bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The potential impact of coagulation factor XIII in trauma-induced coagulopathy – a retrospective case series analysis
Authors: Wilhelmi Michaela , Albrecht Alexander , Macke Christian , Wilhelmi Mathias , Omar Mohammed , Winkelmann Marcel , Clausen Jan-Dierk
Published: January 2023

Background

The role of factor XIII (FXIII) in trauma-induced coagulopathy (TIC) is not fully understood.

Methods

We evaluated FXIII supplementation in severely injured patients with persistent bleeding. This was a retrospective case series analysis.

Results

Twenty-four patients received FXIII concentrate within 24 h of admission for bleeding that continued after transfusion of > 6 U red blood cells (RBCs); control patients (n = 27) did not receive FXIII concentrate. Both study groups were similar regarding injury severity score and global coagulation tests, but FXIII activity levels were significantly higher and lactate levels significantly lower in the control group, respectively. The differences in FXIII activity between the groups could be attributed to a more severe trauma-induced coagulopathy in FXIII-deficient patients, as demonstrated by lower fibrinogen and higher lactate levels. The median dose of FXIII concentrate within 24 h of admission was 2500 IU (IQR: 1250–4375). Median 24-h transfusion of RBCs (primary study endpoint) was significantly higher in the FXIII group versus controls (10.0 U, IQR 5–14 U vs. 2, IQR 0–6 U; p < 0.01). Subsequently, while patients were in the intensive care unit, there was no statistically significant difference regarding RBC transfusion anymore and the overall clinical outcomes were similar in both patient groups.

Conclusions

The substitution of FXIII in patients who were more seriously compromised due to higher lactate levels and who presented with initially more severe bleedings than patients in the control group, resulted in a comparable transfusion necessity after 24 h. Thus, we guess that the substitution of FXIII in severely injured patients with ongoing bleeding might have an impact on their clinical outcome.
50 years of rice breeding in Bangladesh: genetic yield trends
Authors: Rahman Niaz Md. Farhat , Malik Waqas Ahmed , Kabir Md. Shahjahan , Baten Md. Azizul , Hossain Md. Ismail , Paul Debi Narayan Rudra , Ahmed Rokib , Biswas Partha Sarathi , Rahman Md. Chhiddikur , Rahman Md. Sazzadur , Iftekharuddaula Khandakar Md. , Hadasch Steffen , Schmidt Paul , Islam Md. Rafiqul , Rahman Md. Akhlasur , Atlin Gary N. , Piepho Hans-Peter
Published: January 2023

To assess the efficiency of genetic improvement programs, it is essential to assess the genetic trend in long-term data. The present study estimates the genetic trends for grain yield of rice varieties released between 1970 and 2020 by the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute. The yield of the varieties was assessed from 2001–2002 to 2020–2021 in multi-locations trials. In such a series of trials, yield may increase over time due to (i) genetic improvement (genetic trend) and (ii) improved management or favorable climate change (agronomic/non-genetic trend). In both the winter and monsoon seasons, we observed positive genetic and non-genetic trends. The annual genetic trend for grain yield in both winter and monsoon rice varieties was 0.01 t ha−1, while the non-genetic trend for both seasons was 0.02 t ha−1, corresponding to yearly genetic gains of 0.28% and 0.18% in winter and monsoon seasons, respectively. The overall percentage yield change from 1970 until 2020 for winter rice was 40.96%, of which 13.91% was genetic trend and 27.05% was non-genetic. For the monsoon season, the overall percentage change from 1973 until 2020 was 38.39%, of which genetic and non-genetic increases were 8.36% and 30.03%, respectively. Overall, the contribution of non-genetic trend is larger than genetic trend both for winter and monsoon seasons. These results suggest that limited progress has been made in improving yield in Bangladeshi rice breeding programs over the last 50 years. Breeding programs need to be modernized to deliver sufficient genetic gains in the future to sustain Bangladeshi food security.
HDR image-based deep learning approach for automatic detection of split defects on sheet metal stamping parts
Authors: Singh Aru Ranjan , Bashford-Rogers Thomas , Marnerides Demetris , Debattista Kurt , Hazra Sumit
Published: January 2023

Sheet metal stamping is widely used for high-volume production. Despite the wide adoption, it can lead to defects in the manufactured components, making their quality unacceptable. Because of the variety of defects that can occur on the final product, human inspectors are frequently employed to detect them. However, they can be unreliable and costly, particularly at speeds that match the stamping rate. In this paper, we propose an automatic inspection framework for the stamping process that is based on computer vision and deep learning techniques. The low cost, remote sensing capability and simple implementation mean that it can be easily deployed in an industrial setting. A particular focus of this research is to account for the harsh lighting conditions and the highly reflective nature of products found in manufacturing environments that affect optical sensing techniques by making it difficult to capture the details of a scene. High dynamic range images can capture details of an environment in harsh lighting conditions, and in the context of this work, can capture highly reflective metals found in sheet metal stamping manufacturing. Building on this imaging technique, we propose a framework including a deep learning model to detect defects in sheet metal stamping parts. To test the framework, sheet metal ‘Nakajima’ samples were pressed with an industrial stamping press. Then optimally exposed, sequence of exposures, tone-mapped and high dynamic range images of the samples were used to train convolutional neural network-based detectors. Analysis of the resulting models showed that high dynamic range image-based models achieved substantially higher accuracy and minimal false-positive predictions.
Effects of mesenchymal stem cells and heparan sulfate mimetics on urethral function and vaginal wall biomechanics in a simulated rat childbirth injury model
Authors: Janssen Kristine , van Ruiten Geertruida W. , Eijkelkamp Niels , Damaser Margot S. , van der Vaart Carl H.
Published: January 2023

Introduction and hypothesis

New treatments are needed for pelvic floor disorders. ReGeneraTing Agent® (RGTA®) is a promising regenerative therapy. Therefore, the objective of this study was to compare regenerative abilities of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and RGTA® on regeneration after simulated childbirth injury in rats.

