bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FIGURE 6 from Identification of MUC1-C as a Target for Suppressing Progression of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas
Authors: Nakashoji Ayako , Haratake Naoki , Bhattacharya Atrayee , Mao Weipu , Xu Kangjie , Wang Keyi , Daimon Tatsuaki , Ozawa Hiroki , Shigeta Keisuke , Fushimi Atsushi , Yamashita Nami , Morimoto Yoshihiro , Shimokawa Mototsugu , Saito Shin , Egloff Ann Marie , Uppaluri Ravindra , Long Mark D. , Kufe Donald
Published: May 2024

MUC1-C regulates NOTCH3 expression and HNSCC cell self-renewal capacity. A, CAL27/tet-MUC1shRNA cells treated with vehicle or DOX for 7 days were analyzed for NOTCH3 mRNA levels. The results (mean ± SD of four determinations) are expressed as relative levels compared with that obtained for vehicle-treated cells (assigned a value of 1; left). Lysates were immunoblotted with antibodies against the indicated proteins (right). B, GSEA of RNA-seq data from CAL27/tet-MUC1shRNA cells treated with vehicle or DOX for 7 days using the REACTOME SIGNALING BY NOTCH3 gene signature. C, The indicated CAL27 cells treated with vehicle or DOX for 7 days were analyzed for tumorsphere formation. Shown are representative images of the tumorspheres (bar represents 100 µm). SFE is expressed as the mean ± SD of three independent replicates relative to that obtained for vehicle-treated cells (assigned a value of 1). D, Lysates from CAL27 cells treated with vehicle or 5 µmol/L GO-203 for 3 days were immunoblotted with antibodies against the indicated proteins. E, CAL27 cells were treated with vehicle or 5 µmol/L GO-203 while they were analyzed for colony formation. Shown are representative photomicrographs of stained colonies (left). The results (mean ± SD of three determinations) are expressed as relative colony formation compared with that for vehicle-treated cells (assigned a value of 1; right). F, CAL27 cells were treated with vehicle or 5 µmol/L GO-203 while they were analyzed for tumorsphere formation. Shown are representative images of the tumorspheres (bar represents 100 µm). SFE is expressed as the mean ± SD of three independent replicates relative to that obtained for untreated cells (assigned a value of 1). G and H, Six-week-old nude mice were injected subcutaneously in the flank with 1 × 107 CAL27 cells. Mice pair-matched into groups of 5 mice each when tumors reached 100–150 mm3 were treated with vehicle control or GO-203 for the indicated days. Tumor volumes are expressed as the mean ± SEM for 5 mice (G). Lysates from control and GO-203–treated tumors were immunoblotted with antibodies against the indicated proteins (H).
FIGURE 5 from Identification of MUC1-C as a Target for Suppressing Progression of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas
Authors: Nakashoji Ayako , Haratake Naoki , Bhattacharya Atrayee , Mao Weipu , Xu Kangjie , Wang Keyi , Daimon Tatsuaki , Ozawa Hiroki , Shigeta Keisuke , Fushimi Atsushi , Yamashita Nami , Morimoto Yoshihiro , Shimokawa Mototsugu , Saito Shin , Egloff Ann Marie , Uppaluri Ravindra , Long Mark D. , Kufe Donald
Published: May 2024

MUC1-C/STAT1 signaling regulates activation of the SOX2 gene. A, CAL27/tet-MUC1shRNA cells treated with vehicle or DOX for 7 days were analyzed for SOX2 gene transcription (left) and mRNA (right) levels. The results (mean ± SD of four determinations) are expressed as relative levels compared with that obtained for vehicle-treated cells (assigned a value of 1). B, CAL27/CshRNA and CAL27/STAT1shRNA cells were analyzed for SOX2 gene transcription (left) and mRNA (right) levels. The results (mean ± SD of four determinations) are expressed as relative levels compared with that obtained for vehicle-treated cells (assigned a value of 1). C, Schema of the SOX2 gene with highlighting localization of the PLS region that contains STAT1 binding motifs. D, Soluble chromatin from CAL27/tet-MUC1shRNA cells treated with vehicle or DOX for 7 days was precipitated with anti-MUC1-C and anti-STAT1. The DNA samples were amplified by qPCR with primers for the SOX2 PLS region. The results (mean ± SD of three determinations) are expressed as percentage of input DNA for each sample. E, Lysates from CAL27/tet-MUC1shRNA cells treated with vehicle or DOX for 7 days were immunoblotted with antibodies against the indicated proteins. F, Lysates from CAL27/CshRNA and CAL27/STAT1shRNA cells were immunoblotted with antibodies against the indicated proteins.
A psicanálise como terapêutica no autismo: revisitando a literatura
Authors: Brandão Juliana Zirpoli , Santana Bruno dos Santos
Published: May 2024

Cette recherche de revue de la littérature vise à relever les apports de la psychanalyse comme thérapie possible dans l'autisme et se justifie par l'augmentation significative des cas de TSA, la nécessité d'évaluer l'émergence d'autres formes de traitement en plus des psychotropes et l'importance et la compréhension de l'existence de l'autisme, obligeant à voir l'autiste dans sa subjectivité. Il s'agit d'une recherche bibliographique, exploratoire et qualitative réalisée à travers l'analyse de livres, d'articles scientifiques et de textes situés dans les bases de données en ligne de SciELO, Bibliothèque numérique des thèses et mémoires de l'USP, Pubmed et PePSIC. L'efficacité de la pratique psychanalytique dans le traitement de l'autisme a été démontrée, présentant son importance en tant que thérapie possible. Nous espérons que l'autisme sera considéré comme une façon d'être.
De l’intérêt d’une approche clinique d’orientation psychanalytique dans la formation des enseignants
Authors: Blanchard-Laville Claudine
Published: May 2024

