bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Das Hamburger Register für intravitreale Injektionstherapien (QIVOM)
Authors: Wolfram Christian , Schargus Marc
Published: August 2021

Hintergrund

Intravitreale operative Medikamenteneingaben (IVOM) gehören zu den häufigsten medizinischen Prozeduren überhaupt mit ca. 1,5 Mio. Eingriffen in Deutschland pro Jahr. Für diese enorme Versorgungsaufgabe gibt es nur wenige empirische Daten über den Versorgungsprozess und seine klinische und subjektive Wirkung.

Material und Methoden

Es wird die Entwicklung und der Aufbau des Hamburger Registers für intravitreale Injektionstherapien (QIVOM) detailliert beschrieben. IVOM-Patienten der drei großen Augenkliniken Hamburgs (Asklepios Kliniken Nord-Hamburg und Barmbek, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf) werden im Rahmen der Routineversorgung mit IVOM zur Studienteilnahme eingeladen. Es werden subjektive Patientenangaben zum Krankheits- und Behandlungserleben erhoben und diese mit den patientenbezogenen medizinischen Parametern elektronisch ergänzt, pseudonymisiert und in einer elektronischen Datenbank erfasst.

Ergebnisse

Von den ersten 162 Studienpatienten (Alter 41–95 Jahre) war die Behandlungsindikation bei 64% exsudative altersbedingte Makuladegeneration (AMD), bei 22% retinaler Venenverschluss und bei 11% diabetisches Makulaödem. Es ergibt sich ein heterogenes Bild der Erkrankungsschwere und der subjektiven Beeinträchtigung. Eine Sehschärfe von 0,5 und besser wiesen 31,8% der Patienten am behandelten Auge im Vergleich zu 79,1% am Partnerauge auf. Die größte praktische Einschränkung betraf die Lesefähigkeit, bei der über ein Drittel erhebliche Einschränkungen erlebte. Autofahren war immerhin für 62% möglich. Eine Verbesserung der Sehfähigkeit durch IVOM erreichten 45% der Patienten.

Schlussfolgerung

Die Datenerfassung von patientenseitigen Daten und medizinischer Versorgungsdaten aus den Kliniken stellt den großen Vorteil des neu geschaffenen Registers dar. Die Erweiterung der Datenbasis soll in Zukunft vielfältige weiterführende Erkenntnisse erbringen und zur Qualitätssicherung in der IVOM-Therapie beitragen.
Effects of a disposable home electro-stimulation device (Pelviva) for the treatment of female urinary incontinence: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Oldham Jackie , Herbert Julia , Garnett Jane , Roberts Stephen A.
Published: August 2021

Aims

To compare current General Medical Practitioner treatment as usual (TAU) for the treatment of female urinary incontinence with a novel disposable home electro-stimulation device (Pelviva).

Methods

Open label, Primary Care post-market evaluation. 86 women with urinary incontinence were randomly assigned to one of two 12-week treatments: TAU or Pelviva for 30 min every other day plus TAU. Outcome measures included ICIQ-UI (primary), PISQ-IR, PGI-S / PGI-I and FSFI (secondary) at recruitment and immediately after intervention, 1-h pad test at recruitment and usage diaries throughout.

Results

Pelviva plus TAU produced significantly better outcome than TAU alone: 3 versus 1 point for ICIQ-UI (Difference − 1.8 95% CI: − 3.5 to − 0.1, P = 0.033). Significant differences were also observed for PGI-I at both 6 weeks (P = 0.001) and 12 weeks (P < 0.001). In the Pelviva group, 17% of women described themselves as feeling very much better and 54% a little or much better compared to 0% and 15% in the TAU. Overall PISQ-IR score reached statistical significance (P = 0.032) seemingly related to impact (P = 0.027). No other outcome measures reached statistical significance. Premature termination due to COVID-19 meant only 86 women were recruited from a sample size of 264. TAU did not reflect NICE guidelines.

Conclusions

This study suggests Pelviva is more successful than TAU in treating urinary incontinence in Primary Care. The study had reduced power due to early termination due to COVID-19 and suggests TAU does not follow NICE guidelines.
Computing Minimal Unique Substrings for a Sliding Window
Authors: Mieno Takuya , Fujishige Yuta , Nakashima Yuto , Inenaga Shunsuke , Bannai Hideo , Takeda Masayuki
Published: August 2021

A substring u of a string T is called a minimal unique substring (MUS) of T if u occurs exactly once in T and any proper substring of u occurs at least twice in T. In this paper, we study the problem of computing MUSs for a sliding window over a given string T. We first show how the set of MUSs can change when the window slides over T. We then present an $$O(n\log \sigma ')$$

O
(
n
log

σ
′

)

-time and O(d)-space algorithm to compute MUSs for a sliding window of size d over the input string T of length n, where $$\sigma '\le d$$

σ
′

≤
d

is the maximum number of distinct characters in every window.
An Extension Strain Type Mohr–Coulomb Criterion
Authors: Staat Manfred
Published: August 2021

