bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Paradoxical Modulation of STN β‐Band Activity with Medication Compared to Deep Brain Stimulation
Authors: Hill Meghan E. , Johnson Luke A. , Wang Jing , Escobar Sanabria David , Patriat Rémi , Cooper Scott E. , Park Michael C. , Harel Noam , Vitek Jerrold L. , Aman Joshua E.
Published: October 2023

Background

Excessive subthalamic nucleus (STN) β‐band (13–35 Hz) synchronized oscillations has garnered interest as a biomarker for characterizing disease state and developing adaptive stimulation systems for Parkinson's disease (PD).

Objectives

To report on a patient with abnormal treatment‐responsive modulation in the β‐band.

Methods

We examined STN local field potentials from an externalized deep brain stimulation (DBS) lead while assessing PD motor signs in four conditions (OFF, MEDS, DBS, and MEDS+DBS).

Results

The patient presented here exhibited a paradoxical increase in β power following administration of levodopa and pramipexole (MEDS), but an attenuation in β power during DBS and MEDS+DBS despite clinical improvement of 50% or greater under all three therapeutic conditions.

Conclusions

This case highlights the need for further study on the role of β oscillations in the pathophysiology of PD and the importance of personalized approaches to the development of β or other biomarker‐based DBS closed loop algorithms. © 2023 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Simultaneous creatine and phosphocreatine mapping of skeletal muscle by CEST MRI at 3T
Authors: Ju Licheng , Wang Kexin , Schär Michael , Xu Su , Rogers Joshua , Zhu Dan , Qin Qin , Weiss Robert G. , Xu Jiadi
Published: October 2023

Purpose

To confirm that CrCEST in muscle exhibits a slow‐exchanging process, and to obtain high‐resolution amide, creatine (Cr), and phosphocreatine (PCr) maps of skeletal muscle using a POlynomial and Lorentzian Line‐shape Fitting (PLOF) CEST at 3T.

Methods

We used dynamic changes in PCr/CrCEST of mouse hindlimb before and after euthanasia to assign the Cr and PCr CEST peaks in the Z‐spectrum at 3T and to obtain the optimum saturation parameters. Segmented 3D EPI was employed to obtain multi‐slice amide, PCr, and Cr CEST maps of human skeletal muscle. Subsequently, the PCrCEST maps were calibrated using the PCr concentrations determined by 31P MRS.

Results

A comparison of the Z‐spectra in mouse hindlimb before and after euthanasia indicated that CrCEST is a slow‐exchanging process in muscle (<150.7 s−1). This allowed us to simultaneously extract PCr/CrCEST signals at 3T using the PLOF method. We determined optimal B1 values ranging from 0.3 to 0.6 μT for CrCEST in muscle and 0.3–1.2 μT for PCrCEST. For the study on human calf muscle, we determined an optimum saturation time of 2 s for both PCr/CrCEST (B1 = 0.6 μT). The PCr/CrCEST using 3D EPI were found to be comparable to those obtained using turbo spin echo (TSE). (3D EPI/TSE PCr: (2.6 ± 0.3) %/(2.3 ± 0.1) %; Cr: (1.3 ± 0.1) %/(1.4 ± 0.07) %).

Conclusions

Our study showed that in vivo CrCEST is a slow‐exchanging process. Hence, amide, Cr, and PCr CEST in the skeletal muscle can be mapped simultaneously at 3T by PLOF CEST.
Nitric oxide signaling pathways in the normal and pathological bladder: Do they provide new pharmacological pathways?—ICI‐RS 2023
Authors: Chakrabarty Basu , Winder Michael , Kanai Anthony J. , Hashitani Hikaru , Drake Marcus , Abrams Paul , Fry Christopher H.
Published: October 2023

Aims

The nitric oxide (NO•)/soluble guanylate cyclase/cyclic‐GMP (cGMP) signaling pathway is ubiquitous and regulates several functions in physiological systems as diverse as the vascular, nervous, and renal systems. However, its roles in determining normal and abnormal lower urinary tract functions are unclear. The aim was to identify potential therapeutic targets associated with this pathway to manage lower urinary tract functional disorders.

Methods

This review summarizes a workshop held under the auspices of ICI‐RS with a view to address these questions.

Results

Four areas were addressed: NO• signaling to regulate neurotransmitter release to detrusor smooth muscle; its potential dual roles in alleviating and exacerbating inflammatory pathways; its ability to act as an antifibrotic mediator; and the control by nitrergic nerves of lower urinary tract vascular dynamics and the contractile performance of muscular regions of the bladder wall. Central to much of the discussion was the role of the NO• receptor, soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) in regulating the generation of the enzyme product, the second messenger cGMP. The redox state of sGC is crucial in determining its enzymic activity and the role of a class of novel agents, sGC activators, to optimize activity and to potentially alleviate the consequences of lower urinary tract disorders was highlighted. In addition, the consequences of a functional relationship between nitrergic and sympathetic nerves to regulate vascular dynamics was discussed.

