bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lipid kinase PIP5Kα contributes to Hippo pathway activation via interaction with Merlin and by mediating plasma membrane targeting of LATS1
Authors: Le Truc Phan Hoang , Nguyen Nga Thi Thanh , Le Duong Duy Thai , Anwar Muhammad Ayaz , Lee Sang Yoon
Published: June 2023

Background

The Hippo pathway plays a critical role in controlled cell proliferation. The tumor suppressor Merlin and large tumor suppressor kinase 1 (LATS1) mediate activation of Hippo pathway, consequently inhibiting the primary effectors, Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ). Phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2), a lipid present in the plasma membrane (PM), binds to and activates Merlin. Phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate 5-kinase α (PIP5Kα) is an enzyme responsible for PIP2 production. However, the functional role of PIP5Kα in regulation of Merlin and LATS1 under Hippo signaling conditions remains unclear.

Methods

PIP5Kα, Merlin, or LATS1 knockout or knockdown cells and transfected cells with them were used. LATS1, YAP, and TAZ activities were measured using biochemical methods and PIP2 levels were evaluated using cell imaging. Low/high cell density and serum starvation/stimulation conditions were tested. Colocalization of PIP5Kα and PIP2 with Merlin and LATS1, and their protein interactions were examined using transfection, confocal imaging, immunoprecipitation, western blotting, and/or pull-down experiments. Colony formation and adipocyte differentiation assays were performed.

Results

We found that PIP5Kα induced LATS1 activation and YAP/TAZ inhibition in a kinase activity-dependent manner. Consistent with these findings, PIP5Kα suppressed cell proliferation and enhanced adipocyte differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells. Moreover, PIP5Kα protein stability and PIP2 levels were elevated at high cell density compared with those at low cell density, and both PIP2 and YAP phosphorylation levels initially declined, then recovered upon serum stimulation. Under these conditions, YAP/TAZ activity was aberrantly regulated by PIP5Kα deficiency. Mechanistically, either Merlin deficiency or LATS1 deficiency abrogated PIP5Kα-mediated YAP/TAZ inactivation. Additionally, the catalytic domain of PIP5Kα directly interacted with the band 4.1/ezrin/radixin/moesin domain of Merlin, and this interaction reinforced interaction of Merlin with LATS1. In accordance with these findings, PIP5Kα and PIP2 colocalized with Merlin and LATS1 in the PM. In PIP5Kα-deficient cells, Merlin colocalization with PIP2 was reduced, and LATS1 solubility increased.

Conclusions

Collectively, our results support that PIP5Kα serves as an activator of the Hippo pathway through interaction and colocalization with Merlin, which promotes PIP2-dependent Merlin activation and induces local recruitment of LATS1 to the PIP2-rich PM and its activation, thereby negatively regulating YAP/TAZ activity.
Effects of supportive and minimalist footwear on standing balance and walking stability in older women
Authors: Azhar Ameer Nor , Munteanu Shannon E. , Menz Hylton B.
Published: June 2023

Background

Footwear has been shown to influence balance and is an important consideration in relation to the prevention of falls. However, it remains unclear as to what type of footwear is most beneficial for balance in older people: sturdy, supportive footwear, or minimalist footwear to maximise plantar sensory input. The objectives of this study were therefore to compare standing balance and walking stability in older women wearing these two footwear styles, and to investigate participants' perceptions in relation to comfort, ease of use and fit.

Methods

Older women (n = 20) aged 66 to 82 years (mean 73.4, SD 3.9) performed a series of laboratory tests of standing balance (eyes open and closed on floor and foam rubber mat, near tandem standing) and walking stability (treadmill, level and irregular surface) using a wearable sensor motion analysis system. Participants were tested wearing supportive footwear (incorporating design features to improve balance) and minimalist footwear. Perceptions of the footwear were documented using structured questionnaires.

Results

There were no statistically significant differences in balance performance between the supportive and minimalist footwear. Participants perceived the supportive footwear to be significantly more attractive to self and others, easier to put on and off but heavier compared to the minimalist footwear. Overall comfort was similar between the footwear conditions, although the supportive footwear was reported to be significantly more comfortable in the heel, arch height, heel cup, heel width and forefoot width regions. Eighteen participants (90%) reported that they felt more stable in the supportive footwear and 17 (85%) reported that they would consider wearing them to reduce their risk of falling.

Conclusion

Balance performance and walking stability were similar in supportive footwear designed to reduce the risk of falling and minimalist footwear, although participants preferred the supportive footwear in relation to aesthetics, ease of use, comfort and perceived stability. Prospective studies are now required to ascertain the longer‐term advantages and disadvantages of these footwear styles on comfort and stability in older people.

