bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tolerance analysis for robotic pick-and-place operations
Authors: Tipary Bence , Erdős Gábor
Published: August 2021

Robotic workcell design is a complex process, especially in case of flexible (e.g., bin-picking) workcells. The numerous requirements and the need for continuous system validation on multiple levels place a huge burden on the designers. There are a number of tools for analyzing the different aspects of robotic workcells, such as CAD software, system modelers, or grasp and path planners. However, the precision aspect of the robotic operation is often overlooked and tackled only as a matter of manipulator repeatability. This paper proposes a designer tool to assess the precision feasibility of robotic pick-and-place workcells from the operation point of view. This means that not only the manufacturing tolerances of the workpiece and the placing environment are considered, but the tolerance characteristics of the manipulation and metrology process (in case of flexible applications) as well. Correspondingly, the contribution of the paper is a novel tolerance modeling approach, where the tolerance stack-up is set up as a transformation chain of low-order kinematic pairs between the workpiece, manipulator, and other workcell components, based on manipulation, seizing, releasing, manufacturing, and metrology tolerances. Using this representation, the fulfillment of functional requirements (e.g., picking or placing precision) can be validated based on the tolerance range of corresponding chain members. By having a generalized underlying model, the proposed method covers generic industrial pick-and-place applications, including both conventional and flexible ones. The application of the method is presented in a semi-structured pick-and-place scenario.
The quarter median
Authors: Baringhaus Ludwig , Grübel Rudolf
Published: August 2021

We introduce and discuss a multivariate version of the classical median that is based on an equipartition property with respect to quarter spaces. These arise as pairwise intersections of the half-spaces associated with the coordinate hyperplanes of an orthogonal basis. We obtain results on existence, equivariance, and asymptotic normality.
Marginality and convexity in partition function form games
Authors: Alonso-Meijide J. M. , Álvarez-Mozos M. , Fiestras-Janeiro M. G. , Jiménez-Losada A.
Published: August 2021

In this paper an order on the set of embedded coalitions is studied in detail. This allows us to define new notions of superaddivity and convexity of games in partition function form which are compared to other proposals in the literature. The main results are two characterizations of convexity. The first one uses non-decreasing contributions to coalitions of increasing size and can thus be considered parallel to the classic result for cooperative games without externalities. The second one is based on the standard convexity of associated games without externalities that we define using a partition of the player set. Using the later result, we can conclude that some of the generalizations of the Shapley value to games in partition function form lie within the cores of specific classic games when the original game is convex.
In situ observation of shrinking and swelling of normal and compression Chinese fir wood at the tissue, cell and cell wall level
Authors: Zhan Tianyi , Lyu Jianxiong , Eder Michaela
Published: August 2021

The shrinking and swelling of wood due to moisture changes are intrinsic material properties that control and limit the use of wood in many applications. Herein, hygroscopic deformations of normal and compression wood of Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata[Lamb.] Hook.) were measured during desorption and absorption processes. The dimensional changes were observed in situ by an environmental scanning electron microscope and analyzed at different hierarchical levels (tissue, cell and cell wall). The relationship between moisture variation and hygroscopic deformation was measured. During initial desorption periods from 95 to 90 or 75% RH, an expansion of the lumen and a shrinkage of the cell wall were observed, revealing a non-uniform and directional deformation of single wood cells. The variation of shrinking or swelling at different hierarchical levels (tissue, cell and cell wall) indicates that the hygroscopic middle lamella plays a role in the deformation at the tissue level. Higher microfibril angles and helical cavities on the cell wall in compression wood correlate with a lower shrinking/swelling ratio. Normal wood showed a more pronounced swelling hysteresis than compression wood, while the sorption hysteresis was almost the same for both wood types. This finding is helpful to elucidate effects of micro- and ultrastructure on sorption. The present findings suggest that the sophisticated system of wood has the abilities to adjust the hygroscopic deformations by fine-tuning its hierarchical structures.
Impact of an All‐Female Surgical Team on Moroccan Patient Perspectives of Female Healthcare Providers
Authors: Munabi Naikhoba C. O. , Xepoleas Meredith D. , Vangsness Kella L. , Koualla Sara , Magee William P. , Yao Caroline A.
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Increasing numbers of women in medicine could address Morocco's 5.5‐fold deficit in surgical providers. Cultural perceptions towards women limit female advancement in healthcare. This study evaluates the impact of an all‐female surgical team on Moroccan attitudes.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate how attitudes towards female healthcare professionals changed for Moroccan patients after exposure to a unique, all‐female medical environment.

Methods

Cleft patients were surveyed after a surgery mission with all‐female volunteers in Oujda, Morocco. Analysis included quantitative, qualitative, and mixed‐methods approaches.

Results

Of 121 respondents (94%), 85% and 77% had prior exposure to a female nurse or doctor, respectively. 94% of respondents strongly agreed to receiving high‐quality care. 75% developed increased confidence in female providers. 68% and 69% of respondents, regardless of gender (p = 0.950), felt that having a female nurse or doctor did not impact care. Female patients were more likely than male patients to strongly encourage female relatives to pursue medical careers (p = 0.027). Respondents without prior exposure to female nurses were more likely to: pursue medical careers (p = 0.034), believe female relatives could pursue medical careers (p = 0.006), and encourage them to do so (p = 0.011).

