bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Starch Gelatinization on Digestibility and Human Health
Authors: Qi Xin , Tester Richard
Published: January 2023

The availability of digestible energy from consumed starch depends on whether the starch is in an amorphous/digestible or ordered/less digestible form. The capacity of man to digest starch has been an evolutionary process where early hunter gatherers would have eaten crops with relatively low amounts of starch that is also not cooked. This requires a lot of digestive effort to extract calories and hence the efficiency in the body of the starch digestive process. Modern man, however, cooks (and has done for centuries) starchy crops. This, combined with the high starch contents of foods that are also readily available, has led to excess calories in the diet (from other nutrient sources too) and associated disease states. This article is designed to set the gelatinization of starch in the context of health and how starch processing needs to be regulated to control excess calories in the diet – many from starch. Key messages to gain from this review are that i) starch is a potential source of energy and depending on how and when it is processed and consumed it will impact on energy and health plus that ii) overall management of calories – including from digestible starch – is critical for optimal health.
Decision tree for local + global imperfection combinations in double‐symmetric prismatic members – Practical recommendations in the framework of advanced analysis
Authors: Müller Andreas , Vild Martin , Taras Andreas
Published: January 2023

Better and simpler possibilities of structural optimization due to increasing computational power but also for reasons of environmental sustainability, the use of materials and their reusability lead to greater acceptance towards more advanced numerically intensive, so‐called ‘design by analysis' methods like geometrically and materially non‐linear analyses with imperfections (GMNIA). The general choice of imperfections and their combination in such models, especially for slender cross sections of intermediate length prone to an interaction between a global and local plate buckling, is crucial in terms of the reached load‐bearing capacity. Annex C of EN 1993‐1‐5:2010 makes use of the ‘70 %‐rule' for the combination of imperfection modes and amplitudes. This rule postulates that two GMNIA calculations should be conducted when local and global interactive buckling may be dominant; one with 100 % + 70 % of the maximum specified amplitude in either case. In addition, extended information is provided on the choice and combination of imperfections in the newly introduced and currently available draft of the prEN 1993‐1‐14:2020 (design assisted by finite element analysis). Although information is provided on how the local and global imperfections should be combined, it is not stated when it is relevant to consider those. Based on conducted GMNIA simulations on SHS/RHS (square and rectangular hollow sections) and I‐shaped sections, this article presents general decision support on the choice of equivalent imperfections. On the basis of numerical analysis, the developed flow chart and design routine allow for the decision whether the consideration of the interaction of local and global imperfections is required or not.
RBM15 silencing promotes ferroptosis by regulating the TGF‐β/Smad2 pathway in lung cancer
Authors: Feng Jing , Li Yaling , He Fen , Zhang Fuwei
Published: January 2023

Objective

We assessed the function and mechanism of RNA binding motif protein 15 (RBM15) silencing in lung cancer development.

Methods

The effects of RBM15 knockdown on A549 and H1299 cells were evaluated by MTT, EdU, wound healing, and transwell assay. We then detected the functions of RBM15 silencing on lipid peroxidation, labile iron pool (LIP), ferrous iron (Fe2+), and ferroptosis‐related genes. RNA sequencing was performed after RBM15 knockout in lung cancer cells, followed by differentially expressed genes (DEGs), Gene Ontology (GO), and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis were performed. Finally, the expression of RBM15 and pathway‐related genes was determined by western blot.

Results

RBM15 was highly expressed in lung cancer cells. RBM15 silencing reduced the viability, inhibited cell proliferation, invasion, and migration, and suppressed tumor growth in the xenograft mouse model. Knockout of RBM15 regulated ferroptosis‐related gene expression. LIP, Fe2+, and lipid peroxidation were distinctly increased by the knockout of RBM15. RNA‐seq sequencing revealed that there are 367 up‐regulated and 368 down‐regulated DEGs, which were enriched in molecular functions, biological processes, and cellular components. RBM15 silencing reduced the expression of TGF‐β/Smad2, and TGF‐β activator (SRI‐011381) reversed the inhibitory effect of RBM15 silencing on tumor cell growth.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that RBM15 silencing promoted ferroptosis in lung cancer cells by TGF‐β/Smad2 pathway, thereby inhibiting lung cancer cell growth, which may provide new light for lung cancer treatment.
Nrf2 and NF‐қB interplay in tamoxifen‐induced hepatic toxicity: A promising therapeutic approach of sildenafil and low‐dose γ radiation
Authors: Karam Heba M. , Galal Shereen M. , Lotfy Dina M.
Published: January 2023

