bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of obesity on functional outcomes and patient satisfaction 8 weeks after total knee arthroplasty: results of the prospective FInGK study
Authors: Baum Gesa , Jacobs Hannes , Lazovic Djordje , Maus Uwe , Hoffmann Falk , Seeber Gesine H.
Published: November 2022

Objectives

To investigate obese versus non-obese subjects´ knee joint function, stiffness, pain, expectations, and outcome satisfaction before and two months after total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Methods

This study is a secondary analysis of data retrieved via a prospective single-centre cohort study investigating knee joint function and health care services utilization in patients undergoing TKA (FInGK Study). For the primary study, elective TKA patients were consecutively recruited between December 2019 and May 2021. Preoperative expectations, Western Ontario and McMasters Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), surgery outcome satisfaction, and sociodemographic variables were assessed via self-reported questionnaires. In the current study, obese (Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m²) versus non-obese (BMI < 30 kg/m²) subjects’ data were exploratively compared before and two months after TKA. Multivariable logistic regression assessed factors associated with TKA satisfaction two months postoperatively. Linear regression evaluated factors associated with higher WOMAC change two months postoperatively.

Results

A total of 241 subjects participated (response: 85.2%). Eighty-seven were non-obese (mean age: 70.7 years, 63.2% female) and 154 were obese (mean age: 67.1 years, 57.8% female). Obese subjects reported inferior pre- and postoperative pain and knee joint function compared to non-obese subjects. Yet, WOMAC scores of obese and non-obese subjects significantly improved from preoperative means of 52.6 and 46.8 to 32.3 and 24.4 after surgery, respectively. The only significant TKA satisfaction predictor was subjects’ smoking status. Non-obesity and worse preoperative WOMAC scores were predictive of higher WOMAC change scores after two months.

Conclusion

Both obese and non-obese subjects reported significant symptom improvements. However, as obese subjects’ short-term outcomes were still inferior, more research on TKA rehabilitation measures adapted to the needs of this growing patient group is warranted to maximize their benefits from TKA.
Operationalization of assent for research participation in pre-adolescent children: a scoping review
Authors: Cayouette Florence , O’Hearn Katie , Gertsman Shira , Menon Kusum
Published: November 2022

Background

Seeking assent from children for participation in medical research is an ethical imperative of numerous institutions globally. However, none of these organizations provide specific guidance on the criteria or process to be used when obtaining assent. The primary objective of this scoping review was to determine the descriptions of assent discussed in the literature and the reported criteria used for seeking assent for research participation in pre-adolescent children.

Methods

Medline and Embase databases were searched until November 2020 using the term “assent” in the title or abstract. Inclusion criteria were (1) studies enrolling children which specifically described operationalization of the assent process and (2) studies of the assent process which provided a description of assent. Data collected included participant information, patient criteria for seeking assent, guidelines referenced, description of assent reported, how assent was obtained and assent information presented, and reported assent rate. For qualitative articles focusing on the assent process, important themes were identified.

Results

A total of 116 articles were included of which 79 (68.9%) operationalized assent and 57 studies (%) described the assent process. The most commonly reported criterion used to determine the ability of a child to assent was age (35.4%, 28/79). The reported minimal age for obtaining pediatric assent varied considerably across and within jurisdictions (5–13 years; median 7.5 years, IQR 7.0, 9.75). Cognitive ability was reported as a criterion for obtaining assent in 5.1% (4/79) of studies. Assent rates were only reported in 17.7% (14/79) of citations and ranged from 32.0 to 100%. Analysis of the 57 studies describing the assent process identified several themes, including age thresholds, assessment of capacity, variable knowledge of pediatric assent and parental roles.

Conclusion

We found significant variation in criteria used for assessment of patient capacity, delivery of information used to obtain assent and documentation of the assent process. While we acknowledge that individual children, settings and jurisdictions may require different approaches to obtaining assent, there should be agreement on important principles to be followed with resulting common guidance on assessing capacity, delivering information and documentation of the assent process for publication.
Tailoring and optimizing fatty acid production by oleaginous yeasts through the systematic exploration of their physiological fitness
Authors: Duman-Özdamar Zeynep Efsun , Martins dos Santos Vitor A. P. , Hugenholtz Jeroen , Suarez-Diez Maria
Published: November 2022

Background

The use of palm oil for our current needs is unsustainable. Replacing palm oil with oils produced by microbes through the conversion of sustainable feedstocks is a promising alternative. However, there are major technical challenges that must be overcome to enable this transition. Foremost among these challenges is the stark increase in lipid accumulation and production of higher content of specific fatty acids. Therefore, there is a need for more in-depth knowledge and systematic exploration of the oil productivity of the oleaginous yeasts. In this study, we cultivated Cutaneotrichosporon oleaginosus and Yarrowia lipolytica at various C/N ratios and temperatures in a defined medium with glycerol as carbon source and urea as nitrogen source. We ascertained the synergistic effect between various C/N ratios of a defined medium at different temperatures with Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and explored the variation in fatty acid composition through Principal Component Analysis.

