bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metabolomics and health: from nutritional crops and plant-based pharmaceuticals to profiling of human biofluids
Authors: Marchev Andrey S. , Vasileva Liliya V. , Amirova Kristiana M. , Savova Martina S. , Balcheva-Sivenova Zhivka P. , Georgiev Milen I.
Published: August 2021

During the past decade metabolomics has emerged as one of the fastest developing branches of “-omics” technologies. Metabolomics involves documentation, identification, and quantification of metabolites through modern analytical platforms in various biological systems. Advanced analytical tools, such as gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC/MS), liquid chromatography–mass spectroscopy (LC/MS), and non-destructive nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, have facilitated metabolite profiling of complex biological matrices. Metabolomics, along with transcriptomics, has an influential role in discovering connections between genetic regulation, metabolite phenotyping and biomarkers identification. Comprehensive metabolite profiling allows integration of the summarized data towards manipulation of biosynthetic pathways, determination of nutritional quality markers, improvement in crop yield, selection of desired metabolites/genes, and their heritability in modern breeding. Along with that, metabolomics is invaluable in predicting the biological activity of medicinal plants, assisting the bioactivity-guided fractionation process and bioactive leads discovery, as well as serving as a tool for quality control and authentication of commercial plant-derived natural products. Metabolomic analysis of human biofluids is implemented in clinical practice to discriminate between physiological and pathological state in humans, to aid early disease biomarker discovery and predict individual response to drug therapy. Thus, metabolomics could be utilized to preserve human health by improving the nutritional quality of crops and accelerating plant-derived bioactive leads discovery through disease diagnostics, or through increasing the therapeutic efficacy of drugs via more personalized approach. Here, we attempt to explore the potential value of metabolite profiling comprising the above-mentioned applications of metabolomics in crop improvement, medicinal plants utilization, and, in the prognosis, diagnosis and management of complex diseases.
Altered metabolic pathways elucidated via untargeted in vivo toxicometabolomics in rat urine and plasma samples collected after controlled application of a human equivalent amphetamine dose
Authors: Hemmer Selina , Wagmann Lea , Meyer Markus R.
Published: August 2021

Amphetamine is widely consumed as drug of abuse due to its stimulating and cognitive enhancing effects. Since amphetamine has been on the market for quite a long time and it is one of the most commonly used stimulants worldwide, to date there is still limited information on its effects on the metabolome. In recent years, untargeted toxicometabolomics have been increasingly used to study toxicity-related pathways of such drugs of abuse to find and identify important endogenous and exogenous biomarkers. In this study, the acute effects of amphetamine intake on plasma and urinary metabolome in rats were investigated. For this purpose, samples of male Wistar rats after a single dose of amphetamine (5 mg/kg) were compared to a control group using an untargeted metabolomics approach. Analysis was performed using normal and reversed phase liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry using positive and negative ionization mode. Statistical evaluation was performed using Welch’s two-sample t test, hierarchical clustering, as well as principal component analysis. The results of this study demonstrate a downregulation of amino acids in plasma samples after amphetamine exposure. Furthermore, four new potential biomarkers N-acetylamphetamine, N-acetyl-4-hydroxyamphetamine, N-acetyl-4-hydroxyamphetamine glucuronide, and amphetamine succinate were identified in urine. The present study complements previous data and shows that several studies are necessary to elucidate altered metabolic pathways associated with acute amphetamine exposure.
The newly synthesized thiazole derivatives as potential antifungal compounds against Candida albicans
Authors: Biernasiuk Anna , Berecka-Rycerz Anna , Gumieniczek Anna , Malm Maria , Łączkowski Krzysztof Z. , Szymańska Jolanta , Malm Anna
Published: August 2021

Recently, the occurrence of candidiasis has increased dramatically, especially in immunocompromised patients. Additionally, their treatment is often ineffective due to the resistance of yeasts to antimycotics. Therefore, there is a need to search for new antifungals. A series of nine newly synthesized thiazole derivatives containing the cyclopropane system, showing promising activity against Candida spp., has been further investigated. We decided to verify their antifungal activity towards clinical Candida albicans isolated from the oral cavity of patients with hematological malignancies and investigate the mode of action on fungal cell, the effect of combination with the selected antimycotics, toxicity to erythrocytes, and lipophilicity. These studies were performed by the broth microdilution method, test with sorbitol and ergosterol, checkerboard technique, erythrocyte lysis assay, and reversed phase thin-layer chromatography, respectively. All derivatives showed very strong activity (similar and even higher than nystatin) against all C. albicans isolates with minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) = 0.008–7.81 µg/mL Their mechanism of action may be related to action within the fungal cell wall structure and/or within the cell membrane. The interactions between the derivatives and the selected antimycotics (nystatin, chlorhexidine, and thymol) showed additive effect only in the case of combination some of them and thymol. The erythrocyte lysis assay confirmed the low cytotoxicity of these compounds as compared to nystatin. The high lipophilicity of the derivatives was related with their high antifungal activity. The present studies confirm that the studied thiazole derivatives containing the cyclopropane system appear to be a very promising group of compounds in treatment of infections caused by C. albicans. However, this requires further studies in vivo.

Key points

• The newly thiazoles showed high antifungal activity and some of them — additive effect in combination with thymol.

