bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HISTÓRIAS DE VIDA E NARRATIVA
Authors: De Andrade Nunes Suzana Mary
Published: July 2023

Este estudo apresenta o acirramento do debate acerca dos métodos de História de Vida e de Narrativa no sentido de destacar o conceito de Narratividade como uma perspetiva dos estudos epistemológicos até as primeiras décadas do século XXI. O levantamento bibliográfico das diferentes trajetórias investigativas destaca o alinhamento aos propósitos a serem alcançados. Com isso, incide-se luz ao discurso científico no tocante à conservação e as mudanças entre os métodos investigativos no conitnuum histórico, no qual as ciências estão posicionadas em primeiro plano e sempre em interface com os fatores sociais, económicos e políticos que influenciam, evidentemente, os interesses das Ciências em suas áreas do conhecimento humano e social.
Economic sustainability of extending lay cycle in the supply-managed Canadian egg industry
Authors: Traore Ousmane Z. , Doyon Maurice
Published: July 2023

The productivity levels of the Canadian egg industry have increased over the years, including hen productivity and feed conversion efficiency. Moreover, genetic improvements combined with improved feed and light management have recently resulted in hens potentially being able to produce 500 eggs in an 80-week laying cycle. Nevertheless, most egg farms in Canada are still on a 51-week production cycle despite high hen productivity levels at culling. Lack of economic impact information, combined with the fact that egg production is under supply management in Canada and that farmers are paid their cost of production reduces the incentive to extend laying cycles despite the savings associated with lower rates of flock replacement. On the other hand, a greater percentage of large eggs is beneficial to the value chain, and the use of fewer resources per egg associated with longer laying cycles generates environmental benefits. This article analyzes the economic sustainability of extending laying cycles in Canada by combining partial budgeting analysis based on farm-level data with a non-linear mathematical programming model to assess the economic costs and benefits of extending laying cycles, while taking into consideration the policy context of supply management in Canada. The results suggest that, for hens housed in an aviary, extending the laying cycles from 51 to 64 weeks would increase profits by approximately 6% per year over a 5-year period. Our optimization model forecast that a laying cycle of 71 weeks would be economically optimal, with an average productivity of 6.7 eggs per hen per week and a cumulative mortality rate of 5.53%. This article, through an innovative methodological approach that combines partial budgeting and non-linear mathematical programming models, generates information to help the egg industry stakeholders to make informed decisions on extending laying cycles while considering the policy context of supply management in Canada.
Regulators mount up: the metabolic roles of apoptotic proteins
Authors: Schofield James H. , Schafer Zachary T.
Published: July 2023

The induction of apoptosis, a programmed cell death pathway governed by activation of caspases, can result in fundamental changes in metabolism that either facilitate or restrict the execution of cell death. In addition, metabolic adaptations can significantly impact whether cells in fact initiate the apoptotic cascade. In this mini-review, we will highlight and discuss the interconnectedness of apoptotic regulation and metabolic alterations, two biological outcomes whose regulators are intertwined.
Ratio of procalcitonin/Simpson’s dominance index predicted the short-term prognosis of patients with severe bacterial pneumonia
Authors: Sun Guoxian , Liu Weili , Zheng Qingbin , Shan Qing , Hou Hongling
Published: July 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore the predictive value of the ratio of procalcitonin (PCT) in serum to Simpson’s dominance index (SDI) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), in short-term prognosis of patients with severe bacterial pneumonia (SBP).

Methods

This is a retrospective review of case materials of 110 patients with SBP who selected BALF metagenomic next-generation sequencing technique in the intensive care unit (ICU) of the Affiliated Hospital of Yangzhou University from January 2019 and July 2022. Based on the acute physiology and chronic health status score II, within 24 h after admission to the ICU, patients were divided into a non-critical group (n = 40) and a critical group (n = 70). Taking death caused by bacterial pneumonia as the endpoint event, the 28-day prognosis was recorded, and the patients were divided into a survival group (n = 76) and a death group (n = 34). The SDI, PCT, C-reactive protein (CRP), PCT/SDI, and CRP/SDI were compared and analyzed.

Results

Compared with the non-critical group, the critical group had a higher PCT level, a greater PCT/SDI ratio, a longer ventilator-assisted ventilation time (VAVT), and more deaths in 28 days. Compared with the survivors, the death group had a higher PCT level, a lower SDI level, and a greater PCT/SDI ratio. The SDI level was significantly negatively correlated with the VAVT (r = −0.675, p < 0.05), while the PCT level, ratio of PCT/SDI, and ratio of CRP/SDI were remarkably positively correlated with VAVT (r = 0.669, 0.749, and 0.718, respectively, p < 0.05). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves analysis showed that the area under ROC curves of PCT/SDI predicting patient death within 28 days was 0.851, followed by PCT + SDI, PCT, SDI, and CRP/SDI (0.845, 0.811, 0.778, and 0.720, respectively). The sensitivity and specificity of PCT/SDI for predicting death were 94.1% and 65.8%, respectively, at the optimal value (11.56). Cox regression analysis displayed that PCT/SDI (HR = 1.562; 95% CI: 1.271 to 1.920; p = 0.039) and PCT (HR = 1.148; 95% CI: 1.105 to 1.314; p = 0.015) were independent predictors of death in patients.

