bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nuclear medicine in the assessment and prevention of cancer therapy-related cardiotoxicity: prospects and proposal of use by the European Association of Nuclear Medicine (EANM)
Authors: Totzeck Matthias , Aide Nicolas , Bauersachs Johann , Bucerius Jan , Georgoulias Panagiotis , Herrmann Ken , Hyafil Fabien , Kunikowska Jolanta , Lubberink Mark , Nappi Carmela , Rassaf Tienush , Saraste Antti , Sciagra Roberto , Slart Riemer H. J. A. , Verberne Hein , Rischpler Christoph
Published: November 2022

Cardiotoxicity may present as (pulmonary) hypertension, acute and chronic coronary syndromes, venous thromboembolism, cardiomyopathies/heart failure, arrhythmia, valvular heart disease, peripheral arterial disease, and myocarditis. Many of these disease entities can be diagnosed by established cardiovascular diagnostic pathways. Nuclear medicine, however, has proven promising in the diagnosis of cardiomyopathies/heart failure, and peri- and myocarditis as well as arterial inflammation. This article first outlines the spectrum of cardiotoxic cancer therapies and the potential side effects. This will be complemented by the definition of cardiotoxicity using non-nuclear cardiovascular imaging (echocardiography, CMR) and biomarkers. Available nuclear imaging techniques are then presented and specific suggestions are made for their application and potential role in the diagnosis of cardiotoxicity.
The Impact of Involved Resection Margin on Recurrence and Survival After Pancreaticoduodenectomy for Periampullary Carcinoma, with Emphasis on Pancreatic Head Carcinoma
Authors: Lee Kit‐fai , Lok Hon‐ting , Fung Andrew K. Y. , Kung Janet W. C. , Lo Eugene Y. J. , Chong Charing C. N. , Wong John , Ng Kelvin K. C. , Lai Paul B. S.
Published: November 2022

Background

The supposed adverse effect of involved resection margin during pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) for periampullary carcinoma or pancreatic head carcinoma (CaP) on long‐term oncological outcomes is still inconclusive.

Methods

This is a retrospective study on periampullary carcinoma undergoing PD. Patients with R0 (margin clear) resection were compared to patients with R1 (microscopically directly involved margin) resection. Patients with gross involved margin (R2 resection) were excluded. Long‐term oncological outcomes measured included incidence and site of recurrent disease, overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival (DFS). A subgroup analysis was made on patients with CaP.

Results

Between January 2003 and December 2019, 203 PD were identified for present study. The incidence of R1 resection was common (12% in periampullary carcinoma and 20% in CaP). In periampullary carcinoma, R1 resection had greater proportion of CaP, lesser proportion of carcinoma of ampulla (CaA), more perineural invasion, more lymph node (LN) metastasis. R1 group had a shorter OS and DFS, but no difference in the incidence and site of recurrent disease. In the subgroup of CaP (91 patients), R1 group did not differ from R0 group except for more LN metastasis. There was no difference in incidence and site of recurrent disease, OS and DFS. On multivariable analysis, R1 resection was not an independent factor for OS and DFS for periampullary carcinoma or for CaP only.

Conclusion

Involved resection margin was not uncommon. It was not associated with higher incidence of recurrent disease including local recurrence, and was not an independent prognosticator for OS and DFS.
Relaxor multiferroic properties of nanostructured BaTiO3–Fe2O3–Bi2O3 lead free for energy storage applications
Authors: El-Desoky M. M. , Gazouly N. A. , Hannor Ahmed E. , Yousef Hesham. A.
Published: November 2022

Relaxor multiferroic properties of nanostructured 0.30BaTiO3–0.52Bi2O3–0.18Fe2O3 mol% (BFBT) were prepared via the mechanical activation method. The mixed powders were ball milled at 10, 20, 30, 50 and 75 h to obtain nanostructured materials. Room temperature XRD patterns for these nanostructured materials at different ball-milling times were investigated. The ball milled of nanostructured BFBT at different ball-milling times is characterized and identified by FTIR. After 50 h, HRTEM revealed the nanostructure of BFBT with an average particle size of 27.86 nm. Dielectric characterization showed a broad and frequency-dependent diffusion in phase transition around 560 K that shifted to the higher temperature with increasing frequency. The dielectric diffusivity (Υ = 1.78) was calculated from the modified Curie–Weiss law. Dielectric permitivitty (ε′) data were fitted using the Vogel–Fulcher relation, confirming the relaxor nature. Furthermore, the slim P-E hysteresis loop demonstrates recoverable energy density (Wrec = 16.17 mJ/cm3) and energy storage efficiency (η = 89.3%) at 360 K. The Néel Temperature (TN = 394 K) was determined by the magnetic susceptibility measurements. The M-H date shows a weak ferromagnetic behavior of the 50 h mechanical milled sample. Therefore, the presented work provides guidelines for synthesizing nanostructured BFBT by mechanical milling for the development of high-potential lead-free energy storage applications.
Neuropsychological assessment through Coma Recovery Scale-Revised and Coma/Near Coma Scale in a sample of pediatric patients with disorder of consciousness
Authors: Frigerio Susanna , Molteni Erika , Colombo Katia , Pastore Valentina , Fedeli Claudia , Galbiati Susanna , Strazzer Sandra
Published: November 2022

Background

The Coma Recovery Scale-Revised (CRS-R) has become a standard tool in assessing Disorders of consciousness (DoC) in adults. However, its measurement validity in pediatrics has only been ascertained in healthy cases. Increasing use of CRS-R in children with DoC imposes appropriate comparison against previously validated tools. The aims of the study were to describe the emergence to a conscious state (eMCS) in pediatric acquired brain injury (ABI); to explore the agreement between the CRS-R and Coma Near Coma Scale (CNCS) and to discuss the advantage of administering the CRS-R in pediatric age.