Tamoxifen‐induced hepatotoxicity is an inevitable side effect during breast cancer treatment. Low‐dose gamma irradiation (IRR) shows many beneficial effects by stimulating various biological processes. This study evaluates the possible effect of sildenafil and low‐dose gamma radiation on liver damages as new treatment strategies. Group I (control), group II: (tamoxifen), group III: (tamoxifen + Sildenafil), group IV: (tamoxifen+ irradiation) and group V: (tamoxifen +Sildenafil + irradiation). Rats were sacrificed after 5 h from tamoxifen injection. Results showed that tamoxifen caused elevation in serum AST, ALT and ALP as well hepatic ROS, iNOS, MDA, Keap‐1 and NF‐Kb, in addition to diminution in hepatic Nrf2 and HO‐1. Exposure to low‐dose gamma radiation and sildenafil amended the alterations in the measured parameters in serum and tissue. Moreover, all results were confirmed by histopathological examination. In conclusion, sildenafil and low‐dose gamma radiation can mitigate the toxicity induced by tamoxifen in liver tissues. Hence, this treatment could be further evaluated as a new approach for alleviating various liver disorders.
Splicing factor SNRPA associated with microvascular invasion promotes hepatocellular carcinoma metastasis through activating NOTCH1/Snail pathway and is mediated by circSEC62/miR‐625‐5p axis
Authors: Mo Zhaohong , Li Ruixi , Cao Chuanlin , Li Yanjie , Zheng Shiyang , Wu Runxin , Xue Jinhua , Hu Jingxiong , Meng Hongyu , Zhai Hang , Huang Weiling , Zheng Fang , Zhou Boxuan
Published: January 2023

Microvascular invasion (MVI) is a crucial risk factor related to the metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but the underlying mechanisms remain to be revealed. Characterizing the inherent mechanisms of MVI may aid in the development of effective treatment strategies to improve the prognosis of HCC patients with metastasis. Through the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, we identified that small nuclear ribonucleoprotein polypeptide A (SNRPA) was related to MVI in HCC. SNRPA was overexpressed in MVI‐HCC and correlated with poor patient survival. Mechanistically, SNRPA promoted the epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT)‐like process for HCC cells to accelerate metastasis by activating the NOTCH1/Snail pathway in vitro and in vivo. Importantly, circSEC62 upregulated SNRPA expression in HCC cells via miR‐625‐5p sponging. Taking these results together, our study identified a novel regulatory mechanism among SNRPA, miR‐625‐5p, circSEC62 and the NOTCH1/Snail pathway in HCC, which promoted metastasis of HCC and may provide effective suggestions for improving the prognosis of HCC patients with metastasis.
Echocardiographic changes in the progress of reverse shunt and improvement to left‐to‐right shunt after medical treatment in dogs with bidirectional patent ductus arteriosus or ventricular septal defect: A report of two cases
Authors: Kim Yein , Kwon Danbee , Kim Sung‐Soo , Lee Kichang , Yoon Hakyoung
Published: January 2023

Two Maltese dogs were referred for evaluation of a congenital heart disease: one was diagnosed with patent ductus arteriosus and the other was diagnosed with a ventricular septal defect. The PDA patient was diagnosed with congenital heart disease 2 weeks ago and the VSD patient about 11 months ago at another hospital. Echocardiographic findings revealed a bidirectional shunt condition, and the dogs were treated with medical management using sildenafil and oxygen inhalation. After medical management, the dogs returned to clinically normal conditions, and echocardiographic findings revealed a return to left‐to‐right shunt tendency. These dogs had no clinical signs associated with heart disease 3 years after treatment. This case report describes changes in echocardiography findings according to the progression of the reverse shunt and the possibility of improvement to a left‐to‐right shunt after medical treatment.
Transient solute dispersion in electro‐osmotic viscoplastic flow in a microchannel
Authors: Roy Ashis Kumar , Debnath Sudip , Bég O. Anwar
Published: January 2023

The transport of a neutral solute in incompressible electro‐osmotic flow of Bingham plastic non‐Newtonian liquid flowing through a microchannel is studied theoretically. The flow is driven by a constant axially applied electric field. The non‐dimensional conservation equations with associated boundary conditions are solved with Gill's series expansion technique. The whole transport process is analyzed using three transport coefficients, namely, advection coefficient, dispersion coefficient and the apparent asymmetry coefficient, respectively. The mean concentration distribution of the solute is calculated via a third‐order approximation of the series expansion. The study investigates the collective effects of yield stress and electric double layer (EDL) thickness (inverse Debye length) on the transport of solute. The long‐term behaviour of mean concentration distribution is shown to be accurately predicted by second‐order approximations; however, utilizing third or higher order approximations in Gill's series expansion enables a more refined analysis of the small and moderate time behavior of transport coefficients. The present analysis is relevant to emerging applications in bio‐microfluidics exploiting electroviscous fluent media.
Assessment of non‐polynomial shear deformation theories for the free vibration and transient analysis of plates with functionally‐graded materials supported on an elastic foundation
Authors: Chanda Aniket Gopa , Kontoni Denise‐Penelope N. , Kumar Haldar Amit , Guan Zhongwei
Published: January 2023

