bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Theoretische Bezugspunkte
Authors: Holztrattner Melanie
Published: April 2024

Dass die Bestimmung des Begriffs (früher) Kindheit keineswegs so deutlich – und schon gar nicht historisch überdauernd – ist, wie auf den ersten Augenblick vielleicht angenommen, zeigt sich spätestens ab der zweiten Hälfte des 20. Jahrhunderts in Rückgriff auf die Analysen von Philippe Ariès (1984), der auf den erheblichen historischen Wandel von Kindheit(sverständnissen) verweist. Auch gegenwärtig scheint es nach wie vor nicht möglich zu sein, das Konzept (früher) Kindheit in seinem ontologischen Kern und seiner Konturierung klar zu bestimmen: „Im Alltagsgebrauch ist es unproblematisch, aber bei einer genaueren Definition und Klärung der Konzepte wird es doch schnell schwierig – wenn nicht sogar unmöglich“.
Positivity of the hypergeometric Coon amplitude
Authors: Wang Bo
Published: April 2024

Abstract

We utilize a novel method for the partial-wave unitarity recently suggested in [1] to analyse the hypergeometric Coon amplitude. In this approach we use a new type of harmonic numbers as a basis. Owing to the properties of the harmonic numbers this method bypasses lots of difficulties and can be used to derive a clear and unified form for the partial-wave coefficients. This new approach further streamlines the partial-wave unitarity analysis. As an instance, we re-derive the unitarity bounds from Regge trajectory analysis and find the new critical condition of the hypergeometric Coon amplitude. Our new method also benefits the discussion on the various limits of this amplitude. Specifically, we demonstrate the manifest positivity of super string below d ≤ 10 from our new perspective.
Analysis of a Sturm–Liouville Problem Arising in Atmosphere
Authors: Marynets Kateryna
Published: April 2024

We present recent results in study of a mathematical model of the sea-breeze flow, arising from a general model of the ’morning glory’ phenomena. Based on analysis of the Dirichlet spectrum of the corresponding Sturm–Liouville problem and application of the Fredholm alternative, we establish conditions of existence/uniqueness of solutions to the given problem.
Quality of orthodontic care—A multicenter cohort study in a German convenience sample
Authors: Graf Isabelle , Bock Niko Christian , Bartzela Theodosia , Röper Vera , Schumann Uwe , Reck Karl , Helms Hans-Joachim , Hoefer Karolin , Fritz Ulrike , Wolf Michael , Wiechmann Dirk , Jost-Brinkmann Paul-Georg , Ruf Sabine , Braumann Bert
Published: April 2024

Objectives

In light of the growing interest in orthodontic care and its effectiveness in Germany, part 2 of this multicenter cohort study evaluated patient-reported outcomes such as oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL), oral hygiene habits, oral health beliefs, and potential influencing factors.

Methods

Of 586 patients screened from seven German study centers, data from 343 patients were analyzed for this part of the study. At the end of their orthodontic treatment, study participants filled out a questionnaire of either the German long version of the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-G 49) or the German short version of the Child Oral Health Impact Profile (COHIP-19), depending on their age, as well as questions about their oral hygiene behavior and beliefs. Patient-, treatment- and occlusion-related factors were analyzed to account for potential influencing factors with regard to patients’ OHRQoL after orthodontic treatment.

Results

In all, 222 study participants filled out the OHIP-based and 121 the COHIP-based questionnaire. The mean OHIP-G 49 score was 12.68 and the mean OHIP-G 14 score was 3.09; the mean COHIP-19 score was 6.52 (inverted score 69.48). For OHIP-G 49 scores, a nonsignificant trend towards a higher score for male patients (14.45 vs 11.54; p = 0.061) was detected, while this trend was inverse for the COHIP-19 scores, i.e., female patients reported more impairment (total score 6.99 vs. 5.84; p = 0.099). Analyses suggested a trend towards better OHRQoL for patients who classified for the Peer Assessment Rating (PAR) Index improvement rate group ‘greatly improved’ as well as for nonsmokers. Oral hygiene habits and beliefs after orthodontic treatment were estimated to be good.

Conclusion

In this German cohort, OHRQoL proved to be good and was rather unimpaired after orthodontic treatment. Furthermore, self-reported oral hygiene behavior and oral health beliefs represented good health awareness.
Die neue Weiterbildungsordnung – eine Herausforderung für die Viszeralchirurgie
Authors: Schardey Josefine , Hüttl Florentine , Jacobsen Anne , Brunner Stefanie , Tripke Verena , Wirth Ulrich , Werner Jens , Kalff Jörg C. , Sommer Nils , Huber Tobias
Published: April 2024

Hintergrund

Die neue kompetenzbasierte Weiterbildungsordnung (nWBO) für chirurgische Weiterbildungen wurde mittlerweile von allen deutschen Landesärztekammern übernommen.

Methoden

Von Mai bis Juni 2023 führte die Arbeitsgemeinschaft Junge Chirurgie (CAJC) eine anonymisierte Onlineumfrage unter den 5896 Mitgliedern der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Allgemein- und Viszeralchirurgie (DGAV) durch.

Ziel

Ziel der Arbeit war es, die Erwartungen an die nWBO zu erfassen und Lösungsstrategien zur Verbesserung der chirurgischen Weiterbildung zu entwickeln.