Conclusions

Several potential NO•‐dependent drug targets in the lower urinary tract were identified that provide the basis for future research and translation to clinical trials.
A quality improvement initiative standardizing premedication for blood product transfusions
Authors: Shahid Sanam , Rosenzweig Jaclyn , Troullioud Lucas Alexandre , McThenia Sheila S. , Fong Christina , Degliuomini Melanie D. , Wuest David , Kaicker Shipra , Slotkin Emily K.
Published: October 2023

For children with cancer, blood product transfusions are crucial, but can be complicated by transfusion reactions. To prevent these complications, premedication is often given, although not always evidence‐based. Herein, we describe a significant decrease in the use of premedication (72%–28%) at our institution after the implementation of standardized guidelines, without an increase in transfusion reactions (3.2% prior vs. 1.5% after standardization). Importantly, there were no severe transfusion reactions leading to hospitalization or death. Our results provide evidence in favor of more judicious use of premedication prior to transfusions in patients 21 years and younger being treated for cancer.
Diagnosis, risk factors, and treatment of pediatric benign pneumoperitoneum: A single‐center retrospective study
Authors: Liu Yueyue , Kang Quan , Liu Guobin
Published: October 2023

Pneumoperitoneum is one of the common acute abdominal emergencies that leads to surgical exploration in children, but not all pneumoperitoneum require emergency surgery. This study evaluated the diagnostic methods, predisposing risk factors, and therapeutic options in children with benign pneumoperitoneum for accurate diagnosis and reducing the risk of adverse surgical consequences. A total of 63 cases of pneumoperitoneum diagnosed by the radiographs were involved in this study and were divided into the surgical pneumoperitoneum and benign pneumoperitoneum groups, respectively, from 2009 to 2021. The general information, abdominal signs, laboratory examination, therapies and outcomes, total hospitalization time, and comorbidities were analyzed. Logistic regression analysis assessed the risk factors and protective factors of benign pneumoperitoneum. Promising biomarkers underwent receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Children with surgical pneumoperitoneum were younger than those with nonsurgical pneumoperitoneum in the study. The C‐reactive protein (CRP) level in the surgical pneumoperitoneum group was higher than that in the other group, albumin (ALB) was lower than that in the benign pneumoperitoneum group, and the ratio of ALB to CRP can be used as an effective indicator to predict whether the pneumoperitoneum is benign or whether surgery is needed. Pulmonary injury, pneumonia, and blunt abdominal injury are the major causes in patients with benign pneumoperitoneum. The establishment and management of clinical criteria for the diagnosis of benign pneumoperitoneum in children will be important for the treatment and recovery of children diagnosed with pneumoperitoneum.
Acute kidney injury after living‐related liver transplantation in infants with biliary atresia: A retrospective study
Authors: Liu Wei , Dai Xiaoke , Guo Hongxia , You Chengyan , Du Min , Li Qiu
Published: October 2023

Although acute kidney injury (AKI) is a frequent postoperative complication after liver transplantation, renal function following living‐related liver transplantation (LRLT) in infants remains understudied. The aim of this study was to identify the prevalence of AKI and the impact of AKI on outcomes in infant recipients with biliary atresia. We retrospectively reviewed infants who underwent LRLT surgery between January 2018 and January 2021. The primary outcome was the risk of postoperative AKI occurrence in the first 7 postoperative days. A multivariate regression analysis model was used to investigate risk factors for AKI, and the incidence and impacts of AKI on outcomes were analyzed. A total of 98 patients were included in the analysis. AKI occurred in 59 patients (60.2%) within 7 days after surgery. Logistic regression analysis revealed that preoperative transfusion (p < 0.05) and lower serum creatinine (SCr) (p < 0.05) were independent risk factors for AKI. The incidence of serious complications was significantly higher in the AKI group than in the non‐AKI group (p < 0.05). The postoperative mechanical ventilation time (p < 0.05) and hospital stay (p = 0.019) were significantly longer in the AKI group. There was no evidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in any surviving infants within 1 year after surgery. In conclusion, AKI is common in infant LRLT (60.2%), and preoperative transfusion and lower SCr levels were independently associated with AKI. AKI may be associated with the incidence of serious complications, prolonged use of ventilators, and hospital stays. No CKD occurred within 1 year.
Application of the waiting time distribution in a nationwide screening of real‐world dermatology drug utilization for aberrant use patterns
Authors: Delvin Thomas , Bygum Anette , Lund Lars Christian , Andersen Jacob Harbo , Hallas Jesper
Published: October 2023

Background

Inappropriate use of medicines may have critical consequences from individual, public health, and economic perspectives. Discovering wrongful medicine use may require intentional surveillance or screening.

Objectives

The objectives of this study were to: (i) apply and evaluate the waiting time distribution (WTD) method as a screening tool for identifying aberrant drug use and (ii) evaluate the nationwide use of Dermatology drugs in Denmark for signals of aberrant drug use.

Method

Dermatology drug use data from the Danish nationwide healthcare registries from 2018 to 2020 were used to produce WTDs that were analyzed for drug use patterns. The method provides estimates of the prevalence and incidence and enables estimation of mean treatment duration, drug relapse, and unexpected drug prescribing.

Results

The study included 2 027 889 individual drug users and analyzed 6 141 449 prescriptions. The analysis included approximately 100 dermatology drugs and drug categories and produced 56 WTD drug curves. The WTD patterns and epidemiological estimates confirmed that most drugs are used as intended and revealed few unexpected patterns for further investigation. Three unexpected findings were identified concerning (i) short‐term use that would entail suboptimal clinical efficiency for minoxidil, (ii) sub‐optimal use of topical tacrolimus, and (iii) potential undesirable increase in short‐course doxycycline treatments.

