bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GPU-accelerated OCT imaging: Real-time data processing and artifact suppression for enhanced monitoring of 3D bioprinted tissues and vascular-like networks
Authors: Yang Shanshan , Zhou Jinhao , Guo Hao , Wang Ling , Xu Mingen
Published: June 2024

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging technology has significant advantages in in situ and noninvasive monitoring of biological tissues. However, it still faces the following challenges: including data processing speed, image quality, and improvements in three-dimensional (3D) visualization effects. OCT technology, especially functional imaging techniques like optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA), requires a long acquisition time and a large data size. Despite the substantial increase in the acquisition speed of swept source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT), it still poses significant challenges for data processing. Additionally, during in situ acquisition, image artifacts resulting from interface reflections or strong reflections from biological tissues and culturing containers present obstacles to data visualization and further analysis. Firstly, a customized frequency domain filter with anti-banding suppression parameters was designed to suppress artifact noises. Then, this study proposed a graphics processing unit (GPU)-based real-time data processing pipeline for SS-OCT, achieving a measured line-process rate of 800[Formula: see text]kHz for 3D fast and high-quality data visualization. Furthermore, a GPU-based real-time data processing for CC-OCTA was integrated to acquire dynamic information. Moreover, a vascular-like network chip was prepared using extrusion-based 3D printing and sacrificial materials, with sacrificial material being printed at the desired vascular network locations and then removed to form the vascular-like network. OCTA imaging technology was used to monitor the progression of sacrificial material removal and vascular-like network formation. Therefore, GPU-based OCT enables real-time processing and visualization with artifact suppression, making it particularly suitable for in situ noninvasive longitudinal monitoring of 3D bioprinting tissue and vascular-like networks in microfluidic chips.
High-performance laser speckle contrast image vascular segmentation without delicate pseudo-label reliance
Authors: Yao Shenglan , Wu Huiling , Fu Suzhong , Ling Shuting , Wang Kun , Yang Hongqin , He Yaqin , Ma Xiaolan , Ye Xiaofeng , Wen Xiaofei , Zhao Qingliang
Published: June 2024

Laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI) is a noninvasive, label-free technique that allows real-time investigation of the microcirculation situation of biological tissue. High-quality microvascular segmentation is critical for analyzing and evaluating vascular morphology and blood flow dynamics. However, achieving high-quality vessel segmentation has always been a challenge due to the cost and complexity of label data acquisition and the irregular vascular morphology. In addition, supervised learning methods heavily rely on high-quality labels for accurate segmentation results, which often necessitate extensive labeling efforts. Here, we propose a novel approach LSWDP for high-performance real-time vessel segmentation that utilizes low-quality pseudo-labels for nonmatched training without relying on a substantial number of intricate labels and image pairing. Furthermore, we demonstrate that our method is more robust and effective in mitigating performance degradation than traditional segmentation approaches on diverse style data sets, even when confronted with unfamiliar data. Importantly, the dice similarity coefficient exceeded 85% in a rat experiment. Our study has the potential to efficiently segment and evaluate blood vessels in both normal and disease situations. This would greatly benefit future research in life and medicine.
Formation Configuration Design for Low-Earth Orbit Regional Navigation Satellites
Authors: Fan Jiaqi , Li Wei , Li Qing
Published: June 2024

In the event of a significant natural disaster or a local conflict, the demand for a regional satellite navigation becomes imperative. The navigation can provide accurate position information and navigation augmentation services for regional emergency operations. To satisfy the requirements, a formation configuration of low-Earth orbit (LEO) regional navigation satellites is proposed innovatively. The strategy of fly-around formation consisting of four satellites for LEO regional navigation is determined and a comprehensive configuration design method for the formation is presented, encompassing the determination of configuration parameters, the establishment of dynamic equations and the presentation of performance indicators, including duration of ground coverage, positioning accuracy Geometric Dilution Precision (GDOP) and fuel consumption. The effects of formation radius and orbit altitude on the performance indicators are analyzed, respectively. Based on the above investigations, a method to enhance regional navigation performances by using genetic algorithm (GA) guided by penalty function is introduced. The rationality and feasibility of the formation configuration are verified through simulation studies.
U–Pb apatite geochronology shows multiple thermal overprints within the Neoarchean foreland basement of the Faroe–Shetland Terrane
Authors: Strachan R. A. , Kirkland C. L. , Finlay A. J. , Wray D. S. , Metcalfe J. H. , Holdsworth R. E.
Published: June 2024

The Neoarchean foreland basement of the Faroe–Shetland terrane (FST) displays abundant evidence for isotopic resetting of U–Pb systems in apatite between
c.
1800 and 200 Ma, interpreted to result from episodic heating pulses associated with regional-scale tectonic events. Major apparent age peaks of
c.
1800–1600 Ma broadly correspond to the timing of Nagssugtoqidian–Laxfordian orogenesis >225 km further south. These are thought to reflect widespread heating during late- to post-orogenic delamination that affected a wide area of the orogenic foreland and resulted in a low to middle greenschist-facies static overprint, affecting much of the FST basement. Late- to post-orogenic delamination might also account for major apparent age peaks at
c.
1300–1100, 800 and 500–400 Ma, corresponding to, respectively, Grenvillian, Knoydartian and Caledonian orogenic events. However, east-dipping seismic reflectors in the basement west of Shetland may represent the northward extension of the Grenvillian Outer Hebrides Thrust (Zone) and/or Caledonian thrusts and so perturbation of isotherms during west-directed thrusting could therefore also account for these apparent age peaks. Minor apparent age peaks of
c.
700, 600, 350 and 200 Ma are most easily interpreted as resulting from enhanced heat flux that accompanied periods of crustal extension prior to and following the Caledonian orogeny.
Having Difficulty Understanding Manuals? Automatically Converting User Manuals into Instructional Videos
Authors: Liu Songsong , Wang Shu , Sun Kun
Published: June 2024

