bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of thyroid hormones in hypothyroid and euthyroid patients: a 2022 THESIS questionnaire survey of members of the Latin American Thyroid Society (LATS)
Authors: Cassemiro Jessica F. , Ilera Veronica , Batalles Stella , Reyes Adriana , Nagy Endre V. , Papini Enrico , Perros Petros , Hegedüs Laszlo , Ramos Helton Estrela
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Inconsistencies in the medical management of hypothyroidism have been reported between endocrinologists in different countries. This study aimed to identify the attitudes of Latin America thyroid specialists towards the use of thyroid hormones.

Methods

Online survey of members of the Latin America Thyroid Society.

Results

81/446 (18.2%) completed the questionnaire. Levothyroxine (LT4) was the initial treatment of choice for all respondents. 56.8% would consider LT4 use in biochemically euthyroid patients: infertile women with elevated anti-thyroid antibodies (46.9%), resistant depression (17.3%) and growing goiter (12%). Most respondents preferred tablets (39.5%) over liquid formulations (21.0%) or soft gel capsules (22.2%) and would not consider switching formulations in patients with persistent symptoms. 39.5% would never use LT4 + liothyronine (LT3) combination therapy in symptomatic euthyroid patients, due to low quality evidence for benefit. 60.5% reported that persistence of symptoms despite normal TSH is rare (below 5% of patients) and its prevalence has been stable over the last five years. Psychosocial factors (84.0%), comorbidities (86.4%) and the patient unrealistic expectation (72.8%) were considered the top three explanations for this phenomenon.

Conclusion

LT4 tablets is the treatment of choice for hypothyroidism. A significant proportion of respondents would use LT4 in some groups of euthyroid individuals, contrasting the recommendations of the major clinical practice guideline indications. LT4 + LT3 combination treatment in euthyroid symptomatic patients was considered by nearly 50%. Practices based on weak or absent evidence included use of thyroid hormones for euthyroid subjects by 56.8% of respondents and use of LT4 + LT3 treatment by 60.5% of respondents for patients with persistent symptoms. In contrast to many European countries, LATS respondents report a low and unchanged proportion of dissatisfied patients over the last five years.
Cystine/glutamate antiporter xCT deficiency reduces metastasis without impairing immune system function in breast cancer mouse models
Authors: Ruiu Roberto , Cossu Chiara , Iacoviello Antonella , Conti Laura , Bolli Elisabetta , Ponzone Luca , Magri Jolanda , Rumandla Alekya , Calautti Enzo , Cavallo Federica
Published: September 2023

Background

The upregulation of antioxidant mechanisms is a common occurrence in cancer cells, as they strive to maintain balanced redox state and prevent oxidative damage. This includes the upregulation of the cystine/glutamate antiporter xCT, which plays a crucial role in protecting cancer cells from oxidative stress. Consequently, targeting xCT has become an attractive strategy for cancer treatment. However, xCT is also expressed by several types of immune cells where it has a role in proliferation and effector functions. In light of these observations, a comprehensive understanding of the specific role of xCT in the initiation and progression of cancer, as well as its potential impact on the immune system within the tumor microenvironment and the anti-tumor response, require further investigation.

Methods

We generated xCTnull BALB/c mice to investigate the role of xCT in the immune system and xCTnull/Erbb2-transgenic BALB-neuT mice to study the role of xCT in a mammary cancer-prone model. We also used mammary cancer cells derived from BALB-neuT/xCTnull mice and xCTKO 4T1 cells to test the contribution of xCT to malignant properties in vitro and in vivo.

Results

xCT depletion in BALB-neuT/xCTnull mice does not alter autochthonous tumor initiation, but tumor cells isolated from these mice display proliferation and redox balance defects in vitro. Although xCT disruption sensitizes 4T1 cells to oxidative stress, it does not prevent transplantable tumor growth, but reduces cell migration in vitro and lung metastasis in vivo. This is accompanied by an altered immune cell recruitment in the pre-metastatic niche. Finally, systemic depletion of xCT in host mice does not affect transplantable tumor growth and metastasis nor impair the proper mounting of both humoral and cellular immune responses in vivo.

Conclusions

xCT is dispensable for proper immune system function, thus supporting the safety of xCT targeting in oncology. Nevertheless, xCT is involved in several processes required for the metastatic seeding of mammary cancer cells, thus broadening the scope of xCT-targeting approaches.
Chronic stress induces pulmonary epithelial cells to produce acetylcholine that remodels lung pre-metastatic niche of breast cancer by enhancing NETosis
Authors: Pan Jun , Zhang Leyi , Wang Xiaomei , Li Lili , Yang Chenghui , Wang Zhen , Su Ke , Hu Xiaoxiao , Zhang Yi , Ren Guohong , Jiang Jiahuan , Li Peng , Huang Jian
Published: September 2023

Background

Chronic stress promotes most hallmarks of cancer through impacting the malignant tissues, their microenvironment, immunity, lymphatic flow, etc. Existing studies mainly focused on the roles of stress-induced activation of systemic sympathetic nervous system and other stress-induced hormones, the organ specificity of chronic stress in shaping the pre-metastatic niche remains largely unknown. This study investigated the role of chronic stress in remodeling lung pre-metastatic niche of breast cancer.

