bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of single‐cell microbial mass spectra profiles from single‐particle aerosol mass spectrometry
Authors: Liu Chaowu , Li Boning , Liu Cong , Li Mei , Zhou Zhen
Published: February 2021

Rationale

Single‐particle aerosol mass spectrometry is a practical method for studying microbial aerosols. However, the related mass spectral characteristics of single‐cell microorganisms have not yet been studied systematically; hence, further investigations are necessary.

Methods

Different microbial cells were grown and directly aerosolized in the laboratory. These aerosols were then drawn into a single‐particle mass spectrometer platform, and single‐cell mass spectra profiles were obtained in real‐time. The biological characteristics, ion variation trends, and microbial types were analyzed with either laser pulse energy or laser fluence.

Results

The single‐particle mass spectra contained prominent peaks that could be attributed to the presence of biological matter, such as organic phosphate and nitrogen, amino acids, and spore‐associated calcium complexes. Limited types of average mass spectral patterns were present, and a significant correlation was found between the ion intensity trend (presence and absence of peaks) and laser ionization energy (expressed by the total positive ion intensity). Although a single spectral data point does not contain all the peaks of the average spectrum, it covers most of the characteristic peaks and could be identified using a machine learning algorithm. After the analysis of single‐particle mass spectra, we found that using multi‐group features (e.g., peak intensity ratio of m/z +47 and +41, peak intensity ratio of 59N(CH3)3+ and 74N(CH3)4+, and 12 peak variables) led to an identification accuracy of approximately 92.4% with the random forest algorithm.

Conclusions

The results indicate that single‐cell mass spectral profiles can be used to distinguish microbial aerosols and further illustrate their origin in a laboratory setting.
Determination of magnesium isotopic ratios of biological reference materials via multi‐collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry
Authors: Le Goff Samuel , Albalat Emmanuelle , Dosseto Anthony , Godin Jean‐Philippe , Balter Vincent
Published: February 2021

Rationale

Despite a wide range of potential applications, magnesium (Mg) isotope composition has been so far sparsely measured in reference materials with a biological matrix, which is important for the quality control of the results. We describe a method enabling the chemical separation of Mg in geological and biological materials and the determination of its stable isotope composition.

Methods

Different geological (BHVO‐1, BHVO‐2, BCR‐1, and IAPSO) and biological (SRM‐1577c, BCR‐383, BCR380R, ERM‐CE464, DORM‐2, DORM‐4, TORT‐3, and FBS) reference materials were used to test the performance of a new sample preparation procedure for Mg isotopic analysis. The procedure consisted of a simple three‐stage elution method to separate Mg from the matrix. Mg isotopic analyses were performed in two different laboratories and with three different multi‐collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry instruments.

Results

The biological reference materials show a wide range of δ26Mg values (relative to DSM3 standard), spanning over 2‰, from 0.52 ± 0.29‰ (2SD, n = 7) in bovine liver (SRM‐1577c) to −1.45 ± 0.20‰ (2SD, n = 5) in tuna fish (ERM‐CE464), with an external precision of 0.03‰ (2SD, n = 85).

Conclusions

This study indicates that isotopic measurements of Mg in biological reference materials show good performance, with the results being within the accepted range. We confirmed that δ26Mg values in liver are the most positive of all biological materials reported so far.
52.1: Invited Paper: Novel dual‐branch SPICE model for tandem structure OLED
Authors: Mai Hanning , Underwood Ian
Published: February 2021

Tandem‐structure OLED devices have been developed using charge generation layers to implement two or more OLED units in a single stack. They can achieve higher brightness at a given current density than the conventional OLEDs. In order to incorporate the novel tandem structure OLED within the computer aided design (CAD) flow of microdisplays, we have developed an equivalent circuit model that accurately describes the tandem OLED electrical characteristics.
P‐10.3: Structural Optimization Method of Foldable AMOLED Panel Based on Mechanical Theory
Authors: Wu Di , Shi Junke , Chen Jianping , Liao Dunming
Published: February 2021

The multi‐neutral plane phenomenon of foldable panel can obviously reduce the strain of the AMOLED (active‐matrix organic light‐emitting diode) panel after being bent, but it also complicates the optimization of the panel structure. Considering the force balance at the axis of symmetry after the panel was folded, this paper established the basic theory of AMOLED panel structure optimization, which indicated the direction of structure optimization of the panel. Then the theory was validated by numerical simulation. It can be used to guide the structural design of the foldable panel.
P‐10.4: A Protection Structure of the Foldable Display for Preventing the Macro‐Cracks
Authors: Zhai Yingteng , Li Zhe , Yu Quanpeng
Published: February 2021

We proposed a structure of patterned TFT array films to prevent the macro‐cracks, which was implemented on the foldable organic light‐emitting diode (OLED) display. The out‐bending tests demonstrated that the protection structure can improve the reliability. And the limitation of the bending radius achieved to 1.5 millimeter.
Do More Female Politicians Translate Into Better Health Outcomes? Gender Representation and Infant Mortality in Argentine Provinces
Authors: Cunial Santiago Lujan
Published: February 2021

