bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and validation of a predictive model for new-onset atrial fibrillation in sepsis based on clinical risk factors
Authors: Li Zhuanyun , Pang Ming , Li Yongkai , Yu Yaling , Peng Tianfeng , Hu Zhenghao , Niu Ruijie , Li Jiming , Wang Xiaorong
Published: August 2022

Objective

New-onset atrial fibrillation (NOAF) is a common complication and one of the primary causes of increased mortality in critically ill adults. Since early assessment of the risk of developing NOAF is difficult, it is critical to establish predictive tools to identify the risk of NOAF.

Methods

We retrospectively enrolled 1,568 septic patients treated at Wuhan Union Hospital (Wuhan, China) as a training cohort. For external validation of the model, 924 patients with sepsis were recruited as a validation cohort at the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University (Urumqi, China). Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to screen predictors. The area under the ROC curve (AUC), calibration curve, and decision curve were used to assess the value of the predictive model in NOAF.

Results

A total of 2,492 patients with sepsis (1,592 (63.88%) male; mean [SD] age, 59.47 [16.42] years) were enrolled in this study. Age (OR: 1.022, 1.009–1.035), international normalized ratio (OR: 1.837, 1.270–2.656), fibrinogen (OR: 1.535, 1.232–1.914), C-reaction protein (OR: 1.011, 1.008–1.014), sequential organ failure assessment score (OR: 1.306, 1.247–1.368), congestive heart failure (OR: 1.714, 1.126–2.608), and dopamine use (OR: 1.876, 1.227–2.874) were used as risk variables to develop the nomogram model. The AUCs of the nomogram model were 0.861 (95% CI, 0.830–0.892) and 0.845 (95% CI, 0.804–0.886) in the internal and external validation, respectively. The clinical prediction model showed excellent calibration and higher net clinical benefit. Moreover, the predictive performance of the model correlated with the severity of sepsis, with higher predictive performance for patients in septic shock than for other patients.

Conclusion

The nomogram model can be used as a reliable and simple predictive tool for the early identification of NOAF in patients with sepsis, which will provide practical information for individualized treatment decisions.
Mobile survey engagement by older adults is high during multiple phases of the COVID-19 pandemic and is predicted by baseline and structural factors
Authors: Klaus Federica , Peek Elizabeth , Quynh Avery , Sutherland Ashley N. , Selvam Divya , Moore Raeanne C. , Depp Colin A. , Eyler Lisa T.
Published: August 2022

Digital surveys, such as mobile phone ecological momentary assessment (EMA), bear the potential to assess and target individual wellbeing in a personalized, real-time approach and allow for interaction in situations when in-person contact is not possible, such as during the coronavirus pandemic. While the use of digital technology might especially benefit research in older adults who find themselves in circumstances of reduced mobility, little is known about their barriers to adherence. We investigated baseline and structural factors that predict study withdrawal and adherence from daily smartphone EMA self-report surveys in the StayWELL Study. The StayWELL study is a longitudinal, observational study on the relationship between social restrictions during the coronavirus pandemic and mental well-being in 95 community-dwelling older aged adults (67–87 years) who were participants in a randomized clinical trial using EMA. Withdrawal was associated with less research staff changes and less likely in participants that reached the study mid-point. No baseline characteristics predicted withdrawal. Main reasons for withdrawal were communication issues, i.e. staff not being able to contact participants. We found an adherence rate of 82% and no fatigue effects. Adherence was predicted by education status, study participation duration, reaching the study midpoint and time between study start and enrollment. COVID infections or supporting people in the household was not related to adherence. To conclude, it is feasible to conduct an EMA study in older people without impacting engagement during a pandemic. Furthermore, personal characteristics and smartphone operating system (Android vs. iOS) used did not relate to engagement, allowing for a broad distribution of digital health technologies. Our study adds information on single predictive variables relevant for adherence and withdrawal from EMA smartphone surveys in older people that can inform the design of future digital EMA research to maximize engagement and reliability of study results.
GSPy: A new toolbox and data standard for Geophysical Datasets
Authors: James Stephanie R. , Foks Nathan Leon , Minsley Burke J.
Published: August 2022

The diversity of geophysical methods and datatypes, as well as the isolated nature of various specialties (e.g., electromagnetic, seismic, potential fields) leads to a profusion of separate data file formats and documentation conventions. This can hinder cooperation and reduce the impact of datasets researchers have invested in heavily to collect and prepare. An open, portable, and well-supported community data standard could greatly improve the interoperability, transferability, and long-term archival of geophysical data. Airborne geophysical methods particularly need an open and accessible data standard, and they exemplify the complexity that is common in geophysical datasets where critical auxiliary information on the survey and system parameters are required to fully utilize and understand the data. Here, we propose a new Geophysical Standard, termed the GS convention, that leverages the well-established and widely used NetCDF file format and builds on the Climate and Forecasts (CF) metadata convention. We also present an accompanying open-source Python package, GSPy, to provide methods and workflows for building the GS-standardized NetCDF files, importing and exporting between common data formats, preparing input files for geophysical inversion software, and visualizing data and inverted models. By using the NetCDF format, handled through the Xarray Python package, and following the CF conventions, we standardize how metadata is recorded and directly stored with the data, from general survey and system information down to specific variable attributes. Utilizing the hierarchical nature of NetCDF, GS-formatted files are organized with a root Survey group that contains global metadata about the geophysical survey. Data are then organized into subgroups beneath Survey and are categorized as Tabular or Raster depending on the geometry and point of origin for the data. Lastly, the standard ensures consistency in constructing and tracking coordinate reference systems, which is vital for accurate portability and analysis. Development and adoption of a NetCDF-based data standard for geophysical surveys can greatly improve how these complex datasets are shared and utilized, making the data more accessible to a broader science community. The architecture of GSPy can be easily transferred to additional geophysical datatypes and methods in future releases.
Relative tectonic activity assessment of the Northern Sumatran Fault using geomorphic indices
Authors: Putra Aldo Febriansyah , Chenrai Piyaphong
Published: August 2022

