bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perfusion decellularization for vascularized composite allotransplantation
Authors: Nicholls Danielle L , Rostami Sara , Karoubi Golnaz , Haykal Siba
Published: September 2022

Vascularized composite allotransplantation is becoming the emerging standard for reconstructive surgery treatment for patients with limb trauma and facial injuries involving soft tissue loss. Due to the complex immunogenicity of composite grafts, patients who undergo vascularized composite allotransplantation are reliant on lifelong immunosuppressive therapy. Decellularization of donor grafts to create an extracellular matrix bio-scaffold provides an immunomodulatory graft that preserves the structural and bioactive function of the extracellular matrix. Retention of extracellular matrix proteins, growth factors, and signaling cascades allow for cell adhesion, migration, proliferation, and tissue regeneration. Perfusion decellularization of detergents through the graft vasculature allows for increased regent access to all tissue layers, and removal of cellular debris through the venous system. Grafts can subsequently be repopulated with appropriate cells through the vasculature to facilitate tissue regeneration. The present work reviews methods of decellularization, process parameters, evaluation of adequate cellular and nuclear removal, successful applications of perfusion decellularization for use in vascularized composite allotransplantation, and current limitations.
An innovative use of Quick Response codes to provide patients information in Urology
Authors: Mittal Aaina , Kum Francesca , Rice Myles , Mak Quentin , Cakir Onur , Jalil Rozh
Published: September 2022

Objective:

The use of Quick Response (QR) codes has the potential to overcome some of the healthcare challenges we currently face, especially those presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this research was to evaluate the use of QR codes poster in delivering patient information effectively in a Urology Outpatient department.

Methods:

A national online survey of Urologists was distributed, and leaflet costs were estimated. QR codes for the British Association of Urological Surgeons (BAUS) patient information leaflets were incorporated into a poster for the Urology Outpatient department. Feedback on the poster was sought from patients.

Results:

Overall, 108 Urologists responded to the initial survey; 44% were consultants. However, 54% provided > 50% of patients with an information leaflet during face-to-face clinics prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, decreasing to 33% during COVID-19. Using departmental outgoings, a cost of £3120 was calculated for printed leaflets per year normally. Rise in telephone clinics during the pandemic meant 47% of patients were provided an Internet link or asked to use Google in the clinical letter, up from 17% prior to the pandemic. In response to the QR codes poster, in a patient population, mostly male (82%) and older people(60% between 60 and 80 years of age), 40% were familiar with QR codes, 73% could access Internet and 53% used it to find information, 46% found the poster easy to use or follow and 61% found it informative.

Conclusion:

QR codes offer benefits, including capability for touch-free access, cost-effectiveness, potential to increase engagement and understanding, enable user-initiated learning and improve adherence. Patient perception varies with age group and smartphone access and usage.

Level of Evidence:

4
A practical role-based approach for autonomous vehicle moral dilemmas
Authors: Etienne Hubert
Published: September 2022

Autonomous vehicle moral dilemmas matter less for the particular outcomes of potential accidents than for their role in defining the values of the society we wish to live in. Different approaches have been suggested to determine the ethical settings that autonomous vehicles should be implemented in and identify the legitimate agents for making such decisions. Most of these, however, fail on theoretical grounds, facing severe issues related to moral justifications and compliance to the law, or on practical grounds, being insufficiently universal, action-guiding, or technically viable to be implemented. The analogy with the “trolley problem” has been extensively discussed. However, researchers have rarely tried to adapt this framework to autonomous vehicle cases or investigate how it could be used to address these issues. In doing so, this paper aims to answer the two key problems of autonomous vehicle dilemmas. With regards to the decision-maker, it rejects autonomous vehicle users’ choice-based models, showing the absurdity of both switch of control and adaptative preferences and arguing for common legislator-determined ethical settings. With regards to the decisions themselves, it criticizes both utilitarian views and those based on individuals’ criteria to suggest a deontologist rights-based approach. This allows for the defence of a morally coherent, regulatory compliant, explainable, and easily implementable framework capable of addressing all autonomous vehicle moral dilemma scenarios present in the literature.
Ultrasonographic and colour Doppler features of intrapancreatic splenic tissue in a cat
Authors: Peschard Anne-Lorraine , Jamont Wiktoria , Shields Claire , Cronin Anna
Published: September 2022

Case summary

A 2-year-old female neutered domestic longhair cat was referred for a 3-day history of lethargy and anorexia. Physical examination documented abdominal distension and pain, which, alongside marked electrolyte imbalances on blood biochemistry, was highly suspicious for a gastrointestinal obstruction. This was confirmed on diagnostic imaging, with abdominal ultrasonography also identifying an incidental, well-defined small lobular hypoechoic nodule adjacent to the tail of the spleen, with high vascularity on Doppler interrogation. This was identified as a focal nodule at the tip of the left limb of the pancreas at surgery, and resected via partial pancreatectomy. Histopathological examination confirmed intrapancreatic splenic tissue.

