bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spinalna mišićna atrofi ja – molekularna genetika u dijagnostici i terapiji
Authors: Barišić Nina , Ivanović Vanja , Lehman Ivan , Grđan Petra
Published: November 2024

Spinalna mišićna atrofi ja je autosomno recesivna bolest karakterizirana degeneracijom donjeg alfa- motoneurona. Bolest uzrokujemutacija gena SMN1 koji se nalazi na kromosomu 5q, čiji produkt je protein SMN (survival motor neuron). Gen SMN2 je kopija genaSMN1, ali njegovom transkripcijom i translacijom nastaje samo 10-15% funkcionalnog proteina SMN zbog „tihe“ mutacije unutargena i isključenja egzona 7 iz translacijskog procesa. Mehanizam je poznat kao alternativni splicing. SMN2 je moćan modifi katorbolesti. Broj SMN2 kopija je značajan za težinu bolesti. Terapijski cilj je povećanje ekspresije i funkcije proteina SMN. Protusmjerni oligonukleotidi (AON) usmjereni su na uključivanje egzona 7 u SMN2 mRNA, popravak defekta RNA, aktivaciju transkripcije SMN2 tesprječavanja degradacije SMN-a, što dovodi do stvaranja stabilnog i funkcionalnog proteina. Ekspresija proteina SMN1 povećava sei u perifernim tkivima i u središnjem živčanom sustavu nakon i.m. primjene gena SMN pomoću adenovirusnog vektora AAV9,značajno produljujući preživljavanje u eksperimentalnih životinja sa SMA-om. Ova jednostavna i praktična metoda prijenosa genapotencijalno je značajna za liječenje degenerativnih bolesti motoneurona u djece i odraslih.
rds: mucopolysaccharidoses; glycosaminoglycans; clinical laboratory techniques; biological markers
Authors: Fumić Ksenija , Bilić Karmen , Zekušić Marija , Škaričić Ana , Barić Ivo
Published: November 2024

U rastućem broju nasljednih metaboličkih bolesti lizosomske bolesti nakupljanja čine relativno malu skupinu od 60-tak bolesti. Njihova podskupina, mukopolisaharidoze (MPS), obuhvaća samo sedam tipova bolesti (uz podtipove), koje su zbog patofi ziološkekompleksnosti, progresivnog tijeka, multiorganske zahvaćenosti te izrazite kliničke heterogenosti i danas izazov suvremenoj medicini. U posljednjih desetak godina velik je broj bolesnika s mukopolisaharidozama uključen u različite programe liječenja. U tijeku je nizkliničkih ispitivanja kao i najave novih mogućih pristupa liječenju i specifi čnijih biomarkera. Potreba za što ranijim postavljanjemdijagnoze i poduzimanjem pravodobnog liječenja dovela je do znatno jednostavnijeg i bržeg slanja uzoraka u laboratorije. Sve češćefi ltar-papir zamjenjuje epruvetu, a dijagnostičke se metode prilagođavaju tehnologiji tandemske spektrometrije masa (MS/MS). Sveove činjenice upućuju na to da ovoj podskupini lizosomskih bolesti treba posvetiti dodatnu pozornost.
Međunarodni sustav nomenklature u humanoj citogenetici – ISCN 2013. Izmjene i dopune novom izdanju
Authors: Pohovski Leona Morožin
Published: November 2024

Međunarodni sustav nomenklature u humanoj citogenetici (engl. International System for Human Cytogenetic Nomenclature,ISCN) središnja je referenca za opisivanje kromosomskog sastava u čovjeka. Nedavno objavljeno novo izdanje, ISCN 2013. je cjelovita revizija prehodne publikacije ISCN 2009. Cilj ovog članka je dati pregled izmjena u nomenklaturi u pojedinim poglavljimaISCN-a 2013. u uspredbi s ISCN-om 2009. Smjernice i preporuke namijenjene su citogenetičarima kako bi pomogli pri prijelazu uuporabi najnovije nomenklature za prikazivanje nalaza u citogenetici i molekularnoj citogenetici.
Pneumonias in children – comparison of lung ultrasonography findings with chest X-rays
Authors: Lovrenski Jovan , Petrović Slobodanka , Varga Ivan , Varga Jan
Published: November 2024

