bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patients aged 50–75 years take longer to achieve the patient acceptable symptom state than patients aged 20–34 years following primary hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome
Authors: Shankar Dhruv S. , Rao Naina , Colasanti Christopher A. , Lan Rae , Essilfie Anthony A. , Youm Thomas
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Though an increasing number of adults older than 50 years are undergoing hip arthroscopy for treatment of Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome (FAIS), it is unclear how their timeline for functional outcome improvement compares to that of younger patients. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of age on time to achieving the Minimum Clinically Important Difference (MCID), Substantial Clinical Benefit (SCB), and Patient Acceptable Symptom State (PASS) following primary hip arthroscopy for FAIS.

Methods

A retrospective comparative single‐surgeon cohort study of primary hip arthroscopy patients with minimum 2‐year follow‐up was conducted. Age categories were 20–34 years, 35–49 years, and 50–75 years. All subjects completed the modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) prior to surgery and at 6‐month, 1‐year, and 2‐year follow‐up. MCID and SCB cutoffs were defined as pre‐to‐postoperative increases in mHHS by ≥ 8.2 and ≥ 19.8, respectively. PASS cutoff was set at postoperative mHHS ≥ 74. Time to achievement of each milestone was compared using interval‐censored survival analysis. The effect of age was adjusted for Body Mass Index (BMI), sex, and labral repair technique using an interval‐censored proportional hazards model.

Results

Two hundred eighty‐five patients were included in the analysis with 115 (40.4%) aged 20–34 years, 92 (32.3%) aged 35–49 years, and 78 (27.4%) aged 50–75 years. There were no significant differences between groups in time to achievement for the MCID (n.s.) or SCB (n.s.). However, patients in the oldest group had significantly longer time to PASS than those in the youngest group, both in the unadjusted analysis (p = 0.02) and after adjusting for BMI, sex, and labral repair technique (HR 0.68, 95% CI 0.48–0.96, p = 0.03).

Conclusion

Achievement of the PASS, but not the MCID or SCB, is delayed among FAIS patients aged 50–75 years who undergo primary hip arthroscopy compared to those aged 20–34 years. Older FAIS patients should be counseled appropriately about their longer timeline to achieving hip function comparable to their younger counterparts.

Level of evidence

III.
Cross-linked phytase aggregates for improved phytate degradation at low pH in animal feed
Authors: Henninger Corinna , Hoferer Merlin , Ochsenreither Katrin , Eisele Thomas
Published: June 2023

Phytases are widely used food and feed enzymes to improve phosphate availability and reduce anti-nutritional factors. Despite the benefits, enzyme usage is restricted by the harsh conditions in a gastrointestinal tract (pH 2–6) and feed pelleting conditions at high temperatures (60–90 °C). The commercially available phytase Quantum® Blue has been immobilized as CLEAs using glutardialdehyde and soy protein resulting in a residual activity of 33%. The influence of the precipitating agent, precipitant concentration, cross-linker concentration and cross-linking time, sodium borohydride as well as the proteic feeders gluten, soy protein and bovine serum albumin (BSA) has been optimized. The best conditions were 90% (v/v) ethyl lactate as precipitating reagent, 100 mM glutardialdehyde and a soy protein concentration of 227 mg/L with a cross-linking time of 1 h. The intrinsically stable phytase remained its high thermal stability and temperature optimum. The phytase-CLEA achieved a 425% increase of residual activity under harsh acidic conditions between pH 2.2 and 3.5 compared to the free enzyme. The free and immobilized phytase were deployed in an in vitro assay simulating the acidic conditions in the gizzard of poultry at pH 2. The hydrolysis of phytate was monitored using a novel high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) analysis and DAD scanner to study the InsPx fingerprint. All lower inositol phosphate pools (InsP1–InsP6) and free phosphate were separated and analyzed. The phytase-CLEA efficiently released 80% of the total phosphate within 180 min, whereas the free enzyme only released 6% in the same time under the same conditions.
Cuttlefishes (Cephalopoda, Sepiidae): the bare bones—an hypothesis of relationships
Authors: Lupše Nik , Reid Amanda , Taite Morag , Kubodera Tsunemi , Allcock A. Louise
Published: June 2023

Based on a comprehensive analysis of molecular sequence data, the Sepiidae genera Acanthosepion Rochebrune, 1884; Ascarosepion Rochebrune, 1884; Aurosepina Jothinayagam, 1987; Decorisepia Iredale, 1926; Doratosepion Rochebrune, 1884; Rhombosepion Rochebrune, 1884 and Spathidosepion Rochebrune, 1884 are here re-instated and formally recognised as valid. Sepia Linnaeus, 1758 and Sepiella Gray, 1849 are retained, but Metasepia Hoyle, 1885 is placed in alternative combination with Ascarosepion. The subgenus Digitosepia Lipiński, 2020 is well supported and is herein elevated to generic status. Sepia trygonina (Rochebrune, 1884) and Sepia hieronis (Robson, 1924) are placed in new monotypic genera Erythalassa gen. nov. and Lusepia gen. nov. respectively. Hemisepius Steenstrup, 1875, also monotypic, is recognised as valid based on a unique synapomorphy: the presence of a fleshy ridge on each side of the antero-ventral mantle that bears a longitudinal row of black pores, however, H. typicus Steenstrup, 1875, was not included in our molecular analysis as tissue samples could not be obtained. Sepia tuberculata Lamarck, 1798, the type species for the nominal genus Spathidosepion, was not included for the same reason. Based on the morphological similarity between S. tuberculata and the sequenced taxa, S. papillata Quoy & Gaimard, 1832 and S. angulata Roeleveld, 1972 we tentatively assign these two taxa to Spathidosepion pending future confirmation. Where possible, each genus is diagnosed based on a combination of morphological and molecular characters.
A basidomycetous hydroxynaphthalene-prenylating enzyme exhibits promiscuity toward prenyl donors
Authors: Martin Andreas , Dierlamm Nele , Zocher Georg , Li Shu-Ming
Published: June 2023

