bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The AMPA receptor antagonist perampanel suppresses epileptic activity in human focal cortical dysplasia
Authors: Brito da Silva Anderson , Pennifold Jane , Henley Ben , Chatterjee Koustav , Bateman David , Whittaker Roger W. , Joshi Abhijit , Kumar Hrishikesh , Nicholson Claire , Baker Mark R. , Greenhill Stuart D. , Walsh Richard , Seri Stefano , Jones Roland S. G. , Woodhall Gavin L. , Cunningham Mark O.
Published: October 2021

Focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) is one of the most common malformations causing refractory epilepsy. Dysregulation of glutamatergic systems plays a critical role in the hyperexcitability of dysplastic neurons in FCD lesions. The pharmacoresistant nature of epilepsy associated with FCD may be due to a lack of well‐tolerated and precise antiepileptic drugs that can target glutamate receptors. Here, for the first time in human FCD brain slices, we show that the established, noncompetitive α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptor antagonist, perampanel has potent antiepileptic action. Moreover, we demonstrate that this effect is due to a reduction in burst firing behavior in human FCD microcircuits. These data support a potential role for the treatment of refractory epilepsy associated with FCD in human patients.
The fronto‐parietal network is not a flexible hub during naturalistic cognition
Authors: Caldinelli Chiara , Cusack Rhodri
Published: October 2021

The fronto‐parietal network (FPN) is crucial for cognitively demanding tasks as it selectively represents task‐relevant information and controls other brain regions. To implement these functions, it has been argued that it is a flexible hub that reconfigures its functional connectivity with other networks. This was supported by a study in which a set of demanding tasks were presented, that varied in their sensory features, comparison rules, and response mappings, and the FPN showed greater reconfiguration of functional connectivity between tasks than any other network. However, this task set was designed to engage the FPN, and therefore it remains an open question whether the FPN is in a flexible hub in general or only for such task sets. Using two freely available datasets (Experiment 1, N = 15, Experiment 2, N = 644), we examined dynamic functional connectivity during naturalistic cognition, while participants watched a movie. Many differences in the flexibility were found across networks but the FPN was not the most flexible hub in the brain, during either movie for any of two measures, using a regression model or a correlation model and across five timescales. We, therefore, conclude that the FPN does not have the trait of being a flexible hub, although it may adopt this state for particular task sets.
The infection characteristics and autophagy defect of dermal macrophages in STZ‐induced diabetic rats skin wound Staphylococcus aureus infection model
Authors: Xie Xiaoying , Zhong Rihui , Luo Ling , Lin Xianghua , Huang Lisi , Huang Songyin , Ni Lijia , Chen Baiji , Shen Rui , Yan Li , Duan Chaohui
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Diabetic foot ulcer infection (DFI) is an infectious disease of the skin and soft tissue in diabetics notorious for making rapid progress and being hard to cure. Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), most frequently detected in DFI, recently was suggested as an intracellular pathogen that can invade and survive within mammalian host cells. Autophagy in macrophages plays a vital immune role in combating intracellular pathogens through bacterial destruction, but there is a lack of empirical research about the infection characteristics and autophagy in diabetic skin infection.

Methods

Here, we used streptozotocin‐induced Sprague Dawley rats as a diabetic skin wound model to examine the S. aureus clearance ability and wound healing in vitro. Western blot and immunofluorescence staining were used to evaluate the autophagic flux of the macrophages in diabetic rats dermis, even with S. aureus infection.

Results

We demonstrated that infections in diabetic rats appeared more severe and more invasive with weakened pathogen clearance ability of the host immune system, which coincided with the suppressed autophagic flux in dermal macrophages, featured by a significant increase in endogenous LC3II/I and in p62.

Conclusions

Our results first provided convincing evidence that autophagy of macrophages was dysfunctional in diabetes, especially after being infected by S. aureus, which weakens the intracellular killing of S. aureus, potentially worsens the infections, and accelerates the infection spread in the diabetic rat model. Further understanding of the special immune crosstalk between diabetes host and S. aureus infection through autophagic factors will help to explain the complex clinical phenomenon and guarantee the development of effective therapies for diabetic foot infections.
Water shortages, irrigation frequency, and preference for technologies and agricultural services: The case of Jordan*
Authors: Balasubramanya Soumya , Stifel David , McDonnell Rachael
Published: October 2021

The use of improved technologies has been encouraged to improve irrigation on farms, especially in drought‐prone areas. However, farmers' irrigation decisions may be rather motivated by a desire to reduce risk of crop loss than to reduce water use. Using the case of Jordan, we contribute to the water‐saving debate by examining whether current irrigation frequency is influenced by past experiences of losses due to water shortage and whether preferences for technologies and irrigation advisory services are mediated by water shortage experiences. Our data are based on a survey of 304 fruit farms in the highlands that were all using drip irrigation, a popular way to “save” water globally. We find that farms that faced losses due to water shortages in the past are more likely to irrigate more frequently. More frequent irrigators who have such shortages are more likely to prefer receiving irrigation advisory information rather than upgrading technologies, while more frequent irrigators who have not faced such shortages are more likely to prefer upgrading irrigation technologies. Results suggest that irrigation management is motivated by risk reduction, not just by water conservation. Irrigation advisory services, hitherto neglected, may be an important component of agricultural water management in Jordan.
Advances in vibrational configuration interaction theory ‐ part 1: Efficient calculation of vibrational angular momentum terms
Authors: Mathea Tina , Rauhut Guntram
Published: October 2021

