bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Two-photon fluorescence lifetime for label-free microfluidic droplet sorting
Authors: Hasan Sadat , Blaha Maximilian E. , Piendl Sebastian K. , Das Anish , Geissler David , Belder Detlev 
Published: November 2021

AbstractMicrofluidic droplet sorting systems facilitate automated selective micromanipulation of compartmentalized micro- and nano-entities in a fluidic stream. Current state-of-the-art droplet sorting systems mainly rely on fluorescence detection in the visible range with the drawback that pre-labeling steps are required. This limits the application range significantly, and there is a high demand for alternative, label-free methods. Therefore, we introduce time-resolved two-photon excitation (TPE) fluorescence detection with excitation at 532 nm as a detection technique in droplet microfluidics. This enables label-free in-droplet detection of small aromatic compounds that only absorb in a deep-UV spectral region. Applying time-correlated single-photon counting, compounds with similar emission spectra can be distinguished due to their fluorescence lifetimes. This information is then used to trigger downstream dielectrophoretic droplet sorting. In this proof-of-concept study, we developed a polydimethylsiloxane-fused silica (FS) hybrid chip that simultaneously provides a very high optical transparency in the deep-UV range and suitable surface properties for droplet microfluidics. The herein developed system incorporating a 532-nm picosecond laser, time-correlated single-photon counting (TCSPC), and a chip-integrated dielectrophoretic pulsed actuator was exemplarily applied to sort droplets containing serotonin or propranolol. Furthermore, yeast cells were screened using the presented platform to show its applicability to study cells based on their protein autofluorescence via TPE fluorescence lifetime at 532 nm.
Graphical abstract
What brain abnormalities can magnetic resonance imaging detect in foetal and early neonatal spina bifida: a systematic review
Authors: Mufti Nada , Sacco Adalina , Aertsen Michael , Ushakov Fred , Ourselin Sebastian , Thomson Dominic , Deprest Jan , Melbourne Andrew , David Anna L. 
Published: November 2021

Abstract

Purpose
Open spina bifida (OSB) encompasses a wide spectrum of intracranial abnormalities. With foetal surgery as a new treatment option, robust intracranial imaging is important for comprehensive preoperative evaluation and prognostication. We aimed to determine the incidence of infratentorial and supratentorial findings detected by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) alone and MRI compared to ultrasound.

Methods
Two systematic reviews comparing MRI to ultrasound and MRI alone were conducted on MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases identifying studies of foetal OSB from 2000 to 2020. Intracranial imaging findings were analysed at ≤ 26 or > 26 weeks gestation and neonates (≤ 28 days). Data was independently extracted by two reviewers and meta-analysis was performed where possible.

Results
Thirty-six studies reported brain abnormalities detected by MRI alone in patients who previously had an ultrasound. Callosal dysgenesis was identified in 4/29 cases (2 foetuses ≤ 26 weeks, 1 foetus under any gestation, and 1 neonate ≤ 28 days) (15.1%, CI:5.7–34.3%). Heterotopia was identified in 7/40 foetuses ≤ 26 weeks (19.8%, CI:7.7–42.2%), 9/36 foetuses > 26 weeks (25.3%, CI:13.7–41.9%), and 64/250 neonates ≤ 28 days (26.9%, CI:15.3–42.8%). Additional abnormalities included aberrant cortical folding and other Chiari II malformation findings such as lower cervicomedullary kink level, tectal beaking, and hypoplastic tentorium. Eight studies compared MRI directly to ultrasound, but due to reporting inconsistencies, it was not possible to meta-analyse.

