bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High muscular fitness level may positively affect bone strength and body composition in children with overweight and obesity
Authors: Comeras-Chueca Cristina , Villalba-Heredia Lorena , Lozano-Berges Gabriel , Matute-Llorente Ángel , Marín-Puyalto Jorge , Vicente-Rodríguez Germán , Casajús José A. , González-Agüero Alejandro
Published: June 2024

Muscular fitness plays a major role in bone health and body composition in overweight and obese children. It is key that the development of this muscle fitness is affected by absolute isometric strength and dynamic strength.

Purpose

To compare bone health and body composition between overweight/obese children considering muscular fitness (MF) levels, and to investigate whether weight-bearing dynamic or absolute isometric strength, both involved in the development of this muscular fitness, are more related with bone health.

Methods

MF of 59 overweight or obese children (10.1 ± 0.9 years, 27 females) was measured by a countermovement jump (CMJ), handgrip, and maximal isometric strength of knee extension. Participants were divided into four groups depending on their MF level performing a cluster analysis: 16 children with high MF (HMF) in all tests, 18 with high performance in isometric strength (HIS), 15 with high performance in CMJ (HCMJ) and 10 low isometric and low dynamic force values (LMF). Body composition values were measured by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry, and bone strength values were assessed by peripheral quantitative computed tomography. Motor skills were evaluated using TGMD-3. Multivariate analysis of covariance test was applied to analyse bone strength differences between children in the different MF groups, using maturity offset, height and weight as covariates, and correlations were investigated.

Results

HMF excelled in bone health. HIS had higher cortical bone area, periosteal circumference, bone mass, polar strength strain index and fracture load than LMF, while HCMJ only showed better results in trabecular bone area than LMF. HMF had significantly better values of fracture load and periosteal and endosteal circumferences than HCMJ, but not than HIS.

Conclusions

High MF level shows positive effects on bone health in overweight/obese children. Those with highest isometric strength had better bone health compared to those with higher dynamic strength.

Trial registration

The research project was registered in a public database Clinicaltrials.gov in June 2020 with the identification number NCT04418713.
Computational Linear and Nonlinear Free Vibration Analyses of Micro/Nanoscale Composite Plate-Type Structures With/Without Considering Size Dependency Effect: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Al Mahmoud Zummurd , Safaei Babak , Sahmani Saeid , Asmael Mohammed , Setoodeh AliReza
Published: June 2024

Recently, the mechanical performance of various mechanical, electrical, and civil structures, including static and dynamic analysis, has been widely studied. Due to the neuroma's advanced technology in various engineering fields and applications, developing small-size structures has become highly demanded for several structural geometries. One of the most important is the nano/micro-plate structure. However, the essential nature of highly lightweight material with extraordinary mechanical, electrical, physical, and material characterizations makes researchers more interested in developing composite/laminated-composite-plate structures. To comprehend the dynamical behavior, precisely the linear/nonlinear-free vibrational responses, and to represent the enhancement of several parameters such as nonlocal, geometry, boundary condition parameters, etc., on the free vibrational performance at nano/micro scale size, it is revealed that to employ all various parameters into various mathematical equations and to solve the defined governing equations by analytical, numerical, high order, and mixed solutions. Thus, the presented literature review is considered the first work focused on investigating the linear/nonlinear free vibrational behavior of plates on a small scale and the impact of various parameters on both dimensional/dimensionless natural/fundamental frequency and Eigen-value. The literature is classified based on solution type and with/without considering the size dependency effect. As a key finding, most research in the literature implemented analytical or numerical solutions. The drawback of classical plate theory can be overcome by utilizing and developing the elasticity theories. The nonlocality, weight fraction of porosity, or the reinforcements, and its distribution type of elastic foundation significantly influence the frequencies.
Durable Effect of Acupuncture for Chronic Neck Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Fang Jiufei , Shi Hangyu , Wang Weiming , Chen He , Yang Min , Gao Shuai , Yao Hao , Zhu Lili , Yan Yan , Liu Zhishun
Published: June 2024

Objective

Chronic neck pain, a prevalent health concern characterized by frequent recurrence, requires exploration of treatment modalities that provide sustained relief. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the durable effects of acupuncture on chronic neck pain.

Methods

We conducted a literature search up to March 2024 in six databases, including PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library, encompassing both English and Chinese language publications. The main focus of evaluation included pain severity, functional disability, and quality of life, assessed at least 3 months post-acupuncture treatment. The risk of bias assessment was conducted using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0 tool, and meta-analyses were performed where applicable.

Results

Eighteen randomized controlled trials were included in the analysis. Acupuncture as an adjunct therapy could provide sustained pain relief at three (SMD: − 0.79; 95% CI − 1.13 to − 0.46; p < 0.01) and six (MD: − 18.13; 95% CI − 30.18 to − 6.07; p < 0.01) months post-treatment. Compared to sham acupuncture, acupuncture did not show a statistically significant difference in pain alleviation (MD: − 0.12; 95% CI − 0.06 to 0.36; p = 0.63). However, it significantly improved functional outcomes as evidenced by Northwick Park Neck Pain Questionnaire scores 3 months post-treatment (MD: − 6.06; 95% CI − 8.20 to − 3.92; p < 0.01). Although nine studies reported an 8.5%–13.8% probability of adverse events, these were mild and transitory adverse events.

