bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of thoracic consolidative radiotherapy in the setting of immunotherapy in extensive stage small cell lung cancer
Authors: Verma Saurav , Young Sympascho , Louie Alexander V. , Palma David , Breadner Daniel
Published: August 2023

The improvement in treatment strategies and outcomes in small cell lung cancer (SCLC) has lagged behind other cancers. The addition of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), durvalumab and atezolizumab, to the platinum-based chemotherapy in frontline setting has improved the survival in extensive stage SCLC, (ES-SCLC), albeit modestly, and is now the new standard of care. Prior to advent of immunotherapy into the therapeutic armamentarium in ES-SCLC, consolidative thoracic radiotherapy (TRT) was associated with improved thoracic control and survival outcomes. In the era of ICIs, the role of TRT is not well defined, chiefly because TRT was not incorporated in any immunotherapy trials, secondly due to concerns regarding the increased risks of pneumonitis, and finally uncertain magnitude of benefit with this combined approach. In principle, radiation can increase in the immunogenicity of tumor and hence the activity of immune checkpoint blockade, thereby increasing efficacy both locally and distantly. Such an approach has been promising in non-small cell lung cancer with ICIs improving outcomes after concurrent chemoradiation, but remains unanswered in ES-SCLC. It is, thus, possible that the modest improvement in survival by addition of ICIs to chemotherapy in ES-SCLC can be further improved by the incorporation of consolidative TRT in selected patients. Several early phase trials and retrospective studies have suggested that such an approach may be feasible and safe. Prospective trials are ongoing to answer whether adding radiation therapy to chemoimmunotherapy will improve outcomes in ES-SCLC.
Diffuse Cerebral Edema With Uncal Herniation Leading to Brain Death in Patient With Fulminant Susac syndrome: Rare Complication of Rare Disease
Authors: Tsikvadze Mariam , Machado De Villafane Baltazar , Rose Mariah , Peacock Sarah , Peel Jeffrey Brent , Ng Lauren , Kramer Christopher , Freeman William D.
Published: August 2023

Susac Syndrome was first described as an inflammatory microangiopathy of the brain and retina. Since then, multiple articles have been published in attempts to improve the understanding of this rare disease. Clinically Susac Syndrome is known to present with triad of encephalopathy, sensorineural hearing loss and branch of retinal artery occlusion (BRAO), along with characteristic “snowball” or “spoke” appearing white matter lesions of the corpus callosum. It has been characterized by vast heterogeneity in terms of its presenting symptoms, severity, and clinical course. Although subset of patients present with severe forms of Susac Syndrome and can develop prominent residual neurologic deficits, it has been reported to be mostly non-life-threatening and only few fatal cases have been described in the literature. Based on the available case reports with fatal outcome, mortality has been related to the systemic complications either during acute disease flare or during chronic-progressive phase. We describe a case of fulminant Susac Syndrome complicated by the sudden and rapid progression of diffuse cerebral edema leading to brain herniation and ultimate brain death, in order to increase awareness of this rare and catastrophic complication.
Influence of Proximal Humeral Cortical Bone Thickness on the Radiographic Outcome After Osteosynthesis of Proximal Humeral Fractures: Propensity Matching Score Analysis
Authors: Furuhata Ryogo , Tanji Atsushi , Oki Satoshi , Kamata Yusaku
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Osteoporosis can affect the surgical outcomes of proximal humeral fractures in older people. Recently, the cortical bone thickness of the proximal humerus on plain radiograph has been proposed to reflect local osteoporosis of the proximal humerus; however, its effect on the surgical outcome of proximal humeral fractures remains unclear. The purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of cortical bone thickness on postoperative radiographic outcomes after osteosynthesis for proximal humeral fractures.

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively identified 190 patients (≥50 years) who underwent osteosynthesis with an intramedullary nail or plate for proximal humeral fractures. The patients were categorized into 2 groups according to the cut-off value of an average proximal humerus cortical bone thickness of 6 mm on plain radiographs: patients with and without local osteoporosis. After propensity score matching, we compared the incidence of postoperative radiographic complications between the 2 groups. We also performed subgroup analyses of outcomes in a subgroup of patients who underwent intramedullary nailing and those who underwent plate fixation.

Results

Propensity score matching yielded 60 patients in each group. No significant difference in complication rates was observed between the 2 groups. However, in the intramedullary nailing subgroup, the incidence of reduction loss was significantly higher in patients with local osteoporosis than in those without local osteoporosis (51.7% vs 14.3%, P = .002).

