bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genomic variation induced by a low concentration of ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS) in quinoa ‘Longli-4’ variety
Authors: Li Xiaofeng , Cui Xiaoyun , Ran Ruilan , Chen Guoxiong , Zhao Pengshan
Published: July 2024

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa, 2n = 4x = 36), a super pseudocereal crop, has been introduced into China nearly 60 years. Many excellent varieties have been developed through massive selection; however, few are developed through mutagenesis breeding. In this study, the ‘Longli-4’ variety, locally cultivated in Gansu province, Northwest China, was selected for experimentation. The grains of ‘Longli-4’ were treated with ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS) at a concentration of 0.8% for 8 h. Nine plants from independent M2 families were randomly selected to investigate the mutagenesis effect of EMS on the quinoa genome. The results indicated that the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) induced by EMS were unevenly distributed across all 18 chromosomes, with an average mutation frequency of 91.2 SNPs/Mb, ranging from 4.5 to 203.5 SNPs/Mb. A significant positive correlation between the number of SNPs and chromosome length was identified through linear model analysis. Transitions from G/C to A/T were the most predominated in all variant categories, accounting for 34.4–67.2% of the mutations, and SNPs were significantly enriched in intergenic regions, representing 69.2–75.1% of the total mutations. This study provides empirical support for the application of low concentration EMS treatment in quinoa breeding.
Lead and calcium crosstalk tempted acrosome damage and hyperpolarization of spermatozoa: signaling and ultra-structural evidences
Authors: Yadav Rajkumar Singh , Kushawaha Bhawna , Dhariya Rahul , Swain Dilip Kumar , Yadav Brijesh , Anand Mukul , Kumari Priyambada , Rai Pradeep Kumar , Singh Dipty , Yadav Sarvajeet , Garg Satish Kumar
Published: July 2024

Background

Exposure of humans and animals to heavy metals is increasing day-by-day; thus, lead even today remains of significant public health concern. According to CDC, blood lead reference value (BLRV) ranges from 3.5 µg/dl to 5 μg/dl in adults. Recently, almost 2.6% decline in male fertility per year has been reported but the cause is not well established. Lead (Pb2+) affects the size of testis, semen quality, and secretory functions of prostate. But the molecular mechanism(s) of lead toxicity in sperm cells is not clear. Thus, present study was undertaken to evaluate the adverse effects of lead acetate at environmentally relevant exposure levels (0.5, 5, 10 and 20 ppm) on functional and molecular dynamics of spermatozoa of bucks following in vitro exposure for 15 min and 3 h.

Results

Lead significantly decreased motility, viable count, and motion kinematic patterns of spermatozoa like curvilinear velocity, straight-line velocity, average path velocity, beat cross frequency and maximum amplitude of head lateral displacement even at 5 ppm concentration. Pb2+ modulated intracellular cAMP and Ca2+ levels in sperm cells through L-type calcium channels and induced spontaneous or premature acrosome reaction (AR) by increasing tyrosine phosphorylation of sperm proteins and downregulated mitochondrial transmembrane potential. Lead significantly increased DNA damage and apoptosis as well. Electron microscopy studies revealed Pb2+ -induced deleterious effects on plasma membrane of head and acrosome including collapsed cristae in mitochondria.

Conclusions

Pb2+ not only mimics Ca2+ but also affects cellular targets involved in generation of cAMP, mitochondrial transmembrane potential, and ionic exchange. Lead seems to interact with Ca2+ channels because of charge similarity and probably enters the sperm cell through these channels and results in hyperpolarization. Our findings also indicate lead-induced TP and intracellular Ca2+ release in spermatozoa which in turn may be responsible for premature acrosome exocytosis which is essential feature of capacitation for fertilization. Thus, lead seems to reduce the fertilizing capacity of spermatozoa even at 0.5 ppm concentrations.

Graphical Abstract
Perinatal mortality and its predictors in Beni City, Democratic Republic of Congo: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kahiririaa Mathe Julien , Namyalo Josephine , Mubarak Nasur , Otieno Emmanuel
Published: July 2024

Background

Globally, perinatal mortality rates have decreased considerably in the last 30 years. However, in sub-Saharan African countries perinatal mortality remains a public health burden. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the Perinatal Mortality Rate and the factors associated with perinatal mortality in Beni City, Northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

Methods

A hospital-based retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted among 1394 deliveries that were documented in Beni General Referral Hospital from 2 January to May 31, 2022. The study was done in the conflict-ridden Beni city of the North Kivu Province. Analysis was done using Open Epi and SPSS version 22. Binary and Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed. Odds ratio with 95% confidence interval was used to measure strength of association.

Results

Findings indicate that 60.7% of 1394 participants were below the age of 21 years, and 95.1% (1325) Beni residents. The Perinatal Mortality Rate was 42.3 per 1000 live births. Majority (51) of the postpartum women who experienced perinatal mortality didn`t have a history of perinatal mortality as compared to their counterparts. Multivariable analysis revealed that birth weight (AoR = 0.082, 95% CI 0.014–0.449, p < 0.05) and Apgar score in the 10th minute (AoR = 0.082, 95% CI 0.000- 0.043, p < 0.05) were significantly associated with Perinatal mortality.