Ergebnisse

488 Teilnehmende (Rücklaufquote 8,3 %) bedeuten eine repräsentative Studie. Die Befragten setzten sich aus 107 Weiterbildungsassistent:innen (WBA 21,9 %), 69 Fachärzt:innen und 188 Oberärzt:innen (FÄ 14,1 % und OÄ 38,5 %) sowie 107 Chefärzt:innen (21,9 %) zusammen. Die Mehrheit war in Regelversorgern (44 %) tätig, gefolgt von Maximalversorgern (26,8 %) und Universitätsklinika (20,1 %). Nur 22 % halten das geforderte operative Spektrum der nWBO für realistisch. Die Hälfte der Befragten gibt an, dass die volle Weiterbildung in ihrer Klinik gemäß dem neuen Katalog nicht mehr möglich sein wird. 54,6 % halten eine Erreichbarkeit der Richtzahlen in 6 Jahren für unmöglich bzw. geben an, nicht mehr die gleiche Anzahl von WBAs in der gleichen Zeit ausbilden zu können. Einheitlich über alle Versorgungsstufen wurde die Endoskopie (17,1–18,8 %), Fundoplikationen (15,4–17,7 %) und Kopf-Hals-Eingriffe (12,1–17,1 %) als Engstellen genannt. Rotationen wurden laut Angaben bereits zu 64,7 % etabliert. 48 % gaben an, dass in der Abteilung das Teilschrittekonzept etabliert sei. Die Bedeutung eines strukturierten Weiterbildungskonzepts wurde von 85 % der WBA als wichtig erachtet, im Vergleich zu 53,3 % der CÄ. Lag ein strukturiertes Weiterbildungskonzept in der Abteilung vor, so wurde die Erreichbarkeit der Richtzahlen in der univariaten Analyse signifikant positiver eingeschätzt. In der multivariaten Analyse waren das männliche Geschlecht sowie der Status „habilitiert/Professor:in“ unabhängige Faktoren für eine positivere Einschätzung der nWBO. Eine objektive Zertifizierung der Weiterbildung wurde von 51,5 % als wichtig angesehen.

Schlussfolgerung

Die nWBO bereitet Sorgen und die Stimmung ist pessimistisch. Zusätzliche Vorgaben und Krankenhausreformen könnten die Lage verschärfen. Kooperationen und Rotationen sind entscheidend, aber noch nicht ausreichend umgesetzt. Qualitätsorientierte Zertifizierungen könnten die Ausbildungsqualität verbessern.
Development of bentonite-based organo-geopolymer hybrid wood binder
Authors: Gonultas Oktay
Published: April 2024

The study addresses concerns associated with formaldehyde-based adhesives in wood panel board production by proposing geopolymer-based wood binders as promising, formaldehyde-free alternatives. Using bentonite, the research delves into the development and performance properties of this geopolymer wood binder. The BET method was employed for the surface characterization of precursor raw materials for binder preparation. Si and Al elements identified through XRF analysis were correlated with characteristic bands in the FTIR spectrum. Alkaline activation solutions, employing sodium silicate and sodium hydroxide with a molar ratio range of 0.5 to 2.5 (SiO2:Na2O), revealed that binders with a molar ratio of 2.5 exhibited lower pH and higher adhesion strength. Different geopolymer formulations at solution to powder ratios (s/p) of 1.33, 3, and 3.5 determined s/p 3.5 as optimal for bentonite-based organo-geopolymer binders. Viscosity, gel time, pH, and solids content were examined, showing the effectiveness of substituting 10% silica fume to enhance the geopolymerization process and improve adhesion. Modifications using citric acid, sucrose, paraffin, pMDI, triacetin, and resorcinol demonstrated wet bonding strength comparable to urea formaldehyde adhesive. Analytical techniques, including FTIR spectroscopy, XRD analysis, and SEM EDX analysis, provided insights into functional groups, crystallographic properties, and microstructural characteristics. The concentration of Si and Al compounds on the bonding line, coupled with Na element diffusion, was observed through these analyses. Light microscopy of lap shear samples revealed a thinner bonding line, affirming effective binder penetration into wood cell lumens in bentonite-based organo-geopolymer binder formulations.
Strukturen, Ziele und Bedürfnisse der Early Career Scientists am Deutschen Zentrum für Psychische Gesundheit
Authors: Liu Shuyan , Behrens Simone C. , Besteher Bianca , Bilek Edda , Chae Woo Ri , Clemens Vera , Korn Christoph , Pflug Verena , Richter Anni , Selle Janine , O’Sullivan Julie L. , von Brachel Ruth , Totzeck Christina , Brandhorst Isabel
Published: April 2024

Hintergrund

Early Career Scientists (ECS) sind Akteur:innen des Wandels und treibende Kräfte in der Förderung psychischer Gesundheit. Das Deutsche Zentrum für Psychische Gesundheit (DZPG) ist eine wichtige Initiative zur Begleitung und Unterstützung von Karrieren im Bereich der psychischen Gesundheit.

Ziel

ECS sollen mithilfe des DZPG in einer interdisziplinären und interinstitutionellen wissenschaftlichen Gemeinschaft gefördert und engagiert werden.

