bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural changes in Schwann cells and nerve fibres in type 1 diabetes: relationship with diabetic polyneuropathy
Authors: Hu Xiaoli , Buhl Christian Selmer , Sjogaard Marie Balle , Schousboe Karoline , Mizrak Hatice Isik , Kufaishi Huda , Jensen Troels Staehelin , Hansen Christian Stevns , Yderstræde Knud Bonnet , Zhang Ming-Dong , Ernfors Patrik , Nyengaard Jens Randel , Karlsson Pall
Published: September 2023

Aims/hypothesis

Our aim was to investigate structural changes of cutaneous Schwann cells (SCs), including nociceptive Schwann cells (nSCs) and axons, in individuals with diabetic polyneuropathy. We also aimed to investigate the relationship between these changes and peripheral neuropathic symptoms in type 1 diabetes.

Methods

Skin biopsies (3 mm) taken from carefully phenotyped participants with type 1 diabetes without polyneuropathy (T1D, n=25), type 1 diabetes with painless diabetic polyneuropathy (T1DPN, n=30) and type 1 diabetes with painful diabetic polyneuropathy (P-T1DPN, n=27), and from healthy control individuals (n=25) were immunostained with relevant antibodies to visualise SCs and nerve fibres. Stereological methods were used to quantify the expression of cutaneous SCs and nerve fibres.

Results

There was a difference in the number density of nSCs not abutting to nerve fibres between the groups (p=0.004) but not in the number density of nSCs abutting to nerve fibres, nor in solitary or total subepidermal SC soma number density. The overall dermal SC expression (measured by dermal SC area fraction and subepidermal SC process density) and peripheral nerve fibre expression (measured by intraepidermal nerve fibre density, dermal nerve fibre area fraction and subepidermal nerve fibre density) differed between the groups (all p<0.05): significant differences were seen in participants with T1DPN and P-T1DPN compared with those without diabetic polyneuropathy (healthy control and T1D groups) (all p<0.05). No difference was found between participants in the T1DPN and P-T1DPN group, nor between participants in the T1D and healthy control group (all p>0.05). Correlational analysis showed that cutaneous SC processes and nerve fibres were highly associated, and they were weakly negatively correlated with different neuropathy measures.

Conclusions/interpretation

Cutaneous SC processes and nerves, but not SC soma, are degenerated and interdependent in individuals with diabetic polyneuropathy. However, an increase in structurally damaged nSCs was seen in individuals with diabetic polyneuropathy. Furthermore, dermal SC processes and nerve fibres correlate weakly with clinical measures of neuropathy and may play a partial role in the pathophysiology of diabetic polyneuropathy in type 1 diabetes.

Graphical Abstract
Combining return to sport, psychological readiness, body mass, hamstring strength symmetry, and hamstring/quadriceps ratio increases the risk of a second anterior cruciate ligament injury
Authors: Almeida Gabriel Peixoto Leão , Albano Thamyla Rocha , Rodrigues Carlos Augusto Silva , Tavares Maria Larissa Azevedo , de Paula Lima Pedro Olavo
Published: September 2023

Purpose

To investigate the combinations of variables that comprise the biopsychosocial model domains to identify clinical profiles of risk and protection of second anterior cruciate ligament injury.

Methods

One hundred and forty‐five patients for return‐to‐sport testing after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR) were contacted, and 97 were deemed eligible. All were evaluated between 6 and 24 months and followed up for 2 years. Participants answered the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) and Anterior Cruciate Ligament–Return to Sport after Injury Scale (ACL‐RSI), performed the postural stability assessment using the Biodex Balance System, and assessed muscle strength at 60° and 300°/s on the isokinetic dynamometer. Personal factors (age, gender, body mass index), body structures (graft type and concomitant injuries), and environmental factors (time between surgery and evaluation) were also collected. The participants were asked about the occurrence of a second ACL injury and return to sport after 2 years of follow‐up. Classification and regression tree (CART) analysis was used to determine predictors of a second ACL injury. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was performed to verify the accuracy of the CART analysis, in addition to the sensitivity, specificity, and relative risk (RR) of the model.

Results

Of the initial 97 participants, 88 (89.8%) responded to follow‐up and 14 (15.9%) had a second ACL injury (11 graft ruptures and three contralateral ACL). CART analysis identified the following variables as predictors of second ACL injury: return to sport, hamstring strength symmetry at 300°/s, ACL‐RSI score, hamstrings/quadriceps ratio at 60°/s, and body mass index (BMI). CART correctly identified 9 (64.3%) of the 14 participants who were reinjured and 71 (95.9%) of the 74 participants who were not. The total correct classification was 90.9%. The area under the ROC curve was 0.88 (95% CI 0.72–0.99; p < 0.001), and the model showed a sensitivity of 75% (95% CI 42.8–94.5), specificity of 93.4% (95% CI 85.3–97.8), and RR of 15.9 (95% CI 4.9–51.4; p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

The combination of hamstring strength symmetry, hamstring/quadriceps ratio (body functions); return to sport (activity and participation); psychological readiness; and BMI (personal factors) could identify three clinical risk profiles for a second ACL injury with good accuracy.

