bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incidence and risk factors of surgical site infection in patients with head and neck cancer: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Yu , Wang Mingyi , Hou Lili , Xiang Fuping , Zhao Xiaomei , Qian Meizhen
Published: September 2023

We systematically review the incidence and risk factors of surgical site infection (SSI) in patients with head and neck cancer. PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases were searched to obtain studies on the risk factors for SSI in patients with HNC. The retrieval time was from the establishment of the database to February 2023. Two reviewers independently screened the literature, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias in included studies. Meta‐analysis was performed by using Stata 15.1 software. A total of 32 articles including 128 919 patients with head and neck cancer and 2949 cases of SSI were included in this meta‐analysis. The incidence rate of SSI in head and neck cancer ranges from 19% to 29%, and the overall infection rate was 24%. Meta‐analysis indicated that BMI < 20 kg/m2 (OR, 2.64; 95% CI, 1.74–4.00; I2, 0%), diabetes (OR, 3.00; 95% CI, 2.12–4.16; I2, 60.6%), ASA score (OR, 1.51; 95% CI, 1.29–1.77; I2, 0%), radiotherapy (OR, 2.27; 95% CI, 1.87–2.77; I2, 44.8%), chemotherapy (OR, 2.36; 95% CI, 1.64–3.40; I2, 0%), clindamycin antibiotic (OR, 2.99; 95% CI, 1.82–2.93; I2, 36.5%), deficit repair (OR, 3.76; 95% CI, 1.22–11.59; I2, 91.4%), neck dissection (OR, 2.13; 95% CI, 1.63–2.79; I2, 16.4%), blood transfusion (OR, 2.29; 95% CI, 1.52–3.45; I2, 66.2%), mandibular (OR, 3.17; 95% CI, 1.85–5.42; I2, 73%), tracheostomy (OR, 2.51; 95% CI, 1.74–3.62; I2, 86.4%), operation time (OR, 1.42; 95% CI, 1.16–1.74; I2, 86.4%), ALB (OR, 2.48; 95% CI, 1.95–3.15; I2, 5.3%) were risk factors of surgical site infection in patients with head and neck cancer (p < 0.05). The results of the sensitivity analysis showed good agreement in all risk factors and the results had stability. The present meta‐analysis suggests that BMI < 20 kg/m2, diabetes, ASA score, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, clindamycin antibiotic, deficit repair, neck dissection, blood transfusion, mandibular, tracheostomy, operation time, and ALB were significant risk factors for SSI.
Ultrasonographic features of mass lesions in the oral submucosal epithelium using intraoral ultrasonography
Authors: Konishi Masaru , Ando Toshinori , Miyauchi Mutsumi , Kakimoto Naoya
Published: September 2023

Background

Mass lesions occurring under the oral mucosal epithelium are often small and difficult to diagnose; however, intraoral ultrasonography can delineate these lesions. We aimed to investigate the features of submucosal mass lesions in the oral cavity using intraoral ultrasonography.

Methods

Fifty patients with hemangioma, irritation fibroma, mucous cyst, lipoma, and pleomorphic adenoma were included. Age, site, largest diameter, thickness, marginal morphology type, border type, internal echo posterior echo, and internal or peripheral Doppler images of the lesions were recorded.

Results

The hemangiomas were internally hypoechoic and exhibited a cord‐like structure; irritation fibromas, mainly internally isoechoic; mucous cysts, hypoechoic; and the lipomas appeared as homogeneous, isoechoic, or hyperechoic images with unclear borders. Pleomorphic adenomas were surrounded by a single hypoechoic zone, suggesting a thick capsular structure, were predominantly isoechoic internally, and appeared as cyst‐like hypoechoic images.

Conclusions

The features of the lesions were identified and delineated using intraoral ultrasonography.
Wnt signaling in synaptogenesis of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Zhang Cheng‐Ting , Wang Joy , Wang Wen‐Yuan
Published: September 2023

Alzheimer's disease (AD), recognized as the leading cause of dementia, occupies a prominent position on the list of significant neurodegenerative disorders, representing a significant global health concern with far‐reaching implications at both individual and societal levels. The primary symptom of Alzheimer's disease is a decrease in synaptic potency along with synaptic connection loss. Synapses, which act as important linkages between neuronal units within the cerebral region, are critical in signal transduction processes essential to orchestrating cognitive tasks. Synaptic connections act as critical interconnections between neuronal cells inside the cerebral environment, facilitating critical signal transduction processes required for cognitive functions. The confluence of axonal and dendritic filopodial extensions culminates in the creation of intercellular connections, coordinated by various signals and molecular mechanisms. The progression of synaptic maturation and plasticity is a critical determinant in maintaining mental well‐being, and abnormalities in these processes have been linked to the development of neurodegenerative diseases. Wnt signaling pathways are important to the orchestration of synapse development. This review examines the complicated interplay between Wnt signaling and dendritic filopodia, including an examination of the regulatory complexities and molecular machinations involved in synaptogenesis progression. Then, these findings are contextualized within the context of AD pathology, allowing for the consideration of prospective therapeutic approaches based on the findings and development of novel avenues for future scientific research.
Behavioral contrast: An exploratory survey of practitioner experiences
Authors: Boyle Megan A. , Uribe‐Zarain Ximena , Powell Ann M.
Published: September 2023

