bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness and tolerability of rectal ointment and suppositories containing sucralfate for hemorrhoidal symptoms: a prospective, observational study
Authors: Marik Anikó Rita , Miklós Ildikó , Csukly Gábor , Hársfalvi Péter , Novák András
Published: May 2024

Background and aims

A high number of topical products are available for the treatment of hemorrhoidal symptoms. Sucralfate-based topical products constitute a new treatment alternative that act as a mechanical barrier to facilitate healing. The aim of this prospective, observational study was to determine patient- and physician-assessed effectiveness and tolerability of rectal ointment and suppositories containing sucralfate for the treatment of hemorrhoidal symptoms in routine clinical practice.

Methods

Adult patients with diagnosed, mild-to-moderate, symptomatic non-bleeding hemorrhoids treated with rectal ointment or suppositories containing sucralfate were enrolled. Patients were administered treatment twice per day for at least 1 week until symptom resolution and/or for a maximum of 4 weeks. The primary endpoint was patient-assessed effectiveness on a modified Symptom Severity Score (mSSS, range 0 to 14). Physician-assessed effectiveness (9 symptoms, 0 to 5 Likert scale), hemorrhoid grade, and patient satisfaction were also determined.

Results

Five investigators enrolled 60 patients; mean age was 48.4 ± 16.6 years and 72.4% were female. Pain or pressure sensitivity was reported as the most severe symptom by patients, and pressure sensitivity, discharge, soiling, and prolapse by physicians. Mean patient-assessed mSSS at baseline was 6.6 ± 1.9 and was significantly improved overall and in the ointment and suppository groups individually by −4.6 ± 2.0, −4.4 ± 1.8, and −4.8 ± 2.2, respectively (p < 0.0001). Investigator-assessed mean baseline symptom score was 18.1 ± 3.9 and improved by −7.1 ± 4.5, −6.9 ± 5.4, and −7.3 ± 3.5, respectively (p < 0.0001). Investigator-assessed symptoms of pressure sensitivity, swelling, and discharge were improved to the greatest extent. Hemorrhoid grade was improved in 38% of patients at the end of treatment. Compliance with treatment was 97.4% and patient satisfaction with application and onset of action was high (81.3% and 76.2%, respectively). Both the ointment and suppository were well tolerated.

Conclusions

The effectiveness of topical ointment or suppository containing sucralfate on patient- and investigator-assessed hemorrhoidal symptoms in real-life clinical practice was demonstrated. Patient satisfaction was high and treatments were well tolerated. Larger controlled trials are warranted to confirm the results.
Testing on bacterial vaginosis in a subfertile population and time to pregnancy: a prospective cohort study
Authors: van den Tweel Marjolein , van den Munckhof Ellen , van der Zanden Moniek , Le Cessie Saskia , van Lith Jan , Boers Kim
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the influence of bacterial vaginosis on time to pregnancy in subfertile couples.

Methods

Couples attending a teaching hospital in the Netherlands having an initial fertility assessment (IFA) between July 2019 and June 2022 were included in this prospective study, with follow-up of pregnancies until June 2023. Vaginal samples at IFA were analyzed on pH, qPCR BV, and 16S rRNA gene microbiome analysis of V1-V2 region. Main outcome measures were time from initial fertility assessment to ongoing pregnancy at 12 weeks and live birth, analyzed by Kaplan–Meier and Cox regression with adjustment for potential confounders.

Results

At IFA, 27% of 163 included participants tested positive for BV. BV status had no influence on time to ongoing pregnancy (HR 0.98, 0.60–1.61, aHR 0.97, 0.58–1.62). In persons with unexplained subfertility, positive BV status had a tendency of longer time to pregnancy. When persons had an indication for fertility treatment, positive BV status (HR 0.21, 0.05–0.88, aHR 0.19, 0.04–0.85) and microbiome community state type III and type IV had significant longer time to pregnancy.

Conclusion

This study indicates that BV may have a potential negative impact on time to live birth pregnancy in subfertile persons with an indication for fertility treatment. This study did not find an association between BV and time to live birth pregnancy in a general group of subfertile couples or in unexplained subfertility. More research should be done in persons with unexplained subfertility and if treatment improves time to pregnancy.
Effect of administration routes of oxytocin on hemoglobin in neonates with delayed umbilical cord clamping: a multi-centre randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Mei Lu , Gu Ning , Zhou Yan , Wang Zhiqun , Yang Ling , Chen Li , Li Chunxia , Dai Yimin
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the effect of intravenous infusion versus intramyometrial injection of oxytocin on hemoglobin levels in neonates with delayed umbilical cord clamping during cesarean section.

Methods

The multi-centre randomized controlled trial was performed at three hospitals from February to June 2023. Women with term singleton gestations scheduled for cesarean delivery were allocated to receive an intravenous infusion of 10 units of oxytocin or a myometrial injection of 10 units of oxytocin during the surgery. The primary outcome was neonatal hemoglobin at 48 to 96 h after birth. Secondary outcomes were side-effects of oxytocin, postpartum haemorrhage, phototherapy for jaundice, feeding at 1 month, maternal and neonatal morbidity and re-admissions.

Results

A total of 360 women were randomized (180 women in each group). The mean neonatal hemoglobin did not show a significant difference between the intravenous infusion group (194.3 ± 21.7 g/L) and the intramyometrial groups (195.2 ± 24.3 g/L) (p = 0.715). Secondary neonatal outcomes, involving phototherapy for jaundice, feeding at 1 month and neonatal intensive care unit admission were similar between the two groups. The maternal outcomes did not differ significantly between the two groups, except for a 200 mL higher intraoperative infusion volume observed in the intravenous group compared to the intramyometrial group.

