bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Circulating Tumor DNA Enables Sensitive Detection of Actionable Gene Fusions and Rearrangements Across Cancer Types
Authors: Kasi Pashtoon M. , Lee Jessica K. , Pasquina Lincoln W. , Decker Brennan , Vanden Borre Pierre , Pavlick Dean C. , Allen Justin M. , Parachoniak Christine , Quintanilha Julia C. F. , Graf Ryon P. , Schrock Alexa B. , Oxnard Geoffrey R. , Lovly Christine M. , Tukachinsky Hanna , Subbiah Vivek
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

Genomic rearrangements can generate potent oncogenic drivers or disrupt tumor suppressor genes. This study examines the landscape of fusions and rearrangements detected by liquid biopsy (LBx) of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) across different cancer types.

Experimental Design:

LBx from 53,842 patients with 66 solid tumor types were profiled using FoundationOneLiquid CDx, a hybrid-capture sequencing platform that queries 324 cancer-related genes. Tissue biopsies (TBx) profiled using FoundationOneCDx were used as a comparator.

Results:

Among all LBx, 7,377 (14%) had ≥1 pathogenic rearrangement detected. A total of 3,648 (6.8%) LBx had ≥1 gain-of-function (GOF) oncogene rearrangement, and 4,428 (8.2%) LBx had ≥1 loss-of-function rearrangement detected. Cancer types with higher prevalence of GOF rearrangements included those with canonical fusion drivers: prostate cancer (19%), cholangiocarcinoma (6.4%), bladder (5.5%), and non–small cell lung cancer (4.4%). Although the prevalence of driver rearrangements was lower in LBx than TBx overall, the frequency of detection was comparable in LBx with a tumor fraction (TF) ≥1%. Rearrangements in FGFR2, BRAF, RET, and ALK, were detected across cancer types, but tended to be clonal variants in some cancer types and potential acquired resistance variants in others.

Conclusions:

In contrast to some prior literature, this study reports detection of a wide variety of rearrangements in ctDNA. The prevalence of driver rearrangements in tissue and LBx was comparable when TF ≥1%. LBx presents a viable alternative when TBx is not available, and there may be less value in confirmatory testing when TF is sufficient.
Long-Term Treatment of Unresectable Pseudomyxoma Peritonei with Multiple Treatments of Intratumoural Bromelain and Acetylcysteine (BromAc®): A Case Report
Authors: Yang Jessica , Glenn Derek , Lodh Suhrid , Valle Sarah , Morris David Lawson
Published: December 2023

Pseudomyxoma peritonei is a rare peritoneal malignancy characterized by the progressive accumulation of mucinous material and tumour within the abdomen and pelvis. Percutaneous drainage of mucin may be a non-surgical option for relief of symptoms; however, it remains difficult due to the high viscosity of mucin, with numerous case reports reporting difficulty removing material through medium-bore catheters alone. BromAc is a therapy currently undergoing development which dissolves mucinous tumour masses and allows for extraction. This report describes the case of a patient who has had multiple treatments with BromAc over 4 years.
LncRNA FGD5-AS1 Alleviates Inflammation in Allergic Rhinitis through the miR-223-3p/COX11 Axis
Authors: Li Binbin , Yu Xiaoping , Pang Fuzhen
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of allergic rhinitis (AR). The current investigation is focused on elucidating the functional impact of a specific lncRNA, FGD5 antisense RNA 1 (FGD5-AS1), on the development and progression of AR through its interaction with miR-223-3p. Methods: An experimental framework for AR was constructed in both cellular and animal models. Quantitative assessment of FGD5-AS1, miR-223-3p, and COX11 mRNA expression was conducted using real-time quantitative reverse transcription PCR. The expression of inflammatory factors, immunoglobulin E, LTC4, and ECP, was examined using ELISA. Apoptosis in human nasal epithelial cells was assessed by the flow cytometry method. The protein expression of COX11 was examined using Western blotting. Nasal mucosal function was further evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin staining. Furthermore, bioinformatics evaluations, dual-luciferase reporter assays, and a series of experimental procedures unveiled a putative competitive endogenous RNA regulatory mechanism. Results: We found the expression of lncRNA FGD5-AS1 was decreased in AR. In vitro lncRNA FGD5-AS1 attenuated the production of inflammatory cytokines in nasal epithelial cells. Furthermore, elevated FGD5-AS1 expression significantly alleviated AR symptoms by reducing nasal epithelial apoptosis and inflammation. MiR-223-3p was identified as a direct target of FGD5-AS1. Moreover, miRNA-223-3p directly downregulated the expression of COX11 mRNA. Subsequent experiments confirmed that FGD5-AS1 regulated AR through the miR-223-3p/COX11 axis, thereby inhibiting inflammation. Conclusion: The FGD5-AS1/miR-223-3p/COX11 axis plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of AR, suggesting that FGD5-AS1 could serve as a potential diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target for AR.
THE CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF ARABICA AND ROBUSTA GREEN COFFEE BEANS FROM GEOPARK RINJANI, INDONESIA
Authors: Zainuri  , Paramartha Dewa Nyoman Adi , Fatinah Amira , Nofrida Rini , Rahayu Novia , Anggraini Ines Marisya Dwi , Utama Qabul Dinanta
Published: December 2023

