bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Jensen convexity of quasideviation and Bajraktarević means
Authors: Páles Zsolt , Pasteczka Paweł
Published: July 2023

Motivated by the characterization theorem about the Jensen convexity of quasiarithmetic means obtained by the authors in 2021, our main goal is to establish a characterization of the Jensen convexity of quasideviation as well as of Bajraktarević means without any additional and unnatural regularity assumptions.
Conservation laws and Hamilton–Jacobi equations with space inhomogeneity
Authors: Colombo Rinaldo M. , Perrollaz Vincent , Sylla Abraham
Published: July 2023

Conservation laws with an x-dependent flux and Hamilton–Jacobi equations with an x-dependent Hamiltonian are considered within the same set of assumptions. Uniqueness and stability estimates are obtained only requiring sufficient smoothness of the flux/Hamiltonian. Existence is proved without any convexity assumptions under a mild coercivity hypothesis. The correspondence between the semigroups generated by these equations is fully detailed. With respect to the classical Kružkov approach to conservation laws, we relax the definition of solution and avoid any restriction on the growth of the flux. A key role is played by the construction of sufficiently many entropy stationary solutions in $${{\textbf{L}}^\infty }$$

L

∞

that provide global bounds in time and space.
High-mountain phylogeography in the Balkan Peninsula: isolation pattern in a species of alpine siliceous grasslands and its possible background
Authors: Ronikier Michał , Kuzmanović Nevena , Lakušić Dmitar , Stevanoski Ivana , Nikolov Zoran , Zimmermann Niklaus E.
Published: July 2023

Although the Balkan Peninsula belongs to the most mountainous regions of Europe, phylogeographic structure of its alpine flora remains insufficiently understood, especially for species distributed both in the western and eastern parts of the Peninsula. We analyzed Campanula orbelica, a Balkan endemic typical of high-mountain siliceous grasslands, based on the population genetic structure, climatic niche modeling at the species- and intraspecific level, and niche hindcasting back to the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM; 20 kya). Our data reveal a clear phylogeographic pattern with three geographically coherent genetic groups: (i) the most divergent and spatially restricted lineage of the Pirin mountains (east), (ii) neighboring Rila mountains and other eastern Balkan massifs (Rhodopes, Stara Planina, Vitoša), and (iii) the most geographically disjunct mountains of the Scardo-Pindhic range (Šar Planina and Korab) in the west. This pattern indicates multiple refugia and isolated evolutionary centers within the Balkan Peninsula mountains, with the eastern part of the range as likely ancestral area, and an early dispersion into the western region, which formed the main geographical disjunction. The genetic divergence was only partly correlated with geographical isolation, clear dispersal barriers, or climatic niche shifts, suggesting contrasting isolation/dispersal dynamics in various parts of the range. Climatic niche overlap was low among eastern vs. western groups, which correlates with the longest spatial distance and significant genetic divergence, while niche characteristic of the Pirin lineage was a subset of the adjacent Rila lineage niche. High genetic divergence of the Pirin populations was also not correlated with persistent gaps in potential distributions but hypothetically may have been triggered by diversified (limestone/silicate) bedrock conditions. Our results highlight the need for high-mountain phylogeographic surveys in the eastern part of the Balkan Peninsula, to assess the biogeographical relevance of isolation patterns and definition of evolutionarily important units in the high-mountain flora.
A major yellow rust resistance QTL on chromosome 6A shows increased frequency in recent Norwegian spring wheat cultivars and breeding lines
Authors: Lin Min , Dieseth Jon Arne , Alsheikh Muath , Yang Ennian , Holzapfel Josef , Schürmann Friederike , Morales Laura , Michel Sebastian , Buerstmayr Hermann , Bhavani Sridhar , Lillemo Morten
Published: July 2023

Key message

A major yellow rust resistance QTL, QYr.nmbu.6A, contributed consistent adult plant resistance in field trials across Europe, China, Kenya and Mexico.

Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici, causing wheat yellow rust (YR), is one of the most devastating biotrophic pathogens affecting global wheat yields. Owing to the recent epidemic of the PstS10 race group in Europe, yellow rust has become a reoccurring disease in Norway since 2014. As all stage resistances (ASR) (or seedling resistances) are usually easily overcome by pathogen evolution, deployment of durable adult plant resistance (APR) is crucial for yellow rust resistance breeding. In this study, we assessed a Nordic spring wheat association mapping panel (n = 301) for yellow rust field resistance in seventeen field trials from 2015 to 2021, including nine locations in six countries across four different continents. Nine consistent QTL were identified across continents by genome-wide association studies (GWAS). One robust QTL on the long arm of chromosome 6A, QYr.nmbu.6A, was consistently detected in nine out of the seventeen trials. Haplotype analysis of QYr.nmbu.6A confirmed significant QTL effects in all tested environments and the effect was also validated using an independent panel of new Norwegian breeding lines. Increased frequency of the resistant haplotype was found in new varieties and breeding lines in comparison to older varieties and landraces, implying that the resistance might have been selected for due to the recent changes in the yellow rust pathogen population in Europe.
Mutuality as a method: advancing a social paradigm for global mental health through mutual learning
Authors: Bemme Dörte , Roberts Tessa , Ae-Ngibise Kenneth A. , Gumbonzvanda Nyaradzayi , Joag Kaustubh , Kagee Ashraf , Machisa Mercilene , van der Westhuizen Claire , van Rensburg André , Willan Samantha , Wuerth Milena , Aoun May , Jain Sumeet , Lund Crick , Mathias Kaaren , Read Ursula , Taylor Salisbury Tatiana , Burgess Rochelle A.
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Calls for “mutuality” in global mental health (GMH) aim to produce knowledge more equitably across epistemic and power differences. With funding, convening, and publishing power still concentrated in institutions in the global North, efforts to decolonize GMH emphasize the need for mutual learning instead of unidirectional knowledge transfers. This article reflects on mutuality as a concept and practice that engenders sustainable relations, conceptual innovation, and queries how epistemic power can be shared.

