bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Internationalization Through Digital Empowerment for Women Filigree Jewelry Artisan Entrepreneurs in Portugal
Authors: Ratten Vanessa , Braga Vitor
Published: June 2024

The purpose of this study is to examine how Portuguese women jewelry artisan entrepreneurs are empowered using digital technology. Recently, there has been an emphasis on the artisan and craft industry due to renewed interest in handicrafts but limited research exists about how digital and international entrepreneurship has influenced its growth. This study focuses on this gap by stressing the need to take a gender lens on international digital business activity in terms of how it is conducted. In‐depth semistructured interviews with women jewelry makers located in Portugal were conducted to understand how their digital experiences led to increased levels of internationalization. The findings suggest that the use of digital technology was supported by co‐creation, internationalization, and sustainability initiatives. The results of the study highlight the way crisis conditions from the COVID‐19 pandemic led to increased emphasis by artisan entrepreneurs on digital entrepreneurship and this had flow‐on effects leading to higher internationalization rates.
Effective and safe implementation of robot‐assisted donor nephrectomy by experienced laparoscopic surgeons
Authors: van de Geijn Emma F. , Janki Shiromani , de Vries Dorottya K. , Nijboer Willemijn N. , Alwayn Ian P. J. , Nieuwenhuizen Jeroen , Baranski Andrzej G. , Schaapherder Alexander F. M. , de Vries Aiko P. J. , Huurman Volkert A. L. , Lam Hwai‐Ding
Published: June 2024

Background

In June 2021, the first robot‐assisted donor nephrectomy (RADN) was performed at the Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), the Netherlands. The goal of this study was to investigate whether this procedure has been implemented safely and efficiently.

Methods

RADN was retrospectively compared to laparoscopic donor nephrectomy (LDN) performed during the same time period (June 2021 until November 2022). Patients were assigned to RADN depending on the availability of the da Vinci robot and surgical team. The studied endpoints were postoperative complications, operative time, estimated blood loss, warm ischemic time (WIT), and postoperative pain experience. For analysis, the Student's t‐test and Chi‐squared test were used for, respectively, continuous and categorical data.

Results

Forty RADN were compared to 63 LDN. Total insufflation time was significantly longer in RADN compared to LDN (188 min (169–214) versus 172 min (144–194); p = 0.02). Additionally, WIT was also found to be significantly higher in the robot‐assisted group (04:54 min vs. 04:07 min; p < 0.01). No statistical differences were found in postoperative outcomes (eGFR of the recipient at 3‐month follow‐up, RADN 54.08 mL/min ±18.79 vs. LDN 56.41 mL/min ±16.82; p = 0.52), pain experience, and complication rate.

Conclusion

RADN was safely and efficiently implemented at the LUMC. It's results were not inferior to laparoscopic donor nephrectomy. Operative time and warm ischemic times were longer in RADN. This may relate to a learning curve effect. No clinically relevant effect on postoperative outcomes was observed.
Discovery of novel cellobiose lipid gene clusters from Basidiomycetes: How chemical variation is reflected in gene cluster architecture
Authors: Sips Lobke Maria , Lambrecht Laurens , Van Bogaert Inge Noëlle Adrienne
Published: June 2024

Cellobiose lipids are surface‐active compounds or biological detergents produced by distinct Basidiomycetes yeasts, of which the most and best‐described ones belong to the Ustilaginomycetes class. The molecules display slight variation in congener type, which is linked to the hydroxylation position of the long fatty acid, acetylation profile of the cellobiose unit, and presence or absence of the short fatty acid. In general, this variation is strain specific. Although cellobiose lipid biosynthesis has been described for about 11 yeast species, hitherto only two types of biosynthetic gene clusters are identified, and this for only three species. This work adds six more biosynthetic gene clusters and describes for the first time a novel type of cellobiose lipid biosynthetic cluster with a simplified architecture related to specific cellobiose lipids synthesized by Trichosporonaceae family members.
Distributing Climate Costs Fairly
Authors: de Vries Annick , Werner Gijsbert , Wijlhuizen Elsenoor , Toom Victor , Bovens Mark , Hulscher Suzanne
Published: June 2024

In this book, the Netherlands Scientific Council for Government Policy (WRR) considers climate policies in the light of distributive justice. We ask how a society can distribute the costs of climate policy in a way that is fair, and we offer recommendations on how to embed distributive justice in climate policies. This first chapter introduces the problem, defines major concepts and presents the outline of the book.
Distributing the Dutch Reduction Targets
Authors: de Vries Annick , Werner Gijsbert , Wijlhuizen Elsenoor , Toom Victor , Bovens Mark , Hulscher Suzanne
Published: June 2024

Allocating the carbon budget is a fundamental issue of distributive justice in global climate policy. At the national level, the carbon budget is often translated into sectoral reduction targets. In this chapter, we ask how the reduction targets should be distributed amongst the industrial, electricity, agriculture and land use, mobility, and built environment sectors. From a perspective of distributive justice, we ask which sectors need to reduce the most carbon emissions if we are to achieve the national targets?
Flood Protection Policies
Authors: de Vries Annick , Werner Gijsbert , Wijlhuizen Elsenoor , Toom Victor , Bovens Mark , Hulscher Suzanne
Published: June 2024