The fungal prenyltransferase ShPT from Stereum hirsutum was believed to prenylate 4-hydroxybenzyl alcohol and thereby be involved in the vibralactone biosynthesis. In this study, we demonstrate that hydroxynaphthalenes instead of benzyl alcohol or aldehyde were accepted by ShPT for regular C-prenylation in the presence of both dimethylallyl and geranyl diphosphate. Although the natural substrate of ShPT remains unknown, our results provide one additional prenyltransferase from basidiomycetes, which are less studied, in comparison to those from other sources. Furthermore, this study expands the chemical toolbox for regioselective production of prenylated naphthalene derivatives.

Key points

•Basidiomycetous prenyltransferase

•Biochemical characterization

•A DMATS prenyltransferase prenylating hydroxynaphthalene derivatives
Framed Curves, Ribbons, and Parallel Transport on the Sphere
Authors: Hornung Peter
Published: June 2023

We consider curves$$\gamma : [0, 1]\rightarrow {\mathbb {R}}^3$$γ:[0,1]→R3endowed with an adapted orthonormal frame$$r: [0, 1]\rightarrow SO(3)$$r:[0,1]→SO(3). We wish to deform such framed curves$$(\gamma , r)$$(γ,r)while preserving two contraints: a local constraint prescribing one of its ‘curvatures’ (i.e., off-diagonal elements of$$r'r^T$$r′rT), and a global constraint prescribing the initial and terminal values of$$\gamma $$γandr. We proceed in two stages. First we deform the framerin a way that is naturally compatible with the constraints onr, by interpreting the local constraint in terms of parallel transport on the sphere. This provides a link to the differential geometry of surfaces. The deformation of the base curve$$\gamma $$γis achieved in a second step, by means of a suitable reparametrization of the frame. We illustrate this deformation procedure by providing some applications: first, we characterize the boundary conditions on$$(\gamma , r)$$(γ,r)that are accessible without violating the local constraint; then, we provide a short proof of a smooth approximation result for framed curves satisfying both the differential and the global constraints. Finally, we also apply these ideas to elastic ribbons with nonzero width.
Progressive carbonation and Ca-metasomatism of serpentinized ultramafic rocks: insights from natural occurrences and hydrothermal experiments
Authors: Amarbayar Nomuulin , Dandar Otgonbayar , Wang Jiajie , Okamoto Atsushi , Uno Masaoki , Batsaikhan Undarmaa , Takayanagi Hideko , Iryu Yasufumi , Tsuchiya Noriyoshi
Published: June 2023

Hydration, carbonation, and related metasomatism of mantle peridotite play a significant role in the global geochemical cycle. In this study, we combined an analysis of carbonated serpentinite with hydrothermal experiments on carbonation and Ca-metasomatism for samples from the Manlay ophiolite, southern Mongolia to investigate that carbonation mechanism of the serpentinite body after serpentinization. Samples show that the serpentinite was either transected by calcite and dolomite veins or was completely replaced by carbonates (calcite with minor dolomite) and quartz, in which the original mesh texture of serpentinite was preserved. Carbonation occurred after low-temperature serpentinization (lizardite/chrysotile), suggesting that carbonation occurred at temperatures lower than 300 ˚C. Calcite in the serpentinite showed δ13 CVPDB values ranging from -8.83 to -5.11 ‰ and δ18 OVSMOW from + 20.1 to + 24.4 ‰, suggesting that CO2 in the fluids could be derived from the degradation of organic material or methanotrophic processes rather than the origin of seafloor limestone. Three batch-type experiments, i.e., single step experiments (1) Olivine + NaHCO3,aq + CaCl2,aq and (2) Chrysotile + NaHCO3,aq + wollastonite (Ca source), and two steps experiment (3) Olivine carbonation and Ca-metasomatism, were conducted at 275 °C and 5.7 MPa to constrain the mechanism of calcite replacement of serpentinite. We found that calcite precipitated from the solution directly in the first two experiments, but replacement of serpentinite by calcite was not observed. In contrast, the third experiment caused the initial carbonation to form magnesite and then changed to calcite by later alteration. The natural occurrences and experiments revealed the possibility that the carbonation of olivine followed by Ca-rich fluid infiltration produced calcite in the carbonated serpentinite. Such Ca-metasomatism of Mg carbonates could easily occur in the ultramafic bodies and significantly affect the global carbon cycle.
Long-term neurodevelopment in children with resected congenital lung abnormalities
Authors: Dossche Louis W. J. , Kersten Casper M. , Zanen – van den Adel Tabitha , Wijnen René M. H. , Gischler Saskia J. , IJsselstijn Hanneke , Rietman Andre B. , Schnater J. M.
Published: June 2023