To what extent does the gender of politicians relate to health outcomes? This article investigates the political economy of health in Argentina (1983–2017), by focusing on the gender of politicians in Argentine provinces and its relationship with subnational political competition. By applying a panel data analysis with province‐fixed effects, the article finds that overall increasing women's political representation is associated with a reduction of the rate of infant mortality. The article also shows that an increase in women's representation relates to a higher reduction of infant mortality under more competitive regimes. As a possible explanation for the inverse relationship between women's representation and infant mortality, the analysis discusses two channels through which women's representation may translate into better health outcomes: the sanction of laws aimed at health issues and the allocation of state budgets towards health.
Daily and Landscape Influences of Species Visitation to Toxic Bait Sites for Wild Pigs
Authors: Snow Nathan P. , Halseth Joseph M. , Glow Michael P. , Lavelle Michael J. , Fischer Justin W. , Vannatta Eric H. , VerCauTeren Kurt C.
Published: February 2021

Toxic baiting of wild pigs (Sus scrofa) is a potential new tool for population control and damage reduction in the United States. Use of toxic bait sites by non‐target species is concerning because of the risks posed from exposure to a toxic bait. A 2018 field trial in northern Texas, USA, examining the efficacy of a prototype toxic bait (HOGGONE®, containing 10% sodium nitrite) revealed unexpected hazards to non‐target species, primarily passerine birds, from consuming toxic bait spilled outside of bait stations by wild pigs. The hazards jeopardize the ability to register HOGGONE as a tool for controlling wild pigs. We conducted apost hocanalysis from that 2018 trial to identify how daily and landscape factors influenced the use of bait sites by non‐target species, and subsequent hazards from consuming the toxic bait. We discovered that no single strategy can eliminate visitations by all non‐target species, but offering the toxic bait at night, in wild‐pig specific bait stations, and in more homogeneous landscapes appeared to be the best strategy for minimizing visits by passerine birds. We also found that use of bait sites by wild pigs were temporally clustered, and more pigs visited bait sites along linear features of the landscape (e.g., agricultural edges or riparian corridors). We recommend a baiting strategy where applicators do not place bait stations directly at sites where remnant particles of grain (from prebaiting) are available on the ground. Published 2021. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
On the Tracks of Neandertals: The Ichnological Assemblage from Le Rozel (Normandy, France)
Authors: Duveau Jérémy , Berillon Gilles , Verna Christine
Published: February 2021

Hominin tracks represent a unique window into moments in the life of extinct individuals. They can provide biological and locomotor data that are not accessible from skeletal remains. However, these tracks are relatively scarce in the fossil record, particularly those attributed to Neandertals. They are also most often devoid of associated archaeological material, which limits their interpretation. The Palaeolithic site of Le Rozel (Normandy, France) located in a dune complex formed during the Upper Pleistocene has yielded between 2012 and 2017 several hundred tracks (257 hominin footprints, 8 handprints as well as 6 animal tracks). This ichnological assemblage is distributed within five stratigraphic subunits dated to 80,000 years. These subunits are rich in archaeological material that attests to brief occupations by Neandertal groups and provides information about the activities that they carried out. The ichnological assemblage discovered at Le Rozel is the largest attributed to Neandertals to date and more generally the most important for hominin taxa other than Homo sapiens. The particularly large number of footprints can provide major information for our understanding of the Palaeolithic occupations at Le Rozel and for our knowledge of the composition of Neandertal groups.
Correction to: Reconsidering Different Visions of Scientific Literacy and Science Education Based on the Concept of Bildung
Authors: Sjöström Jesper , Eilks Ingo
Published: February 2021

The original version of this chapter was revised and the chapter is now open access under a CC BY 4.0 license.
Phase transition in JT gravity and $$ T\overline{T} $$ deformation
Authors: Kim Kyung Kiu , Baek Jong-Hyun , Seo Yunseok
Published: February 2021

Abstract

In this paper we study a black hole phase transition in a generalized JT gravity noticed inarXiv:2006.03494. We investigate the effect of the phase transition on the Euclidean geodesic and holographic two-point function in models with dilaton potential which interpolates two ordinary JT gravities with different cosmological constants. It is noted that there exists a closed geodesic with a new scale at low temperature phase when the potential has a locally negative region. This scale causes several peaks in the two-point function. We also comment on the phase transition of charged black holes. We then consider coupling generalized JT gravity to a matter and study its relation to a$$ T\overline{T} $$TT¯deformation of CFT at the classical level. We find the deformation parameter as a function of the dilaton and provide examples showing Janus-type couplings.
Evolution, structure and emerging roles of C1ORF112 in DNA replication, DNA damage responses, and cancer
Authors: Edogbanya Jacob , Tejada‐Martinez Daniela , Jones Nigel J. , Jaiswal Amit , Bell Sarah , Cordeiro Rui , van Dam Sipko , Rigden Daniel J. , de Magalhães João Pedro
Published: February 2021

