bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COVID‐19 pneumonia in kidney transplant recipients: A promising treatment algorithm in the absence of a disease‐specific drug
Authors: Karatas Murat , Tatar Erhan , Simsek Cenk , Yıldırım Ali Murat , Ari Alpay , Zengel Baha , Uslu Adam
Published: June 2021

There is no consensus on the management of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) and modification of immunosuppressive therapy in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). In this study, we examined the clinical outcome of our KTRs with COVID‐19 disease, who were treated with a broad‐spectrum anti‐inflammatory protocol. This protocol is essentially composed of intravenous immunoglobulin +/‐ tocilizumab in KTRs with severe COVID‐19 pneumonia. Among 809 KTRs, 64 patients diagnosed with COVID‐19 disease between April 2020 and February 2021, were evaluated. Twenty‐nine patients with pneumonia confirmed by chest computed tomography (CCT) were hospitalized. The treatment protocol included high‐dose intravenous methylprednisolone, favipiravir, enoxaparin, and empirical antibiotics. Patients with pneumonic involvement of more than 25% on CCT with or without respiratory failure were given a total of 2 g/kg intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) therapy. Nonresponders received tocilizumab, an interleukin‐6 receptor antibody. Of the 29 patients with pneumonia, 6 were treated in other hospitals. These six patients did not receive IVIg and 5 of them deceased. In our center, IVIg treatment was applied to 15 of 23 patients. Seven of them required tocilizumab. Respiratory parameters improved significantly in all but one patient after IVIg ± tocilizumab treatment. The mortality rate was 6.6% in patients who received IVIg therapy and 35.7% in those who did not (p = 0.08). The mortality rate was higher in patients who received treatment in external centers (2.2% vs. 26.3%; p = 0.0073). The treatment of KTRs with severe COVID‐19 pneumonia in organ transplant centers with significant experience yields better results. The administration of broad‐spectrum anti‐inflammatory treatment in this patient group was safe and provided excellent outcomes.
Evaluation of the performance of SARS‐­CoV­‐2 antibody assays for a longitudinal population­based study of COVID‐­19 spread in St. Petersburg, Russia
Authors: Barchuk Anton , Shirokov Daniil , Sergeeva Mariia , Tursun­zade Rustam , Dudkina Olga , Tychkova Varvara , Barabanova Lubov , Skougarevskiy Dmitriy , Danilenko Daria
Published: June 2021

Geographical variation in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS­‐CoV­‐2) spread requires seroprevalence studies based on local tests, but robust validation is needed. We summarize an evaluation of antibody tests used in a serological study of SARS‐­CoV­‐2 in Saint Petersburg, Russia. We validated three different antibody assays: chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA) Abbott Architect SARS‐­CoV­‐2 immunoglobulin G (IgG), enzyme­ linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) CoronaPass total antibodies test, and ELISA SARS­‐CoV‐­2‐­IgG‐­EIA‐­BEST. Clinical sensitivity was estimated with the SARS­‐CoV­‐2 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test as the gold standard using manufacturer recommended cutoff. Specificity was estimated using pre­pandemic sera samples. The median time between positive PCR test results and antibody tests was 21 weeks. Measures of concordance were calculated against the microneutralization test (MNA).Sensitivity was equal to 91.1% (95% confidence intervbal [CI]: 78.8–97.5), 90% (95% CI: 76.4–96.4), and 63.1% (95% CI [50.2–74.7]) for ELISA Coronapass, ELISA Vector­Best, and CMIA Abbott, respectively. Specificity was equal to 100% for all the tests. Comparison of receiver operating characteristics has shown lower AUC for CMIA Abbott. The cut­off SC/O ratio of 0.28 for CMIA Abbott resulted in a sensitivity of 80% at the same level of specificity. Less than 33% of the participants with positive antibody test results had neutralizing antibodies in titers 1:80 and above. Antibody assays results and MNA correlated moderately. This study encourages the use of local antibody tests and sets the reference for seroprevalence correction. Available tests' sensitivity allows detecting antibodies within the majority of PCR­ positive individuals. The Abbott assay sensitivity can be improved by incorporating a new cut­off. Manufacturers' test characteristics may introduce bias into the study results.
Spring snow depth changes and feedback to surface air temperature across the Tibetan plateau from 1961 to 2013
Authors: Chen Xiaona , Yang Yaping
Published: June 2021

