bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CircRNA DICAR as a novel endogenous regulator for diabetic cardiomyopathy and diabetic pyroptosis of cardiomyocytes
Authors: Yuan Qiong , Sun Yunwei , Yang Fan , Yan Dan , Shen Meihua , Jin Zhigang , Zhan Lin , Liu Guangqi , Yang Ling , Zhou Qianyi , Yu Zhijun , Zhou Xiangyu , Yu Yang , Xu Yong , Wu Qingming , Luo Jianfang , Hu Xiamin , Zhang Chunxiang
Published: April 2023

In this study, we identified that a conserved circular RNA (circRNA) DICAR, which was downregulated in diabetic mouse hearts. DICAR had an inhibitory effect on diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM), as the spontaneous cardiac dysfunction, cardiac cell hypertrophy, and cardiac fibrosis occurred in DICAR deficiency (DICAR+/−) mice, whereas the DCM was alleviated in DICAR-overexpressed DICARTg mice. At the cellular level, we found that overexpression of DICAR inhibited, but knockdown of DICAR enhanced the diabetic cardiomyocyte pyroptosis. At the molecular level, we identified that DICAR-VCP-Med12 degradation could be the underlying molecular mechanism in DICAR-mediated effects. The synthesized DICAR junction part (DICAR-JP) exhibited a similar effect to the entire DICAR. In addition, the expression of DICAR in circulating blood cells and plasma from diabetic patients was lower than that from health controls, which was consistent with the decreased DICAR expression in diabetic hearts. DICAR and the synthesized DICAR-JP may be drug candidates for DCM.
tRF-Gln-CTG-026 ameliorates liver injury by alleviating global protein synthesis
Authors: Ying Sunyang , Li Pengcheng , Wang Jiaqiang , Chen Kaiqiong , Zou Yu , Dai Moyu , Xu Kai , Feng Guihai , Zhang Changjian , Jiang Haiping , Li Wei , Zhang Ying , Zhou Qi
Published: April 2023

tsRNAs (tRNA-derived small RNAs), as products of the stress response, exert considerable influence on stress response and injury regulation. However, it remains largely unclear whether tsRNAs can ameliorate liver injury. Here, we demonstrate the roles of tsRNAs in alleviating liver injury by utilizing the loss of NSun2 (NOP2/Sun domain family, member 2) as a tsRNAs-generating model. Mechanistically, the loss of NSun2 reduces methyluridine-U5 (m5U) and cytosine-C5 (m5C) of tRNAs, followed by the production of various tsRNAs, especially Class I tsRNAs (tRF-1s). Through further screening, we show that tRF-Gln-CTG-026 (tG026), the optimal tRF-1, ameliorates liver injury by repressing global protein synthesis through the weakened association between TSR1 (pre-rRNA-processing protein TSR1 homolog) and pre-40S ribosome. This study indicates the potential of tsRNA-reduced global protein synthesis in liver injury and repair, suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy for liver injury.
Statistical inference with joint progressive censoring for two populations using power Rayleigh lifetime distribution
Authors: Tolba Ahlam H. , Abushal Tahani A. , Ramadan Dina A.
Published: April 2023

In this study, point and interval estimations for the power Rayleigh distribution are derived using the joint progressive type-II censoring technique. The maximum likelihood and Bayes methods are used to estimate the two distributional parameters. The estimators’ approximate credible intervals and confidence intervals have also been determined. The Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) method is used to provide the findings of Bayes estimators for squared error loss and linear exponential loss functions. The Metropolis–Hasting technique uses Gibbs to generate MCMC samples from the posterior density functions. A real data set is used to show off the suggested approaches. Finally, in order to compare the results of various approaches, a simulation study is performed.
Prognostic impact of lymphovascular and perineural invasion in squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue
Authors: Huang Qiongling , Huang Yanjun , Chen Chunhui , Zhang Yizheng , Zhou Jiao , Xie Chengke , Lu Ming , Xiong Yu , Fang Dage , Yang Yubin , Hu Weipeng , Zheng Feng , Zheng Chaohui
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to investigate the prognostic impact of lymphovascular and perineural invasions in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue who received surgery-based treatment at our institution between January 2013 and December 2020. Patients were divided into four groups based on the presence of perineural (P−/P +) and lymphovascular invasions (V−/V +): P–V−, P–V + , P + V−, and P + V + . Log-rank and Cox proportional hazard models were used to evaluate the association between perineural /lymphovascular invasion and overall survival (OS). Altogether, 127 patients were included, and 95 (74.8%), 8 (6.3%), 18 (14.2%), and 6 (4.7%) cases were classified as P–V−, P–V + , P + V−, and P + V + , respectively. Pathologic N stage (pN stage), tumor stage, histological grade, lymphovascular invasion, perineural invasion, and postoperative radiotherapy were significantly associated with OS (p < 0.05). OS was significantly different among the four groups (p < 0.05). Significant between-group differences in OS were detected for node-positive (p < 0.05) and stage III–IV (p < 0.05) cases. OS was the worst in the P + V + group. Lymphovascular and perineural invasions are independent negative prognostic factors for squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue. Patients with lymphovascular and/or perineural invasion may have significantly poorer overall survival than those without neurovascular involvement.
Impaired retinoic acid signaling in cerebral cavernous malformations
Authors: Grdseloff Nastasja , Boulday Gwenola , Rödel Claudia J. , Otten Cécile , Vannier Daphné Raphaelle , Cardoso Cécile , Faurobert Eva , Dogra Deepika , Tournier-Lasserve Elisabeth , Abdelilah-Seyfried Salim
Published: April 2023

