bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of falls in noninstitutionalized people aged 65−80 and associations with sex and functional tests: A multicenter observational study
Authors: Blanco‐Blanco Joan , Albornos‐Muñoz Laura , Costa‐Menen Maria Àngels , García‐Martínez Ester , Rubinat‐Arnaldo Esther , Martínez‐Soldevila Jordi , Moreno‐Casbas María Teresa , Bays‐Moneo Ana Beatriz , Gea‐Sánchez Montserrat ,   Otago Project Working Group
Published: June 2022

Falls have a considerable impact on the functional prognosis of older adults. The main focus of this multicenter, retrospective, observational study was to examine the prevalence of falls in Spanish people aged 65−80 years still living at home. The secondary aims included examining the overall sociodemographic and clinical variables associated with a history of falls and then stratifying these findings by sex. We also aimed to determine the differences between sexes with regard to the history and consequences of falls and to evaluate associations between fall history and functional performance tests. The 747 older adults had all participated in the otago exercise program, which is a progressive home program of strength, balance, and endurance exercises. They were recruited by nurses in 21 primary care centers in 10 Spanish provinces between September 2017 to December 2018. The participants' mean age was 72.2 (SD: 4.3) years, and 67% were women. We recorded sociodemographic and clinical variables, functional performance test results, and any falls and/or injuries in the last 12 months. We found that 32% had fallen, 36% of those had fallen more than once, and 48% had sustained injuries when they fell. The bivariate analysis showed that women had more than twice the odds of falling than men and that living alone and being obese or overweight increased the odds of a fall, although living alone was not associated with falls in the multivariable analysis. Our results could guide the development of risk‐specific fall prevention programs to prevent disabilities in older people.
Adaptive reaching law‐based discrete‐time sliding mode control for mismatched uncertain systems
Authors: Xia Hongwei , Wang Cong , Wang Yanmin , Ren Shunqing
Published: June 2022

In this article, a novel adaptive reaching law is developed to address discrete‐time sliding mode control systems with mismatched uncertainties. By using the high‐order disturbance compensator, a new reduced‐order sliding surface is constructed to avoid redundancy and decrease superfluous computational expense. Then, an adaptive reaching law with adjustable switching gain is designed to guarantee globally fast convergence of sliding variable. Compared with existing similar works, the proposed reaching law has a main advantage that it can obtain arbitrarily small width of quasi sliding mode domain, leading to suppressed chattering. Based on the analysis of the closed‐loop system, the upper bound of steady states is established. The whole control scheme is able to counteract mismatched uncertainties and achieve high‐precision control at the same time. Finally, a simulated example on bank‐to‐turn missiles is given to verify this research achievement.
Experimental study of the compressive properties of a wood–plastic composite at different temperatures
Authors: Xi Fei , Zhao Longlong
Published: June 2022

Wood–plastic composites (WPCs) are environmentally friendly materials with good weather resistance and low cost. To investigate the feasibility of their use in different environments, a WPC was designed and subjected to a uniaxial compression test at seven temperatures to obtain the failure mode, uniaxial compressive strength, elastic modulus, proportional limit stress, peak stress, and ultimate strain. The results showed the following. The failure modes of the WPC specimens at various temperatures were mainly shear compression failure, double shear failure, and end compression failure. The uniaxial compressive strength and elastic modulus decreased with increasing temperature. Specifically, at temperatures of −60°C, 20°C (normal temperature), and 60°C, the WPC had an average compressive strength of 73.55, 33.7, and 13.51 MPa, respectively, and an average elastic modulus of 7819.11, 6141.71, and 2650.17 MPa, respectively. In terms of the WPC's stress–strain relationship, at a temperature greater than the normal temperature, the WPC had a small peak stress but good ductility; at the normal temperature and below, the WPC had a large peak stress but poor ductility. Based on these findings, the experimental phenomena and characteristic constants were analyzed to establish models of factors that reduce the uniaxial compressive elastic modulus and compressive strength of WPC at different temperatures, to provide a theoretical basis for the mechanical calculations for the application of WPC in various extreme environments.
Psychological, functional and social outcomes in adolescent and young adult cancer survivors over time: A systematic review of longitudinal studies
Authors: Bradford Natalie K. , McDonald Fiona E. J. , Bibby Helen , Kok Cindy , Patterson Pandora
Published: June 2022

Objective

Most adolescents and young adults (AYA) can expect to survive a cancer diagnosis and treatment, but all will be left with the potential of long‐term negative effects that can impact their ability to reach their full potential in life. Understanding aspects of psychological, functional, and social health and well‐being outcomes, is pivotal for optimising long‐term well‐being.

Methods

We completed a systematic review of longitudinal studies reporting outcomes after anti‐cancer treatment for Adolescents and Young Adults diagnosed between the age of 12–29 years according to established systematic review processes. The protocol was registered with PROSPERO (ID: CRD 42020203116).

