bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictive risk scores for visual prognosis after photodynamic therapy for central serous chorioretinopathy
Authors: Funatsu Ryoh , Terasaki Hiroto , Mihara Naohisa , Shiihara Hideki , Sonoda Shozo , Sakamoto Taiji
Published: November 2024

Purpose

To comprehensively evaluate baseline characteristics of patients with central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) and develop predictive risk scores to identify visual prognosis.

Methods

This single-institute, retrospective cohort study included 144 eyes of 144 patients with CSC who underwent photodynamic therapy and achieved serous retinal detachment resolution. We developed and assessed the performance of several risk scores for best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) outcomes six months post-treatment: i) BCVA improvement (≤-1.0 logMAR), and ii) BCVA deterioration (≥+ 1.0 logMAR).

Results

The BCVA improvement models used photoreceptor outer segment thickness, loss of photoreceptor outer segment, and neurosensory retinal thickness (NSRT), while the BCVA deterioration models included outer nuclear layer thickness and NSRT. The BCVA improvement models demonstrated a corrected area under the curve (AUC) of 0.786 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.699–0.864), with 80.4% sensitivity, and 71.2% specificity. The BCVA deterioration models achieved a corrected AUC of 0.864 (95% CI: 0.742–0.958), with 85.7% sensitivity, and 83.5% specificity.

Conclusion

The predictive models for CSC exhibited favorable performance in predicting individual visual prognoses. A thinner outer nuclear layer may be associated with BCVA deterioration, whereas preservation of the photoreceptor outer segment may be correlated with BCVA improvement.

Key Messages

What is known

Pre-treatment best-corrected visual acuity, thickness of each sensory retinal layer, time from onset to treatment, and macular atrophy were each found to be associated with visual prognosis for patients with central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC).

What is new

The current study comprehensively assessed potential prognostic factors and precisely identified individual likelihood of visual prognosis.

The study found that different regions of the sensory retina were associated with either worsening or improving visual acuity.

Accurately predicting visual outcomes after photodynamic therapy for CSC would help healthcare providers create personalized treatment plans and enable patients to make informed decisions about their treatment based on their expected visual results.
Skeletal muscle hypertrophy and enhanced mitochondrial bioenergetics following electrical stimulation exercises in spinal cord injury: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Gorgey Ashraf S. , Khalil Refka E. , Carter William , Rivers Jeannie , Chen Qun , Lesnefsky Edward J.
Published: November 2024

We examined the combined effects of neuromuscular electrical stimulation-resistance training (NMES-RT) and functional electrical stimulation-lower extremity cycling (FES-LEC) compared to passive movement training (PMT) and FES-LEC on mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC) complexes and citrate synthase (CS) in adults with SCI. Thirty-two participants with chronic SCI were randomized to 24 weeks of NMES-RT + FES [n = 16 (14 males and 2 females) with an age range of 20–54 years old] or PMT + FES [n = 16 (12 males and 4 females) with an age range of 21–61 years old]. The NMES-RT + FES group underwent 12 weeks of surface NMES-RT using ankle weights followed by an additional 12 weeks of FES-LEC. The PMT + FES performed 12 weeks of passive leg extension movements followed by an additional 12 weeks of FES-LEC. Using repeated measures design, muscle biopsies of the vastus lateralis were performed at baseline (BL), post-intervention 1 (P1) and post-intervention 2 (P2). Spectrophotometer was used to measure ETC complexes (I-III) and CS using aliquots of the homogenized muscle tissue. Magnetic resonance imaging was used to measure skeletal muscle CSAs. A time effect was noted on CS (P = 0.001) with an interaction between both groups (P = 0.01). 46% of the participants per group had zero activities of CI without any changes following both interventions. A time effect was noted in CII (P = 0.023) following both interventions. Finally, NMES-RT + FES increased CIII at P1 compared to BL (P = 0.023) without additional changes in P2 or following PMT + FES intervention. Skeletal muscle hypertrophy may potentially enhance mitochondrial bioenergetics after SCI. NMES-RT is likely to enhance the activities of complex III in sedentary persons with SCI. Clinical trials # NCT02660073.
Softwaregestütze Bemessung von Betonbewehrung aus Basaltfasern
Authors: Steckbauer Martin Alfred , Evangelatos Alexandros , Galler Robert
Published: November 2024

Hohe Treibhausgasemissionen und Sanierungskosten der Stahlbewehrungen in Betonkonstruktionen stellen ein Problem dar, nichtmetallische Bewehrungen aus Basalt wären eine mögliche Alternative. Im folgenden Beitrag wird diese anhand der im kontinuierlichen Tunnelbau verwendeten Tübbinge untersucht. Dafür wurden vorerst stahlbewehrte Dreipunktbiegeversuche im Labormaßstab aus der Literatur numerisch mit dem Programm Sofistik zur Parameterabstimmung an einfachen Geometrien validiert. Anhand dieser Erkenntnisse wurden anschließend zwei unterschiedliche Stahlbetontübbinge des Koralmtunnels modelliert und berechnet. Die unterschiedlichen Modellkörper mit aus Versuchen validierten Parametern konnten nun in der Sofistik-Simulation mit Basaltbewehrung neu bemessen werden. Die numerischen Analysen ermöglichen erste Darstellungen des Einsparungspotenzials von Treibhausgasen an basaltbewehrten Betonbauteilen wie Tübbingen.
Gestärkt aus den Krisen: Bewältigungs- und Anpassungsmaßnahmen von Gastronomiebetrieben in Niedersachsen
Authors: Völlers Philip , Franz Martin , Verfürth Philip , Neise Thomas
Published: November 2024