Results

By applying RSM, we determined a temperature of 30 °C and a C/N ratio of 175 g/g to enable maximal oil production by C. oleaginosus and a temperature of 21 °C and a C/N ratio of 140 g/g for Y. lipolytica. We increased production by 71% and 66% respectively for each yeast compared to the average lipid accumulation in all tested conditions. Modulating temperature enabled us to steer the fatty acid compositions. Accordingly, switching from higher temperature to lower cultivation temperature shifted the production of oils from more saturated to unsaturated by 14% in C. oleaginosus and 31% in Y. lipolytica. Higher cultivation temperatures resulted in production of even longer saturated fatty acids, 3% in C. oleaginosus and 1.5% in Y. lipolytica.

Conclusions

In this study, we provided the optimum C/N ratio and temperature for C. oleaginosus and Y. lipolytica by RSM. Additionally, we demonstrated that lipid accumulation of both oleaginous yeasts was significantly affected by the C/N ratio and temperature. Furthermore, we systematically analyzed the variation in fatty acids composition and proved that changing the C/N ratio and temperature steer the composition. We have further established these oleaginous yeasts as platforms for production of tailored fatty acids.
The impact of human and livestock respiration on CO2 emissions from 14 global cities
Authors: Cai Qixiang , Zeng Ning , Zhao Fang , Han Pengfei , Liu Di , Lin Xiaohui , Chen Jingwen
Published: November 2022

Background

The CO2 released by humans and livestock through digestion and decomposition is an important part of the urban carbon cycle, but is rarely considered in studies of city carbon budgets since its annual magnitude is usually much lower than that of fossil fuel emissions within the boundaries of cities. However, human and livestock respiration may be substantial compared to fossil fuel emissions in areas with high population density such as Manhattan or Beijing. High-resolution datasets of CO2 released from respiration also have rarely been reported on a global scale or in cities globally. Here, we estimate the CO2 released by human and livestock respiration at global and city scales and then compare it with the carbon emissions inventory from fossil fuels in 14 cities worldwide.

Results

The results show that the total magnitude of human and livestock respiration emissions is 38.2% of the fossil fuel emissions in Sao Paulo, highest amongst the 14 cities considered here. The proportion is larger than 10% in cities of Delhi, Cape Town and Tokyo. In other cities, it is relatively small with a proportion around 5%. In addition, almost 90% of respiratory carbon comes from urban areas in most of the cities, while up to one-third comes from suburban areas in Beijing on account of the siginificant livestock production.

Conclution

The results suggest that the respiration of human and livestock represents a significant CO2 source in some cities and is nonnegligible for city carbon budget analysis and carbon monitoring.
Aplastic anemia: a new complication in the recent mysterious hepatitis outbreak among children worldwide: two case reports
Authors: Ghanei-Shahmirzadi Ali , Reihani Hamid , Abbasi-Kashkooli Ali , Karbasian Fereshteh , Hedayati Seyyed Bozorgmehr , Bordbar Mohammadreza , Ataollahi Maryam , Dehghani Seyed Mohsen , Geramizadeh Bita
Published: November 2022

Background

Recently, an unknown hepatitis outbreak among children has concerned many individuals worldwide. These cases are frequently reported, mainly from Europe and other countries. In this study, we present two similar patients, who, to the best of our knowledge, are the first cases reported in the Middle East (Shiraz, Fars Province, Iran). Unlike in similar cases reported up until 30 April 2022, our patients’ hepatitis eventually resulted in aplastic anemia.

Case presentation

In this study, we present cases of two Iranian boys aged 13 and 8 years with hepatitis of unknown origin who developed aplastic anemia in the course of hospitalization.

Conclusions

Hepatitis-associated aplastic anemia is a well-known immune-mediated form of aplastic anemia that we detected in our patients and treated with immunosuppressive therapy. One patient established a satisfactory response to the treatment, but unfortunately, the other was declared brain dead.
Cloud-based multiclass anomaly detection and categorization using ensemble learning
Authors: Shahzad Faisal , Mannan Abdul , Javed Abdul Rehman , Almadhor Ahmad S. , Baker Thar , Al-Jumeily OBE Dhiya
Published: November 2022

The world of the Internet and networking is exposed to many cyber-attacks and threats. Over the years, machine learning models have progressed to be integrated into many scenarios to detect anomalies accurately. This paper proposes a novel approach named cloud-based anomaly detection (CAD) to detect cloud-based anomalies. CAD consist of two key blocks: ensemble machine learning (EML) model for binary anomaly classification and convolutional neural network long short-term memory (CNN-LSTM) for multiclass anomaly categorization. CAD is evaluated on a complex UNSW dataset to analyze the performance of binary anomaly detection and categorization of multiclass anomalies. Furthermore, the comparison of CAD with other machine learning conventional models and state-of-the-art studies have been presented. Experimental analysis shows that CAD outperforms other studies by achieving the highest accuracy of 97.06% for binary anomaly detection and 99.91% for multiclass anomaly detection.
Climate change-driven shifts in plant–soil feedbacks: a meta-analysis
Authors: Hassan Kamrul , Golam Dastogeer K. M. , Carrillo Yolima , Nielsen Uffe N.
Published: November 2022

