bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nitrates in combination with hydralazine in cardiorenal syndrome: a randomized controlled proof‐of‐concept study
Authors: Lim Shir Lynn , Gandhi Mihir , Woo Kai Lee , Chua Horng Ruey , Lim Yoke Ching , Sim David K.L. , Lee Sheldon S.G. , Teoh Yee Leong , Richards Arthur Mark , Lam Carolyn S.P.
Published: November 2020

Aims

Cardiorenal syndrome (CRS) is a common problem of great morbidity and mortality. Hydralazine–isosorbide dinitrate (H‐ISDN) may be used in renal failure and may improve exercise capacity in heart failure (HF). Our proof‐of‐concept study aimed to evaluate early evidence of efficacy, safety, and feasibility of H‐ISDN compared with standard of care in CRS.

Methods and results

This multi‐centre, single‐blind, randomized trial in Singapore enrolled CRS patients, defined as chronic HF with concomitant renal failure [estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 60 ml/min/1.73 m2]. The primary outcome was 6 min walk test (6MWT) distance measured at 6 months. Secondary outcomes included study feasibility; efficacy outcomes which included renal, cardiac, and endothelial functions, health‐related quality of life using Short Form‐36, clinical outcomes; and adverse events. Forty‐four patients [71 ± 10 years; 75% male; median (inter‐quartile range) N‐terminal prohormone brain natriuretic peptide 1346 (481–2272) pg/mL] with CRS (left ventricular ejection fraction 42 ± 12% and eGFR 46 ± 15 ml/min/1.73 m2) were randomized into two equal groups. Of these, 39 (89%) had hypertension, 27 (61%) had diabetes mellitus, and 17 (39%) had atrial fibrillation. Six (27%) discontinued H‐ISDN owing to intolerance and poor compliance. There was a trend towards improved 6MWT distance with H‐ISDN compared with standard of care at 6 months (mean difference 27 m; 95% CI, −12 to 66), with little differences in secondary efficacy outcomes. Giddiness and hypotension occurred more frequently with H‐ISDN, but HF hospitalizations and mortality were less.

Conclusions

Our pilot study does not support the addition of H‐ISDN on top of standard medical therapy to improve exercise capacity in patients with CRS.
Gurum Seeds: A Potential Source of Edible Oil
Authors: Karrar Emad , Ahmed Isam A. Mohamed , Manzoor Muhammad Faisal , Sarpong Frederick , Wei Wei , Wang Xingguo
Published: November 2020

Cucurbitaceae family seeds are mostly discarded as agro‐industrial wastes. Gurum (Citrullus lanatus var. colocynthoide) is an underutilized wild cucurbit plant, closely related to desert watermelon, which is grown abundantly in some African countries. Gurum seeds can play a significant role in health and nutrition due to their high oil content. This review describes the nutritional composition of gurum seeds and their oil profile. Gurum seeds are a good source of oil (27–35.5%), fiber (26–31%), crude protein (15–18%), and carbohydrates (14–17%). Gurum seeds oil is extracted by supercritical CO2 (SFE), screw press, and solvent extraction techniques. The gurum seeds oil is composed of unsaturated fatty acids with a high proportion of linoleic acid (C18:2) and oleic acid (C18:1). Gurum seeds oil contains various bioactive compounds, such as tocopherols, phytosterols, and polyphenols. It is reported that solvent extraction gives a higher yield than the screw press and SFE, but the SFE is preferred due to safety issues. More studies are required for producing better quality gurum seeds oil by using novel extraction techniques that can increase oil yield.
Analysis of microorganisms with nonlinear electrokinetic microsystems
Authors: Hakim Kel S. , Lapizco‐Encinas Blanca H.
Published: November 2020

Nonlinear electrokinetics (EK), specifically electrophoresis of the second kind, dielectrophoresis (DEP) and electrorotation (EROT), have gained significant interest recently for their flexibility and labeless discriminant manner of operation. The current applications of these technologies are a clear advancement from what they were when first discovered, but also still show strong signs of future growth. The present review article presents a discussion of the current uses of microscale nonlinear EK technologies as analytical, sensing, and purification tools for microorganisms. The discussion is focused on some of the latest discoveries with various nonlinear EK microfluidic techniques, such as DEP particle trapping and EROT for particle assessments, for the analysis of microorganisms ranging from viruses to parasites. Along the way, special focus was given to key research articles from within the past two years to provide the most up‐to‐date knowledge on the current state‐of‐the‐art within the field of microscale EK, and from there, an outlook on where the future of the field is headed is also included.
Experimental evaluation of the dry coal deshaling by pneumatic vibrating FGX separator on the CO2 gasification process
Authors: Czerski Grzegorz , Grzywacz Przemysław , Dziok Tadeusz , Śpiewak Katarzyna , Makowska Dorota
Published: November 2020

