bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the Effect of Botulinum Toxin A on the Lymphatic Endothelial Cells
Authors: Vasella Mauro , Wolf Stefan , Grünherz Lisanne , Kim Bong-Sung , Lindenblatt Nicole , Giovanoli Pietro , Gousopoulos Epameinondas
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Botulinum toxin A (BoTA) is a neurotoxin formed by Clostridium botulinum, with a broad medical application spectrum. While the primary effect of BoTA is on the muscles, the effects of BoTA in other systems including the blood vasculature have already been examined, revealing unexpected actions. However, no studies exist to the best of our knowledge regarding the potential effects of BoTA on the lymphatic vascular system, possessing a critical role in health and disease. Isolated human lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) were cultured in dedicated in vitro culture systems. The analysis including imaging and cell culture approaches as well as molecular biology techniques is performed to examine the LEC alterations occurring upon exposure to different concentrations of BoTA.

Materials and Methods

Human LECs were cultured and expanded on collagen-coated petri dishes using endothelial basal medium and the commercial product Botox from Allergan as used for all our experiments. Harvested cells were used in various in vitro functional tests to assess the morphologic and functional properties of the BoTA-treated LECs. Gene expression analysis was performed to assess the most important lymphatic system-related genes and pathways.

Results

Concentrations of 1, 5 or 10 U of BoTA did not demonstrate a significant effect regarding the proliferation and migration capacity of the LECs versus untreated controls. Interestingly, even the smallest BoTA dose was found to significantly decrease the cord-like-structure formation capacity of the seeded LECs. Gene expression analysis was used to underpin possible molecular alterations, suggesting no significant effect of BoTA in the modification of gene expression versus the starvation medium control.

Conclusion

LECs appear largely unaffected to BoTA treatment, with an isolated effect on the cord-like-structure formation capacity. Further work needs to assess the effect of BoTA on the smooth-muscle-cell-covered collecting lymphatic vessels and the possible aesthetic implications of such an effect, due to edema formation.

Level of Evidence V

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.
Multi-Center Two-Year Patency Outcomes of Endovascular Arteriovenous Fistulas (endoAVF) Created with a 4 French System
Authors: Klein Erez , Repko Brandon , Alvarez Alejandro , Inston Nicholas , Jones Robert , Rajan Dheeraj K.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

To assess multicenter two-year patency outcomes of endovascular arteriovenous fistulas (endoAVF) created with the WavelinQ device.

Materials and Methods

Patients who had fistulas created at three centers from January 2018 to December 2020 were included in this retrospective study. In total, 112 patients underwent endoAVF creation [40 females, 72 males; mean age 60 years (range 18–88)]. Data collected included patient demographics, location of fistula creation, interventions performed, and brachial artery flows pre- and post-creation. Two-year cumulative patency, functional patency, and primary patency were assessed with Kaplan–Meier methodology. Factors affecting patency and maturation were examined using the Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

Technical success defined as angiographically successful endoAVF creation was 97.3% (109/112). In 11 patients the fistula did not mature for dialysis use. For 98 patients (87%) with endoAVF maturation, 12- and 24-month cumulative patency was 94.3% and 91.7%. Functional patency (two-needle cannulation) at 12 and 24 months was 95.7% and 92.7%, respectively. Median maturation time is 95 days (IQR 51–231 days). Male gender and brachial vein coiling at the time of endoAVF creation were predictive of maturation. There were 34 censored events (four patients undergoing renal transplantation; 30 patients deceased). Number of reinterventions per patient year was 0.73 where 43 were maturation procedures and 101 were maintenance procedures. One Grade 3 complication occurred of arterial access puncture site pseudoaneurysm.

Conclusion

A high two-year functional and cumulative patency following endoAVF creation with the WavelinQ device was observed in this multicenter real-world experience Level of Evidence: 3

Level of Evidence III

Graphical Abstract
Fruits and vegetables intake and bladder cancer risk: a pooled analysis from 11 case–control studies in the BLadder cancer Epidemiology and Nutritional Determinants (BLEND) consortium
Authors: Boot Iris W. A. , Wesselius Anke , Jochems Sylvia H. J. , Yu Evan Y. W. , Bosetti Cristina , Taborelli Martina , Porru Stefano , Carta Angela , Golka Klaus , Jiang Xuejuan , Stern Mariana C. , Kellen Eliane , Pohlabeln Hermann , Tang Li , Karagas Margaret R. , Zhang Zuo-Feng , Taylor Jack A. , La Vecchia Carlo , Zeegers Maurice P.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

High consumption of fruits and vegetables decrease the risk of bladder cancer (BC). The evidence of specific fruits and vegetables and the BC risk is still limited.

Methods

Fruit and vegetable consumptions in relation to BC risk was examined by pooling individual participant data from case–control studies. Unconditional logistic regression was used to estimate study-specific odds ratio’s (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and combined using a random-effects model for intakes of total fruits, total vegetables, and subgroups of fruits and vegetables.

Results

A total of 11 case–control studies were included, comprising 5637 BC cases and 10,504 controls. Overall, participants with the highest intakes versus the lowest intakes of fruits in total (OR 0.79; 95% CI 0.68–0.91), citrus fruits (OR 0.81; 95% CI 0.65–0.98), pome fruits (OR 0.76; 95% CI 0.65–0.87), and tropical fruits (OR 0.84; 95% CI 0.73–0.94) reduced the BC risk. Greater consumption of vegetables in total, and specifically shoot vegetables, was associated with decreased BC risk (OR 0.82; 95% CI 0.68–0.96 and OR 0.87; 95% CI 0.78–0.96, respectively). Substantial heterogeneity was observed for the associations between citrus fruits and total vegetables and BC risk.

