bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A digital catalog of high‐density markers for banana germplasm collections
Authors: Rouard Mathieu , Sardos Julie , Sempéré Guilhem , Breton Catherine , Guignon Valentin , Van den Houwe Ines , Carpentier Sebastien C. , Roux Nicolas
Published: March 2021

Societal Impact Statement

Global production of bananas, among the top 10 food crops worldwide, is under threat. Increasing the use of germplasm conserved in genebanks is crucial. However, the lack of or difficult access to genetic diversity information limits the efficient utilization of these valuable resources. Here, we present a digital catalog of high‐density markers for banana germplasm conserved at the international banana collection. By facilitating access to subsets of genetic diversity information, the catalog has potential to maximize conservation and use of climate‐ready varieties and to optimize breeding strategies. The catalog is extendable with data from any banana collection and the software is easily deployable in other crop genebanks.
Diffusion of Labile Chemical Species in HTPB and HTPB‐XT Solid Propellants and Its Effect over Solid Rocket Motor Properties on Aging – A Study
Authors: Selvakumar S. , Rao G. Sreenivasa , Reddy K. Audisesha
Published: March 2021

Hydroxyl terminated polybutadiene resin (HTPB) based solid propellants are being currently used in solid rocket motors of launch vehicles. HTPB‐XT (HTPB blended with the hydrocarbon oil, Extol‐21) was developed to enhance the pot life of the propellant slurry and to overcome the problems in the propellant processing due to the shorter pot life of present HTPB propellants. The diffusion study of labile chemical species in HTPB and HTPB‐XT propellants (with low and high viscosity hydrocarbon oils) was carried out. Analog cartons simulating the propellant of the main motor were cast with 120 kg mix level propellant and subjected to an aging study at room temperature and an accelerated condition at different intervals over a period of 100 days. Samples from the cartons were subjected to Soxhlet extraction and analyzed for concentration of chemical species in insulation rubber as well as in propellant. The change in concentration of species from the insulation to interior propellant was also studied and compared with HTPB propellant. The diffusion of the other chemicals along with plasticizer was also observed in these studies. Nonax‐D, a solid ingredient also migrated due to its solubility in the propellant matrix but not due to the movement of solid particles. Due to the migration of propellant chemicals into insulation, there was a significant reduction in their initial concentrations in the propellant regions adjacent to the insulation surface. The rate of diffusion of the chemically unbound species was affected by temperature and time. The results of viscosity build‐up, mechanical, interfacial, ballistic properties for HTPB and HTPB‐XT propellants are presented and discussed.
Molecular and biological features of Culex quinquefasciatus homozygous larvae for two cqm1 alleles that confer resistance to Lysinibacillus sphaericus larvicides
Authors: Menezes Heverly Suzany G , Nascimento Nathaly A , Paiva‐Cavalcanti Milena , da Costa‐Latgé Samara G , Genta Fernando A , Oliveira Cláudia MF , Romão Tatiany P , Silva‐Filha Maria Helena NL
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND

Culex quinquefasciatus resistance to the binary toxin from Lysinibacillus sphaericus larvicides can occur because of mutations in the cqm1 gene that prevents the expression of the toxin receptor, Cqm1 α‐glucosidase. In a resistant laboratory‐selected colony maintained for more than 250 generations, cqm1REC and cqm1REC‐2 resistance alleles were identified. The major allele initially found, cqm1REC, became minor and was replaced by cqm1REC‐2. This study aimed to investigate the features associated with homozygous larvae for each allele to understand the reasons for the allele replacement and to generate knowledge on resistance to microbial larvicides.

RESULTS

Homozygous larvae for each allele were compared. Both larvae displayed the same level of resistance to the binary toxin (3500‐fold); therefore, a change in phenotype was not the reason for the replacement observed. The lack of Cqm1 expression did not reduce the total specific α‐glucosidase activity for homozygous cqm1REC and cqm1REC‐2 larvae, which were statistically similar to the susceptible strain, using artificial or natural substrates. The expression of eight Cqm1 paralog α‐glucosidases was demonstrated in resistant and susceptible larvae. Bioassays in which cqm1REC or cqm1REC‐2 homozygous larvae were reared under stressful conditions showed that most adults produced were cqm1REC‐2 homozygous (69%). Comparatively, in the offspring of a heterozygous sub‐colony reared under optimal conditions for 20 generations, the cqm1REC allele assumed a higher frequency (0.72).

CONCLUSION

Homozygous larvae for each allele exhibited a similar resistant phenotype. However, they presented specific advantages that might favor their selection and can be used in designing resistance management practices. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Development of a simple and accurate molecular tool for Spodoptera frugiperda species identification using LAMP
Authors: Kim Juil , Nam Hwa Y , Kwon Min , Kim Hyun J , Yi Hwi J , Haenniger Sabine , Unbehend Melanie , Heckel David G
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND

The fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda is a native species of the Americas. First detected in western and central Africa in early 2016, it has become one of the most serious invasive lepidopteran pests in many African and Asian countries. S. frugiperda has spread very quickly; however, there are no molecular‐based, simple and accurate diagnostic tools for identification of this species in the field. Methods to identify invasive S. frugiperda are urgently needed because farmers and agricultural managers have no prior experience with this pest.

