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Misrepresentation of peer behavior has often been observed in college students and may lead to over‐expression of alcohol consumption and under‐expression of studying. While social norm feedback approaches have had mixed success in addressing these misrepresentations and altering behavior, they may have been too unspecific to be effective and did not directly assess individual perception accuracy. We thus investigated how specific, one‐time feedback on the behavioral distribution of alcohol consumption or study time of a clearly defined, individually‐adjusted social circle would affect the respective norm estimations and behavior of a class of Psychology students (n = 89 in January) across their first year of study. Students overestimated alcohol consumption and partially underestimated studying norms. While social circle feedback on alcohol consumption did not clearly affect both individual estimation accuracy and alcohol consumption, feedback on peers' studying time increased studying with no clear effect on estimation accuracy. This indicates that social circle norm feedback may be suitable to evoke behavioral effects. The correction of the detected inaccuracies did not appear to be a precondition for the feedback to be effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Auditory sensitivity and frequency resolution depend on the optimal transfer of sound‐induced vibrations from the basilar membrane (BM) to the inner hair cells (IHCs), the principal auditory receptors. There remains a paucity of information on how this is accomplished along the frequency range in the human cochlea. Most of the current knowledge is derived either from animal experiments or human tissue processed after death, offering limited structural preservation and optical resolution. In our study, we analyzed the cytoarchitecture of the human cochlear partition at different frequency locations using high‐resolution microscopy of uniquely preserved normal human tissue. The results may have clinical implications and increase our understanding of how frequency‐dependent acoustic vibrations are carried to human IHCs. A 1‐micron‐thick plastic‐embedded section (mid‐modiolar) from a normal human cochlea uniquely preserved at lateral skull base surgery was analyzed using light and transmission electron microscopy (LM, TEM). Frequency locations were estimated using synchrotron radiation phase‐contrast imaging (SR‐PCI). Archival human tissue prepared for scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and super‐resolution structured illumination microscopy (SR‐SIM) were also used and compared in this study. Microscopy demonstrated great variations in the dimension and architecture of the human cochlear partition along the frequency range. Pillar cell geometry was closely regulated and depended on the reticular lamina slope and tympanic lip angle. A type II collagen‐expressing lamina extended medially from the tympanic lip under the inner sulcus, here named "accessory basilar membrane." It was linked to the tympanic lip and inner pillar foot, and it may contribute to the overall compliance of the cochlear partition. Based on the findings, we speculate on the remarkable microanatomic inflections and geometric relationships which relay different sound‐induced vibrations to the IHCs, including their relevance for the evolution of human speech reception and electric stimulation with auditory implants. The inner pillar transcellular microtubule/actin system's role of directly converting vibration energy to the IHC cuticular plate and ciliary bundle is highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Issue Addressed Methods Results So What? Health‐related information can often be overwhelming for consumers, frequently infused with complex medical terminology that is difficult to understand and apply. Historically empathic connection, art and narratives have played key roles in communicating with diverse populations however collectively have received little recognition as a modality to improve health literacy. This study aimed to investigate the empathetic connection between art and patient narratives with a view to improve health literacy in the wider community.Nine recently discharged patients and one carer from a regional hospital were paired with 10 tertiary visual arts students for interview. Each narrative was transformed into visual art and exhibited at a community art gallery. The Empathy Quotient (EQ), Medical Outcomes Study 36‐item Short Form Health Survey (SF‐36) and self‐completed questionnaires assessed empathy and functional well‐being. Health literacy was evaluated through community response surveys post‐exhibition exposure.Student artist participants' EQ Cognitive Empathy (EQ‐CE) scores were associated with ‘Emotional Reactivity’ (EQ‐ER) (p = .038). SF‐36 scores revealed that role limitations due to physical health and emotional problems had the greatest impact on patient/carer participant's life at the time. The SF‐36 General Health domain was associated with the EQ‐ER total score (p = .044). Exhibition surveys revealed that 96.9% of observers had learnt something new about illness or injury.Although a relatively small study, our findings suggest patient/carer narratives and visual art is a simple yet effective modality for health service organisations to facilitate affective learning and improve health literacy when engaging with consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two series with three Pt(II) complexes each (PtLPh‐n, PtLFpy‐n) bearing asymmetric tetradentate ligands as dianionic luminophores with variable alkyl chain lengths were synthesized. Hence, each ligand series is distinguished by one of its cyclometallating rings (phenyl vs. 2,6‐difluoropyrid‐3‐yl). Steady‐state and time‐resolved photoluminescence spectroscopic studies in diluted solutions at room temperature and in glassy matrices at 77 K show that the emissive state is mainly centered on the invariantly electron‐rich cyclometalated side while the second ring regulates the admixture of ligand‐centered and metal‐to‐ligand charge‐transfer character. Hence, the radiative rates can be controlled, as indicated by quantum‐mechanical calculations, which also explain the temperature‐dependent trend in the phosphorescence rate constants. Studies in condensed phases (single‐crystal X‐ray diffractometry, polarized optical microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, steady‐state and time‐resolved photoluminescence micro(spectro)scopy) showed the development of a smectic A mesophase for the fluorinated species bearing the two longest alkyl chains. Nuclear magnetic resonance‐based studies on the thermodynamics of aggregation in solution confirm the marked enthalpic stabilization of aggregates mediated by the polar 2,6‐difluoropyrid‐3‐yl moiety (and to a lesser extent by dispersive forces between the alkyl chains). On the other hand, the negative entropy of aggregation is dominated by the restriction of degrees of freedom involving the peripheral alkyl moieties upon stacking, which becomes increasingly relevant for longer chains. All these factors control Pt···Pt coupling, a crucial interaction for the design of photofunctional mesogens based on Pt(II) complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonlinear interferometers are a ubiquitous tool in quantum photonics. As such, they allow spooky‐like imaging with undetected light. On the one side their working principle is based on the principle of induced coherence, which is deeply rooted in the heart of quantum mechanics. On the other side, they bear the strong potential to serve as new tool for biomedical imaging. In this review, an extensive overview about nonlinear interferometers and their working principle is given. A particular focus is set on their exploitation for quantum imaging and sensing. In addition, related side topics and further application fields as well as perspectives are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Shared decision‐making (SDM) is a method of care by which patients and clinicians work together to co‐create a plan of care. Electronic health record (EHR) integration of SDM tools may increase adoption of SDM. We conducted a "lightweight" integration of a freely available electronic SDM tool, CV Prevention Choice, within the EHRs of three healthcare systems. Here, we report how the healthcare systems collaborated to achieve integration. Methods: This work was conducted as part of a stepped wedge randomized pragmatic trial. CV Prevention Choice was developed using guidelines for HTML5‐based web applications. Healthcare systems integrated the tool in their EHR using documentation the study team developed and refined with lessons learned after each system integrated the electronic SDM tool into their EHR. CV Prevention Choice integration populates the tool with individual patient data locally without sending protected health information between the EHR and the web. Data abstraction and secure transfer systems were developed to manage data collection to assess tool implementation and effectiveness outcomes. Results: Time to integrate CV Prevention Choice in the EHR was 12.1 weeks for the first system, 10.4 weeks for the second, and 9.7 weeks for the third. One system required two 1‐hour