bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serum iron is closely associated with metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease in type 2 diabetes: A real-world study
Authors: Wang Jun-Wei , Jin Chun-Hua , Ke Jiang-Feng , Ma Yi-Lin , Wang Yu-Jie , Lu Jun-Xi , Li Mei-Fang , Li Lian-Xi
Published: September 2022

Aims

There is still a debate about the relationship between serum iron and metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). Furthermore, few relevant studies were conducted in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Therefore, this study aimed to explore the association of serum iron levels with MAFLD in Chinese patients with T2DM.

Methods

This cross-sectional, real-world study consisted of 1,467 Chinese T2DM patients. MAFLD was diagnosed by abdominal ultrasonography. Based on serum iron quartiles, the patients were classified into four groups. Clinical characteristics were compared among the four groups, and binary logistic analyses were used to assess the associations of serum iron levels and quartiles with the presence of MAFLD in T2DM.

Results

After adjusting for gender, age, and diabetes duration, significantly higher prevalence of MAFLD was found in the second (45.7%), third (45.2%), and fourth (47.0%) serum iron quartiles than in the first quartiles (26.8%), with the highest MAFLD prevalence in the fourth quartile (p < 0.001 for trend). Moreover, increased HOMA2-IR (p = 0.003 for trend) and decreased HOMA2-S (p = 0.003 for trend) were observed across the serum iron quartiles. Fully adjusted binary logistic regression analyses indicated that both increased serum iron levels (OR: 1.725, 95% CI: 1.427 to 2.085, p < 0.001) and quartiles (p < 0.001 for trend) were still closely associated with the presence of MAFLD in T2DM patients even after controlling for multiple confounding factors.

Conclusions

There is a positive correlation between the presence of MAFLD and serum iron levels in T2DM patients, which may be attributed to the close association between serum iron and insulin resistance. Serum iron levels may act as one of the indicators for evaluating the risk of MAFLD in T2DM individuals.
Which Parameters Determine the Low-Light Behaviour of CIGSSe-Based Thin-Film Solar Cells?
Authors: Heise Stephan J. , Taskesen Teoman , Ndoukoue Chintouo Abdel Kader , Ohland Jörg
Published: September 2022

The performance of solar cells in realistic operating conditions usually differs from the specified efficiency at standard test conditions (STC). Among other factors, the illumination intensity (irradiance) is often lower than at STC, which leads to a lower device efficiency. Therefore, it becomes important to optimize the output power at low-light conditions in order to achieve a high energy yield at a specific location. For this purpose, it is essential to have a detailed knowledge of the relevant parameters that govern the low-light behaviour. This study investigates the impact of the diode parameters on the low-light performance of thin-film solar cells based on chalcopyrite Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se)2 absorbers. Experimental irradiance-dependent current-voltage results are analysed with the help of an analytical model. For each parameter the contributions of its absolute value and its irradiance dependence are assessed. Additionally, relations between the diode parameters and material parameters are examined by analysing different cell variations. The results show that cell performance at low-light conditions is primarily governed by the irradiance dependence of the fill factor, which in turn is mainly determined by the parallel resistance of the device. Moreover, a reduction of the dark saturation current and the ideality factor towards lower irradiances is observed which indicates an irradiance-dependent change of recombination dynamics. The consequence is an increase of the open-circuit voltage at low-light conditions which indirectly also boosts the fill factor. The results suggest that cell optimization for low-light conditions should focus on improving the parallel resistance and tuning recombination in a way that the dark saturation current decreases with decreasing irradiance.
Does the utilisation of new energy and waste gas resources contribute to product innovation from the perspective of a circular economy? Evidence from China
Authors: Ao Xiangyuan , Teh Boon Heng , Ong Tze San , Muhammad Haslinah , Selamat Aslam Izah , Chen Anqi
Published: September 2022

These days energy-related enterprises started using a fancy terminology called circular economy (CE) to display their progress in opting for innovative approaches to mitigate carbon emissions and waste gas released in the enterprise during the operation. Hence, this paper examines whether there is any mediating role of innovation from a CE point of view or not in managing the waste resources and minimising the carbon emission on the innovation and quality of new energy products. For this, secondary data with a sample observation of 608 was selected from Chinese listed enterprises from 2015–2020. The empirical results revealed that the waste resource utilisation by firms is helpful to the quality of their products but does not significantly affect the innovation of their new energy products. In addition, the evidence from developing countries shows that companies’ carbon reduction behaviour benefits their new energy product innovation. However, it does not significantly impact the quality of their products. Model validation analyses the existence of corporate waste resource utilisation through corporate new energy product innovation, thereby contributing to corporate product quality. Overall, this paper facilitates enterprises’ new energy product development activities and fills the research gap between companies’ waste gas resource utilisation and new energy product innovation.
Perceptual multivariate visualisation of volumetric Lagrangian fluid-flow processes
Authors: Kehl Christian , Lobelle Delphine M. A. , van Sebille Erik
Published: September 2022

