bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crystal‐Phase‐Selective Etching of Heterophase Au Nanostructures
Authors: Saleem Faisal , Liu Guangyao , Liu Guigao , Chen Bo , Yun Qinbai , Ge Yiyao , Zhang An , Wang Xixi , Zhou Xichen , Wang Gang , Liao Lingwen , He Zhen , Li Lujiang , Zhang Hua
Published: July 2024

Selective oxidative etching is one of the most effective ways to prepare hollow nanostructures and nanocrystals with specific exposed facets. The mechanism of selective etching in noble metal nanostructures mainly relies on the different reactivity of metal components and the distinct surface energy of multimetallic nanostructures. Recently, phase engineering of nanomaterials (PEN) offers new opportunities for the preparation of unique heterostructures, including heterophase nanostructures. However, the synthesis of hollow multimetallic nanostructures based on crystal‐phase‐selective etching has been rarely studied. Here, a crystal‐phase‐selective etching method is reported to selectively etch the unconventional 4H and 2H phases in the heterophase Au nanostructures. Due to the coating of Pt‐based alloy and the crystal‐phase‐selective etching of 4H‐Au in 4H/face‐centered cubic (fcc) Au nanowires, the well‐defined ladder‐like Au@PtAg nanoframes are prepared. In addition, the 2H‐Au in the fcc‐2H‐fcc Au nanorods and 2H/fcc Au nanosheets can also be selectively etched using the same method. As a proof‐of‐concept application, the ladder‐like Au@PtAg nanoframes are used for the electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in acidic media, showing excellent performance that is comparable to the commercial Pt/C catalyst.
Embedding Bioprinting of Low Viscous, Photopolymerizable Blood‐Based Bioinks in a Crystal Self‐Healing Transparent Supporting Bath
Authors: Caiado Decarli Monize , Ferreira Helena P. , Sobreiro‐Almeida Rita , Teixeira Filipa C. , Correia Tiago R. , Babilotte Joanna , Olijve Jos , Custódio Catarina A. , Gonçalves Inês C. , Mota Carlos , Mano João F. , Moroni Lorenzo
Published: July 2024

Protein‐based hydrogels have great potential to be used as bioinks for biofabrication‐driven tissue regeneration strategies due to their innate bioactivity. Nevertheless, their use as bioinks in conventional 3D bioprinting is impaired due to their intrinsic low viscosity. Using embedding bioprinting, a liquid bioink is printed within a support that physically holds the patterned filament. Inspired by the recognized microencapsulation technique complex coacervation, crystal self‐healing embedding bioprinting (CLADDING) is introduced based on a highly transparent crystal supporting bath. The suitability of distinct classes of gelatins is evaluated (i.e., molecular weight distribution, isoelectric point, and ionic content), as well as the formation of gelatin‐gum arabic microparticles as a function of pH, temperature, solvent, and mass ratios. Characterizing and controlling this parametric window resulted in high yields of support bath with ideal self‐healing properties for interaction with protein‐based bioinks. This support bath achieved transparency, which boosted light permeation within the bath. Bioprinted constructs fully composed of platelet lysates encapsulating a co‐culture of human mesenchymal stromal cells and endothelial cells are obtained, demonstrating a high‐dense cellular network with excellent cell viability and stability over a month. CLADDING broadens the spectrum of photocrosslinkable materials with extremely low viscosity that can now be bioprinted with sensitive cells without any additional support.
In support of a broad concept of Paepalanthus (Eriocaulaceae)
Authors: Stützel Thomas , Trovó Marcelo , Echternacht Lívia , Coan Alessandra Ike , de Lima Silva Arthur , Watanabe Maurício Takashi Coutinho , Hensold Nancy
Published: July 2024

We here evaluate the conflicting recent splitter and lumper strategies concerning the generic classification system of the Eriocaulaceae, and whether Paepalanthus s.str. and its proposed segregate genera are morphologically recognizable. To this end, we examine evidence from inflorescence branching patterns, seed coat, and phylogeny in detail, and contrast circumscriptions of genera with the available data. We also indicate possible consequences of the proposed system for herbarium curators, keepers and users of large databases, and generalist users of identification keys. We argue that the morphological circumscriptions of Paepalanthus s.str. and of most of the other 11 segregate genera lack coherence. The majority of characters used as potential synapomorphies or in diagnoses are not sufficient to support the genera because they conflict with or do not represent the morphology of all the included species. The information regarding inflorescence branching patterns and seed coat are interpreted ambiguously or represent preliminary results, and some characters are known for only a limited number of species. Inflorescences are difficult to interpret in herbarium specimens, and the seed coat mostly requires SEM analysis for proper visualization, thus hindering identification. On the other hand, Paepalanthus s.l. can be identified by a combination of floral characters, as can the remaining genera of the family. We therefore endorse the recognition of Paepalanthus s.l. as a single, nomenclaturally stable, and monophyletic entity. This is the best‐fitting solution to reflect both evolutionary and morphological aspects of this recently diversified lineage. Finally, we provide a new identification key for the 7 genera of the Eriocaulaceae, characterizing Paepalanthus s.l. by floral characters that can be observed in any flowering specimen.
A double copy from twisted (co)homology at genus one
Authors: Bhardwaj Rishabh , Pokraka Andrzej , Ren Lecheng , Rodriguez Carlos
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We study the twisted (co)homology of a family of genus-one integrals — the so called Riemann-Wirtinger integrals. These integrals are closely related to one-loop string amplitudes in chiral splitting where one leaves the loop-momentum, modulus and all but one puncture un-integrated. While not actual one-loop string integrals, they share many properties and are simple enough that the associated twisted (co)homologies have been completely characterized [1]. Using intersection numbers — an inner product on the vector space of allowed differential forms — we derive the Gauss-Manin connection for two bases of the twisted cohomology providing an independent check of [2]. We also use the intersection index — an inner product on the vector space of allowed contours — to derive a double-copy formula for the closed-string analogues of Riemann-Wirtinger integrals (one-dimensional integrals over the torus). Similar to the celebrated KLT formula between open- and closed-string tree-level amplitudes, these intersection indices form a genus-one KLT-like kernel defining bilinears in meromorphic Riemann-Wirtinger integrals that are equal to their complex counterparts.
Suppression of diffraction in deep-inelastic scattering on nuclei and dynamical mechanism of leading twist nuclear shadowing
Authors: Guzey V. , Strikman M.
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Using the leading twist approach (LTA) to nuclear shadowing, we calculate the ratios of diffractive and usual parton distributions for a heavy nucleus (Pb) and the proton, $$ {R}_{A/p}=\left({f}_{i/A}^{D(3)}/{f}_{i/A}\right)/\left({f}_{i/p}^{D(3)}/{f}_{i/p}\right) $$

