bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anti‐Swing control of the Pendubot using damper and spring with positive or negative stiffness
Authors: Xin Xin , Makino Kazunori , Izumi Shinsaku , Yamasaki Taiga , Liu Yannian
Published: March 2021

In this article, we study the anti‐swing control of the Pendubot which is a 2‐link planar robot with a single actuator driving the first joint, whose control objective is to stabilize the Pendubot to the downward equilibrium point (DEP) with the two links in the downward position for all its initial states with the exception of a set of Lebesgue measure zero. To achieve this control objective, with respect to the angle of the first joint, we presenta proportional‐derivative (PD) controllerusing a damper and a linear spring with positive stiffness, anda sinusoidal‐derivative (SD) controllerusing a damper and a nonlinear spring (force being sinusoidal function of the displacement) allowing even negative stiffness. We prove that the control objective is achieved if some conditions on the stiffness of linear or nonlinear spring are satisfied. We present analytical solutions to the optimal design of the derivative gain and the stiffness which minimizes the real parts of the dominant poles of the linearized model of the corresponding closed‐loop systems around the DEP for all Pendubots in terms of their five physical parameters without any constraint. Our discussion shows that the SD controller is superior to the PD controller. We provide simulation results for a Pendubot to show that the presented SD controller can stabilize the Pendubot to the DEP faster than the presented PD controller.
Persistence of CRISPR/Cas9 Gene Edited Hematopoietic Stem Cells Following Transplantation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Preclinical Studies
Authors: Maganti Harinad B. , Bailey Adrian J. M. , Kirkham Aidan M. , Shorr Risa , Pineault Nicolas , Allan David S.
Published: March 2021

Gene editing blood-derived cells is an attractive approach to cure selected monogenic diseases but remains experimental. A systematic search of preclinical controlled studies is needed to determine the persistence of edited cells following reinfusion. All studies identified in our systematic search (to 20 October 2020) examining the use of CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing in blood-derived cells for transplantation were included. Meta-analysis was performed to determine the engraftment and persistence of gene edited cells. A total of 3538 preclinical studies were identified with 15 published articles meeting eligibility for meta-analysis. These in vivo animal studies examined editing of hemoglobin to correct sickle cell disease (eight studies), inducing resistance to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (two studies), and six other monogenic disorders (single studies). CRISPR-Cas9 edited hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells demonstrated equivalent early engraftment compared to controls in meta-analysis but persistence of gene-edited cells was reduced at later time points and in secondary transplant recipients. Subgroup analysis in studies targeting the hemoglobin gene revealed a significant reduction in the persistence of gene-edited cells whether homology-directed repair or nonhomologous end-joining were used. No adverse side effects were reported. Significant heterogeneity in study design and outcome reporting was observed and the potential for bias was identified in all studies. CRISPR-Cas9 gene edited cells engraft similarly to unedited hematopoietic cells. Persistence of gene edited cells, however, remains a challenge and improved methods of targeting hematopoietic stem cells are needed. Reducing heterogeneity and potential risk of bias will hasten the development of informative clinical trials.
Corrected score methods for estimating Bayesian networks with error‐prone nodes
Authors: Huang Xianzheng , Zhang Hongmei
Published: March 2021

Motivated by inferring cellular signaling networks using noisy flow cytometry data, we develop procedures to draw inference for Bayesian networks based on error‐prone data. Two methods for inferring causal relationships between nodes in a network are proposed based on penalized estimation methods that account for measurement error and encourage sparsity. We discuss consistency of the proposed network estimators and develop an approach for selecting the tuning parameter in the penalized estimation methods. Empirical studies are carried out to compare the proposed methods with a naive method that ignores measurement error. Finally, we apply these methods to infer signaling networks using single cell flow cytometry data.
Experimental study and calculation method on the flexural resistance of reinforced concrete beam strengthened using high strain‐hardening ultra high performance concrete
Authors: Sun Qixin , Liu Chao
Published: March 2021

In this study, the efficiency of using high strain hardening ultra high performance concrete (HSH‐UHPC) on strengthening existing reinforced concrete beams was investigated by experimental and analytical means. First, the HSH‐UHPC constitutive relation was obtained using “Dog‐bone” specimen under uniaxial tensile test. Then three reinforced concrete beams strengthened with HSH‐UHPC layers and one control beam were tested under flexural loading. The midspan deflection, strain distribution, crack propagation and failure mode of the tested beams were described in detail. The tests verified that the middle section of UHPC‐NC composite beam basically conforms to the assumption of plane section. The flexural resistance of composite structure can be greatly improved by installing proper longitudinal reinforcement in UHPC layer. Meanwhile, numerical studies have been conducted on the tested beams using the experimentally obtained constitutive relations. The result shows that the finite element analysis results are consistent with the test results. Finally, a contribution factor for the HSH‐UHPC layer on the flexural resistance of the composite beam was proposed. At the same time, it is found that the contribution efficiency of the HSH‐UHPC to the flexural resistance increases with longitudinal reinforcement ratios in the HSH‐UHPC.
Introducing the Sun and SEPs
Authors: Reames Donald V.
Published: March 2021

