bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extreme state prediction of long-span bridges using extended ACER method
Authors: Zhang Liping , Zhou Liming , Bu Jianqing , Xu Fei , Wei Bin , Xu Zhaofeng , Zhao Cunbao , Li Yiqiang , Chai Wei , Guo Shuanglin , Tian Yongding
Published: November 2023

An accurate prediction of the future service state of long-span bridges is crucial for the structural reliability evaluation, maintenance planning, and further life-cycle cost analysis. By extending the average conditional exceedance rate (ACER) statistical model and applying input–output data collected through a structural health monitoring (SHM) system, this paper proposes a novel methodology for predicting the future service state of long-span bridges. The advantages lie in the consideration of the main excitation load as the structural input and the strain response of the bridge as the output. Therefore, a mapping relationship between the extreme excitation load and extreme strain could be established, and the future service state of long-span bridges could be predicted. The proposed method comprises three steps: (1) extraction of the ambient temperature-induced strain and vehicle-induced strain from the measured strain series through the SHM system using the baseline estimation and denoising with sparsity (BEADS) method, (2) establishing statistical models of the extreme values of different excitations (input) and structural strains (output) using a cascade of conditioning approximations and the ACER to obtain the tail trend of the data and extrapolating it, and (3) establishing a functional relationship between the input and output extreme values based on the same conditions of the regression period at the target prediction level, after which the future service state of long-span bridges can be predicted. The proposed method is applied to a case study of the Jinchao Bridge in Guangdong Province, China, and the results are expected to provide a scientific reference for the design of new bridges and in the maintenance of existing ones in service.
Distal versus conventional transradial access for diagnostic cerebral angiography and neurointerventional procedures: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Orscelik Atakan , Senol Yigit Can , Kobeissi Hassan , Ghozy Sherief , Bilgin Cem , Arul Santhosh , Kadirvel Ramanathan , Brinjikji Waleed , Kallmes David F
Published: November 2023

Background

Distal transradial artery access (dTRA) has received increasing consideration for performing diagnostic cerebral angiography and neurointerventional procedures. In this meta-analysis, we aim to evaluate the safety and efficacy of dTRA compared to conventional transradial access (cTRA) for cerebral angiography and neurointerventions.

Method

A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted on studies investigating outcomes of dTRA and cTRA in neurointerventions. The primary outcome was technical success rates. Secondary outcomes included access site complication rates, crossover rates to alternative vessels, fluoroscopy time, and contrast volume. The random effects model was used to calculate the mean difference (MD) and odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (Cl).

Results

Eight retrospective observational studies with a total of 1477 patients who underwent 1175 diagnostic cerebral angiography and 516 neurointerventional procedures using 546 dTRA and 1164 cTRA approaches were included in our meta-analysis. The technical success rate was similar between dTRA and cTRA groups (95.8% vs 91.4%; OR:1.65; 95% Cl: 0.52 to 5.22; P = 0.40). Similarly, no difference was seen in dTRA and cTRA regarding access site complications (2% vs 1.4%; OR: 1.31; 95% CI: 0.47 to 3.61; P = 0.61) and access site crossover (2.1% vs 5.3%; OR: 0.55; 95% Cl: 0.28 to 1.05; P = 0.07). After resolving heterogeneity among included studies, dTRA was associated with a shorter fluoroscopy time (MD: −0.91 min; 95% CI: −1.74 to −0.09; P = 0.03) and lower contrast volume (MD: −8.32 mL; 95% CI = −14.7 to −1.94; P = 0.011).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that the dTRA approach is a safe and effective alternative to the cTRA approach in patients undergoing cerebral angiography and neurointerventions.
Determinant biomechanical variables for each sprint phase performance in track and field: A systematic review
Authors: Moura Túlio Bernardo Macedo Alfano , Leme Juliane Cristine , Nakamura Fábio Yuzo , Cardoso Jefferson Rosa , Moura Felipe Arruda
Published: November 2023

Sprint studies present several variables and methodologies for biomechanical analysis in different phases of running. The variability in the analysis of the sample and distance covered may impede the application of the results in track and field athletes. The objective of this systematic review was to characterize the determinant biomechanical variables analyzed in the literature in each sprint phase. Four electronic databases were used (MEDLINE, Web of Science, SportDiscus, and Scopus). Only biomechanical studies with track and field athletes were selected. After the identification, screening, and eligibility process, 109 studies were included for qualitative synthesis and analyzed by the risk of bias assessment. The studies were classified in different sprint phases, according to the sprint task described by the authors (sprint start = 27, acceleration = 32, constant speed = 8, deceleration = 4, and not specified = 38). Factors such as the center of mass position, contact time, force applied on the rear block, and athletes’ ability to generate high amounts of force in the shortest possible time influence the sprint start performance. The acceleration phase is characterized by step frequency and step length transition, propulsive force, and minimization of braking force. Consequently, directing the resulting force as vertically as possible in the braking phase and as horizontally as possible in the anterior direction during the propulsive phase is important during the constant speed phase. In the deceleration phase, the decrease in step frequency and the increase in contact time may influence speed maintenance and, consequently, the result.
Differences between genders and competitive levels on technical-tactical parameters in padel: Implications for training
Authors: de Ossó Ana Fernández , Pecci Javier , Sánchez-Trigo Horacio , Muñoz Diego , Escudero-Tena Adrián , León Juan
Published: November 2023

