bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between sarcopenia‐related markers and cholelithiasis: A prospective and Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Ma Pengcheng , Li Ruining , Zeng Lin , Hong Chang , Li Yan , Liang Shengxing , Zhu Hongbo , Cui Hao , Wang Jiaren , He Jingzhe , Li Zeyang , Xu Jun , Liu Li , Xiao Lushan
Published: March 2024

Cholelithiasis is a common digestive disease that drives a myriad of adverse complications. The correlation between sarcopenia and various digestive disorders has been extensively researched, whereas its association with cholelithiasis remains unreported. We aimed to investigate the association through prospective and Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses and establish a quantitative score reflecting the impact of sarcopenia‐related markers on cholelithiasis. The prospective study involved 448 627 participants from the UK Biobank. Cox proportional hazard models were employed to investigate the correlation between sarcopenia‐related markers and cholelithiasis. To quantitatively assess cholelithiasis risk, the SARCHO score was derived from a multivariable Cox model. Bidirectional two‐sample MR analysis was conducted to validate the causal association. A total of 16 738 individuals developed cholelithiasis during a median follow‐up of 12 years. Hazard ratios (HRs) of cholelithiasis decreased stepwise over skeletal muscle index tertiles (highest tertile: reference; middle tertile: 1.23, p < .001; lowest tertile: 1.33, p < .001). The tertiles of grip strength showed a similar pattern. Individuals with slow walking pace had a higher risk of cholelithiasis compared to those with normal walking pace (HR 1.23; p < .001). Our SARCHO score better quantifies the risk of cholelithiasis. MR analysis showed a causal relationship between muscle mass and cholelithiasis (OR 0.81; p < .001). No causal effect of cholelithiasis on lean mass was observed. Prospective and MR analyses have consistently demonstrated an increased risk of cholelithiasis in individuals with decreased muscle mass. Additionally, SARCHO score further quantified the cholelithiasis occurrence risk. These findings provide compelling evidence for muscle strengthening in preventing cholelithiasis.
Temporal progression of pancreatic cancer computed tomography findings until diagnosis: A large‐scale multicenter study
Authors: Gonda Masanori , Masuda Atsuhiro , Kobayashi Takashi , Iemoto Takao , Kakuyama Saori , Ezaki Takeshi , Ikegawa Takuya , Hirata Yuichi , Tsumura Hidetaka , Ogisu Kyohei , Nakano Ryota , Fujigaki Seiji , Nakagawa Takashi , Takagi Megumi , Yamanaka Kodai , Sato Yu , Fujita Koichi , Furumatsu Keisuke , Kato Takao , Sakai Arata , Shiomi Hideyuki , Sanuki Tsuyoshi , Arisaka Yoshifumi , Okabe Yoshihiro , Toyama Hirochika , Sofue Keitaro , Kodama Yuzo
Published: March 2024

Background

Focal parenchymal atrophy and main pancreatic duct (MPD) dilatation have been identified as early signs of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. However, limited evidence exists regarding their temporal progression due to previous study limitations with restricted case numbers.

Objective

To ascertain a more precise frequency assessment of suspicious pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma findings as well as delineate the temporal progression of them.

Methods

A multicenter retrospective study was conducted on patients diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma between 2015 and 2021. We included patients who had undergone at least one computed tomography (CT) scan ≥6 months before diagnosing pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. The temporal progression of suspicious pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma findings on CT was investigated.

Results

Out of 1832 patients diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, 320 had a previous CT before their diagnosis. Suspicious pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma findings were detected in 153 cases (47.8%), with focal parenchymal atrophy (26.6%) being the most common followed by MPD dilatation (11.3%). Focal parenchymal atrophy was the earliest detectable sign among all suspicious findings and became visible on average 2.7 years before diagnosis, and the next most common, MPD dilatation, 1.1 years before diagnosis. Other findings, such as retention cysts, were less frequent and appeared around 1 year before diagnosis. Focal parenchymal atrophy followed by MPD dilatation was observed in 10 patients but not in reverse order. Focal parenchymal atrophy was more frequently detected in the pancreatic body/tail. No significant relationship was found between the pathological pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma differentiation or tumor stage and the time course of the CT findings. All cases of focal parenchymal atrophy progressed just prior to diagnosis, and the atrophic area was occupied by tumor at diagnosis. Main pancreatic duct dilatation continued to progress until diagnosis.

Conclusion

This large‐scale study revealed that the temporal progression of focal parenchymal atrophy is the earliest detectable sign indicating pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. These results provide crucial insights for early pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma detection.
Intracranial invasion of a mast cell tumour in a dog: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Kingsbury Edward , Odatzoglou Petros , Peschard A. L. , Wong Hannah , Elders Richard
Published: March 2024

