bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surgical radioguidance with beta-emitting radionuclides; challenges and possibilities: A position paper by the EANM
Authors: Fragoso Costa Pedro , Shi Kuangyu , Holm Soren , Vidal-Sicart Sergi , Kracmerova Tereza , Tosi Giovanni , Grimm Jan , Visvikis Dimitris , Knapp Wolfram H. , Gnanasegaran Gopinath , van Leeuwen Fijs W. B.
Published: January 2024

Radioguidance that makes use of β-emitting radionuclides is gaining in popularity and could have potential to strengthen the range of existing radioguidance techniques. While there is a strong tendency to develop new PET radiotracers, due to favorable imaging characteristics and the success of theranostics research, there are practical challenges that need to be overcome when considering use of β-emitters for surgical radioguidance. In this position paper, the EANM identifies the possibilities and challenges that relate to the successful implementation of β-emitters in surgical guidance, covering aspects related to instrumentation, radiation protection, and modes of implementation.
A comparative analysis of foraging route development by bumblebees and honey bees
Authors: Buatois Alexis , Mailly Juliane , Dubois Thibault , Lihoreau Mathieu
Published: January 2024

Many pollinators, such as bees, hummingbirds and bats, use multi-destination routes (traplines) to exploit familiar plant resources. However, it is not clear to what extent the mechanisms underpinning trapline development and optimisation are comparable across species. Here we compared route formation, repeatability and efficiency by foragers of two social bee species, the solo foraging bumblebee Bombus terrestris and the mass foraging honey bee Apis mellifera, in the same laboratory conditions. In a simple routing task (with four artificial flowers), all bumblebees and honey bees developed a route, although honey bees were slower to do so. In a more complex routing task (with six flowers), however, only bumblebees developed a route between the 6 flowers. Honey bees took a longer time to discover all flowers and developed routes between fewer flowers. Comparing bumblebees and honey bees using the same experimental paradigm thus revealed key behavioural differences likely resulting from their contrasting collective foraging strategies.
Psychotherapie wirkt
Authors: Flückiger Christoph , Willutzki Ulrike , grosse Holtforth Martin , Wampold Bruce E.
Published: January 2024

Psychotherapie ist eine kooperative und individualisierte Behandlung zur Förderung der psychischen Gesundheit, die sich in (post-)modernen Gesellschaften weiterentwickelt. Psychotherapieerfolg umfasst ein breites Spektrum von Kriterien, wie beispielsweise die Verringerung von symptombezogenem Leidensdruck sowie die Förderung von Wohlbefinden, persönlichen Werten, Stärken und psychosozialer Partizipation. Es liegen umfangreiche metaanalytische Belege dafür vor, dass Psychotherapie bei den häufigsten psychischen Störungen und deren Komorbidität bemerkenswert gut und stabil wirkt. Darüber hinaus gibt es eine Vielzahl metaanalytischer Belege für die potenzielle Relevanz transtheoretischer Beziehungs- und Wirkprinzipien. Ausgehend von der Darstellung des sich kontinuierlich entwickelnden evidenzbasierten Konsolidierungsprozesses werden im vorliegenden Beitrag Schlussfolgerungen für die zukünftige Aus- und Weiterbildung sowie die Praxis einer transtheoretisch orientierten Psychotherapie gezogen. Der Beitrag schließt mit allgemeineren Hinweisen auf zukünftige Ziele in transtheoretischer Psychotherapie.
Lipschitz-agnostic, efficient and accurate rendering of implicit surfaces
Authors: Winchenbach Rene , Möller Michael , Kolb Andreas
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we propose an accurate and controllable rendering process for implicit surfaces with no or unknown analytic Lipschitz constants. Our process is built upon a ray-casting approach where we construct an adaptive Chebyshev proxy along each ray to perform an accurate intersection test via a robust and multi-stage searching method. By taking into account approximation errors and numerical conditions, our methods comprise several pre-conditioning and post-processing stages to improve the numerical accuracy, which potentially applied recursively. The intersection search is performed by evaluating a QR decomposition on the Chebyshev proxy function, which can be done in a numerically accurate way. Our process achieves comparable accuracy to other techniques that impose more constraints on the surface, e.g., knowledge of Lipschitz constants, and higher accuracy compared to approaches that impose similar constraints as our approach.
Genetic profile of syndromic retinitis pigmentosa in Portugal
Authors: Cortinhal Telmo , Santos Cristina , Vaz-Pereira Sara , Marta Ana , Duarte Lilianne , Miranda Vitor , Costa José , Sousa Ana Berta , Peter Virginie G. , Kaminska Karolina , Rivolta Carlo , Carvalho Ana Luísa , Saraiva Jorge , Soares Célia Azevedo , Silva Rufino , Murta Joaquim , Santos Luísa Coutinho , Marques João Pedro
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) comprises a genetically and clinically heterogeneous group of inherited retinal degenerations, where 20–30% of patients exhibit extra-ocular manifestations (syndromic RP). Understanding the genetic profile of RP has important implications for disease prognosis and genetic counseling. This study aimed to characterize the genetic profile of syndromic RP in Portugal.

