bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RELA promotes the progression of oral squamous cell carcinoma via TFAP2A‐Wnt/β‐catenin signaling
Authors: Yang Kaicheng , Zhao Jianguang , Liu Shenghui , Man Shasha
Published: February 2023

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) has emerged as the most prevailing oral malignancy worldwide, characterized by cervical solid lymph node metastasis and strong local invasiveness. Overexpression of Transcription Factor AP‐2 alpha (TFAP2A) is observed in a significant proportion of OSCC cases. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the function of TFAP2A in the progression of OSCC and the related molecular signaling pathways. The role of RELA was predicted using bioinformatics analysis. The mRNA abundances of RELA, TFAP2A, and β‐catenin were assessed by Western blot and quantitative real‐timePCR. The relationship between RELA, TFAP2A, and β‐catenin and their correlation with clinicopathological characteristics of OSCC was evaluated. The target of RELA and TFAP2A was identified by the chromatin immunoprecipitation as well as luciferase reporter assay. The colony formation assay and MTS assay were performed to determine the proliferative level of OSCC cells. OSCC cell motility was determined by Transwell assay and wound‐healing assay. The protein expressions of epithelial–mesenchymal transition‐associated factors were evaluated by Western blot. The expressions of RELA and TFAP2A were elevated in OSCC, and their expressions displayed a positive correlation. The expression levels of RELA and TFAP2A were found to be associated with TNM staging and lymphatic metastasis of OSCC patients. RELA upregulation promoted OSCC progression, as manifested by increased levels of proliferation, invasion, and migration of OSCC cells. We also demonstrated that RELA was directly bound to the promoter of TFAP2A transcription, which activated multiple malignant and metastatic phenotypes. Furthermore, TFAP2A activated the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling by targeting the promoter regions of β‐catenin. The study found that RELA is critical for promoting the progression of OSCC via the RELA‐TFAP2A‐Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway. The RELA‐TFAP2A‐Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway is a potential target for reducing the aggressiveness of OSCC.
Peer effect of proprietary information: A cost–benefit analysis of customer information disclosure
Authors: Cao Liangyan , Lau Wee‐Yeap , Shaharuddin Shahrin Saaid
Published: February 2023

This study examines how industry peer firms' information disclosures affect firms' customer disclosure. Using samples of Chinese A‐share companies from 2007 to 2019, our results show the following: first, the peer firms' customer disclosures have a positive and significant effect on firms' customer disclosures. The results remain robust after the instrumental variable alleviates the endogeneity problem. Second, firms refer to peer firms' disclosure decisions only when it is difficult to weigh the disclosure benefits and costs. Third, firms tend to imitate the disclosure decisions of industry leaders. The cost–benefit hypothesis of proprietary information disclosure proposed in this study contributes to the literature.
Regulation of RNase E during the UV stress response in the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803
Authors: Watanabe Satoru , Stazic Damir , Georg Jens , Ohtake Shota , Sakamaki Yutaka , Numakura Megumi , Asayama Munehiko , Chibazakura Taku , Wilde Annegret , Steglich Claudia , Hess Wolfgang R.
Published: February 2023

Endoribonucleases govern the maturation and degradation of RNA and are indispensable in the posttranscriptional regulation of gene expression. A key endoribonuclease in Gram‐negative bacteria is RNase E. To ensure an appropriate supply of RNase E, some bacteria, such as Escherichia coli, feedback‐regulate RNase E expression via the rne 5′‐untranslated region (5′ UTR) in cis. However, the mechanisms involved in the control of RNase E in other bacteria largely remain unknown. Cyanobacteria rely on solar light as an energy source for photosynthesis, despite the inherent ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. In this study, we first investigated globally the changes in gene expression in the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 after a brief exposure to UV. Among the 407 responding genes 2 h after UV exposure was a prominent upregulation of rne mRNA level. Moreover, the enzymatic activity of RNase E rapidly increased as well, although the protein stability decreased. This unique response was underpinned by the increased accumulation of full‐length rne mRNA caused by the stabilization of its 5′ UTR and suppression of premature transcriptional termination, but not by an increased transcription rate. Mapping of RNA 3′ ends and in vitro cleavage assays revealed that RNase E cleaves within a stretch of six consecutive uridine residues within the rne 5′ UTR, indicating autoregulation. These observations suggest that RNase E in cyanobacteria contributes to reshaping the transcriptome during the UV stress response and that its required activity level is secured at the RNA level despite the enhanced turnover of the protein.
Pathologic, cytogenetic, and molecular features of acute myeloid leukemia with megakaryocytic differentiation: A report from the Children's Oncology Group
Authors: Chisholm Karen M. , Smith Jenny , Heerema‐McKenney Amy E. , Choi John K. , Ries Rhonda E. , Hirsch Betsy A. , Raimondi Susana C. , Wang Yi‐Cheng , Dang Alice , Alonzo Todd A. , Sung Lillian , Aplenc Richard , Gamis Alan S. , Meshinchi Soheil , Kahwash Samir B.
Published: February 2023

Background

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with megakaryocytic differentiation (AMkL) is a rare subtype of AML more common in children. Recent literature has identified multiple fusions associated with this type of leukemia.

