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Tool manufacturers are facing increasing competitive pressure and growing demand for innovation. One key aspect in the tool manufacturing industry concerns the optimization of the design process of cutting tool geometries, which are essential for the efficiency and stability of the cutting process. Current approaches are experience based and require a large number of experimental cutting tests. This paper presents a novel approach for the optimization of the design process of circular saw teeth by combining FE simulation with DoE allowing a more sparing use of resources. Subsequently, the optimized circular saw tooth geometry is ground and validated by comparing the cutting forces resulting from the FE simulation with those measured during the experimental cutting tests. The results show a strong correlation between resulting cutting forces of the FE simulation when compared to those of experimental cutting tests, which drastically reduces the experimental effort, which in turn minimizes the number of test tools. Furthermore, it was shown that using the optimized saw tooth geometry, cutting forces were significantly reduced when compared to those of a standard tool geometry. This approach enables tool manufacturers to a more efficient and sustainable saw tooth design process, increasing their competitiveness in the machining industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global megatrends of digitization and sustainability lead to new challenges for the design and management of technical products in industrial companies. Product management - as the bridge between market and company - has the task to absorb and combine the manifold requirements and make the right product-related decisions. In the process, it is confronted with heterogenous information, rapidly changing portfolio components, as well as increasing product, and organizational complexity. Combining and utilizing data from different sources, e.g., product usage data and social media data leads to promising potentials to improve the quality of product-related decisions. In this paper, we reinforce the need for data-driven product management as an interdisciplinary field of action. The state of data-driven product management in practice was analyzed by conducting workshops with six manufacturing companies and hosting a focus group meeting with experts from different industries. We investigate the expectations and derive requirements leading us to open research questions, a vision for data-driven product management, and a research agenda to shape future research efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high-pressure waterjet is a flexible and powerful tool for machining of high-performance products with reduced manufacturing time and costs. However, waterjet machining of complex geometries is difficult to handle because of the complication in controlling and adjusting the process. Therefore, the goal of this study is to improve a process control method to adjust the waterjet tool orientation and to optimize the waterjet cutting process in a simple and efficient manner. As a result, a method is developed which is based on constant feed rate and a distinction between concave and convex curvature of the workpiece geometry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Although lower lean mass is associated with greater diabetes prevalence in cross-sectional studies, prospective data specifically in middle-aged Black and White adults are lacking. Relative appendicular lean mass (ALM), such as ALM adjusted for body mass index (BMI), is important to consider since muscle mass is associated with overall body size. We investigated whether ALM/BMI is associated with incident type 2 diabetes in the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults study.Methods and Results: 1893 middle-aged adults (55% women) were included. ALM was measured by DXA in 2005-06. Incident type 2 diabetes was defined in 2010-11 or 2015-16 as fasting glucose ≥7 mmol/L (126 mg/dL), 2-h glucose on OGTT ≥11.1 mmol/L (200 mg/dL) (2010-11 only), HbA1C ≥48 mmol/mol (6.5%) (2010-11 only), or glucose-lowering medications. Cox regression models with sex stratification were performed. In men and women, ALM/BMI was 1.07 ± 0.14 (mean ± SD) and 0.73 ± 0.12, respectively. Seventy men (8.2%) and 71 women (6.8%) developed type 2 diabetes. Per sex-specific SD higher ALM/BMI, unadjusted diabetes risk was lower by 21% in men [HR 0.79 (0.62-0.99), p = 0.04] and 29% in women [HR 0.71 (0.55-0.91), p = 0.008]. After adjusting for age, race, smoking, education, physical activity, and waist circumference, the association was no longer significant. Adjustment for waist circumference accounted for the attenuation in men.Conclusion: Although more appendicular lean mass relative to BMI is associated with lower incident type 2 diabetes in middle-aged men and women over 10 years, its effect may be through other metabolic risk factors such as waist circumference, which is a correlate of abdominal fat mass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyanobacterial blooms are increasing in frequency, duration, and severity globally in freshwater ecosystems. The Laurentian Great Lakes are prone to toxin-producing cyanobacterial blooms and have experienced annually recurring blooms. Because of its oligotrophic nature, Lake Superior has been relatively free of bloom occurrences. However, in recent years, Dolichospermum blooms have occurred with increasing frequency, especially in the western arm. During a Dolichospermum bloom in 2018, opportunistic samples were collected from the offshore bloom and investigated with shotgun metagenomics. We identified a near-complete Dolichospermum genome that is highly similar to genomes from cultures recovered in Lakes Erie and Ontario. The genomes from the Laurentian Great Lakes are typified by their putative ability to produce a suite of secondary metabolites like anabaenopeptin, but not toxins like microcystin. Additionally, we recovered a Dolichospermum lemmermannii 16S rRNA gene from the bloom and using datasets collected from the epilimnion and sediments in Lake Superior show this organism is ubiquitous and that several strains may exist. While there is much to learn about Lake Superior cyanobacterial bloom development and triggers, understanding this organism is endemic to the region, what its genome is capable of and that specific strains may have provenance within the lake provides a distinct ecological basis for understanding and working towards a predictive framework for future blooms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Valuable insights into treatment algorithms by real-world data on newer DMTs. • Decreased disease activity in pediatric MS patients on ocrelizumab and fingolimod. • No new T2 lesions in ocrelizumab-treated patients highlighting its efficacy. Observational studies looking at clinical a++nd MRI outcomes of treatments in pediatric MS, could assess current treatment algorithms, and provide insights for designing future clinical trials. To describe baseline characteristics and clinical and MRI outcomes in MS patients initiating ocrelizumab and fingolimod under 18 years of age. MS patients seen at 12 centers of US Network of Pediatric MS were included in this study if they had clinical and MRI follow-up and started treatment with either ocrelizumab or fingolimod prior to the age of 18. Eighty-seven patients initiating fingolimod and 52 initiating ocrelizumab met the inclusion criteria. Before starting fingolimod, mean annualized relapse rate was 0.43 (95 % CI: 0.29 – 0.65) and 78 % developed new T2 lesions while during treatment it was 0.12 (95 % CI: 0.08 – 1.9) and 47 % developed new T2 lesions. In the ocrelizumab group, the mean annualized relapse rate prior to initiation of treatment was 0.64 (95 % CI: 0.38–1.09) and a total of 83 % of patients developed new T2 lesions while during treatment it was 0.09 (95 % CI: 0.04–0.21) and none developed new T2 lesions. This study highlights the importance of evaluating current treatment methods and provides insights about the agents in the ongoing phase III trial comparing fingolimod and ocrelizumab. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Vertical farm promise food security with lesser resource and carbon footprint. • State-of-the-art innovation in materials & technologies of vertical farm. • Outer vertical structure and growing shelf using transparent polymer composite. • Application of biodegradable substrates, smart materials, artificial intelligence. • Increase productivity, quality, save energy, reduce cost and bring sustainability. With the growing urbanized population, vertical farming becomes indispensable in eradicating hunger and ensuring food security for the future. Food security has become a major challenge for the future owing to the scarcity of land, rising global population, urbanization, and polluted soil and water resources. In this scenario, vertical farming as an innovative food production technology caters increased productivity with limited resources and improved carbon footprint. The review begins with a brief introduction to the concept of vertical farming, its opportunities and implications on the economy, environment, and society as a whole, following with an in-depth qualitative analysis of the cutting-edge innovations/technologies are presented in detail. Contrary to the numerous research focusing on mere analysis of economic viability and statistical analysis, the aim is to introduce real cutting-edge technologies that address the challenges of vertical farms such as lack of technical skills or energy requirements. The recent advances of vertical farms includes construction of outer vertical structure and growing shelves using light weight and transparent polymer composites, engineered and tunable LEDs lightings, 3-D printed and recyclable growing substrates, AI-integrated IoTs for environment control, harvesting materials for renewable energy storage etc. Such material innovations with inclusion of AI and robotics transform automated vertical farming into 'state of the art' agricultural technology. Production shelf fabricated using UV cured GBOV-glass fiber composite with 60% transparency can overcome the material weight limitation, corrosion, light obstructions etc. associated with the conventional steel shelves. Replacing non-renewable fossil fuels using renewable energy harvested by carbon dots, fluorescent materials, and perovskite solar cells is recommended to minimize the high capital investments associated with energy as well as to reduce the environmental impact. Smart materials such as phase change materials and thermoresponsive windows control the amount of energy expended whereas smart substrate promotes resource management. Application of the newest technology AI in vertical farming facilitates precise control of environment, early pest detection, automation of farming processes, data-driven decision making and precision agriculture. In short, vertical farms utilizing modern innovations of science and technology caters enhanced productivity, improved quality, reduced cost, resource management and sustainability. Hence, automated and sustainable vertical farms promoting global food security and circularity have the potential to transform into burgeoning technology of future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The automotive industry's rapid advancement and complex demands concerning energy storage capacities and service life require lithium-ion batteries with improved energy density and cycle life. There are several ways to improve these two performance indicators for battery cells, such as using innovative, high-capacity electrode materials or novel and improved processes within battery production. One approach is prelithiation, a method to compensate for the initial capacity losses occurring either during the cell formation or during battery operation through the addition of lithium during cell production. In the case of direct contact prelithiation, thin lithium foils with a thickness below 10 µm are necessary to ensure the safe and accurate execution of the prelithiation process. However, the commercial availability of free-standing lithium foils is limited to minimum thicknesses of down to only 20 µm. For this reason, the present work examines in detail the calendering process of lithium. As part of a comprehensive parameter study, the influences of lithium foil geometries, line load, and roller temperature on the deformation behavior of lithium during calendering are investigated. A suitable process model is developed to understand the processing and thickness reduction of lithium and the calendering of lithium foils for direct contact prelithiation. For this purpose, a model based on empirical and semi-analytical approaches using fundamental physical interactions during calendering and material properties is developed and is parameterized based on experimental investigations on a laboratory scale. The combination of empirical and analytical modeling allows predictions about lithium processing and their validity ranges. The modeling intends to enable upscaling of the process and a transferability of direct contact prelithiation to the production of lithium-ion batteries on an industrial scale. Finally, the developed model contributes to understanding metallic lithium processing and its use for direct contact prelithiation in a roll-to-roll process and enables transferability of direct contact prelithiation to the production of lithium-ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The calendering process is the final property-defining step in the manufacturing of electrodes for lithium-ion batteries. Calendering significantly affects mechanical properties by compacting the electrodes and increases the lithium-ion batteries' volumetric energy density. The choice of calendering parameters is primarily based on empirical data, considering the final battery cell properties. The drive for increased energy densities and the corresponding high compaction rates results in an increased electrode defect and scrap occurrence. This leads to challenges in process control which are addressed in this paper by developing an agile and predictive sensor-based process control. Hereby an efficient determination of process parameters is enabled, resulting in a reduction of scrap and manufacturing costs. Applying in-line