bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy on Thrombin Generation and Platelet Aggregation in Patients with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Bentsen Kristian Kirkelund , Hojbjerg Johanne Andersen , Vinholt Pernille Just , Hansen Olfred , Hvas Anne-Mette , Jeppesen Stefan Starup
Published: November 2023

Patients with localized non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) considered unfit for surgery are at substantially increased risk of venous thromboembolism. Radiotherapy may further increase this risk. We aim to investigate the impact of stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) on thrombin generation and platelet aggregation. We included 110 patients with localized NSCLC treated with SBRT. Blood samples were obtained prior to SBRT, immediately after SBRT completion, and 4-6 weeks following SBRT. Ex vivo and in vivo thrombin generations were analyzed using a calibrated automated thrombogram and commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Platelet aggregation was evaluated using multiple electrode aggregometry. No significant differences were found in ex vivo or in vivo thrombin generation between blood samples before and immediately after SBRT treatment. Platelet aggregation was lower immediately after SBRT than before SBRT (TRAP: P = 0.04 and ASPI: P = 0.02) but remained within the reference interval. SBRT did not affect in vivo and ex vivo thrombin generation or platelet aggregation. SBRT did not cause prothrombotic changes in the coagulation in this study population of SBRT-treated patients with localized NSCLC.
Workplace Health Promotion Programs Targeting Smoking, Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity in Men: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Bezzina Aaron , Clarke Erin D. , Ashton Lee , Watson Trent , James Carole L.
Published: November 2023

The workplace has been highlighted as a potential setting to deliver health promotion programs to target modifiable health behaviors that contribute to chronic disease. This review evaluated the effectiveness of interventions implemented within the workplace that targeted either smoking, nutrition, alcohol, physical activity, and/or overweight and obesity in men. A review protocol was prospectively registered through PROSPERO (CRD42021293398). Five electronic bibliographic databases were searched for randomized controlled trials conducted in the workplace assessing chronic disease risk factors in men from January 2010 to August 2021. Eleven studies were included, reporting on overweight and obesity n = 8, physical activity n = 7, nutrition n = 4, alcohol n = 3, smoking n = 3, with eight studies assessing multiple outcomes. Results were mixed. Narrative synthesis highlighted studies reporting improvements to snacking frequency, sugar sweetened beverage consumption, and physical activity (METs and Vo2 max). Meta-analysis highlighted pooled mean decrease in body weight of −0.28 kg up to 3 months; −1.38 kg for >3 months, and pooled mean decrease in body mass index 0.06 kg/m2 up to 3 months; −0.27 kg/m2 for >3 months. Despite the encouraging direction of the relationship, results were not statistically significant ( p > .05). Findings underscore the potential of workplace health promotion programs targeting certain chronic disease risk factors in men; however, future research should consider long-term study designs to assess the efficacy of workplace health programs as a solution to the growing burden of global disease.
Organizational learning: Understanding cognitive barriers and what organizations can do about them
Authors: Balarezo Jose D , Foss Nicolai J , Nielsen Bo Bernhard
Published: November 2023

Much progress has been made with respect to improving our understanding of organizational learning. However, important gaps remain with respect to understanding barriers to learning flows that are rooted in bounded rationality and how such barriers can be reduced. We show how manifestations of bounded rationality in the form of framing effects and cognitive biases can act as barriers to learning at the individual, group, and organizational levels. We theorize that organizations can cope with these barriers to learning by deploying managerial practices that function as organizational repairs. More specifically, we add 3Is to the 4I framework by showing how intervening, inducing, and inquiring practices can attenuate these cognitive barriers to organizational learning. The three kinds of organizational repairs differ in terms of how directly they engage with the learning behaviors of organizational members. They range from direct managerial interventions (intervening) to incentivizing or nudging organizational members to engage in learning behaviors (inducing) to building a culture of reflexivity (inquiring). Throughout the paper we critically reflect on the explicit and implicit assumptions in the 4I framework as well as our extension of it.
Walking the tightrope of academic and practitioner expectations in field research
Authors: Harvey William S , Spee Andreas Paul
Published: November 2023

Field research is an important site for engagement between academics and practitioners, and a stepping stone for collecting data, publishing outputs, and fostering impact. Despite a long-standing recognition that academic research should be relevant for practitioners, academic–practitioner relationships have been stymied through stereotypes around the binary expectations of both groups. Drawing on rich illustrations from a global research project, we show some of the challenges that can characterize field research. We illustrate how academic and practitioner tensions can become salient at different stages and impact on the trajectory of a research project. We argue for a dynamic rather than a binary perspective to manage academic–practitioner relationships. This highlights how tensions emerge between academics and practitioners, and offers lessons and reflections on how they can be overcome to achieve mutual positive outcomes.
Body weight representation in children's picturebooks
Authors: Faragó Flóra , Savoy Sarah , Xu Tingting , He Yuan
Published: November 2023