Conclusions

Increased visibility of women improved patient attitudes towards female providers, especially in patients without prior exposure. Initiatives that increase female representation in healthcare may have greater effects in cultures with more gender inequity.
Patient-initiated follow-up of early endometrial cancer: a potential to improve post-treatment cardiovascular risk?
Authors: Johnson Racheal Louise , Choy Cheng
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Is patient-initiated follow-up, post-surgical treatment of early endometrial cancer safe and can it be used holistically to improve cardiovascular health? What are the cost implications of this model of follow-up?

Methods

Retrospective data of 98 patients discharged to patient-initiated scheme since 2012. Service evaluation by anonymous patient feedback including physical health effects of the programme including weight loss. Financial cost was compared to traditional hospital-based follow-up over five years.

Results

No evidence of recurrence over 54 months median follow-up in low-risk endometrioid endometrial cancer. Patient feedback indicates that the exercise course helped women reduce their BMI. Over one third women felt happier and one fifth felt more confident and had a better ability to cope with stress. Total of 91% patients would recommend this model of follow-up to friends or family in the same circumstance. European Society for Medical Oncology guidance suggests the number of hospital-based follow-up appointments required for this cohort would cost £109,760. Calculations in this paper examine the cost of patient-initiated follow-up and reflect an overall saving of around 96.5%.

Conclusion

This service evaluation supports the claim that patient-initiated follow-up represents a safe alternative to the traditional hospital-based protocol. There is a potential for additional services to be offered to encourage and promote a healthy lifestyle linked to improving quality of life and cardiovascular survival following surgery for endometrial cancer.

Implications for cancer survivors

Cardiovascular morbidity is the most common cause of death in endometrial cancer survivors. Incorporating an exercise course as part of routine follow-up can help reduce this risk. The friendships formed by this communal follow-up can contribute towards emotional health and recovery. This holistic approach should be incorporated into novel follow-up strategies to help reduce patient BMI and reduce cardiovascular risk.
Auditory processing in normally hearing individuals with and without tinnitus: assessment with four psychoacoustic tests
Authors: Raj-Koziak Danuta , Gos Elżbieta , Szkiełkowska Agata , Panasiewicz Aleksandra , Karpiesz Lucyna , Kutyba Justyna , Skarzynski Henryk , Skarzynski Piotr H.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

In most cases, tinnitus co-exists with hearing loss, suggesting that poorer speech understanding is simply due to a lack of acoustic information reaching the central nervous system (CNS). However, it also happens that patients with tinnitus who have normal hearing also report problems with speech understanding, and it is possible to suppose that tinnitus is to blame for difficulties in perceptual processing of auditory information. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the auditory processing abilities of normally hearing subjects with and without tinnitus.

Methods

The study group comprised 97 adults, 54 of whom had normal hearing and chronic tinnitus (the study group) and 43 who had normal hearing and no tinnitus (the control group). The audiological assessment comprised pure-tone audiometry and high-frequency pure-tone audiometry, impedance audiometry, and distortion product oto-acoustic emission assessment. To evaluate possible auditory processing deficits, the Frequency Pattern Test (FPT), Duration Pattern Test (DPT), Dichotic Listening Test (DLT), and Gap Detection Threshold (GDT) tests were performed.

Results

The tinnitus subjects had significantly lower scores than the controls in the gap detection test (p < 0.01) and in the dichotic listening test (p < 0.001), but only for the right ear. The results for both groups were similar in the temporal ordering tests (FPT and DPT). Right-ear advantage (REA) was found for the controls, but not for the tinnitus subjects.

Conclusion

In normally hearing patients, the presence of tinnitus may be accompanied with auditory processing difficulties.
Connexin mRNA distribution in adult mouse kidneys
Authors: Geis Lisa , Boudriot Franz-Fabian , Wagner Charlotte
Published: August 2021

Kidneys are thought to express eight different connexin isoforms (i.e., Cx 26, 30, 32, 37, 40, 43, 45, and 46), which form either hemichannels or gap junctions serving to intercellular communication and functional synchronization. Proper function of connexins has already been shown to be crucial for regulation of renal hemodynamics and renin secretion, and there is also growing evidence for connexins to play a role in pathologic conditions such as renal fibrosis or diabetic nephropathy. Therefore, exact intrarenal localization of the different connexin isoforms gains particular interest. Until now intrarenal expression of connexins has mainly been examined by immunohistochemistry, which in part generated conflicting results depending on antibodies and fixation protocols used. In this work, we used fluorescent RNAscope as an alternative technical approach to localize renal connexin mRNAs in healthy mouse kidneys. Addition of RNAscope probes for cell type specific mRNAs was used to assign connexin mRNA signals to specific cell types. We hereby found Cx26 mRNA strongly expressed in proximal tubules, Cx30 mRNA was selectively detected in the urothelium, and Cx32 mRNA was found in proximal tubules and to a lesser extent also in collecting ducts. Cx37 mRNA was mainly associated with vascular endothelium, Cx40 mRNA was largely found in glomerular mesangial and less in vascular endothelial cells, Cx43 mRNA was sparsely expressed by interstitial cells of all kidney zones, and Cx45 mRNA was predominantly found in smooth muscle cell layers of both blood vessels and ureter as well as in mesangial and interstitial (fibroblastic) cells. Cx46 mRNA could not be detected. In summary our results essentially confirm previous data on connexin expression in the renal vasculature and in glomeruli. In addition, they demonstrate strong connexin gene expression in proximal tubules, and they suggest significant connexin expression in resident tubulointerstitial cells.
FMRI and intra-cranial electrocorticography recordings in the same human subjects reveals negative BOLD signal coupled with silenced neuronal activity
Authors: Fracasso Alessio , Gaglianese Anna , Vansteensel Mariska J. , Aarnoutse Erik J. , Ramsey Nick F. , Dumoulin Serge O. , Petridou Natalia
Published: August 2021

