bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of different second line treatments for metastatic pancreatic cancer: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Petrelli Fausto , Parisi Alessandro , Tomasello Gianluca , Mini Emanuele , Arru Marcella , Russo Alessandro , Garrone Ornella , Khakoo Shelize , Ardito Raffaele , Ghidini Michele
Published: June 2023

Background

In metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (mPDAC), first line treatment options usually include combination regimens of folinic acid, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), irinotecan, and oxaliplatin (FOLFIRINOX or mFOLFIRINOX) or gemcitabine based regimens such as in combination with albumin-bound paclitaxel (GEM + nab-PTX). After progression, multiple regimens including NALIRI + 5-FU and folinic acid, FOLFIRINOX, 5-FU-based oxaliplatin doublets (OFF, FOLFOX, or XELOX), or 5-FU-based monotherapy (FL, capecitabine, or S-1) are considered appropriate by major guidelines. This network meta-analysis (NMA) aimed to compare the efficacy of different treatment strategies tested as second-line regimens for patients with mPDAC after first-line gemcitabine-based systemic treatment.

Methods

Randomized phase II and III clinical trials (RCTs) were included if they were published or presented in English. Trials of interest compared two active systemic treatments as second-line regimens until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. We performed a Bayesian NMA with published hazard ratios (HRs) and 95%confidence intervals (CIs) to evaluate the comparative effectiveness of different second-line therapies for mPDAC. The main outcomes of interest were overall survival (OS) and progression free survival (PFS), secondary endpoints were grade 3–4 toxicities. We calculated the relative ranking of agents for each outcome as their surface under the cumulative ranking (SUCRA). A higher SUCRA score meant a higher ranking for efficacy outcomes.

Results

A NMA of 9 treatments was performed for OS (n = 2521 patients enrolled). Compared with 5-FU + folinic acid both irinotecan or NALIRI + fluoropyrimidines had a trend to better OS (HR = 0.76, 95%CI 0.21–2.75 and HR = 0.74, 95%CI 0.31–1.85). Fluoropyrimidines + folinic acid + oxaliplatin were no better than the combination without oxaliplatin. The analysis of treatment ranking showed that the combination of NALIRI + 5-FU + folinic acid was most likely to yield the highest OS results (SUCRA = 0.7). Furthermore, the NMA results indicated that with the highest SUCRA score (SUCRA = 0.91), NALIRI + 5-FU + folinic acid may be the optimal choice for improved PFS amongst all regimens studied.

Conclusions

According to the NMA results, NALIRI + 5-FU, and folinic acid may represent the best second-line treatment for improved survival outcomes in mPDAC. Further evidence from prospective trials is needed to determine the best treatment option for this group of patients.
Implications of the medication regimen complexity index score on hospital readmissions in elderly patients with heart failure: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Abdelbary Asmaa , Kaddoura Rasha , Balushi Sara Al , Ahmed Shiema , Galvez Richard , Ahmed Afif , Nashwan Abdulqadir J. , Alnaimi Shaikha , Al Hail Moza , Elbdri Salah
Published: June 2023

Background

The likelihood of elderly patients with heart failure (HF) being readmitted to the hospital is higher if they have a higher medication regimen complexity index (MRCI) compared to those with a lower MRCI. The objective of this study was to investigate whether there is a correlation between the MRCI score and the frequency of hospital readmissions (30-day, 90-day, and 1-year) among elderly patients with HF.

Methods

In this single-center retrospective cohort study, MRCI scores were calculated using a well-established tool. Patients were categorized into high (≥ 15) or low (< 15) MRCI score groups. The primary outcome examined the association between MRCI scores and 30-day hospital readmission rates. Secondary outcomes included the relationships between MRCI scores and 90-day readmission, one-year readmission, and mortality rates. Multivariate logistic regression was employed to assess the 30- and 90-day readmission rates, while Kaplan-Meier analysis was utilized to plot mortality.

Results

A total of 150 patients were included. The mean MRCI score for all patients was 33.43. 90% of patients had a high score. There was no link between a high MCRI score and a high 30-day readmission rate (OR 1.02; 95% CI 0.99–1.05; p < 0.13). A high MCRI score was associated with an initial significant increase in the 90-day readmission rate (odd ratio, 1.03; 95% CI, 1.00-1.07; p < 0.022), but not after adjusting for independent factors (odd ratio, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.95–1.03; p < 0.487). There was no significant difference between high and low MRCI scores in their one-year readmission rate.

Conclusion

The study’s results indicate that there is no correlation between a higher MRCI score and the rates of hospital readmission or mortality among elderly patients with HF. Therefore, it can be concluded that the medication regimen complexity index does not appear to be a significant predictor of hospital readmission or mortality in this population.
Relationship between alexithymia, loneliness, resilience and non-suicidal self-injury in adolescents with depression: a multi-center study
Authors: Zhang Bing , Zhang Wei , Sun Lingmin , Jiang Cheng , Zhou Yongjie , He Kongliang
Published: June 2023

Objective

Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) behaviors are prevalent in adolescents and have adverse effects on physical and mental health. However, little is known about the relationship between NSSI and alexithymia, or the underlying mechanisms that could explain this relationship. This study aimed to elucidate the current status of NSSI in adolescent depression, and analyze the relationship between alexithymia, loneliness, resilience, and adolescent depression with NSSI, so as to provide a theoretical basis for psychotherapeutic interventions.

