bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Symmetry restoration and uniformly accelerated observers in Minkowski spacetime
Authors: Salluce Domenico Giuseppe , Pasini Marco , Flachi Antonino , Pittelli Antonio , Ansoldi Stefano
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We reassess the problem of symmetry restoration induced by observers’ acceleration within the context of interacting quantum field theories in Minkowski spacetime. We argue that the imposition of a frame-independent renormalization condition negates any observed symmetry restoration by a Rindler observer. Technically, we compute the one-loop effective potential of a λφ4 theory for an accelerated observer, employing a distinct methodology from prior investigations. Emphasizing the intricacies of the model’s renormalization, the analysis offers novel insights into the interplay between acceleration and spontaneous symmetry breaking in quantum field theory.
Inscribing geodesic circles on the face of the superstratum
Authors: Guo Bin , Hampton Shaun D. , Warner Nicholas P.
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We use families of circular null geodesics as probes of a family of microstate geometries, known as (1, 0, n) superstrata. These geometries carry a left-moving momentum wave and the behavior of some of the geodesic probes is very sensitive to this background wave. The left-moving geodesics behave like BPS particles and so can be placed in circular orbits anywhere in the geometry and actually “float” at fixed radius and angle in the three-dimensional “capped BTZ” geometry. The right-moving geodesics behave like non-BPS particles. We show that they provide a simple geometric characterization of the black-hole bound: when the momentum charge of the geometry is below this bound, such geodesics can be placed anywhere, but exceeding the bound, even by a small amount, means these geodesics are restricted to the deep interior of the geometry. We also show that for left-moving string probes, the tidal forces remain comparable with those of global AdS3. Nevertheless, for some of these probes, the “bumps” in the geometry induce an oscillatory mass term and we discuss how this can lead to chaotic scrambling of the state of the string.
Fractional particle and sigma model
Authors: Vancea Ion V.
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We introduce a classical fractional particle model in ℝn, extending the Newtonian particle concept with the incorporation of the fractional Laplacian. A comprehensive discussion on kinetic properties, including linear momentum and kinetic energy, is provided. We further derive the equations of motion and discuss the symmetries of the system. The Green’s function method is employed to solve the equations of motion in a general case. We illustrate the theory with three important examples: the free fractional particle, the fractional harmonic oscillator, and the charged fractional particle that interacts locally with the electromagnetic field. We use the results of the extension problem by Caffarelli and Silvestre, to construct the associated classical local sigma model for the fractional particle. The sigma model is then quantized using the canonical quantization method, and we compute the vacuum energy at the boundary.
Why artificial intelligence needs sociology of knowledge: parts I and II
Authors: Collins Harry
Published: May 2024

Recent developments in artificial intelligence based on neural nets—deep learning and large language models which together I refer to as NEWAI—have resulted in startling improvements in language handling and the potential to keep up with changing human knowledge by learning from the internet. Nevertheless, examples such as ChatGPT, which is a ‘large language model’, have proved to have no moral compass: they answer queries with fabrications with the same fluency as they provide facts. I try to explain why this is, basing the argument on the sociology of knowledge, particularly social studies of science, notably ‘studies of expertise and experience’ and the ‘fractal model’ of society. Learning from the internet is not the same as socialisation: NEWAI has no primary socialisation such as provides the foundations of human moral understanding. Instead, large language models are retrospectively socialised by human intervention in an attempt to align them with societally accepted ethics. Perhaps, as technology advances, large language models could come to understand speech and recognise objects sufficiently well to acquire the equivalent of primary socialisation. In the meantime, we must be vigilant about who is socialising them and be aware of the danger of their socialising us to align with them rather than vice-versa, an eventuality that would lead to the further erosion of the distinction between the true and the false giving further support to populism and fascism.
How does artificial intelligence work in organisations? Algorithmic management, talent and dividuation processes
Authors: Martorell Joan Rovira , Tirado Francisco , Blasco José Luís , Gálvez Ana
Published: May 2024

This article analyses the forms of dividuation workers undergo when they are linked to technologies, such as algorithms or artificial intelligence. It examines functionalities and operations deployed by certain types of Talent Management software and apps—UKG, Tribepad, Afiniti, RetailNext and Textio. Specifically, it analyses how talented workers materialise in relation to the profiles and the statistical models generated by such artificial intelligence machines. It argues that these operate as a nooscope that allows the transindividual plane to be quantified through a process known as dividuation. Finally, by way of conclusion, the notion of the dividual is presented as the logic that characterises the human–machine relationship in the case of artificial intelligence and as the horizon of what Felix Guattari called “machinic capitalism”.
The extimate core of understanding: absolute metaphors, psychosis and large language models
Authors: Heimann Marc , Hübener Anne-Friederike
Published: May 2024

