bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibitors and facilitators of compliance with professional ethics standards: nurses’ perspective
Authors: Sharifi Shahram , Ebrahimi Hossein , Elyaszadeh Shahla , Latifi Arman , Khodayari Mohammad Taghi , Alizadeh Maedeh
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The clinical practices of nurses should be in accordance with the principles of professional ethics. Respecting professional ethics principles depends on several factors. The present study was conducted to investigate the effective inhibitors and facilitators in compliance with professional ethics and their importance from the nurses’ perspective.

Methods

During this cross-sectional descriptive study, 452 nurses were included by the census sampling method. The data were collected via the “inhibitors of compliance with professional ethics standards by the nurses’ perspective” and “facilitators of compliance with professional ethics standards by the nurses’ perspective” questionnaires. Additionally, by designing the “open-ended question” section, other inhibiting and facilitating factors of professional ethics standards from the nurses’ perspective were investigated. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics (Wilcoxon signed ranks test).

Results

The individual care-related dimension as a facilitator had the highest mean score compared to the other dimensions (76.62 ± 4.92). Furthermore, seven items in the inhibitor section, 19 items in the facilitator section had higher scores. Among them, there were seven items in common. Strong or weak belief in compliance with ethical issues had the highest mean scores in the role of facilitator and inhibitor (90.54 ± 12.13 and 89.54 ± 14.88, respectively).

Conclusion

Strong or weak belief in compliance with ethical issues was the most important inhibitor and facilitator from the nurses’ perspective, which makes it necessary to examine individual beliefs about ethical issues among applicants to enter the nursing profession.
Integrative systems biology of wheat susceptibility to Fusarium graminearum uncovers a conserved gene regulatory network and identifies master regulators targeted by fungal core effectors
Authors: Rocher Florian , Dou Samir , Philippe Géraldine , Martin Marie-Laure , Label Philippe , Langin Thierry , Bonhomme Ludovic
Published: March 2024

Background

Plant diseases are driven by an intricate set of defense mechanisms counterbalanced by the expression of host susceptibility factors promoted through the action of pathogen effectors. In spite of their central role in the establishment of the pathology, the primary components of plant susceptibility are still poorly understood and challenging to trace especially in plant-fungal interactions such as in Fusarium head blight (FHB) of bread wheat. Designing a system-level transcriptomics approach, we leveraged the analysis of wheat responses from a susceptible cultivar facingFusarium graminearumstrains of different aggressiveness and examined their constancy in four other wheat cultivars also developing FHB.

Results

In this study, we describe unexpected differential expression of a conserved set of transcription factors and an original subset of master regulators were evidenced using a regulation network approach. The dual-integration with the expression data of pathogen effector genes combined with database mining, demonstrated robust connections with the plant molecular regulators and identified relevant candidate genes involved in plant susceptibility, mostly able to suppress plant defense mechanisms. Furthermore, taking advantage of wheat cultivars of contrasting susceptibility levels, a refined list of 142 conserved susceptibility gene candidates was proposed to be necessary host’s determinants for the establishment of a compatible interaction.

Conclusions

Our findings emphasized major FHB determinants potentially controlling a set of conserved responses associated with susceptibility in bread wheat. They provide new clues for improving FHB control in wheat and also could conceivably leverage further original researches dealing with a broader spectrum of plant pathogens.
Thrombospondin 1 enhances systemic inflammation and disease severity in acute-on-chronic liver failure
Authors: Hassan Hozeifa Mohamed , Liang Xi , Xin Jiaojiao , Lu Yingyan , Cai Qun , Shi Dongyan , Ren Keke , Li Jun , Chen Qi , Li Jiang , Li Peng , Guo Beibei , Yang Hui , Luo Jinjin , Yao Heng , Zhou Xingping , Hu Wen , Jiang Jing , Li Jun
Published: March 2024

Background

The key role of thrombospondin 1 (THBS1) in the pathogenesis of acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is unclear. Here, we present a transcriptome approach to evaluate THBS1 as a potential biomarker in ACLF disease pathogenesis.

Methods

Biobanked peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from 330 subjects with hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related etiologies, including HBV-ACLF, liver cirrhosis (LC), and chronic hepatitis B (CHB), and normal controls (NC) randomly selected from the Chinese Group on the Study of Severe Hepatitis B (COSSH) prospective multicenter cohort underwent transcriptome analyses (ACLF = 20; LC = 10; CHB = 10; NC = 15); the findings were externally validated in participants from COSSH cohort, an ACLF rat model and hepatocyte-specific THBS1 knockout mice.

Results

THBS1 was the top significantly differentially expressed gene in the PBMC transcriptome, with the most significant upregulation in ACLF, and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (ACLF = 110; LC = 60; CHB = 60; NC = 45) was used to verify that THBS1 expression corresponded to ACLF disease severity outcome, including inflammation and hepatocellular apoptosis. THBS1 showed good predictive ability for ACLF short-term mortality, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of 0.8438 and 0.7778 at 28 and 90 days, respectively. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay validation of the plasma THBS1 using an expanded COSSH cohort subjects (ACLF = 198; LC = 50; CHB = 50; NC = 50) showed significant correlation between THBS1 with ALT and γ-GT (P = 0.01), and offered a similarly good prognostication predictive ability (AUROC = 0.7445 and 0.7175) at 28 and 90 days, respectively. ACLF patients with high-risk short-term mortality were identified based on plasma THBS1 optimal cut-off value (< 28 µg/ml). External validation in ACLF rat serum and livers confirmed the functional association between THBS1, the immune response and hepatocellular apoptosis. Hepatocyte-specific THBS1 knockout improved mouse survival, significantly repressed major inflammatory cytokines, enhanced the expression of several anti-inflammatory mediators and impeded hepatocellular apoptosis.

