bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neoadjuvant gemcitabine and nab‐paclitaxel for borderline resectable pancreatic cancers: Intention‐to‐treat analysis compared with upfront surgery
Authors: Inoue Yosuke , Saiura Akio , Oba Atsushi , Ono Yoshihiro , Mise Yoshihiro , Ito Hiromichi , Sasaki Takashi , Ozaka Masato , Sasahira Naoki , Takahashi Yu
Published: October 2020

Background/Purpose

We evaluated efficacy of neoadjuvant therapy with gemcitabine and nab‐paclitaxel (GNP‐NAT) in borderline resectable pancreatic cancer (BR‐PC) patients compared to conventional upfront surgery (UPS).

Methods

This single‐center retrospective study assessed 151 consecutive patients: 96 diagnosed in 2008‐2014 underwent UPS (UPS group) and 55 diagnosed in 2015‐2017 underwent GNP‐NAT (GN group). Patient background, surgical, pathological, and survival outcomes were compared between groups.

Results

Age, sex, and pretreatment carbohydrate antigen 19‐9 were similar between groups. After four courses of NAT‐GNP, 46 GN patients (84%) underwent surgery while all UPS patients underwent surgery. Only three GN patients (5%) underwent non‐therapeutic procedures, compared to 23 (24%) in the UPS group (P = .004). In the whole cohort, R0‐resection was achieved in 40 GN patients (73%) vs 46 UPS patients (48%; P = .004) and the 3‐year overall survival was significantly higher in the GN group (median survival time, 31.9 vs 18.1 months, P = .014). In the resection cohort, the R0‐resection rate was 93% (GN) vs 63% (UPS; P = .0007). There was no 90‐day mortalities in either group.

Conclusions

Intention‐to‐treat‐based analysis indicated considerable benefits of GNP‐NAT in BR‐PCs for long‐term survival, contributing to improved tumor suppression and patient selection.
Optimal fermentation time for Nigrospora‐fermented tea rich in bostrycin
Authors: Li Jinhan , Shi Le , Xu Shiyao , Gu Siyi , Wen Xue , Xu Danyan , Luo Junyan , Huang Youyi , Wang Mo
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

Bostrycin has many biological functions, such as anticancer activity, and is becoming increasingly popular. Nigrospora sphaerica HCH285, which has the ability to produce high levels of bostrycin, can be used to ferment sun‐dried green tea of Camellia sinensis through acclimation, resulting in the development of a Nigrospora‐fermented tea. The effects of fermentation time on the production of bostrycin by the HCH285 strain were investigated.

RESULTS

After 45 days of fermentation, the bostrycin content reached 3.18 g kg–1, which is the highest level during the whole fermentation. At 50 days, the tea liquor was red, had a strong mushroom odour and a sweet taste, and presented optimal quality. The contents of free amino acids, tea polyphenols and soluble sugars in the fermented tea decreased generally during the fermentation, although the content of water‐soluble substances increased. Additionally, the results of a 14‐day acute oral toxicity test showed that Nigrospora‐fermented tea was nontoxic.

CONCLUSION

The optimum fermentation time of Nigrospora‐fermented tea was concluded to be 45–50 days. These results provide insights with respect to the development of tea biotechnology and new tea products with active ingredients. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Crystallization and strength analysis of amorphous maltose and maltose/whey protein isolate mixtures
Authors: Wu Yaowen , Huang Wanling , Cui Tingting , Fan Fanghui
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

Maltose is an essential derivative of starch. To understand the processability and stability of maltose‐containing foods, material characterization of the phase and state transition from its amorphous state is required. Although the crystallization of amorphous maltose is well understood, few studies have reported the relationship between the crystallization and the glass transition temperature (Tg)‐related molecular mobility. In this study, water sorption, crystallization, Tg‐related α‐relaxation, and the corresponding time factor for amorphous maltose and maltose / whey protein isolate (WPI) mixtures are measured at various water activity (aw) levels and 25 °C.

RESULTS

The water‐additive principle for maltose / WPI mixtures was observed at aw ≤ 0.440 at the molecular level, whereas the crystallization of amorphous maltose occurred at high aw values (≥0.534). The crystal formation and crystallization kinetics of amorphous maltose were affected by water and WPI at aw ≥ 0.534 and 25 °C, as determined by X‐ray diffraction. The relationship between Tg and the water content was fitted by the Gordon–Taylor model, and its constant showed a compositional dependence for the maltose / WPI mixtures. The α‐relaxation temperature of the amorphous samples decreased due to water plasticization, but increased with an increase in the WPI quantity. The Strength (S) value for amorphous maltose, which was a quantitative estimate of the compositional effects on molecular mobility, was based on the William–Landel–Ferry (WLF) equation.

