bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical spectra of the Laplacian for line bundles on Calabi-Yau hypersurfaces
Authors: Ashmore A. , He Y-H. , Heyes E. , Ovrut B. A.
Published: July 2023

Abstract

We give the first numerical calculation of the spectrum of the Laplacian acting on bundle-valued forms on a Calabi-Yau three-fold. Specifically, we show how to compute the approximate eigenvalues and eigenmodes of the Dolbeault Laplacian acting on bundle-valued (p, q)-forms on Kähler manifolds. We restrict our attention to line bundles over complex projective space and Calabi-Yau hypersurfaces therein. We give three examples. For two of these, ℙ3 and a Calabi-Yau one-fold (a torus), we compare our numerics with exact results available in the literature and find complete agreement. For the third example, the Fermat quintic three-fold, there are no known analytic results, so our numerical calculations are the first of their kind. The resulting spectra pass a number of non-trivial checks that arise from Serre duality and the Hodge decomposition. The outputs of our algorithm include all the ingredients one needs to compute physical Yukawa couplings in string compactifications.
Assessing lower extremity loading during activities of daily living using continuous-scale physical functional performance 10 and wireless sensor insoles: a comparative study between younger and older adults
Authors: Häckel Sonja , Kämpf Tobias , Baur Heiner , von Aesch Arlene , Kressig Reto Werner , Stuck Andreas Ernst , Bastian Johannes Dominik
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the lower extremity loading during activities of daily living (ADLs) using the Continuous Scale of Physical Functional Performance (CS-PFP 10) test and wireless sensor insoles in healthy volunteers.

Methods

In this study, 42 participants were recruited, consisting of 21 healthy older adults (mean age 69.6 ± 4.6 years) and 21 younger healthy adults (mean age 23.6 ± 1.8 years). The performance of the subjects during ADLs was assessed using the CS-PFP 10 test, which comprised 10 tasks. The lower extremity loading was measured using wireless sensor insoles (OpenGo, Moticon, Munich, Germany) during the CS-PFP 10 test, which enabled the measurement of ground reaction forces, including the mean and maximum total forces during the stance phase, expressed in units of body weight (BW).

Results

The total CS-PFP 10 score was significantly lower in older participants compared to the younger group (mean total score of 57.1 ± 9.0 compared to 78.2 ± 5.4, respectively). No significant differences in the mean total forces were found between older and young participants. The highest maximum total forces were observed during the tasks ‘endurance walk’ (young: 1.97 ± 0.34 BW, old: 1.70 ± 0.43 BW) and ‘climbing stairs’ (young: 1.65 ± 0.36 BW, old: 1.52 ± 0.28 BW). Only in the endurance walk, older participants showed a significantly higher maximum total force (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The use of wireless sensor insoles in a laboratory setting can effectively measure the load on the lower extremities during ADLs. These findings could offer valuable insights for developing tailored recommendations for patients with partial weight-bearing restrictions.
Socio-economic risk factors and wildfire crime in Italy: a quantile panel approach
Authors: Canepa Alessandra
Published: July 2023

In this paper, we analyse the socio-economic determinants of environmental crimes such as those focused on wildfire in Italy using panel data at the regional level. We also investigate the effect of economic downturns on wildfire crime. Using the nonadditive fixed effect quantile panel regression model, it was found that socio-economic factors, such as material deprivation, play an important role in driving wildfire crime. Also, risk factors such as unemployment and income inequality were seen to affect the probability of crime in the same direction. On the other hand, a negative relationship between level of education and wildfire crime was found. The results for business cycle support the conjecture that economic downturns have a significant impact on the probability of environmental crime and that the effect is particularly binding in the southern regions where unemployment and income inequality are greater. We also found evidence of a positive correlation between organised crime and wildfire crime. Once again, the grip of organised crime appears to be stronger in the southern regions.
Tributary Inflows to a Regulated River Influence Bacterial Communities and Increase Bacterial Carbon Assimilation
Authors: O’Brien Lauren , Siboni Nachshon , Seymour Justin R. , Balzer Matthew , Mitrovic Simon
Published: July 2023

Inflows from unregulated tributaries change the physical, chemical, and biotic conditions in receiving regulated rivers, impacting microbial community structure and metabolic function. Understanding how tributary inflows affect bacterial carbon production (BCP) is integral to understanding energy transfer in riverine ecosystems. To investigate the role of tributary inflows on bacterial community composition and BCP, a ~90th percentile natural flow event was sampled over 5 days along the Lachlan River and its tributaries within the Murray-Darling Basin of eastern Australia. Increased tributary inflows after rainfall corresponded with a significantly different and more diverse bacterial community in the regulated mainstem. The major contributor to this difference was an increase in relative abundance of bacterial groups with a potential metabolic preference for humic substances (Burkholderiaceae Polynucleobacter, Alcaligenaceae GKS98 freshwater group, Saccharimonadia) and a significant decrease in Spirosomaceae Pseudarcicella, known to metabolise algal exudates. Increases in orthophosphate and river discharge explained 31% of community change, suggesting a combination of resource delivery and microbial community coalescence as major drivers. BCP initially decreased significantly with tributary inflows, but the total load of carbon assimilated by bacteria increased by up to 20 times with flow due to increased water volume. The significant drivers of BCP were dissolved organic carbon, water temperature, and conductivity. Notably, BCP was not correlated with bacterial diversity or community composition. Tributary inflows were shown to alter mainstem bacterial community structure and metabolic function to take advantage of fresh terrestrial dissolved organic material, resulting in substantial changes to riverine carbon assimilation over small times scales.
Exploring Prokaryotic Communities in the Guts and Mucus of Nudibranchs, and Their Similarity to Sediment and Seawater Microbiomes
Authors: Stuij Tamara , Cleary Daniel F. R. , Polónia Ana R. M. , Putchakarn Sumaitt , Pires Ana C. C. , Gomes Newton C. M. , de Voogd Nicole J.
Published: July 2023