Green coffee beans are also called unroasted coffee beans. The chemical composition of green coffee beans plays a vital role in determining the final product’s aroma. The main objective of this research was to characterize the chemical properties of Arabica and Robusta green coffee beans grown in different regions of Geopark Rinjani, Lombok Island, Indonesia. The water, ash, protein, carbohydrate, total solids, and caffeine contents, total acidity, and pH were determined. Data were analyzed by analysis of variance. The results revealed significant differences in the moisture contents of Arabica beans from Sembalun, Sajang, and Sapit and Robusta beans from Rempek, Selelos, and Genggelang. Additionally, the ash contents of Arabica Sajang and Arabica Sapit showed notable differences compared to other samples. However, the total fat contents of Arabica Sajang, Arabica Sapit, Robusta Rempek, and Robusta Genggelang did not exhibit significant variations. On the other hand, significant differences were observed in the protein contents of all samples, particularly between Arabica Sembalun and Arabica Sapit, compared to Arabica Sajang, Robusta Rempek, Robusta Genggelang, and Robusta Selelos. Robusta coffee beans appeared to have a slightly lower pH than Arabica beans. The latter exhibited consistent acidity in the range of 0.20–0.21, whereas the former showed higher acidity levels (0.23–0.25). Arabica beans had a lower caffeine content, averaging 1.09%, whereas Robusta beans exhibited an average caffeine content of 2.09%. This research provides valuable insights into the chemical composition of green coffee beans from different species and locations within Geopark Rinjani, contributing to a better understanding of the factors influencing the aroma and quality of coffee.
Fundamentação científica do princípio da similitude na farmacologia moderna. 2ª ed.
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Medicina, Teixeira Marcus Zulian
Published: December 2023

Realizando a ponte entre a farmacologia homeopática (princípio da similitude) e a farmacologia moderna, encontramos uma infinidade de relatos, tanto em compêndios farmacológicos como em experimentos e ensaios clínicos publicados em periódicos científicos, que descrevem uma reação do organismo oposta e secundária a uma ação primária da droga, confirmando a teoria hahnemanniana. Essa ação secundária do organismo, no sentido de manter a homeostase orgânica, é denominada de efeito rebote ou reação paradoxal segundo a racionalidade científica moderna, sendo usada pela homeopatia como resposta terapêutica. Esta obra é o primeiro volume da coleção Novos Medicamentos Homeopáticos: uso dos fármacos modernos segundo o princípio da similitude.
Perforating pancreatic injury
Authors: Koyama Leonardo Kenji Sakaue , Cincoto Alissom Vitti , Silva Francisco de Sales Collet e , Pflug Adriano Meyer , Utiyama Edivaldo Massazo
Published: December 2023

Perforating Pancreatic Injury (PPI) is an uncommon event in trauma centers. One of its uncommon complications is Pancreatic Fluid Collection (PFC), which was only studied in acute pancreatitis cases. Other of its rare, but most feared complications is the Major Pancreatic Duct (MPD) disconnection, that most authors recommend to be treated immediately. We report a successful case of PPI that was initially approached by videolaparoscopy, had a infected PFC formation that was drained by endoscopy and a posterior MPD disconnection. In conclusion, we suggest that videolaparoscopy is possible in patients with PPI and minimally invasive approaches in the acute phase may postpone more aggressive procedures to an elective and well planned approach.
Mitochondriogenesis and brain aging
Authors: Sekiya Felipe Seiti , Marie Suely Kazue Nagahashi
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Mitochondriogenesis is the cellular process responsible for the generation of new mitochondria and consists of the replication of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and the organelle division. Several studies suggest mitochondriogenesis is regulated by oxidative stress through a molecular pathway that involves the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC-1α) and the mitochondrial transcription factors A, B1 and B2 (TFAM, TFB1M, TFB2M). According to the Mitochondrial Theory of Aging, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated in oxidative phosphorylation damage mitochondrial macromolecules, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction and signaling for cellular senescence. Since oxidative stress plays an important role in both mitochondriogenesis and aging, the amount of mitochondria in a tissue may be a biomarker of senescence and age-related diseases. Objective: The objective of the present study is to analyze the variation of mtDNA content in brain tissue with aging and how the expressions of PGC-1α, TFAM, TFB1M and TFB2M are related to this process. Methods: 60 samples of human brain were collected during autopsy procedures, as well as the clinical history of each donator. Their DNA and RNA were extracted and their mtDNA copy number and expressions of PGC-1α, TFAM, TFB1M and TFB2M were determined through quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The raw data was submitted to statistical analysis. Results: A direct correlation between mtDNA content and age was found among specimens with more than 1000 copies (p = 0,0067). In the population with less than 1000 copies, no correlation was observed. It was also found that the expressions of PGC-1α, TFAM, TFB1M and TFB2M have a good correlation among each other, but none of them correlated to mtDNA copy number or age.Discussion and conclusion: The amount of mitochondria in brain tissue varies differently with aging among population. While some individuals are prone to increase mitochondriogenesis with aging, others keep it low throughout life. It is possible that these 2 subgroups are under the influence of different factors, apart from the molecular pathway of PGC-1α, TFAM, TFB1M and TFB2M. Interestingly, individuals with propensity to mtDNA content increase also have higher body mass index and higher expression of the studied genes among diabetics. This findings suggest that metabolic disorders, besides being a risk factor for several diseases, may be also related to mitochondriogenesis increase in brain aging. Therefore, the results achieved in the present study reinforce the hypothesis that the mitochondrial content in a tissue may be a biomarker of senescence and age-related diseases.
Artery dissection as an cause of ischemic stroke in hebiatric patient: a case report
Authors: Borges Lucas Lourencio , Tosta Iara , Maciel Giovana Figueiredo , Tosta Kaio Igor
Published: December 2023

