bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Persistent hypoxaemia and pulmonary oedema in a horse anaesthetised for emergency exploratory laparotomy
Authors: Testa Barbara , Ward Robert , Schoeffmann Gudrun
Published: April 2023

A 16‐year‐old, 550 kg Connemara gelding was anaesthetised for resection of multiple small intestine strangulating lipomas via ventral midline celiotomy. Severe hypoxaemia, detected throughout the anaesthetic period (lowest PaO258 mmHg [7.6 kPa]), was unresponsive to the ventilatory strategies implemented. Flared nostrils and increased respiratory rate were present at recovery from anaesthesia. When the horse was returned to the yard, bilateral foamy nasal discharge and increased respiratory effort and rate were noticed, consistent with pulmonary oedema. The horse received oxygen supplementation and furosemide, which led to complete resolution within 24 hours.
Noninvasive genetic monitoring of Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) from Darjeeling district of Northwest Bengal, India
Authors: Priyambada Prajnashree , Singh Vinaya K. , Singh Abhishek , Joshi Bheem D. , Dalui Supriyo , Wangmo Lenrik K. , Ghosh Avijit , Thapa Avantika , Singh Sujeet K. , Chandra Kailash , Sharma Lalit K. , Thakur Mukesh
Published: April 2023

Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) has experienced a rapid population decline across its distribution range mainly due to illegal harvesting for scale and local consumption for meat. We monitored 65 burrows of free‐ranging pangolins and collected 147 fecal droppings from five sites in the Darjeeling district of Northwest Bengal in the central Himalayas. On genetic analysis with the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene, we obtained four haplotypes with haplotype diversity of 0.479 ± 0.088. At 15 microsatellite loci, we identified 35 unique genotypes with relatively low level of genetic diversity (Ho‐0.382 ± 0.091). We also estimated the population genetic parameters and demographic history using Bayesian skyline plot which revealed a demographic decline in the population size in the past 200 years. The present study generated the base‐line population genetics estimates of Chinese pangolin, that may be used in genetic monitoring of the population and also aid to the geographical assignment of wildlife crime cases.
Synthesis, characterization, and comparison of explosive hexaamminecobalt(III) and nitropentamminecobalt(III) cyclopentazolate (cyclo‐N5−) salts
Authors: Chen Lei , Jiang Bitao , Zhang Chong , Sun Chengguo , Gao Chao , Du Yang , Hu Bingcheng
Published: April 2023

Metal pentazolate hydrates have attracted attention because of the unique stabilization mechanisms of cyclo‐N5− anions during crystal stacking. However, coordinated H2O molecules influence the stability of cyclo‐N5− anion‐containing salts, and the structure‐property relationship of high‐valent cobalt pentazolate salts has not been previously reported. Werner‐type cobalt(III) cations that trap cyclo‐N5− anions, a novel class of cyclo‐N5−‐based materials, were prepared and characterized by infrared spectroscopy, elemental analysis, electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, and thermogravimetry with differential scanning calorimetry. The [Co(NH3)5(NO2)]2+ cation was also introduced via metathesis reactions to compare the intermolecular interactions in its intriguing structures. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction revealed extensive hydrogen bonding networks in hexaamminecobalt(III) and nitropentamminecobalt(III) cyclo‐N5− salts between cyclo‐N5− anions and NH3 ligands or nitro groups. In addition, [Co(NH3)6(N5)3] (1) and [Co(NH3)5(NO2)](N5)2 (2) exhibited relatively high nitrogen contents of 79.2 % and 67.9 %, respectively, and the impact sensitivities of 1 (IS=5 J) and 2 (IS=4 J) are comparable to that of lead azide.
On the Estimation of Time Varying AR Processes
Authors: Korte Johannes , Schubert Till , Brockmann Jan Martin , Schuh Wolf-Dieter
Published: April 2023

In time series analysis auto regressive (AR) modelling of zero mean data is widely used for system identification, signal decorrelation, detection of outliers and forecasting. An AR process of order p is uniquely defined by r coefficients and the variance of the noise. The roots of the characteristic polynomial can be used as an alternative parametrization of the coefficients, which is used to construct a continuous covariance function of the AR processes or to verify that the AR processes are stationary. In this contribution we propose an approach to estimate an AR process of time varying coefficients (TVAR process). In the literature, roots are evaluated at discrete times, rather than a continuous function like we have for time varying systems. By introducing the assumption that the movement of the roots are linear functions in time, stationarity for all possible epochs in the time domain is easy to accomplish. We will illustrate how this assumption leads to TVAR coefficients where the k-th coefficient is a polynomial of order k with further restrictions on the parameters of the coefficients. At first we study how to estimate TVAR process parameters by using a Least Squares approach in general. As any AR process can be rewritten as a combination of AR processes of order two with two complex conjugated roots and AR processes of order one, we limit our investigations to these orders. Higher order TVAR processes are computed by successively estimating TVAR processes of orders one or two. Based on a simulation, we will demonstrate the advantages of a time varying model and compare them to the stationary time stable model. In addition, we will give a method to identify time series, for which the model of the TVAR processes with linear roots is suitable.
The Legacies: Explaining the Richness and Heterogeneity of European Political Science
Authors: Capano Giliberto , Verzichelli Luca
Published: April 2023

