bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of the prism-interprisms three-dimension spatial microstructure on the enamel bond strength
Authors: Wang Chaoyang , Xu Jianhao , Xu Jingqiu , Deng Songwen , Fu Baiping , Zhang Ling
Published: November 2023

The prism-interprisms level of the enamel hierarchical microstructure is the largest degree of structural variation and most sophisticated structural adaptation. We studied the effect of the prism-interprisms three-dimension spatial microstructure on the enamel bond strength. We prepared 11 groups of enamel segments: longitudinally sectioned segments with or without a 45-degree bevel (group = 2), horizontally sectioned segments with or without a 45-degree bevel of three regions (the incisal, middle, and cervical) (group = 6), and tangential (labial) sectioned segments of three regions (the incisal, middle, and cervical) (group = 3). The finished surface of each segment was observed by scanning electric microscopy (SEM) before treatment with four self-etch adhesive systems and applied with four corresponding composite resins. Resin-bonded enamel samples were prepared in beams for microtensile bond strength (MTBS) tests. The results were analyzed with a three-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s post-hoc HSD multiple comparisons procedure. SEM observations revealed complex arrangements of prisms and interprisms. MTBS measurement showed that the longitudinally sectioned group had the lowest value, without significant differences between the groups with or without 45-degree bevel. Combining SEM observations and MTBS measurements, the prism-interprisms microstructure varied with the incisor regions, and different prism-interprisms microstructures allowed diverse sectioned surfaces, which could affect the enamel bonding.
How can peer teaching influence the development of medical students? a descriptive, longitudinal interview study
Authors: Avonts Marijke , Bombeke Katrien , Michels Nele R. , Vanderveken Olivier M. , De Winter Benedicte Y.
Published: November 2023

Background

Peer-assisted learning (PAL) – where students take up a teaching role at an early stage of their training—is widely used in medical curricula. Many qualitative studies have investigated the perceptions and benefits of PAL, but no studies have longitudinally explored how peer teachers experienced their development. This could allow for a better understanding of PAL. In this study, we explored the perceived impact of being a peer teacher on the development of personal and professional competencies as a medical student.

Methods

We longitudinally conducted semi-structured interviews with peer teachers, during their 2-year teaching period in the skills lab at the University of Antwerp and applied descriptive thematic analysis.

Results

In total we gathered 47 interviews in 13 peer teachers (9 female, 4 male,. 1–7 interviews each). Peer teachers reported an increase in self-confidence, which gradually transformed into self-efficacy in clinical and teaching skills., Participants told us to be inspired by the previous generation of peer teachers. Their motivation shifted from personal benefits to benefiting others while becoming a role model themselves. The peer teachers illustrated how they developed maturity by integrating different CanMEDS roles. They grew in reflection, changed/transformed an initial mark-driven study drive into more patient-centered ambitions, and started developing a personal style.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that being a peer teacher leads to more self-efficacy, in clinical and teaching skills, to become a role model with as motivation to benefit others and to grow towards a good doctor maturity. Although the task is to teach peers, this opportunity nurtures the practice and integration of various CanMEDS roles, not only that of scholar but also communicator, collaborator and leader, thereby positively influencing their personal and professional development and their identity as a doctor (professional role).
A systematic scientometric review of paternal inheritance of acquired metabolic traits
Authors: Crisóstomo Luís , Oliveira Pedro F. , Alves Marco G.
Published: November 2023

Background

The concept of the inheritance of acquired traits, a foundational principle of Lamarck’s evolutionary theory, has garnered renewed attention in recent years. Evidence for this phenomenon remained limited for decades but gained prominence with the Överkalix cohort study in 2002. This study revealed a link between cardiovascular disease incidence and the food availability experienced by individuals’ grandparents during their slow growth periods, reigniting interest in the inheritance of acquired traits, particularly in the context of non-communicable diseases. This scientometric analysis and systematic review comprehensively explores the current landscape of paternally transmitted acquired metabolic traits.

Results

Utilizing Scopus Advanced search and meticulous screening, we included mammalian studies that document the inheritance or modification of metabolic traits in subsequent generations of unexposed descendants. Our inclusive criteria encompass intergenerational and transgenerational studies, as well as multigenerational exposures. Predominantly, this field has been driven by a select group of researchers, potentially shaping the design and focus of existing studies. Consequently, the literature primarily comprises transgenerational rodent investigations into the effects of ancestral exposure to environmental pollutants on sperm DNA methylation. The complexity and volume of data often lead to multiple or redundant publications. This practice, while understandable, may obscure the true extent of the impact of ancestral exposures on the health of non-exposed descendants. In addition to DNA methylation, studies have illuminated the role of sperm RNAs and histone marks in paternally acquired metabolic disorders, expanding our understanding of the mechanisms underlying epigenetic inheritance.

Conclusions

This review serves as a comprehensive resource, shedding light on the current state of research in this critical area of science, and underscores the need for continued exploration to uncover the full spectrum of paternally mediated metabolic inheritance.
A quantitative evaluation of the impact of vaccine roll-out rate and coverage on reducing deaths: insights from the first 2 years of COVID-19 epidemic in Iran
Authors: Ghafari Mahan , Hosseinpour Sepanta , Rezaee-Zavareh Mohammad Saeid , Dascalu Stefan , Rostamian Somayeh , Aramesh Kiarash , Madani Kaveh , Kordasti Shahram
Published: November 2023

Background

Vaccination has played a pivotal role in reducing the burden of COVID-19. Despite numerous studies highlighting its benefits in reducing the risk of severe disease and death, we still lack a quantitative understanding of how varying vaccination roll-out rates influence COVID-19 mortality.