Introduction: The dissection of cervical artery is characterized by laceration in the intima layer that results in a reduction in the lumen of the affected artery causing obstruction of blood flow. This block, partially or totally, is responsible for only a small portion of stroke in adults. However, in patients under 40 years old dissection of the cervical artery is a very common cause of this type of stroke. For this reason, early recognition of this condition in young patients is essential for the adequate clinical intervention. Objective: To report a case of ischemic stroke resulting from cervical artery dissection in a hebiatric patient. Case report: FSM, male, 16 years old, arrived at the neurological center complaining of headache in the occipital region that started eight days ago. He also reported asthenia, photophobia and discrete dysarthria. The physical examination showed bilateral dysdiadocosinesia and positive Romberg. An computed tomography scan of the skull and an MRI were then requested, in which the white and gray substances in the cerebellar hemispheres were hypodensitive, suggestive of ischemic stroke. For the etiological diagnosis, an angioresonance of cervical vessels was performed, which showed dissection of the cervical artery. After diagnostic confirmation, the patient was treated with antithrombotic and anticoagulant, progressing satisfactorily. The incidence of isquemic stroke resulting from dissection of the cervical arteries is a rare condition, affecting about 2.5 / 100,000 people per year. The dissection result in stroke in only 2% of all cases. However, analyzing only cases among young patients the dissection results in stroke in 22.5%. Presentation of multiple intraxial lesions with T2 hypersignal associated with asymmetry of the vertebral arteries with a small narrowed segment are highly suggestive if not specific for ischemic stroke. The early diagnosis of this clinical condition is extremely important for the patient’s satisfactory evolution, since metabolic changes resulting from ischemia result in a decrease in the production of ATP in the infarcted region, which impairs, temporarily or permanently, the main functions of this region. The dissection of cervical arteries, due to its low incidence, is a disorder still under diagnosed. Its late identification results in an increase in the incidence of PICs, especially in young patients. The early recognition of this pathology is essential for an early and effective treatment that reduces the possibility of permanent neurological injuries that would decrease the quality of life of these patients.
Uso da modelagem de equações estruturais na compreensão da incapacidade funcional de idosos com catarata autorreferida
Authors: Cabral Vinício Soares , Oliveira Nayara Gomes Nunes , Ikegami Érica Midori , Oliveira Neilzo Nunes , Tavares Darlene Mara dos Santos
Published: December 2023

Objetivo: Verificar as associações diretas e indiretas entre variáveis demográficas, econômicas, biopsicossociais e comportamentais com a incapacidade funcional de idosos com catarata autorreferida. Método: Estudo transversal entre 260 idosos com catarata autorreferida e residentes na área urbana de uma microrregião de saúde de Minas Gerais. A coleta dos dados foi realizada nos domicílios mediante a aplicação de instrumentos validados no Brasil. Procederam-se as análises descritiva e de trajetórias (p<0,05). Resultados: O declínio funcional ocorreu de forma hierárquica. O pior desempenho físico associou-se diretamente à maior incapacidade funcional para as atividades básicas (p= 0,003), instrumentais (p<0,001) e avançadas (p= 0,003) da vida diária. A inatividade física esteve associada diretamente à maior incapacidade funcional para as atividades instrumentais (p<0,001) e avançadas (p<0,001). A menor escolaridade (p= 0,020), o maior número de sintomas depressivos (p<0,001) e o menor escore de apoio social (p<0,001) associaram-se diretamente à maior incapacidade funcional para as atividades avançadas, tal como a maior idade (p= 0,001) para as instrumentais. Observaram-se associações indiretas, mediadas pelo pior desempenho físico, entre o sexo feminino e o maior número de morbidades com a incapacidade funcional para as três atividades da vida diária. Conclusão: Idosos com catarata autorreferida apresentaram comprometimento da capacidade funcional relacionado à idade mais avançada, à baixa escolaridade, ao pior desempenho físico, à inatividade física, à presença de sintomas depressivos e ao menor nível de apoio social.
Effect of Dapagliflozin Versus Placebo on Symptoms and 6-Minute Walk Distance in Patients With Heart Failure: The DETERMINE Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: McMurray John J.V. , Docherty Kieran F. , de Boer Rudolf A. , Hammarstedt Ann , Kitzman Dalane W. , Kosiborod Mikhail N. , Maria Langkilde Anna , Reicher Barry , Senni Michele , Shah Sanjiv J. , Wilderäng Ulrica , Verma Subodh , Solomon Scott D.
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND:

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors reduce the risk of worsening heart failure (HF) and cardiovascular death in patients with HF irrespective of left ventricular ejection fraction. It is important to determine whether therapies for HF improve symptoms and functional capacity.

METHODS:

The DETERMINE (Dapagliflozin Effect on Exercise Capacity Using a 6-Minute Walk Test in Patients With Heart Failure) double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter trials assessed the efficacy of the sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor dapagliflozin on the Total Symptom Score (TSS) and Physical Limitation Scale (PLS) of the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ) and 6-minute walk distance (6MWD) in 313 patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction (DETERMINE-Reduced) and in 504 patients with HF with preserved ejection fraction (DETERMINE-Preserved) with New York Heart Association class II or III symptoms and elevated natriuretic peptide levels. The primary outcomes were changes in the KCCQ-TSS, KCCQ-PLS, and 6MWD after 16 weeks of treatment.