Conclusion

The high perinatal mortality rate in Beni General Referral Hospital, approximately four in every 100 births remains a disturbing public health concern of which is attributable to low birth weight and Apgar score. This study may help policy-makers and healthcare providers to design preventive interventions.
Development of an HPLC method using relative molar sensitivity for the measurement of blood concentrations of nine pharmaceutical compounds
Authors: Ohtsuki Takashi , Huang Yi , Kamiya Ayane , Nakayama Yuki , Matsushita Miyuki , Morikawa Satoru , Matsufuji Hiroshi
Published: July 2024

We developed a reliable high-performance liquid chromatographic analysis method using a relative molar sensitivity (RMS) technique that does not require an authentic, identical reference analyte material to quantify blood serum carbamazepine, phenytoin, voriconazole, lamotrigine, meropenem, mycophenolic acid, linezolid, vancomycin, and caffeine levels for routine blood concentration measurements. Carbamazepine and caffeine were also used as non-analyte reference materials to calculate the RMS of each analyte. The RMS was calculated from the ratio of the slope of the calibration equation (analyte/non-analyte reference material), then used to quantify analytes in control serum samples spiked with carbamazepine, phenytoin, voriconazole, meropenem, mycophenolic acid, linezolid or vancomycin. In addition, the concentrations of these six drugs in control serum samples determined by the proposed RMS method agreed well with that obtained using a conventional method. The proposed RMS method is a promising tool for the clinical determination of nine drugs, given the accuracy, precision, and efficiency of quantifying these analytes.
Gamma knife radio surgery for cerebral arteriovenous malformation (AVM) in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical outcomes
Authors: Florez-Perdomo William Andrés , Reyes Bello Juan Sebastián , Moscote Salazar Luis Rafael , Agrawal Amit , Janjua Tariq , Chavda Vishal , García-Ballestas Ezequiel , Abdulla Ebtesam
Published: July 2024

This article aims to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of Gamma Knife radiosurgery as a treatment modality for pediatric cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) by assessing mortality rates, the rate of complete AVM obliteration, and the incidence of complications while exploring potential risk factors. A comprehensive search was conducted through multiple databases to identify relevant studies, including randomized controlled trials and observational studies. The studies were assessed for risk of bias using the ROBINS-I tool and methodological quality with the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Data on mortality, AVM obliteration rates, and complications were systematically extracted. Pooled rate analysis was performed to assess outcomes, and heterogeneity was evaluated. The analysis included 21 studies involving 2142 pediatric patients with cerebral AVMs. A low mortality rate of 0.75% (95% CI 0.09% to 2.71%) and a high rate of complete obliteration of AVMs was observed, with a rate of 71.64% (95% CI 65.716% to 77.211%). Complications, including new neurological deficits, post-radiosurgery intracranial hemorrhage, and other complications (such as seizures and radiation-related issues), were relatively low, with rates of 2.57%, 2.463%, and 4.784%, respectively. Gamma Knife radiosurgery demonstrates its potential as a safe and effective treatment option for pediatric cerebral AVMs. The low mortality rate and high rate of AVM obliteration suggest that this approach offers significant benefits. While some complications were observed, they were generally non-severe. However, further high-quality studies with extended follow-up periods are needed to better understand long-term efficacy and safety.
Effect of 8 weeks of cognitive behavioral therapy versus 8 weeks core stabilization training in the management of subjects with non-specific low back pain: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Abdelhaleem Mahmoud D. , Aly Soby M. , Taha Taher S. , Abdallah Ehab A.
Published: July 2024

Background

Patients with chronic pain usually regard pain as a stressful situation. The literature revealed that chronic pain is associated with social and cognitive dysfunction. Recently, the literature started to support using cognitive behavioral therapy to reduce the effect of chronic nonspecific low back pain.

Objectives

The study aimed to assess the effect of cognitive behavioral therapy versus core stabilization training in the treatment of subjects with non-specific chronic low back pain.

Methods

Ninety subjects were enrolled in the current study, with mean age (32.30 ± 4.38) and mean weight (72.27 ± 10.88). They were equally randomized into three equal groups A, B, and C using opaque envelopes and computer-generalized numbers. Group A received cognitive behavioral therapy plus traditional treatment, group B received a core stabilization training program plus traditional treatment, and group C received only traditional treatment. Visual Analog Scale, Fear Avoidance and Belief Questionnaire, and Oswestry Disability Index were used pre- and post-treatment to measure the outcomes in response to the treatment plans.

Results

Statistical analysis revealed that there was a significant decrease in the Visual Analog Scale, Fear Avoidance and Belief Questionnaire, and Oswestry Disability Index post-treatment compared with pre-treatment in group A (P < 0.001), group B (P < 0.001), and group C (P < 0.001). Also, the results revealed that there was a significant decrease in the Visual Analog Scale, Fear Avoidance and Belief Questionnaire work/lifestyle, and Oswestry Disability Index of group A compared with group B (P < 0.05) and group C (P < 0.001) and a significant decrease in outcome measures in group B compared with group C (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The results of the current study support the involvement of cognitive therapy in the management of chronic pain as it guides the patient to be aware of the underlying mechanism of chronic pain and the management maneuvers to overcome such pain. Also, the results provide credit to cognitive behavioral therapy in terms of long-term relief of chronic pain.
Left Internal Capsule Cavernoma Using the Superior Frontal Sulcus as a Surgical Corridor: Why and How to Do It: 2-Dimensional Operative Video
Authors: Salvagni Felipe Pereira , Jiménez Luis Ángel Canache , Aguaisa Edgar David Tenelema , Apaza-Tintaya René Alejandro , Biondi-Soares Luis Gustavo , Paitán Alexander Feliciano Vilcahuamán , dos Santos Bruna Bastiani , Soto Pedro Henrique Teixeira , Palavani Lucca Biolcati , Chaddad-Neto Feres
Published: July 2024