The capillary-venous pathology cerebral cavernous malformation (CCM) is caused by loss of CCM1/Krev interaction trapped protein 1 (KRIT1), CCM2/MGC4607, or CCM3/PDCD10 in some endothelial cells. Mutations of CCM genes within the brain vasculature can lead to recurrent cerebral hemorrhages. Pharmacological treatment options are urgently needed when lesions are located in deeply-seated and in-operable regions of the central nervous system. Previous pharmacological suppression screens in disease models of CCM led to the discovery that treatment with retinoic acid improved CCM phenotypes. This finding raised a need to investigate the involvement of retinoic acid in CCM and test whether it has a curative effect in preclinical mouse models. Here, we show that components of the retinoic acid synthesis and degradation pathway are transcriptionally misregulated across disease models of CCM. We complemented this analysis by pharmacologically modifying retinoic acid levels in zebrafish and human endothelial cell models of CCM, and in acute and chronic mouse models of CCM. Our pharmacological intervention studies in CCM2-depleted human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and krit1 mutant zebrafish showed positive effects when retinoic acid levels were increased. However, therapeutic approaches to prevent the development of vascular lesions in adult chronic murine models of CCM were drug regiment-sensitive, possibly due to adverse developmental effects of this hormone. A treatment with high doses of retinoic acid even worsened CCM lesions in an adult chronic murine model of CCM. This study provides evidence that retinoic acid signaling is impaired in the CCM pathophysiology and suggests that modification of retinoic acid levels can alleviate CCM phenotypes.
Prediction method of surface settlement of rectangular pipe jacking tunnel based on improved PSO-BP neural network
Authors: Hu Da , Hu Yongjia , Yi Shun , Liang Xiaoqiang , Li Yongsuo , Yang Xian
Published: April 2023

To provide theoretical support for the safety control of rectangular pipe jacking tunnels crossing an existing expressway, a method for predicting the surface settlement of a rectangular pipe jacking tunnel is proposed in this study. Therefore, based on the high approximation of the BP neural network to any function under the multiparameter input, the PSO-BP mixed prediction model of the ground subsidence of the ultrashallow buried large section rectangular pipe jacking tunnel is established by taking into account the adaptive mutation method, adopting the improved particle swarm optimization (IPSO) algorithm with adaptive inertia weight and mutation particles in the later stage to determine the optimal hyperparameters of the prediction model. Through the case study of an ultrashallow large cross-section rectangular pipe jacking tunnel, this algorithm is compared with the traditional algorithm and combined with field monitoring data for analysis and prediction. The prediction results show that compared with the traditional BP neural network prediction model, AWPSO-BP model and PWPSO-BP model, the improved PSO-BP mixed prediction model shows a more stable prediction effect when the change in surface subsidence is gentle and the concavity and convexity are large. The predicted subsidence value is close to the actual value, and the accuracy and robustness of the prediction are significantly improved.
Regionally high risk increase for precipitation extreme events under global warming
Authors: Martinez-Villalobos Cristian , Neelin J. David
Published: April 2023

Daily precipitation extremes are projected to intensify with increasing moisture under global warming following the Clausius-Clapeyron (CC) relationship at about $$ 7\% /^\circ {\text{C}} $$

7
%

/
∘

C

. However, this increase is not spatially homogeneous. Projections in individual models exhibit regions with substantially larger increases than expected from the CC scaling. Here, we leverage theory and observations of the form of the precipitation probability distribution to substantially improve intermodel agreement in the medium to high precipitation intensity regime, and to interpret projected changes in frequency in the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6. Besides particular regions where models consistently display super-CC behavior, we find substantial occurrence of super-CC behavior within a given latitude band when the multi-model average does not require that the models agree point-wise on location within that band. About 13% of the globe and almost 25% of the tropics (30% for tropical land) display increases exceeding 2CC. Over 40% of tropical land points exceed 1.5CC. Risk-ratio analysis shows that even small increases above CC scaling can have disproportionately large effects in the frequency of the most extreme events. Risk due to regional enhancement of precipitation scale increase by dynamical effects must thus be included in vulnerability assessment even if locations are imprecise.
Polyunsaturated fatty acids-rich dietary lipid prevents high fat diet-induced obesity in mice
Authors: Haneishi Yuri , Furuya Yuma , Hasegawa Mayu , Takemae Hitoshi , Tanioka Yuri , Mizutani Tetsuya , Rossi Mauro , Miyamoto Junki
Published: April 2023

Diet is the primary factor affecting host nutrition and metabolism, with excess food intake, especially high-calorie diets, such as high-fat and high-sugar diets, causing an increased risk of obesity and related disorders. Obesity alters the gut microbial composition and reduces microbial diversity and causes changes in specific bacterial taxa. Dietary lipids can alter the gut microbial composition in obese mice. However, the regulation of gut microbiota and host energy homeostasis by different polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in dietary lipids remains unknown. Here, we demonstrated that different PUFAs in dietary lipids improved host metabolism in high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity in mice. The intake of the different PUFA-enriched dietary lipids improved metabolism in HFD-induced obesity by regulating glucose tolerance and inhibiting colonic inflammation. Moreover, the gut microbial compositions were different among HFD and modified PUFA-enriched HFD-fed mice. Thus, we have identified a new mechanism underlying the function of different PUFAs in dietary lipids in regulating host energy homeostasis in obese conditions. Our findings shed light on the prevention and treatment of metabolic disorders by targeting the gut microbiota.
Generalized Clausius inequalities in a nonequilibrium cold-atom system
Authors: Mayer Daniel , Lutz Eric , Widera Artur
Published: April 2023

