bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying Phase‐Dependent Electrochemical Stripping Performance of FeOOH Nanorod: Evidence from Kinetic Simulation and Analyte–Material Interactions
Authors: Yang Meng , Li Yi‐Xiang , Jiang Min , Li Pei‐Hua , Chen Shi‐Hua , Liu Jin‐Huai , Lin Chu‐Hong , Huang Xing‐Jiu , Liu Wen‐Qing
Published: January 2020

Metal hydroxide nanomaterials are widely applied in the energy and environment fields. The electrochemical performance of such materials is strongly dependent on their crystal phases. However, as there are always multiple factors relating to the phase‐dependent electrochemistry, it is still difficult to identify the determining one. The well‐defined crystal phases of α‐ and β‐FeOOH nanorods are characterized through the transmission electron microscopy by a series of rotation toward one rod, where the cross‐section shape and the growth direction along the [001] crystalline are first verified for 1D FeOOH nanostructures. The electrosensitivity of the two materials toward Pb(II) is tested, where α‐FeOOH performs an outstanding sensitivity whilst it is only modest for β‐FeOOH. Experiments via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray absorption fine structure (XAFS), etc., show that α‐FeOOH presents a larger Pb(II) adsorption capacity due to more surficial hydroxyl groups and weaker PbO bond strength. The reaction kinetics are simulated and the adsorption capacity is found to be the determining factor for the distinct Pb(II) sensitivities. Combining experiment with simulation, this work reveals the physical insights of the phase‐dependent electrochemistry for FeOOH and provides guidelines for the functional application of metal hydroxide nanomaterials.
Spatial assessment of groundwater quality in Guna Tana landscape
Authors: Andualem Tesfa Gebrie , Kassa Mulatu , Ahmed Imran , Dar Mithas Ahmad
Published: January 2020

This study focuses on investigating the quality of groundwater for irrigation and drinking water purposes. Spatial distribution of physicochemical and microbiological parameters was assessed from samples collected from springs, hand‐dug wells, and boreholes found the Guna Tana landscape. A total of 70 samples were considered for physical, chemical, and bacteriological water quality determination. The results revealed that most of the groundwater quality index (WQI) values lie between good and excellent. The maximum, minimum, mean, and standard deviation of each water quality parameter were prepared for evaluating groundwater quality. According to the WQI values, more than 83% of the water samples were classified as excellent water for drinking. More than 92% of the water samples showed low sodium hazards for irrigation and about 48% and 46% of the water samples were classified as within the excellent and good water classes for irrigation based on their electrical conductance levels. Therefore, the groundwater that is found in the Guna Tana landscape could be used for drinking and irrigation purposes without any advanced treatment.
Vitamin requirements and biosynthesis in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Perli Thomas , Wronska Anna K. , Ortiz‐Merino Raúl A. , Pronk Jack T. , Daran Jean‐Marc
Published: January 2020

Chemically defined media for yeast cultivation (CDMY) were developed to support fast growth, experimental reproducibility, and quantitative analysis of growth rates and biomass yields. In addition to mineral salts and a carbon substrate, popular CDMYs contain seven to nine B‐group vitamins, which are either enzyme cofactors or precursors for their synthesis. Despite the widespread use of CDMY in fundamental and applied yeast research, the relation of their design and composition to the actual vitamin requirements of yeasts has not been subjected to critical review since their first development in the 1940s. Vitamins are formally defined as essential organic molecules that cannot be synthesized by an organism. In yeast physiology, use of the term “vitamin” is primarily based on essentiality for humans, but the genome of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae reference strain S288C harbours most of the structural genes required for synthesis of the vitamins included in popular CDMY. Here, we review the biochemistry and genetics of the biosynthesis of these compounds by S. cerevisiae and, based on a comparative genomics analysis, assess the diversity within the Saccharomyces genus with respect to vitamin prototrophy.
Synthesis of β‐Ketoiminato Copper(II) Complexes and Their Use in Copper Deposition
Authors: Preuß Andrea , Korb Marcus , Rüffer Tobias , Bankwitz Jörn , Georgi Colin , Jakob Alexander , Schulz Stefan E. , Lang Heinrich
Published: January 2020

The template synthesis of ethylenediamine (1) with 2‐acetylcyclopentanone (2) and [Cu(OAc)2·H2O] (5) produced [Cu(1‐(2‐cC5H6(O))C(Me)NCH2)2)] (6) in 82 % yield. Reaction of 5 with bis(benzoylacetone)diethylenetriamine (7, = LH)[1] gave [Cu(μ‐OAc)(L)(H2O)]2 (8). The solid‐state structures of 6 and 8 were determined confirming that 8 possesses intra‐ and intermolecular hydrogen bonds resulting in a dimer formation. The thermal behavior of 6–8 was studied by TG and TG‐MS. Under oxygen CuO was formed, whereas under Ar Cu/Cu2O (6) or Cu (8) was obtained. Complex 6 was used as CVD precursor for Cu and Cu‐oxide deposition (substrate temp., 400–500 °C, N2, 60 mL·min–1; O2, 60 mL·min–1; pressure, 0.87–1.5 mbar). The as‐obtained deposits show separated particles of different appearance at the substrate surface as evidenced by SEM. Non‐volatile 8 was applied as spin‐coating precursor for Cu and CuO formation [conc. 0.25 mol·L–1; volume 0.2 mL; 3000 rpm; depos. time 2 min; heating rate 50 K·min–1; holding time 60 min (Ar), 120 min (air) at 800 °C]. The samples on silicon consist of granulated particles (Ar) or are non‐dense with a grainy topography (air). EDX and XPS measurements confirmed the formation of Cu (Ar) or CuO (O2) with up to 13 mol‐% C impurity.
Synthesis of the Ruthenium Nitrosyl Complex with Coordinated Ammonia and Pyridine at Room Temperature
Authors: Vorobyev Vasily , Kostin Gennadiy A. , Baidina Iraida A. , Mikhailov Artem A. , Korolkov Ilya V. , Emelyanov Vyacheslav A.
Published: January 2020