In the present study, we compared mucus and gut-associated prokaryotic communities from seven nudibranch species with sediment and seawater from Thai coral reefs using high-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The nudibranch species were identified as Doriprismatica atromarginata (family Chromodorididae), Jorunna funebris (family Discodorididae), Phyllidiella nigra, Phyllidiella pustulosa, Phyllidia carlsonhoffi, Phyllidia elegans, and Phyllidia picta (all family Phyllidiidae). The most abundant bacterial phyla in the dataset were Proteobacteria, Tenericutes, Chloroflexi, Thaumarchaeota, and Cyanobacteria. Mucus and gut-associated communities differed from one another and from sediment and seawater communities. Host phylogeny was, furthermore, a significant predictor of differences in mucus and gut-associated prokaryotic community composition. With respect to higher taxon abundance, the order Rhizobiales (Proteobacteria) was more abundant in Phyllidia species (mucus and gut), whereas the order Mycoplasmatales (Tenericutes) was more abundant in D. atromarginata and J. funebris. Mucus samples were, furthermore, associated with greater abundances of certain phyla including Chloroflexi, Poribacteria, and Gemmatimonadetes, taxa considered to be indicators for high microbial abundance (HMA) sponge species. Overall, our results indicated that nudibranch microbiomes consisted of a number of abundant prokaryotic members with high sequence similarities to organisms previously detected in sponges.
Amino mapping: possibility to visualize amino-N compounds in the rhizosphere of Zea Mays L.
Authors: Khosrozadeh Sajedeh , Guber Andrey , Nourbakhsh Farshid , Khalili Banafshe , Blagodatskaya Evgenia
Published: July 2023

Understanding N uptake by plants, the N cycle, and their relationship to soil heterogeneity has generated a great deal of interest in the distribution of amino-N compounds in soil. Visualization of the spatial distribution of amino-N in soil can provide insights into the role of labile N in plant-microbial mechanisms of N acquisition and plant N uptake, but until now, it has remained technically challenging. Here, we describe a novel technique to visualize the amino-N distribution at the root-soil interface. The technique is based on time-lapse amino mapping (TLAM) using membranes saturated with the fluorogenic OPAME reagent (O-phthalaldehyde and β-mercaptoethanol). OPAME in the membrane reacts with organic compounds containing a NH2 functional group at the membrane-soil interface, generating a fluorescent product visible under UV light and detectable by a digital camera. The TLAM amino-mapping technique was applied to visualize and quantify the concentration of amino-N compounds in the rhizosphere of maize (Zea Mays L.). A ten times greater amino-N concentration was detected in the rhizosphere compared to non-rhizosphere soil. The high content of amino-N was mainly associated with the root tips and was 3 times larger than the average amino-N content at seminal roots. The amino-N rhizosphere was 2 times broader around the root tips than around other parts of the roots. We concluded that TLAM is a promising approach for monitoring the fate of labile N in soils. However, the technique needs to be standardized for different soil types, plant species, and climate conditions to allow wider application.
A short-term intervention of ingesting iron along with methionine and threonine leads to a higher hemoglobin level than that with iron alone in young healthy women: a randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, comparative study
Authors: Tateishi Yuko , Toyoda Sakiko , Murakami Hitoshi , Uchida Ryo , Ichikawa Reiko , Kikuchi Takuya , Sato Wataru , Suzuki Katsuya
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Enhancing iron absorption and utilization is important for amelioration iron status faster and thereby, for improving quality of life. Dietary protein and amino acids, including methionine and threonine, have been reported to facilitate the absorption and utilization of dietary iron. Here, we investigated the effect of combined ingestion of methionine, threonine, and iron on the improvement of iron status during a short-term intervention, by comparing that with iron ingestion alone in healthy young women.

Methods

This was a randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, comparative study with 45 participants (aged 20–39) randomly assigned to three groups (n = 15 each): one group was administered 200 mg methionine, 400 mg threonine, and 6 mg iron once daily (FEMT); another ingested 6 mg iron alone (FE); and the third group ingested a placebo (PCG). Blood samples and dietary nutrient data were collected before the intervention (week 0) and after 2, 4, and 6 weeks. Serum iron, hemoglobin, transferrin, and ferritin levels were measured.

Results

Blood hemoglobin levels were significantly higher in the FEMT than in the FE group (P < 0.05) at week 4. Serum iron, transferrin, and ferritin levels were not changed across groups. In addition, our analyses showed that the observed increase in hemoglobin levels was affected by the intervention rather than changes in dietary nutrient intake.

Conclusions

Ingestion of methionine and threonine with low doses of iron leads to a higher hemoglobin levels than that with iron alone in a short period of 4 weeks.

