bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Establishment of a DNA-free genome editing and protoplast regeneration method in cultivated tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
Authors: Liu Ying , Andersson Mariette , Granell Antonio , Cardi Teodoro , Hofvander Per , Nicolia Alessandro
Published: June 2022

Key message

We have established a DNA-free genome editing method via ribonucleoprotein-based CRISPR/Cas9 in cultivated tomato and obtained mutant plants regenerated from transfected protoplasts with a high mutation rate.

The application of genome editing as a research and breeding method has provided many possibilities to improve traits in many crops in recent years. In cultivated tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), so far only stable Agrobacterium-mediated transformation carrying CRISPR/Cas9 reagents has been established. Shoot regeneration from transfected protoplasts is the major bottleneck in the application of DNA-free genome editing via ribonucleoprotein-based CRISPR/Cas9 method in cultivated tomato. In this study, we report the implementation of a transgene-free breeding method for cultivated tomato by CRISPR/Cas9 technology, including the optimization of protoplast isolation and overcoming the obstacle in shoot regeneration from transfected protoplasts. We have identified that the shoot regeneration medium containing 0.1 mg/L IAA and 0.75 mg/L zeatin was the best hormone combination with a regeneration rate of up to 21.3%. We have successfully obtained regenerated plants with a high mutation rate four months after protoplast isolation and transfection. Out of 110 regenerated M0 plants obtained, 35 (31.8%) were mutated targeting both SP and SP5G genes simultaneously and the editing efficiency was up to 60% in at least one allele in either SP or SP5G genes.
Phantom-based correction for standardization of myocardial native T1 and extracellular volume fraction in healthy subjects at 3-Tesla cardiac magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Suh Young Joo , Kim Pan Ki , Park Jinho , Park Eun-Ah , Jung Jung Im , Choi Byoung Wook
Published: June 2022

Objectives

To investigate the effect of the phantom-based correction method for standardizing myocardial native T1 and extracellular volume fraction (ECV) in healthy subjects.

Methods

Seventy-one healthy asymptomatic adult (≥ 20 years) volunteers of five different age groups (34 men and 37 women, 45.5 ± 15.5 years) were prospectively enrolled in three academic hospitals. Cardiac MRI including Modified Look - Locker Inversion recovery T1 mapping sequence was performed using a 3-Tesla system with a different type of scanner for each hospital. Native T1 and ECV were measured in the short-axis T1 map and analyzed for mean values of the 16 entire segments. The myocardial T1 value of each subject was corrected based on the site-specific equation derived from the T1 Mapping and ECV Standardization phantom. The global native T1 and ECV were compared between institutions before and after phantom-based correction, and the variation in native T1 and ECV among institutions was assessed using a coefficient of variation (CoV).

Results

The global native T1 value significantly differed between the institutions (1198.7 ± 32.1 ms, institution A; 1217.7 ± 39.9 ms, institution B; 1232.7 ± 31.1 ms, institution C; p = 0.002), but the mean ECV did not (26.6–27.5%, p = 0.355). After phantom-based correction, the global native T1 and ECV were 1289.7 ± 32.4 ms and 25.0 ± 2.7%, respectively, and CoV for native T1 between the three institutions decreased from 3.0 to 2.5%. The corrected native T1 value did not significantly differ between institutions (1284.5 ± 31.5 ms, institution A; 1296.5 ± 39.1 ms, institution B; 1291.3 ± 29.3 ms, institution C; p = 0.440), and neither did the ECV (24.4–25.9%, p = 0.078).

Conclusions

The phantom-based correction method can provide standardized reference T1 values in healthy subjects.

Key Points

• After phantom-based correction, the global native T1 of 16 entire myocardial segments on 3-T cardiac MRI is 1289.4 ± 32.4 ms, and the extracellular volume fraction was 25.0 ± 2.7% for healthy subjects.

• After phantom - based correction was applied, the differences in the global native T1 among institutions became insignificant, and the CoV also decreased from 3.0 to 2.5%.
The impact of anastomotic leak on long-term oncological outcomes after low anterior resection for mid-low rectal cancer: extended follow-up of a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Bao Quoc Riccardo , Pellino Gianluca , Spolverato Gaya , Restivo Angelo , Deidda Simona , Capelli Giulia , Ruffolo Cesare , Bianco Francesco , Cuicchi Dajana , Jovine Elio , Lombardi Raffaele , Belluco Claudio , Amato Antonio , La Torre Filippo , Asteria Corrado , Infantino Aldo , Contardo Tania , Del Bianco Paola , Delrio Paolo , Pucciarelli Salvatore
Published: June 2022

Purpose

The impact of anastomotic leaks (AL) on oncological outcomes after low anterior resection for mid-low rectal cancer is still debated. The aim of this study was to evaluate overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), and local and distant recurrence in patients with AL following low anterior resection.

Methods

This is an extension of a multicentre RCT (NCT01110798). Kaplan–Meier method and the log-rank test were used to estimate and compare the 3-, 5-, and 10-year OS and DFS, and local and distant recurrence in patients with and without AL. Predictors of OS and DFS were evaluated using the Cox regression analysis as secondary aim.

