bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Case report: Efficacy of icotinib treatment in lung adenocarcinoma with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: a rare case of double primary malignant tumors
Authors: Deng Min , Li Xiaoqing , Mu Honghao , Wei Man , Sun Lan
Published: March 2024

Background

Lung adenocarcinoma with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma is rare and the prognosis is poor, therefore there is an urgent need to improve this situation. The objective of this study was to explore the effect of first-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) in the patient of the double primary malignant tumors.

Case report

We report a case of lung adenocarcinoma with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma treated by icotininb after five-year follow-up. A 71-year-old Chinese woman complaining of swallowing obstruction, heartburn, regurgitation of gastric acid for more than 2 months. An esophageal lesion was found by chest CT scans in T7 vertebral level. The diagnosis by gastroscopic biopsy was squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) with EGFR over-expression. Simultaneously, chest CT showed a 2 cm x 1 cm solitary lesion in the right superior pulmonary. The histological diagnosis by percutaneous lung Biopsy was “adenocarcinoma.” Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene mutation status was evaluated by Sanger sequencing, and an exon 21 point mutation (L858R) was identified. When the double primary malignant tumors were diagnosed, the patient refused operation and received a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), icotinib, at the dose of 125 mg, three times per day. All serum tumor biomarkers such as CEA and cancer antigen 125 (CA125) were in the normal range during the treatment period. After five-year follow-up, the patient has no evidence of recurrence or metastasis. The lung cancer was stable, meanwhile the esophageal lesion was almost cured.

Conclusion

Icotininb is an effective treatment in the patients of the double primary malignant tumors of lung adenocarcinoma with EGFR gene mutation and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma with EGFR over-expression.
Physician’s autonomy in the face of AI support: walking the ethical tightrope
Authors: Funer Florian , Wiesing Urban
Published: March 2024

The introduction of AI support tools raises questions about the normative orientation of medical practice and the need to rethink its basic concepts. One of these concepts that is central to the discussion is the physician’s autonomy and its appropriateness in the face of high-powered AI applications. In this essay, a differentiation of the physician’s autonomy is made on the basis of a conceptual analysis. It is argued that the physician’s decision-making autonomy is a purposeful autonomy. The physician’s decision-making autonomy is fundamentally anchored in the medical ethos for the purpose to promote the patient’s health and well-being and to prevent him or her from harm. It follows from this purposefulness that the physician’s autonomy is not to be protected for its own sake, but only insofar as it serves this end better than alternative means. We argue that today, given existing limitations of AI support tools, physicians still need physician’s decision-making autonomy. For the possibility of physicians to exercise decision-making autonomy in the face of AI support, we elaborate three conditions: (1) sufficient information about AI support and its statements, (2) sufficient competencies to integrate AI statements into clinical decision-making, and (3) a context of voluntariness that allows, in justified cases, deviations from AI support. If the physician should fulfill his or her moral obligation to promote the health and well-being of the patient, then the use of AI should be designed in such a way that it promotes or at least maintains the physician’s decision-making autonomy.
Skin barrier-inflammatory pathway is a driver of the psoriasis-atopic dermatitis transition
Authors: Dong Sitan , Li Dongmei , Shi Dongmei
Published: March 2024

As chronic inflammatory conditions driven by immune dysregulation are influenced by genetics and environment factors, psoriasis and atopic dermatitis (AD) have traditionally been considered to be distinct diseases characterized by different T cell responses. Psoriasis, associated with type 17 helper T (Th17)-mediated inflammation, presents as well-defined scaly plaques with minimal pruritus. AD, primarily linked to Th2-mediated inflammation, presents with poorly defined erythema, dry skin, and intense itching. However, psoriasis and AD may overlap or transition into one another spontaneously, independent of biological agent usage. Emerging evidence suggests that defects in skin barrier-related molecules interact with the polarization of T cells, which forms a skin barrier-inflammatory loop with them. This loop contributes to the chronicity of the primary disease or the transition between psoriasis and AD. This review aimed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying skin barrier defects in driving the overlap between psoriasis and AD. In this review, the importance of repairing the skin barrier was underscored, and the significance of tailoring biologic treatments based on individual immune status instead of solely adhering to the treatment guidelines for AD or psoriasis was emphasized.
Drug-induced hypersensitivity syndrome related to piperacillin-tazobactam: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Shen Ya , Cui Shun-shun , Teng Xiao-bao , Han Ming-feng
Published: March 2024

