bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electroconvulsive Therapy and Movement Disorders. New Perspectives on A Time‐Tested Therapy
Authors: Garcia Ruiz Pedro J.
Published: March 2021

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has been a very well known therapy in Psychiatry for over 80 years. ECT is considered useful in treating acute mania, severe depression and other psychiatric conditions. Over time, this therapy has also been used in several movement disorders including Parkinson disease (PD) and Huntington disease (HD). In this brief review, I summarize the recent History and evolution of ECT, its proven and potential applications in movement disorders as well as its potential mechanisms.
Acting Assistant Secretary Coderre discusses recovery, SAMHSA priorities
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: February 2021

In an interview last month with Mental Health Weekly, Acting Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Tom Coderre discussed his recovery journey, the significance of peers and SAMHSA programs that have seen significant increases.
Imperfect spoiling in variable flip angle T1 mapping at 7T: Quantifying and minimizing impact
Authors: Corbin Nadège , Callaghan Martina F.
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The variable flip angle (VFA) approach to T1 mapping assumes perfectly spoiled transverse magnetisation at the end of each repetition time (TR). Despite radiofrequency (RF) and gradient spoiling, this condition is rarely met, leading to erroneous T1 estimates (). Theoretical corrections can be applied but make assumptions about tissue properties, for example, a global T2 time. Here, we investigate the effect of imperfect spoiling at 7T and the interaction between the RF and gradient spoiling conditions, additionally accounting for diffusion. We provide guidance on the optimal approach to maximise the accuracy of the T1 estimate in the context of 3D multi‐echo acquisitions.

Methods

The impact of the spoiling regime was investigated through numerical simulations, phantom and invivo experiments.

Results

The predicted dependence of on tissue properties, system settings, and spoiling conditions was observed in both phantom and in vivo experiments. Diffusion effects modulated the dependence of on both efficiency and T2 times.

Conclusion

Error in can be minimized by using an RF spoiling increment and gradient spoiler moment combination that minimizes T2‐dependence and safeguards image quality. Although the diffusion effect was comparatively small at 7T, correction factors accounting for this effect are recommended.
Organische Chemie
Authors: Paradies Jan , Andexer Jennifer , Beifuss Uwe , Beuerle Florian , Brasholz Malte , Breinbauer Rolf , Ernst Martin , Ganardi Ruth , Gulder Tobias A. M. , Hüttel Wolfgang , Kath‐Schorr Stephanie , Körber Karsten , Kordes Markus , Lehmann Matthias , Lindel Thomas , Luy Burkhard , Mück‐Lichtenfeld Christian , Muhle‐Goll Claudia , Niemeyer Jochen , Pfau Roland , Pietruszka Jörg , Röckl Johannes L. , Schaschke Norbert , Senge Mathias O. , Straub Bernd F. , Waldvogel Siegfried R. , Werner Thomas , Werz Daniel B. , Winter Christian
Published: March 2021

Elektrochemische Synthese – Naturstoffe und deren Synthese – photokatalytische Redoxchemie – Farbstoffe – Nanostrukturen – Wirkstoffe – asymmetrische Katalyse und mehr.
Top Ten der Chemie
Authors: Bulmahn Maren
Published: March 2021

Jedes Jahr sucht die International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry nach Techniken, die Wissenschaft und Industrie verändern können.
Das Erfinden erleichtern
Authors: Herr Jasmin Martha
Published: March 2021

Eine neu bei der GDCh eingerichtete Stiftung hilft beim Patentieren: Der Dres.‐Volker‐und‐Elke‐Münch‐Preis für Wissenschaft und Forschung unterstützt mit 5000 Euro eine Patentanmeldung beim Deutschen Patent‐ und Markenamt.
Namen und Geschlechter im Wandel
Authors: Junkers Tanja , Pecher Lisa
Published: March 2021

Für Wissenschaftler:innen, die Namen und Geschlechterrolle wechseln, können neben der Belastung, die dieser Prozess mit sich bringt, Publikationen unter altem Namen Unannehmlichkeiten und Diskriminierung verursachen. Neue Richtlinien bei den Verlagen von Chemiefachzeitschriften bieten einen Ausweg und sorgen somit für Gleichstellung.
The extracellular matrix molecules versican and hyaluronan in urethral and vaginal tissues in stress urinary incontinence
Authors: Harten Ingrid A. , Evanko Stephen P. , Choe Chong H. , Lee Eugene W. , Patel Bhavin N. , Bogdani Marika , Wight Thomas N. , Lee Una J.
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Abnormal extracellular matrix (ECM) changes are correlated with stress urinary incontinence (SUI). The ECM components versican (Vcan) and hyaluronan (HA) play key roles in regulating tissue inflammation and maintaining connective tissue homeostasis. We analyzed the localization and expression of these ECM components in urethral and vaginal tissues from a rat model of urinary incontinence and from human clinical specimens.

Methods

Nulliparous rats underwent vaginal distension (VD), a rodent model of SUI, or a sham procedure. Tissues were harvested from six rats per group at days 1, 4, and 21 for immunohistochemistry and RNA expression analysis of ECM components. Periurethral vaginal samples from female patients with SUI were also examined.

Results

High‐intensity staining for Vcan was observed 1 day after procedure in both control and VD animals. This level of abundance persisted at day 4 in VD compared to control, with concurrent reduced messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of the Vcan‐degrading enzymes ADAMTS5 and ADAMTS9 and reduced staining for the Vcan cleavage epitope DPEAAE. Abundance of HA was not different between VD and control, however mRNA expression of the HA synthase Has2 was significantly reduced in VD tissues at day 4. Abundant Vcan staining was observed in 60% of SUI patient samples, which was strongest in regions of disrupted elastin.