Level of Evidence

IV.
Operator splitting based dynamic iteration for linear differential-algebraic port-Hamiltonian systems
Authors: Bartel Andreas , Günther Michael , Jacob Birgit , Reis Timo
Published: September 2023

A dynamic iteration scheme for linear differential-algebraic port-Hamiltonian systems based on Lions–Mercier-type operator splitting methods is developed. The dynamic iteration is monotone in the sense that the error is decreasing and no stability conditions are required. The developed iteration scheme is even new for linear port-Hamiltonian systems governed by ODEs. The obtained algorithm is applied to a multibody system and an electrical network.
Multi-scale assessments reveal changes in the distribution of the endangered seagrass Posidonia australis and the role of disturbances
Authors: Swadling Daniel S. , West Greg J. , Gibson Peter T. , Laird Roger J. , Glasby Tim M.
Published: September 2023

Seagrasses are threatened globally by multiple anthropogenic disturbances, and management of these threats requires detailed information on where losses are occurring and why. Seagrass distribution is determined by processes operating at multiple scales, yet most assessments of change to seagrass extent are done at a single spatial scale. This study applied a multi-scale approach to quantify changes in the extent of the endangered seagrass Posidonia australis over the last 10–18 years using high-resolution mapping from 15 estuaries in New South Wales, Australia. Changes in P. australis extent and relationships with anthropogenic disturbances were examined at two spatial scales: across entire estuaries and at sub-estuary “local” scales within 50 × 50 m grids. Although increases in P. australis area were observed in ten estuaries, losses at local scales were prevalent in all estuaries. No disturbances correlated with seagrass change at the estuary scale; however, the greatest losses occurred in Botany Bay which is a highly modified estuary with a heavily urbanised catchment. At local scales, losses of P. australis were strongly associated with large areas of artificial structures and distance to the sea, and the greatest increases were observed in areas with marine reserves and no oyster aquaculture. These findings highlight the importance of quantifying changes in seagrass extent at multiple scales, as estuary-scale trends can mask localised losses if they are offset by increases in other parts of the estuary. Identifying hotspots of declines and the disturbances causing them are essential for applying focussed management actions to conserve seagrasses.
A glimmer of hope for an Endangered temperate soft coral: the first observations of reproductive strategies and early life cycle of Dendronephthya australis (Octocorallia: Malacalcyonacea)
Authors: Larkin Meryl F. , Davis Tom R. , Harasti David , Smith Stephen D. A. , Ainsworth Tracy D. , Benkendorff Kirsten
Published: September 2023

The habitat-forming Endangered ‘cauliflower’ soft coral Dendronephthya australis, endemic to South-east Australia, is in rapid decline. To aid future conservation strategies, it is vital to understand the fundamental biological processes of this species, particularly reproduction. This study describes the first records of sexual reproduction and asexual clonal replication, with observations both in aquaria and in the wild. We used a combination of observations including histological analyses of fresh specimens, and images of colonies in situ taken over 19 years, to investigate the reproductive cycle of D. australis. Mature oocytes and spermaries were found to develop within colonies during February/March, 2022. We subsequently closed the life cycle of D. australis from colonies spawned in aquaria, documenting all stages of embryogenesis and larval development through to polyp metamorphosis, and successfully transplanted juvenile colonies back into the field and documented their growth over six months to a maximum 435 polyps in size. We also document autonomous fragmentation events to provide accounts of asexual clonal propagation. These records confirm that D. australis is gonochoric and likely a broadcast spawning species that is also capable of utilising asexual reproduction by clonal replication. Observations of mature gametes support the hypothesis that spawning activity coincides with the seasonal increase in water temperature, and is likely to be a continuous phenomenon over 5 months of the year (November–March). These observations not only contribute to the knowledge base for this species, but also provide invaluable information on reproductive strategies that will support conservation efforts to assist the recovery of D. australis populations.
Nonlinear BSDEs with Two Optional Doob’s Class Barriers Satisfying Weak Mokobodzki’s Condition and Extended Dynkin Games
Authors: Klimsiak Tomasz , Rzymowski Maurycy
Published: September 2023

We study reflected backward stochastic differential equations (RBSDEs) on the probability space equipped with a Brownian motion. The main novelty of the paper lies in the fact that we consider the following weak assumptions on the data: barriers are optional of class (D) satisfying weak Mokobodzki’s condition, generator is continuous and non-increasing with respect to the value-variable (no restrictions on the growth) and Lipschitz continuous with respect to the control-variable, and the terminal condition and the generator at zero are supposed to be merely integrable. We prove that under these conditions on the data there exists a solution to corresponding RBSDE. In the second part of the paper, we apply the theory of RBSDEs to solve basic problems in Dynkin games driven by nonlinear expectation based on the generator mentioned above. We prove that the main component of a solution to RBSDE represents the value process in corresponding extended nonlinear Dynkin game. Moreover, we provide sufficient conditions on the barriers guaranteeing the existence of the value for nonlinear Dynkin games and the existence of a saddle point.
Theorie und Praxis der Trauma-fokussierten Mentalisierungsbasierten Therapie
Authors: Rüfenacht Eva N. , Shaverin Lisa , Bateman Anthony , Fonagy Peter , Taubner Svenja
Published: September 2023

