bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Actor Perceptions of the Governance Framework and Non-Carbon Benefits from the Ghana Cocoa Forest REDD+ Program: An Extended Q-Study of the Juabuso-Bia Hotspot Intervention Area
Authors: Dugasseh Frank Akowuge , Adams Marshall Alhassan , Zandersen Marianne
Published: May 2024

The expansion of cocoa farms is a major driver of deforestation and emissions in Ghana’s high forest zone. The Ghana Cocoa Forest Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation Program (REDD+) was launched as the world’s first commodity-based initiative to address emissions from deforestation caused by cocoa production and generate non-carbon benefits. Hotspot Intervention Areas were established to implement the Ghana Cocoa REDD+ program. This study combines Q-methodology with focus group discussions and interviews to assess stakeholder perceptions in the Juabuso-Bia cocoa landscape regarding the capacity of the Hotspot Intervention Area to facilitate the generation of governance and economic non-carbon benefits to sustain emission reductions. We found that introducing the Hotspot Intervention Area has re-centralized landscape governance, which, coupled with weak collaboration among stakeholders, has led to poor generation of non-carbon benefits. Furthermore, efforts to include women in the leadership structure of the Hotspot Intervention Area can be described as tokenism, and little has been done to improve land and tree tenure for vulnerable groups. This, combined with the low adoption of climate-smart cocoa practices, is likely to negatively affect the generation of economic non-carbon benefits. To overcome these challenges, we recommend reforming the Hotspot Intervention Area, bolstering community-level sensitization, improving access to decision-making spaces that will enhance the participation of women and minority groups in landscape governance, and improving farmers’ tenure security through a registration scheme for land and trees. These recommendations can ensure the efficient generation of non-carbon benefits, which are key to the success of REDD+.
Endovascular Treatment of Pelvic Venous Congestion Syndrome in Nulliparous Patients—Preliminary Results of 10 Years of Experience
Authors: Szmygin Maciej , Pyra Krzysztof , Bèrczi Viktor , Woźniak Sławomir , Światłowski Łukasz , Paszkowski Tomasz
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The aim of this article is to present our experience with minimally-invasive treatment for nulliparous patients with pelvic venous congestion syndrome (PVCS) with special attention to anatomical considerations, procedural and clinical outcome.

Materials and Methods

In this retrospective, monocentric study, 21 patients with PVCS treated from January 2014 to June 2023 were included. The preprocedural imaging evaluation of PVCS was based on color Doppler ultrasound, contrast-enhanced CT and/or MRI. In all cases insufficient ovarian veins and/or internal iliac branches were occluded with coils and sclerosant. Procedural and clinical outcomes were measured 30 and 90 days after the procedure.

Results

Average duration of pelvic pain was 44.8 ± 54.2 months (from 6 to 200) with the mean VAS-recorded pain intensity of 8.5 ± 1.1 (range from 7 to 10 where 0 was “no pain” and 10 “worst pain possible”). Most common symptoms included dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia and dysuria. Complete embolization was observed in in all cases. Targeted vessels included left ovarian vein (13/21, 62%), both ovarian veins (7/21, 33%) and left pudendal with left ovarian (1/21, 5%). Residual PVCS was noted in 1 patient. Mean VAS at 90-days after the procedure was 2.4 ± 1.4 (range from 0 to 6, p < 0.001). Nineteen patients (90%) were satisfied with the clinical outcome (13 “very satisfied”, 6 “satisfied”) and reported improvement in quality of life. Two patients (9.5%) reported to be “neutral” as the VAS reduction was less than 50%.

Conclusion

Our study confirms that endovascular coil embolization is safe and effective in treatment of nulliparous patients with PVCS that provides very high rate of clinical success and overall satisfaction.

Graphical Abstract
Networks of Classical Conditioning Gates and Their Learning
Authors: Azuma Shun-ichi , Takakura Dai , Ariizumi Ryo , Asai Toru
Published: May 2024

A research project on chemical AI, called the Molecular Cybernetics Project, was launched in Japan in 2021 with the goal of creating a molecular machine that can learn a type of conditioned reflex through the process of classical conditioning. In this project, we have developed a learning method for the network of such learning molecular machines, which is reported in this paper. First, as a model of a learning molecular machine, we formulate a logic gate that can learn conditioned reflex and introduce the network of the logic gates. Then we derive a key principle for learning, called the flipping principle, by which we present a learning algorithm for the network to realize a desired function.
The utility of synoptic operation reports in colorectal surgery: a systematic review
Authors: Nikolic Amanda , Tranter-Entwistle Isaac , McCombie Andrew , Connor Saxon , Eglinton Tim
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Accurate documentation is crucial in surgical patient care. Synoptic reports (SR) are structured checklist-based reports that offer a standardised alternative to traditional narrative reports (NR). This systematic review aims to assess the completeness of SR compared to NR in colorectal cancer (CRC) surgery. Secondary outcomes include the time to completion, surgeon satisfaction, educational value, research value, and barriers to implementation.

Methods

Prospective or retrospective studies that assessed SR compared to NR in colorectal cancer surgery procedures were identified through a systematic search of Ovid MEDLINE, Embase (Ovid), CIHNAL Plus with Full Text (EBSCOhost), and Cochrane. One thousand two articles were screened, and eight studies met the inclusion criteria after full-text review of 17 papers.

