bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of postoperative adjuvant therapy on EGFR-mutated stage IA lung adenocarcinoma with micropapillary pathological subtypes
Authors: Cheng Ran , Hao Zhexue , Qiu Li , Zheng Xiang , Huang Sihe , Xian Jianzhao , Huang Haoyang , Li Jianfu , Zhang Zhenhui , Ye Kaiwen , Wu Wentao , Zhang Yaowen , Liu Jun
Published: September 2024

Background

Micropapillary (MPP) adenocarcinoma is considered one of the most aggressive pathological types of lung adenocarcinoma (LADC). This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the prognostic significance and benefit of postoperative adjuvant therapy (PAT) in stage IA LADC patients with different proportions of MPP components.

Materials and methods

We retrospectively examined clinical stage IA LADC patients who underwent surgical resection between August 2012 and December 2019. In terms of the proportion of MPP components (TPM), the tumors were reclassified into three categories: MPP patterns absent (TPMN); low proportions of MPP components (TPML); and high proportions of MPP components (TPMH). The dates of recurrence and metastasis were identified based on physical examinations and were confirmed by histopathological examination.

Results

Overall, 505 (TPMN, n = 375; TPML, n = 92; TPMH, n = 38) patients harboring EGFR mutations were enrolled in the study. Male sex (P = 0.044), high pathological stage (P < 0.001), and MPP pathological subtype (P < 0.001) were more frequent in the TPM-positive (TPMP) group than in the TPM-negative (TPMN) group. Five-year disease-free survival (DFS) rates were significantly lower in the TPMP group than in the TPMN group (84.5% vs. 93.4%, P = 0.006). In addition, patients with high proportions (greater than 10%) of MPP components had worse overall survival (OS) (91.0% vs. 98.9%, P = 0.025) than those with low proportions (5%≤ TPM ≤ 10%). However, postoperative EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) or adjuvant chemotherapy (ACT) cannot improve DFS and OS between EGFR-mutated patients with different proportions of MPP components.

Conclusion

MPP was related to earlier recurrence and shortened survival time, even in stage IA. Further research needs a larger sample size to clarify that EGFR-mutated stage IA patients with MPP components obtain survival benefits from adjuvant therapy.
The role of respiratory function tests in infants with stridor: diagnosis at glance and follow-up
Authors: Bloise Silvia , Nenna Raffaella , Petrarca Laura , Conti Maria Giulia , Di Mattia Greta , Matera Luigi , Mancino Enrica , La Regina Domenico Paolo , Lubrano Riccardo , Bonci Enea , Moretti Corrado , Midulla Fabio
Published: September 2024

Background

Recently, the development of advanced, noninvasive methods has allowed the study of respiratory function even in uncooperative infants. To date, there is still little data on the application of this technique in infants with suspected airway obstruction. The aims of our study were:

- To evaluate the role of respiratory function testing (PFR) in the diagnosis and follow-up of infants with stridor

- To evaluate the differences between patients with inspiratory stridor and expiratory stridor.

- To evaluate the concordance between PFR and endoscopy.

Methods

We enrolled infants aged < 1 year with a diagnosis of inspiratory and/or expiratory chronic stridor and a group of healthy controls. For each patient we performed PFR at diagnosis (T0) and for cases at follow-up, at 3 months (T1), 6 months (T2), 12 months (T3). At T0, all patients were classified according to a clinical score, and at follow-up, stature-ponderal growth was assessed.

When clinically indicated, patients underwent bronchoscopy.

Results

We enrolled 48 cases (42 diagnosed with inspiratory stridor and 6 expiratory stridor) and 26 healthy controls. At T0, patients with stridor had increased inspiratory time (p < 0.0001) and expiratory time (p < 0.001) than healthy controls and abnormal curve morphology depending on the type of stridor. At T0, patients with expiratory stridor had a reduced Peak expiratory flow (p < 0.023) and a longer expiratory time (p < 0.004) than patients with inspiratory stridor.

We showed an excellent concordance between PFR and endoscopic examination (k = 0.885, p < 0.0001). At follow-up, we showed a progressive increase of the respiratory parameters in line with the growth.

Conclusions

PFR could help improve the management of these patients through rapid and noninvasive diagnosis, careful monitoring, and early detection of those most at risk.
Live-attenuated PruΔgra72 strain of Toxoplasma gondii induces strong protective immunity against acute and chronic toxoplasmosis in mice
Authors: Li Jing , Kang Yu , Wu Ze-Xuan , Yang Shu-Feng , Tian Yu-Yang , Zhu Xing-Quan , Zheng Xiao-Nan
Published: September 2024

Background

Toxoplasma gondii is an intracellular opportunistic pathogenic protozoan that poses serious threats, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. In the absence of a robust prophylactic measure, the mitigation and management of toxoplasmosis present formidable challenges to public health. We recently found that GRA72 plays an important role in parasitophorous vacuole (PV) morphology, growth and virulence of T. gondii. However, whether gra72-deficient strain can be used as a vaccine remains unknown.

Methods

We first examined the attenuated virulence of gra72 gene knockout strain (PruΔgra72) and the parasite load in organs of the infected mice. Subsequently, we evaluated the immune-protective effects of the PruΔgra72 vaccination against challenge with various types of T. gondii tachyzoites and Pru cysts. Furthermore, levels of antibodies and cytokines induced by PruΔgra72 vaccination were examined. Statistical analysis was conducted by Student’s t-test or Mantel-Cox log-rank test based on data obtained from three independent experiments with GraphPad Prism 8.0.

