bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnetic Fe3O4/Fe‐Mn binary oxide/bentonite nanocomposite ‐ a novel adsorbent for removal of reactive red 195 dye from water
Authors: Duong Nguyen Binh , Trang Quan Thi Thu , Lam Pham Van , Bich Phan Thi Ngoc
Published: March 2024

In this study, a nanocomposite, Fe3O4/Fe‐Mn binary oxide/bentonite (FFMB), was synthesized, characterized and evaluated its adsorption behavior of azo Reactive Red 195 dye (RR‐195) in aqueous solution. The results of characterization (X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, field emission scanning and transmission electron microscopies, vibration‐sample magnetometer, etc.) demonstrate that FFMB consists of Fe3O4 core and Fe2O3‐MnO2 binary oxide shell, which are distributed relatively uniformly on the exfoliated bentonite support with BET surface area of about 188 m2 g−1. It exhibits superparamagnetic properties with saturation magnetization of 39.6 emu g−1. The results of batch adsorption experiments show that the material has high ability of RR‐195 adsorption in terms of both adsorption rate and capacity. The adsorption efficiency was highest at pH 2–3. The adsorption process followed the pseudo‐second‐order kinetics and Langmuir isotherm models with a rather high maximum adsorption capacity of 163.4 mg g−1. Besides, Weber–Morris kinetic and Temkin isotherm models also provide useful insight into the adsorption mechanism. The material shows a good reusability. After 5 adsorption–desorption cycles the adsorption efficiency reached about 75% of the first cycle and the saturation magnetization decreased insignificantly. These results reveal that FFMB can become an alternative adsorbent for azo dye removal from wastewaters.
Electrospun multi‐chamber core–shell nanofibers and their controlled release behaviors: A review
Authors: Liu Yubo , Chen Xiaohong , Lin Xiangde , Yan Jiayong , Yu Deng‐Guang , Liu Ping , Yang Hui
Published: March 2024

Core–shell structure is a concentric circle structure found in nature. The rapid development of electrospinning technology provides more approaches for the production of core–shell nanofibers. The nanoscale effects and expansive specific surface area of core–shell nanofibers can facilitate the dissolution of drugs. By employing ingenious structural designs and judicious polymer selection, specialized nanofiber drug delivery systems can be prepared to achieve controlled drug release. The synergistic combination of core–shell structure and materials exhibits a strong strategy for enhancing the drug utilization efficiency and customizing the release profile of drugs. Consequently, multi‐chamber core–shell nanofibers hold great promise for highly efficient disease treatment. However, little attention concentration is focused on the effect of multi‐chamber core–shell nanofibers on controlled release of drugs. In this review, we introduced different fabrication techniques for multi‐chamber core–shell nanostructures, including advanced electrospinning technologies and surface functionalization. Subsequently, we reviewed the different controlled drug release behaviors of multi‐chamber core–shell nanofibers and their potential needs for disease treatment. The comprehensive elucidation of controlled release behaviors based on electrospun multi‐chamber core–shell nanostructures could inspire the exploration of novel controlled delivery systems. Furthermore, once these fibers with customizable drug release profiles move toward industrial mass production, they will potentially promote the development of pharmacy and the treatment of various diseases.

This article is categorized under:

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies
Der Gegenstand der Untersuchung als Thema der sozialen Erkenntnistheorie
Authors: Hauswald Rico
Published: March 2024

Ich habe diese Untersuchung bereits als der sozialen Erkenntnistheorie zugehörig charakterisiert. In diesem Kapitel möchte ich diese Zuordnung nun noch etwas weiter präzisieren. Alvin Goldman (2011) hat in einer einfluss- und aufschlussreichen Darstellung drei Strömungen oder Typen der sozialen Erkenntnistheorie bzw. Sozialepistemologie unterschieden. Eine erste Strömung befasst sich mit dem Verhalten individueller doxastischer Akteure, die in ihrem epistemischen Verhalten auf soziale Evidenzen zurückgreifen („individual doxastic agents (IDAS) with social evidence“).
Epistemische Arbeitsteilung
Authors: Hauswald Rico
Published: March 2024

Sich auf andere Akteure epistemisch zu stützen, gehört zu unseren elementaren epistemischen Verhaltensweisen. Wer sich nur auf seine eigenen Sinne und sein eigenes Schlussfolgerungsvermögen stützen müsste, wäre zu einem wesentlich beschränkteren epistemischen Leben verdammt (wobei fraglich ist, ob der komplette Verzicht auf das Sich-Stützen auf andere eine auch nur mögliche Option wäre – immerhin dürfte das Kleinkind unweigerlich darauf angewiesen sein, verschiedenste Informationen von anderen Personen einfach ungeprüft zu übernehmen). Niemand hat auch nur ansatzweise das insgesamt verfügbare Wissen zur Verfügung, und in sehr vielen Fällen haben wir nur die Möglichkeit, andere zu fragen oder anderweitig auf von anderen bereitgestellte Informationen zurückzugreifen.
Epistemische Autorität im Kontext gegenwärtiger sozialepistemologischer Debatten
Authors: Hauswald Rico
Published: March 2024

