bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Paradox of Archiving: Personality Protection and a Threat in One—Archives and Child Sexual Abuse
Authors: Čtvrtník Mikuláš
Published: January 2023

Perspectives on the protection of the individual are usually based primarily on the question of how a person and their personality rights may be harmed by the retention and disclosure of data concerning this particular individual. Hence the intentions of the European GDPR to allow for “minimisation” and “storage limitation” when it comes to personal data and the correlating “right to be forgotten” (“right to erasure”). Although these intentions apply primarily to data controllers other than archives, most often of private law provenance, they also apply to archives. Along with this trend, however, the opposite perspective proportionally fades, which is the starting point of this chapter: Apart from the risks associated with the preservation and disclosure of personal data, archiving in the public interest is also one of the tools by which the protection of personality rights can be implemented, even enhanced. Permanent preservation of certain categories of personal data is not only necessary for various future research purposes and official interests, but in some cases such preservation becomes the key guarantee of the protection of personality as well as other human and civil rights. The author will demonstrate this thesis on some specific cases including a specific category of records testifying about sexual abuse inside and outside the Church and the protection of victim rights. An analysis of the opposite situation, in which personal data, especially in archival records, have been misused, will be discussed in more detail in the following chapters.
Confinement in de Sitter space and the swampland
Authors: Mishra Rashmish K.
Published: January 2023

Abstract

The relation between confinement scale Λc of a gauge theory and the Hubble scale H of the background quasi de Sitter space, required to satisfy the Festina Lente criteria (Λc ≳ H) from swampland principles, are investigated for a holographic theory using the Karch-Randall setup. A purely gravitational description admits an unstable de Sitter extremum, and the requirement of Festina Lente translates into requirements of a perturbative gravitational dual, but prohibits an arbitrarily small hierarchy for other parameters fixed. With an additional scalar sector, the theory admits metastable de Sitter minima, and the requirement of Festina Lente imposes constraints on the parameters. For some range of parameters where Festina Lente could be constraining, the de Sitter minimum is very close to decay, thus invalidating the applicability. Further consequences of the finite lifetime of the dS extrema and the relation with related swampland conjectures are investigated, and no contradictions are found. These results make case for the consistency and utility of the Karch-Randall setup, clarify the implications of Festina Lente for holographic theories, and connect Festina Lente to other swampland conjectures.
Giant Vortices and the Regge Limit
Authors: Cuomo Gabriel , Komargodski Zohar
Published: January 2023

Abstract

In recent years it has been shown that strongly coupled systems become analytically tractable in the regime of large quantum numbers, such as large spin or large charge. The effective theories that emerge in these two limits are Regge theory and superfluid theory, respectively. Here we make a proposal for a new phase, the “giant vortex,” describing an intermediate regime with large spin and charge. The new phase connects superfluid theory with the large-spin expansion. The giant vortex admits a semi-classical effective theory description with peculiar chiral excitations (moving at the speed of light) and a Fock space of states that is reminiscent of the multi-twist operators in Regge theory, including the leading and daughter Regge trajectories. A similar giant vortex phase appears for Bose-Einstein condensates in a rotating trap, and our results should be applicable in that context as well. We show that the transition from the giant vortex to the Regge regime is accompanied by the scaling dimension turning from being larger than to being smaller than the mean field theory value, i.e. gravity switches from being the weakest force at small AdS distance to being the strongest force at large AdS distance.
Asymptotic symmetries and memories of gauge theories in FLRW spacetimes
Authors: Rojo Martín Enríquez , Schröder Tobias
Published: January 2023

Abstract

In this paper, we investigate the asymptotic structure of gauge theories in decelerating and spatially flat Friedmann-Lemaître-Robertson-Walker universes. Firstly, we thoroughly explore the asymptotic symmetries of electrodynamics in this background, which reveals a major inconsistency already present in the flat case. Taking advantage of this treatment, we derive the associated memory effects, discussing their regime of validity and differences with respect to their flat counterparts. Next, we extend our analysis to non-Abelian Yang-Mills, coupling it dynamically and simultaneously to a Dirac spinor and a complex scalar field. Within this novel setting, we examine the possibility of constructing Poisson superbrackets based on the covariant phase space formalism.
Relic challenges for vector-like fermions as connectors to a dark sector
Authors: Carvunis Alexandre , McGinnis Navin , Morrissey David E.
Published: January 2023

Abstract

New dark sectors consisting of exotic fields that couple only very feebly to the Standard Model (SM) have strong theoretical motivation and may be relevant to explaining the abundance of dark matter (DM). An important question for such sectors is how they connect to the SM. For a dark sector with a new gauge interaction, a natural connection arises from heavy vector-like fermions charged under both the visible and dark gauge groups. The gauge charges of such fermions imply that one or more of them is stable in the absence of additional sources of dark symmetry breaking. A generic challenge for such connectors is that they can produce too much dark matter or interact too strongly with nuclei if they were ever thermalized in the early universe. In this paper we study this challenge in a simple connector theory consisting of new vector-like electroweak doublet and singlet fermions that also transform under the fundamental representation of a new Abelian gauge force, and we show that these connectors in their minimal form are almost always ruled out by existing direct DM searches. To address this challenge, we investigate two solutions. First, we study mitigating scattering on nuclei by introducing a Majorana mass term for the singlet. And second, we investigate a mixing with SM leptons that allows the connectors to decay while remaining consistent with cosmological tests and searches for charged lepton flavour violation. Both solutions rely on the presence of a dark Higgs field with a specific charge.
Cytoskeletal anchorage of different Dsg3 pools revealed by combination of hybrid STED/SMFS-AFM
Authors: Fuchs Michael , Radeva Mariya Y. , Spindler Volker , Vielmuth Franziska , Kugelmann Daniela , Waschke Jens
Published: January 2023

