bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A pursuit‐evasion game with hybrid system of dynamics
Authors: Salimi Mehdi
Published: November 2020

Pursuit‐evasion games are the next logical stage in the exploring of powerful, intelligent, adaptive performance. In fact, the optimal strategy is known for games in an infinitely sized playing field. The quality of the machine learning methods can thus be compared to the optimal performance possible. Therefore, we consider in this study a pursuit‐evasion differential game in Hilbert space l2 with a hybrid system of dynamics. The game consists of a noninertial pursuer and an inertial evader where controls of the pursuer and the evader are satisfied to the integral constraints. The duration of the game, φ, is fixed. The position of the evader at time φ satisfies to the phase constraint. We obtain attainability domains of the players, and then, we make a winning strategy for the pursuer which guarantees capturing the evader. We show that our constructed strategy is admissible as well.
Identification of Paracentrone in Fucoxanthin‐Fed Mice and Anti‐Inflammatory Effect against Lipopolysaccharide‐Stimulated Macrophages and Adipocytes
Authors: Takatani Naoki , Taya Daisuke , Katsuki Ami , Beppu Fumiaki , Yamano Yumiko , Wada Akimori , Miyashita Kazuo , Hosokawa Masashi
Published: November 2020

Scope

Fucoxanthin is converted to fucoxanthinol and amarouciaxanthin A in the mouse body. However, further metabolism such as cleavage products (i.e., apocarotenoids) remains unclear. The fucoxanthin‐derived apocarotenoid in vivo is investigated and the anti‐inflammatory effect of apocarotenoids with fucoxanthin partial structure such as allenic bond and epoxide residue against activated macrophages and adipocytes in vitro is evaluated.

Methods and Results

LC‐MS analysis indicates the presence of paracentrone, a C31‐allenic‐apocarotenoid, in white adipose tissue of diabetic/obese KK‐Ay and normal C57BL/6J mice fed 0.2% fucoxanthin diet for 1 week. In lipopolysaccharide‐activated RAW264.7 macrophages, paracentrone as well as C26‐ and C28‐allenic‐apocarotenoids suppresses the overexpression of inflammatory factors. Further, apo‐10′‐fucoxanthinal, a fucoxanthin‐derived apocarotenoid which retained epoxide residue, exhibits a most potent anti‐inflammatory activity through regulating mitogen‐activated protein kinases and nuclear factor‐κB inflammatory signal pathways. In contrast, β‐apo‐8′‐carotenal without allenic bond and epoxide residue lacks suppressed inflammation. In 3T3‐L1 adipocytes, paracentrone, and apo‐10′‐fucoxanthinal downregulate the mRNA expression of proinflammatory mediators and chemokines induced by co‐culture with RAW264.7 cells.

Conclusion

Dietary fucoxanthin accumulates as paracentrone as well as fucoxanthinol and amarouciaxanthin A in the mouse body. Allenic bond and epoxide residue of fucoxanthin‐derived apocarotenoids have pivotal roles for anti‐inflammatory action against activated macrophages and adipocytes.
Phloretin, an Apple Polyphenol, Inhibits Pathogen‐Induced Mucin Overproduction
Authors: Birru Rahel L. , Bein Kiflai , Wells Heather , Bondarchuk Natalya , Barchowsky Aaron , Di Yuanpu Peter , Leikauf George D.
Published: November 2020

Scope

Bacterial infection induces mucus overproduction, contributing to acute exacerbations and lung function decline in chronic respiratory diseases. A diet enriched in apples may provide protection from pulmonary disease development and progression. This study examined whether phloretin, an apple polyphenol, inhibits mucus synthesis and secretion induced by the predominant bacteria associated with chronic respiratory diseases.

Methods and Results

The expression of mucus constituent mucin 5AC (MUC5AC) in FVB/NJ mice and NCI‐H292 epithelial cells is analyzed. Nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi)‐infected mice developed increased MUC5AC mRNA, which a diet containing phloretin inhibited. In NCI‐H292 cells, NTHi, Moraxella catarrhalis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa increased MUC5AC mRNA, which phloretin inhibited. Phloretin also diminished NTHi‐induced MUC5AC protein secretion. NTHi‐induced increased MUC5AC required toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) and NADH oxidase 4 (NOX4) signaling and subsequent activation of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)/mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. Phloretin inhibited NTHi‐induced TLR4/NOX4 and EGFR/MAPK signaling, thereby preventing increased MUC5AC mRNA. EGFR activation can also result from increased EGFR ligand synthesis and subsequent ligand activation by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). In NCI‐H292 cells, NTHi increased EGFR ligand and MMP1 and MMP13 mRNA, which phloretin inhibited.

