bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early colorectal cancer diagnosis: A novel methylated stool DNA model enhanced the diagnostic efficiency
Authors: Yun Peng , Kulaixijiang Kamila , Pan Jiang , Yang Luping , Wang Nengzhuang , Xu Zheng , Zhang Yaodong , Cai Haifang , Zhao Zi‐Ye , Zhu Min , Yan Hongli
Published: November 2024

Background

Methylated stool DNA (sDNA) is a reliable noninvasive biomarker for early colorectal cancer (CRC) diagnosis. However, there are barely any diagnostic panels that can achieve both a sensitivity and specificity exceeding 90% simultaneously.

Objective

We aimed to identify a novel methylated sDNA panel and model for the early diagnosis of CRC.

Methods

We conducted methyl‐CpG binding domain isolated genome sequencing (MiGS) on CpG island methylation phenotype (CIMP)‐positive (n = 3) and CIMP‐negative CRC tissues (n = 3) and their corresponding normal adjacent tissues. Subsequently, by utilizing both the aforementioned data and public datasets, we identified a set of promising methylated sDNA markers for CRC. Next, we validated 5 of these genes using pyrosequencing in CRC patients (n = 31). Then, we developed a combined diagnostic model (CDM) for CRC based on the methylation status of PRDM12, FOXE1, and SDC2 by a Training cohort (n = 231). Finally, the performance of CDM was evaluated in an independent multicenter Validation cohort (n = 800).

Results

A total of 1062 participants were included in this study. The area under the curve (AUC) of the CDM was 0.979 (95% CI: 0.960–0.997), and the optimal sensitivity and specificity were 97.35% and 99.05%, respectively, in the training cohort (n = 231). In the independent validation cohort (n = 800), the AUC was 0.950 (95% CI: 0.927–0.973), along with the optimal sensitivity of 92.75% and specificity of 97.21%. When CRC and advanced adenoma (AAD) were used as diagnostic targets, the model AUC was 0.945 (95% CI: 0.922–0.969), with an optimal sensitivity of 91.89% and a specificity of 95.21%. The model sensitivity for nonadvanced adenoma patients was 68.66%.

Conclusion

The sDNA diagnostic model CDM, developed from both CIMP‐P and CIMP‐N, exhibited exceptional performance in CRC and could serve as a potential alternative strategy for CRC screening.
The Poor and Deservingness for Political and Social Citizenship: “Universal suffrage” in Finland Since 1906
Authors: Harjula Minna
Published: November 2024

Although universal suffrage was implemented in Finland in national elections (1906) and in local elections (1917), poor relief recipients were, among eight other groups, excluded from voting rights. By focusing on poor relief, the chapter analyses how exclusion criteria were connected to the economic ideals of a citizen. Regular poor relief was an obstacle for voting until the 1940s and those poor relief recipients who were under the guardianship of the local board of public welfare were excluded until 1970. Moreover, voting practices were exclusive, as poor relief institutions were not accepted as polling stations until the late 1960s. By using deservingness as an analytic concept, Harjula indicates how the strict reciprocity, which defined a vote as a reward for fulfilled responsibilities—indicating independence and contribution—, was replaced by the idea of equality-based individual rights. As two societal layers of experience, these competing views resulted in complex and hierarchical lived citizenship of the poor. The combination of electoral legislation, social welfare legislation, and civil legislation intertwined civil, social, and political rights and created differing notions of belonging at the local and national levels.
Expanding the Electorate in Habsburg Austria, 1860s–1918: (Dis)Integrations of Economic and Educational Qualifications, Gender, and “Universal” Suffrage
Authors: Bader-Zaar Birgitta
Published: November 2024

When constitutional reform commenced in the early 1860s in the Habsburg Monarchy, economic independence and higher education were the fundamental pillars upon which enfranchisement was built. The vote was not considered to be an individual right. Rather, elections should ensure that certain interests, based especially on property and wealth as well as learning, found adequate representation. Social change and political crises led to various electoral reforms early on. These included the introduction in Habsburg Austria of so-called universal suffrage for men over twenty-four, however, at the same time leaving economic qualifications in effect within a system of unequal representation. At the level of the Habsburg Austrian parliament electoral reform finally consented to equal representation of voters in 1907. Despite the principle of “universal” suffrage, however, it continued to exclude recipients of public poor relief, among others. This chapter will outline the complex developments of voting qualifications both on the parliamentary level and for crownland diets and local government bodies, highlighting integrations and disintegrations of economic and educational qualifications. It will also focus specifically on women voters in Habsburg Austria and discuss in which way their inclusion was specifically based on economic factors, rather than educational qualifications.
New insights into the immunomodulatory potential of sialic acid on monocyte-derived dendritic cells
Authors: Silva Zélia , Rabaça João Amorim , Luz Vanessa , Lourenço Rita Adubeiro , Salio Mariolina , Oliveira Alexandra Couto , Bule Pedro , Springer Sebastian , Videira Paula Alexandra
Published: November 2024

Sialic acids at the cell surface of dendritic cells (DCs) play an important immunomodulatory role, and their manipulation enhances DC maturation, leading to heightened T cell activation. Particularly, at the molecular level, the increased stability of surface MHC-I molecules in monocyte-derived DCs (MoDCs) underpins an improved DC: T cell interaction. In this study, we focused on the impact of sialic acid remodelling by treatment with Clostridium perfringens sialidase on MoDCs' phenotypic and functional characteristics. Our investigation juxtaposes this novel approach with the conventional cytokine-based maturation regimen commonly employed in clinical settings.

