bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ventricular interdependent phenotype of mixed Cpc‐pulmonary hypertension and HFpEF with normal left atrium: Impact on CPET metrics and clinical outcomes
Authors: Zampierollo‐Jaramillo Giovanna , Abed Anas , El Shaer Ahmed , Garcia‐Arango Mariana , Chen Yimin , Tehrani Babak , Tu Wanxin , Arif Abdul Wahab , Heffernan Shannon , Esmaeeli Amir , Sahai Aditya , Runo James , Baber Aurangzeb , Masri Sofia C. , Raza Farhan
Published: October 2024

Among 45 CpcPH/heart failure with preserved ejection fraction participants, 11 with normal left atrium (compared to 34 with abnormal left atrium, p < 0.05 for all) had low left ventricle (LV) transmural pressure (2.9 ± 2.4 vs. 6.2 ± 2.9 mmHg), and increased right ventricle (RV):LV ratio (2.41 ± 1.09 vs. 1.46 ± 0.66) and interventricular septal angle (149 ± 8 vs. 136 ± 10), indicating exaggerated ventricular interdependence from a dilated RV.
Enhancing Maneuverability in a Variable Wheelbase Wheeled Mobile Robot Through Dynamic Steering Curvature Control
Authors: Qi Huanan , Li Xinyu , Ding Liang , Cheng Qiannan , Gao Haibo , Terze Zdravko , Deng Zongquan
Published: October 2024

Variable wheelbase wheeled mobile robot (VW‐WMR) is capable of maneuvering flexibly and traversing on rough and soil terrains within confined spaces. While the steering radius of the robot model can be robustly changed by the variable wheelbase length, a challenge is posed in accurately tracking a predefined trajectory through the alteration of wheelbase length. A dynamic steering curvature (DSC) control method is proposed in this work to overcome this challenge, which is achieved by two different approaches utilizing the variable wheelbase length and manipulating drifting motions. First, to enable flexible trajectory adjustments, a 3D Ackermann kinematics model, incorporating the lifting motion of the robot box, is developed to control steering curvature by the changes in wheelbase length. Second, to achieve flexible movement for the inner and outer curves of the originally planned curvilinear trajectory, Ackermann drift models are presented by the establishment of two sequence instantaneous centers. Furthermore, the control performance of DSC is validated through simulation experiments on the ROSTDyn Vortex platform, using a six‐wheeled VW‐WMR named HIT‐MRII robot. The effectiveness of DSC for strategically altering the robot's motion trajectory is demonstrated by the results, which show the relation between the changed trajectory position and the variation in wheelbase length, and the variation in the radii of the instantaneous centers (ICs) in the Ackermann drift model, respectively. In addition, the high maneuverability of the robot using the Ackermann model is proven by physical experiments during steering motions on soil terrain. A comprehensive advantage is demonstrated by the results via Ackermann models, which include shorter runtimes, moderate travel distances, and moderate variations in force on the wheels, compared to different velocity, crabbing motion, and equivalent bicycle models.
When colleagues compete outside the firm
Authors: Grohsjean Thorsten , Piezunka Henning , Mickeler Maren
Published: October 2024

Research Summary

Collaboration among employees is the bedrock of an organization, but we suggest that it can be undermined by their extra‐organizational affiliations. We point to the hidden but common constellation of two coworkers who are also affiliated with organizations that compete with one another. We hypothesize that such colleagues collaborate less with one another when performing on behalf of their shared employer. Using data from professional soccer, we provide empirical evidence. We outline implications for research on extra‐organizational affiliations, intraorganizational collaboration, competition and rivalry, and social networks.

Managerial Summary

Imagine two soccer players who play for the same soccer club – but compete against one another when they perform on behalf of their national team (i.e., the two players have different nationalities). We show that the two soccer players collaborate less (i.e., play fewer passes to each other) at their club after encountering each other as opponents when performing on behalf of their national teams. This finding in the context of sports has implications for firms. Managers of the same firm may serve on boards of directors of companies that compete with each other, and employees may support political parties that compete – eventually hindering internal collaboration.
Tumor‐Selective Nano‐Dispatcher Enforced Cancer Immunotherapeutic Effects via Regulating Lactate Metabolism and Activating Toll‐Like Receptors
Authors: Liu Yang , Li Hui , Hao Yan‐Yun , Huang Ling‐Ling , Li Xia , Zou Jing , Zhang Shi‐Ying , Yang Xiao‐Yue , Chen Hong‐Fei , Guo Yi‐Xuan , Guan Yun‐Yan , Zhang Zhi‐Yue
Published: October 2024

