bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Higher rates of non-skeletal complications and greater healthcare needs in achondroplasia compared to the general UK population: a matched cohort study using the CPRD database
Authors: Pimenta Jeanne M. , Irving Melita , Cheung Moira , Mazzeo Louise , Landis Sarah , Mukherjee Swati
Published: July 2023

Background

The natural history of skeletal complications in achondroplasia (ACH) is well-described. However, it remains unclear how the rates of non-skeletal complications, surgical procedures, healthcare needs and mortality differ between individuals with ACH and the general population. This study aimed to contextualise the extent of these outcomes by comparing event rates across the lifespan, between those with ACH and matched controls in a United Kingdom (UK) population.

Methods

This retrospective, matched cohort study used data from national UK databases: the Clinical Practice Research Database (CPRD) GOLD from primary care, the secondary care Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) databases and the Office of National Statistics mortality records. ACH cases were identified using disorder-specific Read Codes or International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision codes. For each ACH case, up to four age- and sex-matched controls (defined as those without evidence of skeletal/growth disorders) were included. Event rates per 100 person-years were calculated for a pre-defined set of complications (informed by reviews of existing ACH literature and discussion with clinical authors), healthcare visits and mortality. Rate ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to compare case and control cohorts.

Results

541 ACH cases and 2052 controls were identified for the CPRD cohort; of these, 275 cases and 1064 matched controls had linkage to HES data. Approximately twice as many non-skeletal complications were reported among individuals with ACH versus controls (RR [95% CI] 1.80 [1.59–2.03]). Among ACH cases, a U-shaped distribution of complications was observed across age groups, whereby the highest complication rates occurred at < 11 and > 60 years of age. Individuals with ACH had greater needs for medication, GP referrals to specialist care, medical imaging, surgical procedures and healthcare visits versus controls, as well as a mortality rate of almost twice as high.

Conclusions

Patients with ACH experience high rates of a range of both skeletal and non-skeletal complications across their lifespan. To manage these complications, individuals with ACH have significantly increased healthcare needs compared to the general population. These results underscore the need for more coordinated and multidisciplinary management of people with ACH to improve health outcomes across the lifespan.
Neurodevelopmental impairments in children with septo-optic dysplasia spectrum conditions: a systematic review
Authors: Mann Amy , Aghababaie Arameh , Kalitsi Jennifer , Martins Daniel , Paloyelis Yannis , Kapoor Ritika R.
Published: July 2023

Background

Septo-optic dysplasia (SOD) is a rare condition diagnosed in children with two or more of the following: hypopituitarism, midline brain abnormalities, and optic nerve hypoplasia. Children with SOD experience varied visual impairment and endocrine dysfunction. Autistic-like behaviours have been reported; however, their nature and prevalence remain to be fully understood. The present systematic review aimed to explore the type and prevalence of neurodevelopmental impairments in children with SOD spectrum conditions.

Methods

The search was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, and PsycInfo. Hand-searching reference lists of included studies was conducted. All peer-reviewed, observational studies assessing behavioural and cognitive impairments or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) symptoms in children (< 18 years) with SOD, optic nerve hypoplasia, and SOD-plus were included. Studies were excluded if they did not report standardised measures of neurodevelopmental impairments or ASD outcomes.

Results

From 2132 screened articles, 20 articles reporting data from a total of 479 children were included in prevalence estimates. Of 14 studies assessing cognitive-developmental outcomes, 175 of 336 (52%) children presented with intellectual disability or developmental delay. A diagnosis of ASD or clinical level of symptoms was observed in 65 of 187 (35%) children across five studies. Only five studies assessed for dysfunction across behavioural, emotional, or social domains and reported impairments in 88 of 184 (48%) of children assessed.

Limitations

Importantly, high heterogeneity among the samples in relation to their neuroanatomical, endocrine, and optic nerve involvement meant that it was not possible to statistically assess the relative contribution of these confounding factors to the specific neurodevelopmental phenotype. This was further limited by the variation in study designs and behavioural assessments used across the included studies, which may have increased the risk of information bias.

Conclusions

This systematic review suggests that the prevalence of neurodevelopmental impairments in children within the SOD spectrum may be high. Clinicians should therefore consider including formal assessments of ASD symptoms and neurodevelopmental impairments alongside routine care. There is, additionally, a need for further research to define and validate a standardised battery of tools that accurately identify neurodevelopmental impairments in SOD spectrum conditions, and for research to identify the likely causal mechanisms.
SOX9 is a key component of RUNX2-regulated transcriptional circuitry in osteosarcoma
Authors: Kim Young-Im , Tseng Yu-Chou , Ayaz Gamze , Wang Shasha , Yan Hualong , du Bois Wendy , Yang Howard , Zhen Tao , Lee Maxwell P. , Liu Paul , Kaplan Rosandra N. , Huang Jing
Published: July 2023

Background

The absence of prominent, actionable genetic alternations in osteosarcomas (OS) implies that transcriptional and epigenetic mechanisms significantly contribute to the progression of this life-threatening form of cancer. Therefore, the identification of potential transcriptional events that promote the survival of OS cells could be key in devising targeted therapeutic approaches for OS. We have previously shown that RUNX2 is a transcription factor (TF) essential for OS cell survival. Unfortunately, the transcriptional network or circuitry regulated by RUNX2 in OS cells is still largely unknown.