Results

Follow-up was available for 311 patients. Of them, 252 (81.0%) underwent neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy and 138 (44.3%) adjuvant therapy. AL occurred in 63 (20.3%) patients. At a mean follow-up of 69.5 ± 31.9 months, 23 (7.4%) patients experienced local recurrence and 49 (15.8%) distant recurrence. The 3-, 5-, and 10-year OS and DFS were 89.2%, 85.3%, and 70.2%; and 80.7%, 75.1%, and 63.5% in patients with AL, and 88.9%, 79.8% and 72.3%; and 83.7, 74.2 and 62.8%, respectively in patients without (p = 0.89 and p = 0.84, respectively). At multivariable analysis, AL was not an independent predictor of OS (HR 0.65, 95%CI 0.34–1.28) and DFS (HR 0.70, 95%CI 0.39–1.25), whereas positive circumferential resection margins and pathological stage impaired both.

Conclusions

In the context of modern multimodal rectal cancer treatment, AL does not affect long-term OS, DFS, and local and distant recurrence in patients with mid-low rectal cancer.
Cryogenic transmission electron microscopy for observation of monomer protrusions that emerge during formation of dumbbell-shaped polymer colloids
Authors: Stuckert Rouven , Krumova Marina , Wittemann Alexander
Published: June 2022

Anisotropic particles exhibit directional interactions resulting in a rich phase behavior. Considerable efforts have thus been invested in guiding particle synthesis into an anisotropic direction. Dumbbell-shaped polymer particles are one of the most remarkable examples. They result from phase separation during seeded polymerization. The underlying mechanism and thermodynamic principles are understood from its proximal end. Segregation of monomer and seed particle results in a monomer protrusion attached to the seed. Polymerization of the protrusion finally yields particles with two bulb-shaped halves. Little attention has been paid to an investigation of transient states, namely the formation of liquid protrusions grown from monomer-swollen seeds. This study demonstrates that cryogenic transmission electron microscopy is an excellent tool for mapping transient states within colloidal objects. Swelling of polymer particles and formation of liquid protrusions mediated by a surface coating on the seeds is explored for styrene and methyl-methacrylate at different temperatures and monomer-to-seed volume ratios.

Graphical Abstract

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Surgical anatomy of the lingual nerve for palate surgery: where is located and how to avoid it
Authors: Garaycochea Octavio , Baptista Peter , Calvo-Imirizaldu Marta , Terrasa David , Moffa Antonio , Casale Manuele , Alcalde Juan , O’Connor-Reina Carlos , Plaza Guillermo , Fernández Secundino
Published: June 2022

Purpose

To describe the anatomic relationship of the lingual nerve with the lateral oropharyngeal structures.

Methods

An anatomic dissection of the lateral oropharyngeal wall was conducted in eight sides from four fresh-frozen cadaveric heads. Small titanium clips were placed along the lingual nerve and the most anterior and medial border of the medial pterygoid muscle. Radiological reconstructions were employed for optimal visualization; the coronal view was preferred to resemble the surgical position. The distance between the lingual nerve and the medial pterygoid muscle at its upper and lower portion was measured radiologically. The trajectory angle of the lingual nerve with respect to the pterygomandibular raphe was obtained from the intersection between the vector generated between the clips connecting the upper and lower portion of the medial pterygoid muscle with the vector generated from the lingual nerve clips.

Results

The mean distance from the upper portion of the medial pterygoid muscle and superior lingual nerve clips was 10.16 ± 2.18 mm (mean ± standard deviation), and the lower area of the medial pterygoid muscle to the lingual nerve was separated 5.05 ± 1.49 mm. The trajectory angle of the lingual nerve concerning to the vector that describes the upper portion of the most anterior and medial border of the medial pterygoid muscle with its lower part was 43.73º ± 11.29.

Conclusions

The lingual nerve runs lateral to the lateral oropharyngeal wall, from superiorly–inferiorly and laterally–medially, and it is closer to it at its lower third.
Stage I and II Small-Cell Lung Cancer—New Challenge for Surgery
Authors: Doerr Fabian , Stange Sebastian , Michel Maximilian , Schlachtenberger Georg , Menghesha Hruy , Wahlers Thorsten , Hekmat Khosro , Heldwein Matthias B.
Published: June 2022

Purpose

The recommended treatment for small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) currently is surgery in stage I disease. We wondered about stage II SCLC and present a meta-analysis on mean-survival of patients that underwent surgery for stage I and II compared to controls.

Methods

A systematic literature search was performed on December 01st 2021 in Medline, Embase and Cochrane Library. We considered studies published on the effect of surgery in SCLC since 2004 and assessed them using ROBINS-I. We preformed I2-tests, Q-statistics, DerSimonian-Laird tests and Egger-regression. The meta-analysis was conducted according to PRISMA.

Results

Out of 6826 records, seven studies with a total of 11,241 patients (‘surgery group’: 3911 patients; ‘non-surgery group’: 7330; treatment period: 1984–2015) were included. Heterogeneity between the studies was revealed in absence of any publication bias. Patient characteristics did not differ between the groups (p-value > 0.05). The mean-survival in an analysis of patients in stage I was 36.7 ± 10.8 months for the ‘surgery group’ and 20.3 ± 5.7 months for the ‘non-surgery group’ (p-value = 0.0084). A combined analysis of patients in stage I and II revealed a mean-survival of 32.0 ± 16.7 months for the ‘surgery group’ and 19.1 ± 6.1 months for the ‘non-surgery group’ (p-value = 0.0391). In a separate analysis of stage II, we were able to demonstrate a significant survival benefit after surgery (21.4 ± 3.6 versus 16.2 ± 3.9 months; p-value = 0.0493).