Strukturen, Themen und Initiativen

Das ECS-Board, bestehend aus 18 gewählten ECS-Vertreter:innen, spielt hierfür im DZPG eine zentrale Rolle. Die ECS-Kultur gibt den Mitgliedern eine Mitbestimmungsstruktur, unterstützt Ideen und bekennt sich zu Autonomie. Die sog. DZPG-Akademie wurde entwickelt, um Kommunikation und Vernetzung zu erleichtern und Zusammenarbeit zu fördern. Das DZPG vertritt Schlüsselthemen wie Gleichstellung, Vielfalt, Inklusion, Familienfreundlichkeit und Work-Life-Balance. Das DZPG bietet den ECS Möglichkeiten, zeitgemäße und notwendige Fähigkeiten und Kompetenzen zu entwickeln. Es erweitert die bundesweite Unterstützung für ECS um Fördermöglichkeiten, Unterstützung psychischer Gesundheit am Arbeitsplatz sowie Karriereberatung. Das ECS-Board engagiert sich für Patient:innen- und Öffentlichkeitsbeteiligung und -mitwirkung, Wissenschaftskommunikation sowie den Wissenstransfer in verschiedene Bereiche.

Schlussfolgerungen

Das DZPG wird unter Beteiligung der ECS Trainingsprogramme, den Studierenden- und Akademiker:innenaustausch, Forschungskooperationen und die Bündelung von Ressourcen zur Einwerbung von Fördermitteln und Stipendien fördern. Es wird außerdem die Einrichtung von Knotenpunkten für ECS-Netzwerke unterstützen und den Ausbau der internationalen Kompetenz der ECS in Deutschland fördern.
Socioeconomic status, alcohol use and the role of social support and neighbourhood environment among individuals meeting criteria for a mental health problem: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Puddephatt Jo-Anne , Jones Andrew , Gage Suzanne H. , Goodwin Laura
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Indicators of socioeconomic status (SES), such as education and occupational grade, are known to be associated with alcohol use but this has not been examined among individuals with a mental health problem. This study developed latent classes of SES, their associations with alcohol use, and examined the indirect effect via social support and neighbourhood environment.

Methods

A secondary analysis of the 2014 Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey was conducted among participants with a mental health problem (N = 1,436). SES classes were determined using a range of indicators. Alcohol use was measured using the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test. Social support and neighbourhood neighbourhood environment were measured using validated questionnaires. A latent class analysis was conducted to develop SES classes. Multinomial logistic regression examined associations of SES and alcohol use. Structural equation models tested indirect effects via social support and neighbourhood environment.

Results

A four-class model of SES was best-fitting; “economically inactive,GCSE-level and lower educated,social renters”, “intermediate/routine occupation,GCSE-level educated,mixed owner/renters”, “retired, no formal education,homeowners”, and “professional occupation,degree-level educated,homeowners”. Compared to “professional occupation,degree-level educated, homeowners”, SES classes were more likely to be non-drinkers; odds were highest for “economically inactive,GCSE-level and lower educated,social renters” (OR = 4.96,95%CI 3.10–7.93). “Retired, no formal education,homeowners” were less likely to be hazardous drinkers (OR = 0.35,95%CI 0.20–0.59). Associations between “economically inactive,GCSE-level and lower educated,social renters” and “retired, no formal education,homeowners” and non- and harmful drinking via social support and neighbourhood environment were significant.

Conclusions

In contrast to the alcohol harms paradox, among individuals with a mental health problem, lower SES groups were more likely to be non-drinkers while no associations with harmful drinking were found. There is also a need to examine the alcohol harms paradox in the context of the area in which they live.
Hybrid decision-making in atmospheric plasma spraying enables human–machine teaming
Authors: Bocklisch Franziska , Bocklisch Steffen F. , Grimm Maximilian , Lampke Thomas , Joshi Shrikant
Published: April 2024

With the development of human-cyber-physical-production systems in intelligent manufacturing, cyber-supported production based on artificial intelligence is becoming an increasingly powerful means of controlling machines and collaborating with human users. Semi-autonomous systems with a medium degree of automation enable human-centered, flexible, and sustainable production, for instance, in hybrid decision-making. Especially in applications that do not meet the requirements for full automation and when humans are to be involved in their role as qualified decision-makers, teaming-capable systems are desirable and offer considerable advantages. This paper outlines the transdisciplinary concept of human–machine teaming and the role of human cognition in engineering tasks with multi-criteria decision-making. An illustrative real-life example from thermal spray technology is used to show how explainable artificial intelligence models offer targeted, hybrid cyber decision support. This new approach based on fuzzy pattern classifiers combines expert knowledge- and data-based modeling and enables a transparent interpretation of the results by the human user, as shown here using the example of test data from atmospheric plasma spraying. The method outlined can potentially be used to provide hybrid decision support for a variety of manufacturing processes and form the basis for advanced automation or teaming of humans and cyber-physical-production systems.
Exploiting image quality measure for automatic trajectory generation in robot-aided visual quality inspection
Authors: Jafari-Tabrizi Atae , Gruber Dieter P. , Gams Andrej
Published: April 2024

Currently, the standard method of programming industrial robots is to perform it manually, which is cumbersome and time-consuming. Thus, it can be a burden for the flexibility of inspection systems when a new component with a different design needs to be inspected. Therefore, developing a way to automate the task of generating a robotic trajectory offers a substantial improvement in the field of automated manufacturing and quality inspection. This paper proposes and evaluates a methodology for automatizing the process of scanning a 3D surface for the purpose of quality inspection using only visual feedback. The paper is divided into three sub-tasks in the same general setting: (1) autonomously finding the optimal distance of the camera on the robot’s end-effector from the surface, (2) autonomously generating a trajectory to scan an unknown surface, and (3) autonomous localization and scan of a surface with a known shape, but with an unknown position. The novelty of this work lies in the application that only uses visual feedback, through the image focus measure, for determination and optimization of the motion. This reduces the complexity and the cost of such a setup. The methods developed have been tested in simulation and in real-world experiments and it was possible to obtain a precision in the optimal pose of the robot under 1 mm in translational, and 0.1$$^\circ $$