Notably, C. perfringens sialidase remarkably increased MHC-I levels compared to other sialidases having different specificities, supporting the idea that higher MHC-I is due to the cleavage of specific sialoglycans on cell surface proteins. Sialidase treatment induced rapid elevated surface expression of MHC-I, MHC-II and CD40 within an hour, a response not fully replicated by 48 h cytokine cocktail treatment. These increases were also observable 48 h post sialidase treatment. While CD86 and PD-L1 showed significant increases after 48 h of cytokine maturation, 48 h post sialidase treatment showed a higher increase in CD86 and shorter increase in PD-L1. CCR-7 expression was significantly increased 48 h after sialidase treatment but not significantly affected by cytokine maturation. Both treatments promoted higher secretion of the IL-12 cytokine. However, the cytokine cocktail induced a more pronounced IL-12 production. SNA lectin staining analysis demonstrated that the sialic acid profile is significantly altered by sialidase treatment, but not by the cytokine cocktail, which causes only slight sialic acid upregulation. Notably, the lipid-presenting molecules CD1a, CD1b and CD1c remained unaffected by sialidase treatment in MoDCs, a finding also further supported by experiments performed on C1R cells. Inhibition of endogenous sialidases Neu1 and Neu3 during MoDC differentiation did not affect surface MHC-I expression and cytokine secretion. Yet, sialidase activity in MoDCs was minimal, suggesting that sialidase inhibition does not significantly alter MHC-I-related functions. Our study highlights the unique maturation profile induced by sialic acid manipulation in MoDCs. These findings provide insights into the potential of sialic acid manipulation as a rapid immunomodulatory strategy, offering promising avenues for targeted interventions in inflammatory contexts.
Polymer electrolytes based on PEO and lithium tetraalkoxyborate salts with ionic liquid properties for lithium-based batteries
Authors: Czerwiński Arkadiusz , Słojewska Magdalena , Monikowska Dorota , Pawlak Anita , Chodara Agnieszka , Zygadło-Monikowska Ewa
Published: November 2024

The development of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) with improved safety features is crucial due to the inherent risks associated with liquid electrolytes, such as fires, explosions, and leakage. This study explores the potential of solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) based on poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and lithium tetraalkoxyborate salts (LiTAB) with ionic liquid properties as a safer alternative. Ionic liquids (ILs) are examined for their high ionic conductivity, wide electrochemical window, and excellent thermal stability, despite their high synthesis costs and viscosity challenges. The study proposes the use of a novel LiTAB salt with an oligomeric star-shaped anion structure that reduces mobility, enhancing lithium ion transference numbers. This IL serves as both a lithium salt and an active plasticizer in PEO-based SPEs, offering potential for 3D printing applications. Experimental results demonstrate that these electrolytes exhibit favorable rheological properties, high ionic conductivities, and significant lithium ion transference numbers, addressing the key limitations of conventional PEO-based electrolytes. The findings suggest that incorporating these LiTAB salts in SPEs could significantly enhance the safety and performance of LIBs, particularly for applications in miniaturized consumer electronics and electronic implants.
Outcomes after robot-assisted radical cystectomy with orthotopic neobladder in women
Authors: Rautiola Juhana , Martini Alberto , Mertens Laura S , Skokic Viktor , Di Gianfrancesco Luca , Bravi Carlo Andrea , Heinzelbecker Julia , Mendrek Mikolaj , Buse Stephan , Ploussard Guillaume , John Hubert , Canda Abdullah Erdem , Balbay Mevlana Derya , Edeling Sebastian , Van Praet Charles , Leyh-Bannurah Sami-Ramzi , Mottrie Alexander , D’Hondt Frederiek , van der Poel Hendrik , Berquin Camille , Dacaestecker Karel , Gaston Richard , Wiklund Peter , Hosseini Abolfazl
Published: November 2024

Purpose

To investigate functional, oncological and complication outcomes in women undergoing robot-assisted cystectomy (RARC) with intracorporeal orthotopic neobladder.

Methods

From a multi-institutional database, we identified females with bladder cancer treated with RARC and intracorporeal orthotopic neobladder. We evaluated the continence rate, short-term oncological outcomes, and complication rates. Analyses were repeated and stratified by the status of preserving gynecological organs.

Results

The study involved 146 patients with the median age 60 years (IQR, 51–66 years). Pelvic organ-preserving procedure (POP) was performed in 77 patients (53%). Overall daytime and nighttime continence rates were 54% and 53%, respectively. For POP, the continence rate was 58% for both daytime and nighttime continence. In the non-POP cohort, the continence rate was 50% for daytime and 49% for nighttime continence. Both groups had balanced positive surgical margin rates (5,3% for POP and 4,7% for non-POP). In the whole cohort, high-grade (Clavien-Dindo ≥3) early and late complication rate was 7,5% and 7,5%, respectively.