Methods

We draw on insights from an online mutual learning process over 8 months between 39 community-based and academic collaborators working in 24 countries. They came together to advance the shift towards a social paradigm in GMH.

Results

Our theorization of mutuality emphasizes that the processes and outcomes of knowledge production are inextricable. Mutual learning required an open-ended, iterative, and slower paced process that prioritized trust and remained responsive to all collaborators’ needs and critiques. This resulted in a social paradigm that calls for GMH to (1) move from a deficit to a strength-based view of community mental health, (2) include local and experiential knowledge in scaling processes, (3) direct funding to community organizations, and (4) challenge concepts, such as trauma and resilience, through the lens of lived experience of communities in the global South.

Conclusion

Under the current institutional arrangements in GMH, mutuality can only be imperfectly achieved. We present key ingredients of our partial success at mutual learning and conclude that challenging existing structural constraints is crucial to prevent a tokenistic use of the concept.
Trajectories of psychological distress and social integration in newly resettled refugees: findings from the Building a New Life in Australia longitudinal study
Authors: Nguyen Thomas P. , Slewa-Younan Shameran , Rioseco Pilar
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Refugees are at greater risk of mental illness due to stressors encountered post-resettlement. However, few longitudinal studies have examined the within-person effects of these stressors, especially with respect to social integration. This study aims to examine what factors are associated with psychological distress in a longitudinal sample of refugees resettled in Australia.

Methods

This study used data from three Waves of the Building a New Life in Australia study, collected between 2013 and 2018. The eligible sample included 1881 adult respondents, clustered in 1175 households. We conducted multilevel mixed-effects growth modelling incorporating time-variant and time-invariant covariates with psychological distress, using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K6).

Results

Rates of high psychological distress increased across the 5-year follow-up period. Social integration stressors (e.g. discrimination, lower sense of belonging, loneliness, lower English proficiency) were associated with higher levels of psychological distress over time. Refugees reporting loneliness not only had a greater risk of elevated psychological distress at each time point, but the difference in risk increased over each time point. Refugees who were exposed to traumatic events, older, female and of Middle Eastern background were also more likely to report higher levels of psychological distress over time.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the importance of identifying refugees who may encounter difficulties with social integration in the early years of resettlement. Newly arrived refugees may benefit from longer-term resettlement programmes that address post-migratory stressors, particularly with regards to loneliness, to reduce the prevalence of elevated psychological distress during the early years of resettlement.
Ecological footprint, electricity consumption, and economic growth in China: geopolitical risk and natural resources governance
Authors: Magazzino Cosimo
Published: July 2023

This paper examines the relationship among ecological footprint (EF), electricity consumption, and GDP in China using annual data ranging from 1960 to 2019. However, factors like trade openness, urbanization, and life expectancy might increase EF as ecological distortions are mainly human-induced. This study explores the effect of these variables on the environment, which is captured by EF. Quantile Regression estimates indicate that electricity consumption and real GDP increase environmental degradation, while trade and urbanization reduce EF, allowing for a higher environmental quality. On the other hand, the spectral Granger-causality tests reveal that only urbanization and life expectancy affect environmental degradation over the whole frequency domain. In the current geopolitical scenario, relevant policy implications may be derived.
Can vaginal lactobacillus suppositories help reduce urinary tract infections?
Authors: Shoureshi Poone S. , Niino Clarissa , Eilber Karyn S.
Published: July 2023

Introduction and hypothesis

Recurrent urinary tract infections (rUTIs) are a burden to patients and the health care economy. Vaginal probiotics and supplements have gained significant attention in mainstream media and lay press as a non-antibiotic alternative. We performed a systematic review to determine whether vaginal probiotics are an effective means of prophylaxis for rUTI.

Methods

A PubMed/MEDLINE article search was performed from inception to August 2022 for prospective, in vivo use of vaginal suppositories for the prevention of rUTIs. Search terms included: vaginal probiotic suppository (34 results), vaginal probiotic randomized (184 results), vaginal probiotic prevention (441 results), vaginal probiotic UTI (21 results), and vaginal probiotic urinary tract infection (91 results). A total of 771 article titles and abstracts were screened.

Results

A total of 8 articles fit the inclusion criteria and were reviewed and summarized. Four were randomized controlled trials, with 3 of the studies having a placebo arm. Three were prospective cohort studies, and 1 was a single arm, open label trial. Five of the 7 articles that specifically evaluated for rUTI reduction with vaginal suppositories did find a decreased incidence with probiotic use; however, only 2 had statistically significant results. Both of these were studies of Lactobacillus crispatus and were not randomized. Three studies demonstrated the efficacy and safety of Lactobacillus as a vaginal suppository.

