bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DNA barcoding of the German green supralittoral zone indicates the distribution and phenotypic plasticity of Blidingia species and reveals Blidingia cornuta sp. nov.
Authors: Steinhagen Sophie , Düsedau Luisa , Weinberger Florian
Published: January 2021

In temperate and subarctic regions of the Northern Hemisphere, green algae of the genus Blidingia are a substantial and environment‐shaping component of the upper and mid‐supralittoral zones. However, taxonomic knowledge on these important green algae is still sparse. In the present study, the molecular diversity and distribution of Blidingia species in the German State of Schleswig‐Holstein was examined for the first time, including Baltic Sea and Wadden Sea coasts and the off‐shore island of Helgoland (Heligoland). In total, three entities were delimited by DNA barcoding, and their respective distributions were verified (in decreasing order of abundance: Blidingia marginata, Blidingia cornuta sp. nov. and Blidingia minima). Our molecular data revealed strong taxonomic discrepancies with historical species concepts, which were mainly based on morphological and ontogenetic characters. Using a combination of molecular, morphological and ontogenetic approaches, we were able to disentangle previous mis‐identifications of B. minima and demonstrate that the distribution of B. minima is more restricted than expected within the examined area. Blidingia minima, the type of the genus name Blidingia, is epitypified within this study by material collected at the type locality Helgoland. In contrast with B. minima, B. marginata shows a higher phenotypic plasticity and is more widely distributed in the study area than previously assumed. The third entity, Blidingia cornuta sp. nov., is clearly delimited from other described Blidingia species, due to unique characters in its ontogenetic development and morphology as well as by its tufA and rbcL sequences.
Forging C‐SeCF3 Bonds with Trifluoromethyl Tolueneselenosulfonate under Visible‐Light
Authors: Louvel Dan , Ghiazza Clément , Debrauwer Vincent , Khrouz Lhoussain , Monnereau Cyrille , Tlili Anis
Published: January 2021

This account highlights some of our recent work on photoinduced trifluoromethylselenolation reactions. This research program relies primarily on the design of a new key shelf‐stable selenating reagent that can be involved in various radical processes In particular, we demonstrated that trifluoromethylselenolation of arenes, alkenes, alkynes as well as aliphatic organic building blocks can be readily achieved under visible‐light irradiation. Mechanistic investigations based on 19F NMR studies, EPR spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry and luminescence studies allowed us to shed the light on the different proposed mechanisms in the designed methodologies. The applicative potential of these strategies was further demonstrated through the synthesis of bioactive analogue containing SeCF3 motif.
Enhancing your ‘webside’ manner: communication during COVID‐19
Authors: Fallowfield Dame Lesley
Published: January 2021

Virtual communication and interacting with patients while partially hidden behind a mask are now part of everyday clinical practice as a result of COVID‐19. Healthcare professionals need to develop new strategies to ensure that non‐verbal cues and the reassurance that subtle body language can provide are not compromised.
Men, deprivation andCOVID‐19
Authors: Baker Peter
Published: January 2021

Men living in deprivation are much more likely to die from all causes, and specifically as a result of COVID‐19 infection, than men who are least deprived.

Here the author argues that both short‐term and long‐term measures are needed to address this inequality, and that the pandemic has created a real opportunity to ‘build back better’.
Interaction of dendrimers with the immune system: An insight into cancer nanotheranostics
Authors: Gao Yue , Shen Mingwu , Shi Xiangyang
Published: January 2021

The immune system is a network of defense mechanisms, made up of organs, tissues, and diversified immune cells, with the mission of detecting and attacking invading pathogens. Cancer immunotherapy, which triggers effective anticancer responses via the regulation or alteration of the immune system, has emerged as one novel powerful strategy to fight cancer in contrast to the conventional resorts including surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. With the recent rapid development of nanomedicine, more opportunities are afforded to achieve highly efficient cancer immunotherapy. Dendrimers present a category of nano‐sized macromolecules with highly‐branched three‐dimensional structure, favorable biocompatibility, and tunable surface functionality. Various kinds of functionalized dendrimers and dendrimer‐based nanohybrids have been explored in the treatment and diagnosis of cancer, and they have recently been proven to be promising in cancer immunotherapy. Herein we concisely review the interesting immunomodulatory effects of dendrimers, in particular the recent advances in dendrimer‐facilitated cancer immunotherapy and cancer immunity visualization, and clarify the possible future perspectives for the design of dendrimer‐based cancer immunotheranostics.
Evaluation of a small volume oil‐free in vitro production system for bovine embryos
Authors: Blaschka Carina , Diers Sophie , Aravina Mariya , Geisler Swantje , Schuler Gerhard , Tetens Jens
Published: January 2021

Background:

Embryos are usually produced in culture systems with an oil overlay, which conveys protection against the evaporation of water and microbial contamination. The oil can also release toxic substances and absorb essential components, such as hormones, which adversely affect the quality of the oocytes and the development of embryos in vitro.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to validate an oil‐free bovine in vitro production (IVP) system.

Method:

Cumulus–oocyte complexes collected from abattoir‐derived ovaries were matured, fertilized and cultured employing a standard system. The quantity of medium in both groups (with and without an oil overlay) and throughout all stages of IVP was maintained at a volume of 100 μl. The oil group was covered with paraffin oil. The maturation stage of oocytes was assessed using fluorescence staining after 24 hr and developmental stages of embryos were evaluated on day 8. The expanded day 8 blastocysts were assessed by live–dead staining.