RESULTS

Based on mitochondrial genome sequence alignment, a S. frugiperda‐specific sequence region was identified in the transfer RNA‐coding region between NADH dehydrogenase, ND3, and ND5. Using this unique region, species‐diagnostic primers were designed and applied in a loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay and a conventional polymerase chain reaction to identify field‐collected samples of S. frugiperda. The optimal incubation conditions for the LAMP assay were 61°C for 90 min with four LAMP primers; an additional loop primer increased the amplification efficiency. A response was obtained for a wide range of DNA concentrations in the LAMP assay and the minimum detectable DNA concentration was 10 pg.

CONCLUSIONS

We developed a new LAMP‐based molecular diagnostic method that it is easy to use and accurate. The LAMP assay was used with a DNA‐releasing technique for larval and adult samples, without a DNA extraction step, by incubating the tissue sample at 95°C for 5 min. This method can be applied in intensive field monitoring of S. frugiperda and its ecological studies. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Recommendations for offline combustion‐based nitrogen isotopic analysis of silicate minerals and rocks
Authors: Li Long , Li Kan , Li Yingzhou , Zhang Ji , Du Yifan , Labbe Mark
Published: March 2021

Rationale

Due to isotope fractionations during partial nitrogen release from minerals and rocks, the complete extraction of nitrogen for analysis is crucial to ensure high‐quality nitrogen isotopic data. However, the appropriate nitrogen extraction conditions (e.g. temperature, duration) have not been established for most silicate minerals and rocks.

Methods

Nitrogen in a number of common minerals and rocks was extracted using the most robust sealed‐tube offline combustion techniques, purified and quantified in a custom‐made metal manifold, and carried by helium gas to an isotope ratio mass spectrometer for isotopic measurement at nanomolar nitrogen level. Each mineral or rock was combusted in a variety of temperature and duration conditions to compare the nitrogen yields and isotopic compositions.

Results

The nitrogen yields and isotopic compositions of minerals and rocks are strongly affected by combustion temperature and duration. The optimal combustion temperature is lowest for cyclosilicate minerals, followed by phyllosilicate, tectosilicate and inosilicate minerals. Preheating of samples can induce significant nitrogen loss and δ15N shift. Heating of samples above their optimal temperatures may cause nitrogen re‐assimilation by the residual mineral or rock.

Conclusions

Each mineral or rock has a characteristic optimal temperature and duration for complete nitrogen release. Preheating, under‐heating or over‐heating can cause nitrogen loss and isotopic shift. Therefore, we recommend using the offline combustion techniques and the optimal combustion conditions obtained in this study for nitrogen quantification and isotopic analysis of silicate minerals and rocks.
Characterization of Molecular Arrangement of Long‐chain Ferrocenyl Derivatives Having Asymmetric Carbon by Method of Organized Molecular Films and Formation of Its Helical Nanofibers
Authors: Kimura Yusuke , Mashiyama Yuki , Maruyama Haruka , Kawabata Youhei , Kijima Tatsuro , Fujimori Atsuhiro
Published: March 2021

Formation of organized molecular film and helical nanofibers of ferrocene derivatives having R‐12‐hydroxystearyl chains with asymmetric carbon was investigated. The 12‐hydroxystearyl chain, which induces “thixotropy” due to the formation and breakage of intermolecular hydrogen bonds, was introduced into the ferrocenyl unit. The structure of this derivative as a monolayer on the water surface and its Langmuir‐Blodgett (LB) film properties were analyzed. The monolayer showed a two‐dimensional phase transition, corresponding to the formation of fibrous morphology. In the LB multilayers, intermolecular hydrogen bonding between hydroxyl groups at the 12‐position of the chain and crystalline packing was observed. Raman mapping revealed the difference in surface morphology of each derivative depending on the number of 12‐hydroxystearyl chains. The derivative having the single chain showed a right‐handed helical morphology in the film and this behavior is similar to those having two and three chains. In circular dichroism spectra, the film showed a positive Cotton effect. Since the helical chains easily entangle with each other to form a sponge‐like organization, it was expected that the solvent uptake was the origin of gelation induction to its contact solvent.
Hydrazone‐Based Supramolecular Organogel for Selective Chromogenic Detection of Organophosphorus Nerve Agent Mimic
Authors: Abdelrahman Meram S. , Khattab Tawfik A. , Kamel Samir
Published: March 2021

Synthesis and spectroscopic characterization of a low molecular mass organogelator based on alkyl chain‐substituted tricyanofuran hydrazone (TCFH) dyes are described for detecting organophosphorus based nerve agent mimic. The reactivity of the prepared TCFH‐based organogel towards diethylchlorophosphonate (DCP) has been examined in organic phases. TCFH chromophore showed a successful gelation ability of different organic solvents. In addition, responsiveness of TCFH to nerve agent mimic with a gel‐sol reversible switching was monitored associated with colorimetric shifting from yellow to blue. The supramolecular self‐assembly of TCFH occurs via van der Waals interactions as well as cooperative π‐π stacking leading to gel formation in organic solvents. Moreover, the existence of nerve agents‐based gases results in a remarkable variation in the rheological behavior of the tricyanofuran hydrazone‐based gel. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images demonstrated that the xerogel generated from n‐propanol (n‐PrOH) is able to create fibrous supramolecular architecture with the ability for naked‐eye detection of a nerve agent mimic. The development of TCFH‐based supramolecular organogel in organic solvents was disturbed by the nerve agent mimic presenting a novel detection technique for organophosphorus warfare agents.
Click Synthesis of Novel 3‐(2‐(2,4,5‐Triphenyl‐1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl)ethyl)‐1H‐indoles Catalyzed by Glacial Acetic Acid and their Antibacterial Evaluation
Authors: Tamilselvi Velmurugan , Lalitha Appaswami
Published: March 2021

