bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abundance, Distribution, and Diversity of Freshwater Snail and Prevalences of Their Infection by Cercaria of Fasciola gigantica and Schistosoma spp at Mayo-Vreck River, Far North Region of Cameroon
Authors: Siama Augustin , Eteme Enama Serges , Kalmobe Justin , Abah Samuel , Foutchou Angele , Njan Nloga Alexandre Michel
Published: October 2023

Malacological and parasitological studies were conducted from April 2020 to March 2021 to determine the abundance and distribution of molluscs and cercariae of Schistosoma spp and Fasciola gigantica. Collected molluscs are exposed to strong light to induce cercarial release. Mollusc densities were higher at station 1 (Gamak) than in station 8 (Patakai), with Bellamya unicolor and Biomphalaria pfeifferi more abundant and Bulinus truncatus, B. tropicus, and B. globosus less abundant. The overall prevalence of cercariae (19.87%) is higher in station 3 (Yaye orchard), station 9 (Gougni), station 4 (Madiogo), station 5 (Madiogo pasture), and station 6 (Ziam 3). It varies significantly between 15.76% in station 8 and 25.77% in station 3, between 8.48% in B. truncatus and 25.53% in B. globosus, and between 19.27% for cercariae of Schistosoma spp and 21.60% for those of F. gigantica. Cercarial emissions in L. natalensis and B. pfeifferi were higher in hot and cold dry seasons; on the other hand, cercarial emissions in B. globosus were higher in hot dry seasons (31.48%) and rainy seasons (23.38%). Emissions of cercariae from S. haematobium are related to areas of human activity and defecation, while those of F. gigantica in L. natalensis, Schistosoma haematobium in B. tropicus, and S. mansoni in B. pfeifferi are related to grazing areas. Mayo-Vreck is a site that favors the endemicity of fascioliasis and human schistosomiasis.
FIGURE 2 from Immune Cell Abundance and T-cell Receptor Landscapes Suggest New Patient Stratification Strategies in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Secrier Maria , McGrath Lara , Ng Felicia , Gulati Sakshi , Raymond Amelia , Nuttall Barrett R. B. , Berthe Julie , Jones Emma V. , Sidders Ben S. , Galon Jérôme , Barrett J. Carl , Angell Helen K.
Published: October 2023

Genomic processes in the HNSCC cohort. A, Driver genes recurrently altered (by SNV/indel) in more than 10% of the samples are shown, along with key clinical (HPV status, stage) and molecular characteristics (immunity subgroup). The bar plots display the total number of mutations per gene (rows) and sample (columns), respectively, across the cohort. B, The pattern of mutational probabilities for the 96 base substitution contexts characterizing the mutational signatures SBS2 and SBS13, showing distinct prevalence across immunity subgroups, is displayed. C, The SBS signatures associated with mutational processes 2 and 13 from the COSMIC database, linked with AID/APOBEC activity, show differing contributions of mutations by immunity subgroup, with an increase in the PC rich subgroup (boxplot subgroup colors as in A). **, P < 0.01; *, P < 0.05; ns, nonsignificant (P > 0.05).
Histological Phenotyping in Eosinophilic Esophagitis: Localized Proximal Disease Is Infrequent but Associated with Less Severe Disease and Better Disease Outcome
Authors: Heil Alexis , Kuehlewindt Tobias , Godat Anne , Simon Hans-Uwe , Simon Dagmar , Schreiner Philipp , Saner Catherine , Vavricka Stephan R. , Biedermann Luc , Safroneeva Ekaterina , Rossel Jean-Benoit , Limacher Andreas , Straumann Alex , Schoepfer Alain M. , Greuter Thomas
Published: October 2023

