bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Association between Visceral Adipose Tissue and Coronary Atherosclerosis in Thai Postmortem Cases
Authors: Prompetch Wanpreedee , Phuangphung Peerayuht
Published: May 2024

Objective: To determine the correlation between visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and degree of coronary artery stenosis in the Thai population.
Materials and Methods: This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted in 220 Thai postmortem cases. Sex, age, weight, height, waist and hip circumferences were recorded for each case. The intra-abdominal VAT weight of each site was assessed during the autopsy procedure, and degrees of stenosis for three coronary arteries (left anterior descending artery (LAD), right coronary artery (RCA) and left circumflex artery (LCX)) were evaluated in histological examination. Descriptive statistics, bivariate correlation, and multivariate linear regression were used to determine the correlations between VAT and degrees of coronary artery stenosis.
Results: There were 108 female and 112 male subjects with a mean age of 45.95 years old. Waist circumference, waist-hip ratio and VAT in the male subjects were significantly higher than in the female subjects (p<0.001). VAT was well correlated with waist circumference and waist-hip ratio (p<0.001). VAT weights were positively correlated with degrees of LAD, RCA and LCX stenosis, with coefficient correlations (r) of 0.561, 0.453 and 0.451, respectively (p<0.001). Mesenteric and peri-renal adipose tissues produced better correlations than the other sites. Multivariate linear regression showed that sex and age were correlated with stenosis in all three coronary arteries (p<0.001), and mesenteric and peri-renal adipose tissues had strong correlations with LAD stenosis (p<0.001).
Conclusion: VAT weights from all sites were correlated with degrees of coronary artery stenosis. Mesenteric and peri-renal adipose tissues produced better correlations than the other sites.
Novel horizons in anticoagulation: the emerging role of factor XI inhibitors across different settings
Authors: Cohen Omri , Santagata Davide , Ageno Walter
Published: May 2024

Anticoagulants have long been fundamental in preventing and treating thromboembolic disorders, with a recent shift of focus towards direct oral anticoagulants, thanks to their ease of use, efficacy, and safety. Despite these advancements, bleeding complications remain a major concern with any anticoagulant, highlighting the need for safer drugs. Factor XI (FXI) inhibitors have emerged as promising agents in this regard, offering a novel approach by targeting upstream factors in the coagulation system. Phase II trials have shown encouraging outcomes, indicating a reduced bleeding risk compared to that associated with traditional anticoagulants, particularly in the context of cardiovascular disease management when combined with antiplatelet therapy. However, the variability in findings and limited efficacy data call for a cautious interpretation pending insights from phase III trials. These trials are essential for validating the potential of FXI inhibitors to balance bleeding risk reduction and maintain anticoagulant efficacy. This review explores the pharmacology, potential indications, clinical data, and future directions of FXI inhibitors, providing a perspective on their evolving role in anticoagulant therapy. It also provides a detailed analysis of data from published clinical trials on FXI inhibitors in various indications. Preliminary data from ongoing trials are also outlined. As the field moves forward, a cautiously optimistic outlook can be expected, focusing on comprehensive data from phase III trials to define the role of FXI inhibitors in various clinical scenarios.
Checkpoint inhibition enhances cell contacts between CD4+ T cells and Hodgkin-Reed-Sternberg cells of classic Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Yadigaroglu Kübra , Scharf Sonja , Gretser Steffen , Schäfer Hendrik , Deli Aresu Sadeghi Shoreh , Loth Andreas G. , Yegoryan Hasmik , Schmitz Roland , Donnadieu Emmanuel , Hansmann Martin-Leo , Hartmann Sylvia
Published: May 2024

Although checkpoint molecules like CTLA-4 and PD1 have been described several years ago, checkpoint inhibitors such as nivolumab (an anti-PD-1 antibody) have only recently been used to treat classic Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL). Several studies have shown convincing therapeutic effects of nivolumab in cHL. However, the mechanism of action of nivolumab in cHL is not fully understood. The aim of this study was to monitor changes in cell motility and cell contacts after administration of nivolumab to an in vitro model of cHL as well as to native hyperplastic lymphoid tissue and native human tissue from cHL. In both tissue and in vitro, CD4+, CD8+, CD30+ and CD20+ cell velocities were unchanged after nivolumab incubation. In contrast, in primary cHL tissue, the duration of cell contacts between CD4+ T cells and Hodgkin-Reed-Sternberg cells was significantly increased after 5 hours of nivolumab treatment, and the number of contacts with HRS cells was also slightly increased for CD4+ T cells (not significant), suggesting that CD4+ T cells in particular contribute to the cytotoxicity observed as a result of nivolumab therapy. There was no change in the duration of cell contacts in the hyperplastic lymphoid tissue after nivolumab incubation. In conclusion, we show here for the first time by imaging of native lymphoma tissue an enhanced interaction of CD4+ T cells and Hodgkin-Reed-Sternberg cells in cHL after nivolumab administration.
Lợi thế so sánh giữa các địa phương trong thu hút đầu tư trực tiếp nước ngoài dưới góc độ marketing địa phương: Nghiên cứu tại tỉnh Bình Dương và tỉnh Đồng Nai
Authors: Lê Mai Hải , Trần Thị Hồng Xiêm , Trịnh Văn Phụ , Nguyễn Thị Thanh Tâm , Cao Văn Truyền , Đào Minh Hải
Published: May 2024

