bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enabling Timely Access to Medical Images and Information for Better Patient Treatment
Authors: Roberts Eleanor
Published: July 2023

Medical images have progressed from X-rays on film to digital capture.
Sharing images to departments and hospitals remotely from the place of capture
has, over the years, been via description only, through an image print-out or by
‘burning’ them onto a compact disk (CD) or digital versatile disc (DVD). More
recently, Internet-linked point-to-point virtual private networks (VPN) mean that
departments and hospitals that have access to such systems can request and
send images via these links. Cloud-based systems have been replacing these in
some institutions, with images held both locally and uploaded to a remote centre.
An update to these systems is being trialled in Austria by Andreas Nuener and
Christian Stark, based at the University Hospital, Innsbruck, who here discuss
the development of such. Utilising a Siemens Healthineers (Erlanger, Germany)
eHealth Solutions technology platform, they are planning the automatic registration
(provision) of clinical images, such as from sonography, computed radiography, MRI,
or CT, in Austria’s nationwide electronic health record (EHR) system, Elektronische
Gesundheitsakte (ELGA). A small trial of this system demonstrated that any eligible
healthcare professional who needs access to the images can do so instantly. Astrid
Grams, Medical University of Innsbruck, Austria, illustrated the use of this system via
the case scenario of a patient who has had an ischaemic stroke and is being treated
at a remote hospital, with the treating physician querying whether or not they need
to be transferred to the University Hospital, Innsbruck, for more specialist treatment.
TINGKAT PROFITABILITAS, LEVERAGE, DAN KEBIJAKAN HUTANG TERHADAP NILAI PERUSAHAAN DENGAN KEBIJAKAN DEVIDEN SEBAGAI VARIABEL INTERVENING (SUBSEKTOR MAKANAN & MINUMAN )
Authors: Wulandari Christina Dewi , Damayanti Tri , Anggraini Aulia Rizki
Published: July 2023

Sektor industri manufaktur merupakan tumpuan utama terhadap pertumbuhan ekonomi di Indonesia, menurunnya nilai perusahaan pada sector pertumbuhan ekonomi industri manufaktur akan berpengaruh besar terhadap perekonomian di indonesia, maka dari itu perusahaan dituntut untuk meningkatkan nilai perusahaan agar menarik minat investor Penelitian ini dilakukan untuk menganalisis pengaruh tingkat Profitabilitas, Leverage, dan kebijkan hutang terhadap nilai perusahaan  dengan kebijakan deviden sebagai variabel Intervening. Objek pada penelitian ini adalah perusahaan manufaktur sektor industri barang konsumsi dengan mengunakan teknik pengambilan sampel nonprobability sampling (non-random sampling) dan metode purposive sampling. Teknik analisis yang digunakan adalah regresi linear berganda dan analisis jalur. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian, diperoleh hasil bahwa Probabilitas, leverage tidak berpengaruh terhadap kebijakan deviden. Sementara kebijakan hutang berpengaruh terhadap kebijakan deviden. Leverage, kebijakan hutang tidak berpengaruh terhadap nilai perusahaan. Sementara tingkat profitabilitas berpengaruh terhadap nilai perusahaan. kebijakan deviden tidak berpengaruh terhadap nilai perusahaan Kebijakan deviden  tidak dapat memediasi leverage dan kebijakan hutang terhadap nilai perusahaan. Sementara kebijakan deviden dapat memediasi hubungan antara tingkat profitabilitas terhadap nilai perusahaan.
Pengaruh Gaya Hidup, WOM (Word Of Mouth), Dan Brand Ambassador Terhadap Keputusan Pembelian Natasha Skincare Di Semarang
Authors: Novandalina Arini , Budiyono Rokhmad , Ernawati Fidyah Yuli
Published: July 2023

Banyaknya perusahaan yang bergerak dalam perawatan dan kesehatan kulit (skin care) dengan berbagai merek berdampak pada berbagai alternatif pilihan bagi konsumen untuk memilih salah satu diantaranya, salah satunya Natasha Skincare. Natasha Skin Care mempunyai beberapa kelebihan seperti tempat perawatan yang nyaman, layanan konsultasi gratis dan ditangani oleh dokter berpengalaman sehingga dapat mempengaruhi keputusan pembelian konsumen. Keputusan pembelian adalah kegiatan yang dipengaruhi berbagai variabel dalam memutuskan tindakan untuk memilih produk. Banyak faktor dapat mempengaruhi keputusan pembelian Natasha Skin Care diantaranya gaya hidup, WOM (word of mouth) dan brand ambassador. Penelitian ini bertujuan mengetahui pengaruh gaya hidup, WOM (word of mouth) dan brand ambassador terhadap keputusan pembelian Natasha Skin Care di Semarang

Populasi penelitian ini adalah konsumen dan teman yang melakukan perawatan atau  pembelian produk  Natasha Skin Care, di Semarang yang jumlahnya tidak dapat diketahui. Sampel yang digunakan sebanyak 100 konsumen. Data penelitian ini diperoleh dengan membagikan kuesioner. Data dioleh dengan menggunakan analisis regresi berganda, uji hipotesis (uji t dan uji F) dan koefisien determinasi (R2).

