bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reconstruction of nasal airway in patients of class IIId maxillary defect with vastus lateralis muscle-chimeric double skin paddle ALT flap
Authors: Hsu Shao-Yun , Morrison Shane D. , Yildirim Mehmet Emin Cem , Shih Pin-Keng
Published: December 2022

Background

A reconstructive challenge in patients with class IIId maxillary defect is how to obliterate the defect and restore a patent nasal airway. The current strategy using the single anterolateral thigh (ALT) fasciocutaneous flap for reconstruction may result in permanent mouth breathing. As the ALT flap was a common option in reconstruction processes, this study aimed to evaluate the benefits of vastus lateralis (VL) muscle-chimeric double skin paddle ALT flap in simultaneous defect and nasal airway reconstruction.

Methods

This study included 21 patients with class IIId maxillary defect who underwent free ALT flap reconstruction (n = 11, single ALT flap group; n = 10, VL muscle-chimeric double skin paddle ALT flap (chimeric ALT flap) group) at the China Medical University Hospital from August 2015 to September 2019. Associated parameters collected for analysis included gender, age, body mass index (BMI), operative time, hospitalization, clinical stage, preoperative treatment, flap/defect size, comorbidities, postoperative RT, mouth breathing and short/long term complications.

Results

No significant differences were observed in age, BMI, hospitalization, clinical stage, preoperative treatment, defect size, comorbidities, and postoperative RT between the two groups; however, the chimeric ALT flap group as dominated by male patients (p = 0.009), and had longer operative times (12.1 h vs. 10.1 h, p = 0.002) and larger flap sizes (180 cm2vs. 96.7 cm2, p = 0.013). Compared with the chimeric ALT flap group, the single ALT flap group suffered from permanent mouth breathing.

Conclusion

Nasal airway reconstruction should be considered in patients with class IIId maxillary defect. Compared to the single ALT flap, the chimeric ALT flap is a superior reconstructive option for patients with class IIId maxillary defect, although a longer surgical duration and larger flap size are required.
Investigation of factors related to the behavior of reporting clinical errors in nurses working in educational and medical centers in Rasht city, Iran
Authors: Abry Somayeh , Mehrabian Fardin , Omidi Saeed , Karimy Mahmood , Kasmaei Parisa , Haryalchi Katayoun
Published: December 2022

Background

Report of medical error is one of the effective components in the quality of healthcare services. A significant part of medical errors can be prevented by acting appropriately. The theory of planned behavior offers a framework in which the nurse intention to perform the behavior of error reporting is investigated. This study was conducted to determine the factors related to the behavior of reporting clinical errors in nurses working in educational and medical centers in Rasht based on the theory of planned behavior in 2020.

Methods

In this descriptive-analytical study, 326 nurses in all medical centers in Rasht were selected by the multi-stage random sampling method. Data collection tool was a valid and reliable questionnaire based on the theory of planned behavior. Data analysis was conducted using the SPSS software, analysis of variance, correlation, and linear regression.

Results

39% of nurses reported that they had reported a medical error, and the average number of error reports per nurse during the last 3 months was 1.42 errors. The predictive power of the theory of behavioral intention was 47%, and predictive constructs were attitude (B = .43), perceived behavioral control (B = .33), and subjective norm (B = .04) using linear regression. The predictive power of the theory for nurses' behavior was 3.1%. None of the demographic variables played a role in predicting the behavior of nurses' reporting clinical error, and no behavioral intention predicted the behavior of nurses' reporting clinical errors.

Conclusion

The theory of planned behavior expresses the factors affecting the behavior intention of nurses' reporting clinical errors satisfactorily. However, it was an inappropriate theory in behavior prediction. It appears that factors, such as fear of consequences of error reporting, social pressures by colleagues and officials, and lack of knowledge and skills required to identify medical errors, are the barriers to conversion of intention to the behavior of reporting clinical errors. It is necessary to provide the ground to increase nurses' report of clinical errors by acting appropriately.
An IGF1-expressing endometrial stromal cell population is associated with human decidualization
Authors: Shi Jia-Wei , Lai Zhen-Zhen , Yang Hui-Li , Zhou Wen-Jie , Zhao Xiao-Ya , Xie Feng , Liu Song-Ping , Chen Wei-Dong , Zhang Tao , Ye Jiang-Feng , Zhou Xiang-Yu , Li Ming-Qing
Published: December 2022

Background

Decidualization refers to the process of transformation of endometrial stromal fibroblast cells into specialized decidual stromal cells that provide a nutritive and immunoprivileged matrix essential for blastocyst implantation and placental development. Deficiencies in decidualization are associated with a variety of pregnancy disorders, including female infertility, recurrent implantation failure (RIF), and miscarriages. Despite the increasing number of genes reportedly associated with endometrial receptivity and decidualization, the cellular and molecular mechanisms triggering and underlying decidualization remain largely unknown. Here, we analyze single-cell transcriptional profiles of endometrial cells during the window of implantation and decidual cells of early pregnancy, to gains insights on the process of decidualization.

