bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐grade medullary thyroid carcinoma with papillary‐like nuclear features: A report of five cases
Authors: Yamao Naoki , Hirokawa Mitsuyoshi , Suzuki Ayana , Higuchi Miyoko , Ishisaka Tomo , Miyauchi Akira , Akamizu Takashi
Published: October 2023

Background

Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) with papillary‐like nuclear features has not been previously described. Here, we aimed to describe the unique features of MTC and examine their prognostic value as markers of high‐grade MTC.

Methods

Of the 110 MTC patients reviewed, a total of five (4.5%) who exhibited MTC with papillary‐like nuclear features based on observations from cytological preparations were included in this study. Papillary‐like nuclear features were defined as exhibiting all of the following characteristics: ground‐glass chromatin pattern, grooves, indented membrane, and lobulation.

Results

The patients included four females and one male, with a median age of 70 years. Calcitonin‐doubling times for patients 1 and 3 were 0.8 and 0.34 years, respectively. Cytologically, patients 4 and 5 displayed a Ki‐67 labeling index of 5.1% and necrotic cells, respectively. All three histologically evaluated patients exhibited papillary‐like nuclear features and a Ki‐67 labeling index of >5.0%. Patients 1 and 3 had mitotic counts of ≥5 per 2 mm2. The MTC in all five patients was classified as high‐grade. Moreover, patient 1 harbored a RET mutation (M918T), while RET (R912W), BRAF (V600E), and CTNNB1 (S33F, T41I) mutations were present in patient 2.

Conclusion

Our work suggests that papillary‐like nuclear features in MTC may be associated with high‐grade tumors. These findings may be cytologically indicative of high‐grade tumors other than necrosis or mitosis.
Loss of function of male‐specific lethal 3 (Msl3) does not affect spermatogenesis in rodents
Authors: Mitchell T. A. , Lin J. M. , Hicks S. M. , James J. R. , Rangan P. , Forni P. E.
Published: October 2023

Background

Male‐specific lethal 3 (Msl3) is a member of the chromatin‐associated male‐specific lethal MSL complex, which is responsible for the transcriptional upregulation of genes on the X chromosome in males of Drosophila. Although the dosage complex operates differently in mammals, the Msl3 gene is conserved from flies to humans. Msl3 is required for meiotic entry during Drosophila oogenesis. Recent reports indicate that also in primates, Msl3 is expressed in undifferentiated germline cells before meiotic entry. However, if Msl3 plays a role in the meiotic entry of mammals has yet to be explored.

Results

To understand, if Msl3a plays a role in the meiotic entry of mammals, we used mouse spermatogenesis as a study model. Analyses of single‐cell RNA‐seq data revealed that, in mice, Msl3 is mostly expressed in meiotic cells. To test the role of Msl3 in meiosis, we used a male germline‐specific Stra8‐iCre driver and a newly generated Msl3flox conditional knock‐out mouse line. Msl3 conditional loss‐of‐function in spermatogonia did not cause spermatogenesis defects or changes in the expression of genes related to meiosis.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that, in mice, Msl3 exhibits delayed expression compared to Drosophila and primates, and loss‐of‐function mutations disrupting the chromodomain of Msl3 alone do not impede meiotic entry in rodents.
Integration and segregation manifolds in the brain ensure cognitive flexibility during tasks and rest
Authors: Capouskova Katerina , Zamora‐López Gorka , Kringelbach Morten L. , Deco Gustavo
Published: October 2023

Adapting to a constantly changing environment requires the human brain to flexibly switch among many demanding cognitive tasks, processing both specialized and integrated information associated with the activity in functional networks over time. In this study, we investigated the nature of the temporal alternation between segregated and integrated states in the brain during rest and six cognitive tasks using functional MRI. We employed a deep autoencoder to explore the 2D latent space associated with the segregated and integrated states. Our results show that the integrated state occupies less space in the latent space manifold compared to the segregated states. Moreover, the integrated state is characterized by lower entropy of occupancy than the segregated state, suggesting that integration plays a consolidating role, while segregation may serve as cognitive expertness. Comparing rest and the tasks, we found that rest exhibits higher entropy of occupancy, indicating a more random wandering of the mind compared to the expected focus during task performance. Our study demonstrates that both transient, short‐lived integrated and segregated states are present during rest and task performance, flexibly switching between them, with integration serving as information compression and segregation related to information specialization.
Development and evaluation of a polygenic risk score for lung cancer in never‐smoking women: A large‐scale prospective Chinese cohort study
Authors: Wei Xiaoxia , Sun Dianjianyi , Gao Jiaxin , Zhang Jing , Zhu Meng , Yu Canqing , Ma Zhimin , Fu Yating , Ji Chen , Pei Pei , Yang Ling , Millwood Iona Y. , Walters Robin G. , Chen Yiping , Du Huaidong , Jin Guangfu , Chen Zhengming , Hu Zhibin , Li Liming , Shen Hongbing , Lv Jun , Ma Hongxia
Published: October 2023

