bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kinetics and morphologies in polymerization‐induced cooperative assembly: a computer simulation investigation
Authors: Lu Hui , Song Wen‐Yuan , Zou Ying‐Yi , Xu Wei‐Shao , Yan Yu‐Dou , Liu Hong , Ma Li‐Jun
Published: June 2021

In the last decade, polymerization‐induced self‐assembly (PISA) has emerged to be a quite popular technique for preparing a variety of nanoassembly structures in a selective solvent. As a special technique of PISA, polymerization‐induced cooperative assembly (PICA) is believed to be able to produce more variable nanostructures and its ways of regulation seem more flexible. The process of PICA is studied systematically with a simulation method for discovering possible ways of regulation of morphologies. We find that the existence of solvophobic homopolymers yields a ‘chain growth retarding effect’, which effectively slows down the reaction kinetics of the polymerization. Besides proving the transition from lower‐order morphologies to higher‐order morphologies as reported in experiments, we also find a novel transition from higher‐order morphologies to lower‐order morphologies, as a result of the self‐adaptation behavior of the system. For the first time, we demonstrate that this behavior is able to be well described as a kind of inverse flip‐flop process of vesicle structures to thermodynamically stable micelle structures. We also find that the obvious contrast of length between the solvophilic macro‐chain transfer agents and solvophobic blocks is beneficial to the emergence of plentiful kinds of structures. The results of this study are helpful for understanding the crucial factors for precisely regulating the morphologies in PICA, as well as guiding the way to improve experimental technologies. © 2021 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Grafting for managing vegetable crop pests
Authors: Thies Judy A
Published: June 2021

Nematode and disease resistant rootstocks have been developed for many vegetable crops including tomato, eggplant, melon, watermelon, and cucumber and are being utilized by an increasing number of growers. Grafting commercially desirable vegetable scions on nematode and disease resistant rootstocks has been significantly stimulated by the need for an alternative to banned soil fumigation with methyl bromide, which had been the primary method for managing soil‐borne nematodes, diseases, and weeds. Rootstocks resistant to root‐knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) and diseases including Fusarium wilt, Fusarium crown and root rot, Verticillium wilt, bacterial wilt, Southern blight, and sudden wilt have been developed and many are available commercially. New technologies such as transcriptomics, identification of differentially expressed genes, transgene rootstocks, and RNAi silencing are being used in the development of vegetable rootstocks which are resistant to pests, salt tolerant, and heat and cold tolerant. Overall, grafting has proven to be a successful and environmentally safe method for managing root‐knot nematodes and soil‐borne diseases by reducing infection, disease development, and inoculum build‐up in the soil, which is especially important for growth of healthy subsequent crops. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Population structure and insecticide resistance status of Tuta absoluta populations from Turkey
Authors: İnak Emre , Özdemir Esengül , Atış Abdullah Emre , Randa Zelyüt Filiz , İnak Arda , Demir Ünver , Roditakis Emmanouil , Vontas John
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

Tuta absoluta is a devastating pest in tomato production areas worldwide. After its first introduction to Turkey in 2009, it quickly became the major pest of tomato‐growing areas. Although some biocontrol agents have been used, especially in greenhouses, the main control of T. absoluta relies heavily on chemical insecticides. However, failure in chemical control has often been reported due to resistance development. In this study, we investigated (i) the population structure of 22 T. absoluta populations across Turkey by analysing haplotypes, based on the cytochrome oxidase subunit I gene; (ii) the efficacy of three registered insecticides from different classes (metaflumizone, chlorantraniliprole and spinosad) in real field‐greenhouse conditions; and (iii) the geographic distribution of target‐site mutations associated with insecticide resistance.

RESULTS

The efficacy of spinosad was higher than that of chlorantraniliprole and metaflumizone in the greenhouse trials, as documented by the mortality rates obtained, up to 14 days post application. Known resistance mutations in ryanodine receptors (RyR) (i.e. the I4790M/K and G4946E), nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (G275E), acetylcholinesterases (A201S) and voltage‐gated sodium channels (F1845Y and V1848I) were found at various frequencies across the populations genotyped. The I4790K diamide resistance mutation in the RyR has been reported for the first time in T. absoluta populations. Although a total of eight haplotypes were found, the overall mean genetic distance was lower than 0.001, indicating the high genetic homogeneity among Turkish T. absoluta populations.

CONCLUSION

The results will contribute to design area‐wide resistance management programs in T. absoluta control in Turkey. However, more monitoring studies are needed to implement evidence‐based insecticide resistance management strategies in the frame of integrated pest management. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Ecology and biology of the parasitoid Trechnites insidiosus and its potential for biological control of pear psyllids
Authors: Tougeron Kévin , Iltis Corentin , Renoz François , Albittar Loulou , Hance Thierry , Demeter Sébastien , Le Goff Guillaume J
Published: June 2021

