bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Standardised lesion segmentation for imaging biomarker quantitation: a consensus recommendation from ESR and EORTC
Authors: deSouza Nandita M. , van der Lugt Aad , Deroose Christophe M. , Alberich-Bayarri Angel , Bidaut Luc , Fournier Laure , Costaridou Lena , Oprea-Lager Daniela E. , Kotter Elmar , Smits Marion , Mayerhoefer Marius E. , Boellaard Ronald , Caroli Anna , de Geus-Oei Lioe-Fee , Kunz Wolfgang G. , Oei Edwin H. , Lecouvet Frederic , Franca Manuela , Loewe Christian , Lopci Egesta , Caramella Caroline , Persson Anders , Golay Xavier , Dewey Marc , O’Connor James P. B. , deGraaf Pim , Gatidis Sergios , Zahlmann Gudrun ,   European Society of Radiology,   European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer
Published: October 2022

Background

Lesion/tissue segmentation on digital medical images enables biomarker extraction, image-guided therapy delivery, treatment response measurement, and training/validation for developing artificial intelligence algorithms and workflows. To ensure data reproducibility, criteria for standardised segmentation are critical but currently unavailable.

Methods

A modified Delphi process initiated by the European Imaging Biomarker Alliance (EIBALL) of the European Society of Radiology (ESR) and the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Imaging Group was undertaken. Three multidisciplinary task forces addressed modality and image acquisition, segmentation methodology itself, and standards and logistics. Devised survey questions were fed via a facilitator to expert participants. The 58 respondents to Round 1 were invited to participate in Rounds 2–4. Subsequent rounds were informed by responses of previous rounds.

Results/conclusions

Items with ≥ 75% consensus are considered a recommendation. These include system performance certification, thresholds for image signal-to-noise, contrast-to-noise and tumour-to-background ratios, spatial resolution, and artefact levels. Direct, iterative, and machine or deep learning reconstruction methods, use of a mixture of CE marked and verified research tools were agreed and use of specified reference standards and validation processes considered essential. Operator training and refreshment were considered mandatory for clinical trials and clinical research. Items with a 60–74% agreement require reporting (site-specific accreditation for clinical research, minimal pixel number within lesion segmented, use of post-reconstruction algorithms, operator training refreshment for clinical practice). Items with ≤ 60% agreement are outside current recommendations for segmentation (frequency of system performance tests, use of only CE-marked tools, board certification of operators, frequency of operator refresher training). Recommendations by anatomical area are also specified.
The therapeutic effect of adipose-derived stem cells on soft tissue injury after radiotherapy and their value for breast reconstruction
Authors: Tang Haojing , He Yufei , Liang Zhuokai , Li Jian , Dong Ziqing , Liao Yunjun
Published: October 2022

Background

Postmastectomy radiotherapy is considered to be a necessary treatment in the therapy of breast cancer, while it will cause soft tissue damage and complications, which are closely related to the success rate and effectiveness of breast reconstruction. After radiotherapy, cutaneous tissue becomes thin and brittle, and its compliance decreases. Component fat grafting and adipose-derived stem cell therapy are considered to have great potential in treating radiation damage and improving skin compliance after radiotherapy.

Main body

In this paper, the basic types and pathological mechanisms of skin and soft tissue damage to breast skin caused by radiation therapy are described. The 2015–2021 studies related to stem cell therapy in PubMed were also reviewed. Studies suggest that adipose-derived stem cells exert their biological effects mainly through cargoes carried in extracellular vesicles and soluble secreted factors. Compared to traditional fat graft breast reconstruction, ADSC therapy amplifies the effects of stem cells in it. In order to obtain a more purposeful therapeutic effect, proper stem cell pretreatment may achieve more ideal and safe results.

Conclusion

Recent research works about ADSCs and other MSCs mainly focus on curative effects in the acute phase of radiation injury, and there is little research about treatment of chronic phase complications. The efficacy of stem cell therapy on alleviating skin fibrosis and its underlying mechanism require further research.
ETV2 promotes osteogenic differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells through the ERK/MAPK and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways
Authors: Li Jing , Du Haoran , Ji Xin , Chen Yihan , Li Yishuai , Heng Boon Chin , Xu Jianguang
Published: October 2022

Background

The repair of cranio-maxillofacial bone defects remains a formidable clinical challenge. The Ets variant 2 (ETV2) transcription factor, which belongs to the E26 transformation-specific (ETS) family, has been reported to play a key role in neovascularization. However, the role of ETV2 in the osteogenesis of human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) remains unexplored.

Methods

Transgenic overexpression of ETV2 was achieved using a lentiviral vector, based on a Dox-inducible system. The effects of Dox-induced overexpression of ETV2 on the osteogenesis of hDPSCs were evaluated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), western blot, immunofluorescence staining, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining, and Alizarin Red S (ARS) staining. Additionally, RNA-sequencing (RNA-Seq) analysis was performed to analyze the underlying mechanisms of ETV2-induced osteogenesis. Additionally, the role of ETV2 overexpression in bone formation in vivo was validated by animal studies with a rat calvarial defect model and a nude mice model.

