bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Thermal Diffusivity of Glass Sieves: II. Gas-saturated Frits
Authors: Hammerschmidt Ulf , Abid Muhammad
Published: May 2021

The thermal diffusivity of gas-saturated glass sieves (frits) of porosities between 20 % and 48 % is presented as measured at room temperature and ambient pressure. The saturants cover a range in thermal diffusivity from 20.63 × 10–6 m2⋅s−1 to 172 × 10–6 m2⋅s−1. The experiments were carried out using a transient hot-bridge instrument of an expanded uncertainty of 5 % to 10 %. It turned out that all measured thermal diffusivities of the gas-saturated frits (1) are smaller than that of the borosilicate glass the frits are made from and (2) are completely different from the thermal diffusivities of the liquid-saturated frits. Both these discrepancies can be attributed to characteristic properties of the matrix and not directly to the saturants. The first divergence results from thermal tortuosity that lengthens the pathway of heat through the matrix, whereas the second arises from dissolved He that enhances the transport of heat through the matrix.
Robot Speed Adaption in Multiple Trajectory Planning and Integration in a Simulation Tool for Human-Robot Interaction
Authors: Glogowski Paul , Böhmer Alexander , Hypki Alfred , Kuhlenkötter Bernd
Published: April 2021

Speed and separation monitoring (SSM) is one of the four permissible collaborative operations in human-robot interaction (HRI). At all times, it must be ensured that the speed-dependent separation distance is maintained. To guarantee this, the robot speed or the robot path can be adapted. In this paper, the robot speed adaption for multiple trajectories is implemented in an HRI simulation tool and tested in an application example. Thereby, numerous complex process situations, such as a temporary robot stop or obstacles in the collaborative workspace, can be simulated. The simulation tool enables a comprehensive simulation, analysis and optimisation of human and robot motions within the HRI, already in the planning phase.
Improvement of Adaptive Learning Service Recommendation Algorithm Based on Big Data
Authors: Yang Ya-zhi , Zhong Yong , Woźniak Marcin
Published: May 2021

In view of the problem that the traditional learning service recommendation does not fully consider the distinct differences between individuals, it is easy to lead to the contradiction between unchanging learning resources and learners’ personalized learning needs that are constantly improving, so an adaptive learning service recommendation improvement algorithm based on big data is proposed. Idea is based on adaptive learning platform and function modules. We consider the individual differences between students, to students as the center, collect students’ personalized learning demand data, and according to the data information to build student demand model. On the basis of using data mining methods for clustering recommendation service resources in learning, the adaptive recommend according to students’ individual need is proposed. The experimental results show that the adaptive learning service recommendation algorithm based on big data has high recommendation accuracy, coverage rate and recall rate, which is of great significance in the actual learning service recommendation.
Is there Consumer Risk-Pooling in the Open Economy? The Evidence Reconsidered
Authors: Minford Patrick , Ou Zhirong , Zhu Zheyi
Published: May 2021

We revisit the evidence on consumer risk-pooling and uncovered interest parity. Widely used single-equation tests are strongly biased against both. Using the full-model, Indirect Inference test, which is unbiased and has Goldilocks power according to Monte Carlo experiments, we find that both the risk-pooling hypothesis and its weaker UIP version are generally accepted as part of a full world DSGE model. The fact that the risk-pooling hypothesis, with its implication of strong cross-border consumer linkage, has passed this test with generally the highest p-value, suggests that it deserves serious attention from policy-makers looking for a relevant model with which to discuss international monetary and other business cycle policies.
Correction to: Decision support system for ranking relevant indicators for reopening strategies following COVID-19 lockdowns
Authors: Almulhim Tarifa S. , Barahona Igor
Published: May 2021

A correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11135-021-01154-2
Patient perceptions of anticoagulant treatment with dabigatran or a vitamin K antagonist for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation according to region and age: an exploratory analysis from the RE-SONANCE study
Authors: Vinereanu Dragos , Napalkov Dmitry , Bergler-Klein Jutta , Benczur Bela , Ciernik Martin , Gotcheva Nina , Medvedchikov Alexey , Põder Pentti , Simić Dragan , Skride Andris , Tang Wenbo , Trusz-Gluza Maria , Vesely Jiří
Published: April 2021

Background

The oral anticoagulant dabigatran offers an effective alternative to vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation (AF), yet patient preference data are limited. The prospective observational RE-SONANCE study demonstrated that patients with AF, newly initiated on dabigatran, or switching to dabigatran from long-term VKA therapy, reported improved treatment convenience and satisfaction compared with VKA therapy. This pre-specified sub-study aimed to assess the impact of country and age on patients’ perceptions of dabigatran or VKA therapy in AF.

Methods

RE-SONANCE was an observational, prospective, multi-national study (NCT02684981) that assessed treatment satisfaction and convenience in patients switching from VKAs to dabigatran (Cohort A), or newly diagnosed with AF receiving dabigatran or VKAs (Cohort B), using the PACT-Q questionnaire. Pre-specified exploratory outcomes: variation in PACT-Q2 scores by country and age (< 65, 65 to < 75, ≥ 75 years) (both cohorts); variation in PACT-Q1 responses at baseline by country and age (Cohort B).