Derzeit gibt es noch keine offiziellen Behandlungsrichtlinien für die komplexe posttraumatische Belastungsstörung (kPTBS). Die kPTBS unterscheidet sich von der PTBS durch die Symptomatik, Dauer oder Häufigkeit der Traumaexposition und durch eine hohe Komorbidität mit der Borderline-Persönlichkeitsstörung (BPS). Daher besteht Bedarf an der Entwicklung neuer Behandlungsmethoden, die auf diese Patient:innengruppe ausgerichtet sind. Im Folgenden wird eine neue Trauma-fokussierte Mentalisierungsbasierte Therapie, die für Patienten mit einer kPTBS entwickelt wurde und als Gruppenbehandlung konzipiert ist, beschrieben. Neben dem theoretischen Hintergrund und dem konzeptuellen Rahmen von Trauma in der mentalisierungsbasierten Therapie wird der Ablauf der Behandlung ausführlich dargestellt und anhand eines Fallbeispiels illustriert.
Esophageal Infusion of Menthol Does Not Affect Esophageal Motility in Patients with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Authors: Bánovčin Peter , Lipták Peter , Vážanová Diana , Hoferica Jakub , Tatár Miloš , Ďuriček Martin
Published: September 2023

Menthol is thought to trigger gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms by influencing esophageal peristalsis and lower esophageal sphincter (LES) function. We evaluated the effect of esophageal menthol infusion on esophageal motility and the LES in healthy volunteers and in patients with GERD. High resolution manometry (HRM) catheter with attached thin tube for menthol infusion was placed transnasally. Protocol which included baseline recording, 16 water swallows (5 ml, 10 ml, and 15 ml) and the multiple rapid swallows was performed before and after esophageal infusion of menthol (3 mM, 20 min, 8 ml/min). We evaluated the effect of this infusion on the HRM parameters of esophageal peristalsis (distal contractile integral, distal latency, contractile front velocity) and the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) barrier function (integrated relaxation pressure and the inspiratory augmentation of the LES). Simultaneously we evaluated the quality and intensity of the symptoms during the menthol infusion. Esophageal infusion of menthol did not appreciably affect HRM measurements characterizing esophageal peristalsis and LES pressure in healthy subjects (N = 13) or GERD patients (N = 11). The magnitude of the distal contractile integral (5 ml) was changed neither in the healthy volunteers’ group, (735 ± 127 vs. 814 ± 117 mmHg, p = 0.5), nor in the GERD patients (295 ± 78 vs. 338 ± 96 mmHg, p = 0.99). In healthy volunteers menthol did not change the inspiratory augmentation of the LES (8.67 ± 1.09 vs. 7.69 ± 0.96 mmHg, p = 0.15) and neither did for GERD patients (8.8 ± 1.18 vs. 8.22 ± 0.91 mmHg, p = 0.43). We observed no significant difference in any HRM parameter following menthol infusion, except for distal latency in 10 ml swallows. By contrast, menthol infusion induced significantly more intense discomfort in GERD patient than in healthy volunteers. Our results suggest no significant temporal effect of menthol on the esophageal motility or LES function, neither in healthy volunteers, nor in GERD. Arguably, other mechanisms are responsible for menthol-related heartburn.
Endoscopic therapies for patients with obesity: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Weitzner Zachary N. , Phan Jennifer , Begashaw Meron M. , Mak Selene S. , Booth Marika S. , Shekelle Paul G. , Maggard-Gibbons Melinda , Girgis Mark D.
Published: September 2023

Background

Obesity is a major threat to public health and traditional bariatric surgery continues to have low utilization. Endoscopic treatments for obesity have emerged that offer less risk, but questions remain regarding efficacy, durability, and safety. We compared the efficacy of endoscopic bariatric procedures as compared to other existing treatments.

Methods

A literature search of Embase, Cochrane Central, and Pubmed was conducted from January 1, 2014 to December 7, 2021, including endoscopic bariatric therapies that were FDA or CE approved at the time of search to non-endoscopic treatments. Thirty-seven studies involving 15,639 patients were included. Primary outcomes included % total body weight loss (%TBWL), % excess body weight loss (%EBWL), and adverse events. Secondary outcomes included quality of life data and differences in hemoglobin A1C levels. Strength of clinical trial and observational data were graded according to the Cochrane methods.

Results

Intragastric balloons achieved greater %TBWL with a range of 7.6–14.1% compared to 3.3–6.7% with lifestyle modification at 6 months, and 7.5–14.0% compared to 3.1–7.9%, respectively, at 12 months. When endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) was compared to laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), ESG had less %TBWL at 4.7–14.4% compared to 18.8–26.5% after LSG at 6 months, and 4.5–18.6% as compared to 28.4–29.3%, respectively, at 12 months. For the AspireAssist, there was greater %TBWL with aspiration therapy compared to lifestyle modification at 12 months, 12.1–18.3% TBWL versus 3.5–5.9% TBWL, respectively. All endoscopic interventions had higher adverse events rates compared to lifestyle modification.