Results

We observed a unique IGF1+ stromal cell that may initiate decidualization by single-cell RNA sequencing. We found the IL1B+ stromal cells promote gland degeneration and decidua hemostasis. We defined a subset of NK cells for accelerating decidualization and extravillous trophoblast (EVT) invasion by AREG-IGF1 and AREG-CSF1 regulatory axe. Further analysis indicates that EVT promote decidualization possibly by multiply pathways. Additionally, a systematic repository of cell–cell communication for decidualization was developed. An aberrant ratio conversion of IGF1+ stromal cells to IGF1R+ stromal cells is observed in unexplained RIF patients.

Conclusions

Overall, a unique subpopulation of IGF1+ stromal cell is involved in initiating decidualization. Our observations provide deeper insights into the molecular and cellular characterizations of decidualization, and a platform for further development of evaluation of decidualization degree and treatment for decidualization disorder-related diseases.
A novel 450-nm laser-mediated sinoporphyrin sodium-based photodynamic therapy induces autophagic cell death in gastric cancer through regulation of the ROS/PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Li Xing , Gu Lijiang , Chen Yuhang , Wang Xiaobing , Mei Yibo , Zhou Jinlai , Ma Minghai , Ma Jianbin , Chong Yue , Wang Xinyang , Guo Peng , He Dalin , Zeng Jin
Published: December 2022

Background

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has become an ideal and promising therapeutic method for fighting cancer, but its common application in clinical practice is prevented by the limitations of expensive devices in light sources and phototoxicity in photosensitizers. The aim of this study was to explore the antitumor efficiency of the novel 450-nm blue laser (BL) combined with sinoporphyrin sodium (DVDMS)-mediated PDT against human gastric cancer (GC) in vitro and in vivo, focusing on autophagy pathway.

Methods

Cell viability was detected by Cell Counting Kit-8 and colony formation assays in HGC27, MGC803, AGS, and GES-1 cells. Cell apoptosis was measured by flow cytometry and western blotting. The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was measured by fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry. Autophagy was determined by transmission electron microscopy and western blotting. The antitumor effect of BL-PDT in vivo was detected by a subcutaneous tumor model in nude mice.

Results

The novel 450-nm laser-mediated DVDMS-based PDT caused remarkable growth inhibition and apoptosis induction in GC cells in vitro by the production of excessive ROS. Autophagy flux was induced by BL-PDT in GC cells, as determined by LC3 conversion assay, LC3 turnover assay, and mRFP-GFP-LC3 puncta assay. Furthermore, autophagy induction was demonstrated to positively contribute to BL-PDT-induced apoptotic effects on GC cells. Mechanically, ROS/PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway was identified to involve in the regulation of BL-PDT-induced autophagy as determined by transcriptomic analysis and functional studies. Consistently, xenograft studies confirmed the significant antitumor effect of BL-PDT and its favorable safety in vivo.

Conclusions

The novel 450-nm laser-mediated DVDMS-based PDT may be a safe and effective approach against GC. Our results thus provide compelling evidence for the therapeutic application of BL-PDT in human GC.
Identifying novel proteins underlying schizophrenia via integrating pQTLs of the plasma, CSF, and brain with GWAS summary data
Authors: Gu Xiaojing , Dou Meng , Su Weiming , Jiang Zheng , Duan Qingqing , Cao Bei , Chen Yongping
Published: December 2022

Background

Schizophrenia (SCZ) is a chronic and severe mental illness with no cure so far. Mendelian randomization (MR) is a genetic method widely used to explore etiologies of complex traits. In the current study, we aimed to identify novel proteins underlying SCZ with a systematic analytical approach.

Methods

We integrated protein quantitative trait loci (pQTLs) of the brain, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and plasma with the latest and largest SCZ genome-wide association study (GWAS) via a systematic analytical framework, including two-sample MR analysis, Steiger filtering analysis, and Bayesian colocalization analysis.

Results

The genetically determined protein level of C4A/C4B (OR = 0.70, p = 1.66E−07) in the brain and ACP5 (OR = 0.42, p = 3.73E−05), CNTN2 (OR = 0.62, p = 2.57E−04), and PLA2G7 (OR = 0.71, p = 1.48E−04) in the CSF was associated with a lower risk of SCZ, while the genetically determined protein level of TIE1 (OR = 3.46, p = 4.76E−05), BCL6 (OR = 3.63, p = 1.59E−07), and MICB (OR = 4.49, p = 2.31E−11) in the CSF were associated with an increased risk for SCZ. Pathway enrichment analysis indicated that genetically determined proteins suggestively associated with SCZ were enriched in the biological process of the immune response.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we identified one protein in the brain and six proteins in the CSF that showed supporting evidence of being potentially associated with SCZ, which could provide insights into future mechanistic studies to find new treatments for the disease. Our results also supported the important role of neuroinflammation in the pathogenesis of SCZ.
Role of the occupational disease consultant in the multidisciplinary discussion of interstitial lung diseases
Authors: Carlier Ségolene , Nasser Mouhamad , Fort Emmanuel , Lamouroux Céline , Si-Mohamed Salim , Chalabreysse Lara , Maury Jean-Michel , Diesler Rémi , Cottin Vincent , Charbotel Barbara
Published: December 2022

Background

Diffuse interstitial lung diseases (ILD) constitute a heterogeneous group of conditions with complex etiological diagnoses requiring a multidisciplinary approach. Much is still unknown about them, particularly their relationship with occupational exposures. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the distribution of occupational exposures according to type of ILD. The secondary objectives were to estimate the proportion of ILDs possibly related to occupational exposure and to evaluate the added value of the participation of an occupational disease consultant in ILD multidisciplinary discussions (MDD).

