bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trace element partitioning in the lunar magma ocean: an experimental study
Authors: Haupt Cordula P. , Renggli Christian J. , Rohrbach Arno , Berndt Jasper , Schwinger Sabrina , Maurice Maxime , Schulze Maximilian , Breuer Doris , Klemme Stephan
Published: April 2024

Modeling the behavior of trace elements during lunar magma ocean solidification is important to further our understanding of the chemical evolution of the Moon. Lunar magma ocean evolution models rely on consistent datasets on how trace elements partition between a lunar silicate melt and coexisting minerals at different pressures, temperatures, and redox conditions. Here we report new experimental trace element partition coefficients (D) between clinopyroxene (cpx), pigeonite, orthopyroxene, plagioclase, olivine (ol), and silicate melt at conditions relevant for the lunar magma ocean. The data include Dcpx−melt at ambient and high pressures (1.5 GPa and 1310 °C), and partition coefficients at ambient pressure for pig, opx, ol, and pl. Overall, clinopyroxene is a phase that may control the fractionation of key geochemical trace element ratios, such as Lu/Hf and Sm/Nd, during the evolution of the lunar magma ocean. We explore the impact of the new silicate Dmineral−melt on the trace element evolution of the lunar magma ocean and we find that accessory phosphate minerals, such as apatite or whitlockite are of critical importance to explain the observed trace element and isotopic signature of the KREEP reservoir on the Moon. The new partition coefficients were applied to calculate the trace element evolution of the residual melts of the crystallizing lunar magma ocean and we propose a new trace element composition for the urKREEP reservoir. The new data will be useful for future thermo-chemical models in order to adequately predict the duration of the lunar magma ocean and the age of the Moon.
Hazard function analysis of prognosis after recurrent colorectal cancer
Authors: Ise Ichiro , Kawai Kazushige , Nakano Daisuke , Takao Misato , Natsume Soichiro , Kato Hiroki , Nakamori Sakiko , Dejima Akira , Yamaguchi Tatsuro
Published: April 2024

Background and objectives

Mean survival time (MST) is used as the indicator of prognosis in patients with a colorectal cancer (CRC) recurrence. The present study aimed to visualize the changes in death risk after a CRC recurrence using hazard function analysis (HFA) to provide an alternative prognostic indicator to MST.

Methods

The medical records of 725 consecutive patients with a recurrence following R0 radical surgery for CRC were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

The five-year, post-recurrence survival rate was 37.8%, and the MST was 3.5 years while the risk of death peaked at 2.9 years post-recurrence. Seven variables were found to predict short-term survival, including the number of metastatic organs ≥ 2, non-surgical treatment for the recurrence, and a short interval before recurrence. In patients with a recurrence in one organ, the MST was four years, the peak time of death predicted by HFA was 2.9 years, and the five-year survival rate was 45.8%. In patients with a surgical resection of the recurrence, the MST was 8 years, the peak time of death was 3.3 years, and the five-year survival rate was 62%.

Conclusions

The present study established a novel method of assessing changes in mortality risk over time using HFA in patients with a CRC recurrence.
The mesenteric entry site as a potential weak point in gastrointestinal anastomoses – findings from an ex-vivo biomechanical analysis
Authors: Cira Kamacay , Janett Saskia Nicole , Micheler Carina , Heller Stephan , Obermeier Andreas , Friess Helmut , Burgkart Rainer , Neumann Philipp-Alexander
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Gastrointestinal disorders frequently necessitate surgery involving intestinal resection and anastomosis formation, potentially leading to severe complications like anastomotic leakage (AL) which is associated with increased morbidity, mortality, and adverse oncologic outcomes. While extensive research has explored the biology of anastomotic healing, there is limited understanding of the biomechanical properties of gastrointestinal anastomoses, which was aimed to be unraveled in this study.

Methods

An ex-vivo model was developed for the biomechanical analysis of 32 handsewn porcine end-to-end anastomoses, using interrupted and continuous suture techniques subjected to different flow models. While multiple cameras captured different angles of the anastomosis, comprehensive data recording of pressure, time, and temperature was performed simultaneously. Special focus was laid on monitoring time, location and pressure of anastomotic leakage (LP) and bursting pressures (BP) depending on suture techniques and flow models.

Results

Significant differences in LP, BP, and time intervals were observed based on the flow model but not on the suture techniques applied. Interestingly, anastomoses at the insertion site of the mesentery exhibited significantly higher rates of leakage and bursting compared to other sections of the anastomosis.

Conclusion

The developed ex-vivo model facilitated comparable, reproducible, and user-independent biomechanical analyses. Assessing biomechanical properties of anastomoses offers an advantage in identifying technical weak points to refine surgical techniques, potentially reducing complications like AL. The results indicate that mesenteric insertion serves as a potential weak spot for AL, warranting further investigations and refinements in surgical techniques to optimize outcomes in this critical area of anastomotic procedures.
Membrane potential dynamics of C5a-stimulated neutrophil granulocytes
Authors: Becker Stina , Swoboda Aljoscha , Siemer Henrik , Schimmelpfennig Sandra , Sargin Sarah , Shahin Victor , Schwab Albrecht , Najder Karolina
Published: April 2024