En este artículo, la autora señala que, a pesar de una notable falta de atención por parte de los grandes medios de comunicación franceses al valor del psicoanálisis en la actualidad, éste no ha desaparecido y sigue constituyendo un campo de conocimiento y práctica particularmente activo y vibrante. A continuación, describe su propia práctica de acompañamiento clínico en grupo de profesores desde la perspectiva de una clínica del vínculo profesional, que ha contribuido a desarrollar en el seno de la red Cliopsy (Clínica de orientación psicoanalítica) en la disciplina de ciencias de la educación y la formación. Describe la especificidad de este enfoque de base psicoanalítica y demuestra que es capaz de proponer mecanismos de análisis de los fenómenos subyacentes a las prácticas pedagógicas que otros enfoques son incapaces de captar.
Tijolo no interior paulista: questões sobre o seu uso e a sua produção na primeira república
Authors: Spiller Naiara Cristine , Lima Julia  Tirintan de , Oliveira Eduardo Romero de
Published: May 2024

A indústria cerâmica foi uma das primeiras a se desenvolver no estado de São Paulo, no final do século XIX e início do século XX. Por conta da relevância da temática da introdução do tijolo em fins daquele período para a história da construção civil brasileira, o presente artigo responde a alguns questionamentos ainda pouco explorados pela bibliografia existente. A partir disso, fez-se um levantamento em fontes primárias de edificações ferroviárias e olarias, no interior de São Paulo entre 1860 e 1920, e comparou-se com os dados presentes nas fontes primárias com a bibliografia existente. Nessa confrontação, verifica-se que não há um consenso entre os autores sobre o assunto e que alguns questionamentos não encontram respostas na bibliografia sobre o tema, sendo necessário um estudo mais avançado em arquivos da época para verificação. Consultando as fontes primárias, o que se pode concluir é que o café e a ferrovia foram os responsáveis pela expansão das olarias e do uso do tijolo a partir de meados do século XIX, ao contrário do que afirmam trabalhos já existentes, que atribuem esse feito aos trabalhadores imigrantes.
2024 ACC/AHA/AACVPR/APMA/ABC/SCAI/SVM/SVN/SVS/SIR/VESS Guideline for the Management of Lower Extremity Peripheral Artery Disease: A Report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines
Authors: Gornik Heather L. , Aronow Herbert D. , Goodney Philip P. , Arya Shipra , Brewster Luke Packard , Byrd Lori , Chandra Venita , Drachman Douglas E. , Eaves Jennifer M. , Ehrman Jonathan K. , Evans John N. , Getchius Thomas S.D. , Gutiérrez J. Antonio , Hawkins Beau M. , Hess Connie N. , Ho Karen J. , Jones W. Schuyler , Kim Esther S.H. , Kinlay Scott , Kirksey Lee , Kohlman-Trigoboff Debra , Long Chandler A. , Pollak Amy West , Sabri Saher S. , Sadwin Lawrence B. , Secemsky Eric A. , Serhal Maya , Shishehbor Mehdi H. , Treat-Jacobson Diane , Wilkins Luke R.
Published: May 2024

AIM:

The “2024 ACC/AHA/AACVPR/APMA/ABC/SCAI/SVM/SVN/SVS/SIR/VESS Guideline for the Management of Lower Extremity Peripheral Artery Disease” provides recommendations to guide clinicians in the treatment of patients with lower extremity peripheral artery disease across its multiple clinical presentation subsets (ie, asymptomatic, chronic symptomatic, chronic limb-threatening ischemia, and acute limb ischemia).

METHODS:

A comprehensive literature search was conducted from October 2020 to June 2022, encompassing studies, reviews, and other evidence conducted on human subjects that was published in English from PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, CINHL Complete, and other selected databases relevant to this guideline. Additional relevant studies, published through May 2023 during the peer review process, were also considered by the writing committee and added to the evidence tables where appropriate.

STRUCTURE:

Recommendations from the “2016 AHA/ACC Guideline on the Management of Patients With Lower Extremity Peripheral Artery Disease” have been updated with new evidence to guide clinicians. In addition, new recommendations addressing comprehensive care for patients with peripheral artery disease have been developed.
Influence of Pathophysiologic Patterns of Coronary Artery Disease on Immediate Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Outcomes
Authors: Collet Carlos , Munhoz Daniel , Mizukami Takuya , Sonck Jeroen , Matsuo Hitoshi , Shinke Toshiro , Ando Hirohiko , Ko Brian , Biscaglia Simone , Rivero Fernando , Engstrøm Thomas , Arslani Ketina , Leone Antonio Maria , van Nunen Lokien X. , Fearon William F. , Christiansen Evald Høj , Fournier Stephane , Desta Liyew , Yong Andy , Adjedj Julien , Escaned Javier , Nakayama Masafumi , Eftekhari Ashkan , Zimmermann Frederik M. , Sakai Koshiro , Storozhenko Tatyana , da Costa Bruno R. , Campo Gianluca , West Nick E.J. , De Potter Tom , Heggermont Ward , Buytaert Dimitri , Bartunek Jozef , Berry Colin , Collison Damien , Johnson Thomas , Amano Tetsuya , Perera Divaka , Jeremias Allen , Ali Ziad , Pijls Nico H.J. , De Bruyne Bernard , Johnson Nils P.
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND:

Diffuse coronary artery disease affects the safety and efficacy of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Pathophysiologic coronary artery disease patterns can be quantified using fractional flow reserve (FFR) pullbacks incorporating the pullback pressure gradient (PPG) calculation. This study aimed to establish the capacity of PPG to predict optimal revascularization and procedural outcomes.

