bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Midline suprapineal pseudocyst in brain of fetuses with open spina bifida
Authors: Kunpalin Y. , Sichitiu J. , Krishan P. , Blaser S. , Shannon P. , Van Mieghem T. , Shinar S.
Published: April 2023

Objectives

Recently, it was noted that fetuses with open spina bifida (OSB) may have a midline cystic structure evident on ultrasound. Our aims were to determine the prevalence of this cystic structure, shed light on its pathophysiology and investigate the association between its presence and other characteristic brain findings in fetuses with OSB.

Methods

This was a single‐center retrospective study of all fetuses with OSB and available cineloop images in the axial plane referred to the Ontario Fetal Centre, Toronto, Canada, between June 2017 and May 2022. Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data obtained between 18 + 0 and 25 + 6 weeks were reviewed in search of a midline cystic structure. Pregnancy and lesion characteristics were collected. Transcerebellar diameter (TCD), clivus–supraocciput angle (CSA) and additional brain abnormalities (abnormal cavum septi pellucidi (CSP), abnormal corpus callosum (CC) and periventricular nodular heterotopia (PNH)) were assessed. In cases ofin‐uterorepair, imaging findings were reviewed postoperatively. In cases of termination, neuropathological findings were reviewed, if available.

Results

Of 76 fetuses with OSB, 56 (73.7%) had a suprapineal cystic structure on ultrasound. The percentage of agreement between ultrasound and MRI detection was 91.5% (Cohen's kappa coefficient, 0.78 (95% CI, 0.57–0.98)). Brain autopsy in terminated cases revealed a dilatation of the posterior third ventricle, with redundant tela choroidea and arachnoid forming the membranous roof of the third ventricle, anterior and superior to the pineal gland. A cyst wall could not be identified, indicating that the structure was a pseudocyst. The presence of the pseudocyst was associated with a smaller CSA (pseudocyst absent, 62.11 ± 9.60°vspseudocyst present, 52.71 ± 8.22°;P = 0.04). When the pseudocyst was present, its area was correlated inversely with TCD (r, −0.28 (95% CI, −0.51 to −0.02);P = 0.04). Fetal surgery did not have any impact on the growth rate of the pseudocyst (fetal surgery, 5.07 ± 3.29 mm2/weekvsexpectant management, 4.35 ± 3.17 mm2/week;P = 0.58). The presence of the pseudocyst was not associated with abnormal CSP, CC or presence of PNH. None of the cases with available postnatal follow‐up required surgical procedure related to the pseudocyst.

Conclusions

Approximately 75% of all OSB cases have a suprapineal pseudocyst. Its presence is associated with the degree of hindbrain herniation but not with abnormalities of the CSP and CC or presence of PNH. Thus, it should not be regarded as additional brain pathology and should not preclude fetuses from undergoing fetal surgery for OSB. © 2023 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Gut microbiota-mediated associations of green tea and catechin intakes with glucose metabolism in individuals without type 2 diabetes mellitus: a four-season observational study with mediation analysis
Authors: Ito Aoi , Matsui Yuji , Takeshita Masao , Katashima Mitsuhiro , Goto Chiho , Kuriki Kiyonori
Published: April 2023

This four-season observational study aimed to examine the mediating role of the gut microbiota in the associations between green tea and catechin intakes and glucose metabolism in individuals without type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In each of the 4 seasons, 85 individuals without T2DM (56 male [65.9%]; mean [standard deviation] age: 43.3 [9.4] years) provided blood samples, stool samples, 3-day weighed dietary records, and green tea samples. Catechin intake was estimated by analyzing the tea samples. Linear mixed-effects model analysis showed that green tea intake was negatively associated with fasting blood glucose and insulin levels, even after considering the seasonal variations. Of the gut microbial species associated with green tea intake, the mediation analysis revealed that Phocaeicola vulgatus mediated the association between green tea intake and fasting blood glucose levels. These findings indicate that green tea can improve glucose metabolism by decreasing the abundance of P. vulgatus that is associated with elevated blood glucose levels in individuals without T2DM.
Radioligand therapies in cancer: mapping the educational landscape in Europe
Authors: Bugani Valentina , Battistelli Luca , Sansovini Maddalena , Monti Manuela , Paganelli Giovanni , Gich Ignasi , Flotats Albert , Erba Paola Anna , Blay Jean-Yves , la Fougère Christian , Van Poppel Hendrik , Charalambous Andreas , Herrmann Ken , Giordano Alessandro , Györke Tamás , Deroose Christophe , Matteucci Federica , Carrió Ignasi
Published: April 2023

Aim

We performed a systematic survey to assess the existing gaps in Europe in multidisciplinary education for integration of radioligand therapy (RLT) into cancer care and to obtain detailed information on the current limitations and key contents relevant.

Methods

A high-quality questionnaire, with emphasis on survey scales, formulation, and validity of the different items, was designed. An expert validation process was undertaken. The survey was circulated among medical specialties involved in cancer treatment, universities, and nursing organizations. Questionnaires (156) were distributed, and 95 responses received.

