bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Precision nephrotoxicity testing using 3D in vitro models
Authors: Yu Pengfei , Zhu Hainan , Bosholm Carol Christine , Beiner Daniella , Duan Zhongping , Shetty Avinash K. , Mou Steve S. , Kramer Philip Adam , Barroso Luis F. , Liu Hongbing , Cheng Kun , Ihnat Michael , Gorris Matthew A. , Aloi Joseph A. , Woldemichael Jobira A. , Bleyer Anthony , Zhang Yuanyuan
Published: December 2023

Nephrotoxicity is a significant concern during the development of new drugs or when assessing the safety of chemicals in consumer products. Traditional methods for testing nephrotoxicity involve animal models or 2D in vitro cell cultures, the latter of which lack the complexity and functionality of the human kidney. 3D in vitro models are created by culturing human primary kidney cells derived from urine in a 3D microenvironment that mimics the fluid shear stresses of the kidney. Thus, 3D in vitro models provide more accurate and reliable predictions of human nephrotoxicity compared to existing 2D models. In this review, we focus on precision nephrotoxicity testing using 3D in vitro models with human autologous urine-derived kidney cells as a promising approach for evaluating drug safety.
Increased rates of unattained developmental milestones among Israeli children between 2016 and 2020: a national report
Authors: Girshovitz Irena , Amit Guy , Goldshtein Inbal , Zimmerman Deena R. , Baruch Ravit , Akiva Pinchas , Avgil Tsadok Meytal , Sadaka Yair
Published: December 2023

Background

The early years of children’s lives are critical for their healthy development. Although children’s growth and development rates may vary, a significant delay during early childhood could indicate a medical or a developmental disorder. Developmental surveillance is used worldwide by healthcare providers in routine encounters, as well as by educators and parents, to elicit concerns about child development. In this work, we used a national dataset of developmental assessments to describe temporal trends of milestone attainment rates and associations between milestone attainment and various sociodemographic factors.

Methods

The study included 1,002,700 children ages birth until 6 years with 4,441,689 developmental visits between the years 2016 and 2020. We used the Israeli developmental scale to assess the annual rates of failure to attain language, social and motoric milestones by the entire population, as well as by subgroups stratified by sociodemographic factors. In addition, we evaluated the rates of parental concern for child development and of the nurse’s report of development inadequate for age. We used multivariable logistic regression to analyze the impact of different sociodemographic factors on the odds of failure to attain milestones, while controlling for confounding.

Results

Milestone failure rates progressively increased over the examined years in all developmental domains, and most prominently in the language domain. Conversely, the rates of parental concern for developmental delay remained constant. In multivariable analysis, higher risk of milestone attainment failure was observed in children whose mothers were divorced, unemployed, immigrant, had lower education, of Bedouin origin or were over 40 years old when giving birth.

Conclusions

This report describes national trends of child development in the gross motor, fine motor, language, and social domains. A periodic report of these trends should be published to objectively evaluate subgroups in need for intervention, and to assess the effectiveness of intervention programs in attempt to maximize the developmental potential of children in Israel.
RF fingerprint extraction and device recognition algorithm based on multi-scale fractal features and APWOA-LSSVM
Authors: Feng Wenjiang , Li Yuan , Wu Chongchong , Zhang Juntao
Published: December 2023

RF fingerprints can be used for device identification and network access authentication. An RF fingerprint extraction and device identification algorithm based on multi-scale fractal features and APWOA-LSSVM is proposed. First, a Hilbert transform is performed on the original RF signal, and differential operations are performed on the I/Q signal. Then, the variational modal decomposition is performed on the differentially processed I/Q signals separately to obtain a number of band-limited Intrinsic Modal Function (IMF) components. The fractal box dimension of each IMF component is calculated separately as the first-dimensional RF fingerprint. The multi-fractal spectrum of the original RF signal is further computed by Multi-fractal Detrended Fluctuation Analysis (MFDFA) as the second-dimensional RF fingerprint. The RF fingerprint feature vector consists of a combination of the first- and second-dimensional RF fingerprints and is used to train the LSSVM model. Since the penalty factor and kernel parameter width directly affect the recognition accuracy and generalization ability of the LSSVM model, APWOA is used to optimize the hyperparameters of the LSSVM model. Finally, the LSSVM model is constructed using the optimal hyperparameters and the performance of the model is verified on a test dataset. The experimental results show that the proposed model achieves an average recognition accuracy of 99.13$$\%$$
%
for 16 Bluetooth devices. Multi-scale fractal features consisting of fractal box dimensions and multiple fractal dimensions are more beneficial in the recognition of wireless devices as compared to single features. In addition, the proposed model possesses superior recognition capabilities when compared to classical machine learning algorithms.
Driving factors of tree biomass and soil carbon pool in xerophytic forests of northeastern Argentina
Authors: Sione Silvana María José , Wilson Marcelo Germán , Ledesma Silvia Gabriela , Gabioud Emmanuel Adrián , Oszust José Daniel , Rosenberger Leandro Javier
Published: December 2023

Background

The conversion of forests into agricultural lands can be a threat because the forests carbon stored could be a source of emissions. The capacity to improve the predictions on the consequences of land use change depends on the identification of factors that influence carbon pools. We investigated the key driving factors of tree biomass and soil carbon pools in xerophytic forests in northeastern Argentina. Based on analyses of forest structure variables and abiotic factors (topography and soil properties) from 18 mature forests, we evaluated carbon pools using uni- and multivariate (redundancy analysis) methods.

