bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcriptome profiling reveals the expression and regulation of genes associated with Fusarium wilt resistance in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)
Authors: Garg Vanika , Chitikineni Annapurna , Sharma Mamta , Ghosh Raju , Samineni Srinivasan , Varshney Rajeev K. , Kudapa Himabindu
Published: May 2023

Fusarium wilt (FW) is one of the most significant biotic stresses limiting chickpea production worldwide. To dissect the molecular mechanism of FW resistance in chickpea, comparative transcriptome analyses of contrasting resistance sources of chickpea genotypes under control and Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris (Foc) inoculated conditions were performed. The high‐throughput transcriptome sequencing generated about 1137 million sequencing reads from 24 samples representing two resistant genotypes, two susceptible genotypes, and two near‐isogenic lines under control and stress conditions at two‐time points (7th‐ and 12th‐day post‐inoculation). The analysis identified 5182 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between different combinations of chickpea genotypes. Functional annotation of these genes indicated their involvement in various biological processes such as defense response, cell wall biogenesis, secondary metabolism, and disease resistance. A significant number (382) of transcription factor encoding genes exhibited differential expression patterns under stress. Further, a considerable number of the identified DEGs (287) co‐localized with previously reported quantitative trait locus for FW resistance. Several resistance/susceptibility‐related genes, such as SERINE/THREONINE PROTEIN KINASE, DIRIGENT, and MLO exhibiting contrasting expression patterns in resistant and susceptible genotypes upon Foc inoculation, were identified. The results presented in the study provide valuable insights into the transcriptional dynamics associated with FW stress response in chickpea and provide candidate genes for the development of disease‐resistant chickpea cultivars.
The comparative study of biocomposites based on hydrochar and chitosan‐modified urea‐formaldehyde resins
Authors: Ristić Mirjana , Samaržija‐Jovanović Suzana , Jovanović Vojislav , Kostić Marija , Jovanović Tijana , Marković Gordana , Kojić Marija , Vujčić Ivica , Marinović‐Cincović Milena
Published: May 2023

To provide new insight into the field of urea‐formaldehyde (UF) adhesives science, in this work, for the first time, UF resin was modified with hydrochar of spent mushroom substrate (HCUF) and chitosan (CHUF) to investigate the effect of these bio‐fillers on the hydrolytic and thermal stability of in situ prepared UF resins. The characterization of the modified UF biocomposites was performed using X‐ray diffraction analysis (XRD), Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), non‐isothermal thermogravimetric analysis (TG), differential thermal gravimetry (DTG), and differential thermal analysis (DTA). Scanning electron micrographs (SEM) of the CHUF and HCUF biocomposites show a spherical structure that differs from each other because the surface of the CHUF biocomposite has pronounced pores that form a network structure. With its hydroxyl and amino groups, chitosan bonding to UF resin through hydrogen bonds, which is confirmed by FTIR analysis. The content of free FA in CHUF biocomposite is 0.06%, while that of HCUF is higher and amounts to 0.48%. The content of released FA in both modified UF biocomposites was similar (2.5% and 2.8% for CHUF and HCUF, respectively). The hydrolytic stability of CHUF is slightly higher compared to the HCUF biocomposite. Thermal analysis shows that the CHUF is thermally more stable because it starts to decompose at a slightly higher temperature than the HCUF biocomposite.
The Plight of Temporary Migrants: The Intersection of Migration Status, Family Violence and Support
Authors: Pfitzner Naomi , Fitz-Gibbon Kate , Walklate Sandra , Meyer Silke , Segrave Marie
Published: May 2023

There is a growing body of research showing that migration status can exacerbate the risk of DFV, and that targeted support is required for migrant and refugee women. Given this knowledge, the impact of COVID-19 lockdowns and stay-at-home orders for women holding temporary visas requires specific and focused attention. This chapter explores the differential impact of migration status on women’s experiences of DFV during the COVID-19 pandemic, drawing on 100 victim-survivor case files during the national lockdown in Australia in March 2020. This chapter illustrates the importance of paying close attention to the experiences and responses to DFV and the broader treatment of temporary migrants in the COVID-19 context.
In the Shadow of COVID-19: The Invisibility of Children’s Experiences of Violence in Homes During the Pandemic
Authors: Pfitzner Naomi , Fitz-Gibbon Kate , Walklate Sandra , Meyer Silke , Segrave Marie
Published: May 2023

The invisibility of children and their wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic became an early issue of global concern. The UN and specialist children’s services raised concerns at the outset of the pandemic that children may be the biggest victims of COVID-19 restrictions, due to their exacerbated vulnerability and invisibility associated with added household stressors and wide-ranging closures of education and childcare settings. Despite this, globally the policy discourse around violence in the home and the role of pandemic-related restrictions in increased risk and decreased detection remained overwhelmingly adult-focused. This chapter explores children’s experiences and their invisibility throughout the first two years of the pandemic. Emerging evidence highlights the critical need to ensure attention is paid to children’s experiences of violence in the home during the pandemic, and to their related recovery needs going forward.
Conclusion
Authors: Pfitzner Naomi , Fitz-Gibbon Kate , Walklate Sandra , Meyer Silke , Segrave Marie
Published: May 2023