This paper delves into the striking parallels between the linguistic patterns of Large Language Models (LLMs) and the concepts of psychosis in Lacanian psychoanalysis. Lacanian theory, with its focus on the formal and logical underpinnings of psychosis, provides a compelling lens to juxtapose human cognition and AI mechanisms. LLMs, such as GPT-4, appear to replicate the intricate metaphorical and metonymical frameworks inherent in human language. Although grounded in mathematical logic and probabilistic analysis, the outputs of LLMs echo the nuanced linguistic associations found in metaphor and metonymy, suggesting a mirroring of human linguistic structures. A pivotal point in this discourse is the exploration of “absolute metaphors”—core gaps in reasoning discernible in both AI models and human thought processes and central to the Lacanian conceptualization of psychosis. Despite the traditional divide between AI research and continental philosophy, this analysis embarks on an innovative journey, utilizing Lacanian philosophy to unravel the logic of AI, using concepts established in the continental discourse on logic, rather than the analytical tradition.
Dynamic large strain formulation for nematic liquid crystal elastomers
Authors: Concas Francesca , Groß Michael
Published: May 2024

Liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) are a class of materials which exhibit an anisotropic behavior in their nematic state due to the main orientation of their rod-like molecules called mesogens. The reorientation of mesogens leads to the well-known actuation properties of LCEs, i.e. exceptionally large deformations as a consequence of particular external stimuli, such as temperature increase. Another key feature of nematic LCEs is the capability to undergo deformation by constant stresses while being stretched in a direction perpendicular to the orientation of mesogens. During this plateau stage, the mesogens rotate towards the stretching direction. Such characteristic is defined as semisoft elastic response of nematic LCEs. We aim at modeling the semisoft behavior in a dynamic finite element method based on a variational-based mixed finite element formulation. The reorientation process of the rigid mesogens relative to the continuum rotation is introduced by micropolar drilling degrees of freedom. Responsible for the above-mentioned characteristics is an appropriate free energy function. Starting from an isothermal free energy function based on the small strain theory, we aim to widen it into the framework of large strains by identifying tensor invariants. In this work, we analyze the isothermal influence of the tensor invariants on the mechanical response of the finite element formulation and show that its space-time discretization preserves mechanical balance laws in the discrete setting.
Two novel in vitro assays to screen chemicals for their capacity to inhibit thyroid hormone transmembrane transporter proteins OATP1C1 and OAT4
Authors: Wagenaars Fabian , Cenijn Peter , Chen Zhongli , Meima Marcel , Scholze Martin , Hamers Timo
Published: May 2024

Early brain development depends on adequate transport of thyroid hormones (THs) from the maternal circulation to the fetus. To reach the fetal brain, THs have to cross several physiological barriers, including the placenta, blood–brain-barrier and blood–cerebrospinal fluid-barrier. Transport across these barriers is facilitated by thyroid hormone transmembrane transporters (THTMTs). Some endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can interfere with the transport of THs by THTMTs. To screen chemicals for their capacity to disrupt THTMT facilitated TH transport, in vitro screening assays are required. In this study, we developed assays for two THTMTs, organic anion transporter polypeptide 1C1 (OATP1C1) and organic anion transporter 4 (OAT4), both known to play a role in the transport of THs across barriers. We used overexpressing cell models for both OATP1C1 and OAT4, which showed an increased uptake of radiolabeled T4 compared to control cell lines. Using these models, we screened various reference and environmental chemicals for their ability to inhibit T4 uptake by OATP1C1 and OAT4. Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) was identified as an OATP1C1 inhibitor, more potent than any of the reference chemicals tested. Additionally perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluoroctanic acid (PFOA), pentachlorophenol and quercetin were identified as OATP1C1 inhibitors in a similar range of potency to the reference chemicals tested. Bromosulfophthalein, TBBPA, PFOA and PFOS were identified as potent OAT4 inhibitors. These results demonstrate that EDCs commonly found in our environment can disrupt TH transport by THTMTs, and contribute to the identification of molecular mechanisms underlying TH system disruption chemicals.
Vincamine alleviates intrahepatic cholestasis in rats through modulation of NF-kB/PDGF/klf6/PPARγ and PI3K/Akt pathways
Authors: Alaaeldin Rania , Eisa Yusra A. , El-Rehany Mahmoud A. , Fathy Moustafa
Published: May 2024