Conclusion

Reduction of Vcan‐degrading enzymes and HA synthases at day 4 postsurgery indicates a potential delay in ECM turnover associated with SUI. Abundant Vcan is associated with inflammation and elastin fiber network disruption, warranting further investigation to determine its role in SUI pathogenesis.
An integer program and new lower bounds for computing the strong rainbow connection numbers of graphs
Authors: Smith Logan A. , Mildebrath David , Hicks Illya V.
Published: March 2021

We present an integer programming model to compute the strong rainbow connection number, src(G), of any simple graph G. We introduce several enhancements to the proposed model, including a fast heuristic, and a variable elimination scheme. Moreover, we present a novel lower bound for src(G) which may be of independent research interest. We solve the integer program both directly and using an alternative method based on iterative lower bound improvement, the latter of which we show to be highly effective in practice. To our knowledge, these are the first computational methods for the strong rainbow connection problem. We demonstrate the efficacy of our methods by computing the strong rainbow connection numbers of graphs containing up to 379 vertices.
An analysis of decomposition of consumption function between male and female households in India
Authors: Pradhan Kailash Chandra
Published: March 2021

This paper offers to examine the decomposition of the consumption function of the male and female households in India. The decomposition of consumption function is explained by the socio‐economic and demographic variables. The dataset on the 61st round (2004–2005) and 68th round (2011–2012) of NSSO has been used for the analysis. The ordinary least squares (OLS) method is used to explain the important determinants of household consumption expenditure. Also, the Blinder–Oaxaca (B‐O) decomposition technique is used to estimate and to explain the difference of the per capita consumption expenditure of male and female households. The results find that age, household size, education, wages, occupation, and rural dummy are key determinants of the consumption function of male and female households. The results also found that the impact of education and occupation particularly in the service sector is relatively higher for female households than male households. Moreover, the results from the B‐O decomposition method are found that there is a positive gap of per capita consumption expenditure between male–female households in 2004–2005 and these differences are coming from differences of endowment effect between male and female households. But, the results from the year 2011–2012 data have shown that there is a negative mean difference in consumption expenditure of male and female households and this difference is coming from the differences of coefficient effect between male and female households. Finally, the results concluded that the per capita consumption expenditure gap is explained due to changes in education, occupation, and earnings of households.
Discrimination at the Intersection of Age, Race, and Gender: Evidence from an Eye‐Tracking Experiment
Authors: Lahey Joanna N. , Oxley Douglas R.
Published: March 2021

This paper uses a laboratory experiment with eye‐tracking and about 6,000 unique randomized resumes to explore the effects of race on employment discrimination over the life cycle for experienced applicants in their mid 30s to 70s. We find striking evidence of race discrimination against prime‐age Black job applicants that diminishes into middle age before re‐emerging for older applicants. Screeners in professional programs mechanically process Black and White resumes similarly, but spend less time on resumes for the younger Black applicants. We find evidence of levels‐based statistical discrimination, suggesting that screeners believe younger Black applicants to have worse computer skills and more gaps in their job histories. We also find evidence for variance‐based statistical discrimination against Black applicants of all ages, suggesting that screeners perceive the job history signal to be stronger for White applicants than for Black, disproportionately affecting older Black applicants. Evidence from a smaller companion study using Human Resources (HR) managers and from the Current Population Survey (CPS) supports the external validity of our experiment, particularly for female job applicants. Results are robust to a number of different controls and specification choices.
Higgs‐Bosonen im Supraleiter
Authors: Schwarz Lukas , Kaiser Stefan , Manske Dirk
Published: March 2021

Das Standardmodell postuliert ein Higgs‐Feld, das durch den Higgs‐Mechanismus die Masse aller Teilchen erzeugt. In Supraleitern existiert eine Analogie dazu, wobei das Cooper‐Paar‐Kondensat die Rolle des Higgs‐Feldes einnimmt. Eine Anregung des Higgs‐Feldes, das Higgs‐Boson oder die Higgs‐Mode, ist damit auch in Supraleitern möglich. Da im Gegensatz zum Standardmodell das Higgs‐Feld im Supraleiter eine innere Struktur besitzt, ist das beobachtbare Spektrum komplexer und erlaubt eine Spektroskopie von Higgs‐Moden. Mit dem neuen Werkzeug eröffnet sich auch ein neuer Einblick in den immer noch nicht verstandenen Mechanismus der Hochtemperatursupraleitung.
Regenmessung im Mobilfunknetz
Authors: Graf Maximilian , Polz Julius , Chwala Christian
Published: March 2021

Das möglichst exakte Erfassen des Niederschlags ist ein grundlegender Bestandteil der Klima‐ und Umweltforschung sowie für verschiedene Anwendungen, beispielsweise in der Landwirtschaft. Eine neue Art der Niederschlagsmessung ermöglicht das Mobilfunknetz in Deutschland mittels Richtfunkstrecken (Commercial Microwave Link, CML). Der große Vorteil dieser Methode liegt in der potenziell weltweit nutzbaren Infrastruktur. Die Qualität der Niederschlagserfassung mit etwa 4000 CML in Deutschland weist eine hohe Übereinstimmung mit dem offiziellen Messnetz des Deutschen Wetterdienstes auf.
Physiker, Pazifist und Pole
Authors: Loos Andreas
Published: March 2021

„Der gute, klare Gedanke führt den Menschen zur Güte, zur Loyalität, denn diese Vorzüge machen das Leben einfacher, ausgefüllter und reicher; wir verringern so das Unglück in unserer Umgebung, verringern die Reibung mit der Umwelt, in der wir leben.“
Max Frischs Homo Naturalis
Authors: Mecke Klaus
Published: March 2021