Methods

The TFs that are in the RUNX2 transcriptional circuitry were identified by analyzing RNAseq and ChIPseq datasets of RUNX2. To evaluate the effect of SOX9 knockdown on the survival of osteosarcoma cells in vitro, we employed cleaved caspase-3 immunoblotting and propidium iodide staining techniques. The impact of SOX9 and JMJD1C depletion on OS tumor growth was examined in vivo using xenografts and immunohistochemistry. Downstream targets of SOX9 were identified and dissected using RNAseq, pathway analysis, and gene set enrichment analysis. Furthermore, the interactome of SOX9 was identified using BioID and validated by PLA.

Result

Our findings demonstrate that SOX9 is a critical TF that is induced by RUNX2. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments revealed that SOX9 plays a pivotal role in the survival of OS. RNAseq analysis revealed that SOX9 activates the transcription of MYC, a downstream target of RUNX2. Mechanistically, our results suggest a transcriptional network involving SOX9, RUNX2, and MYC, with SOX9 binding to RUNX2. Moreover, we discovered that JMJD1C, a chromatin factor, is a novel binding partner of SOX9, and depletion of JMJD1C impairs OS tumor growth.

Conclusion

The findings of this study represent a significant advancement in our understanding of the transcriptional network present in OS cells, providing valuable insights that may contribute to the development of targeted therapies for OS.
The devil you know and the devil you don’t: current status and challenges of bovine tuberculosis eradication in the United States
Authors: O’Brien Daniel J. , Thacker Tyler C. , Salvador Liliana C. M. , Duffiney Anthony G. , Robbe-Austerman Suelee , Camacho Mark S. , Lombard Jason E. , Palmer Mitchell V.
Published: July 2023

Having entered into its second century, the eradication program for bovine tuberculosis (bTB, caused by Mycobacterium bovis) in the United States of America occupies a position both enviable and daunting. Excepting four counties in Michigan comprising only 6109 km2 (0.06% of US land area) classified as Modified Accredited, as of April 2022 the entire country was considered Accredited Free of bTB by the US Department of Agriculture for cattle and bison. On the surface, the now well-described circumstances of endemic bTB in Michigan, where white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) serve as a free-ranging wildlife maintenance host, may appear to be the principal remaining barrier to national eradication. However, the situation there is unique in the U.S., and far-removed from the broader issues of bTB control in the remainder of the country. In Michigan, extensive surveillance for bTB in deer over the last quarter century, and regulatory measures to maximize the harvest of publicly-owned wildlife, have been implemented and sustained. Prevalence of bTB in deer has remained at a low level, although not sufficiently low to eliminate cattle herd infections. Public attitudes towards bTB, cattle and deer, and their relative importance, have been more influential in the management of the disease than any limitations of biological science. However, profound changes in the demographics and social attitudes of Michigan’s human population are underway, changes which are likely to force a critical reevaluation of the bTB control strategies thus far considered integral. In the rest of the U.S. where bTB is not self-sustaining in wildlife, changes in the scale of cattle production, coupled with both technical and non-technical issues have created their own substantial challenges. It is against this diverse backdrop that the evolution of whole genome sequencing of M. bovis has revolutionized understanding of the history and ecology of bTB in Michigan, resolved previously undiscernible epidemiological puzzles, provided insights into zoonotic transmission, and unified eradication efforts across species and agencies. We describe the current status of bTB eradication in the U.S., how circumstances and management have changed, what has been learned, and what remains more elusive than ever.
Chlodowsky-type Szász operators via Boas–Buck-type polynomials and some approximation properties
Authors: Braha Naim L. , Loku Valdete , Mursaleen M.
Published: July 2023

In this paper, we construct the Chlodowsky-type Szász operators defined via Boas–Buck-type polynomials. We prove some approximation properties and obtain the rate of the convergence for these operators. We also study the Voronovskaya-type theorem and weighted approximation.
Response to the comment “Are claims of cheap muon production correct?” by K. Hansen and J. Engelen, Energy Sustain. Soc., 2023
Authors: Holmlid L.
Published: July 2023

It is shown that muons are generated from decay of the mesons created by baryon annihilation reactions in ultra-dense hydrogen H(0), based on numerous previous publications and one patent. The cost of the muons in energy is 500 times lower than from production in particle accelerators; therefore, they are considered to be cheap. We argue that ordinary scientific publications are more suitable for proving or disproving scientific results than comments with no new information.
Increased genital mucosal cytokines in Canadian women associate with higher antigen-presenting cells, inflammatory metabolites, epithelial barrier disruption, and the depletion of L. crispatus
Authors: Farr Zuend Christina , Lamont Alana , Noel-Romas Laura , Knodel Samantha , Birse Kenzie , Kratzer Kateryna , McQueen Peter , Perner Michelle , Ayele Hossaena , Mutch Sarah , Berard Alicia R. , Schellenberg John J. , Senturk Faruk , McCorrister Stuart , Westmacott Garrett , Mulhall Fran , Sandberg Bonnie , Yu Adelicia , Burnett Margaret , Poliquin Vanessa , Burgener Adam D.
Published: July 2023

Background

Cervicovaginal inflammation has been linked to negative reproductive health outcomes including the acquisition of HIV, other sexually transmitted infections, and cervical carcinogenesis. While changes to the vaginal microbiome have been linked to genital inflammation, the molecular relationships between the functional components of the microbiome with cervical immunology in the reproductive tract are understudied, limiting our understanding of mucosal biology that may be important for reproductive health.