Conclusion
MRI is able to detect anomalies hitherto underestimated in foetal OSB which may be important for case selection. In view of increasing prenatal OSB surgery, further studies are required to assess developmental consequences of these findings.
Long-term data of the new transcutaneous partially implantable bone conduction hearing system Osia®
Authors: Rauch Ann-Kathrin , Wesarg Thomas , Aschendorff Antje , Speck Iva , Arndt Susan 
Published: November 2021

Abstract
Purpose
The new active transcutaneous partially implantable osseointegrated system Cochlear™ Osia® System is indicated in case of conductive or mixed hearing loss (CHL/MHL) with a maximum average bone conduction hearing loss of 55 dB, or in single-sided deafness (SSD). The implant directly stimulates the bone via a piezoelectric transducer and is directed by an external sound processor. We conducted a monocentric retrospective longitudinal within-subject clinical study at our tertiary academic referral center. The aim was to investigate long-term data (2017–2021) on audiological outcomes and hearing-related quality of life for the Osia system.

Methods
Between 2017 and 2020, 22 adults (18: CHL/MHL; 3: SSD) were implanted with the Osia100 implant; seven received bilateral implants. As of 10/2020, the sound processor was upgraded to Osia 2.

Results
Mean Osia system use by 04/2021 was 30.9 ± 8.6 months (range 17–40 months). Unaided bone conduction thresholds were unchanged postoperatively. One patient had to be explanted because of prolonged wound infection. Aided hearing thresholds were significantly lower compared to the unaided thresholds preoperatively, along with a marked increase in speech recognition in quiet. Speech processor upgrade resulted in a stable benefit. Patients with CHL/MHL and SSD showed a similar improvement in self-rated hearing performance revealed by SSQ, APHAB, and HUI questionnaires.

Conclusion
The Osia system is a safe, effective and sustainable option for treatment of conductive and mixed hearing loss or single-sided deafness.
Genomic predictors of testosterone levels are associated with muscle fiber size and strength
Authors: Guilherme João Paulo L. F. , Semenova Ekaterina A. , Borisov Oleg V. , Larin Andrey K. , Moreland Ethan , Generozov Edward V. , Ahmetov Ildus I. 
Published: November 2021

Abstract
Purpose
Circulating testosterone levels are a heritable trait with anabolic properties in various tissues, including skeletal muscle. So far, hundreds of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with testosterone levels have been identified in nonathletic populations. The aim of the present study was to test the association of 822 testosterone-increasing SNPs with muscle-related traits (muscle fiber size, fat-free mass and handgrip strength) and to validate the identified SNPs in independent cohorts of strength and power athletes.

Methods
One hundred and forty-eight physically active individuals (47 females, 101 males) were assessed for cross-sectional area (CSA) of fast-twitch muscle fibers. Significant SNPs were further assessed for fat-free mass and handgrip strength in > 354,000 participants from the UK Biobank cohort. The validation cohorts included Russian elite athletes.

Results
From an initial panel of 822 SNPs, we identified five testosterone-increasing alleles (DOCK3 rs77031559 G, ESR1 rs190930099 G, GLIS3 rs34706136 TG, GRAMD1B rs850294 T, TRAIP rs62260729 C) nominally associated (P < 0.05) with CSA of fast-twitch muscle fibers, fat-free mass and handgrip strength. Based on these five SNPs, the number of testosterone-increasing alleles was positively associated with testosterone levels in male athletes (P = 0.048) and greater strength performance in weightlifters (P = 0.017). Moreover, the proportion of participants with ≥ 2 testosterone-increasing alleles was higher in power athletes compared to controls (68.9 vs. 55.6%; P = 0.012).

Conclusion
Testosterone-related SNPs are associated with muscle fiber size, fat-free mass and strength, which combined can partially contribute to a greater predisposition to strength/power sports.
Learning Diagonal Gaussian Mixture Models and Incomplete Tensor Decompositions
Authors: Guo Bingni , Nie Jiawang , Yang Zi 
Published: November 2021

AbstractThis paper studies how to learn parameters in diagonal Gaussian mixture models. The problem can be formulated as computing incomplete symmetric tensor decompositions. We use generating polynomials to compute incomplete symmetric tensor decompositions and approximations. Then the tensor approximation method is used to learn diagonal Gaussian mixture models. We also do the stability analysis. When the first and third order moments are sufficiently accurate, we show that the obtained parameters for the Gaussian mixture models are also highly accurate. Numerical experiments are also provided.
Breed group differences in the unsolvable problem task: herding dogs prefer their owner, while solitary hunting dogs seek stranger proximity
Authors: Van Poucke Enya , Höglin Amanda , Jensen Per , Roth Lina S. V. 
Published: November 2021

