bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LES of Premixed Turbulent Combustion Using Filtered Tabulated Chemistry
Authors: Bambauer Maximilian , Pfitzner Michael , Klein Markus
Published: July 2024

The filtered tabulated chemistry (FTACLES) approach utilizes data from pre-tabulated explicitly filtered 1D flame profiles for closure of the LES-filtered transport terms. Different methodologies are discussed to obtain a suitable progress variable c from detailed chemistry calculations of a methane/air flame. In this context, special focus is placed on the analytical modeling of the reaction source term using series of parameterized Gaussians. For increasing effective filter sizes in LES (i.e. including the flame thickening) the precise shape of the reaction rate profile becomes less and less relevant. In particular, it is shown that for one-step chemistry, a single Gaussian is sufficient to derive an explicitly expressible 1D flame profile with a prescribed laminar flame speed and thermal flame thickness. The resulting artificial flame profile is shown to have similarities with profiles based on carbon chemistry and detailed reaction mechanisms. Next, the behavior of the filtered c-transport equation is analyzed and several possible closure methods are compared for a wide range of filter widths. It is shown that the unclosed contribution of the filtered diffusion term can be combined with the subgrid convection term, thus simplifying the FTACLES formulation. The model is implemented in OpenFOAM and validated in 1D for a variety of LES filter sizes in combination with artificial flame thickening. A power-law-based wrinkling model is modified for use with artificial flame thickening and combined with the FTACLES model to enable 3D simulations of a premixed turbulent Bunsen burner. The comparison of 3D Large Eddy Bunsen flame simulations at increasing levels of turbulence intensity shows a good match to experimental results for most investigated cases. In addition, the results are mostly insensitive to the variation of the mesh size.
What is the hard spectral state in X-ray binaries? Insights from GRRMHD accretion flows simulations and polarization of their X-ray emission
Authors: Moscibrodzka M.
Published: July 2024

X-ray binaries are known to exhibit different spectral states which are often associated with different black hole accretion modes. The exact geometry and properties of these accretion modes is still uncertain. Recent IXPE measurements of linear polarization of X-ray emission in canonical X-ray binary system Cygnus X-1 allow us to test models for the hard spectral state of accretion in a unique way. We show that general relativistic radiative magnetohydrodynamic (GRRMHD) simulations of accreting stellar black hole in a hard X-ray state may be consistent with the new observational information. In the presented framework, where first-principle models have limited number of free parameters, the polarimetric X-ray observations put constraints on the viewing angle of the inner hot accretion flow.
Estimating the global root exudate carbon flux
Authors: Chari Nikhil R. , Tumber-Dávila Shersingh Joseph , Phillips Richard P. , Bauerle Taryn L. , Brunn Melanie , Hafner Benjamin D. , Klein Tamir , Obersteiner Sophie , Reay Michaela K. , Ullah Sami , Taylor Benton N.
Published: July 2024

Root exudation, the export of low-molecular weight organic carbon (C) from living plant roots to soil, influences microbial activity, nutrient availability, and ecosystem feedbacks to climate change, but the magnitude of this C flux at ecosystem and global scales is largely unknown. Here, we synthesize in situ measurements of root exudation rates and couple those to estimates of fine root biomass to estimate global and biome-level root exudate C fluxes. We estimate a global root exudate flux of 13.4 (10.1–20.2) Pg C y−1, or about 9% (7–14%) of global annual gross primary productivity. We did not find differences in root mass-specific exudation rates among biomes, though total exudate fluxes are estimated to be greatest in grasslands owing to their high density of absorptive root biomass. Our synthesis highlights the global importance of root exudates in the terrestrial C cycle and identifies regions where more in situ measurements are needed to improve future estimates of root exudate C fluxes.
Methodological Quality of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Treatment Evidence-Based Guidelines: A Systematic Review Using the AGREE II and AGREE REX Tools
Authors: Vilela Ana Paula Oliveira , Deffert Flávia , Lucchetta Rosa Camila , da Silva Pires Yara Maria , Mainka Felipe Fernando , Tonin Fernanda S. , Pontarolo Roberto
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a progressive disease with a poor prognosis, and its management should be grounded in well-developed clinical practice guidelines (CPG). Thus, we critically assess the methodological quality of the available CPG for pharmacological treatments for PAH.

Methods

A systematic review (CRD42023387168) was performed in PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, and Tripdatabase (Jan-2023). Eligible records were appraised by four reviewers using the Appraisal of Guidelines, Research, and Evaluation Collaboration tool (AGREE II) and the complementary tool for assessing recommendations’ quality and certainty, AGREE REX. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data.

