bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adrenal insufficiency in patients with Prader-Willi syndrome
Authors: Kusz Marcin Jerzy , Gawlik Aneta Monika
Published: November 2022

The generalized dysfunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis in patients with Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is the most likely cause of hypogonadism, inadequate growth hormone secretion, excessive appetite and associated obesity, impaired body temperature regulation, and hypothyroidism. The syndrome is also related to an increased risk of central adrenal insufficiency, although its prevalence remains unknown. The results of the studies in which different methods of pharmacological stimulation were used do not provide conclusive outcomes. As a result, there are no clear guidelines with regard to diagnosis, prevention, or long-term care when adrenal insufficiency is suspected in patients with PWS. Currently, most patients with PWS are treated with recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH). It has been confirmed that rhGH therapy has a positive effect on growth, body composition, body mass index (BMI), and potentially on psychomotor development in children with PWS. Additionally, rhGH may reduce the conversion of cortisone to cortisol through inhibition of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1. However, its influence on basal adrenal function and adrenal stress response remains unexplained in children with PWS. This paper reviews the literature related to the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysfunction in the PWS patient population with a focus on children.
Environmental and economic assessment of switching from heavy fuel oil to natural gas in industrial boilers and furnaces: Case of Cameroon, a low-income country
Authors: Koumi Ngoh Simon , Epessé Missé Samuel , Moungnutou Mfetoum Inoussah
Published: November 2022

This paper analyzes the environmental and economic impact of switching fuel in industrial boilers and furnaces. This analysis, performed over 5 years, reveals that the total emissions thus avoided are 85,069 tons of CO2, 17,240 kg of CH4, 4,310 tons of N2O, and 6,630 tons of SOx. The total equivalent CO2 emissions avoided is around 87,802 tons over the decade 2012–2021. Switching results in a significant reduction in greenhouse gases: 17.8% of CO2 emissions, 66.7% of CH4 emissions, and 83.3% of N2O emissions. Analysis conducted at the boiler level shows that CO2 and CO emissions would decrease, respectively, by 2.5% points and 1.05 ppm points when natural gas is used. The same observation is made for SOx and NOx emissions, for which decreases of 188.3 and 236.7 ppm points are recorded. Additionally, the substitution of heavy fuel oil for natural gas enables an increase in thermal efficiency by 3.3% points.
Path and boundary of the influence of social entrepreneurial opportunity identification on the growth of commercial startups
Authors: Junjie Wu , Yawei Zhang , Qiao Qiao Ding
Published: November 2022

Social entrepreneurship, as a way for enterprises to fulfill social responsibility, is becoming one of the key means to reconcile social contradictions in China. In the field of social entrepreneurship as entrepreneurship research focus in the emerging background, such as type business start-ups face “vulnerable” new defects, social entrepreneurship, how to deal with scarce resources, social entrepreneurship resources come from and how to create such basic problems as what kind of results is still not well explain, related research is still in a state of “cumulative pieces”. Therefore, this paper focuses on the social opportunity identification of commercial new ventures, and empirically analyzes the mechanism of social entrepreneurial opportunity identification and resource patchwork on their growth. The results demonstrate that finding social entrepreneurial opportunities is an important part of how resource collages can help social enterprises grow, and the entrepreneur’s social network allows for the mediating effect of resource collage. The more sources of “strong relationships” in entrepreneurs’ social networks, the stronger the impact of social entrepreneurial opportunity identification on the growth performance of commercial startups. Focusing on the field of corporate social entrepreneurship, our findings establish a complete chain of social entrepreneurship processes, from motivation to behavior to corporate sustainability. The findings confirm the mechanism by which social entrepreneurial opportunity identification and resource patchwork help to improve the growth performance of commercial new ventures, and also suggest that entrepreneurs’ social networks can relieve entrepreneurs’ dependence on external network construction to a certain extent.
Revolution of new energy industry: Spatio-temporal dynamics and drivers of technological diffusion in Zhejiang, China
Authors: Liu Jie , Chen Tao , Chen Ziyi
Published: November 2022

The new energy that aims to reduce pollution is the technological trend of energy development in the future. The development of the new energy industry is a complex system. Studying the spatio-temporal revolution of new energy industry helps analyse the development trend, supply, and demand of new energy. Thus, taking Zhejiang Province as an example, the spatial evolution of the new energy industry from 2016 to 2021 is studied. The evolution trend of spatial agglomeration of the new energy industry shows the coexistence of agglomeration and diffusion. No overall agglomeration of the new energy industry in Zhejiang Province is observed. The development performs solid spatial dependence. The results indicate that it is challenging to aggregate resources and achieves economies of scale without a leading enterprise. The diffusion of new energy technologies in the future depends on industrial agglomeration and the cultivation of leading enterprises.
Human influence on bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) strandings in the northern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Carmichael Ruth H. , Hodanbosi Matthew R. , Russell Mackenzie L. , Wingers Noel L.
Published: November 2022