Discussion

The proximal humeral cortical bone thickness had no significant effect on the overall radiographic outcome; however, reduction loss after intramedullary nailing was susceptible to local osteoporosis of the proximal humerus.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that plate fixation is advantageous in preventing postoperative reduction loss in patients with lower cortical bone thickness.
Identification of Disability for Inclusive Development: Lessons from Disability Census of Kerala, India
Authors: Chanda Srei , Sekher T.V.
Published: August 2023

The identification and representation of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) has been a contentious issue due to the lack of methodological standardization. This study scrutinizes the methodological innovation made by the Indian state of Kerala for identifying PwDs in its special census on disability in 2015. The study used disability data from the 15th Census of India and the Disability Census (DC) of Kerala and used descriptive statistics to compare the two on demographic, health, social, and economic dimensions. The prevalence of disability in Kerala was found to be around 2.2% in both the censuses. However, between the two data sources, the share of different disabilities varied from 1% in the case of mental retardation to as much as 10% in the case of locomotor disability. Robust data collection in two stages by trained health professionals, incorporation of detailed categories of disabling conditions, and inclusion of a large number of dimensions in DC made it an effective survey. It is important to improve the identification of PwDs to properly address their unique needs and promote an inclusive development. Defining “mental retardation” to capture disability can be derogatory to many; however, disability in mental health has been defined as “mental retardation” and “mental illness” in the 15th round of the Census of India. As a result, these are the terms that will be used throughout the article.
Linkage Between Brand Value and Firm Performance: An Empirical Examination Using Fuzzy Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis
Authors: Bhaskaran Rajesh Kumar , Sujit Koyilathumpaday Sukumaran , Waheed Kareem Abdul
Published: August 2023

This study is designed with the data of Interbrand for ranking top 100 global brands. In this study, the linkage between brand values and financial performance was estimated using different performance measures that include both stock market and operating performance using Fuzzy Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) technique. The study investigates the effect of brand value on profitability and shareholder. It is observed that the firms that have superior operating performance result in greater brand valuation. Performance of firms measured through profitability is found to be a significant factor in brand valuation. Brand valuation is also found to be significant determinant of profitability. Thus, higher brand quality improves the likelihood of repurchases and in turn improved cash flows. Firms with high agency conflicts tend to have lower brand value. Higher market valuation positively impacts brand valuation in the context of lower leverage and agency costs. The linkage of brand value to firm performance is the justification for marketer’s investments toward branding initiatives as a mechanism that creates value. This study is the first of its kind to examine the impact of agency costs on brand value using fsQCA technique to understand valuation impact of brands. To measure the effect of branding and marketing initiatives of the firms on financial performance, this study integrated both econometric and financial modeling.
Exploring Mechanisms From Leader Consideration and Information Sharing to Follower Behavior
Authors: Kim Jeong Sik , Choi Se Kyung
Published: August 2023

In this study, we examine (1) the effect of leader consideration and information sharing on follower proactive behavior, and (2) the sequential mediating role of positive psychological capital (PsyCap) and job satisfaction. Data were collected from a pair of 369 leader-followers, with followers responding to their PsyCap, job satisfaction, and leadership style of the immediate leader while matching leaders responded to follower proactive behavior. Structural equation modeling was performed to test hypotheses. The study found that PsyCap and job satisfaction had a sequential mediating effect on the relationship between leader consideration and follower proactive behavior. In addition, leader consideration directly affects follower PsyCap, job satisfaction, and proactive behavior. This study demonstrates how leadership style ultimately influences follower behavior through followers’ positive PsyCap and attitudes. By adopting the ability-motivation-opportunity (AMO) model, we extended the theoretical understanding of the leadership influence process.
Adaptive Reuse of Historical Buildings Using ARP Model: The Case of Qishla Castle in Koya City
Authors: Mustafa Faris Ali
Published: August 2023

Preserving historical buildings is a very essential aspect as these buildings represent sociocultural indicators of the past. Historic buildings may lose their function during their life stages and become deserted. Adaptive reuse is a way to sustain a building by changing its function according to its area needs and current context. Qishla Castle is one of Koya, Iraq’s most important historical buildings. In addition to its historical and cultural status, it has an important geographic location in the city center. This paper aims to test the potentiality of reusing this historical building. The Adaptive Reuse Potentiality ARP model was applied to the Qishla Castle in Koya. To apply this model to the Qishla area, a working paper was prepared, including a set of questions to estimate building obsolescence attributes, these questions were answered based on a survey and interviews with experts. Results obtained from experts showed that the building was constructed solidly and to a high level of quality despite its obsolescence. Building physical life is estimated at 250 years, the building age is 152 years, the useful life is estimated at 161 years, ARP value is 62.24%, that is, the Qishla building has a high potential for adaptive reuse.
Territory Identity and Ritual Life of Religious Spaces in Urbanized Communities: A Case Study of Jiangsu
Authors: Li Chang , Huang Xiaohui , Yuan Yu
Published: August 2023

The rapid urbanization in China has had a profound impact on religious practices of rural communities, but few study has explored the relevant dynamics. This study provides an overview of urbanization’s impact on rural religious spaces, and compares the changes of religious spaces before and after urbanization. It aims at improving the understanding of religion in urbanized communities. Phenomenological methods were employed to analyze our transcriptions of 16 interviews which were conducted in the religious spaces of 11 urbanized communities in Jiangsu, China. We also investigated the worship circle mentioned by the participants through field surveys and map analysis. Based on these, four similar themes were sorted out, namely, worship circle and environment, aging and feminizing agents, ritual and secular life, as well as religious well-being. And the results showed that: (1) passive change of worship circles would bring new sense of belonging and identity to elderly residents; (2) the new religious spaces contained a lot of local knowledge and traditional characteristics, which were evolving continuously with sites sacredness maintenance and secularization function expansion; (3) female agents were of great importance to religious spaces preservation.
Does Your Childhood Attachment Make You Bully Your Lover? The Role of Rejection Sensitivity and Romantic Relationship Satisfaction
Authors: Choi Jungwon , Lim JungHa
Published: August 2023