To determine whether children who underwent resection of a congenital lung abnormality (CLA) are at higher risk for neurodevelopmental impairments than peers in the general population. The study population consisted of children born between 1999–2018 who underwent resection of a symptomatic CLA. Neurocognitive development (intelligence, memory, attention, visuospatial processing, executive functioning) and motor function of this population are monitored through our structured, prospective longitudinal follow-up program at the ages of 30 months, 5, 8, and 12 years. We compared study population scores with Dutch norm values using one-sample t-tests and one-sample binominal proportion tests. Forty-seven children were analyzed. The 8-year-olds showed significant impairments in sustained attention through the Dot Cancellation Test (mean z-scores -2.4; [-4.1; -0.8], p = 0.006 and -7.1; [-12.8; -1.4], p = 0.02 for execution speed and fluctuations respectively). Visuospatial memory was impaired at 8 years, though only in 1 out of 3 assessment tools (Rey Complex Figure Test z-scores (-1.0; [-1.5; -0.5], p < 0.001). Further neurocognitive outcomes were unimpaired at all tested ages. Regarding motor function outcomes, mean z-scores of total motor functioning were unimpaired across assessed ages. However, at 8 years, significantly more children than expected had definite motor problems (18% vs 5%, 95% CI [0.052; 0.403], p = 0.022).

   Conclusion: This evaluation reveals impairment in some subtests of sustained attention, visuospatial memory and motor development. However, globally, normal neurodevelopmental outcomes were found throughout childhood. We recommend testing for neurodevelopmental impairments in children who underwent surgery for CLA only if associated morbidities are present or if caregivers express doubts about their daily functioning.

What is Known:• In general, surgically managed CLA cases seldom suffer from long-term surgery-related morbidity and show favorable lung function.

What is New:• Long-term neurocognitive and motor function outcome appear unimpaired within surgically managed CLA cases. We recommend testing for neurodevelopmental impairments in children who underwent surgery for CLA only if associated morbidities are present or if caregivers express doubts about their daily functioning.
Biomechanical and Cortical Control of Tongue Movements During Chewing and Swallowing
Authors: Ross Callum F. , Laurence-Chasen J. D. , Li Peishu , Orsbon Courtney , Hatsopoulos Nicholas G.
Published: June 2023

Tongue function is vital for chewing and swallowing and lingual dysfunction is often associated with dysphagia. Better treatment of dysphagia depends on a better understanding of hyolingual morphology, biomechanics, and neural control in humans and animal models. Recent research has revealed significant variation among animal models in morphology of the hyoid chain and suprahyoid muscles which may be associated with variation in swallowing mechanisms. The recent deployment of XROMM (X-ray Reconstruction of Moving Morphology) to quantify 3D hyolingual kinematics has revealed new details on flexion and roll of the tongue during chewing in animal models, movements similar to those used by humans. XROMM-based studies of swallowing in macaques have falsified traditional hypotheses of mechanisms of tongue base retraction during swallowing, and literature review suggests that other animal models may employ a diversity of mechanisms of tongue base retraction. There is variation among animal models in distribution of hyolingual proprioceptors but how that might be related to lingual mechanics is unknown. In macaque monkeys, tongue kinematics—shape and movement—are strongly encoded in neural activity in orofacial primary motor cortex, giving optimism for development of brain–machine interfaces for assisting recovery of lingual function after stroke. However, more research on hyolingual biomechanics and control is needed for technologies interfacing the nervous system with the hyolingual apparatus to become a reality.
The Fréchet derivative of the tensor t-function
Authors: Lund Kathryn , Schweitzer Marcel
Published: June 2023

The tensor t-function, a formalism that generalizes the well-known concept of matrix functions to third-order tensors, is introduced in Lund (Numer Linear Algebra Appl 27(3):e2288). In this work, we investigate properties of the Fréchet derivative of the tensor t-function and derive algorithms for its efficient numerical computation. Applications in condition number estimation and nuclear norm minimization are explored. Numerical experiments implemented by the toolbox hosted at https://gitlab.com/katlund/t-frechet illustrate properties of the t-function Fréchet derivative, as well as the efficiency and accuracy of the proposed algorithms.
The cardiac glycoside ZINC253504760 induces parthanatos-type cell death and G2/M arrest via downregulation of MEK1/2 phosphorylation in leukemia cells
Authors: Zhou Min , Boulos Joelle C. , Klauck Sabine M. , Efferth Thomas
Published: June 2023

Overcoming multidrug resistance (MDR) represents a major obstacle in cancer chemotherapy. Cardiac glycosides (CGs) are efficient in the treatment of heart failure and recently emerged in a new role in the treatment of cancer. ZINC253504760, a synthetic cardenolide that is structurally similar to well-known GCs, digitoxin and digoxin, has not been investigated yet. This study aims to investigate the cytotoxicity of ZINC253504760 on MDR cell lines and its molecular mode of action for cancer treatment. Four drug-resistant cell lines (P-glycoprotein-, ABCB5-, and EGFR-overexpressing cells, and TP53-knockout cells) did not show cross-resistance to ZINC253504760 except BCRP-overexpressing cells. Transcriptomic profiling indicated that cell death and survival as well as cell cycle (G2/M damage) were the top cellular functions affected by ZINC253504760 in CCRF-CEM cells, while CDK1 was linked with the downregulation of MEK and ERK. With flow cytometry, ZINC253504760 induced G2/M phase arrest. Interestingly, ZINC253504760 induced a novel state-of-the-art mode of cell death (parthanatos) through PARP and PAR overexpression as shown by western blotting, apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF) translocation by immunofluorescence, DNA damage by comet assay, and mitochondrial membrane potential collapse by flow cytometry. These results were ROS-independent. Furthermore, ZINC253504760 is an ATP-competitive MEK inhibitor evidenced by its interaction with the MEK phosphorylation site as shown by molecular docking in silico and binding to recombinant MEK by microscale thermophoresis in vitro. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time to describe a cardenolide that induces parthanatos in leukemia cells, which may help to improve efforts to overcome drug resistance in cancer.

