bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The importance of multi-modal imaging and clinical information for humans and AI-based algorithms to classify breast masses (INSPiRED 003): an international, multicenter analysis
Authors: Pfob André , Sidey-Gibbons Chris , Barr Richard G. , Duda Volker , Alwafai Zaher , Balleyguier Corinne , Clevert Dirk-André , Fastner Sarah , Gomez Christina , Goncalo Manuela , Gruber Ines , Hahn Markus , Hennigs André , Kapetas Panagiotis , Lu Sheng-Chieh , Nees Juliane , Ohlinger Ralf , Riedel Fabian , Rutten Matthieu , Schaefgen Benedikt , Schuessler Maximilian , Stieber Anne , Togawa Riku , Tozaki Mitsuhiro , Wojcinski Sebastian , Xu Cai , Rauch Geraldine , Heil Joerg , Golatta Michael
Published: February 2022

Objectives

AI-based algorithms for medical image analysis showed comparable performance to human image readers. However, in practice, diagnoses are made using multiple imaging modalities alongside other data sources. We determined the importance of this multi-modal information and compared the diagnostic performance of routine breast cancer diagnosis to breast ultrasound interpretations by humans or AI-based algorithms.

Methods

Patients were recruited as part of a multicenter trial (NCT02638935). The trial enrolled 1288 women undergoing routine breast cancer diagnosis (multi-modal imaging, demographic, and clinical information). Three physicians specialized in ultrasound diagnosis performed a second read of all ultrasound images. We used data from 11 of 12 study sites to develop two machine learning (ML) algorithms using unimodal information (ultrasound features generated by the ultrasound experts) to classify breast masses which were validated on the remaining study site. The same ML algorithms were subsequently developed and validated on multi-modal information (clinical and demographic information plus ultrasound features). We assessed performance using area under the curve (AUC).

Results

Of 1288 breast masses, 368 (28.6%) were histopathologically malignant. In the external validation set (n = 373), the performance of the two unimodal ultrasound ML algorithms (AUC 0.83 and 0.82) was commensurate with performance of the human ultrasound experts (AUC 0.82 to 0.84; p for all comparisons > 0.05). The multi-modal ultrasound ML algorithms performed significantly better (AUC 0.90 and 0.89) but were statistically inferior to routine breast cancer diagnosis (AUC 0.95, p for all comparisons ≤ 0.05).

Conclusions

The performance of humans and AI-based algorithms improves with multi-modal information.

Key Points

• The performance of humans and AI-based algorithms improves with multi-modal information.

• Multimodal AI-based algorithms do not necessarily outperform expert humans.

• Unimodal AI-based algorithms do not represent optimal performance to classify breast masses.
Transcriptome-wide association study of coronary artery disease identifies novel susceptibility genes
Authors: Li Ling , Chen Zhifen , von Scheidt Moritz , Li Shuangyue , Steiner Andrea , Güldener Ulrich , Koplev Simon , Ma Angela , Hao Ke , Pan Calvin , Lusis Aldons J. , Pang Shichao , Kessler Thorsten , Ermel Raili , Sukhavasi Katyayani , Ruusalepp Arno , Gagneur Julien , Erdmann Jeanette , Kovacic Jason C. , Björkegren Johan L. M. , Schunkert Heribert
Published: February 2022

The majority of risk loci identified by genome-wide association studies (GWAS) are in non-coding regions, hampering their functional interpretation. Instead, transcriptome-wide association studies (TWAS) identify gene-trait associations, which can be used to prioritize candidate genes in disease-relevant tissue(s). Here, we aimed to systematically identify susceptibility genes for coronary artery disease (CAD) by TWAS. We trained prediction models of nine CAD-relevant tissues using EpiXcan based on two genetics-of-gene-expression panels, the Stockholm-Tartu Atherosclerosis Reverse Network Engineering Task (STARNET) and the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx). Based on these prediction models, we imputed gene expression of respective tissues from individual-level genotype data on 37,997 CAD cases and 42,854 controls for the subsequent gene-trait association analysis. Transcriptome-wide significant association (i.e. P < 3.85e−6) was observed for 114 genes. Of these, 96 resided within previously identified GWAS risk loci and 18 were novel. Stepwise analyses were performed to study their plausibility, biological function, and pathogenicity in CAD, including analyses for colocalization, damaging mutations, pathway enrichment, phenome-wide associations with human data and expression-traits correlations using mouse data. Finally, CRISPR/Cas9-based gene knockdown of two newly identified TWAS genes, RGS19 and KPTN, in a human hepatocyte cell line resulted in reduced secretion of APOB100 and lipids in the cell culture medium. Our CAD TWAS work (i) prioritized candidate causal genes at known GWAS loci, (ii) identified 18 novel genes to be associated with CAD, and iii) suggested potential tissues and pathways of action for these TWAS CAD genes.
Chromosome aberrations among atomic-bomb survivors exposed in utero: updated analysis accounting for revised radiation doses and smoking
Authors: Cologne John , Sugiyama Hiromi , Hamasaki Kanya , Tatsukawa Yoshimi , French Benjamin , Sakata Ritsu , Misumi Munechika
Published: February 2022