The current study analyzed body-weight representation of characters in 50 children's picturebooks about body image. A repeated-measures ANOVA confirmed that average-weight characters were depicted significantly more often than thin and fat characters, both of which were depicted equally as often. There were four times as many average-weight characters as fat characters and nearly 11 times as many average-weight characters as thin characters in the picturebooks. Average-weight and fat characters were depicted significantly more often with positive traits compared to negative traits. Average-weight characters were depicted engaging with food and exercise more often than fat and thin characters. White children and girls were predominantly portrayed in the picturebooks. There appears to be a lack of diverse body-weight representation in the picturebooks analyzed, which leaves room for diversifying the representation of children of varied body weights across children's picturebooks.
Effect of High-Dose Drug-Coated Balloon Repetition After Drug-Coated Balloon Failure
Authors: Tomoi Yusuke , Takahara Mitsuyoshi , Soga Yoshimitsu , Hirano Taichi , Tsunoda Kazuki , Katsuki Tomonori , Ando Kenji
Published: November 2023

Purpose:

Although the optimal treatment for femoropopliteal (FP) drug-coated balloon (DCB) restenosis lesions remains debatable, the effectiveness of DCB repetition for DCB restenosis has been reported. However, the optimal DCB repetition strategy is not yet established. Thus, this study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes of high-dose DCB repetition with those of low-dose DCB repetition for FP DCB restenosis lesions.

Materials and Methods:

This single-center, observational study used a clinical database of 677 consecutive patients undergoing FP endovascular intervention for symptomatic peripheral artery disease between December 2018 and December 2021. Of these patients, 89 cases treated with DCB repetition for FP DCB restenosis lesions were analyzed. The primary endpoint was recurrent restenosis (re-restenosis) and the secondary endpoints were recurrent target-lesion revascularization (TLR), re-occlusion, and major adverse limb events (MALE) obtained using propensity score matching. Interaction analysis was also performed to explore the effects of the baseline characteristics on the association between high- and low-dose DCB with restenosis risk.

Results:

After propensity score matching, high-dose DCB demonstrated a significantly higher freedom from re-restenosis compared with low-dose DCB repetition at 1 year (90.4% vs 40.9%, p=0.034). In addition, freedom from re-TLR and MALE at 1 year was significantly higher in the high-dose DCB group (95.0% vs 53.3%, p=0.025; 95.0% vs 54.7%, p=0.025, respectively). Conversely, freedom rates from re-occlusion were not significantly different between the 2 groups (100.0% vs 84.0%, p=0.99). No baseline characteristics or perioperative outcomes had any significant interaction effect on the association of high-dose DCB versus low-dose DCB with restenosis risk.

Conclusion:

For FP DCB restenosis lesions, high-dose DCB repetition offered more favorable outcomes than low-dose DCB repetition.

Clinical Impact

This study revealed that for femoropopliteal drug-coated balloon (DCB) restenosis lesions, high-dose DCB repetition obtained more favorable outcomes than low-dose DCB repetition. In addition, there was no significant interaction effect on the association of high- versus low-dose DCB with re-restenosis risk for the baseline characteristics and perioperative outcomes. This finding might be also a reason for choosing high-dose DCB repetition for FP DCB restenosis lesions in daily clinical practice.
Techniques and Limitations of Gore Thoracoabdominal Multibranch Endoprosthesis (TAMBE) for Type 1A Endoleak After Failed Endovascular Aortic Repairs
Authors: Han Sukgu M. , DiBartolomeo Alexander D. , Chavez Marin , Meltzer Andrew J.
Published: November 2023

Purpose:

Endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR) is the dominant treatment modality over open repair for abdominal aortic aneurysms. However, a higher rate of reinterventions remains the Achilles heel of EVAR. Although type 1A endoleak from proximal seal zone failure of EVAR remains one of the leading causes for reintervention, fenestrated branched devices suitable for proximal extension of failed EVAR are not widely available in the United States. Gore Thoracoabdominal Multibranch Endoprosthesis (TAMBE) is an off-the-shelf investigational device that provides supraceliac seal by incorporating 4 visceral and renal arteries via preloaded inner branches.

Case Report:

In this article, we describe 2 cases of type 1A endoleak from previous EVAR devices repaired using TAMBE. Both cases were performed under the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) compassionate use exemption. Considerations on the case planning and implantation techniques of TAMBE specific to previous EVAR devices are reviewed.

Conclusions:

Gore TAMBE can be utilized to repair a type 1A endoleak of a previous infrarenal EVAR device. Greater supraceliac coverage necessary for TAMBE relative to the minimal seal zone should be considered when applying this device for a type 1A endoleak.