Results

The total carbon pool was estimated at 102.4 ± 24.0 Mg ha−1. Soil organic carbon storage is the single largest carbon pool relative to tree biomass, representing 73.1% of total carbon. Tree canopy cover and basal area were positively correlated with biomass carbon pool (r = 0.77 and r = 0.73, p < 0.001, respectively), proving to be significant drivers of carbon storage in this compartment. Slope, soil clay content and cation-exchange capacity had a better explanation for the variability in soil carbon pools, and all showed significant positive correlations with soil carbon pools (r = 0.64, 0.60 and 0.50; p < 0.05, respectively). The vertisols showed a 27.8% higher soil carbon stock than alfisols.

Conclusions

The relevance of our study stems from a dearth of information on carbon pools and their drivers in xerophytic forests, and in particular, the importance of this ecosystems’ type for Argentina, because they cover 81.9% of native forest area. Basal area and tree canopy cover exert a strong effect on the carbon pool in tree biomass but not in the soil. The results suggests that there is a potentially major SOC accumulation in forests located in slightly sloping areas and soils with higher topsoil clay content, such as vertisols. This could provide an important reference for implementing forestry carbon sink projects.
Personality traits empower entrepreneurial intention of generation Z in Sri Lanka
Authors: Weligodapola Mano , Weerarathna Ranitha Sachinthana , Hansini Kariyawasam Godage Kavindya , Ravini Pallimulle Hewa Geeganage Wathma , Sarathchandra Wijendra Gamladdalage Tharindu Priy , Samarathunga Samarathunga Muhandiramge Dona Pium
Published: December 2023

Entrepreneurship has a critical role in making society more creative and conscience. Entrepreneurial Intention (EI) guided and supported to build job creators, innovations, and entrepreneurial mindset to foster both men and women entrepreneurial spirit. Youth generation also plays a significant role in  economic growth of country. The research predominantly aimed to identify and measure the influence of personality traits on the EI of generation Z in Sri Lanka. The primary cause for concern is the rising demand for entrepreneurs who can spur economic growth by developing fresh concepts and turning them into successful ventures. The present study investigates the impact of the big five personality traits on EI. The study used both quantitative and qualitative approaches. In the qualitative survey, the data collected from eight semi-structured interviews were analyzed using the thematic analysis and NVivo tool. The quantitative survey used a cluster sample of generation Z in the Colombo district, Sri Lanka. A total of 384 valid questionnaires were received and examined. To test the hypotheses, the researchers used Smart PLS software (version 4.0) and the Structure Equation Model technique. The result showed that Conscientiousness, and Neuroticism significantly impact on the EI of generation Z. Further, Extraversion, Agreeableness and Openness to Experience have an insignificant impact on EI. The study gives policymakers and the government advice on how to understand the characteristics of generation Z, which are likely to become future entrepreneurs, and how to support new businesses by providing various incentives.
Gut microbiota intervention attenuates thermogenesis in broilers exposed to high temperature through modulation of the hypothalamic 5-HT pathway
Authors: Li Sheng , Li Xiaoqing , Wang Kai , Li Yansen , Nagaoka Kentaro , Li Chunmei
Published: December 2023

Background

Broilers have a robust metabolism and high body temperature, which make them less tolerant to high-temperature (HT) environments and more susceptible to challenges from elevated temperatures. Gut microbes, functioning as symbionts within the host, possess the capacity to significantly regulate the physiological functions and environmental adaptability of the host. This study aims to investigate the effects of gut microbial intervention on the body temperature and thermogenesis of broilers at different ambient temperatures, as well as the underlying mechanism involving the "gut-brain" axis.

Methods

Broilers were subjected to gut microbiota interference with or without antibiotics (control or ABX) starting at 1 day of age. At 21 day of age, they were divided into 4 groups and exposed to different environments for 7 d: The control and ABX groups at room temperature (RT, 24 ± 1 °C, 60% relative humidity (RH), 24 h/d) and the control-HT and ABX-HT groups at high temperature (HT, 32 ± 1 °C, 60% RH, 24 h/d).

Results 

The results demonstrated that the antibiotic-induced gut microbiota intervention increased body weight and improved feed conversion in broiler chickens (P < 0.05). Under HT conditions, the microbiota intervention reduced the rectal temperature of broiler chickens (P < 0.05), inhibited the expression of avUCP and thermogenesis-related genes in breast muscle and liver (P < 0.05), and thus decreased thermogenesis capacity. Furthermore, the gut microbiota intervention blunted the hypothalamic‒pituitary‒adrenal axis and hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid axis activation induced by HT conditions. By analyzing the cecal microbiota composition of control and ABX chickens maintained under HT conditions, we found that Alistipes was enriched in control chickens. In contrast, antibiotic-induced gut microbiota intervention resulted in a decrease in the relative abundance of Alistipes (P < 0.05). Moreover, this difference was accompanied by increased hypothalamic 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) content and TPH2 expression (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

These findings underscore the critical role of the gut microbiota in regulating broiler thermogenesis via the gut-brain axis and suggest that the hypothalamic 5-HT pathway may be a potential mechanism by which the gut microbiota affects thermoregulation in broilers.