Nghiên cứu này nhằm phân tích các yếu tố marketing địa phương trong thu hút đầu tư trực tiếp nước ngoài của mỗi tỉnh thành: Tỉnh Bình Dương, Đồng Nai và xác định lợi thế so sánh giữa hai địa phương. Nhóm tác giả đã kế thừa mô hình nghiên cứu Kotler & cộng sự (2002), Kotler & cộng sự (2010), đồng thời kết hợp một số nghiên cứu trong nước khác về khung lý thuyết marketing địa phương trong thu hút đầu tư và điều chỉnh các biến phù hợp tình hình nghiên cứu tại tỉnh Bình Dương và tỉnh Đồng Nai. Kết quả nghiên cứu đã chỉ ra rằng các yếu tố “Chính quyền”, “Truyền thông - quảng bá”, “Phân phối - hỗ trợ”, “Giá cả - chi phí”, “Công chúng”, “Cung sản phẩm” tác động đến thu hút đầu tư. Đồng thời, nghiên cứu cho thấy trong quá trình thu hút đầu tư của các địa phương, không có địa phương nào có lợi thế tuyệt đối so với các địa phương khác, đối với mỗi địa phương có các lợi thế riêng trong quá trình lựa chọn và thu hút nhà đầu tư, lĩnh vực đầu tư.
Análisis y reforzamiento estructural del Templo de Santo Domingo: Proyecto total - Libro resumen
Authors:   Universidad del Azuay, Vázquez-Calero José , Andrade-Ambrosi Felipe ,   Universidad del Azuay, García-Avalos Carlos ,   Universidad del Azuay, Narváez-Vásquez Mateo ,   Universidad del Azuay, Carrión-Celi Mishel ,   Universidad del Azuay
Published: May 2024

La Basílica de Nuestra Señora del Rosario, también conocida como la Iglesia de Santo Domingo, es un destacado patrimonio de Cuenca, siendo la segunda iglesia más grande de la ciudad. Su construcción se inició a principios del siglo XX y alberga valiosas obras de arte, incluyendo murales, cuadros y esculturas que datan del siglo XVI, junto con reliquias religiosas. Esta edificación ecléctica se destaca por sus dos torres neoclásicas de 40 metros de altura, construidas con ladrillo artesanal, techos de teja y pisos de madera, entre otros elementos distintivos. Sin embargo, tras un terremoto en 2023, la iglesia sufrió daños estructurales significativos que requieren intervención urgente debido a su valor patrimonial. El análisis estructural reveló que los muros de albañilería, aunque tradicionales, presentan vulnerabilidades ante fuerzas sísmicas, lo que ha llevado a la Universidad del Azuay a colaborar en la evaluación y propuesta de refuerzo de la edificación. Se ha establecido un convenio de cooperación para llevar a cabo estudios de mecánica de suelos, peligro sísmico, vibración ambiental y ensayos destructivos para garantizar la seguridad y preservación de la iglesia. Este informe inicial destaca la importancia de contar con los recursos necesarios para completar los estudios requeridos y asegurar la integridad estructural de la iglesia de Santo Domingo en Cuenca. 290 páginas ISBN: 978-9942-645-73-9 e-ISBN: 978-9942-645-74-6
Compendio de Derecho Administrativo: Temas fundamentales
Authors:   Universidad del Azuay, Ochoa-Rodríguez Guillermo
Published: May 2024

Es una obra que ofrece una visión integral y didáctica de los temas fundamentales de esta materia en constante evolución. Con un enfoque teórico-práctico, el libro establece un diálogo entre la normativa legal y la realidad social y política, siendo una herramienta útil para abogados, profesores, investigadores y estudiantes especializados en administración pública. Desde el desarrollo sostenible y las políticas hídricas hasta la responsabilidad extracontractual del Estado, pasando por los derechos humanos emergentes y la teoría del dominio público, cada capítulo aborda aspectos relevantes y actuales del Derecho Administrativo. Destacando la importancia de promover y proteger los derechos fundamentales para fortalecer la cohesión social, este compendio es una guía imprescindible para comprender el papel de esta disciplina en la sociedad contemporánea y su adaptación a un modelo sostenible. 216 páginas ISBN: 9789942-645-41-8 EISBN: 978-9942-645-42-5
The Effect of Deposition Temperature on Structural, Morphological, and Dielectric Properties of Yttria-Doped Zirconia Thin Films
Authors: Rüzgar Şerif , Eratilla Veysel
Published: May 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of deposition temperature on the structural, optical, morphological, and dielectric properties of yttria-stabilised zirconia (YSZ) films prepared by sol-gel spin-coating method. X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements of YSZ films showed that the peaks of the cubic phase were prominent and the peak intensities increased with deposition temperature. The crystallite size, dislocation density, and microstrain of the thin films were identified by XRD. It was observed that the crystal size of the YSZ thin films increased from 16 nm to 22 nm with the deposition temperature. The surface roughness of the thin films was found to have changed as revealed by Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) measurements. The roughness increased from 7.72 nm to 11.92 nm with increasing temperature. The optical transmittance of the YSZ thin films was investigated in the wavelength range 200-900 nm and was found to increase slightly with increasing deposition temperature. Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor (MOS) devices were fabricated from these YSZ materials for dielectric characterization. The dielectric properties of the Ag/YSZ/n-Si MOS structure were investigated. It was found that the capacitance, conductivity and other dielectric parameters of these structures are strongly frequency dependent.
John Campbell’s Authorship of Reflections on the Rise and Progress of the British Constitution (London, 1761)
Authors: Binney Matthew
Published: May 2024

