bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Added value of 3D echocardiography in the diagnosis and prognostication of patients with right ventricular dysfunction
Authors: Randazzo Michael , Maffessanti Francesco , Kotta Alekhya , Grapsa Julia , Lang Roberto M. , Addetia Karima
Published: December 2023

Recent inroads into percutaneous-based options for the treatment of tricuspid valve disease has brought to light how little we know about the behavior of the right ventricle in both health and disease and how incomplete our assessment of right ventricular (RV) physiology and function is using current non-invasive technology, in particular echocardiography. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of what three-dimensional echocardiography (3DE) can offer currently to enhance RV evaluation and what the future may hold if we continue to improve the 3D evaluation of the right heart.
Comparison of esketamine versus dexmedetomidine for attenuation of cardiovascular stress response to double-lumen tracheal tube intubation: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Liu Chunyu , Zhang Tianhua , Cao Longhui , Lin Wenqian
Published: December 2023

Introduction

The insertion of a double-lumen tracheal tube may cause a transient but more intense sympathetic response. We examined the effects of esketamine vs. dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant to anesthesia induction to blunt double lumen tracheal (DLT) intubation induced cardiovascular stress response.

Methods

In a randomized, double-blind trial, 78 adult patients scheduled for elective thoracotomy under general anesthesia requiring DLT intubation were enrolled. The patients were randomly divided into three groups: each group received one of the following drugs prior to induction of anesthesia: dexmedetomidine 0.8 µg/kg (Group A), esketamine 0.5 mg/kg (Group B), or normal saline (group C). The primary outcome was the incidence of a DLT intubation-related cardiovascular stress response, defined as an increase in mean arterial pressure or heart rate of >30% above the baseline values. The secondary outcomes were changes in hemodynamic and cardiac function.

Results

The incidence of the response to cardiovascular stress was 23.1%, 30.8%, and 65.4% in groups A, B, and C, respectively. There was a significant decrease in intubation response in groups A and B in comparison with group C (P < 0.01); however, there was no significant difference between group A and group B (P > 0.05). Following the drug infusion and the induction of anesthesia, there was a significant decrease in HR and cardiac output in group A compared with group B. In contrast, no significant differences were observed in the left ventricular ejection fraction or in stroke volume between the three groups during induction of anesthesia.

Discussion

Esketamine 0.5 mg/kg and dexmedetomidine 0.8 µg/kg attenuate cardiovascular stress responses related to DLT intubation. As adjuvants to etomidate induction, they do not impair cardiac function (ChiCTR1900028030).
Interrater variability of ML-based CT-FFR during TAVR-planning: influence of image quality and coronary artery calcifications
Authors: Gohmann Robin F. , Schug Adrian , Pawelka Konrad , Seitz Patrick , Majunke Nicolas , El Hadi Hamza , Heiser Linda , Renatus Katharina , Desch Steffen , Leontyev Sergey , Noack Thilo , Kiefer Philipp , Krieghoff Christian , Lücke Christian , Ebel Sebastian , Borger Michael A. , Thiele Holger , Panknin Christoph , Abdel-Wahab Mohamed , Horn Matthias , Gutberlet Matthias
Published: December 2023

Objective

To compare machine learning (ML)-based CT-derived fractional flow reserve (CT-FFR) in patients before transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) by observers with differing training and to assess influencing factors.

Background

Coronary computed tomography angiography (cCTA) can effectively exclude CAD, e.g. prior to TAVR, but remains limited by its specificity. CT-FFR may mitigate this limitation also in patients prior to TAVR. While a high reliability of CT-FFR is presumed, little is known about the reproducibility of ML-based CT-FFR.

Methods

Consecutive patients with obstructive CAD on cCTA were evaluated with ML-based CT-FFR by two observers. Categorization into hemodynamically significant CAD was compared against invasive coronary angiography. The influence of image quality and coronary artery calcium score (CAC) was examined.

Results

CT-FFR was successfully performed on 214/272 examinations by both observers. The median difference of CT-FFR between both observers was −0.05(−0.12-0.02) (p < 0.001). Differences showed an inverse correlation to the absolute CT-FFR values. Categorization into CAD was different in 37/214 examinations, resulting in net recategorization of Δ13 (13/214) examinations and a difference in accuracy of Δ6.1%. On patient level, correlation of absolute and categorized values was substantial (0.567 and 0.570, p < 0.001). Categorization into CAD showed no correlation to image quality or CAC (p > 0.13).