The structure of the Sun, with its energy generation and heating, creates convection and differential rotation of the outer solar plasma. This convection and rotation of the ionized plasma generates the solar magnetic field. This field and its variation spawn all of the solar activity: solar active regions, flares, jets, and coronal mass ejections (CMEs). Solar activity provides the origin and environment for both the impulsive and gradual solar energetic particle (SEP) events. This chapter introduces the background environment and basic properties of SEP events, time durations, abundances, and solar cycle variations.
Einleitung
Authors: Schleicher Katharina
Published: March 2021

Im Kontext von Diskursen zur Klimapolitik und einer „Großen Transformation“ hin zu einer ressourcenschonenden Gesellschaft wird immer häufiger auch über die Rolle der Wissenschaft bei diesen Prozessen diskutiert. Eine Forschungsperspektive, die in diesem Zuge entwickelt wurde, ist die sogenannte „transformative Forschung“, bei der Forschende als Katalysatoren Wandel selbst initiieren und unterstützen. Dieser Forschungsansatz wird mithilfe des diskursiven Institutionalismus untersucht. Im einleitenden Kapitel werden die Problemstellung und die Forschungslücke dargestellt, gefolgt von der Forschungsfrage, den Zielen sowie dem Forschungsdesign. Zum Ende dieses Kapitels wird der Aufbau dieses Buches vorgestellt.
Schlussfolgerungen für Theorie und Forschungspraxis: vom veränderten Diskurs zur „Großen Transformation“
Authors: Schleicher Katharina
Published: March 2021

In diesem Kapitel werden einige der zentralen Thesen des diskursiven Institutionalismus weiterentwickelt. Dabei werden die Voraussetzungen für Transformation und die Definition von Gelegenheitsfenstern für Politikwandel verfeinert sowie neue Erkenntnisse bezüglich des Zusammenhangs zwischen graduellem und transformativem Wandel formuliert. Außerdem werden praktische Handlungsempfehlungen formuliert, wann es mithilfe der transformativen Forschung zu einer erfolgreichen Transformation kommen könnte. Im Hinblick auf die Praxisempfehlungen zeigt sich, dass der Ansatz transformativer Forschung durchaus erfolgversprechend ist, wenn einige Aspekte beachtet werden, so insbesondere die Kooperation mit lokalen Akteur*innen sowie die explizite Kommunikation der alternativen Paradigmen.
Methodisches Vorgehen
Authors: Freigang Sirkka
Published: March 2021

Das Wissen der Zukunft ist vernetzt, dezentral und interdisziplinär. Im Zentrum dieser Herausforderung stehen menschliche Bedürfnisse und nicht technische Möglichkeiten. Die vorliegende Disseration basiert auf einer transdisziplinären Zusammenführung unterschiedlicher Fachdisziplinen und bündelt Erkenntnisse aus Bildungswissenschaften, Informatik und Architektur verbunden mit dem Ziel, Einflussbereiche und Erfolgsfaktoren zu identifizieren, die im Gestaltungsprozess von menschenzentrierten Smart Learning Environments berücksichtigt werden müssen.
Synthesis Chapter
Authors: Gulati Ashok , Saini Shweta , Roy Ranjana
Published: March 2021

As stated in Chap. 1, the study presented in this book has four pillars and each pillar builds up sequentially and progressively. It starts by evaluating the relation between per capita agricultural GDP and the twin problems of poverty and malnutrition.
Arithmetic of higher-dimensional orbifolds and a mixed Waring problem
Authors: Browning Tim , Yamagishi Shuntaro
Published: March 2021

We study the density of rational points on a higher-dimensional orbifold$$(\mathbb {P}^{n-1},\Delta )$$(Pn-1,Δ)when$$\Delta $$Δis a$$\mathbb {Q}$$Q-divisor involving hyperplanes. This allows us to address a question of Tanimoto about whether the set of rational points on such an orbifold constitutes a thin set. Our approach relies on the Hardy–Littlewood circle method to first study an asymptotic version of Waring’s problem for mixed powers. In doing so we make crucial use of the recent resolution of the main conjecture in Vinogradov’s mean value theorem, due to Bourgain–Demeter–Guth and Wooley.
Adrenal venous sampling in primary hyperaldosteronism: correlation of hormone indices and collimated C-arm CT findings
Authors: Becker L. S. , Hinrichs M. H. , Werncke T. , Dewald C. L. A. , Maschke S. K. , Limbourg F. P. , Ringe K. I. , Hinrichs J. B. , Wacker F. , Meyer B. C.
Published: March 2021

Purpose

To evaluate the feasibility and effect of an approach to adrenal venous sampling (AVS) analysis by combining established selective cortisol and aldosterone indices with the acquisition of a collimated C-arm CT(CACTColl).

Methods

Overall, 107 consecutive patients (45f,62 m; 54 ± 10 years) undergoing 111 AVS procedures without hormonal stimulation from 7/13 to 2/20 in a single institution were retrospectively analysed. Hormone levels were measured in sequential samples of the suspected adrenal veins and right iliac vein, and selectivity indices (SI) computed. Stand-alone SICortisol and/or SIAldosterone ≥ 2.0 as well as SICortisol and/or SIAldosterone ≥ 1.1 combined with positive right-sided CACTColl of the adrenals (n = 80; opacified right adrenal vein) were defined as a successful AVS procedure. Radiation exposure of CACT was measured via dose area product (DAP) and weighed against an age-/weight-matched cohort (n = 66).