Conclusion

Our meta-analysis shows a significant survival benefit after surgery not only in the recommended stage I but also in stage II SCLC. Our data suggests that both stages should be considered for surgery of early SCLC.
Comparison between MACSprep™ forensic sperm microbead kit and Erase Sperm Isolation kit for the enrichment of sperm fractions recovered from sexual assault samples
Authors: Grosjean Frederic , Favre Marylou , Castella Vincent
Published: June 2022

Sexual assault samples often contain mixtures of cells coming from at least two donors. Ideally, one would need to separate the cells into two cellular fractions: one consisting of the alleged aggressor’s spermatozoa (the sperm fraction) and the other containing the victim’s epithelial cells (the non-sperm fraction). This separation increases the probability of obtaining the alleged offender’s autosomal DNA profile. However, spermatozoa are often collected along with an excess of biological material originating from the victim, and with unfavorable male:female biological material ratios, the absence of separation could result in the PCR amplification of the victim’s DNA profile only. Several approaches are available to enrich/purify the spermatozoa present on sexual assault samples. In this paper, we compare a new method, the MACSprep™ Forensic Sperm MicroBead Kit (MACSprep, based on microbeads conjugated with antibodies bound to spermatozoa and their retention within a magnetic column) with the Erase Sperm Isolation Kit (Erase, a standard differential lysis separation procedure combined with a specific removal of free DNA) routinely used in our lab. The performance of both kits was tested using sets of vaginal and buccal swabs loaded with different dilutions of sperm, or azoospermic semen, representing a total of 120 independent samples. For the samples containing undiluted sperm, an average recovery of 58% was observed for the MACSprep’s sperm fractions and 43% for Erase’s. Significantly better recovery of azoospermic semen was observed in MACSprep’s non-sperm fractions (~ 85%) compared to Erase (~ 28%). Erase performed significantly better than MACSprep in terms of recovery for diluted sperm samples (1:10 to 1:800 sperm dilutions) in the presence of vaginal cells, while the purities of the achieved sperm fractions were in favor of MACSprep for the highest sperm dilutions tested. Similar trends were observed with buccal swabs loaded with 1:200 sperm dilutions. Increased sperm dilutions on vaginal swabs resulted in higher variability in the male material recovered, whatever the separation method used. Both methods were easy to perform and resulted in male DNA extracts ready to use in less than 2 h. Both kits showed their specificities in terms of recovery efficiency and purity of the sperm fractions. Ideally, additional experiments should be performed in different laboratories, using workflow and chemistries different than ours, to better define the peculiarities observed with MACSprep for high dilutions. Improving the recovery of MACSprep for diluted samples, in addition to its better purity observed in the experiments performed, could make it a method of choice for laboratory workflow, despite MACSprep’s current price per sample being about twice the price of Erase’s.
Chronological development of in-patient oncology in times of COVID-19: a retrospective analysis of hospitalized oncology and COVID-19 patients of a German University Hospital
Authors: Griewing Sebastian , Wagner Uwe , Lingenfelder Michael , Fischer Rebecca , Kalder Matthias
Published: June 2022

Purpose

The goal of this study is to examine the chronological development of hospitalized oncology and COVID-19 patients, and compare effects on oncology sub-disciplines for pre-pandemic (2017–19) and pandemic (2020–21) years in the setting of a German university maximum care provider.

Methods

Data were retrospectively retrieved from the hospital performance controlling system for patient collectives with oncological main (nOnco) and COVID-19 secondary diagnosis (nCOVID-19). Data analysis is based on descriptive statistical assessment.

Results

The oncology patient collective (nOnco = 27,919) shows a decrease of hospitalized patients for the whole pandemic (− 4% for 2020 and − 2,5% for 2021 to 2019). The number of hospitalized COVID-19 patients increases from first to second pandemic year by + 106.71% (nCOVID-19 = 868). Maximum decline in monthly hospitalized oncology patients amounts to − 19% (May 2020) during the first and − 21% (December 2020) during the second lockdown. Relative monthly hospitalization levels of oncology patients reverted to pre-pandemic levels from February 2021 onwards.

Conclusion

The results confirm a decline in hospitalized oncology patients for the entire pandemic in the setting of a maximum care provider. Imposed lockdown and contact restrictions, rising COVID-19 case numbers, as well as discovery of new virus variants have a negative impact on hospitalized treated oncological patients.
Risk of recurrence after local resection of T1 rectal cancer: a meta-analysis with meta-regression
Authors: Dekkers Nik , Dang Hao , van der Kraan Jolein , le Cessie Saskia , Oldenburg Philip P. , Schoones Jan W. , Langers Alexandra M. J. , van Leerdam Monique E. , van Hooft Jeanin E. , Backes Yara , Levic Katarina , Meining Alexander , Saracco Giorgio M. , Holman Fabian A. , Peeters Koen C. M. J. , Moons Leon M. G. , Doornebosch Pascal G. , Hardwick James C. H. , Boonstra Jurjen J.
Published: June 2022

Background

T1 rectal cancer (RC) patients are increasingly being treated by local resection alone but uniform surveillance strategies thereafter are lacking. To determine whether different local resection techniques influence the risk of recurrence and cancer-related mortality, a meta-analysis was performed.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted for T1RC patients treated with local surgical resection. The primary outcome was the risk of RC recurrence and RC-related mortality. Pooled estimates were calculated using mixed-effect logistic regression. We also systematically searched and evaluated endoscopically treated T1RC patients in a similar manner.