A previous study of peripheral blood lymphocyte translocations around age 40 among atomic-bomb survivors exposed in utero revealed no overall association with radiation dose—despite a clear association between translocations and dose among their mothers—but the data suggested an increase at doses below 100 mGy with a definite peak. That analysis of the in utero-exposed survivors did not adjust for their subsequent smoking behavior, an established cause of chromosomal aberrations, or their subsequent exposures to medical irradiation, a potential mediator. In addition, atomic-bomb survivor radiation dose estimates have subsequently been updated and refined. We therefore re-estimated the dose response using the latest DS02R1 dose estimates and adjusting for smoking as well as for city and proximal–distal location at the time of exposure to the atomic bomb. Sex of the survivor, mother’s age around the time of conception, and approximate trimester of gestation at the time of exposure were also considered as explanatory variables and modifiers. Precision of the estimated dose response was slightly lower due to greater variability near zero in the updated dose estimates, but there was little change in evidence of a low-dose increase and still no suggestion of an overall increase across the entire dose range. Adjustment for smoking behavior led to a decline in background number of translocations (the dose–response intercept), but smoking did not interact with dose overall (across the entire dose range). Adjustment for medical irradiation did not alter the association between dose and translocation frequency. Sex, mother’s age, and trimester were not associated with number of translocations, nor did they interact with dose overall. Interactions with dose in the low-dose range could not be evaluated because of numerical instability.
The use of HCT and/or ACE inhibitors significantly increases the risk of non-melanotic skin cancer in the periocular region
Authors: Mehlan Juliane , Ueberschaar Julian , Hagenström K. , Garbe C. , Spitzer M. S. , Druchkiv V. , Schuettauf F.
Published: February 2022

Background/Aims

To investigate a possible association between the use of hydrochlorothiazide (HCT) and/or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors) and the occurrence of periocular non-melanoma skin cancer.

Methods

The files of 929 patients from the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf who were surgically treated for suspected periocular malignancy were evaluated retrospectively regarding the occurrence of non-melanoma skin cancer and concomitant medication. To be able to put the data in an overall context, we also analyzed age-matched routine data of the DAK-Gesundheit (DAK-G), a nationwide operating German health insurance company.

Results

Of the 929 patient records examined, who underwent surgical excision for suspected non-melanotic malignancy, non-melanocytic skin cancer could actually be determined by histology in 199 patients. In total, 176 patients (103 women, 72 men) had a basal cell carcinoma and 23 patients (16 women, 7 men) suffered from squamous cell carcinoma. The rate of intake of HCT or ACE inhibitors in our patient collective with non-melanotic skin cancer is significantly higher than in the general age-matched population (ORACE: 2.51, p < 0.001; ORHCT: 7.24, p < 0.001, ORBOTH: 4.61, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The rate of intake of HCT or ACE inhibitors is significantly higher in our patient collective with non-melanotic skin cancer compared to the group from the age-matched general population (DAK insured (p < 0.001)) compared to the routine data of the DAK-G. This leads us to the conclusion that taking the medication is associated with an increased risk for non-melanotic skin cancer. We recommend regular skin cancer screening, moderate ordination of photosensitizing medication, but above all comprehensive clarification of possible risks.
Fast and Longest Rollercoasters
Authors: Gawrychowski Paweł , Manea Florin , Serafin Radosław
Published: February 2022

For$$k\ge 3$$k≥3, ak-rollercoasteris a sequence of numbers whose every maximal contiguous subsequence, that is increasing or decreasing, has length at leastk; 3-rollercoasters are called simply rollercoasters. Given a sequence of distinct real numbers, we are interested in computing its maximum-length (not necessarily contiguous) subsequence that is ak-rollercoaster. Biedl et al. (in: ICALP, volume 107 of LIPIcs. Schloss Dagstuhl - Leibniz-Zentrum fuer Informatik, pp 18:1–18:15, 2018) have shown that each sequence ofndistinct real numbers contains a rollercoaster of length at least$$\lceil n/2\rceil $$⌈n/2⌉for$$n>7$$n>7, and that a longest rollercoaster contained in such a sequence can be computed in$$O(n\log n)$$O(nlogn)-time (or faster, in$$O(n \log \log n)$$O(nloglogn)time, when the input sequence is a permutation of$$\{1,\ldots ,n\}$${1,…,n}). They have also shown that every sequence of$$n\geqslant (k-1)^2+1$$n⩾(k-1)2+1distinct real numbers contains ak-rollercoaster of length at least$$\frac{n}{2(k-1)}-\frac{3k}{2}$$n2(k-1)-3k2, and gave an$$O(nk\log n)$$O(nklogn)-time (respectively,$$O(n k\log \log n)$$O(nkloglogn)-time) algorithm computing a longestk-rollercoaster in a sequence of lengthn(respectively, a permutation of$$\{1,\ldots ,n\}$${1,…,n}). In this paper, we give an$$O(nk^2)$$O(nk2)-time algorithm computing the length of a longestk-rollercoaster contained in a sequence ofndistinct real numbers; hence, for constantk, our algorithm computes the length of a longestk-rollercoaster in optimal linear time. The algorithm can be easily adapted to output the respectivek-rollercoaster. In particular, this improves the results of Biedl et al. (2018), by showing that a longest rollercoaster can be computed in optimal linear time. We also present an algorithm computing the length of a longestk-rollercoaster in$$O(n \log ^2 n)$$O(nlog2n)-time, that is, subquadratic even for large values of$$k\le n$$k≤n. Again, the rollercoaster can be easily retrieved. Finally, we show an$$\Omega (n \log k)$$Ω(nlogk)lower bound for the number of comparisons in any comparison-based algorithm computing the length of a longestk-rollercoaster.
Deep transcranial magnetic stimulation in combination with skin thermography in obesity: a window on sympathetic nervous system
Authors: Ferrulli Anna , Gandini Sara , Cammarata Giulio , Redaelli Veronica , Massarini Stefano , Macrì Concetta , Terruzzi Ileana , Cannavaro Daniele , Luzi Fabio , Luzi Livio
Published: February 2022