Results

Patients from 12 countries (Europe/Israel) were enrolled in Cohort A (n = 4103) or B (n = 5369). In Cohort A, mean (standard deviation) PACT-Q2 score increase was highest in Romania (convenience: 29.6 [23.6]) and Hungary (satisfaction: 26.0 [21.4]) (p < 0.001). In Cohort B, mean (standard error) increase in PACT-Q2 scores between dabigatran and VKAs was highest in Romania (visit 3: 29.0 [1.3]; 24.5 [0.9], p < 0.001). Mean PACT-Q2 score increase by age (all p < 0.001) was similar across ages. PACT-Q1 responses revealed lowest expectations of treatment success in Romania and greatest concerns about payment in Estonia, Latvia, and Romania, but were similar across ages.

Conclusions

Treatment satisfaction and convenience tended to favor dabigatran over VKAs. Regional differences in treatment expectations exist across Europe.

Trial and clinical registry

Trial registration number: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02684981.

Trial registration date: February 18, 2016.
Bedtime smart device usage and accelerometer-measured sleep outcomes in children and adolescents
Authors: Lee Paul H. , Tse Andy C. Y. , Cheung Teris , Do C. W. , Szeto Grace P. Y. , So Billy C. L. , Lee Regina L. T.
Published: April 2021

Purpose

We analyzed the association between bedtime smart device usage habits and accelerometer-measured sleep outcomes (total sleeping time, sleep efficiency, and wake after sleep onset) in Hong Kong children and adolescents aged 8–14.

Methods

A total of 467 students in Hong Kong participated in this study from 2016 to 2017. They self-reported their bedtime smart device usage habits. The primary caregiver of each participant was also invited to complete a self-administered questionnaire about the family’s social-economic status and bedtime smart device usage habits. An ActiGraph GT3X accelerometer was used to assess participants’ 7-day sleep outcomes.

Results

The mean age of the participants was 10.3 (SD 1.9), and 54% were girls. Among the participants, 27% (n = 139) used a smart device before sleep, and 33% (n = 170) kept the smart device on before sleep. In total, 27% (n = 128) placed the smart device within reach before sleep, 23% (n = 107) would wake up when notifications were received, and 25% (n = 117) immediately checked the device after being awakened by a notification. Multiple regression controlling for age, sex, socio-economic status, and other confounders showed that those who woke up after receiving a notification had a statistically longer sleeping time (19.7 min, 95% CI: 0.3, 39.1, p = 0.046), lower sleep efficiency (− 0.71%, 95% CI − 1.40, − 0.02, p = 0.04), and a longer wake after sleep onset (2.6 min, 95% CI: 0.1, 5.1, p = 0.045) than those who did not. Nonetheless, all primary caregivers’ bedtime smart device habits were insignificantly associated with all sleep outcomes of their children.

Conclusion

Those who woke up after receiving smart device notifications had lower sleep efficiency and longer wake after sleep onset than those who did not, and they compensated for their sleep loss by lengthening their total sleep time.
Lithiation of white button mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus) using lithium-fortified substrate: effect of fortification levels on Li uptake and on other trace elements
Authors: Pankavec Sviatlana , Falandysz Jerzy , Komorowicz Izabela , Hanć Anetta , Barałkiewicz Danuta , Fernandes Alwyn R.
Published: April 2021

High doses of lithium salts are used for the treatment or prevention of episodes of mania in bipolar disorder, but the medication is rapidly excreted and also shows side effects. Li may also be beneficial in people with mood disorders. Nutritionally, popular foods such as wild and cultivated mushrooms have low Li contents. This study evaluated the Li enrichment of whiteAgaricus bisporusmushrooms using Li2CO3solutions to fortify the commercial growing substrate at various concentrations from 1.0 to 500 mg kg−1dry weight (dw). Fortification of up to 100 mg kg−1dw resulted in a significant (p< 0.01) dose-dependent increase in the accumulation of Li in mushroom, but the highest fortification level was found to be detrimental to fruitification. The median values of Li in fortified mushrooms corresponded to the fortification levels, increasing from 0.49 to 17 mg kg−1dw relative to the background concentration of 0.056 mg kg−1dw (control substrate contained 0.10 mg kg−1dw). The potential for Li uptake in fruiting bodies was found to decrease at higher levels of fortification, with saturation occurring at 100 mg kg−1. Resulting lithiated mushrooms were up to 300-fold richer in Li content than specimens grown on control substrate. The fortification showed some effects on the uptake of other trace minerals, but concentrations of co-accumulated Ag, Al, As, Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Cs, Cu, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Rb, Sr, Tl, U, V and Zn were similar or lower than values reported in the literature for commercialA. bisporus. These lithiated mushrooms could be considered as a pro-medicinal alternative to treatments that use Li salts.