Results:

Oocytes matured in the absence of an oil overlay had significantly higher maturation rates when compared against matured oocytes in medium with an oil overlay. Steroid concentration is higher in medium after maturation without oil cover. The developmental rate was significantly higher after culture without oil overlay. The total cell number and the live–dead ratio was not significantly different. The osmolality did not differ between both groups during maturation and slightly decreased during culture without oil.

Conclusion:

Based on the current study, bovine oil‐free IVP systems can be suggested as an alternative to oil‐covered medium.
Recovery of greywater thermal energy with a wire on a tube heat exchanger attached to a dishwasher
Authors: Selimli Selcuk , Abajja Khaled Mohamed Ashnaaf
Published: January 2021

Heat recovery and energy savings from the graywater of household appliances, such as dishwashers and washing machines, can encourage people to avoid the unhealthily long hours of hand dishwashing. In this experimental study, the size of energy saving that could be obtained from a domestic dishwasher with a wire on a tube heat exchanger attached was investigated. The study results validated that heat recovery from graywater is possible and equivalent to annual electricity savings of 53.48 kWh. The efficiency of the dishwasher can be increased to approximately 16% by saving energy, and the economic value of efficiency increase can be $5.88 per year. With all fittings, pipes, and fixing equipment, the heat exchanger cost was also calculated to be $35 per machine, and the payback period is 5.94 years per machine. The payback period can be shortened by achieving lower production costs with mass production. Furthermore, the possible reduction of CO2 emission by saving electrical energy was estimated to be 26.74 kg. In Turkey, nearly 8 million units of dishwashers are in domestic use, the size of the annual energy saving can be 427.84 GWh, and the economic value is $47.04 M. By energy saving, approximately 213.92 kt/year less CO2 released.

Practitioner points

Graywater heat recovery with a wire on a tube heat exchanger was studied experimentally.

The energy consumption and processing time of a household dishwasher is shortened by graywater heat recovery.

With the decrease in energy consumption, a reduction was achieved in the CO2 emission released during the energy generation.
Electron‐Deficient Triruthenium Clusters Containing Small Bite‐Angle PNP‐Ligands
Authors: Böttcher Hans‐Christian , Heinemann Jan
Published: January 2021

The ketyl‐induced reaction of [Ru3(CO)12] with N,N‐bis(diphenylphosphanyl)n‐propylamine (dpppra) in THF resulted in the expected metal cluster [Ru3(CO)10(μ‐dpppra)] (2) in high yield. Compound 2 reacted in refluxing heptane with PBut2H affording a new derivative of the rare type of 46‐valence electron clusters [Ru3(μ‐CO)(CO)4(μ‐dpppra)(μ3‐H)(μ‐H)(μ‐PtBu2)2] (3) in good yield. The related cluster [Ru3(μ‐CO)(CO)4(μ‐dppa)(μ3‐H)(μ‐H)(μ‐PtBu2)2] (4) (dppa=bis(diphenylphosphanyl)amine) was obtained in a similar manner in comparable yields. Compounds 2, 3, and 4 were spectroscopically characterized and their molecular structures in the solid were confirmed by single‐crystal X‐ray analysis.
An evaluation of interactive projections as digital enrichment for orangutans
Authors: Carter Marcus , Sherwen Sally , Webber Sarah
Published: January 2021

Digital technologies are increasingly being incorporated into the provision of enrichment for captive primates, ranging from the ad‐hoc use of iPads to specifically designed hardware installed in the design of new exhibits. In this article, we present a digital enrichment system that utilizes a novel approach with interactive projections, installed in the orangutan exhibit at Melbourne Zoo. While previous research into orangutan enrichment has involved reinforcement using food rewards, this study is the first investigation of digital enrichment for orangutans that does not involve food rewards. Rather, the interactive projections were designed to provide intrinsically rewarding environmental enrichment, instead of a cheaper or more variable way of delivering food. Our observations of orangutans' use of the system supports the approach of using interactive projections, finding that it is more responsive than capacitance or resistive based touch‐screen technologies to the variety of ways that orangutans “touch”: with whole hands, feet, faces, and with objects. We also present the results from a preliminary study into the effect of this enrichment into orangutan behavior which found presence or use of the device did not affect time spent engaged in the majority of behaviors of the individuals studied.
CP violating hW+W− coupling in the Standard Model and beyond
Authors: Huang Da , Morais António P. , Santos Rui
Published: January 2021

Abstract

Inspired by the recent development in determining the property of the observed Higgs boson, we explore the CP-violating (CPV) $$ -{c}_{\mathrm{CPV}}{hW}^{+\mu \nu}{\tilde{W}}_{\mu \nu}^{-}/\upsilon $$
−

c
CPV

hW

+
μν

W
˜

μν
−

/
υ
coupling in the Standard Model (SM) and beyond, where W±μν and $$ {\tilde{W}}^{\pm \mu \nu} $$

