bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systemic Inflammatory Indices and Liver Dysfunction in Turner Syndrome Patients: A Retrospective Case-control Study
Authors: Zaegel Nadia , Brahimaj Rigleta , Battaglia-Hsu Shyuefang , Lamiral Zohra , Feigerlova Eva
Published: June 2024

Context

Liver function abnormalities have been reported in patients with Turner syndrome (TS); however, the pathophysiological mechanisms have not been well elucidated. Low-grade inflammation has been associated with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease.

Objective

We studied systemic inflammatory indices [aspartate transaminase to lymphocyte ratio index (ALRI), aspartate transaminase to platelet ratio index (APRI), gamma-glutamyl transferase to platelet ratio (GPR), neutrophil-lymphocyte-ratio (NLR), and platelet lymphocyte ratio and examined their associations with the hepatic abnormalities observed in these subjects.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of the medical records of 79 patients with TS (mean age 32.5 ± 9.2 SD years) who were treated at the University Hospital of Nancy. Using matched-pair analyses based on age and body mass index (BMI), we compared 66 patients with TS (25.6 ± 7.3 years; BMI 25.9 ± 6.3 kg/m2) to 66 healthy control participants (24.7 ± 6.8 years; BMI 26 ± 6.7 kg/m2).

Results

Liver function abnormalities were present in 57% of the patients with TS. The ALRI, APRI, GPR, and NLR were significantly greater in patients with TS who presented with liver dysfunction than in patients with TS who had normal liver function. According to the matched-pair analyses, the ALRI, APRI, and GPR were greater in patients with TS than in healthy control participants. Logistic regression revealed that a diagnosis of TS was significantly associated with ALRI, APRI, and GPR and liver dysfunction.

Conclusion

Noninvasive inflammatory indices (ALRI, APRI, and GPR) might be a promising indicators of liver dysfunction in patients with TS. Future prospective studies are needed to confirm our findings and to explore the clinical significance and prognostic value of systemic inflammatory indices in Turner syndrome.
Neuromuscular Emergencies
Authors: Albin Catherine S. W.
Published: June 2024

OBJECTIVE

This article aims to familiarize the reader with the clinical approach, diagnostic considerations, and treatment strategies for patients presenting with abrupt-onset or acutely worsening weakness due to neuromuscular disorders.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

Neuromuscular weakness is often the result of an inflammatory process. In recent years, there has been growing recognition of pathologic antibodies that cause neuromuscular injury. This has allowed clinicians to make a more accurate diagnosis. Additionally, neuromuscular junction disorders and myopathies are increasingly identified as the adverse effects of novel anticancer therapies, namely immune checkpoint inhibitors. More data are being incorporated into frameworks for neuroprognostication after neuromuscular emergencies, especially for commonly encountered disorders such as Guillain-Barré syndrome.

ESSENTIAL POINTS

Care of patients with neuromuscular emergencies requires prompt attention to respiratory status. Once supportive measures are in place to protect the airway and facilitate effective ventilation, diagnostic considerations should hinge on appropriate neurologic localization. Aggressive immunosuppression is often required for immune-mediated neuromuscular disorders, and clinicians must be thoughtful in selecting a strategy that best aligns with each patient’s risk factors and comorbidities.
Neuroinfectious Emergencies
Authors: Reynolds Alexandra S.
Published: June 2024

OBJECTIVE

This article describes nervous system infections and complications that lead to neurologic emergencies.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

New research on the use of dexamethasone in viral and fungal infections is reviewed. The use of advanced MRI techniques to evaluate nervous system infections is discussed.

ESSENTIAL POINTS

Neurologic infections become emergencies when they lead to a rapid decline in a patient’s function. Emergent complications may result from neurologic infections that, if not identified promptly, can lead to permanent deficits or death. These complications include cerebral edema and herniation, spinal cord compression, hydrocephalus, vasculopathy resulting in ischemic stroke, venous thrombosis, intracerebral hemorrhage, status epilepticus, and neuromuscular respiratory weakness.
Emergent Management of Hypoxic-Ischemic Brain Injury
Authors: Steinberg Alexis
Published: June 2024

OBJECTIVE

This article outlines interventions used to improve outcomes for patients with hypoxic-ischemic brain injury after cardiac arrest.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

Emergent management of patients after cardiac arrest requires prevention and treatment of primary and secondary brain injury. Primary brain injury is minimized by excellent initial resuscitative efforts. Secondary brain injury prevention requires the detection and correction of many pathophysiologic processes that may develop in the hours to days after the initial arrest. Key physiologic parameters important to secondary brain injury prevention include optimization of mean arterial pressure, cerebral perfusion, oxygenation and ventilation, intracranial pressure, temperature, and cortical hyperexcitability. This article outlines recent data regarding the treatment and prevention of secondary brain injury. Different patients likely benefit from different treatment strategies, so an individualized approach to treatment and prevention of secondary brain injury is advisable. Clinicians must use multimodal sources of data to prognosticate outcomes after cardiac arrest while recognizing that all prognostic tools have shortcomings.

