bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tightening Asylum and Migration Law and Narrowing the Access to European Countries: A Comparative Discussion
Authors: Pannia Paola
Published: April 2021

This chapter aims to explore and analyse the tangled interplay of political discourses, policies and legislations in the field of asylum and migration that runs across the countries under scrutiny (the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Greece, Italy, Switzerland and the UK, hereinafter SIRIUS countries). Building on empirical evidence, we highlight some main trends registered across SIRIUS countries: the narrowing and slowing down of access to international protection that results from the recourse to push-back operations and the construction of fences, but also procedures provided by the EU asylum acquis, such as the accelerated procedure. This restraining tendency is even more acute in the field of economic-related migration, where in most of the SIRIUS countries legal entry channels are mostly reserved for those who are considered eligible due to their economic resources or talent, such as high-skilled workers, investors or rich entrepreneurs. These restrictive measures often rely on narratives that question the sincerity of the asylum claim, and criminalise migration and humanitarian assistance. Meanwhile, legislative landscapes on migration and asylum are increasingly populated by symbolic laws, which downgrade foreigners’ rights and weaken standards. Their explicit aim is to dissuade migrants from coming to the country, while catering for natives’ fears and responding to domestic electoral consensus-building.
The Persistent Influence of Socio-Economic Background on Family Formation Pathways and Disadvantage in Young Adulthood
Authors: Mooyaart Jarl
Published: April 2021

This chapter focuses on the linkages between socio-economic background, family formation and economic (dis)advantage and reveals to what extent the influence of parental education on family formation persists over time, i.e. across birth cohorts. The second part of this chapter examines to what extent the influence of socio-economic background persists over the life-course. This part covers: (1) the influence of parental education on union formation over the life-course, and (2) the influence of socio-economic background on income trajectories in young adulthood, after adjusting for the career and family pathways that young adults followed during the transition to adulthood, thereby examining the influence of socio-economic background on income beyond the first stage of young adulthood. This chapter reveals two key insights on the linkages between socio-economic background, family formation and (dis)advantage: (1) Whereas union and family formation patterns have changed across birth cohorts, socio-economic background continues to stratify union and family formation pathways; (2) Although the influence of socio-economic background on family formation and young adults’ economic position decreases throughout young adulthood, socio-economic background continues to have an impact in young adulthood.
Explaining Cross-National Differences in Social Background Effects: What Have We Learned?
Authors: Liefbroer Aart C.
Published: April 2021

This chapter provides an overview of economic, cultural and institutional narratives capable of explaining cross-national variation in the consequences of childhood disadvantage for socio-demographic outcomes in adulthood. However, testing these explanations is often hard, given a series of methodological challenges. Next, the ways in which the Contexts of Opportunity Project has tackled these challenges and its key results are presented. Childhood disadvantage has pervasive consequences for demographic outcomes in young adulthood and socio-economic and well-being outcomes in later adulthood. Strong cross-national variation in the strength of these relationships is observed, though. Childhood disadvantage often seems to have weaker consequences in more individualized societies. The chapter concludes with a discussion of future challenges for demographic research on cross-national differences.
‘A Serious Injustice to the Individual’: British Child Migration to Australia as Policy Failure
Authors: Lynch Gordon
Published: April 2021

The Introduction sets this book in the wider context of recent studies and public interest in historic child abuse. Noting other international cases of child abuse in the context of public programmes and other institutional contexts, it is argued that children’s suffering usually arose not from an absence of policy and legal protections but a failure to implement these effectively. The assisted migration of unaccompanied children from the United Kingdom to Australia is presented, particularly in the post-war period, as another such example of systemic failures to maintain known standards of child welfare. The focus of the book on policy decisions and administrative systems within the UK Government is explained and the relevance of this study to the historiography of child migration and post-war child welfare is also set out.
Analysis of Warpage Induced by Thick Copper Metal on Semiconductor Device
Authors: Calabretta Michele , Sitta Alessandro , Oliveri Salvatore Massimo , Sequenzia Gaetano
Published: April 2021

Electrochemical deposited (ECD) thick film copper on silicon substrate is one of the most challenging technological brick for semiconductor industry representing a relevant improvement from the state of art because of its excellent electrical and thermal conductivity compared with traditional compound such as aluminum. The main technological factor that makes challenging the industrial implementation of thick copper layer is the severe wafer warpage induced by Cu annealing process, which negatively impacts the wafer manufacturability. The aim of presented work is the understanding of warpage variation during annealing process of ECD thick (~20 µm) copper layer. Warpage has been experimental characterized at different temperature by means of Phase-Shift Moiré principle, according to different annealing profiles. A linear Finite Element Model (FEM) has been developed to predict the geometrically stress-curvature relation, comparing results with analytical models.
Finite Element Modeling and Validation of Metal Deposition in Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Chergui Akram , Beraud Nicolas , Vignat Frédéric , Villeneuve François
Published: April 2021