The C1ORF112 gene initially drew attention when it was found to be strongly co‐expressed with several genes previously associated with cancer and implicated in DNA repair and cell cycle regulation, such as RAD51 and the BRCA genes. The molecular functions of C1ORF112 remain poorly understood, yet several studies have uncovered clues as to its potential functions. Here, we review the current knowledge on C1ORF112 biology, its evolutionary history, possible functions, and its potential relevance to cancer. C1ORF112 is conserved throughout eukaryotes, from plants to humans, and is very highly conserved in primates. Protein models suggest that C1ORF112 is an alpha-helical protein. Interestingly, homozygous knockout mice are not viable, suggesting an essential role for C1ORF112 in mammalian development. Gene expression data show that, among human tissues, C1ORF112 is highly expressed in the testes and overexpressed in various cancers when compared to healthy tissues. C1ORF112 has also been shown to have altered levels of expression in some tumours with mutant TP53. Recent screens associate C1ORF112 with DNA replication and reveal possible links to DNA damage repair pathways, including the Fanconi anaemia pathway and homologous recombination. These insights provide important avenues for future research in our efforts to understand the functions and potential disease relevance of C1ORF112.
Gender differences in the skill content of jobs
Authors: Pető Rita , Reizer Balázs
Published: February 2021

There is significant heterogeneity in actual skill use within occupations even though occupations are differentiated by the task workers should perform during work. Using data on 12 countries which are available both in the Programme for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies survey and International Social Survey Program, we show that women use their cognitive skills less than men even within the same occupation. The gap in skill intensity cannot be explained by differences in worker characteristics or in cognitive skills. Instead, we show that living in a partnership significantly increases the skill use of men compared with women. We argue that having a partner affects skill use through time allocation as the gender penalty of partnered women is halved once we control for working hours and hours spent on housework. Finally, we do not find evidence of workplace discrimination against women.
Association between surgical volumes and real-world healthcare cost when using a mesh capturing device for pelvic organ prolapse: A 5-years comparison between single- versus multicenter use
Authors: Morcos Edward , Falconer Christian , Grip Emilie Toresson , Geale Kirk , Hellgren Katarina , Poutakidis Georgios , Altman Daniel
Published: February 2021

Introduction and hypothesis

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether high surgical volume at a single center was associated with lower healthcare costs compared to lower surgical volume in a multicenter setting.

Methods

All patients had symptomatic and anatomical apical prolapse (POP-Q ≥ stage II) with or without cystocele and were operated on by a standard surgical procedure using the Uphold mesh. Data on time of resource use in terms of surgery time, hospital stay and re-interventions across 5 years were compared between the single center (97 patients) and multicenter (173 patients, at 24 clinics). Unit costs for surgical time, inpatient and outpatient visits were extracted from the single-center hospital’s operation analysis program and prime production cost. Total costs were estimated for primary surgery and during 5-year follow-up.

Results

Costs for primary surgery were comparable between the single and the multicenter ($13,561 ± 2688 and $13,867 ± 1177, P = 0.29). Follow-up costs 5 years after primary surgery were 2.8 times higher at the multicenter than single center ($3262 vs. $1149, P < 0.001). Mean cost per patient over 5 years was significantly lower at the single than multicenter [$14,710 (CI: 14,168–15,252) vs. $17,128 (CI: 16,952–17,305), P < 0.001)].

Conclusions

Using a mesh kit for apical pelvic organ prolapse in a high surgical volume center was associated with reduced healthcare costs compared with a lower volume multiple-site setting. The cost reduction at the high surgical volume center increased over time because of lower surgical and medical re-intervention rates for postoperative complications and recurrence.
Alkylated epidermal creatine kinase as a biomarker for sulfur mustard exposure: comparison to adducts of albumin and DNA in an in vivo rat study
Authors: Steinritz Dirk , Lüling Robin , Siegert Markus , Herbert Julia , Mückter Harald , Taeger Christian D. , Gudermann Thomas , Dietrich Alexander , Thiermann Horst , John Harald
Published: February 2021

Sulfur mustard (SM) is a chemical warfare agent which use is banned under international law and that has been used recently in Northern Iraq and Syria by the so-called Islamic State. SM induces the alkylation of endogenous proteins like albumin and hemoglobin thus forming covalent adducts that are targeted by bioanalytical methods for the verification of systemic poisoning. We herein report a novel biomarker, namely creatine kinase (CK) B-type, suitable as a local biomarker for SM exposure on the skin. Human and rat skin were proven to contain CK B-type by Western blot analysis. Following exposure to SM ex vivo, the CK-adduct was extracted from homogenates by immunomagnetic separation and proteolyzed afterwards. The cysteine residue Cys282 was found to be alkylated by the SM-specific hydroxyethylthioethyl (HETE)-moiety detected as the biomarker tetrapeptide TC(-HETE)PS. A selective and sensitive micro liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization high-resolution tandem-mass spectrometry (µLC-ESI MS/HRMS) method was developed to monitor local CK-adducts in an in vivo study with rats percutaneously exposed to SM. CK-adduct formation was compared to already established DNA- and systemic albumin biomarkers. CK- and DNA-adducts were successfully detected in biopsies of exposed rat skin as well as albumin-adducts in plasma. Relative biomarker concentrations make the CK-adduct highly appropriate as a local dermal biomarker. In summary, CK or rather Cys282 in CK B-type was identified as a new, additional dermal target of local SM exposures. To our knowledge, it is also the first time that HETE-albumin adducts, and HETE-DNA adducts were monitored simultaneously in an in vivo animal study.
Off-label use of orthopedical trauma implants in a low-income country
Authors: Wichlas F. , Hofmann V. , Strada G. , Moursy M. , Deininger C.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Lack of resources, severe injuries, and logistical flaws force surgeons in low-income countries (LIC) to improvise during surgery and use implants “off-label.” These off-label treatments are specific for the work of trauma surgeons in non-governmental (NGO) hospitals in LIC. The aim of this study is to show the need of off-label surgery in an environment of low resources by means of typical examples.