Trial registration

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry. ACTRN12622001257752p, 20/9/2022 (prospectively registered).
The Bovine Pangenome Consortium: democratizing production and accessibility of genome assemblies for global cattle breeds and other bovine species
Authors: Smith Timothy P. L. , Bickhart Derek M. , Boichard Didier , Chamberlain Amanda J. , Djikeng Appolinaire , Jiang Yu , Low Wai Y. , Pausch Hubert , Demyda-Peyrás Sebastian , Prendergast James , Schnabel Robert D. , Rosen Benjamin D. ,   Bovine Pangenome Consortium
Published: June 2023

The Bovine Pangenome Consortium (BPC) is an international collaboration dedicated to the assembly of cattle genomes to develop a more complete representation of cattle genomic diversity. The goal of the BPC is to provide genome assemblies and a community-agreed pangenome representation to replace breed-specific reference assemblies for cattle genomics. The BPC invites partners sharing our vision to participate in the production of these assemblies and the development of a common, community-approved, pangenome reference as a public resource for the research community (https://bovinepangenome.github.io/). This community-driven resource will provide the context for comparison between studies and the future foundation for cattle genomic selection.
PSMD3-ILF3 signaling cascade drives lung cancer cell proliferation and migration
Authors: Zhang Jin , Ma Qianli , Yu Qiduo , Xiao Fei , Zhang Zhenrong , Feng Hongxiang , Liang Chaoyang
Published: June 2023

Background

Proteasome 26S subunit, non-ATPase 3 (PSMD3) has been reported to participate in various human cancers. Nevertheless, the function of PSMD3 in lung cancer (LC) remains unclear.

Methods

RT-qPCR and western blot were used to detect the expression of PSMD3 in LC tissues form TCGA database and clinical samples, and LC cell lines. To study the effect of PSMD3 on LC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis, siRNAs targeting PSMD3 were synthesized and overexpressed plasmids were constructed. CCK-8 assay, Transwell assay, and etc. were used to evaluate the results. Tumor xenograft model was used to evaluate the function of PSMD3 on tumor growth. CO-IP and MS were used to scan the proteins that bind with PSMD3. The interaction between PSMD3 and ILF3 in lung cancer cells were studied using IF staining, CHX protein stability, and ubiquitination assay. Additionally, the effect of ILF3 on cell progression and LC tumor growth was demonstrated by conducting a recovery assay using siILF3 and an ILF3 inhibitor YM155.

Results

We observed that PSMD3 was significantly overexpressed in LC tissues and cells, which indicated a poor prognosis. Meanwhile, we found that PSMD3 promoted cell proliferation, migration, and invasion of LC cells. We also determined that PSMD3 stabilized the protein expression of ILF3 and the deubiquitination of ILF3 in lung cancer cells. Furthermore, animal experiments showed that the ILF3 inhibitor YM155 could suppress tumor growth with the presence of PSMD3.

Conclusions

PSMD3 collectively regulated the stability of ILF3 protein and facilitated the ubiquitination of endogenous ILF3 in LC, which ultimately promoted the progression of LC cells. The PSMD3/ ILF3 axis could potentially be used as a novel strategy for both diagnosis and treatment of LC.
Effect of an intraoperative periradicular application of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) on residual post-surgical neuropathic pain after disc herniation surgery: study protocol for NeuroPRF, a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Todeschi Julien , Dannhoff Guillaume , Coca Andres Hugo , Timbolschi Daniel Ionut , Proust François , Lefebvre François , Lelievre Vincent , Poisbeau Pierrick , Vallat Laurent , Salvat Eric , Bohren Yohann
Published: June 2023

Background

The prevalence of post-surgical lumbar neuropathic radiculopathy is approximately 30%. Poor response to the recommended treatments for neuropathic pain, namely antidepressants and/or gabapentinoids, requires the development of new techniques to prevent chronic pain. One such well-tolerated technique is the administration of autologous plasma enriched in platelets and fibrin (PRF). This approach is largely used in regenerative medicine owing to the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of PRF. It could also be an interesting adjuvant to surgery, as it reduces neurogenic inflammation and promotes nerve recovery, thereby reducing the incidence of residual postoperative chronic pain. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the benefit of periradicular intraoperative application of PRF on the residual postsurgical neuropathic pain after disc herniation surgery.

Methods

A randomized, prospective, interventional, controlled, single-blind study with evaluation by a blind outcome assessor will be performed in Strasbourg University Hospital. We will compare a control group undergoing conventional surgery to an experimental group undergoing surgery and periradicular administration of PRF (30 patients in each arm). The primary outcome is the intensity of postoperative neuropathic radicular pain, measured by a visual analog scale (VAS) at 6 months post-surgery. The secondary outcomes are the characteristics of neuropathic pain (NPSI), the quality of life (SF-12 and PGIC), the presence of anxiety/depression symptoms (HAD), and the consumption of analgesics. We will also carry out transcriptomic analysis of a panel of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in blood samples, before surgery and at 6 months follow-up. These gene expression results will be correlated with clinical data, in particular, with the apparition of postoperative neuropathic pain.

Discussion

This study is the first randomized controlled trial to assess the efficacy of PRF in the prevention of neuropathic pain following surgery for herniated disc. This study addresses not only a clinical question but will also provide information on the physiopathological mechanisms of neuropathic pain.

