bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Admittance‐inverter‐based two‐section filtering power divider with OVER 40‐dB output isolation
Authors: Shen Guangxu , Che Wenquan
Published: August 2021

An admittance‐inverter‐based two‐section topology is proposed for filtering power dividers in this article aiming at high and wideband output isolation. Different from the classic two‐section Wilkinson power dividers, the bulky quarter‐wave transmission lines are removed and replaced by using two pairs of admittance inverters, which are realized by the input external quality factor (Qe‐in) and coupling coefficient (k12), respectively. Since the electric size of these coupling effects (Qe‐in and k12) are negligible, a significant size reduction is easily realized. In addition, two isolation elements are added between the input resonators and the output ones, respectively. Two‐prefect absorption points are accordingly realized in |S23|, indicating wider and higher output isolation compared with the reported designs using one isolation element. For demonstration, one two‐section filtering power divider is designed and fabricated. The circuit size is only 0.009λg2, while the output isolation exceeds 41.5 dB over the passband.
Lower urinary tract symptoms are associated with musculoskeletal pain among older men: Preliminary evidence for central sensitization as a mechanism?
Authors: Senders Angela , Bauer Scott R , Chen Yiyi , Oken Barry , Fink Howard A , Lane Nancy E , Sajadi Kamran P , Marshall Lynn M , for the Osteoporotic Fractures in Men (MrOS) Study Group
Published: August 2021

Aims

Features of central sensitization (CS) are present in almost all chronic pain conditions, including painful urinary conditions and back pain. Recently CS was proposed as a mechanism of nonpainful lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Using musculoskeletal pain as an indicator of CS, we investigated whether the prevalence of musculoskeletal pain is greater among community‐dwelling men with moderate or severe LUTS compared to those with mild LUTS.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study of 5966 men ≥65 years who attended the Osteoporotic Fractures in Men Study baseline visit. LUTS were assessed with the American Urological Association Symptom Index (AUA‐SI) and categorized as none/mild (0–7), moderate (8–19), or severe (≥20). Self‐reported back, neck, hip, or knee pain within the 12 months before baseline was categorized as any pain and multilocation pain. We tested our hypothesis using odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) estimated from multivariable logistic regression models.

Results

The adjusted odds of any pain were higher among men with moderate (OR 1.49, 95% CI: 1.29–1.72) and severe LUTS (OR 1.76, 95% CI: 1.28–2.40) compared to those with no/mild LUTS. The adjusted odds of pain at ≥ 2 locations were 69% higher among men with moderate (OR 1.69, 95% CI: 1.45–196) and more than double among men with severe LUTS (OR 2.24, 95% CI: 1.62–3.10) compared to men with no/mild LUTS.

Conclusions

Musculoskeletal pain, especially at multiple locations, is associated with greater LUTS severity among older men. CS may represent a novel shared mechanism of pain and LUTS.
Support anti‐racism measures by catalyzing change, sharing best practices
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: August 2021

Lisa García Bedolla, Ph.D., Vice Provost for Graduate Studies and Dean of the Graduate Division at the University of California, Berkeley, first came to Berkeley as an undergraduate student. The daughter of Cuban refugees, García Bedolla said she grew up with a different conception of the role of higher education than her peers.
Outcomes of Pregnancy During Immunotherapy Treatment for Cancer: Analysis of Clinical Trials Sponsored by the National Cancer Institute
Authors: Mittra Arjun , Naqash Abdul Rafeh , Murray James H. , Finnigan Shanda , Kwak-Kim Joanne , Ivy S. Percy , Chen Alice P. , Sharon Elad
Published: August 2021

Despite expanding indications for immunotherapeutic agents, there is limited understanding about their clinical effects on pregnancy outcomes. Generally, pregnant patients with cancer are excluded from clinical trials, and inadvertent pregnancies on trial result in patients being taken off because of concerns for fetal toxicity. To answer this question of pregnancy outcomes on immunotherapy-based trials, we performed a retrospective analysis of the National Cancer Institute (NCI) Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (CTEP)-Adverse Event Reporting System for unexpected pregnancies during NCI-CTEP–sponsored immunotherapy clinical trials between 2011 and 2020. We identified nine female patients who had unexpected pregnancies, of whom seven chose to take their pregnancies to term. All seven pregnancies resulted in vaginal births of apparently normal infants. This is the first report of pregnancy outcomes in multiple female patients exposed to immunotherapy. Our data suggest the need for further research to better evaluate and define contraception recommendations during immunotherapy treatment for cancer.
Results with Floxuridine, Actinomycin D, Etoposide, and Vincristine in Gestational Trophoblastic Neoplasias with International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics Scores ≥5
Authors: Li Yuan , Kong Yujia , Wan Xirun , Feng Fengzhi , Ren Tong , Zhao Jun , Yang Junjun , Xiang Yang
Published: August 2021

Background

5-fluorouracil-based multiagent chemotherapy has been used as the primary treatment for high-risk gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) in China for a few decades. This study aims to assess the efficacy and toxicity of floxuridine, actinomycin D, etoposide, and vincristine (FAEV) as a primary treatment for patients with GTN who had International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) scores ≥5.