Method

The study sample involved inpatients and outpatients from 12 hospitals across China and adolescents with depression who met the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for depression episode. The following scales were used: The Functional Assessment of Self-Mutilation, Toronto Alexithymia Scale, UCLA Loneliness Scale, and Connor Davidson Resilience Scale.

Results

The detection rate of NSSI in adolescents with depression from 2021.01.01-2022.01.01 was 76.06% (1782/2343). Spearman’s correlation analysis revealed a significant correlation between alexithymia, loneliness, resilience and NSSI in depressed adolescents, and the results of the non-parametric test showed that the differences between the two groups for each factor were statistically significant. Binary logistic regression results showed that alexithymia (B = 0.023, p = 0.003, OR = 1.023, 95% CI: 1.008–1.038) and depression (B = 0.045, p < 0.001, OR = 1.046, 95% CI: 1.026–1.066) are risk factors for NSSI, resilience (B = − 0.052, p < 0.001, OR = 0.949, 95% CI: 0.935 − 0.964) is a protective factor for NSSI. Alexithymia directly predicted NSSI and also indirectly influenced NSSI through the mediated effect of resilience. Loneliness moderates the first half of the path of this mediated model.

Conclusion

The present study confirms a moderated mediation effect: Alexithymia can have an impact on NSSI behaviors in depressed adolescents through the mediating role of resilience. Loneliness, as a moderating variable, moderated the first half of the pathway of the mediating model. We discuss perspectives for future research and interventions based on the findings of the study.
Low back pain among professional bus drivers: a cross-sectional study from Bangladesh
Authors: Nabi Mohammad Hayatun , Hawlader Mohammad Delwer Hossain , Naz Farah , Siddiquea Saleka Raihana , Hasan Mehedi , Hossian Mosharop , Dalal Koustuv
Published: June 2023

Background

Low back pain (LBP) is a common condition contributing to impaired quality of life among professional vehicle drivers. Our study aimed to assess LBP prevalence and associated factors among professional bus drivers in Bangladesh.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 368 professional bus drivers using a semi-structured questionnaire. A Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) subscale was used to measure LBP. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify the factors associated with LBP.

Results

In the last month, 127 (34.51%) participants reported experiencing pain or discomfort in the lower backside. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that age of more than 40 years (adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 2.07, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.14 to 3.75), the income of more than 15,000 BDT per month (aOR: 1.91, 95% CI: 1.11 to 3.26), work duration more than ten years (aOR: 2.53, 95% CI: 1.12 to 5.70), working more than 15 days per month (aOR: 1.93, 95% CI: 1.02 to 3.65), working more than 10 h per day (aOR: 2.46, 95% CI: 1.05 to 5.75), poor condition of the driving seat (aOR: 1.80, 95% CI: 1.08 to 3.02), current smoking habit (aOR: 9.71, 95% CI: 1.25 to 75.15), illicit substances use (aOR: 1.97, 95% CI: 1.11 to 3.48), and four hours or less sleeping time per day (aOR: 1.83, 95% CI: 1.09 to 3.06) were positively associated with LBP.

Conclusion

The high burden of LBP among the participants calls for a focus on this vulnerable group's occupational health and safety, with particular emphasis on implementing standard measures.
Delayed multiligament PCL reconstruction is associated with a higher prevalence of intraarticular injury and may influence treatment
Authors: Zsidai Bálint , Engler Ian D. , Narup Eric , Lin Ryan T. , Nazzal Ehab M. , Winkler Philipp W. , Samuelsson Kristian , Irrgang James J. , Musahl Volker
Published: June 2023

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate differences in concomitant injury patterns and their treatment in patients undergoing early (≤ 12 weeks) and delayed (> 12 weeks) primary multiligament posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction (PCL-R).

Methods

This study was a retrospective chart review of patients undergoing primary multiligament PCL-R at a single institution between 2008 and 2020. Multiligament PCL-R was defined as PCL-R and concurrent surgical treatment of one or more additional knee ligament(s). Exclusion criteria included isolated PCL-R, PCL repair, and missing data for any variable. Patients were dichotomized into early (≤ 12 weeks) and delayed (> 12 weeks) PCL-R groups based on the time elapsed between injury and surgery. Between-group comparison of variables were conducted with the Chi-square, Fisher’s exact, and independent samples t-tests.

Results

A total of 148 patients were eligible for analysis, with 57 (38.5%) patients in the early and 91 (61.1%) patients in the delayed multiligament PCL-R groups. Concomitant LCL/PLC reconstruction (LCL-R/PLC-R) was performed in 55 (60%) of delayed multiligament PCL-Rs and 23 (40%) of early PCL-Rs (p = 0.02). Despite similar rates of meniscus injury, concomitant meniscus surgery was significantly more prevalent in the early (n = 25, 44%) versus delayed (n = 19, 21%) multiligament PCL-R group (p = 0.003), with a significantly greater proportion of medial meniscus surgeries performed in the early (n = 16, 28%) compared to delayed (n = 13, 14%) PCL-R group (p = 0.04). The prevalence of knee cartilage injury was significantly different between the early (n = 12, 24%) and delayed (n = 41, 46%) multiligament PCL-R groups (p = 0.01), with more frequent involvement of the lateral (n = 17, 19% vs. n = 3, 5%, respectively; p = 0.04) and medial (n = 31, 34% vs. n = 6, 11%, respectively; p = 0.005) femoral condyles in the delayed compared to the early PCL-R group.