In this article, various non‐polynomial higher‐order shear deformation theories are applied for the first time to analyze the free vibration and transient responses of plates with functionally graded material (FGM) supported on an elastic foundation. The shear deformation theories account for the non‐linear variation of the transverse shear strains with various warping functions, namely trigonometric, inverse hyperbolic, and inverse trigonometric ones. These models also inherently satisfy the traction‐free boundary conditions of transverse shear stresses at the top and bottom surfaces of the plates and do not require any shear correction factor. A two‐parameter model, namely Winkler‐Pasternak's elastic foundation model, is utilized to develop the interaction between the FGM plates and the elastic medium. The governing equations of motion are obtained using Hamilton's principle and solved analytically using Navier's solution scheme. Furthermore, the transient responses of the plates are obtained using Newmark's average acceleration method. The applicability of the present theories is established by solving several numerical problems and validating the results with the solutions available in the literature. The effects of various parameters like span‐thickness ratios, aspect ratios, gradation coefficients, mechanical loads, and foundation stiffness on the fundamental frequencies and the transient responses of the plates are thoroughly investigated. The comparison of the results reveals the efficiency of the non‐polynomial functions, and the capability of efficient prediction of the structural responses of the FGM plates at a similar computational cost compared to established models in the literature. Furthermore, the results show that the stiffness of the elastic foundation can tweak the stiffness characteristics of the FGM plate resulting in significant changes in the natural frequencies and more controlled displacement‐time responses.
Relating with More-than-Humans: Interbeing Rituality and Spiritual Practices in a Living World—An Introduction
Authors: Chamel Jean , Dansac Yael
Published: January 2023

Over the last twenty years, the rejection of singular or unique concepts of nature has given rise to a multiplicity of notions which are not limited to the “living” or “the visible”. Better than “non-humans” or “other-than-humans”, which characterize by opposition to the humans, that remain at the centre, the expression “more-than-humans” provides a framework that accommodates a broader definition of animated being by recognizing the possibility of liveliness, or at least agency or personality, to any entities with whom humans interact. Rituality can be seen as an important component of relationships between humans and more-than-humans in different cultural contexts across the globe. Three main issues related to ritual relationships with more-than-humans are discussed: how relationships are constructed and maintained through rituality; how ritual creativity and innovation transform and produce values, behaviours, and practices concerning more-than-humans; and how ritualized interactions with more-than-humans shape our day-to-day life.
Ritual Animism: Indigenous Performances, Interbeings Ceremonies and Alternative Spiritualities in the Global Rights of Nature Networks
Authors: Chamel Jean
Published: January 2023

Many ceremonies take place within the movement for the rights of nature, led by representatives of indigenous peoples and by non-indigenous ceremonialists that draw inspiration from them. The description of these ceremonies of (re)connection to non-human entities, water in particular, help understand better the mechanisms of ritual innovation and hybridization at work, as well as the processes of legitimation. What is defined in this chapter as ritual animism is understood as a tentative to overcome the cerebral bias that leads towards the naturalistic separation of nature and culture, body and mind. Such ritual animism aims to develop and facilitate a direct, incorporated relationship, with these more-than-humans. But it fails to foster an “ontology of dwelling” and these ceremonies are rather used to promote a holistic and monistic worldview that is shared with the broader alternative spiritualities milieu.
Virtual Disclosures and Self-emancipations: The Female Body and Self-identity on Online Platforms in Phuthaditjhaba
Authors: Nzombe Loice S. , Makombe Rodwell , Nyambi Oliver
Published: January 2023

Online social sites have become popular platforms for reimagining the self and (re)constructing identities. In a consumer-orientated neoliberal global order where bodies have become products to be branded, packaged and marketed, social networks have become ideal platforms for the representation and identification of bodies. Although some studies have examined the discursive construction of identities online, few have focused on the representation of the female body on social media and none has done so in the context of semi-urban spaces with a history of systemic underdevelopment such as the former Bantustan capital, Phuthaditjhaba. Thus, there is a clear dearth of knowledge about how we can read the impact of new technologies on the ever-shifting notions and perceptions of identity construction in such places. In line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) goal five, which envisages gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls by 2030, this chapter investigates how women in Phuthaditjhaba have appropriated social networks to instrumentalise the female body as a site and mechanic of female emancipation. We used netnography as instrument to collect data from 30 women users of Facebook and visual/textual analysis as an analytical framework to interrogate how the participants constructed identity and represented the female body on the selected social networking sites in the context of emerging and historical dimensions and dynamics of Phuthaditjhaba. Results of the study show that social media networks provide women in remote areas with an opportunity to discursively challenge limiting cultural traditions and formulate empowering and experiential new identities.
Artificial Intelligence: Definition and Background
Authors: Sheikh Haroon , Prins Corien , Schrijvers Erik
Published: January 2023

If we want to embed AI in society, we need to understand what it is. What do we mean by artificial intelligence? How has the technology developed? Where do we stand now?
Introduction
Authors: Bansal Jagdish Chand , Bajpai Prathu , Rawat Anjali , Nagar Atulya K.
Published: January 2023

Decision-making is a difficult task, and it requires careful analysis of the underlying problem at hand. The presence of various alternative solutions makes the decision-making problem even more difficult as all the available solutions are not optimal. Since resources, time, and money are limited, or even sometimes scarce, the quest for optimal choices is of paramount importance for the welfare of the mankind. Optimization is a mathematical tool and an indispensable part of the decision-making process which assists in finding optimal (or near optimal) solutions from the set of available solutions.
Sine Cosine Algorithm
Authors: Bansal Jagdish Chand , Bajpai Prathu , Rawat Anjali , Nagar Atulya K.
Published: January 2023

