bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell-derived microvesicles on the apoptosis of the multiple myeloma cell line U266
Authors: Vafaeizadeh Mona , Abroun Saeid , Soufi Zomorrod Mina
Published: June 2024

Background

Microvesicles are membraned particles produced by different types of cells recently investigated for anticancer purposes. The current study aimed to investigate the effects of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell-derived microvesicles (BMSC-MVs) on the multiple myeloma cell line U266. BMSC-MVs were isolated from BMSCs via ultracentrifugation and characterized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS). U266 cells were treated with 15, 30, 60, and 120 µg/mL BMSC-MVs for three and seven days and the effects of treatment in terms of viability, cytotoxicity, and DNA damage were investigated via the MTT assay, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay, and 8‑hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine (8‑OHdG) measurement, respectively. Moreover, the apoptosis rate of the U266 cells treated with 60 µg/mL BMSC-MVs was also assessed seven days following treatment via flow cytometry. Ultimately, the expression level of BCL2, BAX, and CCND1 by the U266 cells was examined seven days following treatment with 60 µg/mL BMSC-MVs using qRT-PCR.

Results

BMSC-MVs had an average size of ~ 410 nm. According to the MTT and LDH assays, BMSC-MV treatment reduced the U266 cell viability and mediated cytotoxic effects against them, respectively. Moreover, elevated 8‑OHdG levels following BMSC-MV treatment demonstrated a dose-dependent increase of DNA damage in the treated cells. BMSC-MV-treated U266 cells also exhibited an increased apoptosis rate after seven days of treatment. The expression level of BCL2 and CCND1 decreased in the treated cells whereas the BAX expression demonstrated an incremental pattern.

Conclusions

Our findings accentuate the therapeutic benefit of BMSC-MVs against the multiple myeloma cell line U266 and demonstrate how microvesicles could be of therapeutic advantage. Future in vivo studies could further corroborate these findings.
Unraveling the significance of AGPAT4 for the pathogenesis of endometriosis via a multi-omics approach
Authors: Chen Jun , Shen Licong , Wu Tingting , Yang Yongwen
Published: June 2024

Endometriosis is characterized by the ectopic proliferation of endometrial cells, posing considerable diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Our study investigates AGPAT4’s involvement in endometriosis pathogenesis, aiming to unveil new therapeutic targets. Our investigation by analyzing eQTL data from GWAS for preliminary screening. Subsequently, within the GEO dataset, we utilized four machine learning algorithms to precisely identify risk-associated genes. Gene validity was confirmed through five Mendelian Randomization methods. AGPAT4 expression was measured by Single-Cell Analysis, ELISA and immunohistochemistry. We investigated AGPAT4’s effect on endometrial stromal cells using RNA interference, assessing cell proliferation, invasion, and migration with CCK8, wound-healing, and transwell assays. Protein expression was analyzed by western blot, and AGPAT4 interactions were explored using AutoDock. Our investigation identified 11 genes associated with endometriosis risk, with AGPAT4 and COMT emerging as pivotal biomarkers through machine learning analysis. AGPAT4 exhibited significant upregulation in both ectopic tissues and serum samples from patients with endometriosis. Reduced expression of AGPAT4 was observed to detrimentally impact the proliferation, invasion, and migration capabilities of endometrial stromal cells, concomitant with diminished expression of key signaling molecules such as Wnt3a, β-Catenin, MMP-9, and SNAI2. Molecular docking analyses further underscored a substantive interaction between AGPAT4 and Wnt3a.Our study highlights AGPAT4’s key role in endometriosis, influencing endometrial stromal cell behavior, and identifies AGPAT4 pathways as promising therapeutic targets for this condition.
Characterization of bacteriophages infecting multidrug-resistant uropathogenic Escherichia coli strains
Authors: Markusková Barbora , Elnwrani Sulafa , Andrezál Michal , Sedláčková Tatiana , Szemes Tomáš , Slobodníková Lívia , Kajsik Michal , Drahovská Hana
Published: June 2024

Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is the most common causative agent of urinary tract infections, and strains that are resistant to antibiotics are a major problem in treating these infections. Phage therapy is a promising alternative approach that can be used to treat infections caused by polyresistant bacterial strains. In the present study, 16 bacteriophages isolated from sewage and surface water were investigated. Phage host specificity was tested on a collection of 77 UPEC strains. The phages infected 2–44 strains, and 80% of the strains were infected by at least one phage. The susceptible E. coli strains belonged predominantly to the B2 phylogenetic group, including strains of two clones, CC131 and CC73, that have a worldwide distribution. All of the phages belonged to class Caudoviricetes and were identified as members of the families Straboviridae, Autographiviridae, and Drexlerviridae and the genera Kagunavirus, Justusliebigvirus, and Murrayvirus. A phage cocktail composed of six phages – four members of the family Straboviridae and two members of the family Autographiviridae – was prepared, and its antibacterial activity was tested in liquid medium. Complete suppression of bacterial growth was observed after 5–22 hours of cultivation, followed by partial regrowth. At 24 hours postinfection, the cocktail suppressed bacterial growth to 43–92% of control values. Similar results were obtained when testing the activity of the phage cocktail in LB and in artificial urine medium. The results indicate that our phage cocktail has potential to inhibit bacterial growth during infection, and they will therefore be preserved in the national phage bank, serving as valuable resources for therapeutic applications.
The incidence and intensity of postoperative pain and Flare-up following the use of three different intracanal medicaments in teeth with posttreatment apical periodontitis: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Angın Adile Esen , Özkan Hicran Dönmez , Saral İlkim Pınar , Aydın Berdan
Published: June 2024

Objectives

This randomized clinical trial aimed to compare the effect of intracanal medicaments on the incidence of postoperative pain and flare-up with posttreatment apical periodontitis (PTAP) of retreatment cases.

