bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Jovens universitários em cursos de licenciatura: representações e influências das dimensões política e religiosa
Authors: Lima Crislaine Pereira de , Pátaro Cristina Satiê de Oliveira , Mezzomo Frank Antonio
Published: April 2023

A pesquisa investiga o perfil e a trajetória de jovens licenciandos no que se refere às representações acerca das dimensões política e religiosa, bem como das influências que tais elementos podem exercer na constituição identitária destes jovens universitários. Os dados foram coletados por meio de entrevistas realizadas com 26 jovens estudantes de licenciatura da Universidade Estadual do Paraná – Unespar, com ênfase nos cursos da área de Ciências Humanas. Busca-se compreender a constituição das identidades juvenis em articulação com a política e a religião, bem como o perfil, representações e trajetórias de jovens universitários, em vista do contexto de democratização do acesso ao Ensino Superior no Brasil, em paralelo às problemáticas que vêm envolvendo as universidades públicas, em especial no Paraná. Os dados apontam a relevância das dimensões da política, da religião e da formação universitária na constituição identitária dos jovens, bem como as articulações e influências mútuas presentes nas relações entre esses aspectos. A multiplicidade de compreensões e trajetórias expressas pelos jovens universitários evidencia a importância de se considerar a constituição das identidades juvenis não como um processo linear e predefinido, mas como uma dinâmica complexa e imprevisível, que se constrói a partir de diferentes dimensões e das vivências e relações estabelecidas pelos sujeitos.
Projetos de vida e felicidade de jovens brasileiros
Authors: Gonçalo Mariana Fancio , Arantes Valéria Amorim
Published: April 2023

Ao longo de nossa existência, a questão de como conduziremos a vida se coloca a todo instante, em alguns mais fortemente, em outros de maneira mais discreta, negligenciada ou até mesmo ignorada. De todo modo, os rumos que daremos à vida são definidos insistentemente a todo o momento. De maneira mais específica, nossos projetos de vida é que norteiam e dão sentido às ações e decisões diárias. O presente estudo teve como objetivo identificar e compreender os projetos de vida de jovens brasileiros estudantes do ensino médio, bem como suas concepções sobre felicidade. A partir dos dados coletados com 120 estudantes de escolas públicas das cinco regiões brasileiras, procurou-se identificar as possíveis relações entre projetos de vida e significados de felicidade. Os dados foram analisados de acordo com os pressupostos da Teoria dos Modelos Organizadores do Pensamento, exigindo um trabalho minucioso e sem categorias prévias de análise. Os resultados indicaram que a maior parte dos participantes apresentou estruturas frágeis em relação a seus projetos de vida. No que se refere à felicidade, foi significada pela maioria em termos de relações interpessoais, ligada à convivência. Os resultados encontrados podem contribuir de forma significativa para que pais e educadores orientem os jovens na construção de projetos de vida nobres e autênticos, bem como promovam a felicidade e o bem-estar.
Práticas da oralidade na sala de aula: uma intervenção pedagógica com o gênero discursivo seminário escolar
Authors: Silva Cinara Sousa da , Santos Adelino Pereira dos
Published: April 2023

A partir de pressupostos teóricos oriundos dos Estudos Linguísticos e da teoria dos gêneros do discurso em perspectiva bakhtiniana, neste trabalho apresentamos uma análise comparativa do desempenho de alunos do 9° ano do Ensino Fundamental de uma escola pública do interior da Bahia, na execução do gênero discursivo seminário escolar. A partir de um diagnóstico inicial das habilidades prévias dos alunos, elaboramos uma sequência didática que se constituiu em uma proposta de intervenção pedagógica, em que foi possível comparar a produção inicial com a produção final dos discentes quanto aos aspectos extralinguísticos, linguísticos, paralinguísticos e cinésicos do seminário escolar. O trabalho de pesquisa teve por objetivo catalogar e discutir sobre os conteúdos do seminário, a fim de possibilitar aos discentes melhora de desempenho na execução do gênero. Uma primeira versão deste trabalho foi apresentada na dissertação de Mestrado Profissional em Letras de um dos autores deste artigo, defendida no primeiro trimestre de 2019. Neste artigo, focamos somente o desempenho de um dos grupos em que a turma foi dividida, denominado de Equipe 3. As análises demonstram que houve progressos significativos, em especial quanto aos aspectos extralinguísticos, revelados igualmente pela mudança de atitudes e de posturas corporais na produção final do seminário. Assim, nossa conclusão é de que os gêneros discursivos orais, sobretudo os da instância pública, podem e devem ser ensinados e são passíveis de aprendizagens, desde que se ofereçam projetos pedagógicos condizentes com a natureza dos gêneros.
On Current Change Trends in the Problematic Field of the Philosophy and Technology
Authors: Bondarenko Tamara
Published: April 2023