Pear cultivation accounts for a large proportion of worldwide orchards, but its sustainability is controversial because it relies on intensive use of pesticides. It is therefore crucial and timely to find alternative methods to chemical control in pear orchards. The psyllids Cacopsylla pyri and Cacopsylla pyricola are the most important pests of pear trees in Europe and North America, respectively, because they infest all commercial varieties, causing damage directly through sap consumption or indirectly through the spread of diseases. A set of natural enemies exists, ranging from generalist predators to specialist parasitoids. Trechnites insidiosus (Crawford) is undoubtedly the most abundant specialist parasitoid of psyllids. In our literature review, we highlight the potential of this encyrtid species as a biological control agent of psyllid pests by first reviewing its biology and ecology, and then considering its potential at regulating psyllids. We show that the parasitoid can express fairly high parasitism rates in orchards, and almost perfectly matches the phenology of its host and is present early in the host infestation season, which is an advantage for controlling immature stages of psyllids. We propose new research directions and innovative approaches that would improve the use of T. insidiosus in integrated pest management strategies in the future, regarding both augmentative and conservation biocontrol. We conclude that T. insidiosus has many advantages and should be included as part of integrated biological control strategies of pear psyllids, along with predators, in‐field habitat conservation, and the rational use of compatible chemicals. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Non‐Mendelian inheritance of gene amplification‐based resistance to glyphosate in Hordeum glaucum (barley grass) from South Australia
Authors: Adu‐Yeboah Patricia , Malone Jenna M , Gill Gurjeet , Preston Christopher
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

Hordeum glaucum Steud. is an important grass weed species in South Australia that has evolved resistance to glyphosate. This study investigated the mode of inheritance of glyphosate resistance in this species.

RESULTS

Hand‐pollination of glyphosate susceptible and resistant populations generated two F1 individuals, selfed to yield F2 progenies. In dose–response experiments, the F2 progenies showed intermediate response between the two parent populations. High variation in EPSPS gene copies was observed among F2 individuals, with some individuals possessing more gene copies than the resistant parent population. No evidence of a Mendelian single‐gene pattern of inheritance was observed.

CONCLUSION

Inheritance of gene amplification in H. glaucum is non‐Mendelian. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Ac106/107 affects production of infectious progeny BV by regulating transcription of late viral genes and host cell energy metabolism
Authors: Wang Jingli , Li Ke , Fu Yuejun
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

AcMNPV is a model organism of baculovirus, and Spodoptera frugiperda is one of its hosts. Disclosing the role of ac106/107 in AcMNPV infecting Spodoptera frugiperda 9 (Sf9) cells is of great significance for modifying AcMNPV as a microbial insecticide. This work constructed recombinant baculovirus that knocking out, repairment and overexpression of ac106/107 and explored the effects of Ac106/107 on the proliferation of progeny viruses. Moreover, the potential mechanism and targets of ac106/107 were further revealed.

RESULTS

First, compared with the Bacmid‐EGFP transfection group, the progeny virus does not proliferate after knocking out of ac106/107, and the proliferation ability increases by 14.5% at 72 h post transfection (h p.t.) when overexpression of ac106/107. However, knockout, repairment and overexpression of ac106/107 have no effect on viral DNA replication. Secondly, Ac106/107‐EGFP was located in the cytoplasm and nucleus. Transcription level of late viral genes and viral RNA polymerase subunit genes in the Bacmidac106/107KO‐EGFP transfection group and Bacmid‐Ac106/107‐EGFP transfection group was reduced and increased, respectively. Thirdly, AcMNPV would increase the glucose utilization and lactate consumption of the host Sf9 cells, and Bacmidac106/107KO‐EGFP transfection group had lower glucose consumption and lactic acid accumulation than Bacmid‐EGFP, Bacmidac106/107KO ‐Ac106/107(rep)‐EGFP and Bacmid‐Ac106/107‐EGFP transfection groups.

CONCLUSION

Ac106/107 can enter the nucleus and affect transcription of viral RNA polymerase subunit genes, which in turn affects the transcription of late genes, and ultimately affects virus proliferation and energy metabolism in host cells. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Low glyphosate doses change reproduction and produce tolerant offspring in dense populations of Hordeum vulgare
Authors: Belz Regina G , Sinkkonen Aki
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

Low toxin doses that do not affect mean responses in plant populations can still change the growth of subpopulations. Studies covering vegetative stages ascribed fast‐growing plants higher thresholds for growth stimulation and inhibition, compared with the rest of the population. We hypothesized that such selective effects also play a role after reproduction; that is, the offspring of glyphosate‐treated tolerant, fast‐growing phenotypes is more tolerant than the offspring of untreated plants. An experimental, high‐density barley population was exposed to a range of glyphosate concentrations in the greenhouse, and reproduction and final growth were analyzed for selective effects. Therefore, F0, F1 treated and F1 non‐treated offspring were re‐exposed to glyphosate.

RESULTS

Low doses of glyphosate inhibited the growth and reproduction of slow‐growing plants at concentrations that did not change the population mean. Concentrations that inhibited average‐sized plants hormetically increased the biomass and seed yield of fast‐growing plants. Compared with F0 and F1 non‐treated offspring, F1‐treated offspring from hormetically stimulated fast‐growing plants were more glyphosate tolerant. Hence, a pesticide can shape the reproductive pattern of a plant population and alter offspring tolerance at concentrations that have no effect on average yield.