Methods

Multicenter, retrospective cohort study. Six Portuguese healthcare providers identified patients with a clinical diagnosis of syndromic RP and available genetic testing results. All patients had been previously subjected to a detailed ophthalmologic examination and clinically oriented genetic testing. Genetic variants were classified according to the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics; only likely pathogenic or pathogenic variants were considered relevant for disease etiology.

Results

One hundred and twenty-two patients (53.3% males) from 100 families were included. Usher syndrome was the most frequent diagnosis (62.0%), followed by Bardet-Biedl (19.0%) and Senior-Løken syndromes (7.0%). Deleterious variants were identified in 86/100 families for a diagnostic yield of 86.0% (87.1% for Usher and 94.7% for Bardet-Biedl). A total of 81 genetic variants were identified in 25 different genes, 22 of which are novel. USH2A and MYO7A were responsible for most type II and type I Usher syndrome cases, respectively. BBS1 variants were the cause of Bardet-Biedl syndrome in 52.6% of families. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) records were available at baseline and last visit for 99 patients (198 eyes), with a median follow-up of 62.0 months. The mean BCVA was 56.5 ETDRS letters at baseline (Snellen equivalent ~ 20/80), declining to 44.9 ETDRS letters (Snellen equivalent ~ 20/125) at the last available follow-up (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

This is the first multicenter study depicting the genetic profile of syndromic RP in Portugal, thus contributing toward a better understanding of this heterogeneous disease group. Usher and Bardet-Biedl syndromes were found to be the most common types of syndromic RP in this large Portuguese cohort. A high diagnostic yield was obtained, highlighting current genetic testing capabilities in providing a molecular diagnosis to most affected individuals. This has major implications in determining disease-related prognosis and providing targeted genetic counseling for syndromic RP patients in Portugal.
Single-session measures of quadriceps neuromuscular function are reliable in healthy females and unaffected by age
Authors: O’Bryan Steven J. , Hiam Danielle , Lamon Séverine
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to determine the inter-session reliability of quadriceps neuromuscular function measurements in healthy young and older females.

Methods

Twenty-six females aged 19–74 years completed two identical experimental sessions on different days. Quadriceps neuromuscular function measurements included isometric maximal voluntary force, high- and low-frequency twitch force, voluntary and evoked (H-reflex, M-wave) electromyography (EMG), and estimated maximal torque, velocity and power derived from torque–velocity relationships. Intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs), coefficients of variation (CoV) and Bland–Altman plots assessed inter-session reliability. The effect of age on reliability was assessed by linear regression.

Results

Excellent reliability (ICC > 0.8) was shown for all voluntary and evoked mechanical outcomes. Vastus lateralis EMG outcomes showed excellent reliability (ICC > 0.8) with CoVs < 12%, which were better than those of vastus medialis and rectus femoris. Age was not associated with reliability for 27/28 outcomes (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Excellent reliability of voluntary and evoked force and vastus lateralis EMG outcomes measured in healthy females can be attained in one experimental session, irrespective of age. Female neuromuscular function can be accurately assessed across the lifespan with minimal inconvenience, increasing feasibility for future research. The random error should however be considered when quantifying age-related differences in neuromuscular function.
Electrical Cardiometry during transition and short-term outcome in very preterm infants: a prospective observational study
Authors: Schwarz C. E. , O’Toole J. M. , Healy D. B. , Panaviene J. , Livingstone V. , Dempsey E. M.
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the association of Electrical Cardiometry (EC)-derived cardiac output indexed to weight (CO) and its changes during the first 48 h in relation to adverse short-term outcome in very preterm infants. In this prospective observational study of preterm infants < 32 weeks gestational age (GA), the combined adverse outcome was defined as mortality or abnormal cranial ultrasound (any grade intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) or periventricular leukomalacia) within the first 2 weeks postnatally. Logistic regression models were used to investigate the association between median CO and outcome and mixed-effects models for the time trajectory of CO. In the absence of device-specific thresholds for low or high CO, no thresholds were used in our analysis. Fifty-three infants (median (IQR) GA 29.0 (25.4–30.6) weeks, birthweight 1020 (745–1505) g) were included in the analysis. Median CO was 241 (197–275) mL/kg/min for the adverse outcome and 198 (175–227) mL/kg/min for normal outcome (odds ratio (OR) (95% confidence interval (95% CI)), 1.01 (1.00 to 1.03); p = 0.028). After adjustment for GA, the difference was not significant (adjusted OR (95% CI), 1.01 (0.99 to 1.02); p = 0.373). CO trajectory did not differ by outcome (p = 0.352). A post hoc analysis revealed an association between CO time trajectory and ICH ≥ grade 2.

          Conclusions: EC-derived CO estimates within 48 h postnatally were not independently associated with brain injury (any grade) or mortality in the first 14 days of life. CO time trajectory was found to be associated with ICH ≥ grade 2.

What is Known:• Bioreactance-derived cardiac output indexed to bodyweight (CO) in the transitional period has been associated with adverse short-term outcome in preterm infants.