Lagrangian flow data in oceanography are highly complex, encompassing not only the underpinning Eulerian, advective, vectorial flow fields and the three-dimensional position coordinates of tracer particles but also supplementary trajectory information such as interaction radii of particles, lifecycle source-to-sink information and biochemical process data. Visualising all those data cooperatively in its three-dimensional context is a prime challenge, as it demands to present all relevant information to enable a contextual analysis of the flow process while preventing the most commonly-occurring perceptual issues of clutter, colourisation conflicts, artefacts and the lack of spatial references in fluid-flow applications. In this article, we present visualisation design approaches for 4D spatio-temporal data in their context and introduce a novel colour-mapping approach for 3D velocity tensors. The employed visualisation approach is evaluated towards perceptual adequacy and efficacy with respect to algebraic visualisation design and on an oceanographic case study. The technical and perceptual elements have further implications and applications for still-picture and animated volumetric visualisation design in related applications of the natural sciences, such as geological flow mapping.
Study on spatial-temporal characteristics and influencing factors of urban environmental resource efficiency in the Yangtze River Basin of China
Authors: Li Jingjie , Ding Junli , Zhang Yi , Li Shanwei
Published: September 2022

There is a close relationship between environmental resource efficiency and the high-quality development of the river basin economy. Improving urban environmental resource efficiency is of great significance to the high-quality development of the river basin. Based on the environmental panel data of cities in the Yangtze River Basin from 2004 to 2020, this paper applies the DEA-Malmquist index model to explore the static characteristics and dynamic changes in the overall environmental resource efficiency of cities in the Yangtze River Basin. Then, the spatial and temporal aspects of the environment are discussed by combining the kernel density function method. The Tobit regression model is used to analyze the factors affecting the environmental resource efficiency of cities in the Yangtze River Basin and its importance. Finally, the grey prediction model is utilized to predict the undesirable output data of cities in the Yangtze River Basin from 2023 to 2025. The results show that the overall urban environmental resource efficiency level in the Yangtze River Basin is high. However, the number of cities that achieve DEA efficiency is less than that of non-DEA efficient cities. The Total Factor Productivity (TFP) of cities shows a “high-low-high” trend, and the technical efficiency change (Effch) and pure technical efficiency change (Pech) have an improvement trend. Industrial structure, regional factors, and openness are positively correlated with environmental resource efficiency, during the economic scale and environmental governance level negatively moderate environmental resource efficiency. The forecast results show that the undesired output of cities in the Yangtze River Basin has been somewhat controlled.
IRF7 expression correlates with HIV latency reversal upon specific blockade of immune activation
Authors: Ezeonwumelu Ifeanyi Jude , García-Vidal Edurne , Felip Eudald , Puertas Maria C. , Oriol-Tordera Bruna , Gutiérrez-Chamorro Lucía , Gohr André , Ruiz-Riol Marta , Massanella Marta , Clotet Bonaventura , Martinez-Picado Javier , Badia Roger , Riveira-Muñoz Eva , Ballana Ester
Published: September 2022

The persistence of latent HIV reservoirs allows for viral rebound upon antiretroviral therapy interruption, hindering effective HIV-1 cure. Emerging evidence suggests that modulation of innate immune stimulation could impact viral latency and contribute to the clearing of HIV reservoir. Here, the latency reactivation capacity of a subclass of selective JAK2 inhibitors was characterized as a potential novel therapeutic strategy for HIV-1 cure. Notably, JAK2 inhibitors reversed HIV-1 latency in non-clonal lymphoid and myeloid in vitro models of HIV-1 latency and also ex vivo in CD4+ T cells from ART+ PWH, albeit its function was not dependent on JAK2 expression. Immunophenotypic characterization and whole transcriptomic profiling supported reactivation data, showing common gene expression signatures between latency reactivating agents (LRA; JAK2i fedratinib and PMA) in contrast to other JAK inhibitors, but with significantly fewer affected gene sets in the pathway analysis. In depth evaluation of differentially expressed genes, identified a significant upregulation of IRF7 expression despite the blockade of the JAK-STAT pathway and downregulation of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Moreover, IRF7 expression levels positively correlated with HIV latency reactivation capacity of JAK2 inhibitors and also other common LRAs. Collectively, these results represent a promising step towards HIV eradication by demonstrating the potential of innate immune modulation for reducing the viral reservoir through a novel pathway driven by IRF7.
Antifungal immunity mediated by C-type lectin receptors may be a novel target in immunotherapy for urothelial bladder cancer
Authors: Li Tianhang , Liu Tianyao , Zhao Zihan , Pan Yuchen , Xu Xinyan , Zhang Yulin , Zhan Shoubin , Zhou Shengkai , Zhu Wenjie , Guo Hongqian , Yang Rong
Published: September 2022