Results

Our results demonstrated that ETV2 overexpression significantly upregulated the mRNA and protein expression levels of osteogenic markers, markedly enhanced ALP activity, and promoted matrix mineralization of hDPSCs. Moreover, the results of RNA-Seq analysis and western blot showed that the ERK/MAPK and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways were activated upon transgenic overexpression of ETV2. The enhanced osteogenic differentiation of hDPSCs due to ETV2 overexpression was partially reversed by treatment with inhibitors of ERK/MAPK or PI3K-AKT signaling. Furthermore, the results of in vivo studies demonstrated that ETV2 overexpression improved bone healing in a rat calvarial defect model and increased ectopic bone formation in nude mice.

Conclusions

Collectively, our results indicated that ETV2 overexpression exerted positive effects on the osteogenesis of hDPSCs, at least partially via the ERK/MAPK and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways.
TNFα and IFNγ rapidly activate PI3K-AKT signaling to drive glycolysis that confers mesenchymal stem cells enhanced anti-inflammatory property
Authors: Xu Chenchang , Feng Chao , Huang Peiqing , Li Yinghong , Liu Rui , Liu Chunxiao , Han Yuyi , Chen Lei , Ding Yayun , Shao Changshun , Shi Yufang
Published: October 2022

Background

Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) acquire immunosuppressive capacity only in an inflammatory microenvironment. This can be recapitulated in vitro by treating MSCs with inflammatory cytokines TNFα and IFNγ, which induce indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) and TNF-stimulated gene-6 (TSG-6). However, the signaling pathways downstream of the cytokines remain to be elucidated.

Methods

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) mouse model was established by subjecting mice to dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) in drinking water for 7 days. Human UC-MSCs were pretreated with TNF-α and IFN-γ for 24 h and were then infused intravenously at day 2 of DSS administration. Colon tissues were collected for length measurement and histopathological examination. The serum level of IL-6 in mice was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Real-time PCR and Western blot were used to examine the mRNA level and protein expression. MSCs overexpressing constitutive active AKT or dominant negative AKT were generated and were analyzed. The glycolysis level of the MSCs was measured using Extracellular Flux Analyzer. 2-NBDG was used to monitor the uptake of glucose by MSCs.

Results

TNFα and IFNγ treatment led to rapid consumption of glucose and metabolic skewing toward glycolysis in MSCs, which was required for the therapeutic efficacy of MSCs on IBD. Blockade of glycolysis in MSCs inhibited the expression of immunomodulatory molecules, IDO and TSG-6, as well as the therapeutic effect on IBD. Moreover, PI3K-AKT signaling axis was rapidly activated and was required for the skewing toward glycolysis induced by TNFα and IFNγ. MSCs expressing dominant negative AKT were compromised in their therapeutic efficacy on IBD.

Conclusion

The glycolysis-dependent anti-inflammatory property of MSCs conferred by inflammatory cytokines is mediated by PI3K-AKT signaling pathway.
Systematic comparation of the biological and transcriptomic landscapes of human amniotic mesenchymal stem cells under serum-containing and serum-free conditions
Authors: Sun Yunyan , Wang Ti-er , Hu Qianwen , Zhang Wenxia , Zeng Yun , Lai Xun , Zhang Leisheng , Shi Mingxia
Published: October 2022

Background

Human amniotic mesenchymal stem cells (hAMSCs) are splendid cell sources for clinical application in the administration of numerous refractory and relapse diseases. Despite the preferable prospect of serum-free (SF) condition for cell product standardization and pathogenic contamination remission, yet the systematic and detailed impact upon hAMSCs at both cellular and transcriptomic levels is largely obscure.

Methods

For the purpose, we preconditioned hAMSCs under serum-containing (SC) and SF medium for 48 h and compared the biological signatures and biofunctions from the view of cell morphology, immunophenotypes, multi-lineage differentiation in vitro, cell vitality, cytokine expression, and immunosuppressive effect upon the subpopulations of T lymphocytes, together with the PI3K-AKT-mTOR signaling reactivation upon cell vitality. Meanwhile, we took advantage of RNA-SEQ and bioinformatic analyses to verify the gene expression profiling and genetic variation spectrum in the indicated hAMSCs.

Results

Compared with those maintained in SC medium, hAMSCs pretreated in SF conditions manifested conservation in cell morphology, immunophenotypes, adipogenic differentiation, and immunosuppressive effect upon the proliferation and activation of most of the T cell subpopulations, but with evaluated cytokine expression (e.g., TGF-β1, IDO1, NOS2) and declined osteogenic differentiation and cell proliferation as well as proapoptotic and apoptotic cells. The declined proliferation in the SF group was efficiently rescued by PI3K-AKT-mTOR signaling reactivation. Notably, hAMSCs cultured in SF and SC conditions revealed similarities in gene expression profiling and variations in genetic mutation at the transcriptome level. Instead, based on the differentially expressed genes and variable shear event analyses, we found those genes were mainly involved in DNA synthesis-, protein metabolism-, and cell vitality-associated biological processes and signaling pathways (e.g., P53, KRAS, PI3K-Akt-mTOR).

