bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mandarin Chinese translation of the Artificial-Social-Agent questionnaire instrument for evaluating human-agent interaction
Authors: Li Fengxiang , Fitrianie Siska , Bruijnes Merijn , Abdulrahman Amal , Guo Fu , Brinkman Willem-Paul
Published: October 2023

The Artificial-Social-Agent (ASA) questionnaire is an instrument for evaluating human-ASA interaction. It consists of 19 constructs and related dimensions measured by either 24 questionnaire items (short version) or 90 questionnaire items (long version). The questionnaire was built and validated by a research community effort to make evaluation results more comparable between agents and findings more generalizable. The current questionnaire is in English, which limits its use to only a population with an adequate command of the English language. Translating the questionnaire into more languages allows for the inclusion of other populations and the possibility of comparing them. Therefore, this paper presents a Mandarin Chinese translation of the questionnaire. After three construction cycles that included forward and backward translation, we gave both the final version of the translated and original English questionnaire to 242 bilingual crowd-workers to evaluate 14 ASAs. Results show on average a good level of correlation on the construct/dimension level (ICC M = 0.79, SD = 0.09, range [0.61, 0.95]) and on the item level (ICC M = 0.62, SD = 0.14, range [0.19, 0.92]) between the two languages for the long version, and for the short version (ICC M = 0.66, SD = 0.12, range [0.41, 0.92]). The analysis also established correction values for converting questionnaire item scores between Chinese and English questionnaires. Moreover, we also found systematic differences in English questionnaire scores between the bilingual sample and a previously collected mixed-international English-speaking sample. We hope this and the Chinese questionnaire translation will motivate researchers to study human-ASA interaction among a Chinese literate population and to study cultural similarities and differences in this area.
Leveraging linear mapping for model-agnostic adversarial defense
Authors: Jamil Huma , Liu Yajing , Blanchard Nathaniel , Kirby Michael , Peterson Chris
Published: October 2023

In the ever-evolving landscape of deep learning, novel designs of neural network architectures have been thought to drive progress by enhancing embedded representations. However, recent findings reveal that the embedded representations of various state-of-the-art models are mappable to one another via a simple linear map, thus challenging the notion that architectural variations are meaningfully distinctive. While these linear maps have been established for traditional non-adversarial datasets, e.g., ImageNet, to our knowledge no work has explored the linear relation between adversarial image representations of these datasets generated by different CNNs. Accurately mapping adversarial images signals the feasibility of generalizing an adversarial defense optimized for a specific network. In this work, we demonstrate the existence of a linear mapping of adversarial inputs between different models that can be exploited to develop such model-agnostic, generalized adversarial defense. We further propose an experimental setup designed to underscore the concept of this model-agnostic defense. We train a linear classifier using both adversarial and non-adversarial embeddings within the defended space. Subsequently, we assess its performance using adversarial embeddings from other models that are mapped to this space. Our approach achieves an AUROC of up to 0.99 for both CIFAR-10 and ImageNet datasets.
Case Report: Multiple prolactinomas in a young man with Kallmann syndrome and familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia
Authors: Jensterle Mojca , Janež Andrej , Vipotnik Vesnaver Tina , Debeljak Maruša , Breznik Nika , Trebušak Podkrajšek Katarina , Herman Rok , Fliers Eric , Battelino Tadej , Avbelj Stefanija Magdalena
Published: October 2023

Introduction

The occurrence of prolactinomas in sex hormone treated patients with central hypogonadism is extremely rare.

Case presentation

We present a Caucasian male patient who was diagnosed with Kallmann syndrome (KS) at age 15 years. Testosterone treatment was started. At age 26 the patient presented with mild headache. MRI revealed two separate pituitary adenomas along with the absence of the olfactory bulbs. Given the presence of marked hyperprolactinemia (17x upper limit of the reference range) the diagnosis prolactinoma was made and treatment with cabergoline was started which resulted in a complete biochemical response and in marked reduction of both adenomas in size. Hypogonadism persisted and testosterone replacement therapy was continued. Genetic testing of genes associated with pituitary tumors, Kallmann syndrome and idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism was negative. Mild concomitant hypercalcemia in accordance with familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia (FHH) prompted mutation analysis of the calcium receptor (CASR) gene which yielded a pathogenic inactivating variant.