Immunotherapies, such as immune-checkpoint blockade and adoptive T-cell therapy, offer novel treatment options with good efficacy for patients with urothelial bladder cancer. However, heterogeneity and therapeutic resistance have limited the use of immunotherapy. Further research into immune-regulatory mechanisms in bladder cancer is urgently required. Emerging evidence demonstrates that the commensal microbiota and its interactions with host immunity play pivotal roles in a variety of physiological and pathological processes, including in cancer. The gut microbiota has been identified as a potentially effective target of treatment that can be synergized with immunotherapy. The urothelial tract is also a key site for multiple microbes, although the immune-regulatory role of the urinary microbiome in the process of carcinogenesis of bladder cancer remains to be elucidated. We performed a comprehensive analysis of the expression and biological functions of C-type lectin receptors (CLRs), which have been recognized as innate pathogen-associated receptors for fungal microbiota, in bladder cancer. In line with previous research on fungal colonization of the urothelial tract, we found that CLRs, including Dectin-1, Dectin-2, Dectin-3, and macrophage-inducible Ca2+-dependent lectin receptor (Mincle), had a significant association with immune infiltration in bladder cancer. Multiple innate and adaptive pathways are positively correlated with the upregulation of CLRs. In addition, we found a significant correlation between the expression of CLRs and a range of immune-checkpoint proteins in bladder cancer. Based on previous studies and our findings, we hypothesize that the urinary mycobiome plays a key role in the pathogenesis of bladder cancer and call for more research on CLR-mediated anti-fungal immunity against bladder cancer as a novel target for immunotherapy in urothelial bladder cancer.
Individual HLA heterogeneity and its implications for cellular immune evasion in cancer and beyond
Authors: Pagliuca Simona , Gurnari Carmelo , Rubio Marie Thérèse , Visconte Valeria , Lenz Tobias L.
Published: September 2022

Structural and functional variability of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) is the foundation for competent adaptive immune responses against pathogen and tumor antigens as it assures the breadth of the presented immune-peptidome, theoretically sustaining an efficient and diverse T cell response. This variability is presumably the result of the continuous selection by pathogens, which over the course of evolution shaped the adaptive immune system favoring the assortment of a hyper-polymorphic HLA system able to elaborate efficient immune responses. Any genetic alteration affecting this diversity may lead to pathological processes, perturbing antigen presentation capabilities, T-cell reactivity and, to some extent, natural killer cell functionality. A highly variable germline HLA genotype can convey immunogenetic protection against infections, be associated with tumor surveillance or influence response to anti-neoplastic treatments. In contrast, somatic aberrations of HLA loci, rearranging the original germline configuration, theoretically decreasing its variability, can facilitate mechanisms of immune escape that promote tumor growth and immune resistance.

The purpose of the present review is to provide a unified and up-to-date overview of the pathophysiological consequences related to the perturbations of the genomic heterogeneity of HLA complexes and their impact on human diseases, with a special focus on cancer.
Macrophages in periapical lesions: Potential roles and future directions
Authors: Song Yao , Li Xinying , Huang Dingming , Song Hongjie
Published: September 2022

Periapical lesions are infectious diseases that occur in the apical region of teeth. They result in the destruction of alveolar bone and are usually accompanied by swelling, pain, and possible systemic impacts. A complex interaction between pathogens and the host immune system determines the development, progression, and outcome of periapical lesions. The lesions, if not treated promptly, may cause resorption of bone tissue, destruction of the periodontal ligament, and loss of the affected teeth, all of which can severely worsen the quality of life of patients, often at considerable economic cost to both patients and medical organizations. Macrophages are a group of heterogeneous cells that have many roles in the development of infections, destruction and reconstruction of bone tissues, and microbe–host interactions. However, the differential and comprehensive polarization of macrophages complicates the understanding of the regulatory mechanism of periapical lesion progression. This report provides a comprehensive review of recent advances in our knowledge of the potential role of macrophages in determining the turnover of human periapical lesions. For example, macrophage differentiation might indicate whether the lesions are stable or progressing while the extent of bacteria invasion could regulate the differentiation and function of macrophages involved in the periapical lesion. In addition, alternative strategies for the treatment of apical periodontitis are discussed.
Regulation of emergency granulopoiesis during infection
Authors: Paudel Sagar , Ghimire Laxman , Jin Liliang , Jeansonne Duane , Jeyaseelan Samithamby
Published: September 2022

During acute infectious and inflammatory conditions, a large number of neutrophils are in high demand as they are consumed in peripheral organs. The hematopoietic system rapidly responds to the demand by turning from steady state to emergency granulopoiesis to expedite neutrophil generation in the bone marrow (BM). How the hematopoietic system integrates pathogenic and inflammatory stress signals into the molecular cues of emergency granulopoiesis has been the subject of investigations. Recent studies in the field have highlighted emerging concepts, including the direct sensing of pathogens by BM resident or sentinel hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs), the crosstalk of HSPCs, endothelial cells, and stromal cells to convert signals to granulopoiesis, and the identification of novel inflammatory molecules, such as C/EBP-β, ROS, IL-27, IFN-γ, CXCL1 with direct effects on HSPCs. In this review, we will provide a detailed account of emerging concepts while reassessing well-established cellular and molecular players of emergency granulopoiesis. While providing our views on the discrepant results and theories, we will postulate an updated model of granulopoiesis in the context of health and disease.
Marine priority habitat mapping in a Mediterranean conservation area (Gyaros, South Aegean) through multi-platform marine remote sensing techniques
Authors: Dimas Xenophon , Fakiris Elias , Christodoulou Dimitris , Georgiou Nikos , Geraga Maria , Papathanasiou Vasillis , Orfanidis Sotiris , Kotomatas Spyros , Papatheodorou George
Published: September 2022