Conclusion

Acupuncture as an adjunct therapy may provide post-treatment pain relief lasting at least 3 months for patients with chronic neck pain, although it is not superior to sham acupuncture, shows sustained efficacy in improving functional impairment for over 3 months, with a good safety profile.
Impact of an Injectable Trace Mineral Supplement on the Immune Response and Outcome of Mannheimia haemolytica Infection in Feedlot Cattle
Authors: Hong Suyeon , Rients Emma L. , Franco Carlos E. , Hansen Stephanie L. , McGill Jodi L.
Published: June 2024

The study aimed to assess the impact of injectable trace mineral (“ITM”; Multimin90; Fort Collins, CO) supplementation on bacterial infection in cattle. Angus-crossbred steers (n = 32) were organized into two blocks by initial body weight. Steers were maintained on a ryelage and dry-rolled corn-based growing diet without supplementation of Zn, Cu, Mn, and Se for the duration of the study. The steers were transported 6 h, then randomized into three treatment groups: control received sterile saline (“CON”), ITM administered 1 day after transport (6 days before infection, “ITMPRE”), and ITM administered 2 days post infection (dpi) concurrent with antibiotic treatment (“ITMPOST”). Steers were infected with Mannheimia haemolytica on day 0, and all were treated with tulathromycin at 2 dpi. Plasma levels of Zn, Cu, and Se did not differ among treatments (P ≥ 0.74). Liver Se was higher in ITMPRE at 2 dpi (P < 0.05), and both ITM groups had higher liver Se at 5 dpi (P < 0.05) compared to CON. A time × treatment interaction was detected for liver Cu (P = 0.02). Clinical scores were lower (P < 0.05) in ITMPRE on 1 and 8 dpi and ITMPOST on 8 dpi compared to CON. Thoracic ultrasonography scores were lower in ITMPRE at 2 dpi compared to CON (P < 0.05) and ITMPOST (P < 0.1). No treatment effects (P > 0.10) were observed for bacterial detection from bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) or nasopharyngeal swabs. At 5 dpi, both ITMPRE and ITMPOST showed higher frequencies of γδ T cells and NK cells in BAL compared to CON (P < 0.05). Before infection, leukocytes from ITMPRE steers produced more IL-6 (P < 0.01) in response to stimulation with the TLR agonist, Pam3CSK4. Use of ITM may be an effective strategy for improving disease resistance in feedlot cattle facing health challenges.
Novel protective circulating miRNA are associated with preserved vitamin D levels in patients with mild COVID-19 presentation at hospital admission not progressing into severe disease
Authors: di Filippo Luigi , Terenzi Umberto , Di Ienno Giovanni , Trasciatti Silvia , Bonaretti Silvano , Giustina Andrea
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Low vitamin D levels were reported to negatively influence the outcomes of acute COVID-19, as well as other biochemical markers were linked to COVID-19, including microRNAs (miRNAs). This study aimed to prospectively evaluate miRNAs and vitamin D relationship in predicting COVID-19 outcomes.

Methods

COVID-19 patients were part of a previously reported cohort and enrolled in a matched-ratio based on the presence/or not of severe disease at hospital admission. 25(OH) vitamin D levels and miRNAs expression were evaluated.

Results

Patients affected by non-severe COVID-19 were characterized by a higher expression of miRNAs hsa-miR-3115 and hsa-miR-7151-3p, as compared to those affected by severe disease. In non-severe patients, these miRNAs were more frequently expressed in those who subsequently did not develop worsening outcomes. In addition, patients with miRNA-7151 expression and without worsening disease were characterized by higher 25(OH) vitamin D levels and lower prevalence of vitamin D deficiency.

Conclusions

The expression of two novel miRNAs was reported for the first-time to be associated with a less severe COVID-19 form and to prospectively predict the occurrence of disease outcome. Furthermore, the association observed between vitamin D deficiency and lack of miRNA-7151 expression in COVID-19 patients with worse outcomes may support the hypothesis that the co-existence of these two conditions may have a strong negative prognostic role.
Cryoablation and Breast Disease
Authors: Kopicky Lauren M. , Pratt Debra A.
Published: June 2024

Purpose of review

Alternatives to surgical management of breast disease is desired by patients wishing to avoid an operation or those who are not a candidate for surgery. The role of cryoablation for treatment of benign and malignant tumors is reviewed to determine optimal candidacy.

Recent findings

Cryoablation is safe, effective, and well tolerated by patients. Cryoablation is being increasingly utilized to treat a subset of patients with primary breast cancer and is most effective when treating small lesions without extensive intraductal component. Combination with immunotherapy can enhance response to treatment.