W
˜

±
μν

denote the W-boson field strength and its dual. To begin with, we show that the leading-order SM contribution to this CPV vertex appears at two-loop level. By summing over the quark flavor indices in the two loop integrals analytically, we can estimate the order of the corresponding Wilson coefficient to be $$ {c}_{\mathrm{CPV}}^{\mathrm{SM}}\sim \mathcal{O}\left({10}^{-23}\right) $$

c
CPV
SM

∼
O

10

−
23

, which is obviously too small to be probed at the LHC and planned future colliders. Then we investigate this CPV hW+W− interaction in two Beyond the Standard Model benchmark models: the left-right model and the complex 2-Higgs doublet model (C2HDM). Unlike what happens for the SM, the dominant contributions in both models arise at the one-loop level, and the corresponding Wilson coefficient can be as large as of $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(10−9) in the former model and of $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(10−3) for the latter. In light of such a large CPV effect in the hW+W− coupling, we also give the formulae for the leading one-loop contribution to the related CPV hZZ effective operator in the complex 2-Higgs doublet model. The order of magnitude of the Wilson coefficients in the C2HDM may be within reach of the high-luminosity LHC or planned future colliders.
Predictions for axion couplings from ALP cogenesis
Authors: Co Raymond T. , Hall Lawrence J. , Harigaya Keisuke
Published: January 2021

Abstract

Adding an axion-like particle (ALP) to the Standard Model, with a field velocity in the early universe, simultaneously explains the observed baryon and dark matter densities. This requires one or more couplings between the ALP and photons, nucleons, and/or electrons that are predicted as functions of the ALP mass. These predictions arise because the ratio of dark matter to baryon densities is independent of the ALP field velocity, allowing a correlation between the ALP mass, ma, and decay constant, fa. The predicted couplings are orders of magnitude larger than those for the QCD axion and for dark matter from the conventional ALP misalignment mechanism. As a result, this scheme, ALP cogenesis, is within reach of future experimental ALP searches from the lab and stellar objects, and for dark matter.
Geometric secret sharing in a model of Hawking radiation
Authors: Balasubramanian Vijay , Kar Arjun , Parrikar Onkar , Sárosi Gábor , Ugajin Tomonori
Published: January 2021

Abstract

We consider a black hole in three dimensional AdS space entangled with an auxiliary radiation system. We model the microstates of the black hole in terms of a field theory living on an end of the world brane behind the horizon, and allow this field theory to itself have a holographic dual geometry. This geometry is also a black hole since entanglement of the microstates with the radiation leaves them in a mixed state. This “inception black hole” can be purified by entanglement through a wormhole with an auxiliary system which is naturally identified with the external radiation, giving a realization of the ER=EPR scenario. In this context, we propose an extension of the Ryu-Takayanagi (RT) formula, in which extremal surfaces computing entanglement entropy are allowed to pass through the brane into its dual geometry. This new rule reproduces the Page curve for evaporating black holes, consistently with the recently proposed “island formula”. We then separate the radiation system into pieces. Our extended RT rule shows that the entanglement wedge of the union of radiation subsystems covers the black hole interior at late times, but the union of entanglement wedges of the subsystems may not. This result points to a secret sharing scheme in Hawking radiation wherein reconstruction of certain regions in the interior is impossible with any subsystem of the radiation, but possible with all of it.
LAURENT POLYNOMIAL LANDAU–GINZBURG MODELS FOR COMINUSCULE HOMOGENEOUS SPACES
Authors: SPACEK PETER
Published: January 2021

In this article we construct Laurent polynomial Landau–Ginzburg models for cominuscule homogeneous spaces. These Laurent polynomial potentials are defined on a particular algebraic torus inside the Lie-theoretic mirror model constructed for arbitrary homogeneous spaces in [Rie08]. The Laurent polynomial takes a similar shape to the one given in [Giv96] for projective complete intersections, i.e., it is the sum of the toric coordinates plus a quantum term. We also give a general enumeration method for the summands in the quantum term of the potential in terms of the quiver introduced in [CMP08], associated to the Langlands dual homogeneous space. This enumeration method generalizes the use of Young diagrams for Grassmannians and Lagrangian Grassmannians and can be defined type-independently. The obtained Laurent polynomials coincide with the results obtained so far in [PRW16] and [PR13] for quadrics and Lagrangian Grassmannians. We also obtain new Laurent polynomial Landau–Ginzburg models for orthogonal Grassmannians, the Cayley plane and the Freudenthal variety.
Epidemiology of knife carrying among young British men
Authors: Coid Jeremy , Zhang Yingzhe , Zhang Yamin , Hu Junmei , Thomson Lindsay , Bebbington Paul , Bhui Kamaldeep
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Knife carrying has caused considerable public concern in the UK. But little is known of the epidemiology and characteristics of men who carry knives. We investigated associations with socioeconomic deprivation, area-level factors, and psychiatric morbidity.

Methods

Cross-sectional surveys of 5005 British men, 18–34 years, oversampling Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) men, lower social grades, and in London Borough of Hackney and Glasgow East. Participants completed questionnaires covering violent behaviour and psychiatric morbidity using standardised self-report instruments. Socioeconomic deprivation measured at small area level.

Results

Prevalence of knife carrying was 5.5% (4.8–6.9) and similar among white and BME subgroups. However, prevalence was twice the national rate in Glasgow East, and four times higher among Black men in Hackney, both areas with high levels of background violence and gang activity. Knife carrying was associated with multiple social problems, attitudes encouraging violence, and psychiatric morbidity, including antisocial personality disorder (AOR 9.94 95% CI 7.28–13.56), drug dependence (AOR 2.96 95% CI 1.90–4.66), and paranoid ideation (AOR 6.05 95% CI 4.47–8.19). There was no evidence of a linear relationship with socioeconomic deprivation.