Gastronomiebetriebe leisten einen wichtigen Beitrag zur sozioökonomischen Entwicklung von Städten und Dörfern. Trotz ihrer soziokulturellen und wirtschaftlichen Funktionen wurde die Gastronomie in der Stadt- und Gemeindeplanung, der Kommunalpolitik und der Wirtschaftsförderung lange Zeit nicht ausreichend berücksichtigt. Seit 2020 sind Gastronomiebetriebe in besonderem Maße von den Auswirkungen multipler Krisen betroffen. Dieser Artikel hat zum Ziel, die Auswirkungen dieser Krisensituationen auf die Gastronomie zu erfassen und die betrieblichen Maßnahmen zur Bewältigung dieser Krisen zu identifizieren. Die Untersuchung basiert auf einer Kombination aus quantitativer Umfrage unter Gastronomiebetrieben und qualitativen Interviews mit Gastronom*innen sowie Vertreter*innen relevanter Organisationen. Es zeigt sich, dass die sich überlappenden Krisen erhebliche betriebliche Auswirkungen haben. Etwa 40 % der Betriebe sehen ihre Existenz bedroht. Allerdings geben rund 36 % der Betriebe an, dass sie gestärkt aus den Krisen hervorgehen. Dies ist auf die Bewältigungs- und Anpassungsmaßnahmen und die sich verändernde Wettbewerbssituation zurückzuführen. Abschließend werden aus den Untersuchungsergebnissen Handlungsempfehlungen für Gastronom*innen, unterstützende Organisationen und die Politik abgeleitet.
Interpretation of Pressuremeter Test in Fractured and Weathered Phyllite for Back-Analysis of Pipe Jacking Forces
Authors: Phangkawira F. , Ong D. E. L. , Choo C. S.
Published: November 2024

Characterisation of highly fractured and weathered rock masses within the young Tuang Formation in Sarawak, Malaysia is challenging, mainly due to the difficulties in extracting intact samples for conventional rock testing. Pressuremeter test was used as a viable alternative since it is performed in-situ, hence eliminating the need for sample extraction. A methodology was developed to interpret pressuremeter test results in highly fractured and weathered phyllite using an analytical approach, from which useful strength and stiffness parameters can be obtained. The interpretation method was based on the fundamental theory of cylindrical cavity expansion, which was originally established for soils. The results of the interpretation were in terms of commonly known Mohr–Coulomb strength parameters, which were subsequently used for assessment of frictional pipe jacking forces through back-analysis method. The results of the back-analysis showed the reliability of the developed methodology in analysing pressuremeter test results within highly fractured and weathered phyllite.
Effectiveness of optic nerve sheath fenestration in preserving vision in idiopathic intracranial hypertension: an updated meta-analysis and systematic review
Authors: Prokop Kacper , Opęchowska Aleksandra , Sieśkiewicz Andrzej , Lisowski Łukasz , Mariak Zenon , Łysoń Tomasz
Published: November 2024

Background

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Optic Nerve Sheath Fenestration (ONSF) in improving visual outcomes in patients with Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (IIH).

Methods

A meta-analysis was conducted using data from 19 studies, totaling 1159 observations. The main assessed outcomes after ONSF surgery were: the improvement in visual acuity, the improvement in visual fields and reduction in papilledema. We performed separate analyses to distinguish between outcomes using different surgical approaches. Comprehensive literature searches were conducted in the Ovid MEDLINE(R) and SCOPUS databases, following PRISMA guidelines. Statistical analyses employed a Generalized Linear Mixed Model (GLMM) to integrate proportion data, with heterogeneity assessed via I-squared and H statistics. Publication bias was evaluated using funnel plots, Egger's test, and Peters' test.

Results

The analysis revealed that ONSF significantly improved visual acuity in 41.09% of patients, and visual fields in 76.34% of cases. The transconjunctival approach demonstrated higher success rates for visual field improvement. A high improvement rate of 97% was observed in reducing optic disc swelling. Significant heterogeneity was noted, particularly in visual acuity (I2 = 92.1%) and visual field improvements (I2 = 73.8%), reflecting variability in surgical techniques and patient demographics. Publication bias assessments indicated no significant bias for visual acuity and visual field outcomes, although potential bias was detected for papilledema reduction.

