bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Winter game crop plots for gamebirds retain hedgerow breeding songbirds in an improved grassland landscape
Authors: Sage Rufus , Woodburn Maureen , McCready Sam , Coomes Jenny
Published: February 2024

The cause of recent population declines in some farmland/hedgerow breeding bird species in the UK is related to a lack of cover and food resources in winter. In improved grassland areas some of those declines have been particularly acute and some have been shown to be related to the availability of grass and weed seed in winter. The provision of seed‐bearing crops as part of AES options has been shown to benefit some of these birds. Game crop plots sown on shooting estates for holding and driving gamebirds in autumn and winter have been shown to hold relatively high densities of farmland and wood‐edge birds during the winter.

We studied breeding songbirds in hedges in a primarily improved grassland area in the SW of England where there are some large shooting estates that sow relatively large game crop plots (1–5 ha) in the landscape. In this study we found that otherwise similar hedges in terms of size and density near to those winter game crop plots, had between 1.5 and 2 times as many breeding resident songbirds per unit length the following spring compared to hedges further away from game crop plots. This was despite game management in these plots being wound down during February and in many cases, the crops themselves being removed by mid‐March. Hedges within approximately 350 m from game crop plots had more breeding birds. We discuss possible mechanisms and suggest that some passerines preferentially establish breeding territories in hedges near to game crops in late winter. We suggest how to distribute game crop plots to maximise any benefit in an improved grassland landscape.
From Universal Rats to Future Jungle Foci: Actors and Places of Plague in Brazil (1899–1940s)
Authors: Silva Matheus Alves Duarte da
Published: February 2024

This chapter examines the history of plague in Brazil and its internalization in the country in the first half of the twentieth century, paying equal attention to global dynamics of plague studies and how Brazil interacted with them. Firstly, the chapter discusses plague as a problem located in the Brazilian ports and how Brazil took part in a global war against the rats. The chapter then discusses the internalization of plague in different rural and wild settings around the world and the emergence of the idea of sylvatic plague—the plague among wild rodents living in desertic environments. The chapter moves back to Brazil in the 1930s, when plague became a rural disease in the North-East of the country, examining important studies on the role of rats and wild rodents spreading the disease there. Finally, the chapter explores the growing fears in the 1940s that the plague could invade the Amazon and other rainforest regions. The chapter argues that during most of these fifty years, plague was framed in Brazil as a global scourge because its main spreaders, domestic rats, were seen as a universal menace present in every port and rural area of the world. It was only at the end of the period examined in the chapter that it gained a tropical dimension in Brazil, when the idea of sylvatic plague started to be understood as jungle plague, which constituted an original reinterpretation of the concept.
Improving the performance of weak supervision searches using transfer and meta-learning
Authors: Beauchesne Hugues , Chen Zong-En , Chiang Cheng-Wei
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Weak supervision searches have in principle the advantages of both being able to train on experimental data and being able to learn distinctive signal properties. However, the practical applicability of such searches is limited by the fact that successfully training a neural network via weak supervision can require a large amount of signal. In this work, we seek to create neural networks that can learn from less experimental signal by using transfer and meta-learning. The general idea is to first train a neural network on simulations, thereby learning concepts that can be reused or becoming a more efficient learner. The neural network would then be trained on experimental data and should require less signal because of its previous training. We find that transfer and meta-learning can substantially improve the performance of weak supervision searches.
Full three-loop renormalisation of an abelian chiral gauge theory with non-anticommuting γ5 in the BMHV scheme
Authors: Stöckinger Dominik , Weißwange Matthias
Published: February 2024

Abstract

In this work we present a complete three-loop renormalisation of an abelian chiral gauge theory within the Breitenlohner-Maison/’t Hooft-Veltman (BMHV) scheme of dimensional regularisation (DReg). In this scheme the γ5-matrix appearing in gauge interactions is a non-anticommuting object, leading to a breaking of gauge and BRST invariance. Employing an efficient method based on the quantum action principle, we obtain the complete three-loop counterterm action which serves both to render the theory finite and to restore gauge and BRST invariance. The UV singular counterterms involve not only higher order ϵ-poles but also new counterterm structures emerging at the three-loop level for the first time; the finite symmetry-restoring counterterms are restricted to the same structures as at lower loop orders, just with different coefficients, aligning with our expectations. Both the singular and the finite counterterms include structures which cannot be obtained by the standard multiplicative renormalisation. Our results demonstrate that a rigorous treatment of chiral gauge theories with γ5 defined in the BMHV scheme at the multi-loop level is possible and that the obtained counterterm action is suitable for computer implementations, allowing automated calculations without ambiguities caused by γ5.
Hyperlipidaemia in diabetes: are there particular considerations for next-generation therapies?
Authors: Béliard Sophie , Mourre Florian , Valéro René
Published: February 2024

