bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lichtwelten in der diagnostischen Medizin
Authors: Hilger Ingrid
Published: May 2022

Die optische Bildgebung spielte immer schon eine zentrale Rolle bei der Aufklärung von biologischen und physiologischen Mechanismen in der modernen Biologie und Medizin. Ausgehend von den guten Erfahrungen in der Lichtmikroskopie, hat man in jüngster Zeit anspruchsvolle meso- und makroskopische optische Bildgebungssysteme geschaffen. Alle optischen Bildgebungsverfahren zeichnen sich durch hohe Benutzerfreundlichkeit und Empfindlichkeit aus, sie sind mit verhältnismäßig geringen Kosten verbunden und kommen ohne Radioaktivität aus. Ihre klinische Leistungsfähigkeit wird in der intraoperativen bildgebenden Darstellung des zu entfernenden Gewebeareals und in der Radiotracer-freien Diagnostik von Erkrankungen in Körperarealen mit guter Zugänglichkeit für Licht gesehen. Aus pathomorphologischer Sicht hat man sich dabei insbesondere auf die Darstellung von Tumoren und Entzündungen fokussiert. Im Sinne eines guten Signal-Hintergrund-Verhältnisses und eines verbesserten Informationsgewinns aus größeren Gewebetiefen ist die bildgebende Detektion von Fluoreszenzfarbstoffen mit Emissionsmerkmalen im nahen Infrarotbereich des Spektrums günstig. Eine große Herausforderung sind allerdings die vielseitigen Photoneninteraktionen mit dem Gewebe. Die bisherigen Forschungs- und Entwicklungsarbeiten haben verschiedene optische In-vivo-Bildgebungsverfahren hervorgebracht, die teilweise noch im experimentellen Stadium sind (z. B. fluoreszenzvermittelte Tomographie, multispektrale In-vivo-Bildgebung, Biolumineszenz, Raman-Spektroskopie etc.), während andere schon den Einzug in die klinische Situation vollzogen haben (z. B. Fluoreszenz-Reflexionsbildgebung, optoakustische Bildgebung). Die wichtigsten optischen Verfahren werden in diesem Übersichtsartikel vorgestellt.
Greater heel-rise endurance is related to better gait biomechanics in patients surgically treated for chronic Achilles tendon rupture
Authors: Nordenholm Anna , Hamrin Senorski Eric , Nilsson Helander Katarina , Möller Michael , Zügner Roland
Published: May 2022

Purpose

To determine the relationships among calf muscle function, tendon length and gait biomechanics in patients surgically treated for chronic Achilles tendon rupture.

Methods

Twenty-one patients with chronic Achilles tendon rupture (mean age 62 ± 13 years) were evaluated by heel-rise endurance test, Achilles Tendon Resting Angle (ATRA), ultrasound measurement of tendon length and three-dimensional gait analysis. A bivariate two-sided correlation test was performed on all variables in all patients.

Results

Better performance across all parameters of the heel-rise endurance test correlated with faster walking speed (r = 0.52–0.55), greater peak ankle power (r = 0.56–0.64), shorter stance phase (r = −0.52 to −0.76) and less peak ankle dorsiflexion angle (r = −0.49 to −0.64) during gait. Greater ATRA correlated with longer stance time (r = 0.47), greater peak ankle dorsiflexion angle (r = 0.48), less heel-rise repetitions (r = −0.52) and less heel-rise total work LSI (r = −0.44 to −0.59).

Conclusion

Greater calf muscle endurance, especially heel-rise total work, is moderately correlated (r = 0.49–0.76) to better ankle biomechanics during gait in patients surgically treated for CATR. The heel-rise endurance test may be a clinical proxy for power development in the ankle joint during gait.

Level of evidence

IV.
Recombinant expression a novel fibronectin—collage fusion peptide modulating stem cell stemness via integrin β3
Authors: Luo Xin , Geng Dezhi , Zhang Qirong , Ye Tao , Zhang Yifan , Li Ziyi , Huang Yadong , Xiang Qi
Published: May 2022

Constructing bionic extracellular matrix (ECM) is an attractive proposition for tissue engineering and clinical regeneration therapy involving the stemness of stem cells. Here, a novel recombinant protein fibronectin-collagen peptide (FCP) was designed to modulate the function of ECM expressed by Picha. pastoris strain X33. This FCP promotes cell migration and adhesion and maintains rBMSC stemness by binding integrin β3. Its effects were blocked by both integrin β3 siRNA and the integrin β3 inhibitor Cilengitide. A template-independent ab initio prediction modeling approach is the best approach to construct a stable FCP protein model, which predicts the binding sites between FCP and integrin β3. FCP may be used in the in vitro culture and clinical regeneration of stem cells that highly express integrin β3, such as hematopoietic stem cells. The study provides information on the molecular structure of FCP and its bioactivity, which can be used to design new compounds.

Key points

• Design a novel recombinant fibronectin-collagen peptide biomimetic ECM.

• FCP promotes cell adhesion, migration, and proliferation.

• Predicted and verified FCP structure and affinity with integrin β3.