Conclusions

This meta-analysis confirms that ONSF is effective in improving visual outcomes for IIH patients, especially when using the transconjunctival approach. Early surgical intervention is crucial for optimal results, principally in preventing advanced ischemic damage. Despite high success rates, observed heterogeneity highlights the need for standardized surgical techniques and further investigation into patient-specific factors influencing outcomes. Addressing potential publication bias and conducting more rigorous studies will enhance the reliability of future meta-analyses. Upcoming research in ONSF efficacy is needed to refine surgical practices and optimize patient care.
Idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus: survey on current diagnostic and therapeutic procedures in clinical practice in Germany
Authors: Al-Tarawni Fadi , Abdulbaki Arif , Polemikos Manolis , Kaminsky Jan , Trost Hans A. , Woitzik Johannes , Krauss Joachim K.
Published: November 2024

Objective

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunting has become the standard treatment for idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH). Nevertheless, there is still disagreement on diagnostic criteria for selecting patients for surgery and optimal shunt management. The primary aim of the present study was to provide an update on the status of best practice, the use of different diagnostic algorithms and therapeutic management of idiopathic NPH in an European country.

Methods  

A standardized questionnaire with sections on the assessment of clinical symptoms and signs of NPH, diagnostic work-up, therapeutic decision making, and operative techniques was sent to 135 neurosurgical clinics in Germany that regularly perform shunt surgeries.

Results

Overall, responses were received from 114/135 (84.4%) clinics. Most responders considered gait disturbance to be the hallmark clinical sign of idiopathic NPH (96%). A lumbar tap test was utilized always/ mostly by 97 centers (86%). In 43% of the centers, 30–40 ml CSF were removed with the spinal tap test. Spinal dynamic CSF studies were used by 12 centers only occasionally, and only by 1 center always for diagnostic purposes. Ventriculo-peritoneal shunting was the most frequent type of CSF diversion (> 90%). Pressure-controlled valves were used by the majority of units (95%) Overall 102 centers (93%) always/mostly used adjustable valves, and antisiphon devices were used always/ mostly in 50% of units.

Conclusion

The present survey demonstrates that there has been a remarkable change of practice and opinions on the diagnosis and treatment of idiopathic NPH over the past two decades in Germany. Remarkably, variabilities in practice among different centers are less common than previously and recommendations according to scientific publications and guidelines have been implemented more readily.
Radiation exposure and safety in low-dose CT-guided glycerol rhizotomy for trigeminal Neuralgia outside the operating room
Authors: Dostal Jiri , Baxa Jan , Stepankova Jana , Seidl Miroslav , Mracek Jan , Lavicka Pavel , Malkus Tomas , Priban Vladimir
Published: November 2024

Background

Percutaneous rhizotomy of the Gasserian ganglion is a well-established intervention for patients suffering from refractory trigeminal pain, not amenable to pharmacological management or microvascular decompression. Traditionally conducted under fluoroscopic guidance using Hartel’s technique, this study investigates a modified approach employing low-dose CT guidance to achieve maximal procedural precision and safety with the emphasis on minimizing radiation exposure.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of patients undergoing percutaneous rhizotomy of the Gasserian ganglion at our institution was undertaken. Procedures were divided into fluoroscopy and CT-guided foramen ovale (FO) cannulation cohorts. Radiation doses were assessed, excluding cases with incomplete data. The study included 32 procedures in the fluoroscopy group and 30 in the CT group.

Results

In the CT-guided group, the median effective dose was 0.21 mSv. The median number of CT scans per procedure was 4.5, and the median procedure time was 15 min. Successful FO cannulation was achieved in all 30 procedures (100%). In the fluoroscopy group, the median effective dose was 0.022 mSv, and the median procedure time was 15 min. Cannulation of FO was successful in 31 of 32 procedures (96.9%).

The only complications in the CT-guided group were three minor cheek hematomas. Immediate pain relief in the CT-guided group was reported in 25 of 30 procedures (83.3%), 22 of 30 (73.3%) provided relief at one month, and 10 of 18 (55.6%) procedures resulting in pain relief at one month continued to provide relief after two years.

Conclusion

Low-dose CT-guided percutaneous rhizotomy conducted in the radiology suite carries negligible radiation exposure for patients and eliminates it for personnel. This method is fast, simple, precise, and carries a very low risk of complications.
Validation of theoretical estimation methods and maximum value distribution calculation for parametric roll amplitude in long-crested irregular waves
Authors: Katsumura Keiji , Dostal Leo , Kono Taiga , Maruyama Yuuki , Sakai Masahiro , Maki Atsuo
Published: November 2024

Parametric rolling is a parametric excitation phenomenon caused by GM variation in waves. There are a lot of studies of the estimation the conditions, the occurrence, and the amplitude of parametric rolling. On the other hand, there are relatively few cases in which theoretical methods for estimating parametric roll amplitudes in irregular waves have been validated in tank tests. The primary objective of this study is to validate theoretical estimation methods for the parametric roll amplitude in irregular waves and improve their accuracy. First, the probability density functions (PDF) of the parametric roll amplitude obtained from the model ship motion experiment in irregular waves are compared with that obtained from theoretical estimation methods. Second, the method to improve the accuracy of estimation of the roll restoring variation in irregular waves is suggested. Third, the method to estimate the distribution of the maximum amplitude of parametric rolling in irregular waves. As a result, the PDFs of the roll amplitude obtained from the experiments differ from the results of theoretical estimation. After that, by correcting GM variation, the results of theoretical estimation are closer to the experimental results. Moreover, by the theoretical estimation method using the moment equation, the qualitative estimation for the PDF of the maximum roll amplitude is succeeded.
Ovarian reserve in patients with Sjögren’s syndrome: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Mandosi Chiara , Matys Viviana , Deroma Marianna , Del Negro Valentina , Merlino Lucia , Mariani Marianna , Priori Roberta , Ciminello Enrico , Anastasi Emanuela , Porpora Maria Grazia , Piccioni Maria Grazia
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study aimed to assess the potential impact of primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS) on fertility and ovarian reserve by evaluating the number of antral ovarian follicles (AFC) through ultrasound and analysing serum levels of anti-müllerian hormone (AMH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which are currently the most reliable indicators of fertility potential.