Introduction. The article is devoted to the analysis of changes in the problematic area of the philosophy of technology. This analysis is necessary if we are to comprehend the current state of the philosophy of technology and envision its future development. Methods. The philo­sophical and methodological analysis employed here allowed for the discovery of the trend in the development of conventional approaches to technology understanding based on the expansion and evolution of the organoprojection principle, which explains the development and operation of artificial neural networks. The conclusion about the role and ubiquitous penetration of technology in modern society was based on the system-structural method; it objectively prompted philosophers to revise the fundamental ideas in the field of technology and technosphere. Artificial intellectual objects with a certain level of autonomy — i. e., those that take on the characteristics of a subject — are included in the definition of "technology". Results and Discussion. One of the most important contemporary trends in the growth of the philosophy of technology is the inclusion of issues related to the in­tegration of technical and scientific knowledge and the emergence of a single complex in philosophical discourse, as well as the analysis of technoscience and its manifestations in areas like biotechnology and digital technologies. Issues pertaining to social technologies in the me­ dium term, such as the socio-humanitarian expertise of technical pro­jects, are touched upon, among others. The issue of a scientist, engi­neer, or technician's social responsibility is one of the traditional but newly interpreted problems. The foundation of the philosophical anal­ysis of growing responsibility is the discovery of the connection be­tween freedom and the coming demand for technological activity. An apparent trend is a greater emphasis on humans, on protecting them as a species, and on altering their status in the technical world, for in­stance, within the human-computer system. It's still up for debate whether it is possible to create a hybrid human form integrated with electronic components. Conclusion. The range of issues in contempo­rary philosophy of technology has significantly expanded, according to the trends examined.
The Results of the Expert Discussion "Regional Institutes for the Development of Science as a Driver for the Growth of the Region's Human Resources Potential" (Krasnoyarsk Economic Forum 2023)
Authors: Panteleeva Irina , Pisarev Ivan , Byvshev Vladimir
Published: April 2023

The publication highlights the results of the expert discussion "Regional Institutes for the development of science as a driver for the growth of the region's human resources potential", which took place within the framework of the Krasnoyarsk Economic Forum on March 1, 2023. The participants of the discussion were asked questions about the role of regional institutes for the development of science in solving the tasks of the scientific and technological agenda, about the socio-eco­nomic effects of the activities of regional development institutions, and about the tools for involving young people in the field of science and the formation of the personnel potential of the region. The expert discussion was attended by representatives of federal and regional development institutions, representatives of the executive power and the scientific and educational complex of the Krasnoyarsk Territory. The represent­ativeness of the participants from many spheres and regions allowed them to get acquainted with different views on the activities of regional institutes for the development of science through the prism of society, business and the state.
Siri, you've changed! Acoustic properties and racialized judgments of voice assistants
Authors: Holliday Nicole
Published: April 2023

As speech technology is increasingly integrated into modern American society, voice assistants are a more significant part of our everyday lives. According to Apple, Siri fulfills 25 billion requests each month. As part of a software update in April 2021, users in the U.S. were presented with a choice of 4 Siris. While in beta testing, users on Twitter began to comment that they felt that some of the voices had racial identities, noting in particular that Voice 2 and Voice 3 “sounded black.” This study tests whether listeners indeed hear the different Siri voices as sounding like speakers from different groups, as well as examines voice quality features that may trigger these judgments. In order to test evaluations of the four voices, 485 American English listeners heard each Siri voice reading the Rainbow Passage, via online survey conducted on Qualtrics. Following each clip, listeners responded to questions about the speaker's demographic characteristics and personal traits. An LMER model of normalized ratings assessed the interaction of voice and race judgment revealed that indeed, Voice 2 and Voice 3 were significantly more likely to be rated as belonging to a Black speaker than Voices 1 and 4 (p < 0.001). Per-trait logistic regression models and chi-square tests examining ratings revealed Voice 3, the male voice rated as Black, was judged less competent (X2 = 108.99, x < 0.001), less professional (X2 = 90.97, p < 0.001), and funniest (X2 = 123.39, x < 0.001). Following analysis of listener judgments of voices, I conducted post-hoc analysis comparing voice quality (VQ) features to examine which may trigger the listener judgments of race. Using PraatSauce, I employed scripts to extract VQ measures previously hypothesized to pattern differently in African American English vs. Mainstream American English. VQ measures that significantly affected listener ratings of the voices are mean F0 and H1–A3c, which correlate with perceptions of pitch and breathiness. These results reveal listeners attribute human-like demographic and personal characteristics to synthesized voices. A more comprehensive understanding of social judgments of digitized voices may help us to understand how listeners evaluate human voices, with implications for speech perception and discrimination as well as recognition and synthesis.
Abnormal left atrial compliance is associated with a history of life-threatening arrhythmia in corrected Tetralogy of Fallot
Authors: Vautier Mathilde , Mulet Benoit , Macquaire Clémence , Cousergue Cynthia , André Camille-Océane , Maragnes Pascale , Ollitrault Pierre , Labombarda Fabien
Published: April 2023

Objectives

The objectives of this study were to examine left atrial (LA) function and compliance using two-dimensional (2D) strain analysis in adult patients with corrected Tetralogy of Fallot (c-ToF) and to investigate the relationships between LA function and patient characteristics, especially history of life-threatening arrhythmia (h-LTA).

Methods

Fifty-one c-ToF patients (34 males; age, 39 ± 15 years; h-LTA, n = 13) were included in this retrospective monocenter study. In addition to a 2D standard echocardiography examination, 2D strain analysis was performed to assess left ventricular (LV) and LA functions, including peak-positive LA strain (LAS—reservoir function) and LA compliance [defined as the ratio LAS/(E/Ea)].