Conclusion

Among women undergoing elective cesarean delivery of term singleton pregnancies, there was no significant difference in neonatal hemoglobin at 48 to 96 h after birth between infants with delayed cord clamping, whether the oxytocin was administrated by intravenous infusion or intramyometrial injection.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical trial registry: ChiCTR2300067953 (1 February 2023).
Apnoeic oxygenation with high flow nasal oxygen for interventional surgery of the larynx and pharynx
Authors: Langer Christine , Wittekindt Claus , Arens Christoph , Käbisch Sonja
Published: May 2024

Background

Highflow nasal cannula oxygen (HFNO) is known to be used for noninvasive oxygenation in intensive care patients but it has rarely been used in airway management for elective surgery of the upper aerodigestive tract.

Objectives

HFNO offers opportunities of a tubeless oxygenation system which is easy to handle and not limited only on surgery of the endolarynx.

Methods

We evaluated this method for oxygenation during brief interventional procedures of the larynx and pharynx in 92 adult patients for safety and intraoperative complications. The need of secondary endotracheal intubation and limiting comorbidities as pulmonal and cardiac diseases were documented.

Results

HFNO showed a good safety profile concerning saturation and hypercapnia. Oxygen desaturation below 90% occurred only in 5 patients, mask ventilation led to quick recovery except in one patient who was secondary intubated. A significant influence of the body mass index on the minimal O2 saturation was shown (p < 0,001) so that a possible limitation of the method exists here. Comorbidities were grouped into the ASA classification. There was a significant difference between ASA I/II and ASA III patients in terms of minimum O2saturation.

Conclusion

We conclude that HFNO may hold great promise for changing ventilator technique in general anesthesia, particularly in short elective laryngeal and pharyngeal surgery. Safety and feasibility were proven in this study.
Pursuing Clinical Predictors and Biomarkers for Progression in ILD: Analysis of the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation (PFF) Registry
Authors: Chang Sarah E. , Jia Guiquan , Gao Xia , Schiffman Courtney , Gupta Sachin , Wolters Paul , Neighbors Margaret
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Pulmonary fibrosis is a characteristic of various interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) with differing etiologies. Clinical trials in progressive pulmonary fibrosis (PPF) enroll patients based on previously described clinical criteria for past progression, which include a clinical practice guideline for PPF classification and inclusion criteria from the INBUILD trial. In this study, we compared the ability of past FVC (forced vital capacity) progression and baseline biomarker levels to predict future progression in a cohort of patients from the PFF Patient Registry.

Methods

Biomarkers previously associated with pathobiology and/or progression in pulmonary fibrosis were selected to reflect cellular senescence (telomere length), pulmonary epithelium (SP-D, RAGE), myeloid activation (CXCL13, YKL40, CCL18, OPN) and fibroblast activation (POSTN, COMP, PROC3).

Results

PFF or INBUILD-like clinical criteria was used to separate patients into past progressor and non-past progressor groups, and neither clinical criterion appeared to enrich for patients with greater future lung function decline. All baseline biomarkers measured were differentially expressed in patient groups compared to healthy controls. Baseline levels of SP-D and POSTN showed the highest correlations with FVC slope over one year, though correlations were low.

Conclusions

Our findings provide further evidence that prior decline in lung function may not predict future disease progression for ILD patients, and elevate the need for molecular definitions of a progressive phenotype. Across ILD subtypes, certain shared pathobiologies may be present based on the molecular profile of certain biomarker groups observed. In particular, SP-D may be a common marker of pulmonary injury and future lung function decline across ILDs.
Predictors of futile recanalization in nonagenarians treated with mechanical thrombectomy: a multi-center observational study
Authors: D’Anna Lucio , Merlino Giovanni , Romoli Michele , Zhang Liqun , Del Regno Caterina , Aggour Mohammed , Levee Viva , Foschi Matteo , Sponza Massimo , Toraldo Francesco , Algazlan Razan , Ruggiero Maria , Longoni Marco , Lobotesis Kyriakos , Abu-Rumeileh Samir , Bagatto Daniele , Mansoor Nina , Gigli Gian Luigi , Valente Mariarosaria , Banerjee Soma
Published: May 2024

Background

There is a lack of data regarding patients aged 90 years or older undergoing mechanical thrombectomy and their predictors of futile recanalization.

Aims

We sought to evaluate the predictors of futile recanalization in patients ≥ 90 years with large vessel occlusion undergoing mechanical thrombectomy.

Methods

This multi-center observational retrospective study included patients ≥ 90 years consecutively treated with mechanical thrombectomy in four thrombectomy capable centers between January 1st, 2016 and 30th March 2023. Futile recanalization was defined as large vessel occlusion patients experiencing a 90-day poor outcome (mRS 3–6) despite successful recanalization (mTICI ≥ 2b) after mechanical thrombectomy.