Extension fractures are typical for the deformation under low or no confining pressure. They can be explained by a phenomenological extension strain failure criterion. In the past, a simple empirical criterion for fracture initiation in brittle rock has been developed. In this article, it is shown that the simple extension strain criterion makes unrealistic strength predictions in biaxial compression and tension. To overcome this major limitation, a new extension strain criterion is proposed by adding a weighted principal shear component to the simple criterion. The shear weight is chosen, such that the enriched extension strain criterion represents the same failure surface as the Mohr–Coulomb (MC) criterion. Thus, the MC criterion has been derived as an extension strain criterion predicting extension failure modes, which are unexpected in the classical understanding of the failure of cohesive-frictional materials. In progressive damage of rock, the most likely fracture direction is orthogonal to the maximum extension strain leading to dilatancy. The enriched extension strain criterion is proposed as a threshold surface for crack initiation CI and crack damage CD and as a failure surface at peak stress CP. Different from compressive loading, tensile loading requires only a limited number of critical cracks to cause failure. Therefore, for tensile stresses, the failure criteria must be modified somehow, possibly by a cut-off corresponding to the CI stress. Examples show that the enriched extension strain criterion predicts much lower volumes of damaged rock mass compared to the simple extension strain criterion.
Fully integrated sampler and dilutor in an electrochemical paper-based device for glucose sensing
Authors: Amor-Gutiérrez O. , Costa-Rama E. , Fernández-Abedul M. T.
Published: August 2021

An electroanalytical platform capable to take and dilute the sample has been designed in order to fully integrate the different steps of the analytical process in only one device. The concept is based on the addition of glass-fiber pads for sampling and diluting to an electrochemical cell combining a paper-based working electrode with low-cost connector headers as counter and reference electrodes. In order to demonstrate the feasibility of this all-in-one platform for biosensing applications, an enzymatic sensor for glucose determination (requiring a potential as low as −0.1 V vs. gold-plated wire by using ferrocyanide as mediator) was developed. Real food samples, such as cola beverages and orange juice, have been analyzed with the bioelectroanalytical lab-on-paper platform. As a proof-of-concept, and trying to go further in the integration of steps, sucrose was successfully detected by depositing invertase in the sampling strip. This enzyme hydrolyzes sucrose into fructose and glucose, which was determined using the enzymatic biosensor. This approach opens the pathway for the development of devices applying the lab-on-paper concept, saving costs and time, and making possible to perform decentralized analysis with high accuracy.

Graphical abstract
Moving-object detection and tracking by scanning LiDAR mounted on motorcycle based on dynamic background subtraction
Authors: Muro Shotaro , Yoshida Ibuki , Hashimoto Masafumi , Takahashi Kazuhiko
Published: August 2021

This paper presents a method for moving-object detection and tracking (DATMO) in global navigation satellite systems (GNSS)-denied environments using a light detection and ranging (LiDAR) mounted on a motorcycle. Distortion in the scanning LiDAR data is corrected by estimating the pose (3D positions and attitude angles) of the motorcycle in a period shorter than the LiDAR scan period using normal distributions transform-based simultaneous localization and mapping (NDT-based SLAM) and the information from an inertial measurement unit (IMU) via the extended Kalman filter (EKF). The scan data of interest are extracted by subtracting the local environment map generated by NDT-based SLAM from the LiDAR scan data. Moving objects are detected from the scan data of interest using an occupancy grid method and are tracked with a Bayesian filter. Experimental results obtained from public road and university campus environments demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Apomorphine Reduces A53T α-Synuclein-Induced Microglial Reactivity Through Activation of NRF2 Signalling Pathway
Authors: Heurtaux Tony , Kirchmeyer Melanie , Koncina Eric , Felten Paul , Richart Lorraine , Uriarte Huarte Oihane , Schohn Herve , Mittelbronn Michel
Published: August 2021

The chiral molecule, apomorphine, is currently used for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease (PD). As a potent dopamine receptor agonist, this lipophilic compound is especially effective for treating motor fluctuations in advanced PD patients. In addition to its receptor-mediated actions, apomorphine has also antioxidant and free radical scavenger activities. Neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and microglia reactivity have emerged as central players in PD. Thus, modulating microglia activation in PD may be a valid therapeutic strategy. We previously reported that murine microglia are strongly activated upon exposure to A53T mutant α-synuclein. The present study was designed to investigate whether apomorphine enantiomers could modulate this A53T-induced microglial activation. Taken together, the results provided evidence that apomorphine enantiomers decrease A53T-induced microgliosis, through the activation of the NRF2 signalling pathway, leading to a lower pro-inflammatory state and restoring the phagocytic activity. Suppressing NRF2 recruitment (trigonelline exposure) or silencing specifically Nfe2l2 gene (siRNA treatment) abolished or strongly decreased the anti-inflammatory activity of apomorphine. In conclusion, apomorphine, which is already used in PD patients to mimic dopamine activity, may also be suitable to decrease α-synuclein-induced microglial reactivity.
Hierarchical log Gaussian Cox process for regeneration in uneven-aged forests
Authors: Kuronen Mikko , Särkkä Aila , Vihola Matti , Myllymäki Mari
Published: August 2021