Geomorphic indices have widely been applied to assess relative tectonic activity. The relative tectonic activity is mainly associated with relative uplift and long-term tectonic deformation. By considering this, the strike-slip basins along the Northern Sumatran Fault become suitable locations for the assessment. This study aims to evaluate the relative tectonic activity of the Northern Sumatran Fault with the focus on its strike-slip basins using geomorphic indices. This study utilized the Indonesian national digital elevation model (DEMNAS) with spatial resolution at 8.25-m. Here are the six geomorphic indices applied in this study along with the average values of the results: mountain front sinuosity (1.14–1.94), valley width-to-height ratio (0.58–1.93), stream length-gradient index (93.81–599.70), index of basin shape (1.66–3.16), asymmetric factor (7.45–19.93), and hypsometric integral (0.41–0.59). These results were used to generate the index of relative tectonic activity. The Northern Sumatran Fault exhibits, generally, alternating moderate and high tectonic activities and there is a northward decrease from very high to moderate tectonic activity in its northern part. The variation of relative tectonic activity of the fault coincides with the distribution of seismicity. This may suggest that the long-term tectonic deformation of the Northern Sumatran Fault has persisted to recent time.
Priming the Arabic dative: Evidence for syntactic abstractness and implicit learning
Authors: Alzahrani Alaa
Published: August 2022

Language speakers are more likely to reuse a recently experienced syntactic structure, a phenomenon known as syntactic priming. However, empirical evidence for syntactic priming comes primarily from a small subset of Indo-European languages. Using a comprehension-to-production priming task, this preliminary study examined immediate and cumulative syntactic priming in Arabic, a language with a different typology than studied thus far. Nine native speakers of Arabic were primed to the Arabic double object (DO) dative construction. Results from a logistic regression model indicate that there were significant priming effects across all priming phases, with increased productions of the DO dative (a) during the priming task, (b) immediately after, (c) and 2 weeks later. These findings provide some support for the proposal that syntactic priming arises from an abstract syntactic level as well as the idea that priming is a form of implicit learning.
Abdominal Visceral Adipose Tissue and All-Cause Mortality: A Systematic Review
Authors: Saad Randa K. , Ghezzawi Malak , Horanieh Renee , Khamis Assem M. , Saunders Katherine H. , Batsis John A. , Chakhtoura Marlene
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Increased abdominal visceral adipose tissue (VAT) implies an adverse cardio-metabolic profile. We examined the association of abdominal VAT parameters and all-cause mortality risk.

Methods

We systematically searched four databases. We performed citations/articles screening, data abstraction, and quality assessment in duplicate and independently (CRD42020205021).

Results

We included 12 cohorts, the majority used computed tomography to assess abdominal VAT area. Six cohorts with a mean age ≤ 65 years, examining all-cause mortality risk per increment in VAT area (cm2) or volume (cm3), showed a 11-98% relative risk increase with higher VAT parameters. However, the association lost significance after adjusting for glycemic indices, body mass index, or other fat parameters. In 4 cohorts with a mean age >65 years, the findings on mortality were inconsistent. Conversely, in two cohorts (mean age 73-77 years), a higher VAT density, was inversely proportional to VAT area, and implied a higher mortality risk.

Conclusion

A high abdominal VAT area seems to be associated with increased all-cause mortality in individuals ≤ 65 years, possibly mediated by metabolic complications, and not through an independent effect. This relationship is weaker and may reverse in older individuals, most likely secondary to confounding bias and reverse causality. An individual participant data meta-analysis is needed to confirm our findings, and to define an abdominal VAT area cutoff implying increased mortality risk.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=205021, identifier CRD42020205021.
Tracing the technological trajectory of coal slurry pipeline transportation technology: An HMM-based topic modeling approach
Authors: Wang Jinfeng , Li Kang , Feng Lijie
Published: August 2022