Conclusions

Collectively, our data revealed the multifaceted cellular and molecular properties of hAMSCs under SC and SF conditions, which suggested the feasibility of serum-free culture for the preferable preparation of standardized cell products for hAMSC drug development and clinical application.
Stem cell-based therapy for pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Cheng Wenzhao , Zeng Yiming , Wang Dachun
Published: October 2022

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a chronic and relentlessly progressive interstitial lung disease in which the accumulation of fibroblasts and extracellular matrix (ECM) induces the destruction of normal alveolar structures, ultimately leading to respiratory failure. Patients with advanced PF are unable to perform physical labor and often have concomitant cough and dyspnea, which markedly impair their quality of life. However, there is a paucity of available pharmacological therapies, and to date, lung transplantation remains the only possible treatment for patients suffering from end-stage PF; moreover, the complexity of transplantation surgery and the paucity of donors greatly restrict the application of this treatment. Therefore, there is a pressing need for alternative therapeutic strategies for this complex disease. Due to their capacity for pluripotency and paracrine actions, stem cells are promising therapeutic agents for the treatment of interstitial lung disease, and an extensive body of literature supports the therapeutic efficacy of stem cells in lung fibrosis. Although stem cell transplantation may play an important role in the treatment of PF, some key issues, such as safety and therapeutic efficacy, remain to be resolved. In this review, we summarize recent preclinical and clinical studies on the stem cell-mediated regeneration of fibrotic lungs and present an analysis of concerning issues related to stem cell therapy to guide therapeutic development for this complex disease.
Sufentanil sublingual tablet system for enhanced recovery after total knee arthroplasty: a prospective observational case study
Authors: Rineau Emmanuel , Dumartinet Benjamin , Samson Emmanuel , Dollfus Apolline , Aubourg Corentin , Lasocki Sigismond
Published: October 2022

Background

Postoperative pain is one of the main factors that delays recovery after prosthetic knee surgery. The use of sufentanil sublingual tablet systems (SSTS) can effectively relieve postoperative pain, but their value in facilitating early mobilization has been little studied so far. Our aim here was to assess whether their use could facilitate recovery after knee arthroplasty in an enhanced recovery program.

Case presentation

In a prospective observational single-center study, thirty patients operated on for primary knee arthroplasty in the enhanced recovery pathway were included. Patients who received the SSTS (n=15) were compared with those who received an intravenous morphine patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) (n=15). Our recovery program included in particular the use of an adductor canal block, periarticular infiltration of local anesthetic by the surgeon, removal of the venous cannula from the recovery room if possible, the use of an SSTS when available or an IV morphine PCA otherwise, and early physiotherapy. Recovery parameters including the Timed-Up and Go test, pain scores at rest and on exertion, knee flexions, complications, and lengths of hospital stay were not significantly different between the two groups. However, the postoperative opioid consumption in morphine equivalents was significantly greater in the SL-sufentanil group and these patients had their venous cannula removed earlier than in IV-morphine group.

Conclusion

In our center, the use of a SSTS was suitable for treating postoperative pain after knee arthroplasty, but it did not improve early recovery in comparison with a morphine PCA.
Assessing the mechanism of citywide test-trace-isolate Zero-COVID policy and exit strategy of COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Yuan Pei , Tan Yi , Yang Liu , Aruffo Elena , Ogden Nicholas H. , Yang Guojing , Lu Haixia , Lin Zhigui , Lin Weichuan , Ma Wenjun , Fan Meng , Wang Kaifa , Shen Jianhe , Chen Tianmu , Zhu Huaiping
Published: October 2022

Background

Countries that aimed for eliminating the cases of COVID-19 with test-trace-isolate policy are found to have lower infections, deaths, and better economic performance, compared with those that opted for other mitigation strategies. However, the continuous evolution of new strains has raised the question of whether COVID-19 eradication is still possible given the limited public health response capacity and fatigue of the epidemic. We aim to investigate the mechanism of the Zero-COVID policy on outbreak containment, and to explore the possibility of eradication of Omicron transmission using the citywide test-trace-isolate (CTTI) strategy.

Methods

We develop a compartmental model incorporating the CTTI Zero-COVID policy to understand how it contributes to the SARS-CoV-2 elimination. We employ our model to mimic the Delta outbreak in Fujian Province, China, from September 10 to October 9, 2021, and the Omicron outbreak in Jilin Province, China for the period from March 1 to April 1, 2022. Projections and sensitivity analyses were conducted using dynamical system and Latin Hypercube Sampling/ Partial Rank Correlation Coefficient (PRCC).

Results

Calibration results of the model estimate the Fujian Delta outbreak can end in 30 (95% confidence interval CI: 28–33) days, after 10 (95% CI: 9–11) rounds of citywide testing. The emerging Jilin Omicron outbreak may achieve zero COVID cases in 50 (95% CI: 41–57) days if supported with sufficient public health resources and population compliance, which shows the effectiveness of the CTTI Zero-COVID policy.

Conclusions

The CTTI policy shows the capacity for the eradication of the Delta outbreaks and also the Omicron outbreaks. Nonetheless, the implementation of radical CTTI is challenging, which requires routine monitoring for early detection, adequate testing capacity, efficient contact tracing, and high isolation compliance, which constrain its benefits in regions with limited resources. Moreover, these challenges become even more acute in the face of more contagious variants with a high proportion of asymptomatic cases. Hence, in regions where CTTI is not possible, personal protection, public health control measures, and vaccination are indispensable for mitigating and exiting the COVID-19 pandemic.

Graphical Abstract
Comparison of international guidelines for diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma and implications for transplant allocation in liver transplantation candidates with gadoxetic acid enhanced liver MRI versus contrast enhanced CT: a prospective study with liver explant histopathological correlation
Authors: Odedra Devang , Jandaghi Ali Babaei , Bhayana Rajesh , Elbanna Khaled Y. , Espin-Garcia Osvaldo , Fischer Sandra E. , Ghanekar Anand , Sapisochin Gonzalo , Jhaveri Kartik S.
Published: October 2022

Objectives

To compare the diagnostic performance of international hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) guidelines with gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI (EOB-MRI) and contrast-enhanced Computed tomography (CECT) and their impact on liver transplant (LT) allocation in cirrhotic patients with explant histopathology correlation.