Spring snow depth (SSD) in the Tibetan Plateau (TP) plays an essential role in snow water estimation, vegetation growth, and climate projections for Southwest China and the surrounding Asian countries. Previous studies have reported a decline in SSD that is associated with increasing surface air temperature (Ts) across the TP over the past decades. However, only a few studies have explored the potential feedback of SSD to Ts, which has hindered the elucidation of the vulnerability of snow cover in the TP against the backdrop of rapid climate change. Based on data from 69 meteorological stations in the central and eastern parts of the TP, this study analyses changes in SSD and its feedback to Ts from 1961 to 2013. Overall, a slightly negative trend in SSD was observed from 1961 to 2013, during which two contrasting trends were detected using a piecewise regression approach: an initial increase from 1961 to 1981 (0.12 cm decades−1, p < .01) followed by a decrease from 1982 to 2013 (−0.36 cm decades−1, p < .01). Sensitivity analysis revealed that the SSD decline was systematically correlated with a positive Ts anomaly, with sensitivities of −0.050 cm °C−1 (p < .01) and −0.069 cm °C−1 (p < .01) for 1961–2013 and 1982–2013, respectively. However, following the accelerated SSD decline during 1982–2013, its potential feedback to Ts was attenuated, with averaged feedback values from −1.328°C cm−1 during 1961–2013 to −0.936°C cm−1 during 1982–2013 in latitudes below 3,500 m, distributed in the Qaidam and Yellow River basins, and the upper reaches of the Yangtze River basin. The decrease in feedback from SSD to Ts may lead to changes in the mechanism controlling Ts dynamics across the TP, which should be considered in climate change projections in future studies.
Variability of the precipitation over the Tianshan Mountains, Central Asia. Part I: Linear and nonlinear trends of the annual and seasonal precipitation
Authors: Guan Xuefeng , Yao Junqiang , Schneider Christoph
Published: June 2021

The Tianshan Mountains, with their status as ‘water tower’, receive quantities of precipitation that are among the highest in Central Asia. There are considerable knowledge gaps regarding the understanding of spatial and temporal patterns of precipitation over this water‐scarce region. Based on the Global Precipitation Climatology Centre (GPCC) data set, this study evaluated the precipitation variations over Tianshan Mountains on different time scales by using Mann‐Kendall (M‐K) test approaches and the ensemble empirical mode decomposition (EEMD) method. The results show that (a) most parts of Tianshan experienced increasing annual precipitation during 1950–2016 while Western Tianshan, which is the wettest region, faced a downtrend of precipitation during the same 67 years; (b) the annual precipitation in the Tianshan Mountains has exhibited high‐frequency variations with 3‐ and 6‐year quasi‐periods and low‐frequency variations with 12‐, 27‐year quasi‐periods. On the decadal scale, Tianshan had two dry periods (1950–1962 and 1973–1984) and two wet periods (1962–1972 and 1985–2016) and has experienced a tendency of continuous humidification since 2004; (c) the precipitation over the Tianshan Mountains shows a strong seasonality. In total, 63.6% of all precipitation falls in spring and summer. Distinctive differences are found in seasonal precipitation variations among the sub‐Tianshan regions. Obvious upward trends of precipitation over Eastern Tianshan were found in all seasons, with Eastern Tianshan entering a humid period as early as 1986. Northern and Central Tianshan experienced a decreasing trend in summer and spring. However, in the other seasons, those two sub‐Tianshan regions have been in humid periods since the 1990s. The precipitation over Western Tianshan showed an upward trend in summer and autumn. The obvious downward trends in spring and winter have led to dry periods in these two seasons from 1997–2014 to 2008–2016, respectively.
Coupling analysis of penetrated wire connecting two electronic devices using a time domain hybrid method
Authors: Ye Zhihong , Lu Changchang , Zhang Yu
Published: June 2021

An efficient time domain hybrid method is proposed, which integrate transmission line (TL) equations, finite‐difference time‐domain (FDTD) method, Norton and Substitution theorems together, to predict the EM fields coupling with the penetrated wire connecting two electronic devices. Within this method, the geometry of penetrated wire is divided into external and internal TLs according to the shielded enclosures of two devices firstly. Then the equivalent circuit model of penetrated wire is established by the Norton and Substitution theorems, which can represent the discontinuity of impedance between external and internal TLs and the transmitting of interference signals between terminal loads of the wire. Finally, the TL equations combined with FDTD method is utilized to compute the transient responses on external and internal TLs respectively. Numerical simulations of penetrated wire connecting two shielded enclosures in different environment are employed to verify the accuracy and efficiency of the presented method.
Using convolutional neural networks to discriminate between cysts and masses in Monte Carlo‐simulated dual‐energy mammography
Authors: Makeev Andrey , Toner Brian , Qian Marian , Badal Andreu , Glick Stephen J.
Published: June 2021

Purpose

A substantial percentage of recalls (up to 20%) in screening mammography is attributed to extended round lesions. Benign fluid‐filled breast cysts often appear similar to solid tumors in conventional mammograms. Spectral imaging (dual‐energy or photon‐counting mammography) has been shown to discriminate between cysts and solid masses with clinically acceptable accuracy. This work explores the feasibility of using convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for this task.

Methods

A series of Monte Carlo experiments was conducted with digital breast phantoms and embedded synthetic lesions to produce realistic dual‐energy images of both lesion types. We considered such factors as nonuniform anthropomorphic background, size of the mass, breast compression thickness, and variability in lesion x‐ray attenuation. These data then were used to train a deep neural network (ResNet‐18) to learn the differences in x‐ray attenuation of cysts and masses.

Results

Our simulation results showed that the CNN‐based classifier could reliably discriminate between cystic and solid mass round lesions in dual‐energy images with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC AUC) of 0.98 or greater.

