bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The historical development of juvenile mortality and adult longevity in zoo‐kept carnivores
Authors: Roller Marco , Müller Dennis W. H. , Bertelsen Mads F. , Bingaman Lackey Laurie , Hatt Jean‐Michel , Clauss Marcus
Published: July 2021

Zoos need to evaluate their aim of high husbandry standards. One way of approaching this is to use the demographic data that has been collected by participating zoos for decades, assessing historical change over time to identify the presence or absence of progress. Using the example of carnivores, with data covering seven decades (1950–2019), 13 carnivore families, and 95 species, we show that juvenile mortality has decreased, and adult longevity increased, over this interval. While no reason for complacency, the results indicate that the commitment of zoos to continuously improve is having measurable consequences.
Digital Form Finding Using Voronoi Pattern
Authors: Capone Mara , Lanzara Emanuela , Portioli Francesco Paolo Antonio , Flore Francesco
Published: July 2021

Starting from funicular models, chain models and hanging membranes, the role of 3D physical models in optimized shape research is the basis of form-finding strategies. Advances in structural optimized shape design derive from the wide spread of special digital form-finding tools. The goal of this paper is to test and evaluate interdisciplinary approaches based on computational tools useful in the form finding of efficient structural systems. This work is aimed at designing an inverse hanging shape subdivided into polygonal voussoirs (Voronoi patterns) by relaxing a planar discrete and elastic system, loaded at each point and anchored along its boundary. The workflow involves shaping, discretization (from pre-shaped paneling to digital stereotomy) and structural analysis carried out using two modeling approaches, finite element and rigid block modeling, using an in-house software tool, LiABlock_3D (MATLAB®), to check the stress state and to evaluate the equilibrium stability of the final shell.
Translating Movement into Architectural Form
Authors: Ingleby Tim , Orlando Stephen
Published: July 2021

This work seeks to define original ways of creating architectonic forms using kinesiology studies. A series of methodologies are devised to record subjects in motion, with analogue and digital modelling techniques rigorously used independently and in combination to transpose these into sculptural figures with differing levels of formal fidelity and dimensional precision. Surface structures, and in particular thin shells, are found to have great potential for moving from abstract figures to structural forms. Such structures are traditionally problematic in terms of ‘constructional energy’, which has limited their usefulness and application. In response, the ‘hanging cloth reversed’ modelling technique devised by Heinz Isler is investigated to capitalise on the ambiguity between large-scale models and small structures. A construction method is devised that accords with the principles of structural art which, significantly, suggests that (small-span) shell structures could be liberated from the strictures of formwork to create economic, efficient and elegant minimal structures.
On the q-Monotonicity Preservation of Durrmeyer-Type Operators
Authors: Abel Ulrich , Leviatan Dany , Raşa Ioan
Published: July 2021

We prove that various Durrmeyer-type operators preserveq-monotonicity in [0, 1] or$$[0,\infty )$$[0,∞)as the case may be. Recall that a 1-monotone function is nondecreasing, a 2-monotone one is convex, and for$$q>2$$q>2, aq-monotone function possesses a convex$$(q-2)$$(q-2)nd derivative in the interior of the interval. The operators are the Durrmeyer versions of Bernstein (including genuine Bernstein–Durrmeyer), Szász and Baskakov operators. As a byproduct we have a new type of characterization of continuousq-monotone functions by the behavior of the integrals of the function with respect to measures that are related to the fundamental polynomials of the operators.
The pre-metastatic niche in lymph nodes: formation and characteristics
Authors: Gillot Lionel , Baudin Louis , Rouaud Loïc , Kridelka Frédéric , Noël Agnès
Published: July 2021

Lymph node metastasis is a crucial prognostic parameter in many different types of cancers and a gateway for further dissemination to distant organs. Prior to metastatic dissemination, the primary tumor prepares for the remodeling of the draining (sentinel) lymph node by secreting soluble factors or releasing extracellular vesicles that are transported by lymphatic vessels. These important changes occur before the appearance of the first metastatic cell and create what is known as a pre-metastatic niche giving rise to the subsequent survival and growth of metastatic cells. In this review, the lymph node structure, matrix composition and the emerging heterogeneity of cells forming it are described. Current knowledge of the major cellular and molecular processes associated with nodal pre-metastatic niche formation, including lymphangiogenesis, extracellular matrix remodeling, and immunosuppressive cell enlisting in lymph nodes are additionally summarized. Finally, future directions that research could possibly take and the clinical impact are discussed.
The use of antibiotic-loaded bone cement does not increase antibiotic resistance after primary total joint arthroplasty
Authors: Tootsi Kaspar , Heesen Victoria , Lohrengel Martin , Enz Andreas Eugen , Illiger Sebastian , Mittelmeier Wolfram , Lohmann Christoph H.
Published: July 2021

Purpose

One of the preventive strategies for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is the use of antibiotic-loaded bone cement (ALBC) in primary total joint arthroplasty (TJA). Even though it is widely used, there are concerns about the development of antibacterial resistance. The aim of the study was to investigate whether using ALBC in primary TJA increases the antibiotic-resistant PJI. The hypothesis was that the regular use of ALBC does not increase the rate of resistant PJI.