Materials and methods

In this observational prospective study, 40 patients were recruited. Inclusion criteria were age 5 to 18 years, Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score ≤ 8 at the insult, and unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (UWS) or minimally conscious state (MCS) at admission. Patients were assessed with CRS-R, and CNCS was used as standard.

Results

The agreement between scales was moderate (r = − 0.71). The analysis of the CRS-R domain scores also confirmed that decreasing CNCS levels (from a coma to eMCS) corresponded to concurrent increas of CRS-R scores in all domains. Moreover, CRS-R better defined patients’ status in the emergency phase from MCS. Conversely, CRS-R had lower DoC scoring ability in the presence of severe motor impairment.

Conclusion

We show that CRS-R can track changes in DoC in children as young as 5 years old, and we provide evidence that the agreement with CNCS scores is good.
Dual latent tuberculosis screening with tuberculin skin tests and QuantiFERON-TB assays before TNF-α inhibitor initiation in children in Spain
Authors: Calzada-Hernández Joan , Anton Jordi , Martín de Carpi Javier , López-Montesinos Berta , Calvo Inmaculada , Donat Ester , Núñez Esmeralda , Blasco Alonso Javier , Mellado María José , Baquero-Artigao Fernando , Leis Rosaura , Vegas-Álvarez Ana María , Medrano San Ildefonso Marta , Pinedo-Gago María del Carmen , Eizaguirre Francisco Javier , Tagarro Alfredo , Camacho-Lovillo Marisol , Pérez-Gorricho Beatriz , Gavilán-Martín César , Guillén Sara , Sevilla-Pérez Belén , Peña-Quintana Luis , Mesa-Del-Castillo Pablo , Fortuny Clàudia , Tebruegge Marc , Noguera-Julian Antoni
Published: November 2022

Tumor-necrosis-factor-α inhibitors (anti-TNF-α) are associated with an increased risk of tuberculosis (TB) disease, primarily due to reactivation of latent TB infection (LTBI). We assessed the performance of parallel LTBI screening with tuberculin skin test (TST) and QuantiFERON-TB Gold In-Tube assays (QFT-GIT) before anti-TNF-α treatment in children with immune-mediated inflammatory disorders in a low TB-burden setting. We conducted a multicenter cohort study involving 17 pediatric tertiary centers in Spain. LTBI was defined as the presence of a positive TST and/or QFT-GIT result without clinical or radiological signs of TB disease. A total of 270 patients (median age:11.0 years) were included, mainly with rheumatological (55.9%) or inflammatory bowel disease (34.8%). Twelve patients (4.4%) were diagnosed with TB infection at screening (LTBI, n = 11; TB disease, n = 1). Concordance between TST and QFT-GIT results was moderate (TST+/QFT-GIT+, n = 4; TST−/QFT-GIT+, n = 3; TST+/QFT-GIT-, n = 5; kappa coefficient: 0.48, 95% CI: 0.36–0.60). Indeterminate QFT-GIT results occurred in 10 patients (3.7%) and were associated with young age and elevated C-reactive protein concentrations. Eleven of 12 patients with TB infection uneventfully completed standard LTBI or TB treatment. During a median follow-up period of 6.4 years, only 2 patients developed TB disease (incidence density: 130 (95% CI: 20–440) per 100,000 person-years), both probable de novo infections.

Conclusion: A substantial number of patients were diagnosed with LTBI during screening. The dual strategy identified more cases than either of the tests alone, and test agreement was only moderate. Our data show that in children in a low TB prevalence setting, a dual screening strategy with TST and IGRA before anti-TNF-α treatment is effective.

What is Known:• The optimal screening strategy for latent tuberculosis in children with immune-mediated inflammatory disorders remains uncertain.• Children receiving anti-TNF-α drugs are at increased risk of developing severe tuberculosis disease.