Graphical abstract
Overcoming Systemic Barriers Preventing Healthy Urban Development in the UK: Main Findings from Interviewing Senior Decision-Makers During a 3-Year Planetary Health Pilot
Authors: Black Daniel , Pilkington Paul , Williams Ben , Ige Janet , Prestwood Emily , Hunt Alistair , Eaton Eleanor , Scally Gabriel
Published: May 2021

This paper sets out the main findings from two rounds of interviews with senior representatives from the UK’s urban development industry: the third and final phase of a 3-year pilot, Moving Health Upstream in Urban Development’ (UPSTREAM). The project had two primary aims: firstly, to attempt to value economically the health cost-benefits associated with the quality of urban environments and, secondly, to interview those in control of urban development in the UK in order to reveal the potential barriers to, and opportunities for, the creation of healthy urban environments, including their views on the use of economic valuation of (planetary) health outcomes. Much is known about the ‘downstream’ impact of urban environments on human and planetary health and about how to design and plan healthy towns and cities (‘midstream’), but we understand relatively little about how health can be factored in at key governance tipping points further ‘upstream’, particularly within dominant private sector areas of control (e.g. land, finance, delivery) at sub-national level. Our findings suggest that both public and private sector appeared well aware of the major health challenges posed by poor-quality urban environments. Yet they also recognized that health is not factored adequately into the urban planning process, and there was considerable support for greater use of non-market economic valuation to help improve decision-making. There was no silver bullet however: 110 barriers and 76 opportunities were identified across a highly complex range of systems, actors and processes, including many possible points of targeted intervention for economic valuation. Eight main themes were identified as key areas for discussion and future focus. This findings paper is the second of two on this phase of the project: the first sets out the rationale, approach and methodological lessons learned.
Autophosphorylation and the Dynamics of the Activation of Lck
Authors: Kreusser Lisa Maria , Rendall Alan D.
Published: May 2021

Lck (lymphocyte-specific protein tyrosine kinase) is an enzyme which plays a number of important roles in the function of immune cells. It belongs to the Src family of kinases which are known to undergo autophosphorylation. It turns out that this leads to a remarkable variety of dynamical behaviour which can occur during their activation. We prove that in the presence of autophosphorylation one phenomenon, bistability, already occurs in a mathematical model for a protein with a single phosphorylation site. We further show that a certain model of Lck exhibits oscillations. Finally, we discuss the relations of these results to models in the literature which involve Lck and describe specific biological processes, such as the early stages of T cell activation and the stimulation of T cell responses resulting from the suppression of PD-1 signalling which is important in immune checkpoint therapy for cancer.
Integrated multi-modality image-guided navigation for neurosurgery: open-source software platform using state-of-the-art clinical hardware
Authors: Shapey Jonathan , Dowrick Thomas , Delaunay Rémi , Mackle Eleanor C. , Thompson Stephen , Janatka Mirek , Guichard Roland , Georgoulas Anastasis , Pérez-Suárez David , Bradford Robert , Saeed Shakeel R. , Ourselin Sébastien , Clarkson Matthew J. , Vercauteren Tom
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Image-guided surgery (IGS) is an integral part of modern neuro-oncology surgery. Navigated ultrasound provides the surgeon with reconstructed views of ultrasound data, but no commercial system presently permits its integration with other essential non-imaging-based intraoperative monitoring modalities such as intraoperative neuromonitoring. Such a system would be particularly useful in skull base neurosurgery.

Methods

We established functional and technical requirements of an integrated multi-modality IGS system tailored for skull base surgery with the ability to incorporate: (1) preoperative MRI data and associated 3D volume reconstructions, (2) real-time intraoperative neurophysiological data and (3) live reconstructed 3D ultrasound. We created an open-source software platform to integrate with readily available commercial hardware. We tested the accuracy of the system’s ultrasound navigation and reconstruction using a polyvinyl alcohol phantom model and simulated the use of the complete navigation system in a clinical operating room using a patient-specific phantom model.

Results

Experimental validation of the system’s navigated ultrasound component demonstrated accuracy of $$<4.5\,\hbox {mm}$$

<
4.5

mm

and a frame rate of 25 frames per second. Clinical simulation confirmed that system assembly was straightforward, could be achieved in a clinically acceptable time of $$<15\,\hbox {min}$$

<
15

min

and performed with a clinically acceptable level of accuracy.

Conclusion

We present an integrated open-source research platform for multi-modality IGS. The present prototype system was tailored for neurosurgery and met all minimum design requirements focused on skull base surgery. Future work aims to optimise the system further by addressing the remaining target requirements.
A novel multi-DoF surgical robotic system for brachytherapy on liver tumor: Design and control
Authors: Lin Xiaofeng , Zhou Shoujun , Wen Tiexiang , Jiang Shenghao , Wang Cheng , Chen Jingtao
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Radioactive seed implantation is an effective invasive treatment method for malignant liver tumors in hepatocellular carcinomas. However, challenges of the manual procedure may degrade the efficacy of the technique, such as the high accuracy requirement and radiation exposure to the surgeons. This paper aims to develop a robotic system and its control methods for assisting surgeons on the treatment.

Method

We present an interventional robotic system, which consists of a 5 Degree-of-Freedom (DoF) positioning robotic arm (a 3-DoF translational joint and a 2-DoF revolute joint) and a needle actuator used for needle insertion and radioactive seeds implantation. Control strategy is designed for the system to ensure the safety of the motion. In the designed framework, an artificial potential field (APF)-based motion planning and an ultrasound (US) image-based contacting methods are proposed for the control.

Result

Experiments were performed to evaluate position and orientation accuracy as well as validate the motion planning procedure of the system. The mean and standard deviation of targeting error is 0.69 mm and 0.33 mm, respectively. Needle placement accuracy is 1.10 mm by mean. The feasibility of the control strategy, including path planning and the contacting methods, is demonstrated by simulation and experiments based on an abdominal phantom.