Results

Our cohort included 139 patients ≥ 90 years with acute ischemic stroke due to anterior circulation large vessel occlusion treated with mechanical thrombectomy. One hundred seventeen of one hundred thirty-nine patients ≥ 90 years who achieved successful recanalization were included in the analysis (seventy-six female (64.9%)), of whom thirty-one (26.49%) experienced effective recanalization and eighty-six (73.51%) experienced futile recanalization. Patients with futile recanalization had higher NIHSS on admission (p < 0.001); they were less frequently treated with intravenous thrombolysis (p = 0.048), had more often general anesthesia (p = 0.011), and longer door to groin puncture delay (p = 0.002). Univariable regression analysis showed that use of intravenous thrombolysis (0.29, 95% CI 0.02–0.79, p = 0.034) and site of occlusion distal vs proximal (0.34, 95% CI 0.11–0.97, p = 0.044) were associated with reduced probability of futile recanalization while NIHSS on admission (1.29, 95% CI 1.16–1.45, p < 0.001), NIHSS at 24 h (1.15, 95% CI 1.07–1.25, p = 0.002), type of anesthesia used (4.18, 95% CI 1.57–11.08, p = 0.004), and door to groin puncture time (1.02, 95% CI 1.00–1.05, p = 0.005) were associated with increased probability of futile recanalization. Multivariable regression analysis showed that use of intravenous thrombolysis (0.44, 95% CI 0.09–0.88, p = 0.039) was associated with reduced probability of futile recanalization.

Conclusion

Our study seems to suggest that mechanical thrombectomy with intravenous thrombolysis is associated with reduced probability of futile recanalization in a multi-center cohort of patients aged 90 years or older.
Risk assessment model based on nucleotide metabolism-related genes highlights SLC27A2 as a potential therapeutic target in breast cancer
Authors: Zhang Bo , Zhang Yunjiao , Chang Kexin , Hou Niuniu , Fan Pengyu , Ji Cheng , Liu Liuyin , Wang Zhe , Li Ruolei , Wang Yaping , Zhang Jian , Ling Rui
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Breast cancer (BC) is the most prevalent malignant tumor worldwide among women, with the highest incidence rate. The mechanisms underlying nucleotide metabolism on biological functions in BC remain incompletely elucidated.

Materials and Methods

We harnessed differentially expressed nucleotide metabolism-related genes from The Cancer Genome Atlas-BRCA, constructing a prognostic risk model through univariate Cox regression and LASSO regression analyses. A validation set and the GSE7390 dataset were used to validate the risk model. Clinical relevance, survival and prognosis, immune infiltration, functional enrichment, and drug sensitivity analyses were conducted.

Results

Our findings identified four signature genes (DCTPP1, IFNG, SLC27A2, and MYH3) as nucleotide metabolism-related prognostic genes. Subsequently, patients were stratified into high- and low-risk groups, revealing the risk model's independence as a prognostic factor. Nomogram calibration underscored superior prediction accuracy. Gene Set Variation Analysis (GSVA) uncovered activated pathways in low-risk cohorts and mobilized pathways in high-risk cohorts. Distinctions in immune cells were noted between risk cohorts. Subsequent experiments validated that reducing SLC27A2 expression in BC cell lines or using the SLC27A2 inhibitor, Lipofermata, effectively inhibited tumor growth.

Conclusions

We pinpointed four nucleotide metabolism-related prognostic genes, demonstrating promising accuracy as a risk prediction tool for patients with BC. SLC27A2 appears to be a potential therapeutic target for BC among these genes.
Characterization of a novel HDAC2 pathogenetic variant: a missing puzzle piece for chromatinopathies
Authors: Di Fede Elisabetta , Lettieri Antonella , Taci Esi , Castiglioni Silvia , Rebellato Stefano , Parodi Chiara , Colombo Elisa Adele , Grazioli Paolo , Natacci Federica , Marchisio Paola , Pezzani Lidia , Fazio Grazia , Milani Donatella , Massa Valentina , Gervasini Cristina
Published: May 2024

Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are enzymes pivotal for histone modification (i.e. acetylation marks removal), chromatin accessibility and gene expression regulation. Class I HDACs (including HDAC1, 2, 3, 8) are ubiquitously expressed and they often participate in multi-molecular protein complexes. To date, three neurodevelopmental disorders caused by mutations in genes encoding for HDACs (HDAC4, HDAC6 and HDAC8) and thus belonging to the group of chromatinopathies, have been described. We performed whole exome sequencing (WES) for a patient (#249) clinically diagnosed with the chromatinopathy Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome (RSTS) but negative for mutations in RSTS genes, identifying a de novo frameshift variant in HDAC2 gene. We then investigated its molecular effects in lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCLs) derived from the patient compared to LCLs from healthy donors (HD). As the variant was predicted to be likely pathogenetic and to affect the sequence of nuclear localization signal, we performed immunocytochemistry and lysates fractionation, observing a nuclear mis-localization of HDAC2 compared to HD LCLs. In addition, HDAC2 total protein abundance resulted altered in patient, and we found that newly identified variant in HDAC2 affects also acetylation levels, with significant difference in acetylation pattern among patient #249, HD and RSTS cells and in expression of a known molecular target. Remarkably, RNA-seq performed on #249, HD and RSTS cells shows differentially expressed genes (DEGs) common to #249 and RSTS. Interestingly, our reported patient was clinically diagnosed with RSTS, a chromatinopathy which known causative genes encode for enzymes antagonizing HDACs. These results support the role of HDAC2 as causative gene for chromatinopathies, strengthening the genotype-phenotype correlations in this relevant group of disorders.
Annulus Graphs in $$\mathbb R^d$$
Authors: Lichev Lyuben , Mihaylov Tsvetomir
Published: May 2024

A d-dimensional annulus graph with radii $$R_1$$

R
1

and $$R_2$$

R
2

(here $$R_2\ge R_1\ge 0$$

R
2

≥

R
1

≥
0

) is a graph embeddable in $$\mathbb R^d$$

R
d

so that two vertices u and v form an edge if and only if their images in the embedding are at distance in the interval $$[R_1, R_2]$$