The aim of the study was to compare lung ultrasonography with chest X-ray fi ndings in children with clinical suspicion of pneumonia and to investigate the accuracy of lung ultrasonography and its value in patient management and in reducing the number of chest X-rays. This prospective study included 52 patients (2 months to 15 years of age), with suspected pneumonia and clinically indicated chest X-rays. In each patient, chest X-rays and prior to it lung ultrasonography examination were performed and their fi ndings compared. Some patients also had follow-up lung ultrasonography and chest X-ray examinations compared. Each hemithorax was evaluated and compared separately. For lung ultrasonography examinations, a combined transthoracic-transabdominal approach was used. The ultrasonography characteristics of pneumonia were determined. Also, the impact of lung ultrasonography on the patient management was analyzed. Comparison between chest X-ray and lung ultrasonography fi ndings was performed in 134 hemithoraces. Fifty-four of them were negative for pneumonia. In the rest of 80 hemithoraces, lung ultrasonography showed a pneumonia-positive fi nding, while chest X-ray were positive in 74 hemithoraces. In 11 of 43 (25.6%) children with pneumonia-positive fi nding, new information gained from sonography aff ected the course of therapy. Ultrasonography fi nding of pneumonia was presented with subpleural consolidation (100%), air bronchogram (92.5%), interstitial/alveolar-interstitial edema (79%), pleural thickening and irregularity (46%), pleural eff usion (41%), and fl uid bronchogram (7.5%). In conclusion, lung ultrasonography might become an important part of the standard diagnostic protocol in the evaluation of pneumonias in children and reduce the number of chest X-ray.
Tinea Corporis in an infant mimicking acrodermatitis enteropathica
Authors: Akkurt Zeynep Meltem , Dal Tuba , Ucmak Derya , Kelekci Selvi , Karabel Musemma
Published: November 2024

A 5-month-old female infant presented with widespread periorifi cial erythematous plaques suggestive of acrodermatitis enteropathica. The patient was in good condition without any systemic complaints and/or relevant past medical history. Mycological culture revealed Microsporum canis and complete clearance of lesions was achieved with systemic fl uconazole. This case is presented to emphasize that dermatophytoses should be borne in mind in healthy infants presenting with widespread erythematous eruptions.
Mesenchymal chondrosarcoma - a therapeutic challenge
Authors: Bilić L.Galunić , Krajina Z. , Juretić A. , Dekleva V. , Lončar K. , Bručić L. Jajac , Krpan A. Mišir , Šantek F. , Bašić-Koretić M.
Published: November 2024

Mesenchymal chondrosarcoma is an aggressive subtype of chondrosarcoma that accounts for less than 1% of all sarcomas. Although it appears in all age groups, it is more frequent in younger patients. In view of its low incidence, there is no consensus about its optimal treatment. The aim of this presentation is to share our experience of treating a patient suffering from mesenchymal chondrosarcoma. A 46-year-old female patient suffered for several years from health problems in the form of undefined pain and pressure in the right occipital region and later in the form of right-sided deafness. Magnetic resonance imaging showed an extracranial tumor mass spreading through the occipital bone into the neighboring brain tissue. An operation was performed and the tumor was removed. Histopathologic examination demonstrated mesenchymal chondrosarcoma. Follow up MRI revealed tumor relapse and a second operation was performed. Histopathology confirmed mesenchymal chondrosarcoma. As adjuvant therapy, 3D-CRT treatment using a tumor dose of 56 Gy in 28 fractions was administered. Afterwards, the patient was regularly followed up. Postoperative follow up using positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) disclosed pathologic accumulation of fluorine-18-deoxyglucose (FDG) in the neck lymph nodes and lung parenchymal tissue. Ultrasound guided fine needle aspiration of the suspect neck lymph nodes was performed but only inflammatory cells and no tumor cells were found. With regard to the suspect FDG accumulation in the lung tissue, a thoracic surgeon was consulted. He suggested regular follow up of the patient. Mesenchymal chondrosarcoma is a relatively rare tumor with a high tendency towards local aggressive growth and distant metastases. As regards the presented case, adjuvant radiotherapy with regular follow up appointments seems to be an advisable and rational option. The question that remains is: which chemotherapy option should be administered and when in the treatment of this rare type of tumor?
A girl with an asymptomatic parietal encephalocele
Authors: Guid M. Todorovič , Vokač N. Kokalj , Varda N. Marčun , Varda N. Marčun
Published: November 2024

Encephalocele is a general term that denotes protrusion of cranial contents beyond the normal border of the skull. A female infant with a soft swelling on the head diagnosed as posterior parietal encephalocele at the age of 8 months is presented. The reason for late diagnosis was most likely her asymptomatic presentation. Neurosurgical repair was simple, as the lesion containing only cerebrospinal fluid was small. The postoperative period was also uncomplicated. Nevertheless, the child was followed up later on. In addition, genetic analysis by high-resolution micro-array technique was found to be normal.
Large malignant cardiac tumor in a 7-year-old child
Authors: Lazea C. , Manasia R. , Oprita S. , Denes C. L. , Manole S.
Published: November 2024

Primary malignant cardiac tumors are extremely rare in childhood and among them, sarcomas are most frequent. We present clinical, echocardiographic and magnetic resonance imaging findings of a 7-year-old child in whom an invasive malignant cardiac tumor was detected at the level of the right atrium and ventricle, with the presence of pulmonary metastases at the time of diagnosis.
Introduction of obligatory vaccination against smallpox in Dalmatia and the city of Split during the first half of the 19th century
Authors: Brisky L. , Krželj V. , Lozić B. , Šamija R. Kuzmanić , Brisky T.
Published: November 2024