Flood protection policy is an existential cause in the Netherlands. It involves the distribution of flood protection measures as well as the distribution of the costs involved. In this chapter, we articulate who benefits from investments in flood protection, and who pays for them. We then consider which distributive principles we can identify in this type of adaptation policy. We explain how other distributive justice considerations and principles could also have been deployed.
Damage After Extreme Rainfall
Authors: de Vries Annick , Werner Gijsbert , Wijlhuizen Elsenoor , Toom Victor , Bovens Mark , Hulscher Suzanne
Published: June 2024

Extreme weather already causes much damage today, and it will become only more common as climate change progresses, not only in the Netherlands itself but also in the Caribbean territories. In this chapter, we specifically examine the damage caused by extreme rainfall, who is compensated for it, and who actually pays for it. We then consider which distributive principles we can identify in policies. We explain how other distributive justice considerations and principles could also have been deployed.
The constructive method for massive particles in QED
Authors: Lai Hsing-Yi , Liu Da , Terning John
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The constructive method of determining amplitudes from on-shell pole structure has been shown to be promising for calculating amplitudes in a more efficient way. However, challenges have been encountered when a massless internal photon is involved in the gluing of three-point amplitudes with massive external particles. In this paper, we use the original on-shell method, old-fashioned perturbation theory, to shed light on the constructive method, and show that one can derive the Feynman amplitude by correctly identifying the residue even when there is an internal photon involved.
Manifest color-kinematics duality for point particles interacting with self-dual fields
Authors: Ivanovskiy Vyacheslav , Ponomarev Dmitry
Published: June 2024

Abstract

We find that point particles interacting with a self-dual Yang-Mills field and self-dual gravity manifestly satisfy color-kinematics duality at the level of action. In a similar way color-kinematics duality also holds for a scalar field minimally coupled to a self-dual Yang-Mills field and self-dual gravity. By applying the appropriate limiting procedure to these scalar field theories we reproduce point particle theories we started from. This allows us to connect worldline color-kinematics duality to amplitude color-kinematics duality in field theory. Considering that point particles act as sources of classical solutions, our results may be regarded as a step towards establishing a precise relation between the amplitude and the classical double copies in the self-dual sector. Finally, we briefly mention that the extension of this discussion to the higher-spin case suggests that scalar point particles cannot interact with chiral higher-spin fields.
Probing ultralight isospin-violating mediators at GW170817
Authors: Liu Zuowei , Tang Zi-Wei
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Gravitational wave (GW) signals arising from binary neutron star mergers offer new, sensitive probes to ultralight mediators. Here we analyze the GW signals in the GW170817 event detected by the LIGO/Virgo collaboration to impose constraints on the ultralight isospin-violating mediator that has different couplings to protons and neutrons. Neutron stars, which primarily consist of neutrons, are the ideal places to probe the isospin-violating mediator. Such a mediator can significantly alter the dynamics of the binary neutron star mergers, through both the long-range Yukawa force and the new dipole radiation. We compute the gravitational waveform by taking into account the new physics effects due to the isospin-violating mediator and use the Bayesian inference to analyze the gravitational wave data in the GW170817 event. We find that although the current fifth force experiments (including MICROSCOPE and EW) often provide more stringent constraints than the GW170817 data, in the parameter space where the isospin-violating force is completely screened by the Earth (namely, the Earth is charge neutral under this force), the GW170817 data offer the leading constraints: the upper bound on the neutron coupling is fn ≲ 10−19 in the mediator mass range of ≃ (3 × 10−16, 5 × 10−14) eV.
A precise electron EDM constraint on CP-odd heavy-quark Yukawas
Authors: Brod Joachim , Polonsky Zachary , Stamou Emmanuel
Published: June 2024

Abstract

CP-odd Higgs couplings to bottom and charm quarks arise in many extensions of the standard model and are of potential interest for electroweak baryogenesis. These couplings induce a contribution to the electron EDM. The experimental limit on the latter then leads to a strong bound on the CP-odd Higgs couplings. We point out that this bound receives large QCD corrections, even though it arises from a leptonic observable. We calculate the contribution of CP-odd Higgs couplings to the bottom and charm quarks in renormalisation-group improved perturbation theory at next-to-leading order in the strong interaction, thereby reducing the uncertainty to a few percent.
Coloured spin-1 states in composite Higgs models
Authors: Cacciapaglia Giacomo , Deandrea Aldo , Kunkel Manuel , Porod Werner
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Strong dynamics for composite Higgs models predict spin-1 resonances which are expected to be in the same mass range as the usually considered top-partners. We study here QCD-coloured vector and axial-vector states stemming from composite Higgs dynamics in several relevant models based on an underlying gauge-fermion description. These states can come as triplet, sextet and octet representation. All models considered have a colour octet vector state in common which can be singly produced at hadron colliders as it mixes with the gluon. We explore the rich and testable phenomenology of these coloured spin-1 states at the LHC and future colliders.
A hyperbolic Kac-Moody Calogero model
Authors: Lechtenfeld Olaf , Zagier Don
Published: June 2024