The proportion of lung cancer in never smokers is rising, especially among Asian women, but there is no effective early detection tool. Here, we developed a polygenic risk score (PRS), which may help to identify the population with higher risk of lung cancer in never‐smoking women. We first performed a large GWAS meta‐analysis (8595 cases and 8275 controls) to systematically identify the susceptibility loci for lung cancer in never‐smoking Asian women and then generated a PRS using GWAS datasets. Furthermore, we evaluated the utility and effectiveness of PRS in an independent Chinese prospective cohort comprising 55 266 individuals. The GWAS meta‐analysis identified eight known loci and a novel locus (5q11.2) at the genome‐wide statistical significance level of P < 5 × 10−8. Based on the summary statistics of GWAS, we derived a polygenic risk score including 21 variants (PRS‐21) for lung cancer in never‐smoking women. Furthermore, PRS‐21 had a hazard ratio (HR) per SD of 1.29 (95% CI = 1.18‐1.41) in the prospective cohort. Compared with participants who had a low genetic risk, those with an intermediate (HR = 1.32, 95% CI: 1.00‐1.72) and high (HR = 2.09, 95% CI: 1.56‐2.80) genetic risk had a significantly higher risk of incident lung cancer. The addition of PRS‐21 to the conventional risk model yielded a modest significant improvement in AUC (0.697 to 0.711) and net reclassification improvement (24.2%). The GWAS‐derived PRS‐21 significantly improves the risk stratification and prediction accuracy for incident lung cancer in never‐smoking Asian women, demonstrating the potential for identification of high‐risk individuals and early screening.
High resolution heat stress over a Sahelian city: Present and future impact assessment and urban green effectiveness
Authors: Souverijns Niels , De Ridder Koen , Takacs Sacha , Veldeman Nele , Michielsen Marthe , Crols Tomas , Foamouhoue André K. , Nshimirimana Godefroid , Dan Dijé Ibrahim , Tidjani Hassoumi
Published: October 2023

Cities in the Sahel are heavily impacted by heat stress. Climate change, growing population rates and urbanization will increase the magnitude and intensity of urban heat stress towards the future. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the current status of heat stress in Niamey (Niger) and future impacts by combining the results of two models operating at city‐level: UrbClim which simulates (future) climate and GeoDynamiX, providing future city spatial extents combined with the results of a measurement campaign. Additionally, a meter‐scale assessment of heat stress within the city is executed for a selection of city districts. Urban green and trees are effective mitigation tools for heat stress, which is observed in both measurements and model results, being most effective during the hottest hours of the day when they lower heat stress to less health‐impacting levels. Future simulations show a strong increase in the spatial extent and intensity of extreme temperatures within the city. This impacts city dwellers, which will consequently experience much more days with extreme heat stress levels towards the future, doubling or tripling depending on the climate scenario. Socio‐economic impacts for mid‐century are quantified, noting increases in heat‐related mortality of several percentages compared to present‐day values. Additionally, negative economic impacts of several percentages of the Gross Domestic Product are projected as heat stress will prohibit performing moderate or high‐intensity activities during the hottest hours of the day, even in the shade.
3D SERS and Raman imaging of protective microcapsules containing bio‐active terpenoids
Authors: Cardoni Francesco , Meneghetti Moreno , Litti Lucio
Published: October 2023

Terpenoids play a major role in agriculture, given their fungicidal and herbicidal actions, as well as their favorable toxicological, ecotoxicological, and environmental profiles. Despite all these advantages, terpenoids are reported to be unstable in direct sunlight and atmospheric conditions, so both commercial suppliers and scientific literature foresee their protection by encapsulation. The so‐called microcapsules (μCaps) are therefore of high relevance as drug‐delivery vectors, but very few techniques focus on their surface as well as on their morphological characterization. Indeed, these aspects are of great importance, given that their surface chemistry governs both their colloidal stability and mechanism of action. Common analysis techniques, such as chromatographic and mass‐spectrometric ones, are destructive, require sample preparation, and do not result in the complete morphological characterization of the microcapsules. Micro‐Raman spectroscopy, in conjunction with the surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) effect, offers a valuable alternative method of investigation capable of achieving a complete and non‐destructive morphological characterization of the terpenoid‐encapsulating systems, the dimensions of which fall within the micrometric range. In addition, the SERS effect can be exploited by fabricating the microcapsules with gold nanostars (AuNSs) modified with chitosan and a SERS reporter (Nile Blue A). Thanks to the high contrast provided by the SERS signals of this tag, it was possible to localize and confirm the chitosan in the morphology of the microcapsules. The results of this study shed new light on the possibility of analyzing terpenoid‐encapsulating microcapsules and possibly other kinds of encapsulates brought by using Raman spectroscopy and by exploiting the SERS effect.
Effect of statins on hearing outcome in patients with idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss
Authors: Nitta Yoshihiro , Kurioka Takaomi , Furuki Shogo , Sano Hajime , Yamashita Taku
Published: October 2023

Objective

Statins have been reported to improve vascular endothelial function and microcirculation, reduce oxidative stress, and exert anti‐inflammatory and protective effects against inner ear damage. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effect of statins on hearing prognosis in patients with idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL).