Finite basis vibrational configuration interaction theory (VCI) is a highly accurate method for the variational calculation of state energies and related properties, but suffers from fast growing computational costs in dependence of the size of the correlation space. In this series of papers, concepts and techniques will be presented, which diminish the computational demands and thus broaden the applicability of this method to larger molecules or more complex situations. This first part focuses on a highly efficient implementation of the vibrational angular momentum (VAM) terms as occurring in the Watson Hamiltonian and the prediagonalization of initial subspaces within an iterative configuration selective VCI implementation. Working equations and benchmark calculations are provided, the latter demonstrating the increased performance of the new algorithm.
Advances in vibrational configuration interaction theory ‐ part 2: Fast screening of the correlation space
Authors: Mathea Tina , Petrenko Taras , Rauhut Guntram
Published: October 2021

For larger molecules, the computational demands of configuration selective vibrational configuration interaction theory (cs‐VCI) are usually dominated by the configuration selection process, which commonly is based on second order vibrational Møller‐Plesset perturbation (VMP2) theory. Here we present two techniques, which lead to substantial accelerations of such calculations while retaining the desired high accuracy of the final results. The first one introduces the concept of configuration classes, which allows for a highly efficient exploitation of the analogs of the Slater‐Condon rules in vibrational structure calculations with large correlation spaces. The second approach uses a VMP2 like vector for augmenting the targeted vibrational wavefunction within the selection of configurations and thus avoids any intermediate diagonalization steps. The underlying theory is outlined and benchmark calculations are provided for highly correlated vibrational states of several molecules.
Muscle ultrasonography in detecting fasciculations: A noninvasive diagnostic tool for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Rajula Rahul Reddy , Saini Jitender , Unnikrishnan Gopikrishnan , Vengalil Seena , Nashi Saraswati , Bardhan Mainak , Huddar Akshata , Chawla Tanushree , Sindhu Dodmalur Malikarjuna , Ganaraja Valakunja Harikrishna , Polavarapu Kiran , Preethish‐Kumar Veeramani , Kandavel Thennarasu , Nalini Atchayaram
Published: October 2021

Background and objectives

Muscle ultrasound (MUS) is an emerging noninvasive tool to identify fasciculations in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). We assessed the utility of MUS in detecting fasciculations in suspected ALS patients.

Methods

Thirty‐three patients (25 men) with possible (n = 7), probable (n = 12), or definite ALS according to Awaji criteria were studied. Electromyography was done in biceps brachii, quadriceps, and thoracic paraspinal muscles and MUS in biceps, triceps, deltoid, abductor‐digiti‐minimi, quadriceps, hamstrings, tibialis anterior, thoracic paraspinal, and tongue muscles.

Results

The age at onset and illness duration was 49.73 ± 12.7 years and 13.57 ± 9.7 months, respectively. Limb‐onset = 24 patients (72.7%) and bulbar‐onset = 9 (27.3%). Totally 561 muscles were examined by MUS. Fasciculations were detected in 84.3% of muscles, 98.4% with and 73% without clinical fasciculations (p < 0.001). Fasciculation detection rate (FDR) by MUS was significantly higher in muscles with wasting (95.6%) than without wasting (77.6%, p < 0.001). Compared with EMG, FDR was significantly higher with MUS in quadriceps (81.8% vs. 51.5%, p = 0.002) and thoracic paraspinal muscles (75.8% vs. 42.4%, p = 0.013). The proportion of patients with definite ALS increased from 42% by clinical examination to 70% after combining EMG and MUS findings.

Conclusions

MUS is more sensitive in detecting fasciculations than electromyography (EMG) and provides a safer, faster, painless, and noninvasive alternative to EMG in detecting fasciculations in ALS.
P2X4 purinergic receptors offer a therapeutic target for aggressive prostate cancer
Authors: Maynard Janielle P , Lu Jiayun , Vidal Igor , Hicks Jessica , Mummert Luke , Ali Tamirat , Kempski Ryan , Carter Ayanna M. , Sosa Rebecca Y , Peiffer Lauren B , Joshu Corinne E , Lotan Tamara L , De Marzo Angelo M. , Sfanos Karen S
Published: October 2021