What is New:• A dual screening strategy, using TST and an IGRA assay, identified more children with latent tuberculosis than either of the tests alone.• Identification and treatment of latent tuberculosis before initiation of anti-TNF-α therapy averted incident tuberculosis cases.
Deep feature selection using local search embedded social ski-driver optimization algorithm for breast cancer detection in mammograms
Authors: Pramanik Payel , Mukhopadhyay Souradeep , Mirjalili Seyedali , Sarkar Ram
Published: November 2022

Breast cancer has become a common malignancy in women. However, early detection and identification of this disease can save many lives. As computer-aided detection helps radiologists in detecting abnormalities efficiently, researchers across the world are striving to develop reliable models to deal with. One of the common approaches to identifying breast cancer is through breast mammograms. However, the identification of malignant breasts from mass lesions is a challenging research problem. In the current work, we propose a method for the classification of breast mass using mammograms which consists of two main stages. At first, we extract deep features from the input mammograms using the well-known VGG16 model while incorporating an attention mechanism into this model. Next, we apply a meta-heuristic called Social Ski-Driver (SSD) algorithm embedded with Adaptive Beta Hill Climbing based local search to obtain an optimal features subset. The optimal features subset is fed to the K-nearest neighbors (KNN) classifier for the classification. The proposed model is demonstrated to be very useful for identifying and differentiating malignant and healthy breasts successfully. For experimentation, we evaluate our model on the digital database for screening mammography (DDSM) database and achieve 96.07% accuracy using only 25% of features extracted by the attention-aided VGG16 model. The Python code of our research work is publicly available at: https://github.com/Ppayel/BreastLocalSearchSSD.
Ricci flow does not preserve positive sectional curvature in dimension four
Authors: Bettiol Renato G. , Krishnan Anusha M.
Published: November 2022

We find examples of cohomogeneity one metrics on$$S^4$$S4and$$\mathbb {C}P^2$$CP2with positive sectional curvature that lose this property when evolved via Ricci flow. These metrics are arbitrarily small perturbations of Grove–Ziller metrics with flat planes that become instantly negatively curved under Ricci flow.
The estimation of health state utility values in rare diseases: do the approaches in submissions for NICE technology appraisals reflect the existing literature? A scoping review
Authors: Meregaglia Michela , Nicod Elena , Drummond Michael
Published: November 2022

Background

Rare diseases negatively impact patients’ quality of life, but the estimation of health state utility values (HSUVs) in research studies and cost–utility models for health technology assessment is challenging.

Objectives

This study compared the methods for estimating the HSUVs included in manufacturers’ submissions of orphan drugs to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) with those of published studies addressing the same rare diseases to understand whether manufacturers fully exploited the existing literature in developing their economic models.

Methods

All NICE Technology Appraisal (TA) and Highly Specialized Technologies (HST) guidance documents of non-cancer European Medicines Agency (EMA) orphan medicinal products were reviewed and compared with any published primary studies, retrieved via PubMed until November 2020, and estimating HSUVs for the same conditions addressed in manufacturers’ submissions.

Results

We identified 22 NICE TA/HST appraisal reports addressing 19 different rare diseases. Sixteen reports presented original HSUVs estimated using EQ-5D or Health Utility Index (n = 12), direct methods (n = 2) or mapping (n = 2), while the other six included values obtained from the literature only. In parallel, we identified 111 published studies: 86.6% used preference-based measures (mainly EQ-5D, 60.7%), 12.5% direct techniques, and 2.7% mapping. The collection of values from non-patient populations (using ‘vignettes’) was more frequent in manufacturers’ submissions than in the literature (22.7% vs. 8.0%).

Conclusions

The agreement on methodological choices between manufacturers’ submissions and published literature was only partial. More efforts should be made by manufacturers to accurately reflect the academic literature and its methodological recommendations in orphan drugs submissions.
Utility of ultrasonography for predicting indications for tolvaptan in patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease
Authors: Iijima Hiroko , Tada Toshifumi , Hashimoto Mariko , Nishimura Takashi , Kiriki Masato , Higashiura Akiko , Iwasaki Aya , Honda Michino , Nagasawa Yasuyuki , Yamakado Koichiro
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Tolvaptan is the first approved treatment for autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) that targets a mechanism directly contributing to the development and growth of renal cysts. We investigated the ability of ultrasonography to predict total kidney volume (TKV) of 750 mL or more, which is an indication for tolvaptan therapy in patients with ADPKD.

Methods

A total of 46 patients with ADPKD were evaluated. The most statistically appropriate measurement based on ultrasonography for predicting TKV determined by computed tomography (CT) was assessed.

Results

TKV determined by CT was 796.8 (508.8–1,560.3) mL. The median length, anteroposterior distance, and mediolateral distance determined using ultrasonography were 15.7 cm, 7.6 cm, and 7.6 cm in the left kidney, and 13.4 cm, 6.9 cm, and 7.2 cm in the right kidney, respectively. Multivariate regression analysis showed that total kidney length (left and right) [variance inflation factor (VIF), 9.349] and total mediolateral distance (left and right) (VIF, 3.988) were independently associated with TKV. The correlation (r) between the logarithm of TKV determined by CT and total mediolateral distance determined using ultrasonography was 0.915 (p < 0.001). The linear regression equation was log (total kidney volume) = 1.833 + 0.075 × total mediolateral distance (left and right) based on ultrasonography. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for total mediolateral distance determined using ultrasonography to predict TKV of 750 mL or more was 0.989. Using the total mediolateral distance cut-off value of 14.2 cm, the sensitivity and specificity were 96.0% and 100.0%, respectively.