Cavernous angioma is a sinusoidal dilatation covered by a single layer of endothelium, separated by a collagen matrix with elastin and smooth muscle.
1
The prevalence in the general population is estimated at 0.4% to 0.9%,
2
representing around 5% to 10% of all vascular malformations.
3
Studies indicate 9% to 35% of cavernomas are found in deep locations such as the brainstem, thalamus, and basal ganglia.
4-6
Common symptoms of these deep lesions are cranial nerve deficit, hemiparesis, and paresthesia. These lesions have high rates of rebleeding after the first episode of bleeding but present excellent results of surgical resection and modified Rankin in the long term.
7-13
Internal capsule cavernomas are particularly challenging due to the important projection fibers surround them. Although the gold standard of treatment is microsurgery, there needs to be a consensus on the best approach for lesions of this topography. We present a video case of a female in her 50s with right hemiparesis and dysphasia, exhibiting grade 3/5 strength on the right side. T1 MRI revealed a high intensity, heterogeneous, multinodular signal in the left basal ganglia, with tractography showing the lesion dividing the posterior limb of the internal capsule amid fibers of the right corticospinal tract. The patient consented to the procedure and to the publication of his/her image. This study was approved by the Ethics and Research Committee of our institution. We demonstrated that the superior frontal sulcus is a safe corridor to surgically cure cavernomas of the internal capsule, with the recovery of previous deficits.
Thermal and precipitation conditions during the long May weekend in Poland and their circulation condition
Authors: Mendel Karolina , Tomczyk Arkadiusz M. , Schevchenko Olga
Published: July 2024

The objective of the study was to characterise the thermal and precipitation conditions in Poland during the long May weekend and to determine their circulation conditions. This study was based on mean daily air temperature values and daily precipitation totals for the period of 1–3 May in the years 1966–2023. The data were obtained from the resources of the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management – National Research Institute, and made it possible to calculate the mean air temperature for long May weekends in all stations, as well as the precipitation totals. The study revealed the spatial variability of thermal conditions during the May weekend in Poland. The coolest areas were north- ern regions, and particularly the Baltic coast, because of the cooling effect of the sea. The warmest regions were the southern and southwestern areas of the country. Spatial variability was also observed for the precipitation totals. The lowest totals were primarily recorded in central Poland and in the northern regions. Three groups of May weekends were designated in the years under study. The first group was characterised by lower than average air temperature, but higher precipitation, the second one by lower than average air temperature and lower precipitation, and in the third group air temperature was high- er than the average, and precipitation was lower. Each of the types was characterised by a different baric situation.
Um pensador incansável: dos dois métodos ao novo desenvolvimentismo
Authors: Milaré Luís Felipe Lopes
Published: July 2024

O objetivo deste artigo é apresentar ao leitor duas importantes contribuições do professor Luiz Carlos Bresser-Pereira para o estudo das Ciências Econômicas: o entendimento dos métodos histórico-dedutivo e hipotético-dedutivo, utilizados para se analisarem os sistemas econômicos; e a teoria do novo desenvolvimentismo – uma proposta alternativa ao neoliberalismo na busca pelo catching-up e pelo desenvolvimento de países periféricos. Para tanto, o artigo foi dividido em três seções principais, além da introdução e conclusão. Na primeira seção, são apresentados os dois métodos utilizados para se analisarem os sistemas econômicos – o método histórico-dedutivo e o método hipotético-dedutivo; é explicado que o método histórico-dedutivo tem como critério de verdade a coerência com a realidade, ao passo que o método hipotético-dedutivo tem como critério de verdade a coerência lógica. Argumenta-se que o método histórico-dedutivo deve ser utilizado em precedência ao método hipotético-dedutivo, que deve ser utilizado de maneira auxiliar. Na segunda seção, é apresentada a teoria do novo desenvolvimentismo. Argumenta-se que é papel do Estado garantir que as cinco variáveis macroeconômicas – taxa de lucro, taxa de juros, taxa de câmbio, salários e taxa de inflação – estejam nos patamares adequados; apresenta-se, também, o problema enfrentado por países em desenvolvimento – a doença holandesa – e uma proposta de neutralização. Na terceira seção, será realizada uma breve reflexão sobre a obra de Bresser-Pereira e o motivo pelo qual é considerado um pensador incansável.
Η χρήση πρωτοκόλλων χαμηλής δόσης ακτινοβολίας στην υπολογιστική τομογραφία για την διάγνωση και παρακολούθηση πνευμονικών λοιμώξεων σε ασθενείς με αιματολογικές κακοήθειες
Authors: Αγαδάκος Ευθύμιος
Published: July 2024