Method

A total of 52 premenopausal women were recruited from the Maternal, Infantile, and Urological Sciences Department at Umberto I Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome. Among them, 26 had pSS, and 26 served as healthy controls. All participants underwent a gynaecological examination, a transvaginal ultrasound, and serum testing for AMH and FSH levels.

Results

The study found that serum AMH levels were significantly lower (p = 0.002) in pSS patients compared to the controls, indicating a potential reduction in ovarian reserve in these patients. However, no statistically significant differences were observed in FSH levels between the two groups.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that pSS may have a negative impact on ovarian reserve, as evidenced by lower AMH levels in comparison to age-matched controls. AFC and FSH levels, however, were similar to those of healthy women. These results provide new insights that could be beneficial for this patient population, though further, larger-scale studies are necessary to more comprehensively understand the relationship between pSS and female fertility.

Key Points• The study assesses the possible impact of pSS on fertility and ovarian reserve by evaluation of AMH, FSH, and AFC.• Family planning and fertility are important issues for patients with rheumatic disorders and must be considered and discussed with the patient already at the time of diagnosis, and appropriate counselling must be performed.
Pharmacological inhibition of the NLRP3 inflammasome attenuates kidney apoptosis, fibrosis, and injury in Dahl salt-sensitive rats
Authors: Wang Yue , Wu Yuhang , Ren Jiayu , Wang Ying , Perwaiz Imran , Su Hongtong , Li Jing , Qu Peng
Published: November 2024

Background

Salt-sensitive hypertension (SSH) is the most severe form of hypertension, and the presence of NLRP3 inflammasome plays a crucial role in its pathogenesis. Although MCC950 has shown therapeutic potential for hypertension and kidney injury, its mechanism of action remains unclear.

Methods

Dahl salt-sensitive (SS) rats and their salt-tolerant aptamer control SS-13BN (BN) rats were randomly assigned to four groups: SS rats intraperitoneally administered physiological saline (SS + vehicle) or MCC950 (SS + MCC950), and BN rats intraperitoneally administered physiological saline (BN + vehicle) or MCC950 (BN + MCC950). All rats were given 2% saline for drinking and received intraperitoneal injections of physiological saline or MCC950 (5 mg/kg) every other day. Biomarkers such as serum creatinine, urinary protein, sodium retention, NLRP3 inflammasome, inflammation, apoptosis, fibrosis, sodium channels and histopathological changes in kidney injury were evaluated in blood, urine, and kidney tissues.

Results

Compared with the SS + vehicle group, the SS + MCC950 group showed significantly lower blood pressure levels. Additionally, inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome activation was observed along with reduced inflammation, apoptosis, fibrosis, and sodium retention in the kidneys.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that pharmacological inhibition of the NLRP3 inflammasome reduces blood pressure in SS rats and alleviates related kidney injury by suppressing inflammation, apoptosis, fibrosis, and sodium retention.
Infant skull fractures align with the direction of bone mineralization
Authors: Chen Siyuan , Kleiven Svein , Li Xiaogai
Published: November 2024

The geometry and mechanical properties of infant skull bones differ significantly from those of adults. Over the past decades, debates surrounding whether fractures in infants come from deliberate abuse or accidents have generated significant impacts in both legal and societal contexts. However, the etiology of infant skull fractures remains unclear, which motivates this study with two main components of work. Firstly, we present and implement a progressive unidirectional fabric composite damage model for infant cranial vaults to represent ductile and anisotropic properties—two typical mechanical characteristics of infant skulls. Secondly, we hypothesize that these intrinsic material properties cause injuries perpendicular to the fiber direction to dominate infant skull fractures, resulting in fracture lines that align with the direction of mineralization in the infant skull. The material model and the finite element (FE) model were verified hierarchically, and this hypothesis was verified by reconstructing two legal cases with known fall heights and implementing the above damage model into CT-based subject-specific infant FE head models. We discovered that the infant skull is more susceptible to injuries within planes perpendicular to the mineralization direction because of the anisotropic mechanical property caused by the direction of mineralization, leading to infant skull fractures aligning with the mineralization direction. Our findings corroborated the several previously reported observations of fractures on cranial vaults, demonstrating that these fractures were closely associated with sutures and oriented along the mineralization direction, and revealed the underlying mechanisms of infant skull fracture pattern. The modeling methods and results of this study will serve as an anchor point for more rigorous investigations of infant skull fractures, ultimately aiming to provide convincing biomechanical evidence to aid forensic diagnoses of abusive head trauma.
A Systematic Review on the Use of Registration-Based Change Tracking Methods in Longitudinal Radiological Images
Authors: Im Jeeho E. , Khalifa Muhammed , Gregory Adriana V. , Erickson Bradley J. , Kline Timothy L.
Published: November 2024