Methods

Patients with confirmed PJI who had revision surgery from year 2010 to 2019 were included in this international multicenter study. The ALBC group was compared to the non-ALBC TJA group from the same time period. Medical records were used to collect clinical (age, gender, body mass index, comorbidities), TJA-related (type of operation, implant type and survival) and PJI-related (cultured microorganism, antibiogram) data. Resistance to gentamicin, clindamycin and vancomycin were recorded from the antibiograms. Multiple logistic regression model was used to identify risk factors and account for the potential confounders.

Results

218 patients with PJI were included in the study: 142 with gentamicin-loaded bone cement and 76 in the non-ALBC group. The average age in the ALBC group was 71 ± 10 years and 62 ± 12 years in the comparison group (p < 0.001). Coagulase negative Staphylococci (CONS) were the most common (49%) isolated pathogens. The use of ALBC did not increase the rate of any resistant bacteria significantly (OR = 0.79 (0.42–1.48), p = 0.469). The presence of CONS was associated with higher risk of antibiotic resistance.

Conclusions

The current study demonstrates no increase in antibiotic resistance due to ALBC after primary TJA. Thus, the use of ALBC during primary TJA should not be feared in the context of antimicrobial resistance.

Level of evidence

III.
Nonlinear models of the Phillips curve
Authors: Cristini Annalisa , Ferri Piero
Published: July 2021

The recent flattening of the Phillips curve has stimulated new empirical research and theoretical discussions regarding the nonlinear nature of the changes in the parameters. The objective of the present paper is twofold: to detect the relevant type of the implied nonlinearity and look for some general model capable of generating a Phillips curve mimicking the empirical one. We find evidence of a convex US price Phillips curve, from 1961 q1 to 2019 q4, assessed both by piecewise and threshold models. The result presents some degree of novelty regarding the role of supply shocks and model-specific convexities; in addition, it supports the use of a regime-switching macro system. The latter accomplishes three tasks. It can generate a Phillips curve resembling its empirical counterparts; it creates a medium-run endogenous cycle where unemployment is not a NAIRU; finally, it opens new perspectives on economic policy issues.
Large Steklov eigenvalues via homogenisation on manifolds
Authors: Girouard Alexandre , Lagacé Jean
Published: July 2021

Using methods in the spirit of deterministic homogenisation theory we obtain convergence of the Steklov eigenvalues of a sequence of domains in a Riemannian manifold to weighted Laplace eigenvalues of that manifold. The domains are obtained by removing small geodesic balls that are asymptotically densely uniformly distributed as their radius tends to zero. We use this relationship to construct manifolds that have large Steklov eigenvalues. In dimension two, and with constant weight equal to 1, we prove that Kokarev’s upper bound of $$8\pi $$

8
π

for the first nonzero normalised Steklov eigenvalue on orientable surfaces of genus 0 is saturated. For other topological types and eigenvalue indices, we also obtain lower bounds on the best upper bound for the eigenvalue in terms of Laplace maximisers. For the first two eigenvalues, these lower bounds become equalities. A surprising consequence is the existence of free boundary minimal surfaces immersed in the unit ball by first Steklov eigenfunctions and with area strictly larger than $$2\pi $$

2
π

. This was previously thought to be impossible. We provide numerical evidence that some of the already known examples of free boundary minimal surfaces have these properties and also exhibit simulations of new free boundary minimal surfaces of genus zero in the unit ball with even larger area. We prove that the first nonzero Steklov eigenvalue of all these examples is equal to 1, as a consequence of their symmetries and topology, so that they are consistent with a general conjecture by Fraser and Li. In dimension three and larger, we prove that the isoperimetric inequality of Colbois–El Soufi–Girouard is sharp and implies an upper bound for weighted Laplace eigenvalues. We also show that in any manifold with a fixed metric, one can construct by varying the weight a domain with connected boundary whose first nonzero normalised Steklov eigenvalue is arbitrarily large.
Post-COVID‑19-Arthritis. Manifestation unter dem klinischen Bild einer reaktiven Arthritis
Authors: Zeidler H.
Published: July 2021

Es werden 13 Fallberichte einer reaktiven Arthritis im Zusammenhang mit einer Coronavirus-Krankheit-2019 (COVID‑19) referiert. Männer sind häufiger betroffen als Frauen. Die Arthritis manifestiert sich 4 bis 44 Tage nach der Infektion bzw. dem Auftreten der COVID‑19-Symptome. Die akute Arthritis ist monoartikulär oder oligoartikulär. Nur einer von 7 untersuchten Patienten war Humanes-Leukozyten-Antigen(HLA)-B27-positiv. Eine direkte virale Infektion des Gelenkes mit „severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2“ (SARS-CoV‑2) wurde in der Synovialflüssigkeit nicht nachgewiesen und in der Synovialis nicht untersucht. Die Arthritis wurde mit nichtsteroidalen Antirheumatika und/oder intraartikulären oder systemischen Kortikosteroiden erfolgreich behandelt. Die Pathogenese der post-COVID‑19-reaktiven Arthritis ist ungeklärt.
Mapping TASEP back in time
Authors: Petrov Leonid , Saenz Axel
Published: July 2021