Results

Thirteen reports from 10 studies met eligibility criteria representing 17,645 individuals (50.3% female, mean age at diagnosis 22 years, and 26 years at last, follow up). Eleven reports were from eight quantitative studies that relied on self‐report surveys and two were qualitative studies. Psychological outcomes were reported to improve over time, as were functional health outcomes, although reported health behaviours were inconsistent between studies. Neurocognitive deficits were reported to affect the ability to return to work and impacts on fertility and sexuality were sustained over time.

Conclusions

While some outcomes for AYA are reported to improve over time, particularly for physical functioning, and anxiety and depression, the long‐term impact of cancer on many important domains remains largely unknown. Specifically, the evidence to understand what changes occur over time, and when, remains underdeveloped.
Short Drying Processes for Silicon Solar Cells
Authors: Ourinson Daniel , Linse Michael , Klawitter Markus , Lorenz Andreas
Published: June 2022

Herein, very short drying processes for the screen‐printed electrodes of passivated emitter and rear solar cells (PERC) are successfully demonstrated. The short drying processes are conducted in an in‐line heating system with vertical‐cavity surface‐emitting lasers (VCSEL) as its heat source, being a compact alternative to the conventional heating chamber. While the heating time of the conventional industrial drying process is believed to be about 20 s (to the best of the authors’ knowledge), the VCSEL system allows a significant reduction down to 0.15 s while maintaining a similar power conversion efficiency and contact adhesion quality.
Propensity score matching and stratification using multiparty data without pooling
Authors: Wang Jixian , Marion‐Gallois Roland
Published: June 2022

Matching and stratification based on confounding factors or propensity scores (PS) are powerful approaches for reducing confounding bias in indirect treatment comparisons. However, implementing these approaches requires pooled individual patient data (IPD). The research presented here was motivated by an indirect comparison between a single‐armed trial in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and two external AML registries with current treatments for a control. For confidentiality reasons, IPD cannot be pooled. Common approaches to adjusting confounding bias, such as PS matching or stratification, cannot be applied as 1) a model for PS, for example, a logistic model, cannot be fitted without pooling covariate data; 2) pooling response data may be necessary for some statistical inference (e.g., estimating the SE of mean difference of matched pairs) after PS matching. We propose a set of approaches that do not require pooling IPD, using a combination of methods including a linear discriminant for matching and stratification, and secure multiparty computation for estimation of within‐pair sample variance and for calculations involving multiple control sources. The approaches only need to share aggregated data offline, rather than real‐time secure data transfer, as required by typical secure multiparty computation for model fitting. For survival analysis, we propose an approach using restricted mean survival time. A simulation study was conducted to evaluate this approach in several scenarios, in particular, with a mixture of continuous and binary covariates. The results confirmed the robustness and efficiency of the proposed approach. A real data example is also provided for illustration.
The use of the Cpm index to monitor processes
Authors: Costa Antonio Fernando Branco
Published: June 2022

The Cpm index was originally created to measure the ability of the process to produce products meeting specifications but, more recently, the Cpm has also been used to control processes. In this new application, the charting points of the control chart are the estimated values of the Cpm index obtained with the mean and the variance of the samples. The performance of the Cpm chart is not affect by the values of the specification limits, but it is highly affected by d, the distance between the middle point of the specifications and the in‐control mean of the X distribution. Because of that, a search is conducted to find d that optimizes the overall performance of the Cpm chart in signaling the three usual types of changes in process parameters: isolated mean shifts, isolated variance increases, and the two together. Comparing the joint and S2 charts, the Cpk chart and the Cpm chart, the last one is always the most sensitive in detecting all three types of process changes, except when the variance remains unaltered and the mean increases/decreases a lot (one and half standard deviations); in this case, the joint and S2 charts are slightly faster than the Cpm chart.
Lipid extraction has tissue‐dependent effects on isotopic values (δ34S, δ13C, and δ15N) from different marine predators
Authors: Riverón Sabrina , Raoult Vincent , Slip David J. , Harcourt Robert G.
Published: June 2022

Rationale

The use of sulfur isotopes to study trophic ecology in marine ecosystems has increased in the past decade. Unlike other commonly used isotopes (e.g., carbon), sulfur can better discriminate benthic and pelagic productivity. However, how lipid extraction affects sulfur isotopic values has not been assessed, despite its frequent use to remove lipid effects on δ13C values.

Methods

We used white muscle and liver samples from two species of sharks and skin samples from two species of pinnipeds (sea lion and fur seal) to assess the effects of lipid extraction on stable isotope values for δ34S, δ13C, and δ15N. Isotopic values were determined using a continuous flow‐isotope ratio mass spectrometer coupled to an elemental analyzer.

Results

Lipid extraction significantly decreased δ34S values in shark tissues, more so for liver than muscle (−4.6 ± 0.9‰ vs −0.8 ± 0.3‰, average change), with nearly no change in their standard deviations. Lipid extraction did not affect δ34S values from pinniped skin samples (0.2 ± 0.8‰, average change). After lipid extraction, consistent increases in δ13C values (0.2‰–7.3‰) were detected as expected, especially in tissue with high lipid content (C:N >4). After lipid extraction, significant increases in δ15N values (0.5‰–1.4‰) were found in shark muscle and liver tissues. For pinniped skin samples, δ15N values were not significantly lower after lipid extraction (−0.4‰ to –0.1‰).