Conclusion

The ratio of PCT/SDI was a more valuable marker in predicting the 28-day prognosis in patients with SBP.
Is type III prostatitis also associated with bacterial infection?
Authors: Song Wei-Jie , Gao Jun , Huang Ji-Wei , Liu Yuan , Long Zhi , He Le-Ye
Published: July 2023

Objective

To explore whether type III prostatitis is related to bacterial infection by detecting the composition and function of microorganisms in expressed prostatic secretion (EPS) of patients with chronic prostatitis (CP) and healthy people.

Methods

According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 57 subjects were included in our study, divided into the healthy group, type II prostatitis group, and type III prostatitis group. 16s rRNA sequencing technique was used to detect and analyze the microbial composition of EPS in each group. Additionally, the metagenomics sequencing technique was used to further explore the function of different bacteria in the type III prostatitis group. Data analysis was performed by bioinformatics software, and the results were statistically significant when P<0.05.

Results

Many microorganisms exist in EPS in both CP patients and healthy populations. However, the relative abundance of Pseudomonas, Haemophilus, Sneathia, Allobaculum, and Enterococcus in CP patients (including type II and III) were significantly different. Still, the relative abundance of different bacteria in type II prostatitis patients was much higher than in type III. The metagenomics sequencing results for the type III prostatitis group showed that the different bacteria had certain biological functions.

Conclusion

Based on our sequencing results and previous studies, we suggest that type III prostatitis may also be caused by bacterial infection.
Probiotics: functional food ingredients with the potential to reduce hypertension
Authors: Chen Zouquan , Liang Wanjie , Liang Jie , Dou Jiaxin , Guo Fangyu , Zhang Daolei , Xu Zhenshang , Wang Ting
Published: July 2023

Hypertension is an increasingly pressing public health concern across the globe. It can be triggered by a variety of factors such as age and diet, as well as the stress of modern life. The traditional treatment of hypertension includes calcium ion blockers, angiotensin II receptor inhibitors and β-receptor blockers, but these drugs have at least some side effects. Recent studies have revealed that intestinal flora plays a vital role in maintaining and promoting human health. This is due to the type and amount of probiotics present in the flora. Probiotics can reduce hypertension symptoms through four mechanisms: regulating vascular oxidative stress, producing short-chain fatty acids, restoring endothelial cell function, and reducing inflammation. It has been reported that certain functional foods, using probiotics as their raw material, can modify the composition of intestinal flora, thus regulating hypertension symptoms. Consequently, utilizing the probiotic function of probiotics in conjunction with the properties of functional foods to treat hypertension is a novel, side-effect-free treatment method. This study seeks to summarize the various factors that contribute to hypertension, the mechanism of probiotics in mitigating hypertension, and the fermented functional foods with probiotic strains, in order to provide a basis for the development of functional foods which utilize probiotics as their raw material and may have the potential to reduce hypertension.
Automatic algorithmic driven monitoring of atrioventricular nodal re-entrant tachycardia ablation to improve procedural safety
Authors: Tam Tsz Kin , Lai Angel , Chan Joseph Y. S. , Au Alex C. K. , Chan Chin Pang , Cheng Yuet Wong , Yan Bryan P.
Published: July 2023

Background

During slow pathway modification for atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia, heart block may occur if ablation cannot be stopped in time in response to high risk electrogram features (HREF).

Objectives

To develop an automatic algorithm to monitor HREF and terminate ablation earlier than human reaction.

Methods

Digital electrogram data from 332 ablation runs from February 2020 to June 2022 were included. They were divided into training and validation sets which contained 126 and 206 ablation runs respectively. HREF in training set was measured. Then a program was developed with cutoff values decided from training set to capture all these HREF. Simulation ablation videos were rendered using validation set electrogram data. The videos were played to three independent electrophysiologists who each determined when to stop ablation. Timing of ablation termination, sensitivity, and specificity were compared between human and program.

Results

Reasons for ablation termination in the training set include short AA time, short VV time, AV block and VA block. Cutoffs for the program were set to maximize program sensitivity. Sensitivity and specificity for the program in the validation set were 95.2% and 91.1% respectively, which were comparable to that of human performance at 93.5% and 95.4%. If HREF were recognized by both human and program, ablations were terminated earlier by the program 90.2% of times, by a median of 574 ms (interquartile range 412–807 ms, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Algorithmic-driven monitoring of slow pathway modification can supplement human judgement to improve ablation safety.
Identification and validation of six acute myocardial infarction-associated variants, including a novel prognostic marker for cardiac mortality
Authors: Jeon Yeonsu , Jeon Sungwon , An Kyungwhan , Kim Yeo Jin , Kim Byoung-Chul , Ryu Hyojung , Choi Whan-Hyuk , Choi HyunJoo , Kim Weon , Lee Sang Yeub , Bae Jang-Whan , Hwang Jin-Yong , Kang Min Gyu , An Seolbin , Kim Yeonkyung , Kang Younghui , Kim Byung Chul , Bhak Jong , Shin Eun-Seok
Published: July 2023

Background

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and approximately half of AMI-related deaths occur before the affected individual reaches the hospital. The present study aimed to identify and validate genetic variants associated with AMI and their role as prognostic markers.