Human activity affects marine mammal stranding rates in two major ways; through human interaction (HI) that may lead to mortality and through search and response efforts that enable carcass detection. To better quantify the combined effects of these interacting human influences, we analyzed strandings for bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in the northern Gulf of Mexico (nGOM), an area of high cetacean strandings. To identify hotspots of human influence, we first determined the number of total and HI-related bottlenose dolphin strandings normalized to shoreline length in each nGOM U.S. state, which represent major response areas. To estimate the effects of response effort on stranding numbers (for HI and non-HI strandings), we used theDeepwater Horizonoil spill (DWHOS) as an established benchmark to compare periods of lower (pre-spill) and higher (post-spill) response effort. Strandings in Alabama waters were used as a case study to detail spatial and temporal variation due to human influences during the 39-year period of retrospective study. We found an increase in strandings from Louisiana through Alabama following the DWHOS. Non-oil related HI strandings increased in total number in AL, and they increased as a proportion of total strandings in Alabama (16%) and the Florida panhandle (12%). The increase in HI-related strandings in Alabama was driven by mortality of many types, but particularly fishery interactions and cases of apparent intentional harm. The Alabama case study clearly detected lower stranding numbers during periods of low or intermittent response coverage. Our findings are consistent with an overall increase in stranding numbers due to a combination of increased stranding occurrence and response effort following the DWHOS. Importantly, we provide evidence that HI-related standings increased independently from the DWHOS, with ongoing increases in at least one hotspot (Alabama). These findings provide a first step to parsing out different effects of human influences on stranding data for a common coastal cetacean. Our approach establishes baselines for future damage and recovery assessments, identifies areas where resources can be focused for management and education, and highlights the power of response and monitoring agencies to positively influence stranding datasets.
Radiotherapy plus CAR-T cell therapy to date: A note for cautions optimism?
Authors: Huan Tian , Li Hongbo , Tang Bin
Published: November 2022

Radiotherapy (RT) is a traditional therapeutic regime that focuses on ionizing radiation, however, RT maintains largely palliative due to radioresistance. Factors such as hypoxia, the radiosensitivity of immune cells, and cancer stem cells (CSCs) all come into play in influencing the significant impact of radioresistance in the irradiated tumor microenvironment (TME). Due to the substantial advances in the treatment of malignant tumors, a promising approach is the genetically modified T cells with chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) to eliminate solid tumors. Moreover, CAR-T cells targeting CSC-related markers would eliminate radioresistant solid tumors. But solid tumors that support an immune deserted TME, are described as immunosuppressive and typically fail to respond to CAR-T cell therapy. And RT could overcome these immunosuppressive features; thus, growing evidence supports the combination of RT with CAR-T cell therapy. In this review, we provide a deep insight into the radioresistance mechanisms, advances, and barriers of CAR-T cells in response to solid tumors within TME. Therefore, we focus on how the combination strategy can be used to eliminate these barriers. Finally, we show the challenges of this therapeutic partnership.
Case Report: Mutations in JAK3 causing severe combined immunodeficiency complicated by disseminated Bacille Calmette–Guérin disease and Pneumocystis pneumonia
Authors: Pan Ying , Pan Hui , Lian Chunan , Wu Beiyan , Lin Jieying , Huang Guang , Cui Binglin
Published: November 2022

Background

As a form of severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), Janus kinase 3 (JAK3) deficiency can be fatal during severe infections in children, especially after inoculation of live-attenuated vaccines. We report a unique case of JAK3 deficiency with two compound heterozygous JAK3 mutations complicated by disseminated Bacille Calmette–Guérin (BCG) disease and Pneumocystis pneumonia.

Case description

A 5-month-old Chinese girl presented with recurring fever and productive cough after BCG vaccination and ineffective antibiotic treatment. Chest CT demonstrated bilateral infiltrations, enlarged mediastinal and axillary lymph nodes, and hypoplasia of the thymus. Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Pneumocystis jirovecii were detected from blood samples by sequencing. Acid-fast bacilli were also found from the sputum aspirate and gastric aspirate. Lymphocyte subset analyses indicated T-B+NK- immunodeficiency, and gene sequencing identified two heterozygous missense mutations (one unreported globally) in the Janus homology 7 (JH7) domain of JAK3. The patient received rifampicin, isoniazid, ethambutol, and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and was discharged after improvements but against advice.

Outcome

The patient died at 13 months of age due to severe infections and hepatic damage.

Discussion

SCID should be recognized before inoculation of live-attenuated vaccines in children. Newborn screening for SCID is advocated. Further investigations are needed to better understand the pathogenicity of the variants and molecular mechanism of the JH7 domain of JAK3.
A brief review on the validation of biology methods for COVID-19 detection
Authors: Chung Le Thi Kim , Vung Nguyen Dang , Uyen Ngo Thi , Hanh Bui Thi Minh , Huong Le Thi , Hien Pham Thi , Xuan Le Thi Thanh , Ha Nguyen Thuy , Dat Dao Xuan
Published: November 2022

