bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using large language models to generate silicon samples in consumer and marketing research: Challenges, opportunities, and guidelines
Authors: Sarstedt Marko , Adler Susanne J. , Rau Lea , Schmitt Bernd
Published: February 2024

Should consumer researchers employ silicon samples and artificially generated data based on large language models, such as GPT, to mimic human respondents' behavior? In this paper, we review recent research that has compared result patterns from silicon and human samples, finding that results vary considerably across different domains. Based on these results, we present specific recommendations for silicon sample use in consumer and marketing research. We argue that silicon samples hold particular promise in upstream parts of the research process such as qualitative pretesting and pilot studies, where researchers collect external information to safeguard follow‐up design choices. We also provide a critical assessment and recommendations for using silicon samples in main studies. Finally, we discuss ethical issues of silicon sample use and present future research avenues.
A novel intronic variant causing aberrant splicing identified in two deaf Chinese siblings with enlarged vestibular aqueducts
Authors: Wang Suyang , Zhu Yi‐Ming , Xu ChenYang , Ding Wenjuan , Jia Hui , Bian Panpan , Xu Baicheng , Guo Yufen , Liu Xiaowen
Published: February 2024

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the genotype–phenotype relationship in two Chinese family members with enlarged vestibular aqueduct (EVA).

Methods

We collected blood samples and clinical data from each pedigree family member. Genomic DNA was isolated from peripheral leukocytes using standard methods. Targeted next‐generation sequencing and Sanger sequencing were performed to find the pathogenic mutation in this family. Minigene assays were used to verify whether the novel intronic mutation SLC26A4c.765+4A>G influenced mRNA splicing.

Results

Hearing loss in the patients with EVA was diagnosed using auditory tests and imaging examinations. Two pathogenic mutations, c.765+4A>G and c.919‐2A>G were detected in SLC26A4. In vitro minigene analysis confirmed that c.765+4A>G variant could cause aberrant splicing, resulting in skipping over exon 6.

Conclusions

The SLC26A4c.765+4A>G mutation is the causative variant in the Chinese family with EVA. Particular attention should be paid to intronic variants.
Oculocutaneous albinism type 4: Novel compound heterozygous mutations in the SLC45A2 gene in a Chinese case
Authors: He Danyue , Liu Xiaonan , Yao Tianyu , Hu Jie , Zheng Xiaodong , Tang Lili , Fan Xing
Published: February 2024

Background

Oculocutaneous albinism type 4 (OCA4) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by a reduction of pigmentation in skin, hair, and eyes, and OCA4 is mainly seen in the SLC45A2 gene variants.

Objective

To report a Chinese patient suspected of oculocutaneous albinism and identify the causing mutation.

Methods

Genomic DNA was extracted from the peripheral blood samples of the patient, his parents, and elder brother. Whole exome sequencing was performed in the family, and Sanger sequencing was then used to verify the mutations.

Results

Compound heterozygous variants, c.1304C>A (p.S435Y) and c.301C>G (p.R101G) in SLC45A2 gene, were detected in the proband, which were inherited from his father and mother respectively. Based on the ACMG guidelines, we can interpret the c.1304C>A (p.S435Y) variant as a suspected pathogenic variant and the c.301C>G (p.R101G) variant as a clinically significant unspecified variant. The diagnosis of OCA4 is confirmed.

Conclusion

We firstly reported this case of OCA4 with the compound heterozygous variants in the SLC45A2 gene. Our findings further enrich the reservoir of SLC45A2 mutations in OCA4.
Allicin Promotes Glucose Uptake by Activating AMPK through CSE/H2S‐Induced S‐Sulfhydration in a Muscle‐Fiber Dependent Way in Broiler Chickens
Authors: Li Kelin , Uyanga Victoria A. , Wang Xiaojuan , Jiao Hongchao , Zhao Jingpeng , Zhou Yunlei , Li Haifang , Lin Hai
Published: February 2024

Scope

Allicin, a product of enzymatic reaction when garlic is injured, plays an important role in maintaining glucose homeostasis in mammals. However, the effect of allicin on glucose homeostasis in the state of insulin resistance remains to be elucidated. This study investigates the effect of allicin on glucose metabolism using different muscle fibers in a chicken model.

Methods and results

Day‐old male Arbor Acres broilers are randomly divided into three groups and fed a basal diet supplemented with 0, 150, or 300 mg kg−1 allicin for 42 days. Results show that allicin improves the zootechnical performance of broilers at the finishing stage. The glucose loading test (2 g kg−1 body mass) indicates the regulatory role of allicin on glucose homeostasis. In vitro results demonstrate allicin increases glutathione (GSH) level and the expression of cystathionine γ lyase (CSE), leading to endogenous hydrogen sulfide (H2S) production in M. pectoralis major (PM) muscle‐derived myotubes. Allicin stimulates adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) S‐sulfhydration and AMPK phosphorylation to promote glucose uptake, which is suppressed in the presence of d,l‐propargylglycine (PAG, a CSE inhibitor).

