bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Asociación entre parámetros hemáticos y el desarrollo de nefropatía inducida por contraste en pacientes con infarto de miocardio sin elevación del segmento ST
Authors: Dönmez Esra , Özcan Sevgi , Şahin İrfan , Okuyan Ertuğrul
Published: September 2023

Objetivos

Los parámetros hemáticos, como el volumen plaquetario medio (VPM), el índice neutrofilo/linfocito (INL), la amplitud de distribución eritrocitaria (ADE), y la amplitud de distribución plaquetaria (ADP), son indicadores ampliamente utilizados en el pronóstico de diversas patologías cardiovasculares. Investigamos el valor predictivo de los parámetros hemáticos en el desarrollo de nefropatía inducida por contraste (NIC), en pacientes con infarto de miocardio sin elevación del segmento ST (IAMSEST), sometidos a intervención coronaria percutánea (ICP).

Métodos

Se incluyó retrospectivamente a todos los pacientes diagnosticados de IAMSEST que se sometieron a una ICP percutánea entre 2017 y 2020 en un hospital terciario.

Resultados

Se incluyó a un total de 387 pacientes. El análisis de regresión logística mostró que la edad avanzada (p=0,001, β:0,005, OR [IC95 %]: 0,002–0,007), la presencia de diabetes mellitus (p=0,013, β:0,205, OR [IC95 %]: 0,150–0,260), insuficiencia cardíaca congestiva (p=0,009, β:0,095, OR [IC95 %]: 0,024–0,166), así como el volumen plaquetario medio (p=0,008, β:0,241, OR [IC95 %]: 0,184–0,392), VPM (p=0,02, β:0,047, OR [IC95 %]: 0,028–0,065), e INL (p=0,001, β:0,052, OR [IC95 %]: 0,040–0,063) fueron factores de riesgo independientes de desarrollar NIC. Un valor umbral de 5,5 para INL mostró una sensibilidad del 79,6 % y una especifidad del 79,5 %, mientras que el valor umbral de 9,05 para el VPM mostró una sensibilidad del 64,1 % y una especifidad del 58,7 % a la hora de predecir el desarrollo de NIC.

Conclusiones

los parámetros hematológicos, medidos mediante hemograma rutinario, se postulan como marcadores útiles y prometedores de NIC, cuando se emplean en combinación con otros factores de riesgo habituales. El VPM y el INL predicen el desarrollo de NIC en pacientes con IAMSEST sometidos a ICP.
Technology Adoption under Negative External Effects
Authors: Carbonell-Nicolau Oriol
Published: September 2023

This paper shows that, in the presence of negative production external effects (e.g., waste, pollution), market-driven technology adoption is socially inefficient. Two distinct market structures are considered within the neoclassical framework: perfect competition and monopoly. In both cases, there is a range of cost structures under which firms prefer the adoption of inferior technologies. A number of policy instruments are considered in terms of their welfare enhancing properties.
Performance evaluation of alternate ESR measurement method using BC-780 automated hematology analyzer: a comparison study with the Westergren reference method
Authors: Prompetchara Eakachai , Parnsamut Chalisa , Wangviwat Nathawit , Pitakpolrat Patrawadee , Chaiwong Kwanlada , Limpornpukdee Orakarn , Tanticharoenkarn Surapat , Ketloy Chutitorn
Published: September 2023

Objectives

Implementation of alternate erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) measurement method is increasing worldwide due to its various advantages. In this study, we aim to evaluate the analytical performance of the BC-780 automated hematology analyzer in measurement of ESR value.

Methods

Analyzer performance including precision study, carryover, sample stability and potential interferences are examined. Samples with ESR values spanning the whole analytical ESR range are included for method comparison study. Samples with different hematocrit (Hct) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) values are also analyzed and compared with the results obtained from the Westergren reference method.

Results

Precisions and carryover results are consistent with the manufacturers’ claim. ESR values do not change significantly in the samples stored at 2–8 °C for 24 h (h) or at room temperature (RT) for 8 h, but significantly decreased (p<0.001) when stored at RT for 24 h. Significant increase in ESR value is documented in samples that are hemolyzed (hemoglobin concentration ranged from 1.28–6.01 g/L) (p=0.010) or lipemic (triglyceride above 4.75 mmol/L) (p=0.001). Method comparison study yields a proportional difference with a regression equation=3.08+ 0.98x. Bland–Altman analysis shows a mean absolute bias of 3.12 mm. The obtained absolute mean biases are below 5 mm in all analytical categories except for the group where MCV>100 fL.

Conclusions

Most tested parameters met the manufacturer’s specifications and were comparable to the reference method. Despite the presence of positive bias, it falls within acceptable criteria. Extensive validation against potential interferences such as hemolysis/lipemia is still necessary in future.
Combined deficient response to polysaccharide-based and protein-based vaccines predicts a severe clinical phenotype
Authors: Cockx Maaike , Haerynck Filomeen , Hoste Levi , Schrijvers Rik , Van der Werff ten Bosch Jutte , Dillaerts Doreen , Thomas Debby , Schaballie Heidi , Bucciol Giorgia , Robberechts Wiert , Patel Dina , Berbers Guy , Desombere Isabelle , Geukens Nick , Meyts Isabelle , Bossuyt Xavier
Published: September 2023

Objectives

Antibody response on polysaccharide- and protein-based vaccines is useful to test B cell functionality. As only few studies have explored the value of studying immune response to both vaccines, we evaluated the clinical value of anti-polysaccharide and anti-protein Luminex-based multiplex assays in context of primary immunodeficiency (PID) diagnosis.

