bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early thromboelastography in acute traumatic coagulopathy: an observational study focusing on pre-hospital trauma care
Authors: Spasiano Alessandra , Barbarino Cristina , Marangone Anna , Orso Daniele , Trillò Giulio , Giacomello Roberta , Bove Tiziana , Della Rocca Giorgio
Published: September 2020

Background

Major brain injury and uncontrolled blood loss remain the primary causes of early trauma-related mortality. One-quarter to one-third of trauma patients exhibit trauma-induced coagulopathy (TIC). Thromboelastometry (ROTEM) and thrombelastography (TEG) are valuable alternatives to standard coagulation testing, providing a more comprehensive overview of the coagulation process.

Purpose

Evaluating thromboelastographic profile, the incidence of fibrinolysis (defined as Ly30 > 3%) in severe trauma patients, and factors influencing pathological coagulation pattern.

Methods

Prospective observational 2 years cohort study on severe trauma patients assisted by Helicopter Emergency Medical System (HEMS) and Level 1 Trauma Center, in a tertiary referral University Hospital.

Results

Eighty three patients were enrolled, mean NISS (new injury severity score) 36 (± 13). Mean R value decreased from 7.25 (± 2.6) to 6.19 (± 2.5) min (p < 0.03); 48 (60%) patients had a reduction in R from T0 to T1. In NISS 25–40 and NISS > 40 groups, changes in R value increased their significance (p = 0.04 and p < 0.03, respectively). Pathological TEG was found in 71 (88.8%) patients at T0 and 74 (92.5%) at T1. Hypercoagulation was present in 57 (71.3%) patients at T0, and in 66(82.5%) at T1. 9 (11.3%) patients had hyperfibrinolysis at T0, 7 (8.8%) patients at T1. Prevalence of StO2 < 75% at T0 was greater in patients whose TEG worsened (7 patients, 46.7%) against whose TEG remained stable or improved (8 patients, 17.4%) from T0 to T1 (p = 0.02). 48 (57.8%) patients received < 1000 mL of fluids, while 35 (42.2%) received ≥ 1000 mL. The first group had fewer patients with hypercoagulation (20, 41.6%) than the second (6, 17.6%) at T1 (p < 0.03). No differences were found for same TEG pattern at T0, nor other TEG pattern.

Conclusion

Our population is representative of a non-hemorrhagic severe injury subgroup. Almost all of our trauma population had coagulation abnormalities immediately after the trauma; pro-coagulant changes were the most represented regardless of the severity of injury. NISS appears to affect only R parameter on TEG. Hyperfibrinolysis has been found in a low percentage of patients. Hypoperfusion parameters do not help to identify patients with ongoing coagulation impairment. Small volume resuscitation and mild hypotermia does not affect coagulation, at least in the early post-traumatic phase.
Ultrasonography for the Prediction of High‐Volume Lymph Node Metastases in Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma: Should Surgeons Believe Ultrasound Results?
Authors: Liu Chunhao , Zhang Lei , Liu Yuewu , Xia Yu , Cao Yue , Liu Ziwen , Chen Ge , Liu Ning , Shang Zhonghua , Yang Jinbao , Sun Qinghe , Li Xiaoyi
Published: September 2020

Background

Lymph node metastasis (LNM) often occurs in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC); the efficacy of ultrasound for predicting high‐volume lymph node metastases (LNMs) in patients with PTC remains unexplored.

Methods

The medical records of 2073 consecutive PTC patients were reviewed. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) were calculated to evaluate the efficacy of ultrasound. Risk factors for LNM/high‐volume LNMs and lymph node involvement on ultrasound (usLNM) were identified by univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

Of all the patients, 936 (45.2%) patients had LNMs, and 254 (12.3%) patients had high‐volume LNMs. The sensitivity of ultrasound for detecting LNM/high‐volume LNMs was 27.9% and 63.8%, respectively; the specificity was 93.1% and 90.3%, respectively. The NPV for ultrasound in detecting high‐volume LNMs was 94.7%. In multivariate analysis, male sex (OR = 2.108, p < 0.001), tumor diameter > 1.0 cm (OR = 2.304, p < 0.001) and usLNM (+) (OR = 12.553, p < 0.001) were independent clinical risk factors for high‐volume LNMs. Tumor diameter > 1 cm (OR = 3.036, p < 0.001) and male sex (OR = 1.642, p < 0.001) were independent clinical risk factors for usLNM; a skilled sonographer (OR = 1.121, p = 0.358) was not significantly associated with usLNM.

Conclusions

Lymph node involvement found by ultrasound has great predictive value for high‐volume LNMs; the NPV is very high for patients without lymph node involvement on ultrasound. The ultrasound results do not appear to be influenced by the experience of the sonographer.
Treatment patterns and bleeding outcomes in persons with severe hemophilia A and B in a real-world setting
Authors: Ay Cihan , Perschy Leonard , Rejtö Judit , Kaider Alexandra , Pabinger Ingrid
Published: September 2020