The dry deshaling process using the FGX method is a modern technique of coal quality enhancing without the use of water. The positive effect of this operation is the increase of calorific value and the removal of contaminants such as sulphur, chlorine, mercury and other heavy metals along with the separated gangue. However, elements such as sodium, potassium or calcium, considered as catalysts in the gasification process, are also partially removed. Consequently, the global effect of the dry deshaling on coal reactivity, being a key parameter determining its suitability for the gasification, is hard to predict. This study aims to determine the impact of dry deshaling of coal by FGX separator on its reactivity. Using TG analysis, 10 samples of coals from Polish mines, before and after the dry deshaling at commercially working FGX separator, were gasified in CO2 atmosphere under non‐isothermal conditions. The effect of deshaling on the basic properties of coals, ash composition and the content of contaminants such as sulphur and mercury, was also determined. The results showed slightly lower reactivity of clean coals. The values of kinetic parameters of gasification reaction were similar, or an increase in the activation energy value was compensated by the higher value of the pre‐exponential factor. The basic properties of coals and the content of sulphur and mercury have changed after the deshaling process, and the magnitude of these changes differed significantly among the samples analysed. The changes in the ash composition were insignificant. These results suggest that FGX technology may be an attractive way of coal preparing for the gasification, resulting in a reduction of by‐products and contaminants without adverse effect on coals reactivity.
Pilot Study Using Machine Learning to Identify Immune Profiles for the Prediction of Early Virological Relapse After Stopping Nucleos(t)ide Analogues in HBeAg-Negative CHB
Authors: Wübbolding Maximilian , Lopez Alfonso Juan Carlos , Lin Chun-Yen , Binder Sebastian , Falk Christine , Debarry Jennifer , Gineste Paul , Kraft Anke R.M. , Chien Rong-Nan , Maasoumy Benjamin , Wedemeyer Heiner , Jeng Wen-Juei , Hermann Michael Meyer , Cornberg Markus , zu Siederdissen Christoph Höner
Published: November 2020

Soluble immune markers (SIMs) are associated with the risk of virological relapse in HBeAg-negative patients with chronic hepatitis B after discontinuation of nucleos(t)ide analogue therapy. Machine learning identified a combination of five SIMs (IL-2, MIG, RANTES, SCF, and TRAIL), which are highly predictive for virological relapse (AUC 0.89; CI: 0.5-1.1) and can be validated in an independent cohort (AUC 0.63; CI: 0.1-0.99).

Treatment with nucleos(t)ide analogues (NAs) may be stopped after 1-3 years of hepatitis B virus DNA suppression in hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-negative patients according to Asian Pacific Association for the Study of Liver and European Association for the Study of Liver guidelines. However, virological relapse (VR) occurs in most patients. We aimed to analyze soluble immune markers (SIMs) and use machine learning to identify SIM combinations as predictor for early VR after NA discontinuation. A validation cohort was used to verify the predictive power of the SIM combination. In a post hoc analysis of a prospective, multicenter therapeutic vaccination trial (ABX-203, NCT02249988), hepatitis B surface antigen, hepatitis B core antigen, and 47 SIMs were repeatedly determined before NA was stopped. Forty-three HBeAg-negative patients were included. To detect the highest predictive constellation of host and viral markers, a supervised machine learning approach was used. Data were validated in a different cohort of 49 patients treated with entecavir. VR (hepatitis B virus DNA ≥ 2,000 IU/mL) occurred in 27 patients. The predictive value for VR of single SIMs at the time of NA stop was best for interleukin (IL)-2, IL-17, and regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted (RANTES/CCL5) with a maximum area under the curve of 0.65. Hepatitis B core antigen had a higher predictive power than hepatitis B surface antigen but lower than the SIMs. A supervised machine-learning algorithm allowed a remarkable improvement of early relapse prediction in patients treated with entecavir. The combination of IL-2, monokine induced by interferon γ (MIG)/chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 9 (CCL9), RANTES/CCL5, stem cell factor (SCF), and TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) was reliable in predicting VR (0.89; 95% confidence interval: 0.5-1.0) and showed viable results in the validation cohort (0.63; 0.1-0.99). Host immune markers such as SIMs appear to be underestimated in guiding treatment cessation in HBeAg-negative patients. Machine learning can help find predictive SIM patterns that allow a precise identification of patients particularly suitable for NA cessation.
Specialist oncological surgery for removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes in BRCA1 and BRCA2 pathogenic variant carriers may reduce primary peritoneal cancer risk to very low levels
Authors: Crosbie Emma J. , Flaum Nicola , Harkness Elaine F. , Clayton Richard D. , Holland Cathrine , Martin‐Hirsch Pierre , Wood Nick , Keating Patrick , Woodward Emma R. , Lalloo Fiona , Donnai Paul , Edmondson Richard J. , Evans D. Gareth
Published: November 2020

Risk‐reducing bilateral salpingo‐oophorectomy (RRBSO) is highly effective for the prevention of high‐grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) in BRCA1/2 pathogenic variant carriers (PVCs), but does not completely eliminate future risk of primary peritoneal cancer (PPC). The requirement to completely remove fallopian tubes at RRBSO and carefully exclude occult cancer/serous tubal intraepithelial carcinoma (STIC) lesions may not have been appreciated historically. We calculated rates of HGSOC and PPC in confirmed BRCA1/2 PVCs registered on the regional database in those who did (cases) and did not (controls) undergo RRBSO after genetic testing. Expected annual rates of ovarian/peritoneal cancer were 1% for BRCA1 ≥ 35 years and 0.5% for BRCA2 ≥ 45 years. Follow‐up before 35/45 years was “risk free” and lead time excluded RRBSO <35 years and <45 years for BRCA1 and BRCA2, respectively. Women were followed from personal mutation report (controls) or RRBSO (cases) to death, ovarian/peritoneal cancer or last follow‐up, whichever was sooner. In total, 891 cases (BRCA1 = 468, BRCA2 = 423) and 1302 controls had follow‐up ≥35 years (BRCA1 = 736) and ≥45 years (BRCA2 = 566), respectively, over a total of 7261.1 risk eligible years (mean = 8.15 years). Twenty‐one occult ovarian cancers were found at RRBSO (2.4%), 16 at stage 1. Post RRBSO, 56.97 ovarian/peritoneal cancers were expected but only 3 were observed (HR = 0.053; 95% CI = 0.013‐0.14), with combined Kaplan‐Meier analysis HR = 0.029 (95% CI = 0.009‐0.100, P < .001). Risk reduction was greater in specialist (HR = 0.03; 95% CI = 0.001‐0.13) compared to non‐specialist centres (HR = 0.11; 95% CI = 0.02‐0.37) (P = .07). In controls, 23.35 ovarian/peritoneal cancers were expected with 32 observed (HR = 1.37; 95% CI = 0.95‐1.91). RRBSO <35/<45 years reduces the risk of ovarian/peritoneal cancer by 95% in BRCA1/2 PVCs and may be greater in specialist centres.
The important roles of protein SUMOylation in the occurrence and development of leukemia and clinical implications
Authors: Zhao Biying , Zhang Zhenzhen , Chen Xu , Shen Yajie , Qin Yuanyuan , Yang Xinyi , Xing Zhengcao , Zhang Shanshan , Long Xiaojun , Zhang Yuhong , An Siming , Wu Hongmei , Qi Yitao
Published: November 2020