Abstract

A new kind of quantum Calogero model is proposed, based on a hyperbolic Kac-Moody algebra. We formulate nonrelativistic quantum mechanics on the Minkowskian root space of the simplest rank-3 hyperbolic Lie algebra AE3 with an inverse-square potential given by its real roots and reduce it to the unit future hyperboloid. By stereographic projection this defines a quantum mechanics on the Poincaré disk with a unique potential. Since the Weyl group of AE3 is a ℤ2 extension of the modular group PSL(2,ℤ), the model is naturally formulated on the complex upper half plane, and its potential is a real modular function. We present and illustrate the relevant features of AE3, give some approximations to the potential and rewrite it as an (almost everywhere convergent) Poincaré series. The standard Dunkl operators are constructed and investigated on Minkowski space and on the hyperboloid. In the former case we find that their commutativity is obstructed by rank-2 subgroups of hyperbolic type (the simplest one given by the Fibonacci sequence), casting doubt on the integrability of the model. An appendix with Don Zagier investigates the computability of the potential. We foresee applications to cosmological billards and to quantum chaos.
Electric network and Hirota type 4-simplex maps
Authors: Konstantinou-Rizos S.
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Bazhanov-Stroganov (4-simplex) maps are set-theoretical solutions to the 4-simplex equation, namely the fourth member of the family of n-simplex equations, which are fundamental equations of mathematical physics. In this paper, we develop a method for constructing Bazhanov-Stroganov maps as extensions of tetrahedron maps which are set-theoretical solutions to the Zamolodchikov tetrahedron (3-simplex) equation. We employ this method to construct birarional Bazhanov-Stroganov maps which boil down to the famous electric network and Hirota tetrahedron maps at a certain limit.
Partition functions for U(1) vectors and phases of scalar QED in AdS
Authors: Kakkar Astha , Sarkar Swarnendu
Published: June 2024

Abstract

We extend the computation of one-loop partition function in AdSd+1 using the method in [23] and [24] for scalars and fermions to the case of U(1) vectors. This method utilizes the eigenfunctions of the AdS Laplacian for vectors. For finite temperature, the partition function is obtained by generalizing the eigenfunctions so that they are invariant under the quotient group action, which defines the thermal AdS spaces. The results obtained match with those available in the literature. As an application of these results, we then analyze phases of scalar QED theories at one-loop in d = 2, 3. We do this first as functions of AdS radius at zero temperature showing that the results reduce to those in flat space in the large AdS radius limit. Thereafter the phases are studied as a function of the scalar mass and temperature. We also derive effective potentials and study phases of the scalar QED theories with N scalars.
Extended doubled structures of algebroids for gauged double field theory
Authors: Mori Haruka , Sasaki Shin
Published: June 2024

Abstract

We study an analogue of the Drinfel’d double for algebroids associated with the O(D, D + n) gauged double field theory (DFT). We show that algebroids defined by the twisted C-bracket in the gauged DFT are built out of a direct sum of three (twisted) Lie algebroids. They exhibit a “tripled”, which we call the extended double, rather than the “doubled” structure appearing in (ungauged) DFT. We find that the compatibilities of the extended doubled structure result not only in the strong constraint but also the additional condition in the gauged DFT. We establish a geometrical implementation of these structures in a (2D + n)-dimensional product manifold and examine the relations to the generalized geometry for heterotic string theories and non-Abelian gauge symmetries in DFT.
EEF1B2 regulates bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells bone-fat balance via Wnt/β-catenin signaling
Authors: Feng Shuhao , Feng Zihang , Wei Yiran , Zheng Xiaoyong , Deng Zhonghao , Liao Zheting , Jin Yangchen , Chen Ruge , Zhao Liang
Published: June 2024

The pathological advancement of osteoporosis is caused by the uneven development of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) in terms of osteogenesis and adipogenesis. While the role of EEF1B2 in intellectual disability and tumorigenesis is well established, its function in the bone-fat switch of BMSCs is still largely unexplored. During the process of osteogenic differentiation, we observed an increase in the expression of EEF1B2, while a decrease in its expression was noted during adipogenesis. Suppression of EEF1B2 hindered the process of osteogenic differentiation and mineralization while promoting adipogenic differentiation. On the contrary, overexpression of EEF1B2 enhanced osteogenesis and strongly inhibited adipogenesis. Furthermore, the excessive expression of EEF1B2 in the tibias has the potential to mitigate bone loss and decrease marrow adiposity in mice with osteoporosis. In terms of mechanism, the suppression of β-catenin activity occurred when EEF1B2 function was suppressed during osteogenesis. Our collective findings indicate that EEF1B2 functions as a regulator, influencing the differentiation of BMSCs and maintaining a balance between bone and fat. Our finding highlights its potential as a therapeutic target for diseases related to bone metabolism.
The novel function of an orphan pheromone receptor reveals the sensory specializations of two potential distinct types of sex pheromones in noctuid moth
Authors: Wang Chenrui , Cao Song , Shi Chen , Guo Mengbo , Sun Dongdong , Liu Zheyi , Xiu Peng , Wang Yong , Wang Guirong , Liu Yang
Published: June 2024

Sex pheromones play crucial role in mating behavior of moths, involving intricate recognition mechanisms. While insect chemical biology has extensively studied type I pheromones, type II pheromones remain largely unexplored. This study focused on Helicoverpa armigera, a representative species of noctuid moth, aiming to reassess its sex pheromone composition. Our research unveiled two previously unidentified candidate type II sex pheromones—3Z,6Z,9Z-21:H and 3Z,6Z,9Z-23:H—in H. armigera. Furthermore, we identified HarmOR11 as an orphan pheromone receptor of 3Z,6Z,9Z-21:H. Through AlphaFold2 structural prediction, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations, we elucidated the structural basis and key residues governing the sensory nuances of both type I and type II pheromone receptors, particularly HarmOR11 and HarmOR13. This study not only reveals the presence and recognition of candidate type II pheromones in a noctuid moth, but also establishes a comprehensive structural framework for PRs, contributing to the understanding of connections between evolutionary adaptations and the emergence of new pheromone types.
Invariant measures from locally bounded orbits
Authors: López-Martínez Antoni
Published: June 2024