Graphical Abstract
Unsupervised machine learning identifies distinct ALS molecular subtypes in post-mortem motor cortex and blood expression data
Authors: Marriott Heather , Kabiljo Renata , Hunt Guy P , Khleifat Ahmad Al , Jones Ashley , Troakes Claire ,   Project MinE ALS Sequencing Consortium,   TargetALS Sequencing Consortium, Pfaff Abigail L , Quinn John P , Koks Sulev , Dobson Richard J , Schwab Patrick , Al-Chalabi Ammar , Iacoangeli Alfredo
Published: December 2023

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) displays considerable clinical and genetic heterogeneity. Machine learning approaches have previously been utilised for patient stratification in ALS as they can disentangle complex disease landscapes. However, lack of independent validation in different populations and tissue samples have greatly limited their use in clinical and research settings. We overcame these issues by performing hierarchical clustering on the 5000 most variably expressed autosomal genes from motor cortex expression data of people with sporadic ALS from the KCL BrainBank (N = 112). Three molecular phenotypes linked to ALS pathogenesis were identified: synaptic and neuropeptide signalling, oxidative stress and apoptosis, and neuroinflammation. Cluster validation was achieved by applying linear discriminant analysis models to cases from TargetALS US motor cortex (N = 93), as well as Italian (N = 15) and Dutch (N = 397) blood expression datasets, for which there was a high assignment probability (80–90%) for each molecular subtype. The ALS and motor cortex specificity of the expression signatures were tested by mapping KCL BrainBank controls (N = 59), and occipital cortex (N = 45) and cerebellum (N = 123) samples from TargetALS to each cluster, before constructing case-control and motor cortex-region logistic regression classifiers. We found that the signatures were not only able to distinguish people with ALS from controls (AUC 0.88 ± 0.10), but also reflect the motor cortex-based disease process, as there was perfect discrimination between motor cortex and the other brain regions. Cell types known to be involved in the biological processes of each molecular phenotype were found in higher proportions, reinforcing their biological interpretation. Phenotype analysis revealed distinct cluster-related outcomes in both motor cortex datasets, relating to disease onset and progression-related measures. Our results support the hypothesis that different mechanisms underpin ALS pathogenesis in subgroups of patients and demonstrate potential for the development of personalised treatment approaches. Our method is available for the scientific and clinical community at https://alsgeclustering.er.kcl.ac.uk.
Transdiagnostic skills training group of dialectical behavior therapy: a long-term naturalistic study
Authors: Durpoix Amaury , Lachaux Enzo , Weiner Luisa , Weibel Sébastien
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) has assembled a large body of evidence for the treatment of emotional dysregulation in borderline personality disorder (BPD), but also in other disorders characterized by emotional dysregulation (e.g., bipolar disorder (BD) and ADHD). Standalone skills learning groups address the problem of limited resources in several clinical settings. Furthermore, transdiagnostic skills groups facilitate the recruitment and decrease the scattering of resources in psychiatric settings. However, few studies have focused on the pertinence of transdiagnostic standalone skills groups in naturalistic settings as well as their long-term outcomes. The goal of this study is to assess the impact of participation in a transdiagnostic DBT skills group one year after its completion.

Method

Transdiagnostic DBT skills training groups were provided for BPD, BD and ADHD patients in a University Psychiatric Department (Strasbourg, France), between 2019 and 2020. They consisted of 16 group sessions of 2.5 h and 3 individual sessions. At 1-year follow-up, ad-hoc questionnaires were proposed to all participants to assess the perceived impacts, the changes in symptomatology, and the maintenance of skills learned.

Result

22 of the 31 participants were interviewed at the one-year post-group session (64% BPD, 41% ADHD and 27% BD). 73% participants estimated that group impact was important or very important, 64% stated using the skills learned often or very often, mainly emotion regulation skills. An improvement in emotional instability, substance use, impulsivity and suicidal thoughts was reported by respectively 100%, 91%, 86% and 85% of participants. Quality of life improved according to 90% participants. All patients reported an improvement in suicidality during the post-group year, especially in suicide attempts. Psychotropic medication decreased in 59% of participants.

Discussion

Our one-year naturalistic study suggests that transdiagnostic DBT skills training groups are promising for the treatment of emotional dysregulation in people with BPD, BD and/or ADHD. The observational design and the lack of control group are the main limitations. Randomized controlled studies are required to confirm the long-term efficacy of transdiagnostic skills learning groups in naturalistic settings.
A service-categorized security scheme with physical unclonable functions for internet of vehicles
Authors: Halima Nadhir Ben , Alluhaidan Ala Saleh , Khan Mohammad Zunnun , Husain Mohd Shahid , Khan Mohammad Ayoub
Published: December 2023