The current standard of care treatment for severe hemophilia A and B (SHA and SHB) is the prophylactic intravenous replacement of coagulation factor VIII or IX (FVIII/FIX) to prevent spontaneous bleeding. Persons with hemophilia without prophylactic treatment receive therapy in case of bleeding, i.e., on demand. To assess treatment patterns, utilization of products, and bleeding outcomes in a real-world cohort of persons with SHA and SHB, defined as FVIII or FIX activity < 1%, data was retrospectively collected from hemophilia-specific patient diaries used for home treatment, medical records, and entries into the Austrian Hemophilia Registry from the year 2012 to 2017. Fifty-three male persons with SHA (n= 47) and SHB (n= 6) were included; 26 with SHA and 5 with SHB were on prophylaxis, 8 and 1 switched therapy regimen, and 13 and 0 received on-demand therapy. Persons on prophylaxis used a mean factor FVIII or FIX dose of 71.7 and 40.1 IU/kg/week. Median (IQR) annualized bleeding rates (ABR) in SHA were 28.0 (23.4–31.3) in the on-demand, 4.9 (1.6–13.5) in the prophylaxis group, and 3.0 (2.0–6.8) in the prophylactic group of SHB. Three persons with SHA had zero bleeds during the observation period. On-demand therapy and hepatitis B and C were associated with higher ABR but not age, weight, and HIV positivity. Bleeding rates and the proportion of on-demand therapy in persons with hemophilia were high in our real-world cohort. Further improvement is needed, which might be facilitated with the advent of factor products with extended half-life or non-factor therapies.
Management of delayed-onset skin flap complications after pediatric cochlear implantation
Authors: Bi Qingling , Chen Zhongyan , Lv Yong , Luo Jie , Wang Naya , Li Yuan
Published: September 2020

Purpose

To review delayed-onset skin flap complications associated with pediatric cochlear implantation (CI) in our institute, analyze the etiology, and explore effective treatment strategies.

Methods

Retrospective analyses of 811 children who had undergone cochlear implantation between January 2003 and March 2019 were performed. Twelve (1.48%) patients developed skin flap complications after CI. We present a classification of flap issues and wound histopathology following cochlear implantation. The interventions for flap problems included drug treatment, aspiration, local wound care, revision surgery, and explantation depending on the clinical situation. The temporalis myofascial reconstructive option is discussed.

Results

Seven subjects were cured with conservative treatment. Five cases with flap infection or necrosis underwent revision surgery, with wound closure in three cases (60%) and revision surgery with explantation in the remaining two cases (40%). Explantation ultimately led to wound healing in all cases. They all achieved excellent performance through re-implantation.

Conclusion

Flap complications after CI are rare but treatable. Comprehensive treatments should be developed to achieve a stable and healed wound for CI.
The gait disorder in primary orthostatic tremor
Authors: Möhwald Ken , Wuehr Max , Schenkel Fabian , Feil Katharina , Strupp Michael , Schniepp Roman
Published: September 2020

Objective

To uncover possible impairments of walking and dynamic postural stability in patients with primary orthostatic tremor (OT).

Methods

Spatiotemporal gait characteristics were quantified in 18 patients with primary OT (mean age 70.5 ± 5.9 years, 10 females) and 18 age-matched healthy controls. One-third of patients reported disease-related fall events. Walking performance was assessed on a pressure-sensitive carpet under seven conditions: walking at preferred, slow, and maximal speed, with head reclination or eyes closed, and while performing a cognitive or motor dual-task paradigm.

Results

Patients exhibited a significant gait impairment characterized by a broadened base of support (p = 0.018) with increased spatiotemporal gait variability (p = 0.010). Walking speed was moderately reduced (p = 0.026) with shortened stride length (p = 0.001) and increased periods of double support (p = 0.001). Gait dysfunction became more pronounced during slow walking (p < 0.001); this was not present during fast walking. Walking with eyes closed aggravated gait disability as did walking during cognitive dual task (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

OT is associated with a specific gait disorder with a staggering wide-based walking pattern indicative of a sensory and/or a cerebellar ataxic gait. The aggravation of gait instability during visual withdrawal and the normalization of walking with faster speeds further suggest a proprioceptive or vestibulo-cerebellar deficit as the primary source of gait disturbance in OT. In addition, the gait decline during cognitive dual task may imply cognitive processing deficits. In the end, OT is presumably a complex network disorder resulting in a specific spino-cerebello-frontocortical gait disorder that goes beyond mere tremor networks.
New 2-aminopyrimidine derivatives and their antitrypanosomal and antiplasmodial activities
Authors: Hoffelner Michael , Hassan Usama , Seebacher Werner , Dolensky Johanna , Hochegger Patrick , Kaiser Marcel , Mäser Pascal , Saf Robert , Weis Robert
Published: September 2020

Novel 2-aminopyrimidine derivatives were prepared from acyclic starting materials, benzylidene acetones and ammonium thiocyanates, via 5 steps, including ring closure, aromatization, S-methylation, oxidation to methylsulfonyl compounds, and formation of guanidines with suitable amines. The prepared compounds differ from each other by the substitutions of their amino group and of their phenyl ring. The 2-aminopyrimidines were tested by use of microplate assays for their in vitro activities against a causative organism of sleeping sickness, Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense, as well as against a causative organism of malaria, Plasmodium falciparum NF54. Their cytotoxic properties were determined with L-6 cells (rat skeletal myoblasts). Some of the compounds exhibited quite good antitrypanosomal activity, and others showed excellent antiplasmodial activity. The influence of the structural modifications on these activities is discussed.