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that allicin induces AMPK S‐sulfhydration and AMPK phosphorylation to promote glucose uptake via the CSE/H2S system in a muscle fiber‐dependent manner.
Nature's contributions to human well‐being under climate change: Evidence from Central and Eastern Madagascar
Authors: Petzold Jan , Kosanic Aleksandra , Rakoto Joseph Felana , Rajaonarivelo Andrianina Princy , Ranaivosoa‐Toandro Sitraka Mireille , Andriamihaja Onintsoa Ravaka , Voahanginirina Leonnie Marcelline , Thien Lara , Razanajatovo Mialy
Published: February 2024

Anthropogenic climate change has an unprecedented impact on ecosystems and their services, with severe consequences for human well‐being, particularly for the marginalised and vulnerable members of society in the Global South. The well‐being of communities relies not only on material and regulating services ecosystems provide but also on non‐material services.

In this paper, we unravel the diverse ways that climate change impacts affect Nature's Contributions to People (NCP) and the well‐being of rural populations in four sites in Madagascar—a biodiversity hotspot but one of the economically poorest countries in the world. We conducted participatory community workshops, mapping and semi‐structured interviews with local residents across social subgroups to understand the mechanisms of climate‐related degradation and the resulting impacts on different dimensions of human well‐being through an NCP lens.

We found that non‐material services are generally more often associated with well‐being effects. Climate change degrades material and non‐material services through sea level rise, biodiversity loss, drought, precipitation and temperature variability, with consequences for materials, companionship and labour, food and feed, and physical and psychological experiences. Loss of land and forests is expressed through ecological grief.

The outcome of our research provides evidence‐based information to local policymakers, conservation practitioners, and climate change agencies.

This information can help improve government efforts toward holistic conservation and climate change adaptation by addressing the impacts on the physical and mental well‐being of the most vulnerable communities.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Examining the relations between interventionists' use of classroom management and student mathematics gains within a Tier 2 kindergarten mathematics intervention
Authors: Turtura Jessica , Sutherland Marah , Kosty Derek , Doabler Christian T. , Lussier Cayla , Clarke Benjamin
Published: February 2024

Effective classroom management is critical to supporting student learning and success in school. However, little research has focused specifically on the impact of classroom management on student mathematics achievement, especially in the early elementary grades or in a small group (i.e., Tier 2) context. To address this need we investigated the relationship between classroom management and student mathematics achievement within the context of ROOTS, a validated Tier 2 kindergarten mathematics intervention taught by paraprofessionals. Results show that the quality of classroom management within the ROOTS intervention predicted gains in student mathematics achievement from pretest to posttest. These findings have critical implications for practitioners, including the importance of integrating effective classroom management techniques into Tier 2 mathematics intervention groups and supporting paraprofessionals' knowledge and use of effective classroom management.
Development of the Cyberbullying Awareness Scale for adolescents: Validity and reliability study
Authors: Yurdakul Yeşim , Bütün Ayhan Aynur
Published: February 2024

The present study aims to develop the Cyberbullying Awareness Scale (CAS) for adolescents, which assesses adolescents' awareness about cyberbullying, and to examine the psychometric properties of the scale by conducting validity and reliability studies. In this context, evidence on the validity and reliability of the scale was obtained in two separate studies. In Study 1 (N = 552), scale items were developed, content validity was examined, and exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was performed to determine the factor structure of the scale. In addition, criterion‐related validity and reliability analyses were performed. The mean age of the participants in Study 1 was 14.6. In Study 2 (N = 338), Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was performed to confirm the factorial structure obtained as a result of EFA. The mean age of the participants in Study 2 was 14.8. As a result of the research, it was determined that the CAS for adolescents had a three‐factor structure comprised of Cyberbullying Tendency, Coping with Cyberbullying and Protection from Cyberbullying. The internal consistency coefficients were calculated as 0.80 for the Cyberbullying Tendency sub‐dimension, 0.76 for the Coping with Cyberbullying sub‐dimension and 0.63 for the Protection from Cyberbullying sub‐dimension. In line with the obtained results, it can be said that the CAS for adolescents is a valid and reliable measurement tool for determining the awareness of adolescents in the 12–18 age group on cyberbullying.
Physical aging and vitrification in polymers and other glasses: Complex behavior and size effects
Authors: Cangialosi Daniele
Published: February 2024

The paradigmatic view on the transformation of a supercooled liquid into a glass, so‐called vitrification or glass transition, and the subsequent time evolution of the non‐equilibrium glass, addressed as physical aging, relies on the exclusive role of the main relaxation with super‐Arrhenius temperature dependence. The aim of the present review is to carefully scrutinize the wealth of recent experimental results, above all in polymeric glasses, showing the relevance of other relaxational mechanisms in both vitrification and physical aging. While the relaxation bears dominant role in both phenomena in proximity of the glass transition temperature, , a broad view on a much wider temperature range indicates that vitrification and physical aging are mediated by non‐ mechanisms of equilibration. This review also shows that a reduction of the typical time scale of equilibration can be achieved in glasses with large free interface, namely with reduced sample size. In this way, fast non‐ mechanisms of equilibration can be exploited to convey glasses to low energy states in experimentally feasible time scales, thereby attaining information on the existence of the so‐called “ideal glass” in small sized samples.
Isobavachalcone, a natural sirtuin 2 inhibitor, exhibits anti‐triple‐negative breast cancer efficacy in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Ren Ya‐li , Lei Jie‐ting , Zhang Ting‐rui , Lu Peng , Cui Dan‐dan , Yang Bo , Zhao Gui‐ying , Peng Fu , Cao Zhi‐xing , Peng Cheng , Li Yu‐zhi
Published: February 2024