The reaction of nitrate ruthenium complex, fac‐[RuNO(NH3)2(NO3)3], with pyridine resulted in cis‐[RuNO(NH3)2Py2(NO3)](NO3)2·H2O with 84 % yield of the product at room temperature. Addition of any solvent leads to the reaction failure; the excess of pyridine fulfilled the role of a solvent. The DFT simulation of the dissociative mechanism reveals that the nitrate loss from cis‐position to NO occurs more easily than for trans‐coordinated nitrate. This conclusion is in agreement with the X‐ray determined structure of the product. In the solid state, the nitrosyl groups of two neighboring complexes are closely positioned to each other. The small available volume around the nitrosyl group, ca. 0.5 Å3, leads to the enhanced stability of the photoinduced metastable state. The Ru–ON isomer converts back to the ground N‐coordinated state with 0.001 s–1 rate constant at 257 K. This O‐coordinated isomer of the studied complex is one of the ten known most stable Ru–ON isomers ranked by the “decay” temperature.
Hierarchical Porous NiCo2O4 Microboxes Constructed by Low‐Dimensional Substructures for Electrochemical Supercapacitor
Authors: Zhu Tuyuan , Zhang Huiwen , Sha Ying , Huang Yingchong , Li Yuqi , Zhao Dian , Gao Xuehui
Published: January 2020

The design and synthesis of new materials/structures for high‐performance electrochemical capacitors (ECs) is an ongoing challenge. Herein, a hierarchical porous NiCo2O4 microbox superstructure made of low‐dimensional substructures was reported. The as‐prepared NiCo2O4 microboxes are constructed by 2D nanosheets building units, which are futher woven by 0D nanoparticles and 1D nanowires. Such microbox superstructures combine the merits of all material dimensions in electrochemical capacitors, such as high porosity, sufficient active sites, and fast mass and charge transport. Benefiting from the structural advantages, the resultant NiCo2O4 microbox electrode exhibits ultra‐high capacitor performance, i.e., the initial capacitance of 1820 F·g–1 and 96.6 % capacitance retention after 4000 cycles at 5 A·g–1.
André do Avelar and the Teaching of Sacrobosco’s Sphaera at the University of Coimbra
Authors: de Andrade Martins Roberto
Published: January 2020

André do Avelar was the mathematics professor of University of Coimbra from 1592 to 1616. During his lifetime he published two astronomical works: a popular vernacular book called Reportorio dos tempos (1585) and Sphaerae vtrivsque tabella (1593). Avelar’s Sphaera, composed for use at the university, was the only Latin version of Sacrobosco’s work ever published in Portugal. Avelar’s book was inspired by Sacrobosco’s work and followed it closely, but it might be regarded as a new work, because he changed the wording and the order of presentation of the topics, added new information and several tables. After his retirement, Avelar was accused of Jewish beliefs and practices, and was condemned by the Inquisition in 1620, dying in prison. This paper analyzes Avelar’s life, his work at the University of Coimbra, the content and role of his Sphaera, his career, and his trial by the Inquisition.
Pedro Sánchez Ciruelo. A Commentary on Sacrobosco’s Tractatus de sphaera with a Defense of Astrology
Authors: Lanuza Navarro Tayra M. C.
Published: January 2020

This paper focuses on the figure of the Spanish scholar Pedro Sánchez Ciruelo (ca. 1470–1548), who published a commentary on Johannes de Sacrobosco’sSphaerain 1498. The aim of this study is to analyze the defense of astrology that Ciruelo prepared for the preface of his commentary in order to show that this praise of astrology represents a significant part of the scholar’s intellectual interests, which remained constant throughout his career. It is possible to get a richer understanding of Ciruelo’s defenses of astrology in several of his works by placing them in their own specific context: the first one in the context of the prohibition of Simon de Phares’s activities in Paris in 1494, and the second one in Europe in the first decades of the sixteenth century, during which those interested in astrology were mainly concerned with Pico della Mirandola’sDisputationesand its consequences for the discipline.
Borrowers and Innovators in the History of Printing Sacrobosco: The Case of the In-Octavo Tradition
Authors: Pantin Isabelle
Published: January 2020

The Sacrobosco editions constitute a textual tradition wherein innovation owed to the interaction of two types of actors: borrowers, responsible for chains of related editions, and innovators, who wrote relatively original commentaries. This can be observed in the “in-octavo tradition,” a series of editions printed in several European towns, which began with Apianus’s 1526 Sphaera and endured until the seventeenth century. Different kinds of innovation were produced in it (concerning the layout, the illustration, and different kinds of textual additions). This successful attempt at standardization produced a kind of manual that always retained an essential part of its original features while remaining capable of evolution. This evolution was due to close cooperation between the publishers and mathematicians, and to the fact that the former, with a few exceptions, kept control over the process, and combined innovation with the artful practice of reusing borrowed material.
Affektpoetik der Forschungsmemoiren
Authors: Shah Mira
Published: January 2020