Conclusions

In summary, phloretin is a promising therapeutic candidate for preventing bacterial‐induced mucus overproduction.
VO2 antennas with metallic inclusions for low‐loss reconfigurable cognitive radios
Authors: Connelly David , Chisum Jonathan
Published: November 2020

In this article, we demonstrate a reconfigurable antenna concept based upon a film of vanadium dioxide (VO2) with embedded metallic surface inclusions to increase radiation efficiency. We fabricate a monopole antenna with the proposed film, demonstrate a good match between measurement and simulation, and propose methods for increasing performance. We show that the addition of metallic inclusions in the VO2 film results in a 37‐fold increase in the radiation efficiency. This concept, if paired with a spatially addressable micro‐heater array, could enable extremely flexible and low‐loss frequency‐agile cognitive radio antennas for dynamic spectrum applications as well as polarization and pattern reconfiguration for operation in 5G and beyond systems where spectrum is congested and coexistence is compulsory.
Type 2 Diabetes and HbA1c Predict All‐Cause Post‐Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Hospital Readmission
Authors: Morales‐Marroquin Elisa , Xie Luyu , Meneghini Luigi , de la Cruz‐Muñoz Nestor , Almandoz Jaime P. , Mathew Sunil M. , Schneider Benjamin E. , Messiah Sarah E.
Published: November 2020

Objective

The main goal of this analysis was to determine whether type 2 diabetes and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) predict all‐cause 30‐day hospital readmission after metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS). It was hypothesized that a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes or high HbA1c values would predict all‐cause hospital readmission rates post MBS.

Methods

A retrospective analysis from the 2015‐2018 Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) cohort was completed (N = 744,776); 30,972 participants were readmitted during the 30 days post MBS.

Results

Mean age of the MBSAQIP sample was 45.1 (11.5) years, and the majority were female (80.7%) and non‐Hispanic White (59.4%). The all‐cause hospital readmission rate was 4.2% and increased by 10% in those with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes (HbA1c > 7.5% [> 58 mmol/mol]); after adjustment, diabetes was not associated with increased readmission. Uncontrolled type 2 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and prediabetes resulted in less weight loss 30 days post MBS.

Conclusions

These results based on a national MBS cohort showed that uncontrolled type 2 diabetes is associated with a greater likelihood of all‐cause hospital readmission and reduced weight loss 30 days post MBS. Both type 2 diabetes and prediabetes were also associated with decreased weight loss 30 days post MBS. These findings highlight the need to classify and optimize glycemic control prior to MBS.
Analyzing coagulation dynamics during treatment of vascular malformations with thromboelastography
Authors: Mack Joana M. , Pierce C. D'ann , Richter Gresham T. , Spray Beverly J. , Nicholas Richard , Lewis P. Spencer , Becton David , Crary Shelley E.
Published: November 2020

Background/Objectives

Slow‐flow vascular malformations are abnormal vessels that can lead to activation and consumption of coagulation factors and thrombosis, known as localized intravascular coagulopathy (LIC). Most clinical and research evidence of vascular malformation hemostasis relies on conventional coagulation studies, which may not provide a complete picture. Thromboelastograpy (TEG) is a tool that can provide real‐time assessment of a patient's coagulation dynamics, and may allow for a more individualized treatment approach. We hypothesized that patients with slow‐flow vascular malformations will have changes in TEG parameters peri‐procedure that will help predict blood product or medication administration.

Design/Methods

Institutional Review Board approved prospective study of patients with slow‐flow vascular malformations undergoing a sedated, minor procedure. TEG and conventional coagulation studies were obtained preprocedure, 15 min, and when possible, at 30 min after the start of the procedure.

Results

Twenty‐five patients were enrolled. Median age was 15 years (range 3‐47 years). Procedures included laser and/or sclerotherapy. There were no changes in TEG parameters from baseline to 15 min or 30 min. The following decreased from baseline to 15 min: fibrinogen 313 to 287 mg/dL (P = .001), D‐dimer 1.3 to 1.1 mg/L (P = .02), hemoglobin 12.8 to 11.8 g/dL (P = .001), and platelet count 272 000 to 256 000 (P = .006). No patient had a bleeding/thrombotic complication during or within 1 week postprocedure.

Conclusion

We saw no change in TEG parameters or bleeding or clotting complications despite significant numerical changes in conventional coagulation profiles, suggesting that conventional studies may not be as useful in determining risks of bleeding or thrombotic complications peri‐procedure for minor procedures.
Effectiveness of risk minimisation measures for valproate: A cross‐sectional survey among physicians in Europe
Authors: Toussi Massoud , Isabelle Bardoulat , Tcherny‐Lessenot Stephanie , de Voogd Hanka , Dimos Vasilis , Kaplan Sigal
Published: November 2020

Purpose

This study evaluated the effectiveness of risk minimisation measures (RMMs) implemented following the 2014 referral for valproate in Europe.

Methods

Cross‐sectional survey was conducted over 2‐month period in 2016 among physicians who prescribed valproate in France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Spain and Sweden. The web‐based questionnaire included five endpoints to evaluate physicians' knowledge on (a) prescribing valproate only for epilepsy and bipolar disorder in women if other treatments were ineffective or not tolerated; (b) ensuring supervision by experienced physicians while treating these conditions; (c) considering alternative treatments for women planning pregnancy, regular review of treatment needs and re‐assessing the benefit–risk balance in women and girls reaching puberty; (d) informing patients about the risks of taking valproate during pregnancy and (e) advising women on effective contraception during their treatment.

Results

Among 1153 physicians, 95.5% responded prescribing valproate for epilepsy and bipolar disorder in women only if other treatments are ineffective/not tolerated; 66.5% supervised while treatment; 76.6% considered alternative treatments for women planning pregnancy; 92.1% informed patients about the risks of taking valproate during pregnancy and 94.4% advised patients on the use of effective contraception during its treatment. Overall, 25.8% physicians recalled receiving both educational material (EM) and Dear Healthcare Professional Communication (DHPC). All endpoint rates were higher for physicians who acknowledged receipt of both DHPC and EM compared to physicians who did not receive them.