The aim of this study is to present the results of the first complete marine habitat mapping through marine remote sensing techniques in Gyaros Island, a remote island in the Cyclades archipelago with a great historical and ecological value. Gyaros Island is of great biological importance and, for this reason, since 2011, is part of the NATURA 2000 network and, by 2019, is characterised as a marine protected area (MPA). More than 80 km2 of seafloor area were inspected through a multi-platform marine remote sensing technique survey through two individual expeditions in 2014 and 2017. The remote sensing survey was conducted utilising side scan sonar, sub bottom profiler and multi- and single-beam echosounders. In addition to the remote sensing survey, an extensive ground truth network was established utilising a underwater towed camera and VanVeen sediment grabber. These resulted in the area being fully covered with high-quality data. Through these, a classification of the area was performed based on three distinct seafloor habitat mapping schemes (Expert, European Nature Information System and NATURA HD). The survey and the classification revealed that over 50% of the seafloor is covered by Posidonia oceanica meadows and coralligenous and other calcareous bio-concretion priority habitats. Based on the results of this work, Gyaros MPA was also established and different protections and conservation zones were set.
Diversity of Escherichia coli found in the Salish Sea
Authors: Grunwald Jenny L. , Rabinowitz Peter , Weissman Scott J. , Roberts Marilyn C.
Published: September 2022

E. coli is a species of enteric bacteria found in the intestinal tract of humans and animals that can persist in the environment and contaminate food. Anthropogenic activity has led to pathogenic E. coli from humans and animals contaminating environments through the discharge of fecal wastes in sewage and agricultural runoff. While anthropogenic sources of E. coli have been described in terrestrial and freshwater environments, gaps remain in scientific knowledge about E. coli diversity in marine environments and the risk to human and animal health. This study aims to fill in some of the knowledge gaps on the diversity of E. coli in marine ecosystems, including: 1) describe the spatial variation of the E. coli sequence types (STs) found in the study region; 2) describe available information on E. coli STs from marine environments in terms of known relationships to determine if the isolates were related to human, animal, environment strains or novel. We analyzed a dataset of 332 E. coli isolates from the Salish Sea ecosystem, comprising 196 multi-locus sequence types. Sample sources included marine water near shellfish beds, marine wildlife, river otters, and a small number of marine water sites near beaches and freshwater samples from creeks into the Salish Sea. ST10 was the most frequent ST (n=12) and was found in multiple locations and sample types. For the identified STs, we searched metadata for E. coli STs in EnteroBase, an international E. coli database. Additional information on E. coli STs was derived from searches of published studies in PubMed. We found that diversity varied between different regions of the study area, with the greatest diversity found in an area which has partially treated wastewater outflows. A higher diversity of STs associated with animals was found in an area near were animals are raised. Many of the STs identified have been associated with virulence in humans. For a number of identified STs, no references could be found in either PubMed or EnteroBase. These findings support the importance of further studies to understand the relevance of marine E. coli to human and wildlife health.
Exploring the three-dimensional flow-sediment dynamics and trapping mechanisms in a curved estuary: The role of salinity and circulation
Authors: Tao Jianfeng , Zhu Renjie
Published: September 2022

Combined with the observed data in the wet season in June 2015, structures of longitudinal and lateral residual current and characteristics of the estuarine turbidity maximum (ETM) in the Yongjiang estuary (YE) are studied using a three-dimensional baroclinic flow and sediment numerical model. The mechanisms of residual current and sediment trapping are investigated according to the momentum balance analysis and sediment transport decomposition. The results show that at spring tide, the outflowing longitudinal residual current is dominated by longitudinal advection and barotropic pressure gradient. At neap tide, a remarkable baroclinic effect emerges at the bottom of the river mouth area, driving the landward residual current and forming the estuarine circulation. Lateral residual current at upstream bends with lower salinity is dominated by longitudinal advection and barotropic pressure gradient. The flow directs toward the concave bank at the surface and toward the convex bank near the bottom at these sections. At downstream bends with higher salinity, the lateral residual current is greatly affected by the baroclinic gradient, which will shift the lateral flow circulation structure. In transition straight reaches located at Qingshuipu and Zhenhai, the lateral residual current presents a double-cell circulation with surface convergence and bottom divergence. During spring tide, the ETM is located near Qingshuipu, driven by landward tidal pumping transport due to the strong tidal energy. During neap tide, a strong exchange flow generates landward circulation transport around the river mouth, and the ETM moves downstream to Zhenhai. At bends, sediment along the cross section is laterally trapped on the convex bank, driven by bottom lateral flow induced circulation transport. While in transition straight reaches, high turbidity is still concentrated in the deep groove, caused by bottom divergent flow and circulation transport.
Proteomic analysis of the spineless cuttlefish Sepiella japonica: Exploratory analyses on the phenomenon of death after spawning
Authors: Li Hongfei , Lin Shuangrui , Qi Pengzhi , Wang Jingtian , Fan Meihua , Huang Hongwei , Dong Zhenyu , Xu Kaida , Guo Baoying
Published: September 2022