Results

In 2585 unique T1RC patients (86 studies) undergoing local surgical resection, the overall pooled cumulative incidence of recurrence was 9.1% (302 events, 95% CI 7.3–11.4%;I2 = 68.3%). In meta-regression, the recurrence risk was associated with histological risk status (p < 0.005; low-risk 6.6%, 95% CI 4.4–9.7% vs. high-risk 28.2%, 95% CI 19–39.7%) and local surgical resection technique (p < 0.005; TEM/TAMIS 7.7%, 95% CI 5.3–11.0% vs. other local surgical excisions 10.8%, 95% CI 6.7–16.8%). In 641 unique T1RC patients treated with flexible endoscopic excision (16 studies), the risk of recurrence (7.7%, 95% CI 5.2–11.2%), cancer-related mortality (2.3%, 95% CI 1.1–4.9), and cancer-related mortality among patients with recurrence (30.0%, 95% CI 14.7–49.4%) were comparable to outcomes after TEM/TAMIS (risk of recurrence 7.7%, 95% CI 5.3–11.0%, cancer-related mortality 2.8%, 95% CI 1.2–6.2% and among patients with recurrence 35.6%, 95% CI 21.9–51.2%).

Conclusions

Patients with T1 rectal cancer may have a significantly lower recurrence risk after TEM/TAMIS compared to other local surgical resection techniques. After TEM/TAMIS and endoscopic resection the recurrence risk, cancer-related mortality and cancer-related mortality among patients with recurrence were comparable. Recurrence was mainly dependent on histological risk status.

Graphical abstract
Development of Cotton Fabrics via EVA/SiO2/Al2O3 Nanocomposite Prepared by γ-Irradiation for Waterproof and Fire Retardant Applications
Authors: Elbarbary Ahmed M. , Elhady M. A. , Gad Yasser H.
Published: June 2022

Development of cotton fabric (CF) properties using nanocomposites via coating method was of considerable interest for wide applications. This article aims at developing CF properties by coating treatment using ethylene–vinyl-acetate (EVA), silicon dioxide (SiO2), aluminum oxide (Al2O3) nanoparticles and γ-irradiation widely used in waterproof and flame retardant applications. EVA-based nanocomposites, EVA/SiO2, EVA/Al2O3, and EVA/SiO2/Al2O3, were synthesized by γ-irradiation and the highest gel content of 81.2–95.3% was achieved at 30 kGy. The physicochemical properties of EVA-based nanocomposites were characterized by FT-IR, XRD, DSC and SEM techniques. Usage of irradiated EVA and EVA-based nanocomposites for treatment of CF by coating technique was successfully achieved. This technique provides a simple and versatile method leading to excellent uniform and smooth surface morphology without aggregation. The weight gain, mechanical properties, thermal properties, water vapor permeability and flame-retardant properties of the modified CF were evaluated. Moreover, compared with control CF, the resistivity of water absorptivity and hydrophobic property and the thermal stability were gained. The flame retardant properties of CF samples were performed using limited oxygen index (LOI) and vertical burning flame tests. LOI percentages of CF/EVA/SiO2, CF/EVA/Al2O3 and CF/EVA/SiO2/Al2O3 increased to 25.3, 27.5, and 29.3%, respectively. Untreated CF ignited and burned rapidly after 5 s. Meanwhile, the treated CF hold flame resistance properties and the burning time prolonged to 25 s. The results of the treated CF providing revealed hydrophobic and protective capability of the fabrics from being destroyed by burning, and support their further use in waterproof and flame retardant applications of fabrics.
Increased Leverage of Transprecision Computing for Machine Vision Applications at the Edge
Authors: Minhas Umar Ibrahim , Lee JunKyu , Mukhanov Lev , Karakonstantis Georgios , Vandierendonck Hans , Woods Roger
Published: June 2022

The practical deployment of machine vision presents particular challenges for resource constrained edge devices. With a clear need to execute multiple tasks with variable workloads, there is a need for a robust approach that can dynamically adapt at runtime and which can maintain the maximum quality of service (QoS) within the available resource constraints. A lightweight approach that monitors the runtime workload constraints and leverages accuracy-throughput trade-offs on a graphics processing unit (GPU), is presented. It includes optimisation techniques that identify the configurations for each task in terms of optimal accuracy, energy and memory and management of the transparent switching between configurations. Using a neural network architecture search that statically generates a range of implementations that target a resource-precision trade-off, we explore the detection of the optimal parameters for the required QoS under specific memory and energy constraints. For an accuracy loss of 1%, we demonstrate that a $$1.6\times$$

1.6
×

higher frame processing rate can be achieved on GPU with further improvements possible at further relaxed accuracy. In order to further improve the switching between configurations, we enhance the proposed mechanism by employing central processing units (CPUs) for offloading some of the executed frames, which helps to improve the frame rate by further 0.9%.
A multi-agent description of the influence of higher education on social stratification
Authors: Dimarco Giacomo , Toscani Giuseppe , Zanella Mattia
Published: June 2022