meetings with study team members and two healthcare systems required a single 1‐hour meeting. Healthcare system information technology teams collaborated by sharing information and offering improvements to documentation. Challenges included tracking CV Prevention Choice use for reporting and capture of combination medications. Data abstraction required refinements to address differences in how each healthcare system captured data elements. Conclusion: Targeted documentation on tool features and resource mapping supported collaboration of IT teams across healthcare systems, enabling them to integrate a web‐based SDM tool with little additional research team effort or oversight. Their collaboration helped overcome difficulties integrating the web application and address challenges to data harmonization for trial outcome analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: With disease‐modifying drugs in reach for cerebellar ataxias, fine‐grained digital health measures are highly warranted to complement clinical and patient‐reported outcome measures in upcoming treatment trials and treatment monitoring. These measures need to demonstrate sensitivity to capture change, in particular in the early stages of the disease. Objective: Our aim is to unravel gait measures sensitive to longitudinal change in the—particularly trial‐relevant—early stage of spinocerebellar ataxia type 2 (SCA2). Methods: We performed a multicenter longitudinal study with combined cross‐sectional and 1‐year interval longitudinal analysis in early‐stage SCA2 participants (n = 23, including nine pre‐ataxic expansion carriers; median, ATXN2 CAG repeat expansion 38 ± 2; median, Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia [SARA] score 4.8 ± 4.3). Gait was assessed using three wearable motion sensors during a 2‐minute walk, with analyses focused on gait measures of spatio‐temporal variability that have shown sensitivity to ataxia severity (eg, lateral step deviation). Results: We found significant changes for gait measures between baseline and 1‐year follow‐up with large effect sizes (lateral step deviation P = 0.0001, effect size rprb = 0.78), whereas the SARA score showed no change (P = 0.67). Sample size estimation indicates a required cohort size of n = 43 to detect a 50% reduction in natural progression. Test–retest reliability and minimal detectable change analysis confirm the accuracy of detecting 50% of the identified 1‐year change. Conclusions: Gait measures assessed by wearable sensors can capture natural progression in early‐stage SCA2 within just 1 year—in contrast to a clinical ataxia outcome. Lateral step deviation represents a promising outcome measure for upcoming multicenter interventional trials, particularly in the early stages of cerebellar ataxia. © 2024 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, methods for the fabrication of monolithic diamond integrated photonic devices via Faraday cage‐angled etching of functional epitaxial diamond layers are presented. Optimal waveguide width is determined via simulation and the fabrication of nitrogen vacancy (NV) center‐doped microring resonators is demonstrated. The performance of the devices is verified via microphotoluminescence as well as cathodoluminescence scans of the in‐grown NV centers, revealing clearly visible cavity lines. The scalable fabrication method allows for the realization of large numbers of lateral waveguide structures as needed for future applications in integrated quantum sensing devices as well as novel spin‐based quantum computers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wafer‐scale heteroepitaxial diamond thin films demonstrate multiple advantages for a further development of integrated optical and quantum devices based on impurity–vacancy color centers. The main obstacle here is a high structural defect density characteristic for heteroepitaxial epilayers. In this work, technological methods of stress control, NV formation, and defect density reduction in diamond epilayers, which are based on principles of epitaxial lateral overgrowth (ELO) are reported on. Herein, material and quantum properties of NV‐doped diamond thin films obtained by patterned nucleation growth and by ELO of microstructured epilayers, are compared. It is demonstrated that a combination of both methods might have a significant potential for the wafer‐scale production of heteroepitaxial diamond for quantum devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Nachrichten aus der Chemie is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In this study, we contrast how different benefit and harm information formats and the presence or absence of an ease‐of‐access nudge may facilitate COVID vaccination uptake for a sample of 620 unvaccinated Dutch adults at a timepoint when the vaccine had been widely available for more than a month. Using a 2 × 2 between‐subjects factorial design, we varied the information format on mRNA COVID vaccination statistics (generic text vs. facts box) and an affirmative nudge emphasizing the ease of making a vaccination appointment (absent vs. present). We assessed the acceptance of the vaccination information provided, perceptions on the vaccination, and whether participants directly visited a COVID vaccination appointment website. Whereas the facts box did not significantly affect participants' information acceptance, vaccination attitudes, intentions, and link clicking, the affirmative nudge alongside an online link systematically increased the likelihood of clicking on the link to make a vaccination appointment. A verbal nudge emphasizing the ease of vaccine accessibility is more likely to increase vaccination uptake in an unvaccinated population than informational campaigns on vaccine effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gegenstand der vorliegenden Untersuchungen ist die optische Unterscheidbarkeit verschiedener Ziegelarten mit Partikelgrößen < 8 mm, welche im Mauerwerkbruch enthalten sein können, mithilfe von Computer Vision und künstlicher Intelligenz. Dafür wurde ein Bilddatensatz von verschiedenen neuen und recycelten Ziegelarten mit Hilfe eines RGB‐Kamerabasierten Bilderfassungssystems erstellt. Die Bilddaten wurden nach entsprechender Vorverarbeitung hinsichtlich signifikanter Merkmale ausgewertet, um anschließend mit verschiedenen Klassifikationsmodellen des maschinellen Lernens eine optimale Erkennungsroutine ermitteln zu können. Die erzielten Erkennungsraten zeigen, dass sowohl die klassischen Klassifikatoren als auch ein Faltungsneuronales Netzwerk hervorragende Ergebnisse erzielen können. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Diurnal dark to light transition causes profound physiological changes in plant metabolism. These changes require distinct modes of regulation as a unique feature of photosynthetic lifestyle. The activities of several key metabolic enzymes are regulated by light‐dependent post‐translational modifications (PTM) and have been studied at depth at the level of individual proteins. In contrast, a global picture of the light‐dependent PTMome dynamics is lacking, leaving the response of a large proportion of cellular function undefined. Here, we investigated the light‐dependent metabolome and proteome changes in Arabidopsis rosettes in a time resolved manner to dissect their kinetic interplay, focusing on phosphorylation, lysine acetylation, and cysteine‐based redox switches. Of over 24 000 PTM sites that were detected, more than 1700 were changed during the transition from dark to light. While the first changes, as measured 5 min after onset of illumination, occurred mainly in the chloroplasts, PTM changes at proteins in other compartments coincided with the full activation of the Calvin–Benson cycle and the synthesis of sugars at later timepoints. Our data reveal connections between metabolism and PTM‐based regulation throughout the cell. The comprehensive multiome profiling analysis provides unique insight into the extent by which photosynthesis reprograms global cell function and adds a powerful resource for the dissection of diverse cellular processes in the context of photosynthetic function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glioblastoma (GBM) remains the most malignant primary brain tumor, with a median survival rarely exceeding 2 years. Tumor heterogeneity and an immunosuppressive microenvironment are key factors contributing to the poor response rates of current therapeutic approaches. GBM‐associated macrophages (GAMs) often exhibit immunosuppressive features that promote tumor progression. However, their dynamic interactions with GBM tumor cells remain poorly understood. Here, we used patient‐derived GBM stem cell cultures and combined single‐cell RNA sequencing of GAM‐GBM co‐cultures and real‐time in vivo monitoring of GAM‐GBM interactions in orthotopic zebrafish xenograft models to provide insight into the cellular, molecular, and spatial heterogeneity. Our analyses revealed substantial heterogeneity across GBM patients in GBM‐induced GAM polarization and the ability to attract and activate GAMs—features that correlated with patient survival. Differential gene expression analysis, immunohistochemistry on original tumor samples, and knock‐out experiments in zebrafish subsequently identified LGALS1 as a primary regulator of immunosuppression. Overall, our work highlights that GAM‐GBM interactions can be studied in a clinically relevant way using co‐cultures and avatar models, while offering new opportunities to identify promising immune‐modulating targets. Synopsis: scRNA‐seq and live‐imaging in zebrafish avatars were used to study the complex and dynamic interplay between GBM tumor cells and GAMs, and provide fresh perspectives and opportunities for discovering promising immune‐modulating targets in GBM. GBM tumor cells display heterogeneity in GAM recruitment and activation.GAMs shift toward an immunosuppressive state, with the degree of GBM‐induced GAM polarization varying significantly across GBM patients.GAM activation and polarization correlate with clinical outcome in GBM patients.LGALS1 plays a crucial role in regulating immunosuppression and affects tumor growth.Tumors that no longer express LGALS1 exhibit a less invasive phenotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Misinformation is a crucial problem, particularly online, and the success of debunking messages has so far been limited. In this study, we experimentally test how debunking text structure (truth sandwich vs. bottom‐heavy) and headline format (statement vs. questions) affect the belief in misinformation across topics of the safety of COVID vaccines and GMO foods. Design: Experimental online study. Methods: A representative German sample of 4906 participants were randomly assigned to reading one of eight debunking messages in the experimentally varied formats and subsequently rated the acceptance of this message and the agreement to misinformation statements about the mentioned topics and an unrefuted control myth. Results: While the debunking messages specifically decreased the belief in the targeted myth, these beliefs and the acceptance of the debunking message were unaffected by the text structures and headline formats. Yet, they were less successful when addressing individuals with strong pre‐existing, incongruent attitudes and distrust in science. Conclusions: The risk of backfire effects in debunking misinformation is low. Text structure and headline format are of relatively little importance for the effectiveness of debunking messages. Instead, writers may need to pay attention to the text being comprehensive, trustworthy and persuasive to maximize effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thirteen black agouti (Dasyprocta fuliginosa) male fetuses, acquired in two areas of the Amazon Forest, were used for the purpose of morphologically describing the fetal male urogenital organs with a focus on addressing histological and macroscopic aspects. The organs of interest were dissected and photographed in situ and ex situ. Fragments were collected and subjected to routine histological processing for inclusion in paraffin, which was cut and stained by haematoxylin and eosin and Gomori's Trichrome methods and subsequently analysed in a light microscope. The results showed that the urinary tract is like that of domestic animals and is composed of smooth unilobed kidneys covered by a dense capsule of connective tissue and divided into two well‐defined regions, cortical and medullary. Ureters, urethra and urinary bladder also showed macroscopic and microscopic characteristics similar to those of domestic animals. The penis of these animals has fibroelastic characteristics, with numerous keratinized structures at its apex. In the middle third of the penis, a "U" shaped penile flexure was seen; the glans penis is covered by a keratinized epidermis containing horny spicules. The presence of a penile bone in an endochondral ossification process was observed, being more developed in gestational ages greater than 76 days. The annex glands were not observed, probably because they were fetuses; only the ampulla of the ductus deferens was identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In NMR spectroscopy, residual dipolar couplings (RDCs) have emerged as one of the most exquisite probes of biological structure and dynamics. The measurement of RDCs relies on the partial alignment of the molecule of interest, for example by using a liquid crystal as a solvent. Here, we establish bacterial type 1 pili as an alternative liquid‐crystalline alignment medium for the measurement of RDCs. To achieve alignment at pilus concentrations that allow for efficient NMR sample preparation, we elongated wild‐type pili by recombinant overproduction of the main structural pilus subunit. Building on the extraordinary stability of type 1 pili against spontaneous dissociation and unfolding, we show that the medium is compatible with challenging experimental conditions such as high temperature, the presence of detergents, organic solvents or very acidic pH, setting it apart from most established alignment media. Using human ubiquitin, HIV‐1 TAR RNA and camphor as spectroscopic probes, we demonstrate the applicability of the medium for the determination of RDCs of proteins, nucleic acids and small molecules. Our results show that type 1 pili represent a very useful alternative to existing alignment media and may readily assist the characterization of molecular structure and dynamics by NMR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new method is presented to efficiently estimate daily groundwater level time series at unmonitored sites by linking groundwater dynamics to local hydrogeological system controls. The proposed approach is based on the concept of comparative regional analysis, an approach widely used in surface water hydrology, but uncommon in hydrogeology. Using physiographic and climatic site descriptors, the method utilizes regression analysis to estimate cumulative frequency distributions of groundwater levels (groundwater head duration curves, HDC) at unmonitored locations. The HDC is then used to construct a groundwater hydrograph using time series from distance‐weighted neighboring monitored (donor) locations. For estimating times series at unmonitored sites, in essence, spatio‐temporal interpolation, stepwise multiple linear regression (MLR), extreme gradient boosting (XGB), and nearest neighbors are compared. The methods were applied to 10‐year daily groundwater level time series at 157 sites in unconfined alluvial aquifers in Southern Germany. Models of HDCs were physically plausible and showed that physiographic and climatic controls on groundwater level fluctuations are nonlinear and dynamic, varying in significance from "wet" to "dry" aquifer conditions. XGB yielded a significantly higher predictive skill than nearest neighbor and MLR. However, donor site selection is of key importance. The study presents a novel approach for regionalization and infilling of groundwater level time series that also aids conceptual understanding of controls on groundwater dynamics, both central tasks for water resources managers. Key Points: Daily groundwater levels at unmonitored sites are estimated through transfer of head duration curves based on the similarity of site characteristics at monitored sitesNonlinearity of controls on groundwater levels favors using of Machine Learning (e.g., regression trees) over multiple linear regression for predictionThe dynamic nature of controls on groundwater levels can be disentangled, which is central for studies of recharge seasonality, droughts, and floods [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Accuracy of clinical diagnosis in neurodegenerative diseases is critically important for patient care and study recruitment. We aimed to investigate the precision of clinical diagnosis of various neurodegenerative conditions using neuropathological diagnosis for reference. Method: All 1310 autopsy cases between 1993 and 2017 from the Neurobiobank München (Munich, Germany) were screened for neurodegenerative diagnoses. Neuropathological diagnoses that occurred in at least five cases were included in the study. Real world clinical diagnoses were extracted from medical records of admitting hospitals in Germany and correlated with neuropathological diagnoses. Sensitivity, specificity and accuracy (using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and area under the curve (AUC) analysis) of clinical diagnoses were calculated. Result: The study included 455 cases with neuropathologically diagnosed Alzheimer's disease (AD, n = 132), argyrophilic grain disease (AGD, n = 6), corticobasal degeneration (CBD, n = 20), frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD, n = 47), Huntington's disease (HD, n = 22), Lewy body disease (LBD, n = 104), motor neuron disease (MND, n = 10), multiple system atrophy (MSA, n = 37) and progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP, n = 77). Clinical diagnoses in these cases comprised AD (n = 136), CBD (n = 17), Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease (CJD, n = 6), dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB, n = 11), frontotemporal dementia (FTD, n = 44), HD (n = 23), MND (n = 20), MSA (n = 36), Parkinson's disease (PD, n = 92), PSP (n = 60) and vascular dementia (VD, n = 10). Figure 1 illustrates the relationship between clinical (left) and neuropathological diagnoses (right). Figure 2 shows sensitivity, specificity, ROC curves, AUCs including standard errors (SE) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) and p‐values for testing the null hypothesis AUC = 0.5 for clinical diagnoses. Conclusion: Clinical diagnoses of neurodegenerative diseases exhibited a wide span of sensitivity depending on the particular disease (0‐100%) while specificity was high for all clinical diagnoses (89.5‐100%). Accuracy of clinical diagnoses as determined with AUC analysis was very good (AUC>0.9) for HD, MND and MSA, good (AUC = 0.8‐0.9) for AD, DLB/PD and PSP, moderate (AUC = 0.7‐0.8) for FTD, poor (AUC = 0.51‐0.7) for CBD and bad/no discrimination capacity (AUC = 0.5) for AGD. Based on these findings, an increase of sensitivity of clinical diagnoses may be key to improve correct identification of neurodegenerative diseases. This may be possible through development and clinical implementation of molecular biomarkers that are able to indicate the causal proteinopathies of neurodegenerative diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: 4D Flow MRI is a quantitative imaging technique to evaluate blood flow patterns; however, it is unclear how compressed sensing (CS) acceleration would impact aortic hemodynamic quantification in type B aortic dissection (TBAD). Purpose: To investigate CS‐accelerated 4D Flow MRI performance compared to GRAPP‐accelerated 4D Flow MRI (GRAPPA) to evaluate aortic hemodynamics in TBAD. Study Type: Prospective. Population: Twelve TBAD patients, two volunteers. Field Strength/Sequence: 1.5T, 3D time‐resolved cine phase‐contrast gradient echo sequence. Assessment: GRAPPA (acceleration factor [R] = 2) and two CS‐accelerated (R = 7.7 [CS7.7] and 10.2 [CS10.2]) 4D Flow MRI scans were acquired twice for interscan reproducibility assessment. Voxelwise kinetic energy (KE), peak velocity (PV), forward flow (FF), reverse flow (RF), and stasis were calculated. Plane‐based mid‐lumen flows were quantified. Imaging times were recorded. Tests: Repeated measures analysis of variance, Pearson correlation coefficients (r), intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). P < 0.05 indicated statistical significance. Results: The KE and FF in true lumen (TL) and PV in false lumen (FL) did not show difference among three acquisition types (P = 0.818, 0.065, 0.284 respectively). The PV and stasis in TL were higher, KE, FF, and RF in FL were lower, and stasis was higher in GRAPPA compared to CS7.7 and CS10.2. The RF was lower in GRAPPA compared to CS10.2. The correlation coefficients were strong in TL (r = [0.781–0.986]), and low to strong in FL (r = [0.347–0.948]). The ICC levels demonstrated moderate to excellent interscan reproducibility (0.732–0.989). The FF and net flow in mid‐descending aorta TL were significantly different between CS7.7 and CS10.2. Conclusion: CS‐accelerated 4D Flow MRI has potential for clinical utilization with shorter scan times in TBAD. Our results suggest similar hemodynamic trends between acceleration types, but CS‐acceleration impacts KE, FF, RF, and stasis more in FL. Evidence Level: 1 Technical Efficacy: Stage 2 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species often exhibit regionally specific habitat associations, so habitat association models developed in one region might not be accurate or even appropriate for other regions. Three programs to survey wetland‐breeding birds covering (respectively) Great Lakes coastal wetlands, inland Great Lakes wetlands, and the Prairie Pothole Region offer an opportunity to test whether regionally specific models of habitat use by wetland‐obligate breeding birds are transferrable across regions. We first developed independent, regional population density models for four species of wetland‐obligate birds: Pied‐billed Grebe (Podilymbus podiceps), Virginia Rail (Rallus limicola), Sora (Porzana carolina), and American Bittern (Botaurus lentiginosus). We then used adjusted pseudo‐R2 values to compare the amount of variation explained by each model when applied to data collected in each of the three regions. Although certain habitat characteristics, such as emergent vegetation and wetland area, were consistently important across regions, models for each species differed by region—both in variables selected for inclusion and often in the directionality of relationships for common variables—indicating that habitat associations for these species are regionally specific. When we applied a model developed in one region to data collected in another region, we found that explanatory power was reduced in most (71%) models. Therefore, we suggest that ecological analyses should emphasize regionally specific habitat association models whenever possible. Nonetheless, models created from inland Great Lakes wetland data had higher median explanatory power when applied to other regions, and the amount of explanatory power lost by other transferred models was relatively small. Thus, while regionally specific habitat association models are preferable, in the absence of reliable regional data, habitat association models developed in one region may be applied to another region, but the results need to be cautiously interpreted. Additionally, we found that median explanatory power was higher when local‐scale habitat characteristics were included in the models, indicating that regionally specific models should ideally be based on a combination of local‐ and landscape‐scale habitat characteristics. Conservation practitioners can leverage such regionally specific models and associated monitoring data to help prioritize areas for management activities that contribute to regional conservation efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Nachrichten aus der Chemie is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study aimed to investigate the influence of stroke lesions in predefined highly interconnected (rich‐club) brain regions on functional outcome post‐stroke, determine their spatial specificity and explore the effects of biological sex on their relevance. We analyzed MRI data recorded at index stroke and ~3‐months modified Rankin Scale (mRS) data from patients with acute ischemic stroke enrolled in the multisite MRI‐GENIE study. Spatially normalized structural stroke lesions were parcellated into 108 atlas‐defined bilateral (sub)cortical brain regions. Unfavorable outcome (mRS > 2) was modeled in a Bayesian logistic regression framework. Effects of individual brain regions were captured as two compound effects for (i) six bilateral rich club and (ii) all further non‐rich club regions. In spatial specificity analyses, we randomized the split into "rich club" and "non‐rich club" regions and compared the effect of the actual rich club regions to the distribution of effects from 1000 combinations of six random regions. In sex‐specific analyses, we introduced an additional hierarchical level in our model structure to compare male and female‐specific rich club effects. A total of 822 patients (age: 64.7[15.0], 39% women) were analyzed. Rich club regions had substantial relevance in explaining unfavorable functional outcome (mean of posterior distribution: 0.08, area under the curve: 0.8). In particular, the rich club‐combination had a higher relevance than 98.4% of random constellations. Rich club regions were substantially more important in explaining long‐term outcome in women than in men. All in all, lesions in rich club regions were associated with increased odds of unfavorable outcome. These effects were spatially specific and more pronounced in women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biological redox reactions often use a set‐up in which final redox partners are localized in different compartments and electron transfer (ET) among them is mediated by redox‐active molecules. In enzymes, these ET processes occur over nm distances, whereas multi‐protein filaments bridge μm ranges. Electrons are transported over cm ranges in cable bacteria, which are formed by thousands of cells. In this review, we describe molecular mechanisms that explain how respiration in a compartmentalized set‐up ensures redox homeostasis. We highlight mechanistic studies on ET through metal‐free peptides and proteins demonstrating that long‐distance ET is possible because amino acids Tyr, Trp, Phe, and Met can act as relay stations. This cuts one long ET into several short reaction steps. The chances and challenges of long‐distance ET for cellular redox reactions are then discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In hereditary spastic paraplegia type 4 (SPG4), subclinical gait changes might occur years before patients realize gait disturbances. The prodromal phase of neurodegenerative disease is of particular interest to halt disease progression by future interventions before impairment has manifested. Objective: The objective of this study was to identify specific movement abnormalities before the manifestation of gait impairment and quantify disease progression in the prodromal phase. Methods: Seventy subjects participated in gait assessment, including 30 prodromal SPAST pathogenic variant carriers, 17 patients with mild‐to‐moderate manifest SPG4, and 23 healthy control subjects. An infrared‐camera‐based motion capture system assessed gait to analyze features such as range of motion and continuous angle trajectories. Those features were correlated with disease severity as assessed by the Spastic Paraplegia Rating Scale, neurofilament light chain as a fluid biomarker indicating neurodegeneration, and motor‐evoked potentials. Results: Compared with healthy control subjects, we found an altered gait pattern in prodromal pathogenic variant carriers during the swing phase in the segmental angle of the foot (Dunn's post hoc test, q = 3.1) and heel ground clearance (q = 2.8). Furthermore, range of motion of segmental angle was reduced for the foot (q = 3.3). These changes occurred in prodromal pathogenic variant carriers without quantified leg spasticity in clinical examination. Gait features correlated with neurofilament light chain levels, central motor conduction times of motor‐evoked potentials, and Spastic Paraplegia Rating Scale score. Conclusions: Gait analysis can quantify changes in prodromal and mild‐to‐moderate manifest SPG4 patients. Thus, gait features constitute promising motor biomarkers characterizing the subclinical progression of spastic gait and might help to evaluate interventions in early disease stages. © 2022 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Flow quantification by phase‐contrast MRI is hampered by spatially varying background phase offsets. Correction performance by polynomial regression on stationary tissue may be affected by outliers such as wrap‐around or constant flow. Therefore, we propose an alternative, M‐estimate SAmple Consensus (MSAC) to reject outliers, and improve and fully automate background phase correction. Methods: The MSAC technique fits polynomials to randomly drawn small samples from the image. Over several trials, it aims to find the best consensus set of valid pixels by rejecting outliers to the fit and minimizing the residuals of the remaining pixels. The robustness of MSAC to its few parameters was investigated and verified using third‐order polynomial correction fits on a total of 118 2D flow (97 with wrap‐around) and 18 4D flow data sets (14 with wrap‐around), acquired at 1.5 T and 3 T. Background phase was compared with standard stationary correction and phantom correction. Pulmonary/systemic flow ratios in 2D flow were derived, and exemplary 4D flow analysis was performed. Results: The MSAC technique is robust over a range of parameter choices, and a unique set of parameters is suitable for both 2D and 4D flow. In 2D flow, phase errors were significantly reduced by MSAC compared with stationary correction (p = 0.005), and stationary correction shows larger errors in pulmonary/systemic flow ratios compared with MSAC. In 4D flow, MSAC shows similar performance as stationary correction. Conclusions: The MSAC method provides fully automated background phase correction to 2D and 4D flow data and shows improved robustness over stationary correction, especially with outliers present. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate hemodynamic markers obtained by accelerated GRAPPA (R = 2, 3, 4) and compressed sensing (R = 7.6) 4D flow MRI sequences under complex flow conditions. Methods: The accelerated 4D flow MRI scans were performed on a pulsatile flow phantom, along with a nonaccelerated fully sampled k‐space acquisition. Computational fluid dynamics simulations based on the experimentally measured flow fields were conducted for additional comparison. Voxel‐wise comparisons (Bland–Altman analysis, L2$$ {L}_2 $$‐norm metric), as well as nonderived quantities (velocity profiles, flow rates, and peak velocities), were used to compare the velocity fields obtained from the different modalities. Results: 4D flow acquisitions and computational fluid dynamics depicted similar hemodynamic patterns. Voxel‐wise comparisons between the MRI scans highlighted larger discrepancies at the voxels located near the phantom's boundary walls. A trend for all MR scans to overestimate velocity profiles and peak velocities as compared to computational fluid dynamics was noticed in regions associated with high velocity or acceleration. However, good agreement for the flow rates was observed, and eddy‐current correction appeared essential for consistency of the flow rates measurements with respect to the principle of mass conservation. Conclusion: GRAPPA (R = 2, 3) and highly accelerated compressed sensing showed good agreement with the fully sampled acquisition. Yet, all 4D flow MRI scans were hampered by artifacts inherent to the phase‐contrast acquisition procedure. Computational fluid dynamics simulations are an interesting tool to assess these differences but are sensitive to modeling parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most of our insights on whole‐plant transpiration (E) are based on leaf‐chamber measurements using water vapor porometers, IRGAs, or flux measurements. Gravimetric methods are integrative, accurate, and a clear differentiation between evaporation and E can be made. Water vapor pressure deficit (VPD) is the driving force for E but assessing its impact has been evasive, due to confounding effects of other climate drivers. We developed a chamber‐based gravimetric method, in which whole plant response of E to VPD could be assessed, while keeping other environmental parameters at predetermined values. Stable VPD values (0.5–3.7 kPa) were attained within 5 min after changing flow settings and maintained for at least 45 min. Species differing in life form and photosynthetic metabolism were used. Typical runs covering the range of VPDs lasted up to 4 h, preventing acclimation responses or soilborne water deficit. Species‐specific responses of E to VPD could be identified, as well as differences in leaf conductance. The combined gravimetric‐chamber‐based system presented overcomes several limitations of previous gravimetric set ups in terms of replicability, time, and elucidation of the impact of specific environmental drivers on E, filling a methodological gap and widening our phenotyping capabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vascular tumors and malformations present a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge to many physicians. Because these lesions are rare, few surgeons have enough experience with them other than those practicing in tertiary vascular anomaly treatment centers. Some patients may have been misdiagnosed or mistreated during childhood and present in adult age with either recurrence or with an untreated lesion. Ideally, a multidisciplinary treatment team should be involved to discuss management with the patient including specialists in surgery, interventional radiology, pathology, hematology, genetics, and dermatology. As our understanding of the pathogenesis of these lesions grows, novel therapies are being employed which may decrease the need for surgery. Nevertheless, some lesions need definitive treatment with surgery. Improving understanding of the surgical management of vascular anomalies will improve cosmetic and functional outcomes for patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Insect Allies program of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency has already sparked scientific debate concerning technology assessment‐related issues, among which the most prevalent is that of dual use. Apart from the issues concerning peaceful applications, the technology also provides the blueprint for a potential bioweapon. However, the combination of a virus‐induced genetic modification of crop plants in the field using genetically modified insect vectors poses a greater risk than the hitherto existing use of genetically modified organisms. The technology's great depth of intervention allows a number of sources for hazard and a tendency towards high exposure, but it is also encumbered with notable deficits in knowledge. These issues call for a thorough technology assessment. This article aims to provide an initial characterization from a technology assessment perspective, focusing on potential sources of risk for this novel invasive environmental biotechnology at an early stage of research and development. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2022;18:1488–1499. © 2022 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC). KEY POINTS: In comparison to the hitherto existing use of genetically modified organisms, the high depth of intervention of the Horizontal Environmental Genetic Alteration Agents (HEGAA) enables a number of sources for hazard and a tendency towards high exposure.At the current stage of development, the most critical aspect is the compromised reliability of the HEGAA approach, mainly due to its complex design with three different species.Although some alternative approaches are advantageous, it remains an open question whether modified HEGAA can become a manageable technology for rapid and large‐scale interventions for peaceful applications with acceptable risk potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) are a powerful tool for plant image analysis, but challenges remain in making them more accessible to researchers without a machine‐learning background. We present RootPainter, an open‐source graphical user interface based software tool for the rapid training of deep neural networks for use in biological image analysis.We evaluate RootPainter by training models for root length extraction from chicory (Cichorium intybus L.) roots in soil, biopore counting, and root nodule counting. We also compare dense annotations with corrective ones that are added during the training process based on the weaknesses of the current model.Five out of six times the models trained using RootPainter with corrective annotations created within 2 h produced measurements strongly correlating with manual measurements. Model accuracy had a significant correlation with annotation duration, indicating further improvements could be obtained with extended annotation.Our results show that a deep‐learning model can be trained to a high accuracy for the three respective datasets of varying target objects, background, and image quality with < 2 h of annotation time. They indicate that, when using RootPainter, for many datasets it is possible to annotate, train, and complete data processing within 1 d. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluates the influence of marine and freshwater conditions on the timing of river entry and upstream migration of sea trout (Salmo trutta) in the Grande River of Tierra del Fuego, Patagonia. We analysed the in‐river catch‐and‐release records from a group of fishing lodges that dominate the Grande River fishery during January–April 2008 (n = 5029 fish) as a function of environmental variables: tidal amplitude, stage in the lunar cycle, river discharge, and river water temperature along the homeward migration season. We discuss the value of the daily catch rate as an abundance index in the Grande river, then analyse the temporal structure of the tidal cycle in the Grande River estuary, a macro‐tidal environment with a mean tidal amplitude of 5.7 m, and analyse the fit of a generalized additive model to trout catches on a daily basis in four sections along the river to identify the environmental variables that may affect trout abundance throughout the homeward migration. Fish catches in each section of the river were differentially affected by specific environmental variables: tidal amplitude had a positive and significant effect on catches in the lower river sections, whereas water temperature and river discharge significantly affected catches in upper sections (positive effect of temperature; negative effect of discharge). Catches in the lower section clearly reflect the river entry stage of the homeward migration, with a bi‐modal shape significantly correlated with the tidal cycle. The first peak was composed mainly of larger multi‐sea‐winter trout that move upstream, whereas the second one had a wider range of fish lengths, including a large proportion of small and maybe nonreproductive trout that overwinter in the lower river. Based on our results, we conclude that the large tides in the Grande River estuary strongly affect the river entry timing of sea trout. The underlying mechanisms of this effect may be a combination of increased olfactory recognition and increased tidal transport modulated by the seasonal tidal cycle, which operates on trout during coastal migration to produce the pulses observed in the Grande River sea trout run. In the middle and upper sections of the river, where the tidal effect at river entry was dissipated as upstream migration progressed, trout catches increased with water temperature and decreased with river discharge, which may operate through their influence on in‐river migration rate and abundance, but also through changes in catchability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Time‐resolved three‐directional velocity‐encoded (4D flow) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) enables the quantification of left ventricular (LV) intracavitary fluid dynamics and energetics, providing mechanistic insight into LV dysfunctions. Before becoming a support to diagnosis and patient stratification, this analysis should prove capable of discriminating between clearly different LV derangements. Purpose: To investigate the potential of 4D flow in identifying fluid dynamic and energetics derangements in ischemic and restrictive LV cardiomyopathies. Study Type: Prospective observational study. Population: Ten patients with post‐ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM), 10 patients with cardiac light‐chain cardiac amyloidosis (AL‐CA), and 10 healthy controls were included. Field Strength/Sequence: 1.5 T/balanced steady‐state free precession cine and 4D flow sequences. Assessment: Flow was divided into four components: direct flow (DF), retained inflow, delayed ejection flow, and residual volume (RV). Demographics, LV morphology, flow components, global and regional energetics (volume‐normalized kinetic energy [KEV] and viscous energy loss [ELV]), and pressure‐derived hemodynamic force (HDF) were compared between the three groups. Statistical Tests: Intergroup differences in flow components were tested by one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA); differences in energetic variables and peak HDF were tested by two‐way ANOVA. A P‐value of <0.05 was considered significant. Results: ICM patients exhibited the following statistically significant alterations vs. controls: reduced KEV, mostly in the basal region, in systole (−44%) and in diastole (−37%); altered flow components, with reduced DF (−33%) and increased RV (+26%); and reduced basal–apical HDF component on average by 63% at peak systole. AL‐CA patients exhibited the following alterations vs. controls: significantly reduced KEV at the E‐wave peak in the basal segment (−34%); albeit nonstatistically significant, increased peaks and altered time‐course of the HDF basal–apical component in diastole and slightly reduced HDF components in systole. Data Conclusion: The analysis of multiple 4D flow‐derived parameters highlighted fluid dynamic alterations associated with systolic and diastolic dysfunctions in ICM and AL‐CA patients, respectively. Level of Evidence: 2 Technical Efficacy Stage: 3 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To identify the clinical characteristics of the subgroup of benign progressive supranuclear palsy with particularly long disease duration; to define neuropathological determinants underlying variability in disease duration in progressive supranuclear palsy.Methods: Clinical and pathological features were compared among 186 autopsy-confirmed cases with progressive supranuclear palsy with ≥10 years and shorter survival times.Results: The 45 cases (24.2%) had a disease duration of ≥10 years. The absence of ocular motor abnormalities within the first 3 years from disease onset was the only significant independent clinical predictor of longer survival. Histopathologically, the neurodegeneration parameters in each survival group were paralleled anatomically by the distribution of neuronal cytoplasmic inclusions, whereas the tufted astrocytes displayed anatomically an opposite severity pattern. Most interestingly, we found significantly less coiled bodies in those who survive longer, in contrast to patients with less favorable course.Interpretation: A considerable proportion of patients had a more "benign" disease course with ≥10 years survival. They had a distinct pattern and evolution of core symptoms compared to patients with short survival. The inverted anatomical patterns of astrocytic tau distribution suggest distinct implications of these cell types in trans-cellular propagation. The tempo of disease progression appeared to be determined mostly by oligodendroglial tau, where the high degree of oligodendroglial tau pathology might affect neuronal integrity and function on top of neuronal tau pathology. The relative contribution of glial tau should be further explored in cellular and animal models. ANN NEUROL 2022;92:637-649. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: We studied an aldehyde‐labeling reagent, N‐{2‐[(4‐aminophenoxy)methyl]benzyl}‐N,N‐diethylethanaminium bromide (CAX‐A), containing an aniline functional group for the detection of aldehydes with high specificity. Methods: Six standard aldehydes were labeled by CAX‐A and analyzed using LC‐ESI‐Orbitrap‐MS. The aldehydes (each 40 nmol) were derivatized with CAX‐A in the presence of sodium cyanoborohydride at room temperature overnight. The labeling reaction was applied to two urine samples for the detection of putative aldehydes. Results: All six standard CAX‐aldehyde derivatives were detected as precursor ions by dilution to 830 fmol/injection (signal‐to‐noise [S/N] ratio 587–1573). A total of 2184 MS1 features were detected overall in urine and blanks, of which 14 were putative aldehydes found only in urine. Conclusions: CAX‐A can provide three levels of specificity for aldehyde detection. First is the known labeling specificity of the aniline functional group for aldehydes, which we confirmed here by observing a significant peak only from the aldehyde (S/N = 3388) when a mixture of an aldehyde, a ketone (no peak), and a quinone (S/N = 2.3) was tested. Second is the ease of formation of an analyte‐characteristic first product ion (via anchimeric‐assisted loss of triethylamine as a neutral) in MS2 from a CAX‐labeled analyte. Third is the formation of a characteristic second product ion via loss of CO in MS3. CAX‐A enables the specific, convenient detection of putative aldehydes in urine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In the absence of lung biopsy, there are various algorithms for the diagnosis of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) in critically ill patients that rely on clinical signs, underlying conditions, radiological features and mycology. The aim of the present study was to compare four diagnostic algorithms in their ability to differentiate between probable IPA (i.e., requiring treatment) and colonisation. Methods: For this diagnostic accuracy study, we included a mixed ICU population with a positive Aspergillus culture from respiratory secretions and applied four different diagnostic algorithms to them. We compared agreement among the four algorithms. In a subgroup of patients with lung tissue histopathology available, we determined the sensitivity and specificity of the single algorithms. Results: A total number of 684 critically ill patients (69% medical/31% surgical) were included between 2005 and 2020. Overall, 79% (n = 543) of patients fulfilled the criteria for probable IPA according to at least one diagnostic algorithm. Only 4% of patients (n = 29) fulfilled the criteria for probable IPA according to all four algorithms. Agreement among the four diagnostic criteria was low (Cohen's kappa 0.07–0.29). From 85 patients with histopathological examination of lung tissue, 40% (n = 34) had confirmed IPA. The new EORTC/MSGERC ICU working group criteria had high specificity (0.59 [0.41–0.75]) and sensitivity (0.73 [0.59–0.85]). Conclusions: In a cohort of mixed ICU patients, the agreement among four algorithms for the diagnosis of IPA was low. Although improved by the latest diagnostic criteria, the discrimination of invasive fungal infection from Aspergillus colonisation in critically ill patients remains challenging and requires further optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A transfection vector that can home in on tumors is reported. Whereas previous vectors that allow moderately cell selective gene transfection used larger systems, this small‐molecule approach paved the way for precise structure‐activity relationship optimization. For this, biotin, which mediates cell selectivity, was combined with the potent DNA‐binding motif tetralysine‐guanidinocarbonypyrrol via a hydrophilic linker, thus enabling SAR‐based optimization. The new vector mediated biotin receptor (BR)‐selective transfection of cell lines with different BR expression levels. Computer‐based analyses of microscopy images revealed a preference of one order of magnitude for the BR‐positive cell lines over the BR‐negative controls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MCrAlY bond coats are widely used as oxidation‐resistant coatings on superalloys. The major phase is the thermally stable intermetallic β‐NiAl phase. The addition of Cr increases the oxidation and corrosion resistance but leads to the formation of α‐Cr precipitates. Both phases are brittle and limit the fracture toughness of these coatings. To study the influence of thermal exposure and the resulting changing chemical composition on the fracture properties, the fracture toughness of both phases is measured by notched microcantilever bending, after processing and after oxidation by thermal cycling. The fracture toughness of β‐NiAl decreases during thermal cycling due to the depletion in Al, whereas the fracture toughness and the composition of α‐Cr stay constant. As the fracture toughness of α‐Cr is lower compared with β‐NiAl, the formation of α‐Cr precipitates is supposed to decrease the fracture toughness of the bond coat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lastabtragende Klebungen sind in der Lage, Dauer‐, Kurzzeit‐ und Stoßbelastungen zu übertragen. Sie ermöglichen neue und innovative Konstruktionen. Aufgrund des Alterungsverhaltens der geklebten Verbindung sind jedoch Umwelteinflüsse bei der Bemessung zu berücksichtigen. Dieser Beitrag zeigt die Entwicklung eines neuartigen Aussteifungselements aus Glas mit Absturzsicherung, bei dem Klebungen einen maßgeblichen Beitrag zum Abtrag der unterschiedlich lang einwirkenden Lasten leisten. Teil der Entwicklung ist ein experimentelles Testprogramm sowie eine numerische Simulation mit Volumenelementen und Feder. Das Ergebnis ist ein einsatzbereites geklebtes Aussteifungselement und dessen Bemessungskonzept. Load‐bearing bonding for in‐plane loaded glass balustrades. Load‐bearing adhesives are capable of transmitting permanent, short‐term and impact loads. They enable new and innovative designs. However, due to the aging behaviour of the bonded joint, environmental influences have to be taken into account in the design. This article shows the development of a new type of stiffening balustrade which is in‐plane loaded and made of glass. Bonding makes a significant contribution to the transfer of loads acting over different periods of time. Part of the development is an experimental test program as well as a numerical simulation with solid elements and springs. The result is a ready‐to‐use bonded stiffening element and its design concept. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Clinical and regulatory acceptance of upcoming molecular treatments in degenerative ataxias might greatly benefit from ecologically valid endpoints that capture change in ataxia severity in patients' real life. Objectives: This longitudinal study aimed to unravel quantitative motor biomarkers in degenerative ataxias in real‐life turning movements that are sensitive for changes both longitudinally and at the preataxic stage. Methods: Combined cross‐sectional (n = 30) and longitudinal (n = 14, 1‐year interval) observational study in degenerative cerebellar disease (including eight preataxic mutation carriers) compared to 23 healthy controls. Turning movements were assessed by three body‐worn inertial sensors in three conditions: (1) instructed laboratory assessment, (2) supervised free walking, and (3) unsupervised real‐life movements. Results: Measures that quantified dynamic balance during turning—lateral velocity change (LVC) and outward acceleration—but not general turning measures such as speed, allowed differentiating ataxic against healthy subjects in real life (effect size δ = 0.68), with LVC also differentiating preataxic against healthy subjects (δ = 0.53). LVC was highly correlated with clinical ataxia severity (scale for the assessment and rating of ataxia [SARA] score, effect size ρ = 0.79) and patient reported balance confidence (activity‐specific balance confidence scale [ABC] score, ρ = 0.66). Moreover, LVC in real life—but not general turning measures or the SARA score—allowed detecting significant longitudinal change in 1‐year follow‐up with high effect size (rprb = 0.66). Conclusions: Measures of turning allow capturing specific changes of dynamic balance in degenerative ataxia in real life, with high sensitivity to longitudinal differences in ataxia severity and to the preataxic stage. They thus present promising ecologically valid motor biomarkers, even in the highly treatment‐relevant early stages of degenerative cerebellar disease. © 2022 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paw pads are specializations of the integument and important shock absorbers of the locomotor system, as well as pressure, pain, temperature, storage and excretion sensors. Aiming to describe the paw pad morphology of the main arboreal xenarthras species in the Amazon, 16 animals were studied, Bradypus variegatus (6), Choloepus didactylus (5), Tamandua tetradactyla (3) and Cyclopes didactylus (2) that after death were donated to the Animal Morphological Research Laboratory (LaPMA / Ufra). The corpses were thawed and fixed with 10% aqueous formalin solution. The paw pads were measured, photographed and removed by skin incision dorsally to them. Fragments were used for routine histological processing, using two staining techniques: Hematoxylin‐Eosin (HE) and Gomori's Trichrome, in sections of 6 to 8 µm. Choloepus didactylus, Tamandua tetradactyla and Cyclopes didactylus have digital paw pads, one in each digit, and one palm, as well as a plantar, whose shapes and colours are distinct from each other. Bradypus variegatus, however, has only one palmar and one plantar pad. Histologically, they have keratinized stratified squamous epithelium, supported by a large amount of collagen fibres and fibroblast cords in the dermis and hypodermis. Groups of eccrine sweat glands were observed in the reticular dermis of C. didactylus, B. variegatus, T. tetradactyla and only in the hypodermis of Cyclopes didactylus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eira barbara, popularly known as irara, is a medium‐sized carnivore member of the Mustelidae family. Despite its important role in the ecosystems in which its lives, data on the internal morphology of E. barbara remains scarce. Therefore, this study aimed to provide knowledge regarding the anatomy of the male reproductive system of this species to improve understanding of its reproduction to inform its conservation. We studied seven specimens who had died after being run over. The specimens were dissected for the evaluation of the reproductive system, which comprised a globular scrotum; a small pendulum covered with light‐coloured hair; a pair of testicles of firm consistency and ellipsoid shape and suspended in the scrotum by the spermatic cord; a paired duct system; an ampoule of the deferens duct and prostate constituting the set of attached glands; a urethra divided into pelvic and penile portions; a penis with a baculum having a novel "C" shaped apex; and a prepuce. Microscopically, the testicular parenchyma consisted of seminiferous tubules separated by intertubular spaces formed by loose connective tissue, fibrocytes, Leydig cells, and blood and lymph vessels. The epididymis was surrounded by a capsule of dense connective tissue and extended to form septa. The baculum was microscopically classified as a compact bone containing several bony lamellae with osteocytes and osteoblasts. The macro and microscopic findings were generally similar to those of domestic carnivores, with some notable differences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Diisocyanates are well‐recognized to cause occupational asthma, yet diisocyanate asthma can be challenging to diagnose and differentiate from asthma induced by other allergens. The present study assesses the potential contribution of methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) to a workplace fatality. Examination of medical records, tissue, and blood from the deceased worker were undertaken. Formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded lung tissue sections were assessed through histologic and immunochemical stains. Serum MDI‐specific IgE and IgG, and total IgE, were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays and/or Western blot. Information about potential chemical exposures and industrial processes in the workplace were provided by the employer and through interviews with co‐workers. Review of the worker's medical records, occupational history, and autopsy findings were consistent with severe asthma as the cause of death, and ruled out cardiac disease, pulmonary embolism, or stroke. Lung pathology revealed hallmarks of asthma including smooth muscle hypertrophy, eosinophilia, basement membrane thickening, and mucus plugging of bronchioles. Immunochemical staining for MDI was positive in the thickened basement membrane of inflamed airways. MDI‐specific serum IgE and IgG were significantly elevated and demonstrated specificity for MDI versus other diisocyanates, however, total serum IgE was normal (24 IU/ml). The workplace had recently introduced MDI into the foundry as part of a new process, but MDI air levels had not been measured. Respirators were not required. In summary, post‐mortem findings support the diagnosis of diisocyanate asthma and a severe asthma attack at work as the cause of death in a foundry worker. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Für die Bemessung realer Spannungszustände in Klebfugen sind numerische Modelle unabdingbar, welche für zwei Silikone in diesem Artikel vorgestellt werden. Dazu werden deren mechanische Eigenschaften durch eindeutige Belastungszustände in Versuchen unter Nutzung zweier optischer Messmethoden bestimmt. Über eine multi‐experimentelle Parameteridentifikation werden anschließend numerische Kennwerte für geläufige lineare und nichtlineare Modelle über diverse Dehnungsbereiche identifiziert. Eine Bewertung erfolgt im Vergleich der numerischen und experimentellen Ergebnisse eines in‐Situ‐Prüfkörpers. Diese hebt hervor, dass die Wahl der hyperelastischen Modelle, sowie das Identifikationsverfahren die Brauchbarkeit der Modelle bestimmen. Experimental determination of mechanical properties and numerical modelling of structural silicone. Numerical models are indispensable for the design of realistic stress conditions in adhesive joints, which will be presented for two silicones in this article. For this purpose, their mechanical properties are determined by unique loading conditions in tests using optical measurement methods. Numerical parameters for common linear and nonlinear models over various strain ranges are then identified via multi‐experimental parameter identification. Evaluation is performed by comparing the numerical and experimental results of an in‐situ test specimen, which highlight that the choice of hyperelastic models and the identification procedure determine the usability of the models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For investigations on a two‐stage multicomponent injection molding process adhesion‐modified polyamide 6 and EPDM with sulfur‐curing system are used. The influence of different process temperatures is investigated on the basis of a DoE test plan with 15 factor level combinations. Within the scope of additional, more in‐depth investigations, special focus was given to the preheating temperature of the thermoplastic insert. In addition to the experimental work, results from simulations are used to assess the influencing factors. This approach allows a more precise description of the influence of temperature equilibration processes on the crosslinking reaction, especially near the interface between the two components. It is shown that the preheating temperature of the hard component (thermoplastic) in particular has a significant influence on the time course of the crosslinking reaction and ultimately on adhesion to the thermoplastic substrate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Plants need to rapidly and flexibly adjust their metabolism to changes of their immediate environment. Since this necessity results from the sessile lifestyle of land plants, key mechanisms for orchestrating central metabolic acclimation are likely to have evolved early. Here, we explore the role of lysine acetylation as a post‐translational modification to directly modulate metabolic function. We generated a lysine acetylome of the moss Physcomitrium patens and identified 638 lysine acetylation sites, mostly found in mitochondrial and plastidial proteins. A comparison with available angiosperm data pinpointed lysine acetylation as a conserved regulatory strategy in land plants. Focusing on mitochondrial central metabolism, we functionally analyzed acetylation of mitochondrial malate dehydrogenase (mMDH), which acts as a hub of plant metabolic flexibility. In P. patens mMDH1, we detected a single acetylated lysine located next to one of the four acetylation sites detected in Arabidopsis thaliana mMDH1. We assessed the kinetic behavior of recombinant A. thaliana and P. patens mMDH1 with site‐specifically incorporated acetyl‐lysines. Acetylation of A. thaliana mMDH1 at K169, K170, and K334 decreases its oxaloacetate reduction activity, while acetylation of P. patens mMDH1 at K172 increases this activity. We found modulation of the malate oxidation activity only in A. thaliana mMDH1, where acetylation of K334 strongly activated it. Comparative homology modeling of MDH proteins revealed that evolutionarily conserved lysines serve as hotspots of acetylation. Our combined analyses indicate lysine acetylation as a common strategy to fine‐tune the activity of central metabolic enzymes with likely impact on plant acclimation capacity. Significance Statement: We explore the role of lysine acetylation as a mechanism to directly modulate mitochondrial metabolism in land plants by generating the lysine acetylome of the moss Physcomitrium patens and comparing it with available angiosperm data. We found acetylation of evolutionarily conserved lysines as a strategy to fine‐tune the activity of mitochondrial malate dehydrogenase in a species‐dependent molecular context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: Knowledge about the seizure prevalence in the whole symptomatic course, from disease onset to death, in neurodegenerative diseases (ND) is lacking. Therefore, the aim was to investigate seizure prevalence and associated clinical implications in neuropathologically diagnosed ND. Methods: Clinical records of cases from the Neurobiobank Munich, Germany, were analyzed. Neuropathological diagnoses of the assessed cases included Alzheimer disease (AD), corticobasal degeneration (CBD), frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD), Lewy body disease (LBD), multiple system atrophy (MSA) and progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP). Seizure prevalence during the whole symptomatic disease phase was assessed and compared amongst ND. Associations between first clinical symptom and seizure prevalence and between seizures and disease duration were examined. Results: In all, 454 patients with neuropathologically diagnosed ND and with available and meaningful clinical records were investigated (AD, n = 144; LBD, n = 103; PSP, n = 93; FTLD, n = 53; MSA, n = 36; CBD, n = 25). Seizure prevalence was 31.3% for AD, 20.0% for CBD, 12.6% for LBD, 11.3% for FTLD, 8.3% for MSA and 7.5% for PSP. Seizure prevalence was significantly higher in AD compared to FTLD (p = 0.005), LBD (p = 0.001), MSA (p = 0.005) and PSP (p < 0.001). No other significant differences regarding seizure prevalence were found between the studied ND. Cognitive first symptoms in ND were associated with an increased seizure prevalence (21.1% vs. 11.0% in patients without cognitive first symptoms) and motor first symptoms with a decreased seizure prevalence (10.3% vs. 20.5% in patients without motor first symptoms). Seizures were associated with a longer disease duration in MSA (12.3 vs. 7.0 years in patients without seizures; p = 0.017). Conclusions: Seizures are a clinically relevant comorbidity in ND, particularly in AD. Knowledge of the first clinical symptom in ND may allow for estimation of seizure risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]