Discussion/conclusion

The presence of two separate prolactinomas in a patient with KS has not yet been reported in the literature. The effect of sex hormone treatment of KS patients on the possible development of prolactinoma is unknown at present. The occurance of multiple prolactinomas in our patient suggests increased susceptibility. Although CaSR is expressed in GnRH neurons in mouse brain and CaSR deficient mice have a reduced hypothalamic GnRH neuronal population, the relevance of the CASR gene variant in our patient for the KS phenotype is unclear at present.
The impact of ancient Mesoamerican cities on long-term environmental sustainability: the view from historical ecology
Authors: Antorcha-Pedemonte Ricardo , Rivera-Núñez Tlacaelel , Fargher-Navarro Lane F.
Published: October 2023

The impact of ancient urban occupations on sustainability has recently become a topic of interest for archaeologists as well as many other scholars. Much of this archaeological research has focused on documenting the longevity of ancient cities and elucidating the social and economic strategies employed at the urban and regional scales to promote urban sustainability. In this article, we add to this discussion by addressing the issue of sustainability by considering the impact of environmental legacies left by ancient cities after their abandonment. Using a series of cases from pre-Hispanic Mesoamerica [OMYK (Coba), Kiuic, Lagunas de Yalahau, and Tlaxcallan], we show through ethnoecological and historical ecological research that in some cases pre-Hispanic people, living in urban zones, affected “intermediate” disturbances that increased biodiversity, biomass, and sustainability by creating second natures that have endured for centuries.
Prevention of CMV/EBV reactivation by double-specific T cells in patients after allogeneic stem cell transplantation: results from the randomized phase I/IIa MULTIVIR-01 study
Authors: Gerbitz Armin , Gary Regina , Aigner Michael , Moosmann Andreas , Kremer Anita , Schmid Christoph , Hirschbuehl Klaus , Wagner Eva , Hauptrock Beate , Teschner Daniel , Roesler Wolf , Spriewald Bernd , Tischer Johanna , Moi Stephanie , Balzer Heidi , Schaffer Stefanie , Bausenwein Judith , Wagner Anja , Schmidt Franziska , Brestrich Jens , Ullrich Barbara , Maas Stefanie , Herold Susanne , Strobel Julian , Zimmermann Robert , Weisbach Volker , Hansmann Leo , Lammoglia-Cobo Fernanda , Remberger Mats , Stelljes Matthias , Ayuk Francis , Zeiser Robert , Mackensen Andreas
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Allogeneic stem cell transplantation is used to cure hematologic malignancies or deficiencies of the hematopoietic system. It is associated with severe immunodeficiency of the host early after transplant and therefore early reactivation of latent herpesviruses such as CMV and EBV within the first 100 days are frequent. Small studies and case series indicated that application of herpes virus specific T cells can control and prevent disease in this patient population.

Methods

We report the results of a randomized controlled multi centre phase I/IIa study (MULTIVIR-01) using a newly developed T cell product with specificity for CMV and EBV derived from the allogeneic stem cell grafts used for transplantation. The study aimed at prevention and preemptive treatment of both viruses in patients after allogeneic stem cell transplantation targeting first infusion on day +30. Primary endpoints were acute transfusion reaction and acute-graft versus-host-disease after infusion of activated T cells.

Results

Thirty-three patients were screened and 9 patients were treated with a total of 25 doses of the T cell product. We show that central manufacturing can be achieved successfully under study conditions and the product can be applied without major side effects. Overall survival, transplant related mortality, cumulative incidence of graft versus host disease and number of severe adverse events were not different between treatment and control groups. Expansion of CMV/EBV specific T cells was observed in a fraction of patients, but overall there was no difference in virus reactivation.

Discussion

Our study results indicate peptide stimulated epitope specific T cells derived from stem cell grafts can be administered safely for prevention and preemptive treatment of reactivation without evidence for induction of acute graft versus host disease.

Clinical trial registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov, identifier NCT02227641.
Effect of anti-SARS-CoV-2 BNT162b2 mRNA vaccination on thrombin generation in children with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Stercel Vivien , Lóczi Linda , Kadenczki Orsolya , Nemes Éva , Nagy Béla , Hodossy-Takács Rebeka , Szabó Attila Ádám , Fagyas Miklós , Kappelmayer János , Szabó Tamás , Bagoly Zsuzsa
Published: October 2023

Background

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) including Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), are associated with higher thrombotic risk and enhanced thrombin generation (TG) in adults. Despite encouraging data reporting vaccine safety and low IBD flare rates in adults with IBD, vaccine hesitancy was demonstrated to be high in families of children with IBD. We aimed to find out whether TG is increased in children with IBD as compared to healthy controls and whether TG parameters show significant changes following SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination.

Patients and methods

In this observational case-control study, 38 children with IBD (CD:18, UC: 20) aged 12-18 years and 62 healthy age-and sex-matched children were enrolled. Blood was collected before the first dose and 2-6 weeks after the second dose of BNT162b2 (Pfizer-BioNTech) mRNA vaccine dose. Blood cell counts, fibrinogen, inflammatory markers (hsCRP, ferritin), anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody levels were investigated, TG assay was carried-out using platelet-poor plasma. Detailed clinical parameters including disease activity scores (PUCAI, PCDAI) were registered pre-and post- vaccination. A guided questionnaire was used to collect data on adverse reactions (AEs) post- vaccination.

