bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retrospective analysis of transabdominal preperitoneal hernia repair in emergency cases: A cohort study
Authors: Brucchi Francesco , Pelfini Elisa , Masci Emilia , Limongi Chiara , Cassini Diletta , Faillace Giuseppe
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal hernia repair (TAPP) for inguinal hernias in emergency settings, providing insights from a long‐term follow‐up.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed all patients who underwent emergency TAPP repair in ASST Nord Milano from January 2005 to December 2023. A prospectively collected database of 54 consecutive TAPP hernia repairs was reviewed. The study evaluated the feasibility and safety of TAPP through operative time and the conversion rate. Effectiveness was gauged by recurrence and complication rates as well as acute and chronic pain using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Long‐term follow‐up included assessing recovery to normal activity.

Results

Overall, data from 54 consecutive patients were analyzed. Median age was 72 (IQR = 11), with 21 men and 33 women (38.8% vs. 61.2%). The primary diagnosis was a primary hernia (61.1%), while a recurrent type was identified in 21 patients (38.9%). Femoral hernia was identified in 36 cases (48%). The median operative time was 100 min (IQR = 53 min) with 6 cases of conversion (11.1%). One recurrence (1.85%) was noted and the complication rate was 5.55 %. At a median follow‐up of 38 months, there was a low grade of chronic pain (VAS 3) in a patient (1.85%) and one recurrence (1.85%).

Conclusion

TAPP is a safe, feasible, and effective option for emergency inguinal hernia repair, exhibiting low complication and recurrence rates on long‐term follow‐up when performed by surgeons with minimally invasive surgery experience and in selected patients.
Opportunity Recognition and Innovative Solutions to Societal Challenges: The Case of Community Cooperatives in Italy
Authors: Maiolini Riccardo , Ramus Tommaso
Published: July 2024

In this chapter, we present some preliminary, exploratory evidence concerning the peculiarities surrounding the recognition of entrepreneurial opportunities as encountered by community cooperatives, that is, entities established with the mission to create value for the community in which they operate and not for their members exclusively. Drawing from the experience of eight Italian community cooperatives, we offer initial empirical support to the argument that community embeddedness complicates the process of entrepreneurial opportunity recognition. Community cooperatives confront the challenge of accommodating the disparate needs of community members, while operating within a context of resource constraints. However, community embeddedness also favors the engagement of community members in more creative processes to identify more innovative solutions to empower communities. Our preliminary findings speak to the emergent research on community-based enterprises and to the broader stream investigating entrepreneurship. They also show how cooperatives can be a source of social innovation while anchoring themselves to their imprinting of human-centered organizations, established to ameliorate the conditions of marginalized people.
Cooperative Approaches as a Way to Build Resilient Societies
Authors: Edel Friederike , Grund Maximilian , Moebius Johanna , Schuster Armin , Stork Werner
Published: July 2024

This chapter takes a deeper look into the impact of cooperative approaches within modern societies, especially of the transformation into resilient responsible societies. Therefore, we discuss the background and the development of resilience at individual, organizational, and societal levels. Especially the societal resilience needs to be more specified and examined. We place as a central assumption that every citizen is a co-producer of resilience in the state and in society. The cooperative approach can deliver many impulses needed. We are taking a look at the similarities and differences between cooperatives and all forms of resilient organizations.
Circular Business Model Innovation: New Avenues and Game Changers
Authors: Bocken Nancy M. P.
Published: July 2024

Circular business model innovation is about innovating the business model to create superior customer value propositions, while slowing resource loops through products that last longer, closing resource loops, by recycling materials, narrowing the loop by using less material per product and in manufacturing processes, and regenerating resource loops through using renewables and creating benefits for the natural environment. Despite the potential, and emerging circular business model examples by companies, only a limited percentage of products and materials is currently recycled, let alone repaired, or refurbished. This chapter addresses new avenues and game changers for research and practice in circular business model innovation, including: the twin transition of digital and circular economies, slowing the loop and regeneration, collaborative business models, and tools, methods, and impact assessment.
The Twin Advantage: Leveraging Digital for Sustainability in Business Models
Authors: Aagaard Annabeth , Vanhaverbeke Wim
Published: July 2024

The accelerating depletion of global natural resources and the resultant environmental degradation underscore the urgent need for a paradigm shift towards sustainability. This chapter delves into the concept of the twin transition (TT)—the integration of digitalization with sustainable practices—as a strategic imperative for businesses to address these challenges effectively through twin transition business model innovation. It highlights the European Commission's initiatives, like the European Green Digital Coalition (EGDC), advocating for this integrated approach. The narrative outlines four strategic archetypes for twin transition business model innovation, emphasizing the importance of dynamic capabilities and open innovation in leveraging value through cross-sector collaborations. It examines the micro (operational)-, meso (strategic)-, and macro (economic)-implications of these models, demonstrating how digital tools can optimize resource use and promote circular economy practices. Finally, we explore the managerial implications of advancing twin transition business model innovation and identify key research areas essential for comprehending the transformative impact of digital and sustainable practices on competitive advantage, resilience, and long-term sustainability.
Research on Typical Design Scheme for Mechanized Construction of 220 kV Overhead Transmission Line Foundation
Authors: Zhang Wenxiang , Huang Xiaoyu
Published: July 2024

