bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surgical excision of an extradural intraspinal synovial cyst at the foramen magnum in a dog
Authors: Coppola Mario , Tabanez Joana , Saunders Fritha C. , Hermann Annika , Carrete Jordina Caldero , Whittaker Danielle E.
Published: September 2023

A 6‐year‐old, female, neutered labrador retriever was presented for investigation of cervical pain. At initial presentation, pain was localised to the cervical region. No neurological deficits were observed. Computed tomography scan and magnetic resonance imaging revealed an extra‐axial cyst‐like lesion at the level of the foramen magnum, with extension into the caudal fossa. Conservative management, which included activity restriction and a 4‐week course of corticosteroids failed to resolve the clinical signs, and the cyst was eventually surgically excised. Histological examination of the sample submitted confirmed a synovial cyst. The dog recovered uneventfully after surgery and remained pain free until the last follow‐up (9 months). Thus, surgical excision of an extradural intraspinal synovial cyst in a dog provided resolution of the clinical signs.
Electrokinetic peristaltic transport of Bingham‐Papanastasiou fluid via porous media
Authors: Aslam Farida , Noreen Saima
Published: September 2023

An important rheological mathematical model is created to investigate the rheological impacts of slip velocity and varied zeta potentials in an inclined asymmetric channel. The flow is taken in an isotropic porous medium and is governed by Bingham‐Papanastasiou model. The membrane based pumping analysis is done in a wave frame of reference moving with the speed of the wave. Flow model is simplified by considering small wave number δ, small Reynolds number and small Peclet number . The emerging linearized non‐dimensional system of equations is evaluated for analytical and numerical methods. The effects of sundry parameters on pumping, temperature θ, axial velocity u and trapping have been studied graphically. The viscous model is retrieved for Bingham number , or stress growth parameter . Finally, the effects of relevant parameters on heat transfer rate and shear stress at walls are discussed numerically. The results show that more pressure is required to flow same amount of fluid in an inclined channel. The temperature field θ is boosted by both the Bingham number and the continuation parameter M. It is also observed that different zeta potentials and velocity slip conditions are significant phenomena to influence channel flow. A pumping‐based device can be built using the existing model to combine and filter physiological samples and chemicals as well as to visualize the transit of physiological fluids.
What Can We Learn from the Educational Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic?
Authors: Reimers Fernando M.
Published: September 2023

This chapter provides a conceptual foundation for the book, discussing how the COVID-19 pandemic created an opportunity to re-examine the relationship of schools to society. The chapter introduces the study, examines the educational effects which could have been expected from the pandemic, reviews some of the available empirical evidence about such effects, introduces each chapter, and discusses the theoretical implications of the study.
Fragility Compounded: The State of the South African Educational System in the Aftermath of Covid-19
Authors: Soudien Crain , Reddy Vijay , Harvey Jaqueline
Published: September 2023

In this chapter we undertake an assessment of how Covid-19 impacted the South African education system two years on. Our argument is that COVID-19 compounded the challenges of an inherently fragile education system. Important elements of this system were precipitously weakened as budget cuts were instituted and funds for infrastructural maintenance diverted towards emergency requirements. The chapter begins with a description of the major structural features of the South African education system that were there before the pandemic, highlighting the country’s racialised and classed inequalities. It then describes how government, labour unions, parents and civil society, including non-governmental organisations, responded. The chapter then estimates the losses on contact time, dropouts, and learning. Extrapolating from annual achievement studies conducted in one province, we estimate that after two years of COVID-19-related losses, the national achievement scores were even lower than what we earlier estimated. Our analysis showed that the most fragile parts of the system, serving the poor, struggled to sustain basic levels of functionality. The privileged parts of the education system also experienced further learning losses. Ground previously gained due to targeted intervention was severely eroded. The contribution ends with an evaluation of the responses of the South African government using the ideas presented by the International Commission on the Futures of Education.
Leaning into the Leapfrog Moment: Redesigning American Schools in a Post-Pandemic World
Authors: Audrain R. Lennon , Basile Carole G.
Published: September 2023

Post-pandemic, the United States education system is challenged by substantial declines in student achievement as indicated by declining National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) scores, heightening teacher dissatisfaction, and decreases in teachers’ commitment to the teaching profession. All pose threats to the longevity of schools and schooling. Additionally, while American schools have received an influx of billions of dollars through Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Funds to assist in remedying instructional loss, many of the initiatives these funds are being used for are temporary and provisional. These initiatives also miss the silver lining and leapfrog moment that the pandemic has offered American schooling. In this chapter, we present student and teacher outcomes in the United States from the past two years during the pandemic. We then detail how American schools have the opportunity to embrace a new norm for teaching and learning, which we call the Next Education Workforce. Finally, we discuss the initial findings of teachers’ participation in these models, which hold implications for what teaching and learning could be in a post-pandemic world.
Interplay between dark matter and leptogenesis in a common framework
Authors: Qi XinXin , Sun Hao
Published: September 2023