Conclusion

Men who carry knives represent an important public health problem with high levels of health service use. It is not solely a criminal justice issue. Rates are increased in areas where street gangs are active. Contact with the criminal justice system provides opportunity for targeted violence prevention interventions involving engagement with integrated psychiatric, substance misuse, and criminal justice agencies.
Makulopathie bei Sichelzellerkrankung
Authors: Bachmeier Isabel , Blecha Christiane , Föll Jürgen , Wolff Daniel , Jägle Herbert
Published: January 2021

Hintergrund

Die Sichelzellerkrankung (SZE) ist eine hereditäre Hämoglobinopathie, die durch rezidivierende vasookklusive Episoden zur Mikrozirkulationsstörung verschiedener Organsysteme mit teils letalem Ausgang führt. Bei der okulären Manifestation der SZE ist am bekanntesten die periphere Sichelzellretinopathie (SZR). Unabhängig davon kann es bereits früh im Krankheitsverlauf zur Sichelzellmakulopathie (SZM) kommen.

Methoden

Review der internationalen und deutschsprachigen Literatur zur okulären Beteiligung bei SZE mit Fokus auf die SZR und SZM sowie Überblick über aktuelle systemische Therapieansätze bei SZE anlässlich der Vorstellung zweier Patienten mit HbSS-SZE.

Ergebnis und Schlussfolgerung

Im Gegensatz zur SZR ist die SZM mit temporaler Verdünnung der inneren Netzhautschichten erst in den letzten 5 Jahren mit der Einführung von SD-OCT und OCTA vermehrt in die Literatur eingegangen. Unabhängig vom Vorliegen einer SZR kann es immerhin bei etwa der Hälfte der Patienten bereits früh im Krankheitsverlauf zu einer SZM kommen. Das Krankheitsbild wird auch in Deutschland durch den Fortschritt der systemischen Therapiemöglichkeiten und aufgrund von Migration präsenter werden. Durch Wissen um diese Komplikation der SZE kann eine frühzeitige Diagnosestellung erfolgen und unnötige Diagnostik vermieden werden.
Steroid hormones and human choriogonadotropin influence the distribution of alpha6-integrin and desmoplakin 1 in gland-like endometrial epithelial spheroids
Authors: Buck V. U. , Kohlen M. T. , Sternberg A. K. , Rösing B. , Neulen J. , Leube R. E. , Classen-Linke I.
Published: January 2021

In human glandular endometrial epithelial cells, desmosomal and adherens junction proteins have been shown to extend from a subapically restricted lateral position to the entire lateral membrane during the implantation window of the menstrual cycle. Similarly, a menstrual cycle stage-dependent redistribution of the extracellular matrix adhesion protein α6-integrin has been reported. These changes are believed to be important for endometrial receptiveness and successful embryo implantation. To prove the hypothesis that steroid hormones and human choriogonadotropin can induce the redistribution of these adhesion molecules, we used the human endometrial cell line Ishikawa in a 3D culture system. Gland-like spheroids were grown in reconstituted basement membrane (Matrigel™). The lumen-bearing spheroids were treated for 2 or 4 days with ovarian steroids or human choriogonadotropin and then assessed by immunofluorescence microscopy. In addition, human endometrial biopsies were obtained from patients, who were in therapy for assisted reproductive technology, and were examined in parallel. Lateral redistribution of the desmosomal plaque protein desmoplakin 1 was observed in the spheroids treated either with progesterone, medroxyprogesterone acetate or human choriogonadotropin. Furthermore, the extracellular matrix adhesion protein α6-integrin showed an increased lateral membrane localization upon gestagen stimulation in the 3D culture system. The results of this study demonstrate that the 3D endometrial Ishikawa cell culture might be suited as an experimental model system to prove the effect of hormonal changes like those occurring during the window of implantation.
Relations between hemispheric asymmetries of grey matter and auditory processing of spoken syllables in 281 healthy adults
Authors: Guadalupe Tulio , Kong Xiang-Zhen , Akkermans Sophie E. A. , Fisher Simon E. , Francks Clyde
Published: January 2021

Most people have a right-ear advantage for the perception of spoken syllables, consistent with left hemisphere dominance for speech processing. However, there is considerable variation, with some people showing left-ear advantage. The extent to which this variation is reflected in brain structure remains unclear. We tested for relations between hemispheric asymmetries of auditory processing and of grey matter in 281 adults, using dichotic listening and voxel-based morphometry. This was the largest study of this issue to date. Per-voxel asymmetry indexes were derived for each participant following registration of brain magnetic resonance images to a template that was symmetrized. The asymmetry index derived from dichotic listening was related to grey matter asymmetry in clusters of voxels corresponding to the amygdala and cerebellum lobule VI. There was also a smaller, non-significant cluster in the posterior superior temporal gyrus, a region of auditory cortex. These findings contribute to the mapping of asymmetrical structure–function links in the human brain and suggest that subcortical structures should be investigated in relation to hemispheric dominance for speech processing, in addition to auditory cortex.
The soluble glutathione transferase superfamily: role of Mu class in triclabendazole sulphoxide challenge in Fasciola hepatica
Authors: Stuart Rebekah B. , Zwaanswijk Suzanne , MacKintosh Neil D. , Witikornkul Boontarikaan , Brophy Peter M. , Morphew Russell M.
Published: January 2021