The COVID-19 global pandemic has been going on for more than two years, and the evolution of SARS-CoV-2 with many variants of concern still poses a risk to public health. Sufficient access to qualified and validated testing plays an important role in detecting and alerting trends of the pandemic and provides evidence for making decisions in preventive strategies and policies. Depending on the method of testing and laboratory conditions, validation parameters (i.e., analytical sensitivity, limit of detection, diagnostic sensitivity, analytical specificity, diagnostic specificity, repeatability, reproducibility, robustness, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, applicability, practicability, and time to results) can be very different. With three main types of COVID-19 detection kits available, comprising nucleic acid, serological, and antigen detection, the kind of validation parameters that should be used becomes a complicated consideration and takes time to assess. Our review provides valuable and comprehensive information for laboratories in the assessment and selection of the optimal parameters to validate new COVID-19 test kits.
Spiciness anomalies in the upper North Pacific based on Argo observations
Authors: Wang Tong , Suga Toshio , Kouketsu Shinya
Published: November 2022

The density-compensated salinity anomalies (spiciness anomalies) in the upper North Pacific were investigated using Argo float profiles during 2004–2018. The freshening of the subtropical thermocline was found within the Central Mode Water (CMW) and the North Pacific Intermediate Water (salinity minimum). Meanwhile, the increase of salinity was found in the lighter layer within the North Pacific Tropical Water (salinity maximum). The interannual and longer spiciness anomalies were interpreted with three-dimensional evolutions and were linked to the fate of three mode waters (i.e., Subtropical Mode Water (STMW), Eastern Subtropical Mode Water (ESTMW), and CMW) for the first time. In the STMW, the salinity was dominated by a quasi-decadal variability, which was consistent with the KE variability with a 1-year lag, and did not show rapid freshening. In the CMW, the salinity decreased with a quasi-decadal variability, which was weaker and out of the phase compared with the STMW. In the ESTMW, the salinity was dominated by year-to-year variability. The spiciness anomalies originated mainly in the outcrop region of the isopycnals, where they were accompanied by the formation and the subduction of the mode waters. They also propagated and decayed downstream the geostrophic currents. However, a few of the interannual anomalies found in the northern part of the CMW were almost dampened before their spread further south. In addition, some anomalies in the ESTMW appeared and intensified without a connection to the mixed layer. These anomalies occurred far from the outcrop line, suggesting these were caused likely by salt fingering associated with the modification of the mode waters. Furthermore, the propagation of the spiciness anomalies in the western to the central subtropics was significantly faster than the geostrophic current and inclined to the inner side of streamlines. These indicated the transport by eddies in addition to the mean geostrophic currents.
Potential risk from and prevention of phytoplankton outbreaks in blocking the cooling water system in a nuclear power plant on the Southeast China coast
Authors: Wang Yu , Chen Xiaoyin , Lin Yingyue , Zhang Shuyi , Chang Lin , Tang Xiaoming , Xiang Peng , Lin Heshan
Published: November 2022

The invasion or aggregation of marine biota in coastal waters has become a common problem, threatening the safety of cooling water systems in the context of environmental and climate changes. However, studies on issues of coastal nuclear power plants from the view of marine ecology have mostly focused on the thermal effluent, entrainment effect on organisms, residual chlorine, radioactivity, etc. There is a lack of information on the safety of cooling water systems in nuclear power plants blocked by marine biota. Based on field and historical datasets, this study screened phytoplankton species that may potentially block the cooling water system of the Fuqing nuclear power plant on the Southeast China coast, identified the phytoplankton risk and a risk calendar, and established a catalog of risk phytoplankton species for the cooling water system. The screening criteria were simultaneously required as follows: (1) particle size of cells or group >2000 μm; (2) phytoplankton bloom or aggregation events occurred in surrounding areas; (3) and species abundance maintained at >0.5×105 cells/L in the surrounding area. Nine high-risk species were screened out that can easily form colonies, clusters, and groups, including Thalassiosira diporocyclus, Thalassiosira subtilis, Noctiluca scintillans, Phaeocystis globosa, Pseudo-nitzschia pungens, Pseudo-nitzschia delicatissima, Skeletonema costatum, Skeletonema dohrnii, Paralia sulcata. Due to small cells or the formation of short chains, some dominant phytoplankton species, even those with advantages in abundance and occurrence, had difficulty threatening the reliability of cooling water systems in nuclear power plants. The outbreak of different phytoplankton species varied daily, and the risk of blockage was highest from April to July. The biological characteristics, ecological mechanisms underlying outbreaks of high-risk phytoplankton species are reviewed and discussed, suggesting a high degree of temporal and spatial variability of blockage risk. Finally, main prevention and control measures used against high-risk phytoplankton species are provided to imply new ideas and methods for nuclear power plants. These strategies have very important practical and scientific significance.
Discovery and chemical composition of the eastmost deep-sea anoxic brine pools in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Herut Barak , Rubin-Blum Maxim , Sisma-Ventura Guy , Jacobson Yitzhak , Bialik Or M. , Ozer Tal , Lawal Muhedeen Ajibola , Giladi Asaf , Kanari Mor , Antler Gilad , Makovsky Yizhaq
Published: November 2022