Abstract

We consider the interplay between dark matter and leptogenesis in a common framework, where three right-handed neutrinos, one fermionic dark matter and two singlet scalars are introduced into the Standard Model. The mixing of the two singlet scalars not only determines the dark matter relic density but also connects right-handed neutrino with dark matter. We consider that the baryon asymmetry is generated via the resonant leptogenesis and the right-handed neutrino masses are at the TeV level. We consider a viable parameter space satisfying the relic density constraint, and the parameter space is more flexible in the case of a larger mixing angle. We found that the existence of dark matter in the model can not only dilute the baryon asymmetry but can also generate a larger baryon asymmetry due to the process of dark matter annihilation into a pair of right-handed neutrinos. Both the dilution effect and enhanced effect can occur so that influence the observed baryon asymmetry.
A global analysis of axion-like particle interactions using SMEFT fits
Authors: Biekötter Anke , Fuentes-Martín Javier , Galda Anne Mareike , Neubert Matthias
Published: September 2023

Abstract

In the presence of axions or axion-like particles (ALPs) that couple to the Standard Model via dimension-five interactions, dimension-six SMEFT interactions are generated via renormalization-group evolution. As many of these SMEFT contributions are experimentally tightly constrained, this “ALP-SMEFT interference” can be used to derive indirect bounds on the ALP couplings to the Standard Model particles. We present a global analysis of the Wilson coefficients of the ALP effective Lagrangian based on Higgs, top, and low-energy data. The obtained bounds are model independent and are competitive or even stronger than direct bounds in the GeV to TeV ALP-mass range.
Human CD34+-derived complete plasmacytoid and conventional dendritic cell vaccine effectively induces antigen-specific CD8+ T cell and NK cell responses in vitro and in vivo
Authors: van Eck van der Sluijs Jesper , van Ens Diede , Brummelman Jolanda , Heister Daan , Sareen Aastha , Truijen Lisa , van Ingen Schenau Dorette S. , Heemskerk Mirjam H. M. , Griffioen Marieke , Kester Michel G. D. , Schaap Nicolaas P. M. , Jansen Joop H. , van der Waart Anniek B. , Dolstra Harry , Hobo Willemijn
Published: September 2023

Allogeneic stem cell transplantation (alloSCT) can be curative for hemato-oncology patients due to effective graft-versus-tumor immunity. However, relapse remains the major cause of treatment failure, emphasizing the need for adjuvant immunotherapies. In this regard, post-transplantation dendritic cell (DC) vaccination is a highly interesting strategy to boost graft-versus-tumor responses. Previously, we developed a clinically applicable protocol for simultaneous large-scale generation of end-stage blood DC subsets from donor-derived CD34+ stem cells, including conventional type 1 and 2 DCs (cDC1s and cDC2s), and plasmacytoid DCs (pDCs). In addition, the total cultured end-product (DC-complete vaccine), also contains non-end-stage-DCs (i.e. non-DCs). In this study, we aimed to dissect the phenotypic identity of these non-DCs and their potential immune modulatory functions on the potency of cDCs and pDCs in stimulating tumor-reactive CD8+ T and NK cell responses, in order to obtain rationale for clinical translation of our DC-complete vaccine. The non-DC compartment was heterogeneous and comprised of myeloid progenitors and (immature) granulocyte- and monocyte-like cells. Importantly, non-DCs potentiated toll-like receptor-induced DC maturation, as reflected by increased expression of co-stimulatory molecules and enhanced cDC-derived IL-12 and pDC-derived IFN-α production. Additionally, antigen-specific CD8+ T cells effectively expanded upon DC-complete vaccination in vitro and in vivo. This effect was strongly augmented by non-DCs in an antigen-independent manner. Moreover, non-DCs did not impair in vitro DC-mediated NK cell activation, degranulation nor cytotoxicity. Notably, in vivo i.p. DC-complete vaccination activated i.v. injected NK cells. Together, these data demonstrate that the non-DC compartment potentiates DC-mediated activation and expansion of antigen-specific CD8+ T cells and do not impair NK cell responses in vitro and in vivo. This underscores the rationale for further clinical translation of our CD34+-derived DC-complete vaccine in hemato-oncology patients post alloSCT.
Association between timing and consistency of physical activity and type 2 diabetes: a cohort study on participants of the UK Biobank
Authors: Tian Caiwei , Bürki Charlyne , Westerman Kenneth E. , Patel Chirag J.
Published: September 2023

Aims/hypothesis

We sought to quantify the relationship between morning, afternoon or evening physical activity and consistency (e.g. routine) and risk of type 2 diabetes.

Methods

A cohort of 93,095 UK Biobank participants (mean age 62 years) without a history of type 2 diabetes wore a wrist-worn accelerometer for 1 week. We converted accelerometer information to estimate metabolic equivalent of task (MET), summing MET h of total physical activity completed within three intra-day time segments (morning, afternoon and evening). We quantified physical activity consistency as the SD of participants’ daily total physical activity. We ultimately associated each of the following with incident type 2 diabetes: (1) morning, afternoon or evening ‘time-segmented’ MET h per week; and (2) consistency. We also considered moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and vigorous physical activity (VPA) in association with type 2 diabetes incidence.