CONCLUSION

The S concept exhibits considerable potential for application in controlling the crystallization of amorphous maltose and improving the processability and stability of maltose‐containing foods. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Green reversed‐phase HPLC development strategy: Application to artesunate and amodiaquine analysis
Authors: Yabré Moussa , Ferey Ludivine , Somé Touridomon Issa , Mercier Olivier , Gaudin Karen
Published: October 2020

A green analytical chemistry strategy is described to develop a reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography method for amodiaquine and artesunate analysis using ethanol‐based mobile phases. This method development was particularly challenging due to the basicity of amodiaquine and low UV absorption of artesunate, leading to peak asymmetry and detection issues, respectively. UV detection concern was even more challenging due to the baseline drift observed with ethanol in gradient mode. Several green pH modifiers were selected for their ecofriendly character and their impact on peak shape and detection was investigated. The screening of various stationary phases (19 columns) appeared as a relevant and necessary approach to reach satisfactory peak shape of basic compounds. To support the results of this study, some additional compounds related to artesunate and amodiaquine structures were included. Methods were optimized and validated using total error approach with a mobile phase composed of ethanol and 10 mM formic acid using three different stationary phases from different manufacturers, providing flexibility of the quality control approach. Method greenness was assessed using the National Environmental Methods Index, the Green Analytical Procedure Index, and the Analytical Eco‐Scale. Finally, artesunate and amodiaquine were successfully analyzed in fixed dose combination tablets.
Vascular pedicled flaps for skull base defect reconstruction
Authors: Gutierrez Wade R. , Bennion Douglas M. , Walsh Jarrett E. , Owen Scott R.
Published: October 2020

Objective

Techniques for reconstruction of skull base defects have advanced greatly since the introduction of the vascular pedicled nasoseptal flap in 2006. The objective of this review is to assess the current state of the field by examining both intranasal and extranasal techniques of vascular pedicled skull base defect repair, their indications and success rates, and novel techniques that are currently under investigation.

Methods

A review of the literature describing the use of vascular pedicled flaps in skull base defect reconstruction was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar.

Results

The nasoseptal flap remains the most widely used vascular pedicled flap for endoscopic repair of skull base defects. Its ease of harvest, wide arch of rotation, and high success rates make it a popular choice among surgeons. Several variations including a “rescue” nasopseptal flap have been developed. Other less commonly used pedicled intranasal flaps include the middle turbinate flap and the posterior pedicled inferior turbinate flap. Additionally, several novel vascular pedicled flaps have been developed and tested in small cohorts of patients. Extranasal flaps such as the pericranial flap and the temporoparietal fascia flap are used less frequently than intranasal flaps. However, they remain valuable options for reconstruction in certain situations.

Conclusion

Advancements continue to be made in the field of skull base defect reconstruction using vascular pedicled flaps. Though the nasoseptal flap remains the most widely utilized option, additional intranasal techniques continue to be developed and tested to optimize surgical outcomes and patient care.

Level of Evidence

NA
Production and characterization of the 13C/15N single‐labeled insecticidal protein Cry1Ab/Ac using recombinant Escherichia coli
Authors: Wang Zibo , Hu Cong , Sun Yu , Jiang Wei , Wu Guogan , Pan Aihu , Li Peng , Tang Xueming
Published: October 2020

Synthetic Cry1Ab/Ac proteins expressed by genetically modified (GM) crops have a high potential to control insect pests without utilizing large amounts of chemical insecticides. Before these crops are used in agriculture, the environmental fate and interactions in the soil must be understood. Stable isotope‐labeled Cry1Ab/Ac protein is a highly useful tool for collecting such data. We developed a protocol to produce 13C/15N single‐labeled Cry proteins. The artificially synthesized gene Cry1Ab/Ac of Bt rice Huahui No. 1, which has been certified by the Chinese government to be safe for human consumption, was subcloned into pUC57, and the expression vector pET‐28a‐CryAb/Ac was constructed and transformed into Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) competent cells. Next, 0.2 mM isopropyl thiogalactoside (IPTG) was added to these cells and cultured at 37°C for 4 h to induce the synthesis and formation of inclusion bodies in M9 growth media containing either [U‐13C] glucose (5% 13C‐enriched) or [15N] ammonium chloride (5% 15N‐enriched). Then, Cry inclusion bodies were dissolved in urea and purified by affinity chromatography under denaturing conditions, renatured by dialysis, and further detected by sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) and Western blotting. The purities of 13C/15N‐labeled Cry proteins reached 99% with amounts of 12.6 mg/L and 8.8 mg/L, respectively. The δ 13C and ä 15N values of 13C‐labeled Cry protein and 15N‐labeled Cry protein were 3,269‰ and 2,854‰, respectively. A bioassay test revealed that the labeled Cry1Ab/Ac proteins had strong insecticidal activity. The stable isotope‐labeled insecticidal Cry proteins produced for the first time in this study will provide an experimental basis for future metabolic studies on Cry proteins in soil and the characteristics of nitrogen (N) and carbon (C) transformations. Our findings may also be employed as a reference for elucidating the environmental behavior and ecological effects of BT plants and expressed products.
Insertion of an Alu‐like element in MLH1 intron 7 as a novel cause of Lynch syndrome
Authors: Li Yirong , Salo‐Mullen Erin , Varghese Anna , Trottier Magan , Stadler Zsofia K. , Zhang Liying
Published: October 2020

Background

Lynch Syndrome (LS) is caused by germline mutations in the DNA mismatch repair (MMR) genes with mutations in MLH1 accounting for ~40% of LS‐related alterations.