The aim of this study was to present the beginnings of vaccination against smallpox in Dalmatia and the city of Split during the first half of the 19th century. This preventive action was introduced by protomedic Orazio Pinelli in 1801. Although the first Austrian rule in Dalmatia (1797-1805) supported the vaccination, subsequent French government (1805-1813) was especially dedicated to this campaign, particularly its governor Vincenzo Dandolo. His Decision on vaccination against smallpox from 1807 had an exceptional importance for the successful implementation of vaccination against smallpox, as well as the Regulation on vaccination proclaimed by the second Austrian rule in 1824. This study revealed the attempts of different Dalmatian governments at the introduction and propagation of vaccination as the most important preventive measure against smallpox.
Prevalence of and risk factors for dental fear and anxiety emergence in children
Authors: Bajrić E. , Jurić H. , Kobašlija S.
Published: November 2024

Discontinuity of dental visits due to the presence of dental fear and anxiety is one of the largest problems in modern dentistry. The present study investigated the prevalence of dental fear and anxiety and factors for their emergence in children. The sample included 120 patients divided into three age groups of 40 patients (age 8, 12 and 15 years), who visited the Clinic/Department of Preventive and Pediatric Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Sarajevo University. The prevalence of dental fear and anxiety was determined using Dental subscale of the children’s fear survey schedule (CFSS-DS). The prevalence of factors for dental fear and anxiety emergence was also assessed. In the study sample, there were 14 (11.7%) patients with the presence of dental fear and anxiety. Study subjects generally experienced factors for dental fear and anxiety emergence as stressful regardless of age and sex, emphasizing pain experienced during dental treatment. Direct exposure to harmful factors was found to have a very important role in dental fear and anxiety emergence in our patients. Results also showed the higher the level of fear in parents to be followed by the higher level of fear in their children.
Neurodevelopmental outcome in children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Alimović S.
Published: November 2024

Objective of research: The primary aim of this paper was to analyse neurodevelopmental outcome in children with cerebral palsy. The second objective was to question the correlation of different kinds of perinatal brain damage and subsequent neurodevelopmental outcome and also to investigate possible differences in neurodevelopment relating to referral to early intervention programs. Subjects and methods: In a prospective study we followed 12 children (5 girls, 7 boys) who had suffered perinatal brain injuries. All children were addressed to the day care center „Little house – Zagreb“ for a habilitation program. For all children perinatal brain damage was documented by medical reports and a neonatal brain ultrasound scan. At the mean age of 6 years and 6 months they underwent assessment of motor and visual development and an assessment of functional capabilities and performance. Results: All children showed clear abnormalities in motor development and visual impairments that influenced the domains of self-care, mobility and social functions. The results also showed a significant difference in neurodevelopmental outcome regarding perinatal brain damage and referral to an early intervention program. Conclusion: The results showed that children with cerebral palsy are in great need of a comprehensive habilitation program. This program requires an active approach which must include facilitation of normal movement and postural achievement, visual, tactile and auditory stimulation and also ensure that the child enjoys environmental and emotional stability. Continual follow up assessment is necessary in order to recognize more specific problems in the neurodevelopmental outcome of these children and also to specify further habilitation programs.
Comorbidities in ten children with Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder ADHD)
Authors: Jurin M. , Šribar A. , Rukavina I.
Published: November 2024

Aims: Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder – ADHD is one of the most common neuro-developmental disorders (cognitive and behavioural) in childhood and adolescence, and it is characterised by symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsiveness and detention disturbance. A diagnosis is made on the basis of the appropriate diagnostic criteria (Diagnostic and Statistical manual - DSM-IV) and the International Classification of Disorders – ICD-10. The aim of this study was to present the accompanying difficulties (comorbidities) in children with ADHD. Methods: Ten children were included in the study aged from 5 to 16 years. A detailed pre-, peri- and post-natal history was recorded. In order to confirm or exclude disorders related to ADHD a neuropaediatric examination was undertaken, a psychiatric and psychological evaluation was performed and laboratory tests and EEG recordings were undertaken (including sleep EEG). In most children neuroradiological diagnostics were also performed such as CT (computerized tomography) of the brain and MR (nuclear magnetic resonance) of the brain. Results: Eight children had normal EEG findings. Apart from certain EEG abnormalities characteristic for the appropriate types of epilepsy, the patients mostly recorded slow dysrhythmic activity of high amplitude on the EEG recording. Eight children had pathological results of neuroradiological brain examinations: focal cortical dysplasia, multiple cavernous hemangiomas, post-traumatic glial scars, periventricular leukomalacia, intracranial haemorrhage and a cyst on the epiphyseal gland. In the whole group of patients five of them had had epilepsy, and three complex (atypical) febrile convulsions. Eight children had accompanying difficulties such as delays in speech development, mild hemiparesis, sight disturbances, cognitive deficit and nocturnal enuresis. Conclusion: The disorders which are most frequently linked with ADHD are sleep and behavioural disorders, tics, depression, anxiety, socialization difficulties, problems with sight and hearing, epilepsy, neurometabolic diseases and brain tumours. An analysis of our results shows that ADHD very rarely appears as an isolated disorder without comorbidities. Epilepsy is the most frequent disorder and it occurs in ten patients in our group. The experience of a multidiscipline team shows that the best results in treatment of AHDH are attained by using a combination of drugs and various psychosocial and psycho-educational methods.
Tracheotomy in pediatric patients
Authors: Babić I. , Tolić Z. , Jakobović J. , Kušt S.
Published: November 2024