Methods

We developed a framework for estimating the number of avertable COVID-19 deaths (ACDs) by vaccination in Iran. To achieve this, we compared Iran’s vaccination roll-out rates with those of eight model countries that predominantly used inactivated virus vaccines. We calculated net differences in the number of fully vaccinated individuals under counterfactual scenarios where Iran’s per-capita roll-out rate was replaced with that of the model countries. This, in turn, enabled us to determine age specific ACDs for the Iranian population under counterfactual scenarios where number of COVID-19 deaths are estimated using all-cause mortality data. These estimates covered the period from the start of 2020 to 20 April 2022.

Results

We found that while Iran would have had an approximately similar number of fully vaccinated individuals under counterfactual roll-out rates based on Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Turkey (~ 65–70%), adopting Turkey’s roll-out rates could have averted 50,000 (95% confidence interval: 38,100–53,500) additional deaths, while following Bangladesh’s rates may have resulted in 52,800 (17,400–189,500) more fatalities in Iran. Surprisingly, mimicking Argentina’s slower roll-out led to only 12,600 (10,400–13,300) fewer deaths, despite a higher counterfactual percentage of fully vaccinated individuals (~ 79%). Emulating Montenegro or Bolivia, with faster per capita roll-out rates and approximately 50% counterfactual full vaccination, could have prevented more deaths in older age groups, especially during the early waves. Finally, replicating Bahrain’s model as an upper-bound benchmark, Iran could have averted 75,300 (56,000–83,000) deaths, primarily in the > 50 age groups.

Conclusions

Our analysis revealed that faster roll-outs were consistently associated with higher numbers of averted deaths, even in scenarios with lower overall coverage. This study offers valuable insights into future decision-making regarding infectious disease epidemic management through vaccination strategies. It accomplishes this by comparing various countries’ relative performance in terms of timing, pace, and vaccination coverage, ultimately contributing to the prevention of COVID-19-related deaths.
OGM and WES identifies translocation breakpoints in PKD1 gene in an polycystic kidney patient and healthy baby delivered using PGT
Authors: Xu Peiwen , Wang Lijuan , Li Jing , Huang Sexin , Gao Ming , Kang Ranran , Li Jie , Xie Hongqiang , Liu Xiaowei , Yan Junhao , Gao Xuan , Gao Yuan
Published: November 2023

Background

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is one of the most common autosomal dominant genetic diseases. Whole exome sequencing (WES) is a routine tool for diagnostic confirmation of genetic diseases, and it is usually performed to confirm the clinical diagnosis in ADPKD. Reciprocal translocation is the most common chromosomal structural abnormalities and most of its carriers have normal phenotypes until they are encountered infertility problems in adulthood. However, for the polycystic kidney disease caused by abnormal chromosome structure, WES is difficult to achieve the purpose of gene diagnosis.

Methods

ADPKD-related genes were detected by WES; Chromosomal karyotyping and Optical Genome Mapping (OGM) were used to detect structural variant; The genomic break-point locations and the abnormal splicing were detected by reverse transcription-PCR and Sanger sequencing; The karyomapping gene chip and Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) were performed to screen aneuploidy and to distinguish the non-carrier embryos from the carrier embryos.

Results

No pathogenic variant was found after the first round of WES analysis. Karyotyping data showed 46, XX, t (16; 17) (p13.3; q21.3). With the help of OGM, the translocation breakpoint on chromosome 16 was located within the PKD1 gene. With re-analysis of WES raw data, the breakpoint of translocation was verified to be located at the c.10618 + 3 of PKD1 gene. Based on this molecular diagnosis, a non-carrier embryo was selected out from three blastocysts. With preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) after in vitro fertilization (IVF), it was then transferred into uterus. With confirmation by prenatal and postnatal testing, the pedigree delivered a healthy baby.

Conclusion

We identified a case of ADPKD caused by balanced translocation and assisted the patient to have a healthy child. When the phenotype was closely related with a monogenic disease and the WES analysis was negative, chromosomal structural analysis would be recommended for further genetic diagnosis. Based on the precision diagnosis, preventing the recurrence of hereditary diseases in offspring would be reachable.
IGFBP2 drives epithelial-mesenchymal transition in hepatocellular carcinoma via activating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway
Authors: Chen Xiu , Zhang Yu , Zhang Pingping , Wei Mengzhu , Tian Tian , Guan Yanling , Han Chenchen , Wei Wei , Ma Yang
Published: November 2023

Metastasis has emerged as a major impediment to achieve successful therapeutic outcomes in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Nonetheless, the intricate molecular mechanisms governing the progression of HCC remain elusive. Herein, we present evidence highlighting the influence exerted by insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 2 (IGFBP2) as a potent oncogene driving the malignant phenotype. Our investigation reveals a marked elevation of IGFBP2 expression in primary tumors, concomitant with the presence of mesenchymal biomarkers in HCC. Through in vitro and in vivo experimentation, we demonstrate that the overexpression of IGFBP2 expedites the progression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and facilitates the metastatic potential of HCC cells, chiefly mediated by the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Notably, knockdown of IGFBP2 significantly decreased the expression of total and nuclear β-catenin, N-cadherin and vimentin in the treatment of the specific activator of Wnt/β-catenin CHIR-99021. Collectively, our findings identify IGFBP2 as a pivotal regulator within the HCC EMT axis, whereby its overexpression confers the distinctly aggressive clinical features characteristic of the disease.
PROACTING: predicting pathological complete response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in breast cancer from routine diagnostic histopathology biopsies with deep learning
Authors: Aswolinskiy Witali , Munari Enrico , Horlings Hugo M. , Mulder Lennart , Bogina Giuseppe , Sanders Joyce , Liu Yat-Hee , van den Belt-Dusebout Alexandra W. , Tessier Leslie , Balkenhol Maschenka , Stegeman Michelle , Hoven Jeffrey , Wesseling Jelle , van der Laak Jeroen , Lips Esther H. , Ciompi Francesco
Published: November 2023

Background

Invasive breast cancer patients are increasingly being treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy; however, only a fraction of the patients respond to it completely. To prevent overtreatment, there is an urgent need for biomarkers to predict treatment response before administering the therapy.

