bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A study of monocular near‐to‐eye display positions for a navigation task
Authors: Woldegiorgis Bereket Haile , Lin Chiuhsiang Joe , Nuraini Aisyah Iadha
Published: November 2020

Wearable computers with near‐eye‐displays (NEDs) are expected to be fundamental components of the future smart systems, for which several companies are concurrently working. NEDs are designed and commercially available with different display locations; at the top, middle, or bottom of one of the eyes. It is not known how the location of displays and the nature of tasks would influence the comfort of users. In this study, the effects of display positions and the number of turns on visual discomfort of wearing NEDs during navigation tasks were evaluated. The experiment considered four display positions and three number of turns for 2D maze navigation tasks. The eye movement data were recorded by using a Tobii eye tracker, and then blink rates, eye movement velocities, saccades rates, and subjective ratings were analyzed. The results have shown that the blink rates, saccades rate, and eye movement velocities were sensitive to the positions of the displays, where the top‐right was marginally more comfortable display position. However, subjective ratings did not show significant differences. It is concluded that monocular NEDs can be used for shorter duration navigation tasks, with a reasonably acceptable level of visual comfort.
Fabrication of the Polymersomes with Unique and Even Nonequilibrium Morphologies
Authors: Dou Jinkang , Yang Ruiqi , Du Kun , Li Yanran , Huang Xiayun , Chen Daoyong
Published: November 2020

Herein, efficient fabrication of polymersomes that have unique and nonequilibrium morphologies is reported. Starting from preparing big polymeric vesicles sized around 2 µm with a flexible but crosslinkable structure, a controllable morphological transformation process from the vesicles via prolate vesicles and the pearl‐chain‐like structure, which are the two intermediate structures, to vesicle‐end‐capped tubes is conducted. Significantly, each of the intermediates is a regular polymersome and occupies a distinct phase space in the transformation process and thus can be separately processed and prepared. By crosslinking the structures, respectively, regular polymersomes with unique but stable morphologies are fabricated. Furthermore, the 1D polymersomes contain narrow necks. These narrow necks are sensitive to ultrasound vibration and broken by gentle ultrasound treatment to form regular open‐ended tubes and open‐ended vesicles, which are nonequilibrium but stable morphologies and difficult to prepare by existing methods.
A note on approximate controllability of the Hilfer fractional neutral differential inclusions with infinite delay
Authors: Kavitha K. , Vijayakumar V. , Udhayakumar R. , Sakthivel N. , Sooppy Nisar Kottakkaran
Published: November 2020

In this study, we establish the approximate controllability of the Hilfer fractional neutral differential inclusions with infinite delay. The main result of this article is proven by applying some ideas of semigroup theory with fractional order and Dhage's fixed point theorem. Firstly, we prove the approximate controllability of the Hilfer fractional system. Next, we extend our study to the system with nonlocal conditions. Finally, theoretical and practical applications are presented to assist in the effectiveness of our discussion.
Anatomy of the nerves to the teres minor and the long head of the triceps brachii for electromyography
Authors: Kim Mee‐Gang , Hong Eun Ah , Nam Yong Seok , Lee Jong In
Published: November 2020

Background

We investigated the branching pattern and topographic anatomy of the nerves to the teres minor (Tm) and the long head of the triceps brachii (LHT) in relation to reference lines extending between surface landmarks, to identify the innervation patterns of, and the optimal needle placement points within, the Tm and the LHT.

Methods

The anatomical courses of the nerves to the Tm and the LHT were investigated in 37 upper limbs of fresh‐frozen cadavers. Distances from the acromion to nerve penetration points, and crossing points of reference lines with the Tm and LHT were measured in 27 cadaveric upper limbs.

Results

The Tm was innervated by the axillary nerve in all specimens in three patterns, and the LHT was innervated exclusively by the radial nerve. Our dissection and measurements indicate that the midpoint of the reference line from the acromion to the inferior angle of the scapula is the optimal needle insertion point for the Tm. The target point for the LHT appears to be the one‐third point of the reference line from the acromion to the medial epicondyle, or the two‐thirds point of the reference line from the acromion to the axillary fold.

Conclusions

We investigated the branching pattern of the nerves to the Tm and the LHT and propose optimal needle placement points for electromyography of the Tm and LHT.
Ionic Liquid‐Driven Formation of and Cation Exchange in Layered Sulfido Stannates – a CH2 Group Makes the Difference
Authors: Peters Bertram , Möbs Martin , Michel Nick , Tambornino Frank , Dehnen Stefanie
Published: November 2020

Two types of layered sulfido stannates or a molecular cluster compound are obtained upon ionothermal treatment of the simple sulfido stannate salt K4[SnS4] 
 4H2O that is based on binary tetrahedral [SnS4]4− anions. The formation of the respective products, novel compounds (C4C1C1Im)2[Sn3S7] (1 a), (C4C1C2Im)2[Sn3S7] (1 b), and (C4C1C2Im)2[Sn4S9] (2) with layered anionic substructures, or the recently reported compound (C4C1C1Im)4+x[Sn10O4S16(SMe)4][An]x (A) comprising a molecular cluster anion, is controlled by both the choice of the ionic liquid cation and the reaction temperature. We report the scale‐up of the syntheses by a factor of 100 with regard to other reported ionothermal syntheses of related compounds, and a procedure of how to isolate them in phase‐pure form – both being rare observations in chalcogenido stannate chemistry in ionic liquids. Moreover, the synthesis of compound 1 a can be achieved by rapid cation exchange starting out from 1 b, which has not been reported for organic cations in any chalcogenido stannate salt to date.
Microfinance services and socio‐economic welfare of urban households in Sabah, Malaysia
Authors: Solarin Sakiru Adebola , Loke Koh Her , Ramasamy Suganthi A/P , Yen Yuen Yee , Gan Goh Guan
Published: November 2020