Methods

MSK‐IMPACT analysis was performed on peripheral blood from a patient with early‐ onset colorectal cancer. Subsequently PCR and sequencing was performed to characterize the insertion. Immunohistochemistry for MMR genes and MLH1 promoter methylation were analyzed on patient's tumor.

Results

MSK‐IMPACT germline testing revealed an insertion into c.588+8_588+9 of MLH1 intron 7. The insertion was further characterized as an AluSx‐like element with ~115 bp in length. Functional studies demonstrated that the AluSx‐like element led to complete disruption of mRNA splicing and probably resulted in transcriptional termination at the poly (A) region of the AluSx‐like insertion.

Conclusions

The insertion of a truncated AluSx like element into MLH1 intron 7 results in aberrant splicing and transcription, thereby causing Lynch syndrome. This study confirms that retrotransposon insertions may be an important mechanism for cancer predisposition.
Collegial surface acting emotional labour, burnout and intention to leave in novice and pre‐retirement nurses in the United Kingdom: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Theodosius Catherine , Koulouglioti Christina , Kersten Paula , Rosten Claire
Published: October 2020

Aim

To investigate the relationship between surface and deep acting in nurses' patient‐focused and collegial emotional labour, with emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and personal accomplishment and intention to leave.

Design

A cross‐sectional descriptive study using the Emotional Labour Scale, the Maslach Burnout Inventory and intention to leave Yes/No questions with 118 Registered Nurses to measure patient‐focused and collegial emotional labour, burnout and intention to leave.

Results

Surface acting in patient‐focused and collegial emotional labour was found to have positive associations with burnout and intention to leave their current job. Only surface acting in patient‐focused emotional labour was positively associated with intention to leave the organization and/or the profession. The novice nurses carried out more deep acting collegial emotional labour than the pre‐retirement nurses.

Conclusions

Collegial emotional labour is significant to nurses' intention to leave their current job but not their intention to leave the organization and/or the profession.
Can Website quality Moderate the Relationship between Information‐task‐fit and Electronic word of mouth?
Authors: Tarkang Marymagdaline Enowmbi , Ozturen Ali , Alola Uju Violet
Published: October 2020

Information technology expertise has comprehensively revamped and made well recognized, the hospitality and tourism industry. Electronic businesses, which are different type of commercial business was constructed and established with the help of the internet, and this now affects the way clients react. The current research seeks to explore the effect of information‐task‐fit, on electronic word of mouth (eWOM) of users of Turkish airlines. Furthermore, the present study examines the moderating role of website quality on the aforementioned relationship. Six hundred and four usable questionnaires were obtained online within a 6 month period with the use of Google forms The current study used a quantitative and cross‐sectional type of research method. The anticipated interactions were estimated using structural equation modeling. All anticipated relationships were supported, with discernment that the availability of users required information on the website impacted them to engage in eWOM. As hypothesized, the quality of the website, moderated the relationship between information‐task‐fit (INTF) and eWOM. The consequences of the present research proposes comprehensions into maintaining and why not improving the website quality by making the website user friendly, so as to attract potential users and keep current users. This study's complete model is scare in the airline service literature. In consequence there should be an added research on the influence of information task fit website information and design on supposed service quality and internet word of mouth. Managers should also uphold an elevation website ethics by employing good professional website builders to attract their usage. This study offers inferences for airline website quality.
Discussing non‐invasive prenatal testing on Reddit: The benefits, the concerns, and the comradery
Authors: Marcon Alessandro R. , Ravitsky Vardit , Caulfield Timothy
Published: October 2020

Objective

As the use of non‐invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) increases, its benefits and concerns are being examined through surveys, qualitative studies, and bioethical analysis. However, only scant research has examined public discourse on the topic. This research examined NIPT discussions on the social media platform Reddit.

Method

Content and qualitative description analysis was performed on 98 NIPT discussions (2682 comments), obtained by inputting “NIPT” into Reddit's search engine.

Results

Detailing of benefits and concerns was found in collaborative and supportive discussions. Overall, NIPT is seen as valuable and desirable. Some concerns focused on cost‐related barriers to access, anxiety related to testing, and interpretation of results. NIPT is often portrayed as offering peace of mind and is sometimes described as a means of preparing for possible outcomes.

Conclusion

In the discussions analyzed, NIPT is seen, overall, as valuable and greater access to it is desired. Some questions and concerns about NIPT were evident. Reddit stands as a valuable and appreciated tool for individuals wishing to discuss NIPT and to solicit and share information, opinions, and experiences. Health care providers should consider the ways social platforms such as Reddit can be engaged to better inform and educate the public.
How bilayer properties influence membrane protein folding
Authors: Corin Karolina , Bowie James U.
Published: October 2020

The question of how proteins manage to organize into a unique three‐dimensional structure has been a major field of study since the first protein structures were determined. For membrane proteins, the question is made more complex because, unlike water‐soluble proteins, the solvent is not homogenous or even unique. Each cell and organelle has a distinct lipid composition that can change in response to environmental stimuli. Thus, the study of membrane protein folding requires not only understanding how the unfolded chain navigates its way to the folded state, but also how changes in bilayer properties can affect that search. Here we review what we know so far about the impact of lipid composition on bilayer physical properties and how those properties can affect folding. A better understanding of the lipid bilayer and its effects on membrane protein folding is not only important for a theoretical understanding of the folding process, but can also have a practical impact on our ability to work with and design membrane proteins.
Soil organic carbon sequestration calculated from depth distribution
Authors: Franzluebbers Alan J.
Published: October 2020