This conclusion examines what lessons, if any, can be drawn from adaptations to service delivery and responses during COVID-19 for future policy responses to global and local challenges faced in times of crisis. This chapter draws the book together—paying particular attention to the ways in which the first two years of the COVID-19 pandemic further marginalised certain groups, including women and children who experience domestic and family violence. During this time, the conditions of the global health crisis compounded the already existing impacts of structural inequality. This chapter serves as a ‘call to action’ for governments worldwide to prioritise women and children’s safety and freedom from violence, as governments continue to respond to COVID-19 and other crises. It makes the case that for recovery from a crisis to work, the gendered structural inequalities documented in this book must be front and centre in any policy priorities going forward.
Digital Technology-Driven Business Process Redesign: A Classification Framework
Authors: Kubrak Kateryna , Milani Fredrik , Nava Juuli
Published: May 2023

Organizations constantly seek ways to improve their business processes. This often involves using digital technologies to enable process improvements. However, simply substituting existing technology with newer technology has limited value as compared to using the capabilities of digital technologies to introduce changes to business processes. Therefore, process analysts need to understand how the capabilities of digital technologies can be used to redesign business processes. In this paper, we conducted a systematic literature review and examined 40 case studies where digital technologies were used to redesign business processes. We identified that, within the context of business process improvement, capabilities of digitalization, communication, analytics, digital representation, and connectivity can enable business process redesign. Furthermore, we note that these capabilities enable applying nine redesign heuristics. Based on our review, we map how each capability can facilitate the implementation of specific redesign heuristics to improve a business process. Thus, our mapping can aid analysts in identifying candidate redesigns that capitalize on the capabilities of digital technologies.
Persuasive Visual Presentation of Prescriptive Business Processes
Authors: Leemets Janna-Liina , Kubrak Kateryna , Milani Fredrik , Nolte Alexander
Published: May 2023

Prescriptive process monitoring methods recommend interventions during the execution of a case that, if followed, can improve performance. Research on prescriptive process monitoring so far has focused mainly on improving the underlying algorithms and providing suitable explanations for recommendations. Empirical works indicate, though, that process workers often do not follow recommendations even if they understand them. Drawing inspiration from the field of persuasive technology, we developed and evaluated a visualization that nudges process workers towards accepting a recommendation, following a design science approach. Our evaluation points towards the feasibility of the visualization and provides insights into how users perceive different persuasive elements, thus providing a basis for the design of future systems.
Normalized Solutions to the Fractional Schrödinger Equation with Potential
Authors: Zuo Jiabin , Liu Chungen , Vetro Calogero
Published: May 2023

This paper is concerned with the existence of normalized solutions to a class of Schrödinger equations driven by a fractional operator with a parametric potential term. We obtain minimization of energy functional associated with that equations assuming basic conditions for the potential. Our work offers a partial extension of previous results to the non-local case.
Neutrophil sub-types in maintaining immune homeostasis during steady state, infections and sterile inflammation
Authors: Ganesh Kailash , Joshi Manjunath B.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Neutrophils are component of innate immune system and a) eliminate pathogens b) maintain immune homeostasis by regulating other immune cells and c) contribute to the resolution of inflammation. Neutrophil mediated inflammation has been described in pathogenesis of various diseases. This indicates neutrophils do not represent homogeneous population but perform multiple functions through confined subsets. Hence, in the present review we summarize various studies describing the heterogeneous nature of neutrophils and associated functions during steady state and pathological conditions.

Methodology

We performed extensive literature review with key words ‘Neutrophil subpopulations’ ‘Neutrophil subsets’, Neutrophil and infections’, ‘Neutrophil and metabolic disorders’, ‘Neutrophil heterogeneity’ in PUBMED.

Results

Neutrophil subtypes are characterized based on buoyancy, cell surface markers, localization and maturity. Recent advances in high throughput technologies indicate the existence of functionally diverse subsets of neutrophils in bone marrow, blood and tissues in both steady state and pathological conditions. Further, we found proportions of these subsets significantly vary in pathological conditions. Interestingly, stimulus specific activation of signalling pathways in neutrophils have been demonstrated.

Conclusion

Neutrophil sub-populations differ among diseases and hence, mechanisms regulating formation, sustenance, proportions and functions of these sub-types vary between physiological and pathological conditions. Hence, mechanistic insights of neutrophil subsets in disease specific manner may facilitate development of neutrophil-targeted therapies.
A review of excluded groups and non-response in population-based mental health surveys from high-income countries
Authors: Wright Eryn , Pagliaro Claudia , Page Imogen S. , Diminic Sandra
Published: May 2023

National mental health surveys play a critical role in determining the prevalence of mental disorders in a population and informing service planning. However, current surveys have important limitations, including the exclusion of key vulnerable groups and increasing rates of non-response. This review aims to synthesise information on excluded and undersampled groups in national mental health surveys. We conducted a targeted review of nationally representative adult mental health surveys performed between 2005 and 2019 in high-income OECD countries. Sixteen surveys met our inclusion criteria. The response rate for included surveys ranged between 36.3% and 80.0%. The most frequently excluded groups included people who were homeless, people in hospitals or health facilities and people in correctional facilities. Males and young people were the most commonly underrepresented groups among respondents. Attempts to collect data from non-responders and excluded populations were limited, but suggest that mental health status differs among some of these cohorts. The exclusion of key vulnerable groups and high rates of non-response have important implications for interpreting and using the results of national mental health surveys. Targeted supplementary surveys of excluded or hard-to-reach populations, more inclusive sampling methodologies, and strategies aimed at improving response rates should be considered to strengthen the accuracy and usefulness of survey findings.
Anomaly detection and virtual reality visualisation in supercomputers
Authors: Mulero-Pérez David , Benavent-Lledó Manuel , Azorín-López Jorge , Marcos-Jorquera Diego , García-Rodríguez José
Published: May 2023