Desmoglein 3 (Dsg3) is a desmosomal cadherin mediating cell adhesion within desmosomes and is the antigen of the autoimmune blistering skin disease pemphigus vulgaris. Therefore, understanding of the complex desmosome turnover process is of high biomedical relevance. Recently, super resolution microscopy was used to characterize desmosome composition and turnover. However, studies were limited because adhesion measurements on living cells were not possible in parallel. Before desmosomal cadherins are incorporated into nascent desmosomes, they are not bound to intermediate filaments but were suggested to be associated with the actin cytoskeleton. However, direct proof that adhesion of a pool of desmosomal cadherins is dependent on actin is missing. Here, we applied single-molecule force spectroscopy measurements with the novel single molecule hybrid-technique STED/SMFS-AFM to investigate the cytoskeletal anchorage of Dsg3 on living keratinocytes for the first time. By application of pharmacological agents we discriminated two different Dsg3 pools, only one of which is anchored to actin filaments. We applied the actin polymerization inhibitor Latrunculin B to modify the actin cytoskeleton and the PKCα activator PMA to modulate intermediate filament anchorage. On the cellular surface Dsg3 adhesion was actin-dependent. In contrast, at cell–cell contacts, Dsg3 adhesion was independent from actin but rather is regulated by PKC which is well established to control desmosome turn-over via intermediate filament anchorage. Taken together, using the novel STED/SMFS-AFM technique, we demonstrated the existence of two Dsg3 pools with different cytoskeletal anchorage mechanisms.
Low-dose radiotherapy of osteoarthritis: from biological findings to clinical effects—challenges for future studies
Authors: Weissmann Thomas , Rückert Michael , Putz Florian , Donaubauer Anna-Jasmina , Hecht Markus , Schnellhardt Sören , Schubert Philipp , Roesch Johannes , Höfler Daniel , Ott Oliver J. , Haderlein Marlen , Lettmaier Sebastian , Fietkau Rainer , Frey Benjamin , Gaipl Udo S. , Deloch Lisa
Published: January 2023

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common and socioeconomically relevant diseases, with rising incidence and prevalence especially with regard to an ageing population in the Western world. Over the decades, the scientific perception of OA has shifted from a simple degeneration of cartilage and bone to a multifactorial disease involving various cell types and immunomodulatory factors. Despite a wide range of conventional treatment modalities available, a significant proportion of patients remain treatment refractory. Low-dose radiotherapy (LDRT) has been used for decades in the treatment of patients with inflammatory and/or degenerative diseases and has proven a viable option even in cohorts of patients with a rather poor prognosis. While its justification mainly derives from a vast body of empirical evidence, prospective randomized trials have until now failed to prove the effectiveness of LDRT. Nevertheless, over the decades, adaptions of LDRT treatment modalities have evolved using lower dosages with establishment of different treatment schedules for which definitive clinical proof is still pending. Preclinical research has revealed that the immune system is modulated by LDRT and very recently osteoimmunological mechanisms have been described. Future studies and investigations further elucidating the underlying mechanisms are an essential key to clarify the optimal patient stratification and treatment procedure, considering the patients’ inflammatory status, age, and sex. The present review aims not only to present clinical and preclinical knowledge about the mechanistic and beneficial effects of LDRT, but also to emphasize topics that will need to be addressed in future studies. Further, a concise overview of the current status of the underlying radiobiological knowledge of LDRT for clinicians is given, while seeking to stimulate further translational research.
Nachhaltigkeit in der chirurgischen Niederlassung – ein narratives Review
Authors: Mezger Nikolaus Christian Simon , Eickel Florian , Lorenz Ralph , Griesel Mirko
Published: January 2023

Hintergrund

Auch die ambulante Chirurgie trägt zur Klimakrise bei. Die Publikation soll die Herausforderungen identifizieren und klare, möglichst evidenzbasierte Empfehlungen für Umweltschutz bei gleichzeitiger Kostenreduktion geben.

Methode

Narratives Review mit nichtsystematischer umfangreicher Recherche in PubMed/MEDLINE und grauer Literatur sowie Befragung von Expert:innen.

Ergebnisse

Eine Vielzahl an Primärarbeiten, Evidenzsynthesen, praktischen Handlungsempfehlungen und Checklisten konnte identifiziert und zwei Expert:innen befragt werden. Umweltprobleme wurden erkannt in Produktion und Beschaffung, Verkehr, beim Verbrauch von Material, Pharmaka und Energie sowie bei Entsorgung, Wiederverwertung und Sterilisation. Hochwertige Publikationen beschreiben nicht einen Mangel an Wissen um Alternativen, sondern an praktischer Umsetzung. Deshalb wurden die Probleme in das 5‑R-Schema („reduce“, „reuse“, „recycle“, „rethink“, „research“) eingeordnet, um Handlungsempfehlungen mit Synergieeffekten bezüglich Kostenreduktion, Patient:innen- und Mitarbeiter:innenzufriedenheit zu präsentieren. Des Weiteren werden Veränderungen der Rahmenbedingungen diskutiert.

