bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The iRhom homology domain is indispensable for ADAM17-mediated TNFα and EGF receptor ligand release
Authors: Düsterhöft Stefan , Kahveci-Türköz Selcan , Wozniak Justyna , Seifert Anke , Kasparek Petr , Ohm Henrike , Liu Shixin , Kopkanova Jana , Lokau Juliane , Garbers Christoph , Preisinger Christian , Sedlacek Radislav , Freeman Matthew , Ludwig Andreas
Published: May 2021

Membrane-tethered signalling proteins such as TNFα and many EGF receptor ligands undergo shedding by the metalloproteinase ADAM17 to get released. The pseudoproteases iRhom1 and iRhom2 are important for the transport, maturation and activity of ADAM17. Yet, the structural and functional requirements to promote the transport of the iRhom-ADAM17 complex have not yet been thoroughly investigated. Utilising in silico and in vitro methods, we here map the conserved iRhom homology domain (IRHD) and provide first insights into its structure and function. By focusing on iRhom2, we identified different structural and functional factors within the IRHD. We found that the structural integrity of the IRHD is a key factor for ADAM17 binding. In addition, we identified a highly conserved motif within an unstructured region of the IRHD, that, when mutated, restricts the transport of the iRhom-ADAM17 complex through the secretory pathway in in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo systems and also increases the half-life of iRhom2 and ADAM17. Furthermore, the disruption of this IRHD motif was also reflected by changes in the yet undescribed interaction profile of iRhom2 with proteins involved in intracellular vesicle transport. Overall, we provide the first insights into the forward trafficking of iRhoms which is critical for TNFα and EGF receptor signalling.
Perturbation Analysis for the Surface Deflection Angle of Ekman-Type Flows with Variable Eddy Viscosity
Authors: Roberti Luigi
Published: May 2021

In the setting of steady wind-driven oceanic currents in a non-equatorial two-layer ocean with constant eddy viscosity in the lower layer and a general continuous eddy viscosity profile in the upper layer, we derive a formula for the change of the surface deflection angle due to a perturbation (in the upper layer) of a given eddy viscosity profile for which the solution to the problem is known. This extends and generalizes previous results for perturbations of a constant eddy viscosity. The perturbation analysis is performed using a recent reformulation of the linear second-order governing equations for Ekman-type flows as a nonlinear first-order Riccati-type equation.
Technologiebasierte Interventionen zur Alkoholprävention bei Kindern und Jugendlichen
Authors: Diestelkamp Silke , Schulz Anna-Lena , Thomasius Rainer
Published: May 2021

Hintergrund

Ein früher Einstieg und der exzessive Alkoholkonsum im Kindes- und Jugendalter erhöhen das Risiko für Krankheit, Abhängigkeit und andere kurz-, mittel- und langfristige Beeinträchtigungen durch z. B. Unfälle, Gewalthandlungen und Konflikte. Face-to-Face-Präventionsansätze zeigen signifikante Effekte auf die Reduktion des Alkoholkonsums. Die Inanspruchnahme durch Kinder und Jugendliche mit riskantem Alkoholkonsum ist jedoch oft gering. Technologiebasierte Alkoholprävention hat das Potenzial, mit kosteneffektiven, standardisierten und niedrigschwelligen Maßnahmen die Zielgruppe zu erreichen.

Fragestellung und Methode

Das vorliegende narrative Review bietet einen Überblick über verschiedene Ansätze technologiebasierter Maßnahmen zur Prävention und Frühintervention riskanten Alkoholkonsums bei Kindern und Jugendlichen sowie deren Wirksamkeit und Einsatzbereiche.

Ergebnisse

Technologiebasierte Alkoholprävention kann in einer Vielfalt von Settings eingesetzt werden, z. B. Schule, Gemeinde, hausärztliche Versorgung oder Klinik. Programme werden häufig via interaktive Website mit oder ohne Einbettung in Face-to-Face-Module, via App oder SMS-Nachrichten umgesetzt. Während die kumulierte Evidenz bei Erwachsenen und jungen Erwachsenen für die Wirksamkeit technologiebasierter Alkoholprävention spricht, ist die Studienlage für Kinder und Jugendliche heterogen.

Diskussion

Der Einsatz von technologiebasierter Alkoholprävention bei Kindern und Jugendlichen bietet theoretisch großes Potenzial im Hinblick auf Zielgruppenerreichung, Kosteneffektivität und Nutzereinbindung. Im Fokus zukünftiger Forschung sollten Studienreplikationen und die Evaluation der Wirksamkeit einzelner Elemente stehen, wie etwa der Individualisierung von Inhalten, der Nutzereinbindung durch multiple Kontaktaufnahmen und des Einsatzes von multimedialen Elementen und Funktionen.
An uncombined triple-frequency user implementation of the decoupled clock model for PPP-AR
Authors: Naciri Nacer , Bisnath Sunil
Published: May 2021