We obtain a new relation between the distributions$$\upmu _t$$μtat different times$$t\ge 0$$t≥0of the continuous-time totally asymmetric simple exclusion process (TASEP) started from the step initial configuration. Namely, we present a continuous-time Markov process with local interactions and particle-dependent rates which maps the TASEP distributions$$\upmu _t$$μtbackwards in time. Under the backwards process, particles jump to the left, and the dynamics can be viewed as a version of the discrete-space Hammersley process. Combined with the forward TASEP evolution, this leads to a stationary Markov dynamics preserving$$\upmu _t$$μtwhich in turn brings new identities for expectations with respect to$$\upmu _t$$μt. The construction of the backwards dynamics is based on Markov maps interchanging parameters of Schur processes, and is motivated by bijectivizations of the Yang–Baxter equation. We also present a number of corollaries, extensions, and open questions arising from our constructions.
Cartilage from human-induced pluripotent stem cells: comparison with neo-cartilage from chondrocytes and bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells
Authors: Rodríguez Ruiz Alejandro , Dicks Amanda , Tuerlings Margo , Schepers Koen , van Pel Melissa , Nelissen Rob G. H. H. , Freund Christian , Mummery Christine L. , Orlova Valeria , Guilak Farshid , Meulenbelt Ingrid , Ramos Yolande F. M.
Published: July 2021

Cartilage has little intrinsic capacity for repair, so transplantation of exogenous cartilage cells is considered a realistic option for cartilage regeneration. We explored whether human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) could represent such unlimited cell sources for neo-cartilage comparable to human primary articular chondrocytes (hPACs) or human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (hBMSCs). For this, chondroprogenitor cells (hiCPCs) and hiPSC-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (hiMSCs) were generated from two independent hiPSC lines and characterized by morphology, flow cytometry, and differentiation potential. Chondrogenesis was compared to hBMSCs and hPACs by histology, immunohistochemistry, and RT-qPCR, while similarities were estimated based on Pearson correlations using a panel of 20 relevant genes. Our data show successful differentiations of hiPSC into hiMSCs and hiCPCs. Characteristic hBMSC markers were shared between hBMSCs and hiMSCs, with the exception of CD146 and CD45. However, neo-cartilage generated from hiMSCs showed low resemblances when compared to hBMSCs (53%) and hPACs (39%) characterized by lower collagen type 2 and higher collagen type 1 expression. Contrarily, hiCPC neo-cartilage generated neo-cartilage more similar to hPACs (65%), with stronger expression of matrix deposition markers. Our study shows that taking a stepwise approach to generate neo-cartilage from hiPSCs via chondroprogenitor cells results in strong similarities to neo-cartilage of hPACs within 3 weeks following chondrogenesis, making them a potential candidate for regenerative therapies. Contrarily, neo-cartilage deposited by hiMSCs seems more prone to hypertrophic characteristics compared to hPACs. We therefore compared chondrocytes derived from hiMSCs and hiCPCs with hPACs and hBMSCs to outline similarities and differences between their neo-cartilage and establish their potential suitability for regenerative medicine and disease modelling.
Within-species relationship of patchiness to both abundance and occupancy, as exemplified by seagrass macrobenthos
Authors: Barnes R. S. K.
Published: July 2021

For the first time, intraspecific relationships between the macroecological metrics patchiness (P) and both abundance (A) and occupancy (O) were investigated in a faunal assemblage. As a companion study to recent work on interspecific P, A and O patterns at the same localities, intraspecific patterns were documented within each of the more dominant invertebrates forming the seagrass macrobenthos of warm–temperate Knysna estuarine bay (South Africa) and of sub-tropical Moreton Bay (Australia). As displayed interspecifically, individual species showed strong A–O patterns (mean scaling coefficient − 0.76 and mean R2 > 0.8). All P–O relations were negative and most (67%) were statistically significant, although weaker (mean R2 0.5) than A–O ones; most P–A ones were also negative but fewer (43%) achieved significance, and were even weaker (mean R2 0.4); 33% of species showed no significant interrelations of either O or A with P. No species showed only a significant P–A relationship. Compared with interspecific P–A–O data from the same assemblages, power–law scaling exponents were equivalent, but R2 values were larger. Larviparous species comprised 70% of the total studied, but 94% of those displaying significant patchiness interrelationships; 5 of the 9 showing no P–A or P–O relationships, however, were also larviparous. At Knysna, though not in Moreton Bay, larviparous species also showed higher levels of occupancy than non-larviparous ones, whilst non-larviparous species showed higher levels of patchiness. Dominant Moreton Bay species, but not those at Knysna, exhibited homogeneously sloped P–O relationships.
Improved distributed $$\Delta $$-coloring
Authors: Ghaffari Mohsen , Hirvonen Juho , Kuhn Fabian , Maus Yannic
Published: July 2021

We present a randomized distributed algorithm that computes a $$\Delta $$
Δ
-coloring in any non-complete graph with maximum degree $$\Delta \ge 4$$

Δ
≥
4

in $$O(\log \Delta ) + 2^{O(\sqrt{\log \log n})}$$

O

(
log
Δ
)

+

2

O
(

log
log
n

)

rounds, as well as a randomized algorithm that computes a $$\Delta $$
Δ
-coloring in $$O((\log \log n)^2)$$

O
(

(
log
log
n
)

2

)

rounds when $$\Delta \in [3, O(1)]$$

Δ
∈
[
3
,
O
(
1
)
]