Wire arc additive manufacturing allows the production of metallic parts by depositing beads of weld metal using arc-welding technologies. This low-cost additive manufacturing technology has the ability to manufacture large-scale parts at a high deposition rate. However, the quality of the obtained parts is greatly affected by the various thermal phenomena present during the manufacturing process. Numerical simulation remains an effective tool for studying such phenomena. In this work, a new finite element technique is proposed in order to model metal deposition in WAAM process. This technique allows to gradually construct the mesh representing the deposited regions along the deposition path. The heat source model proposed by Goldak is adapted and combined with the proposed metal deposition technique taking into account the energy distribution between filler material and the molten pool. The effectiveness of the proposed method is validated by series of experiments, of which an example is detailed in this paper.
Topology Optimization Design of Internal Reinforcements in a Sailing Dinghy
Authors: Mancuso Antonio , Saporito Antonio , Tumino Davide
Published: April 2021

In this paper, a novel approach has been followed based on FEM simulation and Topology Optimization tools to locate and model the reinforcements inside the hull of a sailing dinghy. This process assumes that the inner volume included between the hull and the deck is, at the beginning of the simulation, filled with material; then a portion of this inner volume is eroded until a final free form shape of the reinforcements is obtained. A key point of this procedure is the definition of the optimization constrains because the final shape of the reinforcements must fulfill several requirements such as weight, stiffness and stress. At the end of the optimization procedure, the final shape of internal reinforcements consists of a truss-like web frame with a final weight equal to the 18% of the initial full body.
State of the Art on Robust Design Methods for Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Malyani Youssef , Orquéra Myriam , Millet Dominique
Published: April 2021

Additive Manufacturing (AM) technologies allow to produce functional parts with complex geometries that cannot be manufactured by conventional processes. However, the complexity of the product is increased and causes new constraints in the manufacturing process. Therefore, these new processes lead particularly to new needs in design methods. The objective of this paper is to explore and form an overall view of design methods, especially, robust design (RD) methods. Robust design is defined here as a methodology that enables to design a product with optimal performances and insensitivity to small variations of the inputs of the manufacturing process. In this contribution a state of the art of robust design methods applied to AM will be carried out.
Topological Optimization of a Mechanical System with Adaptive Convergence Criterion
Authors: Orquera Myriam , Campocasso Sébastien , Millet Dominique
Published: April 2021

Topological optimization (TO) is commonly used to design a part for additive manufacturing (AM), but rarely for entire systems including several parts. How can be optimized a mechanical system in which each optimized part changes the boundary conditions? A Design method called TOMS (Topological Optimization of a Mechanical System) has been developed to take into account the variation of the boundary conditions when optimizing parts. When the using TOMS method the loops are performed until the optimization converges. The object of this article is to propose a discussion on the quantification of this convergence based on a practical case study.
Review of Product Design and Manufacturing Methods for Prosumers
Authors: Asión-Suñer L. , López-Forniés I.
Published: April 2021

Product design is a process developed by specialized profiles such as designers or engineers. For this reason, most of product design and/or manufacturing methods developed are aimed at experienced professionals. However, in the current social and technological context, we observe that the number ofprosumers, users who partially produce the products they consume, is increasing. These users are involved in design, manufacturing or assembly phases of the product to obtain final results that respond to specific needs and desires. Given this emerging trend, we wonder if there are methodologies focused on these users in particular, both in the academic field and in practice. This work aims to clarify this issue through a review of research papers and real cases. The results obtained differentiate between the methodologies that have been defined in the academic field and those that have not been compiled but whose repeated use has agreed its application and existence in practice. The methodologies identified are analyzed in two tables that summarize how they are applied and what their main objective is. The results and conclusions offer both the scientific community and the prosumers a series of product design and manufacturing methods focused on non-specialized profiles.
Methodology of Product Sustainable Redesign. Case Study: Furniture of a Clothing Retail Store
Authors: Muñoz López Natalia , Santolaya Sáenz José Luis , Biedermann Anna
Published: April 2021

Companies awareness of the impact generated by its products increases and motivates them to develop initiatives to improve their sustainability. In this work, a methodology consisting of three main phases: sustainability assessment, redesign process and comparison of designs, is proposed to obtain more sustainable product designs. Methodology is based on the Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA) approach, which is applied to simultaneously evaluate environmental, economic and social aspects. In the case study the sustainability improvement of the furniture of a clothing retail store is addressed. A set of indicators are considered to evaluate the sustainability performance of both initial design and redesign. The study concludes that the application of different sustainability strategies allows a significant enhancement of the environmental and economic indicators.
Process Parameters Effect on Weld Beads Geometry Deposited by Wire and Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM)
Authors: Manokruang Supasit , Vignat Frederic , Museau Matthieu , Limousin Maxime
Published: April 2021

Among Additive Manufacturing technologies, Wire and Arc Additive Manufacturing process is strongly dependent of deposition conditions such as welding parameters, substrate temperature, trajectory. In this research, geometry and temperature evolutions of single beads have been investigated according to process parameters modifications. For our experiment, a heating device have been used in order to control the substrate temperature from room temperature up to 400 °C. Considering the Cold Metal Transfer technology, welding parameters, Wire Feed Speed (WFS) and Travel Speed (TS), have been modified while keeping a constant ratio λ (WFS/TS). Results indicate that weld bead geometry, height (h) and width (w), is influenced by substrate temperature and welding parameters. It has been shown that substrate temperature, itself influenced by process parameters, tends to produce thicker and lower weld beads while it increases.
A Novel Procedure to Design a Positionable and Stable Drilling Template for Spine Surgery
Authors: Cappetti Nicola , Brancaccio Carmen , De Sio Francesca , Fontana Carlotta
Published: April 2021