Results

We found that PruΔgra72 strain exhibited a significantly attenuated virulence even at the highest dose of 5 × 107 tachyzoites in Kunming mice model. The significant decrease of brain cyst burden and parasite load in the organs of the PruΔgra72-infected mice suggested its potentiality as a live-attenuated vaccine. Hence, we explored the protective immunity of PruΔgra72 vaccination against toxoplasmosis. Results showed that vaccination with 5 × 106 PruΔgra72 tachyzoites triggered a strong and sustained Th1-biased immune response, marked by significantly increased levels of anti-T. gondii IgG antibodies, and significantly higher levels of Th1 type cytokines (IL-2, IL-12 and IFN-γ) compared to that of Th2 type (IL-4 and IL-10). Vaccination with 5 × 106 PruΔgra72 tachyzoites in mice conferred long-term protection against T. gondii infection by less virulent tachyzoites (ToxoDB#9 PYS and Pru strains) and Pru cysts, provided partial protection against acute infection by high virulent Type I RH tachyzoites and significantly decreased brain cyst burden of chronically infected mice.

Conclusions

The avirulent PruΔgra72 induced strong protective immunity against acute and chronic T. gondii infection and is a promising candidate for developing a safe and effective live-attenuated vaccine against T. gondii infection.

Graphical Abstract
Sex-specific associations of Notch signaling with chronic HBV infection: a study from Taiwan Biobank
Authors: Jen I-An , Kuo Terry B. J. , Liaw Yung-Po
Published: September 2024

Background

Hepatitis B, a liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), can develop into a chronic infection that puts patients at high risk of death from cirrhosis and liver cancer. In this study, we aimed to investigate the difference of reactome pre-Notch expression and processing between males and females by using gene to function analysis in FUMA.

Methods

We analyzed Taiwan Biobank (TWB) data pertaining to 48,874 women and 23,178 men individuals which were collected from 2008 to 2019. According to hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) status in hematology, positive and negative were classified into case and control in the genome-wide association study (GWAS) analysis.

Results

We found 4715 women and 2656 men HBV cases. The genomic risk loci were different between males and females. In male, three risk loci (rs3732421, rs1884575 and Affx-28516147) were detected while eight risk loci (Affx-4564106, rs932745, rs7574865, rs34050244, rs77041685, rs107822, rs2296651 and rs12599402) were found in female. In addition, sex also presented different results. In females, the most significant SNPs are gathered in chromosome 6. However, except for chromosome 6, significant HBV infection SNPs also could be found in chromosome 3 among males. We further investigated gene function in FUMA to identify the difference in reactome pre-Notch expression and processing between males and females. We found that POGLUT1 and HIST1H2BC only appeared in men but not in women.

Conclusion

According to our study, the reactome pre-Notch expression including POGLUT1 and HIST1H2BC was associated with a risk of Hepatitis B in Taiwanese men when compared to women.
Quercetin ameliorates oxidative stress-induced apoptosis of granulosa cells in dairy cow follicular cysts by activating autophagy via the SIRT1/ROS/AMPK signaling pathway
Authors: Duan Hongwei , Wang Fang , Wang Ke , Yang Shuai , Zhang Rong , Xue Chen , Zhang Lihong , Ma Xiaofei , Du Xianghong , Kang Jian , Zhang Yong , Zhao Xingxu , Hu Junjie , Xiao Longfei
Published: September 2024

Background

Follicular cysts contribute significantly to reproductive loss in high-yield dairy cows. This results from the death of follicular granulosa cells (GCs) caused by oxidative stress. Quercetin is known to have significant antioxidant and anti-apoptotic effects. However, the effect of quercetin on follicular cysts has yet been elucidated. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the anti-oxidant and anti-apoptosis effects and potential molecular mechanisms of quercetin in H2O2-induced primary cow GCs and 3-nitropropionic acid (3-NPA)-induced mouse model of oxidative stress and thus treat ovarian cysts in dairy cows.

Results

In this study, compared with estrus cows, cows with follicular cysts showed heightened levels of oxidative stress and increased follicular cell apoptosis, while autophagy levels were reduced. A model of oxidative stress was induced in vitro by H2O2 and showed significant increases in apoptosis together with reduced autophagy. These effects were significantly ameliorated by quercetin. Effects similar to those of quercetin were observed after treatment of cells with the reactive oxygen species (ROS) inhibitor N-acetylcysteine (NAC). Further investigations using chloroquine (autophagy inhibitor), rapamycin (autophagy activator), selisistat (SIRT1 inhibitor), and compound C (AMPK inhibitor) showed that chloroquine counteracted the effects of quercetin on oxidative stress-induced apoptosis, while rapamycin had the same effect as quercetin. In addition, the SIRT1/AMPK pathway inhibitors antagonized quercetin-mediated mitigation of the effects of oxidative stress on increased apoptosis and reduced autophagy. Consistent with the results in vitro, in mouse ovarian oxidative stress model induced by 3-NPA, quercetin activated autophagy through the SIRT1/AMPK signaling pathway, while alleviating oxidative stress damage and inhibiting apoptosis in mouse ovaries.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that quercetin can inhibit apoptosis in GCs and restore ovarian function by activating autophagy through the SIRT1/ROS/AMPK signaling pathway, suggesting a new direction for the treatment of ovarian follicular cysts in high-yield dairy cows.
A case of resected anaplastic carcinoma of the pancreas producing granulocyte-colony stimulating factor with literature review
Authors: Kubo Norio , Suzuki Shigemasa , Seki Takahiro , Furuke Shunsaku , Yagi Naoki , Ooki Takashi , Aihara Ryusuke , Mogi Akira , Yoshida Yuka , Kashiwabara Kenji , Hosouchi Yasuo , Shirabe Ken
Published: September 2024

Background

Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF)-producing tumors have been reported in various organs, and the prognosis of patients with G-CSF-producing pancreatic cancers is particularly dismal. In this report, we present a case of G-CSF-producing anaplastic carcinoma of the pancreas (ACP), characterized by early postoperative recurrence and rapid, uncontrolled growth.