Results

Patients with h-LTA were older and exhibited a longer QRS duration. LV ejection fraction, LAS and LA compliance were significantly lower in the group of patients with h-LTA. Indexed LA and RA volumes, RV end-diastolic area was significantly higher and RV fractional area change significantly lower in the h-LTA group. LA compliance was the best echocardiographic predictor for h-LTA (AUC: 0.839; p < 0.001). Moderate inverted correlations were found between LA compliance and age and QRS duration. Among the echocardiographic parameters, LA compliance was moderately inversely correlated with RV end-diastolic area (r = −0.40, p = 0.01).

Conclusion

We documented abnormal LAS and LA compliance values in adult c-ToF patients. Further study is needed to determine how best to incorporate LA strain, particularly LA compliance, into multiparametric predictive models for LTA in c-ToF patients.
High-resolution imaging of a coal seam based on quasi-2D TEM inversion
Authors: Su Chao , Ma Guoqing , Liu Cai , Liu Yunhe , Zhang Bo
Published: April 2023

In a sedimentary environment, the conventional one-dimensional (1D) inversion based on the horizontal layered model has difficulty restoring the resistivity distribution of the inclined strata when a coal seam has some dip angle or a small interval between layers. In such cases, the inversion resistivity exhibits horizontal discontinuities, which cannot accurately represent actual geological conditions. Therefore, in view of the good horizontal continuity of the underground electrical structure of sedimentary strata, we propose a high-resolution inversion method based on weighted horizontal and vertical constraints. As a quasi-two-dimensional (2D) inversion, this not only ensures the horizontal continuity of resistivity and recovers the inclined strata, but also improves the vertical resolution. Because the constrained factor has a significant influence on the inversion result, different constrained factors are applied in the horizontal and vertical directions to adjust the constraint strength on the model parameters of each layer and the continuity of the layer interface. In the numerical experiments, we design synthetic models with different tilt angles and layer spacings to test the inversion method and optimize the constrained factors used for coal seam detection. Finally, the transient electromagnetic (TEM) field data processing results in Inner Mongolia show that the resistivity distributions of sedimentary strata can be accurately restored by the new method, and the inversion results are consistent with known geological information.
Peritumoral adipose tissue promotes lipolysis and white adipocytes browning by paracrine action
Authors: Pagnotta Priscila , Gantov Mariana , Fletcher Sabrina , Lombardi Antonella , Crosbie María Lujan , Santiso Natalia , Ursino Anabela , Frascarolli Celeste , Amato Alicia , Dreszman Rubén , Calvo Juan Carlos , Toneatto Judith
Published: April 2023

Background

Stromal adipocytes and tumor breast epithelial cells undergo a mutual metabolic adaptation within tumor microenvironment. Therefore, browning and lipolysis occur in cancer associated adipocytes (CAA). However, the paracrine effects of CAA on lipid metabolism and microenvironment remodeling remain poorly understood.

Methods

To analyze these changes, we evaluated the effects of factors in conditioned media (CM) derived from explants of human breast adipose tissue from tumor (hATT) or normal (hATN) on morphology, degree of browning, the levels of adiposity, maturity, and lipolytic-related markers in 3T3-L1 white adipocytes by Western blot, indirect immunofluorescence and lipolytic assay. We analyzed subcellular localization of UCP1, perilipin 1 (Plin1), HSL and ATGL in adipocytes incubated with different CM by indirect immunofluorescence. Additionally, we evaluated changes in adipocyte intracellular signal pathways.

Results

We found that adipocytes incubated with hATT-CM displayed characteristics that morphologically resembled beige/brown adipocytes with smaller cell size and higher number of small and micro lipid droplets (LDs), with less triglyceride content. Both, hATT-CM and hATN-CM, increased Pref-1, C/EBPβ LIP/LAP ratio, PPARγ, and caveolin 1 expression in white adipocytes. UCP1, PGC1α and TOMM20 increased only in adipocytes that were treated with hATT-CM. Also, hATT-CM increased the levels of Plin1 and HSL, while decreased ATGL. hATT-CM modified the subcellular localization of the lipolytic markers, favoring their relative content around micro-LDs and induced Plin1 segregation. Furthermore, the levels of p-HSL, p-ERK and p-AKT increased in white adipocytes after incubation with hATT-CM.