Behavioral contrast is defined as a change in reinforcement conditions in one context that causes a change in behavior in the opposite direction in another, unchanged context. Although behavioral contrast has implications for applied behavior analysts, researchers have not examined ramifications or identified common methods of mitigating contrast in applied settings. Therefore, we surveyed Board Certified Behavior Analysts in an exploratory investigation to determine practitioner experiences with behavioral contrast. Participants' responses reflected a variety of themes: contrast resulted in conversations with stakeholders; supporting stakeholders and mitigating factors are important; contrast is due to inconsistencies across settings; and contrast affects stakeholder buy‐in, hurts rapport or relationships, and produces negative emotions. Our results suggest that contrast is not an innocuous occurrence in applied settings. We recommend a variety of areas for future research to further predict and control contrast and to identify the extent to which it affects clinical practice.
Lysinuric protein intolerance exhibiting renal tubular acidosis/Fanconi syndrome in a Japanese woman
Authors: Hanafusa Hiroaki , Nakamura Katsuya , Kamijo Yuji , Kitahara Masashi , Ehara Takashi , Yoshinaga Tsuneaki , Aoki Kaoru , Katoh Nagaaki , Yamaguchi Tomomi , Kosho Tomoki , Sekijima Yoshiki
Published: September 2023

Lysinuric protein intolerance (LPI), caused by pathogenic variants of SLC7A7, is characterized by protein aversion, failure to thrive, hyperammonemia, and hepatomegaly. Recent studies have reported that LPI can cause multiple organ dysfunctions, including kidney disease, autoimmune deficiency, pulmonary alveolar proteinosis, and osteoporosis. We report the case of a 47‐year‐old Japanese woman who was initially diagnosed with renal tubular acidosis (RTA), Fanconi syndrome, and rickets. At the age of 3 years, she demonstrated a failure to thrive. Urinary amino acid analysis revealed elevated lysine and arginine levels, which were masked by pan‐amino aciduria. She was subsequently diagnosed with rickets at 5 years of age and RTA/Fanconi syndrome at 15 years of age. She was continuously treated with supplementation of vitamin D3, phosphate, and bicarbonate. A renal biopsy at 18 years of age demonstrated diffuse proximal and distal tubular damage with endocytosis‐lysosome pathway abnormalities. Distinctive symptoms of LPI, such as protein aversion and postprandial hyperammonemia were not observed throughout the patient's clinical course. The patient underwent a panel‐based comprehensive genetic testing and was diagnosed with LPI. As the complications of LPI involve many organs, patients lacking distinctive symptoms may develop various diseases, including RTA/Fanconi syndrome. Our case indicates that proximal and distal tubular damages are notable findings in patients with LPI. The possibility of LPI should be carefully considered in the management of RTA/Fanconi syndrome and/or incomprehensible pathological tubular damage, even in the absence of distinctive symptoms; furthermore, a comprehensive genetic analysis is useful for diagnosing LPI.
Detecting human cytomegalovirus in urine, vagina and saliva: Impact of biological fluids and storage durations and temperatures on CMV DNA recovery
Authors: Tan Ngee Keong , Carrington David , Pope Cassie F.
Published: September 2023

Sample collection, transport and storage conditions vary in the human cytomegalovirus (CMV) shedding literature. Currently, limited data exist on the impact of biological fluids and pre‐analytical sample handling on the detection of CMV DNA. To evaluate CMV DNA recovery from urine, vaginal fluid and saliva stored in different conditions, adult urine, vaginal and saliva fluids and swabs, stored with or without selected nucleic acid preservation media at various durations and temperatures, was compared by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) quantitation of spiked samples and self‐collected urine (n = 45) and vaginal swabs (n = 58) from CMV seropositive pregnant women. There was a time‐dependent reduction in CMV DNA recovery from urine, urine diluted in phosphate‐buffered saline, and saliva stored at 2−8°C, but not from urine preserved in cobas® PCR transport media (CPM) (urine/CPM). For vaginal fluid, a reduction in recovery was evident after 7 days storage at 2−8°C. CMV DNA recovery over 91 days was similar between −80°C and −20°C storage for urine and vaginal swabs preserved in CPM, and saliva swabs preserved in eNAT® PCR transport media. A statistically significant change in CMV DNA recovery after 25 months storage (median) at −80°C was not observed for self‐collected urine/CPM and vaginal swab/CPM from pregnant women. Taken together, recovery of CMV DNA is dependent on fluid type and storage conditions. To improve the validity and reliability of detection at different storage durations and temperatures, the use of nucleic acid preserving transport media at the point of collection for urine, vaginal fluid and saliva may be essential.
Altitudinal dependence of projected changes in occurrence of extreme events in the Great Alpine Region
Authors: Napoli Anna , Parodi Antonio , von Hardenberg Jost , Pasquero Claudia
Published: September 2023

Climate change has a strong impact on the environment in mountain areas, where ecosystems have adapted to climatic conditions that change with elevation. In this study, the response of temperature and precipitation climatic indices in the complex orography setting of the Great Alpine Region is discussed. The high‐resolution gridded dataset that is presented has been produced with the Weather Research Forecasting (WRF) convection permitting regional model. Two 30‐year periods have been considered (1979–2008, 2039–2068), obtained by downscaling global climate simulations with historical setting and RCP8.5 emission scenario. Both daily temperature and precipitation statistics have been found to be significantly different in the two periods, consisting in an overall projected warming and drying of the region. The dependence of the projected changes on elevation is highlighted, indicating a larger warming at medium and high elevations as well as a limited or nonexisting drying at high elevations. Physical mechanisms at the base of those differences are presented and discussed.
Electrical stimulation of cochlear implant promotes activation of macrophages and fibroblasts under inflammation
Authors: Zhang Dingling , Chen Dongxiu , Wang Kaiye , Pan Jing , Tang Jie , Zhang Hongzheng
Published: September 2023