∘

in angular directions. It took less than 50 iterations to generate a trajectory for scanning an unknown free-form surface. Finally, with less than 30 iterations during the experiments it was possible to localize the position of the surface. Overall, the results of the proposed methodologies show that they can bring substantial improvement to the task of automatic motion generation for visual quality inspection.
Biotransformation and toxicokinetics of 2-phenoxyethanol after oral exposure in humans: a volunteer study
Authors: Eckert Elisabeth , Jäger Thomas , Hiller Julia , Leibold Edgar , Bader Michael , Göen Thomas
Published: April 2024

2-Phenoxyethanol (PhE) is an aromatic glycol ether and is used in a variety of functions and applications, e.g., as preservative in pharmaceuticals, cosmetic and personal care products, as biocide in disinfectants (e.g. human hygiene), or as a solvent in formulations (e.g. coatings, functional fluids). Despite its widespread use, little is yet known on its biotransformation and toxicokinetics in humans. Therefore, a pilot study was conducted with oral administration of PhE (5 mg/kg body weight) to five volunteers. Blood and urine samples were collected and analyzed for PhE and three of its presumed metabolites up to 48 h post-exposure. Additionally, one volunteer was dermally exposed to PhE and monitored until 72 h post-exposure. PhE was rapidly resorbed following both oral and dermal application with tmax-levels in blood of about 1 h and 3 h, respectively. Metabolism of PhE was observed to be rather extensive with phenoxyacetic acid (PhAA) and 4-hydroxyphenoxyacetic acid (4-OH-PhAA) as the main metabolites found in blood and urine following oral and dermal exposure. PhE was excreted rapidly and efficiently via urine mostly in metabolized form: following oral exposure, on average 77% and 12% of the applied dose was excreted within 48 h as PhAA and 4-OH-PhAA, respectively. A similar metabolism pattern was observed following the single dermal exposure experiment. The obtained data on biotransformation and toxicokinetics of PhE in humans provide valuable information on this important chemical and will be highly useful for pharmacokinetic modelling and evaluation of human PhE exposure.
Clonal expansion of shared T cell receptors reveals the existence of immune commonality among different lesions of synchronous multiple primary lung cancer
Authors: Wang Yadong , Huang Zhicheng , Li Bowen , Xue Jianchao , Guo Chao , Bing Zhongxing , Zheng Zhibo , Song Yang , Xu Yuan , Huang Guanghua , Li Haochen , Yu Xiaoqing , Xia Yankai , Li Ruirui , Si Xiaoyan , Zhang Li , Li Ji , Song Lan , Xiong Yuanyuan , Gu Dejian , Song Mengmeng , Zhou Zhipeng , Chen Rongrong , Feng Zhe , Bie Zhixin , Li Xiaoguang , Yang Huaxia , Li Shanqing , Liang Naixin
Published: April 2024

The increase in the detection rate of synchronous multiple primary lung cancer (MPLC) has posed remarkable clinical challenges due to the limited understanding of its pathogenesis and molecular features. Here, comprehensive comparisons of genomic and immunologic features between MPLC and solitary lung cancer nodule (SN), as well as different lesions of the same patient, were performed. Compared with SN, MPLC displayed a lower rate of EGFR mutation but higher rates of BRAF, MAP2K1, and MTOR mutation, which function exactly in the upstream and downstream of the same signaling pathway. Considerable heterogeneity in T cell receptor (TCR) repertoire exists among not only different patients but also among different lesions of the same patient. Invasive lesions of MPLC exhibited significantly higher TCR diversity and lower TCR expansion than those of SN. Intriguingly, different lesions of the same patient always shared a certain proportion of TCR clonotypes. Significant clonal expansion could be observed in shared TCR clonotypes, particularly in those existing in all lesions of the same patient. In conclusion, this study provided evidences of the distinctive mutational landscape, activation of oncogenic signaling pathways, and TCR repertoire in MPLC as compared with SN. The significant clonal expansion of shared TCR clonotypes demonstrated the existence of immune commonality among different lesions of the same patient and shed new light on the individually tailored precision therapy for MPLC.
Early expansion of mixed oak stands at 16,800–16,600 cal bp at a northern Italian glacial refugium in the Euganean Hills
Authors: Boltshauser-Kaltenrieder Petra , Tinner Willy
Published: April 2024