Conclusion

This review is the first to evaluate various endoscopic bariatric therapies using only RCTs and observational studies for evaluation of weight loss compared with conservative management, lifestyle modification, and bariatric surgery. Endoscopic therapies result in greater weight loss compared to lifestyle modification, but not as much as bariatric surgery. Endoscopic therapies may be beneficial as an alternative to bariatric surgery.
Hidden genetics behind glomerular scars: an opportunity to understand the heterogeneity of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis?
Authors: Mitrotti Adele , Giliberti Marica , Di Leo Vincenzo , di Bari Ighli , Pontrelli Paola , Gesualdo Loreto
Published: September 2023

Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) is a complex disease which describes different kinds of kidney defects, not exclusively linked with podocyte defects. Since nephrin mutation was first described in association with early-onset nephrotic syndrome (NS), many advancements have been made in understanding genetic patterns associated with FSGS. New genetic causes of FSGS have been discovered, displaying unexpected genotypes, and recognizing possible site of damage. Many recent large-scale sequencing analyses on patients affected by idiopathic chronic kidney disease (CKD), kidney failure (KF) of unknown origin, or classified as FSGS, have revealed collagen alpha IV genes, as one of the most frequent sites of pathogenic mutations. Also, recent interest in complex and systemic lysosomal storage diseases, such as Fabry disease, has highlighted GLA mutations as possible causes of FSGS. Tubulointerstitial disease, recently classified by KDIGO based on genetic subtypes, when associated with UMOD variants, may phenotypically gain FSGS features, as well as ciliopathy genes or others, otherwise leading to completely different phenotypes, but found carrying pathogenic variants with associated FSGS phenotype. Thus, glomerulosclerosis may conceal different heterogeneous conditions. When a kidney biopsy is performed, the principal objective is to provide an accurate diagnosis. The broad spectrum of phenotypic expression and genetic complexity is demonstrating that a combined path of management needs to be applied. Genetic investigation should not be reserved only to selected cases, but rather part of medical management, integrating with clinical and renal pathology records. FSGS heterogeneity should be interpreted as an interesting opportunity to discover new pathways of CKD, requiring prompt genotype–phenotype correlation. In this review, we aim to highlight how FSGS represents a peculiar kidney condition, demanding multidisciplinary management, and in which genetic analysis may solve some otherwise unrevealed idiopathic cases. Unfortunately there is not a uniform correlation between specific mutations and FSGS morphological classes, as the same variants may be identified in familial cases or sporadic FSGS/NS or manifest a variable spectrum of the same disease. These non-specific features make diagnosis challenging. The complexity of FSGS genotypes requires new directions. Old morphological classification does not provide much information about the responsible cause of disease and misdiagnoses may expose patients to immunosuppressive therapy side effects, mistaken genetic counseling, and misguided kidney transplant programs.
Long-term cisplatin nephrotoxicity after childhood cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Schofield Jessica , Harcus Matthew , Pizer Barry , Jorgensen Andrea , McWilliam Stephen
Published: September 2023

Background

Cisplatin is a chemotherapeutic drug commonly used in the treatment of many childhood solid malignancies. It is known to cause long-term nephrotoxicity, most commonly manifesting as reduced glomerular filtration rate and hypomagnesaemia. Existing literature regarding the epidemiology of long-term nephrotoxicity in childhood cancer describes large variation in prevalence and risk factors.

Objectives

This study is to evaluate the prevalence of, and risk factors for, long-term cisplatin nephrotoxicity after treatment for childhood cancer.

Study eligibility criteria

Studies were eligible for inclusion if they: (i) evaluated participants treated with cisplatin who were diagnosed with cancer < 18 years of age; (ii) investigated any author-defined measure of nephrotoxicity; and (iii) performed this evaluation 3 or more months after cisplatin cessation. Studies whose scope was broader than this were included if appropriate subgroup analysis was performed.

Results

Prevalence of reduced glomerular filtration rate (GFR) ranged between 5.9 and 48.1%. Pooled prevalence of reduced GFR using studies with a modern consensus threshold of 90 ml/min/1.73 m2 was 29% (95% CI 0.0–58%). Prevalence of hypomagnesaemia ranged between 8.0 and 71.4%. Pooled prevalence of hypomagnesaemia was 37% (95% CI 22–51%). Substantial heterogeneity was present, with I2 statistics of 94% and 73% for reduced GFR and hypomagnesaemia respectively. All large, long-term follow-up studies described increased risk of reduced GFR with increasing cumulative cisplatin dose. Included studies varied as to whether cisplatin was a risk factor for proteinuria, and whether age was a risk factor for cisplatin nephrotoxicity.

Limitations

A wide range of study methodologies were noted which impeded analysis. No studies yielded data from developing health-care settings. No non-English studies were included, further limiting generalisability.

Conclusions

Both of the most common manifestations of long-term cisplatin nephrotoxicity have a prevalence of approximately a third, with increasing cumulative dose conferring increased risk of nephrotoxicity. Further work is needed to characterise the relationship between reduced GFR and hypomagnesaemia, investigate other risk factors and understand the interindividual variation in susceptibility to nephrotoxicity.
Evolutionary support vector regression for monitoring Poisson profiles
Authors: Yeganeh Ali , Abbasi Saddam Akber , Shongwe Sandile Charles , Malela-Majika Jean-Claude , Shadman Ali Reza
Published: September 2023