Motivated by recent investigations of Sophie Grivaux and Étienne Matheron on the existence of invariant measures in Linear Dynamics, we introduce the concept of locally bounded orbit for a continuous linear operator $$T:X\longrightarrow X$$

T
:
X
⟶
X

acting on a Fréchet space X, and we use this new notion to construct (non-trivial) T-invariant probability Borel measures on $$(X,\mathscr {B}(X))$$

(
X
,
B
(
X
)
)

.
Comprehensive investigations of 2-phenylethanol production by the filamentous fungus Annulohypoxylon stygium
Authors: Tong Qianwen , Yang Lizhi , Zhang Jinxiang , Zhang Yue , Jiang Yuji , Liu Xinrui , Deng Youjin
Published: June 2024

2-Phenylethanol (2-PE) is an aromatic compound with a rose-like fragrance that is widely used in food and other industries. Yeasts have been implicated in the biosynthesis of 2-PE; however, few studies have reported the involvement of filamentous fungi. In this study, 2-PE was detected in Annulohypoxylon stygium mycelia grown in both potato dextrose broth (PDB) and sawdust medium. Among the 27 A. stygium strains investigated in this study, the strain “Jinjiling” (strain S20) showed the highest production of 2-PE. Under optimal culture conditions, the concentration of 2-PE was 2.33 g/L. Each of the key genes in Saccharomyces cerevisiae shikimate and Ehrlich pathways was found to have homologous genes in A. stygium. Upon the addition of L-phenylalanine to the medium, there was an upregulation of all key genes in the Ehrlich pathway of A. stygium, which was consistent with that of S. cerevisiae. A. stygium as an associated fungus provides nutrition for the growth of Tremella fuciformis and most spent composts of T. fuciformis contain pure A. stygium mycelium. Our study on the high-efficiency biosynthesis of 2-PE in A. stygium offers a sustainable solution by utilizing the spent compost of T. fuciformis and provides an alternative option for the production of natural 2-PE.

Key points

• Annulohypoxylon stygium can produce high concentration of 2-phenylethanol.

• The pathways of 2-PE biosynthesis in Annulohypoxylon stygium were analyzed.

• Spent compost of Tremella fuciformis is a potential source for 2-phenylethanol.
CDC48A, an interactor of WOX2, is required for embryonic patterning in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Gong Wen , Bak Deniz Tiambeng , Wendrich Jos R. , Weijers Dolf , Laux Thomas
Published: June 2024

Key message

Interactor of WOX2, CDC48A, is crucial for early embryo patterning and shoot meristem stem cell initiation, but is not required for WOX2 protein turnover or subcellular localization.

During Arabidopsis embryo patterning, the WUSCHEL HOMEOBOX 2 (WOX2) transcription factor is a major regulator of protoderm and shoot stem cell initiation. Loss of WOX2 function results in aberrant protodermal cell divisions and, redundantly with its paralogs WOX1, WOX3, and WOX5, compromised shoot meristem formation. To elucidate the molecular basis for WOX2 function, we searched for protein interactors by IP–MS/MS from WOX2-overexpression roots displaying reprogramming toward shoot-like cell fates. Here, we report that WOX2 directly interacts with the type II AAA ATPase molecular chaperone CELL DIVISION CYCLE 48A (CDC48A). We confirmed this interaction with bimolecular fluorescence complementation and co-immunoprecipitation and found that both proteins co-localize in the nucleus. We show that CDC48A loss of function results in protoderm and shoot meristem stem cell initiation defects similar to WOX2 loss of function. We also provide evidence that CDC48A promotes WOX2 activity independently of proteolysis or the regulation of nuclear localization, common mechanisms of CDC48A function in other processes. Our results point to a new role of CDC48A in potentiating WOX2 function during early embryo patterning.
Responses of Ethylene Emission, Abscission, and Fruit Quality to the Application of ACC as a Chemical Thinner in ‘Flatbeauti’ Peach
Authors: Torres Estanis , Caimel David , Asín Luís
Published: June 2024

Peach (Prunus persica (L.) Batsch) trees are prone to heavy cropping, but crop load management options are limited. 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC) has been suggested to reduce crop load and improve fruit quality in peaches, but many questions remain concerning the role of endogenous ethylene in the abscission response and other side effects. Here, the use of ACC as a chemical thinner in peach trees was studied at different rates (350, 500, and 750 mg L−1) and timings [at full bloom (FB) and after petal fall (AP) when the fruit was approximately 15–20 mm in diameter] by comparing the results to those of an untreated control and a hand-thinning treatment as a reference. The abscission response and ethylene emission were related to the ACC concentration. ACC-induced ethylene production, as well as some degree of defoliation, was time-dependent, with the highest ethylene emission peaks and the lowest defoliation degree occurring when ACC was applied at FB. On the other hand, the intra-annual differences in the abscission response between the FBs and APs varied depending on the season. AP-treated fruits produced more endogenous ethylene than did untreated fruits up to harvest, which could have influenced fruit color. Finally, our results indicate that ACC in the range of 500 and 350 mg L−1 can be used in ‘Flatbeauti’ peaches at FB and AP, respectively, to induce adequate levels of fruit crop load without or with minor undesired effects.
Gasotransmitters and noble gases in cardioprotection: unraveling molecular pathways for future therapeutic strategies
Authors: Pagliaro Pasquale , Weber Nina C. , Femminò Saveria , Alloatti Giuseppe , Penna Claudia
Published: June 2024