Graphical Abstract

A cardiac glycoside compound ZINC253504760 displayed cytotoxicity against different multidrug-resistant cell lines. ZINC253504760 exhibited cytotoxicity in CCRF-CEM leukemia cells by predominantly inducing a new mode of cell death (parthanatos). ZINC253504760 downregulated MEK1/2 phosphorylation and further affected ERK activation, which induced G2/M phase arrest.
Tribological properties of 100% cellulose nanofiber (CNF) molding under dry- and boundary lubrication-conditions at CNF/steel contacts
Authors: Okubo H. , Nakae R. , Iba D. , Yamada K. , Hashiba H. , Nakano K. , Sato K. , Sasaki S.
Published: June 2023

Cellulose nanofibers (CNFs), which are plant-derived materials, have recently garnered considerable attention owing to their excellent mechanical properties, such as their low weight and high Young’s modulus. Novel methods for producing 100% CNF bulk structural materials have been developed. However, the tribological properties of CNFs have not been investigated thus far although their mechanical properties are known and are comparable to those of some conventional structural materials. In this study, the tribological properties of a novel biomass material, 100% CNF molding, were investigated based on CNF/steel contacts under dry and boundary lubrication conditions at various temperatures. The friction test results showed that the friction coefficient and wear volume of the CNF molding increased with the test temperature of the CNF/steel tribopair under dry-sliding conditions. Conversely, no significant temperature dependence of the friction and wear properties was observed upon lubrication with a pure polyalfaolefin. The surface analytical results revealed that the amorphization of the CNF molding progressed on the worn surface, especially under dry-sliding conditions at a high temperature. All the results suggested that the friction and wear performance of the 100% CNF moldings strongly depends on the sliding test conditions, and the amorphization process of the CNF molding can affect its friction and wear performance.
The Role of Negative Posttraumatic Cognitions in the Treatment of Patients with Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Gradl Silvia , Burghardt Juliane , Oppenauer Claudia , Sprung Manuel
Published: June 2023

Background

Negative post-traumatic cognitions (PTC) are a risk factor for the development and maintenance of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTC have further been linked to symptoms of depression, anxiety, and emotion regulation (ER). We investigated the role of PTC in the treatment of PTSD patients.

Method

We analyzed data from 339 inpatients (279 female) who received inpatient trauma-focused treatment for eight to twelve weeks. PTC, symptoms of PTSD, depression, anxiety, and ER were assessed at admission and discharge. PTC assessment included negative cognitions about the self, the world, and self-blame.

Results

The results show that all symptoms and ER, and all PTC except for self-blame, decreased during treatment. Only baseline level of PTC about the self was related to changes in depression severity. The other baseline levels of PTC were not related to any changes in symptom severity. Changes in PTC about the self were related to changes in all symptoms and ER. Changes in PTC about the world were only linked to symptoms of PTSD. Changes in self-blame were only associated with symptoms of re-experiencing.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that PTC about the self play a more general and PTC about the world a more specific role in the treatment of PTSD. Further research is needed to clarify the role of self-blame in the treatment.
The African Kelleni’s roadmap using nitazoxanide and broad-spectrum antimicrobials to abort returning to COVID-19 square one
Authors: Kelleni Mina T.
Published: June 2023

For over 3.5 years, SARS CoV-2 is continuing to evolve threatening to return all and any improvement the world has made into square one. In this clinically oriented systematic review and perspective, the author explains how the best current medical evidence is strongly supporting the use of the low cost, widely available and very safe nitazoxanide in early management of COVID-19, debates the relevant theoretical studies that negated or doubted this benefit, and suggests an African roadmap to preempt the worst-case scenario if or when a new SARS CoV-2 (sub) variant or even a new respiratory virus causes a new global surge of morbidity and mortality. Kelleni’s protocol, including nitazoxanide as an integral component, is continuing to perfectly save lives of patients infected with many viruses, including SARS CoV-2 and the author stresses that respiratory RNA viruses are best managed with early pharmacological treatment. Broad-spectrum antimicrobials as nitazoxanide and azithromycin together with other therapeutics as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and the antihistaminic loratadine should be considered first to personalize the clinical management of COVID-19 and selected other alarming viral infections.
3D deformation and strain fields in drying kaolinite obtained from tracking internal bubbles using X-ray CT and ANN
Authors: Xu Shuoshuo , Lai Jinxing , O’Kelly Brendan C. , Zhao Budi
Published: June 2023