Political science is to be considered a relatively new academic subject within the European scenario, having only seen the light of day during the second half of the twentieth century. Nonetheless, as we have seen in Chap. 1, the discipline has grown significantly thanks to the extension of higher education in all European countries between the 1960s and 1980, to the transition to democracy of the South-European authoritarian regimes, and to the democratization of the former communist regimes in Central-Eastern Europe.
The Current Scenario: Mapping Fragmentation and Transformation in European Political Science
Authors: Capano Giliberto , Verzichelli Luca
Published: April 2023

This chapter offers a comprehensive overview of the state of European political science. Unlike previous selective analyses of the varieties of political science across Europe (for instance, Klingemann, 2007), or recent studies of the evolution of sub-disciplinary domains in Europe (de Sousa et al., 2010), we offer an account of the present scenario by investigating different sources of data including surveys, documentary fonts and qualitative interviews. These facts and figures, indeed, allow us to offer a robust and precise description of the complexity of European political science. In particular, we rely on three types of sources: the 2018–2019 Proseps Survey of European political scientists’ attitudes towards political science; other datasets developed by the same project via flash surveys and initiatives from its internal working groups; and finally, the main findings from more than twenty open-ended interviews with knowledge holders—both young and senior experts in the discipline.
In Vitro Models and Proteomics in Osteoarthritis Research
Authors: Rydén Martin , Önnerfjord Patrik
Published: April 2023

This review summarizes and exemplifies the current understanding of osteoarthritis in vitro models and describes their relevance for new insights in the future of osteoarthritis research. Our friend and highly appreciated colleague, Prof. Alan Grodzinsky has contributed greatly to the understanding of jointtissue biology and cartilage biomechanics. He frequently utilizes in vitro models and cartilage explant cultures, and recent work also includes proteomics studies. This review is dedicated to honor his 75-year birthday and will focus on recent proteomic in vitro studies related to osteoarthritis, and within this topic highlight some of his contributions to the field.
Nanomechanics of Aggrecan: A New Perspective on Cartilage Biomechanics, Disease and Regeneration
Authors: Wang Chao , Kahle Elizabeth R. , Li Qing , Han Lin
Published: April 2023

Articular cartilage is a hydrated macromolecular composite mainly composed of type II collagen fibrils and the large proteoglycan, aggrecan. Aggrecan is a key determinant of the load bearing and energy dissipation functions of cartilage. Previously, studies of cartilage biomechanics have been primarily focusing on the macroscopic, tissue-level properties, which failed to elucidate the molecular-level activities that govern cartilage development, function, and disease. This chapter provides a brief summary of Dr. Alan J. Grodzinsky’s seminal contribution to the understanding of aggrecan molecular mechanics at the nanoscopic level. By developing and applying a series of atomic force microscopy (AFM)-based nanomechanical tools, Grodzinsky and colleagues revealed the unique structural and mechanical characteristics of aggrecan at unprecedented resolutions. In this body of work, the “bottle-brush”-like ultrastructure of aggrecan was directly visualized for the first time. Meanwhile, molecular mechanics of aggrecan was studied using a physiological-like 2D biomimetic assembly of aggrecan on multiple fronts, including compression, dynamic loading, shear, and adhesion. These studies not only generated new insights into the development, aging, and disease of cartilage, but established a foundation for designing and evaluating novel cartilage regeneration strategies. For example, building on the scientific foundation and methodology infrastructure established by Dr. Grodzinsky, recent studies have elucidated the roles of other proteoglycans in mediating cartilage integrity, such as decorin and perlecan, and evaluated the therapeutic potential of biomimetic proteoglycans in improving cartilage regeneration.
Computational Modelling for Managing Pathways to Cartilage Failure
Authors: Miramini Saeed , Smith David W. , Gardiner Bruce S. , Zhang Lihai
Published: April 2023

Over several decades the perception and therefore description of articular cartilage changed substantially. It has transitioned from being described as a relatively inert tissue with limited repair capacity, to a tissue undergoing continuous maintenance and even adaption, through a range of complex regulatory processes. Even from the narrower lens of biomechanics, the engagement with articular cartilage has changed from it being an interesting, slippery material found in the hostile mechanical environment between opposing long bones, to an intriguing example of mechanobiology in action. The progress revealing this complexity, where physics, chemistry, material science and biology are merging, has been described with increasingly sophisticated computational models. Here we describe how these computational models of cartilage as an integrated system can be combined with the approach of structural reliability analysis. That is, causal, deterministic models placed in the framework of the probabilistic approach of structural reliability analysis could be used to understand, predict, and mitigate the risk of cartilage failure or pathology. At the heart of this approach is seeing cartilage overuse and disease processes as a ‘material failure’, resulting in failure to perform its function, which is largely mechanical. One can then describe pathways to failure, for example, how homeostatic repair processes can be overwhelmed leading to a compromised tissue. To illustrate this ‘pathways to failure’ approach, we use the interplay between cartilage consolidation and lubrication to analyse the increase in expected wear rates associated with cartilage defects or meniscectomy.
Dropping Out of Higher Education in Germany: Using Retrospective Life Course Data to Determine Dropout Rates and Destinations of Non-completers
Authors: Tieben Nicole
Published: April 2023