Case presentation

A 74-year-old man presented to our hospital with complaints of abdominal fullness and pain after eating. On admission, it was observed that the peripheral leukocyte counts and serum G-CSF levels were significantly elevated (23,770/µL and 251 pg/mL, respectively). Computed tomography of the abdomen revealed a pancreatic head tumor involving the superior mesenteric vein. Pathologically, ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration confirmed ACP. Subsequently, we performed a subtotal stomach-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy with portal vein reconstruction and partial transverse colon resection. On postoperative day (POD) 7, the leukocyte count decreased from 21,180/μL to 8490/μL; moreover, computed tomography revealed liver metastasis. Therefore, mFOLFILINOX chemotherapy was initiated on POD 30. However, the tumor exhibited rapid progression, and the patient died on POD 45.

Conclusions

G-CSF-producing ACP is rare, and the prognosis of patients is extremely poor. Basic research is required to develop effective drugs against G-CSF-producing tumors, and large-scale studies using national databases are needed to develop multidisciplinary treatment methods.
Corporate (social) responsibility in state-business relations from the perspective of critical state theory: a historical case of early modern China
Authors: Kang Xu
Published: September 2024

This article presents a theoretical framework for analysing corporate responsibility through the lens of critical state theory, focusing on the dynamic interplay between state and business. Traditionally, corporate responsibility is seen as voluntary corporate actions for public welfare. However, it is increasingly viewed as integral to business strategy and subject to regulatory oversight. Utilizing Jessop’s strategic-relational approach, this study underscores the state’s role in structuring corporate behaviour, revealing how shifts in political elite networks influence corporate responsibility practices. A historical analysis of early modern China highlights these dynamics within specific national contexts characterized by developmentalism and authoritarianism, demonstrating the profound impact of state-business symbiosis on corporate responsibility. This analysis contributes to a deeper understanding of corporate responsibility in diverse political and economic settings, demonstrating how state power, corporate influence, and social welfare are mutually reinforcing and shaped by broader socio-political dynamics.
A comprehensive study of risk factors predicting hydrocephalus following decompressive craniectomy in traumatic brain injuries
Authors: Yadav Vikrant , Sahu Anurag , Pandey Nityanand , Prasad Ravi Shankar , Mishra Manish , Pradhan Ravi Shekhar
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Decompressive craniectomy [DC] is one of the leading armaments to lower refractory intracranial pressure. Post-DC hydrocephalus [PDCH] occurs in 11.9–36% of patients undergoing DCs for TBIs. Various theories have been given regarding pathophysiological mechanism of PDCH but remain dubious. Risk factors predicting PDCH still under research. Exact timeline regarding developmental process of PDCH remains undefined.

Method

This retrospective study was conducted on 422 patients who underwent DCs in our tertiary care trauma center over the period of one year. 60 patients out of 422 who developed PDCH were analyzed with respect to demographic variables and preoperative and postoperative risk factors. A total of 20 randomly selected patients, who underwent DCs but did not develop hydrocephalus, were selected and compared with patients who developed PDCH. Outcome analysis was done by dichotomizing the groups into independent and dependent groups.

Results

Among 422 patients undergoing DC, 14.21%[n = 60] developed PDCH. Younger [34.2 y vs 43.3 y, p = 0.0004] male age group was predominant in our study. Age [p = 0.021, multivariate analysis] and midline shift [p = 0.008, multivariate analysis] were significant preoperative predicting risk factors for PDCH. Interhemispheric hygroma [p = 0.031], brain bulge [ p = 0.008], and blood in postoperative scan [p = 0.029] were significant postoperative risk factors. Lower GCS score at admission [p = 0.0003], postoperative day 10 and at the time of establishment of PDCH were significantly predicted surgery to hydrocephalus time. Midline shift [p = 0.007] and thickness of interhemispheric hygroma [p = 0.021] were associated with poor outcome in patients with PDCH.

Conclusion

Younger age group and presence of midline shift are significant preoperative predictors of PDCH. Blood in postoperative scan, interhemispheric hygroma and brain bulge in postoperative period are significant predictors for PDCH. Deterioration in GCS score in postoperative period following DC should be taken as high index of suspicion for developing PDCH.
Prognostic models in multiple sclerosis: progress and challenges in clinical integration
Authors: Havla Joachim , Reeve Kelly , On Begum Irmak , Mansmann Ulrich , Held Ulrike
Published: September 2024

As a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system, multiple sclerosis (MS) is of great individual health and socio-economic significance. To date, there is no prognostic model that is used in routine clinical care to predict the very heterogeneous course of the disease. Despite several research groups working on different prognostic models using traditional statistics, machine learning and/or artificial intelligence approaches, the use of published models in clinical decision making is limited because of poor model performance, lack of transferability and/or lack of validated models. To provide a systematic overview, we conducted a “Cochrane review” that assessed 75 published prediction models using relevant checklists (CHARMS, PROBAST, TRIPOD). We have summarized the relevant points from this analysis here so that the use of prognostic models for therapy decisions in clinical routine can be successful in the future.
Computer simulation and video media instructional packages in improving learning outcomes of Chemistry students in Ife Central Local Government Area
Authors: Fabeku Oluwatimilehin Emmanuel , Enyeasi Stanley Chizoba
Published: September 2024

