bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First Experience with the NPseal®: A Novel Mechanically Powered Negative Pressure Dressing Applied to Colorectal Surgery Wounds
Authors: Wang Johnny , Williams Brian , Wlodarczyk Jordan R. , Gupta Abhinav , Kim Debora , Cologne Kyle G. , Koller Sarah E. , Hsieh Christine , Duldulao Marjun P. , Shin Joongho
Published: December 2024

Background

The use of prophylactic closed-incisional negative pressure wound therapy after colorectal procedures has been shown to reduce postoperative wound complications and surgical site infection. We present our experience with a novel, closed-incision, mechanically powered negative pressure (MP-NPD) dressing after colorectal procedures.

Methods

This was a prospective, single-center, single-arm observational study assessing patient reported and wound healing outcomes of colorectal surgical incisions dressed with a MP-NPD. Consecutive patients, 18 years and older, that met inclusion criteria were enrolled between May 2021 and December 2021.

Results

Thirty patients were included (13 male/17 female) with a mean age of 62.7 ± 11.8 years and mean body mass index of 25.5 ± 4.4 kg/m2. The mean incision length covered was 3.0 ± 1.8 cm. The median number of manual pinches required to initially activate the dressing with negative pressure within −75 to −125 mmHg was 12 (range 7-20). Four dressings were changed (13.3%) after drainage was noted inside the pump; not including these, 88.5% (23/26) of dressings held pressure consistently without any re-pinching during the 72-h period since they were first applied in the operating room. 75.9% of patients reported the dressing was “very comfortable” and none reported the dressing restricted mobility. 79.3% of patients reported the dressing was “very easy” to use. There were no cases of major wound complication or surgical site infection within 30 days.

Conclusion

The use of MP-NPD appears to be feasible on primarily-closed colorectal incisions. Further randomized controlled study is warranted to ascertain its clinical efficacy.
Altered intra- and inter-network functional activity among migraine, chronic migraine, and trigeminal neuralgia
Authors: Zhou Qichen , Zhao Rong , Qin Zhaoxia , Qi Yapeng , Tang Wenshuang , Liu Lan , Wang Weikan , Liu Jian-Ren , Du Xiaoxia
Published: December 2024

Objective:

This study aimed to investigate the specific manifestations and differences in brain network activity and functional connectivity between brain networks in patients with trigeminal neuralgia and migraine, aiming to reveal the neural basis of these two diseases.

Background:

Head and facial pain, including trigeminal neuralgia and migraine, is prevalent globally. However, the underlying neural mechanisms of these conditions remain unclear. Resting-state functional connectivity studies based on independent component analysis (ICA) may offer new insights into these diseases.

Methods:

The study involved 23 chronic migraine, 37 episodic migraine, 21 trigeminal neuralgia patients, and 33 age- and gender-matched controls. Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging was performed, and five sets of brain network components were extracted through ICA. Neuronal activity indicators were calculated for each participant’s independent components, including amplitudes of low-frequency fluctuation (ALFF) and regional homogeneity (ReHo). Functional connectivity was also assessed and compared among the four groups.

Results:

Trigeminal neuralgia patients showed reduced ALFF in the dorsal attention network versus episodic migraine patients and controls. Both trigeminal neuralgia and chronic migraine patients had decreased ReHo in this network. Migraine patients had weaker connectivity between the default mode and visual networks than controls. Trigeminal neuralgia patients also showed higher connectivity between the somatosensory motor and dorsal attention networks. Compared to episodic migraine, trigeminal neuralgia, and chronic migraine patients had increased connectivity between the visual and dorsal attention networks.

Conclusion:

The study provides evidence that long-term chronic head and facial pain may contribute to abnormalities in the activation and connectivity of the dorsal attention network. Compared to migraine patients, trigeminal neuralgia patients exhibit abnormal brain network connectivity, particularly within the somatomotor network, which may explain the presence of significant “trigger points.” These findings offer new perspectives for understanding the characteristics of different head and facial pain subtypes.
Extending the time window for tenecteplase by effective reperfusion of penumbral tissue in patients with large vessel occlusion: Rationale and design of a multicenter, prospective, randomized, open-label, blinded-endpoint, controlled phase 3 trial
Authors: Yogendrakumar Vignan , Campbell Bruce CV , Churilov Leonid , Garcia-Esperon Carlos , Choi Philip MC , Cordato Dennis J , Guha Prodipta , Sharma Gagan , Chen Chushuang , McDonald Amy , Thijs Vincent , Mamun Abul , Dos Santos Angela , Balabanski Anna H , Kleinig Timothy J , Butcher Ken S , Devlin Michael J , O’Rourke Fintan , Donnan Geoffrey A , Davis Stephen M , Levi Christopher R , Ma Henry , Parsons Mark W
Published: December 2024

Rationale:

The benefit of tenecteplase in the treatment of large vessel occlusion (LVO) patients presenting within 24 h of symptom onset remains unclear.

Aim:

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness and safety of tenecteplase, compared to standard of care, in patients presenting within the first 24 h of symptom onset with an LVO and target mismatch on perfusion computed tomography (CT).