What is New:• Electrical Cardiometry (EC)-derived CO measurements in very preterm infants during the transitional period are not independently associated with adverse outcome (death or ultrasound detected brain damage) within 2 weeks postnatally.• In the first 48 h EC-derived CO increases over time and is higher in extremely preterm infants compared to very preterm and differs from previously reported bioreactance-derived CO values.
Predictive Factors for Successful Decannulation in Patients with Tracheostomies and Brain Injuries: A Systematic Review
Authors: Gallice Thomas , Cugy Emmanuelle , Branchard Olivier , Dehail Patrick , Moucheboeuf Geoffroy
Published: January 2024

Neurological patients frequently have disorders of consciousness, swallowing disorders, or neurological states that are incompatible with extubation. Therefore, they frequently require tracheostomies during their stay in an intensive care unit. After the acute phase, tracheostomy weaning and decannulation are generally expected to promote rehabilitation. However, few reliable predictive factors (PFs) for decannulation have been identified in this patient population. We sought to identify PFs that may be used during tracheostomy weaning and decannulation in patients with brain injuries. We conducted a systematic review of the literature regarding potential PFs for decannulation; searches were performed on 16 March 2021 and 1 June 2022. The following databases were searched: MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, PEDro, OPENGREY, OPENSIGLE, Science Direct, CLINICAL TRIALS and CENTRAL. We searched for all article types, except systematic reviews, meta-analyses, abstracts, and position articles. Retrieved articles were published in English or French, with no date restriction. In total, 1433 articles were identified; 26 of these were eligible for inclusion in the review. PFs for successful decannulation in patients with acquired brain injuries (ABIs) included high neurological status, traumatic brain injuries rather than stroke or anoxic brain lesions, younger age, effective swallowing, an effective cough, and the absence of pulmonary infections. Secondary PFs included early tracheostomy, supratentorial lesions, the absence of critical illness polyneuropathy/myopathy, and the absence of tracheal lesions. To our knowledge, this is the first systematic review to identify PFs for decannulation in patients with ABIs. These PFs may be used by clinicians during tracheostomy weaning.
Gastrointestinal involvement in STEC-associated hemolytic uremic syndrome: 10 years in a pediatric center
Authors: Giordano Mario , Iacoviello Onofrio , Santangelo Luisa , Martino Marida , Torres Diletta , Carbone Vincenza , Scavia Gaia , Loconsole Daniela , Chironna Maria , Cristofori Fernanda , Francavilla Ruggiero
Published: January 2024

Background

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract represents one of the main targets of typical hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) in children. In this observational study, we tried to establish (1) the main features of GI complications during STEC-HUS and (2) the relationship between Escherichia coli serotypes and Shiga toxin (Stx) variants with hepatopancreatic involvement.

Methods

A total of 79 STEC-HUS patients were admitted to our pediatric nephrology department between January 2012 and June 2021. Evidence of intestinal, hepatobiliary, and pancreatic involvements was reported for each patient, alongside demographic, clinical, and laboratory features. Frequency of gastrointestinal complications across groups of patients infected by specific E. coli serotypes and Stx gene variants was evaluated.

Results

Six patients developed a bowel complication: two developed rectal prolapse, and four developed bowel perforation which resulted in death for three of them and in bowel stenosis in one patient. Acute pancreatitis was diagnosed in 13 patients. An isolated increase in pancreatic enzymes and/or liver transaminases was observed in 41 and 15 patients, respectively. Biliary sludge was detected in three, cholelithiasis in one. Forty-seven patients developed direct hyperbilirubinemia. Neither E. coli serotypes nor Shiga toxin variants correlated with hepatic or pancreatic involvement.

Conclusions

During STEC-HUS, GI complications are common, ranging from self-limited elevation of laboratory markers to bowel perforation, a severe complication with a relevant impact on morbidity and mortality. Hepatopancreatic involvement is frequent, but usually short-lasting and self-limiting.

Graphical abstract
“Fear of raising the problem without a solution”: a qualitative study of patients’ and healthcare professionals’ views regarding the integration of routine support for physical activity within breast cancer care
Authors: Gokal K. , Daley A. J. , Madigan C. D.
Published: January 2024

Objective

The benefits of physical activity across the cancer continuum for many adult cancers are well established. However, physical activity is yet to be routinely implemented into health services throughout the world. This study aims to explore patients’ and healthcare professionals’ views about integrating conversations and support for physical activity into routine care during treatment for breast cancer.

Methods

Healthcare professionals and patients from across the UK living with or beyond breast cancer were invited to take part in semi-structured interviews that were conducted online. Recruitment for the study was advertised on social media, in cancer support groups and newsletters. Data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis.

Results

Three themes captured perceptions of integrating support for physical activity in routine breast cancer care among 12 health care professionals (who deliver breast cancer care) and 15 patients. Themes between healthcare professionals and patients overlapped, and therefore, combined themes are presented. These were: (1) current practice; (2) implementation in care and (3) training needs.