In recent years, the high rates of higher education dropout have raised attention of education research and policy makers in Germany. However, due to data privacy legislation, it remains challenging to obtain information about the individual progress of students through higher education and the destinations of non-completers. With conventional administrative or cross-sectional data, it is not possible to distinguish non-completion from dropout, so that it mostly has to remain unclear if non-completers reach graduation elsewhere. This contribution uses the retrospective life course data of the NEPS starting cohort 6 to empirically disentangle non-completion and dropout of full-time students in higher education. We discuss the methodological challenges of conventional approaches and show how the advantages of retrospective life course data can be exploited for higher education research. We furthermore examine the destinations of non-completers and dropouts as well as the labour market returns of dropouts, using sequence data analyses and logistic regressions. Our results show that conventional designs possibly are prone to overestimate dropout rates. Longitudinal analyses of destinations after dropout reveal that the permeability between vocational training and higher education is not unidirectional. Vocational training is a relevant absorber of higher education dropouts, but at the same time, vocational qualifications that were gained prior to higher education work as safety-net that buffers labour market risks of dropouts.
Studying Influences of Socio-economic Contexts and Spatial Effects on Educational Careers
Authors: Hillmert Steffen , Hartung Andreas , Weßling Katarina
Published: April 2023

Socio-economic contexts and spatial effects have received increasing attention at the intersection of sociology and education. This research group has laid substantial groundwork in this emerging field of research by developing concepts and methodological techniques for analysing spatial contexts, by collecting and preparing relevant contextual data that can be linked with survey data, and by measuring the impact of socio-structural contextual characteristics on educational aspirations and chances of transition from school to vocational and academic training. For at least this specific stage in educational careers, the end of secondary schooling, we have been able to demonstrate that socio-spatial contextual settings (neighbourhoods and regional contexts) are relevant for educational inequalities. Our research has also demonstrated that the relation between socio-economic contexts and inequalities in education is complex. In particular, little is known about the temporal, spatial, and interpersonal variation in contextual effects. This chapter provides an overview of analytical concepts, measurements, and empirical findings that relate socio-spatial context conditions to educational outcomes, and it outlines promising avenues of future research.
Employment-Related Further Training in a Dynamic Labour Market
Authors: Anger Silke , Heß Pascal , Janssen Simon , Leber Ute
Published: April 2023

In recent decades, accelerating technological progress and increasing international trade have not only made labour markets more dynamic but also steadily changed the demand for skills and knowledge. As a result, workers have had to continuously invest in training to update their skills if they want to avoid long-lasting negative consequences for their careers. This project uses data from the adult cohort of the German National Education Panel Study (NEPS) to investigate how workers’ training participation has evolved in dynamic labour markets exposed to technological change and increasing international trade. The study analyses the relationship between workplace automation and employment-related training and shows that the training participation of workers whose jobs were highly exposed to automation was much lower than that of workers whose jobs were less exposed. Moreover, results suggest that employers’ financial support explains the lion’s share of the training gap. Consistent with the new training literature, firms are the main force behind further training investments.
Regional Factors as Determinants of Employees’ Training Participation
Authors: Görlitz Katja , Rzepka Sylvi , Tamm Marcus
Published: April 2023

Although the literature on the determinants of training has considered individual and firm-related characteristics, it has generally neglected regional factors. This is surprising, given the fact that labour markets differ by regions. Regional factors are often ignored because (both in Germany and abroad) many data sets covering training information do not include detailed geographical identifiers that would allow a merging of information on the regional level. The regional identifiers of the National Educational Panel Study (Starting Cohort 6) offer opportunities to advance research on several regional factors. This article summarizes the results from two studies that exploit these unique opportunities to investigate the relationship between training participation and (a) the local level of firm competition for workers within specific sectors of the economy and (b) the regional supply of training measured as the number of firms offering courses or seminars for potential training participants.
Gendered Occupational Aspirations: A Comparison of Young Native-Born and Turkish Minority Women
Authors: Siegert Manuel , Roth Tobias , Kogan Irena
Published: April 2023

Declining birth rates, an ageing population and the goal to remain globally competitive and prosperous puts pressure on the German labour market and increases the demands for greater labour force participation of women. Women with a migration background constitute a growing share of the German population, but a disproportionally lower share of the total labour force. We focused on the gender-specific occupational preferences of female adolescents with a Turkish migration background compared to those without any migration background and related these preferences to the young women’s interests, family orientations, normative gender role perceptions, and the socioeconomic status of the aspired profession in our analyses. Contrary to our expectations, our results indicate that Turkish girls less often aspire to female-dominated occupations than majority native-born girls. Instead, they prefer integrated occupations, which tend to be more prestigious and better paid. This might be mostly due to their ambitious occupational aspirations, because the gap between native-born and Turkish girls is reduced substantively after controlling for aspirations.
Patterns and Predictors of Literacy and Numeracy Development During Adulthood: Insights from Two Longitudinal Assessment Surveys
Authors: Lechner Clemens M.
Published: April 2023