Methods

Morphology, cytogenetics, and genomic sequencing were assessed in patients from Children's Oncology Group trials AAML0531 and AAML1031 with central‐pathology review confirmed non‐Down syndrome AMkL. The 5‐year event‐free survival (EFS), overall survival (OS), and RR were evaluated in these AMkL subcategories.

Results

A total of 107 cases of AMkL (5.5%) were included. Distinct fusions were identified in the majority: RBM15::MRTFA (20%), CBFA2T3::GLIS2 (16%), NUP98 (10%), KMT2A (7%), TEC::MLLT10 (2%), MECOM (1%), and FUS::ERG (1%); many of the remaining cases were classified as AMkL with (other) myelodysplasia‐related changes (MRC). Very few cases had AML‐associated somatic mutations. Cases with CBFA2T3::GLIS2 were enriched in trisomy 3 (p = .015) and the RAM phenotype, with associated high CD56 expression (p < .001). Cases with NUP98 fusions were enriched in trisomy 6 (p < .001), monosomy 13/del(13q) (p < .001), trisomy 21 (p = .026), and/or complex karyotypes (p = .026). While different 5‐year EFS and OS were observed in AMkL in each trial, in general, those with CBFA2T3::GLIS2 or KMT2A rearrangements had worse outcomes compared to other AMkL, while those with RBM15::MRTFA or classified as AMkl‐MRC fared better. AMkL with NUP98 fusions also had poor outcomes in the AAML1031 trial.

Conclusion

Given the differences in outcomes, AMkL classification by fusions, cytogenetics, and morphology may be warranted to help in risk stratification and therapeutic options.
Pulmonary artery sling: An overview
Authors: K. Rahmath Muhammed Riyas , Durward Andrew
Published: February 2023

Pulmonary artery sling is a rare childhood vascular tracheobronchial compression syndrome that is frequently associated with tracheal stenosis. Consequently, neonates or infants may present with critical airway obstruction if there is long segment airway narrowing and complete rings. Rapid diagnosis of this cardiac vascular malformation and evaluation of the extent and severity of airway involvement is essential to plan surgery, typically a slide tracheoplasty to relieve critical airway obstruction. Long term outcome can be excellent following surgical repair of the stenosed airway and reimplantation of the left pulmonary artery. In this review we focus on the embryology, diagnostic workup, airway investigations and management for this rare but challenging congenital condition.
Combinatorial treatment with Silybum marianum essential oil enhances the therapeutic efficacy of a 5‐fluorouracil base therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: MasodKhooy Mohammad Jaber , Farasat Massoumeh , Salehi Salmi Mohamadreza , Mirzaei Hamed
Published: February 2023

Silybum marianum seeds contain a family of flavonolignans which can regulate cancer cell proliferation and apoptosis. However, research has rarely focused on the effect of S. marianum essential oil in combination with another anticancer drug. Here, we evaluated the antitumor effect of a combination of 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU) and S. marianum essential oils on some pathways in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in vitro and in vivo. Gas chromatography–mass spectrography results indicated there was no significant difference between the components of essential oils isolated from two geographical areas (Khuzestan or Isfahan, Sm‐K or Sm‐I). Each preparation decreased the viability of H22 cells compared to the control group. S. marianum essential oils alone, and combined with 5‐FU, reduced the migration and invasion of H22 cells. Angiogenesis‐related proteins were significantly reduced both in vivo and in vitro. Apoptosis and autophagy‐related proteins were modulated both in vivo and in vitro. Each treatment decreased phospho‐NF‐κB (p65) and NF‐κB (p65) protein levels. Expression levels of Wnt pathway‐related genes were also decreased both in vivo and in vitro. Results revealed that the combination of S. marianum and 5‐FU prolonged survival in a mouse model of HCC compared to either treatment alone.
On the robustness of central composite designs when missing two observations
Authors: Alanazi Kareem , Georgiou Stelios D. , Stylianou Stella
Published: February 2023

Quite often, many situations arise in experimental work where some experimental runs that may not be feasible because of certain circumstances or existing constraints in the system under investigation. A lot of work has been done in studying classical designs, such as the central composite designs (CCDs), with missing observations. In this paper our interest is to research the losses that may occur when one or two observations are missing. The general formulas for missing two observations are presented in a closed form as a function of α, where α is the value used in the axial part in the CCDs. These are calculated explicitly for CCDs up to factors, for the first time in this paper, and are displayed in tables for practitioners to use. The losses for any value of α, in the axial points of the design, can be derived by simply replacing α with the desirable value in the provided formulas. A detailed comparison between our findings and results already known in the literature also been made.
Clinical performance of rapid antigen tests in comparison to RT‐PCR for SARS‐COV‐2 diagnosis in Omicron variant: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Mohammadie Zahra Eslami , Akhlaghi Saeed , Samaeinasab Saeed , Shaterzadeh‐Bojd Shakiba , Jamialahmadi Tannaz , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: February 2023

