bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential impacts of clinical, anatomical, and procedural factors on early and late mortality following open thoracoabdominal aortic repair: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Kim Jin Kyoung , Kim Gwan Sic , Kim Woo Seok , Kim Ho Jin , Choo Suk Jung , Kim Joon Bum
Published: June 2024

Background

The operative outcomes of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAAs) are challenged by high operative mortality and disabling complications. This study aimed to explore the baseline clinical, anatomical, and procedural risk factors that impact early and late outcomes following open repair of TAAAs.

Methods

We reviewed the medical records of 290 patients who underwent open repair of TAAAs between 1992 and 2020 at a tertiary referral center. Determinants of early mortality (within 30 days or in hospital) were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression models, while those of overall follow-up mortality were explored using multivariable Cox proportional hazards models and landmark analyses.

Results

The rates of early mortality and spinal cord deficits were 13.1% and 11.0%, respectively, with Crawford extent II showing the highest rates. In the logistic regression models, older age (P < 0.001), high cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time (P < 0.001), and low surgical volume of the surgeon (P < 0.001) emerged as independent factors significantly associated with early mortality. During follow-up (median, 5.0 years; interquartile range, 1.1–7.6 years), 82 late deaths occurred (5.7%/patient-year). Cox proportional hazards models demonstrated that older age (P < 0.001) and low hemoglobin level (P = 0.032) were significant risk factors of overall mortality, while the landmark analyses revealed that the significant impacts of low surgical volume (P = 0.017), high CPB time (P = 0.002), and Crawford extent II (P = 0.017) on mortality only remained in the early postoperative period, without significant late impacts (all P > 0.05).

Conclusion

There were differential temporal impacts of perioperative risk variables on mortality in open repair of TAAAs, with older age and low hemoglobin level having significant impacts throughout the postoperative period, and low surgical volume, high CPB time, and Crawford extent II having impacts in the early postoperative phase.
Impact of RA treatment strategies on lipids and vascular inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis: a secondary analysis of the TARGET randomized active comparator trial
Authors: Liao Katherine P. , Rist Pamela , Giles Jon , Santacroce Leah , Connelly Margery A. , Glynn Robert J. , Ridker Paul , Tawakol Ahmed , Bathon Joan , Solomon Daniel H.
Published: June 2024

Background

Treatments for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are associated with complex changes in lipids and lipoproteins that may impact cardiovascular (CV) risk. The objective of this study was to examine lipid and lipoprotein changes associated with two common RA treatment strategies, triple therapy or tumor necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi), and association with CV risk.

Methods

In this secondary data analysis of the TARGET trial, methotrexate (MTX) inadequate responders with RA were randomized to either add sulfasalazine and hydroxychloroquine (triple therapy), or TNFi for 24-weeks. The primary trial outcome was the change in arterial inflammation measured in the carotid arteries or aorta by FDG-PET/CT at baseline and 24-weeks; this change was described as the target-to-background ratio (TBR) in the most diseased segment (MDS). Routine lipids and advanced lipoproteins were measured at baseline and 24-weeks; subjects on statin therapy at baseline were excluded. Comparisons between baseline and follow-up lipid measurements were performed within and across treatment arms, as well as change in lipids and change in MDS-TBR.

Results

We studied 122 participants, 61 in each treatment arm, with median age 57 years, 76% female, and 1.5 year median RA disease duration. When comparing treatment arms, triple therapy had on average a larger reduction in triglycerides (15.9 mg/dL, p = 0.01), total cholesterol to HDL-C ratio (0.29, p-value = 0.01), and LDL particle number (111.2, p = 0.02) compared to TNFi. TNFi had on average a larger increase in HDL particle number (1.6umol/L, p = 0.006). We observed no correlation between change in lipid measurements and change in MDS-TBR within and across treatment arms.

Conclusions

Both treatment strategies were associated with improved lipid profiles via changes in different lipids and lipoproteins. These effects had no correlation with change in CV risk as measured by vascular inflammation by FDG-PET/CT.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT02374021.
Use of xylosidase 3C from Segatella baroniae to discriminate xylan non-reducing terminus substitution characteristics
Authors: St John Franz J. , Bynum Loreen , Tauscheck Dante A. , Crooks Casey
Published: June 2024

Objective

New characterized carbohydrate-active enzymes are needed for use as tools to discriminate complex carbohydrate structural features. Fungal glycoside hydrolase family 3 (GH3) β-xylosidases have been shown to be useful for the structural elucidation of glucuronic acid (GlcA) and arabinofuranose (Araf) substituted oligoxylosides. A homolog of these GH3 fungal enzymes from the bacterium Segatella baroniae (basonym Prevotella bryantii), Xyl3C, has been previously characterized, but those studies did not address important functional specificity features. In an interest to utilize this enzyme for laboratory methods intended to discriminate the structure of the non-reducing terminus of substituted xylooligosaccharides, we have further characterized this GH3 xylosidase.

