bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Overview of Deep Learning Methods for Left Ventricle Segmentation
Authors: Shoaib Muhammad Ali , Chuah Joon Huang , Ali Raza , Hasikin Khairunnisa , Khalil Azira , Hum Yan Chai , Tee Yee Kai , Dhanalakshmi Samiappan , Lai Khin Wee
Published: January 2023

Cardiac health diseases are one of the key causes of death around the globe. The number of heart patients has considerably increased during the pandemic. Therefore, it is crucial to assess and analyze the medical and cardiac images. Deep learning architectures, specifically convolutional neural networks have profoundly become the primary choice for the assessment of cardiac medical images. The left ventricle is a vital part of the cardiovascular system where the boundary and size perform a significant role in the evaluation of cardiac function. Due to automatic segmentation and good promising results, the left ventricle segmentation using deep learning has attracted a lot of attention. This article presents a critical review of deep learning methods used for the left ventricle segmentation from frequently used imaging modalities including magnetic resonance images, ultrasound, and computer tomography. This study also demonstrates the details of the network architecture, software, and hardware used for training along with publicly available cardiac image datasets and self‐prepared dataset details incorporated. The summary of the evaluation matrices with results used by different researchers is also presented in this study. Finally, all this information is summarized and comprehended in order to assist the readers to understand the motivation and methodology of various deep learning models, as well as exploring potential solutions to future challenges in LV segmentation.
Preliminary Results of Bone Lengthening over Telescopic Titanium Intramedullary Rod
Authors: Mingazov Eduard , Gvozdev Nikita , Popkov Arnold , Journeau Pierre , Popkov Dmitry
Published: January 2023

Background. Limb lengthening and deformity correction in patients with abnormal bone associating fragility often require an approach combining methods of external and internal fixation. This study demonstrates results of simultaneous application of external fixator, and telescopic rod for femoral lengthening and deformity correction in three children with osteogenesis imperfecta or severe form of Ollier’s disease. Materials and Methods. Three patients (two boys with Ollier’s disease and a girl with osteogenesis imperfecta, type I) were operated on for femoral lengthening with combined technique associating Ilizarov frame and titanium telescopic intramedullary rodding. Results. Planned amount of lengthening and deformity correction were achieved for all patients. We found neither rod bending nor pull out of threaded tips. There was no difficulty of expanding of telescopic intramedullary rods made of titanium alloy during distraction phase of lengthening procedure. Conclusion. This short series proved feasibility of performing one-stage surgery with external frame and telescopic rodding in limb lengthening. The technique of telescopic rods in lengthening procedure is promising method requiring meticulous insertion of rod in centralized positioning in epiphysis. Acute alignment of the segment been elongating should be achieved at surgery. No any progressive angular deformity correction in postoperative period is authorized in order to avoid bending of telescopic rod. This combined approach does not affect bone healing.
Efficacy of Kami Guibi‐tang as an Add‐On Therapy to Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitor for Cognitive Function in Mild Alzheimer’s Disease: A Pilot Study
Authors: Kim Ha-Ri , Shin Hee-Yeon , Yim Tae-Bin , Jahng Geon-Ho , Jin Chul , Kwon Seungwon , Cho Seung-Yeon , Park Seong-Uk , Jung Woo-Sang , Moon Sang-Kwan , Ko Chang-Nam , Park Jung-Mi
Published: January 2023

Background. Kami Guibi‐tang (KGT), a traditional Korean herbal medicine is mainly used to treat insomnia and nervousness. Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (AChEIs) are the main treatments for mild Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a degenerative brain disease. However, currently no drug can fundamentally treat AD or reverse the advanced cognitive decline. This clinical study explored the efficacy and safety of adding KGT to AChEI for cognitive function in mild AD. Methods. This was a pilot study for a larger randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial. Participants between 55–90 years diagnosed with mild AD were recruited from Kyung Hee University Hospital at Gangdong, Seoul, Korea. They were randomized to receive either KGT or placebo for 24 weeks, in addition to their regular AChEI. The primary outcome was treatment efficacy, as assessed by the relative amount of change over the study period in total scores on the Dementia version of the Seoul Neuropsychological Screening Battery (SNSB‐D). Changes in SNSB subscores were assessed as secondary outcomes. Safety parameters, including adverse events and abnormalities in blood tests, electrocardiograms, and brain magnetic resonance imaging were also monitored. Results. Between March 2018 and November 2020, seven participants each in the KGT group and the placebo group completed the 24‐week trial. There were no significant changes in SNSB‐D total or subindex scores for either group (p = 0.69 and 0.63, respectively), and no significant differences were observed between them (p = 0.71). No adverse events related to KGT were reported. We also compared and analyzed the results of a previous pilot study conducted on amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) using protocol of this study. The aMCI group showed a significant improvement in the total SNSB‐D score, especially in the memory domain, compared to the mild AD group (p = 0.04 and 0.02, respectively). The Korean Mini‐Mental State Exam and Korean Instrumental Activities of Daily Living scores also significantly improved in the aMCI group (p = 0.01 and 0.02, respectively). Conclusions. Compared to placebo, adding KGT to AChEI did not significantly improve cognitive function in SNSB in patients with mild AD. We suggest that KGT would have a positive effect on patients with early stages of cognitive impairment such as aMCI. The findings could assist design larger, longer‐term clinical trials of KGT use in elderly patients with mild AD. This study was registered in the Korean Clinical Trial Registry on December 26, 2017, with the CRIS approval number KCT0002904.
Distributed Controller Placement in Software-Defined Networks with Consistency and Interoperability Problems
Authors: Yusuf Muhammed Nura , Bin Abu Bakar Kamalrulnizam , Isyaku Babangida , Mukhlif Fadhil
Published: January 2023