Conclusions

Although results varied across geography and physician speciality, majority of physicians had good knowledge about the indication and safety aspects of prescribing and using valproate.
Effects of quercetin supplementation on inflammatory factors and quality of life in post‐myocardial infarction patients: A double blind, placebo‐controlled, randomized clinical trial
Authors: Dehghani Fereshteh , Sezavar Seyedi Jandaghi Seyed Hashem , Janani Leila , Sarebanhassanabadi Mohammadtaghi , Emamat Hadi , Vafa Mohammadreza
Published: November 2020

Myocardial infarction (MI) is one of the leading causes of death in the world. Epidemiological studies have shown that dietary flavonoids are inversely related to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The study aimed to determine whether quercetin supplementation can improve inflammatory factors, total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and quality of life (QOL) in patients following MI. This randomized double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial was conducted on 88 post‐MI patients. Participants were randomly assigned into quercetin (n = 44) and placebo groups (n = 44) receiving 500 mg/day quercetin or placebo tablets for 8 weeks. Quercetin supplementation significantly increased serum TAC compared to placebo (Difference: 0.24 (0.01) mmol/L and 0.00 (0.00) mmol/L respectively; p < .001). TNF‐α levels significantly decreased in the quercetin group (p = .009); this was not, however, significant compared to the placebo group. As for QOL dimensions, quercetin significantly lowered the scores of insecurity (Difference: −0.66 (12.5) and 0.00 (5.55) respectively; p < .001). No significant changes in IL‐6, hs‐CRP, blood pressure and other QOL dimensions were observed between the two groups. Quercetin supplementation (500 mg/day) in post‐MI patients for 8 weeks significantly elevated TAC and improved the insecurity dimension of QOL, but failed to show any significant effect on inflammatory factors, blood pressure and other QOL dimensions.
Acute exacerbation in chronic bird fancier's lung with pleuroparenchymal fibroelastosis
Authors: Sugino Keishi , Ono Hirotaka , Watanabe Natsumi , Igarashi Seiji , Hebisawa Akira , Tsuboi Eiyasu
Published: November 2020

A 71‐year‐old non‐smoker woman was admitted to our hospital complaining of a six‐month history of dry cough. She had kept java sparrow for nine years and has been raising budgerigars for the previous eight months. High‐resolution computed tomography (HRCT) images of the chest revealed reticulonodular lesions predominantly in the bilateral upper lobes. Surgical lung biopsy specimens showed non‐caseous epithelioid cell granulomas in the alveolar spaces, including irregular and centrilobular fibrosis with pleuroparenchymal fibroelastosis. When she started using a duck feather duvet at home, she developed dyspnoea and chest HRCT abnormalities progressively deteriorated. The results of precipitation of antibodies against duck feather, java sparrow, and budgerigars dropping extracts were positive in sera. Consequently, the patient was diagnosed as having chronic bird fancier's lung with acute exacerbation caused by the use of a feather duvet. After combination treatments with corticosteroid and cyclosporine, her respiratory symptoms and reticulonodular shadow immediately improved.
Multi‐Component Mesocrystalline Nanoparticles with Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Ko Min Jun , Park Bum Chul , Koo Thomas Myeongseok , Jeon Yoo Sang , Kim Myeong Soo , Kim Young Keun
Published: November 2020

Mesocrystals, consisting of small subunits, have gained research interests owing to their ability to simultaneously modify material‐specific properties and interactions among subunits. However, despite these unique characteristics, most mesocrystals are composed of a single material, and there is a disjunction between academic discovery and practical application. In this study, the synthesis of multi‐component mesocrystalline nanoparticles composed of Fe3O4, ZnFe2O4, and ZnO subunits using a polymerization induced heterogeneous nucleation method is reported. The structure has small ZnFe2O4 and ZnO nanocrystals covering the Fe3O4 crystallites. It exhibits not only magnetic and catalytic properties determined by the size of each subunit nanocrystal, but also enhances photocatalytic and colloidal properties that originates because of its crowded arrangement. The magnetically recoverable catalysts exhibit remarkable photodegradation of organic molecules under the irradiation of visible light for 1 h; thus, improving its applicability in purifying a large amount of wastewater during the daytime.
Another piece of the puzzle, another brick in the wall: The inevitable fate of Campanula section Quinqueloculares (Campanulaceae: Campanuloideae)
Authors: Liveri Eleni , Crowl Andrew A. , Mavrodiev Evgeny , Yıldırım Hasan , Kamari Georgia , Cellinese Nico
Published: November 2020