Conclusion

This comprehensive study provides compelling evidence that the consumption of fruits overall, citrus fruits, pome fruits and tropical fruits reduce the BC risk. Besides, evidence was found for an inverse association between total vegetables and shoot vegetables intake.
Audiological outcomes after revision stapes surgeries: a systematic review
Authors: Székely László , Uri Imre , Luka Ágnes , Gáborján Anita , Tamás László , Polony Gábor
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Revision stapes surgery is a challenging procedure performed in relatively small numbers compared to other middle ear procedures. Despite numerous data on hearing results of different middle ear surgeries, the audiological standards for successful outcome of this procedure are still not clarified. On the basis of well-documented data, we wanted to determine what the expected audiological results and complications are after revision stapes surgery in order to set a realistic threshold for surgical success.

Methods

After the protocol registration in the PROSPERO database, a systematic review was performed in multiple databases (PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, Scopus, ScienceOpen, ClinicalTrials.gov, Google Scholar) according to PRISMA guidelines. Twelve articles were reviewed according to the inclusion criteria. A total of 1032 cases were obtained for evaluation. A modified version of Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS) was used to assess publication quality.

Results

Average air–bone gap (ABG) gain was 17.3 dB, average air conduction (AC) gain was 17.5 dB. The average postoperative air–bone gap was 11.1 dB. The postoperative ABG distribution was the following 0–10 dB: 53.3%, > 10–20 dB: 28.2%, > 20 dB: 18.5%. SNHL as a surgical complication was described in a total of 17 cases (1.6%), no equilibrium disorder was reported.

Conclusion

The pooled data suggest that revision stapes surgery is an effective solution after failure of previous stapes surgery. However, the results are clearly inferior to those of primary stapedotomies. Hence, we need to apply different expectations and use different standards in the indication and evaluation of this type of surgery.
Epstein-Barr virus as promoter of Lemierre syndrome: systematic literature review
Authors: Delcò Alessia A. , Montorfani Sara M. M. A. , Gualtieri Renato , Lava Sebastiano A. G. , Milani Gregorio P. , Bianchetti Mario G. , Bronz Gabriel , Faré Pietro B. , Kottanattu Lisa
Published: June 2024

Purpose

To investigate a possible link between acute Epstein-Barr virus infection and Lemierre syndrome, a rare yet life-threatening infection.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted adhering to the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Diagnosis criteria for Lemierre syndrome were established, and data extraction encompassed demographic data, clinical, and laboratory information.

Results

Out of 985 initially identified papers, 132 articles were selected for the final analysis. They reported on 151 cases of Lemierre syndrome (76 female and 75 male patients with a median of 18 years) alongside interpretable results for Epstein-Barr virus serology. Among these, 38 cases (25%) tested positive for acute Epstein-Barr virus serology. There were no differences in terms of age, sex, or Fusobacterium presence between the serologically positive and negative groups. Conversely, instances of cervical thrombophlebitis and pulmonary complications were significantly higher (P = 0.0001) among those testing negative. The disease course was lethal in one case for each of the two groups.

Conclusions

This analysis provides evidence of an association between acute Epstein-Barr virus infection and Lemierre syndrome. Raising awareness of this link within the medical community is desirable.
Decreased peri-parafoveal RPE, EZ and ELM intensity: A novel predictive biomarker for hydroxychloroquine retinal toxicity
Authors: Yucel Gencoglu Aysun , Ağın Abdullah , Colak Dilan , Un Yasemin , Ozturk Yucel
Published: June 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the reflectivities of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), ellipsoid zone (EZ), and external limiting membrane (ELM) in the central fovea, perifoveal, and parafoveal regions with Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) and the change in choroid vascular index (CVI) in patients using hydroxychloroquine (HCQ).

Methods

Sixty-one patients underwent HCQ treatment; age and sex-matched 44 control group subjects were included in the study. The RPE, EZ, and ELM reflectivities were measured with the ImageJ program at 5 points, and CVI was calculated.

Results

RPE, EZ, and ELM reflectivities in the central fovea were higher in the HCQ group than in the control group (p < 0.001, p = 0.013, p = 0.022). In the HCQ group, there was a decrease in RPE reflectivities in the temporal, nasal parafovea, and nasal perifovea (p = 0.001, p = 0.03, p = < 0.001). EZ and ELM reflectivity in the nasal parafovea and nasal perifovea was lower in the patient group than in the control group (p = 0.007, p = 0.005, p = 0.009, p = 0.001). In the HCQ group, all absolute para and perifoveal reflectivities relative to the fovea decreased significantly more than in the control group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

In patients who underwent HCQ treatment, there is a decrease in the reflectivities of the para and perifoveal RPE, EZ, and ELM compared to the fovea. This decrease is more pronounced than the decrease in reflectivity in the para and perifoveal regions compared to the fovea in people who do not use HCQ. This situation can be considered as a sign of toxicity that is a precursor to overt maculopathy.
Comparison of the efficacy of taxanes with carboplatin and anthracyclines with taxanes in neoadjuvant chemotherapy for stage II–III triple negative breast cancer: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Wang Huibo , Zhang Nana , Sun Qi , Zhao Ziqi , Pang Hui , Huang Xiatian , Zhang Ruifeng , Kang Wenli , Shan Ming
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) regimen for triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) primarily consists of anthracyclines and taxanes, and the addition of platinum-based drugs can further enhance the efficacy. However, it is also accompanied by more adverse events, and considering the potential severe and irreversible toxicity of anthracyclines, an increasing number of studies are exploring nonanthracycline regimens that combine taxanes and platinum-based drugs.