Conclusion

Differences between CT-FFR values increased in values below the cut-off, having little clinical impact. Categorization into CAD differed in several patients, but ultimately only had a moderate influence on diagnostic accuracy. This was independent of image quality or CAC.
Student perspectives on their digital footprint in virtual learning environments
Authors: Rakow Katie E. , Upsher Rebecca J. , Foster Juliet L. H. , Byrom Nicola C. , Dommett Eleanor J.
Published: December 2023

The prevalence of mental distress among young adults, including those at university, has increased. In this context, learning analytics, students’ digital trace data, are increasingly being used to understand student mental health. In line with calls for more research on learning analytics from student perspectives, as part of a broader focus group study, 44 undergraduate students from three United Kingdom universities were invited to consider how they felt about having a digital footprint on their virtual learning environment (VLE). Two main themes were constructed using reflexive thematic analysis. First, students’ responses depended on the perceived threat to their privacy and identity. Some students were indifferent if no threat was perceived, but expressed unease if there was. Second, some students expressed personal preference for autonomy over use of their VLE data. Two uses identified were for non-judgmental personalized support, and using aggregated data to improve student learning. These themes suggest how the use of educational digital data can, under some circumstances, impact wellbeing negatively. The students’ perspectives garnered from the focus groups could have implications for policy and practice concerning privacy and surveillance, the possibility for misuse or misinterpretation of data, and informed consent. This small study supports the importance of partnering with students to develop and implement guidance for how VLE learning analytics data are used and interpreted by students and staff, including lecturers, to protect and enhance student mental wellbeing.
Exploring public participation process and its differing degrees in influencing risk perception within the petrochemical industry: a scoping review
Authors: Gheitasi Mahdi , Serrano Giné David , Pérez-Albert Yolanda
Published: December 2023

To evaluate perceived risk, it is necessary to understand both the type of risk and the residents’ perceptions. With the rise of information on technology and digital platforms, new avenues have emerged for examining citizens’ risk perception in participatory settings. However, the lack of theoretical and methodological approaches in this area calls for further research. The objective of this article is to fill the existing research gap by conducting a scoping review of published literature that examines risk perception related to the petrochemical industry, specifically focusing on digital platforms and the utilization of participatory processes in assessing risk perception within this industry context. The review analyzes the types of questions and responses encountered during participatory processes. The authors selected and studied 10 papers in-depth after applying specific selection criteria. They identified two types of risks—natural and technological—associated with the petrochemical industry, and two types of questions: general questions such as demographics, education, and employment, and specific questions such as risk perception, trust in government and company information, type of risk, or proximity to polluted areas. The paper identifies two question types in participatory processes: general and specific. It emphasizes that the most frequent participation level is consultation, involving seeking public feedback for decision-making. Risk perception is a common topic in participatory processes, highlighting the importance of understanding and addressing public concerns about activities risks. Understanding risk and questions raised during participation is crucial to studying risk perception. This knowledge can improve policies, identify risk mitigation solutions, and identify relevant questions to aid in logical answers.

Systematic Review Registration:http://www.prisma-statement.org/?AspxAutoDetectCookieSupport=1
Prediction of future potential distributions of Pinus yunnanensis varieties under climate change
Authors: Feng Jian , Wang Bilei , Xian Mingrui , Zhou Shixing , Huang Congde , Cui Xinglei
Published: December 2023

Pinus yunnanensis Franch. (Pinaceae) is an important endemic tree species that serves as a critical constituent of the forest ecosystems and plays a significant role in forestry economic production in southwest China. P. yunnanensis comprises three varieties: var. yunnanensis, var. pygmaea and var. tenuifolia, with significant variation in traits, such as height and leaf size. This study aims to characterize the habitat conditions of the three varieties and predict their potential future distributions by employing MaxEnt model. Temperature seasonality (BIO4) emerged as the most influential factor affecting the distribution of var. yunnanensis; isothermally (BIO3) stands out as the most critical factor for the distribution of var. pygmaea; whereas mean annual fire occurrence (MAF) had the greatest impact on the distribution of var. tenuifolia. Under future climate conditions, the highly and moderately suitable habitats for all the three varieties are projected to decrease, while the lowly suitable habitats are projected to increase. The distribution centroids of all the three varieties are anticipated to shift to higher latitudes. Our study characterized the habitat conditions and predicted the potential future distribution of the three Pinus yunnanensis varieties, which could help the conservation and utilization of Pinus yunnanensis varieties.
A climate-spatial matrix growth model for major tree species in Lesser Khingan Mountains and responses of forest dynamics change to different representative concentration path scenarios
Authors: Sheng Qi , Liu Zhaogang , Dong LingBo
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Climate change affects forest distribution, species composition, structure, and yield due to the sensitivity of forests to temperature, precipitation, and CO2. Therefore, for forest management decisions regarding climate change, it is crucial to explore the response of forest growth, mortality, and recruitment to future climate. We aimed to establish tree species’ responses by introducing variables such as climate, stand spatial structure parameters, and diversity indices.

Methods

We produced fixed parameter transition matrix model (FM), climate-sensitive matrix growth model (CM) and climate-spatial matrix growth model (SCM) using data from 786 plots collected during the 7th (2010), and 8th (2015), Chinese National Forest Inventories in Heilongjiang Province, and long-term predictive performance of CM, SCM, and FM were compared using same data. The models were compared using tenfold cross-validation and long-term predictive performance analysis. To predict the response of major tree species in the Lesser Khingan Mountains to three future climate change scenarios (RCP2.6, RCP4.5, RCP8.5).