Objectives

The implanted electrodes deliver electric signals to spiral ganglion neurons, conferring restored hearing of cochlear implantation (CI) recipients. Postimplantation intracochlear fibrosis, which is observed in most CI recipients, disturbs the electrical signals and impairs the long‐term outcome of CI. The macrophages and fibroblasts activation is critical for the development of intracochlear fibrosis. However, the effect of electric stimulation of cochlear implant (ESCI) on the activity of macrophages and fibroblasts was unclear. In the present study, a human cochlear implant was modified to stimulate cultured macrophages and fibroblasts.

Methods

By measuring cellular marker and the expression level of cytokine production, the polarization and activity of macrophages and fibroblasts were examined with or without ESCI.

Results

Our data showed that ESCI had little effects on the morphology, density, and distribution of culturing macrophages and fibroblasts. Furthermore, ESCI alone did not affect the polarization of macrophages or the function of fibroblasts without the treatment of inflammatory factors. However, in the presence of LPS or IL‐4, ESCI further promoted the polarization of macrophages, and increased the expression of pro‐inflammatory or anti‐inflammatory factors, respectively. For fibroblasts, ESCI further increased the collagen I synthesis induced by TGF‐β1 treatment. Nifedipine inhibited ESCI induced calcium influx, and hereby abolished the promoted polarization and activation of macrophages and fibroblasts.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that acute inflammation should be well inhibited before the activation of cochlear implants to control the postoperative intracochlear fibrosis. The voltage‐gated calcium channels could be considered as the targets for reducing postimplantation inflammation and fibrosis.

Level of Evidence

NA.
Fighting against Drug‐Resistant Tumor by the Induction of Excessive Mitophagy with Transferrin Nanomedicine
Authors: Yu Yuanxiang , Chen Sijin , Wang Yupeng , Zhou Dongfang , Wu Dehua
Published: September 2023

The effectiveness of chemotherapy is primarily hindered by drug resistance, and autophagy plays a crucial role in overcoming this resistance. In this project, a human transferrin nanomedicine contains quercetin (a drug to induce excessive autophagy) and doxorubicin is developed (HTf@DOX/Qu NPs). The purpose of this nanomedicine is to enhance mitophagy and combating drug‐resistant cancer. Through in vitro studies, it is demonstrated that HTf@DOX/Qu NPs can effectively downregulate cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), leading to an excessive promotion of mitophagy and subsequent mitochondrial dysfunction via the PENT‐induced putative kinase 1 (PINK1)/Parkin axis. Additionally, HTf@DOX/Qu NPs can upregulate proapoptotic proteins to induce cellular apoptosis, thereby effectively reversing drug resistance. Furthermore, in vivo results have shown that HTf@DOX/Qu NPs exhibit prolonged circulation in the bloodstream, enhanced drug accumulation in tumors, and superior therapeutic efficacy compared to individual chemotherapy in a drug‐resistant tumor model. This study presents a promising strategy for combating multidrug‐resistant cancers by exacerbating mitophagy through the use of transferrin nanoparticles.
A composite method based on delta‐shaped basis functions and Lie group high‐order geometric integrator for solving Kawahara‐type equations
Authors: Oruç Ömer , Polat Murat
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we devise a novel method to solve Kawahara‐type equations numerically. In this novel method, for spatial discretization, we use delta‐shaped basis functions and generate differentiation matrices for spatial derivatives of the Kawahara‐type equations. For discretization of temporal variable, we utilize a high‐order geometric numerical integrator based on Lie group methods. For illustration of efficiency of the suggested method, we consider some test problems. We calculate errors and make some comparisons with other results that exist in literature. We also report changes in conservation laws during numerical simulations, and we indicate that the suggested method can preserve the conservation laws pretty good. Outcomes of numerical simulations indicate that the suggested method in this paper is reliable and effective for nonlinear partial differential equations (PDEs).
Error analysis of a linear numerical scheme for the Landau–Lifshitz equation with large damping parameters
Authors: Cai Yongyong , Chen Jingrun , Wang Cheng , Xie Changjian
Published: September 2023

A second‐order accurate, linear numerical method is analyzed for the Landau–Lifshitz equation with large damping parameters. This equation describes the dynamics of magnetization, with a non‐convexity constraint of unit length of the magnetization. The numerical method is based on the second‐order backward differentiation formula in time, combined with an implicit treatment for the linear diffusion term from the harmonic mapping part and explicit extrapolation for the nonlinear terms. Afterward, a projection step is applied to normalize the numerical solution at a point‐wise level. This numerical scheme has shown extensive advantages in the practical computations for the physical model with large damping parameters, which comes from the fact that only a linear system with constant coefficients (independent of both time and the updated magnetization) needs to be solved at each time step, and has greatly improved the numerical efficiency. Meanwhile, a theoretical analysis for this linear numerical scheme has not been available. In this paper, we provide a rigorous error estimate of the numerical scheme, in the discrete
norm, under suitable regularity assumptions and reasonable ratio between the time step size and the spatial mesh size. In particular, the projection operation is nonlinear, and a stability estimate for the projection step turns out to be highly challenging. Such a stability estimate is derived in details, which will play an essential role in the convergence analysis for the numerical scheme, if the damping parameter is greater than 3.
Multimorbidity associated with urinary incontinence among older women and men with complex needs in Aotearoa | New Zealand
Authors: Schluter Philip J. , Jamieson Hamish A.
Published: September 2023

Aims

To investigate the association between multimorbidity and urinary incontinence (UI) among community living older adults with complex needs in sex‐specific crude and adjusted analyses.