Software-defined networking (SDN) brings an innovative approach to networking by adopting a flow-centric model and removing networking decisions from the data plane to provide them centrally from the control plane. A single centralized controller is used in a traditional SDN design. However, the complexity of modern networks, due to their size and requirements’ coarseness, has made using a single controller a source of performance bottlenecks. Similarly, the solution found by using multiple controllers in distributed control planes brings forth the profound issue of interoperability, consistency, and the “controller placement problem” (CPP). It is an NP-hard problem that deals with positioning controllers at optimum locations within the network and mapping with resources at the data plane to meet quality of service (QoS) requirements. Over the years, the problem has received significant attention from the research community, and many solutions have been considered. This paper offers an in-depth review of the proposals by providing an updated evolution of the problem concerning the application environment, design objectives, and cost and controller type. Based on our findings, new research ideas were identified and discussed.
Extracellular Vesicle-Loaded Oncogenic lncRNA NEAT1 from Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Confers Gemcitabine Resistance in Pancreatic Cancer via miR-491-5p/Snail/SOCS3 Axis
Authors: Wu Rongxiang , Su Zhan , Zhao Le , Pei Ruifeng , Ding Yiren , Li Deqiang , Zhu Shuo , Xu Lu , Zhao Wei , Zhou Wuyuan
Published: January 2023

It is becoming increasingly evident that key mechanisms of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) efficacy appear to associate with paracrine activities, and the delivery of cargos through extracellular vesicles (EVs) controls the mechanistic actions of MSCs. Thus, this study clarified a possible mechanism by which EV-encapsulated NEAT1 from adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) might mediate gemcitabine resistance in pancreatic cancer (PCa). Microarray profile suggested a differentially expressed lncRNA NEAT1 in PCa, and we determined its expression in PCa cells. NEAT1 was found to be upregulated in PCa. The binding affinity among NEAT1, miR-491-5p, and Snail was identified through bioinformatic analysis and experimental validation. NEAT1 competitively bound to miR-491-5p to elevate Snail expression and diminish SOCS3 expression. PCa cells were cocultured with EVs extracted from ADSCs, followed by assessment of malignant phenotypes, tumorigenesis, and gemcitabine resistance of PCa cells using gain- or loss-of-function experiments. ADSC-derived EVs carrying NEAT1 promoted PCa cell proliferation, migration, and gemcitabine resistance in vitro and enhanced tumorigenicity in vivo by inhibiting miR-491-5p and SOCS3 and upregulating Snail. Collectively, the findings from our study found a new potential strategy for gemcitabine resistance in PCa by illustrating the mechanistic insights of oncogenic ADSC-derived EVs-loaded NEAT1 via regulating the miR-491-5p/Snail/SOCS3 axis.
Dynamic Simulation Analysis of the Antiswing Device for Ship-Mounted Batch Transfer Hanging Basket
Authors: Wang Jianli , Li Haolin , Wang Shenghai , Chen Haiquan , Sun Yuqing
Published: January 2023

When the rescue vessels use the hanging basket to transfer the wounded at sea, under the action of waves, the ship causes the hanging basket to swing significantly. To prevent the second injury to the wounded caused by the large swing of hanging basket, a rope-driven rigid-flexible hybrid hanging basket antiswing control system is designed, the control principle of the system is introduced, and an accurate dynamics model of the system is established based on the D’Alembert principle, the rigid-flexible hybrid model is used to the antiswing control and simulation of the ship-mounted batch transfer hanging basket for the first time. Analyzed its control principle and simulate the variations in length, velocity, acceleration, and force changes of the control ropes. By installing rigid bal-hinge telescopic sleeve, the simulation results indicate that the indicators of the driving ropes are smooth and continuous and the value changes are also within a suitable range. The force on the four control ropes has been reduced by ∼24.1%, 23%, 26.4%, and 25.1%, resulting in the force that is more reasonable and enhancing the safety of hanging basket system. The hanging basket antiswing device is capable of compensating for rolling and pitching motions at sea and has a strong impact on swinging.
LKB1-Dependent Regulation of TPI1 Creates a Divergent Metabolic Liability between Human and Mouse Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Stein Benjamin D. , Ferrarone John R. , Gardner Eric E. , Chang Jae Won , Wu David , Hollstein Pablo E. , Liang Roger J. , Yuan Min , Chen Qiuying , Coukos John S. , Sindelar Miriam , Ngo Bryan , Gross Steven S. , Shaw Reuben J. , Zhang Chen , Asara John M. , Moellering Raymond E. , Varmus Harold , Cantley Lewis C.
Published: January 2023

KRAS is the most frequently mutated oncogene in human lung adenocarcinomas (hLUAD), and activating mutations frequently co-occur with loss-of-function mutations in TP53 or STK11/LKB1. However, mutation of all three genes is rarely observed in hLUAD, even though engineered comutation is highly aggressive in mouse lung adenocarcinoma (mLUAD). Here, we provide a mechanistic explanation for this difference by uncovering an evolutionary divergence in the regulation of triosephosphate isomerase (TPI1). In hLUAD, TPI1 activity is regulated via phosphorylation at Ser21 by the salt inducible kinases (SIK) in an LKB1-dependent manner, modulating flux between the completion of glycolysis and production of glycerol lipids. In mice, Ser21 of TPI1 is a Cys residue that can be oxidized to alter TPI1 activity without a need for SIKs or LKB1. Our findings suggest this metabolic flexibility is critical in rapidly growing cells with KRAS and TP53 mutations, explaining why the loss of LKB1 creates a liability in these tumors.