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive and lethal clinical subtype and lacks effective targeted therapies at present. Isobavachalcone (IBC), the main active component of Psoralea corylifolia L., has potential anticancer effects. Herein, we identified IBC as a natural sirtuin 2 (SIRT2) inhibitor and characterized the potential mechanisms underlying the inhibition of TNBC. Molecular dynamics analysis, enzyme activity assay, and cellular thermal shift assay were performed to evaluate the combination of IBC and SIRT2. The therapeutic effects, mechanism, and safety of IBC were analyzed in vitro and in vivo using cellular and xenograft models. IBC effectively inhibited SIRT2 enzyme activity with an IC50 value of 0.84 ± 0.22 μM by forming hydrogen bonds with VAL233 and ALA135 within its catalytic domain. In the cellular environment, IBC bound to and stabilized SIRT2, consequently inhibiting cellular proliferation and migration, and inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest by disrupting the SIRT2/α‐tubulin interaction and inhibiting the downstream Snail/MMP and STAT3/c‐Myc pathways. In the in vivo model, 30 mg/kg IBC markedly inhibited tumor growth by targeting the SIRT2/α‐tubulin interaction. Furthermore, IBC exerted its effects by inducing apoptosis in tumor tissues and was well‐tolerated. IBC alleviated TNBC by targeting SIRT2 and triggering the reactive oxygen species ROS/β‐catenin/CDK2 axis. It is a promising natural lead compound for future development of SIRT2‐targeting drugs.
Using PAH‐SYMPACT to assess quality of life in patients with pulmonary hypertension associated with chronic lung disease
Authors: Bailey Morgan E. , Durst Louise , Cajigas Hector R. , Kane Garvan C. , Krowka Michael J. , Kushwaha Sudhir S. , McCully Robert B. , Murphy Joseph G. , Reddy Yogesh N. , Frantz Robert P. , DuBrock Hilary M.
Published: February 2024

Chronic lung disease (CLD) is the second leading cause of pulmonary hypertension (PH) and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Although PH associated with CLD (PH‐CLD) leads to impaired health‐related quality of life (HRQOL), there are no validated tools to assess HRQOL in PH‐CLD. The Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension–Symptoms and Impact Questionnaire (PAH‐SYMPACT) is an HRQOL instrument aimed at assessing the symptoms and impact of PH on overall function and well‐being. We performed a single‐center prospective cohort study using PAH‐SYMPACT scores to compare symptoms, exercise capacity and HRQOL in patients with PAH and PH‐CLD. One hundred and twenty‐five patients (99 patients with idiopathic/heritable PAH and 26 with PH‐CLD) completed the PAH‐SYMPACT questionnaire which consists of 22 questions that assess HRQOL across four domains: cardiopulmonary (CP) symptoms, cardiovascular (CV) symptoms, physical impact (PI), and cognitive/emotional (CE) impact. Higher scores indicate worse HRQOL. We compared patients with PAH and PH‐CLD using a Wilcoxon rank sum or chi‐squared test as appropriate. Multivariate linear regression analysis was used to assess the relationship between PH classification and SYMPACT scores. Compared to PAH, patients with PH‐CLD were older, more likely to use oxygen and had worse functional class and exercise capacity. While there was no significant difference between the two groups in CP, CV, or CE domain scores, patients with PH‐CLD had significantly worse PI scores by univariate (1.79 vs. 1.13, p < 0.001) and multivariate analysis (1.61 vs. 1.17, p = 0.02) and overall worse SYMPACT scores (1.19 vs. 0.91, p = 0.03). In conclusion, patients with PH‐CLD have worse HRQOL as assessed by the PAH‐SYMPACT questionnaire versus patients with PAH. Although PAH‐SYMPACT has not been validated in PH‐CLD, the results of this study can guide clinicians in understanding the symptoms and impact of PH‐CLD relative to PAH.
A case of hot tub lung secondary to mycobacterium avium complex in Victoria, Australia
Authors: Chhor Louis , Tumali Reditta Soraya , Östberg Caroline , Sachdev Anish
Published: February 2024

Hot tub lung (HTL) is a type of Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis (HP) caused by inhalation of aerosols containing non‐tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM). We report the first case of hot tub lung in Victoria, Australia. A 31‐year‐old female presented with 3 weeks of dyspnoea, fevers and malaise, despite a course of antibiotics. She had used an indoor spa frequently for the past several months. She was hypoxic saturating 86% on room air. Examination revealed fine bilateral basal crepitations without wheeze. Inflammatory markers were elevated. A high resolution CT (HRCT) chest demonstrated extensive bilateral ground glass changes and centrilobular nodular opacities involving upper and lower zones. Bronchial washings were obtained and isolated Mycobacterium Avium Complex. Clinically, the patient had excellent response to empirical corticosteroids and avoidance of hot tub. This case highlights the importance of clinical history taking and suspicion of Hot Tub Lung as a differential diagnosis in a patient with a compatible clinical history, radiology and microbiology and exposure to a hot tub.
Structured singular value of a repeated complex full‐block uncertainty
Authors: Mushtaq Talha , Bhattacharjee Diganta , Seiler Peter , Hemati Maziar S.
Published: February 2024