While users tend to perceive instructional videos as an experience rather than a lesson with a set of instructions, instructional videos are more effective and appealing than textual user manuals and eliminate the ambiguity in text-based descriptions. However, most software vendors only offer document manuals that describe how to install and use their software, leading burden for non-professionals to comprehend the instructions. In this paper, we present a framework called M2V to generate instructional videos automatically based on the provided instructions and images in user manuals. M2V is a two-step framework. First, an action sequence is extracted from the given user manual via natural language processing and computer vision techniques. Second, M2V operates the software sequentially based on the extracted actions; meanwhile, the operation procedure is recorded into an instructional video. We evaluate the usability of automatically generated instructional videos via user studies and an online survey. The evaluation results show, with our toolkit, the generated instructional videos can better assist non-professional end users with the software operations. Moreover, more than 85% of survey participants prefer to use the instructional videos rather than the original user manuals.
Significant Productivity Gains through Programming with Large Language Models
Authors: Weber Thomas , Brandmaier Maximilian , Schmidt Albrecht , Mayer Sven
Published: June 2024

Large language models like GPT and Codex drastically alter many daily tasks, including programming, where they can rapidly generate code from natural language or informal specifications. Thus, they will change what it means to be a programmer and how programmers act during software development. This work explores how AI assistance for code generation impacts productivity. In our user study (N=24), we asked programmers to complete Python programming tasks supported by a) an auto-complete interface using GitHub Copilot, b) a conversational system using GPT-3, and c) traditionally with just the web browser. Aside from significantly increasing productivity metrics, participants displayed distinctive usage patterns and strategies, highlighting that the form of presentation and interaction affects how users engage with these systems. Our findings emphasize the benefits of AI-assisted coding and highlight the different design challenges for these systems.
User Interface Evaluation Through Implicit-Association Tests
Authors: Cockburn Andy , Hills Declan , Chen Zhe , Gutwin Carl
Published: June 2024

The implicit-association test (IAT) is a method for measuring subconscious associations between concepts in memory. It is widely used in social psychology research for assessing associations that people may be unable or unwilling to articulate, including those relating to race, gender, self harm, and risk-taking behaviour. We describe the motivation for adapting the IAT to user interface evaluation, including its potential to support rapid A/B testing that is amenable to online crowd-source dissemination, while also potentially reducing the validity risks caused by biases such as the good subject effect. We present a method (the UI-IAT) for conducting implicit association tests for A/B user interface evaluation, and we present results of two experiments demonstrating that, although the method can successfully discriminate between 'good' and 'bad' interfaces, its sensitivity is low. We discuss implications for practical use of the UI-IAT and for further work.
Half a step behind – bulk disclosure of confidential data in third-party GenAI solutions under the Swedish Public Access to Information and Secrecy Act
Authors: Lundell Björn , Lindroth Mathias , Gamalielsson Jonas , Katz Andrew , Brax Christoffer , Persson Tomas , Mattsson Anders , Gustavsson Tomas , Feist Jonas , Öberg Jonas
Published: June 2024

Technological progress poses unique challenges for the public sector. New technology should be adopted, but it must always be done within the framework of good administration. It follows laws governing public administration must be continuously adapted. Sweden recently amended its secrecy legislation to facilitate the use of third-party cloud solutions by public authorities. When the amendment was enacted, most public sector organisations had already been using external cloud solutions for a long time. Today, there is as much pressure on authorities to implement AI technology as there ever was to move administration into the cloud. This paper uses traditional legal methodology to investigate if the Swedish secrecy legislation adequately enables the use of cloud-based GenAI solutions. Findings indicate that the recent amendment is likely insufficient and that there are significant practical hurdles for the application of the law, particularly with services from global cloud providers. The paper contributes to the understanding of Swedish law, and of the difficulties that can occur anywhere when policy makers and legislators do not move in tandem.
Lessons Learned from the Sea Star Wasting Disease Investigation
Authors: Hewson Ian , Johnson Mitchell R. , Reyes-Chavez Brandon
Published: June 2024

Marine invertebrate mass mortality events (MMEs) threaten biodiversity and have the potential to catastrophically alter ecosystem structure. A proximal question around acute MMEs is their etiologies and/or environmental drivers. Establishing a robust cause of mortality is challenging in marine habitats due to the complexity of the interactions among species and the free dispersal of microorganisms from surrounding waters to metazoan microbiomes. The 2013–2014 sea star wasting disease (SSWD) MME in the northeast Pacific Ocean highlights the difficulty in establishing responsible agents. In less than a year of scientific investigation, investigators identified a candidate agent and provided at the time convincing data of pathogenic and transmissible disease. However, later investigation failed to support the initial results, and critical retrospective analyses of experimental procedures and reinterpretation of early findings disbanded any candidate agent. Despite the circuitous path that the investigation and understanding of SSWD have taken, lessons learned from the initial investigation—improving on approaches that led to misinterpretation—have been successfully applied to the 2022 Diadema antillarum investigation. In this review, we outline the history of the initial SSWD investigation, examine how early exploration led to spurious interpretations, summarize the lessons learned, provide recommendations for future work in other systems, and examine potential links between the SSWD event and the Diadema antillarum MME.
Evolving Archetypes: Learning from Pathogen Emergence on a Nonmodel Host
Authors: Vlková-Žlebková Markéta , Yuen Fang Wei , McCann Honour C.
Published: June 2024