Fasciola hepatica (liver fluke), a significant threat to food security, causes global economic loss for the livestock industry and is re-emerging as a foodborne disease of humans. In the absence of vaccines, treatment control is by anthelmintics; with only triclabendazole (TCBZ) currently effective against all stages of F. hepatica in livestock and humans. There is widespread resistance to TCBZ and its detoxification by flukes might contribute to the mechanism. However, there is limited phase I capacity in adult parasitic helminths with the phase II detoxification system dominated by the soluble glutathione transferase (GST) superfamily. Previous proteomic studies have demonstrated that the levels of Mu class GST from pooled F. hepatica parasites respond under TCBZ-sulphoxide (TCBZ-SO) challenge during in vitro culture ex-host. We have extended this finding by exploiting a sub-proteomic lead strategy to measure the change in the total soluble GST profile (GST-ome) of individual TCBZ-susceptible F. hepatica on TCBZ-SO-exposure in vitro culture. TCBZ-SO exposure demonstrated differential abundance of FhGST-Mu29 and FhGST-Mu26 following affinity purification using both GSH and S-hexyl GSH affinity. Furthermore, a low or weak affinity matrix interacting Mu class GST (FhGST-Mu5) has been identified and recombinantly expressed and represents a new low-affinity Mu class GST. Low-affinity GST isoforms within the GST-ome was not restricted to FhGST-Mu5 with a second likely low-affinity sigma class GST (FhGST-S2) uncovered. This study represents the most complete Fasciola GST-ome generated to date and has supported the potential of subproteomic analyses on individual adult flukes.
Identification of CXCL11 as part of chemokine network controlling skeletal muscle development
Authors: Puchert Malte , Koch Christian , Zieger Konstanze , Engele Jürgen
Published: January 2021

The chemokine, CXCL12, and its receptors, CXCR4 and CXCR7, play pivotal roles during development and maintenance of limb muscles. CXCR7 additionally binds CXCL11, which uses CXCR3 as its prime receptor. Based on this cross-talk, we investigate whether CXCL11 would likewise affect development and/or function of skeletal muscles. Western blotting and immunolabelling demonstrated the developmentally restricted expression of CXCL11 in rat limb muscles, which was contrasted by the continuous expression of its receptors in proliferating and differentiating C2C12 cells as well as in late embryonic to adult rat limb muscle fibres. Consistent with a prime role in muscle formation, functional studies identified CXCL11 as a potent chemoattractant for undifferentiated C2C12 cells and further showed that CXCL11 does neither affect myoblast proliferation and differentiation nor metabolic/catabolic pathways in formed myotubes. The use of selective receptor antagonists unravelled complementary effects of CXCL11 and CXCL12 on C2C12 cell migration, which either require CXCR3/CXCR7 or CXCR4, respectively. Our findings provide new insights into the chemokine network controlling skeletal muscle development and function and, thus, might provide a base for future therapies of muscular diseases.
Roboter im Bergbau – wo liegt der Bedarf?
Authors: Sifferlinger Nikolaus A.
Published: January 2021

Durch die rauen Umgebungsbedingungen untertage und die Gefahr von Steinfall oder sogar Gebirgsschlägen ist der Mensch im Bergbau immer einem Restrisiko ausgesetzt.

Um wirklich automatische Bereiche im Bergbau ohne Personenzutritt betreiben zu können, wird es notwendig sein, Roboter für die Installation, Wartung und Betrieb von Anlagen verfügbar zu haben, die den Menschen vor Ort ersetzen können.

Der Beitrag gibt eine kurze Übersicht über den Bedarf an Robotern im Bergbau, den derzeitigen Zustand und die Auswirkungen auf die Lehre und Forschung an der Montanuniversität Leoben.
Melanization as unfavorable factor in amelanotic melanoma cell biology
Authors: Skoniecka A. , Cichorek M. , Tyminska A. , Pelikant-Malecka I. , Dziewiatkowski J.
Published: January 2021

The biology of three amelanotic melanoma cell lines (Ab, B16F10, and A375) of different species origin was analyzed during in vitro induced melanization in these cells. Melanin production was induced by DMEM medium characterized by a high level of L-tyrosine (a basic amino acid for melanogenesis). The biodiversity of amelanotic melanoma cells was confirmed by their different responses to melanogenesis induction; Ab hamster melanomas underwent intensive melanization, mouse B16F10 darkened slightly, while human A375 cells did not show any change in melanin content. Highly melanized Ab cells entered a cell death pathway, while slight melanization did not influence cell biology in a significant way. The rapid and high melanization of Ab cells induced apoptosis documented by phosphatidylserine externalization, caspase activation, and mitochondrial energetic state decrease. Melanoma cell type, culture medium, and time of incubation should be taken into consideration during amelanotic melanoma cell culture in vitro. L-tyrosine, as a concentration-dependent factor presented in the culture media, could stimulate some amelanotic melanoma cell lines (Ab, B16F10) to melanin production. The presence of melanin should be considered in the examination of antimelanoma compounds in vitro, because induction of melanin may interfere or be helpful in the treatment of amelanotic melanoma.
Psychotherapie-Outcome-Studien bei Psychosen, Depressionen und Persönlichkeitsstörungen im Jugend- und jungen Erwachsenenalter
Authors: Steinmair Dagmar , Prevendar Tamara , Milic Branca , Hochgerner Marian , Löffler-Stastka Henriette
Published: January 2021

