bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Autobiographical memory in dementia syndromes—An integrative review
Authors: Irish Muireann
Published: October 2022

Autobiographical memory represents a defining feature of human cognition, enabling us to vividly re‐experience salient events from the personal past. By mentally traversing different temporal contexts, humans can maintain an enduring sense of who we are as individuals, as well as envisaging our future goals and behaviors. The relative ease with which we engage in these endeavors, however, belies the remarkable complexity of the autobiographical memory system. Dementia syndromes offer compelling insights into the cognitive neuroarchitecture of autobiographical memory in the face of progressive neural insult to large‐scale brain networks. Importantly, the atrophy profiles of many neurodegenerative disorders follow coordinated and predictable trajectories, affecting key regions implicated in episodic and semantic memory. A wealth of evidence suggests that autobiographical memory disruption is a transdiagnostic feature of dementia, yet this impairment takes many forms and arises due to differential neurocognitive disturbances. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the literature on autobiographical memory in typical and atypical presentations of Alzheimer's disease, as well as younger‐onset dementia syndromes such as frontotemporal dementia and primary progressive aphasia. I will demonstrate how the systematic study of autobiographical memory across dementia syndromes can constrain and inform our fundamental understanding of memory function and, in turn, stimulate new directions in how we conceptualize and assess these cognitive capacities. Consideration will further be given to clinical implications of autobiographical memory dysfunction with a view to developing targeted interventions to better support the person living with dementia.

This article is categorized under:

Psychology > Memory

Neuroscience > Clinical Neuroscience

Psychology > Brain Function and Dysfunction
Static and time‐resolved resonant inelastic X‐ray scattering: Recent results and future prospects
Authors: Monney Claude , Patthey Luc , Razzoli Elia , Schmitt Thorsten
Published: October 2022

In the last 20 years, the technique of resonant inelastic X‐ray scattering (RIXS) has been progressing at a high pace thanks to the concomitant development of instrumentation, synchrotron technology, and the theoretical description of the related fundamental process. In this article, we describe some recent aspects related to the fast progress of the RIXS technique and dedicate this article to the memory of Prof. Jean‐Claude Dousse, from the University of Fribourg (Switzerland). We conclude this article by describing early experiments using time‐resolved RIXS at X‐ray free electron lasers and give perspectives on high‐resolution and spatially‐resolved RIXS.
Nordic Public Information: An Epistemic Community of Experiences and Ideas in the 1970s
Authors: Norén Fredrik
Published: October 2022

This chapter studies the exchanges of ideas and experiences related to public information within the Nordic region and beyond. As an empirical case, the analytical focus centres on the Swedish Board of Public Information (Nämnden för samhällsinformation, 1971–1981) and traces the various contacts—through seminars, study visits, conferences, and so on—that the agency initiated and was part of during the 1970s. By examining the archival material through the concepts of epistemic community and circulation of knowledge, the analysis shows how issues of public information attracted various actors—which represented different social sectors (bureaucracy, advertising industry, academia, etc.) and different interests—that met across national borders in attempts to address challenges of communicating societal important information to citizens.
Contested Pictures of Persuasion: American Images of Foetuses in Swedish Antiabortion Campaigns of the 1970s and 1980s
Authors: Björklund Elisabet
Published: October 2022

This chapter explores the circulation, use and public discussion of images of human foetuses travelling from the US to Sweden in the period before and after the introduction of abortion on demand in Sweden in 1975. In this period, new antiabortion groups formed and started to use graphic images of aborted foetuses in their campaigns. This chapter highlights the transnational and transmedial character of this material by demonstrating that many of the images originated from American sources and that many different media were used to spread them, for example, books, brochures, films and slides. Furthermore, this chapter analyses the public discussion about this material, focusing on the uses of words such as “truth”, “information” and “propaganda” in the debates.
A Rain of Propaganda: The Media Production of the Office of War Information in Stockholm, 1942–1945
Authors: Stjernholm Emil
Published: October 2022

This chapter examines the media production of the US Office of War Information (OWI) in Stockholm, 1942–1945. While previous research has focused on the organization of OWI and the American view on war propaganda in Scandinavia, little emphasis has been placed on the actual production and circulation of American propaganda in Sweden during World War II. Drawing on previously neglected archival material from the Civilian Security Service’s (Allmänna Säkerhetstjänsten) counter-espionage on American propaganda activities in Sweden, this chapter maps the material conditions for US propaganda and the circulation of OWI-supported media (e.g. books, magazines, films, radio and news stories) in Sweden as well as the Nordic countries in general.
Andrological Emergencies
Authors: Palumbo Fabrizio , Sebastiani Francesco , Crocerossa Fabio , Mondaini Nicola
Published: October 2022

Introduction: Andrological emergencies include a wide array of acute genital injuries which require immediate care from the specialist. Missing or delaying treatment often results in permanent loss of function or, in some cases, loss of the affected organ itself.

Evidence acquisition: A comprehensive bibliographic search of PubMed database with up-to-date existing reviews and case reports was performed.

