bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Building a multi‐scale, collaborative, and time‐integrated digital crust: The next stage of the Macrostrat data system
Authors: Quinn Daven P. , Idzikowski Casey R. , Peters Shanan E.
Published: October 2023

Macrostrat is a platform for deep‐time geoscientific research that integrates stratigraphic columns and geologic maps into a digital description of the crust. The database and supporting software track crustal evolution and provide location‐based geological information to geoscience end users. Macrostrat houses multiple scales of mapping and stratigraphic data, from continent‐ and basin level summaries to single quadrangles and measured sections. Currently, Macrostrat's primary data holdings consist of regional stratigraphic columns with a spatial footprint weighted heavily to North America. While the data are of sufficient scale and resolution to generate insights about Earth evolution, increasing resolution and expanding spatial coverage will allow a new generation of scientific and interpretive uses. The next phase of Macrostrat's development will increase the detail and complexity of Macrostrat's multiscale data holdings, largely by engaging a wider range of geoscientists in entering stratigraphic data. To support broad collaboration, we are building new web‐based software to assemble and visualize regional stratigraphic sequences, refine multiple working age models, and compose regional records from measured stratigraphic sections. These tools will allow Macrostrat to draw on the expertise of a wide range of geoscience workers and grow a dataset with global relevance and a variety of end uses. New capabilities will pave the way to processes for submission, review, coordination, and assimilation of community‐contributed stratigraphic datasets. Digital compilation of geological maps and columns requires substantial effort, and well‐designed systems for distributing this work in the geoscience community will allow Macrostrat to build more adaptable and scientifically relevant products.
Comparing hydrological responses across catchments using a new soil water content metric
Authors: Segura C. , Penna D. , Borga M. , Hissler C. , Iffly J. F. , Klaus J. , Latron J. , Llorens P. , Marchina C. , Martínez‐Carreras N. , Pfister L. , Zuecco G.
Published: October 2023

Soil water content (SWC) is a fundamental variable involved in several hydrological processes governing catchment functioning. Comparative analysis of hydrological processes in different catchments based on SWC data is therefore beneficial to infer driving factors of catchment response. Here, we explored the use of high‐temporal resolution SWC data in three forested catchments (2.4–60 ha) in different European climates to characterize hydrological responses during wet and dry conditions. The investigated systems include Ressi, Italy, with a humid temperate climate, Weierbach, Luxembourg, with a semi‐oceanic climate, and Can Vila, Spain, with a Mediterranean climate. We introduced a new SWC metric defined as the difference between seasonal mean SWC at a relatively shallow and a deep soil layer. The difference is classified in three distinct states: similar SWC between the two layers, higher SWC in the deeper layer, and higher SWC in the shallow layer. In the most humid site, Ressi, we frequently found similar SWC at the two soil depths which was associated with high runoff ratios. Despite similar precipitation amounts in Can Vila and Weierbach, SWC patterns were very different in both catchments. In Weierbach, SWC was similar across the entire soil profile during wet conditions, whereas evaporation of shallow water resulted in higher SWC in the deep soil layer during dry conditions. This led to high runoff ratios during wet conditions and low runoff ratios during dry conditions. In Can Vila, SWC was consistently higher in the deeper layer compared to the shallow layer, irrespective of the season, suggesting an important role of hydraulic redistribution and vertical water movement in this site. Our approach provides an easy and useful method to assess differences in hydrological behaviour solely based on SWC data. As similar datasets are increasingly collected and available, this opens the possibility for further analyses and comparisons in sites around the globe with contrasted physiographic and climate characteristics.
Carbon monoxide release from ultrasound‐sensitive microbubbles improves endothelial cell growth
Authors: Changizi Shirin , Marquette Isabel G. , VanSant Jennifer , Alghazwat Osamah , Elgattar Adnan , Liao Yi , Bashur Chris A.
Published: October 2023

Carbon monoxide is a gasotransmitter that may be beneficial for vascular tissue engineering and regenerative medicine strategies because it can promote endothelial cell (EC) proliferation and migration by binding to heme‐containing compounds within cells. For example, CO may be beneficial for vascular cognitive impairment and dementia because many patients' disrupted blood–brain barriers do not heal naturally. However, control of the CO dose is critical, and new controlled delivery methods need to be developed. This study developed ultrasound‐sensitive microbubbles with a carefully controlled precipitation technique, loaded them with CO, and assessed their ability to promote EC proliferation and function. Microbubbles fabricated with perfluoropentane exhibited good stability at room temperature, but they could still be ruptured and release CO in culture with application of ultrasound. Microbubbles synthesized from the higher boiling point compound, perfluorohexane, were too stable at physiological temperature. The lower‐boiling point perfluoropentane microbubbles had good biocompatibility and appeared to improve VE‐cadherin expression when CO was loaded in the bubbles. Finally, tissue phantoms were used to show that an imaging ultrasound probe can efficiently rupture the microbubbles and that the CO‐loaded microbubbles can improve EC spreading and proliferation compared to control conditions without microbubbles as well as microbubbles without application of ultrasound. Overall, this study demonstrated the potential for use of these ultrasound‐sensitive microbubbles for improving blood vessel endothelialization.
Comparative pharmacokinetics of four bioactive components in normal and chronic heart failure rats after oral administration of Qiangxin Lishui Prescription by microdialysis combined with ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography
Authors: Wang Qin , Jiang Yong , Wei Nina , Li Jindong , Zhang Mei , Chen Linwei
Published: October 2023