Background

Climate change is expected to affect plant–soil feedbacks (PSFs, i.e., the effects of a plant on the growth of another plant or community grown in the same soil via changes in soil abiotic and biotic properties), influencing plant community dynamics and, through this, ecosystem functioning. However, our knowledge of the effects of climate changes on the magnitude and direction of PSFs remains limited, with considerable variability between studies. We quantified PSFs associated with common climate change factors, specifically drought and warming, and their corresponding ambient (control) conditions using a meta-analytical approach. We investigated whether drought and warming effects on PSFs were consistent across functional groups, life histories (annual versus perennial) and species origin (native versus non-native), planting (monoculture, mixed culture) and experimental (field, greenhouse/laboratory) conditions.

Results

PSFs were negative (a mechanism that encourage species co-existence) under drought and neutral under corresponding ambient conditions, whereas PSFs were negative under both ambient and elevated temperatures, with no apparent difference in effect size. The response to drought was largely driven by stronger negative PSFs in grasses, indicating that grasses are more likely to show stronger negative PSFs than other functional groups under drought. Moreover, non-native species showed negative drought-induced PSFs while native species showed neutral PSFs under drought. By contrast, we found the opposite in pattern in response to warming for native and non-native species. Perennial herbs displayed stronger drought-induced negative PSFs than annual herbs. Mixed species communities displayed more negative PSFs than monocultures, independent of climate treatment. Finally, warming and drought treatment PSF effect sizes were more negative in experiments performed in the field than under controlled conditions.

Conclusions

We provide evidence that drought and warming can induce context-specific shifts in PSFs, which are dependent on plant functional groups, life history traits and experimental conditions. These shifts would be expected to have implications for plant community dynamics under projected climate change scenarios.
Integrated proteomic and metabolomic modules identified as biomarkers of mortality in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities study and the African American Study of Kidney Disease and Hypertension
Authors: Zhou Linda , Surapaneni Aditya , Rhee Eugene P. , Yu Bing , Boerwinkle Eric , Coresh Josef , Grams Morgan E. , Schlosser Pascal
Published: November 2022

Background

Proteins and metabolites are essential for many biological functions and often linked through enzymatic or transport reactions. Individual molecules have been associated with all-cause mortality. Many of these are correlated and might jointly represent pathways or endophenotypes involved in diseases.

Results

We present an integrated analysis of proteomics and metabolomics via a local dimensionality reduction clustering method. We identified 224 modules of correlated proteins and metabolites in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study, a general population cohort of older adults (N = 4046, mean age 75.7, mean eGFR 65). Many of the modules displayed strong cross-sectional associations with demographic and clinical characteristics. In comprehensively adjusted analyses, including fasting plasma glucose, history of cardiovascular disease, systolic blood pressure and kidney function among others, 60 modules were associated with mortality. We transferred the network structure to the African American Study of Kidney Disease and Hypertension (AASK) (N = 694, mean age 54.5, mean mGFR 46) and identified mortality associated modules relevant in this disease specific cohort. The four mortality modules relevant in both the general population and CKD were all a combination of proteins and metabolites and were related to diabetes / insulin secretion, cardiovascular disease and kidney function. Key components of these modules included N-terminal (NT)-pro hormone BNP (NT-proBNP), Sushi, Von Willebrand Factor Type A, EGF And Pentraxin (SVEP1), and several kallikrein proteases.

Conclusion

Through integrated biomarkers of the proteome and metabolome we identified functions of (patho-) physiologic importance related to diabetes, cardiovascular disease and kidney function.
Longitudinal Effects of a sit-stand desk intervention - persistence, Fade-Out, and psychological momentum: a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Konradt Udo , Nath Alexander , Krys Sabrina , Heblich Frank
Published: November 2022

Background

This study examined whether the effects of a sit-stand desk (SSD) intervention on employees’ musculoskeletal complaints (i.e., intensity and prevalence) and activation (i.e., vigilance and vitality) persist or fade out and whether velocity and acceleration of health improvements can predict medium-term (six-month) and long-term (24-month) improvements. Drawing from dynamic models of self-regulation, as well as the psychological momentum theory, we hypothesized that velocity and acceleration of health improvements in the early stages of the intervention would predict medium-term health improvements, which sustain long-term.

Methods

We used data from a six-month seven-wave randomized controlled trial with employees in mostly sedentary occupations and supplemented this by follow-up data from the same participants 18 months later, resulting in eight waves.

Results

Bayesian structural equational modeling revealed no significant intervention effect after 24 months implying a fade-out. But more importantly, velocity and, partially, acceleration of health improvements at earlier stages predicted medium-term improvements in musculoskeletal complaints and long-term improvements in vigilance.

