bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Specific Neuroligin3–αNeurexin1 signaling regulates GABAergic synaptic function in mouse hippocampus
Authors: Uchigashima Motokazu , Konno Kohtarou , Demchak Emily , Cheung Amy , Watanabe Takuya , Keener David G , Abe Manabu , Le Timmy , Sakimura Kenji , Sasaoka Toshikuni , Uemura Takeshi , Imamura Kawasawa Yuka , Watanabe Masahiko , Futai Kensuke
Published: December 2020

Synapse formation and regulation require signaling interactions between pre- and postsynaptic proteins, notably cell adhesion molecules (CAMs). It has been proposed that the functions of neuroligins (Nlgns), postsynaptic CAMs, rely on the formation of trans-synaptic complexes with neurexins (Nrxns), presynaptic CAMs. Nlgn3 is a unique Nlgn isoform that localizes at both excitatory and inhibitory synapses. However, Nlgn3 function mediated via Nrxn interactions is unknown. Here we demonstrate that Nlgn3 localizes at postsynaptic sites apposing vesicular glutamate transporter 3-expressing (VGT3+) inhibitory terminals and regulates VGT3+ inhibitory interneuron-mediated synaptic transmission in mouse organotypic slice cultures. Gene expression analysis of interneurons revealed that the αNrxn1+AS4 splice isoform is highly expressed in VGT3+ interneurons as compared with other interneurons. Most importantly, postsynaptic Nlgn3 requires presynaptic αNrxn1+AS4 expressed in VGT3+ interneurons to regulate inhibitory synaptic transmission. Our results indicate that specific Nlgn–Nrxn signaling generates distinct functional properties at synapses.
Supplying the sleeping brain
Authors: Williams Stephanie D , Lewis Laura D
Published: December 2020

During sleep, the brain experiences large fluctuations in blood volume and altered coupling between neural and vascular signals.
Estimates of Cetacean Abundance in the North Atlantic of Relevance to NAMMCO
Authors: NAMMCO
Published: December 2020

The best available abundance estimates for cetacean species in areas of relevance to the work of NAMMCO since 1986 are presented and the references to the original sources is provided.
Å støtte kreativitet
Authors: Olafsson Brynjar
Published: December 2020

Denne artikkelen fokuserer på hva som kan støtte eller hindre lærere i kunst og håndverk i å fokusere på kreativitet i undervisningen. De siste årene har det vært rettet mer oppmerksomhet mot utvikling av barns kreative egenskaper i grunnskolen. Læreplanen i kunst og håndverksfaget legger større vekt på kreativitet enn andre fag. Resultatene fra åtte intervjuer viser at respondentene mener at faktorer som fagkunnskap, økonomi, ledelse og tid kan hemme lærere i å legge vekt på kreativitet i kunst og håndverk. Respondentene mente imidlertid at læreplanen var støttende ettersom den var åpen og fleksibel. De var også bevisste på at deres egen kreativitet påvirket elevenes arbeid. De fleste respondenter fant videre utfordringer i definisjonen av og arbeidet med å vurdere kreativitet. Resultatene viser at det er nødvendig å støtte både indre og ytre faktorer for undervisningen for å kunne oppfylle læreplanens mål om å utvikle elevers kreativitet.
Intrathyroid Parathyroid Adenomas-Uncommon Tumours at Unusual Sites: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Chandramohan Jagan , Sigamani Elanthenral , Abraham Deepak Thomas , Jacob Paul Mazhuvanchary , Cherian Anish Jacob , Chandramohan Anuradha , Mani Thenmozhi , Manipadam Marie Therese
Published: December 2020

Introduction: Ectopic Intrathyroid Parathyroid Adenomas (ITPAs) are rare and known to pose preoperative and intraoperative diagnostic challenges in localisation, resulting in failure of parathyroid surgery. The common histopathological features of these tumours are not elaborately described in literature. Aim: To describe the clinico-pathological features of ITPAs, identified among all parathyroid adenomas, diagnosed at a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of all ITPAs diagnosed between January 2012 to December 2019, at Christian Medical College and Hospital, Vellore, Tamil Nadu. The gross examination and microscopic findings of ITPAs were reviewed and tabulated. Clinical, radiological and intraoperative findings were compiled to obtain preoperative and intraoperative diagnostic rates. Results: Among 409 parathyroid adenomas, there were ten ITPAs (2.4%), with eight ectopic inferior (80%) and two ectopic superior parathyroids (20%). Four ITPAs were completely intrathyroid (0.97%). Histopathological features of ITPAs were those of usual parathyroid adenomas. Four patients (40%) had concomitant thyroid disease, including one papillary micro-carcinoma (10%). Correct preoperative diagnostic rate was 40%. Intraoperative misjudgment of location occurred in two patients (20%). Conclusion: ITPAs are rare and correct preoperative and intraoperative diagnosis may not be always possible. Histopathological evaluation of suspicious intrathyroid nodules is necessary in such instances to correctly diagnose them.
Pesticides
Authors: Rubino Federico Maria , Mandić‐Rajčević Stefan , Colosio Claudio
Published: December 2020

