bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A review of current knowledge on reproductive and larval processes of deep-sea corals
Authors: Waller Rhian G. , Goode Savannah , Tracey Di , Johnstone Julia , Mercier Annie
Published: April 2023

The presence of corals living in deep waters around the globe has been documented in various publications since the late 1800s, when the first research vessels set sail on multi-year voyages. Ecological research on these species, however, only truly began some 100 years later. We now know that many species of deep-sea coral provide ecosystem services by creating complex habitat for thousands of associated species, and thus are major contributors to global marine biodiversity. Among the many vital ecological processes, reproduction provides a fundamental link between individuals and populations of these sessile organisms that enables the maintenance of current populations and provides means for expansion to new areas. While research on reproduction of deep-sea corals has increased in pace over the last 20 years, the field is still vastly understudied, with less than 4% of all known species having any aspect of reproduction reported. This knowledge gap is significant, because information on reproduction is critical to our understanding of species-specific capacity to recover from disturbances (e.g., fishing impacts, ocean warming, and seafloor mining). It is important, therefore, to examine the current state of knowledge regarding deep-sea coral reproduction to identify recent advances and potential research priorities, which was the aim of the present study. Specifically, this review synthesizes the research carried out to date on reproduction in deep-living species of corals in the orders Alcyonacea, Scleractinia, Antipatharia, Pennatulacea (class Anthozoa), and family Stylasteridae (class Hydrozoa).
Muscle atrophy in diabetic patients with Charcot foot: a case-control study
Authors: Berli Martin C. , Azaiez Nicolas , Götschi Tobias , Pfirrmann Christian W. A. , Uçkay Ilker , Sutter Reto , Waibel Felix W.A. , Rosskopf Andrea B.
Published: April 2023

Purpose

To evaluate the distribution and severity of muscle atrophy in diabetic patients with active Charcot foot (CF) compared to diabetic patients without CF. Furthermore, to correlate the muscle atrophy with severity of CF disease.

Material/methods

In this retrospective study, MR images of 35 diabetic patients (21 male, median:62.1 years ± 9.9SD) with active CF were compared with an age- and gender-matched control group of diabetic patients without CF. Two readers evaluated fatty muscle infiltration (Goutallier-classification) in the mid- and hindfoot. Furthermore, muscle trophic (cross-sectional muscle area (CSA)), intramuscular edema (none/mild versus moderate/severe), and the severity of CF disease (Balgrist Score) were assessed.

Results

Interreader correlation for fatty infiltration was substantial to almost perfect (kappa-values:0.73–1.0). Frequency of fatty muscle infiltration was high in both groups (CF:97.1–100%; control:77.1–91.4%), but severe infiltration was significantly more frequent in CF patients (p-values: < 0.001–0.043). Muscle edema was also frequently seen in both groups, but significantly more often in the CF group (p-values: < 0.001–0.003). CSAs of hindfoot muscles were significantly smaller in the CF group. For the flexor digitorum brevis muscle, a cutoff value of 139 mm2 (sensitivity:62.9%; specificity:82.9%) in the hindfoot was found to differentiate between CF disease and the control group. No correlation was seen between fatty muscle infiltration and the Balgrist Score.

Conclusion

Muscle atrophy and muscle edema are significantly more severe in diabetic patients with CF disease. Muscle atrophy does not correlate with the severity of active CF disease. A CSA < 139 mm2 of the flexor digitorum brevis muscle in the hindfoot may indicate CF disease.
Environmental Investigation and Surveillance for Legionella in Aotearoa New Zealand, 2000–2020
Authors: Graham Frances F. , Harte David J. G. , Baker Michael G.
Published: April 2023

The reported rate of legionellosis is increasing in Aotearoa New Zealand (NZ) with most cases community-acquired, sporadic (non-outbreak) and without an identifiable source. This analysis used two datasets to describe the environmental sources that contribute to Legionella in NZ, based on linkages with outbreaks and sporadic clinical cases, and analysis of environmental testing data. These findings highlight the need for enhanced environmental investigation of clinical cases and outbreaks. There is also a need for systematic surveillance testing of high-risk source environments to support more rigorous controls to prevent legionellosis.
Diagnostic value of DECT-based colored collagen maps for the assessment of cruciate ligaments in patients with acute trauma
Authors: Gruenewald Leon D. , Koch Vitali , Martin Simon S. , Yel Ibrahim , Mahmoudi Scherwin , Bernatz Simon , Eichler Katrin , Alizadeh Leona S. , D’Angelo Tommaso , Mazziotti Silvio , Singer Hendrik , Heck Vincent , Vogl Thomas J. , Booz Christian
Published: April 2023

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of third-generation dual-source dual-energy CT (DECT) color-coded collagen reconstructions for the assessment of the cruciate ligaments compared to standard grayscale image reconstruction.

Methods

Patients who underwent third-generation dual-source DECT followed by either 3-T MRI or arthroscopy of the knee joint within 14 days between January 2016 and December 2021 were included in this retrospective study. Five radiologists independently evaluated conventional grayscale DECT for the presence of injury to the cruciate ligaments; after 4 weeks, readers re-evaluated the examinations using grayscale images and color-coded collagen reconstructions. A reference standard for MRI was provided by a consensus reading of two experienced readers and arthroscopy. Sensitivity and specificity were the primary metrics of diagnostic performance.