Conclusions

In summary, these findings allow us to conclude that adipocytes attached to the tumor could induce white adipocyte browning and increase lipolysis as a means for endocrine/paracrine signaling. Thus, adipocytes from the tumor microenvironment exhibit an activated phenotype that could have been induced not only by secreted soluble factors from tumor cells but also by paracrine action from other adipocytes present in this microenvironment, suggesting a “domino effect”.
Floating wave energy harvester: a new perspective
Authors: Deligianni Angeliki , Drikos Leonidas
Published: April 2023

Sustainable development principles have brought forth the imperative to harness renewable energy sources to conserve our fragile ecosystems. Among the various renewable energy options, ocean wave energy has garnered significant global interest and is now poised as a leading contender. However, current wave energy collection methods suffer from limitations and technical immaturity, thereby necessitating the need for a more advanced and innovative solution. This paper presents a concept for the development of a floating wave harvester, which aims to convert the energy of ocean waves into usable electrical energy. The focus of this document is to outline the methodology behind the design and construction of the harvester’s buoys, which play a crucial role in determining the overall effectiveness of the system. The buoy shape and material choice are critical to the harvester’s dynamic behavior, energy absorption capacity, and the ability to transform wave kinetic energy into direct and indirect electrical energy. The primary objectives of this ongoing research project are to define the system requirements and specifications and to implement these through practical application. The development of this floating wave harvester holds the potential to significantly contribute to the renewable energy landscape and make significant strides in sustainable development.
New insights into the genetic structure of the outbreak-prone bamboo grasshoppers
Authors: Song Zimeng , Ze Sangzi , Liu Chunxiang , Chen Bing
Published: April 2023

Introduction

The genetic structure of species is shaped by natural (e.g., terrain, climate) and non-natural (e.g., human activities) factors. Geographical isolation and natural barriers are important causes of genetic structure formation of species. Here, we explored this issue in bamboo grasshopper, Ceracris kiangsu, which is an important pest that feeds on bamboo in East and Southeastern Asia.

Methods

Based on 186 newly sequenced and 286 previously sequenced mitochondrial COI fragments, and 8 nuclear microsatellite loci, we examined the genetic diversity and population genetic structure of C. kiangsu.

Results

The degree of genetic differentiation among populations was also high, and Mantel test showed that it was significantly correlated with geographical distance. Principal coordinate analysis and STRUCTURE results revealed two genetically different groups, a South China (S-China) Group and a Southeast Asia (SE-Asia) Group. Climate variables partly explained the population genetic structure. The demographic history and ABC showed that the S-China Group experienced population expansion, whereas the SE-Asia Group was consistently stable.

Discussion

Our study demonstrates an obvious population structure maintained in this migratory insect and reveals the potential effect of past climatic change, geographical isolation, and ecological factors on the evolution of their genetic structure.
Exploring the feasibility of technological transfers of two by-catch reduction devices in the crustacean bottom trawling of the central Mediterranean
Authors: Geraci Michele Luca , Sardo Giacomo , Scannella Danilo , Falsone Fabio , Di Maio Federico , Gancitano Vita , Fiorentino Fabio , Chirco Pierangela , Massi Daniela , Vitale Sergio
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Most Mediterranean fish stocks are overexploited owing to high fishing efforts and poor exploitation patterns. Demersal trawl fisheries are considered the most impactful fishery type because of the high quantities of unwanted catch that is then routinely discarded at sea.

Methods

In the present study, two types of by-catch reduction devices (BRDs), that is a sorting grid (Grid-T45 40 mm) and a T90 50 mm codend, were compared to a typical commercial bottom trawl net (control) in terms of size structures and catch per unit effort to assess the effect of gear modification on the selectivity of crustacean fisheries in the central Mediterranean Sea. In particular, three randomly selected trawlers were involved in a paired hauls experiment fishing at the same time in the same fishing ground. Each trawler carried out four hauls per day during a 3-day campaign for a total of 36 hauls. The target species of the fishery is Parapenaeus longirostris (herein DPS), and the main commercial by-catch is Merluccius merluccius (herein HKE).

Results

The results showed that the landing per unit effort (LPUE) of DPS was higher for Grid-T45 40 mm net, although it did not differ significantly from that of the control net. Conversely, the discard per unit effort (DPUE) of the control net was significantly higher than of both BRD configurations. For HKE, a slightly higher LPUE was recorded using the T90 50 mm codend compared to that of the control, but this result was not statistically significant. The lowest DPUE was found for the T90 50 mm codend, with significant differences compared to that of the control and Grid-T45 40 mm net. The catch comparison of the size structures analysed through generalised linear mixed models highlighted that the Grid-T45 40 mm net was more effective in catching adult DPS, whereas the T90 50 mm codend was more selective for adult HKE.