Methods

Breast cancer mouse models with chronic stress were constructed by restraint or unpredictable stress. Expressions of tyrosine hydroxylase, vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT), EpCAM and NETosis were examined by immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy. mRNA and protein levels of choline acetyltransferase (ChAT), VAChT, and peptidylarginine deiminase 4 were detected by qRT-PCR and Western blotting, respectively. Immune cell subsets were analyzed by flow cytometry. Acetylcholine (ACh) and chemokines were detected by ELISA and multi chemokine array, respectively. ChAT in lung tissues from patients was examined by immunohistochemistry.

Results

Breast cancer-bearing mice suffered chronic stress metastasized earlier and showed more severe lung metastasis than did mice in control group. VAChT, ChAT and ChAT+ epithelial cells were increased significantly in lung of model mice undergone chronic stress. ACh and chemokines especially CXCL2 in lung culture supernatants from model mice with chronic stress were profoundly increased. Chronic stress remodeled lung immune cell subsets with striking increase of neutrophils, enhanced NETosis in lung and promoted NETotic neutrophils to capture cancer cells. ACh treatment resulted in enhanced NETosis of neutrophils. The expression of ChAT in lung tissues from breast cancer patients with lung metastasis was significantly higher than that in patients with non-tumor pulmonary diseases.

Conclusions

Chronic stress promotes production of CXCL2 that recruits neutrophils into lung, and induces pulmonary epithelial cells to produce ACh that enhances NETosis of neutrophils. Our findings demonstrate for the first time that chronic stress induced epithelial cell derived ACh plays a key role in remodeling lung pre-metastatic niche of breast cancer.
Leading reasons for antibiotic prescriptions in pediatric respiratory infections: influence of fever in a primary care setting
Authors: Picca Marina , Carrozzo Romeo , Milani Gregorio Paolo , Corsello Antonio , Macchi Marina , Buzzetti Roberto , Marchisio Paola , Mameli Chiara
Published: September 2023

Background

Antibiotic overuse in children is a significant public health concern, as it can lead to the emergence and spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Although respiratory infections account for most antibiotic prescriptions in children, many of these infections are viral and do not require antibiotics. In this study, we aimed to investigate the use of antibiotics in children with respiratory infections in a primary care setting and to explore the possible role of fever on antibiotic prescription.

Methods

We conducted a prospective observational study that evaluated preschool children aged 0–5 years who were assessed by their primary care pediatricians for respiratory infectious diseases between October 2019 and March 2021. The study involved 69 public primary care pediatricians and a total of 678 pediatric episodes for respiratory infections.

Results

Amoxicillin/clavulanate was the most frequently prescribed drug. Bronchitis accounted for most of inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions (73%). Furthermore, the presence of fever was associated with a ~ 300% increase in the likelihood of prescribing antibiotics for respiratory infections that do not typically require antibiotics.

Conclusion

Our findings emphasize the need for adherence to international guidelines and recommendations in the primary care of children to reduce unnecessary antibiotic use and prevent the development of antibiotic resistance. This study also underscores the potential relevance of new studies to evaluate antibiotic prescription attitudes in other clinical settings and geographical areas.
Year 2022: exploring COVID-19 pandemic in children
Authors: Bozzola Elena , Caffarelli Carlo , Santamaria Francesca , Corsello Giovanni
Published: September 2023

COVID-19 pandemics is rapidly changing. In this article, we review progresses published in the Italian Journal of Pediatrics in 2022. More data on clinical pictures, prevention strategies and active management in children have been provided. The continued evolution of knowledge has driven transformations in the clinical approach to the disease and allowed key advancements in the care of children with COVID-19.
Tamoxifen-predictive value of gene expression signatures in premenopausal breast cancer: data from the randomized SBII:2 trial
Authors: Lundgren Christine , Tutzauer Julia , Church Sarah E. , Stål Olle , Ekholm Maria , Forsare Carina , Nordenskjöld Bo , Fernö Mårten , Bendahl Pär-Ola , Rydén Lisa
Published: September 2023

Background

Gene expression (GEX) signatures in breast cancer provide prognostic information, but little is known about their predictive value for tamoxifen treatment. We examined the tamoxifen-predictive value and prognostic effects of different GEX signatures in premenopausal women with early breast cancer.

Methods

RNA from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tumor tissue from premenopausal women randomized between two years of tamoxifen treatment and no systemic treatment was extracted and successfully subjected to GEX profiling (n = 437, NanoString Breast Cancer 360™ panel). The median follow-up periods for a recurrence-free interval (RFi) and overall survival (OS) were 28 and 33 years, respectively. Associations between GEX signatures and tamoxifen effect were assessed in patients with estrogen receptor-positive/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (ER+ /HER2−) tumors using Kaplan–Meier estimates and Cox regression. The prognostic effects of GEX signatures were studied in the entire cohort. False discovery rate adjustments (q-values) were applied to account for multiple hypothesis testing.