The Omicron variant of concern has a high level of mutations in different genes that has raised awareness about the performance of immunological products such as vaccines and antigen detection kits. In this systematic review and meta‐analysis, we investigated whether Omicron had a significant influence on rapid antigen test (RAT) performance in comparison to PCR. We registered this systematic review and meta‐analysis in PROSPERO with the registration number CRD42022355510. We searched PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science databases systematically to 1 August 2022. After article screening, we assessed the quality of the included studies based on the JBI checklist. Following data extraction, we performed a meta‐analysis using R software. We included 18 qualified articles presenting sufficient data about RATs performance in comparison to RT‐PCR in Omicron infections. The pooled specificity and sensitivity of RATs were 1.000 (0.997–1.000) and 0.671 (0.595–0.721), respectively. The FDA‐approved kits showed a better performance than WHO‐approved ones with a sensitivity of 0.728 (0.620–0.815). The use of RATs with nasal swabs showed a higher sensitivity compared with nasopharyngeal swabs. The sensitivity for samples with a CT‐value >25 was 0.108 (0.048–0.227). Rapid antigen tests show impaired performance for COVID‐19 diagnosis when the Omicron variant is circulating, particularly in samples with low viral loads.
Mental models, cognitive maps, and the challenge of quantitative analysis of their network representations
Authors: Haque Sumaiya , Mahmoudi Hesam , Ghaffarzadegan Navid , Triantis Konstantinos
Published: February 2023

Cognitive maps, or mental maps, are externalized portrayals of mental models—people's mental representations of reality and their presumptions about how the world works. They are often used as the intermediary step toward uncovering individuals' presumptions of the outside world. Yet, the next step is often vague: once one's understanding of the real world is mapped, how can we systematically evaluate the maps and compare and contrast them? In this note, we review several common approaches to analyzing cognitive maps, some rooted in network theories, and apply them to a dataset of 30 graduate students who analyzed a complex socioenvironmental problem. Our analysis shows that these methods provide inconsistent results and often fall short of capturing variations in mental models. The analysis points to a lack of effective methods for examining such maps and helps articulate a major research problem for systems‐thinking scholars. © 2023 System Dynamics Society.
The Need to Correctly and Deliberately Report “Efficiency” for Solar Water Evaporators
Authors: Gui Qingfeng , Gan Zhixing
Published: February 2023

Solar steam generation (SSG) is a very promising strategy for seawater desalination and wastewater purification. A solar‐to‐vapor (STV) conversion efficiency is used to characterize solar water evaporators. However, the definition of STV efficiency is an approximate concept. Besides, the equation for STV efficiency is widely misused to calculate the photothermal efficiency by the community. Most seriously, too much emphasis on the STV efficiency may hinder the development of SSG technology. Thus, the community is requested to correctly and deliberately report “efficiency” for solar water evaporators.
Chemobrionics Database: Categorisation of Chemical Gardens According to the Nature of the Anion, Cation and Experimental Procedure**
Authors: Pimentel Carlos , Zheng Mingchuan , Cartwright Julyan H. E. , Sainz‐Díaz C. Ignacio
Published: February 2023

Considering the growing importance of the field of chemobrionics since the term was coined in 2015 and the increase in the number of published papers, it has become necessary to catalogue all the papers published to date. Here, we present the chemobrionics database, which lists all the chemical gardens synthesised according to their anion, cation and experimental protocol. The aim of this database is to encourage the study and dissemination of chemical gardens in order to find new experimental avenues in the field of chemobrionics. As this is such a fruitful field, the database is continuously updated.
The evaluation of normal ocular parameters in two breeds of hedgehogs
Authors: Aftab Ghazal , Arfaee Farnoosh , Asghari Ahmad , Zahraei Salehi Taghi
Published: February 2023

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate conjunctival microflora and measure normal tear production and intraocular pressure (IOP) in two breeds of hedgehogs (long‐eared hedgehogs and Brandt's hedgehogs).

Methods

Forty‐eight hedgehogs from two different breeds were chosen for the study. Tear production was measured using the Schirmer tear test (STT) and phenol red thread test (PRTT) in both eyes. IOP was measured using a rebound tonometer. To perform microbiological sampling one drop of tetracaine was instilled in the eyes. Two sterile microswabs were used to collect samples for the microbial and fungal culture. All the microswab samples were transferred in phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS) to the laboratory for culture. Two MacConkey and two blood agar media plates were employed for each eye. Oneplate of sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA) was used for the fungal culture for each eye. Standard biochemical tests were performed to identify the isolated organisms.

Results

The mean STT and PRTT values were 1.6 ± 0.1 mm/min and 2.4 ± 0.3 mm/15 s in long‐eared hedgehogs and 2.2 ± 0.1 mm/min and 2.5 ± 0.3 mm/15 s in Brandt's hedgehogs, respectively. Mean (SD) Intraocular pressure of right eyes in long‐eared hedgehog and Brandt hedgehog were 19.7 ± 1.4 mmHg and 19.2 ± 2.4 mmHg, respectively. In the left eyes of long‐eared hedgehog and Brandt hedgehog mean (SD) IOP were 19.8 ± 1.5 mmHg and 19.5 ± 2.1 mmHg, respectively. In long‐eared hedgehogs, the most common bacteria wereStaphylococcus epidermidisand Bacillus spp. In Brandt's hedgehogs, 24 out of 48 eyes hadStaphylococcus epidermidis, which was the most commonly isolated bacterial species.