Aims

Obesity is known to be associated with an altered thermoregulation as well as a dysregulation of sympathetic nervous system (SNS). Considering the ability of deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS) to modulate the SNS, we hypothesized a potential role of dTMS in affecting thermoregulation in obesity. Aims of the study were to monitor the effect of a single session of dTMS on body temperature in subjects with obesity, and to correlate the dTMS-induced changes in body temperature with activation of the SNS (epinephrine and norepinephrine release).

Methods

Twenty-nine subjects with obesity [5 M, 24 F; age 50 (IQR: 58, 38) yrs; BMI 36.1 (IQR: 33.9, 38.7) kg/m2] were randomized into 2 groups receiving a single session of high frequency stimulation (HF) or sham stimulation. Under neutral thermal conditions, infrared thermography was utilized to assess bilateral fingernail-beds and abdominal temperature.

Results

During a single session HF, the average temperature of both fingernail-beds decreased. Right-hand temperature difference was statistically greater in HFvsSham: median = – 1.45 (IQR: – 2.0, – 1.0)  °C for HF,p = 0.009. While temperature variation in the fingernail-bed of left hand was not statistically significant in HF compared to Sham: median = – 1.26 (IQR: – 1.6, –0.5) °C,p = 0.064. Concurrently, when estimating the effect of norepinephrine variation on temperature change of fingernail-bed of left hand, a borderline significant positive association was estimated (beta = 1.09,p = 0.067) in HF.

Conclusions

Deep TMS revealed to be effective in modulating temperature in subjects with obesity, partially reversing obesity-induced alterations in heat production and dissipation with a potential SNS-mediated mechanism.
Happier during lockdown: a descriptive analysis of self-reported wellbeing in 17,000 UK school students during Covid-19 lockdown
Authors: Soneson Emma , Puntis Stephen , Chapman Nikki , Mansfield Karen L. , Jones Peter B. , Fazel Mina
Published: February 2022

Relatively little research has focused on children and young people (CYP) whose mental health and wellbeing improved during Covid-19 lockdown measures. We aimed to (1) determine the proportion of CYP who self-reported improvement in their mental wellbeing during the first Covid-19 lockdown and (2) describe the characteristics of this group in relation to their peers. We conducted a descriptive analysis of data from the 2020 OxWell Student Survey, a self-report, cross-sectional survey of English CYP. A total of 16,940 CYP primarily aged 8–18 years reported on change in mental wellbeing during lockdown. We characterised these CYP in terms of school, home, relational, and lifestyle factors as well as feelings about returning to school. One-third (33%) of CYP reported improved mental wellbeing during the first UK national lockdown. Compared with peers who reported no change or deterioration, a higher proportion of CYP with improved mental wellbeing reported improved relationships with friends and family, less loneliness and exclusion, reduced bullying, better management of school tasks, and more sleep and exercise during lockdown. In conclusion, a sizeable minority of CYP reported improved mental wellbeing during lockdown. Determining the reasons why these CYP felt they fared better during lockdown and considering how these beneficial experiences can be maintained beyond the pandemic might provide insights into how to promote the future mental health and wellbeing of school-aged CYP. All those working with CYP now have an opportunity to consider whether a systemic shift is needed in order to understand and realise any learnings from experiences during the pandemic.
Geometry of the modelled freshwater/salt-water interface under variable-density-driven flow (Pétrola Lake, SE Spain)
Authors: Sanz D. , Valiente N. , Dountcheva I. , Muñoz-Martín A. , Cassiraga E. , Gómez-Alday J. J.
Published: February 2022

Pétrola Lake in southeast Spain is one of the most representative examples of hypersaline wetlands in southern Europe. The rich ecosystem and environmental importance of this lake are closely associated with the hydrogeological behaviour of the system. The wetland is fed by the underlying aquifer with relatively fresh groundwater—1 g L−1 of total dissolved solids (TDS)—with a centripetal direction towards the wetland. In addition, the high evaporation rates of the region promote an increase in the concentration of salts in the lake water, occasionally higher than 80 g L−1 TDS. The density difference between the superficial lake water and the regional groundwater can reach up to 0.25 g cm−3, causing gravitational instability and density-driven flow (DDF) under the lake bottom. The objective of this study was to gain an understanding of the geometry of the freshwater–saltwater interface by means of two-dimensional mathematical modelling and geophysical-resistivity-profile surveys. The magnitude and direction of mixed convective flows, generated by DDF, support the hypothesis that the autochthonous reactive organic matter produced in the lake by biomass can be transported effectively towards the freshwater–saltwater interface areas (e.g. springs in the lake edge), where previous research described biogeochemical processes of natural attenuation of nitrate pollution.
Clinical outcome of neurological patients with COVID-19: the impact of healthcare organization improvement between waves
Authors: Cristillo Viviana , Pilotto Andrea , Benussi Alberto , Libri Ilenia , Giunta Marcello , Morotti Andrea , Gipponi Stefano , Locatelli Martina , Piccinelli Stefano Cotti , Mazzoleni Valentina , di Cola Francesca Schiano , Masciocchi Stefano , Pezzini Debora , Scalvini Andrea , Premi Enrico , Cottini Elisabetta , Gamba Massimo , Magoni Mauro , Fontanella Marco Maria , Padovani Alessandro
Published: February 2022