Despite recent progress, ischemic heart disease poses a persistent global challenge, driving significant morbidity and mortality. The pursuit of therapeutic solutions has led to the emergence of strategies such as ischemic preconditioning, postconditioning, and remote conditioning to shield the heart from myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (MIRI). These ischemic conditioning approaches, applied before, after, or at a distance from the affected organ, inspire future therapeutic strategies, including pharmacological conditioning. Gasotransmitters, comprising nitric oxide, hydrogen sulfide, sulfur dioxide, and carbon monoxide, play pivotal roles in physiological and pathological processes, exhibiting shared features such as smooth muscle relaxation, antiapoptotic effects, and anti-inflammatory properties. Despite potential risks at high concentrations, physiological levels of gasotransmitters induce vasorelaxation and promote cardioprotective effects. Noble gases, notably argon, helium, and xenon, exhibit organ-protective properties by reducing cell death, minimizing infarct size, and enhancing functional recovery in post-ischemic organs. The protective role of noble gases appears to hinge on their modulation of molecular pathways governing cell survival, leading to both pro- and antiapoptotic effects. Among noble gases, helium and xenon emerge as particularly promising in the field of cardioprotection. This overview synthesizes our current understanding of the roles played by gasotransmitters and noble gases in the context of MIRI and cardioprotection. In addition, we underscore potential future developments involving the utilization of noble gases and gasotransmitter donor molecules in advancing cardioprotective strategies.
Vascular feature identification in actinic keratosis grades I-III using dynamic optical coherence tomography with automated, quantitative analysis
Authors: Fredman Gabriella , Wiegell Stine R. , Haedersdal Merete , Untracht Gavrielle R.
Published: June 2024

Clinical grading of actinic keratosis (AK) is based on skin surface features, while subclinical alterations are not taken into consideration. Dynamic optical coherence tomography (D-OCT) enables quantification of the skin´s vasculature, potentially helpful to improve the link between clinical and subclinical features. We aimed to compare microvascular characteristics across AK grades using D-OCT with automated vascular analysis. This explorative study examined AK and photodamaged skin (PD) on the face or scalp. AKs were clinically graded according to the Olsen Classification scheme before D-OCT assessment. Using an open-source software tool, the OCT angiographic analyzer (OCTAVA), we quantified vascular network features, including total and mean vessel length, mean vessel diameter, vessel area density (VAD), branchpoint density (BD), and mean tortuosity from enface maximum intensity projection images. Additionally, we performed subregional analyses on selected scans to overcome challenges associated with imaging through hyperkeratosis (each lesion group; n = 18). Our study included 45 patients with a total of 205 AKs; 93 grade I lesions, 65 grade II, 47 grade III and 89 areas with PD skin. We found that all AK grades were more extensively vascularized relative to PD, as shown by greater total vessel length and VAD (p ≤ 0.009). Moreover, AKs displayed a disorganized vascular network, with higher BD in AK I-II (p < 0.001), and mean tortuosity in AK II-III (p ≤ 0.001) than in PD. Vascularization also increased with AK grade, showing significantly greater total vessel length in AK III than AK I (p = 0.029). Microvascular quantification of AK unveiled subclinical, quantitative differences among AK grades I-III and PD skin. D-OCT-based microvascular assessment may serve as a supplement to clinical AK grading, potentially raising perspectives to improve management strategies.
Pyoderma gangrenosum, acne, and suppurative hidradenitis (PASH) syndrome: a single-institution case series with a focus on management
Authors: Yan Allison , Gallardo Matthew , Savu Andrei , Kaffenberger Benjamin
Published: June 2024

Background

Pyoderma gangrenosum, acne, and suppurative hidradenitis (PASH) syndrome is a rare condition characterized by clinical features of all three dermatologic conditions. The management of PASH syndrome is difficult, with no consensus on treatment guidelines. Since PASH syndrome can increase morbidity and adversely impact quality of life, better characterization of effective therapies is needed.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted to identify all patients with pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) treated at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center between 2015 and 2021. PG diagnosis was confirmed via PARACELSUS score. Subsequent chart review identified eight patients with concomitant hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) and acne who were clinically diagnosed with PASH syndrome.

Results

Eight patients were clinically diagnosed with PASH syndrome based on their clinical presentation at our institution. Seven patients had failed some type of medical therapy prior to presentation, including topical corticosteroids, oral corticosteroids, oral antibiotics, and biologics. One patient had also tried surgical drainage at an outside institution. Six patients were effectively treated with biologics, usually in combination with other therapies. One patient experienced improvement of her skin lesions after diagnosis and treatment of her underlying hematologic malignancy.