data acquisition for electrode thickness and surface topography allows real-time feedback of measurement data at the machine-product interface back into the calendering system control. Reliable data acquisition is established by integrating two sensor systems for coating thickness measurement (confocal sensors) and defect detection (laser triangulation sensor) in a cascaded arrangement, enabling real-time evaluation of the product properties achieved as a function of the process parameters. The associated potentials and challenges regarding a predictive analysis of machine and product behavior are addressed in this context. The experimental results demonstrate that the combination of both sensor systems offers the potential to establish an agile and innovative process control for the calendering process of lithium-ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The essential oil from Piper corcovadense D.DC. (EOPc), an important plant belonging to the Piperaceae family, which is commonly found in the northern region of Brazil and poorly explored scientifically, was used in this study. Thus, the EOPc was characterized chemically by Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) and the antioxidant and antimicrobial activities and their potential effects on cutaneous melanoma (SK-MEL-28) and healthy peripheral blood mononuclear (PBMC) cells were determined. The major compounds identified in the EOPc were: trans-sesquisabinene hydrate, trans-caryophyllene, β-pinene, trans-β-farnesene, 14-hydroxycaryophyllene, limonene and p -cymene. The EOPc demonstrated antioxidant activity as evaluated by Folin-Ciocalteu reagent (FC) reducing capacity, DPPH, and ABTS methods. The values found were respectively 5.41 ± 0.17 mg GAE mL−1 (GAE: Gallic acid equivalent), 2.88 ± 0.17 µmol TE mL−1 (TE: Trolox equivalent) and 6.26 ± 0.02 µmol TE mL−1. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were determined for different bacterial strains. The EOPc at a concentration of 2.61 µg mL−1 exhibited both bactericidal and bacteriostatic properties against Escherichia coli. The EOPc showed potential antitumor activity as it reduced the cell viability of human cutaneous melanoma cells SK-MEL-28. Besides, the EOPc did not exhibit cytotoxic activity against healthy PBMCs, indicating that it does not harm healthy cells at the tested concentrations. The EOPc increased the levels of ROS at concentrations of 250 µg mL−1. The EOPc also did not stimulate the mobilization of endogenous antioxidant defenses, as assessed by total thiol (PSH) and non-protein thiols (NPSH). Thus, the study suggests that the EOPc has antioxidant and antimicrobial properties due to the presence of specific compounds. It also exhibits antitumor potential against cutaneous melanoma cells while showing no cytotoxicity to healthy PBMCs. It directly influenced ROS levels at the highest tested concentration in the cells, suggesting an antitumor effect related to the intrinsic apoptosis pathway. Nevertheless, while the study has initial findings, the results are promising and indicate an attractive biological potential of P. corcovadense , mainly in human cutaneous melanoma cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the manufacturing of lithium-ion batteries, calendering is the final step in electrode production. It is a crucial process, which significantly influences the mechanical and electrochemical properties of the electrodes and is decisive in defining the volumetric energy density of lithium-ion batteries. To predict the calendering parameters, a particle model using the discrete element method (DEM) is calibrated based on a parameterization framework. The parameterization methodology for calibration applied in this paper is universally valid, applicable to various material systems and based on a one-factor-at-a-time variation to reduce the number of parameters. With this reduced parameter set, an automatic parametrization using optimization algorithms is feasible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The surface properties of machined components not only affect their optical but also functional behaviour, which makes information about waviness and roughness an important basis for optimization approaches. Therefore the still often used tactile measurement principles in industrial applications are continuously replaced by non-destructive optical measurement principles enabling faster and more flexible measuring. This paper discusses the comparability of different surface parameters, which were generated by profile or areal measurement using both the tactile and the stripe light projection principle. Based on the results the validity of the investigated parameters for different applications and materials can be increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waterjet machining is a particularly flexible and powerful tool for processing of high-performance materials which are difficult to machine conventionally. Waterjet cutting is a non-conventional and time efficient cutting technique without any significant thermal influence. However, it is difficult to handle as contour damages such as striations and taper angle arise in the component for 3D cutting applications. Consequently, it is mainly used in industry just for simple cutting tasks. Therefore, the main goal of this study is to compensate the contour damages of 3D cutting applications by employing an optimized model for 3D waterjet cutting. By using the optimized model with a particular dynamic process control, the necessary required inputs of the currently prevailing 3D waterjet processing are decreased. Moreover, these processes have been optimized in terms of reducing the striation and taper angle formation. By overcoming the contour damages during 3D waterjet cutting, the utilization potential of the waterjet machining for modern productions has been increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is no consensus on the management of spontaneous sternoclavicular joint infection (SCJI). Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) has been widely accepted for SCJI. We reviewed our experience with the management of this condition comparing NPWT alone and NPWT combined with instillation and dwell time. We retrospectively analyzed the data of patients with spontaneous SCJI treated in our thoracic unit. From March 2008 to October 2019, 27 patients (21 men and 6 women) underwent NPWT combined with muscle flap transfer after necrosectomy and chest wall resection for SCJI. The median age was 57.1 years (range, 35 to 85). Depending on management, the patients were divided into two groups: 16 patients with NPWT in group 1, and 11 patients with NPWT combined with instillation and dwell time in group 2. The severity of SCJI, extent of chest wall resection, and type of muscle flap were not significantly different (P =.35, P =.858, P =.705, respectively). Median duration of hospital stay and NPWT were shorter in group 2 (30 vs 25 days, and 20 vs 16 days, respectively). The required wound dressing changes were significantly lower in group 2 (P =.008). Statistical trend to higher bacterial eradication in group 2 was noted (P =.093). Postoperative complications including SCJI recurrence, wound