Results and discussion

The cross-validation results show small significant differences among the three models for short-term prediction (5 years), with the FM performing slightly better than the CM and the SCM. In contrast, for long-term projections (85 years), SCM outperformed FM and CM under three different RCPs, and SCM and CM under three representative concentration paths (RCPs), i.e., RCP2.6, RCP4.5, and RCP8.5, suggesting that rather different dynamics are more reliable, since climatic factors are taken into account which may significantly affect forest dynamics, while changes in stand spatial structure also affect the sensitivity of trees to climate, especially in long-term prediction interval, the results of this paper may provide a theoretical basis for optimizing forest management strategies under climate change.
Evidence for genetic causal relationships between gut microbiome, metabolites, and myasthenia gravis: a bidirectional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Sheng Dandan , Wang Song , Li Peihong , Li Jiaxin , Xiao Zheng , Lv Hui , Liu Weiping , Xiao Bo , Zhou Luo
Published: December 2023

Background

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease observed to have connections with gut microbiome. We aimed to systematically assess the causal relationships between gut microbiome, gut microbiome-derived metabolites, and MG using Mendelian randomization (MR) approach.

Methods

Summary-level genetic datasets from large-scale genome-wide association studies regarding 196 gut microbial taxa from the MiBioGen consortium (n=18,340), 72 derived metabolites from the TwinsUK and KORA studies (n=7,824), and antiacetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibody-positive MG (case=1,873, control=36,370) were employed for MR causal estimates. The inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method was utilized as the main analysis with MR-Egger, maximum likelihood, simple mode, and weighted median as complements. The tests of Cochran’s Q, MR-Egger intercept, Steiger, MR-PRESSO and leave-one-out were implemented for sensitivity analyses.

Results

The forward MR estimates of IVW revealed significant causal associations of the abundance of phylum Actinobacteria, class Gammaproteobacteria, family Defluviitaleac, family Family XIII, and family Peptococcaceae with a reduced risk of MG. Conversely, the abundance of phylum Lentisphaerae, order Mollicutes RF9, order Victivallales, and genus Faecalibacterium was causally associated with an increased risk of MG. The reversed MR analysis proved negative causal correlations between the MG and the abundance of family Peptostreptococcaceae, genus Romboutsia, and genus Subdoligranulum. Regarding the derived metabolites, the IVW estimates revealed that elevated levels of beta-hydroxyisovalerate and methionine were causally associated with a decreased risk of MG, while increased levels of choline and kynurenine were linked to an increased risk of MG. Furthermore, genetically predicted MG was associated with a decreased level of cholesterol. The results obtained from complementary MR methods were similar. These findings remained robust in all sensitivity analyses.

Conclusion

Our MR findings support the causal effects of specific gut microbiome taxa and derived metabolites on AChR antibody-positive MG, and vice versa, yielding novel insights into prevention and therapy targets of MG. Future studies may be warranted for validation and pursuing the precise mechanisms.
Effects of participatory ‘A’rt-Based Activity On ‘Health’ of Older Community-Dwellers: results from a randomized control trial of the Singapore A-Health Intervention
Authors: Ho Andy Hau Yan , Ma Stephanie Hilary Xinyi , Tan Michael Koon Boon , Bajpai Ram , Goh Shannon Shuet Ning , Yeo Gabriellia , Teng Alicia , Yang Yilin , Galéry Kévin , Beauchet Olivier
Published: December 2023

Introduction

The practice of participatory art has been found to support the promotion, prevention, and management of health across the lifespan. However, clinical trials investigating the benefits of creative activities curated with and conducted in museums among older adults in East Asia remains limited.

Methods

The current research utilized a single-site, open-label randomized control trial (RCT) to evaluate a standardized Participatory ‘A’rt-Based Activity On ‘Health’ of Older Community-Dwellers – the Singapore A-Health Intervention. Outcome measures include frailty as assessed by the Centre of Excellence on Longevity Self-administered Questionnaire, wellbeing as assessed by the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scales, and quality of life as assessed by the EuroQol-5D. 112 participants aged 60 and above were randomized into the intervention group (n = 56) or an inactive control group (n = 56). Participants completed four standardized online self-administered assessments at baseline, 5-week, 9-week and 12-week follow-up during the intervention period.

Results

Linear mixed model analyses revealed no statistically significant differences between the intervention group and control group for all outcome measures. However, within the intervention group, a consistent significant reduction in frailty was observed across time from baseline to 9 weeks (MD −0.44, 95% CI −0.85 to −0.039, p = 0.032), 5-weeks to 9-weeks (MD −0.64, 95% CI −1.03 to −0.24, p = 0.002), and 5-weeks to 12-weeks (MD −0.51, 95% CI −0.91 to −0.10, p = 0.014). Moreover, the post-test mean wellbeing score in the intervention group significantly improved over time at 9-weeks (MD 1.65, 95% CI 0.09 to 3.22, p = 0.039) and 12-week (MD 2.42, 95% CI 0.67 to 4.16, p = 0.006) as compared to baseline scores.

Discussion

The findings demonstrate the potential of a structured art and museum-based intervention as a resource for promoting health among aging populations. Such benefits transcend social, cultural, and societal contexts.

