bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Real-world experience of emicizumab prophylaxis in Korean children with severe hemophilia A without inhibitors
Authors: Kim Sung Eun , Kim Ji Yoon , Park Jeong A , Lyu Chuhl Joo , Hahn Seung Min , Han Jung Woo , Park Young Shil
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Hemophilia A is a genetic disorder characterized by a lack of factor VIII (FVIII). Emicizumab, a recombinant humanized bispecific monoclonal antibody, mimics the function of FVIII. In this article, we present data on an initial real-world evaluation of emicizumab use in Korean children with severe hemophilia A without inhibitors.

Methods

This study was conducted from June 2020 to March 2024 at 4 centers in Korea. The participants were pediatric patients with severe hemophilia A without inhibitors who had received emicizumab treatment for over 6 months. The mean and median annualized bleeding rates (ABRs) and mean and median annual joint bleeding rates (AJBRs) were compared.

Results

Each of the 21 patients in the study received an emicizumab loading regimen of 3 mg/kg weekly for 4 weeks, followed by a modified maintenance regimen of which 2 patients (9.5%) received a 1.5 mg/kg weekly dose, 3 patients (14.3%) received a 6 mg/kg dose every 4 weeks, and the remaining 16 patients (76.2%) received a 3 mg/kg dose every 2 weeks. Before emicizumab prophylaxis initiation, the mean and median ABRs for all patients were 7.04 (SD ± 5.83) and 6.52 (range 0–21.74), respectively. After receiving emicizumab treatment, the mean and mediam ABRs decreased to 0.41 and zero, respectively. Additionally, 85.7% of the patients achieved no bleeding events within 6 months of starting the treatment.

Conclusion

These first real-world data in Korea indicate that emicizumab is effective and safe for pediatric patients with severe hemophilia A without inhibitors.
Negotiating Common Goals Among Diverse Stakeholders: An Ethnography of the Czech Environmental Education’s Organisational Field
Authors: Cuker Ivan , Hájek Martin
Published: October 2024

The development of environmental education (EE) goals has rarely been problematised. To shed light on this process, we focused on EE in the Czech Republic. Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) play a key role there, facilitating the process in coordination with government institutions, schools and for-profit companies. Drawing on three theoretical perspectives that explain the formation of organisational goals (consensus building, community of discourse and practice and governmentality), we examined how different stakeholders contribute to the definition of common goals for EE. Through ethnographic research in an NGO and at EE events, complemented by interviews with lecturers and leaders, our research revealed that despite the high diversity of stakeholder positions and interests, the organisational field of EE is highly inclusive and shows few internal conflicts. Using chosen theoretical perspectives, we explain how vaguely defined common goals and weak manifestations of conflict contribute to the sharing of knowledge, practices and ethical responsibilities in the EE field.
Reclaiming what is ours: Elite continuity and revanchism
Authors: Snegovaya Maria , Lanoszka Alexander
Published: October 2024

What explains the revanchism of (post-)imperial states? This question has renewed salience amid Russia’s expanded war against Ukraine in 2022. In this article, we conceptualise revanchism as a foreign policy preference that involves reclaiming territory once controlled. We also advance a new explanation for revanchism that emphasises elite continuity in those states that experience territorial loss. Elite continuity matters because the ruling political class in (post-)imperial states, which was socialised under the old regime, preserves certain beliefs about world politics and the perceived legitimacy of their territorial claims. We show that elite continuity between the Soviet and post-Soviet political leadership in Moscow helps explain Russia’s revanchism better than those alternative explanations that we derive from the International Relations literature. To substantiate our argument, we compile a novel dataset to operationalise elite continuity across regimes and use discursive evidence and other indicators of elite attitudes towards the desirability of reclaiming lost territory. We also discuss the applicability of our theory to other cases.
Financial literacy in the DNB Household Survey: insights from innovative data collection
Authors: van Rooij Maarten , Alessie Rob , Lusardi Annamaria
Published: October 2024

This paper surveys what we have learned on financial literacy and its relation to financial behavior from data collected in the Dutch Central Bank (DNB) Household Survey, a project done in collaboration with academics. A pioneering survey fielded in 2005 included an extensive set of financial literacy questions and questions that can serve as instruments for financial literacy in regression analyses to assess the causal effect of financial literacy on behavior. We describe how this survey spurred a series of research papers demonstrating the crucial role of financial literacy in stock market participation, retirement planning, and wealth accumulation. This inspired various follow-up studies and experiments based on new data collections in the DNB Household Survey. Researchers worldwide have used these data for innovative studies, and other surveys have included similar questions. This case study exemplifies the essential role of data in empirical research, showing how innovative data collections can inspire new research initiatives and significantly contribute to our understanding of household financial decision-making.
Peer counseling for perinatal depression in low- and middle-income countries: A scoping review
Authors: Cuncannon Alexander , Seitz Kailyn , Brar Aneel Singh , Dosani Aliyah
Published: October 2024