Leukemia is a severe malignancy of the hematopoietic system, which is characterized by uncontrolled proliferation and dedifferentiation of immature hematopoietic precursor cells in the lymphatic system and bone marrow. Leukemia is caused by alterations of the genetic and epigenetic regulation of processes underlying hematologic malignancies, including SUMO modification (SUMOylation). Small ubiquitin‐like modifier (SUMO) proteins covalently or noncovalently conjugate and modify a large number of target proteins via lysine residues. SUMOylation is a small ubiquitin‐like modification that is catalyzed by the SUMO‐specific activating enzyme E1, the binding enzyme E2, and the ligating enzyme E3. SUMO is covalently linked to substrate proteins to regulate the cellular localization of target proteins and the interaction of target proteins with other biological macromolecules. SUMOylation has emerged as a critical regulatory mechanism for subcellular localization, protein stability, protein–protein interactions, and biological function and thus regulates normal life activities. If the SUMOylation process of proteins is affected, it will cause a cellular reaction and ultimately lead to various diseases, including leukemia. There is growing evidence showing that a large number of proteins are SUMOylated and that SUMOylated proteins play an important role in the occurrence and development of various types of leukemia. Targeting the SUMOylation of proteins alone or in combination with current treatments might provide powerful targeted therapeutic strategies for the clinical treatment of leukemia.
Percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty attenuates poststenotic kidney mitochondrial damage in pigs with renal artery stenosis and metabolic syndrome
Authors: Farahani Rahele A. , Afarideh Mohsen , Zhu Xiang‐Yang , Tang Hui , Jordan Kyra L. , Saadiq Ishran M. , Ferguson Christopher M. , Lerman Amir , Textor Stephen C. , Lerman Lilach O. , Eirin Alfonso
Published: November 2020

Percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty (PTRA) has been used to treat renovascular disease (RVD), a chronic condition characterized by renal ischemia and metabolic abnormalities. Mitochondrial injury has been implicated as a central pathogenic mechanism in RVD, but whether it can be reversed by PTRA remains uncertain. We hypothesized that PTRA attenuates mitochondrial damage, renal injury, and dysfunction in pigs with coexisting renal artery stenosis (RAS) and metabolic syndrome (MetS). Four groups of pigs (n = 6 each) were studied after 16 weeks of diet‐induced MetS and RAS (MetS + RAS), MetS + RAS treated 4 weeks earlier with PTRA, and Lean and MetS Sham controls. Single‐kidney renal blood flow (RBF) and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) were assessed in vivo with multidetector computed tomography, and renal tubular mitochondrial structure and function and renal injury ex vivo. PTRA successfully restored renal artery patency, but mean arterial pressure remained unchanged. Stenotic kidney RBF and GFR, which fell in MetS + RAS compared to MetS, rose after PTRA. PTRA attenuated MetS + RAS‐induced mitochondrial structural abnormalities in tubular cells and peritubular capillary endothelial cells, decreased mitochondrial H202 production, and increased renal cytochrome‐c oxidase‐IV activity and ATP production. PTRA also improved cortical microvascular and peritubular capillary density and ameliorated tubular injury and tubulointerstitial fibrosis in the poststenotic kidney. Importantly, renal mitochondrial damage correlated with poststenotic injury and dysfunction. Renal revascularization attenuated mitochondrial injury and improved renal hemodynamics and function in swine poststenotic kidneys. This study suggests a novel mechanism by which PTRA might be relatively effective in ameliorating mitochondrial damage and improving renal function in coexisting MetS and RAS.
Using Monte Carlo experiments to select meta‐analytic estimators
Authors: Hong Sanghyun , Reed W. Robert
Published: November 2020

The purpose of this study is to show how Monte Carlo analysis of meta‐analytic estimators can be used to select estimators for specific research situations. Our analysis conducts 1620 individual experiments, where each experiment is defined by a unique combination of sample size, effect size, effect size heterogeneity, publication selection mechanism, and other research characteristics. We compare 11 estimators commonly used in medicine, psychology, and the social sciences. These are evaluated on the basis of bias, mean squared error (MSE), and coverage rates. For our experimental design, we reproduce simulation environments from four recent studies. We demonstrate that relative estimator performance differs across performance measures. Estimator performance is a complex interaction of performance indicator and aspects of the application. An estimator that may be especially good with respect to MSE may perform relatively poorly with respect to coverage rates. We also show that the size of the meta‐analyst's sample and effect heterogeneity are important determinants of relative estimator performance. We use these results to demonstrate how these observable characteristics can guide the meta‐analyst to choose the most appropriate estimator for their research circumstances.
Evaluation of temporal and spatial changes of global ecosystem health
Authors: Ran Chen , Wang Shijie , Bai Xiaoyong , Tan Qiu , Wu Luhua , Luo Xuling , Chen Huan , Xi Huipeng , Lu Qian
Published: November 2020