CONCLUSIONS

Toxin levels that do not change the population mean still alter the reproductive output of individuals. Sensitive phenotypes suffer, whereas the reproduction of tolerant phenotypes is boosted compared with toxin‐free conditions. Because glyphosate is one of the leading herbicides in the world, tolerant phenotypes may benefit from current agricultural practices. If these results apply to other toxicants, low toxin doses may increase the fitness of tolerant phenotypes in a way not previously anticipated. © 2021 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Cumulative live birth rate according to the number of receiving governmental subsidies for assisted reproductive technology in Saitama Prefecture, Japan: A retrospective study using individual data for governmental subsidies
Authors: Jwa Seung Chik , Ishihara Osamu , Kuwahara Akira , Saito Kazuki , Saito Hidekazu , Terada Yukihiro , Kobayashi Yasuki , Maeda Eri
Published: June 2021

Purpose

We investigated the cumulative live birth rate (CLBR) in women receiving governmental subsidies for assisted reproductive technology (ART) in Saitama Prefecture, Japan.

Methods

Women who applied for subsidies from Saitama Prefectural Government for the first time in 2016 were enrolled and followed up until the end of 2017. Treatment information, including live birth, was obtained from the Japanese ART registry by linking it with unique identification numbers for treatment. Patients’ factors associated with having a live birth were investigated.

Results

Of 1,072 women (2,513 applications), 495 (46.2%) had a live birth with 8 (1.6%) twin pregnancies. The CLBR over six subsidized cycles was 53.7% for women aged <40 years, and 17.2% over three subsidized cycles for women 40‐42 years; highest among women <35 years (58.4%), followed by those aged 35‐39 years (49.3%). Multivariate analysis revealed patient age as the only independent factor for having a live birth.

Conclusions

The CLBR of women receiving subsidies for ART was greatest in women aged <35 years. Effective policies for promoting ART among younger couples who seek infertility treatment are essential.
The role of procedural rationality in debiasing acquisition decisions of overconfident CEOs
Authors: Pavićević Stevo , Keil Thomas
Published: June 2021

Research Summary

In corporate acquisitions, overconfident chief executive officers (CEOs) often make biased decisions, subsequently paying unjustifiably high acquisition premiums. We investigate the predeal process in which the acquisition premium is decided upon and, drawing from procedural rationality theory, argue that the pursuit of greater procedural rationality through slow‐paced predeal processes reduces the tendency of overconfident CEOs to inflate acquisition premiums. The empirical results based on a sample of acquisitions involving publicly held US firms show that overconfident CEOs tend to pay high acquisition premiums, replicating earlier findings of such a relationship. More importantly, the results show that the tendency of overconfident CEOs to overpay for acquisitions decreases under conditions in which the predeal processes are slower in pace.

Managerial Summary

CEOs often exhibit excessively high levels of confidence in their ability to make successful corporate acquisitions. Driven by the belief in their ability, overconfident CEOs often end up overpaying for acquisitions. Our study provides suggestive evidence that setting a slow acquisition process pace is an important prerequisite for an acquiring firm and its board of directors to attenuate the inflating effect of CEO overconfidence on acquisition premiums. Our arguments and results imply that boards of directors should slow the pace of predeal acquisition processes if their CEO is exhibiting signs of overconfidence.
The Most Invisible Maternal Experience? Analysing How Maternal Regret Is Discussed in Finland
Authors: Sihto Tiina , Mustosmäki Armi
Published: June 2021

In Finland, becoming a mother is often constructed as an individual choice that ultimately leads to personal fulfilment and happiness, despite the occasional ‘negative’ feelings associated with motherhood such as exhaustion, frustration and tiredness. In this cultural atmosphere, maternal regret continues to be a subject that is hidden, forbidden and rarely scrutinised. It is perhaps surprising that in one of the world’s most gender egalitarian countries, which is also perceived to be one of the best countries in which to be a mother, women still testify that motherhood is limited to survival. We argue that, somewhat paradoxically, discussing the negative emotions of motherhood might be particularly difficult in a relatively gender egalitarian society, where family policies are (by international comparison) fairly comprehensive and where becoming a mother is strongly constructed as a ‘free choice’. These discourses often hide the fact that parenthood in Finland is still extremely gendered. Finland’s masculine work culture with long working hours, the tendency for mothers and fathers not to take equal parental leave periods, and the cuts to welfare state services for families all contribute to the gendered division of parenthood. What are rarely discussed in connection with the struggles of mothering are political demands to improve gender equality. This chapter analyses discussion of maternal regret on an anonymous Finnish online discussion board. In comments from regretful mothers, motherhood is constructed as all-consuming, draining work. Hiding regret, especially from children, is seen as essential, as these mothers fear that their lack of ‘correct’ feelings will have adverse effects on their children. In comments responding to these regretful mothers, disbelief is a recurring theme with commenters suggesting that regretful mothers have misrecognised self-inflicted exhaustion or postnatal depression as regret. Such individualising responses depoliticise regret, contributing to the maintenance of taboos around motherhood.
International Responses to Regretting Motherhood
Authors: Heffernan Valerie , Stone Katherine
Published: June 2021