AbstractThe communicating skills of dogs are well documented and especially their contact-seeking behaviours towards humans. The aim of this study was to use the unsolvable problem paradigm to investigate differences between breed groups in their contact-seeking behaviours towards their owner and a stranger. Twenty-four dogs of ancient breeds, 58 herding dogs, and 17 solitary hunting dogs were included in the study, and their behaviour when presented with an unsolvable problem task (UPT) was recorded for 3 min. All breed groups interacted with the test apparatus the same amount of time, but the herding dogs showed a longer gaze duration towards their owner compared to the other groups and they also preferred to interact with their owner instead of a stranger. Interestingly, the solitary hunting dogs were more in stranger proximity than the other groups, and they also showed a preference to make contact with a stranger instead of their owner. Hence, we found differences in contact-seeking behaviours, reflecting the dog–human relationship, between breed groups that might not only be related to their genetic similarity to wolves, but also due to the specific breeding history of the dogs.
Identification of a de novo splicing mutation in the CSF1R gene in a Chinese patient with hereditary diffuse leukoencephalopathy with spheroids
Authors: Wu Xinwei , Sun Congcong , Wang Xingbang , Liu Ying , Wu Wei , Jia Guoyong 
Published: November 2021

Abstract
Objective
To report a de novo splicing mutation in the CSF1R gene in a patient with hereditary diffuse leukoencephalopathy with spheroids (HDLS).

Methods
A 42-year-old Chinese woman with constant weakness on her left lower extremity was recruited in the current study. Detail medical history and clinical characteristics were reviewed. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), whole-exome sequencing, and Sanger sequencing were performed with bioinformatics analysis.

Results
The Chinese HDLS patient with no HDLS family history exhibited a de novo splicing mutation (c.1754-10 T > A) in the CSF1R gene. This mutation was located at the splice site of intron 12 and resulted in the skipping of exon 13 from the CSF1R mRNA. This finding constitutes the first de novo splicing mutation ever reported in HDLS. Furthermore, MRI abnormalities had been reported at least 6 months prior to the onset of the patient’s clinical phenotype.

Conclusion
Our study indicates that the diagnosis of HDLS should be considered even in the absence of a family history and can help deepen the clinical and genetic understanding of HDLS.
Evaluating a Values-Based Intervention for Adolescence with High Nonclinical Paranoia: A Schools-Based Randomised Control Trial
Authors: Parker A. , Kingston J. 
Published: November 2021

Abstract
Background
Paranoia in adolescents is common, but research on attenuating it is scarce. Focusing on values and enhancing value-based acts is a low intensity method for attenuating paranoia in adults. This randomised trial compared a brief (30-min, self-directed) values-plus-goals intervention to an active control for adolescents with high nonclinical paranoia (Paranoia Scale ≥ 53), delivered in schools. The study also investigated the role of self-esteem.

Methods
Ninety adolescents were randomly assigned to condition. Paranoia (primary outcome) and self-esteem (potential mediator) were assessed at baseline (T1), and two- (T2) and six-weeks (T3) after baseline.

Results
Results were analysed using intention to treat (ITT) and per protocol (PP) analysis. Using ITT analysis, the Condition*Time interaction was significant (F(2, 168) = 3.98, p = .02), paranoia was significantly lower at T3 following values-plus-goals as compared to control (d = 0.64). Differences were not significant using per protocol analysis (F(2, 106) = 1.61, p = .21). The between group effect size at T3 was (d = 0.61). The Condition*Time interaction for self-esteem was not significant (F(2, 112) = 2.86, p = .06).