Conclusions

This study established reference intervals for IOP, STT and PRTT in hedgehogs and recognised and compared ocular conjunctival microflora in two breeds of hedgehogs.
Accessing the thermodynamics of Walter‐B fluid with magnetic dipole effect past a curved stretching surface
Authors: Khan Noor Saeed , Hussanan Abid , Kumam Wiyada , Kumam Poom , Suttiarporn Panawan
Published: February 2023

The effects of magnetic dipole, porosity and heat transfer on the flow of ferromagnetic Walter‐B fluid past a curved stretching sheet is investigated with the gyrotactic microorganisms motion and cubic autocatalysis chemical reactions. The momentum, energy, homogeneous–heterogeneous chemical reactions and gyrotactic microorganisms motion equations, form the problem's governing equations, which are transformed into non‐linear ordinary differential equations via similarity transformations and are solved using an efficient and strong technique namely homotopy analysis method. The effects of the parameters under consideration on dimensionless velocity, temperature, homogeneous–heterogeneous chemical reaction, and motile microorganisms are graphically depicted and discussed in detail. Velocity decreases with the increasing values of curvature parameter while the magnetic dipole effect and Curie temperature parameter increase the heat transfer. The homogeneous chemical reaction and the motile density of microorganisms are enhanced with the rising values of elasticity and ferromagnetic interaction parameters.
Impact of central complex lesions on innate and learnt visual navigation in ants
Authors: Buehlmann Cornelia , Dell-Cronin Scarlett , Diyalagoda Pathirannahelage Angela , Goulard Roman , Webb Barbara , Niven Jeremy E. , Graham Paul
Published: February 2023

Wood ants are excellent navigators, using a combination of innate and learnt navigational strategies to travel between their nest and feeding sites. Visual navigation in ants has been studied extensively, however, we have little direct evidence for the underlying neural mechanisms. Here, we perform lateralized mechanical lesions in the central complex (CX) of wood ants, a midline structure known to allow an insect to keep track of the direction of sensory cues relative to its own orientation and to control movement. We lesioned two groups of ants and observed their behaviour in an arena with a large visual landmark present. The first group of ants were naïve and when intact such ants show a clear innate attraction to the conspicuous landmark. The second group of ants were trained to aim to a food location to the side of the landmark. The general heading of naïve ants towards a visual cue was not altered by the lesions, but the heading of ants trained to a landmark adjacent food position was affected. Thus, CX lesions had a specific impact on learnt visual guidance. We also observed that lateralised lesions altered the fine details of turning with lesioned ants spending less time turning to the side ipsilateral of the lesion. The results confirm the role of the CX in turn control and highlight its important role in the implementation of learnt behaviours that rely on information from other brain regions.
Discrete mixture representations of spherical distributions
Authors: Baringhaus Ludwig , Grübel Rudolf
Published: February 2023

We obtain discrete mixture representations for parametric families of probability distributions on Euclidean spheres, such as the von Mises–Fisher, the Watson and the angular Gaussian families. In addition to several special results we present a general approach to isotropic distribution families that is based on density expansions in terms of special surface harmonics. We discuss the connections to stochastic processes on spheres, in particular random walks, discrete mixture representations derived from spherical diffusions, and the use of Markov representations for the mixing base to obtain representations for families of spherical distributions.
Influence of Various Heat Treatment Cycles on the Phase Transformation and Microstructure Evolution of AISI 329 Super-Duplex Stainless Steel
Authors: El-Bagoury Nader , Halfa Hossam , Moussa M. E.
Published: February 2023

The importance of duplex stainless steel in the global steel industries takes from its application because of its utilization in the environment, the paper industries, and pipelines and reactions champers found in the gas, oil, and chemicals industries. This research investigates the effect of various heat treatment cycles on the intermetallic compound precipitation and different constituents' evolution of the AISI 329 steel. Also, this investigation aims at exploring the relationship of the microstructure evolution at various heat treatment cycles and its effect on the tensile properties of selected steel. The phase transformation studies were conducted theoretically utilizing the JMatPro program and experimentally employing differential scanning calorimetry tests and dilatation; the obtained microstructure was inspected by exploiting a light metallographic microscope, a field-emission scanning electron microscope, and x-ray diffraction. The results illustrated that the microstructure includes ferrite, austenite phases, and dispersive particles. The dispersive particles are carbide particles and intermetallic compounds. Furthermore, the sigma phase settled at the boundaries of the ferrite grains. Intermetallic compounds were observed in both cast and heat-treated steel microstructures. Observed intermetallic compounds have no specific engineering geometry with various sizes, and the main alloying elements are Cr, Fe, and Mn. Special heat treatment, including solid solution and aging at high temperatures, leads to thinning of the sigma phase while diminishing the size of the intermetallic compound. Tensile properties were enhanced by controlling the volume fraction of different constituents that are adjusted by heat treatment. The fracture morphology is consistent with the microstructure and tensile properties of the investigated steel.
Delayed mechanical ventilation with prolonged high-flow nasal cannula exposure time as a risk factor for mortality in acute respiratory distress syndrome due to SARS-CoV-2
Authors: López-Ramírez Viviana Yiset , Sanabria-Rodríguez Oscar Orlando , Bottia-Córdoba Santiago , Muñoz-Velandia Oscar Mauricio
Published: February 2023