Hasil hipotesis 1 yang menyatakan ada pengaruh antara gaya hidup terhadap keputusan pembelian diterima (t hitung 3,782 dengan sig. sebesar 0,000 < 0,05). Hasil hipotesis 2 yang menyatakan ada pengaruh antara WOM terhadap keputusan pembelian diterima (t hitung 3,271 dengan sig. sebesar 0,001 < 0,05). Hasil hipotesis 3yang menyatakan ada pengaruh antara brand ambassador terhadap keputusan pembelian diterima (t hitung 2,958 dengan sig. sebesar 0,004 < 0,05).

Kesimpulan dari penelitian ini adalah gaya hidup, WOM dan Brand Ambassador berpengaruh terhadap keputusan pembelian konsumen di Natasha Skin Care. Sedangkan saran dalam penelitian ini adalah agar konsumen berkeingan untuk terus melakukan perawatan berulang maka sebaiknya Natasha Skin Care menawarkan berbagai paket perawatan kulit dengan harga yang lebih terjangkau atau memberi diskon harga apabila melakukan perawatan secara paket, sehingga pelanggan akan mendapatkan harga lebih murah apabila melakukan perawatan secara berulang di Natasha Skin Care.
DASS App: Integrating data from non-animal test methods to predict skin sensitization hazard and potency
Authors: To Kimberly , Strickland Judy , Reinke Emily , Borrel Alexandre , Truax Jim , Maldonado Heather , Allen Dave , Kleinstreuer Nicole
Published: July 2023

Chemically induced skin sensitization is a common occupational and public health issue. Regulatory authorities require an assessment of potential to cause skin sensitization for many chemical products. Defined approaches for skin sensitization (DASS) can identify potential chemical skin sensitizers without using animal tests. While several DASS are internationally accepted by regulatory agencies, the data interpretation procedures vary in logical complexity, and manual application can be time-consuming or prone to error. We developed the DASS App, an open-source web application, to facilitate user application of these regulatory testing strategies without the need for software downloads or computational expertise. The web application is freely available at https://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/go/952311. All scripts are available on GitHub (https://github.com/NIEHS/DASS).
Desastre ambiental em Petrópolis-RJ: um estudo de caso do morro da oficina
Authors: Moreira Mateus de Brito , Denardi Ana Maria
Published: July 2023

Este trabalho se propõe, sob a ótica da sustentabilidade urbana, apresentar um estudo de caso a respeito do desastre ambiental ocorrido na região serrana do estado do Rio de Janeiro, mais especificamente na cidade de Petrópolis no fim da tarde do dia 15 de fevereiro de 2022. Segundo a defesa civil, foram registradas 234 mortes e três desaparecimentos de pessoas em mais de 170 pontos de deslizamentos no munícipio, sendo um dos mais críticos o Morro da Oficina. Segundo a prefeitura, nesse local houveram mais desabrigados em relação a outros pontos da cidade, totalizando aproximadamente 80 casas soterradas e 93 vítimas fatais. Diante de tal cenário, o trabalho aqui proposto busca entender as principais causas do desastre no Morro da Oficina por meio de uma análise econômica, ambiental e social seguindo o Triple Bottom Line, ou em português o “tripé da sustentabilidade”. Esse conceito consiste na união entre o crescimento econômico, proteção ao meio ambiente e igualdade social. Para tal análise foi utilizado uma metodologia exploratória descritiva, fundamentada em bibliografias, laudos técnicos e noticiários. Como resultado buscou-se diagnosticar os meios e as ações tomadas por parte do poder público para evitar futuras tragédias ambientais em regiões de risco em Petrópolis também utilizar essa metodologia como base para estudos mais aprofundados em outras regiões serranas do Brasil com perfis urbanos semelhantes.
Light along curves: photonic shaping tools
Authors: Flamm Daniel , Hellstern Julian , Kaiser Myriam , Kahmann Max , Kleiner Jonas , Tillkorn Christoph
Published: July 2023

A structured light concept is reported enabling to distribute a large number of focus copies at arbitrary positions in a working volume. Applying this holographic 3D-beam splitter concept to ultrashort laser pulses allows to deposit energy along accelerating trajectories in the volume of transparent materials. Based on the entirety of the volume modifications created in this way, the material can be separated, for example, to create chamfered glass edges. These photonic tools impress with enormous versatility, which enable equally diverse application strategies ranging from cutting and welding to data storing.
Digital staining facilitates biomedical microscopy
Authors: Fanous Michael John , Pillar Nir , Ozcan Aydogan
Published: July 2023

Traditional staining of biological specimens for microscopic imaging entails time-consuming, laborious, and costly procedures, in addition to producing inconsistent labeling and causing irreversible sample damage. In recent years, computational “virtual” staining using deep learning techniques has evolved into a robust and comprehensive application for streamlining the staining process without typical histochemical staining-related drawbacks. Such virtual staining techniques can also be combined with neural networks designed to correct various microscopy aberrations, such as out-of-focus or motion blur artifacts, and improve upon diffracted-limited resolution. Here, we highlight how such methods lead to a host of new opportunities that can significantly improve both sample preparation and imaging in biomedical microscopy.
Integrative modeling of hemodynamic changes and perfusion impairment in coronary microvascular disease
Authors: Colombo Monika , Chaudhry Palak , Oberholzer Yvonne , deMello Andrew J.
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Coronary microvascular disease is one of the responsible factors for cardiac perfusion impairment. Due to diagnostic and treatment challenges, this pathology (characterized by alterations to microvasculature local hemodynamics) represents a significant yet unsolved clinical problem.