Prostate cancer (PCa) remains a leading cause of cancer‐related deaths in American men and treatment options for metastatic PCa are limited. There is a critical need to identify new mechanisms that contribute to PCa progression, that distinguish benign from lethal disease, and that have potential for therapeutic targeting. P2X4 belongs to the P2 purinergic receptor family that is commonly upregulated in cancer and is associated with poorer outcomes. We observed P2X4 protein expression primarily in epithelial cells of the prostate, a subset of CD66+ neutrophils, and most CD68+ macrophages. Our analysis of tissue microarrays representing 491 PCa cases demonstrated significantly elevated P2X4 expression in cancer‐ compared with benign‐tissue spots, in prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia, and in PCa with ERG positivity or with PTEN loss. High‐level P2X4 expression in benign tissues was likewise associated with the development of metastasis after radical prostatectomy. Treatment with the P2X4‐specific agonist cytidine 5′‐triphosphate (CTP) increased Transwell migration and invasion of PC3, DU145, and CWR22Rv1 PCa cells. The P2X4 antagonist 5‐(3‐bromophenyl)‐1,3‐dihydro‐2H‐benzofuro[3,2‐e]‐1,4‐diazepin‐2‐one (5‐BDBD) resulted in a dose‐dependent decrease in viability of PC3, DU145, LNCaP, CWR22Rv1, TRAMP‐C2, Myc‐CaP, BMPC1, and BMPC2 cells and decreased DU145 cell migration and invasion. Knockdown of P2X4 attenuated growth, migration, and invasion of PCa cells. Finally, knockdown of P2X4 in Myc‐CaP cells resulted in significantly attenuated subcutaneous allograft growth in FVB/NJ mice. Collectively, these data strongly support a role for the P2X4 purinergic receptor in PCa aggressiveness and identify P2X4 as a candidate for therapeutic targeting. © 2021 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Theoretical and experimental study of the flow of a molten polymer in a micro‐compounder
Authors: Berton Irène , Castellani Romain , Sardo Lucas , Valette Rudy , Vergnes Bruno
Published: October 2021

Micro‐compounders are more and more used to characterize and optimize the formulations and the flow conditions of complex materials, with very low quantities, around a few grams. These machines are composed of a small‐size conical twin‐screw extruder, coupled with a recirculating channel, in which the material can be processed during a fixed time and a certain number of cycles, before being purged. However, the precise flow conditions inside these machines are not well known, what makes an optimal interpretation of the results difficult. Therefore, in this paper, a theoretical model based on continuum mechanics is proposed to calculate the flow in the recirculating mode. An experimental study on a well‐chosen polymer is carried out to define the influences of the main processing parameters (screw speed, mass of material, barrel temperature) and to validate the model. Despite the simplicity of the theoretical approach, the calculated results are in satisfactory agreement with the experiments.
Validierung der Windersatzlasten auf Wandkonstruktionen mit Sandwichelementen
Authors: Funke Alexander , Janczyk Kevin , Kemper Frank , Kuhnhenne Markus , Feldmann Markus
Published: October 2021

Im Jahr 2009 wurde die harmonisierte Norm DIN EN 14509 mit dem Titel „Selbsttragende Sandwichelemente mit beidseitigen Metalldeckschichten“ eingeführt. Diese ist in der aktualisierten Form von 2013 bis heute gültig und regelt u. a. die Bemessungsverfahren für Sandwichelemente. Seit Einführung wurde die Windlastmodellierung für die großflächigen Fassadenelemente diskutiert, da die Neuregelung im Zusammenhang mit der Windlastnorm DIN EN 1991‐1‐4:2012 zu höheren Windlasten, insbesondere im Eckbereich führte. In dieser Studie wurden deswegen die Auswirkungseffekte auf der Strukturebene bestimmt und statistisch bewertet, um ein realistisches Windlastmodell für die betrachtete Bauweise zu erhalten. Es wurden sowohl hochauflösende Windkanalmessungen als auch Bauteilversuche durchgeführt, um reale Lastweiterleitungseffekte an Sandwichsystemen im Originalmaßstab zu identifizieren. Die Überlagerung beider und die statistische Absicherung führten zu dem Ergebnis, dass die bestehenden Modelle keine generelle Lastminderung erkennen lassen und der Nachweis der Elemente auch bez. des Lastwerts in der Gebäudeecke im Wesentlichen zutreffend ist. Es konnte jedoch gezeigt werden, dass der für die großflächigen Elemente maßgebende Korrelationseffekt, entgegen der derzeitigen Bemessungspraxis, auch für die Verbindungsmittel ansetzbar ist, sodass die Modellierung lokaler Sogspitzen nicht nötig ist und auch hier die cpe,10‐Beiwerte aus DIN EN 1991‐1‐4:2012 genutzt werden können.
A unified approach for determining the strength of Frc members subjected to torsion—Part I: Experimental investigation
Authors: Facconi Luca , Amin Ali , Minelli Fausto , Plizzari Giovanni
Published: October 2021

The strength and behavior of fiber reinforced concrete (FRC) members subjected to torsion has received little attention in the literature. The primary objective of including fibers in concrete is to bridge cracks once they form, and in doing so, provide some post‐cracking resistance to the otherwise brittle concrete. This and the accompanying paper that follows present the results of a comprehensive experimental and analytical study aimed at describing the behavior and strength of FRC members subjected to torsion. In this paper, results are presented on large scale pure torsion tests which have been conducted on eighteen 2.7 m long by 0.3 m wide by 0.3 m high beams with varying transverse and longitudinal reinforcement ratios along with varying steel fiber types and dosages. The results of this study demonstrates that the addition of steel fibers significantly increases the stiffness, rigidity and the maximum resisting torque and maximum twist when compared to the same specimen without fibers. The addition of fibers substantially reduced crack widths and crack spacings induced by torsion. The complementary behavior of specimens containing fibers and stirrups is explored along with a critical discussion on members containing low amounts of conventional longitudinal and/or transverse reinforcement.
Trade openness and financial development in sub‐Saharan Africa: The role of institutional structures
Authors: Abeka Mac Junior , Gatsi John Gartchie , Appiah Michael Owusu , Agyemang Otuo Serebour
Published: October 2021