• FCP binds integrin β3 to maintain rBMSC stemness.
Chemical analysis of trace elements at the nanoscale in samples recovered from laser-heated diamond anvil cell experiments
Authors: Blanchard Ingrid , Petitgirard Sylvain , Laurenz Vera , Miyajima Nobuyoshi , Wilke Max , Rubie David C. , Lobanov Sergey S. , Hennet Louis , Morgenroth Wolfgang , Tucoulou Rémi , Bonino Valentina , Zhao Xuchao , Franchi Ian
Published: May 2022

High pressure and high temperature experiments performed with laser-heated diamond anvil cells (LH-DAC) are being extensively used in geosciences to study matter at conditions prevailing in planetary interiors. Due to the size of the apparatus itself, the samples that are produced are extremely small, on the order of few tens of micrometers. There are several ways to analyze the samples and extract physical, chemical or structural information, using either in situ or ex situ methods. In this paper, we compare two nanoprobe techniques, namely nano-XRF and NanoSIMS, that can be used to analyze recovered samples synthetized in a LH-DAC. With these techniques, it is possible to extract the spatial distribution of chemical elements in the samples. We show the results for several standards and discuss the importance of proper calibration for the acquisition of quantifiable results. We used these two nanoprobe techniques to retrieve elemental ratios of dilute species (few tens of ppm) in quenched experimental molten samples relevant for the formation of the iron-rich core of the Earth. We finally discuss the applications of such probes to constrain the partitioning of trace elements between metal and silicate phases, with a focus on moderately siderophile elements, tungsten and molybdenum.
Relapse surveillance of acute myeloid leukemia patients in first remission after consolidation chemotherapy: diagnostic value of regular bone marrow aspirations
Authors: Koschade Sebastian E. , Stratmann Jan A. , Finkelmeier Fabian , Wagner Sebastian , Chromik Jörg , Steffen Björn , Serve Hubert , Brandts Christian H. , Ballo Olivier
Published: May 2022

‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬Abstract

The optimal follow-up care for relapse detection in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients in first remission after consolidation therapy with intensive chemotherapy is not established. In this retrospective study, we evaluate the diagnostic value of an intensive relapse surveillance strategy by regular bone marrow aspirations (BMA) in these patients. We identified 86 patients with newly diagnosed non-promyelocytic AML who had reached complete remission (CR) after intensive induction and consolidation chemotherapy between 2007 and 2019. Annual relapse rates were 40%, 17%, and 2% in years 1–3, respectively. Patients in CR were surveilled by BMA scheduled every 3 months for 2 years, followed by BMA every 6 months. This surveillance regimen detected 29 of 55 relapses (53%), 11 of which were molecular relapses (20%). The remaining 26 of 55 relapses (47%) were diagnosed by non-surveillance BMA prompted by specific suspicion of relapse. Most patients showed concurrent morphological abnormalities in peripheral blood (PB) at time of relapse. Seven percent of all morphological relapses occurred without simultaneous PB abnormalities and would have been delayed without surveillance BMA. Intensified monthly PB assessment paired with BMA every 3 months during the first 2 years may be a highly sensitive relapse surveillance strategy.
Engineered CRISPR/Cas9 System for Transcriptional Gene Silencing in Arthrobacter Species Indicates Bacterioruberin is Indispensable for Growth at Low Temperatures
Authors: Flegler Alexander , Lipski André
Published: May 2022

Pink-pigmented Arthrobacter species produce the rare C50 carotenoid bacterioruberin, which is suspected to be part of the cold adaptation mechanism. In silico analysis of the repertoire of genes encoded by the Arthrobacter agilis and Arthrobacter bussei genome revealed the biosynthetic pathway of bacterioruberin. Although genetic analysis is an essential tool for studying the physiology of Arthrobacter species, genetic manipulation of Arthrobacter is always time and labor intensive due to the lack of genetic engineering tools. Here we report the construction and application of a CRISPR/deadCas9 system (pCasiART) for gene silencing in Arthrobacter species. The engineered system pCasiART is suitable for the Golden Gate assembly of spacers, enabling rapid and accurate construction of adapted systems. In addition, pCasiART has been developed to provide an efficient transcription inhibition system for genome-wide gene silencing. The gene silencing of the phytoene synthase (CrtB), the first enzyme in bacterioruberin biosynthesis, suppressed bacterioruberin biosynthesis in Arthrobacter agilis and Arthrobacter bussei, resulting in a lack of pink pigmentation, reduction of biomass production, and growth rates at low temperatures.
Urethrectomy at the time of radical cystectomy for non-metastatic urothelial carcinoma of the bladder: a collaborative multicenter study
Authors: Laukhtina Ekaterina , Boehm Axelle , Peyronnet Benoit , Bravi Carlo Andrea , Batista Da Costa Jose , Soria Francesco , D’Andrea David , Rajwa Pawel , Quhal Fahad , Yanagisawa Takafumi , König Frederik , Mostafaei Hadi , Enikeev Dmitry , Ingels Alexandre , Verhoest Gregory , D’Hondt Frederiek , Mottrie Alexandre , Joniau Steven , Van Poppel Hendrik , de la Taille Alexandre , Bensalah Karim , Bruyère Franck , Shariat Shahrokh F. , Pradere Benjamin
Published: May 2022

Introduction

The optimal management of the urethra in patients planned for radical cystectomy (RC) remains unclear. We sought to evaluate the impact of urethrectomy on perioperative and oncological outcomes in patients treated with RC for non-metastatic urothelial carcinoma of the bladder (UCB).

Materials and methods

We assessed the retrospective data from patients treated with RC for UCB of five European University Hospitals. Associations of urethrectomy with progression-free (PFS), cancer-free (CSS), and overall (OS) survivals were assessed in univariable and multivariable Cox regression models. We performed a subgroup analysis in patients at high risk for urethral recurrence (UR) (urethral invasion and/or bladder neck invasion and/or multifocality and/or prostatic urethra involvement).