Methods

Since 2012 in Aotearoa | New Zealand (NZ) all community‐living older people with complex needs who require publicly funded assistance undergo a comprehensive standardized geriatric needs assessment using the interRAI‐HC instrument. Consenting adults aged ≥65 years who undertook this assessment between July 5, 2012 and December 31, 2020 were investigated. Multimorbidity was defined as having ≥2 chronic conditions. Recent bladder incontinence episodes were elicited and UI dichotomized into continent and incontinent groups.

Results

The study included 140 401 participants with an average age of 82.0 years (range: 65–107 years), of whom 85 746 (61.1%) were female. Overall, 36 185 (42.2%) females and 17 988 (32.9%) males reported UI. Participants had a median of 3 (range: 0–12) chronic conditions, with 109 135 (77.9%) classified as having multimorbidity. In adjusted modified Poisson regression analyses, the prevalence ratio for UI was 1.21 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.19, 1.24) times higher in females and 1.18 (95% CI: 1.14, 1.22) times higher for males with multimorbidity compared to those without multimorbidity.

Conclusions

Although significant, the estimated sex‐specific effect sizes were modest for the association between multimorbidity and UI in this population. However, despite using the comprehensive interRAI‐HC instrument, several potentially core chronic conditions were not adequately captured. Although increasingly recognized as an important and growing public health issue, capturing all relevant chronic conditions challenges many epidemiological investigations into multimorbidity.
Circumventing volumetric locking in explicit material point methods: A simple, efficient, and general approach
Authors: Zhao Yidong , Jiang Chenfanfu , Choo Jinhyun
Published: September 2023

The material point method (MPM) is frequently used to simulate large deformations of nearly incompressible materials such as water, rubber, and undrained porous media. However, MPM solutions to nearly incompressible materials are susceptible to volumetric locking, that is, overly stiff behavior with erroneous strain and stress fields. While several approaches have been devised to mitigate volumetric locking in the MPM, they require significant modifications of the existing MPM machinery, often tailored to certain basis functions or material types. In this work, we propose a locking‐mitigation approach featuring an unprecedented combination of simplicity, efficacy, and generality for a family of explicit MPM formulations. The approach combines the assumed deformation gradient () method with a volume‐averaging operation built on the standard particle–grid transfer scheme in the MPM. Upon explicit time integration, this combination yields a new and simple algorithm for updating the deformation gradient, preserving all other MPM procedures. The proposed approach is thus easy to implement, low‐cost, and compatible with the existing machinery in the MPM. Through various types of nearly incompressible problems in solid and fluid mechanics, we verify that the proposed approach efficiently circumvents volumetric locking in the explicit MPM, regardless of the basis functions and material types.
Effect of process parameters on the performance of PA6 products fabricated by rotational molding
Authors: Ma Yitao , Wang Xiulei , Tian Mingming , Zhang Liyan , Yang Weimin , Xie Pengcheng
Published: September 2023

In this study, a desktop‐class dual‐axis rotational molder was employed to mold PA6 products. Notably, the morphology of the plastic powder during the rotational molding process was examined through visualization techniques. The research also aimed to delineate the causes of wall thickness variation in the products, while proposing a process method to enhance the uniformity of wall thickness. The implementation of a two‐stage mold temperature setting method for the ends of the mold improved wall thickness uniformity of the products. Furthermore, the interrelationships between crystallinity, tensile strength, and impact strength of the products were explored by comparing different cooling rate conditions. Increasing the cooling rate resulted in a decrease in both crystallinity and tensile strength, while concurrently boosting the impact strength of the products.

Highlights

A desktop‐class, two‐axis rotational molding equipment is designed.

A method for visualizing the rotational molding process is conducted.

Mold temperature and rotational speed affect product wall thickness.

Two‐stage mold temperature improves wall thickness uniformity.

Mold cooling rate affects the tensile and impact strength of the product.
Preparation of functional nanoparticles of mPEG‐b‐P(DMA‐co‐HA) copolymers via polymerization‐induced thermal self‐assembly
Authors: Akar Irem , Pearce Amanda K. , Kumar C. M. Santosh , Ferguson Calum , O'Reilly Rachel K.
Published: September 2023

Self‐assembled polymeric nanoparticles have been of great interest for various biological applications such as drug delivery, catalysis, and biosensing. In this regard, polymerization‐induced self‐assembly (PISA) has been widely explored as a more efficient technique than conventional self‐assembly methods as it can be conducted in one pot and does not require harsh conditions. Recently, a method known as polymerization‐induced thermal self‐assembly (PITSA) has emerged, exploiting the inherent phase transition behavior of thermoresponsive polymers at a critical temperature point to generate thermoresponsive nanoparticles in situ. However, the narrow range of monomers suitable for PITSA limits the design of diverse thermoresponsive nanoparticles, and therefore this process has not yet been explored to its fullest capacity. In this study, we demonstrate the preparation of thermoresponsive nanoparticles based on hydrophilic N,N‐dimethyl acrylamide (DMA) and hydrophobic hexyl acrylate (HA) monomers. This is particularly interesting as these monomers produce non‐responsive homopolymers but display thermoresponsive behavior when copolymerized. The nanoparticles obtained were crosslinked to enable their characterization at room temperature, and further functionalized with a short synthetic antibacterial peptide (WR)3 to demonstrate proof‐of‐concept potential as antimicrobial agents. Overall, this work expands the library of monomers amenable to PITSA for the production of thermoresponsive nanoparticles, contributing to the design of new functional nanoparticles for therapeutic purposes.
When huskies bite back: A complex systems metaphor perspective on information technology project management
Authors: Jackson Stephen
Published: September 2023

