bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chasing two hares at once: The effects of goal orientation (in)congruence in teams
Authors: Sohn Wonbin , Harvey Jean‐François
Published: July 2024

Organizations must excel at what they do well while also learning new ways of operating to achieve long‐term success. Work teams may thus find themselves pursuing contradictory objectives to support the organization's strategy. We investigated teams' goal orientation (in)congruence and its impact on task meaningfulness and, ultimately, performance, hypothesizing the potential pitfalls of teams simultaneously pursuing both learning‐ and performance‐goal orientations. Three‐wave, multisource data were collected from 109 teams at a large North American mortgage company. In a polynomial regression and response surface analytical framework, team task meaningfulness—and subsequent team performance—was enhanced when teams had greater divergence between their learning‐ and performance‐goal orientations but suffered when both goal orientations were more aligned. Our investigation thus revealed the potential pitfalls of teams simultaneously pursuing both learning‐ and performance‐goal orientations. We discuss the theoretical contributions of the team goal orientation incongruence effect substantiated in this study, as well as implications for practice and future research.
Through their eyes: Understanding institutional factors that impact the transfer processes of Black engineering students
Authors: Berhane Bruk , Buenaflor Shannon , Lee Eunsil , Liu Jingjing , Najera Gabriel
Published: July 2024

Background

The potential for broadening participation in engineering among Black undergraduates via transfer pathways is considerable, given their large share of the community college population. By understanding the opportunities and challenges presented within the context of transfer, this potential can be realized.

Purpose/hypothesis

The goal of this study is to explore ways in which Black students who transitioned from a community college to a 4‐year engineering program describe the institutional factors affecting their transfer processes.

Design/method

Drawing from a 3‐year qualitative research study involving approximately 27 Black engineering transfer students at a large, predominantly White, institution, we present data derived through interviews and focus groups with these undergraduates.

Results

Participants expressed that they benefited from supportive institutional agents who offered engineering transfer‐related resources. These included both faculty and advisors in their mostly Minority Serving Community Colleges (MSCCs) as well as advisors from the engineering college at the 4‐year institution. In addition, respondents described being part of a number of community college programs, including some for Black collegians, that offered resources for transfer. Nonetheless, some participants shared problems that emerged during the transfer process, including having to self‐navigate confusing transfer websites or self‐advocate to resolve erroneous admissions decisions.

Conclusions

We suggest a need to elevate MSCCs as learning environments that can produce future Black engineers. We also recommend a systems‐level approach that brings together community colleges and 4‐year institutions while also accounting for issues related to resources as well as power dynamics that students may encounter.
Long‐term posttransplant survival outcome following bridging locoregional therapy in hepatocellular carcinoma patients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Chuncharunee Alan , Oranratnachai Songporn , Chuncharunee Lancharat , Intaraprasong Pongphob , Thakkinstian Ammarin , Sobhonslidsuk Abhasnee
Published: July 2024

Aim

Liver transplantation (LT) is essential due to its curative efficacy, but liver‐graft shortages have limited its widespread application. Bridging locoregional therapy (LRT) before LT has been performed to prevent tumor progression, and a recent literature review revealed that it is associated with a nonsignificant trend toward better survival outcomes. However, much more information on bridging therapy has become available since then. This meta‐analysis aimed to compare the posttransplant survival and HCC recurrence between patients with and without pretransplant bridging LRT.

Methods

Studies were identified in MEDLINE, SCOPUS, and the Cochrane Library. Two independent researchers screened titles and full articles, extracted relevant data, and conducted a parametric survival analysis.

Results

Out of 4794 studies, 18 cohort studies were eligible. The 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year overall survival (OS) rates were 93.1%, 85.0%, and 79.1% for those in the bridging LRT group, while they were 91.8%, 81.1%, and 75.5% for those who did not receive LRT, respectively. There were no differences in overall survival between these groups (HR 0.90; 0.78–1.05, P = 0.17). Interestingly, we discovered that bridging therapy helped prolong survival significantly in a high‐risk population with a long waiting time (HR 0.76; 0.60–0.96, P = 0.02). Unfortunately, bridging LRT did not improve disease‐free survival (HR 0.98; 0.86–1.11, P = 0.70).

Conclusions

The results indicate that bridging LRT does not generally change post‐LT outcomes. However, bridging LRT can significantly improve survival in patients with a long waiting time for LT.
Cumulative phylogenetic, sequence and structural analysis of Insulin superfamily proteins provide unique structure‐function insights
Authors: Rao Shrilakshmi Sheshagiri , Kundapura Shankar V. , Dey Debayan , Palaniappan Chandrasekaran , Sekar Kanagaraj , Kulal Ananda , Ramagopal Udupi A.
Published: July 2024

The insulin superfamily proteins (ISPs), in particular, insulin, IGFs and relaxin proteins are key modulators of animal physiology. They are known to have evolved from the same ancestral gene and have diverged into proteins with varied sequences and distinct functions, but maintain a similar structural architecture stabilized by highly conserved disulphide bridges. The recent surge of sequence data and the structures of these proteins prompted a need for a comprehensive analysis, which connects the evolution of these sequences (427 sequences) in the light of available functional and structural information including representative complex structures of ISPs with their cognate receptors. This study reveals (a) unusually high sequence conservation of IGFs (>90 % conservation in 184 sequences) and provides a possible structure‐based rationale for such high sequence conservation; (b) provides an updated definition of the receptor‐binding signature motif of the functionally diverse relaxin family members (c) provides a probable non‐canonical C‐peptide cleavage site in a few insulin sequences. The high conservation of IGFs appears to represent a classic case of resistance to sequence diversity exerted by physiologically important interactions with multiple partners. We also propose a probable mechanism for C‐peptide cleavage in a few distinct insulin sequences and redefine the receptor‐binding signature motif of the relaxin family. Lastly, we provide a basis for minimally modified insulin mutants with potential therapeutic application, inspired by concomitant changes observed in other insulin superfamily protein members supported by molecular dynamics simulation.
Blame and obligation: The importance of libertarianism and political orientation in the public assessment of disinformation in the United States
Authors: Rauchfleisch Adrian , Jungherr Andreas
Published: July 2024