Padel is a complex racket sport with a wide variety of technical actions and tactical possibilities. The aim was to compare the duration of the rallies, the number of shots, the shot frequency and the shot frequency between elite and amateur padel players of different genders, which is necessary to guide the training process. The results show that the duration of the rally is longer in elite padel than in amateur padel, both in men ( p < 0.001) and in women ( p < 0.001). In addition, according to gender, greater in women's padel than in men's padel, both in elite ( p < 0.001) and amateur ( p < 0.001). The number of shots per point is greater in elite padel than in amateur padel, both in men ( p < 0.001) and in women ( p < 0.001). Furthermore, according to gender, greater in women’s padel than in men’s padel in elite padel ( p < 0.001) and no significant differences were found in amateur padel ( p  =  0.800). The shot frequency is longer in elite padel ( X̅: 0.87) than amateur padel ( X̅: 0.82) and in men padel ( X̅: 0.86) than women padel ( X̅: 0.82), although no significant differences were found. Finally, the player on the right tends to hits the ball less than the player on the left (except women elite players). These results are highly relevant for coaches, as they allow them to guide training processes and quantify the specific workloads of the match based on the gender and level of the players.
The Lernaean Hydra on the internet: Deplatformization-resistant media ecosystem of the Islamic State
Authors: Gulyás Attila , Demeter Márton , Besenyő Janos
Published: November 2023

While certain areas of the Islamic State’s activities (propaganda, recruitment, etc.) are well researched, there have been few studies covering the efforts of the organization to neutralize deplatformization, even though its inclusion in a unified system makes it possible to successfully fight against the organization. The present study investigated the Tactics, Techniques and Procedures (TTPs) applied by the Islamic State to maintain its online presence against the deplatforming efforts of law enforcement agencies and social media stakeholders. A closely related topic, namely the key components of the organization’s successful internet activity, is also examined in this article. During the research, authors mapped and plotted one part of the Islamic State’s internet ecosystem to discover the pattern in this interconnected network. Furthermore, the authors elaborated on a volunteer computing based recommendation for paralysing Islamic State-linked websites.
Lean flameout characteristics and unsteady dynamics of swirling non-premixed flame with and without outer flame
Authors: Qi Yuanhong , Hu Bin , Qiang Shi , Peng Jiangbo , Wei Zhao , Zhao Qingjun
Published: November 2023

The planar laser induced hydroxyl fluorescence (OH-PLIF) technique was used to study three kinds of swirling flame, namely flames I, II, and III, by changing swirl conditions. According to the PLIF results, double structure exists in flames I and II. The inner flame burns in the inner shear layer and is anchored by vortex breakdown, which is similar to the M- or V-shaped flame. The unique outer flame is attached to the inner wall of the air annular nozzle and burns in the outer shear layer. The lean blowout (LBO) equivalent ratio of swirling flame with outer flame is lower than that without outer flame. It is interesting to compare the LBO mechanisms among the three types and the traditional swirling flame, and investigate their unsteady characteristics. Firstly, the flameout process of flames I and II starts from the local extinguishing at the root of the outer flame. However, the LBO process of flame III is consistent with that of traditional swirling flame, that is, it starts with repeated extinguishing and reigniting at the root of the inner recirculation zone (IRZ). Secondly, the unsteady characteristics of the three flames are analyzed by spectral proper orthogonal decomposition. It is found that flame oscillations, asymmetric disturbances, and longitudinal disturbances of different frequencies exist in different combinations under near-LBO conditions. In particular, asymmetric and P-wave disturbances mainly exist in the inner shear layer and jet breaking down, which further indicates the stability and anti-LBO potential of the outer flame.
The human touch in a digital era: Culture, technology and capabilities at precursor assurance
Authors: Perdana Arif , Jutasompakorn Pearpilai , Carroll Charles , Lim Jawn
Published: November 2023

While technological advancements have reshaped numerous industries, the human factor remains paramount, providing unmatched advisory expertise. A central element of the storyline in this paper is the company Precursor Assurance. This local Singaporean accounting firm exemplifies how technological advancements, and the involvement of humans are seamlessly integrated. With KG Tan as its leader, the company promotes a work environment that values transparency, respect, and trust while emphasising grit and flexibility. The case depicts a scenario wherein technology amplifies human potentials in accounting rather than supplanting them.
Nothing new under the sun: Medical professional maintenance in the face of artificial intelligence's disruption
Authors: Avnoon Netta , Oliver Amalya L
Published: November 2023