An 11‐year‐old, female‐neutered beagle was presented with a growing soft tissue mass arising within the deep tissues of the left cranial cervical region. At presentation, facial asymmetry was evident along with palpable lymphadenomegaly. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a locally invasive cervical mass with intracranial invasion through focal osteolysis of the occipital bone. After antihistamine administration, cytology confirmed mast cell tumour (MCT) with metastasis to local lymph nodes and liver. The owner chose to pursue lomustine and prednisolone, which were dispensed, but, before home administration, prolonged seizures/status epilepticus occurred prompting euthanasia. Postmortem examination confirmed a high‐grade MCT associated with, and infiltrating through, muscle, calvarium, dura mata, leptomeninges and the underlying brain. We present the clinical, imaging, and pathological findings of an unprecedented case of extracranial MCT tumour causing osteolysis of an imperforate flat bone (occipital bone) and intracranial invasion.
A combined score for predicting clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula based on inflammatory parameters and drainage fluid culture results on postoperative day 3
Authors: Suto Hironobu , Matsukawa Hiroyuki , Ando Yasuhisa , Oshima Minoru , Fuke Takuro , Norikane Takashi , Sanomura Takayuki , Kamada Hideki , Kobara Hideki , Masaki Tsutomu , Kumamoto Kensuke , Okano Keiichi
Published: March 2024

Background

Clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (CR‐POPF) after pancreatic resection can lead to severe postoperative complications. POPF is defined based on postoperative day (POD) 3 drainage fluid amylase level. POPF correlates with inflammatory parameters as well as drainage fluid bacterial infection. However, a standardized model based on these factors for predicting CR‐POPF remains elusive. We aimed to identify inflammatory parameter‐ and drainage fluid culture‐related risk factors for CR‐POPF on POD 3 after pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) and distal pancreatectomy (DP).

Methods

Data from 351 patients who underwent PD or DP between 2013 and 2022 at a single institution were retrospectively analyzed. Risk factors for CR‐POPF were investigated using multivariate analyses, and a prediction model combining the risk factors for CR‐POPF was developed.

Results

Of the 351 patients, 254 and 97 underwent PD and DP, respectively. Multivariate analyses revealed that drainage fluid amylase level ≥722 IU/L, culture positivity, as well as neutrophil count ≥5473/mm3 on POD 3 were independent risk factors for CR‐POPF in PD group. Similarly, drainage fluid, amylase level ≥500 IU/L, and culture positivity on POD 3 as well as pancreatic thickness ≥11.1 mm were independent risk factors in the DP group. The model for predicting CR‐POPF achieved the maximum overall accuracy rate when the number of risk factors was ≥2 in both the PD and DP groups.

Conclusions

Inflammatory parameters on POD 3 significantly influence the risk of CR‐POPF onset after pancreatectomy. The combined models based on these values can accurately predict the risk of CR‐POPF after pancreatectomy.
Arztbegleitete Interhospitaltransporte – eine Analyse aus Schleswig-Holstein
Authors: Köser Andrea , Eimer Christine , Feth Maximilian , Lorenzen Ulf , Seewald Stephan , Lehn Henrik , Corzillius Michael , Schmalbach Bjarne , Reifferscheid Florian
Published: March 2024

Hintergrund

Durch Veränderungen in der Krankenhauslandschaft nehmen Interhospitaltransporte (IHT) einen immer höheren Stellenwert im Rettungsdienst ein. Durch die Spannbreite der Anforderungen hinsichtlich Personals und Rettungsmittel bedürfen diese Transporte einer sorgfältigen Einsatzplanung.

Zielsetzung

Um den Status quo zu untersuchen, führten wir eine Analyse im Versorgungsbereich der Integrierten Regionalleitstelle Mitte (IRLS-Mitte) in Schleswig-Holstein durch.

Material und Methoden

Im Zeitraum vom 01.10.2021 bis 30.09.2022 wurden arztbegleitete IHT analysiert.

Ergebnisse

Von insgesamt 158.823 dokumentierten Einsätzen der ILRS-Mitte konnten 2264 (1,4 %) Datensätze als arztbegleitete IHT identifiziert und eingeschlossen werden. Es erfolgten 1389 Transporte (61,4 %) durch spezialisierte Rettungsmittel, sowie 875 (38,6 %) durch Rettungsmittel der Primärversorgung. Der Einsatz von Primärrettungsmittel erfolgte schwerpunktmäßig bei zeitkritischen Verlegungen und außerhalb der Dienstzeiten des Intensivtransportwagens (ITW)/Verlegungseinsatzfahrzeugs (VEF), 21,2 % erfolgten luftgebunden. Bei 43,1 % aller Transporte handelte es sich um Aufwärtsverlegungen.

Diskussion

Arztbegleitete IHT nehmen einen relevanten Anteil am Einsatzspektrum des Rettungsdiensts ein und betreffen sowohl Rettungsmittel der Primärversorgung als auch spezialisierte Rettungsmittel. Außerhalb der Vorhaltezeiten von ITW/VEF übernehmen Notarzteinsatzfahrzeuge (NEF) und Rettungstransporthubschrauber (RTH) vorrangig die Transporte. Für die nächtlichen Notfalltransporte ist aufgrund des Zeitvorteils eine Ausweitung der luftgebundenen Verlegungskapazitäten zu erwägen. Für weniger dringliche Transporte könnte eine Anpassung der Kapazitäten spezialisierter bodengebundener Rettungsmittel in Schleswig-Holstein sinnvoll sein.
Staged trees and asymmetry-labeled DAGs
Authors: Varando Gherardo , Carli Federico , Leonelli Manuele
Published: March 2024