R

A
/
p

=

f

i
/
A

D

3

/

f

i
/
A

/

f

i
/
p

D

3

/

f

i
/
p

, for coherent and summed (coherent plus quasi-elastic) nuclear deep-inelastic scattering. We find that RA/p ≈ 0.5 − 1 for quarks as well as for the ratio of the diffractive and total cross sections $$ {\left[\left({d\sigma}_{\textrm{diff}}/{d M}_X^2\right)/{\sigma}_{\textrm{tot}}\right]}_{eA}/{\left[\left({d\sigma}_{\textrm{diff}}/{d M}_X^2\right)/{\sigma}_{\textrm{tot}}\right]}_{ep} $$

dσ
diff

/

dM
X
2

/

σ
tot

eA

/

dσ
diff

/

dM
X
2

/

σ
tot

ep

and RA/p ≈ 0.5 − 1.3 for gluons in a broad range of x, including the kinematics of the Electron-Ion Collider, which reaffirms the difference from the nuclear enhancement of RA/p predicted in the gluon saturation framework. We demonstrate that the magnitude of RA/p is controlled by the cross section of the interaction of hadronic fluctuations of the virtual photon with target nucleons, which explains an enhancement of RA/p in the color dipole model and its suppression in LTA. We argue that the black disk limit corresponds to RA/p = 1 and $$ {R}_{A/p}^{\textrm{coh}} $$

R

A
/
p

coh

= 0.86 for the summed and coherent scattering, respectively. Relying on an intuitive definition of the saturation scale, we show that the ratio of the saturation scales of a heavy nucleus and proton $$ {Q}_{sA}^2(b)/{Q}_{sp}^2(b)\approx 1 $$

Q
sA
2

b

/

Q
sp
2

b

≈
1
at small impact parameters b due to the strong leading twist nuclear shadowing and diluteness of the nuclear density.
Investigating two-dimensional adjoint QCD on the lattice
Authors: Bergner Georg , Piemonte Stefano , Ünsal Mithat
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We present our investigations of SU(N) adjoint QCD in two dimensions with one Majorana fermion on the lattice. We determine the relevant parameter range for the simulations with Wilson fermions and present results for Polyakov loop, chiral condensate, and string tension. In the theory with massive fermions, all observables we checked show qualitative agreement between numerical lattice data and theory, while the massless limit is more subtle since chiral and non-invertible symmetry of the continuum theory are explicitly broken by lattice regularization. In thermal compactification, we observe N perturbative vacua for the holonomy potential at high-T with instanton events connecting them, and a unique vacuum at low-T. At finite-N, this is a cross-over and it turns to a phase transition at large-N thermodynamic limit. In circle compactification with periodic boundary conditions, we observe a unique center-symmetric minimum at any radius. In continuum, the instantons in the thermal case carry zero modes (for even N) and indeed, in the lattice simulations, we observe that chiral condensate is dominated by instanton centers, where zero modes are localized. We present lattice results on the issue of confinement vs. screening in the theory and comment on the roles of chiral symmetry and non-invertible symmetry.
Fusion category symmetry. Part II. Categoriosities at c = 1 and beyond
Authors: Thorngren Ryan , Wang Yifan
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We study generalized symmetries of quantum field theories in 1+1D generated by topological defect lines with no inverse. This paper follows our companion paper on gapped phases and anomalies associated with these symmetries. In the present work we focus on identifying fusion category symmetries, using both specialized 1+1D methods such as the modular bootstrap and (rational) conformal field theory (CFT), as well as general methods based on gauging finite symmetries, that extend to all dimensions. We apply these methods to c = 1 CFTs and uncover a rich structure. We find that even those c = 1 CFTs with only finite group-like symmetries can have continuous fusion category symmetries, and prove a Noether theorem that relates such symmetries in general to non-local conserved currents. We also use these symmetries to derive new constraints on RG flows between 1+1D CFTs.
Shock waves, black hole interiors and holographic RG flows
Authors: Cáceres Elena , Patra Ayan K. , Pedraza Juan F.
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We study holographic renormalization group (RG) flows perturbed by a shock wave in dimensions d ≥ 2. The flows are obtained by deforming a holographic conformal field theory with a relevant operator, altering the interior geometry from AdS-Schwarzschild to a more general Kasner universe near the spacelike singularity. We introduce null matter in the form of a shock wave into this geometry and scrutinize its impact on the near-horizon and interior dynamics of the black hole. Using out-of-time-order correlators, we find that the scrambling time increases as we increase the strength of the deformation, whereas the butterfly velocity displays a non-monotonic behavior. We examine other observables that are more sensitive to the black hole interior, such as the thermal a-function and the entanglement velocity. Notably, the a-function experiences a discontinuous jump across the shock wave, signaling an instantaneous loss of degrees of freedom due to the infalling matter. This jump is interpreted as a ‘cosmological time skip’ which arises from an infinitely boosted length contraction. The entanglement velocity exhibits similar dependence to the butterfly velocity as we vary the strength of the deformation. Lastly, we extend our analyses to a model where the interior geometry undergoes an infinite sequence of bouncing Kasner epochs.
Gauged Q-ball dark matter through a cosmological first-order phase transition
Authors: Jiang Siyu , Huang Fa Peng , Ko Pyungwon
Published: July 2024