Thermodynamic inequalities, such as the Clausius inequality, characterize the direction of nonequilibrium processes. However, the latter result presupposes a system coupled to a heat bath that drives it to a thermal state. Far from equilibrium, the Clausius inequality can be generalized using information-theoretic quantities. For initially isolated systems that are moved from an equilibrium state by a dissipative heat exchange, the generalized Clausius inequality is predicted to be reversed. We here experimentally investigate the nonequilibrium thermodynamics of an initially isolated dilute gas of ultracold Cesium atoms that can be either thermalized or pushed out of equilibrium by means of laser cooling techniques. We determine in both cases the phase-space dynamics by tracing the evolution with position-resolved fluorescence imaging, from which we evaluate all relevant thermodynamic quantities. We confirm the validity of the generalized Clausius inequality for the first process and of the reversed generalized Clausius inequality for the second transformation.
Learning effective SDEs from Brownian dynamic simulations of colloidal particles
Authors: Evangelou Nikolaos , Dietrich Felix , Bello-Rivas Juan M. , Yeh Alex J. , Hendley Rachel S. , Bevan Michael A. , Kevrekidis Ioannis G.
Published: April 2023

We construct a reduced, data-driven, parameter dependent effective Stochastic Differential Equation (eSDE) for electric-field mediated colloidal crystallization using data obtained from Brownian dynamics simulations.
Solvent-free synthesis of a new perfluorinated MIL-53(Al) with a temperature-induced breathing effect
Authors: Morelli Venturi Diletta , Guiotto Virginia , D'Amato Roberto , Calucci Lucia , Signorile Matteo , Taddei Marco , Crocellà Valentina , Costantino Ferdinando
Published: April 2023

A new fluorinated member of the MIL-53(Al) family, displaying a unique temperature-induced phase transition, was synthesised via a solvent-free route.
A cold-responsive liquid crystal elastomer provides visual signals for monitoring a critical temperature decrease
Authors: Zhan Yuanyuan , Broer Dirk J. , Li Junyu , Xue Jiuzhi , Liu Danqing
Published: April 2023

A new generation of critical temperature indicators is developed for monitoring temperature decrease and providing irreversible visual signals. This is realized by using a switchable permeable–impermeable gold-liquid crystal elastomer membrane.
Sputtered Cu-doped NiO thin films as an efficient electrocatalyst for methanol oxidation
Authors: Abdel-wahab Mohamed Sh. , Emam Hadeer K. El , Rouby Waleed M. A. El
Published: April 2023

The efficient electrocatalysts for direct methanol oxidation play an essential role in the electrochemical energy conversion systems for their application in a wide range of portable applications.
Progress and opportunities for metal–organic framework composites in electrochemical sensors
Authors: Zhang Wanqing , Li Xijiao , Ding Xiaoman , Hua Kang , Sun Aili , Hu Xinxin , Nie Ziwei , Zhang Yongsheng , Wang Jichao , Li Renlong , Liu Shanqin
Published: April 2023

Metal–organic framework composites have the advantages of large surface area, high porosity, strong catalytic efficiency and good stability, which provide a great possibility of finding excellent electrode materials for electrochemical sensors.
An integrated five-step continuous flow synthesis of 2-(1-cyclohexenyl)ethylamine: a key intermediate for morphinans
Authors: Li Zhining , Huang Shiqi , Tao Yuan , Jiang Meifen , Cheng Dang , Wan Li , Chen Fener
Published: April 2023

A continuous flow synthesis of 2-(1-cyclohexenyl)ethylamine started from cyclohexanone was developed through telescoping Grignard reaction and chlorination, telescoping amination and double bond rearrangement, and hydrazinolysis.
Highly selective production of bio-jet fuel grade alkanes over an Fe/SiO2–Al2O3 solid acid catalyst under solvent-free conditions
Authors: Saini Bhagirath , Yadav Meena , Jha Shubham Kumar , Krishnapriya R. , Kang Preeti , Kant Vishav , Singhal Rahul , Sharma Rakesh K.
Published: April 2023

Fatty acid-based biomass is one of the most abundant organic carbon sources and has acquired significant attention as a renewable feedstock for producing renewable bio-jet fuel via hydrocatalytic processes.
Ambulantes Operieren: Warum es im Krankenhaus (noch) nicht klappt – und in der Praxis auch nicht
Authors: Volkmer Björn G. , Schultz-Lampel Daniela , Speck Thomas , Borchers Holger
Published: April 2023

Den hohen Kosten im deutschen Gesundheitswesen und dem Mangel an Pflegekräften kann nur durch eine Verlagerung stationärer Leistungen in den ambulanten Sektor begegnet werden. Der angekündigte neue Ambulante OP-Katalog soll bis zu 50% aller urologischen Leistungen umfassen. Trotz der Erwartung großer Veränderungen können aktuell weder Krankenhäuser noch Praxen sich angemessen darauf vorbereiten, da weder der genaue Katalog, noch die Infrastrukturbedingungen, noch die Vergütung geklärt sind. Ohne eine Planungssicherheit ist aber niemand bereit, in die zukünftigen Strukturen zu investieren.
Scaphoid Length Loss Following Nonunion Is Associated with Dorsal Intercalated Segment Instability
Authors: Bulstra Anne Eva J. , Vidovic Alex Jug , Doornberg Job N. , Jaarsma Ruurd L. , Buijze Geert Alexander
Published: April 2023

Background Dorsal intercalated segment instability (DISI) in scaphoid nonunions is frequently attributed to fracture location relative to ligamentous attachments onto the scaphoid apex. We hypothesize scaphoid length loss to have a stronger correlation with DISI deformity than fracture location in patients with scaphoid nonunion.