Recent debates about maternal regret, prompted by the publication of Israeli sociologist Orna Donath’s (2015) research with mothers who admit to regretting their motherhood, have manifested differently in different cultural contexts. This chapter situates Tiina Sihto and Armi Mustosmäki’s analysis of a discussion of regret among contributors to an online forum for mothers in Finland (see Chap.10.1007/978-981-16-1174-2_10) within the international context by comparing the Finnish discussion to similar media debates in Spain and the Anglophone countries. Our analysis reveals that while the idea that a woman might regret her motherhood is more readily accepted in countries where institutional support for mothers is lacking, there is a general acceptance that the inordinate pressures placed on mothers in neoliberal societies to negotiate the competing demands of family and paid employment make it inevitable that some women will experience regret. Moreover, we find evidence that the open conversation about regret triggered by Donath’s research is perceived as a further step towards destabilizing traditional attitudes towards gender roles.
Cytochrome P450-dependent biotransformation capacities in embryonic, juvenile and adult stages of zebrafish (Danio rerio)—a state-of-the-art review
Authors: Loerracher Ann-Kathrin , Braunbeck Thomas
Published: June 2021

Given the strong trend to implement zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos as translational model not only in ecotoxicological, but also toxicological testing strategies, there is an increasing need for a better understanding of their capacity for xenobiotic biotransformation. With respect to the extrapolation of toxicological data from zebrafish embryos to other life stages or even other organisms, qualitative and quantitative differences in biotransformation pathways, above all in cytochrome P450-dependent (CYP) phase I biotransformation, may lead to over- or underestimation of the hazard and risk certain xenobiotic compounds may pose to later developmental stages or other species. This review provides a comprehensive state-of-the-art overview of the scientific knowledge on the development of the CYP1-4 families and corresponding phase I biotransformation and bioactivation capacities in zebrafish. A total of 68 publications dealing with spatiotemporal CYP mRNA expression patterns, activities towards mammalian CYP-probe substrates, bioactivation and detoxification activities, as well as metabolite profiling were analyzed and included in this review. The main results allow for the following conclusions: (1) Extensive work has been done to document mRNA expression of CYP isoforms from earliest embryonic stages of zebrafish, but juvenile and adult zebrafish have been largely neglected so far. (2) There is insufficient understanding of how sex- and developmental stage-related differences in expression levels of certain CYP isoforms may impact biotransformation and bioactivation capacities in the respective sexes and in different developmental stages of zebrafish. (3) Albeit qualitatively often identical, many studies revealed quantitative differences in metabolic activities of zebrafish embryos and later developmental stages. However, the actual relevance of age-related differences on the outcome of toxicological studies still needs to be clarified. (4) With respect to current remaining gaps, there is still an urgent need for further studies systematically assessing metabolic profiles and capacities of CYP isoforms in zebrafish. Given the increasing importance of Adverse Outcome Pathway (AOP) concepts, an improved understanding of CYP capacities appears essential for the interpretation and outcome of (eco)toxicological studies.
Correction to: The explosive trinitrotoluene (TNT) induces gene expression of carbonyl reductase in the blue mussel (Mytilus spp.): a new promising biomarker for sea dumped war relicts?
Authors: Strehse Jennifer S. , Brenner Matthias , Kisiela Michael , Maser Edmund
Published: June 2021

A correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00204-021-03088-y
New insights into the mechanisms underlying 5-fluorouracil-induced intestinal toxicity based on transcriptomic and metabolomic responses in human intestinal organoids
Authors: Rodrigues Daniela , de Souza Terezinha , Coyle Luke , Di Piazza Matteo , Herpers Bram , Ferreira Sofia , Zhang Mian , Vappiani Johanna , Sévin Daniel C. , Gabor Attila , Lynch Anthony , Chung Seung-Wook , Saez-Rodriguez Julio , Jennen Danyel G. J. , Kleinjans Jos C. S. , de Kok Theo M.
Published: June 2021

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is a widely used chemotherapeutical that induces acute toxicity in the small and large intestine of patients. Symptoms can be severe and lead to the interruption of cancer treatments. However, there is limited understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying 5-FU-induced intestinal toxicity. In this study, well-established 3D organoid models of human colon and small intestine (SI) were used to characterize 5-FU transcriptomic and metabolomic responses. Clinically relevant 5-FU concentrations for in vitro testing in organoids were established using physiologically based pharmacokinetic simulation of dosing regimens recommended for cancer patients, resulting in exposures to 10, 100 and 1000 µM. After treatment, different measurements were performed: cell viability and apoptosis; image analysis of cell morphological changes; RNA sequencing; and metabolome analysis of supernatant from organoids cultures. Based on analysis of the differentially expressed genes, the most prominent molecular pathways affected by 5-FU included cell cycle, p53 signalling, mitochondrial ATP synthesis and apoptosis. Short time-series expression miner demonstrated tissue-specific mechanisms affected by 5-FU, namely biosynthesis and transport of small molecules, and mRNA translation for colon; cell signalling mediated by Rho GTPases and fork-head box transcription factors for SI. Metabolomic analysis showed that in addition to the effects on TCA cycle and oxidative stress in both organoids, tissue-specific metabolic alterations were also induced by 5-FU. Multi-omics integration identified transcription factor E2F1, a regulator of cell cycle and apoptosis, as the best key node across all samples. These results provide new insights into 5-FU toxicity mechanisms and underline the relevance of human organoid models in the safety assessment in drug development.
Serotonin involvement in okadaic acid-induced diarrhoea in vivo
Authors: Louzao M. Carmen , Costas Celia , Abal Paula , Suzuki Toshiyuki , Watanabe Ryuichi , Vilariño Natalia , Carrera Cristina , Boente-Juncal Andrea , Vale Carmen , Vieytes Mercedes R. , Botana Luis M.
Published: June 2021