The defect in the hepatobiliary transport system results in an impairment of bile flow, leading to accumulation of toxic compounds with subsequent liver disorders. Vincamine, a plant indole alkaloid that is utilized as a dietary supplement, has been known for its promising pharmacological activities. For the first time, the present study was planned to estimate, at the molecular level, the potentiality of vincamine against alfa-naphthyl isothiocyanate (ANIT)-induced hepatic cholestasis. Liver function tests were analyzed. Hepatic activity of SOD and levels of GSH and MDA were assessed. Hepatic contents of bax, bcl2, NF-kB, PPARγ, catalase, heme-oxygenase-1, NTCP, and BSEP were evaluated using ELISA. mRNA levels of NF-kB, IL-1β, IL-6, TNFα, PDGF, klf6, PPARγ, and P53 were examined using qRT-PCR. PI3K, Akt and cleaved caspase-3 proteins were assessed using western blotting. Histopathological analyses were performed using hematoxylin & eosin staining. ANIT-induced hepatic cholestasis elevated liver function tests, including AST, ALT, GGT, ALP, and total bilirubin. ANIT reduced the protein expression of NTCP and BSEP hepatic transporters. It induced the expression of the inflammatory genes, TNFα, IL-6, IL-1β, and PDGF, and the expression of NF-kB at the genetic and protein level and suppressed the anti-inflammatory genes, klf6 and PPARγ. Also, antioxidant markers were reduced during ANIT induction such as GSH, SOD, catalase, heme-oxygenase-1 and PI3K/Akt pathway, while MDA levels were elevated. Furthermore, the expression of P53 gene, bax and cleaved caspase 3 proteins were activated, while bcl2 was inhibited. Also, the histopathological analysis showed degeneration of hepatocytes and inflammatory cellular infiltrates. However, vincamine treatment modulated all these markers. It improved liver function tests. It inhibited the expression of NF-kB, TNFα, IL-6, IL-1β and PDGF and activated the expression of klf6 and PPARγ. Furthermore, vincamine reduced MDA levels and induced GSH, SOD, catalase, heme-oxygenase-1 and PI3K/Akt pathway. Additionally, it inhibited expression of P53 gene, bax and cleaved caspase 3 proteins. More interestingly, vincamine showed better outcomes on the hepatic histopathological analysis and improved the alterations induced by ANIT. Vincamine alleviated hepatic dysfunction during ANIT-induced intrahepatic cholestasis through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant efficacies by the modulation of NF-kB/PDGF/klf6/PPARγ and PI3K/Akt pathways.
Standard or Fin SIGN® nail? which option is better for the treatment of femoral fractures in low and middle-income countries?
Authors: Perdomo-Lizarraga Juan Carlos , Andrade-Arellano Dennys J. , Necchi Marco , Zavatta Marcello , Ryan-Coker Marcella , Dixon-Cole Richmond , Muñoz-Mahamud Ernesto , Combalia Andrés
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Femoral fractures are common in low and middle-income countries (LMIC), predominantly caused by high-energy trauma. The surgical implant generation network (SIGN®) program offers two different intramedullary nails in LMIC which are designed to be used without image intensifier free of charge for the patients: the SIGN standard nail (SSN®) and the SIGN Fin nail (SFN®). This study aimed to compare the results of the SSN® and the SFN® for the treatment of middle and distal shaft femoral fractures through a retrograde approach.

Material and Methods

This was a retrospective, descriptive, and non-experimental study including all consecutive patients who underwent surgical management of middle or distal shaft femoral fracture between January 2017 and May 2022 in an NGO hospital located in Freetown, Sierra Leone. The duration of surgery, type of reduction, complications like screw loosening, implant migration, anterior knee pain and non-union rate at six months of follow up were evaluated.

Results

A total of 122 patients were included in the study. Group A: 60 patients were managed with SSN® and Group B: 62 patients with SFN®. The mean operative time was 104 min with SSN® and 78 with SFN® (p < 0.001). Open reduction of the fracture was necessary in ten (16.7%) patients with SSN® and 12 (19.4%) patients treated with SFN® (p = 0.69). Non-union was observed in one (1.7%) patient with SSN® and two (3.2%) patients with SFN® (p = 0.57).

Conclusions

Both options seem equally effective in treating midshaft and distal femoral shaft fractures. The SFN® reduces the surgical time, due to this fact, in polytraumatized patients, patients with bilateral femur fracture or patients with ipsilateral tibia fracture, it can be considered as the best option to be used. There was no statistical difference in the complications presented by the two groups.
Mid-Holocene West African monsoon rainfall enhanced in EC-Earth simulation with dynamic vegetation feedback
Authors: Berntell Ellen , Zhang Qiong
Published: May 2024

Proxy records have shown that the Mid-Holocene was a period of humid conditions across West Africa, with an enhanced West African Monsoon (WAM) and vegetated conditions in areas currently characterized by desert, often referred to as the Green Sahara. However, General Circulation Models regularly struggle with recreating this strengthened Mid-Holocene monsoon in West Africa. Vegetation feedbacks has long been viewed as an essential process modulating the monsoon variability in West Africa, and simulations using prescribed vegetation to recreate a Green Sahara have shown a strengthened WAM and increased rainfall. However, simulations with prescribed vegetation in Sahara represent an idealized vegetation cover and do not take any environmental heterogeneity into account. Furthermore, this only represents a one-directional forcing by the vegetation on the climate rather than the full vegetation feedback. To address this, we have simulated the Mid-Holocene (~ 6 ka) climate using the Earth System Model EC-Earth3-Veg. The results show that coupled dynamic vegetation reproduces an apparent enhancement of the WAM, with the summer rainfall in the Sahel region increasing by 15% compared to simulations with a prescribed modern vegetation cover. Vegetation feedbacks enhance the warming of the Sahara region, deepens the Sahara Heat Low, results in increased rainfall and strengthens monsoonal flow across West Africa. However, the enhancement is still below what can be viewed in proxy reconstructions, highlighting the role of model limitation and biases and the importance of investigating other processes, such as the interactive aerosol-albedo feedback.
The role of the early video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery in children with pleural empyema
Authors: Di Mitri Marco , Thomas Eduje , Capano Eleonora , Bisanti Cristian , D’Antonio Simone , Libri Michele , Gargano Tommaso , Lima Mario
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Pleural empyema (PE) is a collection of purulent material in the pleural space. PE’s management in children is a challenge and an inappropriate diagnostic-therapeutic work up can lead to serious short and long-term complications. The aim of this study is to define the correct timing to approach a pediatric PE by video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS).