Η έρευνα στοχεύει στην αξιολόγηση της διαγνωστικής απόδοσης της Υπολογιστικής Τομογραφίας θώρακος χαμηλής δόσης (LDCCT) στην ανίχνευση πνευμονικών λοιμώξεων σε ουδετεροπενικούς ασθενείς με αιματολογικές κακοήθειες. Κινούμενη από τις ανησυχίες για την έκθεση σε ακτινοβολία σε ασθενείς υψηλού κινδύνου που υποβάλλονται σε τομογραφίες θώρακος με κανονική δόση ακτινοβολίας (SDCCT), η έρευνα διερευνά αν η LDCCT, με μειωμένη ακτινοβολία και αλγόριθμους μείωσης θορύβου, μπορεί να ταιριάξει την SDCCT στην ποιότητα της εικόνας και την διαγνωστική ακρίβεια. Συμμετέχοντας 164 ουδετεροπενικοί ασθενείς με 256 τομογραφίες, η μελέτη εξετάζει συγκεκριμένα ακτινολογικά κριτήρια που σχετίζονται με πνευμονικές λοιμώξεις. Οι ερευνητές ανέλυσαν αντικειμενικές παραμέτρους (όπως ο θόρυβος της εικόνας και τα επίπεδα εξασθένησης), υποκειμενικές αξιολογήσεις (ποιότητα εικόνας, θόρυβος και τεχνουργήματα), και διαγνωστική απόδοση. Τα ευρήματα αποκαλύπτουν μείωση της δόσης ακτινοβολίας κατά 52,7% με την LDCCT αλλά χαμηλότερη διαγνωστική απόδοση, ειδικά στην ανίχνευση πυκνώσεων και θολής διαύγειας. Οι συγγραφείς προειδοποιούν να μην βασίζεται κανείς αποκλειστικά στην LDCCT για αρχικές αξιολογήσεις σε ασθενείς με αιματολογικές κακοήθειες, υπογραμμίζοντας τη σημασία της περαιτέρω έρευνας για τη βελτιστοποίηση των διαγνωστικών πρωτοκόλλων.
The evaluation of the quality of life in survivors of critical illness after discharge from Intensive Care Unit (ICU): A prospective cohort study
Authors: Papageorgiou Dimitrios , Triantafyllou Christos , Stavropoulou Areti , Kelesi Martha , Kaba Evridiki , Evgenikos Konstantinos , Liveri Athanasia , Stroumpouki Theodora
Published: July 2024

Background: Admission to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) constitutes a substantial psychophysical burden for patients and their relatives. Individuals who are critically ill and receive care in the ICU frequently exhibit numerous physical and mental issues stemming from the primary ailment, its complications, and subsequent treatments.
Aim: This study aimed to assess the quality of life (QoL) for ICU patients in the first and third month after ICU discharge and identify any issues arising from their ICU hospitalization.
Method and Material: This was a prospective cohort study. The study participants were adult medical or surgical patients admitted to ICUs in three public hospitals in the region of Attica in Greece, from August 2020 to December 2021.  The short form (SF)-36 was used to measure QoL. Data collection was performed through telephone interviews during the first and third month after ICU discharge.
Results: The study included 43 patients. The mean age was 59.63±13.06 years. The average value of the two main categories in the 1st month was: Physical health: 53.72 ± 15.92, and Mental health: 69.03 ± 26.02, while in the 3rd month, it was 62.42 ± 20.45 and 72.81 ± 16.47, respectively. The duration of mechanical ventilation, high-flow oxygen therapy, and spontaneous breathing in days seemed to be correlated with the “Physical Functioning”, “Pain”, and “Limitation of the role due to Physical health” subscales of SF-36, respectively (p-value <0.05). The total length of hospitalization seemed to have a statistically significant weak negative correlation with "Physical Function" and "Physical Health" subscales (p-value<0.05).
Conclusions:  An improvement in patients’ QoL was demonstrated three months after discharge from the ICU.
First checklist of free-living marine nematodes from the Israeli coast of the Mediterranean
Authors: HARBUZOV ZOYA , TOM MOSHE , DANOVARO ROBERTO , GAMBI CRISTINA , CARUGATI LAURA , LUBINEVSKY HADAS , LAMPADARIOU NIKOLAOS
Published: July 2024

This study presents an inventory of free-living marine nematodes from the deep waters of the southeastern part of the Levantine Basin. The meiofauna of this area, particularly the free-living marine nematodes, have been poorly investigated; hence, the present study has regional zoo-geographic importance. To fill this knowledge gap, nematodes were collected from the upper 0-3 cm sediment horizon from a transect located perpendicular to the Israel coast off Tel Aviv, with depths ranging between 76 and 1400 m. Our sampling yielded a diverse assemblage of nematodes representing 65 species belonging to 54 genera and 22 families. About 38% of the species have been previously reported in the Mediterranean; the remaining 62% are reported for the first time. A taxonomic checklist provides information on the worldwide distribution of the encountered species. This checklist provides a baseline for understanding the nematode community in this region and serves as a valuable resource for future studies.
New records of lichens and allied fungi from the Leningrad Region, Russia. XIII. Mainly saxicolous species
Authors: Stepanchikova Irina S. , Pankova Viktoria V. , Filippova Anastasiya V. , Timofeeva Eseniya A. , Rodionova Agata A. , Himelbrant Dmitry E.
Published: July 2024

Fourteen lichen species and three lichenicolous fungi were recorded for the first time for the Leningrad Region. The lichenicolous fungus Sclerococcum australe is new to Russia. Arthopyrenia cinereopruinosa, Aspicilia grisea, Buellia miriquidica, Catillaria atomarioides, Lithocalla ecorticata, Miriquidica intrudens, Rhizocarpon intermediellum, Sclerococcum amygdalariae, and S. parasiticum are new for North-Western European Russia.
Authoritativeness and Doubt: Communicative Representation
Authors: Kovsh M.
Published: July 2024

