bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lithium-Ionen-Batterien – Kreislaufwirtschaftliche Herausforderungen am Ende des Lebenszyklus und im Recycling
Authors: Nigl Thomas , Rutrecht Bettina , Altendorfer Michael , Scherhaufer Silvia , Meyer Ina , Sommer Mark , Beigl Peter
Published: February 2021

Mit anhaltender Verkehrswende nimmt die Bedeutung von Lithium-Ionen-Batterien (LIB) in Zukunft stark zu. Im Sinne der Kreislaufwirtschaft sind einerseits die optimale und nachhaltige Nutzung vorhandener Ressourcen, andererseits das Schließen von Material-Kreisläufen durch geeignete und effiziente Recyclingverfahren unabdingbar. Der Artikel behandelt die aktuellen Problemfelder und Herausforderungen entlang der Wertschöpfungskette von LIB am Ende ihres Lebenszyklus. Dabei werden insbesondere Aspekte der Vorbehandlung und des Recyclings beleuchtet.
Characteristics of taste alterations in people receiving taxane-based chemotherapy and their association with appetite, weight, and quality of life
Authors: Kaizu Mikiko , Komatsu Hiroko , Yamauchi Hideko , Yamauchi Teruo , Sumitani Masahiko , Doorenbos Ardith Z
Published: February 2021

Purpose

There is limited evidence on the effect of chemotherapy-associated taste alteration. This study aimed to evaluate taste alteration characteristics in patients receiving taxane-based chemotherapy and investigate the association of taste alterations with appetite, weight, quality of life (QOL), and adverse events.

Methods

This cross-sectional study evaluated 100 patients receiving paclitaxel, docetaxel, or nab-paclitaxel as monotherapy or combination therapy. Taste alterations were evaluated using taste recognition thresholds and severity and symptom scales. Taste recognition thresholds, symptoms, appetite, weight, and adverse events were compared between patients with and without taste alterations, and logistic regression analysis was performed to identify risk factors.

Results

Of the 100 patients, 59% reported taste alterations. We found significantly elevated taste recognition thresholds (hypogeusia) for sweet, sour, and bitter tastes in the taste alteration group receiving nab-paclitaxel (p = 0.022, 0.020, and 0.039, respectively). The taste alteration group reported general taste alterations, decline in basic taste, and decreased appetite. Neither weight nor QOL was associated with taste alterations. Docetaxel therapy, previous chemotherapy, dry mouth, and peripheral neuropathy were significantly associated with taste alterations.

Conclusions

Almost 60% of patients receiving taxane-based regimens, especially docetaxel, reported taste alterations. Taste alteration affected the patient’s appetite but did not affect the weight or QOL. Docetaxel therapy, previous chemotherapy, dry mouth, and peripheral neuropathy were independent risk factors for taste alterations.
Energy asymptotics in the three-dimensional Brezis–Nirenberg problem
Authors: Frank Rupert L. , König Tobias , Kovařík Hynek
Published: February 2021

For a bounded open set$$\Omega \subset {\mathbb {R}}^3$$Ω⊂R3we consider the minimization problem$$\begin{aligned} S(a+\epsilon V) = \inf _{0\not \equiv u\in H^1_0(\Omega )} \frac{\int _\Omega (|\nabla u|^2+ (a+\epsilon V) |u|^2)\,dx}{(\int _\Omega u^6\,dx)^{1/3}} \end{aligned}$$S(a+ϵV)=inf0≢u∈H01(Ω)∫Ω(|∇u|2+(a+ϵV)|u|2)dx(∫Ωu6dx)1/3involving the critical Sobolev exponent. The functionais assumed to be critical in the sense of Hebey and Vaugon. Under certain assumptions onaandVwe compute the asymptotics of$$S(a+\epsilon V)-S$$S(a+ϵV)-Sas$$\epsilon \rightarrow 0+$$ϵ→0+, whereSis the Sobolev constant. (Almost) minimizers concentrate at a point in the zero set of the Robin function corresponding toaand we determine the location of the concentration point within that set. We also show that our assumptions are almost necessary to have$$S(a+\epsilon V)<S$$S(a+ϵV)0$$ϵ>0.
The Upper Jurassic Garedu Red Bed Formation of the northern Tabas Block: elucidating Late Cimmerian tectonics in east-Central Iran
Authors: Wilmsen Markus , Fürsich Franz Theodor , Seyed-Emami Kazem , Majidifard Mahmoud Reza
Published: February 2021