Many researchers have shown interest in profile monitoring; however, most of the applications in this field of research are developed under the assumption of normal response variable. Little attention has been given to profile monitoring with non-normal response variables, known as general linear models which consists of two main categories (i.e., logistic and Poisson profiles). This paper aims to monitor Poisson profile monitoring problem in Phase II and develops a new robust control chart using support vector regression by incorporating some novel input features and evolutionary training algorithm. The new method is quicker in detecting out-of-control signals as compared to conventional statistical methods. Moreover, the performance of the proposed scheme is further investigated for Poisson profiles with both fixed and random explanatory variables as well as non-parametric profiles. The proposed monitoring scheme is revealed to be superior to its counterparts, including the likelihood ratio test (LRT), multivariate exponentially weighted moving average (MEWMA), LRT-EWMA and other machine learning-based schemes. The simulation results show superiority of the proposed method in profiles with fixed explanatory variables and non-parametric models in nearly all situations while it is not able to be the best in all the simulations when there are with random explanatory variables. A diagnostic method with machine learning approach is also used to identify the parameters of change in the profile. It is shown that the proposed profile diagnosis approach is able to reach acceptable results in comparison with other competitors. A real-life example in monitoring Poisson profiles is also provided to illustrate the implementation of the proposed charting scheme.
Beitrag naturbasierter Lösungen zur Kreislaufwirtschaft in Städten – Die COST Action Circular City
Authors: Langergraber Günter , Canet Marti Alba , Pucher Bernhard
Published: September 2023

Im Rahmen des EU-finanzierten Netzwerkprojekts COST Action Circular City wurde die Anwendung von naturbasierten Lösungen (NBS) im Kontext der Kreislaufwirtschaft in Städten untersucht. Dabei steht die Minimierung des Inputs von notwendigen Ressourcen wie Wasser, Nährstoffen, Biomasse, lebenden Organismen und Energie im Vordergrund. Die Hauptergebnisse sind das Circular-City-Rahmenwerk (Framework) und dessen grafische Umsetzung als Online-Toolbox. Das Rahmenwerk beschreibt einen Technologie-Katalog mit NBS-Einheiten und -Interventionen, mit denen die Bewältigung der urbanen Herausforderungen der Kreislaufwirtschaft möglich ist, sowie eine Methodik zur Definition von Input- und Output-Ressourcenströmen. Das Online-Tool besteht aus einer Toolbox sowie einem Tool zur Quantifizierung der Ressourcenströme. Meist wird bei der Implementierung von NBS deren Potenzial zur Förderung der Multifunktionalität in der Regel nicht voll ausgeschöpft. Eine sektorübergreifende Zusammenarbeit ist dafür im Planungsprozess unerlässlich. Zirkuläres Denken unterstützt dabei eine bessere und multifunktionale Planung mehrerer städtischer Herausforderungen.
Self-efficacy, motivation, and habits: psychological correlates of exercise among women with breast cancer
Authors: Jones Tamara L. , Edbrooke Lara , Rawstorn Jonathan C. , Hayes Sandra C. , Maddison Ralph , Denehy Linda , Short Camille E.
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this analysis was to explore associations between exercise behaviour among breast cancer survivors and three behavioural constructs from distinct theories: self-efficacy from social cognitive theory, motivation from self-determination theory, and habits from habit theory.

Methods

Breast cancer survivors (n = 204) completed a cross-sectional survey that collected demographic and disease characteristics, exercise levels, and self-efficacy, motivation, and habits. Multivariable linear regression models were used to identify constructs associated with total activity and resistance training.

Results

Participants were a mean (SD) age of 57.3 (10.8) years and most were diagnosed with early-stage disease (72%) and engaged in sufficient levels of total activity (94%), though only 45% completed ≥ 2 resistance training sessions/week. Identified motivation (ꞵ[95% CI] = 7.6 [3.9–11.3]) and habits (ꞵ[95% CI] = 4.4 [1.4–7.4]) were significantly associated with total activity (as were body mass index and disease stage), whilst identified motivation (ꞵ[95% CI] = 0.6 [0.3–0.9]) and coping self-efficacy (ꞵ[95% CI] = 0.02 [< 0.01–0.03]) were significantly associated with resistance training. The models explained 27% and 16% of variance in total activity and resistance training behaviour, respectively.

Conclusion

Results suggest that incorporating strategies that support identified motivation, habits, and coping self-efficacy in future interventions could promote increased exercise behaviour among breast cancer populations. Future longitudinal research should examine associations with exercise in a more representative, population-based sample.
An ultrasensitive micropillar-enabled acoustic wave (μPAW) microdevice for real-time viscosity measurement
Authors: Esfahani Ilia Chiniforooshan , Ji Siqi , Alamgir Tehrani Nastaran , Sun Hongwei
Published: September 2023

Viscosity measurement has recently captured considerable attention due to its wide range of applications in fields such as pharmacy, food industry, cosmetic industry, and biomedical diagnostics. Acoustic wave sensors such as quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) are well-known mass sensors that also show their capability in measuring liquid viscosity. However, the challenges for QCM-based viscosity measurement devices lie in their low sensitivity and unstable response. Herein, we report an ultrasensitive micropillar-enabled acoustic wave (μPAW) viscometer by fabricating well-defined polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) micropillars on a QCM substrate to achieve ultrahigh sensitivity for liquid viscosity with a stable response thanks to a unique vibration coupling between the micropillar and QCM substrate. The μPAW based viscometer shows a 20-fold improvement in the measurement sensitivity over traditional QCM viscometers and achieved an excellent limit of detection (LOD) while measuring the viscosity of sucrose liquid as low as 0.054 wt%. The microdevice developed in this work is a promising tool for the viscosity measurement of liquids.
Beneficial and harmful effects of physical activity on care-seeking for low back pain: the AUTBACK study
Authors: Ho E. K. , Ferreira M. L. , Bauman A. , Carvalho-e-Silva AP , Pinheiro M. B. , Hübscher M. , Calais-Ferreira L. , Simic M. , Ferreira P. H.
Published: September 2023

Purpose

People who seek more care for low back pain (LBP) tend to experience poorer recovery (e.g. higher pain and disability levels). Understanding the factors associated with care-seeking for LBP might improve patient outcomes and potentially alleviate the burden of LBP on global health systems. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between different intensities, volumes, and domains of physical activity and care-seeking behaviours, in people with a history of LBP.