Trial registration

University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trial Registry (UMIN000046621).
Orthogeriatric care—outcome of different fragility fractures
Authors: Pankratz Carlos , Risch Annika , Oxen Jacob , Cintean Raffael , Boehringer Alexander , Gebhard Florian , Schuetze Konrad
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Fragility fractures (FF) are associated with increased morbidity and mortality and reflect a dramatic turning point in the life of older adults. The scientific discourse is dominated by proximal femoral fractures, but FF affect multiple parts of the body and often precede hip fractures. Orthogeriatric co-management has multiple shown to improve patient’s outcome. We hypothesize that all geriatric patients with FF benefit from orthogeriatric co-management.

Materials and methods

We retrospectively evaluated all patients over 70 years with FF (hip joint, periprosthetic, spine, pelvic ring, and humerus) of our geriatric trauma center for the years 2019–2021, who received orthogeriatric co-management. Demographic data, fracture type, complications, discharge modality and in-hospital mortality were recorded. For patients transferred to geriatrics, the Barthel Index (BI) and the discharge modality were recorded. Primary outcome parameters were discharge modality and BI difference. Secondary outcome parameters were complication rates and in-hospital mortality. Logistic regression analysis was performed.

Results

555 patients (83.8 ± 6.5 years, 182 males, 373 females) were evaluated. 245 (44.1%) patients were referred to geriatrics for further orthogeriatric treatment. Positive predictors were age, surgery, and a high Charlson Comorbidity Index. The overall in-hospital mortality was 8.6% (n = 48) (5.8% (n = 32) during acute trauma care and 6.5% (n = 16) during stay in geriatrics). The mortality rate of nursing home residents was significantly higher compared to patients living at home (10.4% vs. 5.6%). The rate of non-surgical complications was 44.5%. 26.9% of patients living at home were discharged to a nursing home, while 51.3% were able to return home. The risk of admission to a nursing home was reduced for thoracolumbar fractures (OR = 0.22) and increased markedly for periprosthetic fractures (OR = 3.95). During orthogeriatric treatment, all fractures showed a significant increase in BI. Patients living at home benefited more than nursing home residents (20.5 ± 19.5 vs. 8.7 ± 18.0 points). The chance of a BI increase (> 19 points) was increased for hip and pelvic ring fractures. Devastating results showed patients with dementia. In comparison, mentally healthy patients had a 4.5-fold increased chance of increasing their BI (> 19 points).

Conclusions

Presented data shows that all patients with FF are at high risk for complications and could benefit from standardized orthogeriatric management. Modern patient care requires a holistic orthogeriatric approach to improve patient’s outcome.
Efficacy of LL-37 cream in enhancing healing of diabetic foot ulcer: a randomized double-blind controlled trial
Authors: Miranda Eliza , Bramono Kusmarinah , Yunir Em , Reksodiputro Mirta H. , Suwarsa Oki , Rengganis Iris , Harahap Alida R. , Subekti Decy , Suwarto Suhendro , Hayun Hayun , Bardosono Saptawati , Baskoro Joko C.
Published: July 2023

Wound healing in DFU (diabetic foot ulcer) has prolonged inflammation phase and defective granulation tissue formation. LL-37 has antimicrobial property, induces angiogenesis, and keratinocyte migration and proliferation. This study analyzes the efficacy of LL-37 cream in enhancing wound healing rate and decreasing the levels of IL-1α, TNF-α, and the number of aerobic bacteria colonization in DFU with mild infection. This study was conducted from January 2020 to June 2021 in Jakarta. Subjects were instructed to apply either LL-37 cream or placebo cream twice a week for 4 weeks. Wounds were measured on days 7, 14, 21, and 28 and processed with ImageJ. The levels of LL-37, IL-1α, and TNF-α from wound fluid were measured using ELISA. The number of aerobic bacteria colonization was counted from the isolate grown in culture. The levels of LL-37 in DFU at baseline were equally low in both groups which were 1.07 (0.37–4.96) ng/mg protein in the LL-37 group and 1.11 (0.24–2.09) ng/mg protein in the placebo group. The increase in granulation index was consistently greater in the LL-37 group on days 7, 14, 21, and 28 (p = 0.031, 0.009, 0.006, and 0.037, respectively). The levels of IL-1α and TNF-α increased in both groups on days 14 and 21 (p > 0.05). The decrease in the number of aerobic bacteria colonization was greater in the LL-37 group on days 7, 14 and 21, but greater in the placebo group on day 28 (p > 0.05). In conclusion, LL-37 cream enhanced the healing rate of DFU with mild infection, but did not decrease the levels of IL-1α and TNF-α and the number of aerobic bacteria colonization. This trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT04098562.
Relationship of Ki-67 index in biopsies of metastatic breast cancer tissue and circulating tumor cells (CTCs) at the time of biopsy collection
Authors: Deutsch Thomas M. , Fischer Chiara , Riedel Fabian , Haßdenteufel Kathrin , Michel Laura L. , Sütterlin Marc , Riethdorf Sabine , Pantel Klaus , Wallwiener Markus , Schneeweiss Andreas , Stefanovic Stefan
Published: July 2023

Background

The proliferation marker Ki-67 is a major pathological feature for the description of the state of disease in breast cancer. It helps to define the molecular subtype and to stratify between therapy regimens in early breast cancer and helps to assess the therapy response. Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are a negative prognostic biomarker for progression free (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in patients with metastatic breast cancer. Therefore, the CTC count is often described as surrogate for the tumor burden. Both, decrease of Ki-67 and CTC count are considered as evidence for therapy response. The presented work analyzed the correlation between the Ki-67 indices of metastatic tissue biopsies and CTC counts in biopsy time-adjacent peripheral blood samples.