Clinical Impact

This report demonstrates the feasibility of applying off-the-shelf TAMBE device to treat one of the most common failure modes of EVAR, type1A endoleak.
Beyond visual range air combat simulations: validation methods and analysis using agent-based models
Authors: Kuroswiski André Rossi , Medeiros Felipe Leonardo Lôbo , De Marchi Monica Maria , Passaro Angelo
Published: November 2023

Computer simulations have revolutionized the analysis of military scenarios. As computing power has advanced, simulations can now incorporate intricate tactical-level engagements. However, accurately representing actors’ decisions at this level poses new challenges for developing and validating these simulations. In this context, this paper presents the methodologies and lessons learned from a study conducted to assess the application of agent-based modeling and simulation (ABMS) in analyzing beyond visual range (BVR) air combat scenarios, focusing on the influence of agent behavior on the outcomes. The proposed approach integrates real pilots into a face validation phase to examine symmetric and asymmetric engagements. The results underscore the significance of agent behaviors for the outcomes, for example, showing how specific behaviors are capable of mitigating the advantages of superior weaponry. Furthermore, the research explores the dynamics of aircraft acting in pairs, demonstrating the potential to evaluate tactics and the impact of numerical advantage. Ultimately, the results enhance the simulations’ credibility and confirm their plausibility, in line with the face validation methodology. This powerful phase bolsters subsequent steps in the overall validation process. In addition, the findings show how specific configurations of the agents, including tactical coordination, can significantly affect the simulation outcomes and validity.
Analysis of influencing factors on numerical simulation of transverse jet in supersonic flow
Authors: Yu Jiang-Fei , Tang Tao , Zhang Jin-Cheng , Xiong Da-Peng , Wang Hong-Bo , Sun Ming-Bo
Published: November 2023

Numerical simulation is becoming an important research method in the field of supersonic flow. Its accuracy and reliability have always been the key to its further application and the focus of current researches. In this study, a series of numerical simulations of transverse supersonic jet in supersonic free flow are carried out based on Reynolds averaged (RANS) solver. Firstly, the flow field structure obtained by different calculation cases is studied, and the mechanism of the difference of flow field structure is described. Furthermore, by changing the accuracy of difference scheme for the convection term and the turbulence model, the different simulation results are compared with the experimental data. The deviation from numerical simulation compared with the experiment is further analyzed to clarify the critical factors affecting the calculation reliability. The results show that improving the accuracy of the scheme cannot effectively improve the calculation results, while choosing an appropriate turbulence model can be helpful to improve the calculation accuracy. When the numerical simulation of jet flow mixing in supersonic flow field is carried out, the conclusions of this study can provide a support for determining the numerical model method and error analysis.
An observational study of player behaviours under varying task constraints in professional Australian football players
Authors: Tribolet Rhys , Sheehan William B , Novak Andrew R , Watsford Mark L , Fransen Job
Published: November 2023

An evaluation of player behaviour and performance across different playing conditions in team sport is difficult. This study examined integrative (indegree and outdegree importance) and individual (goals, kicks, handballs, marks, tackles, kick and handball proficiency) level behaviours at one professional Australian Football club across three different conditions: small-sided games (SSGs), match simulation and competitive Australian Football League (AFL) matches. Estimated marginal means identified negligible changes for integrative measures across conditions. This may suggest larger changes to control parameters are required to modify these behaviours, as it relies on interdependent cooperative behaviour. Individual level behaviours demonstrated varied responses across changing conditions. AFL matches revealed the lowest kicks and marks per minute compared to the other conditions, whilst having the highest rate of tackles. Players had lower kick proficiency in conditions with a higher number of players. Moreover, one SSG with a floater (player who participates in attack for both teams) elicited a higher number of handballs per minute relative to every other condition. These findings provide implications for measuring the (in)stability of individual and integrative level behaviours and how changes to constraints may alter these metrics. This method may provide a foundation for future hypotheses testing and for player monitoring that can assist practitioners to examine the changes in players behaviours in response to changing constraints.
Outcomes of the Latarjet procedure in female patients: A case series and matched-pair analysis
Authors: Berk Alexander N , Ifarraguerri Anna M , Rao Allison J , Dib Aseel G , Hysong Alexander A , Meade Joshua D , Trofa David P , Fleischli James E , Schiffern Shadley C , Hamid Nady , Saltzman Bryan M
Published: November 2023

Background

The objective of this study was to retrospectively report on the outcomes of female patients undergoing the Latarjet procedure.

Methods

Female patients undergoing the Latarjet procedure with minimum 1 year follow-up were identified and contacted to obtain Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), and return to sport (RTS) data. Eligible females were then matched 1:1 with a male counterpart based on laterality and age (± 3 years), and outcomes compared.

Results

A total of 20 female patients with a mean follow-up of 73.8 months reported postoperative NPRS and SSV scores of 2.2  ±  2.3 and 69.3  ±  22.0, respectively. Of the nine athletes, 3 (33%) reported a successful RTS at a mean of 9 months. Four patients (20.0%) required reoperation at a mean of 27.1 months. The matched analysis demonstrated similar NPRS scores between male and female patients and a trend towards lower SSV scores and rates of RTS.

Conclusion

At mid-term follow-up female patients reported pain levels similar to female-specific literature reports, but overall low subjective shoulder function and RTS. Compared to propensity-matched males, females reported similar levels of pain, lower shoulder function, and lower rates of RTS, however, differences did not reach statistical significance.