Dyslipidaemias are major cardiovascular risk factors, especially in people with diabetes. In this area, next-generation therapies targeting circulating lipoparticle metabolism (LDL, VLDL, chylomicrons, HDL) have recently been approved by the European and US medical agencies, including anti- proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin 9 (PCSK9) antibodies; an siRNA targeting PCSK9; bempedoic acid, which targets ATP citrate lyase; an antisense oligonucleotide targeting apolipoprotein C-III; an anti-angiopoietin-like 3 antibody; and a purified omega-3 fatty acid, icosapent ethyl. Other therapies are in different phases of development. There are several important considerations concerning the link between these new lipid-lowering therapies and diabetes. First, since concerns were first raised in 2008 about an increased risk of new-onset diabetes mellitus (NODM) with intensive statin treatment, each new lipid-lowering therapy is being evaluated for its associated risk of NODM, particularly in individuals with prediabetes (impaired fasting glucose and/or impaired glucose tolerance). Second, people with diabetes represent a large proportion of those at high or very high cardiovascular risk in whom these lipid-lowering drugs are currently, or will be, prescribed. Thus, the efficacy of these drugs in subgroups with diabetes should also be closely considered, as well as any potential effects on glycaemic control. In this review, we describe the efficacy of next-generation therapies targeting lipoprotein metabolism in subgroups of people with diabetes and their effects on glycaemic control in individuals with diabetes and prediabetes and in normoglycaemic individuals.

Graphical Abstract
Cold formability of friction stir processed 5754-H111 and 6082-T6 aluminum alloys: an experimental and numerical study
Authors: Silvestri Alessia Teresa , Parodo Gianluca , Napolitano Francesco , El Hassanin Andrea , Scherillo Fabio , Sorrentino Luca , Squillace Antonino
Published: February 2024

Aluminum has become increasingly important in the automotive sector due to its ability to reduce vehicle weight without compromising structural performance. However, joining different types of aluminum alloys can be challenging due to their different thermal and mechanical characteristics. Concurrently, friction stir processing (FSP) is a material processing technique that has garnered considerable attention for its versatility and industrial applicability, and it may represent a preliminary phase to correctly perform friction stir welding, which is a welding technology used to join different types of aluminum alloys. In this context, this study presents an extensive experimental campaign of FSP performed on 5754-H111 and 6082-T6 alloys, varying two rolling directions and four welding speeds. The processed materials were characterized, including cupping and tensile tests, microstructure analysis, and a correlation between welding parameters, microstructure, and mechanical resistance. In addition, a numerical method was proposed to simulate the Erichsen tests and predict the formability of the materials, before and after the FSP processes. The results showed that both alloys exhibited good formability after the FSP process, but with different behavior. AA6082 underwent internal decohesion and dynamic recrystallization, resulting in the absence of defects and an increase in ductility and cold formability. AA5754 experiences more difficulty with material flow during FSP and showed the presence of tunnel defects in all analyzed process conditions. However, the alloy 5754 did not undergo softening and had comparable mechanical behavior and cold formability to the base material. These results were validated by the numerical method proposed.
Hybrid convolutional neural network and multilayer perceptron vision transformer model for wheat species classification task: E-ResMLP+
Authors: Dönmez Emrah
Published: February 2024

Wheat plant is one of the most basic food sources for the whole world. There are many species of wheat that differ according to the conditions of the region where they are grown. In this context, wheat species can exhibit different characteristics. Issues such as resistance to geographical conditions and productivity are at the forefront in this plant as in all other plants. The wheat species should be correctly distinguished for correct agricultural practice. In this study, a hybrid model based on the Vision Transformer (VT) approach and the Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) model was developed to classify wheat species. For this purpose, ResMLP architecture was modified and the EfficientNetV2b0 model was fine-tuned and improved. A hybrid transformer model has been developed by combining these two methods. As a result of the experiments, the overall accuracy performance has been determined as 98.33%. The potential power of the proposed method for computer-aided agricultural analysis systems is demonstrated.
Effects of autophagy-inhibiting chemicals on sialylation of Fc-fusion glycoprotein in recombinant CHO cells
Authors: Lee Hoon-Min , Park Jong-Ho , Kim Tae-Ho , Kim Hyun-Seung , Kim Dae Eung , Lee Mi Kyeong , You Jungmok , Lee Gyun Min , Kim Yeon-Gu
Published: February 2024

The occurrence of autophagy in recombinant Chinese hamster ovary (rCHO) cell culture has attracted attention due to its effects on therapeutic protein production. Given the significance of glycosylation in therapeutic proteins, this study examined the effects of autophagy-inhibiting chemicals on sialylation of Fc-fusion glycoproteins in rCHO cells. Three chemical autophagy inhibitors known to inhibit different stages were separately treated with two rCHO cell lines that produce the same Fc-fusion glycoprotein derived from DUKX-B11 and DG44. All autophagy inhibitors significantly decreased the sialylation of Fc-fusion glycoprotein in both cell lines. The decrease in sialylation of Fc-fusion glycoprotein is unlikely to be attributed to the release of intracellular enzymes, given the high cell viability and low activity of extracellular sialidases. Interestingly, the five intracellular nucleotide sugars remained abundant in cells treated with autophagy inhibitors. In the mRNA expression profiles of 27 N-glycosylation-related genes using the NanoString nCounter system, no significant differences in gene expression were noted. With the positive effect of supplementing nucleotide sugar precursors on sialylation, attempts were made to enhance the levels of intracellular nucleotide sugars by supplying these precursors. The addition of nucleotide sugar precursors to cultures treated with inhibitors successfully enhanced the sialylation of Fc-fusion glycoproteins compared to the control culture. This was particularly evident under mild stress conditions and not under relatively severe stress conditions, which were characterized by a high decrease in sialylation. These results suggest that inhibiting autophagy in rCHO cell culture decreases sialylation of Fc-fusion glycoprotein by constraining the availability of intracellular nucleotide sugars.

