bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The roles of patient‐derived xenograft models and artificial intelligence toward precision medicine
Authors: Janitri Venkatachalababu , ArulJothi Kandasamy Nagarajan , Ravi Mythili Vijay Murali , Singh Sachin Kumar , Prasher Parteek , Gupta Gaurav , Dua Kamal , Hanumanthappa Rakshith , Kaliappan Karthikeyan , Anand Krishnan
Published: September 2024

Patient‐derived xenografts (PDX) involve transplanting patient cells or tissues into immunodeficient mice, offering superior disease models compared with cell line xenografts and genetically engineered mice. In contrast to traditional cell‐line xenografts and genetically engineered mice, PDX models harbor the molecular and biologic features from the original patient tumor and are generationally stable. This high fidelity makes PDX models particularly suitable for preclinical and coclinical drug testing, therefore better predicting therapeutic efficacy. Although PDX models are becoming more useful, the several factors influencing their reliability and predictive power are not well understood. Several existing studies have looked into the possibility that PDX models could be important in enhancing our knowledge with regard to tumor genetics, biomarker discovery, and personalized medicine; however, a number of problems still need to be addressed, such as the high cost and time‐consuming processes involved, together with the variability in tumor take rates. This review addresses these gaps by detailing the methodologies to generate PDX models, their application in cancer research, and their advantages over other models. Further, it elaborates on how artificial intelligence and machine learning were incorporated into PDX studies to fast‐track therapeutic evaluation. This review is an overview of the progress that has been done so far in using PDX models for cancer research and shows their potential to be further improved in improving our understanding of oncogenesis.
A Spring Model for Pullout Behavior of Curved, Flexible Structures Embedded in Soil
Authors: Burrall Matthew , DeJong Jason T. , Martinez Alejandro , Kwon Tae‐Hyuk
Published: September 2024

The shape and flexibility of embedded structures, such as tree roots, piles, and anchors, have important impacts on the pullout behavior. However, the rate and manner of mobilization of soil resistances along such structures has not been rigorously explored across a wide range of shapes and structural properties. A spring model for computing compatible displacements of the structure and soil for curved, flexible structures is defined, validated against commonly used methods for computing pile pullout behavior, and then parametrically explored to demonstrate how resistances are mobilized along the length of such structures. The present model allows description of combined axial and transverse loading of these nonlinear structures. The simulation results for the case of normally consolidated clay show that the curvature of a structure causes the distribution of bearing resistance to extend further along the structure than for linear cases. The requirement of equilibrium of the structure produces a coupling between the mobilized bearing and tensile resistance in terms of rate of development and magnitude. Thus, the choices of structure shape impact the magnitude and distribution of mobilized resistance of embedded flexible structures. Implications for anchorage of tree root structures and principles of bioinspired design of anchorage systems are discussed.
Computational Simulation and Experimental Analysis on Wearing Mechanisms of Gypsum and Concrete Samples in Pin‐on‐Disk ASTM Abrasion Testing
Authors: Fu Jinwei , Sarfarazi Vahab , Haeri Hadi , Tolaminejad Behzad , Abharian Soheil , Rasekh Haleh , Khandelwal Manoj , Fatehi Marji Mohammad
Published: September 2024

Mechanical excavation machines, like continuous miners and road headers, have been broadly used in tunneling and underground and surface mines. The disc cutters are seated on the different cutter heads’ to cut different parts of the tunnel face. With the increase in the cutters’ size and power, the cutting disc cutters’ capacity has been extended to cut moderate and tough rock types. This experimental and numerical research includes the application of, “Pin‐on‐Disk” ASTM abrasion testing, in which the failure mechanism of an interface between both the rock‐like samples and (WC–Co) tungsten carbide has been investigated under different confining pressures. The research aims to investigate the wear mechanism of gypsum and concrete samples. The Particle Flow Code in three dimensions (PFC3D) was used for test simulations concurrently with the experimental setup. A drilling pin with a diameter of 0.4 m was positioned above the model. The pin was inserted into the model at speeds of 0.01 mm/s at depths of 1, 3, and 5 m. A total of nine lab tests were conducted. The tensile strength of the material was 2.5 MPa. The results show that the values of volume lost for the gypsum and concrete discs were detected as a function of sliding length, fitting to non‐linear behavior. The wearing depth increased by increasing the loading force. Under constant loading force, the gypsum sample wears more than the concrete sample because gypsum is less strong than concrete. The PFC generates useful findings that experimental tests cannot provide.
ChatGPT Generated Otorhinolaryngology Multiple‐Choice Questions: Quality, Psychometric Properties, and Suitability for Assessments
Authors: Lotto Cecilia , Sheppard Sean C. , Anschuetz Wilma , Stricker Daniel , Molinari Giulia , Huwendiek Sören , Anschuetz Lukas
Published: September 2024

Objective

To explore Chat Generative Pretrained Transformer's (ChatGPT's) capability to create multiple‐choice questions about otorhinolaryngology (ORL).

Study Design

Experimental question generation and exam simulation.

Setting

Tertiary academic center.