This paper follows the reaction of the radiology profession to artificial intelligence (AI). We examine the effort of radiology as a powerful medical specialty to maintain its professional jurisdiction while allowing AI's disruption. We study the discursive work of radiologists as evident in their academic publications. Our results suggest that radiologists hold simultaneously multiple perspectives in regard to AI, which allow them to be both conservative and innovative in their relations to it: accept it, subordinate it, reject it and surrender to it, all the same time. These perspectives are: (a) to integrate AI tools and skills into the radiology profession by cooperating and coproducing with AI experts while preserving the core values and structures of the radiology profession; (b) to absorb AI into radiology as (yet another) technology, subordinating it to radiologists’ authority; (c) to fight-off the threat made by AI by undermining the legitimacy and capabilities of AI in radiology and strengthening professional boundaries and (d) to assimilate the radiology profession into the field of AI. These perspectives enable radiologists as a powerful medical specialty to engage in a rhetorical dance with the equally powerful AI specialty and challenge techno-optimistic approaches to innovation.
A digital innovation typology: Navigating the complexity of emerging technologies to negotiate health systems research with young people
Authors: Swist Teresa , Collin Philippa , Lewis John , Medlow Sharon , Williams Ian , Davies Cristyn , Steinbeck Katharine
Published: November 2023

Objective

This study aims to explore young people's perspectives of emerging technologies and health systems research in an adolescent health community of practice.

Methods

The context of this integrated knowledge translation study is the Wellbeing Health & Youth Centre of Research Excellence in Adolescent Health. A theory-building, non-systematic review was conducted to examine the concepts and interrelationships of emerging technologies associated with digital innovation and health systems. This typology informed the design of an online workshop with young people to explore their views, concerns, and ideas about health systems research.

Results

A digital innovation typology was identified to differentiate and explain emerging technology concepts and interrelationships that can be applied to the health systems context. Aligned with this typology, youth perspectives about digital health challenges and opportunities were identified to support future research, policy, and practice.

Conclusion

The integrated findings from this study can assist the navigation of complex emerging technologies, and the negotiation of equitable health systems research, between youth and adult stakeholders. Further, with these typology-related resources, mutual learning and the public involvement of young people in health systems research and priority setting agendas can be supported.
Emotion Work on Social Media: Differences in Public and Private Emotions about Politics and COVID-19 on Facebook
Authors: Van Duyn Emily , Muddiman Ashley
Published: November 2023

Research has found that individuals may engage with emotions differently depending on social media platforms and/or social norms. Yet it remains unclear how individuals deal with emotions differently depending on whether the communication is public or private or depending on the topic. Using a 2 × 2 experimental design, we find that people engage in emotion work on social media, noting a difference in experienced emotion during the process of opinion expression and expressed emotion in the expression itself across both publicness and the topic of the message. Specifically, we find that those who express an opinion publicly or about politics in general experienced more anger than those who express an opinion privately or about COVID-19, who tended to express more anxiety. Yet patterns of emotional experience and expression were not always consistent. These results suggest individuals experience and express emotions differently depending on the publicness and topic of their communication. We discuss implications for how scholars conceptualize and study political expression on social media.
Investigating Human Physiological Responses to Work-Related Stress
Authors: Uba Jimmy , Nuamah Joseph
Published: November 2023

Studies have shown that work-related stress is one of the causes of employee burnout, fatigue, and cognitive dysfunction, among other negative effects. Physiological features have been used to investigate stress, but more knowledge is needed in understanding physiological indicators of work-related stress. Moreover, to the best of our knowledge, no study is available that integrates both pupillometry and heart rate in investigating work-related stress. We, therefore, utilized task-evoked pupillary response (TEPR) from pupillometry and heart rate (HR), in the assessment of physiological responses of 32 subjects during the performance of Multi-Attribute Task Battery-II consisting of working baseline and stress conditions. A comparison of results of both conditions showed that TEPR and mean HR significantly increased during stress condition, as compared to working baseline condition. These results are attributed to the work related-stressors integrated in our study, thereby bolstering the applicability of heart rate and pupillometry in studies of work-related stress.
International Classification of Function, Disability and Health (ICF) Word Mapping to Determine the Human Functioning Associated with Upper Extremity Surgery for Tetraplegia
Authors: Anne Sinnott Jerram K , Dunn Jennifer A , Smaill Richard P , Middleton James W
Published: November 2023

Understanding human functioning and disablement, the contributing factors and their interactions in individuals with tetraplegia is important since elective upper extremity (UE) reconstructive surgery is now offered earlier after injury prior to full recognition of what lies ahead. Qualitative and quantitative data were available from a prior series of mixed methods studies, including a case series design capturing the patients’ lived-experience perspectives of nerve or tendon transfer surgery, or not as the case may be. The objective of this study was to perform secondary data analysis to determine whether the recommended outcome tools being used by clinicians reflect the all important domains of functioning identified by people with tetraplegia who were considering UE reconstructive procedures. The original 18 candidate themes derived from qualitative analysis were reviewed in retrospect, along with a content analysis of the tools’ questions, undertaking word mapping links to the ICF taxonomy. The outcomes tools included in the content analysis were the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure, the Capabilities of Upper Extremity Questionnaire, The Personal Wellbeing Index, and the Grasp and Release Test. Comparison between clinical outcomes tools and the patient lived-experience data uniquely identified links to Chapter1 (b) Mental functions, which include consciousness, orientation, temperament/personality, energy/drive, and higher-level cognition.
Developing competencies for volunteer navigators to support caregivers of children living with medical complexity: a mixed-method e-Delphi study
Authors: Thomas Robyn , Pesut Barbara , Siden Hal , Treschow Michael , Puurveen Gloria
Published: November 2023