The development of tumors relies on lactate metabolic reprogramming to facilitate their unchecked growth and evade immune surveillance. This poses a significant challenge to the efficacy of antitumor immunity. To address this, a tumor‐selective nano‐dispatcher, PIMDQ/Syro‐RNP, to enforce the immunotherapeutic effect through regulation of lactate metabolism and activation of toll‐like receptors is developed. By using the tumor‐targeting properties of c‐RGD, the system can effectively deliver monocarboxylate transporters 4 (MCT4) inhibitor (Syro) to inhibit lactate efflux in tumor cells, leading to decreased lactate levels in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and increased accumulation within tumor cells. The reduction of lactate in TME will reduce the nutritional support for regulatory T cells (Tregs) and promote the effector function of T cells. The accumulation of lactate in tumor cells will lead to tumor death due to cellular acidosis. In addition, it will also reduce the uptake of glucose by tumor cells, reduce nutrient plunder, and further weaken the inhibition of T cell function. Furthermore, the pH‐responsive release of Toll‐like receptors (TLR) 7/8 agonist IMDQ within the TME activates dendritic cells (DCs) and promotes the infiltration of T cells. These findings offer a promising approach for enhancing tumor immune response through targeted metabolic interventions.
Improved Corona Resistance of Epoxy Resin for Gas‐Insulated Equipment in Nitrogen Gas by Direct Fluorination
Authors: Zheng Hanbo , Xia Yuting , Dong Manling , Zhan Zhenyu , Yang Zhifei , An Zhenlian
Published: October 2024

Direct fluorination has demonstrated efficacy in modulating the surface electrical properties of epoxy insulators and preventing surface charge accumulation. Comparative corona treatments were conducted on both surface fluorinated (modified) epoxy samples and untreated (virgin/original) samples using a modified electrode setup in a nitrogen (N2) atmosphere. The purpose was to evaluate the resistance of the modified epoxy surface layer against corona discharge. The results of ATR‐IR analysis and SEM surface and cross‐sectional imaging indicate that corona treatment did not alter the chemical composition of the fluorinated sample or the thickness of the fluorinated layer. Based on assessments of potential decay and water contact angle measurements, the surface conductivity of the modified sample was decreased by corona treatment. The wettability of fluorinated sample remained unchanged after corona treatment, and no soluble degradation products were produced. Conversely, the surface conductivity of the virgin sample exhibited an increase following corona treatment, accompanied by the formation of soluble degradation products. These results confirm that direct fluorination improves the epoxy insulator's discharge resistance in N2 and provides technical support for enhancing the electrical performance of epoxy insulators in gas insulated equipment. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Advances in neuroscience research and big data's analysis on anxiety disorder
Authors: Yu Qianmei , Ruan Meihua , Chen Yongjun , Wang Chun
Published: October 2024

Anxiety disorder is a complex disease with the influence of environmental and genetic factors and multimolecular participation, and it is also one of the most common mental disorders. The causes of disorders are not clear but may include a variety of social, psychological, and biological factors. Therefore, neither genetics, neurobiology, nor neuroimaging can independently explain the pathological mechanism. By searching the Web of Science databases, Derwent Innovation Patent database, ClinicalTrials.gov database, and Cortellis database, we analyze the current situation of papers, patents, clinical trials, and drugs of anxiety disorder. Second, the existing literature was reviewed to summarize the neurophysiological mechanism, brain imaging, gene, anti‐anxiety drugs, and other aspects of anxiety disorders. This article reviews the research status of anxiety disorders. The heterogeneity of the disease, lack of treatment effectiveness, and gaps in translational medicine still present barriers to further advancement. Thus, in‐depth explorations of the underlying biological mechanisms of anxiety disorders, the detection and intervention of biological targets, and further developments based on existing intervention strategies will drive future research on anxiety disorders.

This article is categorized under:

Neuroscience > Clinical
Application of coupled MIKE SHE/MIKE HYDRO on streamflow dynamics under climate change in Lake Tana sub basin, Abay Basin, Ethiopia
Authors: Fetene Damte Tegegne , Lohani Tarun Kumar , Mohammed Abdella Kemal
Published: October 2024

Water availability and quality are fluctuating due to climate change, which has disastrous effects on life. Modeling climate change impact on streamflow in the Lake Tana sub‐basin (LTSB) in selected watersheds was the main goal of the research. This research is unique in that it applies the coupled MIKE SHE/MIKE HYDRO model technique, which has not been applied before to investigate changes in streamflow due to climate change in LTSB. Streamflow in the LTSB was forecasted using the MIKE SHE/MIKE HYDRO model from seven ensembles of GCMs under two emission scenarios (SSP2–4.5 and SSP5–8.5) between 2041 and 2,100. According to the calibration and validation results in the period of 1985–2007, MIKE SHE performs well while simulating streamflow in LTSB. During calibration and validation, the Nash‐Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE) values in all watersheds were greater than 0.8, except for the Ribb watershed calibration, where it was 0.75. The mean monthly changes in temperatures indicate an incremental tendency in the next decades. According to the simulation result, the monthly mean rainfall for SSP2–4.5 and SSP5–8.5 will increase from 0.05 to 61.9% and 2.02 to 46.26% in the 2050s and 8.7 to 44.38% to 6.44 to 66.24% in the 2080s, respectively. Gilgle Abay, Gumara, and Ribb watersheds will lose 56.2, 56.65, 57.01% of their mean monthly streamflow in the 2050s, according to SSP2–4.5. For the Gilgle Abay, Gumara, and Ribb watersheds, streamflow will increase by 6.7% to 21.94%, 6.08% to 23.26%, and 6.51% to 22.88%, accordingly, in the 2050s under SSP5–8.5. Increased rainfall in the watershed could result in floods in the already‐flooded Gumara and Ribb flood plains. The government and community should implement coping mechanisms to lessen the impact of climate change like early warring and planting more trees. Overall, the study showed that it is expected that conditions related to streamflow may change in the future due to climate alteration. By offering a better understanding of current and future climates, the integrated modeling system developed can assist environmentalists, hydrologists, and policymakers in water management and policy intervention.
Spatial variation in physicochemical water quality parameters associated with Rice farming in the Dakalt Branch Canal, Kafrelsheikh governorate, Egypt
Authors: Ochieng Onyango Cersey , Morara Ogendi George , Samir Donia Noha
Published: October 2024