Relevance and novel information

This case report presents the first available ultrasonographic description and images of intrapancreatic splenic tissue in a cat. It is thought to be a benign lesion of low clinical significance and therefore defining its imaging characteristics may allow for improvement in diagnostic suspicion without resorting to excisional surgery.
Global use and outcomes of the hearWHO mHealth hearing test
Authors: De Sousa Karina C , Smits Cas , Moore David R , Chada Shelly , Myburgh Herman , Swanepoel De Wet
Published: September 2022

Objectives

The objective of this study was to examine the uptake, user characteristics, and performance of the free WHO smartphone hearing screening test ( hearWHO) as a global hearing health promotion initiative.

Method

We retrospectively examined the data of 242 626 tests conducted by adults (> 18 years) on the hearWHO app between February 2019 and May 2021. Test uptake was evaluated by country, WHO world region, test date, and demographics of age and gender.

Results

The hearWHO test was completed in nearly every country globally ( n = 179/195), with the greatest uptake seen in China and India. Uptake was greatest in the Western Pacific (32.9%) and European (24.8%) WHO regions. There was a high uptake of tests (44%) by young adults under the age of 30 years. Referral rates were typically higher for older age groups in most WHO regions, except for the African and Eastern Mediterranean regions, where overall hearWHO test uptake was lowest. Most testing (49%) took place in March (2019–2021) coinciding with World Hearing Day (3rd of March) each year.

Conclusions

Digital mhealth tools provide many benefits in healthcare, including health promotion, access to information, and services for hearing loss. The hearWHO test was mainly reaching younger adults, positioning it as an important measure for public health advocacy to prevent hearing loss. Since hearing loss is primarily age related, more targeted campaigns or community-based initiatives should be directed toward older adults.
EFL Learners’ Perceptions of Integrating Computer-Based Feedback into Writing Classrooms: Evidence From Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alnasser Suliman M. N.
Published: September 2022

Recently, the integration of computer-based feedback (CBF) systems, as assistive tools for instructors, into EFL writing contexts has attracted researchers’ attention. However, EFL learners’ perceptions toward such tools’ application remain under-investigated. Therefore, this study investigates EFL learners’ perceptions toward integrating CBF into writing classrooms in the Saudi higher education level. We adopted a quasi-experimental research design with a mixed-method approach for data collection and purposive sampling as sampling technique. We administered pre-questionnaires to two groups of Saudi male EFL undergraduate students undertaking an English program ( n = 40). The experimental group’s participants developed four multiple draft essays after receiving automated feedback on each essay (i.e., the treatment), after which post-questionnaires were administered to measure shift in their perceptions. The findings suggest that majority of participants held positive views on this tool, and some of their views positively changed at a statistically significant level after practice. However, we identified few student concerns regarding these systems. Thus, although integrating such tools into writing classes provides learners with positive experiences and encourages their engagement in learning, instructors must ensure the students’ access to functional devices and appropriate Internet connections.
Comparison of Treatment Methods for Syndesmotic Injuries With Posterior Tibiofibular Ligament Ruptures: A Cadaveric Biomechanical Study
Authors: Takahashi Katsunori , Teramoto Atsushi , Murahashi Yasutaka , Nabeki Shogo , Shiwaku Kousuke , Kamiya Tomoaki , Watanabe Kota , Yamashita Toshihiko
Published: September 2022

Background:

Studies on ankle syndesmosis have focused on anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament (AITFL) and interosseous membrane injuries; however, the characteristics of posterior inferior tibiofibular ligament (PITFL) ruptures remain unclear.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

This study evaluated the biomechanical characteristics of syndesmotic instability caused by PITFL injury and compared various treatment methods. We hypothesized that PITFL injury would lead to syndesmotic internal rotational instability and that the stability would be restored with suture tape (ST) PITFL augmentation.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Ten uninjured fresh-frozen cadaveric leg specimens were tested via forces applied to the external and internal rotation of the ankle joint. The fibular rotational angle (FRA) related to the tibia, anterior tibiofibular diastasis (aTFD), and posterior tibiofibular diastasis (pTFD) were measured using a magnetic tracking system. Six models were created: (1) intact, (2) AITFL injury; (3) AITFL + PITFL injury; (4) suture button (SB) fixation; (5) SB + anterior ST (aST) fixation; and (6) SB + aST + posterior ST fixation. The FRA, aTFD, and pTFD were statistically compared between the intact ankle and each injury or fixation model.

Results:

In the intact state, the changes in FRA and aTFD were 1.09° and 0.33 mm when external rotation force was applied and were 0.57° and 0.41 mm when internal rotation force was applied. In the AITFL injury model, the changes in FRA and aTFD were 2.38° and 1.51 mm when external rotation force was applied, which were significantly greater versus intact ( P = .032 and .008, respectively). In the AITFL + PITFL injury model, the changes in FRA and pTFD were 2.12° and 1.02 mm when internal rotation force was applied, which were significantly greater versus intact ( P = .007 and .003, respectively). In the SB fixation model, the change in FRA was 2.98° when external rotation force was applied, which was significantly higher compared with intact ( P < .001). There were no significant differences between the SB + aST fixation model and the intact state on any measurement.

Conclusion:

PITFL injury significantly increased syndesmotic instability when internal rotation force was applied. SB + aST fixation was effective in restoring syndesmotic stability.