We introduce and discuss a system of one-dimensional kinetic equations describing the influence of higher education in the social stratification of a multi-agent society. The system is obtained by coupling a model for knowledge formation with a kinetic description of the social climbing in which the parameters characterizing the elementary interactions leading to the formation of a social elite are assumed to depend on the degree of knowledge/education of the agents. In addition, we discuss the case in which the education level of an individual is function of the position occupied in the social ranking. With this last assumption, we obtain a fully coupled model in which knowledge and social status influence each other. In the last part, we provide several numerical experiments highlighting the role of education in reducing social inequalities and in promoting social mobility.
A general framework for solving differential equations
Authors: Brugnano Luigi , Iavernaro Felice
Published: June 2022

Recently, the efficient numerical solution of Hamiltonian problems has been tackled by defining the class of energy-conserving Runge-Kutta methods namedHamiltonian Boundary Value Methods (HBVMs). Their derivation relies on the expansion of the vector field along a suitable orthonormal basis. Interestingly, this approach can be extended to cope with more general differential problems. In this paper we sketch this fact, by considering some relevant examples.
Die These der räumlichen Polarisierung in der neuen Klassengesellschaft. Ein empirischer Beitrag zur sozialen Spaltung von „Stadt und Land“
Authors: Konietzka Dirk , Martynovych Yevgeniy
Published: June 2022

Der Beitrag befasst sich mit der u. a. von Andreas Reckwitz formulierten These, dass die deutsche Sozialstruktur zunehmend durch eine räumliche Polarisierung geprägt wird. Empirisch untersucht werden auf der Basis des Mikrozensus erstens Veränderungen der sozioökonomischen Zusammensetzung von Metropolen und kleinstädtischen/ländlichen Orten sowie zweitens Veränderungen der Wohnstandorte unterschiedlicher sozioökonomischer Klassen zwischen 1996 und 2018. Die These, dass die „neue“ postindustrielle Mittelklasse sich zunehmend in den Metropolen konzentriert, während die „alte“ Mittelklasse und prekäre Soziallagen immer mehr im kleinstädtischen und ländlichen Raum zurückbleiben, wird nicht bestätigt, jedoch zeigen sich teilweise zunehmende räumliche Disparitäten.
Associations of cardiorespiratory fitness and exercise with brain white matter in healthy adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Maleki Suzan , Hendrikse Joshua , Chye Yann , Caeyenberghs Karen , Coxon James P. , Oldham Stuart , Suo Chao , Yücel Murat
Published: June 2022

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies have revealed positive associations between brain structure and physical activity, cardiorespiratory fitness, and exercise (referred to here as PACE). While a considerable body of research has investigated the effects of PACE on grey matter, much less is known about effects on white matter (WM). Hence, we conducted a systematic review of peer-reviewed literature published prior to 5th July 2021 using online databases (PubMed and Scopus) and PRISMA guidelines to synthesise what is currently known about the relationship between PACE and WM in healthy adults. A total of 60 studies met inclusion criteria and were included in the review. Heterogeneity across studies was calculated using Qochran’s q test, and publication bias was assessed for each meta-analysis using Begg and Mazumdar rank correlation test. A meta-regression was also conducted to explore factors contributing to any observed heterogeneity. Overall, we observed evidence of positive associations between PACE and global WM volume (effect size (Hedges’s g) = 0.137, p < 0.001), global WM anomalies (effect size = 0.182, p < 0.001), and local microstructure integrity (i.e., corpus callosum: effect size = 0.345, p < 0.001, and anterior limb of internal capsule: effect size = 0.198, p < 0.001). These findings suggest that higher levels of PACE are associated with improved global WM volume and local integrity. We appraise the quality of evidence, and discuss the implications of these findings for the preservation of WM across the lifespan. We conclude by providing recommendations for future research in order to advance our understanding of the specific PACE parameters and neurobiological mechanisms underlying these effects.
What have we learned so far from the sex/gender issue in heart failure? An overview of current evidence
Authors: Arcopinto Michele , Valente Valeria , Giardino Federica , Marra Alberto Maria , Cittadini Antonio
Published: June 2022

There are important differences in epidemiology, pathophysiology, HF patterns, prognosis, and treatment. Women have a higher incidence of HFpEF due to sex-specific factors (such as anthropometry, role of estrogens, pregnancy-related cardiomyopathies), increased incidence of comorbidities, and gender-specific conditions. Men instead present a predisposition to the development of HFrEF due to a higher incidence of coronary artery disease and myocardial infarction. However, there are still gaps in the management of women with HF. The poor inclusion of women in clinical trials may have contributed to a lesser understanding of disease behavior than in men. In addition, a full understanding of gender-specific factors that are studied in small populations is lacking in the literature, and only in recent years, studies have increased their focus on this issue. Understanding how society, family, and environment affect the prognosis of HF patients may help clinicians provide more appropriate levels of care. In this overview, we aimed at summarizing all the key available evidence regarding sex/gender differences in heart failure.
Perceptions of Research Integrity Climate in Hungarian Universities: Results from A Survey among Academic Researchers
Authors: Armond Anna Catharina Vieira , Kakuk Péter
Published: June 2022

