bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Explainable AI for ML jet taggers using expert variables and layerwise relevance propagation
Authors: Agarwal Garvita , Hay Lauren , Iashvili Ia , Mannix Benjamin , McLean Christine , Morris Margaret , Rappoccio Salvatore , Schubert Ulrich
Published: May 2021

Abstract

A framework is presented to extract and understand decision-making information from a deep neural network (DNN) classifier of jet substructure tagging techniques. The general method studied is to provide expert variables that augment inputs (“eXpert AUGmented” variables, or XAUG variables), then apply layerwise relevance propagation (LRP) to networks both with and without XAUG variables. The XAUG variables are concatenated with the intermediate layers after network-specific operations (such as convolution or recurrence), and used in the final layers of the network. The results of comparing networks with and without the addition of XAUG variables show that XAUG variables can be used to interpret classifier behavior, increase discrimination ability when combined with low-level features, and in some cases capture the behavior of the classifier completely. The LRP technique can be used to find relevant information the network is using, and when combined with the XAUG variables, can be used to rank features, allowing one to find a reduced set of features that capture part of the network performance. In the studies presented, adding XAUG variables to low-level DNNs increased the efficiency of classifiers by as much as 30-40%. In addition to performance improvements, an approach to quantify numerical uncertainties in the training of these DNNs is presented.
Mixed EW-QCD two-loop amplitudes for $$ q\overline{q}\to {\mathrm{\ell}}^{+}{\mathrm{\ell}}^{-} $$ and γ5 scheme independence of multi-loop corrections
Authors: Heller Matthias , von Manteuffel Andreas , Schabinger Robert M. , Spiesberger Hubert
Published: May 2021

Abstract

We perform a dedicated study of the $$ q\overline{q} $$
q

q
¯

-initiated two-loop electroweak-QCD Drell-Yan scattering amplitude in dimensional regularization schemes for vanishing light quark and lepton masses. For the relative order α and αs one-loop Standard Model corrections, details of our comparison to the original literature are given. The infrared pole terms of the mixed two-loop amplitude are governed by a known generalization of the dipole formula and we show explicitly that exactly the same two-loop polarized hard scattering functions are obtained in both the standard ’t Hooft-Veltman-Breitenlohner-Maison γ5 scheme and Kreimer’s anticommuting γ5 scheme.
Controlled fermion mixing and FCNCs in a ∆(27) 3+1 Higgs Doublet Model
Authors: Cárcamo Hernández A. E. , de Medeiros Varzielas Ivo , López-Ibáñez M. L. , Melis Aurora
Published: May 2021

Abstract

We propose a 3+1 Higgs Doublet Model based on the ∆(27) family symmetry supplemented by several auxiliary cyclic symmetries leading to viable Yukawa textures for the Standard Model fermions, consistent with the observed pattern of fermion masses and mixings. The charged fermion mass hierarchy and the quark mixing pattern is generated by the spontaneous breaking of the discrete symmetries due to flavons that act as Froggatt-Nielsen fields. The tiny neutrino masses arise from a radiative seesaw mechanism at one loop level, thanks to a preserved $$ {Z}_2^{(1)} $$

Z
2

1

discrete symmetry, which also leads to stable scalar and fermionic dark matter candidates. The leptonic sector features the predictive cobimaximal mixing pattern, consistent with the experimental data from neutrino oscillations. For the scenario of normal neutrino mass hierarchy, the model predicts an effective Majorana neutrino mass parameter in the range 3 meV ≲ mββ ≲ 18 meV, which is within the declared range of sensitivity of modern experiments. The model predicts Flavour Changing Neutral Currents which constrain the model, for instance, μ→e nuclear conversion processes and Kaon mixing are found to be within the reach of the forthcoming experiments.
The maximum diversity assortment selection problem
Authors: Prause Felix , Hoppmann-Baum Kai , Defourny Boris , Koch Thorsten
Published: May 2021

In this article, we introduce the Maximum Diversity Assortment Selection Problem (MDASP), which is a generalization of the two-dimensional Knapsack Problem (2D-KP). Given a set of rectangles and a rectangular container, the goal of 2D-KP is to determine a subset of rectangles that can be placed in the container without overlapping, i.e., a feasible assortment, such that a maximum area is covered. MDASP is to determine a set of feasible assortments, each of them covering a certain minimum threshold of the container, such that the diversity among them is maximized. Thereby, diversity is defined as the minimum or average normalized Hamming distance of all assortment pairs. MDASP was the topic of the 11th AIMMS-MOPTA Competition in 2019. The methods described in this article and the resulting computational results won the contest. In the following, we give a definition of the problem, introduce a mathematical model and solution approaches, determine upper bounds on the diversity, and conclude with computational experiments conducted on test instances derived from the 2D-KP literature.
Digitization and the evolution of money as a social technology of account
Authors: Peneder Michael
Published: May 2021