Coal slurry pipeline transportation is an important way to realize green coal logistics. However, there are still challenges in understanding the cognitive aspects of coal slurry pipeline transportation technology development trajectory. This study attempts to trace and predict the technology trend from patent texts through the stochastic process analysis of topic evolution. It helps understand the challenges in the development process of coal slurry pipeline transportation technology. And capture trends and development characteristics of the technology to improve research and development (R&D) efficiency and sustainability. As a result, this study extracts potential technology topics from patent text by using the Latent Dirichlet Distribution method. Then, a Word2vec-based topic word vector model is applied to calculate the cosine similarity between topics. And the HMM-based topic evolution trend model is constructed by introducing the Hidden Markov Model (HMM) which can portray a dual stochastic process. Finally, it is used to analyze and predict trends in the technological evolution of this field. It was found that the advancement of technology related to pulping is fundamental to promoting the development of coal slurry pipeline transportation technology, which is also a common research topic. Finally, technologies related to pipeline transportation capacity enhancement and the industrial application of coal slurry will be the focus of future R&D in this field with broad research and application prospects. This study is intended to provide directions for sustainable R&D activities in coal slurry pipeline transportation technology, facilitate interdisciplinary discussions, and provide objective data for future decisions making for scientists and R&D managers in this field.
Remediation of nitrate contaminated groundwater using a simulated PRB system with an La–CTAC–modified biochar filler
Authors: Li Sen , Wu Yong , Nie Fuyu , Tu Weiguo , Li Xueling , Luo Xuemei , Luo Yong , Fan Hua , Song Tao
Published: August 2022

In the present study, the Erigeron canadensis L., a typical invasive plant in Southwest China, was utilized as the raw material to prepare original biochar (ECL), a rare earth element La–modified biochar (La–ECL), and a rare earth element La coupling cationic surfactant [cetyltrimethylammonium chloride (CTAC)]–modified biochar (La/CTAC–ECL). These materials were then added to simulated permeable reactive barriers (PRBs) and their nitrate (NO3−) contaminant remediation performances were evaluated in groundwater. The results show that the breakthrough time for NO3− in a simulated PRB column increases as the concentration of the influent NO3− and the flow rate decreases, whereas with the increases of filler particle size and the height of the filler in the column initially increases, and then decreases. Considering an initial NO3− concentration of 50 mg L−1, and a filler particle size range of 0.8–1.2 mm, the maximum adsorption capacity of the La/CTAC–ECL column for NO3− is 18.99 mg g−1 for a filler column height of 10 cm and an influent flow rate of 15 ml min−1. The maximum quantity of adsorbed NO3− of 372.80 mg is obtained using a filler column height of 15 cm and an influent flow rate of 10 ml min−1. The Thomas and Yoon–Nelson models accurately predict the breakthrough of NO3− in groundwater in the simulated PRB column under different conditions, and the results are consistent with those from dynamic NO3− adsorption experiments. TEM, XRD, FTIR, and XPS analyses demonstrate that the modification using the La and CTAC improves the surface structure, porosity, permeability, and configuration of functional groups of the biochar. The mechanisms of NO3− removal from groundwater using the La/CTAC–ECL include pore filling, surface adsorption, ion exchange, and electrostatic adsorption. The composite La/CTAC–ECL exhibits a superior potential for the remediation of NO3− contaminated groundwater.
Spatiotemporal relationship characteristic of climate comfort of urban human settlement environment and population density in China
Authors: Zhang Dahao , Zhou Chunshan , Zhou Yi , Zikirya Bahram
Published: August 2022

Rapid urbanization in China has caused substantial changes in the urban climate, leading to accelerated shifts in the climate comfort of the human settlement environment. In addition, in certain regions of China, a glaring disproportion exists in the distribution of population to the available area. Therefore, the climate comfort of such areas needs to be improved to enhance their habitability. In this study, we explored the spatiotemporal evolution characteristics of the climate comfort of the urban human settlement environment in China from 2000 to 2015, based on a three-level time scale of year, month, and day using the temperature and humidity index and wind efficiency index. In addition, the population density in China was calculated by employing the population grid spatial calculation method. Subsequently, we compared and analyzed the spatiotemporal relationship characteristics between the climate comfort of the urban human settlement environment and population density. Our results indicated that (1) the extremely cold area was the largest, followed by the cold area, with the comfort area being the smallest. The area range of climate comfort and cold expanded northward, whereas the extremely cold area shrank from 2000 to 2015. (2) The duration of the comfort month and comfort day in southern China was higher than that in northern China. The climate comfort area of 3–4 months was the largest, and that of 7–12 months was the smallest, with the largest climate comfort area being 66–130 days and the smallest being 196–325 days. (3) The spatial difference in the climate comfort month was greater than that in the daily change, and the evolution process of various regions became relatively complex over time. The spatiotemporal evolution of the climate comfort day showed minimal change in northwest, north, and northeast China, whereas it changed significantly in southwest, south, central, and east China. These results imply that the population density in the country is generally concentrated in the climate comfort areas.
Control of tea aphids via attracting the parasitic wasp, Aphelinus sp. with synthetic semiochemicals
Authors: Wu Yiqi , Han Shanjie , Wang Mengxin , Zhang Qing-He , Han Baoyu
Published: August 2022