Research initiatives undertaken in response to disease outbreaks accelerate our understanding of microbial evolution, mechanisms of virulence and resistance, and plant–pathogen coevolutionary interactions. The emergence and global spread of Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae (Psa) on kiwifruit (Actinidia chinensis) showed that there are parallel paths to host adaptation and antimicrobial resistance evolution, accelerated by the movement of mobile elements. Significant progress has been made in identifying type 3 effectors required for virulence and recognition in A. chinensis and Actinidia arguta, broadening our understanding of how host-mediated selection shapes virulence. The rapid development of Actinidia genomics after the Psa3 pandemic began has also generated new insight into molecular mechanisms of immunity and resistance gene evolution in this recently domesticated, nonmodel host. These findings include the presence of close homologs of known resistance genes RPM1 and RPS2 as well as the novel expansion of CCG10-NLRs (nucleotide-binding leucine-rich repeats) in Actinidia spp. The advances and approaches developed during the pandemic response can be applied to new pathosystems and new outbreak events.
LiMn2O4/Graphite Cell Degradation Mechanisms Studying How Mn Deposition Accelerates Lithiated Graphite Reactivity with Electrolyte
Authors: Zsoldos Eniko S. , Eldesoky Ahmed , Logan Eric , Dahn Jeff R.
Published: June 2024

In this work, pouch cells of spinel LiMn2O4 (LMO) / artificial graphite (AG) were tested under varying conditions to investigate degradation mechanisms. Mn dissolution from the positive electrode and deposition onto the graphite negative electrodes immediately after formation was found to be significantly suppressed by operating cells at −10 °C during the formation cycle and limiting the upper cutoff voltage. A formation cycle at an elevated temperature of 70 °C greatly increases the Mn deposition and gas generation from electrolyte reduction after just a single cycle and had long term effects at increasing lifetime gassing and Mn deposition. The cold formation advantage disappeared once all cells were cycled at 40 °C, with similarly terrible cycle life (60–200 cycles) regardless of formation conditions. Studying fully lithiated graphite (LiC6) extracted from LMO cells in an isothermal microcalorimeter (IMC), we found that the parasitic heat flow associated with electrolyte reduction and graphite delithiation increased for anodes with significant Mn deposition. Therefore, Mn deposition on the negative electrode causes cell failure by compromising the anode passivation, increasing lithiated graphite-electrolyte reactivity and thereby accelerating the lithium inventory loss due to electrolyte reduction on the Mn sites on the negative electrode.
Longer‐Term Outcomes of the Yacoub versus Bentall Procedure in a Nationwide Propensity‐Matched Comparison
Authors: Gofus Jan , Jarkovsky Jiri , Klechova Anna , Hlubocky Jaroslav , Cerny Stepan , Urban Martin , Zacek Pavel , Vojacek Jan
Published: June 2024

Background. Aortic root replacement with a composite mechanical valve graft (Bentall procedure) has been a recommended strategy in patients with aortic root aneurysm with or without aortic regurgitation. Aortic root remodeling (Yacoub procedure) has emerged as a valve‐sparing alternative although there is only scarce multicenter evidence. The aim of our study was to provide nationwide comparison of these two strategies. Methods. This was a retrospective study of data from national registry of cardiac surgery. Using propensity‐score matching, we compared all the patients undergoing the Bentall procedure in the Czech Republic between 2010 and 2021 with patients after the Yacoub procedure from four experienced centers. Results. During the study period, 199 patients underwent Yacoub and 526 had Bentall procedure. Of those, 166 pairs were selected and compared. There was no significant difference in perioperative outcomes and in mortality (p = 0.96) over the follow‐up of 5.7 vs. 6.4 years. The Bentall procedure was associated with a higher risk of major bleeding or thromboembolism (p < 0.001), and the Yacoub procedure led to a higher risk of rehospitalizations for valve failure (p = 0.01). Conclusions. In a nationwide propensity‐matched study, Bentall and Yacoub procedures yield similar longer‐term survival. Yacoub offers better freedom from thromboembolism or bleeding at the cost of higher risk of valve failure.
WNK1 Interaction with KEAP1 Promotes NRF2 Stabilization to Enhance the Oxidative Stress Response in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Li Li , Xie Dacheng , Yu Shijun , Ma Muyuan , Fan Kailing , Chen Jingde , Xiu Mengxi , Xie Keping , Li Yandong , Gao Yong
Published: June 2024

Cellular oxidative stress plays a key role in the development and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). A better understanding of the processes that regulate reactive oxygen species (ROS) homeostasis could uncover improved strategies for treating HCC. Herein, we identified protein kinase with-no-lysine kinase 1 (WNK1) as an antioxidative factor and therapeutic target in HCC. In human HCC, WNK1 expression was increased and correlated with poor patient prognosis. WNK1 knockdown significantly inhibited cell proliferation and xenograft tumor growth. Mechanistically, WNK1 competed with nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 (NRF2) for binding with the partial Kelch domain of Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1), reducing NRF2 ubiquitination and promoting NRF2 accumulation and nuclear translocation to increase antioxidant response. WNK1 silencing increased H2O2-induced apoptosis and inhibited cell growth by elevating ROS levels, which could be rescued by treatment with the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine and NRF2 activator tert-butylhydroquinone. Liver-specific WNK1 knockout mouse models of HCC substantiated that WNK1 promoted HCC development by regulating ROS levels. WNK463, an inhibitor of the WNK kinase family, suppressed HCC progression and altered the redox status. These findings suggest that WNK1 plays a critical role in HCC development and progression and that the WNK1-oxidative stress axis may be a promising therapeutic target for HCC.