Results

In this study, we used a multi’-omics approach to profile cervicovaginal samples collected from 43 Canadian women to characterize host, immune, functional microbiome, and metabolome features of cervicovaginal inflammation. We demonstrate that inflammation is associated with lower amounts of L. crispatus and higher levels of cervical antigen-presenting cells (APCs). Proteomic analysis showed an upregulation of pathways related to neutrophil degranulation, complement, and leukocyte migration, with lower levels of cornified envelope and cell-cell adherens junctions. Functional microbiome analysis showed reductions in carbohydrate metabolism and lactic acid, with increases in xanthine and other metabolites. Bayesian network analysis linked L. crispatus with glycolytic and nucleotide metabolism, succinate and xanthine, and epithelial proteins SCEL and IVL as major molecular features associated with pro-inflammatory cytokines and increased APCs.

Conclusions

This study identified key molecular and immunological relationships with cervicovaginal inflammation, including higher APCs, bacterial metabolism, and proteome alterations that underlie inflammation. As APCs are involved in HIV transmission, parturition, and cervical cancer progression, further studies are needed to explore the interactions between these cells, bacterial metabolism, mucosal immunity, and their relationship to reproductive health.
Dynamic RNA profiles in the small intestinal epithelia of cats after Toxoplasma gondii infection
Authors: Zhai Bintao , Xie Shi-Chen , Zhang Jiyu , He Jun-Jun , Zhu Xing-Quan
Published: July 2023

Background

Felids are the only definitive hosts of Toxoplasma gondii. However, the biological features of the feline small intestine following T. gondii infection are poorly understood. We investigated the changes in the expression of RNAs (including mRNAs, long non-coding RNAs and circular RNAs) in the small intestinal epithelia of cats following T. gondii infection to improve our understanding of the life cycle of T. gondii and cat responses to T. gondii infection.

Methods

Fifteen cats were randomly assigned to five groups, and the infection groups were inoculated with 600 tissue cysts of the T. gondii Pru strain by gavage. The small intestinal epithelia of cats were collected at 6, 10, 14, and 30 days post infection (DPI). Using high-throughput RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), we investigated the changes in RNA expression. The expression levels of differentially expressed (DE) genes and non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) identified by RNA-seq were validated by quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR). Differential expression was determined using the DESeq R package.

Results

In total, 207 annotated lncRNAs, 20,552 novel lncRNAs, 3342 novel circRNAs and 19,409 mRNAs were identified. Among these, 70 to 344 DE mRNAs, lncRNAs and circRNAs were detected, and the post-cleavage binding sites between 725 ncRNAs and 2082 miRNAs were predicted. Using the co-location method, we predicted that a total of 235 lncRNAs target 1044 protein-coding genes, while the results of co-expression analysis revealed that 174 lncRNAs target 2097 mRNAs. Pathway enrichment analyses of the genes targeted by ncRNAs suggested that most ncRNAs were significantly enriched in immune or diseases-related pathways. NcRNA regulatory networks revealed that a single ncRNA could be directly or indirectly regulated by multiple genes or ncRNAs that could influence the immune response of cats. Co-expression analysis showed that 242 circRNAs, mainly involved in immune responses, were significantly associated with T. gondii infection. In contrast, 1352 protein coding RNAs, mainly involved in nucleic acid process/repair pathways or oocyte development pathways, were negatively associated with T. gondii infection.

Conclusions

This study is the first to reveal the expression profiles of circRNAs, lncRNAs and mRNAs in the cat small intestine following T. gondii infection and will facilitate the elucidation of the role of ncRNAs in the pathogenesis of T. gondii infection in its definitive host, thereby facilitating the development of novel intervention strategies against T. gondii infection in humans and animals.

Graphical Abstract
Pilot clinical trial and phenotypic analysis in chemotherapy-pretreated, metastatic triple-negative breast cancer patients treated with oral TAK-228 and TAK-117 (PIKTOR) to increase DNA damage repair deficiency followed by cisplatin and nab paclitaxel
Authors: Lang Jessica D. , Nguyen Tuong Vi V. , Levin Maren K. , Blas Page E. , Williams Heather L. , Rodriguez Esther San Roman , Briones Natalia , Mueller Claudius , Selleck William , Moore Sarah , Zismann Victoria L. , Hendricks William P.D. , Espina Virginia , O’Shaughnessy Joyce
Published: July 2023

Background

A subset of triple-negative breast cancers (TNBCs) have homologous recombination deficiency with upregulation of compensatory DNA repair pathways. PIKTOR, a combination of TAK-228 (TORC1/2 inhibitor) and TAK-117 (PI3Kα inhibitor), is hypothesized to increase genomic instability and increase DNA damage repair (DDR) deficiency, leading to increased sensitivity to DNA-damaging chemotherapy and to immune checkpoint blockade inhibitors.

Methods

10 metastatic TNBC patients received 4 mg TAK-228 and 200 mg TAK-117 (PIKTOR) orally each day for 3 days followed by 4 days off, weekly, until disease progression (PD), followed by intravenous cisplatin 75 mg/m2 plus nab paclitaxel 220 mg/m2 every 3 weeks for up to 6 cycles. Patients received subsequent treatment with pembrolizumab and/or chemotherapy. Primary endpoints were objective response rate with cisplatin/nab paclitaxel and safety. Biopsies of a metastatic lesion were collected prior to and at PD on PIKTOR. Whole exome and RNA-sequencing and reverse phase protein arrays (RPPA) were used to phenotype tumors pre- and post-PIKTOR for alterations in DDR, proliferation, and immune response.