The unattributed pamphlet entitled Reflections on the Rise and Progress of the British Constitution (London, 1761) is the work of the mid-eighteenth-century historian, John Campbell (1708–75). In early 1761, Campbell wrote a series of articles in the London Evening Post, which he then expanded into a pamphlet, Reflections. The pamphlet paralleled the focus of Campbell’s previous works, which promoted government policy that addressed economic inequality between England and Scotland by emphasizing British interest. In his previous works and in Reflections, British interest was supported by drawing on Campbell’s ‘Old Whig,’ ‘Country’ principles, which encouraged independence, fiscal management, and a balanced constitution. This emphasis on British interest not only demonstrated his support for George III’s new reign but also defended the policies of the king’s favourite, John Stuart, 3rd earl of Bute, whose administration, the pamphlet implied, would secure a peace that would extend the benefits of commerce to all in Great Britain.
Commentary: Improving Health Globally Through Education
Authors: Loomer Peter M.
Published: May 2024

In his commentary, Dr. Loomer discusses the need for novel solutions to address healthcare challenges in resource-poor communities while potentially adapting such solutions to address health problems in our own resource-rich communities.
Using Patients as Participants in Dental Board Exams for Licensure — A Contemporary Demonstration of Reductio ad Absurdum
Authors: Vernillo Anthony
Published: May 2024

In his commentary, Dr. Vernillo supports Dr. Schloss's argument and goes further. He asserts that given advances in current computer and informational technology, board examinations that adequately assess dental students' clinical skills without the use of human subjects are doable, ethically justified, and should be mandated.
Interprofessional Education and Practice: An Opportunity to Reunite the Mouth with the Body and Make the Patient Whole
Authors: Klink Kathleen , Joskow Renee
Published: May 2024

Kathleen Klink and Renée Joskow embrace the vision of integration of oral and general health, which originated with the surgeon general's report Oral Health in America in 2000, and describe in detail important conferences, reports, and policies that have arisen since then to promote the concept of interprofessional collaboration for oral health professionals. The authors emphasize the need to integrate education across disciplines, using new teaching models; highlight the importance of engaging the public using outreach and education; and cogently argue for policy and financial changes supporting interdisciplinary partnerships.
Building a Culture of Collaboration: Interprofessional Education and Practice
Authors: Haber Judith
Published: May 2024

Judith Haber effectively argues for a greater integration of oral health and general health in the teaching of dental, medical, and nursing students, and emphasizes that it is ourobligation as teachers and educators to "reach across academic silos" to improve oral and overall health. She clearly outlines various challenges to this goal, but is able to envision great opportunities in overcoming these challenges
Guest Editorial: Doing the right thing in the Face of Scientific Uncertainty
Authors: Vernillo Anthony T.
Published: May 2024

How might dentistry make further progress in extending preventive benefits to underserved populations, especially in cases of scientific uncertainty? To address that question, a senior dental student at the New York University College of Dentistry, and faculty mentors focus on dental education and scientific uncertainty, and use the link between human papillomavirus (HPV) and oropharyngeal cancer as a case in point in this issue of the Journal of the Academy of Distinguished Educators (JADE).
Why JADE? Why now?
Authors: Northridge Mary E , Robbins Miriam
Published: May 2024

Because of the scope and scale of changes in the present age, JADE intends to invite experts in higher education to face off on the thorny issues confronting higher education, even as it endeavors to foster interdisciplinary and interprofessional collaboration. This inaugural issue is a model for the sorts of topics that JADE intends to tackle.
Guest Editorial: The Dental Hygienist's Role in Addressing the Challenge of Global Oral Disease
Authors: Birenz Shirley
Published: May 2024

In this guest editorial, Shirley Birenz offers a dental hygiene perspective on the importance of interprofessional collaborations in mitigating the global burden of oral disease.
Guest Editorial: Interprofessional Education and Practice: A Concept Whose Time Has Come
Authors: Russell Stefanie L.
Published: May 2024

Empirically, there is evidence that interprofessional collaboration improves educational outcomes, quality of research, and patient and population health outcomes over any one discipline working alone. Bringing together various skills and individual experiences into a team, communication, and coordination of care are enhanced, scientific inquiry deepens and expands, and health and safety improve while meeting the needs of underserved, diverse populations is more achievable when various parties and stakeholders come together to work on a problem together.
Guest Editorial: Do EHRs Affect Students' Abilities to Develop Critical-Thinking Skills?
Authors: Ferraiolo Debra M. , Spivakovsky Silvia
Published: May 2024

This guest editorial opens the debate over the impact of EHR on dental education to ensure that all relevant perspectives are heard, including those of the authors featured in this issue of JADE. In this way, we can best ensure that EHRs' promise to enhance student learning and patient care is achieved without the peril of diminished critical thinking of future generations of oral health professionals.
KAJIAN SOSIOLOGI KOMUNIKASI KAUM BAWAH TERKAIT PANDEMI COVID-19; PERSPEKTIK HERMENEUTIKA SOSIAL OLEH ART TANGERANG
Authors: Yanuar Fit , Ekayanthi Daesy
Published: May 2024