Conclusions

Lipid extraction did not have a strong impact on δ34S values of shark muscle and pinniped skin (≤1‰). However, our results suggest it is essential to consider the effects of lipid extraction when interpreting results from δ34S values of shark liver tissue, as they significantly depleted values relative to bulk tissue (~5‰). This may reflect selective removal of sulfolipids and glutathione present in higher concentrations in the liver than in muscle and skin and requires further investigation.
Quantification of the Activator and Sensitizer Ion Distributions in NaYF4:Yb3+, Er3+ Upconverting Nanoparticles Via Depth‐Profiling with Tender X‐Ray Photoemission
Authors: Clark Pip C. J. , Andresen Elina , Sear Michael J. , Favaro Marco , Girardi Leonardo , van de Krol Roel , Resch‐Genger Ute , Starr David E.
Published: June 2022

The spatial distribution and concentration of lanthanide activator and sensitizer dopant ions are of key importance for the luminescence color and efficiency of upconverting nanoparticles (UCNPs). Quantifying dopant ion distributions and intermixing, and correlating them with synthesis methods require suitable analytical techniques. Here, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy depth‐profiling with tender X‐rays (2000–6000 eV), providing probe depths ideally matched to UCNP sizes, is used to measure the depth‐dependent concentration ratios of Er3+ to Yb3+, [Er3+]/[Yb3+], in three types of UCNPs prepared using different reagents and synthesis methods. This is combined with data simulations and inductively coupled plasma‐optical emission spectroscopy (ICP‐OES) measurements of the lanthanide ion concentrations to construct models of the UCNPs’ dopant ion distributions. The UCNP sizes and architectures are chosen to demonstrate the potential of this approach. Core‐only UCNPs synthesized with XCl3·6H2O precursors (β‐phase) exhibit a homogeneous distribution of lanthanide ions, but a slightly surface‐enhanced [Er3+]/[Yb3+] is observed for UCNPs prepared with trifluroacetate precursors (α‐phase). Examination of Yb‐core@Er‐shell UCNPs reveals a co‐doped, intermixed region between the single‐doped core and shell. The impact of these different dopant ion distributions on the UCNP's optical properties is discussed to highlight their importance for UCNP functionality and the design of efficient UCNPs.
Dual In Situ Polymerization Strategy Endowing Rapid Ion Transfer Capability of Polymer Electrolyte toward Ni‐Rich‐Based Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Wang Su , Sun Qifang , Ma Yue , Wang Zhenyu , Zhang Hongzhou , Shi Xixi , Song Dawei , Zhang Lianqi , Zhu Lingyun
Published: June 2022

Poly(vinylidenefluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF‐HFP) is one of the most promising candidate electrolyte matrices for high energy batteries. However, the spherical skeleton structure obtained through the conventional method fails to build continuous Li ion transmission channels due to the slow volatilization of high boiling solvent, leading to inferior cycling performance, especially in a Ni‐rich system. Herein, a novel strategy is presented to enrich the Li ion transfer paths and improve the Li ion migration kinetics. The tactic is to prepare cross‐linked segments through the PVDF‐HFP matrix by adopting free radical polymerization and Li salt induced ring‐opening polymerization. Most significantly, the visualization of the structure of as‐prepared electrolyte is innovatively realized with the combination of polarization microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscope‐energy dispersive spectroscopy, PVDF‐HFP, and cross‐linked network form interconnected microstructures. Therefore, poly(glycidyl methacrylate and acrylonitrile)@poly(vinylidene fluoride‐hexafluoropropylene) electrolyte presents a high ionic conductivity (1.04 mS cm−1 at 30 °C) and a stable voltage profile for a Li/Li cell after 1200 h. After assembly with a LiNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2 cathode, a high discharge specific capacity of 190.3 mAh g−1 is delivered, and the capacity retention reaches 88.2% after 100 cycles. This work provides a promising method for designing high‐performance polymer electrolytes for lithium metal batteries.
Effect of Texture and Temperature on Strain‐Induced Martensitic Transformation in 304 Austenitic Stainless Steel
Authors: Lee Jeong-Chan , Noh Yeonju , Kim Nam-Su , Park Ki Beom , Kim Hyunghoon , Cho Hyung-Hwan , Park Hyung-Ki , Jun Tea-Sung , Park Chang-Soo
Published: June 2022