Neutrophil granulocytes play a crucial role in host defense against invading pathogens and in inflammatory diseases. The aim of this study was to elucidate membrane potential dynamics during the initial phase of neutrophil activation and its relation to migration and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). We performed ROS production measurements of neutrophils from healthy C57BL/6J mice after TNFα-priming and/or C5a stimulation. The actin cytoskeleton was visualized with fluorescence microscopy. Furthermore, we combined migration assays and measurements of membrane potential dynamics after stimulating unprimed and/or TNFα-primed neutrophils with C5a. We show that C5a has a concentration-dependent effect on ROS production and chemokinetic migration. Chemokinetic migration and chemotaxis are impaired at C5a concentrations that induce ROS production. The actin cytoskeleton of unstimulated and of ROS-producing neutrophils is not distributed in a polarized way. Inhibition of the phagocytic NADPH oxidase NOX2 with diphenyleneiodonium (DPI) leads to a polarized distribution of the actin cytoskeleton and rescues chemokinetic migration of primed and C5a-stimulated neutrophils. Moreover, C5a evokes a pronounced depolarization of the cell membrane potential by 86.6 ± 4.2 mV starting from a resting membrane potential of -74.3 ± 0.7 mV. The C5a-induced depolarization occurs almost instantaneously (within less than one minute) in contrast to the more gradually developing depolarization induced by PMA (lag time of 3—4 min). This initial depolarization is accompanied by a decrease of the migration velocity. Collectively, our results show that stimulation with C5a evokes parallel changes in membrane potential dynamics, neutrophil ROS production and motility. Notably, the amplitude of membrane potential dynamics is comparable to that of excitable cells.
Controlling response order without relying on stimulus order – evidence for flexible representations of task order
Authors: Kürten Jens , Strobach Tilo , Huestegge Lynn
Published: April 2024

In dual-task situations, both component tasks are typically not executed simultaneously but rather one after another. Task order is usually determined based on bottom-up information provided by stimulus presentation order, but also affected by top-down factors such as instructions and/or differentially dominant component tasks (e.g., oculomotor task prioritization). Recent research demonstrated that in the context of a randomly switching stimulus order, task order representations can be integrated with specific component task information rather than being coded in a purely abstract fashion (i.e., by containing only generic order information). This conclusion was derived from observing consistently smaller task-order switch costs for a preferred (e.g., oculomotor-manual) versus a non-preferred (e.g., manual-oculomotor) task order (i.e., order-switch cost asymmetries). Since such a representational format might have been especially promoted by the sequential stimulus presentation employed, we investigated task-order representations in situations without any bottom-up influence of stimulus order. To this end, we presented task stimuli simultaneously and cued the required task-order in advance. Experiment 1 employed abstract order transition cues that only indicated a task-order repetition (vs. switch) relative to the previous trial, while Experiment 2 used explicit cues that unambiguously indicated the task-order. Experiment 1 revealed significant task-order switch costs only for the second task (of either task order) and no order-switch cost asymmetries, indicating a rather generic representation of task order. Experiment 2 revealed task-order switch costs in both component tasks with a trend toward order-switch cost asymmetries, indicating an integration of task order representations with component task information. These findings highlight an astonishing flexibility of mental task-order representations during task-order control.
The role of histological subtype and chemotherapy on prognosis of ureteral cancer
Authors: Li Jincong , Song Yuxuan , Peng Yun , Lin Jiaxing , Du Yiqing , Qin Caipeng , Xu Tao
Published: April 2024

Objective

To date, there have been few studies examining the prognostic implications of histological subtypes in ureteral cancer. And chemotherapy plays a crucial role in the treatment of ureteral cancer, while many factors influence the efficacy of chemotherapy. This study aimed to utilize the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results database to assess the impact of histological type on ureteral cancer prognostic outcomes and discovered how histological type and T-stage influence the efficacy of chemotherapy.

Methods

Based on Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program, we reviewed 8915 records of patients with primary ureteral cancer from 18 centers between 2000 and 2018. We focused on the overall survival and cancer-specific survival of the records and used Kaplan‒Meier method to calculate survival curves.

Results

In the comparison of prognostic outcomes, atypical subtypes exhibited a less favorable prognosis compared to typical ureteral carcinoma. Notably, patients diagnosed with papillary urothelial carcinoma demonstrated the most favorable overall survival (p = 0.005). Statistically significant benefits were observed in the prognosis of patients with non-papillary urothelial carcinoma who received chemotherapy (HR = 0.860, 95% CI 0.764–0.966, p = 0.011), while chemotherapy did not yield a statistically significant effect on the prognosis of patients with papillary urothelial carcinoma (HR = 1.055, 95% CI 0.906–1.228, p = 0.493). Chemotherapy had an adverse impact on the prognosis of patients with T1 ureteral cancer (HR = 1.235, 95% CI 1.016–1.502, p = 0.034), whereas it exhibited a positive prognostic effect for T3/T4 cases (HR = 0.739, 95% CI 0.654–0.835, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Histological type affects the prognosis of ureteral cancer. And evaluation of cancer histological type and T stage in ureteral cancer patients prior to chemotherapy is mandatory.
Vertical stratification and defensive traits of caterpillars against parasitoids in a lowland tropical forest in Cameroon
Authors: Finnie Sam , Butterill Philip , Novotny Vojtech , Redmond Conor , Jorge Leonardo Ré , Abe Tomokazu , Lamarre Greg P. A. , Maicher Vincent , Sam Katerina
Published: April 2024

