bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Head-to-head comparison of [11C]methionine PET, [11C]choline PET, and 4-dimensional CT as second-line scans for detection of parathyroid adenomas in primary hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Noltes Milou E. , Kruijff Schelto , Appelman Auke P. A. , Jansen Liesbeth , Zandee Wouter T. , Links Thera P. , van Hemel Bettien M. , Schouw Hugo M. , Dierckx Rudi A. J. O. , Francken Anne Brecht , Kelder Wendy , van der Hoorn Anouk , Brouwers Adrienne H.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Accurate preoperative localization is imperative to guide surgery in primary hyperparathyroidism (pHPT). It remains unclear which second-line imaging technique is most effective after negative first-line imaging. In this study, we compare the diagnostic effectiveness of [11C]methionine PET/CT, [11C]choline PET/CT, and four dimensional (4D)-CT head-to-head in patients with pHPT, to explore which of these imaging techniques to use as a second-line scan.

Methods

We conducted a powered, prospective, blinded cohort study in patients with biochemically proven pHPT and prior negative or discordant first-line imaging consisting of ultrasonography and 99mTc-sestamibi. All patients underwent [11C]methionine PET/CT, [11C]choline PET/CT, and 4D-CT. At first, all scans were interpreted by a nuclear medicine physician, and a radiologist who were blinded from patient data and all imaging results. Next, a non-blinded scan reading was performed. The scan results were correlated with surgical and histopathological findings. Serum calcium values at least 6 months after surgery were used as gold standard for curation of HPT.

Results

A total of 32 patients were included in the study. With blinded evaluation, [11C]choline PET/CT was positive in 28 patients (88%), [11C]methionine PET/CT in 23 (72%), and 4D-CT in 15 patients (47%), respectively. In total, 30 patients have undergone surgery and 32 parathyroid lesions were histologically confirmed as parathyroid adenomas. Based on the blinded evaluation, lesion-based sensitivity of [11C]choline PET/CT, [11C]methionine PET/CT, and 4D-CT was respectively 85%, 67%, and 39%. The sensitivity of [11C]choline PET/CT differed significantly from that of [11C]methionine PET/CT and 4D-CT (p = 0.031 and p < 0.0005, respectively).

Conclusion

In the setting of pHPT with negative first-line imaging, [11C]choline PET/CT is superior to [11C]methionine PET/CT and 4D-CT in localizing parathyroid adenomas, allowing correct localization in 85% of adenomas. Further studies are needed to determine cost–benefit and efficacy of these scans, including the timing of these scans as first- or second-line imaging techniques.
Iodine density mapping for the diagnosis of acute bowel ischemia using fast kV-switching dual-energy CT
Authors: Xu Jack Junchi , Ulriksen Peter Sommer , Jawad Samir , Rohde Yecatarina Zincuk , Sejer Morten , Achiam Michael Patrick , Resch Timothy Andrew , Lönn Lars , Hansen Kristoffer Lindskov
Published: November 2023

Purpose

To evaluate the diagnostic capabilities of a supplementary color ramped iodine density map compared to virtual monoenergetic images (VMIs) at 74 keV in the diagnosis of acute bowel ischemia (ABI).

Methods

Data for this study were prospectively gathered and retrospectively evaluated. Patients referred to the Department of Diagnostic Radiology between October 2020 and August 2022 on the suspicion of ABI and underwent surgery < 12 h following fast kV-switching venous phase abdominal dual-energy CT (DECT) were consecutively included. Images were evaluated by two board-certified radiologists and two radiology residents. First round included only 74 keV VMIs resembling conventional 120 kVp images, and the second round included a supplementary iodine density map. Readers were asked to register presence of ABI as well as their confidence in their diagnosis based on a 5-point Likert scale. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) were calculated for each observer with the surgical findings as the gold-standard. McNemar’s and Wilcoxon signed-rank test were used to compare registrations and diagnostic confidence across assessment rounds.

Results

A total of 29 patients resulting in 31 DECT scans were included. Fourteen cases of ischemic/necrotic bowel were reported following surgery. Sensitivity and NPV were decreased with the use of supplementary iodine map images compared to 120 kVp-like images without supplementary iodine map images for three of four observers (round 1 range: 71.4–92.9% and 78.0–94.8%; round 2 range: 57.1–78.6% and 70.1–83.3%, respectively), while specificity and PPV were increased for three of four observers (round 1 range: 64.7–94.1% and 67.4–93.1%; round 2 range: 88.2–94.1% and 73.8–91.1%, respectively). However, no significant difference in ABI diagnosis or diagnostic confidence was found (p-value range: 0.07–1.00 and 0.23–0.58, respectively).