Precise point positioning (PPP) has proved its capacity to provide centimetre-level position solutions in open sky environments. However, the technique still suffers from relatively long initial convergence times. Research has proved the potential of ambiguity resolution (AR) to reduce the convergence time and three main methods are used to perform AR: the fractional cycle bias method, the decoupled clock model (DCM) and the integer recovery clock method. This paper focuses on the DCM and expands it at the user side to better fit the current context. Seeing as multi-frequency processing is proving to improve PPP performance, the classical DCM model is extended from a combined dual-frequency model to an uncombined triple-frequency one. The user implementation is tested on 1400, 3-h-long datasets from global IGS stations for 1 week with the Galileo constellation in both static and kinematic modes. First, some of the model-specific parameters are plotted and the estimated receiver biases are visualized. Then, dual- and triple-frequency PPP-AR results are shown. In both frequency modes, the convergence time and accuracy of the float solutions are improved with AR. In the dual-frequency case, the 100-percentile mean convergence time reduces from 19 min for the float solution to 14 min for the fixed solution, and the horizontal root mean square error improves 2.7 to 1.1 cm. In the triple-frequency case, the convergence time reduces from 17.5 min for the float solution to 9.5 min for the fixed solution, and the accuracy improves from 2.6 to 1.0 cm. These results show a minimal improvement in the accuracy between the dual-frequency and triple-frequency AR solutions, and a significant 40–50$$\%$$
%
improvement in the convergence time. Future work includes applying these developments to multi-constellation PPP-AR, which would further reduce the convergence time.
Blast enhancement from metalized explosives
Authors: Pontalier Q. , Loiseau J. , Goroshin S. , Zhang F. , Frost D. L.
Published: May 2021

Experiments are carried out to determine the effects of particle size and mass loading on the free-field blast wave from spherical, constant volume metalized explosive charges. The charges are comprised of gelled nitromethane with uniformly embedded aluminum, magnesium, or glass particles. Particle sizes are varied over an order of magnitude with particle mass fractions up to 50%. Peak blast overpressures are directly measured within the fireball with piezoelectric pressure gauges and outside the fireball are inferred by tracking the velocity of the blast wave and using the Rankine–Hugoniot relation. With the addition of inert particles, the peak blast overpressure is initially mitigated, but then recovers in the far field. For charges with reactive particles, the particles react promptly with oxidizers in the detonation products and release energy as early as within the first few hundred microseconds in all cases. The particle energy release enhances the peak blast overpressures in the far field by up to twice the values for a constant volume charge of the baseline homogenous explosive. By plotting the peak blast overpressure decay as a function of energy-scaled distance, it is inferred that at least half of the particle energy release contributes to the blast overpressure in the far field of higher mass loadings, and nearly all of the particle energy for a particle mass fraction of 10%. For aluminum, the blast augmentation is not a systematic function of particle size. This observation implies that conventional models for particle combustion that depend on particle surface area are not appropriate for describing the rapid aluminum reaction that occurs in the extreme conditions within the detonation products, which influences the blast wave propagation.
Sign- and goal-tracking score does not correlate with addiction-like behavior following prolonged cocaine self-administration
Authors: Pohořalá Veronika , Enkel Thomas , Bartsch Dusan , Spanagel Rainer , Bernardi Rick E.
Published: May 2021

Rationale

In classical conditioning, sign-tracking reflects behavior directed toward a conditioned stimulus (CS) in expectation of a reward (unconditioned stimulus, US); in contrast, goal-tracking describes behavior directed toward the location of delivery of a US. As cues previously paired with drugs of abuse promote drug-seeking and drug-taking behavior in both animals and humans and thus contribute to the severity of substance abuse, sign-tracking may represent a maladaptive cue-focused behavior that may increase addiction vulnerability as compared to goal-tracking. Recent studies do, in fact, support this possibility. Previous work in this area has focused primarily on paradigms using relatively limited exposure to drug rather than extended drug intake.

Objectives

Here, we used the DSM-IV–based 3-criteria (3-CRIT) model and examined whether a relationship exists between sign- or goal-tracking phenotypes and the prevalence of criteria associated with addiction-like behavior following extended cocaine self-administration as measured in this model.

Methods

Forty-six male Sprague Dawley rats underwent a Pavlovian conditioned approach (PCA) procedure and were characterized along a continuum as goal-trackers (GTs), intermediates (INTs), or sign-trackers (STs). The animals were subsequently trained to intravenous self-administer cocaine during 45 self-administration (SA) sessions and characterized for the 3 criteria outlined in the model: persistence of drug-seeking, motivation for cocaine-taking, and resistance to punishment.

Results

We performed correlational analyses on the traits measured, finding no relationships between PCA score and addiction-like characteristics measured using the 3-CRIT model of addiction. However, STs showed significantly greater resistance to punishment than GTs.

Conclusions

Phenotyping along a continuum of PCA scores may not be a valid predictor for identifying vulnerability to the addiction-like behaviors examined using the 3-CRIT model. However, PCA phenotype may predict a single feature of the 3-CRIT model, resistance to punishment, among those rats classified as either STs or GTs.
Is fetal magnetic resonance imaging volumetry of eventrated organs in gastroschisis predictive for surgical treatment?
Authors: Sezen Patrick , Prayer Florian , Prayer Daniela , Kasprian Gregor , Metzelder Martin
Published: May 2021

Background

Fetal MRI is increasingly used in congenital abdominal wall defects. In gastroschisis, the role of fetal MRI in surgical therapy is poorly understood. Currently, the type of repair is determined primarily by clinical presentation and institutional preference.

Objective

To evaluate the feasibility of fetal MRI volumetry in gastroschisis treatment.