Insect herbivores and their parasitoids play a crucial role in terrestrial trophic interactions in tropical forests. These interactions occur across the entire vertical gradient of the forest. This study compares how caterpillar communities, and their parasitism rates, vary across vertical strata and between caterpillar defensive strategies in a semi deciduous tropical forest in Nditam, Cameroon. Within a 0.1 ha plot, all trees with a diameter at breast height (DBH) ≥ 5 cm were felled and systematically searched for caterpillars. We divided the entire vertical gradient of the forest into eight, five-metre strata. All caterpillars were assigned to a stratum based on their collection height, reared, identified, and classified into one of three defensive traits: aposematic, cryptic and shelter-building. Caterpillar species richness and diversity showed a midstory peak, whereas density followed the opposite pattern, decreasing in the midstory and then increasing towards the highest strata. This trend was driven by some highly dense shelter-building caterpillars in the upper canopy. Specialisation indices indicated decreasing levels of caterpillar generality with increasing height, a midstory peak in vulnerability, and increasing connectance towards the upper canopy, although the latter was likely driven by decreasing network size. Both aposematic and shelter-building caterpillars had significantly higher parasitism rates than cryptic caterpillars. Our results highlight nuanced changes in caterpillar communities across forest strata and provide evidence that defences strategies are important indicators of parasitism rates in caterpillars and that both aposematic and shelter-building caterpillars could be considered a “safe haven” for parasitoids.
On the Banach–Mazur Distance in Small Dimensions
Authors: Kobos Tomasz , Varivoda Marin
Published: April 2024

We establish some results on the Banach–Mazur distance in small dimensions. Specifically, we determine the Banach–Mazur distance between the cube and its dual (the cross-polytope) in$$\mathbb {R}^3$$R3and$$\mathbb {R}^4$$R4. In dimension three this distance is equal to$$\frac{9}{5}$$95, and in dimension four, it is equal to 2. These findings confirm well-known conjectures, which were based on numerical data. Additionally, in dimension two, we use the asymmetry constant to provide a geometric construction of a family of convex bodies that are equidistant to all symmetric convex bodies.
An energy-efficient GMRES–multigrid solver for space-time finite element computation of dynamic poroelasticity
Authors: Anselmann Mathias , Bause Markus , Margenberg Nils , Shamko Pavel
Published: April 2024

We present and analyze computationally Geometric MultiGrid (GMG) preconditioning techniques for Generalized Minimal RESidual (GMRES) iterations to space-time finite element methods (STFEMs) for a coupled hyperbolic–parabolic system modeling, for instance, flow in deformable porous media. By using a discontinuous temporal test basis, a time marching scheme is obtained. Higher order approximations that offer the potential to inherit most of the rich structure of solutions to the continuous problem on computationally feasible grids increase the block partitioning dimension of the algebraic systems, comprised of generalized saddle point blocks. Our V-cycle GMG preconditioner uses a local Vanka-type smoother. Its action is defined in an exact mathematical way. Due to nonlocal coupling mechanisms of 348 unknowns, the smoother is applied on patches of elements. This ensures damping of higher order error frequencies. By numerical experiments of increasing complexity, the efficiency of the solver for STFEMs of different polynomial order is illustrated and confirmed. Its parallel scalability is analyzed. Beyond this study of classical performance engineering, the solver’s energy efficiency is investigated as an additional and emerging dimension in the design and tuning of algorithms on the hardware.
Nonlocal approximation of nonlinear diffusion equations
Authors: Carrillo José Antonio , Esposito Antonio , Wu Jeremy Sheung-Him
Published: April 2024

We show that degenerate nonlinear diffusion equations can be asymptotically obtained as a limit from a class of nonlocal partial differential equations. The nonlocal equations are obtained as gradient flows of interaction-like energies approximating the internal energy. We construct weak solutions as the limit of a (sub)sequence of weak measure solutions by using the Jordan-Kinderlehrer-Otto scheme from the context of 2-Wasserstein gradient flows. Our strategy allows to cover the porous medium equation, for the general slow diffusion case, extending previous results in the literature. As a byproduct of our analysis, we provide a qualitative particle approximation.
Sharp uniform bound for the quaternionic Monge-Ampère equation on hyperhermitian manifolds
Authors: Sroka Marcin
Published: April 2024

We provide the sharp $$C^0$$

C
0

estimate for the quaternionic Monge-Ampère equation on any hyperhermitian manifold. This improves previously known results concerning this estimate in two directions. Namely, it turns out that the estimate depends only on $$L^p$$

L
p

norm of the right hand side for any $$p>2$$

p
>
2

(as suggested by the local case studied in Sroka (Anal. PDE 13(6):1755-1776, 2020)). Moreover, the estimate still holds true for any hyperhermitian initial metric - regardless of it being HKT as in the original conjecture of Alesker and Verbitsky (Isr. J. Math. 176:109-138, 2010) - as speculated by the author in Sroka (Monge-Ampére equation in hypercomplex geometry, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, 2021). For completeness, we actually provide a sharp uniform estimate for many quaternionic PDEs, in particular those given by the operator dominating the quaternionic Monge-Ampére operator, by applying the recent method of Guo and Phong (On L$$^\infty $$