seroma, and dehiscence were not significantly different between groups (P =.269). The NPWT combined with instillation and dwell time appears a useful strategy in patients with SCJI, leading to higher incidence of bacterial eradication and shorter wound care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• C. difficile colonization was studied in four long-term care facilities in Graz, Austria. • The prevalence of colonization by toxigenic C. difficile was 2.8%. • Each resident was colonized by a different C. difficile ribotype. • C. difficile was not detected in any of the environmental samples. We aimed to determine the prevalence of asymptomatic colonization by C. difficile in stool of residents in four long-term care facilities (LTCFs) in Graz, Austria and to identify factors associated with colonization. We conducted a point-prevalence study in March 2018. Stool samples were examined by GDH enzyme immunoassay and when positive a toxin A/B-enzyme immunoassay was carried out. Additionally, all samples were tested by toxin A and B PCR and were plated manually as well as in automated fashion onto selective C. difficile agar. In 4/144 (2.8%) residents the GDH assay was positive. Each resident was colonized by a different C. difficile ribotype. C. difficile was not detected in any of the environmental samples. Significantly more colonized residents (60%) had stayed at a hospital in the 3 months previous to the study compared to 10% of non-colonized patients (p =0.01). The prevalence of colonization by toxigenic C. difficile was 2.8% in patients in LTCFs in Graz, Austria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) most often affects young patients of reproductive age, yet little is known about its effects during pregnancy. We examined the course of EoE during pregnancy, outcomes of pregnancies, and patient concerns related to pregnancy and EoE. We sent a survey that queried demographic and disease-specific characteristics as well as pregnancy-related topics to all 151 female patients treated at 2 EoE centers in Switzerland. We analyzed cross-sectional survey data. Of 72 patients that returned the survey, we identified 20 patients that had at least 1 pregnancy and analyzed the data on 34 pregnancies. During pregnancy, improvement of dysphagia was reported in 56% (19/34) of all pregnancies, whereas deterioration was reported in 20% (7/34) of all pregnancies. After delivery, dysphagia returned to the pre-pregnancy level in 68% (13/19) of all pregnancies for patients with improvement of dysphagia and 57% (4/7) of all pregnancies for patients with deterioration of dysphagia during pregnancy. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy during pregnancy was required in less than 10% (3/34) of all pregnancies. Pregnancy-related complications occurred in 12% of pregnancies (4/34). The leading patient-reported concerns were fear of heritability (40% of patients, 8/20) and concerns of that use of medication would harm the fetus (30% of patients, 6/20). Pregnancy affects the course of EoE, with improvement of symptoms reported in most patients. Dysphagia returned to the pre-pregnancy level following delivery. EoE has likely no negative effects on outcomes of pregnancies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Post-traumatic elbow stiffness is a frequent and disabling complication after elbow trauma. Surgical release is needed if conservative treatment fails. In contrast to open surgical release, arthroscopic arthrolysis is a good and least invasive option to restore joint mobility. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes, range of motion (ROM), and function of post-traumatic elbow contracture after arthroscopic arthrolysis and to assess health-related quality of life (HRQL). Between 2007 and 2013, 44 patients with post-traumatic elbow stiffness were treated by arthroscopic arthrolysis and followed up in a consecutive series. Clinical (ROM) and functional analyses (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand Questionnaire [DASH], Mayo Elbow Performance Index [MEPI]) were performed at final follow-up 3 (1-7) years postoperatively. Furthermore, HRQL was evaluated (EQ-5D, 36-Item Short Form Health Survey [SF-36]). The average arc of elbow motion increased from 84° ± 28° preoperatively to 120° ± 18° postoperatively. All applied scores significantly improved pre- to postoperatively: the MEPI (59.8 ± 17.3 / 84.3 ± 14.0), DASH (43.5 ± 23.1 / 16.8 ± 15.6), EQ-5D (72.8 ± 16.6 / 84.0 ± 13.6), and SF-36 showed improved results in all categories. Univariate logistic regression revealed that preoperative pain level predicts a poorer postoperative outcome measured with the MEPI score. Revision arthroscopy was needed in 1 case because of persistent pain. Arthroscopic arthrolysis leads to good clinical and functional results in post-traumatic elbow stiffness regarding ROM, pain relief, functionality, and quality of life. The complication rate as well as the revision rate is very low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of novel active materials and compositions in lithium-ion battery electrodes is a main research focus due to the increasing demand for electric mobility. Calendering, as the final step in electrode production, is a critical process that significantly influences the mechanical and electrochemical properties of the electrode. This paper will present an approach to predict the influence of calendering on the electrode material, composition, thickness and the machine behavior. Additional investigations provide guidelines for optimizing the process. All in all, a deep understanding of how the calendering process effects the electrodes is presented and forms the basis for further investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objective was to demonstrate the potential of axial T2 mapping for quantification of untreated early-stage patellar cartilage lesions over time and to assess its capability as a potential predictive marker for future progression.Study Design& Methods: Thirty patients (mean age, 36.7 ± 11.1 years; 16 males), with early-stage patellar cartilage defects (≤ICRS grade 2) at baseline and no treatment during follow up (4.0 ± 1.6 years) were enrolled. Morphological cartilage changes over time were subdivided into a Progression, Non-Progression Group and Regression Group. Quantitative analysis of cartilage defects and healthy reference was performed by means of global and zonal T2 mapping (deep and superficial cartilage T2 values) at both time points. Statistical evaluation included analysis of variance (ANOVA), paired t Test's and ROC analysis.Results: The Progression Group (N = 11) had significantly higher global T2 values at baseline (57.4 ± 7.8 ms) than patients without (N = 17) (40.6 ± 6.9 ms) (P < 0.01). Furthermore the Non-Progression Group showed only a minor increase in global T2 relaxation times to 43.1 ± 7.9 ms (P = 0.07) at follow up, whereas in the progression group global (68,7 ± 19 ms: P = 0.02) and superficial T2 values (65,8 ± 8.2-79.8 ± 24.4 ms; P = 0.03) increased significantly. T2 values for healthy reference cartilage remained stable. In 2 patients an improvement in ICRS grading was observed (Regression Group) with decreasing T2 values. The