Conclusions

Robot-assisted radical cystectomy with intracorporeal orthotopic neobladder in females demonstrate excellent functional and complication outcomes. Pelvic organ-preserving cystectomy enhances urinary continence rates without adversely affecting surgical margins. Orthotopic neobladder in selected women with bladder cancer, along with pelvic organ-preserving cystectomy may be used for improved functional outcomes without compromising oncological results.
Shelter selection in females of two scorpion species depends on shelter size and scent
Authors: Hladik Janina , Bailer Yorick , Wolf Harald , Stemme Torben
Published: November 2024

Shelter selection is an important task in an animal’s life. Concerning scorpions, little is known on the evaluation of potential shelters and the importance of chemosensation. To address these issues, we conducted a two-choice shelter test in rectangular open field arenas to identify properties rendering shelters attractive for female scorpions of the species E. italicus and M. eupeus. Shelters varied in size (large, small) and scent (none, conspecific: male or female, attractive: prey, aversive: rosemary oil). Contact with the shelters was video-recorded under red light for 13 h, including the whole night phase. Results revealed a preference for larger shelters, with conspecific scent having minor or no influence. Striking differences occurred with regard to prey and rosemary oil scents. Prey scent was more attractive to M. eupeus, while rosemary oil did not act as a repellent. E. italicus was not very attracted by prey scent, but was repelled by rosemary oil. These findings might reflect the different habitats, semi-arid vs. Mediterranean climates: prey and rosemary are scarce in the semi-arid climate (habitat of M. eupeus), whereas they are abundant in the Mediterranean climate (habitat of E. italicus). We carried out impairment experiments to identify the main sensory organs responsible for the above observations. These are the pectines and pedipalps which function as mechano- and chemosensors. Scorpions could not detect size nor scent properly when either their pectines or pedipalps were impaired.
Temporal interaction of suicidal ideations and behaviors with loneliness in persistent depressive disorder – a feasibility study using ecological momentary assessment
Authors: Wolf Johannes , Goerigk Stephan , Midderhoff Franziska , Burkhardt Gerrit , Bühner Markus , Köhler Stephan , Falkai Peter , Jobst Andrea , Padberg Frank , Reinhard Matthias A.
Published: November 2024

Individuals with persistent depressive disorder (PDD) are at increased risk for suicidality. Suicidality may be precipitated by loneliness. However, their temporal interplay in PDD has not been studied. We conducted a feasibility study using ecological momentary assessment (EMA) to measure short-term courses of suicidality and loneliness in 20 inpatients with PDD and current suicidality. EMA adherence of 13 completers was 81.3%. Suicidal ideations and loneliness varied with one standard deviation over three to six hours. This pilot study confirmed the feasibility of EMA in PDD and provided new insights in dynamics of suicidality and loneliness informing future study designs.
Therapeutic drug monitoring in children and adolescents with schizophrenia-spectrum, affective, behavioural, tic and other psychiatric disorders treated with aripiprazole: results of the TDM-VIGIL pharmacovigilance study
Authors: Riegger Jessica , Egberts Karin Maria , Clement Hans-Willi , Schneider-Momm Katja , Taurines Regina , Fekete Stefanie , Wewetzer Christoph , Karwautz Andreas , Correll Christoph U. , Plener Paul L. , Malzahn Uwe , Heuschmann Peter , Unterecker Stefan , Scherf-Clavel Maike , Rock Hans , Antony Gisela , Briegel Wolfgang , Banaschewski Tobias , Hellenschmidt Tobias , Kaess Michael , Kölch Michael , Renner Tobias , Rexroth Christian , Schulte-Körne Gerd , Walitza Susanne , Gerlach Manfred , Romanos Marcel , Fleischhaker Christian
Published: November 2024

Aripiprazole is approved for various severe mental disorders in adults and adolescents. However, off-label prescribing is common, especially in children and adolescents (youth) in whom aripiprazole therapeutic serum level reference ranges are lacking for any disorders. The aim of the study was to evaluate the relationship between aripiprazole dose and serum concentrations and provide further knowledge on the use of aripiprazole in order to improve drug safety and effectiveness in the treatment of minors. The clinical course of youth treated with aripiprazole in the multicentre pharmacovigilance study TDM-VIGIL was systematically followed and serum concentrations measured. Sex, age, weight and comedications were analysed to identify possible effect modifiers. A preliminary therapeutic reference range was estimated for youth with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders, affective disorders and behavioural/emotional/tic disorders coded as treatment responders based on a Clinical-Global Impressions-Improvement (CGI-I) score of much or very much improved. In 93 youth (mean age = 15.2 ± 2.6, range = 7.4–18.2 years, females = 53%, CGI-Severity = 4.4 ± 1.1, responders = 64%), a positive, moderate correlation between the weight-normalized daily dose (WNDD) and aripiprazole serum concentration (=0.791, p < 0.0001) was found. The WNDD and co-medications that interact with CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 affected aripiprazole serum levels, explaining 64% of the variance. In patients within the preliminary therapeutic ranges determined by interquartile ranges (IQRs), slightly better outcomes and fewer adverse drug reactions were found versus patients within preliminary therapeutic ranges determined by the mean ± SD. The preliminary reference range for paediatric patients with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders calculated by the IQR showed an identical lower threshold (100–230 ng/ml) compared to adult schizophrenia-spectrum disorders patients (100–350 ng/ml). The preliminary therapeutic ranges for patients with affective disorders was: 60–160 ng/ml and for patients with behavioural/tic disorders 60–140 ng/ml. The therapeutic reference ranges for aripiprazole in youth estimated via the 25th and 75th IQRs may result in more clinically relevant therapeutic windows. Further studies need to confirm these results, especially in patients with affective and behavioural/tic disorder diagnoses.
Prognostic and predictive factors for the efficacy and safety of trastuzumab deruxtecan in HER2-positive gastric or gastroesophageal junction cancer
Authors: Jubashi Amane , Nakayama Izuma , Koganemaru Shigehiro , Sakamoto Naoya , Oda Shioto , Matsubara Yuki , Miyashita Yu , Sato Seiya , Ushiyama Shinpei , Kobayashi Akinori , Okazaki Ukyo , Okemoto Dai , Yamamoto Kazumasa , Mishima Saori , Kotani Daisuke , Kawazoe Akihito , Hashimoto Tadayoshi , Nakamura Yoshiaki , Kuboki Yasutoshi , Bando Hideaki , Kojima Takashi , Yoshino Takayuki , Miyaaki Hisamitsu , Nakao Kazuhiko , Shitara Kohei
Published: November 2024