The consumption of contaminated shellfish with okadaic acid (OA) group of toxins leads to diarrhoeic shellfish poisoning (DSP) characterized by a set of symptoms including nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. These phycotoxins are Ser/Thr phosphatase inhibitors, which produce hyperphosphorylation in cellular proteins. However, this inhibition does not fully explain the symptomatology reported and other targets could be relevant to the toxicity. Previous studies have indicated a feasible involvement of the nervous system. We performed a set of in vivo approaches to elucidate whether neuropeptide Y (NPY), Peptide YY (PYY) or serotonin (5-HT) was implicated in the early OA-induced diarrhoea. Fasted Swiss female mice were administered NPY, PYY(3–36) or cyproheptadine intraperitoneal prior to oral OA treatment (250 µg/kg). A non-significant delay in diarrhoea onset was observed for NPY (107 µg/kg) and PYY(3–36) (1 mg/kg) pre-treatment. On the contrary, the serotonin antagonist cyproheptadine was able to block (10 mg/kg) or delay (0.1 and 1 mg/kg) diarrhoea onset suggesting a role of 5-HT. This is the first report of the possible involvement of serotonin in OA-induced poisoning.
Plenty of big projections imply big pieces of Lipschitz graphs
Authors: Orponen Tuomas
Published: June 2021

I prove that closed n-regular sets $$E \subset {\mathbb {R}}^{d}$$

E
⊂

R

d

with plenty of big projections have big pieces of Lipschitz graphs. In particular, these sets are uniformly n-rectifiable. This answers a question of David and Semmes from 1993.
Midtrophic fish feeding modes at the poles: an ecomorphological comparison of polar cod (Boreogadus saida) and Antarctic silverfish (Pleuragramma antarctica)
Authors: Carlig Erica , Christiansen Jørgen S. , Di Blasi Davide , Ferrando Sara , Pisano Eva , Vacchi Marino , O’Driscoll Richard L. , Ghigliotti Laura
Published: June 2021

The polar cod (Boreogadus saida) and the Antarctic silverfish (Pleuragramma antarctica) are pelagic fish endemic to the Arctic and Antarctica sea, respectively. Both species are abundant and play a central role as midtrophic wasp-waist species in polar ecosystems. Due to their biological and ecological characteristics (small size, complex life histories, relatively short generation cycles, movement capability, planktivorous diet, and importance as prey), the polar cod and the Antarctic silverfish are potentially good sentinels of ecosystem change. Changes in polar zooplankton communities are well documented. How changes impact ecosystems as a whole largely depend on the degree of diet specialization and feeding flexibility of midtrophic species. Here, we provide the ecomorphological characterization of polar cod and Antarctic silverfish feeding performances. A comparative functional ecology approach, based on the analysis of morpho-anatomical traits, including calculation of suction index and mechanical advantage in jaw closing, was applied to profile the feeding modes and flexibility of the two species. Ecomorphological evidence supports differences in food acquisition: the polar cod appears able to alternate particulate ram-suction feeding to a pump filter feeding, and the Antarctic silverfish results be both a particulate ram and a tow-net filter feeder. Both species exhibit opportunistic feeding strategies and appear able to switch feeding mode according to the abundance and size of the available prey, which is a clue of potential resilience to a changing environment.
High spatial resolution photo mosaicking for the monitoring of coralligenous reefs
Authors: Casoli E. , Ventura D. , Mancini G. , Pace D. S. , Belluscio A. , Ardizzone G.
Published: June 2021

Coralligenous reefs are characterized by large bathymetric and spatial distribution, as well as heterogeneity; in shallow environments, they develop mainly on vertical and sub-vertical rocky walls. Mainly diver-based techniques are carried out to gain detailed information on such habitats. Here, we propose a non-destructive and multi-purpose photo mosaicking method to study and monitor coralligenous reefs developing on vertical walls. High-pixel resolution images using three different commercial cameras were acquired on a 10 m2 reef, to compare the effectiveness of photomosaic method to the traditional photoquadrats technique in quantifying the coralligenous assemblage. Results showed very high spatial resolution and accuracy among the photomosaic acquired with different cameras and no significant differences with photoquadrats in assessing the assemblage composition. Despite the large difference in costs of each recording apparatus, little differences emerged from the assemblage characterization: through the analysis of the three photomosaics twelve taxa/morphological categories covered 97–99% of the sampled surface. Photo mosaicking represents a low-cost method that minimizes the time spent underwater by divers and capable of providing new opportunities for further studies on shallow coralligenous reefs.
Nanopore creation in MoS2 and graphene monolayers by nanoparticles impact: a reactive molecular dynamics study
Authors: Noori Hamidreza , Mortazavi Bohayra , Keshtkari Leila , Zhuang Xiaoying , Rabczuk Timon
Published: June 2021