Methods and design:

The “Extending the time window for Tenecteplase by Effective Reperfusion of peNumbrAL tissue in patients with Large Vessel Occlusion” (ETERNAL-LVO) trial is a prospective, randomized, open-label, blinded-endpoint, phase 3, parallel-group, superiority trial with covariate-adjusted 1:1 randomization, and adaptive sample size re-estimation. Patients with an anterior circulation LVO stroke, who present within 24 h of stroke onset or last known well with a target mismatch on computed tomography perfusion (CTP) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), will be randomized to tenecteplase (0.25 mg/kg) or standard of care (alteplase 0.90 mg/kg or conservative management at clinician discretion) prior to undergoing endovascular therapy.

Study outcomes:

The primary outcome is the proportion of patients with a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) of 0–1 (no disability) or return to baseline mRS at 3 months. Secondary and safety outcomes include the proportion of patients with an mRS of 0–2 at 3 months, an ordinal analysis of the mRS at 3 months, the proportion of patients with symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH), the proportion of patients with death due to any cause, and the proportion of patients with mRS 5–6 at 3 months (severe disability or death).

Discussion:

The ETERNAL-LVO trial will build on the current evidence for tenecteplase in the > 4.5-h window. Specifically, this trial will evaluate tenecteplase in a patient population who have access to endovascular therapy but may incur delays to endovascular therapy commencement or require transfer from a primary to a comprehensive stroke center.

Trials registration:

ClincialTrials.gov: NCT04454788.
Curiosity and the Regulation of Affective Memory
Authors: Ham Joy , Murty Vishnu P. , Helion Chelsea
Published: December 2024

We propose a cognitive and neurobiological model by which curiosity regulates affective memory, by positively biasing memory encoding through the promotion of emotion regulation. We begin with a brief overview of curiosity's observed emotional effects. Then we introduce three prominent models of affective memory encoding to suggest that the dopaminergic modulation of encoding associated with curiosity may positively bias memory processes. We situate the role of curiosity role in emotion regulation relative to its promotion of abstract thinking and cognitive flexibility. We then identify the neural processes associated with abstraction and flexibility observed in the left inferior frontal gyrus, the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, and the lateral prefrontal cortex as the neurobiological mechanisms underlying our framework.
Yearning for the Irretrievable: Nostalgia and Time
Authors: Geniusas Saulius
Published: December 2024

Situating phenomenological reflections on nostalgia within a historical context, I argue that Kant's temporalization of nostalgia remains incomplete. Bringing into question the widespread assumption that the object of nostalgia must be the past, I argue that nostalgia can be spoken of in three fundamental ways: as nostalgia for the past, for the present, and for the future. I further clarify the relation between the three forms of nostalgia here distinguished, and some other nostalgia that have been addressed in the literature. I conclude with a contention that a characteristic feature of present-day nostalgia is that it is more often lived through not only as nostalgia for the past but also as nostalgia for the present and for the future.
Targeting Arachidonic Acid Pathway with Natural Ingredients from Traditional Chinese Medicine for Cancer Prevention and Therapy
Authors: Liu Hui , Yu Jiahui , Dong Yajie , Rezeng Caidan , Li Xiuming
Published: December 2024

In the process of cancer transformation, arachidonic acid (AA) serves as an important metabolic pathway, contributing to the production of carcinogens by participating in the enzyme metabolic processes, like phospholipase A2, cyclooxygenases, cytochrome P450, and lipoxygenases. Chemopreventive drugs for various cancers have been developed from natural products that inhibit the AA pathway. Moreover, different monomers and components of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) are widely suggested to be effective on preventing and treating cancer chemically. The present work focused on analyzed different therapeutic methods for natural ingredients from TCM, targeting the metabolic pathways of three enzymes within the AA pathway. Additionally, we summarized the substantial effect of TCM in effectively inhibiting tumors by regulating this pathway.
Childing: An ecopedagogy of refusal
Authors: Osgood Jayne , Mohandas Sid
Published: December 2024

This paper dwells upon what was agitated in a research methods workshop that invited postgraduate researchers to take seriously materiality, movement, bodies and affect – as a starting place to explore how ecopedagogies might become both more capacious and creative. We explored ways to contemplate how generating knowledge – about education and worldly relationalities to environments – might be pursued in less familiar ways. The workshop began with a brief introduction to the praxis of ‘childing’ that encouraged a willingness to embrace uncertainty, speculation and curiosity. This mode of pedagogy actively displaces more recognisable conventions that are typically in search of representation, knowability, linearity and solutions. The workshop introduced participants to a range of feminist theories and philosophies but Haraway’s invitation to: ‘serious play’, go visiting, and to engage in a praxis that might reorient both thought and practice became central. This paper dwells upon and among what was agitated through the workshop and how embracing this mode of enquiry resonates across disciplinary boundaries and has lasting affects – that can shift what we might understand by ‘environment’, ‘sustainability’, ‘child’ and ‘pedagogy’.
Science history and science communication: A preliminary exploration of science-history texts in Science Pictorial (1933–1949)
Authors: Zhang Meifang , Wang Mengge , Meng Fangang
Published: December 2024