Spine surgery is based, nowadays, on the use of cutting-edge instruments that optimize the intervention processes in the operating room, with advantages that affect the patient himself. Among these, rapid prototyping is configured as a first-rate tool, thanks to its ability to detail the diagnostic treatment according to the specific pathological case under examination. An example of this technology is represented by the generation of a drilling template, to assist the surgeon in identifying the optimal direction of insertion of the pedicle screws, capable of significantly reduce intervention times, in addition to the inevitable exposure of the patient to ionizing radiation, to which he is subjected during a normal arthrodesis intervention procedure. The design of a drilling guide requires, however, a particular attention in identifying the undercuts present on the vertebral surface, those areas of the spinous process which, reported inside the cavity of the template, involve complications at the time of extraction. In parallel, it is vitally important to carry out an evaluation of its stability during its use. In this article, starting from the analysis of the interferences present during the insertion of the template, a semi-automatic correction model is proposed for the generation of a new profile of the same, which facilitates its extraction without causing injury to the vertebral regions involved from the contact with the mask.
A Framework for Curvature-Based CAD Mesh Partitioning
Authors: Qie Yifan , Qiao Lihong , Anwer Nabil
Published: April 2021

In ISO Geometrical Product Specifications and Verification Standards (GPS) [1], partition is one of the fundamental operations used to obtain ideal or non-ideal features of a product. The operation of partition produces independent geometrical features by decomposing the object. A curvature-based CAD mesh partitioning framework is proposed in this paper. The framework combines several key steps including curvature-based attribute calculation, local shape type refinement, region growing, slippage analysis and statistical modeling. The partitioned features are classified into seven invariance classes of surface in the context of ISO GPS. A case study shows that not only appropriate partitioning but also accurate invariance class recognition for GPS are achieved by the proposed framework.
Modeling Symmetric Minimal Surfaces by Mesh Subdivision
Authors: Rosso Stefano , Curtarello Andrea , Basana Federico , Grigolato Luca , Meneghello Roberto , Concheri Gianmaria , Savio Gianpaolo
Published: April 2021

Thanks to the great diffusion of additive manufacturing technologies, the interest in lattice structures is growing. Among them, minimal surfaces are characterized by zero mean curvature, allowing enhanced properties such as mechanical response and fluidynamic behavior. Recent works showed a method for geometric modeling triply periodic minimal surfaces (TPMS) based on subdivision surface. In this paper, the deviation between the subdivided TPMS and the implicit defined ones is investigated together with mechanical properties computed by numerical methods. As a result, a model of mechanical properties as a function of the TPMS thickness and relative density is proposed.
A Fast and Reliable Optical 3D Scanning System for Human Arm
Authors: Buonamici Francesco , Carfagni Monica , Puggelli Luca , Servi Michaela , Volpe Yary
Published: April 2021

The article discusses the design of an acquisition system for the 3D surface of human arms. The system is composed by a 3D optical scanner implementing stereoscopic depth sensors and by an acquisition software responsible for the processing of the raw data. The 3D data acquired by the scanner is used as starting point for the manufacturing of custom-made 3D printed casts. Specifically, the article discusses the choices made in the development of an improved version of an existing system presented in [1] and presents the results achieved by the devised system.
Design and Optimization of a Photovoltaic Canopy for an Electric Vehicle Charging Station in Urban Environments
Authors: Parras-Burgos Dolores , Melgarejo-Teruel Jesús , Mateo-Aroca Antonio , Fernández-Pacheco Daniel G. , Cañavate Francisco J. F. , Sáez-Gutiérrez Francisco L.
Published: April 2021

Nowadays, the use of renewable energies and electric vehicles has become particularly relevant in order to lower the high pollution levels surrounding our cities. The design of a photovoltaic canopy for charging electric vehicles is a highly promising combination that can be set up in urban areas. To favour installing them in different places, this communication provides details of the technico-functional aspects that have been considered to design and fit them, along with other aesthetic and user-centred aspects that help stimulate our society to use such infrastructures.
Develop Model for Controlled Depth Milling by Abrasive Water Jet of Ti6Al4V at Jet Inclination Angle
Authors: Bui Van-Hung , Gilles Patrick , Cohen Guillaume , Rubio Walter
Published: April 2021

Abrasive water jet machining (AWJM) is an interesting solution for the production of shallow pockets in metal sheets made of titanium alloys. Indeed, it produces low cutting forces and heat generation and prevents deformation of these parts after machining. In addition, it has the advantage of only using two raw materials: sand and water. It is possible to generate pocket edges with an imposed geometry using AWJM, but it is necessary to tilt the axis of the jet. The material removal mechanism is then a function of the inclination angle. The presented study propose an improved model for modelling the pocket profile in TiAl6V parts. The experimental results shows that the model is efficient as the precision is around 5%.
Digitization of Operational Processes: Use Case of Standardization in an Assembly Learning Factory
Authors: Magnani Florian
Published: April 2021