Level of Evidence

IV, retrospective case series.
No relationships between frequencies of mind-wandering and perceptual rivalry
Authors: Hidaka Souta , Takeshima Miyu , Kawagoe Toshikazu
Published: November 2023

Our minds frequently wander from a task at hand. This mind-wandering reflects fluctuations in our cognitive states. The phenomenon of perceptual rivalry, in which one of the mutually exclusive percepts automatically switches to an ambiguous sensory input, is also known as fluctuations in our perceptual states. There may be possible relationships between the mind-wandering and perceptual rivalry, given that physiological responses such as fluctuations in pupil diameter, which is an index of attentional/arousal states, are related to the occurrence of both phenomena. Here, we investigate possible relationships between mind-wandering and perceptual rivalry by combining experimental and questionnaire methods in an online research protocol. In Study 1, we found no statistically significant relationships between subjective mind-wandering tendencies measured by questionnaires and frequencies of perceptual rivalry for Necker-cube or structure-from-motion stimuli. Study 2 replicated the results of Study 1 and further confirmed no statistically significant relationships between behavioral measurements of mind-wandering tendencies estimated by sustained attention to response task and frequencies of perceptual rivalry. These findings suggest that mind-wandering and perceptual rivalry would be based on different mechanisms, possibly higher-level cognitive and lower-level perceptual ones.
Optimal Contract Under Endogenous Platform Services: Implications of Tax and Advertising
Authors: Poddar Sangita , Banerjee (Chatterjee) Tanmoyee , Banerjee Swapnendu
Published: November 2023

The paper evaluates the contracting problem between a platform and a seller under information asymmetry where the seller holds private information about his/her cost for product quality. Price per product is influenced by seller’s product quality and platform’s service quality. Cost-sharing contract is more desirable as it induces a higher level of qualities and generates higher profit for the platform compared to revenue-sharing contract. The product quality and platform’s service quality vary negatively with the ad-valorem tax imposed on price of the product. We then introduce advertising in our model and observe that the level of advertising is lower under information asymmetry.

JEL Classifications: D86, L21, M37
Improving Knowledge, Confidence, and Skills Related to Engaging in Nutrition Policy-Related Activities Through Authentic Assignments and Class Activities
Authors: Soldavini Jessica , Lowery Caitlin M. , Busse Kyle R. , Ng Shu Wen , Ammerman Alice
Published: November 2023

Authentic assignments are defined as assessments that allow students to complete activities similar to those in which individuals in the field are engaged. They assess student achievement while helping students understand standards and challenges of the field. In this article, we describe the use of authentic assignments and class activities in a graduate-level nutrition policy course at a public university in North Carolina and evaluate outcomes related to students’ knowledge, comfort, and confidence in engaging in nutrition policy-related activities. The course included a variety of authentic assignments and activities, including a group policy brief project, letter to a legislator, case studies, and an elevator pitch on a nutrition policy issue. During the fall of 2020, students enrolled in two sections of the course ( N = 72) were invited to complete a pre- and post-survey. Thirty-five students (49%) completed both surveys and were included in the analyses. There were significant increases in students’ comfort and confidence for engaging in nutrition policy-related activities. Students also appeared to have gained a better understanding of how they and/or their future profession are impacted by nutrition policy and how they and/or their future profession can play a role in nutrition policy. Authentic assignments may be helpful for preparing students to participate in the nutrition policy process.
The geopolitics of outbound travel: Theorizing outgoing tourism as state strategy
Authors: Fayard Gregory
Published: November 2023

There has been a general bias in tourism research toward the politics of the destination country, neglecting the theoretical importance of state policies at source countries in influencing tourism flows. In most studies of international travel, political action is essentially ensconced on the destination side, as governments and other authorities, competing in broader markets, attempt to make destinations attractive for potential visitors. Overlooked is the fact that source states influence tourist routes and behavior, changing the volume, composition, timing, and targets of foreign travel. In redressing these gaps, this paper will present a theory of outgoing travel from a nation-state perspective. I present a typology of theoretical connections between regulating outgoing travel and state strategies of domestic legitimation and foreign policy. Finally, I use this theoretical framework to investigate the specific case of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), to determine to what degree the Chinese central state makes use of outgoing tourism to achieve policy objectives.
Where is it complex to reallocate road space?
Authors: Valença Gabriel , Moura Filipe , Morais de Sá Ana
Published: November 2023

Road space distribution has traditionally been based on the hierarchical classification of streets. In arterials, the majority of space is dedicated to traffic lanes, whereas local streets typically have fewer traffic lanes and more space for parking or sidewalks. Within urban areas, road space is contested between two main types of spaces: corridors of movement, and places for access and standing/stillness/staying. Given the limited availability of urban space, particularly in central areas, deciding how to allocate space for these functions poses a dilemma and requires tradeoffs. Nonetheless, certain areas experience underutilization and inefficiencies in space utilization over time. In this context, we propose a site selection methodology to identify complex zones within a city where different types of users and demands compete for space. These zones present the potential for dynamically allocating road space based on fluctuating demands and policy objectives. This methodology serves as an initial guide for planners to identify zones that require a thorough evaluation of activities and diverse temporal-spatial demands when reallocating road space. We use network centrality, land use indicators, traffic, and public transport dynamics indicators to detect complex zones and apply them to a Lisbon case study.
Empowering Tribal Women Through MGNREGA: A Study of Keonjhar District of Odisha
Authors: Majhi Saraswati , Naik Iswar Chandra
Published: November 2023