The Garedu Red Bed Formation (GRBF) of the northern Tabas Block (Central-East Iranian Microcontinent, CEIM) is a lithologically variable, up to 500-m-thick, predominantly continental unit. It rests gradually or unconformably on marine limestones of the Esfandiar Subgroup (Callovian–Oxfordian) and is assigned to the Kimmeridgian–Tithonian. In the lower part, it consists of pebble- to boulder-sized conglomerates/breccias composed of limestone clasts intercalated with calcareous sandstones, litho-/bioclastic rudstones and lacustrine carbonates. Up-section, sharp-based pebbly sandstones and red silt-/fine-grained sandstones of braided river origin predominate. Palaeocurrent data suggest a principal sediment transport from west to east and a lateral interfingering of the GRBF with marine greenish marls of the Korond Formation at the eastern margin of the Tabas Block. Westwards, the GRBF grades into the playa deposits of the Magu Gypsum Formation. Red colours and common calcretes suggest arid to semi-arid climatic conditions. The onset of Garedu Red Bed deposition indicates a major geodynamic change with the onset of compressive tectonics of the Late Cimmerian Tectonic Event (LCTE), being strongest at the eastern margin of the northern Tabas Block. When traced southwards, the same tectonic event is expressed by extension, indicating a shift in tectonic style along the boundary fault between the Tabas and Lut blocks. The complex Upper Jurassic facies distribution as well as the spatio-temporal changes in tectonic regime along the block-bounding faults are explained by the onset of counterclockwise vertical-axis rotation of the CEIM in the Kimmeridgian. The block boundaries accommodated the rotation by right-lateral strike slip, transpressional in today’s northern and transtensional in today’s southern segments of the block-bounding faults. Rotation occurred within bracketing transcurrent faults and continued into the Early Cretaceous, finally resulting in the opening of narrow oceanic basins encircling the CEIM. Palaeogeographically, the GRBF is part of a suite of red bed formations not only present on the CEIM, but also along the Sanandaj-Sirjan Zone (NW Iran), in northeastern Iran and beyond, indicating inter-regional tectonic instability, uplift and erosion under (semi-)arid climatic conditions across the Jurassic–Cretaceous boundary. Thus, even if our geodynamic model successfully explains Late Jurassic tectonic rotations, fault motions and facies distribution for the CEIM, the basic cause of the LCTE still remains enigmatic.
Randomly positioned gold nanoparticles as fluorescence enhancers in apta-immunosensor for malaria test
Authors: Minopoli Antonio , Della Ventura Bartolomeo , Campanile Raffaele , Tanner Julian A. , Offenhäusser Andreas , Mayer Dirk , Velotta Raffaele
Published: February 2021

A plasmon-enhanced fluorescence-based antibody-aptamer biosensor — consisting of gold nanoparticles randomly immobilized onto a glass substrate via electrostatic self-assembly — is described for specific detection of proteins in whole blood. Analyte recognition is realized through a sandwich scheme with a capture bioreceptor layer of antibodies — covalently immobilized onto the gold nanoparticle surface in upright orientation and close-packed configuration by photochemical immobilization technique (PIT) — and a top bioreceptor layer of fluorescently labelled aptamers. Such a sandwich configuration warrants not only extremely high specificity, but also an ideal fluorophore-nanostructure distance (approximately 10–15 nm) for achieving strong fluorescence amplification. For a specific application, we tested the biosensor performance in a case study for the detection of malaria-related marker Plasmodium falciparum lactate dehydrogenase (PfLDH). The proposed biosensor can specifically detect PfLDH in spiked whole blood down to 10 pM (0.3 ng/mL) without any sample pretreatment. The combination of simple and scalable fabrication, potentially high-throughput analysis, and excellent sensing performance provides a new approach to biosensing with significant advantages compared to conventional fluorescence immunoassays.

Graphical abstract
Dystonia updates: definition, nomenclature, clinical classification, and etiology
Authors: Grütz Karen , Klein Christine
Published: February 2021

A plethora of heterogeneous movement disorders is grouped under the umbrella term dystonia. The clinical presentation ranges from isolated dystonia to multi-systemic disorders where dystonia is only a co-occurring sign. In the past, definitions, nomenclature, and classifications have been repeatedly refined, adapted, and extended to reflect novel findings and increasing knowledge about the clinical, etiologic, and scientific background of dystonia. Currently, dystonia is suggested to be classified according to two axes. The first axis offers precise categories for the clinical presentation grouped into age at onset, body distribution, temporal pattern and associated features. The second, etiologic, axis discriminates pathological findings, as well as inheritance patterns, mode of acquisition, or unknown causality. Furthermore, the recent recommendations regarding terminology and nomenclature of inherited forms of dystonia and related syndromes are illustrated in this article. Harmonized, specific, and internationally widely used classifications provide the basis for future systematic dystonia research, as well as for more personalized patient counseling and treatment approaches.
Variation in physical characteristics of rainfall in Iran, determined using daily rainfall concentration index and monthly rainfall percentage index
Authors: Kaboli Sadegh , Hekmatzadeh Ali Akbar , Darabi Hamid , Haghighi Ali Torabi
Published: February 2021

Variations in rainfall characteristics play a key role in available water resources for a country. In this study, spatial and temporal variations in rainfall in Iran were determined using the daily rainfall concentration index (DRCI) and monthly rainfall percentage index (MRPI), based on 30-year (1987–2016) daily precipitation records from 80 meteorological stations throughout Iran. The results showed that MRPI differed between locations within Iran, with increasing or decreasing trends observed in different areas. The highest significant decreasing trend in MRPI (3–7% per decade) was found for March rainfall in western Iran, and the highest increasing trend in MRPI (3–7% per decade) for November rainfall in eastern and southern Iran. The DRCI values obtained varied from 0.57 to 0.71, indicating moderate and high rainfall concentrations, with the highest DRCI values in coastal zones of Iran near the Caspian Sea and the Persian Gulf. Trend analysis showed increasing trends in DRCI values at 80% of meteorological stations, and these trends were significant at 37% of those stations.
In vivo emergence of beige-like fat in chickens as physiological adaptation to cold environments
Authors: Sotome Rina , Hirasawa Akira , Kikusato Motoi , Amo Taku , Furukawa Kyohei , Kuriyagawa Anna , Watanabe Kouichi , Collin Anne , Shirakawa Hitoshi , Hirakawa Ryota , Tanitaka Yuta , Takahashi Hideki , Wu Guoyao , Nochi Tomonori , Shimmura Tsuyoshi , Warden Craig H. , Toyomizu Masaaki
Published: February 2021