Patients and methods

Blood samples from 70 metastatic breast cancer patients were obtained before the start of a new line of systemic therapy. CTCs were enumerated using CellSearch® (Menarini Silicon Biosystems, Bologna, Italy) whereas intact CTCs (iCTCs) and non-intact or apoptotic CTCs (aCTCs) were distinguished using morphologic criteria. The proportion of cells expressing Ki-67 was evaluated using immunohistochemistry on biopsies of metastases obtained concurrently with CTC sampling before the start of a new line of systemic therapy.

Results

65.7% of patients had a Ki-67 index of > 25%. 28.6% of patients had ≥ 5, 47.1% ≥ 1 iCTCs. 37.1% had ≥ 5, 51.4% ≥ 1 aCTCs. No correlation was shown between Ki-67 index and iCTC and aCTC count (r = 0.05 resp. r = 0.05, Spearman’s correlation index). High CTC-counts did not coincide with high Ki-67 index. High Ki-67, ≥ 5 iCTCs and aCTCs are associated with poor progression free (PFS) and overall survival (OS).

Conclusion

CTCs and Ki-67 are independent prognostic markers in metastatic breast cancer. High Ki-67 in metastatic tumor tissue is not correlated to high iCTC or aCTC counts in peripheral blood.
Treatment of adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) with transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS): study protocol for a parallel, randomized, double-blinded, sham-controlled, multicenter trial (Stim-ADHD)
Authors: Mauche Nicole , Ulke Christine , Huang Jue , Franke Annegret , Bogatsch Holger , Ethofer Thomas , Grimm Oliver , Frodl Thomas , Hoffmann Knut , Juckel Georg , Kittel-Schneider Sarah , Mehren Aylin , Philipsen Alexandra , Plewnia Christian , Reif Andreas , Ziegler Georg C. , Strauß Maria
Published: July 2023

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation treatment used as an alternative or complementary treatment for various neuropsychiatric disorders, and could be an alternative or add-on therapy to psychostimulants in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Previous studies provided some evidence for improvements in cognition and clinical symptoms in pediatric and adult ADHD patients. However, data from multi-center randomized controlled trials (RCTs) for this condition are lacking. Thus, our aim is to evaluate short- and mid-term effects of tDCS in this multi-center, randomized, double blind, and sham-controlled, parallel group clinical trial with a 1:1 randomization ratio. Primary endpoint is the total score of DSM-IV scale of the internationally established Conners’ Adult ADHD Rating Scales (German self-report screening version, CAARS-S-SR), at day 14 post-intervention (p.i.) to detect short-term lasting effects analyzed via analyses of covariance (ANCOVAs). In case of significant between-groups differences at day 14 p.i., hierarchically ordered hypotheses on mid-term lasting effects will be investigated by linear mixed models with visit (5 time points), treatment, treatment by visit interaction, and covariates as fixed categorical effects plus a patient-specific visit random effect, using an unstructured covariance structure to model the residual within-patient errors. Positive results of this clinical trial will expand the treatment options for adult ADHD patients with tDCS and provide an alternative or add-on therapy to psychostimulants with a low risk for side effects.

Trial Registration The trial was registered on July 29, 2022 in the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS00028148).
Cytomegalovirus-positive Posner-Schlossman syndrome: to compare differences in retinal vessel area density between the affected and non-affected eye using optical coherence tomography angiography
Authors: Hülse Patricia , Reitemeyer Emanuel , Rübsam Anne , Pleyer Uwe , Maier Anna-Karina B.
Published: July 2023

Purpose

To analyse differences in the retinal microvasculature in eyes with cytomegalovirus (CMV)-positive Posner-Schlossman syndrome (PSS) compared to the non-affected eyes using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA).

Methods

In this monocentric, observational prospective case series, 25 patients with unilateral CMV-positive PSS were included. We compared the vessel area densities (VAD) in the macula, optic disc, and peripapillary region in PSS-affected and non-affected eyes using OCTA. We compared the visual fields (VF) of the affected and healthy eyes of each patient. The mean deviation (MD) of the VF was analysed together with the retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) thickness to evaluate the strength of correlation with the VAD parameters.

Results

The VAD of the peripapillary superficial vascular complex (SVC) is significantly reduced in CMV-positive PSS-affected eyes (46.1 ± 9.3% versus 50.1 ± 6.3%, p = 0.008, adjusted p = 0.048). The VAD of the deeper macular, papillary, and peripapillary layers showed no differences between the affected and non-affected eyes. The mean deviation and the retinal nerve fibre layer thickness had correlations with the VAD of the macula (r = 0.451, p = 0.001, r = 0.553, p < 0.001), the peripapillary SCV (r = 0.430, p = 0.002, r = 0.723, p < 0.001), and the papillary region (r = 0.512, p < 0.001, r = 0.292, p = 0.039). Patients receiving systemic antiviral therapy (SAT) showed better VAD of the peripapillary choriocapillary layer (p = 0.001, no therapy: 31.4 ± 1.9%, SAT: 35.0 ± 1.6%), and choroidal layer (p = 0.009, no therapy: 34.2 ± 0.3%, SAT: 36.3 ± 1.8%) compared to those with no SAT.