Results

In addition to verification of basic functional characteristics of this xylosidase we have determined its mode of action as it relates to non-reducing end xylose release from GlcA and Araf substituted oligoxylosides. Xyl3C cleaves xylose from the non-reducing terminus of β-1,4-xylan until occurrence of a penultimate substituted xylose. If this substitution is O2 linked, then Xyl3C removes the non-reducing xylose to leave the substituted xylose as the new non-reducing terminus. However, if the substitution is O3 linked, Xyl3C does not hydrolyze, thus leaving the substitution one-xylose (penultimate) from the non-reducing terminus. Hence, Xyl3C enables discrimination between O2 and O3 linked substitutions on the xylose penultimate to the non-reducing end. These findings are contrasted using a homologous enzyme also from S. baroniae, Xyl3B, which is found to yield a penultimate substituted nonreducing terminus regardless of which GlcA or Araf substitution exists.
Onco@home: comparing the costs and reimbursement of cancer treatment at home with the standard of care
Authors: Misplon Sarah , Marneffe Wim , Missiaen Jana , Myny Dries , Decock Inge , Lervant Steve , Vaneygen Koen
Published: June 2024

Background

Oncological home hospitalization (HH) was implemented in a Belgian context to evaluate the feasibility of oncological HH. In a first HH model (HH1), implemented by three Belgian hospitals, two home nursing organizations and a grouping of independent nurses, the blood draw and monitoring prior to intravenous therapy was performed by a trained home nurse at the patient’s home the day before the visit to the day hospital. In a second HH model (HH2), implemented in one hospital, the administration of two subcutaneous treatments (Azacitidine and Bortezomib) for myelodysplastic syndrome and multiple myeloma were provided at home instead of in the hospital. A previous study on this pilot showed that oncological HH is feasible and safe and improves the Quality of Life. The aim of this study is to investigate the cost and reimbursement of cancer treatment in these two HH models compared to the Standard of Care (SOC).

Methods

A bottom-up micro-costing study was conducted to compare the costs and revenues for the providers (hospitals and home care organizations) of the SOC and the HH models.

Results

Costs associated to HH were higher than the SOC in the hospital. Comparing revenues with costs, the research revealed that the reimbursement from the National Health Insurance of HH for oncological patients is insufficient. In HH1, costs were higher than in the SOC (+ €50.4). There was a reduction in costs in the hospital by moving the blood draw to the home setting (-€23.9), but the costs in home care were higher (+ €74.3). The extra revenues in home care (+ €33.6) were insufficient to cover the costs. The cost difference between the SOC and HH2 (+ €9.5 for Azacetidine) was smaller than in HH1. But, there was almost no funding for subcutaneous administration in home care. If the product is administered in a day hospital, the hospital receives a revenue of €124 per administration, while in home care the funding is €5 per visit.

Conclusion

Costs of HH are higher and the reimbursement from Belgian NHI is insufficient to organize HH. As a result, HH for oncology patient is still limited in Belgium.
Maladaptive exercise in eating disorders: lifetime and current impact on mental health and treatment seeking
Authors: Liao Zhenxin , Birgegård Andreas , Monell Elin , Borg Stina , Bulik Cynthia M , Mantilla Emma Forsén
Published: June 2024

Background

Many patients with eating disorders report exercise as a central symptom of their illness—as a way to compensate for food intake, prevent weight-gain, and/or reduce negative affect. Previous findings show associations between maladaptive exercise and more severe eating disorder pathology, higher risk for relapse, other co-morbid symptoms, and worse treatment outcome.

Methods

In this study, we included 8252 participants with eating disorders and investigated associations between maladaptive exercise (both lifetime and current) and ED pathology, illness duration, depression, anxiety, self-harm and suicidal ideation, and treatment seeking patterns in individuals with lifetime maladaptive exercise. Participants were included via the Swedish site of the large global study The Eating Disorders Genetics Initiative (EDGI) and completed measures of both lifetime and current symptomatology.

Results

Results indicate that lifetime maladaptive exercise is associated with higher prevalence of lifetime depression and anxiety and with patients more often receiving treatment, although these results need to be investigated in future studies. Current maladaptive exercise was associated with more severe ED symptoms, and higher levels of depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive traits, and suicidal ideation.

Conclusions

Our findings point to the complexities of exercise as an eating disorder symptom and the need for clearly assessing and acknowledging this, as well as tailoring interventions to treat this symptom to achieve sustainable recovery.
Risk of fracture in massive cultural objects made of lime wood: a case study of Veit Stoss’ altarpiece
Authors: Soboń Magdalena , Bratasz Łukasz
Published: June 2024