Background

Trastuzumab deruxtecan (T-DXd) is an antibody–drug conjugate targeting HER2-positive gastric cancer or gastroesophageal junction cancer (GC/GEJC). Although effective, T-DXd has notable toxicities, including interstitial lung disease (ILD). This study evaluated the efficacy, safety, and prognostic factors associated with T-DXd for GC/GEJC.

Methods

A retrospective observational study was conducted at our institution by reviewing medical records of patients treated with T-DXd until September 2023. Eligible patients had unresectable advanced or recurrent GC/GEJC, HER2 status of IHC 3 + or IHC 2 + /ISH-positive, and prior treatment with trastuzumab-containing regimen.

Results

Among the 101 patients analyzed, the initial T-DXd dose was 6.4 mg/kg in 77 patients and 5.4 mg/kg in 24 patients. The objective response rate was 54.3%, with a median PFS of 5.4 months and a median OS of 11.4 months. The significant prognostic factors for shorter PFS and OS included ECOG PS ≥ 1, presence of primary lesion, and peritoneal metastasis but not the initial T-DXd dose. ILD occurred in 14.9% of patients. Notably, higher T-DXd dose and smaller tumor burden were associated with a higher incidence of ILD.

Conclusions

Several factors were associated with prognosis after T-DXd treatment in patients with GC/GEJC. Tumor burden is a potential risk factor for T-DXd-related ILD. Further studies are needed to optimize dosing based on tumor burden and to improve the therapeutic index.
Absolute antenna group delay variations: estimation, single station repeatability and their influence on coordinate and float ambiguity estimation in baseline positioning
Authors: Platz Hans Daniel
Published: November 2024

Phase center offsets and variations (PCV) are common corrections applied to global navigation satellite system (GNSS) phase observations in the context of precise point positioning. Similar to PCV are group delay variations (GDV), which affect code observations. In this paper, absolute GDVs, which are independent of a reference antenna, are estimated as antenna- and frequency-specific for the frequencies 1575.42 MHz and 1176.45 MHz, where separation of receiving and transmitting antenna GDV is possible with non-rotating antennas. Nineteen receiving and transmitting antennas of GPS, Galileo, BeiDou, and QZSS satellites, using observations from static reference stations, are considered. The single station repeatability of the receiver antenna GDV i.e., the estimation of the GDV using only one station, is evaluated for all antenna-frequency combinations. The repeatability ranges from 1.1 to 7.6 cm at a zenith angle of 80°, showing significant differences between antennas and frequencies. The estimated GDV corrections are applied to multi-GNSS baseline positioning using a total of 116 baselines. Receiver antenna GDV corrections exhibit a significant non-zero mean effect on the code-based vertical coordinate estimate. Float ambiguities are estimated using observation periods of up to 20 min. The 0.95-quantile effect of the GDV corrections on narrow lane ambiguity estimates is 2.02 cycles at the first epoch and 0.54 cycles after 5 min using 30 s observation sampling. The effect on wide lane ambiguities is constant over the 20-min period considered, with the 0.95-quantile being around 0.1 cycles for the GNSS considered.
Dualizations of Approximations, $$\aleph _1$$-Projectivity, and Vopěnka’s Principles
Authors: Ben Yassine Asmae , Trlifaj Jan
Published: November 2024

The approximation classes of modules that arise as components of cotorsion pairs are tied up by Salce’s duality. Here we consider general approximation classes of modules and investigate possibilities of dualization in dependence on closure properties of these classes. While some proofs are easily dualized, other dualizations require large cardinal principles, and some fail in ZFC, with counterexamples provided by classes of $$\aleph _1$$

ℵ
1

-projective modules over non-perfect rings. For example, we show that the statement “each covering class of modules closed under homomorphic images is of the form $${\mathrm{Gen\,}}(M)$$

Gen

(
M
)

for a module M” is equivalent to Vopěnka’s Principle.
Improving tribological efficiency of isopropyl palmitate oil with cellulose nanocrystals: a sustainable approach for high-performance lubricants
Authors: Guimarey María J. G. , Marcos Marco A. , Vallejo Javier P. , Viesca José L. , Comuñas María J. P. , Lugo Luis , Battez Antolin Hernández
Published: November 2024