Understanding the spatial distribution pattern and driving factors behind ecosystem health is beneficial to ecosystem management and restoration. However, the literature shows little in‐depth exploration of regional heterogeneity and the factors that influence ecosystem health on a global scale. This study assesses global ecosystem health for the period 2000–2015 based on the vigor, organization, resilience, and service (VORS) model, and it explores the factors that influence regional differences in ecosystem health. Our results show that: (a) regions with high levels of ecosystem health are distributed mainly near the Equator and within the north–south regression line (0°N–13°N, 0°S–18°S); (b) seven critical zones with high levels of ecosystem health are identified (13°N–18°S, 45°N–65°N, 35°S–56°S, 47°W–80°W, 120°W–130°W, 8°E–37°E, 92°E–157°E); and (c) average annual precipitation and soil moisture play a key role in ecosystem health globally, with correlations of 0.574 and 0.399, respectively. Socioeconomic factors act as bridges, linking and reinforcing the influence of other factors in areas with medium to low levels of ecosystem health. Our study contributes to better understanding of ecosystem health, fills gaps in global ecosystem health diagnosis, and provides reference points for management and recovery of ecosystems.
Stable sediment retention and rapid economic growth occurred together from the end of the 1970s to 2015 in the Three Gorges Reservoir area
Authors: Li Shicheng , Liu Xin , Paudel Basanta , Xu Fei , Deng Qinghai
Published: November 2020

Studies of land use/cover change (LUCC) and its impact on sediment retention services (SRS) can provide references for governments to aid them in identifying priorities for conservation or development. We analysed the LUCC characteristics of the Three Gorges Reservoir area (TGRA) and their impact on SRS for the period from the end of the 1970s to 2015 using the Sediment Delivery Ratio model of the Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Tradeoffs, and we further explored the relationship between SRS and economic growth. Our major findings were as follows. (a) Expansion of construction land and waterbodies with gross rates of 9.245% and 0.950%, respectively, and conversion from cropland to forestland/grassland with an area of 41,379 ha constitute the three main LUCC characteristics in the TGRA. (b) The amount of sediment retention was stable at about 1.42 × 106 t ha−1yr−1 from the end of the 1970s to 2015, with a decrease of <1%. Spatially, ecological programmes resulted in an increase in SRS in the central areas of the TGRA, and urbanization undermined the capacity of SRS supply in the Chongqing urban centres. (c) SRS was concentrated in regions with an altitude of 500–2,200 m. As the slope increased, the percentage of grids with high SRS increased dramatically. (d) Stable SRS and rapid economic growth co‐occurred in TGRA from the end of the 1970s to 2015, which offers a positive reference for achieving sustainable development.
Primary Adrenal Insufficiency due to Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: More Common than We Thought
Authors: Salinas Carlos , Samtani Suraj , Burotto Mauricio
Published: November 2020

Immunotherapy has changed the treatment landscape for cancer patients; however, immune-related adverse events, such as primary and secondary adrenal insufficiency, can be life threatening, with potential differences in population incidence. This letter to the editor reports a real-world experience of Hispanic/Latino patients treated with immunotherapy and the incidence of adrenal insufficiency.
Long‐Term Observational Results from the ASPIRE Study: OnabotulinumtoxinA Treatment for Adult Lower Limb Spasticity
Authors: Esquenazi Alberto , Bavikatte Ganesh , Bandari Daniel S. , Jost Wolfgang H. , Munin Michael C. , Tang Simon Fuk Tan , Largent Joan , Adams Aubrey Manack , Zuzek Aleksej , Francisco Gerard E.
Published: November 2020

Introduction

OnabotulinumtoxinA treatment for spasticity varies according to numerous factors and is individualized to meet treatment goals.

Objective

To explore real‐world onabotulinumtoxinA utilization and effectiveness in patients with lower limb spasticity from the Adult Spasticity International Registry (ASPIRE) study.

Design

Two‐year, multicenter, prospective, observational registry (NCT01930786).

Setting

Fifty‐four international clinical sites.

Patients

Adults (naïve or non‐naïve to botulinum toxin[s] treatment for spasticity, across multiple etiologies) with lower limb spasticity related to upper motor neuron syndrome.

Interventions

OnabotulinumtoxinA administered at the clinician's discretion.

Main Outcome Measures

OnabotulinumtoxinA treatment utilization, clinician‐ and patient‐reported satisfaction.

Results

In ASPIRE, 530 patients received ≥1 onabotulinumtoxinA treatment for lower limb spasticity (mean age, 52 years; stroke, 49.4%; multiple sclerosis, 20.4%). Equinovarus foot was treated most often (80.9% of patients), followed by flexed knee (26.0%), stiff extended knee (22.5%), and flexed toes (22.3%). OnabotulinumtoxinA doses ranged between 10 and 1100 U across all presentations. Electromyography (EMG) was most commonly used for injection localization (≥41.1% of treatment sessions). Despite low patient response on the satisfaction questionnaire, clinicians (94.6% of treatment sessions) and patients (84.5%) reported satisfaction/extreme satisfaction that treatment helped manage spasticity, and clinicians (98.3%) and patients (91.6%) would probably/definitely continue onabotulinumtoxinA treatment. These data should be interpreted with care. Twenty‐one adverse events (AEs) in 18 patients (3.4%) were considered treatment‐related. Sixty‐seven patients (12.6%) reported 138 serious AEs; 3 serious AEs in two patients (0.4%) were considered treatment‐related. No new safety signals were identified.