The structured singular value (SSV), or , is used to assess the robust stability and performance of an uncertain linear time‐invariant system. Existing algorithms compute upper and lower bounds on the SSV for structured uncertainties that contain repeated (real or complex) scalars and/or nonrepeated complex full‐blocks. This paper presents algorithms to compute bounds on the SSV for the case of repeated complex full‐blocks. This specific class of uncertainty is relevant for the input‐output analysis of many convective systems, such as fluid flows. Specifically, we present a power iteration to compute the SSV lower bound for the case of repeated complex full‐blocks. This generalizes existing power iterations for repeated complex scalars and nonrepeated complex full‐blocks. The upper bound can be formulated as a semi‐definite program (SDP), which we solve using a standard interior‐point method to compute optimal scaling matrices associated with the repeated full‐blocks. Our implementation of the method only requires gradient information, which improves the computational efficiency of the method. Finally, we test our proposed algorithms on an example model of incompressible fluid flow. The proposed methods provide less conservative bounds as compared to prior results, which ignore the repeated full‐block structure.
Synthesis of a Series of Quinoxaline Derivatives and Their Antibacterial Effectiveness Against Pathogenic Bacteria
Authors: Khatoon Hena , Abdul Malek Emilia , Faudzi Siti Munirah , Rukayadi Yaya
Published: February 2024

The pharmacological importance of quinoxaline derivatives in antibacterial research is well recognized. This study focuses on the synthesis of new 2,3‐dichloroquinoxaline derivatives containing thioether/ether groups to explore their potential as potent antibacterial agents against various pathogenic bacteria. Most of the compounds exhibited significant antibacterial properties comparable to the standard drug chlorhexidine (CHX). The derivatives of 2‐chloro‐3‐(arylthiol)quinoxaline demonstrated efficacy against Escherichia coli with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of 2.5 mg/mL and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBC) of 2.5 to 5.0 mg/mL. These derivatives also showed similar sensitivity to Bacillus pumilus. In addition, molecular docking simulations were performed to investigate the interaction between the synthesized compounds and the DNA gyrase protein (PDB ID: 1KZN), a target for antibiotics. Among the synthesized compounds, 2,3‐bis(3‐nitrophenoxy)quinoxaline exhibited the most favourable docking score of −8.36 kcal/mol, with a binding affinity comparable to that of the reference ligand clorobiocin (−9.3 kcal/mol).
Challenges and Strategies for Synthesizing High Performance Micro and Nanoscale High Entropy Oxide Materials
Authors: Zhang Liang , Jia Jiru , Yan Jianhua
Published: February 2024

High‐entropy oxide micro/nano materials (HEO MNMs) have shown broad application prospects and have become hot materials in recent years. This review comprehensively provides an overview of the latest developments and covers key aspects of HEO MNMs, by discussing design principles, computer‐aided structural design, synthesis challenges and strategies, as well as application areas. The analysis of the synthesis process includes the role of high‐throughput process in large‐scale synthesis of HEOs MNMs, along with the effects of temperature elevation and undercooling on the formation of HEO MNMs. Additionally, the article summarizes the application of high‐precision and in situ characterization devices in the field of HEO MNMs, offering robust support for related research. Finally, a brief introduction to the main applications of HEO MNMs is provided, emphasizing their key performances. This review offers valuable guidance for future research on HEO MNMs, outlining critical issues and challenges in the current field.
Deciphering the In Situ Reconstruction of Metal Phosphide/Nitride Dual Heterostructures for Robust Alkaline Hydrogen Evolution Above 3 A cm−2
Authors: Liao Liling , Zhou Qian , Liu Feng , Ma Yuhua , Cheng Cheng , Huang Haiman , Yu Fang , Long Run , Zhou Haiqing
Published: February 2024

Hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in neutral or alkaline electrolytes is appealing for sustainable hydrogen production driven by water splitting, but generally suffers from unsatisfied catalytic activities at high current densities owing to extra kinetic energy barriers required to generate protons through water dissociation. In response, here, a competitive Ni3N/Co3N/CoP electrocatalyst with multifunctional interfacial sites and multilevel interfaces, in which Ni3N/CoP performs as active sites to boost initial water dissociation and Co3N/CoP accelerates subsequent hydrogen adsorption process as confirmed by density functional theory calculations and in situ X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis, is reported. This hybrid catalyst possesses extraordinary HER activity in base, featured by extremely low overpotentials of 115 and 142 mV to afford 500 and 1000 mA cm−2, respectively, outperforming most ever‐reported metal phosphides‐based catalysts. This catalyst presents an ultrahigh current density of 3545 mA cm−2 by a factor of 4.96 relative to noble Pt/C catalysts (715 mA cm−2) at 0.2 V. Assembled with Fe(PO3)2/Ni2P anode, industrial‐level current densities of 500/1000 mA cm−2 at ultralow cell voltages of 1.62/1.66 V for overall water electrolysis with outstanding long‐term stability are actualized. More interestingly, this hybrid catalyst also performs well in acidic, neutral freshwater, and seawater requiring relatively low overpotentials of 140, 290, and 331 mV to reach 500 mA cm−2. Particularly, this catalyst can withstand electrochemical corrosion without obvious activity decay at the industrial‐level current densities for over 100 h in base. This work provides a cornerstone for the construction of advanced catalysts operated in different pH environments.
Comparative genomics points to tandem duplications of SAD gene clusters as drivers of increased α‐linolenic (ω‐3) content in S. hispanica seeds
Authors: Zare Tannaz , Paril Jeff F. , Barnett Emma M. , Kaur Parwinder , Appels Rudi , Ebert Berit , Roessner Ute , Fournier‐Level Alexandre
Published: February 2024