Methods

Rats underwent pudendal nerve crush and vaginal distension (PNC+VD) or sham injury. Rats that underwent PNC+VD were treated intravenously with vehicle, MSCs or RGTA® 1 h, 7 days, and 14 days after surgery. Sham rats received 1 ml vehicle at all time points. After 21 days, urethral function and pudendal nerve function were tested. Vaginal tissues were harvested for biomechanical testing and histology. Biaxial testing was performed to measure tissue stiffness.

Results

PNC+VD decreased urethral and pudendal nerve function compared with sham. Vaginal wall stiffness was significantly decreased in longitudinal and transverse tissue axes after PNC+VD compared with sham. MSC or RGTA® did not restore urethral or pudendal nerve function. However, MSC treatment resolved loss in vaginal wall stiffness in both tissue axes and improved collagen content within the vaginal wall. RGTA® treatment increased vaginal wall anisotropy by increasing relative stiffness in the longitudinal direction. PNC+VD (with vehicle or MSCs) enhanced elastogenesis, which was not observed after RGTA® treatment.

Conclusions

Treatment with MSCs facilitated recovery of vaginal wall biomechanical properties and connective tissue composition after PNC+VD, whereas treatment with RGTA® resulted in anisotropic biomechanical changes. This indicates that MSCs and RGTA® promote different aspects of vaginal tissue regeneration after simulated childbirth injury.
Subjective outcomes 12 years after transvaginal mesh versus native tissue repair in women with recurrent pelvic organ prolapse; a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kluivers Kirsten B. , Kamping Metteke , Milani Alfredo L. , IntHout Joanna , Withagen Mariella I.
Published: January 2023

Introduction and hypothesis

The present study describes an extended follow-up study after 12 years and focusses on subjective outcomes of women who underwent surgery for recurrent pelvic organ prolapse in the randomized index study.

Methods

One hundred and ninety-four (194) women had been randomized in the original study and in the present study, 45 (47%) in the vaginal mesh repair versus 43 (43%) women with conventional vaginal native tissue repair completed the long-term questionnaires. The mesh used was a first-generation non-absorbable mesh kit. All types of conventional vaginal native tissue repairs were allowed, and additional vaginal native tissue repairs were allowed in the mesh group. The questionnaires as applied at baseline were used. The Patient Global Impression of Improvement questionnaire (PGI-I) was the primary outcome.

Results

At 12 years, 30 (71%) women in the mesh group versus 23 (59%) women in the native tissue repair group reported to be PGI-I (very) much improved (p=0.24). There were no differences found in any of the questionnaire domains. There was, however, a higher number of women who had had additional operations for recurrent pelvic organ prolapse, stress urinary incontinence, and/or exposure in the mesh group: 18 women (40%) in the mesh group versus 8 women (19%) in the native tissue repair group (p=0.03).

Conclusions

There was no difference in subjective outcome between the groups, but there was a statistically significant higher number of women who had needed further operations. This study confirms that vaginal mesh should not be used in all women with recurrent pelvic organ prolapse.
A self-oscillating series-none inductive power transfer system using a matrix converter
Authors: Kusumah Ferdi Perdana , Kyyrä Jorma , Martinez Wilmar
Published: January 2023

Power density and conversion efficiency are two critical parameters of inductive power transfer (IPT) systems. These parameters are related to the number of components in the power conversion circuit as well as its modulation method. The combination of Midpoint Matrix Converter and pulse-density modulation (PDM) has a potential to improve these parameters, due to a low number of semiconductor switches utilization as well as constant efficiency at the maximum output and partial load operations . In this context, this paper analyzes the performance of a three-phase to single-phase Midpoint Matrix Converter using a Free-wheeling Switch (MMCFS) and the PDM in a high coupling factor series-none IPT application. This converter utilizes on–off control to manage power transfer, which automatically tracks the load resonant frequency. Dynamic and steady-state mathematical equations were derived to represent the converter and the IPT system characteristics. These equations show a relationship between the link efficiency, the link gain, the damping ratio and the coupling factor. A kick-start method and a multistep switching strategy were developed to start and operate the converter, respectively. Additionally, a 150 W MMCFS-based IPT prototype was built to verify the improvement, which demonstrated an efficiency of around 80% at the maximum output and partial load operations.
Systematic comparison of transcriptomes of Caco-2 cells cultured under different cellular and physiological conditions
Authors: Elzinga Janneke , Grouls Menno , Hooiveld Guido J. E. J. , van der Zande Meike , Smidt Hauke , Bouwmeester Hans
Published: January 2023