Results

A total of 887 non-metastatic UCB patients were included. Among them, 146 patients underwent urethrectomy at the time of RC. Urethrectomy was performed more often in patients with urethral invasion, T3/4 tumor stage, CIS, positive frozen section analysis of the urethra, and those who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy, underwent robotic RC, and/or received an ileal conduit urinary diversion (all p < 0.001). Estimated blood loss and the postoperative complication rate were comparable between patients who received an urethrectomy and those who did not. Urethrectomy during RC was not associated with PFS (HR 0.83, p = 0.17), CSS (HR 0.93, p = 0.67), or OS (HR 1.08, p = 0.58). In the subgroup of 276 patients at high risk for UR, urethrectomy at the time of RC decreased the risk of progression (HR 0.58, p = 0.04).

Conclusion

In our study, urethrectomy at the time of RC seems to benefit only patients at high risk for UR. Adequate risk assessment of UCB patients’ history may allow for better clinical decision-making and patient counseling.
Significance of tumor deposits combined with lymph node metastasis in stage III colorectal cancer patients: a retrospective multi-center cohort study from China
Authors: Pu Hongjiang , Pang Xiaolin , Fu Jiangping , Zheng Rui , Chen Yaxue , Zhang Dafu , Fang Xiangdong
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The study aimed to explore the value of tumor deposits in stage III colorectal cancer (CRC) and verify whether patients with more tumor deposit numbers have higher risk of recurrence.

Methods

The retrospective cohort analysis was performed at two cancer centers of China. Stage III CRC patients who underwent radical resection at the center between April 2008 and February 2019 were identified. The Univariate/Multivariate Cox regression, Kaplan–Meier analysis, and PSM were recurrence-free survival (RFS) used.

Results

Total 1080 stage III CRC patients (634 [58.7%] men; median [IQR] age, 60 [50–68] years) who underwent radical surgical resection were identified for inclusion in this study. Patients with tumor deposits had a 12.8% lower 3-year RFS (n = 236 [69.9%]) than the patients without tumor deposits (n = 844 [82.7%]) (P ≤ 0.0001). The 3-year RFS of patients with stage N2 (n = 335 [61.2%]) was 18.6% lower (P ≤ 0.0001) than the original cohort of patients with stage N1 (n = 745 [79.8%]), but it was similar to the RFS of patients with 4 or more tumor deposits plus lymph node metastases (n = 58 [61.4%]) (P = 0.91). The RFS for patients with 4 or more tumor deposits plus number of lymph node metastases (n = 58 [61.4%]) was 15.8% lower than the cohort of patients with 1–3 tumor deposits + number of lymph node metastases (n = 687 [77.2%]) (P = 0.001). Multivariate analysis confirmed that patients with 4 or more tumor deposits + the number of lymph node metastases (hazard ratio [HR], 1.88; 95% CI, 1.24–2.87) were independently associated with a shorter RFS.

Conclusion

The number of tumor deposits is an indicator of poor postoperative prognosis. It is necessary to incorporate the number of tumor deposits combined with the number of lymph node metastases to stratify postoperative stratification of stage III CRC, which may provide a new theoretical basis for adjuvant therapy for patients with N1 stage CRC after surgery.
The inflammatory potential of the diet in childhood is associated with cardiometabolic risk in adolescence/young adulthood in the ALSPAC birth cohort
Authors: Buckland Genevieve , Northstone Kate , Emmett Pauline M. , Taylor Caroline M.
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This study examined the association between a Dietary Inflammatory Score adapted for children (cDIS) and Cardiometabolic Risk (CMR) score in adolescence/early adulthood in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC).

Methods

The cDIS was calculated at 7, 10 and 13 years using diet diary data. Anthropometric and biochemical data at 17 (N = 1937) and 24 (N = 1957) years were used to calculate CMR scores at each age [mean sex-specific z-scores from triacylglycerol, HDL-cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and fat-mass index (FMI)]. Multivariable linear regression models examined associations between cDIS at 7, 10 and 13 years and a continuous CMR z-score and individual CMR markers at 17 and 24 years.

Results

In fully adjusted models, a higher cDIS (more pro-inflammatory diet) at 7 years was associated with an increase in CMR z-score at 17 years (β 0.19; 95% CI 0.03–0.35 for third versus first cDIS tertile) and at 24 years (β 0.28; 95% CI 0.11,0.44 for third versus first cDIS tertile). There was a weak association between a higher cDIS at 10 years and an increase in CMR z-score at 17 years (β 0.16; 95% CI − 0.003, 0.32 for third versus first cDIS tertile). No other clear associations were evident. FMI, MAP and HOMA-IR were the main CMR factors contributing to these associations.

Conclusion

A more pro-inflammatory diet during childhood was associated with a worse cardiometabolic profile in late adolescence/early adulthood. A childhood diet abundant in nutrients with anti-inflammatory properties could help reduce development of CMR factors.
Does cavity margin shaving reduce residual tumor and re‐excision rates? A systematic review
Authors: Fernandez‐Pacheco M. , Ortmann O. , Ignatov A. , Inwald E. C.
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Cavity shaving (CS) is a surgical technique used in the treatment of breast cancer (BC). It may reduce margin positivity in histologic assessment and consequently reduces re‐ excision rates in breast conserving surgery (BCS). The evidence for this assumption is described in the present review.