Continuous sedimentary lake records covering the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) are very rare in Europe. Here, we conducted additional palynological analyses to connect two separate radiocarbon-dated pollen sequences of Lago della Costa (AP2 and AP1) to one complete vegetation history record of the Euganean Hills (“Colli Euganei”, northern Italy) covering the past ca. 32,000 years. Previous studies on autochthonous organic lake sediments revealed that during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) Lago della Costa likely acted as a refugium of temperate woody taxa. Based on the new data we present the first continuous record of the vegetation history of the Euganean Hills during the past 32,000 years. Specifically, we investigate the early establishment and mass expansion of deciduous Quercus at the refugial site at ca. 16,800–16,600 cal bp. In the oak forests other temperate taxa (e.g. Corylus avellana, Abies alba, Ulmus, Fraxinus excelsior, Vitis, Hedera, Tilia, Acer, Fagus sylvatica) also established at around this time, i.e. 2,000 years prior to the onset of the Bølling/Allerød interstadial (about 14,700–12,800 cal bp). The comparison of our data with other well-dated records from the river Po catchment and refugial sites elsewhere in Italy and southern Europe suggests expansions of boreal and nemoral forests over wide areas prior to the Bølling/Allerød interstadial, i.e. 2,000 years before comparable large-scale afforestation north of the Alps or ca. 45°N. Pollen-inferred expansions of temperate tree communities (e.g. oak forests) correspond to a climatic warming as reconstructed from quantitative, pollen-independent evidence (e.g. chironomids) from the Apennines, Northern Italy, Southern Switzerland and the Swiss Plateau, suggesting that pre-Bølling afforestation processes south of the Alps were promoted by increasing (summer) temperatures during the Oldest Dryas.
Harnessing deep learning for faster water quality assessment: identifying bacterial contaminants in real time
Authors: Khokhar Fahad Ahmed , Shah Jamal Hussain , Saleem Rabia , Masood Anum
Published: April 2024

Water is essential for human survival. Humans can live without food for a few days but without water, a person can barely survive for 3–5 days. Various parts of the world, particularly under-developed countries, have regions where clean water is scarce, and humans living in such conditions have no access to clean water. Our solution provides information on whether water is contaminated or not. Moreover, it overcomes the delay time in getting the result of water contamination using traditional methods of up to 5–6 hrs. Our proposed method detects the colonies of the bacteria that are taken from the water sample (after gram staining) and then classifies the type of bacteria to whom it belongs and how much quantity of each bacterium causes infection to the human body. Bacteria detection is performed by a novel deep learning-based model with user-specified parameters. To improve our ability to detect dangerous bacteria including E. coli, yeast, and particles, we perform tests using datasets from a variety of researchers. On the test benchmark, the fine-tuned proposed model achieves 84.56% accuracy and provides the level of contamination in water.
Spanish translation and validation of the Music-Related Quality of Life Questionnaire (MuRQoL) in postlingually deaf cochlear implant users
Authors: Zuazua-Gonzalez Alejandro , Calvino Miryam , Postigo Álvaro , Domingo Carlos , Gavilán Javier , Lassaletta Luis
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to translate and validate the “Music-Related Quality of Life Questionnaire” into Spanish (sMuRQoL) and assess its convergent validity and discriminative capacity by comparing its scores with the outcomes of the musical perception test Meludia.

Methods

The sMuRQoL was completed by 129 patients: 55 cochlear implant (CI) users and 74 normal hearing (NH) individuals. Conducted in this study were an exploratory factor analysis, an evaluation of internal consistency, an assessment of score stability through test–retest reliability, a comparison of sMuRQoL scores between CI users and NH individuals and an examination of potential evidence of convergent validity and discriminative capacity of sMuRQoL in relation to other tools. This involved the comparison of the questionnaire scores with the Meludia outcomes.

Results

The sMuRQoL demonstrated a two-dimensional structure. All the dimensions displayed high internal consistency (α = 0.879–0.945) and score stability (ICC = 0.890–0.942). There were significant differences in the Frequency test between NH and CI users (d = 1.19–1.45). There’s evidence of convergent validity between the scores of the Frequency test and the results of Meludia (r = 0.242–0.645). Additionally, the Frequency test demonstrate a good discriminative capacity to identify patients with poorer musical perception.

Conclusions

The sMuRQoL is a reliable questionnaire, with adequate evidence of validity based on internal structure. This study provides an accessible, cost-effective, and quick-to-administer instrument in Spanish, optimizing available healthcare resources and bringing us closer to the patient needs.
Technical note: Temperature estimation accuracy based on colourimetry of embalmed human and fresh non-human burned bone
Authors: Krap Tristan , Leenstra Afke , Oostra Roelof-Jan , Duijst Wilma
Published: April 2024

Estimation of the exposure temperature of skeletal remains can be done by means of colourimetry and a previously published decision model for the colourimetric data, resulting in clusters that represent a range of exposure temperature. The method was based on thermally altered freshly burned human skeletal remains. However, in practice the origin or pre-burning condition of (possibly fragmentary) burned remains can be unknown. Further, in order to use the colourimetric analysis, and accompanying decision model, it is important to have a reference or test set. Fresh human material is not available for this purpose in all countries. Hence, the classification accuracy of the decision model was tested for, in some countries more readily available substitutes for fresh bone; embalmed human bone and non-human bone. The model yielded high accuracies for these sample materials, making it possible to create a reference or test set from fresh non-human and embalmed human bone as substitute for human, and also to use the decision model for these deviating samples in practice.
Efficacy and safety of chemoimmunotherapy in advanced non-small cell lung cancer patients with antibiotics-induced dysbiosis: a propensity-matched real-world analysis
Authors: Tamura Kentaro , Okuma Yusuke , Nomura Shogo , Fukuda Akito , Masuda Ken , Matsumoto Yuji , Shinno Yuki , Yoshida Tatsuya , Goto Yasushi , Horinouchi Hidehito , Yamamoto Noboru , Ohe Yuichiro
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The gut microbiota is hypothesized as a prognostic biomarker for cancer immunotherapy. Antibiotic-induced dysbiosis negatively affects the clinical outcomes of immunotherapy. However, the effect of dysbiosis on the efficacy and safety of Chemoimmunotherapy (chemo-IOs), the frontline standard of care, in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains unknown. We aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of chemo-IOs in patients exposed to antibiotics before treatment with those of patients who were not exposed.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed patients with advanced NSCLC treated with first-line chemo-IOs between 2018 and 2020 at the National Cancer Center Hospital. The patients were divided into two groups: those exposed to antibiotics within 30 days before induction therapy (ABx group) and those did not antibiotics (Non-ABx group). Propensity score matching was used to control for potential confounding factors. Clinical outcomes including progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and immune-related adverse events (irAEs) were compared.