Results

Preliminary success rates (SICortisol and/or SIAldosterone ≥ 2.0) were 99.1% (left) and 72.1% (right). These could be significantly increased to a 90.1% success rate on the right, by combining an adjusted SI of 1.1 with a positive CACTColl proving the correct sampling position. Sensitivity for stand-alone collimated CACT (CACTColl) was 0.93, with 74/80 acquired CACTColl confirming selective cannulation by adrenal vein enhancement. Mean DAPColl_CACT measured 2414 ± 958 μGyxm2, while mean DAPFull-FOV_CACT in the matched cohort measured 8766 ± 1956 μGyxm2 (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Collimated CACT in AVS procedures is feasible and leads to a significant increase in success rates of (right-sided) selective cannulation and may in combination with adapted hormone indices, offer a successful alternative to previously published AVS analysis algorithms with lower radiation exposure compared to a full-FOV CACT.
Coe’s and the alternative to phenolic resins
Authors: Nickels Liz
Published: March 2021

Liz Nickels spoke to a well-established composite manufacturer in the UK about its range of bespoke products and the future of GRP.
Photosymbiosis in planktonic foraminifera across the Paleocene–Eocene thermal maximum
Authors: Shaw Jack O. , D'haenens Simon , Thomas Ellen , Norris Richard D. , Lyman Johnnie A. , Bornemann André , Hull Pincelli M.
Published: March 2021

Under stress, corals and foraminifera may eject or consume their algal symbionts (“bleach”), which can increase mortality. How bleaching relates to species viability over warming events is of great interest given current global warming. We use size-specific isotope analyses and abundance counts to examine photosymbiosis and population dynamics of planktonic foraminifera across the Paleocene–Eocene thermal maximum (PETM, ~56 Ma), the most severe Cenozoic global warming event. We find variable responses of photosymbiotic associations across localities and species. In the NE Atlantic (DSDP Site 401) PETM, photosymbiotic clades (acarininids and morozovellids) exhibit collapsed size-δ13C gradients indicative of reduced photosymbiosis, as also observed in Central Pacific (ODP Site 1209) and Southern Ocean (ODP Site 690) acarininids. In contrast, we find no significant loss of size-δ13C gradients on the New Jersey shelf (Millville) or in Central Pacific morozovellids. Unlike modern bleaching-induced mass mortality, populations of photosymbiont-bearing planktonic foraminifera increased in relative abundance during the PETM. Multigenerational adaptive responses, including flexibility in photosymbiont associations and excursion taxon evolution, may have allowed some photosymbiotic foraminifera to thrive. We conclude that deconvolving the effects of biology on isotope composition on a site-by-site basis is vital for environmental reconstructions.
THE PROHIBITION OF TORTURE AND PERSONS LIVING IN POVERTY: FROM THE MARGINS TO THE CENTRE
Authors: Oette Lutz
Published: March 2021

Torture of persons living in poverty has traditionally been at the margins of human rights interventions that have primarily focused on political and conflict related torture. This article examines the extent to which the evolving practice of human rights bodies and organisations evidences an emerging paradigm shift. It finds that a combination of a growing body of empirical research, novel approaches by human rights organisations and the work of bodies such as the Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture has increasingly brought into focus the heightened vulnerability to torture resulting from economic marginalisation and discrimination. Drawing on evidence of innovative practices, the article develops the framework for a contextual approach to the interpretation and implementation of States’ obligations under the prohibition of torture that is alive to the realities of systemic violence and the nexus between poverty and torture.
The role of the European small ruminant dairy sector in stabilising global temperatures: lessons from GWP* warming-equivalent emission metrics
Authors: del Prado Agustin , Manzano Pablo , Pardo Guillermo
Published: March 2021

Recent calls advocate that a huge reduction in the consumption of animal products (including dairy) is essential to mitigate climate change and stabilise global warming below the 1.5 and 2°C targets. The Paris Agreement states that to stabilise temperatures we must reach a balance between anthropogenic emissions by sources and removals by sinks of greenhouse gases (GHG) in the second half of this century. Consequently, many countries have adopted overall GHG reduction targets (e.g. EU, at least 40% by 2030 compared to 1990). However, using conventional metric-equivalent emissions (CO2-e GWP100) as the basis to account for emissions does not result in capturing the effect on atmospheric warming of changing emission rates from short-lived GHG (e.g. methane: CH4), which are the main source of GHG emissions by small ruminants. This shortcoming could be solved by using warming-equivalent emissions (CO2-we, GWP*), which can accurately link annual GHG emission rates to its warming effect in the atmosphere. In our study, using this GWP* methodology and different modelling approaches, we first examined the historical (1990–2018) contribution of European dairy small ruminant systems to additional atmosphere warming levels and then studied different emission target scenarios for 2100. These scenarios allow us to envision the necessary reduction of GHG emissions from Europe's dairy small ruminants to achieve a stable impact on global temperatures, i.e. to be climatically neutral. Our analysis showed that, using this type of approach, the whole European sheep and goat dairy sector seems not to have contributed to additional warming in the period 1990–2018. Considering each subsector separately, increases in dairy goat production has led to some level of additional warming into the atmosphere, but these have been compensated by larger emission reductions in the dairy sheep sector. The estimations of warming for future scenarios suggest that to achieve climate neutrality, understood as not adding additional warming to the atmosphere, modest GHG reductions of sheep and goat GHG would be required (e.g. via feed additives). This reduction would be even lower if potential soil organic carbon (SOC) from associated pastures is considered.
Conservation and natural resource management: where are all the women?
Authors: James Robyn , Gibbs Bridget , Whitford Laura , Leisher Craig , Konia Ruth , Butt Nathalie
Published: March 2021