Bayesian networks are a widely-used class of probabilistic graphical models capable of representing symmetric conditional independence between variables of interest using the topology of the underlying graph. For categorical variables, they can be seen as a special case of the much more general class of models called staged trees, which can represent any non-symmetric conditional independence. Here we formalize the relationship between these two models and introduce a minimal Bayesian network representation of a staged tree, which can be used to read conditional independences intuitively. A new labeled graph termed asymmetry-labeled directed acyclic graph is defined, with edges labeled to denote the type of dependence between any two random variables. We also present a novel algorithm to learn staged trees which only enforces a specific subset of non-symmetric independences. Various datasets illustrate the methodology, highlighting the need to construct models that more flexibly encode and represent non-symmetric structures.
Clinical evidence for efficacy of pembrolizumab in MSI-H and TMB-H advanced solid tumor: results from three cancer centers in China
Authors: Yan Huan , Song Lianxi , Li Yizhi , Xu Qinqin , Guo Wenhuan , Lin Shaoding , Jiang Wenjuan , Wang Zhan , Deng Li , Huang Zhe , Qin Haoyue , Zhang Xing , Tong Fan , Zhang Ruiguang , Liu Zhaoyi , Zhang Lin , Yu Juan , Dong Xiaorong , Gong Qian , Deng Jun , Chen Xue , Wang Jing , Zhang Gao , Yang Nong , Zhang Yongchang , Zeng Liang
Published: March 2024

Background

Pembrolizumab has been indicated in the treatment of solid tumors with high frequency microsatellite instability (MSI-H) or high tumor mutational burden (TMB-H); however, real-world data on the effectiveness of pembrolizumab with or without chemotherapy in this molecular subset remain limited. Our retrospective study evaluated the clinical efficacy and safety of pembrolizumab in treating advanced solid tumors with either MSI-H or TMB-H.

Methods

This retrospective study analyzed data from 116 patients with MSI-H or TMB-H advanced solid cancers who received pembrolizumab with or without chemotherapy regardless of treatment setting. We analyzed objective response rate (ORR) and progression-free survival (PFS).

Results

The top three cancer types were colorectal (48.6% MSI-H, 6.5% TMB-H), lung (15.4% MSI-H, 84.4% TMB-H), and gastric (15.4% MSI-H, 5.1% TMB-H). The ORR with pembrolizumab was 52.6%, including complete response (CR) observed in 8.6% (n = 10) of cases and partial responses (PR) in 43.9% (n = 51). Of the 93 patients who received first-line pembrolizumab, 52 patients achieved objective response (10 CR, 42 PR), with a median PFS of 14.0 months (95% confidence intervals [CI] 6.6–21.4). Of the 23 who received subsequent-line pembrolizumab, the ORR was 39.1%, disease control rate was 91.3%, and median PFS was 5.7 months (95% CI 3.9–7.5). Treatment-related adverse events were observed in 32 patients (27.6%), with no reported treatment-related fatal adverse events.

Conclusion

Our study provides real-world evidence on the clinical effectiveness of pembrolizumab with or without chemotherapy in the treatment of patients with MSI-H and TMB-H advanced solid cancers.
Ultra-long-term efficacy and safety of catheter-based renal denervation in resistant hypertension: 10-year follow-up outcomes
Authors: Al Ghorani Hussam , Kulenthiran Saarraaken , Lauder Lucas , Recktenwald Michael Johannes Maria , Dederer Juliane , Kunz Michael , Götzinger Felix , Ewen Sebastian , Ukena Christian , Böhm Michael , Mahfoud Felix
Published: March 2024

Background

Randomized sham-controlled trials have confirmed the efficacy and safety of catheter-based renal denervation in hypertension. Data on the very long-term effects of renal denervation are scarce.

Aims

This study evaluates the 10-year safety and efficacy of renal denervation in resistant hypertension.

Methods

This prospective single-center study included patients with resistant hypertension undergoing radio-frequency renal denervation between 2010 and 2012. Office blood pressure, 24-h ambulatory blood pressure, antihypertensive medication, color duplex sonography, and renal function were assessed after 1-, 2- and 10-years.

Results

Thirty-nine patients completed the 10-year follow-up (mean follow-up duration 9.4 ± 0.7 years). Baseline office and 24-h ambulatory systolic blood pressure were 164 ± 23 mmHg and 153 ± 16 mmHg, respectively. After 10 years, 24-h ambulatory and office systolic blood pressure were reduced by 16 ± 17 mmHg (P < 0.001) and 14 ± 23 mmHg (P = 0.001), respectively. The number of antihypertensive drugs remained unchanged from 4.9 ± 1.4 to 4.5 ± 1.2 drugs (P = 0.087). The estimated glomerular filtration rate declined within the expected range from 69 (95% CI 63 to 74) to 60 mL/min/1.73m2 (95% CI 53 to 68; P < 0.001) through 10-year follow-up. Three renal artery interventions were documented for progression of pre-existing renal artery stenosis in two patients and one patient with new-onset renal artery stenosis. No other adverse events were observed during the follow-up.

Conclusion

Renal denervation was safe and sustainedly reduced ambulatory and office blood pressure out to 10 years in patients with resistant hypertension.

Graphical abstract

Left panel, Change in 24-h and office SBP. Right panel, eGFR over time. SBP, systolic blood pressure; eGFR, estimated glomerular filtration rate.
Evaluation of the effect of cervical and lumbar disc herniations on female sexual function: a comparative prospective study
Authors: GamalEl Din Sameh Fayek , Nabil Nashaat , Alaa Mohamed , Salam Mohamed Ahmed Abdel , Raef Ahmed , Elhalaly Rana Barakat , Abo Sief Ahmed
Published: March 2024

Purpose

We aimed to evaluate the effect of cervical disc herniation (CDH) and lumbar disc herniation (LDH) on female sexual functioning before and after surgical intervention.