Results

With cisplatin/nab paclitaxel (cis/nab pac) therapy post PIKTOR, 3 patients had clinical benefit (1 partial response (PR) and 2 stable disease (SD) ≥ 6 months) and continued to have durable benefit in progression-free survival with pembrolizumab post-cis/nab pac for 1.2, 2, and 3.6 years. Their post-PIKTOR metastatic tissue displayed decreased mismatch repair (MMR), increased tumor mutation burden, and significantly lower levels of 53BP1, DAG Lipase β, GCN2, AKT Ser473, and PKCzeta Thr410/403 compared to pre-PIKTOR tumor tissue.

Conclusions

Priming patients’ chemotherapy-pretreated metastatic TNBC with PIKTOR led to very prolonged response/disease control with subsequent cis/nab pac, followed by pembrolizumab, in 3 of 10 treated patients. Our multi-omics approach revealed a higher number of genomic alterations, reductions in MMR, and alterations in immune and stress response pathways post-PIKTOR in patients who had durable responses.

Trial Registration

This clinical trial was registered on June 21, 2017, at ClinicalTrials.gov using identifier NCT03193853.
Impact of H3K27 trimethylation loss in meningiomas: a meta-analysis
Authors: Cello Gregory , Patel Ruchit V. , McMahon James Tanner , Santagata Sandro , Bi Wenya Linda
Published: July 2023

Trimethylation of lysine 27 on histone 3 (H3K27me3) loss has been implicated in worse prognoses for patients with meningiomas. However, there have been challenges in measuring H3K27me3 loss, quantifying its impact, and interpreting its clinical utility. We conducted a systematic review across Pubmed, Embase, and Web of Science to identify studies examining H3K27me3 loss in meningioma. Clinical, histopathological, and immunohistochemistry (IHC) characteristics were aggregated. A meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model to assess prevalence of H3K27me3 loss and meningioma recurrence risk. Study bias was characterized using the NIH Quality Assessment Tool and funnel plots. Nine publications met inclusion criteria with a total of 2376 meningioma cases. The prevalence of H3K27me3 loss was 16% (95% CI 0.09–0.27), with higher grade tumors associated with a significantly greater proportion of loss. H3K27me3 loss was more common in patients who were male, had recurrent meningiomas, or required adjuvant radiation therapy. Patients were 1.70 times more likely to have tumor recurrence with H3K27me3 loss (95% CI 1.35–2.15). The prevalence of H3K27me3 loss in WHO grade 2 and 3 meningiomas was found to be significantly greater in tissue samples less than five years old versus tissue of all ages and when a broader definition of IHC staining loss was applied. This analysis demonstrates that H3K27me3 loss significantly associates with more aggressive meningiomas. While differences in IHC and tumor tissue age have led to heterogeneity in studying H3K27me3 loss, a robust prognostic signal is present. Our findings suggest an opportunity to improve study design and standardize tissue processing to optimize clinical viability of this epigenetic marker.
RARRES2 regulates lipid metabolic reprogramming to mediate the development of brain metastasis in triple negative breast cancer
Authors: Li Yi-Qun , Sun Fang-Zhou , Li Chun-Xiao , Mo Hong-Nan , Zhou Yan-Tong , Lv Dan , Zhai Jing-Tong , Qian Hai-Li , Ma Fei
Published: July 2023

Background

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), the most aggressive subtype of breast cancer, is characterized by a high incidence of brain metastasis (BrM) and a poor prognosis. As the most lethal form of breast cancer, BrM remains a major clinical challenge due to its rising incidence and lack of effective treatment strategies. Recent evidence suggested a potential role of lipid metabolic reprogramming in breast cancer brain metastasis (BCBrM), but the underlying mechanisms are far from being fully elucidated.

Methods

Through analysis of BCBrM transcriptome data from mice and patients, and immunohistochemical validation on patient tissues, we identified and verified the specific down-regulation of retinoic acid receptor responder 2 (RARRES2), a multifunctional adipokine and chemokine, in BrM of TNBC. We investigated the effect of aberrant RARRES2 expression of BrM in both in vitro and in vivo studies. Key signaling pathway components were evaluated using multi-omics approaches. Lipidomics were performed to elucidate the regulation of lipid metabolic reprogramming of RARRES2.

Results

We found that down-regulation of RARRES2 is specifically associated with BCBrM, and that RARRES2 deficiency promoted BCBrM through lipid metabolic reprogramming. Mechanistically, reduced expression of RARRES2 in brain metastatic potential TNBC cells resulted in increased levels of glycerophospholipid and decreased levels of triacylglycerols by regulating phosphatase and tensin homologue (PTEN)-mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)-sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 (SREBP1) signaling pathway to facilitate the survival of breast cancer cells in the unique brain microenvironment.