There is a need for standardized in vitro models emulating the functionalities of the human intestinal tract to study human intestinal health without the use of laboratory animals. The Caco-2 cell line is a well-accepted and highly characterized intestinal barrier model, which has been intensively used to study intestinal (drug) transport, host–microbe interactions and chemical or drug toxicity. This cell line has been cultured in different in vitro models, ranging from simple static to complex dynamic microfluidic models. We aimed to investigate the effect of these different in vitro experimental variables on gene expression. To this end, we systematically collected and extracted data from studies in which transcriptome analyses were performed on Caco-2 cells grown on permeable membranes. A collection of 13 studies comprising 100 samples revealed a weak association of experimental variables with overall as well as individual gene expression. This can be explained by the large heterogeneity in cell culture practice, or the lack of adequate reporting thereof, as suggested by our systematic analysis of experimental parameters not included in the main analysis. Given the rapidly increasing use of in vitro cell culture models, including more advanced (micro) fluidic models, our analysis reinforces the need for improved, standardized reporting protocols. Additionally, our systematic analysis serves as a template for future comparative studies on in vitro transcriptome and other experimental data.
Assessment of the levels of termination of the conus medullaris and thecal sac in the pediatric population
Authors: Blaaza Mohammed , Figueira Carolina Filipa Chaves , Ramali Mohamed Rashad , McNamara Cillian , Severino Mariasavina , Tortora Domenico , Mankad Kshitij , Rossi Andrea
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This study assessed the position of the termination of the conus medullaris (the point where the spinal cord tapers to an end) and thecal sac (the sheath of dura mater that surrounds the spinal cord and caudal nerve roots) in a large pediatric population, to characterise the nature of the pediatric Gaussian distribution and assess whether age affected the distribution. The study further aimed to assess the effect of gender on termination positions.

Methods

A total of 520 MRI spine studies of children aged between 1 month and 19 years old were collected from two pediatric tertiary referral centres in the UK and Italy. Studies with pathological findings were excluded, and normal scans were found using keyword search algorithms on a database of radiologists’ reports. The reported scans were individually assessed and reviewed by two experienced neuroradiologists. The termination points of the conus medullaris and thecal sac were determined for each study. Local IRB approvals were sought.

Results

The results showcased a Gaussian distribution in both conus medullaris (r=0.8997) and thecal sac termination levels (r=0.9639). No statistically significant results were noted with increasing age for the termination positions of the conus medullaris or thecal sac (p = 0.154, 0.063). No statistical significance was observed with gender variation with either anatomical landmark. A weak positive correlation was observed between the termination levels of the conus medullaris and the thecal sac (r=0.2567)

Conclusion

Termination levels across all pediatric age range followed a Gaussian distribution. Knowledge of normal termination levels has relevant clinical implications, including the assessment of patients with suspected spinal dysraphism.
[18F]FET-PET in children and adolescents with central nervous system tumors: does it support difficult clinical decision-making?
Authors: Kertels Olivia , Krauß Jürgen , Monoranu Camelia Maria , Samnick Samuel , Dierks Alexander , Kircher Malte , Mihovilovic Milena I. , Pham Mirko , Buck Andreas K. , Eyrich Matthias , Schlegel Paul-Gerhardt , Frühwald Michael C. , Bison Brigitte , Lapa Constantin
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Positron emission tomography (PET) with O-(2-[18F]fluoroethyl)-L-tyrosine ([18F]FET) is a well-established tool for non-invasive assessment of adult central nervous system (CNS) tumors. However, data on its diagnostic utility and impact on clinical management in children and adolescents are limited.

Methods

Twenty-one children and young adults (13 males; mean age, 8.6 ± 5.2 years; range, 1–19 at initial diagnosis) with either newly diagnosed (n = 5) or pretreated (n = 16) CNS tumors were retrospectively analyzed. All patients had previously undergone neuro-oncological work-up including cranial magnetic resonance imaging. In all cases, [18F]FET-PET was indicated in a multidisciplinary team conference. The impact of PET imaging on clinical decision-making was assessed. Histopathology (n = 12) and/or clinical and imaging follow-up (n = 9) served as the standard of reference.

Results

The addition of [18F]FET-PET to the available information had an impact on further patient management in 14 out of 21 subjects, with avoidance of invasive surgery or biopsy in four patients, biopsy guidance in four patients, change of further treatment in another five patients, and confirmation of diagnosis in one patient.

Conclusion

[18F]FET-PET may provide important additional information for treatment guidance in pediatric and adolescent patients with CNS tumors.
Human γδ T cells induce CD8+ T cell antitumor responses via antigen-presenting effect through HSP90-MyD88-mediated activation of JNK
Authors: Wang Shengdong , Li Hengyuan , Chen Tao , Zhou Hao , Zhang Wenkan , Lin Nong , Yu Xiaohua , Lou Yu , Li Binghao , Yinwang Eloy , Wang Zenan , Wang Keyi , Xue Yucheng , Qu Hao , Lin Peng , Sun Hangxiang , Teng Wangsiyuan , Mou Haochen , Chai Xupeng , Cai Zhijian , Ye Zhaoming
Published: January 2023