Methods

A retrospective observational study was conducted including pediatric patients who underwent video-assisted thoracoscopy for pleural empyema between May 2005 and September 2022.

Results

62 patients were subjected to VATS for PE (32 in Group Early VATS, 30 in Group Late VATS). It emerged that the elapsed period between the onset of symptoms and surgery correlates in a statistically significant way with the post-operative stay in intensive care (z score 4.3 and p value < 0.0001) and the analysis between early VATS, late VATS and postoperative hospitalization showed a statistically significant reduction of the post-operative hospitalization in the early VATS groups (p value < 0.02).

Conclusions

VATS resulted to be safe and effective for the treatment of PE in children, and an early minimally invasive thoracoscopic intervention (early VATS) correlates with better outcomes, specifically in terms of intensive care hospitalization and overall hospitalization.
Higher plant-derived nitrate intake is associated with lower odds of frailty in a cross-sectional study of community-dwelling older women
Authors: Hayes Eleanor , Dent Elsa , Shannon Oliver M. , Zhong Lie Zhou , Bozanich Trent , Blekkenhorst Lauren C. , Zhu Kun , Bondonno Catherine P. , Siervo Mario , Hoogendijk Emiel O. , Hodgson Jonathan M. , Prince Richard L. , Lewis Joshua R. , Sim Marc
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Dietary nitrate intake is inversely related to numerous contributors towards frailty, including cardiovascular disease and poor physical function. Whether these findings extend to frailty remain unknown. We investigated if habitual nitrate intake, derived from plants or animal-based foods, was cross-sectionally associated with frailty in women.

Methods

Community-dwelling older Australian women (n = 1390, mean age 75.1 ± 2.7 years) completed a validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Nitrate concentrations in food were obtained from international nitrate databases. We adopted the Rockwood frailty index (FI) of cumulative deficits comprising 33 variables across multiple health domains (scored 0 to 1), which predicts increased hospitalisation and mortality risk. A FI ≥ 0.25 indicated frailty. Cross-sectional associations between nitrate intake (total plant and animal nitrate, separately) and frailty were analysed using multivariable-adjusted logistic regression models (including lifestyle factors), as part of restricted cubic splines.

Results

A non-linear inverse relationship was observed between total plant nitrate intake and frailty. Compared to women with the lowest plant nitrate intake (Quartile [Q]1), women with greater intakes in Q2 (OR 0.69 95%CI 0.56–0.84), Q3 (OR 0.67 95%CI 0.50–0.90) and Q4 (OR 0.66 95%CI 0.45–0.98) had lower odds for frailty. A nadir in the inverse association was observed once intakes reached ~ 64 mg/d (median Q2). No relationship was observed between total animal nitrate and frailty.

Conclusion

Community-dwelling older women consuming low amounts of plant-derived nitrate were more likely to present with frailty. Consuming at least one daily serving (~ 75 g) of nitrate-rich green leafy vegetables may be beneficial in preventing frailty.
Identification of high-performing antibodies for the reliable detection of Tau proteoforms by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry
Authors: Ellis Michael J. , Lekka Christiana , Holden Katie L. , Tulmin Hanna , Seedat Faheem , O’Brien Darragh P. , Dhayal Shalinee , Zeissler Marie-Louise , Knudsen Jakob G. , Kessler Benedikt M. , Morgan Noel G. , Todd John A. , Richardson Sarah J. , Stefana M. Irina
Published: May 2024

Antibodies are essential research tools whose performance directly impacts research conclusions and reproducibility. Owing to its central role in Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, hundreds of distinct antibody clones have been developed against the microtubule-associated protein Tau and its multiple proteoforms. Despite this breadth of offer, limited understanding of their performance and poor antibody selectivity have hindered research progress. Here, we validate a large panel of Tau antibodies by Western blot (79 reagents) and immunohistochemistry (35 reagents). We address the reagents’ ability to detect the target proteoform, selectivity, the impact of protein phosphorylation on antibody binding and performance in human brain samples. While most antibodies detected Tau at high levels, many failed to detect it at lower, endogenous levels. By WB, non-selective binding to other proteins affected over half of the antibodies tested, with several cross-reacting with the related MAP2 protein, whereas the “oligomeric Tau” T22 antibody reacted with monomeric Tau by WB, thus calling into question its specificity to Tau oligomers. Despite the presumption that “total” Tau antibodies are agnostic to post-translational modifications, we found that phosphorylation partially inhibits binding for many such antibodies, including the popular Tau-5 clone. We further combine high-sensitivity reagents, mass-spectrometry proteomics and cDNA sequencing to demonstrate that presumptive Tau “knockout” human cells continue to express residual protein arising through exon skipping, providing evidence of previously unappreciated gene plasticity. Finally, probing of human brain samples with a large panel of antibodies revealed the presence of C-term-truncated versions of all main Tau brain isoforms in both control and tauopathy donors. Ultimately, we identify a validated panel of Tau antibodies that can be employed in Western blotting and/or immunohistochemistry to reliably detect even low levels of Tau expression with high selectivity. This work represents an extensive resource that will enable the re-interpretation of published data, improve reproducibility in Tau research, and overall accelerate scientific progress.
Acetabular fractures in geriatric patients: epidemiology, pathomechanism, classification and treatment options
Authors: Krappinger Dietmar , Freude Thomas , Stuby Fabian , Lindtner Richard A.
Published: May 2024