RESULTS:

Among the 313 randomized patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction, the median placebo-corrected difference in KCCQ-TSS from baseline at 16 weeks was 4.2 (95% CI, 1.0, 8.2;
P
=0.022) in favor of dapagliflozin. The median placebo-corrected difference in KCCQ-PLS was 4.2 (95% CI, 0.0, 8.3;
P
=0.058). The median placebo-corrected difference in 6MWD from baseline at 16 weeks was 3.2 meters (95% CI, −6.5, 13.0;
P
=0.69).

In the 504 patients with HF with preserved ejection fraction, the median placebo-corrected 16-week difference in KCCQ-TSS and KCCQ-PLS was 3.2 (95% CI, 0.4, 6.0;
P
=0.079) and 3.1 (−0.1, 5.4;
P
=0.23), respectively. The median 16-week difference in 6MWD was 1.6 meters (95% CI, −5.9, 9.0;
P
=0.67). In an exploratory post hoc analysis of both trials combined (DETERMINE-Pooled), the median placebo-corrected difference from baseline at 16 weeks was 3.7 (1.5, 5.9;
P
=0.005) for KCCQ-TSS, 4.0 (0.3, 4.9;
P
=0.036) for KCCQ-PLS, and 2.5 meters (−3.5, 8.4;
P
=0.50) for 6MWD.

CONCLUSIONS:

Dapagliflozin improved the KCCQ-TSS in patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction but did not improve KCCQ-PLS or 6MWD. Dapagliflozin did not improve these outcomes in patients with HF with preserved ejection fraction. In a post hoc analysis including all patients across the full spectrum of ejection fraction, there was a beneficial effect of dapagliflozin on KCCQ-TSS and KCCQ-PLS but not 6MWD.

REGISTRATION:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifiers: NCT03877237 and NCT03877224.
Early Experience and Lessons Learned Using Implanted Hemodynamic Monitoring in Patients With Fontan Circulation
Authors: Marshall William H. , Rajpal Saurabh , Mah May Ling , Armstrong Aimee K. , Salavitabar Arash , Hickey Jenne , Metzger Rachel , Sisk Tracey , Daniels Curt J.
Published: December 2023

Background

Data on the use of implanted hemodynamic monitoring (IHM) in patients with Fontan circulation are limited. This study reports our experience using the CardioMEMS HF system in adults with Fontan circulation.

Methods and Results

This single‐center, retrospective study evaluated heart failure hospitalizations, procedural complications, and device‐related complications in patients with Fontan circulation referred for IHM placement (2015–2022). The association of pulmonary artery pressure (by most recent catheterization and median IHM pressure within 30 days of placement) with both death and follow‐up Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease Excluding International Normalized Ratio score were evaluated. Of 18 patients referred for IHM placement, 17 were successful (median age, 30 [range 21–48] years, 6 women). Procedural complications (access site hematomas, pulmonary artery staining) occurred in 3 patients, without device‐related procedural complications. In follow‐up (median, 35 [range, 6–83] months), 1 patient developed a pulmonary embolism (possibly device‐related). Heart failure hospitalizations/year were similar before and after IHM (median, 1 [interquartile range, 0–1.0] versus 0.6 [0–2.3];
P
=0.268), though only 46% of heart failure hospitalizations had associated IHM transmissions. IHM pressures were associated with Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease Excluding International Normalized Ratio scores (
R
2
=0.588,
P
<0.001), though catheterization pressures were not (
R
2
=0.140,
P
=0.139). The long‐term mortality rate was 53% in this cohort. On unadjusted survival analysis, IHM pressures ≥18 mm Hg were associated with mortality (log rank
P
=0.041), which was not reproduced with catheterization pressures (log rank
P
=0.764).

Conclusions

In patients with Fontan circulation, IHM did not reduce heart failure hospitalizations, though patient adherence to transmission was low. Device‐related complications were low. IHM pressures may better represent real‐life conditions compared with catheterization given associations with mortality and Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease Excluding International Normalized Ratio score.
Time Window for Induced Hypertension in Acute Small Vessel Occlusive Stroke With Early Neurological Deterioration
Authors: Jung Hee-Jae , Ryu Jae-Chan , Joon Kim Bum , Kang Dong-Wha , Kwon Sun U. , Kim Jong S. , Chang Jun Young
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND:

Therapeutic-induced hypertension treatment (iHTN) is helpful for alleviating early neurological deterioration (END) in acute small vessel occlusive stroke. We examined the time parameters related to iHTN effectiveness in these patients.

METHODS:

We retrospectively reviewed patients with acute small vessel occlusive stroke who underwent iHTN for END, defined as an increase of ≥2 points in total National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score or ≥1 point in motor items of NIHSS. The primary outcome was an early neurological improvement (ENI; a decrease of ≥2 points in total NIHSS score or ≥1 point in motor items of NIHSS), and the secondary outcome was any neurological improvement (a decrease of ≥1 point in the total NIHSS score). We conducted a multivariable logistic regression analysis, adjusting for demographics, risk factors, baseline clinical status, and intervention-related variables. We also generated a restricted cubic spline curve for the END-to-iHTN time cutoff.