Materials and methods

We included 22 cases of gastroschisis in this retrospective single-center study. Routine fetal MRI scans were acquired between Jan. 1, 2006, and July 1, 2018, at gestational ages of 19–34 postmenstrual weeks. Fetal-MRI-based manual segmentation and volumetry were performed utilizing steady-state free precision and T2-weighted sequences. Acquired parameters included intraabdominal volume, eventrated organ volume and total fetal body volume, and we calculated a volume ratio between eventrated organ volume and intraabdominal volume (E/I ratio).

Results

Primary closure was conducted in 13 cases and silo bag treatment with delayed closure in 9 cases. Prenatal MRI volumetry showed a significantly higher E/I ratio in patients with silo bag treatment with delayed closure (mean [M]=0.34; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.30, 0.40) than in primary closure (M=0.23, 95% CI 0.19, 0.27; P=0.004). We propose a volume ratio cutoff value of 0.27 for predicting silo bag treatment.

Conclusion

Fetal MRI predicted silo bag treatment in patients with gastroschisis in 90% of the cases in our cohort and might facilitate prenatal counseling and treatment planning.
The pentose phosphate pathway in industrially relevant fungi: crucial insights for bioprocessing
Authors: Masi Audrey , Mach Robert L. , Mach-Aigner Astrid R.
Published: May 2021

The pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) is one of the most targeted pathways in metabolic engineering. This pathway is the primary source of NADPH, and it contributes in fungi to the production of many compounds of interest such as polyols, biofuels, carotenoids, or antibiotics. However, the regulatory mechanisms of the PPP are still not fully known. This review provides an insight into the current comprehension of the PPP in fungi and the limitations of this current understanding. It highlights how this knowledge contributes to targeted engineering of the PPP and thus to better performance of industrially used fungal strains.

Key points

• Type of carbon and nitrogen source as well as oxidative stress influence the PPP.

• A complex network of transcription factors regulates the PPP.

• Improved understanding of the PPP will allow to increase yields of bioprocesses.
The human anti-CD40 agonist antibody mitazalimab (ADC-1013; JNJ-64457107) activates antigen-presenting cells, improves expansion of antigen-specific T cells, and enhances anti-tumor efficacy of a model cancer vaccine in vivo
Authors: Deronic Adnan , Nilsson Anneli , Thagesson Mia , Werchau Doreen , Enell Smith Karin , Ellmark Peter
Published: May 2021

Non-responders to checkpoint inhibitors generally have low tumor T cell infiltration and could benefit from immunotherapy that activates dendritic cells, with priming of tumor-reactive T cells as a result. Such therapies may be augmented by providing tumor antigen in the form of cancer vaccines. Our aim was to study the effects of mitazalimab (ADC-1013; JNJ-64457107), a human anti-CD40 agonist IgG1 antibody, on activation of antigen-presenting cells, and how this influences the priming and anti-tumor potential of antigen-specific T cells, in mice transgenic for human CD40. Mitazalimab activated splenic CD11c+ MHCII+ dendritic cells and CD19+ MHCII+ B cells within 6 h, with a return to baseline within 1 week. This was associated with a dose-dependent release of proinflammatory cytokines in the blood, including IP-10, MIP-1α and TNF-α. Mitazalimab administered at different dose regimens with ovalbumin protein showed that repeated dosing expanded ovalbumin peptide (SIINFEKL)-specific CD8+ T cells and increased the frequency of activated ICOS+ T cells and CD44hi CD62L− effector memory T cells in the spleen. Mitazalimab prolonged survival of mice bearing MB49 bladder carcinoma tumors and increased the frequency of activated granzyme B+ CD8+ T cells in the tumor. In the ovalbumin-transfected tumor E.G7-OVA lymphoma, mitazalimab administered with either ovalbumin protein or SIINFEKL peptide prolonged the survival of E.G7-OVA tumor-bearing mice, as prophylactic and therapeutic treatment. Thus, mitazalimab activates antigen-presenting cells, which improves expansion and activation of antigen-specific T cells and enhances the anti-tumor efficacy of a model cancer vaccine.
The role of sex genotype in paediatric CNS tumour incidence and survival
Authors: Soon Wai Cheong , Goacher Edward , Solanki Sandeep , Hayes Josie , Kapetanstrataki Melpo , Picton Susan , Chumas Paul Dominic , Mathew Ryan Koshy
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Evidence exists, in CNS germinomas and medulloblastomas (MB), that patient sex significantly influences incidence and outcome. The role of sex genotype in other paediatric CNS tumours remains unclear. This study sought to examine the role of sex genotype in CNS tumour incidence and overall survival (OS).

Methods

Age-adjusted incidence and OS rates were collected from the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Result (SEER) registry between 2000 and 2011 for common paediatric (<=19 years) CNS tumours: pilocytic astrocytoma (PA), anaplastic astrocytoma, glioblastoma (GBM), medulloblastoma, supratentorial CNS embryonal tumour, ependymoma, and germinoma. All patients with histologically confirmed, ICD-03 coded, first tumours, were included. Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analyses were used to calculate hazard ratios (HR).