In this communication, we wish to report a click, simple and efficient one‐pot four component synthesis of a new series of 3‐(2‐(2,4,5‐triphenyl‐1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl)ethyl)‐1H‐indoles using catalytic quantity of acetic acid. The synthesized compounds were evaluated for their in‐vitro antibacterial activity against gram‐positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and gram‐negative (Escherichia coli) bacteria. Tetracycline was used as standard in this antibacterial investigation. The present protocol has several advantages such as excellent yields, very shorter reaction time, operational simplicity, mild reaction conditions, easy work up, inexpensive, easily available catalyst and starting materials, a cleaner reaction media and no need for any chromatographic separation techniques. The synthesized compounds were characterized by 1H, 13C‐NMR and ESI‐MS analyses.
Crystallization of Sodium Bicarbonate in the Presence of Trace Amounts of HPMA
Authors: Sun Weiwei , Liu Qiaoqiao , Lin Guihong , Zhou Jian , Huang Liangliang , Liu Chang
Published: March 2021

The effect of trace amounts of hydrolytic polymaleic anhydride (HPMA) on the crystallization of sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) has been investigated by molecular simulation and experimental methods. Cooling crystallization experiments show that the trace HPMA molecule effectively promotes the formation of larger NaHCO3 crystals. Besides, the crystal morphology changes from needle‐like to flake‐like. The determination of the metastable zone width of NaHCO3 and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) observation confirmed that the spontaneous nucleation processes are suppressed. Molecule simulation was used to explore the interaction of HPMA molecule and different crystal faces of NaHCO3. It was found that the binding energy between HPMA and NaHCO3 surface is greater than the corresponding attachment energy of NaHCO3 surface. The electrostatic interaction energy between double‐bonded oxygen on the HPMA molecule and the Na+ of the NaHCO3 crystal plane plays a dominant role in the additive molecule‘s adsorption on the NaHCO3 crystal surface. This work suggests that HPMA could serve as an inhibitor of nucleation and impact NaHCO3 crystallization.
Accelerated Thermal Aging Effects on Carbon‐Based Perovskite Solar Cells: A Joint Experimental and Theoretical Analysis
Authors: Pica Giovanni , Degani Matteo , Schileo Giorgio , Girella Alessandro , Milanese Chiara , Martineau David , Andreani Lucio C. , Grancini Giulia
Published: March 2021

In the search for stable perovskite photovoltaic technology, carbon‐based perovskite solar cells (C‐PSCs) represent a valid, stable solution for near‐future commercialization. However, a complete understanding of the operational device stability calls for assessing the device robustness under thermal stress. Herein, the device response is monitored upon a prolonged thermal cycle aging (heating the device for 1 month up to 80 °C) on state‐of‐the‐art C‐PSCs, often neglected, mimicking outdoor conditions. Device characterization is combined with in‐house‐developed advanced modeling of the current–voltage characteristics of the C‐PSCs using an iterative fitting method based on the single‐diode equation to extrapolate series (RS) and shunt (RSH) resistances. Two temperature regimes are identified: Below 50 °C C‐PSCs are stable, and switching to 80 °C a slow device degradation takes place. This is associated with a net decrease of the device RSH, whereas the RS is unaltered, pointing to interface deterioration. Indeed, structural and optical analyses, by means of X‐ray diffraction and photoluminescence studies, reveal no degradation of the perovskite bulk, providing clear evidence that perovskite/contact interfaces are the bottlenecks for thermal‐induced degradation in C‐PSCs.
An early‐diverging procolophonid from the lowermost Triassic of South America and the origins of herbivory in Procolophonoidea
Authors: Pinheiro Felipe L. , Silva‐Neves Eduardo , Da‐Rosa Átila A. S.
Published: March 2021