Authoritativeness is one of the main and least studied communicative categories. In particular, the description of authoritativeness in the news discourse is fragmentary. In a news text, authoritativeness enters into a codependent relationship with the category of credibility, in which one category’s means of expression also express the second one. The aim of this article is to identify and describe doubt markers in news texts. Based on general scientific methods and methods of discursive, functional, and contextual analysis, a set of doubt markers is identified and divided into several groups based on a subfunctional feature: assumption and prediction of probability, inaccurate quantitative data, etc. Some of the identified markers have not yet been the subject of linguistic analysis, which is the scientific novelty of the paper. The results obtained may find practical use in further studies of authoritativeness and credibility; they may also be of interest to the authors of news texts.
How do smartphones affect physical and mental health
Authors: Foryś Angelika , Stawska Weronika , Miłek Magdalena , Banach Mariola , Kwaśniak Ksenia , Ślusarczyk Monika , Magierska Agata , Niemczyk Anna , Kotowicz Zuzanna , Kmiotek Weronika
Published: July 2024

Introduction and the aim of the study: Fast technology makes the use of mobile phones global. On one hand, it offers a wide range of opportunities, such as improved interpersonal communication, quick access to information and entertainment, on the other- it may have a negative impact on physical activity or mental well-being. The aim of this study is to summarize the current state of knowledge about the relationship between problems related to smartphone use and health.Materials and methods: A literature search was conducted using the medical databases PubMed and Google Scholar. Articles were retrieved in English, employing the key words: “smartphone addiction”, “mental health” in appropriate configurations. The analysis encompassed data from 39 scientific references published between 2014 and 2024.Conclusions: Problematic smartphone use is a rapidly developing phenomenon, whereas mental health deviance may pose as a risk factor as much as an effect of smartphone overuse. Research results are needed to better describe this disorder and its medical consequences.
Review of recently published articles
Authors: Mendes Aysha
Published: July 2024

Aysha Mendes provides a synopsis and brief review of a selection of recently published research articles that are of interest to community nurses, highlighting key points to keep you up to date; a full reference is provided for those who wish to read the research in more detail
Efficacy of autologous platelet-rich plasma gel in patients with hard-to-heal diabetic foot ulcers: a multicentre study in Japan
Authors: Ohura Norihiko , Kimura Chu , Ando Hiroshi , Yuzuriha Shunsuke , Furukawa Masahide , Higashita Ryuji , Ayabe Shinobu , Tsuji Yoriko , Fujii Miki , Terabe Yuta , Sakisaka Masanobu , Iwashina Yuki , Nakanishi Arata , Sasaki Shigeru , Hasegawa Toshio , Kawauchi Tsukasa , Hisamichi Katsuya
Published: July 2024

Objective:

To evaluate the healing outcome of a platelet-rich plasma (PRP) gel prepared using TKKT01 (a wound care device to prepare the PRP gel) in patients with hard-to-heal diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) and who showed an inadequate response to ≥4 weeks of standard of care (SoC).

Method:

This open-label, single-arm, multicentre study was conducted in 15 centres in Japan. Eligible patients received PRP gel treatment twice a week for eight weeks, followed by a final evaluation after the completion of week 8 (day 57). The primary endpoint was the percentage of patients who achieved ≥50% reduction in wound radius at the final evaluation (achievement criterion, ≥60% of patients). Secondary endpoints included: wound area and volume reduction rates; time to possible wound closure by secondary intention; time to possible wound closure using a relatively simple procedure (e.g., skin graft and suture); and safety at the final evaluation.

Results:

A total of 54 patients were included in the full analysis set, with 47 patients included in the per protocol set; the primary endpoint was met in 38/47 (80.9%) (95% confidence interval: 66.7–90.9%) patients who achieved ≥50% wound radius reduction at the final evaluation. High rates of wound area (72.8%) and volume (92.7%) reduction were observed at the final evaluation. The median time to possible wound closure by secondary intention and by use of a relatively simple procedure was 57 and 43 days, respectively. Complete wound closure at the final evaluation was achieved in 27 (57.4%) patients. No safety concerns were raised.

Conclusion:

In this study, the efficacy and safety of PRP gel treatment with TKKT01 in patients with hard-to-heal DFUs in Japan were confirmed by our findings.

Declaration of interest:

This study was funded by Rohto Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Japan. NO has been paid a consulting fee by Rohto Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. KH is the Chief Medical Officer of Rohto Pharmaceutical. Co., Ltd. The other authors have no conflict of interest to declare.
Estimation of Genetic Parameters for primal cut weight traits of Hanwoo Industry Steer Population
Authors: Park So-yeon , Kim Do-hyun , Yu Ji-suk , Oh Jae-don , Lee Hak-kyo
Published: July 2024

Consumption trends of beef are continuously changing, therefore customized improvements are needed for high-value parts that are preferred by consumers. This study investigated the genetic correlation between each trait by estimating the genetic parameters of 4 carcass traits and 9 primal cut weight traits targeting 1,241 Hanwoo steers in the Jeonbuk region. The heritability of tenderloin, loin, striploin, neck, blade, bottom round, brisket and flank, shank, and rib was estimated to be 0.60, 0.49, 0.58, 0.43, 0.40, 0.68, 0.51, 0.65, and 0.57. The genetic correlation between carcass weight and 9 primal cut weight traits was very high at 0.63-0.90. The genetic correlation between loin, striploin, and ribs, which are the preferred parts for grilling, generally showed a tendency for the genetic correlation to be high in parts adjacent to each part. Therefore, in addition to improving the meat yield and quality of Hanwoo, it is believed that customized improvements for each part will also be possible.
Small cell lung carcinoma with KIF5B-RET fusion partially responded to the 4th-line therapy with anlotinib: A case report
Authors: Zhang Rui , He Yu-Ting , Liu Yi-Sha , Li Hang , Zhao Feng
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) exhibits a pronounced tendency for metastasis and relapse, and the acquisition of resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, leading to complexity in treatment outcomes. It is crucial to tackle these challenges by advancing targeted therapeutic approaches in ongoing research endeavors. Variant RET fusions have been reported in several solid tumors, but are rarely reported in SCLC.