Trotz der großen Bedeutung sozialer Erkenntnisquellen sowohl für unsere öffentliche als auch unsere private epistemische Praxis (wahrscheinlich sind ein großer Teil der Erkenntnisse, die wir über die Welt besitzen, Erkenntnisse „aus zweiter Hand“) hat die Erkenntnistheorie – mit Ausnahme einiger klassischer Autoren wie Locke, Hume oder Reid – dieses Thema lange Zeit eher stiefmütterlich behandelt. Erst in den letzten Jahrzehnten hat sich die soziale Erkenntnistheorie als eigenständige Subdisziplin entwickelt und versucht, dieses Ungleichgewicht zu korrigieren. Die Debatte über epistemische Autorität lässt sich als ein spezieller Strang innerhalb der sozialen Erkenntnistheorie betrachten, der insbesondere zu Goldmans erster Strömung gezählt werden kann. Maßgebliche Impulse hat diese Debatte durch das Buch Epistemic Authority: A Theory of Trust, Authority, and Autonomy in Belief von Linda Zagzebski (2012) erhalten, an das sich eine intensive Diskussion angeschlossen hat.
Das Definitionsproblem: Was ist (eine) epistemische Autorität?
Authors: Hauswald Rico
Published: March 2024

Ich beginne meine Diskussion der Kernprobleme, die eine Theorie epistemischer Autorität zu bewältigen hat, mit der Frage, welchen begrifflichen Inhalt der Ausdruck „epistemische Autorität“ eigentlich genau hat und wie er von anderen Ausdrücken wie „Experte“ oder „Expertise“ abzugrenzen ist. Zunächst müssen jedoch einige methodologische Präliminarien geklärt werden.
Das Identifikationsproblem: Wie erkennt man epistemische Autoritäten und ihre Überzeugungen?
Authors: Hauswald Rico
Published: March 2024

Sich auf eine epistemische Autorität zu stützen, heißt, deren Überzeugungen (oder sonstige sie betreffende geeignete Tatsachen) als Wahrheitsindikatoren zu verwenden. Dazu muss zunächst erst einmal eine epistemische Autorität als solche erkannt werden. Man will sich in seiner Überzeugungsbildung ja nicht auf beliebige Akteure stützen, auch nicht auf solche, die lediglich vortäuschen, epistemische Autoritäten zu sein, sondern vielmehr auf solche, die es tatsächlich sind.
Empirical Definition of a Scale-up
Authors: Coad Alex , Bornhäll Anders , Daunfeldt Sven-Olov , McKelvie Alexander
Published: March 2024

This book distinguishes between a theoretical definition and an empirical definition. The theoretical definition seeks to clarify the concept of a scale-up in the minds of readers, using familiar theoretical concepts (such as marginal cost) that may be prohibitively difficult to measure in standard datasets, because the theoretical ideas do not map neatly into empirical variables. An empirical definition is stated in terms of empirically relevant variables and concepts such as growth rates, growth indicators, and other variables that are found in available datasets. This chapter develops the empirical definition. It starts by stating four desirable properties of an empirical definition, and proceeds in 2 steps: Step 1 involves taking the subset of HGFs; and Step 2 involves selecting scale-ups from among non-scale-up HGFs on the basis of seven proposed conditions.
Concluding Remarks
Authors: Coad Alex , Bornhäll Anders , Daunfeldt Sven-Olov , McKelvie Alexander
Published: March 2024

This chapter closes the book with a brief summary of the book’s purpose, and a brief statement of the theoretical and empirical definitions of scale-ups. While we argue that our book is timely, we also acknowledge the limitations of our book, chief among which is the data limitation of missing values affecting our empirical analysis.
Use of human predictive patch test (HPPT) data for the classification of skin sensitization hazard and potency
Authors: Herzler Matthias , Abedini Jaleh , Allen David G. , Germolec Dori , Gordon John , Ko Hon-Sum , Matheson Joanna , Reinke Emily , Strickland Judy , Thierse Hermann-Josef , To Kim , Truax James , Vanselow Jens T. , Kleinstreuer Nicole
Published: March 2024

Since the 1940s, patch tests in healthy volunteers (Human Predictive Patch Tests, HPPTs) have been used to identify chemicals that cause skin sensitization in humans. Recently, we reported the results of a major curation effort to support the development of OECD Guideline 497 on Defined Approaches (DAs) for skin sensitization (OECD in Guideline No. 497: Defined Approaches on Skin Sensitisation, 2021a. https://doi.org/10.1787/b92879a4-en). In the course of this work, we compiled and published a database of 2277 HPPT results for 1366 unique test substances (Strickland et al. in Arch Toxicol 97:2825–2837, 2023. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00204-023-03530-3). Here we report a detailed analysis of the value of HPPT data for classification of chemicals as skin sensitizers under the United Nations’ Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS). As a result, we propose the dose per skin area (DSA) used for classification by the GHS to be replaced by or complemented with a dose descriptor that may better reflect sensitization incidence [e.g., the DSA causing induction of sensitization in one individual (DSA1+) or the DSA leading to an incidence of induction in 5% of the tested individuals (DSA05)]. We also propose standardized concepts and workflows for assessing individual HPPT results, for integrating multiple HPPT results and for using them in concert with Local Lymph Node Assay (LLNA) data in a weight of evidence (WoE) assessment. Overall, our findings show that HPPT results are often not sufficient for deriving unambiguous classifications on their own. However, where they are, the resulting classifications are reliable and reproducible and can be integrated well with those from other skin sensitization data, such as the LLNA.
Matrix Kloosterman sums modulo prime powers
Authors: Erdélyi M. , Tóth Á. , Zábrádi G.
Published: March 2024