There is evidence from the development and humanitarian sectors that purposeful engagement of women can increase the impact of development. We conducted a literature review to examine whether this is also evident in conservation and natural resource management. The following themes emerged from our review: existing societal and cultural norms affect and generally limit how women can engage in conservation and natural resource management; women interact differently with the environment than men, so if they are excluded, their knowledge and perspectives on particular resources may not be considered in conservation actions; and there is often a lack of resources or dedicated effort by conservation or natural resource management programmes to understand and address the barriers that prevent women's engagement. Although there was evidence of a positive relationship between the engagement of women and environmental outcomes, some studies showed that positive conservation outcomes do not necessarily benefit women, and when women are not considered, conservation activities can perpetuate existing inequities. We conclude that although the importance of integrating gender into conservation is acknowledged in the literature, there is a need to examine how women can be meaningfully engaged in conservation. This must go beyond treating women as a homogenous group, to consider intersectionality including race, ethnicity, age, religion, poverty and disability. In addition, conservation and natural resource management institutions need to address the inclusion of women in their own staff and programmes.
Real-time observation of frequency Bloch oscillations with fibre loop modulation
Authors: Chen Hao , Yang NingNing , Qin Chengzhi , Li Wenwan , Wang Bing , Han Tianwen , Zhang Chi , Liu Weiwei , Wang Kai , Long Hua , Zhang Xinliang , Lu Peixiang
Published: March 2021

Bloch oscillations (BOs) were initially predicted for electrons in a solid lattice to which a static electric field is applied. The observation of BOs in solids remains challenging due to the collision scattering and barrier tunnelling of electrons. Nevertheless, analogies of electron BOs for photons, acoustic phonons and cold atoms have been experimentally demonstrated in various lattice systems. Recently, BOs in the frequency dimension have been proposed and studied by using an optical micro-resonator, which provides a unique approach to controlling the light frequency. However, the finite resonator lifetime and intrinsic loss hinder the effect from being observed practically. Here, we experimentally demonstrate BOs in a synthetic frequency lattice by employing a fibre-loop circuit with detuned phase modulation. We show that a detuning between the modulation period and the fibre-loop roundtrip time acts as an effective vector potential and hence a constant effective force that can yield BOs in the modulation-induced frequency lattices. With a dispersive Fourier transformation, the pulse spectrum can be mapped into the time dimension, and its transient evolution can be precisely measured. This study offers a promising approach to realising BOs in synthetic dimensions and may find applications in frequency manipulations in optical fibre communication systems.
Tumour cells express functional lymphatic endothelium-specific hyaluronan receptor in vitro and in vivo: Lymphatic mimicry promotes oral oncogenesis?
Authors: Karinen Sini , Juurikka Krista , Hujanen Roosa , Wahbi Wafa , Hadler-Olsen Elin , Svineng Gunbjørg , Eklund Kari K. , Salo Tuula , Åström Pirjo , Salem Abdelhakim
Published: March 2021

Lymphatic metastasis represents the main route of tumour cell dissemination in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Yet, there are no FDA-approved therapeutics targeting cancer-related lymphangiogenesis to date. The lymphatic vessel endothelial hyaluronic acid receptor 1 (LYVE-1), a specific lymphatic marker, is associated with poor survival in OSCC patients. In this study, we present a potential novel mechanism of lymphatic metastasis in OSCC—lymphatic mimicry (LM), a process whereby tumour cells form cytokeratin+/LYVE-1+, but podoplanin-negative, mosaic endothelial-like vessels. LM was detected in one-third (20/57; 35.08%) of randomly selected OSCC patients. The LM-positive patients had shorter overall survival (OS) compared to LM-negative group albeit not statistically significant. Highly-metastatic tumour cells formed distinct LM structures in vitro and in vivo. Importantly, the siRNA-mediated knockdown of LYVE-1 not only impaired tumour cell migration but also blunted their capacity to form LM-vessels in vitro and reduced tumour metastasis in vivo. Together, our findings uncovered, to our knowledge, a previously unknown expression and function of LYVE-1 in OSCC, whereby tumour cells could induce LM formation and promote lymphatic metastasis. Finally, more detailed studies on LM are warranted to better define this phenomenon in the future. These studies could benefit the development of targeted therapeutics for blocking tumour-related lymphangiogenesis.
Asymmetry underlies stability in power grids
Authors: Molnar Ferenc , Nishikawa Takashi , Motter Adilson E.
Published: March 2021

