Search

We examined the feasibility, acceptability, and clinical potential of a smartphone-based Approach-Avoidance Modification Training (AAMT) that required users to deliberately display anger and positive emotions (AAMT-AP) to move (dys-)functional stress-related beliefs away from and towards themselves, respectively. The per protocol sample consisted of N = 30 participants randomized to an AAMT-AP condition, a swipe control condition, or an inactive control condition. Feasibility and acceptability of the intervention and study design were assessed directly and changes in clinical outcomes (perceived stress (primary outcome), dysfunctional beliefs, symptoms of depression, and emotion regulation skills) one week after intervention completion. The results indicated that AAMT-AP was feasible and acceptable to participants. Moreover, notable effect sizes for clinical outcomes in comparison with both control conditions provided preliminary evidence for its therapeutic potential. Future research should evaluate the efficacy of AAMT-AP in sufficiently powered randomized controlled trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Although dysphagia is a common symptom among patients with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1 (SMA1), scant data exist on the application of Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) in this population. The aim was to analyze FEES feasibility, swallow safety and efficacy, dysphagia phenotype, and agreement with VideoFluoroscopic Swallow Study (VFSS) in children with symptomatic, medication-treated SMA1 and oral feeding. Methods: 10 children with SMA1 underwent FEES. Six patients had also a VFSS. Two clinicians independently rated FEES and VFSS videos. Swallowing safety was assessed using the Penetration-Aspiration scale (PAS). Dysphagia phenotypes were defined according to the classification defined by Warnecke et al. Swallowing efficacy was evaluated with the Yale Pharyngeal Residue Severity Rating Scale (YPRSRS) in FEES, whereas pharyngeal residue was rated as present or absent in VFSS. Results: FEES was performed in all children without complications. Four children tolerated bolus trials during FEES, in 4 children swallowing characteristics were inferred based on post-swallow residues, while 2 children refused to eat and only saliva management was assessed. The dysphagia phenotype of predominance of residue in the piriform sinuses was documented in 7/8 children. The PAS score was < 3 in 3 children and > 5 in one child. Swallowing efficacy was impaired in 8/8 children. VFSS showed complete agreement with FEES. Conclusions: FEES is a feasible examination in children with SMA1. Swallowing safety and efficacy are impaired in nearly all patients with strong agreement between FEES and VFSS. Dysphagia is characterized by the predominance of residue in the piriform sinus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recognizing patterns is an essential skill in early mathematics education. However, first graders often have difficulties with tasks such as extending patterns of the form ABCABC. Studies show that this pattern-recognition ability is a good predictor of later pre-algebraic skills and mathematical achievement in general, or the development of mathematical difficulties on the other hand. To be able to foster children's pattern-recognition ability, it is crucial to investigate and understand their pattern-recognition processes early on. However, only a few studies have investigated the processes used to recognize patterns and how these processes are adapted to different patterns. These studies used external observations or relied on children's self-reports, yet young students often lack the ability to properly report their strategies. This paper presents the results of an empirical study using eye-tracking technology to investigate the pattern-recognition processes of 22 first-grade students. In particular, we investigated students with and without the risk of developing mathematical difficulties. The analyses of the students' eye movements reveal that the students used four different processes to recognize patterns—a finding that refines knowledge about pattern-recognition processes from previous research. In addition, we found that for patterns with different units of repeat (i.e. ABABAB versus ABCABCABC), the pattern-recognition processes used differed significantly for students at risk of developing mathematical difficulties but not for students without such risk. Our study contributes to a better understanding of the pattern-recognition processes of first-grade students, laying the foundation for enhanced, targeted support, especially for students at risk of developing mathematical difficulties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: In the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with transarterial radioembolization (TARE), identifying reliable biomarkers for predicting survival outcomes remains a critical challenge. We aimed to address this gap by investigating the significance of serum cytokines associated with inflammation as potential biomarkers for the selection of patients for TARE. Methods: Our retrospective study involved 161 patients diagnosed with HCC who underwent Y90 radioembolization at our medical center between 2010 and 2020. Serum samples from a subset of 78 patients were retrospectively analyzed to determine the concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines. The results from the prospective SORAMIC trial were used for independent validation. Results: With a median overall survival of 36 weeks (range 4-436), our study showed the strongest correlation between 12-week survival and IL-8 levels before treatment (p < 0.001), while other relevant interleukins, interferon-α2, INF-γ, TNF-α and MCP-1 were not associated with survival. IL-8 levels below the cut-off of 190 pg/mL were significantly associated with increased 12-week and 24-week survival, with hazard ratios of 19.01 (95% CI: 2.29-157.89) and 2.57 (95% CI: 1.05–6.31), respectively (p = 0.006 and p = 0.039, respectively). In the adjusted multivariate analysis, the 190 pg/mL cut-off for IL-8 remained independently associated with 12- (p = 0.011) and 24-week survival (p = 0.039). Similarly, the SORAMIC population showed a strong association between IL-8 levels and 36-week survival (p = 0.03). Conclusion: Our study emphasizes the pivotal role of IL-8 as a valuable parameter, demonstrating its potential for predicting treatment outcomes and assessing liver function in patients with HCC undergoing TARE. The robustness of these findings warrants further validation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Influenza-associated excess mortality and morbidity is commonly estimated using statistical methods. In Germany, the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) uses the relative mortality distribution method (RMDM) to estimate influenza-associated excess mortality without reporting age-specific values. In order to better differentiate the distribution of the disease burden, a distinction by age is of high relevance. Therefore, we aimed to revise the existing excess mortality model and provide age-specific excess mortality estimates over multiple seasons. We also used the model to determine influenza-associated excess hospitalizations, since the RKI excess hospitalization model is currently based on another approach (i.e., combination of excess physician visits and hospitalized proportion). Methods: This study was a retrospective data analysis based on secondary data of the German population from 1996–2018. We adapted the RKI's method of estimating influenza-associated excess mortality with the RMDM and also applied this approach to excess hospitalizations. We calculated the number of excess deaths/hospitalizations using weekly and age-specific data. Results: Data available in Germany are suitable for addressing the restrictions of the RKI's mortality model. In total, we estimated 175,858 (176,482 with age stratification) influenza-associated excess all cause deaths between 1995–1996 and 2017–2018 ranging from 0 (17 with age stratification) in 2005–2006 to 25,599 (25,527 with age stratification) in 2017–2018. Total influenza-associated excess deaths were comparable to RKI's estimates in most seasons. Most excess deaths/hospitalizations occurred in patients aged ≥ 60 years (95.42%/57.49%) followed by those aged 35–59 years (3,80%/24,98%). Compared with our model, the RKI hospitalization model implies a substantial underestimation of excess hospitalizations (828,090 vs. 374,200 over all seasons). Conclusion: This is the first study that provides age-specific estimates of influenza-associated excess mortality in Germany. The results