As one of China's oldest and most comprehensive popular-science journals, Science Pictorial has long been dedicated to promoting science and enhancing public scientific literacy. This paper presents a textual analysis of the science-history content in the journal from 1933 to 1949, exploring how mass media disseminated the knowledge of science history during the Republic of China era and the societal perceptions it reflected. The findings reveal that Science Pictorial's approach to science history reflects an empirical view of science and a progressive view of science history embraced by science communicators. This highlights the strong sense of national crisis felt by Chinese intellectuals at the time, the broad impact of scientific thinking and their deep respect for the scientific community. From a historiographical perspective, we propose that research on science communication should consider the communicators’ views on science and science history, as well as the ideological motivations and social forces shaping these views. This approach enables us to tackle more fundamental questions, such as why we conduct science communication and what we should communicate. We also suggest that science communicators should not only disseminate scientific knowledge but also account for the historical and cultural contexts of science. Ideally, they should develop a strong foundation in the historiography of science to help build a comprehensive framework for science communication.
Predictability Can Reduce the Burden of Adverse Childhood Experiences: Policies to Promote It
Authors: Glynn Laura M.
Published: December 2024

Ample evidence indicates that unpredictability plays a fundamental role in lifespan health and represents a unique form of early life adversity. This article first summarizes the evidence supporting the role of unpredictability in childhood on mental and physical health. It then discusses the characteristics of predictability that render it a compelling policy target: it may buffer children from other forms of adversity and could help advance health equity. Finally, it concludes with three policy case studies: screening for unpredictability in pediatric primary care, legislation to eliminate precarious parental work schedules, and the secondary benefits of cash payments in the form of reductions in unpredictability. Promoting predictability in children's lives will benefit both them and society. Feasible policy solutions can achieve this goal.
Exploring the Uncommon, Tongue Schwannoma—A Rare Case Report
Authors: Bhardwaj Swasti , Sen Swastika , Mishra Madan , Singh Gaurav , Mondal Shubhamoy
Published: December 2024

Schwannoma (neurilemmoma or neurinoma), is a benign tumor arising from Schwann cells that comprise the myelin sheaths surrounding peripheral nerve. They are encapsulated, usually solitary and slow-growing. Approximately 25%-45% of schwannoma occurs in the head and neck region. Intraoral incidence of schwannoma is 1%-12%. The most common intraoral site is tongue (1%) followed by palate, floor of the mouth, buccal mucosa, gingiva, lips and vestibular mucosa, retromolar region is the least common site. We describe a rare case of lingual schwannoma involving the left lateral part of tongue in a young male presented with a slow-growing, asymptomatic, painless mass on the left lateral part of tongue for several years. Magnetic resonance images demonstrated a well-defined almost oval-shaped isolated mass with uniform intensity on T2 weighted images relative to surrounding muscles. Patient was managed with complete surgical excision of the tumor and has not shown any recurrence in the follow-up period of 1 year. Schwannoma of tongue is a rare tumor of head and neck region. The diagnosis should be based on histopathological examination and in some cases after immunohistochemistry findings. Complete transoral resection allows removal of tumor to avoid recurrence and also avoids causing morbidity of tongue function.
Medication adherence among people living with hypertension and diabetes in Puno, Peru: A secondary analysis of formative data of the ANDES trial
Authors: Acevedo Parker K , Lord Katherine E , Williams Kendra N , Underhill Lindsay J , Cordova-Ascona Lucy , Campos Karina , Cuentas Gonzalo , Gittelsohn Joel , Mendoza Juan C , de las Fuentes Lisa , Hartinger Stella M , Dávila-Román Victor G , Checkley William
Published: December 2024

Background

Hypertension is the leading modifiable risk factor for premature death globally despite the existence of evidence-based and cost-effective treatments. Medication nonadherence is cited as the main cause of treatment failure for hypertension. In Peru, adherence to anti-hypertensive medications of individuals with both hypertension and type 2 diabetes (T2D) is not well studied. The few studies that have investigated differences in anti-hypertensive medication adherence among patients with and without T2D have demonstrated both positive and negative effects.

Methods

In a cross-sectional study in Puno, Peru, we compared anti-hypertensive medication adherence in individuals with hypertension between those with and without comorbid T2D. The primary outcome was adherence to anti-hypertensive medications as assessed by the Hill-Bone Compliance scale. The primary exposure variable was comorbidity status (i.e., having hypertension and diabetes vs. hypertension alone).

Results

Of the 204 participants with hypertension (mean age 67 ± 11 years, 60% female), 42 (21%) had comorbid diabetes. Participants with comorbid disease had higher overall anti-hypertensive adherence scores (49.5 ± 2.8 vs. 48.0 ± 4.1 points; p<0.001) and higher medication adherence scores (32.8 ± 2.2 vs. 31.3 ± 3.7 points; p<0.01) when compared to those with hypertension alone. In multivariable regression, comorbid diabetes and monthly income above 250 soles (68 USD) were associated with higher Hill-Bone Compliance scale scores by 1.5 ± 0.7 points (p=0.025) and 2.0 ± 0.7 points (p<0.01), respectively.