While it has been hypothesized that brown adipocytes responsible for mammalian thermogenesis are absent in birds, the existence of beige fat has yet to be studied directly. The present study tests the hypothesis that beige fat emerges in birds as a mechanism of physiological adaptation to cold environments. Subcutaneous neck adipose tissue from cold-acclimated or triiodothyronine (T3)-treated chickens exhibited increases in the expression of avian uncoupling protein (avUCP, an ortholog of mammalian UCP2 and UCP3) gene and some known mammalian beige adipocyte-specific markers. Morphological characteristics of white adipose tissues of treated chickens showed increased numbers of both small and larger clusters of multilocular fat cells within the tissues. Increases in protein levels of avUCP and mitochondrial marker protein, voltage-dependent anion channel, and immunohistochemical analysis for subcutaneous neck fat revealed the presence of potentially thermogenic mitochondria-rich cells. This is the first evidence that the capacity for thermogenesis may be acquired by differentiating adipose tissue into beige-like fat for maintaining temperature homeostasis in the subcutaneous fat ‘neck warmer’ in chickens exposed to a cold environment.
The longitudinal association of eating behaviour and ADHD symptoms in school age children: a follow-up study in the RHEA cohort
Authors: Leventakou Vasiliki , Herle Moritz , Kampouri Mariza , Margetaki Katerina , Vafeiadi Marina , Kogevinas Manolis , Chatzi Leda , Micali Nadia
Published: February 2021

Previous evidence suggests a link between attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms and disordered eating behaviours; however, the direction of the causal association remains unclear. Building on our previous research, we aimed to examine the longitudinal association between eating behaviours at 4 years, ADHD symptoms at 6 years of age, and the role of body mass index (BMI). We included children from the RHEA mother–child cohort in Greece, followed up at 4 and 6 years (n = 926). Parents completed the Children’s Eating Behaviour Questionnaire (CEBQ) to assess children’s eating behaviour at 4 years and the ADHD Test (ADHDT) and Child Behaviour Checklist for ages 6–18 (CBCL/6–18) to evaluate ADHD symptoms at 4 and 6 years, respectively, as well as measures of BMI. Longitudinal structural equation modeling (SEM) was carried out to evaluate the associations of all variables between 4 and 6 years. Food responsiveness at 4 years was positively associated with hyperactivity at age 6, whereas emotional overeating was negatively associated with hyperactivity. There was no evidence of an association between eating behaviours of preschoolers and BMI at 6 years, or BMI at 4 years and later ADHD symptoms and vice versa. Findings suggest that food responsiveness is an early marker of ADHD symptoms at 6 years of age. In contrast to our hypothesis there was no significant association between ADHD at age 4 and BMI at age 6.
Does migration depress regional human capital accumulation in the EU’s new member states? Theoretical and empirical evidence
Authors: Sardadvar Sascha , Vakulenko Elena
Published: February 2021

During the first decade of the present century the countries which accessed the EU were characterised by high GDP growth rates while most of their regions displayed negative net-migration rates. At the same time, the new member states’ human capital endowments were high relative to their GDP levels, creating incentives to emigrate. The present paper takes a detailed look at the interplay of regional human capital endowments and migration. First, by theoretically examining migration’s determinants and second, by testing the corresponding findings via panel econometric regressions for the EU’s new member states’ regions. The results display positive impacts of net-migration on regional human capital growth rates, improving the economic potential of thriving regions but possibly increasing disparities within countries.
Bipolar sorting and ranking of multistage alternatives
Authors: Trzaskalik Tadeusz
Published: February 2021

The present paper proposes an extension of the multicriteria Bipolar method, introduced by E. Konarzewska-Gubała, and its application to the control of multistage, multicriteria decision processes with a fixed number of stages. At each stage, two sets of reference points are determined, which constitute a reference system for the evaluation of stage decisions. At the end of the process, multistage alternatives—compositions of stage alternatives—are evaluated. The procedure proposed, which includes elements of the Electre methodology, allows to assign each multistage alternative to one of the six predefined, hierarchical classes, and then to perform ranking within each class. The purpose of the paper is to present and substantiate the dynamic Bipolar procedure. An essential part of the paper is a numerical example which illustrates the notions and relationships introduced.
Equilibrium computation in resource allocation games
Authors: Harks Tobias , Timmermans Veerle
Published: February 2021