Results

Eighty-five patients (mean age, 44 years ± 16; 50 male) with injury to the ACL or PCL (n = 31) were ultimately included. Color-coded collagen reconstructions significantly increased overall sensitivity (94/105 [90%] vs. 67/105 [64%]), specificity (248/320 [78%] vs. 215/320 [67%]), PPV (94/166 [57%] vs. 67/162 [39%]), NPV (248/259 [96%] vs. 215/253 [85%]), and accuracy (342/425 [81%] vs. 282/425 [66%]) for the detection of injury to the anterior cruciate ligament (all parameters, p < .001). For injury to the posterior cruciate ligament, diagnostic accuracy increased for complete tears (p < .001). Color-coded collagen reconstructions achieved superior diagnostic confidence, image quality, and noise scores compared to grayscale CT (all parameters, p < .001) and showed good agreement with MRI examinations.

Conclusions

DECT-derived color-coded collagen reconstructions yield substantially higher diagnostic accuracy and confidence for assessing the integrity of the cruciate ligaments compared to standard grayscale CT in patients with acute trauma.

Key Points

• Color-coded collagen reconstructions derived from dual-energy CT yield substantially higher diagnostic accuracy and confidence for the assessment of the cruciate ligaments compared to standard grayscale CT in patients with acute trauma.

• Color-coded collagen reconstructions demonstrate good agreement with MRI for the assessment cruciate ligament injury.

• Dual-energy CT may serve as a readily available screening approach for patients with acute trauma to the knee when injury to the cruciate ligaments is suspected.
Shadow Ratio of Hypergraphs with Bounded Degree
Authors: Jung Attila
Published: April 2023

We study the size of the shadow of k-uniform hypergraphs with bounded degree. Lower bounds on the ratio of the size of the shadow and the size of the hypergraph are given as a function of the degree bound and k. We show that cliques are extremal for a long range of degree bounds, but not for every bound. We give a general, but not sharp lower bound on the shadow ratio and show, that sometimes we can get extremal hypergraphs by deleting disjoint maximal matchings from a clique .
Parameterization and Explicit Modeling of Cloud Microphysics: Approaches, Challenges, and Future Directions
Authors: Liu Yangang , Yau Man-Kong , Shima Shin-ichiro , Lu Chunsong , Chen Sisi
Published: April 2023

Cloud microphysical processes occur at the smallest end of scales among cloud-related processes and thus must be parameterized not only in large-scale global circulation models (GCMs) but also in various higher-resolution limited-area models such as cloud-resolving models (CRMs) and large-eddy simulation (LES) models. Instead of giving a comprehensive review of existing microphysical parameterizations that have been developed over the years, this study concentrates purposely on several topics that we believe are understudied but hold great potential for further advancing bulk microphysics parameterizations: multi-moment bulk microphysics parameterizations and the role of the spectral shape of hydrometeor size distributions; discrete vs “continuous” representation of hydrometeor types; turbulence-microphysics interactions including turbulent entrainment-mixing processes and stochastic condensation; theoretical foundations for the mathematical expressions used to describe hydrometeor size distributions and hydrometeor morphology; and approaches for developing bulk microphysics parameterizations. Also presented are the spectral bin scheme and particle-based scheme (especially, super-droplet method) for representing explicit microphysics. Their advantages and disadvantages are elucidated for constructing cloud models with detailed microphysics that are essential to developing processes understanding and bulk microphysics parameterizations. Particle-resolved direct numerical simulation (DNS) models are described as an emerging technique to investigate turbulence-microphysics interactions at the most fundamental level by tracking individual particles and resolving the smallest turbulent eddies in turbulent clouds. Outstanding challenges and future research directions are explored as well.
Regenerative medicine: current research and perspective in pediatric surgery
Authors: Deguchi Koichi , Zambaiti Elisa , De Coppi Paolo
Published: April 2023

The field of regenerative medicine, encompassing several disciplines including stem cell biology and tissue engineering, continues to advance with the accumulating research on cell manipulation technologies, gene therapy and new materials. Recent progress in preclinical and clinical studies may transcend the boundaries of regenerative medicine from laboratory research towards clinical reality. However, for the ultimate goal to construct bioengineered transplantable organs, a number of issues still need to be addressed. In particular, engineering of elaborate tissues and organs requires a fine combination of different relevant aspects; not only the repopulation of multiple cell phenotypes in an appropriate distribution but also the adjustment of the host environmental factors such as vascularisation, innervation and immunomodulation. The aim of this review article is to provide an overview of the recent discoveries and development in stem cells and tissue engineering, which are inseparably interconnected. The current status of research on tissue stem cells and bioengineering, and the possibilities for application in specific organs relevant to paediatric surgery have been specifically focused and outlined.
Improving outcomes of AF ablation by integrated personalized lifestyle interventions: rationale and design of the prevention to improve outcomes of PVI (POP) trial
Authors: Vermeer Jasper , Vinck Tineke , de Louw Bianca , Slingerland Stacey , van ’t Veer Marcel , Regis Marta , Jansen Jos-marien , van den Heuvel Edwin , Dekker Lukas
Published: April 2023