Results

Overall, 31 guidelines, mainly authored by professional societies (90%), targeting only physicians as primary users (84%), were identified. Guidelines presented a moderate overall quality (scores of 63% and 51% in AGREE II and AGREE REX, respectively), with a few domains showing slight improvements over the years. AGREE II “Scope and Purpose” (94%) and “Presentation Clarity” (99%) domains obtained the highest scores. The items related to “Stakeholder involvement,” “Editorial independence,” and “Clinical applicability” (AGREE REX) were fairly reported. Conversely, CPG lacks rigor in development (32% score, AGREE II), scarcely discusses the role of stakeholders, and provides deficient data on the implementation of recommendations (scores of 35% and 46% in AGREE II and AGREE REX, respectively). No differences in the quality of guidelines published by different developers or countries were observed (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Methodological weaknesses are common among guidelines addressing PAH treatment, especially regarding scientific rigor, stakeholders’ values and preferences, and facilitators and barriers to implementability. Particular attention should be given to developing future guidelines.
Analysing the drivers for sustainable public procurement
Authors: Santos Felippe , Lozano Rodrigo , Barreiro-Gen Maria
Published: July 2024

Sustainable public procurement (SPP) is aimed at using government purchasing power to foster sustainable production and consumption and develop more sustainable business models. The implementation of SPP has been undertaken through several disciplinary approaches, including practical and research efforts based on organisational change management (OCM). Although there is a growing body of literature on OCM for SPP, research on this topic is still limited and mostly focused on a single-country context. This paper aims to fill this research gap by analysing the drivers for changes towards SPP from two different world regions. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with twelve Brazilian and ten Swedish SPP professionals. The interviews were analysed using Grounded Theory’s constant comparative method. From the interviews, 46 drivers were collated, then ranked in order of importance, and categorised according to their level (external, connecting, and internal). From the interviews, twenty-two new drivers were identified. The findings show that drivers for SPP are context-specific and can be organised in a continuum of change approaches between praxis-driven and policy-driven. This study highlights the contextual influence on drivers for the SPP process. A holistic approach is needed for changes towards SPP, considering internal, connecting, and external drivers in the spectrum from praxis to policy.
Metabolomics in sturgeon research: a mini-review
Authors: Liu Qi , Naganuma Takeshi
Published: July 2024

Sturgeons are ancient fish, with 27 species distributed in the Northern Hemisphere. This review first touches upon the significance of sturgeons in the context of their biological, ecological, and economic importance, highlighting their status as “living fossils” and the challenges they face in genomic research due to their diverse chromosome numbers. This review then discusses how omics technologies (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics) have been used in sturgeon research, which so far has only been done on Acipenser species. It focuses on metabolomics as a way to better understand how sturgeons work and how they react to their environment. Specific studies in sturgeon metabolomics are cited, showing how metabolomics has been used to investigate various aspects of sturgeon biology, such as growth, reproduction, stress responses, and nutrition. These studies demonstrate the potential of metabolomics in improving sturgeon aquaculture practices and conservation efforts. Overall, the review suggests that metabolomics, as a relatively new scientific tool, has the potential to enhance our understanding of sturgeon biology and aid in their conservation and sustainable aquaculture, contributing to global food security efforts.
Methylprednisolone Modulates the Tfr/Tfh ratio in EAE-Induced Neuroinflammation through the PI3K/AKT/FoxO1 and PI3K/AKT/mTOR Signalling Pathways
Authors: Wu Nan , Zhao Yun , Xiao Minjun , Liu Hui , Chen Hongliang , Liu Bin , Wang Xuezhen , Fan Xueli
Published: July 2024

Methylprednisolone (MP) is a potent glucocorticoid that can effectively inhibit immune system inflammation and brain tissue damage in Multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. T follicular helper (Tfh) cells are a subpopulation of activated CD4 + T cells, while T follicular regulatory (Tfr) cells, a novel subset of Treg cells, possess specialized abilities to suppress the Tfh-GC response and inhibit antibody production. Dysregulation of either Tfh or Tfr cells has been implicated in the pathogenesis of MS. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the anti-inflammatory effects of MP therapy on experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a representative model for MS, remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of MP treatment on EAE and elucidate the possible underlying molecular mechanisms involed. We evaluated the effects of MP on disease progression, CNS inflammatory cell infiltration and myelination, microglia and astrocyte activation, as well as Tfr/Tfh ratio and related molecules/inflammatory factors in EAE mice. Additionally, Western blotting was used to assess the expression of proteins associated with the PI3K/AKT pathway. Our findings demonstrated that MP treatment ameliorated clinical symptoms, inflammatory cell infiltration, and myelination. Furthermore, it reduced microglial and astrocytic activation. MP may increase the number of Tfr cells and the levels of cytokine TGF-β1, while reducing the number of Tfh cells and the levels of cytokine IL-21, as well as regulate the imbalanced Tfr/Tfh ratio in EAE mice. The PI3K/AKT/FoxO1 and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways were found to be involved in EAE development. However, MP treatment inhibited their activation. MP reduced neuroinflammation in EAE by regulating the balance between Tfr/Tfh cells via inhibition of the PI3K/AKT/FoxO1 and PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling pathways.
China’s New Pattern of Rule of Law on UAS
Authors: Zhang Luping
Published: July 2024

China as the world’s prominent market for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) has just passed a new regulation on UAS. The new regulation is expected to form a new pattern of rule of law on UAS in China. With the need for harmonisation of laws internationally, this article highlights the three aspects out of China’s new UAS legislation against an international setting.
Fear-setting: A Brief Writing Intervention Increases Motivation to Reach Personal Goals and Positive Affect
Authors: Dreisoerner Aljoscha , Heekerens Johannes Bodo , Karle Verena , Pawelkiewicz Janine Mendes
Published: July 2024