Massive cultural objects made of wood are often situated in historic interiors in which they experience uncontrolled dynamic variations of relative humidity (RH). Although the objects usually have acclimatized to the natural climate variability, preventing risks related to any kind of modification of their environment requires an understanding of the object’s response to the expected changes. In the present study, an analysis of the risk of cracking related to continuous or intermittent heating, or the transfer to hypothetically ideal conditions in a conservation studio was performed for the case of elements of Veit Stoss’ altarpiece (1477–1489) preserved in St. Mary’s Basilica in Krakow, Poland. Massive sculptures carved in lime wood and approximately one meter in diameter were analysed. The study aimed at determining safe margins of environment modifications that would not cause propagation of cracks that are known to have accumulated in wood during centuries of the altarpiece’s existence. The mechanical properties of lime wood were determined experimentally to feed the numerical model. The energy release rates around the tips of cracks of various depths in a wooden sculpture were calculated using the finite element analysis and compared with the critical value of the parameter triggering the fracture propagation in the material, derived from the fracture energy measurement. It was shown that the church interior housing the altarpiece can be heated to 11 °C during the cold season to provide human comfort. The allowable duration of intermittent heating events to more comfortable 18 °C that would induce drops in RH of up to 40% was assessed as 12 h. The study demonstrated that moving the sculptures to the conservation studio would have to be done with extreme caution as it would be connected with risks depending on the depth of existing cracks and the duration of the RH change.
Three-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography for evaluation of ventricular function in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: relationship between duration of lupus erythematosus and left ventricular dysfunction by using global longitudinal strain
Authors: Akiash Nehzat , Abbaspour Somayeh , Mowla Karim , Moradi Amir , Madjidi Shahla , Sharifi Parisa , Pazoki Mahboubeh
Published: June 2024

Background

Cardiovascular diseases are leading causes of morbidity and mortality in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Cardiac involvement in SLE can often go undetected. Three-dimensional (3D) speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) is a noninvasive imaging technique that can assess the function of the heart’s ventricles in an accurate and reproducible way. This makes it an attractive option for detecting early signs of heart disease in SLE patients. By identifying these subclinical cardiac abnormalities, 3D-STE may help reduce the negative impact of cardiovascular diseases in SLE population. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the left ventricular (LV) function between patients with SLE compared to age- and gender-matched controls using two-dimensional (2D) and 3D-STE.

Results

The current study found no significant differences in left ventricle ejection fraction, left ventricle end-diastolic volume, left ventricle end-systolic volume, left ventricle end-diastolic mass, and left ventricle end-systolic mass between the two groups. However, the SLE group exhibited a significantly lower LV global longitudinal strain (GLS) compared to the control group according to all types of echocardiographic assessments, including 3D and 2D long-axis strain, apical 2-chamber, and apical 4-chamber assessments (all P values < 0.05). Furthermore, a good inter-rater reliability and intra-rater reliability were observed regarding the LVGLS measurement with 3D-STE. Additionally, the study identified a significant correlation between LVGLS and SLE duration (r (50) = 0.46, P < 0.001). The use of prednisolone and nephrology disorders was also found to impact LVGLS measurements.

Conclusions

Despite a normal LVEF in patients with SLE, LVGLS measurements indicated that LV systolic dysfunction was observed more frequently in SLE patients compared to their healthy counterparts. Therefore, advanced 3D-STE techniques may be useful in identifying subtle abnormalities in LV function in SLE patients.
Quantitation of micro and nanoplastics in human blood by pyrolysis-gas chromatography–mass spectrometry
Authors: Brits Marthinus , van Velzen Martin J. M. , Sefiloglu Feride Öykü , Scibetta Lorenzo , Groenewoud Quinn , Garcia-Vallejo Juan J. , Vethaak A. Dick , Brandsma Sicco H. , Lamoree Marja H.
Published: June 2024

The limited available data on human internal exposure poses a significant challenge in assessing the risks associated with micro and nanoplastics (MNPs) to human health. A contributing factor to this challenge is the scarcity of sensitive analytical methods to quantify the mass concentration of plastic polymers in human blood. In this study we present an improved and validated method for quantitatively analysing polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), polypropylene, and polystyrene in human whole blood samples. We introduce and apply stringent quality assurance and quality control procedures, including the validation of the method using quality control samples and continuous monitoring of batch analyses to ensure data reliability. Expanding upon prior pioneering work by Leslie et al. (2022), we optimised the pyrolysis-gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (Py-GC-MS) conditions to enhance method sensitivity and selectivity. Recovery experiments demonstrated a high level of accuracy and precision, with values ranging from 68 to 109% for quality control samples. Applying this method to whole blood samples (n = 68), we identified plastic polymers in 64 samples, with PE as the predominant polymer, followed by PVC, PET, and PMMA. In 17 blood samples, polymer concentrations were found to exceed the limit of quantitation, with a mean of 1070 ng/mL for the summed polymer concentrations, ranging between 170 and 2490 ng/mL. The mean of the sum of polymers across all blood samples (n = 68) was 268 ng/mL. These findings underscore the pressing need for further research aimed at comprehensive MNP quantification in human matrices, considering the potential health implications.
Evolutionary dynamics of memory-one extortion and generosity on scale-free simplices
Authors: Zhu Lei , Zhu Yuying , Xia Chengyi
Published: June 2024

Both extortionate and generous strategies within the framework of zero-determinant (ZD) strategy can be linearly related to the opponent's payoffs. Here we explore their evolutionary performances for both iterated two-player and multi-player games. We mainly investigate two scenarios on simplicial complexes: one is the evolutionary scenario with cooperation (C), defection (D) and extortion (E), the other is the cooperation, defection and generosity (G). We find that both extortion and generosity can help cooperators resist the invasion of defectors. Intriguingly, the extortioner, who always enforces higher payoff than co-players, is more beneficial to promote cooperation than generosity. Compared with kindness and indulgence, being strict with the co-players can actually maintain cooperative behaviors in the long run. Simulations on the simplicial complexes revel that the catalytic effect of extortion on the evolution of cooperation even be more obvious in iterated multi-player social dilemmas than the two-player case, hence cooperation becomes more popular when the networks include more 2-simplex interactions. Our results can help to illustrate the role of higher-order interaction in the evolution of altruistic behaviors.
Healthcare Resource Use Associated With Tumor-Induced Osteomalacia: A Literature Review
Authors: Jan de Beur Suzanne M , Dahir Kathryn M , Imel Erik A , Zanchetta María Belén , Williams Angela , Li Zhiyi , Webb Neil , Crowe Victoria , Johnson Ben , Carpenter Thomas O
Published: June 2024