Bis zu 50 % aller Jugendlichen entwickeln psychische Symptome, ein Viertel wird psychisch krank. Die Hälfte der psychisch erkrankten Erwachsenen war bereits im Jugendalter von einer psychischen Störung betroffen. Die aufkommende Evidenz für den positiven Effekt früher psychotherapeutischer Interventionen macht Screeningmaßnahmen und begleitende Forschung notwendig.
Adolescents’ perceived barriers and facilitators to seeking and accessing professional help for anxiety and depressive disorders: a qualitative interview study
Authors: Radez Jerica , Reardon Tessa , Creswell Cathy , Orchard Faith , Waite Polly
Published: January 2021

Anxiety and depressive disorders are the most common mental health disorders in adolescents, yet only a minority of young people with these disorders access professional help. This study aims to address this treatment gap by improving our understanding of barriers and facilitators to seeking/accessing professional help as perceived by adolescents with anxiety/depressive disorders identified in the community. Twenty-two adolescents, aged 11–17 years, who met diagnostic criteria for a current anxiety and/or depressive disorder were identified through school-based screening. In-depth qualitative interviews were conducted one-to-one with each adolescent and adolescents’ parents were interviewed separately for the purpose of data triangulation. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. We identified four themes capturing adolescent perceived barriers and facilitators to seeking/accessing professional help for anxiety and depressive disorders: (1) making sense of difficulties, (2) problem disclosure, (3) ambivalence to seeking help, and (4) the instrumental role of others. Barriers/facilitators identified within each theme reflect important developmental characteristics of adolescence, such as a growing need for autonomy and concerns around negative social evaluation. At the same time, the results highlight adolescents’ dependency on other people, mainly their parents and school staff, when it comes to successfully accessing professional help for their mental health difficulties. This study identifies a number of barriers/facilitators that influence help-seeking behaviour of adolescents with anxiety and/or depressive disorders. These factors need to be addressed when targeting treatment utilisation rates in this particular group of young people.
Effect of MRI acquisition acceleration via compressed sensing and parallel imaging on brain volumetry
Authors: Dieckmeyer Michael , Roy Abhijit Guha , Senapati Jyotirmay , Wachinger Christian , Grundl Lioba , Döpfert Jörg , Bertran Pere Ferrera , Lemke Andreas , Zimmer Claus , Kirschke Jan S. , Hedderich Dennis M.
Published: January 2021

Objectives

To investigate the effect of compressed SENSE (CS), an acceleration technique combining parallel imaging and compressed sensing, on potential bias and precision of brain volumetry and evaluate it in the context of normative brain volumetry.

Materials and methods

In total, 171 scans from scan-rescan experiments on three healthy subjects were analyzed. Each subject received 3D-T1-weighted brain MRI scans at increasing degrees of acceleration (CS-factor = 1/4/8/12/16/20/32). Single-scan acquisition times ranged from 00:41 min (CS-factor = 32) to 21:52 min (CS-factor = 1). Brain segmentation and volumetry was performed using two different software tools: md.brain, a proprietary software based on voxel-based morphometry, and FreeSurfer, an open-source software based on surface-based morphometry. Four sub-volumes were analyzed: brain parenchyma (BP), total gray matter, total white matter, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Coefficient of variation (CoV) of the repeated measurements as a measure of intra-subject reliability was calculated. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) with regard to increasing CS-factor was calculated as another measure of reliability. Noise-to-contrast ratio as a measure of image quality was calculated for each dataset to analyze the association between acceleration factor, noise and volumetric brain measurements.

Results

For all sub-volumes, there is a systematic bias proportional to the CS-factor which is dependent on the utilized software and subvolume. Measured volumes deviated significantly from the reference standard (CS-factor = 1), e.g. ranging from 1 to 13% for BP. The CS-induced systematic bias is driven by increased image noise. Except for CSF, reliability of brain volumetry remains high, demonstrated by low CoV (< 1% for CS-factor up to 20) and good to excellent ICC for CS-factor up to 12.

Conclusion

CS-acceleration has a systematic biasing effect on volumetric brain measurements.
Underfilling decreases left ventricular function in pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Sjögren Hannah , Kjellström Barbro , Bredfelt Anna , Steding-Ehrenborg Katarina , Rådegran Göran , Hesselstrand Roger , Arheden Håkan , Ostenfeld Ellen
Published: January 2021