Methods

The retrospective study included 273 stage II–III TNBC patients who received NACT. The AT group, consisting of 195 (71.4%) patients, received a combination of anthracyclines and taxanes, while the TCb group, consisting of 78 (28.6%) patients, received a combination of taxanes and carboplatin. Logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the factors influencing pathological complete response (pCR) and residual cancer burden (RCB). The log-rank test was used to assess the differences in event-free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) among the different treatment groups. Cox regression analysis was conducted to evaluate the factors influencing EFS and OS.

Results

After NACT and surgery, the TCb group had a higher rate of pCR at 44.9%, as compared to the AT group at 31.3%. The difference between the two groups was 13.6% (OR = 0.559, 95% CI 0.326–0.959, P = 0.035). The TCb group had a 57.7% rate of RCB 0–1, which was higher than the AT group's rate of 42.6%. The difference between the two groups was 15.1% (OR = 0.543, 95% CI 0.319–0.925, P = 0.024), With a median follow-up time of 40 months, the TCb group had better EFS (log-rank, P = 0.014) and OS (log-rank, P = 0.040) as compared to the AT group. Clinical TNM stage and RCB grade were identified as independent factors influencing EFS and OS, while treatment group was identified as an independent factor influencing EFS, with a close-to-significant impact on OS.

Conclusion

In stage II–III triple TNBC patients, the NACT regimen combining taxanes and carboplatin yields higher rates of pCR and significant improvements in EFS and OS as compared to the regimen combining anthracyclines and taxanes.
What if the upwelling weakens? Effects of rising temperature and nutrient depletion on coastal assemblages
Authors: Chabrerie Axel , Arenas Francisco
Published: June 2024

Surface temperature of the oceans has increased globally over the past decades. In coastal areas influenced by eastern boundary upwelling systems (EBUS), winds push seawater offshore and deep, cold and nutrient-rich seawater rise towards the surface, partially buffering global warming. On the North coast of Portugal, the NW Iberian upwelling system allows extensive kelp forests to thrive in these “boreal-like” conditions, fostering highly diverse and productive communities. However, the warming of the upper layer of the ocean may weaken this upwelling, leading to higher sea surface temperature and lower nutrient input in the coastal areas. The effects of these changes on the structure and function of coastal ecosystems remain unexplored. The present study aimed to examine the combined effects of elevated temperature and nutrient depletion on semi-naturally structured assemblages. The eco-physiological responses investigated included growth, chlorophyll fluorescence and metabolic rates at the levels of individual species and whole assemblages. Our findings showed interactive effects of the combination of elevated temperature with nutrient depletion on the large canopy-forming species (i.e., kelp). As main contributor to community response, those effects drove the whole assemblage responses to significant losses in productivity levels. We also found an additive effect of elevated temperature and reduced nutrients on sub-canopy species (i.e., Chondrus crispus), while turfs were only affected by temperature. Our results suggest that under weakening upwelling scenarios, the ability of the macroalgal assemblages to maintain high productivity rates could be seriously affected and predict a shift in community composition with the loss of marine forests.
Association between Swallowing Outcomes and Dose to Critical Swallow Structures in Patients Undergoing Transoral Robotic Surgery and Post-Operative Radiation Therapy
Authors: Charters Emma , Lawless Anna , Clark Jonathan R , McCabe Natalie , Milross Chris , Britton Rafe , Heller Gillian , Wu Raymond
Published: June 2024

Background

The radiation dose to dysphagia and aspiration-related structures (DARS) for patients undergoing transoral robotic surgery (TORS) and post-operative radiation therapy (PORT) for primary oropharyngeal carcinoma is unknown.

Methods

This prospective study measured swallowing using the MD Anderson Dysphagia Inventory at baseline and then 12-months after PORT. Dosimetric parameters were collected.

Results

19 patients were recruited between 2017 and 2019. Worse swallow function at 12-months after PORT was associated with dose-parameters to the oesophageal inlet muscle, superior pharyngeal constrictor muscle and cervical oesophagus. Mean dose, V50Gy, and V60Gy to the base of tongue and pharyngeal constrictors was significantly lower in those receiving PORT to the neck alone.

Conclusion

Dose to DARS was lower in patients who received PORT to the neck alone. In patients treated with TORS and PORT, poorer swallowing outcomes at 12 months post-treatment were associated with increased dose to oesophageal inlet muscle, superior constrictor muscle, and cervical oesophagus.
Comparison of nectar and pollen resources in various Tilia species. A case study from southern Poland
Authors: Dmitruk Marta , Denisow Bożena , Chrzanowska Ewelina , Dąbrowska Agnieszka , Bożek Małgorzata
Published: June 2024

Management of food resources is considered fundamental for supporting insect pollinators, whose abundance shows a downward trend on the global scale. Here, the nectar and pollen production (per flower, per 1 m2 of tree crown), the composition of nectar carbohydrates and the levels of pollen proteins was evaluated in eight Tilia species (Malvaceae) growing in SE Poland. In the warm-summer continental climate, Tilia species can improve nectar and pollen resources mainly in June/July. Although the flowering period of each species is short (8.0–14.7 days), appropriate selection of species can extend the availability of food for more than a month. However, the considerable variations in the flowering onset (11.2–20.1 days) may cause significant inter-seasonal shifts in food accessibility.