Further studies are needed to determine if cryoablation is sufficient as de-escalation of other adjuvant treatments continues for patients with early-stage breast cancer. Combination of cryoablation with immunotherapy or treating the primary tumor in the presence of metastatic disease may optimize systemic therapies and patient outcomes.
The roughness of fracture surfaces and its scale dependence – a methodological study based on natural fractures in sandstones from Southern Germany
Authors: Houben Georg , Weitkamp Axel , Kaufhold Stephan
Published: June 2024

The study of groundwater flow in fractured aquifers is an important part of hydrogeology. Main parameters that influence the flow rate and velocity in fractures are their number and connectivity but especially their opening width (aperture). The roughness of fractures also has an important influence, as it locally modifies both aperture and flow patterns. However, it is seldom measured, not fully understood and, therefore, often not included into calculations. The present study focuses on methodological aspects and investigates the roughness and composition of weathered fracture surfaces from Triassic Bunter Sandstone samples from Southern Germany. Such weathered surfaces have received little attention so far. For the first time, different mechanical and optical methods were used and compared. Results show a clear scale dependency, indicating a fractal, self-affine nature, despite several different methods being used. This confirms that all methods provide useful data. .
New horizons in gynecological surgery: first-year experience with HUGO™ robotic-assisted surgery system at two tertiary referral robotic centers
Authors: Afonina Margarita , Collà Ruvolo Claudia , Gaia Giorgia , Paciotti Marco , Leva Giovanni , Marconi Anna Maria , Traen Koen , Mottrie Alexandre
Published: June 2024

The HUGO™ robotic-assisted surgery system (RAS, Medtronic, CA) consists of a 3D open console, four independent carts, and an integrated laparoscopic and robotic tower. Approved in 2021, it represents a novel alternative platform for robotic procedures. The aim of our study is to report the first-year experience with this system for gynecological procedures at two tertiary referral robotic centers. We prospectively collected and retrospectively analyzed data from patients underwent gynecological robot-assisted surgery with the HUGO™ RAS, at San Paolo University Hospital (Milan, Italy), and Onze Lieve Vrouw (OLV) Hospital (Aalst, Belgium), March 2022–April 2023. Demographic characteristics, intraoperative settings, and perioperative outcomes were investigated. A total of 32 procedures were performed: 20 (62.5%) hysterectomies, 7 (21.9%) adnexal surgeries, and 5 (15.6%) pelvic floor reconstructive surgeries. In 2022 and 2023, 13 (40.6%) and 19 (59.4%) procedures were carried out, respectively. The median docking time was 8 min (IQR 5.8–11.5). The median console and skin-to-skin time was 52.5 min (IQR 33.8–94.2) and 108.5 min (IQR 81.5–157.2), respectively. No intraoperative complications occurred. Two conversions to laparoscopy managed without any additional complications were needed. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first global series of gynecological procedures performed with the HUGO™ RAS. Our preliminary findings showed the system’s feasibility reporting promising results. The observed upward trend in the total number of procedures during the analyzed period is encouraging. Further studies are needed to assess a standardized method in the gynecological field with the novel platform.
Defining Digital Authoritarianism
Authors: Pearson James S.
Published: June 2024

It is becoming increasingly common for authoritarian regimes to leverage digital technologies to surveil, repress and manipulate their citizens. Experts typically refer to this practice as digital authoritarianism (DA). Existing definitions of DA consistently presuppose a politically repressive agent intentionally exploiting digital technologies to pursue authoritarian ends. I refer to this as the intention-based definition. This paper argues that this definition is untenable as a general description of DA. I begin by illustrating the current predominance of the intention-based definition (Section 2). Section 3 then presents four counterexamples to this definition: benign surveillance; digital sovereignty; attention-harvesting algorithms; and tech-induced loneliness. In each case, we witness authoritarianism being promoted by digital technologies without any evidence of this being intentionally caused by politically repressive agents. Based on these observations, I contend that the intention-based definition is underinclusive and is therefore unsustainable. Section 4 outlines an improved definition of DA – what I call the promotion-based definition. Since this more expansive definition does not posit intentional, politically repressive agency as a precondition of DA, it can accommodate the counterexamples discussed in Section 3. Moreover, it enables us to catch a broader spectrum of cases of DA, such as tech-induced loneliness, which those adhering to the intention-based definition are prone to overlook. After outlining further practical benefits of the promotion-based definition, I argue that we still need to distinguish between intentional and unintentional forms of DA since they call for distinct types of remedial action.
Buffered Oxide Etch: A Safer, More Effective Etchant for Additively Manufactured Ti-Alloys
Authors: Dumbre Jayshri , Tong Zherui , Dong Dashen , Qiu Dong , Easton Mark
Published: June 2024

Kroll’s reagent is effective for the metallographic etching of traditional Ti-alloys but struggles with the intricate, refined microstructures of newer Ti-alloy compositions like Ti-Cu and Ti-Mo alloys, which are created through additive manufacturing. The presence of fine intermetallic compounds in these alloys results in limited contrast between grains and phases when using Kroll’s reagent, highlighting the need for an alternative etchant. This study systematically investigates the use of buffered oxide etch, a common etchant for micro-electronics, on a range of additively manufactured Ti-alloys. The results show that buffered oxide etch provides superior etching outcomes compared to Kroll’s reagent and ammonium bifluoride, with a clear colour contrast between grains and fine phases. Furthermore, ammonium bifluoride with an F− ion concentration similar to 40% buffered oxide etch (5.60 mmol/ml) is found to reveal microstructural details effectively. These findings suggest that the buffered oxide etch is a reliable tint etchant for additively manufactured Ti-alloys, and could potentially be used to etch other additively manufactured alloy systems for metallographic studies. Both these etchants supply F− ions without the low pH, significantly improving safety by removing the need for HF in the etching process.
In Search of a Modus Operandi for Evaluation: Developing a Mixed-Methods Approach for Crisis Team Exercises
Authors: Schütte Patricia M. , Bach Sylvia
Published: June 2024