Conclusions

ASPIRE provides long‐term observational data on the treatment of lower limb spasticity with onabotulinumtoxinA. Real‐world data from this primary analysis can help to guide the clinical use of onabotulinumtoxinA to improve spasticity management.
Lung ultrasound in bronchiolitis
Authors: La Regina Domenico Paolo , Bloise Silvia , Pepino Daniela , Iovine Elio , Laudisa Marco , Cristiani Luca , Nicolai Ambra , Nenna Raffaella , Mancino Enrica , Di Mattia Greta , Petrarca Laura , Matera Luigi , Frassanito Antonella , Midulla Fabio
Published: November 2020

Background

Bronchiolitis is the most common acute viral infection of the lower respiratory tract in infants. Clinical severity is associated with different risk factors; however, no clinical, laboratory, or radiological findings are able to predict the course of the disease in full‐term infants. Lung ultrasound (LUS) is a valid technique for the diagnosis and evaluation of pediatric respiratory diseases.

Aims

The aim of our study was to correlate an LUS score with a clinical score, to describe lung ultrasound findings in cases and controls, and to compare LUS findings with chest X‐ray (CXR) in infants hospitalized with bronchiolitis.

Methods

We conducted a single‐center, longitudinal, prospective study on 92 infants. Sixty‐three out of 92 infants were hospitalized for acute bronchiolitis (cases) and twenty‐nine out of 92 for diseases not involving the respiratory system (controls). All patients with bronchiolitis underwent a clinical evaluation with the assignment of a clinical severity score and performed lung ultrasound with the assignment of an LUS score. Twenty‐three out of 63 infants with bronchiolitis underwent also a CXR for clinical indications. Control infants performed only LUS.

Results

In infants with bronchiolitis LUS score showed a positive correlation with the clinical score (r = .62, p < .001) and the length of hospitalization (r = .42; p < .001). The need of oxygen therapy was more frequent in the patients with higher LUS score (p < .001). LUS findings observed in the cases were the presence of B‐lines, subpleural consolidations, and abnormalities of the pleural line. No LUS alterations were observed in the controls. In patients who performed LUS and CXR, we found a correlation between the presence of abnormalities of the pleural line with LUS and the presence of air trapping with CXR (r = .55; p = .007).
Plastic Dissipation and Hot‐Spot Formation in HMX‐Based PBXs Subjected to Low Velocity Impact
Authors: Drouet David , Picart Didier , Bailly Patrice , Bruneton Eric
Published: November 2020

Low‐velocity, shock‐free impact is one of the accidental loads that can lead to a thermal explosion, the latter being the consequence of a chain of mechanisms depending on the microstructure of the material. To investigate the causes, the predictive capability of numerical tools depends on the physics embedded in the models. While a consensus has developed around the concept of hot spots, the exact nature of the thermo‐mechanical heat‐generating processes that preceded them remains to be clarified. We are studying a composition similar to the PBX 9501. HMX crystals are mixed with a few percent of a polymer binder. Recent experiments (reverse edge‐on impact test) have revealed the influence of the plasticity of HMX grains even at low strain rates and low confinement. The heat released by the plastic dissipation has been identified as a potential candidate for the formation of hot spots. In this study, a numerical representation based on a polycrystalline β‐HMX material subjected to intense shear is presented. Due to the high pressure generated by the impact, the intergranular slip is ignored. Emphasis is placed on the heterogeneity resulting from the micro‐structural characteristics and the interaction between the anisotropic single crystals. The behavior of the binder and the influence of other heterogeneities such as friction or micro cracks are set aside. Finally, the mechanical dissipation is calculated in the models and the maximum temperature is deduced.
A Human Vascular Injury‐on‐a‐Chip Model of Hemostasis
Authors: Poventud‐Fuentes Izmarie , Kwon Keon Woo , Seo Jeongyun , Tomaiuolo Maurizio , Stalker Timothy J. , Brass Lawrence F. , Huh Dongeun
Published: November 2020

Hemostasis is an innate protective mechanism that plays a central role in maintaining the homeostasis of the vascular system during vascular injury. Studying this essential physiological process is often challenged by the difficulty of modeling and probing the complex dynamics of hemostatic responses in the native context of human blood vessels. To address this major challenge, this paper describes a microengineering approach for in vitro modeling of hemostasis. This microphysiological model replicates the living endothelium, multilayered microarchitecture, and procoagulant activity of human blood vessels, and is also equipped with a microneedle that is actuated with spatial precision to simulate penetrating vascular injuries. The system recapitulates key features of the hemostatic response to acute vascular injury as observed in vivo, including i) thrombin‐driven accumulation of platelets and fibrin, ii) formation of a platelet‐ and fibrin‐rich hemostatic plug that halts blood loss, and iii) matrix deformation driven by platelet contraction for wound closure. Moreover, the potential use of this model for drug testing applications is demonstrated by evaluating the effects of anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents that are in current clinical use. The vascular injury‐on‐a‐chip may serve as an enabling platform for preclinical investigation of hematological disorders and emerging therapeutic approaches against them.
The Journey of Higher Degree Apprenticeships
Authors: Hughes Claire , Saieva Gillian
Published: November 2020