Methods

ChatGPT 3.5 was prompted: “Can you please create a challenging 20‐question multiple‐choice questionnaire about clinical cases in otolaryngology, offering five answer options?.” The generated questionnaire was sent to medical students, residents, and consultants. Questions were investigated regarding quality criteria. Answers were anonymized and the resulting data was analyzed in terms of difficulty and internal consistency.

Results

ChatGPT 3.5 generated 20 exam questions of which 1 question was considered off‐topic, 3 questions had a false answer, and 3 questions had multiple correct answers. Subspecialty theme repartition was as follows: 5 questions were on otology, 5 about rhinology, and 10 questions addressed head and neck. The qualities of focus and relevance were good while the vignette and distractor qualities were low. The level of difficulty was suitable for undergraduate medical students (n = 24), but too easy for residents (n = 30) or consultants (n = 10) in ORL. Cronbach's α was highest (.69) with 15 selected questions using students' results.

Conclusion

ChatGPT 3.5 is able to generate grammatically correct simple ORL multiple choice questions for a medical student level. However, the overall quality of the questions was average, needing thorough review and revision by a medical expert to ensure suitability in future exams.
The impact of language discordance on pediatric cancer care outcomes: A systematic review
Authors: Robles Joanna M. , Ruiz Jenny , Correa Ramon , Dinescu‐Munoz Nicole , Patel Chandni , Noyd David , Alvarez Monica , Frost Erin , Ledbetter Leila , LeBlanc Thomas W.
Published: September 2024

Language discordance between clinicians and families in pediatrics has been associated with adverse events and lower quality of care. We aimed to summarize the existing literature evaluating the impact of language discordance among healthcare professionals and families within pediatric oncology by conducting a systematic review. Of 8364 studies, 43 studies met eligibility for inclusion in this review. These studies highlight the impact of language discordance on pediatric cancer care outcomes, including communication challenges, obstacles to research participation, and potentially higher risk disease features at presentation. Healthcare professionals endorsed inconsistent professional interpreter use and lack of formal training on communicating via interpreters. Interventions to address barriers to language‐appropriate care are sparse. Further research is warranted to design and implement interventions promoting language justice and provision of high‐quality, equitable pediatric cancer care for all families.
Adherence outcomes of a liquid hydroxyurea delivery program in a pediatric population
Authors: Sacta Maria A. , Sarvode Supriya , Kehasse Amanuel , Mothi Suraj Sarvode , Shah Bhavesh , Sobota Amy
Published: September 2024

Background

Hydroxyurea remains underutilized in the pediatric sickle cell population despite its well‐known efficacy in decreasing sickle cell complications and hospitalizations. Access to refills and liquid formulation remains a critical barrier to adherence to hydroxyurea regimens. This study was undertaken to determine the clinical impact of home‐delivering compounded liquid hydroxyurea (LHU) to pediatric patients with sickle cell disease.

Procedure/methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using electronic health records and pharmacy databases. Pediatric patients younger than 21 years of age at the time of hydroxyurea initiation from March 2016 to July 2020 who received compounded LHU from Boston Medical Center Pharmacy were included. The primary outcomes of the study were drug adherence (assessed by evaluating the proportion of days covered [PDC]), rates of acute care utilization before and after enrolling in the LHU delivery program.

Results

The final cohort included 41 patients, showing a significant decrease in hospitalizations (p = .01) and acute chest syndrome episodes (p = .03) after the initiation of the LHU delivery program. In comparing hydroxyurea‐naïve patients with those previously exposed to hydroxyurea, the latter group had lower hospitalization rates (p = .01), fewer vaso‐occlusive event (VOE) episodes (p = .02), and fewer emergency department (ED) visits (p = .01). The median PDC value 1 year post initiation of LHU was 95.

Conclusions

Home delivery of compounded LHU from the pharmacy to pediatric sickle cell disease patients improved access to hydroxyurea, and was linked to reduced hospitalizations and acute chest syndrome episodes. This advancement in cost savings and improved patient outcomes is a significant step forward in pediatric hematology. By overcoming access barriers, home delivery programs can greatly enhance outcomes among pediatric patients with sickle cell disease.
Synthesis of boron nitride@copper oxide‐based light‐curing resin composites: Investigating mechanical and antibacterial properties
Authors: Li Shuya , Liu Dawei , Shi Zegang , Yu Wenyi , Yang Tingting , Bai Yufeng , He Tianlu , Peng Tai
Published: September 2024

With the improvement of health awareness, people have higher expectations for environmental safety, especially in public areas that are inevitably exposed to in daily life. This study focuses on developing a novel inorganic filler, hydroxylated boron nitride nanorods (BNNR‐OH) loaded with copper oxide (CuO) (BNNR‐OH@CuO), to enhance light‐curing resin’ antibacterial and mechanical properties. BNNR‐OH@CuO was synthesized by hydrothermal method. X‐ray diffractometry (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR) and X‐ray photoelectron spectrometer (XPS) were used to characterize the crystal structure, surface morphology and bonding composition of the prepared nanocomposites. In addition, the complex was evaluated and compared for antibacterial activity against Gram‐positive, such as Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Gram‐negative, such as Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria. Recreciprocating friction wear testing machine and electronic universal testing machine are used to detect the friction properties and tensile strength of the complex. The results showed that the resin sample doped with BNNR‐OH@CuO‐3 (the molar ratio of BNNR‐OH to Cu2+ is 0.75:1) had strong antibacterial properties, and achieved 99.9% and 93.3% against E. coli and S. aureus, respectively. Compared with the pure resin sample, the friction coefficient of the doped BNNR‐OH@CuO‐3 resin sample is increased by 70%, the wear spot diameter is reduced by 12.2%, the tensile strength and the elongation at break are increased by 25% and 21.6%, respectively. This study, therefore, presents a significant stride toward the innovation in light‐curing resin applications.