Methods

A systematic review of relevant literature in English from January 1999 to April 2019 was conducted. The analysis included studies on CS and its effects on re‐excision rates and margin positivity. We searched PubMed databases for relevant publications. In total, 22 studies were included in the present review.

Results

The benefit from CS on re‐excision rates and histologic margin positivity was variable. Out of 22 studies, 17 reported a reduction in both re‐excision rates and histologic margin positivity in margin shaved patients. Four studies could not find a significant reduction of second surgeries and residual tumor rates. One study suggested that CS after BCS was superior to single BCS only in subgroup analysis in IDC tumors.

Conclusion

CS is a surgical technique that was shown to reduce re‐excision and margin positivity rates in most of the studies. Furthermore, it can be a useful tool to assess specimen margins and detect multifocality.
Vestibular paroxysmia: clinical characteristics and long-term course
Authors: Steinmetz Karoline , Becker-Bense Sandra , Strobl Ralf , Grill Eva , Seelos Klaus , Huppert Doreen
Published: May 2022

In 2016, the Bárány Society defined new diagnostic criteria for the neurovascular compression syndrome of the eighth nerve, called “vestibular paroxysmia” (VP), differentiating between definite (dVP) and probable (pVP) forms. The aim of this study was (1) to describe clinical symptoms and laboratory findings in a well-diagnosed large patient cohort according to those criteria, and (2) to evaluate the long-term course over years in dVP. We identified 146 patients (73 dVP, 73 pVP) from our tertiary dizziness center registry. Data of structured history-taking, clinical neurological, neuro-ophthalmological/-otological examinations as well as MRI imaging were extracted for analyses. Overall, attack frequency ranged between 5 and 30 attacks per day; spinning vertigo was the most frequent type. In two-thirds of patients, attacks occurred spontaneously; in one-quarter, they were triggered by head movements. The majority (approximately 70%) reported no accompanying symptoms; in those with symptoms, mild unilateral cochlear symptoms prevailed. One-third of patients initially showed hyperventilation-induced nystagmus without specific direction, and a deviation of the subjective visual vertical between 3° and 6°. Complete loss of peripheral vestibular function was never evident. dVP and pVP significantly differed concerning the vertigo type, e.g., spinning vertigo was more frequent in dVP. Fortunately, three-quarters of dVP patients remained attack-free during follow-up (mean 4.8 years, standardized questionnaire), more than half of them even without any medication. Patients with ongoing attacks showed significantly higher attack frequency at baseline, but reported persistent frequency reduction. Overall, the long-term prognosis of VP appears favorable, not necessarily requiring ongoing treatment.
Associations of self-reported occupational exposures and settings to ALS: a case–control study
Authors: Goutman Stephen A. , Boss Jonathan , Godwin Christopher , Mukherjee Bhramar , Feldman Eva L. , Batterman Stuart A.
Published: May 2022

Background

Environmental exposures contribute to the pathogenesis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a fatal and progressive neurological disease. Identification of these exposures is important for targeted screening and risk factor modification.

Objective

To identify occupational exposures that are associated with a higher risk of ALS using both survey and standard occupational classification (SOC) coding procedures, and to highlight how exposure surveys can complement SOC coding.

Methods

ALS participants and neurologically healthy controls recruited in Michigan completed a detailed exposure assessment on their four most recent and longest held occupations. Exposure scores were generated from the exposure survey, and occupations were assigned to SOC codes by experienced exposure scientists.

Results

This study included 381 ALS and 272 control participants. ALS participants reported higher duration-adjusted occupational exposure to particulate matter (OR = 1.45, 95% CI 1.19–1.78, p < 0.001), volatile organic compounds (OR = 1.22, 95% CI 1.02–1.45, p = 0.029), metals (OR = 1.48, 95% CI 1.21–1.82, p < 0.001), and combustion and diesel exhaust pollutants (OR = 1.20, 95% CI 1.01–1.43, p = 0.041) prior to ALS diagnosis, when adjusted for sex, age, and military service compared to controls. In multivariable models, only occupational exposure to metals remained significant risk (OR = 1.56, 95% CI 1.11–2.20, p = 0.011), although in an adaptive elastic net model, particulate matter (OR = 1.203), pesticides (OR = 1.015), and metals (1.334) were all selected as risk factors. Work in SOC code “Production Occupations” was associated with a higher ALS risk. SOC codes “Building and Grounds Cleaning and Maintenance Occupations”, “Construction and Extraction Occupations”, “Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Occupations”, and “Production Occupations” were all associated with a higher exposure to metals as determined using survey data.

Discussion

Occupational exposure to particulate matter, volatile organic compounds, metals, pesticides, and combustion and diesel exhaust and employment in “Production Occupations” was associated with an increased ALS risk in this cohort.
A supervised discriminant data representation: application to pattern classification
Authors: Dornaika F. , Khoder A. , Moujahid A. , Khoder W.
Published: May 2022

The performance of machine learning and pattern recognition algorithms generally depends on data representation. That is why, much of the current effort in performing machine learning algorithms goes into the design of preprocessing frameworks and data transformations able to support effective machine learning. The method proposed in this work consists of a hybrid linear feature extraction scheme to be used in supervised multi-class classification problems. Inspired by two recent linear discriminant methods: robust sparse linear discriminant analysis (RSLDA) and inter-class sparsity-based discriminative least square regression (ICS_DLSR), we propose a unifying criterion that is able to retain the advantages of these two powerful methods. The resulting transformation relies on sparsity-promoting techniques both to select the features that most accurately represent the data and to preserve the row-sparsity consistency property of samples from the same class. The linear transformation and the orthogonal matrix are estimated using an iterative alternating minimization scheme based on steepest descent gradient method and different initialization schemes. The proposed framework is generic in the sense that it allows the combination and tuning of other linear discriminant embedding methods. According to the experiments conducted on several datasets including faces, objects, and digits, the proposed method was able to outperform competing methods in most cases.
Design and modeling of a multiband electrically coupled loop antenna for biomedical applications
Authors: Mahfouz Abdullah Muhammad , Ibraheem Ali Ahmed Younis , Haraz Osama M.
Published: May 2022