Research integrity climate is an important factor that influences an individual’s behavior. A strong research integrity culture can lead to better research practices and responsible conduct of research (RCR). Therefore, investigations on organizational climate can be a valuable tool to identify the strengths and weaknesses of each group and develop targeted initiatives. This study aims to assess the perceptions on integrity climate in three universities in Hungary. A cross-sectional study was conducted with PhD students, postdocs, and professors from three Hungarian universities. The survey included demographic questions, such as gender, age, scientific field, academic rank, and the Survey of Organizational Research Climate (SOURCE). A total of 432 participants completed the survey. Our results show that postdocs and assistant professors perceived integrity climate more negatively than PhD students and full professors in every survey scale. Contrarily, PhD students perceive more positively than the other groups. Disciplinary differences show that researchers in the Biomedical sciences perceive regulatory bodies to be fairer when evaluating their projects than those in the Natural sciences. Natural sciences also perceive more negatively how the department values integrity when compared to Humanities. Humanities perceive more positively Advisor/Advisee Relations than Biomedical Sciences. Our results suggest that institutions should pay more attention to early career researchers, especially insecure and temporary positions like postdocs and assistant professors. They should provide RCR resources, socialize them in RCR, and set more reasonable expectations. Moreover, department leaders should develop initiatives to foster better integrity climates.
Does Long-Term Air Pollution Exposure Affect Self-Reported Health and Limiting Long Term Illness Disproportionately for Ethnic Minorities in the UK? A Census-Based Individual Level Analysis
Authors: Al Ahad Mary Abed , Demšar Urška , Sullivan Frank , Kulu Hill
Published: June 2022

Previous studies have investigated the impact of air pollution on health and mortality. However, there is little research on how this impact varies by individuals’ ethnicity. Using a sample of more than 2.5-million individuals aged 16 and older from the 2011 UK census linked to 10-years air pollution data, this article investigates the effect of air pollution on self-reported general health and limiting long-term illness (LLTI) in five main ethnic groups and by country of birth in UK. The association of air pollution with self-reported health and LLTI by individual’s ethnicity was examined using two levels mixed-effects generalised-linear models. Pakistani/Bangladeshi, Indian, Black/African/Caribbean, and other ethnic minorities and people born outside UK/Ireland were more likely to report poorer health and the presence of LLTI than White-group and UK/Ireland born individuals. Higher concentrations of NO2, SO2 and CO pollutants were associated with poorer self-reported health and the presence of LLTI in the UK population. Analysis by ethnicity showed a more pronounced effect of NO2, PM10, PM2.5, and CO air pollution on poor self-reported health and the presence of LLTI among ethnic minorities, mostly for people from Black/African/Caribbean origin compared to White people, and among non-UK/Ireland born individuals compared to natives. Using a large-scale individual-level census data linked to air pollution spatial data, our study supports the long-term deteriorating effect of air pollution on self-reported health and LLTI, which is more pronounced for ethnic minorities and non-natives.
A hybrid fuzzy-AHP-TOPSIS model for evaluation of manufacturing relocation decisions
Authors: Sequeira Movin , Adlemo Anders , Hilletofth Per
Published: June 2022

Manufacturing relocation decisions are complex because they involve combinations of location modes like offshoring or reshoring, and governance modes like insourcing or outsourcing. Furthermore, the uncertainty involved in the decision-making process makes it challenging to reach a right-shoring decision. This study presents a hybrid fuzzy-AHP-TOPSIS model to support generic relocation decisions. Industry experts were involved in a pairwise comparison of the competitive priorities’ decision criteria. A meta-synthesis of empirical studies is used to generate theoretical relocation scenarios. The presented hybrid model is used to rank the relocation scenarios in order to identify the most pertinent alternative. The resiliency of the solution is presented through a sensitivity analysis. The results indicate that the proposed hybrid model can simultaneously handle all the main relocation options involving governance modes. Based on the input data in this study, the competitive priorities criteria quality, time and cost are shown to have a strong impact, whereas the sustainability criterion has a weak impact on the choice of relocation option. The research presented in this paper contributes to the research field of manufacturing relocation by demonstrating the suitability of the hybrid fuzzy-AHP-TOPSIS model for relocation decisions and the resilience of the results. Furthermore, the research contributes to practice by providing managers with a generic relocation decision-support model that is capable of simultaneously handling and evaluating various relocation alternatives.
Diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of severe acute hepatitis of unknown etiology in children
Authors: Chen Ying-Hu , Lou Jin-Gan , Yang Zi-Hao , Chen Qing-Jiang , Hua Chun-Zhen , Ye Sheng , Zhang Chen-Mei , Chen Jie , Huang Zong-Wei , Yu Jin-Dan , Gao Zhi-Gang , Shu Qiang
Published: June 2022

Background

Severe acute hepatitis of unknown etiology in children has recently exhibited a global trend of concentrated occurrence. This review aimed to summarize the current available information regarding the outbreak of severe acute hepatitis and introduce our hospital’s previous experiences with the diagnosis and treatment of severe acute hepatitis for reference.

Data sources

Websites including the UK Health Security Agency, European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, CDC, WHO, and databases including PubMed/Medline, Cochrane Library, Embase and Web of Science were searched for articles on severe acute hepatitis in children.