Allergic reactions to drugs caused by piperacillin-tazobactam are common in clinical practice. However, we also found a few cases of drug-induced hypersensitivity syndrome (DiHS)/Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) caused by piperacillin-tazobactam in our clinical work. We report a case of a 60-year-old female patient who was treated with piperacillin-tazobactam anti-infective therapy after the diagnosis of hematogenous lung abscess, developed fever, rash, and blood abnormalities after 26 days of application, and was later diagnosed as DIHS, which was improved after the administration of glucocorticoid and anti-allergic drugs. In addition, we also retrospectively analyzed 17 cases of DiHS caused by piperacillin-tazobactam from the PubMed databases between March 1980 and September 2023. The majority of the patients had an incubation period of more than 14 days, and the common clinical features included elevated eosinophil count/percentage, fever, rash, liver damage, and lymph node enlargement. After treatment with topical or systemic glucocorticoids, 16 of the 17 patients improved and one died because of the underlying condition. The clinical features of DiHS were diverse and included a long incubation period, skin rash, elevated eosinophils, and impaired organ function. Since some patients have atypical clinical features, clinicians should raise awareness of the disease, recognize these features early, and treat them promptly.
High synthetic cost-amino acids reduce member interactions of acetate-degrading methanogenic microbial community
Authors: Yao Jian , Zhang Quan , Gou Min , Tang Yue-Qin
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The cooperation among members of microbial communities based on the exchange of public goods such as 20 protein amino acids (AAs) has attracted widespread attention. However, little is known about how AAs availability affects interactions among members of complex microbial communities and the structure and function of a community.

Methods

To investigate this question, trace amounts of AAs combinations with different synthetic costs (low-cost, medium-cost, high-cost, and all 20 AAs) were supplemented separately to acetate-degrading thermophilic methanogenic reactors, and the differences in microbial community structure and co-occurring networks of main members were compared to a control reactor without AA supplementation.

Results

The structure of the microbial community and the interaction of community members were influenced by AAs supplementation and the AAs with different synthetic costs had different impacts. The number of nodes, links, positive links, and the average degree of nodes in the co-occurrence network of the microbial communities with AAs supplementation was significantly lower than that of the control without AAs supplementation, especially for all 20 AAs supplementation followed by the medium- and high-cost AAs supplementation. The average proportion of positive interactions of microbial members in the systems supplemented with low-cost, medium-cost, high-cost, all AAs, and the control group were 0.42, 0.38, 0.15, 0.4, and 0.45, respectively. In addition, the ecological functions of community members possibly changed with the supplementation of different cost AAs.

Discussion

These findings highlight the effects of AAs availability on the interactions among members of complex microbial communities, as well as on community function.
A reinforcement learning enhanced pseudo-inverse approach to self-collision avoidance of redundant robots
Authors: Hong Tinghe , Li Weibing , Huang Kai
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Redundant robots offer greater flexibility compared to non-redundant ones but are susceptible to increased collision risks when the end-effector approaches the robot's own links. Redundant degrees of freedom (DoFs) present an opportunity for collision avoidance; however, selecting an appropriate inverse kinematics (IK) solution remains challenging due to the infinite possible solutions.

Methods

This study proposes a reinforcement learning (RL) enhanced pseudo-inverse approach to address self-collision avoidance in redundant robots. The RL agent is integrated into the redundancy resolution process of a pseudo-inverse method to determine a suitable IK solution for avoiding self-collisions during task execution. Additionally, an improved replay buffer is implemented to enhance the performance of the RL algorithm.

Results

Simulations and experiments validate the effectiveness of the proposed method in reducing the risk of self-collision in redundant robots.

Conclusion

The RL enhanced pseudo-inverse approach presented in this study demonstrates promising results in mitigating self-collision risks in redundant robots, highlighting its potential for enhancing safety and performance in robotic systems.
Posterior circulation collaterals as predictors of outcome in basilar artery occlusion: a sub-analysis of the BASICS randomized trial
Authors: Lima Fabricio O. , Rocha Felipe A. , Silva Henrique C. , Puetz Volker , Dippel Diederik , van den Wijngaard Ido , Majoie Charles , Yoo Albert J. , van Zwam Wim , de Lucena Adson F. , Bandeira Diego De Almeida , Arndt Martin , Barlinn Kristian , Gerber Johannes C. , Langezaal Lucianne C. M. , Schonewille Wouter J. , Pontes Neto Octávio M. , Dias Francisco Antunes , Martins Sheila Ouriques , Mont’Alverne Francisco José de A.
Published: March 2024

Introduction and purpose

Basilar artery occlusion (BAO) is still one of the most devastating neurological conditions associated with high morbidity and mortality. In the present study, we aimed to assess the role of posterior circulation collaterals as predictors of outcome in the BASICS trial and to compare two grading systems (BATMAN score and PC-CS) in terms of prognostic value.

Methods

We performed a sub-analysis of the BASICS trial. Baseline clinical and imaging variables were analyzed. For the imaging analysis, baseline CT and CTA were analyzed by a central core lab. Only those patients with good or moderate quality of baseline CTA and with confirmed BAO were included. Multivariable binary logistic regression analysis was used to test the independent association of clinical and imaging characteristics with a favorable outcome at 3 months (defined as a modified Rankin Score of ≤3). ROC curve analysis was used to assess and compare accuracy between the two collateral grading systems.