[

R
1

,

R
2

]

. In this paper we show that the family $$\mathcal A_d(R_1,R_2)$$

A
d

(

R
1

,

R
2

)

of d-dimensional annulus graphs with radii $$R_1$$

R
1

and $$R_2$$

R
2

is uniquely characterised by $$R_2/R_1$$

R
2

/

R
1

when this ratio is sufficiently large. Moreover, as a step towards a better understanding of the structure of $$\mathcal A_d(R_1,R_2)$$

A
d

(

R
1

,

R
2

)

, we show that $$\sup _{G\in \mathcal A_d(R_1,R_2)} \chi (G)/\omega (G)$$

sup

G
∈

A
d

(

R
1

,

R
2

)

χ

(
G
)

/
ω

(
G
)

is given by $$\exp (O(d))$$

exp
(
O
(
d
)
)

for all $$R_1,R_2$$

R
1

,

R
2

satisfying $$R_2\ge R_1 > 0$$

R
2

≥

R
1

>
0

and also $$\exp (\Omega (d))$$

exp
(
Ω
(
d
)
)

if moreover $$R_2/R_1\ge 1.2$$

R
2

/

R
1

≥
1.2

.
An enhanced fourier neural operator surrogate for radioactive plume transport forecasting
Authors: Ayoub Ali , Wainwright Haruko M. , Wang Lijing , Sansavini Giovanni
Published: May 2024

Accurate real-time forecasts of atmospheric plume behavior are crucial for effective management of environmental release incidents. However, the computational demands of weather simulations and particle transport codes limit their applicability during emergencies. In this study, we employ a U-Net enhanced Fourier Neural Operator (U-FNO) to statistically emulate the calculations of the WSPEEDI dose forecasting numerical simulator, using pre-calculated ensemble simulations. The developed emulator is capable of effectively simulating any radioactive-release scenario and generating the time series of dose distribution in the environment 4000 times faster than the numerical simulator, while still maintaining high accuracy. It predicts the plume direction, extent, and dose-rate magnitudes using initial- and boundary-condition meteorological data as input. The speed and efficiency of this framework offers a powerful tool for swift decision-making during emergencies, facilitating risk-informed protective actions, evacuation execution, and zone delineation. Its application extends to various contaminant release and transport problems, and can be instrumental in engineering tasks requiring uncertainty quantification (UQ) for environmental risk assessment.
Factors associated with psychological distress during genetic counseling in high-risk women with breast cancer in Turkey
Authors: Anuk Dilek , Tuncer Seref Bugra , Özkan Mine , Yazıcı Hülya
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to shed light on the rather neglected area of research of psychological distress in women facing genetic counselling in Turkey, where few institutions providing such counselling exist.

Methods

105 breast cancer patients presenting for genetic testing completed a sociodemographic and clinical questionnaire as well as validated structured questionnaires including the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), the State–Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-S/T) and the Health Motivation Sub-dimension of Champion’s Health Belief Model Scale.

Results

69.5% of the participants had lost a family member from cancer; 80% said the term “cancer” elicited negative thoughts (e.g., death, fear, and incurable disease). 62.9% and 37.1% attributed cancer to stress or sorrow, and genetic susceptibility, respectively. There was a negative association between health motivation and BDI scores (r:-0.433, p < 0.001). Married individuals had higher BDI and STAI-S scores (p = 0.001, p = 0.01 respectively), as well as lower STAI-T scores (p = 0.006). BDI, STAI-S and STAI-T scores were higher in those refusing genetic testing (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p = 0.003 respectively) and those with metastases (p = 0.03, p = 0.01, p = 0.03 respectively). Furthermore, individuals with low health motivation were more likely to exhibit high BDI scores (p < 0.001) and low STAI-T scores (p = 0.02).

Conclusion

Common perceptions and beliefs about cancer and genetic testing during genetic counselling were found to have a negative impact on distress in high-risk women with breast cancer. The negative relationship between psychological distress and health motivation may reduce patients' compliance with genetic counselling recommendations. A comprehensive psychological evaluation should be considered as an important part of genetic counselling.
Momentum Dependent Nucleon–Nucleon Contact Interactions and Their Effect on $$p-d$$ Scattering Observables
Authors: Filandri E. , Girlanda L. , Kievsky A. , Marcucci L. E. , Viviani M.
Published: May 2024

Starting from a complete set of relativistic nucleon–nucleon contact operators up to order $$O(p^4)$$

O
(

p
4

)

of the expansion in the soft (relative or nucleon) momentum p, we show that non-relativistic expansions of relativistic operators involve twenty-six independent combinations, two starting at $$O(p^0)$$

O
(

p
0

)

, seven at order $$O(p^2)$$

O
(

p
2

)

and seventeen at order $$O(p^4)$$

O
(

p
4

)

. This demonstrates the existence of two low-energy free constants that parameterize interactions dependent on the total momentum of the pair of nucleons P. The latter, through the use of a unitary transformation, can be removed in the two-nucleon fourth-order contact interaction of the Chiral Effective Field Theory, generating a three-nucleon interaction at the same order. Within a hybrid approach in which this interaction is considered together with the phenomenological potential AV18, we show that the LECs involved can be used to fit very accurate data on the polarization observables of the low-energy $$p-d$$

p
-
d

scattering, in particular the $$A_y$$

A
y

asymmetry.
Digitale Medien und Schlaf bei Kindern und Jugendlichen: Prävention und Intervention
Authors: Paulus Frank W.
Published: May 2024