Discussion

In conclusion, although further studies should be carried out in future to test the performance of the BRDs in different areas and seasons, the investigated gear seems to be promising for reducing the catch of undersized individuals and contributing to mitigating the current overfishing of DPS and HKE.
Data quality control considerations in multivariate environmental monitoring: experience of the French coastal network SOMLIT
Authors: Breton Elsa , Savoye Nicolas , Rimmelin-Maury Peggy , Sautour Benoit , Goberville Eric , Lheureux Arnaud , Cariou Thierry , Ferreira Sophie , Agogué Hélène , Alliouane Samir , Aubert Fabien , Aubin Sébastien , Berthebaud Eric , Blayac Hadrien , Blondel Lucie , Boulart Cédric , Bozec Yann , Bureau Sarah , Caillo Arnaud , Cauvin Arnaud , Cazes Jean-Baptiste , Chasselin Léo , Claquin Pascal , Conan Pascal , Cordier Marie-Ange , Costes Laurence , Crec’hriou Romain , Crispi Olivier , Crouvoisier Muriel , David Valérie , Del Amo Yolanda , De Lary Hortense , Delebecq Gaspard , Devesa Jeremy , Domeau Aurélien , Durozier Maria , Emery Claire , Feunteun Eric , Fauchot Juliette , Gentilhomme Valérie , Geslin Sandrine , Giraud Mélanie , Grangeré Karine , Grégori Gerald , Grossteffan Emilie , Gueux Aurore , Guillaudeau Julien , Guillou Gael , Harrewyn Manon , Jolly Orianne , Jude-Lemeilleur Florence , Labatut Paul , Labourdette Nathalie , Lachaussée Nicolas , Lafont Michel , Lagadec Veronique , Lambert Christophe , Lamoureux Jezebel , Lanceleur Laurent , Lebreton Benoit , Lecuyer Eric , Lemeille David , Leredde Yann , Leroux Cédric , Leynaert Aude , L’Helguen Stéphane , Liénart Camilla , Macé Eric , Maria Eric , Marie Barbara , Marie Dominique , Mas Sébastien , Mendes Fabrice , Mornet Line , Mostajir Behzad , Mousseau Laure , Nowaczyk Antoine , Nunige Sandra , Parra René , Paulin Thomas , Pecqueur David , Petit Franck , Pineau Philippe , Raimbault Patrick , Rigaut-Jalabert Fabienne , Salmeron Christophe , Salter Ian , Sauriau Pierre-Guy , Seuront Laurent , Sultan Emmanuelle , Valdès Rémi , Vantrepotte Vincent , Vidussi Francesca , Voron Florian , Vuillemin Renaud , Zudaire Laurent. , Garcia Nicole
Published: April 2023

Introduction

While crucial to ensuring the production of accurate and high-quality data—and to avoid erroneous conclusions—data quality control (QC) in environmental monitoring datasets is still poorly documented.

Methods

With a focus on annual inter-laboratory comparison (ILC) exercises performed in the context of the French coastal monitoring SOMLIT network, we share here a pragmatic approach to QC, which allows the calculation of systematic and random errors, measurement uncertainty, and individual performance. After an overview of the different QC actions applied to fulfill requirements for quality and competence, we report equipment, accommodation, design of the ILC exercises, and statistical methodology specially adapted to small environmental networks (<20 laboratories) and multivariate datasets. Finally, the expanded uncertainty of measurement for 20 environmental variables routinely measured by SOMLIT from discrete sampling—including Essential Ocean Variables—is provided.

Results, Discussion, Conclusion

The examination of the temporal variations (2001–2021) in the repeatability, reproducibility, and trueness of the SOMLIT network over time confirms the essential role of ILC exercises as a tool for the continuous improvement of data quality in environmental monitoring datasets.
A study on the influence of reposition threshold on low-carbon empty container repositioning strategy under an uncertain environment
Authors: Tang Xin , Xu Changyan , Wang Chuanxu , Song Jingyao
Published: April 2023

The optimization of empty container repositioning nets has become an essential problem in low-carbon port cooperation. This paper proposed three optimization models of multi-port low-carbon empty container repositioning considering threshold under input and output of empty containers as random variables. Non repositioning strategy means the highest threshold, and complete-repositioning strategy means the lowest threshold; threshold-repositioning strategy is in the middle. The probability of empty-container inventory in each port and the storage cost, repositioning cost, lease cost, and carbon emission cost of empty containers are calculated. This paper mainly compares each cost of three models. The results have shown that: (1) Compared with the non repositioning strategy, the threshold-repositioning strategy and complete-repositioning strategy can reduce the ports storage costs and lease costs of empty containers and also reduce carbon emissions. The lower the repositioning threshold of empty containers between ports is, the more obvious the advantages of the threshold-repositioning strategy become. (2) When the cost of storage per empty container increases, under three strategies, the total cost, storage cost, lease cost, and carbon emission cost of the port will all increase. The ports proportion of dependence on its own empty-container storage will decrease, and the proportion of dependence on other ports and leasing companies will both increase.
Ten-year trends of the clinicopathological characteristics, surgical treatments and survival outcomes of operable lung cancer patients in monocenter: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Zhao Dechang , He Xiaotian , Zhang Rusi , Huang Zirui , Wen Yingsheng , Zhang Xuewen , Wang Gongming , Guo Guangran , Chen Lianjuan , Zhang Lanjun
Published: April 2023

Background

Lung cancer is one of the cancers with the highest morbidity and mortality. During the last decade, the trends of clinical characteristics, surgical treatments and survival of lung cancer patients in China have remained unclear.

Methods

All lung cancer patients operated on from 2011 to 2020 were identified in a prospectively maintained database of Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center.

Results

A total of 7,800 lung cancer patients were included in this study. Within the past 10 years, the average age at diagnosis of the patients remained stable, the proportion of asymptomatic, female and nonsmoking patients increased, and the average tumor size decreased from 3.766 to 2.300 cm. In addition, the proportion of early stage and adenocarcinoma increased, while that of squamous cell carcinoma decreased. Among the patients, the proportion of patients having video-assisted thoracic surgery increased. More than 80% of the patients underwent lobectomy and systematic nodal dissection over the 10 years. Additionally, both the average postoperative length of stay and 1-, 3-, and 6-month postoperative mortality decreased. Moreover, the 1-, 3-, and 5-year overall survival (OS) rates of all the operable patients increased from 89.8, 73.9, and 63.8% to 99.6, 90.7, and 80.8%, respectively. The 5-year OS rates of the patients with stage I, II, and III lung cancer were 87.6, 79.9, and 59.9%, respectively, which were higher than those in other published data.