Highlights

The BNNR‐OH@CuO composite was successfully prepared.

The antibacterial rate of the composite against E. coli was 99.9%.

The antibacterial rate of the composite against S. aureus was 93.3%.

Friction coefficient rose 70%, wear point diameter fell 12.2%.

Tensile strength and elongation of the composite increased by 25% and 21.6%.
Investigation of high‐strain rate behavior of shear thickening fluid encapsulated electrospun ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene/high‐density polyethylene fiber composites by split‐Hopkinson pressure bar
Authors: Nayak Prajesh , Ghosh Anup K. , Bhatnagar Naresh
Published: September 2024

This study examines the high‐strain rate behavior of shear thickening fluid (STF)‐encapsulated samples of an electrospun mat. It comprises sandwich layers of STF‐impregnated ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE)/high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) mat enclosed within high‐temperature stretched electrospun neat UHMWPE fabric. The UHMWPE/HDPE mat was chosen for STF impregnation due to its porosity and the texture of its fiber surface, which contains pores, pits, wrinkles, and grooves ranging in size from nano‐ to micron‐scale. This feature enhances the adhesion and absorption of STF into the fiber structure and onto the fiber surface. These STF‐contained and corresponding neat samples were tested using an in‐house‐designed split‐Hopkinson pressure bar. The deformation and fracture behavior of samples were also monitored simultaneously using a high‐speed camera. The results showed that at a higher strain rate, the peak stress and energy absorption of STF‐encapsulated samples were more elevated due to increased inter‐fiber friction, unlike neat samples, which show a declining trend in peak stress and energy absorption due to yarn slippage. Moreover, the deformation during impact in neat samples was higher than in the STF‐encapsulated samples.

Highlights

Electrospun ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene and its HDPE blended fibers

Interconnected pores and pits facilitated shear thickening fluid (STF) impregnation.

STF‐encapsulation improved peak stress and toughness at high‐strain rates.
Effect of diffusion limitation on the kinetics of epoxy‐amine curing reaction
Authors: Chen Huanhuan , Zhou Juan , Chen Liping , Chen Wanghua
Published: September 2024

The reaction kinetics and mechanism are prone to affect the properties of the epoxy resins. However, achieving a comprehensive understanding of the curing kinetics presents a challenge, attributed to the multistage exothermic characteristic and the complex viscosity growth regime. This study investigated the kinetics and the rheological characteristics of the curing process of diglycid ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA) and dimethyldicyane (DMDC) with varying content of xylene. The results indicate that diffusion limitation of the epoxy‐amine system is effectively mitigated with increasing xylene content, which results in a higher curing degree and released energy. Subsequently, the density functional theory method was used to investigate the molecular‐level mechanism underlying the epoxy‐amine curing reaction. The interaction between hydroxyl groups and epoxides lowers the energy barrier during the curing, thus there are autocatalytic kinetic characteristics during process. The curing rate during the reaction‐controlled stage is consistent with the characteristics described by the Kamal model, whereas the Kamal model incorporating the diffusion factor can describe the curing rate across the conversion range. This study comprehensively reveals the impact of diffusion on the curing kinetics of epoxy amine reaction, providing valuable perspectives for practical applications in industrial production.
PDE‐based containment control of linear multi‐agent systems
Authors: Deutscher Joachim , Jung Nick
Published: September 2024

This contribution considers the containment control problem for linear multi‐agent systems (MAS) using continuum models in form of linear parabolic PDEs. For this, a networked controller is designed, that ensures the asymptotic convergence of finite‐dimensional agents into a containment area specified by dynamic leaders. This problem is traced back to an output regulation problem for a continuum model independent of the number of agents, which also takes disturbances into account. A prescribed formation is assigned for the MAS in the containment area by using Bézier curves. Using bilateral backstepping a tracking controller is designed, which allows to distribute the control effort between the two boundary agents. The states are estimated by an infinite‐dimensional disturbance observer. For this, both a folding observer with network communication and two boundary observers without network communication are introduced. A fully distributed solution of the containment control problem is obtained by employing a continuum signal model observer, which communicates the states of the leader and disturbance model to all agents. The desired communication topology is imposed after the design by a spatial discretization. A simulation example illustrates the effectiveness of the new method for the networked controller design.
Zinc Tellurium with Anionic Vacancies Anchored on Ordered Macroporous Carbon Skeleton Enabling Accelerated Polysulfide Conversion for Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Wu Xiangpeng , Xie Wenchang , Zhao Mincai , Cai Daoping , Yang Mingquan , Xie Rongjun , Zhang Chaoqi , Chen Qidi , Zhan Hongbing
Published: September 2024