We study the equilibrium computation problem for two classical resource allocation games: atomic splittable congestion games and multimarket Cournot oligopolies. For atomic splittable congestion games with singleton strategies and player-specific affine cost functions, we devise the first polynomial time algorithm computing a pure Nash equilibrium. Our algorithm is combinatorial and computes the exact equilibrium assuming rational input. The idea is to compute an equilibrium for an associated integrally-splittable singleton congestion game in which the players can only split their demands in integral multiples of a common packet size. While integral games have been considered in the literature before, no polynomial time algorithm computing an equilibrium was known. Also for this class, we devise the first polynomial time algorithm and use it as a building block for our main algorithm. We then develop a polynomial time computable transformation mapping a multimarket Cournot competition game with firm-specific affine price functions and quadratic costs to an associated atomic splittable congestion game as described above. The transformation preserves equilibria in either game and, thus, leads – via our first algorithm – to a polynomial time algorithm computing Cournot equilibria. Finally, our analysis for integrally-splittable games implies new bounds on the difference between real and integral Cournot equilibria. The bounds can be seen as a generalization of the recent bounds for single market oligopolies obtained by Todd (Math Op Res 41(3):1125–1134 2016, 10.1287/moor.2015.0771).
Complexity traits and synchrony of cryptocurrencies price dynamics
Authors: Provenzano Davide , Baggio Rodolfo
Published: February 2021

In this study, we characterized the dynamics and analyzed the degree of synchronization of the time series of daily closing prices and volumes in US$ of three cryptocurrencies, Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin, over the period September 1,2015–March 31, 2020. Time series were first mapped into a complex network by the horizontal visibility algorithm in order to revel the structure of their temporal characters and dynamics. Then, the synchrony of the time series was investigated to determine the possibility that the cryptocurrencies under study co-bubble simultaneously. Findings reveal similar complex structures for the three virtual currencies in terms of number and internal composition of communities. To the aim of our analysis, such result proves that price and volume dynamics of the cryptocurrencies were characterized by cyclical patterns of similar wavelength and amplitude over the time period considered. Yet, the value of the slope parameter associated with the exponential distributions fitted to the data suggests a higher stability and predictability for Bitcoin and Litecoin than for Ethereum. The study of synchrony between the time series investigated displayed a different degree of synchronization between the three cryptocurrencies before and after a collapse event. These results could be of interest for investors who might prefer to switch from one cryptocurrency to another to exploit the potential opportunities of profit generated by the dynamics of price and volumes in the market of virtual currencies.
The efficacy and safety of enzalutamide with trastuzumab in patients with HER2+ and androgen receptor-positive metastatic or locally advanced breast cancer
Authors: Wardley Andrew , Cortes Javier , Provencher Louise , Miller Kathy , Chien A. Jo , Rugo Hope S. , Steinberg Joyce , Sugg Jennifer , Tudor Iulia C. , Huizing Manon , Young Robyn , Abramson Vandana , Bose Ron , Hart Lowell , Chan Stephen , Cameron David , Wright Gail S. , Graas Marie-Pascale , Neven Patrick , Rocca Andrea , Russo Stefania , Krop Ian E.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Androgen receptor (AR) expression occurs in up to 86% of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive (HER2+) breast cancers. In vitro, AR inhibitors enhance antitumor activity of trastuzumab, an anti-HER2 antibody, in trastuzumab-resistant HER2+ cell lines. This open-label, single-arm, phase II study evaluated the efficacy and safety of enzalutamide, an AR-signaling inhibitor, in patients with advanced HER2+ AR+ breast cancer previously treated with trastuzumab.

Methods

Eligible patients had measurable or non-measurable evaluable disease per Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) v1.1, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group status ≤ 1, no history of brain metastases, and previously received ≥ 1 anti-HER2 regimen for advanced disease. Patients received 160 mg oral enzalutamide daily and 6 mg/kg intravenous trastuzumab every 21 days until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Primary end point was clinical benefit rate at 24 weeks (CBR24); secondary end points included progression-free survival (PFS) and safety.

Results

Overall, 103 women were enrolled [median age 60 years (range 34–83)]; 62% had received ≥ 3 lines of prior anti-HER2 therapy. CBR24, comprising patients with confirmed partial responses (5%) and durable stable disease at 24 weeks (19%), was 24% in the efficacy evaluable set (n = 89). CBR24 did not seem related to AR-expression levels or hormone receptor status. Median PFS was 3.4 months (95% confidence interval 2.0–3.8). Overall, 97 (94%) patients experienced treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs), with fatigue most common (34%). Dyspnea (4%) and malignant neoplasm progression (3%) were the only TEAEs grade ≥ 3 reported in ≥ 3 patients. 22 patients (21%) reported serious TEAEs. Four patients (4%) experienced fatal, non-drug-related TEAEs.

Conclusions

Enzalutamide plus trastuzumab was well tolerated, and a subset of patients in this heavily pretreated population had durable disease control. Determination of biomarkers is needed to identify patients most likely to benefit from this combination.