Results

The total cases are as follows: males=3018 and females=2276. Highest incidence was seen in PA (n=2103). GBM displayed the worst OS, whilst PA displayed the best. Higher incidence was observed in males for all tumours, except PA. Females with ependymoma had significantly better OS compared to males, whereas males with germinomas had better OS compared to females. Females <1 year with AA had better OS than males. Increasing age significantly improved male and female survival in ependymoma and medulloblastoma.

Conclusion

Interrogating population-based registries such as SEER minimises bias and provides credible data. Observed differences in incidence and OS between the sexes for different paediatric CNS tumours provide useful prognostic information for clinicians. Sex genotype was a significant independent prognostic factor in ependymomas and germinomas. Further investigation of possible epigenetic and hormonal differences may provide sex-specific vulnerabilities that may be exploitable for targeted therapy.
A standardized soft tissue release technique to lower the risk of greater trochanteric fractures for the anterior approach in total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Rueckl Kilian , Springer Bernhard , Jungwirth-Weinberger Anna , Bechler Ulrich , Kasparek Maximillian F. , Boettner Friedrich
Published: May 2021

Introduction

The direct anterior approach (DAA) is suggested to accelerate postoperative recovery and decrease the dislocation risk after primary total hip arthroplasty (THA). However, exposure of the femur can be challenging. Insufficient exposure increases the risk for intraoperative femoral fracture.

Materials and methods

Of 435 consecutive anterior THA, the first 102 consecutive THA in 94 patients were treated with an external rotator tendon “release-on-demand” (RoD). The following 311 consecutive patients (333 THA) underwent routine release of the conjoint tendon (CTR) of its bony insertion on the greater trochanter only. Retrospective analysis recorded trochanteric fractures, intraoperative calcar fractures, postoperative periprosthetic fractures, stem subsidence, ossifications, and dislocations.

Results

Three (2.9%) fractures of the greater trochanter were recorded in the RoD group, but no (0.0%) fractures occurred in the CTR group (p = 0.002). There was no significant difference in the occurrence of intraoperative calcar fractures (0% (RoD) vs. 1.2% (CTR), p = 0.267), postoperative periprosthetic fractures (0% (RoD) vs. 0.3% (CTR), p = 0.560), stem subsidence (2.0% (RoD) vs. 1.2% (CTR), p = 0.565) or ossifications (2.9% (RoD) vs. 1.6% (CTR), p = 0.344) between these groups. There were no dislocations within a minimum 12 months follow-up period.

Conclusion

The routine release of the conjoined tendon (CTR group) decreases the shear forces on the tip of the greater trochanter during DAA THA and eliminates the risk of greater trochanter fractures. The routine release of the conjoined tendon did not increase the risk of postoperative dislocations.
First report of a leopard (Panthera pardus)–bonobo (Pan paniscus) encounter at the LuiKotale study site, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Corredor-Ospina Nicolas , Kreyer Melodie , Rossi Giulia , Hohmann Gottfried , Fruth Barbara
Published: May 2021

Predation is a major cause of mortality in non-human primates, and considered a selective force in the evolution of primate societies. Although larger body size is considered as protection against predation, evidence for predation on great apes by carnivores comes from chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes), gorillas (Gorilla gorilla), and orangutans (Pongospp.). Here, we describe the first encounter between wild bonobos (Pan paniscus) and a leopard (Panthera pardus). A single leopard was confronted by a group of habituated bonobos for three hours. Two adult males and one adolescent female bonobo actively harassed the leopard, which remained still for most of the encounter and reacted only to close approaches by bonobos. While no predation was observed, their behaviours confirm that bonobos perceive leopards as potential predators. Our report adds novel information to descriptions from other African ape species, and sheds light on the behavioural repertoire of bonobos’ anti-predation strategies. For future investigations, we suggest tagging leopards to remotely monitor their movements and allow assessment of encounter rates as one of several factors influencing predation pressure.
Programmed death ligand 2 expression plays a limited role in adenocarcinomas of the gastroesophageal junction after preoperative chemotherapy
Authors: Jomrich Gerd , Kollmann Dagmar , Wilfing Lavinia , Radosavljevic Sanja , Ramazanova Dariga , Ristl Robin , Grose Richard P. , Ilhan-Mutlu Aysegül , Preusser Matthias , Fassnacht Christina , Tsai Yi-Chien , Guenova Emmanuella , Schoppmann Sebastian F.
Published: May 2021

Background

The effects of cytotoxic chemotherapy on the expression of programmed death ligand 2 (PD-L2) are unknown and little is known about how the tumor microenvironment changes following neoadjuvant chemotherapy in locally advanced gastroesophageal adenocarcinomas (AEG). Recently, a number of studies reported that cytotoxic chemotherapy affects the expression levels of programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) and its ligand 1 (PD-L1). Regarding PD-L2, the second known ligand of PD‑1, no data on potential changes in expression patterns in patients with preoperatively treated AEG are available. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of cytotoxic chemotherapy on PD-L2 expression in patients with resectable AEG.

Methods

Consecutive patients with locally advanced AEG treated with preoperative cytotoxic chemotherapy were included. PD-L2 expression by cancer cells (CCs) and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) was investigated in samples of paired diagnostic biopsies and resected tumor specimens by immunohistochemistry using two different anti-PD-L2 antibodies.

Results

Included were 40 patients with AEG and available paired tumor tissue samples. PD-L2 expression was observed in one diagnostic biopsy sample by CCs and in one diagnostic biopsy sample by TILs. There was no difference concerning the expression levels measured by the two antibodies.