In smart cities, communication and information exchange for the Internet of Vehicles rely on open and closed infrastructures along the roadside. Secure communications rely on the sender and receiver devices having self-sustaining authentication methods. The perquisites of the authentication methods are to grip communication without being falsified by an adversary or unidentified third parties. This article introduces the Service-Categorized Security Scheme (SCSS) with a physically unclonable function (PUF) for handling sensitive guidance/communication information. The vehicle-side authentication, access control, and service demands are governed using service-based PUF factors such as digital signatures, passwords, etc. To prevent anonymous third parties and adversaries, the PUF operates over compromised and uncompromised communication devices. Device-specific keys generated by PUFs based on intrinsic physical variances help identify between compromised and uncompromised devices, while keys generated by uncompromised devices conform to their expected profiles In the service-sharing process, mutual authentication using synchronized keys is used for security and service verification. The synchronized keys are integrated with the PUF for monitoring de-synchronization and individual operation. This decision is made using federated learning from the external service provider and the communicator of the vehicle. Through the learning process, a de-synchronization occurrence at the service provider and vehicle is identified as the reason for disconnecting the session. As a result, any suspicious activity that contradicts service security is identified, and the information of the communicating vehicle is secured. The proposed scheme is analyzed using the metrics authentication time, adversary detection ratio, complexity, de-synchronization time, and successful sessions.
Relativistic electron flux growth during storm and non-storm periods as observed by ARASE and GOES satellites
Authors: Belakhovsky Vladimir Borisovich , Pilipenko Vyacheslav A. , Antonova Elizaveta E. , Miyoshi Yoshizumi , Kasahara Yoshiya , Kasahara Satoshi , Higashio Nana , Shinohara Iku , Hori Tomoaki , Matsuda Shoya , Yokota Shoichiro , Takashima Takeshi , Takefumi Mitani , Keika Kunihiro , Nakamura Satoko
Published: December 2023

Variations of relativistic electron fluxes (E ≥ 1 MeV) and wave activity in the Earth magnetosphere are studied to determine the contribution of different acceleration mechanisms of the outer radiation belt electrons: ULF mechanism, VLF mechanism, and adiabatic acceleration. The electron fluxes were measured by Arase satellite and geostationary GOES satellites. The ULF power index is used to characterize the magnetospheric wave activity in the Pc5 range. To characterize the VLF wave activity in the magnetosphere, we use data from PWE instrument of Arase satellite. We consider some of the most powerful magnetic storms during the Arase era: May 27–29, 2017; September 7–10, 2017; and August 25–28, 2018. Also, non-storm intervals with a high solar wind speed before and after these storms for comparison are analyzed. Magnitudes of relativistic electron fluxes during these magnetic storms are found to be greater than that during non-storm intervals with high solar wind streams. During magnetic storms, the flux intensity maximum shifts to lower L-shells compared to intervals without magnetic storms. For the considered events, the substorm activity, as characterized by AE index, is found to be a necessary condition for the increase of relativistic electron fluxes, whereas a high solar wind speed alone is not sufficient for the relativistic electron growth. The enhancement of relativistic electron fluxes by 1.5–2 orders of magnitude is observed 1–3 days after the growth of the ULF index and VLF emission power. The growth of VLF and ULF wave powers coincides with the growth of substorm activity and occurs approximately at the same time. Both mechanisms operate at the first phase of electron acceleration. At the second phase of electron acceleration, the mechanism associated with the injection of electrons into the region of the magnetic field weakened by the ring current and their subsequent betatron acceleration during the magnetic field restoration can work effectively.

Graphical Abstract
Metabolic disturbances potentially attributable to clogging during continuous renal replacement therapy
Authors: Müller Mattia M. , Caspar Larina , Sazpinar Onur , Hofmaenner Daniel A. , Erlebach Rolf , Andermatt Rea , Ganter Christoph C. , Schuepbach Reto A. , Wendel-Garcia Pedro D. , David Sascha
Published: December 2023

Background

Clogging is characterized by a progressive impairment of transmembrane patency in renal replacement devices and occurs due to obstruction of pores by unknown molecules. If citrate-based anti-coagulation is used, clogging can manifest as a metabolic alkalosis accompanied by hypernatremia and hypercalcemia, primarily a consequence of Na3Citrate infusion. An increased incidence of clogging has been observed during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, precise factors contributing to the formation remain uncertain. This investigation aimed to analyze its incidence and assessed time-varying trajectories of associated factors in critically ill patients on continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT).

Methods

In this retrospective, single-center data analysis, we evaluated COVID-19 patients undergoing CRRT and admitted to critical care between March 2020 and December 2021. We assessed the proportional incidence of clogging surrogates in the overall population and subgroups based on the specific CRRT devices employed at our institution, including multiFiltrate (Fresenius Medical Care) and Prismaflex System (Baxter). Moderate and severe clogging were defined as Na > 145 or ≥ 150 mmol/l and HCO3− > 28.0 or ≥ 30 mmol/l, respectively, with a total albumin-corrected calcium > 2.54 mmol/l. A mixed effect model was introduced to investigate factors associated with development of clogging.

Results

Fifty-three patients with 240 CRRT runs were analyzed. Moderate and severe clogging occurred in 15% (8/53) and 19% (10/53) of patients, respectively. Twenty-seven percent (37/136) of CRRTs conducted with a multiFiltrate device met the criteria for clogging, whereas no clogging could be observed in patients dialyzed with the Prismaflex System. Occurrence of clogging was associated with elevated triglyceride plasma levels at filter start (p = 0.013), amount of enteral nutrition (p = 0.002) and an increasing white blood cell count over time (p = 0.002).