Significance:

Utilizing phosphoproteomics and metabolomics in genetically engineered human cell lines and genetically engineered mouse models (GEMM), we uncover an evolutionary divergence in metabolic regulation within a clinically relevant genotype of human LUAD with therapeutic implications. Our data provide a cautionary example of the limits of GEMMs as tools to study human diseases such as cancers.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 799
Relationship between Social Capital and General Health among the Iranian University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Yoosefi lebni Javad , Ahmadi Ahmad , Mohammadi Gharehghani Mohammad Ali , Dehghan Ali Akbar , Mansourian Morteza , Ziapour Arash , Irandoost Seyed Fahim
Published: January 2023

The most basic axis of a society’s economic and social growth is health, and social capital is a major factor in determining that development. The purpose of this research was to evaluate, among the student body of Iran University of Medical Sciences, the connection that exists between social capital and overall health. This study used a descriptive-analytical approach to cross-sectional research. Students attending the Iran University of Medical Sciences constituted the statistical population. The approach developed by Cochran was used to pick 367 students at random. The demographic information form, two versions of the Delaviz Social Capital Questionnaire (2006), and Goldberg and Hiller’s General Health Questionnaire (1979), served as the data collection tools. Using Cronbach’s alpha test, the reliability of the first two sets of questionnaires was determined to be 0.73 and 0.78, respectively. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, statistical tests, and regression after being loaded into SPSS version 22. It was shown that general health was significantly related to the factors of gender, location of living, and degree of education (p < 0.05). It was shown via the use of regression that there is a statistically significant association between social capital and the two dimensions of group involvement and relationships in networks. These two dimensions had the biggest influence on general health and explained 39% of its variations. The overall health of students was not significantly affected by factors such as age, educational level, or marital status (p > 0.05). It is feasible to improve students’ overall health if social capital is increased, more students are encouraged to participate in group projects, and students’ ties with one another inside and outside their networks are expanded.
Optical Quality Variation of Different Intraocular Lens Designs in a Model Eye: Lens Placed Correctly and in an Upside-Down Position
Authors: Lacort Marta , Pérez-Gracia Jesús , Ares Jorge , Remón Laura
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Intraocular lenses (IOLs) may lose their optical quality if they are not correctly placed inside the capsular bag once implanted. One possible malpositioning of the IOL could be the implantation in an upside-down position. In this work, three aspheric IOLs with different spherical aberration (SA) have been designed and numerically tested to analyse the optical quality variation with the IOL flip, and misalignments, using a theoretical model eye. Methods: Using the commercial optical design software OSLO, the effect of decentration and tilt was evaluated by numerical ray tracing in two conditions: in their designed position and flipped with respect to the planned position (IOL is implanted upside down). The theoretical model eye used was the Atchison model eye. Seven IOL designs of +27.00 diopters were used: a lens with negative SA to correct the corneal SA, a lens to partially correct the corneal SA, and a lens to not add any SA to the cornea (aberration-free IOL). These lenses were designed with the aspherical surface located on the anterior and posterior IOL surface. A lens with no aspherical surfaces was also included. For the optical quality analysis, the modulation transfer function (MTF) was used, together with the Zernike wavefront aberration coefficients of defocus, astigmatism, and primary coma. Results: Off-centring and tilting the IOL reduced overall MTF values and increased wavefront aberration errors. With the IOL correctly positioned within the capsular bag, an aberration-free IOL is the best choice for maintaining optical quality. When the IOL is flipped inside the capsular bag, the optical quality changes, with the aberration-free IOL and the IOL without aspheric surfaces providing the worst results. With the lens in an upside-down position, an IOL design to partially correct corneal SA shows the best optical quality results in decentration and tilt, in terms of MTF and wavefront aberrations. Conclusion: The aberration-free IOL is the best choice when minimal postoperative errors of decentration or tilt are predicted. With IOL flip, the negative SA lens design is the best choice, regarding the root mean square wavefront aberrations. However, in a proper IOL implantation, the IOL designed to partially compensate the corneal SA including asphericity on its posterior surface is the better possible option, even in the presence of decentration or tilt.
Usefulness of Dermoscopy in Eruptive Syringomas in an Elderly Woman
Authors: Capurro Niccolò , Herzum Astrid , Cozzani Emanuele , Burlando Martina , Riva Silvia , Paudice Michele , Parodi Aurora
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Eruptive syringomas (ES) are a rare variant of syringomas, benign adnexal tumors of eccrine sweat glands’ ducts. They mostly affect young-to middle-aged women, but rarely they may also occur in the elderly, requiring generally no specific treatment. Case Presentation: We present the case of a 76-year-old woman with sudden onset of ES. Clinical examination evidenced brown-to-orange papules and plaques on the anterior neck, corresponding dermatoscopically to orange-brownish structureless areas, with barely hinted peripheral incomplete network, superimposed on areas of light pink. Histology showed dermal proliferation of epithelial cells forming cords and ductules, confirming the clinical-dermoscopic suspect of ES. The lesions remained stable at 12-month follow-up without treatment. Discussion: This case highlights the role of dermoscopy to help differentiate ES from other clinically similar but more serious entities, such as histiocytosis, mastocytosis, and lichen planus, and to schedule the required confirmatory biopsy in due time without haste.
Assessing the Effect of an Inpatient Smoking Cessation Brief Intervention Tool on Long-Term Smoking Cessation Rates and Patient Interest for Nicotine Replacement Therapy: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Vitangcol Kathryn , Puljevic Cheneal , Snoswell Centaine
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Smoking cessation among hospital inpatients is essential to reduce risk of surgical complications and all-cause mortality. In the Australian state of Queensland, the Smoking Cessation Clinical Pathway (SCCP), a brief intervention tool, has been used by clinical staff in public hospitals to uniformly support patients to quit smoking since 2015. This study aims to assess the effect of the SCCP on long-term smoking cessation rates recorded in subsequent readmissions, and whether the SCCP as an intervention affects inpatients’ interest in nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) during admission and after discharge. Methods: We retrospectively analysed data provided by the Princess Alexandra Hospital (PAH) on patients who self-identified as a current smoker on admission to any ward and were admitted to the PAH between 1st January 2018 and 31st December 2019. Smoking cessation rates and patient interest in NRT by SCCP completion were analysed using χ2 tests and a multinomial logistic regression. Results: Of 1,902 included patients, NRT was offered to 1,397 patients (73.4%) and accepted by 332 patients (17.5%). Patients who had completed a SCCP were more likely to be offered NRT than those who had not (p < 0.0001). Of the 452 patients with multiple readmissions, 100 (22%) ceased smoking at any point in the 2-year study period. At the end of the 2-year study period, 75 (75%) patients remained abstinent and only 25 (25%) relapsed to smoking as per their final smoking status at the end of the 2-year study period. Patients with a completed SCCP were 1.8 times (RRR: 1.825, p = 0.030) more likely to quit smoking at any point in the 2-year study period, and twice as likely to have quit at the end of the 2-year study period (RRR: 2.064, p = 0.044). Discussion: The SCCP may be effective at increasing smoking cessation rates among hospital inpatients. Future policies promoting long-term smoking cessation should consider implementation of post-discharge follow-up appointments.
Precision Nutrition for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention
Authors: Desjardins Louis-Charles , Vohl Marie-Claude
Published: January 2023

Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death globally, making their prevention a major challenge for modern society. For decades, treatments aimed at reducing CVD risk factors through nutritional recommendations and medications have had variable success. One of the main reasons behind this is the interindividual variability in response to drugs and nutritional interventions. The development of genomics has allowed the discovery of genetic variants influencing drug and food response, leading to more personalized treatments in the form of precision medicine and precision nutrition. The latter is founded on the principle that one diet does not fit all and the need to stratify individuals into subgroups based on their response to food and nutrients. Despite showing great promise in pushing forward the field of nutrition, health professionals have very little knowledge of precision nutrition, even though the general population is showing interest in more personalized nutritional guidance. Summary: This review aimed to provide an overview of key sources of interindividual variability observed in CVD risk factors in response to nutritional interventions. Despite some limitations, genetic testing is a mature predictive tool that should be at the forefront of tailored nutrition recommendations for CVD prevention. Although the epigenome-diet relationship shows great promise, it is still too early in its development to allow for its clinical deployment. Metabolomics has the potential to enhance genetic testing by complementing traditional self-reported dietary intake instruments as well as a very promising metabotyping method. Microbiome phenotyping, despite its complexity, provides a wealth of information on the health status of the host and its response to food and nutrients. Finally, current applications are discussed and an outline of the required steps for a successful implementation of precision nutrition in clinical practice as a tool for CVD prevention is presented. Key Messages: Precision nutrition is the cornerstone of a promising approach offering targeted nutritional recommendations for CVD prevention.
Morphological Characteristics of Foveal Pit Base and Its Impact on Visual Acuity in Macular Pseudoholes
Authors: Yang Xiaohan , Wu Xijin , Yu Yanping , Zhang Ke , Qi Biying , Wang Xinbo , Liu Wu
Published: January 2023

Introduction: To investigate the characteristics of macular pseudoholes (MPHs) with different foveal profiles and their impact on preoperative and postoperative visual acuity (VA). Methods: A retrospective review of 47 eyes from 46 consecutive patients with MPH who had undergone vitrectomy was conducted. The MPHs were classified into u-shape and v-shape according to the morphological description of the foveola base. The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central foveal point thickness, parafoveal thickness, parafoveal inner and outer retinal thickness, stretched lamellar cleavage, microcystic macular edema (MME), disorganization of retinal inner layers (DRIL), and the integrity of outer retinal layers were recorded. Results: The eyes in the v-shaped group (n = 31) had lower BCVA, thicker retinal thickness, more intraretinal cleavage, MME, and DRIL than the u-shaped (n = 16) group (all p < 0.05). Multiple regression analysis revealed that the morphology of the foveola base was significantly related to the preoperative BCVA (p = 0.025). The VA was significantly improved in both groups, and the improvement was greater in the v-shaped group (p = 0.024). No significant difference was found in the postoperative BCVA between the two groups (all p > 0.05). Conclusion: The v-shape, reflecting the stretch in the foveola, had a significant impact on preoperative BCVA. However, the VA was improved after surgery whatever their initial foveal profile.
Efficacy, Efficiency, and Acceptability of Telemedicine for Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients’ Follow-Up Care during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Ramos Laura , Reygosa Cristina , Carrillo-Palau Marta , Alonso-Abreu Inmaculada , González-Mendez Yanira , de la Barreda Raquel , Amaral Carla , Hernández Anjara , Benítez-Zafra Federica , Hernandez-Guerra Manuel
Published: January 2023

Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, ambulatory clinic visits were replaced by the implementation of telehealth modalities in most inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) units. Aims: The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy, efficiency, patient satisfaction, and acceptability of using telephone consultation in an IBD unit. Methods: A prospective cohort study was performed in IBD patients who underwent telephone consultation during COVID-19 lockdown (between 16th March and 13th April 2020). To assess the efficacy of this telephone consultation (lockdown visit), nonscheduled visits, emergency consultation, hospital admission, and surgery from lockdown visit to the next scheduled consultation (post-lockdown) were checked. To evaluate efficiency, the time between lockdown visit and post-lockdown consultation was compared with previous consultation (pre-lockdown), and the total number of visits 12 months before and after lockdown visit was checked. A telephone survey was designed to rate perception for a telephone consultation. Results: Out of a total of 274 patients, 220 patients (52.2% male; mean age 49 ± 16 years; Crohn’s disease, n = 126; ulcerative colitis, n = 83; indeterminate colitis, n = 11) were included. Only one patient was consulted at the emergency department, 11 patients needed to rearrange the visit, and none patient underwent surgery before the scheduled post-lockdown visit. The interval to post-lockdown visit compared to pre-lockdown visit increased in 37.7% of patients. The satisfaction survey (n = 185) revealed that 94.6% perceived it was effective. However, 44.4% of patients rather prefer on-site consultation for follow-up. Conclusions: Telemedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic was shown to be effective and efficient to care for IBD patients. In addition, telephone consultation is well accepted by patients in non-extended follow-up periods.
Moral Development during Emerging Adulthood: Theoretical Considerations and a Neo-Aristotelian Approach
Authors: Eustice-Corwin Alexander , Lynch Martin F. , Sörensen Silvia
Published: January 2023

Moral development during emerging adulthood is a topic of growing interest. Several different theories within the study of human development appear to converge on this point of inquiry, as the study of moral development during emerging adulthood recruits different areas of expertise. This paper explores different theoretical approaches to the study of moral development during emerging adulthood and demonstrates the need for interdisciplinary collaboration. The overall shape of the exploration is governed by broad philosophical considerations grounded in the ethics of Aristotle. First, Aristotle’s ideas are adapted to a developmental paradigm, providing an overarching theory of moral development. Second, the study of moral development during emerging adulthood is situated within the relational developmental system metatheory of human development. These first two theories provide a framework for “moral” and “development,” respectively. Additional conceptual and theoretical issues are addressed as they arise, including moral identity and the link between virtue and happiness.
Comparing Single-Incision Midurethral Sling with Bulking Agents for Female Stress Urinary Incontinence: Rationale for a Non-Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Osse Nienke J.E. , Schonewille Marit E.A. , Engberts Marian K. , Blanker Marco H. , Klerkx Wenche M. , van Eijndhoven Hugo W.F.
Published: January 2023