Results

In patients with ER+/HER2− tumors,FOXA1expression below the median was associated with an improved effect of tamoxifen after 10 years with regard to RFi (hazard ratio [HR]FOXA1(high) = 1.04, 95% CI = 0.61–1.76, HRFOXA1(low) = 0.30, 95% CI = 0.14–0.67,qinteraction = 0.0013), and a resembling trend was observed forAR(HRAR(high) = 1.15, 95% CI = 0.60–2.20, HRAR(low) = 0.42, 95% CI = 0.24–0.75,qinteraction = 0.87). Similar patterns were observed for OS. Tamoxifen was in the same subgroup most beneficial for RFi in patients with lowESR1expression (HRRFiESR1(high) = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.43–1.35, HRRFi,ESR1(low) = 0.56, 95% CI = 0.29–1.06,qinteraction = 0.37). Irrespective of molecular subtype, higher levels ofESR1, Mast cells, andPGRon a continuous scale were correlated with improved 10 years RFi (HRESR1 = 0.80, 95% CI = 0.69–0.92,q = 0.005; HRMast cells = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.65–0.85,q < 0.0001; and HRPGR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.68–0.89,q = 0.002). For BC proliferation and Hypoxia, higher scores associated with worse outcomes (HRBCproliferation = 1.54, 95% CI = 1.33–1.79,q < 0.0001; HRHypoxia = 1.38, 95% CI = 1.20–1.58,q < 0.0001). The results were similar for OS.

Conclusions

Expression ofFOXA1is a promising predictive biomarker for tamoxifen effect in ER+/HER2− premenopausal breast cancer. In addition, each of the signatures BC proliferation, Hypoxia, Mast cells, and the GEX ofAR,ESR1,andPGRhad prognostic value, also after adjusting for established prognostic factors.

Trial registrationThis trial was retrospectively registered in the ISRCTN database the 6th of December 2019, trial ID:https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/ISRCTN12474687.
happi: a hierarchical approach to pangenomics inference
Authors: Trinh Pauline , Clausen David S. , Willis Amy D.
Published: September 2023

Recovering metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) from shotgun sequencing data is an increasingly common task in microbiome studies, as MAGs provide deeper insight into the functional potential of both culturable and non-culturable microorganisms. However, metagenome-assembled genomes vary in quality and may contain omissions and contamination. These errors present challenges for detecting genes and comparing gene enrichment across sample types. To address this, we propose , an approach to testing hypotheses about gene enrichment that accounts for genome quality. We illustrate the advantages of over existing approaches using published Saccharibacteria MAGs,Streptococcus thermophilusMAGs, and via simulation.
Exosomes secreted by endothelial cells derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells improve recovery from myocardial infarction in mice
Authors: Li Hao , Wang Lu , Ma Teng , Liu Zhongmin , Gao Ling
Published: September 2023

Background

Human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived endothelial cells (hiPSC-ECs) exhibit the potential to repair the injured heart after myocardial infarction (MI) by promoting neovascularization and cardiomyocyte survival. However, because of the low cellular retention and poor engraftment efficacy, cell therapy of MI is partly mediated by exosomes secreted from the transplanted cells. In this study, we investigated whether exosomes secreted from hiPSC-ECs could become a promising acellular approach to repair the infarcted heart after MI and elucidated the underlying protective mechanism.

Methods

The hiPSC-ECs were differentiated, and exosomes were isolated in vitro. Then, hiPSC-EC exosomes were delivered by intramyocardial injection in a murine MI model in vivo. Echocardiography, combined with hemodynamic measurement, histological examination, Ca2+transient and cell shortening assessment, and Western blot, was used to determine the protective effects of hiPSC-EC exosomes on the infarcted heart. Furthermore, microRNA sequencing, luciferase activity assay, and microRNA gain–loss function experiments were performed to investigate the enriched microRNA and its role in exosome-mediated effects.

Results

In vitro, the hiPSC-EC exosomes enhanced intracellular Ca2+transients, increased ATP content, and improved cell survival to protect cardiomyocytes from oxygen–glucose deprivation injury. Congruously, hiPSC-EC exosome administration in vivo improved the myocardial contractile function and attenuated the harmful left ventricular remodeling after MI without increasing the frequency of arrhythmias. Mechanistically, the hiPSC-EC exosomes notably rescued the protein expression and function of the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ATPase 2a (SERCA-2a) and ryanodine receptor 2 (RyR-2) to maintain intracellular Ca2+homeostasis and increase cardiomyocyte contraction after MI. The microRNA sequencing showed that miR-100-5p was the most abundant microRNA in exosomes. miR-100-5p could target protein phosphatase 1β (PP-1β) to enhance phospholamban (PLB) phosphorylation at Ser16and subsequent SERCA activity, which contributes to the hiPSC-EC exosome-exerted cytoprotective effects on maintaining intracellular Ca2+homeostasis and promoting cardiomyocyte survival.

Conclusion

The hiPSC-EC exosomes maintain cardiomyocyte Ca2+homeostasis to improve myocardial recovery after MI, which may provide an acellular therapeutic option for myocardial injury.
CD73 mediates the therapeutic effects of endometrial regenerative cells in concanavalin A-induced hepatitis by regulating CD4+ T cells
Authors: Qin Hong , Sun Chenglu , Kong Dejun , Zhu Yanglin , Shao Bo , Ren Shaohua , Wang Hongda , Zhang Jingyi , Xu Yini , Wang Hao
Published: September 2023

Background

As a kind of mesenchymal-like stromal cells, endometrial regenerative cells (ERCs) have been demonstrated effective in the treatment of Concanavalin A (Con A)-induced hepatitis. However, the therapeutic mechanism of ERCs is not fully understood. Ecto-5`-nucleotidase (CD73), an enzyme that could convert immune-stimulative adenosine monophosphate (AMP) to immune-suppressive adenosine (ADO), was identified highly expressed on ERCs. The present study was conducted to investigate whether the expression of CD73 on ERCs is critical for its therapeutic effects in Con A-induced hepatitis.