To evaluate the association between impaired left ventricular (LV) longitudinal function and LV underfilling in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Thirty-nine patients with PAH and 18 age and sex-matched healthy controls were included. LV volume and left atrial volume (LAV) were delineated in short-axis cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) cine images. LV longitudinal function was assessed from atrio-ventricular plane displacement (AVPD) and global longitudinal strain (GLS) was assessed using feature tracking in three long-axis views. LV filling was assessed by LAV and by pulmonary artery wedge pressure (PAWP) using right heart catheterisation. Patients had a smaller LAV, LV volume and stroke volume as well as a lower LV-AVPD and LV-GLS than controls. PAWP was 6 [IQR 5––9] mmHg in patients. LV ejection fraction did not differ between groups. LV stroke volume correlated with LV-AVPD (r = 0.445, p = .001), LV-GLS (r = − 0.549, p < 0.0001) and LAVmax (r = .585, p < 0.0001). Furthermore, LV-AVPD (r = .598) and LV-GLS (r = − 0.675) correlated with LAVmax (p < 0.0001 for both). Neither LV-AVPD, LV-GLS, LAVmax nor stroke volume correlated with PAWP. Impaired LV longitudinal function was associated with low stroke volume, low PAWP and a small LAV in PAH. Small stroke volumes and LAV, together with normal LA pressure, implies that the mechanism causing reduced LV longitudinal function is underfilling rather than an intrinsic LV dysfunction in PAH.
Detecting Instruction Effects—Deciding Between Covariance Analytical and Change-Score Approach
Authors: Köhler Carmen , Hartig Johannes , Naumann Alexander
Published: January 2021

The article focuses on estimating effects in nonrandomized studies with two outcome measurement occasions and one predictor variable. Given such a design, the analysis approach can be to include the measurement at the previous time point as a predictor in the regression model (ANCOVA), or to predict the change-score of the outcome variable (CHANGE). Researchers demonstrated that both approaches can result in different conclusions regarding the reported effect. Current recommendations on when to apply which approach are, in part, contradictory. In addition, they lack direct reference to the educational and instructional research contexts, since they do not consider latent variable models in which variables are measured without measurement error. This contribution assists researchers in making decisions regarding their analysis model. Using an underlying hypothetical data-generating model, we identify for which kind of data-generating scenario (i.e., under which assumptions) the defined true effect equals the estimated regression coefficients of the ANCOVA and the CHANGE approach. We give empirical examples from instructional research and discuss which approach is more appropriate, respectively.
The impact of quality on hospital choice. Which information affects patients’ behavior for colorectal resection or knee replacement?
Authors: Kuklinski David , Vogel Justus , Geissler Alexander
Published: January 2021

Quality competition among hospitals, induced by patients freely choosing their hospital in a price regulated market, can only be realized if quality differences between hospitals are transparent, understandable, and thus influence patients’ hospital choice. We use data from ~145,000 German patients and ~ 900 hospitals for colorectal resections and knee replacements to investigate whether patients value quality and specialization when choosing their hospital. Using a random utility choice model, we estimate patients’ marginal utilities, willingness to travel and change in hospital demand for quality improvements. Patients respond to service quality and specialization and thus, quality competition seems to be present. Colorectal resection patients are willing to travel longer for more specialized hospitals (+9% for procedure volume, +9% for certification). Knee replacement patients travel longer for hospitals with better service quality (+6%) and higher procedure volume (+12%). However, clinical quality indicators, often difficult to access and interpret, barely play a role in patients’ hospital choice. Furthermore, we find that competition on quality for colorectal resection is rather local, whereas for knee replacement we observe regional competition patterns.
Real-World Experiences in Autistic Adult Diagnostic Services and Post-diagnostic Support and Alignment with Services Guidelines: Results from the ASDEU Study
Authors: Scattoni Maria Luisa , Micai Martina , Ciaramella Antonio , Salvitti Tommaso , Fulceri Francesca , Fatta Laura Maria , Poustka Luise , Diehm Robert , Iskrov Georgi , Stefanov Rumen , Guillon Quentin , Rogé Bernadette , Staines Anthony , Sweeney Mary Rose , Boilson Andrew Martin , Leósdóttir Thora , Saemundsen Evald , Moilanen Irma , Ebeling Hanna , Yliherva Anneli , Gissler Mika , Parviainen Tarja , Tani Pekka , Kawa Rafal , Vicente Astrid , Rasga Célia , Budişteanu Magdalena , Dale Ian , Povey Carol , Flores Noelia , Jenaro Cristina , Monroy Maria Luisa , Primo Patricia García , Charman Tony , Cramer Susanne , Warberg Christine Kloster , Canal-Bedia Ricardo , Posada Manuel , Schendel Diana
Published: January 2021

Research providing an evidence-base for autistic adult services is sparse. The Autism Spectrum Disorders in the European Union (ASDEU) network implemented an on-line survey to determine gaps in autistic adult diagnostic evaluation and post-diagnostic support services. More than 55% in all groups experienced most of the recommended features for diagnostic evaluation for autistic adults. In contrast, < 2% of adults or carers, and < 21% of professionals experienced each of the recommended features for post-diagnostic support. In contrast to 61% of professionals, only about 30% of autistic adults and carers had knowledge of good local services models for autism diagnosis in adulthood. There are major differences between good practice guidelines for diagnostic and post-diagnostic care for autistic adults, and what is actually experienced by services users and professionals.
Making sense of teacher agency for change with social and epistemic network analysis
Authors: Pantić Nataša , Galey Sarah , Florian Lani , Joksimović Srećko , Viry Gil , Gašević Dragan , Knutes Nyqvist Helén , Kyritsi Krystallia
Published: January 2021

