bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Obstetrical attitude towards performing a trial of labor after cesarean section in Greece: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Ralli Elpida , Mitta Kyriaki , Toulika Eirini , Tsakiridis Ioannis , Mamopoulos Apostolos , Kalogiannidis Ioannis , Athanasiadis Apostolos , Dagklis Themistoklis
Published: July 2024

Introduction: There has been a notable worldwide rise in the percentage of women delivering via cesarean section. Although cesarean section is generally considered safe, there is a possibility of significant health risks and even mortality associated with it. The aim of this study was to collect pertinent data on the perspectives of healthcare providers, particularly obstetricians, who are involved in the field of labor and delivery in Greece, regarding the choice of Trial Of Labor After Cesarean (TOLAC). Material and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study, conducted at the Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece; obstetricians were interviewed via certain questionnaires. Detailed analysis of the different characteristics regarding obstetricians’ background, workplace, preferences, willingness to take risks and safety concerns was conducted. These variables were compared and correlation between them was thoroughly investigated. Results: In total, 333 responses to the questionnaire were collected through Google online forms. Few obstetricians seem to enjoy taking risks, while most of them are neutral and willing to perform a planned TOLAC. It seems that as the experience of obstetricians increases, their tendency to recommend TOLAC on their own does not increase. The majority of obstetricians who had a failed TOLAC were more negative than those who had not had a failed attempt; whereas, they were willing to undertake TOLAC when the time required to transfer the women from the labor ward to the operating table was the minimum possible. Concerning the security as an important element in every aspect of obstetricians’ lives, the majority of them responded neutrally or positively. Following gender analysis, results showed that both male and female obstetricians were neutral or would avoid situations that have an uncertain outcome. Conclusion: Obstetricians and healthcare providers are willing to offer TOLAC as an option, provided that certain criteria are met and safety considerations are addressed. Finally, the acceptance and practice of TOLAC may vary between different regions, hospitals and individual healthcare providers.
Post-splenectomy thrombocytosis and survival outcomes of patients submitted to maximal effort cytoreductive surgery for advanced epithelial ovarian cancer
Authors: Pergialiotis Vasilios , Vlachos Dimitrios Efthymios , Feroussis Loukas , Lygizos Vasilios , Rodolakis Ioannis , Bramis Konstantinos , Zachariou Eleftherios , Daskalakis Georgios , Thomakos Nikolaos , Haidopoulos Dimitrios
Published: July 2024

Background: Splenectomy is a very common procedure that is frequently necessary in cases requiring upper abdominal surgery for ovarian cancer. To date, the impact of postoperative thrombocytosis on ovarian cancer survival has not been studied. In the present retrospective cohort study we chose to evaluate the impact of post-splenectomy thrombocytosis on survival outcomes of patients with advanced epithelial ovarian cancer that were submitted to maximal effort cytoreductive procedures. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study based on cases that had major debulking procedures, involving upper abdominal surgery for epithelial ovarian cancer. Results: Overall, 82 women had splenectomy of whom, 52 (63%) developed thrombocytosis. The results of the univariate analysis revealed that postoperative thrombocytosis did not increase the risk of disease recurrence (62.94 months (31.71, 93.27) vs 31.40 months (21.39, 41.41) log-rank=.683). Similar results were obtained for overall survival of included patients which was comparable among the two groups (87.50 months (53.47, 121.52) vs 47.78 months (34.30, 61.25), log-rank=.511). Logistic regression analysis revealed that only age was a predictive factor of postoperative thrombocytosis with an effect of minimal clinical importance (OR 0.94, 95% CI 0.89, 1.00). Conclusion: Post-splenectomy thrombocytosis does not affect the survival outcomes of patients with advanced epithelial ovarian cancer that undergo major debulking procedures. This might be explained by the underlying mechanisms which in the case of postoperative thrombocytosis seem to be completely disconnected from the pathophysiology of cancer.
MEMORY AND TIME IN OLES ILCHENKO’S PHOTOPOETRY
Authors: Рязанцева Тетяна
Published: July 2024

The paper considers new creative approaches to the established types of poetry. Building on the theoretical definitions, taxonomies and observations formulated in the works of Aleida Assmann, Roland Barthes, Nina Chamata, Robert Crawford and Norman McBeath, Michael Nott, Irina Rajewski, James Smith, Susan Sontag, et al., the research argues that the artistic practices of photopoetry (“a form of photo-text that takes, for its primary components, poetry and photography”, Michael Nott) offer new ways to interpret certain topics of metaphysical poetry.
The material for analysis is taken from a black and white photo-text book “Some Dreams or Kyiv That No Longer Exists” (2007) by a Geneva-based  Ukrainian poet and artist Oles Ilchenko. The detailed analysis of it seeks to clarify the structural, stylistic, and semantic characteristics of Ilchenko’s photopoetry. The special attention is paid to the mechanics of cyclization, forms of intermedial interactions, and types of artistic collaboration in this project. It is also noted that the interpretative co-operation with the audience here depends on the readers/viewers’ personal memories and emotions evoked by these photographs and poems.
Focusing on the motifs of memory, nostalgia, and transience of life, Ilchenko’s photopoetic cycle explores the metaphysical theme of Death and Time in its connection with the urban space of Kyiv. This project demonstrates that the long form photopoetry provides the 21st century author with some efficient creative instruments to interpret the realities “of peculiar kind” (James Smith), such as time and memory. The contrasting combination of verbal and visual elements in this book creates an effect of double visualization, which accentuates the dynamics and dramatic tension between the poems and the images. The cyclic composition of texts paired with the fragmented and modified photographs transforms the real urban space into a powerful metaphor of memory and personal loss.
(NOT) LOOKING BACK: THE MYTHIC FIGURES OF ORPHEUS, AENEAS, AND PERSEPHONE IN KATERYNA KALYTKO’S POETRY
Authors: Борисюк Ірина
Published: July 2024