RESULTS:

Among the 1062 patients with small vessel occlusive stroke screened between 2017 and 2021, 136 patients who received iHTN within 24 hours from END were included. The mean age was 65.1 (±12.0) years, and 61.0% were male. Sixty-five (47.8%) patients showed ENI and 77 (56.6%) patients showed any neurological improvement. END-to-iHTN time was significantly shorter in patients with ENI (150 [49–322] versus 290 [97–545] minutes;
P
=0.018) or any neurological improvement (150 [50–315] versus 300 [130–573] minutes;
P
=0.002). A 10-minute increase in the time between END and iHTN decreased the odds of achieving ENI (odds ratio, 0.984 [95% CI, 0.970–0.997];
P
=0.019) or any neurological improvement (odds ratio, 0.978 [95% CI, 0.964–0.992];
P
=0.002). The restricted cubic spline curve showed that the odds ratio of ENI reached its minimum at ≈3 hours.

CONCLUSIONS:

Among patients with small vessel occlusive stroke with END, a shorter interval between END and the initiation of iHTN was associated with increased odds of achieving neurological improvement. The efficacy of iHTN may be limited to induction within the first 3 hours of END.
Impact of Cervical Vertebral Artery Tortuosity on the Outcome After Mechanical Thrombectomy for Basilar Artery Occlusion
Authors: Ryu Jae‐Chan , Choi Yun Hyeok , Kwon Boseong , Song Yunsun , Lee Deok Hee , Chang Jun Young , Kang Dong‐Wha , Kwon Sun U. , Kim Jong S. , Kim Bum Joon
Published: December 2023

Background

Vascular tortuosity affects the outcomes of mechanical thrombectomy (MT). We classified vertebral artery (VA) tortuosity into 3 types and investigated the effect of VA tortuosity on the outcomes in patients with basilar artery occlusion.

Methods

We retrospectively included patients who underwent MT for basilar artery occlusion between January 2012 and May 2022. Clinical and procedure‐related factors were obtained. VA tortuosity was classified into 3 types: type I: nontortuous VA; type II: S‐shaped vessel or a VA with a single acute angulation (<90°); and type III: coiled vessel, kinked vessel, or a VA with acute angulation in >1 location. The 3‐month modified Rankin scale, procedural outcomes, and post‐MT intracranial hemorrhage were assessed.

Results

A total of 106 patients with basilar artery occlusion were included. Age, baseline stroke severity, and 3‐month modified Rankin scale score were significantly different according to VA tortuosity (
P
= 0.003,
P
= 0.002, and
P
<0.001, respectively). A multivariable analysis demonstrated that the VA tortuosity was a predictor for the achievement of modified Rankin scale score of 0 to 3 (type I: reference; type II: odds ratio [OR] = 0.26, 95% CI = 0.07–0.95,
P
= 0.041; type III: OR = 0.12, 95% CI = 0.02–0.82,
P
= 0.031). Moreover, type III was associated with less successful recanalization (type I: reference; type III: OR = 0.12, 95% CI = 0.02–0.84,
P
= 0.032) and had a potential trend for post‐MT intracranial hemorrhage (type I: reference; type III: OR = 3.09, 95% CI = 0.83–11.56,
P
= 0.094).

Conclusion

We classified VA tortuosity into 3 types and showed the association between VA tortuosity and stroke outcomes after MT for basilar artery occlusion. Particularly, the mechanisms of poor outcomes in highly tortuous VA might be associated with baseline stroke severity, recanalization failure, and post‐MT intracranial hemorrhage.
Functional Cerebral Venous Anatomy: A Perspective on Venous Collaterals Part II, Infratentorial Venous System
Authors: Ota Takahiro
Published: December 2023

The infratentorial veins are densely packed in a smaller space compared to the supratentorial veins and have many variations, such as disconnections and anastomoses. Knowledge of the functional venous anatomy of the posterior fossa is becoming increasingly important in neurointerventional procedures. The basic brainstem veins are longitudinal and transverse veins. The venous drainage of the brainstem and cerebellum follows 3 paths: superior (Galenic), anterior (petrosal), and posterior (torcular). Knowledge of the basic venous anatomy of the brainstem and cerebellum is essential for understanding the routes and patterns of venous drainage under pathological conditions, particularly in arteriovenous shunts. This review describes posterior fossa venous development and the functional venous anatomy of the posterior fossa, mainly the veins of the brainstem, cerebellum, and the emissary veins.
Three new species of temporary fish parasite, Gnathiid Isopods (Crustacea: Isopoda: Cymothoida) from Kuwait
Authors: KHALAJI-PIRBALOUTY VALIALLAH , AL-KANDARI MANAL ABDULRAHMAN
Published: December 2023

Gnathiid isopods (Crustacea) were collected between 2014 and 2022 from various sites in shallow waters of the Kuwait coasts. Three new species of gnathiids are described: Caecognathia alsalmiyah sp. nov. is characterised by the well-extended, distally pointed with three cusps supraocular lobe and the presence of pylopod with four articles; Elaphognathia alshumaimah sp. nov. is distinguished from its congeners by having an elongated, distally curved mandible, with a single pronounced conical internal lobe; Gnathia kuwaitensis sp. nov. is easily distinguished from the other species of the genus Gnathia by the conical mediofrontal process, which is slightly sunken and having pronounced superior frontolateral process, with median notch distally.
Sensitivity analysis of the impact of environmental product declaration values on whole life carbon assessment: A case study using expanded polystyrene insulation for the retrofit of a building in Turkiye
Authors: Arslan Dilek , Mohammadpourkarbasi Haniyeh , Sharples Steve
Published: December 2023