Objective: This chapter aims to review major andrological emergencies with peculiar attention to clinical presentation and practical management in order to provide the specialist with reliable information to keep in mind when confronting these challenging occurrences.
Male Reproduction: From Pathophysiology to Clinical Assessment
Authors: Grande Giuseppe , Foresta Carlo
Published: October 2022

Male infertility may depend by pre-testicular (for example, hypothalamic or pituitary diseases), testicular, and post-testicular (for example, obstructive pathologies of seminal ducts) causes. However, a large proportion (30–60%) of infertile males does not receive a clear diagnosis. In these cases, generally reported as idiopathic infertility, there is a strong suspicion of genetic factors yet to be discovered. Furthermore, male fertility may be influenced by a host of lifestyle risk factors such as environment, nutrition, exposure to infections, and smoking. Therefore, lifestyle and environment risk factors may have a role in many cases of idiopathic male infertility.

In this chapter, we focus our attention on these risk factors, discussing three paradigmatic situations of interference between environment/lifestyle and male fertility, thus providing the pathophysiological basis of their detrimental impact on male fertility: exposure to environmental endocrine disruptors, such as perfluoro-alkyl substances (PFAS); exposure to viruses, such as HPV; effect of nutritional status and obesity.
Therapy in Secretory and Obstructive Azoospermia
Authors: Franco Giorgio , Franco Antonio , Proietti Flavia
Published: October 2022

Azoospermia is defined as the absence of sperm in the ejaculate. All etiologies can be categorized in secretory and obstructive azoospermia. Some conditions of obstructive azoospermia are suitable of surgical recanalization to restore natural fertility. Conversely, in cases of nonobstructive etiologies, untreatable obstructive azoospermia, and when female factor is present, sperm retrieval techniques for intracytoplasmatic sperm injection (ICSI) represent the only therapeutic option to reach paternity. The role of the clinical andrologist is to offer to the couple the best treatment option: medical or surgical treatment or sperm retrieval for ICSI.
The Transgender: Legal Path to Surgery
Authors: Costantino Domenico
Published: October 2022

The right to gender identity starts from the need to recognize to individuals a right to self-determination that is considered, in the private and family field, absolute and insusceptible of conditions and limits to its exercise, in the sense that it pertains to that field of freedom that the legal system must protect from aggression, and that it itself cannot attack. Law no. 164 of 14 April 1982 lays down rules on the rectification of the attribution of sex, for a complete regulation of the procedural aspects of the relevant procedure. According to Court of Cassation 20 July 2015 no. 15138, the desire to realize a coincidence between soma and psyche is the result of an elaboration of one’s gender identity, realized with the support of necessary medical and psychological treatments and the path of adaptation is a process of self-determination. In light of constitutional jurisprudence, the rectification of the personal data of the attribution of sex is possible, only on the medico-legal confirmation of the so-called gender dysphoria, even, that is, in the absence of a preventive surgical intervention to adapt the primary sexual characteristics to the “psychic sex.” It is left to the free and unquestionable will of the individual, the decision whether or not to precede the request for rectification of the registry from the submission to the surgical reassignment of the sex.
Sexual Pain Disorders, Vestibulodynia, and Recurrent Cystitis: The Evil Trio
Authors: Graziottin Alessandra , Maseroli Elisa
Published: October 2022

Sexual pain/penetration disorders are often comorbid with recurrent/post-coital cystitis and spontaneous or provoked vestibulodynia or vulvar pain. The figures vary from 34.7–60%, UropathogenicEscherichia coli(UPEC) is responsible for 85–90% of recurrent cystitis cases. Antibiotic treatment is becoming ineffective in the long term. To maximize therapeutic outcomes, a different strategy is worth considering. Common pathophysiological denominators of the three clusters of symptoms present in a patient should be identified. These include (1) predisposing factors: endocellular pathogenic biofilm of the uropathogenicEscherichia coli(UPEC), hyperactive pelvic floor, bowel problems, including irritable bowel syndrome and constipation, intestinal and vaginal dysbiosis, diabetes/familiarity with diabetes, and loss of sexual hormones after menopause; (2) precipitating factors: intercourse, constipation, and cold; and (3) maintaining factors: diagnostic omissions and minimalistic treatment approach. A targeted multimodal therapeutic strategy should then be based on accurate diagnosis. A comprehensive and skilled approach can optimize anticipation of comorbidities and offer better clinical outcomes for women, where sexual pain/penetration disorders, comorbid recurrent and/or post-coital cystitis, and vestibulodynia/vulvar pain are addressed synergistically, the sooner the better.
Erectile Dysfunction: From Pathophysiology to Clinical Assessment
Authors: Mirone Vincenzo , Fusco Ferdinando , Cirillo Luigi , Napolitano Luigi
Published: October 2022

Erection is the final event of a complex phenomenon which involves psychological, neuronal, hormonal, vascular, and muscular systems. Nitric oxide (NO) is the most important molecule involved in many aspects of your health in vasodilation pathway. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is defined as the persistent inability to attain and/or maintain penile erection sufficient to permit satisfactory sexual performance with an high incidence worldwide and important impact on the quality of life.
Erectile Dysfunction: Medical Therapy and Rehabilitation
Authors: Palmieri Alessandro , Capece Marco , di Giovanni Angelo , D’Alterio Carlo
Published: October 2022

Medical treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED) has dramatically evolved in the last decades. However, to set realistic expectations with the patient, a correct counselling is fundamental. Every kind of medical treatment must be discussed with the patient regarding risk factors, prognostic factors, treatment alternatives, correct drug use, and adverse reactions [1].
Peyronie’s Disease
Authors: Palumbo Fabrizio , Sebastiani Francesco , Procacci Alessandro , D’Altilia Nicola , Ricapito Anna , Cormio Luigi
Published: October 2022