Conclusion

No significant difference for the diagnosis of ABI was found using supplementary iodine mapping. Our study may suggest a trend of increased specificity and decreased sensitivity, hence, the use of supplementary iodine mapping should be carefully considered.
A network analysis-based framework to understand the representation dynamics of graph neural networks
Authors: Bonifazi Gianluca , Cauteruccio Francesco , Corradini Enrico , Marchetti Michele , Ursino Domenico , Virgili Luca
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we propose a framework that uses the theory and techniques of (Social) Network Analysis to investigate the learned representations of a Graph Neural Network (GNN, for short). Our framework receives a graph as input and passes it to the GNN to be investigated, which returns suitable node embeddings. These are used to derive insights on the behavior of the GNN through the application of (Social) Network Analysis theory and techniques. The insights thus obtained are employed to define a new training loss function, which takes into account the differences between the graph received as input by the GNN and the one reconstructed from the node embeddings returned by it. This measure is finally used to improve the performance of the GNN. In addition to describe the framework in detail and compare it with related literature, we present an extensive experimental campaign that we conducted to validate the quality of the results obtained.
Potential of computational models in personalized treatment of obstructive sleep apnea: a patient-specific partial 3D finite element study
Authors: Ayyalasomayajula Venkat , Moxness Mads , Skallerud Bjørn
Published: November 2023

The upper airway experiences mechanical loads during breathing. Obstructive sleep apnea is a very common sleep disorder, in which the normal function of the airway is compromised, enabling its collapse. Its treatment remains unsatisfactory with variable efficacy in the case of many surgeries. Finite element models of the upper airway to simulate the effects of various anatomic and physiologic manipulations on its mechanics could be helpful in predicting surgical success. Partial 3D finite element models based on patient-specific CT-scans were undertaken in a pilot study of 5 OSA patients. Upper airway soft tissues including the soft palate, hard palate, tongue, and pharyngeal wall were segmented around the midsagittal plane up to a width of 2.5 cm in the lateral direction. Simulations of surgical interventions such as Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), maxillo-mandibular advancement (MMA), palatal implants, and tongue implants have been performed. Our results showed that maxillo-mandibular advancement (MMA) surgery of 1 cm improved the critical closing pressure by at least 212.2%. Following MMA, the best improvement was seen via uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), with an improvement of at least 19.12%. Palatal and tongue implants also offered a certain degree of improvement. Further, we observed possible interacting mechanisms that suggested simultaneous implementation of UPPP and tongue stiffening; and palatal and tongue stiffening could be beneficial. Our results suggest that computational modeling is a useful tool for analyzing the influence of anatomic and physiological manipulations on upper airway mechanics. The goal of personalized treatment in the case of OSA could be achieved with the use of computational modeling.
Anticancer effect of hUC-MSC-derived exosome-mediated delivery of PMO-miR-146b-5p in colorectal cancer
Authors: Yu Siming , Liao Ran , Bai Lu , Guo Madi , Zhang Yu , Zhang Yumin , Yang Qi , Song Yushuai , Li Zhiwei , Meng Qingwei , Wang Shubin , Huang Xiaoyi
Published: November 2023

Antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) is a novel therapeutic platform for targeted cancer therapy. Previously, we have demonstrated that miR-146b-5p plays an important role in colorectal cancer progression. However, a safe and effective strategy for delivery of an ASO to its targeted RNA remains as a major hurdle in translational advances. Human umbilical cord mesenchymal cell (hUC-MSC)–derived exosomes were used as vehicles to deliver an anti-miR-146b-5p ASO (PMO-146b). PMO-146b was assembled onto the surface of exosomes (e) through covalent conjugation to an anchor peptide CP05 (P) that recognized an exosomal surface marker, CD63, forming a complex named ePPMO-146b. After ePPMO-146b treatment, cell proliferation, uptake ability, and migration assays were performed, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition progression was evaluated in vitro. A mouse xenograft model was used to determine the antitumor effect and distribution of ePPMO-146b in vivo. ePPMO-146b was taken up by SW620 cells and effectively inhibited cell proliferation and migration. The conjugate also exerted antitumor efficacy in a xenograft mouse model of colon cancer by systematic administration, where PPMO-146b was enriched in tumor tissue. Our study highlights the potential of hUC-MSC-derived exosomes anchored with PPMO-146b as a novel safe and effective approach for PMO backboned ASO delivery.

Graphical Abstract

Schematic illustration of the preparation of an exosomal anchor peptide (CP05)-PMO that conjugately binds to exosomes from hUC-MSCs (ePPMO-146b) and the antitumor effect of ePPMO-146b in CRC, which occurs through the inhibition of Smad signaling and epithelial–mesenchymal transition.
A novel twin branch network based on mutual training strategy for ship detection in SAR images
Authors: Lv Yilong , Li Min , He Yujie
Published: November 2023

There are inconsistent tasks and insufficient training in the SAR ship detection model, which severely limit the detection performance of the model. Therefore, we propose a twin branch network and design two loss functions: regression reverse convergence loss and classification mutual learning loss. The twin branch network is a simple but effective method containing two components: twin regression network and twin classification network. Aiming at the inconsistencies between training and testing in regression branches, we propose a regression reverse convergence loss (RRC Loss) based on twin regression networks. This loss can make multiple training samples in the twin regression branch converge to the label from the opposite direction. In this way, the test distribution can be closer to the training distribution after processing. For inadequate training in classification branch, Inspired by knowledge distillation, we construct self-knowledge distillation using a twin classification network. Meanwhile, our proposed classification mutual learning loss (CML Loss) enables the twin classification network not only to conduct supervised learning based on the label but also to learn from each other. Experiments on SSDD and HRSID datasets prove that, compared with the original method, the proposed method can improve the AP by 2.7–4.9% based on different backbone networks, and the detection performance is better than other advanced algorithms.
Instability of Gravitational and Electromagnetic Perturbations of Extremal Reissner–Nordström Spacetime
Authors: Apetroaie Marios Antonios
Published: November 2023