Im Vorangegangenen ging es anhand der primatologischen Forschungsmemoiren um die Darstellung einer neuen Form der Forschung im Feld, die nicht nur auf der Partizipation von Emotionalität an epistemologischen Vorgängen, sondern auf der Methode einer teilnehmenden und empathischen Beobachtung beruht.
A clonoid based approach to some finiteness results in universal algebraic geometry
Authors: Aichinger Erhard , Rossi Bernardo
Published: January 2020

We prove that for a finite first order structure $${\mathbf {A}}$$A and a set of first order formulas $$\Phi $$Φ in its language with certain closure properties, the finitary relations on A that are definable via formulas in $$\Phi $$Φ are uniquely determined by those of arity $$|A|^{2}$$|A|2. This yields new proofs for some finiteness results from universal algebraic geometry.
A Family of Orthogonal Rational Functions and Other Orthogonal Systems with a skew-Hermitian Differentiation Matrix
Authors: Iserles Arieh , Webb Marcus
Published: January 2020

In this paper we explore orthogonal systems in $$\mathrm {L}_2(\mathbb {R})$$L2(R) which give rise to a skew-Hermitian, tridiagonal differentiation matrix. Surprisingly, allowing the differentiation matrix to be complex leads to a particular family of rational orthogonal functions with favourable properties: they form an orthonormal basis for $$\mathrm {L}_2(\mathbb {R})$$L2(R), have a simple explicit formulae as rational functions, can be manipulated easily and the expansion coefficients are equal to classical Fourier coefficients of a modified function, hence can be calculated rapidly. We show that this family of functions is essentially the only orthonormal basis possessing a differentiation matrix of the above form and whose coefficients are equal to classical Fourier coefficients of a modified function though a monotone, differentiable change of variables. Examples of other orthogonal bases with skew-Hermitian, tridiagonal differentiation matrices are discussed as well.
Glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide and risk of cardiovascular events and mortality: a prospective study
Authors: Jujić Amra , Atabaki-Pasdar Naeimeh , Nilsson Peter M. , Almgren Peter , Hakaste Liisa , Tuomi Tiinamaija , Berglund Lisa M. , Franks Paul W. , Holst Jens J. , Prasad Rashmi B. , Torekov Signe S. , Ravassa Susana , Díez Javier , Persson Margaretha , Melander Olle , Gomez Maria F. , Groop Leif , Ahlqvist Emma , Magnusson Martin
Published: January 2020

Aims/hypothesis

Evidence that glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) and/or the GIP receptor (GIPR) are involved in cardiovascular biology is emerging. We hypothesised that GIP has untoward effects on cardiovascular biology, in contrast to glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), and therefore investigated the effects of GIP and GLP-1 concentrations on cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mortality risk.

Methods

GIP concentrations were successfully measured during OGTTs in two independent populations (Malmö Diet Cancer–Cardiovascular Cohort [MDC-CC] and Prevalence, Prediction and Prevention of Diabetes in Botnia [PPP-Botnia]) in a total of 8044 subjects. GLP-1 (n = 3625) was measured in MDC-CC. The incidence of CVD and mortality was assessed via national/regional registers or questionnaires. Further, a two-sample Mendelian randomisation (2SMR) analysis between the GIP pathway and outcomes (coronary artery disease [CAD] and myocardial infarction) was carried out using a GIP-associated genetic variant, rs1800437, as instrumental variable. An additional reverse 2SMR was performed with CAD as exposure variable and GIP as outcome variable, with the instrumental variables constructed from 114 known genetic risk variants for CAD.

Results

In meta-analyses, higher fasting levels of GIP were associated with risk of higher total mortality (HR[95% CI] = 1.22 [1.11, 1.35]; p = 4.5 × 10−5) and death from CVD (HR[95% CI] 1.30 [1.11, 1.52]; p = 0.001). In accordance, 2SMR analysis revealed that increasing GIP concentrations were associated with CAD and myocardial infarction, and an additional reverse 2SMR revealed no significant effect of CAD on GIP levels, thus confirming a possible effect solely of GIP on CAD.

Conclusions/interpretation

In two prospective, community-based studies, elevated levels of GIP were associated with greater risk of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality within 5–9 years of follow-up, whereas GLP-1 levels were not associated with excess risk. Further studies are warranted to determine the cardiovascular effects of GIP per se.
Petrography, geochemistry, and geochronology of the Sc-enriched Kiviniemi ferrodiorite intrusion, eastern Finland
Authors: Halkoaho Tapio , Ahven Marjaana , Rämö O. Tapani , Hokka Janne , Huhma Hannu
Published: January 2020

