bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sacubitril/valsartan improves all-cause mortality in heart failure patients with reduced ejection fraction and chronic kidney disease
Authors: Lee Wei-Chieh , Liao Ting-Wei , Chen Tien-Yu , Fang Hsiu-Yu , Fang Yen-Nan , Chen Huang-Chung , Lin Yu-Sheng , Chang Shang-Hung , Chen Mien-Cheng
Published: January 2023

Background

Impaired renal function is frequently observed in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). The differential effect of sacubitril/valsartan and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin-receptor blockers (ACEIs/ARBs) on the clinical and renal outcomes in patients with HFrEF and chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains unknown.

Aims

This study aimed to explore the differential effect of sacubitril/valsartan and ACEI/ARB on the clinical and renal outcomes as well as renal function over a 12-month follow-up period in HFrEF patients with and without CKD.

Methods

Patients with HfrEF (LVEF ≤35%) and NYHA class ≥II were enrolled from the Chang Gung Research Database between 2017 and 2020. Baseline characteristics were compared between patients prescribed sacubitril/valsartan and ACEI/ARB. After propensity score matching, the following clinical and renal outcomes were compared between the two groups in patients with and without CKD over a 12-month follow-up period: acute kidney injury (AKI), emergent dialysis/renal death, HF hospitalization, cardiovascular mortality, and all-cause mortality.

Results

This study enrolled 3735 HFrEF patients with a mean left ventricular EF of 27.56 ± 5.86%, who had been prescribed sacubitril/valsartan (N = 1708) or ACEI/ARB (N = 2027). After propensity score matching, the clinical and renal outcomes did not differ between the sacubitril/valsartan and ACEI/ARB groups in patients without CKD. In patients with CKD, the ACEI/ARB group had a significantly higher incidence of all-cause mortality than the sacubitril/valsartan group (14.89% vs. 10.50%; hazard ratio 1.46; 95% confidence interval 1.06–2.00; p = 0.02), and the incidence of AKI, HF hospitalization, and CV mortality did not differ between the two groups.

Conclusions

Sacubitril/valsartan had a lower all-cause mortality compared to ACEI/ARB in symptomatic HFrEF patients with CKD. Further prospective randomized studies are warranted to confirm our findings.
Research-ready data: the C-Surv data model
Authors: Bauermeister Sarah , Bauermeister Joshua R , Bridgman Ruth , Felici Caterina , Newbury Mark , North Laura , Orton Christopher , Squires Emma , Thompson Simon , Young Simon , Gallacher John E
Published: January 2023

Research-ready data (data curated to a defined standard) increase scientific opportunity and rigour by integrating the data environment. The development of research platforms has highlighted the value of research-ready data, particularly for multi-cohort analyses. Following stakeholder consultation, a standard data model (C-Surv) optimised for data discovery, was developed using data from 5 population and clinical cohort studies. The model uses a four-tier nested structure based on 18 data themes selected according to user behaviour or technology. Standard variable naming conventions are applied to uniquely identify variables within the context of longitudinal studies. The data model was used to develop a harmonised dataset for 11 cohorts. This dataset populated the Cohort Explorer data discovery tool for assessing the feasibility of an analysis prior to making a data access request. Data preparation times were compared between cohort specific data models and C-Surv.

It was concluded that adopting a common data model as a data standard for the discovery and analysis of research cohort data offers multiple benefits.
Suicide and other causes of death among Chernobyl cleanup workers from Estonia, 1986 − 2020: an update
Authors: Rahu Kaja , Rahu Mati , Zeeb Hajo , Auvinen Anssi , Bromet Evelyn , Boice John D.
Published: January 2023

Mortality was studied in a cohort of 4831 men from Estonia who participated in the environmental cleanup of the radioactively contaminated areas around Chernobyl in 1986–1991. Their mortality in 1986–2020 was compared with the mortality in the Estonian male population. A total of 1503 deaths were registered among the 4812 traced men. The all-cause standardized mortality ratio (SMR) was 1.04 (95% CI 0.99–1.09). All-cancer mortality was elevated (SMR 1.16, 95% CI 1.03–1.28). Radiation-related cancers were in excess (SMR 1.20, 95% CI 1.03–1.36); however, the excesses could be attributed to tobacco and alcohol consumption. For smoking-related cancers, the SMR was 1.20 (95% CI 1.06–1.35) and for alcohol-related cancers the SMR was 1.56 (95% CI 1.26–1.86). Adjusted relative risks (ARR) of all-cause mortality were increased among workers who stayed in the Chernobyl area ≥ 92 days (ARR 1.20, 95% CI 1.08–1.34), were of non-Estonian ethnicity (ARR 1.33, 95% CI 1.19–1.47) or had lower (basic or less) education (ARR 1.63, 95% CI 1.45–1.83). Suicide mortality was increased (SMR 1.31, 95% CI 1.05–1.56), most notably among men with lower education (ARR 2.24, 95% CI 1.42–3.53). Our findings provide additional evidence that unhealthy behaviors such as alcohol and smoking play an important role in shaping cancer mortality patterns among Estonian Chernobyl cleanup workers. The excess number of suicides suggests long-term psychiatric and substance use problems tied to Chernobyl-related stressors, i.e., the psychosocial impact was greater than any direct carcinogenic effect of low-dose radiation.
Utilization of standardized preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) via artificial intelligence (AI) technology is correlated with improved pregnancy outcomes in single thawed euploid embryo transfer (STEET) cycles
Authors: Buldo-Licciardi Julia , Large Michael J. , McCulloh David H. , McCaffrey Caroline , Grifo James A.
Published: January 2023