Procolophonoidea was the only parareptile clade to survive the end‐Permian mass extinction, and they experienced a major adaptive radiation during the Triassic. The flourishing of procolophonoid lineages in highly stressful post‐extinction environments may be, at least in part, a result of their early adaptations to herbivory, which would eventually become the most common feeding strategy in later representatives of the group. Although procolophonoids are comparatively diverse in the South African Lystrosaurus declivis Assemblage Zone, only the Gondwanan widespread taxon Procolophon trigoniceps has been thus far reported in South American deposits of similar age. Here, we present a new procolophonid genus and species from the Lower Triassic Sanga do Cabral Formation of Brazil. Oryporan insolitus gen. et sp. nov. combines typical adaptations suggestive of herbivory with primitive character states that are peculiar to early procolophonoids. Accordingly, phylogenetic analysis places the new species as an early‐diverging procolophonid, thus far the phylogenetically earliest to develop apparent adaptations for herbivory. Character optimization shows that the bulbous, labiolingually expanded molariforms of most procolophonids (usually interpreted as indicative of high‐fibre herbivory) were co‐opted from an insectivorous dentition. The new taxon also highlights the diversity of feeding habits displayed by Early Triassic procolophonoids, which was probably crucial for the survival of the clade in post‐extinction disaster communities.
Aligned Networks of Engineered Fibrillar Fibronectin Guide Cellular Orientation and Motility
Authors: Neale Dylan B. , Muñiz Ayşe J. , Jones Michael S. , Kim Do Hoon , Buschhaus Johanna M. , Humphries Brock A. , Wang William Y. , Baker Brendon M. , Raymond Jeffery E. , Solorio Luis , Luker Gary D. , Lahann Joerg
Published: March 2021

The extracellular matrix (ECM) influences biological processes associated with tissue development and disease progression. However, robust cell‐free techniques to control fiber alignment of naturally derived ECM proteins, such as fibronectin (Fn), remain elusive. It is demonstrated that controlled hydrodynamics of Fn solutions at the air/fluid interface of porous tessellated polymer scaffolds (TPSs) generates suspended 3D fibrillar networks with alignment across multiple length scales (<1, 1–20 μm, extended to >1 mm). The direction of the fluid flow and the architecture of the polymeric supports influence protein solution flow profiles and, subsequently, the alignment of insoluble Fn fibrils. Aligned networks of fibrillar Fn characteristically alter fibroblast phenotype, indicated by increased directional orientation, enhanced nuclear and cytoskeletal polarity, and highly anisotropic and persistent cell motility when compared with nonaligned 3D networks and 2D substrates. Engineered extracellular matrices (EECMs) establish a critically needed tool for both fundamental and applied cell biology studies, with potential applications in diverse areas such as cancer biology and regenerative medicine.
Semi‐precast segmental bridges: Development of a new construction method using thin‐walled prefabricated concrete elements
Authors: Fasching Stephan , Huber Tobias , Rath Michael , Kollegger Johann
Published: March 2021

In order to understand the overall picture, the different technologies for the use of thin‐walled prefabricated elements in bridge construction as well as the first‐time application of them in a bridge project in Austria are described in this paper. Thereafter a newly developed construction method for the on‐site fabrication of lightweight box‐shaped segments from thin‐walled concrete elements, strengthened with steel girders, is explained with the focus lying on the construction of a prototype in a 1:1 scaling. The conceptional design, the manufacturing in a prefabrication plant in Austria and the transport to a construction site are illustrated. Finally, an application example of the new technology is shown based on a design using the incremental launching method. The research confirms the feasibility of the on‐site assembly of segments from thin‐walled prefabricated elements and that this construction method, once minor constructive details will be solved in the ongoing research project, has great potential for a broad application in bridge construction.
Population measures of subjective cognitive decline: A means of advancing public health policy to address cognitive health
Authors: Olivari Benjamin S. , Baumgart Matthew , Taylor Christopher A. , McGuire Lisa C.
Published: March 2021

Subjective cognitive decline (SCD) is receiving increasing attention as studies have suggested that SCD status is associated with risk of future cognitive decline and dementia. Population‐based measures of SCD can be extremely useful to the public health community, health‐care providers, researchers, and policymakers. A large population‐based SCD measure now exists through the state‐based Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). All 50 states have included the cognitive decline module, which asks about SCD, to their BRFSS survey one or more times. Population measures of SCD can aid researchers in designing clinical studies by better estimating the populations that may be at risk for more severe cognitive decline based on their SCD status to ensure that the optimal groups are targeted. Population‐level estimates of SCD can also help to inform health‐care providers’ decisions about initiating cognitive assessments, managing other conditions among those with memory problems, and identifying the needs of caregivers.
Tumours in 177 pet hamsters
Authors: Rother Nancy , Bertram Christof A. , Klopfleisch Robert , Fragoso‐Garcia Marco , Bomhard Wolf V. , Schandelmaier Claudia , Müller Kerstin
Published: March 2021

Background: Even though tumours are considered to occur frequently in pet hamsters, there is only a small number of scientific reports in current literature.

Methods: Pathological reports from 177 hamsters were evaluated.

Results: Of these, 78 were male and 75 were female. Median age of affected hamsters was 12 months (range 2–34). Integumental tumours were the most common neoplasms (62%, 109/177). As far as species was known, the number of Syrian hamsters (52%, 30/58) affected by tumours seemed to be lower than the number of affected dwarf hamsters (85%, 47/55). Tumours of the hematopoietic system were the second most frequently neoplasms (17%, 30/177). Relative number of neoplasms of the endocrine system, tumours of the digestive system (1.7%, 3/177) and other tumours (4%, 7/177 each) was low. The majority of integumental tumours were epithelial (66%; 91/126).