Evidence has shown that insecure childhood attachment and aggression in romantic relationships in emerging adulthood are related. This study examined the psychological processes underlying this association. Based on the attachment theory and the rejection sensitivity model, this study investigated rejection sensitivity as a mediator and romantic relationship satisfaction as a moderator in the association between insecure childhood attachment to parents and relational aggression toward partners. A total of 336 college students, currently in heterosexual romantic relationships, completed self-report questionnaires. The results of the moderated mediation analysis showed that the mediating effect of rejection sensitivity on the association between insecure childhood attachment and romantic relational aggression weakened as college students were more satisfied in their romantic relationships. This finding suggests that romantic relationship satisfaction offers emerging adults protection against difficulties associated with rejection sensitivity in the link between insecure childhood attachment and romantic relational aggression.
The Decline of American Hegemony: Biden’s Foreign Policy Towards China
Authors: Guillén Arturo , Torres Iván Cortés
Published: August 2023

The capitalist crisis of the late 1960s not only revealed the end of the long postwar expansion but also the crisis of US hegemony, which entered into decline. Under neoliberal globalization, US foreign policy has positioned itself as a political instrument of hegemonic preservation in the face of the struggle for an ascending multipolar global order. With the arrival of Joe Biden to the presidency of the United States, this policy has represented a departure from the isolationist policy of Donald Trump, but it unfolds as a renewed version of “Cold War” politics, that is, an aggressive multilateralism and a “reloaded” imperialism, which far from advancing towards a multipolar order excludes and sanctions countries considered enemies of the United States and branded as authoritarian, non-democratic, or populist. The list is long and begins with China, which is defined as the strategic adversary of the United States in the twenty-first century.
Perceptions of Management Control in Post-acquisition Integration Context Through Sense-making: An Interpretive Case Study
Authors: Teittinen Henri , Pellinen Jukka , Järvenpää Marko
Published: August 2023

The purpose of this qualitative case study was to explore perceptions of a management control system (MCS) in a post-acquisition integration context through sense-making using interpretive case study methodology. The study draws from the theories of the two types of bureaucratic formalization, sense-making in organizations and MCSs. The study material consists of semi-structured interviews with the managers at the corporate, divisional, and business unit levels. At the time of the study, the case company was growing through several acquisitions per year, which created constant challenges with post-acquisition integration and a need for more formal MCS. The article shows how the backgrounds of the acquired business units are related to the perceptions of the MCS. We found that the identity threat and retrospection were properties of sense-making that explained the business unit managers’ attitudes towards the corporate MCS. Particularly prior experiences of production-centred line-manager positions in small entrepreneurial firms seem to foster coercive perceptions of MCS. The results of this study contribute to MCS literature.
A Process Model of Combining Life Trauma and Life Passion into Cultural Entrepreneurship: A Case Study of Art-Shelter Bunker Theatre
Authors: Aljanova Nurlykhan , Yessekeyeva Emina , Ernst Yerkinay
Published: August 2023

A case study of Art-Shelter Bunker theatre explores the fascinating story of how a traumatic event, a dog bite, inspired the creation of a successful theatre company. Drawing on a narrative inquiry approach, we examine the personal experiences and reflections of the theatre company’s founder, who, after being bitten by a dog, underwent a profound transformation that ultimately led to the creation of a unique and impactful theatre company. Our examination underscores the significance of trauma and resilience within the dynamic model of the creative process, underscoring the crucial role that personal narrative plays in shaping artistic expression. Through this inquiry, we hope to better understand the complex and multifaceted relationship between personal experience, trauma, and creativity.
Matkasym: An Entrepreneurial Journey from Bazaar to Factory
Authors: kyzy Bermet Talasbek , uulu Talant Asan , Ryskulov Urmat
Published: August 2023

This case study examines the entrepreneurial journey of Ubai Matkasymov and his company, Matkasym. Started as a small shop in a bazaar in Kyrgyzstan, the company grew rapidly to become within six years the country’s leading manufacturer of goods made from metal sheets. Three key transition events that led to the company’s success are highlighted: tapping into the digital television switch by adoption of reverse engineering, establishing a relative distinction with the large Safe City Project and dominating the supply of key goods during COVID-19. Based on his decision-making patterns during times of uncertainty, a comment is made on Matkasymov’s entrepreneurial characteristics, such as his clear vision, curiosity and risk-taking. The study provides insights into how an entrepreneur with a venturesome approach can seize opportunities to build a competitive advantage and transform a small business into a successful manufacturing enterprise.
Fitting a Hearing Aid on the Better Ear, Worse Ear, or Both: Associations of Hearing-aid Fitting Laterality with Outcomes in a Large Sample of US Veterans
Authors: Zobay Oliver , Naylor Graham , Saunders Gabrielle H. , Dillard Lauren K.
Published: August 2023