Abstract

As a new type of dynamical dark matter mechanism, we discuss the stability of the gauged Q-ball dark matter and its production mechanism through a cosmological first-order phase transition. This work delves into the study of gauged Q-ball dark matter generated during the cosmic phase transition. We demonstrate detailed discussions on the stability of gauged Q-balls to rigorously constrain their charge and mass ranges. Additionally, employing analytic approximations and the mapping method, we provide qualitative insights into gauged Q-balls. We establish an upper limit on the gauge coupling constant and give the relic density of stable gauged Q-ball dark matter formed during a first-order phase transition. Furthermore, we discuss potential observational signatures or constraints of gauged Q-ball dark matter, including astronomical observations and gravitational wave signals.
Improving modular bootstrap bounds with integrality
Authors: Fitzpatrick A. Liam , Li Wei
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We propose methods that efficiently impose integrality — i.e., the condition that the coefficients of characters in the partition function must be integers — into numerical modular bootstrap. We demonstrate the method with a number of examples where it can be used to strengthen modular bootstrap results. First, we show that, with a mild extra assumption, imposing integrality improves the bound on the maximal allowed gap in dimensions of operators in theories with a U(1)c symmetry at c = 3, and reduces it to the value saturated by the SU(4)1 WZW model point of c = 3 Narain lattices moduli space. Second, we show that our method can be used to eliminate all but a discrete set of points saturating the bound from previous Virasoro modular bootstrap results. Finally, when central charge is close to 1, we can slightly improve the upper bound on the scaling dimension gap.
In vivo photocontrol of orexin receptors with a nanomolar light-regulated analogue of orexin-B
Authors: Prischich Davia , Sortino Rosalba , Gomila-Juaneda Alexandre , Matera Carlo , Guardiola Salvador , Nepomuceno Diane , Varese Monica , Bonaventure Pascal , de Lecea Luis , Giralt Ernest , Gorostiza Pau
Published: July 2024

Orexinergic neurons are critically involved in regulating arousal, wakefulness, and appetite. Their dysfunction has been associated with sleeping disorders, and non-peptide drugs are currently being developed to treat insomnia and narcolepsy. Yet, no light-regulated agents are available to reversibly control their activity. To meet this need, a photoswitchable peptide analogue of the endogenous neuroexcitatory peptide orexin-B was designed, synthesized, and tested in vitro and in vivo. This compound – photorexin – is the first photo-reversible ligand reported for orexin receptors. It allows dynamic control of activity in vitro (including almost the same efficacy as orexin-B, high nanomolar potency, and subtype selectivity to human OX2 receptors) and in vivo in zebrafish larvae by direct application in water. Photorexin induces dose- and light-dependent changes in locomotion and a reduction in the successive induction reflex that is associated with sleep behavior. Molecular dynamics calculations indicate that trans and cis photorexin adopt similar bent conformations and that the only discriminant between their structures and activities is the positioning of the N-terminus. This, in the case of the more active trans isomer, points towards the OX2 N-terminus and extra-cellular loop 2, a region of the receptor known to be involved in ligand binding and recognition consistent with a “message-address” system. Thus, our approach could be extended to several important families of endogenous peptides, such as endothelins, nociceptin, and dynorphins among others, that bind to their cognate receptors through a similar mechanism: a “message” domain involved in receptor activation and signal transduction, and an “address” sequence for receptor occupation and improved binding affinity.
Clinical outcomes of total hip arthroplasty after femoral neck fractures vs. osteoarthritis at one year follow up—A comparative, retrospective study
Authors: Obada Bogdan , Georgeanu Vlad , Iliescu Madalina , Popescu Andrei , Petcu Lucian , Costea Dan Ovidiu
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The objective of the study is to determine if there was a difference in medical complications and in-hospital mortality among the patients who underwent THA for femoral neck fracture relative to same procedure for elective patients with coxarthrosis.