Progression of atrial fibrillation (AF) and outcomes of ablation therapy are strongly affected by modifiable risk factors. Although previous studies show beneficial effects of modifying single risk factors, there is lack of evidence from randomized controlled trials on the effects of integrated AF lifestyle programmes. The POP trial is designed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of a dedicated nurse-led AF lifestyle outpatient clinic in patients with symptomatic AF. This study is a prospective, 1:1 randomized, single centre, investigator-initiated clinical trial in 150 patients with paroxysmal or persistent AF referred for a first pulmonary vein isolation (PVI). Prior to the ablation, patients in the intervention group receive a personalized risk factor treatment programme in a specialized, protocolized, nurse-led outpatient clinic. Patient education and durable lifestyle management is promoted with an e-health platform. Patients in the control group receive standard care by cardiologists before ablation. The primary endpoint is the number of hospitalizations for re-ablation and cardioversion, with a follow-up of 12 months after ablation. Secondary endpoints include mortality, number of acute ischemic events, stroke or hospitalizations for heart failure, quality of life, number of ablations cancelled because of symptom reduction, and ablation success rate at 12 months. Determinants of patient and staff experience are explored and a cost-effectiveness analysis is included. The POP trial will help ascertain the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of an integrated technology-supported lifestyle therapy in patients with symptomatic AF. The trial is funded by the Netherlands Organisation for Health Research and Development [10070012010001]. Home sleep apnoea testing devices were provided by Itamar Medical, Ltd.

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT05148338.

Graphical abstract

AF atrial fibrillation, OSA obstructive sleep apnoea, PFA pulsed field ablation, PVI pulmonary vein isolation.
Biomarkers for parkinsonian disorders in CNS-originating EVs: promise and challenges
Authors: Dutta Suman , Hornung Simon , Taha Hash Brown , Bitan Gal
Published: April 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes, microvesicles, and oncosomes, are nano-sized particles enclosed by a lipid bilayer. EVs are released by virtually all eukaryotic cells and have been shown to contribute to intercellular communication by transporting proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. In the context of neurodegenerative diseases, EVs may carry toxic, misfolded forms of amyloidogenic proteins and facilitate their spread to recipient cells in the central nervous system (CNS). CNS-originating EVs can cross the blood–brain barrier into the bloodstream and may be found in other body fluids, including saliva, tears, and urine. EVs originating in the CNS represent an attractive source of biomarkers for neurodegenerative diseases, because they contain cell- and cell state-specific biological materials. In recent years, multiple papers have reported the use of this strategy for identification and quantitation of biomarkers for neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson’s disease and atypical parkinsonian disorders. However, certain technical issues have yet to be standardized, such as the best surface markers for isolation of cell type-specific EVs and validating the cellular origin of the EVs. Here, we review recent research using CNS-originating EVs for biomarker studies, primarily in parkinsonian disorders, highlight technical challenges, and propose strategies for overcoming them.
Corneal confocal microscopy identifies corneal nerve loss and increased Langerhans cells in presymptomatic carriers and patients with hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis
Authors: Thimm Andreas , Carpinteiro Alexander , Oubari Sara , Papathanasiou Maria , Kessler Lukas , Rischpler Christoph , Malik Rayaz Ahmed , Herrmann Ken , Reinhardt Hans Christian , Rassaf Tienush , Kleinschnitz Christoph , Hagenacker Tim , Stettner Mark
Published: April 2023

Background

Hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRv amyloidosis) is a rare, but life-threatening protein misfolding disorder due to TTR gene mutations. Cardiomyopathy (ATTRv-CM) and polyneuropathy (ATTRv-PN) with early small nerve fibre involvement are the most common manifestations. Timely diagnosis and treatment initiation are key to limiting progression of disease. Corneal confocal microscopy (CCM) is a non-invasive method to quantify corneal small nerve fibres and immune cell infiltrates in vivo.

Methods

This cross-sectional study investigated the utility of CCM in 20 patients with ATTRv amyloidosis (ATTRv-CM, n = 6; ATTRv-PN, n = 14) and presymptomatic carriers (n = 5) compared to 20 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Corneal nerve fibre density, corneal nerve fibre length, corneal nerve branch density, and cell infiltrates were assessed.

Results

Corneal nerve fibre density and nerve fibre length were significantly lower in patients with ATTRv amyloidosis compared to healthy controls regardless of the clinical phenotype (ATTRv-CM, ATTRv-PN) and corneal nerve fibre density was significantly lower in presymptomatic carriers. Immune cell infiltrates were only evident in patients with ATTRv amyloidosis, which correlated with reduced corneal nerve fibre density.