Results

Analysis included 1797 operative reports (NR, 729; SR, 1068). Across studies reporting this outcome, the completeness of documentation was significantly higher in SR (P < 0.001). Reporting of secondary outcomes was limited, with a predominant focus on research value. Several studies demonstrated significantly reduced data extraction times when utilising SR. Surgeon satisfaction with SR was high, and these reports were seen as valuable tools for research and education. Barriers to implementation included integrating SR into existing electronic medical records (EMR) and surgeon concerns regarding increased administrative burden.

Conclusions

SR offer advantages in completeness, data extraction, and communication compared to NR. Surgeons perceive them as beneficial for research, quality improvement, and teaching. This review supports the necessity for development of user-friendly SR that seamlessly integrate into pre-existing EMRs, optimising patient care and enhancing the quality of CRC surgical documentation.
Real-world experience with filgotinib for rheumatoid arthritis in Germany
Authors: Schultz Olaf , Fiehn Christoph , Kneitz Christian , Picker Nils , Kromer Daniel , Zignani Monia , De Leonardis Francesco , Orzechowski Hans-Dieter , Gurrath Margot , Krüger Klaus
Published: May 2024

Background

Real-world data for filgotinib, a Janus kinase (JAK)1 inhibitor, are limited in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Objectives

To explore real-world filgotinib use in patients with RA in Germany.

Materials and methods

This retrospective chart review included patients aged ≥ 18 years with confirmed moderate to severe RA who initiated filgotinib before December 1, 2021, with ≥ 6 months of medical records available prior to filgotinib initiation or after initial diagnosis. Patient characteristics, prior treatments, reasons for initiating/discontinuing filgotinib, disease activity, dose adjustments and concomitant treatments were recorded.

Results

In total, 301 patients from 20 German rheumatology outpatient units were included. One-third were aged ≥ 65 years and almost half had ≥ 1 cardiovascular (CV) risk factor. Most patients initiated filgotinib as monotherapy (83.7%; 12.7% of whom with glucocorticoids) and at the 200 mg dose (84.7%); higher proportions of those initiating the 100 versus 200 mg dose were aged ≥ 65 years and had renal impairment or ≥ 1 CV risk factor. Oral administration (78.4%), fast onset of action (66.8%) and administration as monotherapy (65.4%) were the most common reasons for initiating filgotinib. At 12 months, 41 (18.4%) patients had discontinued filgotinib, most commonly due to lack of effectiveness. After 6‑months of follow-up, 36.8% of patients had achieved Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI) remission and 45.6% had achieved CDAI low disease activity.

Conclusions

In clinical practice in Germany, reasons for initiating filgotinib in patients with RA were related to dosing flexibility and general JAK inhibitor attributes. Filgotinib was used predominantly as monotherapy and was effective and generally well tolerated; however, longer-term data in larger, prospective cohorts are needed.
Management of multiple sclerosis in older adults: review of current evidence and future perspectives
Authors: DiMauro Kimberly A. , Swetlik Carol , Cohen Jeffrey A.
Published: May 2024

Importance

The prevalence of multiple sclerosis (MS) and aging MS patients is increasing worldwide. There is a need to better understand this MS sub-population, which historically is underrepresented in the literature. This narrative review examines the evolving demographics, disease course, and treatments for older adults with MS (OAMS) to address current knowledge gaps and highlight areas critical for future research.

Observations

OAMS populations require special consideration by clinicians. Older individuals have different care needs than individuals with adult onset MS who are mid-life or younger. Comorbidities, an aging immune system, increasing neurodegeneration, decreasing neurologic reserve, changing benefit/risk relationship for disease modifying therapies (DMTs), and wellness require special attention to provide holistic comprehensive care. Active areas of research include potential cessation of DMTs and novel disease targets.

Conclusions and relevance

This review highlights both the current knowledge and information gaps in the literature that are critical to understanding and properly managing OAMS. The aims are to inform MS clinicians in their current practice, as well as inspire future studies which are critical to providing quality and evidence-based care for OAMS.
The effects of static and dynamic stretching on deep fascia stiffness: a randomized, controlled cross-over study
Authors: Warneke Konstantin , Rabitsch Thomas , Dobert Patrik , Wilke Jan
Published: May 2024

Aim

Previous stretching studies mostly investigated effects on the skeletal muscle but comprehensive explorations regarding the role of the connective tissue are scarce. Since the deep fascia has been demonstrated to be sensitive to mechanical tension, it was hypothesized that the fascia would also respond to stretching, contributing to enhanced range of motion (ROM).

Methods

Forty (40) recreationally active participants (male: n = 25, female: n = 15) were included in the randomized controlled cross-over trial and allocated to different groups performing 5 min static (STAT) or dynamic (DYN) plantar flexor stretching or control condition (CC) in a random order. Pre- and immediately post-intervention, muscle and fascia stiffness, as well as muscle and fascia thickness were measured using high-resolution ultrasound and strain elastography. ROM was assessed in the ankle joint via the knee to wall test (KtW) and goniometer.