Conclusions

Participants with comorbid hypertension and diabetes exhibited higher adherence to anti-hypertensive medications when compared to those with hypertension alone, suggesting that individuals with comorbid disease are more likely to adhere to anti-hypertensive medications.
Three benefits of “Caution (Yellow Tag)” in SHM-driven condition assessment of buildings: Eight years experience with market-based SHM
Authors: Fukutomi Yu , O’Reilly Gerard , Nakashima Masayoshi , Kanda Katsuhisa , Kusaka Akihiko , Ogasawara Saori
Published: December 2024

In Japan, structural health monitoring (SHM) for building structures has received increased attention since the 2011 Tohoku earthquake, particularly regarding business continuity and functional recovery. Most applications are market-driven, and building owners deploy an SHM system at their own expense so that they can promptly assess the condition of their buildings as one of the tags denoted “Green,”“Yellow,” or “Red.” In 2015, the authors’ group began installing such an SHM system, and as of December 2023, 553 privately owned buildings have been equipped with this SHM system. This opinion paper presents the authors’ experiences to date on monitoring, utility of data, and interaction with building owners. It conveys three opinions that the authors believe to be most interesting, particularly in the context of the benefits of the “Caution (Yellow)” tag. The article briefly introduces SHM, followed by the specific system in question and the data accumulated over the years in Japan. The first opinion is that the damage criteria, that is, the boundaries among the three tags, should not be considered permanent but subject to updates based on experience and newly acquired data. The second opinion is that SHM is one of the best means to characterize the damage (and fragility) of major nonstructural elements, while “Caution (Yellow)” has inherent relevance to the nonstructural damage, particularly for initial damage states. The third opinion is that “Caution (Yellow)” is a good message for building owners and managers with a solid contingency plan that includes readily available building maintenance workers and engineers. On the contrary, it tends to frighten building owners and managers when such a contingency plan is absent, discouraging them from installing SHM. Overall, it presents some valuable insights of interest to those wishing to further such SHM systems on a broader scale.
IFN-I promotes T-cell–independent immunity and RBC autoantibodies via modulation of B-1 cell subsets in murine SCD
Authors: Su Shan , Bao Weili , Liu Yunfeng , Shi Patricia A. , Manwani Deepa , Murakhovskaya Irina , Campbell-Lee Sally , Lobo Cheryl A. , Mendelson Avital , An Xiuli , Zhong Hui , Yi Woelsung , Yazdanbakhsh Karina
Published: December 2024

The pathophysiology of sickle cell disease (SCD) is characterized by hemolytic anemia and vaso-occlusion, although its impact on the adaptive immune responses remains incompletely understood. To comprehensibly profile the humoral immune responses, we immunized SCD mice with T-cell–independent (TI) and T-cell–dependent (TD) antigens (Ags). Our study showed that SCD mice have significantly enhanced type 2 TI (TI-2) immune responses in a manner dependent on the level of type I interferons (IFN-I), while maintaining similar or decreased TD immune responses depending on the route of Ag administration. Consistent with the enhanced TI-2 immune responses in SCD mice, the frequencies of B-1b cells (B-1 cells in humans), a major cell type responding to TI-2 Ags, were significantly increased in both the peritoneal cavity and spleens of SCD mice and in the blood of patients with SCD. In support of expanded B-1 cells, elevated levels of anti–red blood cell (anti-RBC) autoantibodies were detected in both SCD mice and patients. Both the levels of TI-2 immune responses and anti-RBC autoantibodies were significantly reduced after IFN-I receptor (IFNAR) antibody blockades and in IFNAR1–deficient SCD mice. Moreover, the alterations of B-1 cell subsets were reversed in IFNAR1–deficient SCD mice, uncovering a critical role for IFN-I in the enhanced TI-2 immune responses and the increased production of anti-RBC autoantibodies by modulating the innate B-1 cell subsets in SCD. Overall, our study provides experimental evidence that the modulation of B-1 cells and IFN-I can regulate TI immune responses and the levels of anti-RBC autoantibodies in SCD.
An erythroid-specific lentiviral vector improves anemia and iron metabolism in a new model of XLSA
Authors: Castruccio Castracani Carlo , Breda Laura , Papp Tyler E. , Guerra Amaliris , Radaelli Enrico , Assenmacher Charles-Antoine , Finesso Giovanni , Mui Barbara L. , Tam Ying K. , Fontana Simona , Riganti Chiara , Fiorito Veronica , Petrillo Sara , Tolosano Emanuela , Parhiz Hamideh , Rivella Stefano
Published: December 2024

X-linked sideroblastic anemia (XLSA) is a congenital anemia caused by mutations in ALAS2, a gene responsible for heme synthesis. Treatments are limited to pyridoxine supplements and blood transfusions, offering no definitive cure except for allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, only accessible to a subset of patients. The absence of a suitable animal model has hindered the development of gene therapy research for this disease. We engineered a conditional Alas2-knockout (KO) mouse model using tamoxifen administration or treatment with lipid nanoparticles carrying Cre-mRNA and conjugated to an anti-CD117 antibody. Alas2-KOBM animals displayed a severe anemic phenotype characterized by ineffective erythropoiesis (IE), leading to low numbers of red blood cells, hemoglobin, and hematocrit. In particular, erythropoiesis in these animals showed expansion of polychromatic erythroid cells, characterized by reduced oxidative phosphorylation, mitochondria’s function, and activity of key tricarboxylic acid cycle enzymes. In contrast, glycolysis was increased in the unsuccessful attempt to extend cell survival despite mitochondrial dysfunction. The IE was associated with marked splenomegaly and low hepcidin levels, leading to iron accumulation in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow and the formation of ring sideroblasts. To investigate the potential of a gene therapy approach for XLSA, we developed a lentiviral vector (X-ALAS2-LV) to direct ALAS2 expression in erythroid cells. Infusion of bone marrow (BM) cells with 0.6 to 1.4 copies of the X-ALAS2-LV in Alas2-KOBM mice improved complete blood cell levels, tissue iron accumulation, and survival rates. These findings suggest our vector could be curative in patients with XLSA.
Health care Systems as Determinants of Outcomes in Multiple Myeloma: Final Results from the Latin American MYLACRE Study
Authors: Hungria Vania Tietsche de Moraes , Gaiolla Rafael D , Galvez Kenny , Remaggi Guillermina , Schutz Natalia , Bittencourt Rosane Isabel , Maiolino Angelo , Quintero-Vega Guillermo Enrique , Cugliari Maria Silvana , Braga Walter Moises Tobias , Villarim Carolina Colaco , Crusoé Edvan de Queiroz , Enrico Alicia Ines Ines , Caeiro Gaston , Bigonha Jandey Gloria , Moura Fernanda Lemos , Figueroa Emiliani Jair , Sossa-Melo Claudia , Lombana Milton , Pei Huiling , Fernandez Mariana , Saes Jaqueline , Trufelli Damila Cristina
Published: December 2024