Conclusion

Many healthcare professionals who offer cancer care are reluctant to raise the topic of physical activity with patients, yet patients have suggested that they would like additional support to be physically active from their medical team. Providing healthcare professionals with education regarding the benefits of physical activity to reduce the risk of recurrence along with evidence based low-cost, remote interventions would allow them to integrate conversations about physical activity within routine cancer care for all patients.
Alltägliche Wegekopplungen beim Lebensmitteleinkauf: Empirische Erkenntnisse und ihre Relevanz für die angewandte Handelsforschung
Authors: Rauh Jürgen , Rauch Sebastian
Published: January 2024

Die Ausdünnung des stationären Handelsnetzes hat vor allem in ländlichen, dünn besiedelten Räumen, aber auch in städtischen Teilräumen zu beträchtlichen Lücken in der Nahversorgung geführt. Dadurch werden neue Anforderungen an das räumliche Einkaufsverhalten und die Mobilität von Konsument*innen gestellt. Während die allgemeinen Kriterien der Einkaufsstättenwahl durchaus gut belegt sind, ist die Rolle von alltäglichen Wegekopplungen wenig untersucht. In der Standortplanung sind nach wie vor Ansätze und Modelle im Einsatz, die sich an der Nearest-Center-Hypothese orientieren; allerdings werden Lebensmitteleinkäufe relativ häufig in alltägliche Aktivitäten eingebettet. Die vorliegende Arbeit analysiert, welche Rolle alltägliche Wegekopplungen beim Lebensmitteleinkauf haben. Mithilfe einer Haushaltsbefragung (n = 2300) wurde festgestellt, dass ca. 42,5 % der letzten Einkaufwege in Verbindung mit anderen Aktivitäten standen. Weitergehend untersucht wurden die räumlichen Merkmale der erhobenen Einkaufswege und mit welchen soziodemografischen Merkmalen die Einkaufskopplungen in Verbindung stehen. Die Berücksichtigung von Wegekopplungen stellt neue Herausforderungen an die Analyse von Erreichbarkeiten in der Lebensmittelversorgung, aber auch in anderen Bereichen der individuellen Mobilität. Alltägliche Praktiken wie Arbeit oder Freizeitaktivitäten beeinflussen die Wahl des Versorgungsstandortes maßgeblich mit. Die Ergebnisse liefern neue empirische Daten für eine tiefergehende Analyse alltäglicher Aktionsräume und eine Grundlage für weitere Modellierungen im Bereich der Standortanalyse und Marktforschung.
Microvascular status in juvenile Sjögren’s disease: the first nailfold videocapillaroscopy investigation
Authors: Lercara Adriano , Malattia Clara , Hysa Elvis , Gattorno Marco , Cere Andrea , Lavarello Claudio , Vojinovic Tamara , Gotelli Emanuele , Paolino Sabrina , Sulli Alberto , Pizzorni Carmen , Smith Vanessa , Cutolo Maurizio
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Juvenile Sjögren’s disease (jSjD) is a rare autoimmune disease characterized by exocrine gland involvement and systemic manifestations, including small vessel vasculitis and Raynaud’s phenomenon (RP). We aimed to investigate the microvascular status in jSjD patients by nailfold videocapillaroscopy (NVC) and the potential correlations with clinical and serological features.

Methods

Clinical data from thirteen consecutive jSjD patients (11 females and 2 males), with a mean age of 16 ± 4 years, diagnosed before 16 years of age (mean age at diagnosis 12 ± 3) according to the 2016 American College of Rheumatology/EULAR criteria for adult SjD, were collected including age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HCs). Clinical, laboratory, and instrumental data were collected, together with NVC examination. Non-specific and specific NVC parameters were investigated, such as capillary density, capillary dilations, giant capillaries, microhaemorrhages and abnormal shapes. Associations between NVC findings and clinical/serological features were explored and analysed using parametrical and non-parametrical tests.

Results

Capillary density reduction correlated significantly with articular involvement (arthralgias) (p = 0.024). Microhaemorrhages correlated with lower C3 levels (p = 0.034). No specific NVC pattern for jSjD was identified, whereas abnormal capillary shapes were significantly higher in jSjD patients than HCs (p = 0.005). NVC abnormalities were not associated with SjD-specific instrumental tests (biopsy, imaging, Schirmer’s test). RP was present in 8% of jSjD patients.

Conclusions

The reduction of capillary density, as well as microhaemorrhages at NVC analysis, are significantly associated with some clinical aspects like articular involvement and serum biomarkers (C3 reduction). The NVC is suggested as safe and further analysis in jSjD patients.

Key Points• Juvenile Sjögren’s disease (jSjD) exhibits a higher rate of abnormal shapes at nailfold videocapillaroscopy (NVC) compared to matched healthy controls.• Articular involvement in jSjD is significantly associated with a lower capillary number at NVC.• Microhaemorrhages on NVC are associated with lower C3 levels, prompting this finding as a putative novel negative biomarker/prognostic factor for jSjD.
Predicted changes in distribution and richness of wild edible plants under climate change scenarios in northwestern Kenya
Authors: Oluoch Wyclife Agumba , Borgemeister Christian , de Deus Vidal Junior João , Fremout Tobias , Gaisberger Hannes , Whitney Cory , Schmitt Christine B.
Published: January 2024