Anomaly detection is the identification of events or observations that deviate from the expected behaviour of a given set of data. Its main application is the prediction of possible technical failures. In particular, anomaly detection on supercomputers is a difficult problem to solve due to the large scale of the systems and the large number of components. Most research works in this field employ machine learning methods and regression models in a supervised fashion, which implies the need for a large amount of labelled data to train such systems. This work proposes the use of autoencoder models, allowing the problem to be approached with semi-supervised learning techniques. Two different model training approaches are compared. The former is a model trained with data from all the nodes of a supercomputer. In the latter approach, observing significant differences between nodes, one model is trained for each node. The results are analysed by evaluating the positive and negative aspects of each approach. On the other hand, a replica of the Marconi 100 supercomputer is developed in a virtual reality environment that allows the data from each node to be visualised at the same time.
Laser beam remelting of stainless steel plate for cladding and comparison with conventional CMT process
Authors: Bunaziv Ivan , Ren Xiaobo , Hagen Anette Brocks , Hovig Even Wilberg , Jevremovic Ivana , Gulbrandsen-Dahl Sverre
Published: May 2023

Progressing towards circular economy requires smarter and more efficient use of energy and resources. Laser beam can be efficient and flexible tool for melting different metals, commonly used in cladding and additive manufacturing (AM) with a wire and powder feedstock. As an alternative, feedstock in the form of plates and sheets can be used for cladding to achieve corrosion resistant surfaces. Compared to powder or wire, plates are easier to process, less costly to use, and may come as scrap metal. This leads to smarter and more efficient resource utilization. However, processing plates in such way is not mature and requires more in-depth investigation to be competitive with well-established methods. In this work, 2.0 mm thick 316L stainless steel plates were remelted by a high-power fibre laser beam for cladding on carbon steel substrates. It was compared to the conventional cold metal transfer (CMT) welding-based arc cladding which is frequently used due to a low heat input. In the first phase, different defocusing distances were studied to understand the laser remelting process capabilities to optimize the productivity. It was found that a highly defocused laser beam provided unstable melt pool conditions with low track quality. Compared to CMT, the laser remelting provided enhanced productivity, reduced heat input by 50% per pass, and lower distortions. Microhardness testing showed an increase in hardness in the intermediate layer towards the fusion line due to carbon diffusion. Despite a higher delta ferrite formation in laser-remelted tracks, a comparable corrosion protection to CMT was observed. The proposed method is promising for reducing CO2 emissions with respect to reusing scrap metal in the form of plates or use of ordinary plates instead of filler wires which opens possibilities for further enhancements.
Colorectal Surgery in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ng Zi Qin , Tan Patrick , Theophilus Mary
Published: May 2023

Background

Colorectal surgery in patients with liver cirrhosis poses a significant challenge due to the associated peri‐operative morbidity and mortality risks. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the outcomes in this cohort of patients following colorectal surgery.

Methods

The PubMed, Embase and Cochrane databases and references were searched up to October 2022 using the PRISMA guidelines. The data collated included: patient demographics, pathology or type of colorectal operation performed, severity of liver cirrhosis, post‐operative complication rates, mortality rates and prognostic factors. A quality assessment of included studies was performed with the Newcastle–Ottawa scale.

Results

Sixteen studies reporting the outcomes of colorectal surgery in patients with liver cirrhosis were identified, including the results of 8646 patients. The indications, pathologies and/or type of operations varied. The overall complication rate ranged from 29 to 75%, minor complication ranged 14.5–37% and major complication ranged 6.7–59.3%. The mortality rates ranged from 0 to 37%.

Conclusion

Colorectal surgery in patients with liver cirrhosis still carries considerable morbidity and mortality rates. This group of patients needs to be managed in a multidisciplinary setting to achieve excellent outcomes. Future research should focus on uniform definitions to enable interpretable outcomes.
The surgical anatomy of the axillary approach for nerve transfer procedures targeting the axillary nerve
Authors: Beytell Levo , Mennen Erich , van Schoor Albert-Neels , Keough Natalie
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The exact relational anatomy for the anterior axillary approach, targeting the axillary nerve for nerve transfers/grafts, has not been fully investigated. Therefore, this study aimed to dissect and document the gross anatomy surrounding this approach, specifically regarding the axillary nerve and its branches.

Methods

Fifty-one formalin-fixed cadavers (98 axilla) were bilaterally dissected simulating the axillary approach. Measurements were taken to quantify distances between identifiable anatomical landmarks and relevant neurovascular structures encountered during this approach. The musculo-arterial triangle, described by Bertelli et al., to aid in identification on localization of the axillary nerve, was also assessed.