Conclusions

Our work uncovers an essential role of RARRES2 in linking lipid metabolic reprogramming and the development of BrM. RARRES2-dependent metabolic functions may serve as potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets for BCBrM.
Modern contraceptive method utilization and determinant factors among women in Ethiopia: Multinomial logistic regression mini- EDHS-2019 analysis
Authors: Negash Berhan Tsegaye , Chekol Aklile Tsega , Wale Mastewal Aschale
Published: July 2023

Background

Globally, approximately 290,000 women between the ages of 15 and 49 died from pregnancy-related problems in 2014 alone, with these sub-Saharan Africa accounts for 65% (179,000) of the deaths. Although studies are conducted on modern contraceptives, information is scarce on multinomial regression analysis at the national level data. Therefore, this study aimed to assess modern contraceptive method utilization and determinant factors among women in Ethiopia.

Methods

Data for this study were extracted from the national representative 2019 Ethiopian Mini Demographic and Health Survey. Data was collected using a 2-stage cluster design, in which enumeration areas formed the first stage and households made the second stage. The survey was conducted from March 21, 2019, to June 28, 2019. The analysis was done using multinomial logistic regression using STATA software version 14. The overall categorical variables with a P value of < 0.25 at the binomial analysis were included in the final model of the multinomial logistic regression model in which odds ratios with 95% CIs were estimated to identify the independent variables of women’s modern contraceptive utilization. P values less than 0.05 were used to declare statistical significance. All analysis was done on weighted data.

Results

A total of 8885 (weighted) participants were included in the current study from these,. The current study revealed that the prevalence of modern contraceptive utilization was 28.1% (95%CI: 27.6.7-28.6%). Factors like: women 25 to 34 years (aRRR = 1.5;95% CI:1.2–1.9), 35 to 44 years (aRRR = 2.4; 95% CI: 3.3–5.4), and greater than 45 years (aRRR = 2.9; 95% CI: 2.2–3.7); place of residence (rural; aRRR = 0.89; 95% CI 0.81–0.99), higher educational status (aRRR = 0.035;95%CI:0.61–0.98), grandmultipara (aRRR = 1.73;95%CI:1.6–1.9), and wealth index (poorer aRRR = 0.541;95%CI:0.46–0.631.9) were the factors significantly associated with the outcome variable.

Conclusions

In this, modern contraceptive utilization is low as compared to other countries. It was influenced by age, place of residence, education, the number of children, and wealth index. This suggests that creating awareness of contraceptive utilization is paramount for rural residence women by policymakers and health managers to empower women for family planning services. Moreover, all stakeholders, including governmental and nongovernmental organizations, better to emphasize on modern contraceptive use.
Design of canonical signed digit multiplier using spurious power suppression technique adder
Authors: K. P. Jayalakshmi , Miranda Priya Seema , Shri K. Aarya
Published: July 2023

Reducing power consumption is a major challenge in developing integrated processors for smart portable devices. This is particularly important for extending battery life and ensuring extended usage of the device. However, some DSP processing applications involve complex algorithms that consume more power, which poses a significant challenge in designing DSP applications for VLSI circuits. To address this issue, low-power consumption methodologies are required. Although various strategies have been developed to reduce power consumption, they have not demonstrated a significant decrease in dynamic power consumption, which is the primary factor determining the total amount of power dissipation.

The focus of this research is to develop a low-power multiplier using the spurious power suppression technique (SPST), a method that divides the arithmetic unit into the most significant part (MSP) and least significant part (LSP) and turns off the MSP when it is not required for computation. This approach reduces dynamic power and overall power consumption of the VLSI combinational circuit. The proposed system also utilizes canonical signed digit (CSD) representation to further reduce power usage.

The system was designed using Cadence design suite, and the results showed a significant reduction of 35.8% in power consumption for a 32-bit SPST-enabled CSD multiplier. The proposed system’s total power consumption is 0.561 mW. Additionally, the proposed system was used in a power and area-efficient 256-point FFT architecture, resulting in an 86.6% reduction in power consumption. This system is suitable for real-time applications such as systems that use orthogonal frequency division multiplexing.
Feasibility study of pore-pressure prediction in carbonate rocks
Authors: Sharifi Javad , Hafezi Moghaddas Naser , Khoshdel Hossein , Khanehbad Mohammad
Published: July 2023

In the recent past, the applicability and uncertainty of pore-pressure prediction methods that work based on seismic signals have been serious challenges in carbonate reservoirs. In this context, enormous research has been conducted on the prediction of pore pressure in these rocks, some of which have ended with failure due to the complexity of carbonates. To address the main cause of such failures, we experimentally simulate the pore fluid in carbonates under reservoir conditions to interpret and classify the factors contributing to the pore pressure. The results are then built into a novel hybrid experimental model for evaluating the feasibility of pore pressure prediction — one that could bridge the gap between laboratory and empirical approaches. For this purpose, 34 core samples are collected from different geologic formations at different wells penetrating reservoir intervals. The mechanical properties of the samples are investigated by conducting experiments in a triaxial cell where pore pressure is applied under different regimes while simultaneously acquiring the ultrasonic response of the sample. Sensitivity analyses of pore pressure are carried out under drained and undrained conditions and the results are used to evaluate our methodology. Pore pressure coefficients of P- and S-wave velocities are introduced in two different conditions, namely constant differential stress and constant pore pressure, with the same dimension as compressibility. Results are interpreted statistically and effective parameters are identified from a pool of many variables; these include the static bulk modulus, Young’s modulus, Biot’s coefficients, porosity, permeability, and sedimentary textures (e.g., micritization, neomorphism, cementation, fracture, blocky calcite, and dissolution). A feasibility study template is further introduced for investigating pore pressure detectability based on commonly available data in carbonate reservoirs by incorporating the main controlling factors. Our template and findings of this research are important for pore pressure prediction before performing further research and implementing operation programs. They also can decrease the risk of underestimating the pore pressure, thereby improving the well planning performance and mitigating the drilling hazards.
Psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression without psychedelic effects: study protocol for a 4-week, double-blind, proof-of-concept randomised controlled trial
Authors: Husain Muhammad Ishrat , Blumberger Daniel M. , Castle David J. , Ledwos Nicole , Fellows Elise , Jones Brett D. M. , Ortiz Abigail , Kloiber Stefan , Wang Wei , Rosenblat Joshua D. , Mulsant Benoit H.
Published: July 2023

