bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Considerations Related to Active Stress Management in Deep Mining
Authors: Ladinig Tobias
Published: September 2023

The objective of mining is to supply society with mineral and therefore to extract mineral deposits safely and economically, and as completely as possible. As shallow deposits are becoming more and more depleted and as the mineral demand is rising, mining has to advance to greater depths or more challenging mining environments. Operational and technical challenges arise consequently. The different challenges are discussed briefly, and it is shown that in particular the importance of rock mechanics increases because the resulting stress and energy changes can cause rock pressure phenomena and rock pressure problems. The intensity of rock pressure phenomena and rock pressure problems is a function of several parameters, of which the prevailing stress magnitudes and the rock mass strength are central. Whilst rock pressure phenomena are manageable and do not endanger the objectives of mineral extraction, rock pressure problems threaten the objective of mineral extraction and may in extreme cases prevent the continuation of an operation. As the stress magnitudes rise with depths, but the rock mass strength does generally not increase with depths, the importance of rock pressure control increases with depth. To control the rock pressure, two different strategies, a passive and an active strategy, can be distinguished. The two strategies are discussed. Despite the advantages offered by the active strategy, the passive strategy is still dominantly applied. Reasons for this dominance are identified and discussed. To facilitate the application of the active strategy, a stress management concept is proposed. Finally, the requirements for a wider implementation of an active stress management strategy are briefly discussed.
Diagnose und Therapie glomerulärer Erkrankungen mit einem membranoproliferativen Läsionsmuster (MPGN) – 2023
Authors: Rudnicki Michael , Windpessl Martin , Eller Kathrin , Odler Balazs , Gauckler Philipp , Neumann Irmgard , Zitt Emanuel , Regele Heinz , Kronbichler Andreas , Lhotta Karl , Säemann Marcus D.
Published: September 2023

Die membranoproliferative Glomerulonephritis (MPGN) repräsentiert eine heterogene Gruppe von Erkrankungen. Das gemeinsame Merkmal eines membranoproliferativen Läsionsmusters in der Histologie der Nierenbiopsie kann sowohl idiopathisch/primär auftreten, als auch – wesentlich häufiger – eine sekundäre Ursache haben. Die historische licht- und elektronenmikroskopische Einteilung in MPGN Typ I bis III wurde weitgehend verlassen und in den letzten Jahren durch eine Pathogenese-orientierte Einteilung ersetzt. Von einer Immunkomplex-GN (IK-GN) spricht man beim Vorliegen einer MPGN mit C1q, C3 und/oder C4 Ablagerungen, während eine MPGN mit dominanten C3-Ablagerungen als C3-Glomerulopathie (C3G) bezeichnet wird. Diese wird wiederum in eine C3-Glomerulonephritis (C3GN) und eine dense-deposit disease (DDD) eingeteilt. Diese Diagnosen können nur durch eine Nierenbiopsie gestellt werden. Mögliche Ursachen für eine MPGN sind chronische Infektionen (v. a. Hepatitis B und C, bakterielle Infektionen, Infektionen mit Protozoen). Autoimmunerkrankungen (v. a. Lupus, rheumatoide Arthritis) oder Malignome (v. a. hämatologische maligne Erkrankungen). Insbesondere im Falle einer C3G wird auch eine umfassende Abklärung des Komplementystems empfohlen. Therapeutische Entscheidungen sind aufgrund der niedrigen Inzidenz und des heterogenen klinischen Erscheinungsbildes einer MPGN individuell zu treffen, eine optimale generelle Therapie ist unbekannt. Im Falle einer identifizierten Ursache einer MPGN wird prinzipiell empfohlen diese zu behandeln, ebenso sollte die supportive Therapie, wie auch bei anderen Glomerulonephritiden optimiert werden. Bei anhaltender signifikanter Proteinurie und einer eGFR > 30 ml/min/1,73 m2 wird eine Therapie mit systemischen Steroiden und Mycophenolat Mofetil empfohlen. Weitere Therapieoptionen sind Rituximab und Eculizumab. Eine rapid-progressive MPGN sollte wie eine ANCA-assoziierte Vaskulitis therapiert werden. Die Rekurrenzraten nach einer Nierentransplantation sind sehr hoch und therapeutisch herausfordernd.
Did the COVID-19 pandemic impact the dietary intake of individuals living with and beyond breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer and who were most likely to experience change?
Authors: Taylor Katie S. , Beeken Rebecca J. , Fisher Abi , Lally Phillippa
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The present work investigated dietary changes amongst individuals living with and beyond cancer (LWBC) from before to during the pandemic. To identify those at greatest risk of unhealthy changes, it was further examined whether patterns varied by sociodemographic, health-related, and COVID-19-related characteristics.

Methods

This longitudinal cohort study analysed data from 716 individuals LWBC participating in the Advancing Survivorship Cancer Outcomes Trial (ASCOT). Using data provided before and during the pandemic, changes in fruit and vegetable, snack, and alcohol intake were tested using mixed-effect regression models.