We study the linear stability problem to gravitational and electromagnetic perturbations of the extremal, $$ |Q|=M, $$

|
Q
|
=
M
,

Reissner–Nordström spacetime, as a solution to the Einstein–Maxwell equations. Our work uses and extends the framework [28, 32] of Giorgi, and contrary to the subextremal case we prove that instability results hold for a set of gauge invariant quantities along the event horizon $$ {\mathcal {H}}^+ $$

H

+

. In particular, for associated quantities shown to satisfy generalized Regge–Wheeler equations we prove decay, non-decay, and polynomial blow-up estimates asymptotically along $$ {\mathcal {H}}^+ $$

H

+

, the exact behavior depending on the number of translation invariant derivatives that we take. As a consequence, we show that for generic initial data, solutions to the generalized Teukolsky system of positive and negative spin satisfy both stability and instability results. It is worth mentioning that the negative spin solutions are significantly more unstable, with the extreme curvature component $$ {\underline{\alpha }} $$

α
̲

not decaying asymptotically along the event horizon $$ {\mathcal {H}}^+, $$

H

+

,

a result previously unknown in the literature.
Standardisation efforts of ISO/TC 261 “additive manufacturing” 22nd plenary meeting of ISO/TC 261 “additive manufacturing”
Authors: Pei Eujin , Lakomiec Marius
Published: November 2023

The main objective of ISO/TC 261 is to standardize the processes of Additive Manufacturing, the process chains (Data, Materials, Processes, Hard- and Software, Applications), test procedures, quality parameters, supply agreements, environment, health and safety, fundamentals and vocabularies. This section provides readers with news regarding standardisation efforts of ISO/TC 261. Further up-to-date information regarding recently published documents, such as new standards, revised standards, the status of standards can be found in the ISO/TC261 webpages: https://www.iso.org/committee/629086.html and from the committee webpages: https://committee.iso.org/sites/tc261/home/news.html.
Using a Bayesian approach to reconstruct graph statistics after edge sampling
Authors: Arnold Naomi A. , Mondragón Raúl J. , Clegg Richard G.
Published: November 2023

Often, due to prohibitively large size or to limits to data collecting APIs, it is not possible to work with a complete network dataset and sampling is required. A type of sampling which is consistent with Twitter API restrictions is uniform edge sampling. In this paper, we propose a methodology for the recovery of two fundamental network properties from an edge-sampled network: the degree distribution and the triangle count (we estimate the totals for the network and the counts associated with each edge). We use a Bayesian approach and show a range of methods for constructing a prior which does not require assumptions about the original network. Our approach is tested on two synthetic and three real datasets with diverse sizes, degree distributions, degree-degree correlations and triangle count distributions.
A Novel Equation of Motion to Predict Elastoplastic Deformation of 1-D Stochastic Bars
Authors: Desai Shivang
Published: November 2023

Based on stochasticity in local and nonlocal deformation-gamuts, a stochastic nonlocal equation of motion to model elastoplastic deformation of 1-D bars made of stochastic materials is proposed in this study. Stochasticity in the energy-densities as well as energy-states across the spatial domain of given material and stochasticity in the deformation-gamuts parameters are considered, and their physical interpretations are discussed. Numerical simulations of the specimens of two distinct materials, subjected to monotonic as well as cyclic loadings, are carried out. Specimens are discretized using stochastic as well as uniform grids. Thirty realizations of each stochastic process are considered. The mean values of the results from all realizations are found to be in good agreement with deterministic values, theoretical estimations and experimental results published in open literature.
Hydrological risk assessment for Mangla Dam: compound effects of instant flow and precipitation peaks under climate change, using HEC-RAS and HEC-GeoRAS
Authors: Ahmad Izhar , Waseem Muhammad , Ashraf Ammar , Leta Megersa Kebede , Ahmad Sareer , Wahab Hira
Published: November 2023

Dams play a pivotal role in water resource management by storing and supplying water for a multitude of purposes. However, the looming threat of dam breach floods necessitates meticulous research and the simulation of potential failure scenarios. These endeavors are essential not only for comprehending the gravity of dam break floods but also for identifying vulnerable regions and informing emergency response strategies and land-use planning initiatives. This study employs a two-dimensional hydraulic model within the HEC-RAS (Hydrologic Engineering Center and River Analysis System) software to conduct an extensive dam breach analysis specifically focusing on the Mangla Dam located in Azad Kashmir, Pakistan. The analysis encompasses the prediction of various breach parameters, including the hydrograph of the breach flood, peak flow rates, arrival times of the flood, and the creation of inundation maps. Of primary concern is the Probable Maximum Floo, which drives the dam collapse model under unsteady flow conditions, accounting for both piping and overtopping failure scenarios. This study discerns the breach outflow hydrograph through the utility of HEC-RAS tools and evaluates hydraulic conditions at critical downstream locations. To dynamically route flood waves, the breach outflow hydrographs are harnessed. Furthermore, the HEC-RAS model is executed with breach parameters derived from five distinct empirical approaches, with ensuing outcomes subjected to rigorous comparative analysis. A comprehensive sensitivity study pertaining to breach parameters is also carried out to ascertain the sensitivity of peak flow and maximum stage. The results reveal peak flow rates of 174,850 m3/s and 177,850 m3/s in the downstream vicinity adjacent to the dam, translating into corresponding flooded areas of 379 km2 and 394 km2 attributable to piping and overtopping failures, respectively. The analysis of Land Use Land Cover data demonstrates that in the event of piping failure, 217 km2 of agricultural land and 56 km2 of urban areas would be completely submerged. Conversely, overtopping failure would inundate 220 km2 of agricultural land and 59 km2 of urban areas. The utilization of advanced remote sensing data, combined with flood modeling insights, equips engineers and stakeholders with invaluable knowledge. This knowledge, in turn, underpins strategic planning and well-informed decision-making processes, essential for addressing the potential global repercussions of similar catastrophes.
Novel deep learning models for yoga pose estimator
Authors: Talaat Amira Samy
Published: November 2023