We give optimal bounds for matrix Kloosterman sums modulo prime powers extending earlier work of the first two authors on the case of prime moduli. These exponential sums arise in the theory of the horocyclic flow on $$GL_n$$

G

L
n

.
Review on deep-fat fried foods: physical and chemical attributes, and consequences of high consumption
Authors: Dangal Anish , Tahergorabi Reza , Acharya Dev Raj , Timsina Prekshya , Rai Kishor , Dahal Sangam , Acharya Priti , Giuffrè Angelo Maria
Published: March 2024

Deep-fat frying is a widely discussed topic globally in the field of food processing due to the growing consumer demand. These foods are known for their appealing outer appearance, crispy texture, and rich taste. The increased consumption of deep-fat fried foods has raised concerns regarding potential health issues, as they are often high in calories and may contain unfavorable compounds formed during the process of deep frying. This review aims to provide an overview of previous studies examining the physical, chemical, and nutritional changes that occur in fried foods, the mechanisms of fat uptake during frying, and the health implications associated with the consumption of these foods. This increasing rate in consumption has been linked to various adverse health conditions. There has been a significant research focus on reducing the fat content in deep fried foods, particularly investigating the process of fat uptake during deep-fat frying. It is crucial to increase consumer awareness regarding the potential problems arising from excessive intake of deep-fat fried foods. Furthermore, further studies are needed to meet the rising demand for deep-fat fried foods while minimizing the impact on health and preserving their desirable taste.

Graphical abstract
Risk Factors and Outcomes Associated with Gaps in Care in Children with Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Rosamilia Michael B. , Williams Jason , Bair Courtney A. , Mulder Hillary , Chiswell Karen E. , D’Ottavio Alfred A. , Hartman Robert j. , Sang Charlie J. , Welke Karl F. , Walsh Michael J. , Hoffman Timothy M. , Landstrom Andrew P. , Li Jennifer S. , Sarno Lauren A.
Published: March 2024

Adults with congenital heart disease (CHD) benefit from cardiology follow-up at recommended intervals of ≤ 2 years. However, benefit for children is less clear given limited studies and unclear current guidelines. We hypothesize there are identifiable risks for gaps in cardiology follow-up in children with CHD and that gaps in follow-up are associated with differences in healthcare utilization. Our cohort included children < 10 years old with CHD and a healthcare encounter from 2008 to 2013 at one of four North Carolina (NC) hospitals. We assessed associations between cardiology follow-up and demographics, lesion severity, healthcare access, and educational isolation (EI). We compared healthcare utilization based on follow-up. Overall, 60.4% of 6,969 children received cardiology follow-up within 2 years of initial encounter, including 53.1%, 58.1%, and 79.0% of those with valve, shunt, and severe lesions, respectively. Factors associated with gaps in care included increased drive time to a cardiology clinic (Hazard Ratio (HR) 0.92/15-min increase), EI (HR 0.94/0.2-unit increase), lesion severity (HR 0.48 for shunt/valve vs severe), and older age (HR 0.95/month if < 1 year old and 0.94/year if > 1 year old; p < 0.05). Children with a care gap subsequently had more emergency department (ED) visits (Rate Ratio (RR) 1.59) and fewer inpatient encounters and procedures (RR 0.51, 0.35; p < 0.05). We found novel factors associated with gaps in care for cardiology follow-up in children with CHD and altered health care utilization with a gap. Our findings demonstrate a need to mitigate healthcare barriers and generate clear cardiology follow-up guidelines for children with CHD.
Roles of pH and phosphate in rare earth element biosorption with living acidophilic microalgae
Authors: Kastenhofer Jens , Spadiut Oliver , Papangelakis Vladimiros G. , Allen D. Grant
Published: March 2024

The increasing demand for rare earth elements (REEs) has spurred interest in the development of recovery methods from aqueous waste streams. Acidophilic microalgae have gained attention for REE biosorption as they can withstand high concentrations of transition metals and do not require added organic carbon to grow, potentially allowing simultaneous sorption and self-replication of the sorbent. Here, we assessed the potential of Galdieria sulphuraria for REE biosorption under acidic, nutrient-replete conditions from solutions containing ≤ 15 ppm REEs. Sorption at pH 1.5–2.5 (the growth optimum of G. sulphuraria) was poor but improved up to 24-fold at pH 5.0 in phosphate-free conditions. Metabolic activity had a negative impact on REE sorption, additionally challenging the feasibility of REE biosorption under ideal growth conditions for acidophiles. We further examined the possibility of REE biosorption in the presence of phosphate for biomass growth at elevated pH (pH ≥ 2.5) by assessing aqueous La concentrations in various culture media. Three days after adding La into the media, dissolved La concentrations were up to three orders of magnitude higher than solubility predictions due to supersaturation, though LaPO4 precipitation occurred under all conditions when seed was added. We concluded that biosorption should occur separately from biomass growth to avoid REE phosphate precipitation. Furthermore, we demonstrated the importance of proper control experiments in biosorption studies to assess potential interactions between REEs and matrix ions such as phosphates.