Sequestration of organic C in agricultural soils is necessary to improve soil health to meet the challenges of climate change, diminishing biodiversity, water quality deterioration, and rising demands for food and fiber production. New assessment approaches are needed to quantify how conservation agriculture might contribute to soil health improvement and soil organic C (SOC) sequestration. In the southeastern United States, conservation management has been repeatedly shown to stratify SOC concentration with depth. Starting immediately below a zone of tillage influence (i.e., 30‐cm depth), SOC concentration is rarely affected by management due to low C inputs and high decomposition potential, whereas concentration increases toward the surface in a nonlinear manner, presumably with greater inputs of residue and root inputs and changing temperature and moisture conditions. Using these observations as an ecological foundation, SOC sequestration was calculated as the summation of SOC stock greater than the baseline condition at 30‐cm depth. Data from literature sources were mathematically fitted with this new approach as a validation. Two on‐farm surveys with different agricultural management practices (5–40 yr) in the southeastern United States yielded preliminary estimates of SOC sequestration. The interquartile range of calculated SOC sequestration was 4.2–9.4 Mg C ha–1 for conventional‐tillage cropland (n = 45 fields), 13.6–29.7 Mg C ha–1 for no‐tillage cropland (n = 97 fields), and 15.9–26.1 Mg C ha–1 for perennial pasture (n = 29 fields). This new approach will be valuable to estimate SOC sequestration from a greater diversity of conservation agricultural systems practiced on farms within a region and independent of soil type.
Slope‐scale spatial variability of fractal dimension of soil particle size distribution at multiple depths
Authors: Zou Xinyu , Zhang Zhuodong , Wu Mengyao , Wan Yuanqiang
Published: October 2020

Particle size distribution (PSD) is one of the most important properties of soil, and fractal dimension of PSD (FD) is an accurate and useful description of PSD. In this study, PSD at 11 separates for 32 sampling points at six depths in a slope of the Bashang area in the agro‐pastoral transition zone of North China was determined by the pipette method. Spatial variability of FD at the six depths was analyzed using geostatistics and inverse distance weighting interpolation, and the relationships between FD and soil properties and environmental factors were investigated. Results show that the spatial variability of FD is weaker than that of PSD and that FD has strong spatial autocorrelation at most depths, except at the surface layer. With increasing depth, FD tends to decrease, and its spatial variability tends to increase. The distribution of FD varies across the slope. Fractal dimension of PSD of the concave slope is higher than that of the convex slope. Relative elevation is the main influencing factor at the slope scale, and its effects vary at different depths and slope shapes, which are more significant on the concave slope. Slope gradient and vegetation have little influence on FD. Fractal dimension of PSD can serve as a comprehensive parameter to reflect the characteristics of PSD, bulk density, soil organic C, and magnetic susceptibility. Spatial variability of FD at different depths at small scale can contribute to improving the accuracy of predictive soil mapping and more precise soil resource management.
Recent Advances of Conjugated Microporous Polymers in Visible Light–Promoted Chemical Transformations
Authors: Qian Zhuangfei , Zhang Kai A. I.
Published: October 2020

In the past decades, enormous efforts have been put into visible light–promoted photocatalytic chemical transformations. Among the intensely studied photocatalytic systems, metal‐free, pure organic and heterogeneous photocatalysts based on conjugated microporous polymers (CMPs), a class of organic porous materials featuring π‐conjugated backbone and permanent microporosity, draw much attention. The CMP‐based photocatalysts are highly attractive because of their pure organic nature, ease of synthesis, structural diversity, and nontoxicity, as well as low costs. Over the past years, various CMPs have been synthesized for a broad range of photocatalytic applications. Herein, the aim is to deliver an updated summary of this field with the focus on crucial factors, which largely affect the catalytic performance of CMPs. To name a few, band structure, charge separation and transfer, and morphology are described combined with specific energy‐ and organosynthesis‐related applications such as water splitting, CO2 reduction, organic photoredox reactions, etc.
Directional analysis for point patterns on linear networks
Authors: Moradi Mehdi , Mateu Jorge , Comas Carles
Published: October 2020

Statistical analysis of point processes often assumes that the underlying process is isotropic in the sense that its distribution is invariant under rotation. For point processes on
, some tests based on the K‐function and nearest neighbour orientation function have been proposed to check such an assumption. However, anisotropy and directional analysis need proper caution when dealing with point processes on linear networks, as the implicit geometry of the network forces particular directions that the points of the pattern have to necessarily meet. In this paper, we adapt such tests to the case of linear networks and discuss how to use them to detect particular directional preferences, even at some angles that are different from the main angles imposed by the network. Through a simulation study, we check the performance of our proposals under different settings, over a linear network and a dendrite tree, showing that they are able to precisely detect the directional preferences of the points in the pattern, regardless the type of spatial interaction and the geometry of the network. We use our tests to highlight the directional preferences in the spatial distribution of traffic accidents in Barcelona (Spain), during 2019, and in Medellin (Colombia), during 2016.
Genome‐wide association analysis of sucrose concentration in soybean (Glycine max L.) seed based on high‐throughput sequencing
Authors: Sui Meinan , Wang Yue , Bao Yuyue , Wang Xi , Li Ruiqiong , Lv Yan , Yan Ming , Quan Chao , Li Chunxia , Teng Weili , Li Wenbin , Zhao Xue , Han Yingpeng
Published: October 2020