Deep-sea anoxic brine pools are unique and extreme, yet habitable environments. However, their extent and processes of formation are not fully understood. Using geophysical analysis and seafloor surveying, we discovered the eastmost brine pools known in the ultraoligotrophic Eastern Mediterranean Sea, at the Palmahim Disturbance offshore Israel (~1150 m water depth). These brine pools are located directly above a ~1km wide piece of the Messinian evaporites section, which was up thrusted to ~350 m below the seafloor. We sampled brines and short cores to characterize the chemical composition of several small (up to 5m diameter) anoxic, methanic and warm (21.6°C) brine pools and adjacent seafloor sediments porewater. The maximal salinities measured at the pools and adjacent porewater were 63.9 and 72 PSU, respectively. The brines are characterized by enriched Na and Cl concentrations by a factor of ~1.8 and depleted Mg, SO4, K and Ca contents by factors of circa 6, 3, 2 and ~1.3, respectively, compared to the ambient seawater. Relations of the major element concentrations reveal a mixing curve between seawater and enriched Na/Cl and depleted Mg/Cl, K/Cl and SO4/Cl end-members, and do not coincide with relics of fossil residual evaporated seawater. We propose their composition reflects: 1) dissolution of Messinian halite (NaCl) by seawater, supported by their low Br/Cl ratios; 2) additional small rise in Na/Cl ratios due to the impact of clay mineral dehydration or/and dissolution of trace (~1% of the Na) amounts of detrital trona (Na3H(CO3)2•2H20), coinciding with the enriched alkalinity concentrations; 3) diagenesis processes depleting Mg, K and SO4, mainly by the formation of authigenic K-rich Mg-smectite, clay mineral dehydration, dolomitization/Mg-calcite precipitation and redox processes. The δ18O and δD values of the Palmahim brine may reflect the impact of clay mineral dehydration. Comparison to all other East Mediterranean brine lakes shows that the Palmahim brine pool system represents similar provenance of brines as observed for the Eastern Mediterranean Napoli, Nadir and Tyro lakes, while potentially recording additional processes attributed to its proximity to the coastal area.
Food falls in the deep northwestern Weddell Sea
Authors: Stauffer Julian B. , Purser Autun , Griffiths Huw J. , Smith Craig R. , Hoving Henk-Jan T.
Published: November 2022

When pelagic organisms die and fall onto the deep-sea floor they create food falls, i.e., parcels of organic enrichment that subsidize deep benthic scavenging communities. The diversity and quantities of food falls remain unstudied for many ocean regions since they are stochastically deposited and rapidly scavenged. The Southern Ocean habitat supports large populations of megafauna but few food falls have been documented. To investigate the diversity and quantity of food falls in the northwestern Weddell Sea, we analyzed 8476 images from the deep seafloor that were captured during the expedition PS118 on RV Polarstern in 2019 by the camera system OFOBS (Ocean Floor Observation and Bathymetry System). OFOBS was towed 1.5 m above the seafloor along five transects (400 to 2200 m seafloor depth) east of the Antarctic Peninsula. We observed the carcasses of one baleen whale, one penguin, and four fish at depths of 647 m, 613 m, 647 m, 2136 m, 2165 m, and 2112 m, respectively, as well as associated scavenging fauna. To the best of our knowledge, we describe here the first in situ observations of deep-sea food falls for penguins and fish in the Southern Ocean. While the whale carcass seemed in an intermediate successional stage, both the penguin and the fish were likely recently deposited and three of the fish potentially resulted from fishery discards. Our relatively small data set suggests that a diverse array of food falls provide nutrients to the slopes of the Powell Basin.
Common dolphins (Delphinus delphis) in Israel: Unique dynamics of a critically endangered population
Authors: Mevorach Yaly , Scheinin Aviad , Galili Ori , Santostasi Nina Luisa , Tchernov Dan
Published: November 2022

The most eastern population of common dolphins (Delphinus delphis) in the Mediterranean Sea inhabits the southern coastal waters of Israel. They are mainly observed in the shallow waters off Ashdod and Ashkelon, between the 15-30 m isobaths, with no reported observations north or west of this area. These dolphins were observed and studied year-round between 2016-2021 using boat-based surveys and photo identification methods. Common dolphins were encountered and photographed 43 times during the study period, resulting in 2,851 identifications of 25 distinctive mature individuals and 12 calves. Most individuals (62%) were sighted over multiple years, with high yearly and monthly sighting rates, indicating long-term site fidelity and residency. Closed population mark-recapture models estimated a total abundance of 25 (95% CI 24 – 37) individuals in 2016 that declined to only 15 (95% CI 15 – 15) individuals in 2021. Social network analysis described these remaining individuals as one closed and well-associated social unit. Survival probabilities for this population appeared lower than those of other delphinid populations. The decrease in their abundance, coupled with their apparent isolation level, qualifies the local population for a re-assessment of their conservation status. This study first describes the Israeli local population of common dolphins, their dynamics and an assessment of their status based on the IUCN Red List framework.
Transferability of radiomic signatures from experimental to human interstitial lung disease
Authors: Gabryś Hubert S. , Gote-Schniering Janine , Brunner Matthias , Bogowicz Marta , Blüthgen Christian , Frauenfelder Thomas , Guckenberger Matthias , Maurer Britta , Tanadini-Lang Stephanie
Published: November 2022

Background

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) defines a group of parenchymal lung disorders, characterized by fibrosis as their common final pathophysiological stage. To improve diagnosis and treatment of ILD, there is a need for repetitive non-invasive characterization of lung tissue by quantitative parameters. In this study, we investigated whether CT image patterns found in mice with bleomycin induced lung fibrosis can be translated as prognostic factors to human patients diagnosed with ILD.