We propose a hierarchical log Gaussian Cox process (LGCP) for point patterns, where a set of points$$\varvec{x}$$xaffects another set of points$$\varvec{y}$$ybut not vice versa. We use the model to investigate the effect of large trees on the locations of seedlings. In the model, every point in$$\varvec{x}$$xhas a parametric influence kernel or signal, which together form an influence field. Conditionally on the parameters, the influence field acts as a spatial covariate in the intensity of the model, and the intensity itself is a non-linear function of the parameters. Points outside the observation window may affect the influence field inside the window. We propose an edge correction to account for this missing data. The parameters of the model are estimated in a Bayesian framework using Markov chain Monte Carlo where a Laplace approximation is used for the Gaussian field of the LGCP model. The proposed model is used to analyze the effect of large trees on the success of regeneration in uneven-aged forest stands in Finland.
Use of participatory mapping approaches for activity space studies: a brief overview of pros and cons
Authors: Hasanzadeh Kamyar
Published: August 2021

Participatory mapping approaches have raised increasing interest in a variety of fields of research and practice during the past two decades. However, their use in modeling and studying individual mobility and activity spaces is rather recent and limited. This paper focuses on the use of public participation GIS (PPGIS) data in activity space modeling and analysis and aims to draw more scholarly attention to the existing research potentials in this area. While reviewing the pros of using PPGIS for activity space studies, this paper also discusses the existing limitations and outlines how they can be addressed in future research. PPGIS effectively enables collecting data from larger samples, making it possible to conduct more comprehensive geospatial and statistical analyses on the data. Additionally, the strong link between individuals and places in PPGIS data facilitates more person-based approaches in investigating person-environment relationships. However, use of PPGIS for activity space studies comes with analytical and data quality challenges that need to be thoroughly taken into consideration. Particularly, future research needs to seek new ways of including the temporal dimension in PPGIS and find new methods of using the data for activity space modeling and analysis.
Edinburgh Lamarckians? The Authorship of Three Anonymous Papers (1826–1829)
Authors: Corsi Pietro
Published: August 2021

In the space of four years, from 1826 to 1829, theEdinburgh New Philosophical Journalpublished three anonymous articles seemingly advocating doctrines inspired by Jean-Baptiste Lamarck. Decades of scholarship have initially attributed the most outspoken of the three articles, the 1826 “Observations on the Nature and Importance of Geology,” to Robert Grant, and subsequently to Robert Jameson, thanks to a critical reassessment by James Secord (1991). More recently, scholars have also ascribed to Jameson an article published in 1829, “Of the Continuity of the Animal Kingdom by Means of Generation from the First Ages of the World to the Present Times.” A third short contribution, the 1827 “Of the Changes which Life has Experienced on the Globe” has been credited to the Franco-German Ami Boué. Research undertaken over several years has led to the identification of the three authors hiding behind the veil of anonymity. They were not the ones scholars have agreed upon, nor were they really “Lamarckians.” The discussion of the ways in which the three texts reached Edinburgh broadens our understanding of the daily working practices of contemporary periodicals and of the networks of circulation of texts at the Continental level. Finally, when considered within their proper conceptual and social context, the three articles throw light on the many ways in which, during the 1820s, European amateurs, naturalists, and journalists debated the succession of life forms throughout the history of the Earth.
Development of the Perth Adolescent Worry Scale (PAWS)
Authors: Hunter Simon C. , Houghton Stephen , Kyron Michael , Lawrence David , Page Andrew C. , Chen Wai , Macqueen Leslie
Published: August 2021

Tools to assess worry among adolescents exist but do not capture the content of worries. This study reports on the development of a brief, psychometrically sound measure of worry for use with adolescents. Phase 1 involved identification of 27 potential items from existing instruments as well as item generation identified in interviews with students, teachers, school psychologists, and parents. In Phase 2, the candidate items were completed by 835 Australian adolescents (317 males, 508 females, 10 unspecified; Mean age = 13.55, SD = 1.31) from Grades 5 to 10. These data were randomly split in half, and an exploratory factor analysis on the first half identified a two-factor solution with 12 items: Peer Relationships (6 items) and Academic Success and the Future (6 items). On the second half of the data, confirmatory factor analyses supported the factor structure and supported strong invariance across age, socioeconomic status, and presence/absence of a diagnosed neurodevelopmental disorder. Weak invariance was evident across sex. Differences across groups are reported as are correlations with indicators of psychological wellbeing. In conclusion, the Perth Adolescent Worry Scale provides both applied professionals and researchers with a short, easy-to-administer, and psychometrically strong instrument to evaluate adolescents’ everyday worries.
Biocompatibility studies of polyurethane electrospun membranes based on arginine as chain extender
Authors: Venegas-Cervera Georgina Alejandra , Oliva Andrés Iván , Avila-Ortega Alejandro , Cervantes-Uc José Manuel , Carrillo-Cocom Leydi Maribel , Juarez-Moreno Juan Antonio
Published: August 2021

Electrospun polymers are an example of multi-functional biomaterials that improve the material-cellular interaction and aimed at enhancing wound healing. The main objective of this work is to fabricate electrospun polyurethane membranes using arginine as chain extender (PUUR) in order to test the fibroblasts affinity and adhesion on the material and the polymer toxicity. Polyurethane membranes were prepared in two steps: (i) the polyurethane synthesis, and ii) the electrospinning process. The membranes were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy, gel permeation chromatography, and differential scanning calorimetry techniques. The evaluation of PUUR as a scaffolding biomaterial for growing and developing of cells on the material was realized by LIVE/DEAD staining. The results show that the fluorescent surface area of human fibroblasts (hFB), was greater in control dense membranes made from Tecoflex than in electrospun and dense PUUR. From SEM analysis, the electrospun membranes show relatively uniform attachment of cells with a well-spread shape, while Tecoflex dense membranes show a non-proliferating round shape, which is attributed to the fiber’s structure in electrospun membranes. The cell morphology and the cell attachment assay results reveal the well spreading of hFB cells on the surface of electrospun PUUR membranes which indicates a good response related to cell adhesion.
Positive Illusions: The Role of Cognitive Distortions Related to Gambling and Temporal Perspective in Chasing Behavior
Authors: Nigro Giovanna , Matarazzo Olimpia , Ciccarelli Maria , Pizzini Barbara , Sacco Mariagiulia , Cosenza Marina
Published: August 2021