Behavioral homogeneity is often critical for the functioning of network systems of interacting entities. In power grids, whose stable operation requires generator frequencies to be synchronized—and thus homogeneous—across the network, previous work suggests that the stability of synchronous states can be improved by making the generators homogeneous. Here, we show that a substantial additional improvement is possible by instead making the generators suitably heterogeneous. We develop a general method for attributing this counterintuitive effect to converse symmetry breaking, a recently established phenomenon in which the system must be asymmetric to maintain a stable symmetric state. These findings constitute the first demonstration of converse symmetry breaking in real-world systems, and our method promises to enable identification of this phenomenon in other networks whose functions rely on behavioral homogeneity.
Detection of copy number variation associated with ventriculomegaly in fetuses using single nucleotide polymorphism arrays
Authors: Xue Huili , Yu Aili , Lin Na , Chen Xuemei , Lin Min , Wang Yan , Huang Hailong , Xu Liangpu
Published: March 2021

Etiopathogenesis of fetal ventriculomegaly is poorly understood. Associations between fetal isolated ventriculomegaly and copy number variations (CNVs) have been previously described. We investigated the correlations between fetal ventriculomegaly—with or without other ultrasound anomalies—and chromosome abnormalities. 222 fetuses were divided into four groups: (I) 103 (46.4%) cases with isolated ventriculomegaly, (II) 41 (18.5%) cases accompanied by soft markers, (III) 33 (14.9%) cases complicated with central nervous system (CNS) anomalies, and (IV) 45 (20.3%) cases with accompanying anomalies. Karyotyping and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array were used in parallel. Karyotype abnormalities were identified in 15/222 (6.8%) cases. Karyotype abnormalities in group I, II, III, and IV were 4/103 (3.9%), 2/41 (4.9%), 4/33 (12.1%), and 5/45 (11.1%), respectively. Concerning the SNP array analysis results, 31/222 (14.0%) were CNVs, CNVs in groups I, II, III, and IV were 11/103 (10.7%), 6/41 (14.6%), 9/33 (27.3%), and 5/45 fetuses (11.1%), respectively. Detections of clinical significant CNVs were higher in non-isolated ventriculomegaly than in isolated ventriculomegaly (16.81% vs 10.7%, P = 0.19). SNP arrays can effectively identify CNVs in fetuses with ventriculomegaly and increase the abnormal chromosomal detection rate by approximately 7.2%, especially ventriculomegaly accompanied by CNS anomalies.
Whole genome methylation and transcriptome analyses to identify risk for cerebral palsy (CP) in extremely low gestational age neonates (ELGAN)
Authors: Massaro An N. , Bammler Theo K. , MacDonald James W. , Perez Krystle M. , Comstock Bryan , Juul Sandra E.
Published: March 2021

Preterm birth remains the leading identifiable risk factor for cerebral palsy (CP), a devastating form of motor impairment due to developmental brain injury occurring around the time of birth. We performed genome wide methylation and whole transcriptome analyses to elucidate the early pathogenesis of CP in extremely low gestational age neonates (ELGANs). We evaluated peripheral blood cell specimens collected during a randomized trial of erythropoietin for neuroprotection in the ELGAN (PENUT Trial, NCT# 01378273). DNA methylation data were generated from 94 PENUT subjects (n = 47 CP vs. n = 47 Control) on day 1 and 14 of life. Gene expression data were generated from a subset of 56 subjects. Only one differentially methylated region was identified for the day 1 to 14 change between CP versus no CP, without evidence for differential gene expression of the associated gene RNA Pseudouridine Synthase Domain Containing 2. iPathwayGuide meta-analyses identified a relevant upregulation of JAK1 expression in the setting of decreased methylation that was observed in control subjects but not CP subjects. Evaluation of whole transcriptome data identified several top pathways of potential clinical relevance including thermogenesis, ferroptossis, ribosomal activity and other neurodegenerative conditions that differentiated CP from controls.
Comparison of plasma and cerebrospinal fluid proteomes identifies gene products guiding adult neurogenesis and neural differentiation in birds
Authors: Voukali Eleni , Veetil Nithya Kuttiyarthu , Němec Pavel , Stopka Pavel , Vinkler Michal
Published: March 2021

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) proteins regulate neurogenesis, brain homeostasis and participate in signalling during neuroinflammation. Even though birds represent valuable models for constitutive adult neurogenesis, current proteomic studies of the avian CSF are limited to chicken embryos. Here we use liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (nLC-MS/MS) to explore the proteomic composition of CSF and plasma in adult chickens (Gallus gallus) and evolutionarily derived parrots: budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulatus) and cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus). Because cockatiel lacks a complete genome information, we compared the cross-species protein identifications using the reference proteomes of three model avian species: chicken, budgerigar and zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata) and found the highest identification rates when mapping against the phylogenetically closest species, the budgerigar. In total, we identified 483, 641 and 458 unique proteins consistently represented in the CSF and plasma of all chicken, budgerigar and cockatiel conspecifics, respectively. Comparative pathways analyses of CSF and blood plasma then indicated clusters of proteins involved in neurogenesis, neural development and neural differentiation overrepresented in CSF in each species. This study provides the first insight into the proteomics of adult avian CSF and plasma and brings novel evidence supporting the adult neurogenesis in birds.
Prediction of the histology of colorectal neoplasm in white light colonoscopic images using deep learning algorithms
Authors: Choi Seong Ji , Kim Eun Sun , Choi Kihwan
Published: March 2021

