bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Characteristics and Genomic Profile of Malignant Proliferating Trichilemmal Tumor: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Hanson Noah , Farmer William , Andres Matthew , Franko Jan , Le Viet
Published: November 2024

Malignant proliferating trichilemmal tumors (MPTT) are rare skin lesions arising from the outer sheath of the hair follicle root. Because of their rarity and difficulty in pathologic identification, these skin lesions are often initially misdiagnosed. After a literature review, we found initial clinical or histopathological misdiagnosis has an associated 10.4‐fold increase in recurrence and 2.18‐fold increase in deaths.
Pharmacokinetics of PP353, a formulation of linezolid for intervertebral disc administration, in patients with chronic low back pain and Modic change Type 1: A first‐in‐human, Phase 1b, open‐label, single‐dose study
Authors: Tripathi Shiva S. , Sneath Robert , Golash Aprajay , Desai Parag , McHale Duncan , Guest Sarah , Brindley Charlie , Cummings Paul , Smith Shane , Stroud Conrad , Scott Graham , Ruston Steve , Czaplewski Lloyd
Published: November 2024

Background

Bacterial infection of the intervertebral disc is difficult to treat because the tissue is usually not vascularized and systemic antibiotic therapy may not reach optimal antibacterial exposure. Here we characterize the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of PP353, a suspension of micronized linezolid, formulated for direct intervertebral disc administration.

Methods

The safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of an intradiscal administration of PP353, was assessed in Part A of a Phase 1b study and consisted of a single injection of study drug (3 mL of PP353 and 150 mg linezolid). Clinical assessment included initial safety and tolerability of PP353 with continued follow‐up for 12 months. Assessment of linezolid concentration in plasma samples enabled characterization of the pharmacokinetics. Deconvolution of systemic linezolid was used to estimate intervertebral disc linezolid concentration.

Results

Intradiscal administration of 3 mL of PP353 (linezolid 50 mg/mL) to the nucleus pulposus was well tolerated with no reported study treatment‐related severe or serious adverse events and resulted in an average geometric mean linezolid plasma Cmax of 1300 ng/mL at 7.27 h post‐administration. The linezolid plasma Cmax observed with intradiscal PP353 is approximately 10% that observed with a standard oral or iv administration of 600 mg linezolid. Pharmacokinetic deconvolution estimated that a single dose of PP353 (150 mg linezolid) provided intradiscal bactericidal concentration of linezolid for 96 h and bacteriostatic exposure for up to 120 h after dosing.

Conclusion

Intradiscal administration of 3 mL of PP353 is well‐tolerated and based on the pharmacokinetics following a single injection, a two‐dose regimen of PP353 (150 mg linezolid) on Day 1 and Day 5 ± 1 was selected to explore safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and efficacy in Part B of the Persica 002 study.
Visual explainability of 250 skin diseases viewed through the eyes of an AI‐based, self‐supervised vision transformer—A clinical perspective
Authors: Abdel Mawgoud Ramy , Posch Christian
Published: November 2024

Background

Conventional supervised deep‐learning approaches mostly focus on a small range of skin disease images. Recently, self‐supervised (SS) Vision Transformers have emerged, capturing complex visual patterns in hundreds of classes without any need for tedious image annotation.

Objectives

This study aimed to form the basis for an inexpensive and explainable AI system, targeted at the vastness of clinical skin diagnoses by comparing so‐called ‘self‐attention maps’ of an SS and a supervised ViT on 250 skin diseases—visualizations showing areas of interest for each skin disease.

Methods

Using a public data set containing images of 250 different skin diseases, one small ViT was pretrained S) for 300 epochs (=ViT‐SS), and two were fine‐tuned supervised from ImageNet‐weights for 300 epochs (=ViT‐300) and for 78 epochs due to heavier regularization (=ViT‐78), respectively. The models generated 250 self‐attention maps each. These maps were analyzed in a blinded manner using a ‘DermAttention’ score, and the models were primarily compared based on their ability to focus on disease‐relevant features.

Results

Visual analysis revealed that ViT‐SS delivered superior self‐attention‐maps. It scored a significantly higher accuracy of focusing on disease‐defining lesions (88%; confidence interval [CI] 95%: 0.840–0.920) compared to ViT‐300 (78.4%; CI 95%: 0.733–0.835; p < 0.05) and ViT‐78 (51.2%; CI 95%: 0.450–0.574; p < 0.05). It also exceeded in other subcategories of ‘DermAttention’.

Conclusions

SS pretraining did not translate to better diagnostic performance when compared to conventional supervision. However, it led to more accurate visual representations of varying skin disease images. These findings may pave the way for large‐scale, explainable computer‐aided skin diagnostic in an unfiltered clinical setting. Further research is needed to improve clinical outcomes using these visual tools.
A Finite Volume Element Scheme Modified With Second‐Order Upwind Fractional Step of Three‐Dimensional Semiconductor Device Transient Behavior and Its Convergence Analysis
Authors: Li Changfeng , Yuan Yirang , Yang Qing , Sun Tongjun
Published: November 2024

A finite volume element scheme combined with upwind fractional step differences is presented on nonuniform partition to simulate numerically three‐dimensional transient problems of semiconductor device. Its mathematical model is defined by four partial differential equations (PDEs). An elliptic equation for the potential is discretized by a conservative finite volume element. Other PDEs for the concentrations and heat are treated by upwind fractional step differences. Applying the method of finite volume element, the principle of duality, the induction hypothesis, the prior error theory of differential equations and other special techniques, we give error estimates of second‐order accuracy in ‐norm. Finally, two experimental tests are given for showing possible applications in actual problems.
Behavioral weight loss interventions in college health centers: A qualitative analysis of barriers and facilitators to implementation
Authors: Hayes Jacqueline F. , Darling Katherine E. , Tomashek Hailey , Elwy A. Rani , Wing Rena R.
Published: November 2024

Background

Emerging adults are underrepresented in standard behavioral weight loss interventions (BWLIs). Offering BWLIs in college health centers may help to address obesity in emerging adulthood by reducing student barriers associated with participation; however, implementation barriers and facilitators for health centers are unknown.