The paper deals with the integral myth in the last two collections of poetry by Kateryna Kalytko — “The Silent Women’s Order” (2021) and “People with Verbs” (2022). The all-embracing plot of the descent into the realm of the dead is revealed through the stories of three figures taken from the antique mythology — Orpheus, Persephone, and Aeneas. In Kalytko’s poetry, these figures can hardly be interpreted as actualization of the antique mythology through some occasional intertextual relations. They are positioned in the core of the intentionally constructed myth. Therefore, Orpheus’ descent into the underworld is correlated with the verification of language’s capacity to adequately reproduce the dramatic experience embedded in the collective memory. Furthermore, the re-reading of the myth is prompted by gender inversion, since Orpheus in Kalytko’s poetry is a woman. Orpheus-woman accumulates memories in her body, and ancestral stories become the fixation of the past in her actual corporeal experience, rather than merely an extension of her memories.
The implicit ambiguity of language is a path for Orpheus, not Aeneas; in contrast to Orpheus, Aeneas does not look back. A verb, ‘diieslovo’, as a key concept of Kalytko’s latest poetry collection disintegrates into separate parts — an action and a word: Orpheus and Aeneas take different paths. Yet even this difference works for the integrity of a community — through Aeneas, whose path is directed to the future, and Orpheus, who gives a voice to the past. The dotted line of Euridice-Persephone plot confirms the importance of the topos of returning for Kalytko’s poetry since the reason for Persephone’s returning to Hades is her intention and not the underworld magic. (Not) looking back in this sense is a figure of symmetry, a looped mythic narrative of the descent to the realm of the dead — Persephone, who returns; Aeneas, who does not look back; and Orpheus, who looks back all the time.
EMBELLISHED, MARGINALIZED, AND MISUNDERSTOOD: WOMEN’S EXPERIENCES IN UKRAINIAN WOMEN’S PROSE ABOUT THE STRUGGLE OF UIA
Authors: Жигун Сніжана
Published: July 2024

The paper examines the role of literature in creating a social framework for the memory of women combatants. The aim is to outline the problematic issues of forming a collective memory of women in the UIA ranks, based on the analysis of the literary representation of their experiences in prose. The objects of the study are the novels “Lemkivshchyna in Fire” by Mariia Ostromyra, “The Museum of Abandoned Secrets” by Oksana Zabuzhko, and “Because It Hurts” by Yevheniia Senik. To achieve this goal, the paper considers aspects of women’s experiences in the UIA as presented by historians and then compares the real experiences with those depicted in the analyzed texts, identifying and interpreting problematic issues.
Historians describe women’s experiences by combining: 1) the functions that women performed in the army (scouts, typists, couriers, nurses, suppliers, and, rarely, riflemen); 2) changes in the concept of femininity, including the rejection of motherhood, loss of children, separation from family or beloved men, and forced relationships; 3) the instrumentalization of fear initiated by the Soviet secret services.
The analyzed women’s novels have different strategies for representing women’s experiences. “Lemkivshchyna in Fire” emphasizes the contribution of women to the struggle but avoids depicting a specifically female experience. “The Museum of Abandoned Secrets” highlights the distinctive experience of war caused by biological (but not social) factors and doesn’t account for women’s participation in the struggle. “Because It Hurts” captures a wide range of women’s experiences but avoids interpreting and evaluating them. Thus, these novels make women’s experiences during armed conflicts visible but do not convey their fullness and complexity. At the same time, all three works aim to deny the Soviet narrative of the ‘betrayal’ of women from the underground movement: the portrayed characters are steadfastly committed to the goals of the struggle and refuse to cooperate with the enemy. Therefore, these novels are significant in the context of the decolonization process.
Examining the Impact of Python Pals on Middle School Girls’ Perceptions of Computer Science
Authors: Hegde Riya
Published: July 2024

Python Pals is a project designed to empower women in computer science by offering free programming lessons to middle school girls. Historically, women played a crucial role in early computer science, especially during World War II, but they received little recognition and were later marginalized as the field became male-dominated. Today, women make up only 21% of computer science majors,1 a decline driven by gender stereotypes and cultural biases. To address this disparity in Hudson, Ohio, Python Pals offers monthly coding sessions focusing on the basics of Python. Each 3-4 hour session includes instruction, group projects, and friendly competitions to reinforce learning. The program has also expanded internationally with virtual lessons for girls in India. The goal is to build programming skills and challenge gender stereotypes in computer science. Early results indicate significant improvements in participants' coding abilities and increased interest in further studies and careers in the field.
Short-term cryoprotectant-free cryopreservation at −20°C does not affect the viability and regenerative capacity of nanofat
Authors: Limido Ettore , Weinzierl Andrea , Ampofo Emmanuel , Harder Yves , Menger Michael D. , Laschke Matthias W.
Published: July 2024