Die voranschreitende Digitalisierung birgt neben all dem Positiven auch Gefährdungen für Kinder und Jugendliche wie zum Beispiel Gaming Disorder, Cybermobbing, Onlinesexsucht oder Cybergrooming. Diese digitalisierungsbedingten Störungen, aber auch die intensivierte Nutzung digitaler Medien allgemein können den Schlaf von Kindern und Jugendlichen negativ beeinflussen. Eine Kombination aus Verhältnis- und Verhaltensprävention ist notwendig, um dieser negativen Entwicklung effektiv entgegenzuwirken. Für eine effektive Verhältnisprävention ist die Mitarbeit der Entwickler und Anbieter medialer Angebote sowie eine Unterstützung auf politischer Ebene unerlässlich. Im Sinne einer Verhaltensprävention ist es wichtig, die Ressourcen der Kinder und Jugendlichen zu stärken, Kontextfaktoren miteinzubeziehen und den Erziehungsberechtigten Hilfestellungen sowie klare Empfehlungen anzubieten. Kinderärzte und Allgemeinmediziner sollten verstärkt für die Problematik sensibilisiert werden. Die vorhandenen Interventionsmaßnahmen zur Kontrolle der Bildschirmnutzung mit dem Ziel, die Schlafqualität zu verbessern, weisen zumeist nur kleine Wirkeffekte auf. Die Verfügbarkeit und Inanspruchnahme digitaler Behandlungsangeboten nimmt zu. Aussagekräftige Evaluationsstudien zur Effektivität dieser Interventionen sind erforderlich.
Achieving osteoporosis treat-to-target goals with teriparatide or alendronate: sub-analysis of Japanese Osteoporosis Intervention Trial-05 (JOINT-05)
Authors: Hagino Hiroshi , Tanaka Shiro , Kuroda Tatsuhiko , Mori Satoshi , Soen Satoshi
Published: May 2024

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether bone mineral density (BMD) ≥ −2.5 SD could be used as the treat-to-target (T2T) goal when treating osteoporosis with teriparatide (TPTD) and alendronate (ALN), and to investigate the relationship with incident vertebral fracture by re-analyzing data from a randomized, controlled trial (JOINT-05) involving postmenopausal Japanese women at high fracture risk.

Materials and methods

Participants received sequential therapy with once-weekly TPTD for 72 weeks, followed by ALN for 48 weeks (TPTD-ALN group) or ALN monotherapy for 120 weeks (ALN group). BMDs were measured at the lumbar spine (L2-4), total hip, and femoral neck at 0, 24, 48, 72, and 120 weeks by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. The T2T goal was BMD ≥ −2.5 SD, and the endpoint was the proportion of participants with baseline BMD < −2.5 SD in three measurement sites achieving BMD ≥ −2.5 SD.

Results

A total of 559 participants were selected. BMD ≥ −2.5 SD at 120 weeks in the L2-4, total hip, and femoral neck sites was achieved in 20.5%, 23.1%, and 5.9%, respectively, in the TPTD-ALN group and 22.2%, 11.7%, and 7.3%, respectively, in the ALN group. Incident vertebral fractures occurred in areas of both lower and high BMD.

Conclusion

During the 1.5-year treatment period, more than 20% of participants achieved BMD ≥ −2.5 SD as a T2T goal at L2-4. Since the achievement level differed depending on the BMD measurement site, the appropriate site should be selected according to the baseline BMD level.
Upregulation of psoriasin/S100A7 correlates with clinical severity in patients with oral lichen planus
Authors: Stolte Kim Natalie , Danker Kerstin , Witt Maren , Ebhardt Harald , Dommisch Henrik
Published: May 2024

Objectives

The aim of this study was to: (1) investigate the expression patterns of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), specifically psoriasin (S100A7) and calgranulin A and B (S100A8/A9), in patients with oral lichen planus (OLP) compared to healthy individuals; (2) evaluate the oral health-related quality of life (OHrQoL) in OLP patients versus healthy controls; (3) investigate the impact of clinical severity of OLP on OHrQoL; and (4) assess the influence of AMP expression on clinical severity and OHrQoL in OLP patients.

Materials and methods

Oral mucosal biopsies (n = 38) were collected from healthy individuals (n = 17) and patients with OLP (n = 21). Levels of AMPs (S100A7, S100A8, S100A9) and pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-8 (IL-8) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) were assessed by RT-qPCR. AMP protein localization was identified by indirect immunofluorescence analysis. OHrQoL was assessed using the OHIP-G14 questionnaire, and clinical severity was evaluated with the Oral Disease Severity Score (ODSS). Correlations between OLP manifestation, OHrQoL, and AMP expression were evaluated.

Results

(1) S100A7 (p < 0.001), IL-8 (p < 0.001), and TNFα (p < 0.001) mRNA levels were significantly upregulated in OLP tissue compared to healthy tissue, while S100A8 (p < 0.001) and S100A9 (p < 0.001) mRNA levels were downregulated. Immunofluorescence staining revealed an enhanced expression of S100A7 and decreased protein expression of S100A9 in OLP tissue. (2) OLP patients (9.58 ± 8.32) reported significantly higher OHIP-G14 scores compared to healthy individuals (0.67 ± 0.87; p < 0.001), particularly in the categories “physical pain” (p < 0.001) and “psychological discomfort” (p = 0.025). (3,4) Clinical severity (25.21 ± 9.77) of OLP correlated positively with OHrQoL (ρ = 0.497) and psoriasin expression (ρ = 0.402).