Keonjhar district is the central integrated tribal district of Odisha. The tribal families in the Keonjhar district, particularly women, were concerned about financial security. In 2006, the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) programme was initiated in the district during its first implementation stage across the country. The effective investment of the tribal people, particularly tribal women in the Keonjhar district. In the tribal area of Keonjhar district, the scheme has become a vital source of income. The system allowed women to earn money independently and find a good livelihood. It has achieved more significant financial freedom for tribal women. On the whole economic situation of the household has enhanced due to the participation in the programme.As a woman, she began to earn money and she was able to gain respect for tribal women and establish a new identity within the family. As a result, the scheme improved the livelihood opportunities for tribal women in the Keonjhar district of Odisha.
Words matter: Language preferences in a sample of autistic adults
Authors: Flowers Jaime , Dawes Jillian , McCleary Daniel , Marzolf Hunter
Published: November 2023

The terminology used to describe individuals with disabilities is a subject of ongoing debate. The use of person-first language (PFL), such as “person with autism,” is often considered the standard by professionals and organizations. However, some communities of individuals with disabilities, such as the deaf and blind, prefer the use of identity-first language (IFL), such as “autistic person.” According to published and unpublished research, preferences for IFL and PFL vary across groups. The current study evaluated autistic individuals’ language preferences (IFL vs. PFL), relative to diagnosis method, cooccurring disabilities, and rating on a self-report autism measure with a sample of 247 autistic individuals. Results found no consistent trends in language preference, indicating best practice may be to alter language use based on individual preferences when interacting with autistic individuals.
Design of a High Precision Multichannel 3D Bioprinter
Authors: Li Jintao , Zhang Bin , Luo Yichen , Yang Huayong
Published: November 2023

Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology is expected to solve the organ shortage problem. However, owing to the accuracy limitations, it is difficult for the current bioprinting technology to achieve an accurate control of the spatial position and distribution of a single cell or single component droplet. In this study, to accurately achieve the directional deposition of different cells and biological materials in the spatial position for the construction of large transplantable tissues and organs, a high-precision multichannel 3D bioprinter with submicron-level motion accuracy is designed, and concurrent and synergistic printing methods are proposed. Based on the high-precision motion characteristics of the gantry structure and the requirements of concurrent and synergistic printing, a 3D bioprinting system with a set of 6 channels is designed to achieve six-in-one printing. Based on the Visual C++ environment, a control system software that integrates the programmable multi-axis controller (PMAC) motion, pneumatic, and temperature control subsystems was developed and designed. Finally, based on measurements and experiments, the 3D bioprinter and its control system was verified to fulfil the requirements of multichannel, concurrent, and synergistic printing with submicron-level motion accuracy, significantly shortening the printing time and improving the printing efficiency. This study not only provides an equipment basis for printing complex heterogeneous tissue structures, but also improves the flexibility and functionality of bioprinting, and ultimately makes the construction of complex multicellular tissues or organs possible.
Investigation of mechanical properties and elucidation of factors affecting wood-based structural panels under embedment stress with a circular dowel II: detailed observation for plywood and OSB using DIC and CT scanning
Authors: Sudo Ryutaro , Aoki Kenji
Published: November 2023

Although embedment properties are vital to timber engineering, the behavior and strain distributions in wood-based panels have not been clarified in detail. Our early studies suggested four possible causes of failure behavior and strain distribution: (i) two types of failure behavior (in-plane and out-of-plane failure); (ii) enlargement of the stress-spreading range with increasing load step; (iii) reduction of the stress-spreading range (normalized by dowel diameter) with increasing dowel diameter; and (iv) preferential stress spreading in the vertical and horizontal directions along the strong and weak-axis specifications, respectively. However, these hypotheses were not supported by actual observations. The present study aims to observe and clarify the surface strain distribution via digital image correlation and the internal failure behavior via computed tomography scanning. Most results of the wood-based panel specimens (plywood and oriented strand board) did not contradict the above hypotheses. The failure behaviors of plywood and oriented strand board are likely determined by the direction of the veneer fibers and the layer’s position, respectively. Within the strong axial layer of plywood, fibers on both sides of the dowel were densified by fibers dissociated immediately above the dowel, whereas the weak axial layer in plywood was deformed like a timber under partial compression perpendicular to the grain. In contrast, oriented strand board under an embedding stress exhibited a circularly distributed strain and a dispersed void area in its outer layer. Densification was observed only in the inner layer.
Comprehensive exploration of the involvement of cuproptosis in tumorigenesis and progression of neuroblastoma
Authors: Zhou Rui , Huang Dongmei , Fu Wen , Shu Fangpeng
Published: November 2023

Background

Copper-induced cell death, or “cuproptosis,” as an apoptotic process, has recently received much attention in human diseases. Recent studies on cuproptosis have provided novel insights into the pathogenesis of various diseases, especially cancers. However, the association between neuroblastoma (NB) and cuproptosis in terms of their clinical outcomes, tumorigenesis, and treatment response remains unclear.