Longitudinal electronic health records from a large sample of new hearing-aid (HA) recipients in the US Veterans Affairs healthcare system were used to evaluate associations of fitting laterality with long-term HA use persistence as measured by battery order records, as well as with short-term HA use and satisfaction as assessed using the International Outcome Inventory for Hearing Aids (IOI-HA), completed within 180 days of HA fitting. The large size of our dataset allowed us to address two aspects of fitting laterality that have not received much attention, namely the degree of hearing asymmetry and the question of which ear to fit if fitting unilaterally. The key findings were that long-term HA use persistence was considerably lower for unilateral fittings for symmetric hearing loss (HL) and for unilateral worse-ear fittings for asymmetric HL, as compared to bilateral and unilateral better-ear fittings. In contrast, no differences across laterality categories were observed for short-term self-reported HA usage. Total IOI-HA score was poorer for unilateral fittings of symmetric HL and for unilateral better-ear fittings compared to bilateral for asymmetric HL. We thus conclude that bilateral fittings yield the best short- and long-term outcomes, and while unilateral and bilateral fittings can result in similar outcomes on some measures, we did not identify any HL configuration for which a bilateral fitting would lead to poorer outcomes. However, if a single HA is to be fitted, then our results indicate that a better-ear fitting has a higher probability of long-term HA use persistence than a worse-ear fitting.
Magnitude and Severity of Depression and Associated Factors Among Hypertensive Patients Attending Follow-up Treatment at Public Hospitals of Hadiya Zone, Ethiopia
Authors: Nigusu Elias , Ermias Ruhama , Abose Selamu , Ezo Elias , Gebre Solomon , Mezgebu Taye
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Co-morbid depression in hypertension leads to non-adherence to anti-hypertensive treatment.

Objective

To assess the magnitude and severity of depression and associated factors among hypertensive patients attending follow-up treatment at public hospitals of Hadiya zone, Ethiopia, 2022.

Methods

Hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from January 1, to January 31, 2022. The total sample size was 315 and used a systematic random sampling technique. Data were collected through a face-to-face interview. Data were entered using Epi-data Version 4.6 and exported to SPSS Version 25 for analysis. The goodness-of-fit test was done. Binary logistic regression was done, and variables with a p-value of < .25 in the bivariable analysis were taken into the multivariable analysis. Statistically significant was declared at a p-value of < .05 with an adjusted odds ratio and 95% confidence interval.

Result

The magnitude of depression among hypertensive patients was 37.1% (95% CI 31.7–43.9). Regarding the severity, 56.1% had no depression, 6.7% had mild, 17.3% had moderate, 14.7% had moderately severe, and 5.1% had severe depression. Body mass index: 19.12–24.9 kg/m2 [AOR 0.06, 95% CI: 0.02–0.23], body mass index: 25–29.9 kg/m2 [AOR 0.08, 95% CI: 0.02–0.35], absence of family history hypertension [AOR 0.39, 95% CI: 0.18–0.85], presence of co-morbidity [AOR 2.43, 95% CI: 1.34–4.42), low perceived stress scale [AOR 0.07, 95% CI: 0.01–0.56], low medication adherence [AOR 2.70, 95% CI: 1.17–6.24], and moderate medication adherence [AOR 0.29, 95% CI: 0.09–0.88] were significantly associated.

Conclusion

About four in 10 hypertensive patients attending follow-up treatment were depressed. The mean score of severity of depression was mild. Body mass index, family history of hypertension, co-morbidity, perceived stress scale, and medication adherence were significantly associated with depression. Therefore, maintaining body mass index, screening and treating co-morbid illness, accommodating stress, and educating about medication adherence might minimize the risk of depression.
Clinician and patient experiences of managing and living with oral and dental manifestations of scleroderma: A scoping review
Authors: Mills Tyler J , Price Elizabeth , Aggarwal Vishal R , Del Galdo Francesco , Walker Liz
Published: August 2023

Oral and dental manifestations of scleroderma are extremely common, yet they are often overlooked within rheumatology and poorly understood within dentistry. Previous research has indicated the need to understand the oral and dental experiences of people living with scleroderma and those involved in their care. This scoping review aims, for the first time, to comprehensively map what is known regarding the identification and management of oral and dental manifestations of scleroderma, how these are experienced by people living with scleroderma, and to explore key characteristics of barriers and enablers to good oral and dental care in scleroderma. A scoping review was conducted using six databases (Embase, PubMed, PsychINFO, ASSIA, Scopus and SSCI), according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses – extension for Scoping Review. Grey literature was also included. Studies were eligible for inclusion if the full text and abstract were available in English, published between 2002 and 2022, and focused on the concept of oral and dental care in adults with scleroderma, either relating to identification and management, enablers and barriers to best practice, or patient experiences and well-being. Qualitative research which seeks to understand patients’ lived experiences was a notable gap in the literature. Similarly, there was a significant lack of focus on the oral and dental manifestations of scleroderma in rheumatology. Three key features were identified which would facilitate best practice in research and clinical contexts: the necessity of multidisciplinary care; the necessity of centralising patient experience; and the necessity of mitigating barriers to dental care. We conclude that increased awareness of scleroderma within dentistry and streamlining referral procedures between the disciplines of dentistry and rheumatology, to enable the early identification and management of scleroderma, are crucial.
The Making of Two Intellectuals: Caste, Epistemology and the Question of Dissent
Authors: Neelima B
Published: August 2023