Chasing, or continuing to gamble to recoup previous losses, is a behavioral marker and a diagnostic criterion for gambling disorder. Even though chasing has been recognized to play a central role in gambling disorder, research on chasing is still relatively scarce. This study first empirically investigated the interplay between cognitive distortions related to gambling, temporal perspective, and chasing behavior in a sample of habitual gamblers. Two hundred and fifty-five adults took part in the study. Participants completed the South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS), the Gambling Related Cognitions Scale (GRCS), the 14-item Consideration of Future Consequences scale (CFC-14), and performed a computerized task assessing chasing behavior. Participants were randomly assigned to three experimental conditions (Control, Loss, and Win). Hierarchical logistic regression analysis showed that the decision to chase depended on scores on the CFC-14 Immediate scale and the GRCS dimensions Gambling Expectancies and Interpretative Bias. Hierarchical linear regression analysis indicated that, chasing frequency was affected by Loss condition, distortions related to gambling expectancies and predictive control, as well as by myopia for the future. Interestingly, the results of path analysis clearly indicated that some cognitions related to gambling predict chasing frequency not only directly, but also indirectly via shortened time horizon. Notably, gambling severity did not predict either the decision to chase, or the chasing persistence. These findings provide further evidence that nonchasers and chasers seem to belong to two quite distinct subtypes of gamblers. Such a difference could be useful for targeting more effective intervention strategies in gambling disorder treatment.
Deconstructing orchestration load: comparing teacher support through mirroring and guiding
Authors: Amarasinghe Ishari , Hernández-Leo Davinia , Ulrich Hoppe H.
Published: August 2021

Under the notion of “CSCL scripts”, different pedagogical models for structuring and supporting collaboration in the classroom have been proposed. We report on a practical experience with scripts based on the Pyramid collaborative learning flow pattern supported by a specific classroom tool and a teacher-facing dashboard that implements mirroring and guiding support. The input data of our analysis stems from recordings of classroom interactions guided by several teachers using the PyramidApp with different levels of teaching support. For the analysis, we introduce a specific coding scheme enabling a quantitative comparison and deeper analysis using epistemic network analysis. The results show that the guiding support enabled teachers to perform more orchestration actions, more targeted interactions and to make more announcements to the class (regarding time, phase transitions, and students’ activity participation) when compared to the mirroring support. Teachers’ actionable differences observed under the mirroring and guiding support directed us to deconstruct the notion of orchestration load into different facets and to discuss how different support provisions correspond to the different facets of orchestration load.
A Grounded Theory Study: How Non-Treatment-Seeking Substance Users Make Sense of Their Behaviour “I Want To Be Me but I Don’t Know Who Me Is”
Authors: Lawson Sarah , Griffiths Helen
Published: August 2021

Despite the global impact of substance misuse, there are inadequate levels of specialist service provision and continued difficulties with treatment engagement. Within policy and research, there is substantial consideration of the importance of these factors. However, there is little empirical evidence of the views of non-treatment-seeking substance users, who make up the majority of the substance using population. The aim of this study was to understand how these individuals make sense of their behaviour and their reasons for not accessing treatment. A constructivist grounded theory approach was used to interview eight individuals who were currently using substances and not seeking help to stop. The analysis highlighted the importance of attachment to an identity associated with substance use, and relational variables such as connectedness to others, for treatment decisions for individuals who use substances. Understanding these influences, through trauma- and attachment-informed service provision, may reduce barriers to help-seeking and improve treatment uptake.
CT-guided percutaneous drainage of abdominopelvic collections: a pictorial essay
Authors: De Filippo Massimo , Puglisi Sara , D’Amuri Fabiano , Gentili Francesco , Paladini Ilaria , Carrafiello Gianpaolo , Maestroni Umberto , Del Rio Paolo , Ziglioli Francesco , Pagnini Francesco
Published: August 2021

CT-guided percutaneous drainage is a safe and effective procedure that allows minimally invasive treatment of abdominopelvic abscesses and fluid collections. This technique has become an alternative for surgery with lower morbility and mortality rates. In this pictorial essay, we aim at providing an overview of the technical approaches, the main clinical indications and complications of CT-guided percutaneous drainage, in order to provide a practical guide for interventional radiologists, with a review of the recent literature. The focus will be the CT-guidance, preferred when the interposition of viscera, vascular and skeletal structures, counteracts the ultrasound guidance.
Surgical workflow recognition with 3DCNN for Sleeve Gastrectomy
Authors: Zhang Bokai , Ghanem Amer , Simes Alexander , Choi Henry , Yoo Andrew
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Surgical workflow recognition is a crucial and challenging problem when building a computer-assisted surgery system. Current techniques focus on utilizing a convolutional neural network and a recurrent neural network (CNN–RNN) to solve the surgical workflow recognition problem. In this paper, we attempt to use a deep 3DCNN to solve this problem.