Methods

The current study was conducted from February 2022 to February 2023. A total of 100 sexually active female patients in their reproductive phase who were diagnosed with CDH and LDH based on physical examination and previous magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) results, as well as 50 healthy females, were enrolled. The female subjects were evaluated using the validated Arabic version of the female sexual function index (ArFSFI), a 0 to 10 visual analogue scale (VAS), the Oswestry disability index (ODI) and Beck’s depression index (BDI).

Results

The baseline ArFSFI domains and total scores were greatest in the controls, followed by the CDH group. The ArFSFI domains and total scores were greatest in the control group, followed by the postoperative ArFSFI domains and total scores in the cervical group. The variations in satisfaction, pain, and overall ArFSFI ratings were significant across research groups. The difference in desire, arousal, lubrication, and orgasm was substantial in the lumbosacral group, but there were no significant changes between the cervical and control groups. Postoperatively, ArFSFI domains and overall scores improved in both of the cervical and lumbar groups. Both research groups’ ODI score and grade improved after surgery. Finally, both groups’ BDI score and grade improved after surgery.

Conclusion

Female sexual dysfunctions caused by CDH and LDH improved considerably after surgery.
Assessing adverse childhood experiences in young refugees: a systematic review of available questionnaires
Authors: Abdelhamid Shaymaa , Kraaijenvanger Eline , Fischer Joachim , Steinisch Maria
Published: March 2024

Today, various questionnaires are available to assess Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) in children; however, it is uncertain if these questionnaires are comprehensive in addressing adversities of vulnerable subgroups, specifically refugee children. This review’s objectives are to (1) identify current ACE questionnaires and determine if they are suitable in assessing refugee children’s adversities, and (2) identify those previously used within a refugee population. A systematic literature search was conducted across five databases for articles published since 2010, including studies using an ACE-questionnaire that recognized multiple adversities in healthy children and were published in English. A total of 103 ACE questionnaires were identified in 506 studies. Only 14 of the 103 questionnaires addressed a refugee-specific adversity. Their ability to capture refugee children’s experiences was limited: available questionnaires used a maximum of three items to assess refugee-specific adversities, covering only a fraction of forms of adversities relevant to refugee children. Psychometric characteristics were rarely reported. In addition, only two ACE questionnaires were used within a refugee population. With the tools currently available, it is not possible to comprehensively assess the exposure to and severity of the adversities faced by refugee children. The perpetuation of ongoing crises necessitates assessing refugee children’s adversities to understand how their wellbeing is affected and to identify children at risk.
Toxicity of persistent organic pollutants: a theoretical study
Authors: Martínez Ana
Published: March 2024

Context

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are two families of persistent organic pollutants that are dangerous as they remain in the atmosphere for long periods and are toxic for humans and animals. They are found all over the world, including the penguins of Antarctica. One of the mechanisms that explains the toxicity of these compounds is related to oxidative stress. The main idea of this theoretical research is to use conceptual density functional theory as a theory of chemical reactivity to analyze the oxidative stress that PCBs and PBDEs can produce. The electron transfer properties as well as the interaction with DNA nitrogenous bases of nine PCBs and ten PBDEs found in Antarctic penguins are investigated. From this study, it can be concluded that compounds with more chlorine or bromine atoms are more oxidizing and produce more oxidative stress. These molecules also interact directly with the nitrogenous bases of DNA, forming hydrogen bonds, and this may be an explanation for the toxicity. Since quinone-type metabolites of PCBs and PBDEs can cause neurotoxicity, examples of quinones are also investigated. Condensed Fukui functions are included to analyze local reactivity. These results are important as the reactivity of these compounds helps to explain the toxicity of PCBs and PBDEs.

Methods

All DFT computations were performed using Gaussian16 at M06-2x/6–311 + g(2d,p) level of theory without symmetry constraints. Electro-donating (ω-) and electro-accepting (ω +) powers were used as global response functions and condensed Fukui functions as local parameters of reactivity.
The Impact of External Pressure on Companies’ Responses to Sanctions – an International Comparative Study
Authors: Stępień Beata , Early Bryan R. , Grauvogel Julia , Preble Keith A. , Truskolaski Szymon
Published: March 2024

What explains the strategies firms adopt in response to economic sanctions? Our study argues that different types of external pressure, such as public shaming, the nature of companies’ business relationships, and national-level legal-regulatory environments affects how firms respond to the sanctions imposed against Russia after its 2022 invasion of Ukraine. We develop a suite of hypotheses about how external pressure affects firms’ compliance behaviors and whether firms adopt reactive and/or proactive strategic responses. We test our hypotheses by analyzing results from a survey of 610 medium-sized companies operating in Germany, Poland, and the United States. Using structural equation modeling (SEM), we find that external pressure is associated with higher levels of compliance and overcompliance with sanctions but is also associated with undercompliant behavior. We also find that compliance with sanctions is associated with a high degree of proactive response, which suggests compliant firms may often seek out legal means of circumventing sanctions. We further observed variation in the effects of external pressure, compliance behavior, and strategic responses on US firms compared to those in European Union members Germany and Poland.
What is conceptual disruption?
Authors: Marchiori Samuela , Scharp Kevin
Published: March 2024