Salvia hispanica L. (chia) is a source of abundant ω‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω‐3‐PUFAs) that are highly beneficial to human health. The genomic basis for this accrued ω‐3‐PUFA content in this emerging crop was investigated through the assembly and comparative analysis of a chromosome‐level reference genome for S. hispanica. The highly contiguous 321.5‐Mbp genome assembly covering all six chromosomes enabled the identification of 32,922 protein‐coding genes. Two whole‐genome duplications (WGD) events were identified in the S. hispanica lineage. However, these WGD events could not be linked to the high α‐linolenic acid (ALA, ω‐3) accumulation in S. hispanica seeds based on phylogenomics. Instead, our analysis supports the hypothesis that evolutionary expansion through tandem duplications of specific lipid gene families, particularly the stearoyl‐acyl carrier protein desaturase (ShSAD) gene family, is the main driver of the abundance of ω‐3‐PUFAs in S. hispanica seeds. The insights gained from the genomic analysis of S. hispanica will help establish a molecular breeding target that can be leveraged through genome editing techniques to increase ω‐3 content in oil crops.
Before homozygous NDUFAF5 variants are held responsible for intrauterine death, their pathogenicity must be demonstrated
Authors: Finsterer J.
Published: February 2024

Linked article: This Correspondence comments on Brabbing‐Goldstein et al. Click here to view the article.
Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS®) Society abdominal and thoracic surgery recommendations: A systematic review and comparison of guidelines for perioperative and pharmacotherapy core items
Authors: Powers Bowen K. , Ponder Harley L. , Findley Rachelle , Wolfe Rachel , Patel Gourang P. , Parrish Richard H. ,   for the Enhanced Recovery Comparative Pharmacotherapy Collaborative
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Worldwide, ERAS® Society guidelines have ushered in a new era of perioperative care. The purpose of this systematic review is to compare published core elements and pharmacotherapy recommendations embedded within ERAS® Society abdominal and thoracic surgery (ATS) guidelines. Determining whether a consensus exists for pharmacological core items would make future guideline preparation for similar surgeries more standardized and could improve patient care by reducing unnecessary protocol variations.

Methods

From the ERAS® Society website as of May 2023, 16 current ERAS® published ATS guidelines were included in the analysis to determine consensus and differing statements regarding each ERAS® perioperative and pharmacotherapy‐related item. The aims were to (a) determine whether a consensus for each item could be derived, (b) identify gaps in ERAS® protocol development, and (c) propose potential research directions for addressing the identified gaps in the literature.

Results

Core items with consensus included: preoperative smoking and alcohol cessation; avoiding bowel reparation and fasting; multimodal preanesthetic, perioperative analgesia, and postoperative nausea and vomiting regimens; low molecular weight heparins for in‐hospital and at‐home venous thromboembolism prophylaxis; antibiotic prophylaxis; skin preparation; goal‐directed perioperative fluid management with balanced crystalloids; perioperative nutrition care; ileus prevention with peripherally‐acting mu receptor antagonists; and glucose control.

Conclusion

While consensus was found for aspects of 21 current ERAS® guideline core items related to pharmacotherapy choice, details related to doses, regimen, timing of administration as well as unique aspects pertaining to specific surgeries remain to be researched and harmonized to promote guideline consistency and further optimize patient outcomes.
Total Gaussian Curvature
Authors: Pinkall Ulrich , Gross Oliver
Published: February 2024

If we know a plane curve $$\gamma \colon [a,b]\to \mathbb {R}^2$$
γ
:
[
a
,
b
]
→

ℝ

2

near its end points, we know its total curvature $$\int _a^b \kappa \,ds$$

∫

a

b

κ

d
s
up to an integer multiple of $$2\pi $$
2
π
.
Diseases of the Sella Turcica and Parasellar Region
Authors: Kucharczyk W. , Loevner L. A.
Published: February 2024

Knowledge of the anatomy in the regions of the sella turcica, suprasellar cistern, and cavernous sinus paired with clinical history and presentation is important for accurate image interpretation. Focused diagnosis of lesions in these regions requires identifying the anatomic location in which a lesion arises, evaluation of specific imaging findings inherent to the lesion as well as in the surrounding structures, and correlation with clinical presentation (symptoms and signs).

It is important to determine whether a mass arises in the sella turcica versus the suprasellar cistern, and whether it involves both the sella turcica and suprasellar cistern.