Registration is the process of spatially and/or temporally aligning different images. It is a critical tool that can facilitate the automatic tracking of pathological changes detected in radiological images and align images captured by different imaging systems and/or those acquired using different acquisition parameters. The longitudinal analysis of clinical changes has a significant role in helping clinicians evaluate disease progression and determine the most suitable course of treatment for patients. This study provides a comprehensive review of the role registration-based approaches play in automated change tracking in radiological imaging and explores the three types of registration approaches which include rigid, affine, and nonrigid registration, as well as methods of detecting and quantifying changes in registered longitudinal images: the intensity-based approach and the deformation-based approach. After providing an overview and background, we highlight the clinical applications of these methods, specifically focusing on computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in tumors and multiple sclerosis (MS), two of the most heavily studied areas in automated change tracking. We conclude with a discussion and recommendation for future directions.
Interactions between eagles and semi-domestic reindeer – lessons learned from field surveys and deterrents
Authors: van der Meiden Aemilius Johannes , López-Peinado Andrés , Sunesson Peter , Emilsson Christian , Singh Navinder J.
Published: November 2024

1) Predation by eagles on semi-domesticated reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) is a known human-wildlife conflict in Fennoscandia. Both the Golden (Aquila chrysaetos) and the White-Tailed Eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla) are believed by herders to predate on reindeer, however, there is a considerable knowledge gap regarding the extent of predation and scavenging. Herders believe that predation levels are higher than assumed and that current compensation in Sweden, based on herd size, is insufficient. 2) We developed this pilot Before-After-Control-Impact project to fill the existing knowledge gaps by investigating the patterns of eagle abundance before, during, and after reindeer calving in a reindeer herding district in northern Sweden and testing the effect of two potential deterrents (air ventilators and rotating prisms) in diverting eagles from reindeer calving areas. 3) During the single study period, we made 12, 47, and 17 eagle observations before, during, and after calving respectively. Eagle abundance increased during calving and decreased again after calving ended. Predation levels were difficult to infer and neither direct attacks nor dead calves killed by eagles have been observed. Most eagle observations were made in the control area, with significantly higher odds of observing eagles in the control area compared to areas with deterrents. 4) We show that eagle abundance increased during the calving period and declined afterwards, with subadults particularly fluctuating. Deterrents appear promising in diverting eagles, though further studies are needed to fully assess their effectiveness and the broader issue of eagle predation on reindeer.
Revisiting the Modelling of Mixing Time Scales for Lagrangian Filtered Density Function Methods
Authors: Gutiérrez Sánchez Sergio , Yang Jacqueline , Kronenburg Andreas , Zirwes Thorsten
Published: November 2024

Mixing models for multiple mapping conditioning (MMC) methods are revisited as some details of their implementation have not yet been assessed. We use simulations of scalar mixing in non-reacting homogeneous isotropic decaying turbulence (HIT) such that (1) key modelling parameters can be taken from the direct numerical simulations without incurring additional modelling uncertainties and (2) direct validation is possible. Variants of Curl’s model are studied and direct comparison is sought with the variants’ performances in the context of standard (intensive) and sparse (such as MMC) particle approaches for the modelling of the probability density function (PDF). The second aim is to show the relative importance of micro-mixing and spatial diffusion in the presence of differential diffusion. The results demonstrate that MMC approximates the correct relaxation towards Gaussian independent of the mixing model’s variant. This is different from the standard PDF approach that requires a clear spatial localization given by the computational mesh to achieve a similar outcome. This spatial localization is not needed in MMC as the MMC mixing model already employs a localization in reference space. Differential diffusion effects can, however, only be accurately predicted if not only mixing but also spatial transport accounts for the differences in the molecular diffusion term. It is insufficient to adjust the mixing time scales only and future MMC models may require adjustments for accurate prediction capabilities.
Caregiver Psychopathology, Resilience, and Their Associations with Social-Emotional Challenges of Young Children Affected by Armed Conflict in Colombia
Authors: Hein Sascha , Ponguta Liliana A. , Flores José M. , Londoño Tobón Amalia , Johnson Isaac N. S. , Larran Julie , Ortiz Hoyos Ana M. , Gómez Oscar , González Ballesteros Lina M. , Castellanos Roncancio Camila A. , Leckman James F.
Published: November 2024

We examined the social and emotional challenges (SEC) of young children and the mental health of their caregivers in areas affected by armed conflict and displacement in Colombia. Anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms were assessed in 1,133 caregivers. Caregivers also reported on the SEC of their children aged 21–53 months. A subsample of 487 caregivers (43%) completed a resilience self-report measure. Caregivers reported substantial levels of psychopathology ranging from 12.84% of caregivers with elevated anxiety levels, 24.5% who scored above the cutoff on the PTSD measure, and 44.7% who screened positive for depression. Correlations (r) between child SEC and caregiver psychopathology ranged from 0.15 to 0.33. The association between caregiver depression and child SEC was more substantial for boys (B = 0.56) than girls (B = 0.22). We also found that girls whose caregivers reported elevated levels of psychopathology and low levels of caregiver resilience received the highest ratings of caregiver-reported SEC. The importance of caregiver-child resilience-focused psychosocial support is discussed.
Rental Contract Liberalisation in The Netherlands: Effects on Rents, Vacancy Rates and Residential Mobility
Authors: Lankhuizen Maureen , Rouwendal Jan
Published: November 2024

