bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Progress in diagnosing and treating thyroid squamous cell carcinoma under the 5th edition of WHO classification
Authors: Ding Wei , Gao Xiaofan , Ran Xuan
Published: January 2024

Squamous cell carcinoma of the thyroid (SCCT) is a rare thyroid gland malignancy, with only a few hundred cases reported in the literature, mostly as case reports or small sample studies. In the previous WHO classification, squamous cell carcinoma of the thyroid was defined as a carcinoma composed entirely of squamous cells without differentiated carcinoma components. It was once included in the WHO tumor classification separately. However, the 2022 WHO classification of squamous cell carcinoma of the thyroid was reclassified as a morphologic subtype of anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC). The squamous cell carcinoma pattern is similar to the other histologic types of ATC, but the phenotype associated has a poorer prognosis. The typical clinical manifestation of this condition is a cervical mass, accompanied by indications and symptoms of compression on adjacent structures such as the esophagus and trachea in advanced stages. Secondary squamous cell carcinoma of the thyroid may occur due to the spread of squamous carcinoma of the larynx or esophagus or distant metastases from other sites. Diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma of the thyroid includes neck Ultrasound (US), Computed Tomography (CT) or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), puncture tissue biopsy, and full endoscopy to identify metastatic lesions from the nasopharynx, oropharynx, hypopharynx, larynx, esophagus, or bronchi and to help with the initial staging of the tumor. Current treatment modalities include surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or a combination. Because of the poor prognosis of patients with this disease, the short survival period, usually less than one year, and the difficulty of preoperative diagnosis, this article reviews the epidemiological features, origin, clinical features, pathological features, and differential diagnosis to improve the diagnosis and treatment of this disease by clinicians.
Numerical simulation of ice plugging process using multi-jacket method in nuclear power pipes
Authors: Zhang Wei , Xu Ke , Hu Ming-Lei , Liang Hui-Jie , Chen Hao , Wang Li-Qun , Feng Yong-Qiang
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Ice plugs acts as isolate maintenance sections during pipeline repairs in nuclear power plants can effectively reduce maintenance costs, which is formed by the cooling of liquid nitrogen. The single-jacket freezing method takes a long time for the formation of ice plugs with a certain load-bearing capacity, increasing the liquid nitrogen consumption.

Methods: In this study, a multiple-jacket method for the formation of ice plugs was proposed, and the numerical simulation using CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) was conducted. The effects of total jacket length and jacket number on freezing time and the consumption of liquid nitrogen were analyzed.

Results and Discussion: Research indicated that the multiple-jacket method obtained a 11%∼15% decrease in freezing time and a 18%∼26% decrease in liquid nitrogen consumption than the single-jacket method. For the multiple-jacket method, the gap between the jackets presented a certain influence on the freezing time and liquid nitrogen consumption. As the gap between the jackets increases, there exist a small increase in the freezing time, but the liquid nitrogen consumption will be reduced by 2% to 5%.
How do companies with different life cycles respond to carbon trading?—Analysis of the moderating role of government subsidies
Authors: Guo Xiaoxu , Zhang Yue
Published: January 2024

Enterprises with diverse life cycles possess distinct survival and operational laws. Hence, it is crucial to comprehend whether all these enterprises can proficiently engage in green innovation under the guidance of carbon emissions trading (CET). This study leverages the quasi-natural experiment of CET policy, employing panel data encompassing A-share listed companies in Shanghai and Shenzhen spanning from 2008 to 2020. Through the application of the triple difference model, the research examines the influence of CET policy on the green innovation endeavors of enterprises characterized by various life cycles. The research outcomes reveal the following: 1) CET policy significantly impacts the green innovation of mature enterprises, and contributes to the enrichment of the quality of their green innovation endeavors. 2) Due to limitations pertaining to financing constraints and business expansion, CET policy fails to foster green innovation within the growth and decline phases of enterprises. 3) Government subsidies can overturn the unfavorable position of growth-stage enterprises in carbon emissions trading and propel them towards heightened green innovation. However, government subsidies do not yield a substantial moderating effect on the green innovation endeavors of maturity-stage enterprises. Simultaneously, even if declining-phase enterprises are subjected to government subsidies, these subsidies do not reverse their innovation disadvantage in carbon emissions rights trading. In addition, we also found that in areas with heightened public awareness of environmental protection and state-owned enterprises, the positive regulatory effect of government subsidies is more significant. The findings derived from this study bestow invaluable insights for decision-makers striving to optimize the implementation of the CET policy and effectively allocate government subsidies.
Perspective to precision medicine in scleroderma
Authors: Komura Kazuhiro , Yanaba Koichi , Bouaziz Jean-David , Yoshizaki Ayumi , Hasegawa Minoru , Varga John , Takehara Kazuhiko , Matsushita Takashi
Published: January 2024