Materials and methods

One hundred twenty patients diagnosed with PTAP with single-rooted teeth with single-canal without spontaneous pain or swellings were included and randomly divided into three groups according to the intracanal medicament used. Intracanal medicaments were placed into the root canals following the removal of previous root canal fillings and re-instrumentation. Calcium hydroxide (Ca (OH)2), chlorhexidine gel (CHX), calcium hydroxide and chlorhexidine gel combinations were used as intracanal medicaments. Postoperative pain scores were recorded at 6 and 12 h and 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 days using a visual analog scale (VAS). Sensitivity on percussion, spontaneous pain, swelling, antibiotic and analgesic requirements of the patients were evaluated during clinical examinations performed postoperatively after 2 and 7 days.

Results

There were no statistically significant differences between groups in terms of VAS scores following the intracanal medicament application (p > 0.05). However, compared to the patients of 20–34 and 50–65 age groups, greater VAS scores were observed in patients of 35–49 age groups at 12 h, and 3, 4, 7 days (p < 0.05). Flare-up was observed in only one patient in the CHX gel group, and no flare-up was observed in other groups.

Conclusions

Similar postoperative pain incidence in all experimental groups indicates that all three medicaments are clinically acceptable in inter-appointment management of retreatment cases in terms of post-endodontic pain and flare-up.

Clinical relevance

In this randomized clinical trial, three different intracanal medicaments were utilized in nonsurgical endodontic retreatment and their effect on postoperative pain and flare-up incidence was examined. Thus, this study will be a significant contribution in the decision-making during clinical practice; since there are a limited number of prospective clinical trials in the literature about the severity of pain following retreatment procedures including intracanal medicament use.
The DECOVALEX international collaboration on modeling of coupled subsurface processes and its contribution to confidence building in radioactive waste disposal
Authors: Birkholzer Jens T. , Bond Alexander E. , Tsang Chin-Fu
Published: June 2024

The long-lived radiotoxicity of the high-level radioactive waste generated by nuclear power plants requires safe isolation from the biosphere for many hundreds of thousands of years. An international consensus has emerged that such isolation can best be provided by disposal in mined geologic repositories, a strategy that today is pursued by most countries dealing with radioactive waste. However, the need to predict the performance of such repositories over very long time periods generates large uncertainties that have to be accounted for in safety assessments. The findings from such safety assessments need to be conveyed to all stakeholders in a clear way, such that public confidence in geologic disposal solutions can be achieved. It is suggested here that close international collaboration on the technical aspects of geologic waste disposal has helped, and will continue to help, building trust and increasing confidence. This paper discusses a particular international collaboration initiative referred to as DECOVALEX, which brings together multiple teams and disciplines to collectively tackle complex experimental and modeling challenges related to geologic disposal. By describing how DECOVALEX works and by providing joint research examples, a case is made that such international collaboration contributes to knowledge transfer and confidence building in radioactive waste disposal science.
Recent developments and future directions of first-line systemic therapy combined with immunotherapy for advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma: a historical perspective on treatment evolution
Authors: Kawashima Atsunari , Ishizuya Yu , Yamamoto Yoshiyuki , Kato Taigo , Hatano Koji , Nonomura Norio
Published: June 2024

Urothelial carcinoma presents significant treatment challenges, especially in advanced stages. Traditionally managed with platinum-based chemotherapy, the advent of immunotherapies, particularly immune checkpoint inhibitors, has revolutionized urothelial carcinoma treatment. This review explores the evolution of urothelial carcinoma management, focusing on the transition from immune checkpoint inhibitors monotherapy to innovative combination therapies. Pembrolizumab, following the KEYNOTE-045 trial, emerged as a pivotal ICI in pretreated metastatic urothelial carcinoma, outperforming traditional chemotherapy. However, limitations surfaced in untreated metastatic urothelial carcinoma patients, particularly in those with low PD-L1 expression, as evidenced by trials like IMvigor130 and KEYNOTE-361. These challenges led to the exploration of combination therapies, including immune checkpoint inhibitors with platinum-based chemotherapy, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and antibody–drug conjugates. Notably, the CheckMate 901 trial demonstrated improved outcomes with a nivolumab–chemotherapy combination. A significant breakthrough was achieved with the combination of enfortumab vedotin, an antibody–drug conjugates, and pembrolizumab, setting a new standard in first-line treatment for locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma. Future directions involve further exploration of antibody–drug conjugates and immune checkpoint inhibitors, as seen in the TROPHY-U-01 and TROPiCS-4 trials. The review concludes that the locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma treatment landscape is rapidly evolving, with combination therapies offering promising avenues for improved patient outcomes, signaling a new era in urothelial carcinoma management.
Prognosis of microscopic polyangiitis is well predictable in the first 2 weeks of treatment
Authors: Owaki Akiko , Tanaka Akihito , Furuhashi Kazuhiro , Watanabe Yu , Koshi-Ito Eri , Imaizumi Takahiro , Maruyama Shoichi
Published: June 2024

Background

Kidney and life outcomes remain unsatisfactory in patients with microscopic polyangiitis (MPA). Appropriate treatment intensity must be provided to the appropriate patients. To identify severe cases early, we investigated the factors related to kidney and life outcomes.