On 1 July 2016, the Wet doorstroming huurmarkt (Rental Market Transition Act) was implemented in the Netherlands. This law made it possible to temporarily rent out a property for a maximum of two years. The law was created to promote flexibility in the rental market. In particular, better allocation of households was the goal. This paper empirically analyses the impact of temporary contracts by considering the frequency of short stays (up to 2 years). We investigate the changes in this frequency since 2016. We also consider possible implications of the introduction of temporary contracts for rents, residential mobility, and duration of vacancy. We quantify the benefits of short stays to landlords, which mirror the cost of tenants, in terms of higher rental revenues. We also find that residential mobility in the private rental market increased significantly after temporary contracts were allowed, not only in the first 24 months of stay, but overall, as intended by the law.
Risk prediction of ischemic heart disease using plasma proteomics, conventional risk factors and polygenic scores in Chinese and European adults
Authors: Mazidi Mohsen , Wright Neil , Yao Pang , Kartsonaki Christiana , Millwood Iona Y. , Fry Hannah , Said Saredo , Pozarickij Alfred , Pei Pei , Chen Yiping , Wang Baihan , Avery Daniel , Du Huaidong , Schmidt Dan Valle , Yang Ling , Lv Jun , Yu Canqing , Sun DianJianYi , Chen Junshi , Hill Michael , Peto Richard , Collins Rory , Bennett Derrick A. , Walters Robin G. , Li Liming , Clarke Robert , Chen Zhengming ,   China Kadoorie Biobank Collaborative Group
Published: November 2024

Plasma proteomics could enhance risk prediction for multiple diseases beyond conventional risk factors or polygenic scores (PS). To assess utility of proteomics for risk prediction of ischemic heart disease (IHD) compared with conventional risk factors and PS in Chinese and European populations. A nested case-cohort study measured plasma levels of 2923 proteins using Olink Explore panel in ~ 4000 Chinese adults (1976 incident IHD cases and 2001 sub-cohort controls). We used conventional and machine learning (Boruta) methods to develop proteomics-based prediction models of IHD, with discrimination assessed using area under the curve (AUC), C-statistics and net reclassification index (NRI). These were compared with conventional risk factors and PS in Chinese and in 37,187 Europeans. Overall, 446 proteins were associated with IHD (false discovery rate < 0.05) in Chinese after adjustment for conventional cardiovascular disease risk factors. Proteomic risk models alone yielded higher C-statistics for IHD than conventional risk factors or PS (0.855 [95%CI 0.841–0.868] vs. 0.845 [0.829–0.860] vs 0.553 [0.528–0.578], respectively). Addition of 446 proteins to PS improved C-statistics to 0.857 (0.843–0.871) and NRI by 109.1%; and addition to conventional risk factors improved C-statistics to 0.868 (0.854–0.882) and NRI by 86.9%. Boruta analysis identified 30 proteins accounting for ~ 90% of improvement in NRI for IHD conferred by all 2923 proteins. Similar proteomic panels yielded comparable improvements in risk prediction of IHD in Europeans. Plasma proteomics improved risk prediction of IHD beyond conventional risk factors and PS and could enhance precision medicine approaches for primary prevention of IHD.
Naturally derived bioactive compounds as precision modulators of immune and inflammatory mechanisms in psoriatic conditions
Authors: Radu Ada , Tit Delia Mirela , Endres Laura Maria , Radu Andrei-Flavius , Vesa Cosmin Mihai , Bungau Simona Gabriela
Published: November 2024

Psoriasis represents a chronic autoimmune skin condition defined by various clinical forms, including inverse, erythrodermic, pustular, guttate, plaque types. While current therapies, including topical treatments but also systemic through conventional synthetic drugs and biologics, have improved symptom management, no treatment completely cures the disease, and numerous options are linked to considerable adverse effects, including immunosuppression and carcinogenic risks. Therefore, there is growing interest in bioactive compounds from natural sources due to their potential to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in psoriasis with fewer adverse effects. The present narrative review aimed to address the limitations of current psoriasis therapies by exploring the therapeutic potential of bioactive compounds in the classes of flavonoids, terpenoids, omega-3 fatty acids, and alkaloids assessed through complex experimental models, focusing on their immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. Recent studies highlight the efficacy of natural bioactive compounds in reducing psoriasis symptoms, either as standalone treatments or in combination with conventional therapies. While these compounds show promise in alleviating psoriasis-related inflammation, further research is needed to optimize their therapeutic use, understand their mechanisms of action, and assess long-term safety. Future studies should focus on clinical trials to establish standardized protocols for incorporating bioactive compounds into psoriasis management and explore their potential role in personalized treatment strategies. Continued research is essential to develop more effective, safer, and affordable therapeutic options for psoriasis patients.
What Difference does it Make if they have Children? A Mixed Methods Study of the Impact of Children on Service Providers’ Perception of Mandatory Reporting of Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Vatnar Solveig Karin Bø , Dahl Silje Louise , Kristiansen Susanne Tilke Thon , Leer-Salvesen Kjartan , Nordby Christine , Vølstad Astrid Gravdal , Douglas Kevin S.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Whether professionals consider children to be an important factor regarding mandatory reporting of intimate partner violence (MR-IPV) remains unknown. In the present study, we examined to what extent the presence of children had an impact on service providers’ decision making when faced with IPV, and the parents’ reported consequences of MR-IPV for the children.