Perinatal depression is associated with adverse maternal, newborn and child health outcomes. Treatment gaps and sociocultural factors contribute to its disproportionate burden in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Task-sharing approaches, such as peer counseling, have been developed to improve access to mental health services. We conducted a scoping review to map the current literature on peer counseling for perinatal women experiencing depression in LMICs. We searched CINAHL, MEDLINE, APA PsycINFO, Global Health and EMBASE for literature with no date limits. We included 73 records in our analysis, with most being systematic reviews and meta-analyses, randomized controlled trials and qualitative studies. Most studies were conducted in India and Pakistan and published from 2020 onward. The Thinking Healthy Program (THP) and its Peer-Delivered (THPP) adaptation were the most common interventions. Studies suggested effectiveness, feasibility, acceptability and transferability of peer counseling, particularly within the THPP, for perinatal depression. Studies indicated that local women, as peers and lay counselors, are preferred and effective implementation agents. Gaps in the evidence include those relating to understanding perinatal depression (e.g., contextual understandings of the etiology, comorbidity and heterogeneity and social conditions of psychosocial distress including long-term impacts on relationships and children’s development) and understanding and improving implementation. Further research on the adaptation, scaling up and integration of peer-delivered approaches with other approaches to improve impact are needed. There are also gaps in understanding the perspectives and experiences of peer counselors. Evidence gaps may stem from an emphasis on conventional public health approaches and measures derived from Western psychiatry, such as randomized controlled trials. There is relatively little research or implementation that prioritizes peer counselors in terms of understanding their perspectives and experiences (e.g., of professionalization), despite them being central to peer-delivered models. Task sharing has the potential to both empower peer counselors through mental health benefits and professional opportunities but also render peer counselors susceptible to vicarious exposure to traumatic stories and difficult situations amid limitations in available support. Better understanding counselors’ and perinatal women’s experiences can help decolonize the evidence base and improve implementation.
Acceptability and feasibility of a brief intervention to enhance resilience among young people and their families in India and Kenya
Authors: Bhui Kamaldeep , Basu Debasish , Nagpal Sugandha , Mutiso Victoria , Pillai Renjith , Hadfield Kristin , Lauwrens Zelna , Ndetei David
Published: October 2024

Enhancing resilience is one way to prevent future mental illnesses and encourage recovery in the face of adversity. To develop and test the acceptability and feasibility (A&F) of a combined family and individual resilience intervention in two rural/semi-rural low-income settings in India and Kenya. We developed a five-session intervention including Life Skills Education (LSE) and a model of family resiliency. Among adolescents aged 14–16 years and their families in India and Kenya, we collected socio-demographics and audio records of delivery and undertook a process evaluation. Due to COVID-19, we developed a hybrid intervention. The facilitators and participants preferred the in-person model. India: Of 17 families, 10 fully completed the intervention. They identified three critical components: 1) story-telling, 2) cooperation and working together and 3) expressing feelings. Kenya: All 15 families completed the intervention. Critical elements were 1) seeing social value in learning to make good decisions, 2) promoting an optimistic view of life, 3) hearing stories that resonated with their situation and 4) enhancing family performance through knowledge-building. We mapped the active ingredients, showing fidelity and acceptability. The intervention showed promising A&F parameters. Flexibility and local adaptation were important for delivery.
Against the clock to address plastic pollution: Critical challenges to elaborate a comprehensive and ambitious Plastic Treaty
Authors: Gonçalves Leandra R. , Webster D. G. , Grilli Natalia M. , Elliff Carla I. , Scrich Vitoria M. , Lopes Giovanna S. R. , Turra Alexander
Published: October 2024

To address the global challenge of plastic waste, 175 UN Member States are negotiating a legally binding instrument, the Plastic Treaty, aimed at ending plastic pollution. This ambitious framework, targeting both terrestrial and marine sources, is being developed through Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee meetings scheduled to conclude by 2025. Amidst uncertainties and power dynamics influencing state positions, this research identifies 10 critical, yet unresolved, points within the treaty negotiations (i.e., the scope of the treaty, equity and differentiation, involvement of non-state actors, integration with existing agreements, standards and specifications, trade implications, monitoring and reporting, responsibility and historical contributions, binding vs. non-binding commitments, and financing and technology transfer). The findings suggest potential compromises in the treaty’s environmental provisions, influenced by domestic interests and international power disparities. As negotiations progress, the imperative for cooperation and decisive action against plastic pollution becomes increasingly pressing, challenging member states to prioritize global environmental integrity over national interests.
WELL-POSEDNESS RESULTS FOR GENERAL REACTION–DIFFUSION TRANSPORT OF OXYGEN IN ENCAPSULATED CELLS
Authors: NAKAMURA YUMA , PUTRI KHARISMA SURYA , STERK ALEF EDOU , DE JONG THOMAS GEERT
Published: October 2024

We provide well-posedness results for nonlinear parabolic partial differential equations (PDEs) given by reaction–diffusion equations describing the concentration of oxygen in encapsulated cells. The cells are described in terms of a core and a shell, which introduces a discontinuous diffusion coefficient as the material properties of the core and shell differ. In addition, the cells are subject to general nonlinear consumption of oxygen. As no monotonicity condition is imposed on the consumption, monotone operator theory cannot be used. Moreover, the discontinuity in the diffusion coefficient bars us from applying classical results on strong solutions. However, by directly applying a Galerkin method, we obtain uniqueness and existence of the strong form solution. These results provide the basis to study the dynamics of cells in critical states.
Increased physiologic dead space fraction is associated with mortality after comprehensive stage 2 operation
Authors: Hardisky Dariya , Satija Divyaam , Yates Andrew R. , Clark Tamara , Alexander Robin , Galantowicz Mark , Carrillo Sergio A.
Published: October 2024

Objective:

Our objective was to assess the predictive value of physiologic dead space fraction for mortality in patients undergoing the comprehensive stage 2 operation.