Schlussfolgerung

Ambulantes Operieren geht mit relevantem Ressourcenverbrauch einher. Es existieren zahlreiche Möglichkeiten, Umweltschutz mit Kostenreduktion sowie Zufriedenheit von Patient:innen und Mitarbeiter:innen zu verbinden. Für flächendeckenden Klimaschutz in der Niederlassung müssen Anreize und gesetzliche Rahmenbedingungen geschaffen werden.
Sustained clinical success at 7-year follow-up after arthroscopic Lift-Drill-Fill-Fix (LDFF) of primary osteochondral lesions of the talus
Authors: Rikken Quinten G. H. , Altink J. Nienke , Dahmen Jari , Lambers Kaj T. A. , Stufkens Sjoerd A. S. , Kerkhoffs Gino M. M. J.
Published: January 2023

Purpose

To describe the long-term clinical results of arthroscopic fragment fixation for chronic primary osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT), using the Lift-Drill-Fill-Fix (LDFF) technique.

Methods

Eighteen patients (20 ankles) underwent fixation for a primary OLT with an osteochondral fragment using arthroscopic LDFF and were evaluated at a minimum of 5-year follow-up. Pre- and postoperative clinical assessment was prospectively performed by measuring the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) of pain at rest, during walking and when running. Additionally, the change in Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) and the procedure survival (i.e., no reoperation for the OLT) at final follow-up was assessed.

Results

At a mean follow-up of 7 years, the median NRS during walking significantly improved from 7 (IQR 5–8) pre-operatively to 0 (IQR 0–1.5) at final follow-up (p =  < 0.001). This result was sustained from 1-year follow-up to final follow-up. The NRS during running significantly improved from 8 (IQR 6−10) to 2 (IQR 0–4.5) (p < 0.001) and the NRS in rest from 2.5 (IQR 1–3) to 0 (IQR 0–0) (p =  < 0.001). The median FAOS at final follow-up was 94 out of 100 for pain, 71 for other symptoms, 99 for activities of daily living, 80 for sport and 56 for quality of life. The FOAS remained significantly improved post-operatively on all subscales, except for the symptoms subscale. The procedure survival rate is 87% at final follow-up.

Conclusion

Arthroscopic LDFF for fixable chronic primary OLTs results in excellent pain reduction and improved patient-reported outcomes, with sustained results at long-term follow-up. These results indicate that surgeons may consider arthroscopic LDFF as treatment of choice for fragmentous OLT.

Level of evidence

Level IV, prospective case series.
Bacillus predominates in the Ophiocordyceps pseudolloydii-infected ants, and it potentially improves protection and utilization of the host cadavers
Authors: Kuo Hao-Yu , Chiu Ming-Chung , Chou Jui-Yu
Published: January 2023

The bacterial communities that colonize the cadaver environment of insects infected and killed by parasitic fungi can be selected by the sympatric fungi and provide novel impacts. In this study, we found that Bacillus cereus/thuringiensis predominate the bacterial community in Dolichoderus thoracicus ant cadavers colonized by O. pseudolloydii. The most predominant bacterial strains in these ant cadavers were hemolytic and able to produce hydrolytic enzymes for digesting the ant tissue. A relatively intense lethal effect on the co-cultured nematode was displayed by a hemolytic strain. Moreover, the antagonistic effect against pathogenic fungi detected in the bacteria sympatric with O. pseudolloydii was reported here. Naphthoquinones have been shown to confer antibacterial activities and produced by the ant-pathogenic Ophiocordyceps fungi. However, our results did not show the naphthoquinone tolerance we expected to be detected in the bacteria from the ant infected by O. pseudolloydii. The bacterial diversity in the samples associated with O. pseudolloydii infected ants as revealed in this study will be a step forward to the understanding of the roles playing by the microbial community in the native habitats of O. pseudolloydii.
Fitting ideals and various notions of equivalence for modules
Authors: Greither Cornelius , Kataoka Takenori
Published: January 2023

Recently there has been a lot of work on determining the Fitting ideals of arithmetic modules over groups rings, first and foremost of class groups and their Pontryagin duals. In particular, it has turned out that these Fitting ideals are usually non-principal and may be described, up to principal ideals, in terms of group-theoretical information only. The involved principal ideal factors are essentially given by values of equivariantL-functions. The present paper is not concerned with theseL-functions but rather focuses on a systematic understanding of the Fitting ideals up to principal factors. To this end, we develop a certain notion of “equivalence of modules” over suitable commutative ringsR. We establish that understanding the equivalence ofR-modules is closely related to the classification ofR-lattices. We also offer a construction of a category, inspired by derived categories, which embodies our new notion of “equivalence”.
Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging of congenital thoracic systemic venous anomalies
Authors: Batouty Nihal M. , Tawfik Ahmed M. , Sobh Donia M. , Razek Ahmed A. K. A.
Published: January 2023