Throughout the history of monetary thought, economists have predominantly emphasised the function of money as a medium of exchange along with the intrinsic properties that enhance its salability and credibility as the most liquid store of value. But the social institution of money co-evolves with technology. It is significant that the advent of digital crypto-currencies was initiated by computer scientists and has taken economists completely by surprise. As a consequence, it also forces our profession to rethink the basic phenomenology of money. In accordance with the views of Wieser and Schumpeter, digitization brings to the fore the immaterial function of money as a standard of value and social technology of account, which increasingly absorbs its function as a medium of exchange. The potential impact of this on economic policy is huge. The variety of different crypto coins has proven the technical feasibility of competing private currencies as proposed by Hayek. In the long term, however, there is reason to doubt the persistence of intense competition. One must fear that major digital platforms will extend their current dominance in multisided virtual market places to include digital payments and money. Central banks are increasingly anxious to preserve public sovereignty over the common unit of account and are considering issuing their own digital fiat money. After the current era of intense creative experimentation, the potentially new spontaneous order of private crypto-currencies is likely to be supplanted by central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), the design of which will depend on deliberate public choices and policies.
The in vitro assessment of the toxicity of volatile, oxidisable, redox-cycling compounds: phenols as an example
Authors: Tolosa Laia , Martínez-Sena Teresa , Schimming Johannes P. , Moro Erika , Escher Sylvia E. , ter Braak Bas , van der Water Bob , Miranda M. A. , van Vugt-Lussenburg Barbara M. A. , Castell José V.
Published: May 2021

Phenols are regarded as highly toxic chemicals. Their effects are difficult to study in in vitro systems because of their ambiguous fate (degradation, auto-oxidation and volatility). In the course of in vitro studies of a series of redox-cycling phenols, we found evidences of cross-contamination in several in vitro high-throughput test systems, in particular by trimethylbenzene-1, 4-diol/trimethylhydroquinone (TMHQ) and 2,6-di-tertbutyl-4-ethylphenol (DTBEP), and investigated in detail the physicochemical basis for such phenomenon and how to prevent it. TMHQ has fast degradation kinetics followed by significant diffusion rates of the resulting quinone to adjacent wells, other degradation products being able to air-diffuse as well. DTBEP showed lower degradation kinetics, but a higher diffusion rate. In both cases the in vitro toxicity was underestimated because of a decrease in concentration, in addition to cross-contamination to neighbouring wells. We identified four degradation products for TMHQ and five for DTBEP indicating that the current effects measured on cells are not only attributable to the parent phenolic compound. To overcome these drawbacks, we investigated in detail the physicochemical changes occurring in the course of the incubation and made use of gas-permeable and non-permeable plastic seals to prevent it. Diffusion was greatly prevented by the use of both plastic seals, as revealed by GC–MS analysis. Gas non-permeable plastic seals, reduced to a minimum compounds diffusion as well oxidation and did not affect the biological performance of cultured cells. Hence, no toxicological cross-contamination was observed in neighbouring wells, thus allowing a more reliable in vitro assessment of phenol-induced toxicity.
Bonding in M(NHBMe)2 and M[Mn(CO)5]2 complexes (M=Zn, Cd, Hg; NHBMe=(HCNMe)2B): divalent group 12 metals with zero oxidation state
Authors: Pan Sudip , Zhao Lili , Frenking Gernot
Published: May 2021

Quantum chemical studies using density functional theory were carried out on M(NHBMe)2and M[Mn(CO)5]2(M=Zn, Cd, Hg) complexes. The calculations suggest that M(NHBMe)2and M[Mn(CO)5]2haveD2dandD4dsymmetry, respectively, with a1A1electronic ground state. The bond dissociation energies of the ligands have the order of Zn > Cd > Hg. A thorough bonding analysis using charge and energy decomposition methods suggests that the title complexes are best represented as NHBMe⇆M0⇄NHBMeand Mn(CO)5⇆M0⇄Mn(CO)5where the metal atom M in the electronic ground state with an ns2electron configuration is bonded to the (NHBMe)2and [Mn(CO)5]2ligands through donor–acceptor interaction. These experimentally known complexes are the first examples of mononuclear complexes with divalent group 12 metals with zero oxidation state that are stable at ambient condition. These complexes represent the rare situation where the ligands act as a strong acceptor and the metal center acts as strong donor. The relativistic effect of Hg leads to a weaker electron donating strength of the 6sorbital, which explains the trend of the bond dissociation energy.
Dietary analysis of two sympatric marine turtle species in the eastern Mediterranean
Authors: Palmer Josie L. , Beton Damla , Çiçek Burak A. , Davey Sophie , Duncan Emily M. , Fuller Wayne J. , Godley Brendan J. , Haywood Julia C. , Hüseyinoğlu Mehmet F. , Omeyer Lucy C. M. , Schneider M. Jesse , Snape Robin T. E. , Broderick Annette C.
Published: May 2021