Results

Baseline TG parameters did not differ between patients and controls. Endogenous thrombin potential showed a significant positive correlation with markers of inflammation and with PCDAI. Inflammatory parameters and TG did not increase in patients and controls post-vaccination. Vaccination significantly increased antibody levels in all three investigated groups, but post-vaccination anti-SARS-CoV-2 S IgG/IgM levels were below the 5th percentile value of healthy children in more than one third of patients. Those receiving TNFα inhibitor therapy presented significantly lower SARS-CoV-2 S IgG/IgM levels as compared to patients on other immunosuppressive regimens. Systemic AEs did not differ between patients and controls while lower rate of local symptoms was found post-vaccination in children with IBD. Only 2 IBD flares were detected 2-6 weeks after the second dose of vaccination.

Conclusion

Our study is the first to support the safety and efficacy of anti-SARS-CoV-2 BNT162b2 vaccination in children with IBD with detailed pre-and post-vaccination laboratory data including TG. Results of this study may further increase confidence and reduce vaccine hesitancy in caretakers of pediatric IBD patients.
Study of the effect of Lactobacillus crispatus FSCDJY67L3 on Helicobacter Pylori eradication: a double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Hong Qing , Wang Jidong , Zhang Huayue , Liu Xiaoming , Liu Zhenmin
Published: October 2023

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a gram-negative bacterium exhibiting high pathogenicity. Traditional antibiotic treatments are considered ineffective as the H. pylori resistance has increased. Recently, a quadruple therapy strategy of probiotics and antibiotics to eliminate H. pylori was proposed. Probiotics play a therapeutic role as supplements in this process. The present research screened a probiotic strain (Lactobacillus crispatus FSCDJY67L3) that co-aggregates strongly with H. pylori. L. crispatus FSCDJY67L3 was demonstrated to significantly reduce H. pylori load (14C breath test) in clinical trials with H. pylori-positive patients. The Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS) score decreased, indicating improvement in the gastrointestinal discomfort of patients. Furthermore, L. crispatus FSCDJY67L3 showed no change in the structure of the intestinal flora of patients. Routine blood indices and blood biochemical indices related to liver and kidney function were also not affected in the patients. Therefore, L. crispatus FSCDJY67L3 may be used clinically as a supplement for the treatment of H. pylori.

Clinical Trial Registration

https://www.chictr.org.cn/, Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2100053710).
Optimization of plastic polymers for shellfish aquaculture infrastructures: in situ antifouling performance assessment
Authors: Freitas Vânia , Gonçalves Odete , Dolbeth Marina , Ramos Sandra , Morais João , Ozorio Rodrigo O. de A. , Martins Irene , Almeida Joana R.
Published: October 2023

Biofouling poses a significant challenge to bivalve aquaculture affecting both the target culture and/or the immersed infrastructure. In suspended bivalve cultures (e.g., oysters and scallops), biofouling accumulation leads to additional labor demands and increased costs for the maintenance of underwater structures. Given that the inherent properties of materials used in farming infrastructure influence the formation of fouling communities, evaluating how these materials perform under diverse environmental conditions can help the industry select the most effective materials for preventing or minimizing biofouling growth. This study evaluates the impact of aquaculture material and environmental conditions on biofouling, focusing on two commonly used plastic polymers in marine aquaculture: polyamide (PA) and high-density polyethylene (PE). Both untreated and color-additive treated polymers were tested for their response to fouling development. Performance was gauged by total fouling wet weight and the extent of fouling-induced mesh occlusion. Experimental panels were deployed for 4 months (from May to September 2021) in estuarine (oyster farm) and marine (port) environments on the northern coast of Portugal. The marine sites exhibited greater fouling species diversity, while higher biofouling loads were found in the subtidal estuarine area. Within 3 months, complete mesh occlusion occurred mainly due to colonial hydroids (Obelia dichotoma) in the subtidal site. In contrast, panels deployed in the intertidal estuarine area had lower fouling biomass and mesh occlusion. Notably, significant differences between polymer types and treatments were only evident in the estuarine intertidal area, with long air exposure during low tide. White panels outperformed orange ones in fouling biomass, and PA panels outperformed PE panels in mesh occlusion. These differences were attributed to the settlement and growth of the acorn barnacle Austrominius modestus, known to favor dark-colored and less hydrophilic surfaces. Considering that oyster production in intertidal areas is one of the most important aquaculture industries globally, these findings offer valuable insights into material selection and characteristics that can mitigate fouling loads and their associated impacts. These results could also be relevant for other forms of bivalve aquaculture where infrastructure-related biofouling presents a challenge.
Beneficial and biocontrol effects of Trichoderma atroviride, a dominant species in white birch rhizosphere soil
Authors: Liu Kuo , Zhang Yu-Zhou , Du Hua-Ying , Wang Zhi-Ying , Gu Pei-Wen , Liu Zhi-Hua , Yu Ze-Yang
Published: October 2023