The level of mechanization of overhead transmission lines is an important symbol of modern power construction. Good design and planning of road construction and typical planning of construction foundation can minimize the disturbance of mechanical equipment to the foundation and reduce the impact on the environment, and improving the reliability of soil and water conservation measures. Based on the sorting of commonly used mechanical construction foundation types in mountainous areas, through equipment research, this paper discuss the typical schemes for temporary road on plain area, coastal area, river area and mountain area, and use the typical design on tower site with different equipment to optimise the arrangement of construction and quantitative evaluation on excavation. The results show that: (1) the scheme of plain area are wooden boards and old tires, the scheme of coastal areas and river area are filling and temporary steel trestle, the scheme of mountain area are expand the original road and excavating new road. (2) The excavation quantity of rock anchor foundation with slope ≤10° is the less than that of pile foundation and micro pile foundation, The excavation quantity of split equipment is less than integral equipment because of the requirement of the road width. (3) the slope is an important factor to the excavation quantity, the excavation quantity of rock anchor foundation with slope 25° is 2.33 times than that on slope 10°. The amount of earthwork on the tower site increases by 2.33 times with slope 25° of split equipment on pile and micro pile foundation.
Analysis of Reinforcement Effect of High Pressure Jet Grouting Pile During Water Inflow of Loess Tunnel Basement During Operation Period
Authors: Yang Zhanhu , Dai Jinpeng , Wang Qicai , Tian Xincheng , Liu Hao
Published: July 2024

In the built loess tunnel, a large number of diseases have been found during the operation period, especially when the tunnel basement is after water inflow. At present, a large number of high pressure jet grouting pile are used to reinforce the tunnel basement, but there are few studies on the reinforcement effect of high pressure jet grouting pile when the tunnel basement is after water inflow during the operation period. Due to the operation control of the expressway, it is difficult to carry out field research during the operation period. In this paper, by changing the physical parameters of the water inflow layer of the surrounding rock of the tunnel basement, numerical simulation is used to analyze the reinforcement effect of high pressure jet grouting pile on the tunnel basement under the loads, and field monitoring means are used to confirm the correctness of the three-dimensional model. The results show that the reinforcement of high pressure jet grouting pile can prevent the uplift caused by the softening of tunnel basement surrounding rock. The error of monitoring data and simulation results is also within a reasonable range.
Analysis of Tunnel Excavation Deformation Based on FLAC3D
Authors: Ge Wensheng
Published: July 2024

Deformation analysis of tunnel excavation is one of the core problems. FLAC3D is used to simulate tunnel excavation, including tunnel modeling, excavation and support, and analyzes the force and deformation characteristics in the construction process. On the basis of collecting tunnel data, made reasonable monitoring measurement scheme, and measurement of the real-time monitoring data for the initial analysis, analysis the excavation time and excavation length regarding the deformation of the surrounding rock, predicted the deformation trend, determine the total displacement of the surrounding rock deformation, and map the relationship to time to provide a reasonable time for the secondary lining, using FLAC3D software for numerical simulation of tunnel excavation, including tunnel modeling, excavation, support, and analyzed the force and deformation characteristics in the construction process. Different combined values of K and E are designed and applying the model built by the software as the normal calculation program of numerical simulation to obtain different displacement values of arch subsidence and hole circumference convergence.
Calculation of Active Earth Pressure on a Circular Retaining Wall Based on Energy Method
Authors: Jia Senlin , Zhou Guigui , Qin Tao , Mei Yifan , Li Jiahui , Lu Kunlin
Published: July 2024

For an axisymmetric circular retaining wall, a calculation method of active earth pressure on the circular retaining wall based on energy method is being proposed. The analysis of the soil behind the wall employs the Coulomb failure mechanism. Assuming the soil to be a completely rigid plastic body, the calculation formula of active earth pressure on the circular retaining wall is being established according to the associated flow law and virtual work principle. The results are indicating that the active earth pressure on the circular retaining wall is lower than that predicted by the Coulomb solution for plane retaining walls. This active earth pressure is increasing as the radius-to-height ratio of the wall increases, eventually aligning with the Coulomb solution for plane walls. Additionally, the inclination angle of the slip surface is being observed to increase with the circumferential stress coefficient, while the active earth pressure is decreasing correspondingly; For non-cohesive soil, when the radius-to-height ratio approaches infinity, the calculation method in this paper is being consistent with Coulomb theory. This method can calculate the active earth pressure on circular retaining wall with cohesive soil behind the wall. As the cohesion increases, the inclination angle of the slip surface rises, and the active earth pressure decreases. The result is being confirmed by model tests. It can provide a reference for the engineering design of circular retaining structures.
A novel Bacillus aerolatus CX253 attenuates inflammation induced by Streptococcus pneumoniae in childhood and pregnant rats by regulating gut microbiome
Authors: Yu Ting , Wu Biru , Zhang Dimei , Deng Guanhua , Luo Yi , Tang Ningqianzi , Shi Qiankun , Hu Fang , Zhang Guoxia
Published: July 2024