Key points

•  The autophagy inhibition in rCHO cell culture leads to a significant reduction in the sialylation of Fc-fusion glycoprotein.

•  The pool of five intracellular nucleotide sugars remained highly abundant in cells treated with autophagy inhibitors.

•  Supplementation of nucleotide sugar precursors effectively restores decreased sialylation, particularly under mild stress conditions but not in relatively severe stress conditions.

Graphical Abstract
Myeloid sarcoma with RBM15::MRTFA (MKL1) mimicking vascular neoplasm
Authors: Gündoğdu Fatma , Agaimy Abbas , Aytaç Selin , Hazar Volkan , Üner Ayşegül , Kösemehmetoğlu Kemal
Published: February 2024

Extramedullary involvement of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), aka myeloid sarcoma, is a rare phenomenon in acute megakaryoblastic leukemia with RBM15:: MRTFA(MKL1) fusion, which might mimic non-hematologic malignancies. A 7-month-old infant presented with leukocytosis, hepatosplenomegaly, multiple lymphadenopathies, and a solid mass in the right thigh. Initially, the patient was diagnosed with a malignant vascular tumor regarding the expression of vascular markers from the biopsy of the right thigh lesion that was performed after the inconclusive bone marrow biopsy. The second bone marrow biopsy, which was performed due to the partial response to sarcoma treatment, showed hypercellular bone marrow with CD34 and CD61-positive spindle cell infiltration and > 20% basophilic blasts with cytoplasmic blebs. RNA sequencing of soft tissue biopsy revealed the presence of RBM15::MRTFA(MKL1) fusion. Based on these findings, myeloid sarcoma/AML with RBM15::MRTFA(MKL1) fusion diagnosis was made. AML with RBM15::MRTFA(MKL1) fusion can initially present as extramedullary lesions and might cause misdiagnosis of non-hematologic malignancies.
Readmission after enhanced recovery video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery wedge resection
Authors: Huang Lin , Kehlet Henrik , Petersen René Horsleben
Published: February 2024

Background

Despite the implementation of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) programs, surgical stress continues to influence postoperative rehabilitation, including the period after discharge. However, there is a lack of data available beyond the point of discharge following video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) wedge resection. Therefore, the objective of this study is to investigate incidence and risk factors for readmissions after ERAS VATS wedge resection.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed on data from prospectively collected consecutive VATS wedge resections from June 2019 to June 2022. We evaluated main reasons related to wedge resection leading to 90-day readmission, early (occurring within 0–30 days postoperatively) and late readmission (occurring within 31–90 days postoperatively). To identify predictors for these readmissions, we utilized a logistic regression model for both univariable and multivariable analyses.

Results

A total of 850 patients (non-small cell lung cancer 21.5%, metastasis 44.7%, benign 31.9%, and other lung cancers 1.9%) were included for the final analysis. Median length of stay was 1 day (IQR 1–2). During the postoperative 90 days, 86 patients (10.1%) were readmitted mostly due to pneumonia and pneumothorax. Among the cohort, 66 patients (7.8%) had early readmissions primarily due to pneumothorax and pneumonia, while 27 patients (3.2%) experienced late readmissions mainly due to pneumonia, with 7 (0.8%) patients experiencing both early and late readmissions. Multivariable analysis demonstrated that male gender, pulmonary complications, and neurological complications were associated with readmission.

Conclusions

Readmission after VATS wedge resection remains significant despite an optimal ERAS program, with pneumonia and pneumothorax as the dominant reasons. Early readmission was primarily associated with pneumothorax and pneumonia, while late readmission correlated mainly with pneumonia.
Machine learning for human emotion recognition: a comprehensive review
Authors: Younis Eman M. G. , Mohsen Someya , Houssein Essam H. , Ibrahim Osman Ali Sadek
Published: February 2024

Emotion is an interdisciplinary research field investigated by many research areas such as psychology, philosophy, computing, and others. Emotions influence how we make decisions, plan, reason, and deal with various aspects. Automated human emotion recognition (AHER) is a critical research topic in Computer Science. It can be applied in many applications such as marketing, human–robot interaction, electronic games, E-learning, and many more. It is essential for any application requiring to know the emotional state of the person and act accordingly. The automated methods for recognizing emotions use many modalities such as facial expressions, written text, speech, and various biosignals such as the electroencephalograph, blood volume pulse, electrocardiogram, and others to recognize emotions. The signals can be used individually(uni-modal) or as a combination of more than one modality (multi-modal). Most of the work presented is in laboratory experiments and personalized models. Recent research is concerned about in the wild experiments and creating generic models. This study presents a comprehensive review and an evaluation of the state-of-the-art methods for AHER employing machine learning from a computer science perspective and directions for future research work.
Photodynamic bone stabilization for traumatic and pathologic fractures: a systematic review of utilization, complications, and patient-reported outcomes
Authors: Zhu Kevin Y. , McNassor Ryan , Hecht II Christian J. , Burkhart Robert J. , Nystrom Lukas M. , Kamath Atul F.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The photodynamic bone stabilization system (PBSS) was was developed in 2010, and in 2018 gained FDA approval in the United States. Given its relative novelty, our analysis sought to analyze the available literature exploring the indications, outcomes, and complications of the PBSS.

