bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of N, P, and K rates on stockpiled tall fescue in claypan soils
Authors: Yasuoka Junior Issamu , Pedreira Bruno C. , Helwig Dale , Farney Jaymelynn , Sassenrath Gretchen
Published: October 2023

Stockpiled tall fescue [Lolium arundinaceum (Schreb.) Darbysh.] is an alternative to extend the grazing season and reduce feeding costs during the winter. In addition, adequate fertility management with N, P, and K nutrients can improve forage production. Our objective was to evaluate the impact of N, P, and K fertilization (from 0 to 120 lb/a, 0 and 50 lb/a, and 0 and 30 lb/a, respectively) on forage accumulation (FA) and nutritive value in stockpiled tall fescue in claypan soils. The study was carried out in Columbus, KS, on established ‘Kentucky 31’ tall fescue pastures in the fall of 2019 and 2021 (two years). The treatments were one unfertilized control and fertilization with six combinations of nitrogen (0, 40, 60, 80, and 120 lb/a), phosphorus (0 and 50 lb/a), and potassium (0 and 30 lb/a) rates. Forage accumulation was greater in the treatments with at least 60 lb N/a compared with the unfertilized control (1,235 vs. 570 lb DM/a). However, the greatest crude protein content (CP; 13%) and crude protein accumulation (CPA; 163 lb CP/a) were produced when 120 lb N/a was applied. Nitrogen fertilization also resulted in greater total digestible nutrients, net energy gain, net energy maintenance, and lower acid detergent fiber. Phosphorus and potassium had little effect on the measured responses. Nitrogen fertilization can be an alternative to increase stockpiled tall fescue FA and nutritive value, reducing the need for energy and protein supplementation of livestock during the winter.
Pharmacokinetics and Drug–Drug Interaction of Allisartan Isoproxil and Indapamide Sustained‐Release Formulation
Authors: Yi Wu , Lin Sisi , Hao Rui , Shao Yiming , Wang Yannan , Yu Jin , Fang Lu , Zhu Jingjing , Wang Aiwei , Wu Yanfang , Huang Hua , Deng Chongyang , Sun Jingchao , Zhao Hongcan , Wang Ying , Tong Xiangming
Published: October 2023

Allisartan isoproxil (AI) is an angiotensin II type 1 receptor blocker and be converted into the active substance EXP3174 in vivo. We evaluated the drug–drug interactions of AI and an indapamide sustained‐release (Ind SR) preparation, as well as the pharmacokinetic characteristics and safety of AI and Ind SR in healthy subjects. The trial was set up in 6 sequences and 3 cycles, and each cycle contained a 7‐day washout period. Subjects received 3 different trial drugs (A, AI; B, Ind SR; C, AI + Ind SR) during 3 different cycles. Twenty‐four subjects were enrolled in the clinical trial. Of these, 22 completed the study, 2 subjects dropped out due to adverse events (AEs). For subjects given AI alone or combined with Ind SR, the pharmacogenetic parameters Cmax and the geometric mean ratio of steady state (combined/single) of EXP3174 was 130%. The geometric mean ratio of area under the concentration–time curve over the dosing interval at steady state (combined/single use) was 144.5%. Therefore, the combination of Ind SR had an impact on the pharmacokinetics of AI. Then, the results indicated that the AI combination had no effect on the pharmacokinetics of Ind SR. Serious AEs did not occur. The AEs in this clinical trial were the same as those for AI and Ind SR. Combined administration resulted in 2 cases (2 subjects) of Grade 3 hypotension and 1 case of Grade 3 hypotension with AI alone. Considering that this trial included healthy volunteers, the risk of hypotension was expected to be manageable.
Thin diameter optical displacement sensor for grasping force sensing of surgical robot
Authors: Dong Jiayuan , Sato Kazutaka , Morizane Shuichi , Ueki Masaru , Takenaka Atsushi , Lee Sang‐Seok , Matsunaga Tadao
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this study is to realize a grasp force measurement of forceps for robotic surgery systems. Generally, surgical robot forceps is actuated by traction wire, and we have suggested a newly force sensing system by measuring the wire expansion utilizing micro displacement sensors. For measuring the elongation of the wire, the white‐light interference principle has been utilized on sensor system, and the sensor consists of a tip‐tilted optical fiber, a Fizeau interferometer and a sensor holder. In this report, displacement sensor has been successfully fabricated and mounted onto the wire to measure the elongation of the wire under tension and discussed the experimental results.
An exploratory study of brain temperature and choline abnormalities in temporal lobe epilepsy patients with depressive symptoms
Authors: Oates Mina , Sharma Ayushe A. , Nenert Rodolphe , Mueller Christina , Szaflarski Jerzy P.
Published: October 2023

Objective

Epilepsy and depression share neurobiological origins, and evidence suggests a possible bidirectional relationship that remains poorly understood. This exploratory, cross‐sectional study aimed to investigate this relationship by employing magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) and thermometry (MRSI‐t) in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) with comorbid depressive symptoms and control participants. This is the first study to combine MRSI and MRSI‐t to examine brain temperature and choline abnormalities in regions implicated in seizure onset and depression.