The treatment plan of colorectal neoplasm differs based on histology. Although new endoscopic imaging systems have been developed, there are clear diagnostic thresholds and requirements in using them. To overcome these limitations, we trained convolutional neural networks (CNNs) with endoscopic images and developed a computer-aided diagnostic (CAD) system which predicts the pathologic histology of colorectal adenoma. We retrospectively collected colonoscopic images from two tertiary hospitals and labeled 3400 images into one of 4 classes according to the final histology: normal, low-grade dysplasia, high-grade dysplasia, and adenocarcinoma. We implemented a CAD system based on ensemble learning with three CNN models which transfer the knowledge learned from common digital photography images to the colonoscopic image domain. The deep learning models were trained to classify the colorectal adenoma into these 4 classes. We compared the outcomes of the CNN models to those of two endoscopist groups having different years of experience, and visualized the model predictions using Class Activation Mapping. In our multi-center study, our CNN-CAD system identified the histology of colorectal adenoma with as sensitivity 77.25%, specificity of 92.42%, positive predictive value of 77.16%, negative predictive value of 92.58% averaged over the 4 classes, and mean diagnostic time of 0.12 s per image. Our experiments demonstrate that the CNN-CAD showed a similar performance to that of endoscopic experts and outperformed that of trainees. The model visualization results also showed reasonable regions of interest to explain the classification decisions of CAD systems. We suggest that CNN-CAD system can predict the histology of colorectal adenoma.
Design of micromagnetic arrays for on-chip separation of superparamagnetic bead aggregates and detection of a model protein and double-stranded DNA analytes
Authors: Rampini Stefano , Li Peng , Gandhi Dhruv , Mutas Marina , Ran Ying Fen , Carr Michael , Lee Gil U.
Published: March 2021

Magnetically actuated lab-on-a-chip (LOC) technologies have enabled rapid, highly efficient separation of specific biomarkers and cells from complex biological samples. Nonlinear magnetophoresis (NLM) is a technique that uses a microfabricated magnet array (MMA) and a time varying external magnetic field to precisely control the transport of superparamagnetic (SPM) beads on the surface of a chip based on their size and magnetization. We analyze the transport and separation behavior of SPM monomers and dimers on four MMA geometries, i.e., circular, triangular, square and rectangular shaped micromagnets, across a range of external magnetic field rotation frequencies. The measured critical frequency of the SPM beads on an MMA, i.e., the velocity for which the hydrodynamic drag on a bead exceeds the magnetic force, is closely related to the local magnetic flux density landscape on a micromagnet in the presence of an external magnetic field. A set of design criteria has been established for the optimization of MMAs for NLM separation, with particular focus on the shape of the micromagnets forming the array. The square MMA was used to detect a model protein biomarker and gene fragment based on a magnetic bead assembly (MBA) assay. This assay uses ligand functionalized SPM beads to capture and directly detect an analyte through the formation of SPM bead aggregates. These beads aggregates were detected through NLM separation and microscopic analysis resulting in a highly sensitive assay that did not use carrier fluid.
Tear film break-up patterns in thyroid eye disease
Authors: Takahashi Yasuhiro , Lee Patricia Ann L. , Vaidya Aric , Kono Shinjiro , Kakizaki Hirohiko
Published: March 2021

Evaluation of tear film break-up pattern (TFBUP) is the main diagnostic method for tear film-oriented therapy (TFOT) of dry eye. This prospective, observational study examined TFBUPs in 154 eyes/sides from 78 patients with thyroid eye disease (TED) who met the diagnostic criteria for dry eye in Japan. TFBUPs were classified as area, line, spot, dimple, and random breaks. Results for the status of TED and dry eye were compared between the TFBUPs. Consequently, line, spot, dimple, and random breaks were observed in 80 (51.9%), 29 (18.8%), 10 (6.5%), and 35 eyes (22.7%) while no eyes showed area breaks. The random break group had the highest incidence of lid lag/Graefe sign and superior limbic keratoconjunctivitis (SLK) (P < 0.050). Although the incidence of each TFBUP is almost equal in patients with simple dry eye without TED, line breaks were more frequently observed in TED. In addition, while random breaks in simple dry eye are usually only associated with minor ocular surface damages, those in TED were associated with a higher incidence of concomitant SLK. These results will be helpful for understanding the etiology of dry eye in TED and for TFOT in TED.
Single-cell differential splicing analysis reveals high heterogeneity of liver tumor-infiltrating T cells
Authors: Liu Shang , Zhou Biaofeng , Wu Liang , Sun Yan , Chen Jie , Liu Shiping
Published: March 2021