Streptococcus pneumoniae (Spn) is the predominant pathogen responsible for community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in children under five years old, and it can induce over 17% of pregnant women. However, no more effective measures exist to prevent infection induced by Spn in these two special populations. The beneficial microbes can antagonize Spn and provide new targets for preventing pneumococcal infections. This study used 16S rRNA gene sequencing and targeted metabolomics to evaluate the role of the Bacillus aerolatus CX253 (CX253) in alleviating Spn infection. Additionally, the colonization of CX253 was observed in nose, trachea, and lung by using confocal laser scanning microscopy and fluorescent labeling techniques. Compared with the model group, the expression level of interleukin-1β was dropped 1.81-fold and 2.22-fold, and interleukin-6 was decreased 2.39-fold and 1.84-fold. The express of tumor necrosis factor-α was down 2.30-fold and 3.84-fold in prevention group of childhood and pregnant rats, respectively. The 16S rRNA sequencing results showed that CX253 administration alone significantly increased the abundance of Lactobacillus, Limosilactobacillus, and Prevotella in the gut of childhood and pregnant rats. Furthermore, the CX253 increased propionate in the gut of childhood rats and increased propionate and butyrate in the gut of pregnant rats to inhibit pulmonary inflammation. In summary, CX253 attenuated Spn-induced inflammation by regulating the gut microbiota and SCFAs. The research provides valuable information for the prevention of pneumonia.

Graphical Abstract
The cellular adaptor GULP1 interacts with ATG14 to potentiate autophagy and APP processing
Authors: Chau Dennis Dik-Long , Yu Zhicheng , Chan Wai Wa Ray , Yuqi Zhai , Chang Raymond Chuen Chung , Ngo Jacky Chi Ki , Chan Ho Yin Edwin , Lau Kwok-Fai
Published: July 2024

Autophagy is a highly conserved catabolic mechanism by which unnecessary or dysfunctional cellular components are removed. The dysregulation of autophagy has been implicated in various neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Understanding the molecular mechanism(s)/molecules that influence autophagy may provide important insights into developing therapeutic strategies against AD and other neurodegenerative disorders. Engulfment adaptor phosphotyrosine-binding domain-containing protein 1 (GULP1) is an adaptor that interacts with amyloid precursor protein (APP) to promote amyloid-β peptide production via an unidentified mechanism. Emerging evidence suggests that GULP1 has a role in autophagy. Here, we show that GULP1 is involved in autophagy through an interaction with autophagy-related 14 (ATG14), which is a regulator of autophagosome formation. GULP1 potentiated the stimulatory effect of ATG14 on autophagy by modulating class III phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase complex 1 (PI3KC3-C1) activity. The effect of GULP1 is attenuated by a GULP1 mutation (GULP1m) that disrupts the GULP1–ATG14 interaction. Conversely, PI3KC3-C1 activity is enhanced in cells expressing APP but not in those expressing an APP mutant that does not bind GULP1, which suggests a role of GULP1–APP in regulating PI3KC3-C1 activity. Notably, GULP1 facilitates the targeting of ATG14 to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Moreover, the levels of both ATG14 and APP are elevated in the autophagic vacuoles (AVs) of cells expressing GULP1, but not in those expressing GULP1m. APP processing is markedly enhanced in cells co-expressing GULP1 and ATG14. Hence, GULP1 alters APP processing by promoting the entry of APP into AVs. In summary, we unveil a novel role of GULP1 in enhancing the targeting of ATG14 to the ER to stimulate autophagy and, consequently, APP processing.
Pharmacological induction of the hypoxia response pathway in Huh7 hepatoma cells limits proliferation but increases resilience under metabolic stress
Authors: Jacquemin Clémence , El Orch Walid , Diaz Olivier , Lalande Alexandre , Aublin-Gex Anne , Jacolin Florentine , Toesca Johan , Si-Tahar Mustapha , Mathieu Cyrille , Lotteau Vincent , Perrin-Cocon Laure , Vidalain Pierre-Olivier
Published: July 2024

The hypoxia response pathway enables adaptation to oxygen deprivation. It is mediated by hypoxia-inducible factors (HIF), which promote metabolic reprogramming, erythropoiesis, angiogenesis and tissue remodeling. This led to the successful development of HIF-inducing drugs for treating anemia and some of these molecules are now in clinic. However, elevated levels of HIFs are frequently associated with tumor growth, poor prognosis, and drug resistance in various cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Consequently, there are concerns regarding the recommendation of HIF-inducing drugs in certain clinical situations. Here, we analyzed the effects of two HIF-inducing drugs, Molidustat and Roxadustat, in the well-characterized HCC cell line Huh7. These drugs increased HIF-1α and HIF-2α protein levels which both participate in inducing hypoxia response genes such as BNIP3, SERPINE1, LDHA or EPO. Combined transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics showed that Molidustat increased the expression of glycolytic enzymes, while the mitochondrial network was fragmented and cellular respiration decreased. This metabolic remodeling was associated with a reduced proliferation and a lower demand for pyrimidine supply, but an increased ability of cells to convert pyruvate to lactate. This was accompanied by a higher resistance to the inhibition of mitochondrial respiration by antimycin A, a phenotype confirmed in Roxadustat-treated Huh7 cells and Molidustat-treated hepatoblastoma cells (Huh6 and HepG2). Overall, this study shows that HIF-inducing drugs increase the metabolic resilience of liver cancer cells to metabolic stressors, arguing for careful monitoring of patients treated with HIF-inducing drugs, especially when they are at risk of liver cancer.
The impact of hypoglycaemia on daily functioning among adults with diabetes: a prospective observational study using the Hypo-METRICS app
Authors: Søholm Uffe , Broadley Melanie , Zaremba Natalie , Divilly Patrick , Baumann Petra Martina , Mahmoudi Zeinab , Martine-Edith Gilberte , Mader Julia K. , Cigler Monika , Brøsen Julie Maria Bøggild , Vaag Allan , Heller Simon , Pedersen-Bjergaard Ulrik , McCrimmon Rory J. , Renard Eric , Evans Mark , de Galan Bastiaan , Abbink Evertine , Amiel Stephanie A. , Hendrieckx Christel , Speight Jane , Choudhary Pratik , Pouwer Frans ,   on behalf of the Hypo-RESOLVE consortium
Published: July 2024

