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Abstract Background In order to successfully perform orthodontic mini-implant procedures successfully for the subsequent anchoring of orthodontic appliances, it is crucial to know the palatal bone thickness. This is usually assessed using two-dimensional radiographs. The purpose of this study was to use a three-dimensional digital imaging measurement method to provide information on palatal bone volume and bone thickness and to make recommendations on the optimal and safe insertion site and angle for palatal mini-implants. Methods For this observational, cross-section study, pre-existing cone beam computed tomography scans of 184 patients were converted into 3D Standard Tessellation Language (STL) models of the maxilla. The area between the canine and the first molar was divided into 6 regions of interest (ROIs), three on the left side of the palate and three on the right side. The bone thickness of the palate was analyzed volumetrically and linearly while simulating different mini-implant insertion angles of 0°, 10°, 20° and 30° degrees relative to the palatal surface. Results Among the ROIs, the greatest mean bone thickness was observed in the region of the first premolars with a mean distance (MD) of 10.44 ± 2.53 mm and decreased from anterior to posterior (MD: 3.44 ± 1.16 mm). The highest volume (Vol) values were also measured in the anterior palatal region (Vol: 1127.26 ± 483.91 mm3), while there was also a decrease in the posterior region (Vol: 394.36 ± 180.22 mm3). Regarding the simulated palatal mini-implant insertion sites, the greatest bone thickness was found in the anterior region, at the level of the canines with an angle of 0° (MD: 12.25 ± 3.75 mm). In the more posterior region, at the level between the first and second premolars, the greatest bone thickness was observed at an angle of 30° (MD: 7.93 ± 3.81 mm). Gender differences were found. Conclusion This clinical study showed that the paramedian region at the level of the first premolar is the safest site for orthodontic mini-implant placement as evaluated by three-dimensional measurements. The results showed that implant insertion angle, gender and age are important aspects to consider when planning and inserting orthodontic palatal mini-implants. Trial registration N.a.

A standardised monitoring is indispensable to identify trends of insect populations. However, until recently, a systematic monitoring of insects in Germany was missing. Therefore, the German federal ministry for the environment funded the conceptualisation of an insect monitoring scheme.Here, we inform about the general concept and structure of the German insect monitoring scheme (GIMS) and the steps taken and still to be taken for the implementation of the scheme. A first step was the development of the objectives, general concept und structure of the GIMS in close collaboration with the nature conservation authorities at the national and federal state levels, as the latter are responsible for the implementation of nature conservation-related monitoring schemes. The GIMS is structured into two sections: section 1 ‘Monitoring of common insects’ and section 2 ‘Monitoring of rare insects’. Both sections contain modules that focus on selected aspects of insect diversity. In section 1, insect communities of the wider countryside will be monitored. Section 2 focuses on insect communities in rare habitats and species of high conservation value (e.g. threatened species). The next step was to develop standardised sampling methods for the modules in collaboration with experts and the nature conservation authorities. Wherever appropriate, synergies with other monitoring schemes were created, e.g. for combined analyses with environmental variables.Parallel to the development of the concept, several federal states have already implemented selected modules of the GIMS. Furthermore, the module ‘Grasshoppers in grasslands’ was tested during a pilot phase. By using the data from the pilot phase and the High Nature Value Farmland Monitoring scheme the relationship between high nature value farmland and grasshopper diversity was evaluated. This indicated the great potential of using synergies among monitoring schemes for joint data analyses and showed that it is worth exploring such approaches in greater depth.

Abstract Introduction The relationship between posture and temporomandibular disease (TMD) is unclear. The aim of our study was to determine the influence of manual therapy (MT) on posture in TMD patients compared with healthy subjects. Material/method After consideration of inclusion and exclusion criteria, 30 subjects were included. These were divided into two groups: group A comprised 15 healthy subjects and group B 15 patients with present proven TMD disease. Rasterstereographic images were taken at different times. Group A subjects were scanned twice within half a year and group B before initiation as well as after the first MT and after completion of the prescribed MT. The different posture variables were calculated using DIERS Formetric software. Results To illustrate the differences between the two groups, 10 different postural variables were examined. Significant differences between the two groups were observed in pelvic tilt, surface rotation, and kyphotic apex. Pelvic tilt: mean = 7.581, p-value = 0.029; surface rotation: mean = 3.098, p = 0.049; and mean kyphotic apex = 11.538 and 11.946, respectively, with p-values of 0.037 and 0.029, respectively. Conclusion MT leads to a change in posture in TMD patients. This could influence the course of TMD treatment.

Abstract Background Pathological complete response (pCR) is a well-established prognostic factor in breast cancer treated with neoadjuvant systemic therapy (naST). The determining factors of pCR are known to be intrinsic subtype, proliferation index, grading, clinical tumor and nodal stage as well as type of systemic therapy. The addition of neoadjuvant radiotherapy (naRT) to this paradigm might improve response, freedom from disease, toxicity and cosmetic outcome compared to adjuvant radiotherapy. The factors for pCR and primary tumor regression when neoadjuvant radiation therapy is added to chemotherapy have not been thoroughly described. Methods We performed a retrospective analysis of 341 patients (cT1-cT4/cN0-N+) treated with naRT and naST between 1990 and 2003. Patients underwent naRT to the breast and mostly to the supra-/infraclavicular lymph nodes combined with an electron or brachytherapy boost. NaST was given either sequentially or simultaneously to naRT using different regimens. We used the univariate and multivariate regression analysis to estimate the effect of different subgroups and treatment modalities on pCR (ypT0/Tis and ypN0) as well as complete primary tumor response (ypT0/Tis; bpCR) in our cohort. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to evaluate the interval between radiotherapy (RT) and resection (Rx) as well as radiotherapy dose. Results Out of 341 patients, pCR and pbCR were achieved in 31% and 39%, respectively. pCR rate was influenced by resection type, breast cancer subtype, primary tumor stage and interval from radiation to surgery in the multivariate analysis. Univariate analysis of bpCR showed age, resection type, breast cancer subtype, clinical tumor stage and grading as significant factors. Resection type, subtype and clinical tumor stage remained significant in multivariate analysis. Radiation dose to the tumor and interval from radiation to surgery were not significant factors for pCR. However, when treatment factors were added to the model, a longer interval from radiotherapy to resection was a significant predictor for pCR. Conclusions The factors associated with pCR following naST and naRT are similar to known factors after naST alone. Longer interval to surgery might to be associated with higher pCR rates. Dose escalation beyond 60 Gy did not result in higher response rates.

Background: Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a highly prevalent disease. We aimed to assess the symptoms that physicians who see patients with AR perceive as the most bothersome in their patients. Methods: We performed a cross-sectional study based on an online questionnaire sent to all members of the Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma (ARIA) initiative. The survey included questions on the physicians' perceptions of patients’ AR symptoms as well as of their own AR symptoms. Results: Among 401 respondents, 155 (38.7%) reported having AR. ARIA members reported nasal symptoms to be the most frequent (89.7%) and bothersome (80.0%) symptoms experienced by themselves. Likewise, nasal symptoms were reported by ARIA members as the most frequent (94.8% in members with AR vs 96.0% in members without AR) and bothersome (57.0% in members with AR vs 67.9% in members without AR) in their patients. We found a significant association (p = 0.001) between physicians’ own symptoms and those perceived as the most bothersome in their patients. Conclusion: Physicians perceive nasal symptoms to be the most frequent and the most bothersome symptoms in AR patients. The physicians' personal experiences with AR may influence their perception of patients’ symptoms.

Purpose: This study addresses the complex risks of implementing prescriptive analytics in vineyard management. It focusses on integrating diverse, previously isolated data resources into operational decisions in irrigation, nutrition and pest management. Aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this integration is crucial for optimising vineyard growth and production, and advancing precision agriculture techniques within the framework of sustainable agriculture. In this context, it introduces a Control Risk Template (CRT) to manage these risks effectively. Design/methodology/approach: The study uses an exploratory research design and grounded theory methodology to conduct a comprehensive systematic literature review. Findings/results: The findings demonstrate how the CRT can effectively identify, assess and manage the risks of deploying prescriptive analytics in vineyard management. This approach minimises risks and significantly improves decision-making and operational efficiencies in vineyard management, contributing to the advancement of sustainable agricultural practices. Practical implications: This research offers valuable insights for vineyard managers and information technology (IT) governance leaders. It provides a robust model for enhancing vineyard management through advanced data-driven decisions. Implementing the CRT facilitates better resource allocation and improved crop health management, fostering a transition towards more sustainable agricultural practices. Originality/value: This research suggests a comprehensive approach to integrating IT governance with practical agricultural operations, significantly contributing to academic research and industry practices. Moreover, the study delivers essential insights into the effective integration of prescriptive analytics in vineyard management, underscoring the transformative potential of IT governance frameworks in enhancing the sustainability and efficiency of vineyard management.

Abstract Background Atherosclerosis and its secondary diseases display a major threat to patient’s health. Sequelae, like carotid artery calcification (CAC), usually develop over decades and remain asymptomatic for a long time, making preventive measures to reduce mortality and morbidity extremely important. Through panoramic radiography (PR) and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), dentists may have helpful tools in aiding the holistic care of patients. In this context, the correlation of atherosclerotic risk factors and CAC development have not yet been sufficiently investigated. Thus, the aim of this observational radiological study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of PR compared with CBCT for the detection of CAC in patients older than 60 years. The radiological findings were correlated with gender, age, and cardiac risk factors. Methods PRs and CBCTs of N = 607 patients were used for the qualitative analysis and compared. Basic patient information such as age, gender, body mass index (BMI), smoking history as well as patient’s detailed medical history, including heart disease and cardiovascular risk factors such as hypercholesterolemia, arterial hypertension and diabetes mellitus type II were documented and their relation to CAC provided by radiological data was estimated in the form of odds ratios (OR), which were calculated using logistic regression models. Proportions of CAC in different risk groups were compared using Fisher’s exact test, the significance level was set to α ≤ 0.05. The interrater reliability of two physicians was estimated using Cohen’s kappa. Results With an accuracy of 90.6%, a sensitivity of 67.5% and a specificity of 99.5% compared to CBCT, PR was a reliable method for the diagnosis of CAC. The overall detection rate for CAC was 27.8% across all age groups. Age (OR: 1.351; p = 0.021), the male sex (OR: 1.645; p = 0.006), arterial hypertension (OR: 2.217; p =

Abstract Background This longitudinal, multicenter web-based study explored the trajectories of depressive and anxiety symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic among physicians over two years. Methods At four measurement points between 4/2020 and 5/2022 depressive (Patient Health Questionnaire-2, PHQ-2) and anxiety symptoms (Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale-2, GAD-2) among physicians in German hospitals were assessed. Time, gender and age effects were analyzed with linear mixed regression models. Comparisons with norm values for the German population during the COVID-19 pandemic were also performed and frequencies of probable depression and anxiety are reported. Results The physicians (N = 340) showed a significant increase of depressive symptoms from T1 (M = 1.35, SD = 1.33) to T4 (M = 1.64, SD = 1.34) (p 50 years, p = .003). As compared to the general population, the physicians reported significantly elevated PHQ-2 (T1: M = 1.35, SD = 1.33; T2: M = 1.53, SD = 1.37; T3: M = 1.55, SD = 1.40; T4: M = 1.64, SD = 1.34) and GAD-2 scores (T1: M = 1.35, SD = 1.42; T2: M = 1.59, SD = 1.43; T3: M = 1.61, SD = 1.57; T4: M = 1.49, SD = 1.46) for all measurement points (all p

Background: Postoperative resorption of hard and soft tissues occurs as a consequence of tooth extraction. The Benex®-Control extractor allows minimally invasive extraction of the tooth without causing pronounced iatrogenic trauma. The aim of this study was to verify whether the resorption of the tissues after extraction can be reduced by using the Benex® system compared to the conventional extraction method. Methods: Postoperative intraoral scans were superimposed after surgery (t0), after 7 days (t1), after 14 days (t2), after 30 days (t3), after 60 days (t4), and after 90 days (t5) within the two groups (study n = 14, control n = 16), and defined regions of interest (ROIs) (1–8) and volume changes were analyzed. In addition, the influence of gingival thickness and the thickness of the labial cortical plate was investigated. Results: The greatest decrease in volume was observed in both groups in ROI3, although there was no significant difference observed between the groups. In the presence of an adjacent tooth, there was less volume loss in the affected ROIs (1, 2 and 7, 8). The thickness of the gingiva and the bony lamella did not significantly influence the change in volume. Conclusions: Due to the small cohort, the results are limited, and the hypothesis is rejected.

Abstract Meeting climate change mitigation targets by 2050, as outlined in international pledges, involves determining optimal strategies for forest management, wood supply, the substitution of greenhouse gas‐intensive materials and energy sources, and wood product disposal. Our study quantified the cumulative mitigation potential by 2050 of the forest sector in the province of Quebec, Canada, using several alternative strategies and assessed under what circumstances the sector could contribute to the targets. We used the Carbon Budget Model of the Canadian Forest Sector to project ecosystems emissions and sequestration of seven alternative and one baseline (business‐as‐usual [BaU]) forest management scenarios over the 2018–2050 period. Three baskets of wood products were used in a Harvested Wood Products model to predict wood product emissions. The mitigation potential was determined by comparing the cumulative CO2e budget of each alternative scenario to the BaU. The proportion of methane emissions from landfills (RCH4%) and the required displacement factor (RDF) to achieve mitigation benefits were assessed both independently and jointly. The fastest and most efficient way to improve mitigation outcomes of the forest sector of Quebec is to reduce end‐of‐life methane emissions from wood products. By reducing methane emissions, the RDF for achieving mitigation benefits through intensification strategies can be reduced from 1.2–2.3 to 0–0.9 tC/tC, thus reaching the current provincial mean DF threshold (0.9). Both a reduction and an increase in the harvested volume have the potential to provide mitigation benefits with adequate RCH4% and RDF. Increased carbon sequestration in ecosystems, innovations in long‐lived wood products, and optimal substitution in markets offer potential avenues for the forest sector to contribute to mitigation benefits but are subject to significant uncertainties. Methane emission reduction at the end of wood product service life is emerging as a valuable approach to enhance mitigation benefits of the forest sector.

Abstract Background Previous flatworm phylogenetic research has been carried out analysing 18S and 28S DNA markers. Through this methodology, Mariplanellinae subfamily has been recently re-classified as Mariplanellida status novus. This new classification implied that 3 genera belonged to Mariplanellida: Mariplanella, Lonchoplanella and Poseidoplanella. In this study, we aim to clarify some of the relationships within Rhabdocoela analysing 18S and 28S DNA markers of a total of 91 species through Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference methodologies. A total of 11 species and genera, including Lonchoplanella, from the island of Sylt are included and had not previously been involved in any molecular phylogenetic analyses. Results Our phylogenetic results support Mariplanellida as an independent group within Rhabdocoela and its status as an infraorder. Our study suggests that Lonchoplanella axi belongs to Mariplanellida. Within Rhabdocoela, Haloplanella longatuba is nested within Thalassotyphloplanida, instead of Limnotyphloplanida. Within Kalyptorhynchia, the taxon Eukalyptorhynchia turned out to be paraphyletic including members of Schizorhynchia. These results also support the position of the genus Toia separate from Cicerinidae. Conclusions Lonchoplanella axi belongs to Mariplanellida, whose status as infraorder is herein confirmed. The genus Toia belongs separate from Cicerinidae. Further research is needed to clarify the phylogenetic relationships of Hoploplanella. Most of the species, genera and families included in this study with more than one terminal are monophyletic and well supported. Adding gene markers and complementary morphological studies will help to clarify those relationships that remain uncertain.

Abstract Objective In dental restorations, color determination is very important for achieving esthetic results. The aim of this study was to compare visual shade selection using digital methods and to assess the repeatability of the utilized intraoral scanners. Materials and methods In 31 probands, tooth color was determined on teeth 11, 13, and 16. Shade selection was performed visually by a dentist and digitally using Trios 3 and Cerec Omnicam. Three measurements were performed to determine the repeatability of intraoral scanners. Fleiss' κ was used for statistical evaluation of the repeatability and Cohen's κ was used for comparison of methods. Results The visual method showed only slight agreement with Trios 3 (Cohen's κ: 0.198) and Cerec Omnicam (Cohen's κ: 0.115). Moderate agreement was found between Trios 3 and Cerec Omnicam (Cohen's κ: 0.452). In terms of repeatability, Trios 3 scored higher overall than Cerec Omnicam (Fleiss' κ: 0.612 vs. 0.474). Conclusion Intraoral scanners can facilitate the workflow in clinical practice. They are a good supplement for color determination, but should additionally be confirmed by the visual method. Clinical significance: The use of digital instruments is increasingly being preferred over conventional treatments. Therefore, it is essential to continuously improve the accuracy of intraoral scanners for color selection in order to offer an alternative to visual methods.

Maren-Jo Kater,1 Anika Werner,1 Angelika Anita Schlarb,2 Arnold Lohaus1 1Faculty of Psychology and Sports Science, Department of Developmental Psychology and Developmental Psychopathology, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, North Rhine Westphalia, Germany; 2Faculty of Psychology and Sports Science Clinical, Department of Psychology and Psychotherapy of Children and Adolescents, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, North Rhine Westphalia, GermanyCorrespondence: Maren-Jo Kater, Bielefeld University, Faculty of Psychology and Sports Science, Developmental Psychology and Developmental Psychopathology, P.O. Box 10 01 31, Bielefeld, 33501, Germany, Tel +49 0521 - 106 4461, Email maren-jo.kater@uni-bielefeld.dePurpose: The individual vulnerability for stress-related sleep difficulties (eg, sleep reactivity) is known as a predisposing factor of insomnia in adults, yet relatively little is known about sleep reactivity in adolescence. The study goal is to determine factors related to sleep reactivity and to investigate whether sleep reactivity and related factors predict current and new incidents of insomnia in adolescents.Patients and Methods: At baseline, 11-to-17-year-olds (N = 185, Mage = 14.3 years, SD = 1.8, 54% female) answered an age-appropriate version of the Ford Insomnia Response to Stress Test, questionnaires about sleep, stress, psychological symptoms, and resources, filled out a sleep diary and used actigraphy. Insomnia diagnoses according to ISCD-3 criteria were assessed at baseline, after 9 months and after one and a half years.Results: Adolescents with high compared to low sleep reactivity had increased pre-sleep arousal, negative sleep-related cognitions, pre-sleep mobile phone use, stress experience, stress vulnerability, internalizing and externalizing symptoms, less social resources, and a later midpoint of bedtime. High sleep reactivity increased the likelihood for currently having insomnia, but not for the development of insomnia at subsequent assessments.Conclusion: The findings suggest that high sleep reactivity is related to poor sleep health and mental health but cast doubt on sleep reactivity as a pivotal predisposing factor for the development of insomnia in adolescence.Keywords: sleep vulnerability, sleep disorder, mental health, stress, resources, youth

The implementation of CAD software in the digital production of implant prosthetics stands as a pivotal aspect of clinical dentistry, necessitating high precision in the alignment of implant scanbodies. This study investigates the influence of scanbody geometry and the method of superimposing in CAD software when determining 3D implant position. A standardized titanium model with three bone-level implants was digitized to create reference STL files, and 10 intraoral scans were performed on Medentika and NT-Trading scanbodies. To determine implant position, the generated STL files were imported into the Exocad CAD software and superimposed—automatically and manually—with the scanbody geometries stored within the software’s shape library. Position accuracy was determined by a comparison of the 3D-defined scanbody points from the STL matching files with those from the reference STL files. The R statistical software was used for the evaluation of the data. In addition, mixed linear models and a significance level of 0.05 were applied to calculate the p-values. The manual overlay method was significantly more accurate than the automatic overlays for both scanbody types. The Medentika scanbodies showed slightly superior precision compared to the NT-Trading scanbodies. Both scanbody geometry and the type of alignment in the CAD software significantly affect digital workflow accuracy. Manual verification and adjustment of the automatic alignment process are essential for precise implant positioning.

State and local governments are increasingly interested in understanding the role forests and harvested wood products play in regional carbon sinks and storage, their potential contributions to state-level greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions, and the interactions between GHG reduction goals and potential economic opportunities. We used empirically driven process-based forest carbon dynamics and harvested wood product models in a systems-based approach to project the carbon impacts of various forest management and wood utilization activities in Maryland and Pennsylvania from 2007 to 2100. To quantify state-wide forest carbon dynamics, we integrated forest inventory data, harvest and management activity data, and remotely-sensed metrics of land-use change and natural forest disturbances within a participatory modeling approach. We accounted for net GHG emissions across (1) forest ecosystems (2) harvested wood products, (3) substitution benefits from wood product utilization, and (4) leakage associated with reduced in-state harvesting activities. Based on state agency partner input, a total of 15 management scenarios were modeled for Maryland and 13 for Pennsylvania, along with two climate change impact scenarios and two bioenergy scenarios for each state. Our findings show that both strategic forest management and wood utilization can provide substantial climate change mitigation potential relative to business-as-usual practices, increasing the forest C sink by 29% in Maryland and 38% in Pennsylvania by 2030 without disrupting timber supplies. Key climate-smart forest management activities include maintaining and increasing forest extent, fostering forest resiliency and natural regeneration, encouraging sustainable harvest practices, balancing timber supply and wood utilization with tree growth, and preparing for future climate impacts. This study adds to a growing body of work that quantifies the relationships between forest growth, forest disturbance, and harvested wood product utilization, along with their collective influence on carbon stocks and fluxes, to identify pathways to enhance forest carbon sinks in support of state-level net-zero emission targets.

Key points Patients with diabetes often have comorbid depression. Those patients are struggling to meet their treatment goals. Thus, they have a higher risk of getting diabetes related complications as for example coronary heart diseases. A lot of different tools and instruments are available to diagnose depression, to screen for depression among patients with diabetes or to identify depression symptoms or depressive disorder in clinical or epidemiological studies, including interview, questionnaires or claims data. It would be helpful to know if the tools that are used identify the same people or, if this is not the case, whether people identified by different tools have different characteristics or health outcomes. We found that different methods do not identify the same people with depression. There was no clear pattern of differences between the identified groups, however, we found some initial indications that the method chosen is related to particular underlying characteristics in the population identified. Further research with larger data sets is necessary to see if there are differences among the persons that are identified by different tools to give recommendations which screening tool to use for what purpose.

PurposeSport climbing may lead to tissue adaptation including finger cartilage before apparent surface damage is detectable. The main aim was to assess finger cartilage composition with T2 mapping in young, active climbers and to compare the results to a non-climbers' collective. A secondary aim was to compare whether differences in cartilage T2 times are observed between older vs. younger volunteers.Methods and materials7 Tesla MRI of the fingers Dig.2–4 was performed using a multi-echo spin echo sequence. Manual segmentation of 3 ROIs at the metacarpal heads, 1 ROI at the base phalanx and 1 ROI at the proximal interphalangeal joint was performed. Included were 13 volunteers without history of trauma who are regularly performing climbing activities as a recreational sport (>20 h/month). These were age-matched with 10 control subjects not performing climbing activities.ResultsMean age was 32.4 years for the climbing group and 25.8 years for the controls. Mean T2 values for the 5 different ROIs were 42.2 ± 7.8 msec for climbers and 41.4 ± 6.8 msec for non-climbers. No significant differences were observed for T2 values between both groups. However, higher age had a significant impact on T2 values for all assessed ROIs (higher age 44.2 ± 9.5, younger age 32.9 ± 5.7, p = 0.001).DiscussionThis study evaluated the cartilage composition of young, engaged climbers with a T2 mapping MRI technique with the purpose to depict early onset joint changes. No negative impact on cartilage composition due to the sport activity was found, whereas age-related effects on the cartilage seemed to be more prominent.

The dietary orientation of the consumer depends on public policy in this area and on the consumer’s knowledge and ability to make choices. The diet includes gluten-free, lactose-free foods and a number of others. This problem is relevant not only for the organization of nutrition for adults, but for children of all ages. The problem of producing an appropriate range of dietary products should be divided into food and catering products. The manufacture of such products should be carried out with the use of modern scientific advances that allow to take into account all the main factors that affect the quality of the products received and determine the functional features. The market analysis showed that lactose-free products are the least represented in terms of quantity. The study solved the problem of expanding the range of lactose-free products, for which two types of serum were used. The serum-containing lactose was enzymatic hydrolysed to create a new product, lactose-free albumin. The liquid enzyme ß-galactosidase of Mayalact® 5000 was used for lactose hydrolysis. The organoleptic characteristic of the raw material, as well as model samples and technological parameters (including the sequence of technological operations) for the production of a new product is presented. The main physico-chemical indicators (dry matter, protein, fat and acidity content) investigated the lactose-free albumin obtained and microbiological safety indicators were determined. Organoleptic indicators of the finished product quality were presented, which were evaluated positively. The resulting product can be widely used in the public catering industry as a lactose-free substitute for curd, which is determined by its properties.

The objective of this study was to compare, by qPCR, the circulating blood parasite load of Trypanosoma cruzi in the buffy coat, and in whole blood mixed with boiled and unboiled guanidine hydrochloride-EDTA buffer, of individuals with chronic ChD. The concentration and purity of DNA were evaluated in a Nanodrop Denovix DS-11FX Series Spectrophotometer (DeNovix Inc., Wilmington, NC, USA). The parasite load was determined with the Taqman® qPCR system using a Stratagene Mx3000P thermocycler (Agilent Technologies, Santa Clara, CA, USA) with Cruzi 1 and Cruzi 2 satellite primers. Student’s t-test with Bonferroni correction, Chi-squared (χ2) tests and Spearman’s correlation coefficient were applied. The concentration and purity of DNA were higher in the buffy coat. Parasite DNA was detected and quantifiable in the three types of samples in seven patients, without statistically significant differences in the parasite load obtained. Higher correlations were found between the total DNA concentrations and the parasite loads obtained in the samples of the buffy coat.

Abstract Background Due to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and the accompanying contact restrictions, a new challenge arose for dental education. Despite the limited overall situation, it must be ensured that, in addition to theoretical content, practical skills in particular continue to be taught. Therefore, the aim of this study was to develop and implement an online hands-on course for dental students that ensures practical training, even during the pandemic. Methods The newly developed course was held from April 2020 to March 2021. A total of six groups (each consisting of approximately 40–50 students) took part in the course. The participating students were in their 3rd, 4th or 5th year of study. The course taught theoretical basics (via an online platform) and promoted the learning of practical/surgical techniques on models such as bananas, pork bellies, or chicken thighs with live demonstrations (via ZOOM) and interactive post-preparation by students at home (and in a rotating small group of 3–7 students on site). Student self-evaluation (at the beginning and end of the course) and course evaluation were performed using questionnaires. The learning success was analyzed (through self-evaluations) using Wilcoxon signed-rank tests (significance level alpha = 0.05). Results Concerning students´ self-evaluations, the theoretical knowledge, general surgical skills (such as surgical instrument handling), and specific surgical skills (such as performing a kite flap) improved during the course, with significant results (p

Salt hydrates are highly promising materials for thermochemical energy storage applications to store waste heat below 200 °C. Although highly researched and theoretically promising, in practical applications salt hydrates often cannot fulfill expectations. Based on the promising results of the Ca-oxalate monohydrate/Ca-oxalate system, other Ca-dicarboxylate salt hydrates were investigated to determine whether potential materials for heat storage can be found amongst them. A simultaneous thermal analysis showed that all candidates are applicable in the temperature range of 100–200 °C, and thermally stable up to 220 °C. Calcium malonate dihydrate (637 J/g), calcium terephthalate trihydrate (695 J/g), and tetrafluoro calcium terephthalate tetrahydrate (657 J/g) have shown higher enthalpies of dehydration than Ca-oxalate monohydrate. Due to the investigation of derivatives of Ca-terephthalate, it is possible to report the crystal structure of 2-fluoro calcium terephthalate. In single crystals, it forms a trihydrate and crystallizes in the Pmna space group (Z = 4, Z’ = ½) forming infinite chains of Ca atoms. De- and rehydration reactions of the most promising candidates were studied in situ with powder X-ray diffraction showing the structural changes between the hydrate and anhydrate states.

**Introduction:** We report an unusual case of cutaneous fusariosis in a kidney transplant recipient. *Fusarium* species are emerging fungal pathogens that pose diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. In severely immunocompromised patients, fusarial infections are associated with high mortality in the case of systemic dissemination. **Case presentation:** A 69-year-old black male with a history of renal transplantation presented with recurrent purulent nodules and painful ulcers of the left lower leg. Based on repeated skin biopsies, focally invasive skin infection with *Fusarium solani* was proven histologically and microbiologically. After four months of treatment with oral voriconazole, lesions considerably improved. When the patient died one month later from Covid-19 pneumonia under continued antifungal therapy, there was no evidence of systemic fusariosis or fusarial superinfection. **Conclusion:** Although rare, fusarial infections should be considered in immunocompromised individuals such as solid organ transplant recipients. Therefore, skin lesions in this patient population should be examined accurately. Histopathological and microbiological workups, including fungal cultures, are necessary for diagnosis and timely initiation of targeted therapy. Systemic antifungal therapy with voriconazole is the treatment of choice for focally invasive fusariosis. PEER REVIEWED ARTICLE

O experimento foi conduzido no Parque de Exposição Pedro Felício Cavalcante, localizado no município do Crato, Ceará, durante a 86º edição da Exposição Agropecuária do Crato (Expocrato) nos dias 13 a 21 de julho de 2019. O objetivo avaliar o bem-estar dos animais expostos para comercialização. Foram examinados 20 cavalos, todos machos, de faixa etária entre três a seis anos, durante nove dias. Os animais estavam sendo mantidos em baias de alvenaria de 2,0 x 3,0 m durante os nove dias de exposição. As variáveis climáticas foram obtidas a partir de um termo-higrômetro (AK28 new). Os equinos foram inspecionados a cada 30 minutos, distribuídos para todos os animais durante nove dias, no período entre 7,00 e 17,00 horas, para observar o comportamento durante o pico de pessoas na feira. Foram observados o tipo e a repetibilidade das estereotipias, o índice de temperatura e umidade (ITU) e as instalações. As estereotipias analisadas foram: coprofagia, lambeduras de cochos, paredes e correntes, movimentos verticais de cabeça, morder madeira, aerofagia, coicear a baía, balanço lateral do corpo, escavação com as patas, andar em círculos e atitude agressiva. As estereotipias mais observadas foram a atitude agressiva (60%), morder corrente ou madeira (40%) e aerofagia (25%). A agressividade foi observada com maior frequência durante a tarde, correspondendo ao intervalo de tempo com a maior circulação de pessoas no parque. A lambedura de cochos e correntes ocorria prevalentemente durante a tarde, entre os intervalos das refeições. A aerofagia ocorria com prevalência durante a manhã. Esse comportamento pode ser oriundo do estresse e da falta de atividades físicas, uma vez que os animais só saiam da baía para banhos. Os valores do ITU foram maiores nos primeiros dias de exposição. O ITU já se apresentava crítico no início das avaliações com média de 73 e se estendeu até os últimos dias de exposição, indicando que os animais poderiam apresentar desconforto térmico acentuado. Entre as condições de manejo, instalações e climatologia, foram identificados fatores de risco importantes, os quais são danosos para os equinos, do modo que impossibilitam o conforto ambiental e climático dos animais. Concluiu-se que as estereotipias em equinos expostos na Exposição Agropecuária do Crato são diversas e frequentes e as instalações e os protocolos de interação animal/visitantes não proporcionam conforto aos animais.

Abstract Background The specificity of extract‐based pollen allergy diagnosis is decreased due to cross‐reactivity via cross‐reactive carbohydrate determinants (CCDs) or panallergens such as profilins or polcalcins. This study aimed to explore the prevalence of sensitization to seasonal extracts, CCDs, profilin and polcalcin and investigate the sensitivity and specificity of seasonal molecular allergy diagnosis (MAD) using commercially available test methods. Methods 2948 patients were screened for specific immunoglobulin E to ash, birch, mugwort, ragweed and timothy grass pollen extracts and grouped according to the number of positive tests (1–5). 100 patients from each group and a control group were randomly selected to calculate the prevalence of CCD and panallergen sensitization. With 742 patients, sensitivity and specificity of MAD (Alt a 1, Fra/Ole e 1, Bet v 1, Phl p 1, Art v 1, and Amb a 1) was determined. Results 1627 patients (55.2%) were positive to at least one, and 1002 patients (34.0%) were positive to multiple of the five pollen allergens investigated; 18.5% of the pollen‐sensitized patients had sensitization to CCDs or panallergens. Specifically, sensitization to CCDs, profilins, and polcalcins was observed in 8.7%, 10.9%, and 2.9% of these patients, respectively. The sensitivity of MAD was high, with sensitivities between 96.2% and 100% using ImmunoCAP and 91.5% and 100% using ALEX2. Specificity was 100% for both assays. Conclusions Due to cross‐reactivity, about one‐fifth of pollen‐sensitized patients is at risk of misdiagnosis. However, MAD is sensitive, specific and helps to avoid misdiagnosis and select primary allergen sources for immunotherapy.

IntroductionAny measure of ecological stability scales with the spatial and temporal extent of the data on which it is based. The magnitude of stabilization effects at increasing spatial scale is determined by the degree of synchrony between local and regional species populations.MethodsWe applied two recently developed approaches to quantify these stabilizing effects to time series records from three aquatic monitoring data sets differing in environmental context and organism type.Results and DiscussionWe found that the amount and general patterns of stabilization with increasing spatial scale only varied slightly across the investigated species groups and systems. In all three data sets, the relative contribution of stabilizing effects via asynchronous dynamics across space was higher than compensatory dynamics due to differences in biomass fluctuations across species and populations. When relating the stabilizing effects of individual species and sites to species and site-specific characteristics as well as community composition and aspects of spatial biomass distribution patterns, however, we found that the effects of single species and sites showed large differences and were highly context dependent, i.e., dominant species can but did not necessarily have highly stabilizing or destabilizing effects on overall community biomass. The sign and magnitude of individual contributions depended on community structure and the spatial distribution of biomass and species in space. Our study therefore provides new insights into the mechanistic understanding of ecological stability patterns across scales in natural species communities.

Michael Schanne (27.6.1948–30. 8. 2021) studierte Soziologie, Publizistikwissenschaft und Politikwissenschaft an der Universität Zürich und schloss sein Studium 1977 mit Lizentiat bei Prof. Peter Heintz in Soziologie ab. Danach war er Assistent am Seminar für Publizistikwissenschaft bei Prof. Ulrich Saxer bis Mitte der 1980er Jahre. 1987 gründete er mit Werner A. Meier die AGK – Arbeitsgruppe für Kommunikationsforschung und -beratung und führte u. a. im Rahmen von Evaluationen zahlreiche Inhaltsanalysen durch sowie qualitative Forschungsprojekte basierend auf Experteninterviews. Von 2001 bis zu seiner Pensionierung 2013 forschte und lehrte er an der ZHAW – Zürcher Hochschule für Angewandte Wissenschaften zusammen mit Vinzenz Wyss an der Professur für Journalistik.

ABSTRACT: Objectives: This study aimed to describe the electrocardiographic and echocardiographic status of chronic Chagas disease (cChD) patients treated with nifurtimox. Methods: An observational study was performed in 146 cChD patients followed over a mean of 7.9 years. Results: Of the 146 patients, 41 (28.1%) with normal electrocardiogram (ECG) at baseline maintained this condition, 34 (23.3%) with altered ECG at baseline normalised the alterations, and 46 (31.5%) with ECG abnormalities at baseline maintained this condition [23 (15.8%) with small alterations]. Finally, 25 cases (17.1%) in indeterminate phase altered the ECG. Differences before and after follow-up (P < 0.001) were found. The percentage of beneficial treatment was different than expected by chance (Z = 4.8; P < 0.001) and the annual percentage of cases that developed ECG alterations was lower than that of a historical cohort of untreated patients (P < 0.001). An echocardiogram was performed in 68 patients with baseline ECG alterations. The ejection fraction (EF) was normal in 57 (83.8%) and abnormal in 11 (16.2%). In 38 patients with ECG abnormalities that did not progress after treatment, EF and segmental motility (SM) were normal in 31 (81.6%) and 26 (68.4%), respectively. In 17 patients with ECG abnormalities, EF and SM were normal in 15 (88.2%) and 14 (82.4%) cases, respectively. Conclusion: Less progression to cardiomyopathy compared with a historical untreated cohort as well as the EF/SM results in patients with abnormal ECG that did not progress and in indeterminate cChD that altered the ECG suggests a beneficial effect of nifurtimox.

The paper presents the concept of a control unit, i.e., a scenario player, for interactive training pilots in flight simulators. This scenario player is modelled as a hierarchy of finite state machines. Such an approach makes it possible to separate the details of an augmented reality display device which is used in training, from the core module of the system, responsible for contextual organization of the content. Therefore, the first contribution of this paper is the mathematical model of the scenario player as a universal formulation of the self-trained control unit for interactive learning systems, which is applicable in a variety of situations not limited solely to flight simulator related procedures. The second contribution is an experimental verification achieved by extensive simulations of the model, which proves that the proposed approach is capable to properly self-organize details of the context information by tracing preferences of the end users. For that latter purpose, the original algorithm is derived from statistical analysis, including Bayesian inference. The whole approach is illustrated by a real application of training the preflight procedure for the captain of the Boeing 737 aircraft in a flight simulator.

Abstract Background The oral health of organ transplanted patients before organ re-transplantation is largely unknown. This retrospective clinical study evaluates the necessity for intraoral surgical intervention and/or conservative treatment in candidates awaiting organ re-transplantation, both for graft failure and for reasons of another upcoming solid organ transplantation (renal or non-renal). Methods From January 2015 to March 2020 n = 19 transplant recipients in evaluation on the waiting list for solid organ re-transplantation could be included in the retrospective case series study. Using clinical and radiological examinations, necessity for oral surgical or conservative dental treatment was evaluated. On the basis of anamnesis data, current kidney function, renal replacement treatment (RRT), and medication, a risk profile for several patient subgroups was created. Results The clinical and radiological examinations showed a conservative and/or surgical treatment need in n = 13 cases (68.42%). In n = 7 cases (36.84%) surgical intervention was recommended due to residual root remnants (n = 5), unclear mucosal changes (n = 1), and periimplantitis (n = 1). In n = 16 recipients (84.2%) RRT (n = 15 hemodialysis; n = 1 peritoneal dialysis) had been performed. N = 14 recipients (73.68%) received immunosuppressants. In n = 1 patient (5.3%) displayed intraoral and n = 4 patients (21.1%) extraoral neoplasms due to drug-induced immunosuppression. Conclusions Solid organ transplant recipients with renal failure present a complex treatment profile due to a double burden of uremia plus immunosuppressants. In cases of surgical treatment need a hospitalized setting is recommended, where potentially necessary follow-up care and close cooperation with disciplines of internal medicine is possible in order to avoid surgical and/or internal complications.