Striving towards personally meaningful goals is positively related to well-being. We investigate a brief writing intervention, instructing individuals to define and reappraise their fears related to personally meaningful goals and/or desired personal changes. 154 participants were randomized into a fear-setting writing intervention plus psychoeducation (n = 92), or a waitlist control group (n = 62). Participants filled out questionnaires at baseline, posttest, and 1-week follow-up. Latent change scores models revealed significantly larger increases in motivation to act (subscale perceived success probability, d = 0.27) and positive affect (d = 0.40) in the intervention compared to the control group from baseline to posttest. Results indicate that the effects persisted at the 1-week follow-up. In addition, we found a significant decrease in fear of failure (subscale fear of shame and embarrassment) from baseline to follow-up in the intervention condition (but not from baseline to the posttest). We found no significant effects of fear-setting for motivation to act (subscale fear of no success), fear of failure (subscale fear of devaluing one?s self-estimate), self-efficacy, negative affect, and optimism. This study provides initial evidence that fear-setting can assist people in changing motivation-related cognitive-affective states related to goal attainment and well-being.
Modification of the Metallic Magnetic Calorimeter Fabrication Process for High Production Yield
Authors: Song J. W. , Kim S. G. , Kim H. S. , Kim H. J. , Lee M. K.
Published: July 2024

We have modified the fabrication processes of metallic magnetic calorimeters (MMCs) to improve production yield. Key modifications include (i) the stress mitigation of the sputtered Nb film by optimizing the Argon deposition gas pressure, (ii) an optimized SiO$$_{\hbox {x}}$$

x

insulator layer fabrication by switching from a lift-off to a wet-etching method and controlling the optimizing the temperature, (iii) the joint electroplating of thick gold structures for persistent current switch leads and a thermalization layer, and (iv) a reduced sputter-deposition time of the Ag:Er sensor material by introducing a new wafer holder. These modifications contribute to increased production yield, reduced fabrication time, and enhanced overall performance. Tests on MMCs fabricated with these modifications demonstrated uniformly improved critical current of the Nb meander coils, enhanced SiO$$_{\hbox {x}}$$

x

insulation properties, strengthened persistent current switch systems, and reduced probability of Ag:Er oxidation. These modified MMC detectors also functioned well in tests for alpha spectrometry measurements, demonstrating good performance.
Metabolomic and lipidomic profiling of the spinal cord in type 2 diabetes mellitus rats with painful neuropathy
Authors: Yu Zhuoying , Yang Jing , Jiang Ye , Wei Min , Lyu Yanhan , Yang Dongsheng , Shen Shixiong , Han Yongzheng , Li Min
Published: July 2024

In this paper we investigated lipid and metabolite changes in diabetic neuropathy, using untargeted lipidomics and metabolomics analyses of the spinal cords from streptozotocin-treated diabetic rats.170 metabolites and 45 lipids were dysregulated in the painful diabetic neuropathy (PDN) phase. Pathway enrichment analysis revealed perturbations in starch and sucrose, tryptophan, pyrimidine, cysteine and methionine, thiamine, tyrosine, and nucleotides. The disturbance of tyrosine, tryptophan, methionine, triacylglycerol, and phosphatidylethanolamine metabolism indicated that pathological mechanisms in the PDN involved energy metabolism, oxidative stress, and neural reparative regeneration. These revelations offered potential biomarkers for PDN and enriched the comprehension of the complex molecular mechanisms characterizing PDN, establishing a solid foundation for subsequent inquiries into neural convalescence and recovery after PDN.
Property-level adaptation to pluvial flooding: An analysis of individual behaviour and risk communication material
Authors: Dillenardt Lisa , Bubeck Philip , Hudson Paul , Wutzler Bianca , Thieken Annegret H.
Published: July 2024

Integrated risk management requires all stakeholders to work together proactively. Residents of floodplains can participate by implementing property-level adaptive measures. Risk communication materials can motivate those households to do so. Research on these materials is limited. Therefore, we systematically assessed freely available German risk communication materials in terms of their recommendations and how their content aligns with behavioural theories. We compare these results with data from surveyed households affected by urban flooding (N = 1,352) on their attitudes towards flood adaptation and the adaptation measures implemented.

209 risk communication materials were reviewed. Adaptation options (mostly evasion or resistance strategies) were communicated in 93%, the hazard itself in 78%, the local hazard situation in 48%, and responsibilities in risk management in 54% of the risk communication materials. These aspects were rarely broken down for the reader by, for example, presenting the damage that can be expected or by presenting measures with the expected costs or their response efficacy. However, these details commonly increase the adaptive behaviour of residents according to commonly used behavioural theories.