Methods

The present study is a mixed methods study combining quantitative (N = 374 service providers and N = 86 IPV victims) and qualitative (N = 59 service providers and N = 10 IPV victims) data in a convergent parallel design. Descriptive analyses and Kruskal- Wallis H-tests from the quantitative data were used. The analytic process for the qualitative analyses was informed by Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis.

Results

The service providers found it easier to set aside confidentiality in IPV cases when the purpose was safeguarding children. The findings indicated some confusion about the difference and interface between the obligation to notify the child welfare service and to report under MR-IPV to the police. IPV victims who had experienced MR-IPV reported mixed consequences for their children. However, more than half reported that their children were better off after the MR-IPV.

Conclusions

The recognition of the impact of IPV on children in practice, research and policy-making might lead to some inconsistencies and contradictions in how service providers respond to IPV. Accordingly, service providers must take into account the challenges in situations where MR-IPV might be applicable in order to protect both the child(ren) and the victimized adult from IPV.
Removal of uranium ions from contaminated solutions by adsorption on cerium and lanthanum magnesium ferrite
Authors: Abd El-Magied Mahmoud O. , Rezk Mohamed M. , Bakr Yasser I. , Fawzy Mohamad M. , Sopaih Manar , Anwar Zeinab. M.
Published: November 2024

Magnesium ferrites doped with lanthanum (MgLaF) and cerium (MgCeF) were synthesized according to the combustion method. These ferrite-based nanoparticles showed improved adsorption properties for uranium ions. The maximum capacity of 138.95 and 152.39 mg/g were achieved at pH 5 after 30 min of contact with the MgLaF and MgCeF nanoparticles. The outcomes demonstrated that the nanoparticles have a high adsorption affinity for uranium ions (θ ≥ 0.9396). This adsorption affinity was not significantly affected by the presence of other ions, where the amount of uranium adsorbed from granite leach liquor on MgLaF and MgCeF reached 122.7 and 134.8 mg/g.
Participant Perspectives on a Community Health Worker Intervention to Reduce Infant Mortality: A Mixed Methods Assessment of the Bronx Healthy Start Partnership
Authors: Fisher Elisa M. , Idehen Alma , Cárdenas Luisa , Lounsbury David W. , Jasani Foram , Rodgers Caryn R. R. , Gregoire Mayssa , Williams Rebecca , Weiss Linda , Hal Strelnick A.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Healthy Start is an initiative to reduce infant mortality and improve birth equity throughout the US, in large part by deploying community health workers (CHWs) to conduct home visits and provide educational and emotional support to new and expectant parents.

Methods

A mixed-methods assessment of the Bronx Healthy Start Partnership (BxHSP) was conducted as part of a quality improvement initiative to understand client perspectives regarding the impact of BxHSP on short- and intermediate-term outcomes that affect long-term well-being. Phone interviews (n = 16) and online surveys (n = 62) were conducted in English and Spanish with BxHSP participants in 2020 and 2022. The interview sample was selected purposefully; interview participants were eligible if they gave birth prior to mid-March 2020 and had received at least one CHW home visit. All individuals with open BxHSP cases (n = 379) were invited to complete the survey.

Results

Findings suggest that BxHSP CHWs can provide vital psychosocial, material, and educational resources that help engaged participants feel supported as new parents and develop knowledge and skills related to infant care. Results further suggest that these short-term outcomes contribute to lower stress, increased self-efficacy, and health-promoting infant care practices, enabling participants to feel more confident and capable as new parents.

Discussion

Findings underscore how programs like BxHSP can help address gaps in resources and improve health and well-being for pregnant and postpartum participants. Limitations include possible selection, recall, and/or social desirability biases as response rates were low and data were self-reported and retrospective. Limitations were addressed in part through triangulation of qualitative and quantitative data.
The 2020 Mw 6.6 Vernadsky transform earthquake sequence: rupture and Coulomb stress changes surrounding an oceanic core complex
Authors: de Melo Guilherme W. S. , Mitchell Neil C. , Sokolov Sergey Y.
Published: November 2024