Conclusions

THBS1 might be an ACLF disease development-related biomarker, promoting inflammatory responses and hepatocellular apoptosis, that could provide clinicians with a new molecular target for improving diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

Graphical Abstract
Heterozygous truncating variant of TAOK1 in a boy with periventricular nodular heterotopia: a case report and literature review of TAOK1-related neurodevelopmental disorders
Authors: Cavalli Anna , Caraffi Stefano Giuseppe , Rizzi Susanna , Trimarchi Gabriele , Napoli Manuela , Frattini Daniele , Spagnoli Carlotta , Garavelli Livia , Fusco Carlo
Published: March 2024

Background

Thousand and one amino-acid kinase 1 (TAOK1) encodes the MAP3K protein kinase TAO1, which has recently been displayed to be essential for neuronal maturation and cortical differentiation during early brain development. Heterozygous variants in TAOK1 have been reported in children with neurodevelopmental disorders, with or without macrocephaly, hypotonia and mild dysmorphic traits. Literature reports lack evidence of neuronal migration disorders in TAOK1 patients, although studies in animal models suggest this possibility.

Case presentation

We provide a clinical description of a child with a neurodevelopmental disorder due to a novel TAOK1 truncating variant, whose brain magnetic resonance imaging displays periventricular nodular heterotopia.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first report of a neuronal migration disorder in a patient with a TAOK1-related neurodevelopmental disorder, thus supporting the hypothesized pathogenic mechanisms of TAOK1 defects.
The influence of transformations in supply on methamphetamine initiation among people injecting opioids in the United States
Authors: Mars Sarah , Ondocsin Jeff , Holm Nicole , Ciccarone Daniel
Published: March 2024

Background

Co-use of methamphetamine (MA) and opioids (pharmaceutical pills, heroin and fentanyls) has increased in the United States and is represented in rising mortality. Although coinciding with the import of low cost, high potency and purity methamphetamine, the relationship between supply and demand in propelling this polydrug use is not well understood. We consider the influence of macro changes in supply on the uptake of opioid and methamphetamine co-use by injection at the level of individual drug and injection initiation in West Virginia, a state which leads the US in drug overdose mortality.

Method

We recruited n = 30 people for semi-structured interviews who self-reported injecting heroin/fentanyl and using methamphetamine by any route at a West Virginia syringe service program and through snowball sampling. Interviews were recorded and transcripts analyzed using a thematic approach. Ethnographic observation was also conducted and recorded in fieldnotes. Sequence of substance and mode of use initiation and use trajectories for opioids and stimulants were charted for each participant.

Results

A clear pattern of individual drug initiation emerged that matched each successive supply wave of the US overdose epidemic: 25 participants had initiated opioid use with pills, followed by heroin, often mixed with/replaced by fentanyl, and subsequently added methamphetamine use. For participants, the supply and consumption of opioid analgesics had set in motion a series of steps leading to the addition of stimulant injection to existing opioid injecting repertoires. Unlike other studies that have found a birth cohort effect in patterns of initiation, participants showed the same sequence across age groups. Considerations of economy, availability, dependence, tolerance and the erosion of taboos that marked transitions from opioid pills to heroin injection influenced these subsequent trajectories in novel ways. The form, timing and extent of opioid and stimulant consumption was influenced by four stages of the changing drug supply, which in turn reflected back on demand.

Conclusion

Transformations in the social meaning and supply of methamphetamine enabled these transitions while other desired, non-injectable drugs were difficult to obtain. We discuss policy implications of injectable drugs’ market dominance at this location and possible interventions.
Assessment of artificial intelligence model and manual morphokinetic annotation system as embryo grading methods for successful live birth prediction: a retrospective monocentric study
Authors: Papamentzelopoulou Myrto-Sotiria , Prifti Ilectra-Niki , Mavrogianni Despoina , Tseva Thomais , Soyhan Ntilay , Athanasiou Aikaterini , Athanasiou Antonia , Athanasiou Adamantios , Vogiatzi Paraskevi , Konomos George , Loutradis Dimitrios , Sakellariou Maria
Published: March 2024

Purpose

The introduction of the time-lapse monitoring system (TMS) and the development of predictive algorithms could contribute to the optimal embryos selection for transfer. Therefore, the present study aims at investigating the efficiency of KIDScore and iDAScore systems for blastocyst stage embryos in predicting live birth events.

Methods

The present retrospective study was conducted in a private IVF Unit setting throughout a 10-month period from October 2021 to July 2022, and included the analysis of 429 embryos deriving from 91 IVF/ICSI cycles conducted due to infertility of various etiologies. Embryos incubated at the Embryoscope+ timelapse incubator were analyzed through the established scoring systems: KIDScore and iDAScore®. The main outcome measure was the comparison of the two scoring systems in terms of live birth prediction. Embryos with the higher scores at day 5 (KID5 score/iDA5 score) were transferred or cryopreserved for later use.