Trial registration

This study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT05196503, February 24, 2022.
The value of pre-symptomatic genetic risk assessment for age-related macular degeneration: the Moran AMD Genetic Testing Assessment (MAGENTA) study—a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Addo Emmanuel K. , Hartnett M. Elizabeth , Bernstein Paul S.
Published: June 2023

Background

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an irreversible blinding eye condition with complex genetic and environmental etiologies. Genetic testing for AMD for previously identified multiple-risk single nucleotide polymorphisms can help determine an individual’s future susceptibility. However, such testing has been discouraged until evidence shows that providing such information to symptomatic or pre-symptomatic individuals will alter their disease course. Therefore, we designed this study to investigate whether knowledge of AMD risk could stimulate the adoption of a healthier lifestyle that could lower the incidence of AMD later in life. We hypothesize that pre-symptomatic individuals informed of a high genetic risk of AMD are more likely to make quantifiable, positive lifestyle changes relative to participants informed of lower genetic risk or randomized to deferred disclosure of genetic testing results.

Methods

The Moran AMD Genetic Testing Assessment (MAGENTA) study is a phase 2, single-center, prospective, double-masked, randomized controlled trial conducted at the John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA. Participants are randomized by a 3:1 allocation ratio to immediate and deferred disclosure groups and followed for 12 months. Skin, ocular, and serum carotenoid status, as well as nutritional and social surveys, are assessed at study visits. Skin carotenoid assessment is by resonance Raman spectroscopy and reflectance spectroscopy, ocular carotenoids are measured with Heidelberg Spectralis autofluorescence imaging and fluorescence lifetime imaging ophthalmoscopy (FLIO), and serum carotenoids are quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography. The primary outcome evaluates changes in skin carotenoid status in response to genetic risk disclosure. The secondary outcomes examine changes in ocular and serum carotenoid status in response to genetic risk disclosure. Also, we will correlate AMD genetic risk with baseline ocular and systemic carotenoid status and FLIO.

Discussion

MAGENTA will provide much-needed evidence on whether pre-symptomatic testing for AMD risk can lead to quantifiable long-term changes in behavior and lifestyle associated with a lower incidence of AMD later in life. Findings from the MAGENTA trial will facilitate the design of a future larger, longer-term, multicenter phase 3 trial that could feature subgroup analysis, expanded measures of lifestyle modification, and potential active nutritional interventions.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05265624. Registered on March 3, 2022.
Rivaroxaban in patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein elevation (BANBOO): study protocol for a randomized, controlled trial
Authors: Li Jingyuan , Ma Sicong , Jia Xiu , Bu Yingzhen , Zhou Tienan , Zhang Lei , Qiu Miaohan , Wang Xiaozeng
Published: June 2023

Background

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a fatal disease due to the tendency to rupture. The drug treatment for small AAA without surgical indications has been controversial. Previous studies showed that high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) had become a potential biomarker of the disease, and the anti-inflammatory effect of rivaroxaban for AAA had been well established. Thus, we hypothesized that rivaroxaban could control the progression of AAA in patients with hs-CRP elevation.

Methods

The study is a prospective, open-label, randomized, controlled clinical trial. Sixty subjects are recruited from the General Hospital of Northern Theatre Command of China. Subjects are randomly assigned (1:1) to the intervention arm (rivaroxaban) or control arm (aspirin). The primary efficacy outcome is the level of serum hs-CRP at 6 months. The secondary outcomes include imaging examination (the maximal diameter of AAA, the maximal thickness of mural thrombus, and the length of aneurysm), major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE, including AAA transformation, non-fatal myocardial infarction, acute congestive heart failure, stent thrombosis, ischemia-driven target vessel revascularization, vascular amputation, stroke, cardiovascular death, and all-cause death), and other laboratory tests (troponin T, interleukin 6, D-dimer, and coagulation function).

Discussion

The BANBOO trial tested the effect of rivaroxaban on the progression of AAA in patients with elevated Hs-CRP for the first time.

Trial registration

ChiCTR2100051990, ClinicalTrials.gov, registered on 12 October 2021.
Colorectal cancer: a qualitative study of coping strategies used by survivors, with associated social determinants
Authors: González-Herrera Antonio , Pujol-Ribera Enriqueta , Esteva Magdalena , Ruiz-Marcos Lorena , March Sebastià
Published: June 2023

Background

Colorectal cancer survivors have to develop coping strategies during the diagnosis and survivorship period. This study aims to identify coping strategies in patients with colorectal cancer, in particular the differences between coping strategies during the disease and throughout survival. It also aims to investigate the impact of some social determinants on coping strategies and critically reflect on the influence of positive psychology.

Methods

Qualitative study with in-depth interviews of a purposive sample of 21 colorectal cancer survivors in Majorca (Spain), developed between 2017–2019. Data was analysed using interpretive thematic analysis.

Results

We observed different coping strategies during the stages of disease and survival. However, striving toward acceptance and adaptation when facing difficulties and uncertainty, predominate in both stages. Confrontational attitudes are also considered important, as well as encouraging positive rather than negative feelings, which are considered unhelpful and to be avoided.

Conclusions

Although coping during illness and survival can be classified into common categories (problem and emotion-centred strategies), the challenges of these stages are faced differently. Age, gender and the cultural influence of positive psychology strongly influence both stages and strategies.
Energy cooperatives and just transition in Southeastern Europe
Authors: Končalović D. , Nikolić J. , Džokić A. , Momčilović P. , Živković D.
Published: June 2023

Background

The energy markets of Southeastern Europe largely depend on fossil fuels. Energy prices are lower in this region than in the rest of Europe, while the energy transition is relatively delayed. This paper aims at summarizing the obstacles to the civic energy transition in Southeastern Europe and the future prospects for its success.