∞

estimates for fully nonlinear partial differential equations on hermitian manifolds).
Maintaining a gluten-free diet is associated with quality of life in youths with type 1 diabetes and celiac disease
Authors: Franceschi Roberto , Pertile Riccardo , Marigliano Marco , Mozzillo Enza , Maffeis Claudio , Di Candia Francesca , Fedi Ludovica , Iafusco Dario , Zanfardino Angela , Passanisi Stefano , Lombardo Fortunato , Delvecchio Maurizio , Caldarelli Gaia , Troncone Alda
Published: April 2024

Aim

Conflicting findings have been reported on whether in youths, the double diagnosis of type 1 diabetes (T1D) and celiac disease (CD) substantially impacts quality of life QoL, compared to subjects with T1D only.

Methods

In this study, 86 youths with double diagnosis and their parents were compared to 167 subjects with T1D only. QoL was assessed through the KINDL questionnaire. Anti-tissue transglutaminase antibodies and dietary interviews evaluated the degree of maintaining a gluten-free diet (GFD).

Results

We found that having CD in addition to T1D has little effect on overall QoL. However, analysis of the degree of maintaining GFD revealed significantly lower total QoL scores in groups with T1D + CD not strictly maintaining GFD compared to T1D only (p = 0.0014). The multivariable linear regression model confirmed the importance of maintaining GFD on QoL in subjects (p = 0.0066) and parents (p = 0.023).

Conclusion

The coexistence of T1D and CD and the adoption of a GFD resulted in poor QoL levels, as in youth as in their parents, when difficulties implementing the GFD are present. Psychological support should consider the importance of maintaining GFD not only to prevent potential complications in the future but also to improve actual QoL in different subdomains.
Current trends in basic research on Parkinson’s disease: from mitochondria, lysosome to α-synuclein
Authors: Matsui Hideaki , Takahashi Ryosuke
Published: April 2024

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra and other brain regions. A key pathological feature of PD is the abnormal accumulation of α-synuclein protein within affected neurons, manifesting as Lewy bodies and Lewy neurites. Despite extensive research efforts spanning several decades, the underlying mechanisms of PD and disease-modifying therapies remain elusive. This review provides an overview of current trends in basic research on PD. Initially, it discusses the involvement of mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathogenesis of PD, followed by insights into the role of lysosomal dysfunction and disruptions in the vesicular transport system. Additionally, it delves into the pathological and physiological roles of α-synuclein, a crucial protein associated with PD pathophysiology. Overall, the purpose of this review is to comprehend the current state of elucidating the intricate mechanisms underlying PD and to outline future directions in understanding this disease.
Projections of meteorological drought events in the upper Kızılırmak basin under climate change scenarios
Authors: Selçuk Sefa Furkan , Çirci Selçuk Burcu , Sarıoğlu Cebeci Meltem
Published: April 2024

Climate change, whose negative impacts are becoming increasingly apparent as a result of human actions, intensifies the drought problems to dangerous levels. The development of local-scale drought projections is crucial to take necessary precautions for potential risks and possible effects of drought. In this study, drought analysis was conducted in the Upper Kızılırmak Basin using the standard precipitation index (SPI) method for the near future (2020–2049), mid-century (2050–2074), and late century (2075–2099). The precipitation data required for the SPI were gathered from the data sets developed for the SSP climate change scenarios of the four chosen global climate models. Precipitation data has been made more convenient for local analysis studies with the statistical downscaling method. Forecasts have been created for the temporal variation and spatial distribution of drought events. The study findings indicate that, under the SSP 2-4.5 scenario, drought-related effects of climate change will decrease until 2100. On the other hand, the number and severity of drought events, as well as the duration of dry periods, will increase until 2100 under the SSP 5-8.5 scenario. According to the SSP 5-8.5 scenario, consisting of the most pessimistic forecasts, moderate drought will last 0–60 months, severe drought will last 0–30 months, and extreme drought will last 0–20 months in different regions of the area in the late century. The spatial distribution of droughts will differ based on the SPI index and climate change scenarios. Comparison of SPI and CZI data showed that both indices are effective in meteorological drought analyses.
Cold spells in the city of Poznań and their circulation conditions
Authors: Tomczyk Arkadiusz M. , Miś Filip , Mendel Karolina , Półrolniczak Marek , Bednorz Ewa
Published: April 2024

This study analyzed the occurrence of cold days, very cold days and cold spells in Poznań in the years 2008/09-2022/23. A cold day was defined as a day with Tmax < 0.0 °C and ≥-10.0 °C, whereas a very cold day was defined as a day with Tmax <-10.0 °C. In the next step, cold spells were determined, which are sequences of at least 5 days with Tmax < 0.0 °C. Circulation conditions were determined based on daily values of sea-level pressure, the height of the 500 hPa isobaric surface, as well as their anomalies and air temperature anomalies at the 850 hPa isobaric level. The conducted research showed a decrease in the number of cold and very cold days in Poznań in the years 2008/09-2022/23. A variation in the number of cold and very cold days and cold spells was noted across the city area, which is a consequence of the form of land use. The occurrence of cold spells in Poznań was associated with higher than average sea-level pressure.
English version of Japanese Clinical Practice Guidelines 2022 for gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) issued by the Japan Society of Clinical Oncology
Authors: Hirota Seiichi , Tateishi Ukihide , Nakamoto Yuji , Yamamoto Hidetaka , Sakurai Shinji , Kikuchi Hirotoshi , Kanda Tatsuo , Kurokawa Yukinori , Cho Haruhiko , Nishida Toshirou , Sawaki Akira , Ozaka Masato , Komatsu Yoshito , Naito Yoichi , Honma Yoshitaka , Takahashi Fumiaki , Hashimoto Hironobu , Udo Midori , Araki Minako , Nishidate Sumito ,   Members of the Systematic Review Team of the Present Guidelines
Published: April 2024