Results

Of 201 eligible patients, 21 were in the ABx group, and 42 were in the non-ABx group after propensity score matching. No differences in PFS or OS emerged between the two groups (ABx group vs. Non-ABx group) (PFS:7.0 months vs. 6.4 months, hazard ratio [HR] 0.89; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.49–1.63, OS:20.4 months vs. 20.1 months, HR 0.87; 95% CI 0.44–1.71). The frequency of irAEs before propensity score matching was similar across any-grade irAEs (39.4% vs. 42.9%) or grade 3 or higher irAEs (9.1% vs. 11.3%).

Conclusion

Antibiotic-induced dysbiosis may not affect the efficacy of chemo-IOs in patients with advanced NSCLC.
Merkel cell carcinoma overlapping Bowen’s disease: two cases report and literature review
Authors: Chen Xueqin , Song Xiao , Huang Hui , Zhang Lian , Song Zhiqiang , Yang Xichuan , Lei Shanchuan , Zhai Zhifang
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare neuroendocrine tumor of the skin, which mainly occurs in the sun exposed sites of white patients over 65 years, with a higher recurrence and metastasis rate. Clinically, MCC overlapping Bowen’s disease (BD) is a very rare subtype of MCC. Few cases in the literature have been described and the management is not well defined. We summarize and update the epidemiology, clinical and histopathological features, metastasis characteristics, local recurrence rate and management of it by presenting two cases of MCC overlapping BD and reviewing the literature over the last 11 years.

Design

We consulted databases from PubMed, ResearchGate and Google Scholar by MeSh “Merkel cell carcinoma” and “Bowen’s disease”, “Bowen disease” or “squamous cell carcinoma in situ”, from January 2013 to December 2023 and reviewed the literatures. We reported two additional cases.

Results

Total 13 cases of MCC overlapping BD were retrospectively analyzed, in whom mainly in elderly women over 70 years, the skin lesions were primarily located on the faces, followed by the extremities and trunk. Most of them were asymptomatic, firm, dark red nodules arising on rapidly growing red or dark brown patches, or presenting as isolated nodules. Dermoscopy evaluation was rarely performed in the pre-operative diagnostic setting. All cases were confirmed by histopathology and immunohistochemistry. The most definitive treatment was extended local excision, but local recurrences were common. Of the 13 cases, 4 cases experienced local or distant metastasis. One suffered from an in-transit recurrence of MCC on the ipsilateral leg after local excision and lymph node dissection, whose metastasis completely subsided after avelumab treatment and without recurrence or metastasis during 6 months of follow-up.

Conclusions

MCC overlapping BD is a very rare skin tumor mainly predisposed on the faces, with high misdiagnosis rate and recurrence rate. Advanced disease at diagnosis is a poor prognostic factor, suggesting that earlier detection may improve outcome. The acronym, AEIOUN, has been proposed to aid in clinical identification. Our reports and the literature review can provide a better awareness and management of it.
The role of victimisation and sleep quality in self-harm and depression among sexual minority adolescents. A prospective cohort study
Authors: Tepman Alexandra , Wong Mark Lawrence
Published: April 2024

Sexual minority adolescents (SMA) have a disproportionately high prevalence of victimisation, self-harm, and depressed mood, relative to the general population. Yet, the contributing and mechanistic factors are unclear. We aim to explore the directional relationship between victimisation and self-harm and depressed mood, with poor sleep quality as a possible mediator. A secondary data analysis was conducted using a nationally representative birth cohort in the United Kingdom, where participants self-identified as sexual minority (N = 1922, aged 11–13, 67.1% female) and their parents completed questionnaires and interviews when the participants were aged 11, 14 and 17. Logistic and linear regression were used to test whether victimisation prospectively predicted self-harm and depressed mood with mediation analyses conducted to assess if sleep onset latency and nocturnal awakening mediated their relationships. After adjusting for demographic factors and baseline self-harm and depressed mood, victimisation at age 11 significantly predicted self-harm (OR = 1.40, p < .01) and depressed mood (B = 0.024, SE = 0.01, p < .05) at age 17. In the mediation analyses, frequent nocturnal awakening at age 14, but not sleep onset latency, significantly mediated the effect of victimisation at age 11 on self-harm (indirect effect B = 0.008, SE = 0.004, 95%CI = 0.001-0.017) and depressed mood (indirect effect B = 0.005, SE = 0.002 95%CI = 0.001-0.010) at age 17. Our findings supported that victimisation contributed to negative mental health among SMA. Poor sleep quality could be an indicator of maladjustment with victimisation, which further increased vulnerability to negative mental health. Victimisation and sleep quality could be important assessment targets in mental health campaign among sexual minority adolescents.
On the influence of local deformation on structural dynamic models of bolted lap joints
Authors: Wischmann Stefan , Jacobs Georg , Höpfner Gregor
Published: April 2024