Conclusion

A lower peripapillary VAD in the SVC might indicate vascular dysfunction as a sign of glaucomatous damage. SAT might have positive effects on the microcirculation in the deep retinal and choroidal layers.

Trial registration

TRN: DRKS00028266, https://www.drks.de/drks_web/.
Development of an eHealth-enhanced model of care for the monitoring and management of immune-related adverse events in patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors
Authors: da Silva Lopes André Manuel , Colomer-Lahiguera Sara , Darnac Célia , Giacomini Stellio , Bugeia Sébastien , Gutknecht Garance , Spurrier-Bernard Gilliosa , Aedo-Lopez Veronica , Mederos Nuria , Latifyan Sofiya , Addedo Alfredo , Michielin Olivier , Eicher Manuela
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The use of electronic patient-reported outcome (ePRO) data in routine care has been tied to direct patient benefits such as improved quality of care and symptom control and even overall survival. The modes of action behind such benefits are seldom described in detail. Here, we describe the development of a model of care leveraging ePRO data to monitor and manage symptoms of patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors.

Methods

Development was split into four stages: (1) identification of an underlying theoretical framework, (2) the selection of an ePRO measure (ePROM), (3) the adaptation of an electronic application to collect ePRO data, and (4) the description of an ePRO-oriented workflow. The model of care is currently evaluated in a bicentric longitudinal randomized controlled phase II trial, the IePRO study.

Results

The IePRO model of care is grounded in the eHealth Enhanced Chronic Care Model. Patients are prompted to report symptoms using an electronic mobile application. Triage nurses are alerted, review the reported symptoms, and contact patients in case of a new or worsening symptom. Nurses use the UKONS 24-hour telephone triage tool to issue patient management recommendations to the oncology team. Adapted care coordinating procedures facilitate team collaboration and provide patients with timely feedback.

Conclusion

This report clarifies how components of care are created and modified to leverage ePRO to enhance care. The model describes a workflow that enables care teams to be proactive and provide patients with timely, multidisciplinary support to manage symptoms.
Equivariant index bound for min–max free boundary minimal surfaces
Authors: Franz Giada
Published: July 2023

Given a three-dimensional Riemannian manifold with boundary and a finite group of orientation-preserving isometries of this manifold, we prove that the equivariant index of a free boundary minimal surface obtained via an equivariant min–max procedure á la Simon–Smith with n-parameters is bounded above by n.
Nonlocal estimates for the volume preserving mean curvature flow and applications
Authors: Lambert Ben , Mäder-Baumdicker Elena
Published: July 2023

We obtain estimates on nonlocal quantities appearing in the volume preserving mean curvature flow (VPMCF) in the closed, Euclidean setting. As a result we demonstrate that blowups of finite time type I singularities of VPMCF are ancient solutions to mean curvature flow (MCF), prove that monotonicity methods may always be applied at these finite times and obtain information on the asymptotics of the flow. In the case of type II singularities, asymptotic flows corresponding to ’Hamilton’s rescaling procedures’ are eternal solutions of the MCF.
c-PCBSD, a cross-linked fullerene derivative, as a cathodic interlayer in wide-band gap perovskite solar cells
Authors: Gugujonović Katarina , Mayr Felix , Hailegnaw Bekele , Pöllner Stefan , Zahrhuber Rene , Planer Alexander , Wang Chuan-Hsin , Hsu Chain-Shu , Scharber Markus Clark
Published: July 2023

Wide-band gap absorber materials are prerequisites for well-performing tandem photovoltaic devices. Especially, perovskites received huge attention due to their tunable band gap and outstanding optoelectronic properties. Although perovskite solar cells are known to be highly efficient, high-open-circuit voltage losses remain a prevalent issue for wide-band gap perovskites. Within this work, we have investigated the application of the cross-linkable fullerene derivative [6,6]-phenyl-C61-butyric styryl dendron ester (c-PCBSD) as a cathodic interlayer in wide-band gap perovskite solar cells. We could obtain increased open-circuit voltage compared to pristine devices, attributed to fast electron transfer between the perovskite and the interlayer. The changed charge carrier dynamics result in a reduction of non-radiative losses, which consequently decreases the open-circuit voltage loss.

Graphical abstract
Assessing decisional conflict and challenges in decision-making among perinatal women using or considering using antidepressants during pregnancy—a mixed-methods study
Authors: Tauqeer Fatima , Moen Anne , Myhr Kirsten , Wilson Claire A. , Lupattelli Angela
Published: July 2023