Graphic abstract
Wave motion compensation in dynamic positioning of small autonomous vessels
Authors: Halvorsen Håkon S. , Øveraas Henning , Landstad Olav , Smines Vidar , Fossen Thor I. , Johansen Tor A.
Published: September 2020

Conventional dynamic positioning (DP) systems on larger ships compensate primarily for slowly time-varying environmental forces. In doing so, they use wave filtering to prevent the DP from compensating for the first-order wave motions. This reduces wear and tear of the thruster and machinery systems. In the case of smaller autonomous vessels, the oscillatory motion of the vessel in waves may be more significant, and the thrusters can be more dynamic. This motivates the use of DP to compensate for horizontal wave motions in certain operations. We study the design of DP control and filtering algorithms that employ acceleration feedback, roll damping, wave motion prediction, and optimal tuning. Six control strategies are compared in the case study, which is a small autonomous surface vessel where the critical mode of operation is launch and recovery of an ROV through the wave zone.
Things left unsaid: important topics that are not discussed between patients with systemic sclerosis, their carers and their healthcare professionals—a discourse analysis
Authors: Denton Christopher P. , Laird Bee , Moros Lizette , Luna Flores Jose Luis
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare condition that can be complicated by interstitial lung fibrosis (SSc-ILD)—a major cause of mortality. This study explored information and communication needs of patients with SSc-ILD and their carers to understand what they are and whether they are met.

Methods

Qualitative research was performed, including in-depth individual interviews and observed conversations between pairs of patients, physicians and nurses, and between patients and physicians discussing experiences of SSc-ILD. The study was performed in Germany, Italy, Spain, the UK and the USA. Participants included 42 SSc-treating physicians, 21 patients with diagnosed SSc-ILD, 16 specialist nurses and five carers.

Results

Prognosis and mortality were the main unspoken topics acknowledged by patients, carers and healthcare professionals. Patients and carers felt afraid to ask physicians about mortality, and most physicians reported avoiding the question because their duty was to give patients hope and avoid causing additional distress. Patients often felt unable to ask physicians about relationships, family and work because of time constraints or because they felt these were not topics physicians would be concerned about. Often, specialist nurses felt that they had insufficient knowledge to provide adequate support.

Conclusion

Key topics, including mortality and prognosis, are rarely openly discussed, leaving patients uncertain and anxious about the future. By communicating about difficult but important topics, physicians and nurses could help patients and carers manage and plan their lives. This study shows that a multi-professional team-based communication approach is likely to better address patient needs and priorities.

Key Points

• Key topics in SSc or SSc-ILD, such as mortality and prognosis, are rarely openly discussed in clinical consultations.

• By communicating difficult but important topics, physicians and nurses could help patients manage their disease and plan their lives.

• A multi-professional team-based communication approach is likely to better address patient needs and priorities and could be easily implemented without the need for significant additional resources.
Weak swimming response of a bdelloid rotifer to chemical cues of a native copepod predator
Authors: Parysek Marta , Pietrzak Barbara
Published: September 2020

Whether bdelloid rotifers can detect and respond to the chemical cues of predators has not been studied, and research on their behaviour is scarce in general. To test for such response, we observed the behaviour of Philodina megalotrocha rotifers in either control or copepod-conditioned water. We then introduced a mechanical disturbance to test if predator odour sensitises rotifers to subsequent cues. We found intensified swimming in P. megalotrocha exposed to Macrocyclops fuscus-conditioned water, i.e. the larger and more predatory of the tested copepods. Such response may be adaptive, depending on the predominant hunting mode of the predator in the particular habitat.
A reference high-pressure CH4 adsorption isotherm for zeolite Y: results of an interlaboratory study
Authors: Nguyen H. G. T. , Sims C. M. , Toman B. , Horn J. , van Zee R. D. , Thommes M. , Ahmad R. , Denayer J. F. M. , Baron G. V. , Napolitano E. , Bielewski M. , Mangano E. , Brandani S. , Broom D. P. , Benham M. J. , Dailly A. , Dreisbach F. , Edubilli S. , Gumma S. , Möllmer J. , Lange M. , Tian M. , Mays T. J. , Shigeoka T. , Yamakita S. , Hakuman M. , Nakada Y. , Nakai K. , Hwang J. , Pini R. , Jiang H. , Ebner A. D. , Nicholson M. A. , Ritter J. A. , Farrando-Pérez J. , Cuadrado-Collados C. , Silvestre-Albero J. , Tampaxis C. , Steriotis T. , Řimnáčová D. , Švábová M. , Vorokhta M. , Wang H. , Bovens E. , Heymans N. , De Weireld G.
Published: September 2020

This paper reports the results of an international interlaboratory study led by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) on the measurement of high-pressure surface excess methane adsorption isotherms on NIST Reference Material RM 8850 (Zeolite Y), at 25 °C up to 7.5 MPa. Twenty laboratories participated in the study and contributed over one-hundred adsorption isotherms of methane on Zeolite Y. From these data, an empirical reference equation was determined, along with a 95% uncertainty interval (Uk=2). By requiring participants to replicate a high-pressure reference isotherm for carbon dioxide adsorption on NIST Reference Material RM 8852 (ZSM-5), this interlaboratory study also demonstrated the usefulness of reference isotherms in evaluating the performance of high-pressure adsorption experiments.
Kinetics of liquid phase batch adsorption experiments
Authors: Brandani Stefano
Published: September 2020