Methods

In this retrospective study, we developed hypothesis-driven interpretable biomarkers based on deep learning, to predict the pathological complete response (pCR, i.e., the absence of tumor cells in the surgical resection specimens) to neoadjuvant chemotherapy solely using digital pathology H&E images of pre-treatment breast biopsies. Our approach consists of two steps: First, we use deep learning to characterize aspects of the tumor micro-environment by detecting mitoses and segmenting tissue into several morphology compartments including tumor, lymphocytes and stroma. Second, we derive computational biomarkers from the segmentation and detection output to encode slide-level relationships of components of the tumor microenvironment, such as tumor and mitoses, stroma, and tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs).

Results

We developed and evaluated our method on slides from n = 721 patients from three European medical centers with triple-negative and Luminal B breast cancers and performed external independent validation on n = 126 patients from a public dataset. We report the predictive value of the investigated biomarkers for predicting pCR with areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve between 0.66 and 0.88 across the tested cohorts.

Conclusion

The proposed computational biomarkers predict pCR, but will require more evaluation and finetuning for clinical application. Our results further corroborate the potential role of deep learning to automate TILs quantification, and their predictive value in breast cancer neoadjuvant treatment planning, along with automated mitoses quantification. We made our method publicly available to extract segmentation-based biomarkers for research purposes.
Rational protein engineering of a ketoacids decarboxylase for efficient production of 1,2,4-butanetriol from arabinose
Authors: Shen Xiaolin , Xu Hongchao , Wang Tong , Zhang Ruihua , Sun Xinxiao , Yuan Qipeng , Wang Jia
Published: November 2023

Background

Lignocellulose, the most abundant non-edible feedstock on Earth, holds substantial potential for eco-friendly chemicals, fuels, and pharmaceuticals production. Glucose, xylose, and arabinose are primary components in lignocellulose, and their efficient conversion into high-value products is vital for economic viability. While glucose and xylose have been explored for such purpose, arabinose has been relatively overlooked.

Results

This study demonstrates a microbial platform for producing 1,2,4-butanetriol (BTO) from arabinose, a versatile compound with diverse applications in military, polymer, rubber and pharmaceutical industries. The screening of the key pathway enzyme, keto acids decarboxylase, facilitated the production of 276.7 mg/L of BTO from arabinose in Escherichia coli. Through protein engineering of the rate-limiting enzyme KivD, which involved reducing the size of the binding pocket to accommodate a smaller substrate, its activity improved threefold, resulting in an increase in the BTO titer to 475.1 mg/L. Additionally, modular optimization was employed to adjust the expression levels of pathway genes, further enhancing BTO production to 705.1 mg/L.

Conclusion

The present study showcases a promising microbial platform for sustainable BTO production from arabinose. These works widen the spectrum of potential lignocellulosic products and lays the foundation for comprehensive utilization of lignocellulosic components.
Health warning labels on heated tobacco products and their impact on use intentions and risk perceptions: a cross-sectional study of adult tobacco users in the US and Israel
Authors: Duan Zongshuan , Levine Hagai , Bar-Zeev Yael , Cui Yuxian , LoParco Cassidy R. , Wang Yan , Abroms Lorien C. , Khayat Amal , Berg Carla J.
Published: November 2023

Background

Health warning labels (HWLs) represent an evidence-based tobacco control strategy; however, their application to heated tobacco products (HTPs) and related impacts are understudied. This study examined the impact of HTP HWLs on HTP use intentions and risk perceptions among current tobacco users.

Methods

We analyzed cross-sectional survey data from adults in the US and Israel reporting past-month tobacco use and awareness of HTPs (N = 424). Multivariate analyses examined: (1) sociodemographics in relation to self-reported impact of HTP HWLs (i.e., more concerned about HTP use, reassured, no effect [referent]) among those who noticed HTP HWLs (multinomial regressions); and (2) HWL impacts in relation to HTP use intentions and perceived addictiveness and harm (linear regressions).

Results

Among participants who noticed HTP HWLs (n = 372, 87.7%), 27.7% reported HWLs increased their concerns about HTP use, 22.6% were reassured about use, and 49.7% reported no effect. Factors associated with increased concern (vs. no effect) included other tobacco product use (aOR = 2.10, 95% CI 1.21–3.64) and being female (aOR = 1.77, 95% CI 1.03–3.05). Factors associated with being reassured about HTPs use (vs. no effect) included current HTP use (aOR = 2.11, 95% CI 1.11–4.00) and being from Israel (vs. US: aOR = 3.85, 95% CI 1.85–7.69), female (aOR = 1.91, 95% CI 1.07–3.42), and less educated (< college education: aOR = 2.57, 95% CI 1.42–4.63). Reporting that HWLs on HTPs increased concern (β = 0.46, 95% CI 0.03–0.89) and reassured of use (β = 0.94, 95% CI 0.47–1.41) were positively associated with HTP use intentions; no associations with risk perceptions were found.