Sine cosine algorithm (SCA) [1] is relatively a new algorithm, in the field of meta-heuristic algorithms. SCA is a population-based probabilistic search method that updates the position of search agents in the population using simple concept of trigonometric functions sine and cosine. SCA algorithm is inspired from the periodic property of the sine and cosine functions. The periodicity of the sine and cosine function in the range $$[-1,1]$$ provides great capacity to exploit the search space and helps in maintaining a fine balance between exploration and exploitation. In previous Chap. 1, we have already discussed about the criticality of the exploration and exploitation capabilities of any meta-heuristic algorithm.
Sine Cosine Algorithm for Discrete Optimization Problems
Authors: Bansal Jagdish Chand , Bajpai Prathu , Rawat Anjali , Nagar Atulya K.
Published: January 2023

In many scenarios, the nature of the decision-making is discrete and we have to deal with a situation where decisions have to be made from the set of discrete choices, or mutually exclusive alternatives. Choices like passing the electric signal versus not passing the electric signal, going upward versus downward, or choosing a certain route over other available routes are discrete in nature. There are many physical systems for which continuous variable modeling is not sufficient to handle the complexity of the physical systems. For instance, communication models, transportation models, finite element analysis, and network routing models are discrete models. The discrete nature of the search space offers the leverage of definiteness, and possibilities for graphical representation of given particular choices. In fact, discrete optimization problems are of paramount importance in various branches of sciences, like decision-making, information systems, and combinatorics. Operation management decision problems, like product distribution, manufacturing facility design, machine sequencing, and production scheduling problems, fall under the purview of discrete optimization problems. Network designing, circuit designing, and automated production systems are also represented as discrete optimization  problems. Moreover, the application spectrum of discrete optimization  problems includes data mining, data processing, cryptography, graph theory, and many others.
Conclusion and Further Research Directions
Authors: Bansal Jagdish Chand , Bajpai Prathu , Rawat Anjali , Nagar Atulya K.
Published: January 2023

The increasing complexity of real-world optimization problems demands fast, robust, and efficient meta-heuristic algorithms. The popularity of these intelligent techniques is gaining popularity day by day among researchers from various disciplines of science and engineering. The sine cosine algorithm is a simple population-based stochastic approach for handling different optimization problems. In this work, we have discussed the basic sine cosine algorithm for continuous optimization problems, the multi-objective sine cosine algorithm for handling multi-objective optimization problems, and the discrete (or binary) versions of sine cosine algorithm for discrete optimization problems. Sine cosine algorithm (SCA) has reportedly shown competitive results when compared to other meta-heuristic algorithms. The easy implementation and less number of parameters make the SCA algorithm, a recommended choice for performing various optimization tasks. In this present chapter, we have studied different modifications and strategies for the advancement of the sine cosine algorithm. The incorporation of concepts like opposition-based learning, quantum simulation, and hybridization with other meta-heuristic algorithms have increased the efficiency and robustness of the SCA algorithm, and meanwhile, these techniques have also increased the application spectrum of the sine cosine algorithm.
Horizontal product differentiation in Varian’s model of sales
Authors: Nakagawa Kuninori
Published: January 2023

We consider the explicit introduction of firms’ choice of location into Varian’s model of sales. In our model, firms compete for both uninformed and informed consumers in a two-stage spatial competition model in which firms choose price and location. We obtain a result where both prices and locations are randomized in the subgame perfect equilibrium. The difference between each firm’s choice of location in the subgame perfect equilibrium is neither purely maximized at both ends of a line nor purely minimized at the center. Also, the expected profits in a subgame perfect equilibrium are equal to the maximum profit from an uninformed market in the absence of informed consumers. Thus, even when product differentiation is explicitly introduced into a Varian-type model, Varian’s implication can be retained; the opportunity for profit in an informed market is lost due to competition.
Active surveillance in renal transplant patients with prostate cancer: a multicentre analysis
Authors: Soeterik Timo F. W. , van den Bergh Roderick C. N. , van Melick Harm H. E. , Kelder Hans , Peretti Federica , Dariane Charles , Timsit Marc-Olivier , Branchereau Julien , Mesnard Benoit , Tilki Derya , Olsburgh Jonathon , Kulkarni Meghana , Kasivisvanathan Veeru , Breda Alberto , Biancone Luigi , Gontero Paolo , Gandaglia Giorgio , Marra Giancarlo ,   on behalf of the Young Academic Urologists Prostate Cancer Working Party (YAU-PCa WP), Hedli Oussama , Lebacle Cedric , Irani Jacques , Rodriguez-Faba Oscar , Todeschini Paola , Thibault Constance , Gaya Josep M. , Lamanna Gaetano , Secchi Antonio
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Due to medical improvements leading to increased life expectancy after renal transplantation and widened eligibility criteria allowing older patients to be transplanted, incidence of (low-risk) prostate cancer (PCa) is increasing among renal transplant recipients (RTR). It remains to be established whether active surveillance (AS) for PCa represents a safe treatment option in this setting. Therefore, we aim to compare AS discontinuation and oncological outcomes of AS for PCa of RTR vs. non-transplant patients.