Hughes and Saieva outline the history and rationale of the development of Higher Degree Apprenticeships (HDAs) as well as explore how to embed the real world ideologies to innovate curriculum. The necessity of strong support structures across the tripartite relationship to best meet the requirements of both apprentices and employers are also emphasised. The chapter will also review the added value that HDAs bring, not only to the individual apprentices, but to the organisations too, with the use of case studies and feedback from employers on the impact that the apprentice’s work-based learning journey. Reflections are provided on the lessons learnt so far and the chapter presents some of the main areas for consideration.
Making Inspiration Mainstream: Innovative Pedagogies for the Real World
Authors: Buckley Carina , Kukhareva Maria
Published: November 2020

Innovative pedagogies represent a flexible, student-centred approach to learning by focusing on authentic, situated, real world tasks, which are complex and non-linear. When contextualised with learning development, this type of real world learning allows for engagement that goes beyond the individual, beyond the curriculum and beyond the classroom.

This ‘beyondness’ of learning allows for alternative ways of seeing through the cross-pollination of disciplinary approaches, interactivity outside the subject group and flexibility in teaching spaces. The model presented makes explicit a learning community that exists beyond the immediate experience of the student. All three case studies present a means by which the student can negotiate their role and construct knowledge alongside others, in complex, dynamic and situated learning environments that value student-centred, emancipatory practices.
‘Getting to the Soul’: Radical Facilitation of ‘Real World’ Learning in Higher Education Programmes Through Reflective Practice
Authors: Trelfa Jo
Published: November 2020

This chapter foregrounds reflective practice as integral to ‘real world’ learning in higher education. Concerning the development of professional ‘artistry’ of and for post-degree life, literature focuses on the nature and form of reflective activities to foster student scrutiny therefore control of self and situation whilst engaged in real world learning. Yet, Trelfa’s doctoral research suggests the only real ‘learning’ is correct performance to pass their course. Reflective practice, and real world learning, has ‘lost its soul’. Drawing on Lefebvre’s (Rhythmanalysis: Space, time and everyday life. London: Continuum, 1992/2004) concept of ‘breaking-in’ to understand this soul-less situation (illustrated in case study one), Trelfa calls for it to be radically different: if real world learning is to live up to its name then its reflective practice needs to be authentic (illustrated in case study 2).
Real World Learning and Authentic Assessment
Authors: Archer Melenie , Morley Dawn A. , Souppez Jean-Baptiste R. G.
Published: November 2020

Archer, Morley and Souppez critique the value of building authentic assessment to reflect better a real world learning approach that prepares students more explicitly for employment after graduation. The two case studies within this chapter are drawn from the different disciplines of festival and event management and yacht design; both aim to prepare students for their respective industries from the onset of their degree programmes. The case studies present how the use of well-managed pedagogic strategies, such as peer review and assessment, reflective practice and the use of formative feedback, can prepare students successfully for authentic and high-risk summative assessments. The authors argue for a learning and teaching approach that emphasises sequential, real world assessment that focuses on student longitudinal development.
Internal Knowledge Transfer: Professional Development Programmes and Embedding Real World Learning for Full-Time Undergraduates
Authors: Perrin David , Hancock Connie , Miller Ruth
Published: November 2020

Perrin, Hancock and Miller provide a discussion of the distinctive features of negotiated work-based learning frameworks that help capture and develop learning for part-time students who are professional practitioners. They demonstrate how approaches to teaching, learning and assessment established in these frameworks can also be leveraged for programmes aimed at full-time undergraduate students wishing to engage with ‘real world’ learning. In this way, full-time students are able to develop the type of professional practice outlooks and skills redolent of part-time students already in employment. The chapter includes two case studies of where this has occurred in UK universities and the methods that were used for this type of internal knowledge transfer.
Forschungsdesign
Authors: Rutter Sabrina
Published: November 2020

Im Folgenden sollen mit Blick auf die im letzten Kapitel herausgearbeiteten Implikationen zunächst die Zielsetzung und Fragestellungen der vorliegenden Untersuchung konkretisiert werden. Daran anschließend wird der Untersuchungskontext, das Forschungsprojekt „Soziale Kompetenzen von Lehrkräften zur Entwicklung von Bildungschancen für Kinder in besonderen Lebenslagen (SKILL)“, vorgestellt. Nach der Beschreibung der Fallauswahl und der konkreten Zusammensetzung des Samples folgt eine ausführliche Erläuterung der Erhebungs- und Auswertungsmethode.
Fazit und Diskussion
Authors: Rutter Sabrina
Published: November 2020

Die vorliegende Arbeit hat sich mit den Fragen befasst, über welche habituellen Dispositionen die Lehrkräfte im Hinblick auf die Unterstützung sozial benachteiligter und bisher im Bildungssystem ausgegrenzter Schüler*innen verfügen und inwiefern diese handlungsleitenden Orientierungen milieuspezifisch eingebettet sind. Ziel der Arbeit war es, Passungskonstellationen zwischen Lehrkräften und Schüler*innen vertiefend zu analysieren und dabei nicht nur Formen der Differenzherstellung und Benachteiligung, sondern vor allem kompensatorische Bearbeitungsformen von Bildungsungleichheit in den Blick zu nehmen. Im Forschungsfokus standen somit bislang kaum untersuchte soziale Determinanten des Lehrer*innenhandelns im Kontext bereits vorhandener Ressourcen der pädagogischen Arbeit.
Wem gehören die Daten? – Rechtliche Aspekte der digitalen Souveränität in der Wirtschaft
Authors: Froese Julia , Straub Sebastian
Published: November 2020

