bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Automated Topic Analysis with Large Language Models
Authors: Kirilenko Andrei , Stepchenkova Svetlana
Published: May 2024

Topic modeling is a popular method in tourism data analysis. Many authors have applied various approaches to summarize the main themes of travel blogs, reviews, video diaries, and similar media. One common shortcoming of these methods is their severe limitation in working with short documents, such as blog readers’ feedback (reactions). In the past few years, a new crop of large language models (LLMs), such as ChatGPT, has become available for researchers. We investigate LLM capability in extracting the main themes of viewers’ reactions to popular videos of a rural China destination that explores the cultural, technological, and natural heritage of the countryside. We compare the extracted topics and model accuracy with the results of the traditional Latent Dirichlet Allocation approach. Overall, LLM results are more accurate, specific, and better at separating discussion topics.
Stakeholder Requirements and Governance for the European Data Space for Tourism
Authors: Stienmetz Jason , Kolomoyets Yuliya
Published: May 2024

Data spaces enable public and private actors to connect and exchange their data assets, creating an environment for product and service innovations. This applied research provides insights into perceived values, necessary features, governance and business model requirements for designing the sustainable European Data Space for Tourism (ETDS) from the point of view of the European tourism experts. A two-round Delphi study revealed a moderate consensus around ETDS’s data quality control measures, value creation, and key features. In contrast, the agreement regarding the governing body or business model was missing. Hence, no one-size-fit-all solution can meet the needs of all tourism stakeholders.
Cross-Cultural Differences in Emotional Response to Destination Commercials
Authors: Weismayer Christian , Pezenka Ilona
Published: May 2024

In this paper we examine whether cultural characteristics lead to different emotion expressions whilst watching tourist destination ads via digital media, and thus, ads might be perceived differently depending on the country of origin of the viewer. To test this assumption, participants from two different countries, located on two different continents, Austria/Europe, and Colombia/South America, are exposed to a destination ad. Their faces are recorded and post-processing analysis on the recorded videos using the AFFDEX algorithm, that is capable of inferring emotions based on the facial action coding system (FACS), is conducted. Valence scores are compared among the viewers of the two countries over the time span of the whole commercial, and subpopulation differences of basic emotions (joy, surprise, anger, sadness, disgust, fear, and contempt) are explored using time series clustering along with optimizations for the dynamic time warping (DTW) distance. Screening sequences in this way reveals insight on the emotional reactions of different viewer groups. The findings instruct tourism marketers on how to fit the targeted emotions elicited by tourist destination advertising with various cultural settings.
Complexity in tame quantum theories
Authors: Grimm Thomas W. , Schlechter Lorenz , van Vliet Mick
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Inspired by the notion that physical systems can contain only a finite amount of information or complexity, we introduce a framework that allows for quantifying the amount of logical information needed to specify a function or set. We then apply this methodology to a variety of physical systems and derive the complexity of parameter-dependent physical observables and coupling functions appearing in effective Lagrangians. In order to implement these ideas, it is essential to consider physical theories that can be defined in an o-minimal structure. O-minimality, a concept from mathematical logic, encapsulates a tameness principle. It was recently argued that this property is inherent to many known quantum field theories and is linked to the UV completion of the theory. To assign a complexity to each statement in these theories one has to further constrain the allowed o-minimal structures. To exemplify this, we show that many physical systems can be formulated using Pfaffian o-minimal structures, which have a well-established notion of complexity. More generally, we propose adopting sharply o-minimal structures, recently introduced by Binyamini and Novikov, as an overarching framework to measure complexity in quantum theories.
Heavy quark transverse momentum dependent fragmentation
Authors: Dai Lin , Kim Chul , Leibovich Adam K.
Published: May 2024

Abstract

In this paper, we investigate the heavy quark (HQ) mass effects on the transverse momentum dependent fragmentation function (TMDFF). We first calculate the one-loop TMDFF initiated by a heavy quark. We then investigate the HQ TMDFF in the limit where the transverse momentum, q⊥ is small compared to the heavy quark mass, q⊥ ≪ m and also in the opposite limit where q⊥ ≫ m. As applications of the HQ TMDFF, we study the HQ transverse momentum dependent jet fragmentation function, where the heavy quark fragments into a jet containing a heavy hadron, and we investigate a heavy hadron’s transverse momentum dependent distribution with respect to the thrust axis in e+e− collisions.
Two-loop integrals of half-BPS six-point functions on a line
Authors: Rodrigues Ricardo
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We evaluated all two-loop conformal integrals of scalar half-BPS six-point functions in $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 SYM restricted to a configuration where all points lie on a line. Moreover, we also computed some of these integrals in the kinematical limit where adjacent points become null-separated. Our results can serve as cross-checks for future works which obtain these integrals for general kinematics or by different methods such as integrability.
Field redefinitions and infinite field anomalous dimensions
Authors: Manohar Aneesh V. , Pagès Julie , Nepveu Jasper Roosmale
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Field redefinitions are commonly used to reduce the number of operators in the Lagrangian by removing redundant operators and transforming to a minimal operator basis. We give a general argument that such field redefinitions, while leaving the S-matrix invariant and consequently finite, lead not only to infinite Green’s functions, but also to infinite field anomalous dimensions γϕ. These divergences cannot be removed by counterterms without reintroducing redundant operators.
Chronische Rhinosinusitis mit Polyposis nasi
Authors: Strauss J. , Lochbaum R. , Hoffmann T. K. , Mayer B. , Appel H. , Hahn J.
Published: May 2024

Hintergrund

Die chronische Rhinosinusitis mit Polyposis nasi (CRSwNP) wird zunehmend als multifaktorielle inflammatorische Erkrankung verstanden, deren Therapieprinzipien in den vergangenen Jahren größeren Veränderungen unterlagen. Neben operativen Maßnahmen werden topische und systemische Steroide sowie eine adaptive Acetylsalicylsäure(ASS)-Desaktivierung bei entsprechenden Indikationskriterien eingesetzt. Seit 2019 ergänzen 3 spezifische Antikörper das therapeutische Portfolio.