Methods

We performed a systematic review (PROSPERO registration of study protocol: CRD42022363065, October 8th, 2022). PubMed, EBSCOHost, and Google Scholar electronic databases were queried to identify articles evaluating PBSS in the treatment of pathologic or traumatic fractures between January 1 2010 and 15 October 2022. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Methodological Index for Nonrandomized Studies tool.

Results

Our initial search yielded 326 publications, which were then screened for appropriate studies that aligned with the purpose of our review. A total of thirteen studies, comprising seven case series, four case reports, and two cohort studies. The total sample size of the included studies consisted of 345 patients, with 242 females (70%) and 103 males (30%). The implants were most commonly utilized in the humerus (41%), radius (12%), and metacarpal (12%). The most common complications were related to broken implants (5%) and dislocation (1%). Most studies reported complete fracture healing and return of full strength and range of motion.

Conclusion

Despite being a relatively novel technology, PBSS appears to be a viable option for fracture stabilization. Most studies included in our analysis reported complete fracture healing and return of function with minimal complications.
Pediatric osteochondral fractures: clinical insights associate early diagnosis to early rehabilitation via arthroscopy
Authors: Pechlivanidou Evmorfia , Zambakides Christos , Margariti Rodanthi E.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This retrospective observational cohort analysis aims to address diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in managing osteochondral fractures (OCFs) resulting from acute patella dislocation and ankle sprains in children.

Methods

The study includes 15 children treated for OCFs between January 2020 and July 2022. Data were obtained from medical records and analyzed using logistic regression.

Results

The diagnostic and treatment algorithm involves detailed history, clinical examination, and imaging, with MRI guiding therapeutic decisions. Arthroscopic or mini open fixation led to successful rehabilitation, with 93% achieving full mobility at 9 months. Age was identified as a slight risk factor for free fragments in MRI, and arthroscopic management correlated with faster recovery at 3 months.

Conclusion

This study underscores the importance of immediate diagnosis and minimally invasive intervention for OCFs in children. Timely treatment, guided by a diagnostic algorithm, facilitates joint restoration and prevents degenerative consequences, ensuring a return to regular activities within a year postoperatively.

Level of Evidence

IV
Combining X-ray micro-CT and microscopy-based images of two lianas species to derive structural, mechanical and functional relationships
Authors: Karlen Claudine , Turberg Pascal , Buttler Alexandre , Martin Océane , Schweingruber Fritz , Vassilopoulos Anastasios P.
Published: February 2024

This paper presents a biomechanical study of stems of two liana species, Clematis vitalba and Vitis vinifera, investigates the mechanical performance of these two liana species and attempts to enhance the understanding of structure–function relationships. The investigation involved mechanical testing of whole plant stems, supplemented by X-ray micro-CT (X-ray computed tomography at micron voxel size) imaging and 2D microscopic images of stained cross sections of the plant stems, to derive structure–function relationships with potential for application in bioinspired composite materials. The micro-CT images were compared to the microscopic images of stained cross sections, in order to show benefits and potential drawbacks of the X-ray micro-CT method with respect to traditional methods. The high-resolution 3D imaging capacity of micro-CT is exploited to explain the structural functionality derived from the mechanical testing. A simple finite element model is developed based on the plant topology derived by the micro-CT images and proved accurate enough to model the plant’s mechanical behaviour and assess the influence of their structural differences. The two plants exhibit different to each other physical and mechanical properties (density, strength and stiffness) due to their common growth form. Anatomical cross-sectional observation and X-ray micro-CT provide complementary information. The first method allows the identification of the lignified parts, supposedly more resistant mechanically, of these structures, while the second one provides a full 3D model of the structure, admittedly less detailed but providing the spatial distribution of density contrasts supposed to be important in the mechanical properties of the plant. The proposed methodological approach opens new perspectives to better understand the mechanical behaviour of the complex structure of plants and to draw inspiration from it in structural engineering.
Role of zonisamide in advanced Parkinson’s disease: a randomized placebo-controlled study
Authors: Essam Mohamed , Hamid Eman , Abushady Eman , El-Balkimy Mahmoud , Antonini Angelo , Shalash Ali
Published: February 2024

Background

Zonisamide (ZNS) has shown some efficacy in motor symptoms of PD; however, more evidence is lacking, and its effects on nonmotor symptoms (NMSs) and quality of life (QoL) remain to be investigated. This randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled crossover study investigated the effect of ZNS on motor and NMS symptoms and QoL in advanced PD.

Methods

PD patients with Hoehn and Yahr stage ≥ 2 (“On” state) and at least 2 h off time daily were randomized to groups: ZNS 25 mg, ZNS 50 mg and placebo. Groups were assessed at baseline and at the 1- and 3-month follow-ups. The primary endpoint was the change in the total MDS-UPDRS III “On”, while the secondary endpoint was the change in the total and parts I and IV MDS-UPDRS, Nonmotor Symptoms Scale and Parkinson’s disease questionnaire-39 at the final assessment.