Literacy (reading competence) and numeracy (mathematical competence) are indispensable prerequisites for lifelong learning and participation in today’s knowledge-based societies. However, evidence on the development of these competencies during adulthood is limited. This chapter summarizes the main findings of a research project that leveraged the unique potential of two German longitudinal assessment surveys, NEPS and PIAAC-L, to garner insights into how these competencies develop during adulthood. Both surveys offer repeated measures of adults’ competencies spaced 3–6 years apart, allowing light to be cast on two guiding questions: (1)Patterns of change: Can literacy and numeracy still change in adulthood? If so, does change involve gains or losses, and how is change distributed across sociodemographic subgroups? (2)Predictors of change: Which individual and contextual factors (e.g., participation in job-related training, engagement in literacy or numeracy practice, or basic cognitive skills) predict change in competence development? Findings suggest that competencies continue to develop across the lifespan and can change even over relatively short time periods. Gains and losses occur in equal measure. Moreover, findings pinpoint practice engagement as a crucial driver of change in competencies, while highlighting that practice engagement is itself dependent on a range of individual and contextual characteristics. Methodological insights and avenues for future research that emerged from our project are also discussed.
The Interplay Between Instructional Pace, Skill Externalities, and Student Achievement: An Empirical Assessment
Authors: Kiss David
Published: April 2023

This article empirically validates a theoretical model from Kiss (B.E. J Econ Anal Policy 17:1–10, 2017) that addresses the transmission channels through which increases in peer achievement levels may affect other students’ achievement. In his model, a higher share of better students has two effects: first, weaker students benefit from skill externalities generated by their better classmates. At the same time, however, better students further induce teachers to instruct at a more demanding pace. Based on these two effects, I derive three hypotheses and test them on data on German secondary school students. Empirical findings are consistent with the model’s predictions: increases in the share of better classmates (a) are always beneficial for good students, (b) may hurt weak students, and (c) boost weak students’ achievement if the extent of interaction between better and weaker students is high. Taken together, these findings suggest that encouraging better and weaker students to interact more could be Pareto-improving.
An Illustration of Local Structural Equation Modeling for Longitudinal Data: Examining Differences in Competence Development in Secondary Schools
Authors: Olaru Gabriel , Robitzsch Alexander , Hildebrandt Andrea , Schroeders Ulrich
Published: April 2023

In this chapter, we discuss how a combination of longitudinal modeling and local structural equation modeling (LSEM) can be used to study how students’ context influence their growth in educational achievement. LSEM is a nonparametric approach that allows for the moderation of a structural equation model over a continuous variable (e.g., socio-economic status; cultural identity; age). Thus, it does not require the categorization of continuous moderators as applied in multi-group approaches. In contrast to regression-based approaches, it does not impose a particular functional form (e.g., linear) on the mean-level differences and can spot differences in the variance-covariance structure. LSEM can be used to detect nonlinear moderation effects, to examine sources of measurement invariance violations, and to study moderation effects on all parameters in the model. We showcase how LSEM can be implemented with longitudinal of the National Educational Panel Study (NEPS) using the R-package sirt. In more detail, we examine the effect of parental education on math and reading competence in secondary school across three measurement occasions, comparing LSEM to regression based approaches and multi-group confirmatory factor analysis. Results provide further evidence of the strong influence of the educational background of the family. This chapter offers a new approach to study inter-individual differences in educational development.
Introduction to Climate Change in Central Asia
Authors: Sabyrbekov Rahat , Overland Indra , Vakulchuk Roman
Published: April 2023

This chapter provides a broad introduction to the impact of climate change in Central Asia, a region that has been experiencing a greater rise in temperatures than other parts of the world. The chapter shows how climate change represents a significant threat to Central Asia, exacerbating existing economic and environmental challenges and fueling regional tensions over resource management. Inefficient water resource management at the national level and limited regional collaboration on the management of water resources, coupled with state capacities that remain insufficient to tackle climate change impacts, compound water-related tensions between the countries in the region. The chapter also shows how decarbonisation efforts in Central Asia are still in their early stages, with coal remaining a primary source of energy. Although the Central Asian countries have announced decarbonisation targets and adopted green economy strategies and programmes to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, a large-scale clean energy transition remains unlikely in the short term. The chapter concludes by identifying a lack of scholarship on climate change in Central Asia, which limits the development of a coherent approach to climate change mitigation and adaptation and evidence-based decision-making in the region. The chapter argues that a more coordinated approach to tackling climate change across the region is needed, requiring closer collaboration and more effective joint management of natural resources by the five Central Asian states. Finally, the chapter presents the chapters in the rest of the book.
The Importance of Boosting Societal Resilience in the Fight Against Climate Change in Central Asia
Authors: Bossuyt Fabienne
Published: April 2023