Conclusions

CCM identifies small nerve fibre damage in presymptomatic carriers and symptomatic patients with ATTRv amyloidosis and may serve as a predictive surrogate marker to identify individuals at risk of developing symptomatic amyloidosis. Furthermore, increased corneal cell infiltration suggests an immune-mediated mechanism in the pathogenesis of amyloid neuropathy.
Concurrent metaboreflex activation increases chronotropic and ventilatory responses to passive leg movement without sex-related differences
Authors: Laginestra Fabio Giuseppe , Favaretto Thomas , Giuriato Gaia , Martignon Camilla , Barbi Chiara , Pedrinolla Anna , Cavicchia Alessandro , Venturelli Massimo
Published: April 2023

Previous studies in animal models showed that exercise-induced metabolites accumulation may sensitize the mechanoreflex-induced response. The aim of this study was to assess whether the magnitude of the central hemodynamic and ventilatory adjustments evoked by isolated stimulation of the mechanoreceptors in humans are influenced by the prior accumulation of metabolic byproducts in the muscle. 10 males and 10 females performed two exercise bouts consisting of 5-min of intermittent isometric knee-extensions performed 10% above the previously determined critical force. Post-exercise, the subjects recovered for 5 min either with a suprasystolic circulatory occlusion applied to the exercised quadriceps (PECO) or under freely-perfused conditions (CON). Afterwards, 1-min of continuous passive leg movement was performed. Central hemodynamics, pulmonary data, and electromyography from exercising/passively-moved leg were recorded throughout the trial. Root mean square of successive differences (RMSSD, index of vagal tone) was also calculated. Δpeak responses of heart rate (ΔHR) and ventilation ($$\Delta \dot{V}_{{\text{E}}}$$

Δ

V
˙

E

) to passive leg movement were higher in PECO compared to CON (ΔHR: 6 ± 5 vs 2 ± 4 bpm, p = 0.01; 3.9 ± 3.4 vs 1.9 ± 1.7 L min−1, p = 0.02). Δpeak of mean arterial pressure (ΔMAP) was significantly different between conditions (5 ± 3 vs  − 3 ± 3 mmHg, p < 0.01). Changes in RMSSD with passive leg movement were different between PECO and CON (p < 0.01), with a decrease only in the former (39 ± 18 to 32 ± 15 ms, p = 0.04). No difference was found in all the other measured variables between conditions (p > 0.05). These findings suggest that mechanoreflex-mediated increases in HR and $$\dot{V}_{{\text{E}}}$$

V
˙

E

are sensitized by metabolites accumulation. These responses were not influenced by biological sex.
Apomixis: oh, what a tangled web we have!
Authors: Niccolò Terzaroli , Anderson Aaron W. , Emidio Albertini
Published: April 2023

Main conclusion

Apomixis is a complex evolutionary trait with many possible origins. Here we discuss various clues and causes, ultimately proposing a model harmonizing the three working hypotheses on the topic.

Asexual reproduction through seeds, i.e., apomixis, is the holy grail of plant biology. Its implementation in modern breeding could be a game-changer for agriculture. It has the potential to generate clonal crops and maintain valuable complex genotypes and their associated heterotic traits without inbreeding depression. The genetic basis and origins of apomixis are still unclear. There are three central hypothesis for the development of apomixis that could be: i) a deviation from the sexual developmental program caused by an asynchronous development, ii) environmentally triggered through epigenetic regulations (a polyphenism of sex), iii) relying on one or more genes/alleles. Because of the ever-increasing complexity of the topic, the path toward a detailed understanding of the mechanisms underlying apomixis remains unclear. Here, we discuss the most recent advances in the evolution perspective of this multifaceted trait. We incorporated our understanding of the effect of endogenous effectors, such as small RNAs, epigenetic regulation, hormonal pathways, protein turnover, and cell wall modification in response to an upside stress. This can be either endogenous (hybridization or polyploidization) or exogenous environmental stress, mainly due to oxidative stress and the corresponding ROS (Reacting Oxygen Species) effectors. Finally, we graphically represented this tangled web.
Atypical meningiomas with an immunohistochemical profile consistent with hypermetabolic or proliferative molecular groups show high mitotic index, chromosomal instability, and higher recurrence risk
Authors: Barresi Valeria , Ammendola Serena , Simbolo Michele , Pedron Serena , Caffo Maria , Scarpa Aldo
Published: April 2023

The use of adjuvant radiotherapy is controversial for atypical meningiomas undergoing gross total resection. It has recently been proposed that meningiomas may be classified into four molecular groups (MG): immunogenic (MG1), benign NF2-wildtype (MG2), hypermetabolic (MG3), and proliferative (MG4). The two latter have the worst prognosis, and it has been suggested that they can be identified using ACADL and MCM2 immunostainings. We studied 55 primary atypical meningiomas, treated with gross total resection and no adjuvant therapies, to assess whether ACADL and MCM2 immuno-expression may identify patients at higher recurrence risk, thus requiring adjuvant treatments. Twelve cases resulted ACADL-/MCM2-, 9 ACADL + /MCM2-, 17 ACADL + /MCM2 + , and 17 ACADL-/MCM2 + . MCM2 + meningiomas displayed more frequent atypical features (prominent nucleoli, small cells with high nuclear-to-cytoplasmic ratio) and CDKN2A hemizygous deletion (HeDe) (P = 0.011). The immunoexpression of ACADL and/or MCM2 was significantly associated with higher mitotic index, 1p and 18q deletions, increased recurrence rate (P = 0.0006), and shorter recurrence-free survival (RFS) (P = 0.032). At multivariate analysis, carried out including ACADL/MCM2 immuno-expression, mitotic index, and CDKN2A HeDe as covariates, this latter resulted a significant and independent prognosticator of shorter RFS (P = 0.0003).
Development of myelin in fetal and postnatal neocortex of the pig, the European wild boar Sus scrofa
Authors: Sobierajski Eric , Lauer German , Czubay Katrin , Grabietz Hannah , Beemelmans Christa , Beemelmans Christoph , Meyer Gundela , Wahle Petra
Published: April 2023