Results

The mean age was 67.0 (±12.5) years, 196 (65.3%) patients were males and the median NIHSS was 21.5 (IQR 11–35). Median NCCT pc-ASPECTS was 10 (IQR10-10) and median collateral scores for BATMAN and PC-CS were 8 (IQR 7–9) and 7 (IQR 6–8) respectively. Collateral scores were associated with favorable outcome at 3 months for both BATMAN and PC-CS but only with a modest accuracy on ROC curve analysis (AUC 0.62, 95% CI [0.55–0.69] and 0.67, 95% CI [0.60–0.74] respectively). Age (OR 0.97, 95% CI [0.95–1.00]), NIHSS (OR 0.91, 95% CI [0.89–0.94]) and collateral score (PC-CS – OR 1.2495% CI [1.02–1.51]) were independently associated with clinical outcome.

Conclusion

The two collateral grading systems presented modest prognostic accuracy. Only the PC-CS was independently associated with a favorable outcome at 3 months.
Peripapillary hyperreflective ovoid mass-like structures: multimodal imaging and associated diseases
Authors: Xiao Di , Lhamo Tsering , Meng Yang , Xu Yishuang , Chen Changzheng
Published: March 2024

Growing evidence has demonstrated that peripapillary hyperreflective ovoid mass-like structures (PHOMS) are novel structures rather than a subtype of optic disc drusen. They correspond to the laterally bulging herniation of optic nerve fibers and are believed to be the marker of axoplasmic stasis. PHOMS present in a broad spectrum of diseases, including optic disc drusen, tilted disc syndrome, papilloedema, multiple sclerosis, non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, optic neuritis, Leber hereditary optic neuropathy, and so on. We focus on the multimodal imaging features, pathophysiological mechanisms of PHOMS, and their association with multiple diseases and healthy people in this review to deepen the ophthalmologists' understanding of PHOMS. Additionally, we provide some new directions for future research.
Variation in emotion dynamics over time is associated with future relationship outcomes
Authors: Johal Simran K. , Ferrer Emilio
Published: March 2024

Romantic relationships are defined by emotion dynamics, or how the emotions of one partner at a single timepoint can affect their own emotions and the emotions of their partner at the next timepoint. Previous research has shown that the level of these emotion dynamics plays a role in determining the state and quality of the relationship. However, this research has not examined whether the estimated emotion dynamics change over time, and how the change in these dynamics might relate to relationship outcomes, despite changes in dynamics being likely to occur. We examined whether the magnitude of variation in emotion dynamics over time was associated with relationship outcomes in a sample of 148 couples. Time-varying vector autoregressive models were used to estimate the emotion dynamics for each couple, and the average and standard deviation of the dynamics over time was related to relationship quality and relationship dissolution 1–2 years later. Our results demonstrate that certain autoregressive and cross-lagged parameters do show significant variation over time, and that this variation is associated with relationship outcomes. Overall, this study demonstrates the importance of accounting for change in emotion dynamics over time, and the relevance of this change to the prediction of future outcomes.
Second malignant neoplasms within 5 years from first primary diagnosis in pediatric oncology patients in Canada: a population-based retrospective cohort study
Authors: Ricci Christina , Subburaj Divya , Lim Kate , Shukla Neetu , Kaur Jaskiran , Xie Lin , Laverty Meghan , Zakaria Dianne , Pole Jason , Pelland-Marcotte Marie-Claude , Barber Randy , Israels Sara J. , Tran Thai-Hoa , Oberoi Sapna , Renzi Samuele , MacDonald Tamara , Sung Lillian , Kulkarni Ketan
Published: March 2024

Introduction

From the advancement of treatment of pediatric cancer diagnosis, the five-year survival rate has increased significantly. However, the adverse consequence of improved survival rate is the second malignant neoplasm. Although previous studies provided information on the incidence and risk of SMN in long term survivors of childhood cancer, there is still scarce information known for short term (< 5 years) prognosis. This study aims to assess the incidence, characteristics, management, and outcome of children who develop SMN malignancies within 5 years of diagnosis of their initial cancer.

Method

This is a retrospective cohort study of early Second Malignant Neoplasms (SMN) in pediatric oncology patients. The Cancer in Young People – Canada (CYP-C) national pediatric cancer registry was used and reviewed pediatric patients diagnosed with their first cancer from 2000-2015.

Results

A total of 20,272 pediatric patients with a diagnosis of a first malignancy were analyzed. Of them, 0.7% were diagnosed with a SMN within the first 5 years following their first cancer diagnosis. Development of a SMN impacted survival, shown by an inferior survival rate in the SMN cohort (79.1%) after three years compared to that of the non-SMN cohort (89.7%). Several possible risk factors have been identified in the study including the use of epipodophyllotoxins, exposure to radiation, and hematopoietic stem cell 169 transplant.

Discussion

This is the first national study assessing the incidence, 170 characteristics, risk factors and outcome of early SMN in Canadian children 171 from age 0-15 from 2000-2015.
Inhibitory effect of aloperine on transient outward potassium currents in rat cardiac myocytes
Authors: Dong Xiao-Na , Li Meng-Ting
Published: March 2024

Objective:

Aloperine (ALO) is an effective quinolizidine alkaloid. Previous research has demonstrated its antiarrhythmic effect by inhibiting voltage-gated sodium currents in rat ventricular myocytes. This study explored its effect on transient outward potassium currents (Ito) in rat atrial myocytes to identify potential targets in the context of ion channel currents.