Masyarakat kaum bawah mempunyai cara sendiri dalam memahami fenomena dunia. Memahami kejadian pandemi Covid-19 dan solusi penanganannya tidak mudah bagi mereka. Paper ini mengkaji sosiologi komunikasi kaum bawah Indonesia yang diwakili oleh asisten rumah tangga (ART) Tangerang dalam memahami dan mengkomunikasikan pandemi Covid-19 dan program vaksinasi. Kajian ini disokong oleh teoritika hermeneutika sosial menurut alur pemikiran Hans-Georg Gadamer. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa secara sosiologis, ART Tangerang tidak dapat memahami pandemi Covid-19 dan menolak program vaksinasi. Sebagai hasil dari tafsir sosial, mereka menjadikan hal ini sebagai materi pembicaraan lisan di dalam lingkungan sosial.Kata kunci: sosiologi komunikasi, pandemi Covid-19, vaksinasi, hermeneutika sosial.
Effects of different sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors in heart failure with reduced or preserved ejection fraction: a network meta-analysis
Authors: Lan Xiaohua , Zhu Huijing , Cao Yanjie , Hu Yue , Fan Xingman , Zhang Kaijie , Wu Mengdi
Published: May 2024

Background

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to explore the effects of different sodium–glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) on prognosis and cardiac structural remodeling in patients with heart failure (HF).

Methods

Relevant studies published up to 20 March 2024 were retrieved from PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library CNKI, China Biomedical Literature Service, VIP, and WanFang databases. We included randomized controlled trials of different SGLT2i and pooled the prognosis data of patients with HF. We compared the efficacy of different SGLT2i in patients with HF and conducted a sub-analysis based on left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF).

Results

We identified 77 randomized controlled trials involving 43,561 patients. The results showed that SGLT2i significantly enhanced outcomes in HF, including a composite of hospitalizations for HF and cardiovascular death, individual hospitalizations for HF, Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ) scores, left atrial volume index (LAVi), and LVEF among all HF patients (P < 0.05) compared to a placebo. Sotagliflozin was superior to empagliflozin [RR = 0.88, CI (0.79–0.97)] and dapagliflozin [RR = 0.86, CI (0.77–0.96)] in reducing hospitalizations for HF and CV death. Dapagliflozin significantly reduced hospitalizations [RR = 0.51, CI (0.33–0.80)], CV death [RR = 0.73, CI (0.54–0.97)], and all-cause mortality [RR = 0.69, CI (0.48–0.99)] in patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). SGLT2i also plays a significant role in improving cardiac remodeling and quality of life (LVMi, LVEDV, KCQQ) (P < 0.05). Among patients with HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), SGLT2i significantly improved cardiac function in HFpEF patients (P < 0.05). In addition, canagliflozin [RR = 0.09, CI (0.01–0.86)] demonstrated greater safety compared to sotagliflozin in a composite of urinary and reproductive infections of HFpEF patients.

Conclusion

Our systematic review showed that SGLT2i generally enhances the prognosis of patients with HF. Sotagliflozin demonstrated superiority over empagliflozin and dapagliflozin in a composite of hospitalization for HF and CV death in the overall HF patients. Canagliflozin exhibited greater safety compared to sotagliflozin in a composite of urinary and reproductive infections of HFpEF. Overall, the efficacy of SGLT2i was greater in HFrEF patients than in HFpEF patients.
Retrospective study revealed integration of CNV-seq and karyotype analysis is an effective strategy for prenatal diagnosis of chromosomal abnormalities
Authors: Ge Yunsheng , Chen Jiayan , Huang Yanru , Shao Di , Wang Wenbo , Cai Meijiao , Tan Meihua , Zhang Jian
Published: May 2024

Fetal chromosomal abnormalities are the main cause of adverse pregnancy outcomes and are the focus of invasive prenatal diagnosis. Recent studies have demonstrated that various techniques have distinct advantages. Achieving high-resolution and effective prenatal chromosomal abnormality diagnosis requires a multi-technology integration strategy. Based on retrospective samples from a single center, we propose that integrating CNV-seq and karyotype analysis is an effective strategy for prenatal diagnosis of chromosomal abnormalities. In this study, 13.80% of the pregnant women (347/2514) were found to have likely pathogenic or pathogenic fetal chromosomal abnormalities using this integrated approach. Among these cases, 53.89% (187/347) had consistent chromosomal abnormalities detected by both CNV-seq and karyotyping analysis, while 19.02% (66/347) and 27.09% (94/347) of cases were diagnosed solely by CNV-seq or karyotyping, respectively. Fetal chromosomal abnormalities were identified in 18.39% of samples with abnormal ultrasound, which was significantly higher than the percentage found in samples with normal ultrasound (p < 0.001). Samples with multiple ultrasound abnormalities and single-indicator ultrasound abnormalities such as nasal bone dysplasia, renal dysplasia, or echogenic fetal bowel also had higher rates of chromosomal abnormalities (p < 0.05) compared to normal samples. Analyzing samples with Trio family data (N = 521) revealed that about 94% of variants of uncertain significance were inherited from parents and were non-pathogenic. Overall, integrating CNV-seq and karyotype analysis is an effective strategy for prenatal diagnosis of chromosomal abnormalities. This study provides valuable insights for correlating prenatal screening indicators with chromosomal abnormalities.
Drug survival superiority of tumor necrosis factor inhibitors and interleukin-17 inhibitors over Janus kinase inhibitors and interleukin-12/23 inhibitors in German psoriatic arthritis outpatients: retrospective analysis of the RHADAR database
Authors: Strunz Patrick-Pascal , Englbrecht Matthias , Risser Linus Maximilian , Witte Torsten , Froehlich Matthias , Schmalzing Marc , Gernert Michael , Schmieder Astrid , Bartz-Bazzanella Peter , von der Decken Cay , Karberg Kirsten , Gauler Georg , Wurth Patrick , Späthling-Mestekemper Susanna , Kuhn Christoph , Vorbrüggen Wolfgang , Heck Johannes , Welcker Martin , Kleinert Stefan
Published: May 2024