Conclusion

In Denmark, dermatology drugs are predominantly used as expected, with few unexpected use patterns identified. Targeted specific follow‐up on the identified signals is necessary for conclusions about inappropriate use. The findings suggest that the WTD method is applicable for screening for aberrant drug use.
Poly(N‐acryloyl glycinamide) eutectogels
Authors: Xing Shengjie , Zhang Guannan , Zhang Aobo , Chang Zuobang , Guo Ziyu , Dong Anjie , Zhang Jianhua
Published: October 2023

The ever‐growing demand for advanced implantable and wearable electronics has stimulated the development of conductive gels with desirable functions. Hydrogels suffer from poor environmental adaptability. The ionogels prepared by dissolving polymers in ionic liquids have to face the problems of high cost of synthesis and biotoxicity concerns. Recently, eutectogels consisting of various polymer networks in eco‐friendly and cost‐effective deep eutectic solvents (DESs) have emerged as attractive alternatives to overcome the limitations associated with conventional hydrogels and ionogels. In this study, a kind of eutectogels was designed and synthesized through one‐step in situ photopolymerization of N‐acryloyl glycinamide (NAGA) without crosslinkers in low‐cost and biosafe DESs composed of choline chloride and ethylene glycol. The obtained poly(N‐acryloyl glycinamide) (PNAGA) eutectogels exhibit concentration‐dependent and adjustable mechanical properties, high electrical conductivity (about 2 mS cm−1), self‐healing ability as well as good anti‐drying and anti‐freezing properties. PNAGA eutectogels were also demonstrated to serve as conductive gels to construct pressure sensors over a relatively large temperature range. Considering the simple and easy‐to‐scale preparation process and commercially available low‐cost raw materials, favorable flexibility, high ionic conductivity, and wide‐climate tolerance, the PNAGA eutectogels as soft conductive materials have great potential for use in the fabrication of flexible electronics.
The impact of burial depth on Centaurea diluta emergence and modelling of its growth using a nonlinear regression and artificial neural network
Authors: Sousa‐Ortega Carlos , Alcántara Cristina , Leon Ramon G , Barranco‐Elena Diego , Saavedra Milagros
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Centaurea diluta Aiton (North African knapweed) is a major weed concern in Spain as a result of the limited herbicides capable of controlling it, and the limited knowledge of its biology hinders the development of integrated weed management strategies.

RESULTS

The current study presents results from two experiments that aimed to: (i) determine the effect of seed burial on seedling emergence; and (ii) model its phenology progression using sigmoidal (SRM) and artificial neural network models (ANN) based on different cohort emergence times. In the first experiment, burial at 2 cm and 5 cm decreased C. diluta emergence by 54% and 90%, respectively, compared to the emergence at 0 cm. In the second experiment, without crop–weed competition conditions, the emergence delay led to reductions in leaf number, rosette diameter, plant height and dry biomass by 63%, 50%, 59% and 93%, respectively. Seed production per plant exceeded 21 469. According to the growth model, leaf number was the most consistent morphological trait and critical for timing weed control actions, so it was used to compare SRMs and ANNs. On average, ANNs increased the precision in 5.72% (± 2.4 leaves) compared to SRMs. This slight performance of ANNs may be valuable for controlling C. diluta because control methods must be applied at the 4‐leaf stage to achieve good efficacy.

CONCLUSION

Seed burial at 5 cm depth is an effective method reducing C. diluta emergence. ANNs accurately predicted the leaf number employing environmental variables can help increase the efficiency of C. diluta control actions and reduce the risk of escapes. © 2023 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
QSPR study to predict some of quantum chemical properties of anticancer imidazo[4,5‐b]pyridine derivatives using genetic algorithm multiple linear regression and molecular descriptors
Authors: Jafari Mahdi , Momeni Isfahani Tahereh , Shafiei Fatemeh , Senejani Masumeh Abdoli
Published: October 2023

Pyridine and its derivatives have been applied clinically for the treatment of a wide range of diseases and in the synthesis of novel drugs. In the present work, imidazo[4,5‐b]pyridine derivatives as anticancer drugs were exhibited to select the important descriptor for quantum chemical properties. Two of the fundamental thermodynamic properties are heat capacity (Cv) and entropy (S), which are important in the field of chemical kinetics and are key in the understanding and design of chemical processes involving chemical reactions. A Quantitative Structure–Property Relationship (QSPR) study was used to predict the quantum chemical properties like Cv and S of 105 imidazole derivatives using molecular descriptors and the genetic algorithm–multiple linear regression (GA–MLR). The best QSPR models were selected using criteria coefficients such as R2, R2adj, RMSE and Fisher ratio. Different internal and external validation metrics were adopted to evaluate the stability, fit and predictive power of the QSPR models. The validation results and statistical analysis show that the models possess good prediction power and robustness, and the total size (TS) and Sanderson electronegativity(RDF060e) and total information content index(TIC1) of imidazo[4,5‐b]pyridine derivatives are increasingly related to the studied properties.
Interaction behavior study of HCl on (ZnS)n (n = 1–12) clusters and HCl effect on Hg0 adsorption
Authors: Tian Zhimei , Zhang Na , Song Chongfu , Wang Chang
Published: October 2023

The interaction behavior of HCl and (ZnS)n (n = 1–12) clusters and HCl effect on Hg0 adsorbed by (ZnS)n have been studied theoretically. The combined genetic algorithm and density functional theory (GA‐DFT) method has been used to obtain the structures of (ZnS)nHCl and (ZnS)nHgHCl (n = 1–12) clusters. The structural properties of (ZnS)nHCl and (ZnS)nHgHCl have been analyzed. The adsorption energies and interaction energies have been calculated. Bond length and bond order analysis has revealed that SH and ZnCl bonds form after HCl adsorbed on (ZnS)n clusters, while Hg0 can only weakly bind with (ZnS)nHCl clusters. According to thermodynamic adsorption analysis, the formation of (ZnS)nHCl clusters from (ZnS)n and HCl are spontaneous because of their negative Gibbs free energy changes. The formation of (ZnS)nHgHCl from (ZnS)nHCl and Hg are nonspontaneous for n = 1–4 and 9, and the Gibbs free energy changes have small negative values for other sizes. Electron localization function and noncovalent interaction (NCI) analysis of (ZnS)10HgHCl manifest that Hg and its nearest Zn form zinc amalgam. Projected density of state study has been performed to obtain the interaction nature of HCl and (ZnS)n clusters and Hg0 adsorption on (ZnS)nHCl clusters. Based on our study, HCl is chemical adsorbed by (ZnS)n clusters except (ZnS)4 cluster. After (ZnS)n adsorbs HCl, Hg0 can physically adsorb on (ZnS)nHCl clusters. The strength of Hg0 on (ZnS)nHCl is comparable to that of Hg0 on (ZnS)n, indicating that HCl can hardly affect the adsorption of Hg0 on ZnS clusters.
Optimized Strategies for the Quantum‐State Preparation of Single Trapped Nitrogen Molecular Ions
Authors: Shlykov Aleksandr , Roguski Mikolaj , Willitsch Stefan
Published: October 2023