Conclusions

This study demonstrated differential expression patterns of AMPs in OLP and highlighted the correlation between the clinical manifestation of OLP and OHrQoL. Further research approaches should address the role of psoriasin in the risk of malignant transformation of OLP.

Clinical relevance

Psoriasin is a putative biomarker to monitor disease severity including malignant transformation of OLP lesions. OHIP-G14 scores can be useful to monitor OHrQoL in OLP patients.
Effect of fiber-reinforced direct restorative materials on the fracture resistance of endodontically treated mandibular molars restored with a conservative endodontic cavity design
Authors: Nezir Merve , Dinçtürk Beyza Arslandaş , Sarı Ceyda , Alp Cemile Kedici , Altınışık Hanife
Published: May 2024

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the fracture strength of teeth restored using fiber-reinforced direct restorative materials after endodontic treatment with a conservative mesio-occlusal access cavity design.

Materials and methods

A total of 100 extracted intact mandibular first molars were selected and distributed into a positive control group where teeth left intact and the following four test groups comprised of teeth with conservative mesio-occlusal access cavities that had undergone root canal treatment (n = 20/group): access cavity without restoration (negative control), bulk-fill resin composite with horizontal glass fiber post reinforcement, fiber-reinforced composite with bulk-fill resin and bulk-fill resin composite. Following thermocycling (10,000 cycles), fracture resistance was measured using a universal testing machine. Statistical analyses (one-way analysis of variance and the Tamhane test) were performed, and statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results

Groups with minimally invasive access cavities had lower fracture strength than intact teeth, regardless of the restoration material (p < 0.05). Fiber-reinforced composite groups demonstrated higher fracture strength than bulk-fill resin composite alone (p < 0.05). Fracture types varied among groups, with restorable fractures predominant in the fiber-reinforced composite groups.

Conclusion

This study suggests that using fiber-reinforced composite materials, especially in combination with bulk-fill resin composites, can effectively enhance the fracture strength of endodontically treated teeth with conservative access cavities. However, using only bulk-fill resin composite is not recommended based on the fracture strength results.

Clinical significance

When teeth that undergo endodontic treatment are restored using a conservative access cavity design and fiber-reinforced composite materials, especially in combination with bulk-fill resin composites, the fracture strength of the teeth can be effectively increased.
How does air pollution affect floating population in metropolitan city: embedding-based approach
Authors: Lee Won Sang
Published: May 2024

Recently, the air pollution has been seriously regarded in the urban environment. Particularly, the substantial relationship between the air pollution and the daily movements of citizens has not been sufficiently investigated yet. This study attempts to empirically identify the patterns of air pollution using association rule mining from Seoul, the metropolitan city in South Korea. As a result, 214 patterns on air pollution are discovered, and those are embedded into vectors based on Doc2Vec technique. Then, this paper further examines how the movement of citizens reacts to the discovered patterns of air pollution by deploying the linear regression on the floating population with emphasis on the walk-traffic. Specifically, the walk-traffic is categorized into 14 categories by gender and age group, and the effects of air pollution patterns on each subgroup walk traffic were analyzed. Findings of this paper provide the empirical evidences on the estimated air pollution sensitivity by generation and gender to researchers and practitioners. This paper has the contribution on newly proposing the methodological framework for further managing the air pollution in the urban environment.

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Addressing uncertainty in Participatory Integrated Assessment: qualitative modeling approach for risk estimation
Authors: Merino-Benítez Tatiana , Grave Ileana , Bojórquez-Tapia Luis A.
Published: May 2024

Participatory Integrated Assessment (PIA) has become a vital tool for decision-making for sustainable development, but it faces significant challenges due to the inherent uncertainty of socio-ecological systems. Uncertainty arises from multiple sources, such as incomplete data, knowledge gaps, and unpredictable events, which can lead to inadequate risk estimations and potentially undermine the effectiveness of environmental planning efforts. To address these challenges, this study proposes a qualitative modeling approach for risk estimation in PIA. The approach employs Decision Making under Deep Uncertainty (DMDU) to combine qualitative insights and information from stakeholders with available quantitative data. It allows for the exploration of alternative future states of the world and the identification of robust scenarios that promote sustainable development. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is demonstrated through the Ecological Ordinance of Yucatán, Mexico, a policy-making tool for multi-sectoral environmental planning. The study shows how qualitative DMDU can identify critical uncertainties and provide insights into regional management strategies. It also emphasizes the importance of stakeholder engagement and transparency in the decision-making process. Overall, this study presents a promising approach for addressing multiple forms of uncertainty in PIA and improving ecological risk estimation for decision-making in complex socio-ecological systems.
A Sheaf-Theoretic Construction of Shape Space
Authors: Arya Shreya , Curry Justin , Mukherjee Sayan
Published: May 2024

We present a sheaf-theoretic construction of shape space—the space of all shapes. We do this by describing a homotopy sheaf on the poset category of constructible sets, where each set is mapped to its Persistent Homology Transforms (PHT). Recent results that build on fundamental work of Schapira have shown that this transform is injective, thus making the PHT a good summary object for each shape. Our homotopy sheaf result allows us to “glue” PHTs of different shapes together to build up the PHT of a larger shape. In the case where our shape is a polyhedron we prove a generalized nerve lemma for the PHT. Finally, by re-examining the sampling result of Smale-Niyogi-Weinberger, we show that we can reliably approximate the PHT of a manifold by a polyhedron up to arbitrary precision.
Computing balanced solutions for large international kidney exchange schemes
Authors: Benedek Márton , Biró Péter , Paulusma Daniel , Ye Xin
Published: May 2024