Significance: Inhibiting WNK1 induces NRF2 degradation and reduces the oxidative stress response to suppress hepatocellular carcinoma growth, indicating that targeting the WNK1–KEAP1–NRF2 axis is a potential strategy to treat liver cancer.
Transient Differentiation-State Plasticity Occurs during Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Initiation
Authors: Poort Vera M. , Hagelaar Rico , van Roosmalen Markus J. , Trabut Laurianne , Buijs-Gladdines Jessica G. C. A. M. , van Wijk Bram , Meijerink Jules , van Boxtel Ruben
Published: June 2024

Leukemia is characterized by oncogenic lesions that result in a block of differentiation, whereas phenotypic plasticity is retained. A better understanding of how these two phenomena arise during leukemogenesis in humans could help inform diagnosis and treatment strategies. Here, we leveraged the well-defined differentiation states during T-cell development to pinpoint the initiation of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL), an aggressive form of childhood leukemia, and study the emergence of phenotypic plasticity. Single-cell whole genome sequencing of leukemic blasts was combined with multiparameter flow cytometry to couple cell identity and clonal lineages. Irrespective of genetic events, leukemia-initiating cells altered their phenotypes by differentiation and dedifferentiation. The construction of the phylogenies of individual leukemias using somatic mutations revealed that phenotypic diversity is reflected by the clonal structure of cancer. The analysis also indicated that the acquired phenotypes are heritable and stable. Together, these results demonstrate a transient period of plasticity during leukemia initiation, where phenotypic switches seem unidirectional.

Significance: A method merging multicolor flow cytometry with single-cell whole genome sequencing to couple cell identity with clonal lineages uncovers differentiation-state plasticity in leukemia, reconciling blocked differentiation with phenotypic plasticity in cancer.
Prevalence of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor and Programmed Death Ligand 1 Testing in a Population-Based Lung Cancer Surgical Resection Cohort from 2018 to 2022
Authors: Smeltzer Matthew P. , Akinbobola Olawale A. , Ray Meredith A. , Fehnel Carrie , Saulsberry Andrea , Dortch Kourtney R. , Pimenta Kelly , Matthews Anberitha T. , Osarogiagbon Raymond U.
Published: June 2024

Background:

Biomarker-directed therapy requires biomarker testing. We assessed the patterns of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and programmed death ligand 1 (PDL1) testing in a non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) resection cohort. We hypothesized that testing would increase but be unevenly distributed across patient-, provider- and institution-level demographics.

Methods:

We examined the population-based Mid-South Quality of Surgical Resection (MS-QSR) cohort of NSCLC resections. We evaluated the proportions receiving EGFR and PDL1 testing before and after approval of biomarker-directed adjuvant therapy (2018–2020 vs. 2021–2022). We used association tests and logistic regression to compare factors.

Results:

From 2018 to 2022, 1,687 patients had NSCLC resection across 12 MS-QSR institutions: 1,045 (62%) from 2018 to 2020 and 642 (38%) from 2021 to 2022. From 2018 to 2020, 11% had EGFR testing versus 38% in 2021 to 2022 (56% in those meeting ADAURA trial inclusion criteria, P < 0.0001). From 2018 to 2020, 8% had PDL1 testing versus 20% in 2021 to 2022 (P < 0.0001). EGFR testing did not significantly differ by age (P = 0.07), sex (P = 0.99), race (P = 0.33), or smoking history (P = 0.28); PDL1 testing did not differ significantly by age (P = 0.47), sex (P = 0.41), race (P = 0.51), or health insurance (P = 0.07). Testing was significantly less likely in nonteaching and non–Commission on Cancer–accredited hospitals and after resection by cardiothoracic or general surgeons (vs. general thoracic surgeons; all P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

EGFR and PDL1 testing increased after approval of biomarker-directed adjuvant therapies. However, testing rates were still suboptimal and differed by institutional- and provider-level factors.