• Their mode of action may be related with the influence on the structure of the fungal cell wall and/or the cell membrane.

• The low cytotoxicity against erythrocytes and high lipophilicity of these derivatives are their additional good properties.

Graphical abstract
Repeat Percutaneous Radiofrequency Ablation of T1 Renal Cell Carcinomas is Safe in Patients with Von Hippel–Lindau Disease
Authors: Wessendorf Joel , König Alexander , Heers Hendrik , Mahnken Andreas H.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Patients with Von Hippel-Lindau disease often develop multifocal, metachronous renal cell carcinomas which require therapy. The purpose of this retrospective single-center study is to evaluate the outcomes of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in the treatment of renal cell carcinomas in patients with Von Hippel-Lindau disease.

Materials and Methods

9 patients (4 male, 5 female, 47.9 ± 10.7 y/o) with Von Hippel-Lindau disease underwent 18 CT-guided percutaneous RFA procedures for the treatment 21 renal cell carcinomas (largest diameter: 32.9 ± 8.6 mm, cT1a: 16, cT1b: 5). Seven patients were previously treated either by partial or radical nephrectomy. Technical success, effectiveness, safety, progression-free survival, overall survival and tumor characteristics were analyzed.

Results

All RFA procedures were technically successful without major complications. There were 5 minor complications. No residual or recurrent tumor was seen in the ablation zone during a follow-up of 34.0 ± 18.1 months (0–58 months). No patient required dialysis during follow-up. One patient died after 63 months after the first treatment due to complications from a cerebellar hemangioblastoma. No endpoint was reached for overall or progression-free survival.

Conclusions

The results from this limited case series suggest that RFA of RCCs in patients with VHL is a safe and effective therapy, which can preserve sufficient renal function even after renal surgery.
Correction to: The Bacterial Population of Neutral Mine Drainage Water of Elizabeth’s Shaft (Slovinky, Slovakia)
Authors: Kisková Jana , Perháčová Zuzana , Vlčko Ladislav , Sedláková Jana , Kvasnová Simona , Pristaš Peter
Published: August 2021

The article “The Bacterial Population of Neutral Mine Drainage Water of Elizabeth's Shaft (Slovinky, Slovakia)”, written by Jana Kisková, Zuzana Perháèová, Ladislav Vlèko, Jana Sedláková, Simona Kvasnová and Peter Pristaš, was originally published electronically on the publisher’s internet portal on 12 March 2018 without open access. With the author(s)’ decision to opt for Open Choice the copyright of the article changed on 9 April 2020 to © The Author(s) 2018 and the article is forthwith distributed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits use, sharing, adaptation, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, as long as you give appropriate credit to the original author(s) and the source, provide a link to the Creative Commons licence, and indicate if changes were made. The original article has been corrected.
Ultrasonic velocity profiler applied to explore viscosity–pressure fields and their coupling in inelastic shear-thinning vortex streets
Authors: Tiwari Neetu , Murai Yuichi
Published: August 2021

A method for simultaneous estimation of viscosity and pressure fields in inelastic shear-thinning fluids is developed by means of ultrasound velocity profiling technique (UVP). In the method, equation of continuity, rheological model and pressure Poisson equation are incorporated as data processing sequences for measured velocity distributions. The proposed method is applied to study the vortex street structure formed behind a circular cylinder, which shows viscosity–pressure coupling due to shear-thinning property of fluid. For demonstration, aqueous solution of CMC (carboxy methyl cellulose) of weight concentration of 0.1% is chosen as the working fluid with shear-thinning property. An alternating staggered pattern of low-pressure spots is successfully reconstructed for zero-shear-based Reynolds number, Re = 50–300. We have found that increasing Re resulted in decrease in vortex shedding Strouhal number because of vortex sustainability supported by shear-thinning property.

Graphical abstract
Progressive brachial plexus enlargement in hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis
Authors: Salvalaggio Alessandro , Coraci Daniele , Obici Laura , Cacciavillani Mario , Luigetti Marco , Mazzeo Anna , Pastorelli Francesca , Grandis Marina , Cavallaro Tiziana , Bisogni Giulia , Lozza Alessandro , Gemelli Chiara , Gentile Luca , Russo Massimo , Ermani Mario , Fabrizi Gian Maria , Plasmati Rosaria , De Napoli Federica , Campagnolo Marta , Castellani Francesca , Salvi Fabrizio , Fenu Silvia , Devigili Grazia , Pareyson Davide , Gasparotti Roberto , Rapezzi Claudio , Martinoli Carlo , Padua Luca , Briani Chiara
Published: August 2021

Axonal polyneuropathy is the main feature of hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRv). Nerve morphological abnormalities have been reported, but longitudinal changes have never been assessed. We performed a prospective widespread nerve ultrasound evaluation and nerve cross-sectional area (CSA) was compared with baseline data in both ATTRv patients and pre-symptomatic carriers. Thirty-eight subjects were evaluated (mean follow-up 17.1 months), among them 21 had polyneuropathy while 17 were pre-symptomatic carriers. CSA significantly increased at brachial plexus in both groups (p = 0.008 and p = 0.012) pointing to progressive brachial plexus enlargement as a longitudinal biomarker of both disease progression and disease occurrence in pre-symptomatic carriers.
High-altitude decompression strain can be reduced by an early excursion to moderate altitude while breathing oxygen
Authors: Ånell Rickard , Grönkvist Mikael , Gennser Mikael , Eiken Ola
Published: August 2021