Clinical trial registration

ClinicalTrial.gov, NCT05945589.
Development and validation of a predictive nomogram for subsequent contralateral hip fracture in elderly patients within 2 years after hip fracture surgery
Authors: Liang Jiahui , Zhang Jian , Lou Zhiyuan , Tang Xin
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Contralateral hip refracture following initial hip fracture surgery is life-threatening in the elderly with high incidence and mortality. This study investigated the associated independent risk factors and established a nomogram prediction model.

Methods

Totally 734 elderly patients with hip fractures who underwent surgical treatment (January 2016–December 2020) were enrolled. Following analyses on demographic variables, clinical characteristics, and laboratory examination, independent risk factors of contralateral hip fractures in the elderly were identified through the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression, and univariate and multivariate logistic regression. Patients were randomly allocated into training (n = 513) and validation sets (n = 221). A training set-based nomogram prediction model was established and assessed for predictability, discriminatory ability, and clinical applicability using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, calibration curves, and decision curve analysis (DCA) in both sets.

Results

Contralateral hip refractures occurred in 7.08% (52/734) patients within 2 years after surgery. Age, hemoglobin (Hb), heart disease, neurovascular disease, Parkinson’s disease (PD), Alzheimer’s disease (AD), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and chronic kidney disease (CKD) were independent risk factors. The nomogram prediction model had a favorable discriminatory ability, as indicated by the areas under the ROC curves (AUC): 0.906 (95% CI, 0.845–0.967) in the training set and 0.956 (95% CI, 0.927–0.985) in the validation set. The calibration curves demonstrated a good consistency between the actual subsequent contralateral hip fracture incidence and the predicted probability. The DCA of the nomogram demonstrated the model’s excellent clinical efficacy.

Conclusion

The nomogram model enabled accurate individualized prediction for the occurrence of subsequent contralateral hip fracture in the elderly within 2 years after surgical treatment, which might help clinicians with precise references for appropriate perioperative management and rehabilitation education following initial hip surgery for their patients.
Efficacy and safety of novel carbapenem-β-lactamase inhibitor combinations: imipenem-cilastatin/relebactam results from randomized controlled trials
Authors: Yang Qingxin , Yang Yanqiu , He Rong , Yu Bin , Zhong Yueling , Lin Fei
Published: December 2023

Background

Gram-negative bacteria is a global public health problem. Treatment options include novel beta-lactamase inhibitors.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to collect information on the efficacy and safety of novel β-lactamase inhibitor combinations such as imipenem-cilastatin/relebactam (IMI/REL).

Methods

In order to comprehensively evaluate the clinical, microbiological, and adverse events outcomes, a meta-analysis was conducted on clinical trials comparing novel β-lactamase inhibitor combinations with existing comparator therapies.

Results

Four studies comprising 948 patients were included in the analysis. IMI/REL therapy demonstrated similar clinical responses to comparators across various treatment visits, including discontinuation of intravenously administered therapy visits [DCIV, RR = 1.00 (0.88, 1.12)], early follow-up visits [EFU, RR = 1.00 (0.89, 1.14)], late follow-up visits [LFU, RR = 1.00 (0.88, 1.13)]. Moreover, no significant difference in the microbiologic response of MITT patients was observed between IMI/REL and comparators across DCIV [RR = 0.99 (0.89, 1.11)], EFU [RR = 1.01 (0.95, 1.07)], and LFU visits [RR = 1.00 (90.94, 1.07)]. In terms of safety, therapy with IMI/REL and comparators exhibited similar risks of at least one adverse event (AE), drug-related AEs, and discontinuation due to AEs. The incidence of serious AEs (SAEs) was significantly lower in the IMI/REL group compared to the comparison groups. The predominant AEs were gastrointestinal disorders, with no significant difference observed between the IMI/REL group and comparators.

Conclusion

The clinical and microbiologic response to IMI/REL in the treatment of bacterial infection was comparable to that of the comparator. Furthermore, the incidence of AEs and the tolerability of IMI/REL were similar among the comparators. Based on these findings, IMI/REL can be considered as a viable alternative treatment option.
Targeted next-generation sequencing for pulmonary infection diagnosis in patients unsuitable for bronchoalveolar lavage
Authors: Deng Zhenfeng , Li Chunhong , Wang Yingjin , Wu Fengwen , Liang Chunfang , Deng Wei , Wang Yuanli
Published: December 2023

Background

Targeted next-generation sequencing (tNGS) has emerged as a rapid diagnostic technology for identifying a wide spectrum of pathogens responsible for pulmonary infections.

Methods

Sputum samples were collected from patients unable or unwilling to undergo bronchoalveolar lavage. These samples underwent tNGS analysis to diagnose pulmonary infections. Retrospective analysis was performed on clinical data, and the clinical efficacy of tNGS was compared to conventional microbiological tests (CMTs).