Background:

Providing specially trained volunteer navigators is one promising strategy for supporting the increasing number of family caregivers who are caring for children living with medical complexity.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to develop consensus on the role and competencies required for volunteer navigators who support caregivers of children living with medical complexity.

Design:

This was a mixed-method study using modified e-Delphi and focus group methods. In phase 1, a modified e-Delphi survey with 20 family caregivers and a focus group with 4 family caregivers were conducted to develop consensus on their unmet needs and the potential roles of a volunteer to meet those needs. In phase 2, a modified e-Delphi survey was conducted with experts to develop consensus on the volunteer competencies required to meet the roles identified by family caregivers in phase 1.

Results:

Findings from phase 1 resulted in 36 need-related items over 8 domains: communication, daily life and chores, emotional support, information and knowledge, respite, support with decision-making, and sharing the caregiving experience. Concerns about the volunteer role included the potential lack of commitment in the absence of remuneration, the complexity of the child’s condition that was beyond the role of a volunteer, and a preference for support from individuals they knew. Findings from the phase 2 Delphi survey with professionals resulted in 22 competencies, derived from the roles identified in phase 1, that would be required of volunteers who wished to support these family caregivers.

Conclusion:

This study provides insight into a role for volunteers in meeting the needs of family caregivers of children living with medical complexity. A volunteer with lived experience and adequate preparation can assist with meeting some of these important needs. Further research is required to better understand the feasibility and acceptability of such a role.
Study protocol of the HD-MED study aiming to personalize drug treatment in Huntington’s disease: a longitudinal, observational study to assess medication use and efficacy in relation to pharmacogenetics
Authors: Feleus Stephanie , van der Lee Maaike , Swen Jesse J. , Roos Raymund A. C. , de Bot Susanne T.
Published: November 2023

Background:

Huntington’s disease (HD) is a hereditary, neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor, cognitive, and psychiatric symptoms. Currently, HD can only be managed symptomatically, including a large variety of prescribed drugs. Many HD patients experience negative medication effects (e.g. side effects or non-response). Pharmacogenetic (PGx) studies show how genetic variation affects both medication efficacy and toxicity and holds the potential to improve these outcomes of drug treatment.

Primary objective:

To classify the effect of the PGx profile of CYP2C19 and CYP2D6 in HD gene expansion carriers on negative medication effects of HD-related medication.

Design:

Multicenter, observational study with 1-year follow-up. Adult HD gene expansion carriers who use one or more HD-related medications are eligible to participate.

Methods and analysis:

A detailed overview of medication use, medication efficacy, and side effects is retrospectively and prospectively collected via medication diaries, questionnaires, phone calls, and pharmacy medication verification schemes. PGx analysis on whole blood-extracted DNA is performed with Agena Bioscience VeriDose® Core Panel and long-range polymerase chain reaction copy number variation analysis. Per the study protocol-defined negative medication effects in HD gene expansion carriers with a genotype predicted poor or ultrarapid metabolizer phenotype will be compared with HD gene expansion carriers with a predicted intermediate and normal metabolizer phenotype. Frequencies will be analyzed via χ2 and logistic multivariate regression analysis. In addition, we summarize in this manuscript HD-relevant PGx prescription recommendations to improve drug therapy.

Ethics:

The original study protocol was approved by the medical research ethics committee Leiden Den Haag Delft on 26 November 2019.

Discussion:

HD-MED is a low-risk study that will generate personalized PGx results that can immediately be implemented in clinical practice, thus potentially improving pharmacovigilance and patients’ quality of life.

Registration:

This study is registered in the International Clinical Trial Registry Platform under registration number NL8251, URL https://trialsearch.who.int/Trial2.aspx?TrialID=NL8251 .
We cannot find peace in restlessness. How the neuroscience supports psychotherapeutic practice
Authors: Vetere Arlene
Published: November 2023

In this article, I explore how some of the more recent developments in the neuroscience based understanding of human brain and body functioning both illuminates and underpins aspects of psychotherapeutic practice. Psychotherapists have accumulated much wisdom about people and their relationships, based on observation and fine-tuned feedback from therapy practice. Psychotherapists have always known that relational stress and high levels of arousal impact intimate communication in difficult relational moments – it slows information processing, makes it harder to read facial cues and makes it more likely we become preoccupied with our own affective state, along with a self-defensive impediment to listening. Our increased knowledge of these brain and body states helps to guide the therapist and client to effective action. It is my contention that systemic training needs to include human physiology and anatomy as a core part of learning.
Demonstrating the Benefits of Antihypertensive Nighttime Dosing and Indapamide Usage in Hypertension Management
Authors: Newsome Jonathan S.
Published: November 2023