In recent years, there has been an increase in critical situations such as crisis and disasters in Germany. Due to the country's low-crisis history and the predominance of blue-light organizations like the police and fire departments in managing disasters, these circumstances affect other organizations, such as public administrations, that have had less contact with crisis management, sometimes unexpectedly. This is illustrated by examples such as the refugee situation in 2015/2016 and the COVID-19 pandemic. One way to prepare is through exercises in crisis management and, more specifically, staff work. The demand for these therefore also seems to be increasing in administrations. This article presents an evaluation approach for such exercises based on an example of a staff exercise in Germany. It describes the developed evaluation approach, discusses some exemplary results in relation to the topic of communication and the potential of a partially standardized evaluation. Finally, the article discusses the extent to which a multi-method approach to exercise evaluation, which works with a standard framework but also leaves scope for individual adaptation, contains practical and scientific added values.
MambaNet: A Hybrid Neural Network for Predicting the NBA Playoffs
Authors: Khanmohammadi Reza , Saba-Sadiya Sari , Esfandiarpour Sina , Alhanai Tuka , Ghassemi Mohammad Mahdi
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we present MambaNet: a hybrid neural network for predicting the outcomes of Basketball games. Contrary to other studies, which focus primarily on season games, this study investigates playoff games. MambaNet is a hybrid neural network architecture that processes a time series of teams’ and players’ game statistics and generates the probability of a team winning or losing an NBA playoff match. In our approach, we utilize Feature Imitating Networks to provide latent signal-processing feature representations of game statistics to further process with convolutional, recurrent, and dense neural layers. Three experiments using five different datasets are conducted to evaluate the performance and generalizability of our architecture against a wide range of previous studies. Our final method successfully predicted the AUC from 0.72 to 0.82, beating the best-performing baseline models by a considerable margin.
Algorithm evaluation without autonomy
Authors: Hill Scott
Published: June 2024

In Algorithms & Autonomy, Rubel, Castro, and Pham (hereafter RCP), argue that the concept of autonomy is especially central to understanding important moral problems about algorithms. In particular, autonomy plays a role in analyzing the version of social contract theory that they endorse. I argue that although RCP are largely correct in their diagnosis of what is wrong with the algorithms they consider, those diagnoses can be appropriated by moral theories RCP see as in competition with their autonomy based theory. Most notably, proponents of consequentialism and virtue ethics can appropriate RCPs insights. This is good news because RCP’s social contract theory is vulnerable to a well known class of counterexamples. The most significant contribution of RCP, if I am right, is in their identification, presentation, and evaluation of concrete cases involving algorithms and not in the more controversial claims about theoretical ethics that RCP themselves see as central to what they are doing.
Dissipative Soliton Resonance: Adiabatic Theory and Thermodynamics
Authors: Kalashnikov Vladimir L. , Rudenkov Alexander , Sorokin Evgeni , Sorokina Irina T.
Published: June 2024

We present the adiabatic theory of dissipative solitons (DS) of complex cubic-quintic nonlinear Ginzburg–Landau equation (CQGLE). Solutions in the closed analytical form in the spectral domain have the shape of Rayleigh–Jeans distribution for a positive (normal) dispersion. The DS parametric space forms a two-dimensional (or three-dimensional for the complex quintic nonlinearity) master diagram connecting the DS energy and a universal parameter formed by the ratio of four real and imaginary coefficients for dissipative and non-dissipative terms in CQGLE. The concept of dissipative soliton resonance (DSR) is formulated in terms of the master diagram, and the main signatures of transition to DSR are demonstrated and experimentally verified. We show a close analogy between DS and incoherent (semicoherent) solitons with an ensemble of quasi-particles confined by a collective potential. It allows applying the thermodynamical approach to DS and deriving the conditions for the DS energy scalability.
Assessment of maize-cowpea intercropping response to row orientation in diverse agro-ecologies of Côte d'Ivoire
Authors: Coulibaly Yaya Nadiala , Tondoh Ebagnerin Jérôme , Bonny Béket Séverin , Neya Bouma James , Koffi Kouamé Kevin , Bi Irié Arsène Zoro
Published: June 2024

The stability of cropping systems in a changing climate context depends on numerous factors, including row orientation, to optimize the use of environmental resources. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of agricultural systems based on the row orientation of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) and maize (Zea mays) in three different ecological conditions in Côte d’Ivoire, in 2020 and 2021. An experimental design with plots divided into three complete randomized blocks with six subplots per block and three repetitions was set up, varying the row orientation in intercropping and monoculture. Row orientation, cropping system used, and ecological zone significantly influenced crop yield and its components. In intercropping, cowpea (tiligré) showed the best yields when oriented North–South (NS) in the tropical rainforest zone and the sub-Sudanian savannah, while East–West (EW) orientation was optimal in the forest-savannah mosaic zone. In contrast, maize (GMRP18) yielded the best in intercropping when rows were oriented East–West, regardless of the season. In monoculture, cowpea yielded best when oriented EW in the tropical rainforest zone (488.17 kg ha−1) and in the forest-savannah mosaic zone (1262.12 kg ha−1), while NS orientations were preferable (228.6 and 259.54 kg ha−1) in the sub-Sudanian savannah zone. For maize monoculture, EW orientation was also preferable. Throughout the study, for both seasons, the highest yield advantages in maize-cowpea intercropping were obtained in EW orientation, regardless of the ecological zone. Overall, the forest-savannah mosaic zone yielded the best cowpea yields (1262.12 and 663.9 kg ha−1).
Revolutionizing Indian agriculture: the imperative of advanced biofertilizer technologies for sustainability
Authors: Kumar Ajay , Saharan Baljeet Singh , Parshad Jagdish , Gera Rajesh , Choudhary Jairam , Yadav Rajbala
Published: June 2024