Results

Fruit and vegetable (95%CI: − 0.30; − 0.04) and alcohol consumption (95%CI: − 1.25; − 0.31) decreased, whilst snacking increased (95%CI: 0.19; 0.53). Women and individuals with limited social contact were more likely to reduce fruit and vegetable intake during the pandemic. Women and individuals with poorer sleep quality, limited social contact, and shielding requirements and without higher education were more likely to increase snacking during the pandemic. Individuals with poorer sleep quality, poorer mental health, and regular social contact were more likely to decrease alcohol consumption during the pandemic.

Conclusions

Findings suggest decreased intake for fruit, vegetable, and alcohol consumption and increased snack intake in response to the pandemic amongst individuals LWBC. These changes appear to differ across various characteristics, suggesting the pandemic has not equally impacted everyone in this population. Findings highlight the need for targeted post-COVID strategies to support individuals LWBC most adversely affected by the pandemic, including women and socially isolated individuals. This encourages resources to be prioritised amongst these groups to prevent further negative impact of the pandemic. Whilst the findings are statistically significant, practically they appear less important. This is necessary to acknowledge when considering interventions and next steps.
Asymptomatic arbovirus and campylobacter infections in German travelers to Asia
Authors: Dammermann Werner , Haller Isabel-Elena , Singethan Katrin , Vinnemeier Christof D. , Hentschel Florian
Published: September 2023

The true risk for many travel diseases is unknown because most studies do not detect asymptomatic infections. In this study, we performed ELISA for dengue virus (DENV), chikungunya virus (CHIKV), Zika virus (ZIKV), hepatitis E virus (HEV), and Campylobacter jejuni on samples from 81 healthy Germans before and after they traveled to Asia. ELISA found five seroconversions for C. jejuni, two for DENV, one for ZIKV, and zero for HEV. For CHIKV, three subjects were positive before travel and negative afterwards. None had symptoms. These infections would have gone unnoticed by retrospective studies. Therefore, the risk for these infections may be higher than previously estimated.
Eris: efficiently measuring discord in multidimensional sources
Authors: Abelló Alberto , Cheney James
Published: September 2023

Data integration is a classical problem in databases, typically decomposed into schema matching, entity matching and data fusion. To solve the latter, it is mostly assumed that ground truth can be determined. However, in general, the data gathering processes in the different sources are imperfect and cannot provide an accurate merging of values. Thus, in the absence of ways to determine ground truth, it is important to at least quantify how far from being internally consistent a dataset is. Hence, we propose definitions of concordant data and define a discordance metric as a way of measuring disagreement to improve decision-making based on trustworthiness. We define the discord measurement problem of numerical attributes in which given a set of uncertain raw observations or aggregate results (such as case/hospitalization/death data relevant to COVID-19) and information on the alignment of different conceptualizations of the same reality (e.g., granularities or units), we wish to assess whether the different sources are concordant, or if not, use the discordance metric to quantify how discordant they are. We also define a set of algebraic operators to describe the alignments of different data sources with correctness guarantees, together with two alternative relational database implementations that reduce the problem to linear or quadratic programming. These are evaluated against both COVID-19 and synthetic data, and our experimental results show that discordance measurement can be performed efficiently in realistic situations.
A systematic review of the cost-effectiveness of interventions to increase cervical cancer screening among underserved women in Europe
Authors: Sun Li , Patel Shruti , Fiorina Camilla , Glass Audrey , Rochaix Lise ,   The CBIG-SCREEN Consortium, Bardou Marc , Andersen Berit , Kirkegaard Pia , Bøje Rikke Buus , Tranberg Mette , McKee Martin , Bell Sadie , Greenley Rachel , Rigby Samuel , Rossi Paolo Giorgi , Ghirottoo Luca , Bartolini Letizia , Auzzi Noemi , Mantellini Paola , Iorio Giusy , Bonvicini Laura , Lunet Nuno , Firmino-Machado João , Teixeira Margarida , Fernandes Ana , Amorim Mariana , Baía Inês , Mendes Romeu , Gouvinhas Cláudia , Uusküla Anneli , Tisler Anna , Baban Aadriana , Tăut Diana , Jiboc Nicoleta , Nicula Florian , Tolnai Alexandra , Moore Rebecca , Moore Vanessa , Basu Partha , Metcalfe Isabel Mosquera , Mensah Keitly , Lucas Eric , Todorova Irina , Panayotova Yulia , Kotzeva Tatyana , Ritchie David , Comesana Helena Ros , Mallafré-Larrosa Meritxel , Papi Ginevra , Dascher-Nadel Christiane , Foss Anna M. , Legood Rosa
Published: September 2023

Background

This study aimed to conduct a systematic review of the cost-effectiveness studies of interventions to increase cervical cancer screening uptake rates in underserved women in Europe.

Methods

A search of Embase, Medline, Global Health, PsychINFO, and NHS Economic Evaluation Database was conducted for studies published between January 2000 and September 2022. Studies were eligible if they analysed the cost-effectiveness of any interventions to improve participation in cervical cancer screening among underserved women of any age eligible to participate in cervical cancer screening in European countries, in any language. Study characteristics and cost-effectiveness results were summarised. Study quality was assessed using the Drummond Checklist, and methodological choices were further compared.