Methods

To determine the role of cuproptosis in NB tumorigenesis and progression, this study employed a systematic technique to explore the characteristic patterns of 10 key cuproptosis-related genes (CUGs) in NB. Consensus clustering analysis of the TARGET and GEO databases divided the NB patients into two subgroups that showed different clinicopathological attributes, molecular patterns, survival outcomes, disease-associated pathways, tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) features, and treatment responses. Moreover, a cuproptosis scoring scheme was established, which divided the patients with NB into two groups with high scores and low scores as per the median score. Furthermore, this research developed a nomogram and risk signature on the basis of this cuproptosis score to better elucidate its function in predicting NB prognosis. In vitro experiments were carried out using Transwell Assay, HLECs tube formation assay, Colony formation assay, Western Blotting Assay, Immunohistochemical (IHC) Staining, Immunofluorescence (IF) Staining and Flow Cytometry Analysis.

Results

The results demonstrated that the established cuproptosis score and prediction model could effectively distinguish between the individuals in low and high-risk groups and had a high predictive value. Lastly, bioinformatics analysis and in vitro experiments enabled the identification of PDHA1, a key CUG, which was involved in both DNA replication-related pathways and the cell cycle. It was also associated with tumorigenesis and progression of NB.

Conclusion

Cuproptosis, especially PDHA1, play a crucial role in the TIME characteristics, tumor progression, and long-term prognosis of NB. The patterns of cuproptosis assessed in this research may improve the understanding of the overall concept of NB tumorigenesis, thus facilitating the development of more effective therapeutic interventions.
Assessing the effects of 24-epibrassinolide and yeast extract at various levels on cowpea’s morphophysiological and biochemical responses under water deficit stress
Authors: Gholami Faride , Amerian Mohamad Reza , Asghari Hamid Reza , Ebrahimi Amin
Published: November 2023

Background

Due to the factor of water deficit, which has placed human food security at risk by causing a 20% annual reduction in agricultural products, addressing this growing peril necessitates the adoption of inventive strategies aimed at enhancing plant tolerance. One such promising approach is employing elicitors such as 24-epibrassinolide (EBR) and yeast extract, which are potent agents capable of triggering robust defense responses in plants. By employing these elicitors, crops can develop enhanced adaptive mechanisms to combat water deficit and improve their ability to withstand drought condition. This study investigates the impact of different levels of EBR (0, 5, 10 µm) and yeast extract (0 and 12 g/l) on enhancing the tolerance of cowpea to water deficit stress over two growing seasons.

Results

The findings of this study demonstrate that, the combined application of EBR (especially 10 µm) and yeast extract (12 g/l) can increase seed yield (18%), 20-pod weight (16%), the number of pods per plant (18%), total chlorophyll content (90%), and decrease malondialdehyde content (45%) in cowpea, compared to plants grown under water deficit stress without these treatments. Upon implementing these treatments, impressive results were obtained, with the highest recorded values observed for the seed yield (1867.55 kg/ha), 20-pod weight (16.29 g), pods number per plant (9), and total chlorophyll content (19.88 mg g−1 FW). The correlation analysis indicated a significant relationship between the seed yield, and total chlorophyll (0.74**), carotenoids (0.82**), weight of 20 seeds (0.67**), and number of pods (0.90**). These traits should be prioritized in cowpea breeding programs focusing on water deficit stress.

Conclusions

The comprehensive exploration of the effects of EBR and yeast extract across various levels on cowpea plants facing water deficit stress presents a pivotal contribution to the agricultural domain. This research illuminates a promising trajectory for future agricultural practices and users seeking sustainable solutions to enhance crops tolerance. Overall, the implications drawn from this study contribute significantly towards advancing our understanding of plant responses to water deficit stress while providing actionable recommendations for optimizing crop production under challenging environmental conditions.
Geographic distribution and impacts of climate change on the suitable habitats of Rhamnus utilis Decne in China
Authors: Guiquan Song , Jiali Feng , Shuai Gong , Wenya Hao , Xiangkun Kong , Sheng Zhao , Yueling Zhao , Xuelian Jiang
Published: November 2023

Background

Rhamnus utilis Decne (Rhamnaceae) is an ecologically and economically important tree species. The growing market demands and recent anthropogenic impacts to R. utilis forests has negatively impacted its populations severely. However, little is known about the potential distribution of this species and environmental factors that affect habitat suitability for this species. By using 219 occurrence records along with 51 environmental factors, present and future suitable habitats were estimated for R. utilis using Maxent modeling; the important environmental factors affecting its distribution were analyzed.