Methods: Due to the poor understanding of the onset and progression of this disease, we propose a new and noninvasive strategy to quantify in-vivo hemodynamic changes occurring in the microvasculature. Specifically, we here present a conceptual workflow that combines both in-vitro and in-silico modelling for the analysis of the hemodynamic alterations in the microvasculature.

Results: First, we demonstrate a hybrid additive manufacturing process to fabricate circular cross-section, biocompatible fluidic networks in polytetrafluoroethylene. We then use these microfluidic devices and computational fluid dynamics to simulate different degrees of perfusion impairment.

Discussion: Ultimately, we show that the developed workflow defines a robust platform for the multiscale analysis of multifactorial events occurring in coronary microvascular disease.
A review of graphical user interfaces of OpenSees software framework
Authors: Shabani Amirhosein
Published: July 2023

Seismic vulnerability assessment is crucial for evaluating the resilience of structures. OpenSees, an open-access and versatile tool, plays a pivotal role in accurately simulating the complex behavior of structures subjected to seismic loads. However, lacking a built-in graphical user interface (GUI) is one of the limitations of OpenSees that can hinder usability and accessibility. Moreover, users must rely on command-line inputs and scripts for interaction, potentially limiting its adoption by non-programmers. To address this, several GUIs were designed as pre- and post-processor for OpenSees. In this study, 15 GUIs were categorized as open access or commercial. The functionalities and features of the GUIs, such as open-source nature, three-dimensional (3D) modeling and visualization capabilities, automation of incremental dynamic analysis (IDA), and simplification of soil-structure interaction (SSI) modeling, were examined. Note that certain GUIs were introduced with a focus on modeling and analysis of specific structures that were reviewed in this study. This mini-review aims to guide OpenSees users in choosing an appropriate GUI for their projects and support developers in improving existing GUI functionality or creating advanced GUIs that comprehensively cater to users’ needs.
Wellbeing integrated learning design framework: a multi-layered approach to facilitating wellbeing education through learning design and educational practice
Authors: Colla Rachel H. , Mossman Lara H.
Published: July 2023

The interest in wellbeing education has risen dramatically as we emerge from a global pandemic and examine what is needed to address the lingering impacts in education. Of course, the need for wellbeing education was apparent long before this, driven by a need to mitigate the growing mental health challenges faced by our youth. Indeed, there is a substantial body of evidence for the impact of such education on students in primary through to tertiary settings. However, little is known about how we are “educating the educators” to facilitate wellbeing through their curriculum and educational practices. This goes beyond the topics or content of wellbeing education to focus more on how we create enabling environments for wellbeing to emerge in our educational practices. This article proposes a Wellbeing Integrated Learning Design (WILD) Framework to address this gap. We outline the central tenets of the WILD framework, including the underpinning theoretical principles and systems approach that guided the development. Practical examples are provided to demonstrate how the framework can be applied in preparing experienced educators to build enabling environments in their own context. We reflect on the insights gained in trialing the approach in an education faculty in a large Australian university and explore the opportunities to refine the framework further to support its replication in other educational settings.
Pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and safety of prandial oral insulin (N11005) in healthy subjects
Authors: Pan Qi , Wang Xiaoxia , Li Wenjia , Chen Xiaofeng , Zhuang Yulei , Zhou Qinghong , Huang Yuhui , Zhou Yijie , Lan Li , Wang Zhijie , Wang Wenjia , Hong Juan , Hao Wei-Hua , Yang Yu-Tsai , Guo Lixin
Published: July 2023

Aims

To verify whether the oral insulin N11005 is administered as a prandial insulin by assessing the pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics (PD), and safety profiles of N11005 with a short-acting biosynthetic human insulin (Novolin R) as reference.

Methods

This was a randomized, open-label, single-dose, crossover hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp study in healthy Chinese male subjects. A total of 12 subjects were enrolled in the test (T) group (N11005, 300 IU, p.o.) and the reference (R) group (Novolin R, 0.1 IU/Kg, i.h.) with a washout period of 14 days. All subjects were administered on the same day of the clamp study. Glucose Infusion Rates (GIR), serum insulin, and C-peptide concentration were determined during every 8-hour clamp cycle. Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT04975022.

Results

After administration, the ratios of mean serum C-peptide concentration to baseline concentration in both T and R groups were lower than 50%, which confirmed the stability of the clamp platform. T group (N11005) showed a more rapid onset of action (tGIR10%max≈11 min) and a comparable duration of action to the R group, which was basically in line with the characteristics of prandial insulins. No adverse events (AEs) occurred throughout the study, which demonstrated that N11005 and Novolin R are safe and well-tolerated.

Conclusions

The PD profiles of the single-dose N11005 in the human body are similar to those of prandial insulins, with an excellent safety profile.