The continuous growth of the world’s population and the escalating demand for food raise serious concerns about the future of agriculture. According to FAO’s estimates, agricultural product demand is expected to rise by 60% by 2030. However, the increasing use of chemical fertilizers has shown adverse effects on the environment and living organisms. In this context, biofertilizers offer a promising alternative to hazardous chemicals, supporting agricultural sustainability. Biofertilizers are known for their eco-friendly, non-toxic, and cost-effective nature, contributing to soil health, structure, and biodiversity preservation. Nevertheless, they face challenges, including poor shelf-life, on-field stability, sensitivity to fluctuating environmental conditions (such as temperature, radiation, and pH), limitations in long-term use, scarcity of beneficial bacterial strains, susceptibility to desiccation, and high required doses for large coverage areas. Commercially available microbe-based biofertilizers have not always met expectations in field conditions due to various reasons. While there have been advancements in biofertilizers to improve efficiency and popularity among farmers, the need to explore next-generation biofertilizers remains essential. This review primarily focuses on advanced and next-generation biofertilizers, such as PGPB (Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria), fungal biofertilizers, nanobiofertilizers, and biofilm biofertilizers, aiming to address these challenges and propel sustainable agriculture forward.

Graphical Abstract
Enhancing visual and plastic education training: a blended learning and flipped classroom approach
Authors: Chust-Pérez Verónica , Esteve-Faubel Rosa Pilar , Aparicio-Flores María Pilar , Esteve-Faubel José María
Published: June 2024

This article explores whether the implementation of the B-Learning (BL) and Flipped Classroom (FC) methodologies, using the ICT tool Edpuzzle, in the mandatory subject of Didactics of Plastic Expression in the Early Childhood Education teacher training programme leads to improvements in their education as future teachers. To address this investigation, two different pedagogical interventions were proposed: Unit 1 (U1), implementing BL, and Unit 2 (U2) through traditional lectures. For the analysis, a qualitative methodology using the focus group technique was employed. The results revealed high satisfaction among students regarding U1, implying that the use of ICT through the implementation of BL and FC methodologies has created a more dynamic and enriching educational environment, thereby enhancing their learning.
Selection criteria for osteoid osteomas/osteoblastoma’s treatment by ablation with radiofrequency needles or high intensity focused ultrasound: our experience
Authors: Spano Giulia , Daffinà Julia , Izzo Antonio , Zugaro Luigi , Di Cesare Ernesto , Barile Antonio , Arrigoni Francesco
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Osteoid Osteomas (OO) and Osteoblastomas (OB) are relatively rare benign bone lesions necessitating effective treatment to alleviate associated pain and functional limitations. Radiofrequency Thermal Ablation (RFA) and Focused Ultrasound (MRgFUS) have emerged as minimally invasive techniques for their management. This study aims to retrospectively evaluate and compare the selection criteria for these two treatments.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 102 cases of OO/OB treated between January 2013 and July 2020. Eight potential factors influencing treatment selection were assessed, including lesion characteristics and proximity to critical structures. Statistical regression using the Wilcoxon test was performed to compare treatment outcomes.

Results

Significant differences were observed between the RFA and MRgFUS groups concerning the proximity of vascular-nervous structures to the lesion (p = 0.001), lesion depth (p < 0.001), nidus size (p < 0.001), and the presence of an acoustic window (p < 0.001). Additionally, lesion depth (p < 0.001), sclerosis (p = 0.03), and nidus size (p = 0.02) were significant factors.

Conclusions

Our findings underscore the importance of considering multiple factors when selecting a treatment modality for OO and OB. While both RFA and MRgFUS offer comparable efficacy, careful assessment of patient-specific features, particularly the presence of an acoustic window and sclerosis, should guide treatment decisions.
Ressourcen aktivieren
Authors: Willutzki Ulrike , Teismann Tobias
Published: June 2024