The objective of this research is to set the ground for new research to measure the impact of Industry 4.0, by combining two types of analysis, that of the performance, and that of the human behaviors, using experiments with digital instruments. A preliminary test, then a first experiment focusing on standardization of operational processes are presented showing promising results to understand how operational and human performance are impacted by the Industry 4.0. This study serves as a first step to a larger research project about productivity measurement of Industry 4.0 transformation.
Essential Issues to Consider for a Manufacturing Data Query System Based on Graph
Authors: Kim Lise , Yahia Esma , Segonds Frédéric , Veron Philippe , Fau Victor
Published: April 2021

Manufacturing industry data are distributed, heterogeneous and numerous, resulting in different challenges including the fast, exhaustive and relevant querying of data. In order to provide an innovative answer to this challenge, the authors consider an information retrieval system based on a graph database. In this paper, the authors focus on determining the essential functions to consider in this context. The authors define a three-step methodology using root causes analysis and resolution. This methodology is then applied to a data set and queries representative of an industrial use case. As a result, the authors list four major issues to consider and discuss their potential resolutions.
Education in Circular Economy: Focusing on Life Cycle Thinking at the University of the Basque Country
Authors: Minguez Rikardo , Lizundia Erlantz , Iturrondobeitia Maider , Akizu-Gardoki Ortzi , Saez-de-Camara Estibaliz
Published: April 2021

Since 2002, the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) has supported several teaching experiences related to the so-called Life Cycle Thinking or Ecodesign in collaboration with local Institutions. The kick off was the Ecodesign Learning Center aiming to promote environmental education at the Faculty of Engineering in Bilbao. In this framework, the last effort has been the implementation of a Master’s Degree entitled Circular Economy: Business Application. This course has been successfully implemented in the 2019–2020 academic year and has been specifically designed to provide training in circular economy for people with backgrounds as varied as product manufacturing engineering, environmental engineering or economics. These studies are aimed to become a European reference in its goal of promoting circular economy, life cycle thinking, ecodesign and sustainable development. This paper analyzes the learning issues and characteristics of this Master's degree placing a special emphasis on its novel competencies and learning outcomes for our society. It can be concluded that the Master's degree is a pioneering teaching experience, being the forefront of Circular Economy Education in Southwestern Europe.
Simulation and Experimental Validation of Secondary Dendrite Arm Spacing for AlSi7Mg0.3 Chassis Parts in Low Pressure Die Casting
Authors: Vergnano Alberto , Bergamini Umberto , Bianchi Daniele , Veronesi Paolo , Spagnolo Roberto , Leali Francesco
Published: April 2021

The structural properties of cast aluminum parts are strongly affected by the solidification in the production process. The solidification dynamics determines the Secondary Dendrite Arm Spacing (SDAS), directly affecting the structural strength of the alloy. Simulation techniques enable the integrated design of chassis parts and their production equipment. However, in order to effectively predict the SDAS formation, the simulation models need to be investigated and calibrated. The present research investigates the SDAS formation models and identifies a robust relation to be used in Design by Simulation phases for AlSi7Mg0.3 parts.
Initial Proposal for a General Systems Engineering Methodology to Early Design Phase Cost/Value Estimation
Authors: Wilson John , Alix Thècle , Gruhier Elise , Maranzana Nicolas , Perry Nicolas , Magnin Gérard , Parrod Nicolas , Servonnat Rémy , Tuery Julien
Published: April 2021

We propose that a systems engineering methodology may be applied in an effective interactive design environment for lifecycle cost estimation and value optimization in the context of a manufacturing enterprise. In order to optimize a product design for value, engineering and manufacturing businesses need to be able to estimate accurately product lifecycle costs during the early design phases of its development, because this is when the majority of these costs are determined. Systems engineering defines realizing value as meeting stakeholder requirements and emphasizes formalizing these in order to link coherently the individual estimated costs of a design to the needs it fulfils. Furthermore, formalized requirement and design parameters are suitable for modelling and simulation, and we envision a systems model implemented within existing knowledge-based engineering tools embedded in a design environment. The results of this model may support design decisions, as well as reinforce systems engineering analyses in evaluating processes for value chain simulations.
Industry 4.0 and BIM: Do They Share the Same Objectives?
Authors: Joblot Laurent , Danjou Christophe , Pellerin Robert , Lamouri Samir
Published: April 2021

In recent years, many changes have been taking place within the construction sector which is much more prone to innovate than in the past. New forms of processes are emerging with the introduction of digital technologies. This article aims to shed light on recent scientific advances that link Industry 4.0 to this sector. To this end, a review of articles published over the past 10 years reporting experiences and gains from 4.0 technologies applied to construction was conducted. It turns out that recent technological developments have brought new functionalities and new perspectives to companies. Some of these were not initially claimed with the sole deployment of a BIM approach. These new opportunities have ultimately raised questions as to whether and how they could impact the speed at which a digital transformation of the sector could take place.
Global symmetry, Euclidean gravity, and the black hole information problem
Authors: Harlow Daniel , Shaghoulian Edgar
Published: April 2021

