bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-term survival in patients with brain metastases—clinical characterization of a rare scenario
Authors: Hügel M. , Stöhr J. , Kuhnt T. , Nägler F. , Papsdorf K. , Klagges S. , Hambsch P. , Güresir E. , Nicolay N. H. , Seidel C.
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to assess clinical, treatment, and prognostic features in patients with brain metastases (BM) from solid tumors achieving long-term survival (LTS). Further, the accuracy of diagnosis-specific Graded Prognostic Assessment scores (ds-GPA) to predict LTS was evaluated.

Methods

Patients admitted for radiotherapy of BM between 2010 and 2020 at a large tertiary cancer center with survival of at least 3 years from diagnosis of BM were included. Patient, tumor, treatment characteristics and ds-GPA were compiled retrospectively.

Results

From a total of 1248 patients with BM, 61 (4.9%) survived ≥ 3 years. In 40 patients, detailed patient charts were available. Among LTS patients, median survival time from diagnosis of BM was 51.5 months. Most frequent primary tumors were lung cancer (45%), melanoma (20%), and breast cancer (17.5%). At the time of diagnosis of BM, 11/40 patients (27.5%) had oligometastatic disease. Estimated mean survival time based on ds-GPA was 19.7 months (in 8 cases estimated survival < 12 months). Resection followed by focal or whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT) was often applied (60%), followed by primary stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT) (20%) or WBRT (20%). 80% of patients received systemic treatment, appearing particularly active in specifically altered non-small lung cancer (NSCLC), melanoma, and HER2-positive breast cancer. Karnofsky performance score (KPS) and the presence of oligometastatic disease at BM diagnosis were persisting prognostic factors in LTS patients.

Conclusion

In this monocentric setting reflecting daily pattern of care, LTS with BM is heterogeneous and difficult to predict. Effective local treatment and modern systemic therapies often appear crucial for LTS. The impact of concomitant diseases and frailty is not clear.
Surgical suction filter-derived bone graft displays osteogenic miRNA and mRNA patterns
Authors: Groven Rald V. M. , Blokhuis Job T. , Poeze Martijn , van Griensven Martijn , Blokhuis Taco J.
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Recently, a surgical suction filter device was introduced which aims at generating a suction filter-derived bone grafting substitute (SF-BGS). The osteogenic capacity of this grafting material, however, is unclear. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) and osteogenic mRNAs may influence these processes. The aim of this study was therefore to investigate the quality of the SF-BGS by determining the expression of miRNAs and osteogenic mRNAs.

Methods

Samples were collected during non-union surgery. Upon exposure of the intramedullary canal, the surgical vacuum system was fitted with the suction filter device containing collagen complex and synthetic β-TCP: (Ca3(PO4)2, granule size 5–8 mm, total volume 10 mL (Cerasorb Foam®, Curasan AG, Kleinostheim, Germany). As a control, venous blood was used as in current clinical practice. Samples were snap-frozen and mechanically disrupted. MiRNAs and mRNAs were isolated, transcribed, and pooled for qPCR analysis. Lastly, mRNA targets were determined through in silico target analyses.

Results

The study population consisted of seven patients with a posttraumatic long bone non-union (4♀; mean age 54 ± 16 years). From the array data, distinct differences in miRNA expression were found between the SF-BGS and control samples. Osteogenic marker genes were overall upregulated in the SF-BGS. Qiagen IPA software identified 1168 mRNA targets for 43 of the overall deregulated miRNAs.

Conclusion

This study revealed distinctly deregulated and exclusively expressed osteogenic miRNAs in SF-BGS, as well as overall enhanced osteogenic marker gene expression, as compared to the venous blood control group. These expression profiles were not seen in control samples, indicating that the derived material displays an osteogenic profile. It may therefore be a promising tool to generate a BGS or graft extender when needed.
Short and long-term readmission after major emergency abdominal surgery: a prospective Danish study
Authors: í Soylu Lív , Kokotovic Dunja , Gögenur Ismail , Ekeloef Sarah , Burcharth Jakob
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Major emergency abdominal surgery is associated with severe in-hospital complications and loss of performance. After discharge, a substantial fraction of patients are readmitted emergently; however, limited knowledge exists of the long-term consequences. The aim of this study was to examine the risks and causes of short-term (30-day) and long-term (180-day) readmission among patients undergoing major emergency abdominal surgery.

Methods

This study included 504 patients who underwent major emergency abdominal surgery at the Zealand University Hospital between March 1, 2017, and February 28, 2019. The population was followed from 0 to 180 days after discharge, and detailed readmission information was registered. A Cox proportional hazards model was used to examine the independent risk factors for readmission within 30 and 180 days.

Results

From 0 to 30 days after discharge, 161 (31.9%) patients were readmitted emergently, accumulating to 241 (47.8%) patients within 180 days after discharge. The main reasons for short-term readmission were related to the gastrointestinal tract and surgical wounds, whereas long-term readmissions were due to infections, cardiovascular complications, and abdominal pain. Stomal placement was an independent risk factor for short-term readmission, whereas an ASA score of 3 was a risk factor for both short-term and long-term readmission.