The tea aphid (Toxoptera aurantii Boyer de Fonscolombe) is an important tea plant pest insect worldwide. The parasitoid wasp, Aphelinus sp., is one of the most important natural enemies of the tea aphid in China. Unfortunately, Aphelinus sp. alone cannot effectively control the outbreaks of the aphid under natural conditions. In this study, 27 volatile compounds from tea aphid-injured tea shoots, tea flowers, aphid sex pheromones, or body rinses were selected and tested in Y-tube olfactometer assays to find potential attractants of the parasitoid wasp, Aphelinus sp. Based on the Y-tube assay results, the following three attractant mixtures were formulated and further tested in the field. Attractant-1 (HIPV-based) included trans-2-hexenal (10−6 g/ml), β-ionone (10−6 g/ml), allyl isothiocyanate (10−4 g/ml), trans-2-pentenal (10−2 g/ml), and jasmone (10−2 g/ml) at equal loading volume of their solutions. Attractant-2 (with aphid sex-pheromone and body rinse compounds) included nepetalactone (10−6 g/ml), 2,5-hexanedione (10−4 g/ml), benzaldehyde (10−2 g/ml), eicosane (10−2 g/ml), and heptadecane (10−2 g/ml) at equal loading volume of their solutions. Attractant-3 (partial combination of Attractant-1 and Attractant-2) included nepetalactone (10−4 g/ml), benzaldehyde (10−2 g/ml), jasmone (10−2 g/ml), trans-2-hexenal (10−6 g/ml), eicosane (10−2 g/ml), and heptadecane (10−2 g/ml) at equal loading volume of their solutions. Field trials showed that Attractant-3 was much more attractive to the parasitic wasps than Attractant-1 and Attractant-2. From late August to late September the controlled release of Attractant-3 effectively attracted Aphelinus sp. to parasitize and colonize the aphid populations in the treated tea plantations, resulting in a progressive decrease of the tea aphid abundances/populations in the fall. The continued enhanced parasitism of overwintered aphids by Aphelinus sp. further reduced this population during the next spring tea harvest season. This approach may present an environmentally sound, non-insecticidal control tactic against tea aphids using synthetic semiochemicals.
Comprehending the evolution of gene editing platforms for crop trait improvement
Authors: Dhakate Priyanka , Sehgal Deepmala , Vaishnavi Samantha , Chandra Atika , Singh Apekshita , Raina Soom Nath , Rajpal Vijay Rani
Published: August 2022

CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats)/Cas (CRISPR-associated) system was initially discovered as an underlying mechanism for conferring adaptive immunity to bacteria and archaea against viruses. Over the past decade, this has been repurposed as a genome-editing tool. Numerous gene editing-based crop improvement technologies involving CRISPR/Cas platforms individually or in combination with next-generation sequencing methods have been developed that have revolutionized plant genome-editing methodologies. Initially, CRISPR/Cas nucleases replaced the earlier used sequence-specific nucleases (SSNs), such as zinc-finger nucleases (ZFNs) and transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs), to address the problem of associated off-targets. The adaptation of this platform led to the development of concepts such as epigenome editing, base editing, and prime editing. Epigenome editing employed epi-effectors to manipulate chromatin structure, while base editing uses base editors to engineer precise changes for trait improvement. Newer technologies such as prime editing have now been developed as a “search-and-replace” tool to engineer all possible single-base changes. Owing to the availability of these, the field of genome editing has evolved rapidly to develop crop plants with improved traits. In this review, we present the evolution of the CRISPR/Cas system into new-age methods of genome engineering across various plant species and the impact they have had on tweaking plant genomes and associated outcomes on crop improvement initiatives.
Impact of glucocorticoids on short-term and long-term outcomes in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma treated with CAR-T therapy
Authors: Wang Xue , Qi Yuekun , Li Hujun , Liu Fengan , Cao Jiang , Chen Wei , Wang Ying , Qi Kunming , Yan Zhiling , Zhu Feng , Li Zhenyu , Cheng Hai , Xu Kailin
Published: August 2022

Background

Glucocorticoids (GCs) are often used to treat cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS). The effects of GCs on the efficacy of CAR-T cell treatment in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) have not been fully established. We evaluated the impact of GCs on clinical outcomes of RRMM patients treated with CAR-T cells.

Methods

This study involved RRMM patients treated with CAR-T cells at our center between June 2017 and December 2020. Patients were stratified into GC-used group (GC-group) and non-GC-used group (NGC-group). CRS or ICANS was graded on the basis of the American Society of Transplantation and Cellular Therapy consensus grading system. Response status was evaluated by the IMWG Uniform Response Criteria. The duration of response (DOR), progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) were calculated.