Context

Tumor-induced osteomalacia (TIO) is an ultra-rare, paraneoplastic syndrome caused by tumors that secrete fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23). Initial signs and musculoskeletal symptoms can be nonspecific and unrecognized, leading to long delays in diagnosis and treatment, and resulting in severe and progressive disability in patients with TIO.

Objective

This review aimed to identify published evidence on healthcare resource use in TIO to better understand the burden of the disease.

Evidence acquisition

A targeted literature review was conducted to identify publications reporting on disease characteristics and healthcare resource use associated with TIO.

Evidence synthesis

In total, 414 publications were included in the review, of which 376 were case reports. From the case reports, data on 621 patients were extracted. These patients had a mean (SD) age of 46.3 (15.8) years; 57.6% were male. Mean time from first symptoms to diagnosis of TIO was 4.6 (4.7) years and, in cases where imaging tests were reported, patients underwent a mean of 4.1 (2.7) procedures. Tumor resection was attempted in 81.0% of patients and successful in 67.0%. Fracture was reported in 49.3% of patients. Results from association analyses demonstrated that longer time to diagnosis was associated with poorer tumor resection outcomes and a higher probability of tumor recurrence. Unfavorable tumor resection outcomes were associated with greater use of pharmacologic treatment and a greater likelihood of orthopedic surgery.

Conclusion

TIO is associated with a substantial healthcare resource burden. Improvements in the diagnostic process could lead to better management of TIO, thereby benefiting patients and reducing that burden.
Allorecognition behaviors in Myxomycetes respond to intraspecies factors
Authors: Masui Mana , Yamamoto Phillip K. , Kono Nobuaki
Published: June 2024

Myxomycetes are multinucleate unicellular organisms. They form a Plasmodium that moves by protoplasmic flow and prey on microorganisms. When encountering intraspecifics, the plasmodium has the capacity for ‘fusion’, actively approaching and fusing its cells, or ‘avoidance’, altering its direction to avoid the other individual. This is an allorecognition ability. However, it remains unclear whether the range of allorecognition extends to other species, and its ecological significance is also obscure. Here, we conducted a quantitative evaluation of contact responses from closely related species of plasmodium to clarify the range of allorecognition behaviors in Myxomycetes. Behavioral assays demonstrated that allorecognition behaviors are specifically observed within individuals of the same species, indicating that these behaviors are a phenomenon unique to intraspecies interactions. Myxomycetes allorecognition is an extremely narrow and inward-focused behavior, suggesting a highly specialized mechanism.
Effectiveness of Prehabilitation Modalities on Postoperative Outcomes Following Colorectal Cancer Surgery: A Systematic Review of Randomised Controlled Trials
Authors: Steffens Daniel , Nott Finley , Koh Cherry , Jiang Wilson , Hirst Nicholas , Cole Ruby , Karunaratne Sascha , West Malcolm A. , Jack Sandy , Solomon Michael J.
Published: June 2024

Background

Postoperative morbidity in patients undergoing curative colorectal cancer surgery is high. Prehabilitation has been suggested to reduce postoperative morbidity, however its effectiveness is still lacking.

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of prehabilitation in reducing postoperative morbidity and length of hospital stay in patients undergoing colorectal cancer surgery.

Methods

A comprehensive electronic search was conducted in the CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Medline, PsychINFO, AMED, and Embase databases from inception to April 2023. Randomised controlled trials testing the effectiveness of prehabilitation, including exercise, nutrition, and/or psychological interventions, compared with usual care in patients undergoing colorectal cancer surgery were included. Two independent review authors extracted relevant information and assessed the risk of bias. Random-effect meta-analyses were used to pool outcomes, and the quality of evidence was assessed using Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) guidelines.

Results

A total of 23 trials were identified (N = 2475 patients), including multimodal (3 trials), exercise (3 trials), nutrition (16 trials), and psychological (1 trial) prehabilitation. There was moderate-quality evidence that preoperative nutrition significantly reduced postoperative infectious complications (relative risk 0.65, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.45–0.94) and low-quality evidence on reducing the length of hospital stay (mean difference 0.87, 95% CI 0.17–1.58) compared with control. A single trial demonstrated an effect of multimodal prehabilitation on postoperative complication.

Conclusion

Nutrition prehabilitation was effective in reducing infectious complications and length of hospital stay. Whether other multimodal, exercise, and psychological prehabilitation modalities improve postoperative outcomes after colorectal cancer surgery is uncertain as the current quality of evidence is low.