Purpose

To investigate the role of standardized preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) using artificial intelligence (AI) in patients undergoing single thawed euploid embryo transfer (STEET) cycles.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study at a single, large university-based fertility center with patients undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) utilizing PGT-A from February 2015 to April 2020. Controls included embryos tested using subjective NGS. The first experimental group included embryos analyzed by NGS utilizing AI and machine learning (PGTaiSM Technology Platform, AI 1.0). The second group included embryos analyzed by AI 1.0 and SNP analysis (PGTai2.0, AI 2.0). Primary outcomes included rates of euploidy, aneuploidy and simple mosaicism. Secondary outcomes included rates of implantation (IR), clinical pregnancy (CPR), biochemical pregnancy (BPR), spontaneous abortion (SABR) and ongoing pregnancy and/or live birth (OP/LBR).

Results

A total of 24,908 embryos were analyzed, and classification rates using AI platforms were compared to subjective NGS. Overall, those tested via AI 1.0 showed a significantly increased euploidy rate (36.6% vs. 28.9%), decreased simple mosaicism rate (11.3% vs. 14.0%) and decreased aneuploidy rate (52.1% vs. 57.0%). Overall, those tested via AI 2.0 showed a significantly increased euploidy rate (35.0% vs. 28.9%) and decreased simple mosaicism rate (10.1% vs. 14.0%). Aneuploidy rate was insignificantly decreased when comparing AI 2.0 to NGS (54.8% vs. 57.0%). A total of 1,174 euploid embryos were transferred. The OP/LBR was significantly higher in the AI 2.0 group (70.3% vs. 61.7%). The BPR was significantly lower in the AI 2.0 group (4.6% vs. 11.8%).

Conclusion

Standardized PGT-A via AI significantly increases euploidy classification rates and OP/LBR, and decreases BPR when compared to standard NGS.
Anomalous grain growth in sintered Bi2Ca2Co2−xCuxOy + Ag ceramic composites by Cu doping
Authors: Amaveda H. , Madre M. A. , Mora M. , Torres M. A. , Sotelo A.
Published: January 2023

Bi2Ca2Co2 − xCuxOy + 4 wt%Ag (with x between 0 and 0.20) thermoelectric materials were prepared through a sol-gel method via nitrates. Powder XRD patterns showed the presence of thermoelectric phase as the major one, accompanied by metallic silver. SEM observations identified three different secondary phases in the samples, together with an exaggerated grain growth with Cu doping. The microstructural modifications are reflected in an important decrease of electrical resistivity, ∼ 3% when compared to undoped samples, due to the reduction on the number of grain boundaries, and the increase of Co4+ in the conducting layer. The minimum values at 650 ºC were obtained in 0.10 Cu-doped samples, 69 mΩ cm, which are lower than the reported in sintered samples. On the other hand, Seebeck coefficient was only slightly affected and reached the highest values at 650 ºC in 0.15 Cu-doped samples, 215 µV/K, which is practically the same measured in undoped ones, 211 µV/K, and lower than those reported for sintered samples. Consequently, the highest PF at 650 ºC has been determined in 0.10 Cu-doped samples, which is around 50% higher than the obtained in samples prepared through the classical solid-state method, or the undoped ones prepared in this work.
New York State’s Paid Family Leave Program is Associated with More Equitable and Increased Use of Paid Leave Following Childbirth
Authors: Nguyen Trang , Dennison Barbara A. , Radigan Anne , FitzPatrick Eileen , Zhang Wei , Ncube Butho
Published: January 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to assess changes in paid maternity leave before and after New York’s (NY) Paid Family Leave (PFL) law went into effect (1/1/2018) and changes in disparities by maternal characteristics.

Methods

We used specific data collected on maternity leaves by women who gave birth in 2016–2018 in NY State (outside NY City) participating in the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System survey. Multiple logistic regressions were conducted to evaluate the effect of the PFL law on prevalence of paid leave taken by women after childbirth.

Results

After NY’s PFL law went into effect, there was a 26% relative increase in women taking paid leave after childbirth. Use of paid leave after childbirth increased among all racial and ethnic groups. The increases were greater among Black non-Hispanic or other race non-Hispanic women, compared to white non-Hispanic women, suggesting that NY’s law was associated with more equitable use of paid leave following childbirth.