Methods

In this prospective single-centre ethics-approved study, 101 cirrhotic patients were consecutively enrolled with informed consent from the pre-LT clinic. They underwent CECT and EOB-MRI alternately at three monthly intervals until LT or removal from LT list. Two abdominal radiologists, blinded to explant histopathology, independently recorded liver lesions visible on CECT and EOB-MRI. Imaging-based HCC scores were assigned to non-treated liver lesions utilizing Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS), European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL), Asian-Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver (APASL) and Korean Liver Cancer Association-National Cancer Center (KLCA) guidelines. Liver explant histopathology was the reference standard. Simulated LT eligibility was assessed as per Milan criteria (MC) in reference to explant histopathology.

Results

One hundred and three non-treated HCC and 12 non-HCC malignancy were identified at explant histopathology in 34 patients (29 men, 5 women, age 55–73 years). Higher HCC sensitivities of statistical significance were observed with EOB-MRI for LI-RADS 4 + 5, APASL and KLCA compared to LI-RADS 5 and EASL with greatest sensitivity obtained for LIRADS 4 + 5 lesions. HCC sensitivities by all guidelines with both EOB-MRI and CECT were significantly lower if all histopathology-detected HCCs were included in the analysis, compared to imaging-visible lesions only. A significantly greater variation in HCC sensitivity was noted across the guidelines with EOB-MRI compared to CECT. No significant differences in simulated LT eligibility based on MC were observed across the HCC scoring guidelines with EOB-MRI or CECT.

Conclusion

HCC sensitivities are variable depending on scoring guideline, lesion size and imaging modality utilised. Prior studies that included only lesions visible on pre-operative imaging overestimate the diagnostic performance of HCC scoring guidelines. Per-lesion differences in HCC diagnosis across these guidelines did not impact patient-level LT eligibility based on MC.
Immature rat testis sustained long-term development using an integrative model
Authors: Ma Yubo , Chen Juan , Li Hecheng , Xu Fangshi , Chong Tie , Wang Ziming , Zhang Liandong
Published: October 2022

Background

Xenotransplantation has been primarily performed using fresh donor tissue to study testicular development for about 20 years, and whether the cultured tissue would be a suitable donor is unclear. In this study, we combined testicular culture and xenotransplantation into an integrative model and explored whether immature testicular tissue would survive and continue to develop in this model.

Methods

In the new integrative model group, the testes of neonatal rats on postnatal day 8 (PND 8) were cultured for 4 days ex vivo and then were transplanted under the dorsal skin of castrated nude mice. The xenografted testes were resected on the 57th day after xenotransplantation and the testes of rats in the control group were harvested on PND 69. The survival state of testicular tissue was evaluated from morphological and functional perspectives including H&E staining, immunohistochemical staining of 8-OH-dG, immunofluorescence staining, TUNEL assay, ultrastructural study, gene expression and protein analysis.

Results

(a) We found that complete spermatogenesis was established in the testes in the new integrative model group. Compared with the control in the same stage, the seminiferous epithelium in some tubules was a bit thinner and there were vacuoles in part of the tubules. Immunofluorescence staining revealed some ACROSIN-positive spermatids were present in seminiferous tubule of xenografted testes. TUNEL detection showed apoptotic cells and most of them were germ cells in the new integrative model group. 8-OH-dG immunohistochemistry showed strongly positive-stained in the seminiferous epithelium after xenotransplantation in comparison with the control group; (b) Compared with the control group, the expressions of FOXA3, DAZL, GFRα1, BOLL, SYCP3, CDC25A, LDHC, CREM and MKI67 in the new integrative model group were significantly elevated (P < 0.05), indicating that the testicular tissue was in an active differentiated and proliferative state; (c) Antioxidant gene detection showed that the expression of Nrf2, Keap1, NQO1 and SOD1 in the new integrative model group was significantly higher than those in the control group (P < 0.05), and DNA methyltransferase gene detection showed that the expression of DNMT3B was significantly elevated as well (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The new integrative model could maintain the viability of immature testicular tissue and sustain the long-term survival in vivo with complete spermatogenesis. However, testicular genes expression was altered, vacuolation and thin seminiferous epithelium were still apparent in this model, manifesting that oxidative damage may contribute to the testicular development lesion and it needs further study in order to optimize this model.
The comprehensive on-demand 3D bio-printing for composite reconstruction of mandibular defects
Authors: Park Han Ick , Lee Jee-Ho , Lee Sang Jin
Published: October 2022

Background

The mandible is a functional bio-organ that supports facial structures and helps mastication and speaking. Large mandible defects, generally greater than 6-cm segment loss, may require composite tissue reconstruction such as osteocutaneous-vascularized free flap which has a limitation of additional surgery and a functional morbidity at the donor site. A 3D bio-printing technology is recently developed to overcome the limitation in the composite reconstruction of the mandible using osteocutaneous-vascularized free flap.

Review

Scaffold, cells, and bioactive molecules are essential for a 3D bio-printing. For mandibular reconstruction, materials in a 3D bio-printing require mechanical strength, resilience, and biocompatibility. Recently, an integrated tissue and organ printing system with multiple cartridges are designed and it is capable of printing polymers to reinforce the printed structure, such as hydrogel.