Methods

Off-label treated fractures, the implant used instead, and the reason for off-label treatment were investigated in 367 injuries over a three month period in an NGO hospital in Sierra Leone.

Results

Twenty-seven fractures were treated off-label with mostly K-wires (88.89%) and external fixators (51.85%). Three reasons for off-label use could be defined: no suitable implants (N = 14), the condition of soft tissues that did not allow internal osteosyntheses (N = 10), and implants not ready for surgery due to logistic flaws (N = 3). The implants needed were mostly locking plates.

Conclusion

Surgeons in similar settings must use K-wires and external fixators to treat complex fractures. Using implants off-label can help surgeons to treat fractures otherwise left untreated.
Effects of maternal exposure to a bacterial antigen and altered post-hatching rearing conditions on avian offspring behaviour
Authors: Martyka Rafał , Śliwińska Ewa B. , Tryjanowski Piotr
Published: February 2021

The early-life environment plays a crucial role in shaping morphological, physiological, and behavioural traits, with potential long-term consequences for fitness. Indeed, a set of factors experienced by offspring during prenatal and early post-natal development has been recognised to affect behavioural trait expression in later life. Several studies have shown that in birds, nutritional and social rearing conditions and maternal and/or neonatal immunisations may profoundly determine the development and establishment of behaviour in offspring. To our knowledge, no research has examined whether and how the interaction between immune-mediated maternal effects and post-hatching rearing conditions affects offspring behaviour. Here, we studied the effects of maternal exposure to a bacterial antigen and altered brood size on docility, breathing rate, and aggression in the offspring of great tit,Parus major. We used a 2 × 2 design to investigate the interactive effects of maternal immunisation and brood size manipulation on offspring behavioural development. We found no such interactive effect on offspring behaviour, although we observed it regarding to offspring body mass and tarsus length. Maternal immunisation itself did not affect offspring behaviour. However, we demonstrated that the offspring breathing rate and level of aggression were affected by brood size manipulation. Both breathing rate and aggression in offspring reared in enlarged broods were lower than those in offspring reared in non-manipulated broods. Our study did not confirm earlier reports that immune-mediated maternal effects modulate offspring behavioural development, but we showed that brood size during rearing might indeed be a factor that affects offspring behaviour.

Significance statement

The early environment experienced by offspring constitutes a significant source of developmental plasticity, which may profoundly affect the establishment of their behavioural traits. Food availability, social conditions, and maternal or offspring infection are crucial factors shaping various behavioural traits in birds. However, there remains a lack of studies emphasising the potential interactive effects of early-life conditions on behavioural trait development in natural bird populations. Here, to our knowledge for the first time, we experimentally examined how maternal immunisation and altered post-hatching rearing conditions interact to determine the behaviour of fledged offspring. We found that maternal treatment and brood size manipulation interactively affected offspring body mass and tarsus length, but this interaction had no effect on offspring behaviour. Our findings suggest that different mechanisms may underlie the development of morphological and behavioural traits.
Clinical Outcomes of Acute Appendicitis During Pregnancy: Conservative Management and Appendectomy
Authors: Nakashima Masayuki , Takeuchi Masato , Kawakami Koji
Published: February 2021

Purpose

We have described the epidemiology, diagnostic modality, treatment patterns, and outcomes of acute appendicitis during pregnancy.

Methods

Using a nationwide claim‐based database in Japan, we analyzed the data of pregnant patients who were diagnosed with appendicitis between January 2005 and May 2019. Patient characteristics, imaging studies, length of hospital stay, proportion of fetal losses, complications, and type of antibiotics were examined.

Results

The study included 169 patients, of whom 113 patients (67%) underwent conservative management, and appendectomies were performed on 56 patients (open 25% and laparoscopic 8%). The proportion of ultrasonography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging were 97%, 17%, and 5% (for conservative management); 88%, 39%, and 13% (for appendectomy); 86%, 38%, and 21% (for open appendectomy); and 93%, 43%, and 14% (for laparoscopic appendectomy), respectively. The proportion of complicated appendicitis was 6% in conservative management and 41% in appendectomy (40% in open appendectomy and 43% in laparoscopic appendectomy), respectively.

The incidence of fetal loss was 4% in conservative management, 5% in appendectomy (2% in open appendectomy, and 14% in laparoscopic appendectomy). However, there was only one fetal loss (in laparoscopic appendectomy) in the same case of hospitalization. There were no maternal deaths or serious complications after any treatment.