Materials and Methods

A total of 207 patients with GTN who had FIGO scores ≥5 were treated with FAEV as first-line chemotherapy at Peking Union Medical College Hospital between January 2002 and December 2017. Complete remission (CR), resistance, survival, toxicity, and reproductive outcomes were analyzed.

Results

Of the 207 patients treated with FAEV, 9 (4.3%) required a change of chemotherapy owing to toxicity and 1 (0.5%) died of cerebral hernia 5 weeks after commencing treatment. The remaining 197 patients were assessable to determine the response to FAEV; among them, 168 (85.3%) achieved CR with FAEV and 29 (14.7%) developed resistance to FAEV. The 5-year overall survival rate of the entire cohort was 97.4%. Grade 3–4 neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, and anemia occurred in 28.4%, 6.8%, and 6.2% of cycles, respectively. No acute toxicity-related deaths occurred. Five patients developed acute myeloid leukemia 10–50 months after exposure to chemotherapy; another patient developed duodenal cancer 2 years after completing therapy. Sixty-one patients who preserved fertility wanted to become pregnant; 56 of them conceived.

Conclusion

The FAEV regimen is an effective primary treatment for patients with GTN who have FIGO scores ≥5 and has predictable and manageable toxicity.

Implications for Practice

The most commonly used multiagent chemotherapy for high-risk gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) is etoposide, methotrexate and actinomycin D/cyclophosphamide and vincristine (EMA/CO) worldwide. However, 5-fluorouracil-based multiagent chemotherapy has been used as a primary treatment for high-risk GTN in China for a few decades. This study evaluated the efficacy and toxicity of floxuridine, actinomycin D, etoposide, and vincristine (FAEV) as a primary treatment for patients with GTN who have International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) scores ≥5. The study's data demonstrated that FAEV as a primary treatment achieved favorable outcomes for patients with FIGO scores ≥5. Toxicities that result from the FAEV regimen are predictable and manageable. The FAEV regimen may provide another option for the treatment of GTN.
New trends in nanofibers functionalization and recent applications in wastewater treatment
Authors: Zamel Doaa , Khan Atta Ullah
Published: August 2021

Recently, nanofibers got great attention towards industry due to their unique properties, which make them convenient for many applications. Nanostructured materials were reported as the most significant materials because of their large surface area, porosity, and cost‐effectiveness. There are various methods to prepare nanofibers; however, the most effective technique is electrospinning, which is widely used nowadays. Depending on composite materials for nanofibers, preparation is a good advantage for expanding the fiber's mechanical and thermal properties. Recent researches focused on bicomponent and tricomponent materials for nanofibers preparation among these materials were polymers regarding their high molecular weight and ability to be spun with good mechanical strength fibers. Furthermore, the functionalization of nanofibers furnishes them with new characteristics and that enriches their capability for different applications. Functionalization can be performed by nanoparticles or microorganisms, which are recently reported. The combination of other materials with nanofibers increases their applicability characteristics and let them suitable for different disciplines. Currently, nanofibers gained a lot of trust from researchers and industry men to depend on inside many factories for wastewater treatment as they proved their excellent efficiency in pollutants removal at low cost. This review discusses the possible ways of nanofibers preparation, functionalization, and possible applications in wastewater treatment and highlights the importance of functionalization of these nanofibers to be more convenient in wastewater treatment applications.
Diagnostic testing after positive results on cell free DNA screening: CVS or Amnio?
Authors: Mardy Anne H , Norton Mary E.
Published: August 2021

Objective

The positive predictive values of cell free DNA (cfDNA) and rates of confined placental mosaicism (CPM), imprinting and other factors vary by chromosome.

Methods

We sought to review the literature for each of these features for each chromosome and provide recommendations on chorionic villus sampling (CVS) versus amniocentesis after an abnormal cfDNA result.

Results

For chromosomes with high rates of CPM (trisomy 13, monosomy X and rare autosomal trisomies [RATs]), an amniocentesis should be considered if the first trimester ultrasound is normal. For monosomy X on cfDNA with an unaffected fetus, maternal karyotyping should be considered after normal fetal diagnostic testing. In cfDNA cases with a trisomy involving a chromosome with imprinted genes (6, 7, 11, 14, 15 and 20), CVS should be considered, followed by amniocentesis if abnormal. If the fetus is unaffected, methylation studies should be considered given the risk of uniparental disomy. A third trimester growth ultrasound should be considered for patients with a positive cfDNA screen for a RAT and an unaffected fetus, especially in the case of trisomy 16. For patients with multiple aneuploidy results on cfDNA, a work‐up for maternal malignancy should be considered.