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare and heterogeneous disease with no relevant environmental trigger or significant responsible gene. It has been and will continue to be difficult to identify large enough patients to conduct classic population-based epidemiologic exposure/non-exposure studies with adequate power to ascertain environmental and genetic risk factors for these entities. The complexity of pathogenesis and heterogeneity are likely to require personalized/precision medicine for SSc. Since several potential drugs are currently available for specific patients if not whole SSc, classification of SSc seems to form the foundation for a better therapeutic strategy. To date, SSc has been classified based on the extent/severity of the affected area as well as some disease markers, including the autoantibody profile. However, such an analysis should also lead to improvements in the design of appropriately stratified clinical trials to determine the effects and prediction of targeted therapies. An approach based on drug response preclinically conducted using patients’ own fibroblasts in vitro, can provide a precise disease marker/therapeutic selection for clinical practice. Because scleroderma dermal fibroblasts have a persistent hyper-productive phenotype occurring not only in person, but also in cell culture conditions. Thus, an accumulating approach based on disease markers ensures progression and de-escalation to re-establish a better life with a personally optimized drug environment after the onset of SSc.
An E3 ubiquitin-proteasome gene signature for predicting prognosis in patients with pancreatic cancer
Authors: Yin Taoyuan , Wen Jingjing , Xu Simiao , Chen Lin , Zhang Zhenxiong , Pan Shutao , Zhou Min , Guo Xingjun , Wang Min , Gong Jun , Zhang Hang , Qin Renyi
Published: January 2024

Pancreatic cancer is the seventh leading cause of cancer death worldwide, which is demonstrated with remarkable resistance to radiotherapy and chemotherapy. The identification of prognosis signature and novel prognostic markers will facilitate patient stratification and an individualized precision therapy strategy. In this study, TCGA-PAAD was used to screen prognostic E3 ubiquitin ligases and establish prognostic signatures, and GEO database was used to verify the accuracy of prognostic signatures. Functional analysis, in vitro experiments and clinical cohort studies were used to analyze the function and prognostic efficacy of the target gene. An E3 ligase-based signature of 9 genes and the nomogram were developed, and the signature was proved to accurately predict the prognosis of patients with pancreatic cancer. WDR37 might be the most prognostic E3 ubiquitin ligase in pancreatic cancer, and the clinical cohort analyses suggested a tumor‐suppressive role. The results of functional analysis and in vitro experiments indicated that WDR37 may promote the degradation of TCP1 complex to inhibit tumor and improve immune cell infiltration. The E3 ligase-based signature accurately predicted the prognosis of patients with pancreatic cancer, so it can be used as a decision-making tool to guide the treatment of patients with pancreatic cancer. At the same time, WDR37, the main gene in E3PMP signature, can be used as the most prognostic E3 ubiquitin ligase in the treatment of pancreatic cancer.
Evidence of a small, island-associated population of common bottlenose dolphins in the Mariana Islands
Authors: Martien Karen K. , Hill Marie C. , Archer Frederick I. , Baird Robin W. , Bendlin Andrea R. , Dolar Louella , Ligon Allan D. , Oleson Erin M. , Robertson Kelly M. , Woodman Samuel M. , Ü Adam C. , Yano Kymberly M. , Bradford Amanda L.
Published: January 2024

Small, island-associated populations of cetaceans have evolved around numerous oceanic islands, likely due to habitat discontinuities between nearshore and offshore waters. However, little is known about the ecology and structure of cetacean populations around the Mariana Islands, a remote archipelago in the western Pacific Ocean. We present sighting, photo-identification, and genetic data collected during twelve years of surveys around these islands that reveal the existence of a small, island-associated population of bottlenose dolphins. Nearly half of the photo-identified individuals were encountered in more than one year. Both haplotypic and nuclear genetic diversity among sampled individuals was low (haplotypic diversity = 0.701, nuclear heterozygosity = 0.658), suggesting low abundance. We used mark-recapture analysis of photo-identification data to estimate yearly abundance in the southern portion of the population’s range from 2011 to 2018. Each abundance estimate was less than 54 individuals, with each upper 95% confidence interval below 100. Additional survey effort is necessary to generate a full population abundance estimate. We found extensive introgression of Fraser’s dolphin DNA into both the mitochondrial and nuclear genomes of the population, suggesting at least two hybridization events more than two generations in the past. The Mariana Islands are used extensively by the U.S. military for land and sea training operations. Thus, this unique bottlenose dolphin population likely faces high exposure to multiple threats.
Expert opinions and clinical experiences with chlormethine gel as maintenance treatment for patients with mycosis fungoides
Authors: Geskin Larisa , Querfeld Christiane , Hodak Emmilia , Nikbakht Neda , Papadavid Evangelia , Ardigò Marco , Wehkamp Ulrike , Bagot Martine
Published: January 2024