Disinformation concerns have heightened the importance of regulating content and speech in digital communication environments. Perceived risks have led to widespread public support for stricter control measures, even at the expense of individual speech rights. To better understand these preferences in the US context, we investigate public attitudes regarding blame for and obligation to address digital disinformation by drawing on political ideology, libertarian values, trust in societal actors, and issue salience. A manual content analysis of open‐ended survey responses in combination with an issue salience experiment shows that political orientation and trust in actors primarily drive blame attribution, while libertarianism predominantly informs whose obligation it is to stop the spread. Additionally, enhancing the salience of specific aspects of the issue can influence people's assessments of blame and obligation. Our findings reveal a range of attributions, underlining the need for careful balance in regulatory interventions. Additionally, we expose a gap in previous literature by demonstrating libertarianism's unique role vis‐à‐vis political orientation in the context of regulating content and speech in digital communication environments.
Evidence‐based prescribing in general practice: the practice‐based pharmacist's role
Authors: Carter Mary
Published: July 2024

Pharmacists are increasingly working in UK general practices, presenting an opportunity for practice teams to benefit from their additional professional skills and comprehensive knowledge of medicines. This article examines how pharmacists are helping to reduce inappropriate and inequitable prescribing in general practice and suggests ways in which their contribution can be optimised.
Optimal Cut‐Point Selection Methods Under Binary Classification When Subclasses Are Involved
Authors: Wang Jia , Tian Lili
Published: July 2024

In practice, we often encounter binary classification problems where both main classes consist of multiple subclasses. For example, in an ovarian cancer study where biomarkers were evaluated for their accuracy of distinguishing noncancer cases from cancer cases, the noncancer class consists of healthy subjects and benign cases, while the cancer class consists of subjects at both early and late stages. This article aims to provide a large number of optimal cut‐point selection methods for such setting. Furthermore, we also study confidence interval estimation of the optimal cut‐points. Simulation studies are carried out to explore the performance of the proposed cut‐point selection methods as well as confidence interval estimation methods. A real ovarian cancer data set is analyzed using the proposed methods.
Identification and mechanistic exploration of key anti‐inflammatory molecules in American ginseng: Impacts on signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 STAT3 phosphorylation and macrophage polarization
Authors: Li Taiping , Zhang Yougang , Dong Rong , Bi Wenjie , Wang Songsong , Zeng Kewu , Han Liwen
Published: July 2024

American ginseng (AG) has been reported to have anti‐inflammatory effects in many diseases, but the key molecules and mechanisms are unclear. This study aims to evaluate the anti‐inflammatory mechanism of AG and identify the key molecules by in vivo and in vitro models. Zebrafish was employed to assess the anti‐inflammatory properties of AG and the compounds. Metabolomics was utilized to identify potential anti‐inflammatory molecules in AG, while molecular dynamics simulations were conducted to forecast the interaction capabilities of these compounds with inflammatory targets. Additionally, macrophage cell was employed to investigate the anti‐inflammatory mechanisms of the key molecules in AG by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and western blotting. Seven potential anti‐inflammatory molecules were discovered in AG, with ginsenoside Rg1, ginsenoside Rs3 (G‐Rs3), and oleanolic acid exhibiting the strongest affinity for signal transducer and activator of transcription 3. These compounds demonstrated inhibitory effects on macrophage migration in zebrafish models and the ability to regulate ROS levels in both zebrafish and macrophages. The cell experiments found that ginsenoside Rg1, ginsenoside Rs3, and oleanolic acid could promote macrophage M2/M1 polarization ratio and inhibit phosphorylation overexpression of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3. This study revealed the key anti‐inflammatory molecules and mechanisms of AG, and provided new evidence of anti‐inflammatory for the scientific use of AG.
Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry determination of nicotine and cotinine in urine: A study of the effect of passive smoking
Authors: Krokos Adamantios , Orfanidis Amvrosios , Mastrogianni Orthodoxia , Mitsa Foteini , Avgeri Maria , Eboriadou Maria , Theodoridis Georgios , Raikos Nikolaos
Published: July 2024

Rationale

Recent data suggest that passive smoking has a risk comparable to active smoking. Passive smoking is considered dangerous in children and is suspected as a cause of asthma. However, some reports are opposing such claims, indicating the need for solid results and large‐scale studies. This scientific work aims to develop a method for the determination of nicotine (NCOT) and major nicotine's metabolite cotinine (COT) in urine samples, using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS).