Conclusion

Close to 50% of all patients who underwent major emergency abdominal surgery had one or more emergency readmission within 180 days of discharge, and these data points towards the risk factors involved.
Basic values in artificial intelligence: comparative factor analysis in Estonia, Germany, and Sweden
Authors: Masso Anu , Kaun Anne , van Noordt Colin
Published: August 2023

Increasing attention is paid to ethical issues and values when designing and deploying artificial intelligence (AI). However, we do not know how those values are embedded in artificial artefacts or how relevant they are to the population exposed to and interacting with AI applications. Based on literature engaging with ethical principles and moral values in AI, we designed an original survey instrument, including 15 value components, to estimate the importance of these values to people in the general population. The article is based on representative surveys conducted in Estonia, Germany, and Sweden (n = 4501), which have varying experiences with implementing AI. The factor analysis showed four underlying dimensions of values embedded in the design and use of AI: (1) protection of personal interests to ensure social benefit, (2) general monitoring to ensure universal solidarity, (3) ensuring social diversity and social sustainability, and (4) efficiency. We found that value types can be ordered along the two dimensions of resources and change. The comparison between countries revealed that some dimensions, like social diversity and sustainability evaluations, are more universally valued among individuals, countries, and domains. Based on our analysis, we suggest a need and a framework for developing basic values in AI.
Macrophyte complexity influences habitat choices of juvenile fish
Authors: Hinz Hilmar , Anglada Paula , Gayá Vilar Alberto , Reñones Olga , Catanese Gaetano , Castro-Fernández Julia , Gil Maria del Mar , Grau Amalia , Moranta Joan
Published: August 2023

The nursery function of littoral habitats for juvenile fish is widely recognized, but data on the specific habitat features that contribute to this function is sparse for many species, in part related to the difficulty of studying juvenile fish in their natural environment. However, this information is required to understand the potential risks of environmental change to the nursery functions of habitats. In this context, the habitat choice behaviour, with respect to differences in structural features, was evaluated for three Mediterranean littoral fish species known to be associated to macrophytes as juveniles. The overarching aim of this experiment was to determine if juveniles actively choose between different macrophyte configurations of varying complexity and height. Juveniles were exposed simultaneously to multiple visual habitat stimuli within an experimental choice arena, and their swimming behaviour was tracked by video recordings to determine the amount of time they spent near each habitat configuration. All three species showed a clear association in their occupancy towards more complex habitat configurations demonstrating that juveniles distinguished and actively selected habitats using visual cues. Subtle differences in species' affinity for complex habitats allowed us to appraise their potential vulnerabilities to habitat loss in the Mediterranean under environmental change scenarios. Furthermore, the results of this study provided evidence that differences in juvenile distribution between habitats found in previous observational studies may indeed be caused by active habitat selection, as well as through differential survivorship rates.
Association between resistance to cerebrospinal fluid flow and cardiac-induced brain tissue motion for Chiari malformation type I
Authors: Mohsenian Saeed , Ibrahimy Alaaddin , Al Samman Mohamad Motaz F. , Oshinski John N. , Bhadelia Rafeeque A. , Barrow Daniel L. , Allen Philip A. , Amini Rouzbeh , Loth Francis
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Chiari malformation type I (CMI) patients have been independently shown to have both increased resistance to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow in the cervical spinal canal and greater cardiac-induced neural tissue motion compared to healthy controls. The goal of this paper is to determine if a relationship exists between CSF flow resistance and brain tissue motion in CMI subjects.

Methods

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) techniques were employed to compute integrated longitudinal impedance (ILI) as a measure of unsteady resistance to CSF flow in the cervical spinal canal in thirty-two CMI subjects and eighteen healthy controls. Neural tissue motion during the cardiac cycle was assessed using displacement encoding with stimulated echoes (DENSE) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique.

Results

The results demonstrate a positive correlation between resistance to CSF flow and the maximum displacement of the cerebellum for CMI subjects (r = 0.75, p = 6.77 × 10−10) but not for healthy controls. No correlation was found between CSF flow resistance and maximum displacement in the brainstem for CMI or healthy subjects. The magnitude of resistance to CSF flow and maximum cardiac-induced brain tissue motion were not statistically different for CMI subjects with and without the presence of five CMI symptoms: imbalance, vertigo, swallowing difficulties, nausea or vomiting, and hoarseness.

Conclusion

This study establishes a relationship between CSF flow resistance in the cervical spinal canal and cardiac-induced brain tissue motion in the cerebellum for CMI subjects. Further research is necessary to understand the importance of resistance and brain tissue motion in the symptomatology of CMI.
Prognostic impact of soluble PD-L1 derived from tumor-associated macrophages in non-small-cell lung cancer
Authors: Teramoto Koji , Igarashi Tomoyuki , Kataoka Yoko , Ishida Mitsuaki , Hanaoka Jun , Sumimoto Hidetoshi , Daigo Yataro
Published: August 2023

Programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) on tumor cells can be degraded to soluble form (sPD-L1) and enter circulation, however, the clinical significances of sPD-L1 in peripheral blood remains to be elucidated in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We monitored plasma sPD-L1 levels during perioperative periods and evaluated PD-L1-positive cells in tumor tissues in patients with operable NSCLC. Then the correlation between preoperative plasma sPD-L1 levels and relapse-free survival (RFS) was analyzed retrospectively. In patients who underwent radical surgery (n = 61), plasma sPD-L1 levels (median; 63.5 pg/mL) significantly increased 1 month after surgery (72.2 pg/mL, P < 0.001). The combined score of PD-L1-positive cells including tumor cells and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) was significantly associated with preoperative plasma sPD-L1 levels. In patients with high levels of preoperative plasma sPD-L1, the probability of 5-year RFS was significantly poor for patients with low PD-L1 expression intensity of tumor cells (tcPD-L1) compared with those with high tcPD-L1 (33.3% vs. 87.5%, respectively, P = 0.016; 95% CI, 0.013–0.964). In former group, PD-L1-positive TAMs were markedly infiltrating compared with those from latter group (246.4 vs. 76.6 counts/mm2, respectively, P = 0.003). In NSCLC, plasma sPD-L1 can reflect the accumulation of PD-L1-posotive TAMs, not just PD-L1-positive tumor cells. In patients with high levels of preoperative plasma sPD-L1, the prognoses after surgery depends on which PD-L1-positive cells, tumor cells or TAMs, are the primary source of the sPD-L1. Thus, measuring both plasma sPD-L1 levels and PD-L1 expression status of tumor cells and TAMs is of benefit for assessment of postoperative prognosis in operable NSCLC.
Fully automated computational measurement of noise in positron emission tomography
Authors: Sartoretti Thomas , Skawran Stephan , Gennari Antonio G. , Maurer Alexander , Euler André , Treyer Valerie , Sartoretti Elisabeth , Waelti Stephan , Schwyzer Moritz , von Schulthess Gustav K. , Burger Irene A. , Huellner Martin W. , Messerli Michael
Published: August 2023

Objectives

To introduce an automated computational algorithm that estimates the global noise level across the whole imaging volume of PET datasets.

Methods

[18F]FDG PET images of 38 patients were reconstructed with simulated decreasing acquisition times (15–120 s) resulting in increasing noise levels, and with block sequential regularized expectation maximization with beta values of 450 and 600 (Q.Clear 450 and 600). One reader performed manual volume-of-interest (VOI) based noise measurements in liver and lung parenchyma and two readers graded subjective image quality as sufficient or insufficient. An automated computational noise measurement algorithm was developed and deployed on the whole imaging volume of each reconstruction, delivering a single value representing the global image noise (Global Noise Index, GNI). Manual noise measurement values and subjective image quality gradings were compared with the GNI.

Results

Irrespective of the absolute noise values, there was no significant difference between the GNI and manual liver measurements in terms of the distribution of noise values (p = 0.84 for Q.Clear 450, and p = 0.51 for Q.Clear 600). The GNI showed a fair to moderately strong correlation with manual noise measurements in liver parenchyma (r = 0.6 in Q.Clear 450, r = 0.54 in Q.Clear 600, all p < 0.001), and a fair correlation with manual noise measurements in lung parenchyma (r = 0.52 in Q.Clear 450, r = 0.33 in Q.Clear 600, all p < 0.001). Classification performance of the GNI for subjective image quality was AUC 0.898 for Q.Clear 450 and 0.919 for Q.Clear 600.

Conclusion

An algorithm provides an accurate and meaningful estimation of the global noise level encountered in clinical PET imaging datasets.

Clinical relevance statement

An automated computational approach that measures the global noise level of PET imaging datasets may facilitate quality standardization and benchmarking of clinical PET imaging within and across institutions.

Key Points

• Noise is an important quantitative marker that strongly impacts image quality of PET images.

• An automated computational noise measurement algorithm provides an accurate and meaningful estimation of the global noise level encountered in clinical PET imaging datasets.

• An automated computational approach that measures the global noise level of PET imaging datasets may facilitate quality standardization and benchmarking as well as protocol harmonization.
Evaluation of standard breast ultrasonography by adding two-dimensional and three-dimensional shear wave elastography: a prospective, multicenter trial
Authors: Xu Jinshun , Zhang Lei , Wen Wen , He Yushuang , Wei Tianci , Zheng Yanling , Pan Xiaofang , Li Yuhong , Wu Yiyun , Dong Fenglin , Zhang Heqing , Cheng Wen , Xu Hongchun , Zhang Yingchun , Bao Lingyun , Zhang Xinguo , Tang Shichu , Liao Jintang , Luo Honghao , Zhao Haina , Tian Jiawei , Peng Yulan
Published: August 2023

Objective

To reduce the number of biopsies performed on benign breast lesions categorized as BI-RADS 4–5, we investigated the diagnostic performance of combined two-dimensional and three-dimensional shear wave elastography (2D + 3D SWE) with standard breast ultrasonography (US) for the BI-RADS assessment of breast lesions.

Methods

A total of 897 breast lesions, categorized as BI-RADS 3–5, were subjected to standard breast US and supplemented by 2D SWE only and 2D + 3D SWE analysis. Based on the malignancy rate of less than 2% for BI-RADS 3, lesions assessed by standard breast US were reclassified with SWE assessment.