Conclusion: This study aimed to analyze data from veterinary surgeries and pathological institutes about the occurrence of spontaneous tumours in Syrian hamsters and dwarf hamsters to give information about the frequency of tumours, prognosis and survival time. This is the first study about tumours in pet hamsters in Germany so far.
Time series analysis via network science: Concepts and algorithms
Authors: Silva Vanessa Freitas , Silva Maria Eduarda , Ribeiro Pedro , Silva Fernando
Published: March 2021

There is nowadays a constant flux of data being generated and collected in all types of real world systems. These data sets are often indexed by time, space, or both requiring appropriate approaches to analyze the data. In univariate settings, time series analysis is a mature field. However, in multivariate contexts, time series analysis still presents many limitations. In order to address these issues, the last decade has brought approaches based on network science. These methods involve transforming an initial time series data set into one or more networks, which can be analyzed in depth to provide insight into the original time series. This review provides a comprehensive overview of existing mapping methods for transforming time series into networks for a wide audience of researchers and practitioners in machine learning, data mining, and time series. Our main contribution is a structured review of existing methodologies, identifying their main characteristics, and their differences. We describe the main conceptual approaches, provide authoritative references and give insight into their advantages and limitations in a unified way and language. We first describe the case of univariate time series, which can be mapped to single layer networks, and we divide the current mappings based on the underlying concept: visibility, transition, and proximity. We then proceed with multivariate time series discussing both single layer and multiple layer approaches. Although still very recent, this research area has much potential and with this survey we intend to pave the way for future research on the topic.

This article is categorized under:

Fundamental Concepts of Data and Knowledge > Data Concepts

Fundamental Concepts of Data and Knowledge > Knowledge Representation
The Feynman rules for the SMEFT in the background field gauge
Authors: Corbett Tyler
Published: March 2021

Abstract

We present a package for FeynRules which derives the Feynman rules for the Standard Model Effective Field Theory up to dimension-six using the background field method for gauge fixing. The package includes operators which shift the kinetic and mass terms of the Lagrangian up to dimension-eight and including dimension-six squared effects consistently. To the best of the author’s knowledge this is the first publicly available package to include dimension-six squared effects consistently. The package is validated in a partner publication by analyzing the Ward Identities at dimension-six and one-loop order. We also extend the partner work in this article by including the dimension-six squared effects further demonstrating the consistency of their implementation. In doing so we find that failure to consistently include field shifts to dimension-six squared causes a breakdown in the Ward identities implying concerns about many calculations in the literature which do not properly incorporate these effects.

The FeynRules files, as well as Mathematica notebooks performing the relevant calculations, can be downloaded from the FeynRules website and are included as supplementary material to this publication.
Improvement of Medicago sativa Crops Productivity by the Co-inoculation of Sinorhizobium meliloti–Actinobacteria Under Salt Stress
Authors: Saidi Samira , Cherif-Silini Hafsa , Chenari Bouket Ali , Silini Allaoua , Eshelli Manal , Luptakova Lenka , Alenezi Faizah N. , Belbahri Lassaad
Published: March 2021

Biotic and abiotic stresses are severely limiting plant production and productivity. Of notable importance is salt stress that not only limits plant growth and survival, but affects the soil fertility and threatens agricultural ecosystems sustainability. The problem is exacerbated in fragile arid and semi-arid areas where high evaporation, low precipitation and the use of salty water for irrigation is accelerating soil salinization. Legumes, considered very nutritious foods for people and providing essential nutrients for ecosystems are a fundamental element of sustainable agriculture. They can restore soil health by their ability to fix nitrogen in a symbiotic interaction with the rhizobia of the soil. However, salt stress is severely limiting productivity and nitrogen fixation ability in legumes. Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and mainly actinobacteria promote plant growth by producing phytohormones, siderophores, antibiotics and antifungal compounds, solubilizing phosphate and providing antagonism to phytopathogenic microorganisms. In addition, actinobacteria have beneficial effects on nodulation and growth of legumes. In this study, actinobacteria isolated from different niches and having PGP activities were used in co-inoculation experiments with rhizobia in Medicago sativa plants rhizosphere submitted to salt stress. The results indicate that drought- and salinity-tolerant Actinobacteria with multiple PGP traits can potentially increase alfalfa growth under saline conditions, in the presence or absence of symbiotic rhizobial bacteria. Actinobacteria discovered in this study can, therefore, be suitable biofertilizers in the formulation of agricultural products improving plant development, health and productivity in saline soils, a necessary alternative for modern agriculture and sustainable development.
Stereoscopic PIV measurements using low-cost action cameras
Authors: Käufer Theo , König Jörg , Cierpka Christian
Published: March 2021

Recently, large progress was made in the development towards low-cost PIV (Particle Image Velocimetry) for industrial and educational applications. This paper presents the use of two low-cost action cameras for stereoscopic planar PIV. A continuous wave laser or alternatively an LED was used for illumination and pulsed by a frequency generator. A slight detuning of the light pulsation and camera frame rate minimizes systematic errors by the rolling shutter effect and allows for the synchronization of both cameras by postprocessing without the need of hardware synchronization. The setup was successfully qualified on a rotating particle pattern in a planar and stereoscopic configuration as well as on the jet of an aquarium pump. Since action cameras are intended to be used at outdoor activities, they are small, very robust and work autarkic. In conjunction with the synchronization and image pre-processing scheme presented herein, those cameras enable stereoscopic PIV in harsh environments and even on moving experiments.