Campanula sect. Quinqueloculares (Campanulaceae), consisting of ca. 39 mostly chasmophytic species, is one of the most morphologically variable groups in Campanula and includes numerous endemics occurring mostly in Greece and/or Turkey. In this molecular study, we aim to test the monophyly of C. sect. Quinqueloculares and provide divergence time estimates to generate hypotheses into the historical processes responsible for the diversification and current distribution patterns of this group. Individual and combined data matrices consisting of plastid (NADHS‐2, rpoC1‐1, rpoC2‐1, rpoC2‐2, rpoC2‐3, trnT‐trnL) and nuclear (2017561, ITS, PPR11, PPR70) markers were constructed for 121 taxa. Results indicate that C. sect. Quinqueloculares, as traditionally circumscribed, is polyphyletic. Species are largely clustered into two well‐supported clades, except for three taxa excluded from these groups. Additionally, a few taxa belonging to other sections are confidently nested within the two Quinqueloculares clades. The first clade (Greek clade) includes one isophylloid species nested with 25 Greek endemics belonging to C. sect. Quinqueloculares. The second clade (Southeastern Aegean‐Turkish clade) comprises 20 C. sect. Quinqueloculares taxa and 3 species of C. sect. Rupestres, all distributed in the southeastern Aegean and Turkey. Divergence time estimates suggest that these clades originated in the Late Miocene. Temporal and geographic patterns are consistent with a vicariant scenario driven by geological events during the Miocene, such as the formation of the Mid‐Aegean trench and the Messinian salinity crisis.
Synthesis, characterization, and biological applications of semiconducting polythiophene‐based nanoparticles
Authors: Zangoli Mattia , Di Maria Francesca
Published: November 2020

In recent years, polythiophene‐based nanoparticles (PT‐NPs) have attracted increasing attention because of their outstanding characteristics deriving from a wealth of properties such as charge conduction in the oxidized/reduced states, light absorption/emission at an appropriate wavelength, geometrical adaptability, thermal and chemical stability, and solubility in common solvents. Furthermore, the great synthetic flexibility of the thiophene core has allowed the engineering of a multitude of nanomaterials with made‐to‐order properties. This review is focused on the synthesis and characterization of aqueous PT‐NPs and their biological applications. In particular, both in vitro and in vivo bioapplications will be presented, in which thiophene‐based nanomaterials act as photoactuators, that is, as exogenous components capable of transforming a primary stimulus of light into a highly spatiotemporally resolved secondary stimulus able to alter cell's physiological functions. Furthermore, examples of applications of PT‐NPs in biomedicine, such as photodynamic therapy and photothermal therapy, will be discussed.
GLP-1-Analoga in der Therapie des Typ-2-Diabetes bei Jugendlichen
Authors: Veyder-Malberg Caroline , Furthner Dieter , Dalus Christopher , Maruszczak Katharina , Schneider Anna-Maria , Weghuber Daniel
Published: November 2020

Wenngleich die Prävalenz des Typ-2-Diabetes (T2D) bei Kindern und Jugendlichen im deutschsprachigen Raum im internationalen Vergleich niedrig ist, wird auch hierorts jährlich bei bis zu 300 jungen Patienten die Diagnose neu gestellt. Um mögliche Spätfolgen der Erkrankung zu vermeiden, ist eine effiziente Therapie frühzeitig notwendig. Eine Lebensstilmodifikation ist hier stets die Basis. Bis vor Kurzem gab es lediglich 2 zugelassene Medikamente für die Therapie des T2D bei Kindern und Jugendlichen: Metformin und Insulin. Seit 2019 steht auch der „Glucagon-like-Peptide-1“(GLP-1)-Rezeptor-Agonist Liraglutid bei Kindern und Jugendlichen ab 10 Jahren zur Verfügung.

In der Recherche für den vorliegenden Artikel, welcher als narratives Review verfasst wurde, konnten 3 Studien mit Liraglutid bei Jugendlichen mit T2D gefunden werden. Generell zeigten sich eine gute Toleranz und Sicherheit sowie eine Pharmakokinetik ähnlich der von Erwachsenen. Das Nebenwirkungsprofil beinhaltet milde gastrointestinale Nebenwirkungen, jedoch keine schweren Hypoglykämien. Neben einer besseren glykämischen Kontrolle ist ein günstiger Effekt auf das Körpergewicht möglich. Liraglutid kann bei Jugendlichen ab 10 Jahren in Kombination mit Metformin oder bei einer Metforminunverträglichkeit alleine angewandt werden. Weitere Studien zu anderen GLP-1-Analoga werden bereits durchgeführt und eröffnen neue therapeutische Möglichkeiten.
Comparison of extraction methods for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in human serum and placenta samples—insights into extractable organic fluorine (EOF)
Authors: Kaiser Andreas-Marius , Aro Rudolf , Kärrman Anna , Weiss Stefan , Hartmann Christina , Uhl Maria , Forsthuber Martin , Gundacker Claudia , Yeung Leo W. Y.
Published: November 2020

Since the detection of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in humans and different environmental media in the last two decades, this substance group has attracted a lot of attention as well as increasing concerns. The fluorine mass balance approach, by comparing the levels of targeted PFAS after conversion to fluorine equivalents with those of extractable organic fluorine (EOF), showed the presence of unidentified organofluorine in different environmental samples. Out of the thousands of PFAS in existence, only a very small fraction is included in routine analysis. In recent years, liquid chromatography coupled with tandem-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) has demonstrated the ability to analytically cover a wide spectrum of PFAS. In contrast, conventional extraction methods developed 10 to 15 years ago were only evaluated for a limited number of PFAS. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of three different extraction methods, adapted from the literatures without further optimization (ion-pair liquid-liquid extraction, solid-phase extraction (SPE), using hydrophilic-lipophilic (HLB) or weak anion exchange (WAX) sorbents), for human biomonitoring of 61 PFAS in serum and placental tissue samples. In addition, levels of EOF were compared among these extraction methods via spiked samples. Results showed that performance, in terms of recovery, differed between the extraction methods for different PFAS; different extraction methods resulted in different EOF concentrations indicating that the choice of extraction method is important for target PFAS and EOF analysis. Results of maternal serum samples, analyzed in two different laboratories using two different extraction methods, showed an accordance of 107.6% (± 21.3); the detected perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) in maternal and cord serum samples were in the range of 0.076 to 2.9 ng/mL.