The Kiviniemi mafic intrusion, near the eastern margin of the Paleoproterozoic Central Finland Granitoid Complex, is both spatially and temporally associated with post-kinematic Fe-Ti-P-enriched Svecofennian orogenic mafic magmatism. The main rock types in this small (~ 15 ha) intrusion are garnet-bearing fayalite ferrodiorite, leucoferrodiorite, ferromonzodiorite, and pyroxene diorite. The garnet-bearing fayalite ferrodiorite and leucoferrodiorite contain 50–281 ppm Sc, 275–5600 ppm Zr, and 58–189 ppm Y (n = 42), delineating a mineralized deposit some 2.5 ha in extent. Overall, these rocks show an evolved (iron-enriched) tholeiitic character; low values of Ni (< 20–40 ppm), Cr (< 20 ppm), and Cu (< 20–80 ppm); and high contents of Zn (213–700 ppm). The rock-forming minerals in the ferrodioritic rocks are (ferro)hedenbergite, plagioclase (~ An40), ferropargasite and ferroedenite, almandine garnet, and fayalite (Fo1–4). Accessory minerals include zircon, ilmenite, fluorapatite, biotite, pyrite, pyrrhotite, potassium feldspar, grunerite, and clinoferrosilite. Some relict cumulate textures have been preserved, but primary magmatic features have largely been overprinted by strong recrystallization and corona formation. The main carriers of Sc are amphibole, clinopyroxene, and apatite. The remarkably strong enrichment of Sc in ferromagnesian silicates and apatite, rather than in specific Sc-minerals, implies magmatic enrichment. Post-kinematic mafic intrusions in central Finland constitute a bimodal association with co-existing granitoid counterparts. The Kiviniemi mafic intrusion is associated with a coarse megacrystic granite and the two rock type display mingled contacts, indicative of contemporaneity of the two magmas. This conclusion is in accord with the coincident U-Pb zircon ages for the ferrodiorite, at 1857 ± 2 Ma (multigrain ID-TIMS) and the megacrystic granite, at 1860 ± 7 Ma (single-crystal LA-MC-ICP-MS). The initial εNd value of the ferrodiorite and the granite are + 0.1 and − 2.5, respectively. These Nd isotope compositions probably reflect a chondritic mantle source for the ferrodiorite and suggest incorporation of some Archaean crustal material into the granite in the course of magmatic evolution. The resource estimation calculated for Kiviniemi intrusion by using 40 g/t Sc cut off value is 13.4 Mt of rock with an average grade of 162.7 g/t scandium, 1726 g/t zirconium, and 81 g/t yttrium.
Correlation Between Sarcopenia and Growth Rate of the Future Liver Remnant After Portal Vein Embolization in Patients with Colorectal Liver Metastases
Authors: Schulze-Hagen M. , Truhn D. , Duong F. , Keil S. , Pedersoli F. , Kuhl C. K. , Lurje G. , Neumann U. , Isfort P. , Bruners P. , Zimmermann M.
Published: January 2020

Purpose

To investigate whether sarcopenia and myosteatosis correlate with the degree of hypertrophy (DH) and kinetic growth rate (KiGR) of the future liver remnant (FLR) in patients with colorectal liver metastases undergoing portal vein embolization (PVE) in preparation for right hepatectomy.

Materials and Methods

Forty-two patients were included. Total liver volume and FLR volume were measured before and 2–4 weeks after PVE. KiGR of the FLR was calculated. Sarcopenia was assessed using the total psoas muscle volume (PMV), the psoas muscle cross-sectional area (PMCS) and the total skeletal muscle index (L3SMI) at the level of 3rd lumbar vertebra. Degree of myosteatosis was assessed by mean muscle attenuation at L3 (L3MA). Correlations between muscle indices and DH and KiGR were assessed using simple linear regression analyses.

Results

Mean DH was 8.9 ± 5.7%, and mean KiGR was 3.6 ± 2.3. Mean PMV was 55.56 ± 14.19 cm3/m3, mean PMCS was 8.76 ± 2.3 cm2/m2, mean L3SMI was 45.6 ± 9.89 cm2/m2, and mean L3MA was 27.9 ± 18.6 HU. There was a strong positive correlation between PMV and DH (R = 0.503, p = 0.001) and PMV and KiGR (R = 0.545, p < 0.001). Furthermore, there was a moderate correlation between PMCS and KiGR (R = 0.389, p = 0.014). L3SMI and L3MA were neither associated with DH (p = 0.390 and p = 0.768, respectively) nor with KiGR (p = 0.188 and p = 0.929, respectively).

Conclusion

We identified a positive correlation between PMV and PMCS, as markers for sarcopenia, and the KiGR of the FLR after PVE. PMV and PMCS might therefore aid to identify patients who are poor candidates for FLR augmentation using PVE alone.
Refining the criteria for immediate total-body CT after severe trauma
Authors:   on behalf of the REACT-2 study group, Treskes Kaij , Saltzherr Teun P. , Edwards Michael J. R. , Beuker Benn J. A. , Van Lieshout Esther M. M. , Hohmann Joachim , Luitse Jan S. K. , Beenen Ludo F. M. , Hollmann Markus W. , Dijkgraaf Marcel G. W. , Goslings J. Carel
Published: January 2020

Objectives

Initial trauma care could potentially be improved when conventional imaging and selective CT scanning is omitted and replaced by immediate total-body CT (iTBCT) scanning. Because of the potentially increased radiation exposure by this diagnostic approach, proper selection of the severely injured patients is mandatory.

Methods

In the REACT-2 trial, severe trauma patients were randomized to iTBCT or conventional imaging and selective CT based on predefined criteria regarding compromised vital parameters, clinical suspicion of severe injuries, or high-risk trauma mechanisms in five trauma centers. By logistic regression analysis with backward selection on the 15 study inclusion criteria, a revised set of criteria was derived and subsequently tested for prediction of severe injury and shifts in radiation exposure.