This study examines the impact of microfinance services on the socio‐economic welfare of urban households in Sabah, which is considered as the poorest state in Malaysia. The data were collected from recipients of microfinance services through self‐administered questionnaire and were analyzed using Smart Partial Least Squares (PLS). The results of this study show that microcredit, microinsurance, savings, training, and social intermediation service have significant effects on socio‐economic welfare of urban households in Sabah. The empirical findings can be used as a guideline for microfinance institutions to provide the best services that will reduce vulnerability of the households in Sabah. It can also assist the government to provide the best microfinance blueprints in the region.
Synergistic effect of polyimide charring agent and hexaphenoxycyclotriphosphazene on improving fire safety of polycarbonate: High graphitization to strengthen the char layer
Authors: Feng Haisheng , Qian Lijun , Lu Lingang
Published: November 2020

To meet the increasingly stringent requirements for the excellent fire safety, low addition, low cost, and good mechanical properties for polycarbonate (PC), a novel aromatic polyimide (API) charring agent was synthesized and used synergistically with hexaphenoxycyclotriphosphazene (HPCTP) to flame‐retardant (FR) PC. The incorporated API and HPCTP improved FR performance and the fracture toughness of the PC, simultaneously. The 4H‐2A passed the UL94 V‐0 rating with a limited oxygen index of 32.5%. Moreover, the heat release rate of the PC was also suppressed significantly by the dense and strengthening carbon layer. The mechanism of synergistic charring effect of API and HPCTP were analyzed: In the initial and developing stages of combustion (below 450°C), the quenching effect and dilution effect of HPCTP played a major role in flame retardancy; and due to the barrier function of the highly graphitized char layer, the combustion process rapidly enters weakening stages (above 450°C) and finally extinguishes. Moreover, it was founded that API improved the antiimpact performance of PC matrix, which offsets the negative effect of HPCTP on the impact performance of PC matrix.
Effect of nanoclay on the properties of rosin derivative cross‐linked green composite based on chicken feather fiber and modified vegetable oil
Authors: Gogoi Gitashree , Chowdhury Chayanika , Maji Tarun K.
Published: November 2020

Fully biodegradable composites based on waste chicken feather fiber (CF), functionalized epoxidized soybean oil (ESO), rosin derivative and various nanoclay percentages were prepared via compression molding. Rosin derivative was synthesized as a substitute of styrene/divinylbenzene. Nuclear magnetic resonance and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed the synthesized rosin derivatives structures. Delamination and distribution of silicate layers were studied by X‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. Scanning electron microscopy was used to analyse compatibility among modified ESO and rosin. FTIR study revealed the interaction between resin, CF, rosin derivative, and nanoclay. The nanoclay loaded composites showed better mechanical properties than the nanoclay free composite. The thermal stability of nanoclay loaded composites were also found to be enhanced. Composites loaded with nanoclay (3 wt%) revealed the least chemical resistance, volumetric swelling and water vapor uptake capacity.
Microfluidic Synthesis of Semiconductor Materials: Toward Accelerated Materials Development in Flow
Authors: Campbell Zachary S. , Bateni Fazel , Volk Amanda A. , Abdel‐Latif Kameel , Abolhasani Milad
Published: November 2020

Controlled synthesis of semiconductor nano/microparticles has attracted substantial attention for use in numerous applications from photovoltaics to photocatalysis and bioimaging due to the breadth of available physicochemical and optoelectronic properties. Microfluidic material synthesis strategies have recently been demonstrated as an effective technique for rapid development, controlled synthesis, and continuous manufacturing of solution‐processed semiconductor nano/microparticles, due to enhanced parametric control enabling precise tuning of material properties, size, and morphologies. In this review, the basics of microfluidic material synthesis approaches complemented with recent advances in the flow fabrication of metal oxide, chalcogenide, and perovskite semiconductor particles are discussed. Furthermore, advancements in artificial intelligence (AI)‐driven materials–space exploration and accelerated formulation optimization using modular microfluidic reactors are outlined. Finally, future directions for the fabrication of semiconducting materials in flow and the implementation of AI with automated microfluidic reactors for accelerated material discovery and development are presented.
Tailoring of Mechanical Properties of Highly Filled Nano‐Aluminized Propellants by Modifying Binder Polymer Microstructure
Authors: Sanyal Bedabrata , Chakravarthy Satyanarayanan R. , Venkata L. Ramesh Marri , Agnihotri Gaurav , Kumar Verma Deo
Published: November 2020