Recent observations suggest that development of venous gas emboli (VGE) during high-altitude flying whilst breathing hyperoxic gas will be reduced by intermittent excursions to moderate altitude. The present study aimed to investigate if an early, single excursion from high to moderate altitude can be used as an in-flight means to reduce high-altitude decompression strain. Ten healthy men were investigated whilst breathing oxygen in a hypobaric chamber under two conditions, once during a 90-min continuous exposure to a simulated cabin altitude of 24,000 ft (High; H) and once during 10 min at 24,000 ft, followed by 30 min at 15,000 ft and by 80 min at 24,000 ft (high–low–high; H–L–H). VGE scores were assessed by cardiac ultrasound, using a 6-graded scale. In H, VGE increased throughout the course of the sojourn at 24,000 ft to attain peak value [median (range)] of 3 (2–4) at min 90, just prior to descent. In H–L–H, median VGE scores were 0 throughout the trial, except for at min 10, just prior to the excursion to 15,000 ft, whence the VGE score was 1.5 (0–3). Thus, an early, single excursion from high to moderate cabin altitude holds promise as an in-flight means to reduce the risk of altitude decompression sickness during long-duration high-altitude flying in aircraft with limited cabin pressurization. Presumably, such excursion acts by facilitating the gas exchange in decompression bubbles from a predomination of nitrogen to that of oxygen.
Through 40,000 years of human presence in Southern Europe: the Italian case study
Authors: Aneli Serena , Caldon Matteo , Saupe Tina , Montinaro Francesco , Pagani Luca
Published: August 2021

The Italian Peninsula, a natural pier across the Mediterranean Sea, witnessed intricate population events since the very beginning of the human occupation in Europe. In the last few years, an increasing number of modern and ancient genomes from the area have been published by the international research community. This genomic perspective started unveiling the relevance of Italy to understand the post-Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) re-peopling of Europe, the earlier phase of the Neolithic westward migrations, and its linking role between Eastern and Western Mediterranean areas after the Iron Age. However, many open questions are still waiting for more data to be addressed in full. With this review, we summarize the current knowledge emerging from the available ancient Italian individuals and, by re-analysing them all at once, we try to shed light on the avenues future research in the area should cover. In particular, open questions concern (1) the fate of pre-Villabruna Europeans and to what extent their genomic components were absorbed by the post-LGM hunter-gatherers; (2) the role of Sicily and Sardinia before LGM; (3) to what degree the documented genetic structure within the Early Neolithic settlers can be described as two separate migrations; (4) what are the population events behind the marked presence of an Iranian Neolithic-like component in Bronze Age and Iron Age Italian and Southern European samples.
Exploring the missing heritability in subjects with hearing loss, enlarged vestibular aqueducts, and a single or no pathogenic SLC26A4 variant
Authors: Smits Jeroen J. , de Bruijn Suzanne E. , Lanting Cornelis P. , Oostrik Jaap , O’Gorman Luke , Mantere Tuomo ,   DOOFNL Consortium, van Dooren M. F. , Kant S. G. , de Gier H. H. W. , Hoefsloot E. H. , van der Schroeff M. P. , Rotteveel L. J. C. , Ropers F. G. , Widdershoven J. C. C. , Hof J. R. , Vanhoutte E. K. , Feenstra I. , Kremer H. , Lanting C. P. , Pennings R. J. E. , Yntema H. G. , Free R. H. , Wassink-Ruiter J. S. Klein , Stokroos R. J. , Smit A. L. , van den Boogaard M. J. , Ebbens F. A. , Maas S. M. , Plomp A. , Goderie T. P. M. , Merkus P. , van de Kamp J. , Cremers Frans P. M. , Roosing Susanne , Yntema Helger G. , de Vrieze Erik , Derks Ronny , Hoischen Alexander , Pegge Sjoert A. H. , Neveling Kornelia , Pennings Ronald J. E. , Kremer Hannie
Published: August 2021

Pathogenic variants in SLC26A4 have been associated with autosomal recessive hearing loss (arHL) and a unilateral or bilateral enlarged vestibular aqueduct (EVA). SLC26A4 is the second most frequently mutated gene in arHL. Despite the strong genotype–phenotype correlation, a significant part of cases remains genetically unresolved. In this study, we investigated a cohort of 28 Dutch index cases diagnosed with HL in combination with an EVA but without (M0) or with a single (M1) pathogenic variant in SLC26A4. To explore the missing heritability, we first determined the presence of the previously described EVA-associated haplotype (Caucasian EVA (CEVA)), characterized by 12 single nucleotide variants located upstream of SLC26A4. We found this haplotype and a delimited V1-CEVA haplotype to be significantly enriched in our M1 patient cohort (10/16 cases). The CEVA haplotype was also present in two M0 cases (2/12). Short- and long-read whole genome sequencing and optical genome mapping could not prioritize any of the variants present within the CEVA haplotype as the likely pathogenic defect. Short-read whole-genome sequencing of the six M1 cases without this haplotype and the two M0/CEVA cases only revealed previously overlooked or misinterpreted splice-altering SLC26A4 variants in two cases, who are now genetically explained. No deep-intronic or structural variants were identified in any of the M1 subjects. With this study, we have provided important insights that will pave the way for elucidating the missing heritability in M0 and M1 SLC26A4 cases. For pinpointing the pathogenic effect of the CEVA haplotype, additional analyses are required addressing defect(s) at the RNA, protein, or epigenetic level.
Rating the incidence of iatrogenic vascular injuries in thoracic and lumbar spine surgery as regards the approach: A PRISMA-based literature review
Authors: Giotta Lucifero Alice , Gragnaniello Cristian , Baldoncini Matias , Campero Alvaro , Savioli Gabriele , Tartaglia Nicola , Ambrosi Antonio , Luzzi Sabino
Published: August 2021