Dietary studies provide key insights into threats and changes within ecosystems and subsequent impacts on focal species. Diet is particularly challenging to study within marine environments and therefore is often poorly understood. Here, we examined the diet of stranded and bycaught loggerhead (Caretta caretta) and green turtles (Chelonia mydas) in North Cyprus (35.33° N, 33.47° E) between 2011 and 2019. A total of 129 taxa were recorded in the diet of loggerhead turtles (n = 45), which were predominantly carnivorous (on average 72.1% of dietary biomass), foraging on a large variety of invertebrates, macroalgae, seagrasses and bony fish in low frequencies. Despite this opportunistic foraging strategy, one species was particularly dominant, the sponge Chondrosia reniformis (21.5%). Consumption of this sponge decreased with increasing turtle size. A greater degree of herbivory was found in green turtles (n = 40) which predominantly consumed seagrasses and macroalgae (88.8%) with a total of 101 taxa recorded. The most dominant species was a Lessepsian invasive seagrass, Halophila stipulacea (31.1%). This is the highest percentage recorded for this species in green turtle diet in the Mediterranean thus far. With increasing turtle size, the percentage of seagrass consumed increased with a concomitant decrease in macroalgae. Seagrass was consumed year-round. Omnivory occurred in all green turtle size classes but reduced in larger turtles (> 75 cm CCL) suggesting a slow ontogenetic dietary shift. Macroplastic ingestion was more common in green (31.6% of individuals) than loggerhead turtles (5.7%). This study provides the most complete dietary list for marine turtles in the eastern Mediterranean.
The Click-On gamma probe, a second-generation tethered robotic gamma probe that improves dexterity and surgical decision-making
Authors: Azargoshasb Samaneh , van Alphen Simon , Slof Leon J. , Rosiello Giuseppe , Puliatti Stefano , van Leeuwen Sven I. , Houwing Krijn M. , Boonekamp Michael , Verhart Jeroen , Dell’Oglio Paolo , van der Hage Jos , van Oosterom Matthias N. , van Leeuwen Fijs W. B.
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Decision-making and dexterity, features that become increasingly relevant in (robot-assisted) minimally invasive surgery, are considered key components in improving the surgical accuracy. Recently, DROP-IN gamma probes were introduced to facilitate radioguided robotic surgery. We now studied if robotic DROP-IN radioguidance can be further improved using tethered Click-On designs that integrate gamma detection onto the robotic instruments themselves.

Methods

Using computer-assisted drawing software, 3D printing and precision machining, we created a Click-On probe containing two press-fit connections and an additional grasping moiety for a ProGrasp instrument combined with fiducials that could be video tracked using the Firefly laparoscope. Using a dexterity phantom, the duration of the specific tasks and the path traveled could be compared between use of the Click-On or DROP-IN probe. To study the impact on surgical decision-making, we performed a blinded study, in porcine models, wherein surgeons had to identify a hidden 57Co-source using either palpation or Click-On radioguidance.

Results

When assembled onto a ProGrasp instrument, while preserving grasping function and rotational freedom, the fully functional prototype could be inserted through a 12-mm trocar. In dexterity assessments, the Click-On provided a 40% reduction in movements compared to the DROP-IN, which converted into a reduction in time, path length, and increase in straightness index. Radioguidance also improved decision-making; task-completion rate increased by 60%, procedural time was reduced, and movements became more focused.

Conclusion

The Click-On gamma probe provides a step toward full integration of radioguidance in minimal invasive surgery. The value of this concept was underlined by its impact on surgical dexterity and decision-making.
The anatomical variant of high soleus muscle may predispose to tendinopathy: a preliminary MR study
Authors: Drakonaki Eleni E. , Gataa Khaldun Ghali , Szaro Pawel
Published: May 2021

Purpose

This study aimed to examine the anatomic variations at the level of the distal soleus musculotendinous junction and the possible association between the length of the free tendon and the development of symptomatic Achilles tendinopathy.

Methods

We retrospectively assessed 72 ankle MRI studies with findings of Achilles tendinopathy (study group, 26 females/46 males, mean age 52.6 ± 10.5 years, 30 right/42 left) and 72 ankle MRI studies with normal Achilles tendon (control group, 32 females/40 males, mean age 35.7 ± 13.7 years, 42 right/30 left side). We measured the distance from the lowest outline of the soleus myotendinous junction to the proximal outline of the Achilles tendon insertion (length of the free tendon, diameter a) and to the distal outline of the insertion (distance B). We also measured the maximum thickness of the free tendon (diameter c) and the distance between the levels of maximum thickness to the proximal outline of the Achilles tendon insertion (distance D). All measurements were assessed twice. Statistical analysis was performed using independentttest.

Results

Distances A and B were significantly larger in tendinopathic tendons (59.7 and 83.4 mm, respectively) than normal Achilles tendons (38.5 and 60.8 mm, respectively) (p = 0.001). Mean distance C was larger in tendinopathic than normal tendons (11.2 versus 4.9 mm). Distances C and D were significantly larger in males than females. There was no significant difference in the measurements between sides.

Conclusion

There is wide anatomical variation in the length of the free Achilles tendon. Tendinopathy may be associated with the thicker free part of the Achilles tendon. The anatomical variant of the high soleus musculotendinous junction resulting in a longer free Achilles tendon may be a predisposing factor to the development of tendinopathy.
Microscale solute flow probed with rotating microbead trapped in optical vortex
Authors: Lamperska Weronika , Masajada Jan , Drobczyński Sławomir
Published: May 2021

The dynamics of solute flow in the microscopic chamber can be studied with optical tweezers. A method based on the metallic microbeads trapped in the focused optical vortex beam is proposed. This annular beam of a twisted wavefront exerts torque on a reflective object placed inside the dark core of the vortex. The induced rotational movement of the bead is sensitive to local viscosity changes in the surrounding medium, for example, during the ongoing dissolution process. Two experimental configurations are described, both relying on tracing the angular velocity of the bead in time. In one-bead configuration, the dynamics of local solute concentration can be studied. In two-bead case, the direction and speed of solute flow can be probed with a spatial resolution of single micrometers. We approach the elementary problem of sucrose dissolution and diffusion in water. The surprising impression of the reverse solute flow was observed. Further experimental investigation led to the discovery that this phenomenon originates from the sucrose stream-like diffusion in the mid-depth of the measurement chamber. The rotating microbead method applies for various solid and liquid substances and may become a useful technique for microfluidics research.