Results

When considering MET as the physical activity measure, we observed protective associations of morning (HR 0.90 [95% CI 0.86, 0.93], p=7×10−8) and afternoon (HR 0.91 [95% CI 0.87, 0.95], p=1×10−5) but did not have evidence for evening physical activity (HR 0.95 [95% CI 0.90, 1.00], p=0.07) with type 2 diabetes. There was no difference between MET-measured morning and afternoon physical activity. Our substitution model highlighted the importance of adjusting for lifestyle factors (e.g. sleep time and diet); the effect of a substitution between afternoon and evening physical activity was attenuated after adjustment for lifestyle variables. Consistency of MET-measured physical activity was not associated with type 2 diabetes (p=0.07). MVPA and VPA were associated with decreased risk for type 2 diabetes at all times of the day.

Conclusions/interpretation

Total metabolic equivalents of physical activity in the morning and afternoon had a protective effect on diabetes risk and evening activity was not associated with diabetes. Consistency of physical activity did not play a role in decreasing risk for diabetes. Vigorous activity is associated with lower risk no matter the time of day of activity.

Graphical Abstract
Social isolation, social media use, and poor mental health among older adults, California Health Interview Survey 2019–2020
Authors: Siddiq Hafifa , Teklehaimanot Senait , Guzman Ariz
Published: September 2023

Background

Older adults’ engagement on social media may be a resource to reduce loneliness and improve mental health. Purpose: This study aimed to examine loneliness and social media use and its association with severe psychological distress among older adults and whether social media use moderated the association of loneliness on severe psychological distress among older adults.

Methods

This study is a secondary analysis of the 2019–2020 California Health Interview Survey. The Kessler 6-item Psychological Distress Scale (K6) assessed symptoms of psychological distress, with a K6 score ≥ 13 associated with severe mental illness. Loneliness was measured using a revised Three Item Loneliness Scale (TILS) score. Multiple regression analyses were conducted to examine associations between loneliness and severe psychological distress.

Results

Loneliness, health status, and identification as Asian, remained strong predictors of severe psychological distress among older adults when adjusting for other factors. In bivariate analysis, high-frequent social media users, but did not remain significant when accounting for covariates. Social media use did not moderate the association between loneliness and severe psychological distress.

Conclusion

This study underscores the significant impact of loneliness on poor mental health among older adults, emphasizing that while frequent social media use correlates with severe psychological distress, it may not alleviate the association of loneliness on poor mental health, thus highlighting the urgent need to address social isolation and promote genuine social connectedness, particularly among Asian older adults.
Ehresmann–Schein–Nambooripad theorems for classes of biunary semigroups
Authors: Stokes Tim
Published: September 2023

We obtain an ESN theorem for a very general class of biunary semigroups with idempotent-valued domain and range operations, representing them in terms of small categories equipped with a suitable biaction of the identities on the category. Our results generalise the recent work of Fitzgerald and Kinyon connecting localisable semigroups to transcription categories, as well as that of Lawson linking Ehresmann semigroups to categories with Ehresmann biaction. In contrast to most approaches to ESN theorems, we do not require the categories to be ordered or for their sets of identities to possess any particular structure. Throughout, the biunary semigroups are represented using categories rather than generalised categories of any kind, and we obtain category isomorphisms between the clesses of semigroups and their associated enriched categories, rather than category equivalences. Our results cover the class of DRC-semigroups considered by Jones and Shoufeng Wang, but they also cover cases where not both congruence conditions hold, including examples such as the semigroup of binary relations on a set under demonic composition equipped with domain and range operations.
Analysis of image data from the EuroNet PHL-C2 trial indicates a potential reduction in injected F-18 FDG activities in children: a proposal to update the EANM Paediatric Dosage Card
Authors: Tran-Gia Johannes , Eberlein Uta , Lassmann Michael , Mauz-Körholz Christine , Körholz Dieter , Zuccetta Pietro , Bar-Sever Zvi , Rosner Ute , Georgi Thomas Walter , Sabri Osama , Kluge Regine , Piccardo Arnoldo , Kurch Lars
Published: September 2023

Background

The aim of this work is to provide the currently missing evidence that may allow an update of the Paediatric Dosage Card provided by the European Association of Nuclear Medicine (EANM) for conventional PET/CT systems.

Methods

In a total of 2082 consecutive [18F]FDG-PET scans performed within the EuroNet-PHL-C2 trial, the administered [18F]FDG activity was compared to the activity recommended by the EANM Paediatric Dosage Card. None of these scans had been rejected beforehand by the reference nuclear medicine panel of the trial because of poor image quality. For detailed quality assessment, a subset of 91 [18F]FDG-PET scans, all performed in different patients at staging, was selected according to pre-defined criteria, which (a) included only patients who had received substantially lower activities than those recommended by the EANM Paediatric Dosage Card, and (b) included as wide a range of different PET systems and imaging parameters as possible to ensure that the conclusions drawn in this work are as generally valid as possible. The image quality of the subset was evaluated visually by two independent readers using a quality scoring system as well as analytically based on a volume-of-interest analysis in 244 lesions and the healthy liver. Finally, recommendations for an update of the EANM Paediatric Dosage Card were derived based on the available data.