clearly show that the main burden of influenza is in the elderly, for whom prevention and control measures should be prioritized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: The potent synthetic opioid fentanyl, and its analogs, continue to drive opioid-related overdoses. Although the pharmacology of fentanyl is well characterized, there is little information about the reinforcing effects of clandestine fentanyl analogs (FAs). Objectives: Here, we compared the effects of fentanyl and the FAs acetylfentanyl, butyrylfentanyl, and cyclopropylfentanyl on drug self-administration in male and female rats. These FAs feature chemical modifications at the carbonyl moiety of the fentanyl scaffold. Methods: Sprague-Dawley rats fitted with intravenous jugular catheters were placed in chambers containing two nose poke holes. Active nose poke responses resulted in drug delivery (0.2 mL) over 2 s on a fixed-ratio 1 schedule, followed by a 20 s timeout. Acquisition doses were 0.01 mg/kg/inj for fentanyl and cyclopropylfentanyl, and 0.03 mg/kg/inj for acetylfentanyl and butyrylfentanyl. After 10 days of acquisition, dose-effect testing was carried out, followed by 10 days of saline extinction. Results: Self-administration of fentanyl and FAs was acquired by both male and female rats, with no sex differences in acquisition rate. Fentanyl and FAs showed partial inverted-U dose-effect functions; cyclopropylfentanyl and fentanyl had similar potency, while acetylfentanyl and butyrylfentanyl were less potent. Maximal response rates were similar across drugs, with fentanyl and cyclopropylfentanyl showing maximum responding at 0.001 mg/kg/inj, acetylfentanyl at 0.01 mg/kg/inj, and butyrylfentanyl at 0.003 mg/kg/inj. No sex differences were detected for drug potency, efficacy, or rates of extinction. Conclusions: Our work provides new evidence that FAs display significant abuse liability in male and female rats, which suggests the potential for compulsive use in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Promiscuous enzymes often serve as the starting point for the evolution of novel functions. Yet, the extent to which the promiscuity of an individual enzyme can be harnessed several times independently for different purposes during evolution is poorly reported. Here, we present a case study illustrating how NAD(P)+-dependent succinate semialdehyde dehydrogenase of Escherichia coli (Sad) is independently recruited through various evolutionary mechanisms for distinct metabolic demands, in particular vitamin biosynthesis and central carbon metabolism. Using adaptive laboratory evolution (ALE), we show that Sad can substitute for the roles of erythrose 4-phosphate dehydrogenase in pyridoxal 5'-phosphate (PLP) biosynthesis and glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase in glycolysis. To recruit Sad for PLP biosynthesis and glycolysis, ALE employs various mechanisms, including active site mutation, copy number amplification, and (de)regulation of gene expression. Our study traces down these different evolutionary trajectories, reports on the surprising active site plasticity of Sad, identifies regulatory links in amino acid metabolism, and highlights the potential of an ordinary enzyme as innovation reservoir for evolution. Enzyme promiscuity seeds evolutionary innovation, but how flexible a single enzyme can be (re-)used during evolution remains unclear. Here, the authors show that various evolutionary trajectories applied to succinate semialdehyde dehydrogenase can compensate for the loss of two different functions in E. coli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Benzodiazepines and z-drugs increase the fall risk in older adults. There is a lack of real-world data examining the association between falls and deprescribing medications. Objective: In a retrospective cohort study of older adults with chronic benzodiazepine or z-drug use receiving care at an academic health system from January 2017 to December 2020, we explored the association between medication discontinuation and falls. Methods: Chronic use was defined as ≥ 3 medication dispensings and cumulative days' supply ≥ 45 days within 100 days in 2018. Discontinuation was defined as a dispensing gap of ≥ 180 days within 1 year of chronic use eligibility, with a secondary definition requiring a gap of ≥ 90 days. Non-discontinuers (n = 524) were matched 4:1 to discontinuers (n = 131) if they had a fill in the same month as the matched discontinuation index date. The association between discontinuation and a fall during 2.25-year follow-up was assessed using Cox proportional hazards models. The analysis was repeated using a gap of ≥ 90 days (n = 279 discontinuers; 1116 matched non-discontinuers). Results: The cumulative incidence of falls-related acute visits was 6.9% for discontinuers and 9.7% for non-discontinuers [adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 0.65, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.31–1.31]. Using the 90-day-gap definition, the cumulative incidence was 9.3% for discontinuers and 8.5% for non-discontinuers (HR 1.12, 95% CI 0.70–1.77). Conclusion: Benzodiazepine/z-drug discontinuation was not associated with reduced risk of falls. However, the relationship between discontinuation and falls varies depending on the definitions used. It is essential to examine different discontinuation definitions in larger studies while considering other relevant clinical outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Populations of plants and animals at the edge of a species' range may exhibit lower genetic diversity due to a combination of historical (e.g., postglacial dispersal) and contemporary (e.g., low effective population size, strong genetic drift or bottlenecks) processes. In this study, we analysed the genetic structure of populations of the European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis) in the northern part of the Pannonian Basin (Slovakia, Hungary, Austria), which represents the edge of the species' range. Using mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and microsatellite markers, we aimed to assign individuals and populations into phylogeographic lineages and to determine genetic variation and population structure. Our study revealed that most individuals from natural populations belong to mtDNA lineage II (widely distributed haplotype IIa, and likely endemic haplotypes IIl and IIo), which is typical for the whole Pannonian region. However, non-native haplotypes were detected in one Slovak population (haplotype Ib) and in the Austrian Donau Auen National Park (haplotype IVa). Microsatellite markers revealed high variability comparable to that in other parts of the range, suggesting that marginal populations may not necessarily have reduced genetic diversity. A genetically mixed population was found in the Donau Auen National Park, consisting of turtles belonging to mtDNA lineage II (taxonomically assessed as subspecies E. orbicularis orbicularis) and lineage IV (taxonomically assessed as E. orbicularis hellenica), which is native to the circum-Adriatic region. The admixture suggests intense hybridization and introgression between the two lineages (subspecies). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several scales to assess pharyngeal residue in Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) are currently available. The study aimed to compare the reliability and the applicability in real clinical practice among four rating scales: the Pooling Score (P-SCORE), the Boston Residue and Clearance Scale (BRACS), the Yale Pharyngeal Residue Severity Rating Scale (YPRSRS), and the Residue Ordinal Rating Scale (RORS). Twenty-five FEES videos were evaluated four times, once for each scale, by four speech and language pathologists. To test intra-rater reliability, the same raters re-assessed the videos two weeks apart. To test the applicability, raters recorded the time required to complete each assessment and the perceived difficulty/ease on a visual-analog scale (VAS). The intra-rater and the inter-rater reliability were calculated with Cohen's weighted Kappa and the Fleiss weighted Kappa, respectively. Time and perceived difficulty/ease scores were compared. The intra-rater reliability analysis showed almost perfect agreement for YPRSRS (k = 0.91) and RORS (k = 0.83) and substantial agreement for P-SCORE (k = 0.76) and BRACS (k = 0.74). Pairwise comparison showed no significant differences among the scales. The inter-rater reliability for the YPRSRS (k = 0.78) was significantly higher than P-SCORE (k = 0.52, p < 0.001), BRACS (k = 0.56, p < 0.001), and RORS (k = 0.65, p = 0.005). The BRACS required the longest time (p < 0.001) and was perceived as the most difficult