The inappropriate use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in rice farming has been identified as a significant source of pollution in the aquatic environments. The declining water quality has been a cause of concern for the riparian communities owing to ill health associated with the usage of contaminated water from lotic systems draining such rice‐growing areas and its potential to cause lethal and sublethal effects on aquatic organisms. The spatial variation of selected water quality parameters was assessed using multivariate techniques. Data from three sampling stations, collected in triplicates, were analyzed to understand the effects of rice farming practices on the Dakalt Branch Canal's water quality. Eleven physicochemical parameters were measured in situ with a portable multimeter, while nutrients and other chemical parameters were determined following the standard procedures outlined in the American Public Health Association using the UV/Visible spectrophotometer. One‐way ANOVA was used to establish whether or not there were significant differences among means of various parameters. The findings revealed considerable spatial variability in the means for nearly all water quality parameters (p < 0.05). The Water Quality Index revealed that all the sampling stations were polluted with indices of more than 100. We conclude that poor rice management practices are responsible for the observed pollution of the River Nile and potentially lethal and sublethal effects on aquatic organisms and human health. We therefore recommend regular monitoring of the water quality of the Dakalt Branch Canal and that the relevant stakeholders, including farmers, embrace Best Management Practices, especially when applying pesticides and fertilizers.
Ranavirus Replication: New Studies Provide Answers to Old Questions
Authors: Jancovich James K. , Zhang Qi-Ya , Chinchar V. Gregory
Published: October 2024

This updated review is presented in two parts. The first, based primarily on work conducted since the discovery of the first ranavirus in the mid-1960s and extending through 2014, summarizes ranavirus taxonomy, the viral life cycle, the impact of infection on the host cell, and the host immune response to viral infection. The second part, drawing on research conducted mainly since the first edition of this monograph in 2015, describes genetic and molecular approaches for determining ranavirus gene function and outlines the role of viral gene products in orchestrating events leading to the production of infectious virions, cytopathology, and the inhibition of host anti-viral immunity. Furthermore, because our understanding of certain events in ranavirus replication remains to be elucidated, areas requiring further research are highlighted.
Ranavirus Ecology: From Individual Infections to Population Epidemiology to Community Impacts
Authors: Brunner Jesse L. , Storfer Andrew , Le Sage Emily H. , Garner Trenton W. J. , Gray Matthew J. , Hoverman Jason T.
Published: October 2024

While ranaviruses were initially a focus of scientific study primarily among virologists, the continued and growing interest in them stems largely from their impacts on host populations and communities. Here, we present an overview of what is known of ranavirus ecology in individual hosts (e.g., the many factors that influence the likelihood and outcome of ranavirus infections), in host populations and communities (e.g., transmission, persistence, and the causes of such varied outcomes of epidemics), and across landscapes, with a focus on how processes or outcomes at one level might scale up to the next level. Throughout the chapter, we also highlight important unanswered questions and research challenges and opportunities.
Biotransformation of diclofenac by Stenotrophomonas humi strain DIC_5 and toxicological examination of the resulting metabolites
Authors: Pápai Márton , Benedek Tibor , Sörös Csilla , Háhn Judit , Csenki Zsolt , Bock Illés , Táncsics András , Kriszt Balázs
Published: October 2024

The widely used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, diclofenac, detected in increasing concentrations in freshwater ecosystems, is among the most pressing environmental problems today. In this study, the bacterial isolate Stenotrophomonas humi strain DIC_5 was capable of degrading diclofenac. It eliminated 75.1% of diclofenac at an initial concentration of 1.5 mg/L after 8 days in the presence of glucose (3.0 g/L). During the process, nitro-diclofenac was identified as a resulting metabolite, whose concentration increased significantly in the bacterial medium from the 7th day of the experiment, while the concentration of diclofenac decreased correspondingly. The ecotoxicological tests on Aliivibrio fischeri and zebrafish embryos showed that the bacterial metabolites without diclofenac have a higher toxicity (up to 35.5% bacterial bioluminescence inhibition and 36.7% embryo mortality) than the diclofenac degradation residues (28% and 26.7%, respectively). Based on these results, neither diclofenac nor its degradation products exhibit toxic effects on the test organisms. Conversely, the toxic effect caused by the bacteria was reduced in the presence of diclofenac. Our work highlights the importance of using biotic controls in biotransformation trials, especially when the foreign material is applied in intermediate or environmentally relevant concentration ranges.

Key points

• Biotransformation of diclofenac by bacteria isolated from a bacterial biofilm.

• Biotransformation of diclofenac led to the formation of nitro-diclofenac.

• Microorganisms are alternatives for reducing the concentration of diclofenac in water.
Audiovestibular symptoms in systemic sclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Salvador Craig D. , Keith Brian A. , Ward Celine , Nguyen Shaun A. , Gordis Tamar , Chidarala Shreya , Brennan Emily , Rizk Habib
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Answer the following PICO question: Are patients diagnosed with systemic sclerosis (SSc) (Population) who are evaluated clinically and audiometrically (Intervention), have a higher prevalence of audiovestibular pathology when compared with non-SSc patients (Comparison), and how do they present symptomatically and on testing audiovestibular symptomatology and testing modalities (Outcome)?