Human Vγ9Vδ2 T cells have attracted considerable attention as novel alternative antigen-presenting cells (APCs) with the potential to replace dendritic cells in antitumor immunotherapy owing to their high proliferative capacity and low cost. However, the utility of γδ T cells as APCs to induce CD8+ T cell-mediated antitumor immune response, as well as the mechanism by which they perform APC functions, remains unexplored. In this study, we found that activated Vγ9Vδ2 T cells were capable of inducing robust CD8+ T cell responses in osteosarcoma cells. Activated γδ T cells also effectively suppressed osteosarcoma growth by priming CD8+ T cells in xenograft animal models. Mechanistically, we further revealed that activated γδ T cells exhibited increased HSP90 production, which fed back to upregulate MyD88, followed by JNK activation and a subsequent improvement in CCL5 secretion, leading to enhanced CD8+ T cell cross-priming. Thus, our study suggests that Vγ9Vδ2 T cells represent a promising alternative APC for the development of γδ T cell-based tumor immunotherapy.
Association of Preoperative Neutrophil‐to‐Lymphocyte Ratio with Postoperative Acute Kidney Injury and Mortality Following Major Noncardiac Surgeries
Authors: Wang Jie , Bi Yaodan , Ma Jun , He Yijun , Liu Bin
Published: January 2023

Background

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a major complication that occurs following an operation. Therefore, there is an increasing need to discover new predictors of AKI. We hypothesized that the preoperative neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) was associated with postoperative AKI and in‐hospital mortality following noncardiac surgery.

Methods

This is a retrospective observational study of patients who underwent noncardiac surgery at Sichuan University West China Hospital from 2018 to 2020. Multivariable logistic regression was performed as the major analytic method. In addition, sensitivity and subgroup analyses were performed to validate the results.

Results

A total of 44,065 patients were included in this study. The prevalence of postoperative AKI was 5.62%, and the in‐hospital mortality was 1.58%. Multivariable analysis demonstrated that NLR ≥ 5 was independently associated with the development of postoperative AKI (OR 1.42, 1.24–1.73; P < 0.001) and in‐hospital mortality (OR 2.03, 1.63–2.52; P < 0.001). Similar results were achieved when propensity‐score matching was performed for patients with NLR ≥ 5 and < 5 on the baseline. In stratified analysis, the associations remained persistent in most subgroups. For the sensitivity analysis, we took NLR as a continuous variable and demonstrated the potential linear relationship between NLR and postoperative AKI and mortality.

Conclusions

Our results indicated that preoperative NLR is associated with the prevalence of postoperative AKI and in‐hospital mortality that occur after major noncardiac surgery. These findings suggest that NLR has the potential to be a significant correlation biomarker associated with perioperative risk assessment of patients undergoing noncardiac surgeries.
As simple as possible but not simpler?: the case of irrigation modeling at catchment scale in southwestern France
Authors: Soutif-Bellenger Myriam , Thirel Guillaume , Therond Olivier , Villerd Jean
Published: January 2023

The estimation of irrigation water requirements (IWR) amount and timing is crucial for designing water management strategies at the regional scale. Irrigation requirements can be estimated with different types of models: very complex and detailed crop models, agent-based models, or simplified modeling approaches. Because simplified approaches are often preferred, in this study, we evaluate the consequences of using simplified approaches for IWR assessment at a catchment scale and the consequences of various modeling choices, providing information on the uncertainties. To this end, different simple modeling approaches based on the CropWat model are compared with an agent-based approach (MAELIA), which serves as a benchmark. To assess simulations in detail, partial variance is calculated for several indicators characterizing daily simulated irrigation. Our sensitivity analysis, applied over a sub-catchment of the Aveyron River (southwestern France), shows a high variability in simulations produced by CropWat between the modeling assumptions tested, principally explained by the rules for irrigation triggering and the quantification of daily irrigation. The analysis also shows that several simplified approaches are able to reproduce the irrigation simulated by the high-accuracy MAELIA model, but not necessarily corresponding to an optimal irrigation scheme. Hence, this study confirms the possibility of assessing daily irrigation with simplified approaches, but warns about high modeling uncertainties, reflecting uncertainty in effective irrigation practices. This uncertainty can be taken into account by water managers and modelers through the combination of a set of irrigation models.
Wound drainage measurements: a narrative review
Authors: Shih Terri , Park Sarah , Thorlacius Linnea R. , Daveluy Steven , Garg Amit , Goegji Susanne D. , Kirby Joslyn S. , McGrath Barry M. , Riis Peter T. , Villumsen Bente , Zalik Kari , Jemec Gregor B. E. , Hsiao Jennifer L.
Published: January 2023

Drainage from chronic wounds can significantly negatively impact a patient’s quality of life. Change in severity of wound drainage is an important measure of treatment efficacy for wounds. This study reviews existing tools used to assess wound drainage. Qualitative drainage tools are overall less burdensome, and however, differences in user interpretation may reduce inter-rater reliability. Quantitative drainage tools enable more reliable comparisons of drainage severity and treatment response between patients but sometimes require equipment to administer, increasing responder burden. Gaps in the current wound drainage measurement landscape are highlighted. Many of the existing scales have not been validated in robust studies. There is also a lack of validated global drainage measurement tools for patients with chronic inflammatory skin disorders with drainage, such as hidradenitis suppurativa or pyoderma gangrenosum. Development of a succinct drainage measurement tool for inflammatory skin diseases where drainage is a prominent symptom will improve monitoring of meaningful treatment response.
DBS in tremor with dystonia: VIM, GPi or both? A review of the literature and considerations from a single-center experience
Authors: Paoli Davide , Mills Russell , Brechany Una , Pavese Nicola , Nicholson Claire
Published: January 2023

Background

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is an established treatment for dystonia and tremor. However, there is no consensus about the best surgical targeting strategy in patients with concomitant tremor and dystonia. Both the thalamic ventral intermediate nucleus (VIM) and the globus pallidus pars interna (GPi) have been proposed as targets. Few cases using them together in a double-target approach have also been reported.

