bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the monitoring method of debonding between concrete beams and reinforced steel plates based on piezoelectric smart materials
Authors: Wang Yanru , Kong Hu , Sun Yaxi , Tan Mingli , Chen Lihua
Published: February 2024

Concrete reinforcement is essential for ensuring the safety and durability of concrete structures. Bonding steel plates to reinforce concrete is widely used to renovate or strengthen concrete beam structures. Due to construction quality and the influence of factors such as environment and fatigue, debonding often occurs between the steel plate and concrete, making monitoring and early warning after concrete structure reinforcement challenging. This paper proposes a novel approach to monitor the degree of debonding between the steel plate and concrete beam using active sensing technology. The method uses lead zirconate titanate (PZT) as an actuator to generate stress waves. It prepares strip sensors with polyvinylidene fluoride as the sensing element to monitor stress waves passing through the steel plate and concrete beam. The monitoring system detects the degree of debonding between the steel plate and the concrete beam by monitoring the change in surface voltage of the sensor. Experiments show that the degree of debonding significantly correlates with the received voltage signal; the higher the debonding, the larger the received voltage signal. It is also observed that, at the same degree of debonding, the actuator and sensor attachment position have a particular impact on the received voltage signal. Through experiments and numerical simulation analysis, it is found that when the sensor is attached to the left side of the steel plate, that is, the bonded section of the steel plate, the amplitude of the voltage signal collected by the dynamic information acquisition system is the smallest, i.e., V_debonded section > V_middle > V_bonded section. Based on the above research, the active sensing technology proposed in this paper has good sensitivity to the degree of debonding between the steel plate and concrete. It is expected to become an effective monitoring and evaluation method for the degree of debonding between steel plates and concrete.
Development of autoimmune thyroid disease after COVID-19 infection: case report
Authors: Du Si-na , Chen Jian-wei , Li Wei , Wang Meng-chuan , Mao Yu-shan
Published: February 2024

Background

SARS-CoV-2 could trigger multiple immune responses, leading to several autoimmune diseases, including thyroid diseases. Many cases of thyroid diseases caused by COVID-19 infection have been reported. Here, we describe the disease development of patients with autoimmune thyroid disease after COVID-19 infection.

Methods

The clinical characteristics, diagnosis and treatment of five different patients with autoimmune thyroid disease after COVID-19 infection were reported.

Results

Female patients with primary autoimmune thyroid disease which have been stable for many years were reported. One month after COVID-19 infection, the disease has undergone different evolution. Case 1, a patient with history of long-term stable Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, suddenly suffered from Graves disease after COVID-19 infection. Case 2, a patient with history of long-term stable Hashimoto’s thyroiditis with thyroid nodules, suddenly suffered from Graves disease after infection. Case 3, a patient with history of long-term stable Graves disease, suddenly suffered from worsening after infection. The above three cases showed thyroid-stimulating antibodies were enhanced. Case 4, a patient with history of previous hypothyroidism had an increase in thyroid-related antibody (TPOAb and TRAb) activity after infection, followed by a marked worsening of hypothyroidism. Case 5, a patient with no history of thyroid disease suddenly developed controllable “thyrotoxicosis” after infection, suggesting the diagnosis of painless thyroiditis.

Conclusion

The five case reports show a different development of the primary autoimmune thyroid disease after COVID-19 infection. The change in the trend of thyroid disease is closely related to the immune response induced by SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Causes and management strategies for elevated intraocular pressure after implantable collamer lens implantation
Authors: Gong Di , Deng Simin , Dang Kuanrong , Yan Zonghui , Wang Jiantao
Published: February 2024

With the widespread application of Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) implantation surgery in the field of myopia correction, a comprehensive understanding of its potential complications, especially those related to intraocular pressure (IOP), becomes crucial. This article systematically reviews various complications that may lead to IOP elevation after ICL surgery. Firstly, common complications after ICL surgery, including residual viscoelastic, steroid response, and excessive vault of the ICL, are detailed, emphasizing their potential impact on intraocular pressure. Regarding residual viscoelastic, we delve into its direct relationship with postoperative elevated IOP and possible preventive measures. For steroid response, we stress the importance of timely adjustment of steroid therapy and monitoring intraocular pressure. Additionally, excessive vault of the ICL is considered a significant potential issue, and we elaborate on its mechanism and possible management methods. In further discussion, we focus on relatively rare complications such as Toxic Anterior Segment Syndrome (TASS), Urrets-Zavalia Syndrome (UZS), Pigment Dispersion Syndrome (PDS), and malignant glaucoma. For these relatively rare complications, this review thoroughly explores their potential mechanisms, emphasizes the importance of prevention, and provides guidance for early diagnosis and treatment. This is a comprehensible review that aims to offer eye care professionals a comprehensive understanding and effective management guidance for complications of elevated IOP after ICL surgery, ultimately providing optimal care for patients’ visual health.
Transcriptome analysis of salivary glands of rabies-virus-infected mice
Authors: Guo Xin , Zhang Maolin , Feng Ye , Liu Xiaomin , Wang Chongyang , Zhang Yannan , Wang Zichen , Zhang Danwei , Guo Yidi
Published: February 2024