The study examined computer simulation and video-media in improving students’ performance in Chemistry and compared students’ attitude towards Chemistry using the two packages. It also examined the effectiveness of the two packages in enhancing students’ retention of Chemistry concepts. This was with a view to finding out which of the two packages is better in enhancing students’ performance in Chemistry. The non-equivalent pretest—posttest control group research design was employed for the study. The population for the study comprised all Chemistry students in senior secondary schools in Osun State. Students in senior secondary class two (SSII) in their intact classes from three schools in Ife Central Local Government Area of the State formed the sample of the study. The three schools were randomly assigned to three groups; experimental group A using Computer Simulated Instructional Package (CSIP), experimental group B using Video Media Instructional Package (VMIP), and group C using the conventional teaching method. The instruments used for data collection were Chemistry Achievement Test (CAT) and Chemistry Attitudinal Questionnaire (CAQ). Data collected were analyzed using mean, ANOVA and ANCOVA statistics. The results revealed that there existed a significant difference in the effectiveness of computer simulation and video media instructional packages in improving students’ performance in Chemistry (F = 16.170, p < 0.05). This was further supported by the analysis of the post test scores of the respondents as those exposed to the computer simulation package had the highest post test score of 13.63 while conventional method had the lowest post test score of 9.46. The results also showed that there was no significant difference in the students’ attitude towards Chemistry using the two packages (F = 0.14, p > 0.05). Furthermore, the results showed that there existed a significant difference in the effectiveness of the two packages in enhancing students’ retention of Chemistry Concepts (F = 20.152, p < 0.05). Further analysis revealed a mean retention score of 14.79 for video media package, 15.54 for computer simulation package and 11.10 for the conventional method. This showed that those exposed to Computer simulation package had the highest average retention sore. The study concluded that computer simulation package is a more effective instructional package than video-media in improving students’ performance as well as retention of concepts taught. In terms of students’ attitude towards Chemistry, the two packages examined in the study suggest no effect and if such exists, is likely to be negligible.
Prevalence and CCR3-T51C genotype–phenotype correlation of bronchial asthma among basic education school children: an observational study
Authors: Zedan Magdy , Elwassefy Mona , Zareif Ismail El , ElTahan Hossam , Wahba Yahya
Published: September 2024

Background

Bronchial asthma (BA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder identified by different endotypes and phenotypes. Chemokine receptor 3 (CCR3) is one of the essential chemokine receptors that have a crucial role in asthma development by activating the migration of eosinophils through eotaxin production. We aimed to determine asthma prevalence among school children and to investigate the association between CCR3-T51C gene polymorphisms and the symptom-based clinical asthma phenotypes.

Methods

This study employed a hybrid design, conducted at a single center in Egypt from 2020 to 2021, to explore the relationship between asthma, its clinical phenotypes, and the CCR3-T51C gene polymorphism. Initially, a cross-sectional analysis was performed, utilizing a modified version of the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) questionnaire to determine the prevalence of asthma in a cohort of 60 children, who presented with diverse clinical phenotypes, alongside 100 healthy controls. Subsequently, in the case–control phase of the study, we focused on examining the association between asthma (and its clinical phenotypes) and the CCR3-T51C gene polymorphism. For both groups, serum immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels and eosinophil counts were assessed, and the genotypes and alleles of the CCR3-T51C gene polymorphism were identified using the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR–RFLP) technique.

Results

A total of 600 children aged (6 to 16 years old) were enrolled. Out of these, 72 children (12%) were diagnosed with bronchial asthma in the basic education schools in El Manzala City, Egypt. Also, 72 (12%) of the studied children had wheezes, and 48 (8%) had night cough. Children with asthma had significantly higher relative eosinophil count and serum IgE levels than the control group. In terms of CCR3-T51C genotypes analysis, the TT genotype was the most prevalent in both patient and control groups, with 63.3% and 64%, respectively, but the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Also, there were no significant associations between CCR3-T51C genotypes and laboratory biomarkers among cough, wheezy, and cough and wheezy groups, except for the CT genotype in the cough group that had a lower eosinophil count than the wheezy group (P = 0.04).

Conclusion

Asthma affects 12% of the school-aged children. The CCR3-T51C genotype or allelic polymorphism frequency did not differ between asthmatics and controls; however, the TT genotype was more frequent in asthmatic children. Eosinophil count, serum IgE and gene polymorphism of CCR3-T51C appeared similar among different asthmatic phenotypes.
Competitive advantage and sustainability in Ghanaian microfinance institutions: the mediating role of strategic capabilities
Authors: Marfo Mensah , Ashitey ARMAH Abiel , Ofei Eleazer Fianko , Coffie Isaac Sewornu , Adadevoh Linda , Pattnaik Sanjeet Kumar , Reindoph Carl Asante , Annan Edward
Published: September 2024

This study explores the effect of competitive advantage on sustainability within Ghanaian microfinance institutions (MFIs), emphasizing the mediating role of strategic capabilities. We conducted a quantitative analysis using survey data from 500 managers representing 150 MFIs in Ghana, analyzed through structural equation modeling. Our findings indicate that competitive advantages and strategic capabilities have a positive significant influence on MFI sustainability. Additionally, strategic capabilities were found to mediate the relationship between competitive advantage and sustainability within Ghanaian MFIs. This study expands the theoretical framework by incorporating cost differentiation, pricing strategy, focus strategy, market strategy, efficient operations and risk management, innovation in product offerings, target market considerations, and client relationship management. We highlight how MFIs can maintain competitiveness through technology, partnerships, training, career development, and knowledge transfer. This mediated relationship underscores the crucial role of strategic capabilities in achieving sustainable operations. The study provides a conceptual framework for understanding MFI sustainability and offers a roadmap to enhance competitive advantage. By integrating elements from the competitive advantage theory and extending the resource-based view theory, this research contributes to the existing knowledge by clarifying the connections between competitive advantage and sustainability in the context of MFIs. Furthermore, the study addresses the dynamics of competitive advantage, strategic capabilities, and sustainability in a context with limited research. It offers practical implications for policymakers and practitioners, providing insights that can inform targeted interventions to enhance capacities and foster sustainability in the microfinance sector.
Giant enhancement of nonlinear harmonics of an optical-tweezer phonon laser
Authors: Xiao Guangzong , Kuang Tengfang , He Yutong , Chen Xinlin , Xiong Wei , Han Xiang , Tan Zhongqi , Luo Hui , Jing Hui
Published: September 2024