Methods:

The Ito characteristics in rat atrial myocytes were recorded using a whole-cell patch-clamp technique. Molecular docking was performed to validate ligand-protein binding interactions.

Results:

ALO at concentrations of 3 and 10 μM significantly reduced Ito current densities. Gating kinetics analysis revealed ALO’s ability to slow Ito activation, hasten inactivation, and prolong transition from inactive to resting state. Molecular docking revealed that ALO could stably bind to KCND2.

Conclusion:

ALO may inhibit Ito by slowing the activation process, accelerating inactivation, and delaying the recovery time after inactivation, potentially preventing acetylcholine-induced AF.
Spraying performance and deposition characteristics of an improved air-assisted nozzle with induction charging
Authors: Zhou Huitao , Ou Mingxiong , Dong Xiang , Zhou Wang , Dai Shiqun , Jia Weidong
Published: March 2024

Electrostatic spraying technology can improve the efficiency of pesticide deposition on the surface of leaves and reduce the environmental pollution caused by pesticide drift, which has an important prospect in agricultural pesticide application. To improve the deposition and penetration of droplets in the crop canopy, we designed and optimized an air-assisted electrostatic nozzle and conducted the spraying performance experiment. Parameters, such as charge-to-mass ratio (CMR) and particle size, were tested and analyzed to obtain the suitable operating parameters of nozzle. The results proved that the improved air-assisted electrostatic nozzle has good atomization and chargeability. There is a good charging effect with a charging voltage of 3,000–5,000 V, the CMR increased 127.8% from 0.86 to 1.97 mC/kg as the charge voltage increases from 1,000 to 4,000 V, at an air pressure of 1.0 bar and liquid flow rate of 200 ml/min. Furthermore, we designed a multi-factor orthogonal experiment, which was conducted using a four-factor, three-level design to investigate the effects of operational parameters and canopy characteristics on droplet deposition and penetration. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and F-test were performed on the experiment results. The results showed that the factor effect on droplet penetration, in descending order, was as follows: spray distance, leaf area index, air pressure, and air pressure × spray distance. The factor effect on abaxial leaf deposition, in descending order, was as follows: air pressure, spray distance, air pressure × charge voltage, spray distance × charge voltage, and charge voltage. For optimal droplet penetration and abaxial leaf deposition, option A3B1D2 (air pressure 1.5 bar, spray distance 0.2 m, charge voltage 2,500 V) is recommend. The spray nozzle atomization performance and deposition regulation were studied by experimental methods to determine the optimal values of operating parameters to provide a reference for electrostatic spray system development.
Psychotherapeutic approaches: hopefully, globally effective
Authors: Howe Edmund
Published: March 2024

Many patients have lasting disorders due, for example, to excessive and chronic childhood stress. For these patients, certain psychotherapeutic approaches may be maximally effective, and this may be universally the case. This piece is intended to give providers optimal tools for reaching and helping these patients who, otherwise, may remain among those worst off. These interventions should enhance patients’ trust, the quintessential precondition for enabling these patients to change. Specific interventions discussed include anticipating ambiguity and clarifying this before ambiguity occurs, therapists indicating that they will support patients’ and families’ wants over their own views, feeling and disclosing their emotions, validating patients’ anger, laughing, going beyond usual limits, explaining why, asking before doing, discussing religion and ethics, and informing whenever this could be beneficial.
Effectiveness and implementation of lower-intensity weight management interventions delivered by the non-specialist workforce in postnatal women: a mixed-methods systematic review
Authors: Fong Mackenzie , Kenny Ryan Patrick William , Thomson Katie , Jesurasa Amrita , Lavans Amber , Patterson Maddey , Sermin-Reed Letitia , Nguyen Giang , Aquino Maria Raisa Jessica , Cullen Emer , O'Keefe Hannah , Moffat Malcolm , Heslehurst Nicola
Published: March 2024