Graphic abstract
European progress in working towards a tobacco-free generation
Authors: Been Jasper V. , Laverty Anthony A. , Tsampi Aikaterini , Filippidis Filippos T.
Published: May 2021

Children have the right to grow up free from the hazards associated with tobacco smoking. Tobacco smoke exposure can have detrimental effects on children’s health and development, from before birth and beyond. As a result of effective tobacco control policies, European smoking rates are steadily decreasing among adults, as is the proportion of adolescents taking up smoking. Substantial variation however exists between countries, both in terms of smoking rates and regarding implementation, comprehensiveness and enforcement of policies to address smoking and second-hand smoke exposure. This is important because comprehensive tobacco control policies such as smoke-free legislation and tobacco taxation have extensively been shown to carry clear health benefits for both adults and children. Additional policies such as increasing the legal age to buy tobacco, reducing the number of outlets selling tobacco, banning tobacco display and advertising at the point-of-sale, and introducing plain packaging for tobacco products can help reduce smoking initiation by youth. At societal level, health professionals can play an important role in advocating for stronger policy measures, whereas they also clearly have a duty to address smoking and tobacco smoke exposure at the patient level. This includes providing cessation advise and referring to effective cessation services.

Conclusion: Framing of tobacco exposure as a child right’s issue and of comprehensive tobacco control as a tool to work towards the ultimate goal of reaching a tobacco-free generation can help accelerate European progress to curb the tobacco epidemic.

What is Known:• Tobacco exposure is associated with a range of adverse health effects among babies and children.• Comprehensive tobacco control policies helped bring down smoking rates in Europe and benefit child health.

What is New:• Protecting the rights and health of children provides a strong starting point for tobacco control advocacy.• The tobacco-free generation concept helps policy-makers set clear goals for protecting future generations from tobacco-associated harms.
Evolution of laparoscopic liver surgery: 20-year experience of a Norwegian high-volume referral center
Authors: Aghayan Davit L. , Kazaryan Airazat M. , Fretland Åsmund Avdem , Røsok Bård , Barkhatov Leonid , Lassen Kristoffer , Edwin Bjørn
Published: May 2021

Background

Laparoscopic liver surgery has evolved to become a standard surgical approach in many specialized centers worldwide. In this study we present the evolution of laparoscopic liver surgery at a single high-volume referral center since its introduction in 1998.

Methods

Patients who underwent laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) between August 1998 and December 2018 at the Oslo University Hospital were analyzed. Perioperative outcomes were compared between three time periods: early (1998 to 2004), middle (2005 to 2012) and recent (2013–2018).

Results

Up to December 2020, 1533 LLRs have been performed. A total of 1232 procedures were examined (early period, n = 62; middle period, n = 367 and recent period, n = 803). Colorectal liver metastasis was the main indication for surgery (68%). The rates of conversion to laparotomy and hand-assisted laparoscopy were 3.2% and 1.4%. The median operative time and blood loss were 130 min [interquartile range (IQR), 85–190] and 220 ml (IQR, 50–600), respectively. The total postoperative complications rate was 20.3% and the 30-day mortality was 0.3%. The median postoperative stay was two (IQR, 2–4) days.

When comparing perioperative outcomes between the three time periods, shorter operation time (median, from 182 to 120 min, p < 0.001), less blood loss (median, from 550 to 200 ml, p = 0.023), decreased rate of conversions to laparotomy (from 8 to 3%) and shorter postoperative hospital stay (median, from 3 to 2 days, p < 0.001) was observed in the later periods, while the number of more complex liver resections had increased.

Conclusion

During the last two decades, the indications, the number of patients and the complexity of laparoscopic liver procedures have expanded significantly. Initially being an experimental approach, laparoscopic liver surgery is now safely implemented across our unit and has become the method of choice for surgical treatment of most liver tumors.
Oral steroids for reducing kidney scarring in young children with febrile urinary tract infections: the contribution of Bayesian analysis to a randomized trial not reaching its intended sample size
Authors: Da Dalt Liviana , Bressan Silvia , Scozzola Floriana , Vidal Enrico , Gennari Monia , La Scola Claudio , Anselmi Mauro , Miorin Elisabetta , Zucchetta Pietro , Azzolina Danila , Gregori Dario , Montini Giovanni
Published: May 2021

Background

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of oral dexamethasone in reducing kidney scars in infants with a first febrile urinary tract infection (UTI).

Methods

Children aged between 2 and 24 months with their first presumed UTI, at high risk for kidney scarring based on procalcitonin levels (≥1 ng/mL), were randomly assigned to receive dexamethasone in addition to routine care or routine care only. Kidney scars were identified by kidney scan at 6 months after initial UTI. Projections of enrollment and follow-up completion showed that the intended sample size could not be reached before funding and time to complete the study ran out. An amendment to the protocol was approved to conduct a Bayesian analysis.