Methoden

Es erfolgte eine retrospektive Auswertung aller Patienten, die in den Jahren 2007 und 2008 (Kollektiv A) sowie 2017 und 2018 (Kollektiv B) erstmalig aufgrund einer CRSwNP ambulant vorstellig wurden, bis inklusive Juni 2023.

Ergebnisse

Der klinische Verlauf von 463 Patienten (Durchschnittsalter: 49,1 Jahre; Spannbreite: 5–82 Jahre, 65,9 % männlich) wurde in die Auswertung eingeschlossen. Eine vor Erstvorstellung begonnene konservative Behandlung mit nasalen Kortikosteroiden wurde in Kollektiv B häufiger durchgeführt (Kollektiv A 43,9 % vs. Kollektiv B 72,2 %). Bei 278 der 463 Patienten (60 %; A: 62 %, B: 58 %) erfolgte nach Erstvorstellung mindestens eine Nasennebenhöhlenoperation. Bei 101 Patienten (36,3 %) davon kam es nach einer Operation im weiteren Verlauf im Mittel nach 2,4 Jahren zu einem behandlungsbedürftigen Polyposisrezidiv. Die Indikation zur ASS-Provokation/-Desaktivierung wurde im Kollektiv B seltener gestellt, nicht zuletzt aufgrund der hohen Abbruchrate (mindestens 38 %) der Erhaltungstherapie. Bei 16 Patienten der Gesamtkohorte (3,5 %, A: n = 8, B: n = 8) war bei Auftreten des Rezidivs inzwischen die Einstellung auf eine Therapie mit einem Antikörper erfolgt.

Schlussfolgerung

Ein stufenweises leitlinienkonformes Vorgehen ist sinnvoll. Der systemische Einsatz von Antikörpern bei therapieresistenten CRSwNP-Verläufen stellt eine verhältnismäßig neue Behandlungsoption dar, welche die relativ nebenwirkungsreiche und compliancearme ASS-Desaktivierung reduzieren wird.
The effect of surface roughness on the performance of 3D printed surface plasmon resonance sensors for refractive index measurements
Authors: Saitta Lorena , Celano Giovanni , Tosto Claudio , Arcadio Francesco , Zeni Luigi , Sergi Claudia , Cennamo Nunzio , Cicala Gianluca
Published: May 2024

In this study, a polymer-based surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensor for refractive index measurements was designed and manufactured via inkjet 3D printing; then, it was optically characterized. Next, it was investigated how the surface finish of the 3D printed optical waveguide affects the sensor performance, i.e., its sensitivity. More in detail, it was studied how the surface roughness changes with the placement of the 3D printed items on the building platform. To achieve this purpose, a Phase I distribution-free quality monitoring analysis of the selected manufacturing process was implemented for a small pilot production run. The aim was to check the stability of surface roughness versus the placement of the 3D printed parts on the building platform. The 3D printed sensor’s surface roughness was assessed through a profilometry study. In particular, the surface roughness was determined for the core of the optical waveguide used to excite the SPR phenomena. Furthermore, the SPR sensors were optically characterized to find the existing relationship between their sensitivity and the considered quality of surface finish. In particular, by varying the surface roughness of the used waveguide, the light scattering in the waveguide changes, and the SPR sensitivity changes too, similarly to the light-diffusing fibers covered by gold nanofilms where the guided light is scattered through a plurality of voids distributed in the core. The procedure followed to investigate the sensor roughness, and establishing their performance enabled the optimal operative range for their application in practice to be identified. Finally, a better knowledge of the 3D printing manufacturing process has been achieved to improve quality of surface finish.
Ecological implications and seasonal variability of grazing by marine copepods on phytoplankton: comparison between Acartia omorii and A. steueri in Jangmok Bay, Korea
Authors: Choi Seo Yeol , Lee Eun Hye , Jang Min-Chul , Seo Min Ho , Soh Ho Young
Published: May 2024

The grazing impacts of two Acartia species (Acartia omorii and A. steueri) on size-fractionated phytoplankton biomass were measured in Jangmok Bay, Korea (34°59′37.8" N, 128°40′28.2'' E) from January to May 2015. Total chlorophyll (Chl-a) concentrations ranged from 0.66 to 5.18 µg L−1, and micro-phytoplankton (> 20 µm) comprised up to 66% (range, 10.5–65.6%) of the total pigment. The total abundance of Acartia species ranged from 267 to 5931 ind. m−3, and these copepods accounted for 20.8 to 88.0% of the total copepod abundance. The ingestion rates of A. steueri (r2 = 0.904, P = 0.013) and A. omorii (r2 = 0.239, P = 0.046) showed a high correlation with micro-phytoplankton. The average grazing impact of Acartia species on phytoplankton biomass was approximately 6.8 ± 11.8% (range, 0.1–69.0%). Temperature–salinity (T–S) diagram analysis revealed distinct environmental preferences for each species; A. omorii preferred a broader temperature range of 6.2 to 17.1 °C and a salinity range of 31.8 to 33.5, whereas A. steueri was more restricted, preferring temperatures between 6.5 and 12.8 °C and a salinity range of 32.2 to 33.5. These findings not only contribute to our understanding of the ecological roles of these copepod species in marine ecosystems but also highlight the importance of continuous research regarding the mechanisms driving their coexistence and interaction with the coastal food web.
Morphological insights into the three-dimensional complexity of rhodolith beds
Authors: Cabrito Andrea , de Juan Silvia , Hinz Hilmar , Maynou Francesc
Published: May 2024