Pediatric tracheotomy differs from tracheotomy in adults, not only in indications but also in operative techniques, postoperative complications and postoperative care. Indications for tracheotomy have changed during history. Whereas upper airway infections such as diphtheria and croup were the main reasons for tracheotomy in the past, the indications have been modified upon the discovery of antibiotics. Currently, tracheotomy is mostly used for upper airway obstruction due to congenital malformations, or to facilitate assisted ventilation and lower airway toilet. Pediatric tracheotomy is more difficult because of anatomic variation between children and adults, emergency tracheotomy in particular, which is fortunately rarely required. Although endotracheal intubation is currently a procedure of great relevance that in some cases precedes tracheotomy, prolonged intubation leads to severe airway lesions, thus appropriate timing of tracheotomy is of utmost importance. Operative techniques have not yet been standardized and various methods are employed (e.g., tracheal and dermal access), with variable results. The term childhood refers to a wide age span from neonatal age through 18 years of age; therefore the approach in tracheotomy varies according to the child’s age. The most severe postoperative complications include tracheal stenosis and suprastomal collapse of the anterior tracheal wall. Postoperative difficulties in swallowing, speech and decannulation are more pronounced in children, making the postoperative course and recovery more complex. Parental preparation for a tracheotomized child and proper education of medical personnel and parents in due care of such a child are crucial for favorable outcome.
New approach to etiology factors in treatment of neonatal seizures
Authors: Rešić B. , Rešić J. , Antičić M.
Published: November 2024

Neonatal convulsions are a very alarming and in the most cases the only manifestation of an underlying neural disorder. Seizures occur in 3.5-4.4/1000 live births. Convulsions in the immature brain can cause irreversible changes to the synapsis and can cause progress of convulsions. According to clinical manifestations, EEG changes and outcome, disorders are divided into benign and severe epileptic syndromes. Seizures may also be caused by genetic disorders, several of which are benign, familial, and caused by channelopathies involving potassium channels. Convulsions caused by these disorders are often pharmaco resistant to antiepileptic therapy. This review also discusses epileptic syndromes seen in neonates, including early myoclonic encephalopathy and Ohtahara syndrome. Early diagnosis of these disorders is important for detecting structural brain changes which have a genetic cause and need specific treatment.
Intellectual abilities in preschool children and later school achievement
Authors: Bilać S.
Published: November 2024

Intellectual abilities are an important pre-requisite in learning and are dominant in our system of schooling. The aim of this work is to investigate the correlation between measures of intelligence in preschool children and subsequent school achievement, taking into consideration gender and the stage of primary education (the earlier and the later years). Subjects and methods: The sample consisted of 177 preschool children in the year before starting school (102 boys and 75 girls), of which 160 were followed-up until the end of their primary education. Intelligence was measured by the Goodenough „Draw a man“ test (GOOD), Bender visual gestalt test (LB), Kohs block design test (KOHS) and the verbal part of the Wechsler intelligence scale for children (WISC). Their school achievement was measured by an average of average of school grades for earlier years (PRONIZI) and later years (PROVISI). Results: The correlation between intelligence measures and school grades indicated gender variations throughout schooling. The majority of statistically significant correlation coefficients had relatively higher values in boys compared with girls, and in earlier years compared with later ones for both genders. Verbal scale results (WISC) had consistently higher correlations, but neurophysiological maturity (KOHS and LB results) was also important, especially in boys.
Effect of plasma treatment of Ag/ZnO hybrid photocatalysts on the optical properties and morphology of Ag nanoparticles
Authors: Savastenko Natalie A. , Shcherbovich Anastasiya A. , Lyushkevich Veronika A. , Filatova Irina I. , Maskevich Sergei A.
Published: November 2024

Subject of study. This study investigates Ag/ZnO hybrid photocatalysts and the role of silver nanoparticles as the active phase of these hybrid photocatalysts after treatment with low-temperature plasma generated from a dielectric barrier discharge. Aim of study. The aim is to determine how plasma treatment affects the optical properties and morphology of silver nanoparticles in Ag/ZnO hybrid photocatalysts as well as to explore the relationship between plasma-induced morphological changes and the photocatalytic activity of Ag/ZnO in the photodegradation of methyl orange and caffeine. Method. Ag/ZnO hybrid photocatalysts and silver nanoparticle ensembles were treated with dielectric barrier discharge plasma in air at normal pressure. The photocatalytic performances of the original and plasma-treated materials were evaluated through the degradation of methyl orange and caffeine in aqueous solutions under ultraviolet light, and the concentrations of methyl orange and caffeine were measured by spectrophotometry. The effects of plasma modification were analyzed using photoluminescence spectroscopy, spectrophotometry, and atomic force microscopy. Main results. A plasma-induced reduction in the size of silver nanoparticle agglomerates was observed, accompanied by an increase in the number of individual nanoparticles. The nanoparticle size changes were dependent on the energy and duration of plasma treatment. Additionally, the plasma treatment of ZnO-based hybrid photocatalysts led to a marked increase in the fluorescence lifetime of ZnO, contributing to enhanced photocatalytic activity in the degradation of organic pollutants in aqueous media. Practical significance. Improving the efficiency of Ag/ZnO photocatalysts for the removal of organic impurities from aqueous media through photodegradation represents a significant advancement in environmental management.
Relation between parenting style and confident decision-making in a student population
Authors: Wolf Kara , Tajchman Zuzanna , Vilares Iris
Published: November 2024