Conclusions

The proposed approach showed promising performance and ease of implementation, and could be applied to novel photon‐counting detector‐based spectral mammography systems.
Lower urinary tract disorders in multiple sclerosis patients: prevalence, clinical features, and response to treatments
Authors: Seddone Silvia , Marturano Monia , Bientinesi Riccardo , Lucchini Matteo , Bassi Pierfrancesco , Mirabella Massimiliano , Nociti Viviana
Published: June 2021

Aims

Lower urinary tract symptoms are common in multiple sclerosis (MS) and have a great impact on quality of life. We evaluated prevalence and characteristics of urological symptoms in a cohort of patients with MS.

Methods

This is a cross‐sectional study conducted on consecutive patients with MS attending our Center in 2018. We evaluated prevalence, clinical features, and response to symptomatic treatments of lower urinary tract disorders; we investigated the relationship between them and clinical and demographic features. Data of urodynamic studies were also collected.

Results

In our cohort of 806 patients, the overall prevalence of urological symptoms was 52.9% and urgency was the most frequent symptom (59.4%). Symptomatic patients had a higher disability, a longer disease duration, a later age at onset, and a greater mean age at the time of evaluation. Urinary disorders were more frequent in patients with progressive disease and in women. About 41.8% of patients were under treatment for the urological disorder and 81.5% of them reported an improvement of symptoms.

Conclusion

Urinary disorders in patients with MS have a high prevalence. An early and correct characterization of types of symptoms and an early and targeted therapeutic strategy are essential to improve the patient's quality of life and avoid future complications.
On Shannon entropy computations in selected plasticity problems
Authors: Kamiński Marcin M.
Published: June 2021

This paper considers the problem of determining probabilistic entropy fluctuations, which are important for understanding uncertainty propagation in mechanical systems in the elasto‐plastic regime. Probabilistic entropy is conceptualized based on an initial definition by Shannon, which demands discrete representation of the uncertainty source. Numerical analysis is performed using the Response Function Method with polynomial bases. Coefficients are found and order optimization is completed using polynomial interpolations or the Least Squares Method. Approximations are based on the Finite Element Method. Local polynomial bases enable nonlinear increment analysis, and allow for a given degree of freedom in the FEM model to be described as a function of a random input parameter. Academic FEM software and the ABAQUS system were used for numerical experiments. Polynomial approximations, probabilistic moment computations, and statistical entropy estimations were programmed in the symbolic algebra package MAPLE. Transformation of the input probability density into the output function was performed using the Monte‐Carlo simulation algorithm for statistically optimized polynomial bases of extreme displacement functions. Two computational examples are given to demonstrate probabilistic entropy fluctuations for a small statically indeterminate aluminum truss structure and also for practical engineering case study of the steel round bar under uniform tensile stress. In these examples, some material and geometrical uncertainties distributed according to Gaussian, triangular, uniform as well as lognormal distributions were analyzed. The presented approach could be used for constitutive models of solids, computational fluid dynamics, and in other discrete numerical methods.
Women's engagement with diabetes prevention activities and the influence of contact by the Australian national gestational diabetes register
Authors: O'Reilly Sharleen L , Versace Vincent L , Skinner Timothy C , Dunbar James A ,   the MAGDA Study Group
Published: June 2021

Gestational diabetes increases a woman's risk of developing type 2 diabetes. In 2011, Australia started the first National Gestational Diabetes Register (NGDR). The register aims to improve risk awareness, promote diabetes prevention, and encourage regular diabetes screening. This study aimed to identify postnatal diabetes prevention activity and the association of NGDR awareness with that activity in a nationally representative sample of Australian women after a pregnancy with gestational diabetes.

An anonymous, cross‐sectional, online survey of women previously diagnosed with gestational diabetes and aged 18 years or over was run from June to November 2014.

Of 8860 women invited from a stratified NGDR sample, 966 participated (response rate 13%). Postnatal screening rate was 73%. Only 47% of respondents reported receiving NGDR information postnatally. Log‐binomial regression demonstrated an association with women reporting receiving NGDR information and being at intermediate risk of developing type 2 diabetes (relative ratio [RR] 1.307, 95% CI 1.030, 1.660) and at higher disadvantage (RR 1.501, 95% CI 1.080, 2.080). Postnatal screening rates, total diabetes risk perception and lifestyle risk factors were not significantly different between those recalling or not recalling receiving NGDR information.

The reach and impact of NGDR information alone are limited. Women's engagement with the NGDR was not associated with better lifestyle, greater postnatal screening or higher risk perception. System‐level integration is needed for improved NGDR functioning and further improvements should yield enhanced diabetes prevention efforts when primary care ties are strengthened. Copyright © 2021 John Wiley & Sons.
Black Lives Matter: tackling racial and ethnic inequalities in diabetes health care
Authors: Seewoodhary Jason
Published: June 2021

Half a century after Martin Luther King Jr declared ‘of all the forms of inequality, injustice in health is the most shocking and inhumane’, race and ethnicity remains a barrier to accessing fair, just and equitable diabetes‐related care. This review will critically consider the evidence basis underlying this and discusses interventions used to eliminate such disparities. Copyright © 2021 John Wiley & Sons.
Hydrogen bonding mediated self‐assembled structures from block copolymer mixtures to mesoporous materials
Authors: Kuo Shiao‐Wei
Published: June 2021