Although systemic therapy for multiple myeloma (MM) has evolved considerably over the past two decades, state-of-the-art treatment is not uniformly available in Latin America. In some countries, disparities between the public and private sectors in clinical presentation, access to novel agents and transplantation are striking, with the public sector lagging. We conducted a multicenter, observational study (NCT03955900) of patients with MM in five Latin American countries (Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, and Panama). We enrolled patients aged 18 years or older diagnosed with MM between January 2016 and June 2021, using data collected between May 2019 and June 2022. We categorized institutions as "public" when primarily funded by federal or local government, and "private" when financed mostly or completely by other sources. We analyzed 1029 patients, 1021 of whom could be classified into public (N=339) and private (N=682) institutions. These two groups differed in many respects, with the latter having better baseline prognostic features (including eligibility to transplantation) and receiving combinations of immunomodulatory drugs and proteasome inhibitors, as well as anti-CD38 antibodies, more frequently than patients from public institutions. Among 960 patients with complete data for this analysis, the median overall survival was 44.6 months in public institutions and 53.3 months in private institutions (hazard ratio=0.84; 95% confidence interval, 0.67 to 1.04; P=0.109). Our results indicate diagnostic and therapeutic shortcomings in the management of MM in Latin America, with important gaps in patient profile, treatment patterns and long-term outcomes between public and private institutions.
Genetic predisposition meets cytokine imbalance: the influence of TNF-α (-308) polymorphism and TGF-β levels in pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia in Egypt
Authors: Radwan Roqaia E. , El-kholy Wafaa M. , Elsaed Afaf , Darwish Ahmad
Published: December 2024

Evading apoptosis fuels the aggressive nature of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). This study explored the potential roles of TNF-α, a pro-apoptotic cytokine, and TGF-β, a pro-proliferative factor, in the risk of developing ALL in Egyptian children. We investigated the TNF-α rs1800629 polymorphism and serum TGF-β levels in 100 ALL patients and 100 healthy controls. Notably, specific variations in TNF-α (GA, AA genotypes, and dominant model) were associated with an increased risk of ALL, suggesting impaired apoptosis. Conversely, ALL patients exhibited significantly lower TGF-β levels, potentially promoting uncontrolled proliferation. Our findings suggest that lower TGF-β and the TNF-α (-308) dominant model are associated with an increased risk of ALL. Additionally, TGF-β demonstrated exceptional accuracy (AUC 0.995) as a potential marker, with 100% sensitivity and 96% specificity. These findings suggest that TNF-α and TGF-β may be associated with ALL susceptibility, though further research with larger and more diverse populations is necessary to confirm these results.
Freeze-thaw Effect on the mechanical properties of different wood species: impact of moisture content variations, microscopic morphology, and thermal modification in a selected species
Authors: Asare Stephen , Stoescu Megan , Balmori Luis , Allena Srinivas , Kidando Emmanuel , Owusu-Danquah Josiah
Published: December 2024

This study investigates changes in the mechanical qualities (such as the deformation capacity, compressive strength, and compressive stiffness) of structural timber due to freezing and thawing cycles. Ten (10) specimens, including nine (9) distinct wood species, were assessed, with one from a thermally modified version of a specific species. The findings indicated that by the end of 60 full freeze-thaw cycles, the mechanical qualities had generally deteriorated for all wood species; however, the rate of reduction in these properties varied depending on the type of wood. The maximum reduction of the deformation capacity was evaluated as 16.2% for Iroko, and the lowest was 0.1% for Mahogany. Again, an average decrease of 29.5% was observed in the stiffness of Mahogany, while the least change in the stiffness was 4% for Soft Maple wood. To expound on the possible changes in the wood surface profile and fibers during freeze and thaw cycles of 20, 40, and 60, a scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis was also conducted. It was observed that the overall fiber density variation, due to the distribution of developed cracks and pores, accounts for the different responses in each complete set of cycles. Some of the wood species showed a progressive decrease in the fiber density from 0 to 60 freeze-thaw cycles, while others exhibited some surging effects. This explains the possibility of some of the wood’s mechanical properties increasing between cycles of freeze-thaw action (before finally reducing). For the first time, the impact of prior thermal treatment on the freeze-thaw resistance of wood was also investigated. It was seen that thermally modified Red Oak showed improved resistance to freeze-thaw in terms of compressive stiffness when compared to untreated Red Oak. However, the deformation capacity and compressive strength declined in the thermally modified wood compared to the untreated wood.
Hyperinsulinemic Hypoglycemia in a Patient With a Mutation in the Insulin Receptor
Authors: Imamovic Marcus , Vågberg Mattias , Cederquist Kristina , Dahlqvist Per
Published: December 2024

Hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemias resulting from variants in the insulin receptor (INSR) gene are rare but clinically important disorders. We present a male patient in his 30s, experiencing recurrent postprandial hypoglycemic events. Endocrine evaluation revealed an elevated insulin-to-C-peptide ratio. A hypoglycemia gene panel, using next-generation sequencing, identified a heterozygous nonsense variant in the INSR gene (NM_000208.4) c.3079C > T, p.(Arg1027*). Initial treatment with diazoxide reduced hypoglycemic symptoms and led to weight loss and decreased hemoglobin A1c due to reduced compensatory carbohydrate intake. However, limiting side effects on diazoxide prompted a treatment switch to lanreotide with maintained absence of hypoglycemic events. This case highlights the importance of considering variants in the INSR gene as a differential diagnosis in hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia cases, even in adults.
Mild Congenital Hyperinsulinism Caused by Mutation in Human Glucokinase Gene
Authors: Sozaeva Leila Salikhovna , Ismailova Sabina Kalandarovna , Chernyak Irina Yurievna , Popov Sergey Vladimirovich , Zakharova Victoriya Vitalievna , Chugunov Igor Sergeevich
Published: December 2024

Congenital hyperinsulinism (CHI) is a rare hereditary disease characterized by the development of hypoglycemia in both infants and adult patients. CHI may be induced by activating mutations in the glucokinase (GCK) gene, which encodes the human glucokinase enzyme. This form of the disease is characterized by considerable phenotypic heterogeneity and may vary in severity of its course. We present a familial case report of mild CHI caused by a novel variant, c.212T > C (p.Val71Ala), in the GCK gene in a 41-year-old mother and a 15-year-old daughter. The clinical picture of hypoglycemia in the patients was not pronounced, which makes this clinical case remarkable. Moreover, a variant of uncertain clinical significance, с.1903G > A (p.Ala635Thr), in the ABCC8 gene was detected, which may also have contributed to the course of the disease in these patients.
Women With Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Have Favorable Pregnancy Outcomes but Prolonged Time to Conceive
Authors: Auer Matthias K , Minea Clara E , Quinkler Marcus , Bancos Irina , Beuschlein Felix , Meyer Gesine , Lottspeich Christian , Bidlingmaier Martin , Rieger Eva , Nowotny Hanna F , Tschaidse Lea , Falhammar Henrik , Pivonello Rosario , Simeoli Chiara , Reisch Nicole
Published: December 2024

Objective

To study pregnancy outcomes and complications in women with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH).

Methods

A retrospective multicenter study was conducted at tertiary reference centers in 5 countries (Austria, Germany, Italy, Sweden, USA), including 72 adult women with CAH (nonclassic [NC] n = 34, simple virilizing [SV] n = 21, salt wasting [SW] n = 17).

Results

A total of 133 pregnancies, 112 live births, and 25 abortions were documented. Prolonged latency to pregnancy was observed (median 11 months in SW, 24 months in SV, 8 months in NC), with a notable use of fertility-enhancing medication (25.6%) and assisted reproductive techniques (30.8%). Over half of the women in each group took more than 12 months to conceive. The average number of live births (1.4-1.6 children per woman) was similar across CAH phenotypes and comparable to the general population. Spontaneous abortion rates (18.0%) were also similar across phenotypes. Primary cesarean section rates (60.9%) were higher than in the general population, though 23.8% of women with SV and 29.4% of women with SW gave birth naturally, despite most having undergone genital surgery. Children categorized as small for gestational age were 20.5%. Pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum complications were rare for mothers and neonates.

Conclusion

The study indicates a prolonged latency to pregnancy and high use of fertility treatments in CAH patients, regardless of phenotype. Abortion rates were not increased, and overall pregnancy and perinatal outcomes were favorable.
Sex Differences in Basal Cortisol Levels Across Body Fluid Compartments in a Cross-sectional Study of Healthy Adults
Authors: Liang Katharine J , Colasurdo Elizabeth A , Li Ge , Shofer Jane B , Galasko Douglas , Quinn Joseph F , Farlow Martin R , Peskind Elaine R
Published: December 2024

Context

Many studies have moved toward saliva and peripheral blood sampling for studying cortisol, even in relation to disorders of the brain. However, the degree to which peripheral cortisol reflects central cortisol levels has yet to be comprehensively described. Data describing the effect that biological characteristics such as age and sex have on cortisol levels across compartments is also limited.

Objective

To assess the relationships of cortisol levels across cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), saliva, and plasma (total and free) compartments and describe the effects of age and sex on these relationships.

Design

Multisite cross-sectional observation study.

Setting

Samples collected in academic outpatient settings in 2001-2004.

Patients or Other Participants

Healthy community volunteers (n = 157) of both sexes, aged 20-85 years.

Interventions

None.

Main Outcome Measures

This study was a secondary analysis of data collected from a previously published study.

Results

CSF cortisol correlated more strongly with plasma (r = 0.49, P < .0001) than with saliva cortisol levels. Sex but not age was a significant modifier of these relationships. CSF cortisol levels trended higher with older age in men (R2 = 0.31, P < .001) but not women. Age-related cortisol binding globulin trends differed by sex but did not correlate with sex differences in cortisol levels in any compartment.