Batch adsorption experiments are carried out by adding a known amount of adsorbent to a liquid solution at a known initial concentration and following the evolution in time of the concentration of the adsorbate. This is a very common method to obtain equilibrium and kinetic information in liquid systems, but in most cases kinetic results are analysed on the basis of empirical models. Two phenomenological models based on macropore diffusion in beads and shrinking core kinetics are used to generate data that are then interpreted with the widely used unconstrained linear regression methods. The results show that for both cases R2 values close to unity are obtained leading to the incorrect interpretation of the mechanism of mass transport. It is recommended that batch adsorption experiments should be analysed using phenomenological models to obtain physical parameters that are applicable to other systems and to reduce the experiments required to characterise fully the kinetics of adsorption.
Behaviourism in Disguise: The Triviality of Ramsey Sentence Functionalism
Authors: Lowther T. S.
Published: September 2020

Functionalism has become one of the predominant theories in the philosophy of mind, with its many merits supposedly including its capacity for precise formulation. The most common method to express this precise formulation is by means of the modified Ramsey sentence. In this article, I will apply work from the field of the philosophy of science to functionalism for the first time, examining how Newman’s objection undermines the Ramsey sentence as a means of formalising functionalism. I will also present a formal variation on Newman’s objection through mathematical induction. Together, these proofs suggest that functionalism formalised by the Ramsey sentence trivially reduces to a kind of behaviourism plus a cardinality constraint on the number of relations holding between mental-relevant behaviours. As most functionalists see functionalism as a distinct theory of mind from behaviourism, this suggests that the modified Ramsey sentence cannot form a satisfactory formalism for functionalism.
Impact of technostress on academic productivity of university students
Authors: Upadhyaya Pallavi , Vrinda
Published: September 2020

There has been increasing interest among researchers to understand the negative effects of technology, in the last two decades. Technostress or stress induced due to technology is extensively reported in the literature, among working professionals. Even though there has been an increased proliferation of digital devices in academia, there is a dearth of studies examining the prevalence of technostress and its impact among students. This study examines the prevalence of technostress among the younger population, in the age group of 18–28 years. Using a sample of 673 Indian private university students, this study cross-validated the technostress instrument. Increased use of technology in higher education has compelled students to complete all their academic work, including assessments, using technology. Technology-enhanced learning applications such as learning management systems, MOOCs and digital exam devices require students to develop ICT skills. The study also investigates the impact of technostress on the academic productivity of students. Findings reveal that the technostress instrument is valid to be used in the academic context, with minor modifications, and students experienced moderate levels of technostress. It was also found that technostress had a negative impact on the academic productivity of students.
Treatment of environmental contamination using sepiolite: current approaches and future potential
Authors: Song Na , Hursthouse Andrew , McLellan Iain , Wang Zhenghua
Published: September 2020

To evaluate the potential of sepiolite-based materials to resolve environmental pollution problems, a study is needed which looks at the whole life cycle of material application, including the residual value of material classified as waste from the exploitation of sepiolite deposits in the region or from its processing and purification. This would also maximize value from the exploitation process and provide new potential for local waste management. We review the geographical distribution of sepiolite, its application in the treatment of potentially toxic elements in soil and across the wider landscape, an assessment of modification and compositional variation of sepiolite-based applications within site remediation and wastewater treatment. The potential of sepiolite-based technologies is widespread and a number of processes utilize sepiolite-derived materials. Along with its intrinsic characteristics, both the long-term durability and the cost-effectiveness of the application need to be considered, making it possible to design ready-to-use products with good market acceptance. From a critical analysis of the literature, the most frequently associated terms associated with sepiolite powder are the use of lime and bentonite, while fly ash ranked in the top ten of the most frequently used material with sepiolite. These add improved performance for the inclusion as a soil or wastewater treatment options, alone or applied in combination with other treatment methods. This approach needs an integrated assessment to establish economic viability and environmental performance. Applications are not commonly evaluated from a cost–benefit perspective, in particular in relation to case studies within geographical regions hosting primary sepiolite deposits and wastes that have the potential for beneficial reuse.
APOL1 polymorphism modulates sphingolipid profile of human podocytes
Authors: Valsecchi Manuela , Cazzetta Valentina , Oriolo Ferdinando , Lan Xiqian , Piazza Rocco , Saleem Moin A. , Singhal Pravin C. , Mavilio Domenico , Mikulak Joanna , Aureli Massimo
Published: September 2020