Results

From the origin of the axillary nerve till (1) latissimus dorsi was 62.3 ± 10.7 mm and till (2) its division into anterior and posterior branches was 38.8 ± 9.6 mm. The origin of the teres minor branch along the posterior division of the axillary nerve was recorded as 6.4 ± 2.9 mm in females and 7.4 ± 2.8 mm in males. The musculo-arterial triangle reliably identified the axillary nerve in only 60.2% of the sample.

Conclusion

The results clearly demonstrate that the axillary nerve and its divisions can be easily identified with this approach. The proximal axillary nerve, however, was situated deep and therefore challenging to expose. The musculo-arterial triangle was relatively successful in localising the axillary nerve, however, more consistent landmarks such as the latissimus dorsi, subscapularis, and quadrangular space have been suggested. The axillary approach may serve as a reliable and safe method to reach the axillary nerve and its divisions, allowing for adequate exposure when considering a nerve transfer or graft.
Estimating prognostic relevant cutoff values for a multiplex PCR detecting BCR::ABL1 in chronic myeloid leukemia patients on tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy in resource-limited settings
Authors: Hailu Saifu , Kinde Samuel , Cross Michael , Tsegaye Aster , Kelemu Tsehayneh , Seifu Daniel , Alemayehu Dawit , Tarekegn Azeb , Jabessa Gutema , Abeje Desalegn , Abebe Markos , Sherif Abdulaziz , Tadesse Fisihatsion , Platzbecker Uwe , Howe Rawleigh , Gebremedhin Amha
Published: May 2023

The prognosis of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) on tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) treatment is based on the quantification of BCR::ABL1 fusion gene transcript copy number, harmonized by an international scale (IS) based on TaqMan-based real-time quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR). In Ethiopia, as in most low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), access to standard diagnostic, follow-up, and prognostic tools is very limited, and it has been challenging to strictly follow international guidelines. This seriously compromises clinical outcome, despite the availability of TKIs through the Glivec International Patient Assistance Program (GIPAP). Multiplex PCR (mpx-PCR), conventionally regarded as a “screening tool,” offers a potential solution to this problem. A total of 219 samples from confirmed CML patients were assayed. In reference to qRT-PCR, the AUC of ROC curve for mpx-PCR was 0.983 (95% CI: 0.957 to 0.997). At the optimum cut-off value, equivalent to BCR::ABL1 (IS) transcript copy number of 0.6%, the specificity and sensitivity were 93% and 95%, respectively, with 94% accuracy. Albeit the sensitivity and accuracy of mpx-PCR decrease below the optimum cutoff of 0.6% (IS), the specificity at 0.1% (IS) was 100%, making it an attractive means to rule-out relapse and drug non-adherence at later stages of treatment, which is particularly an issue in a low income setting. We conclude that the relative simplicity and low cost of mpx-PCR and prognostic relevant cutoff values (0.1–0.6% IS) should allow its use in peripheral clinics and thus maximize the positive impact of TKIs made available through GIPAP in most LMICs.
High-resolution contrast-enhanced MRI with three-dimensional fast spin echo improved the diagnostic performance for identifying pituitary microadenomas in Cushing’s syndrome
Authors: Liu Zeyu , Hou Bo , You Hui , Lu Lin , Duan Lian , Li Mingli , Deng Kan , Yao Yong , Zhu Huijuan , Feng Feng
Published: May 2023

Objectives

To assess the diagnostic performance of high-resolution contrast-enhanced MRI (hrMRI) with three-dimensional (3D) fast spin echo (FSE) sequence by comparison with conventional contrast-enhanced MRI (cMRI) and dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (dMRI) with 2D FSE sequence for identifying pituitary microadenomas.

Methods

This single-institutional retrospective study included 69 consecutive patients with Cushing’s syndrome who underwent preoperative pituitary MRI, including cMRI, dMRI, and hrMRI, between January 2016 to December 2020. Reference standards were established by using all available imaging, clinical, surgical, and pathological resources. The diagnostic performance of cMRI, dMRI, and hrMRI for identifying pituitary microadenomas was independently evaluated by two experienced neuroradiologists. The area under the receiver operating characteristics curves (AUCs) were compared between protocols for each reader by using the DeLong test to assess the diagnostic performance for identifying pituitary microadenomas. The inter-observer agreement was assessed by using the κ analysis.

Results

The diagnostic performance of hrMRI (AUC, 0.95–0.97) was higher than cMRI (AUC, 0.74–0.75; p ≤ .002) and dMRI (AUC, 0.59–0.68; p ≤ .001) for identifying pituitary microadenomas. The sensitivity and specificity of hrMRI were 90–93% and 100%, respectively. There were 78% (18/23) to 82% (14/17) of the patients, who were misdiagnosed on cMRI and dMRI and correctly diagnosed on hrMRI. The inter-observer agreement for identifying pituitary microadenomas was moderate on cMRI (κ = 0.50), moderate on dMRI (κ = 0.57), and almost perfect on hrMRI (κ = 0.91), respectively.

Conclusions

The hrMRI showed higher diagnostic performance than cMRI and dMRI for identifying pituitary microadenomas in patients with Cushing’s syndrome.

Key Points

• The diagnostic performance of hrMRI was higher than cMRI and dMRI for identifying pituitary microadenomas in Cushing’s syndrome.

• About 80% of patients, who were misdiagnosed on cMRI and dMRI, were correctly diagnosed on hrMRI.