Drawing on post-development thinking, this chapter argues that resilience strategies involving the sharing of responsibilities among individuals and communities will increase the ability of the Central Asian countries to stand up to the impact of climate change. Given that Central Asian societies have a strong tradition of home-grown solidarity movements and locally embedded practices of self-reliance, governments, as well as major international donors such as the European Union, the World Bank and the UNDP should help boost societal resilience to climate change in Central Asia by supporting the ability of local societal actors to self-organise and draw on their own local strengths and knowledge of available resources and infrastructure.
The Culture of Recycling, Re-use and Reduction: Eco-Activism and Entrepreneurship in Central Asia
Authors: Tskhay Aliya
Published: April 2023

While national governments are setting net-zero targets and drawing up strategies to reduce CO2 emissions and meet their Paris Agreement commitments, local entrepreneurs are putting words into action. This paper reviews the waste management situations and national strategies across Central Asian countries in addition to the various enterprises which have sought to improve their local environment and change people’s behaviour and attitudes towards the environment through waste-management initiatives. The case studies include a zero-waste grocery store; the collection, recycling and re-purposing of waste; and the organisation of events to encourage the reduction of consumption and associated waste. These enterprises combine their business models with social awareness programmes to promote more sustainable lifestyles and environmentally friendly habits. The micro-level focus provides an opportunity to see how entrepreneurs and activists in Central Asian cities are filling the gap left by national governments in promoting sustainability.
Central Asian Climate Policy Pledges Under the Paris Agreement: Can They Be Fulfilled?
Authors: Sabyrbekov Rahat , Overland Indra , Vakulchuk Roman
Published: April 2023

The Central Asian region has been and will continue to be significantly impacted by climate change and all the region’s countries have pledged nationally determined contributions (NDCs) under the Paris agreement. This chapter aims to assess how likely Central Asian countries are to fulfil these pledges. To answer this question, we compare the NDCs to their respective national development programmes and historical trends. The results show that the countries of Central Asia vary in their ability to fulfil their pledges and that doing so will require structural changes to their energy systems, substantial investments in infrastructure and, most importantly, the alignment of their development plans with their declared climate goals. None of the countries have thus far engaged in structural reforms aimed at large-scale climate change adaptation and mitigation.
Energy Transition in Central Asia: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Sulaimanova Burulcha , Overland Indra , Sabyrbekov Rahat , Vakulchuk Roman
Published: April 2023

While there is abundant research on the expansion of renewable energy in developed countries, little attention has been paid to the decarbonisation of energy systems in Central Asia, despite the region’s vulnerability to climate change, its rapidly growing domestic energy demand and the abundance of natural resources essential for the energy transition. Based on a systematic review of the literature, this chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the profile and trajectory of research on energy in Central Asia between 1991 and 2022. It finds that there was a shift from focusing on fossil fuels to clean energy around 2019–2020. However, despite recent growth, research on renewables and their significance in Central Asia is still sparse. This review indicates that while American and European researchers took the lead in this field in 2012, China, Japan, Kazakhstan and Russia have emerged as the leading contributors since 2016.
Towards a Geoeconomics of Energy Transition in Central Asia’s Hydrocarbon-Producing Countries
Authors: Zabanova Yana
Published: April 2023

The global energy transition and the growing ambition of decarbonisation policies in the world’s leading economies are bound to affect Central Asia’s three hydrocarbon producers, yet there has been little research on the issue. This chapter uses the theoretical toolbox of geoeconomics to analyse the implications of energy transition for Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan across four dimensions: resources, energy infrastructure, strategic industries and clean energy technologies and the rules of international economic interaction. Kazakhstan remains the region’s renewable energy frontrunner, while Turkmenistan is yet to make its first steps. Despite a late start, Uzbekistan is benefiting from the falling cost of renewable energy technologies and has attracted major industry players. Rather than pursuing fossil-fuel phaseout, these countries seek to capture more value from their hydrocarbon resources—especially natural gas—while adding renewables to the mix to bolster energy security and help decarbonise the economy. However, infrastructure constraints remain an obstacle to low-carbon energy production. Lacking the influence to shape the international rules of engagement on energy transition, the three countries are employing a variety of strategies to manage their asymmetrical dependence on key partners—be they China, the EU or Russia—and to diversify their international engagement.
Optimisation of surface residual stresses using ultrasonic-assisted milling for wire-arc additive manufactured Ni alloy components
Authors: Engelking Lorenz , Eissel Antonia , Schroepfer Dirk , Treutler Kai , Kannengiesser Thomas , Wesling Volker
Published: April 2023