The sucrose concentration in soybean seed significantly affects the flavor of soybean‐derived products. In this study, an association panel of 178 elite accessions and 33,149 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) was utilized to identify quantitative trait nucleotides (QTNs) of sucrose concentration in soybean seeds by genome‐wide association study (GWAS). Five QTNs (rs2688589, rs29026218, rs5926884, rs6886889, and rs10299216) distributed across five genomic regions in five chromosomes were identified in two or more locations by GWAS. A total of 60 candidate genes near the 200‐kb flanking region of these five identified loci were identified. Three of these genes (Glyma.04G032600, Glyma.04G034600, and Glyma.11G092100) have been reported to be involved in the process of sugar biosynthesis. Based on gene‐based association and haplotype analyses, a total of 35 SNPs from 10 genes associated with sucrose concentration were identified. Of them, Glyma.04G032600 was the only gene that has been reported to be related to sucrose content; the other nine genes were novel and may be associated with sucrose content. These beneficial alleles and candidate genes may be of great value in improving sucrose content in soybean seeds.
Comparing and Clustering Residential Layouts Using a Novel Measure of Grating Difference
Authors: Xiao Ran
Published: October 2020

Clustering is widely used as a knowledge discovery method in scientific studies but is not often used in architectural research. This paper applies clustering to a dataset of 129 residential layouts, which were collected from contemporary architectural practices, to reveal underlying design patterns. To achieve this, this paper introduces a novel measure for the topological properties of layouts: ‘grating difference measure’. It was benchmarked against an alternative that measures geometrical properties and the advantages are explained. The grating difference measure indicates the extent of design differences, which is used in the clustering method to obtain the distance between datapoints. The results from clustering were grouped into design schematics and qualitatively assessed, showing a convincing separation of characteristics. The method demonstrated in this paper may be used to reveal topological patterns in datasets of existing designs for both academic and practical purposes.
3D printing orthopedic scoliosis braces: a test comparing FDM with thermoforming
Authors: Redaelli Davide Felice , Abbate Valentina , Storm Fabio Alexander , Ronca Alfredo , Sorrentino Andrea , De Capitani Cristina , Biffi Emilia , Ambrosio Luigi , Colombo Giorgio , Fraschini Paolo
Published: October 2020

In recent years, 3D printing gained considerable attention in the orthopedic sector. This work evaluates the feasibility of producing orthopedic scoliosis braces by 3D printing, comparing performance and costs with classical thermoforming procedures. Critical parameters, such as manufacture time, mechanical properties, weight, and comfort are carefully considered. Polyethylene terephthalate glycol-modified (PETG) was selected among the several filaments materials present on the market. Printed samples were analyzed with electronic microscope, tensile, and impact tests and compared with thermoformed polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) samples. Moreover, a cost analysis was carried out for the specific application. The thermoformed brace of a volunteer patient affected by scoliosis was reproduced using reverse-engineering techniques. The model was then printed as a single piece and postprocessed by an expert orthotist. Subsequently, the patient wore the brace in a pilot case to compare comfort and mechanical effectiveness. Results show that the 3D printing fabrication method is able to provide a valid alternative to the current fabrication methods, being also very competitive in terms of costs. The morphological analysis does not show critical defects in 3D printed samples, while the mechanical tests highlighted their anisotropy, with an overall brittleness of PETG samples in the direction orthogonal to the fibers. However, in terms of mechanical stresses, a back brace should never reach the polymer yield stress, otherwise the shape would be modified and the therapeutic effect could be compromised. Finally, the patient reported the perception of improved support and no significant comfort differences compared with the thermoformed brace.
Wiederverwertung ausgehobener Molasse basierend auf geologischer Untergrundmodellierung für den geplanten 100 km Teilchenbeschleuniger-Tunnel am CERN nahe Genf, Schweiz
Authors: Haas Maximilian
Published: October 2020