The incidence of geriatric acetabular fractures has shown a sharp increase in the last decades. The majority of patients are male, which is different to other osteoporotic fractures. The typical pathomechanism generally differs from acetabular fractures in young patients regarding both the direction and the amount of force transmission to the acetabulum via the femoral head. Geriatric fractures very frequently involve anterior structures of the acetabulum, while the posterior wall is less frequently involved. The anterior column and posterior hemitransverse (ACPHT) fracture is the most common fracture type. Superomedial dome impactions (gull sign) are a frequent feature in geriatric acetabular fractures as well. Treatment options include nonoperative treatment, internal fixation and arthoplasty. Nonoperative treatment includes rapid mobilisation and full weighbearing under analgesia and is advisable in non- or minimally displaced fractures without subluxation of the hip joint and without positive gull sign. Open reduction and internal fixation of geriatric acetabular fractures leads to good or excellent results, if anatomic reduction is achieved intraoperatively and loss of reduction does not occur postoperatively. Primary arthroplasty of geriatric acetabular fractures is a treatment option, which does not require anatomic reduction, allows for immediate postoperative full weightbearing and obviates several complications, which are associated with internal fixation. The major issue is the fixation of the acetabular cup in the fractured bone. Primary cups, reinforcement rings or a combination of arthroplasty and internal fixation may be applied depending on the acetabular fracture type.
Beyond histology: A tissue algorithm predictive of post-surgical recurrence in hepatocellular carcinomas, including TERT promoter mutation
Authors: Vasuri Francesco , Chillotti Stefano , Maloberti Thais , Albertini Elisa , Germinario Giuliana , Cescon Matteo , Ravaioli Matteo , de Biase Dario , D’Errico Antonia
Published: May 2024

Surgical resection for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is burdened with a high recurrence rate and a lack of reliable prognostic factors. The aim of this study was to integrate the HCC pathological features with gene mutations to improve the prognostic role of pathological analysis. This is a monocentric prospective study, including 67 patients resected for HCC. All clinical data and histological features were collected, including tumor grade, architecture, margins, microvascular invasion, and microscopic portal vascular invasion (MPVI). Next-generation sequencing (NGS) was performed using a laboratory-developed multi-gene panel, allowing to amplify 330 amplicons (21.77 kb), covering the relevant targets for solid tumor analysis. The most represented mutations were TERT promoter (n = 41, 61.2%), TP53 (n = 18, 26.9%) and CTNNB1 (n = 17, 25.4%). At follow-up, 13 (19.4%) patients experienced HCC recurrence: at multivariate analysis, tumor dimensions (p = 0.040), MPVI (p = 0.010), and TERT mutation (p = 0.034) correlated with recurrence. Dimensions ≥ 4.5 cm (very close to AJCC stage pT3; 9 recurrences, p = 0.041, odd-ratio = 3.7), MPVI (9 recurrences, p = 0.062, OR = 3.3), and TERT (11 recurrences, p = 0.049, OR = 4.4) correlated with disease-free survival also at univariate analysis. The concomitant occurrence of these three variables was present in 7 cases, among which 5 recurred (p = 0.002, OR = 15.94). In conclusion, NGS analysis in resected HCC could not only be used for future therapies but should be integrated with histopathology to predict the risk of tumor recurrence after surgical resection: TERT mutation is among the strongest predictors of tumor recurrence, together with tumor stage (dimensions) and the occurrence of MPVI, which should always be reported separately from the classic MVI.
One-dose intradermal rabies booster enhances rabies antibody production and avidity maturation
Authors: Kewcharoenwong Chidchamai , Freeouf Saranta , Nithichanon Arnone , Petsophonsakul Wilaiwan , Pornprasert Sakorn , Khamduang Woottichai , Suzuki Tadaki , Onodera Taishi , Takahashi Yoshimasa , Lertmemongkolchai Ganjana
Published: May 2024

The incidence of rabies in Thailand reached its peak in 2018 with 18 human deaths. Preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) vaccination is thus recommended for high-risk populations. WHO has recently recommended that patients who are exposed to a suspected rabid animal and have already been immunized against rabies should receive a 1-site intradermal (ID) injection of 0.1 mL on days 0 and 3 as postexposure prophylaxis (PEP). In Thailand, village health and livestock volunteers tasked with annual dog vaccination typically receive only a single lifetime PrEP dose and subsequent boosters solely upon confirmed animal bites. However, the adequacy of a single PrEP dose for priming and maintaining immunity in this high-risk group has not been evaluated. Therefore, our study was designed to address two key questions: (1) sufficiency of single-dose PrEP—to determine whether a single ID PrEP dose provides adequate long-term immune protection for high-risk individuals exposed to numerous dogs during their vaccination duties. (2) Booster efficacy for immune maturation—to investigate whether one or two additional ID booster doses effectively stimulate a mature and sustained antibody response in this population. The level and persistence of the rabies antibody were determined by comparing the immunogenicity and booster efficacy among the vaccination groups. Our study demonstrated that rabies antibodies persisted for more than 180 days after cost-effective ID PrEP or the 1st or the 2nd single ID booster dose, and adequate antibody levels were detected in more than 95% of participants by CEE-cELISA and 100% by indirect ELISA. Moreover, the avidity maturation of rabies-specific antibodies occurred after the 1st single ID booster dose. This smaller ID booster regimen was sufficient for producing a sufficient immune response and enhancing the maturation of anti-rabies antibodies. This safe and effective PrEP regimen and a single visit involving a one-dose ID booster are recommended, and at least one one-dose ID booster regimen could be equitably implemented in at-risk people in Thailand and other developing countries. However, an adequate antibody level should be monitored before the booster is administered.
Sustainable and smart electric bus charging station deployment via hybrid spherical fuzzy BWM and MULTIMOORA framework
Authors: Deniz Ruchan , Aydin Nezir
Published: May 2024