The acoustic and structural dynamic behavior of technical products—often referred to as Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH)—is an important criterion in customers’ purchasing decisions. Therefore, NVH optimization is a crucial goal of the development process. NVH is influenced by dynamic excitations, caused by time-varying forces e.g. in gears or electric machines, as well as the transfer path of sound from the location of excitation to a receiver such as a driver’s ear and the sound perception. The behavior of the transfer path is determined by amplification or isolation of structure-borne and airborne sound between the location of the excitation and the location of the receiver. As a result, eigenfrequencies and damping in the transfer path form crucial structural dynamic properties.

Within jointed structures, friction between the surfaces of lap joints are the most dominant influencing factor on the transfer path’s damping. In order to increase the efficiency of NVH optimization in the development process, methods of virtual product development have become an established tool. Especially finite element method (FEM) and elastic multi-body simulation (eMBS) have allowed to numerically evaluate the structural dynamic behavior of technical products before manufacturing physical prototypes. While numerous methods for modeling jointed structures exist in FEM and eMBS environments, the choice of suitable eMBS models of joints remains challenging today. This is because the frictional behavior between the jointed partners in higher frequencies is largely influenced by the deformation of the joint surface. However, the deformation of the jointed parts is simplified in eMBS models compared to quasi-continuous FEM models. Accordingly, the choice of a suitable spatial discretization of eMBS joint models is a key factor in the model quality of eMBS models. Thus, this work proposes a modeling guideline for eMBS models of jointed structures based on the deformation of the structure using the criterion of rigidness. The method is demonstrated on an eMBS model of the academic Brake Reuß beam, which consists of two beam elements jointed with three screws in an overlap lap joint. Good agreement between eMBS simulation and measurement with an error of 1 dB is achieved using the proposed modeling method.
Evaluation of visual, auditory, and olfactory stimulus-based attractors for intermittent reorientation in virtual reality locomotion
Authors: Lee Jieun , Hwang Seokhyun , Kim Kyunghwan , Kim SeungJun
Published: April 2024

In virtual reality, redirected walking (RDW) enables users to stay within the tracking area while feeling that they are traveling in a virtual space that is larger than the physical space. RDW uses a visual attractor to the user’s sight and scene manipulation for intermittent reorientation. However, repeated usage can hinder the virtual world immersion and weaken the reorientation performance. In this study, we propose using sounds and smells as alternative stimuli to draw the user’s attention implicitly and sustain the attractor’s performance for intermittent reorientation. To achieve this, we integrated visual, auditory, and olfactory attractors into an all-in-one stimulation system. Experiments revealed that the auditory attractor caused the fastest reorientation, the olfactory attractor induced the widest angular difference, and the attractor with the combined auditory and olfactory stimuli induced the largest angular speed, keeping users from noticing the manipulation. The findings demonstrate the potential of nonvisual attractors to reorient users in situations requiring intermittent reorientation.
Oligella spp.: A systematic review on an uncommon urinary pathogen
Authors: Farfour Eric , Vasse Marc , Vallée Alexandre
Published: April 2024

Background

Oligella is an uncommon Gram-negative coccobacillus that was first thought to belong to the urogenital tract. The genus Oligella comprises two species that were recovered from various samples worldwide.

Methods

We perform a systematic review focusing on Oligella microbiological characteristics, habitat, role in Human microbiome and infection, and antimicrobial susceptibility.

Results

In humans, Oligella is mainly found as part of the microbiome of individuals with predisposing conditions. Oligella were also associated with invasive infections in patients with underlying diseases. Nevertheless, their prevalence remains to determine. Oligella culture requires up to 48 h on agar media in vitro, while urinary samples are usually incubated for 24 h. Consequently, microbiologists should be prompt to prolong the incubation of agar media when the direct examination showed Gram-negative coccobacilli. Oligella is accurately identified using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, but biochemical methods often provided inconsistent results. Specific guidelines for antimicrobial susceptibility testing of Oligella lack but the incubation could require up to 48 h of incubation. In contrast to O. urethralis, which is susceptible to third-generation cephalosporin, O. ureolytica is likely resistant to numerous antimicrobials. Genectic determinants of resistance were identified for beta-lactams and aminoglycosides.

Conclusion

Oligella is an uncommon pathogen that can be underrecognized. Microbiologists should be prompt to prolong the incubation of agar media plated with urines when the direct examination showed Gram-negative coccobacilli. Carbapenems should probably be given for the empirical treatment.
Equal opportunities for non-traditional students? Dropout at a private German distance university of applied sciences
Authors: Klinke Clemens , Kulle Katharina , Schreyögg Bettina , Fischer Katharina , Eckert Marcus
Published: April 2024