• The inter-observer agreement for identifying pituitary microadenomas was almost perfect on hrMRI.
Empfehlungen der Kommission Komplementäre Heilverfahren und Ernährung zu ayurvedischer Medizin, Homöopathie, Ernährung und mediterraner Kost
Authors: Keyßer Gernot , Michalsen Andreas , Reuß-Borst Monika , Frohne Inna , Gläß Mandy , Pfeil Alexander , Schultz Olaf , Seifert Olga , Sander Oliver
Published: May 2023

Methoden der komplementären und alternativen Medizin („complementary and alternative medicine“ [CAM]) stoßen bei vielen Patienten mit rheumatischen Erkrankungen auf Interesse. Die wissenschaftliche Datenlage ist durch eine große Anzahl von Publikationen bei einem eklatanten Mangel an verwertbaren klinischen Studien gekennzeichnet. Anwendungen der CAM stehen im Spannungsfeld zwischen dem Bemühen um eine evidenzbasierte Medizin und um qualitativ hochwertige Therapiekonzepte auf der einen und wenig fundierten bis eindeutig unseriösen Angeboten auf der anderen Seite. Die Deutsche Gesellschaft für Rheumatologie (DGRh) hat 2021 eine Kommission Komplementäre Heilverfahren und Ernährung ins Leben gerufen, welche die aktuelle Evidenz für CAM-Anwendungen und ernährungsmedizinische Maßnahmen in der Rheumatologie sichten und in praktisch anwendbare Empfehlungen einarbeiten soll. Für die vorliegende Publikation wurden für 4 Bereiche Empfehlungen für den rheumatologischen Praxisalltag erstellt: Ernährung, mediterrane Kost, ayurvedische Medizin und Homöopathie.
SMYD1a protects the heart from ischemic injury by regulating OPA1-mediated cristae remodeling and supercomplex formation
Authors: Szulik Marta W. , Valdez Steven , Walsh Maureen , Davis Kathryn , Bia Ryan , Horiuchi Emilee , O’Very Sean , Laxman Anil K. , Sandaklie-Nicolova Linda , Eberhardt David R. , Durrant Jessica R. , Sheikh Hanin , Hickenlooper Samuel , Creed Magnus , Brady Cameron , Miller Mickey , Wang Li , Garcia-Llana June , Tracy Christopher , Drakos Stavros G. , Funai Katsuhiko , Chaudhuri Dipayan , Boudina Sihem , Franklin Sarah
Published: May 2023

SMYD1, a striated muscle-specific lysine methyltransferase, was originally shown to play a key role in embryonic cardiac development but more recently we demonstrated that loss of Smyd1 in the murine adult heart leads to cardiac hypertrophy and failure. However, the effects of SMYD1 overexpression in the heart and its molecular function in the cardiomyocyte in response to ischemic stress are unknown. In this study, we show that inducible, cardiomyocyte-specific overexpression of SMYD1a in mice protects the heart from ischemic injury as seen by a > 50% reduction in infarct size and decreased myocyte cell death. We also demonstrate that attenuated pathological remodeling is a result of enhanced mitochondrial respiration efficiency, which is driven by increased mitochondrial cristae formation and stabilization of respiratory chain supercomplexes within the cristae. These morphological changes occur concomitant with increased OPA1 expression, a known driver of cristae morphology and supercomplex formation. Together, these analyses identify OPA1 as a novel downstream target of SMYD1a whereby cardiomyocytes upregulate energy efficiency to dynamically adapt to the energy demands of the cell. In addition, these findings highlight a new epigenetic mechanism by which SMYD1a regulates mitochondrial energetics and functions to protect the heart from ischemic injury.
SNP analysis of challenging bone DNA samples using the HID-Ion AmpliSeq™ Identity Panel: facts and artefacts
Authors: Fattorini Paolo , Previderè Carlo , Livieri Tommaso , Zupanc Tomaž , Pajnič Irena Zupanič
Published: May 2023

PCR-MPS is an emerging tool for the analysis of low-quality DNA samples. In this study, we used PCR-MPS to analyse 32 challenging bone DNA samples from three Second World War victims, which previously yielded no results in conventional STR PCR-CE typing. The Identity Panel was used with 27 cycles of PCR. Despite that we only had an average of 6.8 pg of degraded DNA as template, 30 out of 32 libraries (93.8%) produced sequencing data for about 63/90 autosomal markers per sample. Out of the 30 libraries, 14 (46.7%) yielded single source genetic profiles in agreement with the biological identity of the donor, whereas 12 cases (40.0%) resulted in SNP profiles that did not match or were mixed. The misleading outcomes for those 12 cases were likely due to hidden exogenous human contamination, as shown by the higher frequencies of allelic imbalance, unusual high frequencies of allelic drop-ins, high heterozygosity levels in the consensus profiles generated from challenging samples, and traces of amplified molecular products in four out of eight extraction negative controls. Even if the source and the time of the contamination were not identified, it is likely that it occurred along the multi-step bone processing workflow. Our results suggest that only positive identification by statistical tools (e.g. likelihood ratio) should be accepted as reliable; oppositely, the results leading to exclusion should be treated as inconclusive because of potential contamination issues. Finally, strategies are discussed for monitoring the workflow of extremely challenging bone samples in PCR-MPS experiments with an increased number of PCR cycles.
Intravenous thrombolysis and mechanical recanalization for acute ischemic stroke in deep brain stimulation patients: a case series
Authors: Meyne Johannes , Domschikowski Mirjam , Hensler Johannes , Helmers Ann-Kristin , Berg Daniela , Deuschl Günther , Paschen Steffen
Published: May 2023

Background

Intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) and endovascular mechanical thrombectomy therapy (MT) are well established in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke. It is currently unclear whether these treatments can be applied in patients with previous deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery and how long the interval to the DBS operation should be.