Conclusions

Findings indicate that most tobacco users noticed HWLs on HTPs, but the majority reported no effect or being reassured of using HTPs, effects that were magnified for specific subgroups. Both increased concern and reassurance correlated with greater use intentions. Additional research should evaluate HTP HWL impacts and ensure effectiveness in communicating risks and discouraging use.
Preoperative education in patients undergoing foot and ankle surgery: a scoping review
Authors: Vergara-Merino Laura , Lira María Jesús , Liquitay Camila Micaela Escobar , González-Kusjanovic Nicolás , Morales Sergio
Published: November 2023

Background

International guidelines promote preoperative education for patients undergoing orthopedic surgery. However, the evidence sustaining these recommendations comes mainly from studies for hip and knee replacement surgery. Little is known about patients undergoing foot and ankle surgery. We aimed to map and characterize all the available evidence on preoperative education for patients undergoing foot and ankle surgery.

Methods

This study complies with the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. We searched eight databases, including MEDLINE, Embase, and CENTRAL. We performed cross-citations and revised the references of included studies. We included studies addressing preoperative education in patients undergoing foot and ankle surgery. We did not exclude studies because of the way of delivering education, the agent that provided it, or the content of the preoperative education addressed in the study. Two independent authors screened the articles and extracted the data. The aggregated data are presented in descriptive tables.

Results

Of 1596 retrieved records, only 15 fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Four addressed preoperative education on patients undergoing foot and ankle surgery and the remaining 11 addressed a broader population, including patients undergoing foot and ankle surgery but did not provide separate data of them. Two studies reported that preoperative education decreases the length of stay of these patients, another reported that education increased the knowledge of the participants, and the other leaflets were well received by patients.

Conclusion

This scoping review demonstrates that evidence on preoperative education in foot and ankle surgery is scarce. The available evidence supports the implementation of preoperative education in patients undergoing foot and ankle surgery for now. The best method of education and the real impact of this education remain to be determined.
Epidemiological characteristics of seven notifiable respiratory infectious diseases in the mainland of China: an analysis of national surveillance data from 2017 to 2021
Authors: Deng Le-le , Han Ya-jun , Li Zhuo-wei , Wang Da-yan , Chen Tao , Ren Xiang , He Guang-xue
Published: November 2023

Background

Respiratory infectious diseases (RIDs) remain a pressing public health concern, posing a significant threat to the well-being and lives of individuals. This study delves into the incidence of seven primary RIDs during the period 2017–2021, aiming to gain deeper insights into their epidemiological characteristics for the purpose of enhancing control and prevention strategies.

Methods

Data pertaining to seven notifiable RIDs, namely, seasonal influenza, pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB), mumps, scarlet fever, pertussis, rubella and measles, in the mainland of China between 2017 and 2021 were obtained from the National Notifiable Disease Reporting System (NNDRS). Joinpoint regression software was utilized to analyze temporal trends, while SaTScan software with a Poisson probability model was used to assess seasonal and spatial patterns.

Results

A total of 11,963,886 cases of the seven RIDs were reported during 2017–2021, and yielding a five-year average incidence rate of 170.73 per 100,000 individuals. Among these RIDs, seasonal influenza exhibited the highest average incidence rate (94.14 per 100,000), followed by PTB (55.52 per 100,000), mumps (15.16 per 100,000), scarlet fever (4.02 per 100,000), pertussis (1.10 per 100,000), rubella (0.59 per 100,000), and measles (0.21 per 100,000). Males experienced higher incidence rates across all seven RIDs. PTB incidence was notably elevated among farmers and individuals aged over 65, whereas the other RIDs primarily affected children and students under 15 years of age. The incidences of PTB and measles exhibited a declining trend from 2017 to 2021 (APC = −7.53%, P = 0.009; APC = −40.87%, P = 0.02), while the other five RIDs peaked in 2019. Concerning seasonal and spatial distribution, the seven RIDs displayed distinct characteristics, with variations observed for the same RIDs across different regions. The proportion of laboratory-confirmed cases fluctuated among the seven RIDs from 2017 to 2021, with measles and rubella exhibiting higher proportions and mumps and scarlet fever showing lower proportions.

Conclusions

The incidence of PTB and measles demonstrated a decrease in the mainland of China between 2017 and 2021, while the remaining five RIDs reached a peak in 2019. Overall, RIDs continue to pose a significant public health challenge. Urgent action is required to bolster capacity-building efforts and enhance control and prevention strategies for RIDs, taking into account regional disparities and epidemiological nuances. With the rapid advancement of high-tech solutions, the development and effective implementation of a digital/intelligent RIDs control and prevention system are imperative to facilitate precise surveillance, early warnings, and swift responses.

Graphical Abstract
Adapting and scaling a proven diabetes prevention program across 11 worksites in India: the INDIA-WORKS trial
Authors: Weber Mary Beth , Rhodes Elizabeth C. , Ranjani Harish , Jeemon Panniyammakal , Ali Mohammed K. , Hennink Monique M. , Anjana Ranjit M. , Mohan Viswanathan , Venkat Narayan K. M. , Prabhakaran Dorairaj
Published: November 2023

Background

Structured lifestyle change education reduces the burden of cardiometabolic diseases such as diabetes. Delivery of these programs at worksites could overcome barriers to program adoption and improve program sustainability and reach; however, tailoring to the worksite setting is essential.