Maintenance treatment can be recommended for patients with mycosis fungoides (MF) whose disease responds to primary treatment. While positive outcomes have been observed in small studies with maintenance therapy, there is a lack of practical guidelines and agreement on when and how maintenance therapy for MF should be approached. In this article, we discuss expert opinions and clinical experiences on the topic of maintenance therapy for patients with MF, with a focus on chlormethine gel. Ideally, patients should have a durable response before initiating maintenance therapy. The definition of and required duration of durable response are topics that are open to debate and currently have no consensus. Chlormethine gel has several attributes that make it suitable for maintenance therapy; it can be easily applied at home, can be combined with other treatment options for maintenance, and has a manageable safety profile. Chlormethine gel as maintenance therapy can be applied at decreasing frequencies after active treatment with chlormethine gel or other therapies until the minimally effective dose is reached. Patients generally tend to adhere well to chlormethine gel maintenance regimens and may remain on treatment for several years. The experiences described here may be useful for clinicians when deciding on maintenance treatment regimens for their patients. Development of guidelines based on clinical trial outcomes will be important to ensure the most effective maintenance treatment strategies are used for patients with MF.
Exploration of the hypoglycemic mechanism of Fuzhuan brick tea based on integrating global metabolomics and network pharmacology analysis
Authors: Xiang Xingliang , You Shanqin , Zeng Zhaoxiang , Xu Jinlin , Lin Yuqi , Liu Yukun , Zhang Lijun , Huang Rongzeng , Song Chengwu , Jin Shuna
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Fuzhuan brick tea (FBT) is a worldwide popular beverage which has the appreciable potential in regulating glycometabolism. However, the reports on the hypoglycemic mechanism of FBT remain limited.

Methods: In this study, the hypoglycemic effect of FBT was evaluated in a pharmacological experiment based on Kunming mice. Global metabolomics and network pharmacology were combined to discover the potential target metabolites and genes. In addition, the real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) analysis was performed for verification.

Results: Seven potential target metabolites and six potential target genes were screened using the integrated approach. After RT-qPCR analysis, it was found that the mRNA expression of VEGFA, KDR, MAPK14, and PPARA showed significant differences between normal and diabetes mellitus mice, with a retracement after FBT treatment.

Conclusion: These results indicated that the hypoglycemic effect of FBT was associated with its anti-inflammatory activities and regulation of lipid metabolism disorders. The exploration of the hypoglycemic mechanism of FBT would be meaningful for its further application and development.
ER exit in physiology and disease
Authors: Robinson Claire M. , Duggan Aislinn , Forrester Alison
Published: January 2024

The biosynthetic secretory pathway is comprised of multiple steps, modifications and interactions that form a highly precise pathway of protein trafficking and secretion, that is essential for eukaryotic life. The general outline of this pathway is understood, however the specific mechanisms are still unclear. In the last 15 years there have been vast advancements in technology that enable us to advance our understanding of this complex and subtle pathway. Therefore, based on the strong foundation of work performed over the last 40 years, we can now build another level of understanding, using the new technologies available. The biosynthetic secretory pathway is a high precision process, that involves a number of tightly regulated steps: Protein folding and quality control, cargo selection for Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) exit, Golgi trafficking, sorting and secretion. When deregulated it causes severe diseases that here we categorise into three main groups of aberrant secretion: decreased, excess and altered secretion. Each of these categories disrupts organ homeostasis differently, effecting extracellular matrix composition, changing signalling events, or damaging the secretory cells due to aberrant intracellular accumulation of secretory proteins. Diseases of aberrant secretion are very common, but despite this, there are few effective therapies. Here we describe ER exit sites (ERES) as key hubs for regulation of the secretory pathway, protein quality control and an integratory hub for signalling within the cell. This review also describes the challenges that will be faced in developing effective therapies, due to the specificity required of potential drug candidates and the crucial need to respect the fine equilibrium of the pathway. The development of novel tools is moving forward, and we can also use these tools to build our understanding of the acute regulation of ERES and protein trafficking. Here we review ERES regulation in context as a therapeutic strategy.
Cognition in vestibular disorders: state of the field, challenges, and priorities for the future
Authors: Smith Laura J. , Wilkinson David , Bodani Mayur , Surenthiran S. S.
Published: January 2024

Vestibular disorders are prevalent and debilitating conditions of the inner ear and brain which affect balance, coordination, and the integration of multisensory inputs. A growing body of research has linked vestibular disorders to cognitive problems, most notably attention, visuospatial perception, spatial memory, and executive function. However, the mechanistic bases of these cognitive sequelae remain poorly defined, and there is a gap between our theoretical understanding of vestibular cognitive dysfunction, and how best to identify and manage this within clinical practice. This article takes stock of these shortcomings and provides recommendations and priorities for healthcare professionals who assess and treat vestibular disorders, and for researchers developing cognitive models and rehabilitation interventions. We highlight the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration for developing and evaluating clinically relevant theoretical models of vestibular cognition, to advance research and treatment.
Apathy in Lewy body disease and its effects on functional impairment over time
Authors: Zhu Carolyn W. , Grossman Hillel T. , Elder Gregory A. , Rosen Howie , Sano Mary
Published: January 2024

Background and objectives

Apathy strongly affects function in Alzheimer’s disease and frontotemporal dementia, however its effect on function in Lewy Body Disease (LBD) has not been well-described. This study aims to (1) examine the prevalence and persistence of apathy in a large, national cohort of well-characterized patients with LBD, and (2) estimate the effect of apathy on function over time.