Angesichts der Menschliches übersteigenden Zeitskalen der Geophysik und der eigenen Vergänglichkeit stellt sich für den Schriftsteller ein ästhetisch‐ethisches Problem: Was ist mit Sprache über den Menschen sagbar?
Ultrasound‐guided percutaneous needle tenotomy (PNT) alone versus PNT plus platelet‐rich plasma injection for the treatment of chronic tendinosis: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kirschner Jonathan S. , Cheng Jennifer , Hurwitz Nicole , Santiago Kristen , Lin Emerald , Beatty Nicholas , Kingsbury Dallas , Wendel Ian , Milani Carlo
Published: March 2021

Background

Tendinosis is a chronic degenerative condition. Current research suggests both percutaneous needle tenotomy (PNT) and leukocyte‐rich platelet‐rich plasma (LR‐PRP) may be effective treatments for chronic tendinosis, but no studies have assessed the effectiveness of PNT alone versus PNT with intratendinous LR‐PRP for multiple tendon types in a single study.

Objective

To assess the efficacy of PNT versus PNT + LR‐PRP to treat chronic tendinosis.

Study Design

Double‐blind, randomized, controlled comparative treatment study.

Setting

Primary academic institution.

Participants

A convenience sample of 40 participants who had chronic tendinosis (rotator cuff, wrist extensor, wrist flexor, hip abductor, proximal hamstring, patellar, or Achilles) confirmed via ultrasound, failed conservative treatment, and did not have tendon tears, known coagulopathy, or systemic illnesses.

Interventions

Participants were randomly assigned to PNT (n = 19) or PNT + LR‐PRP (n = 21). Participants and outcomes assessors were blinded to treatment assignments. PNT was performed with 20–30 passes of a 22‐gauge needle under ultrasound guidance, with 1% lidocaine given outside the tendon. LR‐PRP was processed from whole blood (30–60 mL) and injected into the affected tendon using the same PNT technique.

Main Outcome Measures

Primary outcome was current numerical rating scale pain at 6 weeks. Secondary outcomes were average pain, function, general well‐being, and sleep quality at 6, 52, and 104 weeks.

Results

Baseline characteristics were similar between groups. Overall, there were no significant differences between groups over time for any of the outcomes (P > .05). Between‐group analyses showed significantly lower current and average pain after PNT compared to PNT + LR‐PRP at 6 weeks (estimated‐mean [SE]: 3.1[0.4] vs. 4.6[0.6], P = .04; 3.4[0.4] vs. 4.9[0.5], P = .03) only. Adverse event rates were low (PNT‐3.9%; PNT + LR‐PRP‐5.0%) and related primarily to postprocedural pain and inflammation.

Conclusions

Although pain scores were lower after PNT compared to PNT + LR‐PRP at 6 weeks, there were no between‐group differences in outcomes at 52 or 104 weeks.
Quality Assessment of the CL‐20/HMX Cocrystal Utilising Digital Image Processing
Authors: Herrmannsdörfer Dirk , Klapötke Thomas M.
Published: March 2021

The reduction of liquid and gas inclusions in the crystals is an effective strategy for the production of reduced sensitivity high explosives. Assessment of the achieved crystal quality is paramount for the improvement of the crystallisation techniques. Here we present the quality evaluation of the CL‐20/HMX cocrystal obtained from semibatch reaction cocrystallisation (SBRC), batch reaction cocrystallization (BRC), and antisolvent crystallisation by comparison of the results of digital image processing of photomicrographs of crystals immersed in an optically equally dense liquid, 1H NMR, HPLC, GC, helium pycnometry, SEM, pXRD, and DSC. It was found that digital image processing is capable of differentiation between crystal qualities of batches that are indistinguishable by all the other listed methods. It presents itself as a very promising tool for crystal quality assessment and improvement. The analysis shows that SBRC can produce coarse crystals of the same quality on a pilot plant scale as antisolvent crystallisation on a laboratory scale.
Congenital bronchobiliary fistula: a case report and literature review
Authors: Thuong Vu Le , Minh Duc Nguyen , Tra My Thieu‐Thi , Tan Lien Bang Mai , Tuan Linh Le , Quynh Huong Tran
Published: March 2021

Congenital bronchobiliary fistula (CBBF) is a very rare malformation associated with clinical symptoms of dyspnoea, vomiting, cyanosis, persistent pneumonia, and poor response to antibiotics. Typical imaging techniques used to diagnose this malformation include bronchography, computed tomography (CT), cholangiography, hepatobiliary nuclear imaging, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We diagnosed a case of CBBF that was initially diagnosed as non‐resolving pneumonia. CT and fistulography were used to obtain the correct diagnosis. The fistula was confirmed by fistulography under the guidance of bronchoscopy. Surgical excision of the fistulous tract was performed, with complete recovery. The aim of this report was to emphasize the epidemiology and clinical features of CBBF patients.
Novel nanomaterial–organism hybrids with biomedical potential
Authors: Li Benke , Cui Yihao , Wang Xiaoyu , Tang Ruikang
Published: March 2021