Results

Embryos with high KID5 and iDA5 scores positively correlated with the probability of successful live birth, with KID5 score yielding a higher efficiency in predicting a successful reproductive outcome compared to a proportionally high iDA5 score. KID5 demonstrated conservative performance in successfully predicting live birth compared to iDA5 score, indicating that an efficient prediction can be either provided by a relatively lower KID5 score or a relatively higher iDA5 score.

Conclusion

The developed artificial intelligence tools should be implemented in clinical practice in conjunction with the conventional morphological assessment for the conduction of optimized embryo transfer in terms of a successful live birth.
MORN2 regulates the morphology and energy metabolism of mitochondria and is required for male fertility in mice
Authors: Liu Yining , Li Tongtong , Shi Mingze , Wan Yanling , Li Hanzhen , Zhang Mingyu , Wang Ziqi , Wang Shiyu , Lv Yue , Lu Gang , Liu Hongbin , Zhang Haobo , Huang Tao
Published: March 2024

Background

Mitochondria produce adenosine triphosphate through respiratory activities to power sperm differentiation and motility, and decreased mitochondrial respiratory activity can result in poor sperm motility and asthenospermia. The mitochondrial sheath is a component of the mid-piece of the sperm flagellum, and dysfunction of the sheath can reduce sperm motility and cause male infertility. The membrane occupation and recognition nexus-motif protein 2 (MORN2) is testis enriched in mice, and the MORN motif was reported to play a role in the regulation of bioelectrical signal homeostasis in cardiomyocytes.

Methods

We generated Morn2–/– mice using CRISPR/Cas9 and evaluated the potential functions of MORN2 in spermiogenesis through histological analysis, fertility examination, RT-PCR, CASA, immunofluorescence, TUNEL, electron microscopy analysis, mitochondrial energy metabolism analysis, etc.

Results

The Morn2–/– mice were infertile, and their sperm showed severe motility defects. Morn2–/– sperm also had abnormal morphology characterized by bent heads, aberrant mitochondrial sheath formation, lower mitochondrial membrane potential, higher levels of reactive oxygen species, and decreased mitochondrial respiratory activity.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that MORN2 is essential for male fertility and indicates that MORN2 functions in mitochondrial sheath formation and regulates mitochondrial respiratory activity.
Meta-analysis of trigger timing in normal responders undergoing GnRH antagonist ovarian hyperstimulation protocol
Authors: Xie Qijun , Ni Danyu , Chen Sisi , Zhang Wenjie , Wang Jue , Ling Xiufeng , Shen Rong
Published: March 2024

Importance

The first meta-analysis focused only on gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists, which helped determine the effect of delay trigger on pregnancy outcomes.

Objective

To evaluate the impact of delay trigger compared with standard trigger in normal responders undergoing GnRH antagonist protocol in improving pregnancy outcomes.

Methods

Studies published before April 2023 in PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CNKI, Wanfang, VIP and CBM databases were searched. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies conducted in normal responders reporting the efficacy of delay trigger using GnRH antagonist protocol were included. Data were combined to calculate mean differences (MD) for continuous variables and odd ratios (OR) for categorical variables with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Heterogeneity was assessed using Cochran’s Q test.

Results

Endpoints, including clinical pregnancy rate (CPR), live birth rate (LBR), the number of oocyte retrievals and embryos, and fertilization rate, were analyzed. Six (6) clinical studies (4 RCTs and 2 cohort studies) with 1,360 subjects were included. The pooled results showed that the number of oocyte retrievals (MD: 1.20, 95% CI: 1.10, 1.30, p < 0.01), fertilization rate (MD: 0.64, 95% CI: 0.29, 0.99, p < 0.01) and days of stimulation (MD: 0.95; 95% CI: 0.54, 1.37; p < 0.01) in the delay trigger group was significantly higher than that in the standard trigger group. However, there was no significant difference in the number of embryos (MD: 0.19, 95% CI: -0.29, 0.67, p = 0.44), CPR (OR: 1.12; 95% CI: 0.72, 1.75; p = 0.062), and LBR (OR: 1.23; 95% CI: 0.90, 1.66; p = 0.19) between the two trigger groups.

Conclusion

Delaying trigger time in GnRH antagonist protocol increased the number of oocytes retrieved but not the number of embryos. Furthermore, delay trigger shot was not associated with a clinical benefit towards CPR and LBR in women who underwent fresh embryo transfer cycles.

Trial registration

The International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO), registration number: CRD42023413217.
Mesonephric-like adenocarcinoma of the ovary
Authors: Yang Yun , Zhao Mengru , Jia Qiuchen , Tang Huimin , Xing Tingwei , Li Yang , Tang Bin , Xu Lin , Wei Weiwei , Zheng Hong , Shi Ruxia , Xia Bairong , Chen Jiming
Published: March 2024