Caste has an unspeakable presence in the ‘Kerala model’ development discourse. Over the years, Dalits have countered the upper-caste imagination of Kerala. The discontent with the popular imagination of Kerala started to gain momentum in the 1980s and 1990s. By then, the less privileged groups, such as women and Dalits, found reasons to contest the false promises of a modern secular society and the principles of socialist ideology. The study focuses on the intellectual engagements of two Dalit intellectuals from Kerala. K. K. Kochu and M. Kunjaman trace their epistemological framework through dissent and disagreement. Their discontent creates a rift in the hegemonic discourses produced by upper castes, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) in Kerala and other power structures. K. K. Kochu’s Dalithan (Dalit) and M. Kunjaman’s Ethiru (Dissent) are two autobiographical accounts that map out the intellectual life of these two prominent public figures.
Lack of a Dedicated Focus on Dalit in Corporate Social Responsibility Projects: A Qualitative Exploration of Mandated CSR in India
Authors: Bihari Avadh
Published: August 2023

The concepts of caste discrimination and corporate social responsibility are not novel. They have existed for decades in social, political and academic discourses, albeit as separate concepts. Notably, how CSR engages with Dalit issues in India has not been explored, especially in mandated CSR. This article explores why corporates do not cater devoutly to the needs of Dalits in CSR projects. The article adopts a qualitative approach to interviewing participants from corporates, NGOs and external consultants from research and academic organizations. The author adopted the thematic analysis method and arrived at four major themes about the lack of a dedicated focus on Dalits in CSR projects. These are corporate boards’ caste-blindness, the design of CSR projects, the adoption of the umbrella target category—‘poor’ and the changing character of NGOs. These findings suggest larger structural issues with the way CSR projects are planned, designed and implemented, excluding the scheduled castes (SC). The findings underline a glaring gap and the need for corporates to understand the issues faced by SCs, resulting in inequality, poverty and socioeconomic exclusion. There is a crucial need for corporates to direct, design and implement their CSR projects with a dedicated focus on empowering the Dalit population.
Book review: Mukul Sharma, Caste and Nature: Dalits and Indian Environmental Politics
Authors: Deivanayagam Sindu
Published: August 2023

Mukul Sharma, Caste and Nature: Dalits and Indian Environmental Politics. Delhi: Oxford Academic, 2018, 336 pp., ₹1,100. https://doi.org/10.1093/oso/9780199477562.001.0001
Lineage-specific detection of residual disease predicts relapse in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia stopping therapy
Authors: Pagani Ilaria S. , Shanmuganathan Naranie , Dang Phuong , Saunders Verity A. , Grose Randall , Kok Chung H. , James Jane , Tolland Molly , Braley Jodi A. , Altamura Haley K. , Yeung David T. , Branford Susan , Yong Agnes S. M. , Hughes Timothy P. , Ross David M.
Published: August 2023

Patients with chronic myeloid leukemia who are eligible for treatment-free remission (TFR) may still relapse after tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) cessation. There is a need for accurate predictors of outcome to enable patients with a favorable profile to proceed while avoiding futile attempts. Sensitive detection of residual disease in total leukocytes at treatment cessation is associated with relapse but is not highly discriminatory, likely because it is a composite measure of residual leukemia derived from different cell lineages, whereas only some lineages are relevant for relapse. We prospectively measured BCR::ABL1 DNA as a predictive yes/no binary test in 5 cellular fractions from 48 patients meeting conventional criteria for TKI discontinuation. The median BCR::ABL1 DNA level was higher in granulocytes and T cells, but not in other lineages, in patients who relapsed. Among the 40 patients undergoing their first TFR attempt, we defined 3 groups with differing relapse risk: granulocyte-positive group (100%), granulocyte-negative/T-cell–positive group (67%), and granulocyte-negative /T-cell–negative group (25%). These data show the critical importance of lineage-specific assessment of residual disease in the selection of patients who can attempt to achieve TFR with a high expectation of success and, concurrently, defer patients who have a high probability of relapse.
Novel QTL for Lateral Root Density and Length Improve Phosphorus Uptake in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Dinh Lam Thi , Ueda Yoshiaki , Gonzalez Daniel , Tanaka Juan Pariasca , Takanashi Hideki , Wissuwa Matthias
Published: August 2023