Result

A total of 71 patients were included in this study. In the NGC group (40 patients), 34 (85%) had responses to CAR-T cell therapy, including 16 (40%) stringent complete response (sCR), seven (17.5%) complete response (CR), five (12.5%) very good partial response (VGPR), and six (15%) partial response (PR). The overall response rate (ORR) and complete response rate (CRR) in the NGC group were 85% and 57.5%. In the GC group (31 patients), 29 (93.5%) had responses, including 11 (35.5%) sCR, nine (29%) CR, two (6.4%) VGPR, and seven (22.6%) PR. Differences in ORR and CRR between the two groups were insignificant. The dose, duration, and timing of GCs did not affect ORR and CRR. At a median follow-up of 28.2 months, the median PFS was 20.4 months (95% CI, 7.9 to 32.9) while the median OS was 36.6 months (95% CI, 25.9 to 47.2) for the GC group. The median PFS and OS for the NGC group were 13.7 months (95% CI, 8.8 to 18.6) and 27.5 months (95% CI, 14.1 to 41.0). There were no significant differences in either PFS or OS between the GC group and the NGC group. Differences in median DOR for the patients with CR or better in the GC group and NGC group were not significant (p = 0.17). Earlier, prolonged use and high dose of GCs were not associated with any effects on either PFS or OS. Additionally, GCs had no effects on CAR-T cell proliferation.

Conclusion

Administration of GCs, dose, timing, and duration does not influence the clinical efficacy of CAR-T cells in RRMM in this study.
The immune responses to different Uropathogens call individual interventions for bladder infection
Authors: Li Linlong , Li Yangyang , Yang Jiali , Xie Xiang , Chen Huan
Published: August 2022

Urinary tract infection (UTI) caused by uropathogens is the most common infectious disease and significantly affects all aspects of the quality of life of the patients. However, uropathogens are increasingly becoming antibiotic-resistant, which threatens the only effective treatment option available-antibiotic, resulting in higher medical costs, prolonged hospital stays, and increased mortality. Currently, people are turning their attention to the immune responses, hoping to find effective immunotherapeutic interventions which can be alternatives to the overuse of antibiotic drugs. Bladder infections are caused by the main nine uropathogens and the bladder executes different immune responses depending on the type of uropathogens. It is essential to understand the immune responses to diverse uropathogens in bladder infection for guiding the design and development of immunotherapeutic interventions. This review firstly sorts out and comparatively analyzes the immune responses to the main nine uropathogens in bladder infection, and summarizes their similarities and differences. Based on these immune responses, we innovatively propose that different microbial bladder infections should adopt corresponding immunomodulatory interventions, and the same immunomodulatory intervention can also be applied to diverse microbial infections if they share the same effective therapeutic targets.
Blockade of TMPRSS2-mediated priming of SARS-CoV-2 by lactoferricin
Authors: Ohradanova-Repic Anna , Skrabana Rostislav , Gebetsberger Laura , Tajti Gabor , Baráth Peter , Ondrovičová Gabriela , Praženicová Romana , Jantova Nikola , Hrasnova Patricia , Stockinger Hannes , Leksa Vladimir
Published: August 2022

In addition to vaccines, there is an urgent need for supplemental antiviral therapeutics to dampen the persistent COVID-19 pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). The transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2), that is responsible for proteolytic priming of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, appears as a rational therapeutic target. Accordingly, selective inhibitors of TMPRSS2 represent potential tools for prevention and treatment of COVID-19. Previously, we identified the human milk glycoprotein lactoferrin as a natural inhibitor of plasminogen conversion to plasmin, a serine protease homologous to TMPRSS2. Here, we tested whether lactoferrin and lactoferricin, a biologically active natural peptide produced by pepsin-mediated digestion of lactoferrin, together with synthetic peptides derived from lactoferrin, were able to block TMPRSS2 and SARS-CoV-2 infection. Particularly, we revealed that both lactoferricin and the N-terminal synthetic peptide pLF1 significantly inhibited: i) proteolytic activity of TMPRSS2 and plasmin, ii) proteolytic processing of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, and iii) SARS-CoV-2 infection of SARS-CoV-2-permissive cells. Thus, natural and synthetic peptides derived from lactoferrin represent feasible candidates for supporting prevention and treatment of COVID-19.
Analysis of immune status in gastric adenocarcinoma with different infiltrating patterns and origin sites
Authors: Zhang Nana , Wang Depu , Hu Xiaoyan , Zhang Guanjun , Li Zhuoqun , Zhao Yan , Liu Zhijun , Wang Yili
Published: August 2022

Tumor infiltration pattern (INF) and tumor origin site were reported to significantly affect the prognosis of gastric cancer (GC), while the immune status under these contexts is not clear. In this study, we correlated the density and phenotype of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) with INF and the tumor origin site to reflect the biological behavior of tumors from a new perspective and also determined their effects on overall survival (OS) and other related clinicopathological features in archival samples of 147 gastric cancers with 10-year follow-up data. We found that the INFc growth pattern (an invasive growth without a distinct border) of GC lacked immune cell infiltration, particularly the cytotoxic T cells and their activated form. It is also significantly associated with an unfavorable prognosis (P < 0.001) and proximal site (P = 0.001), positive lymph node metastasis (P = 0.002), and later tumor–node–metastasis stage (P < 0.001). Moreover, the density and sub-type of TILs infiltration were significantly different in disparate differentiated areas for the tumor tissue with INFb. Compared with distal gastric cancer, proximal gastric cancers were prone to grow in an INFc pattern (P = 0.001) and infiltrated with fewer TILs, experiencing a shorter survival time (P = 0.013). Multivariate analysis showed that only the INF and the density of TILs were demonstrated to be the independent prognostic factors of OS for the GC. We concluded that GC with an aggressive growth pattern arising from proximal sites always had a weak immune response and resulted in a poor prognosis. The interaction between them and their synergistic or antagonistic effects in the development of tumors need to be further studied. This study opens up a new perspective for research on the biological behavior of the tumor.
Chronic granulomatous disease and McLeod syndrome: Stem cell transplant and transfusion support in a 2-year-old patient—a case report
Authors: Helander Louise , McKinney Chris , Kelly Kathleen , Mack Samantha , Sanders Mary , Gurley Janice , Dumont Larry J. , Annen Kyle
Published: August 2022

Chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) with McLeod neuroacanthocytosis syndrome (MLS) is a contiguous gene deletion disorder characterized by defective phagocytic function and decreased Kell antigen expression. CGD cure is achieved through hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) usually in the peri-pubescent years. The presence of MLS makes peri-transfusion support complex, however. Herein, we present the youngest known case of HSCT for CGD in the setting of MLS. A 2-year-old male patient was diagnosed with CGD plus MLS. Due to the severity of the child’s systemic fungal infection at diagnosis, HSCT was deemed the best treatment option despite his small size and age. A related, matched donor was available, and a unique red blood cell support plan had been implemented. Reduced-intensity conditioning was used to reduce the transplant-related mortality risk associated with myeloablative protocols. The transplant course was uneventful; autologous red blood cell (RBC) transfusion support was successful and allowed for the avoidance of possible antibody formation if allogeneic units had been used. The patient achieved 1-year relapse-free survival. The developed protocols provide a viable path to transplant in the very young, and early transplant to cure could reduce disease-related morbidity.
Immune tolerance induced by hematopoietic stem cell infusion after HLA identical sibling kidney transplantation
Authors: Huang Hongfeng , Shen Qixia , Zhou Jingyi , Yang Xiuyan , Cai Qiuqin , Shen Jia , Feng Shi , Xie Wenqing , Jiang Hong , Chen Jianghua
Published: August 2022

After the first attempt to induce operational tolerance, it has taken decades to implement it in clinical practice. Recipients with Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) identical sibling donors were enrolled. Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) infusion was done after HLA identical sibling kidney transplantation (KTx). Three cases included were followed up for over 8 years. The perioperative conditioning protocol included anti-CD20, rabbit anti-thymocyte globulin (ATG), total lymphoid irradiation (TLI), and cyclophosphamide. Infusion of CD3+ cells and CD34+ cells was conducted. The withdrawal of immunosuppression was determined by mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) and graft biopsy. Case 1 and Case 2 showed persistent chimerism, while chimerism was not detected in Case 3. All three recipients showed a low-level response to donor-specific stimulation. Case 1 and Case 3 met the withdrawal rules at 16 and 32 months after transplantation, respectively. Graft function was stable, and no rejection signs were observed in routine biopsies until 94 and 61 months after transplantation. Case 2 was diagnosed with graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) 9 months after transplantation and recovered after an enhanced immunosuppression therapy. Steroids were withdrawn after 1 year, and 0.5 mg tacrolimus twice a day is currently the only immunosuppression at 8 years and 8 months. In conclusion, our clinical experience indicated the efficacy of non-myeloablative conditioning protocol for tolerance induction in HLA identical patients. Complete chimerism might be a risk factor for GVHD.
A review of the genetic determinants of praziquantel resistance in Schistosoma mansoni: Is praziquantel and intestinal schistosomiasis a perfect match?
Authors: Summers Shannan , Bhattacharyya Tapan , Allan Fiona , Stothard J Russell , Edielu Andrew , Webster Bonnie L. , Miles Michael A. , Bustinduy Amaya L.
Published: August 2022

Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease (NTD) caused by parasitic trematodes belonging to the Schistosoma genus. The mainstay of schistosomiasis control is the delivery of a single dose of praziquantel (PZQ) through mass drug administration (MDA) programs. These programs have been successful in reducing the prevalence and intensity of infections. Due to the success of MDA programs, the disease has recently been targeted for elimination as a public health problem in some endemic settings. The new World Health Organization (WHO) treatment guidelines aim to provide equitable access to PZQ for individuals above two years old in targeted areas. The scale up of MDA programs may heighten the drug selection pressures on Schistosoma parasites, which could lead to the emergence of PZQ resistant schistosomes. The reliance on a single drug to treat a disease of this magnitude is worrying should drug resistance develop. Therefore, there is a need to detect and track resistant schistosomes to counteract the threat of drug resistance to the WHO 2030 NTD roadmap targets. Until recently, drug resistance studies have been hindered by the lack of molecular markers associated with PZQ resistance. This review discusses recent significant advances in understanding the molecular basis of PZQ action in S. mansoni and proposes additional genetic determinants associated with PZQ resistance. PZQ resistance will also be analyzed in the context of alternative factors that may decrease efficacy within endemic field settings, and the most recent treatment guidelines recommended by the WHO.
Hydrodynamic effects of large-scale suspended mussel farms: Field observations and numerical simulations
Authors: Zhong Wei , Lin Jun , Zou Qingping , Wen Ying , Yang Wei , Yang Guanlin
Published: August 2022