Conclusion

Variability in the correlations between central and peripheral cortisol discourages the use of peripheral cortisol as a direct surrogate for central cortisol measures. Further investigation of how mechanistic drivers interact with biological factors such as sex will be necessary to fully understand the dynamics of cortisol regulation across fluid compartments.
Cierpliwość w publicystyce litewskiej na podstawie przymiotnika kantrus (‘cierpliwy’)
Authors: Vaičiulytė-Semėnienė Loreta
Published: December 2024

This article addresses patience on the basis of the forms of the adjective patient (Lith. kantrus), juggling between a structural and a cognitive approach to its meaning in reliance on 700 examples of published materials available in the Corpus of the Modern Lithuanian Language (Lith. Dabartinės lietuvių kalbos tekstynas, DLKT) by the Centre for Computational Linguistics of the Vytautas Magnus University in Kaunas. The examples of DLKT that have been analysed show, first of all, that for Lithuanians the aspect of patience as suffering and pain is of little relevance. Typically, patience is perceived as a changeable twofold value: it is a positive internal, psychological and psychosocial characteristic of a patient person and, on the basis of these positive internal characteristics, a patient person has the ability to act to achieve positive results. Patience is intertwined with many states of the subject. Usually, a person is calm (meek, quiet, peaceful), gentle (kind), forgiving, considerate, open, loyal (trustworthy), wise, tolerant, and, of course, loving (affectionate). It is on the basis of unconditional, fatherly love, actualised in the examples through God, that the patient person, without hurrying and without hurrying the other, works for a certain period of time quite persistently, steadfastly and diligently, moving towards the goal. Typically, a patient is a more or less active and goal-oriented person who is more optimistic. Patience has little to do with fear, anger, and frustration. Patience is also a characteristic of animals (horse, eagle, dog, etc.) and inanimate objects (tree, earth, etc.).
Vokietės vaizdinys dabartinės lietuvių kalbos tekstyne
Authors: Čižik-Prokaševa Veslava
Published: December 2024

The aim of this article is to describe the image of the German woman in contemporary Lithuanian language texts. Combining a structural and cognitive approach, 939 fiction, non-fiction and journalistic texts were analysed. It was found that the long-standing patriarchal tradition of stereotyping women, i.e. assigning them only traditional roles in the family and society, has changed. German women are portrayed in contemporary Lithuanian texts as strong individuals who know what they want and strive for it, as role models for other women. Their role in shaping contemporary society is evident.
Działalność lituanistyczna Jana Karłowicza w świetle korespondencji z Mieczysławem Dowojną-Sylwestrowiczem
Authors: Grabiński Szymon
Published: December 2024

The article attempts to reconstruct the historical and social conditions behind the process of collecting and compiling Lithuanian materials by Jan Karłowicz. The analysis was undertaken on the basis of archival materials covering 156 messages exchanged between Karłowicz and Mečislovas Davainis-Silvestraitis, a Lithuanian folklorist and publicist, between 1883 and 1896. The introduction of Pierre Bourdieu’s concepts helps to understand the special nature of this collaboration, defining the position of Karłowicz and Davainis-Silvestraitis, non-institutionalised linguists, in the field of linguistics of the late 19th century.
Integration of the aSSKINg framework into the electronic patient record: a quality improvement project
Authors: Martin Susan , Holloway Samantha , Watts Emily
Published: December 2024

Assessment of pressure ulcer (PU) risk is important in clinical practice and the need to document it in the patient's record is paramount. Despite national and international guidelines highlighting the need to document PU risk, nursing documentation remains variable. The first article in this series discussed the evidence base underpinning the development of clinical guidelines for PUs, alongside the creation of bundle approach for PU prevention. The second article presented the results of a clinical audit exploring compliance against a PU prevention bundle (aSSKINg framework) in an adult community nursing setting in the South East of England. This final article in the series presents the results of a quality improvement project that involved a clinical audit following the implementation of the aSSKINg framework into the electronic patient record (EPR). The aim was to improve nursing documentation for patients with PU risk. The clinical audit was conducted in two parts, with a pilot phase running between 6 February 2023 and 15 April 2023. After the template implementation into the EPR, a follow-up audit was undertaken between 1 November 2023 and 31 January 2024. Overall compliance against the aSSKINg framework improved, especially the completion of the PURPOSE-T on the first visit, full skin assessment and repositioning advice. Following the pilot phase, the aSSKINg template was rolled out in a phased approach to the adult community nursing, enhanced care home matrons and urgent community response teams.
Modal focal adaptive optics for Bessel-focus two-photon fluorescence microscopy
Authors: Kim Hyeonggeon , Natan Ryan , Chen Wei , Winans Amy M. , Fan Jiang Lan , Isacoff Ehud , Ji Na
Published: December 2024