Conclusion

All treatments showed acceptable outcomes in appendicitis during pregnancy. Conservative management is considered an acceptable option, especially in uncomplicated cases of appendicitis in pregnant women.
Combined renal and common hepatic artery denervation as a novel approach to reduce cardiometabolic risk: technical approach, feasibility and safety in a pre-clinical model
Authors: Kiuchi Márcio Galindo , Ganesan Kavitha , Keating John , Carnagarin Revathy , Matthews Vance B. , Herat Lakshini Y. , Goh Gerard , Adams Leon , Schlaich Markus P.
Published: February 2021

Background

Cardiovascular and metabolic regulation is governed by neurohumoral signalling in relevant organs such as kidney, liver, pancreas, duodenum, adipose tissue, and skeletal muscle. Combined targeting of relevant neural outflows may provide a unique therapeutic opportunity for cardiometabolic disease.

Objectives

We aimed to investigate the feasibility, safety, and performance of a novel device-based approach for multi-organ denervation in a swine model over 30 and 90 days of follow-up.

Methods

Five Yorkshire cross pigs underwent combined percutaneous denervation in the renal arteries and the common hepatic artery (CHA) with the iRF Denervation System. Control animals (n = 3) were also studied. Specific energy doses were administered in the renal arteries and CHA. Blood was collected at 30 and 90 days. All animals had a pre-terminal procedure angiography. Tissue samples were collected for norepinephrine (NEPI) bioanalysis. Histopathological evaluation of collateral structures and tissues near the treatment sites was performed to assess treatment safety.

Results

All animals entered and exited the study in good health. No stenosis or vessel abnormalities were present. No significant changes in serum chemistry occurred. NEPI concentrations were significantly reduced in the liver (− 88%, p = 0.005), kidneys (− 78%, p < 0.001), pancreas (− 78%, p = 0.018) and duodenum (− 95%, p = 0.028) following multi-organ denervation treatment compared to control animals. Histologic findings were consistent with favourable tissue responses at 90 days follow-up.

Conclusions

Significant and sustained denervation of the treated organs was achieved at 90 days without major safety events. Our findings demonstrate the feasibility of multi-organ denervation using a novel iRF Denervation System in a single procedure.
Functional analysis of a gene-edited mouse model to gain insights into the disease mechanisms of a titin missense variant
Authors: Jiang He , Hooper Charlotte , Kelly Matthew , Steeples Violetta , Simon Jillian N. , Beglov Julia , Azad Amar J. , Leinhos Lisa , Bennett Pauline , Ehler Elisabeth , Kalisch-Smith Jacinta I. , Sparrow Duncan B. , Fischer Roman , Heilig Raphael , Isackson Henrik , Ehsan Mehroz , Patone Giannino , Huebner Norbert , Davies Benjamin , Watkins Hugh , Gehmlich Katja
Published: February 2021

Titin truncating variants are a well-established cause of cardiomyopathy; however, the role of titin missense variants is less well understood. Here we describe the generation of a mouse model to investigate the underlying disease mechanism of a previously reported titin A178D missense variant identified in a family with non-compaction and dilated cardiomyopathy. Heterozygous and homozygous mice carrying the titin A178D missense variant were characterised in vivo by echocardiography. Heterozygous mice had no detectable phenotype at any time point investigated (up to 1 year). By contrast, homozygous mice developed dilated cardiomyopathy from 3 months. Chronic adrenergic stimulation aggravated the phenotype. Targeted transcript profiling revealed induction of the foetal gene programme and hypertrophic signalling pathways in homozygous mice, and these were confirmed at the protein level. Unsupervised proteomics identified downregulation of telethonin and four-and-a-half LIM domain 2, as well as the upregulation of heat shock proteins and myeloid leukaemia factor 1. Loss of telethonin from the cardiac Z-disc was accompanied by proteasomal degradation; however, unfolded telethonin accumulated in the cytoplasm, leading to a proteo-toxic response in the mice.We show that the titin A178D missense variant is pathogenic in homozygous mice, resulting in cardiomyopathy. We also provide evidence of the disease mechanism: because the titin A178D variant abolishes binding of telethonin, this leads to its abnormal cytoplasmic accumulation. Subsequent degradation of telethonin by the proteasome results in proteasomal overload, and activation of a proteo-toxic response. The latter appears to be a driving factor for the cardiomyopathy observed in the mouse model.
Impact of increasing levels of adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction on image quality in oil-based postmortem CT angiography in coronary arteries
Authors: Steuwe Andrea , Boeven Judith , Cordes Lena , Draisci Stefano , Boos Johannes , Grabherr Silke , Bruguier Christine , Dalyanoglu Hannan , Antoch Gerald , Aissa Joel
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Postmortem multi-detector computed tomography (PMCT) has become an important part in forensic imaging. Modern reconstruction techniques such as iterative reconstruction (IR) are frequently used in postmortem CT angiography (PMCTA). The image quality of PMCTA depends on the strength of IR. For this purpose, we aimed to investigate the impact of different advanced IR levels on the objective and subjective PMCTA image quality.

