bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
P﻿raktische Anleitung zur Implantation nicht-transvenöser ICD-Systeme
Authors: Duncker David , Albert Karolin , Rillig Andreas , Sommer Philipp , Heeger Christian-Hendrik , Gunawardene Melanie , Rolf Sascha , Jansen Henning , Estner Heidi , Althoff Till , Maurer Tilman , Tilz Roland , Iden Leon , Johnson Victoria , Steven Daniel
Published: August 2024

Als Alternative zu transvenösen ICD-Systemen sind aktuell zwei nichttransvenöse ICD-Systeme verfügbar: Der seit einigen Jahren etablierte subkutane ICD (S-ICD) verfügt über eine prästernale Elektrode, die subkutan implantiert wird und die eine Schockfunktion sowie in begrenztem Umfang auch eine Post-Schock-Stimulation bietet. Außerdem ist in Europa seit 2023 der extravaskuläre ICD (EV-ICD) erhältlich, welcher ebenfalls ohne transvenöse Elektroden auskommt und die Möglichkeit bietet, Patienten mit einer antibradykarden und antitachykarden Stimulation in Kombination mit einer herkömmlichen ICD-Funktion zu versorgen. Bei diesem Device erfolgt die Elektrodenimplantation substernal. Erste Implantationsergebnisse sind im Hinblick auf Sicherheit und Effektivität vielversprechend. Beide Systeme umgehen einige mögliche Komplikationen transvenöser Elektroden. Dieser Artikel soll eine praktische Übersicht der Implantationsschritte und möglicher Komplikationen geben.
Olfactory training: perspective from people who were disturbed by their smell problems
Authors: Li Zetian , Pellegrino Robert , Kelly Christine , Hummel Thomas
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Olfactory training (OT) is an effective and affordable option in the treatment of olfactory dysfunction. Despite significant progress in the field in recent years, some factors influencing OT participation remain unclear.

Methods

Based on an anonymous online survey orchestrated by AbScent.org the present study enrolled 450 participants and divided them into OT (n = 161) and No OT (n = 289) groups based on their OT participation. Participants also provided information on demographics, medical history, quality of life, OT duration for those who engaged in OT, and the reasons for non-participation in OT among those who did not.

Results

Patients who had greater loss of quality of life participated more in OT. Similarly, more participation was observed in patients who noticed an improvement in their ability to smell. Notably, most of the sample engaged in OT trained less than four weeks (73%). In the No OT group, the primary barrier to OT participation was the unawareness of OT treatment (37%) and these barriers differed by age, where older people expressed interest but were unaware of OT treatment, while younger individuals exhibited more cautiousness about its effectiveness.

Conclusion

Lower quality of life drives active OT participation. Limited training periods and unawareness of OT serve as potential barriers to olfactory recovery. Clinicians should actively promote the background of OT and underscore the significance of adhering to the “prescribed” training regimen.
Disability trajectories by progression independent of relapse activity status differ in pediatric, adult and late-onset multiple sclerosis
Authors: Simone Marta , Lucisano Giuseppe , Guerra Tommaso , Paolicelli Damiano , Rocca Maria A. , Brescia Morra Vincenzo , Patti Francesco , Annovazzi Pietro , Gasperini Claudio , De Luca Giovanna , Ferraro Diana , Margari Lucia , Granella Franco , Pozzilli Carlo , Romano Silvia , Perini Paola , Bergamaschi Roberto , Coniglio Maria Gabriella , Lus Giacomo , Vianello Marika , Lugaresi Alessandra , Portaccio Emilio , Filippi Massimo , Amato Maria Pia , Iaffaldano Pietro ,   the Italian Multiple Sclerosis Register
Published: August 2024

Background

To compare Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) trajectories over time between Multiple Sclerosis (MS) groups with pediatric (POMS), adult (AOMS) and late (LOMS) onset, and between patients with and without progression independent of relapse activity (PIRA).

Methods

Patients with a first visit within 1 year from onset, ≥ 5-year follow-up and ≥ 1 visit every 6 months were selected from the Italian MS Register. Adjusted disability trajectories were assessed by longitudinal models for repeated measures. Comparisons between groups and between patients with and without PIRA in subgroups were performed by evaluating the yearly differences of mean EDSS score changes versus baseline (delta-EDSS).

A first CDA event was defined as a 6-months confirmed disability increase from study baseline, measured by EDSS (increase ≥ 1.5 points with baseline EDSS = 0; ≥ 1.0 with baseline EDSS score ≤ 5.0 and ≥ 0.5 point with baseline EDSS > 5.5).

PIRA was defined as a CDA event occurring more than 90 days after and more than 30 days before the onset of a relapse.

Results

3777 MS patients (268 POMS, 3282 AOMS, 227 LOMS) were included. The slope of disability trajectories significantly diverged in AOMS vs POMS starting from the second year of follow-up (Year 2: delta2-EDSS 0.18 (0.05; 0.31), p = 0.0054) and then mean delta2-EDSS gradually increased up to 0.23 (0.07; 0.39, p = 0.004) at year 5. Patients with PIRA had significant (p < 0.0001) steeper increase in EDSS scores than those without PIRA in all groups, although in POMS, the disability trajectories began to diverge later and at a lesser extent with delta-EDSS score of 0.48 vs 0.83 in AOMS and 1.57 in LOMS, at 3 years after the first PIRA.