Imaging features of a sellar mass that should be assessed include:

Arising from or separate from the pituitary gland

Cystic degeneration

Size of the sella

Infundibulum involved

Stalk deviation

Relationship to chiasm

Edema optic pathways, hypothalamus

Cavernous sinus—internal carotid artery

Osseous remodeling, destruction
Problem Solving Disorders of CSF
Authors: Dobrocky Tomas , Rovira Àlex
Published: February 2024

Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension (SIH)

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) is a debilitating medical condition, which is perpetuated by the continuous loss of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) at the level of the spine, and is the top differential diagnosis for patients presenting with orthostatic headache. Neuroimaging plays a crucial role in the diagnostic work-up and monitoring SIH, as it provides objective data in the face of various clinical symptoms and very often a normal opening pressure on lumbar puncture. Brain MRI frequently demonstrates typical signs of CSF depletion and includes homogenous dural enhancement, venous distention, subdural collections, and brain sagging. Three types of CSF leaks may be distinguished: (1) ventral dural leaks due to microspurs, (2) leaking spinal nerve root cysts, (3) or direct CSF venous fistula. The quest for the leak may be the fabled search for the needle in the haystack, scrutinizing the entire spine for a dural breach often the size of pin. The main role of spine imaging is the correct classification and precise localization of CSF leaks. Precise localization of the CSF leak site is crucial to successful treatment, which is generally a targeted percutaneous epidural patch or surgical closure when conservative measures fail to provide long-term relief.

Obstructive Hydrocephalus. Communicating Hydrocephalus. Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus

Modern imaging techniques play an essential role for understanding of the anatomy of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) spaces and ventricular system, as well as the hydrodynamics of CSF flow, and consequently in the assessment of the different types of hydrocephalus. Obstructive (non-communicating) hydrocephalus is a complex disorder resulting from an obstruction/blockage of the CSF circulation along one or more of the narrow apertures connecting the ventricles, being the most common type of hydrocephalus in children and young adults. On the other hand, communicating hydrocephalus is defined as a cerebrospinal fluid flow circulation abnormality outside the ventricular system that produces an increase in the ventricular size. Most cases are secondary to obstruction of CSF flow between the basal cisterns and brain convexity and include common conditions such as subarachnoid hemorrhage and meningitis (infectious and neoplastic). In a subset of communicating hydrocephalus, no CSF obstruction can be demonstrated as occurs in normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), a complex entity with poorly understood cerebrospinal fluid dynamics. Neuroradiology plays an essential role in the diagnosis of hydrocephalus, and in distinguishing this condition from other causes of ventriculomegaly.
Dryland Social-Ecological Systems in Australia
Authors: Feng Xiaoming , Chen Yongzhe , Wei Fangli , Xu Zhihong , Lu Nan , Lu Yihe
Published: February 2024

Dryland social-ecological systems in Australia are characterized by a water-limited climate, vulnerable terrestrial ecosystems, advanced ecosystem management, and the highest average wealth. Dryland social-ecological systems in Australia have been facing the accelerated warming and rapid socioeconomic developments since the twenty-first century, including GDP increases and urban development, but with great diversity. Ecosystem structures and ecosystem services are highly influenced by extreme climate events. According to the number of extreme high daily precipitation events, droughts and floods have increased rapidly since the 1970s. Australia has achieved successful grazing, fire, biodiversity, and water resource management; climate change mitigation; and ecosystem management methods of community engagement. Non-indigenous population ageing is a social threat of dryland social-ecological systems in Australia in recent decades. The integration of policy makers, funding agencies, and the general public is essential for Australia’s dryland social-ecological systems.
Existence and regularity results for nonlinear elliptic equations in Orlicz spaces
Authors: Barletta Giuseppina
Published: February 2024

We are concerned with the existence and regularity of the solutions to the Dirichlet problem, for a class of quasilinear elliptic equations driven by a general differential operator, depending on $$(x,u,\nabla u)$$

(
x
,
u
,
∇
u
)

, and with a convective term f. The assumptions on the members of the equation are formulated in terms of Young’s functions, therefore we work in the Orlicz-Sobolev spaces. After establishing some auxiliary properties, that seem new in our context, we present two existence and two regularity results. We conclude with several examples.
Enhancing powder bed fusion of alumina ceramic material: a comprehensive study from powder tailoring to mechanical performance evaluation
Authors: Abdelmoula Mohamed , Küçüktürk Gökhan , Juste Enrique , Petit Fabrice
Published: February 2024

Powder bed fusion (PBF) is an additive manufacturing (AM) technique that holds a great promise for alumina ceramic materials to be processed in a one step. To ensure an effective outcome, the powder material should be thoroughly tailored, and the process parameters should be appropriately investigated. These process parameters include laser power, scanning speed, hatching space, and scanning strategies. The alumina powder has been tailored and modified to be appropriately used for PBF using the spray-drying technique, and the process parameters have been predicted and selected using a developed numerical model. Different scanning speeds of 100, 200, 300, and 400 mm/s have been considered, and the other parameters have been numerically predicted. The results demonstrated that spray drying is an effective technique for tailoring the characteristics of alumina powder, such as particle shape, particle size distribution, flowability, and absorptivity, making it ideally suited for PBF processing. Furthermore, the developed numerical model demonstrated outstanding reliability in predicting the most effective laser power and hatching space for different scanning speeds, resulting in significant cost and time savings when compared to relying solely on experimental trials. Employing a scanning speed of 400 mm/s yielded a significant improvement in relative density and quality of the printed samples surpassing other scanning speeds. Moreover, this speed effectively addressed various challenges encountered by other scanning speeds. Following the optimization of process parameters, it was determined that a relative density of 94.5% could be achieved by utilizing a scanning speed of 400 mm/s, a laser power of 210 W, and a hatching space of 30 µm. However, the evaluation of mechanical performance revealed that while the microhardness of the printed alumina samples matched the values reported in the literature, the attained compressive strength fell significantly below the values reported in the literature.
Modular air–liquid interface aerosol exposure system (MALIES) to study toxicity of nanoparticle aerosols in 3D-cultured A549 cells in vitro
Authors: Küstner M. J. , Eckstein D. , Brauer D. , Mai P. , Hampl J. , Weise F. , Schuhmann B. , Hause G. , Glahn F. , Foth H. , Schober A.
Published: February 2024