Impact:

The association of institutional, pathologist, and surgeon characteristics with differences in testing demonstrate the need for more standardization in testing processes.
Supplementary Table 1 from Role of Gut Microbiome in Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy Response in Urothelial Carcinoma: A Multi-institutional Prospective Cohort Evaluation
Authors: Bukavina Laura , Ginwala Rashida , Eltoukhi Mohamed , Sindhani Mohit , Prunty Megan , Geynisman Daniel M. , Ghatalia Pooja , Valentine Henkel , Calaway Adam , Correa Andres F. , Brown Jason R. , Mishra Kirtishri , Plimack Elizabeth R. , Kutikov Alexander , Ghannoum Mahmoud , Elshaer Mohammed , Retuerto Mauricio , Ponsky Lee , Uzzo Robert G. , Abbosh Philip H.
Published: June 2024

Patient Characteristics
Supplementary Figure 4 from Role of Gut Microbiome in Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy Response in Urothelial Carcinoma: A Multi-institutional Prospective Cohort Evaluation
Authors: Bukavina Laura , Ginwala Rashida , Eltoukhi Mohamed , Sindhani Mohit , Prunty Megan , Geynisman Daniel M. , Ghatalia Pooja , Valentine Henkel , Calaway Adam , Correa Andres F. , Brown Jason R. , Mishra Kirtishri , Plimack Elizabeth R. , Kutikov Alexander , Ghannoum Mahmoud , Elshaer Mohammed , Retuerto Mauricio , Ponsky Lee , Uzzo Robert G. , Abbosh Philip H.
Published: June 2024

Supplementary Figure 4: Sex-Specific Microbiome Diversity in Bladder Cancer and Control Groups

A: Stacked bar plot showing the phylogenetic composition of bacterial taxa at the genus level in male and female cohorts of bladder cancer patients and controls.

B: Analysis of differentially abundant bacteria across taxonomic levels up to genus, with FDR adjustment.

C and D: Alpha and beta diversity metrics demonstrating microbial community segregation by sex and disease status through Weighted UniFrac PCoA.

E: Cladogram highlighting significant microbial differences across taxonomic levels with dot color coding by group.
Characterization of Non-Monotonic Relationships between Tumor Mutational Burden and Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Anaya Jordan , Kung Julia , Baras Alexander S.
Published: June 2024

Potential clinical biomarkers are often assessed with Cox regressions or their ability to differentiate two groups of patients based on a single cutoff. However, both of these approaches assume a monotonic relationship between the potential biomarker and survival. Tumor mutational burden (TMB) is currently being studied as a predictive biomarker for immunotherapy, and a single cutoff is often used to divide patients. In this study, we introduce a two-cutoff approach that allows splitting of patients when a non-monotonic relationship is present and explore the use of neural networks to model more complex relationships of TMB to outcome data. Using real-world data, we find that while in most cases the true relationship between TMB and survival appears monotonic, that is not always the case and researchers should be made aware of this possibility.

Significance:

When a non-monotonic relationship to survival is present it is not possible to divide patients by a single value of a predictor. Neural networks allow for complex transformations and can be used to correctly split patients when a non-monotonic relationship is present.
Development and Validation of an E-Learning Educational Program for Acquiring Basic Knowledge in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Nursing
Authors: Mizuno Hikaru , Fujimoto Yu , Furukawa Yoshiko , Katashima Mayu , Yamamoto Koji , Sakagami Kayoko , Nunotani Maya , Seto Natsuko
Published: June 2024