Phonon lasers, as mechanical analogues of optical lasers, are unique tools for not only fundamental studies of the emerging field of phononics but also diverse applications such as deep-ocean monitoring, force sensing, and biomedical ultrasonics. Recently, nonlinear phonon-lasing effects were observed in an opto-levitated micro-sphere, i.e., the spontaneous emerging of weak signals of high-order phonon harmonics in the phonon lasing regime. However, both the strengths and the quality factors of the emerging phonon harmonics are very poor, thus severely hindering their potential applications in making and utilizing nonlinear phonon-laser devices. Here we show that, by applying a single-colour electronic injection to this levitated system, giant enhancement can be achieved for all higher-order phonon harmonics, with more than 3 orders enhanced brightness and 5 orders narrowed linewidth. Such an electronically-enhanced phonon laser is also far more stable, with frequency stability extended from a dozen of minutes to over 1 h. More importantly, higher-order phonon correlations, as an essential lasing feature, are confirmed to be enhanced by the electronic injection as well, which as far as we know, has not been reported in previous works using this technique. This work, providing much stronger and better-quality signals of coherent phonon harmonics, is a key step towards controlling and utilizing nonlinear phonon lasers for applications such as phonon frequency combs, broadband phonon sensors, and ultrasonic bio-medical diagnosis.
Molecular and biochemical components associated with chilling tolerance in tomato: comparison of different developmental stages
Authors: Camalle Maria Dolores , Levin Elena , David Sivan , Faigenboim Adi , Foolad Majid R. , Lers Amnon
Published: September 2024

The cultivated tomato, Solanum lycopersicum, is highly sensitive to cold stress (CS), resulting in significant losses during cultivation and postharvest fruit storage. Previously, we demonstrated the presence of substantial genetic variation in fruit chilling tolerance in a tomato recombinant inbred line (RIL) population derived from a cross between a chilling-sensitive tomato line and a chilling-tolerant accession of the wild species S. pimpinellifolium. Here, we investigated molecular and biochemical components associated with chilling tolerance in fruit and leaves, using contrasting groups of “chilling tolerant” and “chilling sensitive” RI lines. Transcriptomic analyses were conducted on fruit exposed to CS, and gene expressions and biochemical components were measured in fruit and leaves. The analyses revealed core responding genes specific to either the cold-tolerant or cold-sensitive RI lines, which were differentially regulated in similar fashion in both leaves and fruit within each group. These genes may be used as markers to determine tomato germplasm cold tolerance or sensitivity. This study demonstrated that tomato response to CS in different developmental stages, including seedling and postharvest fruit, might be mediated by common biological/genetic factors. Therefore, genetic selection for cold tolerance during early stages of plant development may lead to lines with greater postharvest fruit chilling tolerance.
Clinical Features and HLA Genetics Differ in Children at Type 1 Diabetes Onset by Hispanic Ethnicity
Authors: Karakus Kagan E , Fleury Theodore , Baschal Erin E , McDaniel Kristen A , Choi Hyelin , Armstrong Taylor K , Yu Liping , Simmons Kimber M , Michels Aaron W
Published: September 2024

Context

Type 1 diabetes incidence continues to increase in children, especially among Hispanic White (HW) children.

Objective

We investigated the clinical, immunologic, and genetic characteristics of HW and non-Hispanic White (NHW) children who presented at type 1 diabetes diagnosis.

Methods

In this single-center, observational study, children who were diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (≤20 years old) and tested for islet autoantibodies within 1 year of diagnosis were included in the study and divided into 2 groups by Hispanic ethnicity.

Results

Of 1297 children, 398 HW children presented with a younger age at diabetes onset (10.2 ± 3.9 vs 11.1 ± 4.1 years, P < .001) and more diabetic ketoacidosis (62.4% vs 51.9%, P < .001) than NHW children (n = 899). There was no difference in sex, A1c levels, or the number and prevalence of islet autoantibodies between the 2 cohorts. A subset of our cohort was human leukocyte antigen (HLA) typed as specific alleles confer strong genetic risk for type 1 diabetes (eg, HLA-DR4 and DQ8). Among 637 HLA-typed children, HW children had a significantly higher prevalence of the DR4-DQ8 haplotype than NHW children (79.1% vs 60.1%, P < .001), and this frequency was much higher than a reference Hispanic population (OR 6.5, 95% CI 4.6-9.3).

Conclusion

Hispanic White children developing type 1 diabetes have a high prevalence of HLA DR4-DQ8, which can be utilized to select individuals for immune monitoring with islet autoantibodies to lessen diabetic ketoacidosis and potentially prevent diabetes onset.
When the Expected Becomes Unexpected: An Acute Presentation of Hypothyroidism
Authors: Martinez Sanchez Andrea , Vega Castellvi Claudia , Tarkoff Joshua , De La Vega Christie
Published: September 2024

Myxedema coma is an uncommon and life-threatening manifestation of severe hypothyroidism. Its occurrence in the pediatric population is exceptionally rare and can result from long-standing untreated hypothyroidism or nonadherence to treatment. Identifying this condition can be challenging because it requires a high level of clinical suspicion along with thyroid function testing. We present a 17-year-old female with a history of anxiety who had widespread nonspecific symptoms, including persistent bradycardia, which were found to be caused by hypothyroidism. Our goal is to raise awareness of the varied clinical manifestations of pediatric myxedema to promote early recognition and prompt medical interventions that can lead to better outcomes.
Usefulness of the Upright Posture Test in the Diagnosis of Primary Aldosteronism
Authors: Younes Nada , St-Jean Matthieu , Desrochers Marie-Josée , Therasse Eric , Latour Mathieu , Bourdeau Isabelle , Lacroix André
Published: September 2024

Objective

To assess the usefulness of the upright posture stimulation test (UPT) in the confirmation of primary aldosteronism (PA) in patients in whom saline tests (ST) were inconclusive.