Conclusions

Clogging seems to be a frequently observed phenomenon in critically ill COVID-19 patients. The presence of hypertriglyceridemia, combined with systemic inflammation, may facilitate the development of an impermeable secondary membrane within filters, thereby contributing to compromised membrane patency.
Flavor improving effects of cysteine in xylose–glycine–fish waste protein hydrolysates (FPHs) Maillard reaction system
Authors: Ding Yicheng , Yan Chen , Dai Wangli , Wang Yanbo , Liu Shulai , Zheng Renchao , Zhou Xuxia
Published: December 2023

A promising way to utilize fish by-products is to develop hydrolysis of fish proteins with enzymes. The obtained fish protein hydrolysates (FPHs) are rich in peptides and amino acids, but bitterness and aroma defects impede further utilization of FPHs. The present study adopted Maillard reaction to improve FPHs’ flavor and illustrated the role of cysteine in this system. We investigated the impact of cysteine (0, 0.25%, 0.5%, 0.75%, and 1%) on the browning intensity, free amino acids (FAAs), molecular weight distribution, structure of MRPs, volatile compounds changes and organoleptic characteristics of xylose–glycine–FPHs Maillard reaction systems. Results showed that the addition of cysteine lowered the browning degree of Maillard reaction products (MRPs) by inhibiting the cross-linking of small peptides and reducing the production of melanin. GC–MS and GC–IMS analysis indicated that cysteine inhibited the formation of furans and nitrogen-containing compounds and facilitated the formation of sulfur-containing compounds contributing to the meaty flavor. Sensory analysis revealed that 0.25–0.75% range of cysteine increased the meaty, caramel, umami, mouthfulness and salty notes, and caused a decrease in bitter taste of the MRPs as confirmed by GC–MS. A highly significant correlation between the organoleptic characteristics and physicochemical indicators of MRPs was found by Mantel test. These results elucidated the influence of cysteine on the formation of Maillard reaction products and will help improve the flavor profile of meat flavorings.

Graphical Abstract
A Leader-follower formation control of mobile robots by position-based visual servo method using fisheye camera
Authors: Oh-hara Shinsuke , Fujimori Atsushi
Published: December 2023

This paper presents a leader-follower formation control of multiple mobile robots by position-based method using a fisheye camera. A fisheye camera has a wide field of view and recognizes a wide range of objects. In this paper, the fisheye camera is first modeled on spherical coordinates and then a position estimation technique is proposed by using an AR marker based on the spherical model. This paper furthermore presents a method for estimating the velocity of a leader robot based on a disturbance observer using the obtained position information. The proposed techniques are combined with a formation control based on the virtual structure. In this paper, the formation controller and velocity estimator can be designed independently, and the stability analysis of the total system is performed by using Lyapunov theorem. The effectiveness of the proposed method is demonstrated by simulation and experiments using two real mobile robots.
PRESERFLO MicroShunt implantation versus trabeculectomy for primary open-angle glaucoma: a two-year follow-up study
Authors: Gubser Pascal Aurel , Pfeiffer Valentin , Hug Simon , Shang Xiao , Lincke Joel-Benjamin , Häner Nathanael Urs , Zinkernagel Martin S. , Unterlauft Jan Darius
Published: December 2023

Background

To compare the intermediate-term efficacy of PRESERFLO (PF) MicroShunt implantation with trabeculectomy (TE) in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma, focusing on longitudinal changes of functional and structural parameters.

Methods

This retrospective comparative study included 104 eyes of 104 patients who underwent TE and 83 eyes of 83 patients that underwent PF implantation between January 2019 and December 2020, with a minimum follow-up of two years. Baseline and postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP), number of IOP-lowering medications, visual field mean defect (MD) and peripapillary retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) thickness measured using optical coherence tomography were assessed and compared between groups.

Results

Baseline characteristics (age, sex, IOP, number of IOP-lowering medications, MD, RNFL thickness) were comparable between the two groups (all P > 0.05). During the two-year of follow-up, mean IOP decreased from 24.09 ± 1.15 mmHg and 21.67 ± 0.77 mmHg to 11.37 ± 1.13 mmHg (P < 0.001) and 15.50 ± 1.54 mmHg (P = 0.028), and the mean number of IOP-lowering medications decreased from 3.25 ± 0.14 and 3.51 ± 0.14 to 0.53 ± 0.14 (P < 0.001) and 1.06 ± 0.43 (P < 0.001) in the TE and PF groups, respectively. MD remained stable [− 11.54 ± 0.93 dB and − 11.17 ± 1.66 to − 10.67 ± 0.91 dB (P = 0.226) and − 10.40 ± 4.75 dB (P = 0.628) in the TE and PF groups, respectively] but RNFL thickness decreased continuously during follow-up [62.79 ± 1.94 µm and 62.62 ± 2.05 µm to 57.41 ± 1.81 µm (P < 0.001) and 60.22 ± 1.98 µm (P = 0.182) in the TE and PF groups, respectively].