Methods

Bleomycin was used to induce lung fibrosis in mice (n_control = 36, n_experimental = 55). The patient cohort consisted of 98 systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients (n_ILD = 65). Radiomic features (n_histogram = 17, n_texture = 137) were extracted from microCT (mice) and HRCT (patients) images. Predictive performance of the models was evaluated with the area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC). First, predictive performance of individual features was examined and compared between murine and patient data sets. Second, multivariate models predicting ILD were trained on murine data and tested on patient data. Additionally, the models were reoptimized on patient data to reduce the influence of the domain shift on the performance scores.

Results

Predictive power of individual features in terms of AUC was highly correlated between mice and patients (r = 0.86). A model based only on mean image intensity in the lung scored AUC = 0.921 ± 0.048 in mice and AUC = 0.774 (CI95% 0.677-0.859) in patients. The best radiomic model based on three radiomic features scored AUC = 0.994 ± 0.013 in mice and validated with AUC = 0.832 (CI95% 0.745-0.907) in patients. However, reoptimization of the model weights in the patient cohort allowed to increase the model’s performance to AUC = 0.912 ± 0.058.

Conclusion

Radiomic signatures of experimental ILD derived from microCT scans translated to HRCT of humans with SSc-ILD. We showed that the experimental model of BLM-induced ILD is a promising system to test radiomic models for later application and validation in human cohorts.
The alternative proteome in neurobiology
Authors: Mohaupt Pablo , Roucou Xavier , Delaby Constance , Vialaret Jérôme , Lehmann Sylvain , Hirtz Christophe
Published: November 2022

Translation involves the biosynthesis of a protein sequence following the decoding of the genetic information embedded in a messenger RNA (mRNA). Typically, the eukaryotic mRNA was considered to be inherently monocistronic, but this paradigm is not in agreement with the translational landscape of cells, tissues, and organs. Recent ribosome sequencing (Ribo-seq) and proteomics studies show that, in addition to currently annotated reference proteins (RefProt), other proteins termed alternative proteins (AltProts), and microproteins are encoded in regions of mRNAs thought to be untranslated or in transcripts annotated as non-coding. This experimental evidence expands the repertoire of functional proteins within a cell and potentially provides important information on biological processes. This review explores the hitherto overlooked alternative proteome in neurobiology and considers the role of AltProts in pathological and healthy neuromolecular processes.
Convergent and divergent neural circuit architectures that support acoustic communication
Authors: Kelley Darcy B.
Published: November 2022

Vocal communication is used across extant vertebrates, is evolutionarily ancient, and been maintained, in many lineages. Here I review the neural circuit architectures that support intraspecific acoustic signaling in representative anuran, mammalian and avian species as well as two invertebrates, fruit flies and Hawaiian crickets. I focus on hindbrain motor control motifs and their ties to respiratory circuits, expression of receptors for gonadal steroids in motor, sensory, and limbic neurons as well as divergent modalities that evoke vocal responses. Hindbrain and limbic participants in acoustic communication are highly conserved, while forebrain participants have diverged between anurans and mammals, as well as songbirds and rodents. I discuss the roles of natural and sexual selection in driving speciation, as well as exaptation of circuit elements with ancestral roles in respiration, for producing sounds and driving rhythmic vocal features. Recent technical advances in whole brain fMRI across species will enable real time imaging of acoustic signaling partners, tying auditory perception to vocal production.
Application of Balloon AngioplaSty with the dIstal protection of Stent Retriever (BASIS) technique for acute intracranial artery atherosclerosis-related occlusion
Authors: Yi Ting-yu , Wu Yan-min , Lin Ding-lai , Pan Zhi-nan , Zheng Xiu-fen , Gan Ji , Wu Mei-hua , Lin Xiao-hui , Chen Rong-cheng , Zeng Li-san , Chen Wen-huo
Published: November 2022

Background

Endovascular therapy (EVT) is complex in the context of intracranial atherosclerosis (ICAS)-related large vessel occlusion (LVO) and the re-occlusion rates are high due to residual stenosis, the procedure time is long and the optimal EVT technique is unclear. The Balloon AngioplaSty with the dIstal protection of Stent Retriever (BASIS) technique is a novel thrombectomy technique that allows emergent balloon angioplasty to be performed via the wire of the retrieval stent. Our study presents our initial experience with the BASIS technique in ICAS-related LVO and assesses its feasibility.

Method

In patients with ICAS-related LVO treated with BASIS, clinical and angiographic data were retrospectively analyzed. Angiographic data included first-pass reperfusion (PFR), the rate of residual stenosis, distal emboli, and re-occlusion post-procedure. The Extended Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (eTICI) scale was used to assess reperfusion extent, and an eTICI score ≥2b was defined as successful perfusion. Clinical outcome was evaluated at 3 months (modified Rankin score [mRS]), and an mRS ≤ 2 was defined as a good clinical outcome.