Nanofat is an autologous fat derivative with high regenerative activity, which is usually administered immediately after its generation by mechanical emulsification of adipose tissue. For its potential repeated use over longer time, we herein tested whether cryopreservation of nanofat is feasible. For this purpose, the inguinal fat pads of donor mice were processed to nanofat, which was i) frozen and stored in a freezer at −20°C, ii) shock frozen in liquid nitrogen with subsequent storage at −80°C or iii) gradually frozen and stored at −80°C. After 7 days, the cryopreserved nanofat samples were thawed and immunohistochemically compared with freshly generated nanofat (control). Nanofat frozen and stored at −20°C exhibited the lowest apoptotic rate and highest densities of blood and lymph vessels, which were comparable to those of control. Accordingly, nanofat cryopreserved at −20°C or control nanofat were subsequently fixed with platelet-rich plasma in full-thickness skin defects within dorsal skinfold chambers of recipient mice to assess vascularization, formation of granulation tissue and wound closure by means of stereomicroscopy, intravital fluorescence microscopy, histology and immunohistochemistry over 14 days. These analyses revealed no marked differences between the healing capacity of wounds filled with cryopreserved or control nanofat. Therefore, it can be concluded that cryopreservation of nanofat is simply feasible without affecting its viability and regenerative potential. This may broaden the range of future nanofat applications, which would particularly benefit from repeated administration of this autologous biological product.
Burkholderia cepacia in cystic fibrosis children and adolescents: overall survival and immune alterations
Authors: Shmarina Galina , Pukhalskaya Daria , Shmarin Vassiliy , Semykin Sergey , Avakyan Lusine , Krasovsky Stanislav , Goryainova Anastasia , Kostyuk Svetlana , Zinchenko Rena , Kashirskaya Nataliya
Published: July 2024

Background

In current literature there are only scarce data on the host inflammatory response during Burkholderia cepacia complex (Bcc) persistence. The primary objective of the present research was to carry out cross-sectional analyses of biomarkers and evaluate disease progression in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients with chronic Bcc infection and pathogen-free ones. The secondary aim was to assess prospectively overall survival of the study participants during up to 8 years of follow-up.

Methods

The study included 116 paediatric patients with CF; 47 CF patients were chronically infected with Bcc, and 69 individuals were Bcc free. Plasma and sputum biomarkers (neutrophil elastase, MMP-8, MMP-9, MMP-12, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-18, IL-22, IL-23, IL-17, IFN-γ, TGFβ1, TNF-α) were analysed using commercially available kits. Besides, inhibitory effect of dexamethasone on proliferative response of PHA-stimulated peripheral blood lymphocytes had been assessed.

Results

Bcc infected patients did not differ from Bcc free ones in demographic and clinical parameters, but demonstrated an increased rate of glucose metabolism disturbances and survival disadvantage during prolong follow-up period. Biomarkers analyses revealed elevated TNF-α and reduced IL-17F levels in sputum samples of Bcc infected patients. These patients also demonstrated improvement of peripheral blood lymphocyte sensitivity to steroid treatment and reduction in plasma pro-inflammatory (IL-17F and IL-18) and anti-inflammatory (TGFβ1 and IL-10) cytokine concentrations.

Conclusions

Reduction in IL-17F levels may have several important consequences including increase in steroid sensitivity and glycemic control disturbances. Further investigations are needed to clarify the role of IL-17 cytokines in CF complication development. Low plasma TGFβ1 and IL-10 levels in Bcc infected group may be a sign of subverted activity of regulatory T cells. Such immune alterations may be one of the factors contributing to the development of the cepacia syndrome.
Application of metagenomic next-generation sequencing for rapid molecular identification in spinal infection diagnosis
Authors: Lv Hui , Liao Sheng , Shi Zhenzhen , Guo Yuan , Zhou JianHong , Chen Hui , Luo Fei , Xu JianZhong , Zhang ZhongRong , Zhang ZeHua
Published: July 2024

Objective

This study aimed to determine the sensitivity and specificity of metagenomic next−generation sequencing (mNGS) for detecting pathogens in spinal infections and to identify the differences in the diagnostic performance between mNGS and targeted next−generation sequencing (tNGS).

Methods

A total of 76 consecutive patients with suspected spinal infections who underwent mNGS, culture, and histopathological examinations were retrospectively studied. The final diagnosis of the patient was determined by combining the clinical treatment results, pathological examinations, imaging changes and laboratory indicators. The sensitivity and specificity of mNGS and culture were determined.