Methods

One hundred eighty-seven adult patients with possible PA were retrospectively included and compared to 25 control subjects. Blood samples were obtained after a 1-hour supine posture and during 2 hours of ambulation. An increase in plasma aldosterone concentration (PAC) ≥ 50% with a suppressed renin (≤10.1 ng/L; ≤1 ng/mL/hour) and a cortisol increase ≤50% were considered abnormal.

Results

PA patients had higher basal PAC and lower basal direct renin concentration (DRC) (P < .0001) and a higher maximal PAC (P = .0025) and lower maximal DRC (DRCmax) (P < .0001) during UPT compared to controls. PA was confirmed in 145 patients (77.5%), based on either oral/IV ST or UPT. DRCmax ≤12 ng/L during UPT was a predictor of PA (receiver operating characteristic curve sensitivity 93.8%, specificity 88%), and 95.6% of PA patients increased PAC ≥50% on UPT (median 222.2%), while renin remained suppressed. All 41 PA patients with false-negative IV ST (PAC < 162 pmol/L) and 88.9% with borderline response (162-240 pmol/L) had a DRCmax ≤12, while, respectively, 97.6% and 100% increased aldosterone by ≥50%. Similar responses to UPT were found in lateralized (28/63) and bilateral PA source (35/63). PA diagnosis increased from 23.6% to 88.8% using UPT results instead of IV ST and were confirmed at pathology and clinical outcome after adrenalectomy (n = 22).

Conclusion

UPT can be useful to confirm PA, particularly in patients with suspected false-negative ST.
Association of Patient and Geographic Variables in Pediatric Patients With Prediabetes Becoming Lost to Follow-up
Authors: Hamaker Maya , Schmitt Jessica
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Prediabetes (PD) is becoming more common, and management is complicated by high rates of loss to follow-up. We evaluated variables associated with lost to follow-up status for pediatric patients with PD referred to endocrinology for evaluation and management.

Methods

We evaluated new patients referred to Children's of Alabama Endocrinology for PD from March 2017 through March 2021. Variables included patient medical and demographics as well as county-level metrics. Comparisons of patients who returned to clinic and those who were lost to follow-up were assessed by chi-square for categorical variables and Student’s t-test/Wilcoxon rank sum test for continuous normal/skewed variables, respectively. Univariate logistic regression modeling identified risk factors for coming lost to follow-up and odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were reported with a 2-sided P-value for significance of <.05.

Results

A total of 524 patients were included in the analysis. Almost one-fourth of patients were lost to follow-up (24.6%). The odds of returning to clinic were higher in patients with the Children's Health Insurance Plan, who were prescribed endocrine medications, who had a concurrent diagnosis of cholesterol disorder, who had referral to the endocrine clinic before COVID-19, and who were offered a telehealth visit. No other assessed variable was significantly associated with the likelihood of returning to clinic.

Conclusion

Independent of obesity severity, age, sex, race, county-level health, and economic variables, the factor most strongly associated with returning to clinic was having a telemedicine visit scheduled. Our data suggest that offering telemedicine visits may reduce lost to follow-up rates in this patient population.
Beyond power limits: the kinetic energy capacity of skeletal muscle
Authors: Labonte David , Holt Natalie C.
Published: September 2024

Muscle is the universal agent of animal movement, and limits to muscle performance are therefore an integral aspect of animal behaviour, ecology and evolution. A mechanical perspective on movement makes it amenable to analysis from first principles, and so brings the seeming certitude of simple physical laws to the challenging comparative study of complex biological systems. Early contributions on movement biomechanics considered muscle energy output to be limited by muscle work capacity, Wmax; triggered by seminal work in the late 1960s, it is now held broadly that a complete analysis of muscle energy output must also consider muscle power capacity, for no unit of work can be delivered in arbitrarily brief time. Here, we adopt a critical stance towards this paradigmatic notion of a power limit, and argue that the alternative constraint to muscle energy output is imposed instead by a characteristic kinetic energy capacity, Kmax, dictated by the maximum speed with which the actuating muscle can shorten. The two critical energies can now be directly compared, and define the physiological similarity index, Γ=Kmax/Wmax. It is the explanatory power of this comparison that lends weight to a shift in perspective from muscle power to kinetic energy capacity, as is argued through a series of illustrative examples. Γ emerges as an important dimensionless number in musculoskeletal dynamics, and sparks novel hypotheses on functional adaptations in musculoskeletal ‘design’ that depart from the parsimonious evolutionary null hypothesis of geometric similarity.
Mitochondrial Influence on Performance Fatigability: Considering Sex Variability
Authors: GIURIATO GAIA , BARBI CHIARA , LAGINESTRA FABIO GIUSEPPE , ANDANI MEHRAN EMADI , FAVARETTO THOMAS , MARTIGNON CAMILLA , PEDRINOLLA ANNA , VERNILLO GIANLUCA , MORO TATIANA , FRANCHI MARTINO , ROMANELLI MARIA GRAZIA , SCHENA FEDERICO , VENTURELLI MASSIMO
Published: September 2024

Objective

Existing literature indicates that females generally demonstrate higher fatigue resistance than males during isometric contractions. However, when it comes to single-limb dynamic exercises, the intricate interplay between performance fatigability (PF), cardiovascular responses, and muscle metabolism in relation to sex differences remains underexplored.