Conclusions

Age is relevant in determining disability progression in MS. POMS shows a less steep increase in EDSS scores over time than older patients. The effect of PIRA in accelerating EDSS progression is less pronounced in POMS than in AOMS and LOMS.
Association between vitamin D level and cataract: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Jue Zhenzhen , Xu Ziming , Yuen Vincent L. , Chan Odessa Dik San , Yam Jason C.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The association between serum vitamin D level and cataract remains controversial. This study aims to evaluate the association between vitamin D level and cataract.

Methods

In this study, articles in the PubMed, Web of Science, and EMBASE databases were searched up to 30 August 2023 and 626 articles were screened. Four studies involving a total of 10,928 subjects with cataract and 10,117 control subjects met the inclusion criteria.

Results

Decreased serum vitamin D level was associated with higher incidence of cataract (P = 0.047; MD: -4.87; 95%CI: [-9.67, -0.07]). In the subgroup analysis by sex, a significant association was found between serum vitamin D level and cataract in both male (P = 0.01, MD: -2.15,95%CI: [-3.83, -0.46]) and female (P < 0.01; MD: -6.67,95%CI: [-8.20, -5.14]).In the subgroup analysis by the types of cataract, significant association was found between serum vitamin D level and nuclear (P < 0.01; MD: -10.48; 95%CI: [-12.72, -8.24]) and posterior subcapsular cataract (P = 0.02; MD: -6.05; 95%CI: [-11.30, -0.80]) but not in cortical cataract (P = 0.14; MD: -6.74; 95%CI: [-15.70, 2.22]).

Conclusion

This meta-analysis revealed potential association between serum vitamin D level and cataract, more significant in female, and the subtypes of nuclear and posterior subcapsular cataract.
Scoping review for the SAGES EAES joint collaborative on sustainability in surgical practice
Authors: Huo Bright , Eussen M. M. M. , Marconi Stefania , Johnson Shaneeta M. , Francis Nader , Oslock Wendelyn M. , Marfo Nana , Potapov Oleksii , Bello Ricardo J. , Lim Robert B. , Vandeberg Jonathan , Hall Ryan P. , EdM Adnan Alseidi M. D. , Sanchez-Casalongue Manuel , Alimi Yewande R. , Pietrabissa Andrea , Arezzo Alberto , Frountzas Maximos , Bellato Vittoria , Barach Paul , Rems Miran , Nijihawan Sheetal , Sathe Tejas S. , Miller Benjamin , Samreen Sarah , Chung Jimmy , Bouvy N. D. , Sylla Patricia
Published: August 2024

Background

Surgical care in the operating room (OR) contributes one-third of the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in healthcare. The European Association of Endoscopic Surgery (EAES) and the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) initiated a joint Task Force to promote sustainability within minimally invasive gastrointestinal surgery.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted by searching MEDLINE via Ovid, Embase via Elsevier, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Scopus on August 25th, 2023 to identify articles reporting on the impact of gastrointestinal surgical care on the environment. The objectives were to establish the terminology, outcome measures, and scope associated with sustainable surgical practice. Quantitative data were summarized using descriptive statistics.

Results

We screened 22,439 articles to identify 85 articles relevant to anesthesia, general surgical practice, and gastrointestinal surgery. There were 58/85 (68.2%) cohort studies and 12/85 (14.1%) Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) studies. The most commonly measured outcomes were kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalents (kg CO2eq), cost of resource consumption in US dollars or euros, surgical waste in kg, water consumption in liters, and energy consumption in kilowatt-hours. Surgical waste production and the use of anesthetic gases were among the largest contributors to the climate impact of surgical practice. Educational initiatives to educate surgical staff on the climate impact of surgery, recycling programs, and strategies to restrict the use of noxious anesthetic gases had the highest impact in reducing the carbon footprint of surgical care. Establishing green teams with multidisciplinary champions is an effective strategy to initiate a sustainability program in gastrointestinal surgery.

Conclusion

This review establishes standard terminology and outcome measures used to define the environmental footprint of surgical practices. Impactful initiatives to achieve sustainability in surgical practice will require education and multidisciplinary collaborations among key stakeholders including surgeons, researchers, operating room staff, hospital managers, industry partners, and policymakers.
Diet and physical activity advice for colorectal cancer survivors: critical synthesis of public-facing guidance
Authors: Fretwell Anna , Dobson Christina , Orange Samuel T. , Corfe Bernard M.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Colorectal cancer (CRC) survivors report that diet and physical activity guidance from healthcare professionals following discharge from care is limited. Survivors seek advice from alternative sources. This study critically synthesised the English language diet and physical activity guidance available online for CRC survivors.

Methods

We conducted an internet search to identify national cancer organisations (NCO) in countries with high CRC incidence rates. We searched NCO website content for guidance related to diet and physical activity. Recommendations were categorised by cancer phase (prevention/survivorship), cancer type, and the intended outcome (health or cancer-control–CRC recurrence/CRC-specific mortality). A synthesised guideline was derived from recommendations consistently made by at least half of the sources.