Conclusion

In contrast to previously published studies reporting PD-L2 expression rates of up to 50% in AEGs, in our cohort, PD-L2 expression seems to play no significant role in AEG.
From Survival to Glamour: Motivations for Engaging in Transactional Sex and Relationships Among Adolescent Girls and Young Women in South Africa
Authors: Duby Zoe , Jonas Kim , McClinton Appollis Tracy , Maruping Kealeboga , Vanleeuw Lieve , Kuo Caroline , Mathews Catherine
Published: May 2021

We explored transactional sex and relationships (TSR) among South African adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) using (1) survey data from 4,399 AGYW aged 15–24 years, and (2) qualitative data from 237 AGYW and 38 male peers. Ten percent of sexually active AGYW reported having ever had transactional sex; 14% reported having stayed in a relationship for money or material items. Factors associated with higher reporting of TSR included HIV positivity, higher food insecurity, and alcohol use. Those AGYW who were between the ages of 20–24 years (OR: 1.0; 95% CI: 0.81–1.24), had a sexual partner older than her by 5 years or more (OR: 1.89; 95% CI: 1.58–2.26), and had a transactional relationship in the past (OR: 61.1; 95% CI: 47.37–78.76) were more likely to report having transactional sex. AGYW qualitative narratives included both assertions of agency in choosing to engage in TSR, and power inequities resulting in condomless sex. Our findings can inform interventions to addressing transactional sex and relationships, critical to South Africa’s HIV response.
Mechanisms of breast cancer metastasis
Authors: Nathanson S. David , Detmar Michael , Padera Timothy P. , Yates Lucy R. , Welch Danny R. , Beadnell Thomas C. , Scheid Adam D. , Wrenn Emma D. , Cheung Kevin
Published: May 2021

Invasive breast cancer tends to metastasize to lymph nodes and systemic sites. The management of metastasis has evolved by focusing on controlling the growth of the disease in the breast/chest wall, and at metastatic sites, initially by surgery alone, then by a combination of surgery with radiation, and later by adding systemic treatments in the form of chemotherapy, hormone manipulation, targeted therapy, immunotherapy and other treatments aimed at inhibiting the proliferation of cancer cells. It would be valuable for us to know how breast cancer metastasizes; such knowledge would likely encourage the development of therapies that focus on mechanisms of metastasis and might even allow us to avoid toxic therapies that are currently used for this disease. For example, if we had a drug that targeted a gene that is critical for metastasis, we might even be able to cure a vast majority of patients with breast cancer. By bringing together scientists with expertise in molecular aspects of breast cancer metastasis, and those with expertise in the mechanical aspects of metastasis, this paper probes interesting aspects of the metastasis cascade, further enlightening us in our efforts to improve the outcome from breast cancer treatments.
Trends of nutrients and metals in precipitation in northern Germany: the role of emissions and meteorology
Authors: Lorenz Malte , Brunke Matthias
Published: May 2021

We analyzed the precipitation chemistry for a maritime region in northern Germany (Schleswig–Holstein) from 1997 to 2017 in order to reveal temporal and spatial patterns and to evaluate the role of meteorological factors relative to emission reductions in Germany and Europe. Therefore, we applied several statistical methods such as time series decomposition, principal component, and redundancy analysis. We extracted two main groups: (i) a marine group (Cl, Na, Mg) that was related to natural processes like sea spray input and (ii) an anthropogenic group (Pb, Cd, As, Zn, and nitrogen species) with a terrestrial subgroup (Fe, Al, Mn), which were both related to emissions. These groups were valid for the spatial, seasonal, and annual trend data. Other elements, like Ca, K, total P, and sulfate, were influenced by natural and anthropogenic processes. The seasonal variation of ammonium deposition was caused primarily by ammonia emissions and ancillary by precipitation. Most heavy metals as well as sulfate, nitrate, and ammonium showed decreasing trends in concentrations and deposition fluxes. Only Hg did not show any trend. The decreasing depositions of sulfate and total nitrogen were correlated to emission reductions in Germany. The deposition of most heavy metals was influenced by emission reductions on European scale and meteorological factors such as wind speed and humidity. Hg did not show any correlation with the emission time series in Europe. Instead, it was correlated to the NAO index and wind, implying that global emissions and transport pathways determine the temporal development of Hg depositions. Overall, the study reveals that emission reductions positively influence regional depositions for most investigated substances. The regional spatial patterns of depositions were also influenced by local meteorological factors.
Planning of Measurement Series for Thermodynamic Properties Based on Optimal Experimental Design
Authors: Frotscher Ophelia , Herzog Roland , Richter Markus
Published: May 2021

Decreasing the time required for accurate thermodynamic property measurements is extremely desirable for model development that can respond to the needs of science and industry within a short time frame. Here, we demonstrate the application of optimal experimental design to measurements of thermodynamic properties. The technique is explored using the fitting of a Schilling-type equation from published $$(p, \rho , T)$$

(
p
,
ρ
,
T
)