Conclusions for Practice

Wider implementation and greater utilization of paid maternity leave policies would promote health equity and help reduce racial/ethnic disparities in maternal and child health outcomes.
Management accounting and new product development: a systematic literature review and future research directions
Authors: Magnacca Fabio , Giannetti Riccardo
Published: January 2023

This paper systematically reviews the existing literature at the crossroads of management accounting and new product development. At present, the accumulated knowledge on this topic is fragmented. Different research settings, diverse research focuses, and the use of different research methods are amongst the main reasons for the existing fragmentation and lack of an overall, conceptually coherent view of the knowledge gained on the management accounting phenomenon in new product development environments. As a response to the current knowledge fragmentation, the purpose of this paper is to consolidate existing evidence, provide an overview of the literature’s state-of-the-art, and propose paths for its future development. As a result of the systematisation attempt, this paper recognises the threefold identity of management accounting research in new product development and proposes a conceptual framework that collocates existing contributions along a research spectrum that gradually shifts the focus from the more technical-oriented aspects of management accounting to the more sociological-oriented aspects. Accordingly, this paper identifies the following research paths and systematise their relative contributions: (1) management accounting techniques and calculations; (2) management accounting information types and roles; (3) management accountants’ involvement and roles in new product development environments. Besides allowing the systematisation of previous investigations, this paper’s three research avenues provide a ‘lighthouse’ to those who, in future, aim to contribute to the current debate and knowledge creation at the intersection of management accounting and new product development. In this regard, the final part of the paper advances nine research propositions that emanate from the literature review and outlines a research agenda with directions for future research.
Un poema europeo en el romanticismo español: El bulto vestido del negro capuz (1835) de Patricio de la Escosura
Authors: Gutiérrez Sebastián Raquel
Published: January 2023

The article studies the narrative poem by Patricio de la Escosura El bulto vestido del negro capuz (1835), relating it to the European romantic literature of his time, which the author knew well from his stays as an emigrant in France. The work analyzes the themes and the form of a composition that is always cited but scarcely studied by contemporary and current critics. The analysis shows the connection of themes, motives and resources between this work and various productions by authors such as Byron, Schiller, Hugo and Vigni.
Improved indoor visible light positioning system using machine learning
Authors: Abdalmajeed Ahmed M. M. , Mahmoud Mohamed , El-Fikky Abd El-Rahman A. , Fayed Heba A. , Aly Moustafa H.
Published: January 2023

In this study, we present a novel Visible Light Positioning (VLP) method to reduce the localization error in an indoor environment. Machine Learning (ML) methods including Decision Tree (DT), Support Vector Machine (SVM), and Neural Networks (NNs) are used in combination with the LED Received Signal Strength (RSS) and the angle of a steerable laser. Zemax optics studio simulator is used to build a real indoor scene. Orange data mining software is utilized to apply ML techniques. Our numerical findings show that the suggested system outperforms the other RSS Visible Light Communication (VLC)-based models by reducing the localization error by more than 90% in some areas.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Enhanced optical and thermal conductivity properties of barium titanate ceramic via strontium doping for thermo-optical applications
Authors: Tihtih Mohammed , Ibrahim Jamal Eldin F. M. , Basyooni Mohamed A. , En-nadir Redouane , Belaid Walid , Abdelfattah Mohamed M. , Hussainova Irina , Pszota Gábor , Kocserha István
Published: January 2023

In this study, we prepared a homogeneous fine powder of barium titanate (BaTiO3, BT) doped with different concentrations of strontium (x = 0, 0.05, 0.125, 0.15, 0.20, and 0.3) and having the composition Ba1-xSrxTiO3 (barium strontium titanate, BSrxT). XRD patterns and Rietveld refinement revealed the existence of a single tetragonal phase structure for BSrxT, x = 0–20%, and a single cubic structure for BSr30%T. The physical properties of the pure and doped mixtures were studied. The results showed that the addition of strontium to the physical properties of BaTiO3, including the apparent porosity, bulk density, linear shrinkage, and water absorption have been changed when increasing the Sr content. Moreover, the inclusion of 15% Sr in BaTiO3 increases the apparent porosity and water absorption of the sample to 6.2 and 28.5%, respectively. The optical properties were investigated by Ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy and it was found that the optical band gap decreases significantly with increasing Sr concentration, from 3.10 for pure BaTiO3 to 2.46 eV for the BSr30%T compound. The thermal conductivity measurements showed that the doping mechanism and the increased temperature have a significant effect on the thermal conductivity results of the fabricated ceramic materials. Therefore, it was found that the value of thermal conductivity increases with increasing Sr doping and at higher temperatures. A correlated behavior of optimum values is observed in band gap energy, absorption, and thermal conductivity which can be exploited for thermo-optical applications.
What is important to adults after lower limb reconstruction surgery: a conceptual framework
Authors: Leggett Heather , Scantlebury Arabella , Hewitt Catherine , Sharma Hemant , McDaid Catriona ,   The PROLLIT Study Collaborators, Adamson Joy , Cocks Kim , Harwood Paul , Ferguson David , Hamdy Reggie , Ferreira Nando
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are used to understand the impact of lower limb reconstruction on patient’s Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQL). Existing measures have not involved this group of patients and their experiences during development. This study aimed to develop a conceptual framework to reflect what is important to patients requiring, undergoing or after undergoing reconstructive surgery.

Methods

Our population of interest was people requiring, undergoing or after undergoing reconstructive surgery due to trauma, malunion, nonunion, infection or congenital issues treated by internal or external fixation. We undertook semi-structured interviews with patients and orthopaedic healthcare professionals (surgeons, methodologists and patient contributors) in England.

Results

Thirty-two patients and 22 orthopaedic healthcare professionals (surgeons, methodologists and patient contributors) were interviewed between November 2020 and June 2021. Eight domains from a previously developed preliminary conceptual framework were used as a framework around which to code the interviews using thematic analysis. Six domains important to patients (from the perspective of patients and orthopaedic healthcare professionals) were included in the final conceptual framework: pain, perception-of-self, work and finances, daily lifestyle and functioning, emotional well-being, and support. These findings, plus meetings with our advisory panel led to the refinement of the conceptual framework.