To better understand the physiological events involving death after spawning in S. japonica (Japanese spineless cuttlefish), we have presently generated a proteomic data set to properly examine this phenomenon. As such, a proteomic-based approach was employed to identify differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in the optic glands of S. japonica, at three distinct growth stages: pre-spawning after sexual maturity (group A); spawning (group B) and postspawning before death (group C). About 955, 1000, and 1024 DEPs were identified for each comparative group analysis (i.e., group B vs A, group B vs C, and group C vs A). We further discovered that the function of these newly identified DEPs was mostly related to molecular events such as gene translation and signal transduction. According to the enriched GO terms obtained by Gene Ontology analysis, the function of most DEPs was correlated with structural molecule activity, ribosome function and gene expression. The majority of DEPs were known to be involved in signal transduction and energy metabolism, interestingly, some aging-related DEPs were also identified. Putting together, our study provides new insights, at the protein level, in the phenomenon of death after spawning in S. japonica, by referring to anti-aging effects conserved in other cephalopoda species.
Vestibular and balance function in veterans with chronic dizziness associated with mild traumatic brain injury and blast exposure
Authors: Akin Faith W. , Murnane Owen D. , Hall Courtney D. , Riska Kristal M. , Sears Jennifer
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this study was to examine vestibular and balance function in individuals with chronic dizziness associated with mTBI/blast. A prospective case-control study design was used to examine ocular motor, vestibular function, and postural stability in veterans with symptoms of dizziness and/or imbalance following an mTBI or blast exposure (n = 77) and a healthy control group (n = 32). Significant group differences were observed for saccadic accuracy, VOR gain during slow harmonic acceleration at 0.01 Hz, cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potentials asymmetry ratio, composite equilibrium score on the sensory organization test, total Dynamic Gait Index score, and gait. The frequency of test abnormalities in participants with mTBI/blast ranged from 0 to 70% across vestibular, ocular motor, and balance/gait testing, with the most frequent abnormalities occurring on tests of balance and gait function. Seventy-two percent of the mTBI/blast participants had abnormal findings on one or more of the balance and gait tests. Vestibular test abnormalities occurred in ~34% of the individuals with chronic dizziness and mTBI/blast, and abnormalities occurred more frequently for measures of otolith organ function (25% for cVEMP and 18% for oVEMP) than for measures of hSCC function (8% for SHA and 6% for caloric test). Abnormal ocular motor function occurred in 18% of the mTBI/blast group. These findings support the need for comprehensive vestibular and balance assessment in individuals with dizziness following mTBI/blast-related injury.
Overcoming resistance to PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors in esophageal cancer
Authors: Cheng Chao , Zhuge Lingdun , Xiao Xin , Luan Siyuan , Yuan Yong
Published: September 2022

As the predominant treatment option of the immunotherapy for advanced esophageal cancer (EC), the application of programmed death 1 (PD-1) and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibitors brings new hope to clinical practice. However, a considerable portion of patients do not response to this therapy, meanwhile most patients sensitive to PD-1 or PD-L1 antibody initially will develop resistance to the treatment eventually. To break through the limits of clinical effect, it is of critical importance to make a profound understanding of the mechanisms of so called primary resistance and acquired resistance. Subsequently, exploring potent predictors to identify suitable patients for anti-PD-1/PD-L1 treatment and investigating efficient strategies to overcome drug resistance will be helpful to expend the benefit of immunotherapy. In the present view, we summarized the potential predictive factors for anti-PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapy in EC, and demonstrated the plausible mechanisms of resistance to PD-1/PD-L1 blockade as well as its feasible solutions.
Adaptive magnetic resonance image guided radiation for intact localized prostate cancer how to optimally test a rapidly emerging technology
Authors: Hall William A. , Kishan Amar U. , Hall Emma , Nagar Himanshu , Vesprini Danny , Paulson Eric , Van der Heide Uulke A. , Lawton Colleen A. F. , Kerkmeijer Linda G. W. , Tree Alison C.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Prostate cancer is a common malignancy for which radiation therapy (RT) provides an excellent management option with high rates of control and low toxicity. Historically RT has been given with CT based image guidance. Recently, magnetic resonance (MR) imaging capabilities have been successfully integrated with RT delivery platforms, presenting an appealing, yet complex, expensive, and time-consuming method of adapting and guiding RT. The precise benefits of MR guidance for localized prostate cancer are unclear. We sought to summarize optimal strategies to test the benefits of MR guidance specifically in localized prostate cancer.