Methods

We reviewed the literature on this topic, summarizing results of different target choices. Additionally, we retrospectively report a case series of nine patients with sporadic dystonia and severe tremor treated with a double-target strategy at our center. Outcome measures were the Burke-Fahn-Marsden Dystonia Rating Scale (BFM) and Eq-5d scale.

Results

In published studies of patients with dystonia and tremor, VIM-DBS is highly effective on tremor but raise some concerns about dystonia’s control, while GPi-DBS is more effective on dystonia but does not always relieve tremor. GPi + VIM-DBS shows good efficacy but is rarely reported and reserved for selected patients. In our patients, the double-target strategy obtained a significant and durable improvement in tremor, dystonia, and quality of life. Additionally, compared with a cohort of patients with tremor treated with VIM-DBS only, significantly lower frequency and intensity of VIM stimulation were required to control tremor.

Conclusion

Our findings and published evidence seem to support the double-targeting approach as a safe and effective option in selected patients with tremor-dominant dystonia. This strategy appears to provide a more extensive control of either dystonia or tremor and may have a potential for limiting stimulation-related side effects.
Comitant strabismus etiology: extraocular muscle integrity and central nervous system involvement—a narrative review
Authors: Sunyer-Grau Bernat , Quevedo Lluïsa , Rodríguez-Vallejo Manuel , Argilés Marc
Published: January 2023

Strabismus is not a condition in itself but the consequence of an underlying problem. Eye misalignment can be caused by disease, injury, and/or abnormalities in any of the structures and processes involved in visual perception and oculomotor control, from the extraocular muscles and their innervations to the oculomotor and visual processing areas in the brain. A small percentage of all strabismus cases are the consequence of well-described genetic syndromes, acquired insult, or disease affecting the extraocular muscles (EOMs) or their innervations. We will refer to them as strabismus of peripheral origin since their etiology lies in the peripheral nervous system. However, in most strabismus cases, that is comitant, non-restrictive, non-paralytic strabismus, the EOMs and their innervations function properly. These cases are not related to specific syndromes and their precise causes remain poorly understood. They are generally believed to be caused by deficits in the central neural pathways involved in visual perception and oculomotor control. Therefore, we will refer to them as central strabismus. The goal of this narrative review is to discuss the possible causes behind this particular type of eye misalignment and to raise awareness among eyecare professionals about the important role the central nervous system plays in strabismus etiology, and the subsequent implications regarding its treatment. A non-systematic search was conducted using PubMed, Medline, Cochrane, and Google Scholar databases with the keywords “origins,” “causes,” and “etiology” combined with “strabismus.” A snowball approach was also used to find relevant references. In the following article, we will first describe EOM integrity in central strabismus; next, we will address numerous reasons that support the idea of central nervous system (CNS) involvement in the origin of the deviation, followed by listing several possible central causes of the ocular misalignment. Finally, we will discuss the implications CNS etiology has on strabismus treatment.
Influence of cholestasis on portal vein embolization-induced hypertrophy of the future liver remnant
Authors: Chang Xinwei , Korenblik Remon , Olij Bram , Knapen Robrecht R. M. M. , van der Leij Christiaan , Heise Daniel , den Dulk Marcel , Neumann Ulf P. , Schaap Frank G. , van Dam Ronald M. , Olde Damink Steven W. M.
Published: January 2023

Purpose

In the pre-clinical setting, hepatocellular bile salt accumulation impairs liver regeneration following partial hepatectomy. Here, we study the impact of cholestasis on portal vein embolization (PVE)-induced hypertrophy of the future liver remnant (FLR).

Methods

Patients were enrolled with perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (pCCA) or colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) undergoing PVE before a (extended) right hemihepatectomy. Volume of segments II/III was considered FLR and assessed on pre-embolization and post-embolization CT scans. The degree of hypertrophy (DH, percentual increase) and kinetic growth rate (KGR, percentage/week) were used to assess PVE-induced hypertrophy.

Results

A total of 50 patients (31 CRLM, 19 pCCA) were included. After PVE, the DH and KGR were similar in patients with CRLM and pCCA (5.2 [3.3–6.9] versus 5.7 [3.2–7.4] %, respectively, p = 0.960 for DH; 1.4 [0.9–2.5] versus 1.9 [1.0–2.4] %/week, respectively, p = 0.742 for KGR). Moreover, pCCA patients with or without hyperbilirubinemia had comparable DH (5.6 [3.0–7.5] versus 5.7 [2.4–7.0] %, respectively, p = 0.806) and KGR (1.7 [1.0–2.4] versus 1.9 [0.8–2.4] %/week, respectively, p = 1.000). For patients with pCCA, unilateral drainage in FLR induced a higher DH than bilateral drainage (6.7 [4.9–7.9] versus 2.7 [1.5–4.2] %, p = 0.012). C-reactive protein before PVE was negatively correlated with DH (ρ = − 0.539, p = 0.038) and KGR (ρ = − 0.532, p = 0.041) in patients with pCCA.