Conclusion

Current data support the use of vaginal suppositories containing Lactobacillus as a safe, non-antibiotic measure, but actual reduction of rUTI in susceptible women remains inconclusive. The appropriate dosing and duration of therapy remain unknown.
Gynecologists’ perspectives on surgical treatment for apical prolapse: a qualitative study
Authors: van Oudheusden Anique M. J. , Weemhoff Mirjam , Menge Leah F. , Essers Brigitte A. B.
Published: July 2023

Introduction and hypothesis

Vaginal sacrospinous fixation (VSF) without mesh and sacrocolpopexy (SCP) with mesh are the most frequently performed surgical procedures for apical prolapse in the Netherlands. There is no long-term evidence suggesting the optimal technique, however. The aim was to identify which factors play a role in the choice between these surgical treatment options.

Methods

A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews amongst Dutch gynecologists was carried out. An inductive content analysis was performed with Atlas.ti.

Results

Ten interviews were analyzed. All gynecologists performed vaginal surgeries for apical prolapse, six gynecologists perform SCP themselves. Six gynecologists would perform VSF for a primary vaginal vault prolapse (VVP); three gynecologists preferred a SCP. All participants prefer a SCP for recurrent VVP. All participants have stated that multiple comorbidities could be a reason for choosing VSF, as this procedure is considered less invasive. Most participants choose a VSF in the case of older age (6 out of 10) or higher body mass index (7 out of 10). All treat primary uterine prolapse with vaginal, uterine-preserving surgery.

Conclusions

Recurrent apical prolapse is the most important factor in advising patients which treatment they should undergo for VVP or uterine descent. Also, the patient’s health status and the patient’s own preference are important factors. Gynecologists who do not perform the SCP in their own clinic are more likely to perform a VSF and find more reasons not to advise a SCP. All participants prefer a vaginal surgery for a primary uterine prolapse.
Determining the impact of seasoning on the volatile chemical composition of the oak wood of different Sherry Casks® by DTD–GC–MS
Authors: Guerrero-Chanivet María , García-Moreno M. Valme , Valcárcel-Muñoz Manuel J. , Guillén-Sánchez Dominico A.
Published: July 2023

The casks that have contained for a certain time Sherry wines are known as Sherry Casks® and their use and value have increased in recent years, as they confer unique organoleptic properties to the distillates and beverages that are aged inside them. During their seasoning, these casks yield certain compounds from wood into the wines, and at the same time, they retain some compounds from these Sherry wines which, in turn, are transferred to the distillates that are aged inside the casks, so that wood acts as a transfer vector between the two alcoholic beverages. A characterization of seasoned staves with three Sherry wines, Fino, Oloroso, and Pedro Ximénez, by DTD–GC–MS has been carried out in this study. Different tendencies regarding the compounds present in the wood have been observed as follows: in general, certain compounds from wood either disappeared or decreased during its seasoning, while other compounds that come from the seasoning wine either increased or appeared in the wood during the seasoning process. This fact demonstrates that during the ageing of Sherry wines these transfer certain interesting compounds into the casks wood, which are in turn transferred to the distillates.
Diffusive mass transfer and protein removal in the alkaline cleaning of a jellylike whey protein fouling layer
Authors: Wiese H. , Geißler H. , Augustin W. , Scholl S.
Published: July 2023

Single steps in cleaning a fouled heat exchanger surface eventually determine the cleaning kinetic and thus the overall performance of a cleaning process. Up to date the complex mechanisms of the mutual supportive processes in cleaning are not yet fully understood. This contribution presents a stepwise approach to investigate the individual process steps starting with the diffusion of the cleaning agent NaOH into a WPI gel, studied at stationary and flow conditions. In the experiments, temperature affected both the diffusion step and the subsequent removal but to different extents. This was further specified and it was found that there is an induction time for the release of disengaged proteins, accounting for the speed of the temperature dependent degrading reactions.
Long-term impact of myocardial inflammation on quantitative myocardial perfusion—a descriptive PET/MR myocarditis study
Authors: Buechel Ronny R. , Ciancone Domenico , Bakula Adam , von Felten Elia , Schmidt Gian-Andrea , Patriki Dimitri , Gräni Christoph , Wahl Andreas , Manka Robert , Heidecker Bettina , Benz Dominik C. , Giannopoulos Andreas A. , Pazhenkottil Aju P. , Kaufmann Philipp A.
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Whether myocardial inflammation causes long-term sequelae potentially affecting myocardial blood flow (MBF) is unknown. We aimed to assess the effect of myocardial inflammation on quantitative MBF parameters, as assessed by 13N-ammonia positron emission tomography myocardial perfusion imaging (PET-MPI) late after myocarditis.

Methods

Fifty patients with a history of myocarditis underwent cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging at diagnosis and PET/MR imaging at follow-up at least 6 months later. Segmental MBF, myocardial flow reserve (MFR), and 13N-ammonia washout were obtained from PET, and segments with reduced 13N-ammonia retention, resembling scar, were recorded. Based on CMR, segments were classified as remote (n = 469), healed (inflammation at baseline but no late gadolinium enhancement [LGE] at follow-up,n = 118), and scarred (LGE at follow-up,n = 72). Additionally, apparently healed segments but with scar at PET were classified as PET discordant (n = 18).