Methods

Analysis was performed using a gas chromatograph Agilent Technologies 7890A with an MS 5975C inert XL, EI/CI MSD with Triple‐Axis detector. For sample preparation, liquid–liquid extraction was applied after an optimization study with different extraction media. Eventually, 1 mL of dichloromethane was selected for the extraction of 0.5 mL of urine. Suitable chromatographic conditions were found for the rapid and accurate determination of NCOT and COT. Injection of 2 μL was performed using GC–MS, and selected ion monitoring (SIM) analysis was performed with the following ions (m/z): 162 (quantifier ion) and 84, 133, 161 qualifier ions for NCOT, and 176 (quantifier ion) and 98, 118, 119, 147 qualifier ions for COT. Nicotine‐D4 (NCOT‐D4) and cotinine‐D3 (COT‐D3) were used as internal standards with quantifier ions 101 and 166, respectively. The retention time (Rt) for NCOT was 7.557 min and 9.743 min for COT.

Results

The method was validated following international principles, assessing characteristics such as absolute recovery, carryover, linearity, specificity, selectivity, accuracy, precision, and stability. The method showed a linear dynamic range from 0.5 to 50 ng/mL, and the limits of detection and quantification were for both NCOT and COT 0.2 and 0.5 ng/mL, respectively. Validation results were found satisfactory. Finally, the method was applied to the analysis of 60 clinical pediatric samples obtained from Aristotle University's pediatric clinic to check for possible exposure to smoke. Concentration levels ranged between 0.5 and 16.2 ng/mL for NCOT and between 1.0 and 25.1 ng/mL for COT.

Conclusions

A rapid, sensitive, accurate, and simple method was developed and used as a tool for the confirmation of passive smoking in children. It is the first method applied to the analysis of such samples belonging to nonsmokers of young age. The total runtime of the GC–MS analysis was short (20 min), and the pretreatment protocol was simple, giving the ability for analysis of a large number of samples on a daily routine basis.
Emerging 2D Ferromagnetism in Graphenized GdAlSi
Authors: Averyanov Dmitry V. , Sokolov Ivan S. , Taldenkov Alexander N. , Parfenov Oleg E. , Kondratev Oleg A. , Tokmachev Andrey M. , Storchak Vyacheslav G.
Published: July 2024

2D magnets are expected to give new insights into the fundamentals of magnetism, host novel quantum phases, and foster development of ultra‐compact spintronics. However, the scarcity of 2D magnets often makes a bottleneck in the research efforts, prompting the search for new magnetic systems and synthetic routes. Here, an unconventional approach is adopted to the problem, graphenization – stabilization of layered honeycomb materials in the 2D limit. Tetragonal GdAlSi, stable in the bulk, in ultrathin films gives way to its layered counterpart – graphene‐like anionic AlSi layers coupled to Gd cations. A series of inch‐scale films of layered GdAlSi on silicon is synthesized, down to a single monolayer, by molecular beam epitaxy. Graphenization induces an easy‐plane ferromagnetic order in GdAlSi. The magnetism is controlled by low magnetic fields, revealing its 2D nature. Remarkably, it exhibits a non‐monotonic evolution with the number of monolayers. The results provide a fresh platform for research on 2D magnets by design.
Recent Progress in MOF‐Aerogel Fabrication and Applications
Authors: Guo Tianyu , Mashhadimoslem Hossein , Choopani Leila , Salehi Mohammad Mehdi , Maleki Ali , Elkamel Ali , Yu Aiping , Zhang Qi , Song Junlong , Jin Yongcan , Rojas Orlando J.
Published: July 2024

Recent advancements in metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) underscore their significant potential in chemical and materials research, owing to their remarkable properties and diverse structures. Despite challenges like intrinsic brittleness, powdered crystalline nature, and limited stability impeding direct applications, MOF‐based aerogels have shown superior performance in various areas, particularly in water treatment and contaminant removal. This review highlights the latest progress in MOF‐based aerogels, with a focus on hybrid systems incorporating materials like graphene, carbon nanotube, silica, and cellulose in MOF aerogels, which enhance their functional properties. The manifold advantages of MOF‐based aerogels in energy storage, adsorption, and catalysis are discussed, with an emphasizing on their improved stability, processability, and ease of handling. This review aims to unlock the potential of MOF‐based aerogels and their real‐world applications. Aerogels are expected to reshape the technological landscape of MOFs through enhanced stability, adaptability, and efficiency.
Recording and Revealing 2.5D Nanopatterned Hidden Information on Silk Protein Bioresists
Authors: Lee Tae‐Yun , Choi Juwan , Lee Soohoon , Jeon Heonsu , Kim Sunghwan
Published: July 2024

Nanopatterning on biomaterials has attracted significant attention as it can lead to the development of biomedical devices capable of performing diagnostic and therapeutic functions while being biocompatible. Among various nanopatterning techniques, electron‐beam lithography (EBL) enables precise and versatile nanopatterning in desired shapes. Various biomaterials are successfully nanopatterned as bioresists by using EBL. However, the use of high‐energy electron beams (e‐beams) for high‐resolutive patterning has incorporated functional materials and has caused adverse effects on biomaterials. Moreover, the scattering of electrons not absorbed by the bioresist leads to proximity effects, thus deteriorating pattern quality. Herein, EBL‐based nanopatterning is reported by inducing molecular degradation of amorphous silk fibroin, followed by selectively inducing secondary structures. High‐resolution EBL nanopatterning is achievable, even at low‐energy e‐beam (5 keV) and low doses, as it minimizes the proximity effect and enables precise 2.5D nanopatterning via grayscale lithography. Additionally, integrating nanophotonic structures into fluorescent material‐containing silk allows for fluorescence amplification. Furthermore, this post‐exposure cross‐linking way indicates that the silk bioresist can maintain nanopatterned information stored in silk molecules in the amorphous state, utilizing for the secure storage of nanopatterned information as a security patch. Based on the fabrication technique, versatile biomaterial‐based nanodevices for biomedical applications can be envisioned.
A Dual‐Active Covalent Triazine Framework Film for Efficient Visible‐Light‐Driven Hydrogen Peroxide Production
Authors: Guo Yantong , Yang Xiaoju , Sun Ruixue , Hu Xunliang , Shu Chang , Yang Xuan , Gao Hui , Wang Xiaoyan , Tan Bien
Published: July 2024