Methods:

This was a single-centre retrospective observational study conducted at a quaternary free-standing children’s hospital specialising in hybrid palliation of single ventricle cardiac disease. 180 patients underwent the comprehensive stage 2 operation. 76 patients (42%) underwent early extubation, 59 (33%) standard extubation, and 45 (25%) delayed extubation. We measured time to extubation, post-operative outcomes, length of stay and utilised Fine gray models, Youden’s J statistic, cumulative incidence function, and logistic regression to analyse outcomes.

Results:

Delayed extubation group suffered significantly higher rates of mortality (31.1% vs. 6.8%), cardiac arrest (40.0% vs. 10.2%), stroke (37.8% vs. 11.9%), and need for catheter (28.9% vs. 5.1%) and surgical intervention (24.4% vs. 8.5%) (P < 0.001). Physiologic dead space fraction was significantly higher in the delayed extubation group and in non-survivors with a value of 0.3, which was found to be the discriminatory point by Youden’s J statistic. For a 0.1 unit increase in physiologic dead space fraction on post-operative day 1, the odds of a patient expiring increase by a factor of 2.26 (95% CI 1.41–3.97, p < 0.001) and by a factor of 3.79 (95% CI 1.65–11.7, p 0.01) on post-operative day 3.

Conclusions:

Delayed extubation impacts morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing the comprehensive stage 2 operation. Increased physiologic dead space fraction in the first 60 hours after arrival to the ICU is associated with higher mortality.
Improving skin-tone inclusivity in patient information leaflets for radiotherapy skin reactions: a literature review
Authors: Knight S. , Macwan S.
Published: October 2024

Introduction:

Radiotherapy is a common treatment modality for cancer patients. Unfortunately, the treatment can result in skin reactions that may affect their quality of life and clinical outcomes. PILs can provide guidance on managing early symptoms and reduce unscheduled treatment breaks. Evaluating PILs is not frequently evidence-based, and research into evaluating PILs’ inclusiveness for radiotherapy skin reactions does not exist. This study aims to contribute to the knowledge base to better serve the whole radiotherapy population.

Methods:

A constructivist methodology was developed to evaluate skin-tone inclusivity in the author’s local PILs, and a literature review was conducted to assess the knowledge base and facilitate providing recommendations for improvement.

Results:

Publication, diagnostic, language and educational bias were identified in the literature. The content analysis found the author’s departmental PILs were not inclusive of medium and dark-skinned patients.

Conclusions:

Further research into radiotherapy PILs inclusivity is warranted. The creation or amendments to existing radiotherapy skin reaction diagnostic tools are needed to cater for the whole population. Diverse educational resources are needed to contribute to the reduction of health inequalities faced by radiotherapy patients.
Long-Term Relationship over Litigation: Mediation in WTO Dispute Settlement Proceedings
Authors: Lee Jaemin
Published: October 2024

The Dispute Settlement Mechanism (DSM), once regarded as the jewel in the crown of the World Trade Organization (WTO), has been facing a variety of serious criticisms for its inherent limitations and problems while its appellate review function has been paralyzed. Discussions on the reform of the WTO DSM have been under way for several years now. Many key items are on the reform agenda, one of which is to introduce Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) proceedings to the WTO DSM. Among several options of ADR, ‘mediation’ can offer an important set of tools for the WTO and its Members to resolve disputes in a more efficient and prompt manner. If properly structured, mediation can complement the existing binding proceedings of panels and the Appellate Body. At the same time, introduction of mediation to the WTO DSM may also cause additional legal and practical problems. It may cause further delays, confidentiality traps, due process myriads, and enforcement loopholes. It is vital to introduce mediation provisions to address those critical problems. Systematized and structuralized mediation in the WTO DSM will be able to offer a viable alternative path to resolve certain complex and sensitive disputes.
Drag Force on Submerged Flexible Vegetation in an Open‐Channel Flow
Authors: Wang Jianyu , He Guojian , Huang Lei , Dey Subhasish , Fang Hongwei
Published: October 2024