Conclusion

Total mediolateral distance determined using ultrasonography can predict TKV in patients with ADPKD.
Predicting the Sustained Implementation of an Evidence-Based Parenting Program: A Structural Equation Modelling Approach
Authors: Ma Tianyi , Tellegen Cassandra L. , McWilliam Jenna , Sanders Matthew R.
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Sustained implementation is required for evidence-based parenting programs to promote children and their families’ wellbeing at the societal level. Previous literature has examined the role of a range of different factors in enhancing sustainability. However, the inter-relationship between, and the relative importance of different factors remain largely unknown. The overall aim of this study is to identify predictors of sustained program use, the relative importance of factors, and potential mediation pathways.

Methods

We surveyed 1202 practitioners who were trained in at least one variant of the Triple P-Positive Parenting Program, at least one and half years before data collection. The present data were linked with data collected during professional training. We first examined the independent effect of each factor on sustained program use, then, developed and evaluated a structural equation model of sustained program use.

Results

The structural equation model explained a considerable amount of variance in sustained program use, with seven positive predictors and one negative predictor identified. Organisational support was identified as a key facilitator, which was not only positively linked with other facilitators but also had an independent positive effect. Perceived usefulness of the program was the most important practitioner-level facilitator, which might be contributed by both research-based evidence and practice-based evidence. Practitioners’ self-regulation in program delivery impacted sustained use by influencing other factors such as perceived usefulness of the program.

Conclusion

The findings provided insight into factors influencing the sustainability of evidence-based parenting programs which could be used to inform future implementation practice.
Changes in breast cancer treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic: a Dutch population-based study
Authors: Eijkelboom Anouk H. , de Munck Linda , Menke-van der Houven van Oordt C. Willemien , Broeders Mireille J. M. , van den Bongard Desiree H. J. G. , Strobbe Luc J. A. , Mureau Marc A. M. , Lobbes Marc B. I. , Westenend Pieter J. , Koppert Linetta B. , Jager Agnes , Siemerink Ester J. M. , Wesseling Jelle , Verkooijen Helena M. , Vrancken Peeters Marie-Jeanne T. F. D. , Smidt Marjolein L. , Tjan-Heijnen Vivianne C. G. , Siesling Sabine ,   The NABON-COVID-19 Consortium,   The COVID and Cancer Care-NL Consortium, van Hoeve J. C. , Merkx M. A. W. , de Wit N. J. , Dingemans I. , Nagtegaal I. D.
Published: November 2022

Purpose

We aimed to compare (1) treatments and time intervals between treatments of breast cancer patients diagnosed during and before the COVID-19 pandemic, and (2) the number of treatments started during and before the pandemic.

Methods

Women were selected from the Netherlands Cancer Registry. For aim one, odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) were calculated to compare the treatment of women diagnosed within four periods of 2020: pre-COVID (weeks 1–8), transition (weeks 9–12), lockdown (weeks 13–17), and care restart (weeks 18–26), with data from 2018/2019 as reference. Wilcoxon rank-sums test was used to compare treatment intervals, using a two-sided p-value < 0.05. For aim two, number of treatments started per week in 2020 was compared with 2018/2019.

Results

We selected 34,097 women for aim one. Compared to 2018/2019, neo-adjuvant chemotherapy was less likely for stage I (OR 0.24, 95%CI 0.11–0.53), stage II (OR 0.63, 95%CI 0.47–0.86), and hormone receptor+/HER2− tumors (OR 0.55, 95%CI 0.41–0.75) diagnosed during transition. Time between diagnosis and first treatment decreased for patients diagnosed during lockdown with a stage I (p < 0.01), II (p < 0.01) or III tumor (p = 0.01). We selected 30,002 women for aim two. The number of neo-adjuvant endocrine therapies and surgeries starting in week 14, 2020, increased by 339% and 18%, respectively. The number of adjuvant chemotherapies decreased by 42% in week 15 and increased by 44% in week 22.

Conclusion

The pandemic and subsequently altered treatment recommendations affected multiple aspects of the breast cancer treatment strategy and the number of treatments started per week.
Influence of rewetting on N2O emissions in three different fen types
Authors: Berendt Jacqueline , Jurasinski Gerald , Wrage-Mönnig Nicole
Published: November 2022

In recent years, many peatlands in Europe have been rewetted for nature conservation and global warming mitigation. However, the effects on emissions of the greenhouse gas nitrous oxide (N2O) have been found to be highly variable and driving factors are poorly understood. Therefore, we measured N2O fluxes every two weeks over three years on pairs of sites (one drained, one rewetted) of three important peatland types in North-Eastern Germany, namely, percolation fen, alder forest and coastal fen. Additionally, every three months, sources of N2O were determined using a stable isotope mapping approach. Overall, fluxes were under the very dry conditions of the study years usually small with large temporal and spatial variations. Ammonium concentrations consistently and significantly correlated positively with N2O fluxes for all sites. Cumulative fluxes were often not significantly different from zero and apart from the rewetted alder forest, which was always a source of N2O, sites showed varying cumulative emission behavior (insignificant, source, potentially sink in one case) among years. Precipitation was positively correlated with cumulative fluxes on all drained sites and the rewetted alder forest. Isotope mapping indicated that N2O was always produced by more than one process simultaneously, with the estimated contribution of denitrification varying between 20 and 80%. N2O reduction played a potentially large role, with 5 to 50% of total emissions, showing large variations among sites and over time. Overall, neither the effect of rewetting, water level nor seasonality was clearly reflected in the fluxes or sources. Emissions were concentrated in hotspots and hot moments. A better understanding of the driving factors of N2O production and reduction in (rewetted) fens is essential and stable isotope methods including measurements of 15N and 18O as well as site preferences can help foster the necessary comprehension of the underlying mechanisms.
Leveraging siamese networks for one-shot intrusion detection model
Authors: Hindy Hanan , Tachtatzis Christos , Atkinson Robert , Brosset David , Bures Miroslav , Andonovic Ivan , Michie Craig , Bellekens Xavier
Published: November 2022