Methods

Study included 676 participants with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia in the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center Uniform Data Set. Participants were followed for an average of 3.4 ± 1.7 years and consistently had a primary diagnosis of LBD. Apathy was defined by clinician judgment, categorized into four mutually exclusive profiles: (1) never apathetic across all visits, (2) at least one but <50% of visits with apathy (intermittent apathy), (3) ≥50% but not all visits with apathy (persistent apathy), and (4) always apathy across all visits. Dementia severity was measured by baseline Clinical Dementia Rating score. Parkinsonism was defined by the presence of bradykinesia, resting tremor, rigidity, gait, and postural instability. Functional impairment was assessed using the Functional Assessment Questionnaire (FAQ).

Results

Baseline characteristics of the sample were: average age = 72.9 ± 6.9, years of education = 15.6 ± 3.4, Mini Mental State Exam (MMSE) = 24.4 ± 5.4, Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) = 3.8 ± 3.2, FAQ = 12.0 ± 9.1. 78.8% were male and 89% were non-Hispanic white. Prevalence of apathy increased from 54.4% at baseline to 65.5% in year 4. 77% of participants had apathy at some point during follow-up. Independent of cognitive status and parkinsonian features, FAQ was significantly higher in participants with intermittent/persistent and always apathetic than never apathetic. Annual rate of decline in FAQ was faster in participants who were always apathetic than never apathy.

Discussion

In this large national longitudinal cohort of LBD patients with cognitive impairment, apathy was strongly associated with greater functional impairment at baseline and faster rate of decline over time. The magnitude of these effects were clinically important and were observed beyond the effects on function from participants’ cognitive status and parkinsonism, highlighting the importance of specifically assessing for apathy in LBD.
The impacts of Ramadan fasting for patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): a systematic review
Authors: Lin Xiaoxiao , Wu Guomin , Huang Jinyu
Published: January 2024

Background

Numerous studies have explored the impacts of Ramadan fasting on Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Therefore, the objective of this systematic review was to analyze and summarize all clinical studies regarding the impacts of Ramadan fasting for patients with NAFLD.

Methods

We performed a comprehensive search of the Embase, Cochrane, and PubMed databases from inception to September 1, 2023. All clinical studies concerning the impacts of Ramadan fasting on patients with NAFLD were included.

Results

In total, six studies with 397 NAFLD patients comprising five prospective studies and one retrospective study were included in the systematic review. All six studies were assessed as high-quality. Ramadan fasting may offer potential benefits for patients with NAFLD, including improvements in body weight, body composition, cardiometabolic risk factors, glucose profiles, liver parameters, and inflammation markers.

Conclusion

Ramadan fasting might be an effective dietary intervention for NAFLD. However, the number of studies examining the impacts of Ramadan fasting for patients with NAFLD is relatively limited. Therefore, more high-quality research is needed to further our understanding of the benefits of Ramadan fasting for NAFLD.

Systematic review registration

https://inplasy.com, identifier 202390102.
Comparison of the transcriptome and metabolome of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) proteins content during grain formation provides insight
Authors: Shi Jia , Wang Lihong , Wang Zhong , Li Jianfeng , Zhang Hongzhi , Gao Xin , Wang Chunsheng , Xia Jianqiang , Zhao Zhun , Wang Zhenlong , Yang Zhenyu , Xu Zihan , Zhang Yueqiang , Fan Zheru
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Wheat is a food crop with a large global cultivation area, and the content and quality of wheat glutenin accumulation are important indicators of the quality of wheat flour.

Methods

To elucidate the gene expression regulation and metabolic characteristics related to the gluten content during wheat grain formation, transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses were performed for the high gluten content of the Xinchun 26 cultivar and the low proteins content of the Xinchun 34 cultivar at three periods (7 d, 14 d and 21 d) after flowering.

Results

Transcriptomic analysis revealed that 5573 unique differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were divided into two categories according to their expression patterns during the three periods. The metabolites detected were mainly divided into 12 classes. Lipid and lipid-like molecule levels and phenylpropanoid and polyketide levels were the highest, and the difference analysis revealed a total of 10 differentially regulated metabolites (DRMs) over the three periods. Joint analysis revealed that the DEGs and DRMs were significantly enriched in starch and sucrose metabolism; the citrate cycle; carbon fixation in photosynthetic organisms; and alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism pathways. The genes and contents of the sucrose and gluten synthesis pathways were analysed, and the correlation between gluten content and its related genes was calculated. Based on weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA), by constructing a coexpression network, a total of 5 specific modules and 8 candidate genes that were strongly correlated with the three developmental stages of wheat grain were identified.

Discussion

This study provides new insights into the role of glutenin content in wheat grain formation and reveals potential regulatory pathways and candidate genes involved in this developmental process.
Optimizing DUS testing for Chimonanthus praecox using feature selection based on a genetic algorithm
Authors: Zhu Ting , Feng Yaoyao , Dong Xiaoxuan , Yang Ximeng , Liu Bin , Yuan Puying , Song Xingrong , Chen Shanxiong , Sui Shunzhao
Published: January 2024