The ecological importance of rhodolith beds stems from their role as structurally complex three-dimensional habitat formed by free-living red calcareous algae. Their structural singularity is due to the great variety of complex and branching morphologies exhibited by rhodoliths that create interstitial spaces and increase their surface area. This increases the ecological niches for cryptofauna and provide refuge for a high number of organisms, which is why rhodolith beds are considered biodiversity hotspots. In this work, we studied a rhodolith bed located in the Menorca Channel, formed by several species of red calcareous algae that exhibit a great variety of morphologies and form an extensive and heterogeneous habitat. This study explored the morphological diversity of the rhodolith bed, comparing the ‘Core Habitat’ (within the center of the bed with the highest densities of rhodoliths) with the boundaries or ‘Adjacent Habitat’ where rhodolith density was lower. Our results show that all rhodolith growth forms (branched, pralines and boxwork) in the Core Habitat had higher interstitial space and were larger than the ones from adjacent zones. Moreover, we explored the three-dimensional techniques to study the morphological characteristics that have historically been studied in two dimensions. This study contributes to the knowledge of morphological diversity in well-preserved rhodolith beds from continental shelves in the western Mediterranean Sea and reinforces the use of three-dimensional measurements, specifically the interstitial space of branched rhodoliths, to provide more accurate data on habitat complexity.
The Fragility of Statistical Findings in Cervical Disc Arthroplasty: a Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Megafu Emmanuel C. , Megafu Michael N. , Nguyen Janet T. , Du Jour Elisabeth Point , Bronson Wesley H. , Lin James D. , Hecht Andrew C. , Parisien Robert L.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study employs both the fragility index (FI) and fragility quotient (FQ) to assess the level of robustness in the cervical disc arthroplasty (CDA) literature. We hypothesize that dichotomous outcomes involving CDA would exhibit statistical vulnerability.

Methods

A PubMed search was conducted to evaluate dichotomous data for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in CDA literature from 2000 to 2023. The FI of each outcome was calculated through the reversal of a single outcome event until significance was reversed. The FQ was calculated by dividing each fragility index by the study sample size. The interquartile range (IQR) was also calculated for the FI and FQ.

Results

Of the 1561 articles screened, 111 met the search criteria, with 35 RCTs evaluating CDA included for analysis. Six hundred and ninety-three outcome events with 130 significant (P < 0.05) outcomes and 563 nonsignificant (P ≥ 0.05) outcomes were identified. The overall FI and FQ for all 693 outcomes were 5 (IQR 3–7) and 0.019 (IQR 0.011–0.043). Fragility analysis of statistically significant outcomes and nonsignificant outcomes both revealed an FI of 5. All of the studies reported loss to follow-up (LTF) data where 65.7% (23) did not report or reported an LTF greater or equal to 5.

Conclusions

The literature regarding CDA RCTs lacks statistical robustness and may misrepresent the conclusions with the sole use of the P value. By implementing the FI and FQ along with the P value, we believe the interpretation and contextualization of the clinical data surrounding CDA will be better understood.
Personality traits and symptoms of anxiety and depression in patients with primary vitreous floaters
Authors: Senra Hugo , Ali Zaria , Aslam Tariq , Patton Niall
Published: May 2024

Purpose

We investigated personality traits and symptoms of anxiety and depression in patients with primary vitreous floaters.

Methods

A U.K. sample of adult patients (> 18 years old) with vitreous floaters of a minimum of three months severe enough to seek a consultation was assessed for personality traits (The Big Five Inventory (BFI)), symptoms of depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9), and symptoms of anxiety (Generalized Anxiety Disorder Questionnaire-7).

Results

149 patients participated in the study. Compared to the general population, our sample had a significantly increased score in the domain of BFI-neuroticism (3.27 vs 2.97, ρ < 0.0001, d = 0.38) and reduced score in the domain of extraversion (2.97 vs 3.24, ρ < 0.0001, d = 0.33). Female patients scored significantly higher than male patients on BFI-neuroticism (ρ = 0.01), and on BFI-agreeableness (ρ = 0.01). Age was positively correlated with BFI-Conscientiousness (r = 0.19, ρ = 0.02) and with BFI-Agreeableness (r = 0.20, ρ = 0.01). 36% of our sample had moderate to severe symptoms of depression, and 43% had moderate to severe symptoms of anxiety.