Clinical Relevance:

These results suggest that SB + aST fixation is sufficient for treating severe syndesmotic injury with PITFL rupture.
Making Meaningful Connections and Learning Workplace-Like Business Writing Through LinkedIn and Blogging
Authors: Sharma Daneshwar
Published: September 2022

Business writing has been a desired skill in managers. The existing traditional business writing assessment tools like written examination and hand-in assignments based on genre-specific instructions do not create a workplace writing environment. The business management students (n = 98) engage with an innovative Web 2.0–based business writing tool using blogging and LinkedIn. The findings show that the tool created a workplace-like context, a meaningful purpose, and a real audience for the students. The students make and build relationships in the professional community using their business writing. The challenges and recommendations for BPC faculty are discussed.
Existing Health Practices in Shaping the Decision to Participate During Breast Cancer Screening Among 50–69 Years Old Women in Estonia
Authors: Lubi Kadi , Sildver Kaire , Sokolova Diana , Savicka Vita , Nool Irma , Mets-Oja Silja , Tupits Mare
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Breast cancer is easily detectable by mammography and many countries run national screening programs for women as a target group. Yet, the majority of these countries have screening participation rates below the recommended level of 70%.

Objective

The aim of the present article was to examine a connection between existing health practices and a decision to participate during breast cancer screening.

Methods

Methodologically, this research was a web panel and quantitative telephone survey. The survey was conducted among 1200 Estonian women in the age group 50–69 years. Statistical data analysis was performed with SPSS using a descriptive and logistic regression model.

Results

The findings revealed that among different background variables, age and existing health practices significantly influenced the decision-making for participating in the screening. Results also highlighted that the possibility to participate in the screening increased with existing supportive health practices and with the increasing age. Other sociodemographic factors did not have a significant influence on the decision-making of participation.

Conclusions

There is a need to educate people from an early age about the developments in health practices that could support a healthy lifestyle in terms of individual responsibility. Thus, public health campaigns should not only call for action but also focus on health education in terms of the role of preventive medicine and health practices.
Ophthalmic Manifestations as First Presenting Sign of Evans Syndrome
Authors: Mazharuddin Anam A. , Rehmani Ahmad , Puthenparambil Larry , Alappatt John J. , Lee Wen-Hsiang
Published: September 2022

Purpose:

This work reports a case of Evans syndrome first presenting with ophthalmic signs.

Methods:

A 27-year-old previously healthy man presented with headaches and bilateral blurred vision for 2 weeks. The visual acuity was 20/30-1 and 20/60-2 in the right eye and left eye, respectively. A fundus examination revealed Roth spots, diffuse multilayer retinal hemorrhages in the macula and periphery, and tortuous vessels in both eyes. Optical coherence tomography showed a disrupted foveal contour from intraretinal fluid and hemorrhage in both eyes. Fluorescein angiography demonstrated dilated and tortuous vessels with scattered blocking defects from hemorrhages.

Results:

A workup revealed warm hemolytic anemia with severe thrombocytopenia consistent with the diagnosis of Evans syndrome.

Conclusions:

Evans syndrome is a rare blood dyscrasia that can first present as subacute vision loss and should be added to the differential of diffuse bilateral retinal hemorrhages spanning a multitude of retinal layers.
An international survey of Death Doula training organizations: the views of those driving Death Doula training and role enactment
Authors: Rawlings Deb , Miller-Lewis Lauren , Tieman Jennifer , Swetenham Kate
Published: September 2022

Context:

Death Doulas are working globally to provide non-medical end-of-life care. They have different training experiences and views on the role and whether it should be standardised.

Objective:

To seek the views of organisations responsible for training Death Doulas in order to determine what the drivers are behind this emerging role.

Methods:

We conducted an online survey with Death Doula training organisations in five countries utilising both a targeted and snowball approach. Qualitative analysis was undertaken with themes pre-determined (apriori) due to the nature of the survey categories.

Results:

In total, representatives from 13 organisations in Australia, New Zealand, Sweden, Canada, United Kingdom, and United States responded. The organisations had provided training for 0 to 20 years, with one just starting and another training birth doulas and now expanding. Owners and trainers hold an array of qualifications such as academic, medical, non-medical, and life experience. Curricula have usually been developed locally, and not always included pedagogical consideration, a strategic business model, nor mapping processes such as gap analysis. The organisations are run similarly, and curricula have several consistent topics but with distinctly different approaches. Trainers’ views are also mixed about the way to proceed with registration of the Death Doula role.

Conclusion:

The contrasting views of training organisations explain much of the ambiguity of Death Doulas themselves regarding standardisation of registration, education and role enactment. If heading towards the ultimate goal of professionalisation of the role then a challenging path lies ahead with little in the way of agreement in what this would require.
Partial copying and the role of diversity in social learning performance
Authors: Campbell Chelsea M , Izquierdo Eduardo J , Goldstone Robert L
Published: September 2022

One major way that people engage in adaptive problem solving is by imitating others’ solutions. Prominent simulation models have found imperfect imitation advantageous, but the interactions between copying amount and other prevalent aspects of social learning strategies have been underexplored. Here, we explore the consequences for a group when its members engage in strategies with different degrees of copying, solving search problems of varying complexity, in different network topologies that affect the solutions visible to each member. Using a computational model of collective problem solving, we demonstrate that the advantage of partial copying is robust across these conditions, arising from its ability to maintain diversity. Partial copying delays convergence generally but especially in globally connected networks, which are typically associated with diversity loss, allowing more exploration of a problem space. We show that a moderate amount of diversity maintenance is optimal and strategies can be adjusted to find that sweet spot.
What respiratory physicians should know about parasomnias
Authors: Meurling Imran Johan , Leschziner Guy , Drakatos Panagis
Published: September 2022