. Both these algorithms improve on an $$O(\log ^3 n / \log \Delta )$$

O
(

log
3

n
/
log
Δ
)

-round algorithm of Panconesi and Srinivasan (STOC’93), which has remained the state of the art for the past 25 years. Moreover, the latter algorithm gets (exponentially) closer to an $$\Omega (\log \log n)$$

Ω
(
log
log
n
)

round lower bound of Brandt et al. (STOC’16).
Symptom clusters and their influence on prognosis using EORTC QLQ-C15-PAL scores in terminally ill patients with cancer
Authors: Koyama Nanako , Matsumura Chikako , Tahara Yuuna , Sako Morito , Kurosawa Hideo , Nomura Takehisa , Eguchi Yuki , Ohba Kazuki , Yano Yoshitaka
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The aims of the present study were to investigate the symptom clusters in terminally ill patients with cancer using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 15 Palliative Care (EORTC QLQ-C15-PAL), and to examine whether these symptom clusters influenced prognosis.

Methods

We analyzed data from 130 cancer patients hospitalized in the palliative care unit from June 2018 to December 2019 in an observational study. Principal component analysis was used to detect symptom clusters using the scored date of 14 items in the QLQ-C15-PAL, except for overall QOL, at the time of hospitalization. The influence of the existence of these symptom clusters and Palliative Performance Scale (PPS) on survival was analyzed by Cox proportional hazards regression analysis, and survival curves were compared between the groups with or without existing corresponding symptom clusters using the log-rank test.

Results

The following symptom clusters were identified: cluster 1 (pain, insomnia, emotional functioning), cluster 2 (dyspnea, appetite loss, fatigue, and nausea), and cluster 3 (physical functioning). Cronbach’s alpha values for the symptom clusters ranged from 0.72 to 0.82. An increased risk of death was significantly associated with the existence of cluster 2 and poor PPS (log-rank test, p = 0.016 and p < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusion

In terminally ill patients with cancer, three symptom clusters were detected based on QLQ-C15-PAL scores. Poor PPS and the presence of symptom cluster that includes dyspnea, appetite loss, fatigue, and nausea indicated poor prognosis.
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in the treatment of resistant depression: changes of specific neurotransmitter precursor amino acids
Authors: Leblhuber F. , Geisler S. , Ehrlich D. , Steiner K. , Reibnegger G. , Fuchs Dietmar , Kurz K.
Published: July 2021

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) for treatment-resistant major depression offers an alternative therapy, since more than every third patient is not responding to adequate antidepressive treatment. In this interventional study safety, symptom development and changes of serum concentrations of neurotransmitter precursor amino acids, of immune activation and inflammation markers, of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), nitrite as well as of salivary amylase were measured before and after a frontal polar cortex stimulation using rTMS as add-on treatment in 38 patients with treatment-resistant depression. Out of these, 17 patients received sham stimulation as a control. Treatment was well tolerated: with the exception of one patient of the verum group, who described discomfort during the second treatment, no serious adverse effects were observed. Improvement of depression with a significant decrease in the HAMD-7 scale (p = 0.001) was found in patients treated with rTMS, but not in sham-treated patients. Furthermore, serum phenylalanine and tyrosine dropped significantly (p = 0.03 and p = 0.027, respectively) in rTMS-treated patients. The kynurenine to tryptophan ratio (Kyn/Trp) tended to decrease under rTMS (p = 0.07). In addition, associations between concentrations of BDNF and neopterin as well as serum nitrite levels were found in patients after rTMS treatment, which indicates an influence of immune regulatory circuits on BDNF levels. In the sham-treated patients, no changes of biomarker concentrations were observed. Results show that rTMS is effective in the treatment of resistant depression. rTMS appears to influence the enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase, which plays a central role in the biosynthesis of neurotransmitter precursors tyrosine and dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA).
Restoration of 1325 teeth with partial-coverage crowns manufactured from high noble metal alloys: a retrospective case series 18.8 years after prosthetic delivery
Authors: Rehm Philipp , Derks Hermann , Lesaar Wilfried , Spies Benedikt Christopher , Beuer Florian , Böse Mats Wernfried Heinrich
Published: July 2021

Objectives

To evaluate long-term survival and success rates of conventionally cemented partial-coverage crowns (PCCs) manufactured from high noble metal alloys (hn).

Material and methods

Restoration-, periodontal- and tooth-related criteria on patients, restored with a single or multiple conventionally cemented hnPCCs in a private dental office were collected from existing patient records. With regard to semi-annual follow-ups, data of the most recent clinical evaluations were considered. Kaplan–Meier and log-rank tests were used for statistical analyses. Level of significance was set at p ≤ .05.

Results

Between 09/1983 and 09/2009, 1325 hnPCCs were conventionally cemented on 1325 teeth in 266 patients (mean age: 44.5 ± 10.7 years). Due to various reasons, 81 hnPCCs showed complications, documenting a success rate of 93.9% after a mean observation period of 18.8 ± 5.7 years. Of these, additional 14 restorations were counted as survival, resulting in a survival rate of 94.9%. Most frequent complications were periodontal issues (n = 29, 35.8%). Significantly higher success rates were documented for hnPCCs of patients aged between 37 and 51 years (p = .012).