Ausgehend von einer konkreten Diskussion in der Luftfahrtbranche über Zugriffs- und Nutzungsrechte an den Daten, die durch Flugzeuge generiert werden, nimmt dieser Beitrag die rechtlichen Aspekte rund um das Thema „Datenhoheit“ in den Blick. Aufbauend auf einer Darstellung der gegenwärtigen Rechts- und Interessenlage, allgemein und insbesondere in der Dreieckskonstellation Maschinenhersteller-Plattformbetreiber-Maschinennutzer in Bezug auf Rechte an Daten, werden Hinweise für eine mögliche vertragliche Ausgestaltung gegeben und bestehende Regelungslücken einschließlich ihrer möglichen Folgen aufgezeigt. Ferner wird kurz auf weitere, vom Ausgangsproblem mittelbar betroffene juristische Fragen eingegangen. Schließlich erfolgt eine Auseinandersetzung mit möglichen Ansätzen zur Beseitigung der bestehenden Regelungslücken, Rechtsunsicherheiten und daraus resultierender Probleme.
Intelligente Systeme für das Bauwesen: überschätzt oder unterschätzt?
Authors: Kropp Cordula , Wortmeier Ann-Kathrin
Published: November 2020

Der Einzug digitaler Technologien in die Baubranche verändert mit den Beziehungen zwischen Menschen und Maschinen auch die Handlungsfähigkeit der Beschäftigten. Neben Chancen auf Entlastung von schwerer Arbeit und eine verbesserte Repräsentation komplexer Bauwelten steht die Herausforderung, die hohen Sicherheits- und Qualitätsanforderungen für langlebige Bauprojekte ohne oder mit nur wenigen menschlichen Eingriffen zu erfüllen. Dafür kommt es auf eine kluge Integration von menschlicher und künstlicher Intelligenz an, bei der ausreichend Handlungsfähigkeit und -kompetenz auf Seiten der menschlichen Maschinensteuerung verbleibt. In unserem Beitrag diskutieren wir drei (Ideal-)Typen von Mensch-Maschine-Beziehungen und ihre Implikationen für Handlungsfähigkeit und Resilienz in künftigen Bauwelten. Dabei wird die Bedeutung vertrauenswürdiger und lernförderlicher Konfigurationen der Mensch-Maschine-Kooperationen herausgestellt.
The first law of differential entropy and holographic complexity
Authors: Sarkar Debajyoti , Visser Manus
Published: November 2020

Abstract

We construct the CFT dual of the first law of spherical causal diamonds in three-dimensional AdS spacetime. A spherically symmetric causal diamond in AdS3 is the domain of dependence of a spatial circular disk with vanishing extrinsic curvature. The bulk first law relates the variations of the area of the boundary of the disk, the spatial volume of the disk, the cosmological constant and the matter Hamiltonian. In this paper we specialize to first-order metric variations from pure AdS to the conical defect spacetime, and the bulk first law is derived following a coordinate based approach. The AdS/CFT dictionary connects the area of the boundary of the disk to the differential entropy in CFT2, and assuming the ‘complexity=volume’ conjecture, the volume of the disk is considered to be dual to the complexity of a cutoff CFT. On the CFT side we explicitly compute the differential entropy and holographic complexity for the vacuum state and the excited state dual to conical AdS using the kinematic space formalism. As a result, the boundary dual of the bulk first law relates the first-order variations of differential entropy and complexity to the variation of the scaling dimension of the excited state, which corresponds to the matter Hamiltonian variation in the bulk. We also include the variation of the central charge with associated chemical potential in the boundary first law. Finally, we comment on the boundary dual of the first law for the Wheeler-deWitt patch of AdS, and we propose an extension of our CFT first law to higher dimensions.
An estimate for narrow operators on $$L^p([0, 1])$$
Authors: Shargorodsky Eugene , Sharia Teo
Published: November 2020

We prove a theorem, which generalises C. Franchetti’s estimate for the norm of a projection onto a rich subspace of $$L^p([0, 1])$$

L
p

(

[
0
,
1
]

)

and the authors’ related estimate for compact operators on $$L^p([0, 1])$$

L
p

(

[
0
,
1
]

)

, $$1 \le p < \infty $$

1
≤
p
<
∞

.
Deciphering neural heterogeneity through cell lineage tracing
Authors: Figueres-Oñate María , Sánchez-González Rebeca , López-Mascaraque Laura
Published: November 2020

Understanding how an adult brain reaches an appropriate size and cell composition from a pool of progenitors that proliferates and differentiates is a key question in Developmental Neurobiology. Not only the control of final size but also, the proper arrangement of cells of different embryonic origins is fundamental in this process. Each neural progenitor has to produce a precise number of sibling cells that establish clones, and all these clones will come together to form the functional adult nervous system. Lineage cell tracing is a complex and challenging process that aims to reconstruct the offspring that arise from a single progenitor cell. This tracing can be achieved through strategies based on genetically modified organisms, using either genetic tracers, transfected viral vectors or DNA constructs, and even single-cell sequencing. Combining different reporter proteins and the use of transgenic mice revolutionized clonal analysis more than a decade ago and now, the availability of novel genome editing tools and single-cell sequencing techniques has vastly improved the capacity of lineage tracing to decipher progenitor potential. This review brings together the strategies used to study cell lineages in the brain and the role they have played in our understanding of the functional clonal relationships among neural cells. In addition, future perspectives regarding the study of cell heterogeneity and the ontogeny of different cell lineages will also be addressed.
Resident vegetation modifies climate-driven elevational shift of a mountain sedge
Authors: Crepaz Harald , Niedrist Georg , Wessely Johannes , Rossi Mattia , Dullinger Stefan
Published: November 2020