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed. PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library databases were searched from inception to November 27, 2023. Studies of patients diagnosed with SSc and audiologic and vestibular symptoms were selected for review. Studies of non-SSc pathologies, studies without audiovestibular outcomes, and case reports (fewer than four patients) were excluded. A meta-analysis of proportions and comparison of weighted proportions was performed in MedCalc 20.217.

Results

Thirteen studies with 414 SSc patients and 390 control patients were included. The mean ± SD symptom duration was 108.5 ± 71.8 (range: 6-600) months for SSc patients. Comparison of proportions showed patients with SSc were significantly more burdened with symptoms of tinnitus (Δ34.1% [95% CI, 27.6–40.5]; p < 0.0001), vertigo (Δ32.4% [95% CI, 24.8–40.3]; p < 0.0001), and subjective hearing loss (Δ26.0% [95% CI, 20.8–31.3]; p < 0.0001) compared to control patients. Findings regarding vestibular testing were not meta-analyzable because of incomplete data and lack of standard reporting.

Conclusion

SSc patients showed statistically significant, yet not clinically significant, worse hearing than controls. These differences, along with increased reports of subjective audiological and vestibular symptoms in patients with SSc, emphasize interdisciplinary collaboration and assessment of SSc for audiovestibular pathologies in the appropriate clinical context.
Uterine mesenchymal tumours harboring the KAT6B/A::KANSL1 gene fusion represent a distinct type of uterine sarcoma based on DNA methylation profiles
Authors: Kommoss Felix K. F. , Charbel Alphonse , Kolin David L. , Howitt Brooke E. , Köbel Martin , Lee Jen-Chieh , McCluggage W Glenn , Agaimy Abbas , Dickson Brendan C. , von Deimling Andreas , Lee Cheng-Han
Published: October 2024

Uterine mesenchymal tumours harboring KAT6B/A::KANSL1 gene fusions typically exhibit histological and immunophenotypic overlap with endometrial stromal and smooth muscle tumours. To date it remains uncertain whether such neoplasms should be regarded as variants of smooth muscle or endometrial stromal neoplasm, or if they constitute a distinct tumour type. In this study we investigated DNA methylation patterns and copy number variations (CNVs) in a series of uterine tumours harboring KAT6B/A::KANSL1 gene fusions in comparison to other mesenchymal neoplasms of the gynecological tract. Unsupervised hierarchical clustering and t-SNE analysis of DNA methylation data (Illumina EPIC array) identified a distinct cluster for 8/13 KAT6B/A::KANSL1 tumours (herein referred to as core cluster). The other 5 tumours (herein referred to as outliers) did not assign to the core cluster but clustered near various other tumour types. CNV analysis did not identify significant alterations in the core cluster. In contrast, various alterations, including deletions at the CDKN2A/B and NF1 loci were identified in the outlier group. Analysis of the DNA methylation clusters in relation to histological features revealed that while tumours in the core KAT6B/A::KANSL1 cluster were histologically bland, outlier tumours frequently exhibited “high-grade” histologic features in the form of significant nuclear atypia, increased mitotic activity and necrosis. Three of the five patients with outlier tumours died from their disease while clinical follow-up in the remaining two patients was limited (less than 12 months). In comparison, none of the 7 out of 8 patients with tumors in the core KAT6B/A::KANSL1 sarcoma cluster, where follow-up was available, died from disease. Furthermore, only 1 out of 7 patients recurred (mean follow-up of 30 months). In conclusion, KAT6B/A::KANSL1 uterine sarcoma is a molecularly unique type of uterine tumour that should be recognized as a distinct entity. These tumors typically exhibit low-grade histologic features but are occasionally morphologically high-grade; the latter have a DNA methylation profile different from the typical low-grade neoplasms and may be associated with aggressive behaviour.
Diagnostic utility of ESR1 mutation detection in liquid biopsy of metastatic breast cancer patients
Authors: Sandbothe Maria , Hasemeier Britta , Schipper Elisa , Schaumann Nora , Kreipe Hans , Lehmann Ulrich , Bartels Stephan
Published: October 2024

Molecular analysis of circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) extracted from peripheral blood plasma samples of metastatic breast cancer (BC) patients is of rising interest to find optimal therapeutic strategies. Detection of emerging resistance mutations against endocrine therapy is possible with this approach. Here we present the applicability of a laboratory-developed NGS assay in molecular pathology routine diagnostic, covering four genes with therapeutic (ESR1, PIK3CA, ERBB2) and prognostic (TP53) consequences in metastatic BC. We analyzed 162 liquid biopsy samples and 25 corresponding metastases from metastatic BC patients. In the liquid biopsies, we detected ESR1 mutations in 42 cases (25.9%) and ERBB2 mutations in six cases (3.7%), arguing for a change in therapy to fulvestrant, elacestrant, or neratinib. Furthermore, 17 cases had detectable TP53 mutations, associated with resistance against endocrine therapy. We conclude that liquid biopsy testing is a noninvasive, sensitive, and helpful method to optimize therapeutic decisions in metastatic BC.
Risk of cellular or antibody-mediated rejection in pediatric kidney transplant recipients with BK polyomavirus replication—an international CERTAIN registry study
Authors: Fichtner Alexander , Schmidt Jeremy , Süsal Caner , Carraro Andrea , Oh Jun , Zirngibl Matthias , König Sabine , Guzzo Isabella , Weber Lutz T. , Awan Atif , Krupka Kai , Schnitzler Paul , Hirsch Hans H. , Tönshoff Burkhard , Höcker Britta
Published: October 2024

Background

In kidney transplant recipients (KTR), BK polyomavirus-associated nephropathy (BKPyVAN) is a major cause of graft loss. To facilitate the clearance of BKPyV-DNAemia, reduction of immunosuppression is currently the treatment of choice but may increase the risk of graft rejection.