CASE SUMMARY

We present the first case of a KIF5B-RET fusion in a 65-year-old male patient with SCLC. To date, the patient has received the 4th line chemotherapy with anlotinib for one year and has shown a sustained favorable partial response. According to the results of next generation sequencing, this SCLC patient harbors the KIF5B-RET fusion, suggesting that RET fusion could serve as a promising molecular target for SCLC treatment. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) plays a critical role in comprehensively assessing the genotype and phenotype of cancer.

CONCLUSION

NGS can provide SCLC patients with personalized and targeted therapy options, thereby improving their likelihood of survival.
RELAÇÃO DA AUTOEFICÁCIA MATERNA PARA AMAMENTAR E ALEITAMENTO EXCLUSIVO: REVISÃO SISTEMÁTICA
Authors: Thaís Ferreira da Silva  , Maria Cristina de Camargo Fonseca
Published: July 2024

autoeficácia ou autoconfiança é o conjunto particular de crenças de uma pessoa que determina quão bem ela pode executar um plano de ação em situações prospectivas (Bandura, 1977), tem um papel importantíssimo na manutenção do aleitamento materno, pois é um fator psicológico identificado como preditor significativo da intenção, duração (Margotti; Margotti, 2017) e exclusividade da amamentação (Margotti; Margotti, 2017; Chaves et al., 2019).
The Companions of Breath for Planetary Health: Vegetal Lessons from Plants and The Botanical City
Authors: Selim Nasima
Published: July 2024

Abstract: Critics and supporters of the emergent planetary health paradigm speak of several crises in imagination, knowledge, and implementation. The affective imagination of human-plant relations remains marginal in the hegemonic biomedical style of reasoning that runs through most planetary health discourses. This review essay aims to intervene in the crisis of imagination within this paradigm by drawing vegetal lessons from two recent books published during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021. The Botanical City provides interdisciplinary articulations of the urban ecologies of human-plant relations in terms of a deeper engagement with the science and poetics of botany. Lessons from Plants invites us to expand the horizons of imagining plants not only as objects of inquiry or companion species but as teachers. Bringing these texts in dialogue with my work as a public anthropologist and critical global health researcher and educator of breathing practices inspires me to formulate plants as companions of breath, greening my breathing practices and politicizing the “epistemic affects” with which I approach ethnographic practice.1 These works encourage us to ponder the lifelong lessons taught by neighborhood trees and houseplants, entangling the collective histories of human-plant relations. More importantly, these vegetal lessons offer critically affective urban ecological evidence that can help critical global health scholars address the question, What can the planetary health paradigm learn from plants and the local-global entanglements of botanical cities?
Revisiting Point Pleasant, West Virginia: Notes on the Changing Geographies of an Appalachian Town
Authors: Kruse Robert
Published: July 2024

This geographical note revisits the town of Point Pleasant, West Virginia and provides an update on a paper published in 2015. Long known as the site of the Battle of Point Pleasant, The Silver Bridge Tragedy, and alleged sightings of a winged, red-eyed creature called the “Mothman,” Point Pleasant and Mason County are currently in the midst of an economic transformation. This paper reveals how the growth of the Mothman Festival and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have provided new opportunities for economic development, and helped attract three new industries to the area. Drawing from interviews with two town leaders and a lifelong resident, this essay offers a perspective on how recent innovations, strong leadership, and continuity anchored in a strong sense of place are moving the town forward towards prosperity.
Compact photonic model based on coupled-mode theory for nonlinear interactions in electronic-photonic co-simulation
Authors: Zhang Siyuan , Fan Xiaolong , Chen Nuo , Qiu Ciyuan , Wang Xingsheng , Wang Ken Xingze , Xu Jing , Tan Min
Published: July 2024

This paper demonstrates a Verilog-A compact photonic model based on coupled-mode theory for nonlinear interactions, including four-wave mixing (FWM) and cross-phase modulation (XPM), to present a general framework and methodology for modeling nonlinear interactions in electronic-photonic co-simulation. The model is compatible with existing electronic design automation (EDA) platforms and can support rapid electronic-photonic co-simulation. It avoids describing the complicated physical process of the FWM and provides an easy way for system designers to monitor the dynamics of the critical optical parameters, thus accelerating the co-design and co-optimization of the electronic-photonic hybrid systems incorporating FWM. Meanwhile, the model is not tailored for a particular photonic device but can be applied to different photonic devices as a fundamental component. The model framework and modeling methodology presented in this paper are expected to be further applied to the modeling of other optical nonlinear interactions. The simulation results of the proposed model agree well with both numerical and experimental results. A closed-loop electronic-photonic co-simulation example using the proposed model is also carried out successfully.
Direct lithography of CsPbCl3, CsPbBrxCl3−x and CsCdxPb1−xBr3 perovskite nanocrystals in organic media
Authors: Xie Dale , Yi Chenqi , Zhong Dong , Gan Zongsong
Published: July 2024