Conclusions

There was no influence of cholestasis on FLR hypertrophy in patients undergoing PVE. Bilateral drainage and inflammation appeared to be negatively associated with FLR hypertrophy. Further prospective studies with larger and more homogenous patient cohorts are desirable.
Learning motor actions via imagery—perceptual or motor learning?
Authors: Frank Cornelia , Kraeutner Sarah N. , Rieger Martina , Boe Shaun G.
Published: January 2023

It is well accepted that repeatedly imagining oneself acting without any overt behavior can lead to learning. The prominent theory accounting for why imagery practice is effective, motor simulation theory, posits that imagined action and overt action are functionally equivalent, the exception being activation of the end effector. If, as motor simulation theory states, one can compile the goal, plan, motor program and outcome of an action during imagined action similar to overt action, then learning of novel skills via imagery should proceed in a manner equivalent to that of overt action. While the evidence on motor simulation theory is both plentiful and diverse, it does not explicitly account for differences in neural and behavioural findings between imagined and overt action. In this position paper, we briefly review theoretical accounts to date and present a perceptual–cognitive theory that accounts for often observed outcomes of imagery practice. We suggest that learning by way of imagery reflects perceptual-cognitive scaffolding, and that this ‘perceptual’ learning transfers into ‘motor’ learning (or not) depending on various factors. Based on this theory, we characterize consistently reported learning effects that occur with imagery practice, against the background of well-known physical practice effects and show that perceptual-cognitive scaffolding is well-suited to explain what is being learnt during imagery practice.
Prognostic value of baseline and early response FDG-PET/CT in patients with refractory and relapsed aggressive B-cell lymphoma undergoing CAR-T cell therapy
Authors: Georgi Thomas Walter , Kurch Lars , Franke Georg-Nikolaus , Jentzsch Madlen , Schwind Sebastian , Perez-Fernandez Carmen , Petermann Naima , Merz Maximilian , Metzeler Klaus , Borte Gudrun , Hoffmann Sandra , Herling Marco , Denecke Timm , Kluge Regine , Sabri Osama , Platzbecker Uwe , Vučinić Vladan
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells are a viable treatment option for patients with relapsed or refractory (r/r) aggressive B-cell lymphomas. The prognosis of patients who relapse after CAR-T cell treatment is dismal and factors predicting outcomes need to be identified. Our aim was to assess the value of FDG-PET/CT in terms of predicting patient outcomes.

Methods

Twenty-two patients with r/r B-cell lymphoma who received CAR-T cell treatment with tisagenlecleucel (n = 17) or axicabtagene ciloleucel (n = 5) underwent quantitative FDG-PET/CT before (PET-0) and 1 month after infusion of CAR-T cells (PET-1). PET-1 was classified as complete metabolic response (CMR, Deauville score 1–3) or non-CMR (Deauville score 4–5).

Results

At the time of PET-1, 12/22 (55%) patients showed CMR, ten (45%) patients non-CMR. 7/12 (58%) CMR patients relapsed after a median of 223 days, three of them (25%) died. 9/10 (90%) non-CMR patients developed relapse or progressive disease after a median of 91 days, eight of them (80%) died. CMR patients demonstrated a significantly lower median total metabolic tumor volume (TMTV) in PET-0 (1 ml) than non-CMR patients (225 ml).

Conclusion

Our results confirm the prognostic value of PET-1. 42% of all CMR patients are still in remission 1 year after CAR T-cell treatment. 90% of the non-CMR patients relapsed, indicating the need for early intervention. Higher TMTV before CAR-T cell infusion was associated with lower chances of CMR.
Urban tree composition is associated with breeding success of a passerine bird, but effects vary within and between years
Authors: Jensen Johan Kjellberg , Ekroos Johan , Watson Hannah , Salmón Pablo , Olsson Peter , Isaksson Caroline
Published: January 2023

Birds breeding in urban environments have lower reproductive output compared to rural conspecifics, most likely because of food limitation. However, which characteristics of urban environments may cause this deficiency is not clear. Here, we investigated how tree composition within urban territories of passerine birds is associated with breeding probability and reproductive success. We used 7 years of data of breeding occupancy for blue and great tits (Cyanistes caeruleus; Parus major) and several reproductive traits for great tits, from 400 urban nest boxes located in 5 parks within the city of Malmö, Sweden. We found that tits, overall, were less likely to breed in territories dominated by either non-native trees or beech trees. Great tit chicks reared in territories dominated by non-native trees weighed significantly less, compared to territories with fewer non-native trees. An earlier onset of breeding correlated with increased chick weight in great tits. Increasing number of common oak trees (Quercus robur) was associated with delayed onset of breeding in great tits. Notably, as offspring survival probability generally increased by breeding earlier, in particular in oak-dominated territories, our results suggest that delayed onset of breeding induced by oak trees may be maladaptive and indicate a mismatch to this food source. Our results demonstrate that tree composition may have important consequences on breeding success of urban birds, but some of these effects are not consistent between years, highlighting the need to account for temporal effects to understand determinants of breeding success and inform optimal management in urban green spaces.
Computing Dense and Sparse Subgraphs of Weakly Closed Graphs
Authors: Koana Tomohiro , Komusiewicz Christian , Sommer Frank
Published: January 2023