Results

As of May 26, 2022, a total of 650 cases have been reported in 33 countries; at least 38 (6%) children required liver transplantation, and nine (1%) died. Cases are predominantly aged between 3 and 5 years old, and there are no epidemiological links among them. The common manifestations are jaundice, vomiting and pale stools. Adenovirus tested positive in most cases, and SARS-CoV-2 and other viruses were detected in a few cases, but virus particles were not found in liver tissue. Adenovirus immunohistochemistry showed immunoreactivity in the intrasinusoidal lumen from some liver samples. The hierarchical treatment includes symptomatic and supportive therapy, management of coagulation disorders and hepatic encephalopathy, artificial liver support, and liver transplantation (approximately 6%–10% of cases require liver transplant).

Conclusions

The etiology of this severe acute hepatitis in children is not clear. The clinical features are severe acute hepatitis with significantly elevated liver enzymes. Clinicians need to be alert to children with hepatitis.
Identification of hub genes predicting the development of prostate cancer from benign prostate hyperplasia and analyzing their clinical value in prostate cancer by bioinformatic analysis
Authors: Chen Xi , Ma Junjie , Xu Chengdang , Wang Licheng , Yao Yicong , Wang Xinan , Zi Tong , Bian Cuidong , Wu Denglong , Wu Gang
Published: June 2022

Prostate cancer (PCa) and benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) are commonly encountered diseases in males. Studies showed that genetic factors are responsible for the occurrences of both diseases. However, the genetic association between them is still unclear. Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database can help determine the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between BPH and PCa. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis were utilized to find pathways DEGs enriched. The STRING database can provide a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network, and find hub genes in PPI network. R software was used to analyze the clinical value of hub genes in PCa. Finally, the function of these hub genes was tested in different databases, clinical samples, and PCa cells. Fifteen up-regulated and forty-five down-regulated genes were found from GEO database. Seven hub genes were found in PPI network. The expression and clinical value of hub genes were analyzed by The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data. Except CXCR4, all hub genes expressed differently between tumor and normal samples. Exclude CXCR4, other hub genes have diagnostic value in predicting PCa and their mutations can cause PCa. The expression of CSRP1, MYL9 and SNAI2 changed in different tumor stage. CSRP1 and MYH11 could affect disease-free survival (DFS). Same results reflected in different databases. The expression and function of MYC, MYL9, and SNAI2, were validated in clinical samples and PCa cells. In conclusion, seven hub genes among sixty DEGs may be achievable targets for predicting which BPH patients may later develop PCa and they can influence the progression of PCa.
Prioritizing risk genes as novel stratification biomarkers for acute monocytic leukemia by integrative analysis
Authors: He Hang , Wang Zhiqin , Yu Hanzhi , Zhang Guorong , Wen Yuchen , Cai Zhigang
Published: June 2022

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a blood cancer with high heterogeneity and stratified as M0–M7 subtypes in the French-American-British (FAB) diagnosis system. Improved diagnosis with leverage of key molecular inputs will assist precisive medicine. Through deep-analyzing the transcriptomic data and mutations of AML, we report that a modern clustering algorithm, t-distributed Stochastic Neighbor Embedding (t-SNE), successfully demarcates M2, M3 and M5 territories while M4 bias to M5 and M0 & M1 bias to M2, consistent with the traditional FAB classification. Combining with mutation profiles, the results show that top recurrent AML mutations were unbiasedly allocated into M2 and M5 territories, indicating the t-SNE instructed transcriptomic stratification profoundly outperforms mutation profiling in the FAB system. Further functional data mining prioritizes several myeloid-specific genes as potential regulators of AML progression and treatment by Venetoclax, a BCL2 inhibitor. Among them two encode membrane proteins, LILRB4 and LRRC25, which could be utilized as cell surface biomarkers for monocytic AML or for innovative immuno-therapy candidates in future. In summary, our deep functional data-mining analysis warrants several unappreciated immune signaling-encoding genes as novel diagnostic biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets.
Was the European oil industry prepared for the current global crisis?
Authors: Ionescu Romeo Victor , Zlati Monica Laura , Antohi Valentin Marian , Stanciu Silvius
Published: June 2022

The paper focuses on the impact of the complex global crisis on the European oil industry. The main objective of the research is to define, implement and validate a model able to quantify the developments and risks faced by this industry at European level. In order to achieve this objective, dynamic statistical analysis takes into account specific indicators of production, demand and actual consumption over a significant period of time. Special attention is given to the impact of the pandemic on this industry. The analysis takes into consideration the latest official statistical data and is connected to the most important global trends in the oil industry. The main result of this scientific approach is the building of a pertinent instrument/model able to assist the decision-makers in calibrating the European oil industry to global market requirements and developments. By using this tool, key elements of energy policy can be identified that can bring valuable clarifications in the context of the industry's new orientations towards green energy and the reduction of polluting fuels.
Synergistic mechanism of well pattern adjustment and heterogeneous phase combined flooding on enhancing oil recovery in mature fault-block reservoirs
Authors: He Hong , Liu Wenzheng , Chen Yuqiu , Liu Huan , Liu Haocheng , Luo Guangjie
Published: June 2022