Background

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of psilocybin have reported large antidepressant effects in adults with major depressive disorder and treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Given psilocybin's psychedelic effects, all published studies have included psychological support. These effects depend on serotonin 2A (5-HT2A) receptor activation, which can be blocked by 5-HT2A receptor antagonists like ketanserin or risperidone. In an animal model of depression, ketanserin followed by psilocybin had similar symptomatic effects as psilocybin alone.

Aims

To conduct a proof-of-concept RCT to (a) establish feasibility and tolerability of combining psilocybin and risperidone in adults with TRD, (b) show that this combination blocks the psychedelic effects of psilocybin and (c) provide pilot data on the antidepressant effect of this combination (compared with psilocybin alone).

Method

In a 4-week, three-arm, ‘double dummy’ trial, 60 adults with TRD will be randomised to psilocybin 25 mg plus risperidone 1 mg, psilocybin 25 mg plus placebo, or placebo plus risperidone 1 mg. All participants will receive 12 h of manualised psychotherapy. Measures of feasibility will include recruitment and retention rates; tolerability and safety will be assessed by rates of drop-out attributed to adverse events and rates of serious adverse events. The 5-Dimensional Altered States of Consciousness Rating Scale will be a secondary outcome measure.

Results

This trial will advance the understanding of psilocybin's mechanism of antidepressant action.

Conclusions

This line of research could increase acceptability and access to psilocybin as a novel treatment for TRD without the need for a psychedelic experience and continuous monitoring.
Awake Versus Asleep Craniotomy for Patients With Eloquent Glioma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sattari Shahab Aldin , Rincon-Torroella Jordina , Sattari Ali Reza , Feghali James , Yang Wuyang , Kim Jennifer E. , Xu Risheng , Jackson Christopher M. , Mukherjee Debraj , Lin Shih-Chun , Gallia Gary L. , Comair Youssef G. , Weingart Jon , Huang Judy , Bettegowda Chetan
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Awake vs asleep craniotomy for patients with eloquent glioma is debatable. This systematic review and meta-analysis sought to compare awake vs asleep craniotomy for the resection of gliomas in the eloquent regions.

METHODS:

MEDLINE and PubMed were searched from inception to December 13, 2022. Primary outcomes were the extent of resection (EOR), overall survival (month), progression-free survival (month), and rates of neurological deficit, Karnofsky performance score, and seizure freedom at the 3-month follow-up. Secondary outcomes were duration of operation (minute) and length of hospital stay (LOS) (day).

RESULTS:

Fifteen studies yielded 2032 patients, from which 800 (39.4%) and 1232 (60.6%) underwent awake and asleep craniotomy, respectively. The meta-analysis concluded that the awake group had greater EOR (mean difference [MD] = MD = 8.52 [4.28, 12.76], P < .00001), overall survival (MD = 2.86 months [1.35, 4.37], P = .0002), progression-free survival (MD = 5.69 months [0.75, 10.64], P = .02), 3-month postoperative Karnofsky performance score (MD = 13.59 [11.08, 16.09], P < .00001), and 3-month postoperative seizure freedom (odds ratio = 8.72 [3.39, 22.39], P < .00001). Furthermore, the awake group had lower 3-month postoperative neurological deficit (odds ratio = 0.47 [0.28, 0.78], P = .004) and shorter LOS (MD = −2.99 days [−5.09, −0.88], P = .005). In addition, the duration of operation was similar between the groups (MD = 37.88 minutes [−34.09, 109.86], P = .30).

CONCLUSION:

Awake craniotomy for gliomas in the eloquent regions benefits EOR, survival, postoperative neurofunctional outcomes, and LOS. When feasible, the authors recommend awake craniotomy for surgical resection of gliomas in the eloquent regions.
Classical and quantum aspects of infinite derivative field theories and infinite derivative gravity
Authors: Ταλαγάνης Σπυρίδων
Published: July 2023