-measurements of ethylene glycol and propylene glycol. The analysis shows that a fixed-exponent fit using (p, T)-measurements along the five most informative isotherms produces models of relative density errors comparable to those obtained using the data along all investigated isotherms, i.e., eight or nine. It is also argued that a calculation of optimal isotherms prior to the measurement series can further increase the precision at no additional experimental effort.
Improvement of Surface Quality and Process Area Rate in Selective Laser Melting by Beam Oscillation Scan Technique
Authors: Islam Nabirul , Schanz Jochen , Kolb David , Riegel Harald
Published: May 2021

Selective laser melting (SLM) has potential benefits for additive manufacturing of complex and precise metal parts with required mechanical and material properties. However, the improvement of surface quality and the minimization of fabrication time still remark a challenge for efficient manufacturing by SLM. Among the process parameters, the scan strategy has a significant influence on process stability and quality of the final manufactured three-dimensional products. This paper demonstrates the investigation of an alternative scan strategy to improve the surface quality with a reduction of fabrication time and laser energy input. Hereby, the scan strategy is performed by a conventional linear and oscillating laser beam movement in a self-developed SLM process chamber. Comparative analysis of the manufactured specimens regarding surface quality and density was performed. The investigations in oscillating laser beam movement show a decrease in the average variation of surface profile up to 50% relative to the experimented conventional linear scan technique. Due to an increased melt pool during the oscillation beam movement, the hatch distance was increased. As a result, the applied laser energy input was reduced by more than 28%, and the area rate was raised up to 50% compared to the conventional linear laser beam movement.
Myocardial Strain Imaging in Resistant Hypertension
Authors: Alsharari Reem , Oxborough David , Lip Gregory Y. H. , Shantsila Alena
Published: May 2021

Purpose of Review

Resistant hypertension (RH) is a major contributor to cardiovascular diseases and is associated with increased all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. Cardiac changes such as impaired left ventricular (LV) function, left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), myocardial fibrosis, and enlarged left atrium (LA) are consequences of chronic exposure to an elevated blood pressure. The purpose of this review article is to demonstrate the potential benefits of using STE as a non-invasive imaging technique in the assessment of cardiac remodeling in patients with hypertension and specifically in uncontrolled and RH population.

Recent Findings

It is well-recognized that conventional transthoracic echocardiography is a useful analytic imaging modality to evaluate hypertension-mediated organ damage (HMOD) and in a resistant hypertensive population. More recently two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) has been utilized to provide further risk assessment to this population.

Recent data has shown that STE is a new promising echocardiographic marker to evaluate early stage LV dysfunction and myocardial fibrosis over conventional 2D parameters in patients with cardiovascular diseases.
Machine Learning Applications in Heart Failure Disease Management: Hype or Hope?
Authors: Greenberg Barry , Brann Alison , Campagnari Claudio , Adler Eric , Yagil Avi
Published: May 2021

Purpose of the review

Machine learning (ML) approaches have emerged as powerful tools in medicine. This review focuses on the use ML to assess risk of events in patients with heart failure (HF). It provides an overview of the ML process, challenges in developing risk scores, and strategies to mitigate problems.

Recent findings

Risk scores developed using standard statistical methods have limited accuracy, particularly when they are applied to populations other than the one in which they were developed. Computerized ML algorithms which identify correlations between descriptive variables in complex, non-linear, multi-dimensional systems provide an alternative approach to predicting risk of events. The MARKER-HF mortality risk score was developed using data from the electronic health record of HF patients followed at a large academic medical center. The risk score, which uses eight commonly available variables, proved to be highly accurate in predicting mortality across the spectrum of risk. It retained accuracy in independent populations and was superior to other risk scores.

Machine learning approaches can be used to develop risk scores that are superior to ones based on standard statistical methods. Careful attention to detail in curating data, selecting covariates, and trouble-shooting the process is required to optimize results.
The contribution of field independence in virtual spatial updating
Authors: Nori Raffaella , Boccia Maddalena , Palmiero Massimiliano , Piccardi Laura
Published: May 2021

Field independence (FI) is the extent to which a person perceives part of a field as discrete from the surrounding field rather than embedded in the field. Several studies proposed that it represents a cognitive style that is a relatively stable individuals’ predisposition towards information processing. This study investigated the effects of Field Independence/Field Dependence (FI/FD) cognitive style on topographic memory in a virtual environment. Seventy-nine college students completed the Embedded Figure Test as a measure of FI/FD cognitive style and learned two paths in the VR-Walking Corsi Test apparatus. After the learning phase, participants had to reproduce the paths from a familiar perspective or unfamiliar perspectives. Data showed that FI cognitive style predicted the ability to reproduce a path from unfamiliar perspectives, suggesting a different impact of the angle degree. Results are discussed considering the facilitation of body axes references and the increasing difficulty due to maintaining online perspectives with higher angle degrees that increase the visuo-spatial working memory cognitive load. These results support the idea that FI predicts human navigation.
Sleep quality according to the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index in over 7000 pregnant women in Poland
Authors: Smyka Magdalena , Kosińska-Kaczyńska Katarzyna , Sochacki-Wójcicka Nicole , Zgliczyńska Magdalena , Wielgoś Mirosław
Published: May 2021