Conclusions

Medical management with biologics in combination with corticosteroids and/or antibiotics was effective in the management of most patients. Diagnosis and treatment of an underlying condition should be prioritized in refractory cases. If workup is negative, surgical management may be considered. Further investigation with a greater number of patients is required to develop management guidelines for PASH syndrome.
Intralesional methotrexate versus 5-flurouracil in the treatment of keratoacanthoma
Authors: Nofal Ahmad , Alakad Rania , Wahid Reham , Hoseiny Heba Allah Mohamed
Published: June 2024

Background

Keratoacanthoma (KA) is a benign neoplasm that affects mainly photodamaged skin. It is locally destructive and may rarely spread. Surgery is not always suitable and usually disfiguring. Thus, non-operative modalities represent good alternatives.

Objective

To assess and compare the efficacy of intralesional methotrexate (MTX) and 5-flurouracil (5-FU) in the treatment of KA.

Patients and methods

Randomized controlled trial included 20 patients with biopsy proven KA divided into 2 equal groups; group (A) received intralesional MTX, 25 mg/ml and group (B) received intralesional 5-FU, 50 mg/ml every 2 weeks till complete clearance or for a maximum 5 sessions.

Results

In the MTX group, complete clearance was observed in 7 patients (70%) compared to 8 patients (80%) in the 5- FU group with no statistically significant difference. However, the median number of injections needed to achieve complete response in the MTX group was 3 sessions versus only 2 sessions in the 5-FU group.

Limitations

the small sample size due to the relatively low incidence of KAs in our population.

Conclusion

Intralesional therapy is a good alternative to surgery in selected cases of KA. Both drugs showed comparable efficacy, but 5-FU may give faster results, hence increasing patient satisfaction and compliance.
Efficacy and safety of pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy (PIPAC) in ovarian cancer: a systematic review of current evidence
Authors: Pavone Matteo , Jochum Floriane , Lecointre Lise , Bizzarri Nicolò , Taliento Cristina , Restaino Stefano , Vizzielli Giuseppe , Fagotti Anna , Scambia Giovanni , Querleu Denis , Akladios Cherif
Published: June 2024

Background

PIPAC is a recent approach for intraperitoneal chemotherapy with promising results for patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis. A systematic review was conducted to assess current evidence on the efficacy and outcomes of PIPAC in patients affected by ovarian cancer.

Methods

The study adhered to the PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Google Scholar and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched up to December 2023. Studies reporting data on patients with OC treated with PIPAC were included in the qualitative analysis.

Results

Twenty-one studies and six clinical trials with 932 patients who underwent PIPAC treatment were identified. The reported first access failure was 4.9%. 89.8% of patients underwent one, 60.7% two and 40% received three or more PIPAC cycles. Pathological tumour response was objectivated in 13 studies. Intra-operative complications were reported in 11% of women and post-operative events in 11.5% with a 0.82% of procedure-related mortality. Quality of life scores have been consistently stable or improved during the treatment time. The percentage of OC patients who became amenable for cytoreductive surgery due to the good response after PIPAC treatment for palliative purposes is reported to be 2.3%.

Conclusion

The results showed that PIPAC is safe and effective for palliative purposes, with a good pathological tumour response and quality of life. Future prospective studies would be needed to explore the role of this treatment in different stages of the disease, investigating a paradigm shift towards the use of PIPAC with curative intent for women who are not eligible for primary cytoreductive surgery.

Graphical abstract
Associations of retinal neurovascular dysfunction with inner retinal layer thickness in non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Pemp Berthold , Palkovits Stefan , Sacu Stefan , Schmidl Doreen , Garhöfer Gerhard , Schmetterer Leopold , Schmidt-Erfurth Ursula
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Neurovascular coupling impairment and inner retinal layer thinning are early detectable retinal changes in diabetes, and both worsen during progression of diabetic retinopathy (DR). However, direct interactions between these features have not been investigated so far. Therefore, we aimed to analyze associations between the retinal functional hyperemic response to light stimulation and the thickness of individual neuroretinal layers in eyes with early non-proliferative DR.

Methods

Thirty patients with type 1 diabetes featuring mild (n = 15) or moderate (n = 15) non-proliferative DR and 14 healthy subjects were included in this cross-sectional study. Retinal vessel diameters were measured before and during illumination with flickering light using a dynamic vessel analyzer. Individual layer thickness in the macula was analyzed from spectral domain optical coherence tomography.

Results

Flicker light-induced vessel dilation was significantly reduced in patients compared to healthy controls (veins: 3.0% vs. 6.1%, p < 0.001; arteries: 1.3% vs. 5.1%, p = 0.005). Univariately, the response in retinal veins of diabetes patients correlated significantly with ganglion cell layer (GCL) thickness (r = 0.46, p = 0.010), and negatively with hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels (r=-0.41, p = 0.023) and age (r=-0.38, p = 0.037), but not with baseline diameters, glucose levels, or diabetes duration. In a multiple regression model only GCL thickness (p = 0.017, β = 0.42) and HbA1c (p = 0.045, β=-0.35) remained significantly associated with the vascular flicker light response.