Nickel alloys are cost intensive materials and generally classified as difficult-to-cut material. However, machining of these materials is needed especially in case of alloy 36 (1.3912), which is commonly used in mould construction for the production of fibre-reinforced composites. With regard to repair, modification and manufacturing of such components, additive manufacturing offers significant economic advantages. Nevertheless, subsequent machining steps are needed to achieve the final component contour and defined surface conditions. Dependent on the material and machining process conditions, detrimental tensile residual stresses may be the result on the machined surface, having negative impact on the component performance and safety. In this investigation, machining experiments were carried out on wire arc additive manufactured components made of alloy 36, varying the cutting speed and the feed rate. In addition, the conventional milling process (CM) was compared with a modern, hybrid machining process, the ultrasonic-assisted milling (US). The cutting forces and the surface-near residual stresses were analysed using X-ray diffraction. A significant improvement of the machinability as well as the surface integrity by using the ultrasonic assistance was observed, especially at low cutting speeds. The CM induced mainly tensile residual stresses, the US mainly compressive residual stresses.
3D-printed biomimetic bone implant polymeric composite scaffolds
Authors: Oladapo Bankole , Zahedi Abolfazl , Ismail Sikiru , Fernando Wattala , Ikumapayi Omolayo
Published: April 2023

This research introduced a new poly-ether-ether-ketone calcium hydroxyapatite (PEEK-cHAp) composite for a convenient, fast, and inexpensive femur bone-implant scaffold with different lattice structures to mimic natural bone structure. Fused deposition modelling (FDM) was used to print a hybrid PEEK-based filament-bearing bioactive material suited for developing cHAp. Using FDM, the same bone scaffold PEEK will be fabricated, depending on the shape of the bone fracture. The scaffolds were examined for in vitro bioactivity by immersing them in a simulated bodily fluid (SBF) solution. Furthermore, in vitro cytotoxicity tests validated the suitability of the composite materials employed to create minimal toxicity of the scaffolds. After spreading PEEK nanoparticles in the grains, the suggested spherical nanoparticle cell expanded over time. The motif affected the microstructure of PEEK-cHAp in terms of grain size and 3D shape. The results established the proposed optimum design and suitable material for prospective bone implants, as required for biomimetic artificial bone regeneration and healing.
A novel interdomain consortium from a Costa Rican oil well composed of Methanobacterium cahuitense sp. nov. and Desulfomicrobium aggregans sp. nov.
Authors: Dengler Linda , Meier Julia , Klingl Andreas , Nißl Laura , Bellack Annett , Grohmann Dina , Rachel Reinhard , Huber Harald
Published: April 2023

A novel interdomain consortium composed of a methanogenic Archaeon and a sulfate-reducing bacterium was isolated from a microbial biofilm in an oil well in Cahuita National Park, Costa Rica. Both organisms can be grown in pure culture or as stable co-culture. The methanogenic cells were non-motile rods producing CH4 exclusively from H2/CO2. Cells of the sulfate-reducing partner were motile rods forming cell aggregates. They utilized hydrogen, lactate, formate, and pyruvate as electron donors. Electron acceptors were sulfate, thiosulfate, and sulfite. 16S rRNA sequencing revealed 99% gene sequence similarity of strain CaP3V-M-L2AT to Methanobacterium subterraneum and 98.5% of strain CaP3V-S-L1AT to Desulfomicrobium baculatum. Both strains grew from 20 to 42 °C, pH 5.0–7.5, and 0–4% NaCl. Based on our data, type strains CaP3V-M-L2AT (= DSM 113354 T = JCM 39174 T) and CaP3V-S-L1AT (= DSM 113299 T = JCM 39179 T) represent novel species which we name Methanobacterium cahuitense sp. nov. and Desulfomicrobium aggregans sp. nov.
Moments of the 2D Directed Polymer in the Subcritical Regime and a Generalisation of the Erdös–Taylor Theorem
Authors: Lygkonis Dimitris , Zygouras Nikos
Published: April 2023

We compute the limit of the moments of the partition function $$Z_{N}^{\beta _N} $$

Z

N

β
N

of the directed polymer in dimension $$d=2$$

d
=
2

in the subcritical regime, i.e. when the inverse temperature is scaled as $$\beta _N \sim \hat{\beta } \sqrt{\tfrac{\pi }{\log N}}$$

β
N

∼

β
^

π

log
N

for $$\hat{\beta } \in (0,1)$$

β
^

∈

(
0
,
1
)

. In particular, we establish that for every $$h \in {\mathbb {R}}$$

h
∈
R

, $$ \lim _{N \rightarrow \infty } {{\mathbb {E}}} \big [\big (Z_{N}^{\beta _N}\big )^h \big ]=\big (\frac{1}{1-\hat{\beta }^2}\big )^{\frac{h(h-1)}{2}}.$$

lim

N
→
∞

E

[

(

Z

N

β
N

)

h

]

=

(

1

1
-

β
^

2

)

h
(
h
-
1
)

2

.