Introduction: It is still unknown whether eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) patients with localized disease are different from those with extended disease. Methods: We evaluated prospectively included patients in the Swiss EoE cohort. Data on all patients with active disease at baseline, no concomitant gastroesophageal reflux disease, no strictures at baseline, and at least one follow-up visit were analyzed. We compared patients with histologically localized proximal versus distal versus extended (=proximal and distal) disease with regard to patient, disease characteristics, disease presentation, and development of complications. Results: We included 124 patients with a median of 2.5 years of follow-up (73.4% males, median age 35.0 years). Ten patients had proximal (8.1%), 46 patients had distal (37.1%), and 68 patients had extended disease (54.8%). Patients with proximal disease were significantly more often females (80%) compared with patients with distal (26.1%, p = 0.002) or extended disease (19.1%, p < 0.001) and reported less severe symptoms (VAS 0 vs. VAS 1, p = 0.001). Endoscopic and histological disease was less pronounced in the proximal esophagus of proximal EoE compared to extended disease (EREFS 1.0 vs. 3.0, p = 0.001; 27.0 eos/hpf vs. 52.5 eos/hpf, p = 0.008). Patients with proximal disease were less likely to undergo dilation compared to patients with distal disease in the follow-up (3.3% vs. 23.3%, p = 0.010). In a multivariate Cox regression model, proximal eosinophilia was less likely to be associated with treatment failure compared to distal eosinophilia. Conclusion: Although isolated proximal EoE is infrequent, it is associated with less severe disease and better disease outcome. Proximal disease appears to present a unique EoE phenotype.
Detecting a Novel NOTCH3 Variant in Patients with Suspected CADASIL: A Single Center Study
Authors: Şanli Zeynep Selcan , Anlaş Özlem
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL) is the most common form of familial cerebral small vessel disease in adults and is caused by NOTCH3 variants. Clinical manifestations of CADASIL include recurrent ischemic strokes, dementia, migraine or migraineous headaches, epileptic seizures, and psychiatric disorders. The clinical-radiological phenotype of the disease is also highly variable. In this study, we investigated the variability of clinical, radiological, and genetic data in patients analyzed for NOTCH3 variant in our clinic. Methods: We performed clinical and neuropsychological examination, cerebral magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and Doppler sonography of cerebral arteries in all patients. Next-generation sequencing test was used for detect variants in NOTCH3 gene from all CADASIL patients. Results: By using the next-generation sequencing method, heterozygous c.380C>T pathogenic variant was detected in the 4th exon of the NOTCH3 gene in 3 patients. This is a previously unreported novel variant and resulted in the replacement of the amino acid Proline at 127th position with Leucine. Discussion and Conclusion: The discovery of this novel pathogenic variant region may contribute to the expansion of the clinical and genetic spectrum of diseases associated with NOTCH3, leading to further research and treatment options for this disease in the future.
Ontogenetic and cohort estimates of tadpole survival for the threatened Betic midwife toad (Alytes dickhilleni) in two contrasting small waterbodies
Authors: Guerrero-Gómez Adrián , Torralva Mar , Oliva-Paterna Francisco José , Zamora-Marín José Manuel
Published: October 2023

Comprehensive knowledge on demographic parameters and early life history traits is essential for an effective amphibian management and conservation. Here, we assessed tadpole survival of Alytes dickhilleni in two contrasting small waterbodies (natural pool vs man-made drinking trough). For the first time in the genus Alytes, tadpole survival was quantified at ontogenetic and cohort level. Overall, low survival values were reported for both study sites, being values in the natural pool (0.16) twice than in the man-made drinking trough (0.07). Ontogenetic and cohort variation was congruent between both study sites, with survival rates decreasing in intermediate developmental stages, and highest values being observed in overwintering as compared to summer tadpoles. Owing to the ongoing decline in Alytes populations, these results can be particularly useful for informing future conservation schemes based on tadpole translocation or reintroduction from wild populations.
Pathogenicity and boarding ability of hybrid-derived populations between Bursaphelenchus xylophilus and B. mucronatus (Nematoda: Aphelenchoididae)
Authors: Togashi Katsumi , Kasuga Hayami , Kasuga Satomi , Matsunaga Koji , Jikumaru Shota
Published: October 2023

The pine wood nematode, Bursaphelenchus xylophilus (Steiner et Buhrer), is the causative agent of pine wilt disease. It is native to North America and has been devastating pine forests in East Asia and West Europe since its introduction. The pathogenic nematode is transmitted by cerambycid beetle adults of Monochamus alternatus Hope in East Asia and M. galloprovincialis (Olivier) in West Europe. Bursaphelenchus mucronatus Mamiya et Enda is widely distributed in Eurasia and has no or little pathogenicity to pine species. If hybrids between the two species are backcrossed with B. xylophilus nematodes repeatedly, a small proportion of B. mucronatus genes will be infused into B. xylophilus genome (introgression) and may lead to adaptation to locally harsh environments. Inoculation tests in this study revealed that two of eight hybrid-derived populations from crossing B. xylophilus and B. mucronatus caused pine seedling mortalities of 36-70%. The pathogenic hybrid-derived populations carried nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA) of two species and B. xylophilus extra-nuclear genes, whereas non-pathogenic populations carried B. mucronatus rDNA and extranuclear genes of B. xylophilus or B. mucronatus. Thus, it is inferred that a gene or genes associated with pathogenicity are present in the nuclear genome of B. xylophilus. A laboratory experiment revealed that the pathogenic hybrid-derived population had as great an ability to board M. alternatus adults as the parental-lineage B. xylophilus isolate. Thus, the introgressive hybridisation is considered to occur in pine forests if two species cohabit in host trees.
The neglected role of ciliates as bioindicators
Authors: Mandal Fatik Baran
Published: October 2023

The impacts of anthropogenic synthetic contaminants are becoming a serious concern, primarily due to their harmful effects on human health and adverse effects on ecosystems, biodiversity, and human well-being. Of more than 100 million chemicals, ~0.36% are regularised, as recorded in the Chemical Abstracts Registry database. Such chemicals ultimately contaminate water bodies and reduce the amount of potable water. It is estimated that about 50% of the human population will suffer from water shortages by 2025 if the present trend continues. Gause’s classical work in population ecology stimulated interest in working with ciliates as model organisms in ecotoxicology. Ciliates are good indicators for assessing saprobic water quality due to their abundance, ubiquity, and sensitivity to anthropogenic impacts. However, although more than 50 ciliate species are now in use as bioindicators, researchers should attempt to utilize the excellent potential of ciliates as bioindicators in large-scale studies, considering their availability and cost-effectiveness. Any change in the community composition of ciliates in response to environmental shifts is a powerful tool for biomonitoring and bioassessment.
Cordiaceae wood from the Miocene sediments of northeast India and its phytogeographical significance
Authors: Bhatia Harshita , Srivastava Gaurav , Mehrotra R.C.
Published: October 2023