Methods

From May to December 2020, all consecutive patients with ILD whose cases were reviewed during a MDD in a referral centre for ILD were prospectively offered a consultation with an occupational disease consultant.

Results

Of the 156 patients with ILD whose cases were reviewed in MDD during the study period, 141 patients attended an occupational exposure consultation. Occupational exposure was identified in 97 patients. Occupational exposure to asbestos was found in 12/31 (38.7%) patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and in 9/18 (50.0%) patients with unclassifiable fibrosis. Occupational exposure to metal dust was found in 13/31 (41.9%) patients with IPFs and 10/18 (55.6%) patients with unclassifiable fibrosis. Silica exposure was found in 12/50 (24.0%) patients with autoimmune ILD. The link between occupational exposure and ILD was confirmed for 41 patients after the specialist occupational consultation. The occupational origin had not been considered (n = 9) or had been excluded or neglected (n = 4) by the MDD before the specialised consultation. A total of 24 (17%) patients were advised to apply for occupational disease compensation, including 22 (15.6%) following the consultation. In addition, a diagnosis different from the one proposed by the MDD was proposed for 18/141 (12.8%) patients.

Conclusions

In our study, we found a high prevalence of occupational respiratory exposure with a potential causal link in patients with ILD. We suggest that a systematic specialised consultation in occupational medicine could be beneficial in the ILD diagnostic approach.
Cost-effectiveness analysis of fractional flow reserve versus angiography among patients with coronary artery disease undergoing borderline coronary lesions treatment in Iran
Authors: Keshavarz Khosro , Rezaee Rita , Esmaili Elahe , Mansouri Roohollah , Jafari Abdosaleh , Erami Azadeh , Talebianpour Hamid , Fonseca Ricardo , Fardid Mozhgan
Published: December 2022

Background

The present study aimed to examine the cost-effectiveness of fractional flow reserve (FFR) versus angiography in treating borderline coronary lesions in patients with coronary artery stenosis in Iran. Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of morbidity, mortality, readmission and the most important cause of disability in many countries, including Iran.

Methods

This was a cost-effectiveness study conducted from the perspective of the Ministry of Health in 2019. The effectiveness was determined using four indicators: Quality Adjusted Life Years (QALYs), major adverse cardiac events (MACE), angina, and number of used stents (mean). Only direct medical costs (DMC) were estimated. To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of FFR versus angiography, A decision tree model was built by patient’s level data.To coping with uncertainty Probabilistic sensitivity analysis (PSA) was performed.

Results

Totally, 98 cases of FFR and 238 cases of angiography were included in the analysis. The average of QALY in FFR and angiography were 0.853 and 0.787, respectively. The cost of these methods were $6128 and $8388, correspondingly. Therefore, FFR was dominant compared to angiography. Results of the scatter plots and acceptability curve showed that FFR was more cost-effective than angiography in 94% and 96% of simulations for a threshold lower than $11,000 PPP. The PSA analysis confirmed the robustness of the study results.

Conclusion

The results indicated that FFR was more cost-effective than angiography in the cases studied in Iran. Consequently, FFR can be used as a high-priority diagnostic method and it is recommendable to be included in insurance coverage.
Temporal proteomics of human cerebrospinal fluid after severe traumatic brain injury
Authors: Shultz Sandy R. , Shah Anup D. , Huang Cheng , Dill Larissa K. , Schittenhelm Ralf B. , Morganti-Kossmann M. Cristina , Semple Bridgette D.
Published: December 2022

The pathophysiology of traumatic brain injury (TBI) requires further characterization to fully elucidate changes in molecular pathways. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) provides a rich repository of brain-associated proteins. In this retrospective observational study, we implemented high-resolution mass spectrometry to evaluate changes to the CSF proteome after severe TBI. 91 CSF samples were analyzed with mass spectrometry, collected from 16 patients with severe TBI (mean 32 yrs; 81% male) on day 0, 1, 2, 4, 7 and/or 10 post-injury (8–16 samples/timepoint) and compared to CSF obtained from 11 non-injured controls. We quantified 1152 proteins with mass spectrometry, of which approximately 80% were associated with CSF. 1083 proteins were differentially regulated after TBI compared to control samples. The most highly-upregulated proteins at each timepoint included neutrophil elastase, myeloperoxidase, cathepsin G, matrix metalloproteinase-8, and S100 calcium-binding proteins A8, A9 and A12—all proteins involved in neutrophil activation, recruitment, and degranulation. Pathway enrichment analysis confirmed the robust upregulation of proteins associated with innate immune responses. Conversely, downregulated pathways included those involved in nervous system development, and several proteins not previously identified after TBI such as testican-1 and latrophilin-1. We also identified 7 proteins (GM2A, Calsyntenin 1, FAT2, GANAB, Lumican, NPTX1, SFRP2) positively associated with an unfavorable outcome at 6 months post-injury. Together, these findings highlight the robust innate immune response that occurs after severe TBI, supporting future studies to target neutrophil-related processes. In addition, the novel proteins we identified to be differentially regulated by severe TBI warrant further investigation as potential biomarkers of brain damage or therapeutic targets.
Microglial diversity along the hippocampal longitudinal axis impacts synaptic plasticity in adult male mice under homeostatic conditions
Authors: De Felice E. , Gonçalves de Andrade E. , Golia M. T. , González Ibáñez F. , Khakpour M. , Di Castro M. A. , Garofalo S. , Di Pietro E. , Benatti C. , Brunello N. , Tascedda F. , Kaminska B. , Limatola C. , Ragozzino D. , Tremblay M. E. , Alboni S. , Maggi L.
Published: December 2022