The self‐assembled structures formed through hydrogen bonding interaction of block copolymers in polymeric materials are interesting materials because of their potential applications in biomedicine, nanopatterning and photonics, taking advantage of their responsive and tunable properties. In this review, we discuss the self‐assembled nanostructures that can be obtained from hydrogen‐bonded diblock copolymer/homopolymer (A‐b‐B/C) and diblock copolymer (A‐b‐B/C‐b‐D) mixtures in the bulk and how these block copolymer mixtures can then be used to synthesize mesoporous silica, phenolic and carbon materials. © 2021 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Impact of chemically defined culture media formulations on extracellular vesicle production by amniotic epithelial cells
Authors: Zhu Dandan , Fang Haoyun , Kusuma Gina D. , Schwab Renate , Barabadi Mehri , Chan Siow Teng , McDonald Hannah , Leong Cheng Mee , Wallace Euan M. , Greening David W. , Lim Rebecca
Published: June 2021

The therapeutic properties of cell derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) make them promising cell‐free alternative to regenerative medicine. However, clinical translation of this technology relies on the ability to manufacture EVs in a scalable, reproducible, and cGMP‐compliant manner. To generate EVs in sufficient quantity, a critical step is the selection and development of culture media, where differences in formulation may influence the EV manufacturing process. In this study, we used human amniotic epithelial cells (hAECs) as a model system to explore the effect of different formulations of chemically defined, commercially sourced media on EV production. Here, we determined that cell viability and proliferation rate are not reliable quality indicators for EV manufacturing. The levels of tetraspanins and epitope makers of EVs were significantly impacted by culture media formulations. Mass spectrometry‐based proteomic profiling revealed proteome composition of hAEC‐EVs and the influence of media formulations on composition of EV proteome. This study has revealed critical aspects including cell viability and proliferation rate, EV yield, and tetraspanins, surface epitopes and proteome composition of EVs influenced by media formulations, and further insight into standardised EV production culture media that should be considered in clinical‐grade scalable EV manufacture for generation of therapeutic EVs.
Coronary vessel detection methods for organ‐mounted robots
Authors: Rasmussen Eric T. , Shiao Eric C. , Zourelias Lee , Halbreiner Michael S. , Passineau Michael J. , Murali Srinivas , Riviere Cameron N.
Published: June 2021

Background

HeartLander is a tethered robot walker that utilizes suction to adhere to the beating heart. HeartLander can be used for minimally invasive administration of cardiac medications or ablation of tissue. In order to administer injections safely, HeartLander must avoid coronary vasculature.

Methods

Doppler ultrasound signals were recorded using a custom‐made cardiac phantom and used to classify different coronary vessel properties. The classification was performed by two machine learning algorithms, the support vector machines and a deep convolutional neural network. These algorithms were then validated in animal trials.

Results

Accuracy of identifying vessels above turbulent flow reached greater than 92% in phantom trials and greater than 98% in animal trials.

Conclusions

Through the use of two machine learning algorithms, HeartLander has shown the ability to identify different sized vasculature proximally above turbulent flow. These results indicate that it is feasible to use Doppler ultrasound to identify and avoid coronary vasculature during cardiac interventions using HeartLander.
Efficacy and safety of azithromycin in Covid‐19 patients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Kamel Ahmed M. , Monem Mona S. A. , Sharaf Nour A. , Magdy Nada , Farid Samar F.
Published: June 2021

Azithromycin (AZM) is commonly used in Covid‐19 patients based on low‐quality evidence, increasing the risk of developing adverse events and antimicrobial resistance. The current systematic review and meta‐analysis investigated the safety and efficacy of AZM in treating Covid‐19 patients using published randomized controlled trials. Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Clinical Trials.gov, MEDLINE, bioRxiv and medRxiv were searched for relevant studies. The random‐effects model was used to pool estimates using the Paule–Mandel estimate for heterogeneity. The odds ratio and raw difference in medians were used for dichotomous and continuous outcomes, respectively. The analysis included seven studies with 8822 patients (median age, 55.8 years; 61% males). The risk of bias was assessed as ‘low’ for five of the seven mortality results and as ‘some concerns’ and ‘high’ in one trial each. There were 657/3100 (21.2%) and 1244/5654 (22%) deaths among patients randomized to AZM and standard of care, respectively. The use of AZM was not associated with mortality in Covid‐19 patients (OR = 0.96, 95% CI 0.88–1.05, p = 0.317 based on the random‐effect meta‐analysis). The use of AZM was not associated with need for invasive mechanical ventilation (OR = 0.96, 95% CI 0.49–1.87, p = 0.85) and length of stay (Δ = 1.11, 95% CI −2.08 to 4.31, p = 0.49). The results show that using AZM as routine therapy in Covid‐19 patients is not justified due to lack of efficacy and potential risk of bacterial resistance that is not met by an increased clinical benefit.
Estimation and construction of confidence intervals for biomarker cutoff‐points under the shortest Euclidean distance from the ROC surface to the perfection corner
Authors: Mosier Brian R. , Bantis Leonidas E.
Published: June 2021