Peyronie’s disease (PD), also known as induration penis plastica (IPP), is a clinical condition characterized by the formation of fibrotic plaques onto the tunica albuginea of the penis, which may result into abnormal penile curvature and deformity, erectile dysfunction (ED), and loss of penile length. The combination of these events may result in the impossibility of performing penetrative intercourse [1].
Penile Diseases and Dysmorphisms (Phimosis, Frenulum, Micropenis, and Buried Penis)
Authors: Spilotros Marco , Ambruoso Fabio Michele
Published: October 2022

Aim of this chapter is to give a glance to conditions classified within penile disease and dysmorphism. Balanitis and balanoposthitis, phymosis, and short frenulum are fairly common conditions that an andrologist faces every day while buried penis and micropenis present a lower incidence and may require not only a urological approach but also plastic surgery skills.
Descriptive Accuracy in Explanations: The Case of Probabilistic Classifiers
Authors: Albini Emanuele , Rago Antonio , Baroni Pietro , Toni Francesca
Published: October 2022

A user receiving an explanation for outcomes produced by an artificially intelligent system expects that it satisfies the key property of descriptive accuracy (DA), i.e. that the explanation contents are in correspondence with the internal working of the system. Crucial as this property appears to be, it has been somehow overlooked in the XAI literature to date. To address this problem, we consider the questions of formalising DA and of analysing its satisfaction by explanation methods. We provide formal definitions of naive, structural and dialectical DA, using the family of probabilistic classifiers as the context for our analysis. We evaluate the satisfaction of our given notions of DA by several explanation methods, amounting to two popular feature-attribution methods from the literature and a novel form of explanation that we propose and complement our analysis with experiments carried out on a varied selection of concrete probabilistic classifiers.
Five-loop anomalous dimensions of ϕQ operators in a scalar theory with O(N) symmetry
Authors: Jin Qingjun , Li Yi
Published: October 2022

Abstract

We compute the complete Q-dependence of anomalous dimensions of traceless symmetric tensor operator ϕQ in O(N) scalar theory to five-loop. The renormalization factors are extracted from ϕQ→ Qϕ form factors, and the integrand of form factors are constructed with the help of unitarity cut method. The anomalous dimensions match the known results in [1, 2], where the leading and subleading terms in the large Q limit were obtained using a semiclassical method.
Seltene Erkrankungen und Digitalisierung im Kontext des Nationalen Aktionsbündnisses für Menschen mit Seltenen Erkrankungen (NAMSE)
Authors: Wessel Theda , Heuing Katharina , Schlangen Miriam , Schnieders Birgit , Algermissen Markus
Published: October 2022

Menschen mit Seltenen Erkrankungen stehen im Gesundheitssystem vor besonderen Herausforderungen. Die Seltenheit der einzelnen Erkrankungen erschwert aus strukturellen, medizinischen und ökonomischen Gründen sowohl die medizinische Versorgung als auch die Forschung zu den entsprechenden Themen. Im Jahr 2010 wurde das Nationale Aktionsbündnis für Menschen mit Seltenen Erkrankungen (NAMSE) auf Initiative des Bundesministeriums für Gesundheit gemeinsam mit dem Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung und der Allianz Chronischer Seltener Erkrankungen sowie 25 weiteren Bündnispartnern ins Leben gerufen. Das NAMSE ist seitdem die zentrale Koordinierungs- und Kommunikationsplattform für Menschen mit Seltenen Erkrankungen in Deutschland und hat das Ziel, die gesundheitliche Situation der Betroffenen zu verbessern.

Wesentliche im NAMSE konsentierte Bedarfe an die Digitalisierung im Gesundheitswesen betreffen insbesondere die Vernetzung von Versorgungseinrichtungen, die Generierung von Wissen für die Forschung und die Verbreitung von Informationen. Zielsetzung ist dabei ein gemeinsamer und sicherer Datenraum mit interoperablen Praxis- und Klinikinformationssystemen und einheitlichen semantischen Standards. Der präzisen Kodierung von Seltenen Erkrankungen kommt dabei eine besondere Bedeutung zu.

In den kommenden Jahren müssen wichtige bereits angestoßene Prozesse im Sinne der Betroffenen gestaltet und begleitet werden. Dazu gehören unter anderem die deutsche Genominitiative genomDE, die elektronische Patientenakte und die Vernetzung im europäischen Raum. Damit die vielfältigen Initiativen und Projekte ineinandergreifen können, bedarf es klarer Zielsetzungen im Rahmen eines digitalen Gesamtkonzeptes, für welches das NAMSE wichtige Beiträge leistet.
Seltene Erkrankungen in den Daten sichtbar machen – Kodierung
Authors: Martin Tamara , Rommel Kathrin , Thomas Carina , Eymann Jutta , Kretschmer Tanita , Berner Reinhard , Lee-Kirsch Min Ae , Hebestreit Helge
Published: October 2022

Seltene Erkrankungen (SE) werden durch die im deutschen Gesundheitssystem verwendete Diagnosenklassifikation ICD-10-GM (International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health problems, 10th Revision, German Modification) nur zu einem kleinen Teil eindeutig erfasst. Daher sind Aussagen zur Häufigkeit von SE sowie zum speziellen Versorgungs- und Finanzierungsbedarf nicht möglich, was zu einer lückenhaften Datenlage als Entscheidungsgrundlage für Krankenkassen, Leistungserbringer und Gesundheitspolitik führt. Das Fehlen exakter Informationen behindert auch die wissenschaftliche Arbeit. Daher wird deutschlandweit ab 2023 die Verwendung der Alpha-ID-SE-Datei und der ORPHAcodes für die spezifische Erfassung von SE bei stationären Fällen verpflichtend.