Results

This study included 209 pediatric and adult patients with confirmed pulmonary infections. tNGS detected 45 potential pathogens, whereas CMTs identified 23 pathogens. The overall microbial detection rate significantly differed between tNGS and CMTs (96.7% vs. 36.8%, p < 0.001). Among the 76 patients with concordant positive results from tNGS and CMTs, 86.8% (66/76) exhibited full or partial agreement. For highly pathogenic and rare/noncolonized microorganisms, tNGS, combined with comprehensive clinical review, directly guided pathogenic diagnosis and antibiotic treatment in 21 patients. This included infections caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex, certain atypical pathogens, Aspergillus, and nontuberculous Mycobacteria. Among the enrolled population, 38.8% (81/209) of patients adjusted their treatment based on tNGS results. Furthermore, tNGS findings unveiled age-specific heterogeneity in pathogen distribution between children and adults.

Conclusion

CMTs often fall short in meeting the diagnostic needs of pulmonary infections. This study highlights how tNGS of sputum samples from patients who cannot or will not undergo bronchoalveolar lavage yield valuable insights into potential pathogens, thereby enhancing the diagnosis of pulmonary infections in specific cases.
Characterization of a thermophilic and glucose-tolerant GH1 β-glucosidase from hot springs and its prospective application in corn stover degradation
Authors: Huang Yu-Ying , Lv Zhi-Hua , Zheng Hong-Zhao , Zhu Qian , Liu Meng-Ting , Sang Peng , Wang Fei , Zhu Dan , Xian Wen-Dong , Yin Yi-Rui
Published: December 2023

Introduction

β-Glucosidase serves as the pivotal rate-limiting enzyme in the cellulose degradation process, facilitating the hydrolysis of cellobiose and cellooligosaccharides into glucose. However, the widespread application of numerous β-glucosidases is hindered by their limited thermostability and low glucose tolerance, particularly in elevated-temperature and high-glucose environments.

Methods

This study presents an analysis of a β-glucosidase gene belonging to the GH1 family, denoted lqbg8, which was isolated from the metagenomic repository of Hehua hot spring located in Tengchong, China. Subsequently, the gene was cloned and heterologously expressed in Escherichia coli BL21(DE3). Post expression, the recombinant β-glucosidase (LQBG8) underwent purification through a Ni affinity chromatography column, thereby enabling the in-depth exploration of its enzymatic properties.

Results

LQBG8 had an optimal temperature of 70°C and an optimum pH of 5.6. LQBG8 retained 100 and 70% of its maximum activity after 2-h incubation periods at 65°C and 70°C, respectively. Moreover, even following exposure to pH ranges of 3.0–10.0 for 24 h, LQBG8 retained approximately 80% of its initial activity. Notably, the enzymatic prowess of LQBG8 remained substantial at glucose concentrations of up to 3 M, with a retention of over 60% relative activity. The kinetic parameters of LQBG8 were characterized using cellobiose as substrate, with Km and Vmax values of 28 ± 1.9 mg/mL and 55 ± 3.2 μmol/min/mg, respectively. Furthermore, the introduction of LQBG8 (at a concentration of 0.03 mg/mL) into a conventional cellulase reaction system led to an impressive 43.7% augmentation in glucose yield from corn stover over a 24-h period. Molecular dynamics simulations offered valuable insights into LQBG8’s thermophilic nature, attributing its robust stability to reduced fluctuations, conformational changes, and heightened structural rigidity in comparison to mesophilic β-glucosidases.

Discussion

In summation, its thermophilic, thermostable, and glucose-tolerant attributes, render LQBG8 ripe for potential applications across diverse domains encompassing food, feed, and the production of lignocellulosic ethanol.
Small RNA signatures of the anterior cruciate ligament from patients with knee joint osteoarthritis
Authors: Kharaz Yalda A. , Zamboulis Danae E. , Fang Yongxiang , Welting Tim J. M. , Peffers Mandy J. , Comerford Eithne J.
Published: December 2023

Introduction: The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is susceptible to degeneration, resulting in joint pain, reduced mobility, and osteoarthritis development. There is currently a paucity of knowledge on how anterior cruciate ligament degeneration and disease leads to osteoarthritis. Small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs), such as microRNAs and small nucleolar RNA (snoRNA), have diverse roles, including regulation of gene expression.

Methods: We profiled the sncRNAs of diseased osteoarthritic ACLs to provide novel insights into osteoarthritis development. Small RNA sequencing from the ACLs of non- or end-stage human osteoarthritic knee joints was performed. Significantly differentially expressed sncRNAs were defined, and bioinformatics analysis was undertaken.

Results and Discussion: A total of 184 sncRNAs were differentially expressed: 68 small nucleolar RNAs, 26 small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs), and 90 microRNAs. We identified both novel and recognized (miR-206, -365, and -29b and -29c) osteoarthritis-related microRNAs and other sncRNAs (including SNORD72, SNORD113, and SNORD114). Significant pathway enrichment of differentially expressed miRNAs includes differentiation of the muscle, inflammation, proliferation of chondrocytes, and fibrosis. Putative mRNAs of the microRNA target genes were associated with the canonical pathways “hepatic fibrosis signaling” and “osteoarthritis.” The establishing sncRNA signatures of ACL disease during osteoarthritis could serve as novel biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets in ACL degeneration and osteoarthritis development.
Imaging systems and techniques for fusion-based metal additive manufacturing: a review
Authors: Balhara Himanshu , Karthikeyan Adithyaa , Hanchate Abhishek , Nakkina Tapan Ganatma , Bukkapatnam Satish T. S.
Published: December 2023