The movement of submerged flexible vegetation leads to an increase in resistance to the stream flow. In this study, a formula that can directly calculate the drag force on a highly flexible submerged vegetation, called Ceratophyllum, by using the vegetation swaying characteristics and the flow field information in a steady‐uniform open‐channel flow is derived. The drag force on submerged flexible vegetation is characterized by the time‐averaged flow velocity, turbulence intensity, and the additional force arising from the vegetation swaying. Based on the results of the numerical models in the previous studies (Wang et al., 2022a, 2022b, https://doi.org/10.1017/jfm.2022.598, https://doi.org/10.1017/jfm.2022.899), the drag coefficient is determined. It is revealed that the drag coefficient is influenced by a combination of factors, including the flow conditions, and the distribution and movement characteristics of vegetation. The drag coefficient decreases with an increase in velocity and is approximately linearly related to the cubic power of the bulk flow velocity. In the case of an inter‐plant spacing of 0.5 times the initial plant height, the drag coefficient ranges from 10.72 to 2.11, as the Reynolds number varies from 20,000 to 50,000. Besides, the vegetation distribution density and the relative submergence influence the drag coefficient. In this context, the drag coefficient decreases linearly with an increase in the inter‐plant spacing. For the Reynolds number equaling 50,000, the drag coefficient ranges from 2.11 to 2.02, when the inter‐plant spacing varies from 0.5 to 2 times the plant height, and from 2.47 to 1.79, when the flow depth varies from 1.5 to 3 times the plant height.
Single-cell transcriptomics of pediatric Burkitt lymphoma reveals intra-tumor heterogeneity and markers of therapy resistance
Authors: Corinaldesi Clarissa , Holmes Antony B. , Martire Gaia , Tosato Anna , Rizzato Domenico , Lovisa Federica , Gallingani Ilaria , Shen Qiong , Ferrone Lavinia , Harris Marian , Davies Kimberly , Molinaro Luca , Mortara Umberto , Dei Tos Angelo Paolo , Ofori Kenneth , D’Amore Emanuele S. G. , Chiarle Roberto , Ngan Bo , Carraro Elisa , Pillon Marta , Hussein Shafinaz , Bhagat Govind , Pizzi Marco , Mussolin Lara , Basso Katia
Published: October 2024

Burkitt lymphoma (BL) is the most frequent B-cell lymphoma in pediatric patients. While most patients are cured, a fraction of them are resistant to therapy. To investigate BL heterogeneity and the features distinguishing therapy responders (R) from non-responders (NR), we analyzed by single-cell (sc)-transcriptomics diagnostic EBV-negative BL specimens. Analysis of the non-tumor component revealed a predominance of immune cells and a small representation of fibroblasts, enriched in NR. Tumors displayed patient-specific features, as well as shared subpopulations that expressed transcripts related to cell cycle, signaling pathways and cell-of-origin signatures. Several transcripts were differentially expressed in R versus NR. The top candidate, Tropomyosin 2 (TPM2), a member of the tropomyosin actin filament binding protein family, was confirmed to be significantly higher in NR both at the transcript and protein level. Stratification of patients based on TPM2 expression at diagnosis significantly correlated with prognosis, independently of TP53 mutations. These results indicate that BL displays transcriptional heterogeneity and identify candidate biomarkers of therapy resistance.
Kinetic origin of hysteresis and the strongly enhanced reversible barocaloric effect by regulating the atomic coordination environment
Authors: Yu Zi-Bing , Zhou Hou-Bo , Hu Feng-Xia , Wang Jian-Tao , Shen Fei-Ran , He Lun-Hua , Tian Zheng-Ying , Gao Yi-Hong , Wang Bing-Jie , Lin Yuan , Kan Yue , Wang Jing , Chen Yun-Zhong , Sun Ji-Rong , Zhao Tong-Yun , Shen Bao-Gen
Published: October 2024

Hysteresis is an inherent property of first-order transition materials that poses challenges for solid-state refrigeration applications. Extensive research has been conducted, but the intrinsic origins of hysteresis remain poorly understood. Here, we report a study of the kinetic origin of hysteresis and the enhanced barocaloric effect (BCE) in MnCoGe-based alloys with ~2% nonmagnetic In atoms. First-principles calculations demonstrate that substituting In atoms at Ge sites rather than Co sites results in a lower energy barrier, indicating a narrower hysteresis for the former. Combining neutron powder diffraction (NPD) with magnetic and calorimetric measurements completely verified the theoretical prediction. Electron local function (ELF) calculations further reveal the atomic coordination origin of regulated hysteresis due to weaker Co–Ge bonds when In atoms replace Ge, which is opposite to Co sites. Moreover, we experimentally investigate the BCE and find that although MnCo(Ge0.98In0.02) has a lower barocaloric entropy change ΔSP than does Mn(Co0.98In0.02)Ge, the reversible ΔSrev of the former is advantageous owing to a smaller hysteresis. The maximum ΔSrev of MnCo(Ge0.98In0.02) is 1.7 times greater than that of Mn(Co0.98In0.02)Ge. These results reveal the atomic-scale mechanism regulating hysteresis and provide insights into tailoring the functional properties of novel caloric refrigeration materials.
Symmetry-adapted Markov state models of closing, opening, and desensitizing in α 7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors
Authors: Zhuang Yuxuan , Howard Rebecca J. , Lindahl Erik
Published: October 2024