Conclusions

Clinicians should consider rates of CPM, imprinting, ultrasound findings and maternal factors when considering whether to recommend amniocentesis or CVS after an abnormal cfDNA result.
Comparison of the anticancer effects between helium plasma jets and electrochemical treatment (EChT)
Authors: Liu Dingxin , Wang Zifeng , Chen Zeyu , Xu Dehui , Chen Min , Chen Jinkun , Zhu Mengying , Zhang Hao , Wang Xiaohua , Kong Michael G. , Rong Mingzhe
Published: August 2021

Cold atmospheric plasma, a promising technology for cancer therapy, can simultaneously induce electrochemistry, which has been widely demonstrated to be effective against cancer. Herein, the anticancer effects of direct current plasma jets and electrochemical circuit are comparatively studied with similar topological structures and average currents. The cell inactivation patterns formed by plasma and electrochemical treatment (EChT) are disparate, and the inactivation is mainly caused by the emission of charged species, helium flow, in situ OH radical production, or local alkalization. The culture medium treated by EChT exerted no sustained anticancer effect, whereas the medium treated by plasma could maintain a strong effect due to the production of more reactive species, suggesting that the electrochemistry does not dominate the plasma inactivation of cancer cells.
Inadequacies in the SES–Achievement model: Evidence from PISA and other studies
Authors: Marks Gary N. , O'Connell Michael
Published: August 2021

Students’ socioeconomic status (SES) is central to much research and policy deliberation on educational inequalities. However, the SES model is under severe stress for several reasons. SES is an ill‐defined concept, unlike parental education or family income. SES measures are frequently based on proxy reports from students; these are generally unreliable, sometimes endogenous to student achievement, only low to moderately intercorrelated, and exhibit low comparability across countries and over time. There are many explanations for SES inequalities in education, none of which achieves consensus among research and policy communities. SES has only moderate effects on student achievement, and its effects are especially weak when considering prior achievement, an important and relevant predictor. SES effects are substantially reduced when considering parent ability, which is causally prior to family SES. The alternative cognitive ability/genetic transmission model has far greater explanatory power; it provides logical and compelling explanations for a wide range of empirical findings from student achievement studies. The inadequacies of the SES model are hindering knowledge accumulation about student performance and the development of successful policies.

Context and implications

Rationale for this study

This review was written in response to the disconnect between the literature surrounding student achievement studies, and the cognitive psychology and behavioural genetic academic literatures. It is well‐established that student achievement is closely related to cognitive ability and both have sizable genetic components, findings largely ignored in achievement studies. This review’s aim is for more considered responses to socioeconomic inequalities in student achievement by both researchers and policymakers.

Why the new findings matter

The review provides overwhelming evidence that much of the current thinking about SES and student achievement is mistaken.

Implications for researchers and policymakers

The current emphasis on SES is misleading and wastes considerable human and financial resources that could much better be utilized. The focus should be on student performance ensuring that low achievers have rewarding educational and occupational careers, and raising the overall skill levels of students, not on the nebulous, difficult to measure, concept of SES, which is only moderately associated with achievement.
Mechanical Stimulation after Centrifuge‐Free Nano‐Electroporative Transfection Is Efficient and Maintains Long‐Term T Cell Functionalities
Authors: Tay Andy , Melosh Nicholas
Published: August 2021

Transfection is an essential step in genetic engineering and cell therapies. While a number of non‐viral micro‐ and nano‐technologies have been developed to deliver DNA plasmids into the cell cytoplasm, one of the most challenging and least efficient steps is DNA transport to and expression in the nucleus. Here, the magnetic nano‐electro‐injection (MagNEI) platform is described which makes use of oscillatory mechanical stimulation after cytoplasmic delivery with high aspect‐ratio nano‐structures to achieve stable (>2 weeks) net transfection efficiency (efficiency × viability) of 50% in primary human T cells. This is, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, the highest net efficiency reported for primary T cells using a centrifuge‐free, non‐viral transfection method, in the absence of cell selection, and with a clinically relevant cargo size (>12 kbp). Wireless mechanical stimulation downregulates the expression of microtubule motor protein gene, KIF2A, which increases local DNA concentration near the nuclei, resulting in enhanced DNA transfection. Magnetic forces also accelerate membrane repair by promoting actin cytoskeletal remodeling which preserves key biological attributes including cell proliferation and gene expressions. These results demonstrate MagNEI as a powerful non‐viral transfection technique for progress toward fully closed, end‐to‐end T cell manufacturing with less human labor, lower production cost, and shorter delay.
Intercalation Strategy in 2D Materials for Electronics and Optoelectronics
Authors: Li Zexin , Li Dongyan , Wang Haoyun , Chen Ping , Pi Lejing , Zhou Xing , Zhai Tianyou
Published: August 2021

Intercalation is an effective approach to tune the physical and chemical properties of 2D materials due to their abundant van der Waals gaps that can host high‐density intercalated guest matters. This approach has been widely employed to modulate the optical, electrical, and photoelectrical properties of 2D materials for their applications in electronic and optoelectronic devices. Thus it is necessary to review the recent progress of the intercalation strategy in 2D materials and their applications in devices. Herein, various intercalation strategies and the novel properties of the intercalated 2D materials as well as their applications in electronics and optoelectronics are summarized. In the end, the development tendency of this promising approach for 2D materials is also outlined.
A systems‐engineering approach to nation‐scale problems: Municipal solid waste management in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Midgley W. J. B. , Henshaw M. J. de C. , Alshuhri S.
Published: August 2021