Results

Compared to remote segments, healed segments showed higher stress MBF (2.71 mL*min−1*g−1[IQR 2.18–3.08] vs. 2.20 mL*min−1*g−1[1.75–2.68],p < 0.0001), MFR (3.78 [2.83–4.79] vs. 3.36 [2.60–4.03],p < 0.0001), and washout (rest 0.24/min [0.18–0.31] and stress 0.53/min [0.40–0.67] vs. 0.22/min [0.16–0.27] and 0.46/min [0.32–0.63],p = 0.010 andp = 0.021, respectively). While PET discordant segments did not differ from healed segments regarding MBF and MFR, washout was higher by ~ 30% (p < 0.014). Finally, 10 (20%) patients were diagnosed by PET-MPI as presenting with a myocardial scar but without a corresponding LGE.

Conclusion

In patients with a history of myocarditis, quantitative measurements of myocardial perfusion as obtained from PET-MPI remain altered in areas initially affected by inflammation.

Graphical abstract

CMR = cardiac magnetic resonance; PET = positron emission tomography; LGE = late gadolinium enhancement
Sound velocity and elastic properties of Fe–Ni–S–Si liquid: the effects of pressure and multiple light elements
Authors: Yamada Iori , Terasaki Hidenori , Urakawa Satoru , Kondo Tadashi , Machida Akihiko , Tange Yoshinori , Higo Yuji
Published: July 2023

Fe–Ni–S–Si alloy is considered to be one of the plausible candidates of Mercury core material. Elastic properties of Fe–Ni–S–Si liquid are important to reveal the density profile of the Mercury core. In this study, we measured the P-wave velocity (VP) of Fe–Ni–S–Si (Fe73Ni10S10Si7, Fe72Ni10S5Si13, and Fe67Ni10S10Si13) liquids up to 17 GPa and 2000 K to study the effects of pressure, temperature, and multiple light elements (S and Si) on the VP and elastic properties.

The VP of Fe–Ni–S–Si liquids are less sensitive to temperature. The effect of pressure on the VP are close to that of liquid Fe and smaller than those of Fe–Ni–S and Fe–Ni–Si liquids. Obtained elastic properties are KS0 = 99.1(9.4) GPa, KS’ = 3.8(0.1) and ρ0 =6.48 g/cm3 for S-rich Fe73Ni10S10Si7 liquid and KS0 = 112.1(1.5) GPa, KS’ = 4.0(0.1) and ρ0=6.64 g/cm3 for Si-rich Fe72Ni10S5Si13 liquid. The VP of Fe–Ni–S–Si liquids locate in between those of Fe–Ni–S and Fe–Ni–Si liquids. This suggests that the effect of multiple light element (S and Si) on the VP is suppressed and cancel out the effects of single light elements (S and Si) on the VP. The effect of composition on the EOS in the Fe–Ni–S–Si system is indispensable to estimate the core composition combined with the geodesy data of upcoming Mercury mission.
A convenient scoring system to distinguish intrahepatic mass-forming cholangiocarcinoma from solitary colorectal liver metastasis based on magnetic resonance imaging features
Authors: Shen Keren , Mo Weixing , Wang Xiaojie , Shi Dan , Qian Wei , Sun Jihong , Yu Risheng
Published: July 2023

Objectives

To develop and validate a diagnostic scoring system to differentiate intrahepatic mass-forming cholangiocarcinoma (IMCC) from solitary colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM).

Methods

A total of 366 patients (263 in the training cohort, 103 in the validation cohort) who underwent MRI examination with pathologically proven either IMCC or CRLM from two centers were included. Twenty-eight MRI features were collected. Univariate analyses and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify independent predictors for distinguishing IMCC from solitary CRLM. The independent predictors were weighted over based on regression coefficients to build a scoring system. The overall score distribution was divided into three groups to show the diagnostic probability of CRLM.

Results

Six independent predictors, including hepatic capsular retraction, peripheral hepatic enhancement, vessel penetrating the tumor, upper abdominal lymphadenopathy, peripheral washout at the portal venous phase, and rim enhancement at the portal venous phase were included in the system. All predictors were assigned 1 point. At a cutoff of 3 points, AUCs for this score model were 0.948 and 0.903 with sensitivities of 96.5% and 92.0%, specificities of 84.4% and 71.7%, positive predictive values of 87.7% and 75.4%, negative predictive values of 95.4% and 90.5%, and accuracies of 90.9% and 81.6% for the training and validation cohorts, respectively. An increasing trend was shown in the diagnostic probability of CRLM among the three groups based on the score.

Conclusions

The established scoring system is reliable and convenient for distinguishing IMCC from solitary CRLM using six MRI features.

Clinical relevance statement

A reliable and convenient scoring system was developed to differentiate between intrahepatic mass-forming cholangiocarcinoma from solitary colorectal liver metastasis using six MRI features.

Key Points

• Characteristic MRI features were identified to distinguish intrahepatic mass-forming cholangiocarcinoma (IMCC) from solitary colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM).