Materials and methods

We conducted a replication study of 29 previously identified novel loci containing 85 genetic variants associated with early-onset AMI using a new independent set of 2,920 Koreans [88 patients with early- and 1,085 patients with late-onset AMI, who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), and 1,747 healthy controls].

Results

Of the 85 previously reported early-onset variants, six were confirmed in our genome-wide association study with a false discovery rate of less than 0.05. Notably, rs12639023, a cis-eQTL located in the intergenic region between LINC02005 and CNTN3, significantly increased longitudinal cardiac mortality and recurrent AMI. CNTN3 is known to play a role in altering vascular permeability. Another variant, rs78631167, located upstream of PLAUR and known to function in fibrinolysis, was moderately replicated in this study. By surveying the nearby genomic region around rs78631167, we identified a significant novel locus (rs8109584) located 13 bp downstream of rs78631167. The present study showed that six of the early-onset variants of AMI are applicable to both early- and late-onset cases.

Conclusion

Our results confirm markers that can potentially be utilized to predict, screen, prevent, and treat candidate patients with AMI and highlight the potential of rs12639023 as a prognostic marker for cardiac mortality in AMI.
Fluid evolution and metallogenesis of the Zhangjiapingzi gold deposit in mianning, Sichuan province: constraints from fluid inclusion studies
Authors: Yan Bing , Zhu Liye , Zhang Jiaqi , Lai Chuan , Yan Han , Wei Wen Feng , Jiang Haiyun
Published: July 2023

Introduction: The Zhangjiapingzi gold deposit, located at the western margin of the Yangtze Craton and controlled by the Jinhe-Chenghai deep fault, is a newly discovered super-large gold deposit in the Danba-Mianning metallogenic belt. The gold ore bodies are hosted in the Middle Triassic (T2) altered dolomite (Dm), and have two types of mineralization: altered rock type and quartz vein type. Previous studies on this deposit are rare, especially on the ore-fluid characteristics, which limit the understanding on the ore genesis.

Methods: This study focused on fluid inclusions in quartz from altered rocks, and used microthermometry and laser Raman spectroscopy to investigate the properties and sources of ore-forming fluids, and to determine the ore genetic type.

Results and discussion: The results show that the fluid inclusions are mainly CO2-H2O-NaCl inclusions, with medium temperature (220–300°C), low salinity (<10%), medium-low density (0.79–1.01 g/cm3) and high contents of CO2 and CH4, resembling typical orogenic gold ore fluids. We suggest that the Zhangjiapingzi is best classified as orogenic type, and our findings provide new insights into the fluid origin and metallogenesis of orogenic gold deposits in the Danba-Mianning metallogenic belt.
Developing a measure of educator self-efficacy around emotion co-regulation
Authors: Lindstrom Johnson Sarah , Meléndez Guevara Ana Maria , Preves Ashley
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Research suggests that one of the most pervasive consequences of traumatic events is the resulting dysregulation of emotions. Educators, including teachers, administrators, and student services staff, are instrumental in supporting students as they navigate overwhelming emotions by modeling and teaching skills to regulate emotional states (i.e., emotion co-regulation). Given the saliency of emotion co-regulation within educational contexts, this study presents the development and preliminary psychometric exploration of a measure of educator self-efficacy for co-regulation.

Methods

We examined differences by educator characteristics (gender, professional experience, role in the school) as well as previous training in trauma-informed approaches and culturally responsive strategies.

Results and discussion

Preliminary findings support the measure to be reliable and valid, with construct validity supported by positive associations to other theoretically applicable constructs such as culturally responsive strategies, as well as educator characteristics such as professional experience and role. However, a lack of association with trauma-informed training, suggests the need for additional research into supporting emotion co-regulation self-efficacy for educators.
A calibration method for SWMM to mitigate the impact of the structure defect without considering runoff on building walls
Authors: Xu Zhi , Ma Chong , Gao Xichao , Ma Yiming , Zhou Jinjun
Published: July 2023

In this study, we propose a hypothesis that an automatic calibration framework can address modeling uncertainties in the Storm Water Management Model (SWMM) due to structural defects that result in the inability of the model to account for runoff generated on building walls from wind-driven rain. To test this hypothesis, we introduce a rainfall error model into the calibration framework to indirectly consider the effects of inclined wind-driven rain on building walls. We couple the optimization algorithm Differential Evolution Adaptive Metropolis (DREAM) with SWMM using newly developed API functions. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the framework, we conduct a case study in Guangzhou, China and assess the impacts of rainfall uncertainty on model parameter estimations and simulated runoff boundaries. The results show that the framework can improve the average Nash–Sutcliffe index of selected events by more than 5%. It also captures peak flow more accurately. This framework contributes to the theory of SWMM calibration by accounting for structural defects and considering rainfall uncertainty.
Integrating wildfire resistance and environmental concerns into a sustainable forest ecosystem management approach
Authors: Ferreira Liliana , Nascimento Baptista Alexandra , Constantino Miguel , Marques Susete , Martins Isabel , Borges Jose G.
Published: July 2023