Methods

Four patients with ischemic stroke and IVT or MT were included in this retrospective case series. Data on demographics, genesis, severity and course of the stroke and the DBS indication were extracted and evaluated. Furthermore, a literature review was conducted. Outcomes and hemorrhagic complications after IVT, MT or intra-arterial thrombolysis in patients with prior deep brain stimulation surgery and intracranial surgery were analyzed.

Results

Four patients with acute ischaemic stroke and previous DBS surgery were treated with IVT (2 patients), MT (1) or a combined therapy of IVT and MT (1). The time interval to the previous DBS surgery was between 6 and 135 months. In these four patients, no bleeding complications occurred. The literature review revealed four publications with a total of 18 patients, who were treated with IVT, MT or intra-arterial thrombolysis. Of these 18 patients, only 1 had undergone deep brain stimulation surgery, the other 17 patients had received brain surgery for other reasons. Bleeding complications occurred in four of the 18 reported patients, but not in the DBS case. All four patients with bleeding complications were reported to have died as a result. In three of the four patients with fatal outcome, surgery was less than 90 days before the onset of stroke.

Conclusion

IVT and MT were tolerated by four patients with ischemic stroke more than 6 months after DBS surgery without bleeding complications.
The acute and repeated bout effects of multi-joint eccentric exercise on physical function and balance in older adults
Authors: Baxter Brett A. , Baross Anthony W. , Ryan Declan J. , Wright Ben H. , Kay Anthony D.
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Eccentric muscle actions generate high levels of force at a low metabolic cost, making them a suitable training modality to combat age-related neuromuscular decline. The temporary muscle soreness associated with high intensity eccentric contractions may explain their limited use in clinical exercise prescription, however any discomfort is often alleviated after the initial bout (repeated bout effect). Therefore, the aims of the present study were to examine the acute and repeated bout effects of eccentric contractions on neuromuscular factors associated with the risk of falling in older adults.

Methods

Balance, functional ability [timed up-and-go and sit-to-stand], and lower-limb maximal and explosive strength were measured in 13 participants (67.6 ± 4.9 year) pre- and post-eccentric exercise (0, 24, 48, and 72 hr) in Bout 1 and 14 days later in Bout 2. The eccentric exercise intervention was performed on an isokinetic unilateral stepper ergometer at 50% of maximal eccentric strength at 18 step‧min−1 per limb for 7 min (126 steps per limb). Two-way repeated measures ANOVAs were conducted to identify any significant effects (P ≤ 0.05).

Results

Eccentric strength significantly decreased (− 13%) in Bout 1 at 24 hr post-exercise; no significant reduction was observed at any other time-point after Bout 1. No significant reductions occurred in static balance or functional ability at any time-point in either bout.

Conclusion

Submaximal multi-joint eccentric exercise results in minimal disruption to neuromuscular function associated with falls in older adults after the initial bout.
Effects of prior therapies on outcomes with trifluridine/tipiracil in patients with metastatic gastric/gastroesophageal junction cancer in a randomized phase III trial (TAGS)
Authors: Shitara Kohei , George Ben , Taieb Julien , Sundar Raghav , Fakih Marwan G. , Makris Lukas , Benhadji Karim A. , Ghidini Michele
Published: May 2023

Background

In the phase III TAGS trial, trifluridine/tipiracil showed survival benefit versus placebo in patients with metastatic gastric/gastroesophageal junction cancer and ≥ 2 prior chemotherapies. This post hoc exploratory analysis assessed the impact of prior therapy type on outcomes.

Methods

Based on prior treatment, patients in TAGS (N = 507) were categorized into overlapping subgroups: ramucirumab ± other agents (n = 169), no ramucirumab (n = 338), paclitaxel but no ramucirumab (n = 136), ramucirumab + paclitaxel sequentially or in combination (n = 154), neither paclitaxel nor ramucirumab (n = 202), irinotecan (n = 281), and no irinotecan (n = 226). Overall and progression-free survival, time to Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG PS) ≥ 2, and safety were assessed.

Results

Baseline characteristics and prior therapy patterns were generally well balanced between trifluridine/tipiracil and placebo arms across subgroups. Trifluridine/tipiracil was associated with survival benefits versus placebo regardless of prior treatment: across subgroups, median overall survival was 4.6–6.1 versus 3.0–3.8 months (hazard ratios, 0.47–0.88), median progression-free survival was 1.9–2.3 versus 1.7–1.8 months (hazard ratios, 0.49–0.67), and median time to ECOG PS ≥ 2 was 4.0–4.7 versus 1.9–2.5 months (hazard ratios, 0.56–0.88). Among trifluridine/tipiracil-randomized patients, median overall and progression-free survival trended longer in those who had not received ramucirumab, paclitaxel and ramucirumab, or irinotecan (6.0–6.1 and 2.1–2.3 months, respectively) than in those who previously received these agents (4.6–5.7 and 1.9 months). The trifluridine/tipiracil safety profile was consistent across subgroups, with similar overall incidences of grade ≥ 3 adverse events. Minor variations in hematologic toxicities were noted.