Conclusions

Given higher rates of chondral pathology and medial meniscus surgery seen in delayed multiligament PCL-R, early management of PCL-based multiligament knee injury is recommended to restore knee stability and potentially prevent the development of further intraarticular injury.

Level of evidence

Level III.
Barriers and facilitators to the implementation of an early intervention in psychosis service in three demonstration sites in Ireland
Authors: Darker C.D. , Nicolson G. , Reddon H. , O’Connor K. , Jennings R. , O’Connell N.
Published: June 2023

Background

Programmes for early intervention (EIP) in psychosis for people experiencing a first episode of psychosis (FEP) have been found to be both clinically and cost effective. Following the publication of a new EIP model of care (MoC) in Ireland, the aim of this research is to describe how people participated in and responded to the MoC including service users, family members, HSE clinical staff and HSE management.

Methods

Qualitative design using the UK Medical Research Council’s process evaluation framework. Purposive sampling techniques were used. A total of N = 40 key informant semi-structured interviews were completed which included clinical staff (N = 22), health service managers and administrators (N = 9), service users (N = 8) and a family member (N = 1). Thematic analyses were conducted.

Results

Unique features of the EIP service (e.g., speed of referral/assessment, multidisciplinary approach, a range of evidence-based interventions and assertive MDT follow up) and enthusiasm for EIP were identified as two key factors that facilitated implementation. In contrast, obstacles to staff recruitment and budget challenges emerged as two primary barriers to implementation.

Conclusions

The findings from this research provide real world insights into the complexity of implementing an innovative service within an existing health system. Clear and committed financial and human resource processes which allow new innovations to thrive and be protected during their initiation and early implementation phase are paramount. These elements should be considered in the planning and implementation of EIP services both nationally in Ireland and internationally.
Exploring everyday work as a dynamic non-event and adaptations to manage safety in intraoperative anaesthesia care: an interview study
Authors: Olin Karolina , Klinga Charlotte , Ekstedt Mirjam , Pukk-Härenstam Karin
Published: June 2023

Background

Safety has been described as a dynamic non-event and as constantly present in professionals’ work processes. Investigating management of complex everyday situations may create an opportunity to elucidate safety management. Anaesthesia has been at the frontline of enhancing patient safety – testing and implementing knowledge from other high-reliability industries, such as aviation, in the complex, adaptive system of an operating room. The aim of this study was to explore factors supporting anaesthesia nurses and anaesthesiologists in managing complex everyday situations during intraoperative anaesthesia care processes.

Methods

Individual interviews with anaesthesia nurses (n = 9) and anaesthesiologists (n = 6) using cognitive task analysis (CTA) on case scenarios from previous prospective, structured observations. The interviews were analysed using the framework method.

Results

During intraoperative anaesthesia care, management of everyday complex situations is sustained through preparedness, support for mindful practices, and monitoring and noticing complex situations and managing them. The prerequisites are created at the organization level. Managers should ensure adequate resources in the form of trained personnel, equipment and time, team and personnel sustainability and early planning of work. Management of complex situations benefits from high-quality teamwork and non-technical skills (NTS), such as communication, leadership and shared situational awareness.

Conclusion

Adequate resources, stability in team compositions and safe boundaries for practice with shared baselines for reoccurring tasks where all viewed as important prerequisites for managing complex everyday work. When and how NTS are used in a specific clinical context depends on having the right organizational prerequisites and a deep expertise of the relevant clinical processes. Methods like CTA can reveal the tacit competence of experienced staff, guide contextualized training in specific contexts and inform the design of safe perioperative work practices, ensuring adequate capacity for adaptation.
Photomodulation alleviates cellular senescence of aging adipose-derived stem cells
Authors: Zhang Tao , He Yuqian , Shu Xin , Ma Xiaoyu , Wu Jiaqi , Du Zuoqin , Xu Jin , Chen Ni , You Jingcan , Liu Yaofang , Li Tian , Wu Jianbo
Published: June 2023

Background

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) therapies are emerging as a promising approach to therapeutic regeneration. Therapeutic persistence and reduced functional stem cells following cell delivery remain critical hurdles for clinical investigation due to the senescence of freshly isolated cells and extensive in-vitro passage.

Methods

Cultured adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) were derived from subcutaneous white adipose tissue isolated from mice fed a normal diet. We performed senescence-associated-β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) staining, real-time PCR, and Westernblot to evaluate the levels related to cellular senescence markers.

Results

The mRNA expression levels of senescence markers were significantly increased in the later passage of ASCs. We show that light activation reduced the expression of senescent genes, and SA-β-Gal in all cells at passages. Moreover, the light-activated ASCs-derived exosomes decrease the expression of senescence, and SA-β-Gal in the later passage cells. We further investigated the photoreceptive effect of Opsin3 (Opn3) in light-activated ASCs. Deletion of Opn3 abolished the differences of light activation in reduced expression of senescent genes, increased Ca 2+ influx, and cAMP levels.