The austenitic stainless steel's remarkable mechanical properties are caused by twinning‐induced plasticity and transformation‐induced plasticity mechanisms. Numerous studies focus on stacking fault energy's effect, which is affected by various factors, to interpret and control these mechanisms. However, crystallographic orientation is also an important parameter for mechanical properties in metals. This study compares the mechanical properties and microstructural features of 304 austenitic stainless steel, focusing on the effect of initial texture and deformation temperature. Microstructural characterization is identified by an interrupted tensile test based on strain, tensile direction, and temperature conditions, and X‐ray diffraction and electron back‐scattered diffraction analysis are performed. The results show that the mechanical features and strain‐induced martensitic transformation rate depend on the tensile directions. In addition, this trend is maintained irrespective of the temperature conditions. The attribute reason is that the difference in the Taylor factor and the formation rate of the deformed band structure is induced by the initial crystallographic orientations. Moreover, a decrease in temperature significantly increases the dislocation densities and abundant twins and transformed martensites formation. Furthermore, the yield and tensile strengths are enhanced while the elongation decreased with the tensile strains.
Recent Advances in Anode Electrocatalysts for Direct Formic Acid Fuel Cells – Part I – Fundamentals and Pd Based Catalysts
Authors: Safdar Hossain SK , Saleem Junaid , Mudassir Ahmad Alwi M. , Al‐Odail Faisal A. , Mozahar Hossain Mohammad
Published: June 2022

Direct formic acid fuel cells (DFAFCs) have gained immense importance as a source of clean energy for portable electronic devices. It outperforms other fuel cells in several key operational and safety parameters. However, slow kinetics of the formic acid oxidation at the anode remains the main obstacle in achieving a high power output in DFAFCs. Noble metal‐based electrocatalysts are effective, but are expensive and prone to CO poisoning. Recently, a substantial volume of research work have been dedicated to develop inexpensive, high activity and long lasting electrocatalysts. Herein, recent advances in the development of anode electrocatalysts for DFAFCs are presented focusing on understanding the relationship between activity and structure. This review covers the literature related to the electrocatalysts based on noble metals, non‐noble metals, metal‐oxides, synthesis route, support material, and fuel cell performance. The future prospects and bottlenecks in the field are also discussed at the end.
Cemetery Enchanted, Encore: Natural Burial in France and Beyond
Authors: Tschebann Saskya
Published: June 2022

Over the past three decades, a silent revolution in funerary practices and cemetery design known as the ‘natural burial movement’ has swept over various national contexts and created a transnational narrative that is embedded in local funerary cultures. Seeking out environmentally-friendly burial alternatives, new cemetery and commemoration concepts take into account the urban lack of space and changing family structures and combine these with a desire for autonomy from economically and ecologically costly burial practices. A salient feature of these new burial sites are their naturalistic design and enchanting appeal. Presenting ethnographic research at France’s first natural cemetery« Cimetière naturel de Souché », which opened in 2014, this chapter examines and reflects on the changes in material as well as immaterial funeral settings within a contemporary European context. The research reveals insights into a heterogenous set of values concerning human body disposal, nature and culture, gift giving and reciprocity, and purity and respect. The main objectives of the cemetery officials originally were geared towards the creation of a place as close to nature’s makeup as possible, a reduction of the ecological footprint of burials, and cost decrease. The most significant aspects for the bereaved and other visitors are, however, an appeal beyond economic and ecologic objectives. Spiritualities, therapeutic death contemplation, and continuous kin care point to an enduring enchantment: meditations veiled in a green hue.
The Cemetery and Ossuary at Sedlec near Kutná Hora: Reflections on the Agency of the Dead
Authors: Horák Jan , Weiss-Krejci Estella , Frolík Jan , Velímský Filip , Šmejda Ladislav
Published: June 2022

This chapter exposes multiple contextual layers in the historical background of the famous Ossuary at Sedlec in the Czech Republic. The Cistercian monastery of Sedlec was founded in the twelfth century and its importance soon increased together with the expansion of silver mining in the nearby town of Kutná Hora. According to a later legendary narrative, soil brought from the Holy Land was scattered across the monastic cemetery, which made this place an attractive destination for the burial of countless corpses in the course of the following centuries. The enormous amount of human remains in individual as well as mass graves led to the establishment of the Ossuary, which was rearranged several times, most recently in the second half of the nineteenth century. A variety of folk tales tell of the miraculous deeds of the bones and their special powers. Being conveniently located in the buffer zone of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kutná Hora, today crowds of tourists appreciate the macabre use of human skeletal elements in its decoration. A large-scale rescue excavation conducted recently around the Ossuary revealed an important archaeological archive that complements historical records.
From Saint to Anthropological Specimen: The Transformation of the Alleged Skeletal Remains of Saint Erik
Authors: Kjellström Anna
Published: June 2022

Erik Jedvardsson, king of Sweden, was slain in c. AD 1160 and has been venerated as a saint since the end of the twelfth century. It is clear from historical records and osteological studies that the bones, kept in a reliquary in Uppsala Cathedral, have received much attention over the centuries. Initially they served as intercessors with God and were reverently touched and divided for distribution to other institutions. After the Reformation the remains were kept in a reliquary and exclusively functioned as heirlooms embodying a legendary fallen king. In the Age of Enlightenment, the authenticity of the bones came under scrutiny. Eventually, they turned into subjects of scientific research and no less than three thorough anthropological investigations have been conducted since 1915. The transformation of Saint Erik’s body from a Christian relic to an anthropological specimen not only testifies to the strong agency of the remains but can be traced to several shifts in the ‘cultural paradigm’. Although the historical understanding of the medieval king has not changed significantly over time, these paradigm shifts have inevitably affected the narrative and how the bones have been handled.
Dissolving Subjects in Medieval Reliquaries and Twentieth-Century Mass Graves
Authors: Edlich-Muth Miriam
Published: June 2022