Objective

The aim of this study is to evaluate the differences in clinical presentations and the impact of healthcare organization on outcomes of neurological COVID-19 patients admitted during the first and second pandemic waves.

Methods

In this single-center cohort study, we included all patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection admitted to a Neuro-COVID Unit. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were compared between patients admitted during the first and second waves of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results

Two hundred twenty-three patients were included, of whom 112 and 111 were hospitalized during the first and second pandemic waves, respectively. Patients admitted during the second wave were younger and exhibited pulmonary COVID-19 severity, resulting in less oxygen support (n = 41, 36.9% vs n = 79, 70.5%, p < 0.001) and lower mortality rates (14.4% vs 31.3%, p = 0.004). The different healthcare strategies and early steroid treatment emerged as significant predictors of mortality independently from age, pre-morbid conditions and COVID-19 severity in Cox regression analyses.

Conclusions

Differences in healthcare strategies during the second phase of the COVID-19 pandemic probably explain the differences in clinical outcomes independently of disease severity, underlying the importance of standardized early management of neurological patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Towards a cultural lens for adaptation pathways to climate change
Authors: Marks Danny , Bayrak Mucahid Mustafa , Jahangir Selim , Henig David , Bailey Ajay
Published: February 2022

Adaptation pathways have been conventionally viewed as an approach for planning and identifying different adaptation options and the ways in which they can be realized. However, there has been scant consideration of the wide diversity of cultural and social processes which shape how adaptation pathways emerge. We argue that a cultural lens sheds light on differential vulnerability and the processes that enable or hinder adaptation. A cultural lens focuses intrinsically on intersectional categories which can impact the adaptive agency or resilience of individuals, households, and communities. In particular, we need to examine how cultural beliefs, norms, and practices change over time, and are reflected in adaptation pathways since livelihoods do not remain the same over the life course. Additionally, taking a broader perspective by incorporating concepts from cognitive anthropology helps us understand motivations and choices which influence adaptation pathways.
Determinants of the incidence of non-academic staff in European and US HEIs
Authors: Avenali Alessandro , Daraio Cinzia , Wolszczak-Derlacz Joanna
Published: February 2022

In this article, we contribute to the scant literature covering quantitative studies on the determinants of the non-academic staff incidence in higher education institutions by analysing how the proportion of non-academic staff is related to key features such as size, prestige, year of foundation and financial structure of universities. We apply nonlinear regression analysis to compare HEIs across Europe and the USA, taking into account time and cross-country heterogeneity of the two balanced panel datasets concerning European and American universities over a period of 6 years (2011–2016 for Europe and 2012–2017 for the USA). Evidence suggests that in both Europe and the USA, public and larger (if sufficiently large) as well as more research-oriented units are characterised by a higher proportion of non-academic staff. In Europe, we observe an inverted U-shaped effect of the share of non-personnel expenditure and the foundation year on the proportion of non-academic staff, while the proportion of non-academic staff decreases with the share of core and third-party funding. For the USA, we obtain similar findings except that the share of core funding and third-party funding is characterised by a U-shaped effect, and the impact of the share of non-personnel expenditure has no empirical effect on the proportion of non-academic staff. Additionally, we discover that some factors that contribute to the proportion of non-academic staff may constitute indicators of performance, suggesting the need for further research to extend our knowledge on the complex issue of the role played by non-academic staff in university performance.
Fluid Leakage in Static Rubber Seals
Authors: Persson B. N. J.
Published: February 2022

Interfacial surface roughness can result in fluid leakage of seals, and in the design of seals it is standard to give an upper limit for the surface root-mean-square (rms) roughness amplitude $$h_\text{rms}$$

h
rms

. However, $$h_\text{rms}$$

h
rms

is determined mainly by the long-wavelength roughness, which is (nearly) irrelevant for the sealing. I discuss the parameters which determine the leakage of seals, and present results for static rubber seals with circular cross-section (like rubber O-rings). I also study the influence of the fluid pressure on the interfacial surface separation and the leakrate.