This research aims at presenting landscape management planning methods to help stakeholders select forest ecosystem management plans that may address concerns with wildfire risk and with the environmental impacts of clearcuts. Specifically, we develop mixed integer programming models for spatial optimization that incorporate a wildfire resistance index as well as constraints on the size of clearcut openings. The former is used to enforce a minimum level of resistance to wildfire while the latter limits the size of openings, in each period of the planning horizon. Timber volume even flow is another concern that is also taken into account. This research is applied to the Zonas de Intervenção Florestal (ZIF) de Paiva and de Entre-Douro e Sousa (ZIF_VS) which are located in northwestern Portugal.
Immune function of colon cancer associated miRNA and target genes
Authors: Han Lu , Chen Shiyun , Luan Zhe , Fan Mengjiao , Wang Yanrong , Sun Gang , Dai Guanghai
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Colon cancer is a complex disease that involves intricate interactions between cancer cells and theimmune microenvironment. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have recently emerged as critical regulators of gene expression in cancer, including colon cancer. There is increasing evidence suggesting that miRNA dysregulation plays a crucial role in modulating the immune microenvironment of intestinal cancer. In particular, miRNAs regulate immune cell activation, differentiation, and function, as well as cytokine and chemokine production in intestinal cancer. It is urgent to fully investigate the potential role of intestinal cancer-related miRNAs in shaping the immune microenvironment.

Methods

Therefore, this paper aims to identify miRNAs that are potentially associated with colon cancer and regulate a large number of genes related to immune function. We explored the role of these genes in colon cancer patient prognosis, immune infiltration, and tumor purity based on data of 174 colon cancer patients though convolutional neural network, survival analysis and multiple analysis tools.

Results

Our findings suggest that miRNA regulated genes play important roles in CD4 memory resting cells, macrophages.M2, and Mast cell activated cells, and they are concentrated in the cytokinecytokine receptor interaction pathway.

Discussion

Our study enhances our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of intestinal cancer and provides new insights into the development of effective therapies. Additionally, identification of miRNA biomarkers could aid in diagnosis and prognosis, as well as guide personalized treatment strategies for patients with intestinal cancer.
Case Report: Kinetics and durability of humoral and cellular response of SARS-CoV-2 messenger RNA vaccine in a lung and kidney transplant recipient
Authors: Long James , Soni Mithil , Muranski Pawel , Miller Maureen J. , Conry-Cantilena Cathleen , De Giorgi Valeria
Published: July 2023

We present a case report of a 63-year-old female health care worker who is 15 years status post double lung transplant and six years status post living related donor kidney transplant who is healthy on a chronic immunosuppression regimen including prednisone, mycophenolate, and tacrolimus who received the SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine (Pfizer-BioNTech BNT162b2) primary series and had poor initial humoral response to the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine, then demonstrated a robust, sustained immune response against S1 and S2 antigens for over seven months after receiving the recommended vaccine doses, including booster dose, without developing COVID-19 or other serious adverse events. Her immune response to vaccination indicates effective formation of anti-spike T cell memory despite chronic immunosuppression. This case report provides a comprehensive characterization of her immune response to this SARS-CoV-2 vaccination series. As vaccine effectiveness data is updated, and as better understanding of immune response including hybrid immunity emerges, these findings may reassure that recipients of SOTs may be capable of durable immune responses to emerging variants of SARS-CoV-2.
Inhibition of high-voltage-activated calcium currents by acute hypoxia in cultured retinal ganglion cells
Authors: Dumanska Hanna , Telka Mariia , Veselovsky Nikolai
Published: July 2023

Hypoxia is a common factor of numerous ocular diseases that lead to dysfunctions and loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) with subsequent vision loss. High-voltage-activated calcium channels are the main source of calcium entry into neurons. Their activity plays a central role in different signaling processes in health and diseases, such as enzyme activation, gene transcription, synaptic transmission, or the onset of cell death. This study aims to establish and evaluate the initial effect of the early stage of acute hypoxia on somatic HVA calcium currents in cultured RGCs. HVA calcium currents were recorded in RGCs using the whole-cell patch-clamp technique in the voltage-clamp mode. The fast local superfusion was used for a brief (up to 270 s) application of the hypoxic solution (pO2 < 5 mmHg). The switch from normoxic to hypoxic solutions and vice versa was less than 1 s. The HVA calcium channel activity was inhibited by acute hypoxia in 79% of RGCs (30 of 38 RGCs) in a strong voltage-dependent manner. The level of inhibition was independent of the duration of hypoxia or repeated applications. The hypoxia-induced inhibition of calcium currents had a strong correlation with the duration of hypoxia and showed the transition from reversible to irreversible at 75 s of hypoxia and longer. The results obtained are the first demonstration of the phenomena of HVA calcium current inhibition by acute hypoxia in RGCs and provide a conceptual framework for further research.
Online spike-based recognition of digits with ultrafast microlaser neurons
Authors: Masominia Amir , Calvet Laurie E. , Thorpe Simon , Barbay Sylvain
Published: July 2023

Classification and recognition tasks performed on photonic hardware-based neural networks often require at least one offline computational step, such as in the increasingly popular reservoir computing paradigm. Removing this offline step can significantly improve the response time and energy efficiency of such systems. We present numerical simulations of different algorithms that utilize ultrafast photonic spiking neurons as receptive fields to allow for image recognition without an offline computing step. In particular, we discuss the merits of event, spike-time and rank-order based algorithms adapted to this system. These techniques have the potential to significantly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of optical classification systems, minimizing the number of spiking nodes required for a given task and leveraging the parallelism offered by photonic hardware.
Assessment of the relationship between generalized convulsive epilepsy and systemic inflammatory regulators: a bidirectional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Wang Shengnan , Su Tengfei , Pang Shuyan , Wang Jianglong , Lang Yue , Zhu Mingqin , Cui Li
Published: July 2023

Background

Generalized convulsive epilepsy (GCE), an important subtype of epilepsy, is a syndrome of neuronal dysfunction characterized by diffuse abnormal discharge of neurons within the brain. Compounding evidence suggests a correlation between epilepsy and inflammatory factors, for instance, cyclooxygenase-2, interleukin-1β, and interleukin-6. Elevated levels of inflammatory factors have been observed in patients with epilepsy and several animal models. Therefore, inflammation may be closely associated with the pathogenesis and progression of GCE. However, the cause-and-effect relationship between the two is difficult to determine because of small sample sizes and confounding factors.