Results

The activity recommended by the EANM Paediatric Dosage Card was undercut by a median of 99.4 MBq in 1960 [18F]FDG-PET scans and exceeded by a median of 15.1 MBq in 119 scans. In the subset analysis (n = 91), all image data were visually classified as clinically useful. In addition, only a very weak correlation (r = 0.06) between activity reduction and tumour-to-background ratio was found. Due to the intended heterogeneity of the dataset, the noise could not be analysed statistically sound as the high range of different imaging variables resulted in very small subsets. Finally, a suggestion for an update of the EANM Paediatric Dosage Card was developed, based on the analysis presented, resulting in a mean activity reduction by 39%.

Conclusion

The results of this work allow for a conservative update of the EANM Paediatric Dosage Card for [18F]FDG-PET/CT scans performed with conventional PET/CT systems.

Graphical abstract
A real-life study of daratumumab-bortezomib-dexamethasone (D-VD) in lenalidomide exposed/refractory multiple myeloma patients: a report from the Triveneto Myeloma Working Group
Authors: Barilà Gregorio , Quaglia Francesca Maria , Furlan Anna , Pescosta Norbert , Bonalumi Angela , Marcon Chiara , Pascarella Anna , Tinelli Martina , De March Elena , Lico Albana , Sartori Roberto , Clissa Cristina , De Sabbata Giovanni , Nappi Davide , Porrazzo Marika , De Marchi Roberta , Pavan Laura , Tosetto Alberto , Gherlinzoni Filippo , Krampera Mauro , Bassan Renato , Patriarca Francesca , Semenzato Gianpietro , Zambello Renato
Published: September 2023

Treatment of lenalidomide refractory (Len-R) multiple myeloma (MM) patients still represents an unmet clinical need. In the last years, daratumumab-bortezomib-dexamethasone (D-VD) combination was extensively used in this setting, even though only a small fraction of Len-R patients was included in the pivotal trial. This real-life study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the D-VD regimen in a cohort that exclusively enrolled Len exposed or refractory MM patients. The study cohort included 57 patients affected by relapsed/refractory MM. All patients were previously exposed to Len, with 77.2% being refractory. The overall response rate (ORR) was 79.6% with 43% of cases obtaining at least a very good partial response (VGPR). The D-VD regimen showed a favorable safety profile, with low frequency of grade 3–4 adverse events, except for thrombocytopenia observed in 21.4% of patients. With a median follow-up of 13 months, median progression-free survival (PFS) was 17 months. No significant PFS differences were observed according to age, ISS, LDH levels, type of relapse, and high-risk FISH. Len exposed patients displayed a PFS advantage as compared to Len refractory patients (29 vs 16 months, p = 0.2876). Similarly, patients treated after Len maintenance showed a better outcome as compared to patients who had received a full-dose Len treatment (23 vs 13 months, p = 0.1728). In conclusion, our real-world data on D-VD combination showed remarkable efficacy in Len-R patients, placing this regimen as one of the standards of care to be properly taken into account in this MM setting.
Long-term outcome of natalizumab-associated progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy in Austria: a nationwide retrospective study
Authors: Moser Tobias , Zimmermann Georg , Baumgartner Anna , Berger Thomas , Bsteh Gabriel , Di Pauli Franziska , Enzinger Christian , Fertl Elisabeth , Heller Thomas , Koppi Stefan , Rommer Paulus S. , Safoschnik Georg , Seifert-Held Thomas , Stepansky Robert , Sellner Johann
Published: September 2023

Background/objective

The use of natalizumab (NAT) in multiple sclerosis (MS) may be complicated by progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a rare and life-threatening opportunistic brain infection. We aimed to analyze the course of MS after PML recovery together with the long-term outcome of NAT-associated PML (NAT-PML) in Austria.

Methods

Retrospective study based on identification of cases in the nationwide Austrian MS treatment registry (AMSTR) and MS centers with review of patient records. The expanded disability status scale (EDSS) was used to measure neurological disability and outcome.

Results

As of December 2022, we identified 15 NAT-PML cases in Austria; only 20% occurred after 2016, when increased vigilance commenced. Two patients did not survive acute PML, and an additional patient died five years later, yielding a mortality rate of 20%. Seizures occurred exclusively in patients with pronounced EDSS increase. Gadolinium (Gd)-enhancement on brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) on PML suspicion was associated with minor changes of post-PML neurological disability. Long-term follow-up of up to 132 months (median 76 months) was available in 11/15. The overall median EDSS increased from 3.5 at pre-PML to 6.5 at the last assessment. Regarding inflammatory MS-related disease activity during the observation period, one single individual experienced an MS relapse and another patient had two Gd-enhancing brain lesions. Three patients converted to progressive MS within three years from PML and the EDSS further increased in 6/11.