Qiangxin Lishui Prescription (QLP) has been clinically applied for treating heart failure with remarkable curative effects. A multi‐component pharmacokinetic research is very necessary for determining active substances in it. This study aims to profile the traits and differences in the pharmacokinetics of salvianolic acid B, astragaloside IV, calycosin‐7‐O‐β‐D‐glucoside and kaempferol in QLP between normal and chronic heart failure (CHF) rats by microdialysis combined with ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐MS/MS). Sensitive, selective, and online microdialysis combined with the UHPLC‐MS/MS method was successfully established and applied to study the pharmacokinetics of QLP. The pathological condition of CHF could lead to the enhancement of systematic exposure and reduction of the metabolic rate of four bioactive components for better bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy. The pharmacokinetic results will provide data support for the clinical application of QLP.
Clinical profile of pathological urticarial vasculitis: A retrospective study
Authors: Benarab Sarah , Chepy Aurélien , Dezoteux Fréderic , Azib Selma , Hachulla Eric , Launay David , Verhasselt‐Crinquette Marie , Sanges Sébastien , Staumont‐Sallé Delphine
Published: October 2023

Background

As there are no definite classification criteria for urticarial vasculitis (UV), its diagnosis is often challenging and usually proposed when urticarial lesions and pathological vasculitis coexist. By analysing the final diagnosis of patients whose skin biopsies showed both urticaria and vasculitis, we sought to decipher the clinical heterogeneity of this condition.

Objectives

To describe the characteristics of patients with pathological signs of urticaria and vasculitis.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective, descriptive, single‐centre study within Lille University Hospital and included adult patients with a skin biopsy performed between 2000 and 2021, and whose pathological report mentioned the codes for “leukocytoclastic angiitis” and “urticaria”. Clinical data were then collected from medical records.

Results

We identified 61 patients with pathological diagnosis of UV and classified them into four groups according to the final diagnosis made by the managing clinicians: 14 patients were diagnosed with UV (normo‐[NUV] or hypocomplementemic UV [HUV]), 10 with urticaria (including 8 chronic urticaria [CU]), 24 with an “undetermined diagnosis” (when elements did not allow firm diagnosis between CU and UV, due to an atypical clinical presentation of urticarial lesions), and 13 with an “other but well‐defined diagnosis”. Fibrinoid necrosis, classically associated with UV, was observed in 4/9 patients (44%) in the urticaria group. Antihistamines were effective not only in all patients with urticaria, but also in NUV and “undetermined diagnosis” group.

Conclusions

These data suggest that pathological signs of UV may be shared by various clinical situations, raising the hypothesis of a continuous spectrum between CU and UV.
Manipulation of Photonic Jets of Topological Gratings Comprising ITO Strips and Nanowalls Using Refractive Indices of Dielectric Nanofilms
Authors: Silalahi Harry Miyosi , Chiang Yu‐Chih , Lin Shih‐Hung , Jiang Yan‐Rong , Huang Chia‐Yi
Published: October 2023

This work proposes a quick measurement of the refractive index of dielectric nanofilm via a fabricated topological grating that comprises indium tin oxide (ITO) strips and nanowalls with an extremely high aspect ratio of 25. As the topological grating is capped with a dielectric nanofilm, the parabolic fields of the nanowalls destructively interfere with those of the ITO strips. This destructive interference weakens the photonic jets of the topological grating, decreasing its diffraction efficiency. The decrease in the diffraction efficiency determines the refractive index of the nanofilm without measuring its thickness in advance because the efficiency decrease is independent of the thickness. In other words, the photonic jets of the topological grating are manipulated by the refractive index of the nanofilm. The experimental results verify that refractive indices of titanium‐dioxide, silicon‐dioxide, and bovine‐serum‐albumin nanofilms with a thickness much smaller than the visible wavelengths can be measured by using the proposed topological grating. Therefore, topological gratings have great potential to develop advanced materials, fascinating devices, and innovative instruments.
Intravoxel incoherent motion imaging to assess the acute effects of moderate‐intensity continuous training and high‐intensity interval training on thigh muscles
Authors: Li Jiao , Lu Zepeng , Yuan Ling , Wang Qin , Zhu Jinxia , Bao Dapeng , Grimm Robert , Wang Xiao , Wang Xiaoye , Xue Huadan , Jin Zhengyu
Published: October 2023