White birch (Betula platyphylla Suk.) is a typical pioneer tree species that is important in forest restoration in northern China, Japan, and Korea. In the present study, 37 isolates were obtained from B. platyphylla rhizosphere soils in Heilongjiang Province; they were identified as T. pleuroticola (3 isolates), T. virens (2 isolates), T. hamatum (8 isolates), T. atroviride (21 isolates, dominant species) and T. asperelloides (3 isolates). Stress tolerance tests (salt, alkali, and nutritional stress that simulated saline alkali or barren soil) and confrontation assays (with four pathogens) were performed to determine which isolates had good biocontrol ability in barren soil; the results show that T. atroviride was outstanding. Then, in order to determine the effect of T. atroviride on plants and soil, Gynura cusimbua seeds were sown and treated with a T. atroviride spore suspension, as was unsown soil. The seedlings treated using T. atroviride had significantly greater height, stem diameter, soluble protein content, soluble sugar content, and malonaldehyde (MDA) content and their catalase (CAT) activity was also significantly increased. In addition, when the plants were inoculated with Alternaria alternata, the plants treated using T. atroviride had stronger CAT activity, significantly higher soluble protein content and soluble sugar content, and significantly lower MDA content, which indicates stronger resistance and less injury caused by the pathogen. In addition, T. atroviride not only increased the content of available nitrogen and available phosphorus in the soil, but also promoted G. cusimbua seedlings’ absorption of available nitrogen and available phosphorus. Thus, the characteristics of T. atroviride may make it the main factor that helps B. platyphylla colonise cut-over lands. T. atroviride, a promising biocontrol candidate, can be used in agriculture and forestry.
Insights into the influence of physicochemical parameters on the microbial community and volatile compounds during the ultra-long fermentation of compound-flavor Baijiu
Authors: Cheng Wei , Chen Xuefeng , Lan Wei , Liu Gengdian , Xue Xijia , Li Ruilong , Pan Tianquan , Li Na , Zhou Duan , Chen Xingjie
Published: October 2023

Introduction

While the variation in physicochemical parameters, microbial communities, metabolism, composition, and the proportion of volatile components in fermented grains (FG) affect final Baijiu quality, their complex interactions during the ultra-long fermentation of compound-flavor Baijiu (CFB) are still poorly understood.

Methods

In this study, amplicon sequencing was used to analyze the microbial community, and headspace solid-phase microextraction-gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC–MS) was used to analyze the volatile components in FG during ultra-long fermentation of CFB. The relationships between the dominant microbial communities, physicochemical parameters, and volatile components were analyzed using redundancy analysis and network analysis.

Results

During ultra-long fermentation, bacterial diversity was initially higher than during the mid and late stages. Fungal diversity in the mid stages was higher than that initially and later in the process. A total of 88 volatile components, including six alcohols, 43 esters, eight aldehydes and ketones, 13 acids, and 18 other compounds were detected in FG. Starch and reducing sugars in FG strongly affected the composition and function of bacterial and fungal communities. However, acidity had little effect on the composition and function of the bacterial flora. Lactobacillus, Bacillus, Weissella, and Pichia were the core microbial genera involved in metabolizing the volatile components of FG.

Discussion

We provide insights into the relationships and influences among the dominant microbial communities, physicochemical parameters, and volatile components during ultra-long fermentation of CFB. These insights help clarify the fermentation mechanisms of solid-state fermentation Baijiu (SFB) and control and improve the aroma quality of CFB.
Simulating ozone degradation of deoxynivalenol and its bio-safety assessment by mouse model
Authors: Sun Chao , Yang Fang , Xiao Jianhui , Zhou Wenwen , Li Jun , Gu Xiaolong
Published: October 2023

Deoxynivalenol (DON), a trichothecene mycotoxin, is one of the most prevalent mycotoxins globally, primarily produced by Fusarium species. DON exposure could cause a range of symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, gastroenteritis, growth retardation, immunosuppression, and intestinal flora disorders in both humans and animals. Recently, ozone degradation technology has been applied for DON control. However, the safety of the contaminated grain after degradation was often ignored. Therefore, the implementation technology for assessing the safety of DON-contaminated grain degradation is of great significance for food safety. In this study, based on previous degradation result of DON, we further studied and assessed the toxicity of corn contaminated with ozone-degrading DON by animal experiments in mice. We simulated feed made from corn contaminated with DON produced by inoculated Fusarium graminearum, which was treated with an ozone aqueous solution. DON treated by ozone could effectively increase the expression of total protein in mice and improve the immune system efficacy. Meanwhile, compared with DON directly-exposed mice, the corn with degrading DON could effectively maintain the level of liver and kidney immune function, and improved growth performance, enterohepatic circulation, and energy metabolism. Our study indicated that the toxicity of fed corn contaminated with degrading-DON decreased significantly after ozone degradation, resulting in a much lower toxicity compared to the DON group, or nontoxicity to some extent. Therefore, we hope that this mouse model could be used as a promising approach for assessing the risk of fungal toxins on metabolism, immunity, and intestinal health.
Application of intraoperative ultrasound in the resection of high-grade gliomas
Authors: Wei RenJie , Chen Hao , Cai YuXiang , Chen JingCao
Published: October 2023