Methods

Health services center administrators and providers (n = 14) and students eligible to participate in a BWLI (n = 9, average BMI = 29.8 ± 4.2 kg/m2) participated in semi‐structured interviews. Interviews focused on the need for and appropriateness of BWLIs in health centers and perceived barriers and facilitators to their implementation.

Results

Participants generally believed that BWLIs delivered through a health center were appropriate and indicated that BWLIs would be a beneficial offering on‐campus. Facilitators of health center implementation included availability of trained health professionals, intradepartmental relationships, supportive infrastructure and resources, and in‐house planning and execution. Barriers included limited student use and knowledge of health center offerings, narrow referral/recruitment pathways related to stigma concerns, and challenges related to infrastructure, resources, and competing demands.

Conclusions

College health centers are a feasible and appropriate setting to offer BWLIs, though barriers to implementation exist. It will be important to construct a plan for implementation to address unique barriers in health centers prior to BWLI implementation.
Control design for convection‐reaction systems with storage effects and positive relative degree
Authors: Wurm Jens , Woittennek Frank
Published: November 2024

One‐dimensional distributed‐parameter systems consisting of several convection‐reaction equations, which are distributedly coupled with a reaction equation, are considered. To solve the open‐loop control problem for these kind of systems, an inversion‐based approach is proposed. Along the common characteristic projection, the system can be reduced to a single partial differential equation (PDE) whose boundary conditions (BCs) result from the particular choice of the output to be tracked. The solution of this latter equation constitutes the basis of the control design. The particular properties of the scalar boundary value problem (BVP) to be solved depend on the coupling structure of the originally given convection‐reaction system. While in most cases the output has a relative degree of zero, for practical applications a relative degree of one is of particular interest. In this case, the obtained scalar BVP which describes the internal dynamics, possesses the structure of an infinite‐dimensional differential‐algebraic equation (DAE). Within the paper, the properties of the solution of both problems are discussed from a system analytical point of view.
Elastic and acoustic properties determination of epoxy/polystyrene/nanoclay/red mud waste hybrid composites by ultrasonic method
Authors: Oral Imran , Özmeral Nimet , Ahmetli Gulnare , Guzel Hatice
Published: November 2024

Ultrasonic methods are more sensitive to defects such as voids, pores, and discontinuities that can diminish the true elastic and acoustic properties of materials compared to destructive testing. Therefore, the elastic properties and some acoustic properties of the epoxy phenol novolac modified with polystyrene (EPN‐PS) matrix‐based nano‐ and hybrid composites were determined for the first time using ultrasonic method. Montmorillonite‐type nanoclay (NC) and industrial red mud waste (RMW) at a rate of 1–4 and 15–35 wt% respectively, were used as fillers in the composite preparation. According to the results, the highest elastic coefficient values (L = 8.14 GPa, G = 1.76 GPa, K = 5.79 GPa and E = 4.80 GPa) were obtained in the EPN‐PS/NC1 (with 1 wt% NC) nanocomposite sample compared to the elastic properties of pure EPN and EPN‐PS, while the highest elastic coefficient values (L = 8.97 GPa, G = 2.19 GPa, K = 6.06 GPa, and E = 5.86 GPa) among hybrid composites (HC) were obtained for the HC35 containing 2 wt. % NC and 35 wt% RMW. Due to both its high elastic and good acoustic properties, wall panels and floors produced using HC35 hybrid composite can be used for sound insulation in noisy environments.

Highlights

First evaluation of the acoustic characteristics of epoxy phenol novolac modified with polystyrene‐nanoclay/red mud waste (EPN‐PS‐NC/RMW) composites.

NC4 with 4 wt% nanoclay showed the lowest elastic and acoustic properties.

Nanoclay ratio above 1 wt% reduces elastic and acoustic properties.

The increasing RMW ratio in hybrid composites increases elastic properties.

High elastic and acoustic properties make HC35 ideal for sound insulation.
A novel approach utilizing acoustic emission technique is proposed for predicting the burst pressure of GFRP pressure bottles
Authors: Abraham D. S. Manoj , Jabha D. F. Jingle , Joselin R.
Published: November 2024

Acoustic emission (AE) serves as a non‐destructive testing (NDT) technique with unique potential for assessing structural integrity and potentially predicting failures in pressure bottles. The authors have effectively demonstrated its applicability in predicting burst pressures of glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP) pressure bottles. In their study, five identical GFRP pressure bottles underwent pressurization cycles, and the AE data collected during these cycles was analyzed to develop a straightforward empirical relationship for predicting burst performance. This approach highlights a significant finding: impending failure can be detected with notable accuracy even when pressure levels are at 50%–60% of the maximum expected operating pressure (MEOP), with a reasonable margin of error. Notably, there exists a gap in the existing literature concerning clear methodologies for predicting burst pressures of composite pressure bottles. This methodology, however, can be extended beyond GFRP to predict the burst pressure of pressure bottles made from other material systems in real‐time.