Results

In Southeastern Europe, there are great concerns about the uncertainty of the energy transition process and its outcomes. There is a lot of apprehensions that the transition could drift away from the citizens and end up in the hands of large-scale solar and wind farms entirely. In other words, citizens may be completely excluded from participating in the energy transition. Renewable energy cooperatives can serve as a crucial vehicle for organizing and engaging citizens in the energy transition. They can also be used as a lever of civic influence. This influence is crucial for ensuring a fair transition. The research methodology on cooperative development includes a literature review and a survey conducted with 240 participants. The participants were local government officials, members of NGOs, businesses, scholars, and citizens. The paper summarizes the answers to the questions which the authors considered essential for deepening our understanding of citizens’ attitudes on a (just) energy transition. The results show that the public awareness about the energy transition has increased. In addition, participants have demonstrated a willingness to take action, both as individuals and through cooperative efforts. However, they have also shown a great level of mistrust in the government, mainly due to perceived corruption and lack of transparency. Generally speaking, they have doubts that the energy transition can be completed in a fair and timely manner within their national context.

Conclusions

This paper provides insight into the current state of affairs and the prospects for the energy transition based on the attitudes of the citizens in Southeastern Europe. The paper argues that energy cooperatives should be employed as a training ground for the citizens, since, through joint actions, their trust in each other can be regained, rehearsed, and restored.
Characterization of materials in the late 15th-century animal encyclopedia at an Ottoman Library and detection of deterioration products by HPLC–DAD
Authors: Torgan Güzel Emine , Karadag Recep , Baydar Nil
Published: June 2023

There are many manuscripts in institutions that preserve and exhibit cultural heritage such as museums, galleries, and libraries. These manuscripts are of great value because of their witnessing to the past and the historical and cultural significance they have accumulated. In addition to the organic nature and the natural aging of the paper, which is generally used as the primary carrier material in these objects, other materials used in the manuscripts are an obstacle to their preservation and reaching future generations. In this study, the 62-volume animal encyclopedia, which is known to be written in the name of animals, plants, and Islamic science at the end of the fifteenth century (1487–1501) and added to an Ottoman Library, was examined analytically. A total of 40 samples consisting of paper, ink, dye, and leather samples were analyzed using high performance liquid chromatography with a diode array detector (HPLC–DAD). After all, information on material characterization and deterioration product(s) was obtained. As a result of the analysis, vanillic acid, and its derivatives due to the natural aging of the paper and chrysophanic acid and its derivatives caused by fungi, which are the result of unfavorable environmental factors, were determined. It was concluded that the ink used in the manuscripts was iron-gall ink. In addition, it was determined that madder, weld, buckthorn, redwood, rhubarb, or dock plants were used as dyestuffs in paper and leather samples. Also, it was deduced that the leather samples were tanned with the vegetable tanning method using tannins. Since tannic acids were determined in the dyestuff analysis of three paper samples with ink, elemental analysis was performed on black ink by scanning an electron microscope with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM–EDX). As a result of this analysis, the element of iron has been detected and it has been confirmed that the black ink is iron-gall ink. It is inevitable that this study will guide conservation experts in restoration and conservation studies.
Source mechanisms and triggering process for the April 12th and 13th, 2014 earthquake doublet in the Solomon Islands
Authors: Qwana Calvin Luiramo , Miyazawa Masatoshi , Mori James
Published: June 2023

Mw 7.6 and Mw 7.4 earthquakes occurred 16 h apart on April 12 and April 13, 2014, at depths of 15 km and 35 km, respectively, southwest of Makira Island (San Cristobal) in the Solomon Islands. We study the source mechanisms to investigate the interrelation between the two events, and to investigate why the Solomon Islands have a historically high rate of doublet earthquakes. Teleseismic P waveform data for both events were used to obtain the slip distributions for the two earthquakes by a finite fault slip inversion method. The Mw 7.6 event is an east–west left-lateral strike slip, where the maximum slip is observed 8–24 km east of the hypocenter. The Mw 7.4 earthquake is a thrust event with north and south-dipping nodal planes. The fault plane is not clear from the aftershock distribution, but the north-dipping plane considered to be the likely fault plane because of the simpler slip distribution compared to the south-dipping plane. The static Coulomb failure stress changes caused by the first earthquake were calculated in the region of the second earthquake. The results show that there was a + 48.59 kPa change at the hypocenter for the assumed north-dipping plane and + 18.24 kPa for the assumed south-dipping plane of the Mw 7.4 event. The temporal pattern of aftershocks shows a possible rate increase of stress prior to the occurrence of the Mw 7.4 events, which may also contribute to the triggering of the second event by static Coulomb Stress changes. We propose a model that supports the geological complexity of the region that may encourage such doublet events.