Myelination of the neocortex of altricial species is mostly a postnatal event, and the appearance of myelin has been associated with the end of the critical period for ocular dominance plasticity in rodent visual cortex. Due to their precocality, ungulates may tell a different story. Here, we analyzed the development of PDGFRα positive oligodendrocyte precursor cells and expression of myelin proteins in the laminar compartments of fetal and postnatal porcine cortex from E45 onwards. Precursor cell density initially increased and then decreased but remained present at P90. MAG and MBP staining were detectable at E70 in subventricular zone and deep white matter, ascending into gyral white matter at E85, and into the gray matter and marginal zone at E100 (birth in pig at E114). Protein blots confirmed the declining expression of PDGFRα from E65 onwards, and the increase of MBP and MAG expression from E80 onwards. Somatosensory input elicited by spontaneous activity is considered important for the formation of the body representation. Indeed, PDGFRα, MBP and MAG expression started earlier in somatosensory than in visual cortex. Taken together, myelination proceeded in white and gray matter and marginal zone of pig cortex before birth with an areal-specific time course, and an almost mature pattern was present at P5 in visual cortex.
Rituximab-associated hypogammaglobulinemia in children with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome: results of an ESPN survey
Authors: Zurowska Aleksandra , Drozynska-Duklas Magdalena , Topaloglu Rezan , Bouts Antonia , Boyer Olivia , Shenoy Mohan , Vivarelli Marina ,   on behalf of ESPN Glomerulonephritis Working Group, Alpay H. , Andersen R. , Ariceta G. , Atmış B. , Bayrakçı U. S. , Esrea B. , Baudouin V. , Bervina N. , Benetti E. , Berard E. , Bjerre A. , Christian M. , Couderc A. , Dehoorne J. , Deschenes G. , Dossier C. , Düşünsel R. , Ekinci Z. , Emma F. , Espinoza L. , Gianviti A. , Herrero Goñi M. , Guido G. , Ghio L. , Groothoff J. , Hacıhamdioğlu D. Ö. , Espino Hernández M. , Jankauskiene A. , Kagan M. , Kemper M. , Kovacevic M. , Kohl S. , Kramar R. T. , López-González M. , Aris A. M. , Maringhini S. , Marlais M. , Melgosa M. , Mitsioni A. , Montini G. , Moczulska A. , Murer L. , Obukhova V. , Oh J. , Ortega P. , Özçakar Z. B. , Ulinski T. , Pasini A. , Papalia T. , Paunova S. , Pena A. , Pecoraro C. , Petrosyan E. , Peruzzi L. , Printza N. , Prikhodina L. , Pietrement C. , Rittig S. , Rodrigo D. , Savenkova N. , Saraga M. , Sever F. L. , Schreuder M. , Szczepanska M. , Tasic V. , Tonshoff B. , Tullus K. , Vara J. , Vande Walle J. , Volokhina E. , Zieg J. , Waters A. , Weber L. T. , Webbe N. , Wasiak M.
Published: April 2023

Background

There is paucity of information on rituximab-associated hypogammaglobulinemia (HGG) and its potential infectious consequences in children treated for idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS).

Methods

A survey was distributed by the European Society Pediatric Nephrology to its members. It addressed the screening and management practices of pediatric nephrology units for recognizing and treating RTX-associated HGG and its morbidity and mortality. Eighty-four centers which had treated an overall 1328 INS children with RTX responded.

Results

The majority of centers administered several courses of RTX and continued concomitant immunosuppressive therapy. Sixty-five percent of centers routinely screened children for HGG prior to RTX infusion, 59% during, and 52% following RTX treatment. Forty-seven percent had observed HGG prior to RTX administration, 61% during and 47% >9 months following treatment in 121, 210, and 128 subjects respectively. Thirty-three severe infections were reported among the cohort of 1328 RTX-treated subjects, of whom 3 children died. HGG had been recognized in 30/33 (80%) of them.

Conclusions

HGG in steroid-dependent/frequently relapsing nephrotic syndrome (SDNS/FRNS) children is probably multifactorial and can be observed prior to RTX administration in children with SDNS/FRNS. Persistent HGG lasting >9 months from RTX infusion is not uncommon and may increase the risk of severe infections in this cohort. We advocate for the obligatory screening for HGG in children with SDNS/FRNS prior to, during, and following RTX treatment. Further research is necessary to identify risk factors for developing both HGG and severe infections before recommendations are made for its optimal management.