Conclusions

ASCs can undergo cellular senescence in-vitro passage. Photomodulation might be better preserved over senescence and Opn3-dependent activation in aged ASCs. Light-activated ASCs-derived exosomes could be served as e a new protective paradigm for cellular senescence in-vitro passage.
Oridonin promotes endoplasmic reticulum stress via TP53-repressed TCF4 transactivation in colorectal cancer
Authors: Zhou Fangyuan , Gao Haiyang , Shang Luorui , Li Jinxiao , Zhang Mengqi , Wang Shuhan , Li Runze , Ye Lin , Yang Shenglan
Published: June 2023

Background

The incidence of colorectal cancer and cancer death rate are increasing every year, and the affected population is becoming younger. Traditional Chinese medicine therapy has a unique effect in prolonging survival time and improving the prognosis of patients with colorectal cancer. Oridonin has been reported to have anti-cancer effects in a variety of tumors, but the exact mechanism remains to be investigated.

Methods

Cell Counting Kit-8 assay (CCK8) and 5-Ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) staining assay, Tranwell, and Wound healing assays were performed to measure cell proliferation, invasion, and migration capacities, respectively. The protein and mRNA expression levels of various molecules were reflected by Western blot and Reverse Transcription quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR). Transcription Factor 4 (TCF4) and its target genes were analyzed by Position Weight Matrices (PWMs) software and the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Immunofluorescence (IF) was performed to visualize the expression and position of Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) stress biomarkers. The morphology of the ER was demonstrated by the ER tracker-red. Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) levels were measured using a flow cytometer (FCM) or fluorescent staining. Calcium ion (Ca2+) concentration was quantified by Fluo-3 AM staining. Athymic nude mice were modeled with subcutaneous xenografts.

Results

Oridonin inhibited the proliferation, invasion, and migration of colorectal cancer, and this effect was weakened in a concentration-dependent manner by ER stress inhibitors. In addition, oridonin-induced colorectal tumor cells showed increased expression of ER stress biomarkers, loose morphology of ER, increased vesicles, and irregular shape. TCF4 was identified as a regulator of ER stress by PWMs software and GEO survival analysis. In vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed that TCF4 inhibited ER stress, reduced ROS production, and maintained Ca2+ homeostasis. In addition, oridonin also activated TP53 and inhibited TCF4 transactivation, further exacerbating the elevated ROS levels and calcium ion release in tumor cells and inhibiting tumorigenesis in colorectal cancer cells in vivo.

Conclusions

Oridonin upregulated TP53, inhibited TCF4 transactivation, and induced ER stress dysregulation in tumor cells, promoting colorectal cancer cell death. Therefore, TCF4 may be one of the important nodes for tumor cells to regulate ER stress and maintain protein synthesis homeostasis. And the inhibition of the TP53/TCF4 axis plays a key role in the anti-cancer effects of oridonin.
A systematic review of hemorrhage and vascular injuries in civilian public mass shootings
Authors: Nyberger Karolina , Strömmer Lovisa , Wahlgren Carl-Magnus
Published: June 2023

Background

Civilian public mass shootings (CPMSs) are a major public health issue and in recent years several events have occurred worldwide. The aim of this systematic review was to characterize injuries and mortality after CPMSs focusing on in-hospital management of hemorrhage and vascular injuries.

Method

A systematic review of all published literature was undertaken in Medline, Embase and Web of Science January 1st, 1968, to February 22nd, 2021, according to the PRISMA guidelines. Literature was eligible for inclusion if the CPMS included three or more people shot, injured or killed, had vascular injuries or hemorrhage.

Results

The search identified 2884 studies; 34 were eligible for inclusion in the analysis. There were 2039 wounded in 45 CPMS events. The dominating anatomic injury location per event was the extremity followed by abdomen and chest. The median number of operations and operated patients per event was 22 (5–101) and 10.5 (4–138), respectively. A total of 899 deaths were reported with a median mortality rate of 36.1% per event (15.9–71.4%) Thirty-eight percent (13/34) of all studies reported on vascular injuries. Vascular injuries ranged from 8 to 29%; extremity vascular injury the most frequent. Specific vascular injuries included thoracic aorta 18% (42/232), carotid arteries 6% (14/232), and abdominal aorta 5% (12/232). Vascular injuries were involved in 8.3%-10% of all deaths.

Conclusion

This systematic review showed an overall high mortality after CPMS with injuries mainly located to the extremities, thorax and abdomen. About one quarter of deaths was related to hemorrhage involving central large vessel injuries. Further understanding of these injuries, and structured and uniform reporting of injuries and treatment protocols may help improve evaluation and management in the future.