Die Alpha-ID-SE-Datei verknüpft die ICD-10-GM-Kodes mit den international anerkannten ORPHAcodes für die Diagnose von SE. Kommerzielle Anbieter stellen zunehmend die benötigten IT-Tools zur Kodierung von SE zur Verfügung. An mehreren Universitätskliniken mit Zentren für SE wurden Lösungen etabliert, die eine vollständige Kodierung gewährleisten sollen. Hierzu gehören finanzielle Anreize für die kodierenden Bereiche, konkrete Nachfragen nach dem Vorliegen einer SE beim Kodiervorgang und eine semiautomatische Kodierung bei Patient*innen, die schon einmal mit einer SE an der Einrichtung betreut worden waren. Eine Kombination der verschiedenen Ansätze verspricht die höchste Wahrscheinlichkeit einer vollständigen Kodierung.

Für ein umfängliches Bild der SE im Gesundheitssystem und um dem speziellen Versorgungs- und Finanzierungsbedarf besser Rechnung tragen zu können, wäre auch im ambulanten Bereich eine möglichst spezifische und eindeutige Kodierung wünschenswert. Für komplexe SE und bisher undiagnostizierte Patient*innen wird zusätzlich eine strukturierte Erfassung des Phänotyps benötigt.
Transkulturelle deutschsprachige Übersetzung des Fragebogens Reflux Symptom Score-12
Authors: Bruhn Johanna , Brockmann-Bauser M. , Swing Tyler , Bohlender Jörg E. , Runggaldier Daniel
Published: October 2022

Bei der Diagnostik des laryngopharyngealen Refluxes (LPR) spielen neben einer anamnestischen und klinischen bzw. apparativen Beurteilung auch Fragebögen zur detaillierten Erfassung der Symptomatik eine wesentliche Rolle. Neben dem Reflux Symptom Index (RSI), dem bekanntesten LPR-Symptomfragebogen, wurde kürzlich auch ein neuer Fragebogen, „Reflux Symptom Score“ (RSS), sowie eine kürzere Version, der Reflux Symptom Score 12 (RSS-12), veröffentlicht. Letzterer ist allerdings nur in englischer, französischer und portugiesischer Sprache verfügbar, ermöglicht jedoch eine wesentlich genauere Differenzierung der Symptomatik unter Einbeziehung von Symptomstärke, Häufigkeit des Auftretens von Beschwerden sowie der refluxbezogenen Beeinträchtigung der Lebensqualität. Das Ziel dieser Arbeit ist daher, eine entsprechende transkulturelle deutschsprachige Übersetzung des RSS-12 (aktuell nun als G‑RSS-12 bezeichnet) mit Verständlichkeitstestung vorzustellen, um den klinischen und wissenschaftlichen Einsatz dieses Fragebogens auch im deutschsprachigen Raum zu ermöglichen.
Association between obstetric mode of delivery and emotional and behavioural problems in children and adolescents: the children of the 90s health study
Authors: Dachew Berihun Assefa , Tessema Gizachew A. , Alati Rosa
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Existing evidence on the relationship between mode of delivery and offspring emotional and behavioural problems, especially in older age groups, is limited and inconsistent. This study aimed to examine the association between obstetric mode of delivery and emotional and behavioural problems in offspring aged 3–16 years.

Methods

The sample for this study comprised participants in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) in the United Kingdom. The study cohort ranged from 7074 (at 3 years of age) to 4071 (at 16 years of age) mother–offspring pairs. Data on obstetric mode of delivery were abstracted from obstetric records by trained research midwives and classified as spontaneous vaginal delivery, assisted vaginal delivery and caesarean delivery (elective and emergency). Offspring emotional and behavioural problems were measured using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) when the child was 3, 7, 9, 11, and 16 years. Logistic regression analyses were used to examine associations.

Results

Assisted vaginal delivery was associated with an increased risk of emotional problems at age 11 years (OR = 1.42; 95% CI 1.11–1.81). No significant associations were observed at ages 3, 7, 9 and 16. We found no evidence of associations between caesarean delivery (elective or emergency) and emotional and behavioural measures in offspring across all age groups.

Conclusion

Mode of delivery does not appear to be associated with emotional and behavioural problems in children and adolescents. Further research is needed to understand the potential longer-term effects of assisted vaginal deliveries on offspring emotional development.
Indirect effects of cleaner fish Labroides dimidiatus on fish grazing per reef area and benthic community structure
Authors: Grutter A. S. , Bejarano S. , Sun D. , Mumby P. J.
Published: October 2022