We present a novel lung aerosol exposure system named MALIES (modular air–liquid interface exposure system), which allows three-dimensional cultivation of lung epithelial cells in alveolar-like scaffolds (MatriGrids®) and exposure to nanoparticle aerosols. MALIES consists of multiple modular units for aerosol generation, and can be rapidly assembled and commissioned. The MALIES system was proven for its ability to reliably produce a dose-dependent toxicity in A549 cells using CuSO4 aerosol. Cytotoxic effects of BaSO4- and TiO2-nanoparticles were investigated using MALIES with the human lung tumor cell line A549 cultured at the air–liquid interface. Experiments with concentrations of up to 5.93 × 105 (BaSO4) and 1.49 × 106 (TiO2) particles/cm3, resulting in deposited masses of up to 26.6 and 74.0 µg/cm2 were performed using two identical aerosol exposure systems in two different laboratories. LDH, resazurin reduction and total glutathione were measured. A549 cells grown on MatriGrids® form a ZO-1- and E-Cadherin-positive epithelial barrier and produce mucin and surfactant protein. BaSO4-NP in a deposited mass of up to 26.6 µg/cm2 resulted in mild, reversible damage (~ 10% decrease in viability) to lung epithelium 24 h after exposure. TiO2-NP in a deposited mass of up to 74.0 µg/cm2 did not induce any cytotoxicity in A549 cells 24 h and 72 h after exposure, with the exception of a 1.7 fold increase in the low exposure group in laboratory 1. These results are consistent with previous studies showing no significant damage to lung epithelium by short-term treatment with low concentrations of nanoscale BaSO4 and TiO2 in in vitro experiments.
Stochastic Navier–Stokes Equations for Turbulent Flows in Critical Spaces
Authors: Agresti Antonio , Veraar Mark
Published: February 2024

In this paper we study the stochastic Navier–Stokes equations on the d-dimensional torus with transport noise, which arise in the study of turbulent flows. Under very weak smoothness assumptions on the data we prove local well-posedness in the critical case $$\mathbb {B}^{d/q-1}_{q,p}$$

B

q
,
p

d
/
q
-
1

for $$q\in [2,2d)$$

q
∈
[
2
,
2
d
)

and p large enough. Moreover, we obtain new regularization results for solutions, and new blow-up criteria which can be seen as a stochastic version of the Serrin blow-up criteria. The latter is used to prove global well-posedness with high probability for small initial data in critical spaces in any dimensions $$d\geqslant 2$$

d
⩾
2

. Moreover, for $$d=2$$

d
=
2

, we obtain new global well-posedness results and regularization phenomena which unify and extend several earlier results.
Trend and Seasonality of Hip Fractures in Catalonia, Spain: Exploring the Influence of Climate
Authors: Surís Xavier , Rodríguez Clara , Llargués Esteve , Pueyo-Sánchez Maria J. , Larrosa Marta
Published: February 2024

To describe the secular trend and seasonality of the incidence of hip fracture (HF) and its relationship with climatic variables during the period 2010–2019 in Catalonia in people aged ≥ 65 years. The results were analyzed by sex, age groups (65–74, 75–84, and ≥ 85), and types of fracture (extracapsular and intracapsular). Data on sex, age, type of fracture, year, and month of hospitalization of patients admitted with a diagnosis of HF between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2019 were collected. Crude and standardized HF incidence (HFi) rates were obtained. Data on the monthly mean of climatological variables (temperature, insolation, icy days, rain, relative humidity, atmospheric pressure, and wind force) were obtained from the network of meteorological stations in Catalonia. Time series analytical statistics were used to identify trends and seasonality. Linear regression and a seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) were used to analyze the relationship of each climatic parameter with fracture rates. In addition, generalized additive models were used to ascertain the best predictive model. The total number of HF episodes was 90,149 (74.1% in women and 25.9% in men). The total number of HFs increased by 6.4% between 2010 and 2019. The median age (SD) was 84.5 (7.14) and 54% of patients were ≥ 85 years of age. Extracapsular fractures were the most common (55%). The standardized incidence rates decreased from 728.1/100,000 (95% CI 738.6–769.3) to 624.5/100,000 (95% CI 648.7–677.0), which represents a decrease of 14.2% (p < 0.05). The decline was greater at older ages. There were seasonal variations, with higher incidences in autumn (27.2%) and winter (25.7%) and lower rates in summer (23.5%) and spring (23.6%). Seasonality was more pronounced in elderly people and men. In the bivariate regression analysis, high temperatures and greater insolation were negatively associated with the HF rate, while the number of icy days, rainy days, and high relative humidity were associated with a higher incidence of fractures in all age groups and sexes. In the regression analysis using the seasonal ARIMA model, only insolation had a consistently significant association with overall HFi, after adjusting by trend and other climatic parameters. While the global number of HFs grew in Catalonia due to increases in the elderly population, the standardized HF rate decreased during the years 2010–2019. There was a seasonal trend, with predominance in the cold months and correlations with climatic parameters, especially with insolation.
Distinct profiles of proliferating CD8+/TCF1+ T cells and CD163+/PD-L1+ macrophages predict risk of relapse differently among treatment-naïve breast cancer subtypes
Authors: Ntostoglou Konstantinos , Theodorou Sofia D. P. , Proctor Tanja , Nikas Ilias P. , Awounvo Sinclair , Sepsa Athanasia , Georgoulias Vassilis , Ryu Han Suk , Pateras Ioannis S. , Kittas Christos
Published: February 2024