Methods

Twenty‐six patients with TLE and 26 controls completed questionnaires and underwent imaging at 3T. Volumetric echo‐planar MRSI/MRSI‐t data were processed within the Metabolite Imaging and Data Analysis System (MIDAS). Choline (CHO) was quantified as a ratio over creatine (CRE; CHO/CRE). Brain temperature (TCRE) was calculated based on the chemical shift difference of H2O relative to CRE's stable location on the ppm spectrum. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale measured anxiety and depressive symptoms. The Chalfont Seizure Severity Scale measured seizure severity in patients with TLE. Two sets of voxelwise independent sample t tests examined group differences in CHO/CRE and TCRE maps. Voxel‐based multimodal canonical correlation analysis (mCCA) linked both datasets to investigate if, how, and where CHO/CRE and TCRE abnormalities were correlated in TLE participants and controls.

Results

Compared to controls, patients with TLE reported more depressive symptoms (P = 0.04) and showed CHO/CRE and TCRE elevations in left temporal and bilateral frontal regions implicated in seizure onset and depressive disorders (pFWE < 0.05). For the TLE group, CHO/CRE levels in temporal and frontal cortices were associated with elevated TCRE in bilateral frontal and temporal gyri (r = 0.96), and decreased TCRE in bilateral fronto‐parietal regions (r = −0.95).

Significance

Abnormalities in TCRE and CHO/CRE were observed in seizure‐producing areas and in regions implicated in depression. These preliminary findings suggest that common metabolic changes may underlie TLE and depression. Our results suggest further investigations into the proposed bidirectional mechanisms underlying this relationship are warranted.
When molecular outsmarts morphology: Malignant ossifying fibromyxoid tumors masquerading as osteosarcomas, including a novel CREBZF::PHF1 fusion
Authors: Sharma Aarti E. , Dermawan Josephine K. , Sherrod Andy E. , Chopra Shefali , Maki Robert G. , Antonescu Cristina R.
Published: October 2023

We present two cases of malignant ossifying fibromyxoid tumor (OFMT) which eluded diagnosis due to compelling clinicopathologic mimicry, compounded by similarly elusive underlying molecular drivers. The first is of a clavicle mass in a 69 year‐old female, which histologically showed an infiltrative nested and trabeculated proliferation of monomorphic cells giving rise to scattered spicules of immature woven bone. Excepting SATB2 positivity, the lesion showed an inconclusive immunoprofile which along with negative PHF1 FISH led to an initial diagnosis of high‐grade osteosarcoma. Next generation sequencing (NGS) revealed a particularly rare CREBBP::BCORL1 fusion. The second illustrates the peculiar presentation of a dural‐based mass in a 52 year‐old female who presented with neurologic dyscrasias. Sections showed a sheeted monotonous proliferation of ovoid to spindle cells, but in contrast to Case #1, the tumor contained an exuberance of reticular osteoid and woven bone deposition mimicking malignant osteogenic differentiation. NGS showed a novel CREBZF::PHF1 fusion. Both tumors recurred locally less than 1 year post‐operatively. As such we reiterate that careful morphologic examination is axiomatic to any diagnosis in our discipline, but this paradigm must shift to recognize that molecular diagnostics can provide closure where traditional tools have notable limitations.
Estimation of 10‐year cardiovascular risk among adult population in western Nepal using nonlaboratory‐based WHO/ISH chart, 2023: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Sitaula Deekshanta , Dhakal Aarati , Mandal Sujit K. , Bhattarai Nisha , Silwal Amisha , Adhikari Pradeep , Gupta Shikha R. , Khatri Dhan , Lageju Nimesh , Guragain Bhimsagar
Published: October 2023

Background and Aims

Noncommunicable diseases have emerged as a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide among which the majority of the deaths are caused by cardiovascular diseases. Estimating the risk of cardiovascular diseases helps eliminate the risk factors and prevent developing cardiovascular diseases in the future. The World Health Organization in association with the International Society of Hypertension has developed risk charts for the estimation of 10‐year risk for cardiovascular diseases. This study aimed to estimate 10‐year cardiovascular risk in the Nepalese population using nonlaboratory‐based charts.

Methods

A hospital‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted among 314 adults aged 40–74 years visiting the outpatient departments of Shishuwa Hospital in western Nepal. Systematic random sampling was used to select the participants. Questionnaire‐guided short interviews, physical examination, and anthropometric measurements were done. The χ2 test was used to test the significance and a p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

As per the risk estimation charts, high cardiovascular risk (20%–30%) was seen in 6.1% of total participants and moderate cardiovascular risk (10%–20%) was found in 29% of participants. The moderate–high risk was significantly higher among male participants compared to females (p < 0.01). Of all the participants, 22.0% were current smokers, 17.2% were alcohol users, 61.1% were hypertensive, and 35.7% were diabetics. Smoking tobacco, alcohol use, and hypertension were significantly more prevalent among the male participants. (p < 0.01) Adults in the 50–59 years age group had a significantly high prevalence of hypertension (p < 0.01), diabetes (p = 0.02), and alcohol abuse (p = 0.01).

Conclusion

This study shows high cardiovascular risk among adult population in western Nepal. The 10‐year cardiovascular risk score and risk factors were significantly higher among males than females. There seems to be a prompt necessity of health promotion interventions to reduce cardiovascular risk factors and prevent the burden of cardiovascular diseases in Nepal.
Best practices and lessons learned from implementing a massive Ebola vaccination program: Summarizing UMURINZI team experience
Authors: Dine Roseline Dzekem , Umutoni Aline Uwizera , Umulisa Marie Michele , Ezeanochie Nnamdi , Noben Jozef , Indoe Ellen Pagan , Dusingize Clémence , Kamali Fulgence , Niyingabira Julien
Published: October 2023

Background and Aims

The unified Rwandan initiative for national ZEBOVAC immunization (UMURINZI) program's community engagement component was enacted to mobilize and vaccinate high‐risk community members. This article describes best practices and lessons learned from the implementation of UMURINZI, a large‐scale Ebola vaccination program.