This study examines optimized strategies for the preparation of single molecular ions in well‐defined rotational quantum states in an ion trap with the example of the molecular nitrogen ion N. It advances a two‐step approach consisting of an initial threshold‐photoionization stage that produces molecular ions with a high probability in the target state, followed by a measurement‐based state purification of the sample. For this purpose, a resonance‐enhanced threshold photoionization scheme for producing N in its rovibrational ground state proposed by Gardner et al. [Sci. Rep. 2019, 9, 506] is characterized. The molecular state is measured using a recently developed quantum‐non‐demolition state‐detection method, finding a total fidelity of 387% for producing ground‐state N under the present experimental conditions. By discarding ions from the trap not found to be in the target state, essentially state‐pure samples of single N ions can be generated for subsequent state‐specific experiments.
Negative Capacitance Field Effect Transistors based on Van der Waals 2D Materials
Authors: Chen Ruo‐Si , Lu Yuerui
Published: October 2023

Steep subthreshold swing (SS) is a decisive index for low energy consumption devices. However, the SS of conventional field effect transistors (FETs) has suffered from Boltzmann Tyranny, which limits the scaling of SS to sub‐60 mV dec−1 at room temperature. Ferroelectric gate stack with negative capacitance (NC) is proved to reduce the SS effectively by the amplification of the gate voltage. With the application of 2D ferroelectric materials, the NC FETs can be further improved in performance and downscaled to a smaller dimension as well. This review introduces some related concepts for in‐depth understanding of NC FETs, including the NC, internal gate voltage, SS, negative drain‐induced barrier lowering, negative differential resistance, single‐domain state, and multi‐domain state. Meanwhile, this work summarizes the recent advances of the 2D NC FETs. Moreover, the electrical characteristics of some high‐performance NC FETs are expressed as well. The factors which affect the performance of the 2D NC FETs are also presented in this paper. Finally, this work gives a brief summary and outlook for the 2D NC FETs.
Low Potential CO2 Reduction by Inert Fe(II)‐Macrobicyclic Complex: A New Concept of Cavity Assisted CO2 Activation
Authors: Sarkar Piyali , Sarkar Sayan , Nayek Abhijit , Adarsh Nayarassery N. , Pal Arun K. , Datta Ayan , Dey Abhishek , Ghosh Pradyut
Published: October 2023

The advantage of a pre‐organized π‐cavity of Fe(II) complex of a newly developed macrobicycle cryptand is explored for CO2 reduction by overcoming the problem of high overpotential associated with the inert nature of the cryptate. Thus, a bipyridine‐centered tritopic macrobicycle having a molecular π‐cavity capable of forming Fe(II) complex as well as potential for CO2 encapsulation is synthesized. The inert Fe(II)‐cryptate shows much lower potential in cyclic voltammetry than the Fe(II)‐tris‐dimethylbipyridine (Fe‐MBP) core. Interestingly, this cryptate shows electrochemical CO2 reduction at a considerably lower potential than the Fe‐MBP inert core. Therefore, this study represents that a well‐structured π‐cavity may generate a new series of molecular catalysts for the CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR), even with the inert metal complexes.
The Hybrid of Cu─TCPP@Mn3O4 for Inflammation Relief by ROS Scavenging and O2 Production: An Efficient Strategy for Antiviral Therapy
Authors: Chen Liu‐Rong , Zou Yi‐Ming , Li Rong‐Tian , Zhou Xuan , Lai Ye‐Hua , Chen Jin‐Xiang , Yang Jie
Published: October 2023

Seasonal influenza still greatly threatens public health worldwide, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. Antiviral medications for influenza treatment are limited and accompanied by increased drug resistance. In severe influenza virus infection, hyperinflammation and hypoxia may be the significant threats associated with mortality, so the development of effective therapeutic methods to alleviate excessive inflammation while reducing viral damage is highly pursued. Here, a multifunctional MOF‐based nanohybrid of Cu─TCPP@Mn3O4 as a novel drug against influenza A virus infection (MOF = metal−organic framework; TCPP = tetrakis (4‐carboxyphenyl) porphyrin) is designed. Cu─TCPP@Mn3O4 exhibits potent inhibitory capability against influenza A virus infection in vitro and in vivo. The mechanism study reveals that Cu─TCPP@Mn3O4 inhibits the virus entry by binding to the HA2 subunit of influenza A virus hemagglutinin. In addition, the nanoparticles of Mn3O4 in Cu─TCPP@Mn3O4 can scavenge intracellular ROS with O2 generation to downregulate inflammatory factors and effectively inhibit cytokines production. By reconstructing the antioxidant microenvironment, Cu─TCPP@Mn3O4 features as a promising nanomedicine with anti‐inflammatory and anti‐viral synergistic effects.
Genome‐wide identification and expression analysis of heat shock protein gene family in cassava
Authors: Wang Changyi , Ran Fangfang , Zang Yuwei , Liu Liangwang , Wang Dayong , Min Yi
Published: October 2023