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive type of cancer with a 5‐year survival rate of less than 5%. As in many other diseases, its diagnosis might involve progressive stages. It is common that in biomarker studies referring to PDAC, recruitment involves three groups: healthy individuals, patients that suffer from chronic pancreatitis, and PDAC patients. Early detection and accurate classification of the state of the disease are crucial for patients' successful treatment. ROC analysis is the most popular way to evaluate the performance of a biomarker and the Youden index is commonly employed for cutoff derivation. The so‐called generalized Youden index has a drawback in the three‐class case of not accommodating the full data set when estimating the optimal cutoffs. In this article, we explore the use of the Euclidean distance of the ROC to the perfection corner for the derivation of cutoffs in trichotomous settings. We construct an inferential framework that involves both parametric and nonparametric techniques. Our methods can accommodate the full information of a given data set and thus provide more accurate estimates in terms of the decision‐making cutoffs compared with a Youden‐based strategy. We evaluate our approaches through extensive simulations and illustrate them on a PDAC biomarker study.
Crystallographically Oriented Hybrid Perovskites via Thermal Vacuum Codeposition
Authors: Klipfel Nadja , Momblona Cristina , Kanda Hiroyuki , Shibayama Naoyuki , Nakamura Yuiga , Mensi Mounir Driss , Liu Cheng , Roldán-Carmona Cristina , Nazeeruddin Mohammad Khaja
Published: June 2021

Hybrid lead halide perovskites typically form polycrystalline films that have multiple grain sizes and surface defects. A key engineering challenge toward commercialization is therefore the production of homogeneous, defect‐free large‐area devices achieving high efficiency. New market opportunities may arise from vacuum‐deposited perovskites if detailed understanding and control of crystal formation are available. Of the many factors that make reproducibility of device performance difficult, two variables are identified that have not yet been considered in detail: deposition speed and underlayer material selection. Herein, it is demonstrated that small changes in the perovskite growth rate (0.18–0.72 Å·s−1) substantially affect the preferred crystal orientation. Further, varying underlayer interfaces greatly influence the composition of the final perovskite and thus its energetic profile. The research aids control in fine‐tuning the perovskite film at the nanometer scale, which enables the reproducible fabrication of vertically aligned and micrometer‐sized grain features, highly demanded for in high‐quality semiconductors.
Linear regression analysis for interval‐valued functional data
Authors: Nasirzadeh Roya , Nasirzadeh Fariba , Mohammadi Zohreh
Published: June 2021

Recent advances in information technology have led to the appearance of high‐dimensional and complex data sets which necessitates in‐depth investigation on high‐dimensional data analysis and modelling. The current study introduces five approaches to fit a functional linear regression model on interval‐valued functional data. The proposed approaches are based on the functional linear regression models on a sort of data where the response is an interval‐valued scalar random variable and the predictors are interval‐valued functional. In the first proposed method, a functional linear regression model is fitted based on the midpoints of the intervals. The second method involves two independent functional linear models on the midpoint and the half range of the intervals. Furthermore, the third method is based on a combination of the midpoint and the half range of intervals. In the fourth one, we formulate an interval‐valued functional predictor as a bivariate curve and introduce the bivariate functional linear regression model. Finally, the last method is based on Monte Carlo Markov Chain. The proposed methods are evaluated and compared through Monte Carlo simulation and real data analysis.
Stress analysis of an orthotropic elastic infinite plane with a hole
Authors: Hasebe Norio
Published: June 2021

A general solution (stress functions) is derived for an orthotropic elastic plane problem using a mapping function to solve arbitrary configurations. Lekhnitskii formulism using complex variable is used. A problem of an infinite orthotropic elastic plane with a hole is solved. The boundary condition is represented by two complex variables. This makes it difficult to solve the orthotropic elastic plane problem. The problem is solved by overcoming this difficulty. Two methods of Cauchy integral and Riemann‐Hilbert problem are applied for the analysis. It is confirmed that the same exact stress functions are finally obtained by these methods and are represented by an irrational mapping function as a closed form. These stress functions are the general solution for the holed problem. The Mittag‐Leffler Theorem is used for the analysis. Therefore, there are two methods to solve an external boundary value problem. Stress components are represented by one complex variable. Therefore, it is not difficult to calculate the stress components. Arbitrarily shaped hole problem can be solved by changing the mapping function in the stress functions. The stress distributions for an infinite plane with a square hole subjected to uniform tension for Case I and III problems are shown. Symmetry of the stress distribution is lost for a Case III problem. A problem of a half plane with an edge crack is solved as Riemann‐Hilbert problem. It is confirmed that the solution coincide with that obtained by Cauchy integral method.
Live Imaging and Analysis of Cilia and Cell Cycle Dynamics with the Arl13bCerulean-Fucci2a Biosensor and Fucci Tools
Authors: Van Kerckvoorde Melinda , Ford Matthew J. , Yeyati Patricia L. , Mill Pleasantine , Mort Richard L.
Published: June 2021