Conclusion

This paper presents a robotic system with force and US image feedback in assisting surgeons performing brachytherapy on liver tumors. The proposed robotic system is capable of executing an accurate needle insertion task with by optical tracking. The proposed methods improve the safety of the robot’s motion and automate the process of US probe contacting under the feedback of US-image.
„Who are we and how many?“ – Zur statistischen Konstruktion globaler Personenkategorien
Authors: Bennani Hannah , Müller Marion
Published: April 2021

Ausgehend von der Annahme, dass Personenkategorien in internationalen Statistiken nicht nur sichtbar gemacht, sondern auch (mit-)erzeugt, reproduziert und objektiviert werden, fragt der Beitrag danach, wie genau Zahlen über personale Differenzierungen mit einem globalen Geltungsanspruch zustande kommen. Datengrundlage sind Dokumente aus internationalen Organisationen zu den entsprechenden politischen Entscheidungen sowie technische Anweisungen und Methodenhandbücher mit Erhebungsempfehlungen. Mithilfe einer wissenssoziologisch inspirierten Detailanalyse werden die üblicherweise nicht mehr sichtbaren Schritte der Quantifizierung anhand ausgewählter Beispiele (u. a. „Alter“, „Geschlecht“, „Ethnizität“, „Behinderung“) rekonstruiert: angefangen bei der begrifflichen Standardisierung personaler Merkmale, über ihre Operationalisierung und Festlegung von Indikatoren bis hin zur Aggregation der Einzelfälle zu Zahlen auf Weltebene. Dabei werden sowohl die Spannungen sichtbar, die zwischen der möglichst differenzierten Erfassung verschiedener Personen und der enormen Komplexitätsreduktion von Zahlen bestehen, als auch die Herausforderungen der Etablierung eines globalen Äquivalenzraumes. Der Beitrag verbindet damit vor allem Fragen der Kategorisierungs- und Quantifizierungsforschung und liefert innovative Einsichten darüber, wie genau kategoriale Differenzierungen zwischen Menschen in Zahlen transformiert und mit Objektivität versehen werden.
Usefulness of computed tomography for hospitalized adult patients with fever to investigate cause of fever: single-center, retrospective cohort study
Authors: Hamabe Fumiko , Terayama Takero , Mikoshi Ayako , Murakami Wakana , Yamada Kohei , Soga Shigeyoshi , Shinmoto Hiroshi
Published: May 2021

Purpose

To verify that physicians’ presumptive diagnosis is the most significant factor for finding any signs related to the cause of fever on computed tomography (CT) images.

Materials and methods

This single-center retrospective cohort study included patients (age ≥ 16 years) who underwent CT to investigate the cause of fever between January 1, 2014, and August 31, 2016. Patients who underwent surgical procedures were excluded. The primary outcome was the presence of suspicious CT findings related to the cause of fever. We performed univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses, adjusted for CT contrast agent use, quick sequential organ failure assessment score > 1, and C-reactive protein level.

Results

We enrolled 171 patients, of which 57 had CT findings, and 114 did not. Multivariate logistic regression analyses demonstrated a significant difference for the presence of a presumptive diagnosis by the attending physician (odds ratio, 4.99; 95% confidence interval 2.31–10.76; p < 0.01), but not for other covariates, including C-reactive protein.

Conclusions

In hospitalized patients with fever, an attending physicians’ presumptive diagnosis is associated with the presence of fever-related CT findings. Improving the quality of the diagnostic assessment before the CT scan may lead to more appropriate CT imaging use.
Correction to: Sustainable transitions towards a resilient and decentralised future: Japan’s Circulating and Ecological Sphere (CES)
Authors: Ortiz-Moya Fernando , Kataoka Yatsuka , Saito Osamu , Mitra Bijon Kumer , Takeuchi Kazuhiko
Published: May 2021

A correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11625-021-00962-7
Chimeric Antigen Receptor–Modified T Cells and T Cell–Engaging Bispecific Antibodies: Different Tools for the Same Job
Authors: Schwerdtfeger Melanie , Benmebarek Mohamed-Reda , Endres Stefan , Subklewe Marion , Desiderio Vincenzo , Kobold Sebastian
Published: May 2021

Purpose of Review

Both chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells and T cell–engaging antibodies (BiAb) have been approved for the treatment of hematological malignancies. However, despite targeting the same antigen, they represent very different classes of therapeutics, each with its distinct advantages and drawbacks. In this review, we compare BiAb and CAR T cells with regard to their mechanism of action, manufacturing, and clinical application. In addition, we present novel strategies to overcome limitations of either approach and to combine the best of both worlds.

Recent Findings

By now there are multiple approaches combining the advantages of BiAb and CAR T cells. A major area of research is the application of both formats for solid tumor entities. This includes improving the infiltration of T cells into the tumor, counteracting immunosuppression in the tumor microenvironment, targeting antigen heterogeneity, and limiting off-tumor on-target effects.

BiAb come with the major advantage of being an off-the-shelf product and are more controllable because of their half-life. They have also been reported to induce less frequent and less severe adverse events. CAR T cells in turn demonstrate superior response rates, have the potential for long-term persistence, and can be additionally genetically modified to overcome some of their limitations, e.g., to make them more controllable.
Epigenetics of Indolent Lymphoma and How It Drives Novel Therapeutic Approaches—Focus on EZH2-Targeted Drugs
Authors: Longley Jemma , Johnson Peter W. M.
Published: May 2021

Purpose of Review

Epigenetic modifier gene mutations are common in patients with follicular lymphoma. Here we review the pathogenesis of these mutations and how they are targeted by epigenetic drugs including EZH2 inhibitors in both mutated and wild-type disease.