Lithium–sulfur batteries (LSBs) showcase great promise for large‐scale energy storage systems, however, their practical commercialization is seriously hindered by the sluggish redox reaction kinetics and detrimental shuttle effect of soluble polysulfides. Herein, small ZnTe1‐x nanoparticles with anionic vacancies firmly anchored on 3D ordered macroporous N‐doped carbon skeleton (3DOM‐ZnTe1‐x@NC) are elaborately constructed as a high‐efficiency electrocatalyst for LSBs. The ordered macroporous carbon skeleton not only greatly increases the external surface area to expose sufficient active sites but also facilitates the electrolyte penetration. Additionally, the experimental studies combined with theoretical calculations confirm the presence of Te vacancies optimizes the electronic structure to enhance the intrinsic catalytic activity and chemical absorption. Consequently, LSBs assembled with the 3DOM‐ZnTe1‐x@NC modified separators exhibit high specific discharge capacity, as well as superior rate performance and good long‐term cycling stability. Even under a high sulfur loading of 6.5 mg cm−2 and lean electrolyte, an impressive areal capacity of 5.28 mAh cm−2 is achieved at 0.1 C after 100 cycles. More significantly, the 3DOM‐ZnTe1‐x@NC based pouch cells are also fabricated to demonstrate its potential for practical applications. This work highlights that the rational combination of 3DOM architecture and vacancy engineering is important for designing advanced Li–S electrocatalysts.
Progress of Hole‐Transport Layers in Mixed Sn‐Pb Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Sun Yujia , Lai Yibin , Yang Yang (Michael)
Published: September 2024

Hybrid organic–inorganic lead halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have rapidly emerged as a promising photovoltaic technology, with record efficiencies surpassing 26%, approaching the theoretical Shockley‐Queisser limit. The advent of all‐perovskite tandem solar cells (APTSCs), integrating Pb‐based wide‐bandgap (WBG) with mixed Sn‐Pb narrow‐bandgap (NBG) perovskites, presents a compelling pathway to surpass this limit. Despite recent innovations in hole transport layers (HTLs) that have significantly improved the efficiency and stability of lead‐based PSCs, an effective HTL tailored for Sn‐Pb NBG PSCs remains an unmet need. This review highlights the essential role of HTLs in enhancing the performance of Sn‐Pb PSCs, focusing on their ability to mitigate non‐radiative recombination and optimize the buried interface, thereby improving film quality. The distinct attributes of Sn‐Pb perovskites, such as their lower energy levels and accelerated crystallization rates, necessitate HTLs with specialized properties. In this study, the latest advancements in HTLs are systematically examined for Sn‐Pb PSCs, encompassing organic, self‐assembled monolayer (SAM), inorganic materials, and HTL‐free designs. The review critically assesses the inherent limitations of each HTL category, and finally proposes strategies to surmount these obstacles to reach higher device performance.
Black Tea Suppresses Invasiveness and Reverses TNF‐α‐Induced Invasiveness and Cell Stemness in Human Malignant Melanoma Cells
Authors: Lin Chin‐Yin , Chu Shu‐Chen , Hsieh Yih‐Shou , Tsai Wen‐Yi , Chen Pei‐Ni
Published: September 2024

Invasiveness and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) are main patterns of metastatic disease, which is the major cause cancer‐related mortality in human malignant melanoma cells. Tea and its consumption extract are associated with a lower risk of several types of cancer and have anti‐inflammatory and antioxidative biological effects. However, the anti‐EMT and anti‐cancer stemness effect of black tea ethanol extracts (BTEE) in human melanoma remain poorly understood. In this study, the effects of BTEE‐reduced invasiveness, EMT, and cancer stemness were evaluated in human A 375 and A2058 melanoma cells. BTEE inhibited the activity of u‐PA, migration, and invasiveness by repressing p‐FAK signaling pathway. BTEE affected the EMT by downregulating the expression of β‐catenin, N‐cadherin, fibronectin, vimentin, and Twist‐1. BTEE also reduced tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α)‐induced invasiveness and cancer stemness characteristics in vitro. The growth of melanoma in nude mice xenograft model showed that BTEE suppressed A 375 tumor growth in vivo.
Postnatal outcome of fetal cortical malformations: systematic review
Authors: Abadia‐Cuchi N. , Felici F. , Frassanito P. , Arulkumaran S. , Familiari A. , Thilaganathan B.
Published: September 2024

Objective

Parental counseling for fetal malformations of cortical development (MCD) is based on data from studies in children and adults undergoing imaging investigation for abnormal neurodevelopment. However, such postnatal findings may not be applicable to prenatally diagnosed cases. The aim of this study was to review the existing data on postnatal neurodevelopmental outcome for fetuses diagnosed with MCD.

Methods

A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science and EMBASE for articles published between 2013 and 2023, using standardized keywords to describe fetal cortical malformations. Full‐text articles were accessed for the retrieved citations and data on participant characteristics, imaging findings, and pregnancy and neonatal outcomes were extracted. Fetal MCD was defined as either complex or isolated, according to the presence or absence, respectively, of additional brain or extracranial defects.