Methods

This international CERTAIN study was designed to determine the risk of alloimmune response and graft dysfunction associated with immunosuppression reduction for BKPyV treatment in 195 pediatric KTR.

Results

BKPyV-DNAemia was associated with a more than twofold increased risk of late T cell-mediated rejection (TCMR) (HR 2.22, p = 0.024), of de novo donor-specific HLA antibodies (dnDSA) and/or antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR) (HR 2.64, p = 0.002), and of graft function deterioration (HR 2.73, p = 0.001). Additional independent risk factors for dnDSA/ABMR development were a higher HLA mismatch (HR 2.72, p = 0.006) and re-transplantation (HR 6.40, p = 0.000). Other independent predictors of graft function deterioration were TCMR (HR 3.98, p = 0.003), higher donor age (HR 1.03, p = 0.020), and re-transplantation (HR 3.56, p = 0.013).

Conclusions

These data indicate that reduction of immunosuppression for BKPyV-DNAemia management is associated with increased alloimmune response in pediatric KTR. Therefore, regular dnDSA screening and close monitoring of graft function in case of BKPyV-DNAemia followed by subsequent reduction of immunosuppressive therapy are recommended.

Graphical sbstract
Bioactive surface modifications on dental implants: a systematic review and meta-analysis of osseointegration and longevity
Authors: Shayeb Maher AL , Elfadil Sittana , Abutayyem Huda , Shqaidef Abedalrahman , Marrapodi Maria Maddalena , Cicciù Marco , Minervini Giuseppe
Published: October 2024

Background

Bioactive surface modifications have been proposed to enhance osseointegration and longevity of dental implants. This study aimed to systematically review and perform a meta-analysis on the effectiveness of various bioactive coatings in promoting bone integration and improving implant longevity.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted, including studies that investigated bioactive surface modifications on titanium dental implants. Outcomes of interest were bone-to-implant contact (BIC) and implant longevity over a 30-day period. Data were extracted and analyzed using RevMan 5 (version 5.4.1), with forest plots generated to represent the mean difference (MD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) under a random effects model.

Results

The meta-analysis showed a significant improvement in BIC for surface-modified implants, with an overall MD of 7.29 (95% CI [2.94, 11.65]). Heterogeneity analysis indicated moderate heterogeneity (Tau² = 18.57, Chi² = 16.08, df = 8, P = 0.04, I² = 50%). The test for overall effect yielded Z = 3.28 (P = 0.001). For implant longevity, the overall MD was 7.52 (95% CI [3.18, 11.85]), with moderate heterogeneity (Tau² = 17.28, Chi² = 14.95, df = 8, P = 0.06, I² = 47%). The test for overall effect yielded Z = 3.40 (P = 0.0007).

Conclusion

Bioactive surface changes significantly improved osseointegration and lifespan of dental implants. Collagen-based coatings consistently encouraged early bone integration, while BMP-2 combinations were effective for osseointegration. Optimizing bioactive agent doses and combinations was critical for achieving desired outcomes.
Development and validation of the RQLQ: a Raynaud’s disease–specific measure of health-related quality of life
Authors: Fábián Balázs , Csiki Zoltán , Bugán Antal
Published: October 2024

Introduction/objectives

The aim of this study was to develop and validate the Raynaud Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (RQLQ) for assessing health-related quality (HRQOL) of life in patients with Raynaud’s disease (RD).

Method

The questionnaire was developed and validated in three stages. Initially, semi-structured interviews with 28 RD patients identified domains of everyday life affected by RD, leading to the creation of the initial RQLQ. In the first quantitative stage, 101 patients completed the RQLQ, and exploratory factor analysis assessed dimensionality and factor structure. After removing poorly performing items, the final RQLQ was tested with 102 patients. This stage also evaluated convergent, divergent, and discriminant validity, as well as internal reliability.

Results

From the interviews, 135 items were generated, with factor analysis refining the measure to 29 items across five subscales, showing good internal consistency. The RQLQ demonstrated significant correlations with self-rated quality of life and physical and mental health outcomes, confirming convergent and divergent validity. It also showed discriminant validity for different levels of disease activity.

Conclusions

The RQLQ is the first specific HRQOL measure for RD patients, proving to be a psychometrically sound, reliable, and valid tool for clinical research and practice.