Results

In total, 1083 patients were enrolled with median ISS of 20 (IQR 9–29) and median GCS of 13 (IQR 3–15). Backward logistic regression resulted in a revised set consisting of nine original and one adjusted criteria. Positive predictive value improved from 76% (95% CI 74–79%) to 82% (95% CI 80–85%). Sensitivity decreased by 9% (95% CI 7–11%). The area under the receiver operating characteristics curve remained equal and was 0.80 (95% CI 0.77–0.83), original set 0.80 (95% CI 0.77–0.83). The revised set retains 8.78 mSv (95% CI 6.01–11.56) for 36% of the non-severely injured patients.

Conclusions

Selection criteria for iTBCT can be reduced from 15 to 10 clinically criteria. This improves the positive predictive value for severe injury and reduces radiation exposure for less severely injured patients.

Key Points

• Selection criteria for iTBCT can be reduced to 10 clinically useful criteria.

• This reduces radiation exposure in 36% of less severely injured patients.

• Overall discriminative capacity for selection of severely injured patients remained equal.
Accuracy of sand beach topography surveying by drones and photogrammetry
Authors: Casella Elisa , Drechsel Jan , Winter Christian , Benninghoff Markus , Rovere Alessio
Published: January 2020

Beaches are characterized by high morphodynamic activity, and high-frequency measurements are needed to understand their states and rates of change. Ideally, beach survey methods should be at once accurate, rapid and low-cost. Recently, unmanned aerial systems (drones) have been increasingly utilized to measure beach topography. In this paper, we present a review of the state of art in drones and photogrammetry for beach surveys and the respective achieved measurement quality (where reported). We then show how drones with a minimal configuration and a low-cost setup can meet the high accuracy and rapidity required for beach surveys. To test a minimal drone and ground control point configuration, we used consumer-grade equipment to perform the same flight path with different cameras and at different altitudes. We then used photogrammetry to produce digital elevation models of the beach. Using a GNSS-RTK system, we collected 2950 independent control points to evaluate the accuracy of the digital elevation models. Results show that, once a few potential sources of uncertainties in the final digital elevation model are taken into account, the average RMSE(z) of the digital elevation models was ~5 cm, with a survey efficiency of ca. 3 m2 min−1. Digital elevation models taken at different times were used to calculate the before–after sediment budget following a storm that hit a sandy coast in Sylt Island at the German North Sea coast.
A perspective in the management of myelomeningocoele in the KwaZulu-Natal Province of South Africa
Authors: Mnguni M. N. , Enicker B. C. , Madiba T. E.
Published: January 2020

Background

Myelomeningocoele (MMC) is common in the developing world. The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical characteristics and management of myelomeningocoele and to identify factors contributing to outcomes.

Methods

This was a retrospective, observational study of consecutive children diagnosed with MMC managed in the Paediatric Neurosurgery Unit at Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital. Multiple logistic regression analysis identified clinical characteristics, demographics and surgical variables that were associated with outcome.

Results

A total of 309 children were managed during this period (M:F 1.3:1). The most common sites were lumbar, lumbo-sacral and sacral. Mean age at surgical repair was 4.7 ± 15.6 months. Two hundred and eight children had ventriculomegaly, of whom 158 had symptomatic hydrocephalus, requiring CSF diversion. Fifty-eight (21%) patients developed wound sepsis, of whom 13 (22%) developed meningitis (p = 0.001). The time to wound sepsis was 9.5 ± 3.6 days. The commonest organism isolated was Staphylococcus aureus followed by MRSA. Thirty-two patients (23%) developed shunt malfunction and three (11%) developed ETV malfunction. Twenty children (9%) demised during the admission period. Death was associated with meningitis (p < 0.0001), and meningitis itself was associated with wound sepsis (p < 0.0001). Hospital stay was 20.4 ± 16 days. Wound sepsis (p = 0.002) and meningitis (p < 0.0001), respectively, were associated with prolonged hospital stay.

Conclusion

There was a slight male preponderance and hydrocephalus occurred in two thirds of cases. Wound sepsis and meningitis were associated poor outcomes.
Enhancement of the summer extreme precipitation over North China by interactions between moisture convergence and topographic settings
Authors: Zhao Yang , Chen Deliang , Li Jiao , Chen Dandan , Chang Yi , Li Juan , Qin Rui
Published: January 2020

This study investigates the roles of atmospheric moisture transport under the influence of topography for summer extreme precipitation over North China (NC) during 1979–2016. Based on rain gauge precipitation data and a reanalysis, 38 extreme precipitation days in NC during the 38 years were selected and associated moisture fluxes estimated. The results show that there is a dominant moisture influx of 311.8 kg m−1 s−1 into NC along its southern boundary from tropical oceans, and a secondary influx of 107.9 kg m−1 s−1 across its western boundary carried by mid-latitude westerlies. The outflux across the eastern boundary is 206.9 kg m−1 s−1 and across the northern boundary is 76.0 kg m−1 s−1, giving a net moisture gain over NC of 136.8 kg m−1 s−1. During extreme precipitation days, the moisture flux convergence (MFC) was much larger, exceeding 4 × 10−5 kg m−1 s−1. The MFC maximum core, the pronounced moisture transport, and the striking extreme precipitation zone over NC are all anchored to the east of the steep slopes of the surrounding topography. Moreover, a remarkably high humidity and strong upward motion also occur near steep slopes, indicating the critical role of the adjacent topography on the extreme precipitations. Simulations with and without the topography in NC using the Weather and Research Forecasting model for six selected out of the 38 extreme precipitation days demonstrate that the surrounding topography reinforces the MFC over NC by 16% relative to the case without terrain, primarily through enhanced wind convergence and higher moisture content, as well as stronger vertical motion induced by diabatic heating. The interactions between moisture convergence and topographic settings strengthen the extreme precipitation over NC.
Precision medicine in Parkinson’s disease: emerging treatments for genetic Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Schneider Susanne A. , Alcalay Roy N.
Published: January 2020