Protocol Registration

Open Science Framework (https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/VW72N).
How an international research programme can contribute to improvements in the research environment: the perspective of doctoral students in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: El Hajj Taghreed , Wiltgen Georgi Neele , Crossman Susie , Tagoe Nadia , Bates Imelda
Published: June 2024

Background The Africa Capacity Building Initiative (ACBI) programme aimed to ‘strengthen the research and training capacity of higher education institutions and support the development of individual scientists in sub-Saharan Africa through UK-Africa research collaborations’ including by funding PhD studentships. We conducted research to understand students’ experiences and to see how consortia-based programmes such as ACBI and their own institutions can enhance PhD students’ research environment and progress. Methods In-depth interviews with 35 ACBI-funded PhD students explored their perspectives about how their research and personal development benefitted from belonging to a research consortium. Questionnaires were used to corroborate interview findings. Results Students recognised that membership of a research consortium provided many benefits compared to less well-resourced peers. By drawing on the programme and consortiums’ resources, they were often able to overcome some limitations in their own institution’s systems and facilities. Through their consortia they could access a wide range of international expertise and support from mentors and colleagues for their technical and psychosocial needs. Multiple consortia opportunities for engaging with the international scientific community and for networking, gave them confidence and motivation and enhanced their career prospects. Conclusion Our study and its recommendations highlight how the breadth and diversity of resources available to PhD students through research consortia can be harnessed to facilitate students’ progress and to create a supportive and conducive research environment. It also underlines how, through a multi-level approach, consortia can contribute to longer-term improvements in institutional research environments for PhD students.
General practitioners’ and women’s experiences of perimenopause consultations: A qualitative evidence synthesis protocol
Authors: McCarthy Laura-Jane , O'Mahony Aoife , Jennings Aisling , McHugh Sheena M.
Published: June 2024

Background Perimenopause precedes menopause and can cause a myriad of symptoms for women. General practitioners (GPs) are frequently the first contact for perimenopausal women with symptoms. However, women express feeling dissatisfied with the consultations they have with their GPs for perimenopausal symptoms. Moreover, diagnostic difficulties can make these consultations challenging for GPs. Despite these challenges, research to date has focused on menopause, not the transition to menopause. To date, no evidence synthesis has examined how women experience perimenopause consultations, nor how GPs experience providing care to these women. Objective To systematically search, collate, and appraise the qualitative literature to understand general practitioners' and women's experiences of perimenopause consultations and examine how treatment decisions are made during consultations. Methods A meta-ethnography will be conducted following Sattar et al. (2021) guidelines for conducting a meta-ethnography as developed by Noblit and Hare (1988). Seven databases will be systematically searched. To be included, studies must report on the experiences of either general practitioners and/or perimenopausal women and published since 2014 to capture the most up-to-date evidence. Quality assessment will be conducted using CASP (Critical Appraisal Skills Programme) tools. A GRADE-CERqual (Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative research) will be conducted to assess the confidence of the findings. PROSPERO registration number CRD42024520537. Discussion Findings will provide new and useful insight into how GPs and women experience consultations for perimenopause and how decisions are made during these consultations.
A DNA barcoding framework for taxonomic verification in the Darwin Tree of Life Project
Authors: Twyford Alex D. , Beasley Jordan , Barnes Ian , Allen Heather , Azzopardi Freja , Bell David , Blaxter Mark L. , Broad Gavin , Campos-Dominguez Lucia , Choonea Darren , Crowley Liam , Cuber Piotr , Cunliffe Michael , Dombrowski Alexandra , Douglas Brian , Forrest Laura L. , Gaya Ester , Greeves Clementine , Griffin Claire , Harley Joanna , Hart Michelle L. , Holland Peter W.H. , Hollingsworth Peter M. , Januszczak Inez , Jones Amanda , Kersey Paul , Kilias Estelle , Lawniczak Mara K.N. , Lewis Owen T. , Mian Sahr , Minotto Alice , Misra Raju , Mulhair Peter O. , Pereira da Conceicoa Lyndall , Price Ben W. , Salatino Silvia , Shaw Felix , Sivell Olga , Sivess Laura , Uhl Rebekka , Woof Kieran ,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: June 2024

Biodiversity genomics research requires reliable organismal identification, which can be difficult based on morphology alone. DNA-based identification using DNA barcoding can provide confirmation of species identity and resolve taxonomic issues but is rarely used in studies generating reference genomes. Here, we describe the development and implementation of DNA barcoding for the Darwin Tree of Life Project (DToL), which aims to sequence and assemble high quality reference genomes for all eukaryotic species in Britain and Ireland. We present a standardised framework for DNA barcode sequencing and data interpretation that is then adapted for diverse organismal groups. DNA barcoding data from over 12,000 DToL specimens has identified up to 20% of samples requiring additional verification, with 2% of seed plants and 3.5% of animal specimens subsequently having their names changed. We also make recommendations for future developments using new sequencing approaches and streamlined bioinformatic approaches.
significance of physical activity in behavioral management of type 2 diabetes. Interventions and Improving Outcomes in Type 2 Diabetes Management
Authors: Czapska Mirella , Wojcik Alicja , Pakaszewski Wojciech , Krawczyk Lidia , Kwiecień Bartłomiej , Babkiewicz-Jahn Kamila , Matuszewska Justyna
Published: June 2024