Aims/hypothesis

The aim of this work was to examine the impact of hypoglycaemia on daily functioning among adults with type 1 diabetes or insulin-treated type 2 diabetes, using the novel Hypo-METRICS app.

Methods

For 70 consecutive days, 594 adults (type 1 diabetes, n=274; type 2 diabetes, n=320) completed brief morning and evening Hypo-METRICS ‘check-ins’ about their experienced hypoglycaemia and daily functioning. Participants wore a blinded glucose sensor (i.e. data unavailable to the participants) for the study duration. Days and nights with or without person-reported hypoglycaemia (PRH) and/or sensor-detected hypoglycaemia (SDH) were compared using multilevel regression models.

Results

Participants submitted a mean ± SD of 86.3±12.5% morning and 90.8±10.7% evening check-ins. For both types of diabetes, SDH alone had no significant associations with the changes in daily functioning scores. However, daytime and night-time PRH (with or without SDH) were significantly associated with worsening of energy levels, mood, cognitive functioning, negative affect and fear of hypoglycaemia later that day or while asleep. In addition, night-time PRH (with or without SDH) was significantly associated with worsening of sleep quality (type 1 and type 2 diabetes) and memory (type 2 diabetes). Further, daytime PRH (with or without SDH), was associated with worsening of fear of hyperglycaemia while asleep (type 1 diabetes), memory (type 1 and type 2 diabetes) and social functioning (type 2 diabetes).

Conclusions/interpretation

This prospective, real-world study reveals impact on several domains of daily functioning following PRH but not following SDH alone. These data suggest that the observed negative impact is mainly driven by subjective awareness of hypoglycaemia (i.e. PRH), through either symptoms or sensor alerts/readings and/or the need to take action to prevent or treat episodes.

Graphical Abstract
The full spectrum of clinical stages of psychosis at prison entry: prevalence and concurrent validity of symptom screening
Authors: Yee Natalia , Browne Christie , Chemjong Prabin , Korobanova Daria , Dean Kimberlie
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Despite the high rates of psychotic disorders amongst people in prison, current prison mental health screening approaches have not included assessment of the full psychosis spectrum to capture those at-risk of an emerging psychosis as well as those with established illness nor assessed the concurrent validity of psychosis symptom screening.

Methods

Using a clinical staging approach to establish the prevalence of Ultra High Risk (UHR), first episode of psychosis (FEP) and established psychosis (EP) groups, 291 adults entering custody in two prison reception centres in NSW completed a two-stage (screening and validation) interview process. The Comprehensive Assessment of At-Risk Mental States (CAARMS) was used to determine the clinical stages of psychosis and concurrent validity of symptom screening in identifying individuals on the psychosis spectrum was formally assessed.

Results

Amongst men and women entering prison, almost one quarter (24.1%) met UHR criteria, 5.1% met the FEP threshold and 10.6% had an established psychosis. Those on the psychosis spectrum reported greater disadvantage across sociodemographic and justice factors. The presence of perceptual disturbance and paranoid beliefs emerged as the two best screening items for identifying those with an underlying psychosis spectrum illness.

Conclusion

The prevalence of psychosis spectrum illness, including the UHR state, amongst those entering prison is high. Current prison mental health approaches should include screening for the presence of perceptual disturbances and paranoid beliefs to improve the detection of psychosis spectrum illness.
Tech hubs within cities—determinants and dynamics
Authors: Hellwig Vanessa
Published: July 2024

This paper explores the microgeographic determinants of firm birth activity and relocation patterns in the digital economy simultaneously. The study investigates the spatial dynamics of young firms within Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich using geo-coded data of firm births and relocation from 2009 to 2016 aggregated at a 1 × 1  km2 grid level. The panel fixed effect regression models examine the impact of changes within persistent city structures on the location choices using several control variables. The findings suggest that firm clustering, commercial building density, and higher rent prices positively influence firm births, while the impact of knowledge institutions in the neighborhood is mixed. Relocation patterns highlight the role of proximity to competitors, with higher prices in areas not deterring relocations. These findings contribute to understanding firm location choices within cities by considering the two avenues of growth and highlight the future need for further investigations on the microgeography of firm growth dynamics.
Thermal imaging from UAS for estimating crop water status in a Merlot vineyard in semi-arid conditions
Authors: Atencia Payares Luz K. , Gomez-del-Campo Maria , Tarquis Ana M. , García Mónica
Published: July 2024