α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are homopentameric ligand-gated ion channels with critical roles in the nervous system. Recent studies have resolved and functionally annotated closed, open, and desensitized states of these receptors, providing insight into ion permeation and lipid binding. However, the process by which α7 nAChRs transition between states remains unclear. To understand gating and lipid modulation, we generated two ensembles of molecular dynamics simulations of apo α7 nAChRs, with or without cholesterol. Using symmetry-adapted Markov state modeling, we developed a five-state gating model. Free energies recapitulated functional behavior, with the closed state dominating in absence of agonist. Open-to-nonconducting transition rates corresponded to experimental open durations. Cholesterol relatively stabilized the desensitized state, and reduced open-desensitized barriers. These results establish plausible asymmetric transition pathways between states, define lipid modulation effects on the α7 nAChR conformational cycle, and provide an ensemble of structural models applicable to rational design of lipidic pharmaceuticals.
Metallization of leaf-derived lignocellulose scaffolds for high-performance flexible electronics and oligodynamic disinfection
Authors: Nair Rakesh Rajendran , Nita-Lazar Mihai , Badescu Valeriu Robert , Iftode Cristina , Wolansky Jakob , Antrack Tobias , Kleemann Hans , Leo Karl
Published: October 2024

Vascular tubules in natural leaves form quasi-fractal networks that can be metallized. Traditional metallization techniques for these lignocellulose structures are complex, involving metal sputtering, nanoparticle solutions, or multiple chemical pretreatments. Here we present a novel, facile, and reliable method for metallizing leaf-derived lignocellulose scaffolds using silver microparticles. The method achieves properties on-par with the state-of-the-art, such as broadband optical transmittance of over 80%, sheet resistances below 1 Ω/sq., and a current-carrying capacity exceeding 6 A over a 2.5 × 2.5 cm² quasi-fractal electrode. We also demonstrate copper electrodeposition as a cost-effective approach towards fabricating such conductive, biomimetic quasi-fractals. Additionally, we show that these metallized structures can effectively eliminate pathogenic microorganisms like fecal coliforms and E. coli, which are bacterial indicators of microbiological contamination of water. We finally show that these oligodynamic properties can be significantly enhanced with a small externally applied voltage, indicating the noteworthy potential of such structures for water purification and pollution control.
Pegylated gold nanoparticles interact with lipid bilayer and human serum albumin and transferrin
Authors: Okła Elżbieta , Michlewska Sylwia , Buczkowski Adam , Zawadzki Serafin , Miłowska Katarzyna , Sánchez-Nieves Javier , Gómez Rafael , de la Mata Francisco Javier , Bryszewska Maria , Blasiak Janusz , Ionov Maksim
Published: October 2024

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are potentially applicable in drug/nucleic acid delivery systems. Low toxicity, high stability, and bioavailability are crucial for the therapeutic use of AuNPs and they are mainly determined by their interactions with proteins and lipids on their route to the target cells. In this work, we investigated the interaction of two pegylated gold nanoparticles, AuNP14a and AuNP14b, with human serum proteins albumin (HSA) and transferrin (Tf) as well as dimyristoyl-phosphatidylcholine (DMPC) liposomes, which can be a representative of biomembranes. We showed that AuNP14a/b interacted with HSA and Tf changing their electrical, thermodynamic, and structural properties as evidenced by dynamic light scattering, zeta potential, transmission electron microscopy, circular dichroism, fluorescence quenching, and isothermal titration calorimetry. These nanoparticles penetrated the DMPC membrane suggesting their ability to reach a target inside the cell. In most of the effects, AuNP14b was more effective than AuNP14a, which might result from its more positive charge. Further studies are needed to evaluate whether the interaction of AuNP14a/b with HSA and Tf is safe for the cell/organism and whether they may safely penetrate natural membranes.
Using space lidar to infer bubble cloud depth on a global scale
Authors: Josset Damien , Cayula Stephanie , Anguelova Magdalena , Rogers W. Erick , Wang David
Published: October 2024

Visible and microwave satellite measurements can provide the global whitecap fraction. The bubble clouds are three-dimensional structures, and a space-based lidar can provide complementary observations of the bubble depth. Here, we use lidar measurements of the Cloud-Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observation (CALIPSO) satellite to quantify global bubble depth from the depolarization. The relationship between CALIPSO bubble depth and wind speed from the Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer for EOS (AMSR-E) and AMSR2 is similar to a recently derived relationship based on buoy measurements. The CALIPSO-based bubble depth data show global distributions and seasonal variations consistent with the high wind speed (> 7 m/s) but with some variance. We also found similarities between the CALIPSO bubble depth and the whitecap fraction from AMSR2 and WindSat. Our findings support the use of spaceborne lidar measurements for advancing the understanding of the 3D bubble properties, and the ocean physics at high wind speeds.
T cell immuno-phenotyping : a source of predictive biomarkers for autoimmune hepatitis relapse
Authors: Imbert Astrid , Gavlovsky Pierre-Jean , Judor Jean-Paul , Bardou-Jacquet Edouard , Elkrief Laure , Lannes Adrien , Silvain Christine , Schnee Mathieu , Tanne Florence , Chevalier Caroline , Vavasseur Fabienne , Khaldi Marion , Brouard Sophie , Mosnier Jean-François , Gournay Jérôme , Conchon Sophie , Renand Amédée
Published: October 2024