Key points

• REE biosorption with G. sulphuraria increases significantly when raising pH to 5

• Phosphate for biosorbent growth has to be supplied separately from biosorption

• Biosorption studies have to assess potential matrix effects on REE behavior
Diagnostic performance of photon-counting detector CT for differentiation between adrenal adenomas and metastases
Authors: Bette Stefanie , Risch Franka , Canalini Luca , Becker Judith , Leithner Eva V. , Huber Adrian , Haerting Mark , Jehs Bertram , Wollny Claudia , Schwarz Florian , Tehlan Kartikay , Scheurig-Muenkler Christian , Wendler Thomas , Kroencke Thomas , Decker Josua A.
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Aim of this study was to assess the value of virtual non-contrast (VNC) reconstructions in differentiating between adrenal adenomas and metastases on a photon-counting detector CT (PCD-CT).

Material and methods

Patients with adrenal masses and contrast-enhanced CT scans in portal venous phase were included. Image reconstructions were performed, including conventional VNC (VNCConv) and PureCalcium VNC (VNCPC), as well as virtual monochromatic images (VMI, 40–90 keV) and iodine maps. We analyzed images using semi-automatic segmentation of adrenal lesions and extracted quantitative data. Logistic regression models, non-parametric tests, Bland–Altman plots, and a random forest classifier were used for statistical analyses.

Results

The final study cohort consisted of 90 patients (36 female, mean age 67.8 years [range 39–87]) with adrenal lesions (45 adenomas, 45 metastases). Compared to metastases, adrenal adenomas showed significantly lower CT-values in VNCConv and VNCPC (p = 0.007). Mean difference between VNC and true non-contrast (TNC) was 17.67 for VNCConv and 14.85 for VNCPC. Random forest classifier and logistic regression models both identified VNCConv and VNCPC as the best discriminators. When using 26 HU as the threshold in VNCConv reconstructions, adenomas could be discriminated from metastases with a sensitivity of 86.7% and a specificity of 75.6%.

Conclusion

VNC algorithms overestimate CT values compared to TNC in the assessment of adrenal lesions. However, they allow a reliable discrimination between adrenal adenomas and metastases and could be used in clinical routine in near future with an increased threshold (e.g., 26 HU). Further (multi-center) studies with larger patient cohorts and standardized protocols are required.

Clinical relevance statement

VNC reconstructions overestimate CT values compared to TNC. Using a different threshold (e.g., 26 HU compared to the established 10 HU), VNC has a high diagnostic accuracy for the discrimination between adrenal adenomas and metastases.

Key Points

• Virtual non-contrast reconstructions may be promising tools to differentiate adrenal lesions and might save further diagnostic tests.

• The conventional and a new calcium-preserving virtual non-contrast algorithm tend to systematically overestimate CT-values compared to true non-contrast images.

• Therefore, increasing the established threshold for true non-contrast images (e.g., 10HU) may help to differentiate between adrenal adenomas and metastases on contrast-enhanced CT.
The efficacy of artificial intelligence in urology: a detailed analysis of kidney stone-related queries
Authors: Cil Gökhan , Dogan Kazim
Published: March 2024

Purpose

The study aimed to assess the efficacy of OpenAI's advanced AI model, ChatGPT, in diagnosing urological conditions, focusing on kidney stones.

Materials and methods

A set of 90 structured questions, compliant with EAU Guidelines 2023, was curated by seasoned urologists for this investigation. We evaluated ChatGPT's performance based on the accuracy and completeness of its responses to two types of questions [binary (true/false) and descriptive (multiple-choice)], stratified into difficulty levels: easy, moderate, and complex. Furthermore, we analyzed the model's learning and adaptability capacity by reassessing the initially incorrect responses after a 2 week interval.

Results

The model demonstrated commendable accuracy, correctly answering 80% of binary questions (n:45) and 93.3% of descriptive questions (n:45). The model's performance showed no significant variation across different question difficulty levels, with p-values of 0.548 for accuracy and 0.417 for completeness, respectively. Upon reassessment of initially 12 incorrect responses (9 binary to 3 descriptive) after two weeks, ChatGPT's accuracy showed substantial improvement. The mean accuracy score significantly increased from 1.58 ± 0.51 to 2.83 ± 0.93 (p = 0.004), underlining the model's ability to learn and adapt over time.

Conclusion

These findings highlight the potential of ChatGPT in urological diagnostics, but also underscore areas requiring enhancement, especially in the completeness of responses to complex queries. The study endorses AI's incorporation into healthcare, while advocating for prudence and professional supervision in its application.
Cardiovascular disease risk assessment and multidisciplinary care in prostate cancer treatment with ADT: recommendations from the APMA PCCV expert network
Authors: Merseburger Axel S. , Bakshi Ganesh , Chen Dong-Yi , Chiong Edmund , Jabbour Michel , Joung Jae Young , Lai Allen Yu-Hung , Lawrentschuk Nathan , Le Tuan-Anh , Ng Chi Fai , Ng Choon Ta , Ong Teng Aik , Pang Jacob See-Tong , Rabah Danny M. , Ragavan Narasimhan , Sase Kazuhiro , Suzuki Hiroyoshi , Teo Michelle Mui Hian , Uemura Hiroji , Woo Henry H.
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is the mainstay approach for prostate cancer (PCa) management. However, the most commonly used ADT modality, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Methods

The PCa Cardiovascular (PCCV) Expert Network, consisting of multinational urologists, cardiologists and oncologists with expertise in managing PCa, convened to discuss challenges to routine cardiovascular risk assessment in PCa management, as well as how to mitigate such risks in the current treatment landscape.