The hippocampus is a plastic brain area that shows functional segregation along its longitudinal axis, reflected by a higher level of long-term potentiation (LTP) in the CA1 region of the dorsal hippocampus (DH) compared to the ventral hippocampus (VH), but the mechanisms underlying this difference remain elusive. Numerous studies have highlighted the importance of microglia–neuronal communication in modulating synaptic transmission and hippocampal plasticity, although its role in physiological contexts is still largely unknown. We characterized in depth the features of microglia in the two hippocampal poles and investigated their contribution to CA1 plasticity under physiological conditions. We unveiled the influence of microglia in differentially modulating the amplitude of LTP in the DH and VH, showing that minocycline or PLX5622 treatment reduced LTP amplitude in the DH, while increasing it in the VH. This was recapitulated in Cx3cr1 knockout mice, indicating that microglia have a key role in setting the conditions for plasticity processes in a region-specific manner, and that the CX3CL1–CX3CR1 pathway is a key element in determining the basal level of CA1 LTP in the two regions. The observed LTP differences at the two poles were associated with transcriptional changes in the expression of genes encoding forIl-1,Tnf-α,Il-6, andBdnf, essential players of neuronal plasticity. Furthermore, microglia in the CA1 SR region showed an increase in soma and a more extensive arborization, an increased prevalence of immature lysosomes accompanied by an elevation in mRNA expression of phagocytic markersMertkandCd68and a surge in the expression of microglial outward K+currents in the VH compared to DH, suggesting a distinct basal phenotypic state of microglia across the two hippocampal poles. Overall, we characterized the molecular, morphological, ultrastructural, and functional profile of microglia at the two poles, suggesting that modifications in hippocampal subregions related to different microglial statuses can contribute to dissect the phenotypical aspects of many diseases in which microglia are known to be involved.
Competitive ability is a fast-evolving trait between house mouse populations (Mus musculus domesticus)
Authors: Linnenbrink Miriam
Published: December 2022

Background

House mice are commensal animals with a nearly global distribution, structured into well differentiated local populations. Besides genetic differences between the populations, they have also diverged behaviorally over time, whereby it remains open how fast general behavioral characteristics can change. Here we study the competitive potential of two very recently separated populations of the Western house mouse (Mus musculus domesticus) by using two different approaches—one under controlled cage conditions, the other under more natural conditions in enclosures mimicking a secondary encounter condition.

Results

We observe a clear bias in the competitive ability towards one of the populations for both tests. The measured behavioral bias is also reflected in the number of hybrid offspring produced in the enclosures.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that key behavioral characteristics with a direct influence on relative fitness can quickly change during the evolution of populations. It seems possible that the colonization situation in Western Europe, with a rapid spread of the mice after their arrival, would have favored more competitive populations at the expansion front. The study shows the possible impact of behavioral changes on the evolution of populations.
The mechanisms and cross-protection of trained innate immunity
Authors: Hu Shiwei , Xiang Danhong , Zhang Xinlu , Zhang Lan , Wang Shengjie , Jin Keyi , You Liangshun , Huang Jian
Published: December 2022

In recent years, the traditional cognition of immunological memory being specific to adaptive immunity has been challenged. Innate immunity can mount enhanced responsiveness upon secondary stimulation, and a phenomenon is termed trained innate immunity. Trained innate immunity is orchestrated by distinct metabolic and epigenetic reprogramming in both circulating myeloid cells and myeloid progenitor cells in bone marrow, leading to long-term resistance to related and non-related pathogens infections. The induction of trained innate immunity can also polarize innate immune cells towards a hyperresponsive phenotype in the tumor microenvironment to exert antitumor effects. This review will discuss the current understanding of innate immune memory and the mechanisms during the induction of innate immunity, including signaling pathways, metabolic changes, and epigenetic rewriting. We also provide an overview of cross-protection against infectious diseases and cancers based on trained innate immunity.
Discovery of vaccine-like recombinant SARS-CoV-2 circulating in human
Authors: He Daniel Chang , He Cheng-Qiang
Published: December 2022