Background: Uncontrolled hypertension, specifically nocturnal hypertension, increases the risk for significant clinical outcomes. Evidence on the use of nighttime antihypertensives is scant and conflicting. In addition, hydrochlorothiazide continues to be the primary thiazide used despite being the least potent. Objective: The primary purpose of this study was to evaluate instituting nighttime dosing to control hypertension and compare the short-term effectiveness of blood pressure control with indapamide versus hydrochlorothiazide. Methods: This was a retrospective, observational study. Participant inclusion criteria consisted of patients 18 years of age or older, a current diagnosis of hypertension, and hypertension that required medical therapy. The investigator documented whether a patient was taking at least one antihypertensive at night versus all morning medications, as well as the use of indapamide versus hydrochlorothiazide. The patient’s baseline and first follow-up blood pressure readings were documented. The primary outcome was to determine whether including nighttime dosing in antihypertensive regimens is more effective than all morning antihypertensive regimens. The secondary outcome was to determine whether indapamide was more effective than hydrochlorothiazide. Results: A total of 64 patients were included in the study. Twenty-eight patients were taking >1 nighttime antihypertensives versus 32 patients on all morning medications. Patients on at least one nighttime medication demonstrated greater systolic blood pressure reduction. There was no difference in blood pressure reduction between indapamide and hydrochlorothiazide. Conclusion: The study findings support the use of nighttime dosing to improve blood pressure management. The results on the effectiveness of indapamide versus hydrochlorothiazide conflict with previous research.
Transient responses and significant toxicities of anti-CD30 CAR T cells for CD30+ lymphomas: results of a phase 1 trial
Authors: Brudno Jennifer N. , Natrakul Danielle A. , Karrs Jeremiah , Patel Nisha , Maass-Moreno Roberto , Ahlman Mark A. , Mikkilineni Lekha , Mann Jennifer , Stroncek David F. , Highfill Steven L. , Fromm Genevieve C. , Patel Rashmika , Pittaluga Stefania , Kochenderfer James N.
Published: November 2023

New treatments are needed for relapsed and refractory CD30-expressing lymphomas. We developed a novel anti-CD30 chimeric antigen receptor (CAR), designated 5F11-28Z. Safety and feasibility of 5F11-28Z–transduced T cells (5F11-Ts) were evaluated in a phase 1 dose escalation clinical trial. Patients with CD30-expressing lymphomas received 300 mg/m2 or 500 mg/m2 of cyclophosphamide and 30 mg/m2 of fludarabine on days −5 to −3, followed by infusion of 5F11-Ts on day 0. Twenty-one patients received 5F11-T infusions. Twenty patients had classical Hodgkin lymphoma, and 1 had anaplastic large-cell lymphoma. Patients were heavily pretreated, with a median of 7 prior lines of therapy and substantial tumor burden, with a median metabolic tumor volume of 66.1 mL (range, 6.4-486.7 mL). The overall response rate was 43%; 1 patient achieved a complete remission. Median event-free survival was 13 weeks. Eleven patients had cytokine release syndrome (CRS; 52%). One patient had grade 3 CRS, and there was no grade 4/5 CRS. Neurologic toxicity was minimal. Nine patients (43%) had new-onset rashes. Two patients (9.5%) received extended courses of corticosteroids for prolonged severe rashes. Five patients (24%) had grade 3/4 cytopenias, with recovery time of ≥30 days, and 2 of these patients (9.5%) had prolonged cytopenias with courses complicated by life-threatening sepsis. The trial was halted early because of toxicity. Median peak blood CAR+ cells per μL was 26 (range, 1-513 cells per μL), but no infiltration of CAR+ cells was detected in lymph node biopsies. 5F11-Ts had low efficacy and substantial toxicities, which limit further development of 5F11-Ts. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT03049449.
Candidate biomarkers for treatment benefit from sunitinib in patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma using mass spectrometry-based (phospho)proteomics
Authors: van der Wijngaart Hanneke , Beekhof Robin , Knol Jaco C. , Henneman Alex A. , de Goeij-de Haas Richard , Piersma Sander R. , Pham Thang V. , Jimenez Connie R. , Verheul Henk M. W. , Labots Mariette
Published: November 2023