Conclusions

The number of NAT-PML cases is decreasing over time. While many patients accumulated severe persistent neurological deficits compared to pre-PML, inflammatory MS-related disease activity after PML recovery was rare.
Deformation, seismicity, and monitoring response preceding and during the 2022 Fagradalsfjall eruption, Iceland
Authors: Parks Michelle , Sigmundsson Freysteinn , Drouin Vincent , Hjartardóttir Ásta R. , Geirsson Halldór , Hooper Andrew , Vogfjörd Kristín S. , Ófeigsson Benedikt G. , Hreinsdóttir Sigrún , Jensen Esther H. , Einarsson Páll , Barsotti Sara , Fridriksdóttir Hildur M.
Published: September 2023

Following two periods of dike intrusion in 2021 at Fagradalsfjall, Iceland, one of which led to an eruption, a third dike intrusion commenced on 30 July 2022. A sudden increase in seismicity occurred within the diking area, with approximately 1700 automatically detected earthquakes > M1 within 24 h. Strong earthquakes were felt over several days within a wider area (largest MW 5.3). The timeline and spatial distribution of seismicity suggested it resulted from diking, together with triggered seismicity in nearby areas releasing stored tectonic stress. Geodetic observations revealed displacements consistent with a dike intrusion, and geodetic modeling on 2 August revealed a best-fit model with a shallow top depth of the dike (~1 km), and high magma inflow rate (~49 m3/s). Also considering a decline in seismicity, a warning was issued that the likelihood of a new eruption in the coming days was high. An effusive eruption started the next day (3 August) on a ~375-m-long fissure, with an initial extrusion rate of 32 m3/s. The projected surface location of the dike (from the optimal model) was within 49–110 m of the eruptive fissure. We present a timeline of the activity and monitoring response in the days both preceding and following the eruption onset. We compare the details of the activity that occurred prior to this diking and eruption to the previous events at Fagradalsfjall to improve understanding of unrest preceding eruptions.
Distributing Persistent Homology via Spectral Sequences
Authors: Torras-Casas Álvaro
Published: September 2023

We set up the theory for a distributed algorithm for computing persistent homology. For this purpose we develop linear algebra of persistence modules. We present bases of persistence modules, together with an operation $$\boxplus $$
⊞
that leads to a method for obtaining images, kernels and cokernels of tame persistence morphisms. Our focus is on developing efficient methods for the computation of homology of chains of persistence modules. Later we give a brief, self-contained presentation of the Mayer–Vietoris spectral sequence. Then we study the Persistent Mayer–Vietoris spectral sequence and present a solution to the extension problem. This solution is given by finding coefficients that indicate gluings between bars on the same dimension. Finally, we review PerMaViss, an algorithm that computes all pages in the spectral sequence and solves the extension problem. This procedure distributes computations on subcomplexes, while focusing on merging homological information. Additionally, some computational bounds are found which confirm the distribution of the method.
Diagnostik und Therapie der Fokal-Segmentalen Glomerulosklerose – 2023
Authors: Gauckler Philipp , Zitt Emanuel , Regele Heinz , Eller Kathrin , Säemann Marcus D. , Lhotta Karl , Neumann Irmgard , Rudnicki Michael , Odler Balazs , Kronbichler Andreas , Zschocke Johannes , Windpessl Martin
Published: September 2023

Der histopathologische Begriff fokal-segmentale Glomerulosklerose umfasst verschiedene Krankheitsprozesse mit dem gemeinsamen Kennzeichen einer großen Proteinurie und dem namensgebenden glomerulären Schädigungsmuster in der Lichtmikroskopie. Eine Einteilung in primäre, sekundäre und genetische Formen anhand der zugrundeliegenden Pathogenese ist daher von großer Relevanz. Die exakte Pathogenese der primären fokal-segmentalen Glomerulosklerose ist ungeklärt, allerdings wird – analog zur Minimal-change Glomerulopathie – eine autoimmun-vermittelte Schädigung der Podozyten angenommen. Angesichts des ähnlichen Pathomechanismus findet zunehmend die vereinende Bezeichnung „Podozytopathie“ Verwendung. Supportive Therapiemaßnahmen zum Erhalt der Nierenfunktion sind bei allen Formen angezeigt. Demgegenüber sollten immunsuppressive Therapien nur bei der primären fokal-segmentalen Glomerulosklerose zum Einsatz kommen. Komplizierte Verläufe umfassen steroid-abhängige, steroid-resistente und häufig relapsierende Formen und erfordern den Einsatz alternativer Therapiestrategien. Die Österreichische Gesellschaft für Nephrologie (ÖGN) stellt hier einen gemeinsamen Konsens darüber vor, wie erwachsene PatientInnen mit fokal-segmentaler Glomerulosklerose am besten diagnostiziert und behandelt werden können.
Allgemeine Empfehlungen für die Behandlung glomerulärer Erkrankungen – 2023
Authors: Windpessl Martin , Gauckler Philipp , Zitt Emanuel , Lhotta Karl , Ay Cihan , Eller Kathrin , Odler Balazs , Neumann Irmgard , Rudnicki Michael , Kronbichler Andreas , Säemann Marcus D.
Published: September 2023