Results

Sixty-nine patients were assessed for efficacy at the 1-month follow-up, and 58 patients were assessed at the 3-month follow-up. The primary endpoint showed significant improvement in the ZNS 25 mg group compared to the placebo group (p = 0.009). At the final assessment, the ZNS 25 mg group showed significant improvement of total and part VI MDS-UPDRS, bradykinesia, tremor and functional impact of fluctuations compared to placebo. There was no change in dyskinesia, NMSs, QoL or side effects except for sedation.

Conclusion

ZNS has a favourable effect on motor symptoms in patients with wearing off as adjunctive therapy with other dopaminergic drugs, with no exacerbation of dyskinesia and a limited impact on NMSs and QoL.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT04182399, in 24/11/2019.
Statistics anxiety or statistics fear? A reinforcement sensitivity theory perspective on psychology students’ statistics anxiety, attitudes, and self-efficacy
Authors: Mendes Renata A. , Loxton Natalie J. , Stuart Jaimee , O’Donnell Alexander W. , Stainer Matthew J.
Published: February 2024

This research investigates the role of reinforcement sensitivity theory (RST) in statistics education among two distinct samples of undergraduate psychology students. In Study 1, 318 students in a third-year statistics course completed self-report measures of RST, anxiety, attitudes, and self-efficacy concerning the study of statistics. In Study 2, 577 students from first-, second-, and third-year statistics courses participated. Controlling for age and gender, both studies found students who were high in goal-drive persistence reported lower statistics anxiety, higher statistics self-efficacy and more favourable attitudes toward learning statistics, while students who were high in the tendency to avoid threat reported higher statistics anxiety. Those with a more sensitive behavioural inhibition system reported greater statistics anxiety and less favourable attitudes, in Study 2 but not Study 1. Results indicate that RST dimensions account for as much as 23% of additional variance in statistics anxiety, 18% in statistics self-efficacy, and 11% in attitudes, after controlling for age and gender. These studies highlight the utility of RST dimensions, notably goal-drive persistence, threat sensitivity, and behavioural inhibition, in providing critical information as to personality differences among students that need to be considered when developing programs targeting statistics anxiety, attitudes, and self-efficacy.
Seltene und komplexe Epilepsien – Herausforderungen in Diagnostik und Therapie
Authors: Brandt Christian , Bien Christian G. , Kohnen Oona , Krey Ilona , Ramantani Georgia , Renzel Roland , Wolff Markus , Imbach Lukas L.
Published: February 2024

Epilepsie ist mit einer Prävalenz von ca. 0,7 % eine häufige Erkrankung. Gleichzeitig kann sie durch eine Vielzahl von Ursachen bedingt bzw. von einer großen Zahl von Komorbiditäten begleitet sein. Viele dieser Ursachen und Komorbiditäten erfüllen wiederum die Definition einer seltenen Erkrankung. Eine solche liegt vor, wenn weniger als einer unter 2000 Menschen an dieser Erkrankung leidet. Dies trifft für die entwicklungsbedingten und epileptischen Enzephalopathien („developmental and epileptic encephalopathies“ [DEEs]) zu. Bei diesen trägt die zugrunde liegende Ätiologie zur Entstehung einer Epilepsie wie auch einer Entwicklungsstörung bei. Die Prävalenz von Epilepsie unter Menschen mit Intelligenzminderung ist hoch. Unter Berücksichtigung dieser Ausführungen ergibt sich eine Schnittmenge von Epilepsie, seltenen Erkrankungen, DEEs und Intelligenzminderung. Je nach Blickwinkel ergeben sich andere Aspekte. Menschen mit Intelligenzminderung haben besondere Bedürfnisse, DEEs erfordern eine genetische Diagnostik und sind so ggf. einer spezifischen Behandlung zugänglich, und der Begriff der seltenen Erkrankungen hat zusätzliche Implikationen im Sinne politischer Unterstützung und Forschungsförderung. Diesen Themen – also seltene Erkrankungen, DEEs und Intelligenzminderung im Kontext der Epilepsien – war ein Workshop am Schweizerischen Epilepsie-Zentrum (Klinik Lengg), Zürich, im Frühjahr 2023 gewidmet. Diese Übersicht gibt den Inhalt der Vorträge wieder, die bei dieser Gelegenheit gehalten wurden.
Characterizing Inverse Sequences For Which Their Inverse Limits Are Homeomorphic
Authors: Črepnjak M. , Sovič T.
Published: February 2024

In [11], Mioduszewski characterized inverse sequences of polyhedra
for which their inverse limits are homeomorphic. In this article, we obtain a
more general characterization: we characterize inverse sequences of arbitrary compact
metric spaces and continuous single-valued functions for which their inverse
limits are homeomorphic. In our approach, set-valued functions are used instead
of continuous single-valued functions in almost commutative diagrams. Using
this characterization we give an alternative proof that the Brouwer-Janiszewski-Knaster continuum and the pseudo-arc are circle-like continua.
Reasoning Around Wealth Decumulation Choices for Adults Aged 50 Years and Older: The Role of Family Values
Authors: CHEN Ke , LOU Vivian Wei Qun
Published: February 2024