Purpose

To assess the rate, timing of diagnosis, and repairing strategies of vascular injuries in thoracic and lumbar spine surgery as their relationship to the approach.

Methods

PubMed, Medline, and Embase databases were utilized for a comprehensive literature search based on keywords and mesh terms to find articles reporting iatrogenic vascular injury during thoracic and lumbar spine surgery. English articles published in the last ten years were selected. The search was refined based on best match and relevance.

Results

Fifty-six articles were eligible, for a cumulative volume of 261 lesions. Vascular injuries occurred in 82% of instrumented procedures and in 59% during anterior approaches. The common iliac vein (CIV) was the most involved vessel, injured in 49% of anterior lumbar approaches. Common iliac artery, CIV, and aorta were affected in 40%, 28%, and 28% of posterior approaches, respectively. Segmental arteries were injured in 68% of lateral approaches. Direct vessel laceration occurred in 81% of cases and recognized intraoperatively in 39% of cases.

Conclusions

Incidence of iatrogenic vascular injuries during thoracic and lumbar spine surgery is low but associated with an overall mortality rate up to 65%, of which less than 1% for anterior approaches and more than 50% for posterior ones.

Anterior approaches for instrumented procedures are at risk of direct avulsion of CIV. Posterior instrumented fusions are at risk for injuries of iliac vessels and aorta. Lateral routes are frequently associated with lesions of segmental vessels. Suture repair and endovascular techniques are useful in the management of these severe complications.
Merging familiar and new senses to perceive and act in space
Authors: Nardini Marko
Published: August 2021

Our experience of the world seems to unfold seamlessly in a unitary 3D space. For this to be possible, the brain has to merge many disparate cognitive representations and sensory inputs. How does it do so? I discuss work on two key combination problems: coordinating multiple frames of reference (e.g. egocentric and allocentric), and coordinating multiple sensory signals (e.g. visual and proprioceptive). I focus on two populations whose spatial processing we can observe at a crucial stage of being configured and optimised: children, whose spatial abilities are still developing significantly, and naïve adults learning new spatial skills, such as sensing distance using auditory cues. The work uses a model-based approach to compare participants’ behaviour with the predictions of alternative information processing models. This lets us see when and how—during development, and with experience—the perceptual-cognitive computations underpinning our experiences in space change. I discuss progress on understanding the limits of effective spatial computation for perception and action, and how lessons from the developing spatial cognitive system can inform approaches to augmenting human abilities with new sensory signals provided by technology.
Climate effects on US infrastructure: the economics of adaptation for rail, roads, and coastal development
Authors: Neumann James E. , Chinowsky Paul , Helman Jacob , Black Margaret , Fant Charles , Strzepek Kenneth , Martinich Jeremy
Published: August 2021

Changes in temperature, precipitation, sea level, and coastal storms will likely increase the vulnerability of infrastructure across the USA. Using models that analyze vulnerability, impacts, and adaptation, this paper estimates impacts to railroad, roads, and coastal properties under three infrastructure management response scenarios: No Adaptation; Reactive Adaptation, and Proactive Adaptation. Comparing damages under each of these potential responses provides strong support for facilitating effective adaptation in these three sectors. Under a high greenhouse gas emissions scenario and without adaptation, overall costs are projected to range in the $100s of billions annually by the end of this century. The first (reactive) tier of adaptation action, however, reduces costs by a factor of 10, and the second (proactive) tier reduces total costs across all three sectors to the low $10s of billions annually. For the rail and road sectors, estimated costs for Reactive and Proactive Adaptation scenarios capture a broader share of potential impacts, including selected indirect costs to rail and road users, and so are consistently about a factor of 2 higher than prior estimates. The results highlight the importance of considering climate risks in infrastructure planning and management.
Design and analysis of SHE-assisted STT MTJ/CMOS logic gates
Authors: Barla Prashanth , Joshi Vinod Kumar , Bhat Somashekara
Published: August 2021

We have investigated the spin-Hall effect (SHE)-assisted spin transfer torque (STT) switching mechanism in a three-terminal MTJ device developed using p-MTJ (perpendicular magnetic tunnel junction) and heavy metal materials of high atomic number, which possesses large spin–orbit interaction. Using p-MTJ schematic and complementary-metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) logic, we have designed three basic hybrid logic-in-memory structure-based logic gates NOR/OR, NAND/AND, and XNOR /XOR. Then the performances of these hybrid gates are evaluated and the results are compared with the conventional CMOS-based gates in terms of power, delay, power delay product, and device count. From the analysis, it is concluded that SHE-assisted STT MTJ/CMOS logic gates are nonvolatile, consume less power, and occupy a smaller die area as compared to conventional CMOS only logic gates.
Experimental Investigation of Lattice Deformation Behavior in S355 Steel Weldments Using Neutron Diffraction Technique
Authors: Biswal Romali , Mehmanparast Ali , Ganguly Supriyo , Kelleher Joe
Published: August 2021