Yoga pose recognition and correction are artificial intelligent techniques to provide standardized and appropriate yoga poses. Incorrect yoga poses can cause serious injuries and long-term complications. Analyzing human posture can identify and rectify abnormal positions, improving well-being at home. A posture estimator extracts yoga asana attributes from properly represented images. These extracted features are then utilized directly as inputs for various neural networks and machine learning models. These models serve the purpose of evaluating and predicting the accuracy of specific yoga poses. The objective of this research is to explore multiple methods for classifying yoga poses. The LGDeep model is introduced, which combines a novel residual convolutional neural network with three deep learning approaches: Xception, VGGNet, and SqueezeNet. Additionally, the LGDeep model incorporates feature extraction methods such as LDA and GDA. Experimental results demonstrate that the LGDeep classifier outperforms other approaches and achieves the highest classification accuracy ratio.
Mechatronic design of a composite vibration isolation system
Authors: Ghoneam Sobhy M. , Hamada Ahmed A. , Elkholy Ahmed M.
Published: November 2023

Composite materials have attracted researchers in vibration and noise control applications due to their significant dynamic characteristics such as high strength and high damping level. In this paper, a Glass Fiber Reinforced Composite material (GFRC) is presented as a vibration isolation system to control vibration levels in industry. In addition, the impact of integration of a mechatronic control system to improve the machining process and increase the control of vibration nature. A prototype of an industrial cam–follower machine is motorized, and the Frequency Response Function (FRF) is recorded using a B&K data acquisition analyzer at five rotational speeds. The transmitted vibrations to the machine foundation are estimated without any isolation system. Then, two optimized GFRC plates of optimum stacking sequences are used as an isolation system to reduce the transmitted vibration. The displacement transmissibility is calculated theoretically and experimentally. The results show that the use of GFRC plates as an isolator reduces the vibration level of the system by 98.46% and 98.5% for [90/90/90/0/0]s and [90/ ± 45/ ± 35/90/ ± 35]s GFRC configurations respectively.
Gibt es eine Zweite-Person-Perspektive als eigenständigen epistemischen Zugang zur Fremdpsyche?
Authors: Disse Jörg
Published: November 2023

In der Intersubjektivitätsforschung kursiert die Idee einer Zweite-Person-Perspektive als eigenständiger epistemischer Zugang zu psychischen Phänomenen. In Auseinandersetzung mit den Ansätzen von Michael Pauen und Thomas Fuchs möchte ich aufweisen, dass es nicht sinnvoll ist, neben den etablierten Erste- und Dritte-Person-Perspektiven eine Zweite-Person-Perspektive einzuführen. Ausgehend von der Annahme, dass Perspektiven sich ausschließlich durch die Mittel, durch die unterschiedlichen Erfahrungskanäle und nicht durch die Beziehung auf unterschiedliche Gegenstandsbereiche sinnvoll voneinander unterscheiden, wird gezeigt, dass sowohl Pauen als auch Fuchs die Zweite-Person-Perspektive letztlich als die Beziehung zu einem bestimmten Gegenstandsbereich verstehen, und dass zugleich von einem eigenständigen Erfahrungskanal neben denen der Ersten- und Dritten-Person-Perspektive nicht sinnvoll die Rede sein kann.
Reduced grey matter volume in adolescents with conduct disorder: a region-of-interest analysis using multivariate generalized linear modeling
Authors: Zhang Ru , Blair R. James R. , Blair Karina S. , Dobbertin Matthew , Elowsky Jaimie , Bashford-Largo Johannah , Dominguez Ahria J. , Hatch Melissa , Bajaj Sahil
Published: November 2023

Background

Conduct disorder (CD) involves a group of behavioral and emotional problems that usually begins during childhood or adolescence. Structural brain alterations have been observed in CD, including the amygdala, insula, ventrolateral and medial prefrontal cortex, anterior cingulate cortex, and fusiform gyrus. The current study developed a multivariate generalized linear model (GLM) to differentiate adolescents with CD from typically developing (TD) adolescents in terms of grey matter volume (GMV).

Methods

The whole‐brain structural MRI data were collected from 96 adolescents with CD (mean age = $$16.188\pm 1.259$$

16.188
±
1.259

years; mean IQ = $$104.292\pm 8.107$$

104.292
±
8.107

; 63 males) and 90 TD individuals (mean age = $$15.956\pm 1.506$$

15.956
±
1.506

years; mean IQ = $$106.622\pm 9.076$$

106.622
±
9.076

; 59 males) matched on age, IQ, and sex. Region-wise GMV was extracted following whole-brain parcellation into 68 cortical and 14 subcortical regions for each participant. A multivariate GLM was developed to predict the GMV of the pre-hypothesized regions-of-interest (ROIs) based on CD diagnosis, with intracranial volume, age, sex, and IQ serving as the covariate.