Results

The difference between the two detection rates was statistically significant (p < 0.001), with mNGS exhibiting a significantly higher detection rate (77.6% versus 18.4%). The average diagnosis time of mNGS was significantly shorter than that of bacterial culture (p < 0.001, 1.65 versus 3.07 days). The sensitivity and accuracy of mNGS were significantly higher than that of the culture group (p < 0.001, 82.3% versus 17.5%; 75% versus 27.6%), whereas the specificity of mNGS (42.9%) was lower than that of the culture group (p > 0.05, 42.9% versus 76.9%). The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and positive predictive value (PPV) of pus were higher than those of tissue samples for mNGS, whereas for culture, the sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and PPV of tissue samples were higher than those of pus. tNGS demonstrated higher sensitivity and accuracy in diagnosing tuberculosis (TB) than mNGS (80% versus 50%; 87.5% versus 68.8%).

Conclusion

mNGS for spinal infection demonstrated better diagnostic value in developing an antibiotic regimen earlier, and it is recommended to prioritize pus samples for testing through mNGS. Moreover, tNGS outperformed other methods for diagnosing spinal TB and identifying antibiotic-resistance genes in drug-resistant TB.
Strategic management of internal employer branding – guerilla strategies to engage and retain top employees in a challenging workforce environment
Authors: Barbulescu Florentina-Mihaela , Vasiluță-Ștefănescu Marius , Stoicov Ionela , Coman Claudiu , Coman Ecaterina
Published: July 2024

Introduction

In a globalized and constantly evolving employment environment, it is imperative that organizations cultivate effective employer branding strategies to maintain competitiveness and attractiveness. These would allow them to obtain unique advantages in the market but also support for the internal employer brand. Despite the critical role of employer branding in attracting and retaining top talent, there remains a gap in understanding its relationship to HRM practices and employee perceptions of those practices. The purpose of this research was to investigate the correlation between human resources management practices and employer branding measured through organizational attractiveness and seen from the employees’ perspective. Additionally, to find out if there is a significant difference between the private and public sector in terms of the perception of HRM practices influencing organizational attractiveness.

Methods

A questionnaire was applied to 800 respondents, employed in various positions in private and public sector organizations in western Romania. Two scales were applied to evaluate human resources management practices and the employer’s attractiveness from the employees’ perspective.

Results

Findings indicate a direct and positive relation between HRM practices and organizational attractiveness, with particular emphasis on performance appraisal practice, training and development, and work-life balance practices. When it comes to private sector, the significant practices influencing organizational attractiveness are performance appraisal, safety, and work-life balance practices, whereas in the public sector we have training-development and performance appraisal practices.

Discussion

These results underline the role of human resource management in strengthening internal support for the employer brand and increasing overall employer attractiveness. The more appropriate human resource management practices are in the perception of employees, the more attractive the organization is perceived as an employer.
A method for rapidly assessing landslide hazard—taking the landslide in Yongxing town, Mingshan area as an example
Authors: He Na , Gao Xinhang , Zhong Wei , Xu Linjuan , Gurkalo Filip
Published: July 2024

To overcome the reliance on large samples and high-quality data in existing evaluation methods, while also improving evaluation efficiency and accuracy, this paper proposes a method for rapid landslide hazard assessment. This method utilizes existing research findings and specific analytical techniques for the study area to conduct rapid assessments. Taking the landslide in Yongxing Town, Mingshan Area, Ya’an City, Sichuan Province as an example, the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) is combined with the Information Value (IV) method, Certainty Factor (CF) method, and Frequency Ratio (FR) method from previous studies, The AHP-IV and AHP-FR methods assess the study area as a moderately hazardous zone, while the AHP-CF method assesses it as a slightly hazardous zone. Affected by the strong 2013 Lushan earthquake, the landslide in the study area caused permanent damage. Field investigation results show that the landslide hazard in the study area is moderate, and the AHP-IV and AHP-FR methods are more consistent with the actual field results. The AHP-CF method, due to not considering the water system factor and having certain errors in its discrimination method, leans towards a safer assessment, The results of the three evaluation methods are somewhat consistent.
The pivotal role of water potential in phenology and seed germination of Abies spectabilis in the western Himalayan treeline region
Authors: Singh Nandan , Mittal Amit , Tewari Ashish , Shah Shruti , Wani Zishan Ahmad , Siddiqui Sazada
Published: July 2024

Abies spectabilis (East Himalayan Fir), a dominant timber-producing species in the Himalayas, plays a dynamic role in ecological balance and sustains various habitats across temperate to subalpine altitudes. Himalayan montane forests express signs of changes in the growth, regeneration, and population density of forest tree species due to ongoing climate change, including its upper distribution limit. The research was conducted at 30°11´02˝N and 79°39′36˝E, ranging from 3,100 to 3,500 m asl elevation in the treeline ecotone of western Himalaya. The study presents a comprehensive perspective on how water availability and its intricate interactions with climatic and ecological variables shape the dynamics of treeline ecosystems. The study’s phytosociological analysis of treeline sites revealed the complex interplay between species composition, adaptability, and regeneration potential. The eco-physiological aspects of water balance were thoroughly explored, underscoring how plants employ various strategies to cope with changing water availability. The soil moisture content ranged from 32.17 to 73.50%. The dynamic nature of water potential (pre-dawn (ΨPD) and mid-day (ΨMD)) across seasons and years reflects and varies between −0.13 and − 1.25 MPa, the species’ ability to adjust and manage water balance according to environmental shifts. Osmotic potential at full turgor varied from −0.72 to −1.77 MPa, these adjustments are crucial for key life cycle events of vegetative and reproductive phases of species. The strong correlation of water potential (Ψ) and phenophases emphasizes the importance of water status in regulating these vital processes. Furthermore, the study delved into the maturation and germination processes, highlighting the significance of Ψ and moisture content in seed development and germination success. The maximum germination of 46.33% was observed when the seed moisture content was 30.90 ± 3.11%. The observed correlations between cone characteristics and seed parameters indicate the existence of trade-offs that impact seed size, weight, and germination capacity, contributing to the overall fitness of the species.
The levels of circulating cytokines and risk of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Ma Xue , Wang Yao , Chen Xin , Guo Jun
Published: July 2024