Recent work on philosophy of technology emphasises the ways in which technology can disrupt our concepts and conceptual schemes. We analyse and challenge existing accounts of conceptual disruption, criticising views according to which conceptual disruption can be understood in terms of uncertainty for conceptual application, as well as views assuming all instances of conceptual disruption occur at the same level. We proceed to provide our own account of conceptual disruption as an interruption in the normal functioning of concepts and conceptual schemes. Moreover, we offer a multilevel taxonomy thereof, where we distinguish between instances of conceptual disruptions occurring at different levels (conceptual scheme, conceptual clusters, and individual concepts), taking on different forms (conceptual gaps and conceptual conflicts), and leading to different degrees of severity (extending from mild to severe). We also provide detailed accounts through historical examples of how conceptual gaps and conceptual conflicts can occur at different times in the very same process of conceptual disruption. Finally, we make the case that different kinds of conceptual engineering can provide meaningful ways to assess and overcome distinct types of conceptual disruption.
On the Distances Within Cliques in a Soft Random Geometric Graph
Authors: Sönmez Ercan , Stegehuis Clara
Published: March 2024

We study the distances of vertices within cliques in a soft random geometric graph on a torus, where the vertices are points of a homogeneous Poisson point process, and far-away points are less likely to be connected than nearby points. We obtain the scaling of the maximal distance between any two points within a clique of size k. Moreover, we show that asymptotically in all cliques with large distances, there is only one remote point and all other points are nearby. Furthermore, we prove that a re-scaled version of the maximal k-clique distance converges in distribution to a Fréchet distribution. Thereby, we describe the order of magnitude according to which the largest distance between two points in a clique decreases with the clique size.
Pertechnetate removal from aqueous solutions by chitosan/hydroxyapatite composites
Authors: Hagara Pivarčiová Lucia , Rosskopfová Oľga , Hupian Marek , Viglašová Eva , Galamboš Michal , Juračka Dominik , Rajec Pavol
Published: March 2024

This study focuses on the usage of chitosan/hydroxyapatite composites for pertechnetate removal from aqueous solutions. Pertechnetate, a prominent radionuclide in nuclear waste, presents environmental hazards due to its long half-life and mobility. The composites, formed by intergrating hydroxyapatite into chitosan matrices, demonstrate in situ nanohydroxyapatite generation. Investigation of the adsorption process involves assessing parameters like pH, contact time, and the influence of competetive ions. This research provides valuable insights for using composites to mitigate pertechnetate contamination.
Harmonious Mutual Learning for Facial Emotion Recognition
Authors: Gan Yanling , Xu Luhui , Xia Haiying , Liu Gan
Published: March 2024

Facial emotion recognition in the wild is an important task in computer vision, but it still remains challenging since the influence of backgrounds, occlusions and illumination variations in facial images, as well as the ambiguity of expressions. This paper proposes a harmonious mutual learning framework for emotion recognition, mainly through utilizing attention mechanisms and probability distributions without utilizing additional information. Specifically, this paper builds an architecture with two emotion recognition networks and makes progressive cooperation and interaction between them. We first integrate self-mutual attention module into the backbone to learn discriminative features against the influence from emotion-irrelevant facial information. In this process, we deploy spatial attention module and convolutional block attention module for the two networks respectively, guiding to enhanced and supplementary learning of attention. Further, in the classification head, we propose to learn the latent ground-truth emotion probability distributions using softmax function with temperature to characterize the expression ambiguity. On this basis, a probability distribution distillation learning module is constructed to perform class semantic interaction using bi-directional KL loss, allowing mutual calibration for the two networks. Experimental results on three public datasets show the superiority of the proposed method compared to state-of-the-art ones.
Density-Based Discriminative Nonnegative Representation Model for Imbalanced Classification
Authors: Li Yanting , Wang Shuai , Jin Junwei , Tao Hongwei , Nan Jiaofen , Wu Huaiguang , Chen C. L. Philip
Published: March 2024

Representation-based methods have found widespread applications in various classification tasks. However, these methods cannot deal effectively with imbalanced data scenarios. They tend to neglect the importance of minority samples, resulting in bias toward the majority class. To address this limitation, we propose a density-based discriminative nonnegative representation approach for imbalanced classification tasks. First, a new class-specific regularization term is incorporated into the framework of a nonnegative representation based classifier (NRC) to reduce the correlation between classes and improve the discrimination ability of the NRC. Second, a weight matrix is generated based on the hybrid density information of each sample’s neighbors and the decision boundary, which can assign larger weights to minority samples and thus reduce the preference for the majority class. Furthermore, the resulting model can be efficiently optimized through the alternating direction method of multipliers. Extensive experimental results demonstrate that our proposed method is superior to numerous state-of-the-art imbalanced learning methods.
MicroRNA-124-3p Modulates Alpha-Synuclein Expression Levels in a Paraquat-Induced in vivo Model for Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Esteves Marta , Cristóvão Ana Clara , Vale Ana , Machado-Pereira Marta , Ferreira Raquel , Bernardino Liliana
Published: March 2024