Methods

In order to tackle the surgical workflow recognition problem and the imbalanced data problem, we implement a 3DCNN workflow referred to as I3D-FL-PKF. We utilize focal loss (FL) to train a 3DCNN architecture known as Inflated 3D ConvNet (I3D) for surgical workflow recognition. We use prior knowledge filtering (PKF) to filter the recognition results.

Results

We evaluate our proposed workflow on a large sleeve gastrectomy surgical video dataset. We show that focal loss can help to address the imbalanced data problem. We show that our PKF can be used to generate smoothed prediction results and improve the overall accuracy. We show that the proposed workflow achieves 84.16% frame-level accuracy and reaches a weighted Jaccard score of 0.7327 which outperforms traditional CNN–RNN design.

Conclusion

The proposed workflow can obtain consistent and smooth predictions not only within the surgical phases but also for phase transitions. By utilizing focal loss and prior knowledge filtering, our implementation of deep 3DCNN has great potential to solve surgical workflow recognition problems for clinical practice.
Associations between biomarkers of multimorbidity burden and mortality risk among patients with acute dyspnea
Authors: Wessman Torgny , Tofik Rafid , Ruge Thoralph , Melander Olle
Published: August 2021

The patients’ burden of comorbidities is a cornerstone in risk assessment, clinical management and follow-up. The aim of this study was to evaluate if biomarkers associated with comorbidity burden can predict outcome in acute dyspnea patients. We included 774 patients with dyspnea admitted to an emergency department and measured 80 cardiovascular protein biomarkers in serum collected at admission. The number of comorbidities for each patient were added, and a multimorbidity score was created. Eleven of the 80 biomarkers were independently associated with the multimorbidity score and their standardized and weighted values were summed into a biomarker score of multimorbidities. The biomarker score and the multimorbidity score, expressed per standard deviation increment, respectively, were related to all-cause mortality using Cox Proportional Hazards Model. During long-term follow-up (2.4 ± 1.5 years) 45% of the patients died and during short-term follow-up (90 days) 12% died. Through long-term follow-up, in fully adjusted models, the HR (95% CI) for mortality concerning the biomarker score was 1.59 (95% CI 1348–1871) and 1.18 (95% CI 1035–1346) for the multimorbidity score. For short-term follow-up, in the fully adjusted model, the biomarker score was strongly related to 90-day mortality (HR 1.98, 95% CI 1428–2743), whereas the multimorbidity score was not significant. Our main findings suggest that the biomarker score is superior to the multimorbidity score in predicting long and short-term mortality. Measurement of the biomarker score may serve as a biological fingerprint of the multimorbidity score at the emergency department and, therefore, be helpful for risk prediction, treatment decisions and need of follow-up both in hospital and after discharge from the emergency department.
Estimation of Bone Trace Elements Following Prolonged Every-other Day Feeding in C57BL/6 Male and Female Mice
Authors: Zgutka Katarzyna , Piotrowska Katarzyna , Bosiacki Mateusz , Pawlik Andrzej , Tarnowski Maciej
Published: August 2021

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of prolonged every-other day (EOD) feeding on bone trace elements. Four-week old C57BL/6 female (n = 12) and male (n = 12) mice were employed in this experiment. Animals were assigned to four groups: ad libitum—AL (males and females), EOD fed (males, females). After 9 months, the mice were sacrificed. Long bones (humerus and radius) were isolated and prepared for analysis using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry to determine the Fe, Zn, Mo, Co, Cu, Mn, Cr contents. Estimation of cathepsin K expression on bone slides was performed to determine the activity of osteoclasts in bones of EOD- and AL-fed animals. Higher content of Fe in EOD-fed females compared to AL-fed females was found. In EOD-fed males, a significantly higher amount of Mo (p < 0.005) and Co (p < 0.05) in comparison to AL-fed males was noted. Gender differences in amounts of trace elements in control AL-fed males vs. females were observed. EOD feeding influences the amount of some trace elements in long bones of female and male C57BL/6 mice. However, this is not influenced by the activity of bone cells.
Occurrence of Volcanogenic Inorganic Mercury in Wild Mice Spinal Cord: Potential Health Implications
Authors: Navarro-Sempere A. , García M. , Rodrigues A. S. , Garcia P. V. , Camarinho R. , Segovia Y.
Published: August 2021

Mercury accumulation has been proposed as a toxic factor that causes neurodegenerative diseases. However, the hazardous health effects of gaseous elemental mercury exposure on the spinal cord in volcanic areas have not been reported previously in the literature. To evaluate the presence of volcanogenic inorganic mercury in the spinal cord, a study was carried out in São Miguel island (Azores, Portugal) by comparing the spinal cord of mice exposed chronically to an active volcanic environment (Furnas village) with individuals not exposed (Rabo de Peixe village), through the autometallographic silver enhancement histochemical method. Moreover, a morphometric and quantification analysis of the axons was carried out. Results exhibited mercury deposits at the lumbar level of the spinal cord in the specimens captured at the site with volcanic activity (Furnas village). A decrease in axon calibre and axonal atrophy was also observed in these specimens. Given that these are relevant hallmarks in the neurodegenerative pathologies, our results highlight the importance of the surveillance of the health of populations chronically exposed to active volcanic environments.
Effect of Anti-inflammatory Treatment with AMD3100 and CX3CR1 Deficiency on GABAA Receptor Subunit and Expression of Glutamate Decarboxylase Isoforms After Stroke
Authors: Michalettos Georgios , Walter Helene L. , Antunes Ana Rita Pombo , Wieloch Tadeusz , Talhada Daniela , Ruscher Karsten
Published: August 2021