This study investigated the use of intravoxel incoherent motion imaging (IVIM) to compare skeletal muscle perfusion during and after high‐intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate‐intensity continuous training (MICT) to determine the impact on fat oxidation outcomes. Twenty overweight volunteers were recruited for the study. Each participant received one HIIT intervention and one MICT intervention using a cycling ergometer. Participants underwent a magnetic resonance imaging scan before, immediately after, and 1 and 2 h after each intervention. The IVIM parameters (D, fD*) of the rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, and biceps femoris long head were obtained. Changes in IVIM parameters of these muscles after both exercise interventions were compared using a two‐factor repeated measures analysis of variance. In the rectus femoris, the fD* increased immediately after exercise intervention (d = 0.69 × 10−3 mm2/s, p < 0.0083) and 2 h after exercise intervention (d = 0.64 × 10−3 mm2/s, p < 0.0083) compared with before exercise. The increase in the fD* in the HIIT group was greater than that in the MICT group (d = 0.32, p = 0.023). In the vastus lateralis, the fD* increased immediately after the exercise intervention (d = 0.53 × 10−3 mm2/s, p < 0.001) and returned to the pre‐exercise level 1 h after exercising. The increase in the fD* in the HIIT group was lower than that in the MICT group (d = −0.21, p = 0.015). For the biceps femoris long head, the fD* was not significantly different between the two exercise interventions before and after exercise. Furthermore, the fD* 60 min after the HIIT intervention correlated with maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max), whereas fD* immediately after the MICT intervention correlated with VO2max. In summary, IVIM parameters can be used to evaluate differences in muscle perfusion between HIIT and MICT, and show a correlation with VO2max.
A semi‐Lagrangian ε$$ \varepsilon $$‐monotone Fourier method for continuous withdrawal GMWBs under jump‐diffusion with stochastic interest rate
Authors: Lu Yaowen , Dang Duy‐Minh
Published: October 2023

We develop an efficient pricing approach for guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefits (GMWBs) with continuous withdrawals under a realistic modeling setting with jump‐diffusions and stochastic interest rate. Utilizing an impulse stochastic control framework, we formulate the no‐arbitrage GMWB pricing problem as a time‐dependent Hamilton‐Jacobi‐Bellman (HJB) Quasi‐Variational Inequality (QVI) having three spatial dimensions with cross derivative terms. Through a novel numerical approach built upon a combination of a semi‐Lagrangian method and the Green's function of an associated linear partial integro‐differential equation, we develop an ‐monotone Fourier pricing method, where is a monotonicity tolerance. Together with a provable strong comparison result for the HJB‐QVI, we mathematically demonstrate convergence of the proposed scheme to the viscosity solution of the HJB‐QVI as . We present a comprehensive study of the impact of simultaneously considering jumps in the subaccount process and stochastic interest rate on the no‐arbitrage prices and fair insurance fees of GMWBs, as well as on the holder's optimal withdrawal behaviors.
Fast Preparation of W States by Designing the Evolution Operators with Rydberg Superatom
Authors: Zhang Wei‐Yue , Wang Cai‐Qing , Ji Yan‐Qiang , Shao Qiu‐Ping , Wang Ji‐Ping , Wang Jie , Yang Li‐Ping , Dong Li , Xiu Xiao‐Ming
Published: October 2023

W states play an important role in quantum information processing and quantum computing. Here, it proposes a scheme for preparing W states by designing the evolution operators with Rydberg superatoms. It encodes quantum information on the effective energy level of the superatom, and construct shortcuts to adiabatic passages (STAP) by designing the evolution operators. Combined with Quantum Zeno dynamics and STAP, it can prepare three‐particle W states quickly and efficiently. In addition, the Rabi frequency in this scheme can be described as a linear superposition of Gaussian functions, which reduces the difficulty of practical experiment. The numerical simulation shows that the scheme is robust against decoherence, operational imperfection, and noise. At last, it generalizes this scheme to preparation of N‐particle W states.
Supramolecular dissipative self‐assembly systems: Approaches and applications
Authors: Hou Xiao‐Fang , Chen Xiao , Wei Jia‐Hao , Xu Yang , Chen Xu‐Man , Li Quan
Published: October 2023

Dissipative self‐assembly (DSA) system requires a continuous supply of fuels to maintain the far‐from‐equilibrium assembled state. Living organisms exist and operate far from the thermodynamic equilibrium by continuous consumption of energy taken from the surroundings, so how to realize the construction of the artificial DSA system has attracted much attention by researchers all over the world. Owing to dynamic controllable noncovalent interactions, artificial supramolecular DSA systems have achieved higher functions fueled by various types of energy, such as chemical fuels, light, electric energy, acoustic energy, and mechanical energy. Upon the input of external fuels, nonactive precursors can be activated to form building blocks at higher energy levels and then self‐assemble into transient supramolecular structures. As the proceeding of deactivation reaction, the building blocks with higher energy level dissipate back to the initial precursors, resulting in the disassembly process, to complete a full cycle. In this review, we summarize the recent advances of artificial supramolecular DSA systems on its construction strategies and energy‐fueled regulation approaches. The applications of supramolecular DSA systems in luminescence modulating, information encryption, self‐regulating gels, drug delivery, and catalysis are also discussed. We hope that this review article will facilitate further understanding and development of DSA systems.
Early life adversity and adolescent sleep problems during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Bridgewater Jessie M. , Berzenski Sara R. , Doan Stacey N. , Yates Tuppett M.
Published: October 2023