Conclusions

Our study highlights the underlying psychological traits of patients with severe vitreous floaters and particular mental health needs that deserve further consideration by ophthalmological and vision science clinicians.
Genotype and clinical phenotype of children with Marfan syndrome in Southeastern Anatolia
Authors: Karaoglan Murat , Nacarkahya Gulper , Aytac Emel Hatun , Keskin Mehmet
Published: May 2024

The cardinal phenotypic hallmarks of Marfan syndrome (MFS) include cardiac, ocular, and skeletal abnormalities. Since the clinical phenotype of MFS is highly heterogeneous, with certain symptoms appearing as children age, the diagnostic process and establishing a genotype-phenotype association in childhood MFS can be challenging. The lack of sufficient childhood studies also makes it difficult to interpret the subject. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between clinical symptoms used as diagnostic criteria and FBN1 variations in children with MFS. This study investigated the relationships between genotypes and phenotypes in 131 children suspected of having Marfan syndrome (MFS). Diagnosis of MFS was made according to the revised Ghent nosology. FBN1 variants were categorized based on exon regions, type of variant, and pathogenicity classes. These FBN1 variants were then correlated with the clinical manifestations including cardiovascular, ocular, facial, and skeletal abnormalities. Out of the children, 43 were diagnosed with MFS. FBN1 variant was identified in 32 (74.4%) of the MFS children. MFS diagnosis could not be made in five (15.6%) FBN1 variant-positive children. The most common cardinal finding is cardiac anomalies n = 38 (88.3%). The most common FBN1 pathogenic variant was c.1786 T > C/p.Cys596Arg n = 4 (12.5%). The distribution of pathogenic variants was as follows: 29 (90.6%) missense, 2 (6.3%) frameshift, and 1 (3.1%) nonsense. The numbers of AD and EL of the variant-positive children were 16 (50%) and 14 (43.7%), respectively. Ocular abnormalities were more common in children with FBN1-positive MFS (p = 0.009). There was no difference in the number of cardiac abnormalities between FBN1-positive and FBN1-negative MFS patients (p = 0.139).

   Conclusion: This study examines the relationship between FBN1 variants and clinical features used as diagnostic criteria in MFS children. The findings emphasize the importance of long-term monitoring of heterogeneous clinical phenotypes and bioinformatic reanalysis in determining the genotype-phenotype relationship in children, as MFS symptoms can vary with age.

What is Known:• Marfan syndrome has highly variable phenotypic heterogeneity.• The genotype-phenotype relationship in childhood Marfan syndrome is not clear enough due to the variation in the time of onset of the findings.

What is New:• This article provides regional data for the field of research on genotype-phenotype relationships in childhood Marfan syndrome.• Long-term follow-up of clinical findings and bioinformatics reanalysis is an important requirement for a well-established genotype-phenotype relationship in childhood Marfan syndrome.
Germline findings in cancer predisposing genes from a small cohort of chordoma patients
Authors: Raygada Margarita , John Liny , Liu Anne , Schultz Julianne , Thomas B. J. , Bernstein Donna , Miettinen Markku , Raffeld Mark , Xi Liqiang , Tyagi Manoj , Aldape Kenneth , Glod John , Reilly Karlyne M. , Widemann Brigitte C. , Wedekind Mary Frances
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Chordoma is a rare slow-growing tumor that occurs along the length of the spinal axis and arises from primitive notochordal remnants (Stepanek et al., Am J Med Genet 75:335–336, 1998). Most chordomas are sporadic, but a small percentage of cases are due to hereditary cancer syndromes (HCS) such as tuberous sclerosis 1 and 2 (TSC1/2), or constitutional variants in the gene encoding brachyury T (TBXT) (Pillay et al., Nat Genet 44:1185–1187, 2012; Yang et al., Nat Genet 41:1176–1178, 2009).

Purpose

The genetic susceptibility of these tumors is not well understood; there are only a small number of studies that have performed germline genetic testing in this population.

Methods

We performed germline genetic in chordoma patients using genomic DNA extracted by blood or saliva.

Conclusion

We report here a chordoma cohort of 24 families with newly found germline genetic mutations in cancer predisposing genes. We discuss implications for genetic counseling, clinical management, and universal germline genetic testing for cancer patients with solid tumors.
Parallel Chords: an audio-visual analytics design for parallel coordinates
Authors: Elmquist Elias , Enge Kajetan , Rind Alexander , Navarra Carlo , Höldrich Robert , Iber Michael , Bock Alexander , Ynnerman Anders , Aigner Wolfgang , Rönnberg Niklas
Published: May 2024

One of the commonly used visualization techniques for multivariate data is the parallel coordinates plot. It provides users with a visual overview of multivariate data and the possibility to interactively explore it. While pattern recognition is a strength of the human visual system, it is also a strength of the auditory system. Inspired by the integration of the visual and auditory perception in everyday life, we introduce an audio-visual analytics design named Parallel Chords combining both visual and auditory displays. Parallel Chords lets users explore multivariate data using both visualization and sonification through the interaction with the axes of a parallel coordinates plot. To illustrate the potential of the design, we present (1) prototypical data patterns where the sonification helps with the identification of correlations, clusters, and outliers, (2) a usage scenario showing the sonification of data from non-adjacent axes, and (3) a controlled experiment on the sensitivity thresholds of participants when distinguishing the strength of correlations. During this controlled experiment, 35 participants used three different display types, the visualization, the sonification, and the combination of these, to identify the strongest out of three correlations. The results show that all three display types enabled the participants to identify the strongest correlation — with visualization resulting in the best sensitivity. The sonification resulted in sensitivities that were independent from the type of displayed correlation, and the combination resulted in increased enjoyability during usage.
In-vitro effects of novel periodontal scalers with a planar ultrasonic piezoelectric transducer on periodontal biofilm removal, dentine surface roughness, and periodontal ligament fibroblasts adhesion
Authors: Berto Luciana Aranha , Ettmayer Johanna Blanda , Stutzer Diego , Nietzsche Sandor , Niederhauser Thomas , Burger Juergen , Sculean Anton , Eick Sigrun , Hofmann Martin
Published: May 2024

Objectives

To compare ultrasonic scaler prototypes based on a planar piezoelectric transducer with different working frequencies featuring a titanium (Ti-20, Ti-28, and Ti-40) or stainless steel (SS-28) instrument, with a commercially available scaler (com-29) in terms of biofilm removal and reformation, dentine surface roughness and adhesion of periodontal fibroblasts.