Positive blood oxygenation level-dependent (BOLD) responses (PBR), as measured by functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI), are the most utilized measurements to non-invasively map activity in the brain. Recent studies have consistently shown that BOLD responses are not exclusively positive. Negative BOLD responses (NBR) have been reported in response to specific sensory stimulations and tasks. However, the exact relationship between NBR and the underlying metabolic and neuronal demand is still under debate. In this study, we investigated the neurophysiological basis of negative BOLD using fMRI and intra-cranial electrophysiology (electrocorticography, ECoG) measurements from the same human participants. We show that, for those electrodes that responded to visual stimulation, PBR are correlated with high-frequency band (HFB) responses. Crucially, NBR were associated with an absence of HFB power responses and an unpredicted decrease in the alpha power responses.
Structural connectivity and subcellular changes after antidepressant doses of ketamine and Ro 25-6981 in the rat: an MRI and immuno-labeling study
Authors: Pascual-Antón Raquel , Blasco-Serra Arantxa , Muñoz-Moreno Emma , Pilar-Cuéllar Fuencisla , Garro-Martínez Emilio , Florensa-Zanuy Eva , López-Gil Xavier , Campa Víctor M. , Soria Guadalupe , Adell Albert
Published: August 2021

Ketamine has rapid and robust antidepressant effects. However, unwanted psychotomimetic effects limit its widespread use. Hence, several studies examined whether GluN2B-subunit selective NMDA antagonists would exhibit a better therapeutic profile. Although preclinical work has revealed some of the mechanisms of action of ketamine at cellular and molecular levels, the impact on brain circuitry is poorly understood. Several neuroimaging studies have examined the functional changes in the brain induced by acute administration of ketamine and Ro 25-6981 (a GluN2B-subunit selective antagonist), but the changes in the microstructure of gray and white matter have received less attention. Here, the effects of ketamine and Ro 25-6981 on gray and white matter integrity in male Sprague–Dawley rats were determined using diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DWI). In addition, DWI-based structural brain networks were estimated and connectivity metrics were computed at the regional level. Immunohistochemical analyses were also performed to determine whether changes in myelin basic protein (MBP) and neurofilament heavy-chain protein (NF200) may underlie connectivity changes. In general, ketamine and Ro 25-6981 showed some opposite structural alterations, but both compounds coincided only in increasing the fractional anisotropy in infralimbic prefrontal cortex and dorsal raphe nucleus. These changes were associated with increments of NF200 in deep layers of the infralimbic cortex (together with increased MBP) and the dorsal raphe nucleus. Our results suggest that the synthesis of NF200 and MBP may contribute to the formation of new dendritic spines and myelination, respectively. We also suggest that the increase of fractional anisotropy of the infralimbic and dorsal raphe nucleus areas could represent a biomarker of a rapid antidepressant response.
G-optimal designs for hierarchical linear models: an equivalence theorem and a nature-inspired meta-heuristic algorithm
Authors: Liu Xin , Yue RongXian , Zhang Zizhao , Wong Weng Kee
Published: August 2021

Hierarchical linear models are widely used in many research disciplines and estimation issues for such models are generally well addressed. Design issues are relatively much less discussed for hierarchical linear models but there is an increasing interest as these models grow in popularity. This paper discusses theG-optimality for predicting individual parameters in such models and establishes an equivalence theorem for confirming theG-optimality of an approximate design. Because the criterion is non-differentiable and requires solving multiple nested optimization problems, it is much harder to find and studyG-optimal designs analytically. We propose a nature-inspired meta-heuristic algorithm called competitive swarm optimizer (CSO) to generateG-optimal designs for linear mixed models with different means and covariance structures. We further demonstrate that CSO is flexible and generally effective for finding the widely used locallyD-optimal designs for nonlinear models with multiple interacting factors and some of the random effects are correlated. Our numerical results for a few examples suggest thatGandD-optimal designs may be equivalent and we establish thatDandG-optimal designs for hierarchical linear models are equivalent when the models have only a random intercept only. The challenging mathematical question of whether their equivalence applies more generally to other hierarchical models remains elusive.
Consensus-based recommendations for psychosocial support measures for parents and adult children at the end of life: results of a Delphi study in Germany
Authors: Herbst Franziska A. , Gawinski Laura , Schneider Nils , Stiel Stephanie
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The availability of psychosocial support measures has a significant impact on the quality of life of terminally ill and dying patients and the burden experienced by their relatives. To date, no intervention has specifically focused on promoting interaction within the dyads of the following: (1) terminally ill adult children and their parents and (2) terminally ill parents and their adult children. A national Delphi study was conducted to provide appropriate recommendations for dyadic psychosocial support measures.