In this work, extensive reactive molecular dynamics simulations are conducted to analyze the nanopore creation by nanoparticles impact over single-layer molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) with 1T and 2H phases. We also compare the results with graphene monolayer. In our simulations, nanosheets are exposed to a spherical rigid carbon projectile with high initial velocities ranging from 2 to 23 km/s. Results for three different structures are compared to examine the most critical factors in the perforation and resistance force during the impact. To analyze the perforation and impact resistance, kinetic energy and displacement time history of the projectile as well as perforation resistance force of the projectile are investigated. Interestingly, although the elasticity module and tensile strength of the graphene are by almost five times higher than those of MoS2, the results demonstrate that 1T and 2H-MoS2 phases are more resistive to the impact loading and perforation than graphene. For the MoS2nanosheets, we realize that the 2H phase is more resistant to impact loading than the 1T counterpart. Our reactive molecular dynamics results highlight that in addition to the strength and toughness, atomic structure is another crucial factor that can contribute substantially to impact resistance of 2D materials. The obtained results can be useful to guide the experimental setups for the nanopore creation in MoS2or other 2D lattices.
The ACURATE neo2 valve system for transcatheter aortic valve implantation: 30-day and 1-year outcomes
Authors: Möllmann Helge , Holzhey David M. , Hilker Michael , Toggweiler Stefan , Schäfer Ulrich , Treede Hendrik , Joner Michael , Søndergaard Lars , Christen Thomas , Allocco Dominic J. , Kim Won-Keun
Published: June 2021

Background

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has become standard treatment for elderly patients with symptomatic severe aortic valve stenosis. The ACURATE neo AS study evaluates 30-day and 1-year clinical and hemodynamic outcomes in patients treated with the ACURATE neo2 valve.

Methods

The primary endpoint of this single-arm multicenter study is 30-day all-cause mortality. Other key endpoints include device performance, echocardiographic measures assessed by an independent core laboratory, and VARC-2 clinical efficacy and safety endpoints through 12 months.

Results

The study enrolled 120 patients (mean age 82.1 ± 4.0 years; 67.5% female, mean baseline STS score 4.8 ± 3.8%). The VARC-2 composite safety endpoint at 30 days occurred in 13.3% of patients. All-cause mortality was 3.3% at 30 days and 11.9% at 1 year. The 30-day stroke rate was 2.5% (disabling stroke 1.7%); there were no new strokes between 30 days and 12 months. The rate of permanent pacemaker implantation was 15.0% (18/120) at 30 days and 17.8% (21/120) at 1 year. No patients required re-intervention for valve-related dysfunction and there were no cases of valve thrombosis or endocarditis. Patients demonstrated significant improvement in mean aortic valve gradient (baseline 38.9 ± 13.1 mmHg, 1 year 7.8 ± 3.5 mmHg; P < 0.001 in a paired analysis). In the overall population, paravalvular leak was evaluated at 1 year as none/trace in 60.5%, mild in 37.0%, and moderate in 2.5%; no patients had severe PVL.

Conclusions

One-year outcomes from the ACURATE neo AS study support the safety and performance of TAVI with the ACURATE neo2 valve.

Graphic Abstract
A third hand to the surgeon: the use of an endoscope holding arm in endonasal sinus surgery and well beyond
Authors: Hintschich Constantin A. , Fischer René , Seebauer Caroline , Schebesch Karl-Michael , Bohr Christopher , Kühnel Thomas
Published: June 2021

Background

Extended endoscopic endonasal operations of the sinuses and the frontal skull base require a bimanual action of the surgeon in many cases. Thus, typically an assistant guides the endoscope and centers the field of view. In this study, we investigate in which cases an endoscope holding arm can be used alternatively.

Materials and methods

The electromagnetic system ENDOFIXexo was used in different surgical interventions of the paranasal sinuses and beyond questioning ergonomics and geometrical limitations. The realized degrees of freedom were documented, and a topography of possible applications compiled.

Results

The presented system is limited by the anatomy of the anterior ethmoid and dynamic working conditions in the sagittal direction. Especially in extended interventions in the posterior ethmoid, in which parts of the nasal septum have been resected and a static position of the endoscope is desired the surgeon can greatly benefit from the robotic arm. Moreover, through the high flexibility of the endoscopic arm surgeries of the pharynx and larynx were performed, questioning the current gold standard of microscope-assisted surgical procedures.

Conclusion

Under the impression of an urging staff shortage and due to its unlimited patience, the ENDOFIXexo arm seems promising. Taking into account the complex anatomy and the limited access, we especially see a favorable field of application in the surgery of the pituitary gland and skull base tumors.
Analysis of barley mutants ert-c.1 and ert-d.7 reveals two loci with additive effect on plant architecture
Authors: Lu Qiongxian , Dockter Christoph , Sirijovski Nick , Zakhrabekova Shakhira , Lundqvist Udda , Gregersen Per L. , Hansson Mats
Published: June 2021

Main conclusion

Both mutant ert-c.1 and ert-d.7 carry T2-T3 translocations in the Ert-c gene. Principal coordinate analyses revealed the translocation types and translocation breakpoints. Mutant ert-d.7 is an Ert-cErt-d double mutant.