Results

After standard breast US evaluation, 268 (46.1%) participants underwent benign biopsies in BI-RADS 4–5 lesions. By using separated cutoffs for upstaging BI-RADS 3 at 120 kPa and downstaging BI-RADS 4a at 90 kPa in 2D + 3D SWE reclassification, 123 (21.2%) participants underwent benign biopsy, resulting in a 54.1% reduction (123 versus 268).

Conclusion

Combining 2D + 3D SWE with standard breast US for reclassification of BI-RADS lesions may achieve a reduction in benign biopsies in BI-RADS 4–5 lesions without sacrificing sensitivity unacceptably.

Clinical relevance statement

Combining 2D + 3D SWE with US effectively reduces benign biopsies in breast lesions with categories 4–5, potentially improving diagnostic accuracy of BI-RADS assessment for patients with breast lesions.

Trial registration

ChiCTR1900026556

Key Points

• Reduce benign biopsy is necessary in breast lesions with BI-RADS 4–5 category.

• A reduction of 54.1% on benign biopsies in BI-RADS 4–5 lesions was achieved using 2D + 3D SWE reclassification.

• Adding 2D + 3D SWE to standard breast US improved the diagnostic performance of BI-RADS assessment on breast lesions: specificity increased from 54 to 79%, and PPV increased from 54 to 71%, with slight loss in sensitivity (97.2% versus 98.7%) and NPV (98.1% versus 98.7%).
Breast density and the likelihood of malignant MRI-detected lesions in women diagnosed with breast cancer
Authors: Sassi Antti , Salminen Annukka , Jukkola Arja , Tervo Maija , Mäenpää Niina , Turtiainen Saara , Tiainen Leena , Liimatainen Timo , Tolonen Teemu , Huhtala Heini , Rinta-Kiikka Irina , Arponen Otso
Published: August 2023

Objectives

To assess whether mammographic breast density in women diagnosed with breast cancer correlates with the total number of incidental magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-detected lesions and the likelihood of the lesions being malignant.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with breast cancer meeting the EUSOBI and EUSOMA criteria for preoperative breast MRI routinely undergo mammography and ultrasound before MRI at our institution. Incidental suspicious breast lesions detected in MRI are biopsied. We included patients diagnosed with invasive breast cancers between 2014 and 2019 who underwent preoperative breast MRI. One reader retrospectively determined breast density categories according to the 5th edition of the BI-RADS lexicon.

Results

Of 946 patients with 973 malignant primary breast tumors, 166 (17.5%) had a total of 175 (18.0%) incidental MRI-detected lesions (82 (46.9%) malignant and 93 (53.1%) benign). High breast density according to BI-RADS was associated with higher incidence of all incidental enhancing lesions in preoperative breast MRIs: 2.66 (95% confidence interval: 1.03–6.86) higher for BI-RADS density category B, 2.68 (1.04–6.92) for category C, and 3.67 (1.36–9.93) for category D compared to category A (p < 0.05). However, high breast density did not predict higher incidence of malignant incidental lesions (p = 0.741). Incidental MRI-detected lesions in the contralateral breast were more likely benign (p < 0.001): 18 (27.3%)/48 (72.7%) vs. 64 (58.7%)/45 (41.3%) malignant/benign incidental lesions in contralateral vs. ipsilateral breasts.

Conclusion

Women diagnosed with breast cancer who have dense breasts have more incidental MRI-detected lesions, but higher breast density does not translate to increased likelihood of malignant incidental lesions.

Clinical relevance statement

Dense breasts should not be considered as an indication for preoperative breast MRI in women diagnosed with breast cancer.

Key Points

• The role of preoperative MRI of patients with dense breasts diagnosed with breast cancer is under debate.

• Women with denser breasts have a higher incidence of all MRI-detected incidental breast lesions, but the incidence of malignant MRI-detected incidental lesions is not higher than in women with fatty breasts.

• High breast density alone should not indicate preoperative breast MRI.
CT acquisition parameter selection in the real world: impacts on radiation dose and variation amongst 155 institutions
Authors: Wang Yifei , Chu Philip , Szczykutowicz Timothy P. , Stewart Carly , Smith-Bindman Rebecca
Published: August 2023

Objective

Quantify the relationship between CT acquisition parameters and radiation dose, how often parameters are adjusted in real-world practice, and their degree of contribution to real-world dose distribution. Identify discrepancies between parameters that are impactful in theory and impactful in practice.

Methods

This study analyses 1.3 million consecutive adult routine abdomen exams performed between November 2015 and Jan 2021 included in the University of California, San Francisco International CT Dose Registry of 155 institutions. We calculated geometric standard deviation (gSD) for five parameters (kV, mAs, spiral pitch, number of phases, scan length) to assess variation in practice. A Gaussian mixed regression model was performed to predict the radiation dose-length product (DLP) using the parameters. Three conceptualizations of “impact” were computed for each parameter. To reflect the theoretical impact, we predict the increase in DLP per 10% (and 15%) increase in the parameter. To reflect the real-world practical impact, we predict the increase in DLP per gSD increase in the parameter.