Abstract:
Introduction and purpose
Diabetes is a set of metabolic disorders whose common, characteristic feature is the occurrence of hyperglycemia. Elevated glycemia levels result from impaired insulin secretion and/or defects in its action. In type 2 diabetes, we have modified risk factors such as improper diet, reduced physical activity, and obesity. In the context of these reversible factors, intervention in patients' lifestyle, with particular emphasis on physical activity, seems advisable.
To investigate the implementation of recommendations for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, relating to physical activity as a component of behavioral treatment of diabetes.
Materials and methods. Author's survey covering patients' knowledge about their disease, needs and expectations regarding education. The questionnaire examines the physical activity of patients newly diagnosed and already treated for type 2 diabetes.
Results. The most frequently undertaken exercise was of medium intensity in the form of walking or "Nordic walking". This was also more likely to be intensified. Patients choosing this type of activity practiced it much more often and more regularly than other types of activity. Running and cycling were other activities undertaken by the patients, although in the younger group of patients.
Patients who enjoyed physical exercise were more likely and willing to do it and it was more regular.
Conclusions. Patients were reluctant to undertake physical exercise and usually did not treat it as an integral part of treatment. Usually, it was not a very intense effort. They also rarely intensified it when the diagnosis was made. Most of the respondents did not understand the role of exercise in the treatment process and its impact on sugar levels.
Triplex cogitandi ratio cum methodo Jana Śniadeckiego – nowe źródło do dziejów logiki i epistemologii w szkolnictwie Komisji Edukacji Narodowej
Authors: Tkaczyk Marcin , Janeczek Stanisław , Starościc Anna
Published: June 2024

The objective of this paper is to present the intellectual context, partially philosophical, of a newly discovered source for the history of Polish logic and epistemology. The source is the manuscript of lectures on logic given in the so-called Nowodworski Schools, a secondary school associated with the Kraków Academy. The lecture was given in the school year 1777/1778 by Jan Śniadecki (1756–1830), a leading thinker of the Polish Enlightenment – mathematician, astronomer, philosopher and pedagogical activist, including a rector of the Vilnius University. A preliminary interpretation of the manuscript is also delivered, classifying it as an exemplification of philosophia recentiorum. That philosophical and scientific trend, typical of education in the second half of the 18th century, was programmatically eclectic. It assimilated threads of modern epistemology and modern science into the course of philosophy characteristic of modern Christian Aristotelianism (second scholasticism). The article also announces the first critical edition of the manuscript being prepared. It seems to be essential for understanding the first stage of Śniadecki’s work, as well as for understanding the specificity of the education system in the schools supervised by the Commission of National Education, established in 1773.
Neoplatonizm i chrześcijaństwo w twórczości Synezjusza z Cyreny (370–414) – przyczynek do zagadnienia
Authors: Kroczak Justyna
Published: June 2024

The article presents creative personality of Synesius of Cyrene (4th/5th century CE) against the background of ideological tendences of late antiquity. It aims to answer two questions: First, whether the term Christian Neoplatonism, rightly criticized in relation to patristic writers, reflect the nature of Synesius' outlook, and second, whether his work significantly complements our image of late antiquity in its philosophical aspect, viewed as a clash between Christian and classical, mainly Neoplatonic, philosophic paradigms. Synesius’ rich correspondence, consisting of one hundred and fifty-six letters, provides the main source for the present analysis; yet, his other works (mainly the Hymns) and biographical details are also drawn upon to attain a wholistic perspective. This broader selection of sources is necessary because a reading of his works leaves some doubt as to his ideological affiliation. On the one hand, he was a disciple of Hypatia, and, on the other, a friend of St. Theophi lus of Alexandria, who called him to the post of  bishop. These and other ambiguities in the life and outlook of Synesius make him an interesting object of analysis.
A Distributed Virtual Learning Environment (DVLE) for a Constructively Aligned Architectural Design Studio
Authors: Alessandro Camiz
Published: June 2024

In the last 30 years there has been extensive research about online teaching, outlining the importance of the interaction modes and the constructive alignment of the intended learning outcomes (ILO) and the teaching and learning activities (TLA) (Shuell, 1986), (Houghton, 2004), (Laurillard, 2012), (Biggs and Tang, 2011). Nevertheless, the literature about online teaching for architectural design is quite scarce and seems to ignore the recent findings of pedagogy (Rongrong, Gu, Skates and Feast, 2021), (Quintelli. Maretto, Prandi and Gandolfi, 2020), (Bologna and Trisciuoglio 2020). In order to update our syllabi for online teaching during the pandemics we established a dedicated research unit, named “Online Architecture”, at Özyeğin University, (Camiz, Verdiani, Özkuvancı and Alak, 2020). Therein we tested several online tools that could be used to constructively align the teaching and learning activities (TLA) and the intended learning outcomes (ILO) of our online architectural studios. After selecting the proper tools, we aligned them with the ILO and deployed them within a Distributed Virtual Learning Environment (DVLE). This paper illustrates the finding of such a research unit and describes the applications of the DVLE in the architectural design studios for the years 2020- 2021.
Distance learning of designing high-performance, sustainable, intelligent buildings at the Faculty of Architecture of the Silesian University of Technology
Authors: Dariusz Masły
Published: June 2024