Results

Sevety-eight percent of medical societies indicated that training in RLT was very important and 12% important. Eighty-eight percent indicated that their specialty training program included RLT. Twenty-six percent were satisfied with the existing structure of training in RLTs. Ninety-four percent indicated that the existing training is based on theory and hands-on experience. Main identified limitations were lack of centers ready to train and of personnel available for teaching. Sixty-five percent indicated that national programs could be expanded. Fifty percent of consulted universities indicated partial or scarce presence of RLT contents in their teaching programs. In 26% of the cases, the students do not have the chance to visit a RLT facility. A large majority of the universities are interested in further expansion of RLT contents in their curriculums. Nursing organizations almost never (44.4%) or occasionally (33.3%) include RLT contents in the education of nurses and technologists. Hands-on experience is almost never (38%) and sometimes (38%) offered. However, 67% of centers indicated high interest in expanding RLT contents.

Conclusion

Centers involved recognize the importance of the training and indicate a need for inclusion of additional clinical content, imaging analysis, and interpretation as well as extended hands-on training. A concerted effort to adapt current programs and a shift towards multidisciplinary training programs is necessary for proper education in RLT in Europe.
Application of Doehlert design in optimizing the solid-state hydrogenogenic stage augmented with biomass fly ash in a two-stage biohythane production process
Authors: Alavi-Borazjani Seyedeh Azadeh , de Faria Gomes Helena Gil Martins , da Cruz Tarelho Luís António , Capela Maria Isabel
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to optimize the solid-state hydrogenogenic stage supplemented with biomass fly ash in a two-stage anaerobic digestion (AD) process for biohythane production from the organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW). Doehlert’s experimental design was used to obtain the optimal set of two investigated variables, namely total solids (TS) content and biomass fly ash dosage in the defined ranges of 0–20 g/L and 20–40%, respectively. Applying the optimal conditions of TS content (29.1%) and fly ash dosage (19.2 g/L) in the first stage led not only to a total H2 yield of 95 mL/gVSadded, which was very close to the maximum H2 yield predicted by the developed model (97 mL/gVSadded), but also to a high CH4 yield of 400 mL/gVSadded (76% of the theoretical CH4 yield). Moreover, the biohythane obtained from the optimized two-stage process met the standards of a biohythane fuel with an H2 content of 19% v/v.
The role of integrated psychological support in breast cancer patients: a randomized monocentric prospective study evaluating the Fil-Rouge Integrated Psycho-Oncological Support (FRIPOS) program
Authors: Civilotti Cristina , Lucchini Diana , Fogazzi Gianluca , Palmieri Fabrizio , Benenati Alice , Buffoli Alberto , Girardi Veronica , Ruzzenenti Nella , Di Betta Alessia , Donarelli Edoardo , Veglia Fabio , Di Fini Giulia , Gandino Gabriella
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This study examined the effects of Fil-Rouge Integrated Psycho-Oncological Support (FRIPOS) in a group of women with breast cancer compared with a group receiving treatment as usual (TAU).

Methods

The research design was a randomized, monocentric, prospective study with three time points of data collection: after the preoperative phase (T0), in the initial phase of treatments (T1), and 3 months after the start of treatments (T2). The FRIPOS group (N = 103) and the TAU group (N = 79) completed a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Symptom Checklist-90-R (SCL-90-R) at T0; the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Quality of Life Questionnaire (QLQ) C30 and EORTC QLQ-BR23 at T1; and SCL-90-R, EORTC QLQ-C30, and EORTC QLQ-BR23 at T2.

Results

A series of independent and paired t tests showed that patients in the FRIPOS group performed better on all scales related to symptomatic manifestations and on some quality of life scales (fatigue, dyspnea, and sleep disturbances) at T2. In addition, a series of ten multiple regressions were performed to predict each SCL subscale at T2 from the SCL score at T0 and the EORTC QLQ-C30 scores at T2. In nine of ten regression models (all except somatization), both FRIPOS group membership and QoL subscale contributed significantly to prediction.

Conclusions

This study suggests that patients in the FRIPOS group have more benefits in emotional, psychological, and collateral symptoms than patients in the TAU group and that these improvements are due to integrated psycho-oncology care.
Incentives for prosocial behavior under reputation persistence and policy lags
Authors: Candel-Sánchez Francisco , Perote-Peña Juan
Published: April 2023

In this paper we show that a policy based on incentives to promote prosocial activities can be counterproductive in a context where the agents’ reputation exhibits persistence over time and there exists a time lag between announcement of the policy and implementation. Reputation persistence in our model means that the reputation gained in past periods constrains the possibilities of changing reputation in the future. We present a two-period model in which agents use prosocial activities to signal their degree of altruism. If a subsidy is established for the second period, the set of agents that undertake social activities in that period enlarges. This worsens the reputation of the most altruistic agents, some of whom then react by decreasing their involvement in prosocial activities in the first period. We identify a condition under which subsidies cause a decrease in the global supply of pro-social activities.
Post-revascularization Ejection Fraction Prediction for Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Based on Myocardial Perfusion SPECT Imaging Radiomics: a Preliminary Machine Learning Study
Authors: Mohebi Mobin , Amini Mehdi , Alemzadeh-Ansari Mohammad Javad , Alizadehasl Azin , Rajabi Ahmad Bitarafan , Shiri Isaac , Zaidi Habib , Orooji Mahdi
Published: April 2023