Results

Among studied examinations, mAs, number of phases, and scan length were frequently manipulated (gSD 1.52–1.70); kV was rarely manipulated (gSD 1.07). Theoretically, kV is the most impactful parameter (29% increase in DLP per 10% increase in kV, versus 5–9% increase for other parameters). In real-world practice, kV is less impactful; for each gSD increase in kV, the DLP increases by 20%, versus 22–69% for other parameters.

Conclusion

Despite the potential impact of kV on radiation dose, this parameter is rarely manipulated in common practice and this potential remains untapped.

Clinical relevance statement

CT beam energy (kV) modulation has the potential to strongly reduce radiation over-dosage to the patient, theoretically more so than similar degrees of modulation in other CT acquisition parameters. Despite this, beam energy modulation rarely occurs in practice, leaving its potential untapped.

Key Points

• The relationship between CT acquisition parameter selection and radiation dose roughly coincided with established theoretical understanding.

• CT acquisition parameters differ from each other in frequency and magnitude of manipulation, with beam energy (kV) being rarely manipulated.

• Beam energy (kV) has the potential to substantially impact radiation dose, but because it is rarely manipulated, it is the least impactful CT acquisition parameter affecting radiation dose in practice.
Outcomes and potential impact of a virtual hands-on training program on MRI staging confidence and performance in rectal cancer
Authors: El Khababi Najim , Beets-Tan Regina G. H. , Tissier Renaud , Lahaye Max J. , Maas Monique , Curvo-Semedo Luís , Dresen Raphaëla C. , van Griethuysen Joost J. M. , Nougaret Stephanie , Beets Geerard L. , van Triest Baukelien , Taylor Stuart A. , Lambregts Doenja M. J.
Published: August 2023

Objectives

To explore the potential impact of a dedicated virtual training course on MRI staging confidence and performance in rectal cancer.

Methods

Forty-two radiologists completed a stepwise virtual training course on rectal cancer MRI staging composed of a pre-course (baseline) test with 7 test cases (5 staging, 2 restaging), a 1-day online workshop, 1 month of individual case readings (n = 70 cases with online feedback), a live online feedback session supervised by two expert faculty members, and a post-course test. The ESGAR structured reporting templates for (re)staging were used throughout the course. Results of the pre-course and post-course test were compared in terms of group interobserver agreement (Krippendorf’s alpha), staging confidence (perceived staging difficulty), and diagnostic accuracy (using an expert reference standard).

Results

Though results were largely not statistically significant, the majority of staging variables showed a mild increase in diagnostic accuracy after the course, ranging between + 2% and + 17%. A similar trend was observed for IOA which improved for nearly all variables when comparing the pre- and post-course. There was a significant decrease in the perceived difficulty level (p = 0.03), indicating an improved diagnostic confidence after completion of the course.

Conclusions

Though exploratory in nature, our study results suggest that use of a dedicated virtual training course and web platform has potential to enhance staging performance, confidence, and interobserver agreement to assess rectal cancer on MRI virtual training and could thus be a good alternative (or addition) to in-person training.

Clinical relevance statement

Rectal cancer MRI reporting quality is highly dependent on radiologists’ expertise, stressing the need for dedicated training/teaching. This study shows promising results for a virtual web-based training program, which could be a good alternative (or addition) to in-person training.

Key Points

• Rectal cancer MRI reporting quality is highly dependent on radiologists’ expertise, stressing the need for dedicated training and teaching.

• Using a dedicated virtual training course and web-based platform, encouraging first results were achieved to improve staging accuracy, diagnostic confidence, and interobserver agreement.

• These exploratory results suggest that virtual training could thus be a good alternative (or addition) to in-person training.
Analysis of inflammatory markers and tau deposits in an autopsy series of nine patients with anti-IgLON5 disease
Authors: Berger-Sieczkowski Evelyn , Endmayr Verena , Haider Carmen , Ricken Gerda , Jauk Philipp , Macher Stefan , Pirker Walter , Högl Birgit , Heidbreder Anna , Schnider Peter , Bradley-Zechmeister Eszter , Mariotto Sara , Koneczny Inga , Reinecke Raphael , Kasprian Gregor , Weber Corinna , Bergmann Melanie , Milenkovic Ivan , Berger Thomas , Gaig Carles , Sabater Lidia , Graus Francesc , Gelpi Ellen , Höftberger Romana
Published: August 2023