Instinctive hierarchically biomineralized structures of various organisms, such as eggs, algae, and magnetotactic bacteria, afford extra protection and distinct performance, which endow fragile organisms with a tenacious ability to adapt and survive. However, spontaneous formation of hybrid materials is difficult for most organisms in nature. Rapid development of chemistry and materials science successfully obtained the combinations of organisms with nanomaterials by biomimetic mineralization thus demonstrating the reproduction of the structures and functions and generation of novel functions that organisms do not possess. The rational design of biomaterial–organism hybridization can control biological recognition, interactions, and metabolism of the organisms. Thus, nanomaterial–organism hybrids represent a next generation of organism engineering with great potential biomedical applications. This review summarizes recent advances in material‐directed organism engineering and is mainly focused on biomimetic mineralization technologies and their outstanding biomedical applications. Three representative types of biomimetic mineralization are systematically introduced, including external mineralization, internal mineralization, and genetic engineering mineralization. The methods involving hybridization of nanomaterials and organisms based on biomimetic mineralization strategies are described. These strategies resulted in applications of various nanomaterial–organism hybrids with multiplex functions in cell engineering, cancer treatment, and vaccine improvement. Unlike classical biological approaches, this material‐based bioregulation is universal, effective, and inexpensive. In particular, instead of traditional medical solutions, the integration of nanomaterials and organisms may exploit novel strategies to solve current biomedical problems.

This article is categorized under:

Implantable Materials and Surgical Technologies > Nanomaterials and Implants

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Oncologic Disease

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Infectious Disease
Strong Convergence of the Vorticity for the 2D Euler Equations in the Inviscid Limit
Authors: Ciampa Gennaro , Crippa Gianluca , Spirito Stefano
Published: March 2021

In this paper we prove the uniform-in-time $$L^p$$

L
p

convergence in the inviscid limit of a family $$\omega ^\nu $$

ω
ν

of solutions of the 2D Navier–Stokes equations towards a renormalized/Lagrangian solution $$\omega $$
ω
of the Euler equations. We also prove that, in the class of solutions with bounded vorticity, it is possible to obtain a rate for the convergence of $$\omega ^{\nu }$$

ω
ν

to $$\omega $$
ω
in $$L^p$$

L
p

. Finally, we show that solutions of the Euler equations with $$L^p$$

L
p

vorticity, obtained in the vanishing viscosity limit, conserve the kinetic energy. The proofs are given by using both a (stochastic) Lagrangian approach and an Eulerian approach.
Effect of aspect ratio and inlet manifold shape on the laminar-to-turbulent transition of gas flow in rectangular microchannels
Authors: Rehman Danish , Barattini Davide , Hong Chungpyo , Morini Gian Luca
Published: March 2021

A combined experimental and numerical study on the laminar-to-turbulent transition in microchannels using gas flow is presented. The effects of two geometric parameters, namely aspect ratio (height to width) of microchannels and inlet manifold shape, are considered on the value assumed by the critical Reynolds number linked to the laminar-to-turbulent transition. To study the effect of aspect ratio, seven rectangular microchannels having an aspect ratio between 0.25 and 1.04 are micro-milled in PMMA plastic with a constant length of 100 mm. Four rectangular microchannels with different inlet shapes, namely sudden contraction, rounded entrance, V shape and bellmouth, are fabricated to analyze the effects of inlet shape. Pressure loss analyses are then performed for all 11 microchannels by evaluating both average and semi-local friction factors. The Reynolds number in correspondence of which the transition takes place is determined by observing the trend of the friction factor. In parallel, numerical simulations using an intermittency-based transitional turbulence model are also performed and results are compared with the experiments. Experimental and numerical results have demonstrated that both of the investigated geometrical characteristics (aspect ratio and inlet manifold shape) play an important role on the range of the Reynolds number between the onset of transition and the onset of fully turbulent regime for gas microflows. Experimental critical Reynolds numbers show a good agreement with the predictions of the conventional theory and are in the range of 1863–3470 for all the tested microchannels. The role of gas compressibility on the laminar-to-turbulent transition is also discussed.

Graphic abstract
Non-Stokesian flow through ordered thin porous media imaged by tomographic-PIV
Authors: Forslund Tobias O. M. , Larsson I. A. Sofia , Lycksam Henrik , Hellström J. Gunnar I. , Lundström T. Staffan
Published: March 2021

The 3D flow-fields in a staggered and cubic arrangement of mono-radii cylinders are investigated using tomographic-PIV. The cylinder Reynolds-number is in the range of $$\approx 10$$

≈
10

to $$\approx 800$$

≈
800

giving an almost complete overview of the transition region. Two pore-scale effects are discovered. The first, visible in the cubic packing, is a spatially alternating lateral velocity field, which has a significant impact on the pressure drop and transversal dispersion. The second effect, present in the staggered array, is an example of a disturbance propagation effect that takes place in the laminar steady region; this manifests as a peculiar and complex flow-pattern. In accordance with other studies, it is shown that Darcy’s law can, from an engineering point of view be valid far beyond the limit for Stokesian flow.

Graphic abstract
A global systematic review and meta-analysis on laparoscopic vs open right hemicolectomy with complete mesocolic excision
Authors: Anania Gabriele , Arezzo Alberto , Davies Richard Justin , Marchetti Francesco , Zhang Shu , Di Saverio Salomone , Cirocchi Roberto , Donini Annibale
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of right hemicolectomy with CME performed with laparoscopic and open surgery.

Methods

PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Data, Google Scholar and the ClinicalTrials.gov register were searched. Primary outcome was the overall number of harvested lymph nodes. Secondary outcomes were short and long-term course variables. A meta-analysis was performed to calculate risk ratios.