Methods

We compared characteristics and short-term outcomes during the rehabilitative postsurgical period. We included all patients older than 45 years who underwent THA for primary/secondary hip arthritis and displaced femoral neck fractures type Garden III and IV. Clinical examination, functional outcome and radiographic evaluation were performed during follow-up. Patients were evaluated at the following time points: preoperatively, postoperatively at three days, six weeks, 12 weeks and one year and we registered Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) pain score, Harris Hip Score (HHS), the Western Ontario McMaster Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), internal and external rotation of the hip and operated limb length compared with the opposite.

Results

There is no significant statistically differences between the two groups regarding the preoperative comorbidities. The frequencies of patients experiencing in-hospital and 30-day postoperative complications were generally low and same in groups we studied. The mean quantity of surgical blood loos during the operation was significantly higher in the hip fracture group compared with elective patient group with OA (340.09 ± 86.03 vs 309.43 ± 102.52). With respect to postoperative recovery the patients with THA after FNF were mobilized by active walking a little bit faster as the patient with OA (2.77 ± 1.18 days vs 3.1 ± 1.14 days). The average inpatient hospital length of stay after THA for OA was 11.07 days compared to 13.41 days following a THA for FNF.

Conclusion

Our study showed that THA for treatment of an acute fracture of the femoral neck in an elderly patient can provide results comparable to those of patients who received THA for OA and we found that the results are similar.
Instability processes in short and long laminar separation bubbles
Authors: Dellacasagrande Matteo , Barsi Dario , Lengani Davide , Simoni Daniele
Published: July 2024

This work studies the link between the bursting process of a flat plate laminar separation bubble and the modification of the stability characteristics of the separated shear layer due to changes in the flow parameters. A vast population of short and long laminar separation bubbles was surveyed by means of Particle Image Velocimetry instrumentation for different values of the Reynolds number, the free-stream turbulence intensity and the streamwise pressure gradient. A fine-step variation of the free-stream velocity allowed us to determine the critical Reynolds number at which bursting occurs. Successively, the most amplified wavelength and frequency were computed for both the short and the long bubble regimes. Once scaled with the boundary layer displacement thickness at separation, the average wavenumber of the vortices shed by the bubble was found to be constant and equal to about 0.9 in the short regime, accordingly to previous studies. Differently, this quantity reduces to about 0.6 in the long bubble regime, and a marked change in the Strouhal number of vortex shedding occurs. Also, the temporal growth of spanwise vortices was seen to occur in the recirculation region of long type bubbles, being linked to an absolute instability of disturbances. The currently acquired data demonstrate the existing link between the bursting process of a laminar separation bubble and a marked change in the instability mechanisms driving the transition process of the boundary layer. A simplified correlation for the prediction of bursting is provided in this work as a function of the free-stream turbulence intensity and the streamwise pressure gradient.
Gastrointestinal functions after laparoscopic right colectomy with intracorporeal anastomosis: a pilot randomized clinical trial on effects of abdominal drain, prolonged antibiotic prophylaxis, and D3 lymphadenectomy with complete mesocolic excision
Authors: Sica Giuseppe S. , Siragusa Leandro , Pirozzi Brunella Maria , Sorge Roberto , Baldini Giorgia , Fiorani Cristina , Guida Andrea Martina , Bellato Vittoria , Franceschilli Marzia
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Routine use of abdominal drain or prolonged antibiotic prophylaxis is no longer part of current clinical practice in colorectal surgery. Nevertheless, in patients undergoing laparoscopic right hemicolectomy with intracorporeal anastomosis (ICA), it may reduce perioperative abdominal contamination. Furthermore, in cancer patients, prolonged surgery with extensive dissection such as central vascular ligation and complete mesocolon excision with D3 lymphadenectomy (altogether radical right colectomy RRC) is called responsible for affecting postoperative ileus. The aim was to evaluate postoperative resumption of gastrointestinal functions in patients undergoing right hemicolectomy for cancer with ICA and standard D2 dissection or RRC, with or without abdominal drain and prolonged antibiotic prophylaxis.

Methods

Monocentric factorial parallel arm randomized pilot trial including all consecutive patients undergoing laparoscopic right hemicolectomy and ICA for cancer, in 20 months. Patients were randomized on a 1:1:1 ratio to receive abdominal drain, prolonged antibiotic prophylaxis or neither (I level), and 1:1 to receive RRC or D2 colectomy (II level). Patients were not blinded. The primary aim was the resumption of gastrointestinal functions (time to first gas and stool, time to tolerated fluids and food). Secondary aims were length of stay and complications’ rate. ClinicalTrials.gov no. NCT04977882.

Results

Fifty-seven patients were screened; according to sample size, 36 were randomized, 12 for each arm for postoperative management, and 18 for each arm according to surgical techniques. A difference in time to solid diet favored the group without drain or antibiotic independently from standard or RRC. Furthermore, when patients were divided with respect to surgical technique and into matched cohorts, no differences were seen for primary and secondary outcomes.