The incidence of gliomas is approximately 3–5/100,000, with high-grade gliomas accounting for approximately 30–40% of these tumors. Surgery is a confirmed positive factor in prolonging the survival of these patients, and a larger resection range means a longer survival time. Therefore, surgery for high-grade glioma patients should aim to maximize the extent of resection while preserving neurological function to achieve a better quality of life. There is consensus regarding the need to lengthen progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) times. In glioma surgery, methods such as intraoperative computed tomography (ICT), intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging (IMRI), navigation, 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA), and intraoperative ultrasound (IOUS) are used to achieve an expanded resection during the surgical procedure. IOUS has been increasingly used in the surgery of high-grade gliomas and various tumors due to its convenient intraoperative use, its flexible repeatability, and the relatively low cost of operating room construction. With the continuous upgrading of ultrasound equipment, IOUS has been able to better assist surgeons in achieving an increased extent of resection. This review aims to summarize the application of ultrasound in the surgery of high-grade gliomas in the past decade, its improvement in patient prognosis, and its prospects.
Efficacy of cupping therapy on pain outcomes: an evidence-mapping study
Authors: Wang Liaoyao , Cai Ziling , Li Xuanlin , Zhu Aisong
Published: October 2023

Objective

Cupping therapy is an ancient technique of healing used to treat a variety of ailments. An evidence-mapping study was conducted to summarize the existing evidence of cupping therapy for pain-related outcomes and indicate the effect and the quality of evidence to provide a comprehensive view of what is known.

Methods

PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Web of Science were searched to collect the meta-analyses investigating the association between cupping therapy and pain-related outcomes. The methodological quality was assessed by using the AMSTAR 2 tool. Significant outcomes (p < 0.05) were assessed using the GRADE system. The summary of evidence is presented by bubble plots and human evidence mapping.

Results

Fourteen meta-analyses covering five distinct pain-related conditions were identified and assessed for methodological quality using the AMSTAR 2, which categorized the quality as critically low (36%), low (50.0%), moderate (7%), and high (7%). In accordance with the GRADE system, no high-quality evidence was found that demonstrates the efficacy of cupping therapy for pain-related outcomes. Specifically, for neck pain, there were two moderate-quality, four low-quality, and two very low-quality evidence, while only one very low-quality evidence supports its efficacy in treating herpes zoster and one low-quality evidence for chronic back pain. Additionally, for low back pain, there were two moderate-quality, one low-quality, and four very low-quality evidence, and for knee osteoarthritis, three moderate-quality evidence suggest that cupping therapy may alleviate pain score.

Conclusion

The available evidence of very low-to-moderate quality suggests that cupping therapy is effective in managing chronic pain, knee osteoarthritis, low back pain, neck pain, chronic back pain, and herpes zoster. Moreover, it represents a promising, safe, and effective non-pharmacological therapy that warrants wider application and promotion.

Systematic review registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021255879, identifier: CRD42021255879.
Neurofeedback strategies in binge-eating disorder as predictors of EEG-neurofeedback regulation success
Authors: Wimmer Jytte , Rösch Sarah Alica , Schmidt Ricarda , Hilbert Anja
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Treatment options such as neurofeedback (NF) that directly target the link between aberrant brain activity patterns and dysfunctional eating behaviors in binge-eating disorder (BED) are emerging. However, virtually nothing is known about mental strategies used to modulate food-specific brain activity and the associated brain-based or subjective success of specific strategies. This study firstly investigated the use of mental strategies in response to individually appetitive food cues in adults with BED and overweight or obesity based on a randomized-controlled trial providing electroencephalography (EEG)- or real-time functional near-infrared spectroscopy (rtfNIRS)-NF to BED.

Methods

Strategy reports written by participants were classified with qualitative content analysis. Additionally, the mental strategies employed by theN = 23 patients who received EEG-NF targeting the reduction of fronto-central high beta activity were analyzed quantitatively through their link with subjective and EEG-NF regulation success.

Results

The following eight categories, ordered by frequency in descending order, were found: “Behavior,” “Imagination,” “Emotion,” “Distraction,” “Thought,” “Concentration,” “Self-Talk” and “No Strategy.” Linear mixed models revealed “Imagination,” “Behavior,” and “Thought” strategies as positive predictors of EEG-NF regulation success (defined as high beta activity during regulation beneath the baseline), and “Concentration” as a negative predictor of subjective (i.e., self-reported) NF regulation success.

Discussion

In conclusion, our study offers a classification system that may be used in future studies assessing strategy use for regulating food-related responses in patients with BED and associated overweight/obesity, providing valuable information on potential benefits of specific strategies and transferability to situations outside the NF treatment.
Evaluation of testicular blood flow during testicular torsion surgery in children using the indocyanine green–guided near-infrared fluorescence imaging technique
Authors: Liu Xiaomeng , Xu Yi , Li Long , Bai Dongsheng
Published: October 2023

Objective

This study investigates the feasibility of the indocyanine green–guided near-infrared fluorescence (ICG-NIRF) imaging technique in evaluating testicular blood flow during testicular torsion (TT) surgery in pediatric cases.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the eight pediatric patients with TT who underwent surgery in our hospital between February and July 2023. The intraoperative two-step method of ICG-NIRF imaging and testicular incision was used to evaluate the testicular blood flow, followed by a selection of different surgical methods. The removed testes were pathologically examined after surgery, and all patients were followed up 1 month after surgery to evaluate testicular blood flow using gray-scale ultrasound and color Doppler flow imaging (CDFI).