Heat shock proteins are important molecular chaperones that are involved in plant growth and stress responses. However, members of the Hsp family have been poorly studied in cassava. In this study, 225 MeHsp genes were identified in the cassava genome, and their genetic structures exhibited relatively conserved features within each subfamily. The 225 MeHsp genes showed random chromosomal distribution, and at least 74 pairs of segmentally duplicated MeHsp genes. Eleven tandemly duplicated MeHsp genes were identified. Cis‐element analysis revealed the importance of MeHsps in plant adaptations to the environment. The prediction of protein interactions suggested that MeHsp70‐20 may play a critical regulatory role in the interactive network. Furthermore, the expression profiles of MeHsps in different tissues and cell subsets were analyzed using bulk transcriptomics and single‐cell transcriptomic data. Several subfamily genes exhibited unique expression patterns in the transcriptome and were selected for detailed analysis of the single‐cell transcriptome. Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) revealed the expression patterns of these genes under temperature stress, further supporting the prediction of cis‐acting elements. This study provides valuable information for understanding the functional characteristics of MeHsp genes and the evolutionary relationships between MeHsps.
How do different members of the on‐farm mobility team perceive lameness, and what factors influence their NSAID use?
Authors: Craven Emily , Stavisky Jenny , Robinson Natalie , Dean Rachel
Published: October 2023

Background

Lameness affects approximately one‐third of the national dairy herd, impacting welfare and production. Non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the main analgesic available, but use is variable. The aims of this study were to describe how members of the mobility team perceive pain and use NSAIDs for conditions causing lameness in dairy cows.

Methods

A questionnaire was distributed online to UK farmers, veterinarians, veterinary technicians (VTs) and foot trimmers (FTs). Respondents were asked to describe factors affecting their NSAID use and to score pain associated with 16 scenarios, including diagnoses, conditions and procedures associated with lameness in cows.

Results

Of 210 respondents, 81 (38.6%) were farmers, 80 (38.1%) were veterinarians, 34 (16.2%) were FTs and 15 (7.1%) were VTs. For most conditions, farmers scored pain lower than veterinarians and VTs and were less likely to use or recommend NSAIDs than veterinarians, VTs and FTs. Farmers rated cow comfort as more important (p < 0.001) and the cost of drugs as less important (p < 0.001) in using NSAIDs than veterinarians predicted.

Limitations

There were fewer VTs and FTs than farmers and veterinarians, limiting generalisation. Response and social acceptability biases may have affected the findings.

Conclusion

All members of the mobility team have different perceptions and areas of expertise around lameness. Increasing collaboration and harnessing of skills and knowledge within the team could improve detection and treatment of lameness, with consequent benefits to cow welfare and production.
Manifestation of oculorenal syndrome in a dog chronically receiving zonisamide
Authors: Granger Kyle L. , Vogel Helena , Frank Chad , Bartner Lisa R. , Hall Kelly E.
Published: October 2023

Tubulointerstitial nephropathy and uveitis, otherwise more broadly known as oculorenal syndrome in human medicine, is a condition that has, to the authors’ knowledge, not been described in veterinary medicine. This report describes an 8‐year‐old, male, neutered, mixed breed dog with a 6‐year history of idiopathic epilepsy, chronically receiving zonisamide, who was presented for sub‐acute and recurrent episodes of severe generalised weakness, altered mentation and inappropriate urination. Throughout the dog's hospital visits, recurrent anterior uveitis, progressive severe metabolic acidosis, proteinuria, persistent granular casts and severe renal tubular acidosis, which progressed to renal insufficiency, were evident. Due to a poor prognosis and perceived poor quality of life, the dog was humanely euthanased. Postmortem examination and histopathology revealed tubulointerstitial nephropathy. In conjunction with clinical uveitis, this presentation reflects similarities with the human oculorenal syndrome, here referred to as canine oculorenal syndrome suspected secondary to chronic zonisamide administration.
A female Bullmastiff with calvarial hyperostosis syndrome and concurrent hyperostotic changes affecting the mandible and cervical vertebrae
Authors: Mól Michał , Alloway Elizabeth , Dugdale Alex , Mariscoli Massimo
Published: October 2023

An immature female Bullmastiff presented for assessment of swelling of the right dorsal orbital region, causing discomfort. Computed tomography showed osseous proliferation of the calvarium, frontal bone and concurrent unilateral osseous changes at the level of the left mandible. Ventral new bone formation and remodelling changes were noted between vertebrae C7 and T1. The vertebral bodies of C5, C6 and C7 were fused. Histopathology was consistent with calvarial hyperostosis syndrome. Subsequently, the dog developed neurological signs: proprioceptive ataxia and lower motor neuron ambulatory tetraparesis. Magnetic resonance imaging showed mild osseous spinal cord compression at C7 level. Calvarial hyperostosis syndrome described in this report is the first recorded case of a dog having concurrent hyperostotic changes affecting the calvarium, mandible and cervical vertebrae in a dog.
Reindeer Herders’ Food Knowledge Systems
Authors: Oskal Anders , Sara Ravdna Biret Marja Eira , Krarup-Hansen Kia , Smuk Inger Anita , Mathiesen Svein Disch
Published: October 2023