Graphical Abstract
bi-directional Bayesian probabilistic model based hybrid grained semantic matchmaking for Web service discovery
Authors: Li Shuangyin , Luo Haoyu , Zhao Gansen , Tang Mingdong , Liu Xiao
Published: February 2022

Web service discovery is a fundamental task in service-oriented architectures which searches for suitable web services based on users’ goals and preferences. In this paper, we present a novel service discovery approach that can support user queries with various-size-grained text elements. Compared with existing approaches that only support semantics matchmaking in single texture granularity (either word level or paragraph level), our approach enables the requester to search for services with any type of query content with high performance, including word, phrase, sentence, or paragraph. Specifically, we present an unsupervised Bayesian probabilistic model, bi-Directional Sentence-Word Topic Model (bi-SWTM), to achieve semantic matchmaking between possible textual types of queries (word, phrase, sentence, paragraph) and the texts in web service descriptions, by mapping words and sentences in the same semantic space. The bi-SWTM captures textual semantics of the words and sentences in a probabilistic simplex, which provides a flexible method to build the semantic links from user queries to service descriptions. The novel approach is validated using a collection of comprehensive experiments on ProgrammableWeb data. The results demonstrate that the bi-SWTM outperforms state-of-the-art methods on service discovery and classification. The visualization of the nearest-neighbored queries and descriptions shows the capability of our model on capturing the latent semantics of web services.
Effects of 2,4,6-Trichlorophenol on Clarias batrachus: a biomarkers approach
Authors: Mukherjee Dip , Ferreira Nuno G. C. , Saha Nimai Chandra
Published: February 2022

2,4,6-Trichlorophenol (2,4,6-TCP) is a common waste among the resulting chlorophenols generated in the production of common products classified as an extremely toxic, mutagenic, carcinogenic and highly persistent xenobiotic in the environment. To evaluate the impact of 2,4,6-TCP in aquatic systems, the catfish species Clarias batrachus has been selected to test its toxicity due to its high market value and consumption in India. Here is presented the impact of this compound on different physiological parameters of fish: haematological parameters (haemoglobin, total erythrocyte count, total leucocyte count and mean corpuscular haemoglobin), biochemical parameters (total serum protein and total serum glucose), growth and reproductive parameters (condition factor, hepatosomatic index, maturity index, specific growth rate, growth hormone, 17β-estradiol and testosterone), exposed to two concentrations of 2,4,6-TCP (0.5 mg/L and 1 mg/L — 1/10th and 1/20th of the LC50) for a period of 15, 30 and 45 days. The results showed that C. batrachus even when exposed to the lower concentration (0.5 mg/L) for the shortest time (15 days) negatively impacted the organism in all the assessed parameters. This was highlighted by the Integrated Biomarker Response index (IBR), showing worse scores for the treatments (up to 20 × worse than the control). This work highlights the importance of continued research on the impact of 2,4,6-TCP, on an important commercial, supported by the high environmental persistence of this compound that can reach the same range of tested concentrations.
Back to the Roots: A Discrete Kermack–McKendrick Model Adapted to Covid-19
Authors: Kreck Matthias , Scholz Erhard
Published: February 2022

A widely used tool for analysing the Covid-19 pandemic is the standard SIR model. It seems often to be used as a black box, not taking into account that this model was derived as a special case of the seminal Kermack–McKendrick theory from 1927. This is our starting point. We explain the setup of the Kermack–McKendrick theory (passing to a discrete approach) and use medical information for specializing to a model called by us anadapted K-McK-model. It includes effects of vaccination, mass testing and mutants. We demonstrate the use of the model by applying it to the development in Germany and show, among others things, that a comparatively mild intervention reducing the time until quarantine by one day would lead to a drastic improvement.
Process Diagnostics and Control in Thermal Spray
Authors: Mauer Georg , Moreau Christian
Published: February 2022

This perspective paper summarizes the authors’ view on how process diagnostics and control can help to gain a deeper insight into thermal spray processes and to better understand the underlying mechanisms. The current situation in terms of available process control strategies and suitable sensors is described. In perspective, it is assumed that with suitable models, sensors and machine learning tools, it will be possible to perform a smaller number of experiments to develop coatings with specific target characteristics. In addition, trained machine learning tools can be used to implement an efficient control strategy to produce coatings with high reproducibility and reliability. The corresponding existing knowledge gaps are analyzed to identify needs for future research.
Die zukünftige Entwicklung der Grundschulversorgung im Kontext ausgewählter Wanderungsszenarien
Authors: Dräger Sebastian , Kopp Johannes , Münnich Ralf , Schmaus Simon
Published: February 2022

Um die Potentiale der Mikrosimulation als ein Instrument zur Analyse zukünftiger Versorgungslagen in verschiedenen (sozialpolitischen) Bereichen aufzuzeigen, wurde am Beispiel der Stadt Trier eine Mikrosimulationsstudie durchgeführt, bei der der Einfluss unterschiedlicher Wanderungsszenarien auf die Situation der Grundschülerinnen und Grundschüler im Stadtgebiet untersucht wurde. Die Datenbasis stellt eine synthetische Grundgesamtheit der Bevölkerung auf Basis der Zensusergebnisse 2011 dar, welche mit Hilfe von Zensusgitterzellen geografisch im Stadtgebiet verortet und modellbasiert in die Zukunft fortgeschrieben wurde. Außerdem liegen für Trier für die Jahre 2011 bis 2018 präzise Zahlen zu Schülerinnen und Schülern der Elementarstufe vor, an denen nicht nur die Simulationsgesamtheit konfiguriert werden kann, sondern die auch als zentrale Benchmarks für die Validität der Fortschreibungsmodule und –Parameter dienen können.
Social Support and Participation as Factors Relating to Ikigai and Life Satisfaction in Lonely Older Japanese
Authors: Fukuzawa Ai , Sugawara Ikuko
Published: February 2022