Grazing fishes farm algae, and consume algae, detritus and sediment and consequently differentially modify benthic communities. Manipulations of cleaner fish Labroides dimidiatus on reefs show that cleaners affect fish abundance differently according to grazer functional group. Accordingly, whether reefs are grazed differently, with consequences for the benthos (fouling material tile−1), was tested using reefs kept free of L. dimidiatus for 10 years compared with undisturbed control reefs. We recorded on video the grazing density (bites tile−1 h−1 reef−1) on settlement tiles and the natural benthos (roving fishes only), according to territorial algal farmer (Pomacentridae) and roving grazer (Acanthuridae, Labridae, Siganidae) functional groups, and measured the accumulation of fouling material tile−1 after 10 months. Grazing density on tiles (dominated by ‘indeterminate’ farmers, and roving ‘sediment-removing’ detritivore Ctenochaetus striatus) and the natural benthos (dominated by Ct. striatus and other grazers) was not measurably affected by cleaner presence. The composition of fouling material (dominated by detritus > turf algae > sediment > other) and organic and inorganic dry weight of material tile−1 were also not measurably affected by cleaner presence. This points to resilience of the benthic community to loss of cleaners. The likely complex interactions between cleaner fish presence, grazer abundance and mobility, and the often-opposite effects of territorial farmers and roving grazers on the benthos underscore the challenge in determining indirect effects of cleaners on benthic community structure. However, a lack of cleaners has negative ramifications for fish populations and physiology and thus their loss remains problematic for client fishes.
Association of lumbar vertebral bone marrow and paraspinal muscle fat composition with intervertebral disc degeneration: 3T quantitative MRI findings from the population-based KORA study
Authors: Jung Matthias , Rospleszcz Susanne , Löffler Maximilian T. , Walter Sven S. , Maurer Elke , Jungmann Pia M. , Peters Annette , Nattenmüller Johanna , Schlett Christopher L. , Bamberg Fabian , Kiefer Lena S. , Diallo Thierno D.
Published: October 2022

Objective

To assess the association of lumbar bone marrow adipose tissue fat fraction (BMAT-FF) and paraspinal muscle proton density fat fraction (PDFF) and their interplay with intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD).

Methods

In this retrospective cross-sectional study based on a prospective population-based cohort, BMAT-FF and PDFF of asymptomatic individuals were calculated based on 3T-MRI dual-echo and multi-echo Dixon VIBE sequences. IVDD was assessed at motion segments L1 to L5 and dichotomized based on Pfirrmann grade ≥ 4 and/or presence of other severe degenerative changes or spinal abnormalities at least at one segment. Pearson’s correlation coefficients were calculated for BMAT-FF and PDFF. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression models for IVDD were calculated.

Results

Among 335 participants (mean age: 56.2 ± 9.0 years, 43.3% female), the average BMI was 27.7 ± 4.5 kg/m2 and the prevalence of IVDD was high (69.9%). BMAT-FF and PDFF were significantly correlated (r = 0.31–0.34; p < 0.001). The risk for IVDD increased with higher PDFF (OR = 1.45; CI 1.03, 2.04) and BMAT-FF (OR = 1.56; CI 1.16, 2.11). Pairwise combinations of PDFF and BMAT-FF quartiles revealed a lower risk for IVDD in individuals in the lowest BMAT-FF and PDFF quartile (OR = 0.21; CI 0.1, 0.48). Individuals in the highest BMAT-FF and PDFF quartile showed an increased risk for IVDD (OR = 5.12; CI 1.17, 22.34)

Conclusion

Lumbar BMAT-FF and paraspinal muscle PDFF are correlated and represent both independent and additive risk factors for IVDD. Quantitative MRI measurements of paraspinal myosteatosis and vertebral bone marrow fatty infiltration may serve as imaging biomarkers to assess the individual risk for IVDD.

Key Points

• Fat composition of the lumbar vertebral bone marrow is positively correlated with paraspinal skeletal muscle fat.

• Higher fat-fractions of lumbar vertebral bone marrow and paraspinal muscle are both independent as well as additive risk factors for intervertebral disc degeneration.

• Quantitative magnetic resonance imaging measurements of bone marrow and paraspinal muscle may serve as imaging biomarkers for intervertebral disc degeneration.
The effects of probiotic and synbiotic supplementation on inflammation, oxidative stress, and circulating adiponectin and leptin concentration in subjects with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes mellitus: a GRADE-assessed systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Naseri Kaveh , Saadati Saeede , Ghaemi Farahnaz , Ashtary-Larky Damoon , Asbaghi Omid , Sadeghi Amir , Afrisham Reza , de Courten Barbora
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Probiotics or synbiotics consumption have been suggested to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) through a decline in inflammation and oxidative stress, however, the results from studies are conflicting. This study filled this knowledge gap by evaluating randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating probiotics or synbiotics intake on adipokines, inflammation, and oxidative stress in patients with prediabetes and type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods

We systematically did search up to March 2022 in PubMed/Medline, Scopus, ISI Web of Science, and Cochrane library. A random-effect model was applied to estimate the weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) for each outcome.

Results

A total of 32 RCTs were included in the meta-analysis. This intervention led to a significant decrease in levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) (WMD − 0.62 mg/l; 95% CI − 0.80, − 0.44; p < 0.001), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) (WMD − 0.27 pg/ml; 95% CI − 0.44, − 0.10; p = 0.002) and malondialdehyde (MDA) (WMD − 0.51 µmol/l; 95% CI − 0.73, − 0.30; p < 0.001), and also a significant increase in levels of glutathione (GSH) (WMD 69.80 µmol/l; 95% CI 33.65, 105.95; p < 0.001), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (WMD 73.59 mmol/l; 95% CI 33.24, 113.95; p < 0.001) and nitric oxide (NO) (WMD 7.49 µmol/l; 95% CI 3.12, 11.86; p = 0.001), without significant alterations in interleukin-6 (IL-6) and adipokines levels.