The aim was to assess sleep quality in pregnant women, characterize sleep patterns in each trimester and to establish independent risk factors of poor sleep quality during gestation. A cross-sectional survey was conducted. The questionnaire included questions regarding sociodemographic data, information on the current pregnancy, sleep patterns and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. 7202 respondents fulfilled the survey completely and only those were included. A total of 95.1% of the respondents in the first trimester, 93% in the second trimester and 94.8% in the third trimester had poor sleep quality. Significantly more women with poor sleep quality assessed their socioeconomic status as bad or sufficient (15.7 vs 8.8%;p < 0.001), stress level as higher (mean 4.7 points vs 3.9 points;p < 0.001), had lower relationship rating (mean 8.8 points vs 9.3 points;p < 0.001) or suffered from depression and anxiety disorders. Logistic regression revealed pregnancy ailments to be the strongest independent risk factors of poor sleep quality during gestation. Sleep disorders are common among pregnant women in Poland and increase significantly as the pregnancy progresses. Developing and introducing a simple and easily available screening tool to assess sleep quality in common practice might improve the quality of the health care of pregnant women.
Moralischer Konstitutivismus und die Ethik grundlegender Güter
Authors: Horn Christoph
Published: May 2021

In this article, I defend a version of moral constitutivism that is based on a theory of goods. It is inspired by ancient philosophy both in claiming that action theory should be formulated in teleological terms (not as a causalism) and in the idea that a sound theory of goods should be a eudaemonist one. Additionally I argue that morality can be understood on the basis of such an approach.
Functionalized Halloysite Nanotubes for Enhanced Removal of Hg2+ Ions From Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Cataldo Salvatore , Crea Francesco , Massaro Marina , Milea Demetrio , Pettignano Alberto , Riela Serena
Published: May 2021

Water is essential for humans, animals, and plants; pollutants, usually derived from anthropogenic activities, can have a serious effect on its quality. Heavy metals are significant pollutants and are often highly toxic to living organisms, even at very low concentrations. Among the numerous removal techniques proposed, adsorption onto suitable adsorbent materials is considered to be one of the most promising. The objective of the current study was to determine the effectiveness of halloysite nanotubes (HNT) functionalized with organic amino or thiol groups as adsorbent materials to decontaminate polluted waters, using the removal of Hg2+ ions, one of the most dangerous heavy metals, as the test case. The effects of pH, ionic strength (I), and temperature of the metal ion solution on the adsorption ability and affinity of both materials were evaluated. To this end, adsorption experiments were carried out with no ionic medium and in NaNO3 and NaCl at I = 0.1 mol L−1, in the pH range 3–5 and in the temperature range 283.15–313.15 K. Kinetic and thermodynamic aspects of adsorption were considered by measuring the metal ion concentrations in aqueous solution. Various equations were used to fit experimental data, and the results obtained were explained on the basis of both the adsorbent’s characterization and the Hg2+ speciation under the given experimental conditions. Thiol and amino groups enhanced the adsorption capability of halloysite for Hg2+ ions in the pH range 3–5. The pH, the ionic medium, and the ionic strength of aqueous solution all play an important role in the adsorption process. A physical adsorption mechanism enhanced by ion exchange is proposed for both functionalized materials.
Non-Emerging Adulthood
Authors: Dulberger Dan , Omer Haim
Published: May 2021

This book offers a therapeutic approach to a problem that many families and mental health institutions face: a growing number of adult children who struggle to progress to a psychological, social adulthood. The family patterns that revolve around adult children can remain inert for decades, are often resistant to conventional therapy, and can cause chronic suffering to adult children, parents, and extended families. The authors present a guide that addresses parents of adult children as suffering people in their own right and as essential to assisting their child into entering functional adulthood. The authors, one of whom is the originator of the Non-Violent Resistance Therapy approach (NVR), provide an intervention manual that implements NVR principles for helping families of adult children. The book is based on the authors' ten-year journey of helping such families in cases where traditional interventions and therapeutic values seem not to work.
Non-Violent Resistance
Authors: Omer Haim
Published: May 2021

Non-violent resistance (NVR) is an approach for parents and other caregivers that helps to increase presence and overcome impulsive and dangerous behaviors, while reducing conflict and escalation. The practical, evidence-based advice accompanies a detailed list of all the new applications of NVR and an overview of the supporting literature. A step-by-step presentation of the treatment is laid out alongside a useful model on escalation and its prevention. The approach achieves high parent engagement and cooperation, with over twenty controlled studies showing that NVR effectively reduces parental helplessness, parental impulsiveness, parent–child conflicts, and family discord.
Unpiloted Aerial Vehicle Acquired Lidar for Mapping Monumental Architecture
Authors: McCoy Mark D. , Casana Jesse , Hill Austin Chad , Laugier Elise Jakoby , Mulrooney Mara A. , Ladefoged Thegn N.
Published: May 2021

As lidar becomes a regular part of surveying, ground-based platforms (handheld, mobile, and terrestrial lidar) and airborne platforms (piloted aircraft) are being joined by unpiloted aerial vehicle (UAV)–acquired lidar. We present a method for leveraging UAV-acquired lidar data with data collected using different lidar platforms (terrestrial and piloted aircraft), at a range of resolutions (1 to +1,000 points per m2) and geographic scales. We use these instruments to document a dry-masonry stone wall enclosing a religious precinct within the royal center at Kealakekua, Kona District, Hawai'i Island. Prior to European contact in AD 1779, Kealakekua was the center of the island-wide polity during the annual Makahiki festival. Results of this study suggest that when the wall was constructed around AD 1640, it was the largest structure ever built on the island of Hawai'i as well as a strong material expression of the power of state religion and the Makahiki rituals.
Why a Right to an Explanation of Algorithmic Decision-Making Should Exist: A Trust-Based Approach
Authors: Kim Tae Wan , Routledge Bryan R.
Published: May 2021