Methods

We included patients diagnosed with MPA based on myeloperoxidase-antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (MPO-ANCA) positivity and kidney histopathology results after kidney biopsies between January 1, 2021, and May 11, 2023, at 10 affiliated centers, including our hospital. Death, maintenance dialysis, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 15 after 6 months of treatment were defined as poor prognosis groups, and factors associated with these conditions were investigated.

Results

We included 84 (36 men and 48 women) patients in this study. Median age was 73.8 (interquartile range: 71–81) years. After 6 months of treatment, the proportion of patients in the poor prognosis group was 16.7 %, with a mortality of 7.1 % and a poor kidney prognosis rate of 9.5 %. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve showed that eGFR at 2 weeks had a comparable prognostic performance equal as eGFR at 4 weeks (area under the curve: 0.875 and 0.896, respectively). After adjustment by various factors, eGFR at 2 weeks was related with prognosis significantly (p = 0.031).

Conclusion

Kidney function 2 weeks after the start of treatment for MPA can predict prognosis.
The embrace and resistance of Chinese battery investments in Hungary: The case of CATL
Authors: Wu Qiong Miranda
Published: June 2024

In line with the global trend toward electrification, the focus of recent Chinese investment in Europe has shifted to the field of electric vehicles. The largest and most controversial investment is Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited’s (CATL) battery factory in Hungary, following its initial success in Germany. Although the Hungarian national government and local authorities unanimously supported this mega gigafactory, it has provoked heated disputes among opposition parties, experts, and local communities. Drawing on over 900 news articles related to CATL published between April 2022 and February 2024, this study examines how CATL’s investment is portrayed in the Hungarian media. Using content analysis, I analyzed the overall sentiments of the CATL project by divergent media outlets with varied political orientations. Using narrative analysis, I further investigated how narratives in the Hungarian media consolidate the support and opposition to the CATL project. The findings shed light on the controversial debate over the case of CATL in Hungary and offer significant implications for Hungary and other integrated peripheral countries competing for foreign battery-related investments. Moreover, the findings suggest the importance of implementing locally tailored corporate social responsibility initiatives to ensure the successful and long-term development of Chinese investments in the host country.
Spatial Intracranial Pressure Fields Driven by Blast Overpressure in Rats
Authors: Norris Carly , Murphy Susan F. , Talty Caiti-Erin , VandeVord Pamela J.
Published: June 2024

Free-field blast exposure imparts a complex, dynamic response within brain tissue that can trigger a cascade of lasting neurological deficits. Full body mechanical and physiological factors are known to influence the body’s adaptation to this seemingly instantaneous insult, making it difficult to accurately pinpoint the brain injury mechanisms. This study examined the intracranial pressure (ICP) profile characteristics in a rat model as a function of blast overpressure magnitude and brain location. Metrics such as peak rate of change of pressure, peak pressure, rise time, and ICP frequency response were found to vary spatially throughout the brain, independent of blast magnitude, emphasizing unique spatial pressure fields as a primary biomechanical component to blast injury. This work discusses the ICP characteristics and considerations for finite element models, in vitro models, and translational in vivo models to improve understanding of biomechanics during primary blast exposure.
Refinability of mercerized softwood kraft pulp
Authors: Koistinen Antti , Wang Huaicheng , Hiltunen Eero , Vuorinen Tapani , Maloney Thaddeus
Published: June 2024

In this study, the impact of mercerization and PFI refining on the properties of softwood kraft pulp was investigated. Never-dried softwood kraft pulp was treated with 15 wt% NaOH to generate highly hydrated fibers, followed by PFI refining to increase pulp fibrillation and porosity. The original and modified pulp properties were assessed for morphological and chemical composition. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) tests and water retention value (WRV) measurements were conducted to evaluate pulp swelling behavior and porosity. Fiber bonding potential and strength properties were evaluated from handsheets of mercerized and unmercerized pulp. Mercerization with 15 wt% NaOH successfully converted cellulose I to cellulose II, leading to slightly increased pulp swelling and micropore volume. However, the mercerization reduced handsheet strength properties. Furthermore, PFI refining resulted in a negligible enhancement of bonding in mercerized pulp, in stark contrast to its significant effect on unmercerized kraft pulp.
A nonsmooth primal-dual method with interwoven PDE constraint solver
Authors: Jensen Bjørn , Valkonen Tuomo
Published: June 2024