Introduction: This study focuses on developing and validating an e-learning educational program for nurturing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) nursing specialists. Methods: The program was developed using the attention, relevance, confidence, and satisfaction models within the instructional design framework. The program validation encompassed four steps: (1) nurses took a basic IBD knowledge test (pretest), (2) participants scoring <80% were encouraged to undergo web-based training, (3) a follow-up test (posttest) gauged post-training improvement, and (4) participant satisfaction with e-learning was assessed. Results: The analysis included 63 participants. The average score in the pretest was 81.3%, 40 participants exceeded the pretest passing score, which is 80% (average: 88.3%), and 23 participants failed (average: 69.1%). Of those who failed, 19 participants showed improvement after undergoing web-based training, with their posttest scores exceeding the passing threshold (average: 97.4%). The comparison results between the passing and failing groups revealed no correlation between the baseline characteristics of the participants. The participants were highly satisfied with the e-learning program. Conclusion: The program was effective as an educational program for acquiring basic knowledge to foster IBD nursing professionals. The learning design was adapted to the participants’ lifestyles and tailored to the readiness of the nurse, ensuring a satisfactory e-learning user experience for the nurses.
Mitochondrial DNA Depletion Syndromes Gene Panel versus Clinical Exome Sequencing in Children with Suspected Mitochondrial Hepatopathies
Authors: Doğulu Neslihan , Köse Engin , Ceylaner Serdar , Kasapkara Çiğdem Seher , Bozaci Ayşe Ergul , Oncul Ummuhan , Eminoğlu Fatma Tuba
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Mitochondrial DNA depletion syndromes (MDDSs) are a group of clinically and genetically heterogeneous disorders. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the frequency of MDDS in children under the age of 5 years with suspected mitochondrial hepatopathy and to evaluate this group of patients using MDDS gene panel and clinical exome sequencing (CES) genetic analysis methods. Methods: Patients under 5 years of age who were clinically suspected to have mitochondrial hepatopathy and had neonatal acute liver failure, hepatic steatohepatitis, cholestasis, or cirrhosis with chronic liver failure of insidious onset were included. Results: Forty patients (20 female, 50%) were enrolled, with a median age of 102 [57–263.8] days. Icteric appearance was identified in 28 (70%) of the patients, hepatomegaly in 27 (67.5%), splenomegaly in 10 (25.0%), and hypotonicity in 10 (25.0%); moreover, elevated international normalized ratio was detected in 77.5%, cholestasis in 77.5%, and elevated lactate levels in 62.5%. Molecular genetic diagnosis was made in 9 patients (22.5%) with the MDDS gene panel and in 17 (42.5%) patients with the CES analysis. All patients diagnosed with MDDS had a history of parental consanguinity, while the rate in those without MDDS was 54.8% (p = 0.012). High lactate levels were identified in all those with MDDS, but in only 51.6% of those without MDDS (p = 0.020). Conclusion: Present study revealed that demographic findings and laboratory assessments are insufficient to diagnose genetically inherited diseases in children presenting with hepatic involvement. While one-fifth of the patients with suspected mitochondrial hepatopathies were diagnosed with MDDS, it is revealed that around half of patients can be diagnosed with CES panel.
A Rare Variant c.1024A>C in the ABO*A1.02 Allele Was Associated with an Ael Phenotype
Authors: Li Yan , Ding Mengyuan , Ma Zhaoze , Zhou Liling , Wang Chenlong
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Ael is known to be one of the weakest A subgroups and can be identified through either the adsorption-elution technique or molecular analysis. Single nucleotide variation in the ABO gene can potentially disrupt the function of ABO glycosyltransferase, resulting in decreased ABO antigen expression. Case Presentation: We reported 1 case of the missense SNV c.1024A>C in the ABO*A1.02 allele was associated with an Ael phenotype. The proband was a 19-year-old male Chinese Han blood donor who was initially stereotyped as type B. Based on the findings from absorption elution, genotype tests, and a family investigation, both the proband and his mother were classified as the AelB phenotype. An uncommon allele was detected in both the proband and his mother, differing by a single nucleotide at position 1,024 from A to C (c.1024A>C) when compared to the ABO*A1.02 allele. The c.1024A>C SNV induces an amino acid substitution, specifically p.Thr342Pro, which consequently leads to the loss of two sheets (p214–p216, p340–p344) in the wild-type A glycosyltransferase (GTA) 3D structure. The removal of these two sheets, situated at the protein’s core, implies the occurrence of an interaction within this domain that affects the stability of the protein structure. Conclusion: AelB is prone to misidentification as type B, and the accurate determination of blood type can be achieved through the integration of the adsorption-elution technique and molecular analysis.
Risk Factors for Post-Colorectal Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection Bleeding and Efficacy of Carbazochrome Sodium Sulfonate: A Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Takahashi Keitaro , Iwama Takuya , Tanaka Kazuyuki , Miyazawa Yuki , Kuroda Shohei , Horiuchi Masashi , Saito Seisuke , Muto Momotaro , Sakatani Aki , Ando Katsuyoshi , Ueno Nobuhiro , Kashima Shin , Moriichi Kentaro , Tanabe Hiroki , Okumura Toshikatsu , Fujiya Mikihiro
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Carbazochrome sodium sulfonate (CSS) is a hemostatic agent that reduces capillary permeability and enhances capillary resistance. However, its specific effects on colorectal endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) outcomes remain uncertain. This study aimed to assess the risk factors for post-ESD bleeding and the effect of CSS on colorectal ESD outcomes. Methods: First, we retrospectively analyzed the risk factors for post-ESD bleeding using data from 1,315 lesions in 1,223 patients who underwent ESD for superficial colorectal neoplasms at eight institutions. Second, patients were divided into CSS and non-CSS groups using propensity score matching, and their outcomes from colorectal ESD were analyzed. Results: The risk factors for post-colorectal ESD bleeding were identified as age of ≥70 years, tumor located in the rectum, tumor size of ≥40 mm, and post-ESD defect unclosure in both univariate and multivariate analyses. The CSS and non-CSS groups each consisted of 423 lesions after propensity score matching. The post-colorectal ESD bleeding rate was 3.5% (15/423) and 3.3% (14/423) in the CSS and non-CSS groups, respectively, indicating no significant differences. Among patients with the high-risk factors for post-ESD bleeding, the administration of CSS also did not demonstrate a significant reduction in the post-ESD bleeding rate compared to the non-CSS group. Conclusion: CSS administration is ineffective in preventing post-colorectal ESD bleeding in both the general population and individuals at a high risk for such bleeding. Our results indicate the necessity to reconsider the application of CSS for preventing post-colorectal ESD bleeding.
The Birth Prevalence of Congenital Hyperinsulinism: A Narrative Review of the Epidemiology of a Rare Disease
Authors: Lapidus David , De León Diva D. , Thornton Paul S. , Hood Davelyn , Breit Jeffrey , Raskin Julie , Pasquini Tai L.S.
Published: June 2024