Results

Overall, 30 articles including 371 cases of fetal MCD were reviewed. The cases were classified as complex (n = 324), isolated (n = 21) or unknown (n = 26). There were 144 terminations and four stillbirths, with pregnancy outcome unreported in 149 cases. A total of 108 cases had postnatal magnetic resonance imaging or postmortem examination data available. In nine of these cases, a diagnosis of complex fetal MCD was changed to isolated MCD after birth, and one case was found not to have MCD. There were 74 live births, for which postnatal neurodevelopment data were available in only 30 cases. Normal neurodevelopmental outcome was reported in seven (23.3% (95% CI, 9.9–42.2%)) infants, with the remaining 23 exhibiting various levels of neurodevelopmental delay (three mild, seven moderate and 13 severe) from 6 months to 7 years of age.

Conclusions

Most reviewed cases of fetal MCD were complex in nature and underwent termination of pregnancy. There is a paucity of data on postnatal neurological development in fetuses diagnosed with MCD. The available data suggest antenatal overdiagnosis of case severity in about 5% of cases with known outcome, and either normal neurodevelopment or mild neurodevelopmental delay in approximately one‐third of liveborn cases with neurological follow‐up. © 2024 The Author(s). Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Exclusion and persecution: The Rohingya crisis through the lens of nationalism, statelessness, and violence
Authors: Kamal Rifat Darina , Kaiser Z. R. M. Abdullah , Mariano Kad
Published: September 2024

The brutal military crackdown in Myanmar's Rakhine state caused more than 1 million Rohingya refugees to flee to Bangladesh. By analyzing the tripartite relationship between nationalism, violence, and statelessness, this commentary examines how Myanmar's political exclusion of the Rohingya contributed to their stateless condition and led to an ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region. The study argues that the Rohingya are stateless because of Myanmar's state‐sanctioned ethnic discrimination premised on nationalist conceptions of the country as a uniquely Burmese and Buddhist nation‐state. The state systematically justifies the Rohingya's precarity within Myanmar society to promote an imagined national homogeneity.
Paradata in Emergency Services Communications Systems
Authors: Cohen Megan , Jordan Jardi Martinez , Sotebeer M. Scott , Stiber Michael
Published: September 2024

Government provides a variety of critical services, often grounded in decades-old technology. As these services evolve to encompass newer technologies and offer broader capabilities, their exposure to potential threats increases the importance of modeling and simulation to understand their operation and vulnerabilities. This modeling activity requires access to records collected by government agencies, conceptualized formally in terms of archival science. However, the archival science concept of paradata is insufficient to support the forensic reconstruction of the real world required by a modeling effort. This chapter outlines how iterative, interdisciplinary work to model and simulate emergency services communication systems illuminates the need for a new role for paradata in government archives.
Adding Paradata About Records Processes via Information Control Plans
Authors: Packalén Saara , Henttonen Pekka
Published: September 2024

To ensure evidence and to control systematically records’ life span in digital environment, we need additional data about records’ background, history, and actions creating those records. National and international specifications typically set requirements for metadata and functionality that an electronic records management system must have. Creation of metadata is resource consuming. One solution to this problem is to hide and automate records management processes. The chapter examines how this has been done in Finnish public administration. Firstly, the chapter contributes to discussion about description of records management processes and adds understanding of possibilities for adding metadata to records. Secondly, we aim to stir up interest toward the use of a concept paradata in recordkeeping and invite discussion of benefits of understanding some of recordkeeping metadata as paradata. While paradata is not an established term in archives and records management, it is a befitting concept to describe information that is gathered about records during their life span.
Paradata for Digitization Processes and Digital Scholarly Editions
Authors: Dillen Wout
Published: September 2024

As libraries and archives are increasingly digitizing their collections, their resulting digital reproductions are now also reused in various research outputs. Because their patrons typically come from diverse backgrounds, however, many of them lack the necessary experience with the intricacies of the digitization process to judge how this process may have affected the quality of the reproductions they intend to (re)use. Without easily comprehensible paradata (i.e., data that indicates how they were made), patrons have no choice but to take these digital objects at face value—which is a problematic research practice. To illustrate some of the ways in which the digitization process may affect the reproduction, this chapter discusses a case study where a researcher commissioned the digitization of a collection of manuscripts held by various memory institutions across Sweden. By zooming in on how quality standards are negotiated between researchers and library staff in a specific digitization project, and the problems they needed to resolve along the way, this chapter examines which types of paradata could be useful to contextualize digitization processes and gives a concrete suggestion how the reusers of those digital reproductions could in turn provide essential paradata to contextualize their own research outputs.
Superstructure of Discourse and Cohesion in Narratives Spoken by People with Alzheimer’s
Authors: Azkiya Nailah , Yuwono Untung
Published: September 2024