Στόχος της παρούσας διατριβής είναι η μελέτη των κλασικών και κβαντικών πτυχών των θεωριών πεδίου με άπειρες παραγώγους και της βαρύτητας με άπειρες παραγώγους. Οι θεωρίες βαρύτητας με άπειρες παραγώγους μπορούν να απαλλαγούν από φαντάσματα και κλασικές ιδιομορφίες. Για να αποφύγει κανείς τα φαντάσματα, τροποποιεί τον διαδότη του βαρυτονίου χρησιμοποιώντας ακέραιες συναρτήσεις έτσι ώστε να μην εισάγονται νέοι πόλοι εκτός από τον πόλο που αντιστοιχεί στο άμαζο βαρυτόνιο της Γενικής Σχετικότητας.Εμπνευσμένοι από τη βαρύτητα με άπειρες παραγώγους, εξετάζουμε ένα βαθμωτό μοντέλο με άπειρες παραγώγους και αποδεικνύουμε την επανακανονικοποίηση όταν η τάξη βρόχου είναι αυθαίρετα μεγάλη. Επιπλέον, τα διαγράμματα σκέδασης στο πλαίσιο των θεωριών πεδίου με άπειρες παραγώγους προσδιορίζονται σαφώς και αποδεικνύεται ότι η διατομή μπορεί να γίνει πεπερασμένη. Τέλος, πραγματοποιούμε μια ανάλυση της Χαμιλτονιανής μιας βαρυτικής θεωρίας με άπειρες παραγώγους με μια απλούστερη δράση που περιέχει μόνο το βαθμωτό Ricci και υπολογίζουμε τον αριθμό των σχετικών βαθμών ελευθερίας.
The genome sequence of the White-legged damselfly, Platycnemis pennipes (Pallas, 1771)
Authors: Price Benjamin W. , Allan E. Louise ,   Natural History Museum Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: July 2023

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Platycnemis pennipes (the White-legged damselfly; Arthropoda; Insecta; Odonata; Platycnemididae). The genome sequence is 1793.3 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 13 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the X sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.42 kilobases in length.
Akkermansia muciniphila – multifunctional bacteria
Authors: Wosińska Alicja , Pazik Dorota , Łopuszyńska Inga , Kosecka Katarzyna , Rudziński Patryk , Cieślik Aleksandra , Jargieło Anna , Kosieradzka Karolina , Adamowicz Dominik , Stańczyk Justyna
Published: July 2023

Introduction: The complex symbiotic connection between the host and the gut microbiome, which has many important functions in the organism, provides an opportunity for dysbiosis to potentially serve as a catalyst for various health disorders. Akkermancia muciniphila, a bacterium that degadates mucin, is a noteworthy element of the human gut microbiome and has captured the attention of researchers due to its correlation with numerous diseases.

Aim of the study: The purpose of this research was to review literature and determine the impact of Akkermansia muciniphila in selected diseases. A systematic review was conducted using PubMed database.

State of knowledge: Studies have shown that reduced numbers of Akkermansia muciniphila have been associated with many diseases, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, atherosclerosis, fatty liver, some neurological conditions, inflammation, and response to cancer immunotherapies. Furthermore, the administration of this bacterium has been shown to have a positive impact on reducing obesity-related parameters, improving insulin sensitivity and glucose homeostasis, mitigating inflammation, and enhancing the prognosis of immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment. 

Conclusions: The condition and composition of the intestinal microbiome play a significant role in the development and progression of numerous diseases. Akkermansia muciniphila, as demonstrated in various studies, is an example of a bacterium associated with beneficial effects in multiple diseases. It is regarded as a promising candidate for probiotic use.
Access to public sports infrastructure in Poland as a preventive factor for cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Jasiura Adam , Lipczyńska Wiktoria , Warchoł Konrad , Gorzel Mateusz
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a significant health concern globally, including in Poland. Physical activity has been identified as a crucial preventive factor for CVDs, and access to public sports infrastructure plays a vital role in promoting physical activity. However, the relationship between access to such infrastructure and its impact on cardiovascular health outcomes in Poland remains understudied.

Aim of the study: This study aims to investigate the impact of access to public sports infrastructure on the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases and mortality rates in Poland.

Materials and methods: Publicly available data were obtained regarding sports facilities, population structure, hospitalizations, and deaths.

Results: There is a moderate negative correlation (r = -0.3096; p < 0.001) between hospitalization rates for cardiovascular diseases and the stadiums and playing fields available in the studied countries. The correlation between cardiovascular hospitalizations and indoor and outdoor arenas and gyms was also negative, but its effect was moderately weak (r = -0.2068, p < 0.001; r = -0.2597, p < 0.001, respectively). The average hospitalization rate for cardiovascular diseases in subjects over 65 years of age (M = 12117.24) was significantly higher compared to the group of all subjects (M = 3082.18) and subjects under 65 years of age (M = 1260.96). There is a negative correlation between the death rate and the availability of selected sports facilities, with a moderately weak effect for all sports infrastructure subgroups (r = -0.215 - -0.233).

Conclusion: The effect of accessibility to public sport infrastructure on CVDs prevalence and related deaths is moderate to weak. The studied positive effect particularly affects people under 65 years of age. Further studies of other sport-connected predictors may be beneficial.
Retzius-Sparing Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy in treatment of prostate cancer – presentation of the method and results
Authors: Gorczyca Przemysław , Bigdoń Anna Maria , Ćwiek Maciej , Góra Mateusz , Hunek Adrian Krzysztof , Kozłowska Martyna , Kreft Rafał , Sydor Patryk , Wartacz Marcel , Woźniak Aleksander
Published: July 2023

Background: Prostate cancer is a malignant cancer and the second most frequent malignancy in men. Millions of people are suffering from this problem across the globe. The gold standard for the treatment of this disease is considered radical prostatectomy. This method can lead to a complete cure but is not free of complications. Retzius-sparing modification of robot-assisted radical prostatectomy is a new method that can contribute to better results in faster recovery.

Aim of this study: To present the difference between the Retzius-Sparing Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy (RS-RARP) and the Standard Robot-assisted Radical Prostatectomy (S-RARP) in method and results.