Thermal remote sensing indicators of crop water status can help to optimize irrigation across time and space. The Crop Water Stress Index (CWSI), calculated from thermal data, has been widely used in irrigation management as it has a proven association with evapotranspiration ratios. However, different approaches can be used to calculate the CWSI. The aim of this study is to identify the most robust method for estimating the CWSI in a commercial Merlot vineyard using high-resolution thermal imaging from Unoccupied Aerial Systems (UAS). To that end, three different methods were used to estimate the CWSI: Jackson’s model (CWSIj), Wet Artificial Reference Surface (WARS) method (CWSIw), and the Bellvert approach (CWSIb). A simpler indicator calculated as the difference between canopy and air temperature (Tc–Ta) was the benchmark to beat. The water status of a vine cultivar with anisohydric behavior (Merlot) in a vineyard in central Spain was assessed for two years with different agroclimatic conditions. Canopy temperature (Tc) was obtained from UAS flights at 9:00 h and 12:00 h solar hour over eight days during the irrigation period (June–August), and from vines under five different irrigation treatments. Stem water potential (SWP), stomatal conductance (gs), and leaf temperature (TL) were recorded at the time of the flights and compared with the thermal indices (CWSIj, CWSIw, CWSIb) and the benchmark indicator (Tc–Ta). Results show that the simpler indicator of water stress, Tc–Ta, performed better at identifying varying levels of crop hydration than CWSIb or CWSIw at 12:00 h. Under conditions of extreme aridity, the latter indices were less accurate than the physically-based CWSIj at 12:00 h, which had the highest correlation with SWP (r = 0.84), followed by the benchmark index Tc–Ta (r = 0.70 at 12:00). Considering the current climatic trends towards aridification, the CWSIj emerges as a useful operational tool, with robust performance across days and times of day. These results are important for irrigation management and could contribute to improving water use efficiency in agriculture.
Biochemical analysis of catecholamine and cortisol for the evaluation of the fetal distress in third trimester stillbirths
Authors: Giorgetti Arianna , Bonasoni Maria Paola , Lacchè Elena , Comitini Giuseppina , Migliavacca Costanza , Ferretti Alice , Galeone Carla , Polese Alessandra , Stridi Giovanna , Monari Francesca , Melis Beatrice , Pelotti Susi
Published: July 2024

Background

Stress hormones like catecholamine and cortisol are thought to reflect the magnitude of physical stress in adults and were studied in relationship to the cause of death and agony time. Intrauterine distress, intrapartum events, and modes of delivery can affect the fetal endocrine stress response, as reflected by biochemical analyses. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the role of catecholamines and cortisol as markers of ante-mortem fetal distress. The role of cortisol as a marker of circadian timing of delivery was also assessed.

Methods

A 2-year prospective cohort-comparison inclusion of stillbirths and newborns took place with collection of antemortem data, labor parameters, neonatal outcome, post-mortem data and blood samples. Stillbirths were classified as acute or chronic on the basis of a multidisciplinary evaluation. Heart blood of stillbirths and cord blood of newborns were analyzed by high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) for adrenaline and noradrenaline and by immunoassay for cortisol determination.

Results

Fifteen stillbirths and 46 newborns, as a comparison group, delivered by spontaneous vaginal birth, elective, and emergency cesarean sections were included. Stillbirths’ main cause of death was cord thrombosis. Levels of adrenaline and noradrenaline (median: 14,188 pg/ml and 230.5 pg/ml, respectively) were significantly higher (p < 0.001) in stillbirths than in newborns and were also higher in acute compared to chronic distress. Cortisol levels were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in spontaneous vaginal delivery (median: 18.2 μg/dl) compared to elective cesarean sections (median: 3.8 μg/dl). No difference in cortisol concentrations was detected between newborns delivered at morning and at afternoon/evening.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that the biochemical measurement of adrenaline and noradrenaline levels might reflect a marked physical stress response during the process of death in stillbirths. On the contrary, the elevation of cortisol levels could mirror the elevation in maternal cortisol level during vaginal delivery. For the post-mortem evaluation of stillbirths, the analysis of CA levels could provide additional data on the duration of distress, useful to integrate the forensic diagnosis.
Morphological and immunohistochemical evaluation in distinguishing post-radiotherapy serous-like endometrial change (PoRSEC) and serous endometrial intraepithelial carcinoma (SEIC)
Authors: Arciuolo Damiano , Scaglione Giulia , Travaglino Antonio , D’Alessandris Nicoletta , Santoro Angela , Inzani Frediano , Urtueta Belen Padial , Sfregola Stefania , Raffone Antonio , Fulgione Caterina , Valente Michele , Benvenuto Roberta , Cianfrini Federica , Zannoni Gian Franco
Published: July 2024