Conclusion

PF implantation is comparably effective in the intermediate term in lowering IOP and reducing the use of IOP-lowering medications over a two-year follow-up period. Although visual field defects were stable, RNFL continued to decrease during postoperative follow-up.
Fish oil users of Greece: reasons, appropriate use and perceived results regarding dietary supplement use
Authors: Soukiasian Panagiotis-David , Kyrana Zacharenia , Gerothanasi Konstantina , Kiranas Efstratios , Kokokiris Lambros E.
Published: December 2023

The aim of this cross-sectional study was to explore differences regarding the reasons, appropriate use, and perceived results relating to dietary supplement (DS) use between DS users who have used fish oils (FO) among other DS (DS + FO) and DS users who have used DS other than FO (DS − FO). Using a stratified random sampling technique, throughout 2018–2019, data was collected via in-person questionnaires. Having used any DS at least once, one was deemed a DS user, defined as “DS + FO” or “DS − FO” if FO were present or absent among the reported DS, respectively. The final sample consisted of 15,608 DS users. Independence between DS use status and categorical outcome variables was determined via Pearson’s chi-square test. Regarding DS users, 48.3 and 32.1% were medically supervised before and during DS use, respectively, with more DS + FO self-assessing themselves during, e.g., blood tests (21.6 vs. 17.1%). More DS + FO used DS systematically for > 1 month (42.9 vs. 30.8%) and selected more reasons for DS use (≥ 3; 47.6 vs. 25.4%). Most DS users experienced no negative outcomes from DS use (73.0%), but at least one positive outcome (95.8%), with DS + FO selecting a higher number of the latter (≥ 2; 55.7 vs. 38.0%). More DS + FO believed that a balanced diet (without DS) could not ensure their desired results (25.5 vs. 20.1%) but displayed a higher prevalence of recommended dietary allowance adherence (82.1 vs. 78.5%) and knowledge of the dangers of DS overuse (53.6 vs. 48.4%). Our study reveals significant differences between DS + FO and DS − FO with regard to their consumer stance and behavior towards DS.
Formal childcare services and fertility: the case of Italy
Authors: Scherer Stefani , Pavolini Emmanuele , Brini Elisa
Published: December 2023

This study aims at examining the fertility impact of early childhood education and care (ECEC) services for children under three in Italy. ECEC is a social investment-oriented family policy that might have more beneficial effects on fertility than passive support in terms of transfers. We first present a systematic review of studies regarding the impact of ECEC on fertility in high-income countries and then provide an empirical analysis for Italy, a country with lowest-low fertility rates and a welfare system that has traditionally provided limited support to families, especially through ECEC. We combine micro-level data from the Labour Force Survey for Italy from years 2003–2020 with information on regional indicators of public childcare and private childcare. The study employs within-region variation in ECEC over time to assess its effects on the transition to parenthood and parity progression for different groups of women and men. The present contribution indicates that both public and private childcare services have limited but positive short-term effects on fertility behaviour in Italy, contingent on specific socio-demographic groups. We discuss the possible reasons for the constrained effect of childcare on fertility and emphasise the necessity for more substantial and concerted interventions in Italy’s family policies if the aim is to invert demographic trends of lowest fertility and population-ageing.
Surgical accuracy of coronal and sagittal alignment in conventional closed-wedge high tibial osteotomy after computer-assisted surgery experience
Authors: Song Sang Jun , Bae Dae Kyung , Park Se Hwan , Park Cheol Hee
Published: December 2023

Background

Although intraoperative navigation can improve the surgeon’s proficiency, no studies have analyzed postoperative outcomes of high tibial osteotomy (HTO) after computer-assisted surgery (CAS) experience. The present study compared the clinical and radiographic results between conventional and CAS closed-wedge (CW) HTOs after CAS experience.

Methods

Each of the 50 conventional and CAS CW HTOs performed by single surgeon between 2015 and 2017 were included. The surgeon had experience of 140 cases of CAS CW HTOs before the study period. The groups were not different in terms of demographics. Clinically, the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and range of motion (ROM) were investigated. Radiographically, the mechanical axis (MA), change in posterior tibial slope angle (PTS), and parallel angle were evaluated. The proportions of inlier groups for the postoperative MA (within valgus 2° ± 3°), change in the PTS (within ± 3°), and parallel angle (< 3°) were compared.

Results

There were no significant differences in postoperative clinical results between the conventional and CAS groups. The MA was appropriately corrected in both groups (2.4° versus 2.9°, p = 0.317). The amount of change in PTS was significantly greater in the conventional group (−2.2° versus −0.8°, p = 0.018). The parallel angle was 5.3° in the conventional groups and 3.1° in the CAS group (p = 0.003). The proportion of inlier group was not significantly different in the postoperative MA (72% versus 78%) and change in the PTS (52% versus 66%). The proportion of inlier for the parallel angle was significantly lower in the conventional group (36% versus 60%, p = 0.027).

Conclusions

The surgical proficiency after CAS experience could cover the advantages of an intraoperative navigation in coronal adjustment, not in the sagittal adjustments in CW HTOs. A larger cohort with multiple surgeons in multiple centers would be required to identify the general trend.

Study design

Level of evidence III.
Deep tissue super-resolution imaging with adaptive optical two-photon multifocal structured illumination microscopy
Authors: Zhang Chenshuang , Yu Bin , Lin Fangrui , Samanta Soham , Yu Huanhuan , Zhang Wei , Jing Yingying , Shang Chunfeng , Lin Danying , Si Ke , Gong Wei , Qu Junle
Published: December 2023