Conclusion

The results indicate that thinner GCL and worse glycemic control both contribute to reduced retinal neurovascular coupling in patients with clinical signs of DR. Progression of neurovascular dysfunction in DR might be related to structural degeneration of the neurovascular complex in the inner retina.
Anatomical and molecular insights into the antennal gland of the giant freshwater prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii
Authors: Kruangkum Thanapong , Jaiboon Kornchanok , Pakawanit Phakkhananan , Saetan Jirawat , Pudgerd Arnon , Wannapaiboon Suttipong , Chotwiwatthanakun Charoonroj , Cummins Scott F. , Sobhon Prasert , Vanichviriyakit Rapeepun
Published: June 2024

In this study, the complex organization of the AnG in the giant freshwater prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii was revealed using various techniques, including conventional histology, histochemistry, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray tomography. The results showed the diversity of cells in the AnG and the detailed organization of the labyrinth’s tubule into four radiated areas from the central to peripheral zones. The study also demonstrated the expression of some vertebrate kidney-associated homolog genes, aquaporin (AQP), solute carrier family 22 (SLC-22), nephrin, and uromodulin, in the AnG by qPCR. The result of in situ hybridization further showed the localization of SLC-22 and AQP transcript in the bladder and labyrinth’s epithelium, specifically in regions 2, 3, and 4. Additionally, the study revealed neuropeptide expressions in the AnG by qPCR and in situ hybridization, i.e., crustacean hyperglycemic hormone (CHH) and molt inhibiting hormone (MIH), implying that the AnG may have a role in hormone production. Moreover, male and female prawns exhibited different levels of AQP, SLC-22, nephrin, and CHH expressions during the premolt and intermolt stages, suggesting a crucial role relevant to the molting stages. In conclusion, this study clarified the complex structure of the AnG in M. rosenbergii and demonstrated for the first time the expression of vertebrate kidney-associated genes and the possible endocrine role of the AnG. Further investigation is needed to clarify the role of these genes, particularly during ecdysis. The implications of these findings could significantly advance our understanding of the AnG in decapod crustaceans.
Modellbasierte Rohmehlrezeptsteuerung für eine CO2-optimierte Klinkerproduktion
Authors: Pöllabauer Florian , Gröll Christine , Köck Wolfgang , Flachberger Helmut
Published: June 2024

Die Zementindustrie steht vor der Herausforderung, ihren CO2-Fußabdruck zu reduzieren. Eine Möglichkeit dazu besteht im verstärkten Einsatz von CO2-armen Ersatzrohstoffen in der Klinkerproduktion. Dieser Artikel beschreibt die Entwicklung einer innovativen Prozesssteuerung zur Optimierung der Rohmehlproduktion im Zementwerk Wietersdorf der Alpacem Zement Austria GmbH. Durch den Einsatz von Inline-Analysetechnologien und einem Optimierungsalgorithmus können verschiedene Qualitäten von Ersatzrohstoffen gleichzeitig eingesetzt werden, um die CO2-Emissionen nachhaltig zu minimieren. Das Tool befindet sich derzeit in der Testphase und hat das Potenzial, die Produktgleichmäßigkeit bei gleichzeitiger Erhöhung der Ersatzrohstoffrate zu optimieren und dadurch den CO2-Fußabdruck zu reduzieren.
Piloting a new cross-sector model of care to support parents with cancer: feasibility and acceptability of the Parent Support Worker role
Authors: Skrabal Ross X. , Konings S. , Schiena E. , Phipps-Nelson J. , Wang Y. , Hodgson F. , Patterson P. , McDonald F. E. J.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

A new Parent Support Worker (PSW) service was piloted in three Australian hospitals. This study assesses the feasibility and acceptability (including preliminary effectiveness) of the service in supporting cancer patients with children.

Methods

A multi-site, mixed-methods study collected quantitative and qualitative data on the effectiveness of the service (pre post-test, n = 36), qualitative and quantitative data on acceptability of the service (survey, n = 43), and qualitative data on acceptability (semi-structured interviews, n = 13). Feasibility was assessed through rates of service uptake amongst referred parents.

Results

Of 1133 parents referred, 810 (71%) accepted to receive the service, suggesting high interest in PSW support. Interviewees likewise reported that the service was accessible and facilitated further referrals, indicating good feasibility. Surveys completed three months after accessing PSW support showed high acceptability and satisfaction. Additionally, there was preliminary evidence of service impacts: parents’ distress, parenting concerns, parenting efficacy, and stress about situations of concern improved significantly from pre- to post-service (all p < 0.005). Interviewees further described how their emotional coping and confidence to support and communicate with their children had improved through contact with the service.

Conclusion

The PSW service, integrated into a novel cross-sector model of care, showed to be feasible and acceptable to parent patients and their partners and improved psychological and parenting outcomes. The study suggests refinements to the service and the need for future larger studies to explore the effectiveness of the service in improving parents’ outcomes. This study complements previous evidence on the implementation of the PSW service in hospitals.
Butterfly pollination in Platycoryne (Orchidaceae): evidence for a key pollinator shift in the large Habenaria clade
Authors: Johnson Steven D.
Published: June 2024

Shifts between pollinator functional groups can explain major changes in floral phenotype. I document a novel case of butterfly pollination in Platycoryne, an African genus that is phylogenetically embedded in the very large Habenaria clade in the Orchidaceae. Most Habenaria species have green or white flowers and many of these have been shown to be pollinated by moths, but my observations of the orange-flowered species Platycorynus mediocris in south-central Africa showed that it is pollinated diurnally by butterflies. The nectar-producing spurs of this species are c. 15 mm in length and closely match the tongue lengths of nymphalid and pierid butterflies that visit the flowers. The rostellum arms flank the spur entrance and place sickle-shaped pollinaria on the eyes or palps of the butterflies. In contrast to the highly scented flowers of moth-pollinated Habenaria species, the flowers of P. mediocris emit very little scent. Anecdotal observations indicate that several other Platycoryne species with orange flowers are also pollinated by butterflies. I conclude that the flower colouration (orange without UV reflectance) and low emission of scent in P. mediocris reflect an important historical shift to butterfly pollination in African members of the Habenaria clade.
Radiofrequency thermocoagulation as a treatment for hemifacial spasm: long-term follow-up and management of recurrences
Authors: Palomäki Paula , Sairanen Tiina , Niemelä Mika , Marjamaa Johan
Published: June 2024