Objective

Treatment options with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for psoriatic arthritis (PsA) have evolved over recent years. In addition to Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKi), four classes of biologic DMARDs (bDMARDs; interleukin [IL]-23 inhibitors [IL-23i], IL-12/23 inhibitors [IL-12/23i], tumor necrosis factor inhibitors [TNFi], and IL-17 inhibitors [IL-17i]) are currently approved for moderate to severe PsA treatment. There is minimal evidence of the persistence of these drugs among PsA outpatients in a real-world scenario during the period following the approval of JAKi. Therefore, we aimed to analyze the drug survival rates of biologic and JAKi therapies among German PsA outpatients during routine clinical care.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed PsA patients with a new prescription for a biologic or JAKi in the RHADAR database between January 2015 and October 2023. Kaplan-Meier Curves and Cox regression modelling were used to compare drug survival rates.

Results

1352 new prescriptions with bDMARDs (IL-12/23i [n=50], IL-23i [n=31], TNFi [n=774], IL-17i [n=360]) or JAKi (n=137) were identified. The 5-year drug survival rate was 67.8% for IL-17i, 62.3% for TNFi, 53.3% for JAKi, and 46.0% for IL-12/23i. Discontinuation probabilities for JAKi and IL-12/23i were significantly higher compared with TNFi (JAKi hazard ratio [HR] 1.66, [95% CI 1.23–2.24], p=0.001; IL-12/23i HR 1.54, [95% CI 1.02–2.33], p=0.042) and IL-17i (JAKi HR 1.77, [95% CI 1.27–2.47], p=0.001; IL-12/23i HR 1.64, [95% CI 1.06–2.55], p=0.027). JAKi-treated patients had more severe disease and more osteoarthritis (OA) compared to TNFi and more OA compared to IL-17i.

Conclusion

German PsA outpatients might persist longer with TNFi and IL-17i compared with IL-12/23i or JAKi. For TNFi, differences in subgroup characteristics and comorbidities (OA) may have affected drug survival rates. For IL-17i, the longer drug survival might not only be related to less OA compared to JAKi and, therefore, might be affected by other factors.
Mitigating aflatoxin B1 in high-moisture sorghum silage: Aspergillus flavus growth and aflatoxin B1 prediction
Authors: Gonda Mariana , Rufo Caterina , Gonzalez-Andujar Jose L. , Vero Silvana
Published: May 2024

Aspergillus flavus (A. flavus), a frequent contaminant in silage, is a significant producer of aflatoxins, notably the potent carcinogen aflatoxin B1. This contaminant poses a potential risk during the initial aerobic phase of ensiling. The present work studied the impact of temperature on A. flavus growth and aflatoxin B1 production in laboratory-scale sorghum silos during the initial aerobic phase. Growth curves of A. flavus were generated at various temperatures and modeled with the Gompertz model. Results indicated that the optimal temperature range for the maximum growth rate in sorghum mini-silos is between 25 and 30°C. Mold biomass and aflatoxin B1 levels were quantified using qPCR and HPLC, respectively. A predictive model for aflatoxin B1 synthesis in the initial ensiling phase was established, in function of grain moisture, external temperature, and time. Within the studied range, A. flavus’s initial concentration did not significantly influence aflatoxin B1 production. According to the model maximum aflatoxin production is expected at 30% moisture and 25°C temperature, after 6 days in the aerobic phase. Aflatoxin B1 production in such conditions was corroborated experimentally. Growth curves and aflatoxin B1 production highlighted that at 48 h of incubation under optimal conditions, aflatoxin B1 concentrations in mini-silos exceeded national legislation limits, reaching values close to 100 ppb. These results underscore the risk associated with A. flavus presence in ensiling material, emphasizing the importance of controlling its development in sorghum silos.
Whole-genome sequencing of marine water-derived Curvularia verruculosa KHW-7: a pioneering study
Authors: Baranda Payal , Islam Shaikhul , Modi Ashish , Mistry Harsh , Al Obaid Sami , Ansari Mohammad Javed , Yadav Virendra Kumar , Patel Ashish , Joshi Madhvi , Sahoo Dipak Kumar , Bariya Himanshu
Published: May 2024

Marine microorganisms are renowned for being a rich source of new secondary metabolites that are significant to humans. The fungi strain KHW-7 was isolated from the seawater collected from the Gulf of Khambhat, India, and identified as Curvularia verruculosa KHW-7. On a next-generation sequencing platform, C. verruculosa KHW-7’s whole-genome sequencing (WGS) and gene annotation were carried out using several bioinformatic methods. The 31.59 MB genome size, 52.3% GC, and 158 bp mean read length were discovered using WGS. This genome also contained 9,745 protein-coding genes, including 852 secreted proteins and 2048 transmembrane proteins. The antiSMASH algorithm used to analyze genomes found 25 secondary metabolite biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) that are abundant in terpene, non-ribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS), and polyketides type 1 (T1PKS). To our knowledge, this is the first whole-genome sequence report of C. verruculosa. The WGS analysis of C. verruculosa KHW-7 indicated that this marine-derived fungus could be an efficient generator of bioactive secondary metabolites and an important industrial enzyme, both of which demand further investigation and development.
Worldwide trend in research on Candida albicans and cancer correlations: a comprehensive bibliometric analysis
Authors: Tang Shiqin , Xu Yanyan , Li Xiaojing
Published: May 2024

Objective

Candida albicans (C. albicans), an opportunistic pathogen, is implicated in the carcinogenesis of various cancers, thereby significantly impacting human health. This study conducts an in-depth analysis of the prevailing research dynamics concerning the relationship between C. albicans and cancer over the past decade, offering a comprehensive overview of the knowledge structure and emerging focal points in this field through bibliometric scrutiny.