Results

A diagnosis of CD was a significant predictor for GMV in the right pars orbitalis, right insula, right superior temporal gyrus, left fusiform gyrus, and left amygdala (F(1, 180) = 5.460–10.317, p < 0.05, partial eta squared = 0.029–0.054). The CD participants had smaller GMV in these regions than the TD participants (MCD–MTD = [− 614.898] mm3–[− 53.461] mm3).

Conclusions

Altered GMV within specific regions may serve as a biomarker for the development of CD in adolescents. Clinical work can potentially target these biomarkers to treat adolescents with CD.
The Ecology of Biotic Interactions in Echinoids
Authors: Petsios Elizabeth , Farrar Lyndsey , Tennakoon Shamindri , Jamal Fatemah , Portell Roger W. , Kowalewski Michał , Tyler Carrie L.
Published: November 2023

Organisms interacting with echinoids are common and produce diverse traces that are often distinctive and can be preserved in the fossil record. Thus, echinoids provide a wealth of information regarding the role of biotic interactions as drivers of ecological and morphological adaptations over macroevolutionary timescales. Studies documenting interactions with echinoids and the resulting traces have become more numerous. This Element reviews the ecologies of skeletal trace-producing interactions on echinoids in Modern ecosystems and the recognition of those biogenic traces in the fossil record. The authors explore diversification and morphological trends in Meso-Cenozoic echinoid clades and associated predator and parasite groups in the context of selective pressures brought about by the evolution of these biotic interactions. Their intent is that this review promotes additional studies documenting the intensity of biotic interactions with echinoids in both Recent and fossil assemblages and highlights their potential to advance our understanding of ecosystem functioning and evolution. This title is also available as Open Access on Cambridge Core.
Who Gets Credit? Citizen Responses to Local Public Goods
Authors: McKiernan Katherine
Published: November 2023

In decentralized systems, citizens struggle to identify which level of government provides local goods. This problem is particularly salient in weakly institutionalized party environments, where politicians at different levels of government are less likely to benefit from partisan coattail effects. This article asks how citizens attribute credit for local public goods. I argue that citizens have a strong tendency to attribute credit to local politicians. As a result, citizens will respond differently to credit-claiming behavior by local and national politicians. Local politicians experience a ceiling effect, in which credit claiming has no effect on how citizens attribute credit. However, national politicians have no such ceiling and can claim credit to increase the likelihood that citizens will attribute credit to them. As a result, both political actors can receive credit for the same local goods. The article tests and supports these theoretical predictions using a vignette survey experiment in Colombia.
Informed consent in balloon Eustachian tuboplasty: a systematic review of possible complications and preventive measures
Authors: Hussain Syed Zohaib Maroof , Hashmi Salman , Qayyum Asad
Published: November 2023

Objective

To systematically identify the complications associated with balloon Eustachian tuboplasty and their frequency of occurrence. This study will also highlight the measures that can be employed to avoid these complications and perform this procedure more safely.

Methods

Systematically reviewed relevant papers published until January 2023. Each reference was checked and evaluated for any potential manuscripts. There was no registered protocol; the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses was used.

Results

Sixty-nine publications were found, from which 14 publications met our inclusion criteria: 2 randomised clinical trials, 5 retrospective studies, 2 systematic reviews, 2 case series and 3 case reports. Studies with balloon Eustachian tuboplasty procedure only were included, regardless of ethnicity, gender and age. All studies were excluded in which more than one procedure was performed.

Conclusion

Balloon Eustachian tuboplasty is a relatively safe procedure with an overall complication risk of 1.66 per cent. Major complication rate was 0.43 per cent. Surgical emphysema was the most common, around 0.40 per cent.
Fusion computed tomography–magnetic resonance imaging scans for pre-operative staging of congenital middle-ear cholesteatoma
Authors: Maccarrone Francesco , Cantaffa Carla , Genovese Maurilio , Tassi Sauro , Negri Maurizio
Published: November 2023

Objective

To evaluate if fusion computed tomography–diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging may have a role in the pre-operative assessment of congenital middle-ear cholesteatoma.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of surgically treated congenital middle-ear cholesteatoma patients over a 2-year timespan was conducted. Pre-operative staging was performed on computed tomography and fusion computed tomography–diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging based on extension of the disease according to the ChOLE classification system and the Potsic classification system. Intra-operative staging was compared to imaging findings to evaluate accuracy of the two imaging modalities in predicting congenital middle-ear cholesteatoma extent.

Results

Computed tomography was able to correctly predict congenital middle-ear cholesteatoma extent in three out of six cases according to the ChOLE classification system, all of which were staged as Ch1a and Ch1b on pre-operative computed tomography. Cases in which computed tomography was not able correctly to determine congenital middle-ear cholesteatoma extent were staged as Ch3 on pre-operative computed tomography. Fusion scans correctly determined congenital middle-ear cholesteatoma extent in all cases according to the ChOLE classification.