Chimonanthus praecox is a famous traditional flower in China with high ornamental value. It has numerous varieties, yet its classification is highly disorganized. The distinctness, uniformity, and stability (DUS) test enables the classification and nomenclature of various species; thus, it can be used to classify the Chimonanthus varieties. In this study, flower traits were quantified using an automatic system based on pattern recognition instead of traditional manual measurement to improve the efficiency of DUS testing. A total of 42 features were quantified, including 28 features in the DUS guidelines and 14 new features proposed in this study. Eight algorithms were used to classify wintersweet, and the random forest (RF) algorithm performed the best when all features were used. The classification accuracy of the outer perianth was the highest when the features of the different parts were used for classification. A genetic algorithm was used as the feature selection algorithm to select a set of 22 reduced core features and improve the accuracy and efficiency of the classification. Using the core feature set, the classification accuracy of the RF model improved to 99.13%. Finally, K-means was used to construct a pedigree cluster tree of 23 varieties of wintersweet; evidently, wintersweet was clustered into a single class, which can be the basis for further study of genetic relationships among varieties. This study provides a novel method for DUS detection, variety identification, and pedigree analysis.
Subjective well-being among PhD students in mainland China: the roles of psychological capital and academic engagement
Authors: Cao Fei , Zhang Li-fang , Li Mengting , Xie Zhengli
Published: January 2024

The mental well-being of PhD students is a major concern in higher education. However, very few studies have investigated the influencing factors of PhD students’ subjective well-being (SWB) – an important indicator of mental well-being. Even no study on the influencing factors of PhD students’ SWB has been undertaken in mainland China. Based on job demands–resources theory, the present study pioneers the investigation of the relationship between PhD students’ psychological capital (PsyCap; comprising self-efficacy, hope, resilience, and optimism) and SWB (comprising positive affect, negative affect, and life satisfaction) in mainland China. It further examined the mediating role of academic engagement (comprising vigor, dedication, and absorption) in this relationship. PhD students (n = 376) from two comprehensive universities in Jiangsu province responded to an online survey. The results showed that (1) self-efficacy was positively associated with life satisfaction, hope was positively associated with positive affect, optimism was significantly associated with all three dimensions of SWB, but resilience was not significantly associated with any of the three SWB dimensions; and (2) dedication mediated the relationship between hope and life satisfaction and that between optimism and negative affect and life satisfaction, but vigor and absorption did not mediate any of the PsyCap–SWB relationships. Limitations and practical implications of this study are discussed.
Recurrent cannabis-induced catatonia: a case report and comprehensive systematic literature review
Authors: Moshfeghinia Reza , Hosseinzadeh Mehrnaz , Mostafavi Sara , Jabbarinejad Roxana , Malekpour Mahdi , Chohedri Elnaz , Ahmadi Jamshid
Published: January 2024

Background

Catatonia presents itself as a complex neuropsychiatric syndrome, giving rise to various motor, speech, and behavioral challenges. It is noteworthy that approximately 10% of psychiatric hospital admissions can be attributed to this condition. It is imperative to note that cannabis-induced catatonia, while infrequent, has been linked to the use of marijuana. This connection has the potential to disrupt neurotransmitter systems, necessitating further research for a comprehensive understanding and effective treatment, particularly given the evolving trends in cannabis use. In this context, we shall delve into a unique case of recurrent cannabis-induced catatonia.

Case presentation

A 23-year-old gentleman, who has previously struggled with substance use disorder, experienced the emergence of mutism, social isolation, and a fixed gaze subsequent to his use of cannabis. Remarkably, despite the absence of hallucinations, he exhibited recurrent episodes of catatonia. These episodes were effectively addressed through a combination of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and lorazepam administration. Notably, when the lorazepam dosage was gradually reduced to below 2 mg per day, the catatonic symptoms resurfaced; however, they promptly abated upon reinstating the medication. The diagnosis of cannabis-induced catatonia was established, and its management primarily involved a therapeutic approach encompassing ECT and lorazepam. It is pertinent to underscore that this catatonic condition can be directly linked to the individual’s cannabis usage.

Conclusion

The connection between cannabis and catatonia is intricate and not entirely comprehended. Although cannabis possesses therapeutic advantages, it can paradoxically trigger catatonia in certain individuals. Multiple factors, such as genetics, cannabinoids, and neurotransmitter systems, contribute to this intricacy, underscoring the necessity for additional research.
The positivity rates and drug resistance patterns of Mycobacterium tuberculosis using nucleotide MALDI-TOF MS assay among suspected tuberculosis patients in Shandong, China: a multi-center prospective study
Authors: Gao Xusheng , Li Tongxia , Han Wenge , Xiong Yu , Xu Shiyang , Ma Hongbao , Wang Qing , Zhang Qiuxia , Yang Guofeng , Xie Dan , Jiang Peipei , Wu Hailiang , Lin Mei , Liu Min , Ni Mingde , Wang Decui , Li Ying , Jiao Lunxian , Ding Caihong , Zhang Zhongfa
Published: January 2024

Objective

To investigate the positivity rates and drug resistance characteristics of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) among suspected tuberculosis (TB) patients in Shandong Province, the second-largest population province in China.

Methods

A prospective, multi-center study was conducted from April 2022 to June 2023. Pathogen and drug resistance were identified using nucleotide matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (nucleotide MALDI-TOF MS).