Results

Twenty-one studies were identified with 5038 patients enrolled. The difference in number of harvested lymph nodes was not statistically significant (MD 0.68, − 0.41–1.76, P = 0.22). The only RCT shows a significant advantage in favour of laparoscopy (MD 3.30, 95% CI − 0.20–6.40, P = 0.04). The analysis of CCTs showed an advantage in favour of the laparoscopic group, but the result was not statically significantly (MD − 0.55, 95% CI − 0.57–1.67, P = 0.33). The overall incidence of local recurrence was not different between the groups, while systemic recurrence at 5 years was lower in laparoscopic group. Laparoscopy showed better short-term outcomes including overall complications, lower estimated blood loss, lower wound infections and shorter hospital stay, despite a longer operative time. The rate of anastomotic and chyle leak was similar in the two groups.

Conclusions

Despite the several limitations of this study, we found that the median number of lymph node harvested in the laparoscopic group is not different compared to open surgery. Laparoscopy was associated with a lower incidence of systemic recurrence.
The redox dependence of titanium isotope fractionation in synthetic Ti-rich lunar melts
Authors: Rzehak Laura J. A. , Kommescher Sebastian , Kurzweil Florian , Sprung Peter , Leitzke Felipe P. , Fonseca Raúl O. C.
Published: March 2021

Equilibria between Ti oxides and silicate melt lead to Ti isotope fractionation in terrestrial samples, with isotopically light Ti oxides and isotopically heavy coexisting melt. However, while Ti is mostly tetravalent in terrestrial samples, around 10% of the overall Ti is trivalent at fO2 relevant to lunar magmatism (~ IW-1). The different valences of Ti in lunar samples, could additionally influence Ti stable isotope fractionation during petrogenesis of lunar basalts to an unknown extent. We performed an experimental approach using gas mixing furnaces to investigate the effect of Ti oxide formation at different fO2 on Ti stable isotope fractionation during mare basalt petrogenesis. Two identical bulk compositions were equilibrated simultaneously during each experiment to guarantee comparability. One experiment was investigated with the EPMA to characterize the petrology of experimental run products, whereas the second experiment was crushed, and fabricated phases (i.e., oxides, silicates and glass) were handpicked, separated and digested. An aliquot of each sample was mixed with a Ti double-spike, before Ti was separated from matrix and interfering elements using a modified HFSE chemistry. Our study shows fO2-dependent fractionation within seven samples from air to IW-1, especially ∆49Tiarmalcolite-melt and ∆49Tiarmalcolite-orthopyroxene become more fractionated from oxidized to reduced conditions (− 0.092 ± 0.028-  − 0.200 ± 0.033 ‰ and  − 0.089 ± 0.027- − 0.250 ± 0.049 ‰, respectively), whereas ∆49Tiorthopyroxene-melt shows only a minor fractionation (− 0.002 ± 0.017-0.050 ± 0.025 ‰). The results of this study show that Ti isotope fractionation during mare basalt petrogenesis is expected to be redox dependent and mineral-melt fractionation as commonly determined for terrestrial fO2 may not be directly applied to a lunar setting. This is important for the evaluation of Ti isotope fractionation resulting from lunar magmatism, which takes place under more reducing conditions compared to the more oxidized terrestrial magmatism.
Local cooling during hot water immersion improves perceptions without inhibiting the acute interleukin-6 response
Authors: Mansfield R. G. , Hoekstra S. P. , Bill J. J. , Leicht Christof A.
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Passive elevation of body temperature can induce an acute inflammatory response that has been proposed to be beneficial; however, it can be perceived as uncomfortable. Here, we investigate whether local cooling of the upper body during hot water immersion can improve perception without inhibiting the interleukin-6 (IL-6) response.

Methods

Nine healthy male participants (age: 22 ± 1 years, body mass: 83.4 ± 9.4 kg) were immersed up to the waist for three 60-min water immersion conditions: 42 °C hot water immersion (HWI), 42 °C HWI with simultaneous upper-body cooling using a fan (FAN), and 36 °C thermoneutral water immersion (CON). Blood samples to determine IL-6 plasma concentration were collected pre- and post-water immersion; basic affect and thermal comfort were assessed throughout the intervention.

Results

Plasma IL-6 concentration was higher for HWI and FAN when compared with CON (P < 0.01) and did not differ between HWI and FAN (P = 0.22; pre to post, HWI: 1.0 ± 0.6 to 1.5 ± 0.7 pg·ml−1, FAN: 0.7 ± 0.5 to 1.1 ± 0.5 pg·ml−1, CON: 0.5 ± 0.2 to 0.5 ± 0.2 pg·ml−1). At the end of immersion, basic affect was lowest for HWI (HWI: − 1.8 ± 2.0, FAN: 0.2 ± 1.6, CON 1.0 ± 2.1, P < 0.02); thermal comfort for HWI was in the uncomfortable range (3.0 ± 1.0, P < 0.01 when compared with FAN and CON), whereas FAN (0.7 ± 0.7) and CON (-0.2 ± 0.7) were in the comfortable range.

Conclusion

Local cooling of the upper body during hot water immersion improves basic affect and thermal comfort without inhibiting the acute IL-6 response.
Individual characteristics associated with the magnitude of heat acclimation adaptations
Authors: Alkemade Puck , Gerrett Nicola , Eijsvogels Thijs M. H. , Daanen Hein A. M.
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The magnitude of heat acclimation (HA) adaptations varies largely among individuals, but it remains unclear what factors influence this variability. This study compared individual characteristics related to fitness status and body dimensions of low-, medium-, and high responders to HA.

Methods

Twenty-four participants (9 female, 15 male; maximum oxygen uptake [$$\dot{{V}}$$

V
˙

O2peak,kg] 52 ± 9 mL kg−1 min−1) completed 10 daily controlled-hyperthermia HA sessions. Adaptations were evaluated by heat stress tests (HST; 35 min cycling 1.5 W  kg−1; 33 °C, 65% relative humidity) pre- and post-HA. Low-, medium-, and high responder groups were determined based on tertiles (n = 8) of individual adaptations for resting rectal temperature (Tre), exercise-induced Tre rise (ΔTre), whole-body sweat rate (WBSR), and heart rate (HR).