We introduce an efficient first-order primal-dual method for the solution of nonsmooth PDE-constrained optimization problems. We achieve this efficiency through not solving the PDE or its linearisation on each iteration of the optimization method. Instead, we run the method interwoven with a simple conventional linear system solver (Jacobi, Gauss–Seidel, conjugate gradients), always taking only one step of the linear system solver for each step of the optimization method. The control parameter is updated on each iteration as determined by the optimization method. We prove linear convergence under a second-order growth condition, and numerically demonstrate the performance on a variety of PDEs related to inverse problems involving boundary measurements.
The Impact of Structural Integration on Clinical Outcomes among Individuals with Serious Mental Illness and Chronic Illness
Authors: Matthews Elizabeth B. , Lushin Viktor , Macneal Eliza , Marcus Steve C.
Published: June 2024

Though considered a best practice, there is substantial variation in how integrated behavioral health (IBH) services are structured. This study examined the impact of IBH structure on health outcomes among individuals with serious mental illness (SMI) and chronic disease receiving care in community health centers (CHCs). Data from the ADVANCE network identified 8,548 individuals with co-occurring SMI diabetes and 16,600 with an SMI and hypertension. Logistic regression tested whether IBH type impacted disease specific health outcomes among these populations. Among those with diabetes or hypertension, colocated care was associated with better health outcomes related to HbA1c, blood pressure control, and BMI compared to less coordinated and unintegrated care, though there was significant variation in this relationship across SMI diagnoses. Results reflect that colocation of primary care and behavioral health may improve outcomes for individuals with bipolar disorder or major depression and chronic disease, but that CHC-based integrated care may not be optimized for individuals with schizophrenia.
Toward effective secure code reviews: an empirical study of security-related coding weaknesses
Authors: Charoenwet Wachiraphan , Thongtanunam Patanamon , Pham Van-Thuan , Treude Christoph
Published: June 2024

Identifying security issues early is encouraged to reduce the latent negative impacts on the software systems. Code review is a widely-used method that allows developers to manually inspect modified code, catching security issues during a software development cycle. However, existing code review studies often focus on known vulnerabilities, neglecting coding weaknesses, which can introduce real-world security issues that are more visible through code review. The practices of code reviews in identifying such coding weaknesses are not yet fully investigated. To better understand this, we conducted an empirical case study in two large open-source projects, OpenSSL and PHP. Based on 135,560 code review comments, we found that reviewers raised security concerns in 35 out of 40 coding weakness categories. Surprisingly, some coding weaknesses related to past vulnerabilities, such as memory errors and resource management, were discussed less often than the vulnerabilities. Developers attempted to address raised security concerns in many cases (39%-41%), but a substantial portion was merely acknowledged (30%-36%), and some went unfixed due to disagreements about solutions (18%-20%). This highlights that coding weaknesses can slip through code review even when identified. Our findings suggest that reviewers can identify various coding weaknesses leading to security issues during code reviews. However, these results also reveal shortcomings in current code review practices, indicating the need for more effective mechanisms or support for increasing awareness of security issue management in code reviews.
ChatGPT is bullshit
Authors: Hicks Michael Townsen , Humphries James , Slater Joe
Published: June 2024

Recently, there has been considerable interest in large language models: machine learning systems which produce human-like text and dialogue. Applications of these systems have been plagued by persistent inaccuracies in their output; these are often called “AI hallucinations”. We argue that these falsehoods, and the overall activity of large language models, is better understood as bullshit in the sense explored by Frankfurt (On Bullshit, Princeton, 2005): the models are in an important way indifferent to the truth of their outputs. We distinguish two ways in which the models can be said to be bullshitters, and argue that they clearly meet at least one of these definitions. We further argue that describing AI misrepresentations as bullshit is both a more useful and more accurate way of predicting and discussing the behaviour of these systems.
Living the Language of Psychotherapy: How Therapists Use Their Experiences from Being Patients
Authors: Råbu Marit , Binder Per-Einar , Moltu Christian
Published: June 2024

Personal therapy is a requirement in several psychotherapy-training programs, and more than 80% of therapists have been psychotherapy patients. No quantitative evidence of the effects on their patients’ outcomes has been presented. However, qualitative studies and expert experiences highlight the value of therapists having been patients themselves. To investigate this further, we used in-depth qualitative methods to explore the experiences of eight early career psychologists. For our data collection, the participants wrote reflexive notes on two occasions, and met for a full day of focus groups. The notes and transcriptions of the focus groups were analyzed from the perspective of reflexive hermeneutic phenomenology. In all, the therapists had been patients in 19 courses of various psychotherapies. The core experiential themes were: (1) their own suffering had been for real; (2) ambivalence of sharing vulnerability; (3) the significance of experiencing theoretical concepts – the language of psychotherapy – in real life; (4) dealing with shame; (5) the need to know that therapists may become so important that the patient can easily be hurt; and (6) the therapist became an inner model that the patient could use. The therapists seemed to use their psychotherapy experiences in their personal development and professional lives. Therapists may have a unique opportunity to benefit from psychotherapy due to the language they have acquired for sharing experiences with their therapists.
Age exacerbates the negative effect of depression on executive functioning in racial and ethnic minorities
Authors: Niu Zhimei , Haley Andreana P. , Clark Alexandra L. , Duarte Audrey
Published: June 2024