We present the imaging findings of thoracic systemic venous anomalies diagnosed by computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Persistent left superior vena cava is the commonest anomaly of the thoracic systemic veins encountered either incidentally as an isolated finding or associated with congenital heart disease. Inferior vena cava (IVC) interruption with azygos continuation is the second most common anomaly, which may also be isolated or be associated with left isomerism syndrome. The article will also discuss other rarer systemic venous anomalies including retroaortic brachiocephalic vein and IVC drainage into the left atrium. Finally, the impact of pre-procedure reporting of thoracic systemic venous anomalies on the choice of intervention and patient outcome will be addressed.
PSMA PET/CT: joint EANM procedure guideline/SNMMI procedure standard for prostate cancer imaging 2.0
Authors: Fendler Wolfgang P. , Eiber Matthias , Beheshti Mohsen , Bomanji Jamshed , Calais Jeremie , Ceci Francesco , Cho Steve Y. , Fanti Stefano , Giesel Frederik L. , Goffin Karolien , Haberkorn Uwe , Jacene Heather , Koo Phillip J. , Kopka Klaus , Krause Bernd J. , Lindenberg Liza , Marcus Charles , Mottaghy Felix M. , Oprea-Lager Daniela E. , Osborne Joseph R. , Piert Morand , Rowe Steven P. , Schöder Heiko , Wan Simon , Wester Hans-Jürgen , Hope Thomas A. , Herrmann Ken
Published: January 2023

Here we aim to provide updated guidance and standards for the indication, acquisition, and interpretation of PSMA PET/CT for prostate cancer imaging. Procedures and characteristics are reported for a variety of available PSMA small radioligands. Different scenarios for the clinical use of PSMA-ligand PET/CT are discussed. This document provides clinicians and technicians with the best available evidence, to support the implementation of PSMA PET/CT imaging in research and routine practice.
Effects of the STAMP-inhibitor asciminib on T cell activation and metabolic fitness compared to tyrosine kinase inhibition by imatinib, dasatinib, and nilotinib
Authors: Häselbarth Lukas , Karow Axel , Mentz Kristin , Böttcher Martin , Roche-Lancaster Oisin , Krumbholz Manuela , Jitschin Regina , Mougiakakos Dimitrios , Metzler Markus
Published: January 2023

T cell function is central to immune reconstitution and control of residual chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) cells after treatment initiation and is associated with achieving deep molecular response as a prerequisite for treatment-free remission, the ultimate therapeutic goal in CML. ATP-pocket-binding tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) like imatinib, dasatinib, and nilotinib are widely used for treating CML, but they have shown to inhibit T cell function as an “off-target” effect. Therefore, we tested asciminib, the first-in-class BCR::ABL1 fusion protein inhibitor specifically targeting the ABL myristoyl pocket (STAMP) and compared its effects on T cell function with imatinib, dasatinib, and nilotinib. Whereas all four TKIs inhibited the expression of the co-stimulatory protein CD28, the amino acid transporter CD98, proliferation, and secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines IFNγ, IL-6, and IL-17A upon T cell stimulation, asciminib had less impact on PD-1, activation markers, and IL-2 secretion. T cells treated with asciminib and the other TKIs maintained their ability to mobilize their respiratory capacity and glycolytic reserve, which is an important surrogate for metabolic fitness and flexibility. Overall, we found milder inhibitory effects of asciminib on T cell activation, which might be beneficial for the immunological control of residual CML cells.
Experimental characterization of an unsteady laminar separation bubble on a pitching wing
Authors: Grille Guerra Adrian , Mertens Christoph , Little Jesse , van Oudheusden Bas
Published: January 2023

The laminar separation bubble (LSB) that forms on the suction side of a modified NACA$$64_3$$643-618 airfoil at a chord-based Reynolds number of$$\textrm{Re} = 200,000$$Re=200,000is studied using wind tunnel experiments. First, the LSB is characterized over a range of static angles of attack, in terms of the locations of separation, transition and reattachment—using surface pressure measurements, particle image velocimetry (PIV) and infrared thermography (IT). For the conditions tested, excellent agreement between the techniques is obtained. Subsequently, a pitching motion is imposed on the wind tunnel model, with reduced frequencies up to$$\text {\textit{k} = 0.25}$$k = 0.25. While surface pressure measurements and PIV are not affected by the change in experimental conditions, the infrared approach is impaired by the thermal response of the surface. To overcome this, an extension of the differential infrared thermography (DIT) method for detecting the three characteristics of an unsteady LSB is considered. All three experimental techniques indicate a hysteresis in bubble location between the pitch up and pitch down phases of the motion, caused by the effect of the aerodynamic unsteadiness on the adverse pressure gradient. However, the DIT measurements suggest a larger hysteresis, which is attributed to the thermal response time of the model surface. The experimental results measured with the pressure sensors reveal that the hysteresis in bubble location is larger than the hysteresis in lift, indicating that the observed bubble hysteresis is not purely due to instantaneous flow conditions, but has an inherent component as well.
Impact of age on indication for chemotherapy in early breast cancer patients: results from 104 German institutions from 2008 to 2017
Authors: Hoffmann Ann Sophie , Hennigs André , Feisst Manuel , Moderow Mareike , Heublein Sabine , Deutsch Thomas Maximilian , Togawa Riku , Schäfgen Benedikt , Wallwiener Markus , Golatta Michael , Heil Jörg , Riedel Fabian
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Today, the decision to treat patients with chemotherapy for early breast cancer (EBC) is made based on the patient’s individual risk stratification and tumor biology. In cases with chemotherapy indication, the neoadjuvant application (NACT) is the preferred option in comparison with primary surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy (ACT). Age remains a relevant factor in the decision-making process. The aim of the present study was to illustrate the impact of age on the use of systemic therapy in clinical routine.