Methods

The population deemed to be at risk for EVD consisted of people who frequently cross Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) borders including those coming from Kigali City, potential first responders who have not previously been vaccinated against EVD, as well as people who reside in high‐risk border‐proximate areas of the Rubavu and Rusizi districts in the Western Province of Rwanda. These districts were selected because of their proximity to high‐traffic borders linking Rwanda to DRC's cities near an active Ebola outbreak. Volunteers of this program were adults, adolescents, and children aged 2 years or above who resided in the selected communities. Recruitment at the sites was conducted in close collaboration with each health area's Community Health Workers (CHWs). Volunteers were informed that the program involved being fully vaccinated (two doses of Ebola vaccines) within 2 months apart in the allocated vaccination sites.

Results

Lessons learned were categorized into four pillars: infrastructure, leadership, myths, and partnership with respect. The best practices that were used during the implementation of the UMURINZI program were the results of a collaboration among CHWs, the involvement of national and local leaders, the use of a comprehensive engagement plan, and training. The study also had limitations.

Conclusion

We described best practices and lessons learned during the implementation of the UMURINZI program in Rwanda. These practices and lessons learned represent promising options that could contribute to better community members' participation in mass vaccination programs. Hence, we demonstrated that rigorously designed community awareness and sensitization programs are effective for the implementation of similar programs in resource‐limited settings.
Synthesis and characterization of imidazo[1,2‐d][1,2,4]oxadiazole‐functionalized furazan energetic compounds
Authors: Chen Peng , Dou Hui , Liu Suyun , He Chunlin
Published: October 2023

Two novel oxygen‐containing imidazo[1,2‐d][1,2,4]oxadiazole heterocycle compounds 2 and 3 were successfully synthesized by oxidation of the aminofurazan group. Compounds 2 and 3 were fully characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared, multinuclear NMR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. Their properties were evaluated by measured density, impact, and friction sensitivities, calculated heat of formation, and detonation performances. Compound 2 has high density (1.87 g cm−3), good detonation velocity and pressure (D:8690 m s−1, P: 33.3 GPa), acceptable sensitivity (IS: 12 J, FS: 144 N), and its overall performance is comparable to RDX. Compound 3 has a better sensitivity (IS: 28 J, FS: 252 N), but the detonation performance is average (D:8008 m s−1, P: 27.4 GPa), which may be caused by its low packing index (70.9%) affecting its density (1.78 g cm−3).
Optimum Electrical and Optical Properties of Transparent Conducting Oxide for Cu(In,Ga)Se2Photovoltaic Module Applications
Authors: Abe Yosuke , Nishimura Takahito , Yamada Akira
Published: October 2023

Herein, the transparent conducting oxide (TCO) characteristics of the window layer as a factor in the decrease of conversion efficiency from lab‐scale cells to modules are focused on. Then, an optical model and a circuit model are constructed based on measured data, and TCO parameters are investigated to optimize Cu(In,Ga)Se2(CIGS) module characteristics. Simulations assuming ZnO:Al and ZnO:B as the TCO, which are commonly used in CIGS modules with a substrate structure, show that the range of the TCO parameters to obtain high efficiency is limited. In particular, the optimum values of module characteristics are separated into high‐carrier density/thin‐film region with a smooth surface and low‐carrier density/thick‐film region with a textured surface for the TCO layer. In addition, simulations assuming a high‐mobility TCO and a wide‐gap CIGS absorber to boost conversion efficiency reveal that the wide‐gap CIGS absorber mitigates the effects of resistance losses and free carrier absorption due to the TCO, thereby expanding the design range of the carrier density in the TCO layer.
The Sintering Aids Maintain Giant Strain in Lead‐Free NBT–ST Piezoceramics Sintered at 975 °C
Authors: Dinh Thi Hinh , Park Young-Seok , Han Hyoung-Su , Lee Jae-Shin
Published: October 2023

The 0.74Na1/2Bi1/2TiO3–0.26SrTiO3 codoped with Li2CO3 and B2O3 is studied to develop the low‐temperature sintered lead‐free piezoceramic for multilayer applications. The studied piezoceramics are synthesized by a conventional solid‐state reaction method. Their crystal structures, microstructures, ferroelectrics, and strain properties are analyzed. Interestingly, the addition of Li2CO3 and B2O3 reduces the sintering temperature of the 0.74Na1/2Bi1/2TiO3–0.26SrTiO3 sample from 1175 to 975 °C. All samples show a pseudocubic perovskite structure with a dense microstructure and an inhomogeneous grain size distribution. The electric‐field‐induced polarization loops of the samples are saturated at 4 kV mm−1. More importantly, the 0.74Na1/2Bi1/2TiO3–0.26SrTiO3  + 1 wt%Li2CO3  + 1 wt%B2O3 sample sintered at 975 °C shows a Smax/Emax value of 510 pm/V under an applied electric field of 2 kV mm−1, which is promising for multilayer lead‐free piezoelectric actuator applications.
Graphene‐Based Engineered Living Materials
Authors: Allahbakhsh Ahmad , Gadegaard Nikolaj , Ruiz Carmen M. , Shavandi Amin
Published: October 2023