Results

STAT reduced both, muscle and fascia stiffness (d = 0.78 and 0.42, p < 0.001, respectively), while DYN did not reduce stiffness compared to the control condition (p = 0.11–0.41). While both conditions showed significant increases in the KtW (d = 0.43–0.46, p = 0.02–0.04), no significant differences to the CC were observed for the isolated ROM testing (p = 0.09 and 0.77). There was a small correlation between fascia stiffness decreases and ROM increases (r = − 0.25, p = 0.006) but no association was found between muscle stiffness decreases and ROM increases (p = 0.13–0.40).

Conclusion

Our study is the first to reveal stretch-induced changes in fascia stiffness. Changes of fascia`s but not muscle`s mechanical properties may contribute to increased ROM following stretching.
Clinical characteristics and outcomes of acute liver failure in neonates: a retrospective cohort in China
Authors: Xu Suhua , Zhang Peng , Ge Mengmeng , Shan Yuanyuan , Cheng Guoqiang
Published: May 2024

Neonatal acute liver failure (NALF), as a rare disease with high mortality, has limited relevant literature reports in China. We attempted to analyze a NALF cohort to improve the prognosis of this disease. We included all patients diagnosed with NALF at our institution between 2016 and 2021 and retrospectively reviewed their electronic records. NALF was defined as an INR ≥ 2.0 due to liver disease 28 days after birth. Comparisons were made according to etiology and outcome. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate survival. Fifty-eight patients were included in this study. Etiologies included hypoxic/ischemic injury (29.3%), infection (27.6%), gestational alloimmune liver disease with neonatal hemochromatosis (GALD-NH) (10.3%), inherited metabolic diseases (5.2%), hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (1.7%), other etiologies (12.1%), and unidentified causes (13.8%). Enteroviruses constituted 87.5% of the viral infections, whereas herpes simplex virus accounted for no infections. The median INR was significantly lower in the infection group than in the GALD-NH group (P < 0.05 for multiple comparisons). At the last follow-up, none of the patients had undergone liver transplantation, and the overall mortality rate was 50%. Liver function completely recovered in 31% of the patients, all of whom survived. The overall median survival time was 48 days; 26 days for hypoxic/ischemic injury and 43 days for GALD-NH. The incidence of cholestasis was significantly greater among surviving patients (P = 0.018).

   Conclusion: Hypoxic/ischemic injury and infection are the predominant etiologies of NALF in China. The overall prognosis of NALF is poor, but its short-term prognosis is determined by the etiology.

What is Known:• Neonatal acute liver failure (NALF) is a rare disorder with limited cohort studies, especially in China.• Gestational alloimmune liver disease, viral infections (especially herpes simplex virus), metabolic diseases and ischemic insults are common etiologies of NALF, which are significantly different from other populations.• There are no reliable biochemical markers to predict the outcome of NALF.

What is New:• In this first report on a Chinese NALF cohort, we demonstrate that hypoxic/ischemic injury and infection (excluding herpes simplex virus) are the predominant etiologies of NALF.• The overall prognosis of NALF is poor, and its etiology determines the short-term outcome.
Effective bridging strategies prior to infusion with tisagenlecleucel results in high response rates and long-term remission in relapsed/refractory large B-cell lymphoma: findings from a German monocentric study
Authors: Eigendorff Farina , Filimonova Irina , Scholl Sebastian , Sayer-Klink Anne , Rummler Silke , Kunert Christa , Pietschmann Klaus , Wittig Andrea , Hochhaus Andreas , Schnetzke Ulf
Published: May 2024

Background

Incorporating chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy into relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphoma (rr LBCL) treatment algorithms has yielded remarkable response rates and durable remissions, yet a substantial portion of patients experience progression or relapse. Variations in outcomes across treatment centers may be attributed to different bridging strategies and remission statuses preceding CAR-T cell therapy.

Patients

Twenty-nine consecutive adult patients receiving tisagenlecleucel (tisa-cel) for rr LBCL from December 2019 to February 2023 at Jena University Hospital were analyzed.

Results

The median age was 63, with a median of 3 prior treatments. Twenty patients (69%) were refractory to any systemic therapy before CAR-T cell treatment. Following leukapheresis, 25 patients (86%) received bridging therapy with the majority undergoing chemotherapy (52%) or combined modality therapy (32%). Radiotherapy (RT) was part of the bridging strategy in 44%, with moderately hypofractionated involved site RT (30.0 Gy/2.5 Gy) being applied most frequently (64%). Post-CAR-T infusion, the objective response rate at 30 days was 83%, with 55% achieving complete response. Twelve-month progression-free (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were 60% and 74%, respectively, with a median follow up of 11.1 months for PFS and 17.9 months for OS. Factors significantly associated with PFS were chemotherapy sensitivity pre-leukapheresis and response to bridging.