Conclusions

Fusion computed tomography–diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging may be helpful in cases of congenital middle-ear cholesteatoma where pre-operative computed tomography shows mastoid and antrum opacification, in which computed tomography alone may overestimate cholesteatoma extension beyond the level of the lateral semi-circular canal.
Mapping evidence-based interventions to the care of unaccompanied minor refugees using a group formulation approach
Authors: Dobler V. B. , Nestler Judith , Konzelmann Maren , Kennerley Helen
Published: November 2023

Background:

How we adapt treatment algorithms to complex, clinically untested, difficult-to-engage patient groups without losing evidence base in everyday practice is a clinical challenge. Here we describe process and reasoning for fast, pragmatic, context-relevant and service-based adaptations of a group intervention for unaccompanied minor asylum seekers (UASC) arriving in Europe. We employed a distillation-matching model and deployment-focused process in a mixed-method, top-down (theory-driven) and bottom-up (participant-informed) approach. Prevalence of mental disorders amongst UASC is extremely high. They also represent a marginalised and hard-to-engage group with limited evidence for effective treatments.

Method:

Content and process adaptations followed four steps: (1) descriptive local group characterisation and theoretical formulation of problems; (2) initial adaptation of evidenced treatment, based on problem-to-component grid; (3) iterative adaptation using triangulated feedback; and (4) small-scale pilot evaluation.

Results:

Based on evidence and participant feedback, adaptations included minimising verbal demands, facilitating in-session inductive learning, fostering social connectedness via games, enhancing problem-solving skills, accounting for multi-traumatisation, uncertainty and deportation. Quantitative evaluation suggested improved feasibility, with increased attendance, low drop-out and symptom improvement on depression and trauma scores.

Conclusions:

By describing the principles under-pinning development of a group intervention for severely traumatised UASC, we contribute to the literature supporting dynamic adaptations of psychological interventions, without losing reference to evidence base. Complex and difficult-to-reach clinical groups are often those in most need of care, yet least researched and most affected by inequality of care. Pragmatic adaptations of proven programs are often necessary to increase feasibility.
Ancient and Modern: Digitising Manuscripts and Archives at Lincoln's Inn
Authors: Speight Dunstan , Rampling Carolyn
Published: November 2023

In this article Dunstan Speight, Librarian of Lincoln's Inn, and Carolyn Rampling, Assistant Librarian, discuss the Inn's project to digitise Library manuscripts and documents from the Archives, explaining how the project has evolved over time and offering guidance based on their experience. Although not the bread and butter of law librarianship, digitisation projects are a feature of life for law librarians working with historic collections. The website and the documents digitised so far can be viewed at https://archives.lincolnsinn.org.uk/
AI in the Legal Sector – an Overview for Information Professionals
Authors: Murphy Jordan
Published: November 2023

If there are any two letters that represent the zeitgeist of our profession, and indeed the world at large, they are A and I. AI, of course, stands for artificial intelligence, a subject that we've covered quite extensively in LIM, and are sure to continue to do so. One such article was in our Volume 22 Number 2 (Summer, 2022) issue and was penned by Jake Hearn, the assistant librarian at the Honourable Society of the Middle Temple and a member of the LIM Editorial Board. In this article Jordan Murphy, the Chair of the City Legal Information Group, reports from a presentation Jake gave to CLIG in April 2023 in which the views expressed in his original piece were updated and expanded.
Eight Reasons Why You Must Go to the BIALL Conference
Authors: Breslin Mike , Breslin Jas
Published: November 2023

With another highly successful BIALL Annual Conference behind us, LIM co-editors Jas and Mike Breslin – the latter a first-time attendee this year, the former a veteran of 18 conferences – explain why this really is an unmissable event.
Factors influencing subcanopy leaf and stolon exposure and associated absorption and translocation of herbicides in semidormant zoysiagrass
Authors: Craft Jordan M. , Godara Navdeep , Gonçalves Clebson G. , Askew Shawn D.
Published: November 2023

Turfgrass managers are concerned about zoysiagrass (Zoysia japonica Steud.) injury from nonselective herbicide treatment during winter dormancy. Research was conducted to assess factors affecting spray penetration into semidormant ‘Meyer’ zoysiagrass canopies and to evaluate absorption and translocation of [14C]glyphosate and [14C]glufosinate into green leaves and subtending stolons. Absorption of [14C]glyphosate and [14C]glufosinate was up to four times greater in stolons than in leaves. Zoysiagrass leaves treated with [14C]glufosinate had more rapid 14C absorption than those treated with [14C]glyphosate. More 14C translocated out of the treated area following [14C]glyphosate treatment compared with [14C]glufosinate and moved more readily from stolon to leaves than from leaves to stolon. When extended-range, flat-fan spray tips (XR) were positioned 61 cm above zoysiagrass, 73% and 11% of recovered colorant was extracted from dormant vegetation in the upper and lower canopy levels. Turbo TeeJet® spray tips (TTI) deposited fewer droplets into the upper canopy and more droplets into the middle and lower canopy regardless of position above the turf surface. Increasing pressure from 103 to 414 kPa increased droplet velocities from XR and TTI nozzles and decreased droplet diameters of XR nozzles. Droplet diameters were also substantially increased when using TTI nozzles compared with XR nozzles. Droplet diameter and associated mass were more determinant of turfgrass canopy penetration than droplet velocity. At 60 L ha−1 of carrier volume, 23% of colorant reached the lower canopy level, and this quantity increased by 2.3% per additional 100 L ha−1. When carrier volume was reduced from 584 to 60 L ha−1, 48% less colorant was delivered to the lower canopy level. Given that subcanopy stolons are always present and absorb more glyphosate and glufosinate than leaves, practices such as avoiding induction-type nozzles, raising spray height, and reducing spray volume can reduce herbicide delivery and potential injury to semidormant zoysiagrass.
Dynamics of the Tongue of Ionizations During the Geomagnetic Storm on 7 September 2015: The Altitudinal Dependences
Authors: Zhang Kedeng , Song Huimin , Wang Hui , Liu Jing , Wang Wenbin , Wan Xin , Wang Dedong , Jin Yaqi
Published: November 2023