This study aims to investigate the influence of welding process on the elastic lattice deformation and its effects on fatigue and fracture behavior of S355 G10+M steel, which is widely used in fabrication of offshore wind turbine monopile structures. In situ neutron diffraction measurements were taken on cross-weld test samples at room temperature to monitor the evolution of intergranular strains under static and cyclic loading conditions. Both static and cyclic test results have shown that the {200} orientation exhibits the least load carrying capacity while {211} had the maximum stiffness. The hkl-specific response predicted using Reuss and Kröner model were found to agree well with experimental values obtained for the heat-affected zone for all the orientations; however, discrepancies between the experimental and model predictions have been observed for the base metal and weld metal. Moreover, the microstructural differences between the weld metal and heat-affected zone resulted in the maximum elastic–plastic strain mismatch at the interface of the two regions. The results from this experiment would be useful to understand the role of crystal-specific microstrains and lattice deformation on fatigue and fracture behavior of thick-walled monopile weldments.
Simulation Study of Hatch Spacing and Layer Thickness Effects on Microstructure in Laser Powder Bed Fusion Additive Manufacturing using a Texture-Aware Solidification Potts Model
Authors: Pauza Joseph , Rollett Anthony
Published: August 2021

Microstructure control in the laser powder bed fusion additive manufacturing processes is a topic of major interest because of the submillimeter length scale at which the manufacturing process occurs. The ability to control the process at the melt pool scale allows for microstructure control that few other manufacturing techniques can match. The majority of work on microstructure control has focused on altering laser parameters to control solidification conditions (Ref (R.R. Dehoff, M.M. Kirka, W.J. Sames, H. Bilheux, A.S. Tremsin, L.E. Lowe, and S.S. Babu, Site Specific Control of Crystallographic Grain Orientation through Electron Beam Additive Manufacturing, Mater. Sci. Technol., 2014, 31(8), p 931–938. R. Shi, S.A. Khairallah, T.T. Roehling, T.W. Heo, J.T. McKeown, and M.J. Matthews, Microstructural Control in Metal Laser Powder Bed Fusion Additive Manufacturing Using Laser Beam Shaping Strategy, Acta Mater., 2020, 184, p 284–305, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.actamat.2019.11.053.)). Other machine parameters, besides the laser parameters, have also been shown to affect the microstructure of AM parts (Ref (N. Nadammal, S. Cabeza, T. Mishurova, T. Thiede, A. Kromm, C. Seyfert, L. Farahbod, C. Haberland, J.A. Schneider, P.D. Portella, and G. Bruno, Effect of Hatch Length on the Development of Microstructure, Texture and Residual Stresses in Selective Laser Melted Superalloy Inconel 718, Mater. Des., 2017, 134, p 139–150, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.matdes.2017.08.049. F. Geiger, K. Kunze, and T. Etter, Tailoring the Texture of IN738LC Processed by Selective Laser Melting (SLM) by Specific Scanning Strategies, Mater. Sci. Eng. A, 2016, 661, p 240–246, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.msea.2016.03.036.)). We propose an investigation of the effects of hatch spacing and layer thickness on microstructure development in laser powder bed fusion additive manufacturing. A Monte Carlo Potts model with textured solidification capabilities is used to study the effects of these parameters on a unidirectional scan strategy. The simulation results reveal substantial changes in grain morphology as well as texture. Additionally, EVP-FFT crystal plasticity simulations were performed to evaluate the effect of the microstructural shifts on mechanical response. The conclusions from this work elucidate the effects of these parameters on part microstructure as predicted by the texture-aware solidification Potts model and inform understanding of how bulk texture is predicted by the simulation approach.
Calibrating SECCM measurements by means of a nanoelectrode ruler. The intrinsic oxygen reduction activity of PtNi catalyst nanoparticles
Authors: Tetteh Emmanuel Batsa , Löffler Tobias , Tarnev Tsvetan , Quast Thomas , Wilde Patrick , Aiyappa Harshitha Barike , Schumacher Simon , Andronescu Corina , Tilley Richard D. , Chen Xingxing , Schuhmann Wolfgang
Published: August 2021

Scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM) is increasingly applied to determine the intrinsic catalytic activity of single electrocatalyst particle. This is especially feasible if the catalyst nanoparticles are large enough that they can be found and counted in post-SECCM scanning electron microscopy images. Evidently, this becomes impossible for very small nanoparticles and hence, a catalytic current measured in one landing zone of the SECCM droplet cannot be correlated to the exact number of catalyst particles. We show, that by introducing a ruler method employing a carbon nanoelectrode decorated with a countable number of the same catalyst particles from which the catalytic activity can be determined, the activity determined using SECCM from many spots can be converted in the intrinsic catalytic activity of a certain number of catalyst nanoparticles.
Jurisdiction and Combatant’s Privilege in the MH17 Trial: Treading the Line Between Domestic and International Criminal Justice
Authors: Yanev Lachezar
Published: August 2021