Conclusion

Abdominal drainage and prolonged antibiotic prophylaxis in patients undergoing right hemicolectomy for cancer with ICA seem to negatively affect the resumption of a solid diet after laparoscopic right hemicolectomy with ICA for cancer. RRC does not seem to influence gastrointestinal function recovery.
Developing and testing personalised nutrition feedback for more sustainable healthy diets: the MyPlanetDiet randomised controlled trial protocol
Authors: Davies Katie P. , Gibney Eileen R. , Leonard Ursula M. , Lindberg Leona , Woodside Jayne V. , Kiely Mairead E. , Nugent Anne P. , Arranz Elena , Conway Marie C. , McCarthy Sinead N. , O’Sullivan Aifric M.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Agriculture and food production contribute to climate change. There is mounting pressure to transition to diets with less environmental impact while maintaining nutritional adequacy. MyPlanetDiet aimed to reduce diet-related greenhouse gas emissions (GHGE) in a safe, nutritionally adequate, and acceptable manner. This paper describes the trial protocol, development, and testing of personalised nutrition feedback in the MyPlanetDiet randomised controlled trial (RCT).

Methods

MyPlanetDiet was a 12-week RCT that provided standardised personalised nutrition feedback to participants based on new sustainable healthy eating guidelines (intervention) or existing healthy eating guidelines (control) using decision trees and corresponding feedback messages. To test the personalised nutrition feedback, we modelled a sample of 20 of the MyPlanetDiet participants baseline diets. Diets were modelled to adhere to control and intervention decision trees and feedback messages. Modelled nutrient intakes and environmental metrics were compared using repeated measure one-way analysis of covariance.

Results

Intervention diets had significantly lower (p < 0.001) diet-related GHGE per 2500 kilocalories (kcal) (4.7 kg CO2-eq) relative to control (6.6 kg CO2-eq) and baseline (7.1 kg CO2-eq). Modelled control and intervention diets had higher mean daily intakes of macronutrients (carbohydrates, fibre, and protein) and micronutrients (calcium, iron, zinc, and iodine). Modelled control and intervention diets had lower percent energy from fat and saturated fat relative to baseline.

Conclusions

Adherence to the MyPlanetDiet personalised nutrition feedback would be expected to lead to better nutrient intakes and reduced diet-related GHGE. The MyPlanetDiet RCT will test the effectiveness and safety of personalised feedback for a more sustainable diet.

Trial registration number and date of registration:

Clinical trials registration number: NCT05253547, 23 February 2022
Volatile systematics in terrestrial igneous apatite: from microanalysis to decoding magmatic processes
Authors: Li Wei-Ran , Bernard Olivier , Utami Sri Budhi , Phua Marcus
Published: July 2024

Apatite has been recognized as a robust tool for the study of magmatic volatiles in terrestrial and extraterrestrial systems due to its ability to incorporate various volatile components and its common occurrence in igneous rocks. Most previous studies have utilized apatite to study individual magmatic systems or regions. However, volatile systematics in terrestrial magmatic apatite formed under different geological environments has been poorly understood. In this study, we filtered a large compilation of data for apatite in terrestrial igneous rocks (n > 20,000), categorized the data according to tectonic settings, rock types, and bulk-rock compositions, and conducted statistical analyses of the F–Cl–OH–S–CO2 contents (~ 11,000 data for halogen and less for other volatiles). We find that apatite from volcanic arcs preserves a high Cl signature in comparison to other tectonic settings and the median Cl contents differ between arcs. Apatite in various types and compositions of igneous rocks shows overlapping F–Cl–OH compositions and features in some rock groups. Specifically, apatite in kimberlite is characterized as Cl-poor, whereas apatite in plutonic rocks can contain higher F and lower Cl contents than the volcanic counterparts. Calculation using existing partitioning models indicates that apatite with a high OH (or F) content does not necessarily indicate a H2O-rich (or H2O-poor) liquid because it could be a result of high (or low) magma temperature. Our work may provide a new perspective on the use of apatite to investigate volatile behavior in magma genesis and evolution across tectonic settings, volatile recycling at subduction zones, and the volcanic-plutonic connection.
Guideline “Parkinson’s disease” of the German Society of Neurology (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Neurologie): concepts of care
Authors: Tönges Lars , Buhmann Carsten , Eggers Carsten , Lorenzl Stefan , Warnecke Tobias ,   for the German Parkinson Guideline Group, Bähr Mathias , Becktepe Jos , Berg Daniela , Brockmann Kathrin , Ceballos-Baumann Andrés , Claßen Joseph , Deuschl Cornelius , Deuschl Günther , Dodel Richard , Ebersbach Georg , Eimeren Thilo , Fanciulli Alessandra , Fimm Bruno , Folkerts Ann-Kristin , Gausepohl Madeleine , Hasan Alkomiet , Hermann Wiebke , Hilker-Roggendorf Rüdiger , Höglinger Günter , Höllerhage Matthias , Hopfner Franziska , Jost Wolfgang , Kalbe Elke , Kassubek Jan , Klebe Stephan , Klein Christine , Klietz Martin , Köglsperger Thomas , Kühn Andrea , Krack Paul , Krismer Florian , Kuhlenbäumer Gregor , Levin Johannes , Liepelt-Scarfone Inga , Lingor Paul , Loewenbrück Kai , Löhle Matthias , Maaß Sylvia , Maetzler Walter , Menzel Regina , Meyer Philipp T , Mollenhauer Brit , Neumann Manuela , Odin Per , Outeiro Tiago , Pötter-Nerger Monika , Reese René , Reetz Kathrin , Rieß Olaf , Ruf Viktoria , Schneider Anja , Schrader Christoph , Schnitzler Alfons , Seppi Klaus , Sixel-Döring Friederike , Storch Alexander , Trenkwalder Claudia , Eimeren Thilo , Walter Uwe , Wächter Tobias , Wegner Florian , Winkler Christian , Witt Karsten , Woitalla Dirk , Zeuner Kirsten
Published: July 2024

Introduction

In 2023, the German Society of Neurology published a new guideline on Parkinson’s disease. An important section dealt with PD care concepts, which represent a particularly dynamic field of PD research, including their implementation in clinical practice. Parkinson’s disease is the second most common age-associated neurodegenerative disease. Current estimates of the number of cases in the population describe a significant increase in prevalence in Germany by 2030 with higher proportions in rural areas, which also have a lack of sufficient PD care resources.