Following stroke, attenuation of detrimental inflammatory pathways might be a promising strategy to improve long-term outcome. In particular, cascades driven by pro-inflammatory chemokines interact with neurotransmitter systems such as the GABAergic system. This crosstalk might be of relevance for mechanisms of neuronal plasticity, however, detailed studies are lacking. The purpose of this study was to determine if treatment with 1,1′-[1,4-phenylenebis(methylene)]bis[1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane] (AMD3100), an antagonist to the C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4) and partial allosteric agonist to CXCR7 (AMD3100) alone or in combination with C-X3-C chemokine receptor type 1 (CX3CR1) deficiency, affect the expression of GABAA subunits and glutamate decarboxylase (GAD) isoforms. Heterozygous, CX3CR1-deficient mice and wild-type littermates were subjected to photothrombosis (PT). Treatment with AMD3100 (0.5 mg/kg twice daily i.p.) was administered starting from day 2 after induction of PT until day 14 after the insult. At this time point, GABAA receptor subunits (α3, β3, δ), GAD65 and GAD67, and CXCR4 were analyzed from the peri-infarct tissue and homotypic brain regions of the contralateral hemisphere by quantitative real-time PCR and Western Blot. Fourteen days after PT, CX3CR1 deficiency resulted in a significant decrease of the three GABAA receptor subunits in both the lesioned and the contralateral hemisphere compared to sham-operated mice. Treatment with AMD3100 promoted the down-regulation of GABAA subunits and GAD67 in the ipsilateral peri-infarct area, while the β3 subunit and the GAD isoforms were up-regulated in homotypic regions of the contralateral cortex. Changes in GABAA receptor subunits and GABA synthesis suggest that the CXCR4/7 and CX3CR1 signaling pathways are involved in the regulation of GABAergic neurotransmission in the post-ischemic brain.
Sozialpädagogisches Wissen vermitteln
Authors: Engelbracht Mischa
Published: August 2021

Wenn über die Vermittlung sozialpädagogischen Wissens nachgedacht wird, stellt insbesondere die Breite des Feldes der sozialpädagogischen Qualifikationsangebote eine besondere Herausforderung dar. Neben verschiedenen Orten finden sich unterschiedliche Niveaustufen der Qualifikation. Ein Ort sind dabei die Fachschulen für Sozialpädagogik, an denen auf dem Niveau der Kinderpfleger_innen/Sozialassistent_innen (DQR 4) und Erzieher_innen (DQR 6) ausgebildet wird. Dem Prinzip der doppelten Vermittlungspraxis folgend, gilt es für Überlegungen zur Sozialpädagogik und ihrer Didaktik entsprechend die Orte, Qualifikationsstufen und auch den Transfer des Wissens zwischen den Orten und Niveaustufen zu berücksichtigen.
Consciousness and Intentionality in Franz Brentano
Authors: Antonelli Mauro
Published: August 2021

The paper argues against the growing tendency to interpret Brentano’s conception of inner consciousness in self-representational terms. This trend has received support from the tendency to see Brentano as a forerunner of contemporary same-order theories of consciousness and from the view that Brentano models intransitive consciousness on transitive consciousness, such that a mental state is conscious insofar as it is aware of itselfas an object. However, this reading fails to take into account the Brentanian concept of object, which is ultimately derived from ancient and medieval philosophy, as well as the secondary, elusive character that Brentano attributes to inner perception. According to Brentano, we have an aspectual but transparent consciousness of transcendent objects, whereas our awareness of our own mental acts is always complete but incidental, and ultimately opaque. Reversing the relationship between intentionality and consciousness faces difficulties at the textual interpretative level, but also raises theoretical problems, for it risks treating Brentano’s theory of mind as a form of subjectivism and idealism.
From virtual to real healing: a critical overview of the therapeutic use of virtual reality to cope with mourning
Authors: Pizzoli Silvia Francesca Maria , Monzani Dario , Vergani Laura , Sanchini Virginia , Mazzocco Ketti
Published: August 2021

In recent years, virtual reality (VR) has been effectively employed in several settings, ranging from health care needs to leisure and gaming activities. A new application of virtual stimuli appeared in social media: in the documentary ‘I met you’ from the South-Korean Munhwa Broadcasting, a mother made the experience of interacting with the avatar of the seven-year-old daughter, who died four years before. We think that this new application of virtual stimuli should open a debate on its possible implications: it represents contents related to grief, a dramatic and yet natural experience, that can have deep psychological impacts on fragile subjects put in virtual environments. In the present work, possible side-effects, as well as hypothetical therapeutical application of VR for the treatment of mourning, are discussed.
Emotional intelligence in Greek teacher education: Findings from a short intervention
Authors: Kyriazopoulou  , Pappa Sotiria
Published: August 2021