Results

The searches yielded 962 unique studies, with 17 of these (from twelve European countries) meeting the eligibility criteria for data extraction. All studies focused on underscreened women as an overarching group, with no identified studies focusing on specific subgroups of underserved women. Generally, self-HPV testing and reminder interventions were shown to be cost-effective to increase the uptake rates. There was also research showing that addressing access issues and adopting different screening modalities could be economically attractive in some settings, but the current evidence is insufficient due to the limited number of studies.

Conclusion

This systematic review has revealed a gap in the literature on the cost-effectiveness of interventions to improve uptake rates of cervical cancer screening through tailored provision for specific groups of underserved women.
Drug-facilitated sexual assault acceptance scale: construction and validation of a new scale in Spanish context
Authors: Recalde-Esnoz Irantzu , Prego-Meleiro Pablo , Montalvo Gemma , Del Castillo Héctor
Published: September 2023

Aim

To construct and validate a scale to measure the degree of acceptance of the population towards drug-facilitated sexual assault.

Subject and methods

The drug-facilitated sexual assault acceptance scale was validated in a sample of secondary school students (n = 485). For this purpose, the sample was divided into two subsamples (n1 = 240; n2 = 245), and exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis were applied to each of them. In addition, the reliability of the developed scale was analyzed using Cronbach's α.

Results

In the exploratory factor analysis, a scale of 15 items was obtained, divided into three factors: (a) Sexual Duty, (b) Drunken Effervescence, and (c) Sexual Success. Confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the results. In measuring the reliability of the scale, a Cronbach's α of 0.877 was obtained for the whole sample.

Conclusion

These results confirm the adequacy of the scale and its component items, reflecting its suitability for measuring the acceptability of drug-facilitated sexual assaults. Thus, the drug-facilitated sexual assault acceptance scale provides a valid and reliable instrument specifically designed to measure the acceptability of drug-facilitated sexual violence.
Numerical Investigation on the Head-on Quenching (HoQ) of Laminar Premixed Lean to Stoichiometric Ammonia–Hydrogen-Air Flames
Authors: Yu Chunkan , Cai Liming , Chi Cheng , Mashruk Syed , Valera-Medina Agustin , Maas Ulrich
Published: September 2023

The Head-on Quenching (HoQ) of laminar premixed ammonia–hydrogen-air flames under lean to stoichiometric condition is numerical investigated. Detailed chemistry including 34 reactive species and detailed multi-component transport model including thermal diffusion (Soret effect) are applied. The quenching distance is considered as a representative quantity for the HoQ process, and the influence of different system parameters on it has been investigated. These parameters involve fuel/air equivalence ratios, hydrogen content in gas mixture and pressure. It was found that an increase of quenching distance can be caused by a lower hydrogen addition and a leaner mixture condition. Furthermore, it was found that, regardless of the gas mixture, the quenching distance decreases monotonically with increasing pressure, obeying a power function with the exponent $$-$$
-
0.7. Moreover, numerical results show a relation between the quenching Peclet number and the dimensionless wall heat flux normalized by the flame power. Additionally, sensitivities of quenching distances with respect to the transport model, considering the heat loss in the wall and the chemical kinetics are studied.
Analysing potent biomarkers along phytochemicals for breast cancer therapy: an in silico approach
Authors: Shekar Nivruthi , Vuong Paton , Kaur Parwinder
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This research focused on the identification of herbal compounds as potential anti-cancer drugs, especially for breast cancer, that involved the recognition of Notch downstream targets NOTCH proteins (1–4) specifically expressed in breast tumours as biomarkers for prognosis, along with P53 tumour antigens, that were used as comparisons to check the sensitivity of the herbal bio-compounds.

Methods

After investigating phytochemical candidates, we employed an approach for computer-aided drug design and analysis to find strong breast cancer inhibitors. The present study utilized in silico analyses and protein docking techniques to characterize and rank selected bio-compounds for their efficiency in oncogenic inhibition for use in precise carcinomic cell growth control.

Results

Several of the identified phytocompounds found in herbs followed Lipinski’s Rule of Five and could be further investigated as potential medicinal molecules. Based on the Vina score obtained after the docking process, the active compound Epigallocatechin gallate in green tea with NOTCH (1–4) and P53 proteins showed promising results for future drug repurposing. The stiffness and binding stability of green tea pharmacological complexes were further elucidated by the molecular dynamic simulations carried out for the highest scoring phytochemical ligand complex.

Conclusion

The target-ligand complex of green tea active compound Epigallocatechin gallate with NOTCH (1–4) had the potential to become potent anti-breast cancer therapeutic candidates following further research involving wet-lab experiments.
Genomic analysis of geographical structure and diversity in the capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus)
Authors: Escoda Lídia , Piqué Josep , Paule Ladislav , Foulché Kévin , Menoni Emmanuel , Castresana Jose
Published: September 2023