The use of supervised Machine Learning (ML) to enhance Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) has been the subject of significant research. Supervised ML is based upon learning by example, demanding significant volumes of representative instances for effective training and the need to retrain the model for every unseen cyber-attack class. However, retraining the models in-situ renders the network susceptible to attacks owing to the time-window required to acquire a sufficient volume of data. Although anomaly detection systems provide a coarse-grained defence against unseen attacks, these approaches are significantly less accurate and suffer from high false-positive rates. Here, a complementary approach referred to as “One-Shot Learning”, whereby a limited number of examples of a new attack-class is used to identify a new attack-class (out of many) is detailed. The model grants a new cyber-attack classification opportunity for classes that were not seen during training without retraining. A Siamese Network is trained to differentiate between classes based on pairs similarities, rather than features, allowing to identify new and previously unseen attacks. The performance of a pre-trained model to classify new attack-classes based only on one example is evaluated using three mainstream IDS datasets; CICIDS2017, NSL-KDD, and KDD Cup’99. The results confirm the adaptability of the model in classifying unseen attacks and the trade-off between performance and the need for distinctive class representations.
The Effectiveness of Positive Psychology Interventions for Promoting Well-being of Adults Experiencing Depression Compared to Other Active Psychological Treatments: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Lim Wei Loong , Tierney Stephanie
Published: November 2022

This systematic review assesses if positive psychology interventions (PPI) are more effective than other active psychological interventions for increasing the well-being of depressed adults. A review of randomised trials that compared PPI to other active interventions was conducted. A systematic search was undertaken using PsycInfo, PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Scopus, CINAHL, two trial registries, and a manual search. The outcomes were happiness and depression. Ten studies, totalling 1341 participants, were included in the review. The small effect sizes for depression (Hedge’s g = 0.15) and happiness (Hedge’s g = 0.20) favoured PPI but were not significant, indicating no difference between PPI and other active interventions for the outcomes. Heterogeneity was high mainly due to differences in trial implementation. Risks of bias ranged from moderate to high. The results should be interpreted with caution because of the small number of included studies, high heterogeneity, and presence of bias.

Protocol Registration Number PROSPERO CRD42019152513.
Solvothermal treatment of MgF2 coating solutions: a comparative study
Authors: Steenhusen Sönke , Löbmann Peer
Published: November 2022

MgF2 coating solutions were prepared by the fluorolytic processing of Mg(OEt)2 and MgCl2. Parts of these sols are solvothermally treated in an autoclave at 160 °C. The two respective precursors were used to prepare porous λ/4 antireflective films by dip-coating on soda-lime and borosilicate glass substrates. UV–Vis spectroscopy and X-Ray diffraction (XRD) were applied to characterize the films as a function of annealing temperature. Samples treated at 500 °C underwent testing of abrasion resistance and water solubility.
rDSA : an intelligent tool for data science assignments
Authors: Vittorini Pierpaolo , Galassi Alessandra
Published: November 2022

Tools supporting the teaching and learning of programming may help professors in correcting assignments and students in receiving immediate feedback, thus improving the solution before the final submission. This paper describes the rDSA tool, which was designed, developed, and evaluated to support students in completing assignments concerning (i) the execution of statistical analyses in the R language and (ii) commenting on the results in natural language. The paper focuses on the feedback provided by the tool to students and how it was designed/evaluated/improved over the years. The paper also presents the results of two studies that indicate the advantages of using the tool in terms of engagement and learning outcomes. To conclude, we provide a discussion on the characteristics of the tool, its use in similar courses, and the scope for future work.
Estimating the trace of matrix functions with application to complex networks
Authors: Fuentes Rafael Díaz , Donatelli Marco , Fenu Caterina , Mantica Giorgio
Published: November 2022

The approximation of trace(f(Ω)), wherefis a function of a symmetric matrix Ω, can be challenging when Ω is exceedingly large. In such a case even the partial Lanczos decomposition of Ω is computationally demanding and the stochastic method investigated by Bai et al. (J. Comput. Appl. Math.74:71–89, 1996) is preferred. Moreover, in the last years, a partial global Lanczos method has been shown to reduce CPU time with respect to partial Lanczos decomposition. In this paper we review these techniques, treating them under the unifying theory of measure theory and Gaussian integration. This allows generalizing the stochastic approach, proposing a block version that collects a set of random vectors in a rectangular matrix, in a similar fashion to the partial global Lanczos method. We show that the results of this technique converge quickly to the same approximation provided by Bai et al. (J. Comput. Appl. Math.74:71–89, 1996), while the block approach can leverage the same computational advantages as the partial global Lanczos. Numerical results for the computation of the Von Neumann entropy of complex networks prove the robustness and efficiency of the proposed block stochastic method.
Empathic Flow: Dutch Humanist Chaplains’ Experiences with Professional Empathy and Its Challenges
Authors: van Dijke Jolanda , Duyndam Joachim , van Nistelrooij Inge , Bos Pien
Published: November 2022