Results

We randomized 48 children, of whom 42 had a UTI and 18 had outcome kidney scans (instead of 128 planned). Kidney scars were found in 0/7 and 2/11 patients in the treatment and control groups respectively. The probability that dexamethasone could prevent kidney scarring was 99% in the setting of an informative prior probability distribution (which fully incorporated in the final inference the information on treatment effect provided by previous studies) and 98% in the low-informative scenario (which discounted the prior literature information by 50%). The probabilities that dexamethasone could reduce kidney scar formation by up to 20% were 61% and 53% in the informative and low-informative scenario, respectively.

Conclusions

Dexamethasone is highly likely to reduce kidney scarring, with a more than 50% probability to reduce kidney scars by up to 20%.

Trial registration number

EudraCT number: 2013-000388-10; registered in 2013 (prospectively registered)

Graphical Abstract
Do statins reduce the rate of revision surgery after chronic subdural hematoma drain?
Authors: Klein Johann , Mauck Lisa , Schackert Gabriele , Pinzer Thomas
Published: May 2021

Background

With chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH), surgery is the therapeutic mainstay for large or symptomatic cases. Statins are reported to be effective as the primary therapy of CSDH to obviate the need for surgery. However, the effect of statins on the postoperative course of CSDH is largely unclear. We therefore sought to determine whether statins reduce the rate of repeat surgery after CSDH drain.

Methods

We performed an analysis of all patients who underwent surgery for CSDH at our institution between 2012 and 2018. The patients were separated into those who received statins as part of their previous medication (statin group) and those who did not (control group). The medical records were reviewed for repeat surgeries and complications. Additionally, patients or their relatives were contacted via phone to obtain missing data and inquire about possible repeat surgeries at other institutions.

Results

We identified 407 patients who received CSDH evacuation via burr hole craniotomy. In total, 123 patients were treated with statins as part of their daily medication. Repeat surgery was performed in 26 patients in the statin group (21.1%) and 57 patients in the non-statin group (20.1%, p = 0.81). Upon multivariate logistic regression analysis, neither of the variables statins, age, antithrombotic medication, Charlson comorbidity index, or Markwalder grading score yielded a statistically significant effect upon the revision rate.

Conclusions

We found no evidence for the protective effect of statins in patients who underwent surgery for CSDH. We thus conclude that statin therapy is not warranted for CSDH perioperatively.
Influence of the Dabcyl group on the cellular uptake of cationic peptides: short oligoarginines as efficient cell-penetrating peptides
Authors: Szabó Ildikó , Illien Françoise , Dókus Levente E. , Yousef Mo’ath , Baranyai Zsuzsa , Bősze Szilvia , Ise Shoko , Kawano Kenichi , Sagan Sandrine , Futaki Shiroh , Hudecz Ferenc , Bánóczi Zoltán
Published: May 2021

Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) are promising delivery vehicles. These short peptides can transport wide range of cargos into cells, although their usage has often limitations. One of them is the endosomatic internalisation and thus the vesicular entrapment. Modifications which increases the direct delivery into the cytosol is highly researched area. Among the oligoarginines the longer ones (n > 6) show efficient internalisation and they are well-known members of CPPs. Herein, we describe the modification of tetra- and hexaarginine with (4–((4–(dimethylamino)phenyl)azo)benzoyl) (Dabcyl) group. This chromophore, which is often used in FRET system increased the internalisation of both peptides, and its effect was more outstanding in case of hexaarginine. The modified hexaarginine may enter into cells more effectively than octaarginine, and showed diffuse distribution besides vesicular transport already at low concentration. The attachment of Dabcyl group not only increases the cellular uptake of the cell-penetrating peptides but it may affect the mechanism of their internalisation. Their conjugates with antitumor drugs were studied on different cells and showed antitumor activity.
Total cow’s milk protein in cookies: the first interlaboratory comparison with a well-defined measurand fit for food allergen risk assessment
Authors: Cordeiro Fernando , Cubero-Leon Elena , Nørgaard Jørgen , Martinez-Esteso Maria José , Brohée Marcel , Breidbach Andreas , Cizek-Stroh Aneta , O’Connor Gavin , Robouch Piotr , Emons Hendrik
Published: May 2021

A feasibility interlaboratory comparison (ILC) was organised by the European Commission’s (EC) Joint Research Centre (JRC) on the determination of the mass fraction of total cow’s milk protein in baked cookies. The ILC was organised to support Commission Regulation (EU) 1169/2011 on the provision of food information to consumers, including the mandatory allergen food labelling and the harmonisation of measurement procedures used for food allergen analysis. An incurred baked cookie was prepared at the JRC and samples were sent to participants for analysis. The laboratories were asked to report their results as “mass fraction of total cow’s milk protein in baked cookies”. This common well-defined measurand was used for the first time in such an ILC to assess the equivalence of measurement results. Homogeneity and stability of the test material were demonstrated to be adequate. An indicative assigned value was established using the JRC single-laboratory validated method based on liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (LC–MS), independently from the results reported by the participants. Twenty-three laboratories from the European Network of Food Allergen Detection Laboratories (ENFADL), representing 20 European Union (EU) Member States, reported results. Their laboratory performance was assessed using the percent difference Di score. The participating laboratories applied either enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) or LC–MS. Even though the majority of the laboratories used commercially available ELISA test kits, a significant scatter of all the reported results was observed. This indicates that further harmonisation is required for measurement procedures aiming to determine potentially allergenic constituents in food.
Changing Knowledge and Attitudes Towards HIV Treatment-as-Prevention and “Undetectable = Untransmittable”: A Systematic Review
Authors: Bor Jacob , Fischer Charlie , Modi Mirva , Richman Bruce , Kinker Cameron , King Rachel , Calabrese Sarah K. , Mokhele Idah , Sineke Tembeka , Zuma Thembelihle , Rosen Sydney , Bärnighausen Till , Mayer Kenneth H. , Onoya Dorina
Published: May 2021