Background

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is an inflammatory autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system (CNS). NMOSD pathogenesis involves systemic inflammation. However, a causal relationship between circulating cytokine levels and NMOSD remains unclear.

Methods

Mendelian randomization (MR) approaches were used to investigate the potential association between genetically determined circulating 19 inflammatory cytokines and 12 chemokines levels and the risk of developing NMOSD.

Results

After Bonferroni correction, the risk of aquaporin 4-antibody (AQP4-ab)-positive NMOSD was suggested to be causally associated with the circulating levels of three cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-4 [odds ratio (OR): 11.01, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.16–104.56, P = 0.037], IL-24 (OR: 161.37; 95% CI: 2.46–10569.21, P = 0.017), and C-C motif chemokine 19 (CCL19) (OR: 6.87, 95% CI: 1.78–26.93, P = 0.006).

Conclusion

These findings suggest that a genetic predisposition to higher levels of IL-4, IL-24, and CCL19 may exert a causal effect on the risk of AQP4-ab-positive NMOSD. Further studies are warranted to clarify how these cytokines affect the development of AQP4-ab-positive NMOSD.
A novel prognostic signature related to programmed cell death in osteosarcoma
Authors: Jiang Yu-Chen , Xu Qi-Tong , Wang Hong-Bin , Ren Si-Yuan , Zhang Yao
Published: July 2024

Background

Osteosarcoma primarily affects children and adolescents, with current clinical treatments often resulting in poor prognosis. There has been growing evidence linking programmed cell death (PCD) to the occurrence and progression of tumors. This study aims to enhance the accuracy of OS prognosis assessment by identifying PCD-related prognostic risk genes, constructing a PCD-based OS prognostic risk model, and characterizing the function of genes within this model.

Method

We retrieved osteosarcoma patient samples from TARGET and GEO databases, and manually curated literature to summarize 15 forms of programmed cell death. We collated 1621 PCD genes from literature sources as well as databases such as KEGG and GSEA. To construct our model, we integrated ten machine learning methods including Enet, Ridge, RSF, CoxBoost, plsRcox, survivalSVM, Lasso, SuperPC, StepCox, and GBM. The optimal model was chosen based on the average C-index, and named Osteosarcoma Programmed Cell Death Score (OS-PCDS). To validate the predictive performance of our model across different datasets, we employed three independent GEO validation sets. Moreover, we assessed mRNA and protein expression levels of the genes included in our model, and investigated their impact on proliferation, migration, and apoptosis of osteosarcoma cells by gene knockdown experiments.

Result

In our extensive analysis, we identified 30 prognostic risk genes associated with programmed cell death (PCD) in osteosarcoma (OS). To assess the predictive power of these genes, we computed the C-index for various combinations. The model that employed the random survival forest (RSF) algorithm demonstrated superior predictive performance, significantly outperforming traditional approaches. This optimal model included five key genes: MTM1, MLH1, CLTCL1, EDIL3, and SQLE. To validate the relevance of these genes, we analyzed their mRNA and protein expression levels, revealing significant disparities between osteosarcoma cells and normal tissue cells. Specifically, the expression levels of these genes were markedly altered in OS cells, suggesting their critical role in tumor progression. Further functional validation was performed through gene knockdown experiments in U2OS cells. Knockdown of three of these genes—CLTCL1, EDIL3, and SQLE—resulted in substantial changes in proliferation rate, migration capacity, and apoptosis rate of osteosarcoma cells. These findings underscore the pivotal roles of these genes in the pathophysiology of osteosarcoma and highlight their potential as therapeutic targets.

Conclusion

The five genes constituting the OS-PCDS model—CLTCL1, MTM1, MLH1, EDIL3, and SQLE—were found to significantly impact the proliferation, migration, and apoptosis of osteosarcoma cells, highlighting their potential as key prognostic markers and therapeutic targets. OS-PCDS enables accurate evaluation of the prognosis in patients with osteosarcoma.
Electrogastrography measurement systems and analysis methods used in clinical practice and research: comprehensive review
Authors: Oczka David , Augustynek Martin , Penhaker Marek , Kubicek Jan
Published: July 2024