The rice root system consists of two types of lateral roots, indeterminate larger L-types capable of further branching, and determinate, short, unbranched S-types. L-type laterals correspond to the typical lateral roots of cereals whereas S-type laterals are unique to rice. Both types contribute to nutrient and water uptake and genotypic variation for density and length of these laterals could be exploited in rice improvement to enhance adaptations to nutrient and water-limited environments. Our objectives were to determine how best to screen for lateral root density and length and to identify markers linked to genotypic variation for these traits. Using different growing media showed that screening in nutrient solution exposed genotypic variation for S-type and L-type density, but only the lateral roots of soil-grown plants varied for their lengths. A QTL mapping population developed from parents contrasting for lateral root traits was grown in a low-P field, roots were sampled, scanned and density and length of lateral roots measured. One QTL each was detected for L-type density (LDC), S-type density on crown root (SDC), S-type density on L-type (SDL), S-type length on L-type (SLL), and crown root number (RNO). The QTL for LDC on chromosome 5 had a major effect, accounting for 46% of the phenotypic variation. This strong positive effect was confirmed in additional field experiments, showing that lines with the donor parent allele atqLDC5had 50% higher LDC. Investigating the contribution of lateral root traits to P uptake using stepwise regressions indicated LDC and RNO were most influential, followed by SDL. Simulating effects of root trait differences conferred by the main QTL in a P uptake model confirmed thatqLDC5was most effective in improving P uptake followed byqRNO9for RNO andqSDL9for S-type lateral density on L-type laterals. PyramidingqLDC5withqRNO9andqSDL9would be possible given that trade-offs between traits were not detected. Phenotypic selection for the RNO trait during variety development would be feasible, however, the costs of doing so reliably for lateral root density traits is prohibitive and markers identified here therefore provide the first opportunity to incorporate such traits into a breeding program.
Comparing pharmaceutical persistence across terrestrial and aquatic environments: do studies according to OECD 307 and OECD 308 lead to similar outcomes?
Authors: Berkner Silvia , Brandt Ute
Published: August 2023

Information on transformation and persistence of chemical substances in the environment is important for hazard and risk assessment within a regulatory context or as a decision criterion in a safe and sustainable by design framework. Half-lives for human and veterinary medicinal products available from marketing authorization applications were compared between soil (OECD 307) and aquatic water/sediment systems (OECD 308). The comparison shows, that there is no obvious correlation between the total system half-lives in the two different compartments and that surpassing persistence criteria is compartment-specific in 45% of the cases.
Sensitivity of CNN image analysis to multifaceted measurements of neurite growth
Authors: Vecchi Joseph T. , Mullan Sean , Lopez Josue A. , Rhomberg Madeline , Yamamoto Annamarie , Hallam Annabelle , Lee Amy , Sonka Milan , Hansen Marlan R.
Published: August 2023

Quantitative analysis of neurite growth and morphology is essential for understanding the determinants of neural development and regeneration, however, it is complicated by the labor-intensive process of measuring diverse parameters of neurite outgrowth. Consequently, automated approaches have been developed to study neurite morphology in a high-throughput and comprehensive manner. These approaches include computer-automated algorithms known as 'convolutional neural networks' (CNNs)—powerful models capable of learning complex tasks without the biases of hand-crafted models. Nevertheless, their complexity often relegates them to functioning as 'black boxes.' Therefore, research in the field of explainable AI is imperative to comprehend the relationship between CNN image analysis output and predefined morphological parameters of neurite growth in order to assess the applicability of these machine learning approaches. In this study, drawing inspiration from the field of automated feature selection, we investigate the correlation between quantified metrics of neurite morphology and the image analysis results from NeuriteNet—a CNN developed to analyze neurite growth. NeuriteNet accurately distinguishes images of neurite growth based on different treatment groups within two separate experimental systems. These systems differentiate between neurons cultured on different substrate conditions and neurons subjected to drug treatment inhibiting neurite outgrowth. By examining the model's function and patterns of activation underlying its classification decisions, we discover that NeuriteNet focuses on aspects of neuron morphology that represent quantifiable metrics distinguishing these groups. Additionally, it incorporates factors that are not encompassed by neuron morphology tracing analyses. NeuriteNet presents a novel tool ideally suited for screening morphological differences in heterogeneous neuron groups while also providing impetus for targeted follow-up studies.
Genome-wide analysis of the HSP20 gene family and its response to heat and drought stress in Coix (Coix lacryma-jobi L.)
Authors: Hua Yangguang , Liu Qiao , Zhai Yufeng , Zhao Limin , Zhu Jinjian , Zhang Xiaodan , Jia Qiaojun , Liang Zongsuo , Wang Dekai
Published: August 2023

Background

Heat shock protein 20 (HSP20) is a member of the heat stress-related protein family, which plays critical roles in plant growth, development, and response to abiotic stresses. Although many HSP20 genes have been associated with heat stress in numerous types of plants, little is known about the details of the HSP20 gene family in Coix. To investigate the mechanisms of the ClHSP20 response to heat and drought stresses, the ClHSP20 gene family in Coix was identified and characterized based on genome-wide analysis.