Results

A total of seven patients with ICAS-related LVO were included, and the median age of the patients was 76 years. All patients achieved eTICI 3 reperfusion and FPR. The residual stenosis rate ranged from 5 to 10%. None of the patients had re-occlusion post-procedure. The median puncture-to-reperfusion time was 51 min. None of the patients had a symptomatic cerebral hemorrhage, re-occlusion, distal embolism, and dissection. Good clinical outcomes were observed in four patients (4/7, 57.1%), and 1 patient (1/7, 14.3%) died.

Conclusion

The BASIS technique is feasible and safe for treating acute ICAS-related LVO.
Altered bodily perceptions in chronic neuropathic pain conditions and implications for treatment using immersive virtual reality
Authors: Donegan Tony , Ryan Brenda E. , Sanchez-Vives Maria V. , Świdrak Justyna
Published: November 2022

Chronic neuropathic pain is highly disabling and difficult to treat and manage. Patients with such conditions often report altered bodily perceptions that are thought to be associated with maladaptive structural and functional alterations in the somatosensory cortex. Manipulating these altered perceptions using body illusions in virtual reality is being investigated and may have positive clinical implications for the treatment of these conditions. Here, we have conducted a narrative review of the evidence for the types of bodily distortions associated with a variety of peripheral and central neuropathic pain conditions. In addition, we summarize the experimental and clinical studies that have explored embodiment and body transformation illusions in immersive virtual reality for neuropathic pain relief, which are thought to target these maladaptive changes, as well as suggesting directions for future research.
RJAfinder: An automated tool for quantification of responding to joint attention behaviors in autism spectrum disorder using eye tracking data
Authors: Zhang Jie , Li Ziyi , Wu Yige , Ye Adam Yongxin , Chen Lei , Yang Xiaoxu , Wu Qixi , Wei Liping
Published: November 2022

Deficits in responding to joint attention (RJA) are early symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Currently, no automated tools exist for identifying and quantifying RJA behaviors. A few eye tracking studies have investigated RJA in ASD children but have produced conflicting results. In addition, little is known about the trajectory of RJA development through developmental age. Here, a new video was designed including 12 clips of an actor pointing to or looking at an object. Eye tracking technology was used to monitor RJA in three groups: 143 ASD children assessed with the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) (4–7 years old), 113 age- and gender-matched typically developing children (TDC), and 43 typically developing adults (TDA) (19–32 years old). RJAfinder was developed in R and MATLAB to quantify RJA events from the eye tracking data. RJA events were compared among the three groups. Spearman correlation coefficients between total number of RJA events in ASD and the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) scores were calculated. A logistic regression model was built using the average valid sampling rate and the total number of RJA events as two predictive variables to classify ASD and TDC groups. ASD children displayed statistically significantly less RJA events than the TDC and TDA groups with medium-to-large-sized effects. ASD and TDC children both displayed more RJA events in response to pointing stimuli than to looking stimuli. Our logistic regression model predicted ASD tendency with 0.76 accuracy in the testing set. RJA ability improved more slowly between the ages of 4–7 years old in the ASD group than in the TDC group. In ASD children, RJA ability showed negative correlation with SRS total T-score as well as the scores of five subdomains. Our study provides an automated tool for quantifying RJA and insights for the study of RJA in ASD children, which may help improve ASD screening, subtyping, and behavior interventions.
The modulation of emotional and social behaviors by oxytocin signaling in limbic network
Authors: Triana-Del Rio Rodrigo , Ranade Sayali , Guardado Jahel , LeDoux Joseph , Klann Eric , Shrestha Prerana
Published: November 2022

Neuropeptides can exert volume modulation in neuronal networks, which account for a well-calibrated and fine-tuned regulation that depends on the sensory and behavioral contexts. For example, oxytocin (OT) and oxytocin receptor (OTR) trigger a signaling pattern encompassing intracellular cascades, synaptic plasticity, gene expression, and network regulation, that together function to increase the signal-to-noise ratio for sensory-dependent stress/threat and social responses. Activation of OTRs in emotional circuits within the limbic forebrain is necessary to acquire stress/threat responses. When emotional memories are retrieved, OTR-expressing cells act as gatekeepers of the threat response choice/discrimination. OT signaling has also been implicated in modulating social-exposure elicited responses in the neural circuits within the limbic forebrain. In this review, we describe the cellular and molecular mechanisms that underlie the neuromodulation by OT, and how OT signaling in specific neural circuits and cell populations mediate stress/threat and social behaviors. OT and downstream signaling cascades are heavily implicated in neuropsychiatric disorders characterized by emotional and social dysregulation. Thus, a mechanistic understanding of downstream cellular effects of OT in relevant cell types and neural circuits can help design effective intervention techniques for a variety of neuropsychiatric disorders.
Effects of the clathrin inhibitor Pitstop-2 on synaptic vesicle recycling at a central synapse in vivo
Authors: Paksoy Alp , Hoppe Simone , Dörflinger Yvette , Horstmann Heinz , Sätzler Kurt , Körber Christoph
Published: November 2022