METHODS:

This prospective, investigator-initiated, single-arm, multicenter study enrolled patients with at least one epicardial lesion with an FFR ≤0.80 scheduled for PCI. Manual FFR pullbacks were used to calculate PPG. The primary outcome of optimal revascularization was defined as an FFR ≥0.88 after PCI.

RESULTS:

A total of 993 patients with 1044 vessels were included. The mean FFR was 0.68±0.12, PPG 0.62±0.17, and the post-PCI FFR was 0.87±0.07. PPG was significantly correlated with the change in FFR after PCI (r=0.65 [95% CI, 0.61–0.69];
P
<0.001) and demonstrated excellent predictive capacity for optimal revascularization (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.82 [95% CI, 0.79–0.84];
P
<0.001). FFR alone did not predict revascularization outcomes (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.54 [95% CI, 0.50–0.57]). PPG influenced treatment decisions in 14% of patients, redirecting them from PCI to alternative treatment modalities. Periprocedural myocardial infarction occurred more frequently in patients with low PPG (<0.62) compared with those with focal disease (odds ratio, 1.71 [95% CI, 1.00–2.97]).

CONCLUSIONS:

Pathophysiologic coronary artery disease patterns distinctly affect the safety and effectiveness of PCI. PPG showed an excellent predictive capacity for optimal revascularization and demonstrated added value compared with an FFR measurement.

REGISTRATION:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT04789317.
Bleeding Risk in Patients Receiving Omega‐3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: Javaid Mustafa , Kadhim Kadhim , Bawamia Bilal , Cartlidge Timothy , Farag Mohamed , Alkhalil Mohammad
Published: May 2024

Background

There is a potential concern about increased bleeding risk in patients receiving omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). The aims of this study‐level meta‐analysis were to determine the risk of bleeding and to assess whether this relationship is linked to the received dose of omega‐3 PUFAs or the background use of antiplatelet treatment.

Methods and Results

Electronic databases were searched through May 2023 to identify randomized clinical trials of patients receiving omega‐3 PUFAs. Overall bleeding events, including fatal and central nervous system events, were identified and compared with those of a control group. A total of 120 643 patients from 11 randomized clinical trials were included. There was no difference in the pooled meta‐analytic events of bleeding among patients receiving omega‐3 PUFAs and those in the control group (rate ratio [RR], 1.09 [95% CI, 0.91–1.31];
P
=0.34). Likewise, the incidence of hemorrhagic stroke, intracranial bleeding, and gastrointestinal bleeding were similar. A prespecified analysis was performed in patients receiving high‐dose purified eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), which demonstrated a 50% increase in the relative risk of bleeding but only a modest increase in the absolute risk of bleeding (0.6%) when compared with placebo. Bleeding risk was associated with the dose of EPA (risk difference, 0.24 [95% CI, 0.05–0.43];
P
=0.02) but not the background use of antiplatelet therapy (risk difference, −0.01 [95% CI, −0.02 to 0];
P
=0.056).

Conclusions

Omega‐3 PUFAs were not associated with increased bleeding risk. Patients receiving high‐dose purified EPA may incur additional bleeding risk, although its clinical significance is very modest.
Post-milking application of a Lacticaseibacillus paracasei strain impacts bovine teat microbiota while preserving the mammary gland physiology and immunity
Authors: Goetz C. , Rault L. , Cuffel J. , Poton P. , Finot L. , Boullet G. , Boutinaud M. , Even S.
Published: May 2024

Bovine mastitis (BM) is a major disease in dairy industry. The current approaches – mainly antibiotic treatments – are not entirely effective and may contribute to antimicrobial resistance dissemination, rising the need for alternative treatment. The present study aims to evaluate the impact of post-milking application of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei CIRM BIA 1542 (Lp1542) on the teat skin (TS) of 20 Holstein cows in mid lactation, in order to reinforce the barrier effect of the microbiota naturally present on the teat. Treatment (Lp1542, iodine or no treatment) was applied post-milking twice a day on the 4 teats of healthy animals for 15 days. Blood and milk samples, and TS swabs were collected at day (D)1, D8, D15 and D26 before morning milking and at D15 before evening milking (D15E) to evaluate Lp1542 impact at the microbial, immune and physiological levels. Lp1542 treatment resulted in a higher lactic acid bacteria and total microbial populations on TS and in foremilk (FM) at D15(E) compared with iodine treatment. Metabarcoding analysis revealed changes in the composition of TS and FM microbiota, beyond a higher Lacticaseibacillus abundance. This included a higher abundance of Actinobacteriota, including Bifidobacterium, and a lower abundance of Pseudomonadota on TS of Lp1542 compared with iodine-treated quarters. In addition, Lp1542 treatment did not trigger any major inflammatory response in the mammary gland, except interleukin 8 production and expression which tended to be slightly higher in Lp1542-treated cows compared with the others. Finally, Lp1542 treatment had no impact on the mammary epithelium functionality (milk yield and composition) and integrity (epithelial cell exfoliation into milk and milk Na+/K+ ratio). Altogether, these results indicate that a topical treatment with Lp1542 is safe with regard to mammary gland physiology and immune system, while impacting its microbiota, inviting us to further explore its effectiveness for mastitis prevention.
New taxonomic treatments in the Pteris fauriei group (Pteridaceae)
Authors: YANG DONGMEI , WANG JIAMEI , GUO RUI , ZHU HONGJUAN , MA CHANGWANG , YU JING , LIU YA , WU YOUGEN , SHANG HUI
Published: May 2024