For viral diseases, vaccination with live attenuated vaccine (LAV) is one of the most effective means for fighting the diseases. However, LAV occasionally overflows from vaccinated individuals circulate in the population with unforeseen consequences. Currently, SARS-CoV-2 LAVs are undergoing clinical trials. In this study, we found that the viruses isolated from Indian SARS CoV-2 infected persons may be candidate LAV-derived strains, indicating the risk of SARS-CoV-2 LAV spillover from vaccinated persons, increasing the complexity of SARS-CoV-2 detection. In addition, the property of frequent recombination of SARS-CoV-2 increases the chance of LAV virulence reversion. Therefore, how to distinguish the LAV viruses from the wild strain and how to avoid the recombination of the circulating vaccine strain and the wild strain are the challenges currently faced by SARS CoV-2 LAV development.
The clinical efficacy of periodontally accelerated osteogenic orthodontics in patients with bone fenestration and dehiscence: a retrospective study
Authors: Chen Ziling , Zhou Huan , Zhang Kaili , Wang Xu , Zhong Liangqiuyue , Hou Yuxia , Chen Yue
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The objective of the study was to explore the effect of periodontally accelerated osteogenic orthodontics (PAOO) in orthodontic patients with bone dehiscence and fenestration in the anterior alveolar region of the mandible.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed in 42 patients with bone dehiscence and fenestrations in the anterior alveolar region of the mandible who underwent the PAOO technique. The bleeding index (BI), probing depth (PD), keratinized gingiva width (KGW), gingival recession level (GRL), and gingival phenotype were recorded and assessed at baseline and 6 and 12 months postoperatively. Cone-beam computerized tomography was used to measure bone volume in terms of root length (RL), horizontal bone thickness at different levels, and vertical bone height at baseline and 6 months and 12 months after surgery.

Results

The sample was composed of 42 patients (22 males and 20 females; mean age, aged 25.6 ± 4.8 years) with 81 teeth showing dehiscence/fenestrations and 36 sites presenting gingival recessions. There was no significant difference in BI, PD, or KGW (between baseline and 6 or 12 months postoperatively) based on the clinical evaluations (P > 0.05). Gingival recession sites demonstrated a significant reduction in the GRL after surgery (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the proportion of teeth with a thick gingival phenotype increased from 33.61% at baseline to 53.13% at the end of the follow-up. In addition, the bone thickness measurements at the mid-root and crestal levels were markedly increased compared with the baseline values (P < 0.05), although the increase in thickness at the apical level was not statistically significant (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Within the limitations of the study, the results show that the PAOO technique is beneficial to periodontal conditions in terms of soft and hard tissue augmentation. The PAOO procedure may represent a safe and efficient treatment for orthodontic patients with bone dehiscence and fenestration.

Trial registration

This study was approved by the ethics committee of the stomatological hospital affiliated with Xi'an Jiaotong University (xjkqll [2019] No. 016) and registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2100053092).
A new in vitro monitoring system reveals a specific influence of Arabidopsis nitrogen nutrition on its susceptibility to Alternaria brassicicola at the seedling stage
Authors: Barrit Thibault , Campion Claire , Aligon Sophie , Bourbeillon Julie , Rousseau David , Planchet Elisabeth , Teulat Béatrice
Published: December 2022

Background

Seedling growth is an early phase of plant development highly susceptible to environmental factors such as soil nitrogen (N) availability or presence of seed-borne pathogens. Whereas N plays a central role in plant-pathogen interactions, its role has never been studied during this early phase for the interaction betweenArabidopsis thalianaandAlternaria brassicicola, a seed-transmitted necrotrophic fungus. The aim of the present work was to develop an in vitro monitoring system allowing to study the impact of the fungus onA. thalianaseedling growth, while modulating N nutrition.

Results

The developed system consists of square plates placed vertically and filled with nutrient agar medium allowing modulation of N conditions. Seeds are inoculated after sowing by depositing a droplet of conidial suspension. A specific semi-automated image analysis pipeline based on the Ilastik software was developed to quantify the impact of the fungus on seedling aerial development, calculating an index accounting for every aspect of fungal impact, namely seedling death, necrosis and developmental delay. The system also permits to monitor root elongation. The interest of the system was then confirmed by characterising how N media composition [0.1 and 5 mM of nitrate (NO3−), 5 mM of ammonium (NH4+)] affects the impact of the fungus on threeA. thalianaecotypes. Seedling development was strongly and negatively affected by the fungus. However, seedlings grown with 5 mM NO3−were less susceptible than those grown with NH4+or 0.1 mM NO3−, which differed from what was observed with adult plants (rosette stage).

Conclusions

The developed monitoring system allows accurate determination of seedling growth characteristics (both on aerial and root parts) and symptoms. Altogether, this system could be used to study the impact of plant nutrition on susceptibility of various genotypes to fungi at the seedling stage.
Usefulness of intraoperative nerve monitoring for giant type AB thymoma combined with an aberrant right subclavian artery: a case report
Authors: Iijima Yoshihito , Ishikawa Masahito , Iwai Shun , Yamagata Aika , Motono Nozomu , Tsuji Hiroyuki , Uramoto Hidetaka
Published: December 2022

Background

Abnormal tumor vascularization and escalating tumor size represent two major impediments that make cancer surgery impossible or complicated.