Graphical Abstract
Liver abscess caused by Clostridium perfringens after left hepatic trisectionectomy for perihilar cholangiocarcinoma: a case report
Authors: Tohmatsu Yuuko , Yamada Mihoko , Otsuka Shimpei , Ohgi Katsuhisa , Ashida Ryo , Kurai Hanako , Yasui Haruna , Sugino Takashi , Uesaka Katsuhiko , Sugiura Teiichi
Published: June 2023

Background

Clostridium perfringens sepsis has been reported to have a rapid onset and severe clinical outcome. We herein report a case of C. perfringens sepsis associated with massive intravascular hemolysis after left hepatic trisectionectomy for perihilar cholangiocarcinoma.

Case presentation

A 72-year-old woman underwent left hepatic trisectionectomy for perihilar cholangiocarcinoma. Her postoperative course was uneventful except for bile leakage. She was discharged on postoperative day (POD) 35. On POD 54, she was readmitted because of abdominal pain with a high fever. Although her vital signs were stable on arrival at the hospital, a laboratory examination showed a severe inflammatory reaction and hemolysis, and she had developed disseminated intravascular coagulation. Abdominal contrast-enhanced computed tomography showed a 70-mm irregular shape and low-density containing air in liver segment 6, which suggested a liver abscess. The abscess was immediately drained of pus containing air. The pus showed multiple Gram-positive bacilli, and two blood cultures showed Gram-positive bacilli and hemolysis. Empirical antibiotic therapy with vancomycin and meropenem was started because C. perfringens was detected from the preoperative bile culture. Four hours after arrival, tachypnea and decreased oxygen saturation were observed. Her general condition deteriorated rapidly with significant hypoglycemia, progressive acidosis, anemia, and thrombocytopenia. Despite rapid drainage and empiric therapy, she died six hours after her arrival. At autopsy, the abscess consisted of coagulation necrosis of liver cells with inflammatory cell infiltration, and clusters of Gram-positive large bacilli were observed in the necrotic debris. C. perfringens was detected in the drainage fluid and blood culture. She was diagnosed with a liver abscess and severe sepsis caused by C. perfringens and treated promptly, but the disease progressed rapidly and led to her death.

Conclusions

Sepsis caused by C. perfringens can progress rapidly and lead to death in a few hours, so prompt treatment is needed. When patients who have undergone highly invasive hepatobiliary-pancreatic surgery show hemolysis and hepatic abscesses with gas, C. perfringens should be considered the most likely bacterium.
Checklist to assess Trustworthiness in RAndomised Controlled Trials (TRACT checklist): concept proposal and pilot
Authors: Mol Ben W. , Lai Shimona , Rahim Ayesha , Bordewijk Esmée M. , Wang Rui , van Eekelen Rik , Gurrin Lyle C. , Thornton Jim G. , van Wely Madelon , Li Wentao
Published: June 2023

Objectives

To propose a checklist that can be used to assess trustworthiness of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Design

A screening tool was developed using the four-stage approach proposed by Moher et al. This included defining the scope, reviewing the evidence base, suggesting a list of items from piloting, and holding a consensus meeting. The initial checklist was set-up by a core group who had been involved in the assessment of problematic RCTs for several years. We piloted this in a consensus panel of several stakeholders, including health professionals, reviewers, journal editors, policymakers, researchers, and evidence-synthesis specialists. Each member was asked to score three articles with the checklist and the results were then discussed in consensus meetings.

Outcome

The Trustworthiness in RAndomised Clinical Trials (TRACT) checklist includes 19 items organised into seven domains that are applicable to every RCT: 1) Governance, 2) Author Group, 3) Plausibility of Intervention Usage, 4) Timeframe, 5) Drop-out Rates, 6) Baseline Characteristics, and 7) Outcomes.

Each item can be answered as either no concerns, some concerns/no information, or major concerns. If a study is assessed and found to have a majority of items rated at a major concern level, then editors, reviewers or evidence synthesizers should consider a more thorough investigation, including assessment of original individual participant data.

Conclusions

The TRACT checklist is the first checklist developed specifically to detect trustworthiness issues in RCTs. It might help editors, publishers and researchers to screen for such issues in submitted or published RCTs in a transparent and replicable manner.
Patient- and Provider-Level Factors Associated With Telehealth Utilization Across a Multisite, Multiregional Cancer Practice From 2019 to 2021
Authors: Pritchett Joshua C. , Borah Bijan J. , Dholakia Ruchita , Moriarty James P. , Ahn Hannah H. , Huang Ming , Khera Nandita , Wilshusen Laurie , Dronca Roxana S. , Ticku Jonathan , Leppin Aaron L. , Tilburt Jon C. , Paludo Jonas , Haddad Tufia C.
Published: June 2023

PURPOSE

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, many cancer practices rapidly adopted telehealth services. However, there is a paucity of data regarding ongoing telehealth visit utilization beyond this initial response. The purpose of this study was to assess changes in variables associated with telehealth visit utilization over time.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional, year-over-year, retrospective analysis of telehealth visits conducted across a multisite, multiregional cancer practice in the United States. Multivariable models examined the association of patient- and provider-level variables with telehealth utilization across outpatient visits conducted over three 8-week periods from July to August in 2019 (n = 32,537), 2020 (n = 33,399), and 2021 (n = 35,820).