Results

January water vapor pressure, normalized difference vegetation index, mean diurnal range, and precipitation of the warmest quarter represented the critical factors explaining the environmental requirements of R. utilis. The potential habitat of R. utilis included most provinces from central to southeast China. Under the climate change scenario SSP 245, Maxent predicted a cumulative loss of ca. 0.73 × 105 km2 in suitable habitat for R. utilis during 2041–2060 while an increase of ca. 0.65 × 105 km2 occurred during 2081–2100. Furthermore, under this climate change scenario, the suitable habitat will geographically expand to higher elevations.

Conclusions

The findings of our study provide a foundation for targeted conservation efforts and inform future research on R. utilis. By considering the identified environmental factors and anticipating the potential impacts of climate change, conservation strategies can be developed to preserve and restore suitable habitats for R. utilis. Protecting this species is not only crucial for maintaining biodiversity but also for sustaining the economic benefits associated with its ecological services.
Wheat stripe rust resistance locus YR63 is a hot spot for evolution of defence genes – a pangenome discovery
Authors: Mackenzie Amy , Norman Michael , Gessese Mesfin , Chen Chunhong , Sørensen Chris , Hovmøller Mogens , Ma Lina , Forrest Kerrie , Hickey Lee , Bariana Harbans , Bansal Urmil , Periyannan Sambasivam
Published: November 2023

Background

Stripe rust, caused by Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst), poses a threat to global wheat production. Deployment of widely effective resistance genes underpins management of this ongoing threat. This study focused on the mapping of stripe rust resistance gene YR63 from a Portuguese hexaploid wheat landrace AUS27955 of the Watkins Collection.

Results

YR63 exhibits resistance to a broad spectrum of Pst races from Australia, Africa, Asia, Europe, Middle East and South America. It was mapped to the short arm of chromosome 7B, between two single nucleotide polymorphic (SNP) markers sunCS_YR63 and sunCS_67, positioned at 0.8 and 3.7 Mb, respectively, in the Chinese Spring genome assembly v2.1. We characterised YR63 locus using an integrated approach engaging targeted genotyping-by-sequencing (tGBS), mutagenesis, resistance gene enrichment and sequencing (MutRenSeq), RNA sequencing (RNASeq) and comparative genomic analysis with tetraploid (Zavitan and Svevo) and hexaploid (Chinese Spring) wheat genome references and 10+ hexaploid wheat genomes. YR63 is positioned at a hot spot enriched with multiple nucleotide-binding and leucine rich repeat (NLR) and kinase domain encoding genes, known widely for defence against pests and diseases in plants and animals. Detection of YR63 within these gene clusters is not possible through short-read sequencing due to high homology between members. However, using the sequence of a NLR member we were successful in detecting a closely linked SNP marker for YR63 and validated on a panel of Australian bread wheat, durum and triticale cultivars.

Conclusions

This study highlights YR63 as a valuable source for resistance against Pst in Australia and elsewhere. The closely linked SNP marker will facilitate rapid introgression of YR63 into elite cultivars through marker-assisted selection. The bottleneck of this study reinforces the necessity for a long-read sequencing such as PacBio or Oxford Nanopore based techniques for accurate detection of the underlying resistance gene when it is part of a large gene cluster.
Genome-wide identification and expression patterns of the laccase gene family in response to kiwifruit bacterial canker infection
Authors: Zhang Zhuzhu , Long Youhua , Yin Xianhui , Wang Weizhen , Li Wenzhi , Jiang Lingli , Chen Xuetang , Wang Bince , Ma Jiling
Published: November 2023

Background

Kiwifruit bacterial canker, caused by Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae (Psa), is a destructive disease worldwide. Resistance genes that respond to Psa infection urgently need to be identified for controlling this disease. Laccase is mainly involved in the synthesis of lignin in the plant cell wall and plays a prominent role in plant growth and resistance to pathogen infection. However, the role of laccase in kiwifruit has not been reported, and whether laccase is pivotal in the response to Psa infection remains unclear.

Results

We conducted a bioinformatics analysis to identify 55 laccase genes (AcLAC1–AcLAC55) in the kiwifruit genome. These genes were classified into five cluster groups (I–V) based on phylogenetic analysis, with cluster groups I and II having the highest number of members. Analysis of the exon–intron structure revealed that the number of exons varied from 1 to 8, with an average of 5 introns. Our evolutionary analysis indicated that fragment duplication played a key role in the expansion of kiwifruit laccase genes. Furthermore, evolutionary pressure analysis suggested that AcLAC genes were under purifying selection. We also performed a cis-acting element analysis and found that AcLAC genes contained multiple hormone (337) and stress signal (36) elements in their promoter regions. Additionally, we investigated the expression pattern of laccase genes in kiwifruit stems and leaves infected with Psa. Our findings revealed that laccase gene expression levels in the stems were higher than those in the leaves 5 days after inoculation with Psa. Notably, AcLAC2, AcLAC4, AcLAC17, AcLAC18, AcLAC26, and AcLAC42 showed significantly higher expression levels (p < 0.001) compared to the non-inoculated control (0 d), suggesting their potential role in resisting Psa infection. Moreover, our prediction indicated that 21 kiwifruit laccase genes are regulated by miRNA397, they could potentially act as negative regulators of lignin biosynthesis.