Anti-IgLON5 disease is a rare neurological, probably autoimmune, disorder associated in many cases with a specific tauopathy. Only a few post-mortem neuropathological studies have been reported so far. Little is known about the pathogenic mechanisms that result in neurodegeneration. We investigated the neuropathology of anti-IgLON5 disease and characterized cellular and humoral inflammation. We included nine cases (six of them previously published). Median age of patients was 71 years (53–82 years), the median disease duration was 6 years (0.5–13 years), and the female to male ratio was 5:4. Six cases with a median disease duration of 9 years presented a prominent tauopathy. Five of them had a classical anti-IgLON5-related brainstem tauopathy and another presented a prominent neuronal and glial 4-repeat tauopathy, consistent with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP). Three cases with short disease duration (median 1.25 years) only showed a primary age-related neurofibrillary pathology. Inflammatory infiltrates of T and B cells were mild to moderate and did not significantly differ between anti-IgLON5 disease cases with or without tauopathy. In contrast, we found an extensive neuropil deposition of IgG4 in the tegmentum of the brainstem, olivary nucleus, and cerebellar cortex that was most prominent in two patients with short disease duration without the typical IgLON5-related tauopathy. The IgG4 deposits were particularly prominent in the cerebellar cortex and in these regions accompanied by mild IgG1 deposits. Activated complement deposition (C9neo) was absent. Our study indicates that IgLON5-related tau pathology occurs in later disease stages and may also present a PSP-phenotype with exclusively 4-repeat neuronal and glial tau pathology. The prominent deposition of anti-IgLON5 IgG4 at predilection sites for tau pathology suggests that anti-IgLON5 antibodies precede the tau pathology. Early start of immunotherapy might prevent irreversible neuronal damage and progression of the disease, at least in a subgroup of patients.
A mini-invasive surgical technique for Carlevale IOL implantation: case series study and description of concomitant surgery
Authors: Danese Carla , Di Bin Francesco , Lanzetta Paolo
Published: August 2023

Purpose

To examine the feasibility and outcomes of a modified technique for the implantation of scleral fixated Carlevale intraocular lens (IOL) (I71 FIL SSF. Soleko IOL Division, Pontecorvo, Italy), and to analyze the occurrence of adverse events.

Methods

This is a retrospective observational study conducted revising patients charts from 2018 to 2023. Thirty-five eyes of 33 patients were included. Patients requiring IOL explantation had either IOL dislocation or opacification. The implantation of the Carlevale IOL was performed with the subconjunctival positioning of the anchors without any scleral flap. All maneuvers were performed transconjunctivally. The anatomical outcomes considered were IOL positioning, and the absence of postoperative complications. The functional outcomes analyzed were best correctedvisual acuity (BCVA) and refraction.

Results

In all the cases, the IOL was well positioned and centered postoperatively. No cases of conjunctival erosion were recorded. The best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 0.9±0.6 logMar (mean±standard deviation) preoperatively and 0.5±0.5 logMar (mean±standard deviation) postoperatively. The mean preoperative spherical equivalent was +6.8±7.7 dioptres, while postoperatively it was -1.1±1.6 dioptres. The most frequent procedure associated to secondary IOL implantation was posterior vitrectomy (25 eyes, 71.4%), which was performed with 25-gauge transconjunctival cannulas in the ciliary sulcus. The follow-up period was 24.5±16.9 months (mean±standard deviation).

Conclusion

The described mini-invasive technique for Carlevale IOL implantation is safe and effective. It can be recommended either as a stand-alone operation or associated to concurrent surgical procedures.
Constructing childhood depression: a qualitative study with international experts in child psychiatry
Authors: Rayapoullé Alexis , de Chassey Marine , Benoit Laelia , Hassler Christine , Falissard Bruno
Published: August 2023

After decades of controversy, the concept of childhood depression now seems to be part of standard medical knowledge. Yet the form and content of this nosological entity, like many psychiatric diseases, is continuously shaped by the scientific, clinical, and political communities involved in child psychiatry. In this qualitative study, we explored how the concept of childhood depression is constructed in early twenty-first century child psychiatry. We conducted a series of 18 interviews with practising child psychiatrists, international experts in the field, and interpreted them with thematic analysis informed by discourse analysis. We identified five overarching discourse themes across interviews, relating to the definition of depression, the diagnostic process, the causes of this condition, the therapeutic strategy, and the scientific role of child psychiatry. Most participants agreed that childhood depression was a mental disorder where irritability prevailed, heavily influenced by psychosocial factors, and for which psychotherapy was the ideal treatment. However, subtle points of dissent also surfaced: whether depression is primarily a mood state or psychological suffering, whether categories or dimensions are more suitable to make the diagnosis, and whether there is a genetic predisposition were some of the most controversial topics. Theoretical considerations regarding childhood depression may have significant scientific, moral, and socio-political implications beyond child psychiatry and should be addressed appropriately.
Theory and kinetic modeling of electrochemical cation-coupled electron transfer reactions
Authors: Koper Marc T. M.
Published: August 2023

A simple Hamiltonian Marcus-type model for cation-coupled electron transfer reactions is introduced, and an expression for the activation energy is derived. The expression is mathematically similar to the classical Frumkin correction. The model explains how cations lower the activation energy for the Volmer reaction in alkaline media and how cations help stabilizing the first intermediate in electrochemical CO2 reduction. The second part of the paper introduces the cation effect in a more empirical way in an effective rate law and shows how coupling to local pH changes and the corresponding interfacial cation concentration leads to deviations from the standard Butler-Volmer behavior and to non-linear Tafel plots.
Simulation of groundwater flow and seawater intrusion in response to climate change and human activities on the coastal aquifer of Gaza Strip, Palestine
Authors: Musallam Iyad , Zhou Yangxiao , Jewitt Graham
Published: August 2023