Conclusion

For successful composite tissue reconstruction of the mandible, biologic considerations and components should be presented with a comprehensive on-demand online platform model of customized approaches.
Knowledge of obstetrician and family medicine doctors in Saudi Arabia about women with epilepsy
Authors: Al Anazi Riyam F. , Atef Gehan M. , Alhafean Kholod M. , Al Sharif Roaa A. , Al-Attas Alawi A.
Published: October 2022

Background

Women have a slightly lower prevalence of epilepsy and unprovoked seizures than men; however, women with epilepsy have several exceptional dilemmas, including the use of anti-seizure medications (ASMs) in addition to the effects of ASMs on sexual function, contraception, pregnancy, childbirth, congenital fetal malformations, and breastfeeding. This study assessed the knowledge of obstetricians and family medicine physicians about relevant topics and concerns of women with epilepsy (WWE) in Saudi Arabia.

Results

Out of 108 participants recruited for the study, the largest percentage (62%) was residents, while 17.6% were consultants and the remaining 20.4% were specialists or fellows. In terms of specialty, 61.1% of the participants were obstetricians, while the remaining 38.9% were family medicine physicians. The participants showed varied levels of knowledge about important health issues ranging from 71.3% (ASMs and breastfeeding) to 11.5% (percent of children at risk for major birth defects) for WWE. Knowledge scores of health issues for WWE were significantly higher among obstetricians compared to family medicine physicians (6.16 ± 2.75 vs. 4.29 ± 1.95; p < 0.001). Similarly, scores were significantly higher among consultants/fellows compared to residents/specialists (7.27 ± 1.62 vs. 4.65 ± 2.56; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Inadequate knowledge about several vital WWE issues was observed, particularly the hormonal influence of estrogen and progesterone on the control of convulsions, high likelihood of osteomalacia among WWE, and high rate of sexual dysfunction among them. This insufficient knowledge among healthcare providers could negatively influence epilepsy-related counseling for WWE.
Safety and efficacy of the VenaTech™ Retrievable inferior vena cava filter: a first-in-man single-center prospective study
Authors: Déan Carole , Kim Young Il , Sanchez Olivier , Martelli Nicolas , Sapoval Marc , Pellerin Oliver
Published: October 2022

Background

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a frequent condition worldwide, associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Though its primary treatment is anticoagulation, the placement of an inferior vena cava (IVC) filter is recommended in patients with some comorbidities. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the clinical safety and efficacy of the Venatech® retrievable IVC filter. This open-label prospective single-center study was conducted on 40 consecutive patients requiring temporary or permanent IVC filtration. Patient characteristics, technical success rates of filter placement and removal, and the occurrence of complications were assessed. Follow-up imaging was performed using CT-scan before retrieval or at 6 months in the permanent indication population.

Results

The filter was successfully implanted at the intended location in all the patients. Retrieval was attempted in 21 (52.5%) patients after a mean period of 50 days (range: 6–94 days), and the filter was successfully removed in 18 patients (85.7%). Reason for retrieval failure was filter with trapped thrombus (n = 2) and a > 15° tilt (n = 1). No complication was observed during the filter placement and retrieval. Follow-up imaging available in 30 patients (75%) demonstrated deep filter penetration (> 3 mm) in four patients (13.3%), severe filter tilt (> 15o) in five patients (16.7%), filter with trapped thrombus in three patients (10%), but no fracture or IVC thrombosis.

Conclusion

This prospective study showed encouraging preliminary results of the safety and efficacy of the Venatech® retrievable IVC filter. The filter was easily delivered in the intended position and successfully removed in a high percentage of patients.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02674672
Valet attack on privacy: a cybersecurity threat in automotive Bluetooth infotainment systems
Authors: Renganathan Vishnu , Yurtsever Ekim , Ahmed Qadeer , Yener Aylin
Published: October 2022

Modern automobiles are equipped with connectivity features to enhance the user’s comfort. Bluetooth is one such communication technology that is used to pair a personal device with an automotive infotainment unit. Upon pairing, the user could access the personal information on the phone through the automotive head unit with minimum distraction while driving. However, such connectivity introduces a possibility for privacy attacks. Hence, performing an in-depth analysis of the system with privacy constraints is extremely important to prevent unauthorized access to personal information. In this work, we perform a systematic analysis of the Bluetooth network of an automotive infotainment unit to exploit security and privacy-related vulnerabilities. We model the identified threat with respect to privacy constraints of the system, emphasize the severity of attacks through a standardized rating metric and then provide potential countermeasures to prevent the attack. We perform System Theoretic Process Analysis for Privacy as a part of the systematic analysis and use the Common Vulnerability Scoring System to derive attack severity. The identified vulnerabilities are due to design flaws and assumptions on Bluetooth protocol implementation on automotive infotainment systems. We then elicit the vulnerability by performing a privacy attack on the Automotive system in an actual vehicle. We use Android Open-Source Project to report our findings and propose defense strategies.
Measurement variability in two-dimensional shear wave elastography (SWE) of common carotid artery (CCA)
Authors: Almutairi Fahad F.
Published: October 2022

Background

Recently, vascular shear wave elastography (SWE) applications have gained the interest and shown potential clinical value. However, there is limited evidence about the variability in Young’s modulus (YM) estimates. The purpose of this study was to quantify sources of variability associated with SWE measurements in common carotid artery (CCA).