Uteri from women undergoing chemoradiotherapy (CRT) may show reactive atypia which may mimic serous endometrial intraepithelial carcinoma (SEIC). We aimed to assess the prevalence and morphological/immunohistochemical features of post-radiotherapy serous-like endometrial changes (PoRSEC) in women undergone CRT for locally advanced cervical cancer, with a focus on the differential diagnosis with SEIC. Consecutive patients with locally advanced cervical cancer undergone CRT between 2011 and 2018 were reviewed. Endometrial histological specimens were assessed for the presence of PoRSEC. Twenty-two cases of SEIC were included for comparison. Immunohistochemistry for p53, p16, and Ki67 was performed. Out of 244 reviewed patients, 36 (14.7%) showed PoRSEC. The degree of nuclear atypia was similar between PoRSECs and SEIC. However, a papillary architecture with areas of confluent papillae was only observed in SEIC. SEIC cases showed a high mitotic activity as opposed to PoRSEC cases. The expression of p53 was aberrant in all SEICs but in none of the PoRSECs; however, 13/36 PoRSECs showed p53 positivity in most tumor cells, potentially mimicking a mutation pattern. A block-type p16 expression was observed in all SEICs and in 16/36 PoRSECs. Mean Ki67 expression was 26.9% in SEIC (range 5–70%) and 8.16% in PoRSEC (range 5–35%). While SEIC showed sharp morphological and immunohistochemical demarcation, PoRSEC were more heterogenous and merged imperceptibly with normal endometrium. In conclusion, PoRSEC may mimic SEIC both morphologically and immunohistochemically. However, a papillary architecture with cytological demarcation is typically observed in SEIC but not in PoRSEC.
The evolution of Cow’s Milk-related Symptom Score (CoMiSS™) in presumed healthy infants
Authors: Bajerova Katerina , Hrabcova Karolina , Vandenplas Yvan
Published: July 2024

The Cow’s Milk-related Symptom Score (CoMiSS™) is a scoring system that reflects the appearance and intensity of symptoms possibly related to consumption of cow’s milk. The original tool was recently updated by changing the cut-off, and the stool scale and by adding angioedema. There is no data available regarding the natural evolution of CoMiSS in infants with no cow’s milk allergy (no-CMA) or a comparison between original and updated CoMiSS values. We determined the original and the updated CoMiSS in infants not diagnosed with cow’s milk allergy. The evolution of CoMiSS during the first year of life was assessed repetitively during predefined check-ups at 1.5, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 months. The original and updated scores were compared with the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test. We also tested the impact of feeding type, age, gender, and order in the family on the CoMiSS. One hundred and twenty-two infants were included. CoMiSS values during the first year of life showed an inverse relation to age. The difference in CoMiSS between the original and updated versions was significant at 6,8,10, and 12 months (p < 0.001), related to the switch from the Bristol Stool Form Scale to the Brussels Infants and Toddlers Stool Scale (BITSS). The difference between both versions of CoMiSS was not significantly different in infants < 6 months (p = 0.999 at 1.5 and 4 months, and p = 0.586 at 3 months, respectively).

Conclusion: CoMiSS decreases with age during the first year of life. While there is no difference between the two CoMiSS versions in healthy infants under 6 months of age, the CoMiSS value in the updated version is lower than the original 1 in infants aged 6 to 12 months.

What is known?• The Cow’s Milk-related Symptom Score (CoMiSS) is a validated awareness tool for cow’s milk allergy (CMA).• A CoMiSS of ≥ 10 indicates a risk for cow’s milk allergy.

What is new?• The natural evolution of CoMiSS in infants not diagnosed with CMA (no-CMA) shows an inverse relation to age.• There is no difference between the original and the updated CoMiSS versions in no-CMA-infants under six months of age, but the updated CoMiSS is lower in infants 6–12 months than the original one.
Advances in the understanding of nuclear pore complexes in human diseases
Authors: Li Yuxuan , Zhu Jie , Zhai Fengguang , Kong Lili , Li Hong , Jin Xiaofeng
Published: July 2024

Background

Nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) are sophisticated and dynamic protein structures that straddle the nuclear envelope and act as gatekeepers for transporting molecules between the nucleus and the cytoplasm. NPCs comprise up to 30 different proteins known as nucleoporins (NUPs). However, a growing body of research has suggested that NPCs play important roles in gene regulation, viral infections, cancer, mitosis, genetic diseases, kidney diseases, immune system diseases, and degenerative neurological and muscular pathologies.

Purpose

In this review, we introduce the structure and function of NPCs. Then We described the physiological and pathological effects of each component of NPCs which provide a direction for future clinical applications.

Methods

The literatures from PubMed have been reviewed for this article.

Conclusion

This review summarizes current studies on the implications of NPCs in human physiology and pathology, highlighting the mechanistic underpinnings of NPC-associated diseases.
Validation of A 3D-printed simulator for training in endoscopic injection of bulking agent for vesicoureteral reflux: a pilot study
Authors: Escolino Maria , Chiodi Annalisa , Esposito Giovanni , Di Mento Claudia , Florio Luisa , Porcaro Mauro , Esposito Ciro
Published: July 2024

Background

Simulation-based training plays a significant role in surgical education, especially in minimally invasive pediatric surgery and urology. This study aimed to evaluate a novel 3D-printed model as training tool for endoscopic injection of bulking agent.

Methods

Forty-three attendees and ten teaching faculty members were invited to complete a post hoc questionnaire after completing training sessions using the Fish Tank Simulation Model (FTSM). The survey consisted of a 7-question 5-point Likert scale to assess the model’s realism (face validity) and its effectiveness as training tool (content validity).