Parasomnias have significant quality-of-life, prognostic and potentially forensic implications for patients and their bed-partners. Identifying key clinical features will accelerate diagnosis and appropriate management for these patients. Parasomnias are undesirable physical events or experiences that arise out of, or during, sleep. They can include movements, behaviours, emotions, perceptions, dreams or autonomic nervous system activity. While more common during childhood, they can persist into, or presentde novo, during adulthood. Parasomnias can arise out of non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, as in confusional arousals, sleepwalking, sleep terrors or sleep-related eating disorder, or out of REM sleep, as in REM behaviour disorder, recurrent isolated sleep paralysis or nightmare disorder. Sleep-related hypermotor epilepsy is an important differential diagnosis to consider in patients presenting with a parasomnia. A thorough clinical history, including a collateral history if available, is crucial to identify characteristic clinical features. Video polysomnography is useful to identify macro- and micro-sleep architectural features, characteristic behavioural events, and any concomitant sleep pathologies. Treatment of parasomnias involves a combined approach of pharmacological and non-pharmacological intervention, including safety measures, sleep hygiene and medicines such as clonazepam or melatonin to improve sleep consolidation and reduce behavioural activity. As parasomnias can not only be disruptive for the patient and their bed-partner but have important prognostic or forensic consequences, an understanding of their pathophysiology, clinical features and management is valuable for any respiratory physician who may encounter them.

Educational aims

To understand the common features of NREM and REM parasomnias.

To differentiate between the causes of motor behaviours during sleep.

To discuss the treatment approach for NREM and REM parasomnias.
Transition from paediatric to adult care in cystic fibrosis
Authors: Office Daniel , Heeres Inge
Published: September 2022

In the decades since cystic fibrosis (CF) was first clinically defined in the 1930s, there have been many advancements in the treatment and management of this disease. Initially it was considered a disease of childhood where the majority of those affected died before reaching adolescence. Now, through advancements in management and treatment, the vast majority of those affected will live into adulthood. Therefore, paediatric and adult CF services must collaborate to ensure that young people and their families experience a positive and supportive transition into adult services. Key aspects of transition will be discussed, including when to begin the transition process, who should coordinate this and how the transition process should be structured. Challenges of the transition process and potential pitfalls when transition does not run smoothly will also be discussed, as well as tools that may be used to support a positive transition for young people and their families.

Educational aims

To familiarise readers with factors that make the transition process positive.

To make suggestions regarding the application of the transition process.

To highlight factors which may impact on the success of the transition process and the risks associated with disengagement at the point of transition.

To discuss tools which can be used by care teams to ensure a smooth transition process.
LncRNA KCNQ1OT1 promotes the metastasis of ovarian cancer by increasing the methylation of EIF2B5 promoter
Authors: He Si-Li , Chen Ya-Ling , Chen Qi-Hua , Tian Qi , Yi Shui-Jing
Published: September 2022

Background

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as regulators of human malignancies, including ovarian cancer (OC). LncRNA KCNQ1OT1 could promote OC progression, and EIF2B5 was associated with development of several tumors. This project was aimed to explore the role of lncRNA KCNQ1OT1 in OC development, as well as the involving action mechanism.

Methods

Reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) or Western blotting was employed to determine the expression levels of KCNQ1OT1 and EIF2B5. OC cell proliferation was evaluated by MTT and colony formation assays, and wound healing and Transwell assays were implemented to monitor cell migration and invasion, respectively. The methylation status of EIF2B5 promoter was examined by MS-PCR, to clarify whether the expression of EIF2B5 was decreased. The binding activity of KCNQ1OT1 to methyltransferases DNMT1, DNMT3A and DNMT3B was determined by dual luciferase reporter assay or RIP assay, to explore the potential of KCNQ1OT1 alters the expression of its downstream gene. ChIP assay was carried out to verify the combination between EIF2B5 promoter and above three methyltransferases.

Results

Expression of lncRNA KCNQ1OT1 was increased in OC tissues and cells. EIF2B5 expression was downregulated in OC, which was inversely correlated with KCNQ1OT1. Knockdown of KCNQ1OT1 inhibited OC cell proliferation and metastasis. KCNQ1OT1 could downregulate EIF2B5 expression by recruiting DNA methyltransferases into EIF2B5 promoter. Furthermore, interference of EIF2B5 expression rescued KCNQ1OT1 depletion-induced inhibitory impact on OC cell proliferation and metastasis.