Age and depression may interact to produce a “double jeopardy” for cognitive impairment, and executive functioning, in cognitively unimpaired aging. Few studies have considered middle age or the ethnoracial diversity of subjects, despite evidence of more severe cognitive outcomes in historically minoritized people. In this pilot study, we investigated the impact of age on depression-related cognitive impairment and the underlying brain volumes in middle-aged non-Hispanic White adults (116), and Hispanic and Black adults (60), with a total number of 176 adults. The result shows a significant interaction between age and depression for executive functioning, specifically for middle-aged Hispanic and Black adults, but not non-Hispanic White adults. Prefrontal cortex volumes, which were reduced in the Black and Hispanic compared to the non-Hispanic White adults, partially mediated the relationship between depression level and executive functioning, across age and ethnoracial group. Collectively, these results suggest that the negative impact of depression on executive functioning and Prefrontal cortex volumes integrity may be exacerbated by age and that historically minoritized people may be particularly sensitive to this double jeopardy.
Assessment of pre-, peri-, and post-surgical practices for elective colorectal patients in a model 4 hospital in Ireland
Authors: O’Connor Gavin David , Taplin Róisín , Murphy Clodagh
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The ERAS protocol is a set of international guidelines established to expedite patients’ discharge after colorectal surgery. It does this by aiming to prevent postoperative complications early, and return the patient to normal function allowing earlier discharge. Complications such as PONV, DVT, ileus and pain are common after surgery to name a few, and delay discharge. Early treatment and prevention of these complications however is suggested to aid a patients’ return to home at earlier rates than traditional practice.

Methods

A prospective chart review and questionnaire was performed on patients undergoing colorectal surgery in UHL in a 6-month period from February to September 2023. Patients were approached on the 3rd day postoperatively and informed about the project. Exclusion criteria included patients who went to HDU or ICU postoperatively.

Results

In total, 33 patients were recruited. A target of greater than 70% compliance was reached for a variety of the elements of the ERAS protocol such as laparoscopic surgery, preoperative assessments, nutritional drinks, LMWH, oral intake within 24 h of surgery, and intraoperative antiemetics. Unsatisfactory compliance was found with documentation of postoperative antibiotics use of preoperative gabapentin.

Conclusion

UHL has a satisfactory compliance of over 70% with a large variety of elements of the ERAS protocol. Areas of improvement required include postoperative antibiotic and preoperative gabapentin usage. With the collective effort of the multidisciplinary team, along with education, the ERAS protocol can successfully be applied and implemented in a model 4 hospital in Ireland.
The Spinocerebellar Ataxia 34-Causing W246G ELOVL4 Mutation Does Not Alter Cerebellar Neuron Populations in a Rat Model
Authors: Fessler Jennifer L. , Stiles Megan A. , Agbaga Martin-Paul , Ahmad Mohiuddin , Sherry David M.
Published: June 2024

Spinocerebellar ataxia 34 (SCA34) is an autosomal dominant disease that arises from point mutations in the fatty acid elongase, Elongation of Very Long Chain Fatty Acids 4 (ELOVL4), which is essential for the synthesis of Very Long Chain-Saturated Fatty Acids (VLC-SFA) and Very Long Chain-Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (VLC-PUFA) (28–34 carbons long). SCA34 is considered a neurodegenerative disease. However, a novel rat model of SCA34 (SCA34-KI rat) with knock-in of the W246G ELOVL4 mutation that causes human SCA34 shows early motor impairment and aberrant synaptic transmission and plasticity without overt neurodegeneration. ELOVL4 is expressed in neurogenic regions of the developing brain, is implicated in cell cycle regulation, and ELOVL4 mutations that cause neuroichthyosis lead to developmental brain malformation, suggesting that aberrant neuron generation due to ELOVL4 mutations might contribute to SCA34. To test whether W246G ELOVL4 altered neuronal generation or survival in the cerebellum, we compared the numbers of Purkinje cells, unipolar brush cells, molecular layer interneurons, granule and displaced granule cells in the cerebellum of wildtype, heterozygous, and homozygous SCA34-KI rats at four months of age, when motor impairment is already present. An unbiased, semi-automated method based on Cellpose 2.0 and ImageJ was used to quantify neuronal populations in cerebellar sections immunolabeled for known neuron-specific markers. Neuronal populations and cortical structure were unaffected by the W246G ELOVL4 mutation by four months of age, a time when synaptic and motor dysfunction are already present, suggesting that SCA34 pathology originates from synaptic dysfunction due to VLC-SFA deficiency, rather than aberrant neuronal production or neurodegeneration.
Exploring hand﻿made pottery traditions and Early Iron Age Iberian networks through the site of La Fonteta (Alicante, Spain)
Authors: del Pino Curbelo Miguel , i Garrigós Jaume Buxeda , Vinader Anton Irene , López Rosendo Ester , Lorrio Alvarado Alberto José , Torres Ortiz Mariano
Published: June 2024