The tyrosine kinase inhibitor sunitinib is an effective first-line treatment for patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Hypothesizing that a functional read-out by mass spectrometry-based (phospho, p-)proteomics will identify predictive biomarkers for treatment outcome of sunitinib, tumor tissues of 26 RCC patients were analyzed. Eight patients had primary resistant (RES) and 18 sensitive (SENS) RCC. A 78 phosphosite signature (p < 0.05, fold-change > 2) was identified; 22 p-sites were upregulated in RES (unique in RES: BCAR3, NOP58, EIF4A2, GDI1) and 56 in SENS (35 unique). EIF4A1/EIF4A2 were differentially expressed in RES at the (p-)proteome and, in an independent cohort, transcriptome level. Inferred kinase activity of MAPK3 (p = 0.026) and EGFR (p = 0.045) as determined by INKA was higher in SENS. Posttranslational modifications signature enrichment analysis showed that different p-site-centric signatures were enriched (p < 0.05), of which FGF1 and prolactin pathways in RES and, in SENS, vanadate and thrombin treatment pathways, were most significant. In conclusion, the RCC (phospho)proteome revealed differential p-sites and kinase activities associated with sunitinib resistance and sensitivity. Independent validation is warranted to develop an assay for upfront identification of patients who are intrinsically resistant to sunitinib.
Tacrolimus reverses pemphigus vulgaris serum-induced depletion of desmoglein in HaCaT cells via inhibition of heat shock protein 27 phosphorylation
Authors: Xie Zhimin , Dai Xiangnong , Li Qingqing , Lin Sifan , Ye Xingdong
Published: November 2023

Background

Glucocorticoids are the first-line treatment for Pemphigus vulgaris (PV), but its serious side effects can be life-threatening for PV patients. Tacrolimus (FK506) has been reported to have an adjuvant treatment effect against PV. However, the mechanism underlying the inhibitory effect of FK506 on PV-IgG-induced acantholysis is unclear.

Objective

The objective of this study was to explore the effect of FK506 on desmoglein (Dsg) expression and cell adhesion in an immortalized human keratinocyte cell line (HaCaT cells) stimulated with PV sera.

Methods

A cell culture model of PV was established by stimulating HaCaT cells with 5% PV sera with or without FK506 and clobetasol propionate (CP) treatment. The effects of PV sera on intercellular junctions and protein levels of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38MAPK), heat shock protein 27 (HSP27), and Dsg were assayed using western blot analysis, immunofluorescence staining, and a keratinocyte dissociation assay.

Results

PV sera-induced downregulation of Dsg3 was observed in HaCaT cells and was blocked by FK506 and/or CP. Immunofluorescence staining revealed that linear deposits of Dsg3 on the surface of HaCaT cells in the PV sera group disappeared and were replaced by granular and agglomerated fluorescent particles on the cell surface; however, this effect was reversed by FK506 and/or CP treatment. Furthermore, cell dissociation assays showed that FK506 alone or in combination with CP increased cell adhesion in HaCaT cells and ameliorated loss of cell adhesion induced by PV sera. Additionally, FK506 noticeably decreased the PV serum-induced phosphorylation of HSP 27, but had no effect on p38MAPK phosphorylation.

Conclusion

FK506 reverses PV-IgG induced-Dsg depletion and desmosomal dissociation in HaCaT cells, and this effect may be obtained by inhibiting HSP27 phosphorylation.
Transcriptomic characterization of Trichoderma harzianum T34 primed tomato plants: assessment of biocontrol agent induced host specific gene expression and plant growth promotion
Authors: Aamir Mohd , Shanmugam V. , Dubey Manish Kumar , Husain Fohad Mabood , Adil Mohd , Ansari Waquar Akhter , Rai Ashutosh , Sah Pankaj
Published: November 2023

In this study, we investigated the intricate interplay between Trichoderma and the tomato genome, focusing on the transcriptional and metabolic changes triggered during the late colonization event. Microarray probe set (GSE76332) was utilized to analyze the gene expression profiles changes of the un-inoculated control (tomato) and Trichoderma-tomato interactions for identification of the differentially expressed significant genes. Based on principal component analysis and R-based correlation, we observed a positive correlation between the two cross-comaparable groups, corroborating the existence of transcriptional responses in the host triggered by Trichoderma priming. The statistically significant genes based on different p-value cut-off scores [(padj-values or q-value); padj-value < 0.05], [(pcal-values); pcal-value < 0.05; pcal < 0.01; pcal < 0.001)] were cross compared. Through cross-comparison, we identified 156 common genes that were consistently significant across all probability thresholds, and showing a strong positive corelation between p-value and q-value in the selected probe sets. We reported TD2, CPT1, pectin synthase, EXT-3 (extensin-3), Lox C, and pyruvate kinase (PK), which exhibited upregulated expression, and Glb1 and nitrate reductase (nii), which demonstrated downregulated expression during Trichoderma-tomato interaction. In addition, microbial priming with Trichoderma resulted into differential expression of transcription factors related to systemic defense and flowering including MYB13, MYB78, ERF2, ERF3, ERF5, ERF-1B, NAC, MADS box, ZF3, ZAT10, A20/AN1, polyol sugar transporter like zinc finger proteins, and a novel plant defensin protein. The potential bottleneck and hub genes involved in this dynamic response were also identified. The protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analysis based on 25 topmost DEGS (pcal-value < 0.05) and the Weighted Correlation Gene Network Analysis (WGCNA) of the 1786 significant DEGs (pcal-value < 0.05) we reported the hits associated with carbohydrate metabolism, secondary metabolite biosynthesis, and the nitrogen metabolism. We conclude that the Trichoderma-induced microbial priming re-programmed the host genome for transcriptional response during the late colonization event and were characterized by metabolic shifting and biochemical changes specific to plant growth and development. The work also highlights the relevance of statistical parameters in understanding the gene regulatory dynamics and complex regulatory networks based on differential expression, co-expression, and protein interaction networks orchestrating the host responses to beneficial microbial interactions.
Clinical characteristics of hospitalized patients with Nocardia genus detection by metagenomic next generation sequencing in a tertiary hospital from southern China
Authors: Liang Yingjian , Lin Minmin , Qiu Lidi , Chen Meizhu , Tan Cuiyan , Tu Changli , Zheng Xiaobin , Liu Jing
Published: November 2023