Clinical trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov, identifier NCT04975022.
Age-specific association between thyroid autoimmunity and hypothyroidism in Chinese adults aged over 65 years: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhang Mengjie , Ni Wenjing , Zhang Lina , Fan Kuanlu , Sun Yu , Liu Chao , Xu Shuhang
Published: July 2023

Background

The correlation between thyroid autoimmune (TAI) disease and hypothyroidism in the elderly of different ages remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the epidemiological characteristics of hypothyroidism, including subclinical hypothyroidism (Shypo) and overt hypothyroidism (Ohypo) in those aged ≥65 years from iodine-adequate areas and reveal the correlation between TAI and hypothyroidism in the elderly of different ages.

Methods

It was a cross-sectional study involving 2,443 subjects aged ≥65 years from two iodine-adequate areas in China by cluster sampling. They were assigned to the 65–69-, 70–79-, and ≥80-year-old age group. All subjects were surveyed by questionnaires and received physical examinations, laboratory testing, and thyroid ultrasound. Epidemiological characteristics of thyroid diseases in the elderly were compared among the three groups. Risk factors for hypothyroidism were predicted by binary logistic regression analysis.

Results

The median urinary iodine level was 238.70 (197.00, 273.70) μg/L. Thyroid peroxidase antibody or thyroglobulin antibody positivity (11.87%) and Shypo (9.13%) were common in the elderly. The prevalence of hypothyroidism in the elderly increases with age. TAI was a risk factor for Shypo (OR, 1.94; 95% CI, 1.35, 2.80; p < 0.01) and Ohypo (OR, 7.64; 95% CI, 3.40, 17.19; p < 0.01) in elderly Chinese. There was an age-specific correlation between TAI and hypothyroidism in the elderly. However, a significant correlation was not identified between TAI and hypothyroidism in ≥80-year-old age group (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Hypothyroidism, particularly Shypo, is common in the elderly from iodine-adequate areas in China. TAI serves as a risk factor for hypothyroidism in the elderly, with an age-specific correlation with hypothyroidism.
Modeling red deer functional connectivity at a regional scale in a human-dominated landscape
Authors: Urbina Loreto , Fischer Claude , Ray Nicolas , Lehmann Anthony
Published: July 2023

Ecological connectivity is a key attribute of landscapes and indicates how landscapes facilitate or impede movement. It is an essential criterion to consider in the design of green infrastructures (GIs) when landscape planners and managers deal with population viability, which in part depends on the movement capacities of organisms. Our goal is to inform about the conservation value of land parcels to maintain or enhance connectivity. For this, we developed a red deer functional connectivity model at a regional scale. We focused our study on this large mammal species inhabiting the Greater Geneva agglomeration between Switzerland and France. Our study site is dominated by forested mountains and lowlands, which are highly fragmented by human infrastructures and agricultural lands. We used GPS location data from 15 red deer to parameterize the habitat resistances with a multivariate analysis. To predict connectivity at the regional scale, we used local expert knowledge to design a graph-based landscape. Then, we used electric circuit theory with Circuitscape software to detect pinch points and map corridors, using the set of resistances parameterized with experimental data and the putative core areas and links identified with the help of expert knowledge. We obtained a map that highlights suitable regional habitat patches and corridors or connectivity pinch points potentially used by red deer between the mountains and the lowlands, ratifying the importance of the transfrontier collaboration while implementing the GI. The obtained results are used to assist landscape managers and planners in their effort to include functional connectivity in the prioritization of the GI across the region.
Ecological uncertainty and antipredator behaviour: an integrative perspective
Authors: Brown Grant E. , Godin Jean-Guy J.
Published: July 2023

Due to its unforgiving nature, predation pressure exerts strong selection pressure on the behaviour of prey animals. As a result, prey are forced to balance the conflicting demands of successfully detecting and avoiding predators and the need to engage in other fitness-related activities such as foraging, mating and social behaviour. Here, we provide an overview of the role that individual predator avoidance decisions plays in constraining behavioural phenotypes and how past experience with risks shapes current (and future) trade-offs, physiological and life history investments. Critically, access to reliable risk assessment information allows prey to respond to spatially and temporally variable predation risks. Uncertainty of predation risks is expected to limit the ability of prey to make short- and longer-term adjustments responses to predation threats, potentially increasing the indirect costs of predation. We describe a ‘landscape of information’ in which prey rely on publicly available risk assessment information to reduce the uncertainty of predation risks associated with variable threats and the potential impact of natural and anthropogenic environmental factors which may limit information availability. Despite a long tradition of research into the antipredator trade-offs made by prey animals, there remain a number of important unanswered questions.
Study on the efficiency evolution trend of coordinated development of the human–earth system in minority areas of Yunnan, China
Authors: Tai Lingjuan , Lu Fen , Huang Lin , Tian Furong , Yang Yun
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Improving the development efficiency of human–earth systems is a practical requirement for achieving high-quality regional development.

Methods

The article designs a data envelopment analysis (DEA) model under the constraints of coordinated development degree from the perspective of the interaction of natural, economic and social systems to evaluate the development efficiency of human–earth systems and uses GA-BP neural network model for the prediction of the development efficiency of the human–earth system of each geographical unit from 2018 to 2025 based on the panel data of the 8 ethnic autonomous prefectures in Yunnan Province form 1995 to 2017.