Methods

The study separately analyzed chemotherapy use among six age cohorts of EBC patients who had been treated at 104 German breast units between January 2008 and December 2017.

Results

In total, 124,084 patients were included, 46,279 (37.3%) of whom had received chemotherapy. For 44,765 of these cases, detailed information on treatment was available. Within this cohort, chemotherapy was administered as NACT to 14,783 patients (33.0%) and as ACT to 29,982 (67.0%) patients. Due to the higher prevalence of unfavorable tumor subtypes, younger patients had a higher rate of chemotherapy (≤ 29y: 74.2%; 30–39y: 71.3%) and a higher proportion of NACT administration ( ≤ 29y: 66.9%; 30–39y: 56.0%) in comparison with elderly patients, who had lower rates for overall chemotherapy (60–69y: 37.5%; ≥ 70y: 17.6%) and NACT (60–69y: 25.5%; ≥ 70y: 22.8%). Pathologic complete response was higher in younger than in older patients (≤ 29y: 30.4% vs. ≥ 70y: 16.7%), especially for HER2− subtypes.

Conclusion

The data from the nationwide German cohort reveal relevant age-dependent discrepancies concerning the use of chemotherapy for EBC.
Effect of veneering material type and thickness ratio on flexural strength of bi-layered PEEK restorations before and after thermal cycling
Authors: Gouda Ahmed , Sherif Ashraf , Wahba Mennatallah , Morsi Tarek
Published: January 2023

Objective

The purpose of this study was evaluating the biaxial strength of bi-layered PEEK restorations before and after aging using different veneering materials in different thickness ratios.

Material and Methods

Ninety specimens of thickness 1.5 mm were divided into three groups according to their veneering material. Group (CAD LD): BioHPP discs veneered with CAD milled lithium disilicate (n=30), group (CAD C): BioHPP discs veneered with CAD milled composite (n=30), and group (LC): BioHPP discs veneered with conventionally layered composite (n=30). Each group was subdivided into 3 subgroups (n=10) according to the different thickness ratios between the core and the veneering material (TC:TV). Subgroup 1: TC:TV=1:0.5, subgroup 2: TC:TV=0.7:0.8, and subgroup 3: TC:TV=0.5:1. Half of the specimens of each subgroup were subjected to thermocycling, and the bi-axial flexural strength of all specimens was tested before and after aging. Three-way ANOVA followed by Bonferroni’s post hoc test were used for data analysis. The significance level was set at P ≤ 0.05.

Results

Material, thickness ratio, and aging all had a significant effect on biaxial flexural strength. (LC) group had the highest biaxial flexural strength. TC:TV=0.5:1 showed the lowest biaxial flexural strength. All groups showed significant decrease in biaxial flexural strength after aging.

Conclusions

Veneering material for PEEK together with the thickness ratio between the core and veneering material greatly affect the flexural strength of bi-layered restorations. Thermocycling negatively impacts the flexural strength of PEEK bi-layered restorations.

Clinical significance

According to the results of that study, PEEK cores are best veneered with conventionally layered composite with core to veneering thickness ratio being 1:0.5.
The relevance of basic psychological needs and subject interest as explanatory variables for student dropout in higher education — a German case study using the example of a cooperative education program
Authors: Wild Steffen , Rahn Sebastian , Meyer Thomas
Published: January 2023

Student dropout in higher education is a challenge for higher education systems. In recent years, there has been an increasing focus on analyzing motivational aspects in order to counteract dropout. However, the detailed impact mechanisms and processes of motivation on dropout have not been sufficiently researched. For example, there is very little research analyzing the preconditions of motivation and their influence on motivation as well as their eventual influence on dropout. From the background of self-determination theory and the person-object theory of interest, this study analyzes the effects of satisfying the three basic psychological needs on dropout via subject interest. We use data from a cross-sectional design with N = 2662 cooperative students in their first academic year. Our analysis identifies a direct effect of relatedness and subject interest on dropout. Furthermore, indirect effects of satisfying basic psychological needs, specifically, autonomy and relatedness, on dropout via subject interest are noted. We evaluate our results in the context of the current state of research and discuss implications.
Does SARS-CoV-2 Affect Human Semen? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Klepinowski Tomasz , Klepinowska Marta , Sagan Leszek , Syrenicz Anhelli
Published: January 2023

Contradictory results have been reported regarding effects of the SARS-CoV-2 upon human semen. A timely and up-to-date systematic review with meta-analysis appears necessary. This study aimed to deliver pooled prevalence (PP) of SARS-CoV-2 in semen and pooled semen parameters as compared with the uninfected. The relevant databases were scanned by two authors for observational studies reporting analysis of semen in COVID-19 patients. The SARS-CoV-2-infected were assigned to group A (exposed arm), whereas the uninfected to group B (unexposed arm). Newcastle–Ottawa Scale was used to address the risk of bias. PRISMA guidelines were adopted. In case of homogenous studies, fixed-effects model was followed, whereas for heterogenous studies random-effects model was used. Of 990 studies, 24 were eligible involving 1589 subjects (947 in group A and 642 in group B). The “comparability” domain was biased the most. SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected in three studies among 8 individuals producing the PP of 1.76% (95% CI 0.72–3.21). Sperm concentration was reduced significantly (WMD = –16.23 [95% CI –25.56 to –6.89], as well as total sperm in ejaculate (WMD = –34.84 [95% CI − 43.51 to –26.17]) and sperm volume (WMD =  − 0.48 [95% CI − 0.59 to − 0.36] in group A as compared with controls. There was a non-significant effect upon progressive motility and leukocyte presence in semen. SARS-CoV-2 RNA in semen among the infected individuals is detected infrequently. By this token, sexual transmission through semen is of low probability and little concern for public health. However, significant decrease in sperm volume, sperm concentration, and total sperm in ejaculate has been noted. The current data, though, are limited, and more studies with longer follow-up are needed to evaluate the further impact.
Male sex hormones, aging, and inflammation
Authors: Ketchem Justin M. , Bowman Elizabeth J. , Isales Carlos M.
Published: January 2023