The COVID‐19 pandemic resulted in a reorganization of adolescents' routines, especially their sleep schedules. Utilising 175 caregiver‐adolescent dyads, the current study examined associations of biological (e.g., prenatal substance use), environmental (e.g., poverty), and relational (e.g., child maltreatment) subtypes of early life adversity (ELA) with various components of adolescents' sleep across the first year of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Relational ELA explained unique variance in adolescents' sleep disturbances, but not other sleep components, following short‐ and longer‐term exposure to the COVID‐19 pandemic. However, the direction of this association switched such that relational ELA predicted decreased sleep disturbances during the initial phase of the U.S. COVID‐19 pandemic in spring 2020 beyond pre‐pandemic levels, but, over time, contributed to increased sleep disturbances beyond early‐pandemic levels as the pandemic extended into the winter of 2020.
A Biomimetic Se‐nHA/PC Composite Microsphere with Synergistic Immunomodulatory and Osteogenic Ability to Activate Bone Regeneration in Periodontitis
Authors: Ming Piaoye , Liu Yunfei , Yu Peiyang , Jiang Xueyu , Yuan Linlin , Cai Shuyu , Rao Pengcheng , Cai Rui , Lan Xiaorong , Tao Gang , Xiao Jingang
Published: October 2023

Accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in periodontitis exacerbates the destruction of alveolar bone. Therefore, scavenging ROS to reshape the periodontal microenvironment, alleviate the inflammatory response and promote endogenous stem cell osteogenic differentiation may be an effective strategy for treating bone resorption in periodontitis. In this study, sericin‐hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (Se‐nHA NPs) are synthesized using a biomimetic mineralization method. Se‐nHA NPs and proanthocyanidins (PC) are then encapsulated in sericin/sodium alginate (Se/SA) using an electrostatic injection technique to prepare Se‐nHA/PC microspheres. Microspheres are effective in scavenging ROS, inhibiting the polarization of macrophages toward the M1 type, and inducing the polarization of macrophages toward the M2 type. In normal or macrophage‐conditioned media, the Se‐nHA/PC microspheres effectively promoted the osteogenic differentiation of human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs). Furthermore, the Se‐nHA/PC microspheres demonstrated anti‐inflammatory effects in a periodontitis rat model by scavenging ROS and suppressing pro‐inflammatory cytokines. The Se‐nHA/PC microspheres are also distinguished by their capacity to decrease alveolar bone loss, reduce osteoclast activity, and boost osteogenic factor expression. Therefore, the biomimetic Se‐nHA/PC composite microspheres have efficient ROS‐scavenging, anti‐inflammatory, and osteogenic abilities and can be used as a multifunctional filling material for inflammatory periodontal tissue regeneration.
Escin‐sorafenib synergy up‐regulates LC3‐II and p62 to induce apoptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma cells
Authors: Hussain Yusuf , Singh Jyoti , Meena Abha , Sinha Rohit Anthony , Luqman Suaib
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common solid cancer and the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Sorafenib is the first drug used to treat HCC but its effectiveness needs to be improved, and it is important to find ways to treat cancer that combine sorafenib with other drugs. Synergistic therapies lower effective drug doses and side effects while enhancing the anticancer effect.

Purpose

In the present study, the therapeutic potential of sorafenib in combination with escin and its underlying mechanism in targeting liver cancer has been established.

Study Design/Methods

The IC50 of sorafenib and escin against HepG2, PLC/PRF5 and Huh7 cell lines were determined using MTT assay. The combination index, dose reduction index, isobologram and concentrations producing synergy were evaluated using the Chou‐Talaly algorithm. The sub‐effective concentration of sorafenib and escin was selected to analyze cytotoxic synergistic potential. Cellular ROS, mitochondrial membrane potential, annexin V and cell cycle were evaluated using a flow‐cytometer, and autophagy biomarkers were determined using western blotting. Moreover, autophagy was knocked down using ATG5 siRNA to confirm its role. A DEN‐induced liver cancer rat model was developed to check the synergy of sorafenib and escin.

Results

Different concentrations of escin reduced the IC50 of sorafenib in HepG2, PLC/PRF5 and Huh7 cell lines. Chou‐Talaly algorithm determined cytotoxic synergistic concentrations of sorafenib and escin in these cell lines. Mechanistically, this combination over‐expressed p62 and LC‐II, reflecting autophagy block and induced late apoptosis, further reconfirmed by ATG5 knockdown. Sorafenib and escin combination  reduced HCC serum biomarker α‐feto protein (α‐FP) by 1.5 folds. This combination restricted liver weight, tumor number and size, also, conserved morphological features of liver cells. The combination selectively targeted the G0/G1 phase of cancer cells.