ESSENTIAL POINTS

Neurologists should be involved in the postarrest care of patients with hypoxic-ischemic brain injury to improve their outcomes. Postarrest care requires nuanced and patient-centered approaches to the prevention and treatment of primary and secondary brain injury and neuroprognostication.
Prognostication in Neurocritical Care
Authors: Muehlschlegel Susanne
Published: June 2024

OBJECTIVE

This article synthesizes the current literature on prognostication in neurocritical care, identifies existing challenges, and proposes future research directions to reduce variability and enhance scientific and patient-centered approaches to neuroprognostication.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

Patients with severe acute brain injury often lack the capacity to make their own medical decisions, leaving surrogate decision makers responsible for life-or-death choices. These decisions heavily rely on clinicians’ prognostication, which is still considered an art because of the previous lack of specific guidelines. Consequently, there is significant variability in neuroprognostication practices. This article examines various aspects of neuroprognostication. It explores the cognitive approach to prognostication, highlights the use of statistical modeling such as Bayesian models and machine learning, emphasizes the importance of clinician-family communication during prognostic disclosures, and proposes shared decision making for more patient-centered care.

ESSENTIAL POINTS

This article identifies ongoing challenges in the field and emphasizes the need for future research to ameliorate variability in neuroprognostication. By focusing on scientific methodologies and patient-centered approaches, this research aims to provide guidance and tools that may enhance neuroprognostication in neurocritical care.
Neuro-oncologic Emergencies
Authors: Maciel Carolina B. , Busl Katharina M.
Published: June 2024

OBJECTIVE

Neuro-oncologic emergencies have become more frequent as cancer remains one of the leading causes of death in the United States, second only to heart disease. This article highlights key aspects of epidemiology, diagnosis, and management of acute neurologic complications in primary central nervous system malignancies and systemic cancer, following three thematic classifications: (1) complications that are anatomically or intrinsically tumor-related, (2) complications that are tumor-mediated, and (3) complications that are treatment-related.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

The main driver of mortality in patients with brain metastasis is systemic disease progression; however, intracranial hypertension, treatment-resistant seizures, and overall decline due to increased intracranial burden of disease are the main factors underlying neurologic-related deaths. Advances in the understanding of tumor-specific characteristics can better inform risk stratification of neurologic complications. Following standardized grading and management algorithms for neurotoxic syndromes related to newer immunologic therapies is paramount to achieving favorable outcomes.

ESSENTIAL POINTS

Neuro-oncologic emergencies span the boundaries of subspecialties in neurology and require a broad understanding of neuroimmunology, neuronal hyperexcitability, CSF flow dynamics, intracranial compliance, and neuroanatomy.
Emergent Management of Central Nervous System Demyelinating Disorders
Authors: Czeisler Barry M.
Published: June 2024

OBJECTIVE

This article reviews the various conditions that can present with acute and severe central nervous system demyelination, the broad differential diagnosis of these conditions, the most appropriate diagnostic workup, and the acute treatment regimens to be administered to help achieve the best possible patient outcomes.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

The discovery of anti–aquaporin 4 (AQP4) antibodies and anti–myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibodies in the past two decades has revolutionized our understanding of acute demyelinating disorders, their evaluation, and their management.

ESSENTIAL POINTS

Demyelinating disorders comprise a large category of neurologic disorders seen by practicing neurologists. In the majority of cases, patients with these conditions do not require care in an intensive care unit. However, certain disorders may cause severe demyelination that necessitates intensive care unit admission because of numerous simultaneous multifocal lesions, tumefactive lesions, or lesions in certain brain locations that lead to acute severe neurologic dysfunction. Intensive care may be necessary for the management and prevention of complications for patients who have severely altered mental status, rapidly progressive neurologic worsening, elevated intracranial pressure, severe cerebral edema, status epilepticus, or respiratory failure.
Επίδραση του παλλόμενου ηλεκτρικού πεδίου στα κρασιά
Authors: Τουλάκη Άρτεμις
Published: June 2024

Η τεχνική της χρήσης του παλλόμενου ηλεκτρικού πεδίου, βασίζεται στην χρήση υψηλής έντασης παλλόμενου ηλεκτρικού πεδίου για την διάρρηξη της κυτταρικής μεμβράνης. Χρησιμοποιείται ως μη θερμική μέθοδος για την αδρανοποίηση των μικροοργανισμών. Αποτελεί μια εναλλακτική λύση για την παστερίωση των τροφίμων, χωρίς την υποβάθμιση των οργανοληπτικών και των θρεπτικών χαρακτηριστικών. Επιπλέον, υπήρξε ένα ενδιαφέρον για την εφαρμογή του παλλόμενου ηλεκτρικού πεδίου και για άλλους λόγους, όπως η μείωση του χρόνου χρήσης ξύλινων τσιπς για την βελτίωση οργανοληπτικών συστατικών του κρασιού. Η χρήση του παλλόμενου ηλεκτρικού πεδίου μπορεί να αποτελέσει μια πιο οικονομική εναλλακτική μέθοδο, χωρίς να επηρεάζεται αρνητικά η ποιότητα του οίνου. Η διαδικασία παραγωγής οίνου περιλαμβάνει πολλά στάδια όπως η έκθλιψη των σταφυλιών, η αλκοολική ζύμωση, η μηλογαλακτική ζύμωση, η σταθεροποίηση τους, το φιλτράρισμα τους αλλά και η παλαίωση τους. Τα οινοποιεία σήμερα, χρησιμοποιούν γαλλική και αμερικάνικη δρυ είτε σε βαρέλια, είτε με μορφή δούγιας ή τσιπς. Η εναλλακτική χρήση ξύλων, όπως της ακακίας, της αρκεύθου, της βερικοκιάς, της ροδακινιάς, της καστανιάς, της μηλιάς αλλά και της κερασιάς μπορούν να ανοίξουν τον δρόμο για την παραγωγή πιο πολύπλοκων οίνων. Ακόμη πολύ σημαντική κρίνεται η εκμετάλλευση εγχώριας ελληνικής ξυλείας που θα τονώσει τομείς της ελληνικής οικονομίας και θα συμπιέσει το κόστος οινοποίησης. Η ποικιλία που χρησιμοποιήθηκε στα πειραματικά είναι η ποικιλία Ξινόμαυρο, από 4 διαφορετικές περιοχές της Μακεδονίας : Αμύνταιο, Βελβεντός, Γουμένισσα και Νάουσα.
Numerical solution of systems of ODEs with applications in chemistry and physics
Authors: Λίν Σιά-Λιάνκ
Published: June 2024