The Phoenician colony of La Fonteta in southeastern Iberia holds significant importance for understanding Phoenician settlement patterns in the region. While previous research has primarily focused on wheel-thrown ceramics indicative of the new technological advancements and trade networks implemented after the Phoenician arrival, handmade ceramics have been somewhat overlooked despite their prevalence in the Early Iron Age (EIA) contexts. Our study, based on the analysis of 36 individuals from recent excavations at La Fonteta, sheds light on the technological aspects (temper choice and estimated firing temperature) and mobility patterns associated with handmade ceramics in this context. Contrary to previous assumptions, our findings indicate that handmade ceramics played a crucial role in regional and broader exchange systems, possibly with limited ties to wheel-thrown ceramics. Moreover, regional mobility seems to have been prominent, likely stemming from local networks and technological frameworks established during the preceding Late Bronze Age (LBA) period.
The optimal cut-off score of the Eating Attitude Test-26 for screening eating disorders in Japan
Authors: Nohara Nobuhiro , Hiraide Maiko , Horie Takeshi , Takakura Shu , Hata Tomokazu , Sudo Nobuyuki , Yoshiuchi Kazuhiro
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The Eating Attitude Test-26 (EAT-26) is a screening tool for eating disorders (EDs) in clinical and non-clinical samples. The cut-off score was suggested to be varied according to target population. However, no studies have examined the appropriateness of the originally proposed score of 20 for screening DSM-5 eating disorders in Japan. This study aimed to identify an appropriate cut-off score to better differentiate clinical and non-clinical samples in Japan for EDs.

Methods

The participants consisted of 54 patients with anorexia nervosa restricting type, 58 patients with anorexia nervosa binge-eating/purging type, 37 patients with bulimia nervosa diagnosed according to DSM-5 criteria, and 190 healthy controls (HCs). Welch’s t test was used to assess differences in age, body mass index (BMI), and total EAT-26 scores between HCs and patients with EDs. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was conducted to identify the optimal cut-off score.

Results

The HCs had significantly higher BMI and lower total EAT-26 mean scores than patients with EDs. The area under the ROC curve was 0.925, indicating that EAT-26 had excellent performance in discriminating patients with EDs from HCs. An optimal cut-off score of 17 was identified, with sensitivity and specificity values of 0.866 and 0.868, respectively.

Conclusions

The result supports the suggestions that optimal cut-off score should be different according to target populations. The newly identified cut-off score of 17 would enable the identification of patients with EDs who have been previously classified as non-clinical samples in the EAT-26 test.

Level of evidence: III: evidence obtained from case–control analytic study.
The role of minority stress in disordered eating: a systematic review of the literature
Authors: Santoniccolo Fabrizio , Rollè Luca
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Sexual and gender minorities (SGMs) show a heightened risk of disordered eating compared to heterosexual and cisgender people, a disparity which may be caused by exposure to minority-specific stressors, such as discrimination and violence. This systematic review aims to summarize available evidence on the role of minority stress in disordered eating and SGM-specific aspects.

Methods

Following PRISMA guidelines, scientific search engines (EBSCO, PUBMED, Web of Science) were screened up to 31st of January 2024, including English-language original research papers containing analyses of the relationship between minority stress and disordered eating. 2416 records were gathered for screening. After application of inclusion and exclusion criteria, thematic analysis was conducted regarding 4 research questions: effects of minority stress on disordered eating, mediating factors, specificities of SGMs and differences between identity categories.

Results

30 studies were included. Several aspects of minority stress are reliably associated with different forms of disordered eating. The relationship between minority stressors and disordered eating is mediated by aspects such as shame, body shame, or negative affect. SGMs show several specificities, such as the presence of a role of LGBTQIA + communities and additional gender-related pressures. Bisexual people and gender minorities appear to feature comparatively higher risks, and gender-related factors shape paths leading to disordered eating risk.

Conclusion

Minority stress is an important predictor of disordered eating, making SGM people’s health particularly at risk. Institutional and organizational anti-discrimination policies are needed, as well as further research. Clinical interventions may benefit from exploring and incorporating how minority stressors impact SGM people.

Evidence level I—Systematic review.
Attributes and Trends of Rentified Capitalism
Authors: Dosi Giovanni , Fanti Lucrezia , Virgillito Maria Enrica
Published: June 2024

What is rentified capitalism? And, how can we characterise its unfolding into the socio-economic sphere? This paper theoretically and empirically defines attributes and trends of rentified capitalism, that we shall argue, it is more than a stage of capitalism, but it rather represents a new socio-economic paradigm characterised by the primacy of rent accumulation. The functioning of rentified capitalism is based on three mechanisms, namely, appropriation, exclusion and commodification. From income distribution, to financialization, from housing to intellectual property rights, the definition of the ownership structure is nowadays progressively favouring the power of rentiers in the production and redistribution spheres, as such jeopardizing the very capacity of capitalism as a system able to generate new economic value and a social and equitable prosperity.
Predictive monitoring of soil organic carbon using multispectral UAV imagery: a case study on a long-term experimental field
Authors: Reyes Javier , Wiedemann Werner , Brand Anna , Franke Jonas , Ließ Mareike
Published: June 2024