Conclusions

In TAGS, third- or later-line trifluridine/tipiracil treatment demonstrated overall and progression-free survival and functioning benefits versus placebo and a consistent safety profile in patients with metastatic gastric/gastroesophageal junction cancer, regardless of prior treatment type.

Clinical trials registration

clinicaltrials.gov NCT02500043.
Experiences in reverse sequence esophagectomy: a promising alternative for esophageal cancer surgery
Authors: Lin Chih-Hung , Chuang Cheng-Yen , Ko Jiunn-Liang , Hsu Chung-Ping
Published: May 2023

Objectives

McKeown esophagectomy is a standard and significant component of multimodality therapy in esophageal cancer, however, experience in switching the resection and reconstruction sequence in esophageal cancer surgery is not available. Here, we have retrospectively reviewed the experience of reverse sequencing procedure at our institute.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 192 patients who had undergone minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) with McKeown esophagectomy between August 2008 and Dec 2015. The patient’s demographics and relevant variables were evaluated. The overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were analyzed.

Results

Among the 192 patients, 119 (61.98%) received the reverse sequence MIE (the reverse group) and 73 patients (38.02%) received the standard operation (the standard group). Both patient groups had similar demographics. There were no inter-group differences existed in blood loss, hospital stay, conversion rate, resection margin status, operative complication, and mortality. The reverse group had shorter total operation time (469.83 ± 75.03 vs 523.63 ± 71.93, p < 0.001) and thoracic operation time (181.22 ± 42.79 vs 230.41 ± 51.93, p < 0.001). The 5-year OS and DFS for both groups were similar (44.77% and 40.53% in the reverse group vs 32.66% and 29.42% in the standard group, p = 0.252 and 0.261, respectively). Similar results were observed even after propensity matching.

Conclusions

The reverse sequence procedure had shorter operation times, especially in the thoracic phase. The reverse sequence MIE is a safe and useful procedure when postoperative morbidity, mortality, and oncological outcomes are considered.
Side-to-side magnet anastomosis system duodeno-ileostomy with sleeve gastrectomy: early multi-center results
Authors: Gagner Michel , Cadiere Guy-Bernard , Sanchez-Pernaute Andres , Abuladze David , Krinke Todd , Buchwald J. N. , Van Sante Nathalie , Van Gossum Marc , Dziakova Jana , Koiava Levan , Odovic Maja , Poras Mathilde , Almutlaq Lamees , Torres Antonio J.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Gastrointestinal anastomoses with classical sutures and/or metal staples have resulted in significant bleeding and leak rates. This multi-site study evaluated the feasibility, safety, and preliminary effectiveness of a novel linear magnetic compression anastomosis device, the Magnet System (MS), to form a side-to-side duodeno-ileostomy (DI) diversion for weight loss and type 2 diabetes (T2D) resolution.

Methods

In patients with class II and III obesity (body mass index [BMI, kg/m2] ≥ 35.0– ≤ 50.0 with/without T2D [HbA1C > 6.5%]), two linear MS magnets were delivered endoscopically to the duodenum and ileum with laparoscopic assistance and aligned, initiating DI; sleeve gastrectomy (SG) was added. There were no bowel incisions or retained sutures/staples. Fused magnets were expelled naturally. Adverse events (AEs) were graded by Clavien-Dindo Classification (CDC).

Results

Between November 22, 2021 and July 18, 2022, 24 patients (83.3% female, mean ± SEM weight 121.9 ± 3.3 kg, BMI 44.4 ± 0.8) in three centers underwent magnetic DI. Magnets were expelled at a median 48.5 days. Respective mean BMI, total weight loss, and excess weight loss at 6 months (n = 24): 32.0 ± 0.8, 28.1 ± 1.0%, and 66.2 ± 3.4%; at 12 months (n = 5), 29.3 ± 1.5, 34.0 ± 1.4%, and 80.2 ± 6.6%. Group mean respective mean HbA1C and glucose levels dropped to 1.1 ± 0.4% and 24.8 ± 6.6 mg/dL (6 months); 2.0 ± 1.1% and 53.8 ± 6.3 mg/dL (12 months). There were 0 device-related AEs, 3 procedure-related serious AEs. No anastomotic bleeding, leakage, stricture, or mortality.

Conclusion

In a multi-center study, side-to-side Magnet System duodeno-ileostomy with SG in adults with class III obesity appeared feasible, safe, and effective for weight loss and T2D resolution in the short term.
Soziale Vulnerabilität am Beispiel der Krebstherapie
Authors: Mainka Christine , Letsch Anne , Schmalz Claudia , Bozzaro Claudia
Published: May 2023

Lebensweltliche Bedingungen können sich als Barrieren in Hinblick auf die Durchführung einer von den Patient*innen gewählten – beispielsweise onkologischen – Therapie erweisen und den Therapieerfolg gefährden. Solche lebensweltlichen Herausforderungen lassen sich als Schichten sozialer Vulnerabilität begreifen. In dieser Arbeit wird untersucht, ob es geboten ist, herausfordernde soziale Lebensbedingungen von Patient*innen systematisch bei Therapieentscheidungen zu berücksichtigen. Hierfür wird der Befähigungsansatz nach Martha Nussbaum herangezogen, der die Achtung der Patient*innenautonomie mit der Möglichkeit der Unterstützung durch Dritte zusammenbringt. Anschließend werden anhand des Schichten-Konzeptes von Florencia Luna Vorschläge dafür formuliert, wie soziale Vulnerabilitäten in der Praxis erfasst werden könnten. Obwohl die Überlegungen zum vorliegenden Text aus Beobachtungen der onkologischen Behandlungssituation heraus entstanden sind, lassen sie sich auch auf andere Therapiefelder, die lange Behandlungsdauern mit regelmäßigen Anwesenheiten verlangen, übertragen.