Objective

As an opportunistic pathogen, Nocardia often occurring in the immunocompromised hosts. As the unspecifc clinical presentation and low identification rate of the culture dependent methods, Nocardia infection may be under-diagnosis. Recent study have reported physicians could benefit from metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) in Nocardia diagnosis. Herein, we present patients with a positive detection of nocardiosis in mNGS, aiming to provide useful information for an differential diagnosis and patients management.

Methods

A total of 3756 samples detected for mNGS from March 2019 to April 2022 at the Fifth Affifiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, were screened. Clinical records, laboratory finding, CT images and mNGS results were reviewed for 19 patients who were positive for Nocardia genus.

Results

Samples from low respiratory tract obtained by bronchoscope took the major part of the positive (15/19). 12 of 19 cases were diagnosis as Nocardiosis Disease (ND) and over half of the ND individuals (7/12) were geriatric. Nearly all of them (10/12) were immunocompetent and 2 patients in ND group were impressively asymptomatic. Cough was the most common symptom. Nocardia cyriacigeorgica (4/12) was more frequently occurring in ND, followed by Nocardia abscessus (3/12). There are 3 individuals detected more than one kind of Nocardia species (Supplementary table 1). Except one with renal failure and one allergic to sulfamethoxazole, all of them received co-sulfonamide treatment and relieved eventually.

Conclusion

Our study deciphered the clinical features of patients with positive nocardiosis detected by mNGS. Greater attention should be paid to the ND that occurred in the immunocompetent host and the geriatric. Due to the difficulties in establishing diagnosis of Nocardiosis disease, mNGS should play a much more essential role for a better assessment in those intractable cases. Co-sulfonamide treatment should still be the first choice of Nocardiosis disease.
Bacterial profile and prevalence of urinary tract infections in pregnant women in Latin America: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: de Souza Henrique Diório , Diório Giselle Rodrigues Mota , Peres Stela Verzinhasse , Francisco Rossana Pulcineli Vieira , Galletta Marco Aurélio Knippel
Published: November 2023

Background

Given the physiological changes during pregnancy, pregnant women are likely to develop recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) and pyelonephritis, which may result in adverse obstetric outcomes, including prematurity and low birth weight preeclampsia. However, data on UTI prevalence and bacterial profile in Latin American pregnant women remain scarce, necessitating the present systematic review to address this issue.

Methods

To identify eligible observational studies published up to September 2022, keywords were systematically searched in Medline/PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, and Bireme/Lilacs electronic databases and Google Scholar. The systematic review with meta-analysis followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, and the quality of studies was classified according to the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guidelines. The meta-analysis employed a random-effects method with double-arcsine transformation in the R software.

Results

Database and manual searches identified 253,550 citations published until September 2022. Among the identified citations, 67 met the inclusion criteria and were included in the systematic review, corresponding to a sample of 111,249 pregnant women from nine Latin American countries. Among Latin American pregnant women, the prevalence rates of asymptomatic bacteriuria, lower UTI, and pyelonephritis were estimated at 18.45% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 15.45–21.53), 7.54% (95% CI: 4.76–10.87), and 2.34% (95% CI: 0.68–4.85), respectively. Some regional differences were also detected. Among the included studies, Escherichia coli (70%) was identified as the most frequently isolated bacterial species, followed by Klebsiella sp. (6.8%).

Conclusion

Pregnant women in Latin America exhibit a higher prevalence of bacteriuria, UTI, and pyelonephritis than pregnant women globally. This scenario reinforces the importance of universal screening with urine culture during early prenatal care to ensure improved outcomes. Future investigations should assess the microbial susceptibility profiles of uropathogens isolated from pregnant women in Latin America.

Trial registration

This research was registered at PROSPERO (No. CRD42020212601).
Frequency of depression and correlates among Chinese children and adolescents living in poor areas under the background of targeted poverty alleviation: results of a survey in Weining county
Authors: Yuan Xiaofei , Hu Tingting , Zhu Xiaorui , Dong Sixin , Wang Gang , Chen Xu , Zhou Jiaojiao
Published: November 2023

Background

There is a lack of epidemiological data on depressive morbidity in children and adolescents in rural China. This study determines the frequency and correlates of depression among children and adolescents to offer useful insights for family education and government policy-making in rural China.