Methods

ERCs knocking out CD73 were generated with lentivirus-mediated CRISPR-Cas9 technology and identified by flow cytometry, western blot and AMPase activity assay. CD73-mediated immunomodulatory effects of ERCs were investigated by CD4+ T cell co-culture assay in vitro. Besides, Con A-induced hepatitis mice were randomly assigned to the phosphate-buffered saline treated (untreated), ERC-treated, negative lentiviral control ERC (NC-ERC)-treated, and CD73-knockout-ERC (CD73-KO-ERC)-treated groups, and used to assess the CD73-mediated therapeutic efficiency of ERCs. Hepatic histopathological analysis, serum transaminase concentrations, and the proportion of CD4+ T cell subsets in the liver and spleen were performed to assess the progression degree of hepatitis.

Results

Expression of CD73 on ERCs could effectively metabolize AMP to ADO, thereby inhibiting the activation and function of conventional CD4+ T cells was identified in vitro. In addition, ERCs could markedly reduce levels of serum and liver transaminase and attenuate liver damage, while the deletion of CD73 on ERCs dampens these effects. Furthermore, ERC-based treatment achieved less infiltration of CD4+ T and Th1 cells in the liver and reduced the population of systemic Th1 and Th17 cells and the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IFN-γ and TNF-α, while promoting the generation of Tregs in the liver and spleen, while deletion of CD73 on ERCs significantly impaired their immunomodulatory effects locally and systemically.

Conclusion

Taken together, it is concluded that CD73 is critical for the therapeutic efficiency of ERCs in the treatment of Con A-induced hepatitis.
Role of YAP in hematopoietic differentiation and erythroid lineage specification of human-induced pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Laowtammathron Chuti , Lorthongpanich Chanchao , Jiamvoraphong Nittaya , Srisook Pimonwan , Klaihmon Phatchanat , Kheolamai Pakpoom , Luanpitpong Sudjit , Issaragrisil Surapol
Published: September 2023

Background

In vitro production of hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs) from human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) provides opportunities for fundamental research, disease modeling, and large-scale production of HLA-matched HSPCs for therapeutic applications. However, a comprehensive understanding of the signaling mechanisms that regulate human hematopoiesis is needed to develop a more effective procedure for deriving HSPCs from hiPSCs.

Methods

In this study, we investigate the role of YAP during the hematopoietic differentiation of hiPSCs to HSPCs and erythrocytes using the isogenic YAP-overexpressing (YAP-S5A) and YAP-depleting (YAP-KD) hiPSCs to eliminate the effects of a genetic background variation.

Results

Although YAP is dispensable for maintaining the self-renewal and pluripotency of these hiPSCs, it affects the early cell-fate determination and hematopoietic differentiation of hiPSCs. Depleting YAP enhances the derivation efficiency of HSPCs from hiPSCs by inducing the mesodermal lineage commitment, promoting hematopoietic differentiation, and preventing the differentiation toward endothelial lineage. On the contrary, the overexpression of YAP reduced HSPCs yield by inducing the endodermal lineage commitment, suppressing hematopoietic differentiation, and promoting the differentiation toward endothelial lineage.

Conclusions

Expression of YAP is crucial for the differentiation of hiPSC-derived HSPCs toward mature erythrocytes. We believe that by manipulating YAP activity using small molecules, the efficiency of the large-scale in vitro production system for generating hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells for future therapeutic use could be improved.
Pampean megamammals in Europe: the fossil collections from Santiago Roth
Authors: Voglino Damián , Carrillo-Briceño Jorge D. , Furrer Heinz , Balcarcel Ana , Rangel-de Lazaro Gizeh , Aguirre Fernández Gabriel , Forasiepi Analía M.
Published: September 2023

Santiago Roth was a Swiss fossil finder, naturalist, and paleontologist that emigrated to Argentina in 1866. His work largely influenced the discipline in the country at the end of the twentieth century, particularly the stratigraphy of the Pampean region. Some of his collections of Pampean fossils were sold to museums and private collectors in Europe and were accompanied by elaborated catalogues. Fossils in the Roth’s catalogues N° 2 and 3 are housed today in the Natural History Museum of Denmark, fossils from catalogues N° 4 to 6, were sold to Swiss museums, with Catalogue N° 5 currently housed at the Department of Paleontology, Universität Zürich. Here, we provide a general framework on the stratigraphy from the Roth’s Pampean fossil sites, summarize the history of the Pampean fossils in Europe originally collected by Roth, and provide historical and curatorial details of the Roth’s collection at the Department of Paleontology, Universität Zürich.
On fractional biparameterized Newton-type inequalities
Authors: Saleh Wedad , Lakhdari Abdelghani , Abdeljawad Thabet , Meftah Badreddine
Published: September 2023

In this work, we present a novel biparameterized identity that yields a family of one-, two-, three-, and four-point Newton-type formulas. Subsequently, we establish some new Newton-type inequalities for functions whose first derivatives are α-convex. The investigation is concluded with numerical examples accompanied by graphical representations to substantiate the accuracy of the obtained results.
Some estimates for commutators of the fractional maximal function on stratified Lie groups
Authors: Wu Jianglong , Zhao Wenjiao
Published: September 2023