Graphical abstract
A reactive path relinking algorithm for solving the bi-objective p-Median and p-Dispersion problem
Authors: Lozano-Osorio I. , Sánchez-Oro J. , López-Sánchez A. D. , Duarte A.
Published: April 2023

This paper deals with an interesting facility location problem known as the bi-objective p-Median and p-Dispersion problem (BpMD problem). The BpMD problem seeks to locate p facilities to service a set of n demand points, and the goal is to minimize the total distance between facilities and demand points and, simultaneously, maximize the minimum distance between all pairs of hosted facilities. The problem is addressed with a novel path relinking approach, called reactive path relinking, which hybridizes two of the most extended path relinking variants: interior path relinking and exterior path relinking. Additionally, the proposal is adapted to a multi-objective perspective for finding a good approximation of the Pareto front. Computational results prove the superiority of the proposed algorithm over the best procedures found in the literature.
Locating the propagation source in complex networks with observers-based similarity measures and direction-induced search
Authors: Yang Fan , Li Chungui , Peng Yong , Liu Jingxian , Yao Yabing , Wen Jiayan , Yang Shuhong
Published: April 2023

Locating the propagation source is one of the most important strategies to control the harmful diffusion process on complex networks. Most existing methods only consider the infection time information of the observers, but the diffusion direction information of the observers is ignored, which is helpful to locate the source. In this paper, we consider both of the diffusion direction information and the infection time information to locate the source. We introduce a relaxed direction-induced search (DIS) to utilize the diffusion direction information of the observers to approximate the actual diffusion tree on a network. Based on the relaxed DIS, we further utilize the infection time information of the observers to define two kinds of observers-based similarity measures, including the Infection Time Similarity and the Infection Time Order Similarity. With the two kinds of similarity measures and the relaxed DIS, a novel source locating method is proposed. We validate the performance of the proposed method on a series of synthetic and real networks. The experimental results show that the proposed method is feasible and effective in accurately locating the propagation source.
Growth pattern of lumbar maturity stage at L1 to L5 during adolescent growth spurt
Authors: Tsutsui Toshiharu , Iizuka Satoshi , Takei Seira , Sakamaki Wataru , Maemichi Toshihiro , Torii Suguru
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to clarify the order of the lumbar maturity stage, each at L1 to L5, and the relationships between age at peak height velocity (APHV) and the lumbar maturity stage.

Methods

A total of 120 male first-grade junior high school soccer players were enrolled and followed for two years, and measurements were performed five times (T1 to T5). The lumbar maturity stage was assessed according to the degree of lesion of the epiphyseal from L1 to L5 using magnetic resonance imaging and classified into three stages: cartilaginous stage, apophyseal stage, and epiphyseal stage. The relationships between T1 and T5 temporal changes and developmental stages divided by 0.5 year increments based on APHV and the lumbar maturity stage at L1 to L5 were examined. For the apophyseal stage, developmental age calculated based on the difference between APHV and chronological age between each lumbar vertebra was compared.

Results

We found that part of the cartilaginous stages decreased as time progressed, while that of the apophyseal and epiphyseal stages increased at L1 to L5 (chi-square test, p < 0.01). L5 matured earlier with the apophyseal stage than L1 to L4 (p < 0.05). The lumbar maturity stage was attained toward L1 from L5, comparing different lumbar levels.

Conclusion

The lumbar maturity stage progresses from L5 toward L1, and the apophyseal and epiphyseal stages would replace the cartilaginous stage at approximately 14 years of age or after APHV.
Use of monofilament sutures and triclosan coating to protect against surgical site infections in spinal surgery: a laboratory-based study
Authors: Fawi H. M. T. , Papastergiou P. , Khan F. , Hart A. , Coleman N. P.
Published: April 2023

Purpose

We investigated bacterial propagation through multifilament, monofilament sutures and whether sutures coated with triclosan would exhibit a different phenomenon.

Methods

One centimetre (cm) wide trenches were cut in the middle of Columbia blood Agar plates. We tested a 6 cm length of two Triclosan-coated (PDS plus®, Vicryl plus®) and two uncoated (PDS ®, Vicryl ®) sutures. Each suture was inoculated with a bacterial suspension containing methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA), Escherichia coli (E. coli), Staphylococcus epidermidis, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) at one end of each suture. The plates were incubated at 36C for 48 h, followed by room temperature for a further 5 days. We established bacterial propagation by observing for any bacterial growth on the Agar on the opposite side of the trench.

Results

Bacterial propagation was observed on the opposite side of the trench with both suture types, monofilament PDS and multifilament Vicryl, when tested with the motile bacterium (E. coli). Propagation was not observed on the other side of the trench with the monofilament PDS suture following incubation with MSSA and S. epidermidis, and in 66% of MRSA. With multifilament suture Vicryl, propagation was observed on the other side of the trench in 90% (MSSA), 80% (S. epidermidis), and 100% (MRSA) of plates tested. No bacterial propagation was observed in any of the triclosan-coated sutures (monofilament or multifilament).