Methods

To test for causality of the 41 cytokines on GCE, we conducted a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) based on the largest and latest genome-wide association study (GWAS) involving 290 cases and 453,521 European controls and a GWAS meta-analysis consisting of 41 cytokines from 8,293 individuals.

Results

R confirmed a bidirectional causal link between cytokines and GCE. Genetically predicted increased levels of hepatocyte growth factor and decreased levels of eotaxin and interleukin-18 are associated with an increased risk of GCE (OR = 1.904, 95% CI = 1.019–3.561, p = 0.044; OR = 0.641, 95% CI = 0.417–0.984, p = 0.042; OR = 0.482, 95% CI = 0.251–0.927, p = 0.046). Furthermore, the presence of GCE is related to an increase in levels of multiple cytokines, such as macrophage inflammatory protein-1α, interleukin-12p70, interleukin-17, interleukin-1 receptor antagonist, and basic fibroblast growth factor (OR = 1.038, 95% CI = 1.005–1.073, p = 0.024; OR = 1.031, 95% CI = 1.009–1.054, p = 0.006; OR = 1.027, 95% CI = 1.002–1.053, p = 0.037; OR = 1.037, 95% CI = 1.003–1.072, p = 0.032; OR = 1.032, 95% CI = 1.000–1.066, p = 0.048; OR = 1.025, 95% CI = 1.003–1.048, p = 0026).

Conclusion

A bidirectional causal link existed between inflammation and GCE. Detecting significantly altered factor concentrations may be of great significance for screening GCE and predicting their occurrence. Moreover, available pharmacological treatments for GCE are focused primarily on suppressing seizures. In future, altering the concentration of these cytokines in the body through targeted anti-inflammatory therapy to modify the epileptogenic mechanism and prevent the recurrence and refractoriness of GCE may become the key to new treatments.
An embodiment of the cinematographer: emotional and perceptual responses to different camera movement techniques
Authors: Yilmaz Mehmet Burak , Lotman Elen , Karjus Andres , Tikka Pia
Published: July 2023

We investigate the relationship between camera movement techniques and cognitive responses in audiences, reporting on an experiment exploring the effects of different camera movement methods on viewers' degree of immersion and emotional response. This follows directly from preceding experimental literature and is further motivated by accounts and experiences of practicing cinematographers (authors included), which indicates a correspondence between the two. We designed three different cinematic scenes with indifferent moods, and shot each one time with Steadicam, dolly, handheld, and static camera, resulting in 12 different clips. A total of 44 non-professional participants watched the clips and rated their reactions in terms of arousal and degree of involvement. Experimental results are mixed: movement affects the sense of involvement but not necessarily emotional response. We present and discuss some further explorative results and possible future directions to improve the design. We argue in this contribution that there is value in experimental approaches to cinematography, enabling the systematic study of creative intuitions and audience responses in controlled settings.
Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm of the biliary tract in the caudate lobe of the liver: a case report and literature review
Authors: Zhu Xunhao , Ni Qingqiang , Wang Qianchang , Ma Chaoqun , Yang Faji , Gao Hengjun , Zhu Huaqiang , Zhou Xu , Chang Hong , Lu Jun , Liu Fangfeng
Published: July 2023

An intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm of the biliary tract (BT-IPMN) in the caudate lobe of the liver is a rare tumor originating from the bile duct. Approximately 40% of the intraductal papillary neoplasms of the biliary tract (IPNB) secrete mucus and can grow in the intrahepatic or extrahepatic bile ducts. A 65-year-old woman presented with recurrent episodes of right upper pain. She developed her first episode 8 years ago, which resolved spontaneously. The frequency of symptoms has increased in the last 2 years. She underwent laparoscopic hepatectomy and choledochal exploration and was pathologically diagnosed with a rare BT-IPMN of the caudate lobe after admission. Here, we review studies on IPNB cases and systematically describe the pathological type, diagnosis, and treatment of IPNB to provide a valuable reference for hepatobiliary surgeons in the diagnosis and treatment of this disease.
Ascites-derived CDCP1+ extracellular vesicles subcluster as a novel biomarker and therapeutic target for ovarian cancer
Authors: Kong Lingnan , Xu Famei , Yao Yukuan , Gao Zhihui , Tian Peng , Zhuang Shichao , Wu Di , Li Tangyue , Cai Yanling , Li Jing
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Ovarian cancer (OVCA) is one of the most prevalent malignant tumors of the female reproductive system, and its diagnosis is typically accompanied by the production of ascites. Although liquid biopsy has been widely implemented recently, the diagnosis or prognosis of OVCA based on liquid biopsy remains the primary emphasis.