This article examines the role of institutional structures in the relationship between trade openness and financial development in sub‐Saharan economies. The study is based on empirical data from sampled sub‐Saharan African countries for a period of 1996–2017. The system generalized method of moment was employed to estimate the models. The findings suggest that, even though trade openness has a positive significant influence on the level of financial development in sub‐Saharan African economies, this relationship is enhanced through the presence of good institutions in these economies. Thus, for these economies to realize the full benefit of the effect of trade openness on financial development, they need to strengthen their institutions.
Classical gravitational scattering from a gauge-invariant double copy
Authors: Brandhuber Andreas , Chen Gang , Travaglini Gabriele , Wen Congkao
Published: October 2021

Abstract

We propose a method to compute the scattering angle for classical black hole scattering directly from two massive particle irreducible diagrams in a heavy-mass effective field theory approach to general relativity, without the need of subtracting iteration terms. The amplitudes in this effective theory are constructed using a recently proposed novel colour-kinematic/double copy for tree-level two-scalar, multi-graviton amplitudes, where the BCJ numerators are gauge invariant and local with respect to the massless gravitons. These tree amplitudes, together with graviton tree amplitudes, enter the construction of the requiredD-dimensional loop integrands and allow for a direct extraction of contributions relevant for classical physics. In particular the soft/heavy-mass expansions of full integrands is circumvented, and all iterating contributions can be dropped from the get go. We use this method to compute the scattering angle up to third post-Minkowskian order in four dimensions, including radiation reaction contributions, also providing the expression of the corresponding integrand inDdimensions.
The role of right-handed neutrinos in b → cτ (πντ, ρντ, μ$$ \overline{\nu} $$μντ)$$ \overline{\nu} $$τ from visible final-state kinematics
Authors: Penalva Neus , Hernández Eliecer , Nieves Juan
Published: October 2021

Abstract

In the context of lepton flavor universality violation (LFUV) studies, we fully derive a general tensor formalism to investigate the role that left- and right-handed neutrino new-physics (NP) terms may have in b → cτ$$ \overline{\nu} $$

ν
¯

τ transitions. We present, for several extensions of the Standard Model (SM), numerical results for the Λb → Λcτ$$ \overline{\nu} $$

ν
¯

τ semileptonic decay, which is expected to be measured with precision at the LHCb. This reaction can be a new source of experimental information that can help to confirm, or maybe rule out, LFUV presently seen in $$ \overline{B} $$

B
¯

meson decays. The present study analyzes observables that can help in distinguishing between different NP scenarios that otherwise provide very similar results for the branching ratios, which are our currently best hints for LFUV. Since the τ lepton is very short-lived, we consider three subsequent τ-decay modes, two hadronic πντ and ρντ and one leptonic μ$$ \overline{\nu} $$

ν
¯

μντ, which have been previously studied for $$ \overline{B} $$

B
¯

→ D(*) decays. Within the tensor formalism that we have developed in previous works, we re-obtain the expressions for the differential decay width written in terms of visible (experimentally accessible) variables of the massive particle created in the τ decay. There are seven different τ angular and spin asymmetries that are defined in this way and that can be extracted from experiment. Those asymmetries provide observables that can help in constraining possible SM extensions.
Zur nichtkonsensuellen Weiterleitung persönlicher erotischer Fotos an Schulen
Authors: Dekker Arne , Behrendt Pia , Pregartbauer Lea
Published: October 2021

Hintergrund

Neben Chancen bringen Internet und digitale Medien für Kinder und Jugendliche auch Risiken mit sich. Ein solches stellen Fälle dar, bei denen persönliche erotische Fotos von Schüler:innen gegen deren Willen weiterverbreitet werden. Für Betroffene können die psychosozialen Konsequenzen gravierend sein.

Ziel der Arbeit

Mit der vorliegenden Arbeit sollen Prävalenz von und Umgang mit der nichteinvernehmlichen Weiterleitung persönlicher erotischer Fotos unter Schüler:innen an Schulen in Schleswig-Holstein erhoben werden.

Methode

Vom 25.04. bis zum 07.06.2019 wurden die Schulleitungen von weiterführenden Schulen mittels eines Onlinekurzfragebogens sowohl zum Vorkommen nichtkonsensueller Fotoweiterleitung an den jeweiligen Schulen befragt als auch zu ergriffenen Maßnahmen, Folgen für die betroffenen Schüler:innen und Konsequenzen für diejenigen, die die Fotos versendet haben. Die Angaben von 74 Schulleitungen konnten in die Datenanalyse aufgenommen werden.

Ergebnisse

An mehr als zwei Dritteln der Schulen wurde den Schulleitungen mindestens ein Fall von nichtkonsensueller Fotoweiterleitung bekannt. Ergriffene Maßnahmen waren zumeist die Information der Eltern aller Beteiligten und ein „angeleiteter Austausch“ zwischen den beteiligten Schüler:innen. Als Folgen für die betroffenen Schüler:innen wurden v. a. sozialer Rückzug, psychisches Leiden, schulische Leistungsprobleme und Erfahrungen mit Cybermobbing/-bullying berichtet. In acht Fällen verließen betroffene Schüler:innen die Schule.