In this paper, the main aim is to consider the boundedness of the nonlinear commutator $[b, M_{\alpha}]$
[
b
,

M
α

]
and the maximal commutator $M_{\alpha ,b}$

M

α
,
b

on the Lebesgue spaces over some stratified Lie group $\mathbb{G}$
G
when the symbol b belongs to the Lipschitz space. As a result, some new characterizations of the Lipschitz spaces on Lie group via $[b, M_{\alpha}]$
[
b
,

M
α

]
and $M_{\alpha ,b}$

M

α
,
b

are given.
Relationship between cortisol and diabetic microvascular complications: a retrospective study
Authors: Sun Shengnan , Wang Yangang
Published: September 2023

Objective

We aimed to investigate whether serum cortisol associate with diabetic microvascular compliments in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Materials and methods

The subjects were recruited from hospitalized patients with T2DM from 2019 to 2021. The odds ratios (OR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) in relation to cortisol quartiles were obtained by multiple logistic regression analysis.

Results

(1) Cortisol level was positively correlated with the severity of microalbuminuria. The OR (95% CI) of microalbuminuria and macroalbuminuria in the last quartile were 3.396 (2.030, 5.682) and 8.407 (3.726, 18.971) compared with the first quartile (p < 0.001). (2) Cortisol level was positively correlated with the severity of diabetic retinopathy (DR). The OR (95% CI) of non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy group (NPDR) and proliferative diabetic retinopathy group (PDR) in the last quartile were 2.007 (1.401, 2.875) and 7.122 (2.525, 20.090) compared with the first quartile. (3) Elevated cortisol level was associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy. The OR (95% CI) of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) in the last quartile was 1.956 (1.371, 2.792) and that in the third quartile was 1.854 (1.319, 2.608).

Conclusions

High serum cortisol levels were significantly associated with diabetic microvascular compliments in inpatients. Its causality remains to be further studied.

Clinical trial registration number: ChiCTR2100051749.
A two-week exercise intervention improves cold symptoms and sleep condition in cold-sensitive women
Authors: Yamazaki Fumio , Inoue Kana , Ohmi Nanako , Okimoto Chika
Published: September 2023

Background

We examined whether an aerobic exercise intervention in young women with cold sensitivity symptoms improves sleep quality and decreases cold complaints. Furthermore, we examined the association with increased foot skin temperature (Tsk) before falling asleep and decrease in sensitivity to cold in the brain.

Methods

We recruited 16 female adult volunteers who had cold sensitivity and were not engaged in daily exercise training, and they were divided into an exercise group (EXE) and a control group (CON). EXE was given a 2-week exercise intervention that consisted mainly of walking and jogging. Before and after the intervention, temperature sensation and body temperature parameters were measured just before bedtime; electroencephalogram measurements were taken during sleep; and subjective sleep surveys, including Oguri-Shirakawa-Azumi (OSA) sleep inventory (middle-aged and aged version) and visual analogue scale (VAS), were conducted immediately after waking up. All experiments were performed in the winter season.

Results

In EXE, overall and foot warmth and comfort increased (p < 0.05) after the 2-week exercise intervention. The exercise intervention also decreased (p < 0.05) the scores for cold feeling in the fingertips, feet, and toes. In the OSA sleep inventory, factor IV (refreshing) and factor V (sleep length) were increased (p < 0.05) by the exercise intervention. Subjective sleep quality evaluated by VAS increased (p < 0.05) with exercise intervention. The exercise intervention in EXE shortened middle awake time after sleep onset (p < 0.05) and prolonged deep sleep length (p < 0.05). The exercise intervention increased (p < 0.05) alpha-wave power before sleep. In CON, all variables remained unchanged throughout the 2-week control period.

Conclusion

Short-term aerobic exercise alleviated peripheral extremity cold sensitivity symptoms and improved subjective sleep quality. Our findings suggest that these improvements were not due to increased Tsk at rest before bedtime but to decreased sensitivity to cold in the brain that was expressed as increased alpha activity.
A case report assessing the utility of a low-cost tracking GPS device for monitoring terrestrial mammal movements
Authors: Moore Claire , Beaman Julian , Brice Marnie , Burke da Silva Karen
Published: September 2023

Background

Accurate data on animal movements can highlight behavioural and ecological issues, such as territorial interactions, barriers to migration patterns, including compromised movement corridors, or avoidance of deteriorating habitats, and disease transmission, thus helping in conservation decision making. This study examines the utility of mOOvement global positioning system (GPS) tags, a low-cost cattle ear tag tracking device to monitor movements of terrestrial mammal populations in South Australia.

Results

Stationary tags (n = 40) were used to test horizontal accuracy with a median location error of 33.26 m (IQR = 16.9–59.4), and maximum recorded error of 410 m. The locational accuracy was weakly influenced by the horizontal dilution of precision (HDOP), a measure of satellite availability and geometry, and overhead canopy cover. Numerous tags produced infrequent and inconsistent readings, median of 12 records per day (IQR = 6–12), correlating negatively with the tag’s distance from the centrally located LoRa antenna; however, some tags recorded fewer than one position per day.