Methods

A 10-plex Luminex-based assay detecting antibodies to ten pneumococcal polysaccharide (PnPS) serotypes [present in unconjugated Pneumovax, not in 13-valent pneumococcal conjugated vaccine (PCV)] and a 5-plex assay detecting antibodies to five protein antigens (present in DTap/Tdap) were clinically validated in healthy individuals (n=99) and in retrospective (n=399) and prospective (n=108) patient cohorts. Clinical features of individuals with impaired response to PnPS and/or proteins were compared to those with normal response.

Results

Antigen-specific antibody thresholds were determined in healthy individuals. Individuals with impaired anti-PnPS responses and deficient immunoglobulin levels suffered more from autoimmune diseases and had lower B cell levels compared to individuals with impaired anti-PnPS response with normal immunoglobulin levels. Individuals with combined impaired response to PnPS and proteins showed more severe clinical manifestations compared to individuals with isolated impaired response to PnPS or proteins. Eight of the 11 individuals with severely impaired responses to both PnPS and proteins had common variable immunodeficiency. Evaluation of the anti-PnPS response to four serotypes not contained in 20-valent PCV was comparable to evaluation to ten serotypes not contained in 13-valent PCV.

Conclusions

Multiplexed assessment of anti-PnPS and anti-protein responses combined with immunoglobulin quantification provides useful clinical information to support PID diagnosis.
Outer ear reconstruction using 3D technology
Authors: Wersényi György , Gasz Balázs
Published: September 2023

Manufacturing replicas for replacing missing or defective body parts also incorporates 3D technology, including scanning, image processing and printing. In the case of the ears, both aesthetics and functionality play a significant role. Based on these techniques, outer ear replicas were produced using 3D scans of human skulls in a rapid prototyping procedure for actual patients. Hand-held scanners delivered accurate images for post-processing of the mesh and for printing in a cost- and time efficient way. Use cases of patients demonstrate applicability, allowing the technology to be available also for the general population in the future.
Sobel edge detection for quantifying the effectiveness of focused ultrasound thalamotomy for tremor relief
Authors: Aharonson Vered , Postema Michiel , Gebbie Robyn , Van Der Merwe Jesse , Schlesinger Ilana
Published: September 2023

Focused ultrasound on the thalamus is employed to relieve tremor in movement disorders. The treatment efficacy is currently assessed by subjective observation of patient tremor during hand movements. The purpose of this study was to create a simple quantitative method to assess tremor based on traditional pen-and-paper spiral drawing that could be employed during treatment and follow-up visits. Image processing was employed to automatically and rapidly clean scanned spiral and line drawings and to isolate the minimal part of the drawing that could provide sufficient data for tremor detection. Sobel edge detection and easily-interpretable statistics of the distribution of edge-angle orientations in the spirals relative to the spiral centres were used as tremor measures. The method was applied to scanned drawings of 122 tremor patients before treatment and in follow-up visits. Discrimination analysis of the tremor measure between drawings in the session before treatment and the follow-up sessions was carried out. The processing yielded correctly cropped and clean spirals. The tremor measure demonstrated consistent tremor reduction in the treated hand drawings in all five follow-up visits during the first year following treatment date in 76 patients from the study cohort. In this study we developed a computational method that rapidly computed tremor severity estimate in an explainable and clinically useful manner from a traditional pen-and-paper spiral drawing. This rapid quantitative and objective tremor assessment can easily be implemented during focused ultrasound treatment and replace the subjective assessment currently employed.
Evaluation of MetaHumans as Digital Tutors in Augmented Reality in Medical Training
Authors: Pour Mahtab Ebrahimi , Gießer Christian , Schmitt Johannes , Brück Rainer
Published: September 2023

The digitizing of medical education has been winning more support in recent years. One of the options is the implementation of Augmented Reality to complement or replace conventional methods in medical training and to create a more efficient learning environment for medical students and prospective staff in healthcare. In this work a Digital Tutor in Augmented Reality in medical training is evaluated with the aim of finding out whether it offers an additional value compared to conventional learning and teaching methods. Therefore, an application for medical training was arranged and a user survey with (n = 24) students from the Faculty of Life Sciences at the University of ANONYMIZED was carried out. The utilized application had two versions. One version included the Digital Tutor, who verbally delivered the instructions, and the other version included a text box with written instructions. The students evaluated these two applications through a questionnaire. Further, to validate this work an expert interview was conducted with a person in charge of designing concepts for the digitizing of education for the Faculty of Life Sciences at the University of ANONYMIZED. Through the survey and interview it was concluded that the Digital Tutor has an additional value compared to the text box. In the future the interactivity of the Digital Tutor with the students should be improved and a larger study should be done to further validate this outcome.
Innovative Hybrid Halbach Array for Steering Magnetic Nanoparticles Through a Bifurcation
Authors: Thalmayer Angelika S. , Fischer Georg
Published: September 2023