Das CERN (Conseil Européen pour la Recherche Nucléaire bzw. European Laboratory for Particle Physics) ist eine weltweit führende internationale Forschungseinrichtung auf dem Gebiet der Hochenergie- und Teilchenphysik. Die Erforschung der grundlegenden Bausteine des Universums und ihrer Interaktionen lieferte in den vergangenen Jahrzehnten bahnbrechende Erkenntnisse, die im experimentellen Nachweis des Higgs-Boson im Juli 2012 gipfelten. Um die in diesem Zusammenhang erforschten Erkenntnisse weiter zu vertiefen und noch unbeantwortete Fragen nach dem Ursprung und der Funktion des Universums zu beantworten, hat eine internationale Gemeinschaft von über 150 Instituten weltweit am CERN eine Studie für ein Forschungsprogramm mit einer neuen, leistungsfähigeren Teilchenbeschleunigerinfrastruktur initiiert. Die Future Circular Collider (FCC) Studie schließt die dafür erforderlichen unterirdischen Tunnel, Kavernen und Schächte und die damit verbundenen Konstruktionen an der Oberfläche mit ein. Die Infrastruktur ist so ausgelegt, um im Zusammenschluss mit den bereits bestehenden Teilchenbeschleunigern am CERN (z. B. PSB, PS, SPS, LHC) zu funktionieren. Im Rahmen des Projekts wurden seit 2014 die ersten technischen Machbarkeitsstudien in den verschiedensten Gebieten, unter anderem Geologie und Konstruktion des Tunnels, der sich über ca. 100 km im teils westschweizerischen und teils französischen Molassebecken erstreckt, durchgeführt, sodass FCC nach derzeitigem Planungsstand um das Jahr 2040 in Betrieb gehen kann. Im Zuge dessen ist ein geologisches Untergrundmodell unerlässlich, um einen sicheren Bau unterirdischer Infrastruktur zu gewährleisten und die Baumethode auf die Geologie abzustimmen. Ein entscheidender Faktor neben dem geologischen Modell ist die Wiederverwertbarkeit des ausgehobenen Molasse-Materials mit einem Volumen von etwa 9 Mio. m3 sowohl aus technischer als auch rechtlicher, gesellschaftspolitischer und sozio-ökonomischer Sicht.

Dieser Artikel soll einen Einblick in diese beiden Machbarkeitsstudien des FCC Projekts geben, sowie Ansätze der geologischen, petrophysikalischen, geotechnischen und mineralogisch-chemischen Analysen präsentieren, die zur Beantwortung der Wiederverwertung dienen und in weiterer Folge in das geologische Untergrundmodell einfließen werden.
Advanced automated emergency control strategy for embedded VSC-HVDC links
Authors: Polster Stefan , Renner Herwig , Friedl Katrin , Samuelsson Olof
Published: October 2020

This paper proposes an advanced emergency control strategy for embedded VSC-HVDC links after AC disturbances, such as line tripping and generation loss. The control goals are to minimize the impact of the disturbance on the AC-network, which includes improving the long-term voltage stability with utilizing possible unloading capacity of parallel AC elements. The proposed algorithm is evaluated against other control strategies for embedded VSC-HVDC links by applying it to a simple demonstration network. The test system includes all necessary VSC converter dynamics, the VSC-HVDC link current and voltage limits and simple load recovery characteristics for an evaluation of the long term voltage stability. The simulation results are explained and the advantages of the proposed emergency control strategy are discussed.
Die Borderline-Persönlichkeitsstörung in den psychosozialen, psychotherapeutischen und psychiatrischen Versorgungssystemen von Deutschland
Authors: Grabe Hans J. , Giertz Karsten
Published: October 2020

In der psychosozialen, psychotherapeutischen und psychiatrischen Versorgung zählen Betroffene mit einer Borderline-Persönlichkeitsstörung zu einer häufig anzutreffenden Gruppe von Patient_innen. Obwohl mehrere Langzeitstudien hohe Remissionsraten bei den störungsspezifischen Symptomen nahe legen, weisen viele der Betroffenen mit einer Borderline-Persönlichkeitsstörung Beeinträchtigungen in den Bereichen psychosoziales Funktionsniveau, somatische Gesundheit, berufliche und soziale Integration auf, welche sich zumeist als sekundäre Krankheitsfolgen darstellen und negativ auf die Lebenszufriedenheit und gesellschaftliche Teilhabe auswirken. Ein wesentlicher Faktor bei dieser Entwicklung ist die prekäre Versorgungssituation der Betroffenen im ambulanten und komplementären Bereich. Der Großteil der Behandlung findet im Rahmen von kurzfristigen stationären Kriseninterventionen statt. Dies macht deutlich, dass es bisher nur unzureichend gelungen ist, diese Gruppe angemessen in den außerklinischen Bereichen zu versorgen. Im Rahmen des Beitrages wird ein allgemeiner Überblick zur Epidemiologie und zur Versorgungsforschung der Borderline-Persönlichkeitsstörung gegeben. Ausgehend von den aktuellen Erkenntnissen, machen die Autoren auf strukturelle Probleme und Schnittstellenproblematiken im ambulanten, komplementären und stationären Bereich aufmerksam und beschreiben Lösungsmöglichkeiten für eine angemessene Versorgung.
Welche Branchen sind ökonomisch systemrelevant?
Authors: Schneemann Christian , Weber Enzo , Wolter Marc Ingo , Zika Gerd
Published: October 2020

Im Zuge der Coronavirus-Pandemie stellt sich die Frage, welche Branchen systemrelevant sind. An erster Stelle stehen Bereiche wie Gesundheit und Pflege sowie alle Branchen, die die Versorgung des täglichen Bedarfs abdecken. Dabei reicht es jedoch nicht, nur die Branchen anzuschauen, die direkt für den Endverbrauch wichtig sind. Die gesamten Wertschöpfungsketten müssen betrachtet werden. Mithilfe der Input-Output-Rechnung werden die Vorleistungen einbezogen und die besonders systemrelevanten Branchen identifiziert.
Persistent farmland imaginaries: celebration of fertile soil and the recurrent ignorance of climate
Authors: Visser Oane
Published: October 2020