ClinicalTrials.gov number

NCT02091960
Online measurement of floc size, viscosity, and consistency of cellulose microfibril suspensions with optical coherence tomography
Authors: Lauri Janne , Haavisto Sanna , Salmela Juha , Miettinen Arttu , Fabritius Tapio , Koponen Antti I.
Published: February 2021

In this study, cellulose microfibril (CMF) suspensions were imaged during pipe flow at consistencies of 0.4%, 1.0%, and 1.6% with optical coherence tomography (OCT) to obtain images of the structure and the local velocity of the suspension. The viscosities obtained by combining pressure loss measurement with the OCT velocity data showed typical shear thinning behavior and were in excellent agreement with viscosities obtained with ultrasound velocity profiling. The structural OCT images were used to calculate the radial and the axial floc sizes of the suspension. A fit of power law to the geometrical floc size–shear stress data gave the same power law index for all consistencies, suggesting that floc rupture dynamics is independent of consistency. The dependence of viscosity and floc size on shear stress was similar, indicating that the shear thinning behavior of CMF suspensions is closely related to the rupture dynamics of flocs. The results also showed that an apparent attenuation coefficient of the OCT signal can be used to determine the consistency of CMF suspensions.
EphA4 Obstructs Spinal Cord Neuron Regeneration by Promoting Excessive Activation of Astrocytes
Authors: Chen Xiaogang , Zhang Lin , Hua Fu , Zhuang Yu , Liu Huan , Wang Shouguo
Published: February 2021

Studies have found that molecular targets that regulate tissue development are also involved in regulating tissue regeneration. Erythropoietin-producing hepatocyte A4 (EphA4) not only plays a guiding role in neurite outgrowth during the development of the central nervous system (CNS) but also induces injured axon retraction and inhibits axon regeneration after spinal cord injury (SCI). EphA4 targets several ephrin ligands (including ephrin-A and ephrin-B) and is involved in cortical cell migration, axon guidance, synapse formation and astrocyte function. However, how EphA4 affects axon regeneration after SCI remains unclear. This study focuses on the effect and mechanism of EphA4-regulated astrocyte function in neuronal regeneration after SCI. Our research found that EphA4 expression increased significantly after SCI and peaked at 3 days post-injury; accordingly, we identified the cellular localization of EphA4 and ephrin-B ligands in neurons and astrocytes after SCI. EphA4 was mainly expressed on the surface of neurons, ephrin-B1 and ephrin-B3 were mainly localized on astrocytes, and ephrin-B2 was distributed on both neurons and astrocytes. To further elucidate the effect of EphA4 on astrocyte function after SCI, we detected the related cytokines secreted by astrocytes in vivo. We found that the levels of neurotrophic factors including nerve growth factor (NGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) increased significantly after SCI (NGF peaked at 3 days and bFGF peaked at 7 days); the expression of laminin and fibronectin increased gradually after SCI; the expression of inflammatory factors [interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6] increased significantly from 4 h to 7 days after SCI; and the levels of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), a marker of astrocyte activation, and chondroitin sulphate proteoglycan (CSPG), the main component of glial scars, both peaked at 7 days after SCI. Using a damaged astrocyte model in vitro, we similarly found that the levels of related cytokines increased after injury. Consequently, we observed the effect of damaged astrocytes on neurite outgrowth and regeneration, and the results showed that damaged astrocytes hindered neurite outgrowth and regeneration; however, the inhibitory effect of injured astrocytes on neurite regeneration was reduced following ephrin-B receptor knockdown or inflammatory inhibition at 24 h after astrocyte injury. Our results showed that EphA4 regulates the secretion of neurotrophic factors, adhesion molecules, inflammatory factors and glial scar formation by binding with the ligand ephrin-B located on the surface of astrocytes. EphA4 affects neurite outgrowth and regeneration after SCI by regulating astrocyte function.
An Intricate Quantum Statistical Effect and the Foundation of Quantum Mechanics
Authors: Bopp Fritz W.
Published: February 2021

An intricate quantum statistical effect guides us to a deterministic, non-causal quantum universe with a given fixed initial and final state density matrix. A concept is developed on how and where something like macroscopic physics can emerge. However, the concept does not allow philosophically crucial free will decisions. The quantum world and its conjugate evolve independently, and one can replace fixed final states on each side just with a common matching one. This change allows for external manipulations done in the quantum world and its conjugate, which do not otherwise alter the basic quantum dynamics. In a big bang/big crunch universe, the expanding part can be attributed to the quantum world and the contracting one to the conjugate one. The obtained bi-linear picture has several noteworthy consequences.
Human Activity and Forest Degradation Threaten Populations of the Nigeria–Cameroon Chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes ellioti) in Western Cameroon
Authors: Fotang Chefor , Bröring Udo , Roos Christian , Enoguanbhor Evidence Chinedu , Abwe Ekwoge E. , Dutton Paul , Schierack Peter , Angwafo Tsi Evaristus , Birkhofer Klaus
Published: February 2021