The Japan Society of Clinical Oncology Clinical Practice Guidelines 2022 for gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) have been published in accordance with the Minds Manual for Guideline Development 2014 and 2017. A specialized team independent of the working group for the revision performed a systematic review. Since GIST is a rare type of tumor, clinical evidence is not sufficient to answer several clinical and background questions. Thus, in these guidelines, we considered that consensus among the experts who manage GIST, the balance between benefits and harms, patients’ wishes, medical economic perspective, etc. are important considerations in addition to the evidence. Although guidelines for the treatment of GIST have also been published by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) and the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO), there are some differences between the treatments proposed in those guidelines and the treatments in the present guidelines because of the differences in health insurance systems among countries.
Letermovir safety and efficacy for cytomegalovirus prophylaxis in adult Japanese kidney transplant recipients: a multicenter, open-label, noncomparative Phase 3 study
Authors: Ishida Hideki , Goto Norihiko , Imamura Ryoichi , Sasaki Hajime , Unagami Kohei , Futamura Kenta , Murata Yoshihiko , Oshima Nobuyuki , Eto Toshiko , Haber Barbara
Published: April 2024

Background

Letermovir is approved for cytomegalovirus (CMV) prophylaxis in adult allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation recipients worldwide and is also approved in the United States for CMV prophylaxis in adult high-risk (D+/R−) kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). The safety and efficacy of letermovir for CMV prophylaxis in adult Japanese KTRs are reported here.

Methods

In this Phase 3, single-arm, open-label study, adult Japanese KTRs with CMV serostatuses D+/R−, D+/R+, and D−/R+ received letermovir 480 mg daily orally within 7 days post-transplant through Week 28. Participants were followed through Week 52. The primary objective was to evaluate letermovir safety and tolerability. Efficacy was a secondary objective, measured by CMV disease, CMV disease or infection requiring intervention, and quantifiable CMV DNAemia. All CMV disease cases were confirmed by an independent adjudication committee.

Results

Among 22 participants (12 were D+/R−) who received letermovir prophylaxis, 20 (90.9%) experienced ≥ 1 AE through Week 28. Most AEs were mild to moderate in severity; no deaths were reported. During the prophylaxis period through Week 28, one transient case of quantifiable CMV DNAemia was detected, but no CMV disease or infection requiring intervention was reported. Through Week 52, four D+/R− participants met the endpoint of CMV disease or infection requiring intervention, of whom two had committee-confirmed CMV syndrome; all recovered with CMV therapy. A total of 5 participants had quantifiable CMV DNAemia through Week 52.

Conclusion

Letermovir was generally well tolerated, and the data support its use for the prevention of CMV disease/infection in adult Japanese KTRs.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04129398.
Perceived authenticity across three forms of educational simulations—the role of interactant representation, task alignment, and continuity of simulation
Authors: Corves Caroline , Stadler Matthias , Fischer Martin R.
Published: April 2024

Authenticity in simulation-based learning is linked to cognitive processes implicated in learning. However, evidence on authenticity across formats is insufficient. We compared three case-based settings and investigated the effect of discontinuity in simulation on perceived authenticity.  In a quasi-experiment, we compared formats of simulation in the context of medical education. All formats simulated anamnestic interviews with varying interactant and task representations using highly comparable designs. Interactants (patients) were simulated by (a) live actors (standardized patients), (b) live fellow students (roleplays), or (c) question menus and videoclips (virtual patients). The continuity of simulations varied. We measured perceived authenticity with three subscales: Realness, Involvement, and Spatial Presence. We employed confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to assess measurement invariance across settings and analysis of variance on authenticity ratings to compare the effects of setting and discontinuous simulation. CFA supported the assumption of invariance. Settings differed in Realness and Spatial Presence but not Involvement. Discontinuous simulations yielded significantly lower ratings of authenticity than continuous simulations. The compared simulation modalities offer different advantages with respect to their perceived authenticity profiles. Lower levels of interactivity and reduced subtask representation do not necessarily lead to lower ratings of perceived authenticity. Spatial Presence can be as high for media-based simulation as for roleplays. Discontinuation of simulations by offering scaffolding impairs perceived authenticity. Scaffolds may be designed to avoid discontinuation of simulation to uphold perceived authenticity.
Resin tapping of Atlantic pine forests: towards an optimized use of stimulant pastes over the season
Authors: Lema Margarita , Touza Roberto , Feijoo David , Bustingorri Gloria , Martínez Érika , Zas Rafael
Published: April 2024