Mesonephric-like adenocarcinoma is a new class of rare subtypes of the female reproductive system. Its clinical symptoms are similar to other types of ovarian tumors. The diagnosis is based on pathological and immunohistochemical methods. The main treatment option is surgery combined with chemotherapy. Few cases have been reported at home and abroad. We reported a case of a 45-year-old woman with a cystic solid mass in the left adnexa. The postoperative pathological diagnosis was mesonephric-like adenocarcinoma of the left ovary and mature cystic teratoma (partial infiltration of the small intestine). This case had no specific clinical symptoms. Immunohistochemical findings showed positive results of GATA3, TTF1, CD10, ER, and PR. Paclitaxel and carboplatin chemotherapy were given after the operation. Currently, no specific criteria are available for diagnosis and treatment of the disease. This article aims to improve the understanding of clinicians in this disease and create a basis for clinical diagnosis and treatment.
Urinary prostanoids are elevated by anti-TNF and anti-IL6 receptor disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs but are not predictive of response to treatment in early rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Liu Jianyang , Idborg Helena , Korotkova Marina , Lend Kristina , van Vollenhoven Ronald , Lampa Jon , Rudin Anna , Nordström Dan , Gudbjornsson Bjorn , Gröndal Gerdur , Uhlig Till , Hørslev-Petersen Kim , Lund Hetland Merete , Østergaard Mikkel , Nurmohamed Michael , Jakobsson Per-Johan
Published: March 2024

Background

Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are widely used for treating rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, there are no established biomarkers to predict a patient’s response to these therapies. Prostanoids, encompassing prostaglandins, prostacyclins, and thromboxanes, are potent lipid mediators implicated in RA progression. Nevertheless, the influence of DMARDs on prostanoid biosynthesis in RA patients remains poorly understood. This study aims to assess the impact of various DMARDs on urinary prostanoids levels and to explore whether urinary prostanoid profiles correlate with disease activity or response to therapy.

Methods

This study included 152 Swedish female patients with early RA, all rheumatoid factor (RF) positive, enrolled in the NORD-STAR trial (registration number: NCT01491815). Participants were randomized into four therapeutic regimes: methotrexate (MTX) combined with (i) prednisolone (arm ACT), (ii) TNF-α blocker certolizumab pegol (arm CZP), (iii) CTLA-4Ig abatacept (arm ABA), or (iv) IL-6R blocker tocilizumab (arm TCZ). Urine samples, collected before start of treatment and at 24 weeks post-treatment, were analyzed for tetranor-prostaglandin E metabolite (tPGEM), tetranor-prostaglandin D metabolite (tPGDM), 2,3-dinor thromboxane B2 (TXBM), 2,3-dinor-6-keto prostaglandin F1a (PGIM), leukotriene E4 (LTE4) and 12-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (12-HETE) using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS). Generalized estimating equation (GEE) models were used to analyze the change in urinary eicosanoids and their correlations to clinical outcomes.

Results

Patients receiving MTX combined with CZP or TCZ exhibited significant elevations in urinary tPGEM and TXBM levels after 24 weeks of treatment. Other eicosanoids did not show significant alterations in response to any treatment. Baseline urinary eicosanoid levels did not correlate with baseline clinical disease activity index (CDAI) levels, nor with changes in CDAI from baseline to week 24. Their levels were also similar between patients who achieved CDAI remission and those with active disease at week 24.

Conclusions

Treatment with anti-TNF or anti-IL6R agents in early RA patients leads to an increased systemic production of proinflammatory and prothrombotic prostanoids. However, urinary eicosanoid levels do not appear to be predictive of the response to DMARDs therapy.
Eosinophilic gastritis and gluten-sensitive enteropathy manifested as hypoproteinemia and treated with omalizumab: a case report
Authors: Du Zhirong , Wang Zixi , Zhou Weixun , Yin Jia , Zhi Yuxiang
Published: March 2024

Background

Eosinophilic gastritis (EoG) has rarely been reported in conjunction with gluten-sensitive enteropathy (GSE). When this does occur, patients typically present with gastrointestinal symptoms. To our knowledge, hypoproteinemia has not been reported as the primary manifestation. Anti-IgE therapy, such as omalizumab, lowers eosinophil counts in the blood, lungs, and gut. Its efficiency in treating active EoG remain unknown.

Case presentation

We report a 33-month-old boy with a history of food allergy and atopic dermatitis who developed recurrent edema, hypoproteinemia, and eosinophilia at the age of 14 months. The diagnoses of EoG and GSE were confirmed based on the clinical presentation and results of gastrointestinal biopsies and serological testing. Although prednisone and dietary intervention were initially effective, the boy developed prednisone-related facial swelling. After stopping prednisone, his symptoms relapsed. Subsequent treatment with omalizumab, combined with dietary intervention, showed good efficacy and safety.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first case of concurrent EoG and GSE that presented primarily with hypoproteinemia. We highlight the rare manifestations of these two diseases to raise clinical suspicion and prevent missed and delayed diagnoses. The pathogenesis of EoG is heterogeneous and complex. Omalizumab showed good efficacy, indicating that IgE-mediated processes may be involved in the pathogenesis of this patient’s diseases.
Digital skull anatomy of the Oligocene North American tortoise Stylemys nebrascensis with taxonomic comments on the species and comparisons with extant testudinids of the Gopherus–Manouria clade
Authors: Evers Serjoscha W. , Al Iawati Zahra
Published: March 2024