Increased human activities such as commodity-led deforestation, extension of agriculture, urbanization, and wildfires are major drivers of forest loss worldwide. In Cameroon, these activities cause a loss of suitable primate habitat and could ultimately threaten the survival of chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes). We derived independent estimates of the population size of the Endangered Nigeria–Cameroon chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes ellioti) in Kom-Wum Forest Reserve, Cameroon, and surrounding unprotected forest areas through 1) direct observations, 2) camera trapping, 3) distance sampling, 4) marked nest counts, and 5) standing crop nest counts. In addition, we georeferenced signs of chimpanzee and human activity along line transects. We used a generalized linear mixed model to predict the occurrence of chimpanzees in response to edge length (measured as the perimeter of core forest patches), core area of forest patches (measured as area of forest patches beyond an edge width of 100 m), habitat perforation (measured as the perimeter of nonforested landscape within core forest patches), patch size(measured as area of forest patches), and forest cover. Chimpanzee density estimates ranged from 0.1 (direct observation) to 0.9 (distance sampling) individuals km−2depending on estimation method with a mean nest group size of 7 ± 5.4 (SD). The mean encounter rate for signs of chimpanzee activity was significantly higher in mature forests (2.3 signs km−1) than in secondary forests (0.3 signs km−1) and above 1000 m elevation (4.0 signs km−1) than below 1000 m (1.0 signs km−1). The mean encounter rate for signs of human activity was significantly higher in secondary (8.0 signs km−1) than in mature forests (0.9 signs km−1). Secondary forests, habitat perforation, and edge length had a significant negative effect on the occurrence of chimpanzee signs. Overall, human activity and forest degradation affected the number of observed chimpanzee signs negatively. Regular antipoaching patrols and reforestation programs in degraded areas could potentially reduce threats to populations of endangered species and may increase suitable habitat area.
Variation in the fatty acid profiles of two cold water diatoms grown under different temperature, light, and nutrient regimes
Authors: Spilling Kristian , Seppälä Jukka , Schwenk Dagmar , Rischer Heiko , Tamminen Timo
Published: February 2021

There is a growing demand for marine omega-3 fatty acids (FAs) that is produced in high amounts by some microalgae. Here we determined the FA profiles of two cold water adapted diatoms,Chaetoceros wighamiiandThalassiosira baltica. The cultures were acclimated to different temperatures (3, 7, 11, 15, and 19 °C) and irradiance (20, 40, 130, and 450 μmol photons m−2s−1) and the FA profiles were determined in exponential and stationary growth phases, the latter induced by different nutrient limitation (N, P, and Si). The maximum growth rate was obtained by both species at 11 °C, ≥ 130 μmol photons m−2s−1and was 0.8 day−1and 0.6 day−1forC. wighamiiandT. baltica, respectively. Both species contained relatively high amounts of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA).Thalassiosira balticaaccumulated maximally ~ 30 mg EPA g−1ash-free dry weight (AFDW) under Si-limitation. The content of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) was lower, reaching up to 4 mg DHA g−1AFDW inT. baltica. The concentration of EPA correlated positively with the chlorophylla:carbon ratio, suggesting that it is bound to membranes in the photosynthetic apparatus and the EPA content inT. balticawas high enough to consider it as a potent candidate for cultivation under cold (< 15 °C) conditions. Covering a wide range of environmental conditions, the strongest differentiation in FA profiles was observed between the species with the growth phase/nutrient limitation pattern as the second most important driver of the FA composition.
Atmospheric pressure metal organic chemical vapor deposition of thin germanium films
Authors: Fritzsche Ronny , Zahn Dietrich R. , Mehring Michael
Published: February 2021

The deposition of thin germanium films by atmospheric pressure metal organic chemical vapor deposition at temperatures below 400 °C on substrates such as silicon wafers, float glass, and polyimide (Kapton®) using the diorganogermanes GeH2Cp4M2 and GeH2Cp*2 as molecular precursors is described. The deposition rates and thus the layer thicknesses can be varied by temperature and time to give layers with a thickness in the nanometer range. The homogeneity and roughness of the deposited films were analyzed by means of atomic force microscopy measurements showing the formation of smooth and uniform surfaces with roughnesses of the films in the range of (1 ± 0.15) nm to (4.5 ± 1.5) nm. Films with thicknesses between 50 and 750 nm were deposited and analyzed by Raman spectroscopy, vis–NIR spectroscopy, electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The as-deposited films are composed of amorphous germanium containing approximately 10% of carbon. Using Kapton® as a substrate highly flexible films were obtained.
The small world of German CEOs: a multi-method analysis of the affiliation network structure
Authors: Semenova Elena
Published: February 2021

This paper seeks to understand the structure of corporate networks in the period following the dissolution of Deutschland AG (“Germany Inc.”). For this purpose, affiliation networks among chief executive officers (CEOs) that are based on common membership in various societal organizations will be examined. I apply an innovative mix of methods for studying a sample of CEOs from the 100 top companies in Germany in the 2010s. Based on social network analysis, I show that the overall affiliation network has all features of a small-world network, i.e., a high clustering coefficient and a short path length among the CEOs. The average degree of separation among German CEOs is only two steps. Another innovative contribution of this paper is its study of the linkage between affiliation network features and patterns of corporate recruitment. Using multiple correspondence analysis, I show that different subgroups of the overall affiliation network have their specific network characteristics and recruitment patterns. Within the network, managers from automotive and technical engineering often assume brokerage positions, while managers from the trade branch are largely isolated. This study shows that the affiliation networks and corporate recruitment patterns are interlinked; the transformation of corporate networks is a dynamic outcome of interrelations among different subgroups within the network, each with distinct educational, professional, and network characteristics.
Catalytic antibodies in the bone marrow and other organs of Th mice during spontaneous development of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis associated with cell differentiation
Authors: Aulova Kseniya S. , Urusov Andrey E. , Toporkova Ludmila B. , Sedykh Sergey E. , Shevchenko Yuliya A. , Tereshchenko Valery P. , Sennikov Sergei V. , Budde Thomas , Meuth Sven G. , Orlovskaya Irina A. , Nevinsky Georgy A.
Published: February 2021