Adequate levels of androgens (eugonadism), and specifically testosterone, are vital compounds for male quality of life, longevity, and positive health outcomes. Testosterone exerts its effects by binding to the androgen receptor, which is expressed in numerous tissues throughout the body. Significant research has been conducted on the impact of this steroid hormone on skeletal, muscle and adipose tissues and on the cardiovascular, immune, and nervous systems. Testosterone levels have also been studied in relation to the impact of diseases, aging, nutrition and the environment on its circulating levels. Conversely, the impact of testosterone on health has also been evaluated with respect to its cardiac and vascular protective effects, body composition, autoimmunity and all-cause mortality. The male aging process results in decreasing testosterone levels over time. The exact mechanisms and impact of these changes in testosterone levels with age on health- and life-span are still not completely clear. Further research is needed to determine the optimal testosterone and androgen levels to protect from chronic age-related conditions such as frailty and osteoporosis.
Immobilized cellulose nanospheres enable rapid antigen detection in lateral flow immunoassays
Authors: Solin Katariina , Beaumont Marco , Borghei Maryam , Orelma Hannes , Mertens Pascal , Rojas Orlando J.
Published: January 2023

Rapid diagnostic systems are essential in controlling the spread of viral pathogens and efficient patient management. The available technologies for low-cost viral antigen testing have several limitations, including a lack of accuracy and sensitivity. Here, we introduce a platform based on cellulose II nanoparticles (oppositely charged NPan and NPcat) for effective control of surface protein interactions, leading to rapid and sensitive antigen tests. Passivation against non-specific adsorption and augmented immobilization of sensing antibodies is achieved by adjusting the electrostatic charge of the nanoparticles. The interactions affecting the performance of the system are investigated by microgravimetry and confocal imaging. As a proof-of-concept test, SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid sensing was carried out by using saliva-wicking by channels that were stencil-printed on paper. We conclude that inkjet-printed NPcat elicits strong optical signals, visible after a few minutes, opening the opportunity for cost-effective and rapid diagnostic.

Graphical abstract
The bioeconomy in Spain as a new economic paradigm: the role of key sectors with different approaches
Authors: Ferreira Valeria , Pié Laia , Mainar-Causapé Alfredo , Terceño Antonio
Published: January 2023

The bioeconomy includes the sectors that use renewable biological resources to produce value added products, such as food, feed, energy, and bio-based products. Its importance has been demonstrated by its inclusion as a priority in specific and related policies such as the bioeconomy strategy, the Sustainable Development Goals, the European Green Deal, and the Next Generation recovery plan. Spain has not lagged behind and considers the bioeconomy as a priority in its policy strategies to achieve a more sustainable economy. Despite its importance, the analysis of the potential of the bioeconomy sectors in Spain is limited. To carry out policy-relevant impact assessment in support of bioeconomy development, specific databases describing bio-based products are required. Hence, this work based on the Bio Social Accounting Matrix (BioSAM) for Spain for the year 2010 with a high disaggregation of bio products to perform a structural analysis based on two different and complementary methods: the traditional and the Hypothetical Extraction approach. The structural analysis results reveal promising products as key wealth generators and growth promoters and allow to identify the most suitable to be stimulated with policies to promote the development of the Spanish bioeconomy. Therefore, this paper provides some proposed avenues that should be considered by policymakers.
Perceived feasibility of sward management options in permanent grassland of Alpine regions and expected effects on delivery of ecosystem services
Authors: Mack Gabriele , El Benni Nadja , Spörri Martina , Huguenin-Elie Olivier , Tindale Sophie , Hunter Erik , Newell Price Paul , Frewer Lynn J.
Published: January 2023

Agriculture in Alpine regions plays an important role for multiple ecosystem services (ES) supplied from permanent grassland (PG). This paper investigates the feasibility of sward renewal, overseeding, and rising plate meters on PG for the Swiss Alpine region and analyses their expected effects on ES supply. Sward renewal and overseeding are management options implemented in response to a decline of grassland yields and nutritive value or sward damage. Rising plate meters focus on increased grass utilisation for improving profitability of grassland farms in a sustainable manner. The aim was to improve the understanding which of these three PG management practices could be promoted to deliver a wide range of agricultural and non-agricultural ESs in the Swiss Alpine region. Through interviews with 75 farmers (including organic and intensive/extensive non-organic farmers) and a Delphi-methodology on a panel of experts (N = 10 experts with different expertise), we found that sward renewal is perceived to have negative effects on biodiversity, carbon storage, flood control, prevention of soil erosion, and prevention of loss of organic matter in Alpine regions. Therefore, sward renewal should not be promoted, although about half of the farmers interviewed had already carried out the practice on plots following severe sward damage in Alpine regions. Overseeding is perceived to have positive effects on biodiversity, prevention of soil erosion, and grass production. Thus, the high level of overseeding that is currently practiced in the Swiss Alpine region is probably sustainable. Rising plate meters do not play a significant role in PG management in the Alpine region because calibration in PG with diverse grassland botanical composition in the Alpine region is too difficult.
Functional interactions of non-native aquatic fauna with European freshwater bivalves: implications for management
Authors: Geist Juergen , Benedict Alia , Dobler Andreas H. , Hoess Rebecca , Hoos Philipp
Published: January 2023