The systems‐engineering context of the solid waste disposal problem is discussed with a focus on the issues in Saudi Arabia. A methodology was developed for dividing the system of interest into a set of weakly‐coupled sub‐systems that interact with the narrow system of interest. A model of the narrow system of interest, in this case the municipal solid waste (MSW) system of Saudi Arabia, was then created and validated. The development of this mathematical model is described and is used to investigate a range of scenarios for the future of Saudi Arabia's MSW system with a time horizon of 30 years. The most effective method uses anaerobic digestion, incineration and recycling to reduce the total mass to landfill over the 30 years by 73% when compared to the default scenario (no action taken). In the final year of the simulation, this method reduces the total annual mass to landfill by 69% when compared to a reasonable source reduction strategy. The energy generated by incineration, is shown to contribute a maximum of 2.3% to the Kingdom's annual energy production. Lifecycle analysis shows that the best waste management method produces a DALY (disability life year) score which is 2% of the current strategy, even if moderate source reduction is employed. The two newly suggested scenarios are shown to have a net positive impact on the environment due to the recycling of a large part of the waste stream, preventing acidification/eutrophication due to the manufacture of virgin goods.
Design of a Swing Operation Assist Controller with a Local Feedback Compensator for a Hydraulic Excavator
Authors: Morota Yuma , Kozui Masatoshi , Yamamoto Toru , Koiwai Kazushige , Yamashita Koji
Published: August 2021

Increasing the productivity of workers is a challenge faced at construction sites. In a previous study, a scheme was proposed to support the swing operation of a hydraulic excavator by using a local feedback compensator to improve productivity. However, the gain of the compensator was set uniformly. In this paper, a control system is proposed that learns the gain of the compensator based on a database‐driven approach. Furthermore, a different reference output is set for each operator, and the dynamic characteristics of the augmented system are changed according to the operation characteristics of each operator. © 2021 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Integrable bootstrap for AdS3/CFT2 correlation functions
Authors: Eden Burkhard , le Plat Dennis , Sfondrini Alessandro
Published: August 2021

Abstract

We propose an integrable bootstrap framework for the computation of correlation functions for superstrings in AdS3 × S3 × T4 backgrounds supported by an arbitrary mixture or Ramond-Ramond and Neveu-Schwarz-Neveu-Schwarz fluxes. The framework extends the “hexagon tessellation” approach which was originally proposed for AdS5 × S5 and for the first time it demonstrates its applicability to other (less supersymmetric) setups. We work out the hexagon form factor for two-particle states, including its dressing factors which follow from those of the spectral problem, and we show that it satisfies non-trivial consistency conditions. We propose a bootstrap principle, slightly different from that of AdS5 × S5, which allows to extend the form factor to arbitrarily many particles. Finally, we compare its predictions with some correlation functions of protected operators. Possible applications of this construction include the study of wrapping corrections, of higher-point correlation functions, and of non-planar corrections.
Infinite-dimensional fermionic symmetry in supersymmetric gauge theories
Authors: Dumitrescu Thomas T. , He Temple , Mitra Prahar , Strominger Andrew
Published: August 2021

Abstract

We establish the existence of an infinite-dimensional fermionic symmetry in four-dimensional supersymmetric gauge theories by analyzing semiclassical photino dynamics in abelian $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 theories with charged matter. The symmetry is parametrized by a spinor-valued function on an asymptotic S2 at null infinity. It is not manifest at the level of the Lagrangian, but acts non-trivially on physical states, and its Ward identity is the soft photino theorem. The infinite-dimensional fermionic symmetry resides in the same $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 supermultiplet as the physically non-trivial large gauge symmetries associated with the soft photon theorem.
Targeted inhibition of eIF4A suppresses B-cell receptor-induced translation and expression of MYC and MCL1 in chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells
Authors: Wilmore Sarah , Rogers-Broadway Karly-Rai , Taylor Joe , Lemm Elizabeth , Fell Rachel , Stevenson Freda K. , Forconi Francesco , Steele Andrew J. , Coldwell Mark , Packham Graham , Yeomans Alison
Published: August 2021

Signaling via the B-cell receptor (BCR) is a key driver and therapeutic target in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). BCR stimulation of CLL cells induces expression of eIF4A, an initiation factor important for translation of multiple oncoproteins, and reduces expression of PDCD4, a natural inhibitor of eIF4A, suggesting that eIF4A may be a critical nexus controlling protein expression downstream of the BCR in these cells. We, therefore, investigated the effect of eIF4A inhibitors (eIF4Ai) on BCR-induced responses. We demonstrated that eIF4Ai (silvestrol and rocaglamide A) reduced anti-IgM-induced global mRNA translation in CLL cells and also inhibited accumulation of MYC and MCL1, key drivers of proliferation and survival, respectively, without effects on upstream signaling responses (ERK1/2 and AKT phosphorylation). Analysis of normal naïve and non-switched memory B cells, likely counterparts of the two main subsets of CLL, demonstrated that basal RNA translation was higher in memory B cells, but was similarly increased and susceptible to eIF4Ai-mediated inhibition in both. We probed the fate of MYC mRNA in eIF4Ai-treated CLL cells and found that eIF4Ai caused a profound accumulation of MYC mRNA in anti-IgM treated cells. This was mediated by MYC mRNA stabilization and was not observed for MCL1 mRNA. Following drug wash-out, MYC mRNA levels declined but without substantial MYC protein accumulation, indicating that stabilized MYC mRNA remained blocked from translation. In conclusion, BCR-induced regulation of eIF4A may be a critical signal-dependent nexus for therapeutic attack in CLL and other B-cell malignancies, especially those dependent on MYC and/or MCL1.
Molekulare Diagnostik und Therapie der Epidermolysis bullosa
Authors: Prodinger C. , Klausegger A. , Bauer J. W. , Laimer M.
Published: August 2021