Use of nano sized aluminium powder in place of micron sized powder leads to increase in specific impulse of solid composite propellants. However, poor mechanical properties of nano‐aluminized propellants prevent their use in actual rocket motors. An attempt has been made here, to improve the mechanical properties by using different HTPB resins having different functionality type distribution. Adjustment of isocyanate to hydroxyl ratio, and ratio of the chain extender, Butane‐diol, to the cross‐linker, Tri‐Methylol‐Propane, had also been tried to investigate their effect on mechanical properties. Nano‐aluminium content in the propellant samples could be raised to the conventional level of 18 % by use of Iso Decyl Pelargonate as plasticizer in place of Dioctyl Adipate. This made the samples at par with the conventional micro‐aluminium propellants, and the experimental results comparable. The microstructural changes of HTPB significantly improved the tensile strength of the nano‐aluminium propellants to 0.65 MPa and break elongation to 17 % respectively. Recorded heat of combustion values are at 5990 J/g. These figures meet industrial tolerance and make the propellant acceptable for use while increasing its specific impulse beyond today's conventional levels. The technology established has potentials to increase nano‐aluminium content further, and augment ballistic properties of solid motors, upholding the required industrial restrictions of rheological and physico‐mechanical parameters.
qFit 3: Protein and ligand multiconformer modeling for X‐ray crystallographic and single‐particle cryo‐EM density maps
Authors: Riley Blake T. , Wankowicz Stephanie A. , de Oliveira Saulo H. P. , van Zundert Gydo C. P. , Hogan Daniel W. , Fraser James S. , Keedy Daniel A. , van den Bedem Henry
Published: November 2020

New X‐ray crystallography and cryo‐electron microscopy (cryo‐EM) approaches yield vast amounts of structural data from dynamic proteins and their complexes. Modeling the full conformational ensemble can provide important biological insights, but identifying and modeling an internally consistent set of alternate conformations remains a formidable challenge. qFit efficiently automates this process by generating a parsimonious multiconformer model. We refactored qFit from a distributed application into software that runs efficiently on a small server, desktop, or laptop. We describe the new qFit 3 software and provide some examples. qFit 3 is open‐source under the MIT license, and is available at https://github.com/ExcitedStates/qfit-3.0.
Effects of pine pollen wall on gut microbiota and biomarkers in mice with dyslipidemia
Authors: Song Xiao , Wang Yali , Guan Rui , Ma Ning , Yin Lei , Zhong Micun , Wang Tong , Shi Lihua , Geng Yue
Published: November 2020

Pinus yunnanensis pollen is rich in various physiological functions. However, whether the pine pollen wall (PW) plays a beneficial role in the body has not been studied. In this work, we have analyzed its effects on the metabolism and gut microbiota of mouse models of dyslipidemia. We found that the intake of pine PW prevents the liver pathologic changes and reduce the concentrations of TNF‐α, IL‐6, TC, and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol. Moreover, it can regulate bile acid and fat metabolism, SCFAs content, and the structure of the gut microbiota. According to the change of carbohydrate metabolites, we speculated that cellulose should be the main component to play the above beneficial role, and sporopollenin cannot be utilized in the intestine. Therefore, we consider this study of great significance as it gives a description of biological effects of the pine PW and paves the road to its use in health products.
Preparation of Ta3N5 Nanosheet by Nitridation of Monolayer Tantalum Oxide Nanosheet
Authors: Hsu Chu‐Wei , Awaya Keisuke , Tsushida Masayuki , Sato Tetsuya , Koinuma Michio , Ida Shintaro
Published: November 2020

Two‐dimensional semiconducting materials have attracted attention as photocatalysts, electrode catalysts and electronic materials. However, preparation of metal nitride nanosheet is still a significant challenge. Here, we show a tantalum nitride (Ta3N5) nanosheet with a thickness of 1.5 nm prepared via tantalum oxide [TaO3]− nanosheet derived from layered rubisium tantalum oxide (RbTaO3). The monolayer tantalum oxide nanosheet was converted to Ta3N5 nanosheet with a [110] preferred orientation in the in‐plane direction during annealing under NH3 gas flow, and showed a photocatalytic activity for H2 evolution under visible light illumination (550 nm). The H2 evolution ratio of the ultrathin Ta3N5 nanosheet was much higher than that of bulk Ta3N5 prepared from Ta2O5 powder, indicating that nanosheet structure suppresses the recombination in the photocatalytic reaction.
Evolution of technical debt remediation in Python: A case study on the Apache Software Ecosystem
Authors: Tan Jie , Feitosa Daniel , Avgeriou Paris , Lungu Mircea
Published: November 2020

In recent years, the evolution of software ecosystems and the detection of technical debt received significant attention by researchers from both industry and academia. While a few studies that analyze various aspects of technical debt evolution already exist, to the best of our knowledge, there is no large‐scale study that focuses on the remediation of technical debt over time in Python projects—that is, one of the most popular programming languages at the moment. In this paper, we analyze the evolution of technical debt in 44 Python open‐source software projects belonging to the Apache Software Foundation. We focus on the type and amount of technical debt that is paid back. The study required the mining of over 60K commits, detailed code analysis on 3.7K system versions, and the analysis of almost 43K fixed issues. The findings show that most of the repayment effort goes into testing, documentation, complexity, and duplication removal. Moreover, more than half of the Python technical debt is short term being repaid in less than 2 months. In particular, the observations that a minority of rules account for the majority of issues fixed and spent effort suggest that addressing those kinds of debt in the future is important for research and practice.
A levels‐of‐approximation approach to seismic design or assessment of beam‐column joints in shear
Authors: Fardis Michael N.
Published: November 2020

Models are proposed for the shear strength of joints, for seismic design or assessment. At first Level‐of‐Approximation, the joint reinforcement and the column axial force are lumped in a single central Tie in the corresponding direction, whose ends are connected through concrete Struts to the two compressed corners of the joint. Concrete strength and Strut widths are independent of strains. At the second Level‐of‐Approximation, any reinforcement is smeared in the volume of the joint and compressive stresses are taken as uniform in a continuous compression field. Concrete strength is taken to decrease with load cycling and increasing transverse tensile strain. As this approach gives zero strength for unreinforced joints without column axial load, a minimum shear strength is added to that from the compression field model. Its magnitude and the reduction in the strength of the compression field with load cycling, as well as the Strut widths for the first Level‐of Approximation, are calibrated using a database of 277 interior and 389 exterior joints tested to shear failure.
Analysis of wind characteristics parameters with the application of lidar and mast
Authors: Sharma Pramod Kumar , Gautam Atul , Warudkar Vilas , Ahmed Siraj , Bhagoria J.L.
Published: November 2020