Until recently, reducing the energy required to service a building (the operational energy) was the main aim of controlling carbon emissions from the built environment. It is now recognised that the energy required to make a building (the embodied energy) also has a crucial role in creating a net zero carbon future. The methodologies for quantifying embodied carbon are less developed than those for operational carbon, and more research is required to refine the embodied carbon metrics used when a building’s whole-life carbon emissions are calculated in a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). One such metric is the Environmental Product Declaration (EPD), a document which can be used in different countries to quantify a product's environmental performance. EPDs are crucial data for conducting an LCA study of a building. However, despite recent efforts to standardise them, there are still inconsistencies between EPDs produced by different countries or manufacturers, even for materials with similar thermal and physical properties. This study considered some of the reasons for variations in EPDs for one product type, expanded polystyrene insulation (EPS). Factors such as (i) the LCA databases and software generators used for the EPDs, (ii) material mixes and manufacturing methods, (iii) country energy production mixes, and (iv) transportation distance from material source to the factory were considered in the analysis. As a case study, this paper examined the effects of selecting different EPDs for expanded polystyrene insulation on the final LCA results from the retrofit of a mid-rise residential building in Turkiye. Differences in EPDs demonstrated a fourfold difference between the highest and lowest upfront carbon impact results of building retrofit. This size of discrepancy indicates the need to choose the most appropriate EPD for a building/location when performing an LCA.

Practical Applications

Selecting an EPD when conducting an LCA for a new building or retrofit is generally left to the assessor’s judgment and knowledge, which varies greatly depending on the assessor’s background, especially in the construction sector. This study suggests an informed decision-making method over an example of EPS insulation material when the EPD options were none or limited to building locations like Turkiye.
‘Take Up Your Mat and Walk’: [Dis-] Abled Bodies of Communication and Early Christian Wandering
Authors: Lawrence Louise J.
Published: December 2023

Early Christianity relied heavily on walking, yet New Testament Studies has largely neglected the cultural significance of walking in the ancient world and its connection to Early Christian communication. Walking, often seen as a conscious cultural act, is often overlooked in scholarly discourse, with the focus primarily on its symbolic aspects. Drawing from interdisciplinary research in classics, cultural studies, and social science, this study aims to explore how early Christian bodily movement and communication have been perceived and culturally appropriated in European and North American scholarship. It presents three case studies: the portrayal of disabled bodies’ movements in healings, the interpretation of Jesus and his disciples as itinerant wanderers, and the examination of walking in Pauline literature as a means of profiling missionary success.
Brazilian National Network of Alternative Methods (RENAMA) 10th Anniversary: Meeting of the Associated Laboratories, May 2022
Authors: Ivan de Ávila Renato , Fentem Julia , Villela Izabel , Somlo Debora , Fusco Almeida Ana Marisa , Mendes-Giannini Maria José S. , Di Pietro Micali Canavez Andrezza , Bosquetti Bruna , Catarino Carolina Motter , Schuck Desiree Cigaran , Valadares Bruna Nardy , Facchini Gustavo , Marigliani Bianca , Migliorini Figueira Ana Carolina , Hickson Rosângela , Leme Daniela Morais , Tagliati Carlos , de Souza Larissa C.R. , Maria Engler Silvya Stuchi , Gaspar Cordeiro Lorena Rigo , Koepp Janice , Granjeiro Jose Mauro , de Mello Brandao Humberto , Munk Michele , Antunes de Mattos Katherine , Pedralli Bruna , Siqueira Furtuoso Rodrigues Marcella Miranda , Stival Ana Clara , Andrade Jordana , Brito Lara Barroso , Marques dos Santos Thais Rosa , Leite Jacqueline , Garcia da Silva Artur Christian , Valadares Marize Campos
Published: December 2023

The Brazilian National Network of Alternative Methods (RENAMA), which is linked to the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, is currently comprised of 51 laboratories from CROs, academia, industry and government. RENAMA’s aim is to develop and validate new approach methodologies (NAMs), as well as train researchers and disseminate information on their use — thus reducing Brazilian, and consequently Latin American, dependence on external technology. Moreover, it promotes the adoption of NAMs by educators and trained researchers, as well as the implementation of good laboratory practice (GLP) and the use of certified products. The RENAMA network started its activities in 2012, and was originally comprised of three central laboratories — the National Institute of Metrology, Quality and Technology (INMETRO); the National Institute of Quality Control in Health (INCQS); and the National Brazilian Biosciences Laboratory (LNBio) — and ten associated laboratories. In 2022, RENAMA celebrated its 10th anniversary, a milestone commemorated by the organisation of a meeting attended by different stakeholders, including the RENAMA-associated laboratories, academia, non-governmental organisations and industry. Ninety-six participants attended the meeting, held on 26 May 2022 in Balneário Camboriú, SC, Brazil, as part of the programme of the XXIII Brazilian Congress of Toxicology 2022. Significant moments of the RENAMA were remembered, and new goals and discussion themes were established. The lectures highlighted recent innovations in the toxicological sciences that have translated into the assessment of consumer product safety through the use of human-relevant NAMs instead of the use of existing animal-based approaches. The challenges and opportunities in accepting such practices for regulatory purposes were also presented and discussed.
Difficulty of Identification of Official Tactile Walking Surface Indicators Using the Foot in Japan
Authors: Toyoda Wataru , Ogata Masaki
Published: December 2023