Results

Mean YM of both anterior proximal and distal region of interest  (ROIs) of the right CCA was significantly different (61 kPa vs 55.6 kPa; p < 0.001). Mean YM of anterior and posterior proximal and distal ROIs of the left side was significantly different (58.9 kPa vs 52.4 kPa; p < 0.001). Mean YM of right anterior and posterior proximal and distal ROIs was significantly different (58.3 kPa vs 51 kPa; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

US SWE was able to assess YM in CCAs although YM measurements were highly variable. The difference between YM between anterior and posterior walls is attributed to an artifact of the SWE technique that has not previously been reported and requires further investigation.
Pathomechanisms of non-coding RNAs and hub genes related to the oxidative stress in diabetic complications
Authors: Hajibabaie Fatemeh , Aali Faranak , Abedpoor Navid
Published: October 2022

Cytokine storms, oxidative stress, and hyperglycemia can enhance the risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Moreover, T2D may change the functional and structural heart. However, some signaling pathways, such as insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hyperglycemia, can play in T2D, and various pathomechanics and pathophysiology involved in T2D are not understood. Moreover, it is well documented that the non-coding RNAs are potentially pivotal molecules in oxidative stress, inflammation, and cell death signaling pathways. Hence, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs may have vital roles in oxidative stress, inflammation, metabolism, T2D, and cardiovascular systems. Non-coding RNAs can target hub gene networks and suppress or trigger various cascades. Furthermore, lifestyle is the other factor that may affect the prevalence of T2D. A sedentary lifestyle and excessive sitting can enhance inflammation, oxidative stress, and hyperglycemia. Here, we attempt to comprehend the role of hub genes, non-coding RNAs, and unhealthy lifestyles on the pathomechanics and pathophysiology of diabetic vascular complications.
Tree diversity and regeneration status in the different forest types of Kotla watershed (Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, India)
Authors: Rana Krishan Pal Singh Rana , Koshal Avadhesh Kumar Koshal , Bajpai Atal Bihari Bajpai
Published: October 2022

The present study aimed to assess the diversity and regeneration status of tree species in different forest types viz., Pinus forest (PF), Pinus-Oak mixed forest (POF) and Deodar forest (DF) of Kotla watershed (Barkot, Uttakashi, Uttarakhand). The data were collected through quadrat method and analyzed quantitatively. A total of 28 tree species, belonging to 21 families were recorded in the sampling area (3 forests  10 plots in each  plot size 400 m2). Fagaceae, Pinaceae, Ericaceae, Fabaceae and Juglandaceae were the major families (in terms of number of species). The species-area curves (SACs) of PF and DF reached an asymptote while it predicted more species (din not reach asymptote) in case of POF. The resulted values of different diversity indices (i.e., Dominance, Simpson, Shannon, Evenness, Margalef, and Equitability) revealed that the POF was most diverse (in tree diversity) followed by PF and DF. The ranked species abundance (RSA) curve of POF was log normal type but geometric series type for PF and DF. The density-diameter curves (d-d curves) was reverse J-shaped for POF while in case of PF and DF, the higher densities were observed for middle DBH classes in comparison to lowest and highest DBH classes. The overall regeneration status of the forests in the area was fair (25.8% tree, 18.6% saplings and 55.6% seedlings). The present study provides a deeper understanding of tree diversity pattern and regeneration status from a pocket of IHR.
Wywiady, herbatki, wspomnienia : międzypokoleniowe spotkania chemików UJ
Authors: Kozyra Paweł
Published: October 2022

Międzypokoleniowe spotkania chemików to połączenie teraźniejszości (Herbatki - rozmowy z aktualnymi pracownikami Wydziału), przyszłości (wywiady z przyszłymi chemikami - studentami) i przeszłości (wspomnienia byłych pracowników lub o byłych pracownikach Wydziału). Naszą główną motywacją było zachowanie pamięci, która jest nośnikiem tożsamości. Jesteśmy sumą naszych doświadczeń, więc przede wszystkim będzie w tej książce o doświadczeniach chemików (a chemik doświadczenia, choćby myślowe, lubi najbardziej!) jako indywidualnych osób, ale jednocześnie tworzących pewną grupę, można nawet powiedzieć - wspólnotę. Wspólnotę, która w każdej chwili dziejów składa się z adeptów nauk chemicznych, czyli studentów, kadry nauczającej oraz emerytowanych pracowników. W zamyśle główną formą opracowania jest wersja elektroniczna, aktualizowana możliwie na bieżąco. Jednak w dowolnym momencie (na przykład przy okazji jubileuszu czterdziestolecia istnienia Wydziału Chemii) można zrobić ?stop-klatkę" i wydrukować aktualny stan w postaci tradycyjnej, fizycznej książki. Zebrane teksty wydają się dobitnie wskazywać, że nie tylko wynik pokazywany przez Scopusa jest ważny w życiu chemika. Zapewne nie uda się nam dorównać w rzetelności naukowym bazom danych, ale mamy nadzieję, że mimo wszystko zdołamy wykazać, że jest coś istotnego poza nimi. Redakcja
Sums of Separable and Quadratic Polynomials
Authors: Ahmadi Amir Ali , Dibek Cemil , Hall Georgina
Published: October 2022