Highlights

The composite pressure bottle failure is predicted at very low pressure.

The prediction is at a range of 50%–75% of MEOP.

To predict the burst pressure of GFRP pressure bottle an empirical formula is generated.

The empirical formula is generated using Acoustic Emission parameters.

Major AE parameters are determined from a set of GFRP pressure bottles.
Characterization of the Metabolic Proteome of Serum From Patients With Diabetic Distal Symmetric Polyneuropathy
Authors: Zheng Hangping , Gao Yue , Zhu Xiaoming , Zhang Yuanpin , Li Yujia , Sun Wanwan , Ji Lijin , Liu Xiaoxia , Zhang Jie , Lu Bin , Li Yiming , Zhang Shuo
Published: November 2024

Aims

The pathophysiological of diabetic distal symmetric polyneuropathy (DSPN) remains to be elucidated and there are no diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers for the condition. In this explorative proteomic study, metabolic proteome profiling of serum in patients with/without DSPN was analyzed. We aimed to discover proteins with different abundance ranges through proximity extension assay (PEA) technology.

Methods

Temperature quantitative sensory testing (QST) and electromyography (EMG) were used to access the small‐ and large‐fiber function of all participants, respectively. The metabolic proteome profile of serum was analyzed using PEA technology (Olink Target 96 METABOLISM panel).

Results

We evaluated serum from patients without DSPN (n = 27), with small‐fiber neuropathy (SFN, n = 25) and with mixed small‐ and large‐fiber neuropathy (MSLFN, n = 24). Fifteen proteins, which were especially related to immune response, insulin resistance, and lipid metabolism, were significantly different between patients without DSPN and with MSLFN. Besides, seven proteins, especially related to extracellular structure organization, were significantly different between serum from patients with SFN and with MSLFN. What's more, serum from patients without DSPN showed that three proteins, related to immune response, altered significantly compared to serum from patients with SFN.

Conclusions

This was the first study that characterized the metabolic proteomic profile of serum in DSPN patients by analyzing a panel of 92 metabolic proteins using PEA technology.
Combination of atmospheric and room temperature plasma and ribosome engineering techniques to enhance the antifungal activity of Bacillus megateriumL2 against Sclerotium rolfsii
Authors: Wei Long‐feng , Wang Yong‐xin , Li Zhu , Pan Hang , Xiao Yang , Sun Ran , Zhao Hao , An Tao‐tao
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Sclerotium rolfsii is an extremely destructive phytopathogenic fungus that causes significant economic losses. Biocontrol strategies utilizing antagonistic microorganisms present a promising alternative for controlling plant pathogens. Bacillus megaterium L2 has been identified as a potential microbial biocontrol agent in our previous study; however, its efficacy in controlling pathogens has yet to meet current demands. This study aims to enhance the antifungal activity of strain L2 against S. rolfsii R‐67 through a two‐round mutagenesis strategy and to preliminarily investigate the mutagenesis mechanism of the high antifungal activity mutant.

RESULTS

We obtained mutant Dr‐77 with the strongest antifungal activity against R‐67, and its cell‐free supernatant significantly reduced the infection potential of R‐67 to Amorphophallus konjac corms, which may be attributed to the antimicrobial compound phenylacetic acid (PAA), and PAA content in Dr‐77 (5.78 mg/mL) was 28.90 times higher than original strain L2. This compound exhibited strong antifungal ability against R‐67, with a half maximal effective concentration (EC50) value of 0.475 mg/mL, significantly inhibiting mycelial growth and destroying the ultrastructure of R‐67 at EC50 value. Notably, PAA also exhibited broad‐spectrum antifungal activity against six phytopathogens at EC50 value. Moreover, genome analysis revealed nine different gene mutations, including those involved in PAA biosynthesis, and the activities of prephenate dehydratase (PheA) and phenylacetaldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) in PAA biosynthesis pathway were significantly increased.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that the elevated PAA content is a primary factor contributing to the enhanced antifungal activity of Dr‐77, and that this mutagenesis strategy offers valuable guidance for the breeding of functional microbial resources. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Exploring the multifaceted nature of school inspectors' power dynamics: A comparative analysis of four quality assurance systems
Authors: Gardezi Sarah , McNamara Gerry , Brown Martin , O'Hara Joe
Published: November 2024

This research critically explores the role of school inspectors in driving improvements across diverse educational settings, focusing on the nuanced dynamics of their influence on school leaders' attitudes towards feedback. The study employs French and Raven's ‘The Bases of Social Powers’ framework to investigate the various forms of power wielded by school inspectors. The examination encompasses inspection regimes with varied approaches, ranging from high‐stakes to low‐stakes, each conferring different degrees of authority on school inspectors. Conducted in four jurisdictions—Dubai, Ireland, New Zealand and Pakistan—each characterised by distinct school quality assurance systems, the research aims to provide readers, including academicians, policy makers, quality assurance personnel and school leaders, with examples of current practices and models. Through interviews with school leaders and inspectors, the findings reveal that leaders' perceptions of inspectors' powers influence both their attitudes towards inspectors and their responses to feedback. The six bases of power—reward, coercive, legitimate, referent, expert and informational—as postulated in French and Raven's framework—are identified in the school leaders' responses and highlighted in the structural dynamics of the inspection systems under study, though at varying degrees. Notably, all forms of power hold value in influencing school leaders and driving changes in their practices. While the first three focus on regulating and evaluating school operations, the latter three foster change by inspiring and guiding school leaders. The findings underscore the need for a balanced integration of these power bases in school inspection systems, tailored to the unique contexts of every country. By shedding light on the interplay between power dynamics and school leaders' responsiveness to feedback, this research contributes valuable insights to inform the development and refinement of school inspection systems. The ultimate goal is to maximise the impact of inspections and enhance the efficacy of quality assurance systems in promoting positive change and improvement within diverse educational environments.
Sieve Maximum Likelihood Estimation of Partially Linear Transformation Models With Interval‐Censored Data
Authors: Yuan Changhui , Zhao Shishun , Li Shuwei , Song Xinyuan
Published: November 2024