Methods

Multicentre study including RTR diagnosed with PCa between 2008 and 2018 in whom AS was initiated. A subgroup of non-RTR from the St. Antonius hospital AS cohort was used as a control group. Comparison of RTR vs. non-RTR was performed by 2:1 propensity score matched survival analysis. Outcome measures included tumour progression-free survival, treatment-free survival, metastasis rates, biochemical recurrence rates and overall survival. Patients were matched based on age, year of diagnosis, PSA, biopsy ISUP grade group, relative number of positive biopsy cores and clinical stage.

Results

A total of 628 patients under AS were evaluated, including 17 RTRs and 611 non-RTRs. A total of 13 RTR cases were matched with 24 non-RTR cases. Median overall follow-up for the RTR and non-RTR matched cases was, respectively, 5.1 (IQR 3.2–8.7) years and 5.7 (IQR 4.8–8.1) years. There were no events of metastasis and biochemical recurrence among matched cases. The matched-pair analysis results in a 1-year and 5-year survival of the RTR and non-RTR patients were, respectively, 100 vs. 92%, and 39 vs. 76% for tumour progression, 100 vs. 91% and 59 vs. 76% for treatment-free survival and, respectively, 100 vs. 100% and 88 vs. 100% for overall survival. No significant differences in tumour progression-free survival (p = 0.07) and treatment-free survival were observed (p = 0.3). However, there was a significant difference in overall survival comparing both groups (p = 0.046).

Conclusions

AS may be carefully considered in RTR with low-risk PCa. In our preliminary analysis, no major differences were present in AS outcomes between RTR and non-RTR. Overall mortality was significantly higher in the RTR subgroup.
Evaluation of the convection-permitting regional climate model CNRM-AROME41t1 over Northwestern Europe
Authors: Lucas-Picher Philippe , Brisson E. , Caillaud C. , Alias A. , Nabat P. , Lemonsu A. , Poncet N. , Cortés Hernandez V. E. , Michau Y. , Doury A. , Monteiro D. , Somot S.
Published: January 2023

Since a decade, convection-permitting regional climate models (CPRCM) have emerged showing promising results, especially in improving the simulation of precipitation extremes. In this article, the CPRCM CNRM-AROME developed at the Centre National de Recherches Météorologiques (CNRM) since a few years is described and evaluated using a 2.5-km 19-year long hindcast simulation over a large northwestern European domain using different observations through an added-value analysis in which a comparison with its driving 12-km RCM CNRM-ALADIN is performed. The evaluation is challenging due to the lack of high-quality observations at both high temporal and spatial resolutions. Thus, a high spatio-temporal observed gridded precipitation dataset was built from the collection of seven national datasets that helped the identification of added value in CNRM-AROME. The evaluation is based on a series of standard climatic features that include long-term means and mean annual cycles of precipitation and near-surface temperature where CNRM-AROME shows little improvements compared to CNRM-ALADIN. Additional indicators such as the summer diurnal cycle and indices of extreme precipitation show, on the contrary, a more realistic behaviour of the CNRM-AROME model. Moreover, the analysis of snow cover shows a clear added-value in the CNRM-AROME simulation, principally due to the improved description of the orography with the CPRCM high resolution. Additional analyses include the evaluation of incoming shortwave radiation, and cloud cover using satellite estimates. Overall, despite some systematic biases, the evaluation indicates that CNRM-AROME is a suitable CPRCM that is superior in many aspects to the RCM CNRM-ALADIN.
Urine biomarker score captures response to induction therapy with lupus nephritis
Authors: Cody Ellen M. , Wenderfer Scott E. , Sullivan Kathleen E. , Kim Alfred H. J. , Figg Wesley , Ghumman Harneet , Qiu Tingting , Huang Bin , Devarajan Prasad , Brunner Hermine I.
Published: January 2023

Background

The Renal Activity Index for Lupus (RAIL) consists of urine protein assessment of neutrophil gelatinase–associated lipocalin, kidney injury molecule-1, monocyte chemotactic protein 1, adiponectin, hemopexin, and ceruloplasmin, which non-invasively identifies lupus nephritis (LN). We aimed to delineate RAIL scores with inactive versus active LN and changes over time with response to LN induction therapy.

Methods

There were 128 pediatric patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and age-matched healthy controls recruited in a prospective case control study, with kidney biopsy confirmation of LN. Laboratory and clinical information was recorded and urine collected at diagnosis and end of induction and during maintenance therapy. Response to therapy was assessed by repeat kidney biopsy or laboratory parameters. Urine was assayed for RAIL biomarkers and the RAIL score calculated.

Results

Pediatric RAIL (pRAIL) scores from 128 children and young adults with SLE (with/without LN: 70/38) including 25 during LN induction therapy, differentiated clinically active LN from inactive LN or without LN, and controls (all p < 0.0017). pRAIL scores significantly decreased with complete LN remission by 1.07 ± 1.7 (p = 0.03).