Magnetic nanoparticles are used in a wide range of medical applications. However, the accurate steering of the particles through the vascular system is still an open research question. Thus, this paper introduces a novel hybrid magnetic array for steering magnetic nanoparticles through a bifurcation. The array consists of permanent plus electromagnets and is based on a Halbach structure. It combines the advantages of the strong magnetic field of low-cost permanent magnets with the adjustability of electromagnets. The array is investigated numerically in a 3D model using COMSOL Multiphysics. In the simulations, the propagation of the particles in a symmetrical bifurcation is analyzed for discrete coil currents in the range of −10A to 10 A. The results reveal that for low negative currents of −1A to −0.5 A, the influence of the magnetic field of the permanent magnets can be almost completely eliminated, and only 0.5% and 0.9 %, respectively, of the particles were trapped by the magnets. Thus, the hybrid array outperforms the reference of a Halbach array fully built of permanent magnets. Overall, the proposed hybrid array is much more flexible, and the magnetic force can be adjusted more precisely compared to an array of permanent magnets.
Laparoscopic surgery augmentation through vibro-acoustic sensing of instrument-tissue interactions
Authors: Esmaeili Nazila , Fischerauer Sophie , Sühn Thomas , Boese Axel , Bußhoff Jana , Datta Rabi , Illanes Alfredo
Published: September 2023

This paper presents the use of vibro-acoustic sensing to augment laparoscopic surgery procedures by analyzing the signals produced during cutting and palpation tasks on various tissue samples. Vibro-acoustic signals were acquired during an experiment on a dedicated phantom covered in dense foam, where three trocars were inserted into the phantom to place the endoscopic camera and two laparoscopic instruments. The results of the signals analysis demonstrate the potential of this approach for making laparoscopic interactions audible, differentiating between tissue types, and detecting variations in tissue properties. Vibro-acoustic sensing could be a valuable tool for integrating sound into the current clinical workflow for enhancing endoscope video images.
Generation of 3D models of victims within their surroundings at rescue sites
Authors: Kriebisch Susann , Bruder Ralf , Ernst Floris
Published: September 2023

The use of state-of-the-art technology in emergencies enables fast assessment of the situation. Modern rescue robots, but also rescuers with camera systems, record vast amounts of image data. In addition to the benefits for rescue operations, a quick overview based on this data can help medical staff in the search for suitable treatment strategies. However, such data must be examined and fused into an intuitive display. In this work, exemplary image streams of RGB-D cameras are searched for victims and transferred into separate 3D models per detected person for subsequent intuitive viewing, rotating, and zooming. The method was tested and preliminary evaluated for its functionality, detail accuracy and readability of textures at the German Rescue Robotics Center.
Pepsin concentration in oral lavage fluid of rabbit reflux model constructed by dilating the lower esophageal sphincter
Authors: Sun Zhezhe , Wu Wei , Wang Gang , Li Lianyong , Wang Lei , Liu Hongdan
Published: September 2023

The aim of this study was to explore the changes in pH and pepsin concentrations in oral lavage fluid of rabbit reflux model. A total of 18 New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into two groups. The lower esophageal sphincters (LESs) of the rabbits in the experimental group (EG) were dilated by balloon after the LESs were localized by manometry. The pH levels of the throat and the lower esophagus were monitored 1 week before and 2 weeks after inflation. Oral lavage fluid was collected 1 week before, and 2 and 8 weeks after inflation. The pH monitoring showed that the percentage of reflux time, the number of reflux events, and the longest time of reflux after the dilation (AE) in the EG were significantly higher than before the dilation (P < 0.01). The pepsin concentrations at 2 and 8 weeks AE in the EG were significantly higher than that before and that in the control group (P < 0.05). Based on receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, the best diagnostic threshold value was 30.3 ng/ml. The reflux model constructed by balloon inflation of the LES in rabbits is characterized by a decrease in throat pH and an increase in salivary pepsin concentration.
Linguistic and relational strategies for advice giving in an online commercial context
Authors: Yuan Wen , Jin Yue
Published: September 2023

Studies on online advice-giving have focused on non-profit public platforms but rarely examined it in commercial contexts, where the advisor has the motive of seeking economic interests. This study investigates advice-giving in the first five-minute part of paid live talks, which is free but designed to entice the audience to pay for the remaining part. Transcripts of 123 five-minute recordings are collected. This study analyzes individual speakers’ use of discursive moves and the corresponding relational strategies, as well as their effectiveness in boosting online sales. The results indicate that four discursive moves, i.e., metacomment, general information, advice, and assessment, are the most frequently used, with a large majority of advice phrased in declaratives. Statistical analysis showed that inexperienced, non-expert, and low-community-status speakers tend to use more bonding, and expert, experienced, high-community-status, and male speakers prefer to use more hedging. In addition, the effects of bonding, empathizing, and hedging on sales are consistently positive, while those of criticizing are negative; the above effects are moderated by the speaker’s social status. This study adds to the understudied issue of advisors’ relational negotiations and their resultant outcome in public commercial contexts.
Air contamination, syringe contamination, and cross-contamination when using an automatic compounding device for sensitizing drugs
Authors: Sessink Paul , Cajaraville Gerardo , Tamés Maria José , Riestra Ana , Alcorta Andrea , Telleria Naiara , Grisaleña Jaione
Published: September 2023

Objectives

To measure cross-contamination between batches of different sensitizing drugs, contamination on the outside of compounded syringes, and drug concentrations in environmental air when using an automated compounding device.