Pesticides are substances or mixtures used to control living organisms that damage crops or goods, transmit or cause diseases and other unwanted events, such as the uncontrolled expansion of endogenous living species, or infestation by non‐native ones. Unwanted living organisms include animals, such as insects and rodents, invading plants, such as weeds and ornamental flowers, shrubs and trees, microorganisms and viruses that cause transmittable diseases to plants, animals, and humans.
NKG2D and MICA/B shedding: a ‘tag game’ between NK cells and malignant cells
Authors: Xing Samantha , Ferrari de Andrade Lucas
Published: December 2020

Natural killer (NK) cells are innate lymphocytes with cytotoxic functions and recognise target cells with the NK group 2D (NKG2D) receptor. Tumor cells are marked for NK‐cell‐mediated destruction upon expression of MICA and MICB (MICA/B), which are NKG2D ligands upregulated by many human cancers in response to cellular stress pathways associated with malignant transformation such as DNA damage and accumulation of misfolded proteins. However, MICA/B proteins are downregulated by tumor cells via intriguing molecular mechanisms, such as post‐translational modifications in which the external domains of MICA/B are proteolytically cleaved by surface proteases and shed into the extracellular space. MICA/B shedding by cancer cells causes effective escape from NKG2D recognition and allows the development of cancers. Patients frequently have increased concentrations of soluble MICA/B molecules shed in the blood plasmas and sera, thus indicating that MICA/B shedding is a therapeutic target in immune‐oncology. Here, we review the clinical significance of MICA/B shedding in cancer as well as novel immunotherapeutic approaches that aim to restore NKG2D‐mediated surveillance. We also briefly discuss potential roles of MICA/B shedding beyond oncology, such as in viral infections and immune tolerance. This review will help to inform the future developments of NKG2D‐based immunotherapies.
Bring your campus together through service work, holistic learning experiences
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: December 2020

“I'm a California native,” Elizabeth Abrams, Provost of Merrill College at the University of California, Santa Cruz, said. “And [growing up] I could not wait to leave California.” Abrams traveled the world, eventually settling at Harvard University and teaching expository writing. There, Abrams was involved in Writing Across Curricula, skills and experience she would bring to UCSC when she moved back to California in 2000.
Icaritin inhibits PD‐L1 expression by Targeting Protein IκB Kinase α
Authors: Mo Dongliang , Zhu Hai , Wang Jun , Hao Haibang , Guo Yuming , Wang Jiaojiao , Han Xu , Zou Liangfeng , Li Zhongwan , Yao Hua , Zhu Jinsong , Zhou Junma , Peng Yong , Li Jian , Meng Kun
Published: December 2020

Icaritin, a small molecule currently being investigated in phase III clinical trials in China (NCT03236636 and NCT03236649) for treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is a prenylflavonoid derivative obtained from the Epimedium genus. Previously, it was found that Icaritin decreased the expression of PD‐L1, but its direct molecular targets and the underlying mechanisms have not been identified. In this study, we report the identification of IKK‐α as the protein target of Icaritin by biotin‐based affinity binding assay. The further mutagenesis assay has provided evidence that C46 and C178 in IKK‐α were essential amino acids for Icaritin binding to IKK‐α, revealing the binding sites of Icaritin to IKK‐α for the first time. Functionally, Icaritin inhibited the NF‐κB signalling pathway by blocking IKK complex formation, which led to decreased nuclear translocation of NF‐κB p65, and subsequent downregulation of PD‐L1 expression in a dose–dependent manner. More importantly, PD‐L1‐positive patients exhibited longer overall survival upon Icaritin therapy. Finally, Icaritin in combination with checkpoints antibodies, such as α‐PD‐1, has demonstrated much better efficacy than any single therapy in animal models. This is the first report that anticancer effects of Icaritin are mediated, at least in part, by impairing functions of IKK‐α.
In vitro dry matter and crude protein rumen degradation and abomasal digestibility of soybean meal treated with chestnut and quebracho wood extracts
Authors: Lavrenčič Andrej , Levart Alenka
Published: December 2020

The effects of commercial chestnut (CWE) and quebracho (QUE) extract at different inclusion levels to soybean meal (SBM) on the in vitro degradability and digestibility of dry matter (DM) and crude protein (CP) were evaluated. Samples were prepared by mixing 0 (CON), 15, 30, and 60 g/kg of CWE and QUE with SBM, soaked in water overnight at room temperature, dried, and ground. Samples were incubated in duplicate in buffered rumen fluid for 24 hr at 39°C. In vitro rumen degradability of DM and CP of tannin‐treated SBM decreased with increasing quantities of tannins, especially with CWE‐treated SBM. In vitro abomasal (pepsin‐HCl) digestibility of the DM and CP was only slightly suppressed. As a result, rumen by‐pass protein (BP‐CP) increased with increased quantities of tannins, especially with CWE‐treated SBM. In comparison with nontreated SBM, the BP‐CP digestibility did not decrease, except with the highest quantity of QUE. Treatment of the SBM with tannins, especially with CWE, increased flow of the undegraded protein to the abomasum, suggesting the better supply of the ruminant animal with amino acids.
The proportion of computed tomography kidneys, ureters and bladder (CTKUB) scans that comply with scan extent protocol in an emergency department: a clinical audit and dose ramification study
Authors: Kasi Arianne , Steffens Tom , Starkey Deborah , Braithwaite Vicki
Published: December 2020

Introduction

To assess computed tomography kidneys, ureters and bladder (CTKUB) scan extent protocol compliance and associated doses in the Emergency Department (ED) of an Australian tertiary hospital.