The anatomy of North American tortoises is poorly understood, despite a rich fossil record from the Eocene and younger strata. Stylemys nebrascensis is a particularly noteworthy turtle in this regard, as hundreds of specimens are known from Oligocene deposits, and as this species is one of the earliest fossil turtles to have been described in the scientific literature. Since its initial description based on a shell, many specimens with more complete material have been referred to Stylemys nebrascensis. Here, we review and confirm the referral of an important historic specimen to Stylemys nebrascensis, which includes shell, non-shell postcranial, and skull material. This allows us to document unique skull features of Stylemys nebrascensis (e.g., an unusual ‘poststapedial canal’ that connects the posterior skull surface with the cavum acustico-jugulare) and to refer another well-preserved skull to the species. Based on computed-tomography scanning of these two skulls, we provide a detailed description of the cranial and mandibular osteology of Stylemys nebrascensis. Stylemys nebrascensis has a combination of plesiomorphic skull characteristics (e.g., retention of a medial jugal process) and derived traits shared with extant gopher tortoises (e.g., median premaxillary ridge) that suggest it may be a stem-representative of the gopher tortoise lineage. This supports the hypothesis that extant and fossil tortoises from North America form a geographically restricted clade that split from Asian relatives during the Paleogene.
Low-cost and high-performance abnormal trajectory detection based on the GRU model with deep spatiotemporal sequence analysis in cloud computing
Authors: Tang Guohao , Zhao Huaying , Yu Baohua
Published: March 2024

Trajectory anomalies serve as early indicators of potential issues and frequently provide valuable insights into event occurrence. Existing methods for detecting abnormal trajectories primarily focus on comparing the spatial characteristics of the trajectories. However, they fail to capture the temporal dimension’s pattern and evolution within the trajectory data, thereby inadequately identifying the behavioral inertia of the target group. A few detection methods that incorporate spatiotemporal features have also failed to adequately analyze the spatiotemporal sequence evolution information; consequently, detection methods that ignore temporal and spatial correlations are too one-sided. Recurrent neural networks (RNNs), especially gate recurrent unit (GRU) that design reset and update gate control units, process nonlinear sequence processing capabilities, enabling effective extraction and analysis of both temporal and spatial characteristics. However, the basic GRU network model has limited expressive power and may not be able to adequately capture complex sequence patterns and semantic information. To address the above issues, an abnormal trajectory detection method based on the improved GRU model is proposed in cloud computing in this paper. To enhance the anomaly detection ability and training efficiency of relevant models, strictly control the input of irrelevant features and improve the model fitting effect, an improved model combining the random forest algorithm and fully connected layer network is designed. The method deconstructs spatiotemporal semantics through reset and update gated units, while effectively capturing feature evolution information and target behavioral inertia by leveraging the integration of features and nonlinear mapping capabilities of the fully connected layer network. The experimental results based on the GeoLife GPS trajectory dataset indicate that the proposed approach improves both generalization ability by 1% and reduces training cost by 31.68%. This success do provides a practical solution for the task of anomaly trajectory detection.
Optimized protocols for protoplast isolation, transfection, and regeneration in the Solanum genus for the CRISPR/Cas-mediated transgene-free genome editing
Authors: Yang So Hee , Kim Suk Weon , Lee Sujin , Koo Yeonjong
Published: March 2024

The Solanaceae family includes the largest flowering crops such as tomatoes, potatoes, and eggplants. Consumer demand has led to massive development of plants in the Solanum genus, and many different Solanum varieties are now available on the market. The recent advances in Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9)-based genome editing have allowed laboratories and smaller crop production companies to utilize the technology in various crops. The traditional transformation method in crops involves the use of Agrobacterium, which is considered the most efficient method for introducing exogenous genetic materials in target plants. The Agrobacterium-mediated transformation method has been also established in the Solanaceae family, enabling CRISPR/Cas-based genome editing in crops like tomatoes, potatoes, and eggplants. However, the Agrobacterium-mediated approach inevitably accompanies the insertion of exogenous DNA into the plant genome and often causes the formation of chimera that require further propagation steps. Alternatively, the CRISPR/Cas components can be introduced into protoplasts in the form of DNA for transient expression or a mixture of protein and RNA to avoid genomic insertion of foreign materials. The protoplast transformation approach involves processes including protoplast preparation, transfection, and regeneration, which require a comprehensive understanding and greater technical mastery of the tissue culture phase. Here we highlight the current research advances in protoplast transformation and discuss how to optimize the procedures of protoplast isolation, transfection, and regeneration for efficient and reproducible CRISPR/Cas-based genome editing in the genus Solanum.
Ghosts and teeming worlds
Authors: Bianchetti Cristina
Published: March 2024

The article continues a trajectory of studies performed in the last few years regarding the topic of the body in discourse and urban planning design (Bianchetti. in Bodies between space and design, Jovis, Berlin, 2020, Bianchetti. in “Spazi corpi politiche” dialogue with Simona Forti and Paola Viganò, Biennale Democrazia, Turin, 25 March, Teatro Gobetti, 2023a, Bianchetti. in Le mura di Troia. Lo spazio ricompone i corpi. Donzelli, Rome, 2023b). It takes three books as its focus. The authors are: Colin Rowe and Dennis Hardy, Anthony Vidler, and Antoine Picon. I am personally very attached to these three books and believe they can help understand three different forms of the relationship between spaces and bodies. These forms of the relationship, respectively concern: the recomposition of bodies in space; the transfiguration of space that becomes projection of the neuroses and phobias of those who inhabit it; the tension between materiality and disembodiment. Recomposition, transfiguration, and disembodiment are ways in which spaces and bodies relate to each other. They speak of vulnerability, but also of the power of the body-in-space. The underlying question is: to what extent are urban planning policies and designs able to grasp the irreducibility of bodies? To what extent are they able to overcome the dedifferentiation that has created them for so long? Recomposition, transfiguration and disembodiment force us to reposition our attention beyond the ghost of a pure project, in the fallible and teeming kingdom of the relationships between bodies and spaces. The aim of the article is to highlight fragments of a critical discussion on design based on the complex relations between space, life, bodies and designs.
Blood-based CNS regionally and neuronally enriched extracellular vesicles carrying pTau217 for Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis and differential diagnosis
Authors: Guo Zhen , Tian Chen , Shi Yang , Song Xue-Ru , Yin Wei , Tao Qing-Qing , Liu Jie , Peng Guo-Ping , Wu Zhi-Ying , Wang Yan-Jiang , Zhang Zhen-Xin , Zhang Jing
Published: March 2024