In this study, the ability of radiomics features extracted from myocardial perfusion imaging with SPECT (MPI-SPECT) was investigated for the prediction of ejection fraction (EF) post-percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) treatment. A total of 52 patients who had undergone pre-PCI MPI-SPECT were enrolled in this study. After normalization of the images, features were extracted from the left ventricle, initially automatically segmented by k-means and active contour methods, and finally edited and approved by an expert radiologist. More than 1700 2D and 3D radiomics features were extracted from each patient’s scan. A cross-combination of three feature selections and seven classifier methods was implemented. Three classes of no or dis-improvement (class 1), improved EF from 0 to 5% (class 2), and improved EF over 5% (class 3) were predicted by using tenfold cross-validation. Lastly, the models were evaluated based on accuracy, AUC, sensitivity, specificity, precision, and F-score. Neighborhood component analysis (NCA) selected the most predictive feature signatures, including Gabor, first-order, and NGTDM features. Among the classifiers, the best performance was achieved by the fine KNN classifier, which yielded mean accuracy, AUC, sensitivity, specificity, precision, and F-score of 0.84, 0.83, 0.75, 0.87, 0.78, and 0.76, respectively, in 100 iterations of classification, within the 52 patients with 10-fold cross-validation. The MPI-SPECT-based radiomic features are well suited for predicting post-revascularization EF and therefore provide a helpful approach for deciding on the most appropriate treatment.
Evaluation of Semiautomatic and Deep Learning–Based Fully Automatic Segmentation Methods on [18F]FDG PET/CT Images from Patients with Lymphoma: Influence on Tumor Characterization
Authors: Constantino Cláudia S. , Leocádio Sónia , Oliveira Francisco P. M. , Silva Mariana , Oliveira Carla , Castanheira Joana C. , Silva Ângelo , Vaz Sofia , Teixeira Ricardo , Neves Manuel , Lúcio Paulo , João Cristina , Costa Durval C.
Published: April 2023

The objective is to assess the performance of seven semiautomatic and two fully automatic segmentation methods on [18F]FDG PET/CT lymphoma images and evaluate their influence on tumor quantification. All lymphoma lesions identified in 65 whole-body [18F]FDG PET/CT staging images were segmented by two experienced observers using manual and semiautomatic methods. Semiautomatic segmentation using absolute and relative thresholds, k-means and Bayesian clustering, and a self-adaptive configuration (SAC) of k-means and Bayesian was applied. Three state-of-the-art deep learning–based segmentations methods using a 3D U-Net architecture were also applied. One was semiautomatic and two were fully automatic, of which one is publicly available. Dice coefficient (DC) measured segmentation overlap, considering manual segmentation the ground truth. Lymphoma lesions were characterized by 31 features. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) assessed features agreement between different segmentation methods. Nine hundred twenty [18F]FDG-avid lesions were identified. The SAC Bayesian method achieved the highest median intra-observer DC (0.87). Inter-observers’ DC was higher for SAC Bayesian than manual segmentation (0.94 vs 0.84, p < 0.001). Semiautomatic deep learning–based median DC was promising (0.83 (Obs1), 0.79 (Obs2)). Threshold-based methods and publicly available 3D U-Net gave poorer results (0.56 ≤ DC ≤ 0.68). Maximum, mean, and peak standardized uptake values, metabolic tumor volume, and total lesion glycolysis showed excellent agreement (ICC ≥ 0.92) between manual and SAC Bayesian segmentation methods. The SAC Bayesian classifier is more reproducible and produces similar lesion features compared to manual segmentation, giving the best concordant results of all other methods. Deep learning–based segmentation can achieve overall good segmentation results but failed in few patients impacting patients’ clinical evaluation.
Thermal and behavioural responses of moose to chemical immobilisation from a helicopter
Authors: Græsli Anne Randi , Thiel Alexandra , Beumer Larissa T. , Fuchs Boris , Stenbacka Fredrik , Neumann Wiebke , Singh Navinder J. , Ericsson Göran , Arnemo Jon M. , Evans Alina L.
Published: April 2023

Instrumentation and sample collection for wildlife research and management may require chemical immobilisation of animals, which may entail physiological and behavioural effects on them. It is therefore important to evaluate the immobilisation protocols to reduce the risk of mortality and morbidity of the handled animals and their populations. Using a multi-sensor approach, we assessed the short-term (< 10 days) thermal and behavioural responses of 10 adult female moose (Alces alces) equipped with ruminal temperature loggers and GPS collars with accelerometers to helicopter-based chemical immobilisations. We investigated the body temperature (Tb), movement rates, and resting time before, during, and after recapture. Chemical immobilisations on average increased maximum Tb by 0.71 °C during the capture day, and imposed longer travel distances during the capture day and the two following days (3.8 and 1.8 km, respectively), compared to a 10-day reference period before the immobilisation. The probability of resting was 5–6% lower on the capture day and the two following days compared to the reference period, and females with offspring had a higher probability of resting than females without. Maximum Tb, movement rate, and resting time returned to pre-capture levels on an individual level 2 h, 3 days, and 3 days after the immobilisation, respectively. Chemical immobilisation of moose from a helicopter increases the energy expenditure deduced through movement and Tb rise lasting for hours to days. Ecological and physiological studies aimed at inferring general patterns may encounter bias if including sensor and tracking data from tagged animals without accounting for potential post-capture effects.
Perceptions of control over different causes of death and the accuracy of risk estimations
Authors: Brown Richard , Sillence Elizabeth , Pepper Gillian
Published: April 2023

Background

A large number of deaths could be avoided by improving health behaviours. The degree to which people invest in their long-term health is influenced by how much they believe they can control their risk of death. Identifying causes of death believed to be uncontrollable, but likely to occur, may provide actionable targets for health interventions to increase control beliefs and encourage healthier behaviours.