This study presents an overview and a few case studies to explicate the transformative power of diverse imaging techniques for smart manufacturing, focusing largely on various in-situ and ex-situ imaging methods for monitoring fusion-based metal additive manufacturing (AM) processes such as directed energy deposition (DED), selective laser melting (SLM), electron beam melting (EBM). In-situ imaging techniques, encompassing high-speed cameras, thermal cameras, and digital cameras, are becoming increasingly affordable, complementary, and are emerging as vital for real-time monitoring, enabling continuous assessment of build quality. For example, high-speed cameras capture dynamic laser-material interaction, swiftly detecting defects, while thermal cameras identify thermal distribution of the melt pool and potential anomalies. The data gathered from in-situ imaging are then utilized to extract pertinent features that facilitate effective control of process parameters, thereby optimizing the AM processes and minimizing defects. On the other hand, ex-situ imaging techniques play a critical role in comprehensive component analysis. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), optical microscopy, and 3D-profilometry enable detailed characterization of microstructural features, surface roughness, porosity, and dimensional accuracy. Employing a battery of Artificial Intelligence (AI) algorithms, information from diverse imaging and other multi-modal data sources can be fused, and thereby achieve a more comprehensive understanding of a manufacturing process. This integration enables informed decision-making for process optimization and quality assurance, as AI algorithms analyze the combined data to extract relevant insights and patterns. Ultimately, the power of imaging in additive manufacturing lies in its ability to deliver real-time monitoring, precise control, and comprehensive analysis, empowering manufacturers to achieve supreme levels of precision, reliability, and productivity in the production of components.
A multidimensional model of memory complaints in older individuals and the associated hub regions
Authors: Paban Véronique , Mheich A. , Spieser L. , Sacher M.
Published: December 2023

Memory complaints are highly prevalent among middle-aged and older adults, and they are frequently reported in individuals experiencing subjective cognitive decline (SCD). SCD has received increasing attention due to its implications for the early detection of dementia. This study aims to advance our comprehension of individuals with SCD by elucidating potential cognitive/psychologic-contributing factors and characterizing cerebral hubs within the brain network. To identify these potential contributing factors, a structural equation modeling approach was employed to investigate the relationships between various factors, such as metacognitive beliefs, personality, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and resilience, and memory complaints. Our findings revealed that self-esteem and conscientiousness significantly influenced memory complaints. At the cerebral level, analysis of delta and theta electroencephalographic frequency bands recorded during rest was conducted to identify hub regions using a local centrality metric known as betweenness centrality. Notably, our study demonstrated that certain brain regions undergo changes in their hub roles in response to the pathology of SCD. Specifically, the inferior temporal gyrus and the left orbitofrontal area transition into hubs, while the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and the middle temporal gyrus lose their hub function in the presence of SCD. This rewiring of the neural network may be interpreted as a compensatory response employed by the brain in response to SCD, wherein functional connectivity is maintained or restored by reallocating resources to other regions.
The effectiveness of the modified Epley maneuver for the treatment of posterior semicircular canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo
Authors: Chen Xiaosu , Mao Jiesheng , Ye Hua , Fan Luping , Tong Qiaowen , Zhang Hehui , Wu Chengcheng , Yang Xiaokai
Published: December 2023

Objective

To compare the repositioning effect of the modified Epley maneuver and the traditional Epley maneuver for posterior semicircular canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (PC-BPPV).

Methods

Sixty-five patients with unilateral PC-BPPV were randomly divided into two groups. The control group received the traditional Epley maneuver, while the experimental group received the modified Epley maneuver, which prolonged the time in the healthy side lying position and the final bowing position. The number of successful repositions after one, two, and three attempts and the total number of successful repositions were recorded and compared between the two groups. A BPPV virtual simulation model was used to analyze the mechanism of the modified Epley maneuver.

Results

The first repositioning success rate of the experimental group was significantly higher than that of the control group (85% vs. 63%, p = 0.040). The experimental group achieved 100% repositioning success rate after two attempts, while the control group needed three attempts to reach 86% repositioning success rate. Four cases in the control group experienced canal switching during the repositioning process, while none in the experimental group did. The BPPV virtual simulation model showed that the modified Epley maneuver could facilitate the passage of otoliths through the posterior arm of the posterior semicircular canal, especially through the location of obstruction.