The nectar with its highly changeable sugar concentration (29.5–77.4%) was composed of sucrose, glucose, and fructose; protein content in pollen was 7.2–16.8%. The mean sugar yield was in the range of 0.95–19.1 g per 1 m2 (T. amuriensis – T. platyphyllos, respectively), whereas the mean pollen yield was 1.37–4.1 g per 1 m2 of tree crown (T. amuriensis – T. × euchlora, respectively). Significant year-to-year fluctuations of sugar and pollen yield in linden trees have to be taken into account in conservation schemes, and the introduction of other flowering plants with more stable sugar and pollen production should be considered in an area with a high density of linden trees. Linden flowers mainly support honey bees; nevertheless, wild pollinators (bumble bees, solitary bees, and dipterans) can also benefit from linden floral resources.
A synthetic approach to the Holiday Climate Index for the Mediterranean Coast of Türkiye
Authors: Bilgin Başak , Acar Sevil , Demiralay Zekican , An Nazan , Turp M. Tufan , Kurnaz M. Levent
Published: June 2024

Climate change affects the comfort level of tourists visiting coastal areas. Researching these impacts is important for a more comprehensive understanding of climate change and for developing effective adaptation solutions. Considering this fact, the study derived the Holiday Climate Index (HCI: Coast, HCI: Urban, and HCI: Combined) in the Mediterranean coastal provinces of Türkiye from 1976 to 2020. Utilizing the derived indices, the effects of climate-related holiday comfort on the number of tourist arrivals as well as on overnight stays between 1976 and 2020 were examined by panel data analysis. The study examined how comfort patterns could change during the period 2026–2050 under the pessimistic RCP8.5 scenario. It was detected that the comfort level significantly and positively affects the number of arrivals and overnight stays of tourists. Besides, comfort levels were found to deteriorate in the period 2026–2050 compared to the reference period, 1976–2020. As the comfort conditions get worse, the number of tourist arrivals and overnight stays is expected to decline in the future. It is envisaged that the results of the study can be useful for tourists, tourism professionals, operators, other stakeholders, and policymakers.
Increased incidence of traumatic spinal injury in patients aged 65 years and older in the Netherlands
Authors: Bruggink C. , van de Ree C. L. P. , van Ditshuizen J. , Polinder-Bos H. A. , Oner F. C. , Reijman M. , Rutges J. P. H. J.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The global population is ageing rapidly. As a result, an increasing number of older patients with traumatic spine injuries are seen in hospitals worldwide. However, it is unknown how the incidence of traumatic spinal injury has developed over the past decade. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the incidence and characteristics of traumatic spinal injury in patients aged under and above 65 years.

Methods

During three time periods: 2009–2010, 2014–2015 and 2019–2020, all adult patients with traumatic spinal injury in the Netherlands were identified from the Dutch National Trauma Registry. Patient-related characteristics and 1-year mortality were collected from a subgroup of patients treated at a level-1 trauma centre, and patients aged ≥ 65 years were compared to patients aged < 65 years.

Results

In the Dutch National Trauma Registry 25,737 patients with traumatic spinal injury were identified. The incidence of spine injury in patients > 65 years was 49.5/100,000/yr in 2009–2010, 68.8 in 2014–2015 and 65.9 in 2019–2020. The percentage of patients ≥ 65 years increased from 37% in 2009–2010, to 43% in 2014–2015, and to 47% in 2019–2020. In the subgroup of 1054 patients treated in a level-1 trauma centre, a similar increasing incidence was seen in patients aged ≥ 65 years. In these patients low energy falls were the most common trauma mechanism and the cervical spine was the most commonly injured region. Moreover, patients ≥ 65 years had significantly higher 1-year mortality compared with patients aged < 65 years, 22.7% versus 9.2%.