Diskussion

Nichtkonsensuelle Fotoweiterleitung an Schulen ist ein Problem erheblichen Ausmaßes. Zeitgemäße spezifische Präventionsmaßnahmen sind dringend erforderlich.
COVID-19 in multiple-myeloma patients: cellular and humoral immunity against SARS-CoV-2 in a short- and long-term view
Authors: von Metzler Ivana , Campe Julia , Huenecke Sabine , Raab Marc S. , Goldschmidt Hartmut , Schubert Ralf , Rabenau Holger F. , Ciesek Sandra , Serve Hubert , Ullrich Evelyn
Published: October 2021

Multiple myeloma patients are often treated with immunomodulatory drugs, proteasome inhibitors, or monoclonal antibodies until disease progression. Continuous therapy in combination with the underlying disease frequently results in severe humoral and cellular immunodeficiency, which often manifests in recurrent infections. Here, we report on the clinical management and immunological data of three multiple-myeloma patients diagnosed with COVID-19. Despite severe hypogammaglobulinemia, deteriorated T cell counts, and neutropenia, the patients were able to combat COVID-19 by balanced response of innate immunity, strong CD8+ and CD4+ T cell activation and differentiation, development of specific T-cell memory subsets, and development of anti-SARS-CoV-2 type IgM and IgG antibodies with virus-neutralizing capacities. Even 12 months after re-introduction of lenalidomide maintenance therapy, antibody levels and virus-neutralizing antibody titers remained detectable, indicating persisting immunity against SARS-CoV-2. We conclude that in MM patients who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 and were receiving active MM treatment, immune response assessment could be a useful tool to help guide decision-making regarding the continuation of anti-tumor therapy and supportive therapy.

Key messages

Immunosuppression due to multiple myeloma might not be the crucial factor that is affecting the course of COVID-19.

In this case, despite pre-existing severe deficits in CD4+ T-cell counts and IgA und IgM deficiency, we noticed a robust humoral and cellular immune response against SARS-CoV-2.

Evaluation of immune response and antibody titers in MM patients that were tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 and are on active MM treatment should be performed on a larger scale; the findings might affect further treatment recommendations for COVID-19, MM treatment re-introduction, and isolation measures.
Continua with partially constrained microstructure
Authors: Giovine Pasquale
Published: October 2021

The mechanical balance equations for a body with microstructure are derived from an expansion of the general Noll’s axiom of frame-indifference that takes into account the behavior of measures of microstructural interactions. Next, we introduce perfect internal constraints and adopt an extended determinism principle to analyze the consequences of their presence. Finally, we define the class of continua with partially constrained microstructure to give a complete dynamical description for a broad family of peculiar materials such as suspensions of rigid rotating granules, pseudo-Cosserat continua and partially constrained micro-spins.
Design and validation of integrated clamping interfaces for post-processing and robotic handling in additive manufacturing
Authors: Ferchow Julian , Kälin Dominik , Englberger Gokula , Schlüssel Marcel , Klahn Christoph , Meboldt Mirko
Published: October 2021

Additive manufacturing (AM), particularly laser-based powder bed fusion of metals (LPBF), enables the fabrication of complex and customized metallic parts. However, 20–40% of the total manufacturing costs are usually attributed to post-processing steps. To reduce the costs of extensive post-processing, the process chain for AM parts has to be automated. Accordingly, robotic gripping and handling processes, as well as an efficient clamping for subtractive machining of AM parts, are key challenges. This study introduces and validates integrated bolts acting as a handling and clamping interface of AM parts. The bolts are integrated into the part design and manufactured in the same LPBF process. The bolts can be easily removed after the machining process using a wrench. This feasibility study investigates different bolt elements. The experiments and simulations conducted in the study show that a force of 250 N resulted in a maximum displacement of 12.5 µm. The milling results of the LPBF parts reveal a maximum roughness value, Ra, of 1.42 µm, which is comparable to that of a standard clamping system. After the bolt removal, a maximum residual height of 0.067 mm remains. Two case studies are conducted to analyze the form deviation, the effect of bolts on build time, and material volume and to demonstrate the application of the bolts. Thus, the major contribution of this study is the design and the validation of standardized interfaces for robotic handling and clamping of complex AM parts. The novelties are a simple and clean interface removal, less material consumption, less support structure required, and finally an achievement of a five-side tool accessibility by combining the interfaces with a three-jaw chuck.
An adaptive time-stepping method based on a posteriori weak error analysis for large SDE systems
Authors: Merle Fabian , Prohl Andreas
Published: October 2021

We develop an adaptive algorithm for large SDE systems, which automatically selects (quasi-)deterministic time steps for the semi-implicit Euler method, based on an a posteriori weak error estimate. Main tools to construct the a posteriori estimator are the representation of the weak approximation error via Kolmogorov’s backward equation, a priori bounds for its solution and the Clark–Ocone formula. For a certain class of SDE systems, we validate optimal weak convergence order 1 of the a posteriori estimator, and termination of the adaptive method based on it within $${{\mathcal {O}}}(\mathtt{Tol}^{-1})$$

O
(

Tol

-
1

)

steps.
Root-Associated Bacteria Community Characteristics of Antarctic Plants: Deschampsia antarctica and Colobanthus quitensis—a Comparison
Authors: Znój Anna , Gawor Jan , Gromadka Robert , Chwedorzewska Katarzyna J. , Grzesiak Jakub
Published: October 2021