Different probability distribution functions have been used to characterize wind resource parameters considering uncertainty in wind potential. However, the application of the best distributions functions is still the most challenging task. In the present work, a comparative statistical analysis of wind speed data, collected from mast and lidar for different distribution model using different numerical methods at different heights, has been performed. It also seeks to select the best alternative method among the maximum likelihood method, modified maximum likelihood method, and WAsP. The 2 years (2015 to 2017) met mast wind data, height ranging from 20 to 100 m, are used to perform wind statistical analysis. One‐month wind data are also monitored by lidar (20, 50, 80, 100, 120, 150, 180, 200, and 220 m). Based on the extrapolated met mast wind data at different heights using power law, log law, and Deaves and Harris model, the results were categorized in two ways. In the first part, results indicate that the R2 and root mean square error for wind speed and direction at different observed heights were equal to or higher than 0.95 and 0.1568, respectively, at Dhanuskhkodi, while in the second part, the Deaves and Harris model merely exhibits 2.12% bias, while it is 5.68% for the other extrapolating models in comparison with the power law and log law.
Serious Play: Inflecting the Multicultural Science Education Debate Through and for (Socratic) Dialogue
Authors: Higgins Marc
Published: November 2020

The purpose of this chapter is to differentially revisit themulticultural science education debate, a central curricular location that acts as both a potential entry point and problematic gate-keeping device for Indigenous science to-come, by inflecting it with a potentially less oppositional mode of meaning-making: serious play. Within this debate, it is generally agreed upon that there is a clear moral imperative to respect students from diverse cultural backgrounds within the multicultural science education classroom. However, what constitutes respect and how it is enacted continues to be hotly debated due to differing considerations of “what counts” as science. This has produced two largely incommensurable positions around the inclusion of Indigenous ways-of-living-with-Nature (e.g., ethnoscience, Indigenous science): those who contest its status as scientific knowledge and those who champion it. However, as the process of debate enacted is commonly one of opposition, there is little room for meaning-made across positions. Above and beyond addressing the sources of knowledge that continue to uphold this serious debate, this chapter plays with/in the debate processes as a means of opening these foreclosed spaces in science education as both form and content lead to the excluding, differing, and deferring of Indigenous science to-come.
Tinkering with/in the Multicultural Science Education Debate: Towards Positing An(Other) Ontology
Authors: Higgins Marc
Published: November 2020

The purpose of this chapter is to address the ways in which ontology, as an absent presence, is always already (re)shaping science education. Particularly, this chapter uses and troubles Cobern and Loving’s reminder that attention to ontology is uncommon within the multicultural science education debate. As they call for a (re)consideration of how epistemology aligns with ontology, concluding that knowing nature through WMS is universal and “common sense”, an ethic of deconstructive tinkering—using concepts, categories, and constructs that are uncommon to the context of science education to explore that which is common—is employed herein. Latching onto the binary co-constitution of common and uncommon, and moments in which they vacillate as a lever to (re)open spaces of science education to other meanings (e.g., Indigenous science to-come), Cobern and Loving’s criteria of ontological alignment is unsettled, (re)situating their claim of “common sense” towards (re)opening the logics of the multicultural science education debate.
Positing Cartesianism as an Ontology Within Science Education: Towards a More Response-Able Inheritance with Dr. Frédérique Apffel-Marglin
Authors: Higgins Marc
Published: November 2020

The purpose of this chapter is to archeologically dig into the historicity and operationalization of science education’s ontological inheritance: Cartesianism. Attention is brought to how Cartesianism plays, has played, and will play an active role in the (fore)closure of response-ability. To undertake this work, I draw from a series of expert interviews with Dr. Frédérique Apffel-Marglin that unpack the historical, geographical, political, economic, and religious forces of the “birth of modernity” and reveal the ways in which this “common sense” went from being uncommon to common and continues to persist. In turn, these insights are read, through the multicultural science education debate in order to (re)open the space for responsiveness therein. In thinking with Apffel-Marglin, it is argued that the making common of Cartesianism not only (fore)closes the possible possibilities for responding to Indigenous science to-come, but also to account for and be accountable to the ontology of WMS and what it produces.
Towards Being Wounded by Thought: Indigenous Metaphysics Is (Still) Waiting in the Wings of Science Education
Authors: Higgins Marc
Published: November 2020

The purpose of this concluding chapter is to summarize and synthesize of the book, highlighting the ways in which Indigenous science is(yet-)to-comewithin science education. Following a short musing on conclusions, (fore)closure, and the importance of being wounded by thought, each chapter is revisited to (re)articulate the significance of their contributions with the triple(d) understanding ofto-comeexplored within the book in mind: (a) Indigenous science, in the context of science education, has not yet (wholly) arrived; (b) where and how science education might be (re)opened towards hospitably receiving Indigenous science; and (c) the types of deconstructive practices that support this work. The chapter, and in turn the book, ends with an affirmative message that the potentiality of Indigenous ways-of-living-with-Nature in science education remains, even if not fully actualized; thus, an invitation to continue labouring the space of responsiveness towards Indigenous science.
XcalableACC: An Integration of XcalableMP and OpenACC
Authors: Tabuchi Akihiro , Murai Hitoshi , Nakao Masahiro , Odajima Tetsuya , Boku Taisuke
Published: November 2020