Freshwater bivalves are key faunal elements of aquatic ecosystems. Native species declines are paralleled by increasing distribution and abundances of non-native species. Appropriate management of both groups depends on knowledge of their interactions, which remains limited. Herein, we systematically review the current knowledge status of native and non-native bivalves in Europe, analyzing their functional interactions as well as niche and distribution overlaps between species. We also review existing management tools for non-native species in light of their applicability and sustainability. Strong and multiple interactions as well as niche overlaps between native and non-native bivalves already exist in Central Europe, especially with regard to Dreissena spp., Corbicula spp., and Sinanodonta woodiana. Direct competition is low with native species that have a high degree of specialization such as Margaritifera margaritifera, whereas the greatest niche overlap and competition occurs in generalist species such as Anadonta anatina, Unio pictorum, and S. woodiana. Early detection and preventive measures against undesired species are most successful in limiting their spread. Most methods for managing non-native species are unspecific and thus also include undesired side effects on endangered native species. The conservation and restoration of functionally intact bivalve habitats are the most sustainable and most resilient ways of management.
Freshwater mussel populations in Pacific Coast Watersheds (Oregon, USA): occurrence, condition, habitat, and fish species overlap
Authors: Scully-Engelmeyer Kaegan , Blevins Emilie , Granek Elise F. , Constable Ron
Published: January 2023

In the western US, freshwater mussels (Order Unionida) contribute valuable ecosystem functions to riverine systems, yet have declined across their range following widespread degradation of freshwater habitat and parallel declines in salmonids, host fish for larval western pearlshell mussels (Margaritifera falcata). The status of M. falcata populations is of particular conservation interest in isolated coastal watersheds given unique freshwater mussel-host fish relationships. To understand M. falcata population ecology in Oregon’s coastal watersheds, we analyzed stream survey data on presence/absence of mussels collected over a recent eleven-year period, explored co-varying habitat characteristics, and summarized mussel distribution and host fish co-occurrence. We also collected M. falcata and compared condition indices among eight locations. Naïve occupancy in surveyed areas was 12.3%, about half of predicted occupancy (ψ = 0.24, CI 0.19–0.31) based on modeling repeated visits over a ten year assumed closed period. Mussel occupancy was correlated with reach-scale habitat variables, and the probability of mussel observations was positively correlated with presence of coho (Oncorhynchus kisutch) salmon. Condition varied significantly among locations. Spatial relationships between existing mussel distribution, host species, and habitat variables answer questions about coastal freshwater mussel populations, as well as serve to identify priorities for further research and population assessment.
LDL-Dependent Regulation of TNFα/PGE2 Induced COX-2/mPGES-1 Expression in Human Macrophage Cell Lines
Authors: Neuschäfer-Rube Frank , Schön Theresa , Kahnt Ines , Püschel Gerhard Paul
Published: January 2023

Abstract

Inflammation is a hallmark in severe diseases such as atherosclerosis and non-alcohol-induced steatohepatitis (NASH). In the development of inflammation, prostaglandins, especially prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), are major players alongside with chemo- and cytokines, like tumor-necrosis-factor alpha (TNFα) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β). During inflammation, PGE2 synthesis can be increased by the transcriptional induction of the two key enzymes: cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), which converts arachidonic acid to PGH2, and microsomal prostaglandin E2 synthase 1 (mPGES-1), which synthesizes PGE2 from PGH2. Both COX-2 and mPGES-2 were induced by a dietary intervention where mice were fed a fatty acid-rich and, more importantly, cholesterol-rich diet, leading to the development of NASH. Since macrophages are the main source of PGE2 synthesis and cholesterol is predominantly transported as LDL, the regulation of COX-2 and mPGES-1 expression by native LDL was analyzed in human macrophage cell lines. THP-1 and U937 monocytes were differentiated into macrophages, through which TNFα and PGE-2 induced COX-2 and mPGES-1 expression by LDL could be analyzed on both mRNA and protein levels. In addition, the interaction of LDL- and EP receptor signal chains in COX-2/mPGES-1 expression and PGE2-synthesis were analyzed in more detail using EP receptor specific agonists. Furthermore, the LDL-mediated signal transduction in THP-1 macrophages was analyzed by measuring ERK and Akt phosphorylation as well as transcriptional regulation of transcription factor Egr-1. COX-2 and mPGES-1 were induced in both THP-1 and U937 macrophages by the combination of TNFα and PGE2. Surprisingly, LDL dose-dependently increased the expression of mPGES-1 but repressed the expression of COX-2 on mRNA and protein levels in both cell lines. The interaction of LDL and PGE2 signal chains in mPGES-1 induction as well as PGE2-synthesis could be mimicked by through simultaneous stimulation with EP2 and EP4 agonists. In THP-1 macrophages, LDL induced Akt-phosphorylation, which could be blocked by a PI3 kinase inhibitor. Alongside blocking Akt-phosphorylation, the PI3K inhibitor inhibited LDL-mediated mPGES-1 induction; however, it did not attenuate the repression of COX-2 expression. LDL repressed basal ERK phosphorylation and expression of downstream transcription factor Egr-1, which might lead to inhibition of COX-2 expression. These findings suggest that simultaneous stimulation with a combination of TNFα, PGE2, and native LDL-activated signal chains in macrophage cell lines leads to maximal mPGES-1 activity, as well repression of COX-2 expression, by activating PI3K as well as repression of ERK/Egr-1 signal chains.
Environmentally friendly mesoporous SiO2 with mixed fiber/particle morphology and large surface area for enhanced dye adsorption
Authors: Samy A. , Ismail A. M. , Ali Heba
Published: January 2023