Reference to teachers as agents of change has become commonplace in the education literature, including change toward more inclusive practice in response to the changing demographic of schooling. Yet, little is known about how teacher agency relates to (1) their understanding of, and commitment to any given change agenda and (2) the institutional and social structures through which they are able to access knowledge and resources within and beyond their schools. This study combined social and epistemic network analysis to examine teachers’ understanding of change and their sense of agency as they use their social networks to mobilise support for furthering change that matters to them. Our study is the first to apply this learning analytic approach in a real setting context. We used theories of teacher agency and inclusive pedagogy to interpret teachers’ social interactions in light of the extent to which they seek to make a difference toward greater inclusion. We collected data with an online log completed by teachers and other staff in two schools in Sweden over 6 months. The findings suggest that teachers understanding of change is embedded in their day-to-day activities such as student support, lesson planning, improvement of programs, and working conditions. Teachers tend to exercise agency toward inclusion when they seek to support student learning and well-being. When teachers act as agents of change, their social networks are bigger, more diverse and more collaborative than in situations in which they act as role implementers. We discuss substantive and methodological implications of these findings.
The Navier–Stokes Equation with Time Quasi-Periodic External Force: Existence and Stability of Quasi-Periodic Solutions
Authors: Montalto Riccardo
Published: January 2021

We prove the existence of small amplitude, time-quasi-periodic solutions (invariant tori) for the incompressible Navier–Stokes equation on thed-dimensional torus$$\mathbb T^d$$Td, with a small, quasi-periodic in time external force. We also show that they are orbitally and asymptotically stable in$$H^s$$Hs(forslarge enough). More precisely, for any initial datum which is close to the invariant torus, there exists a unique global in time solution which stays close to the invariant torus for all times. Moreover, the solution converges asymptotically to the invariant torus for$$t \rightarrow + \infty $$t→+∞, with an exponential rate of convergence$$O( e^{- \alpha t })$$O(e-αt)for any arbitrary$$\alpha \in (0, 1)$$α∈(0,1).
Exploring the Factors that Influence Workforce Participation for People with Multiple Sclerosis: A Discrete Choice Experiment
Authors: Goodwin Elizabeth , Hawton Annie , Whitty Jennifer A. , Green Colin
Published: January 2021

Purpose Research indicates that employment is beneficial for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). However, people with MS typically face reduced workforce participation compared to the general population. Using a discrete choice experiment (DCE) we explored which factors are most important in influencing employment choices of people with MS, and whether the relative importance of factors differs between subgroups. Methods Attributes and levels for the DCE were developed using a systematic literature review and public involvement techniques with people with MS. In an online survey, respondents were asked to choose between two hypothetical job scenarios described using six attributes. We used a large, national register (the UK MS Register), to recruit participants aged 18–64 years with a diagnosis of MS. Choice data were analysed using multinomial logit and latent class models. Results Analyses were based on responses from 2350 people with MS. The preferred model specification was a latent class model, with three classes of respondent. The relative importance of attributes varied between classes, with one giving the greatest weight to the impact of work on other aspects of their lives, the second to having supportive bosses and colleagues, and the third to job flexibility. The classes differed significantly in terms of age and gender, type of MS, and socio-economic status. Conclusions Significant heterogeneity was apparent among people with MS regarding the factors that influence their employment decisions. Attributes concerning the impact of work, attitudes in the workplace and job flexibility appear more influential than those concerning physical workplace adaptations.
Assessing experienced tranquillity through natural language processing and landscape ecology measures
Authors: Wartmann Flurina M. , Koblet Olga , Purves Ross S.
Published: January 2021

Context

Identifying tranquil areas is important for landscape planning and policy-making. Research demonstrated discrepancies between modelled potential tranquil areas and where people experience tranquillity based on field surveys. Because surveys are resource-intensive, user-generated text data offers potential for extracting where people experience tranquillity.

Objectives

We explore and model the relationship between landscape ecological measures and experienced tranquillity extracted from user-generated text descriptions.

Methods

Georeferenced, user-generated landscape descriptions from Geograph.UK were filtered using keywords related to tranquillity. We stratify resulting tranquil locations according to dominant land cover and quantify the influence of landscape characteristics including diversity and naturalness on explaining the presence of tranquillity. Finally, we apply natural language processing to identify terms linked to tranquillity keywords and compare the similarity of these terms across land cover classes.

Results

Evaluation of potential keywords yielded six keywords associated with experienced tranquillity, resulting in 15,350 extracted tranquillity descriptions. The two most common land cover classes associated with tranquillity were arable and horticulture, and improved grassland, followed by urban and suburban. In the logistic regression model across all land cover classes, freshwater, elevation and naturalness were positive predictors of tranquillity. Built-up area was a negative predictor. Descriptions of tranquillity were most similar between improved grassland and arable and horticulture, and most dissimilar between arable and horticulture and urban.

Conclusions

This study highlights the potential of applying natural language processing to extract experienced tranquillity from text, and demonstrates links between landscape ecological measures and tranquillity as a perceived landscape quality.
The knowledge norm of apt practical reasoning
Authors: Mueller Andy
Published: January 2021

I will argue for a novel variant of the knowledge norm for practical reasoning. In Sect. 2, I will look at current variations of a knowledge norm for practical reasoning and I will provide reasons to doubt these proposals. In Sects. 3 and 4, I develop my own proposal according to which knowledge is the norm of apt practical reasoning. Section 5 considers objections. Finally, Sect. 6 concerns the normativity of my proposed knowledge norm and its significance.