Results

We identified 12 NCOs from six countries, by whom 27 diet and physical activity recommendations were made. For CRC prevention, over 80% of recommendations were aimed at improving cancer-control outcomes. For CRC survivorship, less than 40% of recommendations were aimed at improving cancer-control outcomes. Physical activity was the only recommendation present on more than 50% of NCO websites aimed at improving cancer-control outcomes for CRC survivorship.

Conclusion

Diet and physical activity guidance for CRC survivors on NCO websites is limited and primarily based on recommendations for improving general health, not improving cancer-control outcomes. NCO websites frequently refer survivors to primary prevention guidance, potentially reflecting the lack of evidence specific to CRC survivorship. There is a need for diet and physical activity advice for survivors that is evidence-based, comprehensive, and consistent across organisations and tailored to specific cancer sites.
Gene pointNet for tumor classification
Authors: Lu Hao , Rezapour Mostafa , Baha Haseebullah , Niazi Muhammad Khalid Khan , Narayanan Aarthi , Gurcan Metin Nafi
Published: August 2024

The rising incidence of cancer underscores the imperative for innovative diagnostic and prognostic methodologies. This study delves into the potential of RNA-Seq gene expression data to enhance cancer classification accuracy. Introducing a pioneering approach, we model gene expression data as point clouds, capitalizing on the data's intrinsic properties to bolster classification performance. Utilizing PointNet, a typical technique for processing point cloud data, as our framework's cornerstone, we incorporate inductive biases pertinent to gene expression and pathways. This integration markedly elevates model efficacy, culminating in developing an end-to-end deep learning classifier with an accuracy rate surpassing 99%. Our findings not only illuminate the capabilities of AI-driven models in the realm of oncology but also highlight the criticality of acknowledging biological dataset nuances in model design. This research provides insights into application of deep learning in medical science, setting the stage for further innovation in cancer classification through sophisticated biological data analysis. The source code for our study is accessible at: https://github.com/cialab/GPNet.
Effectiveness assessment and simulation of a wearable guiding device for ship evacuation
Authors: Braidotti Luca , Bertagna Serena , Bucci Vittorio , Marino’ Alberto
Published: August 2024

The evacuation of a modern passenger ship is a challenging task which might be hindered by a complex ship’s internal layout and/or the blocking of escape routes due to fire/flooding. In this work, the application of mobile technology to reduce travel time is investigated. A pilot system has been developed and tested on the RoPax ship GNV Bridge. It is composed of a server and a mobile application running on wearable smartbands. The guidance and localisation of devices have been carried out through Bluetooth beacons. A test area has been identified on GNV Bridge including 2 cabins corridors on deck 6 and the main lounge on deck 5. The corridors and the lounge are connected by three staircases, defining three alternative escape routes starting from cabins and arriving at the muster station in the main lounge. In the trials, the escape routes have been randomly blocked to assess the reduction of travel time achieved providing guidance through wearable devices to a sample population. It resulted in a 16.9% reduction in travel time. Besides, a strategy to simulate with a certified tool the effect of a guiding system has been defined. This is essential to make trials’ results transferable in different environments (e.g., other RoPax or cruise ships). In particular, experimental data coming from the trials have been used to assess agents’ speed reduction rate due to mobile device consultation. Although available experimental data were limited by the pandemic, the 2.5% agent’s speed reduction applicable to simulations has been assessed as most probable.
Machine learning augmented branch and bound for mixed integer linear programming
Authors: Scavuzzo Lara , Aardal Karen , Lodi Andrea , Yorke-Smith Neil
Published: August 2024

Mixed Integer Linear Programming (MILP) is a pillar of mathematical optimization that offers a powerful modeling language for a wide range of applications. The main engine for solving MILPs is the branch-and-bound algorithm. Adding to the enormous algorithmic progress in MILP solving of the past decades, in more recent years there has been an explosive development in the use of machine learning for enhancing all main tasks involved in the branch-and-bound algorithm. These include primal heuristics, branching, cutting planes, node selection and solver configuration decisions. This article presents a survey of such approaches, addressing the vision of integration of machine learning and mathematical optimization as complementary technologies, and how this integration can benefit MILP solving. In particular, we give detailed attention to machine learning algorithms that automatically optimize some metric of branch-and-bound efficiency. We also address appropriate MILP representations, benchmarks and software tools used in the context of applying learning algorithms.
The effects of dabrafenib and/or trametinib treatment in Braf V600-mutant glioma: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Lei Jun , Liu Yanhui , Fan Yingjun
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dabrafenib and/or trametinib therapy in BRAF v600-mutant glioma treatment. PubMed, the Cochrane Library, EMBASE and Web of Science were searched from inception to Sep 2023. Inclusion criteria were designed based on the PICO principle to select relevant articles. Search keywords included ‘dabrafenib’, ‘trametinib’, ‘glioma’ and other related keywords. Outcomes included overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), adverse events (AEs), and death events. Methodological index for non-randomized studies (MINORS) was used to assess the methodological quality. Stata 14.0 was selected to perform the Cochrane Q and I2 statistics to test the heterogeneity among all studies. As for publication bias assessment and sensitivity analysis, the funnel plot, Egger regression test, Begg test, and trim and fill method were selected. Including 8 studies for meta-analysis. The pooled results of the single-arm trials showed that the median PFS and median OS after treatment were 6.10 months and 22.73 months, respectively. Notably, this study found a high incidence of AEs and death events of 50% and 43% after treatment. All the above findings were statistically significant. Also, this study statistically supported the advantage of disease response improvement after the combination therapy in BRAF v600-mutant glioma patients, which were shown as a pooled rate of PR (30%), a pooled rate of CR (18%), and a pooled rate of ORR (39%). And the AE rate was lower in the monotherapy group (AE: 25%) than in the combination treatment group (AE: 60%). Sensitivity analysis indicated that all the results were robust. Based on current literature outcomes, dabrafenib and/or trametinib may lead to the median PFS of 6.10 months and median OS as 22.73 months for BRAF v600-mutant glioma patients, and the safety of monotherapy is better than that of combination therapy. This conclusion needs to be treated with caution and further verified.
The (In)visibilisation of Gypsies, Roma, and Travellers in higher education equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) initiatives in England and Wales
Authors: Morgan Julia , Marsh Hazel , Clark Colin
Published: August 2024