Purpose

This study investigates how sex affects the relationship between muscle oxidative characteristics and the development of PF during dynamic single-leg exercise.

Methods

Twenty-four young healthy participants (12 males vs 12 females) performed a constant-load single-leg knee extension task (85% peak power output; 60 rpm) to exhaustion (TTE). Neuromuscular assessments via transcranial magnetic and peripheral stimulations were conducted before and after exercise to evaluate central and peripheral factors of PF. Vastus lateralis muscle biopsies were obtained for mitochondrial respiration and immunohistochemistry analyses.

Results

Participants performed similar total work (28 ± 7 vs 27 ± 14 kJ, P = 0.81) and TTE (371 ± 139 vs 377 ± 158 s, P = 0.98); after the TTE, females’ maximal isometric voluntary contraction (MVIC: −36% ± 13% vs −24% ± 9%, P = 0.006) and resting twitch (RT; −65% ± 9% vs −40% ± 24%, P = 0.004) force declined less. No differences were observed in supraspinal neuromuscular factors (P > 0.05). During exercise, the cardiovascular responses differed between sexes. Although fiber type composition was similar (type I: 47% ± 13% vs 56% ± 14%, P = 0.11), males had lower mitochondrial net oxidative capacity (61 ± 30 vs 89 ± 37, P = 0.049) and higher Complex II contribution to maximal respiration (CII; 59% ± 8% vs 48% ± 6%, P < 0.001), which correlated with the decline in MVIC (r = −0.74, P < 0.001) and RT (r = −0.60, P = 0.002).

Conclusions

Females display greater resistance to PF during dynamic contractions, likely due to their superior mitochondrial efficiency and lower dependence on mitochondrial CII activity.
Παράσταση ηγεμόνα στα ανατολικά σύνορα της Βυζαντινής αυτοκρατορίας: η παράσταση του Άσοτ Κούχι του Τµπέτι στη Γεωργία
Authors: Machabeli Kitti
Published: September 2024

Η μελέτη εξετάζει ένα από τα πιο σημαντικά δείγματα των ανάγλυφων παραστάσεων προσώπων που κοσμούσαν τις προσόψεις των μεσαιωνικών ναών της Γεωργίας. Αφορά στην ανάγλυφη παράσταση που υπήρχε άλλοτε στη νότια όψη του καθεδρικού ναού του Τμπέτι, στην περιοχή του Ταο Κλαρτζέτι, στη νοτιοδυτική μεσαιωνική Γεωργία. Το ανάγλυφο αποδίδει έναν δωρητή, μέλος της βασιλικής οικογενείας των Mπαγκρατιόνι, τον Άσοτ Κούχι (891-918), ο οποίος έφερε τον τίτλο «ἄρχων τῶν ἀρχόντων». Η μελέτη εστιάζει στις κοινωνικοπολιτιστικές παραμέτρους της εποχής, που υποδηλώνονται σε αυτήν την παράσταση
The transformations of Athens from the time of the Herulian invasion (267 CE) to the end of the 4th century
Authors: CHIOTI (Λαμπρινή ΧΙΩΤΗ) Lamprini
Published: September 2024

After the Herulian invasion (267 CE) Athens was transformed just like other Greek cities were at that time. The analysis of the Athenian building activity shows that from the late 3rd to the 4th century an inner, reduced wall was constructed, ancient public buildings were abandoned or dismantled, workshops were installed in ancient public places, while the city’s core was transferred from the west to the east, to the area of the nowadays Greek Parliament and the National Garden.
Χαράλαμπος Πέννας, Η Βυζαντινή εκκλησια της Κρήνας της Χίου. Ιστορία, Αρχιτεκτονική , Γλυπτική, Ζωγραφική (τέλη 12ου αιώνα)
Authors: ΓΚΙΟΛΕΣ (Nikolaos Gioles) Νικόλαος
Published: September 2024

Charalampos Pennas, The Byzantine Church of Panagia Krena in Chios. History, Architecture, Sculpture, Painting (late 12th century), Alexandros Press, Leiden 2017, 242 σελ., 305 εικ., 24×17 εκ., ISBN: 978-94-90387-08-2.
Ἐν Σοφίᾳ μαθητεύσαντες: Essays in Byzantine Material Culture and Society in Honour of Sophia Kalopissi-Verti
Authors: ΚΑΤΣΙΩΤΗ (Angeliki KATSIOTI) Αγγελική
Published: September 2024

Ἐν Σοφίᾳ μαθητεύσαντες: Essays in Byzantine Material Culture and Society in Honour of Sophia Kalopissi-Verti, Χαρίκλεια Διαμαντή – Αναστασία Βασιλείου (επιμ.), με τη συμβολή της Σμαράγδης Αρβανίτη,Archaeopress Archaeology, Οξφόρδη 2019, xvi + 432 σ., α/μ και έγχρ. εικ. εντός κειμένου, 20,5×29 εκ.ISBN: 978-1-78969-262-4. Ε-ISBN: 978-1-78969-263-1 [https://www.archaeopress.com/ArchaeopressShop/DMS/1EE510D8F8B14FA09E25290F4BA25CA8/9781789692624-sample.pdf].
Some remarks on the second mosaic pavement of the Metropolitan basilica in Philippopolis, Thrace
Authors: TOPALILOV Ivo
Published: September 2024