This article looks at how imaginaries of land and climate play a role in farmland investment discourses and practices. Foreign farmland investors in the fertile black earth region of Russia and Ukraine have ‘celebrated’ soil fertility while largely ignoring climatic factors. The article shows a centuries-long history of outsiders coming to the region lured by the fertile soils, while grossly underestimating climate which has had disastrous implications for farm viability and the environment. Comparisons with historical and contemporary literature on other regions (e.g. the US prairies and North Africa) suggest that the underestimation of climatic risks by newcomers is remarkably prevalent in resource frontiers.
Help-Seeking Patterns Among the General Population in Singapore: Results from the Singapore Mental Health Study 2016
Authors: Shafie Saleha , Subramaniam Mythily , Abdin Edimansyah , Vaingankar Janhavi Ajit , Sambasivam Rajeswari , Zhang Yunjue , Shahwan Shazana , Chang Sherilyn , Jeyagurunathan Anitha , Chong Siow Ann
Published: October 2020

This study aimed to establish lifetime mental health service utilisation among the general population of Singapore. The sociodemographic correlates of those seeking help from different service provider groups and changes in lifetime mental health service utilisation between 2010 and 2016 among those with mental disorders were also explored. A population-based cross-sectional epidemiological household survey of the Singapore resident population aged 18 years and above was conducted from 2016 to 2018, using the World Mental Health Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI) version 3.0. Data from two cross-sectional population-based studies were used for comparison of lifetime mental health service utilisation in 2010 (n = 6616) and 2016 (n = 6126). Chi square test and multiple logistic regression were used to analyse the data. A total of 6126 respondents completed the study in 2016. Overall 9.3% of the total sample, 32.0% of those with mental disorders, and 5.7% of those not meeting criteria for mental disorders, ever sought help for their mental health issues in their lifetime, from any treatment service sectors. Several sociodemographic characteristics were found to be correlated with different service provider groups. There was no change in mental health service utilisation between 2010 and 2016 for all mental disorders included in this study, with the exception of a significant increase in help sought from professionals in social services, among those with alcohol abuse. Even though the overall help-seeking rates are low, it is encouraging that those seeking help did so from mental health professionals and professionals working in the social services.
Feasibility of 18FDG PET in the cardiac inflammation
Authors: Osiecki Sebastian , Sterliński Maciej , Marciniak-Emmons Marta , Dziuk Mirosław
Published: October 2020

The aim of the study was to assess the feasibility of 18FDG PET in cardiac inflammation with a particular focus on the delayed scan. Thirty-five consecutive 18FDG PET scans of patients with suspected or confirmed cardiac inflammation were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were referred for PET because of endocarditis (n = 16) or sarcoidosis (n = 19). Among them four patients had two consecutive for follow up and treatment control (two patients with sarcoidosis, two with endocarditis). In all of the cases a standard head to mid-thigh scan was performed 45–60 min after 18FDG injection as well as a delayed heart scan 1 h after the standard imaging was performed. 18FDG PET confirmed active inflammation in 10 out of 35 scans. Delayed scans in positive cases showed SUVmax value increase, but did not have an impact on the result, neither they did in negative cases—no significant differences between standard and delayed scan were found. Interestingly in 5 out of 14 cases with suspected endocarditis PET revealed the extracardiac inflammation focus, thus changing initial diagnosis. 18FDG PET also indicated which prosthesis caused inflammation if there were many. In the sarcoidosis group the aim was to confirm or exclude heart involvement (13 scans) or to assess the response to the steroid therapy (6 scans) in patients with previously confirmed sarcoidosis. PET revealed active heart disease in 3 initial scans, and 1 follow up scan. 18FDG PET is a valuable imaging method for the cardiac inflammation assessment. It adequately localises the active inflammation site. Also, since it is a whole-body scan it may detect the extracardiac inflammation foci, which in some cases may change the initial diagnosis. In our study the delayed scans showed no added value.
Implications of Entry Restrictions to Address Externalities in Aquaculture: The Case of Salmon Aquaculture
Authors: Oglend Atle , Soini Vesa-Heikki
Published: October 2020

This paper investigates production license management when regulation constrains the number of production licenses to address production externalities. This is increasingly relevant for aquaculture production where disease issues threaten future seafood supply. The regulatory problem is analyzed in the context of Norwegian salmon aquaculture where a stop in issuance of new production licenses has been implemented to address social costs of parasitic sea lice. Our theoretical model shows that restricting number of licenses raises prices and shifts production efforts excessively towards greater stocking of fish per license. Hence, the policy cannot achieve a first-best welfare-maximizing allocation. Furthermore, restricting entry by limiting number of licenses can create regulatory rents, which effectively subsides rather than tax the source of the externality.
The Systemic Concept of Contextual Truth
Authors: Bielecki Andrzej
Published: October 2020