Studies have shown that older people do not dissave and that they dissave slower than theoretically predicted. They also rarely use wealth decumulation products like annuities and reverse mortgages, despite the longevity insurance these provide. Most extant explanations characterized financial decumulation choices as rational, independent, and egocentric, overlooking the socioeconomic context and cultural values. The Confucian cultural heritage concerning family values may provide an alternative explanation and enrich the understanding of this phenomenon. Consequently, we explored how adults aged 50 years and older in Hong Kong reason about their financial decumulation choices, specifically with respect to four financial decumulation products: annuities, reverse mortgages, joint accounts, and wills. Focus groups and semi-structured interviews were used to collect data in this participatory qualitative study, conducted in partnership with older adults and law students. Sixty community-dwelling residents in Hong Kong ages 50–70 years participated in the study. The results show that wealth decumulation is largely influenced by relational and family values and is complicated by intersecting political, social, and cultural circumstances. The Confucianism-based, collectivist familism and filial piety underpinning Hong Kong society incline adults to adopt an attitude of self-restrain when making financial decumulation choices. Family morality values must be considered in the development of retirement products and retirement protection policies in contemporary Chinese society.
Empowered or impoverished: the impact of panic buttons on domestic violence
Authors: Tumen Semih , Ulucan Hakan
Published: February 2024

This paper estimates the causal effect of a targeted panic button program—implemented in two Turkish provinces between 2012 and 2016—on domestic violence. Difference-in-differences and synthetic control estimates suggest that the program notably increased physical violence against women both at the extensive and intensive margins. The likelihood of physical violence in the treated provinces increased by more than 5 percentage points relative to the control provinces, and the number of physical violence incidents increased by about 10 percent. The increase comes almost entirely from the increase in violence against less-educated women. Employment rates and economic independence indicators improved for women in the treated provinces, which suggests that the program empowered vulnerable women. However, male partners increased physical violence in response to female empowerment. The results are consistent with the male backlash theories and a class of non-cooperative models incorporating violence as a vehicle for enhancing males’ bargaining power, but inconsistent with the models predicting that economic empowerment of women reduces violence by balancing bargaining power within the household. We also develop a method based on retrospective violence information to understand whether the increase is attributable to actual or self-reported violence and conclude that the estimates are entirely driven by the increase in actual violence.
Mixotrophic and heterotrophic growth of microalgae using acetate from different production processes
Authors: Proietti Tocca Giacomo , Agostino Valeria , Menin Barbara , Tommasi Tonia , Fino Debora , Di Caprio Fabrizio
Published: February 2024

The high metabolic flexibility and biodiversity of microalgae make them promising systems for the production of chemicals and high-value metabolites to be utilized in various industrial applications. Currently, microalgae are primarily cultivated in phototrophic processes or in fermenters using glucose as substrate. However, such configurations are often too costly for the majority of potential applications and require improvements. The use of acetate as substrate to enhance biomass productivity and reduce cost and environmental impacts is a promising solution. In a future bio-based economy, acetate can serve as an excellent intermediate to link many industrial facilities, as it can be synthesized using different technologies from renewable resources as CO2 and waste. This work provides a detailed description of acetate synthesis processes alternative to the conventional methanol carbonylation, including the pros and cons of each: aerobic and anaerobic fermentations; thermochemical treatments; C1 gas fermentation; microbial electrosynthesis and artificial photosynthesis. Additionally, the utilization of acetate as substrate for microalgae growth in mixotrophic and heterotrophic conditions is reviewed, covering key metabolic and engineering aspects (strains, yields, growth rate, inhibition, productivity, process configuration). These aspects serve as guidelines for a rationale design of an algal cultivation process based on acetate as a carbon source. Finally, the review critically assesses the state of the art of coupling of acetate-rich streams with algal biomass production, highlighting the pros and cons and addressing the main knowledge gaps to be filled through future research.
Deep learning and predictive modelling for generating normalised muscle function parameters from signal images of mandibular electromyography
Authors: Farook Taseef Hasan , Haq Tashreque Mohammed , Ramees Lameesa , Dudley James
Published: February 2024

Challenges arise in accessing archived signal outputs due to proprietary software limitations. There is a notable lack of exploration in open-source mandibular EMG signal conversion for continuous access and analysis, hindering tasks such as pattern recognition and predictive modelling for temporomandibular joint complex function. To Develop a workflow to extract normalised signal parameters from images of mandibular muscle EMG and identify optimal clustering methods for quantifying signal intensity and activity durations. A workflow utilising OpenCV, variational encoders and Neurokit2 generated and augmented 866 unique EMG signals from jaw movement exercises. k-means, GMM and DBSCAN were employed for normalisation and cluster-centric signal processing. The workflow was validated with data collected from 66 participants, measuring temporalis, masseter and digastric muscles. DBSCAN (0.35 to 0.54) and GMM (0.09 to 0.24) exhibited lower silhouette scores for mouth opening, anterior protrusion and lateral excursions, while K-means performed best (0.10 to 0.11) for temporalis and masseter muscles during chewing activities. The current study successfully developed a deep learning workflow capable of extracting normalised signal data from EMG images and generating quantifiable parameters for muscle activity duration and general functional intensity.