Questions/Purposes To investigate the correlation between (1) scaphoid length loss, (2) fracture location relative to the scaphoid apex, and (3) type of nonunion (Herbert classification) and DISI deformity in skeletally mature patients with scaphoid nonunion.

Patients and Methods Twenty-seven cases of computed tomography (CT)–confirmed scaphoid nonunion (>6 months) were retrospectively included. Our primary outcome was the degree of DISI as measured by the radiolunate (RL) angle on CT. Scaphoid length loss was expressed as height-to-length (H/L) ratio. Fracture location was classified as proximal or distal to the scaphoid apex. Nonunions were classified as fibrous unions (type D1) or pseudoarthrosis (type D2). The correlation between RL angle, H/L ratio, fracture location, and nonunion type was evaluated.

Results H/L ratio was the only factor associated with the degree of DISI as measured by RL angle. As scaphoid length loss increased (increasing H/L ratio), the RL angle increased. There was no significant difference in RL angle between fractures located proximal (30 degrees) or distal (28 degrees) to the scaphoid apex, or type D1 (31 degrees) versus type D2 (28 degrees) nonunions. There was no correlation between patient age, sex, or wrist side affected and RL angle.

Conclusions Scaphoid length loss, rather than fracture location, is correlated to the degree of DISI deformity in patients with scaphoid nonunion. This highlights the importance of restoring scaphoid height when planning scaphoid nonunion reconstruction.

Level of Evidence Level III, diagnostic study.
Rupture of the Flexor Pollicis Longus Tendon Involved between the Radial Shaft and the Volar Locking Plate
Authors: Hiraishi Yuri , Kimura Hiroo , Suzuki Taku , Matsumura Noboru , Iwamoto Takuji , Matsumoto Morio , Nakamura Masaya
Published: April 2023

We report the case of a 61-year-old woman with right-sided flexor pollicis longus (FPL) tendon ruptured a month after volar locking plate fixation. Five months after the initial operation, hardware removal and reconstruction of the FPL tendon with the ipsilateral palmaris longus were performed. The proximal stump of the ruptured FPL tendon was found in the space between the distal radius and plate.
COVID-19 exposes weaknesses in public health in the Peruvian Amazon and highlights opportunities for a One Health approach
Authors: Ormea Verónica , Evaristo Roberto , Durand Salomon , Lover Andrew , Rüegg Simon R.
Published: April 2023

The Amazon is home to important wildlife and a biodiversity hotspot of global importance. The ancestral knowledge kept by Indigenous communities about its fauna and flora contributes further to its irreplaceable value. The Peruvian Amazon was heavily struck by the COVID-19 epidemic with a cumulative incidence of 725, a mortality rate of 34 per 100,000 inhabitants, and a case fatality rate of 4.6% by the end of July 2020. In this work, we review scientific literature and media to trace the events that happened at the beginning of the COVID-19 epidemic in the Peruvian Amazon. Results are synthesized in three observations: (1) the evolution of the COVID-19 epidemic within the Peruvian Amazon and the response of the Peruvian health care system, (2) Confusing information about Ivermectin use for COVID-19 treatment and prevalent self-medication (3) The response of the traditional Indigenous health care system to the COVID-19 epidemic. These three observations are interdependent. There is an unexploited potential for integrative approaches linking traditional medical practices (TMP) and biomedical approaches and they may benefit from the interactions that occur between them. Synergies can also be explored between the human and animal health care sector, especially in terms of the use and stewardship of medicines. We conclude that there is a benefit of the One Health approach in the region, which can go through the common ambition to improve the integrated health of people, animals and ecosystems, facilitate the enhancement of equity and inclusion while improving access to health services and conserving biodiversity.

One Health Impact Statement

The Amazon region is home to wildlife flora and fauna and indigenous Amazon communities. The case presented in this work shows that an existing grassroots initiative has been reducing case fatality rates tenfold during the COVID-19 epidemic, while acting in respect towards nature and the environment, and using its resources. This is in stark contrast to the uncontrolled, ineffective self-medication with ivermectin in that same period, which may endanger the biodiversity hotspot through metabolic residues. While the current example seems to illustrate community resilience due to government negligence, it also shows the vastly unexplored potential of integrating biomedical and traditional indigenous knowledge in a solidaric and co-creative framework such as One Health.
Quantitative analysis of morphogenesis and growth dynamics in an obligate intracellular bacterium
Authors: Figueroa-Cuilan Wanda M. , Irazoki Oihane , Feeley Marissa , Smith Erika , Nguyen Trung , Cava Felipe , Goley Erin D.
Published: April 2023

Quantitative methods are described and applied to analyze the morphogenesis and growth of an obligate intracellular rickettsial pathogen in the cytoplasm of a eukaryotic host.
A rare case report of fatal acute myocardial infarction as a complication of myocardial abscess
Authors: Lutsenko Lina , Sokolov Maksym , Krychkevych Viktoriya
Published: April 2023

Background

Myocardial abscess is a very rare life-threatening suppurative infection of the heart. Usually, myocardial abscess is a complication of infective endocarditis, and it is rarely associated with isolated myocardial infection. We present a case of an isolated myocardial abscess presenting with acute myocardial infarction.