Conclusion

A consumption of probiotics or synbiotics could be a useful intervention to improve cardiometabolic outcomes through a reduced inflammation and oxidative stress in patients with prediabetes and T2DM.
Guideline concordant therapy improves survival in high-grade endometrial cancer patients
Authors: Scharl Sophia , Sprötge Tim , Gerken Michael , Scharl Anton , Ortmann Olaf , Kölbl Oliver , Klinkhammer‑Schalke Monika , Papathemelis Thomas
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Data from randomized controlled trials in high-grade endometrial cancer are scarce due to its low prevalence. Therefore, guideline recommendations in this cancer subtype rely on relatively few randomized trials and data from retrospective studies. The aim of this study was to evaluate the benefits from guideline-concordant therapy in high-grade endometrial cancer in a real-world patient group.

Methods

The effect of treatment according to German S3 guidelines and the former S2k guideline on overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) was evaluated in a cohort of 293 high-grade endometrial cancer patients.

Results

Treatment concordant with the S3 guideline significantly improved OS (HR 0.623, CI 0.420–0.923, p = 0.018) and RFS (HR 0.578, CI 0.387–0.863, p = 0.007). Treatment concordant with the S2k guideline did not result in a significantly higher OS (HR 0.783, CI 0.465–1.316, p = 0.335) or RFS (HR 0.741, CI 0.347–1.740, p = 0.242).

Conclusion

Therapy according to the German S3 guideline improved OS and RFS in univariate as well as multivariate analysis in this cohort of high-grade endometrial cancer patients.
Cancer care in German centers of excellence during the first 2 years of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Arndt Volker , Doege Daniela , Fröhling Stefan , Albers Peter , Algül Hana , Bargou Ralf , Bokemeyer Carsten , Bornhäuser Martin , Brandts Christian H. , Brossart Peter , Brucker Sara Yvonne , Brümmendorf Tim H. , Döhner Hartmut , Gattermann Norbert , Hallek Michael , Heinemann Volker , Keilholz Ulrich , Kindler Thomas , von Levetzow Cornelia , Lordick Florian , Neumann Ulf Peter , Peters Christoph , Schadendorf Dirk , Stilgenbauer Stephan , Zander Thomas , Zips Daniel , Braun Delia , Seufferlein Thomas , Nettekoven Gerd , Baumann Michael
Published: October 2022

Purpose

An increasing number of international studies demonstrate serious negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the timely diagnosis of cancer and on cancer treatment. Our study aimed to quantitatively and qualitatively evaluate the capacities of German Comprehensive Cancer Centers (CCCs) in different areas of complex oncology care during the first 2 years of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Prospective panel survey over 23 rounds among 18 CCCs in Germany between March 2020 and June 2022.

Results

The COVID-19 pandemic substantially affected the oncological care system in Germany during the first 2 years. Persistent limitations of care in CCCs primarily affected follow-up (− 21%) and psycho-oncologic care (− 12%), but also tumor surgery (− 9%). Substantial limitations were also reported for all other areas of multidisciplinary oncological care.

Conclusions

This study documents the limitations of oncological care during the COVID-19 pandemic and highlights the need to develop strategies to avoid similar limitations in the future.
Effects of Schroth method and core stabilization exercises on idiopathic scoliosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Dimitrijević Vanja , Viduka Dejan , Šćepanović Tijana , Maksimović Nebojša , Giustino Valerio , Bianco Antonino , Drid Patrik
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Conservative approaches such as Schroth exercises and core stabilization exercises showed effective results in the treatment of idiopathic scoliosis. This study aimed to critically evaluate the magnitude effect of Schroth and core stabilization exercises using a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods

This study has been developed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) Statement. The following three databases were searched for articles collection: Web of Science, PubMed, and Google Scholar. The key search terms were: Schroth exercise, core exercise, idiopathic scoliosis, Cobb angle, angle of trunk rotation, and quality of life. The articles included in our study was limited to original articles written only in English that met the following inclusion criteria: (1) Participants with idiopathic scoliosis; (2) Schroth exercises and core stabilization exercises used as interventions; (3) Cobb angle or angle of trunk rotation or quality of life used as outcome measures.

Results

Thirteen studies were included. Depending on the outcome measured, the magnitude effect of Schroth and core stabilization exercises ranged from small to almost large as follows: Cobb angle (SMD = – 0.376, p ˂ 0.001); angle of trunk rotation (SMD = – 0.268, p = 0.104); quality of life (SMD = 0.774, p = 0.002). By subgroup analysis, Schroth method showed a larger effect size than core stabilization exercises.