In recent years, numerous clinical trials for disease modification in Parkinson’s disease (PD) have failed, possibly because of a “one-size-fits all” approach. Alternatively, a precision medicine approach, which customises treatments based on patients’ individual genotype, may help reach disease modification. Here, we review clinical trials that target genetic forms of PD, i.e., GBA-associated and LRRK2-associated PD. In summary, six ongoing studies which explicitely recruit GBA-PD patients, and two studies which recruit LRRK2-PD patients, were identified. Available data on mechanisms of action, study design, and challenges of therapeutic trials are discussed.
Introspection about backward crosstalk in dual-task performance
Authors: Bratzke Daniel , Janczyk Markus
Published: January 2020

The present study investigated participants’ ability to introspect about the effect of between-task crosstalk in dual tasks. In two experiments, participants performed a compatibility-based backward crosstalk dual task, and additionally provided estimates of their RTs (introspective reaction times, IRTs) after each trial (Experiment 1) or after each pair of prime and test trials (Experiment 2). In both experiments, the objective performance showed the typical backward crosstalk effect and its sequential modulation depending on compatibility in the previous trial. Very similar patterns were observed in IRTs, despite the typical unawareness of the PRP effect. In sum, these results demonstrate the reliability of between-task crosstalk in dual tasks and that people’s introspection about the temporal processing demands in this complex dual-task situation is intriguingly accurate and severely limited at the same time.
Microgripper design and evaluation for automated µ-wire assembly: a survey
Authors: Llewellyn-Evans H. , Griffiths C. A. , Fahmy A.
Published: January 2020

Microgrippers are commonly used for micromanipulation of micro-objects from 1 to 100 µm and attain features of reliable accuracy, low cost, wide jaw aperture and variable applied force. This paper aim is to review the design of different microgrippers which can manipulate and assemble µ-wire to PCB connectors. A review was conducted on microgrippers’ technologies, comparing fundamental components of structure and actuators’ types, which determined the most suitable design for the required micromanipulation task. Various microgrippers’ design was explored to examine the suitability and the execution of requirements needed for successful micromanipulation.
Why we fail: mechanisms and co-factors of unsuccessful thrombectomy in acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Heider Dominik M. , Simgen Andreas , Wagenpfeil Gudrun , Dietrich Philipp , Yilmaz Umut , Mühl-Benninghaus Ruben , Roumia Safwan , Faßbender Klaus , Reith Wolfgang , Kettner Michael
Published: January 2020

Purpose

Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) is an effective treatment for patients suffering from acute ischemic stroke. However, recanalization fails in about 16.5% of interventions. We report our experience with unsuccessful MT and analyze technical reasons plus patient-related parameters for failure.

Methods

Five hundred ninety-six patients with acute ischemic stroke in the anterior circulation and intention to perform MT with an aspiration catheter and/or stent retriever were analyzed. Failure was defined as 0, 1, or 2a on the mTICI scale. Patients with failing MT were analyzed for interventional progress and compared to patients with successful intervention, whereby parameters included demographics, medical history, stroke presentation, and treatment.

Results

One hundred of the 596 (16.8%) interventions failed. In 20 cases, thrombus could not be accessed or passed with the device. Peripheral arterial occlusive disease is common in those patients. In 80 patients, true stent retriever failure occurred. In this group, coagulation disorders are associated with poor results, whereas atrial fibrillation is associated with success.

The administration of intravenous thrombolysis and intake of nitric oxide donors are associated with recanalization success. Intervention duration was significantly longer in the failing group.

Conclusion

In 20% of failing MT, thrombus cannot be reached/passed. Direct carotid puncture or surgical arterial access could be considered in these cases.

In 80% of failing interventions, thrombus can be passed with the device, but the occluded vessel cannot be recanalized. Rescue techniques can be an option. Development of new devices and techniques is necessary to improve recanalization rates. Assessment of pre-existing illness could sensitize for occurring complications.
Brain hyperintensities in magnetic resonance imaging of patients with mild acute focal neurology
Authors: Varsou Ourania , Turnbull Katie , Stringer Michael S , Fernandes Catarina Dinis , Murray Alison D , Schwarzbauer Christian , Macleod Mary Joan
Published: January 2020

Purpose

Hyperintensities are common in neuroimaging scans of patients with mild acute focal neurology. However, their pathogenic role and clinical significance is not well understood. We assessed whether there was an association between hyperintensity score with diagnostic category and clinical assessments/measures.

Methods

One hundred patients (51 ± 12 years; 45:55 women:men), with symptomatology suggestive of short duration ischemia referred for magnetic resonance imaging, were prospectively recruited in NHS Grampian between 2012 and 2014. Hyperintensities were quantified, on T2 and FLAIR, using the Scheltens score.

Results

The most frequent diagnosis was minor stroke (33%), migraine (25%) and transient ischemic attack (17%). The mean total Scheltens score was 28.49 ± 11.93 with all participants having various loads of hyperintensities. Statistically significant correlations between hyperintensity scores and clinical assessments/measures (age, systolic blood pressure, pulse pressure, MoCA) at the global level were also reflected regionally. These provide further supporting data in terms of the robustness of the Scheltens scale.