Empathy is considered a key component of chaplaincy care, but little is known about the daily practice of empathy and the empathy barriers that chaplains encounter. This study investigates the factors that encourage or discourage empathy and provides insight into what chaplains actually do to achieve empathy and to overcome empathy challenges. Semistructured interviews were used to collect data from twenty humanist chaplains in the Netherlands. A grounded theory approach was applied to analyze the data. The core concept of empathic flow emerged from the analysis. This refers to the stream of empathic experiences that arises within the relational, dynamic exchange between chaplain and client. Based on the analysis, three types of empathic flow were distinguished: (1) uncomplicated empathy, which flows smoothly and easily; (2) challenged empathy, which fluctuates between flow and temporal stagnation or disruption; and (3) failed empathy, in which the flow of empathy is blocked. Professional empathy emerged as a second core category from the interview data. This refers to those chaplains’ activities that aim to establish or enhance empathic flow, particularly in the face of challenges. Professional empathy relies on several underlying key components: critical self-reflection, self-care, professional standards, and the chaplain’s humanistic worldview and values. The qualitative analysis yielded 10 themes of professional empathy. Our findings suggest that empathy is a rich and complex practice to which both chaplain and client contribute. As professional caregivers, chaplains consider themselves ultimately responsible for establishing empathy and overcoming challenges.
Vulnerable Capacity. Notes on a Quiet Legal Revolution
Authors: Bernardini Maria Giulia
Published: November 2022

Thevulnerability turnhas contributed to the concept of vulnerability becoming an established part of the legal lexicon. By adopting a legal-philosophical perspective, this paper will explore what might be considered the most interesting theoretical outcome of the vulnerability paradigm: the concept of universal legal capacity, enshrined in Article 12 of theConvention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The reasoning will focus on two main areas. First, the theoretical background of this reflection will be clarified, by investigating the main arguments of the current debate on vulnerability. Such a reflection will provide the necessary background to explore the relationship between autonomy and vulnerability. The second part of this paper specifically aims to analyse the content and legal implications of Article 12 CRPD. The exegesis of Article 12 will attempt to show that said Article is theoretically founded on the paradigm of vulnerability. Following that, a ‘reality test’ will give the opportunity to discuss some of the main positions that are present in the existing literature on the topic, with particular attention to the relationship between support and substitution. The expressionvulnerable capacityhas been used in order to emphasise the complex analysis required to adequately address the issue of capacity from a theoretical perspective. It will be argued that legal capacity can be considered vulnerable because it characterises a (universally) vulnerable subject.
Demonstrations as actions
Authors: Ciecierski Tadeusz , Makowski Piotr Tomasz
Published: November 2022

This paper presents a dual intention model (DIM) of demonstrations as actions to show the agentive nature of demonstrations. According to the DIM, demonstrations are complex actions that contain as components at least three elements: an abductive intention, a deictic intention, and a basic ostensive act of indication. This paper unpacks these three components and discusses their roles from the viewpoint of the philosophy of action and the philosophy of language. It also shows how the DIM applies in selected practical examples and explains the merits of the model in the context of other views on demonstrations and demonstratives.
Metabolite profiling of tubers of an early- and a late-maturing potato line and their grafts
Authors: Villányi Vanda , Gondor Orsolya Kinga , Bánfalvi Zsófia
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Earliness of tuberisation and the quality of potato tubers are important traits in potato breeding. The qualitative traits rely on the metabolite profile of tubers, which are storage organs and net importers of assimilates. Thus, the quality of tubers largely depends on the metabolites transported from leaves to developing tubers.

Objectives

To test the influence of canopy on the quality of tubers by metabolite profiling of tubers of an early- and a late-maturing potato line and their grafts.

Methods

Potatoes were grown under greenhouse conditions, grafted and the tubers harvested at the end of the scions’ vegetation period. Metabolite profiling of freshly harvested tubers was performed using gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. Statistical analyses were applied to determine the significant differences between the different tubers.

Results

99 metabolites were identified and an additional 181 peaks detected in chromatograms, out of which 186 were polar and 94 non-polar compounds. The concentrations of 113 metabolites were significantly different in the tubers from the early-maturing CE3130 and the late-maturing CE3027 line. Hetero-grafting resulted in considerable changes in the metabolite content of tubers. Especially, the effect of CE3027 on the metabolite composition of tubers formed on CE3130 rootstocks was readily apparent. Nevertheless, many compounds were present at similar levels in the tubers of hetero-grafted plants as was found in the tubers of their scion counterparts.