Using the electron density (Ne) observations from the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program, and Constellation Observing Systems for Meteorology, Ionosphere, and Climate mission and simulations from the Thermosphere Ionosphere Electrodynamic General Circulation Model. we investigate the dynamic evolution of the polar tongue of ionization (TOI) from double to single structures at different altitudes during a geomagnetic storm. The modeled Ne depicted that double and single TOIs occurred at altitudes above 300 km, respectively. During the northward turning of interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) Bz, the afternoon TOI disappeared and the morning TOI was reduced. The plasma transport due to neutral winds and ambipolar diffusion facilitated (prevented) the depletion of plasma density of the morning TOI at 300 (500) km, with a relative contribution of 42.8% and 28.6% (−15.4% and −76.9%), respectively. Downward E × B drifts led to an enhancement/reduction of plasma density in the storm enhanced density region in the lower/upper ionosphere. During the duskward turning of IMF By, the morning TOI could be mostly attributed to the anti‐sunward plasma drifts (75.8% at 300 km, 100% at 500 km), with a relatively stronger role of the zonal component than that of meridional E × B drifts. The upward E × B drifts were important/ignorable in the upper/lower ionosphere. Both the neutral winds and ambipolar diffusion resulted in an accumulation of plasma density of the morning TOI at 300 km indirectly (24.2%), however, their roles were minor at 500 km.
On the Dynamics of Ultrarelativistic Electrons (>2 MeV) Near L* = 3.5 During 8 June 2015
Authors: Hogan Benjamin , Li Xinlin , Xiang Zheng , Zhao Hong , Mei Yang , O’Brien Declan , Baker Daniel N. , Kanekal Shrikanth
Published: November 2023

Understanding local loss processes in Earth’s radiation belts is critical to understanding their overall structure. Electromagnetic ion cyclotron waves can cause rapid loss of multi‐MeV electrons in the radiation belts. These loss effects have been observed at a range of L* values, recently as low as L* = 3.5. Here, we present a case study of an event where a local minimum develops in multi‐MeV electron phase space density (PSD) near L* = 3.5 and evaluate the possibility of electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves in contributing to the observed loss feature. Signatures of EMIC waves are shown including rapid local loss and pitch angle bite outs. Analysis of the wave power spectral density during the event shows EMIC wave occurrence at higher L* values. Using representative wave parameters, we calculate minimum resonant energies, diffusion coefficients, and simulate the evolution of electron PSD during this event. From these results, we find that O+ band EMIC waves could be contributing to the local loss feature during this event. O+ band EMIC waves are uncommon, but do occur in these L* ranges, and therefore may be a significant driver of radiation belt dynamics under certain preconditioning of the radiation belts.
Scaling Laws for Mixed Heated Convection With Pseudoplastic Rheology: Implications for the Bistability of Tectonic Mode
Authors: Ferrick Amy L. , Korenaga Jun
Published: November 2023

Plate tectonics is a tectonic style thought to be the hallmark of habitable planets, and yet the inherent complexities of plate tectonic convection have clouded the establishment of simple scaling laws with which to model convective behavior and thermal evolution. We have recently developed a scaling approach for mixed heated convection, based upon several simple physical principles. Here, we generalize our scaling approach to mixed heated convection with pseudoplastic rheology, which gives rise to the plate tectonic mode of convection. We then apply our scaling results to the so‐called bistability of tectonic mode. By illustrating common pitfalls regarding heating mode and nondimensionalization, we demonstrate that tectonic mode is unique with respect to key planetary properties, and that a convective regime diagram for terrestrial planets is within reach.
The Cost of Imperfect Knowledge: How Epistemic Uncertainties Influence Flood Hazard Assessments
Authors: Balbi Mariano , Lallemant David C. B.
Published: November 2023

Classical approaches to flood hazard are obtained by the concatenation of a recurrence model for the events (i.e., an extreme river discharge) and an inundation model that propagates the discharge into a flood extent. The classical approach, however, uses “best‐fit” models that do not include uncertainty from incomplete knowledge or limited data availability. The inclusion of these, so called epistemic uncertainties, can significantly impact flood hazard estimates and the corresponding decision‐making process. We propose a simulation approach to robustly account for uncertainty in model's parameters, while developing a useful probabilistic output of flood hazard for further risk assessments via the Bayesian predictive posterior distribution of water depths. A Peaks‐Over‐Threshold Bayesian analysis is performed for future events simulation, and a pseudo‐likelihood probabilistic approach for the calibration of the inundation model is used to compute uncertain water depths. The annual probability averaged over all possible models’ parameters is used to develop hazard maps that account for epistemic uncertainties. Results are compared to traditional hazard maps, showing that not including epistemic uncertainties can underestimate the hazard and lead to non‐conservative designs, and that this trend increases with return period. Results also show that the influence of the uncertainty in the future occurrence of discharge events is predominant over the inundation simulator uncertainties for the case study.
Transcriptomic analysis reveals mitochondrial pathways associated with distinct adolescent behavioral phenotypes and stress response
Authors: Santos-Silva Thamyris , Hazar Ülgen Doğukan , Lopes Caio Fábio Baeta , Guimarães Francisco S. , Alberici Luciane Carla , Sandi Carmen , Gomes Felipe V.
Published: November 2023