Pine resin is a valuable non-wood forest product with an increasing interest in multiple industrial sectors. Resin-tapping activities also provide valuable ecosystem services in timber-oriented and highly productive pine forest of Atlantic regions, where little previous experience in resin-tapping is available. The objectives of this study were to determine the efficiency of different stimulant pastes and its variation with pine species, site conditions, seasonality and frequency of tapping interventions. We conducted parallel experiments using both conventional and micro-tapping techniques in mature pine stands in NW Spain. We tested four stimulants (control and Zeta, Cunningham and Salicylic pastes) and two groove frequencies (every 2 or 3 weeks). All stimulant pastes significantly increased resin yield compared to the control, being resin stimulation highly consistent across years, sites and species. In conventional resin tapping, resin yield was maximized with the Cunningham and Salicylic pastes while in micro-tapping Salicylic was the most outstanding stimulant treatment. According to the rapid decay of resin flow after wounding, total resin yield decreased with more spaced grooves. However, the reduction was low, and the global efficiency of the tapping operations are likely maximized with grooves applied every three weeks, which would allow increasing the number of tapped trees. Micro-tapping techniques were valuable for screening stimulant pastes and anticipating variation among sites in resin production. Altogether, the Salicylic paste is recommended, especially at the beginning of the resin campaign, when the effect of the pastes was maximized, and if tapping is conducted using closed atmospheres and containers.
Vertical variation in swelling properties of Norway spruce bark depending on tree age and bark moisture content
Authors: Ilek Anna , Płachta Agnieszka , Siegert Courtney , Campos Sergio Dias , Szostek Małgorzata , Tonello Kelly Cristina
Published: April 2024

In forest ecosystems, interception of rainwater on foliar and woody surfaces and the subsequent partitioning into stemflow is largely controlled by physical and hydrological properties of bark. Few forest ecohydrology studies have explored the role of bark properties (e.g., thickness, density) on bark water storage capacity and stemflow production. Even fewer have explored how different phases of water (e.g., liquid, vapor) may affect bark through bark swelling properties across the stem and how the degree of swelling affects tradeoffs between bark water storage and stemflow generation. Thus, the objective of this study was to analyze changes in a bark swelling index (BSI) vertically along stems of Picea abies (Norway spruce) after exposure to both water vapor and liquid water, as a function of tree age and bark moisture content. We found that tree age influenced BSI and bark moisture content, wherein BSI was ∼ 6.5% lower in older trees (70 years) compared to younger trees (35 and 50 years), and average moisture content was 10.4–13.2% lower. BSI increased when bark was exposed to hygroscopic water vapor and reached maximum swelling after 1 day of water saturation. BSI also increased from the base of the tree to 20–30% of total tree height, beyond which BSI remained relatively stable across all age classes. Enhanced understanding of bark swelling mechanisms as a result of stem position, age, and moisture content and exposure provide stronger foundations for understanding canopy hydrologic partitioning and the fate of rainwater moving through forest canopies.
Correlation between extraocular muscle enlargement and thyroid autoantibodies in thyroid eye disease
Authors: Koizumi Takahiro , Tanaka Takahiro , Umeda Kazuki , Komiyama Daisuke , Obata Hiroto
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the factors affecting extraocular muscle enlargement in thyroid eye disease (TED).

Study design

Retrospective study.

Methods

The thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) receptor antibody (TRAb), thyroid-stimulating antibody (TSAb), antithyroid peroxidase antibody (ATPO), and antithyroglobulin antibody (ATG) levels in patients diagnosed with TED who underwent orbital magnetic resonance imaging were assessed. The control group comprised the contralateral eye of patients who underwent orbital magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for unilateral eyelid tumors or orbital disease. The thickness of the bilateral rectus muscles and superior oblique muscles was measured on orbital MRI. Muscle enlargement was classified as unilateral/bilateral and symmetric/asymmetric. The effects of age, sex, smoking history, TSH, thyroid hormone, and thyroid autoantibodies on the muscle thickness and number of enlarged muscles were assessed by use of simple and multiple regression analyses.

Results

The TED and control groups comprised 41 and 44 cases, respectively. The positivity rate of TSAb in patients with TED was 92.7% higher than that of the other autoantibodies. Muscle enlargement was observed in 29 of the 41 cases (70.7%). Older age and higher TSAb levels were identified as significant factors affecting the total muscle thickness and number of enlarged muscles. Bilateral muscle enlargement and asymmetrical muscle enlargement were observed in 17 (58.6%) and 23 (79.3%) of the 29 cases, respectively. The TSAb levels and age had no significant effect on the type of muscle enlargement.

Conclusions

TSAb showed significant associations with extraocular muscle enlargement. Measurement of TSAb, rather than of TRAb, may be more useful for diagnosing extraocular muscle enlargement in patients with TED.
Synthesis of Na-Alginate templated Montmorillonite-Silica Composite as adsorbent for removal of Rhodamine B
Authors: Deveci İlyas
Published: April 2024