XcalableACC (XACC) is an extension of XcalableMP for accelerated clusters. It is defined as a diagonal integration of XcalableMP and OpenACC, which is another directive-based language designed to program heterogeneous CPU/accelerator systems. XACC has features for handling distributed-memory parallelism, inherited from XMP, offloading tasks to accelerators, inherited from OpenACC, and two additional functions: data/work mapping among multiple accelerators and direct communication between accelerators.
Hybrid-View Programming of Nuclear Fusion Simulation Code in XcalableMP
Authors: Tsugane Keisuke , Boku Taisuke , Murai Hitoshi , Sato Mitsuhisa , Tang William , Wang Bei
Published: November 2020

XcalableMP(XMP) supports a global-view model that allows programmers to define global data and to map them to a set of processors, which execute the distributed global data as a single thread. In XMP, the concept of a coarray is also employed for local-view programming. In this study, we port Gyrokinetic Toroidal Code - Princeton (GTC-P), which is a three-dimensional gyrokinetic PIC code developed at Princeton University to study the microturbulence phenomenon in magnetically confined fusion plasmas, to XMP as an example of hybrid memory model coding with the global-view and local-view programming models. In local-view programming, the coarray notation is simple and intuitive compared with Message Passing Interface (MPI) programming, while the performance is comparable to that of the MPI version. Thus, because the global-view programming model is suitable for expressing the data parallelism for a field of grid space data, we implement a hybrid-view version using a global-view programming model to compute the field and a local-view programming model to compute the movement of particles. The performance is degraded by 20% compared with the original MPI version, but the hybrid-view version facilitates more natural data expression for static grid space data (in the global-view model) and dynamic particle data (in the local-view model), and it also increases the readability of the code for higher productivity.
Parallelization of Atomic Image Reconstruction from X-ray Fluorescence Holograms with XcalableMP
Authors: Kubota Atsushi , Matsushita Tomohiro , Happo Naohisa
Published: November 2020

X-ray fluorescence holography is a three-dimensional middle range local structure analysis method, which can provide three-dimensional atomic images around specific elements within a radius of a few nanometers. Three-dimensional atomic images are reconstructed by applying discrete Fourier transform (DFT) to hologram data. Presently, it takes long time to process this DFT. In this study, the DFT program is parallelized by using a parallel programming language XcalableMP. The DFT process, whose input is 21 holograms data of 179 × 360 points and output is a three-dimensional atomic image of 1923 points, is executed on PC cluster which consists of 8 nodes of Intel Xeon X5660 processors and 96 cores in total and we confirmed that the parallelized DFT execution is 94 times faster than the sequential execution.
N-phenyl-1-naphthylamine (PNA) Accumulates in Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina) Liver Activating the Detoxification Pathway
Authors: Colson Tash-Lynn L. , de Solla Shane R. , Balakrishnan Vimal K. , Toito John , Langlois Valerie S.
Published: November 2020

Substituted phenylamine antioxidants (SPAs) are used in Canadian industrial processes. SPAs, specifically N-phenyl-1-naphthylamine (PNA), have received very little attention despite their current use in Canada and their expected aquatic and environmental releases. There is a research gap regarding the effects of PNA in wildlife; therefore, Chelydra serpentina (common snapping turtle) was studied due to its importance as an environmental indicator species. A chronic experiment was performed using PNA spiked food (0 to 3446 ng/g) to determine its toxicity to juvenile C. serpentina. A significant increase in cyp1a mRNA level was observed in the liver of turtles exposed to 3446 ng/g PNA, suggesting that phase I detoxification is activated in the exposed animals. Additionally, a significant decrease in cyp2b transcript level was observed at the two lowest PNA doses, likely indicating another metabolic alteration for PNA. This study helped determine the molecular effects associated with a PNA exposure in reptiles.
Micro milling of additively manufactured AISI 316L: impact of the layerwise microstructure on the process results
Authors: Greco Sebastian , Kieren-Ehses Sonja , Kirsch Benjamin , Aurich Jan C.
Published: November 2020

In the field of metal additive manufacturing (AM), one of the most used methods is selective laser melting (SLM)—building components layer by layer in a powder bed via laser. The process of SLM is defined by several parameters like laser power, laser scanning speed, hatch spacing, or layer thickness. The manufacturing of small components via AM is very difficult as it sets high demands on the powder to be used and on the SLM process in general. Hence, SLM with subsequent micromilling is a suitable method for the production of microstructured, additively manufactured components. One application for this kind of components is microstructured implants which are typically unique and therefore well suited for additive manufacturing. In order to enable the micromachining of additively manufactured materials, the influence of the special properties of the additive manufactured material on micromilling processes needs to be investigated. In this research, a detailed characterization of additive manufactured workpieces made of AISI 316L is shown. Further, the impact of the process parameters and the build-up direction defined during SLM on the workpiece properties is investigated. The resulting impact of the workpiece properties on micromilling is analyzed and rated on the basis of process forces, burr formation, surface roughness, and tool wear. Significant differences in the results of micromilling were found depending on the geometry of the melt paths generated during SLM.
Gradient forms and strong solidity of free quantum groups
Authors: Caspers Martijn
Published: November 2020