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disease and the most common movement disorder. Although PD etiology is not fully understood, alpha (α)-synuclein is a key protein involved in PD pathology. MicroRNAs (miRNA), small gene regulatory RNAs that control gene expression, have been identified as biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for brain diseases, including PD. In particular, miR-124 is downregulated in the plasma and brain samples of PD patients. Recently we showed that the brain delivery of miR-124 counteracts 6-hydroxydopamine-induced motor deficits. However, its role in α-synuclein pathology has never been addressed. Here we used paraquat (PQ)-induced rat PD model to evaluate the role of miR-124-3p in α-synuclein accumulation and dopaminergic neuroprotection. Our results showed that an intranigral administration of miR-124-3p reduced the expression and aggregation of α-synuclein in the substantia nigra (SN) of rats exposed to PQ. NADPH oxidases (NOX), responsible for reactive oxygen species generation, have been considered major players in the development of α-synuclein pathology. Accordingly, miR-124-3p decreased protein expression levels of NOX1 and its activator, small GTPase Rac1, in the SN of PQ-lesioned rats. Moreover, miR-124-3p was able to counteract the reduced levels of pituitary homeobox 3 (PITX3), a protein required for the dopaminergic phenotype, induced by PQ in the SN. This is the first study showing that miR-124-3p decreases PQ-induced α-synuclein levels and the associated NOX1/Rac1 signaling pathway, and impacts PITX3 protein levels, supporting the potential of miR-124-3p as a disease-modifying agent for PD and related α-synucleinopathies.
Transitory shocks, limited attention, and a firm’s decision to exit
Authors: Goldfarb Avi , Xiao Mo
Published: March 2024

This paper investigates the incidence of limited attention in a high-stakes business setting: a bar owner may be unable to purge transitory shocks from noisy profit signals when deciding whether to exit. Combining a 24-year monthly panel on the alcohol revenues from every bar in Texas with weather data, we find suggestive evidence that inexperienced, distantly located owners may overreact to the transitory component of revenue relative to the persistent component. This apparent asymmetric response is muted under higher revenue fluctuations. We formulate and estimate a structural model to endogenize attention allocation by owners with different thinking cost. Under the assumptions of the model, we find that 3.9% bars make incorrect exit decisions due to limited attention. As exits are irreversible, permanent decisions, small mistakes at the margin interpreting profit signals can lead to large welfare losses for entrepreneurs.
Analysis of the influence of emotions on the decision-making of entrepreneurs using neurotechnologies
Authors: Serna-Zuluaga Juan Camilo , Juárez-Varón David , Mengual-Recuerda Ana , Medina-López Ana
Published: March 2024

This study examines the influence of emotional factors on entrepreneurial decision-making, specifically focusing on early-stage entrepreneurs and those with more years of experience in the entrepreneurial process. The aim is to understand how emotional intensity affects business decisions at different stages of entrepreneurship. Neuroqualitative interviews were conducted using a stratified sample of entrepreneurs. The methodology included semi-structured interviews. Galvanic Skin Response (GSR) technology was employed to simultaneously measure participants’ emotional levels during the interviews. The results revealed significant differences in emotional levels between novice and experienced entrepreneurs concerning the analysed emotional factors. Novice entrepreneurs exhibited higher levels of anxiety and fear, especially in questions not previously anticipated, while experienced entrepreneurs showed confidence and a more optimistic outlook, particularly on topics related to long-term consolidation and revenue forecasting. This study highlights originality by demonstrating the importance of emotional factors in entrepreneurial decision-making and their variation over time in the entrepreneurial process. The use of GSR technology in neuroqualitative interviews adds a unique dimension by providing an objective assessment of entrepreneurs’ emotional levels, thus complementing the qualitative richness of verbal responses. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of emotional complexity in business decision-making and emphasize the need to consider these aspects in entrepreneurship support strategies.
The orthographic representation of a word’s morphological structure: beneficial and detrimental effect for spellers
Authors: Sandra Dominiek , Ravid Dorit , Plag Ingo
Published: March 2024

In this paper we present a review of the literature on the role of a word’s morphological structure in written language processing, with an emphasis on spelling. First, we describe that many orthographies have opted for a representation of a word’s morphological structure. Second, we discuss experiments that have demonstrated the importance of a word’s morphological structure in reading, both in isolated word recognition experiments (so-called blind morphological decomposition) and in reading for meaning. Third, we discuss experimental findings that the written representation of a word’s morphological structure can have beneficial effects in spelling, already in young children with a good morphological awareness. However, several experiments have also shown that, in some circumstances, the speller’s task of representing morphology in written words creates considerable challenges and causes spelling errors rather than providing assistance. Closer inspection of this dissociation between beneficial and harmful effects reveals that two factors play a crucial role in determining the error risk: (a) the distinction between stems and affixes (i.e., morphological accessibility based on semantic transparency) and (b) the frequency with which a morpheme type in a language (stem, affix) must be retrieved in writing texts (accessibility based on type and token frequency). The review offers a theoretical framework against which the other papers in this special issue can be situated.
Short fasting test as a reliable and effective tool to diagnose insulinoma
Authors: Mikovic Nevena , Mazzilli Rossella , Zamponi Virginia , Russo Flaminia , Mancini Camilla , Mori Fedra , Bollanti Lucilla , Conti Francesco , Motta Cecilia , Monti Salvatore , Pugliese Giuseppe , Faggiano Antongiulio
Published: March 2024

Purpose

The diagnosis of insulinoma can be challenging, requiring documentation of hypoglycaemia associated with non-suppressed insulin and C-peptide, often achieved during a prolonged 72 h fast performed in inpatient setting. Our goal is to predict weather a shorter outpatient fasting test initiated overnight and prolonged up until 24 h could be a sensitive method for diagnosing insulinoma.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective monocentric study on subjects admitted to our Unit of Endocrinology from 2019 to 2022 for clinical suspicion of insulinoma and underwent the short fasting test. A comparison between the short test group and the group of subjects who underwent the standard prolonged fasting test (from 2003 to 2018) has also been performed. The short fasting test was initiated by the patient overnight at home and proceeded the following day in outpatient setting (Day Hospital). As in the standard protocol, symptoms and capillary blood glucose (CBG) were strictly monitored. Venous blood was drawn for glycaemia, insulin and C-peptide at admission and at established intervals, in case of symptoms of hypoglycaemia or if CBG ≤ 45 mg/dl, when the fast would be suspended.