Materials and methods

A periodontal multi-species biofilm was formed on specimens with dentine slices. Thereafter specimens were instrumented with scalers in a periodontal pocket model or left untreated (control). The remaining biofilms were quantified and allowed to reform on instrumented dentine slices. In addition, fibroblasts were seeded for attachment evaluation after 72 h of incubation. Dentine surface roughness was analyzed before and after instrumentation.

Results

All tested instruments reduced the colony-forming unit (cfu) counts by about 3 to 4 log10 and the biofilm quantity (each p < 0.01 vs. control), but with no statistically significant difference between the instrumented groups. After 24-hour biofilm reformation, no differences in cfu counts were observed between any groups, but the biofilm quantity was about 50% in all instrumented groups compared to the control. The attachment of fibroblasts on instrumented dentine was significantly higher than on untreated dentine (p < 0.05), with the exception of Ti-20. The dentine surface roughness was not affected by any instrumentation.

Conclusions

The planar piezoelectric scaler prototypes are able to efficiently remove biofilm without dentine surface alterations, regardless of the operating frequency or instrument material.

Clinical relevance

Ultrasonic scalers based on a planar piezoelectric transducer might be an alternative to currently available ultrasonic scalers.
Pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF) as a valid tool in orthognathic surgery to reduce post-operative pain and swelling: a prospective study
Authors: Friscia Marco , Abbate Vincenzo , De Fazio Gianluca Renato , Sani Lorenzo , Spinelli Raffaele , Troise Stefania , Bonavolontà Paola , Committeri Umberto , Califano Luigi , Orabona Giovanni Dell’Aversana
Published: May 2024

Purpose

PEMF (pulsed electromagnetic fields) founds application in several medical fields to accelerate bone wounds healing and to reduce inflammation. The aim of our study was to evaluate the effectiveness of PEMF in reducing postoperative swelling and pain in patients undergoing orthognathic surgery.

Methods

A prospective observational monocentric study was conducted on a sample of 30 patients undergone to orthognathic surgery in Maxillofacial Surgery Unit of University of Naples Federico II. The patients who followed these inclusion criteria were enrolled in the study: age ≥ 18 years, Class III malocclusion, Surgical procedure of Le Fort I osteotomy + Bilateral Sagittal Split Osteotomy (BSSO), Written informed consent. Patients were divided into two groups: Group SD) postoperative standard treatment with medical therapy and cryotherapy, Group SD + PEMF) postoperative standard therapy + PEMF. Each patient underwent a 3D facial scan, at one (1d) and four (4d) days after surgery to compare the swelling reduction. The pain score was assessed through VAS score and analgesics administration amount.

Results

In SD + PEMF group, the facial volume reduction between 1d and 4d scan was on average 56.2 ml (6.23%), while in SD group, it was 23.6 ml (2.63%). The difference between the two groups was 3.6% (p = 0.0168). VAS pain values were significantly higher in SD group compared to SD + PEMF group in the second day after surgery (P = 0.021) and in the total 4 days (P = 0.008).

Conclusions

Our data suggest that PEMF is valid tool to promote faster postoperative swelling and pain reduction in patients undergoing orthognathic surgery.
Deleterious effects of the endosymbiont Rickettsiella viridis in Myzus persicae are environmentally dependent
Authors: Ross Perran A. , Tyrilos Michail C. , Durugkar Neha , Gill Alex , de Jonge Nadieh , Yang Qiong , Gu Xinyue , Hoffmann Ary A. , Kristensen Torsten N.
Published: May 2024

Endosymbionts living within insect cells can modify host fitness and could provide new tools for pest control. The endosymbiont Rickettsiella viridis has been transferred experimentally into the green peach aphid, Myzus persicae, a globally important agricultural pest. This Rickettsiella spreads via vertical and horizontal transmission and induces host fitness costs which could potentially suppress pest populations. Endosymbiont prevalence can fluctuate in natural populations, and it is important to identify factors that contribute to their spread or loss. Here, we explore the effects of Rickettsiella infection when aphids are reared on eight different host plants or exposed to thermal, starvation and desiccation stresses. Rickettsiella infection reduced M. persicae fecundity and longevity across all host plants, but the magnitude of costs varied among host plants and generations. Rickettsiella was horizontally transmitted and spread in caged populations at initial ratios of 1:2 Rickettsiella (+): Rickettsiella (−) on all host plants, but with limited long-term persistence under cycling 20–30 °C. We also identified temperature-dependent costs of Rickettsiella infection on heat knockdown time, chill coma recovery, and starvation tolerance. Finally, we present evidence that Rickettsiella infection reduces host activity levels under heat stress. Our results suggest that Rickettsiella infections induce a variety of deleterious effects but with complex environment-dependent interactions. This work helps understand ecological conditions that enhance or limit the spread of these endosymbionts in aphid populations.
Impact of Tissue Damage and Hemodynamics on Restenosis Following Percutaneous Transluminal Angioplasty: A Patient-Specific Multiscale Model
Authors: Corti Anna , Marradi Matilde , Çelikbudak Orhon Cemre , Boccafoschi Francesca , Büchler Philippe , Rodriguez Matas Jose F. , Chiastra Claudio
Published: May 2024