RESULTS

The rate of telehealth utilization increased from <0.01% (2019) to 11% (2020) to 14% (2021). The most significant patient-level factors associated with increased telehealth utilization included nonrural residence and age ≤65 years. Among patients residing in rural settings, video visit utilization rates were significantly lower and phone visit utilization rates were significantly higher compared with patients from nonrural residences. Regarding provider-level factors, widening differences in telehealth utilization were observed at tertiary versus community-based practice settings. Increased telehealth utilization was not associated with duplicative care as per-patient and per-physician visit volumes in 2021 remained consistent with prepandemic levels.

CONCLUSION

We observed continuous expansion in telehealth visit utilization from 2020 to 2021. Our experiences suggest that telehealth can be integrated into cancer practices without evidence of duplicative care. Future work should examine sustainable reimbursement structures and policies to ensure accessibility of telehealth as a means to facilitate equitable, patient-centered cancer care.
Bridging the Biomarker Chasm With Interprofessional Molecular Tumor Boards
Authors: Kolesar Jill M. , Arnold Susanne M. , Ueland Frederick R. , Evers B. Mark
Published: June 2023

Molecular tumor boards including clinical pharmacists can overcome biomarker testing disparities.
A systematic review of kidney-on-a-chip-based models to study human renal (patho-)physiology
Authors: Nguyen Vivian V. T. , Gkouzioti Vasiliki , Maass Christian , Verhaar Marianne C. , Vernooij Robin W. M. , van Balkom Bas W. M.
Published: June 2023

As kidney diseases affect ∼10% of the world population, understanding the underlying mechanisms and developing therapeutic interventions are of high importance. Although animal models have enhanced knowledge of disease mechanisms, human (patho-)physiology may not be adequately represented in animals. Developments in microfluidics and renal cell biology have enabled the development of dynamic models to study renal (patho-)physiology in vitro. Allowing inclusion of human cells and combining different organ models, such as kidney-on-a-chip (KoC) models, enable the refinement and reduction of animal experiments. We systematically reviewed the methodological quality, applicability and effectiveness of kidney-based (multi-)organ-on-a-chip models, and describe the state-of-the-art, strengths and limitations, and opportunities regarding basic research and implementation of these models. We conclude that KoC models have evolved to complex models capable of mimicking systemic (patho-)physiological processes. Commercial chips and human induced pluripotent stem cells and organoids are important for KoC models to study disease mechanisms and assess drug effects, even in a personalized manner. This contributes to the Reduction, Refinement and Replacement of animal models for kidney research. A lack of reporting of intra- and inter-laboratory reproducibility and translational capacity currently hampers implementation of these models.
Understanding muscle function during perturbed in vivo locomotion using a muscle avatar approach
Authors: Rice Nicole , Bemis Caitlin M. , Daley Monica A. , Nishikawa Kiisa
Published: June 2023

The work loop technique has provided key insights into in vivo muscle work and power during steady locomotion. However, for many animals and muscles, ex vivo experiments are not feasible. In addition, purely sinusoidal strain trajectories lack variations in strain rate that result from variable loading during locomotion. Therefore, it is useful to develop an ‘avatar’ approach in which in vivo strain and activation patterns from one muscle are replicated in ex vivo experiments on a readily available muscle from an established animal model. In the present study, we used mouse extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscles in ex vivo experiments to investigate in vivo mechanics of the guinea fowl lateral gastrocnemius (LG) muscle during unsteady running on a treadmill with obstacle perturbations. In vivo strain trajectories from strides down from obstacle to treadmill, up from treadmill to obstacle, strides with no obstacle and sinusoidal strain trajectories at the same amplitude and frequency were used as inputs in work loop experiments. As expected, EDL forces produced with in vivo strain trajectories were more similar to in vivo LG forces (R2=0.58–0.94) than were forces produced with the sinusoidal trajectory (average R2=0.045). Given the same stimulation, in vivo strain trajectories produced work loops that showed a shift in function from more positive work during strides up from treadmill to obstacle to less positive work in strides down from obstacle to treadmill. Stimulation, strain trajectory and their interaction had significant effects on all work loop variables, with the interaction having the largest effect on peak force and work per cycle. These results support the theory that muscle is an active material whose viscoelastic properties are tuned by activation, and which produces forces in response to deformations of length associated with time-varying loads.
Evaluation of white matter integrity by diffusion tensor imaging in the deficiencies of vitamin B12 and folate in older patients
Authors: Kaya Ahmet , Alkan Alpay , Toluk Ozlem , Ipar Ozlem , Polat Yagmur Basak , Celik Yabul Fatma , Balsak Serdar , Soysal Pinar
Published: June 2023

Objectives:

The aim of this study is to investigate whether white matter (WM) integrity is impaired in vitamin B12 and folate deficiency with Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) in older patients.

Methods:

All the patients aged ≥65 years admitted to the geriatric clinic and performed DTI-MRI were included in the study. DTI parameters (fractional anisotropy, mean diffusivity, axial diffusivity, radial diffusivity) were calculated by ROI-based method in white matter tracts. Deficiency threshold for vitamin B12 were defined as <200 pg ml−1 and <400 pg ml−1 separately; and for folate as <3 ng ml−1 and <6 ng ml−1, separately.