Key Points• The Raynaud Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (RQLQ) is an important scale that evaluates the quality of life of patients with Raynaud’s disease.• The questionnaire showed good validity and reliability a capturing disease-specific quality of life.• This tool may aid in clinical research and practice.
Photobiomodulation effects on neuronal transdifferentiation of immortalized adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Abrahamse Heidi , Crous Anine
Published: October 2024

Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs) possess the ability to transform into various cell types, including neurons. It has been proposed that the optimization of this transformation can be achieved by using photobiomodulation (PBM). The objective of this laboratory-based investigation was to induce the transformation of immortalized ADMSCs (iADMSCs) into neurons with chemical triggers and then evaluate the supportive effects of PBM at two different wavelengths, 525 nm and 825 nm, each administered at a dose of 5 J/cm2, as well as the combined application of these wavelengths. The results revealed that the treated cells retained their stem cell characteristics, although the cells exposed to the green laser exhibited a reduction in the CD44 marker. Furthermore, early, and late neuronal markers were identified using flow cytometry analysis. The biochemical analysis included the assessment of cell morphology, viability, cell proliferation, potential cytotoxicity, and the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The findings of this study indicate that PBM does not harm the differentiation process and may even enhance it, but it necessitates a longer incubation period in the induction medium. These research findings contribute to the validation of stem cell technology for potential applications in in vivo, pre-clinical, and clinical research environments.
Development and application of explainable artificial intelligence using machine learning classification for long-term facial nerve function after vestibular schwannoma surgery
Authors: Przepiorka Lukasz , Kujawski Sławomir , Wójtowicz Katarzyna , Maj Edyta , Marchel Andrzej , Kunert Przemysław
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Vestibular schwannomas (VSs) represent the most common cerebellopontine angle tumors, posing a challenge in preserving facial nerve (FN) function during surgery. We employed the Extreme Gradient Boosting machine learning classifier to predict long-term FN outcomes (classified as House-Brackmann grades 1–2 for good outcomes and 3–6 for bad outcomes) after VS surgery.

Methods

In a retrospective analysis of 256 patients, comprehensive pre-, intra-, and post-operative factors were examined. We applied the machine learning (ML) classifier Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) for the following binary classification: long-term good and bad FN outcome after VS surgery To enhance the interpretability of our model, we utilized an explainable artificial intelligence approach.

Results

Short-term FN function (tau = 0.6) correlated with long-term FN function. The model exhibited an average accuracy of 0.83, a ROC AUC score of 0.91, and Matthew’s correlation coefficient score of 0.62. The most influential feature, identified through SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP), was short-term FN function. Conversely, large tumor volume and absence of preoperative auditory brainstem responses were associated with unfavorable outcomes.

Conclusions

We introduce an effective ML model for classifying long-term FN outcomes following VS surgery. Short-term FN function was identified as the key predictor of long-term function. This model’s excellent ability to differentiate bad and good outcomes makes it useful for evaluating patients and providing recommendations regarding FN dysfunction management.
DNA methylation drives hematopoietic stem cell aging phenotypes after proliferative stress
Authors: Yanai Hagai , McNeely Taylor , Ayyar Saipriya , Leone Michael , Zong Le , Park Bongsoo , Beerman Isabel
Published: October 2024

Aging of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) is implicated in various aging phenotypes, including immune dysfunction, anemia, and malignancies. The role of HSC proliferation in driving these aging phenotypes, particularly under stress conditions, remains unclear. Therefore, we induced forced replications of HSCs in vivo by a cyclical treatment with low-dose fluorouracil (5FU) and examined the impact on HSC aging. Our findings show that proliferative stress induces several aging phenotypes, including altered leukocyte counts, decreased lymphoid progenitors, accumulation of HSCs with high expression of Slamf1, and reduced reconstitution potential, without affecting stem cell self-renewal capacity. The divisional history of HSCs was imprinted in the DNA methylome, consistent with functional decline. Specifically, DNA methylation changes included global hypermethylation in non-coding regions and similar frequencies of hypo- and hyper-methylation at promoter regions, particularly affecting genes targeted by the PRC2 complex. Importantly, initial forced replication promoted DNA damage repair accumulated with age, but continuous proliferative stress led to the accumulation of double-strand breaks, independent of functional decline. Overall, our results suggest that HSC proliferation can drive some aging phenotypes primarily through epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation changes.
Evaluation of a combined chemical, electrochemical, and mechanochemical approach for metal extraction from contaminated dredged sediments: preliminary studies
Authors: Llorente Irene , Ruiz-Fernandez Jorge , Nevshupa Roman , Castellote Marta
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the efficacy of a combination of chemical, electrical, and mechanical methods for extracting specific metal contaminants from marine dredged sediment.

Materials and methods

Samples of muddy contaminated sediment from a Spanish harbor were characterized, including the mode of occurrence of heavy metals, using sequential chemical extraction. Desorption tests were conducted using the sediment in its fresh state, in a custom-built cell/reactor filled with an electrolyte—either a solution of 0.25 M citric or acetic acid, or deionized water. Electrical current, ultrasonic energy, and circulating flow were applied in various combinations, and the efficacy of such combinations on the metal desorption was evaluated. After the experiments, the solutions were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). X-ray diffraction (XRD) and thermogravimetric analysis/differential thermal analysis (TG/DTA) were performed on the sediment.