Die vorliegende Untersuchung kommt zu dem Ergebnis, dass die ethische Pflicht besteht, lebensweltliche Faktoren in gemeinsame Therapieentscheidungen miteinzubeziehen und den Patient*innen ggf. Unterstützung anzubieten, um den Zugang zu der von ihnen gewählten Therapie zu ermöglichen.
Structural characteristics of typhoons Jebi (2018), Faxai (2019), and Hagibis (2019)
Authors: Nayak Sridhara , Takemi Tetsuya
Published: May 2023

In recent years, Japan has experienced substantial damage from three intense typhoons: Jebi (2018), Faxai (2019), and Hagibis (2019). In this study, we provide a detailed description of the structure and synoptic environments of these typhoons, with particular focus on their frontal nature, temporal evolutions of the phase-space parameters, and the synoptic environments during their lifecycles. All three typhoons underwent phase changes at some point during their lifecycle before transitioning into extratropical cyclones. We found that their maximum intensities, as indicated by their maximum wind speed and minimum central pressure, occurred shortly after they transitioned from a cold-core to a warm-core structure. These typhoons displayed strong low-level convergence and upper-level divergence, along with favorable environmental conditions for strong convection before transitioning to extratropical cyclones. Our analysis suggests that the strong Typhoons Jebi and Hagibis had asymmetric structures with either deep warm or deep cold cores, whereas the relatively weak Typhoon Faxai had a symmetric deep warm core structure. Overall, our study provides valuable insights into the characteristics of intense typhoons and their transition to extratropical cyclones.
Komorbiditäten bei Alzheimer-Demenz
Authors: Untersteiner Helena , Stögmann Elisabeth
Published: May 2023

Die Alzheimer-Demenz ist die häufigste Demenzform und zählt zu den neurodegenerativen Erkrankungen. Im Verlauf kommt es bei Betroffenen zu einer zunehmenden kognitiven Verschlechterung mit damit einhergehender Einschränkung von Alltagskompetenz und Veränderung der Persönlichkeit. Typische Symptome zu Beginn sind unter anderem Gedächtnisprobleme, Orientierungslosigkeit, Schwierigkeiten bei der Sprachverarbeitung und Verhaltensänderungen.

Aus verschiedenen Gründen treten bei Alzheimer-Patienten bestimmte Komorbiditäten gehäuft auf. Dazu gehören beispielsweise Depression, Angststörungen, kardiovaskuläre Erkrankungen, Schlafstörungen und Epilepsie. Es gibt bei einigen dieser Erkrankungen Unterschiede in der klinischen Präsentation und der Therapie im Vergleich zu Patienten ohne Demenz. Die richtige Therapie dieser Komorbiditäten kann dabei nicht nur die Lebensqualität von Patienten und Angehörigen verbessern, sondern hat längerfristig oft auch einen positiven Einfluss auf den Verlauf der Alzheimer-Erkrankung.
Application of single-cell RNA sequencing analysis of novel breast cancer phenotypes based on the activation of ferroptosis-related genes
Authors: Liu Shuochuan , Zhao Yajie , Zhang Jiao , Liu Zhenzhen
Published: May 2023

Ferroptosis is distinct from classic apoptotic cell death characterized by the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxides on the cell membrane. Increasing findings have demonstrated that ferroptosis plays an important role in cancer development, but the exploration of ferroptosis in breast cancer is limited. In our study, we aimed to establish a ferroptosis activation-related model based on the differentially expressed genes between a group exhibiting high ferroptosis activation and a group exhibiting low ferroptosis activation. By using machine learning to establish the model, we verified the accuracy and efficiency of our model in The Cancer Genome Atlas Breast Invasive Carcinoma (TCGA-BRCA) set and gene expression omnibus (GEO) dataset. Additionally, our research innovatively utilized single-cell RNA sequencing data to systematically reveal the microenvironment in the high and low FeAS groups, which demonstrated differences between the two groups from comprehensive aspects, including the activation condition of transcription factors, cell pseudotime features, cell communication, immune infiltration, chemotherapy efficiency, and potential drug resistance. In conclusion, different ferroptosis activation levels play a vital role in influencing the outcome of breast cancer patients and altering the tumor microenvironment in different molecular aspects. By analyzing differences in ferroptosis activation levels, our risk model is characterized by a good prognostic capacity in assessing the outcome of breast cancer patients, and the risk score can be used to prompt clinical treatment to prevent potential drug resistance. By identifying the different tumor microenvironment landscapes between the high- and low-risk groups, our risk model provides molecular insight into ferroptosis in breast cancer patients.