Conclusions
Tentatively, findings suggest that a brief values-plus-goals intervention can reduce paranoia in adolescents relative to an active control.
Design Methodology for Grout Curtains Under Dams Founded on Rock
Authors: Zhang Suihan , Johansson Fredrik , Stille Håkan 
Published: November 2021

AbstractGrout curtains are commonly constructed under dams to reduce the seepage through the rock foundation. In the design of grout curtains, empirical methods have mainly been used since the introduction of dam foundation grouting. Although empirical methods have been used with success in several projects, they have their limitations, such as poor control of the grout spread, only an indirect consideration of the threat of internal erosion of fracture infillings in the grouted zones, and the risk of hydraulic jacking. This paper presents a theory-based design methodology for grout curtains under dams founded on rock. In the design methodology, the grout curtain is designed as a structural component of the dam. The risk of erosion of fracture infilling material is explicitly accounted for along with the reduction of the hydraulic conductivity of the rock mass, and an optimization of the total uplift force. By applying the proposed design methodology, engineers can create a design better adapted to the prevailing geological and hydrogeological conditions in the rock mass, resulting in more durable grout curtains. The proposed methodology also enables cost and time estimates to be calculated for the grout curtain’s construction. Applying the principles of the observational method during the grouting execution also allows the design to be modified via predefined measures if the initial design is found to be unsuitable.
Ultrasonic Echo Localization Using Seismic Migration Techniques in Engineered Barriers for Nuclear Waste Storage
Authors: Büttner Christoph , Niederleithinger Ernst , Buske Stefan , Friedrich Christian 
Published: November 2021

AbstractIn the framework of non-destructive-testing advanced seismic imaging techniques have been applied to ultrasonic echo data in order to examine the integrity of an engineered test-barrier designed to be used for sealing an underground nuclear waste disposal site. Synthetic data as well as real multi-receiver ultrasonic data acquired at the test site were processed and imaged using Kirchhoff prestack depth migration reverse time migration (RTM). In general, both methods provide a good image quality as demonstrated by various case studies, however deeper parts within the test barrier containing inclined reflectors were reconstructed more accurately by RTM. In particular, the image quality of a specific target reflector at a depth of 8 m in the test-barrier has been significantly improved compared to previous investigations using synthetic aperture focusing technique, which justifies the considerable computing time of this method.
A review on instance ranking problems in statistical learning
Authors: Werner Tino 
Published: November 2021

AbstractRanking problems, also known as preference learning problems, define a widely spread class of statistical learning problems with many applications, including fraud detection, document ranking, medicine, chemistry, credit risk screening, image ranking or media memorability. While there already exist reviews concentrating on specific types of ranking problems like label and object ranking problems, there does not yet seem to exist an overview concentrating on instance ranking problems that both includes developments in distinguishing between different types of instance ranking problems as well as careful discussions about their differences and the applicability of the existing ranking algorithms to them. In instance ranking, one explicitly takes the responses into account with the goal to infer a scoring function which directly maps feature vectors to real-valued ranking scores, in contrast to object ranking problems where the ranks are given as preference information with the goal to learn a permutation. In this article, we systematically review different types of instance ranking problems and the corresponding loss functions resp. goodness criteria. We discuss the difficulties when trying to optimize those criteria. As for a detailed and comprehensive overview of existing machine learning techniques to solve such ranking problems, we systematize existing techniques and recapitulate the corresponding optimization problems in a unified notation. We also discuss to which of the instance ranking problems the respective algorithms are tailored and identify their strengths and limitations. Computational aspects and open research problems are also considered.
Non-communicated judgements of, versus feedback on, students’ essays: Is feedback inflation larger for students with a migration background?
Authors: Nishen Anna K. , Kessels Ursula 
Published: November 2021