Conclusion

Hetero-grafting resulted in many compounds at similar concentrations in rootstock tubers as in scion tubers suggesting that these are transported from the source leaves to tubers.
A note on the hierarchical multi-switch multi-echelon vehicle routing problem
Authors: Tadaros M. , Migdalas A. , Samuelsson B.
Published: November 2022

This paper introduces the Hierarchical Multi-Switch Multi-Echelon Vehicle Routing Problem, a new variant of the well-known Vehicle Routing Problem. It is a real-world problem originating from the policies of a Nordic distribution company. The problem includes a single depot, a non-predetermined hierarchy of intermediate facilities, and two different fleets, consisting of homogeneous original and homogeneous local vehicles, which are pulling swap-bodies. Original vehicles with attached swap-bodies depart from the central depot. They can either visit customers directly if only one swap-body is attached or visit one or two consecutive switch points in order to transfer one or two loaded swap-bodies to a corresponding number of local vehicles, which are subsequently routed to customers while the original vehicle itself proceeds to serve customers with the remaining loaded swap-body. A mixed-integer formulation of the problem is proposed. A short bibliographic review, relations, shared characteristics, and differences of the proposed variant and several known VRP variants are analyzed and discussed. The solution of an illustrative instance is presented in order to demonstrate the solution concept for the problem as well as to compare with solution concepts for previously stated VRP variants. Computational experiments on small instances that could be solved within one hour are also presented. The problem is computationally hard to solve. Thus, the development of heuristics and metaheuristics is an important future task in order to enable solution of real case instances or instances of realistic sizes.
A Comparative Study of High Temperature Tensile and Creep Testing Between Standard and Miniature Specimens: Applicability and Limits
Authors: Tang Yuanbo T. , Schwalbe Caspar , Futoma Magdalena , Roebuck Bryan , Utada Satoshi , Reed Roger C.
Published: November 2022

This study concerns the quasi-static and time-dependent mechanical behavior obtainedviathe miniaturized electro-thermal mechanical testing (ETMT) approach for single crystal (SX) and conventional cast Mar-M-247 superalloy. The experimental outcome was benchmarked against standardized testing procedures. It is found that tensile yielding behavior can be captured accurately by the ETMT approach up to 1100$$^{\circ }$$∘C, provided the appropriate type of thermocouple (T/C) is chosen. Furthermore, creep rupture behavior is underestimated by the miniaturized set-up. High repeatability of the rupture time was obtained for the SX case, whereas a significant scatter was observed for the conventional cast case. The discrepancies are assessed in detail; discussion centers around analytical and practical considerations, such as temperature uncertainty due to parasitic voltage and the choice of T/C, microstructural change as a result of the Joule heating, representative gauge volume, and strain rate non-linearity. Consequently, the applicability and limits of the miniaturized approach are examined critically, and improvements were suggested where appropriate.
Effects of Peripheral Neural Blocks in Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: a Pilot Study on Cognitive Functions in Severe Obese Patients
Authors: Zhao Xinyang , Xue Qi , Dong Ling , Chu Zhaoxia , Wang Yong , Chen Chanjuan , Hu Xianwen , Zhang Ye , Huang Chunxia
Published: November 2022

Background

In addition to the analgesic effect, peripheral neural blocks also prevent cognitive impairment and peripheral inflammation induced by surgery. However, it is unknown if there is collateral impact on cognitive improvement after bariatric surgery.

Methods

In this pilot study, 75 patients with severe obesity for selective laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) were recruited and randomized into three groups (1:1:1) as general anesthesia (GA) group, transverse abdominis plane block (TAPB) group, and quadratus lumborum block (QLB) group. Bilateral TAPB or QLB was performed (0.33% ropivacaine with dexmedetomidine 1 μg/kg) before the standardized general anesthesia. Cognitive test battery was completed before LSG and in 1-month and 3-month follow-up. The levels of peripheral inflammatory cytokines were determined at equivalent time points.

Results

Patients with LSG exhibited massive cognitive improvement in postoperative 3 month without or with TAPB or QLB (Ptime < 0.001). Compared to GA, QLB significantly strengthened performance in MoCA (β = 0.56, 95%CI: 0.08, 1.05). IL-6, IL-8, and high-sensitivity CRP significantly verified among three groups. Changes in IL-6 within postoperative 3 months were negatively correlated with MMSE and MoCA, and positively correlated with AVLT-DR for QLB group. Similar correlation was found in the GA group for changes in IL-6 and AVLT-IR.

Conclusion

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy ideally improved memory and attention as early as postoperative 1 month. QLB promoted cognitive improvement in MoCA, which was negatively correlated with changes in IL-6. More precise trials are needed to determine the overall effect of peripheral neural block on cognition following bariatric surgery.

Graphical Abstract
Normalization of Cardiac Function After Bariatric Surgery Is Related to Autonomic Function and Vitamin D
Authors: Snelder Sanne M. , Aga Yaar , de Groot - de Laat Lotte E. , Biter L. Ulas , Cabezas Manuel Castro , Pouw Nadine , Birnie Erwin , Boxma - de Klerk Bianca , Klaassen René A. , Zijlstra Felix , van Dalen Bas M.
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Subclinical cardiac dysfunction is common in patients with obesity. Bariatric surgery is associated with normalization of subclinical cardiac function in 50% of the patients with obesity. The aim of this study was to identify predictors for a lack of improvement of subclinical cardiac dysfunction 1-year post-bariatric surgery.