Method

We recruited a nationally representative online sample of 1500 participants in the UK. We assessed perceived control, perceived personal likelihood of death, certainty of risk estimation, and perceived knowledge for 20 causes of death. We also measured overall perceived uncontrollable mortality risk (PUMR) and perceived prevalence for each of the Office for National Statistics’ categories of avoidable death.

Findings

Risk of death due to cancer was considered highly likely to occur but largely beyond individual control. Cardiovascular disease was considered moderately controllable and a likely cause of death. Drugs and alcohol were perceived as risks both high in control and low in likelihood of death. However, perceptions of control over specific causes of death were found not to predict overall PUMR, with the exception of cardiovascular disease. Finally, our sample substantially overestimated the prevalence of drug and alcohol-related deaths in the UK.

Conclusions

We suggest that more can be done by public health communicators to emphasise the lifestyle and behavioural changes that individuals can make to reduce their general cancer risk. More work is needed to understand the barriers to engaging with preventative behaviours and maintaining a healthy heart. Finally, we call for greater journalistic responsibility when reporting health risks to the public.
Nonlinear Material Modeling for Mechanical Characterization of 3-D Printed PLA Polymer With Different Infill Densities
Authors: Afshar Reza , Jeanne Simon , Abali Bilen Emek
Published: April 2023

In additive manufacturing, also called 3-D printing, one of widely used materials is polylactide thermoplastic polymer (PLA) by means of the fused deposition modeling. For weight reduction purposes, infill density is an often used feature in slicing for 3-D printing. We aim at investigating the effect of infill density on the mechanical properties of structures. Therefore, we demonstrate how to prepare tensile specimens and test them by a universal testing machine. Results are collected by a so-called digital image correlation method. As infill density increases, from 10% to 100%, the nominal strain at break decreases from about 2.1% to 1.2%, respectively. In other words, the material becomes more ductile by decreasing the infill density of PLA material, which is possible to justify with an effect of the microstructure created by the infill density. Furthermore, we discuss a possible material model fitting all the presented results and report that a hyperelastic material model is needed for the PLA. We utilize Neo-Hookean, Mooney–Rivlin, and Yeoh models, all for different infill densities. All three models show a fairly good agreement to the experimental data. Neo-Hookean model has an advantage of only one parameter, which increases monotonously with infill density.
Ductility-strength and strength-ductility relations for a constant yield displacement seismic design procedure
Authors: da Silva Andréia H. A. , Tsiavos Anastasios , Stojadinović Božidar
Published: April 2023

The modern engineering approach to design of structures exposed to rare but intense earthquakes allows for their inelastic response. Models and tools to rapidly but accurately assess the extent of the inelastic response of the structure and control its performance are, therefore, essential. We develop a closed-form$$\upmu -R^{*}-S_{d,y}$$μ-R∗-Sd,yrelation between the ductility$$\upmu $$μand the strength reduction factorR*, as well as its approximate inverseR*-$$\upmu $$μ-Sd,yrelation, both functions of the SDOF oscillator yield displacementSd,y, not its vibration periodT. The fundamental vibration period of the structure varies during the iterative design process focused on modifying its strength. However, the yield displacement of the structure is practically invariant with respect to the strength of the structure, as it depends primarily on its geometry and material properties. We use these relations to formulate a constant yield displacement seismic design procedure and exemplify it. Noting the structure of the developed relations, we use dimensional analysis to formulate a version of the ductility-strength and strength-ductility relations that are dimensionless and independent of the seismic hazard intensity. These novel, dimensionless master relations are the$$\upmu $$μ-R*-H/B-$$\upkappa $$κductility-strength and theR*-$$\upmu $$μ-H/B-$$\upkappa $$κstrength-ductility relations.
Effectiveness of Psychotherapy for Internalising Symptoms in Children and Adolescents When Delivered in Routine Settings: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Wuthrich Viviana M. , Zagic Dino , Dickson Sophie J. , McLellan Lauren F. , Chen Jessamine T.-H. , Jones Michael P. , Rapee Ronald M.
Published: April 2023