Results

The final sample consisted of 37 patients, with mean age of 44.5 ± 12.6 years (17–74). Short and standard tests were performed in 15 and 22 subjects, respectively. Diagnostic values for insulinoma were observed in 12 patients: in 5/15 who underwent the short fasting test, in 6/22 who underwent the prolonged test and in 1 patient who was initially negative on the short test and subsequently showed diagnostic values during the prolonged test. The diagnosis of insulinoma was achieved in 11/12 cases within 24 h of the beginning of the fast (91.7%).

Conclusions

A short fasting test could be a valid, sensitive and reliable first-line workup in diagnosing insulinoma.
Smart system for water quality monitoring utilizing long-range-based Internet of Things
Authors: Murti Muhammad Ary , Saputra Andi Rudi Adhy , Alinursafa Ibnu , Ahmed Ali Najah , Yafouz Ayman , El-Shafie Ahmed
Published: March 2024

Water is the most basic need for humans and a source of livelihood for humans. Lack of human awareness to maintain water quality, causing water to become polluted, by both industrial and household waste, impacts on human health and material loss. Thus, it is important to create technology that can monitor water pollution automatically and quickly. This research aims to create a system which utilizes the Internet of Things (IoT) technology that can facilitate quality of water by measuring parameters such as pH and turbidity. The methodology of the system progresses by the usage of a controller which is ATmega328P-AU, pH sensor to measure acidity, turbidity sensor to measure turbidity level, LPWAN LoRa works like a communication of data transmission as well as cloud service, namely Antares, to store data that are sent via Android. Based on the outcomes, the proposed system has achieved a reliable accuracy with percentage error of 99.73% in pH sensor and 99.41% in the turbidity sensor. Also, 2.6 s is the average required time to deliver the results to the cloud service.
Study of the hydrologic and hydrodynamic coupling model (HHDCM) and application in urban extreme flood systems
Authors: Zhou Ke
Published: March 2024

Based on urban flood hydrology processes and hydrodynamic principles, the stormwater management model (SWMM) was improved upon. The coupling and implementation methods of the SWMM and two-dimensional hydrodynamic model are proposed. The improved SWMM was coupled with the hydrodynamic model both from the vertical and horizontal directions. The hydrology and hydrodynamic coupling model (HHDCM) was constructed and verified by using extreme rainstorm data. Taking July.20 extreme rainstorms (from July 17 to July 20, 2021, i.e., July.20 extreme rainstorm) in Zhengzhou city, Henan Province, China, as an example and using the HHDCM model, the flood disaster caused by July.20 extreme rainstorm was simulated. Based on the simulation results, an inundation distribution map was drawn for the urban area. A comparison between the simulated and measured results reveals that the maximum relative error in the simulated results is 12.5%. Therefore, the HHDCM model proposed in this paper has desirable accuracy and reliability for simulating extreme urban rainstorms and flood disasters.
Nanocrystals and nanosuspensions: an exploration from classic formulations to advanced drug delivery systems
Authors: Rossier Benjamin , Jordan Olivier , Allémann Eric , Rodríguez-Nogales Carlos
Published: March 2024

Nanocrystals and nanosuspensions have become realistic approaches to overcome the formulation challenges of poorly water-soluble drugs. They also represent a less-known but versatile platform for multiple therapeutic applications. They can be integrated into a broad spectrum of drug delivery systems including tablets, hydrogels, microneedles, microparticles, or even functionalized liposomes. The recent progresses, challenges, and opportunities in this field are gathered originally together with an informative case study concerning an itraconazole nanosuspension-in-hydrogel formulation. The translational aspects, historical and current clinical perspectives are also critically reviewed here to shed light on the incoming generation of nanocrystal formulations.
Markers for the detection of Lewy body disease versus Alzheimer’s disease in mild cognitive impairment: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Burgio Marianna Ilarj , Veronese Nicola , Sarà Davide , Saccaro Carlo , Masnata Roberta , Vassallo Giusy , Catania Angela , Catanese Giuseppina , Mueller Christoph , Smith Lee , Dominguez Ligia Juliana , Vernuccio Laura , Barbagallo Mario
Published: March 2024

Background

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) may evolve into dementia. Early recognition of possible evolution to Alzheimer's disease (AD) and dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB) is of importance, but actual diagnostic criteria have some limitations. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we aimed to find the most accurate markers that can discriminate patients with DLB versus AD, in MCI stage.