Conclusion

The incidence of traumatic spinal injury in older patients in the Netherlands has increased over the last 12 years. Almost half of the patients with traumatic spinal injury are currently aged ≥ 65 years. The increasing incidence and the high 1-year mortality highlight the need to modify existing treatment protocols for these patients.
Right-sided versus left-sided colorectal cancer in elderly patients: a sub-analysis of a large multicenter case–control study in Japan
Authors: Sada Haruki , Hinoi Takao , Niitsu Hiroaki , Ohdan Hideki , Yamamoto Seiichiro , Endo Shungo , Hida Koya , Kinugasa Yusuke , Enomoto Toshiyuki , Maruyama Satoshi , Konishi Fumio , Watanabe Masahiko ,   The Japan Society of Laparoscopic Colorectal Surgery, Kanehira Eiji , Shiozawa Kunihisa , Bando Hiroyuki , Yamamoto Daisuke , Kitano Seigo , Inomata Masafumi , Akagi Tomonori , Okuda Junji , Tanaka Keitaro , Yasui Masayoshi , Hirakawa Kosei , Maeda Kiyoshi , Kanazawa Akiyoshi , Hasegawa Junichi , Nishimura Junichi , Akamoto Shintaro , Ueno Masashi , Kuroyanagi Hiroya , Naito Masaki , Ueki Takashi , Sakai Yoshiharu , Hida Koya , Kinjo Yousuke , Kokuba Yukihito , Hamada Madoka , Saito Norio , Ito Masaaki , Yamaguchi Shigeki , Tashiro Jou , Yatsuoka Toshimasa , Furuhata Tomohisa , Okita Kenji , Kubo Yoshiro , Saito Shuji , Kinugasa Yosuke , Konishi Fumio , Sakamoto Kazuhiro , Goto Michitoshi , Tanaka Junichi , Miyajima Nobuyoshi , Suda Tadashi , Shimamura Tsukasa , Saida Yoshihisa , Enomoto Toshiyuki , Naito Takeshi , Munakata Yasuhiro , Hayashi Ken , Takii Yasukimi , Maruyama Satoshi , Kurose Yohei , Miyake Yasuhiro , Hazama Shoichi , Fujii Shoich , Yamagishi Shigeru , Okajima Masazumi , Yamamoto Seiichiro , Horie Hisanaga , Murata Kohei , Sugihara Kenichi
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study investigated the impact of sidedness of colorectal cancer (CRC) in elderly patients on the prognosis.

Methods

In a sub-analysis of a multicenter case–control study of CRC patients who underwent surgery at ≥ 80 years old conducted in Japan between 2003 and 2007, both short- and long-term outcomes were compared between right-sided colon cancers (RCCs) and left-sided colorectal cancers (LCCs). RCCs were defined as those located from the cecum to the transverse colon.

Results

Among the 1680 patients who underwent curative surgery, 812 and 868 had RCCs and LCCs, respectively. RCCs were more frequent than LCCs in those who were female, had renal comorbidities, and had a history of abdominal surgery. Regarding tumor characteristics, RCCs were larger, invaded more deeply, and were diagnosed as either mucinous or signet ring-cell carcinoma more frequently than LCCs. Regarding the prognosis, patients with RCCs had a significantly longer cancer-specific survival (CS-S) and cancer-specific relapse-free survival (CS-RFS) than those with LCCs. Furthermore, sidedness was determined to be an independent prognostic factor for CS-S and CS-RFS.

Conclusion

RCCs, which accounted for half of the cases in patients ≥ 80 years old, showed better long-term outcomes than LCCs.
The temperature dependence of the Hildebrand solubility parameters of selected hydrocarbon polymers and hydrocarbon solvents: a molecular dynamics investigation
Authors: Costa Gabriel P. , Choi Phillip , Stoyanov Stanislav R. , Liu Qi
Published: June 2024

Context

To determine the miscibility of liquids at high temperatures using the concept of Hildebrand solubility parameter $$\delta$$
δ
, the current practice is to examine the difference in $$\delta$$
δ
between two liquids at room temperature, assuming that $$\delta$$
δ
is not sensitive to temperature. However, such an assumption may not be valid for certain polymer blends and solutions. Therefore, a knowledge of the δ values of the liquids of interest at high temperatures is desirable. The determination of δ at high temperatures, especially for high-molecular-weight polymers, is impossible, as polymers have vapor pressures of zero. To this end, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations provide a practical means for determining δ over a wide range of temperatures. In this work, we study the temperature dependence of $$\delta$$
δ
of five hydrocarbon polymers: polyethylene (PE), isotactic and atactic polypropylene (i-PP and a-PP), polyisobutylene (PIB), and polyisoprene (PI) in five hydrocarbon solvents: n-pentane, n-hexane, n-dodecane, isobutene, and cyclohexane. The polymers are modeled as monodisperse chains with 100 repeat units. The average δ values of PE, i-PP, a-PP, PIB, and PI at 300 K are determined as 18.6, 14.9, 14.6, 14.3, and 16.4 MPa1/2, respectively, in a good agreement with experimental data. The δ values of these polymers at various temperatures are also determined. The temperature dependence of δ is fitted to two linear equations, one above and the other below the polymer’s glass transition temperature Tg. The δ values are more sensitive to temperature at T ≥ Tg. The Tg values of the polymers, determined based upon their specific volumes and δ values agree with the experiment qualitatively. The determination of the temperature dependence of δ has a great potential for industrial applications, such as determining miscibility, developing polymeric organogelators as flocculants and oil spill treating agents, and identifying potential solvents and ideal processing temperatures.

Methods

The MD simulations are performed using the GROMACS 2022.3 package with optimized potential for liquid simulations-all atom (OPLS-AA) force field parameters. All polymers are built as extended chains using CHARMM-GUI Polymer Builder.

Graphical Abstract
Swept-source optical coherence tomography and swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography findings in circumscribed choroidal hemangioma before and after transpupillary thermotherapy
Authors: Mirzayev Ibadulla , Gündüz Ahmet Kaan , Ergin Ahmet
Published: June 2024

Purpose

To investigate the swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) and SS-OCT angiography (SS-OCTA) findings in circumscribed choroidal hemangioma (CCH) before and after treatment with transpupillary thermotherapy (TTT).

Methods

The clinical records of 21 eyes having CCH imaged with SS-OCT/SS-OCTA between September 2018 and December 2022 were evaluated.