Recommendations

In comparison with other international guidelines, which have so far mentioned palliative care and Parkinson’s nurses in particular, the German S2k guideline expands the recommended concepts of PD care to include PD day clinics, inpatient complex treatment, and PD networks.

Conclusion

Concepts of PD care guidelines are necessary because of the complex and rapidly evolving field of PD care provision. If applied appropriately, the potential for optimized care can be exploited and both the patient burden and the economic burden can be reduced. Given that modern care concepts have so far only been applied in a few regions, it is often impossible to generate broad evidence-based data, so that the evaluation of PD care concepts is partly dependent on expert opinion.
The impact of mechanical stress on anatomy, morphology, and gene expression in Urtica dioica L.
Authors: Zajączkowska Urszula , Dmitruk Dominika , Sekulska-Nalewajko Joanna , Gocławski Jarosław , Dołkin-Lewko Alicja , Łotocka Barbara
Published: July 2024

Main conclusion

Mechanical stress induces distinct anatomical, molecular, and morphological changes in Urtica dioica, affecting trichome development, gene expression, and leaf morphology under controlled conditions

The experiments were performed on common nettle, a widely known plant characterized by high variability of leaf morphology and responsiveness to mechanical touch. A specially constructed experimental device was used to study the impact of mechanical stress on Urtica dioica plants under strictly controlled parameters of the mechanical stimulus (touching) and environment in the growth chamber. The general anatomical structure of the plants that were touched was similar to that of control plants, but the shape of the internodes' cross section was different. Stress-treated plants showed a distinct four-ribbed structure. However, as the internodes progressed, the shape gradually approached a rectangular form. The epidermis of control plants included stinging, glandular and simple setulose trichomes, but plants that were touched had no stinging trichomes, and setulose trichomes accumulated more callose. Cell wall lignification occurred in the older internodes of the control plants compared to stress-treated ones. Gene analysis revealed upregulation of the expression of the UdTCH1 gene in touched plants compared to control plants. Conversely, the expression of UdERF4 and UdTCH4 was downregulated in stressed plants. These data indicate that the nettle's response to mechanical stress reaches the level of regulatory networks of gene expression. Image analysis revealed reduced leaf area, increased asymmetry and altered contours in touched leaves, especially in advanced growth stages, compared to control plants. Our results indicate that mechanical stress triggers various anatomical, molecular, and morphological changes in nettle; however, further interdisciplinary research is needed to better understand the underlying physiological mechanisms.
Effects of different types of leisure activities on working memory across the adult lifespan
Authors: Cansino Selene , Torres-Trejo Frine , Estrada-Manilla Cinthya , Ruiz-Velasco Silvia
Published: July 2024

The aim of the present study was to contrast the potential influence of five independent types of leisure activities (physical, mental, social, cultural, and passive) on working memory in a lifespan sample and in specific stages of adulthood (young, middle-aged, and older adults). A sample of 1652 healthy adults between 21 and 80 years of age participated in the study. Leisure activities were assessed through a lifestyle questionnaire created for the study. Working memory was measured in the verbal and spatial domains using a computerized n-back task that allowed us to reliably measure discrimination and reaction times. Across adulthood, mental (computer use and hobbies) and social leisure activities predicted greater verbal and spatial working memory discrimination; mental (reading) and social activities predicted faster verbal working memory; and mental (computer use) and physical activities predicted faster spatial working memory. In young adults, mental (computer use) and social activities were associated with greater verbal and spatial working memory performance. In middle-aged adults, physical and mental activities (computer use) were associated with greater working memory performance. In older adults, physical, mental (hobbies), and social activities were associated with greater working memory performance. Leisure activities can enhance working memory discrimination and speed independent of individuals’ age.
Integrating brain function and structure in the study of the human attentional networks: a functionnectome study
Authors: Martín-Signes Mar , Paz-Alonso Pedro M. , Thiebaut de Schotten Michel , Chica Ana B.
Published: July 2024

Attention is a heterogeneous function theoretically divided into different systems. While functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has extensively characterized their functioning, the role of white matter in cognitive function has gained recent interest due to diffusion-weighted imaging advancements. However, most evidence relies on correlations between white matter properties and behavioral or cognitive measures. This study used a new method that combines the signal from distant voxels of fMRI images using the probability of structural connection given by high-resolution normative tractography. We analyzed three fMRI datasets with a visual perceptual task and three attentional manipulations: phasic alerting, spatial orienting, and executive attention. The phasic alerting network engaged temporal areas and their communication with frontal and parietal regions, with left hemisphere dominance. The orienting network involved bilateral fronto-parietal and midline regions communicating by association tracts and interhemispheric fibers. The executive attention network engaged a broad set of brain regions and white matter tracts connecting them, with a particular involvement of frontal areas and their connections with the rest of the brain. These results partially confirm and extend previous knowledge on the neural substrates of the attentional system, offering a more comprehensive understanding through the integration of structure and function.
UBQLN4 promotes the proliferation and invasion of non-small cell lung cancer cell by regulating PI3K/AKT pathway
Authors: He Li , Chen Heng , Ruan Bin , He Li , Luo Ming , Fu Yulun , Zou Rui
Published: July 2024