Background: Congenital hyperinsulinism (HI) is a rare pediatric disease and the most common cause of severe, persistent hypoglycemia in childhood. It is characterized by the dysregulation of insulin secretion from the pancreas and can lead to irreversible brain damage with lifelong neurodisability. Summary: The global birth prevalence of HI is currently unknown. An evidence-based estimate of HI birth prevalence is essential to improve diagnosis and patient management, to drive clinical research and the development of new treatments, and to inform public policy. In order to estimate the birth prevalence of persistent HI, a targeted literature review of studies that report HI epidemiological data was undertaken, and the strengths and limitations of each study were analyzed. Overall, eight global studies were identified that reported independently determined HI epidemiological data. Key Messages: The best estimate for the birth prevalence of persistent HI in European-ancestry populations is 3.5 per 100,000 births. Local consanguinity patterns appear to have a considerable impact on the birth prevalence of persistent HI in each country, precluding the application of this figure to all global populations. More epidemiological studies with robust methodology are needed to enable a reliable approximation of the incidence and prevalence of HI in global populations.
Successful Isavuconazole Treatment for Pulmonary Mucormycosis in a Patient Intolerant to Liposomal Amphotericin B with Pharmacokinetic Insights: A Case Report
Authors: Yasu Takeo , Hoshino Makoto , Sakamoto Naoya , Kobayashi Masayuki
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Mucormycosis presents a diagnostic challenge characterized by high morbidity and mortality rates due to its swift and pervasive nature, which leads to extensive tissue destruction and dissemination. Immunocompromised individuals, notably those with hematological malignancies, are at a heightened risk. First-line antifungal agents include liposomal amphotericin B (L-AMB), posaconazole, and isavuconazole (IVZ), which offer advantages, such as minimal drug interactions and a favorable safety profile. However, the necessity and efficacy of therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of IVZ remain unclear. Case Presentation: We report a successful case of IVZ therapy in a patient who was intolerant of L-AMB, highlighting the efficacy and pharmacokinetics of IVZ in treating pulmonary mucormycosis. Pharmacokinetic analysis revealed steady plasma IVZ concentrations, emphasizing the importance of monitoring IVZ levels, particularly in patients undergoing renal replacement therapy. Conclusion: This case highlights the efficacy of IVZ therapy for mucormycosis and the potential utility of TDM in a specific patient population. Further research is needed to elucidate the optimal IVZ dosing and monitoring strategies to ensure safe and efficacious treatment.
The Prevalence of Mild Cognitive Impairment in China: Evidence from a Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review of 393,525 Adults
Authors: Wu Weiwei , Chen Guancheng , Ren Xiaohan , Zhao Yuanyuan , Yu Zhengmiao , Peng Haojun , Deng Chuxin , Song Wenxin
Published: June 2024

Objective: This study aims to precisely determine the prevalence of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in China, acknowledging its significance as a preclinical stage of dementia and a potential “intervention window.” The acceleration of the aging process in China underscores the urgency of this research. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, CNKI, WFD, VIP, and CBM databases from their inception until March 1, 2023. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) methodology checklist guided our quality assessment. A random-effects model meta-analysis was employed to synthesize the pooled prevalence data of MCI in China. Results: Our analysis encompassed 139 studies, incorporating data from 393,525 individuals aged 40 years and above. The studies were predominantly rated as moderate-to-high quality. The overall prevalence of MCI was determined to be 19.6% (95% CI: 17.7–21.6%). Subgroup analyses indicated variations in prevalence: 20.8% (95% CI: 18.9–22.7%) for P-MCI compared to 16.2% (95% CI: 11.7–20.7%) for DSM criteria. Geographically, prevalence in Southern China (21.0%, 95% CI: 18.1–23.9%) exceeded that in Northern China (17.6%, 95% CI: 15.9–19.4%). Notably, prevalence in hospitals (61.7%, 95% CI: 27.8–95.7%) was significantly higher than in nursing homes (16.1%, 95% CI: 14.3–17.9%) and communities (25.3%, 95% CI: 17.4–33.2%), especially after the COVID-19 outbreak. Conclusion: The study confirms a 19.6% prevalence rate of MCI in China, influenced by factors such as sample sources, beginning year of survey, and regional differences. It highlights the need for targeted screening and resource allocation to subpopulations at risk, aiming to prevent the progression to dementia.
Guia: brincadeiras e interações com a água na educação infantil
Authors: Luiz Elizandra Aparecida ,   Prefeitura Municipal de São Carlos, Daniel Luiz Antonio ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola de Engenharia de São Carlos
Published: June 2024

O Guia Brincadeiras e Interações com água na Educação Infantil tem como objetivo sugerir Práticas Educativas, nas Ciências Ambientais, respeitando os princípios éticos, políticos e estéticos previstos nas Diretrizes Curriculares Nacionais de Educação Infantil (2009) e na Base Nacional Comum Curricular (2018), com a experiência da água por meio de brincadeiras e interações, abordando o tema de maneira contextualizada e significativa, trazendo questões ainda pouco abordadas pelos professores de Educação Infantil, conforme dados levantados na pesquisa de origem. O material foi planejado para que os professores, a partir dele, propiciem às crianças a descoberta, a investigação e a ampliação do conhecimento sobre a água, seus estados, características e transformações. O mesmo traz informações sobre os conteúdos abordados e 5 experiências com a água que poderão ser feitas com as crianças com faixas etárias entre 4 e 5 anos, abarcando suas interfaces por meio de brincadeiras e interações. Este guia oferece experiências em busca de uma mudança efetiva, capaz de promover reflexão e sensibilização através de sua mediação com aprendizagens significativas, sobretudo em um momento em que a preservação do meio ambiente encontra-se em risco.
Dois não cubos: aproximações a Sans a partir de Le cube et le visage
Authors: Goldfeder André
Published: June 2024

O ensaio apresenta uma leitura de Sans (1969), informada pela epígrafe de Le cube et le visage. Autour d’une sculpture d’ Alberto Giacometti (1993), de Georges Didi-Huberman, extraída desse texto beckettiano tardio. Parte de uma análise das operações de sobredeterminação que estruturam diferentes níveis dessa singular peça de ficção, tendo em vista os problemas da figura, da figuração e da figurabilidade, buscando desdobrar aspectos de um debate entre os campos da literatura e das artes visuais.
Advanced Cardiac Patches for the Treatment of Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Liu Tailuo , Hao Ying , Zhang Zixuan , Zhou Hao , Peng Shiqin , Zhang Dingyi , Li Ka , Chen Yuwen , Chen Mao
Published: June 2024