Exact mechanisms of autoimmune disease development are still yet unknown. However, it is known that the development of autoimmune diseases is associated with defects in the immune system, namely, the violation of the bone marrow hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) differentiation profiles. Different characteristics of autoimmune reaction development in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) prone Th mice characterizing T-lymphocytes response were analyzed using standard approaches. Profiles of several HSCs differentiation of bone marrow (BFU-E, CFU-E, CFU-GM, CFU-GEMM, T- and B-lymphocytes) of Th male and female mice during spontaneous development of EAE were noticeably different. Patterns of total lymphocytes, B- and T-cells proliferation in several different organs (bone marrow, blood, spleen, thymus, and lymph nodes) were also remarkably different. In addition, there were in time noticeable differences in their changes for some organs of male and female mice. Characters of changes in the profiles of CD4 and CD8 cells proliferation in some organs not always coincide with those for total T lymphocytes. The changes in the differentiation profiles of HSCs and the level of lymphocytes proliferation in the bone marrow and other organs were associated with the increase in the concentration of antibodies against DNA, myelin basic protein, and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein, and catalytic antibodies hydrolyzing these substrates. Despite some differences in changes in the analyzed parameters, in general, the spontaneous development of EAE in male and female mice occurs to some extent in a comparable way.
Optimal Operation of Transient Gas Transport Networks
Authors: Hoppmann-Baum Kai , Hennings Felix , Lenz Ralf , Gotzes Uwe , Heinecke Nina , Spreckelsen Klaus , Koch Thorsten
Published: February 2021

In this paper, we describe an algorithmic framework for the optimal operation of transient gas transport networks consisting of a hierarchical MILP formulation together with a sequential linear programming inspired post-processing routine. Its implementation is part of the KOMPASS decision support system, which is currently used in an industrial setting. Real-world gas transport networks are controlled by operating complex pipeline intersection areas, which comprise multiple compressor units, regulators, and valves. In the following, we introduce the concept of network stations to model them. Thereby, we represent the technical capabilities of a station by hand-tailored artificial arcs and add them to network. Furthermore, we choose from a predefined set of flow directions for each network station and time step, which determines where the gas enters and leaves the station. Additionally, we have to select a supported simple state, which consists of two subsets of artificial arcs: Arcs that must and arcs that cannot be used. The goal is to determine a stable control of the network satisfying all supplies and demands. The pipeline intersections, that are represented by the network stations, were initially built centuries ago. Subsequently, due to updates, changes, and extensions, they evolved into highly complex and involved topologies. To extract their basic properties and to model them using computer-readable and optimizable descriptions took several years of effort. To support the dispatchers in controlling the network, we need to compute a continuously updated list of recommended measures. Our motivation for the model presented here is to make fast decisions on important transient global control parameters, i.e., how to route the flow and where to compress the gas. Detailed continuous and discrete technical control measures realizing them, which take all hardware details into account, are determined in a subsequent step. In this paper, we present computational results from the KOMPASS project using detailed real-world data.
Liability, culpability, and luck
Authors: Nelkin Dana Kay
Published: February 2021

This paper focuses on the role of culpability in determining the degree of liability to defensive harm, and asks whether there are any restrictions on when culpability is relevant to liability. A natural first suggestion is that it is only relevant (or at least is significantly enhanced) when combined with an actual threat of harm in the situation in which defensive harm becomes salient as a means of protection. The paper begins by considering the question of whether two people are equally liable to defensive harm in a situation if both culpably intend to harm another, but due to circumstances outside the control of the two people only one has a chance of succeeding in causing harm. I argue that there is no difference in liability between the two. I then turn to a kind of slippery slope challenge that accepting this conclusion would lead to a vast over-inclusiveness in those liable to defensive harm, and consider a recent attempt at meeting it that requires that a person’s culpability can only affect liability if it concerns the very situation in which defensive harm is relevant. Finally, I put forward and assess a new way of meeting the challenge that appeals to a particular conception of culpability together with auxiliary theses concerning how culpability can decrease over time, among others.
Renal complications in patients with chronic hypoparathyroidism on conventional therapy: a systematic literature review
Authors: Gosmanova Elvira O. , Houillier Pascal , Rejnmark Lars , Marelli Claudio , Bilezikian John P.
Published: February 2021

A systematic literature review was performed to summarize the frequency and nature of renal complications in patients with chronic hypoparathyroidism managed with conventional therapy. Methodology was consistent with the recommendations outlined in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement. Peer-reviewed journal articles with specified medical subject heading terms were identified using the PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases. Data were extracted from eligible articles based on prespecified parameters for clinical outcomes of renal calcifications and disease. Because of the heterogeneity of the data, a meta-analysis could not be conducted. From 1200 potentially relevant articles, data were extracted from 13 manuscripts that reported data for ≥1 of the 19 predefined renal outcomes for ≥10 adult patients (n = 11 manuscripts) or pediatric patients (n = 2 manuscripts). The collective data provide evidence that adult and pediatric patients with chronic hypoparathyroidism and treated with conventional therapy (oral calcium and active vitamin D) had an increased risk of renal complications. The reported rate of nephrolithiasis was up to 36%, with the lowest rates in studies reporting shorter duration of disease. The rate of nephrocalcinosis was up to 38%. Some studies reported a combined nephrolithiasis/nephrocalcinosis outcome of 19% to 31%. Data for renal disease that encompassed a range of renal insufficiency to chronic kidney disease were reported in 10 articles; the reported rates ranged from 2.5% to 41%. In patients who receive long-term treatment with oral calcium and active vitamin D, chronic hypoparathyroidism may be associated with an increased risk of renal complications compared with the general population.
The skill of self-control
Authors: Bermúdez Juan Pablo
Published: February 2021