Results

Regarding the training status, 20/53 (37.7%) participants were fellow and/or specialist in pediatric surgery and 33/53 (62.3%) were surgeons in training. Their level of confidence in endoscopic injection procedure was defined as novice (< 10 procedures per year) in 33/53 (62.3%), intermediate (10–20 procedures per year) in 10/53 (18.9%), and expert (> 20 procedures per year) in 10/53 (18.9%). Regarding both face validity and content validity assessments, no statistically significant differences were found between scores given by novice vs intermediate/expert groups. Similarly, no statistically significant differences emerged between scores given by participant vs faculty groups assessing the content validity of the FTSM. The FTSM was considered a good teaching tool for beginners by 44/53 (83%) and for pediatric surgeons/urologists by 38/53 (71.7%).

Conclusions

The 3D-printed Fish Tank Simulation Model proved to be a valuable, high-fidelity, easily accessible, cost-effective, hygienic, and domestic-use training tool for pediatric surgeons/urologists conducting the procedure. The model’s user-friendly design and realistic environment enhanced learning opportunities for trainees, regardless of their experience level or training status. Nevertheless, further development is necessary, particularly in enhancing the realism of the ureteral hiatus and reproducing more complex anatomy, to make it beneficial for the training of advanced surgeons.
Nonlinear dynamic analysis of shear- and torsion-free rods using isogeometric discretization and outlier removal
Authors: Nguyen Thi-Hoa , Roccia Bruno A. , Hiemstra René R. , Gebhardt Cristian G. , Schillinger Dominik
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we present a discrete formulation of nonlinear shear- and torsion-free rods introduced by Gebhardt and Romero (Acta Mechanica 232(10):3825–3847, 2021) that uses isogeometric discretization and robust time integration. Omitting the director as an independent variable field, we reduce the number of degrees of freedom and obtain discrete solutions in multiple copies of the Euclidean space

$$\left( \mathbb {R}^3\right) $$

R

3

, which is larger than the corresponding multiple copies of the manifold

$$\left( \mathbb {R}^3 \varvec{\times } S^2\right) $$

R

3

×

S
2

obtained with standard Hermite finite elements. For implicit time integration, we choose the same integration scheme as Gebhardt and Romero in (2021) that is a hybrid form of the midpoint and the trapezoidal rules. In addition, we apply a recently introduced approach for outlier removal by Hiemstra et al. (Comput Methods Appl Mech Eng 387:114115, 2021) that reduces high-frequency content in the response without affecting the accuracy, ensuring robustness of our nonlinear discrete formulation. We illustrate the efficiency of our nonlinear discrete formulation for static and transient rods under different loading conditions, demonstrating good accuracy in space, time and the frequency domain. Our numerical example coincides with a relevant application case, the simulation of mooring lines.
TypeFormer: transformers for mobile keystroke biometrics
Authors: Stragapede Giuseppe , Delgado-Santos Paula , Tolosana Ruben , Vera-Rodriguez Ruben , Guest Richard , Morales Aythami
Published: July 2024

The broad usage of mobile devices nowadays, the sensitiveness of the information contained in them, and the shortcomings of current mobile user authentication methods are calling for novel, secure, and unobtrusive solutions to verify the users’ identity. In this article, we propose TypeFormer, a novel transformer architecture to model free-text keystroke dynamics performed on mobile devices for the purpose of user authentication. The proposed model consists in temporal and channel modules enclosing two long short-term memory recurrent layers, Gaussian range encoding, a multi-head self-attention mechanism, and a block-recurrent transformer layer. Experimenting on one of the largest public databases to date, the Aalto mobile keystroke database, TypeFormer outperforms current state-of-the-art systems achieving equal error rate values of 3.25% using only five enrolment sessions of 50 keystrokes each. In such way, we contribute to reducing the traditional performance gap of the challenging mobile free-text scenario with respect to its desktop and fixed-text counterparts. To highlight the design rationale, an analysis of the experimental results of the different modules implemented in the development of TypeFormer is carried out. Additionally, we analyse the behaviour of the model with different experimental configurations such as the length of the keystroke sequences and the amount of enrolment sessions, showing margin for improvement.
SERS-active core-satellite nanostructures in a membrane filter-integrated microfluidic device for sensitive and continuous detection of trace molecules
Authors: Wu Li-An , Hsieh Kai-Ting , Lin Chien-Shen , Wang Yuh-Lin , Chen Yih-Fan
Published: July 2024

We developed a surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS)-active plasmonic core-satellite nanostructure and incorporated it into a membrane filter-integrated microfluidic device for continuous monitoring of molecules in solution. The core-satellite nanostructures were fabricated by immobilizing a high number density of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) on silica beads.to create many nanogaps among the AuNPs. The sizes of the nanogaps were fine-tuned by adding a silver (Ag) shell to optimize the SERS activity. In addition, citrate molecule, the capping agent of the nanoparticles, was displaced by alkali halides. The displacement not only reduced the SERS signals of citrate but also enhanced the adsorption of target molecules. The alkali halide-treated core-satellite nanostructures were accumulated onto a membrane filter integrated into a microfluidic device, serving as a uniform and sensitive SERS substrate. By increasing the volume of the sample solution flowing through the membrane filter, we increased the number of molecules adsorbed to the nanostructures, amplifying the intensities of their characteristic Raman peaks. Our microfluidic SERS device demonstrated continuous SERS detection of malachite green at a concentration as low as 500 fM. In summary, while various core-satellite nanostructures and microfluidic SERS devices have been reported, the integration of the membrane filter-containing microfluidic device with the core-satellite nanostructures facilitated sensitive and continuous molecule detection in our study.
Fetal agenesis of corpus callosum: chromosomal copy number abnormalities and postnatal follow-up
Authors: Cai Meiying , Lin Na , Fu Meimei , Que Yanting , Huang Hailong , Xu Liangpu
Published: July 2024