Wild edible plants (WEPs) can provide diverse and nutrient-rich food sources that contribute to the health and well-being of communities worldwide. In northwestern Kenya, WEPs are vital dietary components for nomadic pastoral communities with limited access to diverse cultivated food crops. However, the increasing impact of climate change poses a threat to these valuable food resources, and their sustainable utilization remains precarious. Here, we assessed the potentially suitable habitats and richness of 23 selected WEPs in the region using a species distribution modeling (SDM) approach. We used species occurrence points from global databases, a national herbarium, and field surveys and made predictions spanning two future time intervals, 2041–2070 and 2071–2100, across three shared socioeconomic pathways (126, 370, and 585) using bioclimatic variables from five global circulation models. We also included soil and topographic variables in our models. We calibrated maximum entropy models using individually tuned parameters. Our future predictions showed a predominant decline in habitat suitability for half the studied WEPs. The richness of the selected WEPs are predicted to remain rather stable under projected future climates concentrating in southern parts of Turkana County. Conservation and management measures need to consider the changing availability of these valuable resources in order to underpin the dietary diversification of local communities.
The impact of an ‘evergreening’ strategy nearing patent expiration on the uptake of biosimilars and public healthcare costs: a case study on the introduction of a second administration form of trastuzumab in The Netherlands
Authors: Kirshner Ghyli , Makai Peter , Brouns Chiara , Timmers Lonneke , Kemp Ron
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we explore dynamic market share and public healthcare costs of trastuzumab’s evergreening (subcutaneous) variant during introduction of trastuzumab’s competitive biosimilar variants in the Netherlands. We used a time series design to assess dynamic market share of trastuzumab’s evergreening variant after introducing trastuzumab’s biosimilar variants, focusing on the number of treatments and patients. The public healthcare costs of this evergreening strategy were estimated using administrative claims data. Our results show that the original trastuzumab was completely replaced by the subcutaneous and biosimilar variants. The uptake of the subcutaneous form peaked at 50% market share but after the introduction of biosimilars progressively reduced to a market share of 20%, resulting in a more competitive market structure. The public healthcare costs for trastuzumab significantly decreased after the introduction of the biosimilars. After the introduction of the biosimilars, a substantial price drop is visible, with the subcutaneous version, still under patent, also falling sharply in price but less strongly than the iv/biosimilar version. As the costs are publicly funded, we recommend a more explicit societal debate to consider if the potential benefits of subcutaneous Herceptin® (and other similar medicines) are worth the additional costs, and at which price it should be reimbursed as the part of the benefit package.
Students’ socioeconomic status and teacher beliefs about learning as predictors of students’ mathematical competence
Authors: Haataja Eeva S. H. , Niemivirta Markku , Holm Marja E. , Ilomanni Pia , Laine Anu
Published: January 2024

The learning context, consisting of the school children’s families, teachers, and peers, has effect on their mathematics learning. The concern of students’ socioeconomic status (SES) affecting negatively their learning outcomes is increasing worldwide. This study investigates whether Finnish elementary school students’ SES affects their mathematical competence and success expectancy on individual and class levels. Additionally, the role of teachers’ beliefs on mathematics learning and class composition on the mathematics competence and success expectancy on the class level is explored. To analyze the nested data from student questionnaires and mathematics tests, and their teachers’ questionnaires, we used multilevel structural equation modelling with two levels (1, individual; 2, class). The results indicate that on the individual level, the gender and SES affect students’ mathematical competence and success expectancy in mathematics. On the class level, the teacher’s evaluations of academic class composition predicted students’ mathematical competence, and the teachers’ constructivist beliefs of mathematics learning and class composition regarding students’ special needs predicted students’ success expectancy. We conclude that students with disadvantaged SES need support on success expectancy to flourish in mathematics. On the class level, this support can be conveyed through teachers’ constructivist pedagogical beliefs.
Spectral approximation scheme for a hybrid, spin-density Kohn–Sham density-functional theory in an external (nonuniform) magnetic field and a collinear exchange-correlation energy
Authors: Melgaard M. , Syrjanen V. J. J.
Published: January 2024

We provide a mathematical justification of a spectral approximation scheme known as spectral binning for the Kohn–Sham spin density-functional theory in the presence of an external (nonuniform) magnetic field and a collinear exchange-correlation energy term. We use an extended density-only formulation for modeling the magnetic system. No current densities enter the description in this formulation, but the particle density is split into different spin components. By restricting the exchange-correlation energy functional to be of a collinear LSDA form, we prove a series of results which enable us to mathematically justify the spectral binning scheme using the method of Gamma-convergence, in conjunction with auxiliary steps involving recasting the electrostatic potentials, justifying the spectral approximation by making a spectral decomposition of the Hamiltonian and “linearizing" the latter Hamiltonian.
A medical chart audit to assess endocrinologist perceptions of the burden of endogenous Cushing’s syndrome
Authors: Page-Wilson Gabrielle , Oak Bhagyashree , Silber Abigail , Meyer James , O’Hara Matthew , Geer Eliza B.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study was undertaken to assess the unmet needs within the endogenous Cushing’s syndrome (CS) care paradigm from the endocrinologist’s perspective, including data abstracted from patient charts. The study evaluated endocrinologists’ perceptions on burden of illness and treatment rationale along with the long-term clinical burden of CS, tolerability of CS treatments, and healthcare resource utilization for CS.

Methods

Retrospective medical chart data from treated patients with a confirmed diagnosis of CS was abstracted using a cross-sectional survey to collect data from qualified endocrinologists. The survey included a case report form to capture patient medical chart data and a web-enabled questionnaire to capture practitioner-level data pertaining to endocrinologists’ perceptions of disease burden, CS treatments, and treatment attributes.