Methods

A methodical quantitative and visual scrutiny of pertinent literature from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) spanning the previous decade was carried out employing VOS Viewer and CiteSpace software.

Results

From January 1, 2014, to January 1, 2024, a comprehensive corpus of 1,259 articles was delineated. Prominent research institutions included the Egyptian Knowledge Bank, Cairo University, and King Saud University. The top three prolific countries were the United States, China, and India. Among the authors, Mohamed, Gehad G., Mahmoud, Walaa H., and Netea, Mihai G., emerged as the most prolific, with Pfaller, Ma being distinguished as the most frequently cited author. The journal Molecules published the highest number of articles, while PLoS One had the highest citation count. Nature had the highest impact factor. The research focal points in this field encompassed the interactions between C. albicans and cancer, the correlation with oral cancer, the underlying mechanisms of C. albicans carcinogenic potential, as well as antifungal and anticancer therapies.

Conclusion

This investigation constitutes a pioneering bibliometric analysis elucidating the trends and advancements in research regarding the correlation between C. albicans and cancer. Said analyses uncover the prevailing research focal points and trends, offering insightful guidance for subsequent inquiry in this domain.

Systematic review registration

https://www.webofscience.com/wos/woscc/summary/df33afba-f843-41e8-b932-cb3678eb8243-e92e7316/relevance/1
Wild thyme (Thymus serpyllum L.): a review of the current evidence of nutritional and preventive health benefits*
Authors: Jalil Banaz , Pischel Ivo , Feistel Björn , Suarez Cynthia , Blainski Andressa , Spreemann Ralf , Roth-Ehrang René , Heinrich Michael
Published: May 2024

Thymus serpyllum L. (Lamiaceae), known in English as ‘wild thyme’, is primarily found in the Palearctic realm (Eurasia, North Africa) and has been utilized traditionally for culinary, nutritional, medicinal, and aromatic purposes. The essential oil extracted from wild thyme is particularly noteworthy, being used extensively in the food industry as a flavoring agent and preservative. The plant’s aerial parts are commonly employed as an element of the diet (e.g., tea)/for culinary uses and in local/traditional medicine (primarily for managing respiratory and gastrointestinal conditions), similar to the use of common thyme. There is practically no information available on the species’ nutritional benefits. Pharmacological studies, including in vitro and in vivo research, alongside a limited number of clinical trials, have investigated extracts of Thymus serpyllum, although these extracts are often phytochemically poorly characterized in different experimental protocols and models. These studies have demonstrated a range of therapeutic effects, such as antimicrobial (notably the essential oil) and anti-inflammatory, as well as its preventative health benefits and nutritional value of wild thyme. Preclinical studies have corroborated the plant’s anti-inflammatory potential, particularly in conditions like inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) and irritable bowel syndromes (IBS). Additionally, evidence of hepatoprotective activities and benefits in managing metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular health issues, such as lipid metabolism regulation, cholesterol reduction, antidiabetic, antihypertensive, and immunomodulatory effects, have been observed predominantly in rodent models. Phytochemical analysis of wild thyme reveals an essential oil fraction below 1%, along with non-volatile compounds predominantly comprising phenolic acids (such as rosmarinic, salvianolic, and caffeic acids) and flavonoids (mainly glucosides of luteolin, apigenin, and their derivatives). These components are believed to contribute significantly to the plant’s medicinal, nutritional, and preventive health properties. Despite promising findings, there is a need for more rigorously designed controlled clinical trials using phytochemically characterized wild thyme. The plant has an excellent safety and tolerability record. This review at the interface of nutritional/preventive health properties and as pharmacological activities highlights the current role of wild thyme in nutrition and general healthcare as well as its future potential, and also points to important gaps in the literature.
Deep learning driven diagnosis of malignant soft tissue tumors based on dual-modal ultrasound images and clinical indexes
Authors: Xie Haiqin , Zhang Yudi , Dong Licong , Lv Heng , Li Xuechen , Zhao Chenyang , Tian Yun , Xie Lu , Wu Wangjie , Yang Qi , Liu Li , Sun Desheng , Qiu Li , Shen Linlin , Zhang Yusen
Published: May 2024

Background

Soft tissue tumors (STTs) are benign or malignant superficial neoplasms arising from soft tissues throughout the body with versatile pathological types. Although Ultrasonography (US) is one of the most common imaging tools to diagnose malignant STTs, it still has several drawbacks in STT diagnosis that need improving.

Objectives

The study aims to establish this deep learning (DL) driven Artificial intelligence (AI) system for predicting malignant STTs based on US images and clinical indexes of the patients.

Methods

We retrospectively enrolled 271 malignant and 462 benign masses to build the AI system using 5-fold validation. A prospective dataset of 44 malignant masses and 101 benign masses was used to validate the accuracy of system. A multi-data fusion convolutional neural network, named ultrasound clinical soft tissue tumor net (UC-STTNet), was developed to combine gray scale and color Doppler US images and clinic features for malignant STTs diagnosis. Six radiologists (R1-R6) with three experience levels were invited for reader study.