The capercaillie is widespread throughout the boreal forests of northern Eurasia, but faces serious conservation challenges in the southernmost mountain ranges, where the populations are fragmented and some are critically endangered. To develop effective conservation strategies for these populations, it is essential to have information on both their genetic diversity and the genetic structure of the species. In this work, we used a reduced representation (ddRAD) genomic sequencing technique to analyze the genetic structure of the capercaillie across its European range and to assess the inbreeding levels in some of the most threatened populations. Our population structure analysis suggested the existence of two evolutionarily significant units, one formed by the two populations from the Iberian Peninsula and the other by the populations from the rest of Europe. Genetic diversity showed a significant decrease in the Iberian populations with respect to the other European populations. An isolation-with-migration model supported these results and allowed us to estimate the parameters of the population tree. The inbreeding coefficients estimated for the Iberian capercaillies showed relatively low levels in the Pyrenees. However, some individuals with very high inbreeding values were detected in the Cantabrian Mountains, suggesting that some of its subpopulations are substantially isolated. The population structure results and the genomic monitoring method we used to assess inbreeding levels may be crucial for the conservation and recovery of the most endangered capercaillie populations.
Data portability and interoperability: An E.U.-U.S. comparison
Authors: Rubinfeld Daniel
Published: September 2023

Data portability (the ability to transfer data without affecting its content) and interoperability (the ability to integrate two or more datasets) significantly affect the use of data, with important implications for antitrust policy. Allowing for improved data portability can facilitate interoperability, which, in turn, will enable consumers to switch services, thereby substantially increasing competition. However, barriers to data portability and interoperability can increase market power and be a major source of social inefficiency. This paper lays out the pros and cons of a move towards requirements of data interoperability and portability and contrasts the move in the U.S. and in the EU.
Pilot Study on Fire Effluent Condensate from Full Scale Residential Fires
Authors: Horn Gavin P. , Dow Nicholas W. , Neumann Danielle L.
Published: September 2023

Studies related to effluent produced by structure and vegetation fires often focus on gas phase or solid condensed phase, with limited treatment of liquid condensate generated as smoke cools to ambient. Recent post-fire human health concerns related to systemic human exposures to fire smoke and contamination of water distribution systems after wildland urban interface fires can be informed by understanding the chemical composition of liquid condensate resulting from large-scale fire experiments. In this pilot study, fire effluent (smoke) samples were continuously drawn from five different full-scale room-and-contents fire experiments, from which condensate was collected as the effluent cooled. Elevated concentrations of several volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including benzene, toluene, xylenes, styrene, naphthalene, and acetone along with several anions were detected in the acidic effluent. Many of these same VOCs have been identified in the air during firefighter safety experiments and in post-fire water distribution systems at levels that raise concern for human health. Benzene and naphthalene concentrations in the condensate were orders of magnitude above typical water quality standards and thus may directly contaminate large volumes of water. Peak benzene concentrations were similar to highest values reported from contaminated water distribution systems after wildfire events, though additional study is needed to understand the mechanisms by which this condensate may contribute to systemic contamination. Improved understanding of liquid condensate from fire effluent may be important to other areas of human and environmental health study, and some considerations are provided for future research.
Developing an artificial neural network controller for accelerating the hot deformation of the titanium aluminide TNM-B1 using reinforcement learning and finite element simulations
Authors: Stendal J. A. , Bambach M.
Published: September 2023

This work presents a framework for interfacing a reinforcement learning algorithm with a finite element model in order to develop an artificial neural network controller. The goal of the controller is accelerating the hot compression process of the titanium aluminide TNM-B1. The reinforcement learning algorithm interacts with the finite element model by exploring different die velocities and receiving input measurements (the velocity, displacement and force of the die) while collecting rewards if a constant stress state in the workpiece is achieved. Synthetic stochastic material behavior was used to simulate the observed variations in deformation behavior of TNM-B1. The same reinforcement learning setup and reward function was able to adapt to two example finite element environments; the compression of a simple cylinder workpiece between flat dies and the compression of a more complex bone workpiece between flat dies. The performance of the controller for the bone compression environment was comparatively reduced and less consistent. In addition, training times and training instability were significantly increased. Furthermore, the results suggest that the framework can be used as a tool to find process optimizations or alternative process routes. This work demonstrates the concept and provides the groundwork and fundamentals for transferring the method to a physical setup.
Polyhydroxyalkanoates Production from Cacao Fruit Liquid Residues Using a Native Bacillus megaterium Strain: Preliminary Study
Authors: Quintero-Silva Mabel J. , Suárez-Rodríguez Silvia J. , Gamboa-Suárez Maria A. , Blanco-Tirado Cristian , Combariza Marianny Y.
Published: September 2023

Cacao mucilage exudates (CMEs), byproducts of cacao beans fermentation, are effluents rich in sugars and low-molecular-weight organic acids. In this study, we utilized CMEs to formulate culture media for the biosynthesis of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) using a native Bacillus megaterium strain (B2). Our investigation followed the adaptation process of B2 to the CMEs-based media, and we closely monitored the development of the microorganism in terms of consumption of acids and sugars. Upon successful adaptation to the CMEs-based media, we transferred the strain to a 4-L batch bioreactor to evaluate the impact of operational variables on PHAs production. We examined the microorganisms’ yield, productivity, and growth kinetics using the CME-based media. Our results showed a product yield of 0.98 g PHA/g carbon source, with an accumulation percentage of 57% and a productivity increase of 33% compared to PHA produced from residual glycerol using the same microorganism. The biopolymer's structure was confirmed to be of a polyhydroxybutyrate homopolymer (PHB) type using various molecular characterization techniques, including Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS), infrared spectroscopy (IR), elemental composition (EC), ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–VIS), and thermal analysis (TGA, DSC).