Colobanthus quitensis (Kunth) Bartl. and Deschampsia antarctica Desv. are the only Magnoliophyta to naturally colonize the Antarctic region. The reason for their sole presence in Antarctica is still debated as there is no definitive consensus on how only two unrelated flowering plants managed to establish breeding populations in this part of the world. In this study, we have explored and compared the rhizosphere and root-endosphere dwelling microbial community of C. quitensis and D. antarctica specimens sampled in maritime Antarctica from sites displaying contrasting edaphic characteristics. Bacterial phylogenetic diversity (high-throughput 16S rRNA gene fragment targeted sequencing) and microbial metabolic activity (Biolog EcoPlates) with a geochemical soil background were assessed. Gathered data showed that the microbiome of C. quitensis root system was mostly site-dependent, displaying different characteristics in each of the examined locations. This plant tolerated an active bacterial community only in severe conditions (salt stress and nutrient deprivation), while in other more favorable circumstances, it restricted microbial activity, with a possibility of microbivory-based nutrient acquisition. The microbial communities of D. antarctica showed a high degree of similarity between samples within a particular rhizocompartment. The grass’ endosphere was significantly enriched in plant beneficial taxa of the family Rhizobiaceae, which displayed obligatory endophyte characteristics, suggesting that at least part of this community is transmitted vertically. Ultimately, the ecological success of C. quitensis and D. antarctica in Antarctica might be largely attributed to their associations and management of root-associated microbiota.
The duration of artificial light defines sexual signalling in the common glow-worm
Authors: Elgert Christina , Lehtonen Topi K. , Kaitala Arja , Candolin Ulrika
Published: October 2021

Artificial light at night is increasing globally, interfering with both sensory ecology and temporal rhythms of organisms, from zooplankton to mammals. This interference can change the behaviour of the affected organisms, and hence compromise the viability of their populations. Limiting the use of artificial light may mitigate these negative effects. Accordingly, we investigated whether the duration of artificial light affects sexual signalling in female glow-worms, Lampyris noctiluca, which are flightless and attract flying males to mate by emitting glow that is interfered by light pollution. The study included three treatments: no artificial light (control), 15 min of artificial light, and 45 min of artificial light. The results show that females were more likely to cease glowing when the exposure to light was longer. Furthermore, small females were more likely to cease their glow, and responded faster to the light, than larger females. These findings suggest that glow-worms can react rapidly to anthropogenic changes in nocturnal light levels, and that prolonged periods of artificial light trigger females to stop sexual signalling. Thus, limiting the duration of artificial light can mitigate the adverse effects of light pollution on sexual signalling, highlighting the importance of such mitigation measures.

Significance statement

Interest in the effects of artificial light at night on animal behaviour has increased in recent years. With evidence for its negative impact accumulating, potential remedies, such as limiting the duration of light exposure, have emerged. To date, however, knowledge on the effectiveness of these methods has remained very limited. We show that female European common glow-worms, which are wingless beetles that glow to attract flying males to mate, responded to prolonged artificial light exposure by discontinuing their glow. Such non-glowing females are not expected to find a mate, making it difficult for them to reproduce. Hence, our study indicates that the duration of artificial light should be limited to protect this night-active beetle and its opportunities for effective sexual signalling. Because many other nocturnal species also need darkness, this study provides valuable information for the development and use of less disruptive night-time lights.
Organic crystal-based THz source for complex refractive index measurements of window materials using single-shot THz spectroscopy
Authors: Du Lufan , Roeder Franz , Li Yun , Shalaby Mostafa , Beleites Burgard , Ronneberger Falk , Gopal Amrutha
Published: October 2021

We employed N-benzyl-2-methyl-4-nitroaniline (BNA) crystals bonded on substrates of different thermal conductivity to generate THz radiation by pumping with 800 nm laser pulses. Crystals bonded on sapphire substrate provided four times more THz yield than glass substrate. A pyrodetector and a single-shot electro-optic (EO) diagnostic were employed for measuring the energy and temporal characterisation of the THz pulse. Systematic studies were carried out for the selection of a suitable EO crystal, which allowed accurate determination of the emitted THz spectrum from both substrates. Subsequently, the THz source and single-shot electro-optic detection scheme were employed to measure the complex refractive index of window materials in the THz range.
Cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) for colorectal peritoneal metastases: analysis of short- and long-term outcomes
Authors: Rosa Fausto , Galiandro Federica , Ricci Riccardo , Di Miceli Dario , Quero Giuseppe , Fiorillo Claudio , Cina Caterina , Alfieri Sergio
Published: October 2021

Background

Peritoneal metastases carry the worst prognosis among all sites of colorectal cancer (CRC) metastases. In recent years, the advent of cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has improved survival for selected patients with limited peritoneal involvement. We report the evolution of CRS and HIPEC for colorectal peritoneal metastases at a tertiary referral center over a 10-year period.

Methods

Patients with colorectal peritoneal metastases undergoing CRS and HIPEC were included and retrospectively analyzed at a tertiary referral center from January 2006 to December 2015. Main outcomes included evaluation of grade III/IV complications, mortality rate, overall and disease-free survival, and prognostic factors influencing survival on a Cox multivariate analysis.