Methods

One batch of piperacillin/tazobactam syringes followed by one batch of meropenem syringes were compounded daily for three consecutive days by one operator. For each batch two hundred syringes were filled. During each batch, three stationary air samples (two inside and one outside the compounding device), and one personal air sample were collected. At the end of the compounding process, the outside of 40 syringes was tested for drug contamination by wipe sampling. The drug compounded was checked for cross-contamination with the other drug compounded in the previous batch. Liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry was used for the analysis of piperacillin and meropenem.

Results

Piperacillin was measured in environmental air inside the device (8.1–335 ng/m3), outside the device (5.2–21 ng/m3), and in the personal air samples of the operator (15 and 155 ng/m3) during two batches. Meropenem was not detected during meropenem compounding. Piperacillin was found in the air samples of the operator during two batches (12 and 15 ng/m3). Meropenem was not detected in any of the air samples. The drug compounded was found on the outside of the syringes for all batches (piperacillin: 1.35–30 ng/cm2; meropenem: 0.07–0.65 ng/cm2). Piperacillin was detected on the syringes in all meropenen batches (0.56–11 ng/cm2), and meropenen in two piperacillin batches (0.07 and 0.46 ng/cm2). The drug solutions show no cross-contamination with the other drug for any of the batches.

Conclusions

Cross-contamination was not found and the drug concentrations in environmental air were below the Occupational Exposure Limit of 0.1 mg/m3. The automatic compounding device meets the criteria for a safe compounding of sensitizing drugs for patient and operator.
Uso de herramientas colaborativas y teletrabajo en la producción de Informativos en Canal Sur Televisión tras la COVID-19
Authors: Olivares-García Francisco J. , Román-San-Miguel Aránzazu , Méndez-Majuelos Inés
Published: September 2023

Introducción. Este trabajo analiza la pervivencia en la producción informativa de tecnologías y modelos de producción usados durante la pandemia, por ejemplo, el uso de herramientas colaborativas de videollamadas en las emisiones en directo, el teletrabajo y otras aplicaciones usadas durante aquellos meses que se han mantenido tras el levantamiento del estado de alarma. Metodología. El estudio emplea un enfoque metodológico de naturaleza mixta, combinando elementos tanto cualitativos como cuantitativos. Para alcanzar los objetivos planteados, se emplearon tres instrumentos de recolección de datos: la entrevista, la encuesta y el método de observación participante. Mediante el uso de estas herramientas, se buscó obtener una comprensión integral y profunda del fenómeno de estudio, permitiendo capturar tanto aspectos subjetivos como objetivos. Discusión y Resultados. Se estudia el uso que redactores, realizadores y productores de la Radio Televisión Andaluza hacen de estos programas informáticos, especialmente en el informativo diario Despierta Andalucía que, gracias al uso de teletrabajo parcial y herramientas colaborativas consigue superar la eficiencia y productividad anterior al COVID-19. Conclusiones. Las herramientas colaborativas que se usaron durante la pandemia se han convertido en una forma de producción eficiente y económica , por lo que se han mantenido en la mayoría de los casos, especialmente el uso de aplicaciones de videoconferencias para su emisión en directo.
Research on Temperature Stability of Asphalt Based on Improved Softening Point Test
Authors: Xue Zhihua , Wang Lan , Li Chao , Zhang Le
Published: September 2023

The softening point is one of the important indexes used to evaluate the high-temperature performance of asphalt. However, some modified asphalt softening points show irregular changes before and after aging, and the correlation with other high-temperature indexes is not high, which has been a concern for researchers. To this end, this work takes styrene-butadiene-styrene–modified asphalt as the research object and long- and short-term aging as the condition, through the improvement of softening point test and combined with the temperature-sensitive correlation, differential scanning calorimetry, and dynamic shear rheology tests, to explore the significance of improving the softening point test–related indicators to provide new ideas for the asphalt performance evaluation system.
Les effets de la pandémie de COVID-19 sur l’intervention collective visant la mobilisation et le développement des communautés à Sherbrooke
Authors: Badji Marie Suzanne , Gueye Serge Touba Mbacké , Bourque Denis , Doré Chantal , Lapierre-Fortin Émanuèle , Oularé Néné , Morin Paul
Published: September 2023

L’article explore les effets de la pandémie de COVID-19 sur les pratiques d’intervention collective et l’action intersectorielle à Sherbrooke, au Québec, pour comprendre les dynamiques locales pendant la crise sanitaire. Des entrevues individuelles semi-structurées ont été combinées à une analyse de documents. Une analyse de contenu thématique a permis de donner un sens aux données recueillies. Les résultats se déclinent en cinq thèmes principaux. Les processus d’intervention collective et d’action intersectorielle se caractérisent, avant la pandémie, par une culture de collaboration bien établie, par des concertations matures et par des pratiques concertées; pendant la pandémie, par une gestion agile de la réponse, par des intervenants résilients et créatifs ainsi que par une définition spontanée de nouveaux rôles adaptés au contexte. Les stratégies de communication proposées s’articulent autour des sources d’accès à l’information et de la compréhension des informations communiquées. L’analyse des effets de la pandémie révèle des besoins émergents et des vulnérabilités à prendre en compte.
Protein Kinase A-Dependent Plasticity of Local Inhibitory Synapses from Hilar Somatostatin-Expressing Neurons
Authors: Hernández-Vivanco Alicia , Jiménez-Redondo Esther , Cano-Adamuz Nuria , Méndez Pablo
Published: September 2023