In a high proportion of patients, infection by COVID-19 progresses to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), requiring invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) and admission to an intensive care unit (ICU). Other devices, such as a high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC), have been alternatives to IMV in settings with limited resources. This study evaluates whether HFNC exposure time prior to IMV is associated with mortality. This observational, analytical study was conducted on a historical cohort of adults with ARDS due to SARS-CoV-2 who were exposed to HFNC and subsequently underwent IMV. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze the impact of HFNC exposure time on mortality, controlling for multiple potential confounders. Of 325 patients with ARDS, 41 received treatment with HFNC for more than 48 h before IMV initiation. These patients had a higher mortality rate (43.9% vs. 27.1%,p: 0.027) than those using HFNC < 48 h. Univariate analysis evidenced an association between mortality and HFNC ≥ 48 h (OR 2.16. 95% CI 1.087–4.287.p: 0.028). Such an association persisted in the multivariable analysis (OR 2.21. 95% CI 1.013–4.808.p: 0.046) after controlling for age, sex, comorbidities, basal severity of infection, and complications. This study also identified a significant increase in mortality after 36 h in HFNC (46.3%,p: 0.003). In patients with ARDS due to COVID-19, HFNC exposure ≥ 48 h prior to IMV is a factor associated with mortality after controlling multiple confounders. Physiological mechanisms for such an association are need to be defined.
Recent Advances in Serum Biomarkers for Risk Stratification and Patient Management in Cardio-Oncology
Authors: Joolharzadeh Pouya , Rodriguez Mario , Zaghlol Raja , Pedersen Lauren N. , Jimenez Jesus , Bergom Carmen , Mitchell Joshua D.
Published: February 2023

Purpose of Review

Following significant advancements in cancer therapeutics and survival, the risk of cancer therapy-related cardiotoxicity (CTRC) is increasingly recognized. With ongoing efforts to reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in cancer patients and survivors, cardiac biomarkers have been studied for both risk stratification and monitoring during and after therapy to detect subclinical disease. This article will review the utility for biomarker use throughout the cancer care continuum.

Recent Findings

A recent meta-analysis shows utility for troponin in monitoring patients at risk for CTRC during cancer therapy. The role for natriuretic peptides is less clear but may be useful in patients receiving proteasome inhibitors. Early studies explore use of myeloperoxidase, growth differentiation factor 15, galectin 3, micro-RNA, and others as novel biomarkers in CTRC.

Biomarkers have potential to identify subclinical CTRC and may reveal opportunities for early intervention. Further research is needed to elucidate optimal biomarkers and surveillance strategies.
Conditioned Medium – Is it an Undervalued Lab Waste with the Potential for Osteoarthritis Management?
Authors: Rosochowicz Monika A. , Lach Michał S. , Richter Magdalena , Suchorska Wiktoria M. , Trzeciak Tomasz
Published: February 2023

Background

The approaches currently used in osteoarthritis (OA) are mainly short-term solutions with unsatisfactory outcomes. Cell-based therapies are still controversial (in terms of the sources of cells and the results) and require strict culture protocol, quality control, and may have side-effects. A distinct population of stromal cells has an interesting secretome composition that is underrated and commonly ends up as biological waste. Their unique properties could be used to improve the existing techniques due to protective and anti-ageing properties.

Scope of Review

In this review, we seek to outline the advantages of the use of conditioned media (CM) and exosomes, which render them superior to other cell-based methods, and to summarise current information on the composition of CM and their effect on chondrocytes.

Major Conclusions

CM are obtainable from a variety of mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) sources, such as adipose tissue, bone marrow and umbilical cord, which is significant to their composition. The components present in CMs include proteins, cytokines, growth factors, chemokines, lipids and ncRNA with a variety of functions. In most in vitro and in vivo studies CM from MSCs had a beneficial effect in enhance processes associated with chondrocyte OA pathomechanism.

General Significance

This review summarises the information available in the literature on the function of components most commonly detected in MSC-conditioned media, as well as the effect of CM on OA chondrocytes in in vitro culture. It also highlights the need to standardise protocols for obtaining CM, and to conduct clinical trials to transfer the effects obtained in vitro to human subjects.