Adolescent individuals exhibit great variability in cortical dynamics and behavioral outcomes. The developing adolescent brain is highly sensitive to social experiences and environmental insults, influencing how personality traits emerge. A distinct pattern of mitochondrial gene expression in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) during adolescence underscores the essential role of mitochondria in brain maturation and the development of mental illnesses. Mitochondrial features in certain brain regions account for behavioral differences in adulthood. However, it remains unclear whether distinct adolescent behavioral phenotypes and the behavioral consequences of early adolescent stress exposure in rats are accompanied by changes in PFC mitochondria-related genes and mitochondria respiratory chain capacity. We performed a behavioral characterization during late adolescence (postnatal day, PND 47–50), including naïve animals and a group exposed to stress from PND 31–40 (10 days of footshock and 3 restraint sessions) by z-normalized data from three behavioral domains: anxiety (light–dark box tests), sociability (social interaction test) and cognition (novel-object recognition test). Employing principal component analysis, we identified three clusters: naïve with higher-behavioral z-score (HBZ), naïve with lower-behavioral z-score (LBZ), and stressed animals. Genome-wide transcriptional profiling unveiled differences in the expression of mitochondria-related genes in both naïve LBZ and stressed animals compared to naïve HBZ. Genes encoding subunits of oxidative phosphorylation complexes were significantly down-regulated in both naïve LBZ and stressed animals and positively correlated with behavioral z-score of phenotypes. Our network topology analysis of mitochondria-associated genes foundNdufa10andCox6a1genes as central identifiers for naïve LBZ and stressed animals, respectively. Through high-resolution respirometry analysis, we found that both naïve LBZ and stressed animals exhibited a reduced prefrontal phosphorylation capacity and redox dysregulation. Our findings identify an association between mitochondrial features and distinct adolescent behavioral phenotypes while also underscoring the detrimental functional consequences of adolescent stress on the PFC.
TOFIMS mass spectrometry-based immunopeptidomics refines tumor antigen identification
Authors: Hoenisch Gravel Naomi , Nelde Annika , Bauer Jens , Mühlenbruch Lena , Schroeder Sarah M. , Neidert Marian C. , Scheid Jonas , Lemke Steffen , Dubbelaar Marissa L. , Wacker Marcel , Dengler Anna , Klein Reinhild , Mauz Paul-Stefan , Löwenheim Hubert , Hauri-Hohl Mathias , Martin Roland , Hennenlotter Jörg , Stenzl Arnulf , Heitmann Jonas S. , Salih Helmut R. , Rammensee Hans-Georg , Walz Juliane S.
Published: November 2023

T cell recognition of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-presented tumor-associated peptides is central for cancer immune surveillance. Mass spectrometry (MS)-based immunopeptidomics represents the only unbiased method for the direct identification and characterization of naturally presented tumor-associated peptides, a key prerequisite for the development of T cell-based immunotherapies. This study reports on the implementation of ion mobility separation-based time-of-flight (TOFIMS) MS for next-generation immunopeptidomics, enabling high-speed and sensitive detection of HLA-presented peptides. Applying TOFIMS-based immunopeptidomics, a novel extensive benignTOFIMS dataset was generated from 94 primary benign samples of solid tissue and hematological origin, which enabled the expansion of benign reference immunopeptidome databases with > 150,000 HLA-presented peptides, the refinement of previously described tumor antigens, as well as the identification of frequently presented self antigens and not yet described tumor antigens comprising low abundant mutation-derived neoepitopes that might serve as targets for future cancer immunotherapy development.
The burden of post-acute COVID-19 symptoms in a multinational network cohort analysis
Authors: Kostka Kristin , Roel Elena , Trinh Nhung T. H. , Mercadé-Besora Núria , Delmestri Antonella , Mateu Lourdes , Paredes Roger , Duarte-Salles Talita , Prieto-Alhambra Daniel , Català Martí , Jödicke Annika M.
Published: November 2023

Persistent symptoms following the acute phase of COVID-19 present a major burden to both the affected and the wider community. We conducted a cohort study including over 856,840 first COVID-19 cases, 72,422 re-infections and more than 3.1 million first negative-test controls from primary care electronic health records from Spain and the UK (Sept 2020 to Jan 2022 (UK)/March 2022 (Spain)). We characterised post-acute COVID-19 symptoms and identified key symptoms associated with persistent disease. We estimated incidence rates of persisting symptoms in the general population and among COVID-19 patients over time. Subsequently, we investigated which WHO-listed symptoms were particularly differential by comparing their frequency in COVID-19 cases vs. matched test-negative controls. Lastly, we compared persistent symptoms after first infections vs. reinfections.Our study shows that the proportion of COVID-19 cases affected by persistent post-acute COVID-19 symptoms declined over the study period. Risk for altered smell/taste was consistently higher in patients with COVID-19 vs test-negative controls. Persistent symptoms were more common after reinfection than following a first infection. More research is needed into the definition of long COVID, and the effect of interventions to minimise the risk and impact of persistent symptoms.