Η διατριβή εστιάζει στην ανάπτυξη και εφαρμογή αριθμητικών μεθόδων επίλυσης συστημάτων διαφορικών εξισώσεων σε διάφορους επιστημονικούς κλάδους όπως τα εφαρμοσμένα μαθηματικά, η πληροφορική, η υπολογιστική φυσική και η χημεία. Η έρευνα διερευνά την αποδοτικότητα και την αποτελεσματικότητα διαφορετικών τεχνικών αριθμητικής ολοκλήρωσης, ιδιαίτερα στην αντιμετώπιση προβλημάτων που σχετίζονται με την εξίσωση Schrödinger, το πρόβλημα του σώματος N και άλλα ζητήματα του πραγματικού κόσμου που περιγράφονται από συνηθισμένες διαφορικές εξισώσεις με ταλαντωτικές λύσεις. Οι βασικές συνεισφορές της διατριβής περιλαμβάνουν την ανάπτυξη γραμμικών μεθόδων πολλαπλών βημάτων, συμπεριλαμβανομένων γραμμικών μεθόδων πολλαπλών βημάτων ενός σταδίου και υβριδικών μεθόδων, από αξιόλογους ερευνητές όπως οι Quinlan, Tremaine, Paptis, Allison, Raptis, Simos, Kalogiratou και άλλοι. Αυτές οι μέθοδοι, με σταθερούς συντελεστές και μεταβαλλόμενες τάξεις, έχουν προταθεί για την ολοκλήρωση τροχιακών προβλημάτων, της εξίσωσης Schrödinger και άλλων πολύπλοκων συστημάτων. Το έγγραφο εξετάζει επίσης την ιστορική εξέλιξη των αριθμητικών μεθόδων, από πρώιμα έργα των Euler, Runge και Kutta σε σύγχρονες προσεγγίσεις όπως οι μέθοδοι Runge-Kutta και οι μέθοδοι Runge-Kutta-Nyström. Τονίζει τη σημασία των αριθμητικών μεθόδων για την προσέγγιση λύσεων σε διαφορικές εξισώσεις για πρακτικές εφαρμογές στη φυσική, τη μηχανική και άλλα επιστημονικά πεδία. Συνολικά, η διατριβή παρέχει μια ολοκληρωμένη επισκόπηση των αριθμητικών μεθόδων, των θεωρητικών τους θεμελίων και των πρακτικών εφαρμογών τους, με στόχο να συμβάλει στην πρόοδο των υπολογιστικών τεχνικών για την επίλυση διαφορικών εξισώσεων σε διάφορους επιστημονικούς τομείς.
RedLionfish – fast Richardson-Lucy Deconvolution package for efficient point spread function suppression in volumetric data
Authors: Perdigão Luís M. A. , Berger Casper , Yee Neville B.-Y. , Darrow Michele C. , Basham Mark
Published: June 2024

The experimental limitations with optics observed in many microscopy and astronomy instruments result in detrimental effects for the imaging of objects. This can be generally described mathematically as a convolution of the real object image with the point spread function that characterizes the optical system. The popular Richardson-Lucy (RL) deconvolution algorithm is widely used for the inverse process of restoring the data without these optical aberrations, often a critical step in data processing of experimental data. Here we present the versatile RedLionfish python package, that was written to make the RL deconvolution of volumetric (3D) data easier to run, very fast (by exploiting GPU computing capabilities) and with automatic handling of hardware limitations for large datasets. It can be used programmatically in Python/numpy using conda or PyPi package managers, or with a graphical user interface as a napari plugin.
On a generalization of the Nagumo–Brezis theorem
Authors: Eftekharinasab Kaveh , Horidko Ruslana
Published: June 2024

We generalize the Nagumo–Brezis theorem to the category of MCk-Fréchet manifolds. Then we will apply the obtained result to locate a critical value of a real-valued mapping over these manifolds.
Construction of continuous controlled K-g-fusion frames in Hilbert spaces
Authors: GHOSH PRASENJIT , Samanta Tapas Kumar
Published: June 2024

We present the notion of continuous controlled K-g-fusion frame in a Hilbert space which is generalization of discrete controlled K-g-fusion frame.We discuss some characterizations of a continuous controlled K-g-fusion frame. A relationship between a continuous controlled K-g-fusion frame and a quotient operator has been studied. Finally, stability of a continuous controlled g-fusion frame has been described.
Advancements in the Treatment of Diabetic Macular Edema: Current Strategies and Future Directions
Authors: Czach Zuzanna , Czach Magdalena , Bachurska Dominika , Kopacz Wojciech , Mazurek Łukasz , Stradczuk Monika , Mazurek Wojciech , Rękas Barbara , Kruczyk Barbara , Piętak Mateusz , Olędzka Joanna
Published: June 2024