Graphical abstract
Endoscopic full thickness resection vs. transanal endoscopic microsurgery for local treatment of rectal neuroendocrine tumors - a retrospective analysis
Authors: Brand Markus , Reimer Stanislaus , Reibetanz Joachim , Flemming Sven , Kornmann Marko , Meining Alexander
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Local treatment of small well-differentiated rectal neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) is recommended by current guidelines. However, although several endoscopic methods have been established, the highest R0 rate is achieved by transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM). Since a recently published study about endoscopic full thickness resection (eFTR) showed a R0 resection rate of 100%, the aim of this study was to evaluate both methods (eFTR vs. TEM).

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed all patients with rectal NET treated either by TEM (1999–2018) or eFTR (2016–2019) in two tertiary centers (University Hospital Wuerzburg and Ulm). We analyzed clinical, procedural, and histopathological outcomes in both groups.

Results

Twenty-eight patients with rectal NET received local treatment (TEM: 13; eFTR: 15). Most tumors were at stage T1a and grade G1 or G2 (in the TEM group two G3 NETs were staged T2 after neoadjuvant chemotherapy). In both groups, similar outcomes for en bloc resection rate, R0 resection rate, tumor size, or specimen size were found. No procedural adverse events were noted. Mean procedure time in the TEM group was 48.9 min and 19.2 min in the eFTR group.

Conclusion

eFTR is a convincing method for local treatment of small rectal NETs combining high safety and efficacy with short interventional time.
Risk for COVID-19 infection in patients with tobacco smoke-associated cancers of the upper and lower airway
Authors: Gallo Oreste
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Cancer patients are regarded as a group at risk for both COVID-19 infection and severe clinical course because of advanced age, comorbidities and iatrogenic immune impairment. Among them, patients with cancer of the upper and lower airways share other risk factors, mostly related to tobacco-smoke exposure, including male gender, airway epithelial damages, chronic obstructive respiratory disease (COPD), cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Clinical and pathophysiological factors shared by these conditions are reviewed.

Methods

Review of the published literature since the beginning of 2020.

Results

COVID-19 is a respiratory infectious disease and SARS-CoV-2 replication and shedding occurs in nasal and bronchial epithelial respiratory cells through the interaction with ACE2 and TMPRSS2 receptors, both overexpressed in smokers and former smokers. Tobacco-smoke airway exposure is also characterized by a chronic inflammation with activation of inflammatory cells and cytokine release including interleukin-6 (IL-6). A high release of cytokine in response to viral infection is documented in COVID-19 patients with adverse clinical outcomes and IL-6 is a key element of the cytokine storm syndrome leading to multi-organ damage.

Conclusions

Patients with cancers of the upper and lower airways might be at increased risk of infection, morbidity and mortality from COVID-19 also because of tobacco exposure, a key factor in triggering inflammation, immunity and cancer.
Rheological change and degassing during a trachytic Vulcanian eruption at Kilian Volcano, Chaîne des Puys, France
Authors: Colombier Mathieu , Shea Thomas , Burgisser Alain , Druitt Timothy H. , Gurioli Lucia , Müller Dirk , Cáceres Francisco , Hess Kai-Uwe , Boivin Pierre , Miallier Didier , Dingwell Donald B.
Published: November 2020

Magma ascent during silicic dome-forming eruptions is characterized by significant changes in magma viscosity, permeability, and gas overpressure in the conduit. These changes depend on a set of parameters such as ascent rate, outgassing and crystallization efficiency, and magma viscosity, which in turn may influence the prevailing conditions for effusive versus explosive activity. Here, we combine chemical and textural analyses of tephra with viscosity models to provide a better understanding of the effusive-explosive transitions during Vulcanian phases of the 9.4 ka eruption of Kilian Volcano, Chaîne des Puys, France. Our results suggest that effusive activity at the onset of Vulcanian episodes at Kilian Volcano was promoted by (i) rapid ascent of initially crystal-poor and volatile-rich trachytic magma, (ii) a substantial bulk and melt viscosity increase driven by extensive volatile loss and crystallization, and (iii) efficient degassing/outgassing in a crystal-rich magma at shallow depths. Trachytic magma repeatedly replenished the upper conduit, and variations in the amount of decompression and cooling caused vertical textural stratification, leading to variable degrees of crystallization and outgassing. Outgassing promoted effusive dome growth and occurred via gas percolation through large interconnected vesicles, fractures, and tuffisite veins, fostering the formation of cristobalite in the carapace and talus regions. Build-up of overpressure was likely caused by closing of pore space (bubbles and fractures) in the dome through a combination of pore collapse, cristobalite formation, sintering in tuffisite veins, and limited pre-fragmentation coalescence in the dome or underlying hot vesicular magma. Sealing of the carapace may have caused a transition from open- to closed- system degassing and to renewed explosive activity. We generalize our findings to propose that the broad spectrum of eruptive styles for trachytic magmas may be inherited from a combination of characteristics of trachytic melts that include high water solubility and diffusivity, rapid microlite growth, and low melt viscosity compared to their more evolved subalkaline dacitic and rhyolitic equivalents. We show that trachytes may erupt with a similar style (e.g., Vulcanian) but at significantly higher ascent rates than their andesitic, dacitic, and rhyolitic counterparts. This suggests that the periodicity of effusive-explosive transitions at trachytic volcanoes may differ from that observed at the well-monitored andesitic, dacitic, and rhyolitic volcanoes, which has implications for hazard assessment associated with trachytic eruptions.
Antiinfektive Therapie
Authors: Hanses Frank
Published: November 2020