Researchers have acknowledged the usefulness of metaphors to understand organizational phenomena. More than fancy linguistic ornaments, metaphors can provide a rich understanding of the situation under investigation; demonstrate how individuals think, feel and behave; and be used as a diagnostic tool to help analyse organizational problems. Notwithstanding the importance of metaphor analysis, how system thinking principles can be applied to understand the elicited nature of metaphor in the context of information technology (IT) project management practices remains to be explored in greater detail. Drawing on the field of applied linguistics, coupled with complexity theory, a complex systems metaphor perspective is put forward as a fresh lens to understand IT project management practices. This perspective is illustrated through a discourse analysis of a large IT project in the National Health Service (NHS) in England.
Transcriptome characteristics of epithelial cells from advanced non‐small cell lung cancer were revealed by single‐cell RNA sequencing
Authors: Qiu Peng , Chen Yutao , Dong Cheng , Xie Juanjuan , Wang Junwu
Published: September 2023

Background

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the prevalent malignancy worldwide. The aim is to explore differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with immune infiltration and survival time of LUAD patients, and predict transcriptional factors for shedding new light on molecular mechanisms and individual therapy of LUAD.

Method

ScRNA‐seq data of LUAD patients was downloaded from GSE148071 and analyzed by R packages. The clustering and protein–protein interaction network were constructed for screening DEGs. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) and GO enrichment analysis were performed in epithelial cell subgroups with high differentiation potential. Potential regulatory transcription factors were predicted.

Results

Sixteen epithelial cell types were required and top 20 genes were identified on cell subgroup Epi4 with the highest differentiation potential associated with poor prognosis of LUAD in PPI network. GSEA and GO annotation results showed that cell subgroup Epi4 was enriched in the biological processes of cell proliferation and energy metabolism, and positively regulated the function of cell proliferation. TPI1 was significantly highly expressed in LUAD samples (p < .0001). TPI1 demonstrated a negative correlation with the infiltration levels of CD8+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, B cells, and activated mast cells, whilst manifesting a positive correlation with the infiltration levels of resident mast cells, Th2 cells, and MDSC. Epi4 was regulated by transcription factors MXD3 and GATA4.

Conclusion

Overexpression of TPI1 was identified as a novel biomarker for LUAD, and potential regulatory transcription factors MXD3 and GATA4 regulated the proliferation of LUAD with the poor prognosis, which may serve as potential targets to suppress the proliferation of LUAD.
Glufosinate‐ammonium causes liver injury in zebrafish by blocking the Nrf2 pathway
Authors: Kou Yuhong , Chen Yongping , Feng Tongtong , Chen Luomeng , Wang Hui , Sun Ning , Zhao Shuping , Yang Tianyuan , Jiao Wenjing , Feng Guofeng , Fan Honggang , Zhao Yuan
Published: September 2023

Glufosinate‐ammonium (GLA) is a widely used herbicide, but less research has been done on its harmful effects on non‐target organisms, especially aquatic organisms. In this study, 600 adult zebrafish were exposed to different concentration of GLA (0, 1.25, 2.5, 5, 10, and 20 mg/L) for 7 days, and the livers were dissected on the eighth day to examine the changes in liver structure, function, oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and Nrf2 pathway, and finally to clarify the mechanism of GLA induced liver injury in zebrafish. The levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, reactive oxygen species, malondialdehyde, inflammatory factors (IL‐6 and TNF‐α), and caspase‐3 gradually increased, while the levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione, and glutathione peroxidase gradually decreased with the increase of GLA concentration. The Nrf2 pathway was activated at low concentrations (1.25–5 mg/L) and significantly inhibited at high concentrations (10 and 20 mg/L). These results suggested that GLA could cause oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in zebrafish liver. Therefore, GLA can cause liver injury in zebrafish, and at high concentrations, the inhibition of Nrf2 pathway is one of the important causes of liver injury.
Endometrial polyp in a spayed female dog
Authors: Lai Lik Hang , Jenkins Paul Laurence , Sumner Julia Peta , Marchevsky Andrew Malcolm
Published: September 2023

Endometrial polyps are rare benign uterine masses exclusively reported in geriatric, entire, female dogs or spayed female dogs with ovarian remnant syndrome. A 12‐year‐old, female, ovariohysterectomised cocker spaniel was presented for hyporexia, progressive muco‐haemorrhagic vulval discharge, and an ultrasonographically detected caudal abdominal mass. Thoracic and abdominal computed tomography revealed that the mass originated from the uterine stump, with no evidence of metastasis. Surgical excision of the mass was performed, and histopathology of the mass was consistent with an endometrial polyp. The dog was confirmed to be neutered based on the absence of ovarian remnant found on computed tomography and during surgery, and the negative results of both anti‐Mullerian hormone test and human chorionic gonadotropin stimulated progesterone test. The dog fully recovered with complete resolution of clinical signs at 2‐week, 6‐month and 18‐month rechecks. The presenting case highlights the first reported case of an endometrial polyp in a spayed female dog.
NLO QCD predictions for off-shell $$ t\overline{t}W $$ production in association with a light jet at the LHC
Authors: Bi Huan-Yu , Kraus Manfred , Reinartz Minos , Worek Malgorzata
Published: September 2023