Results

SS-OCT examination in CCH showed dome-shaped appearance (100%), choroidal shadowing (100%), expansion of choroidal structures (100%), subretinal fluid (66.7%), intraretinal edema/schisis (33.3%), retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) atrophy (19.0%), hyperreflective dots (19.0%), and epiretinal membrane (4.8%). Internal arborizing tumor vessels showing hyperreflectivity were observed in the choriocapillaris slab on SS-OCTA in all eyes. In the deep capillary plexus (DCP), flow void changes were seen in 7 eyes with intraretinal schisis/cystoid macular edema. Four CCHs > 2 mm in thickness showed outer retinal involvement due to unmasking of flow in intratumoral vessels related to RPE atrophy. Following TTT/indocyanine green-enhanced TTT (ICG-TTT) of CCH, SS-OCT findings included total/partial resolution of subretinal fluid (57.1%), complete/partial regression of the tumor (52.4%), and RPE atrophy (33.3%). After treatment; loss of choriocapillaris, decrease in tumor vascularity together with increase in the fibrous component and flow void areas were detected on SS-OCTA.

Conclusions

SS-OCT/SS-OCTA are useful non-invasive tools for imaging the structural/vascular changes in CCHs managed with TTT or ICG-TTT. On SS-OCTA, hyporeflective spaces localizing to edema/schisis in the DCP and arborizing tumor vessels within a hyporeflective stromal background in the choriocapillaris slab were observed. After TTT/ICG-TTT, a decrease in tumor vessels and an increase in the fibrous component and flow-void areas inside the CCH were detected on SS-OCTA.
ED diagnosis of peritoneal carcinomatosis
Authors: Scheinfeld Devorah , Schwartz Carly , Fink Adam Z.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The goal of our study was to better characterize new CT diagnoses of peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) in the ED, and to evaluate how to best identify the primary lesion. Prompt identification of the source of the carcinomatosis may allow for the patient to receive early initial care from the correct clinical service.

Methods

All new CT cases of PC-like appearance identified on CT in the ED from January 2017 through July 2020. Each report and corresponding medical record were manually reviewed. Patient demographics, presence/absence of intravenous contrast, source organ predicted by the radiologist in the CT scan report, pathologic diagnosis, and amount of ascites were tabulated. Chi-tests were used to test the statistical significance of differences between groups.

Results

Of the 131 CT cases of new PC-like appearance which received workup, 108 cases had pathologically proven PC and 23 cases had no underlying malignancy yielding a positive predictive value for actual PC of 82%. The most common cause of new PC in women was gynecological (66%), and in men was of GI tract origin (57%). Concordance between radiologist prediction and final pathology was higher with intravenous contrast (58%) compared to without contrast (40%); although this difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.19). A moderate or large amount of ascites was found in more than half of GYN primaries and in adenocarcinoma of unknown primary and there was a statistically significant difference in amount of ascites between cancer primaries (p = 0.01).

Conclusion

A PC-like appearance on CT in the ED will likely be in patients with known malignancy, but of the new cases, there is a high PPV for it to represent new peritoneal carcinomatosis. Gynecological and GI malignancies are the most common cause in women and men, respectively, and this may help in focusing the radiologist’s search pattern. Usage of intravenous contrast may help in identifying a primary lesion, and the presence of high-volume ascites should suggest a GYN primary or adenocarcinoma of unknown primary when there is no other obvious primary lesion.
Clinical severity of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage over time: systematic review
Authors: Overstijns Manou , El Rahal Amir , Goldberg Johannes , Rölz Roland , Raabe Andreas , Bischoff Karin , Neidert Nicolas Noël , Beck Jürgen , Fung Christian
Published: June 2024

The incidence of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is well studied. Yet, little is known about the trend of aSAH severity. This systematic review aims to analyze the distribution of aSAH severity over time. We performed a systematic review of the literature according to the PRISMA-P guidelines. We included studies from January 1968 up to December 2022. Studies were included if they either reported the severity of aSAH as single increments of the corresponding 5-point scale or as a binary measure (good grade 1-3, poor grade 4-5) on the Hunt and Hess (HH) or World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies (WFNS) scale. Studies with fewer than 50 patients, (systematic) reviews, and studies including non-aSAH patients were excluded. A total of 2465 publications were identified, of which 214 met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. In total, 102,845 patients with an aSAH were included. Over the last five decades the number of good-grade HH (0.741 fold, p = 0.004) and WFNS (0.749 fold, p < 0.001) has decreased. Vice versa, an increase in number of poor grade HH (2.427 fold, p = 0.004), WFNS (2.289 fold, p < 0.001), as well as HH grade 5 (6.737 fold, p = 0.010), WFNS grade 4 (1.235 fold, p = 0.008) and WFNS grade 5 (8.322 fold, p = 0.031) was observed. This systematic review shows a worldwide 2-3 fold increase of poor grade aSAH patients and an 6-8 fold increase of grade 5 patients, over the last 50 years. Whether this evolution is due to more severe hemorrhage, improvements in neuro-intensive care and prehospital management, or to a change in grading behavior is unknown. This study strongly emphasizes the necessity for an improved grading system to differentiate grade 4 and grade 5 patients for meaningful clinical decision- making.
The gap between farmers and beneficiaries in terms of awareness and expectations regarding the paddy field dam project
Authors: Kawai Hiroki , Toyoda Risa , Tebekari Taichi , Yoshida Koshi , Noda Keigo
Published: June 2024