The order Boraginales of the Lamiids clade encompasses a diverse group of plants that currently has a global distribution. Its fossil record is scanty. Herein we report a fossil wood of Cordia L. of the family Cordiaceae from the Tipam Sandstone (late Miocene) sediments of Assam, northeast India. This finding not only throws light on the phytogeography and diversification of the Cordiaceae, but also provides valuable insights into the Neogene vegetation of the region.
Current Effect on Wave Condition around Island in the South China Sea
Authors: Wang Zhen , Chen Yini , Liu Liangyu , Yuan Hao , Zou Li
Published: October 2023

Currents have a significant impact on wave parameters around islands. In this study, high-resolution unsteady current simulations based on island geography and wind fields from Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model are used as input sources. The wave action balance model uses an unstructured grid to assess the wave conditions in the Atoll during Typhoon Noul. The characteristic wave parameters, with and without the effect of currents, are compared with the field observation data, including significant wave height, wave period, and the spatial distribution of significant wave height. The results show that simulated significant wave heights and wave periods are close to observed data, considering the effect of currents. The energy and shape of the spectrum are also verified during Typhoon Noul, and the observed agreement is improved when considering the currents. The effects of current within the Atoll are relatively weaker compared to the surroundings, while stronger current effects are observed in the deeper water outside the Atoll. Refraction caused by current expands the area of moderate sea state behind the island.

Significance Statement

Several innovations of this article are as follows: 1) the influence of currents on wave conditions at the Atoll; 2) exploring the impact of currents using key parameters, such as significant wave height, wave period, and wave spectrum, especially during the passage of Typhoon Noul; 3) swell emerges as the dominant factor influencing wave conditions as the center of Typhoon Noul gradually moves away; and 4) refraction caused by current expands the area of moderate sea state behind the island.
Toward a Decentered Music Education Using a Rhizomatic Approach
Authors: Yoo Hyesoo
Published: October 2023

As we work to connect equity to our curriculum and pedagogy, a rhizomatic approach may provide a valuable lens for reconsidering traditional conventions. Such an approach underlines interconnected multiplicity with a noncentered, nonhierarchical emphasis. Applying a rhizomatic method, I offer music teachers some practical applications to challenge conventional curricular tendencies in subtle but important ways. Instead of using an additive approach to the Western classical canon, this approach helps to engage in music comparatively or relationally, which can enable teachers and students to think broadly across categories by recognizing the interconnections between musics. More important, lessons adopting a rhizomatic approach may help teachers and students consider all musics as bearers of equal status and honor many diverse forms of music.
Bilingual Cigarette Warning Labels: Effects on Young People's Recall and Attention in Lebanon
Authors: Jalal Eddine Reem , Moacdieh Nadine Marie
Published: October 2023

The goal was to determine the effects of bilingual cigarette warning labels on the recall performance and attention of young bilingual Lebanese college students. Forty-eight students were shown English-only, Arabic-only, or bilingual cigarette warning labels in 2020. Participants recalled as many of the labels as they could after the experiment and then two weeks later. Eye tracking was used to determine attention to the label and subjective data were collected. Results showed that bilingual labels did not lead to better recall; participants needed more time to extract data from bilingual labels and first looked at them later in time, although bilingual labels were revisited more. However, participants believed that bilingual labels were better. It appeared that bilingual labels led to clutter rather than helped recall.
Long-term outcomes of patients bridged to recovery with venoarterial extracorporeal life support
Authors: Dardik Gabriel , Ning Yuming , Kurlansky Paul , Almodovar Cruz Guillermo , Vinogradsky Alice , Fried Justin , Topkara Veli K , Takeda Koji
Published: October 2023

Objective

Our study examines the long-term outcomes of patients discharged from the hospital without heart replacement therapy (HRT) after recovery from cardiogenic shock using venoarterial extracorporeal life support (VA-ECLS).

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 615 cardiogenic shock patients who recovered from VA-ECLS at our institution between January 2015 and July 2021. Of those, 166 patients (27.0%) who recovered from VA-ECLS without HRT were included in this study. Baseline characteristics, discharge labs, vitals, electrocardiograms and echocardiograms were assessed. Patients were contacted to determine vital status. The primary outcome was post-discharge mortality.

Results

Of 166 patients, 158 patients (95.2%) had post-discharge follow-up, with a median time of follow-up of 2 years (IQR: [1 year, 4 years]). At discharge, the median ejection fraction (EF) was 52.5% (IQR: [32.5, 57.5]). At discharge, 92 patients (56%) were prescribed β-blockers, 28 (17%) were prescribed an ACE inhibitor, ARB or ARNI, and 50 (30%) were prescribed loop diuretics. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed a 1-year survival rate of 85.6% (95% CI: [80.1%, 91.2%]) and a 5-year survival rate of 60.6% (95% CI: [49.9%, 71.3%]). A Cox regression model demonstrated that a history of congestive heart failure (CHF) was strongly predictive of increased mortality hazard (HR = 1.929; p = 0.036), while neither discharge EF nor etiology of VA-ECLS were associated with increased post-discharge mortality.