Results:

DTI was performed to older patients having serum vitamin B12 level (n = 106, mean age = 80.7±7.7, 66% female) and folate level (n = 101, mean age = 80.7±7.5, 67.3% female). Significantly lower FA and higher MD and RD levels were observed in multiple WM areas including superior and middle cerebellar peduncles, cingulum and genu of corpus callosum in patients with vitamin B12 <400 pg ml−1 (p < 0.05). DTI indices also showed significant changes in the genu of corpus callosum, and right and left superior longitudinal fasciculus in patients with folate <6 ng ml−1 (p < 0.05).

Conclusions:

Deficiencies of vitamin B12 and folate may be associated with impaired white matter integrity in elderly even at high laboratory levels, and DTI is a useful method to detect it.

Advances in knowledge:

Early detection of impaired WM integrity caused by micronutrient deficiencies poses a great significance in terms of prevention and intervention, and DTI is an effective non-invasive method to be used for this purpose.
Assessing the role of an artificial intelligence assessment tool for thoracic aorta diameter on routine chest CT
Authors: Graby John , Harris Maredudd , Jones Calum , Waring Harry , Lyen Stephen , Hudson Benjamin J , Rodrigues Jonathan Carl Luis
Published: June 2023

Objective:

To assess the diagnostic accuracy and clinical impact of automated artificial intelligence (AI) measurement of thoracic aorta diameter on routine chest CT.

Methods:

A single-centre retrospective study involving three cohorts. 210 consecutive ECG-gated CT aorta scans (mean age 75 ± 13) underwent automated analysis (AI-Rad Companion Chest CT, Siemens) and were compared to a reference standard of specialist cardiothoracic radiologists for accuracy measuring aortic diameter. A repeated measures analysis tested reporting consistency in a second cohort (29 patients, mean age 61 ± 17) of immediate sequential pre-contrast and contrast CT aorta acquisitions. Potential clinical impact was assessed in a third cohort of 197 routine CT chests (mean age 66 ± 15) to document potential clinical impact.

Results:

AI analysis produced a full report in 387/436 (89%) and a partial report in 421/436 (97%). Manual vs AI agreement was good to excellent (ICC 0.76–0.92). Repeated measures analysis of expert and AI reports for the ascending aorta were moderate to good (ICC 0.57–0.88). AI diagnostic performance crossed the threshold for maximally accepted limits of agreement (>5 mm) at the aortic root on ECG-gated CTs. AI newly identified aortic dilatation in 27% of patients on routine thoracic imaging with a specificity of 99% and sensitivity of 77%.

Conclusion:

AI has good agreement with expert readers at the mid-ascending aorta and has high specificity, but low sensitivity, at detecting dilated aortas on non-dedicated chest CTs.

Advances in knowledge:

An AI tool may improve the detection of previously unknown thoracic aorta dilatation on chest CTs vs current routine reporting.
Diagnosis and treatment of cardiac angiosarcoma
Authors: Ołownia Aleksandra , Orczyk Jakub , Tokarzewska Agata , Piecewicz-Szczęsna Halina
Published: June 2023

Primary cardiac tumors are very rare in the population. About 20% of it are malignant. The most common type of cardiac malignant tumor is angiosarcoma. This tumor has the ability to infiltrate surrounding tissues and form distant metastases. Angiosarcoma is most often located in the right atrium and it mostly attacks men. This neoplasm is difficult to diagnose, because it has no specific symptoms. Patients with this tumor may complain of a chest pain, cardiac arrhythmias, suffocation and distal oedema. The rarity of occurrence and the lack of specyfic symptoms contribute to late diagnosis of the disease and worse prognosis of patients. Angiosarcoma can also be misdiagnosed as pneumonia or more common cardiovascular disease for example coronary artery disease. In advanced stage, this tumor can even lead to myocardial rupture. Various imaging methods are used in the diagnostics of this neoplasm for example: CT, MRI, PET-CT or Echocardiography. Histopathological examinations are less frequently used due to the risk of serious complications like hemothorax. Due to the very uncommon occurrence of the angiosarcoma, guidelines describing treatment of patients with this neoplasm, have not been developed yet. Currently, surgical removal of the tumor (if it is possible), chemiotherapy and radiotherapy are used. Reaserches on the genetic mutations which cause angiosarcoma and the development of appropriate drugs may give patients a chance for more effective treatment in the future
Tracheotomy as a life-saving procedure - overview of the current knowledge
Authors: Góra Mateusz , Hunek Adrian , Bigdoń Anna , Ćwiek Maciej , Gorczyca Przemysław , Sydor Patryk , Kreft Rafał , Woźniak Aleksander , Wartacz Marcel , Kozłowska Martyna
Published: June 2023

Tracheotomy as a life-saving procedure has been known for many thousands of years. Tracheotomy remains one of the most frequently performed surgical procedures in the course of acute respiratory failure. Tracheostomy is traditionally performed as an open surgical procedure, performed both in the operating room and at the patient's bedside. Before performing the procedure, the thyroid cartilage and soft tissues are palpated. Before the operation, the patient lies on his back with a roller placed under the shoulder blades and his head tilted back. Direct and indirect laryngotracheoscopy is performed, and in doubtful situations we use computed tomography.General indications for tracheostomy are acute respiratory failure with anticipated need for prolonged mechanical ventilation and inability to wean off from mechanical ventilation, upper airway obstruction, and profuse secretions. Tracheostomy may have a beneficial effect on refractory obstructive sleep apnea. The percentage of late complications after the procedure reaches even 65%. The aim of the article is to present information on tracheostomy: its techniques, indications, contraindications, possible complications and decannulation of the patient.
On Gardam's and Murray's units in group rings
Authors:   Universität des Saarlandes, Bartholdi Laurent
Published: June 2023