With the rise of engineered living materials (ELMs) as innovative, sustainable and smart systems for diverse engineering and biological applications, global interest in advancing ELMs is on the rise. Graphene‐based nanostructures can serve as effective tools to fabricate ELMs. By using graphene‐based materials as building units and microorganisms as the designers of the end materials, next‐generation ELMs can be engineered with the structural properties of graphene‐based materials and the inherent properties of the microorganisms. However, some challenges need to be addressed to fully take advantage of graphene‐based nanostructures for the design of next‐generation ELMs. This work covers the latest advances in the fabrication and application of graphene‐based ELMs. Fabrication strategies of graphene‐based ELMs are first categorized, followed by a systematic investigation of the advantages and disadvantages within each category. Next, the potential applications of graphene‐based ELMs are covered. Moreover, the challenges associated with fabrication of next‐generation graphene‐based ELMs are identified and discussed. Based on a comprehensive overview of the literature, the primary challenge limiting the integration of graphene‐based nanostructures in ELMs is nanotoxicity arising from synthetic and structural parameters. Finally, we present possible design principles to potentially address these challenges.
Recent Advances in Quality Strengthening of Perovskite Films by Additive Engineering for Efficient Solar Cells
Authors: Du Bin , He Kun , Huang Hai , Gao Weiyin , Ran Chenxin
Published: October 2023

In the past decade, perovskite solar cells (PSCs), exhibiting high efficiency, low cost, and flexibility, have made inspiring signs of progress and show great potential in large‐scale commercialization as representative third‐generation photovoltaic technology. Nevertheless, due to rapid crystallization of perovskite crystals through the solution film‐forming technique, a primary challenge is the fabrication of excellent perovskite films with superior optoelectronic characteristics and good flexibility. However, the defects and lattice stresses generated in the perovskite layer during rapid crystallization might diminish the efficiency, robustness, and reliability of PSCs. To date, a variety of techniques are being identified for strengthening the quality of perovskite films, which include interfacial engineering, solvent engineering, doping, and additives engineering. Among these strategies, developing effective additives is of utmost importance in controlling the kinetics of perovskite film crystallization, leading to improved device performance and mechanical stability, especially for flexible PSCs (FPSCs). Herein, the state‐of‐the‐art additives developed in PSCs during the past few years are retrospected, such as ionic liquids, polymers, and small organic molecules, and particular attention is paid to the advanced progress of additive engineering in FPSCs. Moreover, critical perspectives are put forward on the opportunities and challenges of additive engineering in the future development of PSCs.
Temporal associations between treated and untreated hearing loss and mild behavioral impairment in older adults without dementia
Authors: Gosselin Penny , Guan Dylan X. , Smith Eric E. , Ismail Zahinoor
Published: October 2023

INTRODUCTION

Hearing loss (HL) and mild behavioral impairment (MBI) are non‐cognitive markers of dementia. This study investigated the relationship between hearing and MBI and explored the influence of hearing aid use on the treatment of hearing loss, both cross‐sectionally and longitudinally.

METHODS

Data were analyzed from National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center participants, age ≥50, dementia‐free at baseline, collected between 2005 and 2022. Three self‐report questions were used to generate a three‐level categorical hearing variable: No‐HL, Untreated‐HL, and Treated‐HL. MBI status was derived from the informant‐rated Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire (NPI‐Q) using a published algorithm. At baseline (n = 7080), logistic regression was used to examine the association between hearing status (predictor) and the presence of global and domain‐specific MBI (outcome), adjusting for age, sex, cognitive diagnosis, and apolipoprotein E4 (APOE4). Cox proportional hazard models with time‐dependent covariates were used to examine the effect of (1) hearing status as exposure on the rate of incident MBI (n = 5889); and (2) MBI as exposure on the rate of incident HL in those with no HL at baseline (n = 6252).

RESULTS

Cross‐sectionally, participants with Untreated‐HL were more likely to exhibit global MBI (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.66, 95% CI: 1.24–2.21) and individual MBI domains of social inappropriateness (aOR = 1.95, 95% CI: 1.06–3.39), affective dysregulation (aOR = 1.71, 95% CI: 1.21–2.38), and impulse dyscontrol (aOR = 1.71, 95% CI: 1.21–2.38), compared to those with No‐HL. Participants with Treated‐HL (i.e., hearing aid use) did not differ from No‐HL for odds of global or most MBI domains, except for impulse dyscontrol (aOR = 1.38, 95% CI: 1.05–1.81). Longitudinally, we found relationships between Treated‐HL and incident MBI (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 1.29, 95% CI: 1.01–1.63) and between MBI and incident Untreated‐HL (aHR = 1.51, 95% CI: 1.19–1.94).

DISCUSSION

Our cross‐sectional results support that hearing aid use is associated with lower odds of concurrent global MBI in dementia‐free participants. Longitudinally, relationships were found between MBI and HL. The severity of HL was not assessed, however, and may require further exploration.