Partially linear models provide a valuable tool for modeling failure time data with nonlinear covariate effects. Their applicability and importance in survival analysis have been widely acknowledged. To date, numerous inference methods for such models have been developed under traditional right censoring. However, the existing studies seldom target interval‐censored data, which provide more coarse information and frequently occur in many scientific studies involving periodical follow‐up. In this work, we propose a flexible class of partially linear transformation models to examine parametric and nonparametric covariate effects for interval‐censored outcomes. We consider the sieve maximum likelihood estimation approach that approximates the cumulative baseline hazard function and nonparametric covariate effect with the monotone splines and ‐splines, respectively. We develop an easy‐to‐implement expectation‐maximization algorithm coupled with three‐stage data augmentation to facilitate maximization. We establish the consistency of the proposed estimators and the asymptotic distribution of parametric components based on the empirical process techniques. Numerical results from extensive simulation studies indicate that our proposed method performs satisfactorily in finite samples. An application to a study on hypobaric decompression sickness suggests that the variable TR360 exhibits a significant dynamic and nonlinear effect on the risk of developing hypobaric decompression sickness.
Stabilizing Metal Halide Perovskite Films via Chemical Vapor Deposition and Cryogenic Electron Beam Patterning
Authors: Burns Randy , Chiaro Dylan , Davison Harrison , Arendse Christopher J. , King Gavin M. , Guha Suchismita
Published: November 2024

Halide perovskites are hailed as semiconductors of the 21st century. Chemical vapor deposition (CVD), a solvent‐free method, allows versatility in the growth of thin films of 3‐ and 2D organic–inorganic halide perovskites. Using CVD grown methylammonium lead iodide (MAPbI3) films as a prototype, the impact of electron beam dosage under cryogenic conditions is evaluated. With 5 kV accelerating voltage, the dosage is varied between 50 and 50000 µC cm−2. An optimum dosage of 35 000 µC cm−2 results in a significant blue shift and enhancement of the photoluminescence peak. Concomitantly, a strong increase in the photocurrent is observed. A similar electron beam treatment on chlorine incorporated MAPbI3, where chlorine is known to passivate defects, shows a blue shift in the photoluminescence without improving the photocurrent properties. Low electron beam dosage under cryogenic conditions is found to damage CVD grown 2D phenylethlyammoinum lead iodide films. Monte Carlo simulations reveal differences in electron beam interaction with 3‐ and 2D halide perovskite films.
In situ electrochemical synthesis of atomically dispersed metal sites for efficient hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Liu Tingting , Pu Zonghua , Chen Zhangsen , Wu Mingjie , Xia Yongpeng , Liu Sixiang , Chen Ning , Chen Weifeng , Zhang Lei , Chen Zhangxing , Zhang Gaixia , Sun Shuhui
Published: November 2024

The development of efficient and robust non‐Pt and low‐Pt catalysts with equivalent or even superior performance to commercial Pt‐based catalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is highly desired, but challenging, in the field of water electrolysis. Herein, we report a facile and cost‐effective in situ electrochemical approach for the synthesis of atomically dispersed metal sites including platinum (Pt), ruthenium (Ru), and palladium (Pd) on the polyaniline (PANI) support. The PANI exhibits not only high electrochemical conductivity but also efficient H+ capture from hydronium ions, leading to the formation of protonated amine groups that can be easily electrochemically reduced to H2 on atomically dispersed metal active sites. As an example, the atomically dispersed Pt sites anchored on carbon cloth‐supported PANI (PANI‐Pt/CC) demonstrate excellent activity and durability toward the HER. The mass activity of PANI‐Pt‐10/CC reaches 25 A mgPt−1, exhibiting a significant enhancement of 50‐fold compared to that of the commercial Pt/C (0.5 A mgPt−1). Therefore, this study presents a universally applicable approach for the design of atomically dispersed metal sites/conducting polymer heterostructures for highly efficient catalysts toward HER and beyond.
Hawking radiation of nonrelativistic scalars: applications to pion and axion production
Authors: Cui Hao-Ran , Tsai Yuhsin , Xu Tao
Published: November 2024

Abstract

In studying secondary gamma-ray emissions from Primordial Black Holes (PBHs), the production of scalar particles like pions and axion-like particles (ALPs) via Hawking radiation is crucial. While previous analyses assumed relativistic production, asteroid-mass PBHs, relevant to upcoming experiments like AMEGO-X, likely produce pions and ALPs non-relativistically when their masses exceed 10 MeV. To account for mass dependence in Hawking radiation, we revisit the greybody factors for massive scalars from Schwarzschild black holes, revealing significant mass corrections to particle production rates compared to the projected AMEGO-X sensitivity. We highlight the importance of considering non-relativistic π0 production in interpreting PBH gamma-ray signals, essential for determining PBH properties. Additionally, we comment on the potential suppression of pion production due to form factor effects when producing extended objects via Hawking radiation. We also provide an example code for calculating the Hawking radiation spectrum of massive scalar particles "Image missing".
Axion species scale and axion weak gravity conjecture-like bound
Authors: Seo Min-Seok
Published: November 2024