Electrogastrography (EGG) is a non-invasive method with high diagnostic potential for the prevention of gastroenterological pathologies in clinical practice. In this study, a review of the measurement systems, procedures, and methods of analysis used in electrogastrography is presented. A critical review of historical and current literature is conducted, focusing on electrode placement, measurement apparatus, measurement procedures, and time-frequency domain methods of filtration and analysis of the non-invasively measured electrical activity of the stomach. As a result, 129 relevant articles with primary aim on experimental diet were reviewed in this study. Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science databases were used to search for articles in English language, according to the specific query and using the PRISMA method. The research topic of electrogastrography has been continuously growing in popularity since the first measurement by professor Alvarez 100 years ago, and there are many researchers and companies interested in EGG nowadays. Measurement apparatus and procedures are still being developed in both commercial and research settings. There are plenty variable electrode layouts, ranging from minimal numbers of electrodes for ambulatory measurements to very high numbers of electrodes for spatial measurements. Most authors used in their research anatomically approximated layout with two++ active electrodes in bipolar connection and commercial electrogastrograph with sampling rate of 2 or 4 Hz. Test subjects were usually healthy adults and diet was controlled. However, evaluation methods are being developed at a slower pace, and usually the signals are classified only based on dominant frequency. The main review contributions include the overview of spectrum of measurement systems and procedures for electrogastrography developed by many authors, but a firm medical standard has not yet been defined. Therefore, it is not possible to use this method in clinical practice for objective diagnosis.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.prisma-statement.org/.
Sub-MIC antibiotics increased the fitness cost of CRISPR-Cas in Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Yu Ting , Huang Jiayuan , Huang Xinyue , Hao Jingchen , Zhang Pengyu , Guo Tingting , Bao Guangyu , Li Guocai
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The escalating prevalence of bacterial resistance, particularly multidrug-resistant bacteria like Acinetobacter baumannii, has become a significant global public health concern. The CRISPR-Cas system, a crucial defense mechanism in bacteria against foreign genetic elements, provides a competitive advantage. Type I-Fb and Type I-Fa are two subtypes of CRISPR-Cas systems that were found in A. baumannii, and the I-Fb CRISPR-Cas system regulates antibiotic resistance in A. baumannii. However, it is noteworthy that a majority of clinical isolates of A. baumannii lack or have incomplete CRISPR-Cas systems and most of them are multidrug-resistant. In light of this, our study aimed to examine the impact of antibiotic pressure on the fitness cost of the I-Fb CRISPR-Cas system in A. baumannii.

Methods and Results

In the study, we conducted in vitro competition experiments to investigate the influence of sub-minimum inhibitory concentration (sub-MIC) on the CRISPR-Cas systems’ fitness cost in A. baumannii. We found that the fitness cost of the CRISPR-Cas system was increased under sub-MIC conditions. The expression of CRISPR-Cas-related genes was decreased, while the conjugation frequency was increased in AB43 under sub-MIC conditions. Through metabolomic analysis, we identified that sub-MIC conditions primarily affected energy metabolism pathways. In particular, we observed increased carbon metabolism, nitrogen metabolism, and intracellular ATP. Notably, the CRISPR-Cas system demonstrated resistance to the efflux pump-mediated resistance. Furthermore, the expression of efflux pump-related genes was increased under sub-MIC conditions.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that the I-Fb CRISPR-Cas system confers a significant competitive advantage in A. baumanni. However, under sub-MIC conditions, its function and the ability to inhibit the energy required for efflux pumps are reduced, resulting in an increased fitness cost and loss of competitive advantage.
Tutor auditory memory for guiding sensorimotor learning in birdsong
Authors: Yazaki-Sugiyama Yoko
Published: July 2024

Memory-guided motor shaping is necessary for sensorimotor learning. Vocal learning, such as speech development in human babies and song learning in bird juveniles, begins with the formation of an auditory template by hearing adult voices followed by vocally matching to the memorized template using auditory feedback. In zebra finches, the widely used songbird model system, only males develop individually unique stereotyped songs. The production of normal songs relies on auditory experience of tutor’s songs (commonly their father’s songs) during a critical period in development that consists of orchestrated auditory and sensorimotor phases. “Auditory templates” of tutor songs are thought to form in the brain to guide later vocal learning, while formation of “motor templates” of own song has been suggested to be necessary for the maintenance of stereotyped adult songs. Where these templates are formed in the brain and how they interact with other brain areas to guide song learning, presumably with template-matching error correction, remains to be clarified. Here, we review and discuss studies on auditory and motor templates in the avian brain. We suggest that distinct auditory and motor template systems exist that switch their functions during development.
Differences in perceptual representations in multilinguals’ first, second, and third language
Authors: Chen Donggui , Su Jingan , Wang Ruiming
Published: July 2024