Hippocampal inhibitory neurons (INs) contact local targets and project to different brain areas to form synapses on distal neurons. Despite the importance of INs for hippocampal function and interregional brain communication, the impact of activity-dependent plasticity mechanisms on local and long-range GABAergic synapses formed by hippocampal INs remains to be fully elucidated. Here, we use optogenetic-coupled electrophysiology in mice to show that protein kinase A (PKA), a master regulator of GABAergic synapse plasticity, causes a form of long-term potentiation of inhibitory synapses (iLTP) in hippocampal granule cells (GCs). This form of iLTP is observed in GCs synapses originated in local INs expressing the marker somatostatin (SST), but not in those expressing parvalbumin. Long-range synapses formed by SST INs onto medial septum neurons are unaffected by PKA activation. iLTP of local SST synapses on GCs is accompanied by changes in presynaptic probability of release and is occluded by pharmacological increase of synaptic activityin vivo. Our results suggest that PKA-dependent inhibitory synapse plasticity is expressed in local, but not long-range, targets of SST INs and selectively modifies inhibitory microcircuits essential for hippocampal function.
Prostaglandin E2Induces Long-Lasting Inhibition of Noradrenergic Neurons in the Locus Coeruleus and Moderates the Behavioral Response to Stressors
Authors: Mukai Yasutaka , Okubo Tatsuo S. , Lazarus Michael , Ono Daisuke , Tanaka Kenji F. , Yamanaka Akihiro
Published: September 2023

Neuronal activity is modulated not only by inputs from other neurons but also by various factors, such as bioactive substances. Noradrenergic (NA) neurons in the locus coeruleus (LC-NA neurons) are involved in diverse physiological functions, including sleep/wakefulness and stress responses. Previous studies have identified various substances and receptors that modulate LC-NA neuronal activity through techniques including electrophysiology, calcium imaging, and single-cell RNA sequencing. However, many substances with unknown physiological significance have been overlooked. Here, we established an efficient screening method for identifying substances that modulate LC-NA neuronal activity through intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) imaging using brain slices. Using both sexes of mice, we screened 53 bioactive substances, and identified five novel substances: gastrin-releasing peptide, neuromedin U, and angiotensin II, which increase [Ca2+]i, and pancreatic polypeptide and prostaglandin D2, which decrease [Ca2+]i. Among them, neuromedin U induced the greatest response in female mice. In terms of the duration of [Ca2+]ichange, we focused on prostaglandin E2(PGE2), since it induces a long-lasting decrease in [Ca2+]ivia the EP3receptor. Conditional knock-out of the receptor in LC-NA neurons resulted in increased depression-like behavior, prolonged wakefulness in the dark period, and increased [Ca2+]iafter stress exposure. Our results demonstrate the effectiveness of our screening method for identifying substances that modulate a specific neuronal population in an unbiased manner and suggest that stress-induced prostaglandin E2can suppress LC-NA neuronal activity to moderate the behavioral response to stressors. Our screening method will contribute to uncovering previously unknown physiological functions of uncharacterized bioactive substances in specific neuronal populations.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTBioactive substances modulate the activity of specific neuronal populations. However, since only a limited number of substances with predicted effects have been investigated, many substances that may modulate neuronal activity have gone unrecognized. Here, we established an unbiased method for identifying modulatory substances by measuring the intracellular calcium signal, which reflects neuronal activity. We examined noradrenergic (NA) neurons in the locus coeruleus (LC-NA neurons), which are involved in diverse physiological functions. We identified five novel substances that modulate LC-NA neuronal activity. We also found that stress-induced prostaglandin E2(PGE2) may suppress LC-NA neuronal activity and influence behavioral outcomes. Our screening method will help uncover previously overlooked functions of bioactive substances and provide insight into unrecognized roles of specific neuronal populations.
Detection of Spatially Localized Sounds Is Robust to Saccades and Concurrent Eye Movement-Related Eardrum Oscillations (EMREOs)
Authors: Bröhl Felix , Kayser Christoph
Published: September 2023

Hearing is an active process, and recent studies show that even the ear is affected by cognitive states or motor actions. One example are movements of the eardrum induced by saccadic eye movements, known as “eye movement-related eardrum oscillations” (EMREOs). While these are systematically shaped by the direction and size of saccades, the consequences of saccadic eye movements and their resulting EMREOs for hearing remain unclear. We here studied their implications for the detection of near-threshold clicks in human participants. Across three experiments, sound detection was not affected by their time of presentation relative to saccade onset, by saccade amplitude or direction. While the EMREOs were shaped by the direction and amplitude of the saccadic movement, inducing covert shifts in spatial attention did not affect the EMREO, suggesting that this signature of active sensing is restricted to overt changes in visual focus. Importantly, in our experiments, fluctuations in the EMREO amplitude were not related to detection performance, at least when monaural cues are sufficient. Hence, while eye movements may shape the transduction of acoustic information, the behavioral implications remain to be understood.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTPrevious studies suggest that oculomotor behavior may influence how we perceive spatially localized sounds. Recent work has introduced a new perspective on this question by showing that eye movements can directly modulate the eardrum. Yet, it remains unclear whether this signature of active hearing accounts for behavioral effects. We here show that overt but not covert changes in visual attention modulate the eardrum, but these modulations do not interfere with the detection of sounds. Our results provide a starting point to obtain a deeper understanding about the interplay of oculomotor behavior and the active ear.
Structural and Functional Development of Inhibitory Connections from the Medial Nucleus of the Trapezoid Body to the Superior Paraolivary Nucleus
Authors: Lee Jongwon , Clause Amanda , Kandler Karl
Published: September 2023