Results

Of 940 suspected TB patients included in this study, 552 cases were found to be infected with MTB giving an overall positivity rate of 58.72%. Total of 346 cases were resistant to arbitrary anti-TB drug (62.68%), with Zibo (76.47%), Liaocheng and Weihai (both 69.23%) ranking top three and TB treatment history might be a related factor. Monoresistance was the most common pattern (33.53%), with isoniazid the highest at 12.43%, followed by rifampicin at 9.54%. Further analysis of gene mutations conferring resistance revealed diverse types with high heteroresistance rate found in multiple anti-TB drugs.

Conclusion

A relatively high rate of MTB positivity and drug resistance was found in Shandong Province during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, indicating the need for strengthening rapid identification of species and drug resistance among suspected TB patients to guide better medication and minimize the occurrence of drug resistance.
Using a generative adversarial network to generate synthetic MRI images for multi-class automatic segmentation of brain tumors
Authors: Raut P. , Baldini G. , Schöneck M. , Caldeira L.
Published: January 2024

Challenging tasks such as lesion segmentation, classification, and analysis for the assessment of disease progression can be automatically achieved using deep learning (DL)-based algorithms. DL techniques such as 3D convolutional neural networks are trained using heterogeneous volumetric imaging data such as MRI, CT, and PET, among others. However, DL-based methods are usually only applicable in the presence of the desired number of inputs. In the absence of one of the required inputs, the method cannot be used. By implementing a generative adversarial network (GAN), we aim to apply multi-label automatic segmentation of brain tumors to synthetic images when not all inputs are present. The implemented GAN is based on the Pix2Pix architecture and has been extended to a 3D framework named Pix2PixNIfTI. For this study, 1,251 patients of the BraTS2021 dataset comprising sequences such as T1w, T2w, T1CE, and FLAIR images equipped with respective multi-label segmentation were used. This dataset was used for training the Pix2PixNIfTI model for generating synthetic MRI images of all the image contrasts. The segmentation model, namely DeepMedic, was trained in a five-fold cross-validation manner for brain tumor segmentation and tested using the original inputs as the gold standard. The inference of trained segmentation models was later applied to synthetic images replacing missing input, in combination with other original images to identify the efficacy of generated images in achieving multi-class segmentation. For the multi-class segmentation using synthetic data or lesser inputs, the dice scores were observed to be significantly reduced but remained similar in range for the whole tumor when compared with evaluated original image segmentation (e.g. mean dice of synthetic T2w prediction NC, 0.74 ± 0.30; ED, 0.81 ± 0.15; CET, 0.84 ± 0.21; WT, 0.90 ± 0.08). A standard paired t-tests with multiple comparison correction were performed to assess the difference between all regions (p < 0.05). The study concludes that the use of Pix2PixNIfTI allows us to segment brain tumors when one input image is missing.
Reliability of assessing skeletal muscle architecture and tissue organization of the gastrocnemius medialis and vastus lateralis muscle using ultrasound and spatial frequency analysis
Authors: Lesinski Melanie , Bashford Gregory , Markov Adrian , Risch Lucie , Cassel Michael
Published: January 2024

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to investigate inter- and intra-rater reliability as well as the inter-rater interpretation error of ultrasound measurements assessing skeletal muscle architecture and tissue organization of the gastrocnemius medialis (GM) and vastus lateralis (VL) muscle.

Methods

The GM and VL of 13 healthy adults (22 ± 3 years) were examined thrice with sagittal B-mode ultrasound: intraday test-retest examination by one investigator (intra-rater) and separate examinations by two investigators (inter-rater). Additionally, images from one investigator were analysed by two interpretators (interpretation error). Muscle architecture was assessed by muscle thickness [MT], fascicle length [FL], as well as superior and inferior pennation angle [PA]. Muscle tissue organization was determined by spatial frequency analysis (SFA: peak spatial frequency radius, peak −6 dB width, PSFR/P6, normalized peak value of amplitude spectrum [Amax], power within peak [PWP], peak power percent). Reliability of ultrasound examination and image interpretation are presented as intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), test-retest variability, standard error of measurement as well as bias and limits of agreement.

Results

GM and VL demonstrated excellent ICCs for inter- and intra-rater reliability, along with excellent ICCs for interpretation error of MT (0.91–0.99), showing minimal variability (<5%) and SEM% (<5%). Systematic bias for MT was less than 1 mm. For PA and FL poor to good ICCs for inter- and intra-rater reliability were revealed (0.41–0.90), with moderate variability (<12%), low SEM% (<10%) and systematic bias between 0.1–1.4°. Tissue organization analysis indicated moderate to good ICCs for inter- and intra-rater reliability. Notably, Amax and PWP consistently held the highest ICC values (0.77–0.87) across all analyses but with higher variability (<24%) and SEM% (<18%), compared to lower variability (<9%) and SEM% (<8%) in other tissue organization parameters. Interpretation error of all muscle tissue organization parameters showed excellent ICCs (0.96–0.999) with very low variability (≤1%) and SEM% (<2%), except Amax & PWP (TRV%: <6%; SEM%: <7%).