Gypsies, Roma and Travellers are under-represented as students in higher education in England and Wales. Moreover, the communities rarely feature in equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) strategies and practices including race equality initiatives. Drawing upon the reflections and experiences of 14 equality, diversity and inclusion staff across 11 universities (7 post-1992 and 4 pre-1992) in England and Wales, we explore the technologies through which Gypsies, Roma and Travellers are made (in)visible in university EDI discursive spaces. Interview participants included Gypsy, Roma and Traveller academics; subject librarians; Deans of EDI; Widening Participation Managers; Inclusion and Equality Advisors and Managers; and Researchers and Leads on Race Equality Charters and Decolonising the Curriculum. Through inductively analysing our findings, we suggest that the normalisation of neoliberalism across the higher education academy in England and Wales has resulted in Gypsies, Roma and Travellers being constructed as ‘irregular’ in higher education EDI discourse. We demonstrate how neoliberal-informed discursive rules, acting as ‘systems of exclusion’, control what is seen as a legitimate concern and support higher education institutions to intentionally ‘look through’ inequality issues affecting the communities. Informational difficulties, institutional focus on ‘value for money’ and numbers of students which prioritise the market-driven ‘business case’ over social justice, act as technologies of invisibilisation, positioning these diverse communities as not being ‘within the true’ in relation to institutional neoliberal discourses and ‘regimes of truth’. This culminates in ‘institutional inertia’ and neglect towards EDI issues, further contributing to the under-representation of Gypsies, Roma and Travellers in higher education.
Constant returns-to-scale production technologies with fixed ratio inputs and outputs
Authors: Olesen Ole Bent , Papaioannou Grammatoula , Podinovski Victor V.
Published: August 2024

In practical applications of data envelopment analysis, inputs and outputs are often stated as ratio measures, including various percentages and proportions characterizing the production process. Such ratio measures are inconsistent with the basic assumptions of convexity and scalability required by the conventional variable and constant returns-to-scale (VRS and CRS) models. This issue has been addressed by the development of the Ratio-VRS (R-VRS) and Ratio-CRS (R-CRS) models of technology, both of which can incorporate volume and ratio inputs and outputs. In this paper, we provide a detailed standalone development of the special case of the R-CRS technology, referred to as the F-CRS technology, in which all ratio inputs and outputs are of the fixed type. Such ratio measures can be used to represent environmental and quality characteristics of the production process that stay constant while simultaneously allowing the scaling of the volume of production. We illustrate the use of the F-CRS technology by an application in the context of school education.
Hydrotreated vegetable oil migrates through soil and degrades faster than fossil diesel and hydrotreated vegetable oil-fossil diesel blend
Authors: Lahti-Leikas Katariina , Niemistö Emilia , Talvenmäki Harri , Saartama Niina , Sun Yan , Mercier Léon , Romantschuk Martin
Published: August 2024

HVO has been noted as a more sustainable fuel, not only leading to lower total CO2 emissions, but also resulting in lower emissions of toxic substances upon fuel burning. The environmental impact of HVO and HVO diesel blends when accidentally spilled into the soil and ground water has, however, received little attention. While HVO and diesel exhibit nearly identical viscosity and density, their behavior in soils differs due to varying water solubility and fuel additives. In laboratory- and pilot-scale soil columns and lysimeters, we compared the migration and biostimulation-enhanced degradation of HVO, HVO-diesel blend (HVO15), and fossil diesel over 120 days. Additionally, we investigated the impact of fuel additives on migration by comparing HVO without additives to HVO15 and diesel in wet and dry soil columns over 21 days. Notably, HVO migrated through soil more rapidly and in greater quantities than diesel. In wet soil, 69% of added HVO, 8.4% of HVO15, and 21% of diesel leached through as light non-aqueous phase liquid (LNAPL). Dry soil showed smaller differences in fuel migration, but HVO did not mobilize when water was added, unlike HVO15 and diesel. Biostimulation reduced HVO leaching by 15% more than HVO15 and 48% more than diesel. Overall, HVO’s behavior in soil differs significantly from fossil diesel, with factors like lower water solubility, reduced mobilization from dry soil, and higher in situ degradability contributing to its reduced environmental risk compared to fossil fuel alternatives in accident scenarios.
Induction With and Without Natural Properties: a New Approach to the New Riddle of Induction
Authors: Thorn Paul D. , Schurz Gerhard
Published: August 2024