Methods

A cross-sectional online survey was conducted between April 20 to May 10, 2022. Depression was assessed using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), and the correlative factors of depression were analyzed.

Results

In this study, 23,180 children and adolescents were enrolled (median (range) age: 12 (9–18) years); of them, 8,261 (35.6%) suffered from depression with a CES-D score of > 15. The onset of depression was significantly related to age, grade, gender, parental absence, attending key schools or classes, presence of moderate or severe internet addiction (IA), school record, social relationships, parental occupation, and education status. Furthermore, female gender (OR = 1.175; 95% CI: 1.108–1.247; p < 0.001), junior middle school (OR = 1.487; 95% CI: 1.380–1.601; p < 0.001), parental absence (OR = 1.272; 95% CI: 1.183–1.367; p < 0.001), attending key schools (OR = 1.221; 95% CI: 1.120–1.332; p < 0.001), attending key classes (OR = 1.099; 95% CI: 1.001–1.207; p = 0.048), and presence of moderate or above IA (OR = 13.593; 95% CI: 12.028–15.361; p < 0.001) were the most prominent independent factors for depression.

Conclusion

Depression is very common among Chinese children and adolescents living in poor areas of Weining County. Older age, higher school grade, female gender, parental absence, attending key schools or classes, and the presence of moderate to severe IA are some important factors that may dictate the occurrence of depression in these children and adolescents.
Effects of health education during public health emergencies on the health literacy, emotion and coping style of Chinese junior middle school students: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wang Zhou , Gao Tingye , Li Guangjian , Dong Gengjuan , Zhan Yan , Wang Bingqin , Sun Xugui
Published: November 2023

Background

Schools are high incidence places for public health emergencies. Good health literacy helps students cope with public health emergencies. Overall, the health literacy of young students is relatively low. Health education can promote health literacy, but the health education related to public health emergencies for Chinese junior middle school students needs to be improved. To design and implement health education courses related to public health emergencies for junior middle school students and examine the impact on their health literacy, emotions, and coping styles.

Methods

From March to December 2022, 724 students in Grade 7 and Grade 8 of two junior middle schools in Changzhou were randomly divided into a course group (n = 359) and a control group (n = 365). The course group received an age-appropriate health education course that addressed public health emergencies; there were 12 classes, one per week. The control group received general health education. One week before and after the courses, the two groups of students were assessed with the Adolescent Health Literacy Evaluation Scale under Public Health Emergencies (AHLES-PHE), the Depression Self-Rating Scale for Children (DSRSC), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item scale (GAD-7), and the Simplified Coping Style Questionnaire (SCSQ).

Results

After the courses were completed, the scores of AHLES-PHE [156.0 (45.0,180.0) vs. 165.0 (54.0,180.0), P < 0. 05] in the course group increased significantly. The positive rate of DSRSC [81 (22.6%) vs. 57 (15.9%), P < 0.05] and GAD-7 [45 (12.5%) vs. 29 (8.1), P < 0.05]in the course group were significantly lower than those before courses. There was no significant difference in the above indices before and after courses in the control group (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

This suggests that the health education courses related to public health emergencies designed in this study has an effect on improving health literacy, depression and anxiety in junior middle school students.
Comparison of short-term efficacy analysis of medium-rectal cancer surgery with robotic natural orifice specimen extraction and robotic transabdominal specimen extraction
Authors: Ye Shan-ping , Lu Wei-jie , Liu Dong-ning , Yu Hong-xin , Wu Can , Xu Hao-cheng , Li Tai-yuan
Published: November 2023

Background

With the development of minimally invasive technology, the trauma caused by surgery get smaller, At the same time, the specimen extraction surgery through the natural orifice is more favored by experts domestically and abroad, robotic surgery has further promoted the development of specimen extraction surgery through the natural orifice. The aim of current study is to compare the short-term outcomes of robotic-assisted natural orifice specimen extraction (NOSES ) and transabdominal specimen extraction(TRSE ) in median rectal cancer surgery.

Methods

From January 2020 to January 2023, 87 patients who underwent the NOSES or TRSE at the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University were included in the study, 4 patients were excluded due to liver metastasis. Of these, 50 patients were in the TRSE and 33 patients in the NOSES. Short-term efficacy was compared in the two groups.

Results

The NOSES group had less operation time (P < 0.001), faster recovery of gastrointestinal function (P < 0.001), shorter abdominal incisions (P < 0.001), lower pain scores(P < 0.001). lower Inflammatory indicators of the white blood cell count and C-reactive protein content at 1, 3, and 5 days after surgery (P < 0.001, P = 0.037). There were 9 complications in the NOSES group and 11 complications in the TRSE group(P = 0.583). However, there were no wound complications in the NOSES group. The number of postoperative hospital stays seems to be same in the two groups. And there was no significant difference in postoperative anus function (P = 0.591).

Conclusions

This study shows that NOSES and TRSE can achieve similar radical treatment effects, NOSES is a feasible and safe way to take specimens for rectal cancer surgery in accordance with the indication for NOSES.