A graph G is weakly $$\gamma $$
γ
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(
G
)

of a graph, recently introduced by Fox et al. (SIAM J Comput 49(2):448–464, 2020), is the smallest number such that G is weakly $$\gamma $$
γ
-closed. This graph parameter is never larger than the degeneracy (plus one) and can be significantly smaller. Extending the work of Fox et al. (2020) on clique enumeration, we show that several problems related to finding dense subgraphs, such as the enumeration of bicliques and s-plexes, are fixed-parameter tractable with respect to $$\gamma (G)$$

γ
(
G
)

. Moreover, we show that the problem of determining whether a weakly $$\gamma $$
γ
-closed graph G has a subgraph on at least k vertices that belongs to a graph class $$\mathcal {G}$$
G
which is closed under taking subgraphs admits a kernel with at most $$\gamma k^2$$

γ

k
2

vertices. Finally, we provide fixed-parameter algorithms for Independent Dominating Set and Dominating Clique when parameterized by $$\gamma +k$$

γ
+
k

where k is the solution size. Furthermore, we show that Independent Dominating Set does not admit a polynomial kernel for constant $$\gamma $$
γ
under standard assumptions.
Sexual quality of life following a cancer diagnosis: a qualitative study
Authors: Haber Lauren , Allen Andrew , Rune Karina T.
Published: January 2023

Sexual quality of life (SQoL) challenges are prevalent and persistent for people with a cancer diagnosis. Using a qualitative design, this study investigated the impact of a cancer diagnosis on SQoL in participants (N = 18) with a current or past cancer diagnosis of various sites and severity. Thematic analysis identified three themes: gender attachment, vulnerability, and growth vs. fixed mindset. The theme of gender attachment related to the impact of understanding SQoL based on heteronormative definitions of masculinity and femininity. The second theme of vulnerability suggested that pre-existing relational or personal challenges can amplify the impact of a cancer diagnosis on SQoL. The third theme of growth vs. fixed mindset explored how cognitive flexibility and optimism can support SQoL, while a rigid and pessimistic mindset can exacerbate SQoL challenges. The findings of this study build on the traditional medical understanding of SQoL and can inform SQoL support in cancer care settings.
Anastomosis within and between networks of Rhizophagus irregularis is differentially influenced by fungicides
Authors: Rodriguez-Morelos Victor Hugo , Calonne-Salmon Maryline , Declerck Stéphane
Published: January 2023

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi play key roles in soil fertility of agroecosystems. They develop dense extraradical mycelial (ERM) networks via mechanisms such as hyphal anastomosis. These connections between hyphae can be affected by agricultural practices such as the use of fungicides, but how these compounds affect anastomosis formation within and more importantly between networks of the same AM fungal strain remains poorly unexplored. Here, the impact of azoxystrobin, pencycuron, flutolanil, and fenpropimorph at 0.02 and 2 mg L−1 were tested in vitro on the anastomosis formation within and between networks of Rhizophagus irregularis MUCL 41833. Azoxystrobin and fenpropimorph had a particularly detrimental impact, at the highest concentration (2 mg L−1), on the number of anastomoses within and between networks, and for fenpropimorph in particular at both concentrations (0.02 and 2 mg L−1) on the number of anastomoses per length of hyphae. Curiously fenpropimorph at 0.02 mg L−1 significantly stimulated spore production, while with azoxystrobin, the reverse was observed at 2 mg L−1. The two other fungicides, pencycuron and flutolanil, had no detrimental effects on spore production or anastomosis formation within and between networks. These results suggest that fungicides with different modes of action and concentrations differentially affect anastomosis possibly by altering the hyphal tips of AM fungi and may thus affect the capacity of AM fungi to develop large hyphal networks exploring and exploiting the soil at the service of plants.
From digital divide to digital capital: the role of education and digital skills in social media participation
Authors: Lybeck Robin , Koiranen Ilkka , Koivula Aki
Published: January 2023

Social media platforms have become significant media for participating in society. This, and society’s digitalization overall, has resulted in concerns regarding access and inclusion. By combining theories of social media participation and digital inequality, we explore issues regarding the prerequisites of participating through social media platforms, focusing especially on education. Through an analysis of data from a representative survey study in Finland (N = 3724), we illuminate the ambiguity of the perceived obstacles to both digital skills and political participation. We further build on the concept of digital capital to show the significant mediating effect of digital skills on education and participation. By utilizing the ISS (Internet Skills Scale), we break down digital skills into operational, information navigation, social, creative and mobile skills, and show how the operational skills have most significant mediator between education and political participation in social media. In studying digital inequality, we claim that the concept of digital capital is a valuable tool to illuminate the mechanisms for overcoming digital divides through the transaction of other forms of capital into digital capital, and digital capital to other forms of capital, in this case political capital.
Disparities in COVID-19 related health literacy, knowledge, and the assessment of the measures taken in Germany: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Schmidt Lisa , Götz Nina-Alexandra , Hannemann Niels , Babitsch Birgit
Published: January 2023

Aim

Health literacy is necessary to access, understand, assess, and apply information on COVID-19. Studies have shown that health literacy is unequally distributed across social groups. This study aimed to analyze the differences in COVID-19-related health literacy (hereinafter referred to as “COV-19-HL”), knowledge about COVID-19, and the assessment of the measures taken regarding the sociodemographic characteristics as well as the influence of COV-19-HL on knowledge and assessments.