Methods

A retrospective clinical audit of 150 consecutive ED CTKUB cases was completed. For each patient, scan extent compliance at the superior (kidneys) and inferior (pubic symphysis) borders, in reference to the protocol was recorded. Compliance and non‐compliance (over‐/under‐scanning) was identified, described (superior/inferior), quantified (via IMPAX measurements) and recorded via a purpose‐built audit tool. In addition, a PBU40 phantom was scanned to assess the percentage of dose (DLP) increase per centimetre of over‐scanning to contextualise results.

Results

A notable non‐compliance with department protocol was noted. Eight cases (5.3%) demonstrated overall CT scan extent compliance. The remaining 142 cases (94.7%) demonstrated some form of non‐compliance; superiorly, inferiorly or both. Analysing the 150 superior and 150 inferior data points independently, the most common non‐compliance was over‐scanning at the kidneys by 4 cm to5 cm (19 cases, ~10% extra DLP) beyond tolerance and over‐scanning inferiorly at the pubic symphysis by 1 cm to 2 cm (29 cases, ~6.4% extra DLP). Estimated dose increases of up to 35% to 45% were found when clinical audit results were simulated using a PBU40.

Conclusions

Over‐scanning is a predominant occurrence in CTKUB scans in this department. Reasons for over‐scanning weren't investigated. It's anticipated this audit will lead to greater awareness of scan extent compliance and dose ramifications of non‐compliance. The usage of more easily identified anatomical landmarks and a follow‐up audit is suggested.
Energy Profile Prediction of Milling Processes Using Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Mühlbauer Matthias , Würschinger Hubert , Polzer Dominik , Hanenkamp Nico
Published: December 2020

The prediction of the power consumption increases the transparency and the understanding of a cutting process, this delivers various potentials. Beside the planning and optimization of manufacturing processes, there are application areas in different kinds of deviation detection and condition monitoring. Due to the complicated stochastic processes during the cutting processes, analytical approaches quickly reach their limits. Since the 1980s, approaches for predicting the time or energy consumption use empirical models. Nevertheless, most of the existing models regard only static snapshots and are not able to picture the dynamic load fluctuations during the entire milling process. This paper describes a data-driven way for a more detailed prediction of the power consumption for a milling process using Machine Learning techniques. To increase the accuracy we used separate models and machine learning algorithms for different operations of the milling machine to predict the required time and energy. The merger of the individual models allows finally the accurate forecast of the load profile of the milling process for a specific machine tool. The following method introduces the whole pipeline from the data acquisition, over the preprocessing and the model building to the validation.
Hardening Deep Neural Networks in Condition Monitoring Systems against Adversarial Example Attacks
Authors: Specht Felix , Otto Jens
Published: December 2020

Condition monitoring systems based on deep neural networks are used for system failure detection in cyber-physical production systems. However, deep neural networks are vulnerable to attacks with adversarial examples. Adversarial examples are manipulated inputs, e.g. sensor signals, are able to mislead a deep neural network into misclassification. A consequence of such an attack may be the manipulation of the physical production process of a cyber-physical production system without being recognized by the condition monitoring system. This can result in a serious threat for production systems and employees. This work introduces an approach named CyberProtect to prevent misclassification caused by adversarial example attacks. The approach generates adversarial examples for retraining a deep neural network which results in a hardened variant of the deep neural network. The hardened deep neural network sustains a significant better classification rate (82% compared to 20%) while under attack with adversarial examples, as shown by empirical results.
Detection and localization of an underwater docking station in acoustic images using machine learning and generalized fuzzy hough transform
Authors: Karimanzira Divas , Renkewitz Helge
Published: December 2020

Long underwater operations with autonomous battery charging and data transmission require an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) with docking capability, which in turn presume the detection and localization of the docking station. Object detection and localization in sonar images is a very difficult task due to acoustic image problems such as, non-homogeneous resolution, non-uniform intensity, speckle noise, acoustic shadowing, acoustic reverberation and multipath problems. As for detection methods which are invariant to rotations, scale and shifts, the Generalized Fuzzy Hough Transform (GFHT) has proven to be a very powerful tool for arbitrary template detection in a noisy, blurred or even a distorted image, but it is associated with a practical drawback in computation time due to sliding window approach, especially if rotation and scaling invariance is taken into account. In this paper we use the fact that the docking station is made out of aluminum profiles which can easily be isolated using segmentation and classified by a Support Vector Machine (SVM) to enable selective search for the GFHT. After identification of the profile locations, GFHT is applied selectively at these locations for template matching producing the heading and position of the docking station. Further, this paper describes in detail the experiments that validate the methodology.
Deployment architecture for the local delivery of ML-Models to the industrial shop floor
Authors: Backhaus Andreas , Herzog Andreas , Adler Simon , Jachmann Daniel
Published: December 2020