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to examine the effectiveness of psychological interventions for internalising disorders in youth when delivered in routine settings. Secondary aims were to examine the effectiveness of cognitive behavioural therapy and determine moderators of treatment response. The study was pre-registered (PROSPERO 2020 CRD42020202776). Databases were systematically searched (PsycINFO, Medline, Embase, PubMed, ERIC) in December 2022 and screened according to the PRISMA 2020 statement. Inclusion: School aged participants (4–18 years) with a primary internalising disorder; psychotherapy delivered in a routine setting (e.g. outpatient clinic, school) by setting staff; compared psychotherapy to any control in a randomised controlled trial; reported pre-to-post or pre-to-follow-up comparisons on the primary disorder according to child, parent or independent evaluator report; and was published in English. Risk of bias was assessed using the ROB 2.0 Cochrane tool. Results were synthesised using random effects to pool estimates. Risk ratios were used to analyse dichotomous data and standardised mean differences (SMD) for continuous data. Forty-five studies were included (N = 4901 participants; M = 13 years; range 8–16; SD = 2.5). Nine used waitlist control, 17 treatment as usual, 4 placebo; 15 compared psychotherapy to active control. Psychotherapy was associated with small significant effects pre- to post-treatment compared to non-active controls for anxiety (SMD =  − 0.24 to 0.50) and depression (SMD =  − 0.19 to 0.34) with effects differing by informant. Psychotherapy led to small significant pre-to-post-benefits in youth internalising disorders in routine settings. Results are limited by reporter type and follow-up.
Internal IT modularity, firm size, and adoption of cloud computing
Authors: Guo Rui , Tafti Ali , Subramanyam Ramanath
Published: April 2023

Cloud computing has achieved great commercial success to date, but its associated risks may impede firms from adopting it more effectively. This paper addresses the issue from the perspective of firms that use cloud computing and argues that the modularization of firms’ internal IT systems play an important role in enabling their adoption of cloud services. We performed detailed empirical analyses employing a dataset containing 457 firms classified as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as well as large enterprises. Our empirical results mainly suggest that internal IT modularity aimed for organization-wide, top-down strategic business transformation can help firms better adopt application-level cloud services regardless of their firm size. Bottom-up non-strategic internal IT modularity siloed in individual projects can foster the use of server-level cloud services for SMEs, but not for large enterprises. Our findings reveal support for the general prior understanding of (a) the negative effect of internal IT expenditure and cloud-based software’s quality and risk concerns on application-level cloud adoption, and (b) the positive effect of perceived benefits of cloud-based software on application-level cloud adoption for both SMEs and large enterprises. Finally, when SMEs develop more custom Web services in house, they tend to adopt fewer server-level cloud services externally. The theoretical development and empirical analysis of the effect of IT modularity and firm size on cloud adoption contribute to our understanding of how firms can be more internally ready to use cloud computing effectively.
On the spread and evolution of dead methods in Java desktop applications: an exploratory study
Authors: Caivano Danilo , Cassieri Pietro , Romano Simone , Scanniello Giuseppe
Published: April 2023

Background.Dead code is a code smell. It can refer to code blocks, fields, methods, etc. that are unused and/or unreachable—e.g., if a method is unused and/or unreachable, it is a dead method. Past research has shown that the presence of dead code in source code harms its comprehensibility and maintainability. Nevertheless, there is still little empirical evidence on the spread of this code smell in the source code of commercial and open-source software applications.

Aims.Our goal is to gather, through an exploratory study, empirical evidence on the spread and evolution of dead methods in open-source Java desktop applications.

Method.We quantitatively analyzed the commit histories of 23 open-source Java desktop applications, whose software projects were hosted onGitHub. To investigate the spread and evolution of dead methods, we focused on dead methods detected at a commit level. The total number of analyzed commits in our study is 1,587. The perspective of our exploratory study is that of both practitioners and researchers.

Results.We can summarize the most important take-away results as follows:(i)dead methods affect open-source Java desktop applications;(ii)dead methods generally survive for a long time before being “buried” or “revived;”(iii)dead methods that are then revived tend to survive less, as compared to dead methods that are then buried;(iv)dead methods are rarely revived; and(v)most dead methods are stillborn, rather than becoming dead later. Given the exploratory nature of our study, we believe that its results will help researchers to conduct more resource- and time-demanding research on dead methods and, in general, on dead code.

Conclusions.We can conclude that developers should carefully handle dead code (and thus dead methods) since it is harmful, widespread, rarely revived, and survives for a long time in software applications.
Responses in fast-spiking interneuron firing rates to parameter variations associated with degradation of perineuronal nets
Authors: Hanssen Kine Ødegård , Grødem Sverre , Fyhn Marianne , Hafting Torkel , Einevoll Gaute T. , Ness Torbjørn Vefferstad , Halnes Geir
Published: April 2023

The perineuronal nets (PNNs) are sugar coated protein structures that encapsulate certain neurons in the brain, such as parvalbumin positive (PV) inhibitory neurons. As PNNs are theorized to act as a barrier to ion transport, they may effectively increase the membrane charge-separation distance, thereby affecting the membrane capacitance. Tewari et al. (2018) found that degradation of PNNs induced a 25%-50% increase in membrane capacitance $$c_\text {m}$$

c
m

and a reduction in the firing rates of PV-cells. In the current work, we explore how changes in $$c_\text {m}$$

c
m

affects the firing rate in a selection of computational neuron models, ranging in complexity from a single compartment Hodgkin-Huxley model to morphologically detailed PV-neuron models. In all models, an increased $$c_\text {m}$$

c
m

lead to reduced firing, but the experimentally reported increase in $$c_\text {m}$$

c
m

was not alone sufficient to explain the experimentally reported reduction in firing rate. We therefore hypothesized that PNN degradation in the experiments affected not only $$c_\text {m}$$

c
m

, but also ionic reversal potentials and ion channel conductances. In simulations, we explored how various model parameters affected the firing rate of the model neurons, and identified which parameter variations in addition to $$c_\text {m}$$

c
m

that are most likely candidates for explaining the experimentally reported reduction in firing rate.
Analysis of peri-implant bone defects by using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT): an integrative review
Authors: Costa J. A. , Mendes J. M. , Salazar F. , Pacheco J. J. , Rompante P. , Câmara M. I.
Published: April 2023