Consider the free orthogonal quantum groups$$O_N^+(F)$$ON+(F)and free unitary quantum groups$$U_N^+(F)$$UN+(F)with$$N \ge 3$$N≥3. In the case$$F = \text {id}_N$$F=idNit was proved both by Isono and Fima-Vergnioux that the associated finite von Neumann algebra$$L_\infty (O_N^+)$$L∞(ON+)is strongly solid. Moreover, Isono obtains strong solidity also for$$L_\infty (U_N^+)$$L∞(UN+). In this paper we prove for general$$F \in GL_N(\mathbb {C})$$F∈GLN(C)that the von Neumann algebras$$L_\infty (O_N^+(F))$$L∞(ON+(F))and$$L_\infty (U_N^+(F))$$L∞(UN+(F))are strongly solid. A crucial part in our proof is the study of coarse properties of gradient bimodules associated with Dirichlet forms on these algebras and constructions of derivations due to Cipriani–Sauvageot.
A refined derived Torelli theorem for Enriques surfaces
Authors: Li Chunyi , Nuer Howard , Stellari Paolo , Zhao Xiaolei
Published: November 2020

We prove that two general Enriques surfaces defined over an algebraically closed field of characteristic different from 2 are isomorphic if their Kuznetsov components are equivalent. We apply the same techniques to give a new simple proof of a conjecture by Ingalls and Kuznetsov relating the derived categories of the blow-up of general Artin–Mumford quartic double solids and of the associated Enriques surfaces.
Machine learning in cardiovascular radiology: ESCR position statement on design requirements, quality assessment, current applications, opportunities, and challenges
Authors: Weikert Thomas , Francone Marco , Abbara Suhny , Baessler Bettina , Choi Byoung Wook , Gutberlet Matthias , Hecht Elizabeth M. , Loewe Christian , Mousseaux Elie , Natale Luigi , Nikolaou Konstantin , Ordovas Karen G. , Peebles Charles , Prieto Claudia , Salgado Rodrigo , Velthuis Birgitta , Vliegenthart Rozemarijn , Bremerich Jens , Leiner Tim
Published: November 2020

Machine learning offers great opportunities to streamline and improve clinical care from the perspective of cardiac imagers, patients, and the industry and is a very active scientific research field. In light of these advances, the European Society of Cardiovascular Radiology (ESCR), a non-profit medical society dedicated to advancing cardiovascular radiology, has assembled a position statement regarding the use of machine learning (ML) in cardiovascular imaging. The purpose of this statement is to provide guidance on requirements for successful development and implementation of ML applications in cardiovascular imaging. In particular, recommendations on how to adequately design ML studies and how to report and interpret their results are provided. Finally, we identify opportunities and challenges ahead. While the focus of this position statement is ML development in cardiovascular imaging, most considerations are relevant to ML in radiology in general.

Key Points

• Development and clinical implementation of machine learning in cardiovascular imaging is a multidisciplinary pursuit.

• Based on existing study quality standard frameworks such as SPIRIT and STARD, we propose a list of quality criteria for ML studies in radiology.

• The cardiovascular imaging research community should strive for the compilation of multicenter datasets for the development, evaluation, and benchmarking of ML algorithms.
Prospective multicentric validation of a novel prediction model for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation
Authors: Schmidt Constanze , Benda Sebastian , Kraft Patricia , Wiedmann Felix , Pleger Sven , Büscher Antonius , Thomas Dierk , Wachter Rolf , Schmid Christian , Eils Roland , Katus Hugo A. , Kallenberger Stefan M.
Published: November 2020

Background

The early recognition of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (pAF) is a major clinical challenge for preventing thromboembolic events. In this prospective and multicentric study we evaluated prediction scores for the presence of pAF, calculated from non-invasive medical history and echocardiographic parameters, in patients with unknown AF status.

Methods

The 12-parameter score with parameters age, LA diameter, aortic root diameter, LV,ESD, TDI Aʹ, heart frequency, sleep apnea, hyperlipidemia, type II diabetes, smoker, ß-blocker, catheter ablation, and the 4-parameter score with parameters age, LA diameter, aortic root diameter and TDI A’ were tested. Presence of pAF was verified by continuous electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring for up to 21 days in 305 patients.

Results

The 12-parameter score correctly predicted pAF in all 34 patients, in which pAF was newly detected by ECG monitoring. The 12- and 4-parameter scores showed sensitivities of 100% and 82% (95%-CI 65%, 93%), specificities of 75% (95%-CI 70%, 80%) and 67% (95%-CI 61%, 73%), and areas under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves of 0.84 (95%-CI 0.80, 0.88) and 0.81 (95%-CI 0.74, 0.87). Furthermore, properties of AF episodes and durations of ECG monitoring necessary to detect pAF were analysed.

Conclusions

The prediction scores adequately detected pAF using variables readily available during routine cardiac assessment and echocardiography. The model scores, denoted as ECHO-AF scores, represent simple, highly sensitive and non-invasive tools for detecting pAF that can be easily implemented in the clinical practice and might serve as screening test to initiate further diagnostic investigations for validating the presence of pAF.

Graphic abstract

Prospective validation of a novel prediction model for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation based on echocardiography and medical history parameters by long-term Holter ECG
Intermittent post-exercise sauna bathing improves markers of exercise capacity in hot and temperate conditions in trained middle-distance runners
Authors: Kirby Nathalie V. , Lucas Samuel J. E. , Armstrong Oliver J. , Weaver Samuel R. , Lucas Rebekah A. I.
Published: November 2020

Purpose

This study investigated whether intermittent post-exercise sauna bathing across three-weeks endurance training improves exercise heat tolerance and exercise performance markers in temperate conditions, compared to endurance training alone. The subsidiary aim was to determine whether exercise-heat tolerance would further improve following 7-Weeks post-exercise sauna bathing.