Multiscale agent-based modeling frameworks have recently emerged as promising mechanobiological models to capture the interplay between biomechanical forces, cellular behavior, and molecular pathways underlying restenosis following percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA). However, their applications are mainly limited to idealized scenarios. Herein, a multiscale agent-based modeling framework for investigating restenosis following PTA in a patient-specific superficial femoral artery (SFA) is proposed. The framework replicates the 2-month arterial wall remodeling in response to the PTA-induced injury and altered hemodynamics, by combining three modules: (i) the PTA module, consisting in a finite element structural mechanics simulation of PTA, featuring anisotropic hyperelastic material models coupled with a damage formulation for fibrous soft tissue and the element deletion strategy, providing the arterial wall damage and post-intervention configuration, (ii) the hemodynamics module, quantifying the post-intervention hemodynamics through computational fluid dynamics simulations, and (iii) the tissue remodeling module, based on an agent-based model of cellular dynamics. Two scenarios were explored, considering balloon expansion diameters of 5.2 and 6.2 mm. The framework captured PTA-induced arterial tissue lacerations and the post-PTA arterial wall remodeling. This remodeling process involved rapid cellular migration to the PTA-damaged regions, exacerbated cell proliferation and extracellular matrix production, resulting in lumen area reduction up to 1-month follow-up. After this initial reduction, the growth stabilized, due to the resolution of the inflammatory state and changes in hemodynamics. The similarity of the obtained results to clinical observations in treated SFAs suggests the potential of the framework for capturing patient-specific mechanobiological events occurring after PTA intervention.
Use of ultrasound and MRI to stage the axilla for breast cancer before and after neoadjuvant chemotherapy prior to targeted sentinel lymphadenectomy
Authors: Brabender Danielle , Ballard April , Kim Sean , Hovanessian-Larsen Linda , Sener Stephen F.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Prior data from this Center demonstrated that for patients who had biopsy-proven axillary metastases, were ycN0 after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC), and had a wire-directed (targeted) sentinel lymphadenectomy (WD-SLND), 60% were node negative. The hypothesis of this study was that results of axillary imaging either before or after NAC would be predictive of final pathologic status after WD-SLND.

Methods

For patients treated with NAC between 2015 and 2023, ultrasound and MRI images of the axilla were retrospectively reviewed by radiologists specializing in breast imaging, who were blinded to the surgical and pathology results.

Results

Of 113 patients who fit the clinical criteria, 66 (58%) were ypN0 at WD-SLND and 34 (30%) had a pathologic complete response to NAC. There was no correlation between the number of abnormal lymph nodes on pre-NAC ultrasound or MRI imaging and the final pathologic status of the lymph nodes. The positive predictive value (PPV) of abnormal post-NAC axillary imaging was 48% for ultrasound and 53% for MRI. The negative predictive value (NPV) for normal post-NAC axillary imaging was 67% for ultrasound and 68% for MRI.

Conclusion

The results of axillary imaging were not adequate to identify lymph nodes after NAC that were persistently pathologically node positive or those which had become pathologically node negative.
Exosomal YB-1 facilitates ovarian restoration by MALAT1/miR-211-5p/FOXO3 axis
Authors: Zhang Mengxue , Xing Jie , Zhao Shijie , Lu Minjun , Liu Yueqin , Lin Li , Gao Wujiang , Chen Lu , Li Wenxin , Shang Junyu , Zhou Jiamin , Yin Xinming , Zhu Xiaolan
Published: May 2024

Premature ovarian failure (POF) affects many adult women less than 40 years of age and leads to infertility. Mesenchymal stem cells-derived small extracellular vesicles (MSCs-sEVs) are attractive candidates for ovarian function restoration and folliculogenesis for POF due to their safety and efficacy, however, the key mediator in MSCs-sEVs that modulates this response and underlying mechanisms remains elusive. Herein, we reported that YB-1 protein was markedly downregulated in vitro and in vivo models of POF induced with H2O2 and CTX respectively, accompanied by granulosa cells (GCs) senescence phenotype. Notably, BMSCs-sEVs transplantation upregulated YB-1, attenuated oxidative damage-induced cellular senescence in GCs, and significantly improved the ovarian function of POF rats, but that was reversed by YB-1 depletion. Moreover, YB-1 showed an obvious decline in serum and GCs in POF patients. Mechanistically, YB-1 as an RNA-binding protein (RBP) physically interacted with a long non-coding RNA, MALAT1, and increased its stability, further, MALAT1 acted as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) to elevate FOXO3 levels by sequestering miR-211-5p to prevent its degradation, leading to repair of ovarian function. In summary, we demonstrated that BMSCs-sEVs improve ovarian function by releasing YB-1, which mediates MALAT1/miR-211-5p/FOXO3 axis regulation, providing a possible therapeutic target for patients with POF.
Full-Scale Fire Experiments on Cross-Laminated Timber Residential Enclosures Featuring Different Lining Protection Configurations
Authors: Hopkin Danny , Węgrzyński Wojciech , Gorska Carmen , Spearpoint Michael , Bielawski Jakub , Krenn Harald , Sleik Tim , Blondeau Renaud , Stapf Gordian
Published: May 2024