People on HIV treatment with undetectable virus cannot transmit HIV sexually (Undetectable = Untransmittable, U = U). However, the science of treatment-as-prevention (TasP) may not be widely understood by people with and without HIV who could benefit from this information. We systematically reviewed the global literature on knowledge and attitudes related to TasP and interventions providing TasP or U = U information. We included studies of providers, patients, and communities from all regions of the world, published 2008–2020. We screened 885 papers and abstracts and identified 72 for inclusion. Studies in high-income settings reported high awareness of TasP but gaps in knowledge about the likelihood of transmission with undetectable HIV. Greater knowledge was associated with more positive attitudes towards TasP. Extant literature shows low awareness of TasP in Africa where 2 in 3 people with HIV live. The emerging evidence on interventions delivering information on TasP suggests beneficial impacts on knowledge, stigma, HIV testing, and viral suppression.

Review was pre-registered at PROSPERO: CRD42020153725
How to present the analysis of qualitative data within interdisciplinary studies for readers in the life and natural sciences
Authors: Casimir Gerda , Tobi Hilde , Tamás Peter Andrew
Published: May 2021

Research that addresses complex challenges often requires contributions from the social, life and natural sciences. The disciplines that contribute subject response data, and more specifically qualitative analyses of subject response data, to interdisciplinary studies are characterised by low consensus with respect to methods they use a diversity of terms to describe those methods and they often work from assumptions that are foreign to readers in the natural and life sciences. The first contribution this paper makes is to demonstrate that the forms of reporting that may be adequate for communicating quantitative analysis do not provide teams that include members from natural, life and social sciences with useful accounts of qualitative analysis. Our second contribution is to discuss and model how to report four methods appropriate for qualitative contributions to interdisciplinary projects.
Does patenting always help new firm survival? Understanding heterogeneity among exit routes
Authors: Kato Masatoshi , Onishi Koichiro , Honjo Yuji
Published: May 2021

While patents are a valuable resource ensuring the competitive advantage of firms, there is limited evidence on the role of patents in the survival and exit strategies of new firms. To fill the gap in the literature, we examine whether the effects of patenting on new firm survival vary according to exit routes (bankruptcy, merger, and voluntary liquidation), while considering the endogeneity of patenting. We use a large-scale sample of new firms in the Japanese manufacturing and information services sectors for the period 2003–2013. The findings indicate that new firms with a higher stock of patents are less likely to go bankrupt. Conversely, new firms with a higher stock of patents are more likely to exit via merger. These findings are consistent, regardless of whether patent stock is measured based on the patent applications or granted patents. Furthermore, we provide evidence that new firms with a higher stock of granted patents are more likely to voluntarily liquidate their businesses.

Plain English Summary

Can new firms enjoy a “patent premium” in terms of survival and exit outcomes? The findings of this study indicate that (1) patenting reduces the risk of bankruptcy, and (2) it increases the odds of exit via merger and voluntary liquidation. On the one hand, patenting ensures that new firms obtain competitive advantages, and thus, survive in the product market. On the other hand, it enables new firms to pursue successful exit strategies in the markets for ideas. This study concludes that new firms can enjoy a patent premium in terms of survival and exit outcomes. In promoting sustainable economic growth via entrepreneurship, policymakers need to shift their focus from creating more firms to creating innovative firms.
Betriebliches Gesundheitsmanagement – Analyse akademischer Ausbildungskonzepte in Deutschland
Authors: Wedel S. , Nöfer E. , Schütz A.
Published: May 2021

Hintergrund

Die akademischen Ausbildungsangebote zu den Themen betriebliches Gesundheitsmanagement (BGM) und betriebliche Gesundheitsförderung (BGF) sind vielfältig. Bislang gibt es keine genaue Übersicht darüber, welche Studiengänge in Deutschland als späteres Berufsfeld explizit BGM oder BGF nennen und welche Lerninhalte sie vermitteln.

Ziel der Arbeit

Ziel dieser Arbeit war die Analyse der akademischen Ausbildungskonzepte zum BGM. Studiengänge, die explizit auf das spätere Betätigungsfeld BGM/BGF abzielen, wurden recherchiert und ihre Lerninhalte analysiert.

Material und Methoden

Mithilfe der Suchbegriffe „Gesundheit“ und „Health“ wurden Studiengänge identifiziert, die BGM oder BGF als berufliche Perspektive nennen. 60 entsprechende Studiengänge wurden mithilfe einer qualitativen Inhaltsanalyse hinsichtlich der Lerninhalte ausgewertet.

Ergebnisse

Die Gesundheitswissenschaften bilden mit 22 % der Lerninhalte das am häufigsten vertretene Wissenschaftsgebiet. Daneben sind Lerninhalte aus den Bereichen Wirtschaftswissenschaften (14 %), Medizin (7 %), Psychologie (7 %) und Sportwissenschaften (6 %) häufig vertreten. Weitere wichtige Elemente bilden Lerninhalte zur Förderung der Forschungskompetenz sowie Praktika. Insgesamt zeigt sich große Varianz hinsichtlich der Lerninhalte.