Conclusion

Partial-coverage crowns from high noble metal alloys showed excellent survival and success rates after a mean observation period of 18.8 ± 5.7 years. Higher patient age was one of the risk factors.

Clinical Relevance

According to the results of this study, hnPCCs still represent an excellent therapeutic option—even in modern dentistry.
Development of U-Net Breast Density Segmentation Method for Fat-Sat MR Images Using Transfer Learning Based on Non-Fat-Sat Model
Authors: Zhang Yang , Chan Siwa , Chen Jeon-Hor , Chang Kai-Ting , Lin Chin-Yao , Pan Huay-Ben , Lin Wei-Ching , Kwong Tiffany , Parajuli Ritesh , Mehta Rita S. , Chien Sou-Hsin , Su Min-Ying
Published: July 2021

To develop a U-net deep learning method for breast tissue segmentation on fat-sat T1-weighted (T1W) MRI using transfer learning (TL) from a model developed for non-fat-sat images. The training dataset (N = 126) was imaged on a 1.5 T MR scanner, and the independent testing dataset (N = 40) was imaged on a 3 T scanner, both using fat-sat T1W pulse sequence. Pre-contrast images acquired in the dynamic-contrast-enhanced (DCE) MRI sequence were used for analysis. All patients had unilateral cancer, and the segmentation was performed using the contralateral normal breast. The ground truth of breast and fibroglandular tissue (FGT) segmentation was generated using a template-based segmentation method with a clustering algorithm. The deep learning segmentation was performed using U-net models trained with and without TL, by using initial values of trainable parameters taken from the previous model for non-fat-sat images. The ground truth of each case was used to evaluate the segmentation performance of the U-net models by calculating the dice similarity coefficient (DSC) and the overall accuracy based on all pixels. Pearson’s correlation was used to evaluate the correlation of breast volume and FGT volume between the U-net prediction output and the ground truth. In the training dataset, the evaluation was performed using tenfold cross-validation, and the mean DSC with and without TL was 0.97 vs. 0.95 for breast and 0.86 vs. 0.80 for FGT. When the final model developed with and without TL from the training dataset was applied to the testing dataset, the mean DSC was 0.89 vs. 0.83 for breast and 0.81 vs. 0.81 for FGT, respectively. Application of TL not only improved the DSC, but also decreased the required training case number. Lastly, there was a high correlation (R2 > 0.90) for both the training and testing datasets between the U-net prediction output and ground truth for breast volume and FGT volume. U-net can be applied to perform breast tissue segmentation on fat-sat images, and TL is an efficient strategy to develop a specific model for each different dataset.
Body weight trends in adolescents of Central Italy across 13 years: social, behavioural, and psychological correlates
Authors: Castellini Giovanni , D’Anna Giulio , Rossi Eleonora , Cassioli Emanuele , Voller Fabio , Silvestri Caterina , Lazzeretti Marco , Berti Alice , Innocenti Francesco , Ricca Valdo
Published: July 2021

Aim

The study aimed to determine trends in the prevalence of underweight, overweight, obesity and their putative risk factors in different cohorts from a representative population of adolescents in Central Italy.

Subject and methods

After random sampling, five cohorts of adolescents attending public high schools – aged 14 to 18 years – were evaluated from 2005 to 2018 (n: 25,174). Collected information included self-reported body mass index (BMI), descriptors of family environment, eating behaviour, physical activity, screen use, bullying victimisation, sexual behaviour (age at first intercourse, number of partners) and perceived psychological distress. For these data, between-cohort prevalence differences were used to esteem prevalence variations across time. In the 2018 cohort, the association between these factors and body weight was evaluated through multinomial regressions with sex-specific crude relative risk ratios for different BMI categories.

Results

An increased prevalence of overweight was observed for both boys and girls. The study outlined a transition towards higher parental education and unemployment, reduced soft drinks consumption and higher psychological distress. Sex-specific changes were observed for physical and sexual activity, and a rising percentage of girls reported being bullied and distressing family relationships. Parental education and employment, together with physical activity, confirmed to be protective factors against pathological weight. The latter clustered with reduced soft drinks consumption, bullying victimisation, early sexual activity, worse family relationships and higher distress.

Conclusion

An increased prevalence of both overweight and underweight was observed across time. Economic factors associated with unemployment and changes in behavioural patterns may have contributed to this trend.
The association between supportive social ties and autonomic nervous system function—differences between family ties and friendship ties in a cohort of older adults
Authors: Bosle Catherin , Brenner Hermann , Fischer Joachim E. , Jarczok Marc N. , Schöttker Ben , Perna Laura , Hoffmann Kristina , Herr Raphael M.
Published: July 2021

Supportive family and friendship ties can serve different functions and thus might show different associations with an individual’s health. Particularly, older adults might show varying health benefits of different types of supportive ties depending on their marital and retirement status. Our aim is to analyze relationships between different types of supportive social ties and autonomic nervous system (ANS) function, a physiological indicator of health that can help to establish the biological plausibility of the association—measured by heart rate variability (HRV). We present cross-sectional linear regression analyses of a German cohort of community-dwelling older adults (2008–2010;n = 1,548; mean age = 68.7 years). Our findings indicate that supportive friendship ties show significant positive associations (i.e., higher HRV) in individuals that are either not married or above retirement age. Supportive family ties show significant positive associations in individuals below retirement age. Significant results vanish or are reduced after accounting for behavioral/physical and psychological/cognitive indicators. We conclude that programs supporting the development or maintenance of friendship ties might be especially beneficial in unmarried older adults and adults above retirement age.
Developing Pretend Play in Autistic Children Using the Playboxes Joint Play Approach as Part of Ongoing Practice
Authors: Marwick Helen , Jarvie Karena , Cowie Hilary , Johnston Lorna , Hammond-Evans Nicola , Cockayne Rachael
Published: July 2021