Conclusion

Our findings evidenced that lncRNA KCNQ1OT1 aggravated ovarian cancer metastasis by decreasing EIF2B5 expression level, and provided a novel therapeutic strategy for OC.
ZNF384–ZEB1 feedback loop regulates breast cancer metastasis
Authors: Meng Qing-Xiang , Wang Ke-Nie , Li Jun-Hui , Zhang Hui , Chen Zhao-Hui , Zhou Xue-Jie , Cao Xu-Chen , Wang Ping , Yu Yue
Published: September 2022

Background

Breast cancer has become the most frequently diagnosed cancer worldwide. Increasing evidence indicated that zinc finger proteins (ZNFs), the largest family of transcription factors, contribute to cancer development and progression. Although ZNF384 is overexpressed in several types of human cancer, the role of ZNF384 in breast cancer remains unknown. Therefore, our research focused on ZNF384 regulation of the malignant phenotype of breast cancer and the underlying molecular mechanisms.

Methods

CCK-8 and colony formation assays were used to evaluate cell proliferation. Transwell and scratch assays were used to evaluate the cell migration and invasion. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP)-qPCR and luciferase reporter assays were used to confirm the target relationship between ZNF384 and zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1). Xenografts were used to monitor the targets in vivo effects.

Results

We noted that ZNF384 was significantly overexpressed in breast cancer and highlighted the oncogenic mechanism of ZNF384. ZNF384 transactivated ZEB1 expression and induced an epithelial and mesenchymal-like phenotype, resulting in breast cancer metastasis. Furthermore, ZNF384 may be a target of miR-485-5p, and ZEB1 can up-regulate ZNF384 expression by repressing miR-485-5p expression. Together, we unveiled a feedback loop of ZNF384–ZEB1 in breast cancer metastasis.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that ZNF384 can serve as a prognostic factor and a therapeutic target for breast cancer patients.
Insights into the combined toxic impacts of phoxim and deltamethrin on the embryo-larval stage of zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Lv Lu , Gao Zhongwen , Mao Liangang , Liu Xinju , Wang Qiang , Shen Weifeng , Wang Yanhua
Published: September 2022

Background

Pesticides are usually applied as mixtures, and their joint impacts can generate substantial toxicity to organisms. Although exposures to chemical pesticide mixtures make up most occurrences of pesticide exposures, minimal concern has been given to their combined toxicity and interplays to date. In the present study, endpoints of multiple levels were determined to examine the combined toxic impacts of phoxim and deltamethrin on zebrafish (Danio rerio).

Results

Our study showed that the LC50 values of phoxim obtained over a 96-h exposure period for D. rerio during different life stages ranged from 0.24 (0.12–0.33) to 3.39 (2.58–4.86) µM, and those of deltamethrin ranged from 0.0041 (0.0031–0.0060) to 2.97 (1.56–4.69) µM. Combinations of phoxim and deltamethrin displayed synergistic effects on zebrafish embryos. The activities of T-SOD, Cu/Zn-SOD, POD, and CarE varied dramatically under most administrations of phoxim, deltamethrin, and phoxim + deltamethrin combinations relative to the baseline value. Nine genes, namely, Mn-sod, Cu/Zn-sod, cas3, dio1, tsh, ERα, vtg1, cyp17, and crh, related to antioxidation, cell apoptosis, immunity, and the endocrine system were altered to a greater degree under the mixture administration compared with the individual administrations.

Conclusions

In summary, our current data offered a detailed insight into the combined toxic impacts of pesticide mixtures at various endpoints and over a wide range of concentrations. The results emphasized the necessity to consider the administration mixtures during the ecological risk assessment of pesticides.
Transforming L1000 profiles to RNA-seq-like profiles with deep learning
Authors: Jeon Minji , Xie Zhuorui , Evangelista John E. , Wojciechowicz Megan L. , Clarke Daniel J. B. , Ma’ayan Avi
Published: September 2022

The L1000 technology, a cost-effective high-throughput transcriptomics technology, has been applied to profile a collection of human cell lines for their gene expression response to > 30,000 chemical and genetic perturbations. In total, there are currently over 3 million available L1000 profiles. Such a dataset is invaluable for the discovery of drug and target candidates and for inferring mechanisms of action for small molecules. The L1000 assay only measures the mRNA expression of 978 landmark genes while 11,350 additional genes are computationally reliably inferred. The lack of full genome coverage limits knowledge discovery for half of the human protein coding genes, and the potential for integration with other transcriptomics profiling data. Here we present a Deep Learning two-step model that transforms L1000 profiles to RNA-seq-like profiles. The input to the model are the measured 978 landmark genes while the output is a vector of 23,614 RNA-seq-like gene expression profiles. The model first transforms the landmark genes into RNA-seq-like 978 gene profiles using a modified CycleGAN model applied to unpaired data. The transformed 978 RNA-seq-like landmark genes are then extrapolated into the full genome space with a fully connected neural network model. The two-step model achieves 0.914 Pearson’s correlation coefficients and 1.167 root mean square errors when tested on a published paired L1000/RNA-seq dataset produced by the LINCS and GTEx programs. The processed RNA-seq-like profiles are made available for download, signature search, and gene centric reverse search with unique case studies.
Transcriptome analysis and identification of abscisic acid and gibberellin-related genes during seed development of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.)
Authors: Zhao Lu , Li Mingyu , Ma Xiaomei , Luo Dong , Zhou Qiang , Liu Wenxian , Liu Zhipeng
Published: September 2022

Background

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is a widely cultivated plant. Unlike many crops, the main goal of breeding alfalfa is to increase its aboveground biomass rather than the biomass of its seeds. However, the low yield of alfalfa seeds limits alfalfa production. Many studies have explored the factors affecting seed development, in which phytohormones, especially ABA and GAs, play an important role in seed development.