Results

Sixty-nine endocrinologists abstracted data from 273 unique medical charts of patients with CS. Mean patient age was 46.5 ± 13.4 years, with a 60:40 (female:male) gender split. The mean duration of endogenous CS amongst patients was 4.1 years. Chart data indicated that patients experienced a high burden of comorbidities and symptoms, including fatigue, weight gain, and muscle weakness despite multi-modal treatment. When evaluating treatments for CS, endocrinologists rated improvement in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) as the most important treatment attribute (mean score = 7.8; on a scale of 1 = Not at all important to 9 = Extremely important). Surgical intervention was the modality endocrinologists were most satisfied with, but they agreed that there was a significant unmet treatment need for patients with CS.

Conclusion

Endocrinologists recognized that patients with CS suffered from a debilitating condition with a high symptomatic and HRQoL burden and reported that improvement in HRQoL was the key treatment attribute influencing their treatment choices. This study highlights unmet needs for patients with CS. Patients with CS have a high rate of morbidity and comorbidity, even after treatment.
A National Approach to Promoting Health Equity in Cardiovascular Disease Prevention: Implementation Science Strengths, Opportunities, and a Changing Chronic Disease Context
Authors: Fulmer Erika B. , Rasool Aysha , Jackson Sandra L. , Vaughan Marla , Luo Feijun
Published: January 2024

In the USA, structural racism contributes to higher rates of cardiovascular disease (CVD) including hypertension, heart disease, and stroke among African American persons. Evidence-based interventions (EBIs), which include programs, policies, and practices, can help mitigate health inequities, but have historically been underutilized or misapplied among communities experiencing discrimination and exclusion. This commentary on the special issue of Prevention Science, “Advancing the Adaptability of Chronic Disease Prevention and Management Through Implementation Science,” describes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention’s (DHDSP’s) efforts to support implementation practice and highlights several studies in the issue that align with DHDSP’s methods and mission. This work includes EBI identification, scale, and spread as well as health services and policy research. We conclude that implementation practice to enhance CVD health equity will require greater coordination with diverse implementation science partners as well as continued innovation and capacity building to ensure meaningful community engagement throughout EBI development, translation, dissemination, and implementation.
Application of a simplified ADM1 for full-scale anaerobic co-digestion of cattle slurry and grass silage: assessment of input variability
Authors: Tisocco Sofia , Weinrich Sören , Lyons Gary , Wills Michael , Zhan Xinmin , Crosson Paul
Published: January 2024

Mathematical modeling of anaerobic digestion is a powerful tool to predict gas yields and optimize the process. The Anaerobic Digestion Model No. 1 (ADM1) is a widely implemented model for this purpose. However, modeling full-scale biogas plants is challenging due to the extensive substrate and parameter characterization required. This study describes the modification of the ADM1 through a simplification of individual process phases, characteristic components and required parameters. Consequently, the ability of the simplified model to simulate the co-digestion of grass silage and cattle slurry was evaluated using data from a full-scale biogas plant. The impacts of substrate composition (crude carbohydrate, protein and lipid concentration) and variability of carbohydrate degradability on simulation results were assessed to identify the most influential parameters. Results indicated that the simplified version was able to depict biogas and biomethane production with average model efficiencies, according to the Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE) coefficient, of 0.70 and 0.67, respectively, and was comparable to the original ADM1 (average model efficiencies of 0.71 and 0.63, respectively). The variability of crude carbohydrate, protein and lipid concentration did not significantly impact biogas and biomethane output for the data sets explored. In contrast, carbohydrate degradability seemed to explain much more of the variability in the biogas and methane production. Thus, the application of simplified models provides a reliable basis for the process simulation and optimization of full-scale agricultural biogas plants.
Circadian functioning and time perspectives: associations with eveningness, morning affect, and amplitude distinctness
Authors: Carciofo Richard
Published: January 2024

Well-established correlates of morningness-eveningness include those of morningness with more future Time Perspective (TP), and eveningness with more present TP. However, research into these relationships has used unidimensional measures of morningness-eveningness. So, the current study aimed to further understanding by assessing associations between TP and the separate components of Morning Affect (MA: alertness/sleep inertia after awakening) and Distinctness (DI; amplitude of diurnal variations of functioning), in addition to Eveningness (EV; time-of-day preference). Chinese university students (N = 299, aged 18–25, 94 males, 205 females) completed an online survey with questionnaire measures of TP, MA, DI, EV, and other measures including mind wandering, conscientiousness, life satisfaction, positive and negative affect, and sleep quality. Previously demonstrated correlations were replicated, including positive correlations between Future TP, conscientiousness, and life satisfaction, and Past-negative TP and more negative affect. MA positively correlated with Future TP, and negatively correlated with Past-negative TP and Deviation from Balanced Time Perspective (DBTP); DI positively correlated with Past-negative TP, and with DBTP, and negatively correlated with Future TP; EV positively correlated with Present-hedonistic TP, and negatively correlated with Future TP. The EV-Future TP association was mediated by MA. Path models were consistent with the view that the relationship between EV and less Future TP may involve impaired functioning and reduced self-control/self-regulation associated with experiencing lower Morning Affect. This research shows relationships between time perspectives and specific components of circadian functioning, indicating the value of component-level analysis and the limitations of research utilising unidimensional measures of morningness-eveningness.
Long-term clinical outcomes and health-related quality of life in patients with isolated methylmalonic acidemia after liver transplantation: experience from the largest cohort study in China
Authors: Jiang Yi-Zhou , Zhou Guang-Peng , Wei Lin , Qu Wei , Zeng Zhi-Gui , Liu Ying , Tan Yu-Le , Wang Jun , Zhu Zhi-Jun , Sun Li-Ying
Published: January 2024