ROC analysis showed an area under the curve of 0.92 (95%CI 0.82-1.0). At a cut-off value of 47.15 ms, we found a sensitivity of 92% (false-positive rate of 18%) for future progression of cartilage defects.Conclusions: This study provides evidence regarding the possible potential of axial T2 mapping as a tool for quantification and prediction of patellar cartilage defect progression in untreated defects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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• Exploring gene-environment interactions in MS reveals potential insights into disease onset. • Previous work suggests higher outdoor time and UV exposure reduce pediatric-onset MS risk. • While identifying no significant interactions, the study acknowledges limitations, such as potential presence of unexplored genetic variants. Our previous study identified a significant association between lower time spent outdoors, as a proxy of sun exposure, and a higher risk of pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis (POMS). UV radiation modulates the expression of several genes, but it is unknown whether these genes modify the effect of sun exposure on POMS risk. In an age- and sex-matched case-control study, we evaluated the additive and multiplicative interactions between time spent outdoors and genetic non- HLA risk variants for developing POMS within the metabolic pathways of UV radiation, including CD28 (rs6435203), CD86 (rs9282641), and NFkB1 (rs7665090) and the top two HLA risk factors (presence of DRB1×15 and absence of A*02). In an adjusted model (332 POMS cases, 534 healthy controls), greater time compared to <30 min/day spent outdoors during the prior summer and higher UV radiation dose were associated with decreased odds of POMS (OR 0.66, 95% CI 0.56–0.78, p < 0.001; OR 0.78, 95 % CI 0.62–0.98, p = 0.04, respectively). No significant additive or multiplicative interactions were found between risk factors. The exploration of gene-environment interactions in the risk of developing MS can unravel the underlying mechanisms involved. Although we do not have evidence that our candidate genes contribute to interactions, other genes may. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Monophasic ADEM patients are younger, male predominnt with an antecedent infection. • Prodromal symptoms are more common in monophasic ADEM vs MS and NMOSD. • Monophasic ADEM are less likely to have optic neuritis or gadolinium-enhancing lesions at onset. ADEM is an inflammatory disease, with new onset polyfocal neurologic symptoms, encephalopathy and multifocal demyelination, typically in childhood. Initial diagnosis of ADEM is challenging and up to 20 % of children with MS or NMOSD are initially diagnosed with ADEM. We describe characteristics of patients with monophasic ADEM vs. recurrent demyelinating syndromes at onset and identify features consistent with monophasic course. This is a multicenter observational study of children with demyelinating disease, followed at 12 regional pediatric MS centers. Descriptive statistics were used to report patient characteristics, clinical/imaging features and outcomes. Logistic regression was used to predict features associated with monophasic course. As of July 2019, 837 children with final diagnosis of ADEM (n = 79), MS (n = 646) or NMOSD (n = 112) were identified. The mean follow-up was 5·7 +/- 3·2 years. ADEM patients were youngest with mean age at first event 5·2 +/- 3·8 years (p < 0.001) and male predominant (66 %) (p < 0·001). After 2 years of follow-up, 83 % of patients initially diagnosed with monophasic ADEM retained this diagnosis. In multivariable analysis, older age (OR 1·16 [95 % CI 1·02 – 1·33] for 1-year increase, p = 0·02), presenting with optic neuritis (OR 8.18 [95 % CI 1.88 – 35.64], p = 0·005) and presence of gadolinium enhancement (OR 4.08 [95 % CI 1.38 – 12.08], p = 0·011) were associated with reclassification of ADEM to MS, NMOSD or DDNOS within 2 years. Children with monophasic ADEM vs. those reclassified as other demyelinating disorders are younger at onset, and less likely to have optic neuritis or gadolinium-enhancing lesions at onset. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using non-targeted metabolite profiling, we show that Medicago truncatula roots grown in an aeroponic cultivation system emit specific volatiles in response to two soil-born microorganisms, the symbiont Rhizophagus irregularis and the pathogen Aphanomyces euteiches. • Medicago roots emit volatiles as an early response to microorganisms (MOs). • More than 90 compounds were released from roots as detected by untargeted GC–MS. • Principal component analyses clearly distinguished untreated roots from treated roots. • Several volatiles were found to be emitted specifically in response to symbiotic or pathogenic MOs. • Plants discriminate between friend and foe at very early stages of their interaction. Plants are in permanent contact with various microorganisms and are always impacted by them. To better understand the first steps of a plant's recognition of soil-borne microorganisms, the early release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from roots of Medicago truncatula in response to the symbiont Rhizophagus irregularis or the pathogenic oomycete Aphanomyces euteiches was analysed. More than 90 compounds were released from roots as detected by an untargeted gas chromatography-mass spectrometry approach. Principal component analyses clearly distinguished untreated roots from roots treated with either R. irregularis or A. euteiches. Several VOCs were found to be emitted specifically in response to each of the microorganisms. Limonene was specifically emitted from wild-type roots after contact with R. irregularis spores but not from roots of the mycorrhiza-deficient mutant does not make infections3. The application of limonene to mycorrhizal roots, however, did not affect the mycorrhization rate. Inoculation of roots with A. euteiches zoospores resulted in the specific emission of several sesquiterpenes, such as nerolidol, viridiflorol and nerolidol-epoxyacetate but application of nerolidol to zoospores of A. euteiches did not affect their vitality. Therefore, plants discriminate between different microorganisms at early stages of their interaction and respond differently to the level of root-emitted volatiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Changes of sphingolipid metabolism were suggested to contribute to the patho-etiology of major depression (MD) and bipolar disorder (BD). In a pilot study we assessed if lipid allostasis manifested in pathological plasma concentrations of bioactive lipids i.e. endocannabinoids, sphingolipids, ceramides, and lysophosphatidic acids. Targeted and untargeted lipidomic analyses were performed according to GLP guidelines in 67 patients with unipolar or bipolar disorders (20–67 years, 36 male, 31 female) and 405 healthy controls (18–79 years, 142 m, 263 f), who were matched according to gender, age and body mass index. Multivariate analyses were used to identify major components, which accounted for the variance between groups and were able to predict group membership. Differences between MD and BP patients versus controls mainly