The adoption of timber, specifically cross-laminated timber (CLT), as a primary construction material is gaining traction due to its carbon sequestration capabilities, environmental advantages, and potential for precision manufacturing. However, the combustibility of wood raises legitimate concerns about fire safety in timber-based residential buildings. This paper investigates the fire performance of timber in a residential context, attempting to fill knowledge gaps and outline strategies for improving fire robustness in timber-built dwellings. Through comprehensive experimental studies on residential-type enclosures constructed with CLT panels, this research explores different configurations and the effects of varying degrees of non-combustible protective lining. The findings underscore the significance of considering timber surface exposure and adopting effective encapsulation strategies in CLT buildings. It has been estimated that the exposure of timber walls leads to a proportional increase in heat release rate, corresponding to the area of exposed timber surfaces and their charring rates. Consequently, the external flame has a larger projection, resulting in a much greater heat flux to the façade. Furthermore, threshold conditions for initial flaming self-extinguishment of timber defined in literature of 44.5 ± 1.2 kW/m2 have been found to be applicable to the experiments conducted in this research. Finally, it has been observed that partial encapsulation, where the protective lining will likely fall off during a fire, may hinder rather than increase the likelihood of self-extinguishment. This work contributes towards a nuanced understanding of fire dynamics in timber structures, offering insights for safer and more effective design strategies for CLT-based construction.
Temperedness of locally symmetric spaces: the product case
Authors: Weich Tobias , Wolf Lasse L.
Published: May 2024

Let $$X=X_1\times X_2$$

X
=

X
1

×

X
2

be a product of two rank one symmetric spaces of non-compact type and $$\Gamma $$
Γ
a torsion-free discrete subgroup in $$G_1\times G_2$$

G
1

×

G
2

. We show that the spectrum of $$\Gamma \backslash (X_1\times X_2)$$

Γ
\
(

X
1

×

X
2

)

is related to the asymptotic growth of $$\Gamma $$
Γ
in the two directions defined by the two factors. We obtain that $$L^2(\Gamma \backslash (G_1 \times G_2))$$

L
2

(
Γ
\

(

G
1

×

G
2

)

)

is tempered for a large class of $$\Gamma $$
Γ
.
Targeted Demethylation of FOXP3-TSDR Enhances the Suppressive Capacity of STAT6-deficient Inducible T Regulatory Cells
Authors: Arroyo-Olarte Rubén D. , Flores-Castelán Juan C. , Armas-López Leonel , Escobedo Galileo , Terrazas Luis I. , Ávila-Moreno Federico , Leon-Cabrera Sonia
Published: May 2024

In vitro induced T regulatory cells (iTregs) are promising for addressing inflammation-driven diseases. However, current protocols for the generation and expansion of iTregs fail to induce extensive demethylation of the Treg-specific demethylated region (TSDR) within the FOXP3 gene, recognized as the master regulator for regulatory T cells (Tregs). This deficiency results in the rapid loss of Foxp3 expression and an unstable regulatory phenotype. Nevertheless, inhibition of STAT6 signaling effectively stabilizes Foxp3 expression in iTregs. Thus, this study aimed to develop a protocol combining epigenetic editing with STAT6 deficiency to improve iTregs’ ability to maintain stable suppressive function and a functional phenotype. Our findings demonstrate that the combination of STAT6 deficiency (STAT6-/-) with targeted demethylation of the TSDR using a CRISPR-TET1 tool leads to extensive demethylation of FOXP3-TSDR. Demethylation in STAT6-/- iTregs was associated with enhanced expression of Foxp3 and suppressive markers such as CTLA-4, PD-1, IL-10, and TGF-β. Furthermore, the edited STAT6-/- iTregs exhibited an increased capacity to suppress CD8+ and CD4+ lymphocytes and could more efficiently impair Th1-signature gene expression compared to conventional iTregs. In conclusion, the deactivation of STAT6 and TSDR-targeted demethylation via CRISPR-TET1 is sufficient to induce iTregs with heightened stability and increased suppressive capacity, offering potential applications against inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.
Formative Evaluation of an Interactive Personalised Learning Technology to Inform Equitable Access and Inclusive Education for Children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities
Authors: Layachi Aida , Pitchford Nicola J.
Published: May 2024

In accordance with the 2030 Sustainable Development Goal for Education, to promote equitable access and inclusive education for all, it is critical to explore if educational technologies can be used effectively by children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). It has been argued that educational technologies need to be tailored to the individual needs of children with SEND, otherwise they can create new layers of exclusion at school. The aim of this study was to examine the suitability of an interactive, personalised, educational technology, designed to support the learning of foundational skills, that is being introduced in several countries worldwide, for use by children with SEND. A participatory formative evaluation was conducted with ten academic experts in SEND. Each expert interacted with the technology individually, then gave written feedback through a semi-structured review form, before engaging with the other experts in an online group discussion. Qualitative data were analysed by reflexive thematic analysis. Six themes emerged pertaining to the strengths of the educational technology and areas of weakness where improvements are needed to support children with vision impairment, hearing, and functional difficulties through recommended hardware, and software updates, and by considering how the technology could be used to boost children’s motivation, and the role of the teacher in supporting children with SEND to use the technology effectively. Implications for instructional design decisions, based on research evidence, are considered for promoting equitable access and inclusive education for children with SEND through technology-supported personalised learning platforms.
Definition of Design Space for Preparation and Stability of Tramadol Hydrochloride Loaded Nanoparticles Using OFAT Experiments for Infusion in Pain Management
Authors: Yildirim Nuray , Savaser Ayhan , Esim Ozgur , Topal Gizem Ruya , Kose Ozkan Cansel , Ozkan Yalcin
Published: May 2024