The remains of the dead can impinge upon public consciousness in different ways, ranging from the shock of ‘uncovering’ human remains in unexpected places to the social effects that can unfold around human remains that remain unseen but are known to be present. In 2009, following a lengthy legal battle, an official court decree ordered the excavation of private land located on the grounds of a former concentration camp in Jamlitz, Brandenburg. The decision was based on extensive evidence that this land was the site of a mass grave containing the remains of Hungarian, Polish, and German Jews who had been murdered during the Holocaust. The dispute, in which the burial rights of the as-yet-undiscovered human remains had come head to head with the rights and wishes of the landowner, became the focus of intense public debate. This cross-period paper compares the assumptions and values underlying this dispute with late medieval responses to encounters with the many relics and reliquaries that were circulating at the time. In doing so, it invites reflection on how individual self-perception and social identities can be shaped and threatened by engaging with human remains and the shifting and subjective contexts that inform their meaning.
Physical Wellbeing
Authors: Diaz Ariel , Hazell Philip
Published: June 2022

Regular physical exertion is protective against depression, promotes healthy sleep and may counteract the adverse metabolic effects of psychotropic agents. The Walker programme benefited for a time from the input of a sports psychologist, who provided tailored exercise programmes for most patients. The nursing team has continued to champion physical activity through use of an exercycle and rowing machine, ‘beep’ tests, group walks and games. Seizure disorders and Type 1 diabetes are the most common comorbid medical problems amongst the patient population, and usually require physician consultation. Metabolic health is monitored and managed per protocol when patients are prescribed second generation antipsychotics. Surgical problems arising from self-harm are common and include laceration, wound interference, ingestion of objects, and insertion of objects.
The Physical Environment
Authors: Ho Stephen , Hoare Steve
Published: June 2022

Many readers will have worked in facilities that were once state-of-the-art in design, but have become unfit for the purpose. Capacity to modify the physical environment of a psychiatric unit in response to changing clinical need or practice is essential. The Walker Unit differs from adolescent units at other locations because of its larger internal footprint and greater secure outdoor space. Substantive modifications to the Walker Unit over time have included requisitioning of space to create a learning centre, modification of some bedrooms to create a parent retreat, the establishment of a sensory room, and repurposing of the seclusion area to become a de-escalation suite. The chapter will describe the physical environment of the Walker Unit referenced to Australasian Health Facility Guidelines, and current best practice.
Postscript: Responding to the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Ho Stephen , Feijo Isabelle , Hazell Philip
Published: June 2022

The risk posed to health facilities by COVID-19 is well recognised. From the first wave of infections in 2020, protective measures have been in place. In accordance with health district policy, staff and visitors were screened before entry to the Walker Unit. Along with the rest of the world, Walker staff became familiar with conducting meetings through online platforms such as Zoom. Compliance with ever changing infection control directives was a challenge, indeed a threat to the viability of the programme. There have been direct impacts on the operation of the Walker Unit, with travel and visiting severely restricted. The chapter will outline the adaptations made to the Walker programme through the pandemic.
Coupled fibromodulin and SOX2 signaling as a critical regulator of metastatic outgrowth in melanoma
Authors: Oria Victor O. , Zhang Hongyi , Zito Christopher R. , Rane Chetan K. , Ma Xian-Yong , Provance Olivia K. , Tran Thuy T. , Adeniran Adebowale , Kluger Yuval , Sznol Mario , Bosenberg Marcus W. , Kluger Harriet M. , Jilaveanu Lucia B.
Published: June 2022

We aimed to study mechanisms controlling metastatic outgrowth of melanoma into clinically relevant lesions, a critical process responsible for the majority of melanoma deaths. To this end, we developed novel in vivo models and identified molecular events that can be ascribed to their distinct phenotypes, indolent or highly metastatic. Induction of a proliferative state at distant sites was associated with high levels of the stem-like/progenitor marker, SOX2, and required the upregulation of FMOD, an extracellular matrix component, which modulates tumor–stroma interactions. Functional studies revealed a possible link between FMOD and SOX2; dual FMOD and SOX2 silencing nearly abolished brain metastasis and had a similar effect on distant metastasis to other sites. Our in vitro data suggests that FMOD and SOX2 cooperation plays an important role in tumor vasculogenic mimicry. Furthermore, we found that FMOD and SOX2 functional roles might converge at the activation of transcriptional co-factors YAP and TAZ, possibly via crosstalk with the tumor suppressor Hippo pathway. Finally, high expression of both genes in patient specimens predicted early development of brain metastasis. Thus, our study identifies FMOD and SOX2 cooperation as a novel regulatory mechanism that might be linked functionally to melanoma metastatic competence.
Bidirectional regulation of synaptic SUMOylation by Group 1 metabotropic glutamate receptors
Authors: Pronot Marie , Poupon Gwénola , Pizzamiglio Lara , Prieto Marta , Chato-Astrain Isabel , Lacagne Iliona , Schorova Lenka , Folci Alessandra , Brau Frédéric , Martin Stéphane
Published: June 2022