Conclusions

These results are valuable for further analysis of the resistance function and molecular mechanism of laccases in kiwifruit.
Novel beagle model of gastric local fibrotic target lesions for the evaluation and training of endoscopic techniques
Authors: He Xiao-Jian , Wang Xiao-Ling , Jiang Chuan-Shen , Hong Dong-Gui , Lin Hai-Lan , Zheng Yun-Ping , Li Han , Chen Xin-Jiang , Huang Jian-Xiao , Dai Ling-Shuang , Liu Mei-Yan , Luo Bao-Xiang , Li Dong-Liang , Li Da-Zhou , Wang Wen
Published: November 2023

Background

Novel endoscopic techniques used in the treatment of gastric lesions with local submucosal fibrosis need preclinical evaluation and training due to safety limitations. Therefore, the purpose of our study was to establish an animal model of gastric local fibrotic target lesions and assess its feasibility in the evaluation and training of endoscopic techniques.

Methods

In six experimental beagles, a 50% glucose solution was injected into three submucosal areas of the fundus, body, and antrum of the stomach to create gastric local fibrotic target lesions (experimental group). On post-injection day (PID) 7, the injection sites were assessed endoscopically to confirm the presence of submucosal fibrosis formation, and the dental floss clip traction assisted endoscopic submucosal dissection (DFC-ESD) procedure was performed on the gastric local fibrotic target lesions to confirm its feasibility after endoscopic observation. The normal gastric mucosa of six control beagles underwent the same procedure (control group). All the resected specimens were evaluated by histological examination.

Results

All 12 beagles survived without postoperative adverse events. On PID 7, 16 ulcer changes were observed at the injection sites (16/18) under the endoscope, and endoscopic ultrasonography confirmed the local submucosal fibrosis formation in all ulcer lesions. The subsequent DFC-ESD was successfully performed on the 32 gastric target lesions, and the mean submucosal dissection time in the ulcer lesions was greater than that in the normal gastric mucosa (15.3 ± 5.6 vs. 6.8 ± 0.8 min; P < 0.001). There was no difference in rates of en bloc resection, severe hemorrhage, or perforation between the two groups. Histological analysis of the ulcer lesions showed the absence of epithelial or muscularis mucosae and extensive submucosal fibrous tissue proliferations compared with normal gastric mucosa. Overall, endoscopists had high satisfaction with the realism and feasibility of the animal model.

Conclusion

We developed a novel animal model of gastric local fibrotic target lesions to simulate difficult clinical situations, which strongly appeared to be suitable for the preclinical evaluation and learning of advanced endoscopic techniques.
Older adults in the digital health era: insights on the digital health related knowledge, habits and attitudes of the 65 year and older population
Authors: Győrffy Zsuzsa , Boros Julianna , Döbrössy Bence , Girasek Edmond
Published: November 2023

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has increased internet use by older age groups to an unprecedented level in Hungary mirroring the general tendency in the total population. Nevertheless, international trends indicate that this group is less likely to use digital health technologies than younger ones. The aging population raises the question of successfully integrating elderly people into the digital health ecosystem. Our research aim is to investigate the digital health usage patterns and attitudes of the population aged 65 and over through a representative sample.

Methods

A national representative questionnaire survey was conducted by telephone (CATI), interviewing 1723 respondents. Within this sample we examined 428 people in the over-65 age group, 246 in the 65–74 age group and 182 in the over-75 age group. Predictors of demand for digital solutions were tested using binary logistic regression model.

Results

50.8% of people aged 65–74 and 37.1. % of people aged 75 + use the internet for health-related purposes, mostly to access websites. 85% of respondents in 65–74 and 74% in 75 + age group have used more than one digital health device and around 70% of both age groups have a need for more than one digital solution. 90.2% (64–75 age group) and 85.7% (75 + age group) of respondents are familiar with e-prescription, 86.4% and 81.4% of them use it. 77.1% of 65–74-year-olds have heard of and nearly half 45.5% have used online appointment. More than half (52.7%) of the respondents in this age group have heard of and used electronic transmission of medical records and data. A similar proportion has heard about and used apps: 54.3% has heard of them, but only 17.3% has used them. The multivariate analyses emphasized that the need for digital solutions increases with the level of education and the more benefits one perceives in using digital solutions.

Conclusion

Our research has shown that the senior age group has measurable needs in the field of digital health, so helping them on this journey is in the interest of the whole health ecosystem. Their high level of interest is indicated by the fact that more than a fifth of older adults would like to have access to between 7 and 10 of the maximum number of digital devices available. The differences between the two age groups - with younger people being more open to digital solutions and using them more - and the fact that the under 65s are better adapted digitally in all respects, raises the possibility that the specific trends in digital health for older people may virtually disappear in 10 years’ time (when the under 65s now enter this age group).