This article focuses on theMH17Trial that is currently underway in the Netherlands, dealing with the shooting down of a civilian aircraft over Eastern Ukraine and the resulting deaths of all 298 persons on board. Two legal questions arising from the prosecutorial strategy to charge the four accused with ‘ordinary’ crimes under the Dutch Criminal Code—instead of with war crimes—are studied here. First, the jurisdictional basis on which the District Court of The Hague is tryingMH17, and its effect on the applicable laws, is examined. It is argued that, contrary to what the Prosecution has submitted, jurisdiction over the killing of the 93 non-Dutch nationals on board of flight MH17 can only be established on the basis of the less known title of delegated (representative) jurisdiction: a conclusion that also brings certain legal requirements. Second, this paper analyzes the way theMH17Prosecutor defined the notion of ‘combatant’s privilege’ under international humanitarian law and his arguments for rejecting a combatant status for the separatist armed forces that shot down flight MH17 over Eastern Ukraine. All this analysis is then used to explain why it was indeed more sensible for the Prosecution to charge the four accused with murder and intentionally causing an aircraft to crash under Dutch criminal law, than with war crimes under international law.
Hybrid high-order semantic graph representation learning for recommendations
Authors: Zheng Canta , Cao Wenming
Published: August 2021

The amount of Internet data is increasing day by day with the rapid development of information technology. To process massive amounts of data and solve information overload, researchers proposed recommender systems. Traditional recommendation methods are mainly based on collaborative filtering algorithms, which have data sparsity problems. At present, most model-based collaborative filtering recommendation algorithms can only capture first-order semantic information and cannot process high-order semantic information. To solve the above issues, in this paper, we propose a hybrid graph neural network model based on heterogeneous graphs with high-order semantic information extraction, which models users and items respectively by learning low-dimensional representations for them. We introduced an attention mechanism to allow the model to understand the corresponding edge weights adaptively. Simultaneously, the model also integrates social information in the data to learn more abundant information. We performed some experiments on related datasets. Our method achieved better results than some current advanced models, which verified the proposed model’s effectiveness.
Effect of Epidural Analgesia on Pelvic Floor Dysfunction at 6 Months Postpartum in Primiparous Women: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Du Jingran , Ye Juntong , Fei Hui , Li Mengxiong , He Juan , Liu Lixiang , Liu Yun , Li Tian
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Epidural analgesia has become a universal intervention for relieving labor pain, and its effect on the pelvic floor is controversial.

Aim

To investigate the effect of epidural analgesia on pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) in primiparous women at 6 months postpartum.

Methods

We performed a prospective cohort study involving 150 primiparous women in preparation for vaginal delivery, with 74 (49.3%) receiving epidural analgesia. Baseline demographic and intrapartum data were collected. At 6 months postpartum, PFD symptoms, including stress urinary incontinence, overactive bladder, defecation disorder, pelvic organ prolapse, and 4 kinds of sexual dysfunction (arousal disorder, low sexual desire, dyspareunia, and orgasm disorder), were evaluated. Pelvic floor muscle (PFM) function and postpartum depression were also assessed. Multivariate logistic regression was applied to identify factors associated with the PFD symptoms affected by epidural analgesia.

Main outcome measure

PFD symptoms and sexual dysfunction were evaluated through Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory-20 (PFDI-20) and Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI-12). PFM function was examined with palpation and surface electromyography (sEMG). Postpartum depression was assessed using Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS).

Results

At 6 months postpartum, women who delivered with epidural analgesia had a higher incidence of dyspareunia (43.2% vs 26.3%, P <0.05) and longer first, second, and total stage of labor durations (P <0.01) than those who without. No significant difference in other PFD symptoms or PFM function was found between the 2 groups (P >0.05). Multivariate logistic regression revealed that epidural analgesia (OR = 3.056, 95% CI = 1.217-7.671) and SDS scores (OR = 1.066, 95% CI = 1.009-1.127) were independent risk factors for dyspareunia.

Conclusion

At 6 months postpartum in primiparous women, epidural analgesia was associated with an increased risk of postpartum dyspareunia and longer labor durations, which deserves attention for rehabilitation after delivery. Future studies with a larger sample size are needed to evaluate the impact of epidural analgesia on other PFD symptoms.
Essentials of Software Testing
Authors: Bierig Ralf , Brown Stephen , Galván Edgar , Timoney Joe
Published: August 2021

Software testing can be regarded as an art, a craft, and a science. The practical, step-by-step approach presented in this book provides a bridge between these different viewpoints. A single worked example runs throughout, with consistent use of test automation. Each testing technique is introduced in the context of this example, helping students see its strengths and weaknesses. The technique is then explained in more detail, providing a deeper understanding of underlying principles. Finally the limitations of each technique are demonstrated by inserting faults, giving learners concrete examples of when each technique succeeds or fails in finding faults. Coverage includes black-box testing, white-box testing, random testing, unit testing, object-oriented testing, and application testing. The authors also emphasise the process of applying the techniques, covering the steps of analysis, test design, test implementation, and interpretation of results. The book's web site has programming exercises and Java source code for all examples.
Antimicrobial de-escalation in patients with high-risk febrile neutropenia: Attitudes and practices of adult hospital care providers
Authors: Gorsline Chelsea A. , Staub Milner B. , Nelson George E. , Nesbitt Whitney J. , Dholaria Bhagirathbhai R. , Satyanarayana Gowri
Published: August 2021