Unter Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) subsumiert man genetische Erkrankungen, die durch gesteigerte Hautfragilität mit Blasenbildung nach bereits geringen mechanischen Belastungen gekennzeichnet sind. Hochvariable kutane, extrakutane und Organmanifestationen verursachen eine signifikante Morbidität und Mortalität sowie eine hohe Krankheitslast für Betroffene und Angehörige. Obwohl derzeit nicht heilbar, eröffnen Fortschritte in der molekularen Charakterisierung pathogenetischer Prozesse, in den diagnostischen Techniken und molekularen Therapieansätzen neue Perspektiven. Neben korrektiven, potenziell kurativen Behandlungszugängen mit dem Ziel der Wiederherstellung der Funktion von Gen bzw. Protein stellen krankheitsmodifizierende Strategien eine wertvolle Ergänzung dar. Unter Letztere fallen symptomatische Therapien, die sekundär dysregulierte, den Phänotyp modulierende Entzündungskaskaden adressieren oder zielgerichtete Interventionen hinsichtlich bestimmter Symptome wie Fibrosierung, Juckreiz oder kanzerogener Zelltransformation. Molekulare Verfahren erlauben heute zudem, eine Diagnose und damit Prognose früher und präziser zu stellen, was die genetische Beratung erleichtert.

Das Management von EB-Patienten ist komplex und bedarf einer Spezialexpertise und multidisziplinär akkordierten Versorgung. Entsprechende Ressourcen halten designierte Expertisezentren wie das EB-Haus Austria vor, das als Mitglied des Europäischen Referenznetzwerks für Seltene Hauterkrankungen (ERN Skin) sowohl klinische Versorgung, Grundlagen- und klinische Forschungsaktivitäten sowie Zugang zu Aus- und Weiterbildungsprogrammen für Betroffene, Betreuende und medizinisches Fachpersonal gewährleistet.
How does AirBnb affect local Spanish tourism markets?
Authors: Jiménez Juan Luis , Ortuño Armando , Pérez-Rodríguez Jorge V.
Published: August 2021

This paper analyses the effects of AirBnb on the size of local tourism markets using AirBnb occupancy rates and hotel overnight stays in order to explore the causal relationship in several Spanish cities. A dynamic panel data model is applied at the city level (2014–2017). Our findings show a positive relationship between the increase in the number of properties offered on AirBnb and the implicit volume of tourists received by each city, specifically in two large cities (Madrid and Barcelona), due to higher AirBnb occupancy rate.
Contrasting gut microbiota in captive Eurasian otters (Lutra lutra) by age
Authors: Okamoto Yumiko , Ichinohe Natsumi , Woo Cheolwoon , Han Sung-Yong , Kim Hyeong-Hoo , Ito Sakura , Nakamura Chiho , Kumura Junpei , Nagaoka Kentaro , Yamamoto Naomichi
Published: August 2021

Understanding the gut microbiota characteristics of endangered species such as the Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra), especially in their early stages of life, could be essential for improving their management and ex situ conservation strategies. Here, we analyzed the gut microbiota diversity, composition, and function of captive Eurasian otters at different ages using high-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing. We found that: (1) Clostridiaceae was abundant in all age stages; (2)Lactococcusin cubs is thought to predominate for digesting milk; (3) bacteria associated with amino acid metabolism increase with age, while bacteria associated with carbohydrate metabolism decrease with age, which is likely due to decrease in dietary carbohydrate content (e.g., milk) and increase in dietary protein contents (e.g., fishes) with age; and (4) fish-related bacteria were detected in feces of healthy adults and juveniles. Overall, the gut microbiota of captive Eurasian otters was taxonomically and functionally different by age, which is thought to be attributed to the difference in the diet in their life stages. This study provided baseline information regarding the gut microbiota of Eurasian otters for the first time and contributes to improvement in their management in captivity.
Alkylation of rabbit muscle creatine kinase surface methionine residues inhibits enzyme activity in vitro
Authors: Steinritz Dirk , Lüling Robin , Siegert Markus , Mückter Harald , Popp Tanja , Reinemer Peter , Gudermann Thomas , Thiermann Horst , John Harald
Published: August 2021