Methods

In this study, using proximity barcoding assay, a technique for analyzing the surface proteins on single extracellular vesicles (EVs). For validation, serum and ascites samples from patients with epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) were collected, and their levels of CDCP1 was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Tissue chips were prepared to analyze the relationship between different expression levels of CDCP1 and the prognosis of ovarian cancer patients.

Results

We discovered that the CUB domain-containing protein 1+ (CDCP1+) EVs subcluster was higher in the ascites of OVCA patients compared to benign ascites. At the same time, the level of CDCP1 was considerably elevated in the ascites of OVCA patients. The overall survival and disease-free survival of the group with high CDCP1 expression in EOC were significantly lower than those of the group with low expression. In addition, the receiver operating characteristic curve demonstrates that EVs-derived CDCP1 was a biomarker of early response in OVCA ascites.

Discussion

Our findings identified a CDCP1+ EVs subcluster in the ascites of OVCA patients as a possible biomarker for EOC prevention.
Genomic determinants in advanced endometrial cancer patients with sustained response to hormonal therapy- case series and review of literature
Authors: Chukkalore Divya , Rajavel Anisha , Asti Divya , Dhar Meekoo
Published: July 2023

The incidence of endometrial cancer is increasing, however treatment options for advanced disease are limited. Hormonal therapy has demonstrated positive outcomes for Stage IV EC. Next generation sequencing (NGS) has increased our understanding of molecular mechanisms driving EC. In this case series, we selected six patients at our institution with Stage IV, hormone receptor positive, endometrial cancer currently being treated with hormonal therapy. All patients achieved SD for at least ≥ 1.5 years. We studied NGS data on all six patients to assess for any common genomic marker which could predict the SD of at least 1.5 years achieved in this group. Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval was obtained from Staten Island University Hospital and Northwell Health, New York. PTEN, PIK3CA, PIK3R1, and ARID1A mutations were found in 83%, 67% 50%, and 67% of patients respectively. TP53 and FGFR2 were both found in 50% of patients. All patients were positive for estrogen and/or progesterone receptor (ER+ and/or PR+). We did not find any one common mutation that could have predicted the observed response (or SD of ≥1.5 years) to hormone therapy. However, our data reflects the prevalence of various mutations reported in literature: (1) Hormone Receptor status is a positive prognostic indicator (2) PTEN/PIK3CA mutations can occur concurrently in EC (3) ARID1A coexists with PTEN (4) FGFR and PTEN pathways may be interlinked. We suggest NGS be employed frequently in patients with endometrial cancer to identify targetable mutations. Additional larger studies are needed to characterize the interplay between mutations.
Case Report: Cytomegalovirus-specific T-lymphocyte infusion for resistant cytomegalovirus retinitis
Authors: Saban Tal , Shargian Liat , Eiger-Moscovitch Maya , Prockop Susan , Doubrovina Ekatarina , Yeshurun Moshe , Kramer Michal
Published: July 2023

Purpose

We hereby describe a case of persistent cytomegalovirus (CMV) viremia and retinitis following allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) that was successfully treated with infusion of CMV-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) despite previous treatment with Epstein Bar Virus (EBV) -specific CTL, which occurred 5 months earlier.

Observations

Following several anti- viral medication treatment trials that failed to eradicate the infectious process, the patient was treated with infusions of CMV-CTL from a biobank of cryopreserved virus-specific cells. Shortly after the first infusion, a remarkable response was noted. A few days after the second infusion, the retinitis resolved completely. No recurrence was noted at the one-year follow-up, and there was no evidence of GVHD.

Conclusions and importance

The case is unique for two reasons: use of virus-specific CTL for an indication of CMV retinitis; and successive administration, in the same patient, of third-party virus-specific CTL to treat two different infections (Epstein-Barr virus and cytomegalovirus) on two separate occasions following hematopoietic cell transplantation.
Risk and protective factors related to having a child with congenital heart diseases (CHD): a case-control study in Iran
Authors: Amini-Rarani Mostafa , Karimi Salah Eddin , SoleimanvandiAzar Neda , Nosratabadi Mehdi
Published: July 2023

Background

The heart is the first fully developed organ in early pregnancy, especially in the first trimester of pregnancy, so any factor that contributes to heart failure is life-threatening. Thus, it is important to identify the risk and preventive factors related to this disease and to provide a scientific basis for the control, prevention, management and treatment of Child with Congenital Heart Diseases (CHD).

Objectives

As the etiology of CHD is multifactorial, to identify the risk and preventive factors, this study aimed to investigate the factors related to CHD in Tehran, Iran.

Methods

The present case-control study was performed on 600 people including 200 mothers of children with CHD. Simple random sampling was performed in 2020. The control group was matched with the case group, and the data were analyzed by SPSS software at a significance level of 0.5.

Results

The results showed that low socioeconomic status, low education, history of abortion, smoking, alcohol consumption are risk factors, and consumption of folic acid, and prenatal care are the protective factors against CHD.