Results

Here, we performed a transcriptome analysis of alfalfa seeds at five development stages. A total of 16,899 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified and classified into 10 clusters, and the enriched Gene Ontology (GO) terms and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways were determined. The contents of ABA, GA1, GA3, GA4 and GA7 in alfalfa seeds at five development stages were determined. In addition, 14 ABA-related DEGs and 20 GA-related DEGs were identified and analysed. These DEGs are involved in plant hormone pathways and play an important role in seed development. Moreover, morphological and physiological analyses revealed the dynamic changes during the development of alfalfa seeds.

Conclusion

Overall, our study is the first to analyse the transcriptome across various stages of seed development in alfalfa. The results of our study could be used to improve alfalfa seed yield. The key ABA and GA related-genes are potential targets for improving alfalfa seed yield via genetic engineering in the future.
Transcriptional regulation of proanthocyanidin biosynthesis pathway genes and transcription factors in Indigofera stachyodes Lindl. roots
Authors: Wang Chongmin , Li Jun , Zhou Tao , Zhang Yongping , Jin Haijun , Liu Xiaoqing
Published: September 2022

Background

Proanthocyanidins (PAs) have always been considered as important medicinal value component. In order to gain insights into the PA biosynthesis regulatory network in I. stachyodes roots, we analyzed the transcriptome of the I. stachyodes in Leaf, Stem, RootI (one-year-old root), and RootII (two-year-old root).

Results

In this study, a total of 110,779 non-redundant unigenes were obtained, of which 63,863 could be functionally annotated. Simultaneously, 75 structural genes that regulate PA biosynthesis were identified, of these 6 structural genes (IsF3′H1, IsANR2, IsLAR2, IsUGT72L1-3, IsMATE2, IsMATE3) may play an important role in the synthesis of PAs in I. stachyodes roots. Furthermore, co-expression network analysis revealed that 34 IsMYBs, 18 IsbHLHs, 15 IsWRKYs, 9 IsMADSs, and 3 IsWIPs hub TFs are potential regulators for PA accumulation. Among them, IsMYB24 and IsMYB79 may be closely involved in the PA biosynthesis in I. stachyodes roots.

Conclusions

The biosynthesis of PAs in I. stachyodes roots is mainly produced by the subsequent pathway of cyanidin. Our work provides new insights into the molecular pathways underlying PA accumulation and enhances our global understanding of transcriptome dynamics throughout different tissues.
Physical performance reference values for Japanese oldest old: a SONIC study
Authors: Matsumoto Kiyoaki , Gondo Yasuyuki , Masui Yukie , Yasumoto Saori , Yoshida Yuko , Ikebe Kazunori , Arai Yasumichi , Kabayama Mai , Kamide Kei , Akasaka Hiroshi , Ishizaki Tatsuro
Published: September 2022

Background

The oldest old, defined as those aged 90 or over, is now the fastest-growing population sector. This study aimed to determine reference values for several physical performance measures (PPMs) among 90-year-olds using internationally standardized measurements and to clarify the characteristics of these indices by comparing their results for 90-year-olds with those for older people 70 and 80.

Methods

We used the Septuagenarians, Octogenarians, and Nonagenarians Investigation with Centenarians (SONIC) study data from 2010 to 2018. The study subjects were 70, 80, and 90-year-olds in the target area eligible to participate in the venue. Excluding those certified for long-term care, the final number of eligible persons is 70s cohort 1000 (2010), 80s cohort 973 (2011), and 90s cohort 690. 90s cohort only consisted of three survey waves: 2012, 2015, and 2018. We used hand grip strength and score on the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) for our physical performance measurements. In addition, we statistically analyzed sex and age differences.

Result

The simple mean ± standard deviation (SD) for the 90-year-old respondents were in men, 24.1 ± 5.4 kg in hand grip strength, 0.80 ± 0.22 m/s in usual gait speed, 17.2 ± 6.73 s in 5times chair stand, 5.89 ± 4.42 s in tandem balance, and 8.3 ± 2.2 in SPPB respectively and in women, 14.4 ± 4.0 kg in hand grip strength, 0.72 ± 0.20 m/s in usual gait speed, 17.8 ± 7.89 s in 5times chair stand, 4.72 ± 4.35 s in tandem balance, and 7.5 ± 2.4 in SPPB, respectively. For all PPMs, the age 90 cohort was statistically significantly different from the age 70 and 80 cohorts (all trendsP <  0.001). Hand grip strength decreased with a similar gradient with age cohort increase of 10 years for both sexes. In contrast, SPPB lower limb score showed a larger drop between the age 80 and 90 cohorts than between the age 70 and 80 cohorts. We also constructed sex-specific appraisal standards according to quintiles.