Information processing systems with some form of machine-learned component are making their way into the industrial application and offer high potentials for increasing productivity and machine utilization. However, the systematic engineering approach to integrate and manage these machine-learned components is still not standardized and no reference architecture exist. In this paper we will present the building block of such an architecture which is developed with the ML4P project by Fraunhofer IFF.
Prediction of Batch Processes Runtime Applying Dynamic Time Warping and Survival Analysis
Authors: Graniero Paolo , Gärtler Marco
Published: December 2020

Batch runs corresponding to the same recipe usually have different duration. The data collected by the sensors that equip batch production lines reflects this fact: time series with different lengths and unsynchronized events. Dynamic Time Warping (DTW) is an algorithm successfully used, in batch monitoring too, to synchronize and map to a standard time axis two series, an action called alignment. The online alignment of running batches, although interesting, gives no information on the remaining time frame of the batch, such as its total runtime, or time-to-end. We notice that this problem is similar to the one addressed by Survival Analysis (SA), a statistical technique of standard use in clinical studies to model time-to-event data. Machine Learning (ML) algorithms adapted to survival data exist, with increased predictive performance with respect to classical formulations. We apply a SA-ML-based system to the problem of predicting the time-to-end of a running batch, and show a new application of DTW. The information returned by openended DTW can be used to select relevant data samples for the SA-ML system, without negatively affecting the predictive performance and decreasing the computational cost with respect to the same SA-ML system that uses all the data available. We tested the system on a real-world dataset coming from a chemical plant.
Information modeling and knowledge extraction for machine learning applications in industrial production systems
Authors: Windmann Stefan , Kühnert Christian
Published: December 2020

In this paper, a new information model for machine learning applications is introduced, which allows for a consistent acquisition and semantic annotation of process data, structural information and domain knowledge from industrial productions systems. The proposed information model is based on Industry 4.0 components and IEC 61360 component descriptions. To model sensor data, components of the OGC SensorThings model such as data streams and observations have been incorporated in this approach. Machine learning models can be integrated into the information model in terms of existing model serving frameworks like PMML or Tensorflowgraph. Based on the proposed information model, a tool chain for automatic knowledge extraction is introduced and the automatic classification of unstructured text is investigated as a particular application case for the proposed tool chain.
Explanation Framework for Intrusion Detection
Authors: Burkart Nadia , Franz Maximilian , Huber Marco F.
Published: December 2020

Machine learning and deep learning are widely used in various applications to assist or even replace human reasoning. For instance, a machine learning basedintrusion detection system (IDS)monitors a network for malicious activity or specific policy violations. We propose that IDSs should attach a sufficiently understandable report to each alert to allow the operator to review them more efficiently. This work aims at complementing an IDS by means of a framework to create explanations. The explanations support the human operator in understanding alerts and reveal potential false positives. The focus lies on counterfactual instances and explanations based on locally faithful decision-boundaries.
A remark on the non-uniqueness in $$L^\infty $$ of the solutions to the two-dimensional Stokes problem in exterior domains
Authors: Maremonti Paolo
Published: December 2020

The paper is concerned with the IBVP in exterior domains of the two-dimensional Stokes equations. The goal was to investigate the well-posedness in the set of solutions assuming an initial data $$u_0\in L^\infty (\Omega )$$

u
0

∈

L
∞

(
Ω
)

, divergence free, and enjoying the property "Equation missing" for all $$t>0$$

t
>
0

and c independent of u. For all $$u_0\in L^\infty $$

u
0

∈

L
∞

, divergence-free one shows examples of non-uniqueness in the above set of solutions.
Liouville results for fully nonlinear equations modeled on Hörmander vector fields: I. The Heisenberg group
Authors: Bardi Martino , Goffi Alessandro
Published: December 2020

This paper studies Liouville properties for viscosity sub- and supersolutions of fully nonlinear degenerate elliptic PDEs, under the main assumption that the operator has a family of generalized subunit vector fields that satisfy the Hörmander condition. A general set of sufficient conditions is given such that all subsolutions bounded above are constant; it includes the existence of a supersolution out of a big ball, that explodes at infinity. Therefore for a large class of operators the problem is reduced to finding such a Lyapunov-like function. This is done here for the vector fields that generate the Heisenberg group, giving explicit conditions on the sign and size of the first and zero-th order terms in the equation. The optimality of the conditions is shown via several examples. A sequel of this paper applies the methods to other Carnot groups and to Grushin geometries.
Stochastic Dynamic Programming with Non-linear Discounting
Authors: Bäuerle Nicole , Jaśkiewicz Anna , Nowak Andrzej S.
Published: December 2020