Recent advances in single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) have improved our understanding of the association between tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TILs) heterogeneity and cancer initiation and progression. However, studies investigating alternative splicing (AS) as an important regulatory factor of heterogeneity remain limited. Here, we developed a new computational tool, DESJ-detection, which accurately detects differentially expressed splicing junctions (DESJs) between cell groups at the single-cell level. We analyzed 5063 T cells of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and identified 1176 DESJs across 11 T cell subtypes. Interestingly, DESJs were enriched in UTRs, and have putative effects on heterogeneity. Cell subtypes with a similar function closely clustered together at the AS level. Meanwhile, we identified a novel cell state, pre-activation with the isoform markers ARHGAP15-205. In summary, we present a comprehensive investigation of alternative splicing differences, which provided novel insights into T cell heterogeneity and can be applied to other full-length scRNA-seq datasets.
Inhibitory effects of β-type glycosidic polysaccharide from Pleurotus eryngii on dextran sodium sulfate-induced colitis in mice
Authors: Ma Gaoxing , Hu Qiuhui , Han Yanhui , Du Hengjun , Yang Wenjian , Pan Che , Cao Xiaoqiong , Muinde Kimatu Benard , Pei Fei , Xiao Hang
Published: March 2021

The present study demonstrated the anti-inflammatory and gut microbiota regulatory effects of a Pleurotus eryngii polysaccharide as a functional natural component and a beneficial prebiotic candidate against IBD.
Effects of recombinant human gastric lipase and pancreatin duringin vitropediatric gastro-intestinal digestion
Authors: Heerup Christine , Ebbesen Morten Frendø , Geng Xiaolu , Madsen Sofie Falkenløve , Berthelsen Ragna , Müllertz Anette
Published: March 2021

In vitropediatric gastro-intestinal digestion with recombinant human gastric lipase and pancreatin reveals substrate dependency when quantified by both titration and HPLC-ELSD.
Access and modulation of substituted 1-methyl-1,6-dihydropyrazolo[3,4-c]pyrazoles
Authors: Ostache Nicu-Cosmin , Hiebel Marie-Aude , Fînaru Adriana-Luminiţa , Allouchi Hassan , Guillaumet Gérald , Suzenet Franck
Published: March 2021

A convenient design of pyrazolo[3,4-c]pyrazoles is reported through hydrazine condensations and C–N Ullmann-type cross-coupling reactions. Chemoselective bromination followed by Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling reactions access to a variety of modulated heterobicycles.
Consistent image processing based on co‐saliency
Authors: Ren Xiangnan , Li Jinjiang , Hua Zhen , Jiang Xinbo
Published: March 2021

In a group of images, the recurrent foreground objects are considered as the key objects in the group of images. In co‐saliency detection, these are described as common saliency objects. The aim is to be able to naturally guide the user's gaze to these common salient objects. By guiding the user's gaze, users can easily find these common saliency objects without interference from other information. Therefore, a method is proposed for reducing user visual attention based on co‐saliency detection. Through the co‐saliency detection algorithm and matting algorithm for image preprocessing, the exact position of non‐common saliency objects (called Region of Interest here, i.e. ROI) in the image group can be obtained. In the attention retargeting algorithm, the internal features of the image to adjust the saliency of the ROI areas are considered. In the HSI colour space, the three components H, S, and I are adjusted separately. First, the hue distribution is constructed by the Dirac kernel function, and then the most similar hue distribution to the surrounding environment is selected as the best hue distribution of ROI areas. The S and I components can be set as the contrast difference between ROI areas and surrounding background areas according to the user's demands. Experimental results show that this method effectively reduces the ROI areas' attraction to the user's visual attention. Moreover, comparing this method with other methods, the saliency adjustment effect achieved is much better, and the processed image is more natural.
Drone assisted device to device cooperative communication for critical environments
Authors: Kumar Pankaj , Darshi Sam , Shailendra Samar
Published: March 2021

This paper proposes drone assisted device‐to‐device cooperative communication (DA‐DDCC) for critical situations during post‐disaster management. The proposed network utilizes the autonomous mode of D2D communication for setting up the link in the absence of a central node. This network incorporates cooperative communication using drone in D2D session for improving reliability of the overall system. A probability‐based statistical channel model for such networks is proposed by taking the statistical independence of links into consideration. Unlike the existing air‐to‐ground (A2G) channel models that use either Rayleigh or Rician distribution for uplink (UL) and downlink (DL) channel modelling, our approach takes the probability of occurrence of line of sight (LoS) into account while predicting the appropriate channel distribution for UL and DL separately. For performance evaluation of the proposed network, average outage probability and average capacity are derived using the proposed channel model. Monte Carlo simulations are conducted to verify our analysis. Moreover, a multi‐cluster DA‐DDCC scenario is also being analyzed through simulations from an interference perspective to justify the usefulness of the proposed channel model. Results obtained through this investigation can be utilized in selecting various crucial system parameters judiciously for enhanced performance during post‐disaster scenario.
Influence of extended grading capacitor for suppressing secondary arc on the transient recovery voltage of multi‐break circuit breaker
Authors: Sun Qiuqin , Xiao Zhibin , Jiang Rong , Zhong Lipeng , Chen She
Published: March 2021