Conclusions

Monofilament sutures are associated in vitro with less bacterial propagation along their course when compared to multifilament sutures. Inhibition in both sutures can be further enhanced with a triclosan coating.
An improved microfluidic device to enhance the enrichment factors in liquid phase microextraction: application to the simultaneous extraction of polar and non-polar acids in biological samples
Authors: Martín Alejandro , Fernández-Torres Rut , Bello-López Miguel Ángel , Ramos-Payán María
Published: April 2023

A new microfluidic device to enhance the enrichment factor in miniaturized systems is proposed. The microfluidic system was design for liquid phase microextractions, and it was applied to the simultaneous extraction of acidic compounds of a wide range of polarity (0.5 < log P < 3). The device operated under stagnant acceptor phase conditions and all the operational parameters involved were optimized. Tributyl phosphate was found to be a new highly efficient supported liquid membrane to simultaneously extract analytes of very different polarities. The optimal donor and acceptor phase were pH 2 and pH 13, respectively. The donor flow rate and the extraction time were investigated simultaneously, offering great versatility with high enrichment factors (EFs). Limits of quantitation were within 0.02 and 0.09 µg mL−1 for all compounds at 10 µL min−1 as donor flow rate and 20-min extractions, offering EFs between 11 and 18 with only 200-µL sample volume consumption. The method was successfully applied to human urine samples, observing recoveries between 47 and 90% for all compounds. This new proposed microfluidic system increases the wide range of applications, especially when the analytes are present in lower concentrations in the sample.

Graphical Abstract
International revenue share fraud prediction on the 5G edge using federated learning
Authors: Ferreira Luís , Silva Leopoldo , Morais Francisco , Martins Carlos Manuel , Pires Pedro Miguel , Rodrigues Helena , Cortez Paulo , Pilastri André
Published: April 2023

Edge computing and multi-access edge computing (MEC) are two recent paradigms of distributed computing that are growing due to the rise of the fifth-generation (5G) of broadband cellular networks. The development of edge computing and MEC architectures involves the hosting of applications close to the end-users, allowing: an improved privacy, given that critical data is not shared with other systems; a reduced communication latency; an improved application speed; and a more efficient energy use. However, many applications are challenged by edge computing and MEC. In the case of machine learning (ML) applications, there can be privacy rules that do not allow data to be shared among distinct edges. Additionally, the devices used to train ML models might present lower computational capabilities than traditional computers. In this work, we present a Federated ML architecture that uses decentralized data and light ML training techniques to fit ML models on the 5G Edge. Our system consists of edge nodes that train models using local data and a centralized node that aggregates the results. As a case study, an international revenue share fraud task is addressed by considering two real-world datasets obtained from a commercial provider of Telecom analytics solutions. We test our architecture using two iterations of a Federated ML method, then compare it with a centralized ML model that is currently adopted by the provider. The results show that the Federated Learning decentralized approach produces an excellent level of class discrimination and that the main models maintain the performance across two rounds of decentralized training and even surpass the existing centralized model. After validating the results with the Telecom provider, we have built a prototype technological architecture that can be deployed in a real-world MEC scenario.
Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion with plate versus posterior screw fixation after traumatic subaxial fractures in octogenarians: complications and outcomes with a 2-year follow-up
Authors: Lenga Pavlina , Gülec Gelo , Kiening Karl , Unterberg Andreas W. , Ishak Basem
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Surgical intervention for management of spinal instability after traumatic subaxial fractures in octogenarians requires a clear consensus on optimal treatments. This study aimed to provide a guide for more efficient management through comparison and assessment of clinical outcomes and complications of anterior cervical discectomy and fusion with plate (pACDF) and posterior decompression fusion (PDF) instrumentation alone in patients aged 80 years.

Methods

A single institution retrospective review of electronic medical records was undertaken between September 2005 and December 2021. Comorbidities were assessed using the age-adjusted Charlson comorbidity index (CCI). Logistic regression was used to identify potential risk factors for ACDF complications.

Results

The rate of comorbidities were similarly high between the pACDF (n=13) and PDF (n=15) groups (pACDF: 8.7 ± 2.4 points vs. 8.5 ± 2.3 points; p=0.555). Patients in the PDF group had significantly longer surgical duration (235 ± 58.4 min vs. 182.5 ± 32.1 min; p<0.001) and significantly higher volumes of intraoperative blood loss (661.5 ± 100.1 mL vs. 487.5 ± 92.1 mL; p<0.001). The in-hospital mortality was 7.7% for the pACDF group and 6.7% for the PDF group. On day 90, the mortality rate increased in both groups from baseline (pACDF: 15.4% vs. PDF: 13.3; p>0.05). Motor scores (MS) improved significantly after surgery in both groups (pACDF: preOP MS: 75.3 ± 11.1 vs. postOP MS: 82.4 ± 10.1; p<0.05; PDF: preOP MS: 80.7 ± 16.7 vs. postOP MS: 89.5 ± 12.1; p<0.05). Statistically significant predictors for postoperative complications included longer operative times (odds ratio 1.2, 95% confidence interval 1.1–2.1; p=0.005) and larger volume of blood loss (odds ratio 1.5, 95% confidence interval 1.2–2.2; p=0.003).