Abstract

In this paper we argue for a close connection between the non-existence of global symmetries in quantum gravity and a unitary resolution of the black hole information problem. In particular we show how the essential ingredients of recent calculations of the Page curve of an evaporating black hole can be used to generalize a recent argument against global symmetries beyond the AdS/CFT correspondence to more realistic theories of quantum gravity. We also give several low-dimensional examples of quantum gravity theories which do not have a unitary resolution of the black hole information problem in the usual sense, and which therefore can and do have global symmetries. Motivated by this discussion, we conjecture that in a certain sense Euclidean quantum gravity is equivalent to holography.
$$ T\overline{T} $$-like flows in non-linear electrodynamic theories and S-duality
Authors: Babaei-Aghbolagh H. , Velni Komeil Babaei , Yekta Davood Mahdavian , Mohammadzadeh H.
Published: April 2021

Abstract

We investigate the $$ T\overline{T} $$
T

T
¯

-like flows for non-linear electrodynamic theories in D(=2n)-dimensional spacetime. Our analysis is restricted to the deformation problem of the classical free action by employing the proposed $$ T\overline{T} $$
T

T
¯

operator from a simple integration technique. We show that this flow equation is compatible with $$ T\overline{T} $$
T

T
¯

deformation of a scalar field theory in D = 2 and of a non-linear Born-Infeld type theory in D = 4 dimensions. However, our computation discloses that this kind of $$ T\overline{T} $$
T

T
¯

flow in higher dimensions is essentially different from deformation that has been derived from the AdS/CFT interpretations. Indeed, the gravity that may be exist as a holographic dual theory of this kind of effective Born-Infeld action is not necessarily an AdS space. As an illustrative investigation in D = 4, we shall also show that our construction for the $$ T\overline{T} $$
T

T
¯

operator preserves the original SL(2, ℝ) symmetry of a non-supersymmetric Born-Infeld theory, as well as $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 supersymmetric model. It is shown that the corresponding SL(2, ℝ) invariant action fixes the relationship between the $$ T\overline{T} $$
T

T
¯

operator and quadratic form of the energy-momentum tensor in D = 4.
A worldsheet perspective on heterotic T-duality orbifolds
Authors: Nibbelink Stefan Groot
Published: April 2021

Abstract

Asymmetric heterotic orbifolds are discussed from the worldsheet perspective. Starting from Buscher’s gauging of a theory of D compact bosons the duality covariant description of Tseytlin is obtained after a non-Lorentz invariant gauge fixing. A left-over of the gauge symmetry can be used to removed the doubled constant zero modes so that D physical target space coordinate remain. This can be thought of as the worldsheet realization of the strong constraint of double field theory. The extension of this description to the heterotic theory is straightforward as all results are written in terms of the invariant and the generalized metrics. An explicit method is outline how to obtain a generalized metric which is invariant under T-duality orbifold actions. It is explicitly shown how shift orbifolds lead to redefinitions of the Narain moduli. Finally, a number of higher dimensional T-folds are constructed including a novel asymmetric ℤ6 orbifold.
Psychiatric hospital reform in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review of literature
Authors: Raja Tasneem , Tuomainen Helena , Madan Jason , Mistry Dipesh , Jain Sanjeev , Easwaran Kamala , Singh Swaran P.
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Psychiatric hospitals or mental asylums grew across the world in the colonial era. Despite concerns over quality of care and human rights violations, these hospitals continue to provide the majority of mental health care in most low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). We sought to review the evidence of reform of mental hospitals and associated patient outcomes.

Methods

We adopted an integrative review methodology by including experimental and non-experimental research. The review protocol was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42019130399). A range of databases and systematic hand searches were conducted by two independent reviewers. Research conducted between 1980 and May 2019, that focused on any aspect of reform in mental hospitals for adults (age 18 and upwards) with severe mental illness and published in English, were considered.

Results

16 studies were included in the review. 12 studies met inclusion criteria, and four additional reports emerged from the hand search. Studies covered—India, China, South Africa, Grenada, Georgia, Sri Lanka, Argentina and Brazil. Key findings emphasise the role of judicial intervention as a critical trigger of reform. Structural reform composed of optimisation of resources and renovations of colonial structures to cater to diverse patient needs. Process reforms include changes in medical management, admission processes and a move from closed to open wards. Staff engagement and capacity building have also been used as a modality of reform in mental hospital settings.

Conclusion

There is some documentation of reform in psychiatric hospitals. However, poor methodological quality and variation in approach and outcomes measured, make it challenging to extrapolate specific findings on process or outcomes of reform. Despite being integral service providers, psychiatric hospitals still do not adopt patient centric, recovery-oriented processes. Hence, there is an urgent need to generate robust evidence on psychiatric reform and its effect on patient outcomes.
Numerical optimisation of a micro-wave rotor turbine using a quasi-two-dimensional CFD model and a hybrid algorithm
Authors: Tüchler S. , Copeland C. D.
Published: April 2021