Alzheimer’s is part of dementia, a symptom of memory loss commonly known as senility. Alzheimer’s will initially distract memory, then disrupt language skills. The disruption in language skills is mainly due to reduced memory of the language form and vocabulary. In addition, memory disorders also affect the reduction in language skills because people with Alzheimer’s lose things they have remembered and understood to the point of being unable to express their thoughts in the language form. This study analyzes the superstructure and cohesion in narratives spoken by people with Alzheimer's. The purpose of this study is to explain the narrative superstructure and cohesive device used by people with Alzheimer’s in their narratives. This research uses a qualitative method. The subjects in this study were elderlies with Alzheimer’s who live in a nursing home in East Jakarta. It was a large government-owned social institution that accommodated large numbers of patients from various backgrounds. The data were collected by conducting open interviews to elderlies with Alzheimer’s in several levels of seriousness based on the results from the Mini Mental Status Exam (MMSE) test; namely, those with mild Alzheimer’s and serious Alzheimer’s. Those who match the criteria were randomly chosen, resulting in three selected respondents with Alzheimer’s as the samples. Then they were given two questions as the trigger for their stories, which are, “What was the most happily experience in your life?” and “What was the most sinister experience in your life?” It is found that narratives produced by people with mild Alzheimer’s have a complete narrative structure, which are orientation, complication, evaluation, resolution, and coda. On the other side, people with serious Alzheimer’s could not produce narratives without guidance. Narratives about unpleasant experiences are more remembered than narratives about pleasant experiences. In addition, the cohesion that is commonly used by people with Alzheimer’s are references, substitutions, and conjunctions. The research result shows the aspects of language that can be maintaned by people with mild Alzheimer’s. It gives an implication in how medical practioners handle the language maintenance of the people with mild Alzheimer’s. The decreased ability of mild Alzheimer’s to narrate and use cohesive device can signalize the worsening of Alzheimer’s. Furthermore, by continuously encouraging people with Alzheimer’s to tell memorable things in their lives, it would be possible to slow down the degeneration process as they are invited to recall their memories perpetually.
Alteration Zones as Exploration Parameters for Stratiform Pb-Zn-Ag-Ba Deposits in the Graz Paleozoic (Eastern Alps, Austria)
Authors: Rohrhofer Sandro , Geringer Annika , Melcher Frank , Schuster Ralf
Published: September 2024

In the Graz Paleozoic in the Eastern Alps (Austria), stratiform Pb-Zn-Ag-Ba deposits have been mined in the past. They are classified as sedimentary-exhalative (SEDEX) deposits and are hosted by polyphase deformed greenschist facies metasediments and volcanics of the Schönberg Formation (Schöckel nappe; Drauzug-Gurktal nappe system), which is upper Silurian to Lower Devonian in age. The stratiform ore horizons are dominated by galena, sphalerite, barite, pyrite, pyrrhotite, and magnetite and are accompanied by chalcopyrite, arsenopyrite, fahlore, pyrargyrite, tetradymite, cobaltite, ullmannite, breithauptite, electrum, and others. The project MRI_SEDEXPOT investigates these deposits to evaluate their exploration potential by focusing on hydrothermal alteration zones occurring in the footwall and hanging wall of the ore. Such alteration zones are globally used as exploration tools not only for SEDEX deposits. The investigated alteration zones show distinct mineralogical and geochemical characteristics. They contain Fe rich carbonates and chlorite, K‑ and Ba-feldspars, Ba bearing white mica, fluorapatite, REE and HFSE minerals. Disseminated sulphides are widespread, and albitization is typical below sulphide rich horizons. Geochemical profiles correlate well with the observed mineralogy. Ongoing investigations of these alteration zones should lead into defining proximity indicators to the ore and evaluation of the exploration potential of the stratiform Pb-Zn-Ba-Ag deposits of the Graz Paleozoic.
PM4Onco: personalisierte Medizin für die Onkologie
Authors: Pflugradt L. , Metzger P. , Gräßel L. , Strantz C. , Blaumeiser A. , Busch H. , Steinwachs M. , Illert A. L. , Zeissig S. R. , Boerries M.
Published: September 2024

Das Verbundprojekt Personalisierte Medizin für die Onkologie (PM4Onco), das 2023 als Anwendungsfall der Medizininformatik-Initiative (MII) im Rahmen der Nationalen Dekade gegen Krebs (NDK) initiiert wurde, zielt darauf ab, eine nachhaltige Infrastruktur zur Integration und Nutzung von Daten aus der klinischen Routine und biomedizinischen Forschung für die personalisierte Medizin (PM) aufzubauen. Die bereitgestellten Daten werden in geeigneter Form von PM4Onco aufbereitet, um die Entscheidungsfindung in molekularen Tumorboards (MTB) zu unterstützen und deren Erfolg zu messen. MTB sind ein entscheidendes Instrument in der PM zur individualisierten, translationalen Versorgung von Krebspatient:innen. Hauptziel von MTB ist die Verarbeitung komplexer molekularer Daten, um individuelle Therapieansätze zu identifizieren und die Wirksamkeit stratifizierter Therapieansätze zu beweisen. Eine komplementäre Rolle übernehmen die klinischen Krebsregister, die die Qualität der Patientendaten durch standardisierte Dokumentationsroutinen, Nachuntersuchungen sowie Behandlungsergebnisse signifikant erweitern und verbessern können. Klinische Expert:innen sind in die Weiterentwicklung der standardisierten Kerndatensätze für die PM einbezogen. Einen wichtigen Beitrag liefern zudem die Informationen zu Lebensqualität und Behandlungserfolg, die Patient:innen über Fragebögen rückmelden, ein wichtiges Erfolgskriterium, das außerhalb klinischer Studien kaum erfasst wird. Patientenvertreter:innen begleiten das Projekt, um die wichtige Perspektive der Betroffenen bei der Projektsteuerung einzubeziehen. PM4Onco vereint somit die MII, onkologische Spitzenzentren, klinische Krebsregister, Wissenschaftler:innen und Patient:innen, um die PM in der Krebstherapie datengetrieben voranzubringen.
Simultaneous incisional hernia repair and colorectal surgery: one or two-step procedure?
Authors: Verdaguer-Tremolosa M. , Rodrigues-Gonçalves V. , Martínez-López M. P. , Sánchez-García J. L. , López-Cano M. ,   in representation of EVEREG group
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Patients requiring colorectal surgery in the context of an incisional hernia are common, but it is not clear whether the repair should be performed as a single or two-step surgery. Our aim was to evaluate complications after concomitant abdominal wall repair and colorectal surgery compared to those after incisional hernia repair alone.