Conclusion

The current systematic review and meta-analysis indicates that both Schroth method and core stabilization exercises have a positive effect in subjects with idiopathic scoliosis. Subgroup analysis showed that the Schroth method had a larger effect size than the core stabilization exercises.
Kinetin induces microtubular breakdown, cell cycle arrest and programmed cell death in tobacco BY-2 cells
Authors: Kaźmierczak Andrzej , Siatkowska Ewa , Li Ruoxi , Bothe Sophie , Nick Peter
Published: October 2022

Plant cells can undergo regulated cell death in response to exogenous factors (often in a stress context), but also as regular element of development (often regulated by phytohormones). The cellular aspects of these death responses differ, which implies that the early signalling must be different. We use cytokinin-induced programmed cell death as paradigm to get insight into the role of the cytoskeleton for the regulation of developmentally induced cell death, using tobacco BY-2 cells as experimental model. We show that this PCD in response to kinetin correlates with an arrest of the cell cycle, a deregulation of DNA replication, a loss of plasma membrane integrity, a subsequent permeabilisation of the nuclear envelope, an increase of cytosolic calcium correlated with calcium depletion in the culture medium, an increase of callose deposition and the loss of microtubule and actin integrity. We discuss these findings in the context of a working model, where kinetin, mediated by calcium, causes the breakdown of the cytoskeleton, which, either by release of executing proteins or by mitotic catastrophe, will result in PCD.
Hydro(geo)chemische und ökologische Bestandsaufnahme von Quellregionen als isolierte Grundwasser-Ökosysteme
Authors: Göbel Patricia , Römer Marius , Weckwert Nils , Abdulghani Alqaragholi Sura , Hahn Hans Jürgen , Meyer Elisabeth I. , Knöller Kay , Strauss Harald
Published: October 2022

Zwei Untersuchungsgebiete im zentralen Münsterland (Baumberge, NRW, Deutschland) sind aufgrund der geologischen Reliefumkehr-Situation isolierte Grundwasser-Ökosysteme, welche nur von infiltrierendem Niederschlagswasser beeinflusst werden. Als sogenannte „Natur-Lysimeter“ eignen sie sich mit ihren insgesamt bis zu 200 natürlichen Quellaustritten als multidisziplinäre Bezugssysteme für wasserdurchlässige Kluftgrundwasserleitersysteme (aus Kalkmergelsteinen). Die Betrachtung der langjährigen Veränderungen des Stoffaustrags an den Quellen deuten auf zunehmende Verkarstung und raumzeitlich wechselnde Einflüsse durch die land- und forstwirtschaftlich genutzte Geländeoberfläche hin. Stabile Sulfatisotope zeigen, dass die Mehrheit der Quellen durch den Eintrag von Gülle in deren Quell-Einzugsgebiet beeinflusst wird und dass die Pyritoxidation ein wichtiger Prozess im tieferen Grundwasserkörper ist. Die Nitratkonzentrationen sind im Allgemeinen hoch (über 50 mg/l) und stammen aus Gülle und/oder Kunstdünger, wie stabile Nitratisotope zeigen. Der ökologische Zustand des Grundwassersystems wird aufgrund von Crustaceen im Grundwasser als gut bewertet. Der Stoffaustrag jedes noch so kleinen Quellaustritts zeigt mit dem Grundwasserstand sich verändernde Zumischungsanteile von tieferem Grundwasser an.
Modelling the final discharge angle in flighted rotary drums
Authors: Seidenbecher J. , Herz F. , Sunkara K. R. , Mellmann J.
Published: October 2022

Rotary drums equipped with longitudinal flights are mainly used to dry granular solids and handle high throughputs. The design of the flights is a crucial task because they decisively influence the distribution of the particles over the dryer cross section. In a previous work, the authors derived a mathematical model for the particle flow in rotary drums with rectangular flights. In this model, the final discharge angle was underpredicted resulting in errors when calculating the contact area of the particles in the air-borne phase. Therefore, a new model was developed in this study to predict the final discharge angle based on a forces balance approach on a single particle. This approach includes the Coriolis force acting on the last discharging particles sliding down the inclined flight sheet. The model was solved by using the vector analysis method. Experiments were performed at rotary drums with 0.5 m and 1.0 m in diameter, respectively, and 0.15/0.3 m in length using glass beads and quartz sand as bed materials. Each drum was equipped with 12 flights around the shell. The model validation was performed by varying the bed material, drum diameter, flight length ratio, and the rotating speed. The model predictions have shown that as the flight length ratio and the Froude number increased, the final discharge angle attained higher values. The model predictions agree well with the measurements.

Graphic abstract
Complementing or Congruent? Desired Characteristics in a Friend and Romantic Partner in Autistic versus Typically Developing Male Adolescents
Authors: Dekker Linda P. , van der Vegt Esther J. M. , Louwerse Anneke , Visser Kirsten , van der Ende Jan , Maras Athanasios , Verhulst Frank C. , Greaves-Lord Kirstin
Published: October 2022

Ideal friend and romantic partner characteristics related to self-perceived characteristics have been investigated in typically developing (TD) individuals, but not in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Considering the autistic symptoms and challenges, investigating these concepts in autistic individuals is relevant. Given the lack of consensus, identity-first (“autistic person”) and person-first (“person with autism”) language are mixed throughout, to cover all preferences. This study explored (1) the association between self-perceived characteristics and desires in a friend/romantic partner, as well as (2) compare two groups (ASD and TD) in their desires for a friend/romantic partner. Two matched groups (ASD and TD) of 38 male adolescents (age 14–19 years) reported on the desire for nine characteristics (i.e., funny, popular, nice, cool, smart, trustworthy, good looking, similar interests, and being rich) in a friend/partner, and to what extent they felt they themselves possessed seven characteristics (i.e., funny, popular, nice, cool, smart, trustworthy, and good looking). Results showed both groups sought a friend and partner similar to themselves on intrinsic characteristics (e.g., trustworthiness), but less similar on extrinsic and social status characteristics (e.g., being less cool and popular). Particularly intrinsic characteristics, more than extrinsic and social status characteristics, were valued in both partners and friends, regardless of group. No significant differences were found between groups concerning to what extent characteristics were desired. Overall, adolescents with ASD desire similar characteristics as TD adolescents in their potential romantic partners and friends. There is some indication that the match between self-perception and desired characteristics is different.
The Linear Elastic Wedge Under a Tip Couple at the Critical Angle. Where Is the Paradox?
Authors: Royer-Carfagni Gianni , Zandekarimi Salman
Published: October 2022