A repeated measures single subject design was used to examine the effectiveness of a joint play approach embedded in professional practice, in supporting pretend play for autistic children. Seven autistic children, aged 5–8 years, with a placement within a specialist educational provision, and who demonstrated restricted play, participated in weekly sessions using the Playboxes approach over a period of 3 months. Pre- and post-approach pretend play abilities were assessed using the Symbolic Play Test and the Test of Pretend Play. Every child gained increased age-equivalent scores on the Test of Pretend Play, ranging from + 8 to + 30 months. Pretend Play abilities can support developmental outcomes and incorporation of this approach into regular practice could be of value for autistic children.
Entscheidungstendenzen als psychoemotionale Einflussfaktoren auf das selbsteingeschätzte unterrichtliche Planungsverhalten angehender Lehrkräfte
Authors: Küth Simon , Scholl Daniel , Schüle Christoph
Published: July 2021

Während viele Annahmen des Decision-Making-Paradigmas der 1970er- und 1980er-Jahre zu gedanklichen Prozessen bei der Unterrichtsplanung und ihren kognitiven Einflüssen inzwischen intensiv untersucht wurden, liegen beinahe keine Erkenntnisse der Unterrichtsplanungsforschung zu etwaigen psychoemotionalen Einflüssen vor. Deshalb werden im vorliegenden Beitrag Zusammenhänge zwischen Tendenzen im Entscheidungsverhalten und selbsteingeschätztem adaptiven unterrichtlichen Planungsverhalten als einer beispielhaften Facette der Unterrichtsplanung bei Novizinnen und Novizen exploriert. Hierzu wird in Studie 1 eine deutschsprachige Version des Melbourne-Decision-Making-Questionnaires faktoriell validiert und in Studie 2 der Einfluss dieser Tendenzen auf das selbsteingeschätzte Planungsverhalten untersucht. Die Befunde zeigen einen tendenziellen Einfluss der psychoemotionalen Faktoren des vigilanten und aufschiebenden Entscheidungsverhaltens auf das selbsteingeschätzte Planungsverhalten.
A Comparison of Two Novel Non-Ferrous Metal Recovery Equations: Development, Similarity and Industrial Significance
Authors: Grimsey E. J.
Published: July 2021

The recovery of non-ferrous metals in oxidative sulfide smelting and converting processes and within reductive oxide smelting processes has been previously analyzed using two similar equations which express recovery in terms of iron transfer and a distribution coefficient. A detailed comparison will show that the equations are mathematically identical but with one equation validated only for constant distribution coefficients. The wider applicability of the equation and implications for optimization of metal recovery are discussed.
Fuel poverty and low carbon emissions: a comparative study of the feasibility of the hybrid renewable energy systems incorporating combined heat and power technology
Authors: Rzetelska Dorota , Combrinck Madeleine
Published: July 2021

Fuel poverty is most prevalent in North East England with 14.4% of fuel poor households in Newcastle upon Tyne. The aim of this paper was to identify a grid connected renewable energy system coupled with natural gas reciprocating combined heat and power unit, that is cost-effective and technically feasible with a potential to generate a profit from selling energy excess to the grid to help alleviate fuel poverty. The system was also aimed at low carbon emissions. Fourteen models were designed and optimized with the aid of the HOMER Pro software. Models were compared with respect to their economic, technical, and environmental performance. A solution was proposed where restrictions were placed on the size of renewable energy components. This configuration consists of 150 kW CHP, 300 kW PV cells, and 30 kW wind turbines. The renewable fraction is 5.10% and the system yields a carbon saving of 7.9% in comparison with conventional systems. The initial capital investment is $1.24 million which enables the system to have grid sales of 582689 kWh/a. A conservative calculation determined that 40% of the sales can be used to reduce the energy cost of fuel poor households by $706 per annum. This solution has the potential to eliminate fuel poverty at the site analyzed.
Retinal microvascular parameters are not associated with diabetes in the Northern Ireland Cohort for the Longitudinal Study of Ageing
Authors: O’Neill Rachael Ann , Maxwell Alexander Peter , Kee Frank , Young Ian , McGuinness Bernadette , Hogg Ruth E. , Cruise Sharon , McKay Gareth J.
Published: July 2021

Background

The retinal microvasculature offers unique non-invasive evaluation of systemic microvascular abnormalities. Previous studies reported associations between retinal microvascular parameters (RMPs) and diabetes. The aim of this study was to assess associations between RMPs and diabetes in a cross-sectional analysis of older persons from the Northern Ireland Cohort for the Longitudinal Study of Ageing (NICOLA).

Methods

RMPs (central retinal arteriolar/venular equivalents, arteriolar to venular ratio, fractal dimension, and tortuosity) were measured from optic disc-centred fundus images using semi-automated software. Associations were assessed between RMPs and diabetes status with adjustment for potential confounders.