Conclusions

Patients discharged from the hospital after full myocardial recovery from VA-ECLS support without HRT should have close outpatient follow-up due to the risk of recurrent heart failure and increased mortality in these patients.
Social Factors and Older Adults’ Use of Wearable Activity Trackers: Before and During the First Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Li Mengchi , Huang Jing , Budhathoki Chakra , Li Qiwei , Samuel Laura , Szanton Sarah L. , Schrack Jennifer A. , Li Junxin
Published: October 2023

Wearable activity trackers (WAT) have shown high potential to improve health in the aging population. Evidence links various social factors with WAT use in older adults, but mainly within small samples and the prevalence of their WAT use during the COVID-19 is unknown. We reported WAT use prevalence before and during the first wave of COVID-19 and examined social factors associated with WAT use frequency using a nationally representative sample of 3302 U.S. older adults. We used Multinomial Logistic Regression to identify social factors associated with WAT use frequency. Only 10.3% of pre-COVID-19 and 10.9% of first-wave subsamples were frequent WAT users. Older adults aged 75 and above and those with low incomes were less likely to frequently use WATs. Our findings suggest socioeconomic and age disparities in WAT use among older Americans. Future studies should focus on enhancing low-income older adults’ WAT adoption to enable equal access to WAT-related health benefits.
Associations of semen quality with pyrethroids in semen and urine samples of men with oligozoospermia: A cross-sectional study in Samsun, Turkey
Authors: Alagöz Murat , Yazar Selma , Secilmis Canbay Hale , Acıkgöz Abdullah , Corba Burcin S
Published: October 2023

Pyrethroids (PYRs) may act as endocrine disrupters and lead to infertility. The aim of the study was to analyze the levels of anti-androgenic PYRs (cypermethrin, deltamethrin, and permethrin) and 3-phenoxy benzoic acid (3-PBA), a general metabolite of PYRs, in both semen and urine samples of men with oligozoospermia. The PYRs and 3-PBA metabolite levels in the semen and urine samples of the men were analyzed through GC-MS. The results indicated that the levels of PYRs in the semen samples of the infertile group were significantly higher than those of the fertile group. It was determined that cypermethrin exposure was associated with changes in sperm count and total sperm motility, while permethrin, deltamethrin, and 3-PBA levels were associated with changes in sperm morphology. It was determined that there was a significant negative correlation between semen deltamethrin levels and sperm morphology and sperm count. In addition, exposure of these patients to deltamethrin (range; 1.53–8.02 µg/l) and having farmer parents were determined to increase the risk of infertility. In conclusion, the findings of this study showed that exposure to environmental PYRs may adversely affect semen quality, especially in terms of sperm morphology, in men with oligozoospermia.
Polyimide aerogels with low thermal conductivity and high-temperature stable properties prepared by lyophilization for flexible thermal protection
Authors: Xu Bing , Zhang Zhipeng , Liang Hongtan , Hu Jie , Chen Lixiang , Wang Zhen , Chai Bo , Fan Guozhi
Published: October 2023

Polyimide aerogel, presenting an outstanding new material for lightweight protective thermal insulation, has garnered significant attention in the aerospace field. Despite its potential, due to the high production cost of the supercritical drying method used for its preparation, its widespread application is limited. In this research, a series of lightweight polyimide aerogels (F-PIAs, 3,3',4,4'-biphenyl tetracarboxylic dianhydride (s-BPDA) and 4,4'-diaminodiphenyl ether (ODA)) with excellent thermal protection properties were prepared by lyophilization. The findings indicated that F-PIAs (Freeze-dried polyimide aerogels) exhibited comparable physical characteristics to S-PIAs (Supercritical-dried polyimide aerogels), while their preparation cost was even more economical. F-PIAs exhibits excellent flexible and compression behavior (compression strength up to 1.16 MPa, modulus up to 12.8 MPa), which provide a great structural basis for the production of molded thermal insulation protective materials. The average pore diameter of F-PIAs is in the range of 7∼11 nm. The nanoporous structure leads to the gas within the pores of the aerogel producing the Knudsen effect, thereby significantly enhancing the thermal insulation performance of the aerogel. The thermal conductivity of F-PIA-4 (Freeze-dried polyimide aerogels with a solid content of 4%) at room temperature is as low as 0.023 W·m−1·K−1, which is superior to the PIAs (0.043 W·m−1·K−1) prepared by lyophilization in literature. Its thermal diffusion coefficient changes from 0.108 mm2·s−1 to 0.18 mm2·s−1 in the temperature range of 27°C to 200°C, demonstrating good thermal insulation performance at high temperatures. Meanwhile, after heating on a 150°C flat plate for 11 min and 41 s, the surface temperature of F-PIA-4 was only 36.2°C, further verifying its excellent thermal insulation performance. The results of the TGA experiment on F-PIA-4 demonstrated the high-temperature stability of aerogel (Td5% is higher than 523°C, Td10% is higher than 566°C). The exceptional properties of F-PIAs hold significant practical reference value in helping to reduce the manufacturing cost of high-performance aerogel thermal insulation materials, thereby enabling their widespread application in aerospace, military, and civil field.
In vitro evaluation of temperature change on the root surface after the removal of root canal filling
Authors: Kagan Bas Muhammed , Meva Durmazpinar Parla , Betul Basturk Fatima , Sazak Ovecoglu Hesna
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to compare the temperature changes occurring on the root surfaces after the removal of root canal filling with two different root canal sealers by two different reciprocating files. Sixty extracted teeth with a single root and canal were used in this study. After chemomechanical preparation, the root canals in the experimental groups were filled with gutta-percha and AH Plus or CeraSeal, while those of the control groups were filled with gutta-percha only. Resiproc or WaveOne Gold were used for the removal of the root canal filling. Temperature changes in the middle and apical third of the root surface were recorded by a thermal camera at different time intervals. Among the groups using the same sealer, the temperature rise observed on the root surface at the end of 90 s in the Resiproc groups was found to be significantly higher than that of the WaveOne Gold groups.
Book review: B. S. Sherin, Gendering Minorities: Muslim Women and the Politics of Modernity
Authors: Borker Hem
Published: October 2023