The dividing lines between species in the Pteris fauriei group (Pteridaceae) are questionable and the systematic positions of some species in this group remain unclear. To help comprehensively understand the phylogenetic relationships and resolve the taxonomic problems in this group a phylogenetic tree was reconstructed based on five chloroplast DNA regions (atpA, matK, rbcL, rps4-trnS & trnL-trnF) from 22 Pteris taxa. Additionally, their spore morphology and type materials were studied. Based on the molecular and morphology evidence, we made treatments as follow: P. oshimensis Hieron. var. paraemeiensis Ching ex Ching et S.H. Wu was raised as a species from a variety of P. oshimensis Hieron; P. fauriei Hieron. var. chinensis Ching et S.H. Wu was treated as a synonym of P. austrotaiwanensis Y.S. Chao, rather than a synonym of P. latipinna Y.S. Chao & W.L. Chiou; and P. omeiensis Ching was restored to species status from a synonym of P. oshimensis Hieron.
On the typification of Cocculus platiphyllus and synonymization of Cocculus platiphyllus var. ildefonsianus with Curarea crassa (Menispermaceae)
Authors: FELIZ PABLO FERNANDO , FERNANDES THIAGO , BRAGA JOÃO MARCELO ALVARENGA
Published: May 2024

We designate here a lectotype and an epitype for Cocculus platiphyllus, and discuss about the identity of Cocculus platiphyllus var. ildefonsianus, including its lectotypification and synonymization with Curarea crassa.
Exascale Computing and Data Handling: Challenges and Opportunities for Weather and Climate Prediction
Authors: Govett Mark , Bah Bubacar , Bauer Peter , Berod Dominique , Bouchet Veronique , Corti Susanna , Davis Chris , Duan Yihong , Graham Tim , Honda Yuki , Hines Adrian , Jean Michel , Ishida Junishi , Lawrence Bryan , Li Jian , Luterbacher Juerg , Muroi Chiasi , Rowe Kris , Schultz Martin , Visbeck Martin , Williams Keith
Published: May 2024

The emergence of exascale computing and artificial intelligence offer tremendous potential to significantly advance Earth system prediction capabilities. However, enormous challenges must be overcome to adapt models and prediction systems to use these new technologies effectively. A 2022 WMO report on exascale computing recommends “urgency in dedicating efforts and attention to disruptions associated with evolving computing technologies that will be increasingly difficult to overcome, threatening continued advancements in weather and climate prediction capabilities.” Further, the explosive growth in data from observations, model and ensemble output, and postprocessing threatens to overwhelm the ability to deliver timely, accurate, and precise information needed for decision-making. Artificial intelligence (AI) offers untapped opportunities to alter how models are developed, observations are processed, and predictions are analyzed and extracted for decision-making. Given the extraordinarily high cost of computing, growing complexity of prediction systems, and increasingly unmanageable amount of data being produced and consumed, these challenges are rapidly becoming too large for any single institution or country to handle. This paper describes key technical and budgetary challenges, identifies gaps and ways to address them, and makes a number of recommendations.
Recommendations for the Clinician Role in Reducing Gun Violence
Authors: Ballas Samantha J , Mufti Alina , Adames Ramos Kenneth , Cabral-Hernandez Abdiel , Rudolph-Math Timothy , Thenor-Louis Isabelle , Wentlent Zachariah , Izadyar Shahram , Wallenstein Kim , Hagen Kathryn , Guzman-Curtis Roseanna , Northhardt Trina , Brenner Jay
Published: May 2024

There is a growing need for clear and definitive guidelines to prevent firearm violence in communities across the United States. Recommendations explore the utility and feasibility of universal screenings and recommend utilizing universal screening due to a lack of a clear risk to it. Providers should also work to create risk reduction plans with patients as well. Furthermore, recommendations for mental health care, counseling, and bystander training are made for institutions and their providers.
Challenges and Coping Strategies in Transitioning From Caregiving to Widowhood: A Systematic Review
Authors: Baumbach Abby , Hughes M. Courtney , Liu Yujun
Published: May 2024

Ninety-one percent of surviving spouses in the U.S. cared for their spouses before they died. This review explores the challenges of the transition from caregiving to widowhood and different coping strategies used by widowed spousal caregivers. A systematic review of literature on the transition from caregiving to widowhood was conducted using four major academic search engines. Overall, 280 articles were identified, with 22 meeting the inclusion criteria. Challenges for widowed caregivers included experiencing care burden, letting go of the caregiver role, grief, and triggers. Widowed caregivers’ coping strategies included social support and services use, filling the time gap, finding spirituality, and engaging in unhealthy behaviors. Future research is needed to determine the efficacy of widowed caregivers’ coping strategies. Concerted and collaborative action by health professionals, community organizations, and policymakers is needed to develop programs and other approaches to support widowed caregivers.
The attempt to create a post-World War II international information order
Authors: Rayward W Boyd
Published: May 2024