Mutations in the Ert-c and Ert-d loci are among the most common barley mutations affecting plant architecture. The mutants have various degrees of erect and compact spikes, often accompanied with short and stiff culms. In the current study, complementation tests, linkage mapping, principal coordinate analyses and fine mapping were conducted. We conclude that the original ert-d.7 mutant does not only carry an ert-d mutation but also an ert-c mutation. Combined, mutations in Ert-c and Ert-d cause a pyramid-dense spike phenotype, whereas mutations in only Ert-c or Ert-d give a pyramid and dense phenotype, respectively. Associations between the Ert-c gene and T2-T3 translocations were detected in both mutant ert-c.1 and ert-d.7. Different genetic association patterns indicate different translocation breakpoints in these two mutants. Principal coordinate analysis based on genetic distance and screening of recombinants from all four ends of polymorphic regions was an efficient way to narrow down the region of interest in translocation-involved populations. The Ert-c gene was mapped to the marker interval of 2_0801to1_0224 on 3HL near the centromere. The results illuminate a complex connection between two single genes having additive effects on barley spike architecture and will facilitate the identification of the Ert-c and Ert-d genes.
fGAAM: A fast and resizable genetic algorithm with aggressive mutation for feature selection
Authors: Rejer Izabela , Jankowski Jarosław
Published: June 2021

The paper introduces a modified version of a genetic algorithm with aggressive mutation (GAAM) called fGAAM (fast GAAM) that significantly decreases the time needed to find feature subsets of a satisfactory classification accuracy. To demonstrate the time gains provided by fGAAM both algorithms were tested on eight datasets containing different number of features, classes, and examples. The fGAAM was also compared with four reference methods: the Holland GA with and without penalty term, Culling GA, and NSGA II. Results: (i) The fGAAM processing time was about 35% shorter than that of the original GAAM. (ii) The fGAAM was also 20 times quicker than two Holland GAs and 50 times quicker than NSGA II. (iii) For datasets of different number of features, classes, and examples, another number of individuals, stored for further processing, provided the highest acceleration. On average, the best results were obtained when individuals from the last 10 populations were stored (time acceleration: 36.39%) or when the number of individuals to be stored was calculated by the algorithm itself (time acceleration: 35.74%). (iv) The fGAAM was able to process all datasets used in the study, even those that, because of their high number of features, could not be processed by the two Holland GAs and NSGA II.
Long-term efficacy and safety of CT-P6 versus trastuzumab in patients with HER2-positive early breast cancer: final results from a randomized phase III trial
Authors: Stebbing Justin , Baranau Yauheni V. , Baryash Valery , Manikhas Alexey , Moiseyenko Vladimir , Dzagnidze Giorgi , Zhavrid Edvard , Boliukh Dmytro , Pikiel Joanna , Eniu Alexandru E. , Li Rubi K. , Tiangco Beatrice , Lee Sang Joon , Kim Sunghyun
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Equivalent efficacy was demonstrated for the biosimilar CT-P6 and trastuzumab following neoadjuvant therapy for patients with human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2)-positive early breast cancer. Following adjuvant treatment, efficacy and safety were comparable between treatments. We report updated safety and efficacy data after up to 3 years’ follow-up.

Methods

Following neoadjuvant chemotherapy with CT-P6/trastuzumab, patients underwent surgery and continued receiving adjuvant CT-P6/trastuzumab. The primary endpoint (previously reported) was pathological complete response. Time-to-event analyses (disease-free survival [DFS], progression-free survival [PFS], and overall survival [OS]), study drug-related and cardiac adverse events, and immunogenicity were assessed during post-treatment follow-up.

Results

Most patients entered the follow-up period (CT-P6: 259 [95.6%]; trastuzumab: 269 [96.8%]). After a median follow-up of 38.7 (CT-P6) and 39.6 (trastuzumab) months, medians were not reached for time-to-event parameters; estimated hazard ratios (HRs) and 3-year survival rates were similar between groups. Estimated HRs (95% confidence intervals) for CT-P6 versus trastuzumab were 1.23 (0.78–1.93) for DFS, 1.31 (0.86–2.01) for PFS, and 1.10 (0.57–2.13) for OS (intention-to-treat population). Safety findings were comparable between groups for the overall study and follow-up period, including study drug-related cardiac disorders (CT-P6: 22 [8.1%] patients; trastuzumab: 24 [8.6%] patients [overall]) and decreases in left ventricular ejection fraction. Immunogenicity was similar between groups.

Conclusion

The similarity of the time-to-event analyses between CT-P6 and trastuzumab supports the equivalence in terms of efficacy established for the primary endpoint. CT-P6 was well tolerated, with comparable safety and immunogenicity to trastuzumab.