Results

Eight pediatric TT patients aged 1–16 years, with a median age of 11.5 years, were enrolled. Time from the onset ranged from 4 to 72 h (mean 26.13 ± 25.09 h). A total of eight testes were twisted, including four on the left side and four on the right side. The twisting direction of the testes was clockwise in four cases and counterclockwise in four cases. The rotation of torsion was 180°–1,080° (mean 472.5° ± 396°). There was no statistically significant difference in the imaging time between the four patients with testicular blood vessel imaging on both the torsional and normal sides (P > 0.05). The postoperative recovery was uneventful, with no complications during the follow-up period of 1 month. The postoperative histopathological results of three patients who underwent orchiectomy showed extensive hemorrhage, degeneration, and necrosis of the testicular tissue. Among the five patients who underwent orchiopexy, a gray-scale ultrasound and CDFI examinations showed uniform internal echo of the testes and normal blood flow signals in four patients. One patient with no testicular blood vessel imaging on the torsional side showed uneven internal echo of the testis and no blood flow signals.

Conclusion

ICG-NIRF imaging is a feasible method to evaluate testicular blood flow during TT surgery. Testicular blood vessel imaging within 5 minutes after ICG injection might be the basis for testicular retention during TT surgery.
Cardiovascular risk of Janus kinase inhibitors compared with biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs in patients with rheumatoid arthritis without underlying cardiovascular diseases: a nationwide cohort study
Authors: Song Yun-Kyoung , Lee Gaeun , Hwang Jinseub , Kim Ji-Won , Kwon Jin-Won
Published: October 2023

Objectives: Despite the ethnic differences in cardiovascular (CV) risks and recent increase in the prescription of Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, limited evidence is available for their CV outcomes in Asian patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We aimed to compare the major adverse CV events (MACEs) of JAK inhibitors to those of biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) in Korean patients with RA without baseline CV disease (CVD).

Methods: In a nationwide retrospective cohort study, patients newly diagnosed with RA without a history of CVD between 2013 and 2018 were identified using the National Health Insurance Service database. The cohort was followed up until the end of 2019 for the development of MACEs. Hazard ratios (HRs) for MACEs such as myocardial infarction, stroke, coronary revascularization, or all-cause death, were estimated using Cox proportional hazard regression in a propensity score-matched cohort.

Results: In total, 4,230 matched patients with RA were included (846 JAK inhibitor users and 3,384 bDMARD users). The crude incidence rate (95% confidence intervals, CI) per 100 patient-years for MACEs was 0.83 (0.31–1.81) and 0.74 (0.53–1.02) in the JAK inhibitor and bDMARD groups, respectively. The risk of MACEs was not significantly different between JAK inhibitor and bDMARD users with an adjusted HR (95% CI) of 1.28 (0.53–3.11). There were no significant differences in the risk of MACEs between JAK inhibitors and bDMARDs in each subgroup according to the types of bDMARDs, age, sex, Charlson comorbidity index score, and comorbidities.

Conclusion: Compared to bDMARDs, JAK inhibitors were not associated with the occurrence of MACEs in Korean patients with RA without a history of CVD.
Implementing competing risks in discrete event simulation: the event-specific probabilities and distributions approach
Authors: Franchini Fanny , Fedyashov Victor , IJzerman Maarten J. , Degeling Koen
Published: October 2023

Background: Although several strategies for modelling competing events in discrete event simulation (DES) exist, a methodological gap for the event-specific probabilities and distributions (ESPD) approach when dealing with censored data remains. This study defines and illustrates the ESPD strategy for censored data.

Methods: The ESPD approach assumes that events are generated through a two-step process. First, the type of event is selected according to some (unknown) mixture proportions. Next, the times of occurrence of the events are sampled from a corresponding survival distribution. Both of these steps can be modelled based on covariates. Performance was evaluated through a simulation study, considering sample size and levels of censoring. Additionally, an oncology-related case study was conducted to assess the ability to produce realistic results, and to demonstrate its implementation using both frequentist and Bayesian frameworks in R.

Results: The simulation study showed good performance of the ESPD approach, with accuracy decreasing as sample sizes decreased and censoring levels increased. The average relative absolute error of the event probability (95%-confidence interval) ranged from 0.04 (0.00; 0.10) to 0.23 (0.01; 0.66) for 60% censoring and sample size 50, showing that increased censoring and decreased sample size resulted in lower accuracy. The approach yielded realistic results in the case study.