Subject and methods

The study used the data obtained from the cross-sectional online survey “Digital divide in relation to health literacy during the COVID-19 pandemic.” The data covers 1570 participants aged ≥18 years in Germany between April 29, 2020 and May 8, 2020. To analyze the differences by way of sociodemographic variables, t-tests and analyses of variance were carried out. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to determine the effect of COV-19-HL on knowledge and the assessment of measures.

Results

The overall COV-19-HL was high with an average value of 37.4 (with 50 representing the highest COV-19-HL). COV-19-HL and knowledge about COVID-19 were slightly lower in men, migrants, people with low subjective social status, and with low education. Government requirements and recommendations were rated as more effective by women, older people, and individuals with a chronic illness. The chance of better knowledge about COVID-19 and rating measures as effective increased with higher COV-19-HL.

Conclusion

The findings of this study show that COV-19-HL and knowledge about the virus are unequally distributed in Germany. Health communication should strengthen pandemic-related health literacy that is tailored to specific target groups.
Enhanced Drug Delivery for Cardiac Microvascular Obstruction with an Occlusion-Infusion-Catheter
Authors: Rösch Yannick , Eggenberger David , Kuster Yves , Widmer Lino , Frey Sabrina , Schwartz Rob , Nef Cornelia , Ulmer Jens , Obrist Dominik
Published: January 2023

Microvascular Obstruction (MVO) is a common consequence of acute myocardial infarction. MVO is underdiagnosed and treatment is often nonspecific and ineffective. A multi-scale in-vitro benchtop model was established to investigate drug perfusion in MVO affected microcirculation. The central element of the benchtop model was a fluidic microchip containing channels with diameters between $$555$$

555

and 50 μm representing $$2\%$$

2
%

of the microvascular tree fed by the left anterior descending artery (LAD). The outlets of the chip could be closed to mimic MVO. Two methods for intracoronary infusion of pharmacologic agents (simulated by dye) to regions with MVO were investigated using an occlusion-infusion catheter. The first case was a simple, bolus-like infusion into the LAD, whereas the second case consisted of infusion with concomitant proximal occlusion of the LAD phantom with a balloon. Results show that local dye concentration maxima in the chip with MVO were 2.2–3.2 times higher for the case with proximal balloon occlusion than for the conventional infusion method. The cumulated dose could be raised by a factor 4.6–5.2. These results suggest that drug infusion by catheter is more effective if the blood supply to the treated vascular bed is temporarily blocked by a balloon catheter.
Optimizing Uptake of Long-Acting Injectable Pre-exposure Prophylaxis for HIV Prevention for Men Who Have Sex with Men
Authors: Dean Lorraine T. , Predmore Zachary , Skinner Alexandra , Napoleon Siena , Chan Philip A. , Raifman Julia
Published: January 2023

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a highly effective HIV prevention tool. Long-acting injectable PrEP (LAI-PrEP) offers another opportunity to reduce HIV. However, how at-risk individuals will consider LAI-PrEP over other modes of administration is unclear. We conducted a discrete choice experiment on preferences for PrEP among a sample of N = 688 gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM). We analyzed preferences for mode of administration, side-effects, monetary cost, and time cost using a conditional logit model and predicted preference for PrEP options. LAI-PrEP was preferred, despite mode of administration being the least important PrEP attribute. Side-effects were the most important attribute influencing preferences for PrEP (44% of decision); costs were second-most-important (35% of decision). PrEP with no side-effects was the most important preference, followed by monthly out-of-pocket costs of $0. Practitioners and policymakers looking to increase PrEP uptake should keep costs low, communicate clearly about PrEP side-effects, and allow the use of patient-preferred modes of PrEP administration, including LAI-PrEP.
Carotid wall echogenicity at baseline associates with accelerated vascular aging in a middle-aged population
Authors: Nyman Emma , Liv Per , Wester Per , Näslund Ulf , Grönlund Christer
Published: January 2023

Ultrasonic echolucent carotid intima-media (IM) complex and accelerated progression of carotid intima mediathickness (cIMT) have both separately been shown to predict future cardiovascular events. The aim of this studywas to evaluate if the echogenicity of the IM-complex is associated with the 3-year progression of cIMT. B-modeultrasound images captured at baseline and 3-year follow-up in the ‘Visualization of asymptomatic atherosclerotic disease for optimum cardiovascular prevention’ (VIPVIZA) trial were included (n: 3154). The bilateral mean cIMT and IM-echogenicity by greyscale median (GSM) were measured in the common carotid artery. Associations between IM-GSM at baseline and the 3-year cIMT progression were investigated using linear regression models for the whole population and stratified by sex, age and VIPVIZA study group (intervention versus control). In addition, adjusted analyses for confounding factors were performed. Unadjusted analysis showed that decreased IM-GSM at baseline was associated with increased progression of cIMT (p < 0.001). Stratified by age, the association was significant among 40 (p < 0.001) and 60 years old (p < 0.001). The association was statistically significant in both sexes and on comparison of VIPVIZA study subgroups. Adjustments for confounding factors did not alter the estimated relationship between IM-GSM and cIMT progression. Echolucent carotid intima media at baseline associates with increased 3-year cIMT progression among an asymptomatic, middle-aged population. Echogenicity of the intima media may identify individuals at risk for accelerated vascular aging.