The paddy field dam (PFD) is a type of nature-based solution to flooding that is centered on a green infrastructure approach to flood control. PFDs have attracted a considerable amount of attention in Japan, with several studies evaluating their effectiveness. However, the perceptions of PFDs among stakeholders are unclear. In this study, we examined attitudes about PFDs via a questionnaire survey. We found that awareness of PFDs was low among beneficiaries and farmers who had not implemented this approach, and these farmers had significantly lower expectations regarding PFDs compared with beneficiaries and farmers who had implemented them. In addition, our data indicated that increasing the level of awareness could narrow the gap in expectations among stakeholders. Furthermore, a comparison of expectations regarding the PFD with quantitative estimations suggested that greater awareness is needed regarding this strategy. This could be achieved via the dissemination of correct information, including on the limitations of the PFD.
An investigation into the physical factors that control slow mass movements
Authors: Paul Jonathan D. , Beare Bethany , Brooks Zoe , Derguti Leonis , Sood Rachita
Published: June 2024

The behavior of slow mass movements like soil creep is well known to be governed by soil composition, slope, and cycles in temperature and rainfall. However, their magnitude and importance vary dramatically in often unpredictable ways, with important consequences for creep rate and infrastructure damage prediction. Here, we present long-term (2015–2022) creep measurements for four regions of the UK characterized by intense mass movement activity but different bedrock lithologies. We also obtained co-located temperature and precipitation time series over this period, as well as local measurements of slope and soil thickness and composition. Our goal was to deconvolve the relative importance of each observable on creep behavior. Our results imply that parent lithology governs first-order creep rates indirectly via hillslope repose angles and soil thickness and composition. Rates of ground movement on peat and sandstone soils are dictated by annual fluctuations in precipitation and temperature, respectively. By employing a simple error-minimizing regression routine, we demonstrate how creep rates can be predicted in these settings as a function of climatological observables. Over thinner limestone and thicker clay soils, however, our model fails: in these settings, we suggest that creep behavior is instead dominated by variations in regolith thickness, and slope and clay mineral content, respectively.
The impact of COVID-19 on the oral health self-care practices of Australian adults
Authors: McCormick Kym Michelle , Ribeiro Santiago Pedro Henrique , Jamieson Lisa
Published: June 2024

Aim

Grounded in Andersen’s Behavioral Model (ABM), this study aims to explore the network of causal relationships between those factors influencing oral health self-management behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic in Australia.

Subject and methods

Data were obtained from the Australian population. Participants (N = 565) aged between 19 and 91 years (M = 54.50, SD = 16.16) provided online responses between June 2021 and May 2022. The majority of participants were female (60.9%), employed either full-time (37.65%) or part-time (22.02%), and had completed an undergraduate degree or higher (70.1%). We implemented a triangulated approach, utilizing multiple modeling methodologies including the Gaussian graphical model (GGM), directed acyclic graph (DAG), and structural equation modeling (SEM). These methodologies were employed in three predetermined stages using a single cross-sectional dataset.

Results

A causal model elucidating the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on oral health self-management behavior was uncovered. The resulting GGM displayed an acceptable fit to the observed data. The DAG structure conformed to that expected by ABM, with all directed edges being also present as edges in the GGM. The subsequent SEM model specified by the DAG provided excellent fit to the data.

Conclusion

Our study offers empirical evidence that factors such as appointment availability, dental care affordability, and the opportunity to engage in oral health discussions with individuals other than dentists during the pandemic directly contributed to inadequate oral health self-care.
On K-stability of $$\mathbb {P}^3$$ blown up along a quintic elliptic curve
Authors: Cheltsov Ivan , Pokora Piotr
Published: June 2024

In this note, we study K-stability of smooth Fano threefolds that can be obtained by blowing up the three-dimensional projective space along a smooth elliptic curve of degree five.
Does Eco-Innovation of Emerging Market Firms Benefit from Knowledge Spillovers of MNC in a Multi-dimensional Task Environment?
Authors: Qu Yi , Wang Chengang , Wei Yingqi , Wu Lichao , Zheng Nan
Published: June 2024

Taking a socially proactive stance that aligns with their economic imperatives has led multinational corporations (MNCs) to focus on social innovation that tackles environmental challenges (or eco-innovation hereafter). Their knowledge of eco-innovation is important to emerging markets that are facing severe environmental challenges and to emerging market firms (EMFs) whose eco-innovation activities face resource and knowledge constraints. MNCs, through their foreign direct investment (FDI) activities in host emerging markets, can divulge economic, knowledge and environmental values of eco-innovation, helping EMFs to improve their eco-innovation through knowledge spillover channels. Taking the value-based approach, we draw on the eco-innovation research and the MNC/FDI spillovers literature to develop hypotheses on the relationship between regional knowledge spillovers of MNCs and the eco-innovation of EMFs in a multi-dimensional task environment characterized by munificence, complexity and dynamism. Our empirical examination is based on a sample of Chinese manufacturing firms from 2003 to 2013. We find support for hypotheses that regional knowledge spillovers of MNCs enhance the positive effects of munificence and mitigate the negative effects of complexity and dynamism on the eco-innovation of EMFs.
Typologie junger Menschen im Kontext des Kriegs in der Ukraine: Soziale Merkmale und Einstellungen gegenüber politischen Maßnahmen
Authors: Schuster Johannes , Fobel Lea , Kolleck Nina
Published: June 2024