Methods

Adult patients who underwent elective incisional hernia surgery from 2012–2022 from the EVEREG registry were included. Patients who underwent midline incisional hernia repair as a single procedure and patients who underwent midline incisional hernia repair concomitant with colorectal surgery were included. The primary outcome was surgical site infection (SSI). The secondary outcomes were the Clavien–Dindo classification grade, in-hospital mortality and recurrence.

Results

A total of 7783 patients were included: 256(3.3%) who underwent concomitant surgery and 7527(96.7%) who underwent only midline incisional hernia repair. The first group included more comorbid patients and complex hernias. SSI was found in 55.4% of patients who underwent simultaneous surgery compared to 30.7% of patients who underwent hernia repair alone (P = 0.000). Multivariate analysis revealed that the risk factors for SSI were BMI (OR = 1.07, 95% CI 1.02–1.11; P = 0.004), smoking (OR = 1.89, 95% CI 1.12–3.19; P = 0.017), transverse diameter (OR = 1.06, 95% CI 1.01–1.11; P = 0.017), component separation (OR = 1.996, 95% CI 1.25–3.08; P = 0.037) and clean-contaminated and contaminated surgeries(OR = 3.86, 95% CI 1.36–10.66; P = 0.009). Higher grades of Clavien–Dindo (P = 0.001) and mortality rates (P < 0.001) were found in the colorectal surgery group, although specific risk factors were detected. No differences were observed in terms of recurrence (P = 0.104).

Conclusions

Concomitant surgery is related to greater risk of complications, especially in patients with comorbidities and complex hernias. In properly selected cases, simultaneous procedures can yield satisfactory results.
lncRNAs as prognostic markers and therapeutic targets in cuproptosis-mediated cancer
Authors: Bhat Asif Ahmad , Afzal Muhammad , Moglad Ehssan , Thapa Riya , Ali Haider , Almalki Waleed Hassan , Kazmi Imran , Alzarea Sami I. , Gupta Gaurav , Subramaniyan Vetriselvan
Published: September 2024

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as crucial regulators in various cellular processes, including cancer progression and stress response. Recent studies have demonstrated that copper accumulation induces a unique form of cell death known as cuproptosis, with lncRNAs playing a key role in regulating cuproptosis-associated pathways. These lncRNAs may trigger cell-specific responses to copper stress, presenting new opportunities as prognostic markers and therapeutic targets. This paper delves into the role of lncRNAs in cuproptosis-mediated cancer, underscoring their potential as biomarkers and targets for innovative therapeutic strategies. A thorough review of scientific literature was conducted, utilizing databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect, with search terms like 'lncRNAs,' 'cuproptosis,' and 'cancer.' Studies were selected based on their relevance to lncRNA regulation of cuproptosis pathways and their implications for cancer prognosis and treatment. The review highlights the significant contribution of lncRNAs in regulating cuproptosis-related genes and pathways, impacting copper metabolism, mitochondrial stress responses, and apoptotic signaling. Specific lncRNAs are potential prognostic markers in breast, lung, liver, ovarian, pancreatic, and gastric cancers. The objective of this article is to explore the role of lncRNAs as potential prognostic markers and therapeutic targets in cancers mediated by cuproptosis.
Retention of strength and ion release of some restorative materials
Authors: Garoushi Sufyan , Peltola Timo , Siekkinen Minna , Hupa Leena , Vallittu Pekka K. , Lassila Lippo , Säilynoja Eija
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to investigate the retention of strength in accelerated aging condition and ion release from an experimental fiber-reinforced bioactive flowable composite resin (Bio-SFRC), comparing it with various commercially available ion-releasing materials. The flexural strength of Bio-SFRC and other materials (Biodentine, TheraCal LC, Fuji II LC and Surefil one) was evaluated (n = 8) before and after hydrothermal accelerated aging. Ion concentrations of silica and phosphorus were measured after 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 10, 14, and 21 days of specimen immersion in simulated body fluids (SBF) using UV–Vis spectrometry. In addition, ion release and pH change were studied in a continuous dynamic system in SBF over a period of 72 h. SEM and EDS were used to evaluate the microstructure on the top surface of the materials after SBF immersion. Data were statistically analyzed using variance ANOVA analysis (p = 0.05). Bio-SFRC showed higher flexural strength before (134.9 MPa) and after (63.1 MPa) hydrothermal aging compared to other tested materials (p < 0.05). Flexural strength significantly decreased after aging (p < 0.05) except for Fuji II LC which showed no significant differences. Ion release data showed that experimental Bio-SFRC slowly released phosphate ions. Biodentine and TheraCal LC had the strongest ability to form calcium phosphate precipitation on the material surface. Phosphate ion release cannot be detected clearly from these materials. Surefil one and Fuji II LC were more stable materials without any observable ion release. The advantages of fiber containing structure and slow release of ions suggest that experimental Bio-SFRC is a promising bioactive material to provide ions for mineralization of surrounding tissues, and keeping the durability of the materials at higher level than that of other tested materials.
Probabilistic pre-conditioned compound landslide hazard assessment framework: integrating seismic and precipitation data and applications
Authors: Lashgari Ali , Rahimi Leila , Ahmadisharaf Ebrahim , Barari Amin
Published: September 2024