A triple-band Electrically Coupled Loop Antenna (ECLA) is designed to operate in the three standard bands for biomedical implantation purposes: Medical Implant Communications Services (MICS) (402–405 MHz), Wireless Medical Telecommunication Services (WMTS) (1395–1405 MHz) and Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) (2400–2480 MHz). An equivalent circuit is derived for the multiband ECLA based on simple equations relate the dimensions with the circuit parameters to get a good understanding of antenna operation as well as saving time in simulations. The proposed antenna size is 15 × 13.8 × 13 mm3 and simulated in a muscle phantom with size 100 × 100 × 100 mm3. The calculated peak realized gain values are − 18, − 30 and − 33.3 dBi and the peak 10 g averaged Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) values are 11.59, 43.07 and 49.75 W/Kg for the three bands, respectively. A detuning study is carried out to ensure that the proposed antenna is robust against electrical properties variation thus it can be implanted in different tissues of different people in various health circumstances. Two antenna prototypes have been fabricated and tested in a solution that mimics human tissue.
Orbital reconstruction: a systematic review and meta-analysis evaluating the role of patient-specific implants
Authors: Kotecha Sanjeev , Ferro Ashley , Harrison Patrick , Fan Kathleen
Published: May 2022

The purpose of this study is to execute an evidence-based review answering the following question (PICO): “Do patient-specific implants (PSI), manufactured or designed using computer-assisted technology, improve outcomes (orbital volume change, enophthalmos, diplopia, and operative duration) compared to conventional methods in orbital reconstruction following traumatic orbital injury in the adult patient population?” We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Inclusion criteria included any comparative paper whereby computer-assisted technology was used in the prefabrication or design process of implants for use in post-traumatic orbital reconstruction. Paediatric patient populations were excluded. Eight databases were systematically searched for relevant studies. Risk of bias was assessed through the NOS and RoB2 tools. Random-effects models were used to identify differences in outcomes between groups where possible. Analysis was performed using R 4.0.0. Eleven of 4784 identified studies were included, comprising 628 adult patients, with 302 and 326 patients in the patient-specific and conventional groups, respectively. Weighted mean difference between unaffected and post-operative orbital volume was 0.32 ml (SD 0.75) and 0.95 ml (SD 1.03) for patient-specific and conventional groups, respectively. Significant improvement was identified in post-operative orbital volume reconstitution with the use of PSI, compared to conventional implants, in 3 of the 5 reporting studies. Equally, post-operative enophthalmos trended towards lower severity in the patient-specific group, with 11.2% of patients affected in the patient-specific group and 19.2% in the conventional group, and operative duration was significantly reduced with the use of PSI in 3 of the 6 reporting studies. Despite a tendency to favour PSI, no statistically significant differences in key outcomes were identified on meta-analysis. Although there is some encouraging data to support improved outcomes with the use of patient-specific orbital implants in post-traumatic reconstruction, there is, at present, no statistically significant evidence to objectively support their use over conventional implants based on the currently available comparative studies. Based on the results of this study, the choice of implant used should, thus, be left to the discretion of the surgeon.
Antimicrobial activity of ceftazidime-avibactam and comparators against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Enterobacterales collected in Croatia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Latvia and Lithuania: ATLAS Surveillance Program, 2019
Authors: Adámková V , Mareković I , Szabó J , Pojnar L , Billová S , Horvat Herceg S , Kuraieva A , Możejko-Pastewka B
Published: May 2022

Antimicrobial susceptibility of clinical isolates collected from sites in central Europe in 2019 was tested by CLSI broth microdilution method and EUCAST breakpoints. Most active were amikacin, ceftazidime-avibactam and colistin; respectively, susceptibility rates among P. aeruginosa (n = 701) were 89.2%, 92.2% and 99.9%; difficult-to-treat (DTR) isolates, 62.5%, 37.5% and 100%; multidrug-resistant (MDR) isolates, 68.3%, 72.9% and 99.5%; meropenem-resistant (MEM-R), metallo-β-lactamase-negative (MBL-negative) isolates, 72.8%, 78.6% and 100%. Among Enterobacterales (n = 1639), susceptibility to ceftazidime-avibactam, colistin and tigecycline was ≥ 97.9%; MDR Enterobacterales, 96.8%, 94.4% and 100%, respectively; DTR isolates, ≥ 76.2% to ceftazidime-avibactam and colistin; MEM-R, MBL-negative isolates, ≥ 90.0% to ceftazidime-avibactam and colistin.
Nachhaltigkeit in Wirtschaft und Gesellschaft
Authors: Riphahn Regina T. , Schmidt Klaus M.
Published: May 2022