Methods

We searched several databases up to 17 August 2023 including studies comparing markers that may distinguish DLB-MCI from AD-MCI. We reported data regarding sensitivity, specificity, and the area under the curves (AUCs) with their 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

Among 2219 articles initially screened, eight case–control studies and one cohort study were included for a total of 832 outpatients with MCI. The accuracy of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) markers was the highest among the markers considered (AUC > 0.90 for the CSF markers), with the AUC of CSF Aβ42/Aβ40 of 0.94. The accuracy for clinical symptom scales was very good (AUC = 0.93), as evaluated in three studies. Although limited to one study, the accuracy of FDG-PET (cingulate island sign ratio) was very good (AUC = 0.95) in discriminating DLB from AD in MCI, while the accuracy of SPECT markers and EEG frequencies was variable.

Conclusions

Few studies have assessed the accuracy of biomarkers and clinical tools to distinguish DLB from AD at the MCI stage. While results are promising for CSF markers, FDG-PET and clinical symptoms scales, more studies, particularly with a prospective design, are needed to evaluate their accuracy and clinical usefulness.

Clinical trial registration: Prospero (CRD42023422600).
Targeting Aquaporin-5 by Phosphodiesterase 4 Inhibition Offers New Therapeutic Opportunities for Ovarian Ischemia Reperfusion Injury in Rats
Authors: Bozkurt Ayse , Karakoy Zeynep , Aydin Pelin , Ozdemir Bengul , Toktay Erdem , Halici Zekai , Cadirci Elif
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to examine the effect of Phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibition on Aquaporin-5 (AQP5) and its potential cell signaling pathway in the ovarian ischemia reperfusion (OIR) model. Thirty adult female rats were divided into five groups: Group 1; Control: Sham operation, Group 2; OIR that 3 hour ischemia followed by 3 hour reperfusion, Group 3; OIR + Rolipram 1 mg/kg, Group 4; OIR + Rolipram 3 mg/kg, Group 5; OIR + Rolipram 5 mg/kg. Rolipram was administered intraperitoneally to the rats in groups 3-4 and 5 at determined doses 30 minutes before reperfusion. From ovary tissue; Tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-α), Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), Nuclear factor kappa (NF-κB), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), Phosphodiesterase 4D (PDE4D), Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and AQP5 levels were measured by ELISA. We also measured the level of AQP5 in ovary tissue by real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). In the OIR groups; TNF-α, NF-κB, IL-6, MAPK inflammatory levels increased, and cAMP and AQP5 levels decreased, which improved with the administration of rolipram doses. Also histopathological results showed damaged ovarian tissue after OIR, while rolipram administration decrased tissue damage in a dose dependent manner. We propose that the protective effect of PDE4 inhibition in OIR may be regulated by AQP5 and its potential cell signaling pathway and may be a new target in OIR therapy. However, clinical studies are needed to appraise these data in humans.
Evaluation and health risk assessment of phthalates in Okpa (cow pea pudding) packaged and cooked with polyethene bags in Nsukka, Enugu state, South-East Nigeria
Authors: Nweze Ekene John , Arazu Amarachukwu Vivian , Nduka Florence O. , Amalunweze Adaude Euphemia
Published: March 2024

Environmental toxicants enter the body via ingestion, inhalation or dermal absorption. Food is one of the major ways by which these toxicants get into the body. Food packaging has evolved in so many ways that materials made with plastics and its additives (Phthalates) are now used. Phthalates are compounds used to make plastics to enhance its functionality. Some have been associated with some health hazards such as endocrine dysfunction, reproductive problems, skin irritations and cancer. The current study was performed to evaluate the risk associated with consuming phthalates in okpa (cow pea pudding). The phthalate quantification and health risks were evaluated using gas chromatography mass-spectrometry (GC–MS) and models adopted by environmental protection agency (EPA) respectively. The Phthalate identified in okpa were diethyl phthalate (DEP), di-n-Butyl phthalate (DBP), benzylbutyl phthalate (BBP), di-iso-butyl phthalate (DiBP), and di (2-ethylhexyl)phthalate DEHP. The total concentration of phthalate detected was 0.0653 mg/kg with DEP as the highest (0.0196 ± 0.000 mg/kg) and BBP as the least (0.0077 ± 0.001 mg.kg). The highest THQ evaluated was DiBP for both adults (2.84E−1) and children (1.42E−1). The THI for adults and children was 3.35E−1 and 3.01E−1 respectively. The THQ and THI values obtained for adults and children were all less than 1 implying that it is safe. The carcinogenic risk (CR) evaluated for adults and children were 7.23E−6 and 3.61E−5. These values obtained for the THQ, THI and CR all together were within the safe limits stipulated by USEPA, FAO and WHO. However, it is still pertinent to continuously monitor the level of phthalates that may migrate into okpa because red oil content variations may positively impact on its leaching ability.
Intuition in Kant
Authors: Smyth Daniel
Published: March 2024

In this book Daniel Smyth offers a comprehensive overview of Immanuel Kant's conception of intuition in all its species – divine, receptive, sensible, and human. Kant considers sense perception a paradigm of intuition, yet claims that we can represent infinities in intuition, despite the finitude of sense perception. Smyth examines this heterodox combination of commitments and argues that the various features Kant ascribes to intuition are meant to remedy specific cognitive shortcomings that arise from the discursivity of our intellect Intuition acting as the intellect's cognitive partner to make knowledge possible. He reconstructs Kant's conception of intuition and its role in his philosophy of mind, epistemology, and philosophy of mathematics, and shows that Kant's conception of sensibility is as innovative and revolutionary as his much-debated theory of the understanding.