This study investigated associations among loneliness, social support, social participation, and well-being among the Japanese elderly. We predicted that the negative association between loneliness and well-being would be weaker in people with adequate social support and frequent social participation. We measured ikigai and life satisfaction as indices of well-being. Ikigai and life satisfaction both include satisfaction with a person’s current and past life, yet ikigai also includes unique concepts such as satisfaction with social interactions and positive expectations for the future. Data of 418 Japanese aged 75 and older were analyzed; findings demonstrated that loneliness was negatively related to ikigai but not life satisfaction. There was a significant interaction between loneliness and social support for life satisfaction and ikigai. The interaction between loneliness and the frequency of social participation was significant only for ikigai. Post-hoc analysis indicated that social support and social participation frequency were negatively related to the negative association between loneliness and well-being, especially ikigai. These results suggest that ikigai and life satisfaction have a differential relationship to loneliness and social interaction because the concept of ikigai uniquely included perceived social roles.
The role of calcareous nannofossils in building age models for Cenozoic marine sediments: a review
Authors: Raffi Isabella , Backman Jan
Published: February 2022

This review paper has been thought to emphasize the role of Biostratigraphy in Geosciences and, specifically, of calcareous nannofossils as dating tool. This group of calcareous plankton occurs in Mesozoic and Cenozoic carbonate-bearing marine sediments in all depositional settings and is routinely used for stratigraphic purposes. The importance of calcareous nannofossils in relative dating of marine sediments is due to their abundance, taxonomic diversity, rapid evolution and wide distribution in marine environments. Nannofossil biostratigraphy improved over the last few decades due to the use of accurate methods for data gathering, including acquisition of semiquantitative census data on high-resolution samples. These microfossils contribute to obtain reliable biostratigraphic classification in various time-intervals in the last 66 m.y. and often provide the key to the interpretation of other stratigraphic records. Nannofossil biohorizons can be used as control points for constructing cyclostratigraphic composite sections, and for identification of magnetostratigraphic intervals, and have provided a basis for age models subsequently developed into orbitally tuned cyclostratigraphies or used for chronological revision of polarity timescale.

Graphic abstract
Explicit Proper p-Harmonic Functions on the Riemannian Symmetric Spaces $$\mathbf{SU} (n)/\mathbf{SO} (n)$$, $$\mathbf{Sp} (n)/\mathbf{U} (n)$$, $$\mathbf{SO} (2n)/\mathbf{U} (n)$$, $$\mathbf{SU} (2n)/\mathbf{Sp} (n)$$
Authors: Gudmundsson Sigmundur , Siffert Anna , Sobak Marko
Published: February 2022

In this work we construct explicit complex-valued p-harmonic functions on the compact Riemannian symmetric spaces $$\mathbf{SU} (n)/\mathbf{SO} (n)$$

SU
(
n
)
/
SO
(
n
)

, $$\mathbf{Sp} (n)/\mathbf{U} (n)$$

Sp
(
n
)
/
U
(
n
)

, $$\mathbf{SO} (2n)/\mathbf{U} (n)$$

SO
(
2
n
)
/
U
(
n
)

, $$\mathbf{SU} (2n)/\mathbf{Sp} (n)$$

SU
(
2
n
)
/
Sp
(
n
)

. We also describe how the same can be manufactured on their non-compact symmetric dual spaces.
Estrogen Receptor-A in Medial Preoptic Area Contributes to Sex Difference of Mice in Response to Sevoflurane Anesthesia
Authors: Zhang Yunyun , Li Huiming , Zhang Xinxin , Wang Sa , Wang Dan , Wang Jiajia , Tong Tingting , Zhang Zhen , Yang Qianzi , Dong Hailong
Published: February 2022

A growing number of studies have identified sex differences in response to general anesthesia; however, the underlying neural mechanisms are unclear. The medial preoptic area (MPA), an important sexually dimorphic structure and a critical hub for regulating consciousness transition, is enriched with estrogen receptor alpha (ERα), particularly in neuronal clusters that participate in regulating sleep. We found that male mice were more sensitive to sevoflurane. Pharmacological inhibition of ERα in the MPA abolished the sex differences in sevoflurane anesthesia, in particular by extending the induction time and facilitating emergence in males but not in females. Suppression of ERα in vitro inhibited GABAergic and glutamatergic neurons of the MPA in males but not in females. Furthermore, ERα knockdown in GABAergic neurons of the male MPA was sufficient to eliminate sex differences during sevoflurane anesthesia. Collectively, MPA ERα positively regulates the activity of MPA GABAergic neurons in males but not in females, which contributes to the sex difference of mice in sevoflurane anesthesia.
Design of the landing guidance for the retro-propulsive vertical landing of a reusable rocket stage
Authors: Botelho Afonso , Martinez Marc , Recupero Cristina , Fabrizi Andrea , De Zaiacomo Gabriele
Published: February 2022