Abstract

In view of the persisting tension between theoretical predictions and the LHC data for the pp → $$ t\overline{t}W $$
t

t
¯

W
± production process, we present the state-of-the-art full off-shell NLO QCD result for pp → $$ t\overline{t}W $$
t

t
¯

W
+j + X. We concentrate on the multi-lepton decay channel at the LHC with $$ \sqrt{s} $$

s

= 13 TeV. In our calculation off-shell top quarks and gauge bosons are described by Breit-Wigner propagators, furthermore, double-, single- as well as non-resonant top-quark contributions along with all interference effects are consistently incorporated at the matrix element level. We present results for both integrated and differential fiducial cross sections for various renormalisation and factorisation scale settings and different PDF sets. With a fairly inclusive choice of cuts and regardless of the scale and PDF choice, non-flat differential $$ \mathcal{K} $$
K
-factors are obtained for many observables that we have examined. Since from an experimental point of view, both processes pp → $$ t\overline{t}W $$
t

t
¯

W
±j + X and pp → $$ t\overline{t}W $$
t

t
¯

W
± + X consist of similar final states we investigate the effect of additional jet activity on the integrated and differential fiducial cross sections. For this purpose, the normalised differential distributions for pp → e+νeμ−$$ \overline{\nu} $$

ν
¯

μτ+ντ$$ b\overline{b} $$
b

b
¯

j + X and pp → e+νeμ−$$ \overline{\nu} $$

ν
¯

μτ+ντ$$ b\overline{b} $$
b

b
¯

+ X are compared. The theoretical results for the latter process are also recalculated.
Investigation of the scale dependence in the MSR and $$ \overline{\textrm{MS}} $$ top quark mass schemes for the $$ \textrm{t}\overline{\textrm{t}} $$ invariant mass differential cross section using LHC data
Authors: Mäkelä Toni , Hoang André H. , Lipka Katerina , Moch Sven-Olaf
Published: September 2023

Abstract

The computation of the single-differential top quark-antiquark pair ($$ \textrm{t}\overline{\textrm{t}} $$
t

t
¯

) production cross section at NLO in the fixed-order expansion is examined consistently using the MSR and $$ \overline{\textrm{MS}} $$

MS
¯

short-distance top quark mass schemes. A thorough investigation of the dependence of different regions of the $$ \textrm{t}\overline{\textrm{t}} $$
t

t
¯

invariant mass spectrum on the renormalization scales R and μm of the MSR mass $$ {m}_{\textrm{t}}^{\textrm{MSR}} $$

m
t
MSR

(R) and $$ \overline{\textrm{MS}} $$

MS
¯

mass $$ \overline{m} $$

m
¯

t(μm), respectively, is carried out. We demonstrate that a scale choice of R ~ 80 GeV is important for the stability of the cross-section predictions for the low $$ \textrm{t}\overline{\textrm{t}} $$
t

t
¯

invariant mass range, which is important for a reliable extraction of the top quark mass. Furthermore, a choice of semi-dynamical renormalization and factorization scales is preferred. These findings are expected to remain valid once non-relativistic quasi-bound state effects are included in the low invariant mass region.
Wheat (Triticum aestivum) chromosome 6D harbours the broad spectrum common bunt resistance gene Bt11
Authors: Lunzer Magdalena , Buerstmayr Maria , Grausgruber Heinrich , Müllner Almuth Elise , Fallbacher Iris , Buerstmayr Hermann
Published: September 2023

Key message

A major QTL on chromosome 6DL corresponding to bunt resistance gene Bt11 was identified in four mapping populations generated through crosses with Bt11-carriers PI 166910 and M822123.

Common bunt in wheat has witnessed a renaissance with the rise of organic agriculture that began in the 1980s. The abandonment of systemic fungicides in organic farming, together with a lack of resistant cultivars, has led to wide-spread problems due to common bunt infections. Knowledge about genetic sources for resistance is still scarce and only few of the known bunt resistance factors are currently used in breeding. We therefore aimed to map the resistance factor harboured by the Turkish landrace PI 166910, which is the resistance donor for the Bt11 bunt differential line. Four mapping populations (MPs) with 96–132 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) were phenotyped for common bunt resistance over 2, 3 or 4 years with one or two local bunt populations and genotyped with the 25K SNP array. A major bunt resistance locus on the distal end of chromosome 6D designated QBt.ifa-6DL was identified in all MPs and experiments. Additional QTL contributing to resistance were detected on chromosomes 4B, 1A, 1B, 2A and 7B. QBt.ifa-6DL mapped to a region overlapping with the Bt9-locus identified in previous studies, but results indicate that QBt.ifa-6DL is different from Bt9 and convincing evidence from haplotype comparisons suggests that it represents the Bt11 resistance allele. Markers for the distal region of chromosome 6D between 492.6 and 495.2 Mbp can be used to select for QBt.ifa-6DL. This resistance factor confers high and stable resistance against common bunt and should be integrated into organic and low-input wheat breeding programs.
Thiopental and decompressive craniectomy as last-tier ICP-treatments in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: is functional recovery within reach?
Authors: Björk Sofie , Hånell Anders , Ronne-Engström Elisabeth , Stenwall Anton , Velle Fartein , Lewén Anders , Enblad Per , Svedung Wettervik Teodor
Published: September 2023

The study aimed to investigate the indication and functional outcome after barbiturates and decompressive craniectomy (DC) as last-tier treatments for elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). This observational study included 891 aSAH patients treated at a single center between 2008 and 2018. Data on demography, admission status, radiology, ICP, clinical course, and outcome 1-year post-ictus were collected. Patients treated with thiopental (barbiturate) and DC were the main target group.