Four modes of endocytosis and subsequent synaptic vesicle (SV) recycling have been described at the presynapse to ensure the availability of SVs for synaptic release. However, it is unclear to what extend these modes operate under physiological activity patterns in vivo. The coat protein clathrin can regenerate SVs either directly from the plasma membrane (PM) via clathrin-mediated endocytosis (CME), or indirectly from synaptic endosomes by SV budding. Here, we examined the role of clathrin in SV recycling under physiological conditions by applying the clathrin inhibitor Pitstop-2 to the calyx of Held, a synapse optimized for high frequency synaptic transmission in the auditory brainstem, in vivo. The effects of clathrin-inhibition on SV recycling were investigated by serial sectioning scanning electron microscopy (S3EM) and 3D reconstructions of endocytic structures labeled by the endocytosis marker horseradish peroxidase (HRP). We observed large endosomal compartments as well as HRP-filled, black SVs (bSVs) that have been recently recycled. The application of Pitstop-2 led to reduced bSV but not large endosome density, increased volumes of large endosomes and shifts in the localization of both types of endocytic compartments within the synapse. These changes after perturbation of clathrin function suggest that clathrin plays a role in SV recycling from both, the PM and large endosomes, under physiological activity patterns, in vivo.
Volume and flow modulation strategies to mitigate post-hepatectomy liver failure
Authors: Bell Richard , Begum Saleema , Prasad Raj , Taura Kojiro , Dasari Bobby V. M.
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Post hepatectomy liver failure is the most common cause of death following major hepatic resections with a perioperative mortality rate between 40% to 60%. Various strategies have been devised to increase the volume and function of future liver remnant (FLR). This study aims to review the strategies used for volume and flow modulation to reduce the incidence of post hepatectomy liver failure.

Method

An electronic search was performed of the MEDLINE, EMBASE and PubMed databases from 2000 to 2022 using the following search strategy “Post hepatectomy liver failure”, “flow modulation”, “small for size flow syndrome”, “portal vein embolization”, “dual vein embolization”, “ALPPS” and “staged hepatectomy” to identify all articles published relating to this topic.

Results

Volume and flow modulation strategies have evolved over time to maximize the volume and function of FLR to mitigate the risk of PHLF. Portal vein with or without hepatic vein embolization/ligation, ALPPS, and staged hepatectomy have resulted in significant hypertrophy and kinetic growth of FLR. Similarly, techniques including portal flow diversion, splenic artery ligation, splenectomy and pharmacological agents like somatostatin and terlipressin are employed to reduce the risk of small for size flow syndrome SFSF syndrome by decreasing portal venous flow and increasing hepatic artery flow at the same time.

Conclusion

The current review outlines the various strategies of volume and flow modulation that can be used in isolation or combination in the management of patients at risk of PHLF.
Schwann cells promote the migration and invasion of colorectal cancer cells via the activated NF-κB/IL-8 axis in the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Chen Shuhai , Chen Mingyou
Published: November 2022

Background

Evidence has shown neurons and glial cells were closely related to tumor progression. As the predominant glial cells in the external innervated nerves of the gastrointestinal, the role of Schwann cells (SCs) in colorectal cancer (CRC) has not been well explored.

Methods

HCT-116 and HT-29 CRC cells were treated with conditioned medium (CM) from SCs, and the cells’ proliferative and migrating capacities were examined. Cytokine array analysis was used to identify the tumor-promoting-cytokines from SCs-CM. Molecular changes from SCs after being co-cultured with tumor cells were detected by ELISA and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. The activation of the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway in SCs was demonstrated by immunofluorescence staining. Neutralizing antibody was used to verify the tumor-promoting effects of key cytokine.

Results

Migration and invasion of CRC cells were markedly aided by CM from SCs in vitro. Interleukin-8 (IL-8) was identified as an effective factor. SCs co-cultured with CRC cells upregulated IL-8 expression, which may be related to its activated NF-κB signaling pathway. Neutralization of IL-8 attenuated the tumor-promoting effect of SCs.

Conclusion

The present study identified a new mechanism of tumor-neuroglia interaction, enriching the concept of the tumor-neural axis in the tumor microenvironment of CRC, which also inspired potential targets for anti-cancer therapies.
Pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation in infant and children with chronic diseases: A simple approach?
Authors: Uzun Davut D. , Lang Kristin , Saur Patrick , Weigand Markus A. , Schmitt Felix C. F.
Published: November 2022