Conclusion

Hyperintensities could serve as a diagnostic and prognostic imaging biomarker for patients, presenting with mild acute focal neurology, warranting application of automated quantification methods. However, larger cohorts are required to provide a definitive answer especially as this is a heterogenous group of patients.
Demografischer Wandel und Renten: Beschäftigungspotenziale erfolgreich nutzen
Authors: Zwiener Rudolf , Blank Florian , Logeay Camille , Turk Erik , Woss Josef
Published: January 2020

Bei der Diskussion über notwendige Maßnahmen zur Bewältigung des demografischen Wandels wird die zukünftige Entwicklung des Arbeitsmarkts oft ignoriert, obwohl Analysen ein enormes ungenutztes Beschäftigungspotenzial vor allem bei Frauen, älteren Menschen und Migranten aufzeigen. Modellrechnungen zeigen, dass eine bessere Nutzung des vorhandenen Beschaftigungspotenzials, höhere Löhnen und eine Fiskalpolitik, die mehr Beschäftigung schafft, dazu beitragen, den demografischen Wandel sinnvoll zu steuern.
Osten holt auf, benötigt aber mehr Investitionen
Authors: Quaas Georg
Published: January 2020

Das dynamische Gleichgewicht, das sich in der deutschen Volkswirtschaft herausgebildet hat, ist im produktiven Bereich überwiegend durch eine Annäherung der neuen Bundesländer an die alten Bundesländer charakterisiert. Im Osten entwickelt sich die Produktivität besonders dynamisch und fast ausschließlich aufgrund des technischen Fortschritts. Dieser Prozess könnte durch Anreize für unternehmerische Investitionen beschleunigt werden. Angesichts der Größenordnung zusätzlich zu investierender Betrage - es fehlen ca. 45 Mrd. Euro, um die Kapitalausstattung anzugleichen - dürfte der Staat sehr schnell überfordert sein, wollte man ihm allein diese Aufgabe zuweisen.
Cognitive focus affects spatial decisions under conditions of uncertainty
Authors: Tenbrink Thora , Taylor Holly A. , Brunyé Tad T. , Gagnon Stephanie A. , Gardony Aaron L.
Published: January 2020

Finding one’s way to a destination is a common, everyday task that often relies on spatial information provided by humans and/or automatic devices. However, the information can be inaccurate. How we decide which route to take will depend on our thoughts about the available route information, including who or what provided it, and how these sources may be associated with differential accuracy and fallibility. In three experiments (previously reported in Brunyé et al. (Q J Exper Psychol 68(3):585–607, 2015)), we found that when route directions conflicted with the perceived environment, people trusted the landmark information other humans provided, but relied on the turn direction information from an automatic device. But what guides these behavioral results? Here we present a systematic linguistic analysis of retrospective reports that sheds some light on how information about the direction source affects cognitive focus. A focus on direction sources in the instruction triggered a cognitive focus on the direction source throughout. Participants who systematically switched strategies focused more on features of the scenario than those who did not. Non-switching strategies were associated with a higher focus on the participants’ own reasoning processes, in particular when relying on turn information. These results highlight how cognitive focus is guided by scenario factors and individual preferences, triggering inferences that influence decisions.
Adsorption selectivity of CO2 over CH4, N2 and H2 in melamine–resorcinol–formaldehyde xerogels
Authors: Principe Ivan A. , Fletcher Ashleigh J.
Published: January 2020

Sorptive selectivity of melamine–resorcinol–formaldehyde xerogels, towards CO2, CH4, N2 and H2, is reported, where all systems demonstrate potential for selective adsorption of CO2 from corresponding binary gas mixtures. Selected gas mixtures represent important gas separation applications found in industry, i.e. CO2 removal from power plant flue gases (CO2–N2), sour gas sweetening (CO2–CH4), and separation of species in the water–gas shift reaction (CO2–H2). All materials tested exhibit microporous character, enhancing adsorption of small molecules, however, it is the inclusion of a nitrogen-rich material into the gel matrix that results in enhanced selectivities for these systems. Despite the porous character of the gels, under the test conditions used to simulate industrial parameters, all three balance gases, i.e. H2, N2 and CH4, showed low affinities for the xerogels, while CO2 adsorption was notably higher and increased with the inclusion and increased concentration of melamine. Ideal adsorbed solution theory was used to demonstrate significant differences in adsorption uptake, especially for CO2–CH4, and high selectivities for CO2 over N2. In all cases, selected xerogels exhibited industrially relevant adsorption timescales for CO2 over competitor gases, demonstrating the potential of these materials for the selective adsorption of CO2 from process streams.
A multicriteria decision support tool for modelling bank credit ratings
Authors: Gaganis Chrysovalantis , Papadimitri Panagiota , Tasiou Menelaos
Published: January 2020

We introduce an application of the SMAA-Fuzzy-FlowSort approach to the case of modelling bank credit ratings. Its stochastic nature allows for imprecisions and uncertainty that naturally surround a decision-making exercise to be embedded into the proposed framework, whilst its output complements the ordinal nature of a crisp classification with cardinal information that shows the degree of membership to each rating category. Combined with the SMAA variant of GAIA that offers a visual of a bank’s judgmental analysis, both recent approaches provide a holistic multicriteria decision support tool in the hands of a credit analyst and enable a rich inferential procedure to be conducted. To illustrate the assets of this framework, we provide a case study evaluating the credit risk of 55 EU banks according to their financial fundamentals.
Highly selective bile acid hydroxylation by the multifunctional bacterial P450 monooxygenase CYP107D1 (OleP)
Authors: Grobe Sascha , Wszołek Agata , Brundiek Henrike , Fekete Melinda , Bornscheuer Uwe T.
Published: January 2020

Objective

Regio- and stereoselective hydroxylation of lithocholic acid (LCA) using CYP107D1 (OleP), a cytochrome P450 monooxygenase from the oleandomycin synthesis pathway of Streptomyces antibioticus.