Methods

The Integrating Diabetes Prevention in Workplaces (INDIA-WORKS) study tested the implementation and effectiveness of a multi-level program for reducing cardiometabolic disease risk factors at 11 large and diverse worksites across India. Herein, we describe and classify program adaptations reported during in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with worksite managers, program staff, and peer educators involved in program delivery, and program participants and drop-outs. We used thematic analysis to identify key themes in the data and classified reported program adaptations using the FRAME classification system.

Results

Adaptations were led by worksite managers, peer educators, and program staff members. They occurred both pre- and during program implementation and were both planned (proactive) and unplanned (proactive and reactive). The most frequently reported adaptations to the individual-level intervention were curriculum changes to tailor lessons to the local context, make the program more appealing to the workers at the site, or add a wider variety of exercise options. Other content adaptations included improvements to the screening protocol, intervention scheduling, and outreach plans to tailor participant recruitment and retention to the sites. Environment-level content adaptations included expanding or leveraging healthy food and exercise options at the worksites. Challenges to adaptation included scheduling and worksite-level challenges. Participants discussed the need to continue adapting the program in the future to continue making it relevant for worksite settings and engaging for employees.

Conclusion

This study describes and classifies site-specific modifications to a structured lifestyle change education program with worksite-wide health improvements in India. This adds to the literature on implementation adaptation in general and worksite wellness in India, a country with a large and growing workforce with, or at risk of, serious cardiometabolic diseases. This information is key for program scale-up, dissemination, and implementation in other settings.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02813668. Registered June 27, 2016
Reply to the Discussion
Authors: Alkhimenkov Yury
Published: November 2023

Gassmann’s equations have been known for several decades and are widely used in geophysics. These equations are treated as exact if all the assumptions used in their derivation are fulfilled. However, a recent theoretical study claimed that Gassmann’s equations contain an error. Shortly after that, a 3D numerical calculation was performed on a simple pore geometry that verifies the validity of Gassmann’s equations. This pore geometry was simpler than those in real rocks but arbitrary. Furthermore, the pore geometry that was used did not contain any special features (among all possible geometries) that were tailored to make it consistent with Gassmann’s equations. In other recent studies, I also performed numerical calculations on several other more complex pore geometries that supported the validity of Gassmann’s equations. To further support the validity of these equations, I provide here one more convergence study using a more realistic geometry of the pore space. Given that there are several studies that rederive Gassmann’s equations using different methods and numerical studies that verify them for different pore geometries, it can be concluded that Gassmann’s equations can be used in geophysics without concern if their assumptions are fulfilled. MATLAB routines to reproduce the presented results are provided.
Entropy defect: Algebra and thermodynamics
Authors: Livadiotis George , McComas David J.
Published: November 2023

We investigate the way the entropy of a system can be partitioned into the entropies of its constituents in consistency with thermodynamics. This partitioning is described through the concept of an entropy defect, which measures the missing entropy between the sum of entropies of a system's constituents and the entropy of the combined system; this decrease of entropy corresponds to the order induced by the additional long-range correlations developed among the constituents of the combined system. We conclude that the most generalized addition rule is the one characterizing the kappa entropy; when the system resides in stationary states, the kappa entropy becomes the one associated with kappa distributions, while, in general, this entropy applies more broadly, in stationary or nonstationary states. Moreover, we develop the specific algebra of the addition rule with entropy defect. The addition rule forms a mathematical group on the set of any measurable physical-quantity (e.g., entropy). Finally, we use these algebraic properties to restate the generalized zeroth law of thermodynamics so that it is applicable for nonstationary as well as stationary states: If a body C measures the entropies of two other bodies, A and B, then, their combined entropy is measured as the connected A and B entropy, where the entropy defect is involved in all measurements.
Renal Cortical Glucose Uptake Is Decreased in Insulin Resistance and Correlates Inversely With Serum Free-fatty Acids
Authors: Rebelos Eleni , Mari Andrea , Honka Miikka-Juhani , Pekkarinen Laura , Latva-Rasku Aino , Laurila Sanna , Rajander Johan , Salminen Paulina , Iida Hidehiro , Ferrannini Ele , Nuutila Pirjo
Published: November 2023

Context

Studies on human renal metabolism are scanty. Nowadays, functional imaging allows the characterization of renal metabolism in a noninvasive manner. We have recently demonstrated that fluorodeoxyglucose F18 (18F FDG) positron emission tomography can be used to analyze renal glucose uptake (GU) rates, and that the renal cortex is an insulin-sensitive tissue.

Objective

To confirm that renal GU is decreased in people with obesity and to test whether circulating metabolites are related to renal GU.

Design, Setting and Participants

Eighteen people with obesity and 18 nonobese controls were studied with [18F]FDG positron emission tomography during insulin clamp. Renal scans were obtained ∼60 minutes after [18F]FDG injection. Renal GU was measured using fractional uptake rate and after correcting for residual intratubular [18F]FDG. Circulating metabolites were measured using high-throughput proton nuclear magnetic resonance metabolomics.

Results

Cortical GU was higher in healthy nonobese controls compared with people with obesity (4.7 [3.4-5.6] vs 3.1 [2.2-4.3], P = .004, respectively), and it associated positively with the degree of insulin sensitivity (M value) (r = 0.42, P = .01). Moreover, cortical GU was inversely associated with circulating β-OH-butyrate (r = -0.58, P = .009), acetoacetate (r = -0.48, P = .008), citrate (r = −0.44, P = .01), and free fatty acids (r = −0.68, P < .0001), even when accounting for the M value. On the contrary, medullary GU was not associated with any clinical parameters.