Glomeruläre Erkrankungen sind mit extrarenalen Komplikationen vergesellschaftet, etwa mit thromboembolischen Ereignissen, einem erhöhten kardiovaskulären Risiko und insbesondere einer deutlich erhöhten Neigung zu Infektionen. Daher ist eine genaue Kenntnis der verschiedenen Immunsuppressiva und ihrer typischen Nebenwirkungsprofile von großer Bedeutung. Während Nephrolog:innen mit Calcineurin-Inhibitoren und Antimetaboliten üblicherweise aus der Transplantationsmedizin viel Erfahrung aufweisen, kommen zwei für die Therapie immunmediierter Nierenerkrankungen relevante Wirkstoffe (Rituximab, in schwerwiegenden Fällen auch Cyclophosphamid) vergleichsweise selten zur Anwendung und werden hier vertiefend besprochen. Außerdem werden praxisgerechte Empfehlungen zur Thromboseprophylaxe beim nephrotischen Syndrom sowie zur Vorbeugung einer wichtigen opportunistischen Infektion, der Pneumocystis jirovecii Pneumonie, gegeben.
Stenotrophomonas maltophilia in people with Cystic Fibrosis: a systematic review of prevalence, risk factors and management
Authors: Terlizzi Vito , Tomaselli Marta , Giacomini Giulia , Dalpiaz Irene , Chiappini Elena
Published: September 2023

To summarize the current knowledge of the clinical impact of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (SM) in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. A systematic review according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guideline recommendations, was performed through searches in PubMed and EMBASE databases, and CF National and International Registries websites from 2000 to 2022. Overall, 184 articles were initially retrieved, out of which 15 were selected and included in the review. Data form 6 Registries and 9 pertinent articles from the references of the studies selected were also considered, resulting in 30 studies in total. The prevalence of SM in patients with CF is increasing in Europe while it is declining in North America. The role of chronic colonization of SM on lung function and clinical status in CF patients is still under debate. The most recent studies suggested a pathogenic role of SM chronic infections in CF patients with an acceleration in lung function decline, an increase in hospitalization rates and an association with co-infection. Reflecting the uncertainty about the role of SM in CF, little is available about antibiotic therapeutic strategies for both acute exacerbations and chronic infections. Antimicrobial therapy should be performed in the acute exacerbations, while it may be reasonable to attempt eradication when the first colonization is identified. Nevertheless, it is not established which antibiotic regimen should be preferred, and overtreatment could contribute to the selection of antimicrobial-resistant strains. Further studies are warranted in this regard.
Projected global mercury supply, demand, and excess to 2050 based on impacts of the Minamata Convention
Authors: Sodeno Reiko
Published: September 2023

There is a crucial need to understand the outlook for changes in mercury supply and demand in response to the 2017 entry into force of the Minamata Convention on Mercury. If demand exceeds supply there will be a shortage, but if supply exceeds demand there will be excess mercury, and ultimately the need to prepare for the final disposal of elemental mercury. This study estimates global mercury supply and demand from 2010 to 2050, by region, and projects excess mercury based on recent trends and consideration of impacts of the Convention. The analysis notes a downward trend in both supply and demand, but the supply of mercury from primary mining has not decreased as much as initially expected, while mercury recovery from by-products of nonferrous production has not yet been implemented extensively. Under a business-as-usual projection, there is excess supply until a shortage appears around 2030, but a surplus returns after 2035, and there is a projected excess supply of 59 tons annually in 2050. Relying on the level of mercury recovery in the nonferrous sector, global cumulative stock of excess mercury is projected at 14,439–20,943 tons in 2050.
Frost hardiness of Finnish plus tree progenies of Scots pine from seed orchards in Finland and Ukraine
Authors: Wu Dongxia , Pulkkinen Pertti , Pappinen Ari , Neyko Ihor , Zhang Gang , Di Bao , Heinonen Jaakko , Repo Tapani
Published: September 2023

To avoid the surrounding pollination, seed orchards of Finnish plus trees have been established in Ukraine, i.e., far from their natural distribution. However, it is unknown whether the pollination site affects the frost hardiness (FH) of the progenies and thus their use in forest regeneration in Finland. Using whole-plant freezing tests, we examined the FH of plus tree seed orchard progenies in Finland and Ukraine, with three lots of seeds from each orchard, twice during cold acclimation in controlled conditions. The FH of needles, as assessed immediately after the freezing tests, was higher in the Finnish than Ukrainian seed orchard progenies. The variation in the FH of needles was high among the progenies, ranging from − 44 to − 79 °C by relative electrolyte leakage (REL), and from − 29 to − 46 °C by chlorophyll fluorescence (CF). However, when FH was assessed based on the growth of shoots and roots in the greenhouse after three weeks, the differences between the progenies and orchards disappeared. The FH was then between − 10 and − 15 °C based on shoot growth, between − 6 and − 12 °C based on root growth, and between − 8 and − 16 °C based on the number of new root tips. The results imply an epigenetic effect on FH of needles but no effect of progeny or orchard on FH of roots. In summary, it seems to be possible to use seed produced in southern Ukraine in practical reforestation actions in southern Finland.
Potential individual and interactive effects of climate and land-cover changes on bats and implications for conservation planning: a case study in Vietnam
Authors: Tuan Le Quang , Thong Vu Dinh , Son Nguyen Truong , Tu Vuong Tan , Tuan Tran Anh , Luong Nguyen Thanh , Vy Nguyen Tran , Thanh Hoang Trung , Huang Joe Chun-Chia , Csorba Gábor , Görföl Tamás , Tuanmu Mao-Ning
Published: September 2023