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrated excellent inter- and intra-rater reliability for MT. However, agreement for PA, FL, and SFA parameters was not as strong. Additionally, MT and all SFA parameters exhibited excellent agreement for inter-rater interpretation error. Therefore, the SFA seems to offer the possibility of objectively and reliably evaluating ultrasound images.
Exercise professional education, qualifications, and certifications: a content analysis of job postings in the United States
Authors: Pojednic Rachele , O’Neill Devin P. , Flanagan Molly G. , Bartlett Alexis , Carter Byron LaGary , Kennedy Mary A.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Growth in the field of clinical exercise science and the potential impacts on overall health and wellbeing have driven the need for qualified, clinically trained, exercise professionals. And yet, it is not well understood what specific credentials employers are seeking when hiring exercise professionals.

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to examine the qualification requirements for professionals seeking employment in exercise science, exercise physiology, kinesiology or equivalent fields.

Methods

Search platforms Indeed.com and USAJobs.gov were examined within a two week period in 2022. Search terms included “Exercise Physiology”, “Exercise Science”, “Exercise Professional”, “Exercise Prescription”, “Exercise Specialist”, and “Kinesiology”.

Results

A total of n = 739 jobs were retrieved and n = 615 jobs were included: Exercise Science (n = 227), Kinesiology (n = 210), Exercise Physiology (n = 91), Exercise specialist (n = 53), and Exercise prescription (n = 32). Over 70% of the jobs analyzed required a bachelor's degree with the remainder requiring various levels of education. The primary certification required was personal trainer (n = 94), followed by strength and conditioning specialist (n = 33), clinical exercise physiologist (n = 26), group exercise (n = 17), exercise specialist (n = 10), and exercise physiologist (n = 5). Four job focus areas were determined: academic teaching and research, general fitness and worksite wellness, athletic performance and rehabilitation, clinical exercise specialist all with varying levels of degree and certification requirements.

Discussion

Job postings related to exercise related professions are varied across the United States with wide-ranging education, credentialing and certification requirements. These findings indicate the timely need for outreach to employers to highlight changing credentialing requirements due to evolving accreditation standards.
Access to veterinary care: evaluating working definitions, barriers, and implications for animal welfare
Authors: Pasteur Kayla , Diana Alessia , Yatcilla Jane Kinkus , Barnard Shanis , Croney Candace C.
Published: January 2024

Humans have a moral obligation to meet the physical and mental needs of the animals in their care. This requires access to resources such as veterinary care, which is integral to achieving animal welfare. However, “access” to veterinary care is not always homogenous across communities and currently lacks a consistent definition. The objectives of this scoping review were to (1) understand how “access” to veterinary care has been defined in the literature, (2) map a broad list of potential barriers that may influence access to veterinary care, and (3) identify how access to care impacts the welfare of companion and livestock animals. The literature search yielded a total of 1,044 publications, 77 of which were relevant to our inclusion criteria, and were published between 2002 and 2022. Studies were most frequently conducted in the United States (n = 17) and Canada (n = 11). Publications defining access to veterinary care (n = 10) or discussing its impacts on animal welfare (n = 13) were minimal. However, barriers to accessing veterinary care were thoroughly discussed in the literature (n = 69) and were categorized into ten themes according to common challenges and keywords, with financial limitations (n = 57), geographic location (n = 35), and limited personnel/equipment (n = 32) being the most frequently reported. The results of this scoping review informed our proposed definition of access to veterinary care. Additionally, our findings identified a need to further investigate several understudied barriers relating to access to care (i.e., veterinarian-client relationship, client identity) and to better understand how they potentially affect animal welfare outcomes.
Clinical significance of integrin αV and β superfamily members and focal adhesion kinase activity in oral squamous cell carcinoma: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Sakurai Shigeru , Ishida Yasutaka , Shintani Tomoaki , Yamasaki Sachiko , Matsui Kensaku , Hamana Tomoaki , Nobumoto Tadayoshi , Yanamoto Souichi , Hayashido Yasutaka
Published: January 2024

Objectives: Integrins are heterodimeric transmembrane plasma membrane proteins composed of α- and β-chains. They bind to extracellular matrix (ECM) and cytoskeletal proteins as ECM protein receptors. Upon ECM protein binding, integrins activate focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and transduce various signals. Despite their importance, integrin and FAK expression in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) tissue and the prognosis of patients with OSCC remains elusive.

Methods: In a retrospective observational study, we immunohistochemically evaluated integrin αV, β1, β3, β5, β6, FAK, and phosphorylated-FAK (pFAK) expressions as prognostic predictors in 96 patients with OSCC. Patients were classified as positive or negative based on staining intensity, and clinicopathologic characteristics and survival rates of the two groups were compared. The association between above integrin-related proteins and PD-1 or PD-L1 in OSCC tissues was investigated.

Results: We observed immunohistochemical integrin αV, β1, β6, β8, and FAK expressions in the cell membrane and cytoplasm but not integrin β3 and β5 in the OSCC tissues. pFAK was expressed in the cytoplasm of OSCC cells. The overall survival rate significantly decreased in pFAK-positive OSCC patients compared to the negative group, and cervical lymph node metastasis significantly increased in integrin β8-positive patients with OSCC (p < 0.05). No association between integrin-related proteins and PD-1 or PD-L1 in OSCC tissues was observed.