Results

The experts identified several barriers, including lack of awareness, time constraints, challenges in implementing risk assessment tools and difficulties in establishing multidisciplinary teams that include cardiologists. The experts subsequently provided practical recommendations to improve cardio-oncology care for patients with PCa receiving ADT, such as simplifying cardiovascular risk assessment, individualising treatment based on CVD risk categories, establishing multidisciplinary teams and referral networks and fostering active patient engagement. A streamlined cardiovascular risk-stratification tool and a referral/management guide were developed for seamless integration into urologists’ practices and presented herein. The PCCV Expert Network agreed that currently available evidence indicates that GnRH antagonists are associated with a lower risk of CVD than that of GnRH agonists and that GnRH antagonists are preferred for patients with PCa and a high CVD risk.

Conclusion

In summary, this article provides insights and guidance to improve management for patients with PCa undergoing ADT.
Christian Klamler’s ”A distance measure for choice functions” [Social Choice and Welfare 30 (2008) 419–425]: a correction
Authors: Carpentiere Davide , Giarlotta Alfio , Watson Stephen
Published: March 2024

An extensive choice over X is a function assigning to any subset S of X a possibly empty subset of S. Klamler (Soc Choice Welf 30:419–425, 2008) shows that the operation of symmetric difference induces a metric on the family of extensive choices over X, and this metric is characterized by five axioms –. We provide counterexamples to Klamler’s result, suggest a slight modification of axioms and to obtain a correct characterization, and finally observe that axiom is redundant.
Characterization of anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity by diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Lohr David , Thiele Arne , Stahnke Max , Braun Vera M. , Klopfleisch Robert , Klein Oliver , Dresen Sandra , Landmesser Ulf , Foryst-Ludwig Anna , Kintscher Ulrich , Schreiber Laura M. , Beyhoff Niklas
Published: March 2024

Anthracyclines are highly potent anti-cancer drugs, but their clinical use is limited by severe cardiotoxic side effects. The impact of anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity (AIC) on left ventricular (LV) microarchitecture and diffusion properties remains unknown. This study sought to characterize AIC by cardiovascular magnetic resonance diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). Mice were treated with Doxorubicin (DOX; n = 16) for induction of AIC or saline as corresponding control (n = 15). Cardiac function was assessed via echocardiography at the end of the study period. Whole hearts (n = 8 per group) were scanned ex vivo by high-resolution DTI at 7 T. Results were correlated with histopathology and mass spectrometry imaging. Mice with AIC demonstrated systolic dysfunction (LVEF 52 ± 3% vs. 43 ± 6%, P < 0.001), impaired global longitudinal strain (−19.6 ± 2.0% vs. −16.6 ± 3.0%, P < 0.01), and cardiac atrophy (LV mass index [mg/mm], 4.3 ± 0.1 vs. 3.6 ± 0.2, P < 0.01). Regional sheetlet angles were significantly lower in AIC, whereas helix angle and relative helicity remained unchanged. In AIC, fractional anisotropy was increased (0.12 ± 0.01 vs. 0.14 ± 0.02, P < 0.05). DOX-treated mice displayed higher planar and less spherical anisotropy (C
Planar 0.07 ± 0.01 vs. 0.09 ± 0.01, P < 0.01; C
Spherical 0.89 ± 0.01 vs. 0.87 ± 0.02, P < 0.05). C
Planar and C
Spherical yielded good discriminatory power to distinguish between mice with and without AIC (c-index 0.91 and 0.84, respectively, P for both < 0.05). AIC is associated with regional changes in sheetlet angle but no major abnormalities of global LV microarchitecture. The geometric shape of the diffusion tensor is altered in AIC. DTI may provide a new tool for myocardial characterization in patients with AIC, which warrants future clinical studies to evaluate its diagnostic utility.
Motion acquisition of gait characteristics one week after total hip arthroplasty: a factor analysis
Authors: Cattaneo Andrea , Ghidotti Anna , Catellani Francesco , Fiorentino Gennaro , Vitali Andrea , Regazzoni Daniele , Rizzi Caterina , Bombardieri Emilio
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Clinical gait analysis can be used to evaluate the recovery process of patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA). The postoperative walking patterns of these patients can be significantly influenced by the choice of surgical approach, as each procedure alters distinct anatomical structures. The aim of this study is twofold. The first objective is to develop a gait model to describe the change in ambulation one week after THA. The secondary goal is to describe the differences associated with the surgical approach.

Materials and methods

Thirty-six patients undergoing THA with lateral (n = 9), anterior (n = 15), and posterior (n = 12) approaches were included in the study. Walking before and 7 days after surgery was recorded using a markerless motion capture system. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), a data reduction technique, condensed 21 spatiotemporal gait parameters to a smaller set of dominant variables. The EFA-derived gait domains were utilized to study post-surgical gait variations and to compare the post-surgical gait among the three groups.

Results

Four distinct gait domains were identified. The most pronounced variation one week after surgery is in the Rhythm (gait cycle time: $$+32.9\mathrm{\%}$$

+
32.9
%

), followed by Postural control (step width: $$+27.0\mathrm{\%}$$

+
27.0
%

), Phases (stance time: $$+11.0\%$$

+
11.0
%

), and Pace (stride length: − $$9.3\%$$

9.3
%

). In postsurgical walking, Phases is statistically significantly different in patients operated with the posterior approach compared to lateral (p-value = 0.017) and anterior (p-value = 0.002) approaches. Furthermore, stance time in the posterior approach group is significantly lower than in healthy individuals (p-value < 0.001).