• A model to distinguish IMCC from solitary CRLM was created based on 6 features, including hepatic capsular retraction, upper abdominal lymphadenopathy, peripheral washout at the portal venous phase, rim enhancement at the portal venous phase, peripheral hepatic enhancement, and vessel penetrating the tumor.
Efficient ultrafast photoacoustic transduction on Tantalum thin films
Authors: Kaleris Konstantinos , Kaniolakis-Kaloudis Emmanouil , Kaselouris Evaggelos , Kosma Kyriaki , Gagaoudakis Emmanouil , Binas Vassilis , Petrakis Stelios , Dimitriou Vasilis , Bakarezos Makis , Tatarakis Michael , Papadogiannis Nektarios A.
Published: July 2023

Nano-acoustic strain generation in thin metallic films via ultrafast laser excitation is widely used in material science, imaging and medical applications. Recently, it was shown that transition metals, such as titanium, exhibit enhanced photoacoustic transduction properties compared to noble metals, such as silver. This work presents experimental results and simulations that demonstrate that among transition metals tantalum exhibits superior photoacoustic properties. Experiments of nano-acoustic strain generation by femtosecond laser pulses focused on thin tantalum films deposited on Silicon substrates are presented. The nano-acoustic strains are measured via pump-probe transient reflectivity that captures the Brillouin oscillations produced by photon–phonon interactions. The observed Brillouin oscillations are correlated to the photoacoustic transduction efficiency of the tantalum thin film and compared to the performance of titanium thin films, clearly demonstrating the superior photoacoustic transduction efficiency of tantalum. The findings are supported by computational results on the laser-induced strains and their propagation in these thin metal film/substrate systems using a two-temperature model in combination with thermo-mechanical finite element analysis. Finally, the role of the metal transducer-substrate acoustic impedance matching is discussed and the possibility to generate appropriately modulated acoustic pulse trains inside the crystalline substrate structures for the development of crystalline undulators used for γ-ray generation is presented.
Personal experience with the remote check telehealth in cochlear implant users: from COVID-19 emergency to routine service
Authors: Carner Marco , Bianconi Luca , Fulco Gianfranco , Confuorto Gennaro , Soloperto Davide , Molteni Gabriele , Sacchetto Luca
Published: July 2023

Purpose

To critically illustrate the personal experience with using the “Remote Check” application which remotely monitors the hearing rehabilitation level of cochlear implant users at home and further allows clinicians to schedule in-clinic sessions according to the patients’ needs.

Methods

12-month prospective study. Eighty adult cochlear implant users (females n = 37, males n = 43; age range 20–77 years) with ≥ 36 months of cochlear implant experience and ≥ 12 months of stable auditory and speech recognition level volunteered for this 12-month long prospective study. For each patient, at the beginning of the study during the in-clinic session to assess the stable aided hearing thresholds and the cochlear implant integrity and patient’s usage, the “Remote Check” assessment baseline values were obtained. “Remote Check” outcomes were collected at different times in the subsequent at-home sessions, to identify the patients that had to reach the Center. Chi-square test has been used for statistical analysis of the comparison of the “Remote Check” outcomes and in-clinic session results.

Results

“Remote Check” application outcomes demonstrated minimal or no differences between all sessions. The at-home Remote Check application reached the same clinical outcomes as the in-clinic sessions in 79 out 80 of participants (99%) with high statistical significance (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

“Remote Check” application supported hearing monitoring in cochlear implant users that were not able to attend the in-clinic review during COVID-19 pandemic time. This study demonstrates that the application can be a useful routine tool also for clinical follow-up of cochlear implant users with stable aided hearing.
N-Acetylcysteine combined with prednisolone treatment shows better hearing outcome than treatment with prednisolone alone for patients with idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Kouka Mussab , Bevern Nils , Bitter Julia , Guntinas-Lichius Orlando
Published: July 2023

Objectives

Internationally, corticosteroids are still the mainstay treatment for patients with idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSHL). This is a retrospective monocentric study investing the impact of adding N-acetylcysteine (NAC) to prednisolone treatment on patients with ISSHL at a tertiary university otorhinolaryngology department.

Methods

793 patients (median age 60 years; 50.9% women) with a new diagnosis of ISSHL from 2009 to 2015 were included in the study. 663 patients received NAC administration in addition to standard tapered prednisolone treatment. Univariate and multivariable analysis were performed to identify independent factors regarding negative prognosis of hearing recovery.

Results

Mean initial ISSHL and hearing gain after treatment in 10-tone pure tone audiometry (PTA) were 54.8 ± 34.5 dB and 15.2 ± 21.2 dB, respectively. In univariate analysis, treatment with prednisolone and NAC was associated with a positive prognosis of hearing recovery in the Japan classification in 10-tone PTA. In multivariable analysis on Japan classification in 10-tone PTA including all significant factors from univariate analysis, negative prognosis of hearing recovery were age > median (odds ratio [OR] 1.648; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.139–2.385; p = 0.008), diseased opposite ear (OR 3.049; CI 2.157–4.310; p < 0.001), pantonal ISSHL (OR 1.891; CI 1.309–2.732; p = 0.001) and prednisolone alone without NAC treatment (OR 1.862; CI 1.200–2.887; p = 0.005).

Conclusions

Prednisolone treatment combined with NAC resulted in better hearing outcomes in patients with ISSHL than treatment without NAC.
3D printed skulls in court — a benefit to stakeholders?
Authors: Henningsen Mikkel Jon , Thorlacius-Ussing Lykke , Jensen Lotte Groth , Hansen Kasper , Jacobsen Christina , Lou Stina , Villa Chiara
Published: July 2023