This narrative review examines current and emerging treatment strategies for diabetic macular edema (DME), a complication of diabetic retinopathy characterised by fluid accumulation in the macula, which can lead to vision impairment. The incidence of DME is particularly high in patients with long-standing diabetes and advanced retinopathy. The current treatment options for DME include anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agents, corticosteroids, and laser therapies. Anti-VEGF agents, including bevacizumab, ranibizumab, aflibercept, and the more recently developed brolucizumab and faricimab, have been demonstrated to reduce macular thickness and improve visual acuity. Brolucizumab offers the advantage of fewer injections due to its longer duration of action, although it carries a higher risk of ocular inflammation compared to other anti-VEGF agents. The dual inhibition of the VEGF and angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2) pathways by faricimab may enhance vascular stability and reduce inflammation, potentially improving patient outcomes. Steroid therapies, including dexamethasone, fluocinolone acetonide, and triamcinolone acetonide, represent an alternative for patients who do not respond adequately to anti-VEGF treatment. Laser therapies, including focal, navigated, and subthreshold laser treatments, remain a crucial component in the management of DME, with the ability to seal leaking vessels and reduce fluid accumulation. In order to achieve the best outcomes for patients, it is essential to continue to advance these treatment modalities and adopt a personalised, multifaceted approach.
Effect of creatine supplementation on cognitive function and mood
Authors: Walczak Kamil , Krasnoborska Julia , Samojedny Sylwia , Superson Maciej , Szmyt Katarzyna , Szymańska Katarzyna , Wilk-Trytko Klaudia
Published: June 2024

Background: Creatine, a naturally occurring compound plays a crucial role in cellular energy metabolism, particularly in tissues with high energy demands like muscles and the brain. Beyond its well-established role in physical performance enhancement, recent research has revealed its potential benefits for cognitive functions and mood regulation. This review paper aims to comprehensively analyze the existing literature on creatine supplementation's effects on cognitive functions and mood.
State of Knowledge: Findings suggest that creatine supplementation enhances memory, attention, and executive functions, especially under conditions of stress or sleep deprivation. Moreover, it exhibits mood-stabilizing effects, potentially offering relief for symptoms of depression and fatigue. Creatine's ability to augment brain energy metabolism, alongside its neuroprotective properties, underlies its cognitive and mood-enhancing effects. While generally safe, caution is advised, particularly in populations with kidney diseases or those using medications affecting kidney function.
Summary: Creatine emerges as a promising adjunct therapy for enhancing cognitive functions and promoting emotional well-being beyond its traditional role in physical performance.The review underscores the need for further research to elucidate the precise mechanisms of creatine's effects and explore its synergistic potential with other cognitive-enhancing supplements.
Paraffinoma of the hands: a case report
Authors: Choi Jinil , Hwang HuiBeom , Kwon Sung Tack , Kim Byung Jun
Published: June 2024

Paraffin injection has been widely used to improve body contouring or to augment various body parts, although it has now been abandoned owing to serious complications. Paraffin injection may lead to complications after a long latency period, ranging from several years to several decades. Here, we present the rare case of a 77-year-old woman who suffered from recurrent wound problems after a bilateral paraffin injection into her hands 40 years ago. Initially, conservative debridement was carried out due to the patient’s reluctance to undergo extensive surgery and cost concerns. However, this resulted in recurrent wound dehiscence and infection. After serial debridement procedures, a skin graft was performed on her right hand. The patient complained of a depressed contour and numbness at the skin graft site, and tightness and discomfort of her right hand during flexion of the metacarpophalangeal joint. Three years later, the patient presented with a highly similar wound on her left hand. Thorough excision of the soft tissue infiltrated by paraffin was performed, followed by reconstruction using a sensate free anterolateral thigh flap. The patient responded well postoperatively without complications, displaying a fair range of motion without discomfort, sensory restoration of the flap, and satisfaction with the contour of the dorsum. This case report highlights the importance of complete excision of soft tissues infiltrated by paraffin for definitive treatment. Among the various reconstruction options, a sensate free flap is a good choice for achieving favorable functional and esthetic outcomes in hand reconstruction after radical excision of a paraffinoma.
An osteolytic lesion of the proximal ulna in a patient with Maffucci syndrome: a case report
Authors: Kim Hyeon Jun , Jung Sung Yoon , Kim Ji Woong , Park Min Gyung
Published: June 2024

Maffucci syndrome is a rare, congenital, and nonhereditary syndrome characterized by the occurrence of multiple enchondromas and hemangiomas. According to previous studies, patients diagnosed with Maffucci syndrome have a higher risk of developing malignant tumors, such as ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, breast cancer, and central nervous system cancer, in addition to malignant transformations of enchondromas. The authors report a case of a 37-year-old male patient with Maffucci syndrome who presented with multiple enchondromas and hemangiomas. This patient’s presentation and management are discussed, along with a review of the literature. Maffucci syndrome should be expected when encountering a patient with multiple enchondromas and suspected hemangiomas in the limbs. Even if benign lesions such as enchondromas or hemangiomas are diagnosed, regular follow-up is required to monitor for malignant transformations and the development of malignant tumors in other organs.
Information Search Within a Web Page: Modeling the Full Sequence of Eye Movement Decisions, Subjective Value Updating, and First Clicks
Authors: Lu Joy , Hutchinson J. Wesley
Published: June 2024