Wave rotors are unsteady flow machines that exchange energy through pressure waves. This has the potential for enhancing efficiency over a wide spectrum of applications, ranging from gas turbine topping cycles to pressure-gain combustors. This paper introduces an aerodynamic shape optimisation of a power generating non-axial micro-wave rotor turbine and seeks to enhance the shaft power output while preserving the wave rotor’s capacity to function as a pressure-exchanging device. The optimisation considers six parameters including rotor shape profile, wall thickness, and number of channels and is done using a hybrid genetic algorithm that couples an evolutionary algorithm with a surrogate model. The underlying numerical model is based on a transient, reduced-order, quasi-two dimensional computational fluid dynamics model at a fixed operating condition. The numerical results from the quasi-two-dimensional optimisation indicate that the best candidate design increases shaft power by a factor of 1.78 and imply a trade-off relationship between torque generation and pressure exchange capabilities. Further evaluation of the optimised design using three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics simulations confirms the increase in power output at the cost of increased entropy production. It is further disclosed that increased incidence losses during the initial opening of the channel to the high-pressure inlet duct compromise the shock strength of the primary shock wave and account for the decrease in pressure ratio. Finally, the numerical trends are validated using experimental data.
Identification and quantification of dicarboxylic fatty acids in head tissue of farmed Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)
Authors: Lehnert Katja , Rashid Mamun M. , Barman Benoy Kumar , Vetter Walter
Published: April 2021

Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) was grown in Bangladesh with four different feeding treatments as part of a project that aims to produce fish in a cost-effective way for low-income consumers in developing countries. Fillet and head tissue was analysed because both tissues were destined for human consumption. Gas chromatography with mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analyses of transesterified fatty acid methyl ester extracts indicated the presence of ~ 50 fatty acids. Major fatty acids in fillet and head tissue were palmitic acid and oleic acid. Both linoleic acid and polyunsaturated fatty acids with three or more double bonds were presented in quantities > 10% of total fatty acids in fillet, but lower in head tissue. Erucic acid levels were below the newly proposed tolerable daily intake in the European Union, based on the consumption of 200 g fillet per day. Moreover, further analysis produced evidence for the presence of the dicarboxylic fatty acid azelaic acid (nonanedioic acid, Di9:0) in head tissue. To verify this uncommon finding, countercurrent chromatography was used to isolate Di9:0 and other dicarboxylic acids from a technical standard followed by its quantification. Di9:0 contributed to 0.4–1.3% of the fatty acid profile in head tissue, but was not detected in fillet. Fish fed with increasing quantities of flaxseed indicated that linoleic acid was the likely precursor of Di9:0 in the head tissue samples.
Lie applicable surfaces and curved flats
Authors: Burstall Francis , Pember Mason
Published: April 2021

We investigate curved flats in Lie sphere geometry. We show that in this setting curved flats are in one-to-one correspondence with pairs of Demoulin families of Lie applicable surfaces related by Darboux transformation.
Reproducibility and accuracy of microscale thermophoresis in the NanoTemper Monolith: a multi laboratory benchmark study
Authors: López-Méndez Blanca , Baron Bruno , Brautigam Chad A. , Jowitt Thomas A. , Knauer Stefan H. , Uebel Stephan , Williams Mark A. , Sedivy Arthur , Abian Olga , Abreu Celeste , Adamczyk Malgorzata , Bal Wojciech , Berger Sylvie , Buell Alexander K. , Carolis Carlo , Daviter Tina , Fish Alexander , Garcia-Alai Maria , Guenther Christian , Hamacek Josef , Holková Jitka , Houser Josef , Johnson Chris , Kelly Sharon , Leech Andrew , Mas Caroline , Matulis Daumantas , McLaughlin Stephen H. , Montserret Roland , Nasreddine Rouba , Nehmé Reine , Nguyen Quyen , Ortega-Alarcón David , Perez Kathryn , Pirc Katja , Piszczek Grzegorz , Podobnik Marjetka , Rodrigo Natalia , Rokov-Plavec Jasmina , Schaefer Susanne , Sharpe Tim , Southall June , Staunton David , Tavares Pedro , Vanek Ondrej , Weyand Michael , Wu Di
Published: April 2021

Microscale thermophoresis (MST), and the closely related Temperature Related Intensity Change (TRIC), are synonyms for a recently developed measurement technique in the field of biophysics to quantify biomolecular interactions, using the (capillary-based) NanoTemper Monolith and (multiwell plate-based) Dianthus instruments. Although this technique has been extensively used within the scientific community due to its low sample consumption, ease of use, and ubiquitous applicability, MST/TRIC has not enjoyed the unambiguous acceptance from biophysicists afforded to other biophysical techniques like isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) or surface plasmon resonance (SPR). This might be attributed to several facts, e.g., that various (not fully understood) effects are contributing to the signal, that the technique is licensed to only a single instrument developer, NanoTemper Technology, and that its reliability and reproducibility have never been tested independently and systematically. Thus, a working group of ARBRE-MOBIEU has set up a benchmark study on MST/TRIC to assess this technique as a method to characterize biomolecular interactions. Here we present the results of this study involving 32 scientific groups within Europe and two groups from the US, carrying out experiments on 40 Monolith instruments, employing a standard operation procedure and centrally prepared samples. A protein–small molecule interaction, a newly developed protein–protein interaction system and a pure dye were used as test systems. We characterized the instrument properties and evaluated instrument performance, reproducibility, the effect of different analysis tools, the influence of the experimenter during data analysis, and thus the overall reliability of this method.
Triggers and oncologic outcome of salvage radical prostatectomy, salvage radiotherapy and active surveillance after focal therapy of prostate cancer
Authors: von Hardenberg Jost , Cash Hannes , Koch Daniel , Borkowetz Angelika , Bruendl Johannes , Leyh-Bannurah Sami-Ramzi , Kuru Timur H. , Kowalewski Karl-Friedrich , Schindele Daniel , Mala Katharina S. , Westhoff Niklas , Blana Andreas , Schostak Martin ,   Working Group of Focal and Microtherapy of the German Society of Urology (DGU)
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Due to the tissue preserving approach of focal therapy (FT), local cancer relapse can occur. Uncertainty exists regarding triggers and outcome of salvage strategies.