Eine starke demokratische Kultur ist entscheidend für den Erhalt einer funktionierenden Demokratie. Die Perspektiven junger Menschen bezüglich politischer Maßnahmen spielen dabei eine bedeutende Rolle, da sie Tendenzen der Bevölkerung erkennen lassen und gerade in Krisenzeiten herausgefordert werden. Die Bewertung politischer Maßnahmen hängt eng mit soziodemografischen Faktoren zusammen. Um die Herausbildung potenziell demokratiegefährdender Meinungen unter Jugendlichen präventiv adressieren zu können, ist es notwendig, ein differenziertes Bild über politische Einstellungen zu erhalten. Basierend auf der sozialen Desintegrationstheorie haben wir vor diesem Hintergrund in einer aktuellen Studie die Einstellungen junger Menschen zu politischen Maßnahmen auf den Krieg in der Ukraine untersucht. Im Mittelpunkt stand die Beantwortung der Fragen: Welche Typen junger Menschen lassen sich hinsichtlich ihrer Bewertung politischer Maßnahmen auf den Krieg in der Ukraine bilden? Welchen Zusammenhang gibt es dabei mit sozialen Disparitäten? Analysen der Daten aus unserer repräsentativen Befragung mit 3240 Teilnehmenden (16–29 Jahre) weisen auf vier Typen hin: die Diplomatischen, die Allrounder, die Militanten und die Nationalen. Unsere Studie zeigt auch, dass Bildung, Geschlecht und Gefühle gesellschaftlicher Zugehörigkeit bei der Typenzuordnung eine wichtige Rolle spielen. Die Ergebnisse verdeutlichen die Herausforderungen politischer Bildung in Krisenzeiten und können dazu beitragen, gezielt politische Bildungsprogramme zu entwickeln, um Krisenzeiten besser zu bewältigen.
Characterization of Vacancy Defects Using TEM in Heavy-Ion-Irradiated Tungsten Foils
Authors: Sharma Prashant , Maya P. N. , Satyaprasad A. , Deshpande S. P.
Published: June 2024

The nature and type of defects formed due to heavy-ion irradiation in tungsten foils are analyzed using transmission electron microscopy. The recrystallized tungsten foils were irradiated by 80 MeV gold ions at room temperature for a fluence of 1.3 $$\times $$
×
 10$$^{14}$$

14

 ions/cm$$^2$$

2

that amounts to a net displacement per atom (dpa) of 0.22. The defect structures were analyzed using bright-field and weak-beam dark field imaging at two different depths to understand the depth profile of the defects. It is found that the defect clusters formed during the irradiation, both at the near-surface and at 2 $$\mu $$
μ
m depth are of vacancy type that is confirmed by the local strain analysis and supports the findings of vacancy clusters in positron lifetime measurements. The analysis also shows that the dislocation-lines were of pure edge, pure screw and mixed. The fraction of mixed dislocation is found to increase during irradiation at the expense of pure edge and screw dislocations.
Laparoscopic-Assisted ERCP in Gastric Bypass Patients—No Stones Left Unturned: A Single Center Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Petersen B. D. , Nørregaard C. , Krøijer R. , Floyd A. , Ploug M.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The long-term need for biliary duct intervention following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery (RYGB) is uncertain. We investigated the rate of laparoscopic assisted retrograde cholangiopancreatography (LAERCP) following RYGB. Also, the pre-LAERCP diagnostic workup together with the true rate of choledocholithiasis in patients with or without prior cholecystectomy was investigated.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective cohort study of RYGB and LAERCP performed at the Hospital South West Jutland, University Hospital of Southern Denmark, from 1 January 2013 to 31 May 2022.

Results

One percent of patients (n = 13) with a history of RYGB (n = 1363) underwent LAERCP at our facility during a median follow-up of 60.6 months. The stone extraction rate was 66.7% in patients with in situ gallbladder and 12.5% in patients with prior cholecystectomy. Cannulation of the common bile duct was achieved in 96.7% of cases. Postoperative complications were observed in 22.6% of the cases.

Conclusion

Approximately 1% of RYGB patients needed LAERCP during a median follow-up of 5 years. In patients with a history of cholecystectomy, the LAERCP rate of stone extraction was very low (12.5%).

Graphical Abstract
Wine waste valorisation: crushing the research domain
Authors: Abbate Stefano , Centobelli Piera , Di Gregorio Maria
Published: June 2024

In the past few years, the wine industry has shown an increasing interest in sustainability issues. There is growing agreement that circular economy solutions are essential for achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Implementing circular economy strategies can enhance the environmental and economic sustainability of wine production processes. In this context, waste valorisation and industrial symbiosis are widely discussed circular economy strategies. However, there is a gap between theory and actual practical implementation. The present paper uncovers the state of the art in the field of research by conducting a systematic literature review on a sample of 67 scientific papers, further including grey literature to obtain a more comprehensive overview of the phenomenon under investigation. The results of this study highlight the urgent need for the industry and the scientific community to investigate sustainable and profitable alternatives for wine waste valorisation. The tight ties between academia and business may support the wine industry in addressing this shift. Finally, this study proposes a research agenda for future studies. This includes sustainable practices for valorising raw materials at their maximum potential and the reduction of waste stream disposal. In order to implement circular strategies, including the recovery and recycling of valuable waste, modern wineries should implement technical, managerial, and valorisation strategies.