Methods

A group of radiation oncologists, physicists, and statisticians were identified to collectively address this topic. Participants had a history of treating prostate cancer patients with the two commercially available MRI-guided RT devices. Participants also had a clinical focus on randomized trials in localized prostate cancer. The goal was to review both ongoing trials and present a conceptual focus on MRI-guided RT specifically in the definitive treatment of prostate cancer, along with developing and proposing novel trials for future consideration. Trial hypotheses, endpoints, and areas for improvement in localized prostate cancer that specifically leverage MR guided technology are presented.

Results

Multiple prospective trials were found that explored the potential of adaptive MRI-guided radiotherapy in the definitive treatment of prostate cancer. Different primary areas of improvement that MR guidance may offer in prostate cancer were summarized. Eight clinical trial design strategies are presented that summarize options for clinical trials testing the potential benefits of MRI-guided RT.

Conclusions

The number and scope of trials evaluating MRI-guided RT for localized prostate cancer is limited. Yet multiple promising opportunities to test this technology and potentially improve outcomes for men with prostate cancer undergoing definitive RT exist. Attention, in the form of multi-institutional randomized trials, is needed.
Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma with gastric metastasis misdiagnosed as primary gastric cancer: A case report and literature review
Authors: Zhu Qingshun , Zhai Shengyong , Ge Enkang , Li Lei , Jiao Xuguang , Xiong Jinqiu , Zhu Guangxu , Xu Yuanyuan , Qu Jianjun , Wang Zhengjiang
Published: September 2022

We describe a case of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma with gastric metastasis misdiagnosed as primary gastric cancer. In addition, combined with the literature, we summarized the clinical and imaging features of gastric metastasis of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma in order to improve the understanding of the preoperative diagnosis. Positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) is accurate in evaluating the primary tumor, lymph node metastasis, and distant metastasis of patients. In addition, immunohistochemical staining can determine the primary site of metastatic adenocarcinoma. For patients who can not determine the location of the primary tumor, the rigorous preoperative examination is necessary, it can improve the accuracy of diagnosis and avoid excessive treatment of patients.
Research on damage visualization of concrete structures based on electrical resistance tomography
Authors: Su Chenhui , Zhang Wenchao , Zhao Jianyu , Yang Hongjuan , Li Chengdong
Published: September 2022

Concrete is used in the construction of high-rise buildings, large bridges, viaducts and other structures for a wide range of applications, and damage to the internal structure of concrete may to lead to catastrophic accidents. In this paper, electrical resistance tomography is applied to concrete structural damage detection. The electrical resistance tomography imaging reconstruction algorithm is studied. The advantages and disadvantages of five image reconstruction algorithms are investigated through simulation experiments as well as experiments, and the improved normalized image reconstruction algorithm is selected. The feasibility of the used electrical resistance tomography system is explored by conducting imaging experiments with water bodies, and the results show that the built system is feasible. Finally, using the resistive chromatography imaging system, a current excitation is applied to the concrete, and the data acquisition system collects the boundary voltage values carrying the internal conductivity distribution of the concrete, and images its internal structure through the image reconstruction algorithm. It is achieved to detect damage inside the concrete and to visualize the imaging when there are pores in the concrete structure and when water penetrates in the concrete structure.
Research on target recognition technology of GISC spectral imaging based on active laser lighting
Authors: Li Meixuan , Li Yanqiu , Wang Hong
Published: September 2022

Aiming at the application requirements of spectral imaging technology in satellite remote sensing, biomedical diagnosis, marine detection and rescue, agricultural and forestry monitoring and classification, military camouflage identification, etc., this paper uses 532 and 650 nm lasers as light sources, and uses multi-spectral intensity correlation imaging equipment—snapshot spectroscopic cameras based on ghost imaging via sparsity constraints (GISC) enable precise identification of targets. In this paper, the principle of snapshot GISC spectral imaging is expounded, and the experimental research work of GISC spectral imaging target recognition technology based on active laser illumination is carried out. The experimental results show that using a 532 nm laser as the light source to illuminate the target object can accurately identify the green target letter “I”; using a 650 nm laser as the light source to illuminate the target object can accurately identify the red target letter “Q”. And gives spectral imaging results of the color target “QIT” acquired by the GISC spectroscopic camera through a single exposure at the wavelength range from 446 to 698nm, with both pseudo-color map and color fusion map. In order to further illustrate the feasibility of the experiment, the spectral distribution of the reconstructed image is analyzed, which has important practical significance and engineering value.
Production of two SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies with different potencies in Nicotiana benthamiana
Authors: Frigerio Rachele , Marusic Carla , Villani Maria Elena , Lico Chiara , Capodicasa Cristina , Andreano Emanuele , Paciello Ida , Rappuoli Rino , Salzano Anna Maria , Scaloni Andrea , Baschieri Selene , Donini Marcello
Published: September 2022