Conclusions

We propose that the primary cause of mOOvement tag inadequacy is the use of only the GPS satellite constellation (USA, 1978), which does not provide adequate coverage in either satellite number or geometry in the sky at the − 35° latitude to calculate accurate positions regularly over 24 h, unlike the multiple constellations available in the global navigation satellite system (GNSS). We conclude that GPS tags are unsuitable for studies requiring high locational accuracy or identification of an individual’s social interactions, where the GPS constellation has a limited number of satellites available during prolonged periods. They can, however, be used to provide estimates of home range size or track large scale daily movements of animals in more equatorially located regions.
The impact of technology on promoting physical activities and mental health: a gender-based study
Authors: Liu Yangyang , Zhang Hongxue , Xu Ruilin
Published: September 2023

Background

Physical inactivity is a significant public health concern globally, associated with an increased risk of chronic diseases and detrimental effects on both physical and mental health. Technologically based interventions have emerged as a potential solution to promote physical activity engagement and improve mental health outcomes. However, understanding the effectiveness of these interventions and the role of gender in their outcomes is essential for developing tailored strategies.

Objective

This study aims to examine the effectiveness of technologically based interventions in promoting physical activity and improving mental health outcomes, with a specific focus on gender differences.

Methodology

This study employed a three-phase mixed methods research design. Phase one was an experimental phase where 300 participants were randomly assigned to intervention or control groups. The intervention group received a technologically based physical activity intervention, while the control group did not. Physical activity levels and mental health outcomes were assessed before and after the intervention. Phase two involved qualitative interviews with a subset of participants (n = 20) from the intervention group. These interviews explored motivations and barriers to physical activity, aiming to uncover personal factors influencing engagement. Thematic analysis was used to identify recurring themes. Phase three utilized a quantitative survey to compare motivations and barriers between males and females. The survey, administered to a larger sample, included participants from both intervention and control groups. It assessed various factors and allowed for a quantitative comparison of gender differences.

Findings

findings indicated that the intervention improved the mental health and physical activities level of the intervention groups. Findings also there are 8 motivations for and barriers to using technology in physical activities. Male and females’ scores on some of the motivations and barriers were statistically significant.

Conclusion

technology plays an important role in improving the mental health and physical activities of adults. Findings can be used by health care centers, digital psychologists, and physical trainers.
Co-creation of a patient engagement strategy in cancer research funding
Authors: Taccone Michael S. , Baudais Nathalie , Wood Don , Bays Suzanne , Frost Sasha , Urquhart Robin , Graham Ian D. , Takacs Judit
Published: September 2023

Background

As research teams, networks, and institutes, and health, medical, and scientific communities begin to build consensus on the benefits of patient engagement in cancer research, research funders are increasingly looking to meaningfully incorporate patient partnership within funding processes and research requirements. The Canadian Cancer Society (CCS), the largest non-profit cancer research funder in Canada, set out to co-create a patient engagement in cancer research strategy with patients, survivors, caregivers and researchers. The goal of this strategy was to meaningfully and systematically engage with patients in research funding and research activities.

Methods

A team of four patient partners with diverse cancer and personal experiences, and two researchers at different career stages agreed to participate as members of the strategy team. Ten staff members participated in supportive roles and to give context regarding different departments of CCS. The strategy was co-developed in 2021/2022 over a series of 7 workshops using facilitation strategies such as ground rules and consensus building, and methods such as Design Thinking. The strategy was subjected to 3 rounds of validation.

Results

The co-creation and validation process resulted in a multi-faceted strategy with actionable sections, including vision, guiding principles, engagement methods, 13 prioritized engagement activities spanning the spectrum of research funding, and an evaluation framework. The experience of co-creating the strategy was captured using the Patient and Public Engagement Evaluation Tool and revealed a positive, supportive experience.

Conclusions

Lessons learned included the value of an emphasis on a co-creation process from day one, the utility of facilitation techniques such as ground rules for dialogue, consensus building and Design Thinking, and the importance (and challenge) of designing for and incorporating equity when drafting the strategy. Future work will include implementation and evaluation of the strategy, as well as an examination of further ways to meaningfully and systematically engage diverse voices in research and research funding.
Robust quantitative estimation of the seismic attenuation from shallow geotechnical borehole VSP data
Authors: Nasr Maher , Giroux Bernard , Fabien-Ouellet Gabriel , Vergniault Christophe , Simon Cyril
Published: September 2023

Estimating seismic attenuation from shallow geotechnical borehole surveys can be a delicate task. Measured data are often collected within the source near-field domain and the classic inverse-distance correction of the geometric spreading (GS) is inappropriate at this scale. We develop a novel approach based on a 3D full-waveform modeling to substitute the inverse-distance correction. It consists of scaling the picked amplitudes using their counterparts obtained from an elastic simulation carried out under conditions mimicking the data acquisition. The seismic attenuation may be inferred from the corrected amplitudes using either a piecewise regression or a ray-based inversion. Numerical experiments involving P- and S-wave synthetic data indicate that our correction better compensates for the GS effect than the inverse-distance correction. For a synthetic example with 5% noise, the Q-factor values derived from amplitude corrected via the proposed approach have a relative error of approximately 10% compared with 40% for the traditional correction. We investigate the effect of the velocity and density uncertainty upon the calculated correction terms and show that our approach is unbiased and stable. Finally, the robustness of our workflow is assessed on a real case study involving a P-wave data set acquired in a geotechnical borehole.
Modeling the seismic wavefield of moving marine vibrator source
Authors: Almuteri Khalid , Shragge Jeffrey , Sava Paul
Published: September 2023