scale (p < 0.001). The RORS was perceived as the easiest scale (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the YPRSRS showed the highest reliability, while raters perceived the RORS as the easiest to score. These results will allow clinicians to consciously choose which scale to use in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scientific and public attention on the therapeutic effects of psychedelics and other psychoactive compounds in headache disorders has recently grown. The use and reported therapeutic effects of such treatments have long been reported, though formal clinical trials are only recently taking place. When considering how these substances might be further studied and eventually applied, it is important to consider the specific headache disorder, the particular drug, and the mode of use. No singular protocol will be applicable across all headache disorders and drugs. In this leading article, the nuance required to consider the value of classic psychedelics, ketamine, and cannabinoids as headache medicines is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Data-driven business models imply the inter-organisational exchange of data or similar value objects. Data science methods enable organisations to discover patterns and eventually knowledge from data. Further, by training machine learning models, knowledge is materialised in those models. Thus, organisations might risk the exposure of competitive knowledge by sharing data-related value objects, such as data, models or predictions. Although knowledge risks have been studied in traditional business models, little research has been conducted in the direction of data-driven business models. In this explorative qualitative study, we conducted 28 expert interviews in three rounds (two exploratory and one evaluatory) and identified five types of risks along the three basic types of value objects: data, models and predictions. These risks depend on the context, i.e., when competitive knowledge could be discovered from shared value objects. We found that those risks can be mitigated by technology, contractual regulations, trusted relationships, and adjusting the business model design. In this study, we show that the risk of knowledge leakage is a relevant risk factor in data-driven business models. Overall, knowledge risks should be considered already during business model design, and their management requires an interdisciplinary approach via a balanced assessment. The level of knowledge protection from a technology perspective highly depends on computer science innovations and thus is a moving target. As an outlook, we suggest that knowledge risk will become even more relevant with the extensive usage of machine learning and artificial intelligence in data-driven business models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose of Review: What should a provider know about medications and other treatments in patients with cluster headache who have medical, psychiatric, and surgical comorbidities? What conversations should providers have with patients about living with and managing cluster headache? Recent Findings: While the number of treatments used in cluster headache is relatively small, numerous considerations were identified related to managing patients with comorbidities. Many of these touch on cardiac, cardiovascular, and cerebrovascular health, but full histories are needed to guide safe and effective treatment. Summary: Both older and newer treatments may be contraindicated in certain patients with cluster headache or should be considered carefully. In addition to incorporating medical, psychiatric, and surgical histories in the management plan, collaboration with other providers may be beneficial. Providers should also inquire about patient practices and discuss participation in clinical trials that might be a good fit for the individual. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epilepsy is defined by the abrupt emergence of harmful seizures, but the nature of these regime shifts remains enigmatic. From the perspective of dynamical systems theory, such critical transitions occur upon inconspicuous perturbations in highly interconnected systems and can be modeled as mathematical bifurcations between alternative regimes. The predictability of critical transitions represents a major challenge, but the theory predicts the appearance of subtle dynamical signatures on the verge of instability. Whether such dynamical signatures can be measured before impending seizures remains uncertain. Here, we verified that predictions on bifurcations applied to the onset of hippocampal seizures, providing concordant results from in silico modeling, optogenetics experiments in male mice and intracranial EEG recordings in human patients with epilepsy. Leveraging pharmacological control over neural excitability, we showed that the boundary between physiological excitability and seizures can be inferred from dynamical signatures passively recorded or actively probed in hippocampal circuits. Of importance for the design of future neurotechnologies, active probing surpassed passive recording to decode underlying levels of neural excitability, notably when assessed from a network of propagating neural responses. Our findings provide a promising approach for predicting and preventing seizures, based on a sound understanding of their dynamics. Understanding the sudden regime shifts leading to epileptic seizures is crucial for developing preventive measures. This research reveals that subtle dynamical changes can indicate impending seizures, and highlights the effectiveness of active probing over passive recording in assessing neural excitability in hippocampal circuits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterial pathogen known for causing listeriosis, a foodborne illness with a wide spectrum of clinical presentations ranging from mild gastroenteritis to severe invasive disease, particularly affecting immunocompromised individuals, pregnant women, newborns, and the elderly. Successful treatment of patients with recurring listeria episodes due to colonised foreign material is often challenging, typically requiring a combination of antimicrobial treatment and surgical removal. Case presentation: Here, we present a particularly complex case of chronic invasive listeriosis with a total of six relapses. After extensive investigations, the patient's ICD device was identified as the focus of infection. Conclusion: The confirmation of relapses through cgMLST analysis highlights the persistence of Listeria monocytogenes and the potential for recurrence even after apparent resolution of symptoms in patients with foreign material. It emphasises the necessity for a comprehensive assessment to identify and mitigate the risk of relapses, thereby ensuring optimal management and outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The calculation of aggregated composite measures is a widely used strategy to reduce the amount of data on hospital report cards. Therefore, this study aims to elicit and compare preferences of both patients as well as referring physicians regarding publicly available hospital quality information Methods: Based on systematic literature reviews as well as qualitative analysis, two discrete choice experiments (DCEs) were applied to elicit patients' and referring physicians' preferences. The DCEs were conducted using a fractional factorial design. Statistical data analysis was performed using multinomial logit models Results: Apart from five identical attributes, one specific attribute was identified for each study group, respectively. Overall, 322 patients (mean age 68.99) and 187 referring physicians (mean age 53.60) were included. Our models displayed significant coefficients for all attributes (p < 0.001 each). Among patients, "Postoperative complication rate" (20.6%; level range of 1.164) was rated highest, followed by "Mobility at hospital discharge" (19.9%; level range of 1.127), and "The number of cases treated" (18.5%; level range of 1.045). In contrast, referring physicians valued most the "One-year revision surgery rate" (30.4%; level range of 1.989), followed by "The number of cases treated" (21.0%; level range of 1.372), and "Postoperative complication rate" (17.2%; level range of 1.123) Conclusion: We determined considerable differences between both study groups when calculating the relative value of publicly available hospital quality information. This may have an impact when calculating aggregated composite measures based on consumer-based weighting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anti-amyloid treatments for early symptomatic Alzheimer disease have recently become clinically available in