originated from ceramides and their hexosyl-metabolites (C16Cer, C18Cer, C20Cer, C22Cer, C24Cer and C24:1Cer; C24:1GluCer, C24LacCer), which were strongly increased, particularly in male patients. Ceramide levels were neither associated with the current episode, nor with the therapeutic improvement of the Montgomery Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MARDS). However, long-chain ceramides were linearly associated with age, stronger in patients than controls, and with high plasma levels of diacyl- and triacylglycerols. Patients receiving antidepressants had higher ceramide levels than patients not taking these drugs. There was no such association with lithium or antipsychotics except for olanzapine. Our data suggest that high plasma ceramides in patients with major depression and bipolar disorder are indicative of a high metabolic burden, likely aggravated by certain medications. • Plasma levels of ceramides are strongly increased in patients with major depression and bipolar disorder. • Plasma ceramides are associated with gender, age and metabolic comorbidities but not with the current episode. • Plasma ceramides are particularly high in patients receiving antidepressants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Aim (1) describe the percentage of people living with HIV (PLWH) experiencing high levels of treatment burden who are at risk for self-management non-adherence, and (2) examine the relationship between known antecedent correlates (the number of chronic conditions, social capital, and age) of self-management and treatment burden while controlling for sample socio-demographics. Background Chronic condition self-management is key to maintaining optimal health in the aging population of PLWH. Despite the efforts of providers, patients, and caregivers, self-management non-adherence is still a factor contributing to poor chronic condition self-management and subsequent poor health outcomes. Recent research has identified treatment burden as a risk factor of poor chronic disease self-management adherence. Method Cross-sectional, secondary analysis of a sub-sample of 103 community dwelling, men and women diagnosed with HIV/AIDS derived from a larger parent study examining physical activity patterns in PLWH. Results Participants reported an overall low level of treatment burden (M = 22.84; SD = 24.57), although 16% (n = 16) of the sample indicated experiencing high treatment burden. The number of chronic conditions (r = 0.25; p ≤.01) and social capital (r = −0.19; p =.03) were significantly correlated with treatment burden. Multivariate analysis testing known antecedent correlates of treatment burden was statistically significant (p <.05), but only explained 8% of treatment burden's variance. Conclusion Findings have implications for nursing care of PLWH demonstrating a subset of PLWH experience high treatment burden related to chronic condition self-management. Findings also identify characteristics of PLWH who may be at high risk for treatment burden and subsequent self-management non-adherence. Highlights • Overall, PLWH experience low treatment burden. • 16% of study sample experienced high treatment burden. • Risk factors were chronic conditions and years since HIV diagnosis. • Increasing social capital may decrease treatment burden. • Treatment burden screening can help identify PLWH at risk for non-adherence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Fish ingestion of microplastic has been widely documented throughout freshwater, marine, and estuarine species. While numerous studies have quantified and characterized microplastic particles, analytical methods for polymer identification are limited. This study investigated the applicability of pyr-GC/MS for polymer identification of microplastics extracted from the stomach content of marine fish from the Texas Gulf Coast. A total of 43 microplastic particles were analyzed, inclusive of 30 fibers, 3 fragments, and 10 spheres. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) were the most commonly identified polymers (44.1%), followed by nylon (9.3%), silicone (2.3%), and epoxy resin (2.3%). Approximately 42% of samples could not be classified into a specific polymer class, due to a limited formation of pyrolytic products, low product abundance, or a lack of comparative standards. Diethyl phthalate, a known plasticizer, was found in 16.3% of the total sample, including PVC (14.3%), silicone (14.3%), nylon (14.3%), and sample unknowns (57.2%). Highlights • Pyr-GC/MS is an applicable tool for polymer identification of microplastic ingested by fish. • PVC and PET were the most commonly identified polymers. • Ingested microplastic may reflect local sources of pollution (e.g. petroleum waste). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Amaranth is presently an underutilized crop despite its high content of micronutrients/bioactive phytochemicals and its capacity to thrive in harsh environmental condition. The present study aimed at determining the health benefits of Amaranthus cruentus L. in terms of protection against DNA damage induced by the mycotoxin aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and oxidative stress using comet assay. The antioxidant potential was further investigated using electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy (EPR) and an ARE/Nrf2 reporter gene assay in vitro in a human liver model using the HepG2 cell line. Ethanolic extracts from fresh leaves grown under controlled conditions were used and additionally analyzed for their phytochemical content using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). The extracts inhibited both AFB1- and oxidative stress-induced DNA damage in a concentration dependent way with a maximum effect of 57% and 81%, respectively. Oxidative stress triggered using ferrous sulfate was blocked by up to 38% (EPR); the potential to induce antioxidant enzymes using ARE/Nrf2-mediated gene expression was also confirmed. Based on these in vitro findings, further studies on the health-protecting effects of A. cruentus are encouraged to fully explore its health promoting potential and provide the scientific basis for encouraging its cultivation and consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pesticides are major agricultural stressors for freshwater species. Exposure to pesticides can disrupt the biotic integrity of freshwater ecosystems and impair associated ecosystem functions. Unfortunately, physiological mechanisms through which pesticides affect aquatic organisms are largely unknown. For example, the widely-used insecticide chlorantraniliprole is supposed to be highly selective for target pest species, i.e. Lepidoptera (butterflies), but its effect in aquatic non-target taxa is poorly studied. Using RNA-sequencing data, we quantified the insecticide effect on three aquatic invertebrate species: the caddisfly Lepidostoma basale , the mayfly Ephemera danica and the amphipod Gammarus pulex. Further, we tested how the insecticide-induced transcriptional response is modulated by biotic interaction between the two leaf-shredding species L. basale and G. pulex. While G. pulex was only weakly affected by chlorantraniliprole exposure, we detected strong transcriptional