In this paper, we study a Markov decision process with a non-linear discount function and with a Borel state space. We define a recursive discounted utility, which resembles non-additive utility functions considered in a number of models in economics. Non-additivity here follows from non-linearity of the discount function. Our study is complementary to the work of Jaśkiewicz et al. (Math Oper Res 38:108–121, 2013), where also non-linear discounting is used in the stochastic setting, but the expectation of utilities aggregated on the space of all histories of the process is applied leading to a non-stationary dynamic programming model. Our aim is to prove that in the recursive discounted utility case the Bellman equation has a solution and there exists an optimal stationary policy for the problem in the infinite time horizon. Our approach includes two cases: (a) when the one-stage utility is bounded on both sides by a weight function multiplied by some positive and negative constants, and (b) when the one-stage utility is unbounded from below.
Horizontal annular flow through orifice studied by X-ray microtomography
Authors: Porombka Paul , Boden Stephan , Lucas Dirk , Hampel Uwe
Published: December 2020

An X-ray microtomography (µCT) system was adapted so that 3D scans of fixed horizontal or vertical test sections can be performed. The mobile µCT system has been applied to measure the local, time-averaged volume fraction distribution of developing annular air-water flow in a horizontal pipe with µm spatial resolution. Based on the volume fraction data the liquid film thickness profile is computed and the accumulation, stripping and renewal of the annular liquid film at a circular orifice is studied. The development length of the annular flow downstream of the orifice is evaluated based on the integral volume fraction and the change of the film thickness profile along the pipe axis. Both parameters give a consistent result, indicating that liquid film renewal can be judged based on integral measurement techniques in this case. Further, the detailed 3D data enables the validation of computational fluid dynamics codes based on phase-averaged variables such as the Euler-Euler approach.

Graphic abstract
Evaluation of mushroom-shaped allograft for unstable proximal humerus fractures
Authors: Dankl Lukas , Schmoelz Werner , Hoermann Romed , Euler Simon
Published: December 2020

Introduction

Proximal humerus fractures are common injuries of the elderly. Different treatment options, depending on fracture complexity and stability, have been recommended in the literature. Particularly for varus displaced fractures with a lack of medial support, and patients suffering from osteoporosis, structural allografts can be used to enhance the stability of the construct. An individually shaped allograft has been suggested in the literature and investigated in a clinical setting. However, biomechanical properties have yet to be evaluated.

Materials and methods

Twenty-four fresh-frozen humeri and 12 femoral heads were obtained, and an unstable three-part fracture of the humeral head was simulated. Fracture fixation was achieved by using a locking plate in both groups. In the test group, a mushroom-shaped allograft was tailored out of a femoral head to individually fit the void inside the humeral head. Specimens were fitted with a 3D motion analysis system and cyclically loaded with a stepwise increasing load magnitude in a varus-valgus bending test until failure or up to a maximum of 10,000 load cycles.

Results

The mushroom group reached a significantly higher number of load cycles (8342; SD 1,902; CI 7133–9550) compared to the control group (3475; SD 1488; CI 2530–4420;p < 0.001). Additionally, the test group showed significantly higher stiffness values concerning all observational points (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

This mushroom-shaped allograft in combination with a locking plate significantly increased load to failure as well as stiffness of the construct when exposed to varus-valgus bending forces. Therefore, it might be a viable option for surgical treatment of unstable and varus displaced proximal humerus fractures to superiorly prevent loss of reduction and varus collapse.
The development of the concept of uniform convergence in Karl Weierstrass’s lectures and publications between 1861 and 1886
Authors: Viertel Klaus
Published: December 2020

The history of uniform convergence is typically focused on the contributions of Cauchy, Seidel, Stokes, and Björling. While the mathematical contributions of these individuals to the concept of uniform convergence have been much discussed, Weierstrass is considered to be the actual inventor of today’s concept. This view is often based on his well-known article from 1841. However, Weierstrass’s works on a rigorous foundation of analytic and elliptic functions date primarily from his lecture courses at the University of Berlin up to the mid-1880s. For the history of uniform convergence, these lectures open up an independent branch of development that is disconnected from the approaches of the previously mentioned authors; to my knowledge, Weierstraß never explicitly referred to Cauchy’s continuity theorem (1821 or 1853) or to Seidel’s or Stokes’s contributions (1847). In the present article, Weierstrass’s contributions to the development of uniform convergence will be discussed, mainly based on lecture notes made by Weierstrass’s students between 1861 and the mid-1880s. The emphasis is on the notation and the mathematical rigor of the introductions to the concept, leading to the proposal to re-date the famous 1841 article and thus Weierstrass’s first introduction of uniform convergence.
Some like it, some do not: behavioral responses and central processing of olfactory–trigeminal mixture perception
Authors: Müschenich Franziska S. , Sichtermann Thorsten , Di Francesco Maria Elisa , Rodriguez-Raecke Rea , Heim Lennart , Singer Marco , Wiesmann Martin , Freiherr Jessica
Published: December 2020