some countries, which has greatly increased the need for biomarker confirmation of amyloid pathology. Blood biomarker (BBM) tests for amyloid pathology are more acceptable, accessible and scalable than amyloid PET or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) tests, but have highly variable levels of performance. The Global CEO Initiative on Alzheimer's Disease convened a BBM Workgroup to consider the minimum acceptable performance of BBM tests for clinical use. Amyloid PET status was identified as the reference standard. For use as a triaging test before subsequent confirmatory tests such as amyloid PET or CSF tests, the BBM Workgroup recommends that a BBM test has a sensitivity of ≥90% with a specificity of ≥85% in primary care and ≥75–85% in secondary care depending on the availability of follow-up testing. For use as a confirmatory test without follow-up tests, a BBM test should have performance equivalent to that of CSF tests — a sensitivity and specificity of ~90%. Importantly, the predictive values of all biomarker tests vary according to the pre-test probability of amyloid pathology and must be interpreted in the complete clinical context. Use of BBM tests that meet these performance standards could enable more people to receive an accurate and timely Alzheimer disease diagnosis and potentially benefit from new treatments. Anti-amyloid treatments for early symptomatic Alzheimer disease have greatly increased the need for biomarker confirmation of amyloid pathology and blood biomarker tests offer an accessible and scalable biomarker test. This Consensus Statement provides recommendations for the minimum acceptable performance of blood biomarker tests for clinical use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated encephalomyelitis (MOG-EM; also termed MOG antibody-associated disease, MOGAD) is the most important differential diagnosis of both multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders. A recent proposal for new diagnostic criteria for MOG-EM/MOGAD explicitly recommends the use of immunoglobulin G subclass 1 (IgG1)- or IgG crystallizable fragment (Fc) region-specific assays and allows the use of heavy-and-light-chain-(H+L) specific assays for detecting MOG-IgG. By contrast, the utility of MOG-IgG3-specific testing has not been systematically evaluated. Objective: To assess whether the use of MOG-IgG3-specific testing can improve the sensitivity of MOG-IgG testing. Methods: Re-testing of 22 patients with a definite diagnosis of MOG-EM/MOGAD and clearly positive MOG-IgG status initially but negative or equivocal results in H+L- or Fc-specific routine assays later in the disease course (i.e. patients with spontaneous or treatment-driven seroreversion). Results: In accordance with previous studies that had used MOG-IgG1-specific assays, IgG subclass-specific testing yielded a higher sensitivity than testing by non-subclass-specific assays. Using subclass-specific secondary antibodies, 26/27 supposedly seroreverted samples were still clearly positive for MOG-IgG, with MOG-IgG1 being the most frequently detected subclass (25/27 [93%] samples). However, also MOG-IgG3 was detected in 14/27 (52%) samples (from 12/22 [55%] patients). Most strikingly, MOG-IgG3 was the predominant subclass in 8/27 (30%) samples (from 7/22 [32%] patients), with no unequivocal MOG-IgG1 signal in 2 and only a very weak concomitant MOG-IgG1 signal in the other six samples. By contrast, no significant MOG-IgG3 reactivity was seen in 60 control samples (from 42 healthy individuals and 18 patients with MS). Of note, MOG-IgG3 was also detected in the only patient in our cohort previously diagnosed with MOG-IgA+/IgG– MOG-EM/MOGAD, a recently described new disease subvariant. MOG-IgA and MOG-IgM were negative in all other patients tested. Conclusions: In some patients with MOG-EM/MOGAD, MOG-IgG is either exclusively or predominantly MOG-IgG3. Thus, the use of IgG1-specific assays might only partly overcome the current limitations of MOG-IgG testing and—just like H+L- and Fcγ-specific testing—might overlook some genuinely seropositive patients. This would have potentially significant consequences for the management of patients with MOG-EM/MOGAD. Given that IgG3 chiefly detects proteins and is a strong activator of complement and other effector mechanisms, MOG-IgG3 may be involved in the immunopathogenesis of MOG-EM/MOGAD. Studies on the frequency and dynamics as well as the clinical and therapeutic significance of MOG-IgG3 seropositivity are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose of the Review: Cardiac involvement in systemic sarcoidosis or isolated cardiac sarcoidosis plays a pivotal role in the clinical manifestation and prognostication. Active-inflammatory cardiac sarcoidosis is associated with a regional impairment of coronary microvascular function that may confer further detrimental effects on myocardial function needing further characterization. Recent Findings: Clinical investigations with cardiac positron emission tomography/computed tomography in conjunction with 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose to determine myocardial inflammation and 13N-ammonia to quantify myocardial blood flow (MBF) in patients with known or suspected cardiac sarcoidosis outlined that sarcoidosis-induced myocardial inflammation was associated with adverse effects on corresponding regional coronary microvascular function. Notably, immune-suppressive treatment caused reductions in myocardial inflammation were paralleled by improvements of coronary microvascular dysfunction outlining direct adverse effect of inflammation on coronary arteriolar function. Summary: This review summarizes contributions of cardiac PET imaging in the identification and characterization of active-inflammatory cardiac sarcoidosis, its effect on coronary microvascular function, treatment responses, and prognostic implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Die Urologie is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Dopamine can exert effects in the mammalian heart via five different dopamine receptors. There is controversy whether dopamine receptors increase contractility in the human heart. Therefore, we have generated mice that overexpress the human D1-dopamine receptor in the heart (D1-TG) and hypothesized that dopamine increases force of contraction and beating rate compared to wild-type mice (WT). In D1-TG hearts, we ascertained the presence of D1-dopamine receptors by autoradiography using [3H]SKF 38393. The mRNA for human D1-dopamine receptors was present in D1-TG hearts and absent in WT. We detected by in-situ-hybridization mRNA for D1-dopamine receptors in atrial and ventricular D1-TG cardiomyocytes compared to WT but also in human atrial preparations. We noted that in the presence of 10 µM propranolol (to antagonize β-adrenoceptors), dopamine alone and the D1- and D5-dopamine receptor agonist SKF 38393 (0.1–10 µM cumulatively applied) exerted concentration- and time-dependent positive inotropic effects and positive chronotropic effects in left or right atrial preparations from D1-TG. The positive inotropic effects of SKF 38393 in left atrial preparations from D1-TG led to an increased rate of relaxation and accompanied by and probably caused by an augmented phosphorylation state of the inhibitory subunit of troponin. In the presence of 0.4 µM propranolol, 1 µM dopamine could increase left ventricular force of contraction in isolated perfused hearts from D1-TG. In this model, we have demonstrated a positive inotropic and chronotropic effect of dopamine. Thus, in principle, the human D1-dopamine receptor can couple to contractility in the mammalian heart. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mobility of metals in surficial soils is among many factors controlled by the solubility of particulate matter (PM) deposited on their surface. This paper shows that the deposition of smaller, more soluble, Cu-, Zn- and Pb-bearing PM likely led to a higher mobility of these elements in finer textured soils with higher pH than in more acidic coarser textured soils with higher proportions of organic matter and gravel. This paradox (and novelty) is unraveled in the smelter-impacted soils of Flin Flon, Manitoba, Canada where the wet and dry deposition of particulates emitted by the smelter led to a smelter-shadow effect in close proximity to the smelter. Two pedons, one within and one outside of the smelter shadow are sampled parallel to the prevailing NW-SE wind direction. Leaching experiments and chemical, mineralogical, and textural analyses of these soils indicate a higher mobility of Cu, Pb and Zn in a limed soil within the smelter shadow and a higher mobility of As in an acidic soil immediately outside of the smelter shadow. The former observation is likely a result of the enhanced wet deposition of smaller more soluble Cu-, Pb- and Zn-sulfate and arsenate particles closer to the smelter. The latter observation is explained with the depletion of Fe-(hydr)oxides in the surficial soils under acidic pH conditions. The leaching experiments also show that the proportions of As, Cu, Pb and Zn in colloidal fractions increase in the sequence of Zn ≤ As < Cu < Pb, reflecting the affinity of these metals towards mineral and organic matter surfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Policymakers are tasked with both driving the rapid expansion of renewable energy technologies and, additionally channelling the limited national potential of biomass into areas where it can provide the greatest benefit to the energy system. But do current policy instruments promote the use of biomass in these areas? As biomass is limited, its use must be sustainable without leading to further biodiversity loss or depleting forest or soil resources. In this study, short-term energy scenarios are generated using the BenOpt model, which take into account both current and alternative policy instruments under limited biomass utilisation. The results are compared with long-term, cost-optimal energy scenarios for the use of biomass. Results: The analysis reveals that the instrument of a GHG quota does not promote the use of biofuels in hard-to-electrify areas of the transport sector, where they should be cost-optimally allocated according to long-term energy scenarios. Biofuels are promoted for use in passenger road transport and not in the shipping or aviation sector. In contrast, alternative policy scenarios indicate that the sole instrument of a high CO2 price is more conducive to direct electrification and could displace more fossil fuels by 2030 than the GHG quota alone. This instrument also promotes the optimal use of biogas plants in the power sector in accordance with long-term cost-optimal developments. Conclusions: The instrument of a GHG quota might lead to counterproductive developments in passenger road transport, but it also helps to ramp up the biofuel capacities required in shipping and aviation in the long term. However, it does not provide the necessary incentives for the ramp-up of battery electric vehicles, which would be the cost optimal solution in passenger road transport according to the long-term scenarios. Even though alternative policy scenarios show that the sole instrument of a high CO2-price is more conducive to direct electrification, a high CO2 price alone is not enough (e.g. in the heat sector) to promote the efficient use of biomass instead of simply covering the base load demand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document, published in the Journal of Neurology, explores the use of [18F]DPA-714-PET-MRI as a diagnostic tool for autoimmune limbic encephalitis (ALE) with specific autoantibodies. The study involved two patients with these autoantibodies, and the results showed increased tracer uptake in certain areas of the brain. The study suggests that [18F]DPA-714-PET-MRI could be a valuable tool for diagnosing ALE and assessing the immune response in the brain. However, further research is needed to fully understand its potential for clinical use in ALE. [Extracted from the article]

Patients with multiple system atrophy (MSA) frequently experience dysphagia but only few studies analyzed its characteristics. The aim of this study was to describe the swallowing characteristics in these patients using fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES). In addition, the swallowing abilities in patients with predominantly cerebellar MSA (MSA-C) and predominantly parkinsonian MSA (MSA-P) were compared. Twenty-five patients with MSA (16 MSA-P and 9 MSA-C) were enrolled. Clinical data including age, sex, functional oral intake scale (FOIS) score, body mass index (BMI) and the results of the global disability-unified MSA rating scale (GD-UMSARS) were collected. Three different textures of food (liquid, semisolid, solid) were provided during FEES examination. The characteristics of dysphagia (safety, efficiency, phenotype) and laryngeal movement alterations were analyzed. Delayed pharyngeal phase (92%) and posterior oral incontinence (52%) were the phenotypes more frequently seen. Penetration was more frequent with Liquid (68%), while aspiration occurred only with Liquid (20%). Residues of ingested food were demonstrated both in the pyriform sinus and in the vallecula with all the consistencies. Vocal fold motion impairment was the laryngeal movement alteration most frequently encountered (56%). No significant differences between patients with MSA-P and MSA-C in the dysphagia characteristics and laryngeal movement alterations were found. Patients with MSA frequently experience swallowing impairment and altered laryngeal mobility. Dysphagia characteristics and laryngeal movements alterations seems to be similar in MSA-C and MSA-P. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) has become the standard of care for the treatment of intermediate-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, current clinical practice guidelines lack consensus on the best selection of a specific TACE technique. This study aims to compare safety, tumor response, and progression-free survival (PFS) of conventional TACE (cTACE), drug-eluting bead TACE (DEB-TACE), and degradable starch microsphere TACE (DSM-TACE). Methods: This retrospective study included n = 192 patients with HCC who underwent first TACE with unbiased follow-up at 4–6 weeks at our center between 2008 and 2021. Eligibility for TACE was BCLC intermediate stage B, bridging/down-staging (B/D) to liver transplantation (LT), or any other stage when patients were not suitable for resection, LT, local ablation, or systemic therapy. Patients were grouped into three cohorts (n = 45 cTACE, n = 84 DEB-TACE, n = 63 DSM-TACE), and further categorized by TACE indication (B/D or palliative). Liver function and adverse events, response assessed by the modified response evaluation criteria in solid tumors (mRECIST) 4–6 weeks post-TACE and PFS were analyzed. Results: There were no significant differences in age, gender distribution, BCLC stage, or etiology of liver disease among the three TACE groups, even in the B/D or palliative subgroups. DEB-TACE induced slight increases in bilirubin in the palliative subgroup and in lactate dehydrogenase in the entire cohort 4–6 weeks post-TACE, and more adverse events in the palliative subgroup. DEB-TACE and DSM-TACE showed significantly higher disease control rates (complete and partial response, stable disease) compared to cTACE, especially in the B/D setting (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in PFS between the groups [median PFS (months): cTACE, 10.0 vs. DEB, 7.0 vs. DSM, 10.0; p = 0.436]. Conclusion: Our study provides valuable perspectives in the decision-making for a specific TACE technique: DEB-TACE and DSM-TACE showed improved tumor response. DEB-TACE showed a prolonged impact on liver function and more side effects, so patients with impaired liver function should be more strictly selected, especially in the palliative subgroup. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The continuing drive towards digitization in manufacturing leads to an increasing number of digital twins for monitoring and controlling all kinds of processes. While these capture crucial data of all individual steps and allow for analysis and optimization, more often than not the underlying models are confined to individual systems or organizations. This hinders data exchange, especially across institutional borders and thus represents an important barrier for economic success. Similar challenges in the scientific community led to the emergence of the FAIR principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable) as guidelines towards a sustainable data landscape. Despite the growing presence within academia, their transfer to industry has not yet received similar attention. We argue that the existing efforts and experiences in science can be exploited to address current data management challenges in industry as well. An improved data exchange within organizations and beyond can not just lower costs, but also opens up new opportunities ranging from discovering new suppliers or partners to improving existing value chains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DNA replication is essential for the proliferation of all cells. Bacterial chromosomes are replicated bidirectionally from a single origin of replication, with replication proceeding at about 1000 bp per second. For the model organism, Escherichia