Graphic abstract
Transrectal endoscopic drainage with vacuum-assisted therapy in patients with anastomotic leaks following rectal cancer resection
Authors: Jagielski Mateusz , Piątkowski Jacek , Jarczyk Grzegorz , Jackowski Marek
Published: March 2021

Background

Surgery is the gold standard for the treatment of malignant tumors of the rectum. Intestinal anastomotic leakage remains a serious complication of colorectal surgery. The efficacy and safety of transrectal endoscopic drainage by vacuum therapy in patients with intestinal anastomotic leakage after surgical treatment of middle and distal rectal tumors were assessed.

Methods

Prospective analysis of treatment outcomes among patients undergoing surgery for middle and distal rectal tumors at the Department of General, Gastroenterological, and Oncological Surgery of the Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz and Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun from 2016 to 2019 was conducted.

Results

Seventy-nine patients with middle and distal rectal tumors underwent laparoscopic resection. Intestinal anastomotic leak was identified in 18 (22.79%) patients [all men, mean age 61.39 (43–86) years] during the postoperative period. Primary protective ileostomy was performed in 8/18 (44.44%) patients. All 18 patients were treated with endoluminal vacuum therapy via transrectal endoscopic drainage. The mean time from surgery to the diagnosis of leakage and initiation of endoscopic treatment was 16 (3–728) days. The mean number of endoscopic procedures per patient was 6 (1–11). The mean duration of endoscopic treatment was 22 (4–43) days. Complications of endotherapy occurred in 2/18 (11.11%) patients treated endoscopically for bleeding from the abscess cavity. Success of endoluminal vacuum therapy was achieved in 17/18 (94.44%) patients. Moreover, 5/18 (27.78%) patients required ileostomy during the endoscopic treatment. The mean follow-up period was 368 (118–724) days. Long-term success of transrectal endoscopic drainage using vacuum-assisted therapy was achieved in 15/18 (83.33%) patients.

Conclusions

Endoscopic rectal drainage using vacuum-assisted therapy is an effective and safe minimally invasive treatment in patients with intestinal anastomotic leaks following resection procedures within the middle and distal rectum.
The role of benzydamine in prevention and treatment of chemoradiotherapy-induced mucositis
Authors: Nicolatou-Galitis Ourania , Bossi Paolo , Orlandi Ester , René-Jean Bensadoun
Published: March 2021

Purpose

To discuss the role of benzydamine in the prevention and treatment of radiation-induced oral mucositis (OM) in head and neck (H&N) cancer patients. This document represents an expert opinion paper on indications and key-role aspects in OM pathogenesis, prevention and treatment.

Oral mucositis

OM represents a common side effect of chemotherapy (CHT) and radiotherapy (RT). It consists in a painful erythema involving the oral cavity mucosa, which may progress to ulceration. Five biologically dynamic phases are considered crucial in mucositis: “initiation, signalling, amplification, ulceration and healing”. Oral environment and microbiota are fundamental in mucositis development being involved in susceptibility to infections and in ulceration consequences. Different agents against mucositis have been studied and the use of benzydamine is strongly supported in literature. The Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer and International Society for Oral Oncology (MASCC/ISOO) guidelines recommend its use for the prevention of OM in H&N patients undergoing RT and RT/CHT.

Benzydamine

Benzydamine is a local anti-inflammatory drug with analgesic properties. It can decrease TNF-α, IL-1β and prostaglandin synthesis, also inhibiting leukocyte-endothelial interactions, neutrophil degranulation, vasodilation and vascular permeability. Literature agrees on the beneficial effects of benzydamine in preventing and reducing oral mucositis severity in H&N cancer patients undergoing RT/CHT.

Conclusions

Mucositis represents a major concern in H&N cancer patients and a clinical and economical issue. A multimodal and multidisciplinary approach is needed for its management. International guidelines recommend benzydamine for OM prevention and treatment in H&N cancer patients, but further “real world” trials should be designed.
High carbon-di-oxide modified atmospheric packaging on quality of ready-to-eat minimally processed fresh-cut iceberg lettuce
Authors: Haque Md. Azizul , Asaduzzaman Md. , Mahomud Md. Sultan , Alam Md. Rizvi , Khaliduzzaman Alin , Pattadar Shib Nath , Ahmmed Raju
Published: March 2021

Fresh-cut lettuce is a very well-known salad for today's routines because it obliges minimal preparation to minimize the loss of health beneficial vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and other phytochemicals. It is a prodigious challenge to serve its consumers fresh. Quality of freshly processed lettuce under high CO2 modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) has been investigated as a realistic alternative technique for its preservation. Storage under high CO2 atmospheric treatments exhibited a significant impact in microbial development, electrolyte leakage, volatile metabolites and sensory quality of fresh-cut iceberg lettuce. This storage condition (MAP 1: 5 kPa O2 and 20 kPa CO2 balanced by N2 at 7 °C for 6 days) inhibited the growth of mesophilic bacteria and yeasts; delayed the enzymatic browning (cut-edges and intact surface) of fresh-cut iceberg lettuce and overall visual quality was also in acceptance limit. The development of off-odors was perceived in high CO2 MAP as a consequence of volatiles (ethanol and acetaldehyde) accumulation which was persisted at an inexcusable level during 6 days of storage periods.
Climate change management: a resilience strategy for flood risk using Blockchain tools
Authors: Vannucci Emanuele , Pagano Andrea Jonathan , Romagnoli Francesco
Published: March 2021