Level of Evidence Systematic review and meta-analysis, level III.
Pediatricians’ awareness of galenic drugs for children with special needs: a regional survey
Authors: Burlo Francesca , Zanon Davide , Minghetti Paola , Taucar Valentina , Benericetti Giulia , Bennati Giada , Barbi Egidio , De Zen Lucia
Published: June 2023

The prevalence of children with medical complexity is increasing, therefore drug formulations must be updated in accordance with their needs. Furthermore, a different drug formulation may be also needed for patients who require a very low dosage which is not easily reachable with those of the industrial products or for those following a ketogenic diet. Galenic (or compounded) drugs have been recently pointed out as effective in treating children. Nonetheless, their knowledge among healthcare providers is limited. We investigated how much did pediatricians know about galenic compounds by a short questionnaire administered to family and hospital pediatricians and pediatric residents in Friuli Venezia Giulia, Italy. We collected answers from 65 family pediatricians (57,5%), 39 hospital pediatricians (36,1%), and 47 pediatric residents (41,2%). Overall, both family and hospital pediatricians substantially know what is a galenic compound and the indications to its use. Of note, most of pediatricians ignore which is the legislation that allows the galenic compounds’ preparation and use, and which is the correct procedure to prescribe them. Moreover, half of the hospital pediatricians and one-third of the family ones erroneously stated that galenic formulations cost more or like the industrial products, and around the 15% of both categories affirmed that galenic compounds are less safe than the commercial product. In conclusion, the use of galenic drug may significantly improve children’s and caregivers’ quality of life. We believe that all pediatricians should be updated on this quite new and interesting topic.
BluePrint molecular subtypes predict response to neoadjuvant pertuzumab in HER2-positive breast cancer
Authors: Liefaard M. C. , van der Voort A. , van Ramshorst M. S. , Sanders J. , Vonk S. , Horlings H. M. , Siesling S. , de Munck L. , van Leeuwen A. E. , Kleijn M. , Mittempergher L. , Kuilman M. M. , Glas A. M. , Wesseling J. , Lips E. H. , Sonke G. S.
Published: June 2023

Background

The introduction of pertuzumab has greatly improved pathological complete response (pCR) rates in HER2-positive breast cancer, yet effects on long-term survival have been limited and it is uncertain which patients derive most benefit. In this study, we determine the prognostic value of BluePrint subtyping in HER2-positive breast cancer. Additionally, we evaluate its use as a biomarker for predicting response to trastuzumab-containing neoadjuvant chemotherapy with or without pertuzumab.

Methods

From a cohort of patients with stage II-III HER2-positive breast cancer who were treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy and trastuzumab with or without pertuzumab, 836 patients were selected for microarray gene expression analysis, followed by readout of BluePrint standard (HER2, Basal and Luminal) and dual subtypes (HER2-single, Basal-single, Luminal-single, HER2-Basal, Luminal-HER2, Luminal-HER2-Basal). The associations between subtypes and pathological complete response (pCR), overall survival (OS) and breast cancer-specific survival (BCSS) were assessed, and pertuzumab benefit was evaluated within the BluePrint subgroups.

Results

BluePrint results were available for 719 patients. In patients with HER2-type tumors, the pCR rate was 71.9% in patients who received pertuzumab versus 43.5% in patients who did not (adjusted Odds Ratio 3.43, 95% CI 2.36–4.96). Additionally, a significantly decreased hazard was observed for both OS (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 0.45, 95% CI 0.25–0.80) and BCSS (aHR 0.46, 95% CI 0.24–0.86) with pertuzumab treatment. Findings were similar in the HER2-single subgroup. No significant benefit of pertuzumab was seen in other subtypes.

Conclusions

In patients with HER2-type or HER2-single-type tumors, pertuzumab significantly improved the pCR rate and decreased the risk of breast cancer mortality, which was not observed in other subtypes. BluePrint subtyping may be valuable in future studies to identify patients that are likely to be highly sensitive to HER2-targeting agents.
Characterization of novel loci controlling seed oil content in Brassica napus by marker metabolite-based multi-omics analysis
Authors: Li Long , Tian Zhitao , Chen Jie , Tan Zengdong , Zhang Yuting , Zhao Hu , Wu Xiaowei , Yao Xuan , Wen Weiwei , Chen Wei , Guo Liang
Published: June 2023

Background

Seed oil content is an important agronomic trait of Brassica napus (B. napus), and metabolites are considered as the bridge between genotype and phenotype for physical traits.

Results

Using a widely targeted metabolomics analysis in a natural population of 388 B. napus inbred lines, we quantify 2172 metabolites in mature seeds by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry, in which 131 marker metabolites are identified to be correlated with seed oil content. These metabolites are then selected for further metabolite genome-wide association study and metabolite transcriptome-wide association study. Combined with weighted correlation network analysis, we construct a triple relationship network, which includes 21,000 edges and 4384 nodes among metabolites, metabolite quantitative trait loci, genes, and co-expression modules. We validate the function of BnaA03.TT4, BnaC02.TT4, and BnaC05.UK, three candidate genes predicted by multi-omics analysis, which show significant impacts on seed oil content through regulating flavonoid metabolism in B. napus.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the advantage of utilizing marker metabolites integrated with multi-omics analysis to dissect the genetic basis of agronomic traits in crops.
Analysis of Notch1 signaling in mammalian sperm development
Authors: Sambe Naoto , Yoshihara Masaharu , Nishino Teppei , Sugiura Ryosuke , Nakayama Takahiro , Louis Chandra , Takahashi Satoru
Published: June 2023

Objective

A mammalian Delta-Notch signaling component, Notch1, has been suggested for its expression during the normal sperm development although its conditional deletion caused no apparent abnormalities. Since we established our original transgenic mouse system that enabled labeling of past and ongoing Notch1 signaling at a cellular level, we tried to validate that observation in vivo. Our transgenic mouse system used Cre/loxP system to induce tandem dsRed expression upon Notch1 signaling.