Thirty-nine patients (4%) were treated with thiopental alone and 52 (6%) with DC. These patients were younger and had a worse neurological status than those who did not require these treatments. Before thiopental, the median midline shift was 0 mm, whereas basal cisterns were compressed/obliterated in 66%. The median percentage of monitoring time with ICP > 20 mmHg immediately before treatment was 38%, which did not improve after 6 h of infusion. Before DC, the median midline shift was 10 mm, and the median percentage of monitoring time with ICP > 20 mmHg before DC was 56%, which both significantly improved postoperatively. At follow-up, 52% of the patients not given thiopental or operated with DC reached favorable outcome, whereas this occurred in 10% of the thiopental and DC patients.

In summary, 10% of the aSAH cohort required thiopental, DC, or both. Thiopental and DC are important integrated last-tier treatment options, but careful patient selection is needed due to the risk of saving many patients into a state of suffering.
Best practices for sign language technology research
Authors: Fox Neil , Woll Bencie , Cormier Kearsy
Published: September 2023

Research on sign language technology (SLT) has steadily increased in recent decades, and yet, common mistakes and pitfalls have significantly hindered progress in the field. The purpose of this paper is to examine some of the most prominent issues and suggest practical steps to overcome them, outlining the best practices to consider when conducting SLT research. These practices cluster around the five following issues: (1) knowledge of the specific sign language at the centre of the research and of sign languages more generally; (2) involving deaf people at the centre of research, including researchers who are themselves deaf; (3) motivations of the researcher and the relationship to the views of the sign language community; (4) what sign language data needs to be considered; (5) full recognition of the challenges posed by such research.
Different patterns of failure in two treatment regimens for primary central nervous system lymphoma, a retrospective analysis of 124 cases in Taiwan
Authors: Chuang Chin-Hsuan , Kuo Ming-Chung , Chang Hung , Wu Jin-Hou , Hung Yu-Shin , Ou Che-Wei , Lin Tung-Liang , Su Yi-Jiun , Ong Yuen-Chin , Shih Lee-Yung , Kao Hsiao-Wen
Published: September 2023

To explore prognostic factors and outcomes of primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) in Taiwan, 124 PCNSL-DLBCL patients (from 1995 to 2021) were retrospectively analyzed. Mainly, two treatment modalities including sandwich chemoradiotherapy and modified MATRix regimen were employed in these patients. Overall survival (OS) was determined by log-rank test and time-dependent Cox analysis. Median OS of all patients was 27.1 months. 47 (37.9%) patients who underwent sandwich chemoradiotherapy had a complete remission (CR) rate of 87.2%, median OS of 53.9 months, and progression free survival (PFS) of 42.9 months. 11 (8.9%) patients who underwent modified MATRix regimen had CR rate of 72.7%, median OS of 18.9, and PFS of 11.2 months. There are no significant OS differences between treatment groups or addition of Rituximab. Patients treated with the modified MATRix regimen experienced a higher early mortality rate followed by a survival plateau. IELSG low-risk group had significantly improved OS and PFS than IELSG intermediate- or high-risk group. In multivariant analysis, age > 60 years old and bilateral cerebral lesions are associated with significantly inferior OS. Sandwich chemoradiotherapy demonstrated better early survival and reduced treatment-related toxicity for PCNSL patients compared to the modified MATRix regimen. However, the long-term follow-up revealed a higher rate of treatment failure events in the sandwich chemoradiotherapy group. IELSG and MSKCC scores served as reliable risk assessment models. Incorporating bilateral cerebral lesions as a risk factor further improved risk evaluation.
Hybrides Leiten im Psychodrama
Authors: Gastauer Dirk , Hunger Mathias
Published: September 2023

Im Rahmen ihrer Ausbildung in der Psychodrama-Oberstufe haben die Autoren in der Zeit der Corona-Pandemie einige Erfahrungen sowohl im digitalen als auch hybriden Leiten gesammelt. Hierzu gehört, dass während eines Seminars in Präsenz auch digital zugeschaltete Teilnehmende eingebunden werden. In diesem Beitrag der Zeitschrift für Psychodrama und Soziometrie stellen sie diese Erfahrungen dar, gehen auf Probleme und Lösungsansätze ein und weisen auf offene Fragen hin.
Green synthesis and characterization of aluminum oxide nanoparticles using Phoenix dactylifera seed extract along with antimicrobial activity, phytotoxicity, and cytological effects on Vicia faba seeds
Authors: Saleh Ahmed K. , Shaban Abdelghany S. , Diab Mohamed A. , Debarnot Dominique , Elzaref Ahmed S.
Published: September 2023