This article explores the potential of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) as a lubricant additive for isopropyl palmitate (IPP) oil to enhance its tribological performance. CNCs, derived from renewable sources, offer a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional lubricant additives. A two-step method was used to prepare the nanolubricants, with visual control and dynamic light scattering measurements to assess their temporal stability. The viscous behavior of the nanolubricants, in terms of viscosity and viscosity index, was evaluated at different temperatures. The study assesses the effectiveness of CNC/IPP oil blends as lubricants through tribological tests, including evaluations under pure sliding and rolling–sliding conditions. Studies on worn surfaces were conducted using surface roughness analysis, Raman mapping, and XPS, and the thermal stability was examined to determine their suitability for different operating conditions. CNCs significantly reduce friction by up to 44% and improve wear resistance compared to the neat IPP base oil, presumably due to a self-repairing effect. Furthermore, an improvement of the thermal conductivity of pure IPP base oil has been revealed with increasing CNC concentration. This study enhances the understanding of cellulose nanocrystals as lubricant additives and their potential to transform traditional lubricating oils into high-performance and sustainable solutions.
A Phenomenological Study of Parentification Experiences of Asian American Young Adults
Authors: Cho Sunjung , Glebova Tatiana , Seshadri Gita , Hsieh Alexander
Published: November 2024

The term ‘parentification’ describes role-reversed family processes when children provide care to their parents and family. Given the fact that race and ethnicity are among the least considered factors in the past research on parentification, the purpose of this phenomenological study was to understand the lived experiences of parentification of young Asian American adults within their sociocultural context using the contextual therapy theory. Eight individuals (five identified as Hmong, two as lu Mien, and one as Filipino), seven females and one male, ages ranging from 24 to 29, participated in semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis from which the predominant themes of early and extensive parentification experiences as children of immigrant parents, strong influences of cultural expectations, and lost childhood and identity emerged. Furthermore, the study participants complied with gender-based cultural role expectations to help their families survive. Clinical implications and study limitations are discussed.
Factors Associated with Suicidal Behavior in Adolescents: An Umbrella Review Using the Socio-Ecological Model
Authors: Prades-Caballero Virginia , Navarro-Pérez José-Javier , Carbonell Ángela
Published: November 2024

Adolescent suicide is a critical social issue with profound and lasting individual and collective consequences. This umbrella review examines factors associated with adolescent suicidal behavior through the socioecological framework of prevention and seeks to identify gaps in the existing literature. The review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and included a comprehensive search of the of the Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane databases in both English and Spanish, covering the period from 2018 to 2024, using terms related to adolescence and suicidal behavior. Out of 6,138 articles identified, 37 met the quality criteria and were selected for analysis. The studies highlighted individual risk factors such as age, gender, belonging to ethnic or gender minorities, emotional disorders, self-destructive behavior, emotional regulation, and experience of physical or emotional pain. Interpersonal factors such as parental relationships, sexual abuse, social isolation, peer pressure, and loneliness were also found. However, the review revealed a worrying lack of studies on societal and community factors and a paucity of research focusing on protective factors. The study highlights the need to include factors related to the physical and social environments that influence health and behavior in future research, as well as to enhance the resources and strengths of adolescents.
Right-angled links in thickened surfaces
Authors: Kaplan-Kelly Rose
Published: November 2024

Traditionally, alternating links are studied with alternating diagrams on $$S^2$$

S
2

in $$S^3$$

S
3

. In this paper, we consider links which are alternating on higher genus surfaces F in thickened surface $$F \times I$$

F
×
I

. We define what it means for such a link to be right-angled generalized completely realizable (RGCR) and show that this property is equivalent to the link having two totally geodesic checkerboard surfaces, equivalent to each checkerboard surface consisting of one type of polygon, and equivalent to a set of restrictions on the link’s alternating projection diagram. We then use these diagram restrictions to classify RGCR links according to the polygons in their checkerboard surfaces, provide a bound on the number of RGCR links for a given surface of genus g, and find a right-angled knot in a thickened surface. Along the way, we answer a question posed by Champanerkar, Kofman, and Purcell about links with alternating projections on the torus.
Positioning Ethics When Direct Patient Care is Prioritized: Experiences from Implementing Ethics Case Reflection Rounds in Childhood Cancer Care
Authors: Pergert Pernilla , Molewijk Bert , Bartholdson Cecilia
Published: November 2024

Caring for children with cancer involves complex ethical challenges. Ethics Case Reflection (ECR) rounds can be offered to support teams to reflect on challenges and what should be done in patient care. A training course, for facilitators of ECR rounds, has been offered to healthcare professionals (HCPs) in childhood cancer care by a Nordic working group on ethics. During/after the course, the trainees implemented and facilitated ECR rounds in their clinical setting. The aim was to explore the trainees’ experiences of implementing ECR rounds in childhood cancer care. HCPs, who participated as trainees in the course, participated in 3 focus group interviews (n = 22) and 27 individual interviews (n = 17). Interview data were analysed concurrently with data collection following classic grounded theory. Positioning ethics is the core category in this study, used to resolve the main concern of doing ethics in a context where direct patient care is prioritized. Being able to take time for ethics reflections, not perceived as the key priority, was considered a luxury in the clinical setting. Strategies for positioning ethics include allying, promoting ethics reflection, scheduling ethics reflection, and identifying ethical dilemmas. These strategies can be more or less successful and vary in intensity. The prioritisation of direct patient care is not surprising, but polarisation between care and ethics needs to be questioned and ethics reflection need to be integrated in standard care. Ethical competence seems to be central in doing ethics and more knowledge on the promotion of ethical competence in practice and education is needed.
Synthesis of Dispersed Magnetic Fe3O4 Nanohydrogel Based on Gelatine by Gamma Irradiation for Toxic Heavy Metals Removal
Authors: Elsayed Asmaa E. , Attia Sayed K. , Rashad Ahmed M. , Mahmoud Ghada A. , Osman Doaa I.
Published: November 2024