Lower-intensity interventions delivered in primary and community care contacts could provide more equitable and scalable weight management support for postnatal women. This mixed-methods systematic review aimed to explore the effectiveness, implementation, and experiences of lower-intensity weight management support delivered by the non-specialist workforce. We included quantitative and qualitative studies of any design that evaluated a lower-intensity weight management intervention delivered by non-specialist workforce in women up to 5 years post-natal, and where intervention effectiveness (weight-related and/or behavioural outcomes), implementation and/or acceptability were reported. PRISMA guidelines were followed, and the review was prospectively registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022371828). Nine electronic databases were searched to identify literature published between database inception to January 2023. This was supplemented with grey literature searches and citation chaining for all included studies and related reviews (completed June 2023). Screening, data extraction and risk of bias assessments were performed in duplicate. Risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute appraisal tools. Narrative methods were used to synthesise outcomes. Seven unique studies described in 11 reports were included from the Netherlands (n = 2), and the United Kingdom, Germany, Taiwan, Finland, and the United States (n = 1 each). All studies reported weight-related outcomes; four reported diet; four reported physical activity; four reported intervention implementation and process outcomes; and two reported intervention acceptability and experiences. The longest follow-up was 13-months postnatal. Interventions had mixed effects on weight-related outcomes: three studies reported greater weight reduction and/or lower postnatal weight retention in the intervention group, whereas four found no difference or mixed effects. Most studies reporting physical activity or diet outcomes showed no intervention effect, or mixed effects. Interventions were generally perceived as acceptable by women and care providers, although providers had concerns about translation into routine practice. The main limitations of the review were the limited volume of evidence available, and significant heterogeneity in interventions and outcome reporting which limited meaningful comparisons across studies. There is a need for more intervention studies, including process evaluations, with longer follow-up in the postnatal period to understand the role of primary and community care in supporting women’s weight management. Public Health Wales was the primary funder of this review.
Prevalence of risky sexual behavior and associated factors among Injibara University students, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Adal Mekdes Abera , Abiy Saron Abeje , Reta Mebratu Mitiku , Asres Mezgebu Silamsaw , Animut Yaregal
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Engaging in risky sexual behaviors can lead to HIV infection, sexually transmitted infections, and unintended pregnancy among youths. University students had greater sexual risks for many reasons. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the magnitude and associated factors of risky sexual behaviors among regular undergraduate students at Injibara University, Northwest Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted at Injibara University from 20 January to 30 2020. Multistage sampling was employed to select 770 students. Data were collected using a semistructured self-administered questionnaire. A binary logistic regression model was used to identify factors associated with risky sexual behavior. Adjusted odds ratios with 95% CIs were determined, and variables with P-values <0.05 were considered significant.

Result

A total of 770 students participated in the study, providing a response rate of 100%. In this study, 294 (38%, 95% CI: 35%, 42%) students engaged in risky sexual behaviors. Risky sexual behavior was significantly associated with not tested for HIV (AOR = 1.62, 95% CI: 1.15–2.31), peer pressure (AOR = 1.90, CI: 1.37–2.64), basic HIV knowledge (AOR = 2.16, CI: 1.65–2.89), substance use (AOR = 3.56, CI: 2.11–6.06), watching pornography videos (AOR = 1.58, CI: 1.11–2.23), and HIV risk perception (AOR = 1.37, CI: 1.02–1.91).

Conclusion and recommendation

A substantial proportion of university students in this study engaged in unsafe sexual behavior. Risky sexual behaviors are more likely to occur when students are under peer pressure, use substances, have no perceived HIV risk, watch pornography, and have inadequate basic HIV knowledge. Therefore, tailored strategic interventions such as life skill training should be designed to bring about positive behavioral changes among university students.
In vitro aging alters the gene expression and secretome composition of canine adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Prišlin Marina , Butorac Ana , Bertoša Rea , Kunić Valentina , Ljolje Ivana , Kostešić Petar , Vlahović Dunja , Naletilić Šimun , Turk Nenad , Brnić Dragan
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Canine adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (cAD-MSCs) hold therapeutic promise due to their regenerative potential, particularly within their secretome. However, concerns arise regarding the impact of in vitro cultivation necessitated for storing therapeutic doses, prompting this study to comprehensively explore the impact of in vitro aging on gene expression and secretome composition.

Methods

The study involved collecting abdominal adipose tissue samples from nine healthy female dogs, from which cAD-MSCs were extracted and cultured. Stem cells were validated through trilineage differentiation assays and flow cytometry immunophenotyping. Gene expression profiling using RT-qPCR array, and cAD-MSCs secretome LC-MS/MS analysis, were conducted at passages 3 and 6 to reveal gene expression and protein composition alterations during in vitro culture.

Results and Discussion

The results demonstrate that the gene expression and secretome composition of cAD-MSCs were impacted by in vitro aging. Among many alterations in gene expression between two passages, two significant downregulations were noted in the MSC-associated PTPRC and IL10 genes. While the majority of proteins and their functional characteristics were shared between passages, the influence of cell aging on secretome composition is highlighted by 10% of proteins being distinctively expressed in each passage, along with 21 significant up- and downregulations. The functional attributes of proteins detected in passage 3 demonstrated a greater inclination towards supporting the regenerative capacity of cAD-MSCs. Moreover, proteins in passage 6 exhibited a noteworthy correlation with the blood coagulation pathway, suggesting an elevated likelihood of coagulation events. To the best of our knowledge, this study presents the first original perspective on the changes in secretome composition that occur when cAD-MSCs age in vitro. Furthermore, it contributes to broadening the currently restricted knowledge base concerning the secretome of cAD-MSCs. In conclusion, our findings show that the regenerative potential of cAD-MSCs, as well as their secretome, may be compromised by in vitro aging. Therefore, our study suggests a preference for earlier passages when considering these cells for therapeutic applications.
Intestinal Langerhans cell histiocytosis presenting with symptoms similar to inflammatory bowel disease: a case report
Authors: Liu Yuqing , Chen Zhenwei , Wang Lu , Li Baizhou
Published: March 2024

Background:

Langerhans cell histiocytosis is a rare disease characterized by the abnormal proliferation of Langerhans cells within a single organ or multiple organs. This case report aims to improve the knowledge of the presentation of gastrointestinal Langerhans cell histiocytosis to facilitate the diagnosis and management of this rare disorder.