Drawing on past work, we introduce a new approach to the New Riddle of Induction, showing that the inductive projection of gruesome properties is unreliable under particular ideal conditions that are sufficient for the reliable inductive projection of non-gruesome properties. As an auxiliary to our account, we introduce rules for resolving conflicts between background information and the conclusions of otherwise reliable inductive inferences. Our approach to the New Riddle of Induction is quite permissive in the range of properties it recognizes as suitable for inductive projection, allowing for the inductive projection of highly gerrymandered non-natural properties. However, as an addendum to our discussion of the New Riddle, we show that natural properties do form a more reliable basis for inductive projection in cases where one’s sample is small.
Striving to learn and feeling well? The effects of students’ achievement goal-orientation on their psychological and physical well-being over one school year
Authors: Hoferichter Frances , Schlesier Juliane
Published: August 2024

Students’ motivation and well-being are not only highly relevant for success at school, they also facilitate students’ inherent growth, optimal functioning, and health. However, both motivation and well-being tend to decline over the school year, presenting a risk for students’ academic achievement and health. Although both constructs are closely related, longitudinal evidence of their relationship is still lacking. Following achievement goal theory and the broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions, it is the goal of the current study to explore how achievement goal-orientation is related to students’ physical and psychological well-being. A total of 733 seventh- and eighth-grade students (MAge = 14.73, SD = 0.69; 52% girls) participated in the study, completing the questionnaire once at the beginning and again at the end of the school year. By applying path analysis in Mplus, this study shows that students who tend to exhibit an avoidance goal orientation at the beginning of the school year tend to report lower levels of psychological and physical well-being at the end of the school year. Students who exhibit appearance performance approach goals reported higher levels of physical well-being at the end of the school year. Results also indicate that boys tend to report higher physical and psychological well-being at both time points.
Effectiveness of Pelvic Floor Muscle and Education-Based Therapies on Bladder, Bowel, Vaginal, Sexual, Psychological Function, Quality of Life, and Pelvic Floor Muscle Function in Females Treated for Gynecological Cancer: A Systematic Review
Authors: Cyr Marie-Pierre , Jones Tamara , Brennen Robyn , Colombage Udari , Frawley Helena C.
Published: August 2024

Purpose of Review

Gynecological malignancies are prevalent in females, and this population is likely to experience symptoms of pelvic floor disorders and sexual dysfunction. Non-surgical, non-pharmaceutical conservative therapies, namely pelvic floor muscle (PFM) therapies and education-based interventions, could be beneficial for this population. The purpose of this systematic review was to examine the evidence regarding their effectiveness on bladder, bowel, vaginal, sexual, psychological function, quality of life, and PFM function in gynecological cancer populations.

Recent Findings

Six databases were searched to identify studies employing any interventional study design, except case studies, to investigate the effect of PFM therapies, education-based interventions, or combined therapies on any outcome of interest. The search yielded 4467 results, from which 20 studies were included. Of these, 11 (55%) were RCTs, two (10%) were non-RCTs with two groups, and seven (35%) were non-RCTs with a single group. Findings suggest that combined (multimodal) therapies, specifically PFM (active > passive) + education therapies, appear more effective for vaginal, overall pelvic floor, sexual, and PFM function. PFM therapies (active and/or electrostimulation) may improve bladder outcomes. Limited evidence suggests PFM (active) + education therapies may improve bowel function. Conservative therapies may improve psychological function, although available data do not appear to favor a particular therapy. Given the conflicting findings regarding quality of life, no clear conclusions can be made. Interpretation of findings highlighted the importance of intervention dosage, adherence, and supervision for optimal effectiveness. Despite the limitations of the included studies, this review provides new and valuable insights for future research and clinical practice.
Neuroprotective Effects of VGLUT1 Inhibition in HT22 Cells Overexpressing VGLUT1 Under Oxygen Glucose Deprivation Conditions
Authors: Pomierny B. , Krzyżanowska W. , Skórkowska A. , Budziszewska B. , Pera J.
Published: August 2024

Glutamate (Glu) is a major excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain, essential for synaptic plasticity, neuronal activity, and memory formation. However, its dysregulation leads to excitotoxicity, implicated in neurodegenerative diseases and brain ischemia. Vesicular glutamate transporters (VGLUTs) regulate Glu loading into synaptic vesicles, crucial for maintaining optimal extracellular Glu levels. This study investigates the neuroprotective effects of VGLUT1 inhibition in HT22 cells overexpressing VGLUT1 under oxygen glucose deprivation (OGD) conditions. HT22 cells, a hippocampal neuron model, were transduced with lentiviral vectors to overexpress VGLUT1. Cells were subjected to OGD, with pre-incubation of Chicago Sky Blue 6B (CSB6B), an unspecific VGLUT inhibitor. Cell viability, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, mitochondrial membrane potential, and hypoxia-related protein markers (PARP1, AIF, NLRP3) were assessed. Results indicated that VGLUT1 overexpression increased vulnerability to OGD, evidenced by higher LDH release and reduced cell viability. CSB6B treatment improved cell viability and reduced LDH release in OGD conditions, particularly at 0.1 μM and 1.0 μM concentrations. Moreover, CSB6B preserved mitochondrial membrane potential and decreased levels of PARP1, AIF, and NLRP3 proteins, suggesting neuroprotective effects through mitigating excitotoxicity. This study demonstrates that VGLUT1 inhibition could be a promising therapeutic strategy for ischemic brain injury, warranting further investigation into selective VGLUT1 inhibitors.
Effects of Argon in the Acute Phase of Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in an Endovascular Perforation Model in Rats
Authors: Krenzlin Harald , Wesp Dominik M. A. , Korinek Anika A. E. , Ubbens Henning , Volland Jakob , Masomi-Bornwasser Julia , Weber Katharina J. , Mole Dominik , Sommer Clemens , Ringel Florian , Alessandri Beat , Keric Naureen
Published: August 2024