Conclusion

These data confirm differences in renal cortical GU between people with obesity and healthy nonobese controls. Moreover, the negative correlations between renal cortex GU and free fatty acids, ketone bodies, and citrate are suggestive of substrate competition in the renal cortex.
Ranavalona I of Madagascar: African Jezebel or Patriot?
Authors: Campbell Gwyn
Published: November 2023

The conventional historical interpretation of the early nineteenth-century history of Madagascar is that it reflected two contrasting reigns, that of King Radama I (r. 1810–28), and that of his successor, Queen Ranavalona I (r. 1828–61). The dominant view of Radama is that he was an enlightened, progressive, and pro-European monarch who welcomed embassies from British-ruled Mauritius from 1816, signed a treaty of alliance with Britain in 1820, and within less than a decade banned slave exports, accepted a Resident British political agent at his court, encouraged a London Missionary Society mission in Madagascar, and with British military assistance quickly subjected the entire island to his rule. By contrast, Ranavalona, Radama's senior wife, was illiterate and, guided by superstition and ancestral beliefs, unpredictable and brutal. Upon Radama's untimely death in mid-1828, Ranavalona illicitly seized the throne, established a tyrannical administration, and pursued retrograde illiberal, xenophobic, and anti-Christian policies. This article critically examines the origins of the conventional interpretation of Ranavalona and argues for the rationality of core economic and military policies she adopted aimed at safeguarding Madagascar from European imperial domination.
Routes and Hubs in the Indian Ocean World: Methodological Reconsiderations
Authors: Schnepel Burkhard
Published: November 2023

This article looks at “routes” and “hubs” in the Indian Ocean world, arguing that using these two concepts within a mobility-oriented perspective will provide an insightful addition, and alternative, to investigations that are guided solely by spatial concepts, such as “hinterland” or “littoral.” The first major part of this article discusses various routes in the history of the Indian Ocean world. It addresses questions such as the competition between various routes, their interconnectedness, their internal structure, deviations from the main routes, and the role of local pilots in showing the way to colonial powers. The second major part looks at the nodal points along such routes, here called “hubs.” It will be argued that these hubs not only enable the movements of things, but also stop them, if only temporarily, thereby often transforming them in meaning, value, and function. Therefore, hubs are also identified as having an internal dimension in addition to an external one. These points will be discussed with reference to one paradigmatic case, namely the island of Mauritius in the southwestern part of Indian Ocean world. The issue of mobility is discussed in greater detail in two further sections. While arguing in favor of mobility-oriented perspectives and methods, it is held that an overinflated use of terms such as circulation or flow may also be misleading.
Unveiling the Efficacy of Gamma Knife Radiosurgery for Tectal Plate Gliomas
Authors: Kilic Durankus Nülifer , Samanci Yavuz , Düzkalir Ali Haluk , Peker Selcuk
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Tectal plate gliomas (TPGs) are midbrain tumors that grow slowly and have a benign clinical course. Most TPGs are low-grade astrocytomas, but they can encompass various histological tumor types. Gamma Knife radiosurgery (GKRS) is being explored as a potentially safe and effective treatment option for TPGs, although research in this area is limited. This study aims to evaluate GKRS's efficacy and safety in patients with TPG and provide a comprehensive review of existing literature on the topic.

METHODS:

This retrospective, single-center study included 48 patients with consecutive TPG who underwent GKRS between September 2005 and June 2022. Patients diagnosed with TPGs based on radiological or tissue-based criteria and who had a minimum follow-up period of 12 months were eligible for inclusion. The primary end points were local control and the absence of GKRS-associated or tumor-associated mortality and morbidity.

RESULTS:

During a median follow-up of 28.5 months (range, 12-128), the radiological assessment showed tumor control in all cases, with 16.7% achieving a complete response and 68.8% achieving a partial response. Pseudoprogression occurred in 6.2% of cases, with onset ranging from 3 to 8 months. Clinical outcomes revealed no permanent neurological deterioration, with symptoms improving in 14.6% of patients and remaining stable in the others. One patient in the pseudoprogression group experienced transient Parinaud syndrome. One patient died during follow-up because of unrelated causes. The mean survival time after GKRS was 123.7 months. None of the clinical, radiological, or radiosurgical variables showed a correlation with partial/complete response, clinical improvement, or overall survival.

CONCLUSION:

There is limited research available on the management of TPGs, and this study presents the largest patient cohort treated with GKRS, along with a substantial follow-up duration. Despite its limitations, this study demonstrates the efficacy and low-risk profile of GKRS for TPGs.
Standardizing Physical Activity Monitoring in Patients With Degenerative Lumbar Disorders
Authors: Maldaner Nicolai , Tang Megan , Fatemi Parastou , Leung Chris , Desai Atman , Tomkins-Lane Christy , Zygourakis Corinna
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Degenerative thoracolumbar disorders (DTDs) typically cause pain and functional impairment. However, little is known regarding the DTD impact on patient's real-life physical activity. The objective of this study is to validate a wearable measure of physical activity monitoring in patients with DTD and to create gender- and sex-specific performance thresholds that are standardized to the mean of a control population.

METHODS:

A commercially available smartwatch (Apple Watch) was used to monitor preoperative physical activity in patients undergoing surgery for DTD. Mean preoperative physical activity 2 weeks before the scheduled surgery was expressed as raw step count. Standardized z-scores were referenced to age- and sex-specific values of a control population from a large public database. Step counts were assessed for convergent validity with established patient-reported outcome measures, and impairment in activity was stratified into performance groups based on z-score cutoff values.