Accurate differential diagnosis among various dementias is crucial for effective treatment of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The study began with searching for novel blood-based neuronal extracellular vesicles (EVs) that are more enriched in the brain regions vulnerable to AD development and progression. With extensive proteomic profiling, GABRD and GPR162 were identified as novel brain regionally enriched plasma EVs markers. The performance of GABRD and GPR162, along with the AD molecule pTau217, was tested using the self-developed and optimized nanoflow cytometry-based technology, which not only detected the positive ratio of EVs but also concurrently presented the corresponding particle size of the EVs, in discovery (n = 310) and validation (n = 213) cohorts. Plasma GABRD+- or GPR162+-carrying pTau217-EVs were significantly reduced in AD compared with healthy control (HC). Additionally, the size distribution of GABRD+- and GPR162+-carrying pTau217-EVs were significantly different between AD and non-AD dementia (NAD). An integrative model, combining age, the number and corresponding size of the distribution of GABRD+- or GPR162+-carrying pTau217-EVs, accurately and sensitively discriminated AD from HC [discovery cohort, area under the curve (AUC) = 0.96; validation cohort, AUC = 0.93] and effectively differentiated AD from NAD (discovery cohort, AUC = 0.91; validation cohort, AUC = 0.90). This study showed that brain regionally enriched neuronal EVs carrying pTau217 in plasma may serve as a robust diagnostic and differential diagnostic tool in both clinical practice and trials for AD.
Combination of a multiplex pneumonia panel and Gram staining for antimicrobial selection to treat lower respiratory tract infection
Authors: Matsuura Hiroshi , Arimoto Koudai , Takahashi Yoshihito , Kishimoto Masafumi
Published: March 2024

Aim

This study aimed to examine the utility of simultaneously performed the Film Array pneumonia panels (pneumonia panels) and Gram staining with the same specimens and evaluate their effect on antimicrobial selection.

Methods

This prospective study, conducted from April 2022 to January 2023, enrolled adult patients with pneumonia, including those with ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). Specimens obtained at the time of sputum culture were tested using Gram staining and the pneumonia panel. The patients’ characteristics and pneumonia panel results were assessed. We also evaluated the selection of antimicrobial agents for drug-resistant bacteria detected by the pneumonia panel.

Results

This study comprised 39 patients: 25 patients (64.1%) underwent intubation, including 7 (17.9%) patients with VAP. Most tests were performed at the time of admission, while some were performed during hospitalization. Good quality sputum was obtained from intubated patients. The pneumonia panel detected drug-resistant bacteria in 12 cases. Six patients required antimicrobial escalation, while the antimicrobial regimen remained unchanged for 2 patients in whom Pseudomonas aeruginosa was detected and had already received meropenem. The attending physician did not change the antimicrobials, considering the results of Gram staining and the patient’s general condition in 4 patients.

Conclusions

The pneumonia panel might be useful for detecting drug-resistant organisms at an early stage. It may be important to take the Gram staining results and the patient’s condition into account with pneumonia panel for appropriate antibiotic prescription.
Brand authenticity influence on young adults’ luxury sneakers brand preference: the mediating role of brand image
Authors: Ligaraba Neo , Cheng Joy , Ndungwane Nompumelelo Fortunate , Nyagadza Brighton
Published: March 2024

It is of interest to examine how consumers perceive luxury brands with the different elements of authenticity, leading to brand image, for companies to create and build a brand that is conducive to influence purchase intention. Through a proposed conceptual research model, brand authenticity and brand image as the predictor variables, with brand preference as the outcome variable, the study investigates the causal relationship of these constructs, where eight (8) determinants of brand authenticity are assessed. Findings of the research support all nine proposed hypotheses, as a result, indicated that brand authenticity and brand image influence consumers’ brand preference. The same model development for the current study can be applied in other geographical zones and in different contexts to prove its generalisability. This study assists fashion marketing practitioners and brand managers to remain sustainable and better identify the factors that influence brand authenticity and brand image on brand preference of luxury sneakers among young adults in South Africa. The rapid globalization and increase in competition has caused a shift in the luxury industry so marketers need to focus on the authenticity of a brand to influence consumers’ brand preference. Theoretically, this study adds to the limited academic literature on the theory of reasoned action and the brand equity theory, with regard to branding.
Lithocodium mound identification using logging-while-drilling image log and quantified cutting analysis — Validation with analogues
Authors: Perrin Christian , Pointer Chay , Al-Mohannadi Ghada , Sen Shantanu , Buraimoh Muse Ajadi
Published: March 2024