Methods

Twenty middle-distance runners (13 female; mean ± SD, age 20 ± 2 years, $$V$$
V
O2max 56.1 ± 8.7 ml kg−1 min−1) performed a running heat tolerance test (30-min, 9 km h−1/2% gradient, 40 °C/40%RH; HTT) and temperate (18 °C) exercise tests (maximal aerobic capacity [$$V$$
V
O2max], speed at 4 mmol L−1 blood lactate concentration ([La−]) before (Pre) and following three-weeks (3-Weeks) normal training (CON; n = 8) or normal training with 28 ± 2 min post-exercise sauna bathing (101–108 °C, 5–10%RH) 3 ± 1 times per week (SAUNA; n = 12). Changes from Pre to 3-Weeks were compared between-groups using an analysis of co-variance. Six SAUNA participants continued the intervention for 7 weeks, completing an additional HTT (7-Weeks; data compared using a one-way repeated-measures analysis of variance).

Results

During the HTT, SAUNA reduced peak rectal temperature (Trec; − 0.2 °C), skin temperature (− 0.8 °C), and heart rate (− 11 beats min−1) more than CON at 3-Weeks compared to Pre (all p < 0.05). SAUNA also improved $$V$$
V
O2max (+ 0.27 L−1 min−1; p = 0.02) and speed at 4 mmol L−1 [La−] (+ 0.6 km h−1; p = 0.01) more than CON at 3-Weeks compared to Pre. Only peak Trec (− 0.1 °C; p = 0.03 decreased further from 3-Weeks to 7-Weeks in SAUNA (other physiological variables p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Three-weeks post-exercise sauna bathing is an effective and pragmatic method of heat acclimation, and an effective ergogenic aid. Extending the intervention to seven weeks only marginally improved Trec.
DIALAPP: a prospective validation of a new diagnostic algorithm for acute appendicitis
Authors: Malkomes Patrizia , Edmaier Franziska , Liese Juliane , Reinisch-Liese Alexander , El Youzouri Hanan , Schreckenbach Teresa , Bucher Andreas M. , Bechstein Wolf Otto , Schnitzbauer Andreas A.
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The management of patients with suspected appendicitis remains a challenge in daily clinical practice, and the optimal management algorithm is still being debated. Negative appendectomy rates (NAR) continue to range between 10 and 15%. This prospective study evaluated the accuracy of a diagnostic pathway in acute appendicitis using clinical risk stratification (Alvarado score), routine ultrasonography, gynecology consult for females, and selected CT after clinical reassessment.

Methods

Patients presenting with suspected appendicitis between November 2015 and September 2017 from age 18 years and above were included. Decision-making followed a clear management pathway. Patients were followed up for 6 months after discharge. The hypothesis was that the algorithm can reduce the NAR to a value of under 10%.

Results

A total of 183 patients were included. In 65 of 69 appendectomies, acute appendicitis was confirmed by histopathology, corresponding to a NAR of 5.8%. Notably, all 4 NAR appendectomies had other pathologies of the appendix. The perforation rate was 24.6%. Only 36 patients (19.7%) received a CT scan. The follow-up rate after 30 days achieved 69%, including no patients with missed appendicitis. The sensitivity and specificity of the diagnostic pathway was 100% and 96.6%, respectively. The potential saving in costs can be as much as 19.8 million €/100,000 cases presenting with the suspicion of appendicitis.

Conclusion

The risk-stratified diagnostic algorithm yields a high diagnostic accuracy for patients with suspicion of appendicitis. Its implementation can safely reduce the NAR, simultaneously minimizing the use of CT scans and optimizing healthcare-related costs in the treatment of acute appendicitis.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02627781 (December 2015)
Brandversuch mit E-Fahrzeugen in Tunnelanlagen
Authors: Sturm Peter , Fössleitner Patrik , Fruhwirt Daniel , Schirmer Andrea , Reinwald Bernhard , Kühbacher Manuel , Wenighofer Robert , Heindl Simon , Nöst Thomas , Leonhardt Philip , Hödl Alexander , Krausbar Stefan
Published: November 2020

Im Rahmen des Forschungsprojektes BRAFA werden die Auswirkungen von Bränden von E‑Fahrzeugen auf die Sicherheit von Tunnelbenutzern und die Tunnelinfrastruktur untersucht sowie Methoden zur Bekämpfung von Bränden von E‑Fahrzeugen bewertet. Basis dazu sind Realbrandversuche, die im „Zentrum am Berg“ in geeigneten Versuchstunneln durchgeführt werden. Auf Basis der bis jetzt durchgeführten Realbrandversuche an Batterien und Gesamtfahrzeugen kann geschlossen werden, dass wichtige Parameter wie die Wärmefreisetzungsrate und die zu erwartenden Temperaturen bei E‑Fahrzeugbränden im PKW Bereich ähnlich jener konventionell angetriebener Fahrzeuge sind. Problematisch erscheint jedoch die erhöhte Freisetzung von schädlichen Gasen wie HF und Phosphorsäure sowie die Tatsache, dass Löschversuche mit „üblichen“ Wassermengen nicht zielführend sind. Hier zeigt sich, dass eine effektive Einbringung von Wasser in den unmittelbaren Batteriebereich sehr günstige Auswirkungen auf die Verhinderung/Unterdrückung der thermischen Fortpflanzung des Brandes hat. Im noch verbleibenden Zeitraum des Forschungsprojektes steht eine detaillierte Datenanalyse sowie eine Hochrechnung auf Brandereignisse größerer E‑Fahrzeuge (z. B. Busse) sowie die Einbindung der Ergebnisse in die Tunnelrisikoanalysemodelle an.
Effect of physical activity promotion on adiponectin, leptin and other inflammatory markers in prediabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Jadhav Radhika Aditya , Maiya G. Arun , Hombali Aditi , Umakanth Shashikiran , Shivashankar K. N.
Published: November 2020

Aims

Inflammatory stage in prediabetes is associated with increase in level of adipokines and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Physical activity promotion considered as a first-line therapeutic strategy to treat prediabetes. We have conducted the systematic review and meta-analysis to strengthen the evidence on the impact of physical activity promotion on inflammatory markers in prediabetes.