The medial nucleus of the trapezoid body (MNTB) in the auditory brainstem is the principal source of synaptic inhibition to several functionally distinct auditory nuclei. Prominent projections of individual MNTB neurons comprise the major binaural nuclei that are involved in the early processing stages of sound localization as well as the superior paraolivary nucleus (SPON), which contains monaural neurons that extract rapid changes in sound intensity to detect sound gaps and rhythmic oscillations that commonly occur in animal calls and human speech. While the processes that guide the development and refinement of MNTB axon collaterals to the binaural nuclei have become increasingly understood, little is known about the development of MNTB collaterals to the monaural SPON. In this study, we investigated the development of MNTB-SPON connections in mice of both sexes from shortly after birth to three weeks of age, which encompasses the time before and after hearing onset. Individual axon reconstructions and electrophysiological analysis of MNTB-SPON connectivity demonstrate a dramatic increase in the number of MNTB axonal boutons in the SPON before hearing onset. However, this proliferation was not accompanied by changes in the strength of MNTB-SPON connections or by changes in the structural or functional topographic precision. However, following hearing onset, the spread of single-axon boutons along the tonotopic axis increased, indicating an unexpected decrease in the tonotopic precision of the MNTB-SPON pathway. These results provide new insight into the development and organization of inhibition to SPON neurons and the regulation of developmental plasticity in diverging inhibitory pathways.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTThe superior paraolivary nucleus (SPON) is a prominent auditory brainstem nucleus involved in the early detection of sound gaps and rhythmic oscillations. The ability of SPON neurons to fire at the offset of sound depends on strong and precise synaptic inhibition provided by glycinergic neurons in the medial nucleus of the trapezoid body (MNTB). Here, we investigated the anatomic and physiological maturation of MNTB-LSO connectivity in mice before and after the onset of hearing. We observed a period of bouton proliferation without accompanying changes in topographic precision before hearing onset. This was followed by bouton elimination and an unexpected decrease in the tonotopic precision after hearing onset. These results provide new insight into the development of inhibition to the SPON.
Rewarding Capacity of Optogenetically Activating a Giant GABAergic Central-Brain Interneuron in LarvalDrosophila
Authors: Mancini Nino , Thoener Juliane , Tafani Esmeralda , Pauls Dennis , Mayseless Oded , Strauch Martin , Eichler Katharina , Champion Andrew , Kobler Oliver , Weber Denise , Sen Edanur , Weiglein Aliće , Hartenstein Volker , Chytoudis-Peroudis Charalampos-Chrysovalantis , Jovanic Tihana , Thum Andreas S. , Rohwedder Astrid , Schleyer Michael , Gerber Bertram
Published: September 2023

Larvae of the fruit flyDrosophila melanogasterare a powerful study case for understanding the neural circuits underlying behavior. Indeed, the numerical simplicity of the larval brain has permitted the reconstruction of its synaptic connectome, and genetic tools for manipulating single, identified neurons allow neural circuit function to be investigated with relative ease and precision. We focus on one of the most complex neurons in the brain of the larva (of either sex), the GABAergic anterior paired lateral neuron (APL). Using behavioral and connectomic analyses, optogenetics, Ca2+imaging, and pharmacology, we study how APL affects associative olfactory memory. We first provide a detailed account of the structure, regional polarity, connectivity, and metamorphic development of APL, and further confirm that optogenetic activation of APL has an inhibiting effect on its main targets, the mushroom body Kenyon cells. All these findings are consistent with the previously identified function of APL in the sparsening of sensory representations. To our surprise, however, we found that optogenetically activating APL can also have a strong rewarding effect. Specifically, APL activation together with odor presentation establishes an odor-specific, appetitive, associative short-term memory, whereas naive olfactory behavior remains unaffected. An acute, systemic inhibition of dopamine synthesis as well as an ablation of the dopaminergic pPAM neurons impair reward learning through APL activation. Our findings provide a study case of complex circuit function in a numerically simple brain, and suggest a previously unrecognized capacity of central-brain GABAergic neurons to engage in dopaminergic reinforcement.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTThe single, identified giant anterior paired lateral (APL) neuron is one of the most complex neurons in the insect brain. It is GABAergic and contributes to the sparsening of neuronal activity in the mushroom body, the memory center of insects. We provide the most detailed account yet of the structure of APL in larvalDrosophilaas a neurogenetically accessible study case. We further reveal that, contrary to expectations, the experimental activation of APL can exert a rewarding effect, likely via dopaminergic reward pathways. The present study both provides an example of unexpected circuit complexity in a numerically simple brain, and reports an unexpected effect of activity in central-brain GABAergic circuits.
Current evidence of the role of vitamin E in prolonging a healthy life
Authors: Traber Maret G
Published: September 2023