Heavy metals are among the problematic groups of contaminants. They are discharged from various industries. The wastewater disposed by heavy metals is causing major hazards to the environment. Different hydrogels based on Gelatin (gelt/AAm/EDTA) and nano- (Fe3O4/gelt/AAm/EDTA) were prepared by gamma radiation at 60 KGy and employed for heavy metals elimination. The structure and surface morphology of the manufactured hydrogels were confirmed with FTIR, X-ray, surface area, and SEM. The prepared hydrogels were characterized in terms of their gel content. The swelling properties were studied as a function of time. This research aims to investigate the adsorption properties of diverse hydrogels concerning heavy metal ions, specifically copper, cobalt, and nickel. The impact of key experimental factors, including initial metal concentration, temperature, time, and pH, was inspected via batch adsorption experiments utilizing atomic absorption spectroscopy. It was found that the adsorption of Cu+2‏, Co+2‏ and Ni+2‏ ions is pH-dependent, and the optimal pH for adsorption of Cu+2 is pH 4‏, Co+2 ‏is 5, and Ni+2‏ is 4. The highest metals removal was copper, nickel, and cobalt ions by nano (Fe3O4/gelt/AAm/EDTA) hydrogel with removal percent 98.5% for Cu+2, 96.8%for Ni+2, and 93.9%for Co+2.

Graphical Abstract
Condensation in Zero-Range Processes with a Fast Rate
Authors: Jatuviriyapornchai Watthanan , Grosskinsky Stefan
Published: November 2024

We introduce a simple zero-range process with constant rates and one fast rate for a particular occupation number, which diverges with the system size. Surprisingly, this minor modification induces a condensation transition in the thermodynamic limit, where the structure of the condensed phase depends on the scaling of the fast rate. We study this transition and its dependence on system parameters in detail on a rigorous level using size-biased sampling. This approach generalizes to any particle system with stationary product measures, and the techniques used in this paper provide a foundation for a more systematic understanding of condensing models with a non-trivial condensed phase.
The Role of Baby-Friendly Designated Hospitals in Breastfeeding Initiation Across Racial/Ethnic Groups in Florida
Authors: Lebron Cynthia N. , Larson Michaela , Chavez Jennifer , Parra Alexa
Published: November 2024

Background

Baby-Friendly Hospitals (BFH) in the United States (U.S.) are associated with higher breastfeeding initiation rates. Breastfeeding is associated with a myriad of favorable health outcomes for both mother and child. However, few studies have examined the impact of breastfeeding support resources, like BFH, on breastfeeding initiation among minority groups. The objective of this study is to evaluate the association between birth at a BFH and the breastfeeding initiation in Florida.

Methods

A retrospective exploratory analysis of BFH and birth certificate data (n=3,321,022 ) from 2004-2022 from Florida was conducted.  A logistic regression model was fit to examine the main and interaction effects of race/ethnicity and birth at a BFH on breastfeeding initiation. Time was included as a sequential variable to adjust for temporal effects. Covariates known to impact breastfeeding initiation rates, including maternal education and prenatal care utilization, were included in multivariate analyses.

Results

Of births at a BFH, 89% of mothers initiated breastfeeding. Comparatively, of the births at a non-BFH, 84% of mothers initiated breastfeeding. Giving birth at a BFH increased the odds of breastfeeding initiation by at least 42% (OR = 1.42, CI: 1.38-1.45, p <0.001, Hispanic White mothers) in unadjusted models and 10% (OR = 1.10, CI: 1.03-1.17, p = 0.004, other non-Hispanic mothers) in adjusted models. However, BFH may have differential effects by maternal race and ethnicity. In the multivariate model adjusting for relevant covariates, non-Hispanic Black mothers who gave birth at a BFH were 27% less likely to initiate breastfeeding compared to mothers that gave birth at a non-BFH (OR = 0.73, CI: 0.61- 0.88, p < 0.001; interaction term for BFH*maternal race/ethnicity). Similar trends were observed for Hispanic Black, Hispanic White, and other non-Hispanic mothers.