We study separable plus quadratic (SPQ) polynomials, that is, polynomials that are the sum of univariate polynomials in different variables and a quadratic polynomial. Motivated by the fact that nonnegative separable and nonnegative quadratic polynomials are sums of squares, we study whether nonnegative SPQ polynomials are (i) the sum of a nonnegative separable and a nonnegative quadratic polynomial and (ii) a sum of squares. We establish that the answer to question (i) is positive for univariate plus quadratic polynomials and for convex SPQ polynomials but negative already for bivariate quartic SPQ polynomials. We use our decomposition result for convex SPQ polynomials to show that convex SPQ polynomial optimization problems can be solved by “small” semidefinite programs. For question (ii), we provide a complete characterization of the answer based on the degree and the number of variables of the SPQ polynomial. We also prove that testing nonnegativity of SPQ polynomials is NP-hard when the degree is at least four. We end by presenting applications of SPQ polynomials to upper bounding sparsity of solutions to linear programs, polynomial regression problems in statistics, and a generalization of Newton’s method that incorporates separable higher order derivative information.

Funding: This work was partially supported by an AFOSR MURI award, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency Young Faculty Award, the Princeton School of Engineering and Applied Sciences Innovation Award, the National Science Foundation Faculty Early Career Development Program Award, the Google Faculty Award, and the Sloan Fellowship.
HOFFMANN E O CONTO FANTÁSTICO PORTUGUÊS
Authors: Carniel Jean Carlos
Published: October 2022

Apesar de ser autor de uma obra vasta, E. T. A. Hoffmann é mais conhecido como um dos grandes precursores do conto fantástico. É objetivo deste trabalho verificar como ele é recepcionado em Portugal na segunda metade do século XIX e qual é a sua contribuição para o desenvolvimento do conto fantástico naquele país. Primeiramente, comentaremos a recepção crítica francesa de Hoffmann, destacando principalmente a imagem cristalizada de autor “maldito”, que é replicada pelos portugueses. Em seguida, sem esgotar as fontes, cotejaremos alguns textos críticos e literários, de autores diversos, como Fernando Maria Bordalo, Teófilo Braga, Gomes Leal, Pinheiro Chagas, Álvaro do Carvalhal e Eça de Queirós, para compreender como eles dialogam com Hoffmann. A hipótese que permeia a pesquisa é que a prosperidade do conto fantástico da década de 1860 em Portugal pode ter sido motivada pelo contato com a produção de autores consagrados da tradição fantástica, como Hoffmann, pois, apesar de já ter sido cultivado anteriormente naquele país, é somente nesse período que a crítica tende a reconhecer o seu “nascimento”. Todavia, tal como um prisma, no qual cada face revela um segmento, a afinidade com a obra do alemão é uma das vertentes da variada produção fantástica desse período.
KREISLER, O CAGLIOSTRO KAPPELMEISTER E O CHISTE EM UM DETALHE DO ROMANCE GATO MURR DE E. T. A. HOFFMANN
Authors: Silva Lucas Henrique
Published: October 2022

O artigo apresenta análise a partir de um fragmento do texto da biografia de Johannes Kreisler, uma das partes do romance combinatório Reflexões do gato Murr (Fragmentarischer Biographie des Kapellmeisters Johannes Kreisler in zufälligen Makulaturblättern) de E. T. A. Hoffmann (1820). O escritor oitocentista faz uma referência a um “conhecido histrião”, que acreditamos se tratar de uma alusão história à figura divulgada como Conde Alessandre di Cagliostro (1743-1795), um místico viajante de grande fama no século XIX. Ao se debruçar sobre essa referência, chegamos a uma peça de Goethe chamada O grande Cophta (der Groß-Cophta), de 1792 e a um texto periférico na obra de Walter Benjamin “Cagliostro”. A partir desses dois textos, apresentamos essa possível referência da personagem de Hoffmann, para observar, nesse processo, a composição de um chiste combinatório capaz de transformar um elemento tido como negativo, mesmo uma ameaça, em outras obras de Hoffmann, em positivo, nesse trabalho de maturidade. Utilizamos, para dar conta do entendimento do método combinatório do chiste, textos de Friedrich Schlegel.
Making a splash in oral health care
Authors: Needham Sakina
Published: October 2022

Sakina Needham explains why she joined the British Fluoridation Society – and how she is urging more dental nurses to jump in, too.
Prioritization of THose aWaiting hip and knee ArthroplastY(PATHWAY): protocol for development of a stakeholder led clinical prioritization tool
Authors: Farrow Luke , Clement Nick D. , Smith Diane , Meek Dominic R. M. , Ryan Mandy , Gillies Katie , Anderson Lesley , Ashcroft G. P.
Published: October 2022

Aims

The extended wait that most patients are now experiencing for hip and knee arthroplasty has raised questions about whether reliance on waiting time as the primary driver for prioritization is ethical, and if other additional factors should be included in determining surgical priority. Our Prioritization of THose aWaiting hip and knee ArthroplastY (PATHWAY) project will explore which perioperative factors are important to consider when prioritizing those on the waiting list for hip and knee arthroplasty, and how these factors should be weighted. The final product will include a weighted benefit score that can be used to aid in surgical prioritization for those awaiting elective primary hip and knee arthroplasty.