Conclusions

Both pACDF and PDF can be considered safe treatment strategies for octogenarians with a poor baseline profile and subaxial fractures as they lead to patients substantial neurological improvements, and they are accompanied with low morbidity and mortality rates. Operation duration and intraoperative blood loss should be minimized to increase the degree of neurological recovery in octogenarian patients.
Brimonidine eye drops reveal diminished sympathetic pupillary tone in comatose patients with brain injury
Authors: Jakobsen Elisabeth Waldemar , Nersesjan Vardan , Albrechtsen Simon Sander , Othman Marwan H. , Amiri Moshgan , Knudsen Niels Vendelbo , Larson Merlin D. , Hassager Christian , Møller Kirsten , Kjaergaard Jesper , Kondziella Daniel
Published: April 2023

Background

There is an urgent need for easy-to-perform bedside measures to detect residual consciousness in clinically unresponsive patients with acute brain injury. Interestingly, the sympathetic control of pupil size is thought to be lost in states of unconsciousness. We therefore hypothesized that administration of brimonidine (an alpha-2-adrenergic agonist) eye drops into one eye should produce a pharmacologic Horner’s syndrome if the clinically unresponsive patient is conscious, but not if the patient is unconscious. Here, in a first step to explore this hypothesis, we investigated the potential of brimonidine eye drops to distinguish preserved sympathetic pupillary function in awake volunteers from impairment of sympathetic tone in patients in a coma.

Methods

We enrolled comatose patients admitted for acute brain injury to one of the intensive care units (ICU) of a tertiary referral center, in whom EEG and/or neuroimaging for all practical purposes had ruled out residual consciousness. Exclusion criteria were deep sedation, medications with known drug interactions with brimonidine, and a history of eye disease. Age- and sex-matched healthy and awake volunteers served as controls. We measured pupils of both eyes, under scotopic conditions, at baseline and five times 5–120 min after administering brimonidine into the right eye, using automated pupillometry. Primary outcomes were miosis and anisocoria at the individual and group levels.

Results

We included 15 comatose ICU patients (seven women, mean age 59 ± 13.8 years) and 15 controls (seven women, mean age 55 ± 16.3 years). At 30 min, miosis and anisocoria were seen in all 15 controls (mean difference between the brimonidine-treated pupil and the control pupil: − 1.31 mm, 95% CI [− 1.51; − 1.11], p < 0.001), but in none (p < 0.001) of the 15 ICU patients (mean difference: 0.09 mm, 95% CI [− 0.12;0.30], p > 0.99). This effect was unchanged after 120 min and remained robust in sensitivity analyses correcting for baseline pupil size, age, and room illuminance.

Conclusion

In this proof-of-principle study, brimonidine eye drops produced anisocoria in awake volunteers but not in comatose patients with brain injury. This suggests that automated pupillometry after administration of brimonidine can distinguish between the extremes of the spectrum of consciousness (i.e., fully conscious vs. deeply comatose). A larger study testing the “intermediate zone” of disorders of consciousness in the ICU seems warranted.
A new OMA method to perform structural dynamic identification: numerical and experimental investigation
Authors: Pirrotta Antonina , Russotto Salvatore
Published: April 2023

Operational modal analysis (OMA) methods are nowadays common in civil, mechanical and aerospace engineering to identify and monitor structural systems without any knowledge on the structural excitation provided that the latter is due to ambient vibrations. For this reason, OMA methods are embedded with stochastic concepts and then it is difficult for users that have no-knowledge in signal analysis and stochastic dynamics. In this paper an innovative method useful for structural health monitoring (SHM) is proposed. It is based on the signal filtering and on the Hilbert transform of the correlation function matrix. Specifically, the modal shapes are estimated from the correlation functions matrix of the filtered output process and then the frequencies and the damping ratios are estimated from the analytical signals of the mono-component correlation functions: a complex signals in which the real part represents the correlation function and the imaginary part is its Hilbert transform. This method is very simple to use since requires only few interactions with the users and thus it can be used also from users that are not experts in the aforementioned areas. In order to prove the reliability of the proposed method, numerical simulations and experimental tests are reported also considering comparisons with the most popular OMA methods.
Multisensory processing of emotional cues predicts intrusive memories after virtual reality trauma
Authors: Heffer Naomi , Dennie Emma , Ashwin Chris , Petrini Karin , Karl Anke
Published: April 2023

Research has shown that high trait anxiety can alter multisensory processing of threat cues (by amplifying integration of angry faces and voices); however, it remains unknown whether differences in multisensory processing play a role in the psychological response to trauma. This study examined the relationship between multisensory emotion processing and intrusive memories over seven days following exposure to an analogue trauma in a sample of 55 healthy young adults. We used an adapted version of the trauma film paradigm, where scenes showing a car accident trauma were presented using virtual reality, rather than a conventional 2D film. Multisensory processing was assessed prior to the trauma simulation using a forced choice emotion recognition paradigm with happy, sad and angry voice-only, face-only, audiovisual congruent (face and voice expressed matching emotions) and audiovisual incongruent expressions (face and voice expressed different emotions). We found that increased accuracy in recognising anger (but not happiness and sadness) in the audiovisual condition relative to the voice- and face-only conditions was associated with more intrusions following VR trauma. Despite previous results linking trait anxiety and intrusion development, no significant influence of trait anxiety on intrusion frequency was observed. Enhanced integration of threat-related information (i.e. angry faces and voices) could lead to overly threatening appraisals of stressful life events and result in greater intrusion development after trauma.