This study aims to assist public bus operators in locating electric bus charging station (EBCS) facilities from a smart and sustainable view. The selection of the most suitable EBCSs from various possible candidates involves a sophisticated decision-making procedure in terms of several contradictory criteria with imprecise information. The novelty of the study resides in exploring the EBCS site selection problem with spherical fuzzy sets (SFSs), which have shown remarkable effectiveness in limiting information loss by seizing ambiguous, and uncertain data. In this regard, a novel best–worst method (BWM) incorporating Multi-objective optimization via full multiplicative form ratio analysis (MULTIMOORA) methodology in the spherical fuzzy context is proposed to choose the optimal locations for EBCSs. The integrated framework combines the adaptability of the spherical fuzzy BWM (SF-BWM) for determining the criteria weights with the convenience of spherical fuzzy MULTIMOORA (SF-MULTIMOORA) approach for ranking the alternatives. A case study for Istanbul is provided to substantiate the propounded technique and to confirm its viability and efficiency. In the course of making a decision, a four-level hierarchical structure consisting of five main and 22 sub-criteria is built and the comparison matrices are reviewed by a panel of seven experts. A sensitivity analysis is executed, and the results demonstrate that the propositioned approach produces outcomes that are quite robust and consistent. Hence, the findings of this research can benefit public bus operators in choosing the ideal sites for electric charging stations. Finally, the formulated generic methodology is also easily applicable to diverse and complex multiple-criteria problems in the spherical fuzzy domain.
The outcomes of the management of complex distal tibia and ankle fractures in elderly with tibiotalocalcaneal nail in a minimum 12-month follow-up period
Authors: Kotsarinis Georgios , Santolini Emanuele , Kanakaris Nikolaos , Giannoudis Peter V.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the clinical outcomes of the use of tibiotalocalcaneal nail for the treatment of complex distal tibia and ankle fractures in elderly people, in a major trauma centre.

Methods

Elderly patients (age > 65) with distal tibia or ankle fractures that underwent stabilization with a tibiotalocalcaneal nail were eligible to participate. Exclusion criteria were patients that died or were lost to follow-up and cases in which the nail was used in a chronic setting, such as malunion and non-union. Main parameters evaluated were fracture union, complications and functional outcomes. The functional outcome was assessed using the Olerud–Molander Ankle Score (OMAS). The minimum follow-up was 12 months.

Results

Thirty-two consecutive patients (12 males) with a mean age of 80.2 years (range 66–98) met the inclusion criteria and formed the basis of this study. Fracture union was achieved in 93.8% of the cases at a mean time of 3.9 months (range 2–8). Two patients developed surgical site infections and underwent reoperation before union. The overall complication rate was 25.1%, while the respective reintervention rate was 18.8%. In terms of functional outcomes, the mean OMAS score was 45, ranging from 20 to 70.

Conclusion

Tibiotalocalcaneal nailing can be considered as an acceptable less invasive option with good functional outcomes for the treatment of complex distal tibia and ankle fractures in frail patients with problematic local soft tissues.
COVID-19 – Auswirkung auf das Verhalten von Tumorpatienten
Authors: Kaiser Ulrich , Hoffmann Ana , Fiedler Moritz , Kück Fabian , Kaiser Florian , Vehling-Kaiser Ursula
Published: May 2024

Hintergrund

Die Coronavirus-Krankheit-2019 (COVID-19) gefährdet Tumorpatienten durch schwere Krankheitsverläufe.

Ziel der Arbeit

Die vorliegende Untersuchung beschäftigt sich mit dem Impf- und Sicherheitsverhalten von Tumorpatienten bzgl. COVID-19.

Material und Methoden

Von 01/2022 bis 03/2022 wurden an drei medizinischen Versorgungszentren (MVZ) in Niederbayern alle Patienten eingeladen, an einer COVID-19-Umfrage teilzunehmen. Hierfür wurde ein Fragebogen mit den Schwerpunkten Schutzmaßnahmen, Impfungen und erlebte Sicherheit entwickelt. Die statistische Auswertung erfolgte deskriptiv und mittels des exakten Tests nach Fisher sowie mit multivariablen logistischen Regressionsmodellen.

Ergebnisse

1228 Fragebögen konnten ausgewertet werden. 6 % der Patienten waren nicht geimpft. Der Großteil der geimpften Patienten geht davon aus, durch die Impfung vor einem schweren Krankheitsverlauf bzw. komplett geschützt zu sein. Sicherheitsmaßnahmen wurden außerhalb der Familie deutlich strenger gehandhabt als innerhalb. Sicherheitsvorkehrungen in onkologischen Praxen wurden begrüßt.