The extended grading capacitor (EGC) is a cost‐effective technique to suppress secondary arc. However, whether the use of EGC would weaken the interrupting capability of circuit breakers (CB) or not is still undetermined. In this work, an equivalent circuit model for ultra‐high voltage transmission line was established. The expressions of transient recovery voltage (TRV) across the contact gap of CB are derived, and hence the rate of rise of recovery voltage (RRRV). Then, a series of simulations have been performed, including the long‐line fault, the short‐line fault (SLF) and the terminal fault. It is found that the RRRV had approximately linear downward trend with the increase of the capacitance of EGC under long‐line fault but had approximately index downward trend under SLF. The SLF poses the strictest requirements to the CB. In addition to suppressing secondary arc current, the use of EGC would mitigate the interrupting severity and enhancing the interrupting performance of CB.
Segmentation of images through curve fitting analysis by modified Vandermonde matrix and modified Gram‐Schmidt method
Authors: Acharya Kuldip , Ghoshal Dibyendu , Bhattacharyya Bidyut K.
Published: March 2021

An algorithm is proposed for segmentation of digital images using the curve fitting method based on modified Vandermonde matrix and modified Gram‐Schmidt method. Modified Vandermonde matrix is applied to linearly smoothed histogram data to find the coefficients of a polynomial of a given degree for fitting the data in a least square sense. Modified Gram‐Schmidt method is applied to get polynomial coefficients to minimise the least square distance during the calculation. The threshold value is computed by locating the minimum number of pixels from the grey‐level value. Threshold value is used with that of the input image to generate an output segmented image. The output segmented image is further improved by applying morphological operation which has made the segmented edge lines and regions free from any extraneous pixels. The final segmented image has been found to have sharp edges and filled in a region within the image contours. The experimental results show that the proposed method has produced superior performance compared to other state‐of‐art algorithms. Further, it is observed from the results that the proposed algorithm takes less program execution time than others in vogue algorithms.
Empirical determination of atomic line parameters of the 1.5 μm spectral region
Authors: Trelles Arjona J. C. , Ruiz Cobo B. , Martínez González M. J.
Published: March 2021

Context. Both the quality and amount of astrophysical data are steadily increasing over time owing to the improvement of telescopes and their instruments. This requires corresponding evolution of the techniques used for obtaining and analyzing the resulting data. The infrared spectral range at 1.56 μm usually observed by the GRegor Infrared Spectrograph (GRIS) at the GREGOR solar telescope has a width of around 30 Å and includes at least 15 spectral lines. Normally, only a handful of spectral lines (five at most) are used in studies using GRIS because of the lack of atomic parameters for the others. Including more spectral lines may alleviate some of the known ambiguities between solar atmospheric parameters.

Aims. We used high-precision spectropolarimetric data for the quiet Sun at 1.56 μm observed with GRIS on the GREGOR along with the SIR inversion code in order to obtain accurate atomic parameters for 15 spectral lines in this spectral range.

Methods. We used inversion techniques to infer both solar atmospheric models and the atomic parameters of spectral lines which, under the local thermodynamic equilibrium approximation, reproduce spectropolarimetric observations.

Results. We present accurate atomic parameters for 15 spectral lines within the spectral range from 15 644 to 15 674 Å. This spectral range is commonly used in solar studies because it enables the study of the low photosphere. Moreover, the infrared spectral lines are better tracers of the magnetic fields than the optical ones.
Development Cooperation as a Knowledge Creation Process: Rhythmanalytical Approach to a Capacity-Building Project in Zanzibar
Authors: Ojala Minna-Liina , Hooli Lauri
Published: March 2021

In development cooperation, the ideas of material support and instructive teaching have increasingly given way to those of reciprocal collaboration and non-material support. In this research, we explore the potential of rhythmanalysis as an approach to studying complex knowledge creation processes in an international development cooperation project. The Zan-SDI project aimed to enhance the geospatial infrastructure in Zanzibar through cooperation between Finnish and Zanzibarian experts. Our rhythmanalysis shows that knowledge creation in the everyday practices of development cooperation is extremely vulnerable to various distractions on multiple spatio-temporal scales. Continuous learning and efforts are required to sustain the project ensemble and knowledge creation. Although new partnerships and inter-organisational collaboration are a source of novelty and innovation, much of their potential remains unrealised without intensive long-term engagement, possibilities to quickly reform the project scheme, and a sufficient combination of financial, material and non-material support.
Analytical study of MHD mixed convection flow for Maxwell nanofluid with variable thermal conductivity and Soret and Dufour effects
Authors: Jawad Muhammad , Saeed Anwar , Khan Arshad , Ali Ishtiaq , Alrabaiah Hussam , Gul Taza , Bonyah Ebenezer , Zubair Muhammad
Published: March 2021

The key purpose of this article is to discuss the magnetohydrodynamic mixed convection flow for a Maxwell nanofluid past a stretching and permeable sheet. Variable thermal conductivity and Dufour and Soret effects are also taken into consideration. The modeled equations are transformed into a set of non-linear ordinary differential equations by employing similar transformable variables. The renovated system of equations is interpreted by Homotopy Analysis Method (HAM). The results determined by HAM have been compared with numerical solutions, and a good agreement has been noticed in both solutions. The main outcomes of this investigation are that velocity slows down with augmentation in Maxwell and magnetic parameters, temperature increases with radiation and thermophoretic parameters and reduces with growing values of Prandtl number and Brownian motion parameters, and furthermore, the motile micro-organism is a dropping function of Peclect and bio-convection Lewis numbers and bio-convection concentration difference parameters.