Results

A total of 32 putative ClHSP20 genes were identified and characterized in Coix. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that ClHSP20s were grouped into 11 subfamilies. The duplicated event analysis demonstrated that tandem duplication and segment duplication events played crucial roles in promoting the expansion of the ClHSP20 gene family. Synteny analysis showed that Coix shared the highest homology in 36 HSP20 gene pairs with wheat, followed by 22, 19, 15, and 15 homologous gene pairs with maize, sorghum, barley, and rice, respectively. The expression profile analysis showed that almost all ClHSP20 genes had different expression levels in at least one tissue. Furthermore, 22 of the 32 ClHSP20 genes responded to heat stress, with 11 ClHSP20 genes being significantly upregulated and 11 ClHSP20 genes being significantly downregulated. Furthermore, 13 of the 32 ClHSP20 genes responded to drought stress, with 6 ClHSP20 genes being significantly upregulated and 5 ClHSP20 genes being significantly downregulated.

Conclusions

Thirty-two ClHSP20 genes were identified and characterized in the genome of Coix. Tandem and segmental duplication were identified as having caused the expansion of the ClHSP20 gene family. The expression patterns of the ClHSP20 genes suggested that they play a critical role in growth, development, and response to heat and drought stress. The current study provides a theoretical basis for further research on ClHSP20s and will facilitate the functional characterization of ClHSP20 genes.
Implementation and review of the care ecosystem in an integrated healthcare system
Authors: Rosenbloom Michael H. , Kashyap Bhavani , Diaz-Ochoa Ana , Karrmann Jan , Svitak Aleta , Finstad Jennifer , Brombach Ann , Sprandel Ann , Hanson Leah , Dulaney Sarah , Possin Katherine
Published: August 2023

Background and objectives

The University of California, San Francisco Memory and Aging Center (UCSF-MAC) led the development and tested a collaborative care model delivered by lay care team navigators (CTNs) with support from a multidisciplinary team known as the Care Ecosystem (CE). We evaluated outcomes related to the feasibility of the CE in a non-academic healthcare system, including acceptability, adoption, and fidelity to the original UCSF model.

Research Design and methods

The CE team at HealthPartners consisted of two CTNs, a social worker, an RN, a program coordinator, and a behavioral neurologist. Intake forms were developed to collect demographic, baseline, and annual data at one year related to dementia severity and caregiver status. Experience surveys were completed at 6 and 12 months by participating caregivers. All data was entered into REDCap.

Results

A total of 570 PWD-caregiver dyads were recruited into the CE: 53% PWDs female, average age 75.2 ± 9.43, 19% living within rural communities. Of the 173 dyads assessed at one year, 30% responded to the annual intake forms and 58% of responded to experience surveys. At one year, PWDs progressed in disease severity and functional impairment, although caregiver burden and mood remained unchanged. We observed a significant reduction in caregiver reported emotional challenges associated with caregiving, sleep problems, and obtaining caregiver help at one year. 86% of caregivers reported feeling supported by their CTN nearly always or quite frequently, and 88% rated the CTN as highly responsive to what was important to them.

Discussion and implications

The CE was feasible and well-received within a non-academic healthcare system.
Association of mitochondrial DNA copy number with chronic kidney disease in older adults
Authors: Liu Yang , Pan Ying , Tian Zijian , Wang Jing , Chen Fei , Geng Zhaoxu , Li Qian , Liu Ziqing , Zhou Xiaozhou , Zhou Kaixin
Published: August 2023

Background

Mitochondrial dysfunction in kidney cells has been implicated in the pathogenesis of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Estimation of mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtDNA-CN) is considered a convenient method for representing mitochondrial function in large samples. However, no study has investigated the association between mtDNA-CN and CKD in older adults with the highest prevalence. The objective is to examine cross-sectional and prospective associations between mtDNA-CN values and CKD risk in older adults to determine whether mtDNA-CN represents a novel potential biomarker for the recognition of CKD risk.

Patients and methods

In a Chinese community-based cohort of over 65-year-olds, we included 14,467 participants (52.6% females). CKD was defined by eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 or ICD-10 codes (patients = 3831 (26.5%)). Participants had peripheral blood levels of mtDNA-CN calculated from probe intensities of the Axiom CAS Array.

Results

The risk of CKD prevalence decreased with mtDNA-CN per 1-SD increment, independent of established risk factors for older CKD (odds ratio [OR] per SD 0.90, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.86, 0.93, P < 0.001), and has comparable strength of association with these established risk factors. Furthermore, the progression of kidney function was stratified according to the worsening of eGFR categories. The risk of kidney function progression to a more severe stage gradually decreased as the mtDNA-CN increased (P trend < 0.001). Non-CKD participants in the highest quartile of mtDNA-CN had a lower risk of developing CKD compared to the lowest quartile within 2 years of follow-up, reducing the risk of CKD by 36% (95% CI 0.42, 0.97; P = 0.037).