responses in L. basale and E. danica , implying that the stressor receptors are conserved between the target taxon Lepidoptera and other insect groups. We found in both insect species evidence for alterations of the developmental program. If transcriptional changes in the developmental program induce alterations in emergence phenology, pronounced effects on food web dynamics in a cross-ecosystem context are expected. [Display omitted] • Gene expression profiling informs about modes of actions of chemicals in non-target taxa • Transcriptomic stress response depends on mechanisms of cellular stress perception • Biotic interaction can modulate insecticide-induced transcriptomic profiles • Insecticide exposure might evoke developmental alterations in aquatic insect larvae [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most installed phase change materials in real applications are typically spherical microencapsulated paraffin. However, salt hydrates can be a cheap alternative when combined with a suitable macroencapsulation. Such macroencapsulation enables the installation of different shapes and positions within the building material. Therefore, an experiment setup consisting of a wooden box equipped with infrared radiators and a cooler was used to investigate cuboid, cylindrical, plate-shaped, and spherical phase-change packages. All water vapor impermeable packages filled with salt hydrate were positioned within a standard concrete block. As a result, it can be seen that changing the design of a PCM package enables the opportunity to adjust the thermal behavior without changing the mass of the PCM. For a high heat transfer, a set up position of a large number of thin packages with a large heat transfer surface was found to be the best design. Using a thermal shading effect and an even distribution of the PCM within concrete block ensures a slow increase in the temperature of the block and thus a lower heat flow into the inner rooms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abrasive water jet (AWJ) milling, often referred to as abrasive water jet milling, has proven to be one of the most flexible non-conventional production techniques for difficult-to-machine materials. Currently no suitable material removal simulation for the water jet milling process is available. A modularized material removal simulation for the AWJ controlled depth machining process has been developed. Because the volume of material removal strongly depends on energy input per unit length of programmed toolpath, undesired deviations of the programmed feed rate like feed rate drops at sharp corners introduced by the water jet machine tool must be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastic pollution (plastic particles < 5 mm) has potentially harmful impacts on aquatic ecosystems. Understanding the factors that impact microplastic loading and distribution within aquatic ecosystems is crucial for assessing potential threats from microplastics. Here we examine the extent of microplastic pollution in the surface waters and sediments of four small inland lakes in Minnesota, USA that represent a range of human impacts as well as a variety of watershed and lake characteristics. Surface water particulates and benthic sediments were collected in the summers of 2019 and 2020 to examine the loading of microplastics into these lakes and their distribution throughout the ecosystems. Lower size cut offs were set at 330 μm for surface water particulate samples and 250 μm for sediment samples. Watershed to surface area ratio (WS:SA) and urban development were the most influential factors on microplastic loading. Surface water microplastic concentrations ranged from 27,000 microplastics km−2 in Elk Lake (small WS:SA and minimally developed) to 152,000 microplastics km−2 in White Iron Lake (large WS:SA and low development). Concentrations in benthic sediments ranged from 30 microplastics kg−1 dry sediment in White Iron Lake (forested watershed) to 270 microplastics kg−1 dry sediment in Peltier Lake (urbanized watershed) and were not directly correlated to surface water concentrations. Results from this study highlight the characteristics of small lakes that influence spatial and temporal variability in microplastic loading, retention, and deposition of microplastics to sediments. Further, this study demonstrates the difficulties of accurately predicting microplastic loading and the importance of comprehensive sampling to account for the variability of microplastic loading and distribution in smaller inland lakes. [Display omitted] • Watershed to surface area ratio and development affect lake microplastic loading. • Sediment concentrations do not directly correlate to surface water concentrations. • Fibers were the dominant microplastic morphology across all samples. • Spatial and temporal variation in microplastic concentration was seen across lakes. • Variability of Microplastic Loading and Retention in Four Inland Lakes in Minnesota, USA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global food security is a major challenge of this century as pointed out in the UN sustainable development goal (SDG) 2 for creating a world without hunger and malnutrition by promoting among others sustainable consumption and production pattern (SDG 12). With shrinking environmental resources there is a pressing need for alternative food sources such as edible macroalgae ("sea vegetables"). In recent years different research initiatives attempt to develop cultivation providing available freshly harvested macroalgal biomass in inland areas. In this context natural saline groundwater (brine) provides a promising solution for the cultivation of marine organisms. Here we tested firstly the suitability of regional brine from the area Brandenburg (Central Europe) for the indoor cultivation of two edible macroalgae ("sea vegetables") the chlorophyte Ulva compressa (flat gut weed, also formerly known as Enteromorpha sp.) and the rhodophyte Ceramium virgatum (formerly known as C. rubrum). For the evaluation of brine-based media, we considered different life stages of the macroalgae (e.g., spores, germlings and reproductive thalli) determining differences in their growth rates and nutritional composition (e.g., carotenoid, chlorophyll, and fatty acid concentrations). Brine based media supported macroalgae growth and development, with differences in growth and nutritional composition depending on macroalgal species and life stage. U. compressa cultivated with brine showed a thallus development and nutritional composition comparable to that of specimen cultivated in commercial media. In contrast, results for C. virgatum were less conclusive, due to an overall low germination rate ≤ 13 % under experimental conditions. Given the high demand for fresh macroalgal biomass and limited access to costly cultivation media, we suggest that use of natural brine provides a promising approach to foster the cultivation of selected "sea-vegetables" in inland areas including urban places. • Brine based media supported growth and development of Ulva compressa. • Nutritional profile of U. compressa was positively affected by brine-based media. • Nutritional composition differed between development stages