Reindeer husbandry is part of an Arctic civilization strongly tied to nature and dependent on it in multiple aspects, including the diets of its peoples. Food production in nomadic Sámi reindeer herding has, through generations, been nested within the seasonal use of pastures, securing biodiversity, and traditional knowledge of food preservation techniques. The traditional knowledge, culture, and language of reindeer herders provide a central foundation for building sustainable food systems and social-ecological resilience in the Arctic. Food knowledge systems of Arctic Indigenous peoples should be viewed as indicators of social-ecological resilience. There is a need to rethink the food systems’ strategies in the governance of Indigenous reindeer herders’ societies, their economy, and external relations. Arctic Indigenous food knowledge systems are damaged due to climate change, loss of biodiversity, loss of grazing land, and failure in economic reforms since traditional knowledge about food was not included in sustainable development planning and public management.
Distanzierung als erster Teil einer gemeinsam geteilten Orientierung: „also ich ähm (.) hab das noch nie erlebt, in der (.) so in krasser form“
Authors: Wittfeld Meike
Published: October 2023

Mit der Anfrage an die Teams für eine Gruppendiskussion zum Thema sexuelle Gewalt und welche Rolle diese Thematik bei ihrer Arbeit spielt, wurde das Phänomen als ein Thema markiert, zu dem die angefragten Teams einen Beitrag leisten könnten. Im Forschungsdesign wird also schon vorausgesetzt, dass sexuelle Gewalt in Institutionen für die Befragten relevant ist.
Analytic saddle spheres in $$\mathbb {S}^3$$ are equatorial
Authors: Gálvez José A. , Mira Pablo , Tassi Marcos P.
Published: October 2023

A theorem by Almgren establishes that any minimal 2-sphere immersed in $$\mathbb {S}^3$$

S

3

is a totally geodesic equator. In this paper we give a purely geometric extension of Almgren’s result, by showing that any immersed, real analytic 2-sphere in $$\mathbb {S}^3$$

S

3

that is saddle, i.e., of non-positive extrinsic curvature, must be an equator of $$\mathbb {S}^3$$

S

3

. We remark that, contrary to Almgren’s theorem, no geometric PDE is imposed on the surface. The result is not true for $$C^{\infty }$$

C
∞

spheres.
Boundedness of regular del Pezzo surfaces over imperfect fields
Authors: Tanaka Hiromu
Published: October 2023

For a regular del Pezzo surfaceX, we prove that$$|-12K_X|$$|-12KX|is very ample. Furthermore, we also give an explicit upper bound for the volume$$K_X^2$$KX2which depends only on$$[k: k^p]$$[k:kp]for the base fieldk. As a consequence, we obtain the boundedness of geometrically integral regular del Pezzo surfaces.
A GIS-based multi-objective evolutionary algorithm for landslide susceptibility mapping
Authors: Razavi-Termeh Seyed Vahid , Hatamiafkoueieh Javad , Sadeghi-Niaraki Abolghasem , Choi Soo-Mi , Al-Kindi Khalifa M.
Published: October 2023

Landslides pose a significant threat to human life and infrastructure, underscoring the ongoing need for accurate landslide susceptibility mapping (LSM) to effectively assess risks. This study introduces an innovative approach that leverages multi-objective evolutionary fuzzy algorithms for landslide modeling in Khalkhal town, Iran. Two algorithms, namely the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGA-II) and the evolutionary non-dominated radial slots-based algorithm (ENORA), were employed to optimize Gaussian fuzzy rules. By utilizing 15 landslide conditioning factors (aspect, altitude, distance from the fault, soil, slope, lithology, rainfall, distance from the road, the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), land cover, plan curvature, profile curvature, topographic wetness index (TWI), stream power index (SPI), and distance from the river) and historical landslide events (153 landslide locations), we randomly partitioned the input data into training (70%) and validation (30%) sets. The training set determined the weight of conditioning factor classes using the frequency ratio (FR) approach. These weights were then used as inputs for the NSGA-II and ENORA algorithms to generate an LSM. The NSGA-II algorithm achieved a root-mean-square error (RMSE) of 0.25 during training and 0.43 during validation. Similarly, the ENORA algorithm demonstrated an RMSE of 0.28 in training and 0.48 in validation. The findings revealed that the LSM created by the NSGA-II algorithm exhibited superior predictive capabilities (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) = 0.867) compared to the ENORA algorithm (AUC = 0.844). Additionally, a particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm was employed to determine the importance of conditioning factors, identifying lithology, land cover, and altitude as the most influential factors.
Mixed integer linear programming formulation for K-means clustering problem
Authors: Ágoston Kolos Cs. , E.-Nagy Marianna
Published: October 2023

The minimum sum-of-squares clusering is the most widely used clustering method. The minimum sum-of-squares clustering is usually solved by the heuristic KMEANS algorithm, which converges to a local optimum. A lot of effort has been made to solve such kind of problems, but a mixed integer linear programming formulation (MILP) is still missing. In this paper, we formulate MILP models. The advantage of MILP formulation is that users can extend the original problem with arbitrary linear constraints. We also present numerical results, we solve these models up to sample size of 150.
Determination of lateral strain in InGaAsSb alloys and its effect on structural and optical properties
Authors: González-Morales M. A. , Villa-Martínez G. , Cruz-Bueno J. J. , Ramírez-López M. , Camacho-Reynoso M. , Rodríguez-Fragoso P. , Mendoza-Álvarez J. G. , Casallas-Moreno Y. L. , Herrera-Pérez J. L.
Published: October 2023