Graphical Abstract
Our evolved understanding of the human health risks of mercury
Authors: Basu Niladri , Bastiansz Ashley , Dórea José G. , Fujimura Masatake , Horvat Milena , Shroff Emelyn , Weihe Pál , Zastenskaya Irina
Published: February 2023

Mercury (Hg) is a chemical of health concern worldwide that is now being acted upon through the Minamata Convention. Operationalizing the Convention and tracking its effectiveness requires empathy of the diversity and variation of mercury exposure and risk in populations worldwide. As part of the health plenary for the 15th International Conference on Mercury as a Global Pollutant (ICMGP), this review paper details how scientific understandings have evolved over time, from tragic poisoning events in the mid-twentieth century to important epidemiological studies in the late-twentieth century in the Seychelles and Faroe Islands, the Arctic and Amazon. Entering the twenty-first century, studies on diverse source-exposure scenarios (e.g., ASGM, amalgams, contaminated sites, cosmetics, electronic waste) from across global regions have expanded understandings and exemplified the need to consider socio-environmental variables and local contexts when conducting health studies. We conclude with perspectives on next steps for mercury health research in the post-Minamata Convention era.
GIS-based revised universal soil loss equation for estimating annual soil erosion: a case of lower Kulsi basin, India
Authors: Thakuriah G.
Published: February 2023

Assessment and estimation of soil loss is a fundamental aspect of land and water resource conservation and management practices as it provides necessary information in the course of watershed-level development of a region. The soil loss model of Wischmeier and Smith, popularly known as the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation, was selected to estimate soil loss in the lower Kulsi river basin due to its simplicity, versatility, and flexibility nature method in the Geographic information system platform. Most original governmental datasets, mainly daily gauge rainfall from 2009 to 2018, satellite images for land use land cover, digital elevation model of Shuttle Radar Topographic Mission for topographic factor, and National Bureau of Soil Survey and Land-use Planning, India soil map were utilized to estimate the average annual soil erosion. The estimated average annual soil erosion ranges from 0.0 to 6.45 thousand t ha−1y−1, grouped into low, moderate, high, and very high risk of soil erosion. A basin area of 36.235 km2 (1.85%) basin area was identified as high to very high zones of soil erosion risk and needed immediate conservation measures to reduce the erosion risk.
Comparison of outpatient antibiotic prescriptions among older adults in IQVIA Xponent and publicly available Medicare Part D data, 2018
Authors: Beshearse Elizabeth M. , Gouin Katryna A. , Fleming-Dutra Katherine E. , Tsay Sharon , Hicks Lauri A. , Kabbani Sarah
Published: February 2023

The distributions of antibiotic prescriptions by geography, antibiotic class, and prescriber specialty are similar in the US Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Part D Prescriber Public Use Files and IQVIA Xponent dataset. Public health organizations and healthcare systems can use these data to track antibiotic use and guide antibiotic stewardship interventions for older adults.
Factors Predicting Prolonged Mechanical Ventilation in Guillain–Barré Syndrome
Authors: López-Hernández Juan Carlos , Vargas-Cañas Edwin Steven , Galnares-Olalde Javier Andrés , López-Alderete Jorge Alberto , López-Pizano Alejandro , Rivas-Cruz Mijail Adán , Violante-Villanueva Jesús Arturo , Paredes-Aragón Elma
Published: February 2023

Background:

Up to 30% of patients with Guillain–Barré syndrome require mechanical ventilation and 5% die due to acute complications of mechanical ventilation. There is a considerable group of patients that will need prolonged mechanical ventilation (considered as >14 days) and should be considered for early tracheostomy. The objective of this study is to identify risk factors for prolonged mechanical ventilation.

Methods:

We prospectively analyzed patients with Guillain–Barré diagnosis with versus without prolonged mechanical ventilation. We considered clinical and electrophysiological characteristics and analyzed factors associated with prolonged mechanical ventilation.

Results:

Three hundred and three patients were included; 29% required mechanical ventilation. When comparing the groups, patients with prolonged invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) have a lower score on the Medical Research Council score (19.5 ± 16.2 vs 27.4 ± 17.5, p = 0.03) and a higher frequency of dysautonomia (42.3% vs 19.4%, p = 0.037), as well as lower amplitudes of the distal compound muscle action potential (CMAP) of the median nerve [0.37 (RIQ 0.07–2.25) vs. 3.9 (RIQ1.2–6.4), p = <0.001] and ulnar nerve [0.37 (RIQ0.0–3.72) vs 1.5 (RIQ0.3–6.6), p = <0.001], and higher frequency of severe axonal damage in these nerves (distal CMAP ≤ 1.0 mV). Through binary logistic regression, severe axonal degeneration of the median nerve is an independent risk factor for prolonged IMV OR 4.9 (95%CI 1.1–21.5) p = 0.03, AUC of 0.774, (95%CI 0.66–0.88), p = < 0.001.

Conclusions:

Severe median nerve damage is an independent risk factor for prolonged mechanical ventilation.
Validity and reliability of food frequency questionnaire used in age-related eye disease studies in Turkish adults
Authors: Akpınar Şerife , Köksal Eda
Published: February 2023