Conclusions

The RAIL biomarkers differentiate LN patients based on activity of kidney disease, with decreases of ≥ 1 in pRAIL scores indicating complete response to induction therapy. Significantly lower RAIL scores in healthy controls and in SLE patients without known LN raise the possibility of subclinical kidney disease.

Graphical abstract
The impact of DC-bus impedance on the switching performance of low-voltage silicon power MOSFETs
Authors: Vollmaier Franz , Langbauer Thomas , Krischan Klaus , Petrella Roberto
Published: January 2023

Typical DC-bus stabilization for low-voltage power circuits consists primarily of ceramic capacitors due to the capacity density and low equivalent series resistance (ESR) resulting in low conduction losses. Particularly in hard-switching and hard-commutation operation, the low ESR and high equivalent series inductance (ESL) of the capacitors in the commutation path restrict the damping of the switch node voltage overshoot and introduce high-frequency ringing, reducing the voltage margin of the transistor. Therefore, this paper analyzes the impact of the DC-bus impedance and proposes a DC-bus snubber based on an RC network to form the DC-bus impedance’s characteristic, which minimizes the overshoot voltage. A comprehensive simulation using measurement-derived component models is shown, which is verified by an in-situ measurement on a test PCB. Furthermore, transient measurements using a double pulse test setup show the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Long-term HbA1c variability and macro-/micro-vascular complications in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a meta-analysis update
Authors: Sartore Giovanni , Ragazzi Eugenio , Caprino Rosaria , Lapolla Annunziata
Published: January 2023

Aims

The aim of the present study was to evaluate, by means of a meta-analysis approach, whether new available data, appeared on qualified literature, can support the effectiveness of an association of HbA1c variability with the risk of macro- and/or micro-vascular complications in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods

The meta-analysis was conducted according to PRISMA Statement guidelines and considered published studies on T2DM, presenting HbA1c variability as standard deviation (SD) or its derived coefficient of variation (CV). Literature search was performed on PubMed in the time range 2015–July 2022, with no restrictions of language.

Results

Twenty-three selected studies fulfilled the aims of the present investigation. Overall, the analysis of the risk as hazard ratios (HR) indicated a significant association between the HbA1c variability, expressed either as SD or CV, and the complications, except for neuropathy. Macro-vascular complications were all significantly associated with HbA1c variability, with HR 1.40 (95%CI 1.31–1.50, p < 0.0001) for stroke, 1.30 (95%CI 1.25–1.36, p < 0.0001) for transient ischaemic attack/coronary heart disease/myocardial infarction, and 1.32 (95%CI 1.13–1.56, p = 0.0007) for peripheral arterial disease. Micro-vascular complications yielded HR 1.29 (95%CI 1.22–1.36, p < 0.0001) for nephropathy, 1.03 (95%CI 0.99–1.08, p = 0.14) for neuropathy, and 1.15 (95%CI 1.08–1.24, p < 0.0001) for retinopathy. For all-cause mortality, HR was 1.33 (95%CI 1.27–1.39, p < 0.0001), and for cardiovascular mortality 1.25 (95%CI 1.17–1.34, p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Our meta-analysis on HbA1c variability performed on the most recent published data since 2015 indicates positive association between HbA1c variability and macro-/micro-vascular complications, as well as mortality events, in T2DM, suggesting that this long-term glycaemic parameter merits further attention as a predictive, independent risk factor for T2DM population.
Commissioning of the Iseult CEA 11.7 T whole-body MRI: current status, gradient–magnet interaction tests and first imaging experience
Authors: Boulant Nicolas , Quettier Lionel ,   the Iseult Consortium, Aubert G. , Amadon A. , Belorgey J. , Berriaud C. , Bonnelye C. , Bredy Ph. , Chazel E. , Dilasser G. , Dubois O. , Giacomini E. , Gilgrass G. , Gras V. , Guihard Q. , Jannot V. , Juster F. P. , Lannou H. , Leprêtre F. , Lerman C. , Le Ster C. , Luong M. , Mauconduit F. , Molinié F. , Nunio F. , Scola L. , Sinanna A. , Touzery R. , Védrine P. , Vignaud A.
Published: January 2023

Objectives

The Iseult MRI is an actively shielded whole-body magnet providing a homogeneous and stable magnetic field of 11.7 T. After nearly 20 years of research and development, the magnet successfully reached its target field strength for the first time in 2019. This article reviews its commissioning status, the gradient–magnet interaction test results and first imaging experience.

Materials and methods

Vibration, acoustics, power deposition in the He bath, and field monitoring measurements were carried out. Magnet safety system was tested against outer magnetic perturbations, and calibrated to define a safe operation of the gradient coil. First measurements using parallel transmission were also performed on an ex-vivo brain to mitigate the RF field inhomogeneity effect.

Results

Acoustics measurements show promising results with sound pressure levels slightly above the enforced limits only at certain frequency intervals. Vibrations of the gradient coil revealed a linear trend with the B0 field only in the worst case. Field monitoring revealed some resonances at some frequencies that are still under investigation.