Background

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a devastating disease with high morbidity and mortality. Neuroprotective effects of the noble gas argon have been shown in animal models of ischemia. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of argon in the immediate early phase of SAH in a rat model.

Methods

A total of 19 male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to three treatment groups. SAH was induced using a endovascular filament perforation model. Cerebral blood flow, mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), and body temperature were measured continuously. Group A received 2 h of ventilation by 50% argon/50% O2 (n = 7) immediately following SAH. Group B underwent a sham operation and was also ventilated by 50% argon/50% O2 (n = 6). Group C underwent SAH and 50% O2/50% N2 ventilation (n = 6). Preoperative and postoperative neurological and behavioral testing were performed. Histology and immunohistochemistry were used to evaluate the extent of brain injury and vasospasm.

Results

The cerebral blood flow dropped in both treatment groups after SAH induction (SAH, 63.0 ± 11.6% of baseline; SAH + argon, 80.2 ± 8.2% of baseline). During SAH, MAP increased (135.2 ± 10.5%) compared with baseline values (85.8 ± 26.0 mm Hg) and normalized thereafter. MAP in both groups showed no significant differences (p = 0.3123). Immunohistochemical staining for neuronal nuclear antigen demonstrated a decrease of hippocampal immunoreactivity after SAH in the cornu ammonis region (CA) 1–3 compared with baseline hippocampal immunoreactivity (p = 0.0127). Animals in the argon-ventilated group showed less neuronal loss compared with untreated SAH animals (p < 0.0001). Ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1 staining showed a decreased accumulation after SAH + argon (CA1, 2.57 ± 2.35%; CA2, 1.89 ± 1.89%; CA3, 2.19 ± 1.99%; DG, 2.6 ± 2.24%) compared with untreated SAH animals (CA1, 5.48 ± 2.39%; CA2, 4.85 ± 4.06%; CA3, 4.22 ± 3.01%; dentate gyrus (DG), 3.82 ± 3.23%; p = 0.0007). The neuroscore assessment revealed no treatment benefit after SAH compared with baseline (p = 0.385).

Conclusion

In the present study, neuroprotective effects of argon occurred early after SAH. Because neurological deterioration was similar in the preadministration and absence of argon, it remains uncertain if neuroprotective effects translate in improved outcome over time.
Maladaptive daydreaming as emotion regulation strategy: exploring the association with emotion regulation, psychological symptoms, and negative problem-solving orientation
Authors: Mancinelli Elisa , Spisto Sara , Sukhija Vinay Jagdish , Salcuni Silvia
Published: August 2024

Maladaptive Daydreaming (MD) is a dysfunctional mental activity characterized by an excessive immersion in fantasy, whose function is being increasingly discussed and investigated. Accordingly, this study aims to examine its function as an emotion regulation strategy among MDers by evaluating the pattern of associations among MD, emotion regulation (ER) difficulties, anxiety, depression, stress symptoms, and negative problem-solving orientation. The mediating role of MD level in the association between difficulties in ER and both the psychological distress variables and negative problem-solving orientation was evaluated. N = 252 MDers, aged 18–70 years (Mage = 30.63, SD = 11.40, 84.1% females), participated in the study and completed self-report measures. Some unexpected results emerged: among difficulties in ER’s dimensions, only lack of emotional self-awareness negatively and significantly associated with all symptom variables; solely difficulty pursuing goals when experiencing negative emotions and reduced trust in one’s capacity to self-regulate positively and significantly correlated with MD. MD negatively correlated with depression, anxiety, and negative problem-solving orientation. Three mediation models showed the mediating role of MD in reducing the negative effect of difficulty pursuing goals when experiencing negative emotions on both anxiety and negative problem-solving orientation and of trust in one’s capacity to self-regulate on negative problem-solving orientation. Overall, findings seem to point to functional peculiarities among MDers and support the view of MD as an emotion regulation strategy allowing the management and reduction of negative emotions and negative perceptions of problem situations. Notwithstanding, further research evaluating the potential moderating role of MD-specific fantasies is warranted. Unexpected findings are discussed.
Sponsored senior computers never happened – a 20-year perspective on ICT deployment of healthcare at home!
Authors: Sjöqvist Bengt Arne , Ask Per , Hägglund Sture , Pettersson Nils-Erik , Olsson Jan
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The article studies the utilization of ICT within healthcare at home in Sweden overlooking a perspective of 20 + years. Starting point are articles by the authors from 2002 and 2003. These outlined an already feasible ICT supported healthcare at home as a tool to address healthcare’s identified challenges—a growing elderly population and general demand for more healthcare in combination with issues on financing and lack of human resources. Despite early signals the care transition has been unexpectedly slow. Why?