Forensic pathologists may use 3D prints as demonstrative aids when providing expert testimony in court of law, but the effects remain unclear despite many assumed benefits. In this qualitative study, the effects of using a 3D print, demonstrating a blunt force skull fracture, in court were explored by thematic analysis of interviews with judges, prosecutors, defence counsels, and forensic pathologists with the aim of improving the expert testimony. Five semi-structured focus groups and eight one-to-one interviews with a total of 29 stakeholders were transcribed ad verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis. The study found that a highly accurate 3D print of a skull demonstrated autopsy findings in detail and provided a quick overview, but sense of touch was of little benefit as the 3D print had different material characteristics than the human skull. Virtual 3D models were expected to provide all the benefits of 3D prints, be less emotionally confronting, and be logistically feasible. Both 3D prints and virtual 3D models were expected to be less emotionally confronting than autopsy photos. Regardless of fidelity, an expert witness was necessary to translate technical language and explain autopsy findings, and low-fidelity models may be equally suited as demonstrative aids. The court infrequently challenged the expert witnesses’ conclusions and, therefore, rarely had a need for viewing autopsy findings in detail, therefore rarely needing a 3D print.
The impact of bone graft type used to fill bone defects in patients undergoing ACL reconstruction with bone–patellar tendon–bone (BPTB) autograft on kneeling, anterior knee pain and knee functional outcomes
Authors: Fares Ali , Hardy Alexandre , Bohu Yoann , Meyer Alain , Karam Karam , Lefevre Nicolas
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Multiple different materials are used for filling bone defects following bone–patellar tendon–bone (BPTB) graft ACL reconstruction surgery. The theoretical objective being to minimize kneeling pain, improve clinical outcomes and reduce anterior knee pain following surgery. The impact of these materials is assessed in this study.

Methods

A prospective monocentric cohort study was conducted from January 2018 to March 2020. There were 128 skeletally mature athletic patients who underwent ACL reconstruction using the same arthroscopic-assisted BPTB technique, with a minimum follow-up of two years identified in our database. After obtaining approval from the local ethics committee, 102 patients were included in the study. Patients were divided into three groups based on type of bone substitute. The Bioactive glass 45S5 ceramic Glassbone™ (GB), collagen and hydroxyapatite bone void filler in sponge form Collapat® II (CP), and treated human bone graft Osteopure®(OP) bone substitutes were used according to availability. Clinical evaluation of patients at follow-up was performed using the WebSurvey software. A questionnaire completed in the 2nd post-operative year included three items: The ability to kneel, the presence of donor site pain, and the palpation of a defect. Another assessment tool included the IKDC subjective score and Lysholm score. These two tools were completed by patients preoperatively, and postoperatively on three occasions (6 months, 1 year, and 2 years).

Results

A total of 102 patients were included in this study. In terms of Kneeling pain, the percentage of GB and CP patients’ who kneel with ease were much higher than that of OP patients (77.78%, 76.5% vs 65.6%, respectively). All three groups experienced an important increase in IKDC and Lysholm scores. There was no difference in anterior knee pain between the groups.

Conclusion

The use of Glassbone® and Collapat II® bone substitutes reduced the incidence of kneeling pain compared to Osteopure®. There was no influence of the bone substitute type on the functional outcome of the knee or on the anterior knee pain at two years of follow.
Visceral symptoms in patients with anterior cutaneous nerve entrapment syndrome (ACNES): expression of viscerosomatic reflexes?
Authors: Jacobs Monica L. Y. E. , Janssen Loes , Stassen Laurents P. S. , Scheltinga Marc R. M. , Roumen Rudi M. H.
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Anterior cutaneous nerve entrapment (ACNES) is characterized by neuropathic pain in a predictable, circumscript abdominal area. The diagnostic delay is long, with half of ACNES-affected individuals reporting nausea, bloating, or loss of appetite mimicking visceral disease. The aim of this study was to describe these phenomena and to determine whether treatment could successfully reverse the visceral symptoms.

Methods

This prospective observational study was conducted between July 2017 and December 2020 at SolviMáx, Center of Excellence for Chronic Abdominal Wall and Groin Pain, Máxima Medical Center, Eindhoven. Adult patients who fulfilled published criteria for ACNES and reported at least one visceral symptom at intake were eligible for the study. A self-developed Visceral Complaints ACNES Score (VICAS) questionnaire that scores several visceral symptoms (minimum 1 point, maximum 9 points) was completed before and after therapy. The success of treatment was defined as at least 50% reduction in pain.

Results

Data from 100 selected patients (86 females) aged 39 ± 5 years were available for analysis. Frequently reported symptoms were abdominal bloating (78%), nausea (66%) and altered defecation (50%). Successful treatment significantly reduced the number of visceral symptoms, with a VICAS before of 3 (range 1–8) and after of 1 (range 0–6) (p < 0.001). A low baseline VICAS was associated with successful treatment outcome (OR 0.738, 95% CI 0.546–0.999).

Conclusion

Patients with ACNES may report a variety of visceral symptoms. Successful treatment substantially reduces these visceral symptoms in selected patients.
A free boundary problem for the p-Laplacian with nonlinear boundary conditions
Authors: Acampora P. , Cristoforoni E.
Published: July 2023

We study a nonlinear generalization of a free boundary problem that arises in the context of thermal insulation. We consider two open sets $$\Omega \subseteq A$$

Ω
⊆
A

, and we search for an optimal A in order to minimize a nonlinear energy functional, whose minimizers u satisfy the following conditions: $$\Delta _p u=0$$

Δ
p

u
=
0

inside $$A{\setminus }\Omega $$

A
\
Ω

, $$u=1$$

u
=
1

in $$\Omega $$
Ω
, and a nonlinear Robin-like boundary (p, q)-condition on the free boundary $$\partial A$$

∂
A

. We study the variational formulation of the problem in $${{\,\textrm{SBV}\,}}$$