Photocatalytic hydrogen peroxide production from water and oxygen offers a clean and sustainable alternative to the conventional energy‐intensive anthraquinone oxidation method. Compared to powdered covalent triazine frameworks (CTFs), the film morphology of CTFs provides better connectivity in 2D, yielding several advantages: more efficient connections between active sites, reduced electron‐hole pair recombination, increased resistance to superoxide radical induced corrosion, and decreased light scattering. Leveraging these benefits, it has incorporated dual active sites for both the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and the water oxidation reaction (WOR) into a CTF film system. This dual‐active CTF film demonstrated an exceptional hydrogen peroxide production rate of 19 460 µmol h⁻¹ m⁻2 after 1 h and 17 830 µmol h⁻¹ m⁻2 after 5 h under visible light irradiation (≥420 nm) without the need for sacrificial agents.
A Novel Hydrated Iron Vanadate Cathode Material for Advanced Aqueous Nickel‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhou Hongyan , Kuang Quan , Li Jianguo , Jin Yan , Li Yunbo , Fan Qinghua , Dong Youzhong , Zhao Yanming
Published: July 2024

Aqueous nickel‐ion batteries (ANIBs) as an emerging energy storage device attracted much attention owing to their multielectron redox reaction and dendrite‐free Ni anode, yet their development is hindered by the divalent properties of Ni2+ and the lack of suitable cathode materials. Herein, a hydrated iron vanadate (Fe2V3O10.5∙1.5H2O, FOH) with a preferred orientation along the (200) plane is innovatively proposed and used as cathode material for ANIBs. The FOH cathode exhibits a remarkable capacity of 129.3 mAh g−1 at 50 mA g−1 and a super‐high capacity retention of 95% at 500 mA g−1 after 700 cycles. The desirable Ni2+ storage capacity of FOH can be attributed to the preferentially oriented and tunnel structures, which offer abundant reaction active planes and a broad Ni2+ diffusion path, the abundant vacancies and high specific surface area further increase ion storage sites and accelerate ion diffusion in the FOH lattice. Furthermore, the Ni2+ storage mechanism and structural evolution in the FOH cathode are explored through ex situ XRD, ex situ Raman, ex situ XPS and other ex situ characteristics. This work opens a new way for designing novel cathode materials to promote the development of ANIBs.
Recent Progress in Synthetic and Biological Application of Diorganyl Diselenides
Authors: do Carmo Pinheiro Roberto , Souza Marques Luiza , Ten Kathen Jung Juliano , Nogueira Cristina Wayne , Zeni Gilson
Published: July 2024

Diorganyl diselenides have emerged as privileged structures because they are easy to prepare, have distinct reactivity, and have broad biological activity. They have also been used in the synthesis of natural products as an electrophile in the organoselenylation of aromatic systems and peptides, reductions of alkenes, and nucleophilic substitution. This review summarizes the advancements in methods for the transformations promoted by diorganyl diselenides in the main functions of organic chemistry. Parallel, it will also describe the main findings on pharmacology and toxicology of diorganyl diselenides, emphasizing anti‐inflammatory, hypoglycemic, chemotherapeutic, and antimicrobial activities. Therefore, an examination detailing the reactivity and biological characteristics of diorganyl diselenides provides valuable insights for academic researchers and industrial professionals.
Digital literacy in VU Libraries
Authors: Kennedy Cazembe , Johnson Zach
Published: July 2024

In this chapter, we explore the organizational units, projects, and support that exist for digital literacy within the Vanderbilt University Library system. We frame the chapter chronologically, starting with the efforts of the past, then moving toward the present efforts, and concluding with where future efforts are going.
Symptom profiles compatible with disorders of gut‐brain interaction (DGBI) in organic gastrointestinal diseases: A global population‐based study
Authors: van Gils Tom , Hreinsson Jóhann P. , Törnblom Hans , Tack Jan , Bangdiwala Shrikant I. , Palsson Olafur S. , Sperber Ami D. , Simrén Magnus
Published: July 2024

Background

Patients with organic gastrointestinal (GI) diseases and diabetes mellitus (DM) can have concomitant disorders of gut‐brain interaction (DGBI).

Objective

This study aimed to compare the global prevalence of DGBI‐compatible symptom profiles in adults with and without self‐reported organic GI diseases or DM.

Methods

Data were collected in a population‐based internet survey in 26 countries, the Rome Foundation Global Epidemiology Study (n = 54,127). Individuals were asked if they had been diagnosed by a doctor with gastroesophageal reflux disease, peptic ulcer, coeliac disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), diverticulitis, GI cancer or DM. Individuals not reporting the organic diagnosis of interest were included in the reference group. DGBI‐compatible symptom profiles were based on Rome IV diagnostic questions. Odds ratios (ORs [95% confidence interval]) were calculated using mixed logistic regression models.