Recent Findings

The use of EZH2 inhibitor tazematostat in early phase clinical trials has proved encouraging in the treatment of follicular lymphoma harbouring an EZH2 mutation; however, responses are also seen in patients with wild-type disease which is partially explained by the off target effects of EZH2 inhibition on immune cells within the tumour microenvironment.

Further studies incorporating prospective molecular profiling are needed to allow stratification of patients at both diagnosis and relapse to further our understanding of how epigenetic modifier mutations evolve over time. The use of tazematostat in combination or upfront in patients with an EZH2 mutation remains unanswered; however, given durable responses, ease of oral administration, and tolerability, it is certainly an attractive option.
A Future Road Map for Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Gas Hydrate as an Emerging Technology in Food Research
Authors: Srivastava Shubhangi , Hitzmann Bernd , Zettel Viktoria
Published: May 2021

Gas hydrates constitute of gas as a guest molecule in hydrogen-bonded water lattices. This review covers ongoing hydrate research in food technology with a spotlight on carbon dioxide (CO2) application as a hydrate. The application of gas hydrates in the concentration of juices, desalination, carbonation, and food preservation has been covered in the review. One of the applications of CO2 hydrate technology was in the concentration of orange juice which gave a dehydration ratio (DR) of 57.2% at a pressure of 4.1 MPa. Similarly, one study applied it for the tomato juice concentration and had a DR of 65.2%. The CO2 hydrate rate constants recorded were 0.94 × 10−8 and 1.65 × 10−8 J−1 mol2 s−1 at a feed pressure of 1.81 and 3.1 MPa respectively. Hence, CO2 hydrate can be used effectively for the juice concentration as well as for other applications too. The review will cater insights on the generic trends of hydrates in food research with respect to their kinetics properties and their role in food applications. Despite the fact that there are no technology stoppers to exploit CO2 hydrates, a downright technological quantum leap is the need of the future in this riveting field. Thus, the perspectives and key challenges in food research are also discussed. The food applications of CO2 gas hydrates are still very scarce so there is an urge to carry through more theoretical and experimental analysis to elucidate various applications of hydrates in food and to positively validate its sustainability.
Is the impact of high reward sensitivity and poor cognitive control on adolescent risk-taking more visible in rewarding conditions?
Authors: Fryt Joanna , Smoleń Tomasz , Czernecka Karolina , Szczygieł Monika , La Torre Amelia
Published: May 2021

Adolescents are expected to take more risks than adults. The presented study was designed to determine whether adolescent risk-taking results from high reward sensitivity and poor cognitive control. In particular, we aimed to examine whether the impact of these variables is more visible in rewarding than non-rewarding conditions. Ninety adolescents (aged 13–16) and 95 young adults (aged 20–28) took part in the study. We used a driving task in rewarded and non-rewarded conditions to measure risk-taking. We also used tasks measuring reward sensitivity, cognitive control and impulsivity. Additionally we used self-report measures of reward sensitivity, self-control and everyday risk-taking to see whether the effects observed for self-reports mimic the effects observed for behavioral tasks. We found that the higher the reward sensitivity, the more adolescents (but not adults) risk in the rewarded condition of a driving task. We found no impact of cognitive control or impulsivity on risk-taking, regardless of age and condition. At the self-report level, we found that the higher the reward sensitivity and the poorer the self-control, the more both adolescents and adults displayed everyday risk-taking behavior.
Angular Extents and Trajectory Slopes in the Theory of Holomorphic Semigroups in the Unit Disk
Authors: Contreras Manuel D. , Díaz-Madrigal Santiago , Gumenyuk Pavel
Published: May 2021

We study relationships between the asymptotic behaviour of a non-elliptic semigroup of holomorphic self-maps of the unit disk and the geometry of its planar domain (the image of the Koenigs function). We establish a sufficient condition for the trajectories of the semigroup to converge to its Denjoy–Wolff point with a definite slope. We obtain as a corollary two previously known sufficient conditions.
Decline of democracy—the European Union at a crossroad
Authors: Smolka Theresia
Published: April 2021

Although EU member states have committed themselves to upholding the fundamental democratic values enshrined in Article 2 Treaty on European Union, violations of these values could be observed in some member states—first and foremost in Hungary and Poland. This article studies whether these negative developments, which are often summarized under the terms backsliding or erosion of democracy, should be classified as a loss in the quality of democracy or even as a decline of democracy. By drawing on Gero Erdmann’s (2011) theoretical definition of decline of democracy and using Democracy Barometer data for the period between 2004 and 2016, this form of loss of the quality of democracy is analysed for the 28 EU member states. In addition, the EU’s role in safeguarding democracy in its member states is discussed. The article shows that it is not only the new EU members that show a decline of democracy more frequently, but the old EU members. The EU as guardian of the democratic fundamental values is failing to live up to its role despite the numerous instruments it has at its disposal.
Demand-Driven Biogas Production from Anaerobic Digestion of Sewage Sludge: Application in Demonstration Scale
Authors: Lafratta Mauro , Thorpe Rex B. , Ouki Sabeha K. , Shana Achame , Germain Eve , Willcocks Mark , Lee Jacquetta
Published: May 2021