Conclusion

The first five domains relate to important outcomes for patients; they are all inter-related and their importance to patients changed throughout recovery. The final domain—support (from work, the hospital, physiotherapists and family/friends)—was vital to patients and lessened the negative impact of the other domains on their HRQL. These new data strengthen our original findings and our understanding of the domains we identified in the QES. The next step in this research is to ascertain whether current PROMs used with this group of patients adequately capture these areas of importance.
Ghosts and Punks: The Aesthetics of Copyright Law in Graphic Novels and Comics
Authors: Stockton-Brown Melanie
Published: January 2023

Graphic justice and the law of aesthetics have in very recent years successfully brought law, aesthetics and comics scholarship into the same space. The culture of copyright infringement within comics (including in the Marvel, DC, and Disney universes) has been extensively in the literature by scholars including Saval. How copyright law is portrayed within the graphic novels and comics themselves is the focus (and contribution of) this article. This article will explore several comics and graphic novels, as well as included this author’s reflections of portraying copyright visually within zines for public dissemination. Throughout this article, the discourses of ghosts and spectres that are interwoven with copyright law and haunt the texts will be seen, as will the discourses of oppression and warfare that are involved for anyone seeking to make use of copyright works. As Gómez Romero and Dahlman note, comics offer “an alternative legal discourse” and we can see these alternative legal discourses through their aesthetic graphic form. This article will consider: the aesthetic portrayal of copyright law in A Gift for a Ghost and Josie and the Pussycats No. 6; as well as Bound by Law, Theft! A History of Music, and Pictures within Pictures. These comics and graphic novels have been chosen as they aesthetically portray copyright law and copyright infringement (referred to in some of the comics as “plagiarism”), and others aesthetically portray the public domain and fair use. In viewing these aesthetic manifestation of copyright law, the reader understands the limiting nature of copyright on creative freedoms, and that copyright law’s power is absolute. This article will explore the following: (i) copyright’s aesthetic portrayals and the impact of this; (ii) comics haunted by copyright law, considering A Gift for A Ghost and Josie and the Pussycats; (iii) comics about the necessity of the public domain and fair use, considering Bound by Law, Theft! A History of Music, and Pictures within Pictures; and (iv) self-reflections on portraying copyright aesthetically in publicly disseminated research zines. This article has not set out to determine that certain visual aesthetic portrayals are “correct” or “better”, but rather to explore how legal discourses and narratives about copyright law are circulated through the comics medium. These visual depictions hold considerable weight, and it is striking to see similar narratives used across a range of comics works, with different intended audiences. What is clear is that the visual depiction of copyright law enables a greater ability to convey the multiple copyright law discourses that can be felt at once, and also to highlight that some of these discourses are contradictory to one another.
Particles, fields, and the ontology of the standard model
Authors: Benitez Federico
Published: January 2023

In this work we discuss issues of ontological commitment towards one of the most important examples of contemporary fundamental science: the standard model of particle physics. We present a new form of selective structural realism, which uses as its basis the distinction between what have been called framework and interaction theories. This allows us to advance the ongoing debate about the ontological status of (quasi-)particles and quantum fields, by emphasising the distinction between quantum field theory serving as a framework, and the standard model itself, which we argue is an interaction theory embedded within this framework. Following a discussion of what ontological commitments corresponds to each of these two classes, we argue that some of the previous proposals in the literature might have been misguided by the blending of quantum field theory and the standard model into an undifferentiated unity, and defend a moderate form of object realism with respect to particle-like entities.
Free-view Face Relighting Using a Hybrid Parametric Neural Model on a SMALL-OLAT Dataset
Authors: Wang Youjia , He Kai , Zhou Taotao , Yao Kaixin , Li Nianyi , Xu Lan , Yu Jingyi
Published: January 2023

The development of neural relighting techniques has by far outpaced the rate of their corresponding training data (e.g., OLAT) generation. For example, high-quality relighting from a single portrait image still requires supervision from comprehensive datasets covering broad diversities in gender, race, complexion, and facial geometry. We present a hybrid parametric neural relighting (PN-Relighting) framework for single portrait relighting, using a much smaller OLAT dataset or SMOLAT. At the core of PN-Relighting, we employ parametric 3D faces coupled with appearance inference and implicit material modelling to enrich SMOLAT for handling in-the-wild images. Specifically, we tailor an appearance inference module to generate detailed geometry and albedo on top of the parametric face and develop a neural rendering module to first construct an implicit material representation from SMOLAT and then conduct self-supervised training on in-the-wild image datasets. Comprehensive experiments show that PN-Relighting produces comparable high-quality relighting to TotalRelighting (Pandey et al., 2021), but with a smaller dataset. It further improves shape estimation and naturally supports free-viewpoint rendering and partial skin material editing. PN-Relighting also serves as a data augmenter to produce rich OLAT datasets beyond the original capture.
Genes encoding agrin (AGRN) and neurotrypsin (PRSS12) are associated with muscle mass, strength and plasma C-terminal agrin fragment concentration
Authors: Pratt Jedd , Whitton Laura , Ryan Anthony , Juliusdottir Thorhildur , Dolan Jackie , Conroy Judith , Narici Marco , De Vito Giuseppe , Boreham Colin
Published: January 2023