Methods

Recommendations were formulated from qualitative interview data on the experiences and wishes of patients and family caregivers within these two dyads. Experts from palliative and hospice care providers rated the relevance and feasibility of 21 recommendations on two 4-point Likert-type scales, respectively. Additional suggestions for improvement were captured via free text fields. Individual items were considered consented when ≥ 80% of participants scored 1 (strongly agree) or 2 (somewhat agree) regarding both relevance and feasibility.

Results

A total of 27 experts (35% response rate) completed two Delphi rounds. Following the first round, 13 recommendations were adjusted according to participants’ comments. After the second round, consensus was achieved for all 21 of the initially presented recommendations.

Conclusion

The Delphi-consented recommendations for parents and adult children at the end of life provide the first guidance for hands-on dyadic psychosocial support measures for parent–adult child relationships, specifically. The next step could involve the structured implementation of the recommendations, accompanied by scientific research.

This study was registered on October 27, 2017, with the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS00013206).
New constraints on the exhumation history of the western Tauern Window (European Alps) from thermochronology, thermokinematic modeling, and topographic analysis
Authors: Wolff Reinhard , Hetzel Ralf , Dunkl István , Anczkiewicz Aneta A.
Published: August 2021

The Brenner normal fault bounds the Tauern Window to the west and accommodated a significant portion of the orogen-parallel extension in the Eastern Alps. Here, we use zircon (U–Th)/He, apatite fission track, and apatite (U–Th)/He dating, thermokinematic modeling, and a topographic analysis to constrain the exhumation history of the western Tauern Window in the footwall of the Brenner fault. ZHe ages from an E–W profile (parallel to the slip direction of the fault) decrease westwards from ~ 11 to ~ 8 Ma and suggest a fault-slip rate of 3.9 ± 0.9 km/Myr, whereas AFT and AHe ages show no spatial trends. ZHe and AFT ages from an elevation profile indicate apparent exhumation rates of 1.1 ± 0.7 and 1.0 ± 1.3 km/Myr, respectively, whereas the AHe ages are again spatially invariant. Most of the thermochronological ages are well predicted by a thermokinematic model with a normal fault that slips at a rate of 4.2 km/Myr between ~ 19 and ~ 9 Ma and produces 35 ± 10 km of extension. The modeling reveals that the spatially invariant AHe ages are caused by heat advection due to faulting and posttectonic thermal relaxation. The enigmatic increase of K–Ar phengite and biotite ages towards the Brenner fault is caused by heat conduction from the hot footwall to the cooler hanging wall. Topographic profiles across an N–S valley in the fault footwall indicate 1000 ± 300 m of erosion after faulting ceased, which agrees with the results of our thermokinematic model. Valley incision explains why the Brenner fault is located on the western valley shoulder and not at the valley bottom. We conclude that the ability of thermokinematic models to quantify heat transfer by rock advection and conduction is crucial for interpreting cooling ages from extensional fault systems.
Synthesis and analytical characterization of monomeric N-oxidized derivatives of α-tocopheramine
Authors: Patel Anjan , Hofinger Andreas , Rosenau Thomas
Published: August 2021

α-Tocopheramine has shown great promises as a stabilizer for synthetic and natural polymers, but is also investigated in various biomedical scenarios. Many studies have been hampered by the fact that the oxidation products of α-tocopheramine have not yet been properly identified and their analytical data are still lacking. In the present study, we synthesized and fully analytically characterized all N-oxidation products that can form upon oxidation of α-tocopheramine in aqueous media, including the hydroxylamine, nitroso, and nitro derivative, in this way providing standards for the identification of the so far elusive byproducts. Synthesis and stability of the derivatives are discussed.

Graphic abstract
The association between oral dryness and use of dry-mouth interventions in Sjögren’s syndrome patients
Authors: Assy Z. , Bikker F. J. , Picauly O. , Brand H. S.
Published: August 2021

Objective

Sjögren’s syndrome patients use different dry-mouth interventions for the relieve of their oral dryness. Recently, it was shown that patients with dry-mouth complaints have regional differences in perceived intra-oral dryness. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate whether the use of dry-mouth interventions is related to the perceived regional oral dryness.

Materials and methods

A cross-sectional study was performed among Sjögren’s patients. Volunteers could anonymously administer various questionnaires, including the Regional Oral Dryness Inventory (RODI), Xerostomia Inventory (XI), Bother Index (BI) and a list of dry-mouth interventions.

Results

Sjögren’s syndrome patients use a wide variety for the relieve of oral dryness. “Drinking water’’ and “moistening the lips’’ were used most frequently. Dry-mouth interventions, “drinking water’’, “rinsing of the mouth”, and “drinking small volumes” had significant associations with the RODI-scores of the posterior palate, and anterior and posterior tongue, respectively. On the other hand, “using mouth gel’’ had a significant association with the RODI-scores of the inside cheeks.