The power system needs flexible electricity generators. Whilst electricity generation from anaerobic digestion (AD) of sewage sludge has traditionally been baseload, transforming the generation capacity into a modern flexible operator is an opportunity to further valorise the resource. This work aims to demonstrate that AD of sewage sludge can support flexible generation and be operated dynamically in a relevant operational environment, to promote full scale implementation. A demonstration scale plant (20 m3 conventional AD reactors) was used to test several feeding regimes designed to return a biogas production rate that matches the demand. Two demand profiles are defined, either by common corporate power purchase agreements or by the main balancing mechanism used by the grid operator in UK. Demand-driven biogas production is demonstrated in this relevant operational environment, and the flexibilisation performance is positive in all scenarios. The value of the biogas increases by up to 2%, which outperforms the results obtained at pilot scale. Additionally, an increase in biogas yield is observed. Whilst transitional imbalances are recorded, they last for few hours and the overall stability is not affected. In conclusion, these trials demonstrate demand-driven biogas production is a feasible operational solution and full-scale implementation is possible.

Graphical Abstract
Involvement of transcribed lncRNA uc.291 and SWI/SNF complex in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Mancini M. , Cappello A. , Pecorari R. , Lena A. M. , Montanaro M. , Fania L. , Ricci F. , Di Lella G. , Piro M. C. , Abeni D. , Dellambra E. , Mauriello A. , Melino G. , Candi E.
Published: May 2021

While non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs) are the most common tumours in humans, only the sub-type cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC), might become metastatic with high lethality. We have recently identified a regulatory pathway involving the lncRNA transcript uc.291 in controlling the expression of epidermal differentiation complex genes via the interaction with ACTL6A, a component of the chromatin remodelling complex SWI/SNF. Since transcribed ultra-conserved regions (T-UCRs) are expressed in normal tissues and are deregulated in tumorigenesis, here we hypothesize a potential role for dysregulation of this axis in cSCC, accounting for the de-differentiation process observed in aggressive poorly differentiated cutaneous carcinomas. We therefore analysed their expression patterns in human tumour biopsies at mRNA and protein levels. The results suggest that by altering chromatin accessibility of the epidermal differentiation complex genes, down-regulation of uc.291 and BRG1 expression contribute to the de-differentiation process seen in keratinocyte malignancy. This provides future direction for the identification of clinical biomarkers in cutaneous SCC. Analysis of publicly available data sets indicates that the above may also be a general feature for SCCs of different origins.
A peep into the state of ground water quality in the district of Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu, India, from a radiological and chemical toxicity perspective
Authors: Ganesh Durai , Senthilkumar G. , Eswaran P. , Balakrishnan M. , Bramha S. N. , Chandrasekaran S. , Ravisankar R.
Published: May 2021

Uranium concentration in the ground water samples from the district of Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu, was measured using an LED fluorimeter. All the samples were qualified as potable water from the radiological perspective. Though some samples showed mild chemical toxicity, they are still safe for ingestion. Different risk coefficients were calculated, and they were compared with recommended safety limits specified by various agencies. Software tools such as QGIS 15, GraphPad Prism 8 and Surfer 15 were employed for developing maps and plots.
Characteristics of outpatient emergency department visits of nursing home residents: an analysis of discharge letters
Authors: Heinold Stephanie , Fassmer Alexander Maximilian , Schmiemann Guido , Hoffmann Falk
Published: May 2021

Background

Unplanned emergency department (ED) visits of nursing home residents (NHR) are common, with many transfers not leading to hospitalization. However, there is little research on what diagnostic and therapeutic measures are performed during visits.

Aims

We analyzed underlying diagnoses, characteristics and performed medical procedures of unplanned outpatient ED visits by NHR.

Methods

We conducted a multi-center study of 14 nursing homes (NHs) in northwestern Germany in 03/2018–07/2019. Hospital transfers were documented by nursing staff using a standardized questionnaire for 12 months. In addition, discharge letters were used to collect information about the respective transfer, its reasons and the extend of the medical services performed in the ED.

Results

A total of 161 unplanned ED visits were included (mean age: 84.2 years; 68.3% females). The main transfer reasons were trauma (59.0%), urinary catheter and nutritional probe problems (overall 10.6%; male NHR 25.5%) and altered mental state (9.9%). 32.9% where discharged without imaging or blood test prior. 67.4% of injured NHR (n = 95) required no or only basic wound care. Catheter-related problems (n = 17) were mainly treated by changing an existing suprapubic catheter (35.3%) and by flushing the pre-existing catheter (29.4%).

Discussion

Our data suggest that the diagnostic and therapeutic interventions performed in ED, often do not exceed general practitioner (GP) care and many ED visits seem to be unnecessary.

Conclusion

Better coordination and consultation with GPs as well as better training of nursing staff in handling catheter problems could help to reduce the number of ED visits.
Assessing the Effects of Childhelp’s Speak Up be Safe Child Abuse Prevention Curriculum for High School Students
Authors: Diaz Marisol Juarez , Moreland Diane , Wolfersteig Wendy
Published: May 2021

Purpose

This study examined the Childhelp Speak Up Be Safe (CHSUBS) child abuse prevention curriculum for high school students and addressed a gap in evidence-based child maltreatment prevention programs. CHSUBS is grounded in theory and was developed to 1) provide students with the skills they need to prevent or interrupt child abuse, bullying, and neglect, and 2) increase student knowledge about safety related to abuse.