Monoclonal antibodies are considered to be highly effective therapeutic tools for the treatment of mild to moderate COVID-19 patients. In the present work, we describe the production of two SARS-CoV-2 human IgG1 monoclonal antibodies recognizing the spike protein receptor-binding domain (RBD) and endowed with neutralizing activity (nAbs) in plants. The first one, mAbJ08-MUT, was previously isolated from a COVID-19 convalescent patient and Fc-engineered to prolong the half-life and reduce the risk of antibody-dependent enhancement. This nAb produced in mammalian cells, delivered in a single intramuscular administration during a Phase I clinical study, was shown to (i) be safe and effectively protect against major variants of concern, and (ii) have some neutralizing activity against the recently emerged omicron variant in a cytopathic-effect-based microneutralization assay (100% inhibitory concentration, IC100 of 15 μg/mL). The second antibody, mAb675, previously isolated from a vaccinated individual, showed an intermediate neutralization activity against SARS-CoV-2 variants. Different accumulation levels of mAbJ08-MUT and mAb675 were observed after transient agroinfiltration in Nicotiana benthamiana plants knocked-out for xylosil and fucosil transferases, leading to yields of ~35 and 150 mg/kg of fresh leaf mass, respectively. After purification, as a result of the proteolytic events affecting the hinge-CH2 region, a higher degradation of mAb675 was observed, compared to mAbJ08-MUT (~18% vs. ~1%, respectively). Both nAbs showed a human-like glycosylation profile, and were able to specifically bind to RBD and compete with angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 binding in vitro. SARS-CoV-2 neutralization assay against the original virus isolated in Wuhan demonstrated the high neutralization potency of the plant-produced mAbJ08-MUT, with levels (IC100 < 17 ng/mL) comparable to those of the cognate antibody produced in a Chinese hamster ovary cell line; conversely, mAb675 exhibited a medium neutralization potency (IC100 ~ 200 ng/mL). All these data confirm that plant expression platforms may represent a convenient and rapid production system of potent nAbs to be used both in therapy and diagnostics in pandemic emergencies.
The psychology of the internet fraud victimization of older adults: A systematic review
Authors: Shang Yuxi , Wu Zhongxian , Du Xiaoyu , Jiang Yanbin , Ma Beibei , Chi Meihong
Published: September 2022

Criminals targeting and exploiting older adults in online environments are of great concern. This study systematically retrieved and analyzed articles on the psychological characteristics of older adult victims of online fraud. First, we found that there was no evidence that older adults were more prevalent than other individuals of other ages among online fraud victims, and current researchers have focused more on why older adults are easy targets for fraud (susceptibility to being cheated). Second, research on psychological factors of older adults' susceptibility to online fraud has mainly focused on cognitive function, trust traits, and other personality traits, such as social loneliness, the Big Five personality traits, and self-control. Among them, most researchers claim that the cyber-cheating of older adults may be due to a decline in their cognitive function. However, there has not been a consensus on how cognitive function and physical and mental conditions affect older people who are cheated. Third, techniques (i.e., methods and techniques used by fraudsters) and experience (i.e., familiarity with internet technology or fraud) may be related to the susceptibility of older adults to fraud, and these studies have also not yet generated a consensus supported by reliable data. Based on the above research uncertainties, we propose that fraud prevention and control strategies for older adults should be applied with caution.
Case report: Castleman’s disease involving the renal sinus resembling renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Enlong , Li Yuan , Lang Ning
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Castleman's disease (CD) is a rare benign lymphoproliferative disease that frequently involves the mediastinal thorax and the neck lymph nodes. It rarely affects extrathoracic presentations, with even fewer presentations in the renal sinus.

Patient concerns

In this report, we present a case of a 40-year-old woman with no significant past medical history who presented Castleman's disease arising in the renal sinus.

Diagnosis and interventions

The patient visited our hospital with the chief complaint of left renal sinus lesion after renal ultrasonography by regular physical examination. Subsequent abdominal computed tomography urography revealed a soft tissue mass with heterogeneous obvious enhancement in the sinus of the left kidney, which was suspected to be a renal malignant tumor. Hence, the patient underwent a left radical nephrectomy. Histological examination revealed hyperplastic lymphoid follicles in the renal sinus and was finally diagnosed as Castleman's disease of the hyaline vascular type.

Outcomes

Five days after the surgery procedure, the patient was discharged.

Conclusion

Due to the low incidence of Castleman's disease in renal sinus, there is a strong likelihood of missed diagnosis or misdiagnosis, and it is, therefore, important to be aware of the risk. Heightened awareness of this disease and its radiographic manifestations may prompt consideration of this diagnosis. Therefore, we explored the radiologic findings to find out some radiologic features suggesting this condition to help clinicians to schedule nephron-sparing surgery in the future.
Case report: Incomplete laceration of the right middle lobar bronchus due to blunt chest trauma: An unusual pattern and attentions
Authors: Song Yuqi , Ma Jianzun , Wang Jing , Fang Linan
Published: September 2022