SBV

, and we prove that, under suitable conditions on the exponents p and q, a minimizer exists and its jump set satisfies uniform density estimates.
Type 2 cytokines and scleroderma interstitial lung disease
Authors: Pellicano Chiara , Vantaggio Lorenzo , Colalillo Amalia , Pocino Krizia , Basile Valerio , Marino Mariapaola , Basile Umberto , Rosato Edoardo
Published: July 2023

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a life-threatening complication of systemic sclerosis (SSc). Type 2 (Th2) cytokines play a pivotal role in airway disease. Study aim was to evaluate serum level of Th2 interleukin (IL) and chemokine in SSc-ILD. Serum levels of IL-4, IL-5, IL-11, IL-13, IL-21, IL-31 and CXCL-13 were measured by Bio-Plex Multiplex Immunoassays in 60 SSc patients and 20 healthy controls (HC). Pulmonary function tests with diffusion lung capacity for carbon monoxide (DLco) and high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) were performed in SSc patients. ILD is defined as fibrotic changes (ground glass, reticular and honeycombing), assessed by Computer-Aided Lung Informatics for Pathology Evaluation and Ratings (CALIPER) software, affecting at least 10% of the lungs. Serum levels of Th2 cytokines were higher in SSc patients than HC. A linear correlation was observed between ground glass and IL-13 (r = 0.342, p < 0.01), IL-21 (r = 0.345, p < 0.01), IL-31 (r = 0.473, p < 0.001), IL-4 (r = 0.863, p < 0.001), IL-5 (r = 0.249, p < 0.05) and peripheral blood eosinophils (r = 0.463, p < 0.001). We found a negative correlation between DLco and IL-4 (r =  − 0.511, p < 0.001) and peripheral blood eosinophils (r =  − 0.446, p < 0.001). In the logistic regression analysis, IL-4 is associated with DLco ≤ 60% of the predicted [OR 1.039 (CI 95%: 1.015–1.064), p < 0.001], whilst mRSS [OR 1.138 (CI 95%: 1.023–1.266), p < 0.05] and IL-4 [OR 1.017 (CI 95%: 1–1.034), p < 0.05] were associated with ILD. Th2 inflammation could play a key role in early phase of SSc-ILD.
Length of the period with late life dependency: Does the age of onset make a difference?
Authors: Kelfve Susanne , Wastesson Jonas W. , Meinow Bettina
Published: July 2023

There is a gap in knowledge about factors associated with the duration of late life dependency. In this study, we measured how the age at onset of late life dependency relates to the time spent with late life dependency. Using Swedish register data, we identified people 70 + who entered the period of late life dependency (measured by entering long-term care for help with PADLs) between June and December 2008. We followed this cohort (n = 17,515) for 7 years, or until death. We used Laplace regression models to estimate the median number of months with late life dependency by age group, gender, level of education and country of birth. We also calculated the crude percentiles (p10, p25, p50, p75 and p90) of month with late life dependency, by age group, gender and cohabitation status. Results show that the majority spent a rather long period with dependency, the median number of months were 40.0 (3.3 years) for women and 22.6 (1.9 year) for men. A higher age at entry was associated with a shorter duration of dependency, an association that was robust to adjustment for cohabiting at baseline, gender, education and country of birth. Our results suggest that older adults who postpone the start of dependency also compress the time with dependency, this lends support to the ambitions of public health initiatives and interventions targeting maintained independence in older adults.
Documenting the biodiversity of edible grasshoppers in South Africa with traditional knowledge, classic taxonomy and genetic information
Authors: O’Hare Michaela , Hugel Sylvain , Hendrickse Megan , Greyling Christi , Egan Bronwyn , van Asch Barbara
Published: July 2023

The diversity of edible grasshoppers worldwide remains largely undocumented due to inconsistent reporting of ethno- and scientific species, and paucity of reference DNA sequences. This study uses traditional knowledge and scientific methods for identification of ethnospecies, taxonomic species, and phylogenetic groups that likely represent genetic species. Community members in the Limpopo province of South Africa assisted with specimen collection (n = 176) and identification of 34 ethnospecies (i.e. vernacular names given by the local communities). Scientific taxa were identified by alpha taxonomy and DNA barcode sequence queries on BOLD Systems and GenBank. Genetic groups likely representing distinct species were determined by phylogenetic analysis and intragroup p-distances. Acrididae dominated the dataset with nine subfamilies and 17 genera represented. Database queries yielded high sequence similarity/identity matches (> 95%) for only 58.6% of the sequences on BOLD and 37.1% on GenBank, thus highlighting the low representation of African Orthoptera in public repositories. Phylogenetic analysis and pairwise distances revealed 36 genetic groups likely representing distinct species. Comparison of the results obtained from the different sources of information showed incomplete overlap, and numerous inconsistencies. Despite the difficulties, the overall diversity of edible grasshoppers traditionally utilized in South Africa is higher than previously reported. This work may inform future studies for documenting edible insects in Africa and other world regions.
Just How Radical Is Radical: Children’s Picture Books and Trans Youth
Authors: Bedford Alison , Brömdal Annette , Kerby Martin , Baguley Margaret
Published: July 2023