AbstractWhen providing feedback, teachers are concerned not only with the simple transmission of information, but also with motivational and interpersonal dynamics. To mitigate these concerns, teachers may inflate feedback by reducing negative or increasing positive content. The resulting difference between initial judgments and feedback may be even more drastic for ethnic minority students: In non-communicated judgments, negative stereotypes may result in more negative judgments, whereas in feedback, concerns about being or appearing prejudiced may inflate feedback towards ethnic minority students. These hypotheses were tested in a sample of 132 German teacher students in a 2 (between subjects: feedback vs. non-communicated judgment) × 2 (within subjects: target student's migration background: Turkish vs. none) design in which participants read supposed student essays and provided their written impressions to the research team or the supposed student. Findings revealed that teacher students’ feedback was more positive than their non-communicated judgments on a multitude of dimensions. Contrary to expectations, these effects were not stronger when the student had a Turkish migration background. Instead, teacher students rated the essay of the student with a Turkish migration background more favorably both in the judgment and feedback conditions. Our results suggest that teachers adapt their initial judgments when giving feedback to account for interpersonal or motivational dynamics. Moreover, ethnic minority students may be especially likely to receive overly positive feedback. While the motivational/interpersonal dynamics may warrant some inflation in feedback, negative consequences of overly positive feedback, for which ethnic minority students may be especially vulnerable, are discussed.
Essential and Non-essential Trace Elements in Milks and Plant-Based Drinks
Authors: Marquès Montse , Correig Eudald , Capdevila Esther , Gargallo Eva , González Neus , Nadal Martí , Domingo José L. 
Published: November 2021

AbstractAlthough milk and plant-based drinks are widely consumed foodstuffs with high nutritional value, their consumption may also mean intake of non-essential/toxic elements becoming a risk for human health. This study was aimed at determining the concentrations of essential (Ca, Co, K, Mg, Mn, Na, Ni and P) and non-essential/toxic (Hg, Pb, U and V) elements in milks (cow and goat), plant-based drinks (soy, almond, rice and oat) and infant formulas from organic and conventional production systems. Lactose-free, fresh and ultra-high-temperature (UHT) milks were also included. Chemical analyses were performed by means of inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The content of the elements hereby assessed did not depend on the production system and the presence of lactose. However, significant differences were found in the concentrations of multiple elements when comparing sterilization methods, source (animal vs. plant-based) and animal species. Non-essential elements were not detected in milks and plant-based drinks, excepting Pb, which was detected in three samples. While the consumption of goat milk is recommended, considering the global intake of essential elements and the absence of non-essential elements, further studies should be conducted to confirm the absence of non-target toxic elements at very low trace levels. On the other hand, the best plant-based drinks are those made up with almonds (intake of Ca) and soy (K and Mg). The current results should be useful to help the population to balance the benefits and risks from milks and plant-based drinks consumption, as well as to adapt their dietary habits.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: IFIT1 modulates the proliferation, migration and invasion of pancreatic cancer cells via Wnt/β-catenin signaling
Authors: Li Tian-Hao , Zhao Bang-Bo , Qin Cheng , Wang Yuan-Yang , Li Ze-Ru , Cao Hong-Tao , Yang Xiao-Ying , Zhou Xing-Tong , Wang Wei-Bin 
Published: November 2021

Abstract

Objectives
Previously, Interferon-induced Protein with Tetratricopeptide Repeats 1 (IFIT1) has been shown to promote cancer development. Here, we aimed to explore the role of IFIT1 in the development and progression of pancreatic cancer, including the underlying mechanisms.

Methods
We explored IFIT1 expression in pancreatic cancer samples using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8), colony formation, scratch wound-healing and Transwell assays were performed to assess the proliferation, migration and invasion abilities of pancreatic cancer cells. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) and Western blotting were performed to assess the regulatory effect of IFIT1 on the Wnt/β-catenin pathway.

Results
We found that upregulation of IFIT1 expression is common in pancreatic cancer and is negatively associated with overall patient survival. Knockdown of IFIT1 expression led to decreased proliferation, migration and invasion of pancreatic cancer cells. We also found that IFIT1 could regulate Wnt/β-catenin signaling, and that a Wnt/β-catenin agonist could reverse this effect. In addition, we found that IFIT1 can promote epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of pancreatic cancer cells.

Conclusions
Our data indicate that IFIT1 increases pancreatic cancer cell proliferation, migration and invasion by activating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. In addition, we found that EMT could be regulated by IFIT1. IFIT1 may serve as a potential therapeutic target for pancreatic cancer.