Results

The AI system achieved an area under receiver operating curve (AUC) value of 0.89 in the retrospective dataset. The diagnostic performance of the AI system was higher than that of one of the senior radiologists (AUC of AI vs R2: 0.89 vs. 0.84, p=0.022) and all of the intermediate and junior radiologists (AUC of AI vs R3, R4, R5, R6: 0.89 vs 0.75, 0.81, 0.80, 0.63; p <0.01). The AI system also achieved an AUC of 0.85 in the prospective dataset. With the assistance of the system, the diagnostic performances and inter-observer agreement of the radiologists was improved (AUC of R3, R5, R6: 0.75 to 0.83, 0.80 to 0.85, 0.63 to 0.69; p<0.01).

Conclusion

The AI system could be a useful tool in diagnosing malignant STTs, and could also help radiologists improve diagnostic performance.
The impact of the new ESTRO-ACROP target volume delineation guidelines for postmastectomy radiotherapy after implant-based breast reconstruction on breast complications
Authors: Park Jung Bin , Jang Bum-Sup , Chang Ji Hyun , Kim Jin Ho , Choi Chang Heon , Hong Ki Young , Jin Ung Sik , Chang Hak , Myung Yujin , Jeong Jae Hoon , Heo Chan Yeong , Kim In Ah , Shin Kyung Hwan
Published: May 2024

The European Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology–Advisory Committee in Radiation Oncology Practice (ESTRO-ACROP) updated a new target volume delineation guideline for postmastectomy radiotherapy (PMRT) after implant-based reconstruction. This study aimed to evaluate the impact on breast complications with the new guideline compared to the conventional guidelines. In total, 308 patients who underwent PMRT after tissue expander or permanent implant insertion from 2016 to 2021 were included; 184 received PMRT by the new ESTRO-ACROP target delineation (ESTRO-T), and 124 by conventional target delineation (CONV-T). The endpoints were major breast complications (infection, necrosis, dehiscence, capsular contracture, animation deformity, and rupture) requiring re-operation or re-hospitalization and any grade ≥2 breast complications. With a median follow-up of 36.4 months, the cumulative incidence rates of major breast complications at 1, 2, and 3 years were 6.6%, 10.3%, and 12.6% in the ESTRO-T group, and 9.7%, 15.4%, and 16.3% in the CONV-T group; it did not show a significant difference between the groups (p = 0.56). In multivariable analyses, target delineation is not associated with the major complications (sHR = 0.87; p = 0.77). There was no significant difference in any breast complications (3-year incidence, 18.9% vs. 23.3%, respectively; p = 0.56). Symptomatic RT-induced pneumonitis was developed in six (3.2%) and three (2.4%) patients, respectively. One local recurrence occurred in the ESTRO-T group, which was within the ESTRO-target volume. The new ESTRO-ACROP target volume guideline did not demonstrate significant differences in major or any breast complications, although it showed a tendency of reduced complication risks. As the dosimetric benefits of normal organs and comparable oncologic outcomes have been reported, further analyses with long-term follow-up are necessary to evaluate whether it could be connected to better clinical outcomes.
Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors and incidence of atrial fibrillation in older adults with type 2 diabetes: a retrospective cohort analysis
Authors: Li Yujia , Tang Huilin , Guo Yi , Shao Hui , Kimmel Stephen E. , Bian Jiang , Schatz Desmond A. , Guo Jingchuan
Published: May 2024

Objectives

To investigate the risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) with sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) compared to dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor (DPP4i) use in older US adults and across diverse subgroups.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis using claims data from 15% random samples of Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries. Patients were adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D), no preexisting AF, and were newly initiated on SGLT2i or DPP4i. The outcome was the first incident AF. Inverse probability treatment weighting (IPTW) was used to balance the baseline covariates between the treatment groups including sociodemographics, comorbidities, and co-medications. Cox regression models were used to assess the effect of SGLT2i compared to DPP4i on incident AF.

Results

Of the 97,436 eligible individuals (mean age 71.2 ± 9.8 years, 54.6% women), 1.01% (n = 983) had incident AF over a median follow-up of 361 days. The adjusted incidence rate was 8.39 (95% CI: 6.67–9.99) and 11.70 (95% CI: 10.9–12.55) per 1,000 person-years in the SGLT2i and DPP4i groups, respectively. SGLT2is were associated with a significantly lower risk of incident AF (HR 0.73; 95% CI, 0.57 to 0.91; p = 0.01) than DPP4is. The risk reduction of incident AF was significant in non-Hispanic White individuals and subgroups with existing atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases and chronic kidney disease.

Conclusion

Compared to the use of DPP4i, that of SGLT2i was associated with a lower risk of AF in patients with T2D. Our findings contribute to the real-world evidence regarding the effectiveness of SGLT2i in preventing AF and support a tailored therapeutic approach to optimize treatment selection based on individual characteristics.
Genetic mapping reveals a candidate gene CmoFL1 controlling fruit length in pumpkin
Authors: Zhou Yimei , Zhao Meng , Shen Qinghui , Zhang Mengyi , Wang Chenhao , Zhang Yutong , Yang Qinrong , Bo Yongming , Hu Zhongyuan , Yang Jinghua , Zhang Mingfang , Lyu Xiaolong
Published: May 2024