Methods

We reviewed the medical records of 149 patients diagnosed with ISSNHL. Clinical characteristics, hearing thresholds, statin medications, and hematological findings were investigated. First, patients with ISSNHL were assigned to the good and poor outcome groups, and factors influencing their prognosis were analyzed. Furthermore, patients with dyslipidemia were investigated to determine whether statins have therapeutic effects on ISSNHL.

Results

Significant differences in age (p = .011), days from the onset of ISSNHL to the initiation of treatment (p = .04), and hematological total cholesterol (TC; p = .015) between the good and poor outcome groups were observed. Furthermore, when hearing outcomes were investigated in patients with dyslipidemia, TC was significantly lower in the good outcome group (p = .03). Although no significant therapeutic effects of statins were observed in participants with dyslipidemia, patients in the statin‐treated group were significantly older and experienced more diabetic complications than those in the non‐statin‐treated group.

Conclusion

Although our study showed that dyslipidemia is a poor prognostic factor for ISSNHL, statins had no significant therapeutic effects on hearing recovery in ISSNHL patients with dyslipidemia. The patients that received statin medications were significantly older and experienced more diabetic complications, which may have affected their hearing prognosis.

Level of Evidence

Level 4.
Modules of finite Gorenstein flat dimension and approximations
Authors: Emmanouil Ioannis
Published: October 2023

We study approximations of modules of finite Gorenstein flat dimension by (projectively coresolved) Gorenstein flat modules and modules of finite flat dimension. These approximations determine the Gorenstein flat dimension and lead to descriptions of the corresponding relative homological dimensions, for such modules, in more classical terms. We also describe two hereditary Hovey triples on the category of modules of finite Gorenstein flat dimension, whose associated exact structures have homotopy categories equivalent to the stable category of projectively coresolved Gorenstein flat modules and the stable category of cotorsion Gorenstein flat modules, respectively.
Semi‐analytical solutions for the consolidation of unsaturated composite ground with floating permeable columns under equal strain condition
Authors: Tang Zhijun , Wang Lei , Zhou Annan , Sun De'an , Li Jie
Published: October 2023

This study focuses on the mathematical interpretation and consolidation behavior of unsaturated composite ground with floating permeable columns (FPC). By combining the axisymmetric consolidation model with the equal strain assumption, the consolidation problem of unsaturated composite ground with FPC is transformed into a one‐dimensional consolidation problem of an equivalent double‐layer ground. The consolidation governing equations of the reinforced zone and the underlying stratum are derived respectively. The Laplace transformation and Gauss elimination method are used to obtain solutions for the average excess pore pressure and settlement in the Laplace transform domain. The semi‐analytical solutions for the consolidation of composite ground in the time domain are obtained by implementing the Crump numerical method for the inverse Laplace transformation. A comparison with the existing literature and numerical simulation results from Finite Element Methods (FEM) confirms the correctness of the proposed semi‐analytical solutions. Based on these solutions, the consolidation behavior of an unsaturated composite ground with FPC under instantaneous loading is investigated. The results indicate that the penetration ratio of the permeable column is the most significant factor affecting the consolidation of composite ground. Furthermore, the consolidation rate and settlement of the composite ground also highly depend on the unsaturated soil in the underlying stratum.
The inherent strain method for simulation of additive manufacturing–A critical assessment based on a new variant of the method
Authors: Bellet Michel , Keumo Tematio Joël , Zhang Yancheng
Published: October 2023

To reduce computational time of thermo‐mechanical simulation of additive manufacturing processes, the inherent strain (IS) method is quite efficient, but suffers from a lack of predictivity, preventing concurrent quantitative prediction of distortion and stress. In order to investigate the predictive ability of the IS method, a new variant of the method is proposed in which the determination of the IS tensor is based on simulation results from a standard thermo‐elastic‐viscoplastic simulation applied to a few learning layers of the studied part. More precisely, the inherent strains are determined by a direct resolution performed in each finite element, with a negligible computation cost. Because of these specific features, the predictive ability of this IS method is formulated as its ability to replicate the distortion and stress predicted by the reference standard thermo‐elastic‐viscoplastic simulation. The proposed IS method provides perfect results in a validation test where full‐field inherent strains are used in each added layer: the distortion and stress predicted by the thermo‐elastic‐viscoplastic simulation are exactly replicated by the IS method. However, when applying the IS method to the simulation of an entire part, here a turbine blade mock‐up, the results are degraded with respect to the reference solution obtained by the thermo‐elastic‐viscoplastic simulation. Results are then discussed to evaluate the limitations of the proposed method, and of the IS method in general.
New insights in the mechanisms of weight‐loss maintenance: Summary from a Pennington symposium
Authors: Flanagan Emily W. , Spann Redin , Berry Sarah E. , Berthoud Hans‐Rudolf , Broyles Stephanie , Foster Gary D. , Krakoff Jonathan , Loos Ruth J. F. , Lowe Michael R. , Ostendorf Danielle M. , Powell‐Wiley Tiffany M. , Redman Leanne M. , Rosenbaum Michael , Schauer Philip R. , Seeley Randy J. , Swinburn Boyd A. , Hall Kevin , Ravussin Eric
Published: October 2023