This paper analyses the Australian children’s picture books The Gender Fairy, by Jo Hirst and Libby Wirt, and Introducing Teddy: A Gentle Story About Gender and Friendship, by Jess Walton and Dougal MacPherson. Both are examples of a rare engagement by Australian children’s authors and illustrators; indeed, Hirst has the distinction of being the first Australian author of a picture book with a trans protagonist. The authors and illustrators engage with trans issues within a socio-political context that continues to problematise gender identity, particularly when it pertains to young children. To circumvent at least some of the controversy their efforts might generate, the authors and illustrators balance the radical potential of their subject matter with the perceived needs of the marketplace and the constraints imposed by the genre. In doing so, they create books that are radical, but not so radical that they generate controversy that obscures their message.
Precipitates evolution during isothermal aging and its effect on tensile properties for an AFA alloy containing W and B elements
Authors: Shu Ming , Zhou Qin , Xiao Jun , Zhou Zhangjian , Sun Yongduo , Chen Le , Zhao Ke , Xiao Ting
Published: July 2023

A 20Cr-25Ni-2.5Al alumina-forming austenitic alloy containing W and B elements was aged at 923 K for 5000 h, and the microstructure and tensile properties with different aging time were investigated. NiAl, σ and Laves were observed at grain boundaries (GBs) successively. The matrix was covered by NiAl and Laves with the extension of aging. The evolution of precipitates during aging contributed to the variation of tensile properties. Precipitation of nanosized NbC carbides within grains and σ phase at GBs led to a rapid increase in strength and a decrease in elongation for 500 h aging sample. In the later stage of aging, the coarsening of NiAl and Laves phases, as well as the reduction in dislocation density caused a decline in strength. The coarsening of precipitates upon aging time follows the Ostwald ripening theory. Due to its lower diffusion rate in austenite compared to Mo, W may accelerate the growth of Laves at GBs. Boron was mainly enriched in Laves instead of NiAl, NbC and σ phases after high temperature aging. The addition of W and B improved the precipitation strengthening of Laves, increasing the high temperature tensile strength after long term thermal aging. The difference in tensile properties between room temperature and 923 K is due to the ductile–brittle transition of NiAl. No σ phase was observed within grains even after 5000 h aging and elemental chromium particles occurred around Laves due to boron hindering the growth of σ.
Extraction of humic acid from peat and lignite and the thermal behavior of their mixtures with ammonium nitrate
Authors: Nieweś Dominik , Biegun Marcin , Huculak-Mączka Marta , Marecka Kinga , Kaniewski Maciej , Zieliński Jakub , Hoffmann Józef
Published: July 2023

Due to the positive effect on soil structure and the influence on improving the efficiency of plant roots nutrient uptake, humic acids (HA) are widely considered for fertilizer production. Especially, it seems to be particularly promising to use them as additives in technologies of mineral fertilizer production. One of the common mineral fertilizer components, due to its good water solubility and the presence of nitrogen in two forms, is ammonium nitrate (AN). The aim of this study was to determine the influence of the humic acids extracted from peat and lignite on the thermal decomposition of HA and the thermal decomposition of ammonium nitrate and humic acids mixtures. For the quality assessment of HA, spectroscopic methods (FTIR/ATR and CP/MAS 13C NMR) and analysis of elemental composition were used. The analysis of the spectra showed differences in the degree of humification of humic acids extracted from various raw materials. HA isolated from peat were distinguished by the presence of peptides, polysaccharides, and lignin residues. Elemental analysis showed the higher carbon and sulfur content in the extracted HA compared to the reference samples. The results of the TG-DTA-MS analysis confirmed the influence of differences in the molecular structure of humic acids, especially in the aliphatic and aromatic carbon content, on the thermal decomposition process. Total content of carboxylic and/or hydroxylic functional groups had a significant impact on the start of the decomposition temperature. Their increase visibly influenced the acceleration of the exothermic decomposition of AN.
A computational study to identify Sesamol derivatives as NRF2 activator for protection against drug-induced liver injury (DILI)
Authors: Mili Ajay , Birangal Sumit , Nandakumar Krishnadas , Lobo Richard
Published: July 2023

Drug-induced liver injury can be caused by any drugs, their metabolites, or natural products due to the inefficient functioning of drug-metabolizing enzymes, resulting in reactive oxygen species generation and leading to oxidative stress-induced cell death. For protection against oxidative stress, our cell has various defense mechanisms. One of the mechanisms is NRF2 pathway, when activated, protects the cell against oxidative stress. Natural antioxidants such as Sesamol have reported pharmacological activity (hepatoprotective & cardioprotective) and signaling pathways (NRF2 & CREM) altering potential. A Computational analysis was done using molecular docking, IFD, ADMET, MM-GBSA, and Molecular dynamic simulation of the Schrödinger suite. A total of 63,345 Sesamol derivatives were downloaded for the PubChem database. The protein structure of KEAP1-NRF2 (PDB: 4L7D) was downloaded from the RCSB protein database. The molecular docking technique was used to screen compounds that can form an interaction similar to the co-crystalized ligand (1VX). Based on MM-GBSA, docking score, and interactions, ten compounds were selected for ADMET profiling and IFD. After IFD, five compounds (66867225, 46148111, 12444939, 123892179, & 94817569) were selected for molecular dynamics simulation (MDS). Protein–ligand complex stability was assessed during MDS. The selected compounds (66867225, 46148111, 12444939, 123892179, & 94817569) complex with KEAP1 protein shows good stability and bond retentions. In our study, we observed that the selected compounds show good interaction, PCA, Rg, binding free energy, and ADMET profile. We can conclude that the selected compounds can act as NRF2 activators, which should be validated using proper in-vivo/in-vitro models.

Graphical abstract