Results

Data were included for 1762 participants with 209 classified as having diabetes. Participants had a mean age of 62.1 ± 8.5 years, and 54% were female. As expected, participants with diabetes had significantly higher mean glycated haemoglobin A1c compared to participants without diabetes (57.4 ± 17.6 mmol/mol versus 37.0 ± 4.2 mmol/mol, respectively). In unadjusted and minimally adjusted regression, arteriolar to venular ratio, arteriolar tortuosity and venular tortuosity were significantly associated with diabetes (minimally adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 0.85; 95% confidence intervals [CIs] 0.73, 0.99; P = 0.04, OR = 1.18; 95% CI 1.02, 1.37; P = 0.03 and OR = 1.20; 95% CI 1.04, 1.38; P = 0.01, respectively), although all failed to remain significant following adjustment for potential confounders. No additional associations between other RMPs and diabetes were detected.

Conclusion

Despite previously reported associations between diabetes and RMPs, our study failed to corroborate these associations in an older community-based cohort.
From practice to policy — exploring the travel and transformation of energy savings calculations and its implications for future energy transitions
Authors: Johansen Jens Petter , Almklov Petter Grytten , Skjølsvold Tomas Moe
Published: July 2021

Improving energy efficiency in industries is imperative for sustainable transitions. This article explores the logic behind calculating energy savings from energy efficiency improvements. Based on a qualitative study of industry-research projects and policies to improve energy efficiency in Norway, the article presents different ways energy savings are estimated when assessing the viability of novel technologies. Here, energy savings are calculated as the difference in energy consumption between a proposed technology (use-case) and an alternative scenario (base-case). We discuss the heterogeneity of the chosen cases of comparison, as they are associated with a wide variety of uncertainty, contextual preconditions, estimates, and projections. Further, we trace the calculations of energy savings of one of these projects as they move from the context of research and technology assessment to official reporting. We show how the circumstances where these numbers are produced become black-boxed as the calculations are transformed and aggregated into a policy program-specific measurement “energy results” in Norway. Our findings show that the project and policy objectives and measurements point in somewhat different directions. Through this, we unpack the logic inscribed in energy savings calculations and the way these are applied to reach multiple goals.
Coming Out, Distress and Identity Threat in Gay Men in the UK
Authors: Breakwell Glynis M. , Jaspal Rusi
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Coming out as gay can be a psychologically challenging event, and recall of a negative coming out experience can initiate subsequent identity changes in gay men. We tested whether baseline levels of identity resilience and internalized homonegativity moderate these effects.

Methods

A between-participant experimental study, with an ethnically diverse sample of 333 gay men in the United Kingdom (UK), examined levels of contemporaneous identity threat of reflecting upon recollections of either a coming out experience that had a negative or a stabilizing effect on self-schema. Data were collected in 2020 and analyzed using multiple regression and path analysis.

Results

Path analysis showed that a model predicting level of identity threat after recall of a negative coming out experience fitted the data well. Identity resilience was negatively correlated with internalized homonegativity and distress during memory recall. Both distress and homonegativity correlated positively with identity threat. The relationship between recalling a negative coming out experience and distress was mediated by the perceived typicality of the recalled experience.

Conclusions

Through its effects on distress and internalized homonegativity, identity resilience reduces the threatening effect of recollecting a negative coming out experience upon contemporary identity.

Policy Implications

Offering gay men awareness of the social and psychological routes to raising identity resilience may be beneficial in reducing internalized homonegativity and the ongoing effects of remembered negative coming out experiences.
Virtual Reality-Based Treatment Approaches in the Field of Substance Use Disorders
Authors: Tsamitros N. , Sebold M. , Gutwinski S. , Beck A.
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Substance use disorders (SUD) are burdening chronic conditions characterized by high relapse rates despite severe negative consequences. Substance-related cues that elicit craving by means of automatic physiological and behavioural responses have long been suggested to predict relapse. One major mechanism contributing to relapse behaviour are cue-induced behavioural approach tendencies towards the addictive agent. Recently, there has been an emerging interest in virtual reality (VR)-based approaches to assess and modify craving and its related responses. This review aims at elucidating (1) VR techniques applied in the field of SUD, (2) VR as an induction/assessment tool for biopsychological correlates of craving and (3) VR-based therapeutic approaches.

Findings

There is an emerging number of studies focusing on different substances of abuse incorporating VR in craving induction/assessment as well as therapy. Despite some limitations as missing of randomized controlled clinical trials with large samples and missing data on the long-term effects of VR treatment, the VR approach showed consistent results in eliciting and reducing craving across different substances.