Conclusions

This study identified a four-component gait model specific to THA patients. The results showed that patients after THA have longer stride time but shorter stride length, wider base of support, and longer stance time, although the posterior group had a statistically significant shorter stance time than the others. The findings of this research have the potential to simplify the reporting of gait outcomes, reduce redundancy, and inform targeted interventions in regards to specific gait domains.
Multiple system atrophy: an update and emerging directions of biomarkers and clinical trials
Authors: Liu Min , Wang Zhiyao , Shang Huifang
Published: March 2024

Multiple system atrophy is a rare, debilitating, adult-onset neurodegenerative disorder that manifests clinically as a diverse combination of parkinsonism, cerebellar ataxia, and autonomic dysfunction. It is pathologically characterized by oligodendroglial cytoplasmic inclusions containing abnormally aggregated α-synuclein. According to the updated Movement Disorder Society diagnostic criteria for multiple system atrophy, the diagnosis of clinically established multiple system atrophy requires the manifestation of autonomic dysfunction in combination with poorly levo-dopa responsive parkinsonism and/or cerebellar syndrome. Although symptomatic management of multiple system atrophy can substantially improve quality of life, therapeutic benefits are often limited, ephemeral, and they fail to modify the disease progression and eradicate underlying causes. Consequently, effective breakthrough treatments that target the causes of disease are needed. Numerous preclinical and clinical studies are currently focusing on a set of hallmarks of neurodegenerative diseases to slow or halt the progression of multiple system atrophy: pathological protein aggregation, synaptic dysfunction, aberrant proteostasis, neuronal inflammation, and neuronal cell death. Meanwhile, specific biomarkers and measurements with higher specificity and sensitivity are being developed for the diagnosis of multiple system atrophy, particularly for early detection of the disease. More intriguingly, a growing number of new disease-modifying candidates, which can be used to design multi-targeted, personalized treatment in patients, are being investigated, notwithstanding the failure of most previous attempts.
The GIST of it all: management of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) from the first steps to tailored therapy. A bibliometric analysis
Authors: Musa Julian , Kochendoerfer Sarah M. , Willis Franziska , Sauerteig Christine , Harnoss Jonathan M. , Rompen Ingmar F. , Grünewald Thomas G. P. , Al-Saeedi Mohammed , Schneider Martin , Harnoss Julian-C.
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Improvement of patient care is associated with increasing publication numbers in biomedical research. However, such increasing numbers of publications make it challenging for physicians and scientists to screen and process the literature of their respective fields. In this study, we present a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the evolution of gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) research, analyzing the current state of the field and identifying key open questions going beyond the recent advantages for future studies to assess.

Methods

Using the Web of Science Core Collection, 5040 GIST-associated publications in the years 1984–2022 were identified and analyzed regarding key bibliometric variables using the Bibliometrix R package and VOSviewer software.

Results

GIST-associated publication numbers substantially increased over time, accentuated from year 2000 onwards, and being characterized by multinational collaborations. The main topic clusters comprise surgical management, tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) development/treatment, diagnostic workup, and molecular pathophysiology. Within all main topic clusters, a significant progress is reflected by the literature over the years. This progress ranges from conventional open surgical techniques over minimally invasive, including robotic and endoscopic, resection techniques to increasing identification of specific functional genetic aberrations sensitizing for newly developed TKIs being extensively investigated in clinical studies and implemented in GIST treatment guidelines. However, especially in locally advanced, recurrent, and metastatic disease stages, surgery-related questions and certain specific questions concerning (further-line) TKI treatment resistance were infrequently addressed.

Conclusion

Increasing GIST-related publication numbers reflect a continuous progress in the major topic clusters of the GIST research field. Especially in advanced disease stages, questions related to the interplay between surgical approaches and TKI treatment sensitivity should be addressed in future studies.
GATA6 inhibits the biological function of non-small cell lung cancer by modulating glucose metabolism
Authors: Ju Weiwei , Lin Lijuan , Zhang Qifang , Lv Xiumei , Teng Shaohui , Hong Yu , Shao Zhixiang , Na Hanyun , Yu Shengjin
Published: March 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the role of GATA6 in lung cancer, with a focus on its impact on metabolic processes.

Methods

We assessed GATA6 expression in lung cancer tissues and its association with patient prognosis. In vitro cell function experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of altered GATA6 levels on lung cancer cell proliferation and migration. Mechanistic insights were gained by examining GATA6's influence on glucose metabolism-related genes, particularly its effect on c-Myc mRNA expression.

Results

Our study revealed significant down-regulation of GATA6 in lung cancer tissues, and this down-regulation was strongly correlated with unfavorable patient prognosis. Elevating GATA6 levels effectively inhibited the proliferation and migration of lung cancer cells in our cell function experiments. Mechanistically, we found that GATA6 suppressed the expression of c-Myc mRNA, impacting genes related to glucose metabolism. As a result, glucose uptake and metabolism in lung cancer cells were disrupted, ultimately impeding their malignant behaviors.

Conclusion

Our study provides crucial insights into the metabolic regulation of GATA6 in lung cancer cells. These findings have the potential to offer a solid theoretical foundation for the development of novel clinical treatments for lung cancer.
Poor lumbar spine coordination in acute low back pain predicts persistent long-term pain and disability
Authors: Alshehri Mansour Abdullah , van den Hoorn Wolbert , Klyne David M. , van Dieën Jaap H. , Cholewicki Jacek , Hodges Paul W.
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Sitting balance on an unstable surface requires coordinated out-of-phase lumbar spine and provides sufficient challenge to expose quality of spine control. We investigated whether the quality of spine coordination to maintain balance in acute low back pain (LBP) predicts recovery at 6 months.