In this paper the truth is studied in the frame of autonomous systems theory. The method of the truth verification is worked out in its functional aspect. The verification is based on comparison of the predicted inner state of the autonomous agent, that is the cognitive subject, to the achieved inner state of the agent. The state is achieved as the result of performing the action in the real world—the agent’s environment. The action design is created on the basis of the agent’s model of the world. The truth is defined as the adequacy of the model of the real world in the context of the goal that is assumed to be reached as the effect of the performed action. The concepts of the cognitive subject, the truth bearings and the knowledge are redefined. The classical problems of aletheiology and epistemology are discussed in the light of the proposed approach. The cybernetic construct of an autonomous agent allows the researcher to consider a wide class of cognitive entities, which, in the previous approaches, have been limited only to human beings as cognitive subjects.
A qPCR method for distinguishing biomass from non-axenic terrestrial cyanobacteria cultures in hetero- or mixotrophic cultivations
Authors: Walther Jakob , Schwarz Anna , Witthohn Marco , Strieth Dorina , Muffler Kai , Ulber Roland
Published: October 2020

The cultivation of cyanobacteria with the addition of an organic carbon source (meaning as heterotrophic or mixotrophic cultivation) is a promising technique to increase their slow growth rate. However, most cyanobacteria cultures are infected by non-separable heterotrophic bacteria. While their contribution to the biomass is rather insignificant in a phototrophic cultivation, problems may arise in heterotrophic and mixotrophic mode. Heterotrophic bacteria can potentially utilize carbohydrates quickly, thus preventing any benefit for the cyanobacteria. In order to estimate the advantage of the supplementation of a carbon source, it is essential to quantify the proportion of cyanobacteria and heterotrophic bacteria in the resulting biomass. In this work, the use of quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) is proposed. To prepare the samples, a DNA extraction method for cyanobacteria was improved to provide reproducible and robust results for the group of terrestrial cyanobacteria. Two pairs of primers were used, which bind either to the 16S rRNA gene of all cyanobacteria or all bacteria including cyanobacteria. This allows a determination of the proportion of cyanobacteria in the biomass. The method was established with the two terrestrial cyanobacteria Trichocoleus sociatus SAG 26.92 and Nostoc muscorum SAG B-1453-12a. As proof of concept, a heterotrophic cultivation with T. sociatus with glucose was performed. After 2 days of cultivation, a reduction of the biomass partition of the cyanobacterium to 90% was detected. Afterwards, the proportion increased again.
Heuristic techniques for modelling machine spinning processes
Authors: Stryczek Roman , Wyrobek Kamil
Published: October 2020

In spite of many efforts made a complete model of machine spinning processes, due to its complexity, multidimensionality of the decision space and the present state of knowledge, is unachievable. The paper addresses the issues of constructing a local process model to enable the search for a locally optimal course of the process, within a short time and with the cost as low as possible. Comparison was made between the theoretically well-grounded response surface designs method with a few approaches to the model construction based on intuitively understood heuristic bases justified by their successful practical applications. In order to determine a set of Pareto-optimal solutions for a discrete decision space, the durations of process execution were generated through a virtual simulation. In order to outline and justify the adopted solutions a comprehensive example of the practical construction of the machine spinning process model was presented, including its various versions. The results obtained were validated and evaluated. The main utilitarian conclusion is the indication whereby basing on a partial experiment plan it is possible, thanks to simple heuristic methods, to obtain Pareto-optimal solutions which are close to those obtained when the full experiment plan is carried out.
Field-synchronized Digital Twin framework for production scheduling with uncertainty
Authors: Negri Elisa , Pandhare Vibhor , Cattaneo Laura , Singh Jaskaran , Macchi Marco , Lee Jay
Published: October 2020

Research on scheduling problems is an evergreen challenge for industrial engineers. The growth of digital technologies opens the possibility to collect and analyze great amount of field data in real-time, representing a precious opportunity for an improved scheduling activity. Thus, scheduling under uncertain scenarios may benefit from the possibility to grasp the current operating conditions of the industrial equipment in real-time and take them into account when elaborating the best production schedules. To this end, the article proposes a proof-of-concept of a simheuristics framework for robust scheduling applied to a Flow Shop Scheduling Problem. The framework is composed of genetic algorithms for schedule optimization and discrete event simulation and is synchronized with the field through a Digital Twin (DT) that employs an Equipment Prognostics and Health Management (EPHM) module. The contribution of the EPHM module inside the DT-based framework is the real time computation of the failure probability of the equipment, with data-driven statistical models that take sensor data from the field as input. The viability of the framework is demonstrated in a flow shop application in a laboratory environment.
Small amplitude chimeras for coupled clocks
Authors: Dudkowski Dawid , Jaros Patrycja , Czołczyński Krzysztof , Kapitaniak Tomasz
Published: October 2020

We report the arise of small amplitude chimera states in three coupled pendulum clocks suspended on an oscillating base. Two types of chimeras are identified and described by the character of the behaviour of particular units (which can be both regular or irregular). The regions of the appearance of the dynamical patterns are determined and the scenarios of their coexistence with typical synchronization states are discussed. We investigate the chimeras’ basins of attraction, showing that the arise of complex dynamics is not straightforward and highly depends on the system’s parameters and the initial conditions. The latter is confirmed by the probability analysis, exhibiting the rare character of the observed attractors. The scenarios of bifurcations between the chimeric patterns are studied and supported using the energy balance method, which allows to describe the changes of the energy flows between particular nodes of the system. The results presented in this paper confirm the ones obtained for the previous models, extending the analysis with an additional degree of freedom.