Graphical Abstract
Is the Association of Procrastination and Age Mediated by Fear of Failure?
Authors: Danne Valerie , Gers Benedikt , Altgassen Mareike
Published: September 2023

Procrastination as an intentional delay of personal tasks in spite of anticipating negative consequences as a result is a widespread behavior, particularly among young adults. Previous research points to a reduction of procrastinatory tendencies across the adult lifespan; it is unclear to date which mechanisms underlie this decrease of procrastination behavior. Given evidence of fear of failure strongly influencing younger adults to postpone the start or delay of intended actions, as well as a possible decrease of fear of failure with increasing age, this study set out to explore a potential mediating effect of fear of failure on procrastination. A total of 197 participants, aged 18 to 90 years, took part in this study via online questionnaires. Statistical analyses showed that procrastination behavior decreased across the adult lifespan. Higher levels of fear of failure were linked to more procrastination behavior. A mediation analysis indicated that the relationship between age and procrastination was mediated by fear of failure. Results are discussed in terms of theoretical and practical implications.
Multiclass optimal classification trees with SVM-splits
Authors: Blanco Víctor , Japón Alberto , Puerto Justo
Published: September 2023

In this paper we present a novel mathematical optimization-based methodology to construct tree-shaped classification rules for multiclass instances. Our approach consists of building Classification Trees in which, except for the leaf nodes, the labels are temporarily left out and grouped into two classes by means of a SVM separating hyperplane. We provide a Mixed Integer Non Linear Programming formulation for the problem and report the results of an extended battery of computational experiments to assess the performance of our proposal with respect to other benchmarking classification methods.
Optical properties of periodically and aperiodically nanostructured p-n junctions
Authors: Taliashvili Z. , Łusakowska E , Chusnutdinow S. , Tavkhelidze A. , Jangidze L. , Sikharulidze S. , Gorji Nima E. , Chubinidze Z. , Melkadze R.
Published: September 2023

Recently, semiconductor nanograting layers have been introduced and their optical properties have been studied. Spectroscopic ellipsometry has shown that nanograting significantly modifies the dielectric function of c-Si layers. Photoluminescence spectroscopy reveals the emergence of an emission band with a remarkable peak structure. It has been observed that nanograting also alters the electronic and magnetic properties. In this study, we investigate the quantum efficiency and spectral response of Si p-n junctions fabricated using subwavelength grating layers and aperiodically nanostructured layers. Our findings indicate that the quantum efficiency and spectral response are enhanced in the case of nanograting p-n junctions compared to plain reference junctions. Aperiodically nanostructured junctions exhibit similar results to nanograting junctions. However, aperiodic nanostructuring is a more straightforward fabrication method and, consequently, more appealing for the solar cell industry.
Pore-level Ostwald ripening of CO2 foams at reservoir pressure
Authors: Benali Benyamine , Sæle Aleksandra , Liu Na , Fernø Martin A. , Alcorn Zachary Paul
Published: September 2023

The success of foam to reduce CO2 mobility in CO2 enhanced oil recovery and CO2 storage operations depends on foam stability in the reservoir. Foams are thermodynamically unstable, and factors such as surfactant adsorption, the presence of oil, and harsh reservoir conditions can cause the foam to destabilize. Pore-level foam coarsening and anti-coarsening mechanisms are not, however, fully understood and characterized at reservoir pressure. Using lab-on-a-chip technology, we probe dense (liquid) phase CO2 foam stability and the impact of Ostwald ripening at 100 bars using dynamic pore-scale observations. Three types of pore-level coarsening were observed: (1) large bubbles growing at the expense of small bubbles, at high aqueous phase saturations, unrestricted by the grains; (2) large bubbles growing at the expense of small bubbles, at low aqueous phase saturation, restricted by the grains; and (3) equilibration of plateau borders. Type 3 coarsening led to stable CO2 foam states eight times faster than type 2 and ten times faster than type 1. Anti-coarsening where CO2 diffused from a large bubble to a small bubble was also observed. The experimental results also compared stabilities of CO2 foam generated with hybrid nanoparticle–surfactant solution to CO2 foam stabilized by only surfactant or nanoparticles. Doubling the surfactant concentration from 2500 to 5000 ppm and adding 1500 ppm of nanoparticles to the 2500 ppm surfactant-based solution resulted in stronger foam, which resisted Ostwald ripening. Dynamic pore-scale observations of dense phase CO2 foam revealed gas diffusion from small, high-curvature bubbles to large, low-curvature bubbles and that the overall curvature of the bubbles decreased with time. Overall, this study provides in situ quantification of CO2 foam strength and stability dynamics at high-pressure conditions.

Article Highlights

A comprehensive laboratory investigation of CO2 foam stability and the impact of Ostwald ripening.