Objectives: Midurethral slings are considered the gold standard for the surgical treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI), with an efficacy up to 80%. Another therapeutic option is the use of bulking agents, which create an artificial mass in the urethral submucosa, with an efficacy varying from 64% to 74%. Although bulking agents have a lower risk of complications than midurethral sling surgery, they are mainly used in case a midurethral sling is not an option or if midurethral sling surgery failed to cure stress urinary incontinence. In this study, we offer all patients with SUI in secondary care a choice between a single-incision midurethral sling procedure and treatment with a bulking agent. We want to examine patient preference and patient satisfaction for both procedures. We expect that offering both interventions in combination with standardized counselling will result in high patient satisfaction. Design: In this non-randomized controlled trial, 266 patients will be objectively counselled for both interventions, after which all patients will choose between single-incision midurethral slings and polyacrylamide hydrogel (PAHG), followed by the standard care procedure for women with SUI. Participants/Materials, Setting, Methods: From January 1, 2021, onward, all consecutive adult patients (between 18 and 80 years of age) attending the outpatient gynaecology department with objectively confirmed, moderate to severe SUI will be eligible for enrolment in this non-randomized study. The primary outcome is patient satisfaction at 1 year, measured by the Patient Global Impression of Improvement; secondary outcomes are patient satisfaction at 3 months, objective and subjective cure at 3 months and 1 year, adverse events, post-operative pain, and cost-effectiveness. Differences in outcome measures will be assessed through logistic and linear regression analyses, both unadjusted and adjusted with covariate adjustment using the propensity score. Results: No results are available yet. Limitations: The major disadvantage of this study design is the potential confounding bias. We intend to eliminate this bias by applying propensity scoring. Conclusion: By designing a non-randomized patient preference trial, we not only expect to demonstrate high patient satisfaction with both interventions but also provide insight into the possible role of PAHG-injections in the treatment of female SUI as a first-choice non-conservative treatment.
Ultrastructural and Molecular Evidence of Macroautophagy in Functioning PitNETs and Experimental Pituitary Tumors
Authors: Cecenarro Laura Anahi , Moyano Crespo Gabriela Deisi , Guido Carolina Beatriz , Pérez Pablo Anibal , Faure Erica Elizabeth , Picech Florencia , Rossetto Sofía Victoria , De Battista Juan Carlos , Gutiérrez Silvina , Torres Alicia Inés , Petiti Juan Pablo , Mukdsi Jorge Humberto
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Macroautophagy is a lysosome-mediated degradation process that controls the quality of cytoplasmic components and organelles, with its regulation depending on autophagy-related proteins (Atg) and with Beclin1/Atg6 and microtubule-associated protein light chain 3 (LC3/Atg8) being key players in the mammalian autophagy. As reports on this mechanism in the field of pituitary neuropathology and neuroendocrinology are scarce, our study analyzed the ultrastructural signs of macroautophagy and the expression of Beclin1 and LC3 proteins in human functioning PitNETs and in experimental pituitary tumors. Methods: A group of humans functioning PitNETs and an experimental lactotroph model in rats of the F344 strain stimulated with estradiol benzoate (BE) were used. Ultrastructural and molecular evidence of the macroautophagic process was evaluated using different techniques. Results: In functioning PitNETs cohort, 60% exhibited evidence of macroautophagy, with a significant difference found for Beclin1 and LC3 between macro- and micro-PitNETs (p < 0.05). In the experimental model, the expression of both Beclin1 and LC3 proteins was immunopositive in normal and tumoral glands when analyzed by immunofluorescence, Western blot, and immunohistochemistry. In the experimental model, protein expression was associated with increased glandular size and weight. Conclusions: Our study revealed evidence of macroautophagy at the pituitary level and the important role of Beclin1 and LC3 in the progression of functioning PitNETs, implying that this mechanism participate in regulating pituitary cell growth.
CNP Promotes Antiarrhythmic Effects via Phosphodiesterase 2
Authors: Cachorro Eleder , Günscht Mario , Schubert Mario , Sadek Mirna S. , Siegert Johanna , Dutt Fabian , Bauermeister Carla , Quickert Susann , Berning Henrik , Nowakowski Felix , Lämmle Simon , Firneburg Rebecca , Luo Xiaojing , Künzel Stephan R. , Klapproth Erik , Mirtschink Peter , Mayr Manuel , Dewenter Matthias , Vettel Christiane , Heijman Jordi , Lorenz Kristina , Guan Kaomei , El-Armouche Ali , Wagner Michael , Kämmerer Susanne
Published: January 2023

Background:

Ventricular arrhythmia and sudden cardiac death are the most common lethal complications after myocardial infarction. Antiarrhythmic pharmacotherapy remains a clinical challenge and novel concepts are highly desired. Here, we focus on the cardioprotective CNP (C-type natriuretic peptide) as a novel antiarrhythmic principle. We hypothesize that antiarrhythmic effects of CNP are mediated by PDE2 (phosphodiesterase 2), which has the unique property to be stimulated by cGMP to primarily hydrolyze cAMP. Thus, CNP might promote beneficial effects of PDE2-mediated negative crosstalk between cAMP and cGMP signaling pathways.

Methods:

To determine antiarrhythmic effects of cGMP-mediated PDE2 stimulation by CNP, we analyzed arrhythmic events and intracellular trigger mechanisms in mice in vivo, at organ level and in isolated cardiomyocytes as well as in human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes.

Results:

In ex vivo perfused mouse hearts, CNP abrogated arrhythmia after ischemia/reperfusion injury. Upon high-dose catecholamine injections in mice, PDE2 inhibition prevented the antiarrhythmic effect of CNP. In mouse ventricular cardiomyocytes, CNP blunted the catecholamine-mediated increase in arrhythmogenic events as well as in I
CaL
, I
NaL
, and Ca
2+
spark frequency. Mechanistically, this was driven by reduced cellular cAMP levels and decreased phosphorylation of Ca
2+
handling proteins. Key experiments were confirmed in human iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes. Accordingly, the protective CNP effects were reversed by either specific pharmacological PDE2 inhibition or cardiomyocyte-specific PDE2 deletion.

Conclusions:

CNP shows strong PDE2-dependent antiarrhythmic effects. Consequently, the CNP-PDE2 axis represents a novel and attractive target for future antiarrhythmic strategies.
Sin and Bodily Illness in the Psalms
Authors: Zahl Simeon
Published: January 2023

Much recent Christian theology has sought to reconsider the significance of the body in theological reflection. At the same time, a number of areas of suffering traditionally associated with the experience of sin have come to be reinterpreted, for good reasons, as medical disorders without moral valence. The result is that the doctrine of sin has become increasingly dissociated from the body in contemporary theology. This article addresses this dissociation by exploring the difficulty posed to interpreters by the correlation in Psalms 32 and 38 between unforgiven sin and bodily suffering and dysfunction. After showing that this correlation has been a source of significant difficulties for modern interpreters, the essay concludes by examining the potential of an Augustinian reading of these Psalms in terms of the relationship between mortality and original sin.
Lamourouxia (Orobanchaceae) of Mexico
Authors: FRANCISCO-GUTIÉRREZ ANTONIO , RUIZ-SANCHEZ EDUARDO , GONZÁLEZ DOLORES , LIRA-NORIEGA ANDRÉS
Published: January 2023