Relapse after immunosuppression (IS) treatment withdrawal is frequent in patients with Autoimmune Hepatitis (AIH), and non-invasive biomarkers predictive of this risk are lacking. We assessed the frequency of circulating T cell subsets as potential biomarkers of disease activity and predictor of the risk of relapse after IS withdrawal. Serum levels of the cytokine B-cell Activating Factor (BAFF) were also investigated. Blood samples from 58 patients with active AIH, 56 AIH patients in remission, and 31 patients with NASH were analyzed. The frequency of activated CD4+ T peripheral helper (TPH) cells (CD4+CD45RA-CXCR5-PD1+CD38+) and of activated CD8+ T cells (CD8+CD45RA-PD1+CD38+) were assessed by flow cytometry. BAFF levels were determined by ELISA. Activated TPH and CD8+ T cell frequencies were significantly increased in patients with active AIH compared to remission AIH or NASH (TPH: 0.88% of total CD3+ vs. 0.42% and 0.39% respectively, p < 0.0001; CD8+ subset: 1.42% vs. 0.09% and 0.11% p < 0.0001). Among patients in remission undergoing treatment withdrawal (n = 18), those with increased frequencies of activated TPH (> 0.5% of total CD3+) and/or activated CD8+ T cells (> 0.18% total CD3+) had a higher risk of relapse (80% vs. 15% after 2 years, p = 0.0071). High BAFF serum concentration (> 213pg/ml) was also associated to a higher risk of relapse (57% vs. 11%, p = 0.0452). In conclusion, high frequency of activated TPH and of activated CD8+, as well as high levels of BAFF, before IS discontinuation, were significantly associated to a greater risk of relapse during the first two years. Thus, they represent promising biomarkers to provide personalized clinical follow-up for patients with AIH.
The effects of restorative material and location on the detection of simulated recurrent caries. A comparison of dental film, direct digital radiography and tuned aperture computed tomography
Authors: Nair M K , Tyndall D A , Ludlow J B , May K , Ye F
Published: October 2024

OBJECTIVES

To explore the effects of restorative material and lesion location on the detection of recurrent caries using intra-oral film, direct digital radiography and unprocessed and iteratively restored tuned aperture computed tomography (TACT) images.

METHODS

An in vitro model with simulated lesions in half the surfaces studied was used. Lesions of varying sizes were created at either the intersection of the facial or lingual wall and the gingival floor or on the gingival floor midway between the facial and lingual walls in the proximal boxes of 24 molar teeth with MOD inlay preparations that had been restored with amalgam, radiopaque composite or radiolucent composite.

RESULTS

Sensitivity and specificity values based on restoration were: amalgam: 59 and 87%; radiopaque composite: 68 and 78%; radiolucent composite: 36 and 93%; based on lesion location, mid-cervical floor region: 51 and 97%; point angle region: 44 and 90%; based on imaging modality, film: 40 and 85%; digital: 44 and 76%; unprocessed TACT slices: 50 and 87%, iteratively restored TACT images: 83 and 96%. Iteratively restored TACT images had the best intra- and inter-reader agreement.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of restorative materials with a density approximating that of enamel is more effective for the detection of recurrent caries. Lesions located at the buccal point angle or mid-gingival floor are more easily detected than at the lingual point angle region. The sensitivity and specificity of TACT and iteratively restored TACT images were superior to those of film and direct digital images.
Thermology and facial telethermography: Part II. Current and future clinical applications in dentistry
Authors: Gratt B M , Anbar M
Published: October 2024

Selected clinical applications using thermal imaging as an aid in dentistry are reviewed. Facial skin temperature can easily be measured in a clinical setting, without direct skin contact, by monitoring the emitted infrared radiation. This is the basis of static area telethermography (SAT) and dynamic area telethermography (DAT). SAT has recently been shown to be of help to the dentist in (1) the diagnosis of chronic orofacial pain, (2) as a unique tool in assessment of TMJ disorders, (3) as an aid in assessment of inferior alveolar nerve deficit, and (4) as a promising research tool. DAT, recently made possible by advances in computing technology combined with advanced infrared sensor technology, extracts quantitative information about hemodynamic processes from hundreds to thousands of digital thermal images of the affected facial areas, measured and collected within less than 3 min. DAT has promise of offering a better insight into aberrations of the neuronal control of facial skin perfusion and aiding our understanding of the correlation between orofacial pain and facial thermal abnormalities. This promising new insight may help in the management of orofacial pain.
Densitometric evaluation of four radiographic processing solutions
Authors: Akdeniz B G , Lomçali G
Published: October 2024

OBJECTIVE

To determine the performance of different processing solutions using an automatic processor for dental radiography.

STUDY DESIGN

One brand of dental X-ray film (Minimax, Chicago, IL, USA) was developed in an automatic processor using four different brands of processing solution: Megasan (MGS, Megasan, Ankara, Turkey), (HAC, Ankara, Turkey), Fuji (Fuji Medical, Hacettepe Cedex, France) and RP X-Omat (Eastman Kodak, Rochester, NY, USA) at a range of temperatures. Performance was evaluated with respect to base plug fog density, relative speed and contrast.

RESULTS

All solutions produced acceptable base plus fog values. MGS produced significantly greater densities (P < 0.05) than the other three solutions. Contrast obtained with Kodak and Fuji solutions was less than with MGS and HAC. Developing temperature recommended by the manufacturer of the processor were found to be higher than that needed to achieve a clinically acceptable film.