Pore-level foam coarsening and anti-coarsening mechanisms insights.
Staging of colorectal cancer using lipid biomarkers and machine learning
Authors: Krishnan Sanduru Thamarai , Winkler David , Creek Darren , Anderson Dovile , Kirana Chandra , Maddern Guy J , Fenix Kevin , Hauben Ehud , Rudd David , Voelcker Nicolas Hans
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide. Alteration in lipid metabolism and chemokine expression are considered hallmark characteristics of malignant progression and metastasis of CRC. Validated diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers are urgently needed to define molecular heterogeneous CRC clinical stages and subtypes, as liver dominant metastasis has poor survival outcomes.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to integrate lipid changes, concentrations of chemokines, such as platelet factor 4 and interleukin 8, and gene marker status measured in plasma samples, with clinical features from patients at different CRC stages or who had progressed to stage-IV colorectal liver metastasis (CLM).

Methods

High-resolution liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HR-LC-MS) was used to determine the levels of candidate lipid biomarkers in each CRC patient’s preoperative plasma samples and combined with chemokine, gene and clinical data. Machine learning models were then trained using known clinical outcomes to select biomarker combinations that best classify CRC stage and group.

Results

Bayesian neural net and multilinear regression-machine learning identified candidate biomarkers that classify CRC (stages I-III), CLM patients and control subjects (cancer-free or patients with polyps/diverticulitis), showing that integrating specific lipid signatures and chemokines (platelet factor-4 and interluken-8; IL-8) can improve prognostic accuracy. Gene marker status could contribute to disease prediction, but requires ubiquitous testing in clinical cohorts.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate that correlating multiple disease related features with lipid changes could improve CRC prognosis. The identified signatures could be used as reference biomarkers to predict CRC prognosis and classify stages, and monitor therapeutic intervention.
Pathogenicity of Phytophthora and Halophytophthora species on black alder and the host histological response
Authors: Vieites-Blanco Cristina , Colangelo Michele , Camarero J. Julio , Caballol Maria , García Breijo Francisco José , Štraus Dora , Oliva Jonàs
Published: September 2023

Riparian alder forests are threatened by Phytophthora across Europe. Comparative studies of the pathogenicity of Phytophthora species are crucial for developing effective management strategies. Although only a limited number of species, particularly P. × alni, lead to tree decline in natural environments, many species demonstrate pathogenicity in inoculation trials. Phytophthora species vary in their ability to infect different tissues, such as phloem and xylem, and trigger defence responses in the host through the formation of tyloses and callose. By comparing the histological responses of alder to various Phytophthora species, we can gain insights into the success of P. × alni and the potential damage that could be caused by other species. To investigate the defence strategies of black alder (Alnus glutinosa) against attack by Phytophthora and Halophytophthora species present in Catalonia (NE Spain), we conducted inoculation trials on saplings using nine potentially pathogenic species and compared the histological responses. Phytophthora × alni and P. plurivora were the most aggressive species followed by other exotic species such as P. × cambivora and P. cactorum. Phytophthora × alni and P. plurivora were equally damaging despite the higher prevalence of P. × alni in declining alders in natural settings. Although P. × alni mainly invaded the phloem, P. plurivora also invaded the xylem and triggered the production of tyloses. Histological analyses revealed a diverse range of plant responses to infection by Phytophthora species, providing a better understanding of their adaptability in natural environments compared with solely observing lesions. The low level of callose production in saplings inoculated with P. × alni compared with callose production in saplings inoculated with less pathogenic species suggests that P. × alni can evade recognition by the host and, hence, could partially explain its success.
Dependence in constrained Bayesian optimization
Authors: Zhang Shiqiang , Lee Robert M. , Shafei Behrang , Walz David , Misener Ruth
Published: September 2023

Constrained Bayesian optimization optimizes a black-box objective function subject to black-box constraints. For simplicity, most existing works assume that multiple constraints are independent. To ask, when and how does dependence between constraints help?, we remove this assumption and implement probability of feasibility with dependence (Dep-PoF) by applying multiple output Gaussian processes (MOGPs) as surrogate models and using expectation propagation to approximate the probabilities. We compare Dep-PoF and the independent version PoF. We propose two new acquisition functions incorporating Dep-PoF and test them on synthetic and practical benchmarks. Our results are largely negative: incorporating dependence between the constraints does not help much. Empirically, incorporating dependence between constraints may be useful if: (i) the solution is on the boundary of the feasible region(s) or (ii) the feasible set is very small. When these conditions are satisfied, the predictive covariance matrix from the MOGP may be poorly approximated by a diagonal matrix and the off-diagonal matrix elements may become important. Dep-PoF may apply to settings where (i) the constraints and their dependence are totally unknown and (ii) experiments are so expensive that any slightly better Bayesian optimization procedure is preferred. But, in most cases, Dep-PoF is indistinguishable from PoF.
Preserved Muscle Strength Despite Muscle Mass Loss After Bariatric Metabolic Surgery: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Jung Han Na , Kim Seon-Ok , Jung Chang Hee , Lee Woo Je , Kim Myung Jin , Cho Yun Kyung
Published: September 2023

Background

Contrary to the previously known concept of muscle mass decrease following bariatric metabolic surgery, changes in muscle strength have been poorly investigated in systematic reviews. In this meta-analysis, we evaluated changes in handgrip strength (HGS) and lean mass (LM) after undergoing bariatric metabolic surgery.