This article focuses on the UNESCO-sponsored 1971 Intergovernmental Conference for the Establishment of a World Science Information System (UNISIST) and the 1974 Intergovernmental Conference on the Planning of National Documentation, Library and Archive Infrastructures (NATIS) and the events, often themselves international and intergovernmental conferences, leading to them in association with IFLA (especially its Universal Bibliographic Control program), the International Federation for Documentation and International Council of Scientific Unions, and its Abstracting Board. It notes the disappearance of these programs and their approach to a coherent, cooperative global information system. It argues that this was a result of geopolitical developments, organizational changes within UNESCO and its related organizations, and the rapid evolution of huge competitive commercial enterprises. These have been responsible for both developing and exploiting the transformative digital technologies that are now associated with owning increasingly complex information systems and services, and selling access to them in what has become a global, borderless marketplace for information as a commodity.
Incivility in Comparison: How Context, Content, and Personal Characteristics Predict Exposure to Uncivil Content
Authors: Schmidt Felix , Stier Sebastian , Otto Lukas
Published: May 2024

Incivility, that is, the breaking of social norms of conversation, is evidently prevalent in online political communication. While a growing literature provides evidence on the prevalence of incivility in different online venues, it is still unclear where and to what extent Internet users are exposed to incivility. This paper takes a comparative approach to assess the levels of incivility across contexts, content and personal characteristics. The pre-registered analysis uses detailed web browsing histories, including public Facebook posts and tweets seen by study participants, in combination with surveys collected during the German federal election 2021 ( N = 739). The level of incivility is predicted using Google’s Perspective API and compared across contexts (platforms and campaign periods), content features, and individual-level variables. The findings show that incivility is particularly strong on Twitter and more prevalent in comments than original posts/tweets on Facebook and Twitter. Content featuring political content and actors is more uncivil, whereas personal characteristics are less relevant predictors. The finding that user-generated political content is the most likely source of individuals’ exposure to incivility adds to the understanding of social media’s impact on public discourse.
Preregistered Replication and Extension of “Moral Hypocrisy: Social Groups and the Flexibility of Virtue”
Authors: Robertson Claire E. , Akles Madison , Van Bavel Jay J.
Published: May 2024

The tendency for people to consider themselves morally good while behaving selfishly is known as moral hypocrisy. Influential work by Valdesolo and DeSteno (2007) found evidence for intergroup moral hypocrisy such that people were more forgiving of transgressions when they were committed by an in-group member than an out-group member. We conducted two experiments to examine moral hypocrisy and group membership in an online paradigm with Prolific workers from the United States: a direct replication of the original work with minimal groups ( N = 610; nationally representative) and a conceptual replication with political groups ( N = 606; 50% Democrats and 50% Republicans). Although the results did not replicate the original findings, we observed evidence of in-group favoritism in minimal groups and out-group derogation in political groups. The current research finds mixed evidence of intergroup moral hypocrisy and has implications for understanding the contextual dependencies of intergroup bias and partisanship.
Post curing optimization for tensile strength of hybrid ramie-carbon fiber reinforced polymer
Authors: Dabholkar Tanvesh , M. Harikumar
Published: May 2024

The optimization of post-curing processes is crucial for enhancing the performance of epoxy-based fiber-reinforced polymers (FRP) by ensuring adequate cross-linking. This study focuses on optimizing the post-curing parameters for hybrid Ramie and Carbon fiber composites with the primary objective of improving tensile strength. Variations in post-curing temperature, post-curing time, and the number of synthetic fiber layers were systematically investigated across three levels using Taguchi design of experiments. The ultimate tensile stress was employed as the response parameter. Results indicate that post-curing temperature exerts a greater influence on tensile strength compared to post-curing time. A failure pattern of natural fiber followed by synthetic fibers was seen to happen progressively. A precise multivariable regression model was developed to predict the response for different combinations of post-curing parameters. Furthermore, employing particle swarm optimization revealed an optimal post-curing time of 12 h and an optimal temperature of 60°C. These findings contribute to the optimization of post-curing processes in hybrid fiber composites, thereby enhancing their mechanical properties.
Effectiveness and safety of telitacicept for refractory generalized myasthenia gravis: a retrospective study
Authors: Lin Jing , Li Yue , Gui Mengcui , Bu Bitao , Li Zhijun
Published: May 2024

Background:

Refractory generalized myasthenia gravis (GMG) remains a substantial therapeutic challenge. Telitacicept, a recombinant human B-lymphocyte stimulator receptor-antibody fusion protein, holds promise for interrupting the immunopathology of this condition.

Objectives:

This study retrospectively assessed the effectiveness and safety of telitacicept in patients with refractory GMG.

Design:

A single-center retrospective study.

Methods:

Patients with refractory GMG receiving telitacicept (160 mg/week or biweekly) from January to September in 2023 were included. We assessed effectiveness using Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America post-intervention status (MGFA-PIS), myasthenia gravis treatment status and intensity (MGSTI), quantitative myasthenia gravis (QMG), and MG-activity of daily living (ADL) scores, alongside reductions in prednisone dosage at 3- and 6-month intervals. Safety profiles were also evaluated.

Results:

Sixteen patients with MGFA class II–V refractory GMG were included, with eight females and eight males. All patients were followed up for at least 3 months, and 11 patients reached 6 months follow-up. At the 3-month evaluation, 75% (12/16) demonstrated clinical improvement with MGFA-PIS. One patient achieved pharmacological remission, two attained minimal manifestation status, and nine showed functional improvement; three remained unchanged, and one deteriorated. By the 6-month visit, 90.1% (10/11) sustained significant symptomatic improvement. MGSTI scores and prednisone dosages significantly reduced at both follow-ups ( p < 0.05). MG-ADL and QMG scores showed marked improvement at 6 months ( p < 0.05). The treatment was well tolerated, with no severe adverse events such as allergy or infection reported.