Creatine kinase (CK) catalyzes the formation of phosphocreatine from adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and creatine. The highly reactive free cysteine residue in the active site of the enzyme (Cys283) is considered essential for the enzymatic activity. In previous studies we demonstrated that Cys283 is targeted by the alkylating chemical warfare agent sulfur mustard (SM) yielding a thioether with a hydroxyethylthioethyl (HETE)-moiety. In the present study, the effect of SM on rabbit muscle CK (rmCK) activity was investigated with special focus on the alkylation of Cys283 and of reactive methionine (Met) residues. For investigation of SM-alkylated amino acids in rmCK, micro liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization high-resolution tandem-mass spectrometry measurements were performed using the Orbitrap technology. The treatment of rmCK with SM resulted in a decrease of enzyme activity. However, this decrease did only weakly correlate to the modification of Cys283 but was conclusive for the formation of Met70-HETE and Met179-HETE. In contrast, the activity of mutants of rmCK produced by side-directed mutagenesis that contained substitutions of the respective Met residues (Met70Ala, Met179Leu, and Met70Ala/Met179Leu) was highly resistant against SM. Our results point to a critical role of the surface exposed Met70 and Met179 residues for CK activity.
Bone tissue preservation in seawater environment: a preliminary comparative analysis of bones with different post-mortem histories through anthropological and radiological perspectives
Authors: Bertoglio Barbara , Messina Carmelo , Cappella Annalisa , Maderna Emanuela , Mazzarelli Debora , Lucheschi Stanilla , Sardanelli Francesco , Sconfienza Luca Maria , Sforza Chiarella , Cattaneo Cristina
Published: August 2021

Bone taphonomy is a widely investigated topic; however, few data are available concerning marine bone taphonomy, especially on remains recovered from great depths and with short post-mortem intervals. To date, few studies have evaluated the bony changes which occur in seawater compared to samples with different post-mortem histories, and none through a comparative analysis of different approaches. To this purpose, this pilot study aims to examine the influence of seawater on bone preservation compared to other depositional contexts by multiple perspectives. Forty-nine human bone samples (femurs or tibiae) recovered from different environments (sea water, fresh water, outdoor, burial in coffin) were compared by macroscopic, microscopic and bone densitometric approaches. In order to investigate organic and inorganic components, undecalcified and decalcified histology of thin sections was performed. The analyses revealed a well-preserved bone tissue both macroscopically (92%) and microscopically (97% and 95% for undecalcified and decalcified sections). No significant differences were detected from radiological densitometric investigations (BMD = 1.6 g/cm2 ± 0.1), except between old and young individuals (p value < 0.001). Differences were observed for body decomposition and few scavenged samples (3/15). However, even if slight variations were observed, no relation was recorded with the depositional contexts. We found a similar bone preservation in the four environments at the time of recovery, both macroscopically and microscopically, but also with radiological densitometric investigations. Our observations enriched the literature on bone taphonomy, providing data on bone tissue preservation in the early post-mortem period from a multidisciplinary perspective, paving the way for further studies on the topic.
Electric signal synchronization as a behavioural strategy to generate social attention in small groups of mormyrid weakly electric fish and a mobile fish robot
Authors: Worm Martin , Landgraf Tim , von der Emde Gerhard
Published: August 2021

African weakly electric fish communicate at night by constantly emitting and perceiving brief electrical signals (electric organ discharges, EOD) at variable inter-discharge intervals (IDI). While the waveform of single EODs contains information about the sender’s identity, the variable IDI patterns convey information about its current motivational and behavioural state. Pairs of fish can synchronize their EODs to each other via echo responses, and we have previously formulated a ‘social attention hypothesis’ stating that fish use echo responses to address specific individuals and establish brief dyadic communication frameworks within a group. Here, we employed a mobile fish robot to investigate the behaviour of small groups of up to four Mormyrus rume and characterized the social situations during which synchronizations occurred. An EOD-emitting robot reliably evoked social following behaviour, which was strongest in smaller groups and declined with increasing group size. We did not find significant differences in motor behaviour of M. rume with either an interactive playback (echo response) or a random control playback by the robot. Still, the robot reliably elicited mutual synchronizations with other fish. Synchronizations mostly occurred during relatively close social interactions, usually when the fish that initiated synchronization approached either the robot or another fish from a distance. The results support our social attention hypothesis and suggest that electric signal synchronization might facilitate the exchange of social information during a wide range of social behaviours from aggressive territorial displays to shoaling and even cooperative hunting in some mormyrids.
Oncoplastic breast surgery combining partial mastectomy with resection of double equilateral triangular skin flaps
Authors: Kijima Yuko , Hirata Munetsugu , Higo Naotomo , Toda Hiroko , Shinden Yoshiaki
Published: August 2021

The treatment of early breast cancer using oncoplastic breast surgery (OBS) has been gradually increasing in popularity and is recognized for its efficacy in local control and excellent cosmetic results. We herein report a useful technique for obtaining symmetry of the breast shape for an early breast lesion located in an outer area, close to the nipple-areola, in a Japanese patient with ptotic, fatty breasts. We designed two equilateral triangles: one just upon the resected area and the other on the axilla. They were located on a straight line, with one top pointed to the cranial side and one to the caudal side. A crescent area around the areola was de-epithelialized in the 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock directions. Columnar-shaped breast tissue and an equilateral triangular skin flap and fatty tissue were removed together. To fill the defect, a skin-glandular flap was slid horizontally after suturing the inframammary line. Although an incision scar was formed on the breast and lateral chest wall in a Z-shape, this new technique was able to achieve not only cancer control but also excellent cosmetic results.
Automatic generation of atomic multiplicity-preserving search operators for search-based model engineering
Authors: Burdusel Alexandru , Zschaler Steffen , John Stefan
Published: August 2021