Conclusion

The study underscores the importance of minimal tumor burden at CAR-T initiation, emphasizing the need for suitable bridging regimens. The findings advocate for clinical trials and further real-world analyses to optimize CAR-T cell therapy outcomes by identifying the most effective bridging strategies.
The natural history and genotype–phenotype correlations of TMPRSS3 hearing loss: an international, multi-center, cohort analysis
Authors: Colbert Brett M. , Lanting Cris , Smeal Molly , Blanton Susan , Dykxhoorn Derek M. , Tang Pei-Ciao , Getchell Richard L. , Velde Hedwig , Fehrmann Mirthe , Thorpe Ryan , Chapagain Prem , Elkhaligy Heidy , Kremer Hannie , Yntema Helger , Haer-Wigman Lonneke , Redfield Shelby , Sun Tieqi , Bruijn Saskia , Plomp Astrid , Goderie Thadé , van de Kamp Jiddeke , Free Rolien H. , Wassink-Ruiter Jolien Klein , Widdershoven Josine , Vanhoutte Els , Rotteveel Liselotte , Kriek Marjolein , van Dooren Marieke , Hoefsloot Lies , de Gier Heriette H. W. ,   DOOFNL Consortium, van Dooren M. F. , Kant S. G. , de Gier H. H. W. , Hoefsloot E. H. , van der Schroeff M. P. , Rotteveel L. J. C. , Ropers F. G. , Kriek M. , Aten E. , Widdershoven J. C. C. , Hof J. R. , Hellingman K. , Vernimmen V. , Kremer H. , Pennings R. J. E. , Feenstra I. , Lanting C. P. , Yntema H. G. , Cals F. L. J. , Haer-Wigman L. , Free R. H. , Wassink-Ruiter J. S. Klein , Smit A. L. , van den Boogaard M. J. , Lachmeier A. M. A. , Smits J. J. , Ebbens F. A. , Maas S. M. , Plomp A. , Goderie T. P. M. , Merkus P. , van de Kamp J. , Schaefer Amanda , Kolbe Diana , Azaiez Hela , Rabie Grace , Aburayyan Armal , Kawas Mariana , Kanaan Moien , Holder Jourdan , Usami Shin-ichi , Chen Zhengyi , Dai Pu , Holt Jeffrey , Nelson Rick , Choi Byung Yoon , Shearer Eliot , Smith Richard J. H. , Pennings Ronald , Liu Xue Zhong
Published: May 2024

TMPRSS3-related hearing loss presents challenges in correlating genotypic variants with clinical phenotypes due to the small sample sizes of previous studies. We conducted a cross-sectional genomics study coupled with retrospective clinical phenotype analysis on 127 individuals. These individuals were from 16 academic medical centers across 6 countries. Key findings revealed 47 unique TMPRSS3 variants with significant differences in hearing thresholds between those with missense variants versus those with loss-of-function genotypes. The hearing loss progression rate for the DFNB8 subtype was 0.3 dB/year. Post-cochlear implantation, an average word recognition score of 76% was observed. Of the 51 individuals with two missense variants, 10 had DFNB10 with profound hearing loss. These 10 all had at least one of 4 TMPRSS3 variants predicted by computational modeling to be damaging to TMPRSS3 structure and function. To our knowledge, this is the largest study of TMPRSS3 genotype–phenotype correlations. We find significant differences in hearing thresholds, hearing loss progression, and age of presentation, by TMPRSS3 genotype and protein domain affected. Most individuals with TMPRSS3 variants perform well on speech recognition tests after cochlear implant, however increased age at implant is associated with worse outcomes. These findings provide insight for genetic counseling and the on-going design of novel therapeutic approaches.
Finitary Affine Oriented Matroids
Authors: Delucchi Emanuele , Knauer Kolja
Published: May 2024

We initiate the axiomatic study of affine oriented matroids (AOMs) on arbitrary ground sets, obtaining fundamental notions such as minors, reorientations and a natural embedding into the frame work of Complexes of Oriented Matroids. The restriction to the finitary case (FAOMs) allows us to study tope graphs and covector posets, as well as to view FAOMs as oriented finitary semimatroids. We show shellability of FAOMs and single out the FAOMs that are affinely homeomorphic to $$\mathbb {R}^n$$

R

n

. Finally, we study group actions on AOMs, whose quotients in the case of FAOMs are a stepping stone towards a general theory of affine and toric pseudoarrangements. Our results include applications of the multiplicity Tutte polynomial of group actions of semimatroids, generalizing enumerative properties of toric arrangements to a combinatorially defined class of arrangements of submanifolds. This answers partially a question by Ehrenborg and Readdy.
The experience of surgical cancer patients during the COVID-19 pandemic at a large cancer centre in London
Authors: Russell Beth , Hadi Hajer , Moss Charlotte L. , Green Saran , Haire Anna , Wylie Harriet , Handford Jasmine , Monroy-Iglesias Maria , Dickinson Harvey , Haire Kate , Van Hemelrijck Mieke
Published: May 2024

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has had an enormous impact on the experiences of patients across all health disciplines, especially those of cancer patients. The study aimed to understand the experiences of cancer patients who underwent surgery during the first two waves of the pandemic at Guy’s Cancer Centre, which is a large tertiary cancer centre in London.

Methods

A mixed-methods approach was adopted for this study. Firstly, a survey was co-designed by the research team and a patient study group. Patients who underwent surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic were invited to take part in this survey. Results were analysed descriptively. Three discussion groups were then conducted to focus on the main themes from the survey findings: communication, COVID-19 risk management and overall experience. These discussion groups were transcribed verbatim and underwent a thematic analysis using the NVivo software package.