Exploring the potential of eucalyptol as a masking agent for aversive odors, we found that eucalyptol masks the olfactory but not the trigeminal sensation of ammonia in a previous study. Here, we further investigate the processing of a mixture consisting of eucalyptol and ammonia, two olfactory–trigeminal stimuli. We presented the two pure odors and a mixture thereof to 33 healthy participants. The nostrils were stimulated alternately (monorhinal application). We analyzed the behavioral ratings (intensity and pleasantness) and functional brain images. First, we replicated our previous finding that, within the mixture, the eucalyptol component suppressed the olfactory intensity of the ammonia component. Second, mixture pleasantness was rated differently by participants depending on which component dominated their mixture perception. Approximately half of the volunteers rated the eucalyptol component as more intense and evaluated the mixture as pleasant (pleasant group). The other half rated the ammonia component as more intense and evaluated the mixture as unpleasant (unpleasant group). Third, these individual differences were also found in functional imaging data. Contrasting the mixture either to eucalyptol or to both single odors, neural activation was found in the unpleasant group only. Activation in the anterior insula and SII was interpreted as evidence for an attentional shift towards the potentially threatening mixture component ammonia and for trigeminal enhancement. In addition to insula and SII, further regions of the pain matrix were involved when assessing all participant responses to the mixture. Both a painful sensation and an attentional shift towards the unpleasant mixture component complicates the development of an efficient mask because a pleasant perception is an important requirement for malodor coverage.
Perisomatic innervation and neurochemical features of giant pyramidal neurons in both hemispheres of the human primary motor cortex
Authors: Szocsics Péter , Papp Péter , Havas László , Watanabe Masahiko , Maglóczky Zsófia
Published: December 2020

Betz cells—the gigantopyramidal neurons found in high amount in the primary motor cortex—are among of the most characteristic neuronal cells. A part of them contains the calcium-binding protein parvalbumin (PV) in primates. However, less is known about these cells in the human motor cortex despite their important role in different neurological disorders. Therefore, the aim of our study was to investigate the neurochemical features and perisomatic input properties of Betz cells in control human samples with short post-mortem interval. We used different microscopic techniques to investigate the primary motor cortex of both hemispheres. The soma size and density, and expression of PV of the Betz cells were investigated. Furthermore, we used confocal fluorescent and electron microscopy to examine their perisomatic input. The soma size and density showed moderate variability among samples and hemispheres. Post-mortem interval and hemispherical localization did not influence these features. Around 70% of Betz cells expressed PV, but in less intensity than the cortical interneurons. Betz neurons receive dense perisomatic input, which are mostly VIAAT- (vesicular inhibitory amino acid transporter) and PV immunopositive. In the electron microscope, we found PV-immunolabelled terminals with asymmetric-like synaptic structure, too. Terminals with morphologically similar synaptic specialisation were also found among vGluT2- (vesicular glutamate transporter type 2) immunostained terminals contacting Betz cells. Our data suggest that Betz cells’ morphological properties showed less variability among subjects and hemispheres than the density of them. Their neurochemical and perisomatic input characteristics support their role in execution of fast and precise movements.
Extrinsic neuromodulation in the rodent olfactory bulb
Authors: Brunert Daniela , Rothermel Markus
Published: December 2020

Evolutionarily, olfaction is one of the oldest senses and pivotal for an individual’s health and survival. The olfactory bulb (OB), as the first olfactory relay station in the brain, is known to heavily process sensory information. To adapt to an animal’s needs, OB activity can be influenced by many factors either from within (intrinsic neuromodulation) or outside (extrinsic neuromodulation) the OB which include neurotransmitters, neuromodulators, hormones, and neuropeptides. Extrinsic sources seem to be of special importance as the OB receives massive efferent input from numerous brain centers even outweighing the sensory input from the nose. Here, we review neuromodulatory processes in the rodent OB from such extrinsic sources. We will discuss extrinsic neuromodulation according to points of origin, receptors involved, affected circuits, and changes in behavior. In the end, we give a brief outlook on potential future directions in research on neuromodulation in the OB.
Self-moments stiffening effect and buckling strength of periodic Vierendeel beams
Authors: Penta Francesco
Published: December 2020

This paper deals with the buckling phenomenon of periodic Vierendeel beams. Closed-form solutions for critical loads and deformed shapes are presented. They are built by exploiting several auxiliary solutions obtained for the discrete periodic girder and for a geometrically nonlinear micro-polar equivalent model. In particular, the girder when subjected to sinusoidal self-equilibrated systems of inner bending moments (self-moments) is analysed. The corresponding results are used for solving the large-deflection equilibrium problem of the continuous equivalent model by means of the eigenfunction expansion technique. Girder buckling conditions are then defined in terms of kinematics of the micro-polar model: more precisely, they are attained when special distributions of self-moments, able to bend the continuous system without violating compatibility of shear strains, act in the girder. It is shown that these systems, neglected in the theories presented so far, have a significant stiffening effect on the buckling girder behaviour. Moreover, they are governed by the continuity equation for micro-rotations that is solved in closed form by the Galerkin method, with the micro-polar model eigenfunctions as basis functions. The accuracy of the proposed solutions is verified by comparing them with those achieved by a series of finite element girder models.
The nodal-based floating frame of reference formulation with modal reduction
Authors: Zwölfer Andreas , Gerstmayr Johannes
Published: December 2020