Obesity is a chronic disease that affects more than 650 million adults worldwide. Obesity not only is a significant health concern on its own, but predisposes to cardiometabolic comorbidities, including coronary heart disease, dyslipidemia, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers. Lifestyle interventions effectively promote weight loss of 5% to 10%, and pharmacological and surgical interventions even more, with some novel approved drugs inducing up to an average of 25% weight loss. Yet, maintaining weight loss over the long‐term remains extremely challenging, and subsequent weight gain is typical. The mechanisms underlying weight regain remain to be fully elucidated. The purpose of this Pennington Biomedical Scientific Symposium was to review and highlight the complex interplay between the physiological, behavioral, and environmental systems controlling energy intake and expenditure. Each of these contributions were further discussed in the context of weight‐loss maintenance, and systems‐level viewpoints were highlighted to interpret gaps in current approaches. The invited speakers built upon the science of obesity and weight loss to collectively propose future research directions that will aid in revealing the complicated mechanisms involved in the weight‐reduced state.
Effect of interface temperature on low‐velocity impact response of injection over‐molded short/continuous fiber reinforced polypropylene composites
Authors: Paramasivam Anandakumar , Mallina Venkata Timmaraju , Ramachandran Velmurugan , Kumar Vattikuti Vinay
Published: October 2023

Injection over‐molded short/continuous fiber reinforced composites are a unique class of materials for fabricating lightweight components having complex geometries in automotive manufacturing due to their higher specific mechanical properties, lower assembly cost, and short production cycle time. The influence of interface temperature on the low‐velocity impact response of short/continuous fiber‐reinforced polypropylene was experimentally investigated by varying the melt temperature. The over‐molded specimens fabricated at an interface temperature considerably higher than the melting point of polypropylene exhibited a 12% enhanced peak load with less impact damage compared with specimens over‐molded at a lower interface temperature. Optical analysis of impacted specimens over‐molded at lower interface temperature revealed interface debonding and insert delamination. Whereas insert delamination alone was observed for the specimens fabricated at higher interface temperature. The specimens over‐molded at high interface temperature exhibited less impact energy absorption and high compression strength after impact because of their strong interfacial adhesion.

Highlights

Impact energy absorption is less if melt temperature is high in injection over‐molding.

Higher melt temperature enhances interface bonding by raising interface temperature.

Interface debonding and insert delamination are the dominant impact failure modes.

The compression strength after impact has increased with higher melt temperature.

Impact and compression strength after impact is governed by the interfacial strength.
Cover Image
Authors: Li Zhanhong , Shen Yunheng , Xin Jiayun , Xu Xike , Ding Qianqian , Chen Wei , Wang Jie , Lv Yanhui , Wei Xintong , Wei Yanping , Zhang Weidong , Zu Xianpeng , Wang Shumei
Published: October 2023

The cover image is based on the Research Article Cryptotanshinone alleviates radiation-induced lung fibrosis via modulation of gut microbiota and bile acid metabolism by Zhanhong Li et al., https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.7926.

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Comorbidity of eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis in chronic eosinophilic pneumonia
Authors: Hatsukawa Hiroatsu , Ishikawa Masaaki , Hirai Tomoyuki , Endo Kazuo , Saito Emiko , Matsumoto Hirotaka , Okazaki Kouya
Published: October 2023

We aimed to elucidate details of comorbid chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) in chronic eosinophilic pneumonia (CEP) under the collaboration between otolaryngologists and pulmonologists in a prospective study. The CEP diagnosis was performed by pulmonologists based on clinical symptoms, laboratory findings, and/or eosinophilia detected in bronchoalveolar lavage. All patients were referred to otolaryngologists before undergoing oral corticosteroid treatment for CEP. Ten CEP cases visited to otolaryngologists. All cases showed bilateral sinonasal inflammation in computed tomography (CT), indicating comorbid CRS. Nasal polyps (NPs) were observed in 50% of patients on endoscopy. Eighty percent of patients were diagnosed with eosinophilic CRS. In blood eosinophil levels and the mucosal eosinophil count, there were no significant differences between CRS without and with NPs. In Lund–Mackay CT total scores, among‐individual variability was observed in CRS with NPs. The collaboration revealed blood/sinonasal eosinophilia and the variability in Lund–Mackay CT total scores as remarkable findings about the comorbid CRS.
Benign endobronchial lipoma causing repeated pneumonia
Authors: Kawasaki Yasutaka , Yamamoto Kohei , Suda Takuya , Saito Daisuke , Matsumoto Isao
Published: October 2023

Key message

Endobronchial lipomas are rare; nonetheless, physicians should consider them as a differential diagnosis in patients with repeated pneumonia. Computed tomography and bronchoscopy are recommended for diagnosis. In this case, the patient's cough was ameliorated after undergoing a right basal segmentectomy.
Utility of remotely operated underwater vehicle in flood inundation mapping for dam failure: A case study of Lake Tuscaloosa Dam
Authors: Song Junho , Kam Jonghun , Jones Steven
Published: October 2023

A remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV) is a tethered underwater mobile device that can conduct a bathymetric survey cost‐efficiently. Assessment of the utility of ROV‐based bathymetric surveys in flood inundation mapping remains limited. This study aims to examine the utility of ROV‐based bathymetric surveys in high‐resolution flood inundation mapping for a hypothetical case study of the Lake Tuscaloosa Dam breach in the state of Alabama, USA. This study conducted the sensitivity test of flood inundation mapping to the river channel depth (ROV‐based vs. digital elevation model [DEM]‐based) and initial flow condition (e.g., wet vs. dry), via six different simulations of the parallelized diffusion hydrodynamic model (pDHM). This study found that the ROV‐based pDHM runs had higher maximum water depths over the flood‐inundated areas, ranging from +73% to +166% of the simulated depths of the DEM‐based pDHM runs. However, the impact of initial streamflow condition on the maximum depths was limited. This study also found that the pDHM runs with a dry initial flow condition delayed the time to reach the maximum depth after the dam breach by 2 h relative to the pDHM runs with a wet initial streamflow condition. This study suggests that ROV‐based bathymetry surveys improve flood inundation mapping by emphasizing the influence of river channel depth, initial streamflow conditions, and bathymetry, thereby bolstering community resilience to a potential human‐made hazard such as dam failure.
Magnetic Lateral Ladder for Unidirectional Transport of Microrobots: Design Principles and Potential Applications of Cells‐on‐Chip
Authors: Ali Abbas , Kim Hyeonseol , Torati Sri Ramulu , Kang Yumin , Reddy Venu , Kim Keonmok , Yoon Jonghwan , Lim Byeonghwa , Kim CheolGi
Published: October 2023

Functionalized microrobots, which are directionally manipulated in a controlled and precise manner for specific tasks, face challenges. However, magnetic field‐based controls constrain all microrobots to move in a coordinated manner, limiting their functions and independent behaviors. This article presents a design principle for achieving unidirectional microrobot transport using an asymmetric magnetic texture in the shape of a lateral ladder, which the authors call the “railway track.” An asymmetric magnetic energy distribution along the axis allows for the continuous movement of microrobots in a fixed direction regardless of the direction of the magnetic field rotation. The authors demonstrated precise control and simple utilization of this method. Specifically, by placing magnetic textures with different directionalities, an integrated cell/particle collector can collect microrobots distributed in a large area and move them along a complex trajectory to a predetermined location.  The authors can leverage the versatile capabilities offered by this texture concept, including hierarchical isolation, switchable collection, programmable pairing, selective drug‐response test, and local fluid mixing for target objects. The results demonstrate the importance of microrobot directionality in achieving complex individual control. This novel concept represents significant advancement over conventional magnetic field‐based control technology and paves the way for further research in biofunctionalized microrobotics.
How fences communicate interspecies codes of conduct in the landscape: toward bidirectional communication?
Authors: von Essen Erica , Drenthen Martin , Bhardwaj Manisha
Published: October 2023

The fence provides two functions in wildlife management. First, it physically blocks, deters or impedes wild animals from access to protected areas or resources. Second, the fence signals impassability, danger, pain or irritation to animals through both of these pathways: the actual blockade and the signal of no access both communicates to wild animals that they should stay away, producing area effects which constrain animal mobility. The mere presence of a fence, while imperfect and potentially passable, can come to establish an area effect of avoidance. In this regard, fences are part of an interspecies communication on the basis of mutually understood signals in the landscape. In this paper, we consider how fences, both physical, such as walls, and virtual, such as ‘biofences' that use sensory deterrents, signal danger or no access to wildlife, and with what practical and conceptual limitations. Through a framework of ecosemiotics, the communication of signals between wildlife and humans, we discuss the communicative role fences play in human–wildlife interactions. First, we outline the way in which ecosemiotics may be leveraged to manage human–wildlife conflicts by utilizing fences as signals. Then we explain miscommunication, and how this impacts the success of fences. Finally, we discuss the normative problems of attempting to signal to wildlife how to behave and where to be, and raise the need for bidirectional communication across species, such that wild animals are also seen as participants in negotiating space and access around humans.
Epicardial adipose tissue as a prognostic marker in acute pulmonary embolism
Authors: Aghayev Anar , Hinnerichs Mattes , Wienke Andreas , Meyer Hans-Jonas , Surov Alexey
Published: October 2023

Background

Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) has been established as a quantitative imaging biomarker associated with disease severity in coronary heart disease. Our aim was to use this prognostic marker derived from computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) for the prediction of mortality and prognosis in patients with acute pulmonary embolism.

Methods

The clinical database was retrospectively screened for patients with acute pulmonary embolism between 2015 and 2021. Overall, 513 patients (216 female, 42.1%) were included in the analysis. The study end-point was 30-day mortality. Epicardial adipose tissue was measured on the diagnostic CTPA in a semiquantitative manner. The volume and density of EAT were measured for every patient.

Results

Overall, 60 patients (10.4%) died within the 30-day observation period. The mean EAT volume was 128.3 ± 65.0 cm3 in survivors and 154.6 ± 84.5 cm3 in nonsurvivors (p = 0.02). The density of EAT was −79.4 ± 8.3 HU in survivors and −76.0 ± 8.4 HU in nonsurvivors (p = 0.86), and EAT density was associated with 30-day mortality (odds ratio [OR] = 1.07; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.03; 1.1, p < 0.001) but did not remain statistically significant in multivariable analysis. No association was identified between EAT volume and 30-day mortality (OR = 1.0; 95% CI: 1.0; 1.0, p = 0.48).