The cell and cilia cycles are inextricably linked through the dual functions of the centrioles at both the basal body of cilia and at mitotic centrosomes. How cilia assembly and disassembly, either through slow resorption or rapid deciliation, are coordinated with cell cycle progression remains unclear in many cell types and developmental paradigms. Moreover, little is known about how additional cilia parameters including changes in ciliary length or frequency of distal tip shedding change with cell cycle stage. In order to explore these questions, we have developed the Arl13bCerulean-Fucci2a tricistronic cilia and cell cycle biosensor (Ford et al., Dev Cell 47:509–523.e7, 2018). This reporter allowed us to document the heterogeneity in ciliary behaviors during the cell cycle at a population level. Without the need for external stimuli, it revealed that in several cell types and in the developing embryo cilia persist beyond the G1/S checkpoint. Here, we describe the generation of stable cell lines expressing Arl13bCerulean-Fucci2a and open-source software to aid morphometric profiling of the primary cilium with cell cycle phases, including changes in cilium length. This resource will allow the investigation of multiple morphometric questions relating to cilia and cell cycle biology.
Introduction
Authors: Stellinga Bart , de Hoog Josta , van Riel Arthur , de Vries Casper
Published: June 2021

This book is a translation and adaption of the Dutch report ‘Geld en schuld. De publieke rol van banken’, published by the Netherlands Scientific Council for Government Policy (WRR). This report was the result of a formal request by the Dutch Minister of Finance for an advice on the functioning of the monetary system, as suggested in a motion adopted by the Dutch Parliament during a debate on money creation. In this introductory chapter, we first briefly introduce money and debt before discussing the role of trust and dynamism in the financial monetary system. The introduction ends with an overview of the book.
An Appraisal of the Financial Monetary System
Authors: Stellinga Bart , de Hoog Josta , van Riel Arthur , de Vries Casper
Published: June 2021

This chapter assesses the financial monetary system on the basis of four characteristics: (1) its economic contribution; (2) its stability; (3) its fairness in the distribution of benefits, costs and risks; and (4) its legitimacy. Based on this analysis, we highlight key problems in the current system. Our analysis points to two underlying problems: the unbalanced and uncontrolled growth of money and debt; and a distorted balance between public and private interests.
Conclusions and Recommendations
Authors: Stellinga Bart , de Hoog Josta , van Riel Arthur , de Vries Casper
Published: June 2021

In this final chapter we discuss the book’s key findings. We first recap the operations of our current system and the problems it presents. We then discuss how the alternative of sovereign money would work and whether switching systems would be desirable. Finally, we consider what steps can be taken to address the major problems posed by the current system. We recommend restoring the balanced growth of credit and debt, and striking a better balance between public and private interests. This entails fostering greater diversity in the financial sector, curbing the excessive growth of debt, being prepared for the next crisis, and anchoring the public dimension of the banking system.
Introduction to Recent Advances in Quality Assessment for Adhesive Bonding Technology
Authors: Noeske Michael , Leite Cavalcanti Welchy , Brüning Hauke , Mayer Bernd , Stamopoulos Antonios , Chamos Apostolos , Krousarlis Thomas , Malinowski Paweł H. , Ostachowicz Wiesław M. , Tserpes Konstantinos , Brune Kai , Ecault Romain
Published: June 2021

The first chapter highlights the relevance of both adhesive bonding technology and in-process quality assessment for mastering twenty-first-century challenges in joining functional and lightweight materials like carbon fibre reinforced polymers. The ongoing developments of the relevant technological and regulatory procedures and frameworks are hereby outlined, following trends for data-driven innovation and standardisation. Advances from monitoring process variables towards the in-depth and objective Extended Non-destructive Testing (ENDT) of material-related features are presented, based on methodological and technological innovation and insights from recent European joint research projects like Horizon 2020s ComBoNDT—“Quality assurance concepts for adhesive bonding of aircraft composite structures by advanced NDT”. Introducing ten heuristic principles for quality assessment in bonding processes, a concept is demonstrated for establishing empirically consolidated sets of quantitative material and process-specific correlations between design-relevant joint features and quality data measured during the manufacture or repair of adhesive joints using ENDT. Each correlation is obtained by systematically introducing disturbances of relevant process features identified by experts and is levelled once by linking findings from standardised mechanical tests with ENDT results obtained for joints that have intentionally been manufactured or repaired in an off-specification way. Subsequent chapters will demonstrate the suitability of the broadly applicable process.
Extended Non-destructive Testing for Surface Quality Assessment
Authors: Schlag Mareike , Brune Kai , Brüning Hauke , Noeske Michael , Cherrier Célian , Hanning Tobias , Drosten Julius , De Vito Saverio , Miglietta Maria Lucia , Formisano Fabrizio , Salvato Maria , Massera Ettore , Di Francia Girolamo , Esposito Elena , Helwig Andreas , Stössel Rainer , Sawczak Mirosław , Malinowski Paweł H. , Ostachowicz Wiesław M. , Radzieński Maciej
Published: June 2021