Parenting styles differ in their expression of care and (over)protection behaviors and are associated with markedly different outcomes in children. While research has examined the effects of parenting styles on global self-esteem and self-efficacy, little is known about how they might relate to decision-confidence (metacognitive bias) in a task. This study examined the possible relation between students’ decision-confidence and the perceived parenting style of their primary caregiver. Participants (N = 246) played a trust game and rated their confidence in task choices. The perceived parenting style of their caregiver was determined using participants’ responses to the Parental Bonding Instrument. Participants’ decision-confidence was not significantly associated with their caregiver’s parenting style. However, decision-confidence was positively related with self-efficacy to a small degree. Exploratory analyses indicated that participants with overprotective caregivers were more likely to report poor self-efficacy and self-esteem; increased depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms; childhood adversity; and anxious and avoidant attachment; while participants with caring caregivers showed the opposite pattern. Our results are a step towards understanding the potential effects of parenting on adult children’s decision-confidence and contribute to growing evidence that perceived parental behaviors have strong associations with young adults’ mental health, self-worth, and relationship attachment.
Recruitment and polarization typing of tumor-associated macrophages is associated with tumor progression and poor prognosis in Wilms tumor patients
Authors: Wang Zhang , Jin Liming , Wang Jinkui , Tian Xiaomao , Mi Tao , Li Mujie , Zhang Zhaoxia , Wu Xin , Li Maoxian , Liu Jiayan , Wang Zhaoying , Liu Yimeng , Luo Junyi , Ren Chunnian , He Dawei
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) play a crucial role in shaping various tumor microenvironments. However, their recruitment in Wilms tumor (WT), the predominant malignant renal tumor in children, has been inadequately explored. This retrospective cohort study involved the analysis of 148 WT samples to investigate the recruitment and polarization typing of TAMs in WT tissues.

Methods

WT tissues underwent Western blotting (WB), reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), and immunofluorescence (IF) to measure the expression of TAM markers CD68, CD86, and CD163. Statistically analyze the relationship between TAM recruitment levels and patient clinical characteristics, and use Kaplan-Meier curves and the log-rank test to evaluate the association between TAM levels and survival outcomes.

Results

The findings indicated a positive correlation between the recruitment levels of total macrophages (Mtotal) and M2 tumor-associated macrophages (M2 TAM) in both chemotherapy and non-chemotherapy groups with the clinical stage. Elevated recruitment of Mtotal and M2 TAM in tumor tissues was linked to a poorer prognosis. Notably, patients with persistently higher recruitment of M2 TAM following preoperative chemotherapy exhibited the worst prognosis.

Conclusions

The recruitment and polarization typing of TAM exhibit significant differences in WT patients with various stages and prognosis outcomes, suggesting a potential avenue for future diagnosis and treatment of WT.
Enhancing multiclass COVID-19 prediction with ESN-MDFS: Extreme smart network using mean dropout feature selection technique
Authors: Ahmed Saghir , Raza Basit , Hussain Lal , Sadiq Touseef , Dutta Ashit Kumar
Published: November 2024

Deep learning and artificial intelligence offer promising tools for improving the accuracy and efficiency of diagnosing various lung conditions using portable chest x-rays (CXRs). This study explores this potential by leveraging a large dataset containing over 6,000 CXR images from publicly available sources. These images encompass COVID-19 cases, normal cases, and patients with viral or bacterial pneumonia. The research proposes a novel approach called "Enhancing COVID Prediction with ESN-MDFS" that utilizes a combination of an Extreme Smart Network (ESN) and a Mean Dropout Feature Selection Technique (MDFS). This study aimed to enhance multi-class lung condition detection in portable chest X-rays by combining static texture features with dynamic deep learning features extracted from a pre-trained VGG-16 model. To optimize performance, preprocessing, data imbalance, and hyperparameter tuning were meticulously addressed. The proposed ESN-MDFS model achieved a peak accuracy of 96.18% with an AUC of 1.00 in a six-fold cross-validation. Our findings demonstrate the model’s superior ability to differentiate between COVID-19, bacterial pneumonia, viral pneumonia, and normal conditions, promising significant advancements in diagnostic accuracy and efficiency.
Evolutionary origins of temporal discounting: Modeling how time and uncertainty constrain optimal decision-making strategies across taxa
Authors: Villmoare Brian , Klein David , Liénard Pierre , McHale Timothy S.
Published: November 2024