The classical problem of a two-dimensional infinite linear elastic wedge, with opening angle of $2\alpha $
2
α
, subjected to the action of a concentrated couple at its tip, was considered by Carothers. The solution, which presents a quadratic singularity in the stress field, suffers a spurious behavior at the critical angle $\alpha = \alpha ^{*} \simeq \, 0.715 \,\pi $
α
=

α
∗

≃

0.715

π
, when the stress grows unboundedly within the body. This inconsistency is usually referred to as the “wedge paradox”. Here, relying on rather intuitive arguments, we present a representation for the stress field in the wedge which captures other states characterized by a quadratic singularity. This is first obtained by considering an auxiliary problem, in which the wedge is ideally split into three wedges under tip couples, whose values are determined by compatibility conditions in terms of stress and displacement on the common lines. Remarkably, we find that the state of stress varies continuously on $\alpha $
α
; at $\alpha =\alpha ^{*}$
α
=

α
∗

the stress does not vanish, although the action at the wedge tip has zero resultant and zero moment resultant. An alternative derivation of the elastic solution in the wedge, which relies upon the notion of nuclei of strain, suggests that, at the critical angle, the applied action is that of dipoles without moment at the tip point. We conclude that it is the form of Carothers’ solution that cannot account for all states of stress characterized by a quadratic singularity at the vertex. The paradox naturally disappears in the proposed representation.
A multi-resolution approach to hydraulic fracture simulation
Authors: Costa Andre , Cusini Matteo , Jin Tao , Settgast Randolph , Dolbow John E.
Published: October 2022

We present a multi-resolution approach for constructing model-based simulations of hydraulic fracturing, wherein flow through porous media is coupled with fluid-driven fracture. The approach consists of a hybrid scheme that couples a discrete crack representation in a global domain to a phase-field representation in a local subdomain near the crack tip. The multi-resolution approach addresses issues such as the computational expense of accurate hydraulic fracture simulations and the difficulties associated with reconstructing crack apertures from diffuse fracture representations. In the global domain, a coupled system of equations for displacements and pressures is considered. The crack geometry is assumed to be fixed and the displacement field is enriched with discontinuous functions. Around the crack tips in the local subdomains, phase-field sub-problems are instantiated on the fly to propagate fractures in arbitrary, mesh independent directions. The governing equations and fields in the global and local domains are approximated using a combination of finite-volume and finite element discretizations. The efficacy of the method is illustrated through various benchmark problems in hydraulic fracturing, as well as a new study of fluid-driven crack growth around a stiff inclusion.
The Horizons of Chronic Shame
Authors: Dolezal Luna
Published: October 2022

Experiences of shame are not always discrete, but can be recurrent, persistent or enduring. To use the feminist phenomenologist Sandra Lee Bartky’s formulation, shame is not always an acute event, but can become a “pervasive affective attunement” (Bartky, 1990: 85). Instead of experiencing shame as a discrete event with a finite duration, it can be experienced as a persistent, and perhaps, permanent possibility in daily life. This sort of pervasive or persistent shame is commonly referred to as “chronic shame” (Pattison, 2000; Nathanson, 1992; Dolezal, 2015). Chronic shame is frequently associated with political oppression and marginalization. In chronic shame, it is the potentiality of shame, rather than the actuality, that is significant. In other words, the anticipation of shame (whether explicit or implicit) comes to be a defining feature of one’s lived experience. Living with chronic shame has important socio-political consequences. Thus far, chronic shame has eluded simple phenomenological analysis, largely because chronic shame often does not have a clear experiential profile: it is frequently characterised by the absence rather than the presence of shame. The aim of this article is to provide a phenomenology of chronic shame, drawing from Edmund Husserl’s formulation of the ‘horizon’ as a means a to discuss structural aspects of chronic shame experiences, in particular how chronic shame is characterised by structures of absence and anticipation.
Resisting Moral Conservatism with Difficulties of Reality: a Wittgensteinian-Diamondian Approach to Animal Ethics
Authors: Deininger Konstantin , Aigner Andreas , Grimm Herwig
Published: October 2022

In this paper, we tackle the widely held view that practice-oriented approaches to ethics are conservative, preserving the moral status quo, and, in particular, that they do not promote any (fundamental) change in our dealings with animals or formulate clear principles that help us to achieve such change. We shall challenge this view with reference to Wittgensteinian ethics. As a first step, we show that moral thought and action rest on basic moral certainties like: equals are to be treated equally and unequals unequally. We then explore the relations between this insight and the notion of the difficulty of reality elaborated by Cora Diamond. Our goal is to show that a Wittgensteinian-Diamondian approach to animal ethics is not necessarily morally conservative. Indeed, it offers a profound practice-oriented approach to animal ethics that is capable of promoting change in human dealings with animals because it is compatible with radical critique.