Highlights

Hearing Loss (HL) and mild behavioral impairment (MBI) are markers of dementia

Cross‐sectionally: Untreated‐HL was associated with global MBI burden, but

HL treated with hearing aids was not

We found associations between MBI and incident Untreated‐HL
Analysis and Quality Control of WHO- and UNEP-Coordinated Human Milk Studies 2000–2019: Polychlorinated Biphenyls, Polychlorinated Dibenzo-p-dioxins, and Polychlorinated Dibenzofurans
Authors: Malisch Rainer , Schächtele Alexander
Published: October 2023

The analytical method used for the determination of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDD), and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDF) in human milk comprised extraction of lipids, the use of 5113C12-labelled PCB and PCDD/PCDF as internal standards, several chromatographic purification steps, and high resolution gas chromatographic/high resolution mass spectrometric measurement. As an accredited laboratory since 1998, a comprehensive quality control programme has been applied to assure the long-time reliability of results of human milk samples received for WHO/UNEP-coordinated exposure studies between 2000 and 2019. This included procedural blanks, the use of fortified vegetable oil and numerous quality control samples as an in-house reference material, duplicate analyses, and successful participation in 32 proficiency tests (PTs) covering 81 samples of food of animal origin or human milk. Trueness was estimated from the PT samples in the relevant range for human milk above 1 pg WHO-TEQ/g lipid: The deviation was less than 10% from the assigned values for WHO-PCDD/PCDF-PCB-TEQ and WHO-PCDD/PCDF-TEQ and less than about 15% for WHO-PCB-TEQ for about 90% of the results. For the sum of six non-dioxin-like PCB (relevant occurrence range, 1–1000 ng/g lipid), approximately 90% of the results differed by less than 15% from the assigned values. A long-term precision of <15% (coefficient of variation of within-laboratory reproducibility) was achieved, based on quality control samples analysed between 2000 and 2019.

The analytical methodology used fulfilled the requirements of the general criteria for the operation of testing laboratories as laid down in EN ISO/IEC 17025, the analytical criteria for PCDD/PCDF and PCB in feed and food specified in EU legislation, and the criterion for monitoring information for Parties to the Stockholm Convention.
The Principles of Capitalism Questioned
Authors: Byttebier Koen
Published: October 2023

The story of the economy has become, increasingly, one of greed and selfishness.
Conceptualization and Sense of Reality of Some New, Legal Models for Conducting an Enterprise
Authors: Byttebier Koen
Published: October 2023

Before discussing in the next Sect. 7.2 (amongst others, in light of the newly proposed NMWO that has been discussed in Chap. 6), possible alternative models of conducting an enterprise than those that prevail under capitalism, it is useful to first undertake a deeper analysis of the basic principles that govern capitalist business conduct.
Science for Children?
Authors: Fuchs Hans U. , Corni Federico
Published: October 2023

A primary, mythic approach to nature pedagogy for the youngest learners is guided by direct experience of Primary Forces entwined with narrative, mimetic (theater based), and generally artistic expression and communication.
Komplizierter Verlauf einer medianen Halszyste
Authors: Flockerzi Veronika , Rink Katharina , Stahl Phillip Rolf , Schöndorf Dominik , Zemlin Michael , Schick Bernhard
Published: October 2023

Mediane Halszysten sind die zweithäufigste Ursache kindlicher Halsschwellungen. Es handelt sich um angeborene Relikte des Ductus thyreoglossus. Zügig nach der Diagnosestellung, die auf klinischer Untersuchung und sonographischer Beurteilung fußt, sollte die operative Resektion geplant werden, um komplizierte Verläufe beispielsweise durch Superinfektionen zu vermeiden. Mediane Halsfisteln entstehen sekundär aus medianen Halszysten, entweder durch Spontanperforation bei Entzündungen oder iatrogen. Von infektionsbedingten Spontanperforationen, die nur in etwa 11 % aller Fälle beobachtet werden, sind hauptsächlich Patienten in den ersten drei Lebensjahren betroffen. Im Fall einer akuten Superinfektion wird eine antibiotische Behandlung und nach Abklingen der Infektion die zeitnahe operative Resektion empfohlen.
Evaluation of the image quality and validity of handheld echocardiography for stroke volume and left ventricular ejection fraction quantification: a method comparison study
Authors: de Raat Frederique M. , van Houte Joris , Montenij Leon. J. , Bouwmeester Sjoerd , Felix Suzanne E. A. , Bingley Peter , de Boer Esmée C. , Houthuizen Patrick , Bouwman Arthur R.
Published: October 2023

Bedside quantification of stroke volume (SV) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) is valuable in hemodynamically compromised patients. Miniaturized handheld ultrasound (HAND) devices are now available for clinical use. However, the performance level of HAND devices for quantified cardiac assessment is yet unknown. The aim of this study was to compare the validity of HAND measurements with standard echocardiography (SE) and three-dimensional echocardiography (3DE). Thirty-six patients were scanned with HAND, SE and 3DE. LVEF and SV quantification was done with automated software for the HAND, SE and 3DE dataset. The image quality of HAND and SE was evaluated by scoring segmental endocardial border delineation (2 = good, 1 = poor, 0 = invisible). LVEF and SV of HAND was evaluated against SE and 3DE using correlation and Bland–Altman analysis. The correlation, bias, and limits of agreement (LOA) between HAND and SE were 0.68 [0.46:0.83], 1.60% [− 2.18:5.38], and 8.84% [− 9.79:12.99] for LVEF, and 0.91 [0.84:0.96], 1.32 ml [− 0.36:4.01], 15.54 ml [− 18.70:21.35] for SV, respectively. Correlation, bias, and LOA between HAND and 3DE were 0.55 [0.6:0.74], − 0.56% [− 2.27:1.1], and 9.88% [− 13.29:12.17] for LVEF, and 0.79 [0.62:0.89], 6.78 ml [2.34:11.21], 12.14 ml [− 26.32:39.87] for SV, respectively. The image quality scores were 9.42 ± 2.0 for the apical four chamber views of the HAND dataset and 10.49 ± 1.7 for the SE dataset and (P < 0.001). Clinically acceptable accuracy, precision, and image quality was demonstrated for HAND measurements compared to SE. In comparison to 3DE, HAND showed a clinically acceptable accuracy and precision for LVEF quantification.
Autonomic nervous system imbalance during aging contributes to impair endogenous anti-inflammaging strategies
Authors: Giunta Sergio , Xia Shijin , Pelliccioni Giuseppe , Olivieri Fabiola
Published: October 2023