Online retail settings often present shoppers with large, complex choice sets where they need to quickly and dynamically weigh the benefits and costs of search within each web page. We build a model of information search within a web page using eye-tracking data collected during two incentive-compatible online shopping experiments, in which participants browsed the websites of two different clothing retailers (Experiments 1 and 2), as well as previously reported data from a laboratory experiment involving choices among snack food assortments (Experiment 3). Our model incorporates features that build upon recent advances in descriptive and normative models of information sampling and search in psychology and economics. First, our model captures how people decide where to look by treating eye fixations on clickable options as a series of “split-second” decisions that depend on estimates of option attractiveness and navigation effort. Second, our model assumes that the value of each option is learned via Bayesian updating. Third, the choice to end search on the web page depends on a dynamic decision threshold. Our model outperforms benchmarks that assume random search, instant learning, fixed thresholds, nonheterogeneous thresholds, and stochastic accumulator stopping rules. Explicitly modeling the sequence of eye fixation decisions results in accurate counterfactual simulations of the effects of hypothetical product orderings on search duration and quality as verified using experimental manipulation, and it can be applied flexibly to a wide range of web-page layouts. Systematic differences across experiments highlight the importance of accounting for product familiarity, choice-set size, and the role of category outside options.

This paper was accepted by Ilia Tsetlin, behavioral economics and decision analysis.

Funding: This work was supported by the Jay H. Baker Retailing Center and the Wharton Behavioral Lab at the University of Pennsylvania.

Supplemental Material: The online appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.02983 .
Preoperative Grading of Brain Gliomas Using 3D-ResNet18 Based on Multimodal MRI and Attention Mechanism
Authors: Yuanzhe He , Chengyi Qian , Yuanjun Wang
Published: June 2024

In response to the prevalent challenge of imprecise preoperative glioma grading prediction, a multimodal Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) image with attention mechanism prediction model based on Residual Network (ResNet) is proposed for accurate prediction. To achieve this, publicly accessible datasets from BraTS 2019 and BraTS 2020 were employed. MRI images across three modalities underwent preprocessing, cropping, and subsequent stacking to generate comprehensive multimodal representations. Meanwhile, An Efficient Channel Attention (ECA) mechanism based on 3D data (3D-ECA) is proposed and introduced to reduce the problem of slow network convergence and overfitting. Notably, experiments demonstrate that the 3D-ECA attention mechanism added to the model improves the network training speed and the classification accuracy of the model, and the classification accuracy reached 88.1%, with an impressive area under the subject working characteristic curve of 0.918. Therefore, the 3D-ResNet18 deep learning model, incorporating multimodal MRI and 3D-ECA attention mechanisms, demonstrates high accuracy and robustness in distinguishing between high-grade and low-grade gliomas. Thus, showcasing significant clinical potential for glioma classification and diagnosis.
The clinical and cost-effectiveness of elective primary total knee replacement with PAtellar Resurfacing compared to selective patellar resurfacing: a pragmatic multicentre randomized controlled Trial (PART)
Authors: Boon Adam , Barnett Elizabeth , Culliford Lucy , Evans Rebecca , Frost Jessica , Hansen-Kaku Zastra , Hollingworth William , Johnson Emma , Judge Andrew , Marques Elsa M. R. , Metcalfe Andrew , Navvuga Patricia , Petrie Michael J. , Pike Katie , Wylde Vikki , Whitehouse Michael R. , Blom Ashley W. , Matharu Gulraj S.
Published: June 2024

Aims

During total knee replacement (TKR), surgeons can choose whether or not to resurface the patella, with advantages and disadvantages of each approach. Recently, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommended always resurfacing the patella, rather than never doing so. NICE found insufficient evidence on selective resurfacing (surgeon’s decision based on intraoperative findings and symptoms) to make recommendations. If effective, selective resurfacing could result in optimal individualized patient care. This protocol describes a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the clinical and cost-effectiveness of primary TKR with always patellar resurfacing compared to selective patellar resurfacing.

Methods

The PAtellar Resurfacing Trial (PART) is a patient- and assessor-blinded multicentre, pragmatic parallel two-arm randomized superiority trial of adults undergoing elective primary TKR for primary osteoarthritis at NHS hospitals in England, with an embedded internal pilot phase (ISRCTN 33276681). Participants will be randomly allocated intraoperatively on a 1:1 basis (stratified by centre and implant type (cruciate-retaining vs cruciate-sacrificing)) to always resurface or selectively resurface the patella, once the surgeon has confirmed sufficient patellar thickness for resurfacing and that constrained implants are not required. The primary analysis will compare the Oxford Knee Score (OKS) one year after surgery. Secondary outcomes include patient-reported outcome measures at three months, six months, and one year (Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, OKS, EuroQol five-dimension five-level questionnaire, patient satisfaction, postoperative complications, need for further surgery, resource use, and costs). Cost-effectiveness will be measured for the lifetime of the patient. Overall, 530 patients will be recruited to obtain 90% power to detect a four-point difference in OKS between the groups one year after surgery, assuming up to 40% resurfacing in the selective group.