Conclusion

Sjögren’s syndrome patients are more likely to use mouth gels when their inside cheeks were experienced as most dry, while they drank water, rinsed their mouth or drank small volumes if the posterior palate, and anterior and posterior tongue were considered as dry. It can be concluded that intra-oral dryness affects dry-mouth perception and thereby also the use of the various dry-mouth interventions.

Clinical relevance

The therapeutic choice of dry-mouth interventions by Sjögren’s syndrome patients seems to some extent to be related to dryness at specific intra-oral regions.
Gilteritinib versus chemotherapy in Japanese patients with FLT3-mutated relapsed/refractory acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Hosono Naoko , Yokoyama Hisayuki , Aotsuka Nobuyuki , Ando Kiyoshi , Iida Hiroatsu , Ishikawa Takayuki , Usuki Kensuke , Onozawa Masahiro , Kizaki Masahiro , Kubo Kohmei , Kuroda Junya , Kobayashi Yukio , Shimizu Takayuki , Chiba Shigeru , Nara Miho , Hata Tomoko , Hidaka Michihiro , Fujiwara Shin-Ichiro , Maeda Yoshinobu , Morita Yasuyoshi , Kusano Mikiko , Lu Qiaoyang , Miyawaki Shuichi , Berrak Erhan , Hasabou Nahla , Naoe Tomoki
Published: August 2021

Background

Until recently, no effective targeted therapies for FLT3-mutated (FLT3mut+) relapsed/refractory (R/R) acute myeloid leukemia (AML) were available in Japan. The FLT3 inhibitor, gilteritinib, was approved in Japan for patients with FLT3mut+ R/R AML based on the phase 3 ADMIRAL trial, which demonstrated the superiority of gilteritinib over salvage chemotherapy (SC) with respect to overall survival (OS; median OS, 9.3 vs 5.6 months, respectively; hazard ratio, 0.64 [95% confidence interval 0.49, 0.83]; P < 0.001).

Methods

We evaluated the Japanese subgroup (n = 48) of the ADMIRAL trial, which included 33 patients randomized to 120-mg/day gilteritinib and 15 randomized to SC.

Results

Median OS was 14.3 months in the gilteritinib arm and 9.6 months in the SC arm. The complete remission/complete remission with partial hematologic recovery rate was higher in the gilteritinib arm (48.5%) than in the SC arm (13.3%). After adjustment for drug exposure, fewer adverse events (AEs) occurred in the gilteritinib arm than in the SC arm. Common grade ≥ 3 AEs related to gilteritinib were febrile neutropenia (36%), decreased platelet count (27%), and anemia (24%).

Conclusion

Findings in Japanese patients are consistent with those of the overall ADMIRAL study population.
A revised version of the Cathcart & El-Jahel model and its application to CDS market
Authors: Radi Davide , Hoang Vu Phuong , Torri Gabriele , Dvořáčková Hana
Published: August 2021

The paper considers the pricing of credit default swaps (CDSs) using a revised version of the credit risk model proposed in Cathcart and El-Jahel (2003). Default occurs either the first time a signaling process breaches a threshold barrier or unexpectedly at the first jump of a Cox process. The intensity of default depends on the risk-free interest rate, which follows a Vasicek process, instead of a Cox-Ingersoll-Ross process as in the original model. This offers two advantages. On the one hand, it allows us to account for negative interest rates which are recently observed, on the other hand, it simplifies the formula for pricing CDSs. The goodness of fit of the model is tested using a dataset of CDS credit spreads related to European companies. The results obtained show a rather satisfactory agreement between theoretical predictions and market data, which is identical to the one obtained with the original model. In addition, the values of the calibrated parameters result to be stable over time and the semi-closed form solution ensures a very fast implementation.
Impact of failed ab-interno trabeculectomy (trabectome) on subsequent XEN45 gel stent implantation in pseudophakic eyes
Authors: Kiessling D. , Rennings C. , Hild M. , Lappas A. , Dietlein T. S. , Roessler G. F. , Widder Randolf Alexander
Published: August 2021

Purpose

To determine the impact of failed ab-interno trabeculectomy on the postoperative outcome of subsequent XEN45 gel stent (Allergan, CA, USA) implantation in pseudophakic eyes.

Methods

In this retrospective single-center study, we included 60 pseudophakic eyes from 60 participants who underwent XEN45 gel stent implantation. Thirty eyes each underwent primary stent implantation (control group) or had previously undergone a failed ab-interno trabeculectomy (trabectome group). The groups were matched at a 1:1 ratio based on the following criteria: preoperative and maximum Intraocular pressure (IOP), preoperative medication score, cup/disk-ratio, follow-up time, best-corrected visual acuity at baseline, age, and the proportion of patients classified as primary open angle glaucoma or exfoliation glaucoma. We defined a successful surgery by the following three scores: an IOP reduction > 20% and IOP at the longest follow-up < 21 mmHg (Score A) or < 18 mmHg (Score B) or IOP ≤ 15 mmHg and an IOP reduction ≥ 40% (Score C). One open conjunctival revision was allowed in all scores, and a repeat surgery was considered a failure.

Results

Following an average follow-up period of 22 ± 12 months, we observed a mean IOP reduction of 38%, from 23.5 ± 5.2–14.5 ± 5.0 mmHg. Comparative analyses between the groups did not reveal a significant difference in the postoperative IOP, postoperative medication score, side effects, revision rate, repeat surgery rate, or success rate.