Abstract

As a cutoff scale of quantum gravity, the species scale can be defined by the scale at which the perturbativity of the non-renormalizable gravitational interaction begins to break down. Since it is determined by the number of species in the effective field theory, we can find the close connection to the distance conjecture, which predicts the lowering of the cutoff at the asymptotic limit of the moduli space caused by the descent of a tower of states from UV. Meanwhile, the same kind of the cutoff scale can be obtained from any non-renormalizable interaction, in particular the interaction between the axion and the gauge field through the θF ∧ F term. Demanding this ‘axion species scale’ not to exceed the gravitational species scale, we obtain the bound (8π2/g2)f ≲ MPl. This is quite similar to the axion weak gravity conjecture bound, but can be applied to any gauge as well as the string interactions which are relevant to towers of states. We also investigate the implications of the (axion) species scale and the axion weak gravity conjecture-like bound by considering the Peccei-Quinn charge reduction of black hole through the interaction between black hole and the string or wormhole.
Fluctuation theorems, quantum channels and gravitational algebras
Authors: Cirafici Michele
Published: November 2024

Abstract

In this note we study nonequilibrium fluctuations in gravitational algebras within de Sitter space. An essential aspect of this study is quantum measurement theory, which allows us to access the dynamical fluctuations of observables via a two-point measurement scheme. Using this formalism, we establish specific fluctuation theorems. Additionally, we demonstrate that quantum channels are represented by subfactors, using the relationship between measurement theory and quantum channels. We also comment on implementing a quantum channel using Jones’ theory of subfactors.
Psychiatriekritik auf die Straße bringen. Mad Pride-Paraden und Blaue Karawane als Arbeit an der Multiplizität
Authors: Ramm Ronda , Binder Beate , Seeck Francis
Published: November 2024

Im Mittelpunkt dieses Beitrags stehen performative Artikulationen von Psychiatriekritik bei Demonstrationen: Wir betrachten Mad Pride-Paraden, die in verschiedenen deutschen Städten seit 2013 durchgeführt werden, in Relation zu Aktionen der Bremer „Blauen Karawane“ – einer Bewegung, die in den 1980er Jahren im Zuge der Auflösung einer psychiatrischen Großklinik entstand. Obwohl sie in unterschiedlichen zeitlich-lokalen Kontexten situiert sind, setzen beide auf Formen des Straßenprotests, um die Grenzziehung zwischen „normal“ und „verrückt“ infrage zu stellen und die gleichberechtigte Anerkennung psychischer Alterität voranzubringen. Eine detaillierte Untersuchung der Aktionsformen unterstreicht die Bedeutung von karnevaleskem Feiern, Provokationen und Spektakel für beide Formen der Psychiatriekritik. Wir argumentieren, dass diese Formen Kritik erfahrbar und zugleich Entwürfe einer anderen – besseren – Gesellschaft greifbar machen. Um diese Aspekte herauszuarbeiten, greifen wir auf queer- und gendertheoretische Überlegungen sowie auf Ansätze der Performance Studies zurück. Die Betrachtung von Mad Pride-Paraden und Blauer Karawane in ihren jeweiligen Kontexten offenbart Ähnlichkeiten in der Art und Weise, wie Kritik am Ausschluss von psychischer Alterität geübt wird, macht aber auch Unterschiede in Hinblick auf Betroffenheit, Teilhabe und Argumentationen deutlich.
Versorgung von diametaphysären Unterarmfrakturen im Kindes- und Jugendalter
Authors: Rüther H. , Spering C. , Fortini L. , Dresing K. , Lehmann W. , Radebold T.
Published: November 2024

Operationsziel

Die Osteosynthese bei dislozierten diametaphysären Unterarmfrakturen dient der Wiederherstellung von Anatomie und Funktion. Durch die Versorgung mit einer antegraden intramedullären Nagelosteosynthese im Radius sollen Länge, Rotation und Achse im Rahmen der altersspezifischen Korrekturgrenzen wiederhergestellt werden. Die ausreichende Stabilität gewährleistet eine frühfunktionelle Nachbehandlung ohne Last.

Indikationen

Dislozierte diametaphysäre Unterarm- oder Radiusfrakturen, die sich nicht geschlossen, stabil reponieren lassen oder außerhalb der altersspezifischen Korrekturgrenzen verbleiben.

Kontraindikationen

Radius- oder Unterarmfrakturen, die sich distal oder proximal des definierten Areals befinden. Im Zugangsweg befindliche Weichteildefekte, Kontaminationen oder Infekte.