In$$_x$$

x

Ga$$_{1-x}$$

1
-
x

As$$_y$$

y

Sb$$_{1-y}$$

1
-
y

epilayers with a fixed In content of $$\textit{x}$$
x
= 0.145 were grown on GaSb(100) substrates using liquid-phase epitaxy (LPE). The lattice mismatch between the quaternary epilayers and substrates was analyzed for different As contents ($$\textit{y}$$
y
) by X-ray $$\omega$$
ω
-2$$\theta$$
θ
. Epilayers with As content between $$\textit{y}$$
y
= 0.120 and $$\textit{y}$$
y
= 0.124 exhibited a positive lattice mismatch, leading to compressive strain. These samples showed a high crystalline quality and flat surfaces, as confirmed by high-resolution X-ray diffraction (HR-XRD) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Quaternary alloys with As content between $$\textit{y}$$
y
= 0.133 and $$\textit{y}$$
y
= 0.141 displayed a negative lattice mismatch, resulting in tensile strain. Structural defects in these samples were evidenced by HR-XRD and on AFM micrographs. Raman measurements also revealed that lateral strain has a direct impact on the intensities of the LO-like, phonon–plasmon and disorder-activated longitudinal acoustic modes. For all In$$_x$$

x

Ga$$_{1-x}$$

1
-
x

As$$_y$$

y

Sb$$_{1-y}$$

1
-
y

films, photoluminescence (PL) spectra showed a bound exciton (BE) transition, with additional features observed in samples under tensile strain, indicating the involvement of native defect centers and donor–acceptor pairs. This study provides new insights into the effect of lateral strain on the crystalline and surface quality, and optical properties of quaternary alloys, relevant for novel optoelectronic applications.
The Blume–Emery–Griffiths Model on the FAD Point and on the AD Line
Authors: Lima Paulo C. , Mariani Riccardo , Procacci Aldo , Scoppola Benedetto
Published: October 2023

We analyse the Blume–Emery–Griffiths (BEG) model on the lattice $${\mathbb {Z}}^d$$

Z

d

on the ferromagnetic-antiquadrupolar-disordered (FAD) point and on the antiquadrupolar-disordered (AD) line. In our analysis on the FAD point, we introduce a Gibbs sampler of the ground states at zero temperature, and we exploit it in two different ways: first, we perform via perfect sampling an empirical evaluation of the spontaneous magnetization at zero temperature, finding a non-zero value in $$d=3$$

d
=
3

and a vanishing value in $$d=2$$

d
=
2

. Second, using a careful coupling with the Bernoulli site percolation model in $$d=2$$

d
=
2

, we prove rigorously that under imposing $$+$$
+
boundary conditions, the magnetization in the center of a square box tends to zero in the thermodynamical limit and the two-point correlations decay exponentially. Also, using again a coupling argument, we show that there exists a unique zero-temperature infinite-volume Gibbs measure for the BEG. In our analysis of the AD line we restrict ourselves to $$d=2$$

d
=
2

and, by comparing the BEG model with a Bernoulli site percolation in a matching graph of $${\mathbb {Z}}^2$$

Z

2

, we get a condition for the vanishing of the infinite-volume limit magnetization improving, for low temperatures, earlier results obtained via expansion techniques.
Foundations of modeling resilience of tidal saline wetlands to sea-level rise along the U.S. Pacific Coast
Authors: Marcot Bruce G. , Thorne Karen M. , Carr Joel A. , Guntenspergen Glenn R.
Published: October 2023

Context

Tidal saline wetlands (TSWs) are highly threatened from climate-change effects of sea-level rise. Studies of TSWs along the East Coast U.S. and elsewhere suggest significant likely losses over coming decades but needed are analytic tools gauged to Pacific Coast U.S. wetlands.

Objectives

We predict the impacts of sea-level rise (SLR) on the elevation capital (vertical) and migration potential (lateral) resilience of TSWs along the Pacific Coast U.S. over the period 2020 to 2150 under a 1.5-m SLR scenario, and identified TSWs at risk of most rapid loss of resilience. Here, we define vertical resilience as the amount of elevation capital and lateral resilience as the amount of TSW displacement area relative to existing area.

Methods

We used Bayesian network (BN) modeling to predict changes in resilience of TSWs as probabilities which can be useful in risk analysis and risk management. We developed the model using a database sample of 26 TSWs with 147 sediment core samples, among 16 estuary drainage areas along coastal California, Oregon, and Washington.

Results

We found that all TSW sites would lose at least 50% of their elevation capital resilience by 2060 to just before 2100, and 100% by 2070 to 2130, depending on the site. Under a 1.5-m sea-level rise scenario, nearly all sites in California will lose most or all of their lateral migration resilience. Resilience losses generally accelerated over time. In the BN model, elevation capital resilience is most sensitive to elevation capital at time t, mean tide level at time t, and change in sea level from time 0 to time t.

Conclusions

All TSW sites were projected with declines in resilience. Our model can further aid decision-making such as prioritizing sites for potential management adaptation strategies. We also identified variables most influencing resilience predictions and thus those potentially prioritized for monitoring or development of strategies to prevent loss regionally.
Exercise training decreases the load and changes the content of circulating SDS-resistant protein aggregates in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction
Authors: Gouveia Marisol , Schmidt Cristine , Basilio Priscilla Gois , Aveiro Susana S. , Domingues Pedro , Xia Ke , Colón Wilfredo , Vitorino Rui , Ferreira Rita , Santos Mário , Vieira Sandra I. , Ribeiro Fernando
Published: October 2023

Background

Heart failure (HF) often disrupts the protein quality control (PQC) system leading to protein aggregate accumulation. Evidence from tissue biopsies showed that exercise restores PQC system in HF; however, little is known about its effects on plasma proteostasis.

Aim

To determine the effects of exercise training on the load and composition of plasma SDS-resistant protein aggregates (SRA) in patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF).