The in-situ generation of perovskite nanocrystals within organic media using a femtosecond laser can greatly simplify the sample preparation process and save pulse energy. In this work, three perovskite nanocrystals (PNCs), CsPbCl3, CsPbBrxCl3−x, and CsCdxPb1−xBr3, were generated in situ within organic media using a femtosecond laser. These three perovskite nanocrystals emitted pure blue or blue-green fluorescence under ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. It was also found that by controlling the laser pulse energy, the CsCdxPb1-xBr3 nanocrystals transitioned from green to blue-green fluorescence. Furthermore, we have successfully realized the patterning of these three perovskite nanocrystals in organic media.
Off-axis reflective microscope objective with a centimeter scale field of view and micron resolution
Authors: Wang Menghui , Zhu Jun
Published: July 2024

Microscope objectives with wide field-of-view (FOV) and high resolution are urgently needed for the frontier research in life sciences. However, traditional transmission microscope objectives typically have a narrow FOV and severe chromatic aberration. A new off-axis reflective microscope objective with a centimeter scale FOV and micron resolution is proposed in this paper. This objective, with its simple structure, can operate over a wide wavelength range. A design method for a wide FOV optical system is presented, which can eliminate the obstruction of the rays and control the intermediate image plane. Using this method, we design a novel off-axis four-mirror microscope objective with a FOV of 10 mm × 1.5 mm and a numerical aperture of 0.33.
Joint constellation shaping optical modulation scheme based on a pair of common-bottomed trigonal cones
Authors: Ren Jianxin , Liu Bo , Wu Mengjie , Mao Yaya , Chen Shuaidong , Song Xiumin , Wu Xiangyu , Ullah Rahat , Zhao Lilong , Guo Zeqian , Zhu Dongxu , Wang Jiyuan
Published: July 2024

A joint constellation shaping (JCS) three-dimensional (3D) 16-ary modulation scheme constructed with a pair of common-bottomed trigonal cones (CBTC) as primitives is proposed. Compared to the 3D traditional constellation (TC) and the 3D geometric constellation shaping (GS) structure previously proposed by our group (GGS), the constellation figure of merit (CFM) is improved by 0.3906 and 0.0097, respectively. Meanwhile, probabilistic shaping (PS) is employed to optimize the 3D-CBTC-16CAP constellation structure for the second time to enhance the CFM of the constellation further. Compared to the 3D-CBTC-16CAP, after PS the 3D-JCS-16CAP has a CFM improvement of 0.5014. Experiments are carried out to transmit the signals across a 2 km seven-core fiber. At the bit error rate (BER) threshold ∼3.8 × 10−3, the 3D-CBTC-16CAP scheme demonstrates an improvement in the receiver sensitivity by 0.76 and 0.39 dB compared with 3D-TC-16CAP and 3D-GGS-16CAP. In addition, the transmission effect of the signals after joint PS is verified. Experiments show that the proposed 3D-JCS-16CAP scheme has the most significant enhancement effect when used in conjunction with PS, and the receiver sensitivity is improved by about 0.97 and 0.34 dB compared with the 3D-JTC-16CAP (3D-TC-16CAP signal after joint PS) and 3D-JGGS-16CAP (3D-GGS-16CAP signal after the joint PS).
Prediction of strong coupling in resonant perovskite metasurfaces by deep learning
Authors: Fan Leipeng , Yu Yangyang , Gao Chenggui , Qu Xiaoying , Zhou Chaobiao
Published: July 2024

Resonant metasurfaces are often used to achieve strong coupling, and numerical simulations are the common method for designing and optimizing structural parameters of metasurfaces, while their calculation process takes a lot of time and occupies more computing resources. In this work, the deep learning strategy is proposed to simulate the strong coupling phenomenon in resonant perovskite metasurfaces. The designed fully connected neural network is constructed based on the deep learning algorithm that is used to predict transmission spectra, multipole decomposition spectral lines, and anti-cross phenomena of a perovskite metasurface. Through comparison of numerical simulation results, it can be seen that the neural network can efficiently and accurately predict the strong coupling phenomenon. Compared with the traditional design process, the proposed deep learning model can guide the design of the resonant metasurface more quickly, which significantly improves the feasibility of the design in complex metasurface structures.
Dynamic control of cascaded four-wave mixing via re-configurable dispersion
Authors: Thapa Shree R. , Drake James , Hudson Darren D.
Published: July 2024

We integrate a spatial light modulator-based dispersion controller into a cascaded four-wave mixing (CFWM) system. By tuning the group delay dispersion (GDD) and fourth-order dispersion (FOD) terms, we control the CFWM phase matching and demonstrate an output bandwidth tuning of over 3.3×. At the maximum bandwidth, our system covers the telecommunications S-, C-, and L-bands (1466–1641 nm) with an average output power of 300 mW, which is contained in 52 individual lines spaced 374 GHz apart. This method represents a reconfigurable alternative to photonic crystal fibers for dispersion engineering and allows for the use of step-index fiber and customizable power spectral density (PSD) profiles.
Theoretical study of the substituent effects on the ESIPT mechanism of salicylideneaniline and the TICT photochemistry reactions
Authors: Yin Yingrui , Chen Zuzhi , Zhang Dan , Yang Lujia , Wang Mingli , Yang Yunfan
Published: July 2024