Conclusion

Escin and sorafenib combination potentially up‐regulates p62 to block autophagy to induce late apoptosis in liver cancer cells.
Analysis of Brazilian consumers' perceptions of cosmetics packaging from a circular economy perspective
Authors: da Silva Ana Cecília Cavalcante , Guarnieri Patricia , Vieira Bárbara de O. , Castelo‐Branco Thaíssa V.
Published: October 2023

Nowadays, a lot more packaging is used to protect and carry products, since they are no longer sold in bulk. Brazil holds the world's fourth largest consumer market for Hygiene, Perfumery, and Cosmetics—HPC in the world. It can therefore be inferred that there is a large consumption of packaging in this sector. However, the country has with the Brazilian Solid Waste Policy (BSWP), which obligates the implementation of reverse logistics for packaging and introduces the concept of shared responsibility—everyone in the chain is responsible for the waste. This paper aims to analyzed the perception of consumers of the sector of HPC related to the disposal and reverse logistics of packaging of beauty products under the Circular Economy‐CE perspective. For this purpose, we applied an online survey with consumers in the HPC sector in Brazil. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. It was identified that consumers lack knowledge about the concepts of CE and BSWP, indicating a need to improve the environmental awareness of the population. However, most consumers showed interest in companies that are concerned with the destination of used packaging.
Conclusion and General Implications of This Study
Authors: Isabekova Gulnaz
Published: October 2023

This chapter summarizes the findings from the two case studies, namely, the Global Fund grants and the “Community Action for Health” project financed by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, covered in this book and elaborates on what these insights mean to further analysis of aid relationships and the sustainability of health aid. It also outlines the methodological validity of this research, its limitations, analytical contribution, and empirical discoveries. The chapter reiterates major theoretical insights and conclusions on how relationships among stakeholders influence the sustainability of health projects. It also delineates the findings that confirmed, contradicted, and/or were new to the literature on actors’ interactions with each other, health aid, and sustainability. The chapter concludes with considerations for the broader academic and policy implications of this study and its insights and outlines possible directions for further research.
Sustainability of Health Assistance
Authors: Isabekova Gulnaz
Published: October 2023

This chapter aims to provide an empirical operationalization and conceptual definition of sustainability in the context of health aid. Based on an overview of the literature on health interventions, it adapts and extends the existing frameworks to provide a comprehensive basis for analyzing this phenomenon. As sustainability may have diverse and, at times, contradictory connotations for different stakeholders, this chapter encourages a precise empirical operationalization of this term, following Iwelunmor et al. (Implementation Science, 11, 1–27, 2016). Conceptually, this chapter adopts Shediac-Rizkallah and Bone’s (Health Education Research, 13, 87–108, 1998) definition of sustainability as maintaining benefits, continuity of project activities, and building the capacity of a recipient community but extends it by further clarifying “community” and “capacity-building.” To this end, it builds on the works of Labonte and Laverack (Critical Public Health, 11(2), 111–127, 2001a, Critical Public Health, 11(2), 129–138, 2001b) and insights the author of this book gained during her fieldwork in the Kyrgyz Republic. Furthermore, acknowledging the high level of uncertainty associated with the assessment of sustainability, this chapter outlines the critical factors associated with the sustainability of health aid. These are financing; the political and economic situation in the recipient country; historical, systemic, and cultural factors pertinent to the context; and organizational factors related to the health intervention itself.
Sustainability of the “Community Action for Health” Project
Authors: Isabekova Gulnaz
Published: October 2023

This chapter aims to assess the sustainability of the “Community Action for Health” project by expanding on the continuity of project activities, maintaining benefits, and building the capacity of a recipient community (Shediac-Rizkallah & Bone, 1998). Focusing on community-based organizations, it also elaborates on their leadership, mobilization of resources (Labonte & Lervack, Capacity building in health promotion, Part 1: For whom? And for what purpose? Critical Public Health, 11(2), 111–127. https://doi.org/10.1080/09581590110039838, 2001a; Capacity building in health promotion, Part 2: Whose use? And with what measurement? Critical Public Health, 11(2), 129–138. https://doi.org/10.1080/09581590110039847, 2001b), and survival beyond the duration of the project funding. This chapter commences with a description of the project, its goals, and its relation to national health policy. Then, it zooms into the continuity of tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS-related activities by overviewing their dynamics during and beyond the project duration and what roles the socioeconomic and political factors had in this process. Furthermore, it assesses the availability of training and handouts essential to the quality of health-related information provided by community-based organizations established within the framework of the “Community Action for Health” initiative. Finally, this chapter elaborates on the capacities of these organizations, meaning their survival beyond the project duration, their mobilization of resources, leadership, mutual support, and activities, also in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Aid Relationships and Power Dynamics in the “Community Action for Health” Project
Authors: Isabekova Gulnaz
Published: October 2023

This chapter discusses the types of aid relationships formed between stakeholders involved in the “Community Action for Health” project. Building on the theoretical framework and empirical findings presented in the previous chapters of this book, it shows how power dynamics evolved in the project and how structural factors were conducive to supporting or changing these dynamics. This chapter also demonstrates how the actors’ changing roles throughout the project life cycle and the ways they created power (based on Haugaard, European Journal of Social Theory, 6(1), 87–113, 2003) and approached their resources were critical to the development of these dynamics. This discussion of power dynamics lays the foundation for identifying the specific types of relationships formed between aid providers (donor–donor), providers with recipients (donor–recipient state, donor–civil society organization), and aid recipients with each other (recipient state–civil society organization). Along with defining the specific types, this chapter expands on the stakeholders’ reasons for forming and maintaining the selected aid relationships.
Safety and Subcontracting
Authors: Le Coze Jean-Christophe
Published: October 2023