Methods

With the articles as take-off the journey for ICT based healthcare at home up to today is discussed. In the articles five areas considered as critical for a successful transition were pinpointed and are now used to support the authors considerations, reasoning, and conclusions.

Results

Results indicate that technology has never been a limiting factor. Nor has selected medical issues or expected benefits normally been a limitation. Instead limitations and hindrances are found in other areas and activities.

Conclusions

Technology is not the main challenge when it comes to implementation, instead a focus on business models, deployment, and scaling issues is now advocated. Initiatives also must make more use of gained knowledge and experience. Not doing so delays utilization and deployment. The impact on healthcare effects and expected savings may be over-optimistic. A thorough analysis of all associated costs, consequences, investments, and benefits is recommended. Non-digital alternatives must continue to be offered to these who cannot go digital. In communication improved medical outcome and patient satisfaction must be emphasised.
Utilizing Zebrafish Embryos for Replication of Tulane Virus: A Human Norovirus Surrogate
Authors: Chandran Sahaana , Gibson Kristen E.
Published: August 2024

The zebrafish larvae/embryo model has been shown to support the replication of seven strains (G1.7[P7], GII.2[P16], GII.3[P16], GII.4[P4], GII.4[P16], GII.6[P7], and GII.17[P13]) of human norovirus (HuNoV). However, due to challenges in consistently obtaining HuNoV-positive stool samples from clinical sources, evaluating HuNoV surrogates in this model is highly valuable. This study assesses the potential of zebrafish embryos and larvae as a model for Tulane virus (TuV) replication. Three infection methods were examined: microinjection, immersion, and feeding. Droplet digital PCR was used to quantify viral RNA across all three infection methods. Microinjection of 3 nL of TuV into zebrafish embryos (< 6-h post-fertilization) resulted in significant replication, with viral RNA levels reaching 6.22 logs at 4-day post-infection. In contrast, the immersion method showed no replication after immersing 4-day post-fertilization (dpf) larvae in TuV suspension for 6 h. Similarly, no replication was observed with the feeding method, where Paramecium caudatum loaded with TuV were fed to 4 dpf larvae. The findings indicate that the zebrafish embryo model supports TuV replication through the microinjection method, suggesting that TuV may serve as a useful surrogate for studying HuNoV pathogenesis. Additionally, TuV can be utilized in place of HuNoV in method optimization studies using the zebrafish embryo model, circumventing the limited availability of HuNoV.
Improved Comparison Theorems for the Oscillation of Even Order Delay Differential Equations and their Applications
Authors: Moaaz Osama , Ramos Higinio
Published: August 2024

In this work, only two independent conditions for the oscillation of all solutions of even-order delay differential equations in the non-canonical case are established. Using comparison techniques with first- and second-order delay differential equations, we obtain easy-to-apply criteria that improve previous results in the literature. In addition, we show the importance of our results by applying them to examples that have been frequently used in related works.
Application of magnetic data and satellite spectral imaging in identifying gold mineralization zones and its associated subsurface structures at Fawakheir-Attala area, Central Eastern Desert, Egypt
Authors: Saleh Ahmed , Gabr Safwat S.
Published: August 2024

The Fawakheir-Attala gold mining zone in Egypt’s Central Eastern Desert features a diverse range of rock formations, including Precambrian crystalline rocks and Phanerozoic sedimentary formations. These formations encompass gneisses, metavolcanics, metasediments, a metagabbro-diorite complex, Dokhan volcanic rocks, and granitic rocks, alongside lower and upper Nubia sandstones. Faults and shear zones are pivotal in controlling gold mineralization within the area, indicative of substantial mineral wealth. This study aimed to map subsurface structural characteristics and investigate gold mineralization zones using aerial magnetic data and ASTER remote sensing, the latter of which played a crucial role in highlighting the surface exposure of alteration zones. Geological surveys combined with remote sensing techniques were employed to identify rock types and mineralization zones, while magnetic methods, including aeromagnetic surveys and ground-based studies, were used to reveal underlying structural properties and fault systems. Analysis of aeromagnetic data revealed a large mineralization zone running from the Fawakhir Gold mine through the Attala Gold mine in a NW–SE direction. Various structural trends and faults, including NW–SE, NE–SW, E–W, and N–S directions, were identified, strongly associated with hydrothermal alteration zones and gold mineralization. Shallow basement relief was observed in the eastern and central regions, contrasting with deeper formations and greater relief in the western section. Land magnetic surveys were utilized to identify new areas for gold mineralization, with geochemical analysis confirming gold content in quartz veins and host rocks. The integration of magnetic and remote sensing techniques effectively highlighted alteration zones indicative of potential mineralization, which could have a subsurface continuation, aiding in the identification of gold occurrences connected to faults, lineaments, and mineralization zones.
In vitro glycemic index, acrylamide content, and some physicochemical and sensorial properties of special dried bread (Peksimet) enriched with einkorn wheat (Tiriticum monococcum L.) flour
Authors: Yuksel Ferhat , Çağlar Sümeyye
Published: August 2024