Visualization of axons and dendritic spines is crucial in neuroscience research. However, traditional microscopy is limited by diffraction-limited resolution and shallow imaging depth, making it difficult to study neuronal dynamics. Two-photon multifocal structured illumination microscopy (2P-MSIM) provides super-resolution imaging along with a reasonably good penetration, but it is vulnerable to optical aberrations in deep tissues. Herein we present a novel non-inertial scanning 2P-MSIM system incorporated with adaptive optics (AO) which allows for super-resolution imaging with effective aberration correction. Our strategy is designed to correct both laser and fluorescence paths simultaneously using a spatial light modulator and a deformable mirror respectively, providing better results than the individual path corrections. The successful implementation of adaptive optical two-photon multifocal structured illumination microscopy (AO 2P-MSIM) has allowed for the super-resolution imaging of neuronal structures in a mouse brain slice at great depths and dynamic morphological characteristics of zebrafish motoneurons in vivo.
Modeling and numerical simulation of a type of pure-viscoacoustic-wave equation in attenuated transversely isotropic media
Authors: Huang Rong , Wang Zhiliang , Song Guojie , Wang Dan , Zhang Xinmin , Min Fan
Published: December 2023

The anisotropy and attenuation features of subsurface media significantly affect seismic data processing. Ignoring anisotropy and attenuation in seismic wave propagation may result in inaccurate reflector positions, dimming amplitudes, and reduced spatial resolution in the imaging results. Therefore, accurate seismic wave modeling of anisotropy and attenuation is essential for understanding wave propagation in the earth’s interior. This paper derives three pure-viscoacoustic-wave equations from characterizing the earth’s frequency-independent Q behavior in transversely isotropic (TI) media. First, we develop three time-space domain pure-qP-wave equations in TI media based on different approximation methods, whose coefficients can be determined by different approximation methods and Thomsen’s anisotropic parameters [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]. Subsequently, we introduce the Kelvin-Voigt attenuation model into our derived three time-space domain pure-qP-wave equations and then obtain three pure-viscoacoustic-wave equations. To further demonstrate the effectiveness and accuracy of our methods, we provide some 2D and 3D numerical tests. The numerical results indicate that the wavefield generated by pure-qP-wave equations and pure-viscoacoustic-wave equations have accurate kinematic characteristics of qP-wave in TI media and attenuated TI media and are free of S-wave artifacts while remaining stable under Thomsen’s anisotropic parameters [Formula: see text], so our methods have broader applicability compared with some existing methods. At the same time, the simulation results of pure-viscoacoustic-wave equations also reflect the absorption and attenuation characteristics of qP-waves in attenuated TI media.
Generating 3D lithology probability volumes using poststack inversion, probabilistic neural networks, and Bayesian classification — A case study from the mixed carbonate and siliciclastic deposits of the Cisco Group of the Eastern Shelf of the Permian Basin, north-central Texas
Authors: Karakaya Sarp , Ogiesoba Osareni C. , Olariu Cornel , Bhattacharya Shuvajit
Published: December 2023

The deposition and mixing of carbonates and siliciclastics in the Cisco Group of the Eastern Shelf of the Permian Basin are complicated by the temporal overlap between icehouse eustatic sea-level oscillations and fluctuations in sediment influx due to the rejuvenation of the Ouachita fold belt. Previous investigators have used well-log correlation as the primary tool in their interpretations of the area’s reciprocal depositional model, but well-log correlation alone cannot explain the full range of spatial lithology variations in the system. To better understand the lithology variation in the area, we use an integrated technique that combines wireline log information from 17 wells with 625 km2 3D seismic data through poststack seismic inversion, probabilistic neural networks (PNNs), and Bayesian classification. We use deterministic matrix inversion to derive lithology classes from well logs. Crossplot analyses reveal that the acoustic impedance and neutron porosity log pair can be used to differentiate lithologies. We perform model-based poststack inversion to generate a P-impedance volume and use PNNs to generate a neutron porosity volume. We combine these volumes through supervised Bayesian classification to generate lithology probability volumes for each lithology and a most probable lithology volume throughout the seismic data. The lithology volumes highlight the dominant lithologies (carbonate, shale, sand, and mixed) that allowed the interpretation of major carbonate platforms, sand-to-shale ratio variations, carbonate buildups between wells, and channel fill lithologies. Our semiautomated lithology detection workflow applies to regional studies and is also valid for reservoir-scale studies to determine variations in lithologies.
Long-Term Results of the Dasatinib-Blinatumomab Protocol for Adult Philadelphia-Positive ALL
Authors: Foà Robin , Bassan Renato , Elia Loredana , Piciocchi Alfonso , Soddu Stefano , Messina Monica , Ferrara Felicetto , Lunghi Monia , Mulè Antonino , Bonifacio Massimiliano , Fracchiolla Nicola , Salutari Prassede , Fazi Paola , Guarini Anna , Rambaldi Alessandro , Chiaretti Sabina
Published: December 2023

Clinical trials frequently include multiple end points that mature at different times. The initial report, typically based on the primary end point, may be published when key planned coprimary or secondary analyses are not yet available. Clinical trial updates provide an opportunity to disseminate additional results from studies, published in JCO or elsewhere, for which the primary end point has already been reported.