Methods

There will be two linked work packages focusing on opinion from key stakeholders (patients and surgeons). First, an online modified Delphi process to determine a consensus set of factors that should be involved in patient prioritization. This will be performed using standard Delphi methodology consisting of multiple rounds where following initial individual rating there is feedback, discussion, and further recommendations undertaken towards eventual consensus. The second stage will then consist of a Discrete Choice Experiment (DCE) to allow for priority setting of the factors derived from the Delphi through elicitation of weighted benefit scores. The DCE consists of several choice tasks designed to elicit stakeholder preference regarding included attributes (factors).

Results

The study is co-funded by the University of Aberdeen Knowledge Exchange Commission (Ref CF10693-29) and a Chief Scientist Office (CSO) Scotland Clinical Research Fellowship which runs from 08/2021 to 08/2024 (Grant ref: CAF/21/06). Approval from the University of Aberdeen Institute of Applied Health Sciences School Ethics Review Board was granted 22/03/2022 - Reference number SERB/2021/12/2210.

Conclusion

The PATHWAY project provides the first attempt to use patient and surgeon opinions to develop a unified approach to prioritization for those awaiting hip and knee arthroplasty. Development of such a tool will provide more equitable access to arthroplasty services, as well as providing a framework for developing similar approaches in other areas of healthcare delivery. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(10):753–758.
Optimal bright multimode quantum squeezing via multi-seeding energy-level cascaded four-wave mixing
Authors: Li Jiawei , Zeng Jianhua , Li Feng , Zhang Yanpeng , Cai Yin
Published: October 2022

Quantum Squeezing is one of the most important quantum resources in quantum optics and quantum information. In particular, multimode quantum squeezing, with ultra-low quantum fluctuations and quantum correlations amongst many optical modes, is essential for realizing multipartite entanglement and quantum precision measurements. In this paper, we propose an all-optically controlled scheme to generate three-mode bright quantum correlated beams from energy-level cascaded four-wave mixing (ELC-FWM). By using a linear modes transform approach, the input-output relation and the covariance matrix of the produced states are obtained. Moreover, single-, double- and triple-seeding conditions are investigated to measure the quantum squeezing properties. We find that various permutations of two- and three-mode quadrature squeezing can be generated and optimized to reach the corresponding limit, via only modulating the ratio of the multiple seeds, without need of any post-operating linear optics, e.g., beam splitters. Such weak seeding light controlled scheme suggests the modulation and the optimization of multimode quantum states might be operated at photons-level, providing a reconfigurable and integrated strategy for complex quantum information processing and quantum metrology.
Widely tunable continuous-wave fiber laser in the 1.55-1.8  µm wavelength region
Authors: ChmielowskI Przemyslaw , Nikodem Michal
Published: October 2022

In this paper, we experimentally demonstrate a continuous-wave widely wavelength-tunable fiber laser based on erbium- and bismuth-doped fibers in parallel configuration. A diffraction grating was used for wavelength tuning, and the tuning range of 268 nm (from 1545 to 1813 nm) was obtained using Littrow design. This result is significantly greater than demonstrated previously in the same spectral region with erbium or bismuth doped fiber lasers.
Temporal behavior of the high-power pulsed gas terahertz laser pumped by a fundamental mode TEA CO2 laser
Authors: Geng Lijie , Zhang Ruiliang , Yan Pengji , Qu Yanchen , Ji Zhikun , Zhai Yusheng , Zhao Weijiang , Zhang Zhifeng , Zhang Wenyan , Yang Kun
Published: October 2022

Optically pumped gas molecular terahertz (THz) lasers are promising for generating high-power and high-beam-quality coherent THz radiation. However, for pulsed gas THz lasers, the temporal behavior of the output THz pulse has rarely been investigated. In this study, the temporal behavior of a pulsed gas THz pumped by a fundamental-mode TEA CO2 laser has been presented for the first time both in simulation and experiment. A modified laser kinetics model based on the density matrix rate equation was used to simulate the temporal behavior and output pulse energy of a pulsed gas THz laser at different gas pressures. The results clearly show that the working gas pressure and pump pulse energy have critical influences on the output THz pulse shape. Three typical pulse shapes were obtained, and the THz pulse splitting caused by gain switching was quantitatively simulated and explained based on the laser dynamic process. Besides, with an incident pump pulse energy of 342 mJ, the maximum output THz pulse energy of 2.31 mJ was obtained at 385 µm, which corresponds to a photon conversion efficiency of approximately 56.1%, and to our knowledge, this is the highest efficiency for D2O gas THz laser. The experimental results agreed well with those of the numerical simulation for the entire working gas pressure range, indicating that our model is a powerful tool and paves the way for designing and optimizing high-power pulsed gas lasers.
Tunable directional filter for mid-infrared optical transmission switching
Authors: Butler Andrew , Schulz Jack , Argyropoulos Christos
Published: October 2022

Controlling the spectral and angular response of infrared (IR) radiation is a challenging task of paramount importance to various emerging photonic applications. Here, we overcome these problems by proposing and analyzing a new design of a tunable narrowband directional optical transmission filter. The presented thermally controlled multilayer filter leverages the temperature dependent phase change properties of vanadium dioxide (VO2) to enable efficient and reversible fast optical switching by using a pump-probe laser excitation setup. More specifically, transmission is blocked for high intensity probe lasers due to the VO2 metallic properties induced at elevated temperatures while at low probe laser intensities high transmission through the filter occurs only for a narrowband IR range confined to near normal incident angles. The proposed multilayer composite dielectric filter is expected to have applications in optical communications, where it can act as dual functional infrared filter and optical switch.