This is a narrative review of the evidence of α-tocopherol importance in human health, especially with regards to its vitamin role. α-Tocopherol is a potent peroxyl radical scavenger, and this role is prominent in its efficacy in maintaining the metabolic health of tissues. Vitamin E deficiency is discussed as a tool to understand the impact of α-tocopherol’s absence promoting increased lipid peroxidation and polyunsaturated fatty acid depletion. Downstream deficiency consequences include impacts on choline and one-carbon metabolism, glucose and energy metabolism, and their interactions with critical thiols, such as glutathione. Importantly, human vitamin E deficiency, caused by genetic defects in the α-tocopherol transfer protein (α-TTP), provides important clues for the necessity of α-tocopherol for the peripheral nervous system. Moreover, α-TTP expression in the liver, brain, eyes, and placenta illustrates that these tissues are especially vulnerable and require this specific α-tocopherol delivery mechanism for their protection. Although clinical trial evidence is limited and equivocal about the health benefits of vitamin E supplements, there is epidemiologic evidence of the long-term benefits of increased α-tocopherol intakes in ’healthy’ diets (high in vegetables and fruits, fish, nuts, and seeds, as well as fiber).

Significance statement

The elaborate regulation of α-tocopherol concentrations by the human body suggests that the consistent consumption of the recommended amounts of dietary α-tocopherol (15 mg) over a lifetime are protective of the at-risk tissues, as well as providing protection from chronic diseases.
Properties of abaca/epoxy composites modified by activated carbon particles for orthosis application
Authors: Sosiati Harini , Kosasih Muhammad , Pamasti Ankas , Adi Rahmad K. , Hamdan Sinin , Yusuf Yusril
Published: September 2023

Abaca fiber (AF), epoxy (EP), and activated carbon particle (ACPs) incorporated composites have been previously studied to improve their mechanical properties. A study on integrating AF and ACPs to reinforce EP has not been done for comparison. The current study investigates the mechanical (tensile and flexural) and physical (water absorption) properties of AF/EP composites with 20 vol% AF modified by ACPs at 1% to 10% levels, and ACPs/EP composite with 20 vol% ACPs. Optical and scanning electron microscopy examined ACPs and the composite’s fracture surface morphologies. X-ray diffraction was used to identify the ACPs’ phase. The results showed that adding 5 vol% ACPs to AF/EP led to an optimum tensile strength of 42.50 MPa, which was slightly lower than AF/EP (43.00 MPa), and an optimum flexural strength of 62.10 MPa, which was slightly higher than AF/EP (60.50 MPa). Besides, adding 20% ACPs to EP resulted in a tensile strength of 31.93 MPa, higher than the previous result of ACPs/EP (26.34 MPa), also by adding 20% ACPs. Introducing ACPs to AF/EP could reduce water absorption in the composite by 6.52%. The measured flexural modulus of AF/EP added with 5 vol% ACPs was selected as the best material used in the simulation of ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) by Autodesk Inventor integrated with ANSYS Workbench 2019 R1. Applying a load of 27 N resulted in a von Misses stress of 54.018 MPa and a deformation of 44.675 mm.
Screening for Critical Congenital Heart Defects in Sweden
Authors: Lannering Katarina , Kazamia Kalliopi , Bergman Gunnar , Östman-Smith Ingegerd , Liuba Petru , Dahlqvist Jenny Alenius , Elfvin Anders , Mellander Mats
Published: September 2023

OBJECTIVES

Early diagnosis of critical congenital heart defects (CCHD) improves survival. We evaluated the relative contributions of prenatal ultrasound, neonatal pulse oximetry screening (POS), and neonatal physical examination (NPE) to the early detection (before discharge) of CCHD in the context of increasing prenatal detection, and POS being a national standard since 2013.

METHODS

Retrospective, nationwide population-based study. All full-term live-born infants with CCHD in Sweden between 2014 and 2019 were included. CCHD was defined as a congenital heart defect requiring surgery or catheter-based intervention or resulting in death within 28 days of birth.

RESULTS

Of 630 infants, 89% were diagnosed before discharge or death, 42% prenatally, 11% from early symptoms, 23% by POS, and 14% from NPE after a negative POS. Four (0.6%) died undiagnosed before discharge and 64/630 (10%) were discharged undiagnosed, with 24/64 being readmitted with circulatory failure and causing 1 preoperative death. Coarctation was the most prevalent CCHD (N = 184), 25% of whom were detected prenatally (12% by POS and 29% by NPE). Two died undiagnosed before discharge and 30% were discharged undiagnosed. Transposition was the second most common defect (N = 150) and 43% were detected prenatally (33% by POS, 1 by NPE) and 2 died undiagnosed before POS. None was discharged undiagnosed.