We report the long-term results of the frontline trial with dasatinib and blinatumomab in induction/consolidation (GIMEMA LAL2116, D-ALBA) for adult Philadelphia-positive ALL (Ph+ ALL), which enrolled 63 patients of all ages. At a median follow-up of 53 months, disease-free survival, overall survival, and event-free survival are 75.8%, 80.7%, and 74.6%, respectively. No events have occurred among early molecular responders. A significantly worse outcome was recorded for IKZF1 plus patients. Twenty-nine patients—93.1% being in molecular response (ie, complete molecular response or positive nonquantifiable) after dasatinib/blinatumomab—never received chemotherapy/transplant and continued with a tyrosine kinase inhibitor only; 28 patients remain in long-term complete hematologic response (CHR). An allogeneic transplant was carried out in first CHR mainly in patients with persistent minimal residual disease; 83.3% of patients are in continuous CHR. The transplant-related mortality was 12.5% for patients transplanted in first CHR and 13.7% overall. Nine relapses and six deaths have occurred. ABL1 mutations were found in seven cases. The final analysis of the D-ALBA study shows that a chemotherapy-free induction/consolidation regimen on the basis of a targeted strategy (dasatinib) and immunotherapy (blinatumomab) is effective in inducing durable long-term hematologic and molecular responses in adult Ph+ ALL, paving the way for a new era in the management of these patients.
Early-Pregnancy Serum Maternal and Placenta-Derived Exosomes miRNAs Vary Based on Pancreatic β-Cell Function in GDM
Authors: Razo-Azamar Melissa , Nambo-Venegas Rafael , Quevedo Iván Rafael , Juárez-Luna Gregorio , Salomon Carlos , Guevara-Cruz Martha , Palacios-González Berenice
Published: December 2023

Context

Pancreatic β-cell function impairment is a key mechanism for developing gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Maternal and placental exosomes regulate maternal and placental responses during hyperglycemia. Studies have associated exosomal micro-RNAs (miRNAs) with GDM development. To date, no studies have been reported that evaluate the profile of miRNAs present in maternal and placental exosomes in the early stages of gestation from pregnancies that develop GDM.

Objective

We assessed whether early-pregnancy serum maternal and placenta-derived exosomes miRNA profiles vary according to pancreatic β-cell function in women who will develop GDM.

Methods

A prospective nested case–control study was used to identify exosomal miRNAs that vary in early-pregnancy stages (<18 weeks of gestation) from women with normoglycemia and those who developed GDM based on their pancreatic β-cell function using the homeostasis model assessment of pancreatic β-cell function (HOMA-%β) index. Early-pregnancy serum maternal and placenta-derived exosomes were isolated to obtain miRNA profiles. Potential target and pathway analyses were performed to identify molecular and metabolic pathways associated with the exosomal miRNAs identified.

Results

In early-pregnancy stages, serum maternal exosome size and concentration are modified in GDM group and fluctuate according to HOMA-%β index. Serum maternal exosomal hsa-miR-149-3p and hsa-miR-455-3p in GDM are related to insulin secretion and signaling, lipolysis, and adipocytokine signaling. Early-pregnancy serum placenta-derived exosomes hsa-miR-3665 and hsa-miR-6727-5p in GDM are related to regulating genes involved in response to immunological tolerance of pregnancy and pathways associated with placental dysfunction.

Conclusion

Early serum exosomal miRNAs differ depending on their origin (maternal or placental) and pancreatic β-cell function. This research provides insights into the interactions between maternal and placental exosomal miRNAs and may have implications for identifying potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets for GDM.
Incidence and Risk Factors for Adrenal Crisis in Pediatric-onset Adrenal Insufficiency: A Prospective Study
Authors: Hosokawa Mayumi , Ichihashi Yosuke , Sato Yasunori , Shibata Nao , Nagasaki Keisuke , Ikegawa Kento , Hasegawa Yukihiro , Hamajima Takashi , Nagamatsu Fusa , Suzuki Shigeru , Numakura Chikahiko , Amano Naoko , Sasaki Goro , Nagahara Keiko , Soneda Shun , Ariyasu Daisuke , Maeda Miwako , Kamasaki Hotaka , Aso Keiko , Hasegawa Tomonobu , Ishii Tomohiro
Published: December 2023

Context

Adrenal crisis (AC) is a life-threatening complication that occurs during follow-up of patients with adrenal insufficiency (AI). No prospective study has thoroughly investigated AC in children with primary and secondary AI.

Objective

This work aimed to determine the incidence and risk factors for AC in patients with pediatric-onset AI.

Methods

This multicenter, prospective cohort study conducted in Japan enrolled patients diagnosed with AI at age ≤15 years. The incidence of AC was calculated as events per person-year (PY), and risk factors for AC were assessed using Poisson regression multivariable analysis.

Results

The study population comprised 349 patients (164 male, 185 female) with a total follow-up of 961 PY. The median age at enrollment was 14.3 years (interquartile range [IQR] 8.5-21.2 years), and the median follow-up was 2.8 years (IQR 2.2-3.3 years). Of these patients, 213 (61%) had primary AI and 136 (39%) had secondary AI. Forty-one AC events occurred in 31 patients during the study period. The calculated incidence of AC was 4.27 per 100 PY (95% CI, 3.15-5.75). Poisson regression analysis identified younger age at enrollment (relative risk [RR] 0.93; 95% CI, 0.89-0.97) and increased number of infections (RR 1.17; 95% CI, 1.07-1.27) as significant risk factors. Female sex (RR 0.99; 95% CI, 0.53-1.86), primary AI (RR 0.65; 95% CI, 0.30-1.41), or equivalent dosage of hydrocortisone per square meter of body area (RR 1.02; 95% CI, 0.96-1.08) was not a significant risk factor.

Conclusion

A substantial proportion of patients with pediatric-onset AI experience AC. Younger age and an increased number of infections are independent risk factors for developing AC in these patients.