The scientific advisory board of the federal ministry of economic affairs and climate protection conducted a symposium on sustainability at its 500th meeting. The UN’s sustainable development goals play an increasingly important role in economic policy and regulation. This article gives a survey of the trade-offs and implementation problems that were discussed at the symposium, in particular the operationalisation of sustainability in welfare economics, the implementation of sustainability goals in economic law, the relationship between competition policy and sustainability, the impact of sustainability concerns on monetary policy, and finally, supply chain regulation and sustainability objectives.
Nachhaltigkeitsziele und das Lieferkettengesetz
Authors: Bierbrauer Felix
Published: May 2022

This article discusses whether supply chain due diligence laws are a suitable instrument for goals of sustainability. It uses the German due diligence law as an example and makes recommendations for the design of European rules. The emerging evidence on the effect of trade policies in global value chains suggests that, in response to such laws, firms may reorganise their supply chains away from countries that commit human rights violations. The German law, by contrast, wants firms to “Stay and Behave”, i. e. to work to improve human rights. The article discusses measures that give a “Stay and Behave” outcome its best chance.
Äußere Sicherheit und Flüchtlingsschutz als gesamteuropäische öffentliche Güter
Authors: Hausner Karl Heinz , Schehl Johanna
Published: May 2022

Der Ukrainekrieg verändert die Lage in Europa grundlegend. Die Militärausgaben steigen nun seit langem wieder an und die Abhängigkeit von fossilen Energieträgern wird offensichtlich. Die erwartete Zahl der Geflüchteten wird die der Jugoslawien- und Syrienkriege vermutlich bei weitem übersteigen. Damit steht die EU vor großen Herausforderungen. Sie muss gleichzeitig die geopolitische Bedrohung durch Russland, die daraus folgende Migrationswelle sowie den Umbau hin zu einer klimaneutralen Industrie bewältigen.
Glasfaserausbau in Deutschland: Die Ampel auf Grün stellen
Authors: Ilgmann Cordelius
Published: May 2022

Der Koalitionsvertrag beinhaltet hinsichtlich der digitalen Infrastrukturen viele Forderungen, die seit längerem von Praktiker:innen in den Ländern und Kommunen erhoben werden. So bekennen sich die Regierungsparteien erstmals zu einem Glasfaserinfrastrukturziel. Damit setzt der Bund um, was Länder wie Schleswig-Holstein und Thüringen schon länger erkannt haben: Die Grundlage einer zukunftsfähigen digitalen Infrastruktur ist ein flächendeckendes Glasfasernetz bis in die Gebäude bzw. Wohnungen (FTTB/FTTH). Bei der Breitbandförderung möchte die Regierung dabei verstärkt auf das Betreibermodell als ordnungspolitisch sinnvolle Alternative zur bisher vorherrschenden Subventionspraxis setzen. Doch Verbände und Unternehmen versuchen dies durch geschickten Lobbyismus zu verhindern.
Ehrgeizige Pläne der Ampelkoalition zur beruflichen Weiterbildung
Authors: Seifert Hartmut
Published: May 2022

Der Koalitionsvertrag der neuen Ampelregierung listet zwar Vorschläge zur Neuausrichtung der beruflichen Weiterbildung auf, bleibt aber mit seinen Vorschlägen unkonkret. Der vorliegende Beitrag erläutert die im Koalitionsvertrag genannten Weiterbildungskonzepte und zeigt auf, wie sie sinnvoll miteinander verknüpft werden könnten, um die berufliche Weiterbildung zu fördern und Engpässen auf dem Arbeitsmarkt in Zukunft entgegenzuwirken.
CO2-Bepreisung beeinflusst den Wettbewerb — und profitiert von ihm
Authors: Paha Johannes
Published: May 2022

Maßnahmen zur Begrenzung des Klimawandels haben Auswirkungen auf den Wettbewerb. Am Beispiel des Brennstoffemissionshandelsgesetzes lässt sich zeigen, warum die umweltpolitisch intendierte Lenkungswirkung der CO2-Bepreisung in von Marktmacht betroffenen Märkten reduziert ist und wie eine konsequente Umsetzung des Kartellrechts diese Situation verbessert. Da der Emissionshandel zudem die internationale Wettbewerbsfähigkeit deutscher und europäischer Unternehmen gefährden kann, gab es bereits Forderungen nach dessen Modifikation. Es drohen Subventionswettläufe und Steuerwettbewerb, denen die Kontrolle staatlicher Beihilfen als Element der europäischen Wettbewerbspolitik, das Welthandelsrecht und Maßnahmen der Klimadiplomatie entgegenwirken.
Megatrends und Strukturwandel — welche Regionen werden profitieren?
Authors: Kruse Mirko , Nitt-Drießelmann Dörte , Wedemeier Jan
Published: May 2022

Gesellschaftliche und wirtschaftliche Dynamiken führen zu einem stetigen Wandel von Wirtschaftsstrukturen. Abhängig von der regionalen Wirtschaftsstruktur verlaufen Anpassungsprozesse einfacher oder schwerer. Die transformatorischen Veränderungen wirken sich dabei positiv oder negativ auf die wirtschaftliche Stärke einer Region aus. Der Beitrag zeichnet auf, wie sich regionale Disparitäten aktuell darstellen und welche Regionen von sich abzeichnenden Megatrends profitieren können bzw. in welchen der Anpassungsdruck zunehmen wird. Damit der Wandel gelingt, sind unterstützende politische Rahmenbedingungen und Vorleistungen der öffentlichen Hand unabdingbar.
Präsidentschaftswahl zeigt Frankreichs Spaltung
Authors: Reisen Helmut
Published: May 2022