Material and methods

We retrospectively analyzed the coronary arteries of 27 human cadavers undergoing whole-body postmortem CT angiography between July 2017 and March 2018 in a single center. Iterative reconstructions of the coronary arteries were processed in five different level settings (0%; 30%; 50%; 70%; 100%) by using an adaptive statistical IR method. We evaluated the objective (contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR)) and subjective image quality in several anatomical locations.

Results

Our results demonstrate that the increasing levels of an IR technique have relevant impact on the image quality in PMCTA scans in forensic postmortem examinations. Higher levels of IR have led to a significant reduction of image noise and therefore to a significant improvement of objective image quality (+ 70%). However, subjective image quality is inferior at higher levels of IR due to plasticized image appearance.

Conclusion

Objective image quality in PMCTA progressively improves with increasing level of IR with the best CNR at the highest IR level. However, subjective image quality is best at low to medium levels of IR. To obtain a “classic” image appearance with optimal image quality, PMCTAs should be reconstructed at medium levels of IR.
The impact of interrupting enzyme replacement therapy in late-onset Pompe disease
Authors: Wenninger Stephan , Gutschmidt Kristina , Wirner Corinna , Einvag Krisztina , Montagnese Federica , Schoser Benedikt
Published: February 2021

Background

Late-onset Pompe disease (LOPD) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutations in the GAA gene, leading to progressive weakness of locomotor and respiratory muscles. Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT), administered every second week, has been proven to slow down disease progression and stabilize pulmonary function. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany, ERT was interrupted at our centre for 29 days. As reports on ERT discontinuation in LOPD are rare, our study aimed to analyse the impact of ERT interruption on the change in clinical outcome.

Methods

We performed a prospective cohort study in 12 LOPD patients. Clinical assessments were performed after ERT interruption and after the next three consecutive infusions. We assessed motor function by muscle strength testing, a 6-minute-walk-test, pulmonary function tests, and adverse events. For statistical analysis, an estimated baseline was calculated based on the individual yearly decline.

Results

The mean time of ERT interruption was 49.42 days (SD ± 12.54). During ERT interruption, seven patients reported 14 adverse events and two of them were severe. Frequent symptoms were reduced muscle endurance/increased muscle fatigability and shortness of breath/worsening of breathing impairment. After ERT interruption, significant deterioration was found for MIP%pred (p = 0.026) and MRC%pred, as well as a trend to clinical deterioration in FVC%pred and the 6MWT%pred.

Conclusion

Interruption of ERT was associated with a deterioration in the core clinical outcome measures. Therefore, an interruption of ERT should be kept as short as possible.
Relating Hydraulic–Electrical–Elastic Properties of Natural Rock Fractures at Elevated Stress and Associated Transient Changes of Fracture Flow
Authors: Sawayama K. , Ishibashi T. , Jiang F. , Tsuji T. , Fujimitsu Y.
Published: February 2021

Monitoring the hydraulic properties within subsurface fractures is vitally important in the contexts of geoengineering developments and seismicity. Geophysical observations are promising tools for remote determination of subsurface hydraulic properties; however, quantitative interpretations are hampered by the paucity of relevant geophysical data for fractured rock masses. This study explores simultaneous changes in hydraulic and geophysical properties of natural rock fractures with increasing normal stress and correlates these property changes through coupling experiments and digital fracture simulations. Our lattice Boltzmann simulation reveals transitions in three-dimensional flow paths, and finite-element modeling enables us to investigate the corresponding evolution of geophysical properties. We show that electrical resistivity is linked with permeability and flow area regardless of fracture roughness, whereas elastic wave velocity is roughness-dependent. This discrepancy arises from the different sensitivities of these quantities to microstructure: velocity is sensitive to the spatial distribution of asperity contacts, whereas permeability and resistivity are insensitive to contact distribution, but instead are controlled by fluid connectivity. We also are able to categorize fracture flow patterns as aperture-dependent, aperture-independent, or disconnected flows, with transitions at specific stress levels. Elastic wave velocity offers potential for detecting the transition between aperture-dependent flow and aperture-independent flow, and resistivity is sensitive to the state of connection of the fracture flow. The hydraulic-electrical-elastic relationships reported here may be beneficial for improving geophysical interpretations and may find applications in studies of seismogenic zones and geothermal reservoirs.
A Cross University-Led COVID-19 Rapid-Response Effort: Design, Build, and Distribute Drexel AJFlex Face Shields
Authors: Throckmorton Amy L. , Bass Ellen J. , Ferrick Bryan , Ramakrishnan Arun , Eichmann Scott , Catucci Nicholas , Eshelman Bradley , McNamara John , Sundquist Erik , Beatson Nathan , Hirschhorn Matthew , Menon Pooja , Datner Elizabeth , Stevens Randy , Marcolongo Michele
Published: February 2021