Effective monitoring of the soil organic carbon (SOC) content at the field scale is crucial for supporting sustainable agricultural practices. This study evaluates the utility of multispectral data acquired by an unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) during bare soil conditions for predicting the SOC content of a long-term experimental field site (LTE) in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany. Our methodology involves constructing predictive models using multiple algorithms (CUBIST, MARS, linear regression) and applying image correction techniques to enhance prediction accuracy by mitigating the influence of confounding factors such as crop residuals. Among the tested models, the CUBIST algorithm, combined with a pixel selection strategy employing a 2 m radius and stratified image correction, demonstrates the most promising results, achieving an R-squared value of 0.54 and an RMSE of 1.9 g kg−1. Spatial distribution maps generated by this optimized model effectively depict the impact of organic fertilization on the SOC content, although the clarity of these patterns varies depending on the image processing method and algorithm used. Our findings highlight the potential of utilizing UAV-derived multispectral data for SOC monitoring at the LTE scale. However, further research is warranted to assess the generalizability of this approach to agricultural fields with lower SOC variability.
Von wissenden Zweifelnden und unwissenden Überzeugten. Eine latente Klassenanalyse anhand des inklusionsbezogenen pädagogischen Wissens und der inklusionsbezogenen Überzeugungen angehender Grundschullehrkräfte
Authors: Liebner Saskia , Elting Christian , Ertl Sonja
Published: June 2024

Derzeit wird diskutiert, welche spezifischen Kompetenzen Lehrkräfte im Kontext inklusiver Bildung benötigen. Dabei gelten inklusionsbezogenes pädagogisches Wissen sowie entsprechende positive inklusionsbezogene Überzeugungen als bedeutsam. Während zu inklusionsbezogenen Überzeugungen angehender Grundschullehrkräfte zahlreiche Befunde vorliegen, ist das inklusionsbezogene Wissen weitgehend unerforscht. Um angehende Grundschullehrkräfte adäquat auf die Tätigkeit im inklusiven Unterricht vorzubereiten, bedarf es empirisch gesicherter Erkenntnisse über personenzentrierte Ausprägungen und Faktoren inklusionsbezogener professioneller Kompetenzen im Grundschullehramtsstudium. Die vorliegende Studie leistet einen Beitrag zur Bearbeitung dieses Forschungsdesiderats. In einem Querschnittsdesign wurdenN = 716 Grundschullehramtsstudierende bayrischer Universitäten zu ihrem inklusionsbezogenen pädagogischen Wissen und ihren inklusionsbezogenen Überzeugungen befragt. Insgesamt lagen die inklusionsbezogenen Kompetenzen der befragten Grundschullehramtsstudierenden im positiven Bereich. Im Rahmen latenter Klassenanalysen konnten jedoch vier Klassen identifiziert werden, die sich in diesen Variablen signifikant unterscheiden und mitwissende Überzeugte, wissende Zweifelnde, unwissende Überzeugteundunwissende Zweifelndebeschreiben lassen. Klassenunterschiede in der Ausprägung der inklusionsbezogenen Kompetenzfacetten scheinen vor allem abhängig vom Studienfortschritt und dem Besuch inklusionsbezogener Lehrveranstaltungen zu sein. Diskutiert werden Implikationen für die Ausgestaltung adaptiver Lehrangebote und die Struktur des Studiums.
On the symplectic self-adjointness and residual spectral emptiness of upper triangular Hamiltonian operator matrices
Authors: Liu Jie , Jin Guohai , Eerdun Buhe
Published: June 2024

This paper deals with the symplectic self-adjointness and residual spectral emptiness of upper triangular Hamiltonian operator matrices $$H=\left( {\begin{matrix}A&{}B\\ 0&{}-A^*\end{matrix}}\right) $$

H
=

A

B

0

-

A
∗

. First, for symplectic self-adjoint Hamiltonian operator H, based on detailed classification of point spectrum $$\sigma _p(H)$$

σ
p

(
H
)

and residual spectrum $$\sigma _r(H)$$

σ
r

(
H
)

, the symmetry about imaginary axis is given between $$\sigma _p(H)$$

σ
p

(
H
)

, $$\sigma _r(H)$$

σ
r

(
H
)

, deficiency spectrum $$\sigma _{\delta }(H)$$

σ
δ

(
H
)

, compression spectrum $$\sigma _\mathrm{{com}}(H)$$

σ
com

(
H
)

and approximate point spectrum $$\sigma _\mathrm{{app}}(H)$$

σ
app

(
H
)

. Second, by means of the spectral symmetry, the sufficient and necessary conditions are given for $$\sigma _r(H)=\varnothing $$

σ
r

(
H
)

=
∅

, $$\sigma _{r_1}(H)=\varnothing $$

σ

r
1

(
H
)

=
∅

and $$\sigma _{r_2}(H)=\varnothing $$

σ

r
2

(
H
)

=
∅

, respectively. Then, for $$H=\left( {\begin{matrix}A&{}B\\ 0&{}-A^*\end{matrix}}\right) $$

H
=

A

B

0

-

A
∗

, it is proved that H is symplectic self-adjoint, if H is defined with diagonal domain $${\mathcal {D}}(H)={\mathcal {D}}(A)\oplus {\mathcal {D}}(A^*)$$

D

(
H
)

=
D

(
A
)

⊕
D

(

A
∗

)

. Finally, for $$H=\left( {\begin{matrix}A&{}B\\ 0&{}-A^*\end{matrix}}\right) $$

H
=

A

B

0

-

A
∗

defined with diagonal domain, using the space decomposition, the sufficient and necessary conditions for $$\sigma _r(H)=\varnothing $$