Conclusion

According to the findings, our emphasis should be on preventive strategies, education of mothers and public health experts on the need for folic acid and pregnancy care, and cessation or reduction of alcohol and tobacco use, especially in families with low socioeconomic status and low level of education.
Analysis of clinical characteristics and health resource costs in children hospitalised for injuries in southern Sichuan, China
Authors: Lu ZiWei , Wang YinSu , Nie Min , Li JiaQin , Yu YanHong , Zhuang Yuan , Mao Xiaoyan , Shen Xing
Published: July 2023

Aim

To investigate the clinical characteristics and health resource costs among children hospitalised for injuries in southern Sichuan, China, and to provide guidance for prevention and treatment.

Methods

We collected clinical data concerning children aged from 29 days to 18 years hospitalised for injuries from January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2021, retrospectively analysing the basic characteristics, evolution of injury characteristics over time, risk factors for events with adverse outcomes, and health resource costs.

Results

Among 5,826 hospitalised children with injuries, males (63.6%), those in rural areas (40.3%), and adolescents (33.5%) were most commonly injured. Most injuries occurred at home (52.6%), and during summer. The most common injury types were falls, burns, road traffic injuries, poisoning, and foreign body injuries (32.0%, 17.9%, 13.6%, 8.8%, and 7.9%, respectively). After 2019, the proportion of intentional injuries among adolescent girls was significantly higher. Road traffic injuries most commonly led to poor clinical outcomes (95%CI: 5.39–31.51), followed by falls (95%CI: 2.20–10.67). Adolescents were at higher risk of poor prognosis. Injuries occurring in rural areas, adolescents, road traffic injuries, and falls cost high health resource.

Conclusion

Injuries among children remain serious, with males and adolescents from villages predominantly affected. Attention should be paid to intentional injuries among adolescent females also. Targeted prevention and control measures for road traffic injuries and falls should be strengthened.
Psychiatric adverse reactions to non-selective RET multi-kinase inhibitors: a large-scale pharmacovigilance analysis
Authors: Wang Xuyan , Yin Donghong , Tang Yang , Xiao Feng , Wang Shuyun
Published: July 2023

Objective: The development of non-selective multi-kinase inhibitors (MKIs) has improved the. survival outcomes of patients with cancers. Psychiatric disorders represent an MKIs related AE of particular concern, as they are often ignored and may harm the patient’s personal and social functioning. Therefore, we use the public database to describe and evaluate psychiatric adverse events related to various non-selective RET MKIs. Provide evidence for optimizing drug administration in the clinic.

Methods: We analyzed spontaneous reports submitted to the Food and Drug Administration Adverse Events Reporting System FDA Adverse Event Reporting System in an observational and retrospective manner. Selecting psychiatric AEs to non-selective RET multikinase inhibitors (sorafenib, lenvatinib, vandetanib, cabozantinib, and sunitinib). We used Reporting Odds Ratio (ROR), Proportional Reporting Ratio (PRR), Bayesian Confidence Propagation Neural Network (BCPNN), and multi-item gamma Poisson shrinker (MGPS) algorithms to analyze suspected adverse reactions of psychiatric related induced by non-selective RET MKIs between January 2004 and September 2022.

Results: As of September 2022, 1,108 non-selective RET MKIs ICSRs were related to psychiatric AEs. 706 were ADR ICSRs, and 402 were non-ADR ICSRs. There were more ADR cases in males (69.5%), and 71.8% of the cases were submitted from North America. The age group most frequently affected by psychiatric ADRs was individuals aged 50–64 years for sorafenib, whereas 65–74 years for sunitinib, cabozantinib, and lenvatinib. In all psychiatric ADRs ICSRs, excluding missing data (n = 329), the most common adverse outcome was hospitalization (260/377, 69.0%), and the most serious was death (100/377, 26.5%). What calls for special attention is that the percentage of death rate for sunitinib was highest (24/54, 44.4%) in sunitinib-related psychiatric ADRs ICSRs, (excluding missing data, n = 44), followed by lenvatinib (4/14, 28.6%). Based on ROR, PRR, BCPNN, and MGPS methods, sorafenib, sunitinib, cabozantinib, and lenvatinib are significantly associated with all ADRs, the strongest association was the association between cabozantinib and feeding disorder.

Conclusion: Despite the limitations, our study found that, except for vandetanib, other four drugs have been reported to have significant psychiatric side effects. Clinicians need to recognize and monitor these potentially fatal adverse events. If it is suitable for treatment with vandetanib, doctors should choose vandetanib for treatment.
New symmetry reduction method for (1+1)-dimensional differential-difference equations
Authors: Lyu Jielin , Shi Kaizhong , Ren Bo , Jin Yongyang
Published: July 2023

We propose a new symmetry reduction method for (1+1)-dimensional differential-difference equations (DDEs), namely, the λ-symmetry reduction method of solving ordinary differential equations is generalized to DDEs. Order-reduction processes are a consequence of the invariance of the given DDE under vector fields of the new class. These vector fields satisfy a new prolongation formula. A simple example of order-reduction is provided to illustrate the application.
Effects of peripheral electromagnetic stimulation after an eccentric exercise-induced delayed-onset muscle soreness protocol in professional soccer players: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Keriven Hugo , Sánchez-Sierra Alberto , Miñambres-Martín Diego , González de la Flor Ángel , García-Pérez-de-Sevilla Guillermo , Domínguez-Balmaseda Diego
Published: July 2023

Introduction: To examine the effects of peripheral electromagnetic stimulation in male professional soccer players on markers of Delayed Onset Muscular Soreness (DOMS), induced by a protocol of exercise (60 min of eccentric and plyometric).