Survey data indicated that households feel able (82%) and responsible (41%) for implementing adaptive measures. However, many households indicated that measures are not effective (41%), too expensive (34%), and that there are not enough support programs (87%). We recommend that future risk communication materials focus more on communicating the efficacy and costs of adaptive measures and highlight funding opportunities. Our mixed method approach highlighted mismatches in information needed and provided.
COECG-resnet-GWO-SVM: an optimized COVID-19 electrocardiography classification model based on resnet50, grey wolf optimization and support vector machine
Authors: Khalifa Nour Eldeen , Wang Wei , Mawgoud Ahmed A. , Zhang Yu-Dong
Published: July 2024

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has swiftly spread throughout the globe, causing widespread infection in various countries and regions, and was declared a pandemic by World Health Organization (WHO) in 2020. Computer algorithms and models can help in the identification and classification of the COVID-19 virus in the medical domain, especially in CT, and X-rays and Electrocardiography tests with rapid and accurate results. In this paper, a COVID-19 electrocardiography classification model based on grey wolf optimization and support vector machine will be presented. A public online electrocardiography dataset was investigated in this paper with two classes (COVID-19, and Normal. The proposed model consists of three phases. The first phase is the feature extraction based on Resnet50. The second phase is the feature selection based on grey wolf optimization. The third phase is the classification based on the support vector machine. The experimental trials show that the proposed model achieves the highest accuracy possible when it is compared with other models that use different feature extraction and selection models, such as Alexnet and whale optimization algorithms. Also, the proposed model achieves the highest testing accuracy possible with 99.1% while related work that used hexaxial feature mapping and deep learning achieved 96.20% with an improvement of 2.9%. The achieved testing accuracy and its performance metrics such as Precision, Recall, and F1 Score support the research findings that the proposed model, while achieving the highest accuracy possible, it also consumes less time in the training by selecting a minimum number of features if it is compared with other related works which use the same dataset.
Reduced protein carbonylation on hormone therapy is associated with improved fibrinolysis in postmenopausal women: the impact of PAI-1 and TAFI activity
Authors: Piróg Magdalena , Ząbczyk Michał , Natorska Joanna , Jach Robert , Undas Anetta
Published: July 2024

Hormone therapy (HT) has been reported to reduce protein carbonylation (PC) in postmenopausal women, in whom fibrinolysis is impaired. We investigated whether PC affects fibrinolysis and if HT modulates this effect. We enrolled 150 women aged 55.5 ± 4.7 years in a randomized interventional open-label study, including 50 on standard oral HT, 50 on ultra-low-dose HT, and 50 controls. PC, along with global fibrinolysis (clot lysis time, CLT), fibrinolysis proteins, and prothrombotic markers were determined at baseline and at 24 weeks. Patients with the baseline top quartile PC (> 2.07 nM/mg protein) had 10.3% longer CLT, higher activity (but not antigen) of TAFI (+ 19.9%) and PAI-1 (+ 68.1%) compared to the remainder. No differences were observed in thrombin generation, factor VIII, plasminogen or α2-antiplasmin. On-treatment PC decreased by 16.4% (p < 0.0001), without differences related to the type of HT, compared to baseline and by 30% compared to controls, in whom PC and fibrinolysis markers remained unchanged. Patients with PC > 2.07 nM/mg had shortened CLT during HT compared to baseline, along with lower PAI-1 (-69%) and TAFI (-26%) activity. In this subgroup CLT was 5.8% shorter compared to controls with the highest PC. In postmenopausal women with increased PC, HT was accompanied by PC reduction and faster clot lysis together with decreased PAI-1 and TAFI activity.
Phylogenetic Diversity Indices from an Affine and Projective Viewpoint
Authors: Moulton V. , Spillner A. , Wicke K.
Published: July 2024

Phylogenetic diversity indices are commonly used to rank the elements in a collection of species or populations for conservation purposes. The derivation of these indices is typically based on some quantitative description of the evolutionary history of the species in question, which is often given in terms of a phylogenetic tree. Both rooted and unrooted phylogenetic trees can be employed, and there are close connections between the indices that are derived in these two different ways. In this paper, we introduce more general phylogenetic diversity indices that can be derived from collections of subsets (clusters) and collections of bipartitions (splits) of the given set of species. Such indices could be useful, for example, in case there is some uncertainty in the topology of the tree being used to derive a phylogenetic diversity index. As well as characterizing some of the indices that we introduce in terms of their special properties, we provide a link between cluster-based and split-based phylogenetic diversity indices that uses a discrete analogue of the classical link between affine and projective geometry. This provides a unified framework for many of the various phylogenetic diversity indices used in the literature based on rooted and unrooted phylogenetic trees, generalizations and new proofs for previous results concerning tree-based indices, and a way to define some new phylogenetic diversity indices that naturally arise as affine or projective variants of each other or as generalizations of tree-based indices.
Experimental study on manufacturing of vacuum-brazed grinding tools with diamond grains
Authors: Pahmeyer Rebecca , Stribick Sascha
Published: July 2024

This work provides an experimental study on manufacturing methods for vacuum-brazed diamond grinding for edge machining of carbon fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRP). Therefore, various methods for applying active brazing alloys and diamond grains were investigated. The application methods were evaluated regarding practicability and the possibility of automation. Additionally, the samples were examined after vacuum brazing and brazing results were compared concerning method, amount and type of brazing alloy, diamond grains and binding agent. It was found that the best results could be achieved by using fluidized bed coating for diamond application and a brazing alloy containing a 15% binding agent. The method and brazing alloy were then used to produce cylindrical mounted points for grinding tests. It was possible to show that vacuum-brazed tools performed as good as commercially available electroplated tools.
2D vs. 3D Evaluation of Osteocyte Lacunae - Methodological Approaches, Recommended Parameters, and Challenges: A Narrative Review by the European Calcified Tissue Society (ECTS)
Authors: vom Scheidt Annika , Krug Johannes , Goggin Patricia , Bakker Astrid Diana , Busse Björn
Published: July 2024