of U. compressa. • Ceramium virgatum showed a low germination rate under given cultivation. • Untreated natural brine hindered the development and growth of macroalgae. • Need for taxa specific adaptation of natural brine for cultivation [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Material flow studies have shown that a large fraction of the engineered nanoparticles used in products end up in municipal waste. In many countries, this municipal waste is incinerated before landfilling. However, the behavior of engineered nanoparticles (ENPs) in the leachates of incinerated wastes has not been investigated so far. In this study, TiO 2 ENPs were spiked into synthetic landfill leachates made from different types of fly ash from three waste incineration plants. The synthetic leachates were prepared by standard protocols and two types of modified procedures with much higher dilution ratios that resulted in reduced ionic strength. The pH of the synthetic leachates was adjusted in a wide range (i.e. pH 3 to 11) to understand the effects of pH on agglomeration. The experimental results indicated that agglomeration of TiO 2 in the synthetic landfill leachate simultaneously depend on ionic strength, ionic composition and pH. However, when the ionic strength was high, the effects of the other two factors were masked. The zeta potential of the particles was directly related to the size of the TiO 2 agglomerates formed. The samples with an absolute zeta potential value < 10 mV were less stable, with the size of TiO 2 agglomerates in excess of 1500 nm. It can be deduced from this study that TiO 2 ENPs deposited in the landfill may be favored to form agglomerates and ultimately settle from the water percolating through the landfill and thus remain in the landfill. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Batteries are a strategic technology to decarbonize conventional automotive powertrains and enable energy policy turnaround from fossil fuels to renewable energy. The demand for battery packs is rising, but they remain unable to compete with conventional technologies, primarily due to higher costs. Major sources of cost remain in manufacturing and assembly. These costs can be attributed to a need for high product quality, material handling complexity, uncertain and fluctuating production volumes, and an unpredictable breadth of product variants. This research paper applies the paradigms of flexibility from a mechanical engineering perspective, and reconfigurability from a software perspective to form a holistic, integrated manufacturing solution to better realize product variants. This allows manufacturers to de-risk investment as there is increased confidence that a facility can meet new requirements with reduced effort, and also shows how part of the vision of Industry 4.0 associated with the integration and exploitation of data can be fulfilled. A functional decomposition of battery packs is used to develop a foundational understanding of how changes in customer requirements can result in physical product changes. A Product, Process, and Resource (PPR) methodology is employed to link physical product characteristics to physical and logical characteristics of resources. This mapping is leveraged to enable the design of a gripper with focused flexibility by the Institute for Machine Tools and Industrial Management (iwb) at the Technical University of Munich, as it is acknowledged that mechanical changes are challenging to realize within industrial manufacturing facilities. Reconfigurability is realised through exploitation of data integration across the PPR domains, through the extension of the capabilities of a non-commercial virtual engineering toolset developed by the Automation Systems Group at the University of Warwick. The work shows an “end-to-end” approach that practically demonstrates the application of the flexibility and reconfigurability paradigms within an industrial engineering context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Children may present with imaging findings of demyelination. • In our cohort, ⅓ had a clinical attack and ¾ developed new MRI activity. • Predictors for disease activity may include sex and juxtacortical lesion count. • T1 hypointense and infratentorial lesions may predict delayed progression. • Current MS and RIS diagnostic criteria may not be sufficient predictive tools. Limited data is available on children with evidence of silent central nervous system demyelination on MRI. We sought to characterize the population in a US cohort and identify predictors of clinical and radiologic outcomes. We identified 56 patients such patients who presented with incidental MRI findings suspect for demyelination, enrolled through our US Network of Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis Centers, and conducted a retrospective review of 38 patients with MR images, and examined risk factors for development of first clinical event or new MRI activity. MRI were rated based on published MS and radiologically isolated syndrome (RIS) imaging diagnostic criteria. One-third had a clinical attack and ¾ developed new MRI activity over a mean follow-up time of 3.7 years. Individuals in our cohort shared similar demographics to those with clinically definite pediatric-onset MS. We show that sex, presence of infratentorial lesions, T1 hypointense lesions, juxtacortical lesion count, and callosal lesions were predictors of disease progression. Interestingly, the presence of T1 hypointense and infratentorial lesions typically associated with worse outcomes were instead predictive of delayed disease progression on imaging in subgroup analysis. Additionally, currently utilized diagnostic criteria (both McDonald 2017 and RIS criteria) did not provide statistically significant benefit in risk stratification. Our findings underscore the need for further study to determine if criteria currently used for pediatric patients with purely radiographic evidence of demyelination are sufficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dendritic cells (DCs) are key players of the immune system and thus a target for immune evasion by pathogens. We recently showed that the virulence factor phenol-soluble modulin (PSM) produced by community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains induces tolerogenic DCs upon Toll-like receptor (TLR) 2 activation via the p38-CREB-IL-10 pathway. Here, we addressed the question whether this tolerogenic phenotype of DCs induced by PSMs is specific for TLR2 activation. Therefore, bone marrow-derived DCs were treated with various ligands for extracellular and intracellular TLRs simultaneously with PSMα3. We show that PSMα3 modulates antigen uptake, maturation and cytokine production of DCs activated by TLR1/2, TLR2/6, TLR4, TLR7, and TLR9. Pre-incubation of DCs with a p38 MAP kinase inhibitor prevented the PSMα3-induced IL-10 secretion, as well as MHC class II up-regulation upon TLR activation. In consequence, the tolerogenic DCs induced by PSMα3 in response to several TLR ligands promoted priming of regulatory T cells. Thus, PSMs could be useful as inducers of tolerogenic DCs upon TLR ligand stimulation for therapeutic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]