The aim of this introductory chapter is to provide a description of the evolving operating landscape of safety-critical systems (e.g. aviation, chemical and nuclear industries, railway) in the past two to three decades, towards network configurations based on contracting out. The topic of this book is strongly connected to this evolution and our understanding of its consequences for safety. The chapter situates the rise of these network configurations in the context of the advent of what has been described as globalisation, a phenomenon shaped by the liberalisation of trade and finance; privatisation and deregulation and the development of technology (communication, transport). A distinction between occupational safety and process safety is introduced to remain aware of different situations, depending on their nature, and positions within such networks. The chapter then summarises the different contributions to this book by a range of authors who bring unique lenses to this topic from a diversity of angles.
Introduction
Authors: Bergmann Jonas
Published: October 2023

Worldwide, climate hazards increasingly pose existential threats to subsistence farmers, many of whom struggle to manage such hazards where they live because they are multidimensionally poor. As a result, climate impacts are increasingly influencing their migration decisions. Simultaneously, many affected people are either unable to leave risk areas or do not wish to do so (immobility). Both migrating from and remaining in areas facing climate hazards can have sweeping and enduring impacts on the well-being of affected people. Nevertheless, the implications of climate migration and immobility (or climate (im)mobilities) for people’s well-being remain poorly understood. Few studies provide comprehensive analyses of how moving or staying influences multiple facets of objective need fulfillment. Even less research examines how affected people self-evaluate their lives, how they feel, and how they look to the future in these situations.
In this interdisciplinary, mixed methods dissertation, I address these gaps by dissecting multidimensional well-being impacts related to varied climate (im)mobilities within Peru. The study examines the four major types of climate (im)mobilities, namely migration, displacement, relocation, and immobility. By assessing multidimensional well-being effects and their mechanisms of action, the dissertation pursues two main goals. First, it informs debates about the potential of migration as an adaptation strategy and about loss and damage due to climate change. Second, it provides evidence that can support development and adaptation planning to safeguard the well-being of the growing number of climate migrants and people in immobility. This introduction chapter sets the stage by discussing the context and scope of the study as well as the research questions and objectives. It concludes with a preview of the structure of the dissertation and the following chapters.
Lebensqualität von kleinwüchsigen Kindern und Jugendlichen und Wachstumshormontherapie
Authors: Quitmann Julia Hannah , Binder Gerhard , Witt Stefanie , Bullinger Monika , Blömeke Janika , Fricke-Otto Susanne , Hauffa Berthold , Kahrs Sabine , Partsch Carl-Joachim , Rohenkohl Anja , Dörr Helmuth-Günther
Published: October 2023

Hintergrund

Wachstumsstörungen können psychosoziale und physische Folgen für die betroffenen Kinder, Jugendlichen und ihre Familien haben.

Fragestellung

Wie wirken sich Wachstumsstörungen und deren Behandlung mit Wachstumshormonen („human growth hormone“, hGH) auf die Lebensqualität von Kindern und Jugendlichen im Kontext von idiopathischem Wachstumshormonmangel („idiopathic growth hormone defiency“, IGHD), idiopathischem Kleinwuchs („idiopathic short stature“, ISS), Turner-Syndrom (TS), „Small-for-gestational-age“(SGA)-Kleinwuchs und Prader-Willi-Syndrom (PWS) aus?

Material und Methoden

Ergebnisse eines multiprofessionellen Arbeitstreffens mit aktueller Literaturrecherche.

Ergebnisse

In Deutschland ist eine hGH-Therapie nicht für alle Indikationen gegeben. Die Lebensqualität von Kindern und Jugendlichen mit Wachstumsstörungen und deren Eltern ist häufig beeinträchtigt, aber nicht zwangsweise. Kinder und Jugendliche mit ISS berichten oftmals eine normale bzw. höhere Lebensqualität als normalwüchsige Peers. Ebenso weisen Kinder mit PWS eine mit Peers vergleichbare Lebensqualität auf, während Kinder mit IGHD eine eingeschränkte Lebensqualität berichten und auch Mädchen mit TS negative Auswirkungen der körperlichen Besonderheiten auf das Selbstwertgefühl und das Sozialleben berichten. Die Zusammenhänge von hGH-Therapie und Lebensqualität weisen inkonsistente Ergebnisse auf; Studien berichten sowohl von einer unveränderten Lebensqualität (TS, IGHD) als auch von einer Verbesserung (IGHD, SGA, PWS).

Diskussion

Pädiatrische Wachstumsstörungen haben z. T. psychosoziale und physische Folgen. Studien zeigen jedoch inkonsistente Forschungsergebnisse. Bei der Beurteilung der Lebensqualität spielen neben der Körperhöhe noch weitere Faktoren eine wichtige Rolle, wie z. B. der familiäre Umgang mit der Erkrankung.
Limited preoperative knee extension in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using a hamstring tendon affects improvement of postoperative knee extensor strength
Authors: Sengoku Takuya , Nakase Junsuke , Mizuno Yushin , Kanayama Tomoyuki , Ishida Yoshihiro , Yanatori Yusuke , Arima Yu
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to determine the factors affecting knee extensor strength 6 months after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction using autograft hamstring tendon.