Conclusion

The modified Epley maneuver is more effective than the traditional Epley maneuver in improving the single repositioning success rate and reducing the canal switching rate for PC-BPPV. This study provides a new option for the treatment of BPPV.
Recalibrating single-study effect sizes using hierarchical Bayesian models
Authors: Cao Zhipeng , McCabe Matthew , Callas Peter , Cupertino Renata B. , Ottino-González Jonatan , Murphy Alistair , Pancholi Devarshi , Schwab Nathan , Catherine Orr , Hutchison Kent , Cousijn Janna , Dagher Alain , Foxe John J. , Goudriaan Anna E. , Hester Robert , Li Chiang-Shan R. , Thompson Wesley K. , Morales Angelica M. , London Edythe D. , Lorenzetti Valentina , Luijten Maartje , Martin-Santos Rocio , Momenan Reza , Paulus Martin P. , Schmaal Lianne , Sinha Rajita , Solowij Nadia , Stein Dan J. , Stein Elliot A. , Uhlmann Anne , van Holst Ruth J. , Veltman Dick J. , Wiers Reinout W. , Yücel Murat , Zhang Sheng , Conrod Patricia , Mackey Scott , Garavan Hugh ,   The ENIGMA Addiction Working Group
Published: December 2023

Introduction

There are growing concerns about commonly inflated effect sizes in small neuroimaging studies, yet no study has addressed recalibrating effect size estimates for small samples. To tackle this issue, we propose a hierarchical Bayesian model to adjust the magnitude of single-study effect sizes while incorporating a tailored estimation of sampling variance.

Methods

We estimated the effect sizes of case-control differences on brain structural features between individuals who were dependent on alcohol, nicotine, cocaine, methamphetamine, or cannabis and non-dependent participants for 21 individual studies (Total cases: 903; Total controls: 996). Then, the study-specific effect sizes were modeled using a hierarchical Bayesian approach in which the parameters of the study-specific effect size distributions were sampled from a higher-order overarching distribution. The posterior distribution of the overarching and study-specific parameters was approximated using the Gibbs sampling method.

Results

The results showed shrinkage of the posterior distribution of the study-specific estimates toward the overarching estimates given the original effect sizes observed in individual studies. Differences between the original effect sizes (i.e., Cohen's d) and the point estimate of the posterior distribution ranged from 0 to 0.97. The magnitude of adjustment was negatively correlated with the sample size (r = −0.27, p < 0.001) and positively correlated with empirically estimated sampling variance (r = 0.40, p < 0.001), suggesting studies with smaller samples and larger sampling variance tended to have greater adjustments.

Discussion

Our findings demonstrate the utility of the hierarchical Bayesian model in recalibrating single-study effect sizes using information from similar studies. This suggests that Bayesian utilization of existing knowledge can be an effective alternative approach to improve the effect size estimation in individual studies, particularly for those with smaller samples.
Sex hormone mediated change on flexion reflex
Authors: Soedirdjo Subaryani D. H. , Chung Yu-Chen , Dhaher Yasin Y.
Published: December 2023

It has been shown that estrogen and progesterone receptors are expressed in the spinal cord; therefore, fluctuation in their concentrations may affect the spinal network and modulate the control of movement. Herein, we assessed the neuro-modulatory effect of sex hormones on the polysynaptic spinal network by using a flexion reflex network as a model system. Twenty-four healthy eumenorrheic women (age 21–37 years) were tested every other day for one menstrual cycle. Serum estradiol and progesterone were acquired at the time of testing. The flexion reflex of the tibialis anterior was elicited by sending an innocuous electrical stimulus directly to the posterior tibial nerve or plantar cutaneous afferent. Analyses were performed for each menstrual cycle phase: the follicular phase and the luteal phase. Increases in estradiol or progesterone concentrations were not associated with reflex duration or root mean squared (RMS) amplitude in either the follicular or luteal phases. In the luteal phase, an increase in the estradiol concentration was associated with a longer latency of the reflex (b = 0.23, p = 0.038). The estradiol × progesterone interaction was found towards significance (b = −0.017, p = 0.081). These results highlight the potential synergistic effect of estradiol and progesterone and may provide indirect confirmatory evidence of the observed modulatory effect.
Genome-scale copy number variant analysis in schizophrenia patients and controls from South India
Authors: Singh Minali , Pradhan Dibyabhabha , Kkani Poornima , Prasad Rao Gundugurti , Dhagudu Naveen Kumar , Kumar Lov , Ramasubramanian Chellamuthu , Kumar Srinivasan Ganesh , Sonttineni Surekha , Mohan Kommu Naga
Published: December 2023

Copy number variants (CNVs) are among the main genetic factors identified in schizophrenia (SZ) through genome-scale studies conducted mostly in Caucasian populations. However, to date, there have been no genome-scale CNV reports on patients from India. To address this shortcoming, we generated, for the first time, genome-scale CNV data for 168 SZ patients and 168 controls from South India. In total, 63 different CNVs were identified in 56 patients and 46 controls with a significantly higher proportion of medium-sized deletions (100 kb–1 Mb) after multiple testing (FDR = 2.7E-4) in patients. Of these, 13 CNVs were previously reported; however, when searched against GWAS, transcriptome, exome, and DNA methylation studies, another 17 CNVs with candidate genes were identified. Of the total 30 CNVs, 28 were present in 38 patients and 12 in 27 controls, indicating a significantly higher representation in the former (p = 1.87E-5). Only 4q35.1-q35.2 duplications were significant (p = 0.020) and observed in 11 controls and 2 patients. Among the others that are not significant, a few examples of patient-specific and previously reported CNVs include deletions of 11q14.1 (DLG2), 22q11.21, and 14q21.1 (LRFN5). 16p13.3 deletion (RBFOX1), 3p14.2 duplication (CADPS), and 7p11.2 duplication (CCT6A) were some of the novel CNVs containing candidate genes. However, these observations need to be replicated in a larger sample size. In conclusion, this report constitutes an important foundation for future CNV studies in a relatively unexplored population. In addition, the data indicate that there are advantages in using an integrated approach for better identification of candidate CNVs for SZ and other mental health disorders.
Case Report: Colon malignant tumor caused by retroperitoneal small round cell undifferentiated sarcoma
Authors: Wei Yuqin , Zhang Zhiyong , Long Chenyan , Huang Xiaoliang , Tang Weizhong , Mo Xianwei , Liu Jungang
Published: December 2023