This review suggests virtual reality as a promising tool for the assessment and treatment of craving among individuals with substance use disorders. Because of its ecological validity, VR unifies the benefits of a laboratory setting with the advantages of a realistic environment. Further studies with large samples and randomized controlled clinical trials using more homogenous VR techniques as well as assessment of objective biophysiological craving markers are required.
Multi-objective particle swarm optimization with R2 indicator and adaptive method
Authors: Gu Qinghua , Jiang Mengke , Jiang Song , Chen Lu
Published: July 2021

Multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithms encounter significant challenges when tackling many-objective optimization problems. This is mainly because of the imbalance between convergence and diversity that occurs when increasing the selection pressure. In this paper, a novel adaptive MOPSO (ANMPSO) algorithm based on R2 contribution and adaptive method is developed to improve the performance of MOPSO. First, a new global best solutions selection mechanism with R2 contribution is introduced to select leaders with better diversity and convergence. Second, to obtain a uniform distribution of particles, an adaptive method is used to guide the flight of particles. Third, a re-initialization strategy is proposed to prevent particles from trapping into local optima. Empirical studies on a large number (64 in total) of problem instances have demonstrated that ANMPSO performs well in terms of inverted generational distance and hyper-volume metrics. Experimental studies on the practical application have also revealed that ANMPSO could effectively solve problems in the real world.
Entwicklung einer ergonomischen Lagerplatzvergabe in der manuellen Person-zur-Ware Kommissionierung
Authors: Steinebach Tim , Wakula Jurij , Bruder Ralph , Paulke Maximilian
Published: July 2021

In diesem Beitrag soll eine ergonomische Lagerplatzvergabe für Lager mit Fachbodenregalen entwickelt werden, welche Artikel bestimmten Lagerplätzen entsprechend der benötigten Kommissionierzeit und der körperlichen Belastung optimal zuordnet. Zur Bestimmung der Zeit wird der MTM-UAS Standard genutzt. Da Erkrankungen im unteren Rückenbereich bei Kommissionierenden besonders häufig auftreten, wird als Belastungskenngröße die Druckkraft auf das Wirbelsäulensegment L5-S1 gewählt. Zur Ermittlung dieser Kenngröße werden Kommissionierversuche (n = 11) durchgeführt und eingenommene Körperhaltungen in ein biomechanisches Simulationsprogramm implementiert. Die Zeit- und Belastungskenngrößen werden in einer bikriteriellen Optimierung pareto-effizient gelöst, wobei aufgrund des Zielkonflikts Kompromisslösungen der beiden Zielgrößen besonders attraktiv sind.

Praktische Relevanz: In der Kommissionierung ist der Anteil von manuellen Tätigkeiten hoch, sodass Mitarbeitende potenziell hohen körperlichen Belastungen ausgesetzt sind. Planungskonzepte in der Kommissionierung, die ergonomische Kriterien berücksichtigen, sind selten – dieser Ansatz soll entsprechend eine Reduzierung der körperlichen Belastung durch die Lagerplatzvergabe (LPV) ermöglichen. Interessant für praktische Anwender ist, dass die entwickelte LPV unabhängig vom Lagerlayout angewendet werden kann. Im Gegensatz zu anderen Lösungen, wie z. B. Teilautomatisierungen, mechanische Hebehilfen oder Exoskelette, erfordert eine Änderung der LPV zudem kaum Investitionskosten.
Anmerkungen zur Modellierung und Operationalisierung (allgemeindidaktischer) Unterrichtsplanungskompetenz
Authors: Rothland Martin
Published: July 2021

Gegenstand des Diskussionsbeitrags ist die im deutschsprachigen Raum prosperierende Forschung zur allgemeindidaktischen Unterrichtsplanungskompetenz. Ausgehend von den Fragen, was allgemeindidaktisch begründet Unterrichtsplanungskompetenz ist, wie sie sich zu den Facetten professioneller Handlungskompetenz von Lehrkräften verhält, wie sie begründet, eigens modelliert und empirisch erfasst wird, kann herausgestellt werden, dass der Diskurs inklusive der vorgeschlagenen Modellierungen und Ansätze der Messung von Unterrichtsplanungskompetenz vielfach von grundlegenden Annahmen geprägt ist, die selbst der empirischen Überprüfung und Absicherung bedürfen. Die diskutierten Modelle und Operationalisierungen allgemeindidaktischer Unterrichtsplanungskompetenz samt einer vorherrschenden Fokussierung auf die Lehrer*innenbildung erzeugen so mitunter mehr offene Fragen als systematisch und differenziert argumentierende theoretische wie empirische Klärungen.
Zum Zusammenhang zwischen der Einstellung der Lehrkraft zu inklusivem Sportunterricht und sozialer Interaktionen von Kindern
Authors: Furrer Vitus , Mumenthaler Fabian , Valkanover Stefan , Eckhart Michael , Nagel Siegfried
Published: July 2021

Im Zentrum des Beitrags stehen zwei Fragen: 1. Unterscheiden sich Kinder mit und ohne kognitive Beeinträchtigung im inklusiven Sportunterricht in ihren sozialen Interaktionen? 2. Besteht dabei ein Zusammenhang mit der Einstellung der Sportlehrkraft gegenüber inklusiver Bildung? Dazu wurden in einer Querschnittsanalyse 1502 Kinder und 84 Lehrkräfte auf Grundschulstufe befragt. Soziale Netzwerkanalysen zeigen, dass Kinder mit sonderpädagogischem Förderbedarf (SPF) im Sportunterricht signifikant weniger soziale Interaktionen erhalten als Kinder ohne SPF, jedoch gleich viele ausgehende Interaktionen aufweisen. Die sozialen Interaktionen hängen jedoch nicht mit der Einstellung der Lehrkraft zusammen. Auf dieser Basis wird die Rolle der Lehrkraft für die sozialen Interaktionen der Kinder diskutiert.