RESULTS:

Sixty-five patients (62% female) with a mean (±SD) age of 63.8 (±12.8) years had a mean preoperative daily step count of 5556 (±3978). Physical activity showed significant correlation with patient-reported outcome measures, including Oswestry disability index (r = −0.26, 95% CI: −0.47-0.01), 36-Item Short Form Survey Physical Component Summary score (r = 0.30, 95% CI: 0.06-0.51), and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Physical Function (r = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.27-0.65). “No,” “Mild,” “moderate,” and “severe impairment” in activity performance were defined as corresponding z-scores of >0, 0 to −0.99, −1 to −1.99, and ≤−2, accounting for 22%, 34%, 40%, and 5% of the study population. Each one-step category increase in activity impairment resulted in increased subjective disability as measured by the Oswestry Disability Index, 36-Item Short Form Survey Physical Component Summary, and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Physical Function (all P-values <.05).

CONCLUSION:

We establish the first wearable objective measure of real-life physical activity for patients with DTD, with the first age- and sex-adjusted standard scores to enable clinicians and researchers to set treatment goals and directly compare activity levels between individual patients with DTD and normal controls.
Corticosterone and immune responses to dehydration in squamate reptiles
Authors: Moeller Karla T. , Brashears Jacqueline A. , Davies Scott , Demare Guillaume , Smith Geoffrey D. , Brusch IV George A. , Simpson Richard K. , DeNardo Dale F.
Published: November 2023

Many environments present some degree of seasonal water limitations; organisms that live in such environments must be adapted to survive periods without permanent water access. Often this involves the ability to tolerate dehydration, which can have adverse physiological effects and is typically considered a physiological stressor. While having many functions, the hormone corticosterone (CORT) is often released in response to stressors, yet increasing plasma CORT while dehydrated could be considered maladaptive, especially for species that experience predictable bouts of dehydration and have related coping mechanisms. Elevating CORT could reduce immunocompetence and have other negative physiological effects. Thus, such species likely have CORT and immune responses adapted to experiencing seasonal droughts. We evaluated how dehydration affects CORT and immune function in eight squamate species that naturally experience varied water limitation. We tested whether hydric state affected plasma CORT concentrations and aspects of immunocompetence (lysis, agglutination, bacterial killing ability and white blood cell counts) differently among species based on how seasonally water limited they are and whether this is constrained by phylogeny. The species represented four familial pairs, with one species of each pair inhabiting environments with frequent access to water and one naturally experiencing extended periods (>30 days) with no access to standing water. The effects of dehydration on CORT and immunity varied among species. Increases in CORT were generally not associated with reduced immunocompetence, indicating CORT and immunity might be decoupled in some species. Interspecies variations in responses to dehydration were more clearly grouped by phylogeny than by habitat type.
Feasibility of Autofluorescence Using Overlay Imaging for the Detection of Parathyroid Glands: Defining Standards
Authors: Arikan Melisa , Hegazy Josef , Mertlitsch Sophie , Binter Teresa , Hargitai Lindsay , Scheuba Christian , Riss Philipp
Published: November 2023

Background

The aim of this study is to define standards for the use of near-infrared autofluorescence (NIRAF)-based overlay imaging via EleVision IR (Medtronic, Dublin, Ireland) and to evaluate its clinical applicability.

Patients and Methods

This prospective study included 189 patients who had undergone open thyroid and/or parathyroid surgery and in whom EleVision IR was applied to visualize at least one parathyroid gland (PG) between January 2021 and May 2022 in a tertiary referral care center. Whether the PGs were first localized by the surgeon or by overlay imaging was noted. Handling of the device, application time and duration, distance, infrared intensity (IR%), and the angle of each measurement were analyzed. In thyroidectomies, the specimens were subsequently scanned for further PGs. NIRAF patterns and intensities were described.

Results

Overall, 543 PGs were analyzed in 158 (83.6%) surgeries of thyroid glands (TGs) and in 49 (25.9%) surgeries for hyperparathyroidism. In 111 (58.7%) patients, identical numbers of PGs were detected by the surgeon and by overlay imaging. While a larger number of PGs was identified by the surgeon in 48 (25.4%) patients, overlay imaging served to detect more PGs in 30 (15.9%) cases. In four (2.1%) patients, PGs were visualized post-thyroidectomy due to their autofluorescence on the specimen. NIRAF-based overlay imaging was applied to depict the PGs early on after exposure by the surgeon. The ideal distance for the measurement ranged between 8 and 12 cm with an angle of 90° and a mean IR% of 34.5% (± 17.6).

Conclusions

Considering the standard operating procedures, NIRAF-based overlay imaging can be used as an adjunct tool for intraoperative localization.
Dance chronicles from Athens
Authors: Παναγιωτάρα Παναγιώτα
Published: November 2023