Conclusion

The findings of this study suggest that positive intervention effects fade out over time and health effects benefit from prompt progresses at the beginning of the intervention, warranting exploration in prolonged longitudinal studies.
Trustworthiness judgments and Borderline Personality Disorder: an experimental study on the interplay of happiness and trustworthiness appraisals and the effects of wearing face masks during the Covid-19 pandemic in Germany
Authors: Biermann Miriam , Schulze Anna , Unterseher Franziska , Hamm Marie , Atanasova Konstantina , Stahlberg Dagmar , Lis Stefanie
Published: November 2022

Background

Judging positive emotional states or the trustworthiness of others is important for forming and maintaining social affiliations. Past studies have described alterations in these appraisal processes in Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), which might have been exacerbated during the Covid-19 pandemic by the requirement to wear face masks. In the present study, we investigated in an online-survey a) whether social judgments are particularly strongly affected in individuals with BPD when they have to judge happiness and trustworthiness in facial stimuli covered by a mask, b) whether appraising a positive emotional state affects trustworthiness appraisals differentially in BPD and healthy individuals and c) whether social judgments are related to how individuals with BPD experience wearing masks during the pandemic.

Methods

Participants (67 HC, 75 BPD) judged happiness and trustworthiness of faces with calm expression with and without masks. Additionally, data on participants’ confidence in their judgments, the experience of the burden induced by wearing masks, the protective benefits of masks, and compliance to wearing masks were collected.

Results

Happiness and trustworthiness were evaluated less confidently and less intense in the BPD group compared to HC. Masks reduced happiness and trustworthiness ratings in both groups. Lower happiness appraisals contributed to lower trustworthiness appraisals except for those with BPD and low levels of symptom severity. Lower trustworthiness ratings were associated with a higher burden, attributing a lower benefit to masks and lower compliance with wearing masks in BPD.

Conclusions

Masks do not exacerbate deficits in social judgments. However, lower trustworthiness appraisals in general were linked with more negative evaluations of wearing masks in the BPD group.

Trial registration

The aims and hypotheses were preregistered together with the design and planned analyses (https://aspredicted.org/f5du7.pdf). For findings of an additionally preregistered research question on the impact of adverse childhood experiences see supplementary material.
A state-of-the-art examination of disaster management in Sierra Leone: the implementation drawbacks, research gaps, advances, and prospects
Authors: Turay Bashiru , Gbetuwa Sheku
Published: November 2022

Unfolding events have shown that Sierra Leone is enduring various disasters at a worrying rate. While progress is being made in disaster management, activities that degrade the fragile ecosystem, exacerbated by climate change, poverty, and bad governance, remain growing concerns. Amid these concerns, there is inadequate information to take appropriate actions. The authors wish to provide a solution by examining 35 publications from various scholarly and grey literature and raw data sources, following a critical review process designed to expose the implementation drawbacks, research gaps, advances, and prospects in disaster management in Sierra Leone. The study results show that lapses in data management, fewer professionals, and inefficiencies in communication are the most pressing considerations for improving disaster management in the country. Inadequate funds to implement management plans remain pervasive. Following these findings, we recommend that all first responders be routinely exposed to international tabletop exercises and simulated disaster response training to help them build their capacities and learn from other countries. Students in the relevant disciplines should be encouraged to participate in these exercises to facilitate early learning. Also, management initiatives should consider gender equity, the situations of the disabled, and other vulnerable groups at all levels of planning and implementation of activities. Future studies should assess the influence of social media on disaster management research and practice in the country.
Labor order under digital control: research on labor control of take-out platform riders
Authors: Chen Long
Published: November 2022

Following Marx’s analysis of technical control, this article studies the labor process of take-out riders from the perspectives of organizational and scientific technology. On the one hand, by redistributing control power, the platform system (software) and consumers replace the platform company (manager) to manage take-out riders. Although the platform company seems to have given up direct control over riders, it downplays the employer’s responsibility and transfers labor conflicts to the platform system and consumers. On the other hand, digital control has changed from physical machines and computer equipment to virtual software and data. The platform system makes labor order possible by subtly collecting and analyzing data from riders and using these data analysis results to manage them. Thus, digital control not only weakens riders’ willingness to resist and gradually reduces their autonomy but also “invites” them to participate in an implicit process of self-management. The control methods of capital change not only from autocracy to hegemony but also from physical to virtual.
Bureaucratic control across enterprise boundaries: labor organization and the control of the online car-hailing platforms
Authors: Zhao Lei , Han Yue
Published: November 2022

This article shows that the online car-hailing platforms, supported by the digital technology of information matching, are more than some “flat” market organizations but are essentially bureaucratic organizations that are market-oriented and rely on business rules, digital technology, and third-party management institutions. By taking advantage of its monopolistic position, the car-hailing platform has built a bureaucratic control system with multilayer hierarchies in which various market players outside the enterprise participate. The platform first organizes production in a cooperative way by setting up external jobs, then guarantees that both drivers and leasing companies will follow the business rules and improve predictability. Finally, the platform uses digital technology and leasing companies to realize driver management and rule implementation.
Developing an implementation fidelity checklist for a vocational rehabilitation intervention
Authors: Powers Katie , Clarke Sara , Phillips Julie , Holmes Jain A. , Cripps Rachel , Craven Kristelle , Farrin Amanda , das Nair Roshan , Radford Kathryn A.
Published: November 2022

Background

Despite growing numbers of studies reporting the efficacy of complex interventions and their implementation, many studies fail to report information on implementation fidelity or describe how fidelity measures used within the study were developed. This study aimed to develop a fidelity checklist for measuring the implementation fidelity of an early, stroke-specialist vocational rehabilitation intervention (ESSVR) in the RETAKE trial.