Diskussion

Studiengänge unterschiedlicher Ausrichtungen (gesundheitswissenschaftlich, psychologisch und sportwissenschaftlich ausgerichtet) unterscheiden sich hinsichtlich ihrer Lerninhalte erheblich. Dennoch beanspruchen alle, die Absolvent*innen auf eine Tätigkeit im Bereich BGM/BGF vorzubereiten. Obwohl Arbeitsschutz und betriebliches Eingliederungsmanagement (BEM) laut Literatur wesentliche Säulen des BGM sind, spiegeln sich diese Themen kaum in den Lerninhalten der Studiengänge wieder.
Development trend of urban design in “digital age”: Pan-dimensionality and individual-ubiquity
Authors: Wang Jianguo
Published: May 2021

The wave of “digital age” featuring digital information is coming. Digital technology is profoundly changing the societal development direction and evolution paths. It also has significant bearing on production modes, social interactions and lifestyles. With regard to urban design, a system of knowledge about the creation and adaptation of material space forms that integrate humanities, art, technology and materials, digital technology has provided it with a brand-new and revolutionary scientific impetus for its evolution. The result of this evolution is “digital urban design paradigm based on human-computer interaction”, i.e., the urban development is moving toward “pan-dimensionality” and “individual ubiquity”. The future of urban design will construct a new approach to urban research and engineering, which is more complex, capable of accommodating and compatible with multiple goals of “instrumental rationality” and “value rationality”. Such a new approach shall be led by the probabilistic theory of “gray scale thinking”, reflecting quaternary synergetic view of “scientific rationality, ecological rationality, cultural rationality and technical rationality” to realize the cognitive progress of “engineering for the benefit of mankind”.
CO2 emissions and energy technologies in Western Europe
Authors: Barrera-Santana J. , Marrero Gustavo A. , Puch Luis A. , Díaz Antonia
Published: May 2021

In this paper, we investigate the path to the green transition in Europe. In so doing, we implement an empirical model of dynamic panel data on a sample of sixteen Western European countries over the period 1980 to 2019. The model is consistent with various features of neoclassical growth theory incorporating energy use. Our focus is on the short-run determinants of carbon emissions within that set of countries. We provide evidence that the relationship between economic activity and CO2 emissions is strong in economies where economic booms depend on energy-intensive sectors. Also, the mitigating role of renewable energy technologies is key when energy intensity rebounds. These circumstances may constitute a challenge for the climate transition goals targeted in the EU’s Recovery Plan, whose main objective at this very moment is to mitigate the economic and social impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
Simulation of Images and Digital Terrain Models for the Mission BepiColombo
Authors: Borin Nicolò , Re Cristina , Simioni Emanuele , Debei Stefano , Cremonese Gabriele
Published: May 2021

BepiColombo mission will provide Digital Terrain Models of the surface of Mercury by means of the stereo channel of the SIMBIO-SYS (Spectrometer and Imaging for MPO BepiColombo Integrated Observatory SYStem) imaging package onboard. The work here described presents a novel approach for the creation of higher resolution stereo products using the high-resolution channel of SIMBIO-SYS. Being the camera rigidly integrated with the spacecraft, this latter must be tilted to acquire stereo pairs necessary for the 3D reconstruction. A new method for image simulation and stereo reconstruction is presented in this work, where the input data are chosen as closely as possible to the real mission parameters. Different simulations are executed changing the illumination conditions and the stereo angles. The Digital Terrain Models obtained are evaluated and an analysis of the best acquisition conditions is performed, helping to improve the image acquisition strategy of BepiColombo mission. In addition, a strategy for the creation of a mosaic from different images acquired with the high-resolution channel of SIMBIO-SYS is explained, giving the possibility to obtain tridimensional products of extended targets.
Effects of Additional Rifle-Carriage Training on Physiological Markers and Roller-Skiing Performance in Well-Trained Biathletes
Authors: Jonsson Kårström Malin , McGawley Kerry , Laaksonen Marko S.
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The purpose was to investigate whether an increased amount of training while carrying the rifle affects skiing in well-trained biathletes at submaximal and maximal workloads during a pre-season period lasting a minimum of 12 weeks.

Methods

Seventeen well-trained biathletes (9 females, 8 males) were assigned to an intervention (IG, n = 10) or control (CG, n = 7) group. Before (T1) and after (T2) the training intervention all participants performed, using treadmill roller-skiing, a submaximal test without the rifle on one day and two submaximal workloads and a maximal time trial (TT) with the rifle on a subsequent day. Between T1 and T2 all participants performed a minimum of 12 weeks of normal training, the only difference between groups being that IG performed more of their training sessions carrying the rifle.

Results

IG performed more training compared to CG (15.4 ± 1.1 vs. 11.2 ± 2.6 h/week, P < 0.05), including a higher amount of training with the rifle (3.1 ± 0.6 vs. 1.1 ± 0.3 h/week, P < 0.001). Speed at 4 mmol/L of blood lactate increased significantly for CG from T1 to T2 (P = 0.028), while only tended to increase for IG (P = 0.058). Performance during the TT, VO2max and the aerobic metabolic rate increased significantly from T1 to T2, although the differences disappeared when including the speed at baseline as a covariate.