This paper presents an experimental study on preparation of tramadol hydrochloride (TrH) loaded nanoparticles, and stability determination in various infusion solutions. In this study, various nanoparticle preparation parameters based on w/o/w emulsification solvent evaporation method, including stabilizer type, stabilizer concentration, polymer concentration, homogenization speed and initial drug amount were systematically tested to verify their versatility for preparing nanoparticles. Initially both particle size and encapsulation efficiency of nanoparticles were changed significantly with the change in surfactant and polymer ratio (p<0.05). However, homogenization speed only changed particle size (average size 339.3±1.8 nm for 15000 rpm, 318.9±6.4 nm for 20000 rpm and 237.2±7.8 nm for 25000 rpm) (p<0.05) and initial drug concentration is only affected the encapsulation efficiency (34.2±0.7% for 4 mg/mL and 33.2±0.9 for 1.6 mg/mL) (p<0.05). Storage at room temperature for 3 months resulted in an increase in particle size and polydispersity index. Prepared nanoparticles showed the best stability after storage at – 20 °C for in 3 months. Finally, storage of nanoparticles in various infusion solutions resulted an undesirable changes for 6% Hydroxyethyl starch in 0.9% sodium chloride injection, 10% Dextran 40 and 4% Succinyl gelatin solutions. It was shown that an appropriate delivery of TrH loaded PLGA nanoparticles as infusion can be prepared only in water for injection, 20% Mannitol, 0.9% Sodium chloride and 5% Dextrose solutions.
Secure renting by living collectively? A relational exploration of home and homemaking in rental housing cooperatives
Authors: Guity-Zapata Nestor Agustin , Stone Wendy M. , Nygaard Christian A.
Published: May 2024

In many countries, rental housing is associated with insecure occupant rights and limited control for residents and homeownership is linked with ontological security. In the literature on homemaking, ontological security comprises a set of attributes, i.e., secure occupancy, autonomy and control, but these are often bundled, or treated jointly. In this paper we draw on the lived experiences of residents in Rental Housing Cooperatives (RHC) in Honduras and Australia, and ask how the experience of ontological security in RHC is shaped by its distinct characteristics? We argue that, if the experience of ontological security can be ‘unbundled’, wellbeing in rental housing, particularly for population groups increasingly locked out of homeownerships, can be advanced through housing policy innovation that enhances these, or specific, attributes of ontological security. Methodologically the paper draws on relational thinking, interview data (n = 15) and qualitative analysis of homemaking practices within RHC in Honduras and Australia. The paper utilises a four-quadrant qualitative assessment framework for evaluating occupants’ sense of security and autonomy/control, relative to their sense of home and simply being housed. Our results suggest that secure occupancy more fundamentally underpins a sense of home, than autonomy/control. Implications for rental policy and research are considered.
Effectiveness of Trained Community Lay Workers on Glycemic Control, Knowledge, and Self-Efficacy Among Agricultural Workers with Diabetes in the Texas Panhandle
Authors: Rodriguez Anabel , Chavez Lus , Wagner Teresa , Howe Carol
Published: May 2024

Systemic health barriers, economic challenges, and lack of follow-up care exacerbate self-management of chronic diseases like diabetes among Hispanic agricultural workers. The primary objective of this pilot project was to determine the benefit of using community coaches to decrease A1C levels and increase diabetes knowledge among agricultural workers with diagnosed diabetes in the Texas Panhandle. A longitudinal study design with two phases was used to create, deliver, and evaluate a diabetes coaching program. Phase 1 was the development of the program and community coaches training (n = 4). In Phase 2, the coaches then delivered the program over 12 weeks to thirteen clients. Phase 1: All coaches were Hispanic females, 28.3 (SD 3.8) years of age, half had at most a high school education level and the other half had a vocational certification (n = 4). Mean DKQ-24 score was 54.2% (SD = 29.7) at baseline and 75.0% (SD = 31.4) after training (t (4) = 4.6, P < 0.05). We observed a very large difference between mean baseline and exit DKQ-24 scores relative to the pooled standard deviation, resulting in an effect size estimate of 0.59 indicative of a medium to large learning effect. Phase 2: Clients were Hispanic Spanish-speaking, predominantly female (55%), 44.4 (SD 6.8) years of age with at most a high school level of education (88.9%) and occupations varied from dairy farm worker (33.3%), meat processing worker (33.3%), and other agriculture or manufacturing position (33.3%). The mean SKILLD score was 40.0% (SD = 28.7) at baseline, increasing to 72.2% (SD = 25.4) at 12 weeks upon completion of the coaching program (t (9) = 2.956, P < 0.05). We observed a very large difference between mean baseline and exit SKILLD scores relative to the pooled standard deviation, resulting in an effect size estimate of 1.13 indicative of a large learning effect. The mean A1C levels at baseline screening was 8.3% (SD = 3.0) and 7.6% (SD = 3.0) at exit screening, representing a 0.7% decrease (p = 0.4730). No statistically significant differences were observed between depression (p = 0.786) or anxiety (p = 1.000) measures at baseline compared to exit. Training and coaching programs for hard-to-reach agricultural and meat processing workers must be culturally, linguistically, and literacy appropriate for both coaches and clients. The program must be feasible and sustainable, focus on empowering community members, capitalize on technological advances and persisting new-normals from the COVID-19 pandemic as well as dismantle common systemic barriers to health and understanding lived-experiences of agricultural working populations in rural regions.