Methods

To develop the fidelity measure, previous checklists were reviewed to inform the assessment structure, and core intervention components were extracted from intervention descriptions into a checklist, which was ratified by eight experts in fidelity measurement and complex interventions. Guidance notes were generated to assist with checklist completion. To test the measure, two researchers independently applied the checklist to fifteen stroke survivor intervention case notes using retrospective observational case review. The scoring was assessed for interrater reliability.

Results

A fidelity checklist containing 21 core components and 6 desirable components across 4 stages of intervention delivery was developed with corresponding guidance notes. Interrater reliability of each checklist item ranged from moderate to perfect (Cohen’s kappa 0.69–1).

Conclusions

The resulting checklist to assess implementation fidelity is fit for assessing the delivery of vocational rehabilitation for stroke survivors using retrospective observational case review. The checklist proved its utility as a measure of fidelity and may be used to inform the design of future implementation strategies.

Trial registration

ISRCTN, ISRCTN12464275. Registered on 13 March 2018.
IL-6 production through repression of UBASH3A gene via epigenetic dysregulation of super-enhancer in CD4+ T cells in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Yamagata Kaoru , Nakayamada Shingo , Zhang Tong , Nguyen Anh Phuong , Ohkubo Naoaki , Iwata Shigeru , Kato Shigeaki , Tanaka Yoshiya
Published: November 2022

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is associated with immune dysfunction. UBASH3A as a negative regulator of T cell receptors (TCRs) signaling is a susceptible factor in RA. The aim of this study was to determine the role of UBASH3A in RA pathogenesis, by assessing the role of super-enhancer (SE) in the control of UBASH3A expression in CD4+ T cells and the contribution of the latter in proinflammatory cytokine production in patients with RA.

Methods

UBASH3A mRNA and protein levels were quantified by PCR and western blotting, respectively. The cells were treated with a locked nucleic acid to inhibit enhancer RNA (eRNA) expression. Chromatin immunoprecipitation was used to identify the factors recruited to UBASH3A loci displaying SE architecture. CD4+ T cells were transfected with UBASH3A plasmids, and cytokine levels were measured by a cytometric bead array.

Results

UBASH3A was extracted as a RA susceptibility gene associated with SNPs in the SEs that are highly expressed in CD4+ T cells by in silico screening. UBASH3A mRNA and protein expression levels were lower in CD4+ T cells of RA patients than in the control. eRNA_1 and eRNA_3 knockdown reduced UBASH3A mRNA levels. RA patients exhibited accumulation of BTB and CNC homology 2 (BACH2), the silencing transcription factor, at the UBASH3A loci in CD4+ T cells, but not the SE-defining factor, mediator complex subunit 1 (MED1)/bromodomain 4 (BRD4). However, opposite changes were observed in the control. Stimulation of TCRs expressed on CD4+ T cells of RA patients resulted in interleukin (IL)-6 production, while UBASH3A over-expression significantly inhibited the production.

Conclusions

In RA, transcription of UBASH3A is suppressed via epigenetic regulation of SE in CD4+ T cells. Low UBASH3A levels result in excessive TCR signal activation with subsequent enhancement of IL-6 production.
The differential fault analysis on block cipher FeW
Authors: Xiao Haiyan , Wang Lifang , Chang Jinyong
Published: November 2022

Feather weight (FeW) cipher is a lightweight block cipher proposed by Kumar et al. in 2019, which takes 64 bits plaintext as input and produces 64 bits ciphertext. As Kumar et al. said, FeW is a software oriented design with the aim of achieving high efficiency in software based environments. It seems that FeW is immune to many cryptographic attacks, like linear, impossible differential, differential and zero correlation attacks. However, in recent work, Xie et al. reassessed the security of FeW. More precisely, they proved that under the differential fault analysis (DFA) on the encryption states, an attacker can completely recover the master secret key. In this paper, we revisit the block cipher FeW and consider the DFA on its key schedule algorithm, which is rather popular cryptanalysis for kinds of block ciphers. In particular, by respectively injected faults into the 30th and 29th round subkeys, one can recover about 55/80 ≈ 69% bits of master key. Then the brute force searching remaining bits, one can obtain the full master secret key. The simulations and experiment results show that our analysis is practical.
Culinary trails in popularizing ethnic cuisines
Authors: Topczewska Jadwiga , Lechowska Jadwiga , Kaszuba Joanna , Krupa Wanda
Published: November 2022