Apolipoprotein L1 (APOL1) wild type (G0) plays a role in the metabolism of sphingolipids, glycosphingolipids, sphingomyelin and ceramide, which constitute bioactive components of the lipid rafts (DRM). We asked whether APOL1 variants (APOL1-Vs) G1 and G2 carry the potential to alter the metabolism of sphingolipids in human podocytes. The sphingolipid pattern in HPs overexpressing either APOL1G0 or APOL1-Vs was analysed by using a thin mono- and bi-dimensional layer chromatography, mass-spectrometry and metabolic labelling with [1-3H]sphingosine. HP G0 and G1/G2-Vs exhibit a comparable decrease in lactosylceramide and an increase in the globotriaosylceramide content. An analysis of the main glycohydrolases activity involved in glycosphingolipid catabolism showed an overall decrease in the activeness of the tested enzymes, irrespective of the type of APOL1-Vs expression. Similarly, the high throughput cell live-based assay showed a comparable increased action of the plasma membrane glycosphingolipid-glycohydrolases in living cells independent of the genetic APOL1 expression profile. Importantly, the most significative modification of the sphingolipid pattern induced by APOL1-Vs occurred in DRM resulted with a drastic reduction of radioactivity associated with sphingolipids. G1/G2-Vs present a decrease amount of globotriaosylceramide and globopentaosylceramide compared to G0. Additionally, ceramide at the DRM site and lactosylceramide in general, showed a greatest fall in G1/G2 in comparison with G0. Additionally, the levels of glucosylceramide decreased only in the DRM of human podocytes overexpressing G1/G2-Vs. These findings suggest that altered sphingolipidsprofiles may contribute to the deranged functionality of the plasma membrane in APOL1 risk milieu.
Glaucoma patients have an increased level of trimethylamine, a toxic product of gut bacteria, in the aqueous humor: a pilot study
Authors: Skrzypecki Janusz , Izdebska J. , Kamińska A. , Badowska J. , Przybek-Skrzypecka J. , Bombuy J. , Samborowska E. , Szaflik J. P.
Published: September 2020

Purpose

Animal studies suggest that gut bacteria metabolites are involved in regulation of intraocular pressure or development of glaucoma. However, clinical data are lacking. Here, we wanted to compare level of trimethylamine (TMA), an uremic toxin produced by gut bacteria, along with betaine and trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), a substrate and a product of its metabolism, in the aqueous humor and in plasma of patients with glaucoma and their controls.

Methods

Twenty patients were selected for cataract phacoemulsification, and 20 patients selected for phacotrabeculectomy were enrolled in the study. Patients were matched with controls on systemic diseases and estimated glomerular filtration rate. Blood samples were collected in the preoperative suite, whereas aqueous humor samples were collected as the first step of both procedures. Subsequently, level of betaine, TMA and TMAO was analyzed by means of chromatography.

Results

In the aqueous humor, level of TMA, but not betaine or TMAO, was significantly higher in the phacotrabeculectomy group than in the phacoemulsification group. Plasma level of betaine, TMA and TMAO was similar between groups. In both groups, level of betaine and TMA, but not TMAO, was significantly higher in plasma than in the aqueous humor.

Conclusion

TMA, but not TMAO or betaine level, is increased in the aqueous humor of patients with glaucoma. TMA might play a role in pathogenesis of glaucoma; however, prospective studies are needed to confirm our findings.
Agrarian Vision, Industrial Vision, and Rent-Seeking: A Viewpoint
Authors: Jauernig Johanna , Pies Ingo , Thompson Paul B. , Valentinov Vladislav
Published: September 2020

Many public debates about the societal significance and impact of agriculture are usefully framed by Paul Thompson’s distinction between the “agrarian” and the “industrial vision.” The key argument of the present paper is that the ongoing debate between these visions goes beyond academic philosophy and has direct effects on the political economy of agriculture by influencing the scope of rent-seeking activities that are undertaken primarily in the name of the agrarian vision. The existence of rent-seeking activities is shown to reflect the fact that the agrarian vision is not universally supported, which is certainly true of the industrial vision as well. The key argument of the present paper is that these two philosophical visions of agriculture are not radically incongruent. Rather, they share a common ground within which they are even mutually supportive. If agricultural policy making is oriented toward this common ground, it may reduce overall dissatisfaction with the resulting institutional regime of agricultural production. Such an agricultural policy may also stimulate the emergence of new business practices that not only enable efficient agricultural production but also minimize negative ecological impact and preserve cultural landscapes.
Studying the Composition and Mineralogy of the Hermean Surface with the Mercury Radiometer and Thermal Infrared Spectrometer (MERTIS) for the BepiColombo Mission: An Update
Authors: Hiesinger H. , Helbert J. , Alemanno G. , Bauch K. E. , D’Amore M. , Maturilli A. , Morlok A. , Reitze M. P. , Stangarone C. , Stojic A. N. , Varatharajan I. , Weber I. ,   the MERTIS Co-I Team
Published: September 2020

Launched onboard the BepiColombo Mercury Planetary Orbiter (MPO) in October 2018, the Mercury Radiometer and Thermal Infrared Spectrometer (MERTIS) is on its way to planet Mercury. MERTIS consists of a push-broom IR-spectrometer (TIS) and a radiometer (TIR), which operate in the wavelength regions of 7-14 μm and 7-40 μm, respectively. This wavelength region is characterized by several diagnostic spectral signatures: the Christiansen feature (CF), Reststrahlen bands (RB), and the Transparency feature (TF), which will allow us to identify and map rock-forming silicates, sulfides as well as other minerals. Thus, the instrument is particularly well-suited to study the mineralogy and composition of the hermean surface at a spatial resolution of about 500 m globally and better than 500 m for approximately 5-10% of the surface. The instrument is fully functional onboard the BepiColombo spacecraft and exceeds all requirements (e.g., mass, power, performance). To prepare for the science phase at Mercury, the team developed an innovative operations plan to maximize the scientific output while at the same time saving spacecraft resources (e.g., data downlink). The upcoming fly-bys will be excellent opportunities to further test and adapt our software and operational procedures. In summary, the team is undertaking action at multiple levels, including performing a comprehensive suite of spectroscopic measurements in our laboratories on relevant analog materials, performing extensive spectral modeling, examining space weathering effects, and modeling the thermal behavior of the hermean surface.
Revision of Coelastrella (Scenedesmaceae, Chlorophyta) and first register of this green coccoid microalga for continental Norway
Authors: Goecke F. , Noda J. , Paliocha M. , Gislerød H. R.
Published: September 2020