Recently, there has been increased interest in combining model-driven engineering and search-based software engineering. Such approaches use meta-heuristic search guided by search operators (model mutators and sometimes breeders) implemented as model transformations. The design of these operators can substantially impact the effectiveness and efficiency of the meta-heuristic search. Currently, designing search operators is left to the person specifying the optimisation problem. However, developing consistent and efficient search-operator rules requires not only domain expertise but also in-depth knowledge about optimisation, which makes the use of model-based meta-heuristic search challenging and expensive. In this paper, we propose a generalised approach to automatically generate atomic multiplicity-preserving search operators for a given optimisation problem. This reduces the effort required to specify an optimisation problem and shields optimisation users from the complexity of implementing efficient meta-heuristic search mutation operators. We evaluate our approach with a set of case studies and show that the automatically generated rules are comparable to, and in some cases better than, manually created rules at guiding evolutionary search towards near-optimal solutions.
Climate change impacts on rainfed maize yields in Zambia under conventional and optimized crop management
Authors: Siatwiinda Siatwiinda M. , Supit Iwan , van Hove Bert , Yerokun Olusegun , Ros Gerard H. , de Vries Wim
Published: August 2021

Maize production in Zambia is characterized by significant yield gaps attributed to nutrient management and climate change threatens to widen these gaps unless agronomic management is optimized. Insights in the impacts of climate change on maize yields and the potential to mitigate negative impacts by crop management are currently lacking for Zambia. Using five Global Circulation models and the WOFOST crop model, we assessed climate change impacts on maize yields at a 0.5° × 0.5° spatial resolution for RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 scenarios. Impacts were assessed for the near future (2035-2066) and far future (2065-2096) in comparison with a reference period (1971-2001). The surface temperature and warm days (above 30 °C) are projected to increase strongly in the southern and western regions. Precipitation is expected to decline, except in the northern regions, whereas the number of wet days declines everywhere, shortening the growing season. The risk of crop failure in western and southern regions increases due to dry spells and heat stress, while crops in the northern regions will be threatened by flooding or waterlogging due to heavy precipitation. The simulated decline in the water-limited and water- and nutrient-limited maize yields varied from 15 to 20% in the near future and from 20 to 40% in the far future, mainly due to the expected temperature increases. Optimizing management by adjusting planting dates and maize variety selection can counteract these impacts by 6-29%. The existing gaps between water-limited and nutrient-limited maize yields are substantially larger than the expected yield decline due to climate change. Improved nutrient management is therefore crucial to boost maize production in Zambia.
Cyanobacterial growth and cyanophycin production with urea and ammonium as nitrogen source
Authors: Canizales S. , Sliwszcinka M. , Russo A. , Bentvelzen S. , Temmink H. , Verschoor A. M. , Wijffels R. H. , Janssen M.
Published: August 2021

Several technologies have aimed to recover nitrogen directly from urine. Nitrogen recovery in these technologies was limited by the mismatch of the nitrogen-phosphorus molar ratio (N:P) of urine, being 30–46:1, and that of the final product, e.g., 1:1 in struvite and 16–22:1 in microalgae biomass. Additionally, the high nitrogen concentrations found in urine can be inhibitive for growth of microorganisms. Cyanobacteria were expected to overcome phosphorus (P) limitation in urine given their ability to store an N-rich polymer called cyanophycin. In this study, it was found that the model cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC6803 did not experience significant growth inhibition when cultivated in synthetic medium with concentrations of 0.5 g ammonium-N L−1. In the case of urea, no inhibition was observed when having it as sole nitrogen source, but it resulted in chlorosis of the cultures when the process reached stationary phase. Synechocystis was successfully cultivated in a medium with 0.5 g ammonium-N L−1 and a N:P ratio of 276:1, showing the N:P flexibility of this biomass, reaching biomass N:P ratios up to 92:1. Phosphorus starvation resulted in cyanophycin accumulation up to 4%. Dilution of the culture in fresh medium with the addition of 118 mg N L−1 and 1.5 mg P L−1 (N:P of 174:1) resulted in a rapid and transient cyanophycin accumulation up to 11%, after which cyanophycin levels rapidly decreased to 3%.
Effects of Employee Sickness Presence on Customer Repurchase and Recommendation Intentions: The Role of Customer Affective Reactions
Authors: Dietz Carolin , Zacher Hannes
Published: August 2021