Case summary

A 61-year-old man with a history of diabetes mellitus and coronary artery disease presented with a 3-h history of chest pain and inferior ST elevation. He had been treated for right-sided pneumonia 1.5 months prior to admission. Coronary angiography revealed acute occlusion of the posterolateral ventricular artery, and he underwent balloon angioplasty, which successfully restored TIMI-3 blood flow. Unfortunately, the patient went into cardiac arrest several hours later from which he could not be resuscitated. A post-mortem revealed a myocardial abscess in the inferior wall of the left ventricle.

Discussion

Myocardial abscess is a challenging diagnosis due to the speed of clinical deterioration and rarity. High clinical suspicion and urgent multimodality imaging may aid in the diagnosis.
Bayesian model-based outlier detection in network meta-analysis
Authors: Metelli Silvia , Mavridis Dimitris , Créquit Perrine , Chaimani Anna
Published: April 2023

In network meta-analysis, some of the collected studies may deviate markedly from the others, for example, having very unusual effect sizes. These deviating studies can be regarded as outlying with respect to the rest of the network and can be influential on the pooled results. Thus, it could be inappropriate to synthesise those studies without further investigation. In this paper, we propose two Bayesian methods to detect outliers in a network meta-analysis via: (a) a mean-shifted outlier model and (b) posterior predictive p-values constructed from ad-hoc discrepancy measures. The former method uses Bayes factors to formally test each study against outliers while the latter provides a score of outlyingness for each study in the network, allowing to numerically quantify the uncertainty associated with being outlier. Furthermore, we present a simple method based on informative priors as part of the network meta-analysis model to down-weight the detected outliers. We conduct extensive simulations to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed methodology while comparing it to some alternative outlier detection tools. Two case studies are then used to demonstrate our methods in practice.
QTL Mapping Reveals Both All-Stage and Adult-Plant Resistance to Powdery Mildew in Chinese Elite Wheat Cultivars
Authors: Xu Xiaoting , Ni Zhongqiu , Zou Xinyu , Zhang Yelun , Tong Jingyang , Xu Xiaowan , Dong Yachao , Han Bin , Li Simin , Wang Desen , Xia Xianchun , He Zhonghu , Hao Yuanfeng
Published: April 2023

Powdery mildew caused by Blumeria graminis f. sp. tritici is a threat to wheat production in China. Mapping quantitative trait loci (QTL) for resistance to powdery mildew and developing breeder-friendly markers are important initial steps in breeding resistant cultivars. An all-stage resistance gene and several QTL were identified using a population of 254 recombinant inbred lines developed from a Jingdong 8/Aikang 58 cross. The population was evaluated for powdery mildew resistance across six field environments over three consecutive growing seasons utilizing two different mixtures of B. graminis f. sp. tritici isolates, named #Bgt-HB and #Bgt-BJ. Using genotypic data obtained from the Wheat TraitBreed 50K single-nucleotide polymorphism array, seven stable QTL were identified on chromosome arms 1DL, 2AL, 2DS, 4DL, 5AL, 6BL.1, and 6BL.2. The QTL on 2AL conferred all-stage resistance to B. graminis f. sp. tritici race E20 in greenhouse tests and explained up to 52% of the phenotypic variance in field trials but was resistant only against #Bgt-HB. The gene involved in this QTL was predicted to be Pm4a based on genome location and gene sequence. QPmja.caas-1DL, QPmja.caas-4DL, and QPmja.caas-6BL.1 were identified as potentially new QTL for powdery mildew resistance. QPmja.caas-2DS and QPmja.caas-6BL.1 were effective against both B. graminis f. sp. tritici mixtures, indicating their probable broad-spectrum resistance. A Kompetitive allele-specific PCR marker closely linked to QPmja.caas-2DS was developed and validated in a panel of 286 wheat cultivars. Because both Jingdong 8 and Aikang 58 have been leading cultivars and breeding parents, the QTL and marker reported represent valuable resources for wheat researchers and breeders.
A Diagnostic Biomarker for Cervical Myelopathy Based on Dynamic Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Berberat Jatta , Andereggen Lukas , Gruber Philipp , Hausmann Oliver , Reza Fathi Ali , Remonda Luca
Published: April 2023

Study Design.

Multicenter prospective observational study.

Objective.

Diffusion tensor imaging in flexion extension improves the diagnosis of degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM). We aimed to provide an imaging biomarker for the detection of DCM.

Summary of Background Data.

DCM is the most common form of spinal cord dysfunction in adults; however, imaging surveillance for myelopathy remains poorly characterized.

Patients and Methods.

Symptomatic DCM patients were examined in maximum neck flexion-extension and neutral positions in a 3T-magnetic resonance imaging scanner and allocated to 2 groups: (1) Patients with visible intramedullary hyperintensity (IHIS) on T2-weighted imaging (IHIS+, n = 10); and (2) Patients without IHIS (IHIS−, n = 11). Range of motion, space available for the spinal cord, apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), axial diffusivity (AD), radial diffusivity, and fractional anisotropy were measured and compared between the neck positions and between the groups as well as between control (C2/3) and pathologic segments.

Results.

Significant differences between the control level (C2/3) and pathologic segments were appreciated for the IHIS+ group at neutral neck position in AD; at flexion in ADC and AD; and at neck extension in ADC, AD, and fractional anisotropy values. For the IHIS− group, significant differences between the control level (C2/3) and pathologic segments were found only for ADC values in neck extension. When comparing diffusion parameters between groups, radial diffusivity was significantly different in all 3 neck positions.