Emotional intelligence (EI) is widely known to be crucial for professional development in education, and it is a curricular component of Greek teacher education. Still, there is little information available on student teachers’ EI. The aim of this study was to explore whether student teachers’ trait EI can be developed through a two-week, EI-focused intervention. The study followed a quasi-experimental design with a mixed method approach, using the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire-Short Form (Greek version) (N = 42) and reflective emotion diaries (N = 19). The participants were third-year undergraduate students studying primary education and teaching at the University of Crete. While the results from the statistical analysis showed no development of student teachers’ trait EI, the findings from the thematic analysis of the reflective emotion diaries suggested that this intervention was beneficial, facilitating emotion identification and potentially enabling emotion regulation through increased self-awareness. The study concludes with a discussion of its limitations and practical implications for future intervention studies on EI.
Rare lung cancers—Primary pulmonary leiomyosarcoma: A case report
Authors: Nagl Laurenz , Seeber Andreas , Widmann Gerlig , Schmitz Katja , Maier Herbert , Pall Georg , Wolf Dominik , Pircher Andreas
Published: August 2021

Primary pulmonary sarcomas (PPS) are rare mesenchymal lung cancers, which do not present clinically or radiological different to lung carcinomas. Definite PPS diagnosis can only be made by histological analysis and detailed staging examinations in order to exclude a secondary pulmonary malignancy such as metastatic soft tissue sarcoma or another solid tumour. Here we present the case of a 66-year-old woman with a pulmonary mass infiltrating the diaphragm and the mediastinal adipose tissue, which was identified as leiomyosarcoma. The patient received curative surgery with complete tumour R0 resection. The prognosis of PPS is defined by tumour size, lymph node status and histological grading. Surgery is the mainstay of therapy and there is no definitive indication for adjuvant therapy for R0-resected and lymph-node-negative patients like in our case. However, multimodal therapy approaches such as (neo)adjuvant chemo- and radiotherapy can contribute to improving locoregional tumour control, which is the most important prognostic factor. With our case report we want to raise awareness for pulmonary sarcomas as a relevant proportion of rare lung cancers which have to be kept in mind during the differential diagnosis. Moreover, we aim to discuss the complex and individual interdisciplinary management.
Update Ichthyosen
Authors: Schmuth M.
Published: August 2021

Ichthyosen sind generalisierte Verhornungsstörungen, die sich durch sichtbare Schuppung und/oder Hyperkeratosen der Haut manifestieren. Der klinische Ausprägungsgrad und die Ätiologie sind heterogen. Zahlreiche verschiedene Mutationen in Genen mit Bedeutung für die Keratinozytendifferenzierung und epidermale Barrierefunktion wurden beschrieben. Für die klinische Differenzialdiagnose ist das Leitsymptom der generalisierten Schuppung herausfordernd. Die vorliegende Übersichtsarbeit beschreibt die wichtigsten differenzialdiagnostischen Kriterien und therapeutischen Möglichkeiten.
Transcatheter tricuspid valve repair: early experience in the Netherlands
Authors: Meijerink F. , Koch K. T. , de Winter R. J. , Holierook M. , Rensing B. J. W. M. , Timmers L. , Eefting F. D. , Swaans M. J. , Bouma B. J. , Baan J.
Published: August 2021

Background

Symptomatic tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is increasingly prevalent and impairs quality of life and survival, despite medical treatment. Transcatheter tricuspid valve repair (TTVR) has recently become available as a treatment option for patients not eligible for tricuspid valve surgery. In this study we describe the early experience with TTVR in the Netherlands.

Methods

All consecutive patients scheduled for TTVR in two tertiary hospitals were included in the current study. Patients were symptomatic and had severe functional TR. TTVR was performed either with the MitraClip (off-label use) or dedicated TriClip delivery system and device. Procedural success was defined as achievement of clip implantation, TR reduction ≥ 1 grade and no need for re-do surgical or transcatheter intervention. Clinical improvement was evaluated after 4 weeks.

Results

Twenty-one patients (median age 78 years, 33% male, 95% New York Heart Association class ≥ 3, 100% history of atrial fibrillation) underwent TTVR. Procedural success was achieved in 16 patients, of whom 15 reported symptomatic improvement (New York Heart Association class 1 or 2). There was no in-hospital mortality and no major complications occurred. Baseline glomerular filtration rate and TR coaptation gap size were associated with procedural success.

Conclusion

The current study showed that TTVR seems a promising treatment option for patients with severe functional TR deemed high risk for surgery. Successful TR reduction is most likely in patients with limited coaptation gap size and strongly determines clinical benefit. Adequate patient selection and timing of treatment seem essential for an optimal patient outcome.
Low SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence but high perception of risk among healthcare workers at children’s hospital before second pandemic wave in Germany
Authors: Neumann Marietta , Aigner Annette , Rossow Eileen , Schwarz David , Marschallek Maria , Steinmann Jörg , Stücker Ralf , Koenigs Ingo , Stock Philippe
Published: August 2021

Background

Healthcare workers are considered a particularly high-risk group during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Healthcare workers in paediatrics are a unique subgroup: they come into frequent contact with children, who often experience few or no symptoms when infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and, therefore, may transmit the disease to unprotected staff. In Germany, no studies exist evaluating the risk of COVID-19 to healthcare workers in paediatric institutions.