This work aims to offer a contribution in the analysis and management, from an economic and financial point of view, of the flood risk, and extended to the hydrogeological risk, from the perspective of a public administration. As main responsible actor for containing the phenomenon through the maintenance of the territory, public administration is responsible for the cost of restoring of the services that have been damaged by this type of phenomenon. The assets of which the public administration must ensure the restoration are all public infrastructures (i.e. transportation, energy and water supply system, communication) together with the damage suffered by private property, if these affect services to be guaranteed to the population. In this work, the authors propose possible strategies that a public administration can put in place to deal with flood risk. Three main strategies are analysed: an absolute passivity that provides for the payment of damages as they occur (i.e. business-as-usual scenario), a classic insurance scheme, a resilient and innovative insurance scheme. The economic–financial profiles of these strategies proposed in this work put an emphasis on how the assumption of a time horizon can change the convenience of one strategy compared to the others. This study highlights the key role of the quantification of flood risk mitigation measure from an engineering perspective, and their potential issues to pursue these objectives in connection to the regulatory framework of the public administrations. This synergy is supported by the potential use of Blockchain-based tools. Within the paper is highlighted the key role that such platform IT data management platform could have within risk analysis and management schemes, both as a data collection tool and as certification of the various steps necessary to complete the process.
Transition models for count data: a flexible alternative to fixed distribution models
Authors: Berger Moritz , Tutz Gerhard
Published: March 2021

A flexible semiparametric class of models is introduced that offers an alternative to classical regression models for count data as the Poisson and Negative Binomial model, as well as to more general models accounting for excess zeros that are also based on fixed distributional assumptions. The model allows that the data itself determine the distribution of the response variable, but, in its basic form, uses a parametric term that specifies the effect of explanatory variables. In addition, an extended version is considered, in which the effects of covariates are specified nonparametrically. The proposed model and traditional models are compared in simulations and by utilizing several real data applications from the area of health and social science.
The Perforation Resistance of Aluminum-Based Thermoplastic FMLs
Authors: Nassir Nassier. A. , Birch R. S. , Cantwell W. J. , Al Teneiji M. , Guan Z. W.
Published: March 2021

The perforation resistance of fibre metal laminates (FMLs) made of an S-glass fibre reinforced poly-ether-ketone-ketone (GF/PEKK) composite and an aluminium alloy (2024-T3) is investigated. Initial attention is focused on assessing the effect of the processing temperature on the tensile strength of the aluminium alloy. Here, it has shown that the processing cycle results in a reduction of approximately 35% in both the tensile strength and yield strength of the aluminium alloy. A comparison of the quasi-static and dynamic perforation responses of the FMLs highlighted the rate-sensitivity of these laminates, with the perforation energy increasing as the loading rate varies from quasi-static to impact. After testing, the FML specimens were sectioned to highlight the prevailing failure modes. An examination of the cross-sections indicated that the impact energy of the projectile is absorbed through plastic deformation and tearing of the metal layers, delamination between the composite plies and metal layers as well as fibre fracture. Finite element models (FEM), using ABAQUS/Explicit, have been developed to predict the behaviour of the FMLs subjected to dynamic loading. The outputs of the FE models were then validated against the measured experimental force–displacement traces and the observed failure modes. The results of the FE models were in a good agreement with the experimental data, in terms of the initial stiffness, maximum force and maximum displacement, as well as the perforation mechanisms.
Levi Factors and Admissible Automorphisms
Authors: Chuah Meng-Kiat , Fioresi Rita
Published: March 2021

Let $\mathfrak {g}$
g
be a complex simple Lie algebra. We consider subalgebras $\mathfrak {m}$
m
which are Levi factors of parabolic subalgebras of $\mathfrak {g}$
g
, or equivalently $\mathfrak {m}$
m
is the centralizer of its center. We introduced the notion of admissible systems on finite order $\mathfrak {g}$
g
-automorphisms 𝜃, and show that 𝜃 has admissible systems if and only if its fixed point set is a Levi factor. We then use the extended Dynkin diagrams to characterize such automorphisms, and look for automorphisms of minimal order.
Oribatid mite communities in mountain scree: stable isotopes (15N, 13C) reveal three trophic levels of exclusively sexual species
Authors: Nae Ioana , Nae Augustin , Scheu Stefan , Maraun Mark
Published: March 2021