In a survey of adult hospital providers regarding antibiotic use in the treatment of febrile neutropenia, clinical fellows, and pharmacists showed higher comfort levels with early antimicrobial de-escalation compared to hematology-oncology and transplant infectious diseases physicians. These frontline team members are ideal partners to champion antimicrobial stewardship interventions in febrile neutropenia.
Residents’ Concerns Regarding Schools Designated as Evacuation Shelters
Authors: Kawasaki Hiromi , Takeuchi Mika , Rahman Md Moshiur , Yamashita Kotomi
Published: August 2021

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to investigate the perceptions of residents who are knowledgeable about the schools used as shelters.

Methods:

The target group was comprised of teachers and guardians of children enrolled in 4 schools, which were selected in the vicinity of District B, which was severely damaged by heavy rain in 2014. A qualitative descriptive study design was used.

Results:

The number of surveys collected was 1702 (collection rate 62.2%). A total of 1017 clauses were entered, and 85 codes were generated for 7 categories. The guardians and teachers believed that there was a discrepancy between shelter capacity and the real situation; citing a lack of information, and ill preparedness of the schools for disasters as some of the problems. Based on the knowledge and experiences from previous disasters, they responded that there was inadequate management, and evacuees faced difficulty living comfortably in the shelters.

Conclusion:

In order to use school facilities during any disaster, it is important for residents to recognize the need to solve problems, and to work with local governments to support improvements. This realization reveals a sense of ownership of emergency shelters and prevents confusion among residents. Also, this will help people to prepare for disasters and prevent disruption during evacuation.
Our past creates our present: a brief overview of racism and colonialism in Western paleontology
Authors: Monarrez Pedro M. , Zimmt Joshua B. , Clement Annaka M. , Gearty William , Jacisin John J. , Jenkins Kelsey M. , Kusnerik Kristopher M. , Poust Ashley W. , Robson Selina V. , Sclafani Judith A. , Stilson Kelsey T. , Tennakoon Shamindri D. , Thompson Carmi Milagros
Published: August 2021

As practitioners of a historical science, paleontologists and geoscientists are well versed in the idea that the ability to understand and to anticipate the future relies upon our collective knowledge of the past. Despite this understanding, the fundamental role that the history of paleontology and the geosciences plays in shaping the structure and culture of our disciplines is seldom recognized and therefore not acted upon sufficiently. Here, we present a brief review of the history of paleontology and geology in Western countries, with a particular focus on North America since the 1800s. Western paleontology and geology are intertwined with systematic practices of exclusion, oppression, and erasure that arose from their direct participation in the extraction of geological and biological resources at the expense of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). Our collective failure to acknowledge this history hinders our ability to address these issues meaningfully and systemically in present-day educational, academic, and professional settings. By discussing these issues and suggesting some ways forward, we intend to promote a deeper reflection upon our collective history and a broader conversation surrounding racism, colonialism, and exclusion within our scientific communities. Ultimately, it is necessary to listen to members of the communities most impacted by these issues to create actionable steps forward while holding ourselves accountable for the past.
Holocene geo-ecological evolution of Lower Geyser Basin, Yellowstone National Park (USA)
Authors: Schiller Christopher M. , Whitlock Cathy , Brown Sabrina R.
Published: August 2021

Changes in climate and fire regime have long been recognized as drivers of the postglacial vegetation history of Yellowstone National Park, but the effects of locally dramatic hydrothermal activity are poorly known. Multi-proxy records from Goose Lake have been used to describe the history of Lower Geyser Basin where modern hydrothermal activity is widespread. From 10,300 cal yr BP to 3800 cal yr BP, thermal waters discharged into the lake, as evidenced by the deposition of arsenic-rich sediment, fluorite mud, and relatively high δ13Csediment values. Partially thermal conditions affected the limnobiotic composition, but prevailing climate, fire regime, and rhyolitic substrate maintained Pinus contorta forest in the basin, as found throughout the region. At 3800 cal yr BP, thermal water discharge into Goose Lake ceased, as evidenced by a shift in sediment geochemistry and limnobiota. Pollen and charcoal data indicate concurrent grassland development with limited fuel biomass and less fire activity, despite late Holocene climate conditions that were conducive to expanded forest cover. The shift in hydrothermal activity at Goose Lake and establishment of the treeless geyser basin may have been the result of a tectonic event or change in hydroclimate. This record illustrates the complex interactions of geology and climate that govern the development of an active hydrothermal geo-ecosystem.
Determinants of energy intake in Central African populations experiencing nutrition transition
Authors: Amougou Norbert , Pasquet Patrick , Bernard Jonathan Y. , Ponty Amandine , Fotso Martin , Said-Mohamed Rihlat , Cohen Emmanuel
Published: August 2021