Sepsis und septischer Schock sind weiter mit einer hohen Mortalität und Morbidität verbunden. Ein entscheidender Faktor für die Verbesserung des Outcomes ist die schnelle Einleitung einer wirksamen Antibiotikatherapie. Das frühe Erkennen einer Sepsis innerhalb der ersten Stunde stellt dabei eine der größten Herausforderungen dar. Zu einer wirksamen empirischen Therapie gehören gezielt ausgewählte Breitspektrumantibiotika, in speziellen Situationen auch Kombinationstherapien bzw. Antimykotika. Deeskalationsstrategien zur Verschmälerung bzw. Verkürzung der Therapie sind sicher und können Nebenwirkungen begrenzen.
Correction to: A brief history and spectroscopic analysis of soy isoflavones
Authors: Jung Young Sung , Rha Chan-Su , Baik Moo-Yeol , Baek Nam-In , Kim Dae-Ok
Published: November 2020

The article “A brief history and spectroscopic analysis of soy isoflavones”, written by Young Sung Jung, Chan-Su Rha, Moo-Yeol Baik, Nam-In Baek, Dae-Ok Kim, was originally published electronically on the publisher’s internet portal on 15 September 2020 without open access.
Erholung verliert an Fahrt - Wirtschaft und Politik weiter im Zeichen der Pandemie
Authors: Holtemöller Oliver , Kooths Stefan , Michelsen Claus , Schmidt Torsten , Wollmershäuser Timo
Published: November 2020

Infolge der Maßnahmen zur Eindämmung der Corona-Pandemie ist die deutsche Wirtschaftsleistung in der ersten Jahreshälfte drastisch gesunken, vor allem in den Monaten März und April. Schon im Mai setzte eine kräftige Gegenbewegung ein, die sich in nahezu allen Branchen bis zum aktuellen Rand fortsetzte. Dieser Erholungsprozess dürfte an Fahrt verlieren. Die Institute erwarten daher nach einem Rückgang des Bruttoinlandsprodukts um 5,4 % (2020) einen Zuwachs um 4,7 % (2021) und um 2,7 % im Jahr 2022. Sie revidieren damit ihre Prognose aufgrund des nunmehr etwas schwächeren Erholungsprozesses gegenüber dem Frühjahr nach unten. Die Wirtschaftspolitik hat frühzeitig mit massiven finanzpolitischen Maßnahmen auf die Corona-Krise reagiert. Die Konjunkturprogramme haben im Zusammenspiel mit den automatischen Stabilisatoren dazu beigetragen, dass die verfügbaren Einkommen der privaten Haushalte selbst in der akuten Krisenphase insgesamt stabil blieben.
Corona-Pandemie und die Stabilität des Bankensystems
Authors: Demary Markus , Hüther Michael
Published: November 2020

Dass die Corona-Pandemie die Bilanzqualität von Banken und Finanzintermediären verschlechtern könnte, wurde zwar schon befürchtet, jedoch stand die Bankenstabilisierung bisher nicht im Mittelpunkt der wirtschaftspolitischen Maßnahmen, welche die Auswirkungen der Corona-Pandemie überwinden sollen. Vielmehr hatte sich der Lockdown auf mehrere Branchen der Realwirtschaft ausgewirkt. Besonders betroffen waren bisher der stationäre Einzelhandel, die Tourismusbranche, das Gastgewerbe, aber auch die Industrie. Die Automobilbranche hatte sogar vorübergehend die Produktion vollständig stillgelegt. Inwieweit könnte die Corona-Pandemie nun den Bankensektor destabilisieren?
Corona-Finanzhilfen des Bundes zur Entlastung der Kommunen
Authors: Döring Thomas
Published: November 2020

Die Corona-Krise hat bei den Kommunen zu zusätzlichen Ausgaben und hohen Steuerausfällen geführt. Zur Stabilisierung der Kommunalfinanzen hat der Bund zwei Gesetzesinitiativen auf den Weg gebracht. Neben einer dauerhaft stärkeren Beteiligung des Bundes an den Kosten für Unterkunft und Heizung in der Grundsicherung für Arbeitssuchende sollen einmalig und in pauschaler Form die krisenbedingten Gewerbesteuermindereinnahmen der Kommunen kompensiert werden. Beide Maßnahmen führen jedoch zu einer unsachgerechten Vermischung von kurzfristigen Interventionen zur fiskalischen Bewältigung der Corona-Krise mit grundlegenden Reformnotwendigkeiten der Kommunalfinanzen.
Modeling Shear Behavior of Woven Fabric Thermoplastic Composites for Crash Simulations
Authors: Ahmad Bilal , Fang Xiangfan
Published: November 2020