Results

Having one of the investigated organic GI diseases was linked to having any DGBI‐compatible symptom profile ranging from OR 1.64 [1.33, 2.02] in GI cancer to OR 3.22 [2.80, 3.69] in IBD. Those associations were stronger than for DM, OR 1.26 [1.18, 1.35]. Strong links between organic GI diseases and DGBI‐compatible symptom profiles were seen for corresponding (e.g., IBD and bowel DGBI) and non‐corresponding (e.g., IBD and esophageal DGBI) anatomical regions. The strongest link was seen between fecal incontinence and coeliac disease, OR 6.94 [4.95, 9.73]. After adjusting for confounding factors, associations diminished, but persisted.

Conclusion

DGBI‐compatible symptom profiles are more common in individuals with self‐reported organic GI diseases and DM compared to the general population. The presence of these concomitant DGBIs should be considered in the management of organic (GI) diseases.
Dystocia management in a 1‐year‐old primiparous West African Dwarf Doe
Authors: Jeremiah Kelechi T. , Ogundipe Tolulope G. , Uzoka Ugonna H.
Published: July 2024

Dystocia or difficulty in parturition in a doe may need veterinary assistance for successful parturition. This is a case of dystocia in a 1‐year‐old primigravid West African Dwarf doe managed under free range. The dystocia was as a result of fetal mal‐positioning in which the right forelimb was extended while the left was flexed. Feto‐maternal disproportion also played a role in this case probably due to underdeveloped birth canal, as the doe was a primi. The dystocia was managed surgically, as all efforts to manage it conservatively proved futile. The doe made an uneventful recovery.
Preoperative metabolic syndrome and prognosis after pancreatectomy for pancreatic cancer: A retrospective study
Authors: Gu Fenglin , Shen Xiaoding , Wang Ziyao , Xie Zerong , Ke Nengwen
Published: July 2024

Background

We conducted a retrospective study to investigate the impact of metabolic syndrome (MetS), its individual components, and the number of metabolic risk factors on the prognosis of pancreatic cancer (PC) following pancreatectomy.

Methods

MetS was defined as meeting any three of the following criteria: (1) waist circumference ≥85 cm in men or ≥80 cm in women; (2) triglycerides ≥150 mg/dL or receiving drug treatment for elevated triglycerides; (3) high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol <40 mg/dL in men or <50 mg/dL in women or receiving drug treatment for reduced HDL‐C; (4) systolic blood pressure ≥130 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure ≥85 mmHg or receiving drug treatment for hypertension; and (5) fasting glucose, (FG) ≥100 mg/dL or receiving drug treatment for elevated glucose. The hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated by the Cox regression model.

Results

Six hundred and seven patients who underwent radical resection for PC were enrolled in this study. Among them, 352 patients presented with preoperative MetS. MetS was associated with shorter overall survival (OS) but not with shorter disease‐free survival (DFS). The adjusted HR (95% CI) for the poor OS in patients with 3, 4, and 5 metabolic risk components (vs. ≤ 2) were 1.32 (1.03–1.84), 1.64 (1.18–2.29), and 1.96 (1.27–3.04), respectively (p < 0.05). Elevated FG emerged as a significant predictor for poor OS and DFS.

Conclusions

This study highlights that preoperative MetS serves as a significant predictor for OS in patients with PC, with its predictive value escalating as the number of metabolic risk components increases.
Adrenal cysts less than 10 cm can be safely observed
Authors: Rodriguez Emily , Fedorova Tatiana , Daskam Maria , Baraban Ezra , Foote Darci C. , Salvatori Roberto , Singla Nirmish , Fishman Elliot K. , Chen Cardenas Stanley M. , Ball Douglas W. , Hamrahian Amir H. , Mathur Aarti , Morris‐Wiseman Lilah F.
Published: July 2024

Background

Adrenal cysts are rare and appropriate management is unclear due to a lack of data on their natural history. Understanding adrenal cyst growth patterns would assist in clinical management.

Methods

This single‐institution study included all adult patients diagnosed with simple adrenal cysts between 2004 and 2021. Baseline characteristics and outcomes of those who underwent resection (ADX) or observation (OBS) were compared using the chi‐squared test, student's t‐test, and Wilcoxon rank‐sum test. Growth curves and sensitivity analysis were plotted for all patients who had follow‐up imaging.

Results

We identified 77 patients with imaging‐confirmed adrenal cysts. The majority were female (75.3%) and more than half were white (55.8%). One‐third of patients underwent ADX, and the remaining were observed. ADX patients were younger (median age [IQR]: 55.5 y [45.0–68.2 y] vs. 44.2 y [38.7–55.0 y], p = 0.01) and more likely to be Hispanic (12% vs. 0%, p = 0.05). ADX patients presented with larger cysts (5.6 vs. 2.6 cm, p = 0.002). The median time from diagnosis to last follow‐up was 1.1 y for ADX and 4.1 y for OBS. Average growth for OBS was 0.3 cm/y, while average growth for ADX was 3.9 cm/y. In ADX patients, cysts >10 cm grew significantly faster than cysts <10 cm (median growth rate 13.2 cm/y vs. 0.3 cm/y, p < 0.05). There was no adrenal malignancy diagnosis, hyperfunctionality, or observation‐related complications (e.g., rupture).