This study has investigated the potential impact of human activities and climate change on the groundwater budget, water levels, and seawater intrusion in the coastal aquifer of the Gaza Strip (State of Palestine) over the next two decades. The impact of a proposed measure to use alternative freshwater provision from desalinated seawater on the future groundwater quantity and quality was also analyzed. Following extensive analysis of available observed data, a three-dimensional groundwater flow model, coupled with variable-density saltwater flow and transport components, was utilized for the investigations. Compared with the benchmark scenario (SC0), the climate change scenario (SC1) suggests that over the next two decades, an average annual aquifer recharge of 6.3 Mm3 can be expected, while the human activities scenario (SC2) indicates that the groundwater levels will decline at a rate of 0.09 m/year with expected urban area expansion. The combined human activities and climate change scenario (SC3) indicate severe groundwater storage depletion and seawater intrusion over the next two decades. The alternative freshwater provision scenario (SC4) indicates a strongly positive response in groundwater recovery (quantity and quality) over the next decades. The findings of this study emphasize strongly that the human activity impact, rather than climate change, is the driving force of groundwater depletion and that groundwater recovery interventions will be crucial in the future and should be implemented urgently.
The impacts of working from home on individual health and well-being
Authors: Denzer Manuel , Grunau Philipp
Published: August 2023

Using a novel German linked employer–employee dataset, we provide unique evidence about the consequences of working from home (WfH) on individual health and well-being. During the recent pandemic, this locational flexibility measure has been used extensively to promote health by hampering the spread of the virus and to secure jobs. However, its direct theoretical ambiguous effects on health and well-being as characterized by different potential channels have barely been empirically investigated to date despite WfH’s increasing popularity in the years before the pandemic. To address concerns about selection into WfH in our dataset that is unaffected by the COVID-19 shock, our analysis relies on an identification strategy ruling out confounding effects by time-invariant unobservable variables. Moreover, we explain the remaining (intertemporal) variation in the individual WfH status by means of an instrumental variable strategy using variation in equipment with mobile devices among establishments. We find that subjective measures of individual health are partly affected by WfH, whereas no corresponding effect is present for an objective measure of individual health. In terms of individual well-being, we find that WfH leads to considerable improvement. By addressing the potential heterogeneity in our effect of interest, we find that men and middle-aged individuals particularly benefit from WfH.
Sociomaterial perspective as applied in interprofessional education and collaborative practice: a scoping review
Authors: Sy Michael , Siongco Kathryn Lizbeth , Pineda Roi Charles , Canalita Rainier , Xyrichis Andreas
Published: August 2023

Learning and working together towards better health outcomes today have become more complex requiring an investigation on how interprofessional education (IPE) and interprofessional collaboration (IPC) practices could be sustained and further developed. Through a sociomaterial perspective, we can better understand IPE and IPC practices by foregrounding the material aspect of learning and working together and examining its relationship with humans and their interactions. This article aimed to examine existing literature that discusses the application of sociomaterial perspectives in IPE and IPC. A scoping review was conducted following Arksey and O’Malley’s framework to explore the extent within the current body of knowledge that discuss how sociomaterial perspective is applied in IPE and IPC practices. A systematic database search was performed in September 2021 to retrieve literature published from 2007 onwards, with forty-three papers meeting the inclusion criteria. These papers included research articles, book chapters, conference papers and commentaries, with the majority originating from Europe. The thematic analysis revealed the following themes: (1) power as a sociomaterial entity shaping IPE and IPC; (2) inclusion of non-health professionals in reimagining IPE and IPC practices, and (3) the critical understanding of sociomateriality. The findings suggest that a sociomaterial perspective can allow for the reimagination of the contemporary and future practices of interprofessionalism.
Effects of Rhythm Control for Atrial Fibrillation on Cardiac Remodeling and Valvular Regurgitation in Patients with Heart Failure
Authors: Si Jinping , Ding Zijie , Chen Xuefu , Bai Lin , Sun Yuxi , Zhang Xinxin , Zhang Yanli , Xia Yunlong , Liu Ying
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Previous studies investigating cardiac remodeling and functional regurgitation of rhythm control for atrial fibrillation (AF) in heart failure (HF) are limited. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the impact of rhythm control for AF on cardiac remodeling and functional regurgitation in the spectrum of HF. Its effect on prognosis was explored.

Methods

According to the treatment strategies of AF, the cohort was classified into the rhythm control and rate control groups. To further detect the implications of rhythm control on cardiac remodeling, functional regurgitation, and outcomes in HF subtypes, patients were further divided into HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), HF with mildly reduced ejection fraction, and HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) subgroups.

Results

A total of 828 patients were enrolled, with 307 patients in the rhythm control group and 521 patients in the rate control group. Over a median follow-up time of 3.8 years, patients with rhythm control treatments experienced improvements in biatrial structure parameters, left ventricular ejection fraction, and functional regurgitation (mitral and tricuspid regurgitation) compared with rate control treatment (p < 0.05). Cox regression analysis demonstrated that rhythm control reduced the risks of all-cause mortality (HR 0.436 [95% CI, 0.218–0.871], p = 0.019) in HFpEF and HF-related admissions in HFrEF (HR 0.500 [95% CI, 0.330–0.757], p = 0.001) and HFpEF (HR 0.541 [95% CI, 0.407–0.720], p < 0.001); these associations were similar after adjusting for multiple confounders.