Two experiments were conducted to investigate the differences in perceptual representations among multilingual individuals. In Experiment 1, the immediate sentence-picture verification paradigm was used to investigate perceptual representations in the working memory stage. The results suggest a match effect within the first language (Cantonese), but not within the second language (Mandarin) or the third language (English), showing perceptual representations only in first language comprehension. In Experiment 2, the delayed sentence-picture verification paradigm was used to investigate perceptual representations in long-term memory. Similarly, the results suggest a match effect within the first language (Mandarin), but not within the second language (English). The findings of both experiments suggest that the first language was perceptually represented, regardless of whether it was Cantonese or Mandarin, regardless of the processing in working memory or long-term memory. No evidence was found for perceptual representations in the later-learned languages, regardless of high or low proficiency. Our study has implications for theories of language comprehension and embodied cognition.
Effects of daily probiotic supplementation with Lactobacillus acidophilus on calcium status, bone metabolism biomarkers, and bone mineral density in postmenopausal women: a controlled and randomized clinical study
Authors: Harahap Iskandar Azmy , Moszak Małgorzata , Czlapka-Matyasik Magdalena , Skrypnik Katarzyna , Bogdański Paweł , Suliburska Joanna
Published: July 2024

Background

Menopause poses significant health risks for women, particularly an increased vulnerability to fractures associated with osteoporosis. Dietary interventions have emerged as promising strategies, focusing on mitigating the risk of osteoporosis rather than solely addressing the established disease. This 12-week randomized controlled trial aimed to analyze the effects of consuming Lactobacillus acidophilus probiotics on calcium levels, biomarkers of bone metabolism, and bone mineral density (BMD) profiles in postmenopausal women.

Methods

Fifty-five participants were randomly assigned to receive either a placebo (n = 25) or the probiotic L. acidophilus UALa-01™ (n = 30) daily via oral intervention. Throughout the study, evaluations included body composition, blood biochemical parameters, serum calcium levels, and biomarkers of bone metabolism. Additionally, Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry was used to measure BMD profiles.

Results

The findings delineated that the probiotic group experienced a decrease in serum calcium levels compared to their initial levels. However, hair calcium levels and biomarkers related to bone metabolism showed no notable changes within this group. Consumption of probiotic L. acidophilus also seemed to prevent fluctuations in bone turnover markers. Moreover, there were no significant alterations in BMD levels at the lumbar spine, left femur, and total body in the probiotic group. Additionally, probiotic intake led to favorable outcomes by significantly reducing both body fat and visceral fat during the intervention period. Conversely, an adverse effect of consuming probiotic L. acidophilus was observed with a significant increase in glucose concentration.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the consumption of L. acidophilus probiotics daily for 12 weeks among postmenopausal women does not affect the profile of BMD, but it may help in stabilizing bone turnover. It is important to note that most measured parameters were within the normal range for this population. However, it is worth noting that 3 months of probiotic supplementation could potentially disrupt calcium and glucose status in postmenopausal women.
Segmentation model of soft tissue sarcoma based on self-supervised learning
Authors: Zheng Minting , Guo Chenhua , Zhu Yifeng , Gang Xiaoming , Fu Chongyang , Wang Shaowu
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Soft tissue sarcomas, similar in incidence to cervical and esophageal cancers, arise from various soft tissues like smooth muscle, fat, and fibrous tissue. Effective segmentation of sarcomas in imaging is crucial for accurate diagnosis.

Methods

This study collected multi-modal MRI images from 45 patients with thigh soft tissue sarcoma, totaling 8,640 images. These images were annotated by clinicians to delineate the sarcoma regions, creating a comprehensive dataset. We developed a novel segmentation model based on the UNet framework, enhanced with residual networks and attention mechanisms for improved modality-specific information extraction. Additionally, self-supervised learning strategies were employed to optimize feature extraction capabilities of the encoders.

Results

The new model demonstrated superior segmentation performance when using multi-modal MRI images compared to single-modal inputs. The effectiveness of the model in utilizing the created dataset was validated through various experimental setups, confirming the enhanced ability to characterize tumor regions across different modalities.

Discussion

The integration of multi-modal MRI images and advanced machine learning techniques in our model significantly improves the segmentation of soft tissue sarcomas in thigh imaging. This advancement aids clinicians in better diagnosing and understanding the patient's condition, leveraging the strengths of different imaging modalities. Further studies could explore the application of these techniques to other types of soft tissue sarcomas and additional anatomical sites.
Case report: Low-dose radiation-induced meningioma with a short latency period
Authors: Li Jinyang , Zhang Xiangmao , Liu Jing , Su Chunxia , Cui Junxiang , Yang Liling , Gu Yinghao
Published: July 2024

Patients with radiation-induced meningioma (RIM), most of whom had received head radiation therapy or had been exposed to ionizing radiation during childhood or adolescence, are at risk of developing cranial meningiomas throughout their lifetimes because of the long latency period. Although intermediate-to-high–dose ionizing radiation exposure is an established risk factor for RIM, risk factors for low-dose RIM remain incompletely defined. This study presents the case of a 56-year-old woman diagnosed with radiation-induced giant meningioma 2.5 years after undergoing an interventional embolization procedure for a brain aneurysm. This is the first report of RIM attributable to a brain intervention with an extremely short latency period. The total radiation dose received by the patient during the operation was 1367.3 mGy, representing a low dose. Our case report strengthens the evidence that even low radiation doses can increase the risk of RIM. These findings provide a realistic basis for the theoretical study of RIM and suggest some new ideas for RIM treatment. The need for caution in the use of radioactive treatments and optimization of interventional procedures is highlighted.
Induction chemotherapy with paclitaxel, carboplatin, and cetuximab (PCE) followed by chemoradiotherapy for unresectable locoregional recurrence after curative surgery in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck
Authors: Sato Masanobu , Enokida Tomohiro , Fujisawa Takao , Okano Susumu , Takeshita Naohiro , Tanaka Nobukazu , Tanaka Hideki , Motegi Atsushi , Zenda Sadamoto , Shinozaki Takeshi , Matsuura Kazuto , Hayashi Ryuichi , Akimoto Tetsuo , Tahara Makoto
Published: July 2024

Background

The significance of induction chemotherapy (IC) in the treatment of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) with unresectable locoregional recurrence after curative surgery has not been clarified. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of IC followed by chemoradiotherapy (CRT) in these patients.