Conclusion

There might be an association between EAT density and mortality in patients with acute pulmonary embolism. Further studies are needed to elucidate the prognostic relevance of EAT parameters in patients with acute pulmonary embolism.
Disability benefits protect against lost income for South Africans living with Schizophrenia
Authors: Wootton Olivia , King Aisha , Moy Kayley , Stein Dan J. , Susser Ezra S.
Published: October 2023

Little is known about the economic impact of disability grants for people living with schizophrenia in low- and middle- income countries. In this brief report, we show that receipt of disability benefits is significantly associated (β = 0.105, p < 0.0001) with increased household and personal wealth in large sample of people living with schizophrenia in South Africa (n = 1154). This study provides further support for the use of disability grants as a mechanism to protect people living with schizophrenia and their families against the economic costs associated with schizophrenia.
Knees with anteromedial osteoarthritis show a substantial phenotypic variation prior and following medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty
Authors: ten Noever de Brauw G. V. , Bayoumi T. , Ruderman L. V. , Kerkhoffs G. M. M. J. , Pearle A. D. , Zuiderbaan H. A.
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the phenotypic variation using the Coronal Plane Alignment of the Knee (CPAK) classification among 1000 knees with anteromedial osteoarthritis (OA) both prior to and following medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA). The secondary aim of this study was to investigate whether knees maintained their preoperative CPAK phenotype and to evaluate the phenotypic alterations following medial UKA.

Methods

The CPAK classification was used to analyze 1000 knees that underwent medial UKA as treatment for anteromedial OA. Knees were categorized into nine distinct CPAK phenotypes based on their arithmetic hip–knee–ankle angle (aHKA), which estimates the pre‐arthritic alignment, and joint line obliquity (JLO), both pre‐ and postoperatively. Phenotypic variation was analyzed by sex and age, and the phenotypic alterations following medial UKA were evaluated by phenotype.

Results

Preoperatively, CPAK phenotype I had the highest prevalence (45.0%). Among males, the preoperative prevalence of CPAK phenotype I was significantly higher compared to females (53.2% vs. 35.0%, respectively; p ≤ .001), whereas females exhibited a significantly higher occurrence of CPAK phenotype V compared to males (9.8% vs. 4.4%, respectively; p ≤ .015). Following medial UKA, CPAK phenotype II had the highest prevalence (53.3%). Overall, 45.1% of knees maintained their preoperative CPAK phenotype following medial UKA, which was most frequently observed among CPAK phenotype II (67.7%) and III (65.8%).

Conclusion

There is a substantial variation in CPAK phenotypes among knees with anteromedial OA, as well as following treatment with medial UKA. This variability challenges the assumption of uniform characteristics among knees with an identical wear pattern associated with anteromedial OA and emphasizes the complexity and variability of this specific form of OA.

Level of evidence

III, Retrospective cohort study.
Hypohydration induced by prolonged cycling in the heat increases biomarkers of renal injury in males
Authors: Juett Loris A. , Drury Jack E. , Greensmith Thomas B. , Thompson Alfie P. , Funnell Mark P. , James Lewis J. , Mears Stephen A.
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Recent studies have shown that hypohydration can increase renal injury. However, the contribution of hypohydration to the extent of renal injury is often confounded by exercise induced muscle damage. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of manipulating hydration status during moderate-intensity cycling in the heat on biomarkers of renal injury.

Methods

Following familiarisation, fourteen active males (age: 21 [20–22] y; BMI: 22.1 ± 1.9 kg/m2; $$ \dot{V} $$

V
˙

O2peak: 55 ± 9 mL/kg/min) completed two experimental trials, in a randomised cross-over design. Experimental trials consisted of up to 120 min of intermittent cycling (~ 50% Wpeak) in the heat (~ 35 °C, ~ 50% relative humidity). During exercise, subjects consumed either a water volume equal to 100% body mass losses (EU) or minimal water (HYP; 75–100 mL) to induce ~ 3% body mass loss. Blood and urine samples were collected at baseline, 30 min post-exercise and 24 h post-baseline, with an additional urine sample collected immediately post-exercise.

Results

Thirty minutes post-exercise, body mass and plasma volume were lower in HYP than EU (P < 0.001), whereas serum and urine osmolality (P < 0.001), osmolality-corrected urinary kidney injury molecule-1 concentrations (HYP: 2.74 [1.87–5.44] ng/mOsm, EU: 1.15 [0.84–2.37] ng/mOsm; P = 0.024), and percentage change in osmolality-corrected urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin concentrations (HYP: 61 [17–141] %, EU: 7.1 [– 4 to 24] %; P = 0.033) were greater in HYP than EU.