Case presentation

Herein, we report the case of a giant thymoma (type AB) in a 58-year-old woman who presented with cough and yellow sputum. The thymoma grew extensively from the neck to the upper mediastinum. The patient exhibited an aberrant right subclavian artery and a non-recurrent inferior laryngeal nerve. Intraoperative nerve monitoring facilitated the identification and preservation of vital nerves spanning the neck and chest, including the non-recurrent inferior laryngeal nerve. Furthermore, the tumor was divided naturally along the constriction, and a good field of view was acquired to identify abnormal right subclavian arteries and nerves that ran deep in the tumor and surgical field. The tumor was safely removed without complications using intraoperative nerve monitoring, and the thymoma that grew extensively from the neck to the upper mediastinum and was associated with an aberrant right subclavian artery was resected.

Conclusion

Intraoperative nerve monitoring was helpful in identifying the non-recurrent inferior laryngeal nerve and left recurrent laryngeal nerve.
CRAG: de novo characterization of cell-free DNA fragmentation hotspots in plasma whole-genome sequencing
Authors: Zhou Xionghui , Zheng Haizi , Fu Hailu , Dillehay McKillip Kelsey L. , Pinney Susan M. , Liu Yaping
Published: December 2022

The fine-scale cell-free DNA fragmentation patterns in early-stage cancers are poorly understood. We developed a de novo approach to characterize the cell-free DNA fragmentation hotspots from plasma whole-genome sequencing. Hotspots are enriched in open chromatin regions, and, interestingly, 3′end of transposons. Hotspots showed global hypo-fragmentation in early-stage liver cancers and are associated with genes involved in the initiation of hepatocellular carcinoma and associated with cancer stem cells. The hotspots varied across multiple early-stage cancers and demonstrated high performance for the diagnosis and identification of tissue-of-origin in early-stage cancers. We further validated the performance with a small number of independent case–control-matched early-stage cancer samples.
Topical glucocorticoid application causing iatrogenic Cushing’s syndrome followed by secondary adrenal insufficiency in infants: two case reports
Authors: Matejek Nicola , Hoos Johannes , Holterhus Paul Martin , Bettendorf Markus , Choukair Daniela
Published: December 2022

Background

Iatrogenic Cushing’s syndrome induced by oral and parenteral glucocorticoid administration is a well-known complication. Immediate withdrawal from exogenous steroids can lead to life-threatening adrenal insufficiency. However, Cushing’s syndrome caused by topical treatment with glucocorticoids, such as dexamethasone eye drops or dermal application, is rarely recognized. Young infants in particular are at high risk of suffering from iatrogenic Cushing’s syndrome when treated with highly potent topical glucocorticoids.

Case presentation

We present a 6-month-old Syrian boy with cushingoid face after dermal clobetasol cream treatment and a 2-year-old Iranian girl with severe growth retardation after application of dexamethasone eye drops. Both families have a migration background and language barriers. In both cases no endogenous cortisol secretion was initially detected in serum and in 24-hour collected urine. After dose reduction of glucocorticoids, severity of symptoms was reversible and serum cortisol was detectable.

Discussion and conclusion

Young infants are at high risk of developing Cushing’s syndrome from topically applied highly potent glucocorticoids. Precise recommendations of treatment dosage, duration, and frequency must be given to the parents, and if necessary, with the help of an interpreter. Monitoring of height and weight as well as regular pediatric follow-ups should be scheduled. Physicians should be aware of potential adrenal insufficiency following withdrawal from long-term topical glucocorticoid treatment, and hydrocortisone treatment should be considered.
Optic disc hemorrhage in a young female following mRNA coronavirus disease 2019 vaccination: a case report
Authors: Tsuda Kyohei , Oishi Akio , Kitaoka Takashi
Published: December 2022

Background

Since the development of the coronavirus disease 2019 vaccine, there have been many reports of its adverse effects. While respiratory symptoms are common, many other symptoms in various organs have been reported. Herein, we report a case of optic disc and retinal hemorrhage that developed immediately after coronavirus disease 2019 vaccination.

Case presentation

A healthy 18-year-old Japanese female noticed floater in the left eye 1 day after the second vaccination for coronavirus disease 2019 (Pfizer Inc.). Her visual acuity was 20/20 in the left eye, and Goldmann visual field test showed a relative scotoma around blind spot and in the temporal lower quadrant. It was considered due to subretinal hemorrhage and optic disc swelling. Fundus examination revealed retinal and optic disc hemorrhage. Pupillary reflex was intact and central critical flicker was not impaired, indicating that optic nerve was not involved. There was no sign of inflammation, vascular abnormality, nor history of an intense Valsalva maneuver. The hemorrhage resolved spontaneously within 5 months.