The present study assessed the green synthesis of aluminum oxide nanoparticles (Al2O3-NPs) by using aluminum (Al) foil waste as an Al source and date palm seed extract as a reducing and stabilizing agent. Several methodologies were employed to investigate Al2O3-NPs, encompassing X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis. The UV–visible spectroscopy analysis revealed the presence of an absorption peak at a wavelength of 264 nm, providing evidence for the successful green synthesis of the Al2O3-NPs. The XRD analysis revealed that the average size of the Al2O3-NPs was 32 ± 2.57 nm and had a rhombohedral structure. The EDX facilitated the identification of the elemental composition of the sample, which was found to consist of 40.37% Al and 31.56% O, confirming the high purity of the Al2O3-NPs powder. Furthermore, it was noted that the Al2O3-NPs exhibited the greatest antibacterial efficacy against Candida albicans (21 ± 1.85 mm), but no discernible antimicrobial effect was recorded against Klebsiella pneumoniae at higher concentrations of Al2O3-NPs. No significant variation in the germination of faba bean seeds was observed upon treatment with Al2O3-NPs. The observed mitotic index in the treatment group was determined to be significantly lower compared to the control cells, based on the duration and dosage of Al2O3-NP exposure. In contrast, for micronuclei (MN) and the prevalence of chromosomal abnormalities, there is a noticeable upward trajectory in this phenomenon. Finally, Al2O3-NPs are employed in a variety of applications, such as biomedical and agriculture.
Host-derived growth factors drive ERK phosphorylation and MCL1 expression to promote osteosarcoma cell survival during metastatic lung colonization
Authors: McAloney Camille A. , Makkawi Rawan , Budhathoki Yogesh , Cannon Matthew V. , Franz Emily M. , Gross Amy C. , Cam Maren , Vetter Tatyana A. , Duhen Rebekka , Davies Alexander E. , Roberts Ryan D.
Published: September 2023

Purpose

For patients with osteosarcoma, disease-related mortality most often results from lung metastasis—a phenomenon shared with many solid tumors. While established metastatic lesions behave aggressively, very few of the tumor cells that reach the lung will survive. By identifying mechanisms that facilitate survival of disseminated tumor cells, we can develop therapeutic strategies that prevent and treat metastasis.

Methods

We analyzed single cell RNA-sequencing (scRNAseq) data from murine metastasis-bearing lungs to interrogate changes in both host and tumor cells during colonization. We used these data to elucidate pathways that become activated in cells that survive dissemination and identify candidate host-derived signals that drive activation. We validated these findings through live cell reporter systems, immunocytochemistry, and fluorescent immunohistochemistry. We then validated the functional relevance of key candidates using pharmacologic inhibition in models of metastatic osteosarcoma.

Results

Expression patterns suggest that the MAPK pathway is significantly elevated in early and established metastases. MAPK activity correlates with expression of anti-apoptotic genes, especially MCL1. Niche cells produce growth factors that increase ERK phosphorylation and MCL1 expression in tumor cells. Both early and established metastases are vulnerable to MCL1 inhibition, but not MEK inhibition in vivo. Combining MCL1 inhibition with chemotherapy both prevented colonization and eliminated established metastases in murine models of osteosarcoma.

Conclusion

Niche-derived growth factors drive MAPK activity and MCL1 expression in osteosarcoma, promoting metastatic colonization. Although later metastases produce less MCL1, they remain dependent on it. MCL1 is a promising target for clinical trials in both human and canine patients.
Information flow-based fuzzy cognitive maps with enhanced interpretability
Authors: Tyrovolas Marios , Liang X. San , Stylios Chrysostomos
Published: September 2023

Fuzzy Cognitive Maps (FCMs) are a graph-based methodology successfully applied for knowledge representation of complex systems modelled through an interactive structure of nodes connected with causal relationships. Due to their flexibility and inherent interpretability, FCMs have been used in various modelling and prediction tasks to support human decisions. However, a notable limitation of FCMs is their susceptibility to inadvertently capturing spurious correlations from data, undermining their prediction accuracy and interpretability. In addressing this challenge, our primary contribution is the introduction of a novel framework for constructing FCMs using the Liang-Kleeman Information Flow (L-K IF) analysis, a quantitative causality analysis rigorously derived from first principles. The novelty of the proposed approach lies in the identification of actual causal relationships from the data using an automatic causal search algorithm. These relationships are subsequently imposed as constraints in the FCM learning procedure to rule out spurious correlations and improve the aggregate predictive and explanatory power of the model. Numerical simulations validate the superiority of our method against state-of-the-art FCM-based models, thereby bolstering the reliability, accuracy, and interpretability of FCMs.
Closed-Form Wave Dispersion Relationships for Ordinary State-Based Peridynamics
Authors: Wang Bingquan , Oterkus Selda , Oterkus Erkan
Published: September 2023

Peridynamics (PD) is a new continuum mechanics formulation introduced to overcome limitations of classical continuum mechanics (CCM). This is mainly achieved by using integro-differential equations rather than partial differential equations. Another important difference of PD is its nonlocal nature with respect to local characteristic of CCM. Moreover, it has a length scale parameter, horizon, defining the range of nonlocal interactions between material points. This nonclassical behaviour also shows itself for dispersion relationships. As opposed to linear dispersion relationships for CCM, PD dispersion relationships are non-linear similar to the observed in experiments. In this study, closed-form dispersion relationships are provided for ordinary state-based peridynamics which is one of the most common PD formulations. Finally, derived closed-form solutions are used to demonstrate the dispersion relationships for various material systems including copper, gold, silver and platinum.