Operationstechnik

Im Verlauf des Thompson-Zugangs wird der Soft-Spot zwischen M. extensor digitorum und M. extensor carpi radialis brevis aufgesucht und eine ca. 3–4 cm Hautinzision durchgeführt. Dann stumpfes Präparieren bis auf den Knochen unter Schonung des N. radialis profundus und superficialis. Retraktion der Muskulatur mit 2 Langenbeck-Haken. Eröffnen der Kortikalis mit einem Pfriem. Gegebenenfalls kann zuvor ein 2,5-mm-Bohrer mit Gewebeschutz bei sehr harter Kortikalis verwendet werden. Der TEN-Durchmesser (TEN = Titanium Elastic Nail) wird so gewählt, dass er etwa zwei Drittel des Markraumes ausfüllt. Es empfiehlt sich, ein Abflachen der TEN-Kufe mit einer Parallelflachzange durchzuführen. Nach geschlossener Reposition wird der TEN dann bis vor die Wachstumsfuge unter leicht rotierenden Bewegungen gebracht. Der TEN wird am proximalen Ende umgebogen und oberhalb der Muskelbäuche abgekniffen. Alternative Verfahren sind die Kirschner-Draht-Osteosynthese oder der retrograde TEN von radial oder dorsal, mit oder ohne additive Biegung.

Weiterbehandlung

Ziel der Osteosynthese ist die frühfunktionelle Nachbehandlung ohne Last. Sportkarenz wird für 8 Wochen empfohlen. Die Metallentfernung kann nach Konsolidierung zwischen 3 und 6 Monaten erfolgen.

Ergebnisse

Deutlich dislozierte bzw. außerhalb der Korrekturgrenzen liegende Radius- und Unterarmfrakturen im Kindesalter zeigen nach beschriebener Osteosynthesetechnik sehr gute Behandlungsergebnisse bei geringem Risikoprofil. Eine Pseudarthrose konnte genauso wie Nervenschäden nicht beobachtet werden. Eine sekundäre Dislokation trat nicht ein.
On the relation between urban road network and distribution centre location strategy of Franchise retail firms
Authors: Segi Shunsuke , Kobayashi Kiyoshi , Matsushima Kakuya
Published: November 2024

Franchise retailers such as supermarkets and convenience stores have achieved greater efficiency in delivering products to their chain stores by locating distribution centres (DCs) within or near cities. In this study, we propose that the reduction of product transportation time due to the construction of intra-urban roads facilitates the location of distribution centres. To this end, we model the inventory management behaviour of franchise retailers and show that distribution centres have two functions: (1) consolidating the inventory holding risk faced by individual chain stores and (2) achieving larger lot sizes when purchasing goods from outside the city. We then analyse the effects of facilitating logistics by improving intra-city roads on reorganizing the location patterns of chain stores and distribution centres in the city and on improving the convenience of shopping for consumers.
Integrating sentiment information for risk prediction: the case of crude oil futures market in China
Authors: Jiang Zhe , Lu Yunguo , Zhang Lin
Published: November 2024

This paper incorporates investor sentiment indexes into the traditional standard heterogeneous autoregressive (HAR) model to improve its power on predicting crude oil futures risk. Using the 5-min high-frequency trading data to construct the daily realized volatility, the original and revised HAR models are used for in-sample regression and out-of-sample forecasting on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis. The results show that the sentiment indexes and the search trend contain incremental information for forecasting the realized volatility of INE crude oil futures in the short and medium term. The search volume is the best indicator for weekly risk forecasting of INE crude oil futures. No robust index can improve the performance of HAR-type model on long-term risk prediction. This paper thus highlights that market participants should select appropriate strategies to minimize risk when volatility is at stake for their decisions.
Evaluating the clinical potential of bioceramic-rods for revascularization in osteonecrosis of the femoral head: a systematic review
Authors: Lu Xiao , Lu Yajie , Wang Zhen , Jin Fangchun , Wang Yicheng , Lu Jianxi
Published: November 2024

Objective

To evaluate the safety, reliability, and effectiveness of bioceramic rods (BR) in treating osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH), compared with other treatments such as core decompression and autologous bone grafting.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Data sources

Pubmed, Embase, and CNKI databases from January 2011 to July 2023.

Eligibility criteria for study selection

Included studies involved patients treated with bioceramic rods. Studies were required to have a follow-up time of more than six months and no statistically significant differences in baseline information between groups in controlled studies. Exclusions included literature reviews, case reports, conference abstracts, animal experiments, and studies without defined success criteria or lacking analysis on factors influencing efficacy.

Main outcome measures

The primary outcome measure was the Harris Hip Score (HHS) improvement rate. Secondary outcomes included the femoral head stability and survival rate, alongside the hip replacement rate.

Results

The systematic review revealed significant improvements in symptom relief and functional recovery using BR for the treatment of ONFH. An average follow-up of 20.44 months showed an overall HHS improvement rate of 33.93%. Hip preservation efficacy with BR was superior to core decompression and autologous bone grafting. The overall femoral head survival rate was 84.42%, with results sustained for three years. The success rate of hip preservation was notably higher with early intervention, which showed better outcomes when the overall HHS improvement exceeded 27%, and rates of excellent and good outcomes approached 90%.