Although physiological data suggest that neuromuscular junction (NMJ) dysfunction is a principal mechanism underpinning sarcopenia, genetic studies have implicated few genes involved in NMJ function. Accordingly, we explored whether genes encoding agrin (AGRN) and neurotrypsin (PRSS12) were associated with sarcopenia phenotypes: muscle mass, strength and plasma C-terminal agrin fragment (CAF). PhenoScanner was used to determine if AGRN and/or PRSS12 variants had previously been implicated with sarcopenia phenotypes. For replication, we combined genotype from whole genome sequencing with phenotypic data from 6715 GenoFit participants aged 18–83 years. Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry assessed whole body lean mass (WBLM) and appendicular lean mass (ALM), hand dynamometry determined grip strength and ELISA measured plasma CAF in a subgroup (n = 260). Follow-up analyses included eQTL analyses, carrier analyses, single-variant and gene-burden tests. rs2710873 (AGRN) and rs71608359 (PRSS12) associate with muscle mass and strength phenotypes, respectively, in the UKBB (p = 8.9 × 10−6 and p = 8.4 × 10−6) and GenoFit cohort (p = 0.019 and p = 0.014). rs2710873 and rs71608359 are eQTLs for AGRN and PRSS12, respectively, in ≥ three tissues. Compared to non-carriers, carriers of rs2710873 had 4.0% higher WBLM and ALM (both p < 0.001), and 9.5% lower CAF concentrations (p < 0.001), while carriers of rs71608359 had 2.3% lower grip strength (p = 0.034). AGRN and PRSS12 are associated with muscle strength and mass in single-variant analyses, while PRSS12 has further associations with muscle strength in gene-burden tests. Our findings provide novel evidence of the relevance of AGRN and PRSS12 to sarcopenia phenotypes and support existing physiological data illustrating the importance of the NMJ in maintaining muscle health during ageing.
Fixturing technology and system for thin-walled parts machining: a review
Authors: Liu Haibo , Wang Chengxin , Li Te , Bo Qile , Liu Kuo , Wang Yongqing
Published: January 2023

During the overall processing of thin-walled parts (TWPs), the guaranteed capability of the machining process and quality is determined by fixtures. Therefore, reliable fixtures suitable for the structure and machining process of TWP are essential. In this review, the key role of fixtures in the manufacturing system is initially discussed. The main problems in machining and workholding due to the characteristics of TWP are then analyzed in detail. Afterward, the definition of TWP fixtures is reinterpreted from narrow and broad perspectives. Fixture functions corresponding to the issues of machining and workholding are then clearly stated. Fixture categories are classified systematically according to previous research achievements, and the operation mode, functional characteristics, and structure of each fixture are comprehensively described. The function and execution mode of TWP fixtures are then systematically summarized and analyzed, and the functions of various TWP fixtures are evaluated. Some directions for future research on TWP fixtures technology are also proposed. The main purpose of this review is to provide some reference and guidance for scholars to examine TWP fixtures.
Application of deep learning-based super-resolution to T1-weighted postcontrast gradient echo imaging of the chest
Authors: Maennlin Simon , Wessling Daniel , Herrmann Judith , Almansour Haidara , Nickel Dominik , Kannengiesser Stephan , Afat Saif , Gassenmaier Sebastian
Published: January 2023

Objectives

A deep learning-based super-resolution for postcontrast volume-interpolated breath-hold examination (VIBE) of the chest was investigated in this study. Aim was to improve image quality, noise, artifacts and diagnostic confidence without change of acquisition parameters.

Materials and methods

Fifty patients who received VIBE postcontrast imaging of the chest at 1.5 T were included in this retrospective study. After acquisition of the standard VIBE (VIBES), a novel deep learning-based algorithm and a denoising algorithm were applied, resulting in enhanced images (VIBEDL). Two radiologists qualitatively evaluated both datasets independently, rating sharpness of soft tissue, vessels, bronchial structures, lymph nodes, artifacts, cardiac motion artifacts, noise levels and overall diagnostic confidence, using a Likert scale ranging from 1 to 4. In the presence of lung lesions, the largest lesion was rated regarding sharpness and diagnostic confidence using the same Likert scale as mentioned above. Additionally, the largest diameter of the lesion was measured.

Results

The sharpness of soft tissue, vessels, bronchial structures and lymph nodes as well as the diagnostic confidence, the extent of artifacts, the extent of cardiac motion artifacts and noise levels were rated superior in VIBEDL(allP < 0.001).

There was no significant difference in the diameter or the localization of the largest lung lesion in VIBEDLcompared to VIBES. Lesion sharpness as well as detectability was rated significantly better by both readers with VIBEDL(bothP < 0.001).