SUMOylation is a post-translational modification essential to cell homeostasis. A tightly controlled equilibrium between SUMOylation and deSUMOylation processes is also critical to the neuronal function including neurotransmitter release and synaptic transmission and plasticity. Disruption of the SUMOylation homeostasis in neurons is associated with several neurological disorders. The balance between the SUMOylation and deSUMOylation of substrate proteins is maintained by a group of deSUMOylation enzymes called SENPs. We previously showed that the activation of type 5 metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGlu5R) first triggers a rapid increase in synaptic SUMOylation and then upon the sustained activation of these receptors, the deSUMOylase activity of SENP1 allows the increased synaptic SUMOylation to get back to basal levels. Here, we combined the use of pharmacological tools with subcellular fractionation and live-cell imaging of individual hippocampal dendritic spines to demonstrate that the synaptic accumulation of the deSUMOylation enzyme SENP1 is bidirectionally controlled by the activation of type 1 mGlu1 and mGlu5 receptors. Indeed, the pharmacological blockade of mGlu1R activation during type 1 mGluR stimulation leads to a faster and greater accumulation of SENP1 at synapses indicating that mGlu1R acts as a brake to the mGlu5R-dependent deSUMOylation process at the post-synapse. Altogether, our findings reveal that type 1 mGluRs work in opposition to dynamically tune the homeostasis of SUMOylation at the mammalian synapse.
Dynamics of collaboration among high-growth firms: results from an agent-based policy simulation
Authors: Varga-Csajkás Anna , Sebestyén Tamás , Varga Attila
Published: June 2022

This study aims to show how supporting new business formation could promote the emergence of new ties in the knowledge network. Stimulating start-ups is conducive to the innovation system and economic development, however, we show how it has additional beneficial effects by the increasing the density of the innovation network. An innovation network is a complex socioeconomic phenomenon, which emerges from the decisions of many heterogeneous agents, that justifies the use of an agent-based model (ABM). We introduce an application of an ABM that is appropriate for simulating network formation among organizations. Agents are placed in the two-dimensional abstract social space where they are moving toward each other to find cooperation partners, following the gravity principle. The attraction is determined by the mass and the distance of agents. These parameters are specified by regression analysis, the result of which shows that the geographical, social, and technological distance has a negative impact on innovation-related cooperation. For the empirical underpinning of the model, we used survey data on the Hungarian high-growth firms’ (known as gazelles) egocentric network that contains information about innovation-purpose cooperation.
MOHV21: a least squares combination of five global Moho depth models
Authors: Sjöberg L. E. , Abrehdary M.
Published: June 2022

The purpose of this study is to determine MOHV21, a Moho depth model based on an optimal combination of five global seismic and gravimetric-isostatic models of Moho depth by a weighted least squares approach at a resolution of 1° × 1°. For proper weighting among the data, the study starts with determining (mostly missing) standard errors and correlations among the models. The standard errors among the input models range from 1.0 (in Brazil) to 6.8 km (in Peru) and from 0.1 (in Huna Bay) to 6.0 km (in East Pacific Ridge) for Moho depth on land and ocean, respectively. The correlations among the five models range between − 0.99 and + 0.90. The Moho depths for MOHV21 at land regions vary between 14.5 (at the Horn of Africa) and 75 km (in the Himalayas) and between 6.6 (in the Greenland Sea) and 51.8 (in the Gulf of Bothnia) for land and ocean regions, respectively (However, note that, the Gulf of Bothnia belongs to continental crust, while the oceanic crust is generally within 20 km). The standard errors are generally within a few km but reaches 6.8 km (9%) in the highest mountains. The shallow Moho depths along mid-ocean ridges are well exposed in the model. Notable regional Moho highs are visualized in the Tarim basin in NW China of 59 ± 6.5 km and in Central Finland of 57 ± 4.7 km. A comparison of MOHV21 with a mosaic of regional models shows large differences reaching ± 25 km in Africa, Antarctic, and parts of S. America, while the differences are relatively modest in those parts of oceans that are available in the regional models.
Current RT-qPCR to detect SARS-CoV-2 may give positive results for related coronaviruses
Authors: Martínez-Murcia Antonio , García-Sirera Adrián , Navarro Aaron , Pérez Laura
Published: June 2022

Some weeks after the first CoVID-19 outbreak, the World Health Organization published some real-time PCR (qPCR) protocols developed by different health reference centers. These qPCR designs are being used worldwide to detect SARS-CoV-2 in the population, to monitor the prevalence of the virus during the pandemic. Moreover, some of these protocols to detect SARS-CoV-2 have widely been applied to environmental samples for epidemiological surveillance purposes. In the present work, the specificity of these currently used RT-qPCR designs was validated in vitro using SARS-CoV-2 and highly related coronaviral genomic sequences and compared to performance of the commercially available GPS™ CoVID-19 dtec-RT-qPCR Test. Assays performed with SARS-CoV-2-related genomes showed positive amplification when using some of these qPCR methods, indicating they may give SARS-CoV-2 false positives. This finding may be particularly relevant for SARS-CoV-2 monitoring of environmental samples, where an unknown pool of phylogenetically close-related viruses may exist.
Slice regular functions in several variables
Authors: Ghiloni Riccardo , Perotti Alessandro
Published: June 2022