Discussion

Gradient-magnet interaction tests at up to 11.7 T are concluded. The scanner is now kept permanently at field and the final calibrations are on-going to pave the road towards the first acquisitions on volunteers.
Analysis of algebraic flux correction schemes for semi-discrete advection problems
Authors: Hajduk Hennes , Rupp Andreas
Published: January 2023

Based on recent developments regarding the analysis of algebraic flux correction schemes, we consider a locally bound-preserving discretization of the time-dependent advection equation. Specifically, we analyze a monolithic convex limiting scheme based on piecewise (multi-)linear continuous finite elements in the semi-discrete formulation. To stabilize the discretization, we use low order time derivatives in the definition of raw antidiffusive fluxes. Our analytical investigation reveals that their limited counterparts should satisfy a certain compatibility condition. The conducted numerical experiments suggest that this prerequisite is satisfied unless the size of mesh elements is vastly different. We prove global-in-time existence of semi-discrete approximations and derive an a priori error estimate for finite time intervals with a worst-case convergence rate of $$\frac{1}{2}$$

1
2

w. r. t. the $${\textrm{L}}^2$$

L

2

 error. This rate is optimal in the setting under consideration because we allow all correction factors of the flux-corrected scheme to become zero. In this case, the algorithm reduces to the bound-preserving discrete upwinding method but the limited counterpart of this scheme converges much faster, in practice. Additional numerical experiments are performed to verify the provable convergence rate for a few variants of the scheme.
Dissolution kinetics of cellulose in ionic solvents by polarized light microscopy
Authors: Villar Lorena , Pita Marta , Paez Javier , Sánchez Pablo B.
Published: January 2023

Aiming to increase the scarce information available on the kinetics of cellulose dissolution, we have applied an image-assisted technique based on the luminance evolution as cellulose dissolves to study this process under different experimental conditions. This protocol was validated via direct determination of the cellulose dissolved. In all cases datapoints were linearly fitted assuming a pseudo-zero order reaction which facilitates the comparison between datasets. To study the solvent effect we have used three ionic liquids with large basicity and found significantly different rates of dissolution, from faster to slower: [C$$_2$$

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Im][DEP]. Solvatochromic parameters and viscosity of the solvent media were determined and the latter was identified as a key factor slowing the process as it reduces ionic mobility. The weight of viscosity was estimated by removing the viscosity effect with a tuned solvent media doped with DMSO. Activation energy was 70% lower at constant viscosity. On the substrate side, particle size is the main factor affecting the dissolution rate. All samples were milled to homogenise the starting material and minimise the distortions caused by the size distribution. After, dissolution of three cellulose substrates under the same experimental conditions was analysed. Dissolution of natural fibers took twice as long as dissolving pulp which dissolves slower than lyocell fibers. This trend correlates with the roughness of the samples obtained by optical perfilometry which is consistent with the dissolution mechanism proposed in the literature.

Graphical abstract
Beyond the First Offer: Decoding Negotiation Openings and Their Impact on Economic and Subjective Outcomes
Authors: Lipp Wolfram E. , Smolinski Remigiusz , Kesting Peter
Published: January 2023

First offers play a significant role in negotiations as they anchor negotiators’ perceptions and influence negotiation outcomes in favor of the first-offer proposer. However, negotiation is a joint decision-making process in which a first offer is typically succeeded by a counteroffer. The impact of a counteroffer has not yet been systematically researched. We propose that a counteroffer influences negotiation outcomes like a first offer. In addition, we conceptualize the “anchor zone” as the distance between the first offer and the counteroffer. We theorize that the anchor zone influences negotiation outcomes because it captures additional information compared to a single offer. To test our hypotheses, we conducted two studies: Study 1 was a vignette study (n = 190) in which participants reacted to a counteroffer that they received based on their first offer as part of a simulated negotiation. Study 2 was an online experiment (n = 212) in which participants negotiated by exchanging offers with no further communication. Our analysis suggests that the counteroffer is a significant predictor of economic outcomes. Thus, it works like a first offer, but with a lower impact. In addition, the anchor zone predicted how far the final agreement was from the first offer. Furthermore, we found that the third offer, the average concessions, and the number of offers mediated the effects of the counteroffer and anchor zone on economic outcomes. Finally, we discovered that a more aggressive counteroffer reduced the subjective value of both negotiators.
Development of phytoplankton of Lake Vesijärvi during recovery from eutrophication
Authors: Salonen Kalevi , Vuorio Kristiina , Ketola Mirva , Keto Juha , Malin Ismo
Published: January 2023

Wastewaters discharged to Lake Vesijärvi ruined its recreational value and demanded mitigation measures. In the mid-1970s, the diversion of wastewaters elsewhere reduced epilimnetic total phosphorus concentration by ~ 40% from > 100 mg P m−3 in 5 years, but this was not enough to eliminate cyanobacterial blooms. In 1979–1984, hypolimnetic oxygenation was applied to decrease internal nutrient loading, but pumping warm surface water to the hypolimnion probably intensified gas ebullition from the sediment, carrying nutrients to the epilimnion and intensifying cyanobacterial blooms. Intensive fish removal in 1989–1994 was more successful. Five years of summer trawling removed over three-quarters of roach and smelt stock, and after the two most intensive fishing years, TP and chlorophyll concentrations abruptly decreased by ~ 35%. During subsequent years fish removal continued at ~ 30% intensity and maintained chlorophyll and total nutrient concentrations at a lower level until the end of the study. At the same time, the frequency of cyanobacterial blooms decreased from annual to twice per decade. Larger-scale oxygenation after 2010 no longer resulted in ebullition, and its effect on phytoplankton was indistinguishable from natural variability. Consequently, it was abandoned. The intensity of fish removal needed to maintain the present status of the lake is still awaiting evaluation.
Covering families of triangles
Authors: Cheong Otfried , Devillers Olivier , Glisse Marc , Park Ji-won
Published: January 2023