Conclusion

The trial findings will provide evidence about the clinical and cost-effectiveness of always patellar resurfacing compared to selective patellar resurfacing. This will inform future NICE guidelines on primary TKR and the role of selective patellar resurfacing.

Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(6):464–478.
Retrospective Analysis of Outcomes in the 2023 Busan Korean Medicine infertility Treatment Support Project
Authors: Choi Su-Ji , Won Jiyoon , Lee Dong-Hee , Yoon Hyun-Min
Published: June 2024

Objectives: This study aimed to analyze the results and review the outcomes and satisfaction levels of the 2023 Busan Korean medicine infertility treatment support project.Methods: A total of 137 female and 26 male participated in the Korean medicine infertility treatment support project, which encompassed herbal medicine and pharmacopuncture treatment over 4-month period. Data pertaining to patients' general, demographic, and fertility-related characteristics were collected before treatment initiation. During treatment, information regarding the treatments administered by Korean medical doctors was recorded, along with post-treatment outcomes and satisfaction levels.Results: Out of 163 initially enrolled participants, data from 4 female participants were missing, data from 159 participants were analyzed. A total of 113 female and 22 male participants completed the treatment program (Completion rate 84.9%). Of these, 23 female participants achieved pregnancy (Pregnancy rate 20.4%). Participants reported a high level of satisfaction with the treatment support project, with an average satisfaction score of 9.4 out of 10.Conclusions: The study analyzed the clinical findings of the 2023 Busan Korean medicine infertility treatment support project. These findings provide a basis for developing Korean medicine infertility support projects and related research.
Introduction: Youth and On-Road – Making Gender and Race Matter
Authors: Levell Jade , Young Tara , Earle Rod
Published: June 2024

The opening chapter sets out the main objectives of the book and its subject matter. This will include a preliminary discussion of the animating concept of on-road and the origins of the editors’ interests in this field of study. The chapter will outline the importance of intersectional approaches that build on Black feminism’s insistence on focusing on the co-constitutive features of race, gender and class. The chapter will include brief discussion of critical race theory, gender theory and the class stratification in racialised capitalism. These will be linked to the empirical work around youth and young people’s lives in the UK, with an argument for raising the profile of more explicitly gendered perspectives in research on young men and young women’s lives. The chapter outlines the structure of the book and its constitutive chapters.
(The) Trouble with Friends: Narrative Stories of Friendship and Violence On-Road
Authors: Young Tara
Published: June 2024

This chapter focuses on friendship ‘in the round’ and how it emerges within the context of the ‘street’. Despite concerns about their troublesome consequences, little is known about the qualities or characteristics these friendships hold for young people ‘on-road’. Traditional scholarship on delinquent behaviours agrees that a sizeable proportion of delinquency happens between and by young people in groups. This chapter explores and explains the nuance of relationships ‘on-road’ and moves the dialogue about young people’s deviance and offending away from the reductionist, stigmatising and racialised rhetoric of ‘gang talk’ and towards a more sensitive understanding of the sociocultural conditions that preclude or encourage the formation of ‘good’ and/or troublesome friendships.
The Attitudes of People with Different Gender Identities and Different Perceptions of Gender Roles towards Nonhuman Animals and Their Welfare
Authors: Hope-Forest Aphra , Gladkova Ekaterina , Wyatt Tanya
Published: June 2024

Even in a country like the UK, which appears to be a nonhuman-animal-loving nation, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals receives over one million calls a year reporting possible nonhuman animal abuse or neglect. In order to decrease nonhuman animal suffering, there needs to be better understanding of perceptions towards nonhuman animals and their welfare. In this regard, this chapter moves beyond binary gender investigations to an inclusive exploration, via a survey, of attitudes of both people with the range of gender identities and people with different perceptions of gender roles towards nonhuman animals, with illustrative focus on status dogs. The findings confirm those from previous research but reveal some interesting nuances around non-cisgender identities. Such information may contribute to better understanding of gender identity and gender roles related attitudes towards nonhuman animal welfare and thus identify the gaps in public education about nonhuman animal abuse and ultimately such information will aid the abolition of animal oppression.
The UN Global Compact as Inter-Organizational Relations
Authors: Hofferberth Matthias
Published: June 2024

More than 20 years into its existence, the jury is still out on the UN Global Compact. For advocates, the Compact is promoted as the prime example of global governance and engaged multi-stakeholderism. For critics, it remains deeply flawed and limited, as compliance with its principles remains voluntary and the overall network rather loose. This chapter argues that such readings do not take the relational character of the Compact fully into consideration. To better understand the Compact, I expand the notion of inter-organizational relations and propose to frame the Compact as such. Shedding light onto its origin and corporate understandings, the chapter considers broader world-order implications of bringing together enterprises, NGOs, labour organizations, cities and other public-sector organizations. Understanding the Compact as inter-organizational relations, I conclude that its most important contribution is the establishment and sustenance of global governors in light of organizations’ inability to govern alone.
World Sports and Russia’s War Against Ukraine
Authors: Franke Ulrich , Koch Martin
Published: June 2024