Conclusion

Hypohydration produced by cycling in the heat increased renal tubular injury, compared to maintaining euhydration with water ingestion.
Prevalence of the virulence genes and their correlation with carbapenem resistance amongst the Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains isolated from a tertiary hospital in China
Authors: Wang Xiaohuan , Gao Kaijing , Chen Cuicui , Zhang Cuiping , Zhou Chunmei , Song Yuanlin , Guo Wei
Published: October 2023

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the top-listed pathogens in nosocomial infection. It is notorious for its complicated virulence system and rapid adaptability to drugs or antimicrobials. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the prevalence of sixteen virulence genes in four groups including type III secretion system, biofilm formation, extracellular toxin biosynthesis and enzymes amongst 209 clinical Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains. We investigated the different distribution patterns of virulence genotypes based on carbapenem-resistant phenotype or the carriage of carbapenemase genes. The detection rate of each virulence gene varied greatly. phzM and plcN were detected in all collected strains, while pilB and exoU were only carried by a small portion of isolates (6.7% and 16.3%). Additionally, the number of genotypes observed in each group of examined virulence genes ranged from 4 to 8. Only the distribution of genotypes of type III secretion system showed statistical difference between carbapenem-mediated or carbapenem-resistant and carbapenem-sensitive strains. The virulence genotype of Pseudomonas aeruginosa was possibly interrelated to its resistance mechanism. Further research suggested that one particular TTSS genotype exhibited higher ratio in carbapenemase-producing strains and exoS was less frequently detected in CRPA strains carrying carbapenemase gene. Generally, the significant genetic diversity of virulence genes amongst Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains was highlighted in this study. Specific TTSS genotypes were associated with carbapenem-resistance. In particular, certain incompatibility might exist between exoS and carbapenemase genes, which provided valuable information for further understanding the relationship between carbapenem resistance and virulence.
What climate? The different meaning of climate indicators in violent conflict studies
Authors: Dahm Ruben , Meijer Karen , Kuneman Ernst , van Schaik Louise
Published: October 2023

This paper explores the operationalization of climate-related indicators in violent conflict research. The climate-conflict narrative gained traction in recent decades and climate change is often referred to as a ‘threat multiplier’ by both policy makers and scholars. Yet, the relationships between climate-related phenomena and violent conflict are complex and context-specific. However, limited attention has been given to the climatic indicators applied in climate-conflict research. This paper addresses that gap by analyzing 32 studies published from 2004 to 2020 on the operationalization of climatic indicators and their relationship with violent conflict. It first categorizes climate indicators operationalization into five clusters: natural disasters, basic climate variability, advanced climate variability, freshwater availability, and the ENSO. The study evaluates the climate indicators for each cluster and shows that at an aggregate level these clusters examine 68 different climate representations. When paired with their respective conflict types, it finds a total of 113 climate-conflict combinations. Most operationalizations represent various forms of climate-related phenomena and variability rather than climate change. Some indicators are advancements over time, for example moving from changes in average rainfall to standardized precipitation indices. However, other indicators refer to various natural processes, making it challenging to determine whether climatic variability impacts conflict. The paper then demonstrates a discrepancy between the pathways through which climate may affect violent conflict and the representation of these pathways in the selected climate indicators. It discusses how the selection and operationalization of climate indicators requires careful consideration, and the phenomena researched should be well-specified in research findings.
Digitalization and its impact on labour market and education. Selected aspects
Authors: Hetmańczyk Piotr
Published: October 2023

The main purpose of the article is to demonstrate the need for multidimensional professional training of employees for challenges related to the rapidly-developing digitalization, which consequently translate into the competitiveness of the economy. The theses presented in the article have been verified using: literature review, critical literature analysis, document research and comparative analysis. Based on this article, we can discuss a future in which man and the surrounding reality will depend on the rapidly-developing digitalization. This phenomenon may lead to a fading of the known world and the transition to a new one defined by technologies based on the flow of data and its analysis. However, knowledge will still remain important for such a change. It seems that the ongoing education system should be better connected with competencies allowing for changes that are taking place in the economic environment. The article demonstrates the importance of knowledge and provides an opportunity to exchange ideas in the vigorously-developing digitalization. Through the knowledge presented in the article, it can be concluded that the digitalization of the education system and labour market means revolutionary changes, incomparable with the objectives and scope of the existing measures.
Exploring the links between climate transparency and mitigation policy through a reflexive capacity lens: case studies of Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, and Mexico
Authors: Kamil Nila , Karlsson-Vinkhuyzen Sylvia
Published: October 2023

As the multilateral climate transparency mechanism increasingly blurs the differentiation between developed and developing countries, it catalyses international pressure on the latter to adopt more ambitious mitigation policies and stringent reporting. This article delves into the relationship between the International Consultation and Analysis (ICA), a climate transparency mechanism under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), and the mitigation policies of emerging economies, namely Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, and Mexico. Using the conceptual framework of reflexive capacity, we explore how the ICA enhances the ability of these countries' governments to recognize, reflect upon, and respond to demands for mitigation information. Our research draws on interviews with key government officials, UNFCCC personnel, and experts involved in the ICA process, participant observation, and extensive analysis of primary documents including the Biennial Update Reports, Technical Analysis Synthesis Reports, and countryspecific submissions. The findings demonstrate that the ICA fosters the enhancement of government actors’ reflexive capacities by furthering their understanding of transparency’s significance, advancing their technical reporting expertise, and subjecting individual country performance to scrutiny. Such capacities not only lead to improvements in domestic practices related to the generation and disclosure of mitigation-related information but also empower these countries to assert their entitlement to differentiated responsibilities in the face of increasing demands for mitigation and reporting. The enhanced reflexive capacity and heightened scrutiny are anticipated to play pivotal role in facilitating the development of more ambitious mitigation policies and more effective climate transparency mechanisms at both domestic and global levels.
Across the firefly-verse: comparison of niche suitability of an exotic firefly in its native and colonized range
Authors: Gil-Tapetado Diego , Koken Marcel , De Cock Raphaël , Gómez Jose F. , Cabrero-Sañudo Francisco José , Polidori Carlo
Published: October 2023