Discussion: The ESPD approach can be used to model competing events in DES based on censored data. Further research is warranted to compare the approach to other modelling approaches for DES, and to evaluate its usefulness in estimating cumulative event incidences in a broader context.
A changeable thermal conductivity and optoelectronic-mechanical wave behavior in a microelongated, non-locally rotating semiconductor media
Authors: Kamel Alwaleed , Alhejaili Weaam , Hassan Wafaa , El-Bary Alaa A. , Lotfy Khaled
Published: October 2023

In this study, we investigate the effect of a rotation field on a homogeneous photo-thermoelastic nonlocal material and how its thermal conductivity changes as a result of a linearly distributed thermal load. The thermal conductivity of an interior particle is supposed to increase linearly with temperature. Microelastic, non-local semiconductors are used to model the problem in accordance with optoelectronic procedures, as proposed by the thermoelasticity theory. The micropolar-photo-thermoelasticity theory takes into account the medium’s microelongation properties in accordance with the microelement transport processes. This mathematical model is solved in two dimensions (2D) using harmonic wave analysis. Dimensionless components of displacement, temperature, microelongation, carrier density, and stresses are generated when the non-local semiconductor surface is subjected to the right boundary conditions. For silicon (Si) material, the wave propagation impact of the main physical fields is examined and graphically shown for various values of variable thermal conductivity, thermal relaxation durations, nonlocality, and rotation parameters.
A novel combined technology for treating hypertrophic scars: adipose tissue extract combined with fractional CO2 laser
Authors: Cai Yuan , Tian Jiao , Li Jianyi , Liu Xing , Li Fang , Zhang Lanfang , Xiao Shune , Jia Changsha , Deng Chengliang
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Owing to the need for liposuction and its unsuitability for allogeneic transplantation, the clinical application of stromal vascular fraction gel (SVF-gel) combined with fractional CO2 laser for scar treatment is limited. Adipose tissue extract (ATE), rich in cytokines and growth factors, offers a more convenient option for clinical practice as it can be easily prepared using purely physical methods and has low immunogenicity. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of ATE combined with fractional CO2 laser in the treatment of hypertrophic scars.

Methods: ATE was prepared using discarded liposuction fluid from patients undergoing liposuction. A rabbit ear hypertrophic scar model was established and treated with ATE, fractional CO2 laser, or a combination. PBS was used as a control. The scar appearance and histological changes were observed. The immunohistochemistry method was used to evaluate the expression of α-SMA, while perilipin was detected using immunofluorescence. Additionally, the level of adipogenic signal C/EBPα and PPARγ mRNA was studied.

Results: Following treatment, the volume of hypertrophic scar decreased, resulting in a softer texture and thinner dermis. Additionally, there was a decrease in the infiltration of inflammatory cells, and the collagen arrangement became looser and more regular, and the expression of α-SMA also decreased, with the combination of ATE and fractional laser showing the most significant improvement. Moreover, the combination group was found to promote subcutaneous fat regeneration and increase the expression of adipogenic signals C/EBPα and PPARγ.

Conclusion: The combination of ATE and fractional CO2 laser treatment has been shown to inhibit the development of hypertrophic scars. This effect may be attributed to the enhancement of adipogenesis and decrease in collagen deposition.
Effects of topping and non-topping on growth-regulating hormones of flue-cured tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.)—a proteomic analysis
Authors: Gu Kaiyuan , Yang Li-E. , Ren Ke , Luo Xianxue , Qin Xiao , Op de Beeck Michiel , He Conglian , Jian Li , Chen Yi
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Until now, the mechanism underlying the impact of topping on hormone regulation in tobacco plants remains unclear, and most studies investigating the hormone signaling pathways in plants rely on genes or transcriptional pathways.

Methods

This study examines the regulatory mechanisms of hormones in the roots and leaves of tobacco plants with and without topping at the protein level.

Results

The results demonstrate that, compared with non-topped plants, topping leads to a decrease in the levels of IAA (auxin), ABA (abscisic acid), and GA (gibberellin) hormones in the leaves, whereas the content of the JA (jasmonic acid) hormone increases. Furthermore, in the roots, topping results in an increase in the levels of IAA, ABA, and JA hormones, along with a decrease in GA content. In the leaves, a total of 258 significantly different proteins were identified before and after topping, with 128 proteins upregulated and 130 proteins downregulated. In the roots, there were 439 proteins with significantly different quantities before and after topping, consisting of 211 upregulated proteins and 228 downregulated proteins. Notably, these proteins were closely associated with the metabolic and biosynthetic pathways of secondary metabolites, as indicated by functional categorization.

Conclusions

When integrating the hormone changes and the proteomics results, it is evident that topping leads to increased metabolic activity and enhanced hormone synthesis in the root system. This research provides a theoretical foundation for further investigations into the regulation and signaling mechanisms of hormones at the protein level before and after topping in plants.
The genus Arachis: an excellent resource for studies on differential gene expression for stress tolerance
Authors: Kumar Dilip , Kirti Pulugurtha Bharadwaja
Published: October 2023