The present paper deals with the origin of the mosaic ateliers that were involved in the construction of the second mosaic pavement of the Metropolitan Basilica of Philippopolis, Thrace, dated in the 450s-460s. The analysis of the iconographic programme and of the style allows the identification of four mosaic ateliers: one, probably, metropolitan atelier, two provincial ones, that were strongly, influenced by Constantinopolitan artistic circles, and a local atelier.
Katerina Ragkou, Eastern Mediterranean Economic Networks in the Age of the Crusades: The Case of the Peloponnese
Authors: ΤΣΟΥΓΚΑΡΑΚΗΣ (Nikiforos-Ioannis TSOUGARAKIS) Νικηφόρος-Ιωάννης
Published: September 2024

Katerina Ragkou, Eastern Mediterranean Economic Networks in the Age of the Crusades: The Case of the Peloponnese (Studies in Mediterranean Archaeology and Literature PB 189), Ảström Editions, Nicosia 2020, XIV+198 σ. Περιλαμβάνεται βιβλιογραφία στις σ. 159-198. ISBN: 9789925745579.
Ο περί Θεού Λόγος στα πρωτοχριστιανικά κείμενα των παύλειων επιστολών
Authors: Μπακλαγής Δημήτριος
Published: September 2024

Η παρούσα εργασία εξετάζει την περί Θεού αντίληψη: Πρώτο, όπως αυτή αποτυπώνεται στα χωρία: Α΄ Κορ 8,6· Φιλ 2,6-11· Ρωμ 1,3β-4α· Κολ 1,15-20 και Α΄ Τιμ 2,5-6. Αυτά είναι κείμενα των παύλειων επιστολών που περιέχουν προ-παύλειο υλικό και γι’ αυτό ονομάζονται πρωτοχριστιανικά κείμενα. Η εξέταση των παραπάνω κείμενων πραγματοποιείται με τη βοήθεια της διαχρονικής μεθόδου προσέγγισης των κειμένων (ιστορικοκριτική ανάλυση). Δεύτερο, η παρούσα εργασία εξετάζει την περί Θεού αντίληψη που αποτυπώνεται στα εν λόγω πρωτοχριστιανικά κείμενα, όπως αυτή προσλαμβάνεται από τους ελληνόφωνους Πατέρες της Εκκλησίας και τους άλλους εκκλησιαστικούς συγγραφείς, οι οποίοι περιέχονται στην Ελληνική Πατρολογία, την οποία εξέδωσε ο J.P. Migne (: Συγγραφείς της Ελληνόφωνης Χριστιανικής Γραμματείας). Η εξέταση αυτή πραγματοποιείται με τη βοήθεια της συγχρονικής μεθόδου προσέγγισης των κειμένων (θεωρία της πρόσληψης του H.-G. Gadamer και ιστορία της πρόσληψης). Τρίτο, η παρούσα εργασία επεκτείνεται και στην εξέταση άλλων θεμάτων που σχετίζονται με την περί Θεού αντίληψη, όπως είναι η χριστολογία, η σωτηριολογία και η εκκλησιολογία. Τα αποτελέσματα της έρευνας παρατίθενται αναλυτικά και με διαγράμματα. Κατά την εξέταση αυτή αναδεικνύεται: Πρώτο, ότι οι πρώτοι χριστιανοί με τα πρωτοχριστιανικά αυτά κείμενα επιδιώκουν να αναδείξουν τη δράση του Θεού και του Ιησού Χριστού (και της σχέσης μεταξύ τους) μέσα στην ιστορία, καθώς και τις επιπτώσεις όλων αυτών στα μέλη των πρωτοχριστιανικών κοινοτήτων. Στο πλαίσιο αυτό τονίζεται η αποστολή του Ιησού Χριστού από τον Θεό στον κόσμο, η σταύρωση του Ιησού, η ανάστασή του από τον Θεό, καθώς και οι σωτηριολογικές και εκκλησιολογικές επιπτώσεις όλων αυτών. Το ίδιο ισχύει και για τις παύλειες επιστολές, που ενσωματώνουν και προσαρμόζουν τα πρωτοχριστιανικά αυτά κείμενα. Δεύτερο, αναδεικνύεται ότι οι Συγγραφείς της Ελληνόφωνης Χριστιανικής Γραμματείας προσλαμβάνουν τα εν λόγω πρωτοχριστιανικά κείμενα, όπως αυτά παρατίθενται στις παύλειες επιστολές, και τα προσεγγίζουν με τη βοήθεια της φιλοσοφίας. Οι Συγγραφείς αυτοί, κυρίως επιδιώκουν να αναδείξουν τα οντολογικά στοιχεία που αφορούν τον Θεό και τον Ιησού Χριστό, καθώς και τη σχέση μεταξύ τους (π.χ. φύση, πρόσωπο, ιδιώματα). Παράλληλα οι Συγγραφείς της Ελληνόφωνης Χριστιανικής Γραμματείας αναπτύσσουν τις θέσεις τους για τον Τριαδικό Θεό, για τον Ιησού Χριστό ως Υιό του Θεού και ως Θεό Λόγο καθώς και για την Ανάσταση του Υιού του Θεού, για να αντιμετωπίσουν τις εκάστοτε αιρέσεις και για να διδάξουν και να ποιμάνουν τους πιστούς της Εκκλησίας. Τρίτο και πολύ σημαντικό. Από την εξέταση των παραπάνω πρωτοχριστιανικών κειμένων αναδεικνύεται μια τεράστια ποικιλομορφία στην κατανόηση και στην πρόσληψή τους στο πέρασμα του χρόνου. Επίσης αναδεικνύεται ότι τα πρωτοχριστιανικά αυτά κείμενα έχουν μια εξαιρετική δυναμική, η οποία καθιστά τον αναγνώστη κάθε εποχής ικανό να τα διαβάσει σύμφωνα με τα δικά του δεδομένα και ζητούμενα και αυτό έχει μεγάλη σημασία και για την σημερινή εποχή.