CONCLUSIONS

Depending on the processor and processing solutions used, exposure time and processing temperature can be modified while maintaining image quality. The cheapest processing solution (MGS) gave the same results as the more expensive.
Comparison of arthroscopy and radiography in patients with temporomandibular joint symptoms and generalized arthritis
Authors: Gynther G W , Tronje G
Published: October 2024

OBJECTIVE

To compare arthroscopy with radiography in patients with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) symptoms and generalized joint disease.

METHODS

Twenty patients with generalized osteoarthritis (GOA) and TMJ symptoms and 21 patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and TMJ symptoms were examined with arthroscopy and radiography (individualized oblique lateral transcranial projections and sagittal and frontal tomography).

RESULTS

In the GOA group there was a significant correlation between pronounced degenerative changes at arthroscopy and flattening of the eminence and reduced joint space superiorly and posteriorly on radiographs and between moderate to pronounced bone or disk remodelling and reduced joint space superiorly and posteriorly. In the RA group there was a significant correlation between moderate to pronounced degenerative changes at arthroscopy and radiographically extensive erosions in the condyle and between moderate to pronounced fibrosis and reduced translation.

CONCLUSION

Compared with conventional tomography, arthroscopy revealed TMJ pathology earlier and more frequently. It may therefore in individual cases be the first choice examination, particularly as treatment can be given simultaneously.
Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging in the management of coronoid process hyperplasia: review of five cases
Authors: Pregarz M , Fugazzola C , Consolo U , Andreis I A , Beltramello A , Gotte P
Published: October 2024

OBJECTIVE

To describe the imaging features of primary bilateral coronoid hyperplasia, with particular reference to the use of CT and MRI.

MATERIALS

A series of five cases is reviewed.

RESULTS

The correct diagnosis was achieved with panoramic radiography alone or with the addition of CT. MRI did not provide additional pre-operative information; it was useful in the postoperative assessment of poor functional recovery in order to determine the presence of haematoma and/or fibrosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Although panoramic radiography alone can demonstrate this condition, CT has an important role in diagnosis and is useful for an adequate surgical planning by allowing assessment of the size of impingement of the coronoid processes. MRI is useful for evaluating postoperative complications involving soft tissue.
The effects of projection geometry and trabecular texture on estimated fractal dimensions in two alveolar bone models
Authors: Chen S K , Chen C M
Published: October 2024

OBJECTIVES

To study the effects of trabecular texture and projection geometry on estimates of fractal dimensions from simulated alveolar bone.

METHODS

Two models, one scale-variant and the other relatively scale-invariant, were used. Projections of 2-D slices through both the models were calculated, a uniform series of projections computed for the angular orientations between (0 degree and 180 degrees). Results of the 128 stacked projections are the projection of the 3-D object from different angles. Power spectra were produced by calculating the squared magnitude from the data and plotted as the logarithm of the power against the logarithm of the frequency, to give the fractal dimension.

RESULTS

In the scale-variant model, the alveolar trabecular texture produced with a relatively thicker cylindrical diameter yielded a smaller fractal dimension (t = 8.44, P = 0.00). Linear regression analysis showed that the correlation between projection angle and the resulting fractal dimension was low for both the thicker cylinder (r = 0.02, P = 0.82), and for thinner cylinder (r = 0.02, P = 0.84). The scale-invariant model, also yielded a relatively smaller estimated fractal dimension (t = 7.23, P = 0.00). However, the correlation between projection angle and the resulting estimate of the fractal dimension was found to be low for both trabecular configurations (r = 0.10, P = 0.29 and r = 0.07, P = 0.45 respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Fractal dimensions increased when the diameter of the simulated cylindrical trabeculae decreased irrespective of the differences in self-similarity. The degree to which they varied with projection angle was relatively less for the scale-invariant (self-similar) model. However, fractal dimensions changed significantly with projection geometry.
Paragangliomas of the head and neck region
Authors: Pilcher R
Published: October 2024

Three patients with paragangliomas of the head and neck region were referred to an oral and facial unit during a 16-month period. Because such lesions are rare, it was not initially considered in the differential diagnosis. This paper reviews these tumours and stresses the importance of including them in the differential diagnosis of a neck mass.
Effect of different background lighting conditions on diagnostic performance of digital and film images
Authors: Cederberg R A , Frederiksen N L , Benson B W , Shulman J D
Published: October 2024

OBJECTIVE

To compare the performance of a photostimulable phosphor (PSP) imaging system with radiographic film for the detection of approximal lesions under two background lighting conditions.

METHODS

Bitewing exposures were made of the extracted human teeth with artificial approximal lesions using D-speed and E-speed radiographic film and a PSP imaging plate. Eight dentists rated 12 approximal surfaces in each image on a 5-point scale. Images were viewed with overhead fluorescent room lighting on and off. ROC curves were generated for each image receptor and lighting condition. Repeated measures analysis of variance ANOVA tested differences between observers, lesion size, image receptor, lighting condition.

RESULTS

Mean ROC curve areas for D-speed film viewed in full ambient light scored highest (0.8030) followed by E-speed film using dark conditions (0.7386). The lowest mean curve area was found when PSP (enhanced mode) images were viewed in a dark room (0.6726). Significant differences were found between observers, lesion size, image receptor and image receptor-lesion size interaction. No significant difference was found with background lighting.