Peanut Arachis hypogaea is a segmental allotetraploid in the section Arachis of the genus Arachis along with the Section Rhizomataceae. Section Arachis has several diploid species along with Arachis hypogaea and A. monticola. The section Rhizomataceae comprises polyploid species. Several species in the genus are highly tolerant to biotic and abiotic stresses and provide excellent sets of genotypes for studies on differential gene expression. Though there were several studies in this direction, more studies are needed to identify more and more gene combinations. Next generation RNA-seq based differential gene expression study is a powerful tool to identify the genes and regulatory pathways involved in stress tolerance. Transcriptomic and proteomic study of peanut plants under biotic stresses reveals a number of differentially expressed genes such as R genes (NBS-LRR, LRR-RLK, protein kinases, MAP kinases), pathogenesis related proteins (PR1, PR2, PR5, PR10) and defense related genes (defensin, F-box, glutathione S-transferase) that are the most consistently expressed genes throughout the studies reported so far. In most of the studies on biotic stress induction, the differentially expressed genes involved in the process with enriched pathways showed plant-pathogen interactions, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, defense and signal transduction. Differential gene expression studies in response to abiotic stresses, reported the most commonly expressed genes are transcription factors (MYB, WRKY, NAC, bZIP, bHLH, AP2/ERF), LEA proteins, chitinase, aquaporins, F-box, cytochrome p450 and ROS scavenging enzymes. These differentially expressed genes are in enriched pathways of transcription regulation, starch and sucrose metabolism, signal transduction and biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids. These identified differentially expressed genes provide a better understanding of the resistance/tolerance mechanism, and the genes for manipulating biotic and abiotic stress tolerance in peanut and other crop plants. There are a number of differentially expressed genes during biotic and abiotic stresses were successfully characterized in peanut or model plants (tobacco or Arabidopsis) by genetic manipulation to develop stress tolerance plants, which have been detailed out in this review and more concerted studies are needed to identify more and more gene/gene combinations.
The challenge of breeding for reduced off-flavor in faba bean ingredients
Authors: Lippolis Antonio , Roland Wibke S. U. , Bocova Ornela , Pouvreau Laurice , Trindade Luisa M.
Published: October 2023

The growing interest in plant protein sources, such as pulses, is driven by the necessity for sustainable food production and climate change mitigation strategies. Faba bean (Vicia faba L.) is a promising protein crop for temperate climates, owing to its remarkable yield potential (up to 8 tonnes ha−1 in favourable growing conditions) and high protein content (~29% dry matter basis). Nevertheless, the adoption of faba bean protein in plant-based products that aim to resemble animal-derived counterparts is hindered by its distinctive taste and aroma, regarded as “off-flavors”. In this review, we propose to introduce off-flavor as a trait in breeding programs by identifying molecules involved in sensory perception and defining key breeding targets. We discuss the role of lipid oxidation in producing volatile and non-volatile compounds responsible for the beany aroma and bitter taste, respectively. We further investigate the contribution of saponin, tannin, and other polyphenols to bitterness and astringency. To develop faba bean varieties with diminished off-flavors, we suggest targeting genes to reduce lipid oxidation, such as lipoxygenases (lox) and fatty acid desaturases (fad), and genes involved in phenylpropanoid and saponin biosynthesis, such as zero-tannin (zt), chalcone isomerase (chi), chalcone synthase (chs), β-amyrin (bas1). Additionally, we address potential challenges, including the need for high-throughput phenotyping and possible limitations that could arise during the genetic improvement process. The breeding approach can facilitate the use of faba bean protein in plant-based food such as meat and dairy analogues more extensively, fostering a transition toward more sustainable and climate-resilient diets.
Better than expected? Predictors of coping with expectation violations in the communication about death and dying
Authors: Bendel Yannik , Gesualdo Chrys , Pinquart Martin , von Blanckenburg Pia
Published: October 2023

Background

End-of-life (EOL) communication is often avoided, especially among young adults. Negative expectations concerning EOL conversations with relatives or significant others are one major reason.

Objective

To investigate how best to violate negative expectations concerning EOL conversations by identifying predictors of coping with expectation violations in this context.

Methods

Vignettes describing expectation violations in the context of EOL communication were presented to a sample of 261 university students. In a first experiment, the credibility of the expectation-disconfirming information was manipulated. In a second experiment, the valence of the disconfirming evidence was manipulated. As outcome measures, the subjective likelihood of two different responses to the expectation violation was assessed: (1) ignoring the disconfirming evidence (immunization) and (2) changing expectations (accommodation).

Results

Overall, participants experiencing a worse-than-expected event showed more immunization [F(1, 257) = 12.15, p < 0.001, ηp = 0.05], while participants experiencing a better-than-expected event showed more accommodation [F(1, 257) = 30.98, p < 0.001, ηp = 0.11]. Participants with higher fear of death [F(1, 257) = 12.24, p < 0.001, ηp = 0.05] as well as higher death avoidance tendencies [F(1, 257) = 17.16, p < 0.001, ηp = 0.06] showed less accommodation in response to a better-than-expected event.

Conclusion

In general, young adults appear to update their expectations quickly in response to unexpectedly positive experiences in the context of EOL communication. However, individuals with higher fear of death and higher death avoidance tendencies appear to be at higher risk of maintaining negative expectations despite disconfirming evidence.