Methods

Patients with biopsy-proven prostate cancer (PCa) after FT for localized PCa from 2011 to 2020 at eight tertiary referral hospitals in Germany that underwent salvage radical prostatectomy (S-RP), salvage radiotherapy (S-RT) or active surveillance (AS) were reported. Prostate specific antigen (PSA) changes, suspicious lesions on mpMRI and histopathological findings on biopsy were analyzed. A multivariable regression model was created for adverse pathological findings (APF) at S-RP specimen. Kaplan–Meier curves were generated to determine oncological outcomes.

Results

A total of 90 men were included. Cancer relapse after FT was detected at a median of 12 months (IQR 9–16). Of 50 men initially under AS 13 received S-RP or S-RT. In total, 44 men underwent S-RP and 13 S-RT. At cancer relapse 17 men (38.6%) in the S-RP group [S-RT n = 4 (30.8%); AS n = 3 (6%)] had ISUP > 2. APF (pT ≥ 3, ISUP ≥ 3, pN + or R1) were observed in 23 men (52.3%). A higher ISUP on biopsy was associated with APF [p = 0.006 (HR 2.32, 97.5% CI 1.35–4.59)] on univariable analysis. Progression-free survival was 80.4% after S-RP and 100% after S-RT at 3 years. Secondary therapy-free survival was 41.7% at 3 years in men undergoing AS. Metastasis-free survival was 80% at 5 years for the whole cohort.

Conclusion

With early detection of cancer relapse after FT S-RP and S-RT provide sufficient oncologic control at short to intermediate follow-up. After AS, a high secondary-therapy rate was observed.
Einfluss des COVID-19-Shutdowns auf die Arbeitsleistung einer Universitäts-Augenpoliklinik
Authors: Framme C. , Gottschling J. , Buley P. , Rohwer-Mensching K. , Junker B. , Dittberner M. , Volkmann I.
Published: April 2021

Hintergrund

Die Coronaviruserkrankung COVID-19 hat im Frühjahr 2020 zu einer deutlichen Minderleistung der elektiven Medizin in den Krankenhäusern geführt, wobei es für universitäre Polikliniken bisher keine entsprechenden Daten über das Ausmaß dieser Reduktion und die damit verbundenen Erlösminderungen gibt.

Material und Methode

Mithilfe der Daten des aus dem Krankenhausinformationssystems (IS-H/i.s.h.med unter SAP, Cerner Corporation, North Kansas City, MO, Vereinigte Staaten von Amerika und SAP SE, Walldorf, Deutschland) und der an unserer Klinik mitentwickelten Zeiterfassungs- und Managementsoftware TimeElement (Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Hannover, Deutschland) wurden alle Patientenkontakte des COVID-19-Shutdowns über ca. 7 Wochen vom 18.03.2020 bis zum 08.05.2020 evaluiert und mit dem Vorjahreszeitraum 2019 verglichen. Zudem wurden die Fallzahlen für das erste und zweite Quartal 2019 und 2020 in Relation gesetzt.

Ergebnisse

Im COVID-19-Zeitraum reduzierte sich die Gesamtzahl der Patientenkontakte um 59,5 % gegenüber dem Vorjahr. Die Anzahl der abrechenbaren Fälle reduzierte sich um 74,8 %.

Insbesondere der Hochschulambulanz‑/Selbstzahlerbereich verzeichnete mit einer Reduktion der Patientenkontakte auf 17,2 % des Ausgangswertes von 2019 den größten Patientenwegfall. Aus der reduzierten Arbeitsleistung resultierte ein Erlösverlust von mindestens 218.000 €. Über TimeElement ergab sich ein Rückgang aller diagnostischen Spezialleistungen von 69,4 %, wobei gerade auch Gesichtsfelduntersuchungen um ca. 75,3 % reduziert waren. OCT-Messungen verzeichneten einen Rückgang um 60,3 %. Das Patiententracking ergab allerdings auch eine Reduktion der durchschnittlichen Anwesenheitszeiten der Patienten um ca. 23 % (COVID-19: 145,8 ± 88,8 min vs. 2019: 189,6 ± 97,2 min).