coli, this translates into a replication time of about 40 min for its 4.6 Mb chromosome. Nevertheless, E. coli can propagate by overlapping replication cycles with a maximum short doubling time of 20 min. The fastest growing bacterium known, Vibrio natriegens, is able to replicate with a generation time of less than 10 min. It has a bipartite genome with chromosome sizes of 3.2 and 1.9 Mb. Is simultaneous replication from two origins a prerequisite for its rapid growth? We fused the two chromosomes of V. natriegens to create a strain carrying one chromosome with a single origin of replication. Compared to the parental, this strain showed no significant deviation in growth rate. This suggests that the split genome is not a prerequisite for rapid growth. The fastest growing bacterium known is Vibrio natriegens. We have fused the two chromosomes of V. natriegens to create a single chromosome strain. Our results show that the bipartite genome is not a prerequisite for its rapid growth [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of conversational agents (e.g., chatbots) to simplify or aid consumers' purchase decisions is on the rise. In designing those conversational agents, a key question for companies is whether and when it is advisable to enable voice-based rather than text-based interactions. Addressing this question, this study finds that matching consumers' communication modality with product type (speaking about hedonic products; writing about utilitarian products) shapes consumers' choice and increases choice satisfaction. Specifically, speaking fosters a feeling-based verbalizing focus, while writing triggers a reason-based focus. When this focus matches consumers' mindset in evaluating the product type, preference fluency increases, thereby enhancing choice satisfaction. Accordingly, the authors provide insights into managing interactions with conversational agents more effectively to aid decision-making processes and increase choice satisfaction. Finally, they show that communication modality can serve as a strategic tool for low-equity brands to better compete with high-equity brands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Valvular heart disease leads to ventricular pressure and/or volume overload. Pressure overload leads to fibrosis, which might regress with its resolution, but the limits and details of this reverse remodeling are not known. To gain more insight into the extent and nature of cardiac fibrosis in valve disease, we analyzed needle biopsies taken from the interventricular septum of patients undergoing surgery for valve replacement focusing on the expression and distribution of major extracellular matrix protein involved in this process. Proteomic analysis performed using mass spectrometry revealed an excellent correlation between the expression of collagen type I and III, but there was little correlation with the immunohistochemical staining performed on sister sections, which included antibodies against collagen I, III, fibronectin, sarcomeric actin, and histochemistry for wheat germ agglutinin. Surprisingly, the immunofluorescence intensity did not correlate significantly with the gold standard for fibrosis quantification, which was performed using Picrosirius Red (PSR) staining, unless multiplexed on the same tissue section. There was also little correlation between the immunohistochemical markers and pressure gradient severity. It appears that at least in humans, the immunohistochemical pattern of fibrosis is not clearly correlated with standard Picrosirius Red staining on sister sections or quantitative proteomic data, possibly due to tissue heterogeneity at microscale, comorbidities, or other patient-specific factors. For precise correlation of different types of staining, multiplexing on the same section is the best approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The videolaryngostroboscopy parameters form (VLSP form) is a diagnostic tool for the collection of videolaryngostroboscopic basic findings through the evaluation of 12 parameters. The aim of the present study is to preliminarily investigate intra- and inter-rater reliability, validity and responsiveness of the VLSP form. Methods: A study on a total amount of 160 forms for the evaluation of VLS basic findings was carried out. 80 forms were scored through the VLSP form and 80 with the Voice Vibratory Assessment with Laryngeal Imaging (VALI) form Stroboscopy (S) by four expert phoniatricians, that blindly scored the VLS recordings of 5 subjects without voice disorders and 5 patients with organic voice disorder before and after successful phonosurgery. Intra-rater and inter-rater analysis have been performed for both forms. The scores obtained through VLSP form and VALI form S have been compared to analyse concurrent validity, while VLSP scores before and after phonosurgery have been compared to analyse responsiveness. Finally, each rater annotated the "difficulty" in rating every parameter and its "importance" for the diagnosis. Results: The VLSP form showed good inter- and intra-rater reliability. It showed a good accuracy for the documentation of changes of laryngeal anatomy and function after phonosurgery, similarly to the VALI form S. The 12 parameters of the VLSP form were judged "Slightly Important" in 28.3% of the samples, "Very Important" in 64.8% of the samples, "Not Difficult" in 73.1% of the samples. Conclusions: The results of the present study suggest that the VLSP form is comparable to the VALI form S for the evaluation of videolaryngostroboscopic parameters and is a valid, reliable and reproducible diagnostic tool. It can help voice clinicians in the evaluation of VLS examinations and it allows for a punctual assessment of modifications in laryngeal anatomy and function in pathological conditions and after phonosurgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose/study question: Does piercing oocyte membranes during ICSI allow the influx of surrounding zwitterionic buffer into human oocytes and result in altered developmental competence? Methods: Human oocytes directed to IRB-approved research were used to determine the unrestricted influx of surrounding buffer into the oocyte after piercing of membranes via confocal fluorescence microscopy (n = 80 human MII oocytes) and the influence of the select buffer influx of HEPES, MOPS, and bicarbonate buffer on the oocyte transcriptome using ultra-low input RNA sequencing (n = 40 human MII oocytes). Results: Piercing membranes of human MII oocytes during sham-ICSI resulted in the unrestricted influx of surrounding culture buffer into the oocyte that was beyond technician control. Transcriptome analysis revealed statistically significant decreased cytoskeletal transcripts in the pierced buffer cohorts, higher levels of embryo competency transcripts (IGF2 and G6PD) in the bicarbonate buffer cohort, higher levels of stress-induced transcriptional repressor transcripts (MAF1) in the HEPES and MOPS cohorts, and decreased levels of numerous chromosomal maintenance transcripts (SMC3) in the HEPES buffer cohort. The HEPES buffer cohort also revealed higher levels of transcripts suggesting increased oxidative (GPX1) and lysosomal stress (LAMP1). Conclusion: The influence of zwitterionic buffer on intrinsic cellular mechanisms provides numerous concerns for their use in IVF clinical applications. The primary concern is the ICSI procedure, in which the surrounding buffer is allowed influx into the oocytes after membrane piercing. Selecting a physiological bicarbonate buffer may reduce imposed stress on oocytes, resulting in improved embryo development and clinical results because intracellular MOPS, and especially HEPES, may negatively impact intrinsic biological mechanisms, as revealed by transcriptome changes. These findings further support the utilization of bicarbonate buffer as the oocyte-holding medium during ICSI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fractals are patterns that are self-similar across multiple length-scales1. Macroscopic fractals are common in nature2–4; however, so far, molecular assembly into fractals is restricted to synthetic systems5–12. Here we report the discovery of a natural protein, citrate synthase from the cyanobacterium Synechococcus elongatus, which self-assembles into Sierpiński triangles. Using cryo-electron microscopy, we reveal how the fractal assembles from a hexameric building block. Although different stimuli modulate the formation of fractal complexes and these complexes can regulate the enzymatic activity of citrate synthase in vitro, the fractal may not serve a physiological function in vivo. We use ancestral sequence reconstruction to retrace how the citrate synthase fractal evolved from