Rice straw is made up of hemicelluloses (19–27%), celluloses (32–47%), lignin (5–24%), and ash (13–20%), which are all agricultural waste. Rice straw ash is considered a green/eco-friendly source of silicon dioxide (SiO2). This study focuses on the synthesis and characterization of different mesoporous SiO2nanostructures derived from rice straw waste material through controlling the pH of the extraction process for the first time. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), high-resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM), zeta potential, and surface area analyzer were used to examine the produced materials. Amorphous silica nanostructures, S3 and S7, were produced at pH values of 3 and 7, respectively, according to XRD measurement, whereas higher pH causes the production of crystalline silica (S9). The pH of the extraction has a major effect on the morphology of the resultant nanosilica, as S3 has an irregular shape, S7 is made of distorted spherical particles, and S9 is composed of mixed fiber and spherical particle structures. For pollutant removal, greenly produced SiO2nanostructures were used. The optimal mesoporous nanosilica (S9) demonstrated the highest surface roughness, the largest surface area (262.1 m2/g), the most negative zeta potential (− 20.2 mV), and the best dye adsorption capacity (71.4 mg/g).
Microstructural and oxidation effects on fatigue crack initiation mechanisms in a turbine disc alloy
Authors: Kim D. , Jiang R. , Reed P. A. S.
Published: January 2023

Effects of microstructure and oxidation on fatigue crack initiation and early propagation processes were investigated in RR1000 turbine disc alloy with different γ′ distributions and carbide distributions on the grain boundary. Fatigue tests were carried out under three-point bending and trapezoidal waveform loading (with a 90 s dwell) at 650 °C in air. The failure mode in both γ′ variants is clearly characterised by intergranular features. A number of fatigue cracks are seen to initiate at grain boundaries with bulged Co-rich oxides at the surface and/or interfaces between carbides and grain boundaries, resulting from oxidation damage assisted by applied loading. Reduced lifetime is closely linked to significant intergranular crack initiation and frequent consequent crack coalescence events, which results in enhanced fatigue crack growth (FCG) rates. The extent of intergranular features and enhanced FCG are more marked where more continuous carbides exist at the grain boundary.
FOXP3 TSDR Measurement Could Assist Variant Classification and Diagnosis of IPEX Syndrome
Authors: Wyatt Rebecca C. , Olek Sven , De Franco Elisa , Samans Bjoern , Patel Kashyap , Houghton Jayne , Walter Steffi , Schulze Janika , Bacchetta Rosa , Hattersley Andrew T. , Flanagan Sarah E. , Johnson Matthew B.
Published: January 2023

Pathogenic FOXP3 variants cause immune dysregulation polyendocrinopathy enteropathy X-linked (IPEX) syndrome, a progressive autoimmune disease resulting from disruption of the regulatory T cell (Treg) compartment. Assigning pathogenicity to novel variants in FOXP3 is challenging due to the heterogeneous phenotype and variable immunological abnormalities. The number of cells with demethylation at the Treg cell-specific demethylated region (TSDR) is an independent biomarker of IPEX. We aimed to investigate if diagnosing IPEX at presentation with isolated diabetes could allow for effective monitoring of disease progression and assess whether TSDR analysis can aid FOXP3 variant classification and predict disease course. We describe a large genetically diagnosed IPEX cohort (n = 65) and 13 individuals with other monogenic autoimmunity subtypes in whom we quantified the proportion of cells with FOXP3 TSDR demethylation, normalized to the number with CD4 demethylation (%TSDR/CD4) and compare them to 29 unaffected controls. IPEX patients presenting with isolated diabetes (50/65, 77%) often later developed enteropathy (20/50, 40%) with a median interval of 23.5 weeks. %TSDR/CD4 was a good discriminator of IPEX vs. unaffected controls (ROC-AUC 0.81, median 13.6% vs. 8.5%, p < 0.0001) with higher levels of demethylation associated with more severe disease. Patients with other monogenic autoimmunity had a similar %TSDR/CD4 to controls (median 8.7%, p = 1.0). Identifying increased %TSDR/CD4 in patients with novel FOXP3 mutations presenting with isolated diabetes facilitates diagnosis and could offer an opportunity to monitor patients and begin immune modulatory treatment before onset of severe enteropathy.