Methods

Among patients with unresectable locoregional recurrent SCCHN who had not undergone prior irradiation and were eligible for cisplatin, we conducted a retrospective analysis of patients who received CRT following IC with paclitaxel, carboplatin, or cetuximab (IC-PCE group) and those who received CRT without prior IC (CRT group) between June 2013 and August 2021.

Result

Forty-two patients were included. The CRT group and IC-PCE group consisted of 15 and 27 patients, respectively. Primary site was the oral cavity (n=25), oropharynx (n=3), hypopharynx (n=13) and larynx (n=1). Objective response rate (ORR) with IC-PCE was 55.6%; 24 patients (88.9%) subsequently received CRT. ORR after completion of CRT was significantly better in the IC-PCE group (95.8% in the IC-PCE group vs. 66.7% in the CRT group, p=0.024). Progression-free survival (PFS) of the total population on median follow-up of 2.4 years (range: 0.8-7.3) tended to be better in the IC-PCE group (2-year PFS: 55.6% in the IC-PCE group vs. 33.3% in the CRT group, log-rank p=0.176), especially in oral cancer (2-year PFS: 37.5% in the IC-PCE group vs. 0% in the CRT group, log-rank p=0.015).

Conclusion

Therapeutic strategies including IC-PCE in patients with unresectable locoregional recurrent SCCHN after curative surgery may contribute to improved prognosis, especially in oral cancer.
Conventional management has a greater negative impact on Phaseolus vulgaris L. rhizobia diversity and abundance than water scarcity
Authors: del-Canto Arantza , Sanz-Saez Alvaro , Heath Katy D. , Grillo Michael A. , Heras Jónathan , Lacuesta Maite
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Drought is one of the biggest problems for crop production and also affects the survival and persistence of soil rhizobia, which limits the establishment of efficient symbiosis and endangers the productivity of legumes, the main source of plant protein worldwide.

Aim

Since the biodiversity can be altered by several factors including abiotic stresses or cultural practices, the objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of water availability, plant genotype and agricultural management on the presence, nodulation capacity and genotypic diversity of rhizobia.

Method

A field experiment was conducted with twelve common bean genotypes under irrigation and rain-fed conditions, both in conventional and organic management. Estimation of the number of viable rhizobia present in soils was performed before the crop establishment, whereas the crop yield, nodule number and the strain diversity of bacteria present in nodules were determined at postharvest.

Results

Rainfed conditions reduced the number of nodules and of isolated bacteria and their genetic diversity, although to a lesser extent than the agrochemical inputs related to conventional management. In addition, the effect of water scarcity on the conventional management soil was greater than observed under organic conditions.

Conclusions

The preservation of diversity will be a key factor to maintain crop production in the future, as problems caused by drought will be exacerbated by climate change and organic management can help to maintain the biodiversity of soil microbiota, a fundamental aspect for soil health and quality.
The mediating effects of moral disengagement and aggressive humor style: Dark Triad traits and schadenfreude
Authors: Sharafi Zadegan Milad , Pourhosein Reza , Azizi Zohreh
Published: July 2024

Background

While schadenfreude is commonly experienced in interpersonal relationships, it is generally considered immoral. Although previous research has explored the factors relating to schadenfreude, including certain personality traits, moral disengagement, and humor styles, our understanding of these factors remains limited. The present study examined the mediating effects of moral disengagement and aggressive humor style in the relationship between the Dark Triad traits and schadenfreude.

Methods

In this study, a sample of 693 Iranian students (69.4% female), was recruited using a convenient sampling method, consisting of 330 undergraduate, 230 graduate, and 133 Ph.D. students. The trait schadenfreude scale, the short Dark Triad, the moral disengagement scale, and the aggressive humor style scale were measured through an online survey.

Results

The study found that Machiavellianism, narcissism, and psychopathy were positively related to schadenfreude, aggressive humor style, and moral disengagement. Additionally, aggressive humor style and moral disengagement mediated the relationship between Machiavellianism, narcissism, and psychopathy with schadenfreude.

Conclusion

This study provides insights into the complex relationships between Dark Triad traits, moral disengagement, aggressive humor style, and schadenfreude. The findings suggest that individuals with higher levels of Dark Triad traits may be more likely to experience pleasure from others’ misfortunes. Furthermore, the study highlights the importance of moral disengagement and aggressive humor style as potential mechanisms underlying the relationship between Dark Triad traits and schadenfreude. Further research should be done to explore the motivational factors influencing schadenfreude in specific settings, thereby elucidating these connections.