The article presents experiences from the use of distance learning methods during project classes, seminars and lectures. The author conducts 3 courses in the field of sustainable architecture, high-performing buildings, energy efficiency and modern methods for simulating the building performance. These are: “New Technologies and Methods in Architecture Design”, “Intelligent Building - Building Performance Analysis” and “Specialist design resulting from local conditions”. Students taking the courses are in the first year of Master’s studies at the Silesian University of Technology (SUT). Following the European Bologna model, this program at SUT lasts one and a half years and requires a bachelor’s degree.
Rarefied atmospheres
Authors: Esther Giani
Published: June 2024

We have been using remote connections for many years, for decades; already in the past millennium it was largely in use by several industrial holding companies, in politics, in journalism, in entertainment. But only in the last two years, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the call system has undergone an unexpected development: modified and enriched platforms, simplifications in connections, expansion of accessibility. A sort of interaction pseudo-democratization. Today and in few months, video-calling has become a widespread custom regardless of social media; it’s strongly inter-generational and available even from faraway places. What are the consequences of this new pervasive competence and what the rebounds on the practice of knowledge transmission? The emerging scenarios are different and depend on many variations. The aim of this short contribution is to trace a framework, a field of possibilities, using a simple and proven analytical analysis: the SWOT.
Changing the Curriculum in Architectural Education: the Case of the Trans-African Dialogues Series
Authors: Maria Panta  , Joseph Agyei Danquah
Published: June 2024

The paper describes the authors’ direct experience with an elective module entitled, Trans-African Dialogues: Drawing on existing knowledge, strengths, skills, resources & innovation. It offers a framework on how this module was initiated, developed and delivered in the faculty of Architecture and Urban Design at the German University in Cairo (GUC) during the Spring semester 2021. The module, intended specifically for the 10th semester architecture students with a view to inform their design studio thinking, builds upon the findings of the author’s doctoral research project and primary fieldwork in Ghana (Panta, 2018); it investigates themes such as architectural education, its curriculum, and the need to rethink the discipline and its practice from a broader environmental and cultural perspective.
Distance teaching of the history of architecture and urban design?
Authors: Camille Bidaud
Published: June 2024

Since at least the 1990s, the educational sciences have generally criticised the format of lectures1 and have instead encouraged active teaching methods2. However, in France, lectures without teacher-student interaction remain the most common teaching format in many subjects. The lack of change in this situation can be explained by the fact that this format is more economical in terms of staffing rates. In addition, the teaching of certain subjects, such as history, is not really conducive to work based on experience and collaboration. However, even in the context of a lecture, some active teaching exercises can be put in place by teachers who are interested in trying new approaches. The main obstacle is then the lack of training in teaching and educational sciences for the teachers in France. Having worked for nearly a year on an ANR Program (Agence Nationale de la Recherche, a national research organisation in France) on the hybridisation of higher education courses on bio-geo-sourced resources for renovation and construction, my research and training in this context encouraged me to think in this direction.
Reinventing the pedagogy: about architectural and urban utopias. The experience of teaching the humanities and social sciences in a school of architecture during a pandemic.
Authors: Milena Guest  , Roula Maya  , Antonella Di Trani
Published: June 2024

The frenzy of the metropolises calmed down completely during the pandemic, when the economy seemed to come to a standstill, thus raising the question of their sustainability. Perceived space is often dislocated by “flat” screens which are interposed between our bodies and their immediate surroundings, while the space we live in is reduced to the “15-minute city”. The continued teaching of architecture is responsible for the future and training of architects-to-be; the renovation of existing buildings to design built forms is becoming more and more significant, and the health crisis is shaking up our relationship to space in an unprecedented way.
ArchéA and the pandemic: the Cesena Campus experience
Authors: Lamberto Amistadi
Published: June 2024

During the ArchéA program within the single- cycle Master’s Degree Course in Architecture of the University of Bologna - Cesena Campus, different Teaching/Larning methods of architectural design were tested and verified: physical attendance, entirely remote, and blended. In addition to describing these different methods, this paper intends to reflect on their effectiveness in relation to the student’s educational path, on the specificity of teaching architectural and urban design, and on the future perspectives of the use of new Information Communication Technologies (ICT). If the innovation concerns the methodology of teaching architecture, some issues related to specific Higher Education training in architecture must be mentioned.
Il workshop in architettura. Un processo di apprendimento in progress
Authors: João Barros Matos  , Rui Mendes
Published: June 2024

Si riconosce che il workshop costituisce un modello dinamico di apprendimento, in continua evoluzione e sperimentazione, e in grado di essere costantemente riformulato per giungere a nuove e stimolanti situazioni per insegnare la pratica dell'architettura. Si tratta infatti di un modello particolarmente adatto alla ricerca di un approccio globale e coerente al progetto architettonico, dato che evita di separare gli argomenti in frammenti isolati nel processo progettuale. Riunire i gruppi di lavoro nello stesso spazio e nel tempo limitato a disposizione richiede un pensiero intenso e un ritmo di produzione che aiuta a migliorare il rapporto tra i riferimenti teorici riportabili al soggetto trattato e gli aspetti relativi all'elaborazione e alla comunicazione del progetto architettonico.
Un progetto per Padova. Piazzale Stanga e Via Venezia
Authors: Gino Malacarne
Published: June 2024