Conclusion

The application of a novel deep learning-based super-resolution approach in T1-weighted VIBE postcontrast imaging resulted in an improvement in image quality, noise levels and diagnostic confidence as well as in a shortened acquisition time.
Dynamic Movement Primitives Based Robot Skills Learning
Authors: Kong Ling-Huan , He Wei , Chen Wen-Shi , Zhang Hui , Wang Yao-Nan
Published: January 2023

In this article, a robot skills learning framework is developed, which considers both motion modeling and execution. In order to enable the robot to learn skills from demonstrations, a learning method called dynamic movement primitives (DMPs) is introduced to model motion. A staged teaching strategy is integrated into DMPs frameworks to enhance the generality such that the complicated tasks can be also performed for multi-joint manipulators. The DMP connection method is used to make an accurate and smooth transition in position and velocity space to connect complex motion sequences. In addition, motions are categorized into different goals and durations. It is worth mentioning that an adaptive neural networks (NNs) control method is proposed to achieve highly accurate trajectory tracking and to ensure the performance of action execution, which is beneficial to the improvement of reliability of the skills learning system. The experiment test on the Baxter robot verifies the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells Reversed Ovarian Aging-related m6A RNA Methylation Modification Profile in Aged Granulosa Cells
Authors: Tian Chuan , An Yuanyuan , Zhao Jing , Zhu Xiangqing , Wei Wei , Ruan Guangping , Li Ye , Pan Xinghua
Published: January 2023

Background

Ovarian ageing causes endocrine disturbances and the degeneration of systemic tissue and organ functions to seriously affect women's physical and mental health, and effective treatment methods are urgently needed. Based on our previous studies using juvenile rhesus monkey bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) to treat ovarian ageing in rhesus monkey, we found that BMMSCs improved ovarian structure and function. This study continues to explore the mechanism by which BMMSCs reversed granulosa cell (GC) ageing.

Methods

A GC ageing model and coculture system of BMMSCs were established, changes in the level of the N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation modification were detected, m6A-modified RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP-seq) were performed, correlations between m6A peaks and mRNA expression were determined, and the expression of hub genes was identified using Q-PCR, immunofluorescence staining, and western blot.

Results

Our results showed that H2O2 successfully induced GC ageing and that BMMSCs reversed measures of GC ageing. BMMSCs increased the expression of the FTO protein and reduced the overall level of m6A. We identified 797 m6A peaks (348 hypomethylated and 449 hypermethylated peaks) and 817 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) (412 upregulated and 405 downregulated) after aged GCs were cocultured with BMMSCs, which significantly associated with ovarian function and epigenetic modification. The epigenetic repressive mark and important cell cycle regulator lysine demethylase 8 (KDM8) was downregulated at both the mRNA and protein levels, histone H3 was upregulated in aged GCs after BMMSC coculture, and KDM8 was upregulated after FTO was inhibited through FB23.

Conclusions

Our study revealed an essential role for m6A in BMMSCs in reversing GC ageing, and FTO regulated KDM8 mediates histone H3 changes may as a novel regulatory mechanism in BMMSCs to reverse GC ageing.

Graphical Abstract
Asparaginyl endopeptidase contributes to cetuximab resistance via MEK/ERK signaling in RAS wide-type metastatic colorectal cancer
Authors: Xu Xiaojing , Liu Mengling , Peng Ke , Yu Yiyi , Liu Tianshu
Published: January 2023

Background

Cetuximab, a monoclonal antibody targeting epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), is effective for RAS wild-type metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients. However, cetuximab resistance often occur and the mechanism has not been fully elucidated. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of asparaginyl endopeptidase (AEP) in cetuximab resistance.

Methods

Differentially expressed genes between cetuximab responders and non-responders were identified by analyzing the gene expression profile GSE5851, retrieved from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). The potential genes were further validated in cetuximab-resistant CRC cell lines. The expression of AEP in the peripheral blood and tumor tissues of mCRC patients in our hospital were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and immunohistochemistry, respectively. The survival analysis was carried out by Kaplan–Meier method. The function and associated pathways of AEP were further investigated by lentivirus transfection, CCK8 assay, colony formation assay, real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and western blot.

Results

Through bioinformatics analysis, we found that the expression of AEP gene was related to progress free survival (PFS) of mCRC patients treated with cetuximab alone (P = 0.00133). The expression of AEP was significantly higher in the cetuximab-resistant CRC cell lines, as well as in mCRC patients with shorter PFS treated with cetuximab-containing therapy. Furthermore, AEP could decrease the sensitivity of CRC cells to cetuximab in vitro. And the phosphorylation level of MEK and ERK1/2 was increased in AEP overexpression cells. The downregulation of AEP using specific inhibitors could partially restore the sensitivity of CRC cells to cetuximab.

Conclusion

The higher expression of AEP could contribute to the shorter PFS of cetuximab treatment in mCRC. The reason might be that AEP could promote the phosphorylation of MEK/ERK protein in the downstream signal pathway of EGFR.
Oral health and mental health in healthy adults, a topic of primary prevention and health care, empirical results from two online studies
Authors: Herbert Cornelia
Published: January 2023