The study of salicylideneaniline (SA) and its derivatives is critical due to their special photophysical properties and environmental sensitivity. In this work, the density time-dependent functional theory (TDDFT) and complete-active-space self-consistent-field (CASSCF) methods were carried out to calculate the substituent effect on excited-state properties and dynamics of SA derivatives. We found the para-substitution triggers the excited-state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) reaction, exhibiting the dual-fluorescent phenomena. However, the meta- and ortho-substitutions impel the non-radiative transition process along the minimum energy conical intersection (MECI), forming the twisted intramolecular charge transfer (TICT) state to prevent ESIPT. This investigation of substituent effects on the photochemical processes and photophysical properties will provide the benchmarks for the design of fluorescent materials.
Dynamic counterpropagating all-normal dispersion (DCANDi) fiber laser
Authors: Prakash Neeraj , Musgrave Jonathan , Li Bowen , Huang Shu-Wei
Published: July 2024

The fiber single-cavity dual-comb laser (SCDCL) is an emerging light-source architecture that opens up the possibility for low-complexity dual-comb pump-probe measurements. However, the fundamental trade-off between measurement speed and time resolution remains a hurdle for the widespread use of fiber SCDCLs in dual-comb pump-probe measurements. In this paper, we break this fundamental trade-off by devising an all-optical dynamic repetition rate difference (Δf
rep
) modulation technique. We demonstrate the dynamic Δf
rep
modulation in a modified version of the recently developed counterpropagating all-normal dispersion (CANDi) fiber laser. We verify that our all-optical dynamic Δf
rep
modulation technique does not introduce excessive relative timing jitter. In addition, the dynamic modulation mechanism is studied and validated both theoretically and experimentally. As a proof-of-principle experiment, we apply this so-called dynamic CANDi (DCANDi) fiber laser to measure the relaxation time of a semiconductor saturable absorber mirror, achieving a measurement speed and duty cycle enhancement factor of 143. DCANDi fiber laser is a promising light source for low-complexity, high-speed, high-sensitivity ultrafast dual-comb pump-probe measurements.
Joint modeling of choices and reaction times based on Bayesian contextual behavioral control
Authors: Schwöbel Sarah , Marković Dimitrije , Smolka Michael N. , Kiebel Stefan
Published: July 2024

In cognitive neuroscience and psychology, reaction times are an important behavioral measure. However, in instrumental learning and goal-directed decision making experiments, findings often rely only on choice probabilities from a value-based model, instead of reaction times. Recent advancements have shown that it is possible to connect value-based decision models with reaction time models. However, typically these models do not provide an integrated account of both value-based choices and reaction times, but simply link two types of models. Here, we propose a novel integrative joint model of both choices and reaction times by combining a computational account of Bayesian sequential decision making with a sampling procedure. This allows us to describe how internal uncertainty in the planning process shapes reaction time distributions. Specifically, we use a recent context-specific Bayesian forward planning model which we extend by a Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) sampler to obtain both choices and reaction times. As we will show this makes the sampler an integral part of the decision making process and enables us to reproduce, using simulations, well-known experimental findings in value based-decision making as well as classical inhibition and switching tasks. Specifically, we use the proposed model to explain both choice behavior and reaction times in instrumental learning and automatized behavior, in the Eriksen flanker task and in task switching. These findings show that the proposed joint behavioral model may describe common underlying processes in these different decision making paradigms.
ArborSim: Articulated, branching, OpenSim routing for constructing models of multi-jointed appendages with complex muscle-tendon architecture
Authors: Fu Xun , Withers Jack , Miyamae Juri A. , Moore Talia Y.
Published: July 2024

Computational models of musculoskeletal systems are essential tools for understanding how muscles, tendons, bones, and actuation signals generate motion. In particular, the OpenSim family of models has facilitated a wide range of studies on diverse human motions, clinical studies of gait, and even non-human locomotion. However, biological structures with many joints, such as fingers, necks, tails, and spines, have been a longstanding challenge to the OpenSim modeling community, especially because these structures comprise numerous bones and are frequently actuated by extrinsic muscles that span multiple joints—often more than three—and act through a complex network of branching tendons. Existing model building software, typically optimized for limb structures, makes it difficult to build OpenSim models that accurately reflect these intricacies. Here, we introduce ArborSim, customized software that efficiently creates musculoskeletal models of highly jointed structures and can build branched muscle-tendon architectures. We used ArborSim to construct toy models of articulated structures to determine which morphological features make a structure most sensitive to branching. By comparing the joint kinematics of models constructed with branched and parallel muscle-tendon units, we found that among various parameters—the number of tendon branches, the number of joints between branches, and the ratio of muscle fiber length to muscle tendon unit length—the number of tendon branches and the number of joints between branches are most sensitive to branching modeling method. Notably, the differences between these models showed no predictable pattern with increased complexity. As the proportion of muscle increased, the kinematic differences between branched and parallel models units also increased. Our findings suggest that stress and strain interactions between distal tendon branches and proximal tendon and muscle greatly affect the overall kinematics of a musculoskeletal system. By incorporating complex muscle-tendon branching into OpenSim models using ArborSim, we can gain deeper insight into the interactions between the axial and appendicular skeleton, model the evolution and function of diverse animal tails, and understand the mechanics of more complex motions and tasks.