The propensity of humans and non-human animals to discount future returns for short-term benefits is well established. This contrasts with the ability of organisms to unfold complex developmental sequences over months or years efficiently. Research has focused on various descriptive and predictive parameters of ‘temporal discounting’ in behavior, and researchers have proposed models to explain temporal preference in terms of fitness-maximizing outcomes. Still, the underlying ultimate cause of this phenomenon has not been deeply explored across taxa. Here, we propose an ultimate (i.e., evolutionary) causal explanation for the selection of temporal discounting largely conserved across taxa. We propose that preference for a short-term reward (e.g., heightened impulsivity) often is less than optimal and likely is the product of constraints imposed on natural selection with respect to predicting events in a temporal framework in the context of future uncertainty. Using a simple Newtonian model for time across a fitness landscape in which movement by organisms is only possible in one direction, we examine several factors that influence the ability of an organism to choose a distant reward over a more temporally proximate reward: including the temporal distance of the far reward, the relative value of the distant reward, and the effect of uncertainty about the value and presence of the distant reward. Our results indicate that an organism may choose a more distant reward, but only if it is not too far into the future and has a substantially higher-value fitness payoff relative to the short-term reward. Notably, any uncertainty about the distant reward made it extremely unlikely for an organism to choose the delayed reward strategy compared to choosing a closer reward, even if the distant reward had a much higher payoff because events that are uncertain are only partially visible to natural selection pressures. The results help explain why natural selection is constrained to promote more optimal behavioral strategies and why it has difficulty selecting a distant reward over a lower-value short-term reward. The degree of uncertainty is an especially salient ecological variable in promoting and preferencing short-term behavioral strategies across taxa. These results further help illustrate why, from an ultimate causal perspective, human and non-human taxa have difficulty making more optimal long-term decisions.
Using a length-weight relationship based on wild lumpfish (Cyclopterus lumpus L.) for estimation of body condition of lumpfish in salmon cages
Authors: Østerø Sandra Ljósá , Di Toro Jessica , í Homrum Eydna , Patursson Esbern J. , Eliasen Kirstin
Published: November 2024

The use of lumpfish (Cyclopterus lumpus L.) as cleaner fish in Atlantic salmon aquaculture has emerged as a promising solution to combat the issue of sea lice infestation, as they have proven effective under the right conditions. The aquaculture industry, however, is facing challenges in ensuring the welfare and survival of lumpfish in salmon cages. Part of the welfare monitoring of lumpfish is the estimation of body condition. Previous research on standard length-weight relationships for lumpfish has primarily relied on the growth patterns of lumpfish in salmon cages, which might not align with the natural growth patterns of the fish. In this study, we argue for another perspective: using the standard weight of wild lumpfish to estimate the body condition of lumpfish in salmon cages. We assert that this approach aligns more closely with the natural growth pattern of the fish and may offer a more accurate representation of their condition. Our findings show significant differences in growth patterns between wild lumpfish, which show positive allometric growth, and those in salmon cages, which show slightly negative allometric growth. The findings underscore the importance of using appropriate length-weight relationships for lumpfish in aquaculture to ensure an accurate assessment of their body condition.
In the eye and mind of the beholder: The effects of familiarisation on the perception of atypical infant facial configurations
Authors: Hunt Benjamin W. , De Pascalis Leonardo
Published: November 2024

Perception of infant faces plays a crucial role in adult-infant caretaking behaviour, with adults being found to demonstrate a reliable attraction towards infant faces over other stimuli. When affected by a congenital facial malformation such as cleft lip and/or palate, however, adults’ visual scanning patterns and subjective appraisal of these faces have been found to be adversely affected. Little past work has explored how an observer’s prior experience with this specific malformation might play a role in the perception of cleft-affected infant faces. To this end, two groups of adult female participants were recruited and presented with 48 images of infant faces (24 typical, 24 cleft-affected) with one group subjected to novel, purpose-built familiarisation training, where participants were exposed to infant cleft lip/palate related visual and informational stimuli prior to testing (n = 43). Eye gaze patterns and subjective “cuteness” ratings from this group were compared with an age matched control group which received no training (n = 41). No between group differences were found for “cuteness” ratings or eye gaze patterns to the cleft-affected mouth area in isolation, however, a significant negative relationship was found between gaze duration to the mouth region of cleft-affected images and subjective “cuteness” ratings, for control participants only. Notably, this relationship was not observed for the familiarised participants, suggesting their modified prior experience attenuated the effect that visual processing had on subjective appraisal of cleft-affected faces, when these two factors were assessed in tandem. Our findings suggest it is possible to attenuate the typically observed aversive behaviour towards cleft-affected infant faces. This may have implications for clinical practice concerned with supporting adult caretaking of malformation-affected infants and policies related to increasing positive perception of congenital facial disfigurement.
External validation of a modified cardiovascular sequential organ failure assessment score in patients with suspected infection using the MIMIC-IV database
Authors: Hwang Sung Yeon , Kim Inkyu , Ko Byuk Sung , Ryoo Seung Mok , Han Eunah , Lee Hui Jai , Jeong Daun , Shin Tae Gun , Kim Kyuseok ,   on behalf of the Korean Shock Society
Published: November 2024