We also identify the limit of the moments of the averaged field $$\tfrac{\sqrt{\log N}}{N} \sum _{x \in {\mathbb {Z}}^2} \varphi (\tfrac{x}{\sqrt{N}})\big (Z_{N}^{\beta _N} (x)-1 \big )$$

log
N

N

∑

x
∈

Z

2

φ

(

x

N

)

(

Z

N

β
N

(
x
)

-
1

)

, for $$\varphi \in C_c({\mathbb {R}}^2)$$

φ
∈

C
c

(

R

2

)

, as those of a gaussian free field. As a byproduct, we identify the limiting probability distribution of the total pairwise collisions between h independent, two dimensional random walks starting at the origin. In particular, we derive that $$\begin{aligned} \frac{\pi }{\log N}\sum _{1 \le i<j\le h} {\textsf{L}}_N^{(i,j)}\xrightarrow [N \rightarrow \infty ]{(d)} \Gamma \big ( \tfrac{h(h-1)}{2},1\big ) , \end{aligned}$$

π

log
N

∑

1
≤
i
<
j
≤
h

L
N

(
i
,
j
)

→

N
→
∞

(
d
)

Γ

(

h
(
h
-
1
)

2

,
1

)

,

where $${{\textsf{L}}}^{(i,j)}_N$$

L

N

(
i
,
j
)

denotes the collision local time by time N between copies i, j and $$\Gamma $$
Γ
denotes the Gamma distribution. This generalises a classical result of Erdös and Taylor (Acta Math Acad Sci Hung 11:137–162, 1960).
A novel tablet-based motor coordination test performs on par with the Beery VMI subtest and offers superior temporal metrics: findings from children with pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome
Authors: Thorsson Max , Galazka Martyna A. , Hajjari Parisa , Fernell Elisabeth , Delafield-Butt Jonathan , Gillberg Christopher , Johnson Mats , Åsberg Johnels Jakob , Hadjikhani Nouchine
Published: April 2023

Neuropsychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders are often associated with coordination problems. Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) constitutes a specific example of acute and complex symptomatology that includes difficulties with motor control. The present proof-of-concept study aimed at testing a new, bespoke tablet-based motor coordination test named SpaceSwipe, providing fine-grained measures that could be used to follow-up on symptoms evolution in PANS. This test enables computationally precise and objective metrics of motor coordination, taking into account both directional and spatial features continuously. We used SpaceSwipe to assess motor coordination in a group of children with PANS (n = 12, assessed on in total of 40 occasions) and compared it against the motor coordination subtest from the Beery-Buktenica Developmental Test of Visual-Motor Integration (Beery VMI) 6th edition, traditionally used to follow-up symptomatology. Using a bivariate linear regression, we found that 33 s of the directional offset from tracking a moving target in SpaceSwipe could predict the Beery VMI motor coordination (VMI MC) raw scores (mean absolute error: 1.75 points). Positive correlations between the predicted scores and the VMI MC scores were found for initial testing (radj = 0.87) and for repeated testing (radj = 0.79). With its short administration time and its close prediction to Beery VMI scores, this proof-of-concept study demonstrates the potential for SpaceSwipe as a patient-friendly tool for precise, objective assessment of motor coordination in children with neurodevelopmental or neuropsychiatric disorders.
Role of glia and extracellular matrix in controlling neuroplasticity in the central nervous system
Authors: Dzyubenko Egor , Hermann Dirk M.
Published: April 2023

Neuronal plasticity is critical for the maintenance and modulation of brain activity. Emerging evidence indicates that glial cells actively shape neuroplasticity, allowing for highly flexible regulation of synaptic transmission, neuronal excitability, and network synchronization. Astrocytes regulate synaptogenesis, stabilize synaptic connectivity, and preserve the balance between excitation and inhibition in neuronal networks. Microglia, the brain-resident immune cells, continuously monitor and sculpt synapses, allowing for the remodeling of brain circuits. Glia-mediated neuroplasticity is driven by neuronal activity, controlled by a plethora of feedback signaling mechanisms and crucially involves extracellular matrix remodeling in the central nervous system. This review summarizes the key findings considering neurotransmission regulation and metabolic support by astrocyte-neuronal networks, and synaptic remodeling mediated by microglia. Novel data indicate that astrocytes and microglia are pivotal for controlling brain function, indicating the necessity to rethink neurocentric neuroplasticity views.
Computing Finite Mixture Estimators in the Tails
Authors: Furno Marilena
Published: April 2023

The finite mixtures approach identifies homogeneous groups within the sample. The data are aggregated into classes sharing similar patterns without any prior knowledge or assumption on the clustering. These clusters are characterized by group-specific regression coefficients to account for between groups heterogeneity. Two different approaches have been independently defined in the literature to compute this estimator not only at the conditional mean but also in the tails. One approach allows the grouping to change according to the selected location. The other defines the clusters once and for all at the conditional mean, and then moves the estimation to the tails, focusing on cluster specific estimates and allowing between groups comparison. Here we compare the behavior of both approaches, and in addition we consider a closely related estimator based on expectiles, together with few others more robust, quantile-based estimators. A case study on students’ performance concludes the analysis.
Could atmospheric temperature impact on adequate colon cleansing for colonoscopy? An observational, single-institution study
Authors: Maione Francesco , Manigrasso Michele , Milone Marco , Gennarelli Nicola , Maione Rosa , Cantore Grazia , Chini Alessia , De Palma Giovanni Domenico
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Several risk factors affecting the adequacy of colon cleansing have been proposed during the last decades. However, less is known about the impact that atmospheric aspects could have on adequacy of the bowel cleansing. The study aimed to investigate if the atmospheric temperature could impact on the bowel cleansing during colonoscopy.