Piazzale Stanga e via Venezia a Padova costituiscono lo scenario del progetto che ridefinisce un crocevia viabilistico a stella, caratterizzante un luogo che non presenta qualità architettoniche di rilievo. Il progetto ha cercato di dare forma a questo spazio attraverso l’architettura, cercando di costruire per frammenti il tema della porta urbana. Il progetto si presenta con una serie di edifici autonomi che danno vita ad un insieme urbano articolato in un arcipelago di punti singolari, tenuti assieme dai rapporti di tensione reciproca che si stabiliscono tra i diversi elementi nello spazio.
Editoriale: Dove sta andando la ricerca nei dottorati di progettazione architettonica in Italia?
Authors: Enrico Prandi
Published: June 2024

Tra ottobre e novembre del 2014 si sono svolti in Italia, a Parma e Venezia, due importanti incontri sui dottorati di ricerca della progettazione architettonica. Uno, il primo, – svoltosi nell’ambito delle manifestazioni del decennale del Festival dell’Architettura 2004-2014 e più circoscritto alla Composizione architettonica e urbana e al suo insegnamento d’eccellenza –, ha visto alternare alle presentazioni delle ricerche (che compongono il numero 30 di FAmagazine) momenti di dibattito sui corsi di dottorato in progettazione/composizione architettonica. L’altro, il secondo, più sistematico nel voler affrontare il problema generale della massima formazione accademica nei diversi settori dell’architettura, della pianificazione urbanistica e del design, si è svolto all’IUAV di Venezia in un convegno di due giorni denso di spunti operativi.
Editoriale: Epifenomeni
Authors: Andreas Kofler
Published: June 2024

Gli effetti collaterali sono noti nella medicina come risultato secondario, per esempio, di un intervento chirurgico, di una medicazione specifica, oppure – come generalmente noto – di stimolanti. Sebbene siano comunemente associati con effetti indesiderati e avversi, possono essere anche di beneficio, al punto che qualche terapia o farmaco viene prescritto appositamente a causa dei loro difetti.Come comune denominatore, i nostri contributi a quest'edizione di FAmagazine si concentrano su entrambi i casi e su una comprensione imparziale degli eventi collaterali, in particolare nel contesto dell’urbanistica e dell’architettura, essendo quest'ultima o un effetto collaterale di un’altra dinamica oppure, involontariamente o consciamente, introdotta da un fenomeno supplementare.
La dispositio informale della "Soft Machine"
Authors: Thomas Mical
Published: June 2024

Questo saggio affronta i termini concettuali e le conseguenze di una forma “soft” di dispositio vitruviana come possibilità attuale della relazione tra architettura e città. La tendenza verso il “morbido” e l'informale nell'architettura e nel progetto urbano genera nuove modulazioni concettuali  del tessuto urbano. I processi sociali di assemblage di componenti corrispondono oggi ad un avanzamento, in cui una dispositio “soft” ordina le mutevoli fasi/spazi della vita urbana e sostituisce la precedente logica modernista astratta delle macchine, dello spazio striato e del determinismo funzionale.
Territori del cibo e dell'energia. Gestione efficiente delle risorse nella smart city: nuovi temi di progetto
Authors: Barbara Melis  , Graziella Roccella
Published: June 2024

Nutrirsi e produrre energia per i propri fabbisogni sono aspetti intrinseci dell’abitare che, in epoca di smart city, la città deve affrontare in maniera sistemica rispetto alle risorse del proprio territorio per il benessere economico, ambientale e sociale della comunità. Il rilancio dell’importanza delle filiere corte, tanto in campo agroalimentare quanto in quello energetico puro, rimette in gioco gli equilibri interni del paesaggio costruito e ridefinisce le gerarchie nell’organizzazione della piattaforma produttiva, stimolando una riflessione su rinnovati temi di progetto in ambito urbano metropolitano.
Dispositio come carattere e identità dell'opera
Authors: Renato Capozzi
Published: June 2024

Ancora un numero di FAMagazine [1] sulla dipositio, ancora a partire da Vitruvio, ancora una riflessione su alcuni termini e procedure centrali della composizione architettonica qui sondati nella relazione tra la diposizione, il carattere e l’identità dell’opera. Nella voce “dipositio” dell’Enciclopedia dell’Arte Antica Treccani l’archeologo e storico dell’arte Silvio
Sull'identità dell'architettura italiana tra Teoria e Città
Authors: Federica Visconti
Published: June 2024

Il saggio affronta il delicato tema della possibilità di costruzione di una identità della architettura italiana, a partire da quanto elaborato e prodotto nella seconda Novecento, fondata su due termini fondamentali: teoria, da un lato, e città dall’altro. Costanti nel pensiero di Maestri quali Rogers, Samonà e Quaroni, le questioni della architettura della città trovano nella analogia rossiana, innanzitutto come teoria del progetto, una possibile strada per governare ancora oggi la complessità del mondo contemporaneo.