In Japan, following an accident wherein a visually impaired was hit by a train inside a railroad crossing, the installation of tactile walking surface indicators (TWSIs) at railroad crossings have become widespread. Attention and guiding patterns as well as escort patterns have been installed in front and inside railroad crossings, respectively. However, the extent to which the latter is more discriminable than the former has not been verified. This study determined the ease of identifying the Japanese official TWSIs and both patterns using the soles of the feet. Twenty blindfolded participants used TWSIs, scanned the raised surfaces with their soles, and responded to the type of TWSIs using three-alternative forced-choice. Compared with attention and guiding, escort patterns were misidentified with subjective sureness and long identification times. In about 90% of times that attention and guiding patterns were incorrectly identified, they were misidentified as escort patterns. The escort patterns were misidentified as attention patterns in about 70% of the times in which they were misidentified. Trials with misidentification had significantly longer identification times and lower sureness (but moderate sureness) than trials with correct identification. Approach angles to TWSIs had practically no effect on the identification. When escort patterns are installed inside the railroad crossings and attention and guiding patterns are installed outside, the visually impaired may misidentify them and accidentally enter or stay at the railroad crossing. Therefore, new installation methods to effectively identify all TWSIs, especially escort patterns, or develop new TWSIs with superior ease of identification should be verified.
Simulation and experimental research on the abrasive trajectories of plane lapping based on rotary swing drive
Authors: Zhu Jianhui , Gao Hang , Xu Yuchun , Zhao Yanjun , Wang Ningchang , Shi Chaoyu
Published: December 2023

In the pursuit of achieving exceptional surface shape accuracy for MPCVD (Microwave Plasma Chemical Vapor Deposition) polycrystalline diamond wafers during the free abrasive lapping process, plane lapping based on rotary swing drive was employed in this study. The crux of this study lay in the development of a comprehensive kinematic model, scrutinizing the motion behavior of abrasive particles, and probing the influence of parameters on the uniformity of abrasive trajectories. The results show that the eccentricity, arc chord length and speed ratio affect the probability of track coincidence rate, and then affect the distribution uniformity. And then the verification experiments solidifying the reliability of our kinematic model and affirming the veracity of simulation results. The best surface shape accuracy ( PV) of the MPCVD polycrystalline diamond wafer was 2.3 μm under optimal parameters, representing a substantial advancement compared to the original lapping method, which only yielded a PV value of 8.4 μm. This study provides a promising method for high surface shape accuracy of MPCVD polycrystalline diamond wafers with large sizes.
Event-triggered communication for H∞ synchronization and synchronization of multi-weighted coupled neural networks with and without uncertain parameters
Authors: Wang Yihao
Published: December 2023

In this paper, the problems of H ∞ synchronization and synchronization of multi-weighted coupled neural networks (MWCNNs) with event-triggered communication are studied. By using Lyapunov stability theory and some inequality techniques, synchronization and H ∞ synchronization criteria of MWCNNs with event-triggered communication are established. Moreover, the parameter uncertainty in the system dynamics is considered. Thus, robust synchronization and robust H ∞ synchronization strategies are also established for MWCNNs with uncertain parameters under the event-triggered communication. Finally, two numerical examples are given to verify the effectiveness of the obtained conditions.
Comprehensive Caregiver Supports and Ascertainment and Treatment of Veteran Pain
Authors: Van Houtven Courtney H. , Smith Valerie A. , Miller Katherine E. M. , Berkowitz Theodore S. Z. , Shepherd-Banigan Megan , Hein Tyler , Penney Lauren S. , Allen Kelli D. , Kabat Margaret , Jobin Timothy , Hastings S. Nicole
Published: December 2023

Disabled Veterans commonly experience pain. The Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) provides training, a stipend, and services to family caregivers of eligible Veterans to support their caregiving role. We compared ascertainment of veteran pain and pain treatment through health care encounters and medications (pain indicators) of participants (treated group) and non-participants (comparison group) using inverse probability treatment weights. Modeled results show that the proportion of Veterans with a pain indicator in the first year post-application was higher than that pre-application for both groups. However, the proportion of Veterans with a pain indicator was substantially higher in the treatment group: 76.1% versus 63.9% in the comparison group ( p < .001). Over time, the proportion of Veterans with any pain indicator fell and group differences lessened. However, differences persisted through 8 years post-application ( p < .001). PCAFC caregivers appear to help Veterans engage in pain treatment at higher rates than caregivers not in PCAFC.
Association Between Individual Differences in Dichotomous Thinking and Current and Childhood High-Crime Environments
Authors: Mieda Takahiro , Yoshino Shinya , Oshio Atsushi
Published: December 2023

The way people perceive the things around them is closely related to living in a complex and challenging social environment. Dichotomous thinking (preference for dichotomy, dichotomous belief, and profit-and-loss thinking), which classifies things in a simple way, can be useful in dangerous and resource-limited environments. However, based on prior studies, people's manner of perceiving things may have developed as a response to the harshness of their childhood environment, and may not be related to their current environment. Therefore, we examined the relationship between individual differences in dichotomous thinking and high-crime environments as indicators of environmental harshness. We assessed dichotomous thinking in 41,284 Japanese residents using large-scale data from the Human Information Database FY19 compiled by NTT DATA Institute of Management Consulting, Inc. The fixed effects regression model showed that, after controlling for age, high-crime environment of the residents’ childhood was associated with dichotomous thinking, with the exception of dichotomous belief. On the other hand, their current environment of crime was not associated. In sum, our research suggests that people's dichotomous thinking tendency may be a form of adaptation to the harshness of their childhood environment rather than their current one.
Dapagliflozin-entresto protected kidney from renal hypertension via downregulating cell-stress signaling and upregulating SIRT1/PGC-1α/Mfn2-medicated mitochondrial homeostasis
Authors: Ko Sheung-Fat , Yang Chih-Chao , Sung Pei-Hsun , Cheng Ben-Chung , Shao Pei-Lin , Chen Yi-Ling , Yip Hon-Kan
Published: December 2023