Methods

A systematic literature review using the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases was conducted in November 2022. Longitudinal studies reporting HGS change after bariatric metabolic surgery were eligible. Pooled estimates for changes in HGS, body mass index (BMI), LM, and fat mass (FM) were calculated. Changes from baseline to the point closest to 6 months postoperatively were analyzed in trials with multiple follow-up examinations. The risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklist.

Results

Three randomized controlled trials and seven prospective cohort studies involving 301 patients were included. Follow-up evaluations were conducted 6 months postoperatively in all trials except for two, whose follow-up visits were at 18 weeks and 12 months, respectively. Pooled analysis showed reduced BMI (− 10.8 kg/m2; 95% confidence interval: − 11.6 to − 9.9 kg/m2), LM (− 7.4 kg; − 9.3 to − 5.4 kg), and FM (− 22.3 kg; − 25.1 to − 19.6 kg) after bariatric metabolic surgery, whereas the change in HGS was not statistically significant (− 0.46 kg; − 1.76 to 0.84 kg).

Conclusion

Despite the decreased body composition parameters, including muscle mass, strength was not impaired after bariatric metabolic surgery; this indicates that bariatric metabolic surgery is an effective weight management intervention that does not compromise strength.

Graphical Abstract
Workplace Interventions for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Prevention—an Umbrella Review
Authors: Wnuk Katarzyna , Świtalski Jakub , Tatara Tomasz , Miazga Wojciech , Jopek Sylwia , Augustynowicz Anna , Religioni Urszula , Gujski Mariusz
Published: September 2023

Purpose of review

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic disease that may lead to severe complications. The main methods of preventing or delaying the onset of T2DM include lifestyle changes. The purpose of this study is to identify and evaluate the effectiveness of workplace interventions aimed at preventing type 2 diabetes. An umbrella review was conducted in accordance with the Cochrane Collaboration guidelines. Searches were performed in Medline (via PubMed), Embase (via OVID), and Cochrane Library databases. The quality assessment of the included studies was performed using the AMSTAR2 tool.

Recent findings

The final analysis included 7 studies. The majority (4 of 7) of the studies included in the review focused on workplace interventions based on the guidelines of the US Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) or other similar programs. The method of decreasing the risk of type 2 diabetes among employees are programs consisting of multiple approaches aimed at improving parameters associated with diabetes, i.e., body weight, and therefore BMI, reduction, and reducing blood glucose levels, as well as HbA1c levels through educational approach and lifestyle changes. The results of those studies point to multicomponent interventions as more effective than single-component interventions.

An effective workplace intervention aimed to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes among employees is a multicomponent program consisting of elements such as educational activities, interventions targeting dietary changes and increased physical activity.
Effects of Dietary Valine Chelated Zinc Supplementation on Growth Performance, Antioxidant Capacity, Immunity, and Intestine Health in Weaned Piglets
Authors: Zhang Tuan , Zhang Nan , Peng Shuyu , Zhang Yawei , Wang Huakai , Huang Shiyu , Zhu Min , Ma Yongxi
Published: September 2023

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary valine chelated zinc (ZnVal) supplementation on growth performance, antioxidant capacity, immunity, and intestine health in weaned piglets. A total of 240 healthy 35-day-old weaned piglets (Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire, average weight 10.70 ± 0.14 kg) were randomly divided into five groups with six replicate pens and eight piglets per pen. Dietary treatments were a corn–soybean meal basal diet supplemented with 0, 25, 50, 75, and 100 mg/kg ZnVal, respectively. The experiment lasted for 28 days. Results showed that average daily gain (ADG) was increased (P < 0.05) by ZnVal with 75–100 mg/kg supplementation on days 15–28 and with 50–100 mg/kg supplementation on days 1–28. Supplementation of 25–100 mg/kg ZnVal reduced (P < 0.01) the diarrhea rate of weaned piglets on days 1 to 14 and 1 to 28. Dietary supplementation with 25–100 mg/kg ZnVal increased (P < 0.05) copper/zinc-superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn-SOD) and decreased malonaldehyde (MDA) activities in the serum on day 14 and 28. Supplementation of 25–100 mg/kg ZnVal increased (P < 0.05) glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity in serum on day 14. Additionally, the supplementation of 75 mg/kg ZnVal significantly increased the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Cu/Zn-SOD in the liver (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the supplementation of 25–100 mg/kg ZnVal significantly increased the total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) in the liver (P < 0.05). Higher (P < 0.05) concentrations of IgG in the serum were measured from piglets supplemented with 75–100 mg/kg ZnVal on day 14 and dietary supplementation with 25–100 mg/kg ZnVal increased the level of immunoglobulin G (IgG) in serum on day 28 (P < 0.05). In addition, higher (P < 0.05) concentrations of immunoglobulin A (IgA) in the duodenum and ileum were measured from piglets supplemented with 75 mg/kg ZnVal and the supplementation of 25–100 mg/kg ZnVal also showed a higher (P < 0.05) concentration of immunoglobulin G (IgG) in duodenum. Supplementation of 50–100 mg/kg ZnVal increased the villus height and villus height/crypt depth of jejunum (P < 0.05). Moreover, dietary supplementation with 75–100 mg/kg ZnVal showed a higher (P < 0.05) concentration of zinc in the liver and supplementation of 50–100 mg/kg ZnVal increased (P < 0.05) the concentration of zinc in the heart, spleen, and kidney. In conclusion, the present research showed that supplementation of ZnVal improves growth performance by increasing antioxidant capacity and immunity and regulating intestinal morphology and the optimal inclusion level of ZnVal was 65~80 mg/kg.
Contact Endoscopic Surface Vascular and Epithelial Morphology in Leukoplakia and Carcinoma of the Vocal Cords
Authors: Pavlidis Pavlos , Tseriotis Vasileios Spyridon , Matthias Christopher , Katsikari Ioulia , Chatzinikolaou Aimilios , Gouveris Haralampos
Published: September 2023