Rabies is a fatal zoonotic disease that poses a threat to public health. Rabies virus (RABV) is excreted in the saliva of infected animals, and is primarily transmitted by bite. The role of the salivary glands in virus propagation is significant, but has been less studied in the pathogenic mechanisms of RABV. To identify functionally important genes in the salivary glands, we used RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) to establish and analyze mRNA expression profiles in parotid tissue infected with two RABV strains, CVS-11 and PB4. The biological functions of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were determined by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis, which revealed 3,764 DEGs (678 up-regulated and 3,086 down-regulated) in the CVS-11 infected group and 4,557 DEGs (874 up-regulated and 3,683 down-regulated) in the PB4 infected group. Various biological processes are involved, including the salivary secretion pathway and the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-Akt (PI3K-Akt) signaling pathway. This study provides the first mapping of the transcriptome changes in response to RABV infection in parotid tissue, offering new insights into the study of RABV-affected salivary gland function and RABV pathogenic mechanisms in parotid tissue. The salivary gland-enriched transcripts may be potential targets of interest for rabies disease control.
Modifiable dementia risk factors and AT(N) biomarkers: findings from the EPAD cohort
Authors: Roccati Eddy , Bindoff Aidan David , Collins Jessica Marie , Eastgate Joshua , Borchard Jay , Alty Jane , King Anna Elizabeth , Vickers James Clement , Carboni Margherita , Logan Chad ,   EPAD Consortium
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Modifiable risk factors account for a substantial proportion of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) cases and we currently have a discrete AT(N) biomarker profile for AD biomarkers: amyloid (A), p-tau (T), and neurodegeneration (N). Here, we investigated how modifiable risk factors relate to the three hallmark AT(N) biomarkers of AD.

Methods

Participants from the European Prevention of Alzheimer’s Dementia (EPAD) study underwent clinical assessments, brain magnetic resonance imaging, and cerebrospinal fluid collection and analysis. Generalized additive models (GAMs) with penalized regression splines were modeled in the AD Workbench on the NTKApp.

Results

A total of 1,434 participants were included (56% women, 39% APOE ε4+) with an average age of 65.5 (± 7.2) years. We found that modifiable risk factors of less education (t = 3.9, p < 0.001), less exercise (t = 2.1, p = 0.034), traumatic brain injury (t = −2.1, p = 0.036), and higher body mass index (t = −4.5, p < 0.001) were all significantly associated with higher AD biomarker burden.

Discussion

This cross-sectional study provides further support for modifiable risk factors displaying neuroprotective associations with the characteristic AT(N) biomarkers of AD.
Neurexin dysfunction in neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders: a PRIMSA-based systematic review through iPSC and animal models
Authors: Shan Dan , Song Yuming , Zhang Yanyi , Ho Cheong Wong , Xia Wenxin , Li Zhi , Ge Fenfen , Ou Qifeng , Dai Zijie , Dai Zhihao
Published: February 2024

Background

Neurexins, essential synaptic proteins, are linked to neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders like autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and schizophrenia.

Objective

Through this systematic review, we aimed to shed light on the relationship between neurexin dysfunction and its implications in neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric manifestations. Both animal and human-induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) models served as our primary investigative platforms.

Methods

Utilizing the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, our search strategy involved scouring articles from the PubMed and Google Scholar databases covering a span of two decades (2003–2023). Of the initial collection, 27 rigorously evaluated studies formed the essence of our review.

Results

Our review suggested the significant ties between neurexin anomalies and neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric outcomes, most notably ASD. Rodent-based investigations delineated pronounced ASD-associated behaviors, and hiPSC models derived from ASD-diagnosed patients revealed the disruptions in calcium dynamics and synaptic activities. Additionally, our review underlined the integral role of specific neurexin variants, primarily NRXN1, in the pathology of schizophrenia. It was also evident from our observation that neurexin malfunctions were implicated in a broader array of these disorders, including ADHD, intellectual challenges, and seizure disorders.

Conclusion

This review accentuates the cardinal role neurexins play in the pathological process of neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders. The findings underscore a critical need for standardized methodologies in developing animal and hiPSC models for future studies, aiming to minimize heterogeneity. Moreover, we highlight the need to expand research into less studied neurexin variants (i.e., NRXN2 and NRXN3), broadening the scope of our understanding in this field. Our observation also projects hiPSC models as potent tools for bridging research gaps, promoting translational research, and fostering the development of patient-specific therapeutic interventions.
Henle fiber layer thickening and deficits in objective retinal function in participants with a history of multiple traumatic brain injuries
Authors: