bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AI-Powered Knowledge and Expertise Mining in Healthcare from a Field Experiment
Authors: Kauper Julia , Franke Susanne , Franke Felix , Grieshammer Steven
Published: April 2024

With the increasing prevalence of mobile applications across various domains, there is a growing demand for individualised and self-adaptive learning pathways. This is particularly important in the mobile health sector, where there is a critical need to investigate how expert and experiential knowledge can be acquired, digitalised and formalised into data which is subsequently processed and further used. To address this demand, our research explores how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can power this process. We developed a prototype mobile application with a standardised learning pathway that features speech-language therapy exercises of varying levels of difficulty. In a 12-week field experiment involving 21 individuals with aphasia, we analysed the results using supervised and unsupervised algorithms. Our findings suggest that AI has the potential to generate new knowledge, such as identifying features that can determine which learning words are perceived as easier or more difficult on an inter-individual basis. This knowledge enables algorithmisation and the design of standardised (database-supported) artefacts, which in turn can be used to formulate self-adaptive and individualised learning pathways. This significantly enhances the development of effective mobile applications to assist speech-language therapy.
Human Centered Implementation Process of AI in SMEs – Conditions for Success
Authors: Böhme Carolin , Graf-Pfohl Claudia , Meusinger Katrin
Published: April 2024

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming an integral part of various aspects of human life. However, the successful implementation of AI systems poses significant challenges. Delays in the implementation of AI in Germany and Europe indicate hurdles, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are important drivers of the German economy but also have structural disadvantages regarding AI implementation. To ensure that these AI systems are designed to meet the needs and expectations of end-users, Human Centered Design (HCD) has proven to be a promising approach. This paper aims to identify gaps and optimization potentials in the implementation process of AI with consideration of the Human Centered Design. The paper is based on existing literature and case studies to illustrate the benefits of using HCD in AI development and to identify weaknesses and optimization potentials in existing models. The paper concludes with recommendations for future research in this area.
LLM-assisted Knowledge Graph Engineering: Experiments with ChatGPT
Authors: Meyer Lars-Peter , Stadler Claus , Frey Johannes , Radtke Norman , Junghanns Kurt , Meissner Roy , Dziwis Gordian , Bulert Kirill , Martin Michael
Published: April 2024

Knowledge Graphs (KG) provide us with a structured, flexible, transparent, cross-system, and collaborative way of organizing our knowledge and data across various domains in society and industrial as well as scientific disciplines. KGs surpass any other form of representation in terms of effectiveness. However, Knowledge Graph Engineering (KGE) requires in-depth experiences of graph structures, web technologies, existing models and vocabularies, rule sets, logic, as well as best practices. It also demands a significant amount of work.

Considering the advancements in large language models (LLMs) and their interfaces and applications in recent years, we have conducted comprehensive experiments with ChatGPT to explore its potential in supporting KGE. In this paper, we present a selection of these experiments and their results to demonstrate how ChatGPT can assist us in the development and management of KGs.

Zusammenfassung. Wissensgraphen (englisch Knowledge Graphs, KGs), bieten uns eine strukturierte, flexible, transparente, systemübergreifende und kollaborative Möglichkeit, unser Wissen und unsere Daten über verschiedene Bereiche der Gesellschaft und der industriellen sowie wissenschaftlichen Disziplinen hinweg zu organisieren. KGs übertreffen jede andere Form der Repräsentation in Bezug auf die Effektivität. Die Entwicklung von Wissensgraphen (englisch Knowledge Graph Engineering, KGE) erfordert jedoch fundierte Erfahrungen mit Graphstrukturen, Webtechnologien, bestehenden Modellen und Vokabularen, Regelwerken, Logik sowie Best Practices. Es erfordert auch einen erheblichen Arbeitsaufwand.

In Anbetracht der Fortschritte bei großen Sprachmodellen (englisch Large Language Modells, LLMs) und ihren Schnittstellen und Anwendungen in den letzten Jahren haben wir umfassende Experimente mit ChatGPT durchgeführt, um sein Potenzial zur Unterstützung von KGE zu untersuchen. In diesem Artikel stellen wir eine Auswahl dieser Experimente und ihre Ergebnisse vor, um zu zeigen, wie ChatGPT uns bei der Entwicklung und Verwaltung von KGs unterstützen kann.
Foundations for the Development of an AI-based, Platformindipendent cOmpanion-app [for] Lifelong Learning-Optimization (APOLLO)
Authors: Boesl Dominik B. O. , Achtenberg Teresa , Bergler Lisa
Published: April 2024

In today’s knowledge society, the necessity for lifelong learning can be taken for granted. Hence, everybody will be facing the challenge of managing, organizing an optimizing the individual lifelong learning journey. Apart from teaching the essential methodological skills and abilities to enable lifelong acquisition of knowledge and skills, more and more guidance is needed to get an overview of the overabundance of learning content from diverse suppliers.

This paper elaborates on the the basic assumptions, analyses, and framework conditions for the development of an “AI-based, Platformindipendent cOmpanion-app [for] Lifelong Learning-Optimization” (acronym: APOLLO) as part of a 36-month funded project with kind financial support from the German Federal Ministry of Education and Training (BMBF) under coordination by the German Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB) as part of the innovation framework program “INVITE”. It outlines the project idea, describes the motivation and problem definition reflected in the educational domain as well as providing an overview of the current national and international state of research. All these aspects have been taken into consideration when defining the functional scope of the application.

Zusammenfassung. In der heutigen Wissensgesellschaft kann die Notwendigkeit zur Befähigung zum lebenslangen Lernen als gegeben angesehen werden. Abgesehen von der Vermittlung der essenziellen methodischen Fähig- und Fertigkeiten, um den lebens-langen Wissens- und Kenntniserwerb zu ermöglichen, ist aber auch immer mehr Lotsenhilfe beim Verschaffen eines Überblicks über das überbordende Angebot an Lerninhalten unterschiedlichster Anbieter nötig. Dieses Paper skizziert die grundlegenden Annahmen, Analysen und Rahmenbedingungen für die Entwicklung einer Ai-basierten, Plattformübergreifenden cOmpanian-app [für] Lebenslange Lern-Optimierung (Akronym: APOLLO) im Rahmen eines 36-monatigen Förderprojektes mit freundlicher Unterstützung des Bundesministeriums für Bildung und Forschung (BMBF) und unter Betreuung durch das Bundesinstitut für Berufliche Bildung (BIBB) als Teil der Förderricht-linie des Innovationswettbewerbs INVITE. Es umreißt die Projektidee, schildert die Motivation und Problemstellung im Bildungsbereich sowie den aktuellen nationalen und internationalen Forschungsstand, die zur detaillierten Spezifikation des Funktionsumgangs herangezogen wurde.
Effects of water salinization and substrata quality on the performance of the shredder Schizopelex festiva (Trichoptera; Sericostomatidae)
Authors: Simões S. , Almeida E. , Martínez A. , Oliveira R. , Canhoto C.
Published: April 2024

Secondary salinization is a growing concern for freshwaters worldwide. The lethal and sub-lethal effects on shredders are known, but not whether these result from direct exposure to contaminated aquatic medium and/or from indirect effects of distinct substrate quality through fungal conditioning in salinized media. Here, chestnut and oak leaves were conditioned for 4 weeks in reference (Cond0, 0 g/l NaCl) or salinized (Cond3, 3 g/l NaCl) media before being offered to the shredder Schizopelex festiva maintained in reference (Inv0) or salinized (Inv3) media. Fungal biomasses associated with leaf litter and consumption, respiration rates, growth, survival, and feeding preference of S. festiva were assessed. We found lower fungal biomass in both leaf species conditioned in Cond3 medium. Consumption rates were higher for oak than chestnut, and in Inv0 than Inv3, but were not affected by conditioning media. Growth was also affected by invertebrate media (Inv0 > Inv3), while Inv3 led to the lowest survival. Schizopelex festiva preferred Cond0 over Cond3 oak leaves only in Inv0. Results strongly suggest that direct exposure to salinized media is a main pathway of salt toxicity to shredders through a generalized reduction in invertebrates’ metabolic rates when facing salt stress. Salt addition to the media may result in an energetic investment in osmotic regulation at the expense of consumption and growth, with consequences for invertebrate survival. Potential negative effects of salt contamination on shredders’ ability to select more nutritious food items may contribute to cascading effects throughout the stream food webs, particularly in streams lined with more recalcitrant leaf litter.
A higher glabellar soft tissue cushion is associated with a lower incidence of pilonidal sinus disease
Authors: Doll Dietrich , Ernst Helge , Hall Lars-Patrick , Orth Marcel , Braun-Münker Myriam , Maak Matthias
Published: April 2024

Background

Mounting evidence links cut occipital hair fragments to the formation of pilonidal sinus disease (PSD). Anatomical variations in the shape of the dorsal crest between the occiput and the upper intergluteal fold may be crucial in the downward movement of hair to the glabella sacralis region.

Objective

This study aims to investigate the shape and height of the glabellar cushion and their potential influence on the development of PSD.

Patients and methods

We established a method for capturing the shape of the thoracolumbar back down to the intragluteal fold using a structured light 3D scanning device. The soft tissue surface contour of this region was measured. We developed algorithms to extract the width and shape of the canal between the erector trunci, as well as the height of the glabellar cushion. Included were 155 individuals, 94 PSD patients and 61 without PSD.

Results

Glabellar height differs significantly between PSD and non-PSD cohorts. In total, PSD was associated with a 7.8 ± 3.7 mm glabellar cushion, while non-PSD patients exhibited a 9.7 ± 3.8 mm glabellar cushion (p = 0.0021). In male PSD patients, the glabellar height was 7.8 ± 3.7 mm (mean ± SD), while in female PSD patients it was 7.7 ± 3.6 mm. Conversely, non-PSD males had a glabellar cushion height of 8.9 ± 2.7 mm, and non-PSD females of 10.5 ± 4.4 mm.

Conclusion

A higher glabellar region is associated with a lower incidence of pilonidal sinus disease. Therefore, elevating and bolstering the glabellar region could be beneficial for preventing recurrence.
Absaugung bei intubierten und tracheotomierten Patient*innen
Authors: Krüger Lars , Mannebach Thomas , Wefer Franziska , Lohmeier Sarah , Stork Vanessa , Gosmann Evelin , Kaltwasser Arnold
Published: April 2024

Hintergrund

Endotracheales Absaugen bei intubierten oder tracheotomierten kritisch kranken Patient*innen fällt in den täglichen Aufgabenbereich verschiedener Berufsgruppen in der Intensiv- und Notfallmedizin.

Eine deutschsprachige Zusammenfassung aktueller Evidenz fehlt bisher.

Ziel der Arbeit

Ziel ist es, eine narrative Übersichtsarbeit über die aktuelle Evidenz zum endotrachealen Absaugen von intubierten oder tracheotomierten Patient*innen im klinischen Setting zu erstellen.

Material und Methoden

Es erfolgten eine Literaturrecherche in den Datenbanken CINAHL, Cochrane Library, LIVIVO, Medline via PubMed, eine Handsuche und ergänzend die Anwendung des Schneeballprinzips durch hochschulisch qualifizierte Pflegende. Eingeschlossen wurden nach erfolgreicher kritischer Beurteilung alle englisch- und deutschsprachigen Publikationen, welche die endotracheale Absaugung im Kontext der Versorgung im Krankenhaus thematisieren.

Ergebnisse

Insgesamt konnten 23 Volltexte eingeschlossen werden, von denen nach der Entwicklung von 6 Oberthemen zur endotrachealen Absaugung 19 in die Berichterstattung aufgenommen wurden.

Im Ergebnis stellte sich u. a. heraus, dass das routinemäßige tiefe Absaugen einmal pro Schicht kontraindiziert ist und der Katheter maximal 0,5–1 cm über das distale Tubus- oder Trachealkanülenende vorgeschoben werden soll. Geschlossene Absaugkatheter bieten, bei allerdings heterogener Studienlage, insbesondere für den Personalschutz Vorteile. Fortbildungen des Personals sind obligat.

Diskussion

Zur endotrachealen Absaugung ließen sich wenige aussagekräftige Studien finden. Mit der vorhandenen Evidenz können jedoch erste Schlussfolgerungen getroffen werden, welche in z. B. internen Standard Operating Procedures berücksichtigt werden sollten. Weitere Forschung ist nötig.
Venture capital investments in artificial intelligence
Authors: Montanaro Benedetta , Croce Annalisa , Ughetto Elisa
Published: April 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies have significantly attracted the attention of institutional investors over the last decade. However, previous literature has not deeply explored the characteristics of venture capital (VC) investments in AI ventures. In this study, we explore whether and to what extent investments in AI ventures differ from those in similar non-AI ventures, and whether they are moderated by venture-level, country-level, and investor-level factors. We test our hypotheses on a sample of 5235 investments in 2689 AI ventures and 9215 investments in 4373 non-AI ventures belonging to the Industry 4.0 domain, observed from 2000 to 2019. We find that the amount invested in AI ventures is significantly lower than non-AI ones: this negative relationship is, however, moderated by a venture’s development stage, VC investor’s experience and the AI development level of the country in which the invested venture operates.
Mapping elemental solutes at sub-picogram levels during aqueous corrosion of Al alloys using diffusive gradients in thin films (DGT) with LA-ICP-MS
Authors: Mukhametzianova Gulnaz , Wagner Stefan , Eskinja Magdalena , Moshtaghi Masoud , Mori Gregor , Prohaska Thomas
Published: April 2024

A novel approach using diffusive gradients in thin films (DGT) with laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) for two-dimensional mapping of elemental solute release at sub-picogram levels during aqueous corrosion of Al alloys is presented. Evaluation of different DGT gels with mixed micro-sized binding phases (polyacrylamide-Chelex-Metsorb, polyurethane (PU)-Chelex-Metsorb, PU-Chelex-Zr(OH)4) demonstrated the superior performance of PU gels due to their tear-proof handling, low shrinkage, and compliance with green chemistry. DGT devices containing PU-Chelex-Zr(OH)4 gels, which have not been characterized for Al sampling before, showed quantitative uptake of Al, Zn, and Cu solutes over time (t = 4–48 h) with higher Al capacity (ΓDGT = 6.25 µg cm−2) than different gels. Application of PU-Chelex-Zr(OH)4 gels on a high-strength Al-Cu alloy (Al2219) exposed to NaCl (w = 1.5%, pH = 4.5, T = 21 °C) for 15 min in a novel piston-type configuration revealed reproducible patterns of Al and Zn co-solubilization with a spatial expansion ranging between 50 and 1000 µm. This observation, together with complementary solid-state data from secondary electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, showed the presence of localized pitting corrosion at the material surface. Detection limits for total solute masses of Al, Zn, and Cu were ≤0.72 pg, ≤8.38 pg, and ≤0.12 pg, respectively, for an area of 0.01 mm2, demonstrating the method’s unique capability to localize and quantify corrosion processes at ultra-trace levels and high resolution. Our study advances the assessment of Al alloy degradation in aqueous environments, supporting the design of corrosion-resistant materials for fostering technological safety and sustainability.

Graphical Abstract
Exploring the effect of sucrose and d-allulose addition on the gelling ability and physical properties of agar–agar vegan gels
Authors: Poçan Pelin , Çıkrıkcı Erünsal Sevil
Published: April 2024

Plant-based hydrocolloid systems which are mixed with different carbohydrate types are becoming popular due to vegan concerns for both non-food and food industry. In this study, different sugar types (d-allulose and sucrose) at different concentrations (20% and 40%) were used to explore their effects on the gelation and physical properties of agar–agar. For characterization of these agar–agar-based gel systems, in addition to common physical methods (moisture content, water activity, color, hardness, viscosity), novel methods such as TD-NMR relaxometry, and FTIR were also used to get deep insight of the microstructures and water dynamics of the gel systems. Results clearly indicated that sugar type and concentration were vital factors affecting the agar–agar gel properties and dynamics of the system. Utilization of allulose in the gel systems led to formation of less moist and softer agar–agar matrix characterized with longer T2 spin–spin relaxation times. This study will lead to designing new types of vegan agar–agar-based confectionery products such as soft candies that are considered as perfect composite gels.
Chaos in Stochastic 2d Galerkin-Navier–Stokes
Authors: Bedrossian Jacob , Punshon-Smith Sam
Published: April 2024

We prove that all Galerkin truncations of the 2d stochastic Navier–Stokes equations in vorticity form on any rectangular torus subjected to hypoelliptic, additive stochastic forcing are chaotic at sufficiently small viscosity, provided the frequency truncation satisfies $$N\ge 392$$

N
≥
392

. By “chaotic” we mean having a strictly positive Lyapunov exponent, i.e. almost-sure asymptotic exponential growth of the derivative with respect to generic initial conditions. A sufficient condition for such results was derived in previous joint work with Alex Blumenthal which reduces the question to the non-degeneracy of a matrix Lie algebra implying Hörmander’s condition for the Markov process lifted to the sphere bundle (projective hypoellipticity). The purpose of this work is to reformulate this condition to be more amenable for Galerkin truncations of PDEs and then to verify this condition using (a) a reduction to genericity properties of a diagonal sub-algebra inspired by the root space decomposition of semi-simple Lie algebras and (b) computational algebraic geometry executed by Maple in exact rational arithmetic. Note that even though we use a computer assisted proof, the result is valid for all aspect ratios and all sufficiently high dimensional truncations; in fact, certain steps simplify in the formal infinite dimensional limit.
Development and Internal Validation of a Multivariable Prediction Model for Mortality After Hip Fracture with Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Mosfeldt Mathias , Jørgensen Henrik Løvendahl , Lauritzen Jes Bruun , Jansson Karl-Åke
Published: April 2024

In order to estimate the likelihood of 1, 3, 6 and 12 month mortality in patients with hip fractures, we applied a variety of machine learning methods using readily available, preoperative data. We used prospectively collected data from a single university hospital in Copenhagen, Denmark for consecutive patients with hip fractures, aged 60 years and older, treated between September 2008 to September 2010 (n = 1186). Preoperative biochemical and anamnestic data were used as predictors and outcome was survival at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after the fracture. After feature selection for each timepoint a stratified split was done (70/30) before training and validating Random Forest models, extreme gradient boosting (XGB) and Generalized Linear Models. We evaluated and compared each model using receiver operator characteristic (ROC), calibration slope and intercept, Spiegelhalter’s z- test and Decision Curve Analysis. Using combinations of between 10 and 13 anamnestic and biochemical parameters we were able to successfully estimate the likelihood of mortality with an area under the curve on ROC curves of 0.79, 0.80, 0.79 and 0.81 for 1, 3, 6 and 12 month, respectively. The XGB was the overall best calibrated and most promising model. The XGB model most successfully estimated the likelihood of mortality postoperatively. An easy-to-use model could be helpful in perioperative decisions concerning level of care, focused research and information to patients. External validation is necessary before widespread use and is currently underway, an online tool has been developed for educational/experimental purposes (https://hipfx.shinyapps.io/hipfx/).
Characterisation of hygroelastic properties of compression and opposite wood found in branches of Norway spruce
Authors: Hartwig-Nair Marie , Florisson Sara , Wohlert Malin , Gamstedt E. Kristofer
Published: April 2024

The differential swelling seen between softwood opposite wood (OW) and its neighbouring compression wood (CW) developed in branches prompts several engineering issues such as dimensional instability and cracking. For a more efficient use of resources, the inevitable CW and OW should not be discarded or used as fuel, but incorporated into engineered wood products. Swelling is a hygroelastic phenomenon, where both the swelling and elastic properties of CW and OW are needed in order to make proper structural predictions. In this paper, swelling coefficients and moisture dependent elastic moduli for both CW and OW in the three principal material directions are provided along with measurements of moisture content, density, and microfibril angle. The small deformations necessitate the use of precise X-ray micro-computed tomography for measurements. The results indicate that CW and OW from Norway spruce branches differ in swelling, especially in longitudinal direction at low moisture content. It is noted that CW is a wood type with less pronounced anisotropic behaviour than both OW and normal wood from the stem, with the elastic moduli less sensitive to moisture changes in both longitudinal and transverse directions.
The isomorphism problem for ideal class monoids of numerical semigroups
Authors: García-Sánchez P. A.
Published: April 2024

From any poset isomorphic to the poset of gaps of a numerical semigroup S with the order induced by S, one can recover S. As an application, we prove that two different numerical semigroups cannot have isomorphic posets (with respect to set inclusion) of ideals whose minimum is zero. We also show that given two numerical semigroups S and T, if their ideal class monoids are isomorphic, then S must be equal to T.
Cadherin-17 as a target for the immunoPET of adenocarcinoma
Authors: Delaney Samantha , Keinänen Outi , Lam Dennis , Wolfe Andrew L. , Hamakubo Takao , Zeglis Brian M.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Cadherin-17 (CDH17) is a calcium-dependent cell adhesion protein that is overexpressed in several adenocarcinomas, including gastric, colorectal, and pancreatic adenocarcinoma. High levels of CDH17 have been linked to metastatic disease and poor prognoses in patients with these malignancies, fueling interest in the protein as a target for diagnostics and therapeutics. Herein, we report the synthesis, in vitro validation, and in vivo evaluation of a CDH17-targeted 89Zr-labeled immunoPET probe.

Methods

The CDH17-targeting mAb D2101 was modified with an isothiocyanate-bearing derivative of desferrioxamine (DFO) to produce a chelator-bearing immunoconjugate — DFO-D2101 — and flow cytometry and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) were used to interrogate its antigen-binding properties. The immunoconjugate was then radiolabeled with zirconium-89 (t1/2 ~ 3.3 days), and the serum stability and immunoreactive fraction of [89Zr]Zr-DFO-D2101 were determined. Finally, [89Zr]Zr-DFO-D2101’s performance was evaluated in a trio of murine models of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC): subcutaneous, orthotopic, and patient-derived xenografts (PDX). PET images were acquired over the course of 5 days, and terminal biodistribution data were collected after the final imaging time point.

Results

DFO-D2101 was produced with a degree of labeling of ~ 1.1 DFO/mAb. Flow cytometry with CDH17-expressing AsPC-1 cells demonstrated that the immunoconjugate binds to its target in a manner similar to its parent mAb, while SPR with recombinant CDH17 revealed that D2101 and DFO-D2101 exhibit nearly identical KD values: 8.2 × 10−9 and 6.7 × 10−9 M, respectively. [89Zr]Zr-DFO-D2101 was produced with a specific activity of 185 MBq/mg (5.0 mCi/mg), remained >80% stable in human serum over the course of 5 days, and boasted an immunoreactive fraction of >0.85. In all three murine models of PDAC, the radioimmunoconjugate yielded high contrast images, with high activity concentrations in tumor tissue and low uptake in non-target organs. Tumoral activity concentrations reached as high as >60 %ID/g in two of the cohorts bearing PDXs.

Conclusion

Taken together, these data underscore that [89Zr]Zr-DFO-D2101 is a highly promising probe for the non-invasive visualization of CDH17 expression in PDAC. We contend that this radioimmunoconjugate could have a significant impact on the clinical management of patients with both PDAC and gastrointestinal adenocarcinoma, most likely as a theranostic imaging tool in support of CDH17-targeted therapies.
Imaging extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA) in cancer
Authors: Purshouse Karin , Pollard Steven M. , Bickmore Wendy A.
Published: April 2024

Extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA) are circular regions of DNA that are found in many cancers. They are an important means of oncogene amplification, and correlate with treatment resistance and poor prognosis. Consequently, there is great interest in exploring and targeting ecDNA vulnerabilities as potential new therapeutic targets for cancer treatment. However, the biological significance of ecDNA and their associated regulatory control remains unclear. Light microscopy has been a central tool in the identification and characterisation of ecDNA. In this review we describe the different cellular models available to study ecDNA, and the imaging tools used to characterise ecDNA and their regulation. The insights gained from quantitative imaging are discussed in comparison with genome sequencing and computational approaches. We suggest that there is a crucial need for ongoing innovation using imaging if we are to achieve a full understanding of the dynamic regulation and organisation of ecDNA and their role in tumourigenesis.
One-Anastomosis Gastric Bypass (OABG) vs. Single Anastomosis Duodeno-Ileal Bypass (SADI) as revisional procedure following Sleeve Gastrectomy: results of a multicenter study
Authors: Gallucci Pierpaolo , Marincola Giuseppe , Pennestrì Francesco , Procopio Priscilla Francesca , Prioli Francesca , Salvi Giulia , Ciccoritti Luigi , Greco Francesco , Velotti Nunzio , Schiavone Vincenzo , Franzese Antonio , Mansi Federica , Uccelli Matteo , Cesana Giovanni , Musella Mario , Olmi Stefano , Raffaelli Marco
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Sleeve Gastrectomy (SG) is the most performed bariatric surgery, but a considerable number of patients may require revisional procedures for suboptimal clinical response/recurrence of weight (SCR/RoW). Conversion options include One-Anastomosis Gastric Bypass (OAGB) and Single Anastomosis Duodeno-Ileal Bypass (SADI). The study aims to compare SADI vs. OAGB as revisional procedures in terms of early and mid-term complications, operative time, postoperative hospital stay and clinical outcomes.

Methods

All patients who underwent OAGB or SADI as revisional procedures following SG for SCR/RoW at three high-volume bariatric centers between January 2014 and April 2021 were included. Propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was performed. Demographic, operative, and postoperative outcomes of the two groups were compared.

Results

One hundred and sixty-eight patients were identified. After PSM, the two groups included 42 OAGB and 42 SADI patients. Early (≤ 30 days) postoperative complications rate did not differ significantly between OAGB and SADI groups (3 bleedings vs. 0, p = 0.241). Mid-term (within 2 years) complications rate was significantly higher in the OAGB group (21.4% vs. 2.4%, p = 0.007), mainly anastomotic complications and reflux disease (12% of OAGBs). Seven OAGB patients required conversion to another procedure (Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass—RYGB) vs. none among the SADI patients (p = 0.006).

Conclusions

SADI and OAGB are both effective as revisional procedures for SCR/RoW after SG. OAGB is associated with a significantly higher rate of mid-term complications and a not negligible rate of conversion (RYGB). Larger studies are necessary to draw definitive conclusions.
Contributions of the left and right thalami to language: A meta-analytic approach
Authors: Bulut Talat , Hagoort Peter
Published: April 2024

Background: Despite a pervasive cortico-centric view in cognitive neuroscience, subcortical structures including the thalamus have been shown to be increasingly involved in higher cognitive functions. Previous structural and functional imaging studies demonstrated cortico-thalamo-cortical loops which may support various cognitive functions including language. However, large-scale functional connectivity of the thalamus during language tasks has not been examined before. Methods: The present study employed meta-analytic connectivity modeling to identify language-related coactivation patterns of the left and right thalami. The left and right thalami were used as regions of interest to search the BrainMap functional database for neuroimaging experiments with healthy participants reporting language-related activations in each region of interest. Activation likelihood estimation analyses were then carried out on the foci extracted from the identified studies to estimate functional convergence for each thalamus. A functional decoding analysis based on the same database was conducted to characterize thalamic contributions to different language functions. Results: The results revealed bilateral frontotemporal and bilateral subcortical (basal ganglia) coactivation patterns for both the left and right thalami, and also right cerebellar coactivations for the left thalamus, during language processing. In light of previous empirical studies and theoretical frameworks, the present connectivity and functional decoding findings suggest that cortico-subcortical-cerebellar-cortical loops modulate and fine-tune information transfer within the bilateral frontotemporal cortices during language processing, especially during production and semantic operations, but also other language (e.g., syntax, phonology) and cognitive operations (e.g., attention, cognitive control). Conclusion: The current findings show that the language-relevant network extends beyond the classical left perisylvian cortices and spans bilateral cortical, bilateral subcortical (bilateral thalamus, bilateral basal ganglia) and right cerebellar regions.
Nationwide hospitalizations of patients with down syndrome and congenital heart disease over a 15-year period
Authors: Guariento Alvise , Cattapan Claudia , Lorenzoni Giulia , Guerra Giulia , Doulamis Ilias P. , di Salvo Giovanni , Gregori Dario , Vida Vladimiro L.
Published: April 2024

Down syndrome is one of the most common genetic diseases, generally associated with an increased probability of congenital heart diseases. This increased risk contributes to escalated levels of morbidity and mortality. In this study, we sought to analyze nationwide data of pediatric and adult patients with Down syndrome and congenital heart disease over a 15-year period. Data obtained from the hospital discharge form between 2001 and 2016 of patients diagnosed with Down syndrome in Italy and at least one congenital heart disease were included. Information on 12362 admissions of 6527 patients were included. Age at first admission was 6.2 ± 12.8 years and was a predictor of mortality (HR = 1.51, 95% CI 1.13–2.03, p = 0.006). 3923 (60.1%) patients underwent only one admission, while 2604 (39.9%) underwent multiple (> 1) admissions. There were 5846 (47.3%) admissions for cardiac related symptoms. Multiple admissions (SHR: 3.13; 95% CI: 2.99, 3.27; P < 0.01) and cardiac admissions (SHR: 2.00; 95% CI: 1.92, 2.09; P < 0.01) were associated with an increased risk of additional potential readmissions. There was an increased risk of mortality for patients who had cardiac admissions (HR = 1.45, 95% CI: 1.08–1.94, p = 0.012), and for those who underwent at least 1 cardiac surgical procedure (HR = 1.51, 95% CI 1.13–2.03, p = 0.006).

Conclusions: A younger age at first admission is a predictor for mortality in patients with Down syndrome and congenital heart disease. If patients undergo more than one admission, the risk of further readmissions increases. There is a pivotal role for heart disease in influencing the hospitalization rate and subsequent mortality.

What is Known:• Down syndrome individuals often face an increased risk of congenital heart diseases.• Congenital heart diseases contribute significantly to morbidity and mortality in Down syndrome patients.

What is New:• This study analyzes nationwide data covering a 15-year period of pediatric and adult patients in Italy with Down syndrome and congenital heart disease.• It identifies a younger age at first admission as a predictor for mortality in these patients, emphasizing the criticality of early intervention.• Demonstrates a correlation between multiple admissions, particularly those related to cardiac issues, and an increased risk of further readmissions, providing insights into the ongoing healthcare needs of these individuals.
Synthetic co-culture in an interconnected two-compartment bioreactor system: violacein production with recombinant E. coli strains
Authors: Müller Tobias , Schick Simon , Klemp Jan-Simon , Sprenger Georg A. , Takors Ralf
Published: April 2024

The concept of modular synthetic co-cultures holds considerable potential for biomanufacturing, primarily to reduce the metabolic burden of individual strains by sharing tasks among consortium members. However, current consortia often show unilateral relationships solely, without stabilizing feedback control mechanisms, and are grown in a shared cultivation setting. Such ‘one pot’ approaches hardly install optimum growth and production conditions for the individual partners. Hence, novel mutualistic, self-coordinating consortia are needed that are cultured under optimal growth and production conditions for each member. The heterologous production of the antibiotic violacein (VIO) in the mutually interacting E. coli–E. coli consortium serves as an example of this new principle. Interdependencies for growth control were implemented via auxotrophies for L-tryptophan and anthranilate (ANT) that were satisfied by the respective partner. Furthermore, VIO production was installed in the ANT auxotrophic strain. VIO production, however, requires low temperatures of 20–30 °C which conflicts with the optimum growth temperature of E. coli at 37 °C. Consequently, a two-compartment, two-temperature level setup was used, retaining the mutual interaction of the cells via the filter membrane-based exchange of medium. This configuration also provided the flexibility to perform individualized batch and fed-batch strategies for each co-culture member. We achieved maximum biomass-specific productivities of around 6 mg (g h)−1 at 25 °C which holds great promise for future applications.
A single-arm pilot of MyInspiration: a novel digital resource to support spiritual needs of patients undergoing cancer-directed surgery
Authors: Kelly Elizabeth Palmer , Klatt Maryanna , Caputo Jacqueline , Pawlik Timothy M.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and satisfaction associated with the MyInspiration intervention, a digital spiritual support tool for patients undergoing cancer surgery. Additionally, we evaluated changes in spiritual well-being and the ability to find meaning in their experience with cancer before and after the intervention.

Methods

This was a prospective, single-arm pilot study. Feasibility and acceptability were assessed by ratio of participants who completed all assessments among individuals who had signed consent forms. Satisfaction was assessed with 5 Likert-style questions around user experience. Patient spiritual well-being and finding meaning in their experience with cancer were measured at baseline and post-intervention.

Results

Forty patients were enrolled, the majority of whom were female (80.0%) and diagnosed with breast cancer (52.5%), with an average age of 54.4 years (SD = 13.7, range 29.0–82.0). Regarding feasibility and acceptability, 76.9% of patients who consented to participate completed the full study protocol. In assessing satisfaction, 59% of patients were satisfied with the overall experience of MyInspiration. There was no difference in spiritual well-being pre-/post-intervention. There was a difference in pre (M = 1.95, SD = .95) and post (M = 2.23, SD = .86) scores relative to “finding meaning in the cancer experience” with a mean difference of 0.28 (p = 0.008).

Conclusion

MyInspiration was feasible and acceptable to patients, and the majority were satisfied with the tool. The intervention was associated with changes in patients’ ability to find meaning within their cancer experience. A randomized control trial is needed to evaluate the efficacy of the tool in a broader population of patients with cancer.
Chemical angioplasty vs. balloon plus chemical angioplasty for delayed cerebral ischemia: a pilot study of PbtO2 outcomes
Authors: Moncur Eleanor M. , Craven Claudia L. , Al-Ahmad Selma , Jones Bethany , Robertson Fergus , Reddy Ugan , Toma Ahmed K.
Published: April 2024

Background

Delayed cerebral ischaemia (DCI) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality after aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (aSAH). Chemical angioplasty (CA) and transluminal balloon angioplasty (TBA) are used to treat patients with refractory vasospasm causing DCI. Multi-modal monitoring including brain tissue oxygenation (PbtO2) is routinely used at this centre for early detection and management of DCI following aSAH. In this single-centre pilot study, we are comparing these two treatment modalities and their effects on PbtO2.

Methods

Retrospective case series of patients with DCI who had PbtO2 monitoring as part of their multimodality monitoring and underwent either CA or TBA combined with CA. PbtO2 values were recorded from intra-parenchymal Raumedic NEUROVENT-PTO® probes. Data were continuously collected and downloaded as second-by-second data. Comparisons were made between pre-angioplasty PbtO2 and post-angioplasty PbtO2 median values (4 h before angioplasty, 4 h after and 12 h after).

Results

There were immediate significant improvements in PbtO2 at the start of intervention in both groups. PbtO2 then increased by 13 mmHg in the CA group and 15 mmHg in the TBA plus CA group in the first 4 h post-intervention. This improvement in PbtO2 was sustained for the TBA plus CA group but not the CA group.

Conclusion

Combined balloon plus chemical angioplasty results in more sustained improvement in brain tissue oxygenation compared with chemical angioplasty alone. Our findings suggest that PbtO2 is a useful tool for monitoring the response to angioplasty in vasospasm.
Interdisziplinäre Therapie von Hirnmetastasen
Authors: Bernhardt Denise , Krieg Sandro M. , Müller Volkmar , Witzel Isabell
Published: April 2024

Bei Patientinnen mit einem metastasierten Mammakarzinom zeigt sich eine steigende Inzidenz zerebraler Metastasen bei Fortschritten in der systemischen Therapie. Bei Metastasen des zentralen Nervensystems (ZNS) ist in den meisten Fällen eine lokale Therapie indiziert. Eine operative Therapie kommt bei symptomatischen Metastasen, singulären Metastasen oder zur Gewinnung einer Histologie infrage. Eine Radiatio der ZNS-Metastasen sollte nach Möglichkeit stereotaktisch erfolgen. Bei multiplen Hirnmetastasen bzw. im Rezidiv kann eine Ganzhirnbestrahlung durchgeführt werden, die mit kognitiven Einschränkungen assoziiert sein kann. In Einzelfällen kann bei asymptomatischen Metastasen und Wechsel der systemischen Therapie eine lokale Behandlung aufgeschoben werden, insbesondere wenn eine stereotaktische Bestrahlung nicht möglich ist. Erste Studiendaten für Patientinnen mit Hirnmetastasen liegen vor, jedoch besteht großer Bedarf an klinischer und translationaler Forschung.
Simulating vision impairment in virtual reality: a comparison of visual task performance with real and simulated tunnel vision
Authors: Neugebauer Alexander , Castner Nora , Severitt Björn , Stingl Katarina , Ivanov Iliya , Wahl Siegfried
Published: April 2024

In this work, we explore the potential and limitations of simulating gaze-contingent tunnel vision conditions using Virtual Reality (VR) with built-in eye tracking technology. This approach promises an easy and accessible way of expanding study populations and test groups for visual training, visual aids, or accessibility evaluations. However, it is crucial to assess the validity and reliability of simulating these types of visual impairments and evaluate the extend to which participants with simulated tunnel vision can represent real patients. Two age-matched participant groups were acquired: The first group (n = 8, aged 20–60, average 49.1 ± 13.2) consisted of patients diagnosed with Retinitis pigmentosa (RP). The second group (n = 8, aged 27–59, average 46.5 ± 10.8) consisted of visually healthy participants with simulated tunnel vision. Both groups carried out different visual tasks in a virtual environment for 30 min per day over the course of four weeks. Task performances as well as gaze characteristics were evaluated in both groups over the course of the study. Using the ’two one-sided tests for equivalence’ method, the two groups were found to perform similar in all three visual tasks. Significant differences between groups were found in different aspects of their gaze behavior, though most of these aspects seem to converge over time. Our study evaluates the potential and limitations of using Virtual Reality technology to simulate the effects of tunnel vision within controlled virtual environments. We find that the simulation accurately represents performance of RP patients in the context of group averages, but fails to fully replicate effects on gaze behavior.
Landscape discourses and rural transformations: insights from the Dutch Dune and Flower Bulb Region
Authors: de Koning Susan
Published: April 2024

Rural landscapes are facing a loss of biodiversity. To deal with this challenge, landscape governance is seen as an alternative and addition to sectoral policies and a potential way of realizing transformative change for biodiversity. To study transformative change in the Bulb Region, the Netherlands, this study uses a discursive-institutional perspective. A mixed methods approach was used including 50 interviews, participant observation and document analysis. The structuration and institutionalization of three competing landscape discourses were analyzed: a hegemonic discourse rejecting any changes in bulb farming; an emerging discourse aiming to enhance sustainability through innovation; and an unstructured discourse questioning the sustainability of bulb farming. The paper shows that the emerging sustainability discourse strengthens the hegemonic discourse by providing an action repertoire for farmers to deal with changing societal demands, while not questioning the hegemonic view on the landscape. Moreover, an institutionalized landscape discourse can be very stable if discursive (relation between naturalized landscape perspectives, identity and the articulated economic interests) and non-discursive factors (natural-spatial conditions, structure of agricultural sector, embeddedness in international trade) are strongly intertwined, leaving little room for alternative discourses. The sustainability discourse was induced by changes outside the Bulb Region (e.g., legislation), thus raising the question whether landscapes are the appropriate level to expect the initiation of transformative change. For rural transformations to come about, solely relying on policies on the landscape level is not sensible. A mix of policies at both the landscape and higher levels offers more perspective for transformative change.
Neural signatures of imaginary motivational
states: desire for music, movement and social play
Authors: Della Vedova Giada , Proverbio Alice Mado
Published: April 2024

The literature has demonstrated the potential for detecting accurate
electrical signals that correspond to the will or intention to move, as well as
decoding the thoughts of individuals who imagine houses, faces or objects. This
investigation examines the presence of precise neural markers of imagined
motivational states through the combining of electrophysiological and neuroimaging
methods. 20 participants were instructed to vividly imagine the desire to move,
listen to music or engage in social activities. Their EEG was recorded from 128
scalp sites and analysed using individual standardized Low-Resolution Brain
Electromagnetic Tomographies (LORETAs) in the N400 time window (400–600 ms).
The activation of 1056 voxels was examined in relation to the 3 motivational states.
The most active dipoles were grouped in eight regions of interest (ROI), including
Occipital, Temporal, Fusiform, Premotor, Frontal, OBF/IF, Parietal, and Limbic
areas. The statistical analysis revealed that all motivational imaginary states
engaged the right hemisphere more than the left hemisphere. Distinct markers were
identified for the three motivational states. Specifically, the right temporal area
was more relevant for “Social Play”, the orbitofrontal/inferior
frontal cortex for listening to music, and the left premotor cortex for the
“Movement” desire. This outcome is encouraging in terms of the
potential use of neural indicators in the realm of brain-computer interface, for
interpreting the thoughts and desires of individuals with locked-in syndrome.
The impact of severe obesity on image quality and ventricular function assessment in echocardiography and cardiac MRI
Authors: Goyal Akash , Crabtree Christopher D. , Lee Bryan C. , Harfi Thura T. , Rajpal Saurabh , Yildiz Vedat O. , Simonetti Orlando P. , Tong Matthew S.
Published: April 2024

This study sought to evaluate the impact of severe obesity on image quality and ventricular function assessment in cardiovascular magnetic resonance (MRI) and trans-thoracic echocardiography (TTE). We studied 100 consecutive patients who underwent clinically indicated cardiac MRI and TTE studies within 12 months between July 2017 and December 2020; 50 (28 females and 22 males; 54.5 ± 18.7 years) with normal body mass index (BMI) (18.5–25 kg/m2) and 50 (21 females and 29 males; 47.2 ± 13.3 years) with severe obesity (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2). MRI and TTE image quality scores were compared within and across cohorts using a linear mixed model. Categorical left (LVF) and right (RVF) ventricular function were compared using Cohens Kappa statistic. Mean BMI for normal weight and obese cohorts were 22.2 ± 1.7 kg/m2 and 50.3 ± 5.9 kg/m2, respectively. Out of a possible 93 points, mean MRI image quality score was 91.5 ± 2.5 for patients with normal BMI, and 88.4 ± 5.5 for patients with severe obesity; least square (LS) mean difference 3.1, p = 0.460. TTE scores were 64.2 ± 13.6 for patients with normal BMI and 46.0 ± 12.9 for patients with severe obesity, LS mean difference 18.2, p < 0.001. Ventricular function agreement between modalities was worse in the obese cohort for both LVF (72% vs 80% agreement; kappa 0.53 vs 0.70, obese vs. normal BMI), and RVF (58% vs 72% agreement, kappa 0.18 vs 0.34, obese vs. normal BMI). Severe obesity had limited impact on cardiac MRI image quality, while obesity significantly degraded TTE image quality and ventricular function agreement with MRI.