Climate and land-cover changes are among major threats to biodiversity. However, the interactive effects of the two threats are often overlooked in conservation planning. Using 81 bat species occurring in Vietnam as a case, we investigated the individual and interactive effects of climate and land-cover changes, highlighting the importance of this information for conservation efforts. By using species distribution models, we predicted the potential changes in range size among species and in species richness across Vietnam by the 2050s, considering projected climate and land-cover changes under two emission scenarios. Our results revealed that both threats individually would have predominantly negative effects on bats in Vietnam. Moreover, when these threats occur simultaneously, their interactions would generally intensify the impacts by mitigating individual positive effects and/or enhancing negative effects. However, we also found large interspecific and geographic variations in the direction and magnitude of these effects. Forest specialists, insectivores and cave-roosting species were predicted to be particularly vulnerable to the negative effects, with northern and southern Vietnam being more affected. These results underscore the urgent need to incorporate both climate and land-cover changes, as well as their interactions, into conservation planning for bats in Vietnam and biodiversity in general. The species-specific and spatially-explicit information regarding the impacts of the two threats can guide conservation actions, allowing us to target more manageable and less uncertain threats, as well as prioritize the protection of more vulnerable species.
Conceptual Basis for a Sustainable and Fire Resilient Built Environment
Authors: McNamee Margaret , Meacham Brian J.
Published: September 2023

Fire has the potential to create significant impacts on the built environment. Managing this impact is sometimes pursued without consideration of the interface between the natural and technological worlds. However, as society has recognized the impacts of technological development on environmental sustainability, the need for sustainable and resilient development has emerged. To facilitate sustainable and resilient development, technological choices should embrace a sociotechnical systems approach that considers the interactions of society, technology and institutions, and their interactions with the environment. Failure to do so can result in unintended consequences. Society’s technological choices aimed at increasing sustainability of buildings, such as the desire to reduce building carbon footprints or improve the use of renewable energy systems, can have significant impacts on fire resilience if not considered holistically. To better understand and comprehensively address and mitigate intolerable fire risk associated with choices driven by sustainability objectives, a balanced and holistic systems approach is needed. To this end, a framework to foster a systems-oriented approach to improving both sustainability and fire resilience, in tandem, to create a Sustainable and Fire Resilient Built Environment (SAFR-BE) is presented.
Kaminari Kagura: the “lightning bolt shape” technique for posterior vitreous detachment induction
Authors: Caporossi Tomaso , Gambini Gloria , Baldascino Antonio , Scampoli Alessandra , Carlà Matteo Mario , Rizzo Stanislao
Published: September 2023

Purpose

To describe and evaluate the effectiveness of the Kaminari Kagura technique as a posterior hyaloid detachment treatment.

Study design

This was a prospective, consecutive, randomized interventional study.

Methods

This study examined 30 eyes from 30 patients divided into two groups: (1) a Kaminari Kagura group (15 eyes) and (2) a control group (15 eyes) scheduled for vitrectomy with an optical coherence tomography (OCT)-based diagnosis of adherent posterior hyaloid.

Results

The mean time for posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) induction in the Kaminari Kagura group was 58 ± 6.6 s, and that in the control group was 69 ± 9 s (p < 0.005). No intra- or post-operative complications were reported.

Conclusions

The Kaminari Kagura technique results in effective posterior hyaloid detachment in less time than that required for posterior vitreous cortex engagement.
The influence of an internal variable heat source on the perfect contact of three thermoelastic layers characterized by hereditary features
Authors: Sherief H. , Abd El-Latief A. M. , Fayik M.
Published: September 2023

In this work, we present a two-dimensional problem of thermoelastic and thermo-viscoelastic materials which consists of three thick layers with a finite thickness and infinite extent. These layers are placed in a perfect contact one on top of another. The outer surfaces of the layers are assumed to be thermally isolated and rigidly fixed. There is a disturbed variable heat source filling the middle layer. Continuity conditions between the layers ensure the continuity of the temperature, normal heat flux, displacement, and normal stresses across layers. Laplace and exponential Fourier transforms are used to solve the problem. Inverse transforms are computed numerically to obtain the solution in the physical domain. Graphical results are presented and discussed for all variable fields.
A machine learning approach to predicting plant available phosphorus that accounts for soil heterogeneity and regional variability
Authors: Hall Rebecca L. , de Santana Felipe Bachion , Grunsky Eric C. , Browne Margaret A. , Lowe Victoria , Fitzsimons Mairéad , Higgins Suzanne , Gallagher Vincent , Daly Karen
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Mehlich-3 extractable P, Al, Ca, and Fe combined with pH can be used to help explain soil chemical processes which regulate P retention, such as the role of Al, Ca, Fe, and pH levels in P fixation and buffering capacity. However, Mehlich-3 is not always the standard test used in agriculture. The objective of this study is to assess the most reliable conversion of Mehlich-3 Al, Ca, Fe, and P and pH into a commonly used soil P test, Morgan’s P, and specifically to predict values into decision support for fertiliser recommendations.