Drying fine-grained sediments experience shrinkage and desiccation cracking that may dramatically alter their mechanical and hydraulic properties. This study adopts X-ray computed tomography (CT) to monitor the three-dimensional (3D) internal deformation and strain fields, and their relationships with desiccation crack formation, for drying kaolinite samples contained in plastic containers. Two kaolinite samples, one dried at room temperature and the other oven-dried at 60 °C, were CT scanned at several intervals during the drying process. From sequential CT scans for the same sample, entrained gas bubbles were extracted and used as tracking markers for deformation and strain field measurements. Since the bubble morphology continuously changed during the drying process, an artificial neural network (ANN) model was developed to link bubbles in sequential scans for the same sample. The tracking algorithm was trained with manually linked bubbles and optimised by comparing different combinations of bubble information, e.g. bubble location, size and shape. The drying samples experienced primarily vertical displacement before the air-entry value, while horizontal displacement occurred during vertical crack formation. Internal vertical and horizontal strains were generally uniform, indicating a limited impact of non-uniform sample drying and substrate constraint.
Testfall Armut. Zum Zusammenhang von Ungleichheitseinstellungen und sozialer Lage
Authors: Heide Julian
Published: June 2023

In zeitdiagnostischen Arbeiten wird häufig vermutet, dass sich kosmopolitische Einstellungskomplexe in oberen sozialen Lagen finden, wohingegen untere soziale Lagen durch kommunitaristische Werthaltungen gekennzeichnet sind. Dieser Beitrag nimmt die Armutspopulation als unterstes Segment des sozialen Stratifikationsgefüges in den Blick, um am Testfall dieser Gruppe Einstellungen zu verschiedenen sozialen Ungleichheiten zu untersuchen. Drei gesellschaftlich umstrittene Felder sozialer Ungleichheit, nämlich sexuelle Diversität, Migration und soziale Sicherung, werden in einen Analysezusammenhang integriert. Mit Daten des Sozio-oekonomischen Panels (SOEP) kann gezeigt werden, dass Menschen in Armut gegenüber Homosexuellen oder transgender Personen nicht skeptischer eingestellt sind als nichtarme Personen. Dagegen lehnen Menschen mit Armutserfahrung Migrationsbewegungen eher ab. Die Migrationsskepsis unter Personen in langanhaltender und intensiver Armut ist größer als bei Menschen mit diskontinuierlichen Armutsverläufen. Im Feld der sozialen Sicherung bevorzugen Personen mit Armutserfahrung staatliche Sicherungsmaßnahmen gegenüber privater Absicherung. Der Testfall der Armen zeigt, dass man nicht pauschal von Einstellungskomplexen in einzelnen sozialen Lagen ausgehen kann, vielmehr müssen Einstellungsfelder differenziert betrachtet werden.
SEOM-GEICAM-SOLTI clinical guidelines for early-stage breast cancer (2022)
Authors: Ayala de la Peña Francisco , Antolín Novoa Silvia , Gavilá Gregori Joaquín , González Cortijo Lucía , Henao Carrasco Fernando , Martínez Martínez María Teresa , Morales Estévez Cristina , Stradella Agostina , Vidal Losada María Jesús , Ciruelos Eva
Published: June 2023

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer in women in Spain and its annual incidence is rapidly increasing. Thanks to the screening programs in place, nearly 90% of breast cancer cases are detected in early and potentially curable stages, despite the COVID-19 pandemic possibly having impacted these numbers (not yet quantified). In recent years, locoregional and systemic therapies are increasingly being directed by new diagnostic tools that have improved the balance between toxicity and clinical benefit. New therapeutic strategies, such as immunotherapy, targeted drugs, and antibody–drug conjugates have also improved outcomes in some patient subgroups. This clinical practice guideline is based on a systematic review of relevant studies and on the consensus of experts from GEICAM, SOLTI, and SEOM.
The Stability of Generalized Ricci Solitons
Authors: Lee Kuan-Hui
Published: June 2023

In Garcia-Fernandez and Streets (Generalized Ricci flow, volume 76 of university lecture series, American Mathematical Society, Providence, 2021) and Oliynyk et al. (Nucl Phys B 739(3):441–458, 2006), it was shown that the generalized Ricci flow is the gradient flow of a functional $$\lambda $$
λ
generalizing Perelman’s $$\lambda $$
λ
functional for Ricci flow. In this work, we further computed the second variation formula and proved that a Bismut-flat, Einstein manifold is linearly stable under some curvature assumptions. In the last part of this paper, I proved that dynamical stability and linear stability are equivalent on a steady gradient generalized Ricci soliton (g, H, f). This generalizes the results in Haslhofer and Müller (Math Ann 360(1–2):547–553, 2014), Kröncke (Stability of Einstein Manifolds, 2014, Commun Anal Geom 28(2):351–394, 2020), Raffero and Vezzoni (On the dynamical behaviour of the generalized Ricci flow, 2020) and Sesum (Duke Math J 133(1):1–26, 2006).
Investigations on riboflavin production by wild-type yeast strain for supplementation of organic feed
Authors: Kuenz Anja , Tölle Marius , Bromann Sarah
Published: June 2023

Supplementation of vitamin B2 (riboflavin) in poultry feeding is essential. For economic and environmental reasons, riboflavin is now produced biotechnologically, which, in most industrial production, is based on genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Due to legislation, organic animals must be fed with GMO-free feeds, which also applies to the production processes of vitamin additives in the feed. Therefore, the main objective of experiments in this paper is the screening of GMO-free wild-type yeast strains overproducing riboflavin as a starting point to develop GMO-free riboflavin production lines that ensure the continuous supply of riboflavin for organic livestock. A screening of wild-type, non-GMO microorganisms overproducing riboflavin was conducted. The wild-type yeast Meyerozyma guilliermondii DSM 11947 produced the highest riboflavin concentration in the screening procedure. In order to provide a feasible and affordable certified organic animal vitamin B2 supplement, the possibility of minimizing the expensive media component, yeast extract, was shown. This work shows the possibility of using a wild-type strain to achieve higher levels of riboflavin by means of bioprocess engineering and without metabolic engineering. A fermentation strategy at the laboratory scale is provided, where a yield of 30 mg riboflavin per g dry matter of yeast cells was achieved.
The Role of Albumin in the Resuscitation of Hypotensive Patients
Authors: Raynor Brittany , Huang Andrew , Udrea Daniel , Montano Nicholas
Published: June 2023