Graphical Abstract
Mid-term results (4–8 years) with the stemless Simpliciti shoulder system
Authors: Barth Benjamin , Schmalzl Jonas , List Kilian , Böhm Dorota , Böhm Dirk
Published: February 2024

Background

The stemless Simpliciti shoulder prosthesis has been available since 2010. To date, there are no scientific results on this type of prosthesis with a follow-up of more than 24–35 months. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the clinical and radiological results of the Simpliciti shoulder system in a mid-term follow-up of 4–8 years.

Material and methods

Between April 2011 and December 2014, the Simpliciti shoulder system was implanted in 110 shoulders in 93 patients. After a mean follow-up of 72 (49–106) months, 98 shoulders (89.1%) in 93 patients with an average age of 72.7 years were available for clinical and radiological follow-up. There were 10 hemi-shoulder arthroplasties (HSA) and 88 total shoulder arthroplasties (TSA). Clinical examination, ultrasound of the rotator cuff, Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), Quick-DASH (QDASH), Constant score (CS), range of motion, and radiographs were evaluated.

Results

All shoulders showed good clinical results. The mean SSV was 86% (HSA 79%, TSA 87%). The mean QDASH was 12 points (HSA 22, TSA 10). The mean CS improved from 32.2 to 75.4 ± 10.9 points (p < 0.005; HSA 70.4, TSA 76.0). The average age-adjusted CS was 89.7% ± 12.4% (HSA 82.1%, TSA 90.7%). The mean flexion was 141.4°, the mean abduction was 124.5°, and the mean external rotation was 47.2°. A pain reduction from 3.7 to 13.3 points in CS was achieved. Good anatomical reconstruction of the center of rotation and radius of curvature was evaluated in the postoperative radiographs. Bone resorption in unloaded bone of the humeral head was frequent but without any clinical impact.

Conclusion

The stemless Simpliciti shoulder prosthesis demonstrated very good clinical and radiological mid-term results, comparable to stemmed prostheses. Further follow-up is needed to determine the long-term results.
Smoking Is Correlated to Internal Hernia After Gastric Bypass Surgery: a Post hoc Analysis of Data from a Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Bossen Marlene F. , Gormsen Johanne , Kristensen Sara D. , Helgstrand Frederik
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Internal herniation is a well-known complication of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (L-RYGB). The aim of this study was to evaluate smoking as an independent risk factor for internal herniation after L-RYGB.

Materials and Methods

This study was performed as an exploratory post hoc analysis of data from a previous published randomized controlled trial (RCT) designed to compare closure and non-closure of mesenteric defects in patients undergoing L-RYGB. The primary outcome of this study was to assess the significance of smoking as a risk factor for internal herniation after L-RYGB. Secondary outcome was early postoperative complications defined as Clavien-Dindo grade ≥ 2.

Results

Four hundred one patients were available for post hoc analysis. The risk of internal herniation was significantly higher among patients who were smoking preoperatively (hazard ratio (HR) 2.4, 95% confidence interval (c.i.) 1.3 to 4.5; p = 0.005). This result persisted after adjusting for other patient characteristics (HR 2.2, 1.2 to 4.2; p = 0.016). 6.0% of the patients had postoperative complications within the first 30 days. 4.9% of these patients were smoking and 6.3% were not smoking, p = 0.657. 11.0% of the patients underwent surgery due to internal herniation by 5 years after the primary procedure.

Conclusion

Smoking is a significant risk factor for internal herniation but did not increase risk for 30 days postoperative complications.

Graphical Abstract
A case series of successfully managing exomphalos major with awake graduated compression dressing and early enteral feeding
Authors: Widatella Hussam , Abd Elwahab Sami , Penny Zakya , Paran Sri Thambipillai
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Exomphalos anomaly is defined as the herniation of abdominal viscera into the base of the umbilical cord, with only a membranous sac covering these contents. It has an incidence of approximately 1 in 4000–6000 births. Management of exomphalos major (EM) remains controversial and limited, with very few studies to guide decision-making.

Method

This is a case series of four neonates with EM treated at a tertiary paediatric referral centre between 2018 and 2021 with a gradual compression dressing technique.

Results

Four neonates were diagnosed with EM. The average gestational age was 38 + 5 (range 38 + 2 – 39 + 2), and the average birth weight was 3.1 kg (range 2.56 – 3.49 kg). The defect size ranged between 5 and 7 cm. All patients were commenced on gradual compression dressing between days 1 and 3 of life. Dressings were applied at the bedside in the general neonatal ward. The average time taken to reach full feeds was 1 week; only one patient required parenteral nutrition. Three underwent surgical repair at two and 16 weeks of age; one had delayed repair at the age of 1 year because of the COVID-19 pandemic. None required patch repair. None required prolonged ventilation after repair.