Conclusion

While size >4–6 cm has guided surgical referral for solid adrenal masses, this study demonstrates a size threshold of 10 cm, below which asymptomatic, simple adrenal cysts can safely be observed.
A Bump Statistic on Permutations Resulting from the Robinson–Schensted Correspondence
Authors: Dukes Mark , Mullins Andrew
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we investigate a permutation statistic that was independently introduced by Romik (Funct Anal Appl 39(2):52–155, 2005). This statistic counts the number of bumps that occur during the execution of the Robinson–Schensted procedure when applied to a given permutation. We provide several interpretations of this bump statistic that include the tableaux shape and also as an extremal problem concerning permutations and increasing subsequences. Several aspects of this bump statistic are investigated from both structural and enumerative viewpoints.
Kardiale Kanalopathien im Kontext hereditärer Arrhythmiesyndrome
Authors: Huttelmaier Moritz T. , Fischer Thomas H.
Published: July 2024

Hereditäre Arrhythmiesyndrome sind seltene Erkrankungen, die allerdings im Kindes‑, Jugend- und jungen Erwachsenenalter eine häufige Ursache des plötzlichen Herztods darstellen. Grundsätzlich kann im Kontext genetischer Erkrankungen eine Unterscheidung zwischen Kanalopathien und Kardiomyopathien getroffen werden. Schwerpunkt der vorliegenden Arbeit sind die Kanalopathien Long- und Short-QT-Syndrom, Brugada-Syndrom sowie die katecholaminerge polymorphe ventrikuläre Tachykardie (CPVT). Eine frühzeitige Diagnose dieser Erkrankungen ist unerlässlich, lassen sich doch durch die medikamentöse Therapie, die Aufklärung über Verhaltensmaßnahmen und gegebenenfalls die Implantation eines Kardioverter-Defibrillators die Prognose und Lebensqualität der Patienten signifikant verbessern. Der Beitrag beleuchtet die pathophysiologischen und genetischen Grundlagen dieser Kanalopathien, beschreibt deren klinische Manifestation und kommentiert die Grundlagen für Diagnose, Risikostratifikation und Therapie.
Shadowgraph tomography of a high-pressure GDI spray
Authors: Lazzaro Maurizio , Alfuso Salvatore , Ianniello Roberto
Published: July 2024

An isooctane spray from a high-pressure multihole GDI injector (Bosch HDEV6) was characterised by means of optical extinction tomography, relying on collimated illumination by a focused shadowgraph setup. The tests were carried out in air under ambient conditions at an injection pressure of 300 bar. Spray images were acquired over a 180-degree angular range in 1-degree increments. The critical issues of optical extinction tomography of sprays, related to the strong light extinction by the dense liquid core of fuel jets, were addressed. To mitigate artefacts arising from the reconstruction process, the extinction data were subjected to spatially-variant filtering steps for both raw and post-log data before being analytically inverted through the inverse Radon transform. This approach made it possible to process extinction data at very large optical depths. A nearly complete three-dimensional reconstruction of the spray was obtained, providing significant details of the spray morphology and the internal structure of the jets throughout spray development. Different phases of the atomization process, from the near-field to the far-field regions of the spray, were observed.
Silencing of ultradian rhythms and metabolic depression during spontaneous daily torpor in Djungarian hamsters
Authors: Heldmaier Gerhard , Braulke Luzie , Flick Johanna , Ruf Thomas
Published: July 2024

Ultradian rhythms of metabolism, body temperature and activity are attenuated or disappear completely during torpor in Djungarian hamsters, for all three ultradian periodicities (URsmall, URmedium and URlarge). URsmall and URmedium disappear during entrance into torpor, whereas URlarge disappear later or continue with a low amplitude. This suggests a tight functional link between torpor and the expression of ultradian rhythms, i.e. torpor is achieved by suppression of metabolic rate as well as silencing of ultradian rhythms. Spontaneous torpor is often initiated after an ultradian burst of activity and metabolic rate, beginning with a period of motionless rest and accompanied by a decrease of metabolic rate and body temperature. To extend previous findings on the potential role of the adrenergic system on torpor induction we analysed the influence of the ß3-adrenergic agonist Mirabegron on torpor in Djungarian hamsters, as compared to the influence of the ß-adrenergic antagonist Propranolol. Hamsters were implanted with 10 day release pellets of Mirabegron (0.06 mg day−1) or Propranolol (0.3 mg day−1). Mirabegron transiently supressed and accelerated ultradian rhythms but had no effect on torpor behaviour. Propranolol did not affect torpor behaviour nor the expression of ultradian rhythms with the dosage applied during this study.
HIV-associated rectovaginal fistulae in children: a single-centre retrospective study in the antiretroviral era
Authors: Alberti Piero , Westgarth-Taylor Christopher , Trovalusci Emanuele , Charlton Robyn , Brisighelli Giulia
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Acquired rectovaginal fistulae (RVF) are a complication of paediatric HIV infection. We report our experience with the surgical management of this condition.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the records of paediatric patients with HIV-associated RVF managed at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital (2011–2023). Information about HIV management, surgical history, and long-term outcomes was collected.

Results

Ten patients with HIV-associated RVF were identified. Median age of presentation was 2 years (IQR: 1–3 years). Nine patients (9/10) underwent diverting colostomy, while one demised before the stoma was fashioned. Fistula repair was performed a median of 17 months (IQR: 7.5–55 months) after colostomy. An ischiorectal fat pad was interposed in 5/9 patients. Four (4/9) patients had fistula recurrence, 2/9 patients developed anal stenosis, and 3/9 perineal sepsis. Stoma reversal was performed a median of 16 months (IQR: 3–25 months) after repair. Seven patients (7/9) have good outcomes without soiling, while 2/9 have long-term stomas. Failure to maintain viral suppression after repair was significantly associated with fistula recurrence and complications (φ = 0.8, p < 0.05).