Diskussion

Tumorpatienten zeigen bzgl. einer COVID-19-Infektion ein hohes Sicherheitsbedürfnis, was sich im Einhalten von Schutzmaßnahmen und in der Akzeptanz von Sicherheitsvorkehrungen widerspiegelt. Beide werden im häuslichen Bereich allerdings deutlich weniger eingehalten, sodass der Aufklärung und Impfung von Angehörigen große Bedeutung zukommt. Nichtgeimpfte Tumorpatienten gaben als Grund der Impfverweigerung neben Angst vor Nebenwirkungen (64 %) insbesondere auch Angst vor einer Krankheitsverschlechterung (51 %) an, sodass die Aufklärung dieser Patientengruppe hinsichtlich Impfung und Sicherheitsmaßnahmen besonders intensiv durchgeführt werden sollte.
A closer look into the affect dynamics of adolescents with depression and the interactions with their parents: An ecological momentary assessment study
Authors: Janssen Loes H.C. , Verkuil Bart , van Houtum Lisanne A.E.M. , Wever Mirjam C.M. , Wentholt Wilma G.M. , Elzinga Bernet M.
Published: May 2024

Adolescents with depression tend to perceive behavior of parents as less positive than adolescents without depression, but conclusions are based on retrospective reports assessed once or over long time intervals, with the risk of memory biases affecting the recall. The current study used ecological momentary assessments to examine the link between adolescent affect and the amount of warmth and criticism expressed by both mothers and fathers in families with adolescents with depression versus adolescents without psychopathology in daily life. It also explored the possible bias by assessing parenting on the momentary, daily (EMA), and retrospective level. The sample consisted of 34 adolescents with depression and 58 parents and 80 healthy controls and 151 parents (adolescents: Mage = 15.8, SD = 1.41; 67.5% girls, parents: Mage = 49.3, SD = 5.73; 54.1% mothers). Participants completed retrospective questionnaires and four surveys a day for 14 consecutive days. Preregistered multilevel models showed that momentary parenting reports of adolescents with depression and healthy controls did not differ. The associations between perceived parenting of both mothers and fathers and adolescent affect did also not differ between the two groups. These results illustrate that adolescents generally benefit from supportive parenting, but substantial differences between individuals were found. In contrast to the momentary data, both adolescents with depression and their parents did report more negative parenting on retrospective questionnaires than healthy controls and their parents indicating that adolescents with depression may have a negativity bias in their retrospective recall. These findings are highly relevant for clinical practice and underscore the need for careful assessments on different time scales and including all family members.
Understanding the influence of AI autonomy on AI explainability levels in human-AI teams using a mixed methods approach
Authors: Hauptman Allyson I. , Schelble Beau G. , Duan Wen , Flathmann Christopher , McNeese Nathan J.
Published: May 2024

An obstacle to effective teaming between humans and AI is the agent’s "black box" design. AI explanations have proven benefits, but few studies have explored the effects that explanations can have in a teaming environment with AI agents operating at heightened levels of autonomy. We conducted two complementary studies, an experiment and participatory design sessions, investigating the effect that varying levels of AI explainability and AI autonomy have on the participants’ perceived trust and competence of an AI teammate to address this research gap. The results of the experiment were counter-intuitive, where the participants actually perceived the lower explainability agent as both more trustworthy and more competent. The participatory design sessions further revealed how a team’s need to know influences when and what teammates need explained from AI teammates. Based on these findings, several design recommendations were developed for the HCI community to guide how AI teammates should share decision information with their human counterparts considering the careful balance between trust and competence in human-AI teams.
Multi-agent system architecture for winter road maintenance: a real Spanish case study
Authors: Jiménez-Bravo Diego M. , Bajo Javier , González-Pachón Jacinto , De Paz Juan F.
Published: May 2024

Road safety remains a critical issue in contemporary society, where the sudden deterioration of road conditions due to weather-related natural phenomena poses significant risks. These abrupt changes can lead to severe safety hazards on the roads, making real-time monitoring and control essential for maintaining road safety. In this context, technological advancements, especially in sensor networks and intelligent systems, play a fundamental role in efficiently managing these challenges. This study introduces an innovative approach that leverages a sophisticated sensor platform coupled with a multi-agent system. This integration facilitates the collection, processing, and analysis of data to preemptively determine the appropriate chemical treatments for roads during severe winter conditions. By employing advanced data analysis and machine learning techniques within a multi-agent framework, the system can predict and respond to adverse weather effects swiftly and with a high degree of accuracy. The proposed system has undergone rigorous testing in a real-world environment, which has verified its operational effectiveness. The results from the deployment of the multi-agent architecture and its predictive capabilities are encouraging, suggesting that this approach could significantly enhance road safety in extreme weather conditions. Furthermore, the proposed architecture allows the system to evolve and scale over time. This paper details the design and implementation of the system, discusses the results of its field tests, and explores potential improvements.
Development of a reliable surgical quality assurance tool for gastrectomy in oncological trials
Authors: Harris A. , Butterworth J. B. , Boshier P. R. , Mavroveli S. , Vadhwana B. , Peters C. J. , Eom B. W. , Yeh C.-C. , Mikhail S. , Sasako M. , Kim Y.-W. , Hanna G. B.
Published: May 2024

Background

Despite its recognized importance, there is currently no reliable tool for surgical quality assurance (SQA) of gastrectomy in surgical oncology. The aim of this study was to develop an SQA tool for gastrectomy and to apply this tool within the ADDICT Trial in order to assess the extent and completeness of lymphadenectomy.