Conclusion

This case series describes a successful compression dressing technique that reduces sac content without the need for general anaesthetic or respiratory compromise, whereby simultaneous enteral feeding is tolerated.
Nose to brain delivery of mirtazapine via lipid nanocapsules: Preparation, statistical optimization, radiolabeling, in vivo biodistribution and pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Ibrahim Mennatullah M. , Basalious Emad B. , El-Nabarawi Mohamed A. , Makhlouf Amal IA. , Sayyed Marwa Eid , Ibrahim Ismail Taha
Published: February 2024

Mirtazapine (MZPc) is an antidepressant drug which is approved by the FDA. It has low bioavailability, which is only 50%, in spite of its rapid absorption when orally administered owing to high first-pass metabolism. This study was oriented towards delivering intranasal (IN) mirtazapine by a direct route to the brain by means of preparing lipid nanocapsules (LNCs) as a targeted drug delivery system. MZP-LNCs were constructed by solvent-free phase inversion temperature technique applying D-Optimal mixture design to study the impact of 3 formulation variables on the characterization of the formulated nanocapsules. Independent variables were percentage of Labrafac oil, percentage of Solutol and percentage of water. Dependent variables were particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), Zeta potential and solubilization capacity. Nanocapsules of the optimized formula loaded with MZP were of spherical shape as confirmed by transmission electron microscopy with particle diameter of 20.59 nm, zeta potential of − 5.71, PDI of 0.223 and solubilization capacity of 7.21 mg/g. The in vivo pharmacokinetic behavior of intranasal MZP-LNCs in brain and blood was correlated to MZP solution after intravenous (IV) and intranasal administration in mice. In vivo biodistribution of the drug in mice was assessed by a radiolabeling technique using radioiodinated mirtazapine (131I-MZP). Results showed that intranasal MZP-LNCs were able to deliver higher amount of MZP to the brain with less drug levels in blood when compared to the MZP solution after IV and IN administration. Moreover, the percentage of drug targeting efficiency (%DTE) of the optimized MZP-LNCs was 332.2 which indicated more effective brain targeting by the intranasal route. It also had a direct transport percentage (%DTP) of 90.68 that revealed a paramount contribution of the nose to brain pathway in the drug delivery to the brain.

Graphical Abstract
Efficacy and safety of short-term intravesical gemcitabine vs. long-term intravesical epirubicin in the treatment of moderate to high-risk non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer: a pilot study
Authors: Chen Feiran , Du Jun , Chen Xusheng , Yang Qing , Diao Lei , Yao Xin
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Long-term bladder instillation therapy will bring more infusion side effects and economic consumption to patients. This study aims to compare short-term gemcitabine vs. long-term epirubicin for intravesical chemotherapy in patients diagnosed with moderate- to high-risk NMIBC treated using transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT).

Materials and methods

This randomized controlled trial enrolled patients diagnosed with pT1 bladder cancer who underwent TURBT at Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute from (01/2015- 07/2018), randomized 1:1 to gemcitabine vs. epirubicin. Recurrence-free survival (RFS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were monitored by cystoscopy. Side-effects after intravesical instillation and QLQ-C30 questionnaire were collected.

Results

Finally, 208 patients were enrolled. The median follow-up was 50.6 (6–69) months. The median RFS of the gemcitabine vs. epirubicin groups were 46.7 (6–69) vs. 47.2 (8–69) months, respectively (P > 0.05); the median PFS was 51.3 (9–69) vs. 50.9 (27–69) months, respectively (P > 0.05). The incidence rates of lower urinary tract symptoms, dysuria, hypo gastralgia, and gastrointestinal symptoms in the epirubicin group were 33.3%, 6.7%, 17.7%, and 18.3%, compared with 8.5%, 3.4%, 8.5% and, 1.2%, respectively, for gemcitabine. The gemcitabine group had a better quality of life than epirubicin in global health status (82.8 ± 8.5 vs. 79.6 ± 4.2, P = 0.01) and pain symptom domain (1.1 ± 2.8 vs. 2.4 ± 3.8, P = 0.04).

Conclusions

There are no significant differences in efficacy between gemcitabine and epirubicin for intravesical chemotherapy in patients with moderate to high-risk NMIBC to prevent tumor recurrence or progression for patients intolerant to BCG or those for whom BCG is not accessible. Patients with gemcitabine suffer fewer adverse events and have a better health status than with epirubicin.
PM2.5-bound polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs): quantification and source prediction studies in the ambient air of automobile workshop using the molecular diagnostic ratio
Authors: Onaiwu Gregory E. , Ifijen Ikhazuagbe H.
Published: February 2024

The presence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the atmosphere has been linked to health concerns, including cancer. Automobile workshops are significant contributors to PAH emissions due to their operations. Hence, this investigation aimed to identify and quantify the sources of PM2.5-bound PAHs in the ambient air of automobile workshops in Benin City, Nigeria, using molecular diagnostic ratios. PM2.5 samples were collected from 60 automobiles over 1 year, during the rainy (April to November) and dry (December to March) seasons of 2019. Sample collection utilized a low-volume air sampler with quartz filter paper, and extraction was performed using a 1:1 mixture of acetone and dichloromethane. The analysis involved an HP Agilent Technology 6890 Gas Chromatography (GC) system with a flame ionization detector. The annual average concentrations of PM2.5-bound PAHs in Benin City were 269.87 ± 249.32 ng/m3 (dry season) and 216.30 ± 204.89 ng/m3 (wet season). Molecular diagnostic ratios, such as Fl/(Fl + Py), An/(An + Phe), BaP/(BaP + Chry), BbF/BkF, InP/(InP + BghiP), and BaA/(BaA + Chr), aided in identifying PAH sources. Gasoline combustion, diesel combustion, traffic emissions, and emissions from automobile panel welders were found to be the primary sources of PAHs near vehicle workshops. These findings provide crucial insights for developing effective strategies to reduce emissions and protect public health in the air surrounding automobile workshops in Benin City.