Results

Body dimensions (p > 0.3) and $$\dot{{V}}$$

V
˙

O2peak,kg (p > 0.052) did not differentiate low-, medium-, and high responders for resting Tre or ΔTre. High WBSR responders had a larger body mass and lower body surface area-to-mass ratio than low responders (83.0 ± 9.3 vs 67.5 ± 7.3 kg; 249 ± 12 vs 274 ± 15 cm2 kg−1, respectively; p < 0.005). Conversely, high HR responders had a smaller body mass than low responders (69.2 ± 6.8 vs 83.4 ± 9.4 kg; p = 0.02). $$\dot{{V}}$$

V
˙

O2peak,kg did not differ among levels of responsiveness for WBSR and HR (p > 0.3).

Conclusion

Individual body dimensions influenced the magnitude of sudomotor and cardiovascular adaptive responses, but did not differentiate Tre adaptations to HA. The influence of $$\dot{{V}}$$

V
˙

O2peak,kg on the magnitude of adaptations was limited.
Endogenous anandamide and self-reported pain are significantly reduced after a 2-week multimodal treatment with and without radon therapy in patients with knee osteoarthritis: a pilot study
Authors: Gaisberger M. , Fuchs J. , Riedl M. , Edtinger S. , Reischl R. , Grasmann G. , Hölzl B. , Landauer F. , Dobias H. , Eckstein F. , Offenbächer M. , Ritter M. , Winklmayr M.
Published: March 2021

Multimodal therapies comprising spa applications are widely used as non-pharmaceutical treatment options for musculoskeletal diseases. The purpose of this randomized, controlled, open pilot study was to elucidate the involvement of the endocannabinoid system in a multimodal therapy approach. Twenty-five elderly patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) received a 2-week spa therapy with or without combination of low-dose radon therapy in the Bad Gastein radon gallery. A 10-point numerical rating scale (pain in motion and at rest), WOMAC questionnaire, and the EuroQol-5D (EQ-5D) questionnaire were recorded at baseline, and during treatment period at weeks one and two, and at 3-month and 6-month follow-ups. Plasma levels of the endocannabinoid anandamide (AEA) were determined at baseline and at 2 weeks, and serum levels of several cartilage metabolism markers at all five time-points. A significant and sustained reduction of self-reported knee pain was observed in the study population, but no further significant effect of the additional radon therapy up and above base therapy. This pain reduction was accompanied by a significant reduction of AEA plasma levels during treatment in both groups. No significant differences were seen in serum marker concentrations between the groups treated with or without radon, but a small reduction of serum cartilage degradation markers was observed during treatment in both groups. This is the first study investigating AEA levels in the context of a non-pharmacological OA treatment. Since the endocannabinoid system represents a potential target for the development of new therapeutics, further studies will have to elucidate its involvement in OA pain.
The ubiquity of uncertainty: a scoping review on how undergraduate health professions’ students engage with uncertainty
Authors: Moffett Jenny , Hammond Jennifer , Murphy Paul , Pawlikowska Teresa
Published: March 2021

Although the evidence base around uncertainty and education has expanded in recent years, a lack of clarity around conceptual terms and a heterogeneity of study designs means that this landscape remains indistinct. This scoping review explores how undergraduate health professions' students learn to engage with uncertainty related to their academic practice. To our knowledge, this is the first scoping review which examines teaching and learning related to uncertainty across multiple health professions. The scoping review is underpinned by the five-stage framework of (Arksey and O'Malley in Scoping studies: Towards a methodological framework International Journal of Social Research Methodology 8(1) 19-32, 2005). We searched MEDLINE, Embase, PsychINFO, ISI Web of Science, and CINAHL and hand-searched selected health professions’ education journals. The search strategy yielded a total of 5,017 articles, of which 97 were included in the final review. Four major themes were identified: “Learners’ interactions with uncertainty”; “Factors that influence learner experiences”; “Educational outcomes”; and, “Teaching and learning approaches”. Our findings highlight that uncertainty is a ubiquitous concern in health professions’ education, with students experiencing different forms of uncertainty at many stages of their training. These experiences are influenced by both individual and system-related factors. Formal teaching strategies that directly support learning around uncertainty were infrequent, and included arts-based teaching, and clinical case presentations. Students also met with uncertainty indirectly through problem-based learning, clinical teaching, humanities teaching, simulation, team-based learning, small group learning, tactical games, online discussion of anatomy topics, and virtual patients. Reflection and reflective practice are also mentioned as strategies within the literature.
Thai patients who fulfilled NCCN criteria for breast/ovarian cancer genetic assessment demonstrated high prevalence of germline mutations in cancer susceptibility genes: implication to Asian population testing
Authors: Lertwilaiwittaya Pongtawat , Roothumnong Ekkapong , Nakthong Panee , Dungort Peerawat , Meesamarnpong Chutima , Tansa-Nga Warisara , Pongsuktavorn Khontawan , Wiboonthanasarn Supakit , Tititumjariya Warunya , Thongnoppakhun Wanna , Chanprasert Sirisak , Limwongse Chanin , Pithukpakorn Manop
Published: March 2021

Background

Germline genetic mutation plays a significant role in breast cancer susceptibility. The strength of such predisposition varies among ethnic groups across the globe, and clinical data from Asian population to develop a strategic approach to who should undergo a genetic test are lacking.