Methods

Participants in an acute LBP episode (n = 94) underwent assessment of sitting balance on an unstable surface. Seat, hip and spine (lower lumbar, lumbar, upper lumbar, thoracic) angular motion and force plate data were recorded. Coordination between the seat and hip/spine segments to maintain balance was quantified in the frequency domain to evaluate coordination (coherence) and relative timing (phase angle: in-phase [segments move together]; out-of-phase [segments move opposite]). Center of pressure (CoP) and upper thorax motion assessed overall balance performance. Hip and spine coordination with the seat were compared between those who did not recover (increased/unchanged pain/disability), partially recovered (reduced pain/disability) or recovered (no pain and disability) at 6 months.

Results

In both planes, coherence between the seat and lower lumbar spine was lower (and in-phase—unhelpful for balance) at baseline in those who did not recover than those who recovered. Coherence between the seat and hip was higher in partially recovered in both planes, suggesting compensation by the hip. LBP groups had equal overall balance performance (CoP, upper thorax motion), but non-recovery groups used a less optimal strategy that might have consequences for long-term spine health.

Conclusion

These longitudinal data revealed that individuals with compromised contribution of the lumbar spine to the balance during unstable sitting during acute LBP are less likely to recover.
Taking the knife to neurodegeneration: a review of surgical gene therapy delivery to the CNS
Authors: Perera Andrea , Brock Olivier , Ahmed Aminul , Shaw Chris , Ashkan Keyoumars
Published: March 2024

Gene supplementation and editing for neurodegenerative disorders has emerged in recent years as the understanding of the genetic mechanisms underlying several neurodegenerative disorders increases. The most common medium to deliver genetic material to cells is via viral vectors; and with respect to the central nervous system, adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors are a popular choice. The most successful example of AAV-based gene therapy for neurodegenerative disorders is Zolgensma© which is a transformative intravenous therapy given to babies with spinal muscular atrophy. However, the field has stalled in achieving safe drug delivery to the central nervous system in adults for which treatments for disorders such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis are desperately needed. Surgical gene therapy delivery has been proposed as a potential solution to this problem. While the field of the so-called regenerative neurosurgery has yielded pre-clinical optimism, several challenges have emerged. This review seeks to explore the field of regenerative neurosurgery with respect to AAV-based gene therapy for neurodegenerative diseases, its progress so far and the challenges that need to be overcome.
Statistical downscaling of GCMs wind speed data for trend analysis of future scenarios: a case study in the Lombardy region
Authors: Ferrarin Lucia , Stucchi Leonardo , Bocchiola Daniele
Published: March 2024

Near-surface wind speed is a key climatic variable, affecting many sectors, such as energy production, air pollution, and natural hazard. Lombardy region of Italy is among the European areas with lowest average wind speed, leading generally to low air quality and wind energy potential. However, it is also one of the most affected area by tornadoes in Italy. Here we investigate possible changes in wind circulation as due to prospective global warming. We analysed wind speed WS under future scenarios (SSP1-2.6 and SSP5-8.5) from six Global Climate Models (GCMs) until 2100, tuned against observed WS data. We employed a statistical downscaling method, namely Stochastic Time Random Cascade (STRC) to correct locally GCMs outputs. Three statistical tests, i.e. Linear Regression, Mann Kendall, Moving Window Average, were carried out to analyse future trends of: annual WS averages, 95th quantile (as an indicator of large WS), and the number of days of calm wind per year (NWC). The proposed STRC algorithm can successfully adjust the mean, standard deviation, and autocorrelation structure of the GCM outputs. No strong trends are found for the future. The chosen variables would all display non-stationarity, and the 95th percentile display a positive trend for most of the stations. Concerning NWC, notable discrepancies among GCMs are seen. The STRC algorithm can be used to successfully adjust GCMs outputs to reflect locally observed data and to then generate credible long-term scenarios for WSs as a tool for decision-making.
Boon and burden: economic performance and future perspectives of the Venice flood protection system
Authors: Giupponi Carlo , Bidoia Marco , Breil Margaretha , Di Corato Luca , Gain Animesh Kumar , Leoni Veronica , Minooei Fard Behnaz , Pesenti Raffaele , Umgiesser Georg
Published: March 2024

Sea-level rise (SLR) and flooding are among the climate change stressors challenging human society in the twenty-first century. Many coastal areas and cities are implementing innovative solutions to mitigate flood risks and enhance resilience. Venice has recently developed a system of storm surge mobile barriers, known as the MoSE (Modulo Sperimentale Elettromeccanico or Experimental Electromechanical Module). This study aims to investigate the economic viability of MoSE operations in light of the potential future evolution of SLR. To conduct a cost-benefit analysis, a system dynamics model is utilised to assess the impact of MoSE operations on economic and residential activities of Venice and its port. Simulations are conducted until the end of the century, considering two SLR scenarios. The results suggest that the economic benefits largely outweigh the combined costs of investment and foregone port revenues resulting from the MoSE closures. Nevertheless, the increasing number of closures due to SLR seriously challenges the viability of the infrastructure in the medium to long term. Even more importantly, very frequent closures will have serious impacts on the quality of the lagoon ecosystem. These findings suggest a revision and stronger integration of the city’s safeguarding strategies, including the increase of the MoSE closure level officially set at 110 cm, and other coordinated interventions, such as sewer system consolidation.
A semantic-based methodology for the management of document workflows in e-government: a case study for judicial processes
Authors: Di Martino Beniamino , Colucci Cante Luigi , Graziano Mariangela , D’Angelo Salvatore , Esposito Antonio , Lupi Pietro , Ammendolia Rosario
Published: March 2024