In this paper, we lay the foundations of the theory of slice regular functions in several (non-commuting) variables ranging in any real alternative $$^*$$

∗

-algebra, including quaternions, octonions and Clifford algebras. This higher dimensional function theory is an extension of the classical theory of holomorphic functions of several complex variables. It is based on the construction of a family of commuting complex structures on $${\mathbb {R}}^{2^n}$$

R

2
n

. One of the relevant aspects of the theory is the validity of a Cauchy-type integral formula and the existence of ordered power series expansions. The theory includes all polynomials and power series with ordered variables and right coefficients in the algebra. We study the real dimension of the zero set of polynomials in the quaternionic and octonionic cases and give some results about the zero set of polynomials with Clifford coefficients. In particular, we show that a nonconstant polynomial always has a non empty zero set.
A randomised, open-label, cross-over clinical study to evaluate the pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic and safety and tolerability profiles of tobacco-free oral nicotine pouches relative to cigarettes
Authors: Chapman Fiona , McDermott Simon , Rudd Kathryn , Taverner Victoria , Stevenson Matthew , Chaudhary Nveed , Reichmann Kerstin , Thompson Joseph , Nahde Thomas , O’Connell Grant
Published: June 2022

Rationale

Tobacco harm reduction (THR) involves encouraging adult smokers who would otherwise continue to smoke to transition to less harmful forms of nicotine delivery. These products must offer adult smokers reduced exposure to chemicals associated with tobacco combustion, satisfactory blood plasma nicotine levels and serve as an acceptable alternative. The most recent THR innovation is tobacco-free oral nicotine pouches.

Objectives

This study aimed to compare pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic and safety and tolerability profiles of two nicotine pouch variants (ZoneX #2 (5.8 mg nicotine/pouch); ZoneX #3 (10.1 mg nicotine/pouch)) with cigarette to assess the pouches’ THR potential.

Methods

This was a controlled use, randomised, open-label, cross-over clinical study with 24 healthy adult traditional tobacco users. Pharmacokinetic (plasma nicotine levels; up to 8 h post-use), pharmacodynamic (urge to smoke, product liking; up to 4 h post-use) and short-term safety and tolerability profiles were assessed.

Results

Distinct nicotine pouch pharmacokinetic profiles indicated nicotine absorption via the oral mucosa. Plasma nicotine levels were lower, and time to peak slower, for the nicotine pouches compared to cigarette (Cmax cigarette: 11.6 ng/ml vs. #2: 5.2 ng/ml, p < 0.0001; #3: 7.9 ng/ml, p < 0.0003) (Tmax cigarette: 8.6 min vs. #2: 26 min; #3: 22 min). All products effectively reduced subjects’ urge to smoke and presented favourable product liking scores; nicotine pouches were also well tolerated following short-term use (no serious adverse events).

Conclusions

Overall, the assessed ZoneX nicotine pouches may offer an acceptable alternative for adult smokers to achieve satisfactory levels of nicotine delivery and, based on the pharmacokinetic parameters and under the study conditions, likely have a lower abuse liability and addictive potential for current adult smokers compared to continued cigarette smoking.

Clinical trial identifier: NCT04891406 (clinicaltrials.gov).
Validation of the radiological detection of the chorda-facial angle: impact on the round window accessibility during pediatric cochlear implantation
Authors: Elzayat Saad , Elfarargy Haitham H. , Lotfy Rasha , Soltan Islam , Lasheen Hisham N. , Margani Valerio , Covelli Edoardo , Barbara Maurizio , Mandour Mahmoud
Published: June 2022

Objectives

The facial recess, an essential landmark for the posterior tympanotomy approach, is limited by the facial nerve and the chorda tympani, with a complicated relationship. This study tried to find the most appropriate radiological method to evaluate the chorda-facial angle (CFA). We also checked the effect of this angle on the round window accessibility during cochlear implantation.

Methods

It was a retrospective study that included cochlear implant surgeries of 237 pediatric patients, from September 2016 to April 2021. Two physicians evaluated the CFA in the para-sagittal cut of the preoperative HRCT. The round window accessibility was assessed in the unedited surgery videos.

Results

The CFA ranged from 21° to 35° with a mean of 27.14 ± 3.5°. It was detected in all cases with a high agreement between the two CT reviewers’ measurements. The CFA differed significantly between the accessible group and the group with difficult accessibility (p value < 0.001). Spearman’s correlation coefficient revealed a strong correlation between the CFA and the intraoperative round accessibility. 25.5° was the best cutoff point; below this angle, difficult accessibility into the RW was expected, with high sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy

Conclusions

Our study on a relatively large number of cases provided a precise, valid, reliable, and applicable method to evaluate the CFA in the HRCT scan. We found a significant-close relation between the CFA and the round window accessibility; the difficulty increased with a need for posterior tympanotomy modification when the angle decreased.