Purpose of Review

Albumin is a colloid used in fluid resuscitation, with intrinsic physiologic properties that make it ideal to use for certain hypotensive patients. Despite this, its indications for use in this context are the source of much debate. This review aims to provide an overview of the history of albumin, explain its rise and fall in popularity, and identify situations where use of albumin may be beneficial over other forms of fluid resuscitation.

Recent Findings

The use of albumin dropped significantly in 1998 after a review article was published suggesting that it was harmful to use in critically ill patients. It was not until 2004 and 2014 when the first large-scale randomized control trials were performed demonstrating that albumin administration in certain hypotensive critically ill patients was associated with decreased morbidity and mortality.

Compared to other fluids, albumin appears to be safe for most patient populations. Choice of resuscitation fluid is partly provider dependent; however, there is an increasing body of evidence supporting albumin use associated with improved patient outcomes.
Conventional CT and PET/CT imaging in the evaluation and management of subsolid pulmonary nodules: an overview of the literature and author recommendations
Authors: Kaplar Zoltan , Essa Noora Bin , Balaji Nikita , Bomanji Jamshed , Groves Ashley M. , Lilburn David M. L. , Navani Neal , Fraioli Francesco
Published: June 2023

Subsolid pulmonary nodules (SSNs) are frequent findings on CT scans, and their reported prevalence ranges between 9 and 20% in the literature. The management of SSNs requires specific knowledge. In this review, we report the standard imaging approach and the potential role of positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) in the detection of pulmonary SSNs, to help clinicians by providing evidence-based recommendations. The classification of the basic histology, nomenclature, and behaviours of the different lesions is described, with the typical imaging patterns and main recommendations for their management when detected on CT imaging. A comprehensive review of the literature has been performed to determine the potential role of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) PET/CT in the evaluation of SSNs. Finally, we describe the synergy of CT and 18F-FDG PET in the evaluation and management of SSNs. We hypothesise that in cases of 18F-FDG-positive findings, it would be worth considering pre-emptive local treatment with ablation, radiotherapy, or surgical resection. New prospective studies with greater homogeneity of data acquisition, including imaging time points, would be beneficial when reappraising the role of 18F-FDG PET/CT following new technical developments.
Longitudinal Management and a Decision-Aid Tool in Treatment-Resistant Sleep Apnea
Authors: Hrubos-Strøm Harald , Bergqvist Joel , Zou Ding
Published: June 2023

Purpose of Review

We expect an increased pressure of treating residual sleepiness in parallel with the introduction of novel wakefulness-promoting drugs to the European market. Our purpose is to review the literature on longitudinal management of treatment-resistant obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and on this background to propose a management plan for this patient group focusing on both reduction of cardiovascular risk and relief of symptoms.

Recent Findings

Most OSA literature focuses on primary diagnostics and primary or secondary treatment options in unstratified clinical populations. In this review, we focus on longitudinal management of treatment-resistant OSA described in recent, key publications. Moreover, we identified future diagnostic trends that also may be of clinical importance in this patient group. Finally, based on this background, we propose a standardized approach to secondary diagnostics and treatment decisions in treatment-resistant OSA based on a novel decision-aid tool.

Limited literature was found on the longitudinal aspects of OSA treatment. Based on this background, a standardized management plan for treatment-resistant OSA and a shared decision-aid tool is proposed. The management plan focuses on both stabilization of the upper airway and relief of symptoms.
Desalination concentrate microalgae cultivation: biomass production and applications
Authors: Al Bazedi Ghada , Ismail Maha M. , Mugwanya Muziri , Sewilam Hani
Published: June 2023

The environmental consequences of desalination concentrate disposal have limited the practical adoption of desalination systems for inland brackish water. Desalination concentrate, which is generated by desalination facilities, has the ability to offer water and nutrients for microalgal growth. A useful application for concentrate from desalination systems is required to boost the feasibility of installing desalination procedures for both inland brackish and seawater plants. Several research has been conducted to investigate the use of desalination concentrate as a medium for microalgal culture. This paper reviews the impact of desalination concentrate on microalgal productivity by describing instances of microalgae cultivated in desalination concentrate. Based on the research results, it was found that Chlorella vulgaris, Scendesmus quadricauda, S. platensis, Nannochloropsis oculata and Dunaliella tertiolecta can be cultivated on desalination brine. Also, the paper reviews the different applications of these types which may contribute to adding revenue that will reduce the cost of desalinated water.
Effects of German chamomile on symptoms and healing after mandibular third molar surgeries: A triple-blind split-mouth randomised controlled trial
Authors: Abo Rokbah Mohammed Qassem , Al-Moudallal Yasser , Al-Khanati Nuraldeen Maher , Hsaian Jamileh Ali , Kokash Moemeneh Bassam
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Background and aim

Surgical extraction of the impacted lower third molar is one of the most common surgical procedures in dentistry. Postoperative pain usually reaches its intensity 12 h after the procedure and adversely affects the patient’s quality of life for many days. Chamomile anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties have been introduced in the medical literature. The present study aimed to investigate the efficacy of chamomile gel in reducing postoperative pain and symptoms after impacted lower third molar surgeries.