With the maturity of fault-block reservoirs, the water percolation channels are formed after long-term waterflooding, which leads to large amounts remaining oil unrecovered and low recovery efficiency. Thus, it is imperative to seek for enhancing oil recovery methods to improve the development performance of mature fault-block reservoirs. Well pattern adjustment and heterogeneous phase combined flooding are both feasible technologies for enhancing oil recovery in mature fault-block reservoirs. Nevertheless, both technologies have their limitations. Thus, a hybrid approach combining WPA and HPCF was proposed. In this study, the large-scale plate sand-pack model flooding experiments were conducted to investigate whether hybrid strategy has better EOR ability than the single WPA or HPCF. Thereafter, on the basis of incremental oil recovery and distribution of remaining oil, the mechanism of the synergistic effect of WPA and HPCF was illustrated. Finally, the influence of reservoir inclination on development performance was proposed. The results show that EOR of hybrid strategy is the highest, followed by single HPCF, and single WPA is the least. The HPCF mainly recovers remaining oil on both sides of main streamline after water flooding, and it prolongs the period of EOR validity. WPA can change the fluid flow direction and force the subsequent liquid enters the un-swept non-main streamline areas in the water flooding stage. Furthermore, by combining WPA and HPCF, the HPCF can enter the non-main streamline areas to expand sweep volume and improve oil displacement efficiency under the induction of WPA. Besides, the reservoir inclination has an obvious influence on the development performance of fault-block reservoir. With the increase of reservoir inclination, the incremental oil recovery of the single strategy or hybrid strategy decreases. Thus, these findings of this study can help for better understanding the synergetic effect of HPCF and WPA, which can provide a hybrid strategy for enhancing oil recovery in mature fault-block reservoir.
Getting personal with collaborative sustainability experimentation: Reflections and recommendations from a transdisciplinary partnership with the Swedish craft beer sector
Authors: Ness Barry , Wahl Darin
Published: June 2022

This paper provides reflections on transdisciplinary knowledge coproduction and experimentation processes from sustainability researcher perspectives. It centers on a 5-year period of collaborative research with small- and medium-sized enterprises in an Urban Living Lab in the Swedish craft beer sector. Nine reflections cover a variety of issues and potentials encountered during numerous interactions with societal partners, and are structured by three levels: organizational, interpersonal and intrapersonal. Based on the reflections, authors then propose a set of seven considerations and recommendations for how to more effectively collaborate in such transdisciplinary constellations. The recommendations apply across the three levels, and describe an approach to collaborative research that asks the researcher to be open, transparent, self-aware and intentional, reflective and reflexive, and both adaptive and flexible. Furthermore, they aim to create soft structures to facilitate understanding and mutual learning, such as designating “organizational champions”, as well as to embed collaborative reflections into recurring meetings with partners to maintain trust and capture sustainability knock-on opportunities as they arise.
Joy, anger, and anxiety during the teaching practicum: how are these emotions related to dimensions of pre-service teachers’ self-efficacy?
Authors: Bach Andreas , Hagenauer Gerda
Published: June 2022

According to research relating to the sources of teacher self-efficacy, the relationship between emotions and self-efficacy beliefs has primarily been studied with a focus on negative emotions. Additionally, studies have utilized scales that only distinguish between positive and negative affect and do not allow for differentiation between emotions. Furthermore, the significance of distinct emotions has been inadequately addressed, although more detailed knowledge is needed to better understand the formation of self-efficacy beliefs. Based on a sample of pre-service teachers during their teaching practicum at an Austrian university and with the use of latent regression models, we examined the relationship between three concrete emotions (joy, anger, anxiety) and self-efficacy beliefs related to instructional strategies, classroom management, and student engagement. Findings indicated different associations: joy was positively associated with self-efficacy beliefs in all domains, while anger was negatively related to self-efficacy beliefs for student engagement. Anxiety was found to be negatively related to self-efficacy beliefs for classroom management and, in particular, instructional strategies. In conclusion, the results demonstrate significant relationships between both negative and positive emotions and pre-service teachers’ self-efficacy beliefs in the practicum.
Palaeogeographic significance of rugose corals: El Guadiato Area (Southwestern Spain) as a case study
Authors: Rodríguez-Castro Isabel , Rodríguez Sergio
Published: June 2022

Carboniferous rugose corals are useful for palaeoecological, palaeoenvironmental and palaeogeographic studies. However, most analyses are qualitative and/or comprise corals from long stratigraphical intervals, and detailed palaeogeographic studies in the Carboniferous from western Palaeotethys are scarce. This report presents a quantitative analysis of the late Visean coral assemblages from the El Guadiato Area (Southwestern Spain), which has been thoroughly studied during the last 30 years. This case study aims to check the utility of rugose corals in detailed palaeogeographic studies, reconstructing tectonic movements in the suture zone between the Ossa Morena and Centroiberian domains in the Iberian Massif. Sixty-one rugose coral species from the El Guadiato Area were included in the analyses. Moreover, two other late Visean rugose coral faunas have been added as an external reference: Los Santos de Maimona (Southwestern Spain) and Kingscourt (Ireland). The presence/absence datasets have been treated with paired group (UPGMA) Hierarchical Clustering and a Detrended Correspondence Analysis. The results of this study support previous observations about the palaeogeography of the El Guadiato Area, backing the hypothesis that the strike slip faults of the area produced large lateral displacements. The results of analyses conducted at this level of detail appear to be conditioned by palaeoenvironmental differences, but the results of the comparison with Los Santos de Maimona and with Kingscourt’s faunas look promising for future larger comparisons between different basins.