In the present study, einkorn wheat flour (Tiriticum monococcum L.) was incorporated into a special dried bread (peksimet) formulation produced from sourdough breads at different concentrations (0–10–20–30–40 and 50 g 100 g−1) and some physicochemical and nutritional (total dietary fiber, resistant starch, glycemic index, acrylamide content) characteristics and sensory properties of the samples were investigated. The total dietary fiber content of the bread samples ranged from 3.00 to 6.17 g 100 g−1. The highest acrylamide content (247.54 µg/kg) was obtained using an einkorn flour level of 40 g 100 g−1. Einkorn wheat flour resulted in a significant decrease (from 94.61 to 89.23) in the glycemic index level of the bread samples (p < 0.05). Bread enriched with einkorn wheat flour (50.0 g 100 g−1) received the highest overall acceptability score. In conclusion, einkorn wheat flour could be used in a special dried bread formulation to enhance its nutritional quality.
Fabrication of 3D printed mutable drug delivery devices: a comparative study of volumetric and digital light processing printing
Authors: Oh Ye Chan , Ong Jun Jie , Alfassam Haya , Díaz-Torres Eduardo , Goyanes Alvaro , Williams Gareth R. , Basit Abdul W.
Published: August 2024

Mutable devices and dosage forms have the capacity to dynamically transform dimensionally, morphologically and mechanically upon exposure to non-mechanical external triggers. By leveraging these controllable transformations, these systems can be used as minimally invasive alternatives to implants and residence devices, foregoing the need for complex surgeries or endoscopies. 4D printing, the fabrication of 3D-printed structures that evolve their shape, properties, or functionality in response to stimuli over time, allows the production of such devices. This study explores the potential of volumetric printing, a novel vat photopolymerisation technology capable of ultra-rapid printing speeds, by comparing its performance against established digital light processing (DLP) printing in fabricating hydrogel-based drug-eluting devices. Six hydrogel formulations consisting of 2-(acryloyloxy)ethyl]trimethylammonium chloride solution, lithium phenyl-2,4,6-trimethylbenzoylphosphinate, varying molecular weights of the crosslinking monomer, poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate, and paracetamol as a model drug were prepared for both vat photopolymerisation technologies. Comprehensive studies were conducted to investigate the swelling and water sorption profiles, drug release kinetics, and physicochemical properties of each formulation. Expandable drug-eluting 4D devices were successfully fabricated within 7.5 s using volumetric printing and were shown to display equivalent drug release kinetics to prints created using DLP printing, demonstrating drug release, swelling, and water sorption properties equivalent to or better than those of DLP-printed devices. The reported findings shed light on the advantages and limitations of each technology for creating these dynamic drug delivery systems and provides a direct comparison between the two technologies, while highlighting the promising potential of volumetric printing and further expanding the growing repertoire of pharmaceutical printing.

Graphical Abstract
Unlocking the potential of digital twins to achieve sustainability in seaports: the state of practice and future outlook
Authors: Homayouni S. Mahdi , Pinho de Sousa Jorge , Moreira Marques Catarina
Published: August 2024

This paper examines the role of digital twins (DTs) in promoting sustainability within seaport operations and logistics. DTs have emerged as promising tools for enhancing seaport performance. Despite the recognized potential of DTs in seaports, there is a paucity of research on their practical implementation and impact on seaport sustainability. Through a systematic literature review, this study seeks to elucidate how DTs contribute to the sustainability of seaports and to identify future research and practical applications. We reviewed and categorized 68 conceptual and practical digital applications into ten core areas that effectively support economic, social, and environmental objectives in seaports. Furthermore, this paper proposes five preliminary potential applications for DTs where practical implementations are currently lacking. The primary findings indicate that DTs can enhance seaport sustainability by facilitating real-time monitoring and decision-making, improving safety and security, optimizing resource utilization, enhancing collaboration and communication, and supporting the development of the seaport ecosystem. Additionally, this study addresses the challenges associated with DT implementation, including high costs, conflicting stakeholder priorities, data quality and availability, and model validation. The paper concludes with a discussion of the implications for seaport managers and policymakers.
Factors for innovation adoption by ports: a systematic literature review
Authors: Sooprayen Krishna , Van de Kaa Geerten , Pruyn Jeroen F. J.
Published: August 2024

This paper investigates the factors influencing innovation adoption in ports by conducting a systematic literature review and proposes a comprehensive framework for understanding the process of innovation adoption. The maritime sector is a typical example of a business-to-business market, whereas the information technology industry is an example of a business-to-consumer market. We show that factors for innovation adoption applicable to a business-to-consumer market are also relevant to a business-to-business market. The factors that were found relate to the adopting port’s characteristics and include know-how, organization support, organizational structure, financial capacity, a port’s network embeddedness, and risk-taking. Furthermore, they concern the characteristics of the innovation such as the costs, relative advantage, complexity, compatibility, trialability, and observability. Finally, stakeholder pressures were identified relating to the customer, competitive port, regulatory bodies, and society.