Lithocodium mounds are early Cretaceous sedimentary structures described in the literature from outcrops, however, never described in the subsurface. The objective of this work is to identify and characterize Lithocodium mounds in the subsurface along a 25,000 ft horizontal well. Drill cuttings sampled at a 100 ft interval are observed in thin sections to define and quantify key sedimentary indicators (bioclasts, facies, and texture). Logging-while-drilling (LWD) gamma ray (GR), density, neutron, and resistivity logs are acquired along with the LWD high-resolution borehole image (BHI) log. Bedding dips from BHI data, interpreted along the horizontal well, enabled the reconstruction of the reservoir paleotopography. In particular, the alternation of dip azimuth combined with the facies interpretation from the thin sections supported the interpretation of eight distinct mound structures. An assessment of their overall geometry confirmed the mound shape to be subcircular, consistent with the subcircular geometries observed in Oman at the outcrop. The inferred dimensions of the mounds are comparable with the Aptian Lithocodium mounds in Oman (30–40 m), and their intermound organization resembles that of the Albian mounds in Texas. This work demonstrates the value of analyzing cuttings to complement image log interpretation and the value of outcrop analogues for interpreting sedimentary structures. For the first time, the subsurface identification and characterization of Lithocodium mounds and intermounds are achieved.
Development of an Automatic Rule-Based Algorithm for the Detection of Ovarian Cancer Recurrence From Electronic Health Records
Authors: Lee Sanghee , Kim Ji Hyun , Ha Hyeong In , Lim Myong Cheol , Cho Hyunsoon
Published: March 2024

PURPOSE

As the onset of cancer recurrence is not explicitly recorded in the electronic health record (EHR), a high volume of manual chart review is required to detect the cancer recurrence. This study aims to develop an automatic rule-based algorithm for detecting ovarian cancer (OC) recurrence on the basis of minimally preprocessed EHR data.

METHODS

The automatic rule-based recurrence detection algorithm (Auto-Recur), using notes on image reading (positron emission tomography-computed tomography [PET-CT], CT, magnetic resonance imaging [MRI]), biomarker (CA125), and treatment information (surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy), was developed to detect the first OC recurrence. Auto-Recur contains three single algorithms (images, biomarkers, treatments) and hybrid algorithms (combinations of the single algorithms). The performance of Auto-Recur was assessed using sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the recurrence time detected. The recurrence-free survival probabilities were estimated and compared with the retrospective chart review results.

RESULTS

The proposed Auto-Recur considerably reduced human resources and time; it saved approximately 1,340 days when scaled to 100,000 patients compared with the conventional retrospective chart review. The hybrid algorithm on the basis of a combination of image, biomarker, and treatment information was the most efficient (sensitivity: 93.4%, specificity: 97.4%) and precisely captured recurrence time (average time error: 8.5 days). The estimated 3-year recurrence-free survival probability (44%) was close to the estimates by the retrospective chart review (45%, log-rank P value = .894).

CONCLUSION

Our rule-based algorithm effectively captured the first OC recurrence from large-scale EHR while closely approximating the recurrence-free survival estimates obtained by conventional retrospective chart reviews. The study findings facilitate large-scale EHR analysis, enhancing clinical research opportunities.
Probing Majorana bound states via thermoelectric transport
Authors: Benjamin Colin , Das Ritesh
Published: March 2024

We propose a set of thermoelectric experiments based on Aharonov-Bohm interferometry to probe Majorana bound states (MBS), which are generated in 2D topological insulators (TI) in the presence of superconducting and ferromagnetic correlations via the proximity effect. The existence and nature (coupled or uncoupled) of these MBS can be determined by studying the charge and heat transport, specifically, the behavior of various thermoelectric coefficients like the Seebeck coefficient, Peltier coefficient, thermal conductance, and violations of Wiedemann-Franz law as a function of the Fermi energy and Aharonov-Bohm flux piercing the TI ring with the embedded MBS.
Quantum walk of two non-interacting particles on a 2D lattice
Authors: Han Qi , Bai Ning , Wang Shuai , Gou Lijie , Zhang Rong
Published: March 2024

In this paper, it is sufficient to simply tensor the single-particle unitary operator U
1 for the evolution operator U
2 of two particles that do not have interactions. Subsequently, the operator U
1 is diagonalized and the relative distance between two non-interacting particles on the 2D lattice at the moment t is obtained using the distance evolution operator.
The Fold
Authors: Marks Laura U.
Published: March 2024

In The Fold, Laura U. Marks offers a practical philosophy and aesthetic theory for living in an infinitely connected cosmos. Drawing on the theories of Leibniz, Glissant, Deleuze, and theoretical physicist David Bohm—who each conceive of the universe as being folded in on itself in myriad ways—Marks contends that the folds of the cosmos are entirely constituted of living beings. From humans to sandwiches to software to stars, every entity is alive and occupies its own private enclosure inside the cosmos. Through analyses of fiction, documentary, and experimental movies, interactive media, and everyday situations, Marks outlines embodied methods for detecting and augmenting the connections between each living entity and the cosmos. She shows that by affectively mediating with the ever-shifting folded relations within the cosmos, it is possible to build “soul-assemblages” that challenge information capitalism, colonialism, and other power structures and develop new connections with the infinite. With this guide for living within the enfolded and unfolding cosmos, Marks teaches readers to richly apprehend the world and to trace the processes of becoming that are immanent within the fold.
First record of the fountain bladder snail Physa fontinalis (Linnaeus, 1758) (Gastropoda: Hygrophila) in Morocco
Authors: Mabrouki Youness , Taybi Fouzi Abdelkhaleq , Glöer Peter
Published: March 2024