Businesses increasingly rely on algorithms that are data-trained sets of decision rules (i.e., the output of the processes often called “machine learning”) and implement decisions with little or no human intermediation. In this article, we provide a philosophical foundation for the claim that algorithmic decision-making gives rise to a “right to explanation.” It is often said that, in the digital era, informed consent is dead. This negative view originates from a rigid understanding that presumes informed consent is a static and complete transaction. Such a view is insufficient, especially when data are used in a secondary, noncontextual, and unpredictable manner—which is the inescapable nature of advanced artificial intelligence systems. We submit that an alternative view of informed consent—as an assurance of trust for incomplete transactions—allows for an understanding of why the rationale of informed consent already entails a right to ex post explanation.
Guillain Barre Syndrome as a Complication of COVID-19: A Systematic Review
Authors: Aladawi Mohammad , Elfil Mohamed , Abu-Esheh Baha , Abu Jazar Deaa , Armouti Ahmad , Bayoumi Ahmed , Piccione Ezequiel
Published: May 2021

Background:

In January 2020, the first case of Guillain Barre syndrome (GBS) due to COVID-19 was documented in China. GBS is known to be postinfectious following several types of infections. Although causality can only be proven through large epidemiological studies, we intended to study this association by a thorough review of the literature.

Methods:

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and Google scholar and included all papers with English or Spanish full text and original data of patients with GBS and recent COVID infection. Variables of interest were demographics, diagnostic investigations, and the latency between arboviral and neurological symptoms. Further variables were pooled to identify GBS clinical and electrophysiological variants, used treatments, and outcomes. The certainty of GBS diagnosis was verified using Brighton criteria.

Results:

We identified a total of 109 GBS cases. Ninety-nine cases had confirmed COVID-19 infection with an average age of 56.07 years. The average latency period between the arboviral symptoms and neurologic manifestations for confirmed COVID-19 cases was 12.2 d. The predominant GBS clinical and electromyography variants were the classical sensorimotor GBS and acute demyelinating polyneuropathy respectively. Forty cases required intensive care, 33 cases required mechanical ventilation, and 6 cases were complicated by death.

Conclusions:

Studies on COVID-19-related GBS commonly reported sensorimotor demyelinating GBS with frequent facial palsy. The time between the onset of infectious and neurological symptoms suggests a postinfectious mechanism. Early diagnosis of GBS in COVID-19 patients is important as it might be associated with a severe disease course requiring intensive care and mechanical ventilation.
Prevalence and Characteristics of Earthquake-Related Head Injuries: A Systematic Review
Authors: Igarashi Yutaka , Matsumoto Narumi , Kubo Tatsuhiko , Yamaguchi Masahiro , Nakae Ryuta , Onda Hidetaka , Yokobori Shoji , Koido Yuichi , Yokota Hiroyuki
Published: May 2021

Objective:

We conducted a systematic review to determine the prevalence and characteristics of earthquake-associated head injuries for better disaster preparedness and management.

Methods:

We searched for all publications related to head injuries and earthquakes from 1985 to 2018 in MEDLINE and other major databases. A search was conducted using “earthquakes,” “wounds and injuries,” and “cranio-cerebral trauma” as a medical subject headings.

Results:

Included in the analysis were 34 articles. With regard to the commonly occurring injuries, earthquake-related head injury ranks third among patients with earthquake-related injuries. The most common trauma is lower extremity (36.2%) followed by upper extremity (19.9%), head (16.6%), spine (13.1%), chest (11.3%), and abdomen (3.8%). The most common earthquake-related head injury was laceration or contusion (59.1%), while epidural hematoma was the most common among inpatients with intracranial hemorrhage (9.5%) followed by intracerebral hematoma (7.0%), and subdural hematoma (6.8%). Mortality rate was 5.6%.

Conclusion:

Head injuries were found to be a commonly occurring trauma along with extremity injuries. This knowledge is important for determining the demands for neurosurgery and for adequately managing patients, especially in resource-limited conditions.
Multi-level Administration, Inspections and Fundamental Rights: Is Judicial Protection Full and Effective?
Authors: De Bellis Maurizia
Published: May 2021

In the last decades, an increasing number of EU institutions and agencies have been given the power to conduct administrative inspections. While the legal literature has traditionally focused on the Commission’s inspection powers in competition proceedings, the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF), the European Central Bank (ECB), the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), and the European Fisheries Control Agency (EFCA) are also entrusted with such powers. The Commission has also been granted inspection powers in the field of Food Safety. Inspection powers can have a crucial impact on the fundamental right of the inviolability of the home, recognized by the Court of Justice as a general principle of EU law, and protected under Article 8 of the European Convention of Human Rights (ECHR) and Article 7 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights (ECFR). This Article argues that the current remedies do not fulfill all the criteria set forth by the Strasbourg Court for ex post judicial control vis-à vis inspections to be full and effective, in particular when these powers are used in the context of composite procedures, and suggests remedies to improve the system of review, in order to effectively protect fundamental rights.