This study tested whether combined dapagliflozin and entresto would be superior to mere one therapy on protecting the residual renal function and integrity of kidney parenchyma in hypertensive kidney disease (HKD) rat. In vitro results showed that the protein expressions of oxidative-stress/mitochondrial-damaged (NOX-1/NOX-2/oxidized-protein/cytosolic-cytochrome-C)/apoptotic (mitochondrial-Bax/cleaved caspeases 3, 9)/cell-stress (p-ERK/p-JNK/p-p38) biomarkers were significantly increased in H2O2-treated NRK-52E cells than those of controls that were reversed by dapagliflozin or entresto treatment. Adult-male SD rats ( n = 50) were equally categorized into group 1 (sham-operated-control), group 2 (HKD by 5/6 nephrectomy + DOCA-salt/25 mg/kg/subcutaneous injection/twice weekly), group 3 (HKD + dapagliflozin/orally, 20 mg/kg/day for 4 weeks since day 7 after HKD induction), group 4 (HKD + entresto/orally, 100 mg/kg/day for 4 weeks since day 7 after HKD induction), and group 5 (HKD + dapagliflozin + entresto/the procedure and treatment strategy were identical to groups 2/3/4). By day 35, circulatory levels of blood-urine-nitrogen (BUN)/creatinine and urine protein/creatinine ratio were lowest in group 1, highest in group 2, and significantly lower in group 5 than in groups 3/4, but no difference between groups 3/4. Histopathological findings showed the kidney injury score/fibrotic area/cellular expressions of oxidative-stress/kidney-injury-molecule (8-OHdG+/KIM-1+) exhibited an identical trend, whereas the cellular expressions of podocyte components (synaptopodin/ZO-1/E-cadherin) exhibited an opposite pattern of BUN level among the groups. The protein expressions of oxidative stress/mitochondrial-damaged (NOX-1/NOX-2/oxidized protein/cytosolic-cytochrome-C/cyclophilin-D)/apoptotic (mitochondrial-Bax/cleaved-caspase 3)/mitochondrial-fission (PINK1/Parkin/p-DRP1)/autophagic (LC3BII/LC3BI ratio, Atg5/beclin-1)/MAPK-family (p-ERK/p-JNK/p-p38) biomarkers displayed a similar pattern, whereas the protein expression of mitochondria-biogenesis signaling (SIRT1/PGC-1α-Mfn2/complex I-V) displayed an opposite pattern of BUN among the groups. In conclusion, combined dapagliflozin-entresto therapy offered additional benefits on protecting the residual kidney function and architectural integrity in HKD rat.
Extension Practitioners Perception and Constraints on ICT Use in Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Taofeeq Yekinni Oyedeji , Ayotunde Olayinka Owolabi , Kayode Samuel Obaniyi
Published: December 2023

The study examined the perception and constraints of extension practitioners on utilization of communication technologies in southwestern Nigeria. This was necessitated by the need to ensure a practicable, vibrant, and efficient extension service delivery in the study area. 124 public and 41 non-public extension practitioners were selected through a three staged sampling procedure. Questionnaires were used to elicit vital information on their perceptions on ICT use, constraints faced during ICT use and other components. These were analyzed using descriptive statistics, mean difference, PPMC, and independent sample t-test. The results showed that (61.0%) of respondents from non-public organizations fell within those with favorable perception level. Also, (64.50%) of respondents had high level of constraints to ICT access. Moreover, (58.10%) of respondents from the public organizations’ encountered high level of constraint to ICT use. Result showed that respondents from the public extension organizations were more constrained in access to (14.10 ± 3.17) and use of ICT tools (10.84 ± 3.30) and were significant. The study has implications for providing functional ICT tools to the respondents for effective extension delivery. Agricultural extension service organizations should organize more frequent in-house trainings on the benefits of ICT use in relation to their extension work.
Preschoolers Can Match the Facial and Bodily Emotional Expressions: A Behavior and Eye-Tracking Study
Authors: Ren Hanlin , Huang Liang , Du Fangyuan , Huang Wenxin , Lin Guoyao , Kret Mariska E. , Chen Shunsen
Published: December 2023

The preschool age is an important period in the development of children’s emotional abilities. The face and body are both vital carriers of emotional information and adults readily match the emotional cues coming from these two modalities. However, it is unknown whether preschoolers have this ability or not. In the current study, 36 preschoolers (22 boys, aged 44–73 months old) participated in an emotional facial and bodily matching test including angry, happy, and neutral expressions (Experiment 1) and an eye-tracking experiment (Experiment 2). The results show that: (1) preschoolers can accurately match three categories of facial and bodily expressions of emotion (all matching rates were above 93% in Experiment 1); (2) robust emotional matching was observed across conditions in Experiment 2. That is, the eye-tracking indexes including the total fixation duration, the first fixation duration, and the fixation count, all indicated that the preschoolers more thoroughly processed bodily expressions of emotion which were congruent to the facial expressions compared to incongruent bodily expressions of emotion. This study shows that the ability to match facial and bodily expressions of emotion develops at an early age. Preschool children have already reached a high level of this ability.