Conclusion:

Our exploratory investigation suggests that telitacicept is a feasible and well-tolerated add-on therapy for refractory GMG, offering valuable clinical evidence for this novel treatment option.
Migraine or any headaches and white matter hyperintensities and their progression in women and men
Authors: Schramm Sara Helena , Tenhagen I. , Jokisch M. , Gronewold J. , Moebus S. , Caspers S. , Katsarava Z. , Erbel R. , Stang A. , Schmidt B.
Published: May 2024

Background

Cross-sectional and longitudinal studies have been conducted to investigate the association between migraine and any headache and white matter hyperintensities (WMH). However, studies are inconsistent regarding the strength of the association and its clinical significance. The aim of our study was to investigate the association between headache and its subtypes (migraine with aura (MigA+), migraine without aura (MigA-), non-migraine headache (nonMigHA)) and WMH and its course in the population-based 1000BRAINS study using state-of-the-art imaging techniques and migraine classification according to modified international classification of headache disorders.

Methods

Data from 1062 participants (45% women, 60.9 ± 13.0 years) with ever or never headache (neverHA) and complete quantitative (WMH volume) and qualitative (Fazekas classification) WMH data at first imaging and after 3.7 ± 0.7 years (393 participants) were analyzed. The sex-specific association between headache and its subtypes and WMH volume and its change was evaluated by linear regression, between headache and its subtypes and Fazekas score high vs. low (2–3 vs. 0–1) by log-binomial regression, adjusted for confounders.

Results

The lifetime prevalence of headache was 77.5% (10.5% MigA+, 26.9% MigA-, 40.1% nonMigHA). The median WMH volume was 4005 (IQR: 2454–6880) mm3 in women and 4812 (2842–8445) mm3 in men. Women with any headaches (all headache types combined) had a 1.23 [1.04; 1.45]-fold higher WMH volume than women who reported never having had a headache. There was no indication of higher Fazekas grading or more WMH progression in women with migraine or any headaches. Men with migraine or any headaches did not have more WMH or WMH progression compared to men without migraine or men who never had headache.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated no increased occurrence or progression of WMH in participants with mgiraine. But, our results provide some evidence of greater WMH volume in women with headache of any type including migraine. The underlying pathomechanisms and the reasons why this was not shown in men are unclear and require further research.
Developing an SNP dataset for efficiently evaluating soybean germplasm resources using the genome sequencing data of 3,661 soybean accessions
Authors: Niu Yongchao , Yung Wai-Shing , Sze Ching-Ching , Wong Fuk-Ling , Li Man-Wah , Chung Gyuhwa , Lam Hon-Ming
Published: May 2024

Background

Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers play significant roles in accelerating breeding and basic crop research. Several soybean SNP panels have been developed. However, there is still a lack of SNP panels for differentiating between wild and cultivated populations, as well as for detecting polymorphisms within both wild and cultivated populations.

Results

This study utilized publicly available resequencing data from over 3,000 soybean accessions to identify differentiating and highly conserved SNP and insertion/deletion (InDel) markers between wild and cultivated soybean populations. Additionally, a naturally occurring mutant gene library was constructed by analyzing large-effect SNPs and InDels in the population.

Conclusion

The markers obtained in this study are associated with numerous genes governing agronomic traits, thus facilitating the evaluation of soybean germplasms and the efficient differentiation between wild and cultivated soybeans. The natural mutant gene library permits the quick identification of individuals with natural mutations in functional genes, providing convenience for accelerating soybean breeding using reverse genetics.
Natural variations of heterosis-related allele-specific expression genes in promoter regions lead to allele-specific expression in maize
Authors: Zhan Weimin , Cui Lianhua , Yang Shuling , Zhang Kangni , Zhang Yanpei , Yang Jianping
Published: May 2024

Background

Heterosis has successfully enhanced maize productivity and quality. Although significant progress has been made in delineating the genetic basis of heterosis, the molecular mechanisms underlying its genetic components remain less explored. Allele-specific expression (ASE), the imbalanced expression between two parental alleles in hybrids, is increasingly being recognized as a factor contributing to heterosis. ASE is a complex process regulated by both epigenetic and genetic variations in response to developmental and environmental conditions.

Results

In this study, we explored the differential characteristics of ASE by analyzing the transcriptome data of two maize hybrids and their parents under four light conditions. On the basis of allele expression patterns in different hybrids under various conditions, ASE genes were divided into three categories: bias-consistent genes involved in basal metabolic processes in a functionally complementary manner, bias-reversal genes adapting to the light environment, and bias-specific genes maintaining cell homeostasis. We observed that 758 ASE genes (ASEGs) were significantly overlapped with heterosis quantitative trait loci (QTLs), and high-frequency variations in the promoter regions of heterosis-related ASEGs were identified between parents. In addition, 10 heterosis-related ASEGs participating in yield heterosis were selected during domestication.