B. S. Sherin, Gendering Minorities: Muslim Women and the Politics of Modernity. Orient BlackSwan, 2021, 240 pages, ₹615 (Hardbound). ISBN: 978-93-5287-669-3.
Population Control and Eugenics: Dhanvanthi Rama Rau and Margaret Sanger in the Making of India’s Family Planning Programme, 1930s–1960s
Authors: Parmar Daksha , Rao Mohan
Published: October 2023

This article explores the contribution of two pioneering women, Dhanvanthi Rama Rau and Margaret Sanger in shaping the official Family Planning Programme (FPP) of India. Rau, popularly known as the ‘Mother of India’s Family Planning’, was at the forefront of the debates on birth control. From the early twentieth century, Rau was in correspondence with Margaret Sanger—eugenist and the messiah of medicalised birth control from the United States of America (USA). Based on archival collections from various libraries in India and the USA, this article attempts to explore the concerns of Rau and Sanger in raising questions about population control 1 and family planning in India. The concern of improving the health of mothers and children was, for them, a scaffolding on which to build the agenda of population control. As their advocacy of contraception was shaped by eugenic 2 and neo-Malthusian ideas, they were successful in institutionalising a programme of family planning that called for an immediate reduction in the birth rate. This was to be achieved through gendered population control policies and practices.
Tunneled hemodialysis central venous catheters prevalence and bloodstream infection rates in Northern Italy: A survey of the “East Lombardy Nephrological Network”
Authors: Mandolfo Salvatore , Possenti Stefano , Lucca Bernardo , Bracchi Martina , Bove Sergio , Bertelli Cesare , Costantino Ester , Alberici Federico
Published: October 2023

Background:

Tunneled central venous catheter (tCVCs) is a vascular access frequently employed in hemodialysis patients. Catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSI) are potentially life-threatening complications.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective survey regarding tCVCs prevalence as well as the CRBSI incidence and management within five hospitals in the Brescia province belonging to the “East Lombardy Nephrological Network”; this study was based upon 18 queries regarding the years 2020 and 2021.

Results:

The data collected refer to an overall hemodialysis population of 736 patients in 2020 and 745 patients in 2021. The prevalence of tCVCs was respectively 22.1% and 24.2% with the initial placement being performed with fluoroscopy support in 80% of the centers. CRBSI incidence was respectively 0.88 and 0.77 episodes per 1000 days of tCVC use. When the CRBI was caused by Staphylococcus Aureus (SA) or Pseudomonas, differently from the recommendation of the KDOQI guidelines, the removal or the substitution of the tCVC did not occur immediately at the time of the diagnosis of the infection but only when the specific antibiotic therapy failed. A nose swab aimed at identifying SA carriers was performed in 60% of centers. The policy regarding the referral to other specialists (infectious disease specialist and microbiologist) was heterogenous across the centers according to their specific logistics.

Conclusions:

This retrospective survey performed by the “East Lombardy Nephrological Network” within the Brescia province describes the prevalence of tCVCs use as well as the incidence and management of CRBSIs in the hemodialysis patients of this area. The clinical impact of the differences in terms of clinical approach detected compared to the KDOQI guidelines will need to be clarified ideally in prospective studies.
Assessment of Hepatic Lesions After non-Thermal Tumor Ablation by Irreversible Electroporation in a Pig Model
Authors: Jeon Sung-Min , Davaa Enkhzaya , Jiang Yixin , Jenjob Ratchapol , Truong Ngoc-Thuan , Shin Kyung-Ju , Jeong Seok , Yang Su-Geun
Published: October 2023