We show that the units found in torsion-free group rings by Gardam are twisted unitary elements. This justifies some choices in Gardam's construction that might have appeared arbitrary, and yields more examples of units. We note that all units found up to date exhibit non-trivial symmetry.
MICROPLASTIC CHARACTERISTIC FOUND IN GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT OF PELAGIC AND DEMERSAL FISHES IN TUBAN, EAST JAVA
Authors: Hidayati Dewi , F Fauziah , A Aunurohim , Ashuri Nova Maulidina , Setiawan Edwin , Mulyadi Yeyes , Syahroni Nur , Joesidawati Marita Ika , S Suwarsih
Published: June 2023

Regular monitoring of microplastics contamination in marine biota have been concerned in the world, since its tiny size can be swallowed direct or indirectly and lead health problems. Tuban waters is the one of Indonesia's coastal and marine fisheries areas with high risk of microplastic pollution due to their highly anthropogenic activities. We investigated the microplastic in the digestive tracts of pelagic and demersal fishes in Tuban sea waters.  Microplastic in fish sample guts were observed under microscope and the type of polymer were examined using FT-IR. This study reveals that number of microplastic in digestive tract of pelagic fishes were higher than demersal fishes. The dominant form was fiber (62%) with black color and dominant size ranging from 100-500 um (72%). The types of polymers found were polyethylene and polyamide.
Decelerate amyloid fibrillation by the alkaloids extracted from Stephania venosa
Authors:   Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok Province, Thailand., Daowtak Krai , Pompimon Wilart ,   Laboratory of Natural Products, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Lampang Rajabhat University, Lampang Province, Thailand., Salerno Milena ,   Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, UMR-CNRS 7244, Laboratoire Chimie, Structures, Propriétés de Biomatériaux et d’Agents Thérapeutiques (CSPBAT), équipe NBD, 1 rue de Chablis, 93000, Bobigny, France, Udomtanakunchai Chatchanok ,   Department of Radiologic Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand.
Published: June 2023

Background: Naturally occurring phytochemical compounds have received considerable attention as alternative candidates for anti-amyloidogenic agents. Objectives: This study, utilizing human insulin and amyloid-β peptide as an in vitro model, determined the anti-amyloid effects of alkaloids extracted derived from Stephania venosa. Materials and methods: Alkaloids extracts including crebanine, O-methylbulbocapnine, tetrahydropalmatine and N-methyltetrahydropalmatine were used. The Inhibition of amyloid protein aggregation was studied by fluorescence spectroscopy. Results: Most alkaloids, except N-methyltetrahydropalmatine, exhibited inhibitory properties against amyloid fibrillation either insulin or amyloid-beta peptide. Among the alkaloids group, crebanine and tetrahydropalmatine showed potent properties of anti-amyloidogenesis. Conclusion: These results suggest that alkaloids could be used as a natural compound for the development of drugs against amyloid protein aggregation for the treatment of amyloid-related diseases.
Ultrabroadband and compact 2 × 2 3-dB coupler based on trapezoidal subwavelength gratings
Authors: Hu Rui , Sun Lu , Zhang Zihan , Sun Qiyao , Pan Yingdi , Su Yikai
Published: June 2023

We propose and experimentally demonstrate an ultrabroadband and compact 2 × 2 3-dB coupler based on the trapezoidal subwavelength gratings (SWGs). The adiabatic coupling is achieved between a trapezoidal SWG waveguide and a reversely tapered strip waveguide, which contributes to the ultrabroad operation bandwidth and the compact footprint of the coupler. Numerical results prove that our device has a power splitting imbalance of < ± 0.5 dB and an excess loss of < 0.2 dB in the ultrabroad bandwidth of 300 nm from 1400 nm to 1700nm, with a coupling length of 4.4 µm and a total length of 24.4 µm. The fabricated device is characterized in a 270-nm bandwidth from 1400 nm to 1670 nm, showing a measured power splitting imbalance of < ± 0.7 dB and an excess loss of < 0.5 dB.
Efficient rendering by parallelogram-approximation for full analytical polygon-based computer-generated holography using planar texture mapping
Authors: Fu Qingyang , Zhang Yaping , Zhang Bing , Qin Wenlong , Gu Xianfeng , Poon Ting-Chung
Published: June 2023

We have developed a full analytical method with texture mapping for polygon-based computer-generated holography. A parallel planar projection mapping for holographic rendering along with affine transformation and self-similar segmentation is derived. Based on this method, we further propose a parallelogram-approximation to reduce the number of polygons used in the polygon-based technique. We demonstrate that the overall method can reduce the computational effort by 50% as compared to an existing method without sacrificing the reconstruction quality based on high precision rendering of complex textures. Numerical and optical reconstructions have shown the effectiveness of the overall scheme.