Oceanic core complexes (OCCs) are upwards-convex areas of outcropping lower crustal or upper mantle rocks raised to the seabed by normal faults, commonly associated with weak lithologies such as serpentinites. They are common adjacent to transform valleys of slow-spreading ridges. In this paper, we analyse the September 2020, Mw 6.6 strike-slip earthquake and its two-week long aftershock sequence within the Vernadsky transform valley, using recordings from regional seismic stations. The aftershocks occurred in two phases. During the first four days, ∼ 131 events occurred east and northeast of the mainshock, overlapping an adjacent OCC complex along the northern flank of the transform valley. During the following nine days, 20 aftershocks occurred, including a Mw 5.8 event close to the OCC. To refine the locations of aftershocks, the spatial spread of the events (clustering) was refined by double-difference relocating 114 events, and five with teleseismic relative relocation. Modeling of static Coulomb stresses was carried out, based on a mainshock rupture length compatible with the 26–30 km horizontal extent of aftershocks. This revealed that the aftershocks occurred mainly in areas where static Coulomb stresses decreased, not increased. Other researchers have suggested that changes in fault strength can arise from dynamic stresses during major earthquakes, leading to seismicity in areas of decreased Coulomb stress. We explore this idea in the context of OCCs.
Metformin effectively alleviates the symptoms of Alzheimer in rats by lowering amyloid β deposition and enhancing the insulin signal
Authors: Abosharaf Hamed A. , Elsonbaty Yasmin , Tousson Ehab , Mohamed Tarek M.
Published: November 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) exhibits distinct biochemical and histopathological attributes, encompassing cellular, neuronal, and oxidative impairment. There is also an abnormal buildup, misfolding and clumping of amyloid β (Aβ). The present study aimed to explore the influence of the antihyperglycemic agent metformin on rats with AD-like symptoms, while also elucidating the intricate relationship between insulin resistance and AD. The rats were categorized into five groups: a control group, a saline-administered group, a metformin-treated group, AD-model rats, and AD-rats treated with a 200 mg/kg dose of metformin. Cognitive impairment was rated using the classical labyrinth test. Moreover, serum biochemical parameters, encompassing glucose levels, Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR), Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), lipid profile, kidney, and liver function, were evaluated. Additionally, oxidative, antioxidant, and neurotransmitter parameters were measured in hippocampus tissues. Also, the Aβ and insulin receptor substrate 2 (IRS-2) were measured by immunoblotting. Besides hippocampal histopathology, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and calretinin immunoreactivity were monitored. The study findings disclosed deficits in memory and learning capabilities among AD rats. Furthermore, AD-afflicted rats exhibited heightened glucose levels, elevated HOMA-IR and HbA1c values, alongside compromised liver, and kidney functions. Additionally, an upsurge in oxidative stress coincided with a notable reduction in the antioxidant system and neurotransmitters activities. The levels of Aβ deposition increased, while IRS-2 expression subsided, accompanied by alterations in the hippocampal structure and neuronal damage. These changes were paralleled by an intensification in GFAP reactivity and a detracting in calretinin reactivity. Metformin was altogether able to move forward cognitive execution by means of bringing down oxidative stress and Aβ conglomeration. Furthermore, metformin was able to improve neurotransmitters and insulin signals. AD, glucose impairment, and brain insulin resistance are completely interlinked, and future AD medications may be inspired by diabetic medication.
Equality of Magnetization and Edge Current for Interacting Lattice Fermions at Positive Temperature
Authors: Lampart Jonas , Moscolari Massimo , Teufel Stefan , Wessel Tom
Published: November 2024

We prove that the magnetization is equal to the edge current in the thermodynamic limit for a large class of models of lattice fermions with finite-range interactions satisfying local indistinguishability of the Gibbs state, a condition known to hold for sufficiently high temperatures. Our result implies that edge currents in such systems are determined by bulk properties and are therefore stable against large perturbations near the boundaries. Moreover, the equality persists also after taking the derivative with respect to the chemical potential. We show that this form of bulk-edge correspondence is essentially a consequence of homogeneity in the bulk and locality of the Gibbs state. An important intermediate result is a new version of Bloch’s theorem for two-dimensional systems, stating that persistent currents vanish in the bulk.
Silence as complicity and action as silence
Authors: Donohue J. L. A.
Published: November 2024

Silence sometimes constitutes moral complicity. We see this when protestors take to the streets against racial injustice. Think of signs with the words: “Silence is complicity.” We see this in instances of sexual harassment, when we learn that many knew and said nothing. We see this in cases of wrongdoing within a company or organization, when it becomes clear that many were aware of the negligent or criminal activity and stayed silent. In cases like this we consider agents morally complicit in virtue of their silence. Flagrant injustices cry out for action, and sometimes remaining silent amounts to complicity in those injustices. What philosophy owes us is an account of how it could be that silence constitutes complicity. In this paper I argue that one possibility is an account grounded in problematic deliberative contribution. The core idea of “deliberative complicity,” as I call it, is that agents have moral duties concerning the moral deliberation of other agents, and failures in these duties can amount to moral complicity. For example, an agent aware that a colleague is sexually harassing his students has a deliberative obligation to report the misconduct, and their silence in failing to report constitutes a failure to fulfill their deliberative obligation, a failure that grounds their moral complicity in the harassment. If my argument is successful, it provides a distinctive reason to prefer a deliberative account of moral complicity: it can capture cases of silent complicity that other views of moral complicity cannot. And further, by turning our attention toward our interpersonal deliberative obligations, a deliberative account of complicity can incorporate helpful resources from recent work in social epistemology and speech act theory as we set out to determine when and why silence amounts to complicity. And when it does, we cannot stay silent. We must speak.