Methods

Utilizing a cluster-randomized controlled trial design, the three high schools were randomly assigned to participate in the CHSUBS curriculum or the control group. Survey items measured the efficacy of the curriculum in grades 9 through 12. Surveys were implemented at baseline, immediately after the intervention, and after 6 months for a follow-up. Analyses included exploratory factor analyses and a paired samplest–test to determine whether increases in child maltreatment knowledge and resistance skills were gained.

Results

Findings showed positive significant results that child maltreatment knowledge and resistance skills were significantly different from pre to post for the CHSUBS group and showed no significant control group changes.

Conclusions

High school students in the CHSUBS group appeared to gain both child maltreatment knowledge and resistance skills. Future studies on prevention programming for high school students might show results that lead to a reduction in child maltreatment and an increase in better health outcomes for adolescents.
On topological structures of virtual fuzzy parametrized fuzzy soft sets
Authors: Dalkılıç Orhan
Published: April 2021

With the generalization of the concept of set, more comprehensive structures could be constructed in topological spaces. In this way, it is easier to express many relationships on existing mathematical models in a more comprehensive way. In this paper, the topological structure of virtual fuzzy parametrized fuzzy soft sets is analyzed by considering the virtual fuzzy parametrized fuzzy soft set theory, which is a hybrid set model that offers very practical approaches in expressing the membership degrees of decision makers, which has been introduced to the literature in recent years. Thus, it is aimed to contribute to the development of virtual fuzzy parametrized fuzzy soft set theory. To construct a topological structure on virtual fuzzy parametrized fuzzy soft sets, the concepts of point, quasi-coincident and mapping are first defined for this set theory and some of its characteristic properties are investigated. Then, virtual fuzzy parametrized fuzzy soft topological spaces are defined and concepts such as open, closed, closure, Q-neighborhood, interior, base, continuous, cover and compact are given. In addition, some related properties of these concepts are analyzed. Finally, many examples are given to make the paper easier to understand.
Differential evolution algorithm with population knowledge fusion strategy for image registration
Authors: Sun Yu , Li Yaoshen , Yang Yingying , Yue Hongda
Published: May 2021

Image registration is a challenging NP-hard problem within the computer vision field. The differential evolutionary algorithm is a simple and efficient method to find the best among all the possible common parts of images. To improve the efficiency and accuracy of the registration, a knowledge-fusion-based differential evolution algorithm is proposed, which combines segmentation, gradient descent method, and hybrid selection strategy to enhance the exploration ability in the early stage and the exploitation ability in the later stage. The proposed algorithms have been implemented and tested with CEC2013 benchmark and real image data. The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm is superior to the existing algorithms in terms of solution quality, convergence speed, and solution success rate.
Selected ions and major and trace elements as contaminants in coal-waste dump water from the Lower and Upper Silesian Coal Basins (Poland)
Authors: Lewińska-Preis Lucyna , Szram Ewa , Fabiańska Monika J. , Nádudvari Ádám , Misz-Kennan Magdalena , Abramowicz Anna , Kruszewski Łukasz , Kita Andrzej
Published: May 2021

Many temporary and permanent reservoirs of water occur on or near coal-waste dumps in the Lower- and Upper Silesian Coal Basins (Poland). Little or nothing is known of the degree to which their water chemistry might reflect (i) reservoir type, i.e., whether permanent or temporary, (ii) level of coal-waste thermal activity, i.e., whether inactive or self-heating or burnt-out or (iii) region, i.e., whether the dumps are in Upper- or Lower Silesia. To provide some answers, concentrations of selected ions (NH4+, HCO3−, F−, Cl−, Br−, NO2−, NO3−, PO43−,SO42−) were determined by ion chromatography and of nineteen elements (Al, B, Ba, Ca, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Li, Mg, Mn, Na, P, Pb, S, Si, Sr, Zn) by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The data allow a number of the following observations. When permanent reservoirs are considered, there is a clear relationship between concentrations of ions and major and trace elements and dump thermal activity. The highest concentrations occur where the thermal activity is high as inorganic components are transformed into more water-soluble forms. As dump thermal activity shows a regional pattern, it follows also that elemental and ion concentrations in the dump waters show significant regional differences. In temporary reservoirs, concentrations of ions and major and trace elements are much lower and any correlations between components less significant than in the permanent reservoirs; these reservoirs exist for too short a time for any balance between coal waste- and water components to be established.
Fabrication and performance of atmospheric plasma sprayed solid oxide fuel cells with liquid antimony anodes
Authors: Jiang Yidong , Mo Wenfei , Cao Tianyu , Shi Yixiang , Cai Ningsheng
Published: April 2021

A solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) with a liquid antimony anode (LAA) is a potential energy conversion technology for the use of impurity-containing fuels. Atmospheric plasma spraying (APS) technology has become a promising LAA-SOFC preparation method because of its economy and convenience. In this paper, button SOFCs with different cathode materials and ratios of pore former were prepared by the APS method and were operated at 750 °C. The effect of the cathode structure on the electrochemical performance of the LAA-SOFCs was analyzed, and an optimized spraying method for LAA-SOFCs was developed. A tubular LAA-SOFC was prepared using the APS method based on the optimized spraying method, and a peak power of 2.5 W was reached. The tubular cell was also measured at a constant current of 2 A for 20 h and was fed with a sulfur-containing fuel to demonstrate its impurity resistance and electrode stability.
Synergistic Interfacial and Doping Engineering of Heterostructured NiCo(OH)x-CoyW as an Efficient Alkaline Hydrogen Evolution Electrocatalyst
Authors: Li Ruopeng , Xu Hao , Yang Peixia , Wang Dan , Li Yun , Xiao Lihui , Lu Xiangyu , Wang Bo , Zhang Jinqiu , An Maozhong
Published: May 2021

To achieve high efficiency of water electrolysis to produce hydrogen (H2), developing non-noble metal-based catalysts with considerable performance have been considered as a crucial strategy, which is correlated with both the interphase properties and multi-metal synergistic effects. Herein, as a proof of concept, a delicate NiCo(OH)x-CoyW catalyst with a bush-like heterostructure was realized via gas-template-assisted electrodeposition, followed by an electrochemical etching-growth process, which ensured a high active area and fast gas release kinetics for a superior hydrogen evolution reaction, with an overpotential of 21 and 139 mV at 10 and 500 mA cm−2, respectively. Physical and electrochemical analyses demonstrated that the synergistic effect of the NiCo(OH)x/CoyW heterogeneous interface resulted in favorable electron redistribution and faster electron transfer efficiency. The amorphous NiCo(OH)x strengthened the water dissociation step, and metal phase of CoW provided sufficient sites for moderate H immediate adsorption/H2 desorption. In addition, NiCo(OH)x-CoyW exhibited desirable urea oxidation reaction activity for matching H2 generation with a low voltage of 1.51 V at 50 mA cm−2. More importantly, the synthesis and testing of the NiCo(OH)x-CoyW catalyst in this study were all solar-powered, suggesting a promising environmentally friendly process for practical applications.
Temporal Relations at the Sentence and Text Genre Level: The Role of Linguistic Cueing and Non-linguistic Biases—An Annotation Study of a Bilingual Corpus
Authors: Grisot Cristina , Blochowiak Joanna
Published: April 2021

This study investigates the role of non-linguistic biases in the obligatory (verb tenses) and optional (discourse connectives) linguistic marking for inferring temporal relations at the sentence and the text genre levels. Specifically, we formulated and tested several assumptions: (1) thelinguistic cueing assumption(verb tenses inform language users about the temporal relation), (2) theimplicitness assumption(highly expected relations need not be overtly marked), (3) thespecialized connectiveassumption (specialized connectives are more efficient than underspecified ones), (4) thetext genre assumption(language users’ expectations of temporal relations are linked to the text genre), and (5) thetext status assumption(information in translated texts tends to be more explicit than in original texts). We carried out an annotation study of a bilingual corpus (French–English) belonging to two different text genres: literary and journalistic. Our results challenge theimplicitnessand thetext statusassumptions while confirming thelinguistic cueingand thetext genreassumptions. So, we put forth an alternative view, according to which language users have equal expectations about all three types of temporal relations and are oriented to one relation or the other by linguistic cueing (obligatory and optional marking) as well as text genre.
Long term results of surgical treatment of anal fistula in a case series of 483 patients
Authors: Burney Richard E.
Published: May 2021

ABSTRACT

Background:

Anal fistula is a common condition with a wide variety of clinical presentations, which make evaluation and treatment challenging and patient outcomes uncertain. This study describes lessons learned in the surgical treatment of 483 patients over a 20-period that led to a logical, pragmatic, effective approach to treating this condition.

Materials and methods:

This is a retrospective, observational study of consecutive patients managed by a single surgeon at a tertiary medical center from 1996 through 2018. Age and gender, comorbidities, location of internal and external openings, sphincter length, initial and subsequent surgical treatments, number of operations performed, and final outcomes were recorded. Patients with inflammatory bowel disease and obstetrical injury were analyzed separately.

Results:

Data for analysis were available on 483 patients; 44 had inflammatory bowel disease; 22 had prior obstetrical injury. Among the 419 patients with neither IBD nor birth injury, men predominated (66% vs 34%); 80% had prior abscesses. A variety of surgical procedures were done, tailored to the specific characteristics of the patient. Digital measurement of sphincter length was the most important element of pre-operative evaluation to determine whether a simple fistulotomy, a sphincter saving procedure, or a series of staged procedures was needed. 97% of patients with non-complex fistulas healed after relatively simple procedures. The 18% with complex fistulas and those with recurrent fistulas needed up to 4 operations before healing was achieved. Fistulas healed in about half the patients with IBD and in 80% or women with prior obstetrical injury.

Conclusion:

Measurement of sphincter length along with careful evaluation of anatomy and etiology enable a tailored, successful approach to treatment of anal fistula. Surgeons should be familiar with a variety of surgical approaches so that treatment can be designed based on the specific anatomic and physiologic characteristics of individual patients.

Highlights
Editorial
Authors: Barrett Steve
Published: April 2021

Mobile applications beyond road vehicles represent a significant number of news items in this issue, including off-road vehicles, trams and trains, aircraft, and marine vessels.