Methods

The operative steps for D1+ and D2 gastrectomy have been previously described in the literature and ADDICT trial manual. Two researchers also performed fieldwork in the UK and Japan to document key operative steps through photographs and semi-structured interviews with expert surgeons. This provided the steps that were used as the framework for the SQA tool. Sixty-two photographic cases from the ADDICT Trial were rated by three independent surgeons. Generalizability (G) theory determined inter-rater reliability. D-studies examined the effect of varying the number of assessors and photographic series they rated. Chi-square assessed intra-rater reliability, comparing how the individual assessor’s responses corresponded to their global rating for extent of lymphadenectomy.

Results

The tool comprised 20 items, including 19 anatomical landmarks and a global rating score. Overall reliability had G-coefficient of 0.557. Internal consistency was measured with a Cronbach’s alpha score of 0.869 and Chi-square confirmed intra-rater reliability for each assessor as < 0.05.

Conclusions

A photographic surgical quality assurance tool is presented for gastrectomy. Using this tool, the assessor can reliably determine not only the quality but also the extent of the lymphadenectomy performed based on remaining anatomy rather than the excised specimen.
Long-term returns to local health-care spending
Authors: Červený Jakub , Ours Jan C. van
Published: May 2024

This paper investigates the effects of health-care spending on mortality rates of patients who experienced a heart attack. We relate in-hospital deaths to in-hospital spending and post-discharge deaths to post-discharge health-care spending. In our analysis, we use detailed administrative data on individual personal characteristics including comorbidities, information about the type of medical treatment and information about health-care expenses at the regional level. To account for potential selectivity in the region of health-care treatment we compare local patients with visitors and stayers with recent movers from a different region. We find that in regions with higher health-care spending mortality after heart attacks is substantially lower. From this we conclude that there are long-term returns to local health-care spending.
Improved Prediction of the Flow in Cylindrical Critical Flow Venturi Nozzles Using a Transitional Model
Authors: Weiss Sebastian , Mickan Bodo , Polansky Jiri , Oberleithner Kilian , Bär Markus , Schmelter Sonja
Published: May 2024

Critical flow Venturi nozzles (CFVNs) are a state-of-the-art secondary standard widely used for gas flow measurements with high precision. The flow rate correlates with the type and thickness of the boundary layer (BL) inside the nozzle throat. In the cylindrical type—one of the two standard designs of CFVNs—the nozzle throat encompasses a defined axial length in which the BL develops. This numerical study is concerned with the BL effects in a cylindrical CFVN by means of two turbulence models. Compared to experimental data, the k-$$\omega$$
ω
SST model predicts the discharge coefficient well for high and low Reynolds numbers, but not in the intermediate regime. The $$\gamma$$
γ
-$$Re_{\theta }$$

R

e
θ

model, on the contrary, agrees well with experimental data in the entire flow range. Relevant quantities and profiles of the BL are separately investigated in the laminar, turbulent, and transitional region. The calculated laminar and turbulent BL thicknesses correspond to predictions based on integral methods for solving the BL equations. Simple representations are proposed for the Zagarola-Smits scaled laminar and turbulent deficit BL profiles removing the effects of axial position, Reynolds number, and pressure gradient. Furthermore, the shape factor is investigated as a characteristic parameter for determining the transitional region.
Targeting CD44 and other pleiotropic co-receptors as a means for broad inhibition of tumor growth and metastasis
Authors: Mehner Lisa-Marie , Munoz-Sagredo Leonel , Sonnentag Steffen Joachim , Treffert Sven Máté , Orian-Rousseau Véronique
Published: May 2024

Although progress has been made in the treatment of cancer, particularly for the four major types of cancers affecting the lungs, colon, breast and prostate, resistance to cancer treatment often emerges upon inhibition of major signaling pathways, which leads to the activation of additional pathways as a last-resort survival mechanism by the cancer cells. This signaling plasticity provides cancer cells with a level of operational freedom, reducing treatment efficacy. Plasticity is a characteristic of cancer cells that are not only able to switch signaling pathways but also from one cellular state (differentiated cells to stem cells or vice versa) to another. It seems implausible that the inhibition of one or a few signaling pathways of heterogeneous and plastic tumors can sustain a durable effect. We propose that inhibiting molecules with pleiotropic functions such as cell surface co-receptors can be a key to preventing therapy escape instead of targeting bona fide receptors. Therefore, we ask the question whether co-receptors often considered as “accessory molecules” are an overlooked key to control cancer cell behavior.
Correction to: The Spherical Parametrisation for Correlation Matrices and its Computational Advantages
Authors: Lucchetti Riccardo , Pedini Luca
Published: May 2024

Formula (4) in Lucchetti and Pedini (2023) contains a typo. We correct it.