Tracheobronchial ruptures caused by blunt chest trauma are rarely encountered but may be life-threatening. It is even rarer when the rupture is in the right middle lobe bronchus. Here we present a case of incomplete laceration of the right middle lobe bronchus after blunt trauma, which could easily be overlooked because of the absence of obvious symptoms. A 58-year-old man suffered multiple traumas after being attacked by cattle, closed chest drainage was promptly performed in the local hospital for bilateral hemopneumothorax. Three days later, the patient was transferred to our center for urgent exploratory thoracic surgery due to persistent hemothorax. We did not diagnose bronchial injury even after a bedside emergency bronchoscopy due to the adherence of bloody secretions and sputum crusts. It was not until a repeat chest CT 4 days after the initial surgery that we suspected an incomplete right middle lobe bronchial laceration, which was confirmed by postoperative bronchoscopy. The patient eventually underwent right middle lobe lung resection for a deep and wide bronchial laceration and recovered well. Clinicians should be fully aware of the possibility of this condition after blunt chest trauma and make good use of CT and bronchoscopy to help with diagnosis and treatment.
Plasma amyloid-beta levels correlated with impaired hepatic functions: An adjuvant biomarker for the diagnosis of biliary atresia
Authors: Lyu Hongyu , Ye Yongqin , Lui Vincent Chi Hang , Wu Weifang , Chung Patrick Ho Yu , Wong Kenneth Kak Yuen , Li Hung-Wing , Wong Man Shing , Tam Paul Kwong Hang , Wang Bin
Published: September 2022

Background

Biliary atresia (BA) is an infantile fibro-obstructive cholestatic disease with poor prognosis. An early diagnosis and timely Kasai portoenterostomy (KPE) improve clinical outcomes. Aggregation of amyloid-beta (Aβ) around hepatic bile ducts has been discovered as a factor for BA pathogenesis, yet whether plasma Aβ levels correlate with hepatic dysfunctions and could be a biomarker for BA remains unknown.

Method

Plasma samples of 11 BA and 24 controls were collected for liver function test, Aβ40 and Aβ42 measurement by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Pearson's chi-squared test or Mann–Whitney U test was performed to assess differences between groups. Correlation between Aβ42/Aβ40 and liver function parameters was performed using Pearson analysis. The area under the receiver-operative characteristic (ROC) curve (area under curve; AUC) was measured to evaluate the diagnostic power of Aβ42/Aβ40 for BA. Diagnostic enhancement was further evaluated by binary regression ROC analysis of Aβ42/Aβ40 combined with other hepatic function parameters.

Results

Plasma Aβ42/Aβ40 was elevated in BA patients. Aβ42 displayed a weak positive correlation with γ-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) (Pearson’s correlation = 0.349), while there was no correlation for Aβ40 with hepatic functions. Aβ42/Aβ40 was moderately correlated with GGT, total bile acid (TBA), direct bilirubin (DBIL) (Pearson’s correlation = 0.533, 0.475, 0.480), and weakly correlated with total bilirubin (TBIL) (Pearson’s correlation = 0.337). Aβ42/Aβ40 showed an acceptable predictive power for cholestasis [AUC = 0.746 (95% CI: 0.552–0.941), p < 0.05]. Diagnostic powers of Aβ42/Aβ40 together with hepatic function parameters for cholestasis were markedly improved compared to any indicator alone. Neither Aβ42/Aβ40 nor hepatic function parameters displayed sufficient power in discriminating BA from choledochal cysts (CC); however, combinations of Aβ42/Aβ40 + GGT along with any other hepatic function parameters could differentiate BA from CC-cholestasis (AUC = 1.000, p < 0.05) with a cut-off value as 0.02371, −0.28387, −0.34583, 0.06224, 0.01040, 0.06808, and 0.05898, respectively.

Conclusion

Aβ42/Aβ40 is a good indicator for cholestasis, but alone is insufficient for a distinction of BA from non-BA. However, Aβ42/Aβ40 combined with GGT and one other hepatic function parameter displayed a high predictive power as a screening test for jaundiced neonates who are more likely to be BA, enabling them to early intraoperative cholangiography for BA confirmation and KPE to improve surgical outcomes. However, a multi-centers validation is needed before introduction into daily clinical practice.
Large Firms as Threats to Small Business Survival in South Africa: An Exploratory Literature Review
Authors: Makwara Tendai
Published: September 2022

Objective: This study examined how large businesses negatively impact small business survival and growth in South Africa. It aims to expose harmful practices by large firms that cause small businesses to fail. Thus it seeks to challenge a commonly held assertion that larger firms are predisposed to support smaller firms to achieve growth and survival objectives. Research Design & Methods: A theoretical literature review methodology was used to conduct this study. Findings: The findings indicate that many of the threats from South African large firms targeted at small, micro and medium enterprises (SMMEs) emanate from the advantage of their size, market dominance, and close links the corporate business sector enjoys with the government. Implications & Recommendations: The study argues that larger firms in South Africa are as much of a catalyst for the demise of SMMEs as they can also be beneficial. Therefore it recommends an effective administration of the Competitions Act laws to protect SMMEs and develop new policies that seek to build SMMEs in their capacity and not as a complementary sector to big companies. Contribution & Value Added: The study contributes to the overall discourse about the role of the large business community in supporting the SMME sector in the country. It thus adds value towards broadening an understanding of the threats to small business survival in South Africa and finding solutions of how they can be supported to become viable.