Conclusions

Our study yielded inclusive sex-specific reference values and appraisal standards for major physical performance measures not certified as requiring long-term care, community-dwelling, oldest old Japanese. The characteristics of age-related decline in physical performance differed between the upper and lower extremity assessments.
Absence of long-term changes in urine biomarkers after AKI: findings from the CRIC study
Authors: McCoy Ian E. , Hsu Jesse Y. , Bonventre Joseph V. , Parikh Chirag R. , Go Alan S. , Liu Kathleen D. , Ricardo Ana C. , Srivastava Anand , Cohen Debbie L. , He Jiang , Chen Jing , Rao Panduranga S. , Muiru Anthony N. , Hsu Chi-yuan
Published: September 2022

Background

Mechanisms by which AKI leads to CKD progression remain unclear. Several urine biomarkers have been identified as independent predictors of progressive CKD. It is unknown whether AKI may result in long-term changes in these urine biomarkers, which may mediate the effect of AKI on CKD progression.

Methods

We selected 198 episodes of hospitalized AKI (defined as peak/nadir inpatient serum creatinine values ≥ 1.5) among adult participants in the Chronic Renal Insufficiency Cohort (CRIC) Study. We matched the best non-AKI hospitalization (unique patients) for each AKI hospitalization using pre-hospitalization characteristics including eGFR and urine protein/creatinine ratio. Biomarkers were measured in banked urine samples collected at annual CRIC study visits.

Results

Urine biomarker measurements occurred a median of 7 months before and 5 months after hospitalization. There were no significant differences in the change in urine biomarker-to-creatinine ratio between the AKI and non-AKI groups: KIM-1/Cr + 9% vs + 7%, MCP-1/Cr + 4% vs + 1%, YKL-40/Cr + 7% vs -20%, EGF/Cr -11% vs -8%, UMOD/Cr -2% vs -7% and albumin/Cr + 17% vs + 13% (all p > 0.05).

Conclusion

In this cohort of adults with CKD, AKI did not associate with long-term changes in urine biomarkers.
Optimal therapeutic conditions for the neural stem cell-based management of ischemic stroke: a systematic review and network meta-analysis based on animal studies
Authors: Yang Yongna , Hu Xurui , Qin Qijie , Kong Fanling , Peng Xiaolan , Zhao Jing , Si Jianghua , Yang Zhilong , Xie Shoupin
Published: September 2022

Background

In order to promote the clinical translation of preclinical findings, it is imperative to identify the most optimal therapeutic conditions and adopt them for further animal and human studies. This study aimed to fully

explore the optimal conditions for neural stem cell (NSC)-based ischemic stroke treatment based on animal studies.

Methods

The PubMed, Ovid-Embase, and Web of Science databases were searched in December 2021. The screening of search results, extraction of relevant data, and evaluation of study quality were performed independently by two reviewers.

Results

In total, 52 studies were included for data analysis. Traditional meta-analysis showed that NSCs significantly reduced the modified neurological severity score (mNSS) and volume of cerebral infarct in animal models of ischemic stroke. Network meta-analysis showed that allogeneic embryonic tissue was the best source of NSCs. Further, intracerebral transplantation was the most optimal route of NSC transplantation, and the acute phase was the most suitable stage for intervention. The optimal number of NSCs for transplantation was 1–5×105 in mouse models and 1×106 or 1.8×106 in rat models.

Conclusions

We systematically explored the therapeutic strategy of NSCs in ischemic stroke, but additional research is required to develop optimal therapeutic strategies based on NSCs. Moreover, it is necessary to further improve and standardize the design, implementation, measuring standards, and reporting of animal-based studies to promote the development of better animal experiments and clinical research.
Machine learning for prediction of bronchopulmonary dysplasia-free survival among very preterm infants
Authors: Leigh Rebekah M. , Pham Andrew , Rao Srinandini S. , Vora Farha M. , Hou Gina , Kent Chelsea , Rodriguez Abigail , Narang Arvind , Tan John B. C. , Chou Fu-Sheng
Published: September 2022

Background

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is one of the most common and serious sequelae of prematurity. Prompt diagnosis using prediction tools is crucial for early intervention and prevention of further adverse effects. This study aims to develop a BPD-free survival prediction tool based on the concept of the developmental origin of BPD with machine learning.

Methods

Datasets comprising perinatal factors and early postnatal respiratory support were used for initial model development, followed by combining the two models into a final ensemble model using logistic regression. Simulation of clinical scenarios was performed.

Results

Data from 689 infants were included in the study. We randomly selected data from 80% of infants for model development and used the remaining 20% for validation. The performance of the final model was assessed by receiver operating characteristics which showed 0.921 (95% CI: 0.899–0.943) and 0.899 (95% CI: 0.848–0.949) for the training and the validation datasets, respectively. Simulation data suggests that extubating to CPAP is superior to NIPPV in BPD-free survival. Additionally, successful extubation may be defined as no reintubation for 9 days following initial extubation.

Conclusions

Machine learning-based BPD prediction based on perinatal features and respiratory data may have clinical applicability to promote early targeted intervention in high-risk infants.
The status of depression literacy and its relationship with quality of life among Iranian public population: a cross sectional study
Authors: Tehrani Hadi , Vali Mohebat , Nejatian Mahbobeh , Moshki Mahdi , Charoghchian Khorasani Elham , Jafari Alireza
Published: September 2022

Background

This study was designed and conducted to determine the status of depression literacy (D-Lit) and its relationship with the quality of life across the Iranian population.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2020 among 1382 participating from the general population in Gonabad, Iran. Participants were selected and recruited using a multistage sampling method. Data were collected using three sets of questionnaires (demographic section, D-Lit scale, and quality of life questionnaire). Data were analyzed by SPSS software version 24 and using independent samples t- test, Chi-square test, One-way ANOVA, and Pearson correlation.