Background

Ubiquilin-4 (UBQLN4), a member of the ubiquilin family, has received limited attention in cancer research to date. Here, we investigated for the first time the functional role and mechanism of UBQLN4 in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database was employed to validate UBQLN4 as a differentially expressed gene. Expression differences of UBQLN4 in NSCLC cells and tissues were assessed using immunohistochemistry (IHC) experiment and western blotting (WB) experiment. Kaplan-Meier analysis was conducted to examine the association between UBQLN4 expression and NSCLC prognosis. Functional analyses of UBQLN4 were performed through cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), colony formation, and transwell invasion assays. The impact of UBQLN4 on tumor-associated signaling pathways was assessed using the path scan intracellular signaling array. In vivo tumorigenesis experiments were conducted to further investigate the influence of UBQLN4 on tumor formation.

Results

UBQLN4 exhibited up-regulation in both NSCLC tissues and cells. Additionally, over-expression of UBQLN4 was associated with an unfavorable prognosis in NSCLC patients. Functional loss analyses demonstrated that inhibiting UBQLN4 could suppress the proliferation and invasion of NSCLC cells in both in vitro and in vivo settings. Conversely, functional gain experiments yielded opposite results. Path scan intracellular signaling array results suggested that the role of UBQLN4 is associated with the PI3K/AKT pathway, a correlation substantiated by in vitro and in vivo tumorigenesis experiments.

Conclusion

We validated that UBQLN4 promotes proliferation and invasion of NSCLC cells by activating the PI3K/AKT pathway, thereby facilitating the progression of NSCLC. These findings underscore the potential of targeting UBQLN4 as a therapeutic strategy for NSCLC.
Single-centre real-life observational study on mortality and outcomes: decompressive craniectomy and brain death in traumatic brain injury, haemorrhage, and other cerebral diseases
Authors: Schröder Isabelle , Güresir Erdem , Vatter Hartmut , Soehle Martin
Published: July 2024

Background

Decompressive hemicraniectomy (DHC) is used after severe brain damages with elevated, refractory intracranial pressure (ICP). In a non age-restricted population, mortality rates and long-term outcomes following DHC are still unclear. This study’s objectives were to examine both, as well as to identify predictors of unfavourable outcomes.

Methods

We undertook a retrospective observational analysis of patients aged 18 years and older who underwent DHC at the University Hospital of Bonn between 2018 and 2020, due to traumatic brain injury (TBI), haemorrhage, tumours or infections. Patient outcomes were assessed by conducting telephone interviews, utilising questionnaires for modified Rankin Scale (mRS) and extended Glasgow Outcome scale (GOSE). We evaluated the health-related quality of life using the EuroQol (EQ-5D-5L) scale.

Results

A total of 144 patients with a median age of 58.5 years (range: 18 to 85 years) were evaluated. The mortality rate was 67%, with patients passing away at a median of 6.0 days (IQR [1.9–37.6]) after DHC. Favourable outcomes, as assessed by the mRS and GOSE were observed in 10.4% and 6.3% of patients, respectively. Cox regression analysis revealed a 2.0% increase in the mortality risk for every year of age (HR = 1.017; 95% CI [1.01–1.03]; p = 0.004). Uni- and bilateral fixed pupils were associated with a 1.72 (95% CI [1.03–2.87]; p = 0.037) and 3.97 (95% CI [2.44–6.46]; p < 0.001) times higher mortality risk, respectively. ROC-analysis demonstrated that age and pupillary reactivity predicted 6-month mortality with an AUC of 0.77 (95% CI [0.69–0.84]). The only parameter significantly associated with a better quality of life was younger age.

Conclusions

Following DHC, mortality remains substantial, and favourable outcomes occur rarely. Particularly in elderly patients and in the presence of clinical signs of herniation, mortality rates are notably elevated. Hence, the indication for DHC should be set critically.
Modelling the quantification of requirements technical debt
Authors: Perera Judith , Tempero Ewan , Tu Yu-Cheng , Blincoe Kelly
Published: July 2024

Requirements Technical Debt (RTD) applies the Technical Debt (TD) metaphor to capture the consequences of sub-optimal decisions made concerning Requirements. Understanding the quantification of RTD is key to its management. To facilitate this understanding, we developed a conceptual model, the Requirements Technical Debt Quantification Model (RTDQM). Our work is grounded in the literature found via a systematic mapping study and informed by prior work modeling the quantification of software code-related TD types. The key finding is that although RTD is similar to code-related TD in many aspects, it also has its own components. RTD can be incurred regardless of the presence of code-related TD. Unlike code-related TD, RTD has a feedback loop involving the user. RTD can have a cascading impact on other development activities, such as design and implementation, apart from the extra costs and efforts incurred during requirements engineering activities; this is modeled by the RTD Interest constituents in our model. The model was used to compare and analyze existing quantification approaches. It helped identify what RTD quantification concepts are discussed in the existing approaches and what concepts are supported by metrics for their quantification. The model serves as a reference for practitioners to select existing or to develop new quantification approaches to support informed decision-making for RTD management.
Late adolescent outcomes of different developmental trajectories of ADHD symptoms in a large longitudinal study
Authors: Carter Lara , Speyer Lydia , Caye Arthur , Rohde Luis , Murray Aja Louise
Published: July 2024