Conclusion

While HIV-associated RVFs remain a challenging condition, successful surgical treatment is possible. Viral suppression is a necessary condition for good outcomes.
Therapeutic management of peritonsillar abscess during COVID-19
Authors: Cidlinsky Natascha , Arndt Tim Tobias , Schiele Stefan , Thölken Rubens , Treutlein Eric , Müller Gernot , Zenk Johannes , Doescher Johannes
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdown policies in Germany on frequency and treatment of peritonsillar abscess at a tertiary referral center in Germany.

Methods

This retrospective case-control study analyzed all cases of peritonsillar abscess treated from 03/01/2018 until 08/30/2022 at Augsburg ENT University Hospital, Germany, through abscess tonsillectomy and/ or incisional drainage. Data was collected and correlated to Covid-19 Stringency Index using codes based on the Institute for Hospital Remuneration System in Germany. After excluding 303 cases, 975 abscess tonsillectomy and incisional drainage cases were studied, with the first German lockdown serving as cutoff date. Treatment algorithm was maintained regardless of co-infection with Covid-19.

Results

A total of 174 patients received abscess tonsillectomy as therapy, while 801 patients underwent incisional drainage. Before the first German lockdown, 452 patients received incisional drainage. Since the pandemic, 349 cases of incisional drainage were registered (OR = 0.54, 95%-CI [0.27–0.86], p = 0.04), despite no significant change in the percentage of peritonsillar abscess of all ENT emergencies. The mean age at presentation with PTA was 39.8 years, and the rate of relapse was 4.0%. The study found no association between the scale of policy measures and treatment (OR = 1.00, 95%-CI [0.99–1.01], p = 0.52).

Conclusion

The results indicate that, despite the reduction in capacities due to Covid-19, the proportion of patients with peritonsillar abscess treated through abscess tonsillectomy increased at Augsburg ENT University Hospital since the first German lockdown. Hospitalization times could still be reduced with comparable relapse rates.
Evaluation of peripheral blood inflammatory biomarkers in sickle cell disease with and without retinopathy
Authors: Özer Ömer , Doğan Levent , Baysal Zeki , Basir Hakan , Çıftçı Ali Türker , Eröz Pınar , Güçlü Emin Serbülent
Published: July 2024

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical significance of blood-cell associated inflammation markers in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) and sickle cell retinopathy (SCR).

Methods

Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR), monocyte to lymphocyte ratio (MLR), systemic immune inflammation index (SIII), systemic inflammation response index (SIRI), systemic inflammation modulation index (SIMI) and aggregate systemic inflammation index (AISI) were calculated. This study included 45 healthy controls (Group 1) and 100 SCD (Group 2). Patients in Group 2 were then divided into two groups: without SCR (Group 3) and with SCR (Group 4), and patients with SCR (Group 4) were further divided into two groups: non-proliferative sickle cell retinopathy (NPSCR) (Group 5) and proliferative sickle cell retinopathy (PSCR) (Group 6).

Results

The mean values for NLR, PLR, SIII, SIRI, AISI, and SIMI were significantly higher in Group 2 compared to Group 1 (p = 0.011 for NLR, p = 0.004 for SIII, and p < 0.001 for others). Furthermore, AISI and SIMI parameters demonstrated statistically significant discriminatory power to distinguish Group 5 from Group 6 (p = 0.0016 and p = 0.0006, respectively).

Conclusion

Given the critical role of inflammatory mechanisms in the pathogenesis of SCD and its related complications, the assessment of blood-cell-associated inflammatory markers may present a pragmatic and advantageous approach to the clinical oversight and therapeutic intervention of SCD.
Similar genetic profile in early and late stage urothelial tract cancer
Authors: Stormoen Dag Rune , Rohrberg Kristoffer Staal , Mouw Kent William , Ørum Katrine , Szallasi Zoltan , Rossing Maria , Bagger Frederik Otzen , Pappot Helle
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Urothelial tract cancer (UTC) ranks as the tenth most prevalent cancer and holds the seventh position in terms of mortality worldwide. Despite its prevalence and mortality ranking, there are still gaps in the knowledge of the mutational landscape in patients with advanced disease who have limited therapeutic options after multiple lines of prior treatment. This study compares the genomic and transcriptomic landscape, and targeted treatment options between metastatic UTC (mUTC) patients treated with multiple lines of therapy compared to newly diagnosed, untreated Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer (MIBC).

Methods

We compared genomic and clinical data from two cohorts: mUTC patients who received multiple lines of therapy and were referred to the Copenhagen Prospective Personalized Oncology (CoPPO) project at Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen. Data for MIBC UTC patients were acquired from the Cancer Genome Atlas Bladder Cancer (TCGA BLCA) cohort. Biopsies in CoPPO were performed at the time of enrollment. 523 highly important cancer-related genes (TrueSight Oncology-500 targeted sequencing panel) were used from both cohorts for comparative analysis. Analyses included RNA count data to compare predicted molecular subtypes in each cohort separately.

Results

Patients from the CoPPO cohort had a lower median age at first-line treatment than the TCGA BLCA cohort, with no significant gender disparity. The predominant histology was urothelial cell carcinoma in both cohorts. Genomic analysis revealed no significant difference between the top mutated genes in the two cohorts, specifically looking into DNA damage repair genes. Molecular subtyping indicated a higher frequency of neuroendocrine differentiation in the CoPPO cohort. 13% of patients in the CoPPO cohort received targeted therapy based on genomic findings, and 16% received non-targeted treatment, totaling 29% receiving CoPPO treatment (9 patients). The remaining 71% received best supportive care. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed a non-significant survival benefit for the intervention group in the CoPPO cohort.