Purpose Leukoplakia is a macroscopic morphological term for thick white or grey mucosal patches that can represent various histologic diagnostic entities ranging from hyperplasia to malignancy. Aim was the study morphology of the superficial mucosa and microvascular network of the vocal cords in patients with suspected glottic squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) using contact endoscopy (CE). Material and Methods Seventy-nine patients (21 female, 58 male), with a mean age of 57.5 years ± 7.12 (range, 32–73 years), were prospectively enrolled and evaluated. Of these patients, 58 had leukoplakia (Group A/41 males and 17 females, with a mean age of 53.7 years ± 6.65), and 21 (Group B/ 17males and 4 females/ with a mean age of 60.5 years ± 6.04) had malignant lesions (pT1, n = 6; p T2, n = 8; pT3, n = 8; Group B), as proven by the results of the histological examination. Further, 79 non-smokers (control group—group C) were studied. CE imaging findings were classified into five types (I to V) based on the features of the mucosal intra-epithelial capillary loops. CE findings were correlated to the histologic findings. A separate analysis involving smoking status was done. Results The CE-based intraepithelial papillary capillary loop classification score was strongly correlated with the histological findings. Age was strongly associated with both malignancy and bilateral involvement. Smoking habits didn’t significantly differ between patients with unilateral and bilateral SCC. Conclusions CE imaging of the vocal cord mucosal capillaries may be useful for the early detection of glottic SCC and pre-cancerous lesions.
Health anxiety and oppressive support: their impact on decisions for non-urgent use of the emergency department of obstetrics and gynecology
Authors: Mazzoni Davide , Amadori Roberta , Sebri Valeria , Tosi Marco , Pregnolato Sara , Surico Daniela , Pravettoni Gabriella
Published: September 2023

The high number of non-urgent visits to the emergency departments of obstetrics and gynecology (EDOG) is receiving increasing attention from researchers and public health professionals. The decision to access the EDOG is the result of a decision-making process based on three phases, from the problem recognition to the intention to seek medical care, and the decision to visit the EDOG. Each stage may depend on different psychological and social factors, but their specific role is still unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the psychological and social factors which are implied in the decision-making process leading to non-urgent visits to the emergency department. A questionnaire was administered to 280 women between the 10th and the 14th week of pregnancy. Results showed that health anxiety had a positive effect on all three stages of the decision-making process (problem recognition, seeking medical care, and visiting the emergency department). Satisfaction with the prenatal care service showed a positive effect on the first two stages, while oppressive support had a positive effect on visiting the emergency department. We suggest that educational interventions for patients and family members aimed at reducing health anxiety and oppressive support during pregnancy could reduce the number of inappropriate accesses to the emergency department, with a beneficial effect on its functioning, patient-and-caregiver relationship, and the healthcare system costs.
Patient Expectations and Satisfaction in Pediatric Orthopedics
Authors: Cazzulino Alejandro , Bach Katherine , Cordero Rafael , Swarup Ishaan
Published: September 2023

Purpose of Review

The purpose of the current review is to analyze the current literature regarding the tools available to evaluate patient expectations and satisfaction. There have been an increasing number of tools that have been developed and validated for various orthopedic procedures. Despite the growing number of tools, there are a limited number of tools available for pediatric patients.

Recent Findings

Several tools have been developed in orthopedics to evaluate patient expectations. However, there are no tools that have been validated in the pediatric population. In addition, pediatric patient expectations should be collected in conjunction with parent/caregiver expectations. Although not specifically validated for pediatric patients, there are several tools available that may pertain to pediatric patients including the HSS ACL Expectations Survey, HSS Shoulder Expectations Survey, HSS Knee Surgery Expectations Survey, HSS Foot and Ankle Surgery Expectation Survey, Sunnybrook Surgery Expectations Survey, Musculoskeletal Outcomes Data Evaluation and Management System (MODEMS) Instruments, Quick DASH, and DASH.

In terms of patient satisfaction, there are even fewer tools available. Several tools have been developed to evaluate patient satisfaction and five additional tools within orthopedics. Of these tools, there are two that have been validated for pediatric patients: The Swedish Parents Satisfaction Questionnaire and the Scoliosis Research Society-22.

There are a growing number of tools to evaluate patient’s expectations and satisfaction in the orthopedic literature. Given most of these tools pertain to adult patients, there is a need for further development of tools specifically validated for pediatric patients and their parents/caregivers. Through the measurement of expectations and satisfaction, medical professionals can hope to improve satisfaction and outcomes.