This chapter introduces various extended non-destructive testing (ENDT) techniques for surface quality assessment, which are first characterized, then enhanced, and finally applied to assess the level of pre-bond contaminations intentionally applied to carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) adherends following the procedures described in the previous chapter. Based on two user cases comprising different scenarios that are characteristic of either aeronautical production or repair, the detailed tests conducted on two types of sample geometry, namely flat coupons and scarfed pilot samples with a more complex shape, form the basis for applying the advanced ENDT procedures for the monitoring of realistic and real aircraft parts, as will be described in Chap. 5. Specifically, the reported investigations were performed to assess the surface quality of first ground and then intentionally contaminated CFRP surfaces using the following ENDT tools: the aerosol wetting test (AWT), optically stimulated electron emission (OSEE), two differently implemented approaches based on electronic noses, laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, laser-induced fluorescence (LIF), and laser vibrometry.
Extended Non-destructive Testing Technique Demonstration in a Realistic Environment with Technology Assessment
Authors: Ecault Romain , Reguero Simon Ana , Cherrier Célian , Malinowski Paweł H. , Wandowski Tomasz , Sawczak Mirosław , Brune Kai , Brüning Hauke , Schlag Mareike , Derksen Johannes , Leite Cavalcanti Welchy , Berthe Laurent , Sagnard Maxime , Ostachowicz Wiesław M. , De Vito Saverio , Helwig Andreas , Stössel Rainer , Segur Damien , Chamos Apostolos , Tserpes Konstantinos
Published: June 2021

This chapter highlights two advances towards a higher maturity of versatile extended non-destructive testing (ENDT) procedures. Full-scale demonstration tests are presented in realistic user application cases that involve typical production or repair scenarios. Subsequently, the investigations used to assess the probability of detection (POD) are detailed for the respective ENDT processes and application-relevant scenarios in a realistic environment. Although some results indicated that some additional in-depth investigations would be even more enlightening, these demonstrations still clearly showed that developments and progress described in the previous chapters have enabled some of the technologies to achieve a maturity that is sufficient to proceed towards industrial implementation. Some ENDT techniques revealed the presence of contaminants on real structural parts with unknown contaminant amounts. For the first time, POD results obtained for ENDT investigations are presented. Some ENDT procedures permitted POD results to be obtained for several scenarios, while others showed technologically relevant POD only for certain scenarios. For two ENDT techniques, determining the POD helped to enhance the respective testing and evaluation procedures. In most of the cases, it was possible to estimate a preliminary quantification of POD by giving the POD90/95. For some techniques, this value was below the lowest contamination degree.
Handlungsansätze und Strategien im Umgang mit Multilokalität
Authors: Greinke Lena , Lehmann Franziska , Othengrafen Frank , Seitz Annette
Published: June 2021

Multilokalität ist eine Lebensweise, die nahezu in allen Altersgruppen und Gesellschaftsschichten vertreten ist. Bislang fehlen den lokalen Akteur*innen oftmals das Wissen und Bewusstsein über die Zusammenhänge und Auswirkungen multilokaler Lebensweisen. Um aber auf das zunehmende Phänomen Multilokalität reagieren zu können sowie geeignete Strategien und Ansätze zu entwickeln, ist es bedeutsam, die relevanten Akteur*innen für Multilokalität und die daraus resultierenden Auswirkungen dieser Lebensweisen zu sensibilisieren. In diesem Beitrag werden verschiedene Instrumente und Formate vorgestellt, um (1) für Multilokalität zu sensibilisieren, (2) die Wahrnehmung des Phänomens zu erhöhen und (3) geeignete Strategien und Ansätze im Umgang mit Multilokalität zu entwickeln.
Older adults are not more susceptible to acute muscle atrophy after immobilisation compared to younger adults: a systematic review
Authors: Hodgson Harry , Wilkinson Michael , Bowen Scott , Giannoudis Peter , Howard Anthony
Published: June 2021

Purpose

To identify if older adults are more susceptible to acute muscle atrophy compared to younger adults.

Methods

All studies whose design involved a period of enforced immobilisation and a comparison between an older (> 40) and a younger cohort (< 40) were included. Outcome of interest was change in muscle mass, measured by radiological techniques or histological analysis of fibre size. Medline, Embase and Cochrane databases were systematically searched and records screened by two independent reviewers. Studies selected for inclusion were critically appraised and individually assessed for risk of bias. GRADE framework guided the assessment of quality of studies.

Results

Eight articles were included (193 participants). 14 (7.3%) were female and 102 (52.8%) were in older groups. Mean age for older adults was 66.3 years and for younger adults 23.3 years. Immobilisation periods spanned 4–14 days as simulated by bed rest, limb brace or limb cast. Studies measured muscle mass by DXA, CT, MRI or fibre cross-sectional area, or a combination of each. Muscles studied included quadriceps, adductor pollicis, vastus lateralis or combined lean leg mass.

Of the radiological measures, three studies (74 participants) reported greater atrophy in the older group, three studies (76 participants) reported greater atrophy in the younger group. Reduction in muscle mass varied in older adults between 0.19 and 0.76% per day, and for younger adults between 0.06 and 0.70% per day. Due to substantial heterogeneity, a meta-analysis was not performed. Five studies reported fibre size. Change in fibre size varied considerably between each study, with no convincing overall trend for either older or younger groups.