Background

Liver transplantation (LT) has been proposed as a viable treatment option for selected methylmalonic acidemia (MMA) patients. However, there are still controversies regarding the therapeutic value of LT for MMA. The systematic assessment of health-related quality of life (HRQoL)-targeted MMA children before and after LT is also undetermined. This study aimed to comprehensively assess the long-term impact of LT on MMA, including multiorgan sequelae and HRQoL in children and families.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 15 isolated MMA patients undergoing LT at our institution between June 2013 and March 2022. Pre- and post-transplant data were compared, including metabolic profiles, neurologic consequences, growth parameters, and HRQoL. To further assess the characteristics of the HRQoL outcomes in MMA, we compared the results with those of children with biliary atresia (BA).

Results

All patients had early onset MMA, and underwent LT at a mean age of 4.3 years. During 1.3–8.2 years of follow-up, the patient and graft survival rates were 100%. Metabolic stability was achieved in all patients with liberalized dietary protein intake. There was a significant overall improvement in height Z scores (P = 0.0047), and some preexisting neurological complications remained stable or even improved after LT. On the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL™) generic core scales, the mean total, physical health, and psychosocial health scores improved significantly posttransplant (P < 0.05). In the family impact module, higher mean scores were noted for all subscales post-LT, especially family function and daily activities (P < 0.01). However, the total scores on the generic core scales and transplant module were significantly lower (Cohen’s d = 0.57–1.17) when compared with BA recipients. In particular, social and school functioning (Cohen’s d = 0.86–1.76), treatment anxiety, and communication (Cohen’s d = 0.99–1.81) were far behind, with a large effect size.

Conclusions

This large single-center study of the mainland of China showed an overall favorable impact of LT on isolated MMA in terms of long-term survival, metabolic control, and HRQoL in children and families. The potential for persistent neurocognitive impairment and inherent metabolic fragility requires long-term special care.
Gewalt gegen Frauen
Authors: Höppner Grit
Published: January 2024

In dem Beitrag wird der Frage nachgegangen, warum gewaltbetroffene Frauen ab 50 Jahren, Frauen aus mittleren und höheren Bildungs- und Einkommensschichten und Frauen mit Behinderungen Angebote der Sozialen Arbeit selten nutzen, obwohl diese Angebote bei der Be- und Verarbeitung von Gewalterleben hilfreich sind. Zur Beantwortung dieser Frage werden mittels einer intersektionalen Mehrebenenanalyse Barrieren in der Inanspruchnahme dieser Angebote herausgearbeitet. Grundlage bilden jeweils zehn Interviews mit betroffenen Frauen und Fachkräften sowie zehn Websites, die inhaltsanalytisch ausgewertet wurden. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass Frauen im Verlauf des Gewalterlebens vier Abwägungsprozesse durchlaufen, in denen Bewertungsmaßstäbe, der Gewaltbegriff, Einstellungen und einrichtungsbezogene Spezifika zu Barrieren werden können und, dass die Entscheidung zur Nutzung von Angeboten der Sozialen Arbeit aufgrund der vielfältigen Subjektpositionen von Frauen stets in der Verschränkung mit der Strukturebene zu betrachten ist. Diese Ergebnisse schärfen das Bewusstsein für einen differenzsensiblen Gewaltschutz, damit Soziale Arbeit den eigenen Anspruch, ein Unterstützungssystem für alle gewaltbetroffenen Frauen zu sein, auch einlösen kann.
A novel cholesterol metabolism-related ferroptosis pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Fang Weiwei , Liu Jianyong , Zhang Fanguo , Pang Cheng , Li Xiying
Published: January 2024

Background

Emerging studies have reported the contribution of cholesterol to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression. However, the specific role and mechanism of cholesterol metabolism on spontaneous and progressive HCC development from the point of view of ferroptosis are still worth exploring. The present study aimed to reveal a novel mechanism of cholesterol metabolism-related ferroptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma cells.

Methods

Two microarray datasets (GSE25097, GSE22058) related to HCC were downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets. Metabolomics analysis was performed by ultra performance liquid chromatography - tandem mass spectrometer (UPLC-MS/MS). The cholesterol-related proteins were downloaded from HMBD. Ferroptosis-related genes were extracted from FerrDb database. Data sets were separated into two groups. GSE25097 was used to identify ferroptosis-related genes, and GSE22058 was used to verify results. During these processes, chemical–protein interaction (CPI), protein–protein interaction (PPI), the Gene Ontology (GO), and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were conducted. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to test the associated pathway.