The present study aimed to perform the validity and reliability study of the Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) on the frequency of foods rich in antioxidant nutrients and used in Age-Related Eye Diseases (AREDs). In the first interview of the study, the first application of FFQ was carried out, and blank forms of Dietary Records (DRs) were given. For the validity of the FFQ, a total of 12 d (3 days * 4 weeks) of DR were taken. For the reliability of the FFQ, a test–retest application was made with an interval of 4 weeks. The daily intake means of antioxidant nutrients, omega 3 and total antioxidant capacity data obtained from both the FFQ and DR were calculated, and the concordance between the two methods was evaluated with the Pearson Correlation Coefficient (PCC) and Bland–Altman graphs. The present study was carried out at Ege University İzmir/Turkey, Department of Ophthalmology, Retina Unit. The study was conducted with individuals aged ≥50 years who suffered from Age-Related Macular Degeneration (n100, 72⋅0 ± 8⋅03 years). The values obtained from the test–retest applications for FFQ reliability were the same. The nutrient intake means obtained from the FFQ were similar or significantly higher than DR (P< 0⋅05). In the Bland–Altman graphical approach, the nutrient data were within the limits of agreement, and the PCCs between the two methods were moderately related. Considered together, this FFQ is a suitable tool for determining the dietary intakes of antioxidant nutrients in the Turkish population.
How the geochemistry of syn-kinematic calcite cement depicts past fluid flow and assists structural interpretations: a review of concepts and applications in orogenic forelands
Authors: Beaudoin Nicolas E. , Lacombe Olivier , Hoareau Guilhem , Callot Jean-Paul
Published: February 2023

Orogenic forelands host interactions between deformation and static or migrating fluids. Given their accessibility and dimensions, these areas are not only historic landmarks for structural geology, but they are also areas of prime interest for georesource exploration and geological storage, and loci of potential geohazards. Geochemical techniques applied on cements filling tectonic structures and associated trapped fluids can constrain the temperature, pressure, origin and pathways of fluids during deformation and allow the characterization of the past fluid system. In this review focused on calcite cements, we first present and critically discuss the most used geochemical techniques to appraise specific parameters of the fluid system. Second, we summarize the outcomes of selected case studies where the past fluid system was reconstructed with consideration of tectonics, either at the scale of the individual fold/thrust or at the scale of the fold-and-thrust belt. At first order, the past fluid system evolves in a similar way with respect to the considered stage of deformation, being rather closed to external fluids when deformation is bounded to mesoscale structure development, and opening to vertical flow when thrust and folds develop. In a more detailed view, it seems that the past fluid system evolves and distributes under the influence of the structural style, of the geometry of the major faults and of the lithology of the sedimentary succession. Through this review, we illustrate the concept of geochemistry-assisted structural geology through case studies where the geochemistry of calcite veins constrained subsurface geometries and structural developments in orogenic forelands.
Zoonotic helminths – why the challenge remains
Authors: Thompson R.C.A.
Published: February 2023

Helminth zoonoses remain a global problem to public health and the economy of many countries. Polymerase chain reaction-based techniques and sequencing have resolved many taxonomic issues and are now essential to understanding the epidemiology of helminth zoonotic infections and the ecology of the causative agents. This is clearly demonstrated from research on Echinococcus (echinococcosis) and Trichinella (trichinosis). Unfortunately, a variety of anthropogenic factors are worsening the problems caused by helminth zoonoses. These include cultural factors, urbanization and climate change. Wildlife plays an increasingly important role in the maintenance of many helminth zoonoses making surveillance and control increasingly difficult. The emergence or re-emergence of helminth zoonoses such as Ancylostoma ceylanicum, Toxocara, Dracunculus and Thelazia exacerbate an already discouraging scenario compounding the control of a group of long neglected diseases.
Eco-evolutionary implications of helminth microbiomes
Authors: Salloum P.M. , Jorge F. , Dheilly N.M. , Poulin R.
Published: February 2023

The evolution of helminth parasites has long been seen as an interplay between host resistance to infection and the parasite's capacity to bypass such resistance. However, there has recently been an increasing appreciation of the role of symbiotic microbes in the interaction of helminth parasites and their hosts. It is now clear that helminths have a different microbiome from the organisms they parasitize, and sometimes amid large variability, components of the microbiome are shared among different life stages or among populations of the parasite. Helminths have been shown to acquire microbes from their parent generations (vertical transmission) and from their surroundings (horizontal transmission). In this latter case, natural selection has been strongly linked to the fact that helminth-associated microbiota is not simply a random assemblage of the pool of microbes available from their organismal hosts or environments. Indeed, some helminth parasites and specific microbial taxa have evolved complex ecological relationships, ranging from obligate mutualism to reproductive manipulation of the helminth by associated microbes. However, our understanding is still very elementary regarding the net effect of all microbiome components in the eco-evolution of helminths and their interaction with hosts. In this non-exhaustible review, we focus on the bacterial microbiome associated with helminths (as opposed to the microbiome of their hosts) and highlight relevant concepts and key findings in bacterial transmission, ecological associations, and taxonomic and functional diversity of the bacteriome. We integrate the microbiome dimension in a discussion of the evolution of helminth parasites and identify fundamental knowledge gaps, finally suggesting research avenues for understanding the eco-evolutionary impacts of the microbiome in host–parasite interactions in light of new technological developments.
A review on gait generation of the biped robot on various terrains
Authors: Khan Moh Shahid , Mandava Ravi Kumar
Published: February 2023