Objective

Agenesis of the corpus callosum (ACC) is an anomaly that can occur in fetuses during pregnancy. However, there is currently no treatment for fetal ACC. Therefore, we conducted a retrospective analysis of obstetric outcomes of fetal ACC to explore the relationship between fetal ACC phenotypes and chromosomal copy number abnormalities.

Methods and results

Amniotic fluid or umbilical cord blood were extracted from pregnant women with fetal ACC for karyotype analysis and chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA). Among the 48 fetuses with ACC, 22 (45.8%, 22/48) had isolated ACC, and 26 (54.2%, 26/48) had non-isolated ACC. Chromosomal abnormalities were detected via karyotype analysis in four cases. In addition to the four cases of pathogenic copy number variations (CNVs) detected using karyotype analysis, CMA revealed two cases of pathogenic CNVs with 17q12 microduplication and 16p12.2 microdeletion. The obstetric outcomes of 26 patients with non-isolated ACC were followed up, and 17 chose to terminate the pregnancy. In addition, seven of the nine cases with non-isolated ACC showed no obvious abnormality during postnatal follow-up, whereas only one case with normal CMA showed an abnormal phenotype at six months. Of the 22 patients with isolated ACC, six chose to terminate the pregnancy. Postnatal follow-up of 16 isolated ACC cases revealed only one with benign CNV, presenting with intellectual disability.

Conclusion

Pregnant women with fetal ACC should be offered prenatal CMA, particularly non-isolated ACC. Patients with ACC should undergo prolonged postnatal follow-up, and appropriate intervention should be provided if necessary.
Comparison of Performance of NiCr2O4 and Cr2O3 Formed on the Ni-Based Superalloy RR1000 Under Corrosive Conditions
Authors: Gray S. , Mphahlele M. , Collins D. M. , Jackson C. , Hardy M. C. , Taylor M. P.
Published: July 2024

Samples of the Ni-based superalloy, RR1000, were exposed to 98% Na2SO4/2% NaCl salts at 700 °C with a flux of 1.5 µg cm−2 h−1 in flowing air + 300 ppm SO2 for a total of 250 h. Three pre-exposure conditions were studied: a bare reference alloy; fast heating to the test temperature followed by a 100 h hold; heating at a rate of 5 °C min−1 to the test temperature following by a 100 h hold. The surface oxide formed under the latter two conditions were Cr2O3 or NiCr2O4, respectively. The results show corrosion pit formation on the surface of the base, reference sample, and no pits present on the sample with the preformed Cr2O3. Some protection was found for the sample heated at 5 °C min−1 with a delay in the progression to accelerated corrosion attack. Additional testing under moisture containing air was also conducted. This showed no obvious difference in surface oxide morphology under the two tested heating rates for the short-term exposures examined but a difference was noted to be dependent on the moisture content of the air.
The New SH3b_T Domain Increases the Structural and Functional Variability Among SH3b-Like CBDs from Staphylococcal Phage Endolysins
Authors: Vázquez Roberto , Gutiérrez Diana , Grimon Dennis , Fernández Lucía , García Pilar , Rodríguez Ana , Briers Yves
Published: July 2024

Endolysins, proteins encoded by phages to lyse their hosts and release their progeny, have evolved to adapt to the structural features of each host. The endolysins from Staphylococcus-infecting phages typically feature complex architectures with two enzymatically active domains (EADs) and one cell wall-binding domain (CBD) belonging to the bacterial SH3 (SH3b) superfamily. This study focuses on three SH3b-like CBDs from representative staphylococcal phage endolysins (LysRODI, LysC1C and LysIPLA5) that were structurally and functionally characterized. While RODI_CBD and C1C_CBD were assigned to the well-known SH3_5 family, a new family, SH3b_T (PF24246), was identified using the CBD from LysIPLA5 as a model. GFP-fused CBDs were created to assess their differential binding to a collection of staphylococcal strains. IPLA5_CBD showed enhanced binding to Staphylococcus epidermidis, while RODI_CBD and C1C_CBD exhibited distinct binding profiles, with RODI_CBD targeting Staphylococcus aureus specifically and C1C_CBD displaying broad binding. Sequence comparisons suggested that a few differences in key amino acids could be responsible for the latter binding difference. The CBDs modulated the activity spectrum of synthetic EAD-CBD combinations in accordance with the previous binding profiles, but in a manner that was also dependent on the EAD present in the fusion protein. These results serve as a context for the diversity and versatility of SH3b domains in staphylococcal endolysins, providing insights on how (i) the CBDs from this superfamily have diverged to adapt to diverse bacterial ligands in spite of sharing a common fold; and (ii) the evolution of specificity relies on the EAD-CBD combination rather than solely the CBD.