Conclusions

Rhythm control therapy can be considered an appropriate treatment strategy for the management of AF in HF to improve cardiac remodeling, functional regurgitation, and prognosis.
Imidazolinium Salts for the Carbonates Production from CO2 and Epoxides
Authors: Zítová Kateřina , Hudcová Markéta , Lhotka Miloslav , Vyskočilová Eliška
Published: August 2023

Novel imidazolinium based materials were prepared by modification of MCM-41 and characterized by elemental analysis, nitrogen sorption, thermogravimetric analysis, UV–Vis, and X‑ray diffraction. The materials differed in the alkyl, or halide used (MeI, EtBr, PrI, BuBr, BuCl, and BnBr). The characterization methods confirmed the successful formation of desired materials containing iodide and bromide. In this research, the materials were examined as catalysts for the cycloaddition of carbon dioxide to styrene oxide to produce styrene carbonate. The influence of anion type and the length of the alkyl chain in the salt was discussed. The results show imidazolinium materials as efficient heterogeneous catalysts for the model reaction. Styrene carbonate was prepared with high selectivities in all cases. The highest conversion of styrene oxide (95%) was achieved using a material containing iodomethane (MCM-Im-MeI) under the following conditions: 1.2 MPa, 120 °C, solvent free. The catalysts were successfully reused without a significant decrease of their activity.

Graphical Abstract
How Much Will Climate Change Reduce Productivity in a High-Technology Supply Chain? Evidence from Silicon Wafer Manufacturing
Authors: Chen Jingnan , Fonseca Miguel A. , Heyes Anthony , Yang Jie , Zhang Xiaohui
Published: August 2023

The frequency of hot days in much of the world is increasing. What is the impact of high temperatures on productivity? Can technology-based adaptation mitigate such effects of climate change? We provide some answers to these questions by examining how high outdoor temperatures affect a high-technology, precision manufacturing setting. Exploiting individual-level data on the quantity and quality of work done across 35,190 worker-shifts in a leading NYSE-listed silicon wafer maker in China, we evidence a negative effect of outdoor heat on productivity. The effects are large: in our preferred linear specification, an increase in wet bulb temperature of $$10\,^{\circ }$$

10

∘

C causes a reduction in output of 8.3%. Temperature effects exist even though the manufacturer’s work-spaces are indoors and protected by high-quality climate control systems. Results are not driven by extreme weather events and are robust to alternative modelling approaches. They illustrate the potential future adverse economic effects of climate change in most of the industrialised world.
Mercury distribution in plants and soils from the former mining area of Abbadia San Salvatore (Tuscany, Central Italy)
Authors: Meloni Federica , Farieri Alessandro , Higueras Pablo L. , Esbrí José M. , Nisi Barbara , Cabassi Jacopo , Rappuoli Daniele , Vaselli Orlando
Published: August 2023

The distribution of heavy metals in plants (Castanea sativa, Sambucus nigra, Verbascum thapsus, Popolus spp., Salix spp., Acer pseudoplatanus, Robinia pseudoacacia) growing in soils from active and abandoned mining areas is of scientific significance as it allows to recognize their ability to survive in a hostile environment and provide useful indications for phytoremediation operations. In this work, soils from the former Hg-mining area of Abbadia San Salvatore (Tuscany, Central Italy) were analyzed for total, leached Hg, % of organic and inorganic-related Hg. The dehydrogenase enzyme activity (DHA) was also measured with the aim to evaluate the status of the soil, being characterized by high Hg contents (up to 1068 mg kg−1). Eventually, the concentration of Hg in the different parts of the plants growing on these soils was also determined. Most studied soils were dominated by inorganic Hg (up to 92%) while the DHA concentrations were < 151 µg TPF g−1 day−1, suggesting that the presence of Hg is not significantly affecting the enzymatic soil activity. This is also supported by the bioaccumulation factor (BF), being predominantly characterized by values < 1. Sambucus nigra and Verbascum thapsus had the highest Hg contents (39.42 and 54.54 mg kg−1, respectively). The plant leaves appear to be the main pathways of Hg uptake, as also observed in other mining areas, e.g., Almadèn (Spain), indicating that particulate-Hg and Hg0 are the main forms entering the plant system, the latter derived by the GEM emitted by both the edifices hosting the roasting furnaces and the soils themselves.
Models to Analyze Risk in Time and Cost Estimation of Tunneling Projects
Authors: Mohammadi Mohammad , Spross Johan , Stille Håkan
Published: August 2023

Time and cost estimation of tunneling projects is usually performed in a deterministic manner. However, because the deterministic approach is not capable of dealing with uncertainty, probabilistic methods have been developed over the years to better account for this problem. Three models of this type are the Decision Aids for Tunneling (DAT) and two models developed at KTH Royal Institute of Technology and the Czech Technical University in Prague. To conduct a probabilistic time and cost estimation, it is important to understand and account for not only the uncertain factors that affect the project time and cost but also the involved parties’ different interests and contractual responsibilities. This paper develops a risk model for the specific purpose of time and cost estimation of tunneling projects. In light of this model, the practical application of the three probabilistic models is discussed from a risk-aware decision-maker’s perspective. The acquired insights can be helpful in increasing the experts’ risk-awareness in modeling time and cost of tunneling projects.