In a recent paper of the authors, a novel nodal-based floating frame of reference formulation (FFRF) for solid finite elements has been proposed. The nodal-based approach bypasses the unhandy inertia shape integrals ab initio, i.e. they neither arise in the derivation nor in the final equations of motion, leading to a surprisingly simple derivation and computer implementation without a lumped mass approximation, which is conventionally employed within commercial multibody codes. However, the nodal-based FFRF has so far been presented without modal reduction, which is usually required for efficient simulations. Hence, the aim of this follow-up paper is to bring the nodal-based FFRF into a suitable form, which allows the incorporation of modal reduction techniques to reduce the overall system size down to the number of modes included in the reduction basis, which further reduces the computational complexity significantly. Moreover, this exhibits a way to calculate the so-called FFRF invariants, which are constant “ingredients” required to set up the FFRF mass matrix and quadratic velocity vector, without integrals and without a lumped mass approximation.
Exceptional performance of multinational suppliers: theory and evidence
Authors: Pham Van , Woodland Alan , Caselli Mauro
Published: December 2020

This paper focuses on an unexamined area of trade—the behaviour of heterogeneous intermediate suppliers facing final producers of different ability and pursuing different strategies. To inform our empirical analysis, we develop a theoretical model to analyse the choice of an intermediate supplier between selling to domestic producers, selling to multinational producers and/or exporting to foreign producers. The model’s predictions are: (i) sufficiently productive firms self-select into supplying to multinationals or exporting, while the most productive firms pursue both strategies, and (ii) the order of preferred strategies between supplying to multinationals and exporting depends on foreign direct investment inflows and export set-up costs. The paper uses firm-level data with rare information about multinational suppliers from 29 countries in Europe and Central Asia in 2002 and 2005 to test these theoretical predictions. The empirical analysis confirms both of our model’s predictions. Moreover, it suggests that multinational suppliers are more likely to have higher required levels of ex-ante labour productivity than exporters, implying that exporting is easier and a more popular choice for firms.
Estimating and Explaining the Prevalence of Tuberculosis for Asylum Seekers Upon Their Arrival in Germany
Authors: Stadtmüller S. , Schröder J. , Ehlers S.
Published: December 2020

Up until recently incidences of tuberculosis (TB) had been declining for many years in Germany. The rise in TB cases coincided with a large increase in the number of people applying for asylum. We combine data from various sources to estimate the at-entry prevalence of TB for asylum seekers from 18 countries of origin and rely on survey data to explain the varying risk of suffering from TB. Our results reveal that asylum seekers from Eastern Africa show a much higher risk of suffering from TB than asylum seekers from Afghanistan, Syria, or Iraq. The survey data suggests that asylum seekers from Africa were by far more underprivileged in their respective countries of origin and experienced a higher risk of contracting TB on their way to Germany. Information about the socio-economic situation and the circumstances of the journey to Germany may help to improve TB surveillance.
On Kantian tendencies during the early corona pandemic in Germany
Authors: Feufel Markus A. , Schmid Christine , Westfal Viola
Published: December 2020

Based on an ad hoc online survey about risk perception and preventive behaviours, we describe three chronological phases related to how people in Germany perceived the Corona pandemic between March 22 and May 10, 2020. In general, participants reported to be less concerned about their own risk than about the risk faced by others. However, a good portion of those who thought that they themselves were low risk actually wrote about their belief that they nevertheless had a responsibility to behave in ways that benefited others, even if it came at a cost to themselves. In loose reference to Immanuel Kant’s notion that humans have a rational duty to act in a socially responsible manner, we interpret people’s comments about other-regarding behaviour as an initiation of a Kantian tendency during the Corona pandemic. Based on these findings, we suggest that policy makers may do better in times of crisis than nudging, incentivizing, or compelling the public by law. They can perhaps accomplish more by (also) nurturing people’s innate sense of the need for socially responsible action to be taken in order to meet the daunting challenges of present and future crises.
Cold Gas Spraying of Nickel-Titanium Coatings for Protection Against Cavitation
Authors: Mauer Georg , Rauwald Karl-Heinz , Sohn Yoo Jung , Weirich Thomas E.
Published: December 2020

Cavitation erosion is a sever wear mechanism that takes place in hydrodynamic systems. Examples are turbine vanes of hydropower plants or components of valves and pumps in hydraulic systems. Nickel-titanium shape memory alloys (NiTi) are attractive materials for cavitation-resistant coatings because of their pronounced intrinsic damping mitigating cavitation-induced erosion. In this work, NiTi coatings were produced by cold gas spraying. The phase transformation behaviors of the powder feedstock and the as-sprayed coatings were investigated. Regarding the obtained transformation temperatures, the measured substrate temperatures during spraying rule out that either the shape memory effect or the pseudoelasticity of NiTi could affect the deposition efficiency under the applied conditions of cold gas spraying. Another potential effect is stress-induced amorphization which could occur at the particle–substrate interfaces and impair particle bonding by stress relaxation. Moreover, also oxide formation can be significant. Thus, the presence of amorphous phases and oxides in the near-surface zone of particles bounced off after impact was investigated. Oxidation could be confirmed, but no indication of amorphous phase was found. Besides, also the evolution of local microstrains implies that the substrate temperatures affect the deposition efficiency. These temperatures were significantly influenced by the spray gun travel speed.
Analysis of the influence of process complexity and employee competence on the effect of digital assistance in industrial assembly
Authors: Keller Thimo , Behling Magnus , Stockinger Christopher , Metternich Joachim , Schützer Klaus
Published: December 2020