This study aims to investigate decisional conflict and elucidate challenges in decision-making among perinatal women using or considering using antidepressant (AD) during pregnancy. A sequential, mixed-methods study was employed among pregnant and postnatal women in Norway who had been offered ADs in the last 5 years. Quantitative data were obtained through an electronic questionnaire. Decisional conflict in pregnancy was assessed using the Decisional Conflict Scale (DCS) defined as either low (< 25) or moderate-high ( ≥ 25) (evaluated retrospectively for postnatal women). Logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with moderate–high decisional conflict. Qualitative data were collected through focus groups with pregnant and postnatal women, and an inductive approach was used for data analysis. Among 174 pregnant and 102 postnatal women, 67.8% and 69.6%, respectively, reported moderate–high decisional conflict during pregnancy. Unsatisfactory doctor-patient relationship was associated with greater likelihood of having moderate–high decisional conflict in pregnancy, both in pregnant (aOR = 1.20, 95% CI: 1.00–1.44) and postnatal women (aOR = 1.40, 95% CI: 1.08–1.82). Reported barriers to decision-making regarding AD use in pregnancy encompassed five DCS subscales: uninformed knowledge following contradictory research and unfamiliarity with authorised resources, unclear values due to emotional blunting and fear associated with AD use, inadequate support, uncertainty in decisions and ineffective decisions due to difficulty in finding personalised treatment, and diverging recommendations by the healthcare providers (HCPs). The quality of the interaction with the HCP plays a crucial role in managing decisional conflict and supporting informed decisions in the management of perinatal mental illness. This study highlights the need for increased provision of clear, evidence-based information by HCPs to facilitate shared decision-making and create personalised treatments for perinatal women considering AD use during pregnancy.
Do you consider dry deposition in your chloride mass balance to estimate groundwater recharge? Yes, no, maybe
Authors: Michelsen Nils , Rezvani Matin , Schulz Stephan
Published: July 2023

The popular chloride mass balance (CMB) method is often praised for its simplicity, especially in the groundwater recharge context. While some involved variables are indeed easy to obtain, the required atmospheric (wet/dry) chloride deposition is difficult to quantify. A literature survey, conducted for Africa and the Middle East, revealed surprising differences in the chosen approaches. This essay does not offer easy answers, but in view of many insufficiently described methodologies, it calls for more transparency in CMB studies.
Towards diverse agricultural land uses: socio-ecological implications of European agricultural pathways for a Swiss orchard region
Authors: Nishizawa Takamasa , Kay Sonja , Schuler Johannes , Klein Noëlle , Conradt Tobias , Mielewczik Michael , Herzog Felix , Aurbacher Joachim , Zander Peter
Published: July 2023

Diverse agricultural land uses are a typical feature of multifunctional landscapes. The uncertain change in the drivers of global land use, such as climate, market and policy technology and demography, challenges the long-term management of agricultural diversification. As these global drivers also affect smaller scales, it is important to capture the traits of regionally specific farm activities to facilitate adaptation to change. By downscaling European shared socioeconomic pathways (SSPs) for agricultural and food systems, combined with representative concentration pathways (RCP) to regionally specific, alternative socioeconomic and climate scenarios, the present study explores the major impacts of the drivers of global land use on regional agriculture by simulating farm-level decisions and identifies the socio-ecological implications for promoting diverse agricultural landscapes in 2050. A hilly orchard region in northern Switzerland was chosen as a case study to represent the multifunctional nature of Swiss agriculture. Results show that the different regionalised pathways lead to contrasting impacts on orchard meadows, production levels and biodiversity. Increased financial support for ecological measures, adequate farm labour supplies for more labour-intensive farming and consumer preferences that favour local farm produce can offset the negative impacts of climate change and commodity prices and contribute to agricultural diversification and farmland biodiversity. However, these conditions also caused a significant decline in farm production levels. This study suggests that considering a broader set of land use drivers beyond direct payments, while acknowledging potential trade-offs and diverse impacts across different farm types, is required to effectively manage and sustain diversified agricultural landscapes in the long run.
Ultrasound evaluation of intraluminal magnets in an ex vivo model
Authors: Lee Jason J. , Rugg Amanda L. , Wu Crystal K. , Hamblin Garrett J. , Larson Michael C.
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The management of foreign body ingestion proves to be a challenge. Magnets pose a unique set of risks when ingested due to their attractive forces and subsequent risk of adherence, pressure necrosis, and perforation complications. Radiographs only provide a limited snapshot in the setting of multiple magnet ingestion when the risk of complication is highest. We hypothesize that abdominal ultrasound (US) has the potential to supplement radiographs in assessing ingested magnets by determining the presence of bowel loop entrapment and of any extraluminal fluid.

Methods

We recreated various scenarios of magnet configurations using animal cadaveric bowel models. X-ray and US images were obtained in various bowel-magnet orientations.

Results

We identified several key US features to suggest bowel wall tethering. These include direct visualization of bowel wall entrapment between magnets (what we term the “dangerous V sign”), anti-dependent positions of the magnets, and inability to separate loops of bowel with compression.

Conclusion

These findings could potentially provide valuable information when directing the urgency of intervention in foreign body ingestion. Ultrasound may supplement and improve the current guidelines in management of magnet ingestion.
Altimetry-derived tide model for improved tide and water level forecasting along the European continental shelf
Authors: Hart-Davis Michael G. , Laan Stendert , Schwatke Christian , Backeberg Björn , Dettmering Denise , Zijl Firmijn , Verlaan Martin , Passaro Marcello , Seitz Florian
Published: July 2023