Methods

We performed a multigene test with next generation sequencing in Thai patients whose clinical history fulfilled NCCN criteria for breast/ovarian cancer genetic assessment, consists of 306 breast cancer patients, 62 ovarian cancer patients, 14 pancreatic cancer patients and 7 prostate cancer patients. Genetic test result and clinical history were then checked with each NCCN criteria to determined detection rate for each indication.

Results

There were 83 pathogenic/likely pathogenic (P/LP) variants identified in 104 patients, 44 of these P/LP variants were novel. We reported a high rate of germline P/LP variants in breast cancer (24%), ovarian cancer (37%), pancreatic cancer (14%), and prostate cancer (29%). Germline P/LP variants in BRCA1 and BRCA2 accounted for 80% of P/LP variants found in breast cancer and 57% of P/LP variants found in ovarian cancer. The detection rate of patients who fulfilled NCCN 2019 guideline for genetic/familial high-risk assessment of breast and ovarian cancers was 22–40%.

Conclusion

Overall, the data from this study strongly support the consideration of multigene panel test as a diagnostic tool for patients with inherited cancer susceptibility in Thailand and Asian population. Implementation of the NCCN guideline is applicable, some modification may be needed to be more suitable for Asian population.
Tracing groundwater circulation in a valuable mineral water basin with geochemical and isotopic tools: the case of FERRARELLE, Riardo basin, Southern Italy
Authors: Sacchi Elisa , Cuoco Emilio , Oster Harald , Paolucci Vittorio , Tedesco Dario , Viaroli Stefano
Published: March 2021

The Riardo basin hosts groundwater exploited for the production of high quality, naturally sparkling, bottled water (e.g., Ferrarelle water), and circulating in a system constituted by highly fractured Mesozoic carbonates, overlain by more impervious volcanic rocks of the Roccamonfina complex. The two formations are locally in hydraulic connection and dislocated by deep-rooted faults. The study aimed at elucidating groundwater origin and circulation, using isotopic tracers (δ18O, δ2H, δ11B and 87Sr/86Sr) coupled to groundwater dating (Tritium, CFCs and SF6). Besides recharge by local precipitation over the Riardo hydrogeological basin, stable isotope ratios in water indicated an extra-basin recharge, likely from the elevated surrounding carbonate reliefs (e.g., Maggiore and Matese Mts.). The mineralization process, promoted by the deep CO2 flux, controls the B and Sr contents. However, their isotopic ratios did not allow discriminating between circulation in the volcanic and in the carbonate aquifers, as in the latter the isotopic composition differed from the original marine signature. Groundwater model ages ranged from ~ 30 years for the volcanic endmember to > 70 years for the deep, mineralized end-member, with longer circuits recharged at higher elevations. Overall, the results of this study were particularly relevant for mineral water exploitation. A recharge from outside the hydrogeological basin could be evidenced, especially for the more mineralized and valuable groundwater, and an active recent recharge was detected for the whole Riardo system. Both findings will contribute to the refinement of the hydrogeological model and water budget, and to a sustainable development of the resource.
Dicarbonyl stress, protein glycation and the unfolded protein response
Authors: Rabbani Naila , Xue Mingzhan , Thornalley Paul J.
Published: March 2021

The reactive dicarbonyl metabolite, methylglyoxal (MG), is increased in obesity and diabetes and is implicated in the development of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus and vascular complications of diabetes. Dicarbonyl stress is the metabolic state of abnormal high MG concentration. MG is an arginine-directed glycating agent and precursor of the major advanced glycation endproduct, arginine-derived hydroimidazolone MG-H1. MG-H1 is often formed on protein surfaces and an uncharged hydrophobic residue, inducing protein structural distortion and misfolding. Recent studies indicate that dicarbonyl stress in human endothelial cells and fibroblasts in vitro induced a proteomic response consistent with activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR). The response included: increased abundance of heat shock proteins and ubiquitin ligases catalysing the removal of proteins with unshielded surface hydrophobic patches and formation of polyubiquitinated chains to encapsulate misfolded proteins; and increased low grade inflammation. Activation of the UPR is implicated in insulin resistance. An effective strategy to counter increased MG is inducing increased expression of glyoxalase-1 (Glo1). An optimized inducer of Glo1 expression, trans-resveratrol and hesperetin combination, normalized increased MG concentration, corrected insulin resistance and decreased low grade inflammation in overweight and obese subjects. We propose that dicarbonyl stress, through increased formation of MG-glycated proteins, may be an important physiological stimulus of the UPR and Glo1 inducers may provide a route to effective suppression and therapy. With further investigation and validation, this may provide key new insight into physiological activators of the UPR and association with dicarbonyl stress.
Correction to: Precision agriculture research in sub-Saharan Africa countries: a systematic map
Authors: Nyaga Justine M. , Onyango Cecilia M. , Wetterlind Johanna , Söderström Mats
Published: March 2021

A correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11119-021-09796-w
Estimation of stopping times for stopped self-similar random processes
Authors: Schulmann Viktor
Published: March 2021

Let $$X=(X_t)_{t\ge 0}$$

X
=

(

X
t

)

t
≥
0

be a known process and T an unknown random time independent of X. Our goal is to derive the distribution of T based on an iid sample of $$X_T$$