Launcher reusability is the most effective way of reducing access to space costs, but remains a great technical challenge for the European aerospace industry. One of the challenges lies in the recovery GNC strategy and algorithms, in particular those of the powered-landing phase, which must enable a precise landing with low fuel margins and significant dispersions. While state-of-the-art solutions for Navigation and control problems can be applied, namely, hybrid Navigation techniques and robust control, for the powered descent guidance problem novel techniques are required to enable on-board optimization, that is necessary to achieve the landing accuracy required to recover the first stage of a launcher. This paper presents the GNC solution currently in development by DEIMOS Space for RETALT (Retro Propulsion Assisted Landing Technologies), an EU Horizon 2020 funded project for studying launch system re-usability technologies for different classes of vertical take-off vertical-landing vehicles. At first, the architecture of the GNC solution identified for the return mission of the launcher is presented. Then, the paper focuses on the landing phase guidance solution, whose performance is critical to enable the recovery and, therefore, the reusability of the launcher making use of retro-propulsion. The guidance strategy is based on direct optimal control methods via on-board optimization, which is necessary to satisfy the pinpoint landing requirement in a high uncertain dynamic system, such as a booster recovery mission. Online convex optimization and successive convexification are explored for the design of the guidance function. The proposed guidance solution was integrated and tested in a high-fidelity simulator and the performance was preliminary assessed. The guidance assessment allowed selecting the best algorithms to be further consolidated and integrated in an end-to-end GNC solution for the return mission.
Photovoltaic array reconfiguration under partial shading conditions for maximum power extraction via knight's tour technique
Authors: Rezazadeh Sevda , Moradzadeh Arash , Pourhossein Kazem , Mohammadi-Ivatloo Behnam , García Márquez Fausto Pedro
Published: February 2022

This paper introduces a novel reconfiguration technique, called Knight's tour to extract maximum power from photovoltaic (PV) arrays in partial shading conditions. The Knight's tour reconfigures the PV arrays based on the Knight's movements on the chessboard. The proposed procedure achieves the maximum power values by spreading partial shadows in all rows. Knight's tour can be applied to a variety of PV arrays in different dimensions and sizes. Accordingly, the Knight's tour procedure is applied to four cases in square and rectangular shapes with different dimensions and various shading conditions in each case. To make a direct comparison and present the effectiveness of the suggested procedure, the total-cross-tied connection model and conventional methods such as SuDoKu, optimal SuDoKu, improved SuDoKu, and Skyscraper puzzle are also implemented to the introduced cases. The results of the maximum power point tracking in each case are evaluated by indicators such as global maximum power point (GMPP), fill factor, mismatch loss, and efficiency. Finally, evaluations emphasize the ability and effectiveness of the Knight's tour solution compared to other methods by achieving the GMPP values such as $$74.7\,{I}_{m}{V}_{m}$$

74.7

I
m

V
m

, $$66.6\,{I}_{m}{V}_{m}$$

66.6

I
m

V
m

, $$46.8\,{I}_{m}{V}_{m}$$

46.8

I
m

V
m

, and $$109.8\,{I}_{m}{V}_{m}$$

109.8

I
m

V
m

for cases 1 to 4, respectively. The Knight's tour method can be utilized as an efficient tool for the PV arrays in real-world systems that suffer from partial shading.
Optimized Hot Spot and Directional Distribution Analyses Characterize the Spatiotemporal Variation of Large Wildfires in Washington, USA, 1970−2020
Authors: Zerbe Kevin , Polit Chris , McClain Stacey , Cook Tim
Published: February 2022

Spatiotemporal analysis of fire activity is vital for determining why wildfires occur where they do, assessing wildfire risks, and developing locally relevant wildfire risk reduction strategies. Using various spatial statistical methods, we determined hot spots of large wildfires (> 100 acres) in Washington, the United States, and mapped spatiotemporal variations in large wildfire activity from 1970 to 2020. Our results found that all hot spots are located east of the crest of the Cascade Range. Our spatiotemporal analysis found that the geographic area wherein most of the state’s acres burned has shrunk considerably since 1970 and has become concentrated over the north-central portion of the state over time. This concentration of large wildfire activity in north-central Washington was previously unquantified and may provide important information for hazard mitigation efforts in that area. Our results highlight the advantages of using spatial statistical methods that could aid the development of natural hazard mitigation plans and risk reduction strategies by characterizing previous hazard occurrences spatially and spatiotemporally.
Molecular imaging in atherosclerosis
Authors: Bassir Ali , Raynor William Y. , Park Peter Sang Uk , Werner Thomas J. , Alavi Abass , Revheim Mona-Elisabeth
Published: February 2022

Purpose

As atherosclerosis is a  prominent cause of morbidity and mortality, early detection of atherosclerotic plaques is vital to prevent complications. Imaging plays a significant role in this goal. Molecular imaging and structural imaging detect different phases of atherosclerotic progression. In this review, we explain the relation between these types of imaging with the physiopathology of plaques, along with their advantages and disadvantages. We also discuss in detail the most commonly used positron emission tomography (PET) radiotracers for atherosclerosis imaging.

Method

A comprehensive search was conducted to extract articles related to imaging of atherosclerosis in PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science. The obtained papers were reviewed regarding precise relation with our topic. Among the search keywords utilized were "atherosclerosis imaging", "atherosclerosis structural imaging", "atherosclerosis CT scan" "positron emission tomography", "PET imaging", "18F-NaF", "18F-FDG", and "atherosclerosis calcification."