With the continued rise in global mean sea level, operational predictions of tidal height and total water levels have become crucial for accurate estimations and understanding of sea level processes. The Dutch Continental Shelf Model in Delft3D Flexible Mesh (DCSM-FM) is developed at Deltares to operationally estimate the total water levels to help trigger early warning systems to mitigate against these extreme events. In this study, a regional version of the Empirical Ocean Tide model for the Northwest European Continental Sea (EOT-NECS) is developed with the aim to apply better tidal forcing along the boundary of the regional DCSM-FM. EOT-NECS is developed at DGFI-TUM by using 30 years of multi-mission along-track satellite altimetry to derive tidal constituents which are estimated both empirically and semi-empirically. Compared to the global model, EOT20, EOT-NECS showed a reduction in the root-square-sum error for the eight major tidal constituents of 0.68 cm compared to in situ tide gauges. When applying constituents from EOT-NECS at the boundaries of DCSM-FM, an overall improvement of 0.29 cm was seen in the root-mean-square error of tidal height estimations made by DCSM-FM, with some regions exceeding a 1 cm improvement. Furthermore, of the fourteen constituents tested, eleven showed a reduction of RMS when included at the boundary of DCSM-FM from EOT-NECS. The results demonstrate the importance of using the appropriate tide model(s) as boundary forcings, and in this study, the use of EOT-NECS has a positive impact on the total water level estimations made in the northwest European continental seas.
Complementarity formulation of games with random payoffs
Authors: Riccardi Rossana , Oggioni Giorgia , Allevi Elisabetta , Lisser Abdel
Published: July 2023

We consider an n-player non-cooperative game where the payoff function of each player follows a multivariate distribution. This formulation is adopted to model a zonal electricity market in which generators operate by running conventional and renewable-based plants. The players in the market compete as in a Cournot model. We formulate this problem as a chance-constrained game by defining the payoff function of each player using a chance constraint. A full empirical analysis has been conducted on the Italian electricity market to test the impact of renewable generators in the light of decarbonization of the market and the impact of the volatility of the cost of conventional plants, mainly related to the volatility of gas prices. We finally test the robustness of the chance constraint formulation with an out of sample analysis.
Comparison between cavernous sinus and jugular vein as post mortem sampling sites for blood metabolic profiles in wild red deer (Cervus elaphus)
Authors: Comazzi Stefano , Guanziroli Sharon , Giordano Alessia , Formenti Nicoletta , Trogu Tiziana , Corlatti Luca , Luzzago Camilla , Ferrari Nicola
Published: July 2023

Collection from jugular vein (JV) or intrathoracic cavity is the traditional procedure for blood sampling dead wildlife, but it is often source of preanalytical biases. Cavernous sinus of dura mater (CS) is an alternative site for withdrawal that may help to solve these issues but it has been used only for serology, while no data are available for biochemistry. This work compares metabolic profiles from CS and JV blood in red deer Cervus elaphus, to evaluate the usability of CS for metabolic profiling. A total of 134 deer were sampled in the frame of a culling program within the Stelvio National Park (Central Italian Alps). Hemolysis was statistically lower in CS than JV with 88% vs 44% of samples suitable for biochemistry. Thirty-six couples of poorly hemolytic sera were used for biochemical analysis: total protein, albumin, urea, triglycerides, total cholesterol, non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), betahydroxybutyrate (BOHB), calcium, and phosphorus. Statistical differences were found for protein, albumin, cholesterol, and calcium; agreement was found for urea, NEFA, BOHB, and phosphorus while for total protein, albumin, cholesterol, and calcium, CS showed lower concentrations with both constant and proportional biases. These results may be related to a higher impact of water dilution in CS. Although the lower protein concentration in CS cannot significantly influence the serological results, caution is required for potential false negative results when antibody levels are close to cut-off values. CS leads to a higher percentage of samples suitable for metabolic profiles but results should be compared with adequate reference intervals.
Scheduling activities in project network with feeding precedence relations: an earliest start forward recursion algorithm
Authors: Bianco Lucio , Caramia Massimiliano , Giordani Stefano , Salvatore Alessio
Published: July 2023

In some production processes, the effort associated with a certain activity for its execution can vary over time. In this case, the amount of work per time unit devoted to each activity, so as its duration, is not univocally determined. This kind of problem can be represented by an activity project network with the so-called feeding precedence relations, and activity variable execution intensity. In this paper, we propose a forward recursion algorithm able to find the earliest start and finish times of each activity, in $$O(m \log n)$$

O
(
m
log
n
)

time, with n and m being the number of activities and the number of precedence relations, respectively. In particular, this requires the calculation of the (optimal) execution intensity profile, for each activity, that warrants the earliest start schedule and the minimum completion time of the project.
Weighted Colimits of 2-Representations and Star Algebras
Authors: Stroiński Mateusz
Published: July 2023

We apply the theory of weighted bicategorical colimits to study the problem of existence and computation of such colimits of birepresentations of finitary bicategories. The main application of our results is the complete classification of simple transitive birepresentations of a bicategory studied previously by Zimmermann. The classification confirms a conjecture he has made.
Modification of the SSG/LRR-Omega Model for Turbulent Boundary Layer Flows in an Adverse Pressure Gradient
Authors: Knopp Tobias , Reuther Nico , Novara Matteo , Schanz Daniel , Schülein Erich , Schröder Andreas , Kähler Christian J.
Published: July 2023

A modification of the RANS turbulence model SSG/LRR-$$\omega $$
ω
for turbulent boundary layers in an adverse pressure gradient is presented. The modification is based on a wall law for the mean velocity, in which the log law is progressively eroded in an adverse pressure gradient and an extended wall law (designated loosely as a half-power law) emerges above the log law. An augmentation term for the half-power law region is derived from the analysis of the boundary-layer equation for the specific rate of dissipation $$\omega $$
ω
. An extended data structure within the RANS solver provides, for each viscous wall point, the field points on a wall-normal line. This enables the evaluation of characteristic boundary layer parameters for the local activation of the augmentation term. The modification is calibrated using a joint DLR/UniBw turbulent boundary layer experiment. The modified model yields an improved predictive accuracy for flow separation. Finally, the applicability of the modified model to a 3D wing-body configuration is demonstrated.
Is de-escalation of treatment by omission of radiotherapy associated with fear of cancer recurrence in women with early breast cancer? An exploratory study
Authors: Stafford Lesley , Sinclair Michelle , Butow Phyllis , Hughes Janemary , Park Allan , Gilham Leslie , Rose Allison , Mann G. Bruce
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Safe de-intensification of adjuvant radiotherapy (RT) for early breast cancer (BC) is currently under evaluation. Little is known about the patient experience of de-escalation or its association with fear of cancer recurrence (FCR), a key issue in survivorship. We conducted a cross-sectional study to explore this association.