Materials and methods

This study was a triple-blinded placebo-controlled randomised clinical trial with a split-mouth crossover design. The study included 70 impacted lower third molars in 35 patients (13 males and 22 females) with a mean age of 22.29 (±3.00) years. Participants’ extraction sides were randomly allocated into the study groups. Each participant was enrolled twice, i.e., into the study and control groups with a washout period of 3 weeks between the two surgeries. Postoperative pain, need for analgesics, symptoms severity (PoSSe), and wound healing were evaluated.

Results

Gingival healing was significantly better in chamomile group compared to control group (P < 0.001). There were no significant differences in post-extraction alveolar osteitis between chamomile and control group (P = 0.314). VAS results showed significant differences in mean pain scores, with significant decrease in chamomile groups (P < 0.05). Moreover, analgesic consumption was significantly higher in placebo group (P < 0.05). Mean PoSSe scores were 16.8 (±9.4) in the chamomile group, versus 41.1 (±9.9) in the control.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of the present study, it was concluded that intra-socket application of chamomile gel might effectively improve healing, and reduce pain levels, postoperative symptoms severity, and analgesics consumption after surgical extraction of impacted lower third molars.

Highlights
Incidence and outcomes of surgical site infection following emergency laparotomy during the COVID-19 pandemic in a low resource setting: A retrospective cohort
Authors: Atumanyire Jethro , Muhumuza Joshua , Talemwa Nelson , Molen Selamo Fabrice , Kithinji Stephen Mbae , Kagenderezo ByaMungu Pahari , Hakizimana Theoneste
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Introduction

Surgical site infection (SSI) is the commonest form of hospital acquired infection in sub-Saharan Africa, associated with increased morbidity and mortality. This study was aimed at determining the incidence and outcomes of surgical site infection following emergency laparotomy during the COVID -19 pandemic in a low resource setting.

Methods

This was a retrospective single Centre cohort of patients that had emergency laparotomy between July 2021–June 2022 (COVID period) and July 2018–June 2019 (pre-COVID period). Analysis was done using SPSS version 22 in which SSI rates were compared between the two periods using the chi squared test. Mortality, re-operation rates and length of hospital stay were also compared.

Results

Of the 453 patient files included in analysis, 244 (53.9%) were for the COVID period, while 209 (46.1%) were for the pre COVID period. The incidence of SSI was insignificantly higher in the COVID period (17.6% versus 16.7%; P = 0.901). Mortality was also insignificantly higher in the SSI group (3.8% versus 3.5%; P = 0.745). Presence of surgical site infection increased the risk for re-operation (P < 0.001) and prolonged hospital stay (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Since the incidence and outcomes of surgical site infection appear not to have changed following the pandemic, the same measures that were previously used to prevent SSI could still be effective even during the pandemic if followed appropriately and combined with the COVID specific peri-operative care recommendations.

High lights
COVID-19 in hospitalized adult patients with sickle cell disease: A 2020 US cohort using Cerner Real-World Data™ (CRWD)
Authors: Guarino Stephanie Howe , Williams Kimberly D. , Caplan Richard J. , Fawcett Mitch , Lanzkron Sophie
Published: June 2023

We used Cerner Real-World Data™, representing hospital admission records from 2020, to examine patients with co-occurring sickle cell disease and COVID-19 by discharge disposition grouped as death/hospice versus transfers to other facilities, returned home, or left against medical advice. Among the death/hospice group, we found older age and higher rates of congestive heart failure and diabetes. There were also significant differences in tachypnea, mechanical ventilation, minimum O2 saturation, and length of stay with higher rates in the death/hospice group. Awareness of such factors and associated mortality risks for this population may aid in patient care.
Cylinder water entry on a perturbed water surface
Authors: Moalemi Aref H. , Bredmose Henrik , Ghadirian Amin , Kristiansen Trygve
Published: June 2023

The perturbations existing on a breaking wavefront can be a potential explanation for the slamming pressure variability in wave impacts. Here, we investigate the effect of these perturbations by forced vertical slamming of a two-dimensional circular cylinder with constant downward velocity on standing waves. Through experimental modelling and numerical simulation, the slamming force is measured for several standing wave amplitudes and wavelengths. The standing wave phase is tuned such that the impact occurs symmetrically at the instant of maximum crest or trough. Our observations show that slamming coefficients vary with the standing wave amplitude when the wavelength is kept constant and vice versa. The trough impact slamming coefficient can be more than two times the flat impact, and up to four times the crest impact. The experimental results are reproduced by numerical simulations and they agree reasonably well in general. Two analytical approaches based on the von Kármán (NACA, vol. 321, 1929, pp. 1–8) and Wagner (Z. Angew. Math. Mech., vol. 12, 1932, pp. 913–215) methods, which consider the effect of water surface curvature, are introduced. The slamming coefficient calculated from these methods can provide a bound in which the slamming coefficient can be found for each standing wave amplitude and wavelength. Further insight is achieved by numerical simulations of impact on the shorter wavelength to diameter ratio of$0.05<\lambda /D<0.4$. As the wavelength to diameter ratio becomes smaller, the cylinder impacts the water surface at several locations. As a result, multiple peaks occur, and the trapped air at different locations between the cylinder and the water surface yields oscillations with different frequencies on the slamming coefficient time history.
Association between dairy products consumption and the prevalences of combined prediabetes and type 2 diabetes mellitus in Brazilian adolescents: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Medina Marcela , Cureau Felipe Vogt , Schaan Beatriz D. , Leotti Vanessa Bielefeldt , Rosa Priscila Bárbara Zanini , Pereira Mark A. , Drehmer Michele
Published: June 2023