Τι σημαίνει να είσαι καλλιτέχνης σε περίοδο κρίσης; Η παρούσα διατριβή εξετάζει τον τρόπο με τον οποίο λειτουργεί μια καλλιτεχνική σκηνή σε περιόδους κρίσης μέσα από τη μελέτη συγκεκριμένων παραδειγμάτων. Συγκεκριμένα, διερευνά τον σύγχρονο χορό στην Αθήνα από το 2008 -όταν ξέσπασε μια παρατεταμένη περίοδος οικονομικών και κοινωνικοπολιτικών αναταραχών- έως το 2016, εστιάζοντας στην ιστορία και τον μετασχηματισμό των υφιστάμενων υποδομών και των κυβερνητικών πολιτιστικών πολιτικών κατά τη διάρκεια αυτής της περιόδου και στις νέες καλλιτεχνικές πρακτικές, δομές και μορφές λόγου που προέκυψαν ως απάντηση σε αυτό το μεταβαλλόμενο πλαίσιο. Η μεθοδολογική προσέγγιση συνδυάζει βιβλιογραφικές, εθνογραφικές προσεγγίσεις που επιτρέπουν τη συμμετοχική παρατήρηση κι ανάλυση συγκεκριμένων παραδειγμάτων. Μέσω της μεθόδου του ανεκδότου ως επιλεγμένης μεθοδολογίας, η διατριβή συζητά: * βασικούς όρους που διαμορφώνουν τις πρόσφατες αντιλήψεις στην τέχνη και τις ανθρωπιστικές επιστήμες για τον σύγχρονο πολιτισμό και την εκδήλωσή τους στην Ελλάδα, όπως: κρίση, νεοφιλελευθερισμός, χρέος και επισφάλεια. * καθιερωμένοι θεσμοί, πολιτικές και λόγοι που διαμόρφωσαν την τοπική χορευτική κουλτούρα πριν και κατά τη διάρκεια της υπό διερεύνηση περιόδου. * αναδυόμενες καλλιτεχνικές πρωτοβουλίες και τρόποι παραγωγής που υποστηρίζουν μια κουλτούρα διαλόγου και συνεργατικών πρακτικών. * μορφές υποδομής που προκύπτουν μεταξύ των επίσημων θεσμών και των αυτό-οργανωμένων πρωτοβουλιών. Τα θέματα αυτά διερευνώνται ως μέρος του ταχέως μεταβαλλόμενου κοινωνικοπολιτικού και πολιτιστικού τοπίου της Ελλάδας, το οποίο έχει καταστεί σύμβολο μιας ευρύτερης κρίσης που αντιμετωπίζει το αναδιαμορφωμένο ευρωπαϊκό πολιτικό σχέδιο. Ενώ διερευνά τις ιδιαιτερότητες του ελληνικού πλαισίου κατά τη διάρκεια αυτής της περιόδου, η παρούσα διατριβή αποτελεί μέρος της ευρύτερης συζήτησης που διεξάγεται στις παραστατικές τέχνες σχετικά με το ρόλο του καλλιτέχνη στο νεοφιλελευθερισμό και συμβάλλει σε αυτήν. Παρέχοντας μια λεπτομερή μελέτη που διερευνά αυτά τα ζητήματα σε πραγματικό χρόνο, υποστηρίζει τη σημασία της εξειδίκευσης όταν διερευνούμε γενικούς όρους όπως η κρίση, ο νεοφιλελευθερισμός και οι τέχνες.
Development of language models for the mycenaean linear B script and their application in the restoration of tablets
Authors: Παπαβασιλείου Αικατερίνη
Published: November 2023

Η Μυκηναϊκή Γραμμική Β είναι μια αρχαία γραφή που χρησιμοποιήθηκε για τη συγγραφή του αρχαιότερου σταδίου της ελληνικής γλώσσας, τη Μυκηναϊκή ελληνική. Χρησιμοποιήθηκε κυρίως κατά την Ύστερη Εποχή του Χαλκού, συγκεκριμένα από τον 15ο έως τον 13ο αιώνα π.Χ. Η παρούσα διατριβή διερευνά το πρόβλημα της αποκατάστασης των μυκηναϊκών πινακίδων της Γραμμικής Β με τη χρήση μεθόδων συμπλήρωσης κειμένου που βασίζονται σε μοντέλα μηχανικής μάθησης. Για να συλλάβουμε τη στατιστική δομή των Μυκηναϊκών εγγράφων παρουσιάζουμε ένα σύνολο δεδομένων από Μυκηναϊκές ακολουθίες εστιάζοντας στις Μυκηναϊκές κατηγορίες D και ΑΒ . Προτείνουμε τη μεγέθυνση του συνόλου δεδομένων με μεθόδους επαύξησης δεδομένων που λαμβάνουν υπόψη τη δομή των Μυκηναϊκών πινακίδων. Ερευνούμε διάφορες αρχιτεκτονικές επαναλαμβανόμενων νευρωνικών δικτύων και συγκρίνουμε τα αποτελέσματά τους τόσο σε τεχνητά όσο και σε πραγματικά κενά.Για να αντιμετωπίσουμε περαιτέρω το πρόβλημα της έλλειψης δεδομένων, διερευνούμε την περίπτωση μεταφοράς γνώσης μεταξύ μοντέλων που έχουν εκπαιδευτεί σε διαφορετικές κατηγορίες, εφαρμόζοντας διαφορετικές παραμετροποιήσεις μεταφοράς μάθησης. Παρέχουμε ποσοτικά αποτελέσματα τόσο σε συνθετικές όσο και σε πραγματικές περιπτώσεις κατεστραμμένων ακολουθιών και συγκρίνουμε με τις απόψεις των ειδικών με πολλά υποσχόμενα αποτελέσματα. Τα αποτελέσματα μπορούν να επεκταθούν για να χειριστούν παρόμοια προβλήματα στη Γραμμική Β, ή άλλες αρχαίες γραφές, όπως η αποκρυπτογράφηση, η αναγνώριση θέσης ή η αναγνώριση γραφέων. Αυτή είναι η πρώτη εργασία αυτού του είδους για τη Μυκηναϊκή Γραμμική Β, η οποία ελπίζουμε να φέρει πιο κοντά τις κοινότητες των ειδικών της μηχανικής μάθησης, των αρχαιολόγων και των γλωσσολόγων.