Myocardial infarction is a cardiovascular disease characterized by a high incidence rate and mortality. It leads to various cardiac pathophysiological changes, including ischemia/reperfusion injury, inflammation, fibrosis, and ventricular remodeling, which ultimately result in heart failure and pose a significant threat to global health. Although clinical reperfusion therapies and conventional pharmacological interventions improve emergency survival rates and short-term prognoses, they are still limited in providing long-lasting improvements in cardiac function or reversing pathological progression. Recently, cardiac patches have gained considerable attention as a promising therapy for myocardial infarction. These patches consist of scaffolds or loaded therapeutic agents that provide mechanical reinforcement, synchronous electrical conduction, and localized delivery within the infarct zone to promote cardiac restoration. This review elucidates the pathophysiological progression from myocardial infarction to heart failure, highlighting therapeutic targets and various cardiac patches. The review considers the primary scaffold materials, including synthetic, natural, and conductive materials, and the prevalent fabrication techniques and optimal properties of the patch, as well as advanced delivery strategies. Last, the current limitations and prospects of cardiac patch research are considered, with the goal of shedding light on innovative products poised for clinical application.
A spatially constrained independent component analysis jointly informed by structural and functional network connectivity
Authors: Fouladivanda Mahshid , Iraji Armin , Wu Lei , van Erp Theo G. M. , Belger Aysenil , Hawamdeh Faris , Pearlson Godfrey D. , Calhoun Vince D.
Published: June 2024

There are a growing number of neuroimaging studies motivating joint structural and functional brain connectivity. The brain connectivity of different modalities provides an insight into brain functional organization by leveraging complementary information, especially for brain disorders such as schizophrenia. In this paper, we propose a multimodal independent component analysis (ICA) model that utilizes information from both structural and functional brain connectivity guided by spatial maps to estimate intrinsic connectivity networks (ICNs). Structural connectivity is estimated through whole-brain tractography on diffusion-weighted MRI (dMRI), while functional connectivity is derived from resting-state functional MRI (rs-fMRI). The proposed structural-functional connectivity and spatially constrained ICA (sfCICA) model estimates ICNs at the subject level using a multiobjective optimization framework. We evaluated our model using synthetic and real datasets (including dMRI and rs-fMRI from 149 schizophrenia patients and 162 controls). Multimodal ICNs revealed enhanced functional coupling between ICNs with higher structural connectivity, improved modularity, and network distinction, particularly in schizophrenia. Statistical analysis of group differences showed more significant differences in the proposed model compared with the unimodal model. In summary, the sfCICA model showed benefits from being jointly informed by structural and functional connectivity. These findings suggest advantages in simultaneously learning effectively and enhancing connectivity estimates using structural connectivity.
A new species of Psidium and notes on Neomitranthes from the state of São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: MARUYAMA ADRIANO DA SILVA DE CICCO , TULER AMÉLIA CARLOS , VALDEMARIN KARINNE S. , PROENÇA CAROLYN ELINORE BARNES , MAZINE FIORELLA FERNANDA
Published: June 2024

Psidium riobonito, a new species of Myrtaceae from the Atlantic Forest of the northeastern portion of the Brazilian state of São Paulo, was collected in High Montane Dense Ombrophilous Forest and is described here. Morphological characters assign the new species to Psidium sect. Apertiflora, due to its leaves with brochidodromous veins, marginal vein parallel to the margin, inflorescences in auxotelic racemes, flowers with open buds with 5 calyx lobes, in addition to dark purple fruits when ripe, with few seeds. Psidium riobonito is morphologically close to P. involutisepalum and P. myrtoides, but differs by the marginal veins 2 to 5 mm from the margin (vs. 1 to 2 mm in P. myrtoides and 1.5 to 2 mm in P. involutisepalum), glabrous or glabrescent leaves when mature (vs. pubescent or sparsely pubescent mainly along the midrib on the abaxial surface in P. myrtoides and sparsely pubescent in P. involutisepalum), pedicels 14–26 mm long (vs. 3–12 mm in P. myrtoides and 8–10 mm in P. involutisepalum). The relationship of P. riobonito to morphologically close species, comments on its taxonomy, ecology and informal conservation status, and a table with morphological characteristics of P. sect. Apertiflora are also provided. We also present for the first time the descriptions of the fruits of Neomitranthes capivariensis and N. pedicellata.
A new species of Polylepis (Rosaceae) from Santuario Nacional Pampa Hermosa, Peru
Authors: QUISPE-MELGAR HAROLD RUSBELTH , LLACUA-TINEO YASHIRA STEFANI , ULLOA ARIAS NATHALY ESTELA , KESSLER MICHAEL
Published: June 2024

A new species of Polylepis from central Peruvian province of Tarma and present in Santuario Nacional Pampa Hermosa, is described and illustrated. The new species is most similar to Polylepis canoi but differs by its 3-foliate leaves, smaller oblong-lanceolate auriculate and sessile leaflets, shorter petioles with glandular hairs of reddish yellow resin, shorter pendulous axillary inflorescences 8–14 cm long with 6–13 flowers, and higher number of stamens (17–24). On present knowledge, the species has a tiny distribution and is further threatened by land use practices, so that we classify it as critically endangered. This discovery reinforces our understanding of the central Peruvian Andes as a poorly known center of biodiversity and endemism.