Methods

Eighteen patients with HFrEF (age: 63.4 ± 6.5 years; LVEF: 33.4 ± 11.6%) participated in a 12-week combined (aerobic plus resistance) exercise program (60 min/session, twice per week). The load and content of circulating SRA were assessed using D2D SDS-PAGE and mass spectrometry. Cardiorespiratory fitness, quality of life, and circulating levels of high-sensitive C-reactive protein, N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), haptoglobin and ficolin-3, were also evaluated at baseline and after the exercise program.

Results

The exercise program decreased the plasma SRA load (% SRA/total protein: 38.0 ± 8.9 to 36.1 ± 9.7%, p = 0.018; % SRA/soluble fraction: 64.3 ± 27.1 to 59.8 ± 27.7%, p = 0.003). Plasma SRA of HFrEF patients comprised 31 proteins, with α-2-macroglobulin and haptoglobin as the most abundant ones. The exercise training significantly increased haptoglobin plasma levels (1.03 ± 0.40 to 1.11 ± 0.46, p = 0.031), while decreasing its abundance in SRA (1.83 ± 0.54 × 1011 to 1.51 ± 0.59 × 1011, p = 0.049). Cardiorespiratory fitness [16.4(5.9) to 19.0(5.2) ml/kg/min, p = 0.002], quality of life, and circulating NT-proBNP [720.0(850.0) to 587.0(847.3) pg/mL, p = 0.048] levels, also improved after the exercise program.

Conclusion

Exercise training reduced the plasma SRA load and enhanced PQC, potentially via haptoglobin-mediated action, while improving cardiorespiratory fitness and quality of life of patients with HFrEF.
Metastases to the pituitary gland: insights from the German pituitary tumor registry
Authors: Haberbosch Linus , Schmid Simone , Hubertus Vanessa , Soll Dominik , Acker Güliz , Dottermusch Matthias , Jensen Marie , Maurer Lukas , Spranger Joachim , Mai Knut , Vajkoczy Peter , Saeger Wolfgang , Strasburger Christian J.
Published: October 2023

Metastatic involvement of the pituitary gland is a rare but clinically significant phenomenon, that often poses diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. The aim of this study was to provide a comprehensive analysis of the origin of pituitary metastases using data from the German Pituitary Tumor Registry, one of the globally largest collections of pituitary pathology specimens. Here, we report data from a retrospective analysis of patients with metastases to the pituitary registered between 1990 and 2022. Out of 17,896 pituitary cases in the registry during this period, a total of 96 metastases to the pituitary gland were identified, accounting for 0.5% of all pituitary tumors in the registry. The mean age of the patients was 64 years. Breast cancer was identified as the primary tumor in 25% of total cases (n = 24/96) and in 50% of female patients. The second most prevalent primary tumor was lung cancer (18.75%, n = 18/96), followed by renal cell carcinoma (14.58%, n = 14/96). In comparison to current meta-analyses, this cohort shows a higher prevalence of metastases originating from the kidney. Furthermore, in contrast to the existing literature, no case of primary thyroid tumor was identified. Our study highlights the importance of pituitary metastases as a differential diagnosis in patients presenting with pituitary tumors.
Does preoperative silodosin administration facilitate ureteral dilatation during flexible ureterorenoscopy? A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Diab Tamer , El-Shaer Waleed , Ibrahim Saad , El-Barky Ehab , Elezz Ahmed Abou
Published: October 2023

Purpose

To assess whether preoperative administration of silodosin can facilitate the placement of ureteral access sheath (UAS) prior to flexible ureteroscopy (F-URS) and reduce the occurrence of ureteric injury in challenging cases.

Methods

This prospective randomized clinical trial was carried out on 147 patients diagnosed with upper ureteric stone or stone kidney, non-stented. The patients were randomly divided into two equal groups. Group A (silodosin group) included patients in whom F-URS was done with daily preoperative intake of 8 mg silodosin for 1 week and group B (placebo/control group) included patients in whom F-URS was done with daily preoperative intake of placebo tablets.

Results

In group A, a total of 23 (33.3%) experienced ureteral wall injury following UAS insertion, while in group B, this occurred in 40 patients (59.7%). There was a statistically significant difference in the grade of ureteral wall injury between the two groups (P < 0.001). In the multiple regression analysis, age, operative time and silodosin were found to be significant risk factors for ureteral wall injury (P = 0.007, 0.041 and < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusions

The administration of silodosin prior to retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) effectively prevented significant ureteral wall damage and reduced initial postoperative discomfort.
Illicit Substance Use and Harm in Young Adulthood: the Role of Substance Use in Close Relationships and Individual Social Skills
Authors: Greenwood C. J. , Letcher P. , Macdonald J. A. , Hutchinson D. M. , Youssef G. J. , Toumbourou J. W. , Spry E. , Sanson A. , Cleary J. , Olsson C. A.
Published: October 2023

To examine illicit substance use across young adulthood and explore the extent to which social skills moderate the relationship between use and harm. 1,404 (761 women) from the Australian Temperament Project (est. 1983) participated across young adulthood (age 19–20, 23–24, and 27–28 years). Measures included self-reported illicit substance use/harm and social skills (i.e., assertion, empathy, responsibility, and self-control). The number and type of illicit substances used changed across young adulthood. Greater illicit substance use was associated with peer (OR = 4.96) and partner use (OR = 3.60). Moderation analyses suggested the risk relationship between the number of illicit substances used and harm was lower in those with high levels of assertion/self-control (ORassertion = 2.34, ORself-control = 2.60) compared to low levels (ORassertion = 4.43, ORself-control = 3.72). Evidence based programmes designed to strengthen individual social skills for young adults may play a role in protecting against the adverse effects of illicit substance use.