A terrestrial green microalga was isolated at Ås, in Akershus County, Norway. The strain corresponded to a coccoid chlorophyte. Morphological characteristics by light and electron microscopy, in conjunction with DNA amplification and sequencing of the 18 s rDNA gene and ITS sequences, were used to identify the microalgae. The characteristics agree with those of the genus Coelastrella defined by Chodat, and formed a sister group with the recently described C. thermophila var. globulina. Coelastrella is a relatively small numbered genus that has not been observed in continental Norway before; there are no previous cultures available in collections of Norwegian strains. Gas chromatography analyses of the FAME-derivatives showed a high percentage of polyunsaturated fatty acids (44–45%) especially linolenic acid (C18:3n3; 30–34%). After the stationary phase, the cultures were able to accumulate several carotenoids as neoxanthin, pheophytin a, astaxanthin, canthaxanthin, lutein, and violaxanthin. Due to the scarcity of visual characters suitable for diagnostic purposes and the lack of DNA sequence information, there is a high possibility that species of this genus have been neglected in local environmental studies, even though it showed interesting properties for algal biotechnology.
MetaboShiny: interactive analysis and metabolite annotation of mass spectrometry-based metabolomics data
Authors: Wolthuis Joanna C. , Magnusdottir Stefania , Pras-Raves Mia , Moshiri Maryam , Jans Judith J. M. , Burgering Boudewijn , van Mil Saskia , de Ridder Jeroen
Published: September 2020

Direct infusion untargeted mass spectrometry-based metabolomics allows for rapid insight into a sample’s metabolic activity. However, analysis is often complicated by the large array of detected m/z values and the difficulty to prioritize important m/z and simultaneously annotate their putative identities. To address this challenge, we developed MetaboShiny, a novel R/RShiny-based metabolomics package featuring data analysis, database- and formula-prediction-based annotation and visualization. To demonstrate this, we reproduce and further explore a MetaboLights metabolomics bioinformatics study on lung cancer patient urine samples. MetaboShiny enables rapid and rigorous analysis and interpretation of direct infusion untargeted mass spectrometry-based metabolomics data.
Comparing the incomparable? A review of methodical aspects in the sustainability assessment of wood in vehicles
Authors: Mair-Bauernfeind Claudia , Zimek Martina , Lettner Miriam , Hesser Franziska , Baumgartner Rupert J. , Stern Tobias
Published: September 2020

Purpose

The choice of materials used for a vehicle can contribute to reduce negative environmental and social impacts. Bio-based materials are considered a promising solution; however, the sustainability effects still need to be assessed. Depending on the material assessed, it is questionable which environmental and social impact categories or subcategories should be included since recommendations in guidelines are vague and case studies in this regard are limited. Therefore, this study aims to shed light on the choice of impact categories, methods, and indicators for E-LCA and S-LCA when assessing wood as substitute for conventional materials in automotive applications.

Method

The research is based on a literature review covering 115 case studies of S-LCAs and E-LCAs focusing either on wood-based products or on components in automotive applications. The selected case studies were analyzed according to the following criteria: considered stakeholder groups and chosen subcategories (S-LCA sample), sector or product system (S-LCA sample), year of publication and geographical scope (S-LCA and E-LCA sample), chosen LCIA method(s) and impact categories, objective(s) of the studies, analyzed materials and used software support (E-LCA samples).

Results and discussion

For S-LCA some relevant social topics for bio-based product systems, like food security or land- and worker-related concerns, could be identified. The E-LCA literature suggests that the objective and material type determine calculation approaches and impact category choices. Some material-related environmental issues like biodiversity loss in the case of bio-based product systems or ecotoxicity for steel and toxicity in the case of aluminum could be identified. For S-LCA the geographical and sectorial context and the affected stakeholders are the determining factors for methodical choices, however, the results show almost no difference in subcategory choice and geographical context. Influencing factors for methodical choices in E-LCA might be the objective of the study, data availability, the up-to-dateness of the LCIA approach, the geographical scope of the study, the materials analyzed, and the availability of software support.

Conclusion

Some relevant environmental and social impact categories as well as influencing factors on methodical choices could be identified from existing literature. However, a clear picture on these issues could not be drawn. Further research is needed on the motivation of researches on certain methodical choices as well as on environmental issues connected with materials or geographical-related social topics.
Top-down characterization of resource use in LCA: from problem definition of resource use to operational characterization factors for dissipation of elements to the environment
Authors: van Oers Lauran , Guinée Jeroen B. , Heijungs Reinout , Schulze Rita , Alvarenga Rodrigo A. F. , Dewulf Jo , Drielsma Johannes , Sanjuan-Delmás David , Kampmann Tobias C. , Bark Glenn , Uriarte Ainara Garcia , Menger Pierre , Lindblom Mats , Alcon Lucas , Ramos Manuel Sevilla , Torres Juan Manuel Escobar
Published: September 2020

Purpose

The methods for assessing the impact of using abiotic resources in life cycle assessment (LCA) have always been heavily debated. One of the main reasons for this is the lack of a common understanding of the problem related to resource use. This article reports the results of an effort to reach such common understanding between different stakeholder groups and the LCA community. For this, a top-down approach was applied.