Conclusion.

Significant increases in ADC values between the control and pathologic segments were found for both groups in neck extension only. This may serve as a diagnostic tool to identify early changes in the spinal cord related to myelopathy to indicate potentially reversible spinal cord injury and support the indication for surgery in select circumstances.
Immune Co-inhibitory Receptors CTLA-4, PD-1, TIGIT, LAG-3, and TIM-3 in Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinomas: A Large Cohort Study
Authors: Jin Shengming , Shang Zhi , Wang Wenwen , Gu Chengyuan , Wei Yu , Zhu Yu , Yang Chen , Zhang Tiantian , Zhu Yao , Zhu Yiping , Wu Junlong , Ye Dingwei
Published: April 2023

Programmed cell death 1 ligand 1), programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1), cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4), T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin-domain containing-3, lymphocyte activation gene-3, and T-cell immunoglobulin and ITIM domain (TIGIT) are considered major immune co-inhibitory receptors (CIRs) and the most promising immunotherapeutic targets in cancer treatment, but they are largely unexplored in upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC). The aim of this Cohort Study was to provide evidence concerning expression profiles and the clinical significance of CIRs among Chinese UTUC patients. A total of 175 UTUC patients who received radical surgery in our center were included. We used immunohistochemistry to evaluate CIR expressions in tissue microarrays (TMAs). Clinicopathological characteristics and prognostic correlations of CIR proteins were retrospectively analyzed. TIGIT, T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin-domain containing-3, PD-1, CTLA-4, Programmed cell death 1 ligand 1, and lymphocyte activation gene-3 high expression was examined in 136(77.7%), 86(49.1%), 57(32.6%), 18(10.3%), 28(16.0%), and 18(10.3%) patients, respectively. Log-rank tests and Multivariate Cox analysis both implied CTLA-4 and TIGIT expression was associated with worse relapse-free survival. In conclusion, this is the largest Chinese UTUC cohort study, and we analyzed the Co-inhibitory receptor expression profiles in UTUC. We identified CTLA-4 and TIGIT expression as promising biomarkers for tumor recurrence. Furthermore, a subset of advanced UTUCs are probably immunogenic, for which single or combined immunotherapy may be potential therapeutic approaches in the future.
Communication challenges: perioperative risks and care directives
Authors: Habet Victoria , Teele Sarah A.
Published: April 2023

Purpose of review

Effective communication and shared decision-making is crucial in caring for children with congenital or acquired heart disease. Despite high mortality, complications related to interventions, and suffering in pediatric advanced heart disease, there is a disproportionate lack of research and advancements in communication and shared decision-making surrounding perioperative risks and advance care planning. We have comprehensively reviewed recent research on this multifaceted topic in the past 1.5 years to highlight major findings and propose priorities for future research.

Recent findings

Research has focused on parental perception of clinician/team communication with a notable paucity of research investigating the clinician perception of barriers to effective communication. Although there are discrepancies between parental and clinician perception, lack of trust between the patient's family and provider was acknowledged as a barrier by both parents and clinicians. Insight into interprofessional needs and expansion of structured language for discussions around shared decision-making should be prioritized.

Clinician discomfort with communication skills and conveying uncertainty in prognosis are two major areas for future research. On the basis of the literature to date, the focus should be placed on interprofessional needs and structured language for discussions around shared decision-making.
Evaluation of the ability of a commercially available cuffless wearable device to track blood pressure changes
Authors: Tan Isabella , Gnanenthiran Sonali R. , Chan Justine , Kyriakoulis Konstantinos G. , Schlaich Markus P. , Rodgers Anthony , Stergiou George S. , Schutte Aletta E.
Published: April 2023

Objectives:

Cuffless wearable blood pressure (BP) devices may allow detailed evaluation of BP for prolonged periods, but their ability to accurately track BP changes is uncertain. We investigated whether a commercially available cuffless wearable device tracks: 24-h systolic (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP) compared to conventional ambulatory monitoring (ABPM); and antihypertensive medication-induced BP changes compared to cuff-based home BP monitoring (HBPM).

Methods:

We fitted 41 participants (32% females, 58 ± 14 years, 80% hypertensive) with a wrist-wearable cuffless BP device (Aktiia) continuously for 6–12 days. At the beginning and the end of this period, 24-h ABPM was performed. Three participants with hypertension (one female; 60 ± 8 years) wore the Aktiia device and performed HBPM continuously one week before and 2 weeks after antihypertensive medication uptitration.

Results:

Compared to ABPM, Aktiia reported higher average SBP for 24-h (difference 4.9 mmHg, 95% CI [1.9, 7.9]) and night-time (15.5[11.8, 19.1] mmHg; all P ≤ 0.01), but similar daytime (1.0 [–1.8, 3.8] mmHg; P = 0.48). Similarly, average cuffless DBP was higher for 24-h (4.2 [2.3, 6.0] mmHg) and night-time (11.8 [9.5, 14.1] mmHg; both P < 0.001), but similar during daytime (1.4 [–0.4, 3.23] mmHg; P = 0.13). Aktiia also reported reduced night-time dip for SBP (difference 14.2 [12.1, 16.3] mmHg) and DBP (10.2 [8.5, 11.9] mmHg; both P < 0.001). The average medication-induced SBP/DBP decline after 2 weeks of uptitration was –1.0/–0.8 mmHg with Aktiia vs. –19.7/–11.5 mmHg with HBPM (P = 0.03 for difference).