Results

The study found that from 1995 to 2017, the coordination degree and the coordinated development degree of the human–earth system in Yunnan minority areas were on the rise, but mainly manifested in the coordination of low development degree, and the average comprehensive efficiency value of input and output showed a downward trend. The prediction results for 2018–2025 showed that the human–earth system in Yunnan minority areas will be at a low efficient coordinated development level, and the coordinated development degree will show a downward trend. The development degree of natural subsystems in many ethnic minority areas showed negative growth and was negatively correlated with the development degree of economic and social subsystems. In 2025, except Honghe and Banna, the other six regions will be inefficient regions. Among these six inefficient regions, only Wenshan has input redundancy in the natural subsystem, but the phenomenon of input redundancy in the economic subsystem and insufficient output in the natural subsystem is common, indicating that industrial pollution has been controlled to a certain extent in most regions, but the economic investment mode and resource recycling efficiency need to be optimized and improved.

Discussion

Our results could enrich the content of human–earth system characteristics in typical regions, and also provide theoretical support for regional coordinated development in China.
Epigenomics: a new tool for the generation of climate resilient grapevines
Authors: Tan Jia W. , Rodríguez López Carlos M.
Published: July 2023

Climate change is expected to increase the occurrence of extreme environmental conditions. Viticulture, as agriculture in general, is highly dependent on climatic conditions, not only for yield but also for fruit quality, which is the most important factor affecting produce value at the farm-gate. This demands the development of novel plant breeding techniques that will lead to the accelerated production of more resilient grape varieties, as conventional breeding programs for perennials are often prolonged. Recent research has suggested that environmental conditions can activate a memory of stress that could result in a primed response to subsequent stress events. This is a process capable of increasing plant’s resilience to abiotic stimuli, allowing plants to better adapt to extreme environmental conditions. While the effect of priming has been observed in many plants, the underlying mechanisms are puzzling and seldom studied in perennial crops. A large body of research has been developed in the last decade linking response to stress, stress priming, and memory of stress with epigenetic mechanisms. This understanding of plant epigenetics has opened the door to the application of epigenetics to crop improvement, such as the use of epigenetic breeding for the generation of more resilient crops. Perennial crop agriculture in general, and viticulture in particular, would benefit from more in-depth knowledge on epigenetic memory of stress.
Integrative multi-omics analyses unravel the immunological implication and prognostic significance of CXCL12 in breast cancer
Authors: Gao Zhi-Jie , Fang Zhou , Yuan Jing-Ping , Sun Sheng-Rong , Li Bei
Published: July 2023

Background

CXCL12 is a vital factor in physiological and pathological processes, by inducing migration of multiple cells. We aimed to comprehensively detect the role of CXCL12 in breast cancer, and explore novel CXCL12-related biomarkers through integrative multi-omics analyses to build a powerful prognostic model for breast cancer patients.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry analysis of the tissue microarray was performed to evaluate the correlation between CXCL12 expression levels and breast cancer patient outcomes. Combined single-nucleus and spatial transcriptomics data was used to uncover the expression distribution of CXCL12 in breast cancer microenvironment. CXCL12-related genes were identified by WGCNA analysis. Univariate Cox and LASSO regression analyses were then conducted to screen prognostic genes from above CXCL12-related genes, followed by the construction of the CXCL12-related prognostic signature, identification of risk groups, and external validation of the prognostic signature. Analyses of biological function, mutation landscape, immune checkpoint genes and immune cells, were performed to further reveal the differences between high/low-risk groups. Paired single-cell RNA-seq and bulk RNA-seq were analyzed to further disclose the association between the risk score and the complex tumor immune microenvironment. To screen potential therapeutic agents for breast cancer patients, analyses of gene-drug correlation and sensitivity to immunotherapy were conducted.

Results

High expression of CXCL12 was linked with a prolonged survival in breast cancer. A total of 402 genes were identified by WGCNA analysis and 11 genes, covering VAT1L, TMEM92, SDC1, RORB, PCSK9, NRN1, NACAD, JPH3, GJA1, BMP8B and ADAMTS2, were screened as the candidate prognostic genes. Next, the prognostic signature was built and validated using these genes to predict the outcomes of breast cancers. The high-risk group patients exhibited significantly inferior prognoses. The combination of the risk score and tumor mutational burden (TMB) had remarkably improved performance in predicting patient outcomes. Besides, high-risk group patients showed higher infiltration of M2-like macrophages. Finally, several potential anticancer drugs were identified. The high-risk group patients were more sensitive to immunotherapy but resistant to docetaxel.