Infants and children with complex chronic diseases have lifelong, life-threatening conditions and for many, early death is an unavoidable outcome of their disease process. But not all chronic diseases in children are fatal when treated well. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation is more common in children with chronic diseases than in healthy children. Resuscitation of infants and children presents significant challenges to physicians and healthcare providers. Primarily, these situations occur only rarely and are therefore not only medically demanding but also associated with emotional stress. In case of resuscitation in infants and children with chronic diseases these challenges become much more complex. The worldwide valid Pediatric Advanced Life Support Guidelines do not give clear recommendations how to deal with periarrest situations in chronically ill infants and children. For relevant life-limiting illnesses, a “do not resuscitate” order should be discussed early, taking into account medical, ethical, and emotional considerations. The decision to terminate resuscitative efforts in cardiopulmonary arrest in infants and children with chronic illnesses such as severe lung disease, heart disease, or even incurable cancer is complex and controversial among physicians and parents. Judging the “outcome” of resuscitation as a “good” outcome becomes complex because for some, life extension itself and for others, quality of life is a goal. Physicians often decide that a healthy child is more likely to have a reversible condition and thereby have a better outcome than a child with multiple comorbidities and chronic health care needs. Major challenges in resuscitation infants and children are that clinicians need to individualize resuscitation strategies in light of each chronic disease, anatomy and physiology. This review aims to highlight terms of resuscitation infants and children with complex chronic diseases, considering resuscitation-related factors, parent-related factors, patient-related factors, and physician-related factors.
Treatment decision in a 4-year-old-boy with left ventricular outpouching after advanced hemodynamical flow evaluation with 4Dflow CMR: A case report
Authors: Lagerstrand Kerstin , Svensson Par-Arne , Andersson Linnea , Synnergren Mats , Öhman Annika , Petersson Magnus , Sunnegardh Jan , Dangardt Frida
Published: November 2022

Background

The present study presents a diagnostic course for the characterization of a congenital left ventricular outpouching (LVO) in a 4-year-old boy with severe neonatal heart failure, evaluating the added value of cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) 4Dflow.

Case presentation

A boy, born at full term, presented with heart failure immediately after birth. Echocardiography showed dilated left ventricle with poor function and LVO was initially interpreted as an aneurysm. No infection, inflammation, or other cause for heart failure was found. With intensive medical treatment, the heart function returned to normal, and eventually, all medication was terminated. At follow-up, surgical treatment of the LVO was discussed but after CMR 4Dflow, a thorough evaluation of the function of the left ventricle as well as the LVO was possible and the LVO was determined a double-chambered left ventricle with a good prognosis.

Conclusions

The present case demonstrates the clinical usability of CMR 4Dflow for improved decision-making and risk assessment, revealing advanced hemodynamic flow patterns with no need for operation.
Antibiotic use in elderly patients in ambulatory care: A comparison between Hungary and Sweden
Authors: Kusuma Ikhwan Yuda , Matuz Maria , Bordás Réka , Juhasz Haverinen Maria , Bahar Muh. Akbar , Hajdu Edit , Visnyovszki Ádám , Ruzsa Roxána , Doró Péter , Engi Zsófi , Csupor Dezső , Benko Ria
Published: November 2022

Background: The elderly use antibiotics frequently due to their increasing infection susceptibility. Given the high and increasing proportion of elderly in the population, their antibiotic use is substantial. Objective: This study aimed to compare antibiotic use in the elderly in the ambulatory care sector between Hungary and Sweden.

Methods: This retrospective, descriptive, cross-national, comparative study included antibacterial use data from the Hungarian National Health Insurance Fund and the Swedish eHealth Agency. Antibiotic use (anatomical therapeutical chemical: J01) was expressed as the number of prescriptions/1000 inhabitants/year or month and was further stratified by age and sex.

Results: Antibiotic exposure was higher in the Hungarian elderly population (649.8 prescriptions/1000 inhabitants/year) compared to its Swedish counterparts (545.0 prescriptions/1000 inhabitants/year). Hungary had a similar scale of antibacterial exposure across all elderly age subgroups, with different trends in males and females, while Sweden had a stepwise increase in antibiotic exposure by age in both sexes. The seasonal fluctuation was high in Hungary and reached a peak of 80.7 prescriptions/1000 inhabitants/month in January 2017, while even antibiotic use was detected throughout the year in Sweden. The pattern of antibiotic use in the elderly considerably differed between the two countries. Penicillin and beta-lactamase combinations, such as co-amoxiclav, were more frequently used in Hungary than in Sweden (19.08% vs 1.83% of corresponding total ambulatory antibiotic use). Likewise, quinolones were more commonly used in Hungary than in Sweden (34.53% vs. 9.98). The elderly in Sweden were mostly prescribed narrow spectra penicillins (26.71% vs. 0.29% in Hungary).

Conclusion: This cross-national comparison revealed important differences in all aspects of antibiotic use in the elderly between the two countries. The identical scale and pattern of antibiotic use cannot be anticipated due to the poorer health status of the Hungarian elderly population. However, the substantial differences indicate some room for improvement in the antibiotic prescription for the Hungarian elderly.
Glycerol concentration sensor based on the MIM waveguide structure
Authors: Xu Qining , Zhu Jun
Published: November 2022

Glycerol is widely used in medicine, industry and skin care products. This study investigated a high-sensitivity glycerol concentration sensor based on double Fano resonances in a metal-insulator-metal (MIM) waveguide structure, established a coupling model of a baffle waveguide (BW) and a circular split ring resonator (CSRR), and generated asymmetric double Fano resonances in the waveguide structure. The Fano resonance transmittance reached 0.82, and the linear relationship between the refractive index (RI) and the glycerol concentration was obtained using the sensitivity of the Fano resonance spectrum. The application of the proposed sensor for glycerol concentration detection revealed that the Fano resonance wavelength was redshifted with the RI and that the sensing sensitivity reached 1153.85 nm/refractive index unit (RIU); therefore, the quick detection of the corresponding glycerol concentration can be realized. This proposed structure has significance in the research of optical sensors and optical switches.