In this study, mesoporous Montmorillonite-Silica composites prepared by using different amount Alginate as sacrificial template, for removal of Rhodamine B is investigated. By alternating Alginate amount it is aimed to switch the porosity of adsorbents thus the adsorption capacities of adsorbents. Synthesized adsorbents had been characterized by using Scanning Electron Microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and N2-Ads/Des techniques. It is observed that beside the decrease in the micropore volume, the total pore volume of the adsorbents increased with the increasing of used Alginate amount. The total pore volumes of adsorbents synthesized with different Clay/Alginate ratio (10, 5, 1) were found as 0.116, 0.172, and 0.178 cm3/g, respectively. Batch adsorption studies showed that the maximum removal efficiencies were obtained at acidic conditions and the adsorbents had better fit with Freundlich isotherm. Qm values obtained from Langmuir isotherm were found as 24.47, 31.97 and 28.48 mg/g for synthesized adsorbents. Also, adsorption kinetic studies showed that for all adsorbents, experimental data had good fit to the pseudo-second order kinetics model. The model parameters were found as 5.9,6.3 and 6.5 (10–3 g/ (mg min). Thermodynamic parameters were also investigated in the study. Negative ∆Go values pointed out that the adsorption of RhB onto synthesized adsorbents was favorable process. Positive values of ∆Ho and ΔS indicated that the adsorption of RhB on adsorbents were endothermic and rising of randomness during the adsorption of RhB on the surface of the adsorbent. Adsorbents could be recovered at least five times without significant decrease in adsorption capacity.
Early Effects of Scaling Up Dolutegravir-Based ARV Regimens Among Children Living with HIV in Malawi
Authors: Makonokaya Lucky , Maida Alice , Kalitera Louiser Upile , Wang Alice , Kapanda Lester , Kayira Dumbani , Bottoman Madalitso , Nkhoma Harrid , Dunga Shalom , Joaki Zuze , Chamanga Rachel , Nkanaunena Kondwani , Hrapcak Susan , Nyirenda Rose , Chiwandira Brown , Maulidi Martin , Woelk Godfrey , Machekano Rhoderick , Maphosa Thulani
Published: April 2024

Viral suppression (VS) in children has remained suboptimal compared to that in adults. We evaluated the impact of transitioning children weighing < 20 kg to a pediatric formulation of dolutegravir (pDTG) on VS in Malawi. We analyzed routine retrospective program data from electronic medical record systems pooled across 169 healthcare facilities in Malawi supported by the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation (EGPAF). We included children who weighed < 20 kg and received antiretroviral therapy (ART) between July 2021–June 2022. Using descriptive statistics, we summarized demographic and clinical characteristics, ART regimens, ART adherence, and VS. We used logistic regression to identify factors associated with post-transition VS. A total of 2468 Children Living with HIV (CLHIV) were included, 55.3% of whom were < 60 months old. Most (83.8%) had initiated on non-DTG-based ART; 71.0% of these had a viral load (VL) test result before transitioning to pDTG, and 62.5% had VS. Nearly all (99.9%) CLHIV transitioned to pDTG-based regimens. Six months after the transition, 52.7% had good ART adherence, and 38.6% had routine VL testing results; 81.7% achieved VS. Post-transition VS was associated with good adherence and pre-transition VS: adjusted odds ratios of 2.79 (95% CI 1.65–4.71), p < 0.001 and 5.32 (95% CI 3.23–9.48), p < 0.001, respectively. After transitioning to pDTG, VS was achieved in most children tested within the first 6 months. However, adherence remained suboptimal post-transition and VL testing at 6 months was limited. Interventions to improve VL testing and enhance ART adherence are still needed in CLHIV on pDTG-based regimens.
Lob-based deep learning models for stock price trend prediction: a benchmark study
Authors: Prata Matteo , Masi Giuseppe , Berti Leonardo , Arrigoni Viviana , Coletta Andrea , Cannistraci Irene , Vyetrenko Svitlana , Velardi Paola , Bartolini Novella
Published: April 2024

The recent advancements in Deep Learning (DL) research have notably influenced the finance sector. We examine the robustness and generalizability of fifteen state-of-the-art DL models focusing on Stock Price Trend Prediction (SPTP) based on Limit Order Book (LOB) data. To carry out this study, we developed LOBCAST, an open-source framework that incorporates data preprocessing, DL model training, evaluation, and profit analysis. Our extensive experiments reveal that all models exhibit a significant performance drop when exposed to new data, thereby raising questions about their real-world market applicability. Our work serves as a benchmark, illuminating the potential and the limitations of current approaches and providing insight for innovative solutions.
A new semi-local centrality for identifying influential nodes based on local average shortest path with extended neighborhood
Authors: Xiao Yi , Chen Yuan , Zhang Hongyan , Zhu Xinghui , Yang Yimin , Zhu Xiaoping
Published: April 2024

Quantifying the importance of nodes in complex networks is known as the problem of identifying influential nodes and is considered a critical aspect in interacting with these networks. This problem has many applications such as controlling rumors, sickness spreading, and viral marketing, where its importance has been understood by the research society in the last decade. This paper proposes a new semi-local centrality to identify influential nodes in complex networks based on the theory of Local Average Shortest Path with extended Neighborhood concept (LASPN). LASPN focuses on a distributed technique to extract the subgraph associated with each node and apply the average shortest path theory to it. We use the extended neighborhood concept to find the nearest neighbors of each node with low complexity, where this can lead to high efficiency in dealing with large-scale networks. In addition to applying relative changes in the average shortest path, the proposed metric considers the importance of the node itself as well as its nearest neighbors in ranking the nodes. Evaluation of the proposed centrality metric has been done through numerical simulations on several real-world networks. The results based on Kendall's $$\tau$$
τ
coefficient under the SIR infection spreading model show that LASPN improves the performance by 2.7% compared to the best available equivalent method.
Targeting PNPO to suppress tumor growth via inhibiting autophagic flux and to reverse paclitaxel resistance in ovarian cancer
Authors: Li Xin , Guan Wencai , Liu Huiqiang , Yuan Jia , Wang Fanchen , Guan Bin , Chen Junyu , Lu Qi , Zhang Lingyun , Xu Guoxiong
Published: April 2024