Methods

Studies were identified using electronic search and manual search techniques by choosing keywords for prediabetes, physical activity and inflammatory marker. Randomized controlled trials on individuals diagnosed with prediabetes and provided intervention in the form of physical activity were included in this review. Adiponectin, leptin, C-reactive protein, interleukin-6 and tumour necrosis factor-α were the considered outcome measures.

Results

Our search retrieved 1,688 citations, 31 full-text articles assessed for eligibility of inclusion. Nine studies satisfied the pre-specified criteria for inclusion. Meta-analysis found that physical activity with or without dietary or lifestyle modification reduces level of leptin (MD−2.11 ng/mL, 95% CI −3.81 – −0.42) and interleukin-6 (MD −0.15 pg/mL, 95% CI −0.25–−0.04). It has no effect on level of adiponectin (MD 0.26 µg/mL, 95% CI −0.42– 0.93), C-reactive protein (MD −0.05 mg/L, 95% CI −0.33–0.23) and tumour necrosis factor-α (MD 0.67 pg/mL, 95% CI −2.56–3.89).

Conclusions

This review suggests that physical activity promotion with dietary and lifestyle modification may reduce the level of leptin and interleukin-6 but are uncertain if there is any effect on levels of adiponectin, C-reactive protein and tumour necrosis factor-α in the individuals with prediabetes.
Numerical simulation of the mechanical behavior of a carbon nanotube bundle
Authors: Mählich Daniel , Eberhardt Oliver , Wallmersperger Thomas
Published: November 2020

Due to their outstanding mechanical properties, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are very promising materials for further applications in the field of lightweight construction. Carbon nanotube fibers, whose structure consists of a multitude of load-bearing carbon nanotube bundles interconnected by threads, are an excellent possibility to utilize these properties as engineering material. In the present research, a new method for the prediction of the mechanical properties of carbon nanotube bundles is presented. Within this, the complex structure is transformed into a simplified model based on suitable assumptions. Several parameters of the bundle are taken into account such as different types of nanotubes and various nanotube lengths. The model is applied to different configurations of carbon nanotube bundles by using a molecular mechanics approach. The interactions between the nanotubes are investigated by analyzing the Lennard–Jones potential in a virtual tensile loading test. For different configurations, the resulting forces and stresses are obtained. The results give a clear insight into the influencing parameters and demonstrate their effect on the mechanical behavior. In conclusion, the present approach is an excellent method to analyze the mechanical behavior of CNT bundles.
On certain classes of $$\mathbf{Sp}(4,\mathbb{R})$$ symmetric $$G_2$$ structures
Authors: Nurowski Paweł
Published: November 2020

We find two different families of $$\mathbf{Sp}(4,\mathbb{R})$$

Sp
(
4
,
R
)

symmetric $$G_2$$

G
2

structures in seven dimensions. These are $$G_2$$

G
2

structures with $$G_2$$

G
2

being the split real form of the simple exceptional complex Lie group $$G_2$$

G
2

. The first family has $$\tau _2\equiv 0$$

τ
2

≡
0

, while the second family has $$\tau _1\equiv \tau _2\equiv 0$$

τ
1

≡

τ
2

≡
0

, where $$\tau _1$$

τ
1

, $$\tau _2$$

τ
2

are the celebrated $$G_2$$

G
2

-invariant parts of the intrinsic torsion of the $$G_2$$

G
2

structure. The families are different in the sense that the first one lives on a homogeneous space $$\mathbf{Sp}(4,\mathbb{R})/\mathbf{SL}(2,\mathbb{R})_l$$

Sp

(
4
,
R
)

/
SL

(
2
,
R
)

l

, and the second one lives on a homogeneous space $$\mathbf{Sp}(4,\mathbb{R})/\mathbf{SL}(2,\mathbb{R})_s$$

Sp

(
4
,
R
)

/
SL

(
2
,
R
)

s

. Here $$\mathbf{SL}(2,\mathbb{R})_l$$

SL

(
2
,
R
)

l

is an $$\mathbf{SL}(2,\mathbb{R})$$

SL
(
2
,
R
)

corresponding to the $$\mathfrak{sl}(2,\mathbb{R})$$

sl
(
2
,
R
)

related to the long roots in the root diagram of $$\mathfrak{sp}(4,\mathbb{R})$$

sp
(
4
,
R
)

, and $$\mathbf{SL}(2,\mathbb{R})_s$$

SL

(
2
,
R
)

s

is an $$\mathbf{SL}(2,\mathbb{R})$$

SL
(
2
,
R
)

corresponding to the $$\mathfrak{sl}(2,\mathbb{R})$$

sl
(
2
,
R
)

related to the short roots in the root diagram of $$\mathfrak{sp}(4,\mathbb{R})$$

sp
(
4
,
R
)

.