Case presentation:

A 19-month-old female presented with repeatedly mucinous bloody stools. The abdominal ultrasound revealed a slightly enlarged spleen. The initial colonoscopy revealed chronic enteritis with a very early onset inflammatory bowel disease. After anti-inflammatory treatment without improvement, an intestinal biopsy was performed at The Forth Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University. The final intestinal biopsy and histopathology examination confirmed the presence of Langerhans cell histiocytosis. After diagnosis, additional lung and head imaging examinations revealed no abnormalities. Her condition improved gradually after being treated with chemotherapy (vincristine and prednisone) and molecular-targeted drug(dalafinil) treatment.

Conclusion:

The clinical symptoms of Langerhans cell histiocytosis involving the gastrointestinal tract are not specific and may resemble symptoms observed in inflammatory bowel disease and other primary gastrointestinal tumors. Therefore, in cases of infants presenting with inflammatory gastrointestinal symptoms that do not resolve after treatment, a biopsy is essential to obtain a differential diagnosis.
A Multi-Fidelity Uncertainty Propagation Model for Multi-Dimensional Correlated Flow Field Responses
Authors: Chen Jiangtao , Zhao Jiao , Xiao Wei , Lv Luogeng , Zhao Wei , Wu Xiaojun
Published: March 2024

Given the randomness inherent in fluid dynamics problems and limitations in human cognition, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling and simulation are afflicted with non-negligible uncertainties, casting doubts on the credibility of CFD. Scientifically and rigorously quantifying the uncertainty of CFD is paramount for assessing its credibility and informing engineering decisions. In order to quantify the uncertainty of multidimensional flow field responses stemming from uncertain model parameters, this paper proposes a method based on Gappy Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (POD) for supplementing high-fidelity flow field data within a framework that leverages POD and surrogate models. This approach enables the generation of corresponding high-fidelity flow fields from low-fidelity ones, significantly reducing the cost of high-fidelity flow field computation in uncertainty propagation modeling. Through an analysis of the impact of uncertainty in the coefficients of the Spalart–Allmaras (SA) turbulence model on the distribution of wall friction coefficients for the NACA0012 airfoil and pressure coefficients for the M6 wing, the proposed multi-fidelity modeling approach is demonstrated to offer significant advancements in both accuracy and efficiency compared to single-fidelity methods, providing a robust and efficient prediction model for large-scale random sampling.
Three-Dimensional Microfibrous Scaffold with Aligned Topography Produced via a Combination of Melt-Extrusion Additive Manufacturing and Porogen Leaching for In Vitro Skeletal Muscle Modeling
Authors: Spedicati Mattia , Zoso Alice , Mortati Leonardo , Chiono Valeria , Marcello Elena , Carmagnola Irene
Published: March 2024

Skeletal muscle tissue (SMT) has a highly hierarchical and anisotropic morphology, featuring aligned and parallel structures at multiple levels. Various factors, including trauma and disease conditions, can compromise the functionality of skeletal muscle. The in vitro modeling of SMT represents a useful tool for testing novel drugs and therapies. The successful replication of SMT native morphology demands scaffolds with an aligned anisotropic 3D architecture. In this work, a 3D PCL fibrous scaffold with aligned morphology was developed through the synergistic combination of Melt-Extrusion Additive Manufacturing (MEAM) and porogen leaching, utilizing PCL as the bulk material and PEG as the porogen. PCL/PEG blends with different polymer ratios (60/40, 50/50, 40/60) were produced and characterized through a DSC analysis. The MEAM process parameters and porogen leaching in bi-distilled water allowed for the development of a micrometric anisotropic fibrous structure with fiber diameters ranging from 10 to 100 µm, depending on PCL/PEG blend ratios. The fibrous scaffolds were coated with Gelatin type A to achieve a biomimetic coating for an in vitro cell culture and mechanically characterized via AFM. The 40/60 PCL/PEG scaffolds yielded the most homogeneous and smallest fibers and the greatest physiological stiffness. In vitro cell culture studies were performed by seeding C2C12 cells onto a selected scaffold, enabling their attachment, alignment, and myotube formation along the PCL fibers during a 14-day culture period. The resultant anisotropic scaffold morphology promoted SMT-like cell conformation, establishing a versatile platform for developing in vitro models of tissues with anisotropic morphology.
Can Asiatic Acid from Centella asiatica Be a Potential Remedy in Cancer Therapy?—A Review
Authors: Wiciński Michał , Fajkiel-Madajczyk Anna , Kurant Zuzanna , Gajewska Sandra , Kurant Dominik , Kurant Marcin , Sousak Masaoud
Published: March 2024