Purpose of Review

Quantification of the morphology of osteocyte lacunae has become a powerful tool to investigate bone metabolism, pathologies and aging. This review will provide a brief overview of 2D and 3D imaging methods for the determination of lacunar shape, orientation, density, and volume. Deviations between 2D-based and 3D-based lacunar volume estimations are often not sufficiently addressed and may give rise to contradictory findings. Thus, the systematic error arising from 2D-based estimations of lacunar volume will be discussed, and an alternative calculation proposed. Further, standardized morphological parameters and best practices for sampling and segmentation are suggested.

Recent Findings

We quantified the errors in reported estimation methods of lacunar volume based on 2D cross-sections, which increase with variations in lacunar orientation and histological cutting plane. The estimations of lacunar volume based on common practice in 2D imaging methods resulted in an underestimation of lacunar volume of up to 85% compared to actual lacunar volume in an artificial dataset. For a representative estimation of lacunar size and morphology based on 2D images, at least 400 lacunae should be assessed per sample.
Freedom of Religion and Non-discrimination Based on Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation in Ukraine: Corporate Policy Commitments in Situations of Conflicting Social Expectations
Authors: Horbachevska Tamara , Uvarova Olena , Vovk Dmytro
Published: July 2024

Conflicting social expectations in a particular state affect the interpretation and implementation of international human rights law. Ideological, religious, and legal factors related to the protection of freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) and freedom from discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) in Ukraine put businesses under social pressure. Businesses thus face a legitimate dilemma whether to follow national social expectations perceiving FoRB and freedom from discrimination based on SOGI as rights in conflict or expectations arising from international human rights law establishing both freedoms as equal and non-clashing. Based on desk research and in-depth interviews with business policymakers the article identifies neutrality, ignoring, and active engagement strategies when providing corporate respect to FoRB and SOGI under the business and human rights framework ‘Protect, Respect, Remedy’ which requires responsible business conduct. The article concludes with the implications each strategy has for resolving presumed clashes between FoRB and SOGI at the community level.
Internalized homonegativity and mental health among sexual minority couples and parents
Authors: Shenkman Geva , Ifrah Kfir , Shaia Yuval , Lusky Maya , Samahov Or , Wiener Matan
Published: July 2024

This study examined the indirect effect of relationship and parental status on mental health through internalized homonegativity among lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) individuals. Prior research suggested that being in a relationship and becoming a parent may improve the mental health of LGB individuals, acting as protective factors against stigma and discrimination. However, the role of internalized homonegativity in mental health disparities between LGB individuals in relationships/parents and those who are not remains unclear. Therefore, we surveyed 491 LGB cisgender Israelis aged 18–64 years (M = 33.51, SD = 9.09) assessing relationship status, parental status, internalized homonegativity, depressive symptomatology, and life satisfaction. Indirect effects were explored using the PROCESS macro. Results showed that LGB individuals in romantic relationships reported lower depressive symptomatology and higher life satisfaction compared to those not in relationships. Similarly, LGB individuals who were parents reported lower depressive symptomatology and higher life satisfaction compared to non-parents. Significant indirect effect was found for couplehood/parenthood on depressive symptomatology/life satisfaction through internalized homonegativity. This study deepens the understanding of the interplay between couplehood, parenthood, and internalized homonegativity and their contribution to mental health of LGB individuals. It provides valuable insights for researchers and practitioners, highlighting the potential role of couplehood and parenthood in the mental health of sexual minority groups facing legal restrictions on marriage and parenting.
Morphological Features of the Vertebrobasilar System Predict Ischemic Stroke Risk in Spontaneous Vertebral Artery Dissection
Authors: Bao Jiajia , Bai Mateng , Zhou Muke , Fang Jinghuan , Li Yanbo , Guo Jian , He Li
Published: July 2024

The vertebral artery’s morphological characteristics are crucial in spontaneous vertebral artery dissection (sVAD). We aimed to investigate morphologic features related to ischemic stroke (IS) and develop a novel prediction model. Out of 126 patients, 93 were finally analyzed. We constructed 3D models and morphological analyses. Patients were randomly classified into training and validation cohorts (3:1 ratio). Variables selected by LASSO — including five morphological features and five clinical characteristics — were used to develop prediction model in the training cohort. The model exhibited a high area under the curve (AUC) of 0.944 (95%CI, 0.862–0.984), with internal validation confirming its consistency (AUC = 0.818, 95%CI, 0.597–0.948). Decision curve analysis (DCA) indicated clinical usefulness. Morphological features significantly contribute to risk stratification in sVAD patients. Our novel developed model, combining interdisciplinary parameters, is clinically useful for predicting IS risk. Further validation and in-depth research into the hemodynamics related to sVAD are necessary.
Quality of life in women with breast cancer undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy: comparison between PICC and PICC-port
Authors: Pinelli Fulvio , Barbani Francesco , Defilippo Barbara , Fundarò Angela , Nella Alessandra , Selmi Valentina , Romagnoli Stefano , Villa Gianluca
Published: July 2024

Background

Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) and new type of arm-port, the PICC-port, are currently used for neoadjuvant chemotherapy treatment in patients with breast cancer. We aimed to compare Quality of Life (QoL) of patients receiving one of these two devices investigating overall satisfaction, psychological impact, as well as the impact on professional, social and sport activities, and local discomfort.