Conclusion

The current literature suggests that there is no difference in the rate of muscle atrophy after immobilisation in older people compared to younger people, and therefore that older people are not more susceptible to atrophy in the acute setting. However, the findings are inconsistent and provide statistically significant but opposing results. There is a lack of high-quality research available on the topic, and there is a paucity of literature regarding atrophy rates in women.
On transmissible load formulations in topology optimization
Authors: Lu Hongjia , Tyas Andrew , Gilbert Matthew , Pichugin Aleksey V.
Published: June 2021

Transmissible loads are external loads defined by their line of action, with actual points of load application chosen as part of the topology optimization process. Although for problems where the optimal structure is a funicular, transmissible loads can be viewed as surface loads, in other cases such loads are free to be applied to internal parts of the structure. There are two main transmissible load formulations described in the literature: a rigid bar (constrained displacement) formulation or, less commonly, a migrating load (equilibrium) formulation. Here, we employ a simple Mohr’s circle analysis to show that the rigid bar formulation will only produce correct structural forms in certain specific circumstances. Numerical examples are used to demonstrate (and explain) the incorrect topologies produced when the rigid bar formulation is applied in other situations. A new analytical solution is also presented for a uniformly loaded cantilever structure. Finally, we invoke duality principles to elucidate the source of the discrepancy between the two formulations, considering both discrete truss and continuum topology optimization formulations.
Correction to: “Don’t Blast”: blast‑in‑place (BiP) operations of dumped World War munitions in the oceans significantly increase hazards to the environment and the human seafood consumer
Authors: Maser Edmund , Strehse Jennifer S.
Published: June 2021

A correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00204-021-03087-z
A radiomics-based nomogram for preoperative T staging prediction of rectal cancer
Authors: Lin Xue , Zhao Sheng , Jiang Huijie , Jia Fucang , Wang Guisheng , He Baochun , Jiang Hao , Ma Xiao , Li Jinping , Shi Zhongxing
Published: June 2021

Purpose

To investigate the value of a radiomics-based nomogram in predicting preoperative T staging of rectal cancer.

Methods

A total of 268 eligible rectal cancer patients from August 2012 to December 2018 were enrolled and allocated into two datasets: training (n = 188) and validation datasets (n = 80). Another set of 32 patients from January 2019 to July 2019 was included in a prospective analysis. Pretreatment T2-weighted images were used to radiomics features extraction. Feature selection and radiomics score (Rad-score) construction were performed through a least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression analysis. The nomogram, which included Rad-scores and clinical factors, was built using multivariate logistic regression. Discrimination, calibration, and clinical utility were used to evaluate the performance of the nomogram.

Results

The Rad-score containing nine selected features was significantly related to T staging. Patients who had locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) generally had higher Rad-scores than patients with early-stage rectal cancer. The nomogram incorporated Rad-scores and carcinoembryonic antigen levels and showed good discrimination, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.882 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.835–0.930) in the training dataset and 0.846 (95% CI 0.757–0.936) in the validation dataset. The calibration curves confirmed high goodness of fit, and the decision curve analysis revealed the clinical value. A prospective analysis demonstrated that the AUC of the nomogram to predict LARC was 0.859 (95% CI 0.730–0.987).

Conclusion

A radiomics-based nomogram is a novel method for predicting LARC and can provide support in clinical decision making.
Impact of the COVID-19 lockdown on the adherence of stroke patients to direct oral anticoagulants: a secondary analysis from the MAAESTRO study
Authors: Dietrich Fine , Polymeris Alexandros A. , Verbeek Melina , Engelter Stefan T. , Hersberger Kurt E. , Schaedelin Sabine , Arnet Isabelle , Lyrer Philippe A.
Published: June 2021

Background

The negative impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on stroke care has been reported, but no data exist on the influence of the lockdown on medication adherence to antithrombotic treatment for stroke prevention. We present a comparison of electronic adherence data of stroke patients treated with direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) prior to and during the COVID-19 lockdown in spring 2020 in Switzerland.

Methods

This is a secondary analysis using data from the ongoing MAAESTRO study, in which stroke patients with atrial fibrillation electronically monitor their adherence to DOAC treatment. Eligible patients for this analysis had at least four weeks of adherence data prior to and during the COVID-19 lockdown. Three adherence metrics (taking adherence, timing adherence, drug holidays) were calculated and compared descriptively.

Results

The analysis included eight patients (median age 81.5 years, IQR 74.8–84.5). Five patients had a pre-lockdown taking adherence over 90% (mean 96.8% ± 2.9), with no change during lockdown, high timing adherence in both periods and no drug holidays. The remaining three patients had pre-lockdown taking and timing adherence below 90%. Of those, two patients showed a moderate decline either in taking or timing adherence compared to pre-lockdown. One showed a substantial increase in taking and timing adherence during lockdown (both + 25.8%).

Conclusion

Our data suggest that a major disruption of social life (i.e., the imposed COVID-19 lockdown) is unlikely to relevantly affect the medication intake behaviour of patients with high pre-established adherence, but might have an impact in patients with previously suboptimal adherence.

Trial registration number

MAAESTRO: electronic Monitoring and improvement of Adherence to direct oral Anticoagulant treatment—a randomized crossover study of an Educational and reminder-based intervention in ischaemic STROke patients under polypharmacy, NCT03344146.