Sickness presence can have important individual and organizational consequences, such as health deterioration or productivity loss. Additional risks, such as negative customer reactions, may be particularly relevant in the service sector. Based on affective events theory and appraisal theories, we hypothesize that employee sickness presence negatively impacts customer repurchase and recommendation intentions. Furthermore, we explore potential affective mechanisms of these effects, including disease avoidance, personal anger, moral outrage, post-consumption guilt, and customer compassion for the employee. We conducted four studies, including three experimental vignette methodology studies (Ns = 227, 72, and 763) and a qualitative study (N = 54). In Study 1, employee sickness presence had negative effects on repurchase and recommendation intentions. Results of Study 2 show that customers experienced disgust, fear, anger, guilt, compassion, and indifference in response to sickness presence. In Study 3, anger explained the negative effects of employee sickness presence on repurchase and recommendation intentions, while appraisals of moral fairness were negatively related to both customer intentions. Finally, in Study 4, disgust and anger explained negative effects, while fear, guilt, and compassion explained positive effects of employee sickness presence on customer intentions. Appraisals of goal incongruence, reduced agency of the customer, and uncertainty were negatively related to customer intentions. The physical absence of the customer in the service encounter (phone call) mitigated the experience of disgust, fear, and anger, whereas it exacerbated feelings of compassion for the ill employee.
Therapeutic hypothermia augments the restorative effects of PKC-β and Nox2 inhibition on an in vitro model of human blood–brain barrier
Authors: Kadir Rais Reskiawan A. , Alwjwaj Mansour , McCarthy Zoe , Bayraktutan Ulvi
Published: August 2021

To investigate whether therapeutic hypothermia augments the restorative impact of protein kinase C-β (PKC-β) and Nox2 inhibition on an in vitro model of human blood–brain barrier (BBB). Cells cultured in normoglycaemic (5.5 mM) or hyperglycaemic (25 mM, 6 to 120 h) conditions were treated with therapeutic hypothermia (35 °C) in the absence or presence of a PKC-β inhibitor (LY333531, 0.05 μM) or a Nox2 inhibitor (gp91ds-tat, 50 μM). BBB was established by co-culture of human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMECs) with astrocytes (HAs) and pericytes. BBB integrity and function were assessed via transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) and paracellular flux of sodium fluorescein (NaF, 376 Da). Nox activity (lucigenin assay), superoxide anion production (cytochrome-C reduction assay), cellular proliferative capacity (wound scratch assay) and actin cytoskeletal formation (rhodamine-phalloidin staining) were assessed both in HBMECs and HAs using the specific methodologies indicated in brackets. Therapeutic hypothermia augmented the protective effects of PKC-β or Nox2 inhibition on BBB integrity and function in experimental setting of hyperglycaemia, as evidenced by increases in TEER and concomitant decreases in paracellular flux of NaF. The combinatory approaches were more effective in repairing physical damage exerted on HBMEC and HA monolayers by wound scratch and in decreasing Nox activity and superoxide anion production compared to sole treatment regimen with either agent. Similarly, the combinatory approaches were more effective in suppressing actin stress fibre formation and maintaining normal cytoskeletal structure. Therapeutic hypothermia augments the cerebral barrier-restorative capacity of agents specifically targeting PKC-β or Nox2 pathways.
Alpha, FACTT, and Beyond
Authors: Bentler Peter M.
Published: August 2021

Sijtsma and Pfadt (Psychometrika, 2021) provide a wide-ranging defense for the use of coefficient alpha. Alpha is practical and useful when its limitations are acceptable. This paper discusses several methodologies for reliability, some new here, that go beyond alpha and were not emphasized by Sijtsma and Pfadt. Bentler’s (Psychometrika 33:335–345, 1968. https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02289328) combined factor analysis (FA) and classical test theory (CTT) model. FACTT provides a key conceptual foundation.
Automated semi-real-time detection of muscle activity with ultrasound imaging
Authors: Sosnowska Anna J. , Vuckovic Aleksandra , Gollee Henrik
Published: August 2021

Ultrasound imaging (USI) biofeedback is a useful therapeutic tool; however, it relies on qualitative assessment by a trained therapist, while existing automatic analysis techniques are computationally demanding. This study aims to present a computationally inexpensive algorithm based on the difference in pixel intensity between USI frames. During an offline experiment, where data was analyzed after the study, participants performed isometric contractions of the gastrocnemius medialis (GM) muscle, as executed (30% of maximum contraction) or attempted (low force contraction up to a point when the participant is aware of exerting force or contracting the muscle) movements, while USI, EMG, and force data were recorded. The algorithm achieved 99% agreement with EMG and force measurements for executed movements and 93% for attempted movements, with USI detecting 1.9% more contractions than the other methods. In the online study, participants performed GM muscle contractions at 10% and 30% of maximum contraction, while the algorithm provided visual feedback proportional to the muscle activity (based on USI recordings during the maximum contraction) in less than 3 s following each contraction. We show that the participants reached the target consistently, learning to perform precise contractions. The algorithm is reliable and computationally very efficient, allowing real-time applications on standard computing hardware. It is a suitable method for automated detection, quantification of muscle contraction, and to provide biofeedback which can be used for training of targeted muscles, making it suitable for rehabilitation.

Graphical abstract

Biofeedback session based on ultrasound imaging (USI) during muscle training. Novel, computationally inexpensive algorithm based on the difference in pixel intensity between USI frames is used to process the video and provide quantitative feedback on the strength of muscle contraction.