Methods

We did a prospective observational before–after study of PICCs versus PICC-ports. Adult (aged ≥ 18 years) females with breast cancer candidate to neoadjuvant chemotherapy were included. The primary outcome was QoL according to the Quality-of-Life Assessment Venous Device Catheters (QLAVD) questionnaire assessed 12 months after device implantation.

Results

Between May 2019 and November 2020, of 278 individuals screened for eligibility, 210 were enrolled. PICC-ports were preferred over PICCs with a QLAVD score of 29 [25; 32] vs 31 [26; 36.5] (p = 0.014). Specifically, most QLAVD constructs related to psychological impact, social aspects, and discomfort were in favor of PICC-ports vs PICC, especially in women under the age of 60. Overall, pain scores at insertion and during therapy administration were not significantly different between the two groups, as well as infection, secondary malpositioning, thrombosis, or obstruction of the device.

Conclusions

In women with breast cancer undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy, PICC-ports were overall better accepted than PICCs in terms of QoL, especially in those who were younger. Device-related complications were similar.
Smart manufacturing platform based on input-output empirical relationships for process monitoring
Authors: Ambrogio Giuseppina , Filice Luigino , Gagliardi Francesco
Published: July 2024

Intelligent monitoring and maintenance protocols are undoubtedly crucial for improving manufacturing processes. Accordingly, machine learning techniques and predictive control models have been customized and optimized to account for the specific characteristics of the processes under investigation. In this context, the management of manufacturing processes in a “smart way” requires the development of specific models based on input-output empirical data. The aim of the proposed research was to develop an easily customizable application integrated into a milling process executed at the laboratory level. The application was designed to identify and record the operator, the order and the specific work sequences. It also supports the operator in setting processing parameters according to the type of work sequence to be performed. The application analyses specific process outputs, such as the wear growth on the inserts of the cutter in relation to the main input process parameters: depth of cut, feed rate, and spindle speed. This analysis is implemented by leveraging empirical evidence.
Plattenepithelkarzinom der Haut
Authors: Krecu Maximilian , Kölblinger Peter
Published: July 2024

Das Plattenepithelkarzinom (PEK) ist nach dem Basalzellkarzinom der zweithäufigste bösartige Hauttumor und macht ca. 20 % der nichtmelanozytären Hautkrebsfälle aus. Es entsteht durch maligne Transformation der Keratinozyten der Epidermis und der nichtverhornenden hautnahen Schleimhäute meist aus typischen In-situ-Vorläuferläsionen wie der aktinischen Keratose, der aktinischen Cheilitis und dem M. Bowen. UV-Strahlung fungiert als wichtigster karzinogener Stimulus, woraus sich das typische Verteilungsmuster mit 80 % aller PEK auf UV-exponierter Haut ableitet. Zu ca. 95 % ist das PEK ein lokalisiertes Geschehen. Die Metastasierung erfolgt selten und meist lymphogen, kann in Risikogruppen jedoch bis zu 20 % betragen. Prognostische Risikofaktoren sind Tumordicke, Invasionstiefe, Lokalisation an Schleimhaut, Ohr, Schläfe, oder Anogenitalregion sowie ein niedriger Differenzierungsgrad und die perineurale Invasion. Erstlinientherapie ist die Exzision mit Sicherheitsabstand, wobei sich in Problemzonen oder bei unklaren Tumorgrenzen ein mehrzeitiges Vorgehen anbietet. Bei Lymphknotenbeteiligung ist eine regionäre Lymphknotendissektion empfohlen. Eine Radiotherapie kann alleinig oder in Kombination mit der chirurgischen Therapie in adjuvanter, kurativer oder palliativer Indikation zum Einsatz kommen. Im Fall eines lokalen/lokoregionären Rezidiv stellt neben der chirurgischen und Strahlentherapie auch die Elektrochemotherapie eine Alternative dar. Medikamentös werden bei fortgeschrittener Erkrankung die PD-1-Antikörper Cemiplimab sowie der EGFR-Antikörper Cetuximab eingesetzt. Bei Therapieversagen bieten Kombinationstherapien mit EGFR-Blockade und Platinderivaten weitere Möglichkeiten. Gegenstand aktueller Forschung sind der neoadjuvante Einsatz von Cemiplimab, die Kombination von EGFR-Inhibitoren mit Checkpoint-Blockade und intraläsionale Therapieansätze.
Elemental distributions in the marine sediments off Doha, Qatar: role of urbanisation and coastal dynamics
Authors: Hasna Varis Mohammed , Aboobacker Valliyil Mohammed , Dib Samah , Izza Ayisha , Yigiterhan Oguz , Al-Ansari Ebrahim M.A.S. , Vethamony Ponnumony
Published: July 2024