Woven fabric thermoplastic composites possess high specific strength and stiffness along with thermoformability. To utilize the full potential of these materials to achieve better crash-safe designs in automotive structural parts, the measurement of non-linear shear behavior and its material modeling for FEM simulations is required. The standard testing method was used to measure the pure shear behavior of woven fabric composites. These results were compared with the shear behavior of material in the presence of normal stresses along the fiber direction. Tensile and compression cyclic testing of ± 45° laminate were carried out to measure the stiffness degradation and hardening of the material in the presence of tensile normal and compression normal stress. A methodology is proposed for taking into account the differences in shear behavior under different loading directions in an FEM simulation. Based on the experimental evidence, improvements in the mathematical description of plasticity and damage in continuum damage mechanics models are proposed. The model was implemented as a user-defined material subroutine (VUMAT) for Abaqus. The experimental results from coupon tests were used to verify the results of a single element simulation. Finally, a three-point bending test was used to validate the predictions of the user material model.
From needs to actions: prospects for planned adaptations in high mountain communities
Authors: McDowell Graham , Harris Leila , Koppes Michele , Price Martin F. , Chan Kai M.A. , Lama Dhawa G.
Published: November 2020

Adaptation needs in high mountain communities are increasingly well documented, yet most efforts to address these needs continue to befall mountain people who have contributed little to the problem of climate change. This situation represents a contravention of accepted norms of climate justice and calls attention to the need for better understanding of prospects for externally resourced adaptation initiatives in high mountain areas. In response, this paper examines the architecture of formal adaptation support mechanisms organized through the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and how such mechanisms might help to meet adaptation needs in high mountain communities. It outlines key global adaptation initiatives organized through the UNFCCC, clarifies idealized linkages between these global adaptation initiatives and meeting local adaptation needs, and evaluates actual progress in connecting such support with discrete adaptation needs in the upper Manaslu region of Nepal. The paper then critically examines observed shortcomings in matching adaptation support organized through the UNFCCC with local adaptation needs, including complications stemming from the bureaucratic nature of formal adaptation support mechanisms, the intervening role of the state in delivering aid, and the ways in which these complexities intersect with the specific socio-cultural contexts of mountain communities. It concludes by highlighting several prospects for increasing the quantity and quality of adaptation support to mountain communities. These opportunities are considered alongside several salient concerns about formal adaptation support mechanisms in an effort to provide a well-rounded assessment of the prospects for planned adaptations in high mountain communities.
Women’s empowerment and farmland allocations in Bangladesh: evidence of a possible pathway to crop diversification
Authors: De Pinto Alessandro , Seymour Greg , Bryan Elizabeth , Bhandari Prapti
Published: November 2020

Climate change will likely affect several of the dimensions that determine people’s food security status in Bangladesh, from crop production to the availability and accessibility of food products. Crop diversification is a form of adaptation to climate change that reduces exposure to climate-related risks and has also been shown to increase diet diversity, reduce micronutrient deficiencies, and positively affect agro-ecological systems. Despite these benefits, the level of crop diversification in Bangladesh remains extremely low, requiring an examination of the factors that support uptake of this practice. This paper explores whether women’s empowerment, measured using the Women’s Empowerment in Agriculture Index (WEAI), leads to increased diversification in the use of farmland. Our results reveal that some aspects of women’s empowerment in agriculture, but not all, lead to more diversification and to a transition from cereal production to other crops like vegetables and fruits. These findings suggest a possible pathway for gender-sensitive interventions that promote crop diversity as a risk management tool and as a way to improve the availability of nutritious crops.
Toward a low-carbon tourism for sustainable development: a study based on a royal project for highland community development in Chiang Rai, Thailand
Authors: Bhaktikul Kampanad , Aroonsrimorakot Sayam , Laiphrakpam Meena , Paisantanakij Warit
Published: November 2020

Sustainable development of a community needs to be balanced in all dimensions. Global warming and climate change from human emissions can affect the development of communities including highland communities in Chiang Rai, Thailand in terms of human life, growth and yield of plants and animals. This research presents low-carbon tourism for the sustainable development of the rural highland community in Chiang Rai, Thailand by integrating economic, social and environmental objectives in community development for sustainability. This research is carried out through funding of a royal project and is based on mixed research methodology incorporating both qualitative and quantitative data analysis techniques in different stages including, ethnographic delphi future research, in-depth interview and observation. The study evaluates the community development levels standard and indicators for enhancing the community's economic development such as low carbon tourism development through analyzing the available resources and the Royal Project initiatives through education, meeting and discussion. The result shows its impact on four dimensions of development as 1. environmentally friendly agriculture; 2. forest restoration and conservation; 3. community health management; and 4. community strength to support change, to develop into sustainable low carbon highland communities. The results of this research can be used as a guideline for a sustainable low-carbon community development and also to evaluate criteria, indicators, as well as developmental steps for preparing and evaluating community development levels for certification of community development standards into low-carbon sustainable areas.
The Role of NLRP3 Inflammasome Activities in Bone Diseases and Vascular Calcification
Authors: Yu Chenyang , Zhang Caihua , Kuang Zhihui , Zheng Qiang
Published: November 2020