Conclusion

When focusing on 523 highly relevant cancer genes, the mutational profile of mUTC patients who have undergone numerous treatment lines resembles that of newly diagnosed MIBC. These alterations can be targeted, indicating the potential advantage of early genomic testing for personalized treatment within clinical trials.
Robotic liver parenchymal transection using the SynchroSeal
Authors: Pilz da Cunha Gabriela , De Meyere Celine , D’Hondt Mathieu , Swijnenburg Rutger-Jan
Published: July 2024

Background

There is much heterogeneity in the instrumentation used for parenchymal transection in minimally invasive liver surgery. Instruments specifically designed for robotic parenchymal transection of the liver are lacking. We aim to gain insight into the safety and effectiveness of the SynchroSeal (Intuitive Surgical, Inc., Sunnyvale, CA), a novel bipolar electrosurgical device, in the context of liver surgery.

Methods

The present study is a post-hoc analysis of prospectively collected data from patients undergoing robotic liver resection (RLR) using the SynchroSeal in two high-volume centres. The results of the SynchroSeal were compared with that of the previous generation bipolar-sealer; Vessel Sealer Extend (Intuitive Surgical, Inc., Sunnyvale, CA) using propensity score matching, after excluding the first 25 Vessel Sealer procedures per center.

Results

During the study period (February 2020–March 2023), 155 RLRs meeting the eligibility criteria were performed with the SynchroSeal (after implementation in June 2021) and 145 RLRs with the Vessel Sealer. Excellent outcomes were achieved when performing parenchymal transection with the SynchroSeal; low conversion rate (n = 1, 0.6%), small amounts of intraoperative blood loss (median 40 mL [IQR 10–100]), short hospital stays (median 3 days [IQR 2–4]), and adequate overall morbidity (19.4%) as well as severe morbidity (11.0%). In a matched comparison (n = 94 vs n = 94), the SynchroSeal was associated with less intraoperative blood loss (48 mL [IQR 10–143] vs 95 mL [IQR 30–200], p = 0.032) compared to the Vessel Sealer. Other perioperative outcomes were similar between the devices.

Conclusion

The SynchroSeal is a safe and effective device for robotic liver parenchymal transection.
Smoothed semicovariance estimation for portfolio selection
Authors: Ferrari Davide , Paterlini Sandra , Rigamonti Andrea , Weissensteiner Alex
Published: July 2024

Downside risk measures, such as semivariance, are essential for evaluating investment risk. Focusing on semivariance allows investors to emphasize loss mitigation without considering upside volatility as risk. However, minimizing the semivariance of a portfolio is an analytically intractable and numerically challenging problem due to the endogeneity of the parameters in the semicovariance matrix. We introduce a methodology for consistent estimation of the portfolio semivariance based on a smooth approximation of the empirical semicovariance matrix. Differently from existing methods, the new estimator does not rely on biased surrogate semicovariance models and enables the treatment of large problems with many assets. The extent of smoothing is determined by a single tuning constant, which allows our method to span an entire set of optimal portfolios with limit cases represented by the minimum semivariance and the minimum variance portfolios. The methodology is implemented through an iteratively reweighted algorithm, which is computationally efficient for high-dimensional problems with many assets. Our numerical studies confirm the theoretical convergence of the smoothed semivariance estimator to the traditional sample semivariance. The resulting minimum smoothed semivariance portfolio performs well in- and out-of-sample compared to other popular selection rules.
Hypoglycemia and Alzheimer Disease Risk: The Possible Role of Dasiglucagon
Authors: Ali Naif H. , Al-Kuraishy Hayder M. , Al-Gareeb Ali I. , Hadi Najah R. , Assiri Abdullah A. , Alrouji Mohammed , Welson Nermeen N. , Alexiou Athanasios , Papadakis Marios , Batiha Gaber El-Saber
Published: July 2024

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by memory impairment and cognitive dysfunctions. It has been shown that hypoglycemia can adversely affect AD neuropathology. It is well-known that chronic hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes (T2D) is regarded as a potential risk factor for the development and progression of AD. However, the effect of recurrent hypoglycemia on the pathogenesis of AD was not deeply discussed, and how recurrent hypoglycemia affects AD at cellular and molecular levels was not intensely interpreted by the previous studies. The underlying mechanisms for hypoglycaemia-induced AD are diverse such as endothelial dysfunction, thrombosis, and neuronal injury that causing tau protein hyperphosphorylation and the accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) in the brain neurons. Of note, the glucagon hormone, which controls blood glucose, can also regulate the cognitive functions. Glucagon increases blood glucose by antagonizing the metabolic effect of insulin. Therefore, glucagon, through attenuation of hypoglycemia, may prevent AD neuropathology. Glucagon/GLP-1 has been shown to promote synaptogenesis, hippocampal synaptic plasticity, and learning and memory, while attenuating amyloid and tau pathologies. Therefore, activation of glucagon receptors in the brain may reduce AD neuropathology. A recent glucagon receptor agonist dasiglucagon which used in the management of hypoglycemia may be effective in preventing hypoglycemia and AD neuropathology. This review aims to discuss the potential role of dasiglucagon in treating hypoglycemia in AD, and how this drug reduce AD neuropathology.