Methods

Patients who were referred for bariatric surgery were enrolled in a longitudinal study. Inclusion criteria were age 35–65 years and BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2. Patients with a suspicion of or known cardiovascular disease were excluded. Conventional and advanced echocardiography, Holter monitoring, and blood tests were performed pre- and 1-year post-bariatric surgery. Subclinical cardiac dysfunction was defined as either a reduced left ventricular ejection fraction, decreased global longitudinal strain (GLS), diastolic dysfunction, arrhythmia, or an increased BNP or hs Troponin I.

Results

A total of 99 patients were included of whom 59 patients had cardiac dysfunction at baseline. Seventy-two patients completed the 1-year follow-up after bariatric surgery. There was a significant reduction in weight and cardiovascular risk factors. Parameters of cardiac function, such as GLS, improved. However, in 20 patients cardiac dysfunction persisted. Multivariate analysis identified a decreased heart rate variability (which is a measure of autonomic function), and a decreased vitamin D pre-surgery as predictors for subclinical cardiac dysfunction after bariatric surgery.

Conclusion

Although there was an overall improvement of cardiac function 1-year post-bariatric surgery, autonomic dysfunction and a decreased vitamin D pre-bariatric surgery were predictors for a lack of improvement of subclinical cardiac dysfunction.

Graphical abstract
Catalytic reduction of water pollutants: knowledge gaps, lessons learned, and new opportunities
Authors: Liu Jinyong , Gao Jinyu
Published: November 2022

In this paper, we discuss the previous advances, current challenges, and future opportunities for the research of catalytic reduction of water pollutants. We present five case studies on the development of palladium-based catalysts for nitrate, chlorate, and perchlorate reduction with hydrogen gas under ambient conditions. We emphasize the realization of new functionalities through the screening and design of catalytic metal sites, including (i) platinum group metal (PGM) nanoparticles, (ii) the secondary metals for improving the reaction rate and product selectivity of nitrate reduction, (iii) oxygen-atom-transfer metal oxides for chlorate and perchlorate reduction, and (iv) ligand-enhanced coordination complexes for substantial activity enhancement. We also highlight the facile catalyst preparation approach that brought significant convenience to catalyst optimization. Based on our own studies, we then discuss directions of the catalyst research effort that are not immediately necessary or desirable, including (1) systematic study on the downstream aspects of under-developed catalysts, (2) random integration with hot concepts without a clear rationale, and (3) excessive and decorative experiments. We further address some general concerns regarding using H2 and PGMs in the catalytic system. Finally, we recommend future catalyst development in both “fundamental” and “applied” aspects. The purpose of this perspective is to remove major misconceptions about reductive catalysis research and bring back significant innovations for both scientific advancements and engineering applications to benefit environmental protection.
Artificial Nerve Containing Stem Cells, Vascularity and Scaffold; Review of Our Studies
Authors: Kakinoki Ryosuke , Akagi Masao
Published: November 2022

To promote nerve regeneration within a conduit (tubulation), we have performed studies using a tube model based on four important concepts for tissue engineering: vascularity, growth factors, cells, and scaffolds. A nerve conduit containing a blood vascular pedicle (vessel-containing tube) accelerated axon regeneration and increased the axon regeneration distance; however, it did not increase the number or diameter of the axons that regenerated within the tube. A vessel-containing tube with bone-marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell (BMSC) transplantation led to the increase in the number and diameter of regenerated axons. Intratubularly transplanted decellularized allogenic nerve basal lamellae (DABLs) worked as a frame to maintain the fibrin matrix structure containing neurochemical factors and to anchor the transplanted stem cells within the tube. For the clinical application of nerve conduits, they should exhibit capillary permeability, biodegradability, and flexibility. Nerbridge® (Toyobo Co. Ltd., Osaka, Japan) is a commercially available artificial nerve conduit. The outer cylinder is a polyglycolic acid (PGA) fiber mesh and possesses capillary permeability. We used the outer cylinder of Nerbridge as a nerve conduit. A 20-mm sciatic nerve deficit was bridged by the PGA mesh tube containing DABLs and BMSCs, and the resulting nerve regeneration was compared with that obtained through a 20-mm autologous nerve graft. A neve-regeneration rate of about 70%–80% was obtained in 20-mm-long autologous nerve autografts using the new conduits.

Graphical Abstract
Best of ASCO 2022—central nervous system tumors
Authors: Leibetseder Annette , Berghoff Anna S.
Published: November 2022

In this article, updates on novel therapy approaches in central nervous system tumors presented at the ASCO 2022 meeting are summarized. Promising outcome results on targeted therapies in rare entities such as neurotrophic tyrosine receptor kinase (NTRK) fusion-positive tumors [1] and in v‑RAF murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (BRAF)V600 mutant pediatric glioma are reported [2, 3]. Furthermore, we shortly review data on additional administration of polyADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitor veliparib (Alliance A071102 trial) [4] and on a combinatorial immunotherapy regime (consisting of intramuscular administration of two synthetic DNA plasmids in combination with cemiplimab) in newly diagnosed glioblastoma patients [5].