The objective of this work was to perform an integrative review of the inspection of peri-implant bone defects using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). An electronic search was performed in the PubMed database using the following scientific terms: CBCT or Cone Beam computed tomography; dental implant; peri-implant; bone loss; defects. The survey identified 267 studies, of which 18 were considered relevant to this study. These studies provided important data taking into account the accuracy of cone beam computed tomography in the detection and measurement of peri-implant bone defects such as fenestrations, dehiscence and intraosseous circumferential defects. The effectiveness of CBCT in aiding in geometric bone calculations and in the diagnosis of peri-implant defects was influenced by factors such as artefacts, defect size, bone wall thickness, implant material, adjustment of acquisition parameters and observer experience. A not insignificant number of studies compared intraoral radiography to CBCT in the detection of peri-implant bone loss. CBCT was clearly superior to intraoral radiography in the detection of all peri-implant bone defects, except for defects located in the interproximal zone. In general, studies have shown that peri-implant bone measurements adjacent to the implant surface can be correctly determined, as well as the diagnosis of peri-implant bone defects with an average discrepancy of less than 1 mm from the actual measurement of the defect.
Effects of environmental concentrations of caffeine on adult zebrafish behaviour: a short-term exposure scenario
Authors: Santos Niedja , Picolo Victor , Domingues Inês , Perillo Vitória , Villacis Rolando A.R. , Grisolia Cesar Koppe , Oliveira Miguel
Published: April 2023

Caffeine (CAF) has been considered an emerging environmental contaminant and its presence indicator of anthropogenic contamination. This study evaluated the effects of environmental concentrations of CAF (0, 0.5, 1.5, and 300 μg. L−1) on the behaviour of adult zebrafish (Danio rerio) after 7 days of exposure. The components of feeding, locomotion, boldness (new tank test), sociability (schooling test), and aggression (mirror test) were analysed. Growth rate and weight were investigated as complementary measures. CAF (0.5, 1.5, and 300 μg. L−1) reduced exploratory behaviour in zebrafish, increased feeding latency time (1.5, and 300 μg. L−1), and decreased growth rate and fish weight (300 μg. L−1). CAF also induced aggressive behaviour (0.5, 1.5, and 300 μg. L−1) and decreased appetence to the shoal (sociability) (0.5, and 1.5 μg. L−1). This study showed that low doses of CAF can induce behavioural effects in zebrafish that may have significant long-term impacts on vital ecological functions.
Prenatal exposure to particulate matter and term low birth weight: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Jing , Chen Yuanmei , Liu Die , Ye Fang , Sun Qi , Huang Qiang , Dong Jing , Pei Tao , He Yuan , Zhang Qi
Published: April 2023

To evaluate the relationships between maternal particulate matter exposure and offspring birth weight. Studies were categorized into three subgroups: term low birth weight (TLBW) among full-term births and all births (regardless of gestational age) and low birth weight (LBW) among all births, based on the search results of MEDLINE and the Web of Science from the inception of the database to April 2022. Subgroup analyses were conducted based on the economic status, region, exposure assessment, risk of bias, and adjustment. Sixty-one studies involving 34,506,975 singleton live births in 15 countries were analyzed. Overall, the risk of bias for most studies (75%) was low. In 39 of 47 term birth studies, the pooled odds ratio of TLBW among term births for per interquartile range (IQR) increases throughout the entire pregnancy was 1.02 (1.01 to 1.03) for PM2.5 and 1.03 (1.01 to 1.05) for PM10 after adjustment for covariates. No significant relevance was detected across each trimester period for PM2.5. A stronger effect was observed during the second trimester (1.03, 1.01 to 1.06) for PM10. There was no increased risk of TLBW in all births associated with IQR increases in PM2.5 and PM10. LBW was associated with PM2.5 exposure in 4 of 7 studies, but statistical heterogeneity was considerable. In the TLBW subgroup analysis, the effects of PM2.5 and PM10 were both greater in studies conducted in advanced countries, studies with low bias, and studies that adjusted for maternal age, infant sex, and parity. Stronger effects were present for PM2.5 exposure collected from monitoring stations and PM10 exposure interpolated from the inverse distance weighting model. TLBW may be associated with prenatal exposure to particulate matter, but no critical windows were identified. Stronger associations were observed in advanced countries. Future original study designs need to consider the impact of different exposure assessment modalities and all possible confounding factors.
Immunomodulatory Mechanisms and Therapeutic Potential of Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Yang Guoqiang , Fan Xuehui , Liu Yingchun , Jie Pingping , Mazhar Maryam , Liu Yong , Dechsupa Nathupakorn , Wang Li
Published: April 2023

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are regarded as highly promising cells for allogeneic cell therapy, owing to their multipotent nature and ability to display potent and varied functions in different diseases. The functions of MSCs, including native immunomodulation, high self-renewal characteristic, and secretory and trophic properties, can be employed to improve the immune-modulatory functions in diseases. MSCs impact most immune cells by directly contacting and/or secreting positive microenvironmental factors to influence them. Previous studies have reported that the immunomodulatory role of MSCs is basically dependent on their secretion ability from MSCs. This review discusses the immunomodulatory capabilities of MSCs and the promising strategies to successfully improve the potential utilization of MSCs in clinical research.