Conclusions

Bioceramic rods offer a safe, minimally invasive, reliable, and effective treatment option for ONFH, ensuring substantial symptom relief and functional recovery. The technique’s success in early disease stages suggests a strong potential for broader clinical adoption. Although additional benefits from combining BR with stem cells, platelet-rich plasma, and traditional Chinese medicine are noted, definitive conclusions on enhanced therapeutic effects remain inconclusive.
The microglial translocator protein (TSPO) in Alzheimer’s disease reflects a phagocytic phenotype
Authors: Garland Emma F. , Antony Henrike , Kulagowska Laura , Scott Thomas , Rogien Charlotte , Bottlaender Michel , Nicoll James A. R. , Boche Delphine
Published: November 2024

Translocator protein (TSPO) is a mitochondrial protein expressed by microglia, ligands for which are used as a marker of neuroinflammation in PET studies of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). We previously showed increasing TSPO load in the cerebral cortex with AD progression, consistent with TSPO PET scan findings. Here, we aim to characterise the microglial phenotype associated with TSPO expression to aid interpretation of the signal generated by TSPO ligands in patients. Human post-mortem sections of temporal lobe (TL) and cerebellum (Cb) from cases classified by Braak group (0–II, III–IV, V–VI; each n = 10) were fluorescently double labelled for TSPO and microglial markers: Iba1, HLA-DR, CD68, MSR-A and CD64. Quantification was performed on scanned images using QuPath software to assess the microglial phenotype of TSPO. Qualitative analysis was also performed for TSPO with GFAP (astrocytes), CD31 (endothelial cells) and CD163 (perivascular macrophages) to characterise the cellular profile of TSPO. The percentage of CD68+TSPO+ double-labelled cells was significantly higher than for other microglial markers in both brain regions and in all Braak stages, followed by MSR-A+TSPO+ microglia. Iba1+TSPO+ cells were more numerous in the cerebellum than the temporal lobe, while CD64+TSPO+ cells were more numerous in the temporal lobe. No differences were observed for the other microglial markers. TSPO expression was also detected in endothelial cells, but not detected in astrocytes nor in perivascular macrophages. Our data suggest that TSPO is mainly related to a phagocytic profile of microglia (CD68+) in human AD, potentially highlighting the ongoing neurodegeneration.
Development and validation of a cost-effective DIY simulation model for McDonald cerclage training
Authors: Buechel Johanna , Kalisz Adam , Herbert Saskia-Laureen , Scherer-Quenzer Anne , Blau-Schneider Bettina , Starrach Teresa , Kraft Katrina , Wöckel Achim , Pecks Ulrich , Kiesel Matthias
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The prevention of preterm birth is a challenging task for obstetricians. Cervical cerclage, used as both a primary and secondary prevention method for spontaneous preterm birth, is a crucial surgical intervention. It is essential that obstetricians can learn this procedure in a simulated environment before performing the stitches on high-risk patients. This study aimed to develop a simulator based on 3D printing and evaluate its validity for clinical training.

Methods

The objectives of this study were (1) to design and construct a cost-effective simulator for McDonald cerclage with two different cervix models—a closed cervix and a cervix with bulging membranes—using common material from a DIY store and 3D printing technology and (2) to validate its effectiveness through feedback from learners and experts in cervical cerclage. The self-made simulator was evaluated by obstetricians using a questionnaire with Likert scale.

Results

Obstetricians and gynecologists assessed the simulator and found it useful for learning and practicing cervical cerclage. The simulator was deemed valuable for skill training.

Conclusion

Cervical cerclage is a complex procedure that should be mastered through simulation rather than initial practice on real patients. Our simulator is a cost-effective model suitable for various clinical settings. It has been validated by obstetricians for both preventive and therapeutic cerclage, demonstrating its efficacy for training in cerclage techniques. Future research should focus on less skilled obstetricians and gynecologists and investigate how repeated use of the simulator can enhance their performance in cerclage stitching.
Cystinosis metabolic bone disease: inflammatory profile in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells and derived osteoclasts
Authors: Alioli Candide , Greco Marcella , Méaux Marie-Noëlle , Harambat Jérome , Topaloglu Rezan , Nobili François , Bertholet-Thomas Aurélia , Rousset-Rouviere Caroline , Portefaix Aurélie , Dumortier Claire , Emma Francesco , Machuca-Gayet Irma , Bacchetta Justine
Published: November 2024

Cystinosis metabolic bone disease (CMBD) is an emerging concept in infantile nephropathic cystinosis, patients presenting with bone pains, fractures, and deformations during teenage or early adulthood. The underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Our aim was to explore the pro-inflammatory profile of osteoclastic lineage in cystinotic patients. We obtained blood samples from 14 cystinotic patients and 10 pediatric healthy controls. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated and used to explore by RT-qPCR the transcript expression of 8 inflammatory markers (Il-6, Il-8, Il-1β, CXCL1, CCL2/MCP-1, CXCR3, Il-1 Receptor, Il-6 Receptor). In addition, when possible, PBMCs were differentiated into osteoclasts for further experiments. The expression of Il-6, IL-8, CXCR3, and CCL2/MCP-1 was significantly increased in PBMCs from cystinotic patients. We also explored the expression of Il-1 Receptor and Il-6 Receptor, two major pro-osteoclastic signal inducers, in osteoclasts differentiated from PBMCs from controls (N = 3) and patients (N = 4). The expression of IL-1 Receptor (but not IL-6 receptor) was increased in osteoclasts obtained from cystinotic patients.

Conclusion: There is an inflammatory profile in PBMCs and osteoclastic lineage in cells obtained from cystinotic patients. CXCR3 and MCP-1 stimulate migration and activation of macrophages, that may explain the previously reported local increased osteoclastogenesis. The osteoclastic overexpression of IL-1 Receptor is a relevant observation in the field since blocking Il-1β signaling has recently been proposed as a novel therapeutic approach to improve muscular wasting in this orphan disease.

What is Known:

• Cystinosis metabolic bone disease (CMBD), an emerging concept with unclear underlying mechanisms, induces bone pains, fractures and deformations in patients with cystinosis.