Das Leben ist eine ziemliche Herausforderung: Schon als Kinder müssen wir uns die Welt erobern und uns immer wieder aufrappeln. Und leider sind auch im Erwachsenenalter Schwierigkeiten die Regel, wir müssen uns so manches mit viel Ausdauer erarbeiten. Und da dies ein geradezu natürlicher Prozess ist, erleben wir ihn über weite Strecken nicht einmal als mühsam. Wir entwickeln so im Laufe der Zeit mehr oder weniger spielerisch Ressourcen, also Fertigkeiten, Gewohnheiten und Widerstandsfähigkeit bzw. Resilienz. In Zeiten, in denen es uns nicht so gut geht, wir vielleicht sogar verzweifelt sind und uns als unfähig und defizitär erleben, kann es passieren, dass wir die Ressourcen, die eigentlich in unserem „Werkzeugkoffer“ stecken, einfach übersehen und nicht nutzen.
In diesem Ratgeber werden wir uns gemeinsam mit Ihnen auf die Suche nach Ihren Ressourcen begeben. Wir möchten Ihnen Anregungen geben, wie Sie in Ihrem „Werkzeugkoffer“ Dinge entdecken können, die es Ihnen ermöglichen, mit den Widrigkeiten des Lebens umzugehen. In einer kurzen Einführung stellen wir Ihnen einige Forschungsbefunde vor, die unsere ressourcenorientierte Perspektive unterstützen. Anschließend geht es darum, herauszufinden, wofür Sie Ihre Ressourcen und Resilienz einsetzen wollen. Mit Bezug auf Ihre persönlichen Ziele gilt es dann verschiedene Bereiche, z. B. Ihren Alltag, Ihren Umgang mit früheren Krisen, Ihre Sternstunden oder Ihren sozialen Kosmos, genauer zu explorieren. Nicht unwesentlich ist zudem, wie wir mit uns selbst umgehen. Und so werden wir Sie einladen, Mitgefühl mit sich selbst zu haben und zu überlegen, ob und wofür Sie in Ihrem Leben dankbar sein können.
When Job Opportunities Go Up in Smoke
Authors: Corbeil Chantal , Roulin Nicolas , Bhatnagar Namita
Published: June 2024

Abstract: Employment discrimination based on job-unrelated factors (e.g., gender, smoking status) can lead to unfair outcomes for applicants. In the present study, 400 Canadian and US hiring professionals evaluated a candidate’s resume and then cybervetted their social media page which disclosed their gender and smoking status (i.e., cigarette smoker, vaper, or nonsmoker). Revised evaluations post-cybervetting were lower for applicants discovered as smokers and vapers than for nonsmokers, but vapers were perceived as negatively as smokers. Negative evaluations for cigarette smokers depended on raters’ attitudes toward smoking. Applicant gender moderated the effect of vaping but not smoking on evaluations. Managers’ gender role beliefs did not play a moderating role. These findings indicate the need for improvements in cybervetting practices used in hiring.
The Spillover of Tropospheric Ozone Increases Has Hidden the Extent of Stratospheric Ozone Depletion by Halogens
Authors: Prather Michael J.
Published: June 2024

Stratospheric ozone depletion from halocarbons is partly countered by pollution‐driven increases in tropospheric ozone, with transport connecting the two. While recognizing this connection, the ozone assessment's evaluation of observations and processes have often split the chapters at the tropopause boundary. Using a chemistry‐transport model we find that air‐pollution ozone enhancements in the troposphere spill over into the stratosphere at significant rates, that is, 13%–34% of the excess tropospheric burden appears in the lowermost extra‐tropical stratosphere. As we track the anticipated recovery of the observed ozone depletion, we should recognize that two tenths of that recovery may come from the transport of increasing tropospheric ozone into the stratosphere.
South Atlantic Anomaly Evolution Seen by the Proton Flux
Authors: Ginisty F. , Wrobel F. , Ecoffet R. , Mandea M. , Michez A. , Balcon N. , Ruffenach M. , Mekki J.
Published: June 2024

The SEM‐2 (Space Environment Monitor‐2) instrument embedded on the NOAA‐15 Low Earth Orbit satellite provides measurements of trapped protons in the Van Allen inner belt from 1998 to nowadays. This continuous set of measurements enables us to study the dynamics of the South Atlantic Anomaly (SAA) over more than two solar cycles, particularly, its temporal evolution. We observe that the area of the SAA is anti‐correlated with the solar activity. Two physical processes explain this anticorrelation. First, the more the Sun is active the more it disables the cosmic rays to reach the Earth's magnetosphere and fill in the inner radiation belt with protons. Then, when the Sun is more active, the upper atmosphere is warmer and therefore absorbs more protons from the radiation belt. Then, we investigate the protons flux centroid of the SAA. The temporal evolution of its position, latitude and, longitude is studied over the same time interval (1998–2022). We notice that the latitude of the centroid is also anti‐correlated with the solar activity whereas the longitude seems absolutely independent. The temporal evolution of the position of the centroid shows a drift of the SAA. Indeed from 1998 to 2022 the SAA drifted of about 7° West. The SEM‐2 instrument measures flux for protons of different energies (16, 36, 70, and, 140 MeV). For each energy, the SAA dynamic has a similar trend but with different values. These differences are investigated and the results are discussed.
Alantolactone attenuates high-fat diet-induced inflammation and oxidative stress in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Wang Jiong , Jiang Yucheng , Jin Leiming , Qian Chenchen , Zuo Wei , Lin Jianjun , Xie Longteng , Jin Bo , Zhao Yanni , Huang Lijiang , Wang Yi
Published: June 2024

Background

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a chronic disease with an increasing incidence, which can further develop into liver fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma at the end stage. Alantolactone (Ala), a sesquiterpene lactone isolated from Asteraceae, has shown anti-inflammatory effects in different models. However, the therapeutic effect of Ala on NAFLD is not clear.