Conclusions

Trabectome is a viable first-line procedure for medically uncontrolled glaucoma before filtering ab-interno microstent surgery is considered.
Developmental Relations Between Internalising Problems and ADHD in Childhood: a Symptom Level Perspective
Authors: Speyer Lydia Gabriela , Eisner Manuel , Ribeaud Denis , Luciano Michelle , Auyeung Bonnie , Murray Aja Louise
Published: August 2021

ADHD and internalising problems commonly co-occur with up to 50% of children diagnosed with ADHD also suffering from anxiety or depression. However, their developmental relations are currently not well understood. Longitudinal symptom level analyses can provide valuable insights into how difficulties in these areas of psychosocial functioning affect each other. Using Gaussian Graphical Models and Graphical Vector Autoregression Models, this study estimated cross-sectional and longitudinal networks of ADHD and internalising symptoms in 1387 children using parent- and teacher-reported Social Behaviour Questionnaires (SBQ) when children were aged 7, 9 and 11. Cross-sectional and longitudinal networks suggested that ADHD shares reciprocal relations with internalising symptoms through a number of potential bridge symptoms that are primarily connected to anxiety symptoms. High scores on child cannot sit still, is restless, or hyperactive were found to be the strongest bridge symptom acting as an antecedent to higher internalising symptoms whereas child is worried was the strongest antecedent for higher ADHD symptoms. Findings of this study highlight several potential bridge symptoms that may serve as key intervention targets and further emphasise the need for clinicians to assess children presenting with ADHD symptoms for internalising problems and vice versa.
The fall in income inequality during COVID-19 in four European countries
Authors: Clark Andrew E. , D’Ambrosio Conchita , Lepinteur Anthony
Published: August 2021

We here use panel data from the COME-HERE survey to track income inequality during COVID-19 in France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. Relative inequality in equivalent household disposable income among individuals changed in a hump-shaped way between January 2020 and January 2021, with an initial rise from January to May 2020 being more than reversed by September 2020. Absolute inequality also fell over this period. Due to the pandemic some households lost more than others, and government compensation schemes were targeted towards the poorest, implying that on average income differences decreased. Generalized Lorenz domination reveals that these distributive changes reduced welfare in Italy.
Acculturation, Communication Competence, and Family Functioning in Mexican–American Mother–Daughter Dyads
Authors: Marquez Becky , Benitez Tanya , Lister Zephon
Published: August 2021

Little is known of how intergenerational acculturation discrepancy relates to communication skills differences that may influence relationship quality among parents and adult children. Mexican–American mother–daughter dyads (n = 59) were studied using the Actor Partner Interdependence Model to examine dyadic associations of acculturation and communication competence with family functioning and mediation analysis to determine the indirect effect of acculturation discrepancy on family functioning through communication competence differences. Communication competence of mothers exerted significant actor and partner effects on daughter-perceived cohesion and closeness. Higher acculturation discrepancy predicted greater communication competence difference which in turn was associated with lower cohesion and closeness. There was a significant indirect effect of acculturation discrepancy on daughter-perceived cohesion through communication competence difference. Communication competence of mothers impacts their own as well as their daughters’ perceptions of dyad cohesion and closeness. Intergenerational discrepant acculturation contributes to discordant communication skills that impair family functioning, which has implications for psychological well-being.
Formation of highly resistive SiO2 nanoparticle layers from the aerosol by electrostatic precipitation at 200 °C: observations on back corona and nanoparticle layer structure
Authors: Bürger Patrick , Riebel Ulrich
Published: August 2021

In this study, a flame-generated nm-range SiO2 aerosol (approx. 170 nm median aggregate diameter) is fed into an electrostatic precipitator with an operating temperature of 200 °C. While a highly porous layer of SiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) is deposited by electrostatic precipitation, a decrease of current uptake is observed initially, indicating exceptionally high values of the electric field within the layer (> 100 kV/mm) and of the layer resistivity (> 1013 Ω∙cm). Later a strong (13- to 17-fold) increase of current uptake is observed. Aerosol charge measurements show that charges of opposite polarity are emitted from the NP layer. Investigation of the NP layer by SEM shows that charge-emitting structures with a polarity-dependent morphology develop on an originally homogeneous NP layer. Based on the experimental evidence, the mechanisms of charge emission and structure formation are discussed. Charge emission from the precipitated dust layer is known as back corona in the field of electrostatic precipitation. It appears that the mechanisms of back corona observed with SiO2 NP layers are quite distinct from those observed with µm-range particles. While gas discharges inside the NP layer are suppressed due to small pore size, back corona inside the NP layers is apparently initiated by thermionic field emission of free electrons and secondary electron multiplication within the NP layer.
Emergent Bioanalogous Properties of Blockchain-based Distributed Systems
Authors: Abramov Oleg , Bebell Kirstin L. , Mojzsis Stephen J.
Published: August 2021