Conclusions

Giving birth at a BFH is associated with greater odds of breastfeeding initiation. However, when considering the race and ethnicity of mothers, these odds significantly decline, indicating a need to further explore the barriers that may preclude non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic moms from receiving the same benefits of BFH.
Understanding with Toy Surrogate Models in Machine Learning
Authors: Páez Andrés
Published: November 2024

In the natural and social sciences, it is common to use toy models—extremely simple and highly idealized representations—to understand complex phenomena. Some of the simple surrogate models used to understand opaque machine learning (ML) models, such as rule lists and sparse decision trees, bear some resemblance to scientific toy models. They allow non-experts to understand how an opaque ML model works globally via a much simpler model that highlights the most relevant features of the input space and their effect on the output. The obvious difference is that the common target of a toy and a full-scale model in the sciences is some phenomenon in the world, while the target of a surrogate model is another model. This essential difference makes toy surrogate models (TSMs) a new object of study for theories of understanding, one that is not easily accommodated under current analyses. This paper provides an account of what it means to understand an opaque ML model globally with the aid of such simple models.
Artificial Intelligence, Discrimination, Fairness, and Other Moral Concerns
Authors: Segev Re’em
Published: November 2024

Should the input data of artificial intelligence (AI) systems include factors such as race or sex when these factors may be indicative of morally significant facts? More importantly, is it wrong to rely on the output of AI tools whose input includes factors such as race or sex? And is it wrong to rely on the output of AI systems when it is correlated with factors such as race or sex (whether or not its input includes such factors)? The answers to these questions are controversial. In this paper, I argue for the following claims. First, since factors such as race or sex are not morally significant in themselves, including such factors in the input data, or relying on output that includes such factors or is correlated with them, is neither objectionable (for example, unfair) nor commendable in itself. Second, sometimes (but not always) there are derivative reasons against such actions due to the relationship between factors such as race or sex and facts that are morally significant (ultimately) in themselves. Finally, even if there are such derivative reasons, they are not necessarily decisive since there are sometimes also countervailing reasons. Accordingly, the moral status of the above actions is contingent.
Multiple solutions and orbit change in energy harvesting system with a flag configuration
Authors: Margielewicz Jerzy , Gąska Damian , Bucki Sławomir , Litak Grzegorz , Sadasivan Sreeja
Published: November 2024

The aim of this paper is to present a methodology for implementing the high-energy orbits which is still an open problem for nonlinear energy harvesters. To achieve it, this paper presents a new design of system with a flag configuration which potential function is shaped with the use of elastic elements. We have identified the lift force in FEM for wide spectrum of air velocities and used it as excitation in dimensionless mathematical model. On this basis we have conducted simulations of energy harvesting effectiveness. In the second part of the work, we focused on identifying the coexisting solutions. Due to the existence of high-energy orbits and low-energy orbits, we conducted simulations to investigate the possibility of changing the orbit. We used the Impulse Excitation Diagram here, but supplemented it with multi-colored probability distribution maps illustrating the possibility of achieving a stable orbit at given numerical values of the impulse amplitude and duration for various values of air flow velocity. The use of probability distribution maps allow to select the optimal impulse characteristics from the point of view of the energy necessary for its initiation.
Integrating myocardial CT perfusion with coronary CT angiography improves risk stratification in patients with dialysis-dependent end-stage renal disease
Authors: Araki Suguru , Kitagawa Kakuya , Nakamura Satoshi , Michallek Florian , Kokawa Takanori , Takafuji Masafumi , Sakuma Hajime
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Risk stratification for incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in patients with dialysis-dependent end-stage renal disease (dd-ESRD) is challenging. Moreover, the usefulness of coronary CT angiography (CCTA) is often limited because of high calcification. This study aimed to investigate the prognostic value of comprehensive cardiac CT in patients with dd-ESRD for predicting MACE.

Materials and methods

This retrospective analysis included 92 patients with dd-ESRD who underwent comprehensive cardiac CT. Obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) was defined by CCTA with > 50% stenosis. Global myocardial blood flow (MBF) and summed stress score (SSS) were obtained through dynamic CTP. Cox regression analysis was used to assess correlation with MACE. Kaplan–Meier curves were used to estimate cumulative event rates, and the global Chi-square test was used to assess the incremental value of dynamic CTP over CCTA.

Results

During a median follow-up of 2.3 years, 43 patients experienced MACE. Univariate analysis revealed that presence of obstructive CAD, higher SSS, and lower global MBF were significantly associated with increased risk of MACE. In multivariable analysis, lower global MBF and presence of obstructive CAD were independently associated with MACE (p = 0.02, and p = 0.04, respectively). CCTA and dynamic CTP combination had incremental value over CCTA alone for predicting MACE, respectively (global Chi-square score, 19.3 and 11.7, respectively).

Conclusion

Presence of obstructive CAD on CCTA and lower global MBF on dynamic CTP are independently associated with increased risk of MACE in patients with dd-ESRD. The addition of dynamic CTP to CCTA may improve risk stratification in this population.
Surjectivity of Convolution Operators on Harmonic NA Groups
Authors: Papageorgiou Effie
Published: November 2024

Let

$$\mu $$

μ

be a radial compactly supported distribution on a harmonic NA group. We prove that the right convolution operator

$$c_{\mu }:f \mapsto f* \mu $$

c
μ

:
f
↦
f

∗
μ

maps the space of smooth

$$\mathfrak {v}$$

v

-radial functions onto itself if and only if the spherical Fourier transform

$$\widetilde{\mu }(\lambda )$$

μ
~

(
λ
)

,

$$\lambda \in \mathbb {C}$$

λ
∈
C

, is slowly decreasing. As an application, we prove that certain averages over spheres are surjective on the space of smooth

$$\mathfrak {v}$$

v

-radial functions.
Evaluation of landing procedures for a high-altitude platform with skid-type landing gear based on pilot-in-the-loop simulations
Authors: Hasan Yasim J.
Published: November 2024