Day by day, biped robots’ usage is increasing enormously in all industrial and non-industrial applications due to their ability to move in any unstructured environment compared to wheeled robots. Keeping this in mind, worldwide, many researchers are working on various aspects of biped robots, such as gait generation, dynamic balance margin, and the design of controllers. The main aim of this review article is to discuss the main challenges encountered in the biped gait generation and design of various controllers while moving on different terrain conditions such as flat, ascending and descending slopes or stairs, avoiding obstacles/ditches, uneven terrain, and an unknown environment. As per the authors’ knowledge, no single study has been carried out in one place related to the gait generation and design of controllers for each joint of the biped robot on various terrains. This review will help researchers working in this field better understand the concepts of gait generation, dynamic balance margin, and the design of controllers while moving on various terrains. Moreover, the current article will also cover the different soft computing techniques used to tune the gains of the controllers. In this article, the authors have reviewed a vast compilation of research work on the gait generation of the biped robot on various terrains. Further, the authors have proposed taxonomies on various design issues identified while generating the gait in different aspects. The authors reviewed approximately 296 articles and discovered that all researchers attempted to generate the dynamically balanced biped gait on various terrains.
Variability as a functional marker of second language development in older adult learners
Authors: Pfenninger Simone E. , Kliesch Maria
Published: February 2023

This longitudinal study with time-serial data examines for the first time whether different types of intraindividual variation in second language (L2) performance and cognitive functioning are related, and how and when they influence L2 development longitudinally in older adulthood. We analyzed the L2 development of 26 German-speaking adults aged 62–79 who were taught L2 English for 2 × 90 minutes per week over 6 months. At each of the 15 measurements, the participants completed three L2 tasks and eight cognitive measures, and they answered open-ended questions about socioaffective variables such as L2 motivation. Results of generalized additive mixed models and qualitative content analyses showed,inter alia, that L2 variability—rather than inconsistency or dispersion—had a (nonlinear) effect on L2 growth, being especially large during periods of rapid development. The qualitative analyses revealed a blended operation of internal and external states being associated with periods of significant L2 growth.
Individual differences differentially influence language domains and learning mechanisms
Authors: CHONDROGIANNI Vicky
Published: February 2023

Paradis’ (2023) keynote article is a timely documentation of the ongoing shift in focus within childhood bilingualism research from investigating the factors that modulate majority or second language (ML/L2) attainment (Chondrogianni & Marinis, 2011) to understanding the sources of variation that lead to minority heritage language (HL) maintenance. This shift of focus into individual differences (IDs) in bilingual performance across both languages reflects converging research carried out in the past twenty years reporting that, when learning barriers are not at stake, bilingual children can reach ML outcomes. It also aligns with research findings suggesting that ML educational or linguistic outcomes are directly related to the successful attainment of HL educational and linguistic milestones, which, in turn, reinforce the need for the HL to be supported.
Effectiveness of quadrivalent HPV vaccination in reducing vaccine-type and nonvaccine-type high risk HPV infection
Authors: Li Chenxi , Hall Thomas G. , Hall John J. , He Wen-Qiang
Published: February 2023

This study aimed to assess human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine effectiveness (VE) against both vaccine-type and nonvaccine-type high-risk HPV (hrHPV) infection, and duration of protection in United States. The study population was female participants aged 18–35 years with an HPV vaccination history and genital testing for HPV from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2007–2016. Participants vaccinated before sexual debut were assessed against 13 nonvaccine-type hrHPV infection including 31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59/68/73/82. Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate VE overall, by age at diagnosis, time since vaccination and lifetime sexual partners. A total of 3866 women were included in the analysis, with 23.3% (95% CI 21.3%–25.4%) having been vaccinated (≥1 dose). VE against vaccine-type HPV18/16/11/6 infection was 58% overall, which was mainly driven by those aged 18–22 years (VE = 64%) and 23–27 years (65%). Among participants aged 18–22 years vaccinated before sexual debut, the VE was 47% (23%–64%) against 13 nonvaccine-type hrHPV and 61% (95% CI 36%–77%) against 5 selected nonvaccine-type hrHPV35/39/52/58/59. Both direct effectiveness and cross-protection maintained effective for 5–10 years post vaccination. We also found the prevalence of ever diagnosed cervical cancer among vaccinated was significantly lower (0.46%, 4/874) than that among unvaccinated participants (1.27%, 38/2992). These findings highlight the potential of significant reduction of cervical cancer following the universal HPV vaccination programme.
Ancestral Waters: Material Culture, Notion of Transformation and Shamanism in the Stilt Villages in Eastern Amazonia
Authors: Navarro Alexandre
Published: February 2023

This work aims to apply the theories of new materialities to the study of the material culture of the Formoso stilt village, a pre-colonial settlement from the ninth–tenth centuriesad, located in the Baixada Maranhense. Appliqués of the pottery bowls at this archaeological site present cosmological information regarding the transformation or metamorphosis of bodies, aspects that are fertile for the discussion of shamanism in the lowlands of South America, especially the Amazon. Classic concepts of anthropological ethnography applied to archaeology are used, contributing to the discussion on the diversity of ways to manufacture the body in the Amazon in its easternmost portion, such as that of theMaster of Animals, a supernatural entity metamorphosed by the shaman and who could also have been part of the cosmology of the lake peoples of Maranhão, Brazil. Two artifacts depicting beings that have their feet turned backwards may be associated with the Curupira, thus evidencing a long-lasting history of this supernatural being that was recorded both in colonial documentation and in indigenous ethnography.