Graphical Abstract
Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE)—features and forensic considerations
Authors: Byard Roger , Tiemensma Marianne , Buckland Michael E. , Vink Robert
Published: April 2023

Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) is a neurodegenerative condition, in which the only known cause is exposure to repeated episodes of blunt head trauma. It most often occurs in professional and amateur athletes who have had frequent and repetitive cranial impacts during contact sports, but may also be found in victims of domestic violence, military personnel exposed to explosive devices and in individuals with severe epilepsy. The pathognomonic pathological findings are of neurofibrillary tangles and pretangles in the depths of the cerebral sulci caused by perivascular accumulation of phosphorylated Tau (pTau). Cases may be high profile requiring an evaluation of whether the neuropathological findings of CTE can be related to injuries previously sustained on the sporting field. Failure to examine the brain or to adequately sample appropriate areas at autopsy may lead to cases being overlooked and to an underestimation of the incidence of this condition in the community. Performing immunohistochemical staining for pTau in three areas from the neocortex has been found to be a useful screening tool for CTE. Ascertaining whether there is a history of head trauma, including exposure to contact sports, as a standard part of forensic clinical history protocols will help identify at-risk individuals so that Coronial consideration of the need for brain examination can be appropriately informed. Repetitive head trauma, particularly from contact sport, is being increasingly recognized as a cause of significant preventable neurodegeneration.
Cryopreventive temperatures prior to chemotherapy
Authors: Ibrahim A. , Camci E. , Khairallah L. , Jontell M. , Walladbegi J.
Published: April 2023

The superiority of oral cryotherapy (OC) for prevention of chemotherapy-induced oral mucositis (OM) has been demonstrated in several trials. In clinical settings, cooling is usually initiated prior to the chemotherapy infusion. It then continues during the infusion, and for a period after the infusion has been completed. While the cooling period post-infusion depends on the half-life of the chemotherapeutic drug, there is no consensus on when cooling should be initiated prior to the infusion. The lowest achieved temperature in the oral mucosa is believed to provide the best condition for OM prevention. Given this, it was of interest to investigate when along the course of intraoral cooling this temperature is achieved. In total, 20 healthy volunteers participated in this randomized crossover trial. Each subject attended three separate cooling sessions of 30 min each, with ice chips (IC) and the intraoral cooling device (ICD) set to 8 and 15 °C, respectively. At baseline and following 5, 10, 15, 20 and 30 min of cooling, intraoral temperatures were registered using a thermographic camera. The greatest drop in intraoral temperature was seen after 5 min of cooling with IC, ICD8°C and ICD15°C, respectively. A statistically significant difference, corresponding to 1.4 °C, was seen between IC and the ICD15°C (p < 0.05). The intraoral temperature further declined throughout the 30 min of cooling, showing an additional temperature reduction of 3.1, 2.2, and 1.7 °C for IC, ICD8°C and ICD15°C, respectively.
Anti-PD-1 immunotherapy with dose-adjusted ultra-hypofractionated re-irradiation in patients with locoregionally recurrent head and neck cancer
Authors: Koukourakis Ioannis M. , Giakzidis Axiotis G. , Koukourakis Michael I.
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Patients with recurrent inoperable squamous-cell head-neck cancer (HNSCC) after chemo-radiotherapy have an ominous prognosis. Re-irradiation can be applied with some efficacy and high toxicity rates. Anti-PD-1 immunotherapy is effective in 25% of patients. Immunogenic death produced by large radiotherapy (RT) fractions may enhance immune response.

Materials and methods

We evaluated the efficacy and tolerance of ultra-hypofractionated immuno-radiotherapy (uhypo-IRT) in 17 patients with recurrent HNSCC and 1 with melanoma. Four of HNSCC patients also had oligometastatic disease. Using a dose/time/toxicity-based algorithm, 7, 7 and 4 patients received 1, 2 and 3 fractions of 8 Gy to the tumor, respectively. Nivolumab anti-PD-1 immunotherapy was administered concurrently with RT and continued for 24 cycles, or until disease progression or manifestation of immune-related adverse events (irAEs).

Results

Early and late RT toxicities were minimal. Three patients developed irAEs (16%). After the 12th cycle, 7/17 (41.2%) and 5/17 (29.4%) patients with HNSCC showed complete (CR) and partial response (PR), respectively. CR was also achieved in the melanoma patient. The objective response rates in HNSCC patients were 57%, 86% and 66%, after 1, 2 and 3 fractions, respectively (overall response rate 70.6%). Most responders experienced an increase in peripheral lymphocyte counts. The median time to progression was 10 months. The 3-year projected locoregional progression-free survival was 35%, while the 3-year disease-specific overall survival was 50%.