CONCLUSIONS

Background lighting does not appear to effect the ability to detect artificial approximal lesions.
Cemento-ossifying fibromas in the jaws of Hong Kong Chinese
Authors: MacDonald-Jankowski D S
Published: October 2024

OBJECTIVE

To determine the clinical and radiological features of cemento-ossifying fibroma (COF) in a Chinese population.

METHODS

Twenty cases of COF found in Chinese patients for whom the clinical notes, radiographs and histopathology reports were available, were reviewed to determine their clinical and radiological features. Overall size was measured digitally from the radiographs.

RESULTS

All COFs occurred in females and most frequently in the third and fourth decades. Seventeen COFs were in the mandible and three in the maxilla. Eighteen COFs had well-defined margins and were round or avoid in shape. Four were radiolucent and 15 mixed density. COFs tended to be smaller in women in their early to middle-40s and larger in older women.

CONCLUSIONS

The clinical and radiological features of this Chinese series were broadly consistent with those of non-Chinese populations reported previously. The principal difference was that all 20 patients were female.
Localization of the mandibular neurovascular bundle using dental magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Našel C , Gahleitner A , Breitenseher M , Czerny C , Glaser C , Solar P , Imhof H
Published: October 2024

OBJECTIVE

To assess the reliability of a commercially available 3D-MPR MRI program for the jaws for imaging the mandibular neurovascular bundle.

METHODS

A gradient echo sequence (TR: 49 ms/TE: 6.3 ms/flip angle: 25 degrees/excitations: 3) with a spectral fat suppression pre-impulse and a voxel size of 0.9 x 0.9 x 0.8 mm was designed. Cross-sectional and panoramic reconstruction of the whole mandible were performed from the axial scans using Easy Vision (Philips, Best, The Netherlands) software package. The ability of differentiate the mandibular neurovascular bundle was assessed in 11 patients.

RESULTS

The mandibular neurovascular bundle was clearly visualized in all cases.

CONCLUSION

Dental MRI is a possible alternative to plain films or CT for patients requiring surgery near the mandibular canal.
Implementation of an oral and maxillofacial radiology image management and communication system
Authors: Chen S K , Yu K M , Chen R S , Hsieh C C
Published: October 2024

OBJECTIVES

To implement an oral and maxillofacial radiology image management and communication system (OMFR IMACS) in the School of Dentistry, National Taiwan University.

METHODS

An OMFR IMACS has been implemented over 3 years in three phases: (1) Establishment of an OMFR image processing laboratory for research and graduate student training; (2) Installation of network infrastructure and (3) Total system integration.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Intraoral, panoramic, cephalometric, and TMJ radiographs are directly processed with digital image acquisition devices or are converted into a digital format for viewing via UTP cable through FastEthernet in the eleven different divisions of the school. The system archives about 400 Mb of imaging data daily, representing 80% of the workload of the OMFR Division. The system is now used parallel to the conventional film-library system and has been integrated as part of the oral health service.
Juvenile ossifying fibroma of the mandible. An 8 year radiological follow-up
Authors: Noffke C E
Published: October 2024

An 8-year follow-up of a juvenile ossifying fibroma in the left mandible of a 4-year-old boy is presented. The case demonstrated initial lack of radiological evidence of demarcation and subsequent eccentric enlargement, selective tooth displacement and a multilocular appearance in areas of active growth. An aneurysmal bone cyst and a decrease in the bone content was present in the excision specimen.
The pneumatic spaces of the temporal bone: relationship to the temporomandibular joint
Authors: Groell R , Fleischmann B
Published: October 2024

OBJECTIVES

To assess the topographic relationship between the pneumatic spaces of the temporal bone and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) using high-resolution CT.

METHODS

Findings from 100 consecutive patients who had undergone high-resolution axial CT of the base of the skull were reviewed on a digital imaging workstation. Additional multiplanar reformatted images were created in the sagittal and coronal planes through the TMJ. The extension of the pneumatic spaces of the temporal bone and their relation to the TMJ were determined on both sides.

RESULTS

The extent of pneumatisation of the temporal bone varied considerably. The roof of the TMJ fossa was pneumatised in 51 patients. The articular eminence contained air spaces in 12 patients, the root of the zygomatic process in five patients. Air cells in the peritubal area extended into the medial wall of the glenoid fossa 53 patients. In approximately 25% the extent of pneumatisation showed marked asymmetry.

CONCLUSIONS

Pneumatisation of the temporal bone frequently extends close to the TMJ. Knowledge of these air spaces is helpful for the interpretation of imaging studies such as panoramic radiographs and to understand the spread of pathological processes into the joint.
Intracortical hemangioma of the mandible
Authors: Hayashi T , Ito J , Kato T , Hinoki A , Taira S , Saku T
Published: October 2024

We describe the first reported case of an intracortical hemangioma of the mandible in a 13-year-old Japanese girl. Panoramic radiography and CT demonstrated a small osteolytic lesion which had expanded and thinned the cortex at the inferior border of the left mandible. The lesion enhanced on post-contrast T1-weighted MRI. The diagnosis was confirmed by histopathology following block excision. Intracortical hemangioma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of radiolucent lesions orf the mandible