Results

To our surprise, we were unable to observe tandem dsRed expression in the seminiferous tubules where the sperms developed. In addition, tandem dsRed expression was lacking in the somatic cells of the next generation in our transgenic mouse system, suggesting that sperms received no Notch1 signaling during their development. To validate this result, we conducted re-analysis of four single-cell RNA-seq datasets from mouse and human testes and showed that Notch1 expression was little in the sperm cell lineage. Collectively, our results posed a question into the involvement of Notch1 in the normal sperm development although this observation may help the interpretation of the previous result that Notch1 conditional deletion caused no apparent abnormalities in murine spermatogenesis.
European survey on the use of patient contact shielding during radiological examinations
Authors: Granata Claudio , Briers Erik , Candela-Juan Cristian , Damilakis John , De Bondt Timo , Faj Dario , Foley Shane , Frija Guy , de las Heras Gala Hugo , Hiles Peter , Pauwels Ruben , Sans Merce Marta , Simantirakis Georgios , Vano Eliseo , Gilligan Patrick ,   the ESR, ESPR, EFOMP, EFRS, and EURADOS
Published: June 2023

Objectives

Contact shielding (CS) of patients during X-ray studies has been used for decades to protect radiosensitive organs. This practice has not changed much despite increasing evidence that CS is not useful in many cases. The Gonad And Patient Shielding (GAPS) group—founded by representatives of the main European bodies involved in radiology—promoted this survey to assess the current practice of CS among European radiology departments and the attitude towards a non-shielding policy.

Methods

Over a four-month period (15 May–15th September 2021) European Society of Radiology and European Society of Paediatric Radiology radiologist members were invited to respond to a web-based questionnaire consisting of 59 questions.

Results

225 centres from 35 countries responded to this survey. CS was routinely applied in at least one radiological modality in 49.2% of centres performing studies in adults, 57.5% of centres performing studies in children, and 47.8% of centres performing studies on pregnant women. CS was most frequently used in conventional radiography, where the most frequently shielded organs were the gonads, followed by thyroid, female breasts, and eye lens. 83.6% respondents would follow European recommendations on the use of CS when provided by the main European bodies involved in radiology.

Conclusions

This review shows that CS is still largely used across Europe. However, a non-shielding policy could be adopted in most departments if European professional societies provided recommendations. In this regard, a strong commitment by European and national professional societies to educate and inform practitioners, patients and carers is paramount.

Clinical relevance statement

According to this survey expectations of patients and carers, and skepticism among
professionals about the limited benefits of CS are the most important obstacles to the application of a no-shielding policy. A strong commitment from European and national professional societies to inform practitioners, patients and carers is fundamental.

Graphical Abstract
Performance evaluation of multivariate statistical techniques using edge-enabled optimisation for change detection in activity monitoring
Authors: Khan Naveed , McClean Sally , Zhang Shuai , Nugent Chris
Published: June 2023

The monitoring of human activities using simple body worn sensors is an important and emerging area of research in machine learning. The sensors capture a large amount of data in a short period of Time in a relatively un-obtrusive manner. The sensor data might have different transitions to be used for deification of different user activities. Therefore, change point detection can be used to classify the transition from one underlying distribution to another. The automatic and accurate change point detection is not only used for different events, however, can also be used for generating real world datasets and responding to changes in patient vital signs in critical situation. Moreover, the huge amount of data can use the current state-of-the-art cloud and edge computing platforms to process the change detection locally and more efficiently. In this paper, we used multivariate exponentially weighted moving Average (MEWMA) for online change point detection. Additionally, genetic algorithm (GA) and particle swarm optimization (PSO) is used to automatically identify an optimal parameter set by maximizing the F-measure. The optimisation approach is implemented over an edge cloud platform so that the data can be processed locally and more accurately. Furthermore, we evaluate our approach against multivariate cumulative sum (MCUSUM) from state-of the-art in terms of different metric measures such as accuracy, precision, sensitivity, G-means and F-measure. Results have been evaluated based on real data set collected using accelerometer for a set of 9 distinct activities performed by 10 users for total period of 35 minutes with achieving high accuracy from 99.3% to 99.9% and F-measure up to 62.94%.
Iterative cleaning and learning of big highly-imbalanced fraud data using unsupervised learning
Authors: Kennedy Robert K. L. , Salekshahrezaee Zahra , Villanustre Flavio , Khoshgoftaar Taghi M.
Published: June 2023

Fraud datasets often times lack consistent and accurate labels, and are characterized by having high class imbalance where the number of fraudulent examples are far fewer than those of normal ones. Machine learning designed for effectively detecting fraud is an important task since fraudulent behavior can have significant financial or health consequences, but is presented with significant challenges due to the class imbalance and availability of reliable labels. This paper presents an unsupervised fraud detection method that uses an iterative cleaning process for effective fraud detection. We measure our method performance using a newly created Medicare fraud big dataset and a widely used credit card fraud dataset. Additionally, we detail the process of creating the highly-imbalanced Medicare dataset from multiple publicly available sources, how additional trainable features were added, and how fraudulent labels were assigned for final model performance measurements. The results are compared with two popular unsupervised learners and show that our method outperforms both models in both datasets. Our work achieves a higher AUPRC with relatively few iterations across both domains.
Collagenases and their inhibitors: a review
Authors: Wu Sijin , Zhou Xuewei , Jin Zhicheng , Cheng Haiming
Published: June 2023

Hide and skin are complex tissue where the most abundant component is collagen. Matrix metalloproteinases and bacterial collagenases are two kinds of collagenases that can cleave the triple-helical domain of native fibrillar collagens. In this paper, the family members and domain composition of matrix metalloproteinases and bacterial collagenases are summarized. The catalytic mechanism of collagen hydrolysis by collagenases is described, and the methods adopted to date for investigating and regulating collagenases and their inhibitors are reviewed. Furthermore, the applications of collagenases and their inhibitors in biomedicine, food processing and the enzymatic unhairing process in the leather-making industry are presented.