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02162667 (registered June 13, 2014)
Regional inequality of resident income and its determinants: A case study of Zhejiang Province, China
Authors: Zhang Qinchen
Published: June 2021

This paper focuses on the regional inequality of resident income in local China at the county or district level, and Zhejiang Province is set as the empirical case. It takes a geographic approach to detect the spatial distribution pattern of resident income, and explore the relationship with regional-specific socio-economic factors. The analytical framework proposed by us has been proved appropriate by the case study. Our study results show that in terms of the resident income level, there exists great regional gap in Zhejiang with the northeast wealthy cluster and much poorer cluster in the southwest. The disposable income of residents is mainly determined by commerce prosperity, urban intensity and technological capacity of local areas, while the effect of regional income, household deposits and industrial production are much less or no significant. Our findings for Zhejiang lead us to suggest that those local states seeking to improve people’s livelihood and income should not solely rely on the industrial or manufacturing expansion, but pay more attention to business environment, urban construction and indigenous innovation. Also, to narrow the significant regional gap of resident income, extra efforts should be made to push the regional cooperation system in economic development.
Questioning Racial and Gender Bias in AI-based Recommendations: Do Espoused National Cultural Values Matter?
Authors: Gupta Manjul , Parra Carlos M. , Dennehy Denis
Published: June 2021

One realm of AI, recommender systems have attracted significant research attention due to concerns about its devastating effects to society’s most vulnerable and marginalised communities. Both media press and academic literature provide compelling evidence that AI-based recommendations help to perpetuate and exacerbate racial and gender biases. Yet, there is limited knowledge about the extent to which individuals might question AI-based recommendations when perceived as biased. To address this gap in knowledge, we investigate the effects of espoused national cultural values on AI questionability, by examining how individuals might question AI-based recommendations due to perceived racial or gender bias. Data collected from 387 survey respondents in the United States indicate that individuals with espoused national cultural values associated to collectivism, masculinity and uncertainty avoidance are more likely to question biased AI-based recommendations. This study advances understanding of how cultural values affect AI questionability due to perceived bias and it contributes to current academic discourse about the need to hold AI accountable.
Oesophageal balloon positioning by echocardiography to guide positive pressure ventilation
Authors: Betello Marco , Giraud Raphael , Bendjelid Karim
Published: June 2021

Understanding the respiratory mechanics of ARDS patients is crucial to avoid ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI), and this is much more challenging if not only lung compliance is altered but the whole compliance of the respiratory system is abnormal, as in obese patients. We face this problem daily in the ICU, and to optimize ventilation, we estimate respiratory mechanics using an oesophageal balloon. The balloon position is crucial to assess reliable values. In the present technical note, we describe the use of echocardiography to confirm the correct position of this instrument.
The missing asymmetry in the Polish house price cycle: an analysis of the behaviour of house prices in 17 major cities
Authors: Brzezicka Justyna , Łaszek Jacek , Olszewski Krzysztof , Wisniewski Radoslaw
Published: June 2021

This paper investigates the house price cycle in 17 major cities in Poland, analysing separately prices of newly constructed housing and prices in the existing stock. We apply the Andre, Gupta and Mwamba (2019) framework and test the deepness and steepness of the cycles. Deepness concerns the relative magnitude of peaks and downturns, while steepness determines, how fast peaks or downturns are reached. When at least one of those measures is not symmetric, there is asymmetry in the cycle. We apply the triples test and the entropy test and find little evidence for asymmetry, mostly only in small cities. This seems to be intriguing, because usually there are asymmetries, for example slow price increases end in sudden drops. The explanation for the smooth cycle in the Polish housing market are a still not satisfied demand for housing and continuously growing wages. Banks issued mortgages only to the more affluent people, which were able to pay back the mortgage. Additionally, two housing subsidy schemes helped to keep house prices stable, when the situation in the global economy worsened, which might have led to price drops.
Thermal decomposition of tris(O-ethyldithiocarbonato)-antimony(III)—a single-source precursor for antimony sulfide thin films
Authors: Eensalu Jako S. , Tõnsuaadu Kaia , Adamson Jasper , Oja Acik Ilona , Krunks Malle
Published: June 2021

Thermal decomposition of tris(O-ethyldithiocarbonato)-antimony(III) (1), a precursor for Sb2S3thin films synthesized from an acidified aqueous solution of SbCl3and KS2COCH2CH3, was monitored by simultaneous thermogravimetry, differential thermal analysis and evolved gas analysis via mass spectroscopy (TG/DTA-EGA-MS) measurements in dynamic Ar, and synthetic air atmospheres.1was identified by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) measurements, and quantified by NMR and elemental analysis. Solid intermediates and final decomposition products of1prepared in both atmospheres were determined by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, and FTIR.1is a complex compound, where Sb is coordinated by three ethyldithiocarbonate ligands via the S atoms. The thermal degradation of1in Ar consists of three mass loss steps, and four mass loss steps in synthetic air. The total mass losses are 100% at 800 °C in Ar, and 66.8% at 600 °C in synthetic air, where the final product is Sb2O4.1melts at 85 °C, and decomposes at 90–170 °C into mainly Sb2S3, as confirmed by Raman, and an impurity phase consisting mostly of CSO22−ligands. The solid-phase mineralizes fully at ≈240 °C, which permits Sb2S3to crystallize at around 250 °C in both atmospheres. The gaseous species evolved include CS2, C2H5OH, CO, CO2, COS, H2O, SO2, and minor quantities of C2H5SH, (C2H5)2S, (C2H5)2O, and (S2COCH2CH3)2. The thermal decomposition mechanism of1is described with chemical reactions based on EGA-MS and solid intermediate decomposition product analysis.