Conclusion:

This cuffless wearable device did not accurately track night-time BP decline and results suggested it was unable to track medication-induced BP changes.
Circadian blood pressure variability and asymmetric dimethylarginine in patients with glaucoma: cross-sectional study of The LIGHT cohort
Authors: Yoshikawa Tadanobu , Obayashi Kenji , Miyata Kimie , Jimura Hironobu , Saeki Keigo , Ogata Nahoko
Published: April 2023

Objective:

Glaucoma is reportedly associated with asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) and circadian blood pressure (BP) variability, including night-time SBP. We determined whether ADMA level is associated with night-time SBP in patients with glaucoma.

Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, we measured the serum ADMA level and ambulatory BP of 163 patients with glaucoma and 705 participants without glaucoma. Based on the tertiles of serum ADMA level, the patients were divided into three groups: low, intermediate, and high-ADMA. Night-time SBP was determined based on ambulatory BP measured every 30 min for 48 h. The nondipper BP pattern was defined as having a night-time mean SBP decline of less than 10% relative to the mean daytime SBP.

Results:

In the glaucoma group, the night-time SBP in the high-ADMA group was significantly higher than in the low-ADMA group (123.0 and 114.4 mmHg, respectively; P = 0.003). Multivariable analysis adjusted for the potential confounders showed the night-time SBP, and the odds ratio for nondipper in the high-ADMA group were also significantly higher than in the low-ADMA group (P = 0.030 and P = 0.021, respectively). Significant associations between continuous serum ADMA levels with night-time SBP and nondipper were also found (P = 0.002 and 0.006, respectively). In the control group, however, no significant associations were found between serum ADMA levels and night-time SBP and nondipper. A significant interaction effect of the serum ADMA levels and glaucoma on nondipper was found (P = 0.004).

Conclusion:

Serum ADMA level was significantly associated with the disturbance of circadian BP variability in patients with glaucoma.
Validation of the ABPMpro ambulatory blood pressure monitor in the general population according to AAMI/ESH/ISO Universal Standard (ISO 81060-2:2018)
Authors: Roth Bernhard , Bothe Tomas Lucca , Patzak Andreas , Pilz Niklas
Published: April 2023

Objective

The objective of this study is to evaluate the accuracy of the oscillometric upper-arm device ABPMpro (SOMNOmedics) for ambulatory blood pressure measurement in the general population according to the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation/European Society of Hypertension/International Organization for Standardization (AAMI/ESH/ISO) Universal Standard (ISO 81060-2:2018) at rest and during dynamic exercise.

Methods

Subjects were recruited to fulfill the age, sex, blood pressure (BP) and cuff distribution criteria of the AAMI/ESH/ISO standard using the same arm sequential BP measurement method. Three appropriate cuff sizes (18–24, 24–34 and 34–46 cm) of the tested device were used for the arm-varying circumferences. The inflation and deflation measurement modes of the ABPMpro were investigated.

Results

For the general validation study, 100 subjects were recruited and 90 were analyzed. For validation criterion (1), the mean ± SD of the differences between ABPMpro and reference BP was 0.7 ± 7.3/–0.7 ± 5.8 mmHg (systolic/diastolic) for inflation and 1.4 ± 7.7/–0.6 ± 6.1 mmHg for deflation measurements. For criterion (2), the SD of the averaged BP differences per subject was 5.98/5.10 mmHg for inflation and 6.46/5.36 mmHg for deflation measurements, thereby passing the threshold. In the ambulatory validation study (N = 36), the mean difference was -1.2 ± 7.9/ 2.4 ± 6.6 mmHg for inflation and –0.7 ± 7.6/3.1 ± 7.0 mmHg for deflation measurements.

Conclusion

The ABPMpro device fulfilled the ISO 81060-2:2018 requirements in the general population and in the ambulatory setting and can therefore be recommended for clinical use.
Statistical considerations for testing automated sphygmomanometers in special patient populations
Authors: Alpert Bruce S. , Matsumura Paul , Wu Colin O. , Friedman Bruce , Flotzinger Doris , Osborn David
Published: April 2023

The International Standards Organization 81060-2:2018 is the current global Standard for the validation of automated sphygmomanometers. It specifies the requirements for clinical studies on the general population, as well as additional requirements for special populations, which might have physiologic characteristics that affect the accuracy of blood pressure measurements. This paper summarizes the statistical methodology behind the sample size required to test automated sphygmomanometers in these special populations and specifically addresses the pregnant patient population.
Diagnostic accuracy of an oscillometric blood pressure monitor for atrial fibrillation screening
Authors: Li Linyi , Bing Sen , Liu Kui , Jiang Jun , Zhang Jieqiong , Chen Changsheng , Wan Yi
Published: April 2023

Objective

Atrial fibrillation is the most common arrhythmia of clinical significance and hypertension is one of its major risk factors. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of an automated oscillometric blood pressure (BP) monitor with the function of atrial fibrillation detection for atrial fibrillation screening.

Materials and methods

Patients attending outpatient cardiology clinics were recruited for atrial fibrillation screening by the BP monitor with triplicate BP measurements for atrial fibrillation detection. Furthermore, a single-lead ECG was recorded simultaneously for comparison as the reference standard. The diagnostic test’s evaluation index were analyzed, including sensitivity, specificity, and receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analysis.