There exists substantial heterogeneity in the developmental trajectories of ADHD symptoms, with distinctions often made between persistent versus remittent, and early- versus late-onset. However, how these trajectories relate to late adolescent functioning and whether, in particular, later onset trajectories mark a milder subtype remains unclear. Building on earlier work that has examined early life predictors of ADHD symptom trajectories up to age 14, we applied latent class growth analysis to data from the UK Millennium Cohort Study (N = 10,262) to evaluate whether developmental trajectories of ADHD symptoms up to age 17 (from age 3) were similar to those identified up to age 14 and associated with differing levels of impairment in peer victimisation, mental health, substance use, and delinquency outcomes at age 17. Our optimal model included five trajectory groups, labelled unaffected (37.6%), mildly affected (34.8%), subclinical remitting (14.4%), adolescent onset (7.6%), and stable high (5.6%). Adolescent onset and stable high trajectories were similarly impaired across all outcomes, other than substance use. Subclinical remitting individuals were impaired on self-esteem and well-being compared to unaffected individuals. By the end of mid-adolescence, those with a later onset have similar impairments to those following an early onset/persistent trajectory. Residual impairment may remain for those on a remitting trajectory.
Simulating the Appearance of Aerial Images formed by Aerial Imaging by Retroreflection
Authors: Saito Asahi , Yue Yonghao , Koizumi Naoya
Published: July 2024

Ray tracing, combined with ideal retroreflection and mathematical simulation methods, has been used to design aerial imaging systems based on retroreflection. Although aerial images are blurred and have lower brightness than the light source, existing simulation methods do not focus on the appearance of these characteristics. In this study, we propose a computer graphics (CG)-based simulation using the ray tracing method to generate CG renditions of aerial images with reproduced luminance and blurring. CG models of three optical elements (light source, half-mirror, and retroreflector) were created on the basis of existing optical element models to simulate aerial images obtained through retroreflection in aerial imaging systems. By measuring the image formation positioning, we determined that the rendered aerial images consistently formed at a plane-symmetrical position relative to the axis of the half-mirror model, with a mean absolute error of $${0.55\,\textrm{mm}}$$

0.55

mm

. We also compared rendered and actual aerial images in terms of luminance and sharpness characteristics, and found that the mean absolute percentage error of luminance remained within $$0.0376$$

0.0376

. Furthermore, the directional dependence of blur was effectively reproduced using the retroreflector bidirectional reflectance distribution function developed in this study.
Robot remote control using virtual reality headset: studying sense of agency with subjective distance estimates
Authors: Yashin Artem S. , Lavrov Daniil S. , Melnichuk Eugeny V. , Karpov Valery V. , Zhao Darisy G. , Dubynin Ignat A.
Published: July 2024

Mobile robots have many applications in the modern world. The autonomy of robots is increasing, but critical cases like search and rescue missions must involve the possibility of human intervention for ethical reasons and safety. To achieve effective human–robot interaction, the operator needs to have a sense of agency (SoA) over the activities of the robot. One possible way to increase one's SoA in remote control could be the use of VR technology. The remote control situation has some important features, so indicators of SoA need to be reproduced there independently. In our study, participants controlled a mobile robot using either a monitor or a VR-headset as an output device. In both cases, active control was contrasted with passive observation of the robot's movement. In each trial, participants estimated the distance traveled by the robot—a putative implicit indicator of SoA. A significant difference between subjective distance estimates was found in the active and passive conditions with the monitor, but not in the active and passive conditions with VR. The effect obtained in the monitor conditions suggests that distance estimates can be used as an implicit indicator of SoA in robot remote control. We believe that the lack of difference between the active and passive conditions in VR was caused by motion sickness due to a mismatch of visual and vestibular sensory cues, leading to a weakened SoA.
Analyzing resilient attention management of expert operators using functional resonance analysis method
Authors: Yasue Naruki , Sawaragi Tetsuo
Published: July 2024

Manufacturing worksites have developed to have a socio-technical aspect with complex interactions between human operators, automated machines, and the environment. The operators must adapt to and cope with daily performance variabilities in these socio-technical systems to maintain resilient productions. However, more than conventional methods are needed to clarify the operators’ adaptive aspects that interactive factors play a critical role. This study investigates attention management in multitasking as one crucial aspect of the adaptive behavior of manual operations in actual manufacturing worksites. The framework considering the functional structure of tacit knowledge was employed for this purpose. Data from a case study focusing on multitasking in steel plate processing was utilized. First, we extracted the attention characteristics with eye movement and interview analysis regarding the proximal and distal terms of tacit knowledge. Then, we took a model constructive approach using work domain analysis (WDA) and functional resonance analysis method (FRAM). The results showed that the expert operator could maintain the systematic attention strategy even when multitasking. Furthermore, the simulation results showed that extracted experts’ attention strategy contributed to the resilient work performance. The current study confirmed that the framework based on FRAM could investigate the adaptive nature of expert skills in socio-technical systems.