Trial excessive duration is a common problem in Juridical systems worldwide, even if some countries seem to be more affected by it than others. The European Council has provided metrics and statistics to identify this problem and has pointed out solutions, such as the simplification of norms and the digitization of Juridical procedures. The Italian Telematic Civil Process (TCP) is an example of this digitization effort that has surely positively influenced the duration of Trials, their traceability and general complexity. However, there are still many possible actions that can be taken to simplify the work of Judges and Chancellors, and to support their daily operations in dealing with several Trials at once, and with the consistent number of documents that are involved in them. This paper presents a toolchain and a related methodology for the management of documentation attached to Trials, based on semantic technologies and Natural Language Processing techniques, which will help Judges in faster assessing the situation of each Trial they follow, and will also provide the means to identify potential correlations among different Juridical procedures. The methodology is tested against a case study, i.e. the compensation requests related to road accidents, which has been provided and described by Domain Experts from the Italian Ministry of Justice.
The sound of silence: children’s own perspectives on their hearing and listening in classrooms with different acoustic conditions
Authors: Vettori Giulia , Di Leonardo Laura , Secchi Simone , Bigozzi Lucia
Published: March 2024

In this study, we investigated primary school children’s perspectives on their hearing and listening in classrooms with different acoustic quality levels. The sample included 213 children. The children completed a self-report questionnaire rating how well they could hear and listen in various situations in classrooms with two different acoustic conditions: Poor acoustic quality (long reverberation time [Long RT]) versus Adequate acoustic quality (short reverberation time [Short RT]) equipped with a sound-absorbing system. The results showed that auditory perception in the two conditions depends on the child’s age, with only fourth- and fifth-grade children reporting benefits from classroom acoustic correction. Our study provides preliminary results on children’s perspectives regarding their hearing and listening experiences during school learning, drawing out the implications for the design and implementation of school metacognitive interventions aimed at improving children’s and teachers’ awareness of motivational-affective, regulative, and environmental aspects favoring listening at school.
Accuracy Analysis of 3D Bone Fracture Models: Effects of Computed Tomography (CT) Imaging and Image Segmentation
Authors: Bittner-Frank Martin , Strassl Andreas , Unger Ewald , Hirtler Lena , Eckhart Barbara , Koenigshofer Markus , Stoegner Alexander , Nia Arastoo , Popp Domenik , Kainberger Franz , Windhager Reinhard , Moscato Francesco , Benca Emir
Published: March 2024

The introduction of three-dimensional (3D) printed anatomical models has garnered interest in pre-operative planning, especially in orthopedic and trauma surgery. Identifying potential error sources and quantifying their effect on the model dimensional accuracy are crucial for the applicability and reliability of such models. In this study, twenty radii were extracted from anatomic forearm specimens and subjected to osteotomy to simulate a defined fracture of the distal radius (Colles’ fracture). Various factors, including two different computed tomography (CT) technologies (energy-integrating detector (EID) and photon-counting detector (PCD)), four different CT scanners, two scan protocols (i.e., routine and high dosage), two different scan orientations, as well as two segmentation algorithms were considered to determine their effect on 3D model accuracy. Ground truth was established using 3D reconstructions of surface scans of the physical specimens. Results indicated that all investigated variables significantly impacted the 3D model accuracy (p < 0.001). However, the mean absolute deviation fell within the range of 0.03 ± 0.20 to 0.32 ± 0.23 mm, well below the 0.5 mm threshold necessary for pre-operative planning. Intra- and inter-operator variability demonstrated fair to excellent agreement for 3D model accuracy, with an intra-class correlation (ICC) of 0.43 to 0.92. This systematic investigation displayed dimensional deviations in the magnitude of sub-voxel imaging resolution for all variables. Major pitfalls included missed or overestimated bone regions during the segmentation process, necessitating additional manual editing of 3D models. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that 3D bone fracture models can be obtained with clinical routine scanners and scan protocols, utilizing a simple global segmentation threshold, thereby providing an accurate and reliable tool for pre-operative planning.
Food security and the value of game animals—a study of Sweden
Authors: Gren Ing-Marie , Andersson Hans , Jonasson Lars , Knutsson Rickard
Published: March 2024

The food security value of wild meat is calculated by combining proxy methods for quantifying game animal abundance with shadow pricing techniques for assessing the unit values of food security. This study calculated the food security values of moose, roe deer, wild boar, and fallow deer for Sweden overall and for individual counties. The results showed that meat from these animal populations accounts for approximately 9% of meat consumption in Sweden and for 1.2% of the minimum energy food consumption during periods of crisis for the whole of Sweden, while in some counties it can be as much as 8%. The calculated unit value, or shadow price, of the minimum energy requirement ranged between € 0.1 and € 4.2/mcal, depending on the magnitude of the crisis scenario. At most, the total food security value of actual animal population sizes amounted to 0.50 billion euros, but this was unevenly distributed, with high values in counties that have an abundance of moose and wild boar.