Conclusions

The comprehensive analysis of ASEGs offers a distinctive perspective on how light quality influences gene expression patterns and gene-environment interactions, with implications for the identification of heterosis-related ASEGs to enhance maize yield.
Recurrent neural network for predicting absence of heterozygosity from low pass WGS with ultra-low depth
Authors: Tang Fei , Wang Zhonghua , Sun Yan , Fan Linlin , Yang Yun , Guo Xueqin , Wang Yaoshen , Yan Saiying , Qiao Zhihong , Li Yun , Jiang Ting , Wang Xiaoli , Man Jianfen , Wang Lina , Wang Shunyao , Peng Huanhuan , Peng Zhiyu , Xie Xiaoyuan , Song Lijie
Published: May 2024

Background

The absence of heterozygosity (AOH) is a kind of genomic change characterized by a long contiguous region of homozygous alleles in a chromosome, which may cause human genetic disorders. However, no method of low-pass whole genome sequencing (LP-WGS) has been reported for the detection of AOH in a low-pass setting of less than onefold. We developed a method, termed CNVseq-AOH, for predicting the absence of heterozygosity using LP-WGS with ultra-low sequencing data, which overcomes the sparse nature of typical LP-WGS data by combing population-based haplotype information, adjustable sliding windows, and recurrent neural network (RNN). We tested the feasibility of CNVseq-AOH for the detection of AOH in 409 cases (11 AOH regions for model training and 863 AOH regions for validation) from the 1000 Genomes Project (1KGP). AOH detection using CNVseq-AOH was also performed on 6 clinical cases with previously ascertained AOHs by whole exome sequencing (WES).

Results

Using SNP-based microarray results as reference (AOHs detected by CNVseq-AOH with at least a 50% overlap with the AOHs detected by chromosomal microarray analysis), 409 samples (863 AOH regions) in the 1KGP were used for concordant analysis. For 784 AOHs on autosomes and 79 AOHs on the X chromosome, CNVseq-AOH can predict AOHs with a concordant rate of 96.23% and 59.49% respectively based on the analysis of 0.1-fold LP-WGS data, which is far lower than the current standard in the field. Using 0.1-fold LP-WGS data, CNVseq-AOH revealed 5 additional AOHs (larger than 10 Mb in size) in the 409 samples. We further analyzed AOHs larger than 10 Mb, which is recommended for reporting the possibility of UPD. For the 291 AOH regions larger than 10 Mb, CNVseq-AOH can predict AOHs with a concordant rate of 99.66% with only 0.1-fold LP-WGS data. In the 6 clinical cases, CNVseq-AOH revealed all 15 known AOH regions.

Conclusions

Here we reported a method for analyzing LP-WGS data to accurately identify regions of AOH, which possesses great potential to improve genetic testing of AOH.
Evaluation of fortimicin antibiotic combinations against MDR Pseudomonas aeruginosa and resistome analysis of a whole genome sequenced pan-drug resistant isolate
Authors: Kamel Noha A. , Tohamy Sally T. , Alshahrani Mohammad Y. , Aboshanab Khaled M.
Published: May 2024

Background

Multidrug-resistant (MDR) P. aeruginosa is a rising public health concern, challenging the treatment of such a ubiquitous pathogen with monotherapeutic anti-pseudomonal agents. Worryingly, its genome plasticity contributes to the emergence of P. aeruginosa expressing different resistant phenotypes and is now responsible for notable epidemics within hospital settings. Considering this, we aimed to evaluate the synergistic combination of fortimicin with other traditional anti-pseudomonal agents and to analyze the resistome of pan-drug resistant (PDR) isolate.

Methods

Standard methods were used for analyzing the antimicrobial susceptibility tests. The checkerboard technique was used for the in vitro assessment of fortimicin antibiotic combinations against 51 MDR P. aeruginosa and whole genome sequencing was used to determine the resistome of PDR isolate.

Results

Out of 51 MDR P. aeruginosa, the highest synergistic effect was recorded for a combination of fortimicin with β-lactam group as meropenem, ceftazidime, and aztreonam at 71%, 59% and 43%, respectively. Of note, 56.8%, 39.2%, and 37.2% of the tested MDR isolates that had synergistic effects were also resistant to meropenem, ceftazidime, and aztreonam, respectively. The highest additive effects were recorded for combining fortimicin with amikacin (69%) and cefepime (44%) against MDR P. aeruginosa. Resistome analysis of the PDR isolate reflected its association with the antibiotic resistance phenotype. It ensured the presence of a wide variety of antibiotic-resistant genes (β-lactamases, aminoglycosides modifying enzymes, and efflux pump), rendering the isolate resistant to all clinically relevant anti-pseudomonal agents.

Conclusion

Fortimicin in combination with classical anti-pseudomonal agents had shown promising synergistic activity against MDR P. aeruginosa. Resistome profiling of PDR P. aeruginosa enhanced the rapid identification of antibiotic resistance genes that are likely linked to the appearance of this resistant phenotype and may pave the way to tackle antimicrobial resistance issues shortly.
Development of PCR-based markers for identification of wheat HMW glutenin Glu-1Bx and Glu-1By alleles
Authors: Lee Myoung Hui , Kim Kyeong-Min , Kang Chon-Sik , Yoon Mira , Jang Ki-Chang , Choi Changhyun
Published: May 2024

Background

In common wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), allelic variations in the high-molecular-weight glutenin subunits Glu-B1 locus have important effects on grain end-use quality. The Glu-B1 locus consists of two tightly linked genes encoding x- and y-type subunits that exhibit highly variable frequencies. However, studies on the discriminating markers of the alleles that have been reported are limited. Here, we developed 11 agarose gel-based PCR markers for detecting Glu-1Bx and Glu-1By alleles.