This research investigates the present status and decadal variability of element distributions in the marine sediments off Doha, on the east coast of Qatar. Twenty elements were considered from 11 sediment sampling stations and 3 dust sampling stations by grouping them into major elements, toxic elements, and other trace elements. The results show elevated concentrations of certain toxic and trace elements, including Ba, Be, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mg, V, Zn, Mg, and Ti, in the nearshore region, primarily influenced by the settling of dissolved elements under weak hydrodynamic circulations in the Doha Bay. The relatively higher currents in offshore enable quick advection and dispersion of the elements. On the other hand, the dust deposits have caused significant contributions to the Al, As, Mg, Ca, Sr, Fe, Zn, and Cd concentrations. Decadal variability is evident in element concentrations, which are linked to the urbanisation of the capital city in the State of Qatar. The Cu, Ni, V, Zn, and Cd concentrations indicate a notable increase in recent years compared to the last two decades, with values of about 20.7, 17.9, 25.0, 25.9, 0.66 ppm in 2022. In contrast, a few other elements fluctuate between the decades/years. The results pointed out the increased elemental concentrations in the bay due to the vast expansion of infrastructure facilities in the vicinity of Doha Bay in recent years. The Geoaccumulation Index resulted in a slight pollution of Cd, while other elements are unpolluted. The Degree of Contamination reveals low degree of contamination of sediments, and the Pollution Load Index illustrates no significant pollution in the sediments off Doha.
Analysis of tumor abnormal protein expression and epidermal growth factor receptor mutation status in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Cheng Yuanjun , Chen Bin , Fang Qianru , Zang Guohui , Yao Jie
Published: July 2024

Background

The level of tumor abnormal protein (TAP) level has a significant impact on tumor growth, recurrence, and metastasis. Previous studies have highlighted the influence of the mutations in exons 19 and 21 of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), particularly the sensitivity displayed by tumor cells to epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI) therapy. Our study is centered on exploring the clinical relevance of TAP and EGFR mutations in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Material and methods

In this study, tissue samples were collected from a total of 176 patients diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Real-time PCR technology was utilized to detect mutations within exons 19 and 21 of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene in these samples. This approach enables precise identification of EGFR mutations associated with NSCLC. Furthermore, the study investigated the impact of various tumor markers, including tumor abnormal protein (TAP) and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), on EGFR mutation status. Established assays were employed to evaluate TAP and CEA levels, aiming to ascertain their potential correlation with EGFR mutation in NSCLC patients.

Results

EGFR exhibited mutation rates of 23.86% and 12.50% in exons 19 and 21, respectively. EGFR mutations were more prevalent in younger women (< 60 years old) and in cases with pleural invasion, vessel invasion, CEA > 6.5 ng/mL, and TAP > 228 µm2 for both genders. Increased TAP levels independently predicted EGFR mutations (P = 0.001 for males; P = 0.000 for females). An area under the curve (AUC) of 0.833 indecated EGFR mutation prediction with sensitivity and specificity of 79.7% and 87.0%, respectively. For females, the sensitivity increased to 89.7% and specificity increased to 93.8%.

Conclusions

TAP effectively predicts EGFR mutations in NSCLC patients with moderate accuracy, particularly benefiting diagnosis in females with high sensitivity and specificity. Integrating TAP assessment into EGFR mutation testing can significantly enhance diagnostic precision, especially in female NSCLC cases.
Investigation of prognostic values of immune infiltration and LGMN expression in the microenvironment of osteosarcoma
Authors: Xu Hualiang , Xu Dawei , Zheng Yinfeng , Wang Huajun , Li Aiguo , Zheng Xiaofei
Published: July 2024

Background

Osteosarcoma (OS), the most common primary malignant bone tumor, predominantly affects children and young adults and is characterized by high invasiveness and poor prognosis. Despite therapeutic advancements, the survival rate remains suboptimal, indicating an urgent need for novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets. This study aimed to investigate the prognostic significance of LGMN expression and immune cell infiltration in the tumor microenvironment of OS.

Methods

We performed an integrative bioinformatics analysis utilizing the GEO and TARGET-OS databases to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with LGMN in OS. We conducted Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) to explore the biological pathways and functions. Additionally, we constructed protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks, a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network, and applied the CIBERSORT algorithm to quantify immune cell infiltration. The diagnostic and prognostic values of LGMN were evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and Cox regression analysis. Furthermore, we employed Consensus Clustering Analysis to explore the heterogeneity within OS samples based on LGMN expression.

Results

The analysis revealed significant upregulation of LGMN in OS tissues. DEGs were enriched in immune response and antigen processing pathways, suggesting LGMN's role in immune modulation within the TME. The PPI and ceRNA network analyses provided insights into the regulatory mechanisms involving LGMN. Immune cell infiltration analysis indicated a correlation between high LGMN expression and increased abundance of M2 macrophages, implicating an immunosuppressive role. The diagnostic AUC for LGMN was 0.799, demonstrating its potential as a diagnostic biomarker. High LGMN expression correlated with reduced overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). Importantly, Consensus Clustering Analysis identified two distinct subtypes of OS, highlighting the heterogeneity and potential for personalized medicine approaches.