Results

Co-expression of CYP107D1 from S. antibioticus and the reductase/ferredoxin system PdR/PdX from Pseudomonas putida was performed in Escherichia coli whole cells. In vivo hydroxylation of LCA exclusively yielded the 6β-OH product murideoxycholic acid (MDCA). In resting cells, 19.5% of LCA was converted to MDCA within 24 h, resulting in a space time yield of 0.04 mmol L−1 h−1. NMR spectroscopy confirmed the identity of MDCA as the sole product.

Conclusions

The multifunctional P450 monooxygenase CYP107D1 (OleP) can hydroxylate LCA, forming MDCA as the only product.
Does the extended evolutionary synthesis entail extended explanatory power?
Authors: Baedke Jan , Fábregas-Tejeda Alejandro , Vergara-Silva Francisco
Published: January 2020

Biologists and philosophers of science have recently called for an extension of evolutionary theory. This so-called ‘extended evolutionary synthesis’ (EES) seeks to integrate developmental processes, extra-genetic forms of inheritance, and niche construction into evolutionary theory in a central way. While there is often agreement in evolutionary biology over the existence of these phenomena, their explanatory relevance is questioned. Advocates of EES posit that their perspective offers better explanations than those provided by ‘standard evolutionary theory’ (SET). Still, why this would be the case is unclear. Usually, such claims assume that EES’s superior explanatory status arises from the pluralist structure of EES, its different problem agenda, and a growing body of evidence for the evolutionary relevance of developmental phenomena (including developmental bias, inclusive inheritance, and niche construction). However, what is usually neglected in this debate is a discussion of what the explanatory standards of EES actually are, and how they differ from prevailing standards in SET. In other words, what is considered to be a good explanation in EES versus SET? To answer this question, we present a theoretical framework that evaluates the explanatory power of different evolutionary explanations of the same phenomena. This account is able to identify criteria for why and when evolutionary explanations of EES are better than those of SET. Such evaluations will enable evolutionary biology to find potential grounds for theoretical integration.
Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation (tACS) as a Tool to Modulate P300 Amplitude in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Preliminary Findings
Authors: Dallmer-Zerbe Isa , Popp Fabian , Lam Alexandra Philomena , Philipsen Alexandra , Herrmann Christoph Siegfried
Published: January 2020

Studies examining event-related potentials (ERP) in patients affected by attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have found considerable evidence of reduced target P300 amplitude across different perceptual modalities. P300 amplitude has been related to attention-driven context comparison and resource allocation processes. Altered P300 amplitude in ADHD can be reasonably assumed to be related to ADHD typical cognitive performance deficits. Transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) can increase the amplitude of endogenous brain oscillations. Because ERP components can be viewed as event-related oscillations (EROs), with P300 translating into the delta (0–4 Hz) and theta (4–8 Hz) frequency range, an increase of delta and theta ERO amplitudes by tACS should result in an increase of P300 amplitudes in ADHD patients. In this pilot study, 18 adult ADHD patients (7 female) performed three consecutive blocks of a visual oddball task while the electroencephalogram (EEG) was recorded. Patients received either 20 min of tACS or sham stimulation at a stimulation intensity of 1 mA. Individual stimulation frequency was determined using a time–frequency decomposition of the P300. Our preliminary results demonstrate a significant increase in P300 amplitude in the stimulation group which was accompanied by a decrease in omission errors pre-to-post tACS. However, studies including larger sample sizes are advised.
Comparative analysis of thylakoid protein complexes in state transition mutants nsi and stn7: focus on PSI and LHCII
Authors: Koskela Minna M. , Brünje Annika , Ivanauskaite Aiste , Lopez Laura S. , Schneider Dominik , DeTar Rachael A. , Kunz Hans-Henning , Finkemeier Iris , Mulo Paula
Published: January 2020

The photosynthetic machinery of plants can acclimate to changes in light conditions by balancing light-harvesting between the two photosystems (PS). This acclimation response is induced by the change in the redox state of the plastoquinone pool, which triggers state transitions through activation of the STN7 kinase and subsequent phosphorylation of light-harvesting complex II (LHCII) proteins. Phosphorylation of LHCII results in its association with PSI (state 2), whereas dephosphorylation restores energy allocation to PSII (state 1). In addition to state transition regulation by phosphorylation, we have recently discovered that plants lacking the chloroplast acetyltransferase NSI are also locked in state 1, even though they possess normal LHCII phosphorylation. This defect may result from decreased lysine acetylation of several chloroplast proteins. Here, we compared the composition of wild type (wt),stn7andnsithylakoid protein complexes involved in state transitions separated by Blue Native gel electrophoresis. Protein complex composition and relative protein abundances were determined by LC–MS/MS analyses using iBAQ quantification. We show that despite obvious mechanistic differences leading to defects in state transitions, no major differences were detected in the composition of PSI and LHCII between the mutants. Moreover, bothstn7andnsiplants show retarded growth and decreased PSII capacity under fluctuating light as compared to wt, while the induction of non-photochemical quenching under fluctuating light was much lower in bothnsimutants than instn7.