Lamourouxia is a Neotropical genus currently classified within the tribe Pedicularideae (Orobanchaceae), a clade of root hemiparasitic plants. It comprises 30 species endemic to the Americas. The genus was last studied as a whole in 1972. Some species have not been collected since that date. Half a century later, based on the revision of 1,284 herbarium specimens of Lamourouxia, 119 digitized specimens, and 43 observations of citizen science, here we present an update of the taxonomic classification, nomenclature, diversity, distribution, uses, and ecology of the Lamourouxia species in Mexico, the country with the highest species richness and highest number of endemic species of the genus (26 and 20 species, respectively). Typifications of valid names and synonyms are given. Also, it is presented the change of the name Lamourouxia barbata instead of L. lanceolata. New diagnostic characters, keys for the species, ecological data, and photographs of the species in the field are provided to facilitate the identification and study of the species of this fascinating genus of hemiparasitic plants.
Cyrtomium calcis sp. nov. and six new records of the shield fern family (Dryopteridaceae) from Vietnam
Authors: LU NGAN THI , WEI HONG-JIN , VUONG LUONG DINH , TOAN LE CHI , ZHANG LI-BING , ZHANG LIANG
Published: January 2023

We describe a new species of Cyrtomium, C. calcis, from northern Vietnam and southern China, and report new records of six species in two fern genera, Arachniodes and Polystichum, of Dryopteridaceae, i.e., Arachniodes amabilis (from Lamdong Province), A. amoena (Quangtri Province), A. fengii (Nghean Province), A. globisora (Thanhhoa, Quangtri, and Laocai provinces), and A. nigrossora (Vinhphuc Province), and Polystichum ariticulatipilosum (Hagiang Province). The new species of Cyrtomium most closely resembles C. pachyphyllum, but can be distinguished from the latter in the shape of petiole scales, number of lateral pinna pairs, venation, and lamina shape. Detailed description, images, notes, type information, examined specimens, distribution, and habitat are provided for the new species and new records. The status of the new species is provisionally assessed here as endangered (EN) following the IUCN Categories and Criteria.
Review of Eriosema (Leguminosae) of Florae Fluminensis from São Paulo state, Brazil
Authors: DE MENEZES HELEN F. , DE QUEIROZ LUCIANO P. , REMOR Danielle , PASTORE JOSÉ FLORIANO B.
Published: January 2023

Two taxonomic novelties in Eriosema were found during the review of Leguminosae names published in Vellozo’s Florae Fluminensis, in which Cytisus brasiliensis and C. unilateralis were revised and combined in Eriosema (respectively as E. brasiliense and E. unilateralis). The reviews included field expeditions to the most likely original localities of the species (Estrada Real de Cunha, in the state of São Paulo, Brazil), providing the analysis of herbarium specimens, taxonomic notes, morphological taxonomic plates, and distribution maps. The newly combined names were lectotypified, with epitypes collected in their most likely typical locations. A new occurrence for the Eriosema brasiliense species was recorded for the state of São Paulo.
New insights on Polianthes montana (Asparagaceae, Agavoideae) and the description of P. aarodriguezii a new species, both from Sierra Madre Occidental, Mexico
Authors: CASTRO-CASTRO ARTURO , GONZÁLEZ-BERNAL MARCO ANTONIO , ROJAS-AGUILAR EDMI ITZEL
Published: January 2023

Botanical explorations in Sierra Madre Occidental, Mexico resulted in the location of new populations of Polianthes montana in the south of Durango state. This species is little known and there are conflicts on its identification and geographic distribution range, for these reasons here are provided discussions and an extended morphological description. Also, additional individuals from a Polianthes population were collected almost on the border of the states of Durango and Sinaloa, and after a rigorous analysis of the specimens, it was concluded that they do not belong to any of the known taxa in the genus and it is proposed here as a new species that morphologically resembles P. alboaustralis and P. montana but differs from the former in having (1–)3–4 ensiform leaves (vs. 2–6 linear), raceme inflorescence (vs. spike), perigone without a nectary (vs. nectary present in the floral tube), and filaments 6.5–9.7 mm long (vs. 2–10 mm long). From P. montana, it differs in the perigone size (5–5.5 × 0.4–0.7 cm vs. 2–2.8 × 0.3–0.5 cm), the orientation and size of perigone lobes (diffuse to divergent, 5.6–6.8 × 3.4–5 mm vs. adpressed to assurgent, 2.4–3 mm × 1.9–2.3 mm), longer filaments (6.5–9.7 mm vs. 5–5.4 cm), and styles (4.2–4.8 cm vs. 1.7–2 cm). Photographs, notes on phenology, geographic distribution, conservation status, and habitat are included, along with a map and an identification key to Polianthes subgenus Polianthes.
Taxonomic studies on Parahellenia (Costaceae) in Vietnam: a new species, P. trongduyii, and a new combination, P. candida
Authors: CHEN JUAN , NGUYEN VAN CANH , NGUYEN VAN KHUONG , NGUYEN KHANG SINH , NURALIEV MAXIM S. , XIA NIANHE
Published: January 2023