Centella asiatica has been recognized for centuries in Eastern medicine for its pharmacological properties. Due to the increasing prevalence of oncological diseases worldwide, natural substances that could qualify as anticancer therapeutics are becoming increasingly important subjects of research. This review aims to find an innovative use for asiatic acid (AA) in the treatment or support of cancer therapy. It has been demonstrated that AA takes part in inhibiting phosphorylation, inducing cell death, and reducing tumor growth and metastasis by influencing important signaling pathways, such as PI3K, Akt, mTOR, p70S6K, and STAT3, in cancer cells. It is also worth mentioning the high importance of asiatic acid in reducing the expression of markers such as N-cadherin, β-catenin, claudin-1, and vimentin. Some studies have indicated the potential of asiatic acid to induce autophagy in cancer cells through changes in the levels of specific proteins such as LC3 and p62. It can also act as an anti-tumor immunotherapeutic agent, thanks to its inductive effect on Smad7 in combination with naringenin (an Smad3 inhibitor). It seems that asiatic acid may be a potential anticancer drug or form of adjunctive therapy. Further studies should take into account safety and toxicity issues, as well as limitations related to the pharmacokinetics of AA and its low oral bioavailability.
Pediatric Acute Mastoiditis in Saudi Arabia: Demographic Insights, Clinical Profiles, and Prognostic Factors
Authors: Alshehri Sarah , Alahmari Khalid A.
Published: March 2024

Acute mastoiditis, a complication of otitis media, poses significant challenges in diagnosis and treatment, particularly in pediatric populations. This study aims to comprehensively evaluate the demographic characteristics, clinical features, and prognostic factors associated with acute mastoiditis in pediatric patients in Saudi Arabia. Analysis of a multicenter dataset was conducted to assess demographic variables, symptomatology, disease course, and predictors of acute mastoiditis in pediatric patients. Significant associations were found between demographic variables (age group, gender, nationality) and acute mastoiditis risk. Symptomatology analysis revealed consistent frequencies of otalgia across age groups and genders. Disease course analysis highlighted a mean duration from symptom onset to diagnosis of 14.11 days, with frequent complications like mastoid abscess and meningitis. Predictor identification identified symptoms (otalgia, fever, otorrhea), duration of illness, and complications as significant predictors of disease severity. These findings contribute valuable insights into the epidemiology and clinical management of acute mastoiditis, informing targeted interventions to improve patient outcomes.
Development of an Environmental DNA Assay for Prohibited Matter Weed Amazon Frogbit (Limnobium laevigatum)
Authors: Zhu Xiaocheng , Bell Karen L. , Wu Hanwen , Gopurenko David
Published: March 2024

Environmental DNA (eDNA) is widely used for detecting target species, including monitoring endangered species and detecting the presence of invasive species. Detecting targeted species using the eDNA approach is typically carried out with species-specific qPCR assays. Amazon frogbit (Limnobium laevigatum) is classified as a State-Prohibited Matter Weed in NSW, Australia. It is a fast-growing perennial aquatic weed that outcompetes native aquatic plants, leading to a reduction in the habitats of aquatic animals. Early detection is crucial for the effective management of this species. In this study, we developed a qPCR assay for L. laevigatum based on the rpoB gene sequence. This assay was validated against 25 non-target aquatic and terrestrial species. It was found to be species-specific, with the positive signal exclusively detected in L. laevigatum. The assay was highly sensitive with the modelled detection limits of 3.66 copies of DNA/µL. Furthermore, our assay was validated using environmental samples collected from field sites with and without the presence of L. laevigatum. Our assay is an effective tool for targeted eDNA detection of L. laevigatum, which will enhance efforts to monitor and control this invasive aquatic weed.
Assessment of Sequential Yeast Inoculation for Blackcurrant Wine Fermentation
Authors: Wang Zhuoyu , Svyantek Andrej , Miller Zachariah , Watrelot Aude A.
Published: March 2024

Blackcurrant is well known for its health benefits, but its wine products are understudied. In this research, studies were conducted after non-Saccharomyces and Saccharomyces yeast strain inoculation in less than 20% (w/v) fruit must for blackcurrant fermentation. Three inoculations were carried out on blackcurrant musts, as follows: (1) sequential inoculation with Torulaspora delbrueckii (strain Biodiva) followed by Saccharomyces EC1118 strain; (2) sequential inoculation with Metschnikowia pulcherimma (strain Flavia) followed by EC1118; (3) single-strain inoculation with EC1118 as the control treatment. None of these treatments did alter sugar consumption dynamics. Biodiva inoculation had impacts on both color dynamic parameter changes and final wine color profiles compared to EC1118. The final wine compositions indicate that Biodiva treatment had a significant impact on wine pH and acidity, whereas EC1118 single-strain largely influenced wine ethanol and glycerol contents. Although the total antioxidant capabilities were close among the three produced wines, the monophenol profiles indicate that Biodiva enhanced the total anthocyanin and hydroxycinnamates content but reduced the total flavanol contents in the final wine. EC1118 and Flavia wines contained more total flavanols compared to Biodiva treatment. The nonflavonoid profiles indicate that there were no significant differences among the three treatments. Our findings provide useful information for the application of yeast strains in blackcurrant wine fermentation.
Glass Beads Test with True Triaxial Stress Path Achieved by Conventional Triaxial Apparatus
Authors: Li Xuefeng , Ma Jiahui , Lv Longlong
Published: March 2024