Methods

We tested the staff at a large children’s hospital in Germany for immunoglobulin (Ig) G antibodies against the nucleocapsid protein of SARS-CoV-2 in a period between the first and second epidemic wave in Germany. We used a questionnaire to assess each individual’s exposure risk and his/her own perception of having already been infected with SARS-CoV-2.

Results

We recruited 619 participants from all sectors, clinical and non-clinical, constituting 70% of the entire staff. The seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies was 0.325% (95% confidence interval 0.039–1.168). Self-perceived risk of a previous SARS-CoV-2 infection decreased with age (odds ratio, 0.81; 95% confidence interval, 0.70–0.93). Having experienced symptoms more than doubled the odds of a high self-perceived risk (odds ratio, 2.18; 95% confidence interval, 1.59–3.00). There was no significant difference in self-perceived risk between men and women.

Conclusions

Seroprevalence was low among healthcare workers at a large children’s hospital in Germany before the second epidemic wave, and it was far from a level that confers herd immunity. Self-perceived risk of infection is often overestimated.
Prey preferences, consumption rates and predation effects of Asian shore crabs (Hemigrapsus takanoi) in comparison to native shore crabs (Carcinus maenas) in northwestern Europe
Authors: Cornelius Annika , Wagner Katerina , Buschbaum Christian
Published: August 2021

The Asian brush-clawed shore crabHemigrapsus takanoiwas introduced to the northern Wadden Sea (southeastern North Sea) in 2009 and now represents one of the most abundant brachyuran crab species. Abundance studies revealed an increase of mean crab densities on mixed reefs of native blue mussels (Mytilus edulis) and Pacific oysters (Magallana gigas) from 18 individuals m−2in 2011 to 216 individuals m−2in 2020. Despite its current high densities only little is known about the feeding habits ofH. takanoi, its effects on prey populations and on the associated community in the newly invaded habitat. We summarize results of individual field and laboratory experiments that were conducted to assess feeding habits and consumption effects caused by Asian brush-clawed shore crabs and, additionally, compare the feeding ecology ofH. takanoiwith the one of the native shore crabCarcinus maenas. Field experiments manipulating crab densities revealed that both crab species affected the recruitment success of blue mussels, Pacific oysters and Australian barnacles (Austrominius modestus) with highest number of recruits at crab exclusion. However, endobenthic polychaetes within the reefs were differently affected. Only the nativeC. maenascaused a significant reduction in polychaete densities, whereas the introducedH. takanoihad no effect. Additional comparative laboratory studies revealed that singleC. maenasconsume more juvenile blue mussels than Asian brush-clawed shore crabs of the same size class. When offering amphipods as a mobile prey species, we found the same pattern with higher consumption rates byC. maenasthan byH. takanoi.For Asian but not for native shore crabs, we detected a sex-dependent feeding behavior with maleH. takanoipreferring blue mussels, while females consumed more amphipods. Considering mean crab densities and feeding behavior, our results suggest that despite lower consumption rates of single crabs, Asian brush-clawed shore crabs can cause stronger impacts on prey organisms than the nativeC. maenas,becauseH. takanoiexceeds their densities manifold. A strong impact of the invader on prey populations is supported by low amphipod occurrence at sites whereH. takanoidensity is high in the study area. Thus, the introduced Asian brush-clawed shore crab is an additional consumer with significant effects on the associated community of mixed reefs of mussels and oysters in the Wadden Sea.
Continuing the sequence? Towards an economic evaluation of whole genome sequencing for the diagnosis of rare diseases in Scotland
Authors: Abbott Michael , McKenzie Lynda , Moran Blanca Viridiana Guizar , Heidenreich Sebastian , Hernández Rodolfo , Hocking-Mennie Lynne , Clark Caroline , Gomes Joana , Lampe Anne , Baty David , McGowan Ruth , Miedzybrodzka Zosia , Ryan Mandy
Published: August 2021

Novel developments in genomic medicine may reduce the length of the diagnostic odyssey for patients with rare diseases. Health providers must thus decide whether to offer genome sequencing for the diagnosis of rare conditions in a routine clinical setting. We estimated the costs of singleton standard genetic testing and trio-based whole genome sequencing (WGS), in the context of the Scottish Genomes Partnership (SGP) study. We also explored what users value about genomic sequencing. Insights from the costing and value assessments will inform a subsequent economic evaluation of genomic medicine in Scotland. An average cost of £1,841 per singleton was estimated for the standard genetic testing pathway, with significant variability between phenotypes. WGS cost £6625 per family trio, but this estimate reflects the use of WGS during the SGP project and large cost savings may be realised if sequencing was scaled up. Patients and families valued (i) the chance of receiving a diagnosis (and the peace of mind and closure that brings); (ii) the information provided by WGS (including implications for family planning and secondary findings); and (iii) contributions to future research. Our costings will be updated to address limitations of the current study for incorporation in budget impact modelling and cost-effectiveness analysis (cost per diagnostic yield). Our insights into the benefits of WGS will guide the development of a discrete choice experiment valuation study. This will inform a user-perspective cost–benefit analysis of genome-wide sequencing, accounting for the broader non-health outcomes. Taken together, our research will inform the long-term strategic development of NHS Scotland clinical genetics testing services, and will be of benefit to others seeking to undertake similar evaluations in different contexts.