non-fractal precursors, and the results suggest it may have emerged as a harmless evolutionary accident. Our findings expand the space of possible protein complexes and demonstrate that intricate and regulatable assemblies can evolve in a single substitution.Citrate synthase from the cyanobacterium Synechococcus elongatus is shown to self-assemble into Sierpiński triangles, a finding that opens up the possibility that other naturally occurring molecular-scale fractals exist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Topology1–3 and interactions are foundational concepts in the modern understanding of quantum matter. Their nexus yields three important research directions: (1) the competition between distinct interactions, as in several intertwined phases, (2) the interplay between interactions and topology that drives the phenomena in twisted layered materials and topological magnets, and (3) the coalescence of several topological orders to generate distinct novel phases. The first two examples have grown into major areas of research, although the last example remains mostly unexplored, mainly because of the lack of a material platform for experimental studies. Here, using tunnelling microscopy, photoemission spectroscopy and a theoretical analysis, we unveil a ‘hybrid’ topological phase of matter in the simple elemental-solid arsenic. Through a unique bulk-surface-edge correspondence, we uncover that arsenic features a conjoined strong and higher-order topology that stabilizes a hybrid topological phase. Although momentum-space spectroscopy measurements show signs of topological surface states, real-space microscopy measurements unravel a unique geometry of topologically induced step-edge conduction channels revealed on various natural nanostructures on the surface. Using theoretical models, we show that the existence of gapless step-edge states in arsenic relies on the simultaneous presence of both a non-trivial strong Z2 invariant and a non-trivial higher-order topological invariant, which provide experimental evidence for hybrid topology. Our study highlights pathways for exploring the interplay of different band topologies and harnessing the associated topological conduction channels in engineered quantum or nano-devices.A hybrid topological phase of matter is discovered in the simple elemental-solid arsenic and explored using tunnelling microscopy, photoemission spectroscopy and a theoretical analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantitative structural models (QSMs) are frequently used to simplify single tree point clouds obtained by terrestrial laser scanning (TLS). QSMs use geometric primitives to derive topological and volumetric information about trees. Previous studies have shown a high agreement between TLS and QSM total volume estimates alongside field measured data for whole trees. Although already broadly applied, the uncertainties of the combination of TLS and QSM modelling are still largely unexplored. In our study, we investigated the effect of scanning distance on length and volume estimates of branches when deriving QSMs from TLS data. We scanned ten European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) branches with an average length of 2.6 m. The branches were scanned from distances ranging from 5 to 45 m at step intervals of 5 m from three scan positions each. Twelve close-range scans were performed as a benchmark. For each distance and branch, QSMs were derived. We found that with increasing distance, the point cloud density and the cumulative length of the reconstructed branches decreased, whereas individual volumes increased. Dependent on the QSM hyperparameters, at a scanning distance of 45 m, cumulative branch length was on average underestimated by − 75%, while branch volume was overestimated by up to + 539%. We assume that the high deviations are related to point cloud quality. As the scanning distance increases, the size of the individual laser footprints and the distances between them increase, making it more difficult to fully capture small branches and to adjust suitable QSMs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Disease staging, whereby the spatial extent and load of brain pathology are used to estimate the severity of Alzheimer disease (AD), is pivotal to the gold-standard neuropathological diagnosis of AD. Current in vivo diagnostic frameworks for AD are based on abnormal concentrations of amyloid-β and tau in the cerebrospinal fluid or on PET scans, and breakthroughs in molecular imaging have opened up the possibility of in vivo staging of AD. Focusing on the key principles of disease staging shared across several areas of medicine, this Review highlights the potential for in vivo staging of AD to transform our understanding of preclinical AD, refine enrolment criteria for trials of disease-modifying therapies and aid clinical decision-making in the era of anti-amyloid therapeutics. We provide a state-of-the-art review of recent biomarker-based AD staging systems and highlight their contributions to the understanding of the natural history of AD. Furthermore, we outline hypothetical frameworks to stage AD severity using more accessible fluid biomarkers. In addition, by applying amyloid PET-based staging to recently published anti-amyloid therapeutic trials, we highlight how biomarker-based disease staging frameworks could illustrate the numerous pathological changes that have already taken place in individuals with mildly symptomatic AD. Finally, we discuss challenges related to the validation and standardization of disease staging and provide a forward-looking perspective on potential clinical applications. Recent clinical trials have highlighted the need for Alzheimer disease (AD) staging rather than simply noting the presence or absence of AD pathology. This article reviews current biomarker-based AD staging systems and outlines hypothetical frameworks to stage AD severity using fluid biomarkers. Key points: Disease staging systems are used across medicine to measure disease severity, estimate patient prognosis, determine eligibility for clinical trials and guide clinical care. Staging systems provide a model of the natural history of a disease as well as a framework to validate new biomarkers and test new interventions. Alzheimer disease (AD) has a long preclinical phase in which multiple biological changes are observable in the absence of symptoms; biomarker-based staging systems are well suited to detect and monitor these changes over the natural history of AD. Biomarker-based staging using the topography of PET ligand uptake provides information about AD severity and aids prediction of clinical outcomes. Recent work has highlighted the potential of fluid biomarker panels for the staging of AD and the development of plasma biomarker panels will substantially increase the accessibility of biomarker-based AD staging. Biomarker-based AD staging might help to guide clinical decision-making; for example, evidence suggests that individuals with lower levels of tau tracer uptake on PET respond better to anti-amyloid monoclonal antibody therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Past studies indicate that mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) promote mental health for adolescents. However, most adolescents with mental health vulnerabilities do not have access to an MBI. The goal of the current study was to explore the feasibility, acceptability, and potential efficacy of scaling out an MBI through a mentoring program targeted at adolescents experiencing multiple adversities. Method: We conducted a randomized feasibility trial comparing mentoring alone to mentoring plus MBI. Assessments occurred at baseline and post-intervention, including reports gathered from adolescents and their parents. Results: The addition of an MBI to the mentoring program did not affect attendance, but was associated with small increases in overall program acceptability. Additionally, adolescents who received mentoring plus MBI showed larger improvements in two aspects of emotion regulation (emotional clarity and managing impulsive behaviors during distress), attention problems, externalizing behaviors, and posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms. In contrast, adolescents who received mentoring alone demonstrated more favorable change in another dimension of emotion regulation (accessing effective emotion regulation strategies) and internalizing symptoms. Many but not all of these effects were more pronounced when focusing specifically on older, high school–aged adolescents, compared to the effects observed in the entire sample of 10–18-year-olds. Conclusions: Results suggest that it is feasible, acceptable, and