The association between dairy products consumption in adults and the likelihood of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has been described, but more information on the adolescent population is needed. This nationally representative, cross-sectional school-based study aimed to describe the consumption of dairy products and their subtypes and to evaluate their association with prediabetes and T2DM in adolescents. The Study of Cardiovascular Risks in Adolescents (ERICA) includes adolescents aged 12–17 years. Dairy products consumption was evaluated by 24-h food recall. Associations with fasting glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and insulin resistance, as measured by homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), were evaluated by multivariate linear regression. Poisson regression was also used to assess the association between dairy products consumption and the combined prevalence of prediabetes and T2DM. Models were adjusted for sociodemographic, nutritional, behavioural and anthropometrics. The final sample analysed consisted of 35 614 adolescents. Total intake of dairy products was inversely associated with fasting blood glucose levels after adjusting for all covariates (β = −0·452, 95 % CI −0·899, −0·005). The associations were stronger for overweight and obese adolescents. Findings were similar for full-fat dairy products and yogurt. Higher consumption of low-fat dairy products and cheese were associated with a 46 % (prevalence ratio, PR 1·46, 95 % CI 1·18, 1·80) and 33 % (PR 1·33, 95 % CI 1·14, 1·57) higher combined prevalence of prediabetes and T2DM, respectively. The total consumption of dairy products and full-fat dairy products was associated with a lower combined prevalence of prediabetes and T2DM, while the consumption of cheese and low-fat dairy products was associated with higher combined prevalence of prediabetes and T2DM in Brazilian adolescents.
Débats sur la laïcité et sentiment d'appartenance chez les immigrants racisés au Québec : Mieux comprendre l'impact des « événements focalisateurs »
Authors: Bilodeau Antoine , Turgeon Luc
Published: June 2023

Certaines études suggèrent que le projet de Charte des valeurs du PQ et la loi 21 ont nourri un sentiment d'exclusion chez les membres des religions minoritaires. Cependant, aucune étude ne permet à ce jour de comparer le sentiment d'appartenance des minorités religieuses avant et après la mise à l'agenda de ces projets législatifs. Ancrée dans la recherche sur les « événements focalisateurs » et reposant sur des données de trois sondages réalisés en 2012, 2014 et 2019, notre étude examine l'impact des débats sur laïcité sur le sentiment d'appartenance des immigrants racisés au Québec. Nos résultats démontrent qu'un déficit d'appartenance au Québec par rapport au Canada existait déjà en 2012, mais qu'il était circonscrit à certains groupes, notamment ceux de dénominations non chrétiennes et les non francophones. Nos analyses montrent aussi qu'avec les débats sur la laïcité, le déficit d'appartenance au Québec s'est étendu aux minorités non religieuses et aux francophones.
Development and dynamics of a novel couple-constrained parallel wrist with three measuring force flexible fingers
Authors: Lu Yang , Chang Zefeng , Lu Yi
Published: June 2023

A novel couple-constrained parallel wrist with three measuring force flexible fingers is designed for grabbing heavy objects and measuring grabbed forces. Its prototype is developed, its dynamics model is established, and its grabbing forces are measured. First, using the extended formulas of the skew-symmetric matrix, the kinematic formulas are derived for solving the Jacobian/Hessian matrices and the general velocity/acceleration of the moving links in the couple-constrained parallel wrist. Second, a dynamics model is established for solving the dynamic actuation forces, the couple-constrained forces, and the torque in the couple-constrained parallel wrist. Third, the theoretical solutions of the kinematics/dynamics of the couple-constrained parallel wrist are verified using a simulation mechanism. Finally, the grabbing forces of the three flexible fingers are measured and analyzed.
What if we have too many models of worry and GAD? – ADDENDUM
Authors: Freeston Mark H.
Published: June 2023

Background and Aims:

It is almost 40 years since Borkovec et al. (1983) provided the definition of worry that has guided theory, research and treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). This review first considers the relative paucity of research but the proliferation of models. It then considers nine models from 1994 to 2021 with the aim of understanding why so many models have been developed.

Methods and Results:

By extracting and coding the components of the models, it is possible to identify similarities and differences between them. While there are a number of unique features, the results indicate a high degree of similarity or overlap between models. The question of why we have so many models is considered in relation to the nature of GAD. Next, the treatment outcome literature is considered based on recent meta-analyses. This leads to the conclusion that while efficacy is established, the outcomes for the field as a whole leave room for improvement. While there may be scope to improve outcomes with existing treatments, it is argued that rather than continue in the same direction, an alternative is to simplify models and so simplify treatments.

Discussion:

Several approaches are considered that could lead to simplification of models resulting in simpler or single-strand treatments targeting specific processes. A requirement for these approaches is the development of brief assessments of key processes from different models. Finally, it is suggested that better outcomes at the group level may eventually be achieved by narrower treatments that target specific processes relevant to the individual.