Result

Although structural imaging such as computed tomography (CT) offers essential information regarding plaque structure and morphologic features, these modalities can only detect macroscopic alterations that occur later in the disease’s progression, when the changes are frequently irreversible. Molecular imaging modalities like PET, on the other hand, have the advantage of detecting microscopic changes and allow us to treat these plaques before irreversible changes occur. The two most commonly used tracers in PET imaging of atherosclerosis are 18F-sodium fluoride (18F-NaF) and 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG). While there are limitations in the use of 18F-FDG for the detection of atherosclerosis in coronary arteries due to physiological uptake in myocardium and high luminal blood pool activity of 18F-FDG, 18F-NaF PET is less affected and can be utilized to analyze the coronary arteries in addition to the peripheral vasculature.

Conclusion

Molecular imaging with PET/CT has become a useful tool in the early detection of atherosclerosis. 18F-NaF PET/CT shows promise in the early global assessment of atherosclerosis, but further prospective studies are needed to confirm its role in this area.
Part I: Insect stings and bites—Beyond the realm of bee and wasp allergies
Authors: Guillet Carole , Martin Oliver Yves , Meincke Cordula , Joerg Lukas , Schmid-Grendelmeier Peter
Published: February 2022

Background

Insects are a very diverse group of animals and valuable members of any ecosystem. Allergies to bees and wasps (order: Hymenoptera) are well known in Europe. Allergies, toxicities, and the spread of diseases by other insects are also possible but quite frequently are not diagnosed.

Sources

A MEDLINE search on allergy caused by stinging and biting insects apart from bees and wasps was conducted. All relevant articles were evaluated, and a selection of relevant publications and cases from our outpatient units are used to illustrate our arguments.

Content and implications

Allergies to insects following bites and stings are common. Ant stings, mainly from imported fire ants, frequently lead to severe anaphylaxis, and their venom can elicit systemic toxic effects. Stings and bites of various other ant species can also lead to severe allergic reactions. Mosquito stings and horsefly or other Diptera stings may elicit severe local and IgE-mediated systemic reactions. True bugs (Hemiptera) are hematophagous insects and can also cause severe allergic reactions, in addition to being feared for transmitting diseases.
An introduction to the Special Issue on “Sports Science: Evolutionary Perspectives and Biological Mechanisms”
Authors: Ponzi Davide
Published: February 2022

The goal of the special issue on “Sports science: evolutionary perspectives and biological mechanisms” was to build a bridge to help the development of a coherent and unifying approach to the study of sport science within an evolutionary framework. By focusing specifically on the biological and psychological dynamics of sport performance and competition, we asked if sports can be used to study the evolution of human behavior, biology and psychology. Likewise, we asked whether this evolutionary approach could improve our understandings of the physical and psychological limits of human athletic performance and health.
Rates of compact object coalescences
Authors: Mandel Ilya , Broekgaarden Floor S.
Published: February 2022

Gravitational-wave detections are enabling measurements of the rate of coalescences of binaries composed of two compact objects—neutron stars and/or black holes. The coalescence rate of binaries containing neutron stars is further constrained by electromagnetic observations, including Galactic radio binary pulsars and short gamma-ray bursts. Meanwhile, increasingly sophisticated models of compact objects merging through a variety of evolutionary channels produce a range of theoretically predicted rates. Rapid improvements in instrument sensitivity, along with plans for new and improved surveys, make this an opportune time to summarise the existing observational and theoretical knowledge of compact-binary coalescence rates.
How flat can it get? From better at flatter to the promise of the decentralized, boundaryless organization
Authors: Alexy Oliver
Published: February 2022

Should organizations move to flatter designs—or rather: when, why, and how should they do so? In light of a burgeoning literature, I review the well-structured, timely, and applicable contribution that Markus Reitzig’s new book Better at Flatter: A guide to shaping and leading organizations with less hierarchy makes in particular for executives struggling with these questions. At the same time, I highlight how the core arguments on which Reitzig builds his insights and recommendations easily transcend to current academic discussions, and may help inspire further research on the future of organizing more broadly.
Foliar element distributions in Guadua bamboo, a major forest dominant in southwestern Amazonia
Authors: Kalliola Risto , Linna Ari , Ruokolainen Kalle , Tyystjärvi Esa , Lange Carl
Published: February 2022

Silica is the best-known component filling the spaces that form phytoliths in many plants, but phytoliths may also contain other elements. We used scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM–EDX) to map element distributions in the leaves of Guadua bamboo, which is a successful competitor in southwestern Amazonian forests. We emphasize immobile elements that can be mineralized (silicon and calcium) as well as potassium, an abundant mobile nutrient with many vital functions. We discovered high silicon (Si) content with little or no calcium (Ca) or potassium (K) in bulliform cells, bilobate shaped short cells and stomata, all of which can form phytoliths, and moderately high Si content in the bundle sheet, prickle tips and papillae. K often surrounded Si-loaded cells, Si and K had overlapping distributions in the intercostal areas near vein margins, and Ca showed abundant spotted distribution in the intercostal areas. The dark inside content of the costal zones of some samples in light microscopy showed no mineralization but prominently contained sulfur. Adjacent fusoid cells showed different Si, K and Ca combinations, which may suggest potentially variable functions of these cells. Widespread Si deposition strengthens Guadua bamboo leaves and may help it to outcompete tree species during periods of drought.