Results

The sequencial extraction revealed that most metals (excluding Hg, Pb and Zn) were primarily bound to the residual fraction (fraction V), with As and Cu exhibiting the highest concentrations. Cadmium and mercury were preferentially extracted in fraction IV, associated with organic matter. Pb and Zn exhibited their highest percentages in fraction III, bound to Fe–Mn oxides. Regarding desorption, the results indicated that increasing treatment time enhanced metal desorption, with the most significant effect observed during the initial stages. The electrolyte used emerged as the most influential factor. Citric acid proved more effective for As, Cr, and Ni, while acetic acid favored Cu, Pb, and Zn extraction. As, Pb, and Zn exhibited preferential desorption in the presence of ultrasounds, while Cr, Ni, Pb, and Zn desorbed more readily under electrical current. Application of electrolyte circulation had a positive effect on the extraction of all metals.

Conclusions

Changes in the electrolyte's chemical composition are the most significant factor influencing metal desorption. In addition to the electrolyte used, the application of some form of energy had a slight positive effect on metal desorption. However, at this stage it seemed that the synergistic effect of both electric field and ultrasounds appears to be only relevant for Cu. Electrolyte circulation had a positive impact on metal desorption for all metals tested. The concentration of recalcitrant and refractory organic matter decreased after all the tests, indicating its degradation into more labile matter.
Sex influences whether hippocampal volumes mediate the relationship between depression and cognition in older adults without dementia: A UK Biobank study
Authors: Ortega Nancy E. , Aslanyan Vahan , Pa Judy
Published: October 2024

Depression is a modifiable risk factor for dementia; however, it remains unclear whether there are sex differences in how depression affects dementia risk. To better understand sex-specific differences in how depression confers risk of dementia, the link between depression, hippocampal volumes, and cognition was evaluated in a sample of older adults without dementia from the UK Biobank cohort. A total of 18,220 participants (women n = 9,474; men n = 8,746) were selected based on completion of the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), structural MRI, and cognitive assessments. Causal mediation analyses were used to evaluate if the relationship between depression and cognition is mediated by the hippocampus differently by sex. Women reported greater depression severity than men. Hippocampal volumes were found to mediate the relationship between depression severity and fluid intelligence only in women. Upon categorization of the depression symptoms as either cognitive/affective or somatic, the mediation effect of the hippocampus was seen for both cognitive/affective and somatic symptom severity in women for fluid intelligence. These results offer insight into the sex-specific pathways underlying the relationship between depression, hippocampal volumes, and cognition in older adults without dementia with a focus on the type of depression symptoms. This knowledge could aid in the development of sex-focused dementia prevention strategies and treatments.
Hochauflösende Bildgebung von komplexen Infektionsprozessen
Authors: Franzkoch Rico , Breitsprecher Leonhard , Kurre Rainer , Psathaki Olympia E. , Hensel Michael
Published: October 2024

State-of-the-art light and electron microscopy and correlative approaches have shed light on host-pathogen interactions of various infection diseases. Today, a wide range of methods are available, including non-invasive fluorescence-based live-cell imaging approaches, as well as high-resolution 3D (cryo-)transmission and scanning electron microscopy. Here, we present strategies to investigate host-pathogen interactions with highest spatiotemporal resolution using Salmonella enterica as an example.
Reversible Fluoreszenzmarkierung in lebenden Zellen
Authors: Holtmannspötter Michael , Kurre Rainer , Piehler Jacob
Published: October 2024

Fluorescence microscopy has revolutionized our understanding of biological processes, largely spurred by the discovery of genetically encoded fluorescent tags. However, modern high and super-resolution microscopy techniques are limited by the finite photon budget of available fluorophores. We have devised reversible enzymatic labeling to enable continuous exchange of bleached fluorophores, which opens particularly exciting possibilities for single molecule and correlated fluorescence microscopy in live cells.
The role of lipid biosynthesis machinery in cellular membrane adaptation
Authors: Exterkate Marten
Published: October 2024

Cells need to adapt their membranes to environmental changes. In this process the specific lipid composition of the membrane is of importance. The lipid biosynthesis machinery has direct influence on the membrane lipid content by 1) producing newly synthesized lipids, 2) remodeling already existing lipids, such as various cardiolipins. The interactions between components of the lipid biosynthesis machinery are crucial to obtain a specific lipid composition, but the interplay is largely unknown.
Der Digitalisierungsdiskurs in der Sozialen Arbeit
Authors: Eckl Markus , Ghanem Christian
Published: October 2024

Themen der Digitalisierung nehmen in der Praxis und Wissenschaft der Sozialen Arbeit einen immer wichtigeren Stellenwert ein. Auch wird immer wieder über die Spezifika des wissenschaftlichen Digitalisierungsdiskurses gesprochen und publiziert, wobei bisher eine empirische Analyse aussteht. Um die bisherigen Erkenntnisse und Annahmen empirisch zu fundieren, wird in der vorliegenden Arbeit eine quantitative Textanalyse angewendet, um 21.242 Rezensionen aus der Sozialen Arbeit automatisiert zu analysieren. Dabei zeigen sich zwei unterschiedliche Diskursstränge. Die Entwicklung der Thematisierung von Medienpädagogik zeigt einen tendenziellen Rückgang seit dem Jahr 2000. Themen der Digitalisierung hingegen nehmen stetig zu, wobei ein exponentieller Zuwachs seit 2016 zu beobachten ist. In einem zweiten Schritt werden die, dadurch identifizierten, einschlägigen Rezensionen näher analysiert, wodurch unterschiedliche Spezialdiskurse auf der Mikro- (Digitalität und Hilfe), Meso- (Digitalität und Organisation) und Makroebene (Digitalität und Gesellschaft) sichtbar werden. Anhand der Analyse wird eine grundlegende Einführung in die quantitative Textanalyse (Latent Dirichlet Allocation) gegeben sowie deren Potenzial und Grenzen für die Soziale Arbeit diskutiert.
Marginal Mandibulectomy in Oral Cavity Cancers — Classification and Indications
Authors: Nair Sudhir , Singhavi Hitesh R. , Mestry Vidula , Shetty Rathan , Joshi Poonam , Chaturvedi Pankaj
Published: October 2024