The diversification of products increases the complexity of production, which intensifies the demands placed on employees. Digital assistance is expected to improve employee performance and flexibility. This paper examines the impact of digital assistance on labor productivity (hourly output) and experience of use in dependence on process complexity and employee competence. Within the framework of an empirical study in the process learning factory CiP of the TU Darmstadt, the effect was quantified using the example of a typical assembly process. This paper presents the concept and the results of the study. After the classification of an assembly task, these results can be used to support the selection decision for a digital assistance system according to cost–benefit aspects.
Automated laser polishing for surface finish enhancement of additive manufactured components for the automotive industry
Authors: Caggiano Alessandra , Teti Roberto , Alfieri Vittorio , Caiazzo Fabrizia
Published: December 2020

Additive manufactured components require polishing to improve their inherently rough surface finish. In this work, an innovative laser polishing process based on wobbling of the laser beam is proposed for surface finish enhancement of additive manufactured parts made of Cr–Cu precipitation hardening steel, widely employed for mechanical components in the automotive industry. Parts were fabricated by selective laser melting and subjected to the innovative laser polishing under different process conditions. Surface characterization was performed by microstructural analysis and surface roughness measurement. Machine learning-based CNN processing of polished surface images was employed for automatic identification of optimal LP condition.
Selective toxicity of antibacterial agents—still a valid concept or do we miss chances and ignore risks?
Authors: Dalhoff Axel
Published: December 2020

Background

Selective toxicity antibacteribiotics is considered to be due to interactions with targets either being unique to bacteria or being characterized by a dichotomy between pro- and eukaryotic pathways with high affinities of agents to bacterial- rather than eukaryotic targets. However, the theory of selective toxicity oversimplifies the complex modes of action of antibiotics in pro- and eukaryotes.

Methods and objective

This review summarizes data describing multiple modes of action of antibiotics in eukaryotes.

Results

Aminoglycosides, macrolides, oxazolidinones, chloramphenicol, clindamycin, tetracyclines, glycylcyclines, fluoroquinolones, rifampicin, bedaquillin, ß-lactams inhibited mitochondrial translation either due to binding to mitosomes, inhibition of mitochondrial RNA-polymerase-, topoisomerase 2ß-, ATP-synthesis, transporter activities. Oxazolidinones, tetracyclines, vancomycin, ß-lactams, bacitracin, isoniazid, nitroxoline inhibited matrix-metalloproteinases (MMP) due to chelation with zinc and calcium, whereas fluoroquinols fluoroquinolones and chloramphenicol chelated with these cations, too, but increased MMP activities. MMP-inhibition supported clinical efficacies of ß-lactams and daptomycin in skin-infections, and of macrolides, tetracyclines in respiratory-diseases. Chelation may have contributed to neuroprotection by ß-lactams and fluoroquinolones. Aminoglycosides, macrolides, chloramphenicol, oxazolidins oxazolidinones, tetracyclines caused read-through of premature stop codons. Several additional targets for antibiotics in human cells have been identified like interaction of fluoroquinolones with DNA damage repair in eukaryotes, or inhibition of mucin overproduction by oxazolidinones.

Conclusion

The effects of antibiotics on eukaryotes are due to identical mechanisms as their antibacterial activities because of structural and functional homologies of pro- and eukaryotic targets, so that the effects of antibiotics on mammals are integral parts of their overall mechanisms of action.
The Legal Characterization of Facts During the Red Terror in Ethiopia: Genocide, War Crimes, or Crimes Against Humanity?
Authors: Yilma Kassahun Molla
Published: December 2020

Multiple countries have investigated and prosecuted the perpetrators of crimes committed during the Red Terror in Ethiopia. In bringing the perpetrators to account, each country adopted a unique approach, resulting in a variation in the situation’s legal characterization. The charges against the Red Terror perpetrators in the U.S. were based on violations of immigration laws, while the perpetrators in Ethiopia were charged and convicted of the crime of genocide. In contrast, one suspect, who had already been convicted of genocide by the Ethiopian High Court, has recently been convicted of war crimes by the Hague District Court, the Netherlands. The article investigates whether the Red Terror crimes constitute war crimes, genocide, or crimes against humanity. Accordingly, this analysis shows that while countries have used genocide or war crimes when prosecuting crimes perpetrated during the Red Terror, the best fit to the situation’s legal characterization would be crimes against humanity.
Embodying Devotion: Multisensory Encounters with Donatello'sCrucifixin S. Croce
Authors: Johnson Geraldine A.
Published: December 2020

The reception of art is often described in ocularcentric terms, but all five senses could engage devotional objects in late medieval and early modern Europe. This article explores this phenomenon by considering a wooden crucifix with movable arms made by Donatello for the Franciscan church of S. Croce in Florence in the early fifteenth century. It makes new suggestions about the work's original location, its possible patrons, and its functions and reception, especially during the rituals associated with Good Friday. It also reflects on the challenges scholars face when taking a multisensory approach to premodern visual and material culture.