Oral health is an important, yet often neglected aspect of health and well-being. Among geriatric populations, oral diseases, poor oral health, and reduced oral hygiene behavior are major comorbid factors of geriatric diseases such as dementia, cardiovascular diseases, or mental health conditions. However, little is known so far about the relationships between oral health and mental health in the younger adult population, who is yet not suffering from any disorder. In the present manuscript the results of two online studies, online study 1, n = 133, all-female sample and online study 2: n = 29, mixed gender sample, are reported that investigate the relationship between self-reported oral health impairments and preclinical symptoms of mental disorders including self-reported symptoms associated with depression or eating disorders as well as self-reported perceived stress and behavior change related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The results of both studies support links between self-reported oral health impairments, self-reported depressive symptoms (including anxiety and current affect) and symptoms related to eating disorders (such as bulimic behavior, body dissatisfaction or drive for thinness) among young adults and suggest that perceived stress may contribute to both, impaired oral health and impaired mental health in young adults (women and men).
Neoadjuvant chemotherapy using nanoparticle albumin-bound paclitaxel plus trastuzumab and pertuzumab followed by epirubicin and cyclophosphamide for operable HER2-positive primary breast cancer: a multicenter phase II clinical trial (PerSeUS-BC04)
Authors: Futamura Manabu , Ishihara Kazuhiro , Nagao Yasuko , Ogiso Atsuko , Niwa Yoshimi , Nakada Takumi , Kawaguchi Yoshihiro , Ikawa Ai , Kumazawa Iwao , Mori Ryutaro , Kitazawa Mai , Hosono Yoshiki , Kuno Masashi , Kawajiri Mana , Nakakami Akira , Takeuchi Makoto , Morikawa Akemi , Tokumaru Yoshihisa , Katagiri Yasuo , Asano Yoshimasa , Mushika Yoshinori , Shimokawa Toshio , Matsuhasih Nobuhisa
Published: January 2023

Background

Nanoparticle albumin-bound paclitaxel (nab-PTX) is a promising antibody partner for anti-human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). We performed neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) for HER2-positive breast cancer (BC) using nab-PTX plus trastuzumab (T-mab) and pertuzumab (P-mab), followed by epirubicin and cyclophosphamide (EC).

Methods

In this multicenter phase II clinical trial (January 2019–July 2020), patients with stage I (T1c)-IIIB HER2-positive primary BC were treated with four cycles of nab-PTX plus T-mab and P-mab, followed by four cycles of EC. The primary endpoint was the pathological complete response (pCR) rate. Secondary endpoints were clinical response rate (RR), adverse events (AE), and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in biopsy samples.

Results

In total, 43 patients were enrolled (mean age, 54 years). Twenty-two patients had HER2, and 21 patients had luminal/HER2-subtypes. The overall pCR rate was 53.5% (23/43, 95% CI: 42.6–64.1%, p = 0.184), whilst the pCR for HER2 was 68.2% (15/22, 95% CI: 45.1–86.1) and 38.1% for luminal/HER2 (8/21, 95% CI: 18.1–61.6%). The RR was 100% [clinical (c) CR:25, partial response (PR): 18]. AEs (≥ G3) included neutropenia (23.3%), leukopenia (7.0%), liver dysfunction (7.0%), and peripheral neuropathy (4.7%) when nab-PTX was administered. EC administration resulted in leukopenia (34.2%), neutropenia (31.6%), and febrile neutropenia (15.8%). The TILs in preoperative biopsy samples were significantly higher in pCR compared to non-pCR samples.

Conclusion

Nab-PTX plus T-mab and P-mab induced a high pCR rate in HER2-positive BC, particularly in the HER2-subtype. Given that AEs are acceptable, this regimen is safe and acceptable as NAC for HER2-positive BC.
Be Kind to Yourself: the Implications of Momentary Self-Compassion for Affective Dynamics and Well-Being in Daily Life
Authors: Mey Lara Kristin , Wenzel Mario , Morello Karolina , Rowland Zarah , Kubiak Thomas , Tüscher Oliver
Published: January 2023

Objectives

While self-compassion (SC) has mostly been understood as a stable trait-like property, growing evidence suggests that it may fluctuate over time within a given individual. However, little is known on how these fluctuations relate to affective well-being and affective dynamics, such as emotional inertia and stress reactivity in daily life.

Methods

A sample of 119 non-clinical individuals (mean age: 31.3 years, 53.8% female) completed a 7-day smartphone-based ecological momentary assessment study with six semi-random signals per day. With each signal, individuals reported their momentary positive affect (PA) and negative affect (NA), recent SC, and occurrence and perceived strain of daily hassles since the last signal.

Results

Whenever individuals reported higher recent SC than usual, they experienced higher momentary PA and lower momentary NA. Moreover, higher recent SC related to lower stress reactivity in terms of lower decrease of PA and lower increase of NA following the experience of daily hassles. No associations between SC and emotional inertia were found. When distinguishing between the positive components (SC-Pos) and negative components (SC-Neg) of SC, SC-Neg (compared to SC-Pos) was more strongly connected to NA, while SC-Pos and SC-Neg were similarly connected to PA. SC-Pos was associated with an attenuated NA stress reactivity, and SC-Neg with an increased NA stress reactivity. SC-Pos and SC-Neg did not significantly moderate PA stress reactivity nor emotional inertia.

Conclusions

Results show that the benefits of SC for well-being and stress reactivity may unfold whenever we treat ourselves with compassion, irrespective of how self-compassionate we are in general.
The impact of postmastectomy radiotherapy on cT1-2N1 breast cancer patients with ypN0 after neoadjuvant chemotherapy: a retrospective study based on real-world data
Authors: Dai Yuran , Ma Shishi , Lan Ailin , Wang Yihua , Wang Yu , Jin Yudi , Ding Nan , Jiang Linshan , Tang Zhenrong , Yin Xuedong , Peng Yang , Liu Shengchun
Published: January 2023

Background

The role of postmastectomy radiation therapy (PMRT) in clinical T1-2N1 breast cancer patients who achieve axillary pathological complete response (ypN0) after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) is controversial.