Results

Out of 1657 patients invited, a total of 250 (15%) participants took part in the survey with a mean age of 66 (SD 12.8) and 52% females. The sample was representative of a wide range of tumour sites and was reflective of those invited to take part. Overall, the experience of the cancer patients was positive. They felt that the safety protocols implemented at the hospital were effective. Communication was considered key, and patients were receptive to a change in the mode of communication from in-person to virtual.

Conclusions

Despite the immense challenges faced by our Cancer Centre, patients undergoing surgery during the first two waves of the COVID-19 pandemic had a generally positive experience with minimal disruptions to their planned surgery and ongoing care. Together with the COVID-19 safety precautions, effective communication between the clinical teams and the patients helped the overall patient experience during their surgical treatment.
Primary arthrodesis for diabetic ankle fractures using a modified retrograde femoral intramedullary locking nail combined with lateral plating, surgical technique, and early results of a pilot study
Authors: Fadle Amr A. , El-Adly Wael , Fekry Momen Ayman , Osman Ahmed E. , Khalifa Ahmed A.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

We aimed to report the early results of performing acute ankle arthrodesis using a modified retrograde femoral intramedullary locking IMN concomitant with plating at the same setting for managing diabetic patients' acute ankle fractures.

Methods

We prospectively included patients who presented acutely with ankle fractures, where hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) on admission was > 7%, and the Adelaide Fracture in the Diabetic Ankle (AFDA) algorithm score was 5 or above. All patients were treated by acute ankle arthrodesis using a modified retrograde femoral IMN combined with lateral plating. Functional assessment was reported according to a modified American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle hindfoot scale (AOFAS), and complications were documented.

Results

Six patients had an average age of 55.7 years (37–65). The average HbA1C on admission was 7.9 (7.3–9), and the average AFDA score was 7.3 (6–8). The average operative time was 79.2 min (70–90). All patients, except for one, achieved union at the arthrodesis site after an average of 10.3 weeks (8–14). After an average last follow-up of 9 months (6–12), the average modified AOFAS was 73.2 (82 to 62); four patients had an excellent score and one good. Complications developed in two, one deep infection after 2 weeks treated by metal removal and Ilizarov, and the other patient developed a stress fracture at the tibial end of the nail, which was treated by open reduction and internal fixation using a plate and screws.

Conclusion

Using a modified femoral IMN combined with lateral plating is a promising technique to achieve ankle arthrodesis in diabetic patients with acute ankle fractures with acceptable outcomes; however, further studies with larger numbers are needed.

Level of evidence: IV
Periodontal grading—estimation of responsiveness to therapy and progression of disease
Authors: Bumm Caspar Victor , Ern Christina , Folwaczny Julia , Wölfle Uta Christine , Heck Katrin , Werner Nils , Folwaczny Matthias
Published: May 2024

Objective

To investigate the capability of periodontal grading to estimate the progression of periodontal disease and the responsiveness to therapy.

Materials and methods

Eighty-four patients who underwent non-surgical therapy (NST) were included. Direct and indirect evidence of progression were determined according to the current classification. Responsiveness to therapy was examined using mean pocket probing depths reduction (PPDRed), reduction of bleeding on probing (BOPRed), and the rate of pocket closure (%PC) after six months.

Results

Statistical analysis revealed no agreement between direct and indirect evidence in grading periodontitis (κ = 0.070). The actual rate of progression as determined by longitudinal data was underestimated in 13% (n = 11), overestimated in 51% (n = 43) and correctly estimated in 30% (n = 36) by indirect evidence. No significant differences in responsiveness to therapy were observed in patients graded according to direct evidence. Using indirect evidence, patients assigned grade C showed more PPDRed but less BOPRed and lower %PC compared to grade B.

Conclusion

The present data indicate that indirect evidence may lead to inaccuracies compared to direct evidence regarding the estimation of periodontal progression. However, indirect evidence seems to be more suitable in the estimation of responsiveness to therapy than direct evidence, helping to identify cases that are more likely to require additional therapies such as re-instrumentation or periodontal surgery.

Clinical relevance

Regarding the estimation of disease progression and responsiveness to periodontal therapy, accuracy and reliability of both direct and indirect evidence are limited when grading periodontitis.
PublicVR: a virtual reality exposure therapy intervention for adults with speech anxiety
Authors: Spyridonis Fotios , Daylamani-Zad Damon , Nightingale James
Published: May 2024