Conclusions

CXCL12 has important immunological implication and prognostic significance in breast cancer. The CXCL12-related prognostic model could well predict the prognosis and treatment response of breast cancers.
Microglial crosstalk with astrocytes and immune cells in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Calafatti Matteo , Cocozza Germana , Limatola Cristina , Garofalo Stefano
Published: July 2023

In recent years, biomedical research efforts aimed to unravel the mechanisms involved in motor neuron death that occurs in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). While the main causes of disease progression were first sought in the motor neurons, more recent studies highlight the gliocentric theory demonstrating the pivotal role of microglia and astrocyte, but also of infiltrating immune cells, in the pathological processes that take place in the central nervous system microenvironment. From this point of view, microglia-astrocytes-lymphocytes crosstalk is fundamental to shape the microenvironment toward a pro-inflammatory one, enhancing neuronal damage. In this review, we dissect the current state-of-the-art knowledge of the microglial dialogue with other cell populations as one of the principal hallmarks of ALS progression. Particularly, we deeply investigate the microglia crosstalk with astrocytes and immune cells reporting in vitro and in vivo studies related to ALS mouse models and human patients. At last, we highlight the current experimental therapeutic approaches that aim to modulate microglial phenotype to revert the microenvironment, thus counteracting ALS progression.
Targeting Th17 cells: a promising strategy to treat oral mucosal inflammatory diseases
Authors: Wang Ying , Xue Ningning , Wang Ziyuan , Zeng Xin , Ji Ning , Chen Qianming
Published: July 2023

With the improved quality of life, oral health is under increased pressure. Numerous common oral mucosal diseases, such as oral lichen planus(OLP) and gingivitis, are related to the destruction of the oral immune barrier. The cytokines secreted by T-helper 17 (Th17) cells are essential for maintaining oral immune homeostasis and play essential roles in immune surveillance. When antigens stimulate the epithelium, Th17 cells expand, differentiate, and generate inflammatory factors to recruit other lymphocytes, such as neutrophils, to clear the infection, which helps to maintain the integrity of the epithelial barrier. In contrast, excessive Th17/IL-17 axis reactions may cause autoimmune damage. Therefore, an in-depth understanding of the role of Th17 cells in oral mucosa may provide prospects for treating oral mucosal diseases. We reviewed the role of Th17 cells in various oral and skin mucosal systemic diseases with oral characteristics, and based on the findings of these reports, we emphasize that Th17 cellular response may be a critical factor in inflammatory diseases of the oral mucosa. In addition, we should pay attention to the role and relationship of “pathogenic Th17” and “non-pathogenic Th17” in oral mucosal diseases. We hope to provide a reference for Th17 cells as a potential therapeutic target for treating oral mucosal inflammatory disorders in the future.
Evaluation of the CALIPSO Lidar-observed particulate backscattering coefficient on different spatiotemporal matchup scales
Authors: Sun Miao , Chen Peng , Zhang Zhenhua , Zhong Chunyi , Xie Congshuang , Pan Delu
Published: July 2023

The satellite lidar-derived ocean particulate backscattering coefficient (bbp) has rarely been validated globally within situobservations, and we need to understand how well the satellite CALIPSO lidar bbpapproach performs. Whether lidar bbpperforms better in terms of observation accuracy compared to passive ocean color remote sensing has yet to be evaluated for detailed validation. With the continued deployment of the BGC-Argo float array in the global open ocean in recent years, data have accumulated with a total of 42,932 particulate backscattering coefficients (bbp) from 2010 to 2017, allowing for a finer spatial and temporal scale evaluation of the performance of the CALIPSO lidar-observed bbp. We evaluated the performance of CALIPSO-retrieved bbpproducts using the data detected by the BGC-Argo floats at 12 spatiotemporal matchup scales and discussed the differences in product performance at various interannual, seasonal, and spatial scales. We compare lidar, float, and ocean color bbpat the same locations and times and find that lidar bbpoutperforms ocean color data. We also analyzed the key conversion factor β(π)/bbpat different spatial and temporal scales and found that there was a seasonal difference in the optimal conversion factor.
Entomopathogen-based biopesticides: insights into unraveling their potential in insect pest management
Authors: Irsad  , Shahid Mohammad , Haq Ejazul , Mohamed Abdullah , Rizvi Parvez Qamar , Kolanthasamy Elango
Published: July 2023

Global food security is a critical challenge to fulfill the demands of an exponentially growing population. To date, growers rely on chemicals; the broad-spectrum application of synthetic molecules leads to environmental contamination, resistance development, residual toxicity, pest resurgence, and a detrimental effect on human health and cattle. Crop production needs to be improved considering environmental and human health concerns to ensure food security. Furthermore, economically important crops are prone to attack by insect pests, causing considerable yield losses. Microbes are an eco-friendly, versatile alternative, and a potential candidate for combatting destructive pests below the economic injury level and improving the plant's health and productivity. Several microbial pathogens, including parasites, predators, parasitoids, pollinators, and many beneficial microorganisms, possess toxic properties against target organisms but do not cause harm to the non-target organisms. Entomopathogens (ENMs) have great potential for pest suppression due to their remarkable properties. Bacteria are host-specific, but fungi have a broader host range and can be significantly affected by both soil-dwelling and terrestrial insect pests. Virulent pathogens cause mortality in target insect pests known as ENMs and can penetrate through natural openings, ingestions, and integuments to cause a possible effect on target insect pests. The objective of using ENMs is to sustain productivity, improve environmental health, reduce pesticides, and conserve natural resources. Moreover, research is ongoing to discover other possible aspects, especially exploring potential ENMs. Therefore, there is a need for identification, isolation, and bioformulation to overcome the existing issues. This study is mainly focused on the status of bio-formulations, pathogenicity, their mode of action, and the potential application of different types of microbial formulations for sustainable pest management.
Distinctive features of the central synaptic organization of Drosophila larval proprioceptors
Authors: Greaney Marie R. , Wreden Chris C. , Heckscher Ellie S.
Published: July 2023