Graphical Abstract
Climate change and mental health: a call to action to include mental health and psychosocial support services (MHPSS) in the Pakistan flood crisis
Authors: Riaz Mehr Muhammad Adeel , Nayyer Bismah , Lal Arush , Nawaz Faisal A. , Zil-e-Ali Ahsan
Published: June 2023

The recent flood crisis in Pakistan has had significant impacts on the physical, mental and socioeconomic fabric of almost 33 million people. Floods in Pakistan are leading to a range of negative impacts on health and major disruptions to healthcare services. The lack of mental health and psychosocial support services (MHPSS) is a significant concern in rural areas of Pakistan in providing support to communities affected by floods. It is important for the government and mental health policymakers to work with academic coalitions and non-governmental organisations to replicate low-resource MHPSS models that will develop and advocate for effective, gender-sensitive mental healthcare throughout the country.
Medical Encounters and Treatment Outcomes in Ironman-Distance Triathlon
Authors: NILSSEN PAAL K. , CONNOLLY CHRISTOPHER P. , JOHNSON KASEY B. , CHO STEPHANIE P. , COHOE BLAKE H. , MILLER THOMAS K. , LAIRD ROBERT H. , SALLIS ROBERT E. , HILLER W. DOUGLAS B.
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to examine the injury and illness characteristics, treatments, and outcomes at elite ultraendurance triathlon events.

Methods

We quantified participant demographics, injury types, treatments, and disposition for medical encounters at 27 Ironman-distance triathlon championships from 1989 to 2019. We then calculated the likelihood of concurrent medical complaints in each encounter.

Results

We analyzed 10,533 medical encounters among 49,530 race participants for a cumulative incidence of 221.9/1000 participants (95% confidence interval [CI] = 217.7–226.2). Younger (<35 yr; 259.3/1000, 95% CI = 251.6–267.2) and older athletes (70+ yr; 254.0/1000, 95% CI = 217.8–294.4) presented to the medical tent at higher rates than middle-age adults (36–69 yr; 180.1/1000, 95% CI = 175.4–185.0). Female athletes also presented at higher rates when compared with males (243.9/1000, 95% CI = 234.9–253.2 vs 198.0/1000, 95% CI = 193.4–202.6). The most common complaints were dehydration (438.7/1000, 95% CI = 426.2–451.6) and nausea (400.4/1000, 95% CI = 388.4–412.6). Intravenous fluid was the most common treatment (483/1000; 95% CI = 469.8–496.4). Of the athletes who received medical care, 116.7/1000 (95% CI = 110.1–123.4) did not finish the race, and 17.1/1000 (95% CI = 14.7–19.8) required hospital transport. Athletes rarely presented with an isolated medical condition unless their injury was dermatologic or musculoskeletal in nature.

Conclusions

Ultraendurance triathlon events have high rates of medical encounters among female athletes, as well as both younger and older age categories. Gastrointestinal and exertional-related symptoms are among the most common complaints. Intravenous infusions were the most common treatment after basic medical care. Most athletes entering the medical tent finished the race, and a small percentage were dispatched to the hospital. A more thorough understanding of common medical occurrences, including concurrent presentations and treatments, will allow for improved care and optimal race management.
SHIP LIGHTWEIGHT ESTIMATION AT CONCEPT DESIGN STAGE: CASE OF INDONESIA SINGLE ENDED RO-RO FERRIES
Authors: Dewanto Christoforus Chandra , Nasirudin Ahmad
Published: June 2023

In recent years there have been many crossing vessels, especially those designed and built domestically. At the concept design stage, designers generally use the parent ship design method to determine the main dimension by taking one example of a reference ship with specifications close to the owner's requirements. However, this will be an obstacle if the existing ship specifications are unavailable, so designers must be able to perform initial calculations, especially predictions of the Lightweight (LWT). This paper introduces empirical formulas that utilize regression analysis to estimate LWT of Indonesia Single Ended Ro-Ro ferries. The formula of LWT based on Gross Tonnage (GT) requirements are presented.
DESIGNING A BOAT HOTEL (BOTEL) FOR MARINE TOURISM ON TABUHAN ISLAND, BANYUWANGI REGENCY, EAST JAVA
Authors: H Hasanudin , Nasirudin Ahmad , Saputra Aditya Dwi
Published: June 2023