Speech anxiety, or Glossophobia, currently affects approximately 75% of the population with potentially severe negative effects on those with this condition. There are several treatments currently available with research showing that the use of Virtual Reality (VR) as a non-pharmacologic treatment can have positive effects on individuals suffering from such social phobias. However, there is a significant lack of treatments currently available for speech anxiety, even though such a large number of the population are affected by it. In this paper, we aim to contribute to efforts to improve the effects of speech anxiety through a VR intervention. Our VR solution was designed following the Exposure Therapy approach for treating social anxiety disorders. The evaluation of this work was twofold: A. to assess the ability of our solution to positively change participants’ perception of factors related to non-verbal communication contributing to anxiety toward public speaking, and B. to determine whether it is able to induce a sense of presence. We carried out an empirical evaluation study that measured participants’ self-reported anxiety level towards public speaking using the Personal Report of Public Speaking Anxiety and their perceived sense of presence using the iGroup Presence Questionnaire. Our results demonstrate the potential of VR Exposure Therapy solutions to assist towards positively changing perception of factors related to non-verbal communication skills that contribute to increasing public speaking anxiety for participants suffering from self-reported speech anxiety symptoms. Our findings are of wider importance as they contribute to ongoing efforts to improve social anxiety-related phobias.
Improving waste management strategies in the food sector: case studies from Spain, Tunisia and Hong Kong
Authors: Garcia-Garcia Guillermo , Parra-López Carlos , Siddiqui Muhammad Ahmar , Lin Carol Sze Ki , Maalej Hana , Njeh Fatma , Galve Emilio , Ghrab Soufiène , Belhassen Soufiène , Hassoun Abdo , Rojas-Serrano Fátima , Rodríguez-Pleguezuelo Carmen Rocío , Sayadi Samir
Published: May 2024

Appropriate waste generation and management is becoming increasingly important in making food systems more sustainable. It is, therefore, imperative to both reduce waste generation and sustainably manage the waste that cannot be reduced. However, this is challenging due to the heterogeneity of waste materials, the high economic costs of optimizing food systems and the low awareness of the issue in some societies. This article analyzes three case studies that explore improvements in waste management in the food sector in Europe, Africa and Asia. The case studies focus on a horticultural cooperative in Spain, a seafood company in Tunisia and municipal waste management in Hong Kong, highlighting different challenges and approaches. Key factors for horticultural waste management include a consistent regulatory framework, appropriate management systems and waste traceability. The article also highlights the potential for valorisation of waste products, such as blue crab by-products, which can be used to obtain polysaccharides, proteins, lipids, antioxidants, flavonoids, vitamins and minerals. A shift from landfill to anaerobic digestion is also recommended for a more sustainable waste management. By identifying and quantifying waste streams and problematic waste types, alternative solutions can be developed to improve the sustainability of the global food supply chain.
Observed seismic performance of buildings and bridges during a major earthquake followed by one other major earthquake in the close vicinity of the first one
Authors: Caner Alp , Cinar Melike , Ates Ahmet Derya
Published: May 2024

In the recent 2023 major earthquake triggering one other large earthquake in Anatolia, the poor structural performance of buildings and the satisfactory performance of bridges remained relatively consistent compared to past observed earthquake experiences. Despite numerous building collapses, it is worth noting that no bridges collapsed during the event. Several engineering factors for poor building performance have been identified based on field building inspections in the recent and past earthquakes, such as the misuse of building design software without proper engineering judgment, the utilization of poor-quality construction materials, underestimation of earthquake forces, construction on inadequate soil conditions, design mistakes, and incorrect implementation of high ductility reinforcement details. In the aftermath of the earthquake, it was found that only a small percentage of bridges (1%) were closed, and approximately 50% of them were reopened to traffic within 24 h. Remarkably, no bridge collapses including the modern or old bridges were reported in the affected area. The focus of this paper is to identify the differences in the design philosophy between buildings and bridges and to understand the reasons behind the bridges’ resilience during these rare earthquakes. The study involves analyzing past structural performances of buildings and bridges under different earthquake conditions and design requirements. Analytical results from a survived 90-year-old reinforced concrete arch railroad bridge, highlighting its resilience and design characteristics are also presented.
Seismic hazard zonation map and definition of seismic actions for Greece in the context of the ongoing revision of EC8
Authors: Pitilakis Kyriazis , Riga Evi , Apostolaki Stefania , Danciu Laurentiu
Published: May 2024

The Greek National Annex for current Eurocode 8 has adopted the seismic hazard zonation map published in 2003 as part of the modifications to the Greek Seismic Code EAK 2000 (EAK 2003). This map, which followed the catastrophic earthquakes that hit the country between 1978 and 2001, includes three seismic hazard zones with peak ground acceleration (PGA) ranging between 0.16 and 0.36 g. In this paper, following the significant progress that has been made worldwide in the last two decades towards the improvement of the definition of seismic actions and the seismic hazard maps using fully probabilistic models, we make a complete proposal for the Greek National Annex of the ongoing revision of Eurocode 8, which includes a new seismic hazard zonation map for Greece, as well as a novel site categorization scheme and related site amplification factors. To this end, we use the results of the European Seismic Hazard Model, ESHM20, as reported by Danciu et al. (The 2020 update of the European Seismic Hazard Model: Model Overview, 2021) which will be adopted as informative reference for the seismic hazard at European level in the forthcoming revision of Eurocode 8 (CEN/EC8). The herein proposed ground shaking zonation for rock conditions includes five zones with PGA values ranging between 0.13 and 0.37 g. For each zone, two newly proposed ground motion parameters, i.e., Sα,475 and Sβ,475, are provided, which are the two parameters used for anchoring the elastic response spectrum as defined in CEN/EC8, along with all the other necessary parameters for the definition of the elastic response spectrum, including site amplification. The proposal for the new seismic zonation is supported by a preliminary investigation of the impact of its adoption on the seismic design of new structures and on the seismic risk of the current building stock in Greece, to help gain a better insight on how important the differences imposed by the new zonation might be for the end-users and the administration.
Does intraspecific variation in Trissolcus japonicus affect its response to non-target hosts?
Authors: Häner Nina , Fenijn Fleur , Haye Tim
Published: May 2024