Parahellenia trongduyii, a new species of Costaceae from Vietnam, is described and illustrated. The new species is similar to P. tonkinensis, but differs in unbranched or barely branched stems, narrowly triangular-lanceolate glabrous buds, bract apex with a soft mucro, yellow to whitish yellow labellum with longitudinal orange to red lines at center, longer anther crest and stigma with a slightly bilobed dorsal appendage. A new combination, Parahellenia candida, is proposed for the species earlier known as Cheilocostus candidus. A key to Parahellenia in Vietnam is also provided.
After more than half a century: Dielis diabo (Hymenoptera: Scoliidae: Scoliinae), a new scoliid from the Neotropics
Authors: GOLFETTI IVAN FERNANDES , NOLL FERNANDO BARBOSA
Published: January 2023

A new species of Scoliidae, Dielis diabo n. sp., is described from material previously collected and misidentified as Dielis dorsata Fabricius, 1787 after almost 60 years since the last description of a neotropical scoliid. Detailed morphological descriptions of the female and male are presented, as well as differences between the new species and Dielis dorsata.
Opening a wide range of new morphological features for the genus Geocharis Ehlers, 1883 with the redescription of Geocharis ruiztapiadori Zaballos, 1997
Authors: ALBATROS ÁLVARO , RAMOS FERNANDO ACEVEDO , PÉREZ-GONZÁLEZ SERGIO
Published: January 2023

Geocharis ruiztapiadori Zaballos, 1997 is redescribed, increasing more than double the morphological features used in the genus, that includes a dimorphic character and several autapomorphies. The first specimen outside of the type location is found, with a representative difference in ring sclerite. New structures described open a new way to study the Geocharis morphology and deepen into the relations with other genus of the tribe.
A new species of the genus Clyzomedus Pascoe, 1865 from China (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae: Lamiinae: Mesosini)
Authors: LIN MEI-YING , CHEN JIONG , YAMASAKO JUNSUKE
Published: January 2023

A new species Clyzomedus pani sp. nov. is described from Beijing, Shaanxi, Henan and Anhui, China. Quercus acutissima Carruth (Fagaceae) is the possible host plant. Images of habitus, external morphology and genitalia are provided. It is one of the currently discovered new species from Capital of China, since for the Biodiversity Survey and Assessment Project of Beijing.
Pitfalls of Climate Network Construction—A Statistical Perspective
Authors: Haas Moritz , Goswami Bedartha , von Luxburg Ulrike
Published: January 2023

Network-based analyses of dynamical systems have become increasingly popular in climate science. Here, we address network construction from a statistical perspective and highlight the often-ignored fact that the calculated correlation values are only empirical estimates. To measure spurious behavior as deviation from a ground truth network, we simulate time-dependent isotropic random fields on the sphere and apply common network-construction techniques. We find several ways in which the uncertainty stemming from the estimation procedure has a major impact on network characteristics. When the data have a locally coherent correlation structure, spurious link bundle teleconnections and spurious high-degree clusters have to be expected. Anisotropic estimation variance can also induce severe biases into empirical networks. We validate our findings with ERA5 data. Moreover, we explain why commonly applied resampling procedures are inappropriate for significance evaluation and propose a statistically more meaningful ensemble construction framework. By communicating which difficulties arise in estimation from scarce data and by presenting which design decisions increase robustness, we hope to contribute to more reliable climate network construction in the future.

Significance Statement

Network-based approaches have gained renewed attention regarding the prediction of climate phenomena such as El Niño events, extreme regional precipitation patterns, anomalous polar vortex dynamics, and regarding understanding the Earth system. Even though climate networks are constructed from a limited amount of noisy data, they typically are not studied from a statistical perspective. However, such an approach is crucial: due to sampling uncertainty, climate networks unavoidably contain false and missing edges. We analyze how sampling artifacts impact the conclusions drawn from the networks and present both pitfalls and statistically robust procedures of network construction and evaluation. We aim to contribute to understanding the limitations and fully leveraging the potentials of network methods in climate and Earth system science.
Co-existing structures of feeling: Senses and imaginaries of industrial neighbourhoods
Authors: Vanke Alexandrina
Published: January 2023

This article explores how structures of feeling shape everyday life and local atmospheres in two industrial neighbourhoods located in the cities of Moscow and Yekaterinburg. Developing Raymond Williams’s concept of structure of feeling, I conceptualise it as an affective principle regulating sensual experiences, spatial imaginaries and practical activities of local communities within socio-material infrastructures. I argue that Soviet (socialist/industrial/residual) and post-Soviet (neoliberal/post-industrial/emergent) structures of feeling co-exist in senses, imaginaries and the landscapes of Russia’s deindustrialising urban areas. Working-class and long-standing middle-class residents show an affective attachment to place and tend to imagine their neighbourhoods with the help of an industrial structure of feeling comprising values of factory culture, communality and shared space, while an emergent structure of feeling is informed by values of neoliberal development, individual comfort and private space. Drawing on multi-sited ethnography in two locations, this article provides an empirically grounded theorisation of the concept of structure of feeling by bringing it in sociology of space and place and urban anthropology. It contributes to the debate about place attachment of deindustrialising communities and their vision of the past, present and future of their neighbourhoods by an extended understanding of structure of feeling not as a spirit of the time but as a multiple spirit of the time and place.