To overcome incompatibility issues, kidney patients may swap their donors. In international kidney exchange programmes (IKEPs), countries merge their national patient–donor pools. We consider a recently introduced credit system. In each round, countries are given an initial “fair” allocation of the total number of kidney transplants. This allocation is adjusted by a credit function yielding a target allocation. The goal is to find a solution that approaches the target allocation as closely as possible, to ensure long-term stability of the international pool. As solutions, we use maximum matchings that lexicographically minimize the country deviations from the target allocation. We perform, for the first time, a computational study for a large number of countries. For the initial allocations we use two easy-to-compute solution concepts, the benefit value and the contribution value, and four classical but hard-to-compute concepts, the Shapley value, nucleolus, Banzhaf value and tau value. By using state-of-the-art software we show that the latter four concepts are now within reach for IKEPs of up to fifteen countries. Our experiments show that using lexicographically minimal maximum matchings instead of ones that only minimize the largest deviation from the target allocation (as previously done) may make an IKEP up to 54% more balanced.
Novel picture fuzzy power partitioned Hamy mean operators with Dempster-Shafer theory and their applications in MCDM
Authors: Punetha Tanuja , Komal  , Pamucar Dragan
Published: May 2024

In some multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) scenarios, decision makers must address challenges like handling uncertain and incomplete information, managing biases in criteria values, and assessing interrelationships among criteria based on their partitioning as per their characteristics. To tackle these challenges, a picture fuzzy set (PFS) can be utilized to quantify vague information, Hamy mean (HM) can be used to consider criteria interrelationships while the power average (PA) mitigates any kind of biasness. Also, to overcome the limitations of persistence and invariantess in algebraic operations, Dempster-Shafer theory (DST) is employed. By integrating the conventional HM with the traditional PA under partitioning, this paper first introduced the novel power partitioned Hamy mean ($$PPtHM^q$$PPtHMq) operator. Then, this operator is extended for picture fuzzy numbers (PFNs) with DST and two novel operators are introduced, which are named as picture fuzzy power partitioned Hamy mean$$(PFPPtHM^q_{DST})$$(PFPPtHMDSTq)and picture fuzzy weighted power partitioned Hamy mean$$(PFWPPtHM^q_{DST})$$(PFWPPtHMDSTq)with some desirable properties. Moreover, based on these operators, a new method for MCDM in the PFS environment has been designed. The paper illustrates their application in selecting the best hotel among four alternatives ($$B_1$$B1,$$B_2$$B2,$$B_3$$B3,$$B_4$$B4) based on five criteria, which are partitioned into two sets. Results indicate that the best and worst alternatives under these operators are hotels$$B_1$$B1and$$B_4$$B4, respectively. Sensitivity analysis explores the impact of granularity parameter variations, and comparative analysis demonstrates the effectiveness of the presented operators. Overall, the study concludes that these operators offer flexibility, generality, and consistency for analyzing MCDM problems in PFS environments.
The human in the loop Perspectives and challenges for RoboCup 2050
Authors: Rossi Alessandra , Paetzel-Prüsmann Maike , Keijsers Merel , Anderson Michael , Anderson Susan Leigh , Barry Daniel , Gutsche Jan , Hart Justin , Iocchi Luca , Kokkelmans Ainse , Kuijpers Wouter , Liu Yun , Polani Daniel , Roscon Caleb , Scheunemann Marcus , Stone Peter , Vahl Florian , van de Molengraft René , von Stryk Oskar
Published: May 2024

Robotics researchers have been focusing on developing autonomous and human-like intelligent robots that are able to plan, navigate, manipulate objects, and interact with humans in both static and dynamic environments. These capabilities, however, are usually developed for direct interactions with people in controlled environments, and evaluated primarily in terms of human safety. Consequently, human-robot interaction (HRI) in scenarios with no intervention of technical personnel is under-explored. However, in the future, robots will be deployed in unstructured and unsupervised environments where they will be expected to work unsupervised on tasks which require direct interaction with humans and may not necessarily be collaborative. Developing such robots requires comparing the effectiveness and efficiency of similar design approaches and techniques. Yet, issues regarding the reproducibility of results, comparing different approaches between research groups, and creating challenging milestones to measure performance and development over time make this difficult. Here we discuss the international robotics competition called RoboCup as a benchmark for the progress and open challenges in AI and robotics development. The long term goal of RoboCup is developing a robot soccer team that can win against the world’s best human soccer team by 2050. We selected RoboCup because it requires robots to be able to play with and against humans in unstructured environments, such as uneven fields and natural lighting conditions, and it challenges the known accepted dynamics in HRI. Considering the current state of robotics technology, RoboCup’s goal opens up several open research questions to be addressed by roboticists. In this paper, we (a) summarise the current challenges in robotics by using RoboCup development as an evaluation metric, (b) discuss the state-of-the-art approaches to these challenges and how they currently apply to RoboCup, and (c) present a path for future development in the given areas to meet RoboCup’s goal of having robots play soccer against and with humans by 2050.
Soil gross N2O emission and uptake under two contrasting agroforestry systems: riparian tree buffer versus alley-cropping tree row
Authors: Luo Jie , Beule Lukas , Shao Guodong , Niu Dan , Veldkamp Edzo , Corre Marife D.
Published: May 2024