Host specificity is a key criterion for the implementation of any biological control program. In parasitoid wasps, host specificity is mediated by their response to chemical cues directly and indirectly associated with their hosts during foraging. Although intraspecific variation in foraging behaviour is documented, it is rarely integrated into risk assessment studies of potential biological control agents, as is the case for Trissolcus japonicus (Ashmead) (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae), an Asian egg parasitoid and biological control agent of the invasive Halyomorpha halys (Stål) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae). In the present study, we compared the behavioural response of T. japonicus females of an adventive line present in Switzerland and an Asian line (Beijing USDA), recently mass released in Italy, to cues of its target host H. halys and non-target host Pentatoma rufipes (L.) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae). We observed minimal differences in host acceptance, exploitation and suitability in no-choice tests. In contrast, the behavioural response to host contact kairomones left on leaf substrates significantly differed between the two lines. While both lines preferred chemical footprints of H. halys in comparison to P. rufipes, females of the Beijing USDA line responded more strongly to host kairomones. The observed intraspecific variation in behavioural traits highlights the relevance of considering genetically distinct parasitoid lines and their host foraging behaviour in biological risk assessment studies. However, the implications of intraspecific variation in parasitoid foraging behaviour for biological control of a pest and non-target effects in the field remain challenging to predict.
Circulating microRNAs and therapy-associated cardiac events in HER2-positive breast cancer patients: an exploratory analysis from NeoALTTO
Authors: Pizzamiglio S. , Ciniselli C. M. , de Azambuja E. , Agbor-tarh D. , Moreno-Aspitia A. , Suter T. M. , Trama A. , De Santis M. C. , De Cecco L. , Iorio M. V. , Silvestri M. , Pruneri G. , Verderio P. , Di Cosimo S.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The relevance of cardiotoxicity in the context of HER2-positive breast cancer is likely to increase with increasing patient treatment exposure, number of treatment lines, and prolonged survival. Circulating biomarkers to early identify patients at risk of cardiotoxicity could allow personalized treatment and follow-up measures. The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between circulating microRNAs and adverse cardiac events in HER2-positive breast cancer patients.

Methods

We based our work on plasma samples from NeoALTTO trial obtained at baseline, after 2 weeks of anti-HER2 therapy, and immediately before surgery. Eleven patients experienced either a symptomatic or asymptomatic cardiac event. Circulating microRNAs were profiled in all patients presenting a cardiac event (case) and in an equal number of matched patients free of reported cardiac events (controls) using microRNA-Ready-to-Use PCR (Human panel I + II). Sensitivity analyses were performed by increasing the number of controls to 1:2 and 1:3. Normalized microRNA expression levels were compared between cases and controls using the non-parametric Kruskal–Wallis test.

Results

Eight circulating microRNAs resulted differentially expressed after 2 weeks of anti-HER2 therapy between patients experiencing or not a cardiac event. Specifically, the expression of miR-125b-5p, miR-409-3p, miR-15a-5p, miR-423-5p, miR-148a-3p, miR-99a-5p, and miR-320b increased in plasma of cases as compared to controls, while the expression of miR-642a-5p decreases. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that all these microRNAs were involved in cardiomyocyte adrenergic signaling pathway.

Conclusion

This study provides proof of concept that circulating microRNAs tested soon after treatment start could serve as biomarkers of cardiotoxicity in a very early stage in breast cancer patients receiving anti-HER2 therapy.
Is Radical Doubt Morally Wrong?
Authors: Ranalli Chris
Published: May 2024

Is radical skepticism ethically problematic? This paper argues that it is. Radical skepticism’s strong regulation of our doxastic economy results in us having to forego doxastic commitments that we owe to others. Whatever skepticism’s epistemic defects, it is ethically defective. In turn, I defend Moralism, the view that the kind of extreme doubt characteristic of radical skepticism is a serious moral and eudaimonic weakness of radical skeptical epistemology. Whether this means that skepticism is false or incorrect, however, is a further claim that Moralists may or may not accept. I distinguish between an encroachment and abrogation version of the view, and show how each one bears on radical skepticism. In either case, Moralism makes our beliefs less vulnerable to radical revision. The paper concludes with some exploratory reflections on whether the argument can be extended to show that radical skepticism is politically problematic, even risking injustice.
Understanding the Impact of Fuel on Surfactant Microstructure of Firefighting Foam
Authors: Islam Rezawana , Lattimer Brian Y.
Published: May 2024

Aqueous film-forming foam is being phased out due to the environmental impacts of fluorinated surfactants contained in the firefighting foams. To develop an environmentally friendly firefighting foam, it is important to understand the factors controlling the firefighting performance of surfactants. Fuel transport through foam has been considered as a dominant mechanism for foam collapse. Therefore, the impact of fuels (heptane, octane and trimethylbenzene (TMB)) on surfactant microstructure was studied for three different types of surfactants (Capstone, Glucopon, and siloxane) that have applications in firefighting foam. Multiple techniques were used to identify the microstructure and interfacial properties of surfactants with and without exposure to liquid fuel. The ignition time of fuel vapor through foam and solubility of fuel through liquid surfactant solution were measured as well. This work shows fuel solubility has an impact on the surfactant microstructure and interfacial properties. In addition, fuel solubility and vapor pressure affect the ignition time of fuel vapors.
Spatial and temporal variation of Nuphar lutea pigment content in small boreal lakes: effect of water colour and phosphorus concentration
Authors: Rajala Salla , Estlander Satu , Nurminen Leena , Horppila Jukka
Published: May 2024