Irreversible electroporation (IRE) is a non-thermal and minimal invasive modality to ablate pathologic lesions such as hepatic tumors. Histological analysis of the initial lesions after IRE can help predict ablation efficacy. We aimed to investigate the histological characteristics of early hepatic lesions after IRE application using animal models. IRE (1500 V/cm, a pulse length of 100 μs, 60 or 90 pulses) was applied to the liver of miniature pigs. H&E and TUNEL staining were performed and analyzed. Ablated zones of pig liver were discolored and separated from the normal zone after IRE. Histologic characteristics of ablation zones included preserved hepatic lobular architecture with a unique hexagonal-like structure. Apoptotic cells were detected, and sinusoidal dilatation and blood congestion were observed, but hepatic arteries and bile ducts were intact around the ablation zones. The early lesions obtained by delivering monophasic square wave pulses through needle electrodes reflected typical histological changes induced by IRE. Therefore, it was found that the histological assessment of the early hepatic lesion after IRE can be utilized to predict the IRE ablation effect.
Double Outlet of Both Ventricles With an Unusual Relationship of the Great Arteries
Authors: Yadav Mayank , Rabbani Syed Shamayal , Kidwai Mohammad Moaaz , Abqari Shaad , Anderson Robert H. , Haseen Mohammad Azam
Published: October 2023

Double outlet both ventricles (DOBV) is a rare form of ventriculo-arterial connection wherein the outlet septum is perpendicular to the crest of the apical muscular ventricular septum, thus committing both arterial roots equally to both ventricles. The anomaly has been described in very few reports, with clinical reports being even rarer. We report perhaps the first case of DOBV in which the relationship of the arterial roots themselves is discordant relative to the ventricular topology.
Engineering Graduate Students’ Attitudes Towards Social Justice
Authors: McCallum Mariah , Barlow Hailey , Ma Jiahui , Godwin Ian , McCrory Bernadette
Published: October 2023

In post-secondary education engineers are not formally introduced to socially just engineering. This education focuses on technical expertise, often overlooking the social impacts of engineering outputs. Using essay prompts graduate school applicants’ views were assessed on social justice. Odds ratios and Chi-Square analyses were used to associate views on social justice and self-perceived programmatic competencies. While applicants were aware of social justice issues, their main reason for applying was to further career goals. Nearly forty percent of essays suggested that engineers are responsible for optimizing systems and mentioned the department’s inclusive design competencies 33 times. Even though most applicants reported interest in management systems, roughly 31.1% of applications advocated for systems thinking to be the primary social justice mechanism. When prompted, 96.2% of respondents reported that engineers should have a professional and ethical responsibility. Increasing exposure to socially just engineering is critical in producing holistically minded engineers.
Co-Designing an Accessible Gym: Inviting ‘Others’ to the Public
Authors: Hong San , Park Junhong , Park Woojin
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to explore the experience of co-designing an accessible gym at Seoul National University. A team of six members engaged in three workshop sessions to create a more accessible environment for people with diverse disabilities. Three themes emerged from the qualitative analysis of the co-design experience. The study’s results highlighted the need to co-create products and environments with people with lived experience to ensure accessibility inclusive of people with various physical conditions. Also, the co-design process was found to help the design team members with disabilities perceive themselves as capable of exerting power over their environment.
Challenges and Lessons Learned for Conducting Usability Evaluations in Applied Military Research Environments
Authors: Rickel Emily , Anania Emily C. , Atkinson Beth F. Wheeler , Chaparro Barbara S.
Published: October 2023

Conducting usability evaluations in applied military environments is notably different from traditional usability testing, as such environments pose restrictions on when, where, and how testing is conducted. In addition, specialized experience needed from military personnel pose challenges to recruitment and obtaining sufficient time with representative end users. This paper will discuss some challenges and lessons learned for consideration before, during, and after usability assessment data collection. Main recommendations include: recruiting experts qualified to provide feedback that aligns with the purpose of the evaluation; developing a flexible research protocol to allow for the maximum participation possible from any and all involved; and conducting domain research to supplement the researchers’ own knowledge base to minimize reliance on SMEs. Finally, it is important to carefully document not only results, but knowledge and experience gained from specific efforts in order to assist future researchers in conducting work with similar systems.
Cognitive Processing Disruptions Affecting Flight Deck Performance: Implications for Cognitive Resilience
Authors: Holley Sam , Miller Mark
Published: October 2023

The flight deck of a commercial aircraft has become progressively digitized and operates in multiple modes with displays and indicators that require increasing levels of comprehension. Examining several aspects of cognitive processing is important to understand how threats to safety might occur and what actions might be taken to reduce severity or to eliminate the threat altogether. This paper presents the elements of cognition to consider, relevant characteristics of working memory and cognitive processing speed, types of disruptions and how they are addressed, results from overload or confusion, and the need for effective cognitive resilience to recover and repair the threat. Data from Aviation Safety Reporting System (ASRS) databases indicate 30% of cases could represent a distinct threat of cognitive overload. These are evaluated to identify sources and likelihood for surprise disruptions and to assess the potential of cognitive resilience. Adaptation of the CRM-TEM model is considered for potential application in training and investigations.
Primary Total Shoulder Arthroplasty is Superior to Hemiarthroplasty for the Treatment of Glenohumeral Arthritis: Analysis of 5-year Outcomes in a Large Surgical Database
Authors: Long Jason , Varshenya Kunal , Blevins Kier , Ralph Julia , Bryniarski Anna , Park Caroline , Meyer Lucy , Lau Brian
Published: October 2023

Background

Total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) is the preferred treatment for glenohumeral arthritis refractory to nonoperative measures. However, some surgeons have argued for a role for hemiarthroplasty (HA) in the setting of a smooth glenoid that articulates appropriately with the humeral head. The purpose of this study is to evaluate long-term revision rates and short-term postoperative complications in patients undergoing either HA or TSA for glenohumeral arthritis.