Squamous cell carcinoma of the lip and oral cavity (OSCC) is a significant global health issue, particularly in low-income countries, with an estimated 390,000 cases detected annually. Although surgery remains the primary treatment option, complex resections are frequently required to attain clear margins. Traditionally, a part of the jaw bone close to the tumour is resected (segmental mandibulectomy) during the surgery. However, marginal mandibulectomy (MM), involving the resection of the mandibular rim while preserving its continuity, offers a less debilitating alternative to segmental mandibulectomy (SM) in selected cases. This review examines marginal mandibulectomy’s oncological safety and efficacy and its current role in managing oral cavity cancers, as indicated by the most recent literature. MM is an effective treatment for tumours, which abut the mandible without bone invasion and provides comparable oncological outcomes to SM, with fewer functional and cosmetic deficits. The authors also propose a classification based on the plane of resection and location within the mandible. We believe this classification will be helpful in reporting the MM series done in various centres in a uniform fashion. However, there is a need for precise surgical planning before doing an MM for obtaining the optimal results.
Ravens and Strawberries: Remarks on Hempel’s and Ramsey’s Accounts of laws and scientific explanation
Authors: Sisti Caterina
Published: October 2024

Hempel never met Ramsey, but he knew his work. In his 1958 The Theoretician’s Dilemma: a study in the logic of theory construction, Hempel introduces the term Ramsey sentence, referring to Ramsey’s attempt in Theories to get rid of theoretical terms in formal accounts of scientific theories. In this paper, I draw the attention to another connection between Ramsey’s and Hempel’s works. Hempel’s Deductive-Nomological (DN) account of scientific explanation resembles very closely Ramsey’s account of a certain type of conditional sentences. In the first part of the paper, by introducing a fictional story, I highlight the similarities and differences between the two. In the last part of the paper, I claim that the most relevant difference between Ramsey and Hempel can be used to offer original solutions to Hempel’s Raven Paradox. Two possibilities are presented, arguing that the second, which requires a reconsideration of the formalisation of laws, is the most promising.
Ethnic-Specific Threshold Analysis and BMI and Waist Circumference Cutoffs for Cardiovascular Disease and Subjective Wellbeing: Results using Data from the UK Biobank
Authors: Patel Mubarak , Buchya Mohammed Aadil , Uthman Olalekan
Published: October 2024

Objectives

We aimed to identify ethnicity-specific BMI and waist circumference cutoffs for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and to define optimal thresholds for CVD risk and subjective wellbeing (SWB) through predictive modelling, to inform precise public health initiatives.

Methods

We used data from 296,767 UK Biobank participants and adjusted logistic and linear regression models for CVD and SWB, respectively, complemented by receiver operating characteristic analysis, to explore optimal risk thresholds of CVD in six different ethnic groups and to calculate ethnicity-specific cutoffs of BMI and waist circumference (WC) to further elucidate the relationships between demographic factors and cardiovascular risk among diverse populations.

Results

The logistic regression model of CVD revealed moderate discriminative ability (AUROC ~ 64–65%) across ethnicities for CVD status, with sensitivity and specificity values indicating the model’s predictive accuracy. For SWB, the model demonstrated moderate performance with an AUROC of 63%, supported by significant variables that included age, BMI, WC, physical activity, and alcohol intake. Adjusted-incidence rates of CVD revealed the evidence ethnic-specific CVD risk profiles with Whites, South Asians and Blacks demonstrating higher predicted CVD events compared to East Asians, mixed and other ethnic groups.

Conclusion

Alterations of ethnicity-specific BMI and waist circumference are required to ensure ethnic minorities are provided with proper mitigation of cardiovascular risk, addressing the disparities observed in CVD prevalence and outcomes across diverse populations. This tailored approach to risk assessment can facilitate early detection, intervention and management of CVD, ultimately improving health outcomes and promoting health equity. The moderate accuracy of predictive models underscores the need for further research to identify additional variables that may enhance predictive accuracy and refine risk assessment strategies.
Overcoming the curse of dimensionality in the numerical approximation of high-dimensional semilinear elliptic partial differential equations
Authors: Beck Christian , Gonon Lukas , Jentzen Arnulf
Published: October 2024

Recently, so-called full-history recursive multilevel Picard (MLP) approximation schemes have been introduced and shown to overcome the curse of dimensionality in the numerical approximation of semilinear parabolic partial differential equations (PDEs) with Lipschitz nonlinearities. The key contribution of this article is to introduce and analyze a new variant of MLP approximation schemes for certain semilinear elliptic PDEs with Lipschitz nonlinearities and to prove that the proposed approximation schemes overcome the curse of dimensionality in the numerical approximation of such semilinear elliptic PDEs.