Results

Sixty-seven CRSs were performed on 67 patients during this time for colorectal peritoneal metastases. The median patient age was 57 years with 55.2% being female. The median peritoneal carcinomatosis index (PCI) was 7, with complete cytoreduction achieved in 65 (97%) cases. Grade > 2 complications occurred in 6 cases (8.9%) with no mortality. The median overall survival for the entire cohort was 41 months, with a 3-year overall survival of 43%. In case of complete cytoreduction, median overall and disease-free survival were 57 months and 36 months respectively, with a 3-year disease-free survival of 62%. Complete cytoreduction and nonmucinous histology were key factors independently associated with improved overall survival.

Conclusions

CRS and HIPEC for limited peritoneal metastases from CRC are safe and effective, with acceptable morbidity. In selected patients, it offers a highly favorable long-term outcomes.
Changes in characteristics and outcomes of critically ill COVID-19 patients in Tyrol (Austria) over 1 year
Authors: Mayerhöfer Timo , Klein Sebastian J. , Peer Andreas , Perschinka Fabian , Lehner Georg F. , Hasslacher Julia , Bellmann Romuald , Gasteiger Lukas , Mittermayr Markus , Eschertzhuber Stephan , Mathis Simon , Fiala Anna , Fries Dietmar , Kalenka Armin , Foidl Eva , Hasibeder Walter , Helbok Raimund , Kirchmair Lukas , Stögermüller Birgit , Krismer Christoph , Heiner Tatjana , Ladner Eugen , Thomé Claudius , Preuß-Hernandez Christian , Mayr Andreas , Pechlaner Agnes , Potocnik Miriam , Reitter Bruno , Brunner Jürgen , Zagitzer-Hofer Stefanie , Ribitsch Alexandra , Joannidis Michael
Published: October 2021

Background

Widely varying mortality rates of critically ill Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) patients in the world highlighted the need for local surveillance of baseline characteristics, treatment strategies and outcome. We compared two periods of the COVID-19 pandemic to identify important differences in characteristics and therapeutic measures and their influence on the outcome of critically ill COVID-19 patients.

Methods

This multicenter prospective register study included all patients with a SARS-CoV‑2 infection confirmed by polymerase chain reaction, who were treated in 1 of the 12 intensive care units (ICU) from 8 hospitals in Tyrol, Austria during 2 defined periods (1 February 2020 until 17 July: first wave and 18 July 2020 until 22 February 2021: second wave) of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results

Overall, 508 patients were analyzed. The majority (n = 401) presented during the second wave, where the median age was significantly higher (64 years, IQR 54–74 years vs. 72 years, IQR 62–78 years,p < 0.001). Invasive mechanical ventilation was less frequent during the second period (50.5% vs 67.3%,p = 0.003), as was the use of vasopressors (50.3% vs. 69.2%,p = 0.001) and renal replacement therapy (12.0% vs. 19.6%,p = 0.061), which resulted in shorter ICU length of stay (10 days, IQR 5–18 days vs. 18 days, IQR 5–31 days,p < 0.001). Nonetheless, ICU mortality did not change (28.9% vs. 21.5%,p = 0.159) and hospital mortality even increased (22.4% vs. 33.4%,p = 0.039) in the second period. Age, frailty and the number of comorbidities were significant predictors of hospital mortality in a multivariate logistic regression analysis of the overall cohort.

Conclusion

Advanced treatment strategies and learning effects over time resulted in reduced rates of mechanical ventilation and vasopressor use in the second wave associated with shorter ICU length of stay. Despite these improvements, age appears to be a dominant factor for hospital mortality in critically ill COVID-19 patients.
European clinical guidelines for Tourette syndrome and other tic disorders—version 2.0. Part I: assessment
Authors: Szejko Natalia , Robinson Sally , Hartmann Andreas , Ganos Christos , Debes Nanette M. , Skov Liselotte , Haas Martina , Rizzo Renata , Stern Jeremy , Münchau Alexander , Czernecki Virginie , Dietrich Andrea , Murphy Tara L. , Martino Davide , Tarnok Zsanett , Hedderly Tammy , Müller-Vahl Kirsten R. , Cath Danielle C.
Published: October 2021

In 2011 a working group of the European Society for the Study of Tourette Syndrome (ESSTS) has developed the first European assessment guidelines for Tourette syndrome (TS). Now, we present an updated version 2.0 of these European clinical guidelines for Tourette syndrome and other tic disorders, part I: assessment. Therefore, the available literature has been thoroughly screened, supplemented with national guidelines across countries and discussions among ESSTS experts. Diagnostic changes between DSM-IV and DSM-5 classifications were taken into account and new information has been added regarding differential diagnoses, with an emphasis on functional movement disorders in both children and adults. Further, recommendations regarding rating scales to evaluate tics, comorbidities, and neuropsychological status are provided. Finally, results from a recently performed survey among ESSTS members on assessment in TS are described. We acknowledge that the Yale Global Tic Severity Scale (YGTSS) is still the gold standard for assessing tics. Recommendations are provided for scales for the assessment of tics and psychiatric comorbidities in patients with TS not only in routine clinical practice, but also in the context of clinical research. Furthermore, assessments supporting the differential diagnosis process are given as well as tests to analyse cognitive abilities, emotional functions and motor skills.
Prenatal maternal and cord blood vitamin D concentrations and negative affectivity in infancy
Authors: Sammallahti Sara , Holmlund-Suila Elisa , Zou Runyu , Valkama Saara , Rosendahl Jenni , Enlund-Cerullo Maria , Hauta-alus Helena , Lahti-Pulkkinen Marius , El Marroun Hanan , Tiemeier Henning , Mäkitie Outi , Andersson Sture , Räikkönen Katri , Heinonen Kati
Published: October 2021