The aim of the article is to advance knowledge regarding the significant role played by culinary trail projects in promoting foods from ethnic groups residing in Podkarpackie, Poland’s southeastern region. Podkarpackie’s culinary heritage, cultural identities, and the specificity of its cuisine that contribute to the region’s touristic potential are presented. Traditional and regional dishes of Podkarpackie are characterized by their originality and rich flavors, variety, and simplicity of preparation. They contribute to the region’s tourist attractions. Many restaurants in Southeast Poland offer regional dishes, such as kwaśnica, fuczki, and pierogi with various fillings or stuffed cabbage rolls. Culinary trails can be a critical factor in promoting not only the region’s ethnic food but its related culture and art as well.
Review of data quality indicators and metrics, and suggestions for indicators and metrics for structural health monitoring
Authors: Makhoul Nisrine
Published: November 2022

Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) systems have been extensively implemented to deliver data support and safeguard structural safety in structural integrity management context. SHM relies on data that can be noisy in large amounts or scarce. Little work has been done on SHM data quality (DQ). Therefore, this article suggests SHM DQ indicators and recommends deterministic and probabilistic SHM DQ metrics to address uncertainties. This will allow better decision-making for structural integrity management.

Therefore, first, the literature on DQ indicators and measures is thoroughly examined. Second, and for the first time, necessary SHM DQ indicators are identified, and their definitions are tailored.

Then SHM deterministic simplified DQ metrics are suggested, and more essentially probabilistic metrics are offered to address the embedded uncertainties and to account for the data flow.

A generic example of a bridge with permanent and occasional monitoring systems is provided. It helps to better understand the influence of SHM data flow on the choice of DQ metrics and allocated probability distribution functions. Finally, a real case example is provided to test the feasibility of the suggested method within a realistic context.
Adaptation of the Suicide Attempt Resilience Scale (SRSA-18, Spanish version) for adolescents
Authors: Sánchez-Teruel David , Robles-Bello María Auxiliadora , Sarhani-Robles Aziz , Sarhani-Robles Mariam
Published: November 2022

Background

The assessment of resilience as an outcome in adolescents remains a challenge, with few instruments available. Some studies have focused on risk factors, but few have focused on protective factors as a formula for measuring resilient outcomes.

Aims

To adapt a new Suicide Attempt Resilience Scale (SRSA-18) for use with adolescents, analysing its structural validity, the gender and age invariance of the measure, and divergent and convergent validity, together with its reliability.

Method

The psychometric properties of the scale were assessed in 628 participants aged between 13 and 18 years, of whom 342 (54.5%) were girls.

Results

After a process of adaptation for adolescents, exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis yielded a three-dimensional structure with adequate goodness-of-fit indices, invariance of the measure according to gender and age, adequate levels of reliability (ω = 0.91), high convergent validity with the 14-Item Resilience Scale and high divergent validity with the suicidal act/planning subdimension of the Adolescent Suicidal Behavior Assessment Scale.

Conclusions

There is a need to create and adapt instruments to measure resilience in some populations with high psychosocial vulnerability as a key aspect for measuring the impact of prevention and mental health promotion programmes in adolescents.
Nonlinear speed-ups in ultracold quantum gases
Authors: Deffner Sebastian
Published: November 2022

Quantum mechanics is an inherently linear theory. However, collective effects in many body quantum systems can give rise to effectively nonlinear dynamics. In the present work, we analyze whether and to what extent such nonlinear effects can be exploited to enhance the rate of quantum evolution. To this end, we compute a suitable version of the quantum speed limit for numerical and analytical examples. We find that the quantum speed limit grows with the strength of the nonlinearity, yet it does not trivially scale with the “degree” of nonlinearity. This is numerically demonstrated for the parametric harmonic oscillator obeying Gross-Pitaevskii and Kolomeisky dynamics, and analytically for expanding boxes under Gross-Pitaevskii dynamics.
LBSUN87 Human Cidec Transgene Improves Lipid Metabolism And Protects Against High Fat-diet Induced Glucose Intolerance In Mice
Authors: Gupta Abhishek , Balakrishnan Bijinu , Karki Shakun , Slayton Mark , Gokce Noyan , Sharma Vishva M , Puri Vishwajeet
Published: November 2022

CIDEC expression in adipose tissue positively correlates with insulin sensitivity in obese humans. Further, a single-nucleotide CIDEC variant (E186X) causes lipodystrophy, hypertriglyceridemia, and insulin resistance. To establish the unknown mechanistic link between CIDEC and maintenance of systemic glucose homeostasis, we generated transgenic mouse models expressing CIDEC (Ad-CIDECtg) and CIDEC E186X variant (Ad-CIDECmut) transgene specifically in the adipose tissue. Ad-CIDECtg but not Ad-CIDECmut mice were protected against high-fat diet (HFD)-induced glucose intolerance. Transcriptomics and lipidomics revealed the role of CIDEC in lipid metabolism. Serum triglycerides, cholesterol, and low-density lipoproteins were lower in HFD-fed Ad-CIDECtg mice compared to their littermate controls. Mechanistically, CIDEC regulates the enzymatic activity of ATGL via interacting with its activator, CGI-58, to reduce free fatty acid (FFA) release and lipotoxicity. We confirmed that CIDEC is indeed a vital regulator of lipolysis in adipose tissue of obese humans. Finally, treatment with recombinant CIDEC decreased triglyceride breakdown in visceral human adipose tissue. Our study unravels a central pathway whereby adipocyte-specific CIDEC plays a pivotal role in regulating adipose lipid-metabolism and whole-body glucose homeostasis. In sum, our findings identify human CIDEC as a potential 'drug' or a 'druggable' target to reverse obesity-induced lipotoxicity and glucose intolerance.