Central Africa is experiencing rapid urbanisation, and this situation comes along with changes in food habits and an increased prevalence of obesity and associated health risks. Factors influencing dietary intake among the diverse African populations are not well understood. Our objective was to characterise the dietary intake and their determinants in the two main ethnic groups experiencing nutrition transition in Cameroon, the Bamiléké and the Béti. We sampled Bamiléké (381) and Béti (347) adults living in both rural and urban, collected socio-demographic variables, assessed dietary patterns by using a food portion photographs book to administrate a FFQ and a 24-h dietary recall technique and derived their BMI from measured weight and height. The dietary patterns of Bamiléké people were composed of more energy-dense foods than the Béti people, regardless of the living area. The energy intake (13·8 (sd 4·6)–15·4 (sd 4·8) MJ v. 9·7 (sd 3·5)–11·2 (sd 3·9 MJ) and the obesity (15–29 % v. 5–8 %) were therefore higher in Bamiléké than in Béti, respectively. Multivariable linear regression analyses showed strong associations of both ethnicities (4·02 MJ; P < 0·001), living area (0·21 MJ; P < 0·001) and education (0·59 MJ; P < 0·048) with energy intake, independently of each other and other socio-demographic factors. The ethnicity factor has been characterised as the more important determinant of diet. Our findings provide new insights and perspectives highlighting the importance of anthropological factors when building prevention campaigns against obesity in Central Africa.
Use of otolith morphology and morphometry for species discrimination of megrims Lepidorhombus spp. in the Central Eastern Adriatic Sea
Authors: Ugrin Nika , Škeljo Frane , Ferri Josipa , Krstulović Šifner Svjetlana
Published: August 2021

Sagittal otolith morphology and otolith shape of two megrim species, Lepidorhombus boscii and Lepidorhombus whiffiagonis, were compared using descriptive morphological characters and Wavelet shape coefficients. Differences in otolith shape were examined by linear discriminant analysis (LDA). The first discriminant axis explained 66.6% of the variation between the groups, and the second axis 28.5%. Otolith classification based on LDA showed that in 79.5% of cases an otolith can be correctly classified based only on its shape. Relationships between otolith morphometric parameters (length and width) and fish size (total length) were described by fitting simple linear regression models. For L. boscii the highest positive correlation was found between right otolith width and total body length (R2 = 0.82), and for L. whiffiagonis between left otolith length and total body length (R2 = 0.39).
The Responsibility to Protect: Locating Norm Entrepreneurship
Authors: Stefan Cristina G.
Published: August 2021

As part of the roundtable “The Responsibility to Protect in a Changing World Order: Twenty Years since Its Inception,” this essay examines the issue of norm entrepreneurship as it has been used in conjunction with the Responsibility to Protect (RtoP), twenty years after the emergence of The Responsibility to Protect report produced by the International Commission on Intervention and State Sovereignty (ICISS). It examines norm entrepreneurs with enough drive, motivation, and resources to keep RtoP on the international agenda in a changing world order, after Western middle powers, such as Canada and some European Union member states, had previously acted as indispensable norm entrepreneurs. An examination of both Western and non-Western entrepreneurship efforts to date reveals three key observations. First, RtoP champions are now facing additional challenges in today's transitional global order, where nationalistic foreign policy agendas are replacing liberal agendas, such as RtoP. Second, the drive and adaptability of non-Western norm entrepreneurs with regional ambitions mean that small states can emerge as rather-unexpected RtoP champions. Third, giving non-Western states a visible regional or international platform allows them to display leadership in reframing prevention under the RtoP framework. The last two observations point to the increasing role of non-Western states in global governance and in the promotion of prevention measures to protect the most vulnerable, which in turn increases the legitimacy of the RtoP norm itself.
The Responsibility to Protect in a Changing World Order: Twenty Years since Its Inception
Authors: Ignatieff Michael
Published: August 2021

This introduction to the roundtable “The Responsibility to Protect in a Changing World Order: Twenty Years since Its Inception” argues that the geostrategic configuration that made the responsibility to protect (RtoP) possible has changed beyond recognition in the twenty years since its inception.
Implementation of a regulatory food policy to reduce availability of energy-dense foods in Costa Rican high schools
Authors: Jensen Melissa L , Gonzalez Wendy , Bolaños-Palmieri Carolina , Monge-Rojas Rafael , Frongillo Edward A
Published: August 2021

Objective:

To assess the extent to which mandatory Guidelines to improve the school food environment were being implemented in Costa Rican high schools and to explore the perspectives of key policy actors towards the Guidelines.

Design:

Semi-structured interviews and site observations. Interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim and imported to NVivo 12 for analysis. Inductive and deductive themes were identified, and elements of the RE-AIM framework and the social process framework were used when classifying these themes.

Setting:

Sixteen public high schools in San José, Costa Rica.

Participants:

High school principal and kiosk concessionaires

Results:

Products that did not adhere to the Guidelines were still widely available in schools, and amongst the most prevalent challenges to implementation that emerged from our interviews, were a lack of understanding of the policy content, a lack of monitoring and accountability, and competing values amongst actors which affected their views on the role that the school must have in offering a healthy food environment.

Conclusion:

Most products offered in high schools did not meet the criteria required by the mandatory Guidelines, and several contextual factors were found to influence implementation. Strengthening the implementation of the Costa Rican Guidelines will require further actions at the governmental and school levels.