Marine vibrators are an emerging alternative to conventional air guns in ocean-bottom acquisition due to their ability to generate low-frequency waves and limited adverse impact on marine wildlife. However, using marine vibrators introduces challenges not found in conventional air-gun-based acquisition where receivers are placed on the ocean bottom, including handling the phenomena associated with the Doppler effect and time-dependent source-receiver offsets due to the source motion. Standard seismic data processing solutions assume stationary sources and receivers for the duration of any seismic experiment (e.g., a shot); however, accurately accounting for source motion effects in processing is critical for optimal subsurface imaging. To address these challenges, we develop a finite-difference approach for modeling the full acoustic wavefield in a generalized coordinate system that tracks a moving source. Synthetic examples demonstrate that this technique accurately and stably models high-velocity moving sources and accurately accounts for the wavefield distortion predicted by the Doppler effect. This approach is not limited to modeling wavefield propagation for a moving source and can be used to develop advanced imaging and inversion techniques (e.g., reverse time migration and full waveform inversion) for data acquired using marine vibrators. In addition, the developed approach is not only limited to modeling mobile sources but also can model conventional towed-streamer data.
Systemic Therapy for Tumor Control in Metastatic Well-Differentiated Gastroenteropancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors: ASCO Guideline
Authors: Del Rivero Jaydira , Perez Kimberly , Kennedy Erin B. , Mittra Erik S. , Vijayvergia Namrata , Arshad Junaid , Basu Sandip , Chauhan Aman , Dasari Arvind N. , Bellizzi Andrew M. , Gangi Alexandra , Grady Erin , Howe James R. , Ivanidze Jana , Lewis Mark , Mailman Josh , Raj Nitya , Soares Heloisa P. , Soulen Michael C. , White Sarah B. , Chan Jennifer A. , Kunz Pamela L. , Singh Simron , Halfdanarson Thorvardur R. , Strosberg Jonathan R. , Bergsland Emily K.
Published: September 2023

PURPOSE

To develop recommendations for systemic therapy for well-differentiated grade 1 (G1) to grade 3 (G3) metastatic gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NETs).

METHODS

ASCO convened an Expert Panel to conduct a systematic review of relevant studies and develop recommendations for clinical practice.

RESULTS

Eight randomized controlled trials met the inclusion criteria for the systematic review.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Somatostatin analogs (SSAs) are recommended as first-line systemic therapy for most patients with G1-grade 2 (G2) metastatic well-differentiated GI-NETs. Observation is an option for patients with low-volume or slow-growing disease without symptoms. After progression on SSAs, peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) is recommended as systematic therapy for patients with somatostatin receptor (SSTR)–positive tumors. Everolimus is an alternative second-line therapy, particularly in nonfunctioning NETs and patients with SSTR-negative tumors. SSAs are standard first-line therapy for SSTR-positive pancreatic (pan)NETs. Rarely, observation may be appropriate for asymptomatic patients until progression. Second-line systemic options for panNETs include PRRT (for SSTR-positive tumors), cytotoxic chemotherapy, everolimus, or sunitinib. For SSTR-negative tumors, first-line therapy options are chemotherapy, everolimus, or sunitinib. There are insufficient data to recommend particular sequencing of therapies. Patients with G1-G2 high-volume disease, relatively high Ki-67 index, and/or symptoms related to tumor growth may benefit from early cytotoxic chemotherapy. For G3 GEP-NETs, systemic options for G1-G2 may be considered, although cytotoxic chemotherapy is likely the most effective option for patients with tumor-related symptoms, and SSAs are relatively ineffective. Qualifying statements are provided to assist with treatment choice. Multidisciplinary team management is recommended, along with shared decision making with patients, incorporating their values and preferences, potential benefits and harms, and other characteristics and circumstances, such as comorbidities, performance status, geographic location, and access to care. Additional information is available at www.asco.org/gastrointestinal-cancer-guidelines .
Understanding Barriers and Facilitators to High-Quality Cancer Care Among Veterans With Lung Cancer: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Lopez Christopher , Murillo Ariana , Das Millie , Patel Manali I.
Published: September 2023

PURPOSE

Veteran populations have higher lung cancer incidence and worse overall survival compared with non-Veteran populations. Although recent clinical advancements have reduced lung cancer death rates, these advances are not routinely received among Veteran populations because of multilevel factors, including Veterans' complex comorbidities, limited health literacy, and other economic and social disadvantages. This study aimed to assess Veterans' perspectives regarding their lung cancer care with a specific focus on identifying modifiable barriers to evidence-based care delivery.

METHODS

We conducted 1:1 semistructured interviews with 24 Veterans diagnosed with lung cancer at the Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System. All interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using the constant comparative method of qualitative analysis.