Presentation: Sunday, June 12, 2022 12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
LBSUN99 Combination Of Drosophila And Mammalian Genetics Identifies Lcorl As A Novel Regulator Of Metabolism
Authors: Elmquist Joel
Published: November 2022

Obesity and adult-onset diabetes result from a complex interaction of multiple genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors. The hypothalamus contains multiple nuclei required for the regulation of metabolic homeostasis. One nucleus, termed the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH), facilitates glucose homeostasis and metabolic adaptations to challenges such as high fat diet (HFD) and exercise. Using a combination of Drosophila and mouse genetics, we uncovered a novel gene network whose function is required for VMH-regulated whole body metabolism. Using Drosophila to rapidly screen orthologs of genes enriched in the mouse VMH, we identified the gene encoding the Ecdysone Induced Protein 93F (E93; human ortholog, Ligand dependent corepressor-like, Lcorl). Adult flies with neural knockdown of E93 are obese and hyperphagic, with increased energy stores, reduced exercise endurance, and dampened circadian amplitude. These findings reveal a novel role of E93 in metabolism. We found that the knockdown of E93 specifically in myoinhibitory peptide (MIP) and GABAergic neurons are sufficient to recapitulate the phenotype seen in a pan-neuronal E93 knockdown. | In mice, we found that Lcorl, the mammalian orthologue of E93, is highly expressed throughout the entire VMH. We used CRISPR/Cas9 to generate mice harboring both a Lcorl KO and a floxed allele to investigate its function in the whole-body and in a tissue specific manner. Lcorl KO mice are viable and fertile. However, they have disruptions in growth, lipid metabolism, and circadian rhythm. Taken together these data reveal that Lcorl is as a novel regulator of energy metabolism and circadian rhythm. Additionally, this study shows the power of combined drosophila and mammalian genetics in uncovering novel regulators of metabolism.

Presentation: Sunday, June 12, 2022 12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
ODP005 Molecular Characterization of Early Adipose Tissue Remodeling and Fibrosis in a Murine Model of Diet-Induced Obesity.
Authors: Timms Katie , Winkel Emma , Ahmed Rayan , Maurice Sean , Gray Sarah
Published: November 2022

One of the many pathophysiological changes associated with obesity is the build up of structural and physiochemical extracellular matrix components in adipose depots, known as adipose tissue fibrosis. Like liver fibrosis, adipose tissue fibrosis occurs as a response to chronic injury and inflammation and can perpetuate inflammation and impede proper tissue functioning. Key adipose tissue fibrosis markers have been identified in obese adipose tissue, including collagen VI and its cleavage product endotrophin, however, adipose tissue fibrosis remains poorly characterized, particularly in its initiating phases. We have developed and characterized a murine model of diet-induced obesity (12 weeks of high fat feeding), insulin resistance, and early fibrotic development in both sexes. While diagnosable fibrosis was absent, as determined by picrosirius red staining, we detected elevated collagen VI, TGF-β, TNF-α, and TIMP-1 mRNA in gonadal white adipose of both sexes. TIMP-4 was decreased in males but elevated in females. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed pericellular build up of collagen VI immunoreactivity in males only, co-localized with immunoreactivity of its protease MMP-14, which is known to generate the pro-fibrotic fragment endotrophin. This work identifies key sex differences and fibrosis markers present during the initiation of adipose tissue fibrosis, earlier than diagnosable fibrosis can be detected, highlighting their potential as therapeutic targets for prevention or reversal of fibrosis in the treatment of obesity and insulin resistance.

Presentation: No date and time listed
LBSAT63 Cushing Syndrome As A Presentation Of Adrenocortical Carcinoma.Case Report
Authors: Eid Mennaallah , Zahra Tasneem , Vargas-Jerez Julia
Published: November 2022