Conclusion

According to the present results, increasing training while carrying the rifle by 2 h/week does not appear to improve skiing performance in well-trained biathletes. In addition, physiological markers at submaximal and maximal intensities while carrying the rifle were not affected after the training intervention.
Monitoring the Performance of Alpine Skiers with Inertial Motion Units: Practical and Methodological Considerations
Authors: Supej Matej , Holmberg H-C
Published: May 2021

Although reliable feedback is crucial to improving the performance of competitive alpine skiers, the coach's eye may not be sensitive enough to detect small, but highly significant “mistakes”. Monitoring of the performance of alpine ski racers by inertial motion units (IMU) has proven to be of value in this context and here we summarize practical and methodological aspects of this approach. Methodologically, the IMUs employed should combine high sampling frequencies with minimal signal drift. The sensors should be positioned to sense the movement of the bones in a given body segment while being protected as much as possible against impact with the ski gates. The data obtained, often synchronized with input from Global Satellite Navigation Systems (GNSS), are usually refined utilizing advanced biomechanical models and other computerized approaches. In practice, the combination of inertial sensors and GNSS allows accurate monitoring of skiing kinematics (technique) and the movement of the skier’s center-of-mass, also allowing analysis of both whole-body vibrations (WBV) and loss of mechanical energy. Presentation of the findings to coaches and athletes can be facilitated by synchronizing them with video recordings. Recent advances in IMU technology, including miniaturization, wireless communication, direct storage of data in the cloud, and processing with artificial intelligence may allow these sensors, in-combination with GNSS, to become real-time virtual alpine ski coaches, perhaps the next step in the development of this sport.
Securing facial recognition: the new spoofs and solutions
Authors: Hassani Ali , Malik Hafiz
Published: May 2021

Facial recognition is becoming the go-to authentication method because it is seamless and secure: facial algorithms can now achieve one-in-a-million false acceptance rates, making the risk of unintended users gaining access extremely low. However, spoofs present a growing threat to facial recognition systems.
Creating the Desired Citizen
Authors: Yilmaz Ihsan
Published: May 2021

For decades after the declaration of the Republic of Turkey in 1923, the Turkish state promoted the idea of a desired citizen. The Kemalist state treated these citizens as superior, with full rights; but the 'others', those outside this desired citizenship, were either tolerated or considered undesirable citizens. And this caused the marginalization of ethnic and religious minorities, religious Muslims and leftists alike. In this book, Ihsan Yilmaz shows how historical traumas, victimhood, insecurities, anxieties, fears and siege mentality have negatively impacted on and radicalised the nation-building projects of the two competing hegemonic ideologies/regimes (those of Ataturk and Erdogan) and their treatment of majority and minority ethnic, religious and political groups. Yilmaz reveals the significant degree of overlap between the desired, undesired citizen and tolerated citizen categories of these two regimes, showing how both regimes aimed to create a perception of a homogenous Turkish nation.
German Women's Writing in the Twenty-First Century
Authors: Chronister Necia , Druxes Helga , Heffernan Valerie , Lawton Lindsey , Marshall Sheridan , Norman Beret , Petrescu Mihaela , Smith Jill Suzanne , Smith-Prei Carrie , Stehle Maria , Stone Katherine
Published: May 2021

What is the status of women's writing in German today, in an era when feminism has thoroughly problematized binary conceptions of sex and gender? Drawing on gender and queer theory, including the work of Lauren Berlant, Judith Butler, and Michel Foucault, the essays in this volume rethink conventional ways of conceptualizing female authorship and re-examine the formal, aesthetic, and thematic terms in which "women's literature" has been conceived. With an eye to the literary and feminist legacy of authors such as Christa Wolf and Ingeborg Bachmann, contributors treat the works of many of contemporary Germany's most significant literary voices, including Hatice Akyün, Sibylle Berg, Thea Dorn, Tanja Dückers, Karen Duve, Jenny Erpenbeck, Julia Franck, Katharina Hacker, Charlotte Roche, Julia Schoch, and Antje Rávic Strubel -- authors who, through their writing or their role in the media, engage with questions of what it means to be a woman writer in twenty-first-century Germany. Contributors: Hester Baer, Necia Chronister, Helga Druxes, Valerie Heffernan, Alexandra Merley Hill, Lindsey Lawton, Sheridan Marshall, Beret Norman, Mihaela Petrescu, Jill Suzanne Smith, Carrie Smith-Prei, Maria Stehle, Katherine Stone. Hester Baer is Associate Professor of Germanic Studies at the University of Maryland. Alexandra Merley Hill is Assistant Professor of German at the University of Portland.
Topological weak mixing and diffusion at all times for a class of Hamiltonian systems
Authors: FAYAD BASSAM , SAPRYKINA MARIA
Published: May 2021

We present examples of nearly integrable analytic Hamiltonian systems with several strong diffusion properties: topological weak mixing and diffusion at all times. These examples are obtained by AbC constructions with several frequencies.
Beilinson–Drinfeld Schubert varieties and global Demazure modules
Authors: Dumanski Ilya , Feigin Evgeny , Finkelberg Michael
Published: May 2021

We compute the spaces of sections of powers of the determinant line bundle on the spherical Schubert subvarieties of the Beilinson–Drinfeld affine Grassmannians. The answer is given in terms of global Demazure modules over the current Lie algebra.