Methods

Longitudinal data from adult twins were drawn from the AUstralian Twin BACK study. The primary outcome was the total self-reported frequency (counts) of overall utilisation of care for LBP, over 1 year. Secondary outcomes were the utilisation of health services, and the utilisation of self-management strategies, for LBP (assessed as total frequency over 1 year). Explanatory variables were device-based measures of sedentary behaviour and moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity, and self-reported physical workload, and work, transport, household, and leisure domain physical activity, at baseline.

Results

Data from 340 individuals were included. Median age was 56.4 years (IQR 44.9–62.3 years) and 73% of participants were female. Medium-to-high baseline volumes of sedentary behaviour were significantly associated with greater counts of overall care utilisation (IRR 1.60, 95%CI 1.04–2.44) and utilisation of self-management strategies (IRR 1.60, 95%CI 1.02–2.50) for LBP, over 1 year. Medium-to-high baseline volumes of household domain physical activity were significantly associated with greater counts of utilising self-management strategies for LBP over 1 year (IRR 1.62, 95%CI 1.04–2.53). No explanatory variables were associated with the utilisation of health services for LBP.

Conclusion

People who engage in higher baseline volumes of sedentary behaviour or physical activity in the household setting (e.g. housework, gardening, yard work, general household maintenance) utilise 1.6 times more care for LBP over 1 year. Findings suggest that higher volumes of these behaviours may be harmful for LBP. No intensities, volumes, or domains of physical activity demonstrated clear benefits for LBP. Where feasible, patients and clinicians should collaborate to screen and develop strategies to reduce engagement in sedentary behaviour or physical activity in the household setting. Contextual factors (e.g. patient symptom severity, sociocultural roles, occupational demands) should be considered when devising appropriate behaviour change strategies.
Visualization of the lenticulostriate arteries, long insular arteries, and long medullary arteries on intra-arterial computed tomography angiography with ultrahigh resolution in patients with glioma
Authors: Osada Yoshinari , Kanamori Masayuki , Osawa Shin-Ichiro , Kayano Shingo , Uchida Hiroki , Shimoda Yoshiteru , Mugikura Shunji , Tominaga Teiji , Endo Hidenori
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The anatomical association between the lesion and the perforating arteries supplying the pyramidal tract in insulo-opercular glioma resection should be evaluated. This study reported a novel method combining the intra-arterial administration of contrast medium and ultrahigh-resolution computed tomography angiography (UHR-IA-CTA) for visualizing the lenticulostriate arteries (LSAs), long insular arteries (LIAs), and long medullary arteries (LMAs) that supply the pyramidal tract in two patients with insulo-opercular glioma.

Methods

This method was performed by introducing a catheter to the cervical segment of the internal carotid artery. The infusion rate was set at 3 mL/s for 3 s, and the delay time from injection to scanning was determined based on the time-to-peak on angiography. On 2- and 20-mm-thick UHR-IA-CTA slab images and fusion with magnetic resonance images, the anatomical associations between the perforating arteries and the tumor and pyramidal tract were evaluated.

Results

This novel method clearly showed the relationship between the perforators that supply the pyramidal tract and tumor. It showed that LIAs and LMAs were far from the lesion but that the proximal LSAs were involved in both cases. Based on these results, subtotal resection was achieved without complications caused by injury of perforators.

Conclusion

UHR-IA-CTA can be used to visualize the LSAs, LIAs, and LMAs clearly and provide useful preoperative information for insulo-opercular glioma resection.
Does glaze firing affect the strength of advanced lithium disilicate after simulated defects?
Authors: Lu Yuqing , de Oliveira Dal Piva Amanda Maria , Tribst João Paulo Mendes , Feilzer Albert J , Kleverlaan Cornelis J
Published: September 2023

Objective

To study the influence of glazing on strength repair of lithium disilicate glass–ceramics after defect incorporation in different production processing phases.

Materials and methods

Bar-shaped specimens (1 × 1 × 12 mm, n = 280; 20/group) made from different lithium disilicate ceramics (IPS e.max CAD, Ivoclar, “LD” or advanced lithium disilicate CEREC Tessera, Dentsply Sirona, “ALD”) were exposed to 7 different protocols: crystallized without (c) and with glaze layer (cg), with a defect incorporated before crystallization without (ic) and with glaze layer (icg), with a defect after crystallization without (ci) or with glaze layer (cig), and defect incorporated after the glaze layer (cgi). The flexural strength was determined using the three-point bending test. Analysis of indented areas and fractured specimens was performed by scanning electron microscopy. Flexural strength data were evaluated by two-way ANOVA followed by Tukey tests (α = 5%).