Materials and methods: A review was conducted in PubMed and Google Scholar including publications from the last 9 years. Literature was searched using the following terms: “Retzius-sparing”, “robot-assisted radical prostatectomy” and “prostate cancer”.

Results and conclusion: Retzius-Sparing Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy is a relatively new method that can improve results in prostate cancer treatment. In analyzed original articles RS-RARP compared to s-RARP showed better recovery of continence and lower risk of hernia. Although there were no significant differences in postoperative sexual function, positive surgical margins, and 1-year-biochemical recurrence rate.
The role of exosomes in ischemic stroke
Authors: Ciecierski-Koźlarek Hubert , Żurek Urszula , Tołwiński Ignacy , Kędzierska Zofia , Szwed Weronika , Antkowiak Klaudia , Dadas Klaudia , Świercz Aleksandra , Małachowska Dominika , Shved Kateryna
Published: July 2023

Introduction and purpose: Ischemic stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. There is an urgent need to develop new treatments and diagnosis. The aim of this review is to gather current knowledge on the potential use of exosomes in the diagnosis and treatment of ischemic stroke. This review was based on available data collected in the Pub Med database and Google Scholar web search engine, using the key words: „Exosomes”, „ischemic stroke”
 
 
Description of the state of knowledge: Currently, thanks to the development of knowledge about molecular processes, many studies are conducted on drugs that could limit neurodegenerative processes and support repair processes. Many of the drugs that could be used in treatment show poor penetration through the blood-brain barrier. In studies, exosomes show good penetration through the blood-brain barrier, limit neurodegenerative processes and show neuroregenerative effects. Exosomes are characterized by low immunogenicity and toxicity, and the proteins contained in them are involved in neurogenesis, anti-apoptotic processes and synaptic transmission. In addition, studies have shown exosomes inhibit autophagocytosis and reduce neuronal damage.
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Summary: Studies performed on animal models have shown the effectiveness of exosomes in the diagnosis and treatment of ischemic stroke. Further studies are needed to determine the efficacy and safety profile of exosomes in humans.
La eficiencia de la conciliación en el derecho de consumo colombiano: reflexiones a partir de lo previsto en la Ley 1480 de 2011 (Estatuto de Protección al Consumidor) y en el Código General del Proceso
Authors: Sandoval Aldana Sonia Fabiola
Published: July 2023

El propósito de este artículo es analizar la eficiencia de la conciliación en el Derecho de Consumo. Se analizarán las normas que la regulan, sus características, jurisprudencia relacionada, así como los  datos cuantitativos recolectados mediante derechos de petición. Se hará una introducción a algunos temas del Análisis Económico del Derecho con el fin de nutrir la investigación. El texto concluye que mediante la conciliación se pueden obtener soluciones óptimas, evitar algunos costos a las partes, y mejorar la relación entre consumidor y productor.
Strategic Inventories in Competitive Supply Chains Under Bargaining
Authors: Chen Lucy Gongtao , Gu Weijia , Tang Qinshen
Published: July 2023

Problem definition: Strategic inventory refers to the inventory held by firms purely out of strategic considerations other than operational reasons (e.g., economies of scale). In this paper, we investigate the roles of strategic inventory in a system with two parallel supply chains under both full bargaining and partial bargaining, which differ in whether inventory is included in the bargaining terms. Methodology/results: (i) Under full bargaining, horizontal competition can induce an asymmetric equilibrium, whereby only one of the chains carries strategic inventory and benefits from it when the holding cost is small. The whole system, however, is worse off. (ii) Under partial bargaining, regardless of whether there is horizontal competition, the retailer in a supply chain always carries inventory when his bargaining power is small and the inventory holding cost is low. Furthermore, with horizontal competition, inventory hurts (improves) the system performance when the inventory holding cost is small (above a threshold and not too big). (iii) Full bargaining can be inferior to partial bargaining when there is horizontal competition. Managerial implications: The conventional wisdom about strategic inventory should be taken with caution. Specifically, the traditional role of strategic inventory empowering the retailer in a supply chain is completely dominated by the full bargaining framework, yet it is still present if inventory is not bargained. The inventory driven by horizontal competition plays a different strategic role of signaling to the competitor to avoid an otherwise adverse quantity competition if both retailers carried high inventory. Furthermore, despite the full cooperation nature of the full bargaining framework, it is not always in the retailer’s interest to give up the decision power on inventory (partial bargaining) and include it in the negotiation process (full bargaining).

Funding: Q. Tang was supported by Nanyang Technological University [Start-Up Grant 020022-00001].

Supplemental Material: The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/msom.2020.0223 .
The National Registry of Rare Kidney Diseases
Authors: Pitcher David , Bramham Kate , Gale Danny
Published: July 2023

The National Registry of Rare Kidney Diseases (RaDaR) is a Renal Association (now the UK Kidney Association) initiative to improve patient and clinician knowledge of rare kidney diseases. The RaDaR is the largest rare kidney disease registry in the world and it is a globally unique and extremely rich resource with incredible potential to improve the understanding of these rare conditions
Population screening for chronic kidney disease
Authors: Ellis Peter
Published: July 2023

This article outlines a study to determine the cost effectiveness of population-wide screening for chronic kidney disease. This study found that screening a population between the ages of 35 and 75 had the potential to prevent the need for kidney replacement therapy in 398 000 Americans.
Quintero One is Hyper-Fast
Authors: Ford Jason
Published: July 2023

760mph passenger capsule unveiled