Methods

A prospective maintained database of the colonoscopies performed since 1st August 2017 to 31st March 2020 was retrospective reviewed. The primary outcome of the study was to identify if the atmospheric temperature was associated with inadequate colon cleansing during colonoscopy. Secondary outcome was to identify the other factors associated with an inadequate colon cleansing.

Results

One thousand two hundred twenty patients were enrolled. High atmospheric temperature (> 25 °C) significantly influenced the colon cleansing (p < 0.0001). Adequate colon cleansing was negatively influenced by gender (female patients were associated with higher colon cleansing rate, p = 0.013), diabetes (p < 0.0001), previous pelvic surgery (p = 0.001), use of Beta-Blocker (p = 0.001), anti-platelet (p = 0.017), angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (p = 0.001), the adoption of 4 L Poly Ethylene Glycol solution (p = 0.009), single-dose regimen (p < 0.0001) low patients’ compliance (p < 0.0001), higher age and body mass index (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.025), lower education levels (p < 0.0001). On the contrary, admission to the ward to perform bowel preparation positively impacted on colon cleansing (p = 0.002).

Conclusion

Atmospheric temperature could play an important role in the colon cleansing during colonoscopy, being high temperature (> 25 °C) associated with lower rate of adequate bowel cleansing. However, being this relationship never studied before, these results must be confirmed by other studies.
Water-related atmospheric agents and solubility: two parameters of validation in toxicological screening on clothing worn by skeletal remains
Authors: Giordano Gaia , Caccia Giulia , Boracchi Michele , Sardanelli Francesco , Cattaneo Cristina , Di Candia Domenico
Published: April 2023

In forensic toxicology, when conventional matrices are no longer available, alternative matrices can be used to assess toxicological investigations. Clothes worn by skeletal remains may be a good unconventional matrix for toxicological analyses considering that they have absorbed decomposition fluids and blood from a body. We hypothesized a scenario in which a skeleton, wearing clothes, was discovered in an open environment. From this starting point, an experimental study was developed on different textiles (cotton, wool, and polyester) to evaluate whether water-related atmospheric agents and molecule solubility can largely influence the detection of molecules of toxicological interest on this specific matrix, together with the characteristics of different garments chosen. The experimental study was performed on blood spots, previously spiked with 6-monoacetylmorphine and morphine, accurately placed on different textiles and washed with different quantities of deionized water adjusted at pH 5.6 with formic acid to simulate different rainfall conditions. Toxicological analyses were performed via Solid-Phase Extraction and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography—Tandem Mass Spectrometry analyses (Thermo Scientific™ TSQ Fortis™ II Triple-Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer). From the experimental study morphine could not be detected on 100% cotton and 100% wool fabric after the passing of 500 mL of deionized water and in 100% synthetic polyester textile after washing with 250 mL of deionized water. In conclusion, when toxicological analyses are carried out on unconventional matrices as textiles worn by corpses exposed to different environmental conditions, it is of great importance, in using such substrates as evidence for the presence of molecules of toxicological interest, to evaluate chemical-physical characteristics of each analyte under investigation in order to correctly interpret the toxicological data obtained.
Increased muscle force does not induce greater stretch-induced damage to calf muscles during work-matched heel drop exercise
Authors: Pincheira Patricio A. , Mayfield Dean L. , Fox Aaron S. , Brown Nicholas A. T. , Carroll Timothy J. , Cresswell Andrew G. , Lichtwark Glen A.
Published: April 2023

Purpose

To investigate the effect of muscle force during active stretch on quantitative and qualitative indicators of exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) in the medial gastrocnemius (MG) muscle.

Methods

Twelve recreationally active volunteers performed two trials of an eccentric heel drop exercise. Participants performed a single bout of low-load (body weight) and high-load (body weight + 30% body weight) exercises on separate legs. The total mechanical work output for each condition was matched between legs. Before, two hours and 48 h after each bout of eccentric exercise, electrically stimulated triceps surae twitch torque, muscle soreness, MG active fascicle length at maximum twitch torque and muscle passive stiffness were collected. Triceps surae electromyographic (EMG) activity, MG fascicle stretch and MG muscle–tendon unit (MTU) length were measured during the eccentric tasks.

Results

The high-load condition increased triceps surae muscle activity by 6–9%, but reduced MG fascicle stretch (p < 0.001). MTU stretch was similar between conditions. The greater muscle force during stretch did not give rise to additional torque loss (5 vs 6%) or intensify muscle soreness.

Conclusions

Adding 30% body weight during eccentric contractions has a modest impact on exercise-induced muscle damage in the medial gastrocnemius muscle. These results suggest that muscle load may not be an important determinant of stretch-induced muscle damage in the human MG muscle. The muscle investigated does exhibit large pennation angles and high series elastic compliance; architectural features that likely buffer muscle fibres against stretch and damage.