In addition to the removal of excess mineral nitrogen (N) via root uptake, trees in agroforestry systems may mitigate negative effects of high N fertilization of adjacent crops by enhancing complete denitrification of excess mineral N aside from root uptake. Presently, little is known about the potential for NO3− reduction through denitrification (conversion to greenhouse gas N2O and subsequently to non-reactive N2) in contrasting agroforestry systems: riparian tree buffer versus tree row of an upland alley-cropping system. Our study aimed to (1) quantify gross N2O emissions (both N2O + N2 emissions) and gross N2O uptake (N2O reduction to N2), and (2) determine their controlling factors. We employed the 15N2O pool dilution technique to quantify gross N2O fluxes from 0 to 5 cm (topsoil) and 40 to 60 cm (subsoil) depths with seasonal field measurements in 2019. The riparian tree buffer exhibited higher topsoil gross N2O emissions and uptake than the alley-cropping tree row (P < 0.03). Gross N2O emissions were regulated by N and carbon (C) availabilities and aeration status rather than denitrification gene abundance. Gross N2O uptake was directly linked to available C and nirK gene abundance. In the subsoil, gross N2O emission and uptake were low in both agroforestry systems, resulting from low mineral N contents possibly due to N uptake by deep tree roots. Nonetheless, the larger available C and soil moisture in the subsoil of riparian tree buffer than in alley-cropping tree row (P < 0.05) suggest its large potential for N2O uptake whenever NO3− is transported to the subsoil.
Communicating climate futures: a multi-country study of how the media portray the IPCC scenarios in the 2021/2 Working Group reports
Authors: Painter James , Marshall Suzie , Leitzell Katherine
Published: May 2024

The way governments and policy makers think about climate futures has a wide-ranging impact on how they formulate policy and plan for climate change impacts. In the lead-up to the Sixth Assessment Report (AR6), the IPCC adopted a new scenarios framework that aimed to provide a fuller picture of the interacting elements and policy choices that affect climate change. However, these scenarios, known as Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs), are complex and difficult to communicate. Most audiences, including policy makers, receive much of their information about climate change from mainstream media, and particularly online news sites. We therefore examined the five most popular online news sites in the UK and the USA, five popular English-language news sites in India, English-language news media from a wide range of African countries, and the Reuters News agency. Based on manual content analysis to assess 252 articles, we identify several important findings, amongst them: in all countries, the media provide little detailed explanation of how scenarios are developed, very little mention of SSPs, and virtually no detailed explanations of them; generally, journalists use the words ‘projections’, ‘futures’, and ‘pathways’ when talking about the IPCC scenarios, although some usage of ‘predictions’ or ‘forecasts’ is apparent; contrary to previous research, there were very few doomsday narratives such as ‘only 12 years to act’. We conclude by drawing out some implications for more effective communication of the IPCC scenarios.
Turn-over and Retention Among Head Start Educators
Authors: Vicente Delia , Venegas Melanie , Guerrero Alma D.
Published: May 2024

Educators shape the quality of early education programs and are essential to children’s learning and healthy development. However, the early childhood education field is often challenged in retaining educational staff. Using a descriptive research design this study explores turnover and retention through the voices of Head Start and Early Head Start education staff. Education staff identified retention factors to be, holding a job with meaning and purpose that made a positive difference for children, families and communities, access to professional development opportunities, and positive connections with colleagues. While, low wages, high volumes of paperwork, complex caseloads, lack of recognition, weak onboarding, teacher preparation practices, and lack of voice in program changes, were identified as turnover factors. Despite low wages educators voiced they are more likely to stay when their growth and relatedness needs are being met. Overall turnover and retention were influenced by an organization’s systems, practices, and working conditions and how well these met the human core needs of its staff.
Assessing the post-construction support for solar water-pumping systems in rural communities in Indonesia
Authors: Rahmani Sita , Murayama Takehiko , Nishikizawa Shigeo , Suwanteep Kultip
Published: May 2024

Community-scale solar water-pumping systems (SWPSs) have become ideal alternatives for remote villages that lack electricity and water access. In Indonesia, SWPSs have been installed in many villages, but they often malfunction. Although technical studies are available, evidence showing the effect of post-construction support on the interplay in SWPS projects is scarce. Therefore, this study examined the post-construction support from the perspectives of the communities and local actors in four SWPS projects in rural Indonesia using a questionnaire survey. Three types of support were considered in the research framework and selected as dependent variables for regression analysis: capacity building, financial assistance, and technical assistance. Data were collected from 275 beneficiaries and 11 local actors, including local governments and implementing organizations, and statistical analysis was conducted. The results showed that, on average, the communities perceived that the community-based organization (CBO)–a local team that manages SWPS projects–was incapable of solving problems independently. Moreover, the existing support was inadequate and did not meet the requirements of the communities. This study found three determinants of the need for support: technical skills, funds for technical assistance, and financial management (eigenvalues of 2.89, 1.51, and 1.23, respectively). Logistic regression analysis revealed that technical skills were particularly crucial because this factor significantly determined the need for all types of support (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01). However, relying on the support of local actors is difficult, because of their limited resource availability. These findings highlight the significance and role of the support aspect in achieving the sustainability of renewable energy projects in rural areas. Although increased effort to improve the capabilities of the CBOs is necessary, future projects must also consider the trade-off between renewable energy technology and the consequent need for support. Accordingly, designing projects that promote support from all stakeholders is imperative.