We developed a modified cardiovascular (CV) Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score using an emergency department-based cohort data, incorporating norepinephrine equivalent dose and lactate to represent current clinical practice patterns for vasopressor utilization and the diagnostic significance of lactate, respectively. In this study, we sought to validate this modified CV-SOFA score in intensive care unit patients with suspected infection using the Marketplace for Medical Information in Intensive Care (MIMIC)-IV database. This was a retrospective study that utilized data from the MIMIC-IV database. Modified CV/total SOFA score and original CV/total SOFA score were compared for predicting in-hospital mortality. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) and the calibration curve were employed to evaluate discrimination and calibration, respectively. A total of 29,618 ICU patients with suspected infections was analyzed. The in-hospital mortality rate was 12.4% (n = 3,675). Modified CV-SOFA score (AUROC 0.667; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.657–0.677 vs. 0.663; 95% CI 0.654–0.673; p = 0.283) and modified total SOFA score (0.784 [95% CI 0.776–0.793] vs. 0.785 [95% CI 0.777–0.793], p = 0.490) did not differ significantly from the original CV-SOFA score and original total SOFA score, respectively. The calibration curve of the original CV-SOFA score was inferior to that of the modified CV-SOFA score. The modified CV- and total SOFA scores were better calibrated than the original CV- and total SOFA scores, but their discriminative performance was not significantly different. Further studies of the modified CV-SOFA score in different settings and populations are required to assess the generalizability of this score.
Consensus on maturity-related injury risks and prevention in youth soccer: A Delphi study
Authors: Sullivan Joseph , Roberts Simon , Enright Kevin , Littlewood Martin , Johnson David , Hartley David
Published: November 2024

The aim of this study was to achieve consensus from leading sport and exercise science practitioners in professional soccer academies surrounding (i) motivations for maturity-related data collection (ii) maturity-related injury risk factors (iii) how maturity-related data informs injury prevention practices and (iv) the use of bio-banding as an alternative injury prevention strategy. The study adopted an iterative three round online Delphi method, where a series of statements were rated by expert panellists. Consensus agreement was set at ≥70% for all statements. Nine panellists participated in all three rounds (69% response rate). Consensus was achieved for a total of sixteen statements. Panellists agreed that the period during and 12-months post peak height velocity, muscle strength/flexibility imbalances and maturity status (% predicted adult height) as the most important maturity-related injury risk factors. Panellists also agreed that maturity-related data collection is important for injury prevention as well as physical and performance-related purposes, but not for recruitment or retain/release purposes. It was also evident that variability and misunderstanding of key language terms used within the growth and maturation literature exists. It was agreed that practitioners who are responsible for conducting maturational assessments require additional training/education to enhance their application, delivery and outcomes. The findings indicate that maturity-related data collection is part of a multidisciplinary process, dedicated towards the long-term development of players. Greater training and education are required along with increased dissemination of research findings surrounding the full uses for bio-banding. This study provides guidance on maturity-related injury risks and prevention in youth soccer for practitioners.
Improved emergency activation in interventional radiology reduces procedure delay and facilitates treatment success in patients with acute arterial bleedings
Authors: Nadjiri Jonathan , Mühlmann Marc , Waggershauser Tobias , Geith Tobias , Paprottka Philipp M.
Published: November 2024

Background

Research of interventional treatment success in arterial bleeding cases is almost exclusively focused on technical and procedural factors. This study investigates the effect of an improved preprocedural activation algorithm for acute arterial bleedings treated by interventional radiology.

Methods

During the three-year study period (2018–2021), the authors implemented an always-reachable, simple-to-remember emergency phone number routed to the responsible interventional radiologist on call and compared this pathway to the previous activation process. Data were acquired for all emergency cases with active arterial bleeding detected in CT scans and the diagnosis to treatment intervals before and after implementation were retrospectively analysed. Time signatures in CT and angiography were used to determine the interval.

Results

1322 calls or contacts occurred during the study period. In general, 625 emergency procedures were conducted; 120 bleeding interventions met the study requirements. In the study 44 patients were treated via the conventional pathway and 76 via the emergency phone activation. The activation algorithm utilizing the emergency phone led to a slight decrease in radiation doses and fluoroscopy time and a significant reduction (15min) in diagnosis to treatment intervals (p = 0.019). After implementing the emergency phone, the technical success rate increased significantly from 68% to 94% (p<0.001).