The hydrodynamic effects of the largest suspended mussel farms in the East China Sea near Gouqi Island, was investigated using a high-resolution 3D ocean model and field observations. To capture the 3D farm effects on hydrodynamics, an additional depth dependent momentum sink term was introduced in the model. The model results compared well with the field observations. The present model and observational results indicate that the presence of farms reduces the flow by more than 79%, 55%, and 34% in the upper, middle, and bottom layers at the farm center, respectively. According to the harmonic analysis of predicted current, mussel farms reduce the magnitude of the semidiurnal tidal current and also alter the magnitude and direction of the diurnal tidal current. The blockage by the farm weakens the Eulerian residual tidal current within the farm in the NE-SW direction, while strengthens that at the edge of the farm in the SE-NW direction. Cross sections, Sec1 and Sec2 are perpendicular to these two major residual currents and intercept with the center of the farm from SE to NW and from NE to SW respectively. The farm effect on the total water flux over a month through the Sec2 displays a semi-lunar periodic oscillation and is one order of magnitude smaller than that at Sec1. An asymmetry tidal current was observed in the farm north of Gouqi Island. The field observation of vertical profiles of current suggests that the thickness of surface canopy boundary layer can reach 5 m upstream from the farm during flood tide, increases gradually downstream up to 10 m under the cumulative influences of the farm. And a wake zone was observed downstream from the farm during flood tide. Better understanding of farm-induced hydrodynamic effects provides insight into how to optimize farm layouts based on local hydrodynamics, to maximize farm productivity and minimize environmental impacts.
Two-step widefield fundus fluorescein angiography-assisted laser photocoagulation in pediatric retinal vasculopathy: A pilot study
Authors: Peng Jie , Ren Jianing , Zhang Xuerui , Yang Yuan , Zou Yihua , Xiao Haodong , Xu Yu , Zhao Peiquan
Published: August 2022

Purpose

To introduce the procedures of two-step fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA) and evaluate its utility in the management of pediatric retinal vasculopathy.

Materials and methods

In this retrospective study, medical records of 12 patients who received two-step FFA were studied. The two-step FFA consisted of step 1 [low-dose (LD)] FFA at an intravenous dose of 1.5 mg/kg fluorescein, followed by step 2 [reduced dose (RD)] FFA at a dose of 6.2 mg/kg fluorescein. Demographic data, including age, gender, diagnosis, weight, gestational age, birth weight, and weight on the examination day were taken, were collected. The results of two-step FFA and treatment were recorded.

Results

A total of 20 eyes were studied. The top 5 common FFA changes in RD-FFA included peripheral avascular zone (15 eyes), fluorescein leakage (10 eyes), supernumerous vascular branching (10 eyes), neovascularization (NV) (8 eyes), and absence of the foveal avascular zone (6 eyes). LD-FFA was efficient to show all the NV without severe vitreous dye in 8/8 (100.0%) eyes with NV, partial peripheral avascular zone in 11/15 (73.3%) eyes, while RD-FFA always offered more information in all the eyes. Thirteen eyes had laser photocoagulation under the guidance of LD-FFA. In 4 (30.8%) eyes, RD-FFA revealed more lesions and an immediate relaser was performed. Laser photocoagulation was successfully performed in all the 13 eyes in one session without being rearranged. After a median follow-up of 28.1 months, all the eyes were in a stable status.

Conclusion

Step-one LD-FFA acted as a pre-FFA to show the NV, and step-two RD-FFA acted as a double-check. The modified strategy may be a helpful clinical adjuvant in the laser photocoagulation of pediatric retinal disorders, especially for young ophthalmologists.
Cutaneous vasculitis and vasculopathy in the era of COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Maronese Carlo Alberto , Zelin Enrico , Avallone Gianluca , Moltrasio Chiara , Romagnuolo Maurizio , Ribero Simone , Quaglino Pietro , Marzano Angelo Valerio
Published: August 2022

Cutaneous vasculitides encompass a heterogeneous group of clinicopathological entities, which may occur as single-organ vasculitis of the skin or present as skin-limited variant of systemic vasculitis (i.e., skin-limited ANCA-associated vasculitis), and are triggered by various factors, including infections, drugs and vaccines. The COVID-19 pandemic has challenged us with a variety of both disease- and vaccine-associated skin manifestations, including vasculitis. Among the latter, cutaneous small-vessel vasculitis, previously known as leukocytoclastic vasculitis, seems to be the most reported in either scenario, i.e., natural infection and vaccination. Vasculopathy without true vasculitic changes on histology develops in but a minority of cases, mostly severe/critical COVID-19 patients, and appears to be the result of endothelial injury due to pauci-immune thromboembolic mechanisms. Herein, we provide an overview of the available literature on COVID-19-associated and anti-SARS-CoV-2-vaccine-associated cutaneous vasculitis. Although evidence is mostly limited to isolated reports, with a proportion of cases lacking histopathological confirmation, ample overlap with pre-pandemic forms is shown.
Dietary supplementation with potassium-magnesium sulfate modulates the antioxidant capacity, immunity, and gut microbiota in weaned piglets
Authors: Cao Shuting , Huang Kaiyong , Wen Xiaolu , Gao Jingchun , Cui Bailei , Yao Kang , Zhan Xianliang , Hu Shenglan , Wu Qiwen , Xiao Hao , Zhu Cui , Jiang Zongyong , Wang Li
Published: August 2022