Methods

144 patients who could undergo regular follow‐up after ACL reconstruction were divided into 2 groups: those with greater than 90% (Group A: n = 95) and less than 85% (Group B: n = 49) isokinetic knee contraction at 60°/s 6 months post‐ACL reconstruction. Basic information, injury status, limited preoperative knee extension, and knee extensor strength at 3 and 6 months postoperatively were compared between the groups. Multivariate logistic analysis was performed and included variables that showed statistically significant differences between the groups in the univariate analysis. In addition, the cut‐off value for the limb symmetry index (LSI) at 3 months postoperatively needed to exceed an LSI of 90% at 6 months postoperatively was calculated using the receiver operating characteristics curve.

Results

Age, preoperative waiting period, limited preoperative knee extension, and knee extensor strength at 3 months postoperatively were significantly different between the two groups. The multivariate logistic analysis showed that all the variables affected the improvement in knee extensor strength at 6 months postoperatively. Limited preoperative knee extension was the most significant factor (odds ratio: 15.1, 95% confidence interval: 2.57–118.56, p < 0.01). The LSI cut‐off value at 3 months postoperatively was 72.0%.

Conclusion

Key factors in achieving the necessary knee extensor strength criteria for return to sports at 6 months post‐ACL reconstruction include addressing limited preoperative knee extension and achieving an LSI ≥ 72% in knee extensor strength at 3 months postoperatively.

Level of evidence

Level III.
MRI-detected intraosseous bone marrow edema recedes after effective therapy of periodontitis
Authors: Schwarting Julian , Probst Florian Andreas , Griesbauer Magdalena , Robl Teresa , Burian Egon , Wiestler Benedikt , Brunner Teresa , Malenova Yoana , Bumm Caspar , Folwaczny Matthias , Probst Monika
Published: October 2023

Objectives

T2 STIR MRI sequences can detect preclinical changes associated with periodontal inflammation, i.e. intraosseous edema in the tooth-supporting bone. In this study, we assessed whether MRI can be used for monitoring periodontal disease.

Material and methods

In a prospective cohort study, we examined 35 patients with periodontitis between 10/2018 and 04/2019 by using 3D isotropic T2-weighted short tau inversion recovery (STIR) and Fast Field Echo T1-weighted Black bone sequences. All patients received standardized clinical exams before and three months after non-surgical periodontal therapy. Bone marrow edema extent was quantified in the STIR sequence at 922 sites before and after treatment. Results were compared with standard clinical findings. Non-parametric statistical analysis was performed.

Results

Non-surgical periodontal treatment caused significant improvement in mean probing depth (p < 0.001) and frequency of bleeding on probing (p < 0.001). The mean depth of osseous edema per site was reduced from a median [IQR] of 2 [1, 3] mm at baseline to 1 [0, 3] mm, (p < 0.001). Periodontal treatment reduced the frequency of sites with edema from 35 to 24% (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

The decrease of periodontal bone marrow edema, as observed with T2 STIR MR imaging, is indicative of successful periodontal healing.

Clinical relevance statement

T2 STIR hyperintense bone marrow edema in the periodontal bone decreases after treatment and can therefore be used to evaluate treatment success. Furthermore, MRI reveals new options to depict hidden aspects of periodontitis.

Key Points

• T2 STIR hyperintense periodontal intraosseous edema was prospectively investigated in 35 patients with periodontitis before and after treatment and compared to clinical outcomes.

• The frequency of affected sites was reduced from 35 to 24% (p < 0.001), and mean edema depth was reduced from a median [IQR] of 2 [1, 3] mm at baseline to 1 [0, 3] mm 3 months after treatment. (p < 0.001).

• T2 STIR sequences can be used to monitor the posttreatment course of periodontitis.
Preoperative screening and prehabilitation strategies prior to ileocolic resection in patients with Crohn’s disease are not incorporated in routine care
Authors: Bak Michiel Thomas Jan , van Ruler Oddeke , Stassen Laurents , Ruiterkamp Marit , Arkenbosch Jeanine Hubertina Catharina , Dijkstra Gerard , Campmans-Kuijpers Maria Johanna Elisabeth , van Meeteren Nico Leonard Ulrich , Bongers Bart Chateau , Romberg-Camps Mariëlle , van der Marel Sander , Hoentjen Frank , van Dongen Koen Willem , West Rachel , van der Woude Janneke , de Vries Annemarie Charlotte ,   on behalf of the Dutch Initiative Crohn and Colitis (ICC) and Dutch Initiative on Crohn and Colitis – Surgery (ICC-S)
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Recently, recommendations on perioperative care have been published to optimize postoperative outcomes in preoperative patients with inflammatory bowel disease. This study evaluated the current use of preoperative screening and prehabilitation strategies (PS) prior to elective ileocolic resection (ICR) in patients with Crohn’s disease (CD).