Results

Two-way ANOVA revealed a significant influence of ceramic (p < 0.001; F = 55.45), protocol (p < 0.001; F = 56.94), and the interaction protocol*ceramic (p < 0.001; F = 13.86). Regardless of ceramics, defect incorporation as final step resulted in the worst strength, while defects introduced before crystallization did not reduce strength. Glaze firing after defect incorporation led to strength repair for ALD, whereas such an effect was not evident for LD.

Conclusions

The advanced lithium disilicate must receive a glaze layer to achieve its highest strength. Defects incorporated in the pre-crystallized stage can be healed during crystallization. Defects should not be incorporated after glazing.

Clinical relevance

Clinical adjustments should be performed on pre-crystallized or crystalized restorations that receive a glazer layer afterwards.
A national-scale assessment of land use change in peatlands between 1989 and 2020 using Landsat data and Google Earth Engine—a case study of Ireland
Authors: Habib Wahaj , Connolly John
Published: September 2023

Over the centuries, anthropogenic pressure has severely impacted peatlands on the European continent. Peatlands cover ~ 21% (1.46 Mha) of Ireland’s land surface, but 85% have been degraded due to management activities (land use). Ireland needs to meet its 2030 climate energy framework targets related to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from land use, land use change and forestry, including wetlands. Despite Ireland’s voluntary decision to include peatlands in this system in 2020, information on land use activities and associated GHG emissions from peatlands is lacking. This study strives to fill this information gap by using Landsat (5, 8) data with Google Earth Engine and machine learning to examine and quantify land use on Irish peatlands across three time periods: 1990, 2005 and 2019. Four peatland land use classes were mapped and assessed: industrial peat extraction, forestry, grassland and residual peatland. The overall accuracy of the classification was 86% and 85% for the 2005 and 2019 maps, respectively. The accuracy of the 1990 dataset could not be assessed due to the unavailability of high-resolution reference data. The results indicate that extensive management activities have taken place in peatlands over the past three decades, which may have negative impacts on its ecological integrity and the many ecosystem services provided. By utilising cloud computing, temporal mosaicking and Landsat data, this study developed a robust methodology that overcomes cloud contamination and produces the first peatland land use maps of Ireland with wall-to-wall coverage. This has the potential for regional and global applications, providing maps that could help understand unsustainable management practices on peatlands and the impact on GHG emissions.
Targeting the microenvironment in the treatment of arteriovenous malformations
Authors: Seebauer Caroline T. , Wiens Benedikt , Hintschich Constantin A. , Platz Batista da Silva Natascha , Evert Katja , Haubner Frank , Kapp Friedrich G. , Wendl Christina , Renner Kathrin , Bohr Christopher , Kühnel Thomas , Vielsmeier Veronika
Published: September 2023

Extracranial arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are regarded as rare diseases and are prone to complications such as pain, bleeding, relentless growth, and high volume of shunted blood. Due to the high vascular pressure endothelial cells of AVMs are exposed to mechanical stress. To control symptoms and lesion growth pharmacological treatment strategies are urgently needed in addition to surgery and interventional radiology. AVM cells were isolated from three patients and exposed to cyclic mechanical stretching for 24 h. Thalidomide and bevacizumab, both VEGF inhibitors, were tested for their ability to prevent the formation of circular networks and proliferation of CD31+ endothelial AVM cells. Furthermore, the effect of thalidomide and bevacizumab on stretched endothelial AVM cells was evaluated. In response to mechanical stress, VEGF gene and protein expression increased in patient AVM endothelial cells. Thalidomide and bevacizumab reduced endothelial AVM cell proliferation. Bevacizumab inhibited circular network formation of endothelial AVM cells and lowered VEGF gene and protein expression, even though the cells were exposed to mechanical stress. With promising in vitro results, bevacizumab was used to treat three patients with unresectable AVMs or to prevent regrowth after incomplete resection. Bevacizumab controlled bleeding, pulsation, and pain over the follow up of eight months with no patient-reported side effects. Overall, mechanical stress increases VEGF expression in the microenvironment of AVM cells. The monoclonal VEGF antibody bevacizumab alleviates this effect, prevents circular network formation and proliferation of AVM endothelial cells in vitro. The clinical application of bevacizumab in AVM treatment demonstrates effective symptom control with no side effects.

Graphical abstract

Mechanical stress increases VEGF expression in endothelial AVM cells, possibly causing the VEGF upregulation in the microenvironment of AVM cells. The resulting RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK signaling in leads to progression of fast-flow malformations. The monoclonal VEGF-A antibody bevacizumab alleviates this effect, prevents circular network formation and proliferation of AVM endothelial cells in vitro. Sporadically occurring slow-flow malformations (LMs, VMs) have mutations in TEK or PIK3CA. TEK encodes the endothelial receptor tyrosine kinase TIE2. Sporadic extracranial fast-flow malformations (AVMs) show mutations in KRAS, BRAF and MAP2K1, which encodes the dual specificity mitogen-activated protein kinase MEK1. Combined targeting of the molecular causes of the disease could be key to achieve symptom control and reduce lesion growth. Orange: gain-of-function; Blue, circled with orange: enhanced signaling.
Linking assessment to real life practice – comparing work based assessments and objective structured clinical examinations using mystery shopping
Authors: Lim Angelina , Krishnan Sunanthiny , Singh Harjit , Furletti Simon , Sarkar Mahbub , Stewart Derek , Malone Daniel
Published: September 2023

Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs) and Work Based Assessments (WBAs) are the mainstays of assessing clinical competency in health professions’ education. Underpinned by the extrapolation inference in Kane’s Validity Framework, the purpose of this study is to determine whether OSCEs translate to real life performance by comparing students’ OSCE performance to their performance in real-life (as a WBA) using the same clinical scenario, and to understand factors that affect students’ performance. A sequential explanatory mixed methods approach where a grade comparison between students’ performance in their OSCE and WBA was performed. Students were third year pharmacy undergraduates on placement at a community pharmacy in 2022. The WBA was conducted by a simulated patient, unbeknownst to students and indistinguishable from a genuine patient, visiting the pharmacy asking for health advice. The simulated patient was referred to as a ‘mystery shopper’ and the process to ‘mystery shopping’ in this manuscript. Community pharmacy is an ideal setting for real-time observation and mystery shopping as staff can be accessed without appointment. The students’ provision of care and clinical knowledge was assessed by the mystery shopper using the same clinical checklist the student was assessed from in the OSCE. Students who had the WBA conducted were then invited to participate in semi-structured interviews to discuss their experiences in both settings. Overall, 92 mystery shopper (WBA) visits with students were conducted and 36 follow-up interviews were completed. The median WBA score was 41.7% [IQR 28.3] and significantly lower compared to the OSCE score 80.9% [IQR 19.0] in all participants (p < 0.001). Interviews revealed students knew they did not perform as well in the WBA compared to their OSCE, but reflected that they still need OSCEs to prepare them to manage real-life patients. Many students related their performance to how they perceived their role in OSCEs versus WBAs, and that OSCEs allowed them more autonomy to manage the patient as opposed to an unfamiliar workplace. As suggested by the activity theory, the performance of the student can be driven by their motivation which differed in the two contexts.
Producers’ transition to alternative food practices in rural China: social mobilization and cultural reconstruction in the formation of alternative economies
Authors: Zhang Qian Forrest
Published: September 2023

The shift from the conventional agri-food system to alternative practices is a challenging transition for agricultural producers, yet surprisingly under-studied. Little research has examined the social and cultural processes in rural communities that mobilize producers and construct and sustain producer-driven alternative food networks (AFNs). For AFNs to go beyond just offering “alternative foods” or “alternative networks” and to be constructed as “alternative economies”, this transformation in the producer community is indispensable. This paper presents a case study of a rural cooperative in Shanxi, China. The discontent with both productivist agriculture and the social decay in communities motivated a group of women to engage in a decade-long process of social mobilization, cultural reconstruction, and learning by experimentation. Through this, they developed an alternative vision and successfully created a localized alternative socio-economic model, which I call “anti-productivism”. It prioritizes ecological sustainability, self-reliance, reciprocity, and cultural values over output maximization, productivity growth, commodity exchange, and monetary gains. This case contrasts sharply with the urban-initiated, consumer-driven AFNs studied in the China literature, which mostly just offered alternative foods but brought little change to the producer community. It shows that the alternative economy must be embedded in an alternative community united by strong social bonds and shared cultural values.
Citizen science and diet analysis shed light on dog-wildlife interactions in Italy
Authors: Sogliani Davide , Mori Emiliano , Lovari Sandro , Lazzeri Lorenzo , Longoni Alice , Tabarelli De Fatis Karol , Sabatini Patrizia , Di Nicola Matteo Riccardo , Russo Danilo
Published: September 2023

Domestic dogs Canis familiaris may cause a range of impacts on wildlife through predation, competition, pathogen transmission, harassment and hybridisation with wolves and other wild canids, yet such effects are less known than those of other domestic species.

In this work, we have combined citizen science data and information collected by scientists on the potential impact of free-ranging dogs on wildlife in Italy. Citizen science data, obtained through online surveys on social networks, consisted of pictures of wildlife killed or harassed by dogs from 2002 to 2022. Additional records were collected from articles in newspapers. We also provide the results of a diet analysis from domestic dog scats, collected in the countryside in central Italy in 1998–1999, for which we assessed prey selection by comparing consumption with availability. The citizen science survey provided 589 records: dogs attacked and killed 95 species, mostly mammals and birds, including small game species. Among species of conservation concern, dogs attacked/killed Mustela putorius and Hystrix cristata, both included in Annex IV of the Habitats Directive, and the Italian endemic Lepus corsicanus and Passer italiae. Over 90% of the attacks were caused by unleashed dogs in the presence of their owner in urban and periurban areas. The 148 dog scats analysed contained 30 prey species, mainly mammals, which made the staple of the dog diet, followed by amorphous material, most likely pet food. Remains of domestic sheep were frequent in the diet, as were hares Lepus europaeus and roe deer Capreolus capreolus among wild mammals. Wild boar Sus scrofa ranked first among the selected prey species, followed by hares, whereas roe deer and grey partridges Perdix perdix were negatively selected. The mitigation of the impact of domestic carnivores on wildlife strongly requires awareness raising to promote responsible pet ownership and strict avoidance of dogs’ free-ranging behaviour, especially where encounters with wildlife are most likely.