• Blocking Il-1β signaling may be a novel therapeutic approach to improve muscular wasting in cystinosis.

What is New:

• There is an inflammatory profile in PBMCs and osteoclastic lineage in cells obtained from cystinotic patients, with an over-expression of IL-1 Receptor in osteoclasts.

• We provide another experimental rationale to propose targeted anti-inflammatory therapies in cystinotic patients with severe bone disease.
Diversity of hirudin and hirudin-like factor genes in the North-African medicinal leech, Hirudo troctina
Authors: Ahmed Raja Ben , Abilov Amina , Müller Christian
Published: November 2024

Medicinal leeches of the genus Hirudo inhabit large areas of the Palaearctic realm. The distribution range of Hirudo troctina includes the southern Iberian peninsula and the northwestern regions of Africa. H. troctina is used for medical purposes, but only very little is known about the components of its salivary gland secretion. Hirudins, bivalent inhibitors of thrombin, are probably the best known leech-derived bioactive factors. Hirudin-like factors (HLFs) represent another class of salivary gland components that share characteristic genetic and structural markers with hirudins. Hirudin is not a single entity but exists in at least four different variants. However, there are differences among the European members of the genus Hirudo with respect to the actual number of hirudin and HLF genes that are present within their genomes. Here, we describe the identification and molecular cloning of 11 genes that encode for putative hirudin and HLF variants in H. troctina. Three of the genes consist of exons and introns that originate from different “archetype” genes and are likely the result of recombination events. The diversity of hirudin and HLF genes in H. troctina surpasses that of all other European members of the genus Hirudo. The putative hirudin variants and representatives of the HLFs of H. troctina were expressed as recombinant proteins, purified and functionally characterized for their thrombin-inhibiting potencies. Phylogenetic analyses based on hirudin and HLF gene sequences of the leech genera Hirudo, Hirudinaria, and Whitmania supported the hypothesis that hirudins and HLFs diverged early in leech evolution.
Robotic minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair with the Dexter robotic system™: A prospective multicenter clinical investigation
Authors: Gantner Lukas , Mignot Hubert , Pochhammer Julius , Grieder Felix , Breitenstein Stefan
Published: November 2024

Background

Robot-assisted transabdominal preperitoneal inguinal hernia repair (rTAPP) has been established with various robotic platforms. The Dexter robotic system is an open platform consisting of a sterile surgeon’s console, two robotic instrument arms, and one robotic endoscope arm. This study aimed to confirm the perioperative and early postoperative safety and clinical performance of the Dexter system in patients undergoing primary transperitoneal inguinal hernia repair.

Methods

The primary objectives of this multicenter study conducted at three centers in France, Germany, and Switzerland were to document the successful completion of rTAPP procedures and the occurrence of serious adverse events (Clavien–Dindo grades III–V), device-related events up to 30 days post-surgery. The procedures were performed by three surgeons with varying levels of experience in robotic systems.

Results

50 patients with a median age of 62.5 years (IQR 51.0–72.0) and BMI of 25.1 kg/cm2 (IQR 23.5–28.7), respectively, underwent inguinal hernia repair (33 unilateral, 17 bilateral). All surgeries were successfully completed using three standard laparoscopy trocars. There were no conversions to open surgery, intraoperative complications or device deficiencies. The median skin-to-skin operative time was 50 min (IQR 45–60) for unilateral hernias and 96 min (IQR 84–105) for bilateral hernias. The median console time was 30 min (IQR 26–41) for unilateral and 66 min (IQR 60–77) for bilateral hernias. Twenty-six patients were discharged on the day of surgery, and 22 on postoperative day 1.

Conclusion

This study confirmed the use of the Dexter system in rTAPP was feasible and safe in multicenter cohorts, with operative times consistent with the literature on other robotic platforms. Our data demonstrated the accessibility of this new robotic approach, even when adopted by surgeons new to robotics. The Dexter system emerged as a valuable device in the hernia repair toolkit for both experienced robotic surgeons and those new to the field.
Upcoming multi-visceral robotic surgery systems: a SAGES review
Authors: Sarin Ankit , Samreen Sarah , Moffett Jennifer M. , Inga-Zapata Edmundo , Bianco Francesco , Alkhamesi Nawar A. , Owen Jacob D. , Shahi Niti , DeLong Jonathan C. , Stefanidis Dimitrios , Schlachta Christopher M. , Sylla Patricia , Azagury Dan E. ,   for The SAGES Robotic Platforms Working Group
Published: November 2024

Background

Robotic surgical procedures continue to increase both in the United States (US) and worldwide. Several novel robotic surgical platforms are under development or undergoing regulatory approval. This review explores robotic platforms that are expected to reach US consumers within the next 2–3 years.

Methods

The SAGES Robotic Platforms Working Group identified robotic surgery platforms in various stages of development and selected multi-visceral systems nearing or completing the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval process. We outline key system components including architecture, unique features, development status, regulatory approval, and expected markets.

Results

We identified twenty robotic platforms that met our selection criteria. Ten companies were based in North America, and ten were based in Europe or Asia. Each system is described in detail and key features are summarized in table form for easy comparison.

Conclusion

The emergence of novel robotic surgical platforms represents an important evolution in the growth of minimally invasive surgery. Increased competition has the potential to bring value to surgical patients by stimulating innovation and driving down cost. The impact of these platforms remains to be determined, but the continued growth of robotic surgery seems to be all but assured.