Conclusions

This study shows that effective communication structures, such as implementing a standardized activation pathway via an emergency phone, can significantly reduce diagnosis to treatment intervals and increase technical success rates. Effective communication is crucial for interventional radiology to deal with acute and life-threatening conditions requiring immediate treatment. This study presents a possible improvement and provides valuable insight for interventional radiology clinics seeking to optimize their communication and management strategies for emergency cases.
Varus-valgus native knee laxity in extension displays an almost rectangular pattern and does not correlate with lower limb alignment
Authors: Akagawa Manabu , Saito Hidetomo , Takahashi Yasuhiro , Tsukamoto Hiroaki , Abe Kazunobu , Iwamoto Yosuke , Yoshikawa Takayuki , Abe Toshiki , Kijima Hiroaki , Kasukawa Yuji , Nozaka Koji , Miyakoshi Naohisa
Published: November 2024

Optimal ligament balance is crucial for successful total knee arthroplasty (TKA), which is a standard procedure for managing end-stage knee osteoarthritis. However, the reported values of ligament balance vary due to different methodologies and population differences, which requires further studies. This study aimed to investigate the varus-valgus ligament balance in healthy knees of Japanese individuals and its relationship with lower limb alignment. The studyanalyzed64 knees from 33 healthy young adults using stress radiographs to measure varus-valgus laxity. The mechanical hip-knee-ankle angle, medial proximal tibial angle, and lateral distal femoral angles were determined using digital long-leg radiographs. Varus and valgus laxities were compared, and the relationship between ligament balance and alignment parameters was analyzed. Mean varus laxity (3.6°± 1.3°) was significantly greater than mean valgus laxity(2.9°± 1.0°) (p<0.0001). No significant association was observed between ligament balance and alignment parameters. Healthy knees of Japanese individuals exhibited slightly greater varus laxity (0.7°) than valgus laxity, with no correlation observed between ligament balance and lower limb alignment. The finding underscores the importance of recognizing alignment diversity while noting that alignment does not influence ligament balance; this is particularly relevant in modern TKA techniques focusing on patient-specific joint and ligament reconstructions. The study’s findings could help formulate strategies benefiting knee osteoarthritis management.
Cost-effectiveness of midomafetamine-assisted therapy (MDMA-AT) in chronic and treatment-resistant post-traumatic stress disorder of moderate or higher severity: A health-economic model
Authors: Stanicic Filip , Zah Vladimir , Grbic Dimitrije , De Angelo Debra
Published: November 2024

Objective

To explore the cost-effectiveness of midomafetamine-assisted therapy (MDMA-AT) compared to placebo with therapy (PT) in US healthcare settings.

Methods

A health state-transition model was used to analyze the cost-effectiveness of MDMA-AT for treating patients with chronic PTSD of moderate or higher severity. Both treatment arms consisted of 3 preparation (90-min), 3 interventional (8-h), and 9 integration (90-min) sessions, lasting ~4 months total. All sessions included psychotherapy, with interventional also including MDMA or placebo. After receiving treatment, patients were distributed across health states of No PTSD (not meeting PTSD diagnostic criteria), Non-Severe PTSD (treatment responders), Severe PTSD (treatment non-responders), and death. Each state had unique healthcare costs and utilities sourced from real-world data analysis and patient data from MDMA-AT clinical trials (including long-term follow-up). The base-case analysis considered the payer’s perspective with a 5-year horizon, 3.5% annual cost and effect discounts, and an assumed MDMA medication price of $12,000 per session. Trial-derived utilities and US life tables mortality data were used to calculate quality-adjusted life years (QALY). The main outcome was an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) with a $150,000 willingness-to-pay (WTP) threshold.

Results

The base-case ICER was $83,845 per QALY. Total direct costs were $64,745 in the MDMA-AT and $33,132 in the PT arms ($31,613 increment). The costs of intervention were $48,376 for MDMA-AT and $12,376 for PT. The highest MDMA medication cost to fit under the WTP threshold was $20,314 per session. Costs related to PTSD healthcare visits and other PTSD treatments were lower with MDMA-AT than PT (-$2,511 and -$1,877 increments, respectively). Utility benefits were higher in MDMA-AT than PT, with 3.691 and 3.314 QALYs generated over 5 years, respectively (0.377 QALY increment).

Conclusion

These data suggest MDMA-AT may be a cost-effective treatment compared to PT for patients with chronic PTSD of moderate or higher severity.
Policy rhetoric, realities, and burdens: Using critical policy analysis to center at-promise student success in the McNair program
Authors: Hutcherson Nathan , Muñiz Raquel
Published: November 2024

Educational policies designed to benefit students from first-generation, low-income, and racially minoritized backgrounds do not always consider the realities these students experience during college. Instead, students participating in compensatory education programs can endure further marginalization. Using critical policy analysis’ core tenets as guiding principles to frame our study and guide our analysis, we conducted a three-phase qualitative analytic study. We examined interviews with students and McNair program policy documents to interrogate policymakers’ hidden assumptions and the (de)centering of minoritized student perspectives in the McNair program policy. Students in the program discussed varied and conflicting definitions of success, such as learning they did not want to attend graduate school—a primary goal and measure of success for the federal government. They also highlighted advisors as a source of support. By centering the experiences of students, our findings highlight this critical gap and draw attention to the administrative burdens placed on at-promise students, emphasize the need for holistic socio-emotional support in federal policy, and underscore the powerful role of supportive faculty and staff.