Conclusion: Our results indicate that pFAK and integrin β8 are prognostic factors for OSCC. Therefore, pFAK- and integrin β8-targeting new oral cancer diagnostic and therapeutic methods hold a promising potential.
Sustainability-Driven Design of Aircraft Composite Components
Authors: Filippatos Angelos , Markatos Dionysios , Tzortzinis Georgios , Abhyankar Kaushik , Malefaki Sonia , Gude Maik , Pantelakis Spiros
Published: January 2024

The current prevailing trend in design across key sectors prioritizes eco-design, emphasizing considerations of environmental aspects in the design process. The present work aims to take a significant leap forward by proposing a design process where sustainability serves as the primary driving force. In this context, sustainability is positioned as a fundamental component to be integrated into the initial stages of design, introducing innovative multidisciplinary criteria that redefine the design paradigm. Within this framework, sustainability is characterized using a comprehensive and quantifiable index encompassing technological, environmental, economic, and circular economy dimensions. To demonstrate the practical application of sustainability as the primary criterion in designing mechanical components, a parametrized finite element model of a composite plate is utilized, integrating both pristine and recycled fibers. Subsequently, a demonstrator derived from the aviation industry—specifically, a hat stiffener—is employed as a validation platform for the proposed methodology, ensuring alignment with the demonstrator’s specific requirements. Various representative trade-off scenarios are implemented to guide engineers’ decision-making during the conceptual design phase. Additionally, the robustness of the aforementioned methodology is thoroughly assessed concerning changes in the priority assigned to each sustainability criterion and its sensitivity to variations in the initial data. The significance of the proposed design methodology lies in its effectiveness in addressing the complex challenges presented by conflicting sustainability objectives. Furthermore, its adaptability positions it for potential application across various sectors, offering a transformative approach to sustainable engineering practices.
A Historical Survey of Corrective and Preventive Maintenance Models with Imperfect Inspections: Cases of Constant and Non-Constant Probabilities of Decision Making
Authors: Ulansky Vladimir , Raza Ahmed
Published: January 2024

Maintenance strategies play a crucial role in ensuring the reliability and performance of complex systems. Imperfect inspections, characterized by the probabilities of false positives and false negatives, significantly impact the effectiveness of maintenance decisions. This survey explores maintenance models under imperfect inspections, characterized by constant and non-constant probabilities of false positives and false negatives. This study investigates various maintenance approaches, such as preventive and corrective maintenance, and evaluates their performance, considering the uncertainties introduced by imperfect inspections. By analyzing the existing literature and research findings, this survey provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with maintenance decision making in the presence of inspection imperfections. The comparison between maintenance models with constant and non-constant probabilities of false positives and false negatives sheds light on the dynamic nature of these models, enabling a deeper understanding of their real-world applicability and effectiveness. This comprehensive overview is a valuable resource for researchers, practitioners, and decision makers involved in maintenance planning and optimization in diverse industrial sectors.
Antimicrobial Susceptibility and Characterization of Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase-Producing Escherichia coli Isolated from Stools of Primary Healthcare Patients in Ethiopia
Authors: Wolde Deneke , Eguale Tadesse , Alemayehu Haile , Medhin Girmay , Haile Aklilu Feleke , Pirs Mateja , Strašek Smrdel Katja , Avberšek Jana , Kušar Darja , Cerar Kišek Tjaša , Janko Tea , Steyer Andrej , Starčič Erjavec Marjanca
Published: January 2024

Antimicrobial resistance of Escherichia coli is a growing problem in both developed and developing countries. This study aimed to investigate the phenotypic antimicrobial resistance of E. coli isolates (n = 260) isolated from the stool specimen of patients attending public health facilities in Addis Ababa and Hossana. This study also aimed to characterize phenotypically confirmed extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing E. coli isolates (n = 22) using whole-genome sequencing. Resistance to 18 different antimicrobials was assessed using the disc diffusion method according to the European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (EUCAST) guidelines. The highest resistance rate among the E. coli isolates was found for ampicillin (52.7%), followed by trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (29.6%). Of all isolates, 50 (19.2%) were multidrug-resistant and 22 (8.5%) were ESBL producers. ESBL genes were detected in 94.7% of the sequenced E. coli isolates, and multiple β-lactamase genes were detected in 57.9% of the isolates. The predominant ESBL gene identified was blaCTX-M-15 (78.9%). The blaTEM-1B gene was detected in combination with other ESBL genes in 57.9% of the isolates, while only one of the sequenced isolates contained the blaTEM-1B gene alone. The blaCTX-M-3 gene was detected in three isolates. The genes blaCTX-M-15 and blaTEM-1B as well as blaCTX-M-15 and blaTEM-169 were confirmed to coexist in 52.6% and 10.5% of the sequenced E. coli isolates, respectively. In addition, blaOXA-1 was identified together with blaCTX-M-15 and blaTEM-1B in one isolate, and in one isolate, blaTEM-169 together with blaCTX-M-15 and blaTEM-1B was found. The results obtained show that measures need to be taken to reduce the spread of drug resistance and ensure the long-term use of available antimicrobials.