Results

We identified 8 differentially expressed ferroptosis-related genes (HAMP, PTGS2, IL1B, ALOX15B, CDKN2A, RRM2, NQO1 and KIF20A) and 4 differentially expressed cholesterol-related genes (LCAT, CH25H, CEL and CYP7A1). Furthermore, based on the predicted results with STITCH, we identified indomethacin and IL1B as the essential node for cholesterol-mediated ferroptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma cell. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed the activities of plasma IL1B in liver cancer patients enrolled have been significantly affected by the level of plasma cholesterol (P < 0.001) and the test result of IL1B is a predictor variable causing the changes of serum Fe levels (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our findings shed new light on the association between cholesterol metabolism and ferroptosis in HCC, and suggest that IL1B is the necessary node for cholesterol to lead to ferroptosis process in HCC. Also, we identified the potential role of indomethacin in adjuvant therapy of HCC with complications of abnormal cholesterol metabolism.
The development status of PET radiotracers for evaluating neuroinflammation
Authors: Lee Namhun , Choi Jae Yong , Ryu Young Hoon
Published: January 2024

Neuroinflammation is associated with the pathophysiologies of neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders. Evaluating neuroinflammation using positron emission tomography (PET) plays an important role in the early diagnosis and determination of proper treatment of brain diseases. To quantify neuroinflammatory responses in vivo, many PET tracers have been developed using translocator proteins, imidazole-2 binding site, cyclooxygenase, monoamine oxidase-B, adenosine, cannabinoid, purinergic P2X7, and CSF-1 receptors as biomarkers. In this review, we introduce the latest developments in PET tracers that can image neuroinflammation, focusing on clinical trials, and further consider their current implications.
Cognitive Weeding: An Approach to Single-Plant Specific Weed Regulation
Authors: Niemeyer Mark , Renz Marian , Pukrop Maren , Hagemann David , Zurheide Tim , Di Marco Daniel , Höferlin Markus , Stark Philipp , Rahe Florian , Igelbrink Matthias , Jenz Mario , Jarmer Thomas , Trautz Dieter , Stiene Stefan , Hertzberg Joachim
Published: January 2024

This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the architecture required to implement selective weeding in arable farming, as developed within the Cognitive Weeding project. This end-to-end architecture begins with data acquisition utilizing drones, robots, or agricultural machinery, followed by data management, AI-based data annotation, knowledge-based inference to determine the necessary treatment, resulting in an application map for selective hoeing. The paper meticulously details the various components of the architecture and illustrates through examples how they are interconnected.
A novel CE-PT-MABAC method for T-spherical uncertain linguistic multiple attribute group decision-making
Authors: Wang Haolun , Feng Liangqing , Ullah Kifayat , Garg Harish
Published: January 2024

A T-spherical uncertain linguistic set (TSULS) is not only an expanded form of the T-spherical fuzzy set and the uncertain linguistic set but can also integrate the quantitative judging ideas and qualitative assessing information of decision-makers. For the description of complex and uncertain assessment data, TSULS is a powerful tool for the precise description and reliable processing of information data. However, the existing multi-attribute border approximation area comparison (MABAC) method has not been studied in TSULS. Thus, the goal of this paper is to extend and improve the MABAC method to tackle group decision-making problems with completely unknown weight information in the TSUL context. First, the cross-entropy measure and the interactive operation laws for the TSUL numbers are defined, respectively. Then, the two interactive aggregation operators for TSUL numbers are developed, namely T-spherical uncertain linguistic interactive weighted averaging and T-spherical uncertain linguistic interactive weighted geometric operators. Their effective properties and some special cases are also investigated. Subsequently, a new TSULMAGDM model considering the DM’s behavioral preference and psychology is built by integrating the interactive aggregation operators, the cross-entropy measure, prospect theory, and the MABAC method. To explore the effectiveness and practicability of the proposed model, an illustrative example of Sustainable Waste Clothing Recycling Partner selection is presented, and the results show that the optimal solution is h3. Finally, the reliable, valid, and generalized nature of the method is further verified through sensitivity analysis and comparative studies with existing methods.
Enhancing the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Cast Aluminum Matrix Composites Through Nano-Al2O3 Reinforcement via CMT and PMC Welding
Authors: Işıtan Arzum , Aytekin Süleyman , Onar Volkan
Published: January 2024

In this investigation, two distinct composites were produced using the liquid metallurgy vortex-route method with an aluminum AA6013 matrix and 0.5% and 1% nano-Al2O3 reinforcement by weight. The effects of nano-Al2O3 ceramic particles added into the AA6013 alloy to increase the hardness and strength of the composite were investigated. Samples for welding were prepared from cast composite materials with dimensions of 250 × 110 × 60 mm. The obtained specimens were joined via butt welding at 110-A and 120-A current intensities, and at a constant speed of 400 mm/min by cold metal transfer (CMT) and pulse multi-control (PMC) welding methods. Using the use of micro- and macrostructural evaluations, hardness measurements, and tensile testing, the impacts of each welding parameter on the mechanical characteristics and weld structure of the cast composites were examined. The composite material with 0.5% nano-Al2O3 reinforcement that was joined at 120 A utilizing the CMT process achieved the highest tensile strength value at 96.6 MPa. At 110-A and 120-A welding current values, 0.5% reinforced composite demonstrated the maximum strength in both welding techniques.