Fruit length (FL) is an important economical trait that affects fruit yield and appearance. Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duch) contains a wealth genetic variation in fruit length. However, the natural variation underlying differences in pumpkin fruit length remains unclear. In this study, we constructed a F2 segregate population using KG1 producing long fruit and MBF producing short fruit as parents to identify the candidate gene for fruit length. By bulked segregant analysis (BSA-seq) and Kompetitive Allele-Specific PCR (KASP) approach of fine mapping, we obtained a 50.77 kb candidate region on chromosome 14 associated with the fruit length. Then, based on sequence variation, gene expression and promoter activity analyses, we identified a candidate gene (CmoFL1) encoding E3 ubiquitin ligase in this region may account for the variation of fruit length. One SNP variation in promoter of CmoFL1 changed the GT1CONSENSUS, and DUAL-LUC assay revealed that this variation significantly affected the promoter activity of CmoFL1. RNA-seq analysis indicated that CmoFL1 might associated with the cell division process and negatively regulate fruit length. Collectively, our work identifies an important allelic affecting fruit length, and provides a target gene manipulating fruit length in future pumpkin breeding.
Exploring the comparative genome of rice pathogen Burkholderia plantarii: unveiling virulence, fitness traits, and a potential type III secretion system effector
Authors: Mannaa Mohamed , Lee Duyoung , Lee Hyun-Hee , Han Gil , Kang Minhee , Kim Tae-Jin , Park Jungwook , Seo Young-Su
Published: May 2024

This study presents a comprehensive genomic analysis of Burkholderia plantarii, a rice pathogen that causes blight and grain rot in seedlings. The entire genome of B. plantarii KACC 18964 was sequenced, followed by a comparative genomic analysis with other available genomes to gain insights into its virulence, fitness, and interactions with rice. Multiple secondary metabolite gene clusters were identified. Among these, 12 demonstrated varying similarity levels to known clusters linked to bioactive compounds, whereas eight exhibited no similarity, indicating B. plantarii as a source of potentially novel secondary metabolites. Notably, the genes responsible for tropolone and quorum sensing were conserved across the examined genomes. Additionally, B. plantarii was observed to possess three complete CRISPR systems and a range of secretion systems, exhibiting minor variations among the analyzed genomes. Genomic islands were analyzed across the four genomes, and a detailed study of the B. plantarii KACC 18964 genome revealed 59 unique islands. These islands were thoroughly investigated for their gene contents and potential roles in virulence. Particular attention has been devoted to the Type III secretion system (T3SS), a crucial virulence factor. An in silico analysis of potential T3SS effectors identified a conserved gene, aroA. Further mutational studies, in planta and in vitro analyses validated the association between aroA and virulence in rice. Overall, this study enriches our understanding of the genomic basis of B. plantarii pathogenicity and emphasizes the potential role of aroA in virulence. This understanding may guide the development of effective disease management strategies.
Moderating effect of negative emotion differentiation in chronic stress and fatigue among Chinese employees
Authors: Lv Wenhao , Qiu Huake , Lu Hongliang , Yajuan Zhang , Yongjie Ma , Xing Chen , Zhu Xia
Published: May 2024

Introduction

According to the reactivity hypothesis and the diathesis-stress model, repeated activation of the stress system has a negative effect on health, and this effect may differ because of individual characteristics. Thus, the present study explores the effect of chronic stress on fatigue and investigates its mechanism.

Methods

A questionnaire survey of 288 participants selected from the northwest part of China was conducted (13.89% females; ages ranged from 18 to 34 years, with M ± SD = 23.14 ± 3.79 years) on chronic stress, fatigue, depression, anxiety, and negative emotion differentiation. SPSS 28.0 was used to process descriptive statistics and correlation analysis and the PROCESS macro was used to analyze the moderated chained multi-mediation.

Results

Chronic stress was found to be positively correlated with fatigue, depression, and anxiety; depression and anxiety played a chained multi-mediating role between chronic stress and fatigue, and negative emotion differentiation played a moderating role in the chained multi-mediation model.

Discussion

Compared with depression, anxiety plays a more important role in the influence of chronic stress on fatigue. Therefore, it is necessary to pay more attention to anxiety symptoms and take appropriate intervention measures. Negative emotion differentiation plays a moderating role. Improving negative emotion differentiation through mindfulness and adaptive emotion regulation is an effective way to reduce the influence of chronic stress on fatigue.
Teacher agency in the times of crisis: a situational analysis of school environment after the 2022 Russian invasion in Ukraine
Authors: Szczepaniak-Kozak Anna , Wąsikiewicz-Firlej Emilia
Published: May 2024

From February to May 2022, the war in Ukraine prompted Poland to accommodate 3.37 million refugees from conflict zones, in addition to 850 thousand Ukrainian economic migrants already residing in the country. A substantial proportion of these refugees, primarily mothers with children, swiftly integrated into the Polish educational system, with some children commencing schooling within a week of their arrival. This influx significantly diversified the then predominantly monolingual landscape of Polish schools. Given the uniqueness of this situation and the fact that Poland has historically remained mono-national and monolingual for decades, Polish teachers suffered from a lack of preparedness, resources and expertise to effectively navigate their teaching practices in multilingual classes. To understand the specificity of this situation, taking especially into account the perspective of educators, we have designed a qualitative study drawing on focus group and individual interview reports. We were particularly interested in determining how teachers' agency was activated in times of crisis. The findings reveal how the newly-emerging linguistic and cultural heterogeneity is perceived by teachers, how it is manifested in school and home environments, and the extent to which possibilities for synergies exist between the two. The findings also highlight the fact that, despite teachers' inexperience and unpreparedness for the new educational context, they instantly responded to the challenges that emerged. This can be exemplified by teachers' collaboration in material design as well as the willingness to participate in courses sensitizing to migrant students' needs (e.g., linguistic, educational, or emotional ones).