Researchers often claim that self-control is a skill. It is also often stated that self-control exertions are intentional actions. However, no account has yet been proposed of the skillful agency that makes self-control exertion possible, so our understanding of self-control remains incomplete. Here I propose theskill model of self-control, which accounts for skillful agency by tackling the guidance problem: how can agents transform their abstract and coarse-grained intentions into the highly context-sensitive, fine-grained control processes required to select, revise and correct strategies during self-control exertion? The skill model borrows conceptual tools from ‘hierarchical models’ recently developed in the context of motor skills, and asserts that self-control crucially involves the ability to manage the implementation and monitoring of regulatory strategies as the self-control exercise unfolds. Skilled agents are able do this by means offlexible practical reasoning: a fast, context-sensitive type of deliberation that incorporates non-propositional representations (including feedback signals about strategy implementation, such as the feeling of mental effort) into the formation and revision of the mixed-format intentions that structure self-control exertion. The literatures on implementation intentions and motivation framing offer corroborating evidence for the theory. As a surprising result, the skill of self-control that allows agents to overcome the contrary motivations they experience is self-effacing: instead of continuously honing this skill, expert agents replace it with a different one, which minimizes or prevents contrary motivations from arising in the first place. Thus, the more expert you are at self-control, the less likely you are to use it.
Comparison of two Turnip mosaic virus P1 proteins in their ability to co-localize with the Arabidopsis thaliana G3BP-2 protein
Authors: Reuper Hendrik , Krenz Björn
Published: February 2021

Turnip mosaic virus (TuMV), belonging to the genus Potyvirus (family Potyviridae), has a large host range and consists of a single-stranded positive sense RNA genome encoding 12 proteins, including the P1 protease. This protein which is separated from the polyprotein by cis cleavage at its respective C-terminus, has been attributed with different functions during potyviral infection of plants. P1 of Turnip mosaic virus (P1-TuMV) harbors an FGSF-motif and FGSL-motif at its N-terminus. This motif is predicted to be a binding site for the host Ras GTPase-activating protein-binding protein (G3BP), which is a key factor for stress granule (SG) formation in mammalian systems and often targeted by viruses to inhibit SG formation. We therefore hypothesized that P1-TuMV might interact with G3BP to control and regulate plant SGs to optimize cellular conditions for the production of viral proteins. Here, we analyzed the co-localization of the Arabidopsis thaliana G3BP-2 with the P1 of two TuMV isolates, namely UK 1 and DEU 2. Surprisingly, P1-TuMV-DEU 2 co-localized with AtG3BP-2 under abiotic stress conditions, whereas P1-TuMV-UK 1 did not. AtG3BP-2::RFP showed strong SGs formation after stress, while P1-UK 1::eGFP maintained a chloroplastic signal under stress conditions, the signal of P1-DEU 2::eGFP co-localized with that of AtG3BP-2::RFP. This indicates a specific interaction between P1-DEU 2 and the AtG3BP family which is not solely based on the canonical interaction motifs.
Comparison of lipidome profiles of Caenorhabditis elegans—results from an inter-laboratory ring trial
Authors: Spanier Britta , Laurençon Anne , Weiser Anna , Pujol Nathalie , Omi Shizue , Barsch Aiko , Korf Ansgar , Meyer Sven W. , Ewbank Jonathan J. , Paladino Francesca , Garvis Steve , Aguilaniu Hugo , Witting Michael
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Lipidomic profiling allows 100s if not 1000s of lipids in a sample to be detected and quantified. Modern lipidomics techniques are ultra-sensitive assays that enable the discovery of novel biomarkers in a variety of fields and provide new insight in mechanistic investigations. Despite much progress in lipidomics, there remains, as for all high throughput “omics” strategies, the need to develop strategies to standardize and integrate quality control into studies in order to enhance robustness, reproducibility, and usability of studies within specific fields and beyond.

Objectives

We aimed to understand how much results from lipid profiling in the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans are influenced by different culture conditions in different laboratories.

Methods

In this work we have undertaken an inter-laboratory study, comparing the lipid profiles of N2 wild type C. elegans and daf-2(e1370) mutants lacking a functional insulin receptor. Sample were collected from worms grown in four separate laboratories under standardized growth conditions. We used an UPLC-UHR-ToF–MS system allowing chromatographic separation before MS analysis.

Results

We found common qualitative changes in several marker lipids in samples from the individual laboratories. On the other hand, even in this controlled experimental system, the exact fold-changes for each marker varied between laboratories.

Conclusion

Our results thus reveal a serious limitation to the reproducibility of current lipid profiling experiments and reveal challenges to the integration of such data from different laboratories.