We apply a novel definition of biological systems to a series of reproducible observations on a blockchain-based distributed virtual machine (dVM). We find that such blockchain-based systems display a number of bioanalogous properties, such as response to the environment, growth and change, replication, and homeostasis, that fit some definitions of life. We further present a conceptual model for a simple self-sustaining, self-organizing, self-regulating distributed ‘organism’ as an operationally closed system that would fulfill all basic definitions and criteria for life, and describe developing technologies, particularly artificial neural network (ANN) based artificial intelligence (AI), that would enable it in the near future. Notably, such systems would have a number of specific advantages over biological life, such as the ability to pass acquired traits to offspring, significantly improved speed, accuracy, and redundancy of their genetic carrier, and potentially unlimited lifespans. Public blockchain-based dVMs provide an uncontained environment for the development of artificial general intelligence (AGI) with the capability to evolve by self-direction.
How the Geomagnetic Field Influences Life on Earth – An Integrated Approach to Geomagnetobiology
Authors: Erdmann Weronika , Kmita Hanna , Kosicki Jakub Z. , Kaczmarek Łukasz
Published: August 2021

Earth is one of the inner planets of the Solar System, but – unlike the others – it has an oxidising atmosphere, relatively stable temperature, and a constant geomagnetic field (GMF). The GMF does not only protect life on Earth against the solar wind and cosmic rays, but it also shields the atmosphere itself, thus creating relatively stable environmental conditions. What is more, the GMF could have influenced the origins of life: organisms from archaea to plants and animals may have been using the GMF as a source of spatial information since the very beginning. Although the GMF is constant, it does undergo various changes, some of which, e.g. a reversal of the poles, weaken the field significantly or even lead to its short-term disappearance. This may result in considerable climatic changes and an increased frequency of mutations caused by the solar wind and cosmic radiation. This review analyses data on the influence of the GMF on different aspects of life and it also presents current knowledge in the area. In conclusion, the GMF has a positive impact on living organisms, whereas a diminishing or disappearing GMF negatively affects living organisms. The influence of the GMF may also be an important factor determining both survival of terrestrial organisms outside Earth and the emergence of life on other planets.
In Vitro Antioxidant Capacity of Opuntia spp. Fruits Measured by the LOX-FL Method and its High Sensitivity Towards Betalains
Authors: Gómez-Maqueo Andrea , Soccio Mario , Cano M. Pilar
Published: August 2021

Current in vitro methodologies neglect or subestimate the contribution of betalains to antioxidant capacity in foods because they do not reflect their in vivo biological mechanisms. In this study, we assessed the sensibility of the lipoxygenase-fluorescein (LOX-FL) method towards betalains, phenolic compounds and ascorbic acid from Opuntia spp. fruits; and (ii) the antioxidant capacity of peel and pulp extracts from Opuntia ficus-indica L. Mill (var. Fresa, Colorada and Blanco) and Opuntia stricta var. Dillenii; by comparing the LOX-FL method to traditional antioxidant methods (ORAC and TEAC). The spectrophotometric monitoring of the LOX-FL reaction avoided interference caused by betalain pigments. Indicaxanthin and betanin showed high antiperoxidative and radical scavenging mechanisms in the LOX-FL assay. O. stricta var. Dillenii tissues the highest antioxidant capacity which correlated with betanin content. ORAC and TEAC antioxidant methods were less sensible towards betalain antioxidant activity. To our knowledge, this is the first time the LOX-FL antioxidant method has been used on betalains and betalain-rich foods.

Graphical Abstract
Differential stability properties in convex scalar and vector optimization
Authors: An D. T. V. , Gutiérrez C.
Published: August 2021

This paper focuses on formulas for theε-subdifferential of the optimal value function of scalar and vector convex optimization problems. These formulas can be applied when the set of solutions of the problem is empty. In the scalar case, both unconstrained problems and problems with an inclusion constraint are considered. For the last ones, limiting results are derived, in such a way that no qualification conditions are required. The main mathematical tool is a limiting calculus rule for theε-subdifferential of the sum of convex and lower semicontinuous functions defined on a (non necessarily reflexive) Banach space. In the vector case, unconstrained problems are studied and exact formulas are derived by linear scalarizations. These results are based on a concept of infimal set, the notion of cone proper set and anε-subdifferential for convex vector functions due to Taa.
Technological, functional and safety properties of lactobacilli isolates from soft wheat sourdough and their potential use as antimould cultures
Authors: Mota-Gutierrez Jatziri , Franciosa Irene , Ruggirello Marianna , Dolci Paola
Published: August 2021

Bakery products are a common medium for fungal growth due to their high-water activity and nutrients availability. The application of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolated from wheat bran or other cereals has shown great potential in controlling the growth of spoilage fungi, guarantee quality and prolong the shelf life of bakery products. This study outlines the antifungal, technological, functional and safety properties of autochthonous LAB microbiota isolated from type 0 soft wheat sourdough fermentation. Antifungal activity of 77 LAB belonging to Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Lacticaseibacillus casei species isolated from spontaneous sourdough fermentation was tested in vitro against 16 spoilage fungi. Our findings demonstrated that the antifungal activity, enzymatic and safety properties of LAB isolates vary strain-dependently. Four LAB isolates (Lp. plantarum A16, A25, B11, and B15) showed the best traits, in particular strong antifungal activity and good capabilities to produce exopolysaccharides from different carbon sources in vitro. Care should be taken when using Lp. plantarum A310 and B18 and Lc. casei A23, as starter cultures, since these isolates exhibited a multiple antibiotic-resistance. Here we showed the promising potential of different LAB isolates as bio-preservative agents and to provide new insights regarding their prospective use as starter cultures to guarantee safety and palatability.