Methods

A geochemical database of 5631 mineral soil samples which covered the northern area of Ireland was used to model soil test P and P indices using Mehlich-3 data.

Results

A random forest machine learning algorithm produced an R2 of 0.96 and accurately predicted soil P index from external validation in 90% of samples (with an error range of ± 1 mg L−1). The model accuracy was reduced when predicted Morgan’s P concentration was outside of the sampled area.

Conclusions

It is recommended that random forest is used to produce Mehlich-3 conversions, especially when data covers large spatial scales with large heterogeneity in soil types and regional variations. To implement conversion models into P testing regimes, it is recommended that representative soil types/geochemical attributes are present in the dataset. Furthermore, completion of a national scale geochemical survey is needed. This will enable accurate predictions of Morgan’s P concentration for a wider range of soils and geographical scale.
Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy: from Preclinical Models to Genotype–phenotype Correlation and Pathophysiology
Authors: Fan Xuehui , Yang Guoqiang , Duru Firat , Grilli Maurizio , Akin Ibrahim , Zhou Xiaobo , Saguner Ardan Muammer , EI-Battrawy Ibrahim
Published: September 2023

Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) is a hereditary myocardial disease characterized by the replacement of the ventricular myocardium with fibrous fatty deposits. ACM is usually inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern with variable penetrance and expressivity, which is mainly related to ventricular tachyarrhythmia and sudden cardiac death (SCD). Importantly, significant progress has been made in determining the genetic background of ACM due to the development of new techniques for genetic analysis. The exact molecular pathomechanism of ACM, however, is not completely clear and the genotype–phenotype correlations have not been fully elucidated, which are useful to predict the prognosis and treatment of ACM patients. Different gene-targeted and transgenic animal models, human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocyte (hiPSC-CM) models, and heterologous expression systems have been developed. Here, this review aims to summarize preclinical ACM models and platforms promoting our understanding of the pathogenesis of ACM and assess their value in elucidating the ACM genotype–phenotype relationship.

Graphical Abstract
Isolation and application of the novel Aspergillus nidulans (OD1) for nanocellulose production from some agro-cellulosic wastes
Authors: Darwesh Osama M. , Habib Youstina M. , Gharieb Mohamed M. , Matter Ibrahim A.
Published: September 2023

Microbial nanotechnology is currently helping to address human needs in many areas of life. One of these fields is the production of cellulose nanomaterials, which are used in many medical, agricultural, environmental and industrial applications. In this study, the novel strain Aspergillus nidulans optical density 1 (OD1) was isolated as cellulolytic fungus that has the ability to convert cellulose into nanocellulose through partial degradation under optimized conditions. The optimization conditions include incubation of fungal pellets with the microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) for 4 h at pH 6 with addition of 1 mM of Zn and 2 mM of Mn ions. Furthermore, feedback inhibition for exocellulase and B-glucosidase activity was performed to the concentrated cellulases of A. nidulans in order to prevent the complete degradation of cellulose, hence increasing nanocellulose yield. The better results of enzyme feedback inhibition were obtained due to addition of 1% of cellobiose and 2% glucose for the enzyme/MCC mixture for 4 h. The concentrated A. nidulans cellulases were applied to produce nanocellulose from cotton fibers as well as rice straw as common agricultural cellulosic materials and wastes. According to Transmission electron microscope (TEM) and particle size distribution, the average particle sizes of nanocellulose were (9–20) nm and (2–17) nm for cotton fibers and rice straw wastes, respectively. The obtained results revealed that nanocellulose can be biosynthesized using fungal cellulases produced under optimized conditions using cellulosic materials available as agricultural wastes. Further investigation of the produced cellulose nanomaterials can be conducted to demonstrate its compatibility with various medical, environmental, and industrial applications.
Cobalt: corporate concentration 1975–2018
Authors: Ericsson Magnus , Löf Anton , Löf Olof , Müller Daniel B.
Published: September 2023

The world’s dependency on cobalt mines in Congo and cobalt refineries in China is seen as serious security issues with potentially dangerous implications for the energy transition. However, Chinese refineries have a similar supply security issue as most of its cobalt concentrates are imported. Most supply security studies take a country perspective on market concentration and supply risks. However, control of the mines and refineries lies with the producing companies, not the governments of the countries where they are located. This paper analyses the corporate structure of the cobalt industry at the mine and the refinery stages over a longer time period to establish changes in the level of corporate concentration and to put the situation in 2018 in perspective. The level of corporate concentration at the mine stage is low and does not raise concerns for market failures or a lack of competitiveness. Corporate concentration of refined cobalt depends on the Chinese government’s influence over Chinese production: if the state control over individual refineries is assumed to be strong, the corporate concentration is high. Mine stage supply security could be strengthened by improving the general political stability in the DRC to make the country more attractive for investors other than the present ones. Increased local beneficiation would strongly benefit Congo and reduce China’s influence. This is a long and complicated process and its success is not at all certain. At the refinery stage, the solution is much easier: reliability of supply could be improved by constructing refineries in countries outside China.