Results

A total of 295 participants were analyzed including 166 males and 129 females, with an average age of 72.5 ± 5.9 years. The sensitivity and specificity for atrial fibrillation detection by the device were 1.000 and 0.904, respectively, with the area under the ROC curve of 0.952 (95% confidence interval: 0.929–0.975, P < 0.001). Furthermore, the device had a Kappa-value of 0.781 (P < 0.001) with the single-lead ECG in detecting atrial fibrillation.

Conclusion

The automated oscillometric BP monitor (G.LAB MD41A0) with atrial fibrillation detection function has high sensitivity and specificity with good accuracy for atrial fibrillation screening, which could be used as a reliable screening tool for the early detection of atrial fibrillation with potential benefits.
Intravascular Large B-Cell Lymphoma Identified by PET/CT
Authors: Liu Wei , Liu Miao , Guan Meichao , Huang Jianmin , Xie Peng
Published: April 2023

Intravascular large B-cell lymphoma is a rare subtype of extranodal invasive non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and the diagnosis is challenging. Here we report findings of 18F-FDG PET/CT study in a case of intravascular large B-cell lymphoma invading bilateral lungs and kidneys in a 63-year-old woman. The PET/CT images showed diffuse increased FDG uptake in bilateral lungs and kidneys. Unexpectedly, there was no abnormal density on the CT images. The 18F-FDG PET/CT seems to be valuable and sensitive in the diagnosis of intravascular large B-cell lymphoma.
Extinction of Lipomatous Hypertrophy of the Interatrial Septum FDG Uptake With Propranolol Premedication
Authors: Callaud Aurélien , Metrard Gilles , Besse Hélène , Bailly Matthieu , Thibault Frédérique
Published: April 2023

Lipomatous hypertrophy of the interatrial septum is a rare lesion of the heart. CT and cardiac MR are often sufficient to determine the benign lipomatous nature of the tumor and can avoid the need for histological confirmation. Lipomatous hypertrophy of the interatrial septum contains variable amounts of brown adipose tissue, resulting in different degrees of18F-FDG uptake in PET. We report the case of a patient with an interatrial lesion suspected of malignancy, discovered on CT and failing cardiac MR, with initial18F-FDG uptake. Final characterization was made thanks to18F-FDG PET with β-blocker premedication, avoiding an invasive procedure.
Research on the clogging law of floating particles on the rain grate of road surface
Authors: Hou Jingming , Nan Xuan , Li Guodong , Wang Xuedong , Zhu Sipeng , Kang Yongde
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Since surface runoff clogs stormwater grates, leading to deterioration of drainage capacity, and also it is difficult to complete the study with actual dimensions in experiments, a numerical simulation work was established in this study to investigate the surface runoff clogging stormwater grate patterns. The purpose of this study is to describe the mechanisms of storm grate clogging and storm well deposition for different flow rate floods and granular materials.

Design/methodology/approach

In the work of this study, the volume of fluid (VOF) method and the discrete element method (DEM) are used to solve the gas–liquid and particle flows. In order to solve the evolution of the gas–liquid interface during surface runoff, the VOF was used. To simulate the rain grate and set up different material particles to represent the surface floating materials, the DEM was utilized.

Findings

The research results show that the clogging distribution and clogging rate of the rainwater grate are closely related to the fluid flow velocity and the physical characteristics of the particles, and the higher the clogging rate of the rainwater grate and the higher the number of particles deposited in the rainwater well at the same surface runoff velocity, the higher the density of the clogged particles. The surface runoff velocity (0.5 m/s, 1 m/s) shows that the rapid change of particle movement state at high runoff velocity makes the particle clogging more obvious.

Originality/value

A multi-scale CFD-DEM approach was used to simulate the particulate motion of the road surface with different incoming runoff velocities. The innovative use of DEM to model the storm grate simulation ensures the accuracy of the traction model.
Factors affecting team performance: An empirical study of Indian GenY and GenZ cohorts
Authors: Maan Pratibha , Srivastava Dinesh Kumar
Published: April 2023

Purpose

The study intends to examine the generational differences between GenY and GenZ Indian generational cohorts on the study variables, i.e. core self-evaluations (CSE), team cohesion, organizational culture and team performance. Further, the present research aims to analyze the impact of CSE, team cohesion and organizational culture on team performance as antecedents.

Design/methodology/approach

The study has adopted a descriptive cross-sectional survey method where the data were collected from Indian working professionals who belonged to GenY and GenZ generational cohorts. Further, a total of 370 responses were received, and thereafter, the data were analyzed by employing significant statistical tests such as exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), structural equation modeling (SEM) and an independent samples t-test.

Findings

The study results revealed that GenY and GenZ cohorts significantly differ on CSE, team cohesion and organizational culture. However, no significant difference was reported in team performance between these two generational cohorts. Also, the study results disclosed that CSE, team cohesion and organizational culture positively influence team performance by acting as its determinants.

Practical implications

The study reports differences between GenY and GenZ that would assist managers in effectively dealing with these generational cohorts and formulating human resource (HR) policies that can accommodate the needs of these two cohorts. Additionally, the study benefits managers by highlighting the importance of core-self evaluations, team cohesion and organizational culture to enhance team performance.

Originality/value

Existing research depicts that there lies a paucity of generational studies in the Indian context. The present study attempts to address this lacuna by putting pioneering efforts into this field. The main contribution of the study lies in empirically investigating the Indian generational cohorts (GenY and GenZ) in the organizations. Further, the study has also conceptualized and examined a team performance model by considering factors at three levels (individual, team and organization).