In the context of the project HAP, the German Aerospace Center (DLR) is currently developing a solar-powered high-altitude platform. The underlying vehicle is a fixed-wing aircraft that is supposed to be stationed in the stratosphere for 30 days. Due to, among others, low achievable rates of descent, the use of skids as landing gear and its high susceptibility to wind, landing this aircraft is a very challenging task. Hence, it requires a landing procedure specifically tailored to the aircraft’s particularities. Furthermore, this procedure needs to be easy to follow by pilots especially in adverse atmospheric conditions. This paper deals with a pilot-in-the-loop simulation campaign conducted to assess a landing procedure developed for the high-altitude platform in earlier works. Within this campaign, the pilots are supposed to land the aircraft following this developed procedure in atmospheric turbulence conditions. In addition, they also land the aircraft following a second procedure, which is based on a conventional landing. In doing so, the altitude at which a flare is performed and/or the propellers are shut down is varied. Finally, the novel procedure’s overall feasibility from a piloting point of view and its potential to reduce the risks during landing are assessed. The results show that the procedure proves to reduce the risk of inadvertent ground contact of the aircraft payload compartment, which is associated with serious damage to aircraft structure and payload. However, since the novel procedure is challenging for the pilots, some improvements to the procedure are proposed.
Mini-open periacetabular cementoplasty for periacetabular bone metastasis: a report of two cases
Authors: Kirisawa Masahiro , Torigoe Tomoaki , Yazawa Yasuo , Watanabe Takuya , Kadono Yuho
Published: November 2024

Bone metastasis in the periacetabular region usually causes severe pain and functional disability. Some surgical procedures, such as the Harrington surgery and percutaneous cementoplasty, have been reported as treatment options for periacetabular bone metastases with limited efficacy. The former is highly invasive, while the latter may not allow the injection of a sufficient amount of cement. Here we report two surgical cases using a new modified surgical method (mini-open periacetabular cementoplasty: MO-PAC) consisting of tumor curettage and cementoplasty through a small incision.
Acute tubulointerstitial nephritis associated with infliximab therapy in a patient with Crohn’s disease: a case report
Authors: Alghamdi Naif , Alshehri Fahad , Alhazza Sultan , Bhutto Fahad , Alhassan Azhari , Kechrid Mohammed , Alshehri Dhafer , Alshammari Kadi , Assiri Talal , Assiri Ohoud , Darewsh Emad , Ali Mohammed , Qadri Ruba , Alahmadi Yasser
Published: November 2024

We report the case of a 39-year-old man who presented with a history of generalized fatigue, nausea, subjective fever with rigors, and renal dysfunction after receiving infliximab (IFX) therapy for Crohn’s disease. A renal biopsy revealed acute tubulointerstitial nephritis (ATIN). After other causes of acute kidney injury were excluded, steroid therapy was initiated, his fever subsided, and kidney function improved. From this case report, infliximab could be a rare cause of elevated kidney function and that it should be not considered a completely safe treatment or disregarded as potential cause of ATIN.
Teleoperation in robot-assisted MIS with adaptive RCM via admittance control
Authors: Nasiri Ehsan , Sowrirajan Srikarran , Wang Long
Published: November 2024

This paper presents the development and assessment of a teleoperation framework for robot-assisted minimally invasive surgery (MIS). The framework leverages our novel integration of a previously developed adaptive remote center of motion (RCM) using admittance control. This framework operates within a redundancy resolution method specifically designed for the RCM constraint. We introduce a compact, low-cost, and modular custom-designed instrument module (IM) that ensures integration with the manipulator, featuring a force/torque sensor, a surgical instrument, and an actuation unit for driving the surgical instrument. The paper details the complete teleoperation framework, including the telemanipulation trajectory mapping, kinematic modelling, control strategy, and the integrated admittance controller. Finally, the system’s capability to perform various surgical tasks was demonstrated, including passing a thread through the rings, picking and placing objects, and trajectory tracking.
Noether’s theorems and conservation laws in magnetohydrodynamics and Chew–Goldberger–Low plasmas
Authors: Webb Gary M. , Anco Stephen C. , Meleshko Sergey V. , Kaptsov Evgeniy I.
Published: November 2024

The ideal magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) equations and the ideal Chew–Goldberger–Low (CGL) plasma equations are studied using Lagrangian field theory methods. Action principles for the equations are developed and used to obtain conservation laws using Noether’s theorems. The Galilean group admitted by the equations leads to (i) energy, (ii) momentum, (iii) center of mass, and (iv) angular momentum conservation laws corresponding to the time translation, space translation, Galilean boosts, and rotational symmetries, respectively. The cross-helicity conservation law is a consequence of a fluid relabeling symmetry, and is local or non-local depending on whether the entropy gradient ($$\nabla S$$

∇
S

) is perpendicular to the magnetic field induction $$\textbf{B}$$
B
or otherwise. The point Lie symmetries of the MHD and CGL equations consist of Galilean transformations and scalings. Noether’s second theorem is used to derive a wave action conservation equation for a linear non-WKBJ Alfvén waves model for stellar winds. Recent symmetry group investigation of the Lagrangian MHD equations in two space dimensions are discussed.