Conclusions

Anti-PD1 uhypo-IRT is safe and effective in patients with recurrent HNSCC. The high objective response rates and the long survival without evidence of disease support further trials on uhypo-IRT.
Body shame and problematic social networking sites use: the mediating effect of perfectionistic self-presentation style and body image control in photos
Authors: Fioravanti Giulia , Bocci Benucci Sara , Vinciarelli Viola , Casale Silvia
Published: April 2023

Previous studies have shown that body shame and body image control in photos are associated with Problematic Social Networking Sites Use. The current study aims to build upon previous evidence by examining the role of perfectionistic self-presentation in the relationship between body shame, on the one hand, and body image control in photos and Problematic Social Networking Sites Use, on the other hand. The sample included 695 participants (%F = 61.29; Mage = 21.01 ± 5.05; age range = 14–30). The hypothesized serial mediation effect of perfectionistic self-presentation style and body image control in photos in the association between body shame and Problematic Social Networking Sites Use was significant (indirect effect = 0.05; 95% CI: [0.02, 0.07] for young women; indirect effect = 0.02; 95% CI: [0.002, 0.04] for young men). The present study contributes toward the understanding of the possible predictors of Problematic Social Networking Sites Use and leads novel findings in the field of self-objectification research. Regardless of gender, young people who feel ashamed of their body may develop a perfectionistic self-presentation (by promoting a perfect image and hiding imperfections) as compensatory strategy. However, the gratification of the need for self-presentation through body image control in Social Networks photos activities could in turn lead to Problematic Social Networking Sites Use.
What is a framework? Understanding their purpose, value, development and use
Authors: Partelow Stefan
Published: April 2023

Many frameworks exist across the sciences and science-policy interface, but it is not always clear how they are developed or can be applied. It is also often vague how new or existing frameworks are positioned in a theory of science to advance a specific theory or paradigm. This article examines these questions and positions the role of frameworks as integral but often vague scientific tools, highlighting benefits and critiques. While frameworks can be useful for synthesizing and communicating core concepts in a field, they often lack transparency in how they were developed and how they can be applied. Positioning frameworks within a theory of science can aid in knowing the purpose and value of framework use. This article provides a meta-framework for visualizing and engaging the four mediating processes for framework development and application: (1) empirical generalization, (2) theoretical fitting, (3) application, and (4) hypothesizing. Guiding points for scholars and policymakers using or developing frameworks in their research are provided in closing.
Improved rough approximations based on variable J-containment neighborhoods
Authors: Zheng Tingting
Published: April 2023

Classic generalized rough set model in neighborhood systems provides a more general framework for depicting approximations, while it may meet the non-reflexive situations. Some scholars put forward different neighborhoods, such as adhesion neighborhoods (briefly, $$P_{j}$$

P
j

-neighborhoods), containment neighborhoods (briefly, $$C_{j}$$

C
j

-neighborhoods), and $$E_{j}$$

E
j

-neighborhoods. However, not all of them are reflexive. Moreover, the granularity of $$P_{j}$$

P
j

-neighborhoods and $$C_{j}$$

C
j

-neighborhoods are too fine, and that of $$E_{j}$$

E
j

-neighborhoods too coarse. To solve the problem, we aim to design a novel construction approach of neighborhoods, called variable j-containment neighborhoods (briefly, $$V_{j}^{\beta }$$

V

j

β

-neighborhoods), which satisfies the reflexivity and the granularity so flexible that the neighborhood space can adjust the granularity to meet the needs of problems. We generalize three kinds of rough approximations in $$V_{j}^{\beta }$$

V

j

β

-neighborhood spaces and discuss their properties. What’s more, we analyze the topology structures relying on $$V_{j}^{\beta }$$

V

j

β

-neighborhood spaces and compare our proposed approach with the existing approaches. By selecting the appropriate parameter $$\beta$$
β
, our neighborhood system is more flexible in adjusting the granularity to fit problem requirements. And illustrative examples demonstrate the advantages of the proposed rough set model to attribute reduction in incomplete information systems.
Effect of typical meteorological year selection on integrated daylight modeling and building energy simulation
Authors: Sun Jingting , Li Zhengrong , Li Cui , Feng Xiwen
Published: April 2023

The complete description of outdoor luminous and thermal environment is the basis for daylight utilization design with simulation tools. Nevertheless, Typical Meteorological Year (TMY) and generation method specifically developed for the energy simulation of daylight-utilized buildings is still unavailable currently. Luminous environment parameters have not been taken into consideration in existing TMY generation methods. In this study, the feasibility of existing TMY generation process has been examined. A generic office model implementing sided window daylighting is established. Historical meteorological data of Hong Kong from 1979 to 2007 have been collected and three existing weighting schemes are applied during the Typical Meteorological Month (TMM) selection procedures. Three TMY files for Hong Kong are generated and used to conduct integrated Climate-Based Daylight Modeling and building energy simulation. The result demonstrates that, on annual basis, the energy consumption results obtained from the generated TMY files are in good agreements with the long-term mean annual value. The maximum deviation of annual energy consumptions for the generated TMY files is only 1.8%. However, further analysis on monthly basis shows that all the three generated TMY files fail to fully represent the long-term monthly mean level. The maximum deviation of monthly energy consumptions for the generated TMY files can reach up to 11%. As the energy performance daylight utilization is subject to weather change, analysis on daily and monthly energy level is important, especially during design stage. The deficiency of existing TMM selection process and TMY generation method indicates the necessity to develop a corresponding typical weather data input with finer resolution for the energy simulation of daylight-related buildings.