Methods

C57BL/6 mice were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) to induce NAFLD. After 16 weeks, Ala was administered by gavage to observe its effect on NAFLD. RNA sequencing of liver tissues was performed to investigate the mechanism. In vitro, mouse cell line AML-12 was pretreated with Ala to resist palmitic acid (PA)-induced inflammation, oxidative stress and fibrosis.

Results

Ala significantly inhibited inflammation, fibrosis and oxidative stress in HFD-induced mice, as well as PA-induced AML-12 cells. Mechanistic studies showed that the effect of Ala was related to the induction of Nrf2 and the inhibition of NF-κB. Taken together, these findings suggested that Ala exerted a liver protective effect on NAFLD by blocking inflammation and oxidative stress.

Conclusions

The study found that Ala exerted a liver protective effect on NAFLD by blocking inflammation and oxidative stress, suggesting that Ala is an effective therapy for NAFLD.
High protein intake on later outcomes in preterm children: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Das Subhasish , McClintock Thomas , Cormack Barbara E. , Bloomfield Frank H. , Harding Jane E. , Lin Luling
Published: June 2024

Background

Appropriate protein intake is crucial for growth and development in children born preterm. We assessed the effects of high (HP) versus low protein (LP) intake on neurodevelopment, growth, and biochemical anomalies in these children.

Methods

Randomised and quasi-randomised trials providing protein to children born preterm (<37 completed weeks of gestation) were searched following PRISMA guideline in three databases and four registers (PROSPERO registration CRD42022325659). Random-effects model was used for assessing the effects of HP (≥3.5 g/kg/d) vs. LP (<3.5 g/kg/d).

Results

Data from forty-four studies (n = 5338) showed HP might slightly reduce the chance of survival without neurodisability at ≥12 months (four studies, 1109 children, relative risk [RR] 0.95 [95% CI 0.90, 1.01]; P = 0.13; low certainty evidence) and might increase risk of cognitive impairment at toddler age (two studies; 436 children; RR 1.36 [0.89, 2.09]; P = 0.16; low certainty evidence). At discharge or 36 weeks, HP intake might result in higher weight and greater head circumference z-scores. HP intake probably increased the risk of hypophosphatemia, hypercalcemia, refeeding syndrome and high blood urea, but reduced risk of hyperglycaemia.

Conclusions

HP intake for children born preterm may be harmful for neonatal metabolism and later neurodisability and has few short-term benefits for growth.

Impact statement

Planned high protein intake after birth for infants born preterm might be harmful for survival, neurodisability and metabolism during infancy and did not improve growth after the neonatal period.

Protein intake ≥3.5 g/kg/d should not be recommended for children born preterm.
Delayed spinal arachnoiditis with syringomyelia following aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage: a case report with patient experience
Authors: Jain Nityanand , Jaunozolina Liga , Putraima Inga , Auslands Kaspars , Millers Andrejs
Published: June 2024

Background and importance

Syringomyelia, or the formation of fluid-filled cysts within the spinal cord, associated with delayed spinal arachnoiditis is an uncommon complication of aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage. To date, about 18 cases have been reported in medical literature, with just two reported in patients under the age of 35 years.

Clinical presentation

A 27-year-old female patient complained of sudden, severe headaches in the occipital region, nuchal rigidity, and drowsiness when she presented at our institution. A head computed tomography scan revealed intraventricular bleeding in the lateral and fourth ventricles with more extensive haemorrhaging in the frontal horns. A left posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) aneurysm was confirmed via digital subtraction angiogram, and endovascular embolization was done. Two years later, the patient reported intense pain in the lower back along with symptoms suggestive of spinal cord compression. Spinal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed spinal adhesions from C1 to L4, syringomyelia with some vasogenic oedema extending from T3 to T9 level, and a cyst in the lumbar region. Consequently, a right hemilaminectomy was performed along with microsurgical release of arachnoid adhesions and placement of a subdural drain. Radiological and symptomatic improvements were observed. Since then, the patient’s clinical condition has remained stable during the past three years of follow-up visits.

Conclusions

Literature on optimal treatment modalities and patient prognosis is scarce and debated. The time for symptom improvement depends on the level and extent of spinal cord involvement. Rehabilitation may be required for most patients, as complete symptomatic recovery may not be attainable.
Oculomics analysis in multiple sclerosis: Current ophthalmic clinical and imaging biomarkers
Authors: Suh Alex , Hampel Gilad , Vinjamuri Aditya , Ong Joshua , Kamran Sharif Amit , Waisberg Ethan , Paladugu Phani , Zaman Nasif , Sarker Prithul , Tavakkoli Alireza , Lee Andrew G.
Published: June 2024