Higher maternal vitamin D concentration during pregnancy is associated with better child mental health. Negative affectivity, an early-emerging temperamental trait, indicates an increased risk of psychopathology. We investigated if maternal early/mid-pregnancy 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) and neonatal cord blood 25(OH)D concentrations are associated with Negative affectivity in infancy. We studied term-born infants from the vitamin D Intervention in Infants study (VIDI, n = 777, follow-up rate 80%, Finland), and the Generation R Study (n = 1505, follow-up rate 40%, Netherlands). We measured maternal serum 25(OH)D at 6–27 weeks (VIDI) or 18–25 weeks (Generation R) of pregnancy, and cord blood 25(OH)D at birth (both cohorts). Caregivers rated infant Negative affectivity at 11.7 months (VIDI) or 6.5 months (Generation R) using the Revised Infant Behavior Questionnaire. Using linear regression, we tested associations between 25(OH)D and Negative affectivity adjusted for infant age, sex, season of 25(OH)D measurement, maternal age, education, smoking, and body-mass-index. Per 10 nmol/l increase in maternal early/mid-pregnancy 25(OH)D, infant Negative affectivity decreased by 0.02 standard deviations (95% confidence interval [CI] − 0.06, − 0.004) in VIDI, and 0.03 standard deviations (95% CI − 0.03, − 0.01) in Generation R. Cord blood 25(OH)D was associated with Negative affectivity in Generation R (− 0.03, 95% CI − 0.05, − 0.01), but not VIDI (0.00, 95% CI − 0.02, 0.02). Lower maternal 25(OH)D concentrations were consistently associated with higher infant Negative affectivity, while associations between cord blood 25(OH)D concentrations and Negative affectivity were less clear. Maternal vitamin D status during early- and mid-pregnancy may be linked with early-emerging differences in offspring behavior.
Network models to improve robot advisory portfolios
Authors: Giudici Paolo , Polinesi Gloria , Spelta Alessandro
Published: October 2021

Robot advisory services are rapidly expanding, responding to a growing interest people have in directly managing their savings. Robot-advisors may reduce costs and improve the quality of asset allocation services, making user’s involvement more transparent. Against this background, there exists the possibility that robot advisors underestimate market risks, especially during crisis times, when high order interconnections arise. This may lead to a mismatch between investors’ expected and actual risk. The aim of this paper is to overcome this issue, taking into account not only investors’ risk preference but also their attitude towards interconnectdness. To achieve this aim, we combine random matrix theory with correlation networks and extend the Markowitz’ optimisation problem to a third dimension. To demonstrate the practical advantage of our proposed approach we employ daily returns of a large set of Exchange Traded Funds, which are representative of the financial products employed by robot-advisors.
Seemingly Unrelated Interventions: Environmental Management Systems in the Workplace and Energy Saving Practices at Home
Authors: Arimura Toshi H. , Iwata Kazuyuki , Katayama Hajime , Sakudo Mari
Published: October 2021

To reduce their environmental impacts, a growing number of organizations worldwide have implemented environmental management systems (EMSs). In these organizations, energy conservation activities become usual behaviors for employees; thus, we hypothesize that employees continue such energy saving behaviors at home. This hypothesis is supported by data from surveys of individuals in Japan. Specifically, we find that the probability of engaging in energy saving practices at home is higher and that expenditures on electricity use are lower for individuals who work in organizations that implement EMSs than for individuals who do not work in organizations with EMSs. Our results suggest that beyond the original purpose of helping organizations reduce their environmental impacts, EMSs work as an intervention to promote household energy saving.
Socioecology Explains Individual Variation in Urban Space Use in Response to Management in Cape Chacma Baboons (Papio ursinus)
Authors: Bracken Anna M. , Christensen Charlotte , O’Riain M. Justin , Fehlmann Gaëlle , Holton Mark D. , Hopkins Phil W. , Fürtbauer Ines , King Andrew J.
Published: October 2021

The presence of wildlife adjacent to and within urban spaces is a growing phenomenon globally. When wildlife’s presence in urban spaces has negative impacts for people and wildlife, nonlethal and lethal interventions on animals invariably result. Recent evidence suggests that individuals in wild animal populations vary in both their propensity to use urban space and their response to nonlethal management methods. Understanding such interindividual differences and the drivers of urban space use could help inform management strategies. We use direct observation and high-resolution GPS (1 Hz) to track the space use of 13 adult individuals in a group of chacma baboons (Papio ursinus) living at the urban edge in Cape Town, South Africa. The group is managed by a dedicated team of field rangers, who use aversive conditioning to reduce the time spent by the group in urban spaces. Adult males are larger, more assertive, and more inclined to enter houses, and as such are disproportionately subject to “last resort” lethal management. Field rangers therefore focus efforts on curbing the movements of adult males, which, together with high-ranking females and their offspring, comprise the bulk of the group. However, our results reveal that this focus allows low-ranking, socially peripheral female baboons greater access to urban spaces. We suggest that movement of these females into urban spaces, alone or in small groups, is an adaptive response to management interventions, especially given that they have no natural predators. These results highlight the importance of conducting behavioral studies in conjunction with wildlife management, to ensure effective mitigation techniques.