Methods

A retrospective review of patients who underwent HA and TSA was conducted using a commercially available national database. Demographics, postoperative complications, risk factors, revision rates, and costs were analyzed using 2 sample t-tests, chi-squared tests, and multivariate logistic regressions.

Results

Patients were stratified by operation: (1) HA (n = 1615) or 2) TSA (n = 7845). Patients undergoing primary TSA had higher rates of prior ipsilateral rotator cuff repair and corticosteroid injections. At 2 years, patients who underwent HA, 3.0% of patients had revision surgery, compared to 1.6% of patients who underwent TSA ( P = .002); at 5 years, 3.7% of the HA cohort ( P < .0001) had revision surgery, compared to 1.9% of patients who underwent TSA.

Conclusions

Patients undergoing TSA or RTSA for glenohumeral arthritis had higher preoperative co-morbidities but had no difference in short-term complication rates with a lower risk of revision surgery at both 2-year and 5-year follow-up when compared to HA. Increasing age, female sex, hyperlipidemia, postoperative infection, shoulder instability, and thromboembolism all independently increased odds for revision shoulder arthroplasty for glenohumeral arthritis.

Level of evidence: Level

III.
Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy in Prostate Cancer: Where Do We Stand?
Authors: Talapatra Kaustav , G Kiron , Mohan Amrutha , Bardeskar Nikhil , Tongaonkar Hemant
Published: October 2023

Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) is an important option for prostate cancer treatment. It involves the delivery of a high dose of radiation to the malignant tissue without affecting the neighboring healthy tissue to achieve a high therapeutic index. As the cells of prostate cancer are radiobiologically similar to a late-responding tissue with a low 𝛼/𝛽 ratio, the dose escalation approach has a better disease control probability than conventional dose fractionation. Therefore, considering the availability of intensity-modulated RT and possibility of dose escalation (>70 Gy), ultrahypofractionated SBRT is now being recommended in select patients with prostate cancers of low and intermediate risk. Although adverse events following SBRT are a concern, acute toxicity can be limited to a certain extent by adjusting the overall length of treatment time by spacing out RT over multiple fractions. Modern radiation planning and delivery methods used in conjunction with cutting-edge imaging techniques have led to the increased adoption of SBRT in prostate cancer. Thus, from a practical standpoint, it is noninvasive and effective for treating prostate cancer, leading to increased access and higher patient satisfaction.
Modeling complex problems by harnessing the collective intelligence of local experts: New approaches in fuzzy cognitive mapping
Authors: Knox CB , Gray Steven , Zareei Mahdi , Wentworth Chelsea , Aminpour Payam , Wallace Renee V , Hodbod Jennifer , Brugnone Nathan
Published: October 2023

Developing system understanding and testing interventions are critical steps to addressing wicked problems. Fuzzy cognitive mapping (FCM) can be a useful participatory modeling tool that enables aggregation of individual perspectives to build system models that represent groups’ collective intelligence (CI). However, current FCM aggregation methodologies for creating CI models have rarely been tested and compared. We conducted 51 FCM interviews with local experts in the Flint, MI food system to map their mental models about how different food system sectors influenced desirable outcomes. Using four differing aggregation techniques, based on experts’ identity diversity and cognitive diversity, we generated four CI models. The models were compared based on their similarity to real-world complex systems using performance metrics like network structure, micro-motifs, cognitive distance, and scenario outcomes. We found that using cognitive diversity to group individuals was better suited for modeling systems with diverse holders of knowledge.
Transcriptome and metabolome analyses revealed the response mechanism of pepper roots to Phytophthora capsici infection
Authors: Lei Gang , Zhou Kun-Hua , Chen Xue-Jun , Huang Yue-Qin , Yuan Xin-Jie , Li Ge-Ge , Xie Yuan-Yuan , Fang Rong
Published: October 2023

Background

Phytophthora root rot caused by the oomycete Phytophthora capsici is the most devastating disease in pepper production worldwide, and current management strategies have not been effective in preventing this disease. Therefore, the use of resistant varieties was regarded as an important part of disease management of P. capsici. However, our knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying the defense response of pepper roots to P. capsici infection is limited.

Methods

A comprehensive transcriptome and metabolome approaches were used to dissect the molecular response of pepper to P. capsici infection in the resistant genotype A204 and the susceptible genotype A198 at 0, 24 and 48 hours post-inoculation (hpi).

Results

More genes and metabolites were induced at 24 hpi in A204 than A198, suggesting the prompt activation of defense responses in the resistant genotype, which can attribute two proteases, subtilisin-like protease and xylem cysteine proteinase 1, involved in pathogen recognition and signal transduction in A204. Further analysis indicated that the resistant genotype responded to P. capsici with fine regulation by the Ca2+- and salicylic acid-mediated signaling pathways, and then activation of downstream defense responses, including cell wall reinforcement and defense-related genes expression and metabolites accumulation. Among them, differentially expressed genes and differentially accumulated metabolites involved in the flavonoid biosynthesis pathways were uniquely activated in the resistant genotype A204 at 24 hpi, indicating a significant role of the flavonoid biosynthesis pathways in pepper resistance to P. capsici.