Methods

Patients with CD who underwent an elective ICR were identified from a Dutch prospective cohort study. Primary endpoint was to evaluate to what extent IBD-relevant PS were applied in patients with CD prior to ICR according to the current recommendations.

Results

In total, 109 CD patients were included. Screening of nutritional status was performed in 56% of the patients and revealed malnutrition in 46% of these patients. Of the malnourished patients, 46% was referred to a dietitian. Active smoking and alcohol consumption were reported in 20% and 28%; none of these patients were referred for a cessation program. A preoperative anemia was diagnosed in 61%, and ferritin levels were assessed in 26% of these patients. Iron therapy was started in 25% of the patients with an iron deficiency anemia. Exposure to corticosteroids at time of ICR was reported in 29% and weaned off in 3%. Consultation of a dietitian, psychologist, and physiotherapist was reported in 36%, 7%, and 3%. Physical fitness was assessed in none of the patients.

Conclusion

PS are not routinely applied and not individually tailored in the preoperative setting prior to elective ICR in patients with CD. Prior to implementation, future research on the costs and effectiveness of PS on postoperative outcomes and quality of life is necessary.
Survival outcome of local versus radical resection for jejunoileal gastrointestinal stromal tumors: a propensity score-matched population-based analysis
Authors: Yan Shangcheng , Peng Wei , Cheng Ming , Zhang Jingyu , Liu Tianhua , Sheng Mengchao , Ren Rui , Chen Qiang , Gong Wei , Wu Yongyou
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Survival after local resection (LR) versus radical resection (RR) has been revealed comparable for patients with rectal and duodenal gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), but is unknown for jejunoileal (JI) GISTs. This study aimed to compare the long-term survival between patients with JI GISTs who underwent LR and RR, and to find out the prognostic factors for JI GISTs.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with JI GISTs in 1975–2019 were identified from Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database and grouped according to surgical modality. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to balance the LR and RR groups. Overall survival (OS) and disease-specific survival (DSS) were compared in the full and matched cohorts using Kaplan–Meier (KM) analysis. Subgroup sensitivity analyses were also performed. Risk factors associated with DSS were analyzed in multivariate Cox analysis following model selection.

Results

1107 patients diagnosed with JI GISTs were included in the study cohort. After PSM, OS and DSS were comparable in LR and RR groups. Consistently, the two groups had similar DSS in all subgroup analyses. Moreover, multivariate Cox analysis identified lymphadenectomy, older age, larger tumor size, distant metastasis, high and unknown mitotic rate, but not LR, as independent prognostic risk factors for JI GISTs.

Conclusions

We conducted the first population-based comparison between the effect of different surgical modes on survival for patients with JI GISTs. LR can be carried out safely without compromising oncological outcome, and should be considered as a treatment option in selected patients with JI GISTs.
Human cases of lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) infections in Hungary
Authors: Pankovics Péter , Nagy Arnold , Nyul Zoltán , Juhász Annamária , Takáts Károly , Boros Ákos , Reuter Gábor
Published: October 2023

Lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCM) is a “neglected” rodent-borne viral zoonotic disease caused by lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) (family Arenaviridae). The aim of this retrospective clinical and laboratory study was to detect LCMV RNA, using RT-PCR, in cerebrospinal fluid samples collected from patients with central nervous system (CNS) infections of unknown aetiology from over a 12-year period in Hungary. Between 2009 and 2020, a total of 74 cerebrospinal fluid samples were tested using an in-house LCMV-specific RT-PCR-based method at the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Pécs. The mean age of the 74 patients included in our study was 24 years (min. 5, max. 74), with a predominance of men (44 [59.5%]; women, 30 [40.5%]). Two (2.7%) cerebrospinal fluid samples were found to be positive for LCMV RNA by RT-PCR and sequencing. The first LCMV case was a 5-year-old preschool boy who had a hamster bite on his left-hand finger, and the second LCMV case was a 74-year-old man who was living in a village and had incipient dementia and a previous permanent functional CNS impairment. The two detected LCMV strains (MW558451 and OM648933) from the year 2020 belonged to two different genetic lineages (I and II). These two cases of CNS inflammation of unknown origin represent the first published human LCMV infections confirmed by molecular methods in Hungary.
Collision probability reduction method for tracking control in automatic docking/berthing using reinforcement learning
Authors: Wakita Kouki , Akimoto Youhei , Rachman Dimas M. , Miyauchi Yoshiki , Maki Atsuo
Published: October 2023

Automation of berthing maneuvers in shipping is a pressing issue as the berthing maneuver is one of the most stressful tasks seafarers undertake. Berthing control problems are often tackled by tracking a predefined trajectory or path. Maintaining a tracking error of zero under an uncertain environment is impossible; the tracking controller is nonetheless required to bring vessels close to desired berths. The tracking controller must prioritize the avoidance of tracking errors that may cause collisions with obstacles. This paper proposes a training method based on reinforcement learning for a trajectory tracking controller that reduces the probability of collisions with static obstacles. Via numerical simulations, we show that the proposed method reduces the probability of collisions during berthing maneuvers. Furthermore, this paper shows the tracking performance in a model experiment.