Inflammaging refers to the age-related low grade, sterile, chronic, systemic, and long-lasting subclinical, proinflammatory status, currently recognized as the main risk factor for development and progression of the most common age-related diseases (ARDs). Extensive investigations were focused on a plethora of proinflammatory stimuli that can fuel inflammaging, underestimating and partly neglecting important endogenous anti-inflammaging mechanisms that could play a crucial role in such age-related proinflammatory state. Studies on autonomic nervous system (ANS) functions during aging highlighted an imbalance toward an overactive sympathetic nervous system (SNS) tone, promoting proinflammatory conditions, and a diminished parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) activity, playing anti-inflammatory effects mediated by the so called cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway (CAP). At the molecular level, CAP is characterized by signals communicated via the vagus nerve (with the possible involvement of the splenic nerves) through acetylcholine release to downregulate the inflammatory actions of macrophages, key players of inflammaging. Notably, decreased vagal function and increased burden of activated/senescent macrophages (macrophaging) probably precede the development of several age-related risk factors and diseases, while increased vagal function and reduced macrophaging could be associated with relevant reduction of risk profiles. Hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis (HPA axis) is another pathway related to ANS promoting some anti-inflammatory response mainly through increased cortisol levels. In this perspective review, we highlighted that CAP and HPA, representing broadly “anti-inflammaging” mechanisms, have a reduced efficacy and lose effectiveness in aged people, a phenomenon that could contribute to fuel inflammaging. In this framework, strategies aimed to re-balance PNS/SNS activities could be explored to modulate systemic inflammaging especially at an early subclinical stage, thus increasing the chances to reach the extreme limit of human lifespan in healthy status.
Sinn als Grundbegriff der Managementlehre. Die Neuerfindung organisationaler Beweglichkeit durch New Work, Purpose und Humanocracy
Authors: Wendt Thomas
Published: October 2023

Der Beitrag der Zeitschrift „Gruppe. Interaktion. Organisation (GIO)“ analysiert die aktuelle Sinn- und Subjektorientierung im Management als historische Konsequenz gescheiterter Steuerungsversuche und rekonstruiert eine Kontinuitätslinie der zunehmenden Verabschiedung organisationaler Verhaltenserwartungen und Handlungsimperative. Die Archäologie der Managementlehre zeigt einen Wandel im managerialen Steuerungsverständnis auf und macht sichtbar, dass die Geschichte des Managements von Rationalitätskritiken der Organisation begleitet wird, die sich im Rahmen agiler Methoden wie Design Thinking, Scrum oder Holacracy erneuert. Als Reaktion darauf erfolgt durch die Betonung von Sinn und Selbstorganisation in Konzepten wie New Work, Purpose oder Humanocracy ein grundlegender Richtungswechsel im Management. An die Stelle statischer wie dynamischer Ordnungsprinzipien tritt das sinn- und willensbildende Potenzial des Subjekts, um die Beweglichkeit der Organisation zu sichern. Gleichzeitig stellt sich damit die Frage, ob die Geschichte der Managementlehre im Modus der Bewirtschaftung individueller Identitäten einen Neuanfang nimmt oder ihr logisches Ende erreicht hat.
Erythromelalgie: Calor – Rubor – Dolor – einmal ganz anders
Authors: Decker C. , Baldauf I. , Maier H.
Published: October 2023

Erythromelalgie ist eine Erkrankung, bei der es anfallsartig zu brennenden Schmerzen, Rötung, Überwärmung und auch Schwellung insbesondere an den Extremitäten kommt. Unterschieden wird zwischen einer primären und einer sekundären Form der Krankheit. Die Diagnose wird klinisch gestellt. Da es sich bei der Erythromelalgie um eine sehr seltene Erkrankung handelt, gibt es derzeit keine etablierte Therapie. Wie auch bei unserer Patientin zu sehen ist, wurden zahlreiche Therapieansätze versucht, jedoch leider ohne dauerhaften Erfolg.
Attenuation of Hyperglycemia in Diabetic Rats Assisted by Immobilized Probiotic in Sodium Alginate
Authors: Arriaga-Morales José J. , Ordaz-Pichardo Cynthia , Castro‑Muñoz Roberto , Durán-Páramo Enrique
Published: October 2023

Diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM2) is the most common chronic disease worldwide, characterized mainly by increased glucose concentration in the blood and affecting several organs’ functionality. The daily consumption of probiotic bacteria can help control diabetes and reduce the damage caused. Cell immobilization techniques are a powerful tool that provides physical cell protection to such probiotic bacteria against gastrointestinal conditions. We suggest that cell immobilization could be a significant vector for delivering a high quantity of viable probiotics to the gut, helping attenuate hyperglycemia in diabetic rats. Seventy male Wistar rats were used in this work. Nicotinamide was administrated via intraperitoneal injection 15 minutes before inducing type 2 diabetes (DM2), followed by a second intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin to induce DM2. Rats were divided into seven groups. For 45 days, a specific treatment was applied to each group. The group of rats, supplied with immobilized Lactobacillus casei, showed a serum glucose concentration of 137 mg/dL, which was close to the one observed in the groups of healthy rats (117 mg/dL) and rats treated with metformin (155 mg/dL). The diabetic rats without treatment presented a higher serum glucose concentration (461 mg/dL). In the rats treated with immobilized L. casei, there was no biochemical parameter alteration, and the cell morphology of the analyzed tissues was similar to those of the healthy group. The consumption of immobilized L. casei could allow a high quantity of viable probiotics to be delivered to the gut, reducing serum glucose concentration by up to 70% compared to diabetic rats and reducing organ damage caused by diabetes.
Accelerating Large Table Scan Using Processing-In-Memory Technology
Authors: Baumstark Alexander , Jibril Muhammad Attahir , Sattler Kai-Uwe
Published: October 2023

Today’s systems are capable of storing large amounts of data in main memory. Particularly, in-memory DBMSs benefit from this development. However, the processing of data from the main memory necessarily has to run via the CPU. This creates a bottleneck, which affects the possible performance of the DBMS. Processing-In-Memory (PIM) is a paradigm to overcome this problem, which was not available in commercial systems for a long time. With the availability of UPMEM, a commercial product is finally available that provides PIM technology in hardware. In this work, we focus on the acceleration of the table scan, a fundamental database query operation. We show and investigate an approach that can be used to optimize this operation by using PIM. We evaluate the PIM scan in terms of parallelism and execution time in benchmarks with different table sizes and compare it to a traditional CPU-based table scan. The result is a PIM table scan that outperforms the CPU-based scan significantly.
Locating community smells in software development processes using higher-order network centralities
Authors: Gote Christoph , Perri Vincenzo , Zingg Christian , Casiraghi Giona , Arzig Carsten , von Gernler Alexander , Schweitzer Frank , Scholtes Ingo
Published: October 2023

Community smells are negative patterns in software development teams’ interactions that impede their ability to successfully create software. Examples are team members working in isolation, lack of communication and collaboration across departments or sub-teams, or areas of the codebase where only a few team members can work on. Current approaches aim to detect community smells by analysing static network representations of software teams’ interaction structures. In doing so, they are insufficient to locate community smells within development processes. Extending beyond the capabilities of traditional social network analysis, we show that higher-order network models provide a robust means of revealing such hidden patterns and complex relationships. To this end, we develop a set of centrality measures based on the higher-order network model and show their effectiveness in predicting influential nodes using five empirical datasets. We then employ these measures for a comprehensive analysis of a product team at the German IT security company genua GmbH, showcasing our method’s success in identifying and locating community smells. Specifically, we uncover critical community smells in two areas of the team’s development process. Semi-structured interviews with five team members validate our findings: while the team was aware of one community smell and employed measures to address it, it was not aware of the second. This highlights the potential of our approach as a robust tool for identifying and addressing community smells in software development teams. More generally, our work contributes to the social network analysis field with a powerful set of higher-order network centralities that effectively capture community dynamics and indirect relationships.
Phylogenetic analysis of the partial sequences of the env and tax BLV genes reveals the presence of genotypes 1 and 3 in dairy herds of Antioquia, Colombia
Authors: Úsuga-Monroy Cristina , Díaz F. J. , González-Herrera Luis Gabriel , Echeverry-Zuluaga José Julián , López-Herrera Albeiro
Published: October 2023

Bovine leukemia virus (BLV) is a retrovirus that primarily infects dairy cows. Although few studies have also used the tax gene, phylogenetic studies of BLV use mostly the env gene. The aim of this work was to establish the circulating genotypes of BLV in specialized dairy cattle from Antioquia, Colombia. Twenty blood samples from Holstein Friesian cows were collected, and their DNA was isolated. A PCR was performed for a partial region of the env and tax genes. A phylogenetic analysis was carried out using the maximum likelihood and Bayesian methods for both genes. Nineteen sequences were identified as genotype 1 by env and tax genes. Only one sequence was clustered with genotype 3 and had the highest proportion of different nucleotide sites compared to other strains. Four amino acid substitutions in the 134 amino acid residue fragment of the Env protein were identified in the Colombian sequences, and three new amino acid substitutions were reported in the 296 amino acid residue fragment of the Tax protein. R43K (Z finger), A185T (Activation domain), and L105F changes were identified in the genotype 3 sample. This genotype has been reported in the United States, Japan, Korea, and Mexico, but so far, not in Colombia. The country has a high rate of imported live animals, semen, and embryos, especially from the United States. Although it is necessary to evaluate samples from other regions of the country, the current results indicate the presence of two BLV genotypes in specialized dairy herds.
Genetic variants of MTHFR gene in relation to folic acid levels and bone mineral density in Polish patients with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Ratajczak-Pawłowska Alicja E. , Hryhorowicz Szymon , Szymczak-Tomczak Aleksandra , Wysocka Ewa , Michalak Michał , Kaczmarek-Ryś Marta , Lis-Tanaś Emilia , Bielawska Lena , Pławski Andrzej , Słomski Ryszard , Dobrowolska Agnieszka , Krela-Kaźmierczak Iwona
Published: October 2023