Immunophenotypic analysis of breast cancer microenvironment is gaining attraction as a clinical tool improving breast cancer patient stratification. The aim of this study is to evaluate proliferating CD8 + including CD8 + TCF1 + Τ cells along with PD-L1 expressing tissue-associated macrophages among different breast cancer subtypes. A well-characterized cohort of 791 treatment-naïve breast cancer patients was included. The analysis demonstrated a distinct expression pattern among breast cancer subtypes characterized by increased CD8 + , CD163 + and CD163 + PD-L1 + cells along with high PD-L1 status and decreased fraction of CD8 + Ki67 + T cells in triple negative (TNBC) and HER2 + compared to luminal tumors. Kaplan–Meier and Cox univariate survival analysis revealed that breast cancer patients with high CD8 + , CD8 + Ki67 + , CD8 + TCF1 + cells, PD-L1 score and CD163 + PD-L1 + cells are likely to have a prolonged relapse free survival, while patients with high CD163 + cells have a worse prognosis. A differential impact of high CD8 + , CD8 + Ki67 + , CD8 + TCF1 + T cells, CD163 + PD-L1 + macrophages and PD-L1 status on prognosis was identified among the various breast cancer subtypes since only TNBC patients experience an improved prognosis compared to patients with luminal A tumors. Conversely, high infiltration by CD163 + cells is associated with worse prognosis only in patients with luminal A but not in TNBC tumors. Multivariate Cox regression analysis in TNBC patients revealed that increased CD8 + [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.542; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.309–0.950; p = 0.032), CD8 + TCF1 + (HR = 0.280; 95% CI 0.101–0.779; p = 0.015), CD163 + PD-L1 + (HR: 0.312; 95% CI 0.112–0.870; p = 0.026) cells along with PD-L1 status employing two different scoring methods (HR: 0.362; 95% CI 0.162–0.812; p = 0.014 and HR: 0.395; 95% CI 0.176–0.884; p = 0.024) were independently linked with a lower relapse rate. Multivariate analysis in Luminal type A patients revealed that increased CD163 + was independently associated with a higher relapse rate (HR = 2.360; 95% CI 1.077–5.170; p = 0.032). This study demonstrates that the evaluation of the functional status of CD8 + T cells in combination with the analysis of immunosuppressive elements could provide clinically relevant information in different breast cancer subtypes.
Bone marrow biopsy in geriatric patients above the age of 85 years: invaluable or unnecessary? A retrospective analysis
Authors: Zhang Kailun David , Jost Edgar , Panse Jens , Herwartz Reinhild , Lindemann-Docter Katharina , Jonigk Danny , Kricheldorf Kim , Köchel Anja , Sauerbrunn Nicolas , Brümmendorf Tim H. , Koschmieder Steffen , Isfort Susanne
Published: February 2024

Bone marrow biopsy (BMB) is a well-established diagnostic tool for various hematological, oncological, and other medical conditions. However, treatment options for geriatric patients (pts) facing these diseases are often constrained. In this single-center, retrospective analysis we assessed the diagnostic value of BMB in geriatric pts aged ≥ 85 years and examined its impact on therapeutic decisions. We examined 156 BMB procedures in 129 pts, extracting data from the electronic patient records and applying descriptive statistical methods. Nearly half of the primary diagnostic procedures (26; 44.1%) resulted in a modification of the initially suspected diagnosis. Notably, 15 (25.4%) of these procedures, led to changes in both the diagnosis and planned interventional treatment. Among the 15 follow-up procedures (36.6%), disease progression was initially suspected based on symptoms, but BMB results excluded such progression. In lymphoma staging biopsies, only 2 (3.6%) prompted a change in therapeutic intervention. Importantly, no BMB-related complications, such as bleeding, infection or nerve damage, were reported. Median survival after BMB was 16.1 months across all pts, yet it varied based on the diagnosis and comorbidity score. The survival of pts with a change in therapy based on BMB results did not significantly differ from those who did not undergo a therapy change. In conclusion, BMB proved to be generally safe and beneficial in this geriatric cancer patient cohort beyond the age of 85 years. However, the advantages of lymphoma staging in this patient population warrant further consideration.