Results

Based on the results, the mean (± standard deviation) of D-Lit and quality of life were 44.14 (± 4.69) and 35.81 (± 5.17), respectively. Based on the results of Pearson correlation coefficient, there was a significant positive correlation between D-Lit and quality of life (r = 0.104, p < 0.001). D-Lit was significantly higher in those who reported having consulted with a psychiatrist compared with those who did not (p < 0.001). Participants with a family history of mental illness and those whose family members were referred to a psychologist for psychological issues had significantly higher levels of D-Lit than others (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

 Based on the results of this study, some D-Lit projects should be improved. Also, the results revealed that D-Lit is a potential factor that can affect people's mental health status and enhance their quality of life. Therefore, it is necessary to develop appropriate educational programs to enhance D-Lit in the community and ultimately improve the quality of life in the community by reducing mental illness.
Smoking-related psychosocial beliefs and justifications among smokers in India: Findings from Tobacco Control Policy (TCP) India Surveys
Authors: Sidhu Anupreet K. , Pednekar Mangesh S. , Fong Geoffrey T. , Gupta Prakash C. , Quah Anne C. K. , Unger Jennifer , Sussman Steve , Sood Neeraj , Wipfli Heather , Valente Thomas
Published: September 2022

Background

Previous research in high-income countries (HICs) has shown that smokers reduce their cognitive dissonance through two types of justifications over time: risk minimizing and functional beliefs. To date, however, the relationship between these justifications and smoking behaviors over time has limited evidence from low- and middle-income countries. This study examines these of justifications and their relation to quitting behavior and intentions among smoking tobacco users in India.

Methods

The data are from the Tobacco Control Policy (TCP) India Survey, a prospective cohort of nationally representative sample of tobacco users. The respondents include smoked tobacco (cigarettes and bidi) users (n = 1112) who participated in both Wave 1 (W1; 2010–2011) and Wave 2 (W2; 2012–2013) surveys. Key measures include questions about psychosocial beliefs such as functional beliefs (e.g., smoking calms you down when you are stressed or upset) and risk-minimizing beliefs (e.g., the medical evidence that smoking is harmful is exaggerated) and quitting behavior and intentions at Wave 2.

Findings

Of the 1112 smokers at W1, 78 (7.0%) had quit and 86 (7.8%) had intentions to quit at W2. Compared to W1, there was a significant increase in functional beliefs at W2 among smokers who transitioned to mixed use (using both smoking and smokeless tobacco) and a significant decrease among those who quit. At W2, smokers who quit held significantly lower levels of functional beliefs, than continuing smokers, and mixed users ((M = 2.96, 3.30, and 3.93, respectively,p < .05). In contrast, risk-minimizing beliefs did not change significantly between the two waves. Additionally, higher income and lower functional beliefs were significant predictors of quitting behavior at W2.

Conclusion

These results suggest that smokers in India exhibit similar patterns of dissonance reduction as reported in studies from HICs: smokers who quit reduced their smoking justifications in the form of functional beliefs, not risk-minimizing beliefs. Smokers’ beliefs change in concordance with their smoking behavior and functional beliefs tend to play a significant role as compared to risk-minimizing beliefs. Tobacco control messaging and interventions can be framed to target these functional beliefs to facilitate quitting.
Motive perception pathways to the release of personal information to healthcare organizations
Authors: Soellner Michaela , Koenigstorfer Joerg
Published: September 2022

Background

The goal of the study is to assess the downstream effects of who requests personal information from individuals for artificial intelligence-(AI) based healthcare research purposes—be it a pharmaceutical company (as an example of a for-profit organization) or a university hospital (as an example of a not-for-profit organization)—as well as their boundary conditions on individuals’ likelihood to release personal information about their health. For the latter, the study considers two dimensions: the tendency to self-disclose (which is aimed to be high so that AI applications can reach their full potential) and the tendency to falsify (which is aimed to be low so that AI applications are based on both valid and reliable data).

Methods

Across three experimental studies with Amazon Mechanical Turk workers from the U.S. (n = 204, n = 330, and n = 328, respectively), Covid-19 was used as the healthcare research context.

Results

University hospitals (vs. pharmaceutical companies) score higher on altruism and lower on egoism. Individuals were more willing to disclose data if they perceived that the requesting organization acts based on altruistic motives (i.e., the motives function as gate openers). Individuals were more likely to protect their data by intending to provide false information when they perceived egoistic motives to be the main driver for the organization requesting their data (i.e., the motives function as a privacy protection tool). Two moderators, namely message appeal (Study 2) and message endorser credibility (Study 3) influence the two indirect pathways of the release of personal information.

Conclusion

The findings add to Communication Privacy Management Theory as well as Attribution Theory by suggesting motive-based pathways to the release of correct personal health data. Compared to not-for-profit organizations, for-profit organizations are particularly recommended to match their message appeal with the organizations’ purposes (to provide personal benefit) and to use high-credibility endorsers in order to reduce inherent disadvantages in motive perceptions.