X
T

. Belomestny and Schoenmakers (Stoch Process Appl 126(7):2092–2122, 2015) propose a solution based the Mellin transform in case where X is a Brownian motion. Applying their technique we construct a non-parametric estimator for the density of T for a self-similar one-dimensional process X. We calculate the minimax convergence rate of our estimator in some examples with a particular focus on Bessel processes where we also show asymptotic normality.
Clinical outcome with different doses of low-molecular-weight heparin in patients hospitalized for COVID-19
Authors: Mennuni Marco G. , Renda Giulia , Grisafi Leonardo , Rognoni Andrea , Colombo Crizia , Lio Veronica , Foglietta Melissa , Petrilli Ivan , Pirisi Mario , Spinoni Enrico , Azzolina Danila , Hayden Eyal , Aimaretti Gianluca , Avanzi Gian Carlo , Bellan Mattia , Cantaluppi Vincenzo , Capponi Andrea , Castello Luigi M. , D’Ardes Damiano , Corte Francesco Della , Gallina Sabina , Krengli Marco , Malerba Mario , Pierdomenico Sante D. , Savoia Paola , Zeppegno Patrizia , Sainaghi Pier P. , Cipollone Francesco , Patti Giuseppe ,   the COVID-UPO Clinical Team
Published: March 2021

A pro-thrombotic milieu and a higher risk of thrombotic events were observed in patients with CoronaVirus disease-19 (COVID-19). Accordingly, recent data suggested a beneficial role of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH), but the optimal dosage of this treatment is unknown. We evaluated the association between prophylactic vs. intermediate-to-fully anticoagulant doses of enoxaparin and in-hospital adverse events in patients with COVID-19. We retrospectively included 436 consecutive patients admitted in three Italian hospitals. Outcome according to the use of prophylactic (4000 IU) vs. higher (> 4000 IU) daily dosage of enoxaparin was evaluated. The primary end-point was in-hospital death. Secondary outcome measures were in-hospital cardiovascular death, venous thromboembolism, new-onset acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and mechanical ventilation. A total of 287 patients (65.8%) were treated with the prophylactic enoxaparin regimen and 149 (34.2%) with a higher dosing regimen. The use of prophylactic enoxaparin dose was associated with a similar incidence of all-cause mortality (25.4% vs. 26.9% with the higher dose; OR at multivariable analysis, including the propensity score: 0.847, 95% CI 0.400–0.1.792; p = 0.664). In the prophylactic dose group, a significantly lower incidence of cardiovascular death (OR 0.165), venous thromboembolism (OR 0.067), new-onset ARDS (OR 0.454) and mechanical intubation (OR 0.150) was observed. In patients hospitalized for COVID-19, the use of a prophylactic dosage of enoxaparin appears to be associated with similar in-hospital overall mortality compared to higher doses. These findings require confirmation in a randomized, controlled study.
Effect of sodium bicarbonate solution on methyltrimethoxysilane-derived silica aerogels dried at ambient pressure
Authors: Liu Yujing , Han Xiao , Kuerbanjiang Balati , Lazarov Vlado K. , Šiller Lidija
Published: March 2021

Here we present an economical ambient pressure drying method of preparing monolithic silica aerogels from methyltrimethoxysilane precursor while using sodium bicarbonate solution as the exchanging solvent. We prepared silica aerogels with a density and a specific surface area of 0.053 g·cm−3 and 423 m2·g−1, respectively. The average pore diameter of silica aerogels is 23 nm as the pore specific volume is 1.11 cm3·g−1. Further, the contact angle between water droplet and the surface of silica aerogels in specific condition can be as high as 166°, which indicates a super-hydrophobic surface of aerogels.
A light life together: photosensing in the plant microbiota
Authors: Losi Aba , Gärtner Wolfgang
Published: March 2021

Bacteria and fungi of the plant microbiota can be phytopathogens, parasites or symbionts that establish mutually advantageous relationships with plants. They are often rich in photoreceptors for UVA–Visible light, and in many cases, they exhibit light regulation of growth patterns, infectivity or virulence, reproductive traits, and production of pigments and of metabolites. In addition to the light-driven effects, often demonstrated via the generation of photoreceptor gene knock-outs, microbial photoreceptors can exert effects also in the dark. Interestingly, some fungi switch their attitude towards plants in dependence of illumination or dark conditions in as much as they may be symbiotic or pathogenic. This review summarizes the current knowledge about the roles of light and photoreceptors in plant-associated bacteria and fungi aiming at the identification of common traits and general working ideas. Still, reports on light-driven infection of plants are often restricted to the description of macroscopically observable phenomena, whereas detailed information on the molecular level, e.g., protein–protein interaction during signal transduction or induction mechanisms of infectivity/virulence initiation remains sparse. As it becomes apparent from still only few molecular studies, photoreceptors, often from the red- and the blue light sensitive groups interact and mutually modulate their individual effects. The topic is of great relevance, even in economic terms, referring to plant-pathogen or plant-symbionts interactions, considering the increasing usage of artificial illumination in greenhouses, the possible light-regulation of the synthesis of plant-growth stimulating substances or herbicides by certain symbionts, and the biocontrol of pests by selected fungi and bacteria in a sustainable agriculture.
The Fading Pipeline: Preparing the Next Generation of Weapons Inspectors
Authors: Gromoll Jennie
Published: March 2021

Over the past four decades, the most prolific time in recent memory for the negotiation and implementation of arms control treaties, a cadre of expertise was developed that enabled weapons inspections. Yet the pipeline for educating and developing rising generations to perform such inspections is now running dry, particularly outside of the United States and Europe. In this essay, I argue that we must invigorate efforts to develop and maintain that pipeline. I identify historical sources of expertise in the field of arms control and describe the obstacles that we face in maintaining them. I conclude by offering potential solutions to this problem, arguing that it is time to revitalize platforms for supporting cross-domain, cross-regional, and multi-generational nonproliferation experience and learning opportunities.