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of different levels of potassium magnesium sulfateon (PMS) on growth performance, diarrhea rate, intestinal morphology, antioxidant capacity, intestinal immunity, and gut microbiota in weaned piglets. A total of 216 weaned piglets were randomly divided into six dietary groups: the basal diet with 0% (CON), 0.15, 0.3, 0.45, 0.6, and 0.75% PMS. The results showed that the ADFI of 29–42 days and 1–42 days was linearly and quadratically increased by the PMS supplementation (P < 0.05), and significantly reduced the diarrhea rate in weaned piglets (P < 0.05). Moreover, dietary supplementation with PMS significantly reduced the serum adrenaline and noradrenaline levels in weaned piglets (P < 0.05). Furthermore, 0.3% PMS significantly increased the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in the jejunum (P < 0.05) and tended to increase the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the jejunal mucosa of piglets (P < 0.1). Additionally, dietary supplementation with PMS significantly reduced the interleukin-1β (IL-1β) level in the jejunal mucosa (P < 0.05), and 0.3% PMS increased the serum IgM content in piglets (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the analysis of colonic microbiota by 16S RNA sequencing showed that the addition of PMS increased the Shannon index (P < 0.05) and Observed Species index (P < 0.05). Based on linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) and T-test analysis, the addition of PMS increased the relative abundance of Ruminococcaceae and Peptostreptococcaceae in the colonic digesta (P < 0.05). Spearman analysis showed that there was a positive correlation between intestinal GSH-Px activity and the relative abundance of Peptostreptococcaceae. These results showed that dietary supplementation with PMS could improve growth performance, alleviate diarrhea incidence, and modulate the antioxidant capacity and intestinal immunity in weaned piglets, which was partially related to the significant changes in colonic microbiota composition.
The role of sleep state and time of day in modulating breathing in epilepsy: implications for sudden unexpected death in epilepsy
Authors: Joyal Katelyn G. , Kreitlow Benjamin L. , Buchanan Gordon F.
Published: August 2022

Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) is the leading cause of death among patients with refractory epilepsy. While the exact etiology of SUDEP is unknown, mounting evidence implicates respiratory dysfunction as a precipitating factor in cases of seizure-induced death. Dysregulation of breathing can occur in epilepsy patients during and after seizures as well as interictally, with many epilepsy patients exhibiting sleep-disordered breathing (SDB), such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The majority of SUDEP cases occur during the night, with the victim found prone in or near a bed. As breathing is modulated in both a time-of-day and sleep state-dependent manner, it is relevant to examine the added burden of nocturnal seizures on respiratory function. This review explores the current state of understanding of the relationship between respiratory function, sleep state and time of day, and epilepsy. We highlight sleep as a particularly vulnerable period for individuals with epilepsy and press that this topic warrants further investigation in order to develop therapeutic interventions to mitigate the risk of SUDEP.
Case Report: Acupuncture is an effective treatment for olfactory dysfunction in the post COVID-19 condition
Authors: Morita Akira , Murakami Aya , Uchihara Takushu , Ohashi Noriyuki , Ryu Koichi , Watanabe Yuki , Ochi Sadayuki , Okudaira Kazuho , Hirasaki Yoshiro , Namiki Takao
Published: August 2022

Olfactory dysfunction in the post COVID-19 condition reported worldwide are refractory for some patients. For this reason, appropriate treatment is desired. In this article, we describe two cases of olfactory dysfunction in the post COVID-19 condition that was improved by traditional acupuncture treatment. By using the Yingxiang point (LI20), which is said to improve the sense of smell since ancient times, acupuncture treatment was performed 1–2 times a week in two patients about 6 and 7 months after the diagnosis of COVID-19. Acupuncture needles with a body length of 30 mm and a body diameter of 0.16 mm were inserted about 10 mm deep into the skin. We stimulated LI20 of the right and left sides until the patients felt the de qi sensation (acupuncture resonance), and left needles in the points for about 15 min. Immediately after the acupuncture treatment, the symptoms of olfactory dysfunction were alleviated, and the improvement in olfactory dysfunction lasted for 2–4 days. As the number of acupuncture treatments increased, the time until the flareup of olfactory dysfunction was prolonged, and the symptoms tended to decrease. In our experience, the acupuncture treatment was effective in a short period for treating residual olfactory dysfunction of the post COVID-19 condition, suggesting that acupuncture may serve as an adjunct to modern medical treatment, and it may also be a new option for patients who are resistant to Western medical treatment or unable to continue treatment because of side effects. In conclusion, acupuncture may be a new option for patients who are resistant to modern medical treatment or who are unable to continue treatment because of side effects.