Mountain plant species are changing their ranges in response to global warming. However, these shifts vary tremendously in rate, extent and direction. The reasons for this variation are yet poorly understood. A process potentially important for mountain plant re-distribution is a competition between colonizing species and the resident vegetation. Here, we focus on the impact of this process using the recent elevational shift of the sedge Carex humilis in the northern Italian Alps as a model system. We repeated and extended historical sampling (conducted in 1976) of the species in the study region. We used the historical distribution data and historical climatic maps to parameterize a species distribution model (SDM) and projected the potential distribution of the species under current conditions. We compared the historical and the current re-survey for the species in terms of the cover of important potential competitor species as well as in terms of the productivity of the resident vegetation indicated by the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI). We found that Carex humilis has shifted its leading range margin upward rapidly (51.2 m per decade) but left many sites that have become climatically suitable since 1976 according to the SDM uncolonized. These suitable but uncolonized sites show significantly higher coverage of all dwarf shrub species and higher NDVI than the sites occupied by the sedge. These results suggest that resistance of the resident vegetation against colonization of migrating species can indeed play an important role in controlling the re-distribution of mountain plants under climate change.
Umwelt-Sein. Mutterschaft, Entwicklung und Psychologie, 1930–1990
Authors: Schmidt Susanne
Published: November 2020

Dieser Artikel beleuchtet die tragende Rolle, die Umweltdenken und Umgebungswissen für die Legitimation traditioneller Geschlechterrollen im 20. Jahrhundert spielten. Gezeigt wird, auf welche Weise einflussreiche psychologische und psychoanalytische Konzepte der Kindes- und Persönlichkeitsentwicklung Frauen dazu anhielten, sozio-naturale Umwelten herzustellen, ja, selbst Umwelt zu sein. Expertinnen und Experten verschiedener Denkrichtungen und Generationen propagierten ein ganz ähnliches Bild femininer „Environmentalität“, das heißt: der Disposition und Bestimmung der Frau, Umwelten zu erzeugen und zu verkörpern, die eine gesunde Kindesentwicklung ermöglichen und das Wohlbefinden und den Erfolg des Mannes, gar den Erhalt der gesellschaftlichen Ordnung begünstigen sollten. Dieses Konstrukt weiblichen Umwelt-Seins verpflichtete Frauen auf Ehe und Vollzeitmutterschaft und fixierte sie in Raum und Zeit. Sein reaktionärer Gebrauch in Auseinandersetzungen über alternative weibliche Lebensentwürfe demonstriert, dass leitende Konzeptionen von Entwicklung, Wohlergehen und Identität nicht nur androzentrisch, sondern antifeministisch waren.
Children and labor market outcomes: separating the effects of the first three children
Authors: Markussen Simen , Strøm Marte
Published: November 2020

We use miscarriage as a biological shock to fertility to estimate the effect of the first three children on women’s and men’s labor market outcomes. For women, we find that the effect is almost the same for the first, second and third child in the short run. The reduction in female earnings in the three first years after birth is on average 28 percent for the first child, 29 percent for the second child and 22 percent for the third child. The reduction is caused by drops in labor supply at the intensive margin and the extensive margin, concentrated among women in the middle part of the income distribution. There is considerable catching up after five years, but effects of the first two children persist ten years later, although they are imprecisely estimated. For men, we find evidence of increased labor supply and earnings after the first two children. We also find indications that having the first child increases take-up of health-related welfare benefits, such as disability insurance, for women, and that having a second and/or a third child increases couple stability.
A fracture criterion for ductile metals based on critical damage parameters
Authors: Brünig Michael , Schmidt Marco , Gerke Steffen
Published: November 2020

The paper deals with the effect of different stress-state-dependent damage mechanisms on the onset of fracture in ductile metals. A continuum damage model is discussed using a strain tensor as an appropriate damage variable. It takes into account the influence of stress state on the damage condition and on the evolution equations of damage strains. A fracture condition based on critical damage parameters is developed analyzing results of a series of new experiments with different biaxially loaded specimens. After the tests, fracture modes are visualized by scanning electron microscopy. Numerical simulations of the biaxial experiments elucidate the stress states in critical regions of the specimens which are used to explain formation of different damage and fracture modes on the micro-level. Analysis of numerically predicted damage strains for different loading cases leads to a generalized fracture criterion.
Formalization of Camera Pose Estimation Algorithm based on Rodrigues Formula
Authors: Chen Shanyan , Wang Guohui , Li Ximeng , Zhang Qianying , Shi Zhiping , Guan Yong
Published: November 2020

Camera pose estimation is key to the proper functioning of robotic systems, supporting critical tasks such as robot navigation, target tracking, camera calibration, etc.Whilemultiple algorithms solving this problem have been proposed, their correctness has rarely been validated using formal techniques. This is true despite the fact that the adoption of formal verification is essential for the reliability of safety-critical systems, and for their certification to high assurance levels. In this article, we present an effort in formally verifying an algorithm for camera pose estimation in an interactive theorem prover. The algorithm leverages the power of Rodrigues formula to solve the pose estimation problem under conditions for which existing solutions cannot be applied. The technical ingredients include (but are not limited to) mechanized proofs of the Rodrigues formula (along with its Cayley decomposition form) and the least squares method for fitting data. Based on the formalization of the algorithm, we formally derive and verify its general solution and unique solution.