RESULTS

Four themes emerged. These included (1) social and economic disadvantages can prevent routine delivery of evidence-based cancer care; (2) fragmented care contributes to worsening patient mental and emotional well-being; (3) lack of health system interventions to address limited health literacy inhibits patient engagement in shared decision making regarding diagnosis, genomic and molecular testing, targeted and other treatments, and end-of-life care; and (4) deep appreciation for care and VA trustworthiness facilitates adherence to cancer care recommendations.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed critical gaps in lung cancer care delivery and the role of institution-engendered trust in overcoming barriers in the VA system. Targeted solutions should address the identified barriers to routine, evidence-based lung cancer care delivery among Veterans.
Topological features of Bloch impedance
Authors: Tsukerman Igor , Markel Vadim A.
Published: September 2023

The bulk-boundary correspondence (b-bc) principle states that the presence and number of evanescent bandgap modes at an interface between two periodic media depend on the topological invariants (Chern numbers in 2D or Zak phases in 1D) of propagating modes at completely different frequencies in all Bloch bands below that bandgap. The objective of this letter is to explain, on physical grounds, this connection between modes with completely different characteristics. We assume periodic lossless 1D structures and lattice cells with mirror symmetry; in this case the Zak phase is unambiguously defined. The letter presents a systematic study of the behavior of electromagnetic Bloch impedance, defined as the ratio of electrical and magnetic fields in a Bloch wave at the boundary of a lattice cell. The impedance-centric view confers transparent physical meaning on the bulk-boundary correspondence principle. Borrowing from the semiconductor terminology, we classify the bandgaps as p- and n-type at the Γ and X points, depending on whether the Bloch impedance has a pole (p) or a null (n) at the bottom of that gap. An interface mode exists only for pn-junctions per our definition. We expect these ideas to be extendable to problems in higher dimensions, with a variety of emerging applications.
Mutation in the FUS nuclear localisation signal domain causes neurodevelopmental and systemic metabolic alterations
Authors: Ali Zeinab , Godoy-Corchuelo Juan M. , Martins-Bach Aurea B. , Garcia-Toledo Irene , Fernández-Beltrán Luis C. , Nair Remya R. , Spring Shoshana , Nieman Brian J. , Jimenez-Coca Irene , Bains Rasneer S. , Forrest Hamish , Lerch Jason P. , Miller Karla L. , Fisher Elizabeth M. C. , Cunningham Thomas J. , Corrochano Silvia
Published: September 2023

Variants in the ubiquitously expressed DNA/RNA-binding protein FUS cause aggressive juvenile forms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Most FUS mutation studies have focused on motor neuron degeneration; little is known about wider systemic or developmental effects. We studied pleiotropic phenotypes in a physiological knock-in mouse model carrying the pathogenic FUSDelta14 mutation in homozygosity. RNA sequencing of multiple organs aimed to identify pathways altered by the mutant protein in the systemic transcriptome, including metabolic tissues, given the link between ALS-frontotemporal dementia and altered metabolism. Few genes were commonly altered across all tissues, and most genes and pathways affected were generally tissue specific. Phenotypic assessment of mice revealed systemic metabolic alterations related to the pathway changes identified. Magnetic resonance imaging brain scans and histological characterisation revealed that homozygous FUSDelta14 brains were smaller than heterozygous and wild-type brains and displayed significant morphological alterations, including a thinner cortex, reduced neuronal number and increased gliosis, which correlated with early cognitive impairment and fatal seizures. These findings show that the disease aetiology of FUS variants can include both neurodevelopmental and systemic alterations.
Estimation of the Compositional Proportions of Different Micelle Species in Water: Application of One-dimensional Aggregate Theory to Small Angle Neutron Scattering Analyzed Data
Authors: Okabayashi Hiro-Fumi , Sasuga-Araki Sonoko , Izawa Ken-Ichi , O’Connor Charmian J
Published: September 2023

The one-dimensional aggregation theory was applied to the small angle neutron scattering (SANS) analyzed data of surfactant solutions. Plots of the hydrophobic bonding energy E to form an aggregate against the number-average aggregation number n were found to be powerful to estimate the compositional ratios of different aggregate species co-existing in a gross sample solution.
Monetary Policy in Sudden Stop-Prone Economies
Authors: Coulibaly Louphou
Published: September 2023

This paper proposes a parsimonious theory explaining the cyclicality of monetary policy in emerging countries in a model where access to foreign financing depends on the real exchange rate and the government lacks commitment. The discretionary monetary policy is procyclical to mitigate balance sheet effects originating from exchange rate depreciations during sudden stops. Committing to an inflation targeting regime is found to increase social welfare and reduce the frequency of financial crises despite increasing their severity. Finally, the ability to use capital controls induces a less procyclical discretionary monetary policy and delivers higher welfare gains than an inflation targeting regime. (JEL E31, E32, E44, E52, F31, F33, F38)
Taxation of Consumption and Labor Income: A Quantitative Approach
Authors: Parodi Francesca
Published: September 2023

I quantitatively characterize optimal consumption and labor income taxes in a structural life-cycle model of household consumption, saving, and employment choices that allows for irreversibility of durable goods and preference heterogeneity. I find that durables should be subsidized and nondurables should be taxed at a uniform rate. The durable subsidy is driven by the life-cycle features of the model together with durables’ irreversibility and borrowing constraints. Uniform taxation on nondurables holds under exogenous and endogenous—fully or weakly separable—labor supply and it relies on homogeneity of intertemporal preferences. Allowing for government’s equity concerns, I show that the model rationalizes the tax practice. (JEL D15, G51, H21, H23, H24, H31, J22)