French presidential elections 2022 have significantly strengthened anti-EU populists. Traditional mainstream centrists are not among the big three election winners, while far-right Marine Le Pen deftly addressed the plight of the disengaged. The country’s rural-urban divide masks significant differences in voting motives; Paris is a stark outlier. Unemployment rates, low skills, and car dependency fuel Le Pen’s support, as well as xenophobia. The province has fought back against neglect by electing populists. It is doubtful whether place-based policies will solve the structural cause of the populist tendency by the next presidential election in five years.
Truncating TINF2 p.Tyr312Ter variant and inherited breast cancer susceptibility
Authors: Koivuluoma Susanna , Vorimo Sandra , Mattila Tiina M. , Tervasmäki Anna , Kumpula Timo , Kuismin Outi , Winqvist Robert , Moilanen Jukka , Mantere Tuomo , Pylkäs Katri
Published: May 2022

TINF2 is a critical subunit of the shelterin complex, which protects and maintains the length of telomeres. Pathogenic missense and truncating TINF2 mutations are causative for dyskeratosis congenita (DC), a rare, dominantly inherited bone marrow failure syndrome characterized by mucocutaneous abnormalities and cancer predisposition. Recent reports indicate that specific TINF2 truncating mutations act as high penetrance cancer predisposition alleles outside DC context, including breast cancer in their tumor spectrum. Here, we have evaluated the role of germline mutations in TINF2 and other shelterin genes in inherited breast cancer susceptibility using exome sequencing data from 98 Northern Finnish breast cancer cases with indication of inherited disease predisposition as a discovery cohort. A single protein truncating variant, TINF2 p.Tyr312Ter, was identified in one of the cases (1/98), and four more carriers were observed in the subsequently genotyped unselected breast cancer cohort (4/1904). None of the carriers were reported to have DC. TINF2 p.Tyr312Ter resulted in stable short form of mRNA transcript, and normal telomere length has been indicated by a recent report. Although recurrent in cases (total of 5/2095), TINF2 p.Tyr312Ter is also present in Finnish population controls (8/12,517), and the observed 4-fold higher frequency in cases falls at most into the range of moderate breast cancer risk alleles (OR 3.74, 95% CI 1.22–11.45, p = 0.029). Current results indicate that not all TINF2 truncating variants are high cancer risk alleles and add further evidence that different TINF2 mutations can have very diverse effects on the disease phenotype.
Interactive effects of drought and edge exposure on old-growth forest understory species
Authors: Koelemeijer Irena A. , Ehrlén Johan , Jönsson Mari , De Frenne Pieter , Berg Peter , Andersson Jenny , Weibull Henrik , Hylander Kristoffer
Published: May 2022

Context

Both climatic extremes and land-use change constitute severe threats to biodiversity, but their interactive effects remain poorly understood. In forest ecosystems, the effects of climatic extremes can be exacerbated at forest edges.

Objectives

We explored the hypothesis that an extreme summer drought reduced the richness and coverage of old-growth forest species, particularly in forest patches with high edge exposure.

Methods

Using a high-resolution spatially explicit precipitation dataset, we could detect variability in drought intensity during the summer drought of 2018. We selected 60 old-growth boreal forest patches in central Sweden that differed in their level of drought intensity and amount of edge exposure. The year after the drought, we surveyed red-listed and old-growth forest indicator species of vascular plants, lichens and bryophytes. We assessed if species richness, composition, and coverage were related to drought intensity, edge exposure, and their interaction.

Results

Species richness was negatively related to drought intensity in forest patches with a high edge exposure, but not in patches with less edge exposure. Patterns differed among organism groups and were strongest for cyanolichens, epiphytes associated with high-pH bark, and species occurring on convex substrates such as trees and logs.

Conclusions

Our results show that the effects of an extreme climatic event on forest species can vary strongly across a landscape. Edge exposed old-growth forest patches are more at risk under extreme climatic events than those in continuous forests. This suggest that maintaining buffer zones around forest patches with high conservation values should be an important conservation measure.
Empathy as a selection criterion for medical students: is a valid assessment possible during personal interviews? A mixed-methods study
Authors: Kötter Thomas , Schulz Johanna Christine , Pohontsch Nadine Janis
Published: May 2022

Places to study at medical schools are scarce, which makes well-designed selection procedures employing criteria with predictive validity for good students and doctors necessary. In Germany, the pre-university grade point average (pu-GPA) is the main selection criterion for medical school application. However, this is criticised. According to a decision by the Federal Constitutional Court, selection must be supplemented with a criterion other than the pu-GPA. Empathy is a core competency in medical care. Therefore, it seems to be an appropriate criterion. This study evaluates the feasibility of an empathy questionnaire and empathy appraisal by a panel for applicant selection. We employed a sequential explanatory mixed-methods design. Results of self- and external assessments of empathy were compared in a quantitative analysis. Thereafter, the concept of empathy and the approach to empathy appraisal by the selection panel members were explored qualitatively in six focus groups with 19 selection panel members using a semi-structured guideline. Transcripts were content analysed using both deductive and inductive coding. We found no significant correlation of self- and external empathy assessment (ρ(212) =  − .031, p > .05). The results of the focus groups showed that, while panel members judged the external empathy assessment to be useful, they had neither a homogenous concept of empathy nor an implicit basis for this assessment. This diversity in panel members’ concepts of empathy and differences in the concepts underlying the Davis Interpersonal Reactivity Index seem to be the main reasons for the lack of correlation between self- and external empathy assessments. While empathy is a possible amendment to established selection criteria for medical education in Germany, its external assessment should not be employed without training panel members based on an established theoretical concept of empathy and an objective self-assessment measure.
High performing platinum—copper catalyst for self—breathing polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell
Authors: Sapkota Prabal , Boyer Cyrille , Lim Sean , Aguey-Zinsou Kondo-Francois
Published: May 2022