Alien and invasive species pose a significant threat to global biodiversity, causing costly economic and environmental damage. Recent field surveys in northern Morocco have led to the discovery of the fountain bladder snail Physa fontinalis (Linnaeus, 1758), providing the first evidence of its occurrence in North Africa. The exotic species is currently only known from one locality in Morocco, future surveys may reveal its presence elsewhere. It is essential to monitor its spread within invaded areas and conduct studies to improve our understanding of its biology, ecology, and potential impact on native communities in North African freshwaters.
Cechy teksturalne osadów korytowych Wilgi (Polska Południowa) jako odzwierciedlenie zróżnicowania struktury koryta i źródeł dostawy materiału do systemu fluwialnego
Authors: Gołąb Agata , Piątek Dawid , Michno Anna
Published: March 2024

Wykształcenie i funkcjonowanie koryt rzecznych uwarunkowane jest cechami środowiska przyrodniczego zlewni oraz antropopresją. Uwarunkowania te mają zasadnicze znaczenie w kształtowaniu cech osadów aluwialnych. Głównym celem badań było poznanie zróżnicowania cech teksturalnych współczesnych osadów korytowych Wilgi w nawiązaniu do zróżnicowania struktury jej koryta oraz źródeł dostawy materiału do systemu fluwialnego. Scharakteryzowano strukturę koryta Wilgi ze szczególnym uwzględnieniem rozmieszczenia i cech form akumulacyjnych oraz erozyjnych. Na czterech stanowiskach badawczych, powiązanych z różnymi źródłami dostawy, określono uziarnienie osadów korytowych, ich skład petrograficzny i stopień obróbki. Uzyskane wyniki pokazały zróżnicowanie źródeł dostawy materiału wzdłuż profilu podłużnego koryta. W pogórskim odcinku źródłami dostawy są podcięcia erozji bocznej oraz progi w dnie koryta. Materiał aluwialny w korycie jest ostrokrawędzisty i grubofrakcyjny. W niżej położonej części zlewni, do koryta dostarczany jest materiał drobnoziarnisty budujący szerokie, płaskie dno doliny. Stwierdzono również, że wzdłuż profilu podłużnego koryta największym zmianom ulega uziarnienie oraz stopień obróbki materiału, w mniejszym stopniu skład petrograficzny.
Design and implementation of machine learning algorithms in big biomedical data
Authors: Αναγνώστου Παναγιώτης
Published: March 2024

Η Μηχανική Μάθηση (ΜΜ) είναι ένα κρίσιμο εργαλείο για την ανάλυση μεγάλων βιοϊατρικών δεδομένων που βασίζεται στη θεμελιώδη αρχή ότι η ποιότητα των δεδομένων καθορίζει την αποτελεσματικότητα των αναλυτικών αποτελεσμάτων. Η παρούσα έρευνα υπογραμμίζει τη σημασία της σχολαστικής συλλογής και προεπεξεργασίας δεδομένων, με έμφαση στην ακρίβεια, για την υποστήριξη της αξιοπιστίας των εφαρμογών ΜΜ. Αντιμετωπίζει τα κρίσιμα ζητήματα των ελλιπών πληροφοριών, των ανωμαλιών, των επικαλύψεων και των οριακών περιπτώσεων, όλα κρίσιμα για την προετοιμασία των συνόλων δεδομένων για ολοκληρωμένη ανάλυση. Στη συνέχεια, η έμφαση μετατοπίζεται στην τέχνη και την επιστήμη της προεπεξεργασίας δεδομένων, με τη συγκέντρωση, τη δειγματοληψία, τη μείωση της διαστατικότητας, την επιλογή χαρακτηριστικών και τη μηχανική να αναδεικνύονται ως βασικές τεχνικές για τη μετατροπή των ακατέργαστων δεδομένων σε δομημένες μορφές κατάλληλες για προηγμένους αλγορίθμους ΜΜ. Αυτά τα προκαταρκτικά βήματα είναι κρίσιμα για την αξιοποίηση της μάθησης συνόλων, η οποία αναδεικνύεται ως ισχυρή στρατηγική για τη βελτίωση της απόδοσης των μοντέλων. Η μάθηση συνόλου, η οποία συνδυάζει πολλαπλά μοντέλα πρόβλεψης, προτείνεται ως ένας τρόπος βελτίωσης της ακρίβειας και της ευρωστίας, ιδίως στο πλαίσιο πολύπλοκων συνόλων Μεγάλων Βιοϊατρικών δεδομένων. Η παρούσα εργασία διερευνά τη βελτιστοποίηση των επιδόσεων των νευρωνικών δικτύων και παρουσιάζει ταξινομητές συνόλου με βάση την προβολή με ψήφιση νευρωνικών δικτύων. Η πρακτική εφαρμογή αυτών των εννοιών επιδεικνύεται μέσω της εισαγωγής μιας εργαλειοθήκης ιεραρχικής διαχωριστικής ομαδοποίησης, η οποία αποτελεί παράδειγμα της αποτελεσματικής χρήσης μεθόδων συνόλου βασισμένων στην προβολή για εξελιγμένες εργασίες ομαδοποίησης και ταξινόμησης. Οι μεθοδολογίες και τα εργαλεία που παρουσιάζονται παρέχουν μια ολοκληρωμένη στρατηγική για την αξιοποίηση της πολυπλοκότητας των μεγάλων βιοϊατρικών δεδομένων, με στόχο τη βελτίωση των αναλυτικών δυνατοτήτων σε αυτόν τον τομέα.