Conclusion

This case expands the clinical presentation of coronavirus disease 2019 vaccination-associated ocular adverse events, and it should be kept in mind when patients with similar symptoms visit clinics. The case report will help clinicians avoid unnecessary and invasive examinations and treatment.
NIDD: an intelligent network intrusion detection model for nursing homes
Authors: Zhou Feng , Du Xin , Li Wenli , Lu Zhihui , Wu Jie
Published: December 2022

In nursing homes using technologies such as IoT, big data, cloud computing, and machine learning, there is a constant risk of attacks such as Brute Force FTP, Brute Force SSH, Web Attack, Infiltration, and Botnet during data communication between individual terminals and the cloud server. Therefore, effectively identifying network communication data is essential to protect data communication security between individual terminals and the cloud server. Aiming at the data mentioned above regarding communication security issues, we propose an intelligent intrusion detection model NIDD (Network Intelligent Data Detection) model that combines deep convolution generation adversarial network (DCGAN) with Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM) and Shapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP). The NIDD model first generates new attack samples by learning the feature distribution of the existing attack sample data and effectively expands the rare attack samples. Secondly, we use the Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM) algorithm as the base classifier to train the dataset and start to build the intrusion detection model. Then use Shapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) to analyze the contribution of the classification results, and adjust the model parameters according to the analysis results. Finally, we obtain the optimal model for the intelligent detection model of network intrusion. This paper conducts experimental tests on the NSL-KDD dataset. The experimental results show that the NIDD model built based on Light Gradient Boosting Machine can detect Brute Force FTP, Brute Force SSH, DoS, Heartbleed, Web Attack, Infiltration, Botnet, PROBE, R2L, and U2R attacks with an accuracy of 99.76%. Finally, we re-verified the NIDD model on the CIC-IDC-2018 dataset. The results once again proved that the NIDD model could solve the data communication security between the nursing robot and the cloud server and the data before the IoT terminal and the cloud server. Communication security provides a sufficient guarantee.
Revisiting the energy-growth-environment nexus in the OECD countries: An application of the CS-ARDL approach
Authors: Vo Duc Hong , Ho Chi Minh , Le Quan Thai Thuong , Vo Anh The
Published: December 2022

Background

This study revisits the energy-growth-environment nexus in the member countries of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) by examining the role of trade openness, financial development, and urbanization. The cross-sectional augmented distributed lag (CS-ARDL) approach is employed to address the presence of slope homoskedasticity and cross-sectional dependence in the data set.

Results

Our empirical findings fail to confirm the validity of the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) hypothesis for emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) during the period researched. CO2 emissions have bidirectional causality with income, the share of renewable energy, and the share of nonrenewable energy. Trade openness, financial development, and urbanization play different roles in the energy-growth-environment nexus. Whereas trade openness increases CO2 emissions, financial development reduces consumption of renewable energy. Urbanization plays a limited role in this nexus.

Conclusions

These findings lead to some policy implications. The close relationship between economic growth, CO2 emissions, and energy consumption is highlighted, which suggests that a policy targeting one component needs to consider the impacts on the other components.
Children education for sustainable control of liver fluke infections
Authors: Qian Men-Bao , Zhou Xiao-Nong
Published: December 2022

Significant disease burden is caused by infections with human liver flukes, including Clonorchis sinensis, Opisthorchis viverrini and O. felineus. Epidemiology is characterized by high burden in the male than the female, and in the elder than the younger. Chemotherapy is the mainstream for morbidity control, but it could not prevent re-infection. Meanwhile, behavioral change on the dietary habit of ingesting raw freshwater fish is challenging. In this opinion, we argue why it is important to educate children for sustainable control of liver fluke infections. Then, the design, development and key messages of an educational cartoon for preventing liver fluke infections is introduced. Technical focuses are emphasized based on a pilot using the education cartoon for preventing clonorchiasis in China. Finally, how to further develop and verify this education strategy is discussed.

Graphical Abstract
First record of the human infection of Brucella melitensis in Kyrgyzstan: evidence from whole-genome sequencing-based analysis
Authors: Kydyshov Kalysbek , Usenbaev Nurbolot , Berdiev Stalbek , Dzhaparova Aigul , Abidova Aziza , Kebekbaeva Nuraiym , Abdyraev Murat , Wareth Gamal , Brangsch Hanka , Melzer Falk , Neubauer Heinrich , Pletz Mathias W.
Published: December 2022

Background

Brucellosis, a zoonosis mainly transmitted by consumption of unpasteurized dairy products as well as direct contact with infected animals, is endemic in Kyrgyzstan. However, Brucella species in humans have not been investigated and the origin of the disease remains poorly known in wide parts of Сentral Asia. Thus, molecular characterization of the circulating strains is a critical first step in understanding Brucella diversity in the country.

Methods

In this study, isolates were collected from patients with suspected brucellosis from different regions in Kyrgyzstan between 2019 and 2020. The detection and identification of Brucella was carried out by Bruce-ladder PCR. Next generation sequencing was used to sequence the 89 Brucella isolates, which were genotyped by cgSNP and cgMLST to identify epidemiological connection between Brucella isolates as well as placing them in the context of the global Brucella phylogeny.

Results

The Brucella strains isolated from all regions of Kyrgyzstan were identified as B. melitensis. Based on cgSNP analysis, 18 sequence types were differentiated. The highest numbers of different sequence types were found in Batken (n = 8), Osh (n = 8) and Jalal-Abad (n = 6) oblasts. According to cgSNP and cgMLST analyses, different B. melitensis lineages circulate in Kyrgyzstan, all of them belonging to the Eastern Mediterranean group of the global Brucella phylogeny with the highest similarity to strains from Turkmenistan, Iran and Turkey.