Conclusion

There were significant changes in the clinicopathological characteristics, surgical treatments and survival outcomes of the patients with operable lung cancer from 2011 to 2020.
18F-FDG primary tumor uptake to improve N status prediction in cT1 non-metastatic non-small cell lung cancer: development and validation of a positron emission tomography model
Authors: Morland David , Chiappetta Marco , Falcoz Pierre-Emmanuel , Chenard Marie-Pierre , Annunziata Salvatore , Boldrini Luca , Lococo Filippo , Imperiale Alessio
Published: April 2023

Purpose:

Occult lymph node involvement is a major issue in the management of non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC), with an estimated prevalence of approximately 2.9–21.6% in 18F-FDG PET/CT series. The aim of the study is to construct a PET model to improve lymph node assessment.

Methods:

Patients with a non-metastatic cT1 NSCLC were retrospectively included from two centers, one used to constitute the training set, the other for the validation set. The best multivariate model based on Akaike’s information criterion was selected, considering age, sex, visual assessment of lymph node (cN0 status), lymph node SUVmax, primary tumor location, tumor size, and tumoral SUVmax (T_SUVmax). A threshold minimizing false pN0 prediction was chosen. This model was then applied to the validation set.

Results:

In total, 162 patients were included (training set: 44, validation set: 118). A model combining cN0 status and T_SUVmax was selected (AUC 0.907, specificity at threshold: 88.2%). In the validation cohort, this model resulted in an AUC of 0.832 and a specificity of 92.3% versus 65.4% for visual interpretation alone (p = 0.02). A total of two false N0 predictions were noted (1 pN1 and 1 pN2).

Conclusion:

Primary tumor SUVmax improves N status prediction and could allow a better selection of patients who are candidates for minimally invasive approaches.
Functional characterization of two 3-dehydroquinases of AroQ1 and AroQ2 in the shikimate pathway and expression of genes for the type III secretion system in Ralstonia solanacearum
Authors: Zhang Qingshan , Wu Bofan , Han Liangliang , Yu Duan , Liang Tao , Wang Yan , Guo Tao
Published: April 2023

The shikimate pathway is a general route for the biosynthesis of aromatic amino acids (AAAs) in many microorganisms. A 3-dehydroquinase, AroQ, controls the third step of the shikimate pathway that catalyzes the formation of 3-dehydroquinate from 3-dehydroshikimate via a trans-dehydration reaction. Ralstonia solanacearum harbors two 3-dehydroquinases, AroQ1 and AroQ2, sharing 52% similarity in amino acids. Here, we demonstrated that two 3-dehydroquinases, AroQ1 and AroQ2, are essential for the shikimate pathway in R. solanacearum. The growth of R. solanacearum was completely diminished in a nutriment-limited medium with the deletion of both aroQ1 and aroQ2, while substantially impaired in planta. The aroQ1/2 double mutant was able to replicate in planta but grew slowly, which was ~4 orders of magnitude less than the parent strain to proliferate to the maximum cell densities in tomato xylem vessels. Moreover, the aroQ1/2 double mutant failed to cause disease in tomato and tobacco plants, whereas the deletion of either aroQ1 or aroQ2 did not alter the growth of R. solanacearum or pathogenicity on host plants. Supplementary shikimic acid (SA), an important intermediate of the shikimate pathway, substantially restored the diminished or impaired growth of aroQ1/2 double mutant in a limited medium or inside host plants. The necessity of AroQ1 and AroQ2 on the pathogenicity of solanacearum toward host plants was partially due to insufficient SA inside host plants. Moreover, the deletion of both aroQ1 and aroQ2 significantly impaired the expression of genes for the type III secretion system (T3SS) both in vitro and in planta. Its involvement in the T3SS was mediated through the well-characterized PrhA signaling cascade and was independent of growth deficiency under nutrient-limited conditions. Taken together, R. solanacearum 3-dehydroquinases play important roles in bacterial growth, the expression of the T3SS, and pathogenicity in host plants. These results could extend our insights into the understanding of the biological function of AroQ and the sophisticated regulation of the T3SS in R. solanacearum.
Spinal cords: Symphonies of interneurons across species
Authors: Wilson Alexia C. , Sweeney Lora B.
Published: April 2023

Vertebrate movement is orchestrated by spinal inter- and motor neurons that, together with sensory and cognitive input, produce dynamic motor behaviors. These behaviors vary from the simple undulatory swimming of fish and larval aquatic species to the highly coordinated running, reaching and grasping of mice, humans and other mammals. This variation raises the fundamental question of how spinal circuits have changed in register with motor behavior. In simple, undulatory fish, exemplified by the lamprey, two broad classes of interneurons shape motor neuron output: ipsilateral-projecting excitatory neurons, and commissural-projecting inhibitory neurons. An additional class of ipsilateral inhibitory neurons is required to generate escape swim behavior in larval zebrafish and tadpoles. In limbed vertebrates, a more complex spinal neuron composition is observed. In this review, we provide evidence that movement elaboration correlates with an increase and specialization of these three basic interneuron types into molecularly, anatomically, and functionally distinct subpopulations. We summarize recent work linking neuron types to movement-pattern generation across fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals.
Efficacy and safety of Tongmai Jiangtang capsule combined with conventional therapy in the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Sun Lin-xi , Li Yuan-yuan , Xie Yan-ming
Published: April 2023