Platinum (Pt) is the most common catalyst in Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells due to its ability to effectively promote the oxidation of hydrogen and reduction of oxygen. However, as a noble metal, the use of Pt should be minimized. Alloying Pt with low-cost transition metals is an effective strategy to improve catalytic activity and reduce Pt use. In this context, we report on a one-step synthesis of a Platinum/Copper (PtCu) catalyst, which can be used at both the anode and the cathode of a fuel cell. Catalysts with various Cu to Pt ratios were synthesised and in particular the PtCu catalyst at a Cu to Pt ratio of 0.5 demonstrated a high activity for hydrogen oxidation and oxygen reduction, i.e. 2.4 times superior to Pt alone. This enhanced catalytic activity was confirmed in a self-breathing PEMFC with a power output of 45.16 mW cm−2, which corresponds to a 1.4-fold increase compared to Pt alone. This is a significant improvement because 40% more power was obtained with 22% less Pt.

Graphical Abstract
Ertugliflozin and incident obstructive sleep apnea: an analysis from the VERTIS CV trial
Authors: Wojeck Brian S. , Inzucchi Silvio E. , Neeland Ian J. , Mancuso James P. , Frederich Robert , Masiukiewicz Urszula , Cater Nilo B. , McGuire Darren K. , Cannon Christopher P. , Yaggi Henry Klar
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The sodium-glucose transporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) empagliflozin may reduce the incidence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and cardiovascular (CV) disease. This analysis of VERTIS CV, the CV outcome trial for the SGLT2i ertugliflozin conducted in a similar group of patients, explored the effects of ertugliflozin on reported incident OSA.

Methods

In VERTIS CV, patients ≥ 40 years with T2D and atherosclerotic CV disease (ASCVD) were randomized to ertugliflozin 5 or 15 mg or placebo. The primary endpoint was the composite of major adverse CV events. This exploratory analysis evaluated the impact of ertugliflozin (5 and 15 mg pooled) on incident OSA. Patients with prevalent OSA were excluded. Incident OSA events were based on investigator-reported events using the MedDRA SMQ term “sleep apnea syndrome.” A multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression model was constructed to assess the association between ertugliflozin and incident OSA.

Results

Of 8246 patients enrolled, 7697 (93.3%) were without baseline OSA (placebo, n = 2561; ertugliflozin, n = 5136; mean age 64.4 years; BMI 31.7 kg/m2; HbA1c, 8.2%; 69.2% male; 88.3% White). The OSA incidence rate was 1.44 per 1000 person-years versus 2.61 per 1000 person-years among patients treated with ertugliflozin versus placebo, respectively, corresponding to a 48% relative risk reduction (HR 0.52; 95% CI 0.28–0.96; P = 0.04).

Conclusions

In VERTIS CV, ertugliflozin reduced by nearly half the incidence of OSA in patients with T2D and ASCVD. These data contribute to the literature that SGLT2is may have a significant beneficial impact on OSA.

Trial registration.

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01986881.
Artificial Meat Industry: Production Methodology, Challenges, and Future
Authors: Mateti Tarun , Laha Anindita , Shenoy Pushpalatha
Published: May 2022

Biotechnology and food science have pioneered the notion of cultured meat. Conventional meat production face issues related to butchering, dietary inadequacy, foodborne disease, and the emanation of methane, which cultured meat evades while promising the texture and feel of real meat. Mass production techniques for plant-based meat analogs have been developed, whose products have hit the market. In vitro production on scaffolding and self-organizing techniques have manufactured small-scale meat products offering tunable nutrition, although more specialized contrivances are needed to build a cultured meat framework on a large scale. Prospective techniques like 3D/4D bio-printing, biophotonics, and cloning are current research subjects. Cultured meat needs to overcome societal and regulatory hurdles prior to commercialization, and, in any event, is a long-term necessity for humankind, although the high production cost and affirmation among people is the principal impediment.
Putting consumers first in food systems analysis: identifying interventions to improve diets in rural Ghana
Authors: Aberman Noora-Lisa , Gelli Aulo , Agandin John , Kufoalor Doreen , Donovan Jason
Published: May 2022

A critical, yet underexplored, dimension of food systems is how consumer food preferences and beliefs interact with the food environment. We present a consumer-centered approach to identifying options for improving diets. The Value Chains for Nutrition (VCN) mixed-methods multi-disciplinary analytical approach was applied in rural Ghana. Data from in-depth consumer interviews, structured vendor interviews, and (secondary) household consumption surveys were analyzed to assess consumer diet patterns, related norms and preferences, and supply and demand characteristics of a set of empirically defined high-potential nutritious foods. Mapping results onto a supply–demand typology, we identify promising interventions to support increased availability, access, and affordability of these foods. Consumption data suggested that diets among Ghanaians were deficient in key micronutrients and calories. Fresh nutritious fruits and vegetables tended to be grown for home consumption rather than sale due to transportation challenges and seasonality of demand, especially near rural markets. Seasonal availability (fruits and vegetables) and affordability (animal foods) severely limited consumption of many nutritious foods. A set of supply, demand, and value chain interventions to enhance availability and affordability of nutritious foods are presented. Critical to success is to consider the set of interventions along each value chain required for impact.