The spatial and temporal variation of Nuphar lutea chlorophyll content was studied in 12 small lakes in Finland to clarify the bioindicator potential of N. lutea chlorophyll content for monitoring lake brownification. Significant in-lake variation in water colour and total phosphorus concentration was observed in a few study lakes. At highest, the in-lake variation for water colour was 13% and for total phosphorus concentration 27%. However, the in-lake variation in water quality did not coincide with significant in-lake variation of N. lutea chlorophyll content. The total chlorophyll concentration (chlorophyll a + b) varied in a few lakes, but the chlorophyll a and b ratio (chlorophyll a:b) did not change within the lakes. The chlorophyll a:b, however, varied between lakes and decreased significantly with increasing water colour and total phosphorus concentration in Nuphar lutea individuals collected near the lake outflow. The chlorophyll content of N. lutea did not show significant temporal variation during the one-week sampling period despite variable weather conditions. Chlorophyll a:b of N. lutea seems to be a possible bioindicator for monitoring brownification, as it can differentiate lakes from each other based on a small difference in water colour but does not react to short-term in-lake variations in the water quality.
Government consumption in the DINA framework: allocation methods and consequences for post-tax income inequality
Authors: Riedel Lukas , Stichnoth Holger
Published: May 2024

About half of government expenditure in the United States takes the form of government consumption (e.g., education, defense, infrastructure). In many studies of post-tax inequality based on the Dina framework (including the influential study by Piketty et al. (Q J Econ 133(2):553–609, 2018), government consumption is allocated either proportionally to post-tax disposable income or on a per-capita basis, and the level of inequality is fairly sensitive to this choice. This paper provides direct evidence on how public education spending (a substantial part of government consumption) is actually distributed. An allocation proportional to post-tax disposable income is clearly rejected, while a lump-sum allocation is found to provide a good approximation.
Effects of Changes in Frequency of Going Out during the COVID-19 Pandemic on ikigai (Sense of Purpose in Life) and Mental Health in Middle-Aged and Older Adults in Japan
Authors: Watanabe Takeshi , Tanabe Kai , Tsukao Akiko , Kuno Shinya
Published: May 2024

To clarify whether changes in frequency of going out due to the COVID-19 pandemic affect ikigai (sense of purpose in life) and mental health in Japanese middle-aged and older adults. In a questionnaire survey mailed to 16,866 adults aged > 40 years in Japan in September 2020, 7,973 responses were received (response rate, 47.3%) in October 2020. Following exclusions, data from 6,978 individuals (50.6% female, mean age 67.8 ± 12.2 years) were available for analysis. Respondents were categorized based on changes in frequency of going out, reflecting changes in social and/or physical activity, during the pandemic compared with before it: the previously active group went out often before but less often during the pandemic; the remained active group continued going out often; and the inactive group continued not going out often. Whether these changes affected the respondents’ ikigai and mental health was investigated. The previously active group had a significantly higher proportion of individuals with decreased ikigai during the pandemic than the other groups. Mental health score decreased in all groups during the pandemic, but more so in the previously active group (-3.21), followed by the inactive and then the remained active groups (-1.45 and -1.28, respectively). Previously active individuals showed the greatest decline in ikigai and mental health among the three groups. These findings suggest that continuing to engage in appropriate physical and social activities, including going out, while following appropriate infection control measures, even under restrictions, can help people maintain ikigai and mental health.
Money Talks: Testing a Series of Financial Literacy Modules to Encourage Financial Conversations in Middle School Families
Authors: Alvarez Padilla Yesenia , Loibl Cäzilia , Boone Barbara
Published: May 2024

The financial conversations parents/caregivers have with their children play a pivotal role in their financial development. Yet, little is known about strategies or interventions to promote these financial conversations. Focusing on parents/caregivers of middle school students in a Midwestern state, this exploratory study investigated the experiences of parents/caregivers who engage in financial conversations with their middle schoolers. We developed and tested “Money Talks”, an online series of financial literacy modules to enhance parent–child financial conversations. Using qualitative interview data of 10 parents/caregivers as well as baseline, module, and follow-up survey data of up to 318 parents/caregivers, we examined the predictors of financial conversations and the impact of the modules on increasing both frequency and parents’ confidence for engaging in financial conversations. Five key financial conversation topics emerged from parent/caregiver interviews including spending, banking, saving/investing, credit/debt, and financial decision-making. In surveys, confidence about financial topics emerged as the most important predictor of financial conversations. The follow-up survey results point to a greater amount of time spent on financial conversations rather than more frequent conversations and demonstrate that the modules were most effective in “Starting a conversation” with their middle schooler. Future research should experiment with different online and offline approaches for engaging parents/caregivers in financial conversations with their children and promoting other financial socialization methods such as financial modeling and experiential learning.