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS) characterized by inflammation, demyelination, and axonal damage. Early recognition and treatment are important for preventing or minimizing the long-term effects of the disease. Current gold standard modalities of diagnosis (e.g., CSF and MRI) are invasive and expensive in nature, warranting alternative methods of detection and screening. Oculomics, the interdisciplinary combination of ophthalmology, genetics, and bioinformatics to study the molecular basis of eye diseases, has seen rapid development through various technologies that detect structural, functional, and visual changes in the eye. Ophthalmic biomarkers (e.g., tear composition, retinal nerve fibre layer thickness, saccadic eye movements) are emerging as promising tools for evaluating MS progression. The eye’s structural and embryological similarity to the brain makes it a potentially suitable assessment of neurological and microvascular changes in CNS. In the advent of more powerful machine learning algorithms, oculomics screening modalities such as optical coherence tomography (OCT), eye tracking, and protein analysis become more effective tools aiding in MS diagnosis. Artificial intelligence can analyse larger and more diverse data sets to potentially discover new parameters of pathology for efficiently diagnosing MS before symptom onset. While there is no known cure for MS, the integration of oculomics with current modalities of diagnosis creates a promising future for developing more sensitive, non-invasive, and cost-effective approaches to MS detection and diagnosis.
Retrotransposons in Werner syndrome-derived macrophages trigger type I interferon-dependent inflammation in an atherosclerosis model
Authors: Paul Sudip Kumar , Oshima Motohiko , Patil Ashwini , Sone Masamitsu , Kato Hisaya , Maezawa Yoshiro , Kaneko Hiyori , Fukuyo Masaki , Rahmutulla Bahityar , Ouchi Yasuo , Tsujimura Kyoko , Nakanishi Mahito , Kaneda Atsushi , Iwama Atsushi , Yokote Koutaro , Eto Koji , Takayama Naoya
Published: June 2024

The underlying mechanisms of atherosclerosis, the second leading cause of death among Werner syndrome (WS) patients, are not fully understood. Here, we establish an in vitro co-culture system using macrophages (iMφs), vascular endothelial cells (iVECs), and vascular smooth muscle cells (iVSMCs) derived from induced pluripotent stem cells. In co-culture, WS-iMφs induces endothelial dysfunction in WS-iVECs and characteristics of the synthetic phenotype in WS-iVSMCs. Transcriptomics and open chromatin analysis reveal accelerated activation of type I interferon signaling and reduced chromatin accessibility of several transcriptional binding sites required for cellular homeostasis in WS-iMφs. Furthermore, the H3K9me3 levels show an inverse correlation with retrotransposable elements, and retrotransposable element-derived double-stranded RNA activates the DExH-box helicase 58 (DHX58)-dependent cytoplasmic RNA sensing pathway in WS-iMφs. Conversely, silencing type I interferon signaling in WS-iMφs rescues cell proliferation and suppresses cellular senescence and inflammation. These findings suggest that Mφ-specific inhibition of type I interferon signaling could be targeted to treat atherosclerosis in WS patients.
Revealing principles of autonomous thermal soaring in windy conditions using vulture-inspired deep reinforcement-learning
Authors: Flato Yoav , Harel Roi , Tamar Aviv , Nathan Ran , Beatus Tsevi
Published: June 2024

Thermal soaring, a technique used by birds and gliders to utilize updrafts of hot air, is an appealing model-problem for studying motion control and how it is learned by animals and engineered autonomous systems. Thermal soaring has rich dynamics and nontrivial constraints, yet it uses few control parameters and is becoming experimentally accessible. Following recent developments in applying reinforcement learning methods for training deep neural-network (deep-RL) models to soar autonomously both in simulation and real gliders, here we develop a simulation-based deep-RL system to study the learning process of thermal soaring. We find that this process has learning bottlenecks, we define a new efficiency metric and use it to characterize learning robustness, we compare the learned policy to data from soaring vultures, and find that the neurons of the trained network divide into function clusters that evolve during learning. These results pose thermal soaring as a rich yet tractable model-problem for the learning of motion control.
Sustainable land management enhances ecological and economic multifunctionality under ambient and future climate
Authors: Scherzinger Friedrich , Schädler Martin , Reitz Thomas , Yin Rui , Auge Harald , Merbach Ines , Roscher Christiane , Harpole W Stanley , Blagodatskaya Evgenia , Siebert Julia , Ciobanu Marcel , Marder Fabian , Eisenhauer Nico , Quaas Martin
Published: June 2024

The currently dominant types of land management are threatening the multifunctionality of ecosystems, which is vital for human well-being. Here, we present a novel ecological-economic assessment of how multifunctionality of agroecosystems in Central Germany depends on land-use type and climate. Our analysis includes 14 ecosystem variables in a large-scale field experiment with five different land-use types under two different climate scenarios (ambient and future climate). We consider ecological multifunctionality measures using averaging approaches with different weights, reflecting preferences of four relevant stakeholders based on adapted survey data. Additionally, we propose an economic multifunctionality measure based on the aggregate economic value of ecosystem services. Results show that intensive management and future climate decrease ecological multifunctionality for most scenarios in both grassland and cropland. Only under a weighting based on farmers’ preferences, intensively-managed grassland shows higher multifunctionality than sustainably-managed grassland. The economic multifunctionality measure is about ~1.7 to 1.9 times higher for sustainable, compared to intensive, management for both grassland and cropland. Soil biodiversity correlates positively with ecological multifunctionality and is expected to be one of its drivers. As the currently prevailing land management provides high multifunctionality for farmers, but not for society at large, we suggest to promote and economically incentivise sustainable land management that enhances both ecological and economic multifunctionality, also under future climatic conditions.