The chapter addresses the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) as representatives of world sports. The first of two steps offers a reconstruction of their environmental embeddedness. By studying the 2021 media coverage in the daily newspaper Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, it shows that both organizations maintain manifold external relations and respond to many external events. In the second step, their immediate responses to Russia’s escalation of its war against Ukraine are examined with regard to world-ordering beliefs they contain. Sequential analyses of two press releases issued on 24 February 2022 reveal that the IOC and FIFA condemn the Russian invasion rather idiosyncratically. Primarily interested in ensuring that the sports events they organize can take place without interference, the IOC promotes the Olympic Games as an example of peaceful and fair competition, while FIFA sticks to routines of pacifist rhetoric.
Introduction
Authors: Zupančič Rok , Kočan Faris , Andresen Kenneth , Bojarska Katarzyna , Dacosta Ricardo , Farrell Seamus , Fiedler Anke , Hoxha Abit , Ioannidis Nikandros , Kirk Niamh , Martín Irene , Milioni Dimitra L. , Panos Dionysis , Paradés Marta , Rawski Tomasz , Triga Vasiliki , Vučko Tjaša
Published: June 2024

This chapter presents the RePAST European project that served as a basis for information gathering and research used in this monograph. It explains the rationale behind the book and presents a theoretical and conceptual approach to the study of collective memory, conflict, troubled pasts and trauma in European societies. This chapter also describes the multidisciplinary approach to the study of memory and present the four topical foci in the monograph, namely official and oral history, journalistic and citizen-led media, political discourses and policies, and arts and culture. In the end it explains different criteria for the selection of case studies and gives a brief description of troubled pasts in country cases that are further studied in each chapter.
Dual-channel aperture-splitting snapshot spectral imaging detection system
Authors: Xue Qingsheng , Li Hui , Lu Fengqin , Cao Diansheng , Su Kun , Li Kunlong
Published: June 2024

The contemporary spectral imaging detection systems commonly employed, such as
pushbroom and stare systems, often necessitate motion-based imaging
mechanisms such as scanning motors. This reliance on motion renders
the imaging process vulnerable to platform vibrations, resulting in
intricate post-image correction procedures and precluding dynamic
target detection. Consequently, the advent of snapshot spectral
imaging detection systems has ensued. Currently, there are significant
challenges in the miniaturization design and rapid data acquisition
aspects of snapshot spectral imaging systems. In this study, linear
variable filters were employed as spectral components, and, through
optical system simulation and design, the design of the nonspherical
monolithic lens system and telescope system in the dual-channel
aperture-splitting snapshot spectral imaging detection system were
separately completed. The spectral range covered 400–1000 nm,
with a spectral resolution of 27.3 nm, and each channel had a
spatial sampling of 409×409 pixels. Additionally, based on the
optical system design results, the system structure design and
assembly were completed. Performance testing and preliminary spectral
image fusion research were conducted on the assembled prototype. The
instrument demonstrated excellent spectral imaging performance,
thereby enhancing the efficiency of spectral imaging detection in
snapshot spectral imaging.
Design method for a telecentric multiscale imaging system to avoid mechanical interference
Authors: Chen Peirong , Li Honghan , Li Tianren , Zhang Yu , Qu Yufu , Wei Zhenzhong
Published: June 2024

Multiscale imaging systems are widely employed for high-resolution imaging purposes. However, research in this area often lacks comprehensive theoretical analysis of these systems and discussions regarding potential mechanical interference among adjacent optical paths, leading to directional inadequacies and complexities in optical design. A novel method for designing multiscale imaging systems, to our knowledge, is proposed to address this gap. This method effectively guides optical design processes and mitigates mechanical interference. First, a theoretical analysis of the field of view distribution in multiscale imaging systems is conducted alongside the proposition of a method for calculating the field of view size for individual imaging systems. Second, telecentric optical paths are introduced, establishing an optical model and deriving a calculation formula for the system’s critical aperture, thereby identifying conditions to prevent mechanical interference. Third, a telecentric multiscale imaging system with satisfactory imaging performance is designed, featuring a focal length of
−200mm
and a telecentricity of less than 0.1 mrad. The system achieves diffraction-limited performance in the diffuse spot’s radius and modulation transfer function (MTF) curve without encountering mechanical interference. This design methodology presents a novel approach for subsequent multiscale imaging system designs, offering theoretical insights and practical implications.
Beam shape coefficients of the hollow vortex Gaussian beam and near-field scattering
Authors: Zhong Shiliang , Lin Jianxin , Shen Jianqi
Published: June 2024

The beam shape coefficients (BSCs) of the electromagnetic field of hollow vortex Gaussian beams (HVGBs) are formulated, based on the spherical wave expansion of the scalar function. The cylindrical wave spectrum decomposition is employed to expand the scalar function in the spherical coordinates. Numerical results on the beam field reproduced from the BSCs confirm that the BSC evaluation is efficient and reliable. The scattering in the near-field zone is calculated and discussed, revealing the dependence of the straight and curved photonic jets on the topological charge of the HVGB. The paper may be useful for studying the interaction between the HVGB and a spherical particle.
The spirit of professional service – a tribute to Andrew Weiner
Authors: Leger James R.
Published: June 2024

James Leger pays tribute to former Optics Express Editor-in-Chief, Andrew Weiner.
Conserved signalling functions for Mps1, Mad1 and Mad2 in the Cryptococcus neoformans spindle checkpoint
Authors: Aktar Koly , Davies Thomas , Leontiou Ioanna , Clark Ivan , Spanos Christos , Wallace Edward , Tuck Laura , Jeyaprakash A. Arockia , Hardwick Kevin G.
Published: June 2024