Background

Recently, more and more Chinese patent drugs have been proved to be effective in the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). Tongmai Jiangtang capsule (TJC) is one of the representative ones. The present meta-analysis integrated data from several independent studies to determine the efficacy and safety of TJCs combined with routine hypoglycemic therapy for DPN patients, and to evaluate the quality of evidence.

Methods

SinoMed, Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, CNKI, Wanfang, VIP databases and registers were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving TJC treatment of DPN up to February 18, 2023. Two researchers independently used the Cochrane risk bias tool and comprehensive reporting criteria for Chinese medicine trials to evaluate the methodological quality and reporting quality of the qualified studies. RevMan5.4 was used for Meta-analysis and evidence evaluation, with scores determined for recommendations, evaluation, development and GRADE. The Cochrane Collaboration ROB tool was used to evaluate the quality of the literature. The results of Meta-analysis were represented by forest plots.

Results

A total of 8 studies were included involving a total sample size of 656 cases. TJCs combined with conventional treatment (CT) could significantly accelerate myoelectricity graphic nerve conduction velocity, including that median nerve motor conduction velocity was faster than those of CT alone [mean difference (MD) = 5.20, 95% confidence interval (CI): 4.31–6.10, P < 0.00001], peroneal nerve motor conduction velocity was faster than those of CT alone (MD = 2.66, 95% CI: 1.63–3.68; P < 0.00001), median nerve sensory conduction velocity was faster than those of CT alone (MD = 3.06, 95% CI: 2.32–3.81, P < 0.00001), and peroneal nerve sensory conduction velocity was faster than those of CT alone (MD = 4.23, 95% CI: 3.30–5.16, P < 0.00001). The total efficiency of the TJCs + CT group was higher than that of the CT group (RR = 1.41, 95% CI: 1.28–1.56, P < 0.00001). The HbA1c after treatment in the TJCs + CT group was lower than that in the CT group (P < 0.05). No adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were reported in the combined TJCs or CT groups.

Conclusions

TJCs combined with CT reduced the severity of DPN symptoms and no treatment-associated ADRs were reported. However, these results should be considered with caution because there was marked heterogeneity in the research data. Therefore, more stringent RCTs should be designed to validate the efficacy of TJCs in DPN patients.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=264522, identifier: CRD42021264522.
Multimodal mechanical stimulation reduces acute and chronic low back pain: Pilot data from a HEAL phase 1 study
Authors: Baxter Amy L. , Thrasher Anderson , Etnoyer-Slaski Jena L. , Cohen Lindsey L.
Published: April 2023

Background

Effective non-opioid pain management is of great clinical importance. The objective of this pilot study was to evaluate the effectiveness of multimodal mechanical stimulation therapy on low back pain.

Methods

11 female and 9 male patients aged 22–74 years (Mean 41.9 years, SD 11.04) receiving physical rehabilitation for acute (12) or chronic (8) low back pain chose heat (9) or ice (11) to accompany a 20-minute session of mechanical stimulation (M-Stim) therapy (Registered with Clinicaltrials.gov NCT04494841.) The M-Stim was delivered in 12 possible repeating “therapy cycle” patterns by three vibration motors (50 Hz, 100 Hz, 200 Hz) with amplitudes between 0.1–0.3 m/s2. Ten patients used a contained motor chassis attached to a thermoconductive single-curve metal plate. The next 10 patients' device had motors attached directly to a multidimensionally curved plate.

Results

Mean pain on a 10 cm Visual Analog Scale (VAS) with the first motor/plate configuration went from 4.9 ± 2.3 cm to 2.5 ± 2.1 cm (57% decrease, p = 0.0112), while the second reduced pain from 4.8 ± 2.0 cm to 3.2 ± 1.9 cm (45%, p = 0.0353). Initial pain was greater with acute injury (5.8 ± 2.0 cm vs. 3.98 ± 1.8, p = 0.025) and for patients older than 40 (5.44 vs. 4.52), but pain reduction was proportional for chronic and younger patients. There was no significant difference between plate configurations.

Conclusions

A Phase I clinical pilot investigation on a multi-motor multi-modal device was promising for drug free pain relief. Results suggested pain relief independent of thermal modality, patient age, or pain chronicity. Future research should investigate pain reduction over time for acute and chronic pain.

Clinical Trial Registration

https://ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT04494841.
Yangjing capsule improves oligoasthenozoospermia by promoting nitric oxide production through PLCγ1/AKT/eNOS pathway
Authors: Deng Weimin , Sun Dalin , Cai Bin , Jin Baofang
Published: April 2023

Background: Oligoasthenozoospermia is an important factor leading to male infertility. Yangjing capsule (YC), a traditional Chinese preparation, displays beneficial effects on male infertility. However, whether YC could improve oligoasthenozoospermia remains unclear.