Abstract

Continuous stimulation of inflammation is harmful to tissues of an organism. Inflammatory mediators not only have an effect on metabolic and inflammatory bone diseases but also have an adverse effect on certain genetic and periodontal diseases associated with bone destruction. Inflammatory factors promote vascular calcification in various diseases. Vascular calcification is a pathological process similar to bone development, and vascular diseases play an important role in the loss of bone homeostasis. The NLRP3 inflammasome is an essential component of the natural immune system. It can recognize pathogen-related molecular patterns or host-derived dangerous signaling molecules, recruit, and activate the pro-inflammatory protease caspase-1. Activated caspase-1 cleaves the precursors of IL-1β and IL-18 to produce corresponding mature cytokines or recognizes and cleaves GSDMD to mediate cell pyroptosis. In this review, we discuss the role of NLRP3 inflammasome in bone diseases and vascular calcification caused by sterile or non-sterile inflammation and explore potential treatments to prevent bone loss.
A simple method for determination of fine resolution urban form patterns with distinct thermal properties using class-level landscape metrics
Authors: Zawadzka J. E. , Harris J. A. , Corstanje R.
Published: November 2020

Context

Relationships between land surface temperature (LST) and spatial configuration of urban form described by landscape metrics so far have been investigated with coarse resolution LST imagery within artificially superimposed land divisions. Citywide micro-scale observations are needed to better inform urban design and help mitigate urban heat island effects in warming climates.

Objectives

The primary objective was to sub-divide an existing high-resolution land cover (LC) map into groups of patches with distinct spatial and thermal properties suitable for urban LST studies relevant to micro-scales. The secondary objective was to provide insights into the optimal analytical unit size to calculate class-level landscape metrics strongly correlated with LST at 2 m spatial resolution.

Methods

A two-tiered unsupervised k-means clustering analysis was deployed to derive spatially distinct groups of patches of each major LC class followed by further subdivisions into hottest, coldest and intermediary sub-classes, making use of high resolution class-level landscape metrics strongly correlated with LST.

Results

Aggregation class-level landscape metrics were consistently correlated with LST for green and grey LC classes and the optimal search window size for their calculations was 100 m for LST at 2 m resolution. ANOVA indicated that all Tier 1 and most of Tier 2 subdivisions were thermally and spatially different.

Conclusions

The two-tiered k-means clustering approach was successful at depicting subdivisions of major LC classes with distinct spatial configuration and thermal properties, especially at a broader Tier 1 level. Further research into spatial configuration of LC patches with similar spatial but different thermal properties is required.
Mapping validity and validation in modelling for interdisciplinary research
Authors: ten Broeke Guus , Tobi Hilde
Published: November 2020

Complex Adaptive Systems (CAS) is an interdisciplinary and dynamic modelling approach for the study of today’s global challenges. It is used for the explanation, description, and prediction of behaviours of system components and the system at large. To understand and assess the quality of research in which CAS models are designed and used, a thorough understanding of the meanings of ‘validity’ from social science research methodology and ‘validation’ from simulation modelling is needed. In this paper, we first describe the modelling process. Then, we analyse the concepts ‘validity’ and ‘validation’ as used in a set of research methodology textbooks and a set of modelling textbooks. We present one single map that integrates validity as characteristic of the model input, the modelling process, model validation, and the validity of the model built. The map is illustrated by means of one example. The terminology proposed in the map allows to describe and distinguish between the validity of primary research used for input in the model, how the quality of the modelling depends on structural and behavioural validation, and, how the assessment of the validity of the model is informed by these types of validation plus research with independent data.
European Insurance Markets in the Face of the 2007 Financial Crisis
Authors: Śliwiński Adam , Michalski Tomasz
Published: November 2020

This study compares the development of insurance markets in countries such as Portugal, Italy, Greece and Spain to mature markets in countries such as the UK and Germany during the 2007 financial crisis. Markets are examined from the product innovation perspective. The market in a country is assessed using taxonomic measures, such as distance and similarity. Markets are described by a set of features divided into five groups: market structure, technical sphere, finance and investment, effectiveness, and product. The measures are calculated at two points in time, 1997 and 2010. The data were gathered from publications of the World Bank, European Union Commission (statistics offices), National Polish Bank and insurance associations. The financial crisis has slowed the speed of market development and influenced other spheres. In countries like Greece and Portugal, progress was even slower than in post-Soviet states, like Poland. The crisis has not imposed structural changes within the selected markets and the influence of the crisis is visible. The sectors were not very innovative, particularly in the product sphere. The literature on the influence of the crisis on insurance is contradictory. This study’s novelty is that it applies multidimensional analysis when comparing insurance-market innovativeness and development.
Designing for emergency remote blended and online education: a response to Bennett et al. (2017)
Authors: Connolly Cornelia , Hall Tony
Published: November 2020

This paper is in response to the article entitled “The process of designing for learning: understanding university teachers’ design work” (Bennett et al. in Educ Technol Res Dev 65(1):125–145, 2017). Design constitutes a fundamental part of what teachers do (Goodyear in HERDSA Rev Higher Educ 2:27–50, 2015). However, it has received negligible attention in the research literature. Bennett et al. make a significant contribution to knowledge by identifying and illustrating how university teachers engage in educational design. In particular, the paper identifies key areas for further support and the professional development of university teachers, including in the use of systematic design models and tools. This will help university teachers significantly, especially during the current pandemic has increased the design workload of university teachers as they endeavour to migrate and transtion their teaching online. Our response discusses Bennett et al. (2017) in the context of emergency remote teaching and the wholesale shift to new modalities of blended and online education. We also offer future suggestions arising from our review, including the importance of further international research on the topic.