Small round cell undifferentiated sarcoma is a rare and highly invasive group of malignant bone and soft tissue tumors, often associated with a high misdiagnosis rate. The patient in this case was a 34-year-old male who presented with a two-month history of abdominal pain that worsened over the past two weeks. Elevated levels of tumor markers CA19-9 and CA72-4 were observed. Imaging revealed a substantial, well-vascularized mass in the lower left abdomen, located in the posterior abdominal cavity, invading the descending colon and the root of the small mesentery, and infiltrating the serous layer. The lesion was extensively resected without any postoperative complications. Microscopic examination indicated a combination of mucinous adenocarcinoma (approximately 30%) and small round cell undifferentiated sarcoma (approximately 70%). The patient was followed up for six months, and one month after surgery, a recurrence of the tumor was observed in the left paracolonic sulcus area, with metastases to the abdominal wall, peritoneum, and medial iliac muscles. Chemotherapy and targeted therapy were administered, and the patient currently survives with the presence of tumors. Small round cell undifferentiated sarcoma is an uncommon and highly invasive tumor, and clinical surgeons need to raise their awareness and realize to the maximum extent possible that this disease can be described through a multi-modal combination of immunohistochemistry and genetic test to improve diagnostic accuracy and reduce missed diagnoses. Further research in the field of biology is necessary to explore targeted drugs specifically suitable for this disease.
The microRNA target site profile is a novel biomarker in the immunotherapy response
Authors: Bai Yulong , Li Yujia , Qin Yidi , Yang Xinshuo , Tseng George C. , Kim Soyeon , Park Hyun Jung
Published: December 2023

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) bind on the 3′ untranslated region (3′UTR) of messenger RNAs (mRNAs) and regulate mRNA expression in physiological and pathological conditions, including cancer. Thus, studies have identified miRNAs as potential biomarkers by correlating the miRNA expression with the expression of important mRNAs and/or clinical outcomes in cancers. However, tumors undergo pervasive 3′UTR shortening/lengthening events through alternative polyadenylation (APA), which varies the number of miRNA target sites in mRNA, raising the number of miRNA target sites (numTS) as another important regulatory axis of the miRNA binding effects. In this study, we developed the first statistical method, BIOMATA-APA, to identify predictive miRNAs based on numTS features. Running BIOMATA-APA on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and independent cohort data both with immunotherapy and no immunotherapy, we demonstrated for the first time that the numTS feature 1) distinguishes different cancer types, 2) predicts tumor proliferation and immune infiltration status, 3) explains more variation in the proportion of tumor-infiltrating immune cells, 4) predicts response to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy, and 5) adds prognostic power beyond clinical and miRNA expression. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first pan-cancer study to systematically demonstrate numTS as a novel type of biomarker representing the miRNA binding effects underlying tumorigenesis and pave the way to incorporate miRNA target sites for miRNA biomarker identification. Another advantage of examining the miRNA binding effect using numTS is that it requires only RNA-Seq data, not miRNAs, thus resulting in high power in the miRNA biomarker identification.
An overview on viral interference during SARS-CoV-2 pandemic
Authors: Matera Luigi , Manti Sara , Petrarca Laura , Pierangeli Alessandra , Conti Maria Giulia , Mancino Enrica , Leonardi Salvatore , Midulla Fabio , Nenna Raffaella
Published: December 2023

Respiratory viruses represent the most frequent cause of mortality, morbidity and high healthcare costs for emergency visits and hospitalization in the pediatric age. Respiratory viruses can circulate simultaneously and can potentially infect the same host, determining different types of interactions, the so-called viral interference. The role of viral interference has assumed great importance since December 2019, when the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) came on the scene. The aim of this narrative review is to present our perspective regarding research in respiratory virus interference and discuss recent advances on the topic because, following SARS-CoV-2 restrictions mitigation, we are experimenting the co-circulation of respiratory viruses along with SARS-CoV-2. This scenario is raising many concerns about possible virus-virus interactions, both positive and negative, and the clinical, diagnostic and therapeutic management of these coinfections. Moreover, we cannot rule out that also climatic conditions and social behaviours are involved. Thus, this situation can lead to different population epidemic dynamics, including changes in the age of the targeted population, disease course and severity, highlighting the need for prospective epidemiologic studies and mathematical modelling able to predict the timing and magnitude of epidemics caused by SARS-CoV-2/seasonal respiratory virus interactions in order to adjust better public health interventions.