The purpose of this article is to demonstrate how a new cross-community leadership team came together, collaborated, coordinated across academic units with external community partners, and executed a joint mission to address the unmet clinical need for medical face shields during these unprecedented times. Key aspects of this success include the ability to forge and leverage new opportunities, overcome challenges, adapt to changing constraints, and serve the significant need across the Philadelphia region and healthcare systems. We teamed to design-build durable face shields (AJFlex Shields). This was accomplished by high-volume manufacturing via injection molding and by 3-D printing the key headband component that supports the protective shield. Partnering with industry collaborators and civic-minded community allies proved to be essential to bolster production and deliver approximately 33,000 face shields to more than 100 organizations in the region. Our interdisciplinary team of engineers, clinicians, product designers, manufacturers, distributors, and dedicated volunteers is committed to continuing the design-build effort and providing Drexel AJFlex Shields to our communities.
Corporate social behaviour: Is it good for efficiency in the Chinese banking industry?
Authors: Fukuyama Hirofumi , Tan Yong
Published: February 2021

We develop an output-oriented data envelopment analysis framework to examine the efficiency of Chinese banks over the period 2007–2017 and further test the relationship between efficiency and corporate social responsibility (CSR). We are the first piece of research considering the number of employees as one bank input and potential increase in the number of employees as one CSR indicator. Additionally, we innovatively propose another three specific CSR indicators: namely donation, balance of green credits and loans to small and medium sized enterprises. The results show that the gain from improving allocative output-efficiency by reallocating variable inputs is less than the gain attained by improving technical output-efficiency. Evidence from the second-stage regression analysis shows that the overall indirect technical efficiency is significantly and negatively affected by the volumes of green credits, while an increase in the volumes of donations will improve the indirect allocative efficiency.
Challenges and Facilitators During Transitions from Adolescent Medium Secure Units to Adult Services in England: Interviews with Mental Healthcare Professionals
Authors: Livanou Maria , D’Souza Sophie , Lane Rebecca , La Plante Breanna , Singh Swaran P.
Published: February 2021

Young people moving from child and adolescent secure hospitals present with complex needs and vulnerabilities and are more likely to experience poor transition outcomes. Previous research has indicated the presence of several risk factors in periods of transition, such as poor liaison among services, lack of proper planning, shortage of beds in adult services, multiple transitions and lack of emotional readiness. However, little evidence exists about the processes and outcomes of transitions from adolescent secure services to adult settings. This study aims to bridge the gap in the existing literature by exploring the views and experiences of key professionals involved in the transition process from six adolescent medium secure units to nine adult secure and community services in England. Thirty-four key workers from 15 child and adolescent (N = 21) and adult (N = 13) forensic hospitals were interviewed to provide information about potential barriers and facilitators to transitions. Face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted between January 2016 and December 2017. Thematic analysis was used to identify challenges and facilitators to transitions. Three primary themes were identified: (1) transition processes and preparation; (2) transition barriers and challenges; (3) success factors to transition. Key differences in adult and adolescent service care-models and lack of emotional and developmental readiness to moving onto adult-oriented settings constitute major barriers to positive transition outcomes. Practice and policy implications are considered to address the need for service transformations.
Platelets as messengers of early-stage cancer
Authors: Sabrkhany Siamack , Kuijpers Marijke J. E. , oude Egbrink Mirjam G. A. , Griffioen Arjan W.
Published: February 2021

Platelets have an important role in tumor angiogenesis, growth, and metastasis. The reciprocal interaction between cancer and platelets results in changes of several platelet characteristics. It is becoming clear that analysis of these platelet features could offer a new strategy in the search for biomarkers of cancer. Here, we review the human studies in which platelet characteristics (e.g., count, volume, protein, and mRNA content) are investigated in early-stage cancer. The main focus of this paper is to evaluate which platelet features are suitable for the development of a blood test that could detect cancer in its early stages.
(+)-Usnic acid modulates the Nrf2-ARE pathway in FaDu hypopharyngeal carcinoma cells
Authors: Krajka-Kuźniak Violetta , Paluszczak Jarosław , Kleszcz Robert , Baer-Dubowska Wanda
Published: February 2021

Naturally occurring phytochemicals of different origin and structure, arctigenin, bergenin, usnic acid and xanthohumol, were shown to affect Nrf2 pathway in the context of various diseases, but their effect on this pathway in cancer cells was not extensively investigated. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of these compounds on Nrf2 expression and activation in hypopharyngeal FaDu squamous cell carcinoma cells. FaDu cells were treated with 2 or 10 μM arctigenin, bergenin, (+)-usnic acid or xanthohumol for 24 h. While arctigenin, bergenin, and xanthohumol did not affect either Nrf2 expression or activation, (+)-usnic acid treatment increased its transcript level and increased the nuclear/cytosol Nrf2 protein ratio—the measure of Nrf2 pathway activation. Consequently, (+)-usnic acid enhanced the transcription and translation of Nrf2 target genes: NQO1, SOD, and to a lesser extent, GSTP. The treatment of FaDu cells with (+)-usnic acid decreased both GSK-3β transcript and protein level, indicating its possible involvement in Nrf2 activation. All the tested compounds decreased Bax mRNA but did not change the level of Bax protein. (+)-Usnic acid tended to increase the percentage of early apoptotic cells and LC3 protein, autophagy marker. Significant induction of p53 also was observed after treatment with (+)-usnic acid. In summary, the results of this study indicate that low concentrations of (+)-usnic acid activate Nrf2 transcription factor, most probably as a result of ROS accumulation, but do not lead to FaDu hypopharyngeal carcinoma cells death.
Can particulate matter be identified as the primary cause of the rapid spread of CoViD-19 in some areas of Northern Italy?
Authors: Collivignarelli Maria Cristina , Abbà Alessandro , Caccamo Francesca Maria , Bertanza Giorgio , Pedrazzani Roberta , Baldi Marco , Ricciardi Paola , Carnevale Miino Marco
Published: February 2021