Methods: A randomized controlled trial with fourty-five professional soccer players aged 22.33 ± 4.82 years participated in the study. Twenty-three participants were assigned to the experimental group with peripheral electromagnetic stimulation (5 stimulations of 5 s at 100 HZ with 55 s of rest for a total of 5 min of treatment) and the remaining 22 participants were assigned to the control group. Pain pressure threshold (PPT) of the vastus medialis, the Visual Analogue Scale-Fatigue (VAS-F), half squat (HS) test and the maximum voluntary contraction of the quadriceps were assessed. All evaluations were performed before and after 1 h of the eccentric exercise induced DOMS, as well as at post 24–48, and 72 h.

Results: Group-by-time interaction was observed in PPT of the vastus medialis (p = 0.040) with a medium effect size (η2p = 0.069). From 48 to 72 h the experimental group showed an increase of PPT compared to control group (p = 0.015). There was no group-by-time interaction for HS, quadriceps strength and VAS-F (p > 0.05).

Discussion: Peripheral electromagnetic stimulation in male professional soccer players did not produce significant improvements in the power and strength of the lower limbs but decreased the peripheral sensitization of the vastus medialis after eccentric exercise protocol.

Clinical Trial Registration:https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=384050&isReview=true, Identifier: ACTRN12622000841774.
Single-step genome-wide association study for susceptibility to Teratosphaeria nubilosa and precocity of vegetative phase change in Eucalyptus globulus
Authors: Quezada Marianella , Giorello Facundo Matias , Da Silva Cecilia Corina , Aguilar Ignacio , Balmelli Gustavo
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Mycosphaerella leaf disease (MLD) is one of the most prevalent foliar diseases of Eucalyptus globulus plantations around the world. Since resistance management strategies have not been effective in commercial plantations, breeding to develop more resistant genotypes is the most promising strategy. Available genomic information can be used to detect genomic regions associated with resistance to MLD, which could significantly speed up the process of genetic improvement.

Methods

We investigated the genetic basis of MLD resistance in a breeding population of E. globulus which was genotyped with the EUChip60K SNP array. Resistance to MLD was evaluated through resistance of the juvenile foliage, as defoliation and leaf spot severity, and through precocity of change to resistant adult foliage. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) were carried out applying four Single-SNP models, a Genomic Best Linear Unbiased Prediction (GBLUP-GWAS) approach, and a Single-step genome-wide association study (ssGWAS).

Results

The Single-SNP (model K) and GBLUP-GWAS models detected 13 and 16 SNP-trait associations in chromosomes 2, 3 y 11; whereas the ssGWAS detected 66 SNP-trait associations in the same chromosomes, and additional significant SNP-trait associations in chromosomes 5 to 9 for the precocity of phase change (proportion of adult foliage). For this trait, the two main regions in chromosomes 3 and 11 were identified for the three approaches. The SNPs identified in these regions were positioned near the key miRNA genes, miR156.5 and miR157.4, which have a main role in the regulation of the timing of vegetative change, and also in the response to environmental stresses in plants.

Discussion

Our results demonstrated that ssGWAS was more powerful in detecting regions that affect resistance than conventional GWAS approaches. Additionally, the results suggest a polygenic genetic architecture for the heteroblastic transition in E. globulus and identified useful SNP markers for the development of marker-assisted selection strategies for resistance to MLD.
Unilateral cross-incompatibility between Camellia oleifera and C. yuhsienensis provides new insights for hybridization in Camellia spp
Authors: Gong Han , Chang Yihong , Xu Jinming , Yu Xinran , Gong Wenfang
Published: July 2023

Camellia yuhsienensis was used to cross with Camellia oleifera to improve the resistance of oil camellia anthracnose. However, unilateral cross-incompatibility (UCI) between C. oleifera and C. yuhsienensis was found during the breeding process. Five C.oleifera cultivars and four C. uhsienensis materials were tested to confirm the UCI between C. oleifera and C. yuhsienensis. ‘Huashuo’ (HS) and ‘Youza 2’ (YZ2) were used to represent these two species to characterize the UCI, including pollen tube growth, fertilization and fruit development. The results demonstrated that UCI was prevalent between C. oleifera and C. yuhsienensis. The asynchronous flowering period was a pre-pollination barrier that limited mating between these two species under natural conditions. Interspecific pollen tubes were observed through the styles of these two plants, though the growth rates differed considerably. At 96 hours after pollination, the pollen tube of YZ2 barely entered the ovule, but remained at the base of the style and became swollen. However, the HS pollen tube entered the ovule 48 hours after pollination, double fertilization was observed, and the fruit and seeds developed commonly. Relative to compatible combinations, most unfertilized ovules in incompatible combinations failed to grow, turned brown 150 days after pollination, and the fruits were smaller than expected with uneven enlargement. Investigations on both semi-in vivo and in vitro pollen tubes gave us new idea for thought: the HS style has a stronger inhibitory effect on the interspecific pollen tubes, while calcium alleviates the inhibitory of styles but failed to prevent the appearance of abnormal pollen tube morphology. This study provides useful information on interspecific hybridization between C. oleifera and C. yuhsienensis for understanding reproductive isolation mechanisms and breeding programs in genus Camellia.