CONCLUSIONS

POS and NPE remain important for the early detection of CCHD complementing prenatal ultrasound screening. Nevertheless, 1 in 10 with CCHD leaves the hospital without a diagnosis, with coarctation being the predominant lesion. Future research on CCHD screening should have a particular focus on this cardiac defect.
Beyond the psychedelic hype: Exploring the persistence of the neoliberal paradigm
Authors: Davies James , Pace Brian A. , Devenot Neşe
Published: September 2023

Background and Aims

Advocates of psychedelic medicine have positioned psychedelics as a novel therapeutic intervention that will solve the mental health crisis by liberating individuals from their entrenched habits and limiting beliefs. Despite claims for novelty, the psychedelics industry is engaging in the same profit-oriented approaches that contributed to poor clinical outcomes with SSRIs and other earlier pharmaceuticals, which threatens to undermine their purported clinical benefits.

Methods

We present evidence that the liberatory rhetoric of psychedelic medicalization promotes neoliberal, individualised treatments for distress, which distracts from collective efforts to address root causes of suffering through systemic change. Drawing examples from the psychedelics industry, we illustrate how the discourse of psychedelic medicalisation subjects socially-determined distress to psychotropic intervention through the mechanisms of depoliticisation, productivisation, pathologisation, commodification, and de-collectivisation.

Results

Rather than disrupting or subverting the psychopharmaceutical status quo, the psychedelic industry's current instantiation aligns with and upholds key facets of neoliberal ideology by adhering to the same facilitative mechanisms that scholars identified in the antidepressant industry. We identify these common mechanisms in examples unique to the psychedelics industry, including the search for psychedelic analogues and political lobbying to reschedule psychedelics.

Conclusion

We demonstrate how a neoliberal mental health paradigm that individualises and interiorizes mental distress cannot meaningfully resolve suffering with ubiquitous origins in the current sociopolitical environment, which is characterised by inequality, precarity, exploitation, and ecological collapse. As a result, psychedelics must decouple from neoliberal incentives, and demonstrate efficacy, if they are to facilitate durable improvements in well-being and prosocial outcomes.
First records of the genus Elatosara Malzacher, 2020 (Ephemeroptera, Caenidae) from the Lao People’s Democratic Republic
Authors: Vannachak Viengkhone , Malzacher Peter , Sangpradub Narumon
Published: September 2023

The genus Elatosara was described by Malzacher, 2020 from the Mekong River in Thailand, with E. phanomensis Malzacher, 2020 as its type species. Here, we report E. phanomensis for the first time from central and southern Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR). A few morphological variations were observed in the Lao PDR population as compared to the paratypes of E. phanomensis. The discovery of E. phanomensis extends the distribution of the genus to the Lao PDR. 
Factors affecting the drying shrinkage of alkali-activated slag/fly ash mortars
Authors: Aiken Timothy A. , Kwasny Jacek , Zhou Zuyao , McPolin Daniel , Sha Wei
Published: September 2023

Climate change associated with carbon emissions is driving a demand for low-carbon cements. One of the most promising low-carbon alternatives is alkali-activated binder systems consisting of fly ash and ground granulated blast furnace slag. However, there are some issues related to their drying shrinkage which can be problematic when upscaling these binders to produce full size construction products. This study found that modifying the curing regime can reduce the drying shrinkage of alkali-activated mortars by up to 60%. The proportion of slag and fly ash employed also influences drying shrinkage behaviour but is less significant than the curing temperature and curing duration before drying is initiated. The drying shrinkage performance appears to be linked to the maturity and strength of the different mixes when drying begins.

Graphical abstract
Resolution of the XV Congress of Pediatricians of Russia with International Participation «Actual Problems of Pediatrics»
Authors: Editorial Article
Published: September 2023

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Resolution of the Independent Expert Council of the Union of Experts in the Field of Immunoprophylaxis
Authors: Editorial Article
Published: September 2023

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A Content Analysis of Mathematics Self-Efficacy Themed Articles Published in Türkiye
Authors: NURLU ÜSTÜN Özge
Published: September 2023

Self-efficacy belief, which can affect the performance of individuals by determining their approach to goals, tasks and difficulties, has been the subject of numerous studies in different disciplines. Mathematics self-efficacy has become the focus of researchers all over the world, especially because of its strong impact on achievement in educational research. In Turkey, studies conducted with different variables and research designs on the theme of mathematics self-efficacy add richness to the literature, but make it difficult to reveal the current situation of this theme. This study aimed to investigate mathematics self-efficacy themed articles in terms of the field, subject, study group/sampling, applied method, data collection tools, analysis techniques, and publishing language in Turkey. The study was designed as a descriptive content analysis. 101 articles published between 2010 and 2022 were included in the study. Data were analysed by using the MAXQDA 2022 qualitative analysis program. The analysis of the data was based on the code and category list designed by Baş and Özturan Sağırlı (2017). The research concluded that the number of mathematics self-efficacy themed articles in Turkey has increased with fluctuations over the years, but there has been a significant decrease in recent years and these articles focused on the fields of mathematics and geometry education and the subject matter of mathematics self-efficacy, mathematical literacy self-efficacy, and mathematics teaching self-efficacy. In addition, it was determined that the most frequently used methods are surveys and scale development studies. These are followed by experimental design and mixed method studies. Accordingly, it has been concluded that data is often collected through scales/surveys, and very few studies apply qualitative data collection techniques. Moreover, the most used analysis techniques were correlation, t-test and ANOVA. It was determined that the most frequently studied group consists of middle school students and prospective teachers. Most of mathematics self-efficacy themed articles in Turkey were published in Turkish.