Northern Italy was the most affected by CoViD-19 compared to other Italian areas and comprises zones where air pollutants concentration was higher than in the rest of Italy. The aim of the research is to determine if particulate matter (PM) has been the primary cause of the high CoViD-19 spread rapidity in some areas of Northern Italy. Data of PM for all the 41 studied cities were collected from the local environmental protection agencies. To compare air quality data with epidemiological data, a statistical analysis was conducted identifying the correlation matrices of Pearson and Spearman, considering also the possible incubation period of the disease. Moreover, a model for the evaluation of the epidemic risk, already proposed in literature, was used to evaluate a possible influence of PM on CoViD-19 spread rapidity. The results exclude that PM alone was the primary cause of the high CoVid-19 spread rapidity in some areas of Northern Italy. Further developments are necessary for a better comprehension of the influence of atmospheric pollution parameters on the rapidity of spread of the virus SARS-CoV-2, since a synergistic action with other factors (such as meteorological, socio-economic and cultural factors) could not be excluded by the present study.

Graphical abstract
Short-term effects of pesticide fipronil on behavioral and physiological endpoints of Daphnia magna
Authors: Bownik Adam , Szabelak Aleksandra
Published: February 2021

Fipronil (FIP) is an organic pesticide with many practical uses. Although some results indicated toxic effects in some terrestrial and aquatic animal species, little is known on its influence on behavioral and physiological endpoints of cladocerans. The aim of our study was to determine the short-term effects of FIP at concentrations of 0.1 μg/L, 1 μg/L, 10 μg/L, and 100 μg/L onDaphnia magnasublethal indices: behavioral (swimming speed, distance traveled) and physiological endpoints (heart rate, post-abdominal claw activity and thoracic limb movements). The results showed that FIP induced reduction of swimming speed and distance traveled in a concentration- and time-dependent manner at all the concentrations used. The lowest concentration of the insecticide temporarily stimulated post-abdominal claw activity after 24 h and thoracic limb activity after 48 h; however, the highest concentrations reduced all the studied physiological endpoints. IC50 values showed that thoracic limb activity, swimming speed, and distance traveled were most sensitive to FIP after 24-h exposure. The most sensitive parameter after 48 h and 72 h was swimming speed and post-abdominal claw activity, respectively. The study indicated that (i) behavioral and physiological endpoints ofDaphnia magnaare reliable and valuable sublethal indicators of toxic alterations induced by FIP; however, they respond with different sensitivity at various times of exposure, (ii) FIP may alter cladoceran behavior and physiological processes at concentrations detected in the aquatic environment; therefore, it should be considered as an ecotoxicological hazard to freshwater cladocerans.
Modularized iCBT‑I self-learn training for university staff—prevention and early intervention in the SARS-CoV-2 crisis
Authors: Schlarb Angelika A. , Fründ Jan Philipp , Kovacevic Tatjana , Faber Jasmin
Published: February 2021

Background

Insomnia is a widespread disease in adults and has a high prevalence rate. As sleep disturbances are a risk factor concerning mental and physical health, prevention and early intervention are necessary. Thus, the aim of this study was to implement a self-learning prevention and early intervention training for university staff members. We adapted an established cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) intervention as an online version for use during the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) crisis.

Methods

Development and adaptation procedure of the internet-based CBT‑I (iCBT-I) prevention and early intervention training is described. Sessions and topics are shown in detail. The Online Sleep Prevention and Treatment Acceptance questionnaire (OSTA) and the Online Sleep Prevention and Treatment Feedback questionnaire (OSTF) were used to assess acceptance. Sleep problems of university staff members were assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Questionnaire (PSQI).

Results

The online-adapted version consisted of seven modules. Contents of sessions and topics were implemented based on video clips. Drawings were added to information regarding sleep and sleep hygiene as well as addressing stress and cognitions. In all, 15 individuals participated in this pilot study. The new iCBT‑I self-learning prevention training was well accepted. In addition, participants scored the online version as helpful based on the OSTA. Prior to online training, 89% of the participants reported impaired sleep quality or insomnia symptoms, and 56% had a PSQI score over 10. After training 78% of participants showed reduced sleep problems according to PSQI and 56% reached clinically significant enhancement. In addition, after training 44% were healthy sleepers.

Discussion

This is the first iCBT‑I prevention and early intervention training for university staff members. The training by participants was very well accepted and they scored the videos as very helpful. Sleep problems decreased after online training. However, further studies with larger samples and more sleep-related assessment strategies, e.g., actigraphy and sleep log, are necessary.
Kinder- und Jugendhilfe und LGBTIQ*
Authors: Mangold Katharina , Rein Angela
Published: February 2021

Der Beitrag führt in den Schwerpunkt ein und skizziert dabei dessen Zielsetzung, indem er die Texte und deren Akzentuierung kurz vorstellt.