The impact of fabric anisotropy, fractal dimension, and breakage on the strength and deformation of granular materials were diminished by uniform-size spherical glass beads. Triaxial drained and undrained tests were performed on glass beads based on a novel method to substitute true triaxial stress paths with conventional triaxial apparatus equivalents with varying intermediate principal stress coefficients (b-values). The result indicates that all specimens manifested a noticeable strain-softening phenomenon. The peak strength decreased with increasing b-value, and the specimens showed more pronounced dilatancy. This pattern is similar to the results of the true triaxial test in current research. Compared to the undrained test, the peak friction angle in the drained test displayed a greater variation with varying b-values, which indicated that the mechanical response of glass beads is sensitive to water. This difference provides experimental evidence for comprehending effective stress in granular materials with constant friction coefficients. The experiments reflect the effect of b-value changes on the p-q stress path, as well as on the peak stress ratio, the state transition stress ratio, and the critical state stress ratio. The specimens exhibited a distinct shear band at different b-values ranging from 0.2 to 0.6, which is different from observations in conventional triaxial tests for granular materials.
Fundamental Matrix, Integral Representation and Stability Analysis of the Solutions of Neutral Fractional Systems with Derivatives in the Riemann—Liouville Sense
Authors: Kiskinov Hristo , Milev Mariyan , Cholakov Slav Ivanov , Zahariev Andrey
Published: March 2024

The paper studies a class of nonlinear disturbed neutral linear fractional systems with derivatives in the the Riemann–Liouville sense and distributed delays. First, it is proved that the initial problem for these systems with discontinuous initial functions under some natural assumptions possesses a unique solution. The assumptions used for the proof are similar to those used in the case of systems with first-order derivatives. Then, with the obtained result, we derive the existence and uniqueness of a fundamental matrix and a generalized fundamental matrix for the homogeneous system. In the linear case, via these fundamental matrices we obtain integral representations of the solutions of the homogeneous system and the corresponding inhomogeneous system. Furthermore, for the fractional systems with Riemann–Liouville derivatives we introduce a new concept for weighted stabilities in the Lyapunov, Ulam–Hyers, and Ulam–Hyers–Rassias senses, which coincides with the classical stability concepts for the cases of integer-order or Caputo-type derivatives. It is proved that the zero solution of the homogeneous system is weighted stable if and only if all its solutions are weighted bounded. In addition, for the homogeneous system it is established that the weighted stability in the Lyapunov and Ulam–Hyers senses are equivalent if and only if the inequality appearing in the Ulam–Hyers definition possess only bounded solutions. Finally, we derive natural sufficient conditions under which the property of weighted global asymptotic stability of the zero solution of the homogeneous system is preserved under nonlinear disturbances.
A Quasilinearization Approach for Identification Control Vectors in Fractional-Order Nonlinear Systems
Authors: Koleva Miglena N. , Vulkov Lubin G.
Published: March 2024

This paper is concerned with solving the problem of identifying the control vector problem for a fractional multi-order system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations (ODEs). We describe a quasilinearization approach, based on minimization of a quadratic functional, to compute the values of the unknown parameter vector. Numerical algorithm combining the method with appropriate fractional derivative approximation on graded mesh is applied to SIS and SEIR problems to illustrate the efficiency and accuracy. Tikhonov regularization is implemented to improve the convergence. Results from computations, both with noisy-free and noisy data, are provided and discussed. Simulations with real data are also performed.
Evaluation of the Swelling Properties and Sorption Capacity of Maltodextrin-Based Cross-Linked Polymers
Authors: Cecone Claudio , Hoti Gjylije , Caldera Fabrizio , Ginepro Marco , Matencio Adrián , Trotta Francesco
Published: March 2024

The development of polymers obtained from renewable sources such as polysaccharides has gained scientific and industrial attention. Cross-linked bio-derived cationic polymers were synthesized via a sustainable approach exploiting a commercial maltodextrin product, namely, Glucidex 2®, as the building block, while diglycidyl ethers and triglycidyl ethers were used as the cross-linking agents. The polymer products were characterized via FTIR-ATR, TGA, DSC, XRD, SEM, elemental analysis, and zeta-potential measurements, to investigate their composition, structure, and properties. Polydispersed amorphous granules displaying thermal stabilities higher than 250 °C, nitrogen contents ranging from 0.8 wt % and 1.1 wt %, and zeta potential values between 10 mV and 15 mV were observed. Subsequently, water absorption capacity measurements ranging from 800% to 1500%, cross-linking density determination, and rheological evaluations demonstrated the promising gel-forming properties of the studied systems. Finally, nitrate, sulfate, and phosphate removal tests were performed to assess the possibility of employing the studied polymer products as suitable sorbents for water remediation. The results obtained from the ion chromatography technique showed high sorption rates, with 80% of nitrates, over 90% of sulfates, and total phosphates removal.
Corn Rootworm: Biology, Ecology, Behavior, and Integrated Management
Authors: Meinke Lance J. , Spencer Joseph L.
Published: March 2024

Species of the beetle genus Diabrotica (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) are native to North and South America, with their greatest diversity occurring in neotropical areas [...]