σ
r

(
H
)

=
∅

and $$\sigma _{r_1}(H)=\varnothing $$

σ

r
1

(
H
)

=
∅

are described in detail, respectively, by line operator, null space, and range of inner elements.
Identification of the potato moisture diffusion coefficient considering shrinkage: a nonlinear estimator approach to an inverse problem
Authors: Vera Carlos Martínez , Mendoza Mario Vizcarra
Published: June 2024

This study aimed to determine the moisture diffusion coefficients of potatoes by taking into account the shrinkage that occurs during the drying process. In addition, the study also considered the scenario where shrinkage was neglected for comparison purposes. The main objective of this study is to establish the importance of considering shrinking phenomena for proper modeling of the drying process and to highlight the advantages of a recently published methodology for estimating parameters. The potato samples, which were dried in a moisture balance, were prepared such that the moisture diffusion was unidimensional. The determination of the moisture diffusivity when shrinkage is neglected is based on the analytical solution of the diffusion equation when constant diffusivity is assumed. When shrinkage is considered, the diffusion coefficient is identified via a nonlinear estimator constructed based on a numerical solution to the diffusion equation. The shrinking rate and the drying kinetics are the information fed to the algorithm. Arrhenius-type expressions for the dependency of the diffusivity on temperature were obtained, and from them, activation energies were determined for both cases: considering and neglecting shrinkage. From the comparison of the effective diffusion coefficients obtained, we conclude that when shrinkage is neglected, the diffusion coefficients are underestimated. A model for the diffusion coefficient as a function of temperature and concentration is provided.
Product Ecodesign: An Application of Bio-Based Materials in the Personal Care Packaging Industry
Authors: Simboli Alberto , Sinibaldi Laura , Taddeo Raffaella , Rimano Michela , Cutarella Luca , Casolani Veronica
Published: June 2024

The increasing amount of plastic materials produced and their persistence in the natural environment after the use stage makes them highly critical from the environmental viewpoint and human health and much efforts are being made to find valid alternatives worldwide. This is particularly true for the packaging industry where the use of plastics is more intense and products often have a very short useful life. Ecodesign is a recognized approach capable of proposing effective solutions to reduce the impact of plastic materials, including their replacement with alternative ones. In this view, bioplastics have been recognized as a new generation of materials characterized by a potential lower environmental burden, along their life cycle, including the end-of-life phase. The same cannot yet be said for their technological and production performance, both at an industrial level and the use phase, especially for durable products.

This article refers to the personal care industry and aims at exploring, in the Circular Economy framework, the Ecodesign of a personal care plastic dispenser. In this specific sector, the use of bio-based materials is still very limited and in an early stage, differently, from other industries (e.g. agri-food) where, instead, the applications are much more widespread. In particular, a material substitution solution drew on bio-based materials has been adopted in respect of conventional polypropylene and polyethylene. The technological performances of such bio-based materials have been evaluated through laboratory, production and use tests; the results obtained highlight that they are reaching levels comparable to conventional plastics. The regulatory, environmental and economic implications of their potential use at an industrial level are also discussed.
Prevalence and predictors of postpartum depression and generalized anxiety symptoms among women who delivered at a tertiary hospital in Mwanza Tanzania: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Mwita Matiko , Patten Scott , Dewey Deborah
Published: June 2024

Background

Postpartum depression and anxiety are major public health concerns that affect 3–39% of women after childbearing and can adversely affect maternal and child health. Most studies have investigated postpartum depression and anxiety and their associated factors among women 4–12 weeks after delivery. There is a scarcity of research among women immediately after delivery from low- and middle-income countries, the gap this study aimed to fill.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 386 postpartum women within one week after delivery. The Edinburg Postnatal Depression Scale was used to assess depressive symptoms and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder − 7 scale was used to screen for symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder. Participants were systematically selected from the postnatal wards and interviewed by trained research assistants from November 2019 to March 2020.

Results

Using standard cut points, the prevalence of depressive and anxiety symptoms was 25.39%, and 37.31% respectively. Having a baby with a weight of 2.5 kgs or more and having partner support were associated with decreased odds of both depression and anxiety symptoms. In contrast, complications during delivery, caesarian section, marital status, and partner violence, were associated with increased odds of depressive and anxiety symptoms post-delivery.

Conclusion

There was a high prevalence of postpartum depression and anxiety symptoms among the study participants in the first week post-delivery, with delivery complications and outcome and psychosocial supports identified as associated factors for depression and anxiety symptoms. These findings highlight the need for early screening to identify those at risk for appropriate intervention.
Madhyamaka and Ontic Structural Realism
Authors: Friend Toby
Published: June 2024

I’ll argue that one particular argument of Nāgārjuna’s against causation in the Mūlamadhyamakakārikā deserves careful consideration from the perspective of contemporary western metaphysics. To show why this is the case, I’ll offer an interpretation of the key passages which differs from at least one popular reading. I’ll then aim to show that a whole swathe of metaphysical views about causation are problematic in light of Nāgārjuna’s argument, so interpreted. I’ll conclude, however, that one contemporary view in metaphysics has the means to respond to this argument: Ontic Structural Realism.