Conclusion

The candidate transcripts may provide genetic resources that may be useful in the improvement of Phytophthora root rot-resistant characters of pepper. In addition, the model proposed in this study provides new insight into the defense response against P. capsici in pepper, and enhance our current understanding of the interaction of pepper–P. capsici.
In Vitro antibiotic combinations of Colistin, Meropenem, Amikacin, and Amoxicillin/clavulanate against multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumonia isolated from patients with ventilator-associated pneumonia
Authors: Bayatinejad Ghazal , Salehi Mohammadreza , Beigverdi Reza , Halimi Shahnaz , Emaneini Mohammad , Jabalameli Fereshteh
Published: October 2023

Background

Hospital infections such as ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) due to multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (MDR-KP) strains have increased worldwide. In addition, biofilm production by these resistant isolates has confronted clinicians with higher treatment failure and infection recurrence. Given the paucity of new agents and limited data on combination therapy for MDR-KPs, the present study sought to evaluate the in vitro activity of several antibiotic combinations against planktonic and biofilm MDR-KPs isolated from patients with VAP.

Results

All 10 carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) isolates demonstrated multidrug resistance against the tested antibiotics. At planktonic mode, combinations of colistin-meropenem and amoxicillin/clavulanate in combination with meropenem, colistin, or amikacin showed synergism against 60–70% isolates. On the other hand, in the biofilm state, colistin-based combinations exhibited synergism against 50–70% isolates and the most effective combination was colistin-amikacin with 70% synergy.

Conclusions

The results revealed that combinations of amoxicillin/clavulanate with colistin, meropenem, or amikacin in the planktonic mode and colistin with amoxicillin/clavulanate, meropenem, or amikacin in the biofilm mode could effectively inhibit CRKP isolates, and thus could be further explored for the treatment of CRKPs.
Development of a well-defined tool to predict the overall survival in lung cancer patients: an African based cohort
Authors: Tafenzi Hassan Abdelilah , Choulli Farah , Adjade Ganiou , Baladi Anas , Afani Leila , Fadli Mohammed El , Essaadi Ismail , Belbaraka Rhizlane
Published: October 2023

Background

Nomogram is a graphic representation containing the expressed factor of the mathematical formula used to define a particular phenomenon. We aim to build and internally validate a nomogram to predict overall survival (OS) in patients diagnosed with lung cancer (LC).

Methods

We included 1200 LC patients from a single institution registry diagnosed from 2013 to 2021. The independent prognostic factors of LC patients were identified via cox proportional hazard regression analysis. Based on the results of multivariate cox analysis, we constructed the nomogram to predict the OS of LC patients.

Results

We finally included a total of 1104 LC patients. Age, medical urgency at diagnosis, performance status, radiotherapy, and surgery were identified as prognostic factors, and integrated to build the nomogram. The model performance in predicting prognosis was measured by receiver operating characteristic curve. Calibration plots of 6-, 12-, and 24- months OS showed optimal agreement between observations and model predictions.

Conclusion

We have developed and validated a unique predictive tool that can offer patients with LC an individual OS prognosis. This useful prognostic model could aid doctors in making decisions and planning therapeutic trials.
Significance of CD103+ tissue-resident memory T cells for predicting the effectiveness of immune checkpoint inhibitors in esophageal cancer
Authors: Natsuki Seiji , Tanaka Hiroaki , Nishiyama Masaki , Deguchi Sota , Miki Yuichiro , Yoshii Mami , Tamura Tatsuro , Toyokawa Takahiro , Lee Shigeru , Maeda Kiyoshi
Published: October 2023

Background

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), including nivolumab, have been approved to treat esophageal cancer. However, these remedies are not fit for all patients with esophageal cancer; therefore, a predictive surrogate marker is needed to assess their effectiveness. CD103+CD8+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, defined as tissue-resident memory T cells (TRM), are promising indicators of response to ICIs, but it remains to be elucidated. This study investigated the association between the efficacy of ICIs and TRM.

Methods

The relationships between TRM infiltrating esophageal cancer, clinicopathological features, and prognosis after nivolumab initiation were examined using immunostaining. Tissue samples were obtained from surgically resected specimens of 37 patients with esophageal cancer who received nivolumab as a secondary or subsequent therapy. In addition, TRM infiltration was compared with programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression and blood count parameters as predictors of nivolumab effectiveness.

Results

TRM-rich patients had a significant survival benefit after nivolumab initiation (12-months overall survival 70.8% vs 37.2%, p = 0.0485; 12-months progression-free survival 31.2% vs 0%, p = 0.0153) and experienced immune-related adverse events more frequently than TRM-poor patients (6 vs 2 patients). TRM infiltration was weakly correlated with PD-L1 positivity (r = 0.374, p = 0.022), but TRM may indicate more sensitive response to ICIs than PD-L1 expression in this study. Some blood test parameters also weakly correlated with TRM but did not impact prognosis.

Conclusions

TRM-rich patients have a favorable prognosis after nivolumab initiation. Our results suggest that TRM are vital for antitumor immunity and are a promising predictor of ICIs effectiveness.