Student dropout represents a significant challenge in distance higher education. To better understand this issue, a comprehensive analysis of institutional data, spanning several years from a private German distance learning university of applied sciences, was conducted. The primary objectives were twofold: (1) to pinpoint institutional factors serving as predictors for student dropout and (2) to analyze the underlying psychological mechanisms. The findings indicate that part-time enrollment, age, interruptions, and overdue payments predicted dropout. Conversely, a good match between a student’s occupation and the study program, as well as employer reimbursement of study fees, predicted degree completion. Further results suggest that students who recommend the program to others are more likely to succeed. However, those referred by friends are at a higher risk of dropping out. Additionally, poor grades and late submission of the first assignment were identified as predictors of dropout. A noteworthy finding was the interaction between these factors and the student’s qualification for studying. Vocationally qualified students tend to submit their first assignment earlier but perform worse academically compared to academically qualified students. Generally, the influence of socio-demographic factors such as the educational background, gender, or nationality was low. This suggests that some of the disadvantages that non-traditional students might face at traditional universities in Germany might cease to exist at private distance universities of applied sciences. The implications of these findings are discussed.
Leveraging the industrial internet of things for business process improvement: a metamodel and patterns
Authors: Stoiber Christoph , Schönig Stefan
Published: April 2024

Industrial organizations of all kinds increasingly recognize the industrial internet of thing’s (IIoT) capabilities to enable valuable business process improvement (BPI). However, both theoretically and practically, there is a lack of clarity regarding the systematic and successful identification, specification, and implementation of corresponding applications. This article aims to bridge this research gap by presenting a comprehensive metamodel encompassing all relevant aspects and elements of IIoT applications with BPI propositions. The metamodel is the foundation for deriving generic yet practical patterns that can assist organizations in effectively executing IIoT projects. To evaluate the usefulness of the approach, five initial patterns were designed and applied by a market-leading organization. The metamodel and patterns contribute to the descriptive knowledge of the IIoT and facilitate sense-making, theory-led design, and practical project execution. To ensure rigor, the research endeavor followed fundamental principles of the design science research (DSR) methodology.
Michael’s missed genetic diagnosis
Authors: Lemke Johannes R. , Brandt Christian , Krawitz Peter
Published: April 2024

Michael, after whom the Michael Foundation is named, had been diagnosed with neonatal-onset refractory epilepsy that challenged numerous epileptologists at the time. The seizures disappeared in adolescence but a neurodevelopmental disorder with intellectual disability remained. Still, to the best of our knowledge, genetic testing was never considered. Facial photographs of Michael potentially containing the clue to his diagnosis had been published multiple times in the past few decades and are known to a broad audience. Michael passed away in 2023 at the age of 80 years. A post-mortem analysis of Michael’s photographs employing both the human eye and artificial intelligence as well as retrospective anamnesis of Michael’s clinical symptoms revealed Williams–Beuren syndrome to be the by far most likely cause of Michael’s disorder. This diagnosis has implications for affected individuals as well as for the family and relatives and therefore illustrates the importance of genetic testing of neurodevelopmental disorders even in older individuals.
The cryptic microbiota of plant parasitic and entomopathogenic nematodes: diversity, effects on host biology and potential in plant protection
Authors: Rosso Laura Cristina , Lax Paola , Ciancio Aurelio , Colagiero Mariantonietta , Pentimone Isabella
Published: April 2024

Many plant parasitic and entomopathogenic nematodes harbor specialized and obligate bacteria as well as viruses. Given their evolutionary persistence, such cryptic species are considered to play effective roles during their host/microbe interactions lifetime, including mutualistic, antagonistic, or yet unknown host effects. To exploit such associations in plant protection, a comprehensive view is needed linking basic evolutionary relationships to applied aspects. This requires identifying the benefit or impact that hosts, acting as pests or biocontrol agents, receive from their endosymbionts. Targeting endosymbionts that are vital for a beneficial nematode or a pest may open novel perspectives for the management of their performance and traits, such as virulence or response to plant defense reactions. Some hypotheses are proposed to develop advanced control strategies through emerging biotechnological approaches.
“A Feeling of Safeness and Freedom”: The Promotion of Mental Health Recovery Through Co-Production in an Italian Community Organization
Authors: Guarino Antonella , Negrogno Luca , Compare Christian , Madeo Alessandra , Bolognini Pamela , Degli Esposti Linda , Filippi Michele , Lamberini Francesca , Morrone Martina , Masetti Matteo , Serra Antonio Marco , Albanesi Cinzia
Published: April 2024

In mental health promotion, recovery is a process that leads to personal strengthening, control over crucial life decisions, and participation in communities through relevant professional, educational, or family social roles. Co-production, a key aspect of the recovery-oriented approach, emphasizes collaboration and active participation of people with mental health first-hand experience, family members, and citizens. Even though studies on co-production are limited and fragmented, there is evidence that co-production leads to positive outcomes, including improved well-being, empowerment, social connectedness, inclusion, and personal competencies. This study aimed to contribute to the limited literature on co-production in mental health by evaluating the co-production process in a non-profit mental health organization and its impact on empowerment processes and personal recovery outcomes. The research team adopted a collaborative approach and conducted qualitative research, including 13 individual semi-structured interviews and four focus groups. Results showed how the different dimensions of empowerment are promoted in and by the organization: (a) co-production processes supported empowered outcomes on an individual level, such as self-awareness; (b) the organization was perceived to promote empowering processes, such as a sense of safeness and protection; (c) co-production was a mean to build and maintain a network with mental health services that acknowledges the dignity and value of each subjectivity and promotes participation and recovery. Peer support workers were seen as facilitators of mental illness management, and the organization as a place for sharing mental health experiences and fostering individual recovery journeys.