Photinus signaticollis Blanchard, 1846 (Coleoptera: Lampyridae) is a firefly native to South America and recently established in Europe. Since 2016, this firefly has colonized the northeastern part of the Iberian Peninsula and crossed the Pyrenees to reach southern France in 2019. The larvae of this firefly feed on earthworms, so a high density of this species could negatively impact this key group in soil processes and agriculture. The precise extent of colonization, the environmental niche and the potential range expansion in non-native areas are currently unknown. Using species distribution models, we have found the high suitability areas across Europe where P. signaticollis may become established if introduced. Interestingly, using only South American records and associated conditions modelling it can be strongly predicted where the species is currently found in Europe. Despite a few propagules of P. signaticollis detected in very unsuitable areas of Spain were no longer detected after their initial observation, the climatic niche overlap between South America and Europe populations appeared to be very low. In our case, this pattern is more likely to reflect a high unfilled niche rather than a niche expansion or niche shift, because many occupied areas in South America possess a climate not occurring in Europe. Among the considered variables, we furthermore found that only the temperature seasonality appeared to be the same in both native and European areas and relevant in the models, suggesting that it may represent the main limiting factor for establishing this firefly.
A hybrid model for lung cancer prediction using patch processing and deeplearning on CT images
Authors: Venkatesh C. , Chinna Babu J. , Kiran Ajmeera , Nagaraju C. H. , Kumar Manoj
Published: October 2023

Cancer is a common disease with an increasing mortality rate in recent years. Lung cancer is the most common cancer in men and women alike. It is caused by uncontrolled cell development in the lungs. These cells are divided into two types: benign and malignant. Benign tumours are usually harmless, do not spread to other cells, and have a smooth and regular shape, whereas malignant tumours can be dangerous and spread to other body cells to form a new cancerous nodule with an uneven shape. If lung cancer is detected early, it can be treated. Lung cancer symptoms typically appear in the human body when it is in its final stage, but advanced technology and computer-aided systems can detect it at an early stage. Currently, numerous conventional and machine learning techniques are used for such automated detection systems to detect lung cancer in its early stages, but such automated detection systems do not provide accurate detection and the processing of lung cancer detection takes a long time. As a result, a novel method for detecting lung cancer that employs deep learning techniques for accurate detection while requiring less computation time is proposed. CT images are used in this study because they have less noise disturbance than MRI and X-ray images. Median filtering and patch processing are used to improve image quality on such CT scans. These pre-processed images are then subjected to a clustering segmentation process, which segments the image and feeds it to a CNN classifier. For feature extraction and classification, CNN architecture is used. In the future extraction section, various low-level and high-level features are extracted. The classification layer is in charge of determining whether the provided image contains a malignant, benign, or normal tumour. Finally, statistical parameters like MSE, PSNR, Accuracy, Sensitivity, Specificity, and others were computed and combined with the existing system in this work.
Field-based recovery technique for improved adaptive finite element analysis of photonic devices
Authors: El-Agamy M. , Heikal A. M. , Atia K. S. R. , Hameed Mohamed Farhat O. , Obayya Salah S. A.
Published: October 2023

A new adaptive finite element (FE) technique is proposed to enhance the accuracy of the solution of wave propagation in integrated photonic devices. The suggested recovery technique improves significantly the finite element convergence rate compared to refinement techniques. The method refines the elements based on the field distribution. This recovery technique estimates the error at each element by comparing the linear FE solution and the recovery solution using least-squares method. The numerical aspects and accuracy of the method are investigated using the light propagation in both one-dimensional and two-dimensional photonic devices.
Ubiquitination Process Mediates Prostate Cancer Development and Metastasis through Multiple Mechanisms
Authors: Li Wen , Wang Zhiyu
Published: October 2023

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a common malignant tumor in men, when the disease progresses to the advanced stage, most patients will develop distant metastasis and develop into castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), resulting in increased mortality. Ubiquitination is a widespread protein post-translational modification process in the biological world, and it plays an important role in the development and transfer of PCa. E3 ubiquitin ligase plays an important role in the specific selection and role of substrates in the process of ubiquitination ligase. This review will briefly introduce the ubiquitination process and E3 ubiquitin ligase, focus on the recently discovered multiple mechanisms by which ubiquitination affects PCa development and metastasis, and a summary of the current emerging proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTAC) in the treatment of PCa.