Methods

Psychometrically validated measures including the Fear of Cancer Recurrence Inventory-Short Form were completed by three groups of women with early BC: Women in the PROSPECT clinical trial who underwent pre-surgical MRI and omitted RT (A), women who underwent pre-surgical MRI and received RT (B); and women who received usual care (no MRI, received RT; C). Between group differences were analysed with non-parametric tests. A subset from each group participated in a semi-structured interview. These data (n = 44) were analysed with directed content analysis.

Results

Questionnaires from 400 women were analysed. Significantly lower FCR was observed in Group A (n = 125) than in Group B (n = 102; p = .002) or Group C (n = 173; p = .001), and when participants were categorized by RT status (omitted RT vs received RT; p < .001). The proportion of women with normal FCR was significantly (p < .05) larger in Group A (62%) than in Group B (35%) or Group C (40%). Two qualitative themes emerged: ‘What I had was best’ and ‘Coping with FCR’.

Conclusions

Omitting RT in the setting of the PROSPECT trial was not associated with higher FCR than receiving RT. Positive perceptions about tailored care, lower treatment burden, and trust in clinicians appear to be protective against FCR.
Nectin-4 is frequently expressed in primary salivary gland cancer and corresponding lymph node metastases and represents an important treatment-related biomarker
Authors: Mayer Marcel , Nachtsheim Lisa , Prinz Johanna , Shabli Sami , Suchan Malte , Klußmann Jens Peter , Quaas Alexander , Arolt Christoph , Wolber Philipp
Published: July 2023

Many locally advanced and metastatic salivary gland carcinomas (SGC) lack therapeutic targets. Enfortumab vedotin, an antibody–drug conjugate binding to Nectin-4, recently gained FDA approval for third-line urothelial carcinoma. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the expression of Nectin-4 in primary SGC and corresponding lymph node metastases and to correlate it with clinicopathological data. Immunohistochemical staining for Nectin-4 was performed for patients who had undergone surgery with curative intent for primary SGC of the parotid or submandibular gland in a tertiary referral center between 1990 and 2019. One hundred twenty-two primary SGC and twenty corresponding lymph node metastases were included. Nectin-4 was expressed in 80.3% of primary SGC with a mean Histo(H-)score of 61.2 and in 90.0% of lymph node metastases with a mean H-score of 75.6. A moderate or high Nectin-4 expression was found in 25.9% of salivary duct carcinomas (SaDu) and in 30.7% of adenoid cystic carcinomas (ACC). SaDu patients with a lower T-stage (p = 0.04), no loco-regional lymph node metastases (p = 0.049), no vascular invasion (p = 0.04), and no perineural spread (p = 0.03) showed a significantly higher mean Nectin-4 H-score. There was a statistical tendency towards a more favorable disease-free survival among SaDu patients with a higher Nectin-4 expression (p = 0.09). Nectin-4 is expressed in SGC and therefore represents a potential therapeutic target, especially in entities with a high rate of local recurrence and metastatic spread such as SaDu and ACC.
Characterising a genetic stronghold amidst pervasive admixture: Morelet’s crocodiles (Crocodylus moreletii) in central Yucatan
Authors: Barão-Nóbrega José António L. , González-Jáuregui Mauricio , Padilla-Paz Sergio , Maher Kathryn H. , Martínez-Arce Arely , Cedeño-Vázquez José Rogelio , Jehle Robert
Published: July 2023

When backcrosses are fertile, interbreeding between endangered taxa can lead to the admixture of gene pools under threat. One such case pertains to the Mesoamerican crocodile Crocodylus moreletii, a species which shows strong signatures of both recent hybridisation and historic intogression with the American crocodile C. acutus across large parts of its range. In the present paper, we use RAD-seq derived SNPs (4980 nuclear and seven mtDNA loci) to demonstrate that C. moreletii populations inhabiting the region of Calakmul in central Yucatan (Mexico) are rather unaffected by hybridization, despite being surrounded by coastal areas where pervasive admixture has previously been documented. All (based on fastSTRUCTURE) and 96% (based on NGSadmix) of 84 genotyped individuals from 18 sampled waterbodies (locally termed aguadas) were free from nuclear introgression of C. acutus DNA at at threshold of 0.95. Seven individuals (8%) possessed a C. acutus mtDNA haplotype, five of which were derived from two adjacent, rather peripheral aguadas. Spatial inferences based on a DAPC and fineRADstructure further showed that the region of Calakmul is inhabited by three genetic clusters spanning across a set of distinct aguadas each. Taken together, our findings reveal that central Yucatan contains the currently largest documented stronghold of C. moreletii populations only marginally affected by introgression, which has major implications for the conservation management of this important flagship species.