Key Points

• Radiological detection of the chorda-facial angle was always problematic, without a previous straightforward method in the literature.

• We used the para-sagittal cut of the high-resolution CT scans to evaluate the CFA. This cut was beneficial to seeing the chorda tympani nerve in every examined case. There was a high agreement between the two CT reviewers’ measurements.

• Preoperative evaluation of the CFA in the HRCT accurately predicted the round window accessibility. Patients with CFA less than 25.5°were expected to have difficult accessibility into the round window during cochlear implantation.
Ensemble mapping as an alternative to baseline seafloor sediment mapping and monitoring
Authors: Galvez Daphnie S. , Papenmeier Svenja , Sander Lasse , Bartholomä Alexander , Wiltshire Karen Helen
Published: June 2022

Seafloor sediment mapping traditionally relies on the experience and expertise of practitioners to classify sediment classes based on acoustic backscatter data and ground-truth information. However, recent advancements in automated seafloor mapping present a major development in objective methods that offer practical application for seafloor mapping and monitoring campaigns. In this study, a class-specific approach of ensemble modelling (ensemble mapping) was used to classify the sediment classes of a large-scale seafloor area (1550 km2) in the western Sylt Outer Reef, German North Sea. A pixel-by-pixel comparison of the modelled map and manually digitized map was also conducted to assess the efficiency of the ensemble mapping approach. The resulting seafloor sediment map, with an overall accuracy of 73%, demonstrates five sediment classes that represent most of the seabed of the German North Sea. The manually classified and ensembled maps were 63% identical, but mismatches were observed in the transitional boundaries of soft sediment classes and in stony areas that were not predicted in manual classification. The inconsistencies between the two maps was attributed to the different interpretation of sediment boundaries, the simplification of the sediment classification scheme, and the ability of ensemble mapping to classify more areas than manual classification. This study found that ensemble mapping performs better in characterizing coarse materials and produces maps that are comparable to the maps produced by manual classification, while the production time and degree of subjectivity in the analysis are minimal. Hence, ensemble mapping is a viable alternative to create baseline seafloor sediment maps that can be used for environmental monitoring and resource planning.
MOG encephalomyelitis after vaccination against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2): case report and comprehensive review of the literature
Authors: Jarius S. , Bieber N. , Haas J. , Wildemann B.
Published: June 2022

Background

In around 20% of cases, myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) immunoglobulin (IgG)-associated encephalomyelitis (MOG-EM; also termed MOG antibody-associated disease, MOGAD) first occurs in a postinfectious or postvaccinal setting.

Objective

To report a case of MOG-EM with onset after vaccination with the Pfizer BioNTech COVID-19 mRNA vaccine BNT162b2 (Comirnaty®) and to provide a comprehensive review of the epidemiological, clinical, radiological, electrophysiological and laboratory features as well as treatment outcomes of all published patients with SARS-CoV-2 vaccination-associated new-onset MOG-EM.

Methods

Case report and review of the literature.

Results

In our patient, MOG-IgG-positive (serum 1:1000, mainly IgG1 and IgG2; CSF 1:2; MOG-specific antibody index < 4) unilateral optic neuritis (ON) occurred 10 days after booster vaccination with BNT162b2, which had been preceded by two immunizations with the vector-based Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine ChAdOx1-S/ChAdOx1-nCoV-19 (AZD1222). High-dose steroid treatment with oral tapering resulted in complete recovery. Overall, 20 cases of SARS-CoV2 vaccination-associated MOG-EM were analysed (median age at onset 43.5 years, range 28–68; female to male ratio = 1:1.2). All cases occurred in adults and almost all after immunization with ChAdOx1-S/ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 (median interval 13 days, range 7–32), mostly after the first dose. In 70% of patients, more than one CNS region (spinal cord, brainstem, supratentorial brain, optic nerve) was affected at onset, in contrast to a much lower rate in conventional MOG-EM in adults, in which isolated ON is predominant at onset and ADEM-like phenotypes are rare. The cerebrospinal fluid white cell count (WCC) exceeded 100 cells/μl in 5/14 (36%) patients with available data (median peak WCC 58 cells/μl in those with pleocytosis; range 6–720). Severe disease with tetraparesis, paraplegia, functional blindness, brainstem involvement and/or bladder/bowel dysfunction and a high lesion load was common, and treatment escalation with plasma exchange (N = 9) and/or prolonged IVMP therapy was required in 50% of cases. Complete or partial recovery was achieved in the majority of patients, but residual symptoms were significant in some. MOG-IgG remained detectable in 7/7 cases after 3 or 6 months.

Conclusions

MOG-EM with postvaccinal onset was mostly observed after vaccination with ChAdOx1-S/ChAdOx1 nCoV-19. Attack severity was often high at onset. Escalation of immunotherapy was frequently required. MOG-IgG persisted in the long term.