Graphic abstract
Molecular biomarker responses in the freshwater mussel Anodonta anatina exposed to an industrial wastewater effluent
Authors: Ekelund Ugge Gustaf MO , Jonsson Annie , Berglund Olof
Published: August 2021

Using a selection of molecular biomarkers, we evaluated responses in freshwater mussels (Anodonta anatina) exposed to effluent from an industrial wastewater treatment facility. The aims of this work were to (1) assess biomarkers of general toxicity under sublethal exposure to an anthropogenic mixture of chemicals, represented by an arbitrary effluent, and (2) evaluate the potential ofA. anatinaas a bioindicator of pollution. Adult mussels (n =in total 32; 24 males and 8 females) were exposed (96 h) in the laboratory to a fixed dilution of effluent or to a control treatment of standardized freshwater. Metal concentrations were in general higher in the effluent, by an order of magnitude or more, compared to the control. Toxic unit estimates were used as proxies of chemical stress, and Cu, Ni, and Zn were identified as potential major contributors (Cu> Ni > Zn). Six transcriptional (cat,gst,hsp70,hsp90,mt,sod) and two biochemical (AChE, GST) biomarkers were analyzed in two tissues, gills, and digestive glands. Out of the 16 responses (eight biomarkers × two tissues), 14 effect sizes were small (within ± 28 % of control) and differences non-significant (p> 0.05). Results did however show that (1) AChE activity increased by 40% in gills of exposed mussels compared to control, (2)hsp90expression was 100% higher in exposed female gills compared to control, and (3) three marker signals (AChE in both tissues, andhsp70in gills) differed between sexes, independent of treatment. Results highlight a need for further investigation of molecular biomarker variability and robustness inA. anatina.
Characterisation of inorganic constitutions of condensate and solid residue generated from small-scale ex situ experiments in the context of underground coal gasification
Authors: Sadasivam Sivachidambaram , Zagorščak Renato , Thomas Hywel Rhys , Kapusta Krzysztof , Stańczyk Krzysztof
Published: August 2021

This paper deals with the characterisation of inorganic constitutions generated at various operating conditions in the context of underground coal gasification (UCG). The ex situ small-scale experiments were conducted with coal specimens of different rank, from the South Wales Coalfield, Wales, UK, and Upper Silesian Coal Basin, Poland. The experiments were conducted at various gaseous oxidant ratios (water: oxygen = 1:1 and 2:1), pressures (20 bar and 36 bar) and temperatures (650°C, 750°C and 850°C). Increasing the amount of water in the oxidants proportionately decreased the cationic elements but increased the concentrations of anionic species. The temperature played minor impact, while the high-pressure experiments at temperature optimum to produce methane-rich syngas (750°C) showed significant reduction in cationic element generation. However, both coal specimens produced high amount of anionic species (F, Cl, SO4 and NO3). The “Hard” bituminous coal from Poland produced less gasification residues and condensates than the South Wales anthracitic coal due to its higher reactivity. The inorganic composition found in the solid residue was used in the theoretical calculation to predict the dissolved product concentrations when the solid residue interacts with deep coal seam water in the event of UCG cavity flooding. It was evident from the solubility products of the Cr, Ni and Zn that changes in the groundwater geochemistry occur; hence, their transportation in the subsurface must be studied further.
A virtual reality simulator for training the surgical reduction of patient-specific supracondylar humerus fractures
Authors: Negrillo-Cárdenas José , Jiménez-Pérez Juan-Roberto , Madeira Joaquim , Feito Francisco R.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Virtual reality has been used as a training platform in medicine, allowing the repetition of a situation/scenario as many times as needed and making it patient-specific prior to an operation. Of special interest is the minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO). It represents a novel technique for orthopedic trauma surgery, but requires intensive training to acquire the required skills. In this paper, we propose a virtual reality platform for training the surgical reduction of supracondylar fractures of the humerus using MIPO. The system presents a detailed surgical theater where the surgeon has to place the bone fragments properly.

Methods

Seven experienced users were selected to perform a surgical reduction using our proposal. Two paired humeri were scanned from a dataset obtained from the Complejo Hospitalario de Jaén. A virtual fracture was performed in one side of the pair, using the other as contralateral part. Users have to simulate a reduction for each case and fill out a survey about usability, using a five-option Likert scale.

Results

The subjects have obtained excellent scores in both simulations. The users have notably reduced the time employed in the second experiment, being 60% less in average. Subjects have valued the usability (5.0), the intuitiveness (4.6), comfort (4.5), and realism (4.9) in a 1–5 Likert scale. The mean score of the usability survey was 4.66.

Conclusion

The system has shown a high learning rate, and it is expected that the trainees will reach an expert level after additional runs. By focusing on the movement of bone fragments, specialists acquire motor skills to avoid the malrotation of MIPO-treated fractures. A future study can fulfill the requirements needed to include this training system into the protocol of real surgeries. Therefore, we expect the system to increase the confidence of the trainees as well as to improve their decision making.