Background

Radiofrequency thermocoagulation (RFT) is a treatment used to relieve symptoms of cranial nerve disorders. The current study is the first to describe the results of hemifacial spasm (HFS) patients with a history of repeated RFT in the second-largest consecutive single-center patient series with long-term follow-up.

Method

This retrospective study was conducted in the largest hospital district in Finland (Helsinki and Uusimaa). Consecutive HFS patients who had an RFT to treat HFS in the Hospital District of Helsinki and Uusimaa between 2009-2020 were included.

Results

Eighteen patients with 53 RFTs were identified from the medical records. 11 (61 %) patients had repeated RFTs, and the mean number of RFTs per patient was 3.33 (3.29 SD). The mean follow-up was 5.54 years (7.5 SD). 12 (67 %) patients had had microvascular decompression (MVD) before RFT.

Patients were satisfied with the results after 87 % of RFTs. Relief of the twitching of the face lasted 11.27 months (11.94 SD). All patients had postoperatively transient facial paresis. Postoperative paresis lasted a mean of 6.47 months (6.80 SD). The depth of paresis was postoperatively typically moderate (36.54 %, House Brackmann III). 23.08 % had mild paresis (House-Brackmann II), 23.08 % had moderately severe dysfunction (House-Brackmann IV), 9.62 % had severe dysfunction, and 7.69 % had total paralysis of the facial muscles (House-Brackmann VI). Duration of relief in the face twitching (p 0.002) and temperature at the final coagulation point (p 0.004) were statistically significant predictors of satisfaction with the RFT results.

Conclusions

RFT can be used to treat recurrences of HFS repeatedly. It provides symptom relief for around 11 months, lasting four times longer than with botulinum toxin injections. Patients are satisfied, although an RFT produces transient, sometimes even severe, facial paresis.
Partner’s problematic social media use, woman’s time perspective, and prenatal depression
Authors: Sobol Małgorzata , Błachnio Agata , Hryhorchuk Inna , Plucinska Elzbieta , Stasiniewicz Janusz , Przepiórka Aneta
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Using social media can have negative consequences. The present study aimed to examine how the partner’s problematic social media use (SMU) was related to the pregnant woman’s time perspective and prenatal depression.

Methods

The study included 30 pregnant women and their 30 male partners. Research was conducted twice: in the first and third trimesters of pregnancy. Women completed online measures: the Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory Fatalism scale (ZTPI-Fat), the Dark Future Scale (DFS), and the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS). Men completed the online Social Media Addiction Questionnaire (SMAQ).

Results

The woman’s depressive symptoms were positively associated with fatalism (r = .35, p < .01 in the first trimester; r = .49, p < .01 in the third trimester) and future negative perspective (r = .33, p < .05 in the first trimester; r = .77, p < .001 in the third trimester). Moreover, in the third trimester, women’s depressive symptoms correlated positively with their partners’ problematic SMU (r = .36, p < .05) and negatively with their financial situation (r = − .37, p < .05). The results of the mediation analyses showed that the more intensive the partner’s problematic SMU, the stronger the pregnant woman’s fatalism and, consequently, the stronger her future negative perspective, resulting in more severe prenatal depressive symptoms in the third trimester (indirect effect: β = .16, SE = .09, 95% CI [.021, .393]).

Conclusions

Our findings show how important the behavior of the partner is for the mental health of the pregnant woman. The results suggest a possible mechanism explaining the relationship between the partner’s problematic SMU and the woman’s prenatal depressive symptoms. This mechanism probably consists in increasing the woman’s sense of helplessness and loss of control over life, which leads to intensified future anxiety and, consequently, to depressive symptoms. Moreover, we interpreted the results to mean that the partner’s time-consuming preoccupation with SMU may make the woman feel emotionally neglected. The lack of support from the partner may give rise to feelings of powerlessness, and may cause depressive symptoms.
Less-is-more: auditory strategies for reduced reality
Authors: Grimshaw-Aagaard Mark , Walther-Hansen Mads
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we propose a reduced reality [RR] concept of less-is-more that virtual reality [VR] designers can use to create technological frameworks which reduce sensory overload and allow for better concentration and focus, less stress, and novel scenarios. We question the approach taken by scholars in the field of extended reality [XR] research, where the focus is typically to design and use technology that adds sensory information to the user’s perceptual field, and we address some of the confusion related to the typical uses of the term reality. To address the latter terminological muddle, we define reality as our conscious experience of the environment, an emergent perception, and we use this definition as the basis for a discussion on the role of sound in balancing sensory information and in the construction of less cluttered and less stressful perceptual environments. We further discuss current auditory strategies that reduce and alter auditory stimuli, and we suggest potential future strategies for RR that use crossmodal design approaches, masking, and filtering techniques.