Methods

Data from cT1-2N1 breast cancer patients who converted to ypN0 after NAC and subsequent surgery were retrospectively analyzed. Disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were estimated using the Kaplan‒Meier method. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression models were applied to investigate the correlations between clinical or pathological parameters and survival.

Results

From 2012–2019, we identified 116 cases for analysis, including 31 (26.7%) who received PMRT and 85 (73.3%) who did not. At a median follow-up time of 56.4 months, the 5-year DFS and OS rates were 90.2% and 96.7% with PMRT and 93.7% and 97.3% without PMRT, respectively. PMRT did not affect either DFS (p = 0.234) or OS (p = 0.878). On multivariate analyses, no differences in DFS or OS between the two groups were detected, taking into consideration the following factors: age, molecular subtype, Ki67 index, cT stage, and in-breast pathologic complete response (DFS: HR 2.260; 95% CI 0.465–10.982; p = 0.312. OS: HR 1.400; 95% CI 0.138–14.202; p = 0.776). This nonsignificant difference was also consistent in subgroup analyses (all p > 0.05).

Conclusions

PMRT has limited ability to confer DFS or OS benefits for cT1-2N1 breast cancer patients who achieved axillary pathological complete response after NAC and total mastectomy. It is imperative to conduct prospective studies to investigate the safety and feasibility of omitting PMRT.

Trial registration: This research was approved by the Ethics Committee of The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University (ID: No. 2021–442).
Understanding the phenotypic spectrum and family experiences of XYY syndrome: Important considerations for genetic counseling
Authors: Jodarski Colleen , Duncan Rylee , Torres Erin , Gore Rachel , Raznahan Armin , Similuk Morgan
Published: January 2023

XYY syndrome is characterized by a variable neurodevelopmental phenotype, with features including developmental delays, cognitive impairments, and an increased risk for mental health conditions. There are two recent developments that have primarily motivated this review. The first is the increased use of non-invasive prenatal screening (NIPS), which will likely result in more individuals being diagnosed with XYY prenatally. As such, health care providers (HCPs) both within genetics and outside of the specialty are more likely to encounter this diagnosis in the future. The second is advances in the understanding of the phenotypic variability of XYY through biobank and deep phenotyping efforts. As the phenotypic spectrum of XYY syndrome continues to expand, families will face greater uncertainty when receiving this diagnosis. Given both of these developments, HCPs will need to have up-to-date and accurate information about XYY to better counsel families. Furthermore, the ability to employ effective counseling techniques, such as anticipatory guidance, will aid in supporting and guiding families through the diagnostic journey. This review aims to provide insight on the neurodevelopmental and psychosocial aspects of XYY syndrome by discussing current research and borrowing from the relevant psychosocial literature of other genetic conditions. In this way, we hope to equip HCPs with the ultimate goal of improving the care and support provided to individuals with XYY and their families.
Development of inundation maps along East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia due to predicted seaquake from Manila Trench
Authors: Aziz Afif Fitri , Mardi Nurul Hani , Abdul Malek Marlinda , Teh Su Yean , Wil Mohd Azwan , Shuja Abd Halim , Ahmed Ali Najah , Kumar Pavitra , Sherif Mohsen , Elshafie Ahmed
Published: January 2023

Coastal zone has high value of socioeconomic activities. The number of developments and activities at the coastal areas of various sectors has increased day by day. Tsunami hazard is classified as one of the most devastating natural disasters that cause destruction along the coastal areas resulted to human fatalities. There are many causes of tsunami, but the most common is due to earthquake in the ocean. Previously recognised as a safe zone from natural disasters of tsunami, Malaysia was confronted by a rude awakening of the 2004 Andaman tsunami, causing a total loss of 68 lives. However, the potential impacts of tsunamis towards Malaysia coastal areas, especially at East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, have not been explored extensively. This study, therefore, is critical and pertinent. It aims to investigate the potential seismic activities that generate tsunami occurrences affecting East Coast Peninsular Malaysia. This study further simulates Manila Trench earthquake-induced tsunami at various earthquake intensities, namely Mw 7.0, 8.0 and 9.0, by using TUNA model. Results obtained from this study indicated that tsunami wave generated by Manila Trench earthquake at Mw 9.0 resulted to the highest disastrous effects towards East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Findings from this study have established that Kelantan will experience the highest inundation depth at 4.0 m in Pasir Puteh with the highest inland inundation distance at 5.5 km in Bachok. Besides that, Terengganu will experience the highest inundation depth at 6.0 m in Kuala Terengganu with the highest inland inundation distance at 6.0 km also in Kuala Terengganu. In Pahang, the highest inundation depth at 4.5 m with the highest inland inundation distance at 3.3 km is anticipated to experience in Pekan, while in Johor, the highest inundation depth at 1.2 m with the highest inland inundation distance at 0.4 km is anticipated to experience in Mersing. On the other hand, Mw 8.0 and 7.0 earthquake was expected to be insignificant upon arriving at the coastal areas. Mitigation measures and evacuation plans can be effectively planned as findings obtained from this study are able to provide vital information on the possibilities of tsunami waves occurrences to overcome massive losses of properties and life.