Proprioceptive feedback is critically needed for locomotor control, but how this information is incorporated into central proprioceptive processing circuits remains poorly understood. Circuit organization emerges from the spatial distribution of synaptic connections between neurons. This distribution is difficult to discern in model systems where only a few cells can be probed simultaneously. Therefore, we turned to a relatively simple and accessible nervous system to ask: how are proprioceptors’ input and output synapses organized in space, and what principles underlie this organization? Using the Drosophila larval connectome, we generated a map of the input and output synapses of 34 proprioceptors in several adjacent body segments (5–6 left-right pairs per segment). We characterized the spatial organization of these synapses, and compared this organization to that of other somatosensory neurons’ synapses. We found three distinguishing features of larval proprioceptor synapses: (1) Generally, individual proprioceptor types display segmental somatotopy. (2) Proprioceptor output synapses both converge and diverge in space; they are organized into six spatial domains, each containing a unique set of one or more proprioceptors. Proprioceptors form output synapses along the proximal axonal entry pathway into the neuropil. (3) Proprioceptors receive few inhibitory input synapses. Further, we find that these three features do not apply to other larval somatosensory neurons. Thus, we have generated the most comprehensive map to date of how proprioceptor synapses are centrally organized. This map documents previously undescribed features of proprioceptors, raises questions about underlying developmental mechanisms, and has implications for downstream proprioceptive processing circuits.
Case report: Recurrent nocturnal awakenings in cluster headache: a different type of ghost attack
Authors: Giuliani Giada , Gorgoni Maurizio , Altieri Marta , Di Piero Vittorio
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Cluster headache (CH) is a trigeminal autonomic cephalalgia characterized by attacks of severe unilateral pain associated with ipsilateral autonomic symptoms. Cluster headache attacks exhibit nocturnal predilection, and sleep disorders could be the first manifestation of an incipient cluster period. Sleep alterations in cluster headache patients may reflect the pivotal role of the hypothalamus, which is crucially involved in the pathophysiology of this primary headache. We describe the case of a patient affected by episodic cluster headache who experienced a sleep disorder after starting therapy with verapamil.

Case presentation

A 47-year-old man was affected by episodic cluster headache, characterized by attacks of excruciating pain in the left orbital and temporal regions, associated with prominent ipsilateral vegetative symptoms. Headaches occurred during the night, with one or two nocturnal attacks appearing at 11.30–12 p.m. and 4–4.30 a.m. Preventive treatment with verapamil was started, with immediate pain relief. Later, he experienced consecutive nocturnal awakenings for a couple of weeks, always at the same time, without any pain or autonomic symptoms. He was not agitated and did not need to get out of bed; after the awakenings, he reported sleep disturbances with vivid dreams.

Discussion and conclusion

This case represents the first description of recurrent cyclic nocturnal awakenings, without pain and autonomic symptoms, in a patient with episodic cluster headache during the active phase of a cluster bout. Nocturnal awakenings, started after the introduction of effective preventive therapy, might be an unusual form of “ghost attacks.” After the beginning of prophylactic therapy, patients often describe mild pain or localized pressure in the same localization of CH attack. Similarly, the appearance of sleep disturbances, without any pain or vegetative symptoms, should be regarded as a warning sign of a still active cluster bout. Since these manifestations may influence therapeutic management, they should be carefully investigated.
Telehealth-based exercise in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Kudritzki Virginia , Howard Ileana M.
Published: July 2023

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) has served as a leader in the implementation of telerehabilitation technologies and continues to expand utilization of non-traditional patient encounters to better serve a geographically and demographically diverse population. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease impacting Veterans at a higher rate than the civilian population and associated with high levels of disability and limited access to subspecialized care. There is growing evidence supporting exercise-based interventions as an independent or adjunctive treatment to maintain or restore function for this patient population; many of these interventions can be delivered remotely by telehealth. The recent advancements in disease-modifying therapies for neuromuscular disorders will likely increase the importance of rehabilitation interventions to maximize functional outcomes. Here, we review the evidence for specific exercise interventions in ALS and the evidence for telehealth-based exercise in neuromuscular disorders. We then use this existing literature to propose a framework for telehealth delivery of these treatments, including feasible exercise interventions and remote outcome measures, recommended peripheral devices, and an example of a current remote group exercise program offered through VHA.
Deep intracochlear injection of triamcinolone-acetonide with an inner ear catheter in patients with residual hearing
Authors: Prenzler Nils K. , Salcher Rolf , Lenarz Thomas , Gaertner Lutz , Lesinski-Schiedat Anke , Warnecke Athanasia
Published: July 2023

Introduction

In a previous study, an inner ear catheter was used to deliver low- and high-dose steroids into the cochlea prior to cochlear implant electrode insertion. With this approach, more apical regions of the cochlea could be reached and a reduction of electrode impedances in the short term was achieved in cochlear implant recipients. Whether intracochlear application of drugs via the catheter is a safe method also for patients with residual hearing has not been investigated hitherto. The aim of the present study was therefore to investigate the effect of intracochlear triamcinolone application in cochlear implant recipients with residual hearing.