Results

By integrating the newly developed markers with previously published PCR markers, nine Glu-1Bx locus alleles (Glu-1Bx6, Glu-1Bx7, Glu-1Bx7*, Glu-1Bx7OE, Glu-1Bx13, Glu-1Bx14(−), Glu-1Bx14(+)/Bx20, and Glu-1Bx17) and seven Glu-1By locus alleles (Glu-1By8, Glu-1By8*, Glu-1By9, Glu-1By15/By20, Glu-1By16, and Glu-1By18) were distinguished in 25 wheat cultivars. Glu-1Bx6, Glu-1Bx13, Glu-1Bx14(+)/Bx20, Glu-1By16, and Glu-1By18 were distinguished using the newly developed PCR markers. Additionally, the Glu-1Bx13 and Glu-1Bx14(+)/Bx20 were distinguished by insertions and deletions in their promoter regions. The Glu-1Bx6, Glu-1Bx7, Glu-1By9, Glu-1Bx14(−), and Glu-1By15/By20 alleles were distinguished by using insertions and deletions in the gene-coding region. Glu-1By13, Glu-1By16, and Glu-1By18 were dominantly identified in the gene-coding region. We also developed a marker to distinguish between the two Glu-1Bx14 alleles. However, the Glu-1Bx14(+) + Glu-1By15 and Glu-1Bx20 + Glu-1By20 allele combinations could not be distinguished using PCR markers. The high-molecular-weight glutenin subunits of wheat varieties were analyzed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography and sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, and the findings were compared with the results of PCR analysis.

Conclusions

Seven Glu-1Bx and four Glu-1By allele detection markers were developed to detect nine Glu-1Bx and seven Glu-1By locus alleles, respectively. Integrating previously reported markers and 11 newly developed PCR markers improves allelic identification of the Glu-B1 locus and facilitates more effective analysis of Glu-B1 alleles molecular variations, which may improve the end-use quality of wheat.
Diabetes mellitus in older persons with neurocognitive disorder: overtreatment prevalence and associated structural brain MRI findings
Authors: Putallaz Pauline , Seematter-Bagnoud Laurence , Draganski Bogdan , Rouaud Olivier , Krief Hélène , Büla Christophe J.
Published: May 2024

Background

Tight diabetes control is often applied in older persons with neurocognitive disorder resulting in increased hypoglycemic episodes but little is known about the pattern of brain injury in these overtreated patients. This study aims to: (a) quantify the prevalence of diabetes overtreatment in cognitively impaired older adults in a clinical population followed in an academic memory clinic (b) identify risk factors contributing to overtreatment; and (c) explore the association between diabetes overtreatment and specific brain region volume changes.

Methods

Retrospective study of older patients with type 2 diabetes and cognitive impairment who were diagnosed in a memory clinic from 2013 to 2020. Patients were classified into vulnerable and dependent according to their health profile. Overtreatment was defined when glycated hemoglobin was under 7% for vulnerable and 7.6% for dependent patients. Characteristics associated to overtreatment were examined in multivariable analysis. Grey matter volume in defined brain regions was measured from MRI using voxel-based morphometry and compared in patients over- vs. adequately treated.

Results

Among 161 patients included (median age 76.8 years, range 60.8–93.3 years, 32.9% women), 29.8% were considered as adequately treated, 54.0% as overtreated, and 16.2% as undertreated. In multivariable analyses, no association was observed between diabetes overtreatment and age or the severity of cognitive impairment. Among patients with neuroimaging data (N = 71), associations between overtreatment and grey matter loss were observed in several brain regions. Specifically, significant reductions in grey matter were found in the caudate (adj β coeff: -0.217, 95%CI: [-0.416 to -0.018], p = .033), the precentral gyri (adj βcoeff:-0.277, 95%CI: [-0.482 to -0.073], p = .009), the superior frontal gyri (adj βcoeff: -0.244, 95%CI: [-0.458 to -0.030], p = .026), the calcarine cortex (adj βcoeff:-0.193, 95%CI: [-0.386 to -0.001], p = .049), the superior occipital gyri (adj βcoeff: -0.291, 95%CI: [-0.521 to -0.061], p = .014) and the inferior occipital gyri (adj βcoeff: -0.236, 95%CI: [-0.456 to – 0.015], p = .036).

Conclusion

A significant proportion of older patients with diabetes and neurocognitive disorder were subjected to excessively intensive treatment. The association identified with volume loss in several specific brain regions highlights the need to further investigate the potential cerebral damages associated with overtreatment and related hypoglycemia in larger sample.
Measurement of distances and locations of thoracic and lumbar vertebral bodies from CT scans in cases of spinal deformation
Authors: Grünwald Alexander T. D. , Roy Susmita , Lampe Renée
Published: May 2024

Background

Spinal deformations, except for acute injuries, are among the most frequent reasons for visiting an orthopaedic specialist and musculoskeletal treatment in adults and adolescents. Data on the morphology and anatomical structures of the spine are therefore of interest to orthopaedics, physicians, and medical scientists alike, in the broad field from diagnosis to therapy and in research.

Methods

Along the course of developing supplementary methods that do not require the use of ionizing radiation in the assessment of scoliosis, twenty CT scans from females and males with various severity of spinal deformations and body shape have been analysed with respect to the transverse distances between the vertebral body and the spinous process end tip and the skin, respectively, at thoracic and lumbar vertebral levels. Further, the locations of the vertebral bodies have been analysed in relation to the patient’s individual body shape and shown together with those from other patients by normalization to the area encompassed by the transverse body contour.

Results

While the transverse distance from the vertebral body to the skin varies between patients, the distances from the vertebral body to the spinous processes end tips tend to be rather similar across different patients of the same gender. Tables list the arithmetic mean distances for all thoracic and lumbar vertebral levels and for different regions upon grouping into mild, medium, and strong spinal deformation and according to the range of spinal deformation.

Conclusions

The distances, the clustering of the locations of the vertebral bodies as a function of the vertebral level, and the trends therein could in the future be used in context with biomechanical modeling of a patient’s individual spinal deformation in scoliosis assessment using 3D body scanner images during follow-up examinations.