Diskussion

Der COVID-19-Shutdown ließ die Arbeitsleistung unserer Poliklinik auf nur noch ca. 40 % der Patientenkontakte und die der funktionsdiagnostischen Untersuchungen auf nur noch ca. 30 %, verglichen zur Leistung aus dem Jahr 2019, einbrechen. Die Reduktion der Patientenzahl führte allerdings auch dazu, dass die Anwesenheitszeiten der Patienten deutlich geringer als bei regulärer Auslastung ausfielen. Die damit verbundenen finanziellen Verluste sind durchaus erheblich und offensichtlich nicht über gesetzlich geregelte Ausgleichszahlungen wie im stationären Bereich kompensiert.
Erratum to: Expectations of nursing personnel and physicians on dementia training
Authors: Schneider Julia , Gkioka Mara , Papagiannopoulos Sotirios , Moraitou Despina , Metz Brigitte , Tsolaki Magdalini , Kruse Andreas , Teichmann Birgit
Published: April 2021

An Erratum to this paper has been published: 10.1007/s00391-019-01625-0
TREM2 expression in the brain and biological fluids in prion diseases
Authors: Diaz-Lucena Daniela , Kruse Niels , Thüne Katrin , Schmitz Matthias , Villar-Piqué Anna , da Cunha Jose Eriton Gomes , Hermann Peter , López-Pérez Óscar , Andrés-Benito Pol , Ladogana Anna , Calero Miguel , Vidal Enric , Riggert Joachim , Pineau Hailey , Sim Valerie , Zetterberg Henrik , Blennow Kaj , del Río Jose Antonio , Marín-Moreno Alba , Espinosa Juan Carlos , Torres Juan María , Sánchez-Valle Raquel , Mollenhauer Brit , Ferrer Isidre , Zerr Inga , Llorens Franc
Published: April 2021

Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 (TREM2) is an innate immune cell surface receptor that regulates microglial function and is involved in the pathophysiology of several neurodegenerative diseases. Its soluble form (sTREM2) results from shedding of the TREM2 ectodomain. The role of TREM2 in prion diseases, a group of rapidly progressive dementias remains to be elucidated. In the present study, we analysed the expression of TREM2 and its main sheddase ADAM10 in the brain of sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (sCJD) patients and evaluated the role of CSF and plasma sTREM2 as a potential diagnostic marker of prion disease. Our data indicate that, compared to controls, TREM2 is increased in sCJD patient brains at the mRNA and protein levels in a regional and subtype dependent fashion, and expressed in a subpopulation of microglia. In contrast, ADAM10 is increased at the protein, but not the mRNA level, with a restricted neuronal expression. Elevated CSF sTREM2 is found in sCJD, genetic CJD with mutations E200K and V210I in the prion protein gene (PRNP), and iatrogenic CJD, as compared to healthy controls (HC) (AUC = 0.78–0.90) and neurological controls (AUC = 0.73–0.85), while CSF sTREM2 is unchanged in fatal familial insomnia. sTREM2 in the CSF of cases with Alzheimer’s disease, and multiple sclerosis was not significantly altered in our series. CSF sTREM2 concentrations in sCJD are PRNP codon 129 and subtype-related, correlate with CSF 14-3-3 positivity, total-tau and YKL-40, and increase with disease progression. In plasma, sTREM2 is increased in sCJD compared with HC (AUC = 0.80), displaying positive correlations with plasma total-tau, neurofilament light, and YKL-40. We conclude that comparative study of TREM2 in brain and biological fluids of prion diseases reveals TREM2 to be altered in human prion diseases with a potential value in target engagement, patient stratification, and disease monitoring.
Aminopeptidase A contributes to biochemical, anatomical and cognitive defects in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) mouse model and is increased at early stage in sporadic AD brain
Authors: Valverde Audrey , Dunys Julie , Lorivel Thomas , Debayle Delphine , Gay Anne-Sophie , Lacas-Gervais Sandra , Roques Bernard. P. , Chami Mounia , Checler Frédéric
Published: April 2021

One of the main components of senile plaques in Alzheimer’s disease (AD)-affected brain is the Aβ peptide species harboring a pyroglutamate at position three pE3-Aβ. Several studies indicated that pE3-Aβ is toxic, prone to aggregation and serves as a seed of Aβ aggregation. The cyclisation of the glutamate residue is produced by glutaminyl cyclase, the pharmacological and genetic reductions of which significantly alleviate AD-related anatomical lesions and cognitive defects in mice models. The cyclisation of the glutamate in position 3 requires prior removal of the Aβ N-terminal aspartyl residue to allow subsequent biotransformation. The enzyme responsible for this rate-limiting catalytic step and its relevance as a putative trigger of AD pathology remained yet to be established. Here, we identify aminopeptidase A as the main exopeptidase involved in the N-terminal truncation of Aβ and document its key contribution to AD-related anatomical and behavioral defects. First, we show by mass spectrometry that human recombinant aminopeptidase A (APA) truncates synthetic Aβ1-40 to yield Aβ2-40. We demonstrate that the pharmacological blockade of APA with its selective inhibitor RB150 restores the density of mature spines and significantly reduced filopodia-like processes in hippocampal organotypic slices cultures virally transduced with the Swedish mutated Aβ-precursor protein (βAPP). Pharmacological reduction of APA activity and lowering of its expression by shRNA affect pE3-42Aβ- and Aβ1-42-positive plaques and expressions in 3xTg-AD mice brains. Further, we show that both APA inhibitors and shRNA partly alleviate learning and memory deficits observed in 3xTg-AD mice. Importantly, we demonstrate that, concomitantly to the occurrence of pE3-42Aβ-positive plaques, APA activity is augmented at early Braak stages in sporadic AD brains. Overall, our data indicate that APA is a key enzyme involved in Aβ N-terminal truncation and suggest the potential benefit of targeting this proteolytic activity to interfere with AD pathology.