Patients and methods

Patients with residual hearing were administered triamcinolone-acetonide (4 mg/ml; n = 10) via an inner ear catheter just prior to insertion of a MED-EL FLEX28 electrode. Impedances were measured at defined time points (intra-operatively, post-operatively and at first fitting) and retrospectively compared with a control group (no steroid application) and low- and high-dose group. Hearing thresholds were measured preoperatively, 3 days after surgery and at first fitting by pure tone audiometry. Pre- to postoperative hearing loss was determined at first fitting and compared to results from a previous study.

Results

The median hearing loss after implantation (125–1,500 Hz) was 20.6 dB. Four patients (40%) showed a median hearing loss of less than 15 dB, three patients (30%) between 15 and 30 dB and three patients (30%) more than 30 dB. The median hearing loss was similar to the results obtained from our previous study showing a median hearing loss of 24 dB when using FLEX28 electrode arrays.

Conclusion

No difference in residual hearing loss was found when comparing application of triamcinolone-acetonide using an inner ear catheter prior to the insertion of a FLEX28 electrode array to the use of the FLEX28 electrode array without the catheter. Thus, we conclude that application of drugs to the cochlea with an inner ear catheter could be a feasible approach in patients with residual hearing.
sPinal cOrd neUromodulatioN to treat Cerebral palsy in pEdiatrics: POUNCE Multisite Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Girshin Kristin , Sachdeva Rahul , Cohn Richard , Gad Parag , Krassioukov Andrei V. , Edgerton V. Reggie
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Cerebral palsy (CP) affects up to 4 children in 1,000 live births, making it the most common motor disorder in children. It impairs the child’s ability to move voluntarily and maintain balance and posture, and results in a wide range of other functional disorders during early development impairments in various sensory modalities, e.g., vision, hearing ability and proprioception. Current standard of care therapy focuses on symptom management and does not mitigate the progression of many of these underlying neurological impairments. The goal of this trial is to conduct a prospective multicenter, double-blinded, sham-controlled, crossover, randomized control trial to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of noninvasive spinal cord neuromodulation (SCiP™, SpineX Inc.) in conjunction with activity-based neurorehabilitation therapy (ABNT) to improve voluntary sensorimotor function in children with cerebral palsy.

Methods and analysis

Sixty participants (aged 2–13 years) diagnosed with CP classified as Gross Motor Function Classification Scale Levels I-V will be recruited and divided equally into two groups (G1 and G2). Both groups will receive identical ABNT 2 days/wk. G1 will initially receive sham stimulation, whereas G2 will receive therapeutic SCiP™ therapy for 8 weeks. After 8 weeks, G1 will cross over and receive therapeutic SCiP™ therapy for 8 weeks, whereas G2 will continue to receive SCiP™ therapy for another 8 weeks, for a total of 16 weeks. Primary and secondary outcome measures will include Gross Motor Function Measure-88 and Modified Ashworth Scale, respectively. Frequency and severity of adverse events will be established by safety analyses.

Ethics and dissemination

The trial is registered on clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05720208). The results from this trial will be reported on clinicaltrials.gov, published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at scientific and clinical conferences.
Feasibility of accelerated T2 mapping for the preoperative assessment of endometrial carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Zanxia , Liu Jie , Wang Weijian , Zhang Yong , Qu Feifei , Hilbert Tom , Kober Tobias , Cheng Jingliang , Li Shujian , Zhu Jinxia
Published: July 2023

Objective

The application value of T2 mapping in evaluating endometrial carcinoma (EMC) features remains unclear. The aim of the study was to determine the quantitative T2 values in EMC using a novel accelerated T2 mapping, and evaluate them for detection, classification,and grading of EMC.

Materials and methods

Fifty-six patients with pathologically confirmed EMC and 17 healthy volunteers were prospectively enrolled in this study. All participants underwent pelvic magnetic resonance imaging, including DWI and accelerated T2 mapping, before treatment. The T2 and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values of different pathologic EMC features were extracted and compared. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to analyze the diagnostic efficacy of the T2 and ADC values in distinguishing different pathological features of EMC.

Results

The T2 values and ADC values were significantly lower in EMC than in normal endometrium (bothl p < 0.05). The T2 and ADC values were significantly different between endometrioid adenocarcinoma (EA) and non-EA (both p < 0.05) and EMC tumor grades (all p < 0.05) but not for EMC clinical types (both p > 0.05) and depth of myometrial invasion (both p > 0.05). The area under the ROC curve (AUC) was higher for T2 values than for ADC values in predicting grade 3 EA (0.939 vs. 0.764, p = 0.048). When combined T2 and ADC values, the AUC for predicting grade 3 EA showed a significant increase to 0.947 (p = 0.03) compared with those of ADC values. The T2 and ADC values were negatively correlated with the tumor grades (r = -0.706 and r = -0.537, respectively).

Conclusion

Quantitative T2 values demonstrate potential suitability in discriminating between EMC and normal endometrium, EA and non-EA, grade 3 EA and grade 1/2 EA. Combining T2 and ADC values performs better in predicting the histological grades of EA in comparison with ADC values alone.