Conclusions

Our study underscores the prognostic value of LGMN in osteosarcoma and its potential as a therapeutic target. The identification of LGMN-associated immune cell subsets and the discovery of distinct OS subtypes through Consensus Clustering Analysis provide new avenues for understanding the immunosuppressive TME of OS and may aid in the development of personalized treatment strategies. Further validation in larger cohorts is warranted to confirm these findings.
Thymoma resection and myasthenia gravis: what is the neurological outcome in patients older than 65 years?
Authors: Lococo Filippo , Sassorossi Carolina , Maurizi Giulio , Santoro Gloria , Iorio Raffaele , Falso Silvia , Meacci Elisa , Napolitano Antonio Giulio , Congedo Maria Teresa , Cusumano Giacomo , Trabalza Marinucci Beatrice , Argento Giacomo , Chiappetta Marco , Rendina Erino Angelo , Margaritora Stefano
Published: July 2024

To increase the neurological results in patients older than 65 years with myasthenia gravis after thymectomy, we retrospectively analysed this outcome in a large bicentric cohort of patients with myasthenia gravis (MG)years, for which surgery was indicated for a concurrent thymoma. From 1/2000 to 2/2022, 502 patients underwent thymectomy for thymic epithelial tumours (TETs) in two high-volume Institutions (167aged more than 65 years). Among them, 66 patients were affected by TET and MG, representing our final study group. The mean age for MG onset was 68.3 ± 6 years.At surgery, the Osserman score 2 was the most diffuse in our cohort (43, 65.1%), followed by 1 (20, 30.3%). In 11 cases, the MG diagnosis coincided with thymoma diagnosis. In the other cases, the interval between MG diagnosis and surgery was 1.7 years ± 1.9. The most common surgical approach was sternotomy (41,62.1%), followed by RATS (14,21.2%). The most frequent TNM stage was T1N0 (75.7%) and most patients had WHO type-B tumour. After radical thymectomy, 58 patients (88%) reported a significant neurological improvement. According to MGFA-PIS, after surgery we had 4 (6%) complete stable remission, 11 (16.7%) pharmacological remission, 43 (65.2%) minimal manifestation, 2 (3%) worsening/death for MG, and 5 (7.6%) unchanged. No association was found between neurological outcome and age of MG onset, kind of pharmacological therapy before surgery, surgical approach (sternotomy vs others), tumour dimension, the ITMIG stage and the preoperative Osserman score. For MG and thymoma-afftected patients over 65 years, thymectomy seems to be an effective treatment to improve neurological symptoms. We suggest to set up clinical trials to explore the neurological efficacy of mini-invasive thymectomy in clinically selected MG patients aged over 65 years.
Pseudospectral analysis for multidimensional fractional Burgers equation based on Caputo fractional derivative
Authors: Singh Harvindra , Mittal A. K. , Balyan L. K.
Published: July 2024

This study presents the Chebyshev pseudospectral approach in time and space to approximate a solution to the time-fractional multidimensional Burgers equation. The suggested approach utilizes Chebyshev–Gauss–Lobatto (CGL) points in both spatial and temporal directions. To figure out the fractional derivative matrix at CGL points, we use the Caputo fractional derivative formula. Further, the Chebyshev fractional derivative matrix is utilized to reduce the given problem in an algebraic system of equations. The numerical approach known as the Newton–Raphson is implemented to get the desired results for the system. Error analysis for the set of values of $$ \nu $$
ν
is done for various model examples of fractional Burgers equations, where $$\nu $$
ν
represents the fractional order. The computed numerical results are in perfect agreement with the exact solutions.
Child Abuse and Neglect and Obsessive–Compulsive Personality Traits: Effects of Attachment, Intolerance of Uncertainty, and Metacognition
Authors: Gray Emily , Sweller Naomi , Boag Simon
Published: July 2024

Child Abuse and Neglect (CAN) is extensively implicated as a risk factor preceding the development of Obsessive–Compulsive Personality Traits (OCPT). Nevertheless, the majority of individuals with a history of CAN do not go on to develop OCPT. To date, little research has investigated potential model networks that may help contribute to explaining why CAN sometimes leads to OCPT and not at other times. Thus, this study aimed to investigate whether attachment-anxiety, intolerance of uncertainty, and metacognition have indirect effects in the association between CAN and OCPT in various network models. Undergraduate psychology students (N = 291) participated in an anonymous 30-min online survey consisting of a series of self-report questionnaires regarding child abuse and neglect, attachment, intolerance of uncertainty, metacognition, OCPT, and depression. Bootstrapped serial mediation revealed attachment-anxiety and intolerance of uncertainty had a serial-mediation effect in the association between CAN and OCPT. Serial mediation was not found for metacognition and attachment-anxiety. However, metacognition alone mediated between child emotional abuse and OCPT. These findings expand our currently limited knowledge regarding the etiology of OCPT and suggest that attachment-anxiety, intolerance of uncertainty, and metacognition may be important contributors for understanding the development of OCPT following CAN exposure. The potential clinical utility for both assessment and treatment are discussed.