Conclusion

In the present study, B. melitensis was identified as a causative agent of human brucellosis in Kyrgyzstan and different lineages could be identified. Since this study focused on isolates of human origin, the identity of Brucella species and lineages circulating among animal populations remains elusive. Implementing culture techniques and use of most recent molecular, bioinformatic and epidemiological tools are needed to set up a One Health approach to combat brucellosis in Kyrgyzstan. Further, other Сentral Asian countries need to take part in this effort as brucellosis is a transboundary disease in these regions.

Graphical Abstract
Establishment of an indicator framework for the transmission risk of the mountain-type zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis based on the Delphi-entropy weight method
Authors: Luo Zhuowei , Zhou Zhengbin , Hao Yuwan , Feng Jiaxin , Gong Yanfeng , Li Yuanyuan , Huang Yun , Zhang Yi , Li Shizhu
Published: December 2022

Background

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is one of the most important neglected tropical diseases. Although VL was controlled in several regions of China during the last century, the mountain-type zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis (MT-ZVL) has reemerged in the hilly areas of China in recent decades. The purpose of this study was to construct an indicator framework for assessing the risk of the MT-ZVL in China, and to provide guidance for preventing disease.

Methods

Based on a literature review and expert interview, a 3-level indicator framework was initially established in November 2021, and 28 experts were selected to perform two rounds of consultation using the Delphi method. The comprehensive weight of the tertiary indicators was determined by the Delphi and the entropy weight methods.

Results

Two rounds of Delphi consultation were conducted. Four primary indicators, 11 secondary indicators, and 35 tertiary indicators were identified. The Delphi-entropy weight method was performed to calculate the comprehensive weight of the tertiary indicators. The normalized weights of the primary indicators were 0.268, 0.261, 0.242, and 0.229, respectively, for biological factors, interventions, environmental factors, and social factors. The normalized weights of the top four secondary indicators were 0.122, 0.120, 0.098, and 0.096, respectively, for climatic features, geographical features, sandflies, and dogs. Among the tertiary indicators, the top four normalized comprehensive weights were the population density of sandflies (0.076), topography (0.057), the population density of dogs, including tethering (0.056), and use of bed nets or other protective measures (0.056).

Conclusions

An indicator framework of transmission risk assessment for MT-ZVL was established using the Delphi-entropy weight method. The framework provides a practical tool to evaluate transmission risk in endemic areas.
Depth perception between dots and the background face reduces trypophobic discomfort
Authors: Song Nanxin , Koyama Shinichi
Published: December 2022

Background

Studies have shown that viewing a cluster of dots evokes feelings of discomfort in viewers and that the discomfort becomes especially strong when the dots are placed on background images of human skin. This phenomenon has been explained by the physical properties and spatial and semantic relationships between the dots and the background. However, it was not known whether the perceived, as well as the physical, spatial relationships contributes to the generation of discomfort.

Methods

We evoked illusory depth perception between black dots and the background face by drawing shadow-like gray dots around the black dots, while keeping the same black dots at the same positions, and examined whether illusory depth perception could increase or decrease discomfort. In each trial, participants viewed one of the following types of facial images: (a) face-only (face without dots), (b) a cluster of black dots on the face, (c) a cluster of gray dots on the face, and (d) a cluster of black dots and shadow-like gray dots on the face. After seeing each picture, they evaluated how much discomfort they felt from viewing the picture using a Likert scale and reported whether they perceived depth between the dots and the face.

Results

Participants felt discomfort toward all three types of faces with dots, that is, faces with black dots, gray dots, and both. However, interestingly, participants felt less discomfort when both black and gray dots were presented on the face than when only black dots were presented. The participants perceived depth between the black dots and the face in 85% of the trials with black dots and shadow-like gray dots, and there was a significant correlation between discomfort and frequency of depth perception. However, in the trials with black dots only and gray dots only, they perceived depth in only 18% and 27% of the trials, respectively, and the correlations between the frequencies of depth perception and discomfort were not significant.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the perceived spatial relationship, such as attached vs. separate, as well as the physical spatial relationship, contribute to the generation of discomfort.
Simulation of Germanium-on-Nothing cavity’s morphological transformation using deep learning
Authors: Jeong Jaewoo , Kim Taeyeong , Lee Jungchul
Published: December 2022

Unique self-assembled germanium structures known as Germanium-on-Nothing (GON), which are fabricated via annealing, have buried multiscale cavities with different morphologies. Due to their unique sub-surface morphologies, GON structures are utilized in various applications including optoelectronics, micro-/nanoelectronics, and precision sensors. Each application requires different cavity shapes, and a simulation tool is able to determine the required annealing duration for a given shape. However, a theoretical simulation inevitably requires simplifications which limit its accuracy. Herein, to resolve such dependence on simplification, we introduce a deep learning-based method for simulating the transformation of sub-surface morhpology of GON over annealing. Namely, a deep learning model is trained to predict GON’s morphological transformation from 4 cross-sectional images acquired at different annealing times. Compared to conventional simulation schemes, our proposed deep learning-based simulation method is not only computationally efficient ($$\sim 10$$

∼
10

min) but also physically accurate with its use of empirical data.