Conclusions

Based on the analysis of the largest sample to date investigating the association between mtDNA-CN and CKD in older adults, higher levels of mtDNA-CN were found to be associated with a lower risk of CKD, suggesting that a reduced level of mtDNA-CN is a potential risk factor for CKD.
The differential value of radiomics based on traditional T1-weighted sequences in newborns with hyperbilirubinemia
Authors: Sun Yan , Liao Yi , Jia Fenglin , Ning Gang , Wang Xinrong , Zhang Yujin , Li Pei , Qu Haibo
Published: August 2023

Background

On the basis of visual-dependent reading method, radiological recognition and assessment of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia (NH) or acute bilirubin encephalopathy (ABE) on conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequences are challenging. Prior studies had shown that radiomics was possible to characterize ABE-induced intensity and morphological changes on MRI sequences, and it has emerged as a desirable and promising future in quantitative and objective MRI data extraction. To investigate the utility of radiomics based on T1-weighted sequences for identifying neonatal ABE in patients with hyperbilirubinemia and differentiating between those with NH and the normal controls.

Methods

A total of 88 patients with NH were enrolled, including 50 patients with ABE and 38 ABE-negative individuals, and 70 age-matched normal neonates were included as controls. All participants were divided into training and validation cohorts in a 7:3 ratio. Radiomics features extracted from the basal ganglia of T1-weighted sequences on magnetic resonance imaging were evaluated and selected to set up the prediction model using the K-nearest neighbour-based bagging algorithm. A receiver operating characteristic curve was plotted to assess the differentiating performance of the radiomics-based model.

Results

Four of 744 radiomics features were selected for the diagnostic model of ABE. The radiomics model yielded an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.81 and 0.82 in the training and test cohorts, with accuracy, precision, sensitivity, and specificity of 0.82, 0.80, 0.91, and 0.69 and 0.78, 0.8, 0.8, and 0.75, respectively. Six radiomics features were selected in this model to distinguish those with NH from the normal controls. The AUC for the training cohort was 0.97, with an accuracy of 0.92, a precision of 0.92, a sensitivity of 0.93, and a specificity of 0.90. The performance of the radiomics model was confirmed by testing the test cohort, and the AUC, accuracy, precision, sensitivity, and specificity were 0.97, 0.92, 0.96, 0.89, and 0.95, respectively.

Conclusions

The proposed radiomics model based on traditional TI-weighted sequences may be used effectively for identifying ABE and even differentiating patients with NH from the normal controls, which can provide microcosmic information beyond experience-dependent vision and potentially assist in clinical diagnosis and treatment.
Acute kidney injury after infant cardiac surgery: a comparison of pRIFLE, KDIGO, and pROCK definitions
Authors: Gao Peng , He Wang , Jin Yu , Zhou Chun , Zhang Peiyao , Wang Wenting , Hu Jinxiao , Liu Jinping
Published: August 2023

Background

KDIGO and pRIFLE classifications are commonly used in pediatric acute kidney injury (AKI). As a novel AKI definition, pROCK considered the high variability of serum creatinine in children. This study aimed to compare the above three definitions for AKI in infants undergoing cardiac surgery.

Methods

We analyzed a clinical cohort of 413 infants undergoing cardiac surgery. AKI was defined and staged according to pRIFLE, KDIGO, and pROCK, respectively. Incidence differences and diagnostic agreement across definitions were assessed. The association between postoperative outcomes and AKI by each definition was investigated.

Results

Postoperative AKI was identified in 185 (44.8%), 160 (38.7%), and 77 (18.6%) patients according to pRIFLE, KDIGO, and pROCK, respectively. The agreement between pRIFLE and KDIGO was almost perfect (κ = 0.88), while there was only a slight agreement between pROCK and them. AKI by pROCK was independently associated with adverse outcomes (p = 0.003) and prolonged mechanical ventilation (p = 0.002).

Conclusions

There were considerable differences in AKI incidence and staging among definitions. Compared with pRIFLE and KDIGO, AKI defined by pROCK was significantly reduced and better associated with postoperative adverse outcomes.
Development and validation of a facile rapid assessment scale for perinatal venous thromboembolism in puerperium in Chinese women
Authors: Chen Xiujuan , Peng Wei , Zhang Yan , Zhou Huansheng , Zhang Meng
Published: August 2023

Background

It is still urgent and challenge to develop a simple risk assessment scale for venous thromboembolism (VTE) in puerperium in Chinese women.

Methods

The study, a retrospective case-control study, was conducted in 12 hospitals in different cities in China. A total of 1152 pregnant women were selected, including 384 cases with VTE and 768 cases without VTE. A logistic regression method was conducted to determine the risk factors of VTE.

Results

Age, BMI before delivery, gestational diabetes mellitus, family history (thrombosis, diabetes, cardiovascular disease), and assisted reproductive technology were independent risk factors (P<0.05). The difference between the high-risk group and the low-risk group was statistically significant(P<0.001) with a sensitivity of 0.578, specificity of 0.756, Yuden index o.334, and area under the ROC curve of 0.878.

Conclusions

The age (≥ 35 years), BMI before delivery (≥ 30 kg/m2), gestational diabetes mellitus, family history of related diseases and assisted reproductive technology are more likely to cause VTE after full-time delivery. The simple and rapid assessment scale of VTE in women after full-term delivery has perfect discrimination (P < 0.001), which can be applied to predict the risk of VTE in Chinese full-term postpartum women.