Adaptive optics (AO) improves the spatial resolution of microscopy by correcting optical aberrations. While its application has been well established in microscopy modalities utilizing a circular pupil, its adaptation to systems with non-circular pupils, such as Bessel-focus two-photon fluorescence microscopy (2PFM) with an annular pupil, remains relatively uncharted. Herein, we present a modal focal AO (MFAO) method for Bessel-focus 2PFM. Measuring and correcting aberration using a spatial light modulator placed in conjugation with the focal plane of the microscope objective, MFAO employs Zernike annular polynomials — a first in AO implementation — to achieve performance on par with a previous zonal AO method, but with a notably simplified optical configuration. We validated the performance of MFAO in correcting artificial and sample-induced aberrations, as well as in in vivo imaging of zebrafish larvae and mouse brains. By expanding the application of modal AO to annular pupils as well as aberration measurement and correction to a wavefront modulator at the objective focal plane, MFAO represents a notable advancement in the implementation of AO in microscopy.
Imaging melanin-associated organelles in the retinal pigment epithelium via visible light OCT redshift
Authors: Meng Ruoyu , Gupta Alok K. , Kho Aaron , Srinivasan Vivek J.
Published: December 2024

The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) performs a number of functions essential for retinal health. RPE dysregulation and degeneration can occur in diseases. Methods to image the human RPE directly are limited, as it is only about 10 µm thick and situated between the photoreceptor outer segments and Bruch’s membrane (BM). Here we propose a visible light optical coherence tomography (OCT) technique to image the spectral redshift as light traverses the apical to basal RPE. Results in mice and human subjects support that the redshift occurs due to melanosomes and melanolipofuscin in the apical and middle RPE cell body.
Significantly enhanced near-field coupling via tip engineering
Authors: Shiravi H. , Ni G. X.
Published: December 2024

The ability to significantly enhance near-field coupling between light
and matter at the nanoscale is crucial for advancing the fields of
nanophotonics and nanopolariotonics. However, conventional probes face
challenges in achieving optimal light–matter interaction. In
this study, we propose a novel, to the best of our knowledge,
simulation-based strategy that leverages tip engineering to
dramatically amplify the scattering field through tailored
double-layer geometries. By employing a core-shell structure with a
thin shell layer optimized for specific dielectric permittivity and
effective polarizability, we demonstrate a near-field enhancement of
up to 10 times compared to conventional probes. Our findings highlight
exciting new possibilities for optimizing near-field interactions
through probe designs with customized resonances, paving the way for
substantially improved nano-optical sensing, imaging, and
detection.
Broadband THz emission of long pulses from photomixing process with optical chirped pulses
Authors: Taton Gabriel , Fauquet Frederic , Betka Ilyes , Guillet Jean-Paul , Darracq Frederic , Mounaix Patrick , Bigourd Damien
Published: December 2024

Terahertz (THz) generation via photomixing on photoconductive antenna
using twin delayed chirped pulses provides a long THz pulse with a
narrow bandwidth. To generate a long pulse with a broad bandwidth, we
propose a new, to the best of our knowledge, method that combines two
long optical pulses with opposite chirps. The pulses exhibit temporal
distributions of their instantaneous frequencies with opposite slopes.
As a result, the interaction between the time-evolving beat frequency
and a photoconductor produces a broad THz spectrum with temporal
variations. In our experimental setup, we generate a 12-ps-long pulse
with a 1 THz bandwidth spectrum, featuring a frequency ramp of
90 GHz/ps, resembling a chirped THz pulse. By lowering optical peak
power, this approach signifies a major advancement toward integrating
photomixer technology, particularly in THz ranging applications.
Auf dem Weg zur digitalen Föderation – Ein Vorgehensmodell für die Realisierung von dezentralen Datenräumen mit Gaia-X
Authors: Heinbach Christoph , Stecenko Christine , Schorr Philipp , Wieker Horst
Published: December 2024

Die digitale Transformation wirkt branchenübergreifend und setzt datenbasierte Wertschöpfungspotenziale, beispielsweise zur Verbesserung der Wettbewerbsfähigkeit von Unternehmen, frei. Gleichzeitig ist die transformative Entfaltung durch digitale Innovationen mit Herausforderungen für Organisationen im Bereich des Datenschutzes, der Datensicherheit und der Dateninteroperabilität verbunden. Mit der Gaia-X-Initiative wurde ein technisches Rahmenwerk für den Aufbau eines Datenökosystems positioniert, das den bestehenden Herausforderungen zur Stärkung einer souveränen Digitalwirtschaft begegnen soll. Obwohl in verschiedenen Domänen derzeit die Anwendung der Gaia-X-Komponenten fokussiert wird, existiert bisher kein einheitliches Verständnis zur Formation digitaler datenorientierter Bündnisse sowie zum gezielten Aufbau dezentraler Datenräume mit Gaia‑X. Dadurch wird ein selbstbestimmter Austausch von Daten und Services sowie die Entstehung neuer Geschäftsmodelle erschwert. Um die bestehende Lücke zu adressieren, entwickelt die vorliegende Studie ein Vorgehensmodell zur Initialisierung digitaler Föderationen und Realisierung inhärenter Gaia-X-Datenräume. Anhand von durchgeführten Workshops im Rahmen des laufenden Konsortialforschungsprojekts Gaia-X 4 ROMS werden Ziele und Designanforderungen an das Vorgehensmodell abgeleitet und anschließend evaluiert. Das exemplarische Vorgehensmodell umfasst insgesamt sechs Ablaufschritte und definiert verschiedene Tätigkeiten, von der Formation der Organisationsgemeinschaft bis zur Operationalisierung des Datenraums. Durch die interoperable und souveräne Ausrichtung digitaler Föderationen werden abschließend Implikationen der Studie herausgestellt sowie ein Ausblick auf zukünftige Weiterentwicklungen gegeben.