Cryptococcus neoformans is an opportunistic, human fungal pathogen which undergoes fascinating switches in cell cycle control and ploidy when it encounters stressful environments such as the human lung. Here we carry out a mechanistic analysis of the spindle checkpoint which regulates the metaphase to anaphase transition, focusing on Mps1 kinase and the downstream checkpoint components Mad1 and Mad2. We demonstrate that Cryptococcus mad1Δ or mad2Δ strains are unable to respond to microtubule perturbations, continuing to re-bud and divide, and die as a consequence. Fluorescent tagging of Chromosome 3, using a lacO array and mNeonGreen-lacI fusion protein, demonstrates that mad mutants are unable to maintain sister-chromatid cohesion in the absence of microtubule polymers. Thus, the classic checkpoint functions of the SAC are conserved in Cryptococcus. In interphase, GFP-Mad1 is enriched at the nuclear periphery, and it is recruited to unattached kinetochores in mitosis. Purification of GFP-Mad1 followed by mass spectrometric analysis of associated proteins show that it forms a complex with Mad2 and that it interacts with other checkpoint signalling components (Bub1) and effectors (Cdc20 and APC/C sub-units) in mitosis. We also demonstrate that overexpression of Mps1 kinase is sufficient to arrest Cryptococcus cells in mitosis, and show that this arrest is dependent on both Mad1 and Mad2. We find that a C-terminal fragment of Mad1 is an effective in vitro substrate for Mps1 kinase and map several Mad1 phosphorylation sites. Some sites are highly conserved within the C-terminal Mad1 structure and we demonstrate that mutation of threonine 667 (T667A) leads to loss of checkpoint signalling and abrogation of the GAL-MPS1 arrest. Thus Mps1-dependent phosphorylation of C-terminal Mad1 residues is a critical step in Cryptococcus spindle checkpoint signalling. We conclude that CnMps1 protein kinase, Mad1 and Mad2 proteins have all conserved their important, spindle checkpoint signalling roles helping ensure high fidelity chromosome segregation.
The macroeconomic impact of a dengue outbreak: Case studies from Thailand and Brazil
Authors: Marczell Kinga , García Elvis , Roiz Julie , Sachdev Rameet , Towle Philip , Shen Jing , Sruamsiri Rosarin , da Silva Bruna Mendes , Hanley Riona
Published: June 2024

Background

Dengue is spreading in (sub)tropical areas, and half of the global population is at risk. The macroeconomic impact of dengue extends beyond healthcare costs. This study evaluated the impact of dengue on gross domestic product (GDP) based on approaches tailored to two dengue-endemic countries, Thailand and Brazil, from the tourism and workforce perspectives, respectively.

Findings

Because the tourism industry is a critical economic sector for Thailand, lost tourism revenues were estimated to analyze the impact of a dengue outbreak. An input-output model estimated that the direct effects (on international tourism) and indirect effects (on suppliers) of dengue on tourism reduced overall GDP by 1.43 billion US dollars (USD) (0.26%) in the outbreak year 2019. The induced effect (reduced employee income/spending) reduced Thailand’s GDP by 375 million USD (0.07%). Overall, lost tourism revenues reduced Thailand’s GDP by an estimated 1.81 billion USD (0.33%) in 2019 (3% of annual tourism revenue). An inoperability input-output model was used to analyze the effect of workforce absenteeism on GDP due to a dengue outbreak in Brazil. This model calculates the number of lost workdays associated with ambulatory and hospitalized dengue. Input was collected from state-level epidemiological and economic data for 2019. An estimated 22.4 million workdays were lost in the employed population; 39% associated with the informal sector. Lost workdays due to dengue reduced Brazil’s GDP by 876 million USD (0.05%).

Conclusions

The economic costs of dengue outbreaks far surpass the direct medical costs. Dengue reduces overall GDP and inflicts national economic losses. With a high proportion of the population lacking formal employment in both countries and low income being a barrier to seeking care, dengue also poses an equity challenge. A combination of public health measures, like vector control and vaccination, against dengue is recommended to mitigate the broader economic impact of dengue.
Age-dependent regulation of ELP1 exon 20 splicing in Familial Dysautonomia by RNA Polymerase II kinetics and chromatin structure
Authors: Riccardi Federico , Romano Giulia , Licastro Danilo , Pagani Franco
Published: June 2024

Familial Dysautonomia (FD) is a rare disease caused by ELP1 exon 20 skipping. Here we clarify the role of RNA Polymerase II (RNAPII) and chromatin on this splicing event. A slow RNAPII mutant and chromatin-modifying chemicals that reduce the rate of RNAPII elongation induce exon skipping whereas chemicals that create a more relaxed chromatin exon inclusion. In the brain of a mouse transgenic for the human FD-ELP1 we observed on this gene an age-dependent decrease in the RNAPII density profile that was most pronounced on the alternative exon, a robust increase in the repressive marks H3K27me3 and H3K9me3 and a decrease of H3K27Ac, together with a progressive reduction in ELP1 exon 20 inclusion level. In HEK 293T cells, selective drug-induced demethylation of H3K27 increased RNAPII elongation on ELP1 and SMN2, promoted the inclusion of the corresponding alternative exons, and, by RNA-sequencing analysis, induced changes in several alternative splicing events. These data suggest a co-transcriptional model of splicing regulation in which age-dependent changes in H3K27me3/Ac modify the rate of RNAPII elongation and affect processing of ELP1 alternative exon 20.