Mountain scree habitats are intermediate habitats between the base of the soil and the bedrock. They are composed of a network of small cracks and voids, and are commonly situated at the lower levels of scree slopes. Their environment is defined by empty spaces inside the scree, the absence of light and photoperiod, low temperature, and resource poor conditions. Soil arthropod communities, their trophic structure as well as their use of basal resources in mountain scree are little studied despite the fact that they are important components of these systems. Here, we investigate stable isotope ratios (15N/14N,13C/12C) of oribatid mites (Oribatida, Acari) to understand their trophic niches and their variation with depth (50 and 75 cm) at two mountain scree sites (Cerdacul Stanciului, Marele Grohotis) in the Romanian Carpathians. Further, we used existing data to investigate the reproductive mode of the species in that habitat, as this may be related to resource availability. We hypothesized that trophic niches of oribatid mites will not differ between the two mountain scree regions but will be affected by depth. We furthermore hypothesized that due to the resource poor conditions oribatid mite species will span a narrow range of trophic levels, and that species are sexual rather than parthenogenetic. Our results showed that (1) oribatid mite trophic structure only slightly differed between the two sites indicating that the trophic ecology of oribatid mites in scree habitats is consistent and predictable, (2) oribatid mite trophic structure did not differ between the two studied soil depths indicating that the structure and availability of resources that were used by oribatid mites in deeper scree habitats varies little with depth, (3) oribatid mite species spanned only three trophic levels indicating that the habitat is rather resource poor, and (4) that all studied oribatid mite species were sexual supporting the view that resource poor conditions favour sexual reproduction.
Combatting institutional corruption: The policy-centered approach
Authors: Martinsson Joel
Published: March 2021

How can institutional corruption be combatted? While recent years have seen a growth in anti-corruption literature, examples of countries rooting out systemic corruption remain few. The lack of success stories has sparked an academic debate about the theoretical foundations of anti-corruption frameworks: primarily between proponents of the principal-agent framework and those seeing systemic corruption as the result of collective-action problems. Through an analysis of current principal-agent and collective action anti-corruption literature, this article adds two additional arguments to the debate: (a) the need to specify what one talks about when talking about systemic corruption and (b) the necessity to move beyond the principal-agent versus collective action frameworks dichotomy towards a policy-centered approach for how to combat institutional corruption. Having outlined how institutional corruption can be seen as one type of systemic corruption, this article shows how a policy-centered approach such as strengthening the appearance standard through an independent public commission can address theoretical mechanisms emphasized in each anti-corruption framework–thus arguing that the frameworks complement rather than rival each other. The article ends by arguing for an anti-corruption discourse acknowledging that a multifaceted problem such as corruption requires multiple frameworks rather than attempts for silver-bullet explanations.
Novel ORAI1 Mutation Disrupts Channel Trafficking Resulting in Combined Immunodeficiency
Authors: Yu Fang , Agrebi Nourhen , Mackeh Rafah , Abouhazima Khaled , KhudaBakhsh Khadija , Adeli Mehdi , Lo Bernice , Hassan Amel , Machaca Khaled
Published: March 2021

Store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) represents a predominant Ca2+ influx pathway in non-excitable cells. SOCE is required for immune cell activation and is mediated by the plasma membrane (PM) channel ORAI1 and the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca2+ sensor STIM1. Mutations in the Orai1 or STIM1 genes abolish SOCE leading to combined immunodeficiency (CID), muscular hypotonia, and anhidrotic ectodermal dysplasia. Here, we identify a novel autosomal recessive mutation in ORAI1 in a child with CID. The patient is homozygous for p.C126R mutation in the second transmembrane domain (TM2) of ORAI1, a region with no previous loss-of-function mutations. SOCE is suppressed in the patient’s lymphocytes, which is associated with impaired T cell proliferation and cytokine production. Functional analyses demonstrate that the p.C126R mutation does not alter protein expression but disrupts ORAI1 trafficking. Orai1-C126R does not insert properly into the bilayer resulting in ER retention. Insertion of an Arg on the opposite face of TM2 (L135R) also results in defective folding and trafficking. We conclude that positive side chains within ORAI1 TM2 are not tolerated and result in misfolding, defective bilayer insertion, and channel trafficking thus abolishing SOCE and resulting in CID.
Controllability Properties and Invariance Pressure for Linear Discrete-Time Systems
Authors: Colonius Fritz , Cossich João A. N. , Santana Alexandre J.
Published: March 2021

For linear control systems in discrete time controllability properties are characterized. In particular, a unique control set with nonvoid interior exists and it is bounded in the hyperbolic case. Then a formula for the invariance pressure of this control set is proved.
Technology Acceptance of a Machine Learning Algorithm Predicting Delirium in a Clinical Setting: a Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Jauk Stefanie , Kramer Diether , Avian Alexander , Berghold Andrea , Leodolter Werner , Schulz Stefan
Published: March 2021

Early identification of patients with life-threatening risks such as delirium is crucial in order to initiate preventive actions as quickly as possible. Despite intense research on machine learning for the prediction of clinical outcomes, the acceptance of the integration of such complex models in clinical routine remains unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate user acceptance of an already implemented machine learning-based application predicting the risk of delirium for in-patients. We applied a mixed methods design to collect opinions and concerns from health care professionals including physicians and nurses who regularly used the application. The evaluation was framed by the Technology Acceptance Model assessing perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, actual system use and output quality of the application. Questionnaire results from 47 nurses and physicians as well as qualitative results of four expert group meetings rated the overall usefulness of the delirium prediction positively. For healthcare professionals, the visualization and presented information was understandable, the application was easy to use and the additional information for delirium management was appreciated. The application did not increase their workload, but the actual system use was still low during the pilot study. Our study provides insights into the user acceptance of a machine learning-based application supporting delirium management in hospitals. In order to improve quality and safety in healthcare, computerized decision support should predict actionable events and be highly accepted by users.