Methods: In this study, we aimed to explore the effect of YC in the treatment of oligoasthenozoospermia. Male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were treated with 800 mg/kg ornidazole once daily for 30 days to induce in vivo oligoasthenozoospermia; primary Sertoli cells were treated with 400 μg/mL ornidazole for 24 h to induce in vitro oligoasthenozoospermia.

Results: We found that YC improved the testicle and epididymis weight, sperm concentration, sperm progressive motility, serum testosterone, fertility rate and testis morphology in ornidazole-exposed rats and enhanced cell survival in ornidazole-stimulated primary Sertoli cells. YC also inhibited the ornidazole-caused decrease in nitric oxide (NO) generation and the phosphorylation of phospholipase C γ1 (PLCγ1), AKT, and eNOS in vivo and in vitro in oligoasthenozoospermia. Furthermore, the knockdown of PLCγ1 blunted the beneficial effects of YC in vitro.

Conclusion: Collectively, our data suggested that YC protected against oligoasthenozoospermia by promoting NO levels through the PLCγ1/AKT/eNOS pathway.
Current understanding of genetic associations with delayed hypersensitivity reactions induced by antibiotics and anti-osteoporotic drugs
Authors: Wung Chih-Hsuan , Wang Chuang-Wei , Lai Kuo-Chu , Chen Chun-Bing , Chen Wei-Ti , Hung Shuen-Iu , Chung Wen-Hung ,   Taiwan Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reaction Consortium
Published: April 2023

Drug-induced delayed hypersensitivity reactions (DHRs) is still a clinical and healthcare burden in every country. Increasing reports of DHRs have caught our attention to explore the genetic relationship, especially life-threatening severe cutaneous adverse drug reactions (SCARs), including acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), drug reactions with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), Stevens–Johnson syndrome (SJS), and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN). In recent years, many studies have investigated the immune mechanism and genetic markers of DHRs. Besides, several studies have stated the associations between antibiotics-as well as anti-osteoporotic drugs (AOD)-induced SCARs and specific human leukocyte antigens (HLA) alleles. Strong associations between drugs and HLA alleles such as co-trimoxazole-induced DRESS and HLA-B*13:01 (Odds ratio (OR) = 45), dapsone-DRESS and HLA-B*13:01 (OR = 122.1), vancomycin-DRESS and HLA-A*32:01 (OR = 403), clindamycin-DHRs and HLA-B*15:27 (OR = 55.6), and strontium ranelate (SR)-SJS/TEN and HLA-A*33:03 (OR = 25.97) are listed. We summarized the immune mechanism of SCARs, update the latest knowledge of pharmacogenomics of antibiotics- and AOD-induced SCARs, and indicate the potential clinical use of these genetic markers for SCARs prevention in this mini review article.
Switchable acoustic projection displays based on coding composite structures
Authors: Han Jianning , Wang Rui
Published: April 2023

Projection display is of relevance for various applications, for example, information communication, encryption and storage. Although numerous optical projection devices have been reported in past years, the realization of switchable acoustic projection display without built-in circuits is a challenge. In this work, we propose a coding composite structure composed of a perforated plate and a coiling-up cavity with six interdigital rigid walls to achieve switchable acoustic projection displays. The configuration can be served as bits ‘0’ and ‘1’ by using forward and backward placements, respectively. The required projection can be displayed as long as the expected image regions are filled with bit ‘1’ and other regions are filled with bit ‘0’. By switching control wave Pc, the projected image is able to be switched from ‘Off state’ to ‘On state’ accordingly. The underlying physical mechanism is the different scattering responses between two coding bits induced by coherent superposition. Our design provides an effective solution for the construction of acoustic projection displays with switchable feature, which may have potential applications in information encryption and storage.
MicroRNA in medication related osteonecrosis of the jaw: a review
Authors: Mohd Yunus Siti Salmiah , Soh Hui Yuh , Abdul Rahman Mariati , Peng Xin , Guo Chuanbin , Ramli Roszalina
Published: April 2023

Medication related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is a condition caused by inhibition of the osteoclast activity by the anti-resorptive and anti-angiogenic drugs. Clinically, there is an exposure of the necrotic bone or a fistula which fails to heal for more than 8 weeks. The adjacent soft tissue is inflamed and pus may be present as a result of the secondary infection. To date, there is no consistent biomarker that could aid in the diagnosis of the disease. The aim of this review was to explore the literature on the microRNAs (miRNAs) related to medication related osteonecrosis of the jaw, and to describe the role of each miRNA as a biomarker for diagnostic purpose and others. Its role in therapeutics was also searched. It was shown that miR-21, miR-23a, and miR-145 were significantly different in a study involving multiple myeloma patients as well as in a human-animal study while miR-23a-3p and miR-23b-3p were 12- to 14-fold upregulated compared to the control group in an animal study. The role of the microRNAs in these studies were for diagnostics, predictor of progress of MRONJ and pathogenesis. Apart from its potential diagnostics role, microRNAs have been shown to be bone resorption regulator through miR-21, miR-23a and miR-145 and this could be utilized therapeutically.