While landslides have been extremely researched, there is a notable gap in the literature regarding the combined impact of precipitation-induced and earthquake-induced landslide events on a large scale. This study presents an approach to evaluate pre-conditioned compound hazards, examining the individual and combined effects of seismic and precipitation-induced landslides. Utilizing a diverse dataset comprising precipitation, seismic, geological, and geotechnical data, the analysis includes assessments of seismic sliding displacements and precipitation-induced slope stability over a wide geographic area (Iran with ~ 1.7 million km2). We conducted discrete and joint hazard analyses to gain insights into combined seismic and precipitation-induced landslide hazards. A total of over 39,000 analyses were conducted to portray the proposed framework. The analysis indicated a higher likelihood of slope failure during earthquakes compared to precipitation-induced events. However, the combined impacts of both hazards result in significantly elevated hazard levels according to our assessments. Specifically, the joint analysis revealed that the sequence order of events can influence hazard levels. When an earthquake follows heavy precipitation, the landslide hazard level significantly increases compared to when precipitation follows an earthquake. These findings suggest that a discrete hazard analysis may underestimate hazards compared to a joint hazard analysis, especially when events occur sequentially. Comparisons between predicted and observed hazards for historical cases support the effectiveness of our proposed approach in predicting hazard levels. Overall, our proposed compound landslide hazard analysis provides a valuable tool for risk assessment and preparedness, aiding in mitigating the impact of pre-conditioned landslides.
Vegetative growth response and in vitro evaluation of three multipurpose fodder tree leaves and shrubs as potential feeds for farm animals
Authors: Abd-El Rahman Manal A. , Mohamed Nashwa H. , El-Nile Amr E. , Kholif Ahmed E. , Vargas-Bello-Pérez Einar , Attia Marwa F. A. , Sallam Sobhy M. A.
Published: September 2024

In a completely randomized design, the vegetative growth and nutritive value of three tree leaves Tectona grandis, Gmelina arborea, and Acacia mangium compared to berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum) hay as a standard high-quality roughage for ruminants were studied. Growth, chemical composition, in vitro gas production (GP), and fermentation characteristics for 48 h of incubation were measured. Results of measured growth parameters showed that the highest mean value of total height, stem base diameter, crown width, shoot fresh weight, and shoot dry weight were observed in Gmelina arborea, Tectona grandis, and Acacia mangium, respectively. Gmelina arborea had higher (P < 0.05) concentrations (%) crude protein (CP) and lower acid detergent fiber (ADF) compared to berseem hay. The lowest (P < 0.05) CP was observed with Tectona grandis; however, it had more (P < 0.01) neutral detergent fiber (NDF) compared to the berseem hay. All tree leaves had higher (P < 0.05) concentrations (%) of total phenolics, and total tannins compared to the berseem hay. Furthermore, Acacia mangium had the lowest GP (P < 0.01) GP (mL/g DM) and the rate (h) of GP (P < 0.01), while had the highest (P < 0.05) lag of GP (h) compared to berseem hay. Acacia mangium showed the lowest methane production (mL/g DM) and the highest methane production expressed as mL/g degraded DM (dDM), with no significant differences between Gmelina arborea, Tectona grandis, and berseem hay. At the same time, Tectona grandis showed the highest (P < 0.05) total (mM) and individual (%) short chain fatty acids concentrations compared to berseem hay. Acacia mangium showed the lowest (P < 0.01) truly degraded DM and organic matter (mg/g incubated) and protozoal count (P < 0.05) (105/mL). Also, Acacia mangium had lower (P < 0.05) ammonia-N concentration (mg/dL), metabolizable energy (MJ/kg DM), and microbial protein production (mg/g DM). Overall, Tectona grandis and Gmelina arborea are more recommended than Acacia mangium due to their higher rumen fermentation characteristics and nutrient degradability; however, Acacia mangium has an importance from an environmental view as it had lower methane production compared to other plants.