Lower bone mineral density (BMD) constitutes a common issue in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Studies often explore the association between BMD and folic acid level. The presented study aimed to evaluate the impact of MTHFR gene polymorphism and folic acid levels on BMD in patients with IBDs: Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). The study group comprised IBD patients and a healthy control group. BMD, T-score, and Z-score of the lumbar spine (L1-L4) and femoral neck (FN) were assessed using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Folic acid level was determined using direct chemiluminescence, and the MTHFR 677C > T (rs1801133) and 1298A > C (rs1801131) genotyping were performed by HRMA. Our study found no significant differences in the folic acid levels between the groups. Patients with CD and UC presented a lower BMD, T-score, and Z-score of the FN and L1-L4 than the CG. UC patients who were homozygotes AA in loci c.1298A>C presented lower than controls lumbar spine L1-L4 BMD and T-score values. Regarding MTHFR 677 polymorphism, we found that IBD patients carrying CC genotype demonstrated lower than controls femoral neck Z-score, lumbar spine L1-L4 BMD, T-score and Z-score. MTHFR polymorphisms were found to have no impact on folic acid concentrations. IBD patients presented a higher risk of low BMD than the healthy controls, regardless of MTHFR 677 and 1298 genotypes. However, MTHFR polymorphism may influence on bone in IBD patients. Nevertheless, it appears essential to conduct further studies.
Performance evaluation of microbial fuel cell fabricated using green nano-graphene oxide as coating anode material
Authors: Mohamed Afaf Abdel Razik , Ali Ali El-Dissouky , Hassouna Mohamed Salah El-Din , Elhusseiny Amel F. , Kashyout Abd El-Hady B. , He Zhen , Moustafa Hanan
Published: October 2023

A dual-chamber microbial fuel cell (MFC) was fabricated and optimized for electricity generation. Titanium wire, graphite rod, and carbon cloth supported on stainless steel mesh were the best current collector, anode, and cathode electrode materials, respectively. To enhance the efficacy of the system, carbon-based materials in nano-scale (nanocarbonized materials) were prepared from pomegranate peel waste at different hydrothermal temperatures (300, 500, and 700 oC), and were used as anode coating material. The synthesized coating materials were characterized using EDX, FT-IR, Raman spectroscopy, XRD, TEM, fluorescence, UV, and XPS analyses. Data showed that nanocarbonized material prepared at 500 oC exhibited high surface area (682 m2/g), high pore size (122 nm), and indicated the presence of graphene oxide (GO) structure. The electrochemical behavior of MFC was monitored by cyclic voltammetry and impedance measurements. Results revealed that the anode coated with GO provided high MFC performance with a maximum voltage of around 1000 mV, and a maximum current of 0.1 mA, corresponding to a maximum power density of 12.46 W/m2, which is 2.85-fold higher than that of a cell with a free graphite plate as an anode. Furthermore, the large charge transfer resistance and the low diffusive resistance observed upon coating the anode demonstrated the anode is functioning as a capacitor. The reported results proposed graphene oxide prepared from pomegranate peels as a novel coating anode material prepared from waste sustaining the idea of green curricular economy
Towards a grammar of plant stress: modular signalling conveys meaning
Authors: Nick Peter
Published: October 2023

Stress resilience is central for plant survival. The appropriate adaptive response not only depends on the type of stress, but also on the context with other stresses, the developmental state of the plant, and the history of preceding stress experiences. The response to stress combinations cannot be a mere addition of the responses to the individual factors. For instance, heat stress requires stomatal opening to cool the leaf by increased transpiration, while drought stress needs stomatal closure to reduce water loss by transpiration. However, heat and drought are often coming in concert, such that the plant needs to reach a prioritised decision. Thus, the response to stress combinations constitutes a new quality transcending the addition of individual stress components. In other words: to survive under combined stress, plants need to render real decisions. We propose a model, where different stress inputs share one or more transducing elements, that can be recruited for different downstream pathways. Competition for these shared elements allows for such qualitative decisions, depending on the relative activities in upstream signalling of the individual stress components. Using different types of osmotic stress as paradigm I demonstrates, how signal modularity and differences in temporal sequence can generate qualitatively different outputs. Thus, plant-stress signalling makes use of a limited set of molecular players to generate, by specific rules for their combination and sequence, different “meanings”. This can be compared to human language, where information-bearing elements (words) are combined according to grammatical rules to generate a semantic space. (249 words)
Innovate to Resist: Are Innovators Shielded from External Shocks?
Authors: Iandolo Stefano , Ferragina Anna Maria
Published: October 2023

Economic shocks are often difficult to predict, as they are independent of the will of the economic agents affected and, therefore, exogenous to their choices. However, the effects of such shocks when they occur impact on national economies, business performance, and employment of individuals, thus shaking countries’ economies, and often with long-lasting effects. Although it is difficult to predict their occurrence, it is possible to withstand the consequences of exogenous shocks and be more resilient should they occur. Investing in order to be at the frontier of innovation is one of the tools that economies can adopt to protect their agents, thus defending them from the downturns that can result from unexpected economic events. In this paper, we study whether being more innovative does protect Italian provinces from the negative effects of exogenous shocks, with a focus on employment levels. The object of the analysis is, more specifically, the role of the innovation stock in protecting provinces’ employment levels from trade and economic shocks. The analysis, conducted in the period 2000–2018, examines the effect of trade shock on Italian provinces’ employment levels, and the role of the innovation stock in preserving those levels. Our results confirm that innovative provinces are more protected from external trade and economic shocks, with this effect being evident in both Southern and Northern regions, and despite the level of internationalization of provinces.