Tabuhan Island is one of the tourist islands in Banyuwangi Regency, which in 2020 was proclaimed by the Banyuwangi Regency government to become an international tourist destination. One of the efforts needed to make an international-class destination is to complete tourist objects with good infrastructure. One of the infrastructures that need to be completed is resorts and hotels. Design of Boat Hotel Catamaran (Botel Catamaran) is innovated with facilities equivalent to a 3-star hotel following the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy standards. This selection uses general dimension design parameters, which are then used in extensive travel and Botel facilities. Based on the calculations, the converted resistance of the engine has met the required power of 156 Hp. In addition, the calculation of the displacement-weight difference also showed a result of <9%, meeting the small ship margin requirement. The trim calculation also met SOLAS regulations with a result of 0% LWl < trim < 0.5% LWl. The freeboard calculation also met NCVS regulations with a result of Fb<(H-T). The tonnage calculation showed GT<500 GT, allowing the application of NCVS regulations. Finally, the comfort calculation (MSI) met the applicable ISO regulations. With these standardized calculation results, the engine is expected to operate optimally and safely. It was found that this ship has the final main dimensions, namely LoA = 29.26 m; Lpp = 28 m; B = 11.5 m; Height = 4 m; T=1.1m; B1 = 2.77; S = 6 m2 with a total of 6 rooms with a size of 30 m2 each and has been equipped with a restaurant and lounge. Then, the outline plan, general plan, and 3D model are drawn.
IDENTIFICATION OF GROUNDWATER POTENTIAL USING GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS AND REMOTE SENSING (CASE STUDY: MOJOKERTO REGENCY)
Authors: Sulle Beata Alpha Christina , Sunaryo Dedy Kurnia , Yulianandha Adkha
Published: June 2023

The impact of the drought problem in Mojokerto Regency resulted in thousands of people having access to clean water. So, it is necessary to plan the utilization of groundwater resources well. Therefore, more serious handling is needed in an effort to overcome the problem of groundwater supply. One of them is the availability of groundwater potential maps. This study aims to determine the identification of aquifer potential and groundwater potential in Mojokerto Regen cy in 2020. This research uses SPO T - 7 satellite imagery to see vegetation density using the NDVI method and uses 5 parameters, namely rainfall, soil texture, rock type/geology, slope, and land use. This study used the AHP method in determining the priority weight value of each parameter. Based on the results of the study, the results were obtained with 3 classifications with the largest area being an area with mode rate groundwater potential of 52,621.285 Ha and the smallest area being an area with low groundwater potential of 2,426.327 Ha. Previous research identified groundwater potential using the NDVI method with Landsat 8 imagery which has a resolution of 30 meters. Therefore, this research is expected to produce better vegetation density by using SPOT-7 imagery to obtain more detailed groundwater potential, because the resolution of the image SPO T -7 is 6 meters. So that this research can be considered in efforts to process the potential of groundwater resources in Mojokerto Regency
Teaching Science Out-of-field: Beliefs and Practices
Authors: Campbell Coral , Vale Colleen , Speldewinde Chris
Published: June 2023

Out-of-field teaching in science is a phenomenon in many secondary schools across the world. While the reasons for out-of-field teaching are complex, its incidence is heightened in low socio-economic communities and in regional and remote school locations. Research on out-of-field science teaching in secondary schools has tended to focus on teacher competence, particularly in relation to pedagogical content knowledge. However, while teachers’ beliefs and teaching practices within their specialist subject are shown to be related, it is unclear how teachers’ beliefs and practices alter when teaching across subject boundaries. Using a boundary-crossing lens, where teachers engage in passing back and forth between different contexts, this study explored the relationship between teachers’ beliefs about their in-field and out-of-field discipline (science) and the connections to their teaching practice. Interview data, including a video-stimulated interview of a lesson in a teacher’s specialist field and then a subsequent out-of-field lesson, were analysed using the framework of a belief that investigated the relationships between in-field and out-of-field beliefs and practices. Findings indicate that those who teach science out-of-field revert to traditional ways of teaching, despite being more open and adventurous in their in-field discipline areas. However, there were significant instances of boundary crossing with their pedagogy to support their teaching – both in-field and out-of-field. These findings support the development of structured mechanisms and strategies to assist teachers to cross boundaries to establish new and unique interdisciplinary practices.
Linear photogalvanic effects in monolayer ternary metallic compound Na2MgSn
Authors: Liu Jia , Niu JinYan , Ma YongHong , Chi Feng , Yi Zichuan , Liu Liming
Published: June 2023

The linear photogalvanic effect (LPGE) is investigated by using the non-equilibrium Green’s function (NEGF) technique combined with density functional theory (DFT) in monolayer Na2MgSn. We consider the cases of three different central regions, which are pure Na2MgSn, Na-vacancy, and Pb-substituted. It is found that both pure and defective Na2MgSn monolayers induce photoresponse under linearly polarized light. The photoresponse varies periodically as a form of either sinusoidal or cosinoidal function of the polarization angle. In the near-infrared and visible ranges, the photoresponse is more sensitive to the long wave range of visible light. In the case of single-atom defects, the photoresponse with Na-vacancy is larger than that of pb-substitution defects. Compared with the other two central regions, the maximum extinction ratio (ER) of Na-vacancy is larger, so it has higher polarization sensitivity. When the location of Na-vacancy is adjusted, the photoresponse changes obviously, and the Na 1*- vacancy has the largest photoresponse. With the increase of the Na-vacancy concentration, the photoresponse changes nonlinearly but is smaller than that of a single vacancy. A small bias voltage can greatly improve the photoresponse. Our results suggest an effective method to enhance the photoresponse and show the promise of Na2MgSn monolayers in optical detection.