Introduction

adrenocortical carcinoma is a rare endocrine malignancy (1) Case: 44 year old afro American female with no past medical history. No regular medications. Amenorrhea for 2 years. smokes cigarettes. Irrelevant family history. She presented with itchiness after cat scratch and was found to have hypertension urgency 229/123. Review of systems was positive for weight gain and easy bruises. Physical examination alert and oriented with body mass index of 31 kg/m2 heart rate 75 beats per minute normal heart sounds and clear lungs with scratch marks on left hand. bilateral lower extremities pitting edema, supraclavicular fat pad and violet abdominal striae. No facial plethora or hirsutism or lymphadenopathy or acne. Laboratory work up was remarkable for hypokalemia and metabolic alkalosis. High plasma morning cortisol level 53.6ug/dl normal between 6.2 and 29, 24hour urine cortisol and DHEAS and low ACTH FSH and LH. Estradiol 261pg/ml 17hydroxyprogesterone 49ng/dl and prolactin 31.7ng/ml. HBA1C 6.7. Normal renin aldosterone TSH and plasma and 24hour metanephrine and normetanephrine. Normal creatinine liver function and complete blood count. CT abdomen and pelvis with contrast showed large lobular heterogeneously enhancing mass in the left adrenal gland of 9. 0×10.1×10.1cm with left kidney posterior displacement and left renal vein compression. The pancreatic tail and splenic vein were draped over the mass. The right adrenal gland and other abdominal organs were unremarkable. DEXA scan showed osteopenia. CT chest showed 5mm right lower lobe nodule and compression fracture in the 7th thoracic vertebrae. Echocardiogram showed dilated left ventricle dimension with reduced ejection fraction 45%. The diagnosis was made for ACTH independent Cushing syndrome with adrenal mass. She underwent open left adrenalectomy distal pancreatectomy splenectomy and left nephrectomy in another institution. Histopathology showed 12×7.5×7 cm stage III adrenal cortical malignancy T3N0M0. Extensive necrosis and capsular invasion but negative surgical margins. Possibility of lung metastasis. Postoperative cortisol level 6. 02ug/dl. She was kept on postoperative slow tapering hydrocortisone with plan of chemotherapy and Mitotane.

Conclusion

adrenocortical carcinoma has a poor prognosis. It usually metastasizes to distant organs at time of diagnosis and rarely presents as Cushing syndrome. Surgical resection is the main management of localized tumors with controlling the effects of secreted hormones. Adjuvant therapies are chemotherapy radiotherapy and Mitotane according to the tumor stage and size. Mitotane is adrenal cytotoxic agent showed increase survival of advanced stages(1). References: 1-Stigliano A,Cerquetti L,Lardo P,Petrangeli E,Toscano V.2017 New insights and future perspectives in the therapeutic strategy of adrenocortical carcinoma(review). Oncol Rep 37: 1301-1311

Presentation: Saturday, June 11, 2022 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
ODP296 An unusual presentation of Glucagonoma syndrome.
Authors: Zare Ahmad , Deshmukh Mrunalini , Vemparala Pranathi
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Glucagonoma is an uncommon neoplasm of the pancreatic neuroendocrine islet α-cells. At least 50% of cases will have metastatic disease when diagnosed. Glucagonomas can be associated with other tumors in Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome 1 (MEN 1), but this association is rare and comprises no more than 3% of glucagonomas. Glucagonoma syndrome is a rare paraneoplastic phenomenon characterized by necrolytic migratory erythema (NME), hyperglucagonemia, diabetes mellitus, anemia, weight loss, glossitis, cheilitis, steatorrhea, diarrhea, and venous thrombosis.

Case presentation

A 55-year-old Caucasian woman was admitted for acute onset of shortness of breath and she was seen by endocrinology team for persistent hyperglycemia. Her medical history revealed a long-standing uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus and an episode of left lower extremity deep-vein thrombosis. Her physical exam revealed tachycardia, otherwise unremarkable, with no skin lesions. Laboratory results showed hyperglycemia (387 mg/dl), Hemoglobin A1C, 9%, and hypoalbuminemia (3.4 g/dl). Her Hemoglobin (13 g/dl), white cell count (6100/μL), and platelet level (19.3 × 104/μL) were within normal limits. The patient underwent CT pulmonary angiogram, which showed a large saddle pulmonary embolism as well as a distal pancreatic mass measuring 4.5×3.4 cm, which contains numerous coarse calcifications. Pancreatic mass was confirmed in a CT abdomen and pelvis with contrast. CA 19-9 was elevated to 51 U/ml (normal range, 0- 35U/ml). The GI team performed an Endoscopic Ultrasound, and samples were sent for FNA and flow cytometry which revealed a 4 cm irregular heterogeneous mass with calcifications at the distal pancreatic body, positive for Pankeratin (CK), Cam 5.2, Synaptophysin, Chromogranin A, and CD56, consistent with Pancreatic neuroendocrine Tumor. Her serum glucagon level was elevated to 447 pg/mL (normal range, 50 -150 pg/mL), while her levels of other hormones, such as somatostatin or gastrin, were within normal limits. Glucagonoma of the pancreas was diagnosed, and a spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy was performed. Histopathological examination revealed a 5.9 cm alpha-cell pancreatic tumor without lymphovascular or perineural tumor invasion. (AJCC 8th edition staging II, pT3, pN0, MX, G1). Immunohistochemical staining was strongly positive for glucagon. A gallium-68 positron emission tomography (68Ga-PET, Netspot) did not show metastasis. Post resection surveillance showed normalization in Glucagon level and no evidence of recurrence in CT abdomen.

Conclusion

The diagnosis of glucagonoma is often delayed due to unusual initial manifestations of glucagonoma. Early diagnosis provides a good chance of complete surgical removal as the only curative treatment.

Presentation: No date and time listed