potentially effective to expand MBI via mentoring programs for adolescents at high risk for mental health symptoms. Preregistration: This study was not preregistered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the benefit of a contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) radiomics-based model for predicting response and survival in patients with colorectal liver metastases treated with transarterial Yttrium-90 radioembolization (TARE). Materials and Methods: Fifty-one patients who underwent TARE were included in this single-center retrospective study. Response to treatment was assessed using the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST 1.1) at 3-month follow-up. Patients were stratified as responders (complete/partial response and stable disease, n = 24) or non-responders (progressive disease, n = 27). Radiomic features (RF) were extracted from pre-TARE CT after segmentation of the liver tumor volume. A model was built based on a radiomic signature consisting of reliable RFs that allowed classification of response using multivariate logistic regression. Patients were assigned to high- or low-risk groups for disease progression after TARE according to a cutoff defined in the model. Kaplan–Meier analysis was performed to analyze survival between high- and low-risk groups. Results: Two independent RF [Energy, Maximal Correlation Coefficient (MCC)], reflecting tumor heterogeneity, discriminated well between responders and non-responders. In particular, patients with higher magnitude of voxel values in an image (Energy), and texture complexity (MCC), were more likely to fail TARE. For predicting treatment response, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the radiomics-based model was 0.75 (95% CI 0.48–1). The high-risk group had a shorter overall survival than the low-risk group (3.4 vs. 6.4 months, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Our CT radiomics model may predict the response and survival outcome by quantifying tumor heterogeneity in patients treated with TARE for colorectal liver metastases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Zeitschrift für Rheumatologie is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objectives: Reconstruction of a three-dimensional jaw position determined by a bite recording is an important aspect of prosthetic therapy. Different materials are used for this purpose. In the dental technical workflow, recordings are used to mount a lower jaw cast in a patient-like spatial position relative to the upper jaw cast. We evaluated the accuracy of positioning under the influence of different jaw positions and materials. Materials and methods: In an experimental setup, comprising an articulator, a pair of metal casts, and an optoelectronic measurement system, the spatial position of the incisal point and two condylar points were measured. To evaluate the accuracy of repeated repositioning of casts in the technical workflow, 324 measurements were taken from 108 recordings, consisting of silicone bite-stops made of addition curing silicone with 95 shore hardness, acrylic wafers, and wax recordings. The recordings were obtained in four jaw relations differing in vertical and protrusive components. Results: Of the three materials/material combinations examined, silicone showed the most consistent results across all measurements, followed by the acrylic wafer system, and then wax recordings. Generally, recordings with smaller gaps between the jaws and no protrusive components showed greater deviations compared to jaw positions with greater protrusion and higher vertical dimensions. Conclusions and clinical relevance: To achieve reliable model mounting with high accuracy, recordings should include the use of a frontal jig and four small recording platelets made of silicone, especially if only a slight elevation of the vertical dimension is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When Kuhn first published his Structure of Scientific Revolutions he was accused of promoting an “irrationalist” account of science. Although it has since been argued that this charge is unfair in one aspect or another, the early criticism still exerts an influence on our understanding of Kuhn. In particular, normal science is often characterized as dogmatic and uncritical, even by commentators sympathetic to Kuhn. I argue not only that there is no textual evidence for this view but also that normal science is much better understood as being based on epistemically justified commitment to a paradigm and as pragmatic in its handling of anomalies. I also argue that normal science is an example of what I call Kuhn’s program of revisionary rational reconstruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radio signals transmitted by Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) satellites experience tropospheric delays. While the hydrostatic part, referred to as zenith hydrostatic delay (ZHD) when mapped to the zenith direction, can be analytically modelled with sufficient accuracy, the wet part, referred to as zenith wet delay (ZWD), is much more difficult to determine and needs to be estimated. Thus, there exist several ZWD models which are used for various applications such as positioning and climate research. In this study, we present a data-driven, global model of the spatial ZWD field, based on the Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost). The model takes the geographical location, the time, and a number of meteorological variables (in particular, specific humidity at several pressure levels) as input, and can predict ZWD anywhere on Earth as long as the input features are available. It was trained on ZWDs at 10718 GNSS stations and tested on ZWDs at 2684 GNSS stations for the year 2019. Across all test stations and all observations, the trained model achieved a mean absolute error of 6.1 mm, respectively, a root mean squared error of 8.1 mm. Comparisons of the XGBoost-based ZWD predictions with independently computed ZWDs and baseline models underline the good performance of the proposed model. Moreover, we analysed regional and monthly models, as well as the seasonal behaviour of the ZWD predictions in different climate zones, and found that the global model exhibits a high predictive skill in all regions and across all months of the year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of 0.1 wt.% Ca addition, heat treatment, and SPD processing using the MaxStrain module of the Gleeble thermomechanical simulator on the microstructure, mechanical properties, and electrical conductivity of Cu–0.7Mg (wt.%) alloy were investigated in this work. The binary alloy exhibited a single-phase microstructure, whereas the ternary alloy featured uniform dispersion of Cu5Ca intermetallic particles inside the grains as well as on grain boundaries. These particles resulted in an average hardness that was 33% higher than that of the binary alloy, as well as 13% higher yield strength and 13% higher ultimate tensile strength. The heat treatment process not only enhanced the yield strength and ultimate tensile strength of the samples, but also resulted in the partial spheroidization of Cu5Ca particles within the microstructure of the ternary alloy, resulting in its improved ductility. Following MaxStrain processing, ternary samples exhibited a smaller grain size and a higher fraction of high-angle grain boundaries than binary samples, which was attributed to the vital role of Cu5Ca intermetallic particles in hindering the dislocation motion during deformation. MaxStrain-processed samples exhibited marginally lower electrical conductivities than their initial counterparts; yet, all MaxStrain-processed samples satisfied the electrical conductivity threshold for classification as HSHC Cu alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the importance of assessing myocardial viability in patients with heart failure, particularly those with an ischemic origin of cardiomyopathy. The restoration of coronary blood flow can improve left ventricular function and cardiovascular outcomes in these patients, but there are factors that can hinder the success of coronary revascularization. The article also highlights the limitations of the STICH trial, which investigated the benefits of revascularization in ischemic heart failure patients. The evaluation of myocardial viability has shifted from stable ischemic cardiomyopathy to patients with acute coronary syndrome, and newer imaging techniques are emerging to predict adverse cardiac remodeling. Overall, the article emphasizes the need for individualized treatment options to optimize recovery in left ventricular function and clinical outcomes in this high-risk population. [Extracted from the article]