Our previous study showed that pyridoxine 5’-phosphate oxidase (PNPO) is a tissue biomarker of ovarian cancer (OC) and has a prognostic implication but detailed mechanisms remain unclear. The current study focused on PNPO-regulated lysosome/autophagy-mediated cellular processes and the potential role of PNPO in chemoresistance. We found that PNPO was overexpressed in OC cells and was a prognostic factor in OC patients. PNPO significantly promoted cell proliferation via the regulation of cyclin B1 and phosphorylated CDK1 and shortened the G2M phase in a cell cycle. Overexpressed PNPO enhanced the biogenesis and perinuclear distribution of lysosomes, promoting the degradation of autophagosomes and boosting the autophagic flux. Further, an autolysosome marker LAMP2 was upregulated in OC cells. Silencing LAMP2 suppressed cell growth and induced cell apoptosis. LAMP2-siRNA blocked PNPO action in OC cells, indicating that the function of PNPO on cellular processes was mediated by LAMP2. These data suggest the existence of the PNPO-LAMP2 axis. Moreover, silencing PNPO suppressed xenographic tumor formation. Chloroquine counteracted the promotion effect of PNPO on autophagic flux and inhibited OC cell survival, facilitating the inhibitory effect of PNPO-shRNA on tumor growth in vivo. Finally, PNPO was overexpressed in paclitaxel-resistant OC cells. PNPO-siRNA enhanced paclitaxel sensitivity in vitro and in vivo. In conclusion, PNPO has a regulatory effect on lysosomal biogenesis that in turn promotes autophagic flux, leading to OC cell proliferation, and tumor formation, and is a paclitaxel-resistant factor. These data imply a potential application by targeting PNPO to suppress tumor growth and reverse PTX resistance in OC.
MARCH5 promotes aerobic glycolysis to facilitate ovarian cancer progression via ubiquitinating MPC1
Authors: Xu Ying , Zhao Shuhua , Shen Yujie , Li Yuanfeng , Dang Yinghui , Guo Fenfen , Chen Zhihao , Li Jia , Yang Hong
Published: April 2024

MARCH5 is a ring-finger E3 ubiquitin ligase located in the outer membrane of mitochondria. A previous study has reported that MARCH5 was up-regulated and contributed to the migration and invasion of OC cells by serving as a competing endogenous RNA. However, as a mitochondrial localized E3 ubiquitin ligase, the function of MARCH5 in mitochondrial-associated metabolism reprogramming in human cancers remains largely unexplored, including OC. We first assessed the glycolysis effect of MARCH5 in OC both in vitro and in vivo. Then we analyzed the effect of MARCH5 knockdown or overexpression on respiratory activity by evaluating oxygen consumption rate, activities of OXPHOS complexes and production of ATP in OC cells with MARCH5. Co-immunoprecipitation, western-blot, and in vitro and vivo experiments were performed to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying MARCH5-enhanced aerobic glycolysis s in OC. In this study, we demonstrate that the abnormal upregulation of MARCH5 is accompanied by significantly increased aerobic glycolysis in OC. Mechanistically, MARCH5 promotes aerobic glycolysis via ubiquitinating and degrading mitochondrial pyruvate carrier 1 (MPC1), which mediates the transport of cytosolic pyruvate into mitochondria by localizing on mitochondria outer membrane. In line with this, MPC1 expression is significantly decreased and its downregulation is closely correlated with unfavorable survival. Furthermore, in vitro and in vivo assays revealed that MARCH5 upregulation-enhanced aerobic glycolysis played a critical role in the proliferation and metastasis of OC cells. Taken together, we identify a MARCH5-regulated aerobic glycolysis mechanism by degradation of MPC1, and provide a rationale for therapeutic targeting of aerobic glycolysis via MARCH5-MPC1 axis inhibition.
Data breaches in healthcare: security mechanisms for attack mitigation
Authors: Nemec Zlatolas Lili , Welzer Tatjana , Lhotska Lenka
Published: April 2024

The digitalisation of healthcare has increased the risk of cyberattacks in this sector, targeting sensitive personal information. In this paper, we conduct a systematic review of existing solutions for data breach mitigation in healthcare, analysing 99 research papers. There is a growing trend in research emphasising the security of electronic health records, data storage, access control, and personal health records. The analysis identified the adoption of advanced technologies, including Blockchain and Artificial Intelligence, alongside encryption in developing resilient solutions. These technologies lay the foundations for addressing the prevailing cybersecurity threats, with a particular focus on hacking or malicious attacks, followed by unauthorised access. The research highlights the development of strategies to mitigate data breaches and stresses the importance of technological progress in strengthening data security. The paper outlines future directions, highlighting the need for continuous technological progress and identifying the gaps in the attack mitigations.