A cover for a family $${{\mathcal {F}}}$$
F
of sets in the plane is a set into which every set in $${{\mathcal {F}}}$$
F
can be isometrically moved. We are interested in the convex cover of smallest area for a given family of triangles. Park and Cheong conjectured that any family of triangles of bounded diameter has a smallest convex cover that is itself a triangle. The conjecture is equivalent to the claim that for every convex set $${{\mathcal {X}}}$$
X
there is a triangle Z whose area is not larger than the area of $${{\mathcal {X}}}$$
X
, such that Z covers the family of triangles contained in $${{\mathcal {X}}}$$
X
. We prove this claim for the case where a diameter of $${{\mathcal {X}}}$$
X
lies on its boundary. We also give a complete characterization of the smallest convex cover for the family of triangles contained in a half-disk, and for the family of triangles contained in a square. In both cases, this cover is a triangle.
Updates on the WHO diagnosis of IDH-mutant glioma
Authors: Reuss David.E.
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The WHO classification of Tumors of the Central Nervous System represents the international standard classification for brain tumors. In 2021 the 5th edition (WHO CNS5) was published, and this review summarizes the changes regarding IDH-mutant gliomas and discusses unsolved issues and future perspectives.

Methods

This review is based on the 5th edition of the WHO Blue Book of CNS tumors (WHO CNS5) and relevant related papers.

Results

Major changes include taxonomy and nomenclature of IDH-mutant gliomas. Essential and desirable criteria for classification were established considering technical developments. For the first time molecular features are not only relevant for the classification of IDH-mutant gliomas but may impact grading as well.

Conclusion

WHO CNS5 classification moves forward towards a classification which is founded on tumor biology and serves clinical needs. The rapidly increasing knowledge on the molecular landscape of IDH-mutant gliomas is expected to further refine classification and grading in the future.
Fictitious Language Games, Otherness, and Philosophy of Education: A View on the Later Wittgenstein
Authors: Zarębski Tomasz
Published: January 2023

The article combines later Wittgenstein’s fictitious language games, along with the forms of life associated with them, with the concept of otherness and places them both within the philosophy of education. The account of otherness overlaps with the view of fictional language games in that the latter deviates from our ordinary, extant uses of language and our Lebensform, and thus can be perceived as extraordinary, unusual, strange, and sometimes nonsensical. The advantages of dealing with such construed preposterousness rely, first, on its leading to a better understanding of our own form of life; second, on its opening a window on the changing of our form of life; third, on its acquainting us with the other. The educational roles of it are presented, first, as being needed at the very beginning of a child’s language learning, when the learner probes the limits of sense and thus enters the domain of otherness; second, as freeing children from the tyranny of adults’ norms and showing the norms that adults accept as absurd; thirdly, as puzzlement that gives an impulse to our thought development, which occurs in contact with the other. Therefore, it is claimed that Wittgenstein’s later philosophy opens perspectives on educational thinking not only in terms of teacher training (Abrichtung) of the learner to follow the rules of existing practices, but also in terms of imagination and critical attitude towards the existing forms of life.
Design of an Application-specific VLIW Vector Processor for ORB Feature Extraction
Authors: Ferreira Lucas , Malkowsky Steffen , Persson Patrik , Karlsson Sven , Åström Kalle , Liu Liang
Published: January 2023

In computer-vision feature extraction algorithms, compressing the image into a sparse set of trackable keypoints, empowers navigation-critical systems such as Simultaneous Localization And Mapping (SLAM) in autonomous robots, and also other applications such as augmented reality and 3D reconstruction. Most of those applications are performed in battery-powered gadgets featuring in common a very stringent power-budget. Near-to-sensor computing of feature extraction algorithms allows for several design optimizations. First, the overall on-chip memory requirements can be lessened, and second, the internal data movement can be minimized. This work explores the usage of an Application Specific Instruction Set Processor (ASIP) dedicated to perform feature extraction in a real-time and energy-efficient manner. The ASIP features a Very Long Instruction Word (VLIW) architecture comprising one RV32I RISC-V and three vector slots. The on-chip memory sub-system implements parallel multi-bank memories with near-memory data shuffling to enable single-cycle multi-pattern vector access. Oriented FAST and Rotated BRIEF (ORB) are thoroughly explored to validate the proposed architecture, achieving a throughput of 140 Frames-Per-Second (FPS) for VGA images for one scale, while reducing the number of memory accesses by 2 orders of magnitude as compared to other embedded general-purpose architectures.