Methods

To guide the process, a four-level top-down framework was used to (1) demarcate the problem that needs to be assessed, (2) translate this into a modeling concept, (3) derive mathematical equations and fill these with data necessary to calculate the characterization factors, and (4) align the system boundaries and assumptions that are made in the life cycle impact assessment (LCIA) model and the life cycle inventory (LCI) model.

Results

We started from the following definition of the problem of using resources: the decrease of accessibility on a global level of primary and/or secondary elements over the very long term or short term due to the net result of compromising actions. The system model distinguishes accessible and inaccessible stocks in both the environment and the technosphere. Human actions can compromise the accessible stock through environmental dissipation, technosphere hibernation, and occupation in use or through exploration. As a basis for impact assessment, we propose two parameters: the global change in accessible stock as a net result of the compromising actions and the global amount of the accessible stock. We propose three impact categories for the use of elements: environmental dissipation, technosphere hibernation, and occupation in use, with associated characterization equations for two different time horizons. Finally, preliminary characterization factors are derived and applied in a simple illustrative case study for environmental dissipation.

Conclusions

Due to data constraints, at this moment, only characterization factors for “dissipation to the environment” over a very-long-term time horizon could be elaborated. The case study shows that the calculation of impact scores might be hampered by insufficient LCI data. Most presently available LCI databases are far from complete in registering the flows necessary to assess the impacts on the accessibility of elements. While applying the framework, various choices are made that could plausibly be made differently. We invite our peers to also use this top-down framework when challenging our choices and elaborate that into a consistent set of choices and assumptions when developing LCIA methods.
Long-term causes of populism
Authors: Bischi Gian Italo , Favaretto Federico , Carrera Edgar J. Sanchez
Published: September 2020

Why is populism emerging now in Europe? Why is it present in USA and Latin America? What model of political choice may explain these facts? Our paper addresses these questions by building an evolutionary game with two groups of players that decide whether to support a populist party by weighting demand for redistribution and demand for tough policy against immigration. Fundamentally, it is assumed that agents care about immigration the more they fear it and the higher number of other people care about it. Overall, positive shifts in the fear of immigration and increases in inequality drive citizens to converge toward supporting populists. The stability of the equilibria depends on the crucial parameters of the model, namely: fear of immigrants, the effect that the population type (the number of citizens supporting populism) have on individual preferences, economic inequality. Different equilibria represent different cases of populism: South-American left-wing populism and European right-wing populism. We propose that an economic society with a low inequality of wealth and with a low fear of immigrants is needed to avoid populism.
If phenolic compounds in the soil with buckwheat residues affect the emergence and growth of weed seedlings?
Authors: Szwed Magdalena , Mitrus Joanna , Wiczkowski Wiesław , Dębski Henryk , Horbowicz Marcin
Published: September 2020

This study was conducted to determine if common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) residues affect a phenolics composition in soil, and are effective for limiting emergence, growth and metabolic changes in barnyard grass (Echinochloa crus-galli (L.) P. Beauv.), wild oat (Avena fatua L.), yellow foxtail (Setaria pumila Schult.), silky windgrass (Apera spica-venti L.), catchweed bedstraw (Galium aparine L.), scentless mayweed (Matricaria inodora L.), and tiny vetch (Vicia hirsuta L.). In the study, the residues of 14-day-old buckwheat plants were used (cv. Hruszowska). After removal of the above-ground parts, the buckwheat root residues (BRR) remained in the soil for an additional 7 days before the weeds were sown. For comparison, under the same cultivation conditions, the effect of entire buckwheat plant residues (BPR) in soil was assessed. BPR and BRR in the soil caused a decrease in the emergence of all weed species except the tiny vetch. The growth of barnyard grass, wild oat, yellow foxtail, catchweed bedstraw, and scentless mayweed was inhibited by BRR, but not BPR. BRR had a particularly strong inhibitory effect on the growth of scentless mayweed (SM) and catchweed bedstraw (CB). Thirty-day-old SM and CB control plants were about 4 and 3.5 times higher, respectively, than plants growing in the presence of BRR. Furthermore, chlorophyll and carotenoid contents in the barnyard grass and catchweed bedstraw were more prominently reduced by BRR than BPR. Stressful conditions caused by buckwheat residues in the soil increased the level of phenolic compounds in the tissues of weeds examined. Soil with buckwheat residues contained a low level of phenolic compounds, which may indicate their slow release from the residue or rapid utilisation by microorganisms. These phenolic compounds probably cannot be directly responsible for allelopathic inhibition of weed emergence and growth.
Self-Adjoint Extensions with Friedrichs Lower Bound
Authors: Gallone Matteo , Michelangeli Alessandro
Published: September 2020

We produce a simple criterion and a constructive recipe to identify those self-adjoint extensions of a lower semi-bounded symmetric operator on Hilbert space which have the same lower bound as the Friedrichs extension. Applications of this abstract result to a few instructive examples are then discussed.
Comparison of differences in bone microarchitecture in adult- versus juvenile-onset type 1 diabetes Asian males versus non-diabetes males: an observational cross-sectional pilot study
Authors: Xu Lingling , Yu Jie , Wang Ou , Hou Yanfang , Li Wei , Zhang Huabing , Ping Fan , Xu Qun , Li Yuxiu , Xia Weibo
Published: September 2020

Purpose

Evidence about bone microarchitecture in Asian type 1 diabetes (T1D) patients is lacking. We assessed the bone microarchitecture in T1D patients versus controls and compare the differences between juvenile-onset and adult-onset T1D patients.

Methods

This cross-sectional study recruited 32 Asian males with T1D and 32 age-, sex-, and body mass index (BMI)-matched controls. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) for ultradistal nondominant radius and tibia were performed. The data were analyzed using Student’s t test and analysis of covariance.

Results

Among the patients, 15 had juvenile-onset T1D, with a median disease duration of 11 years, and 17 had adult-onset T1D, with a median disease duration of 7 years. At the radius, adult-onset and juvenile-onset T1D patients had lower total volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD), trabecular vBMD, trabecular bone volume fraction (BV/TV), and trabecular thickness (Tb.Th) (p < 0.05) than the control subjects. After adjusting for BMI, disease duration, and insulin dose, juvenile-onset patients tended to have lower trabecular vBMD, BV/TV, Tb.Th, and intracortical porosity (Ct.Po) than adult-onset patients. At the tibia, adult-onset patients displayed lower total vBMD, lower Ct. vBMD, and higher Ct.Po (p < 0.05), while juvenile-onset patients had lower Tb.Th and standard deviation of trabecular number (1/Tb.N.SD) (p < 0.05) than control subjects. After adjustment for covariates, adult-onset patients tended to have higher cortical pore diameter (Ct.Po.Dm) than juvenile-onset patients.

Conclusions

T1D patients were associated with compromised bone microarchitecture, adult-onset and juvenile-onset T1D patients demonstrated some differences in cortical and trabecular microarchitecture.
Kisspeptin and LH pulsatility in patients with functional hypothalamic amenorrhea
Authors: Podfigurna Agnieszka , Maciejewska-Jeske Marzena , Meczekalski Blazej , Genazzani Alessandro D.
Published: September 2020

Purpose

Functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (FHA) occurs in response to exaggerated stressors with or without body weight loss. Various hormones, neurotransmitters, and neuromodulators are involved in the control of GnRH and kisspeptin is one of them. Our study aimed to evaluate the putative temporal coupling between kisspeptin and GnRH-induced LH pulsatile secretion.

Methods

In total, 71 patients with FHA were selected for this study. All patients undergo to a pulsatility study for LH and kisspeptin evaluation (120 min, sampling every 10 min), and to an endocrine evaluation for prolactin (PRL), estradiol (E2), androstenedione (A), 17-hydroxy-progesterone (17OHP), TSH, fT3, fT4, insulin, cortisol and testosterone (T), glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides.

Results

Our data demonstrated kisspeptin and LH pulsatile secretions and that both hormones are co-secreted and temporally coupled at time 0 (p < 0.05). When patients were subdivided in hypo-LH (≤3 mIU/ml, n = 58) and normo-LH (>3 mIU/ml, n = 13), more insights were observed on the specific correlations of metabolic and hormone profiles with pulsatility indexes of LH and kisspeptin.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated the presence of a distinct kisspeptin episodic secretion in patients with FHA, and showed the temporally coupling of kisspeptin with LH secretory episodes thus supporting that though in amenorrhea, the reproductive axis is still relying on kisspeptin to drive GnRH discharge. In addition, correlations among hormonal data sustain the hypothesis that stress-induced compensatory events are the main direct and indirect promoters of the reproductive blockade in patients affected by FHA.
Karrierewege FH-Professur
Authors: Rademaker Anna Lena , Stricker Michael
Published: September 2020

Der Beitrag setzt sich aus Teilnehmendensicht mit dem Modellprogramm „Karrierewege FH-Professur“ auseinander, das 2016 bis 2020 in NRW durchgeführt wurde und gibt Anregungen zu dessen Fort- und Weiterentwicklung.
Benefits and Limitations of Eliciting the Well-Being Views of Two-Four Year Olds Living in a Low-Income Area in England
Authors: Street Martina
Published: September 2020

This paper reports findings from a small-scale qualitative study exploring the views of two - four year olds about their well-being. While interest in children’s views about their well-being has been increasing over the past couple of decades, the views of young children are under-researched, particularly those living in low-income areas. Deficit social constructions of young children and their capacities to ‘express’ (usually understood as ‘verbalise’) ‘reasoned’ (usually understood as ‘cognitive’) views have largely fuelled their exclusion. The study involved 18 young children living in one of England’s most economically disadvantaged areas. Data were generated with children by using the Mosaic Approach, comprising multiple creative methods. The findings suggest that young children conceptualise their well-being in the here-and-now; they enjoy opportunities to be social and to participate in activities and decisions that affect them. However, while it may be beneficial to young children’s sense of well-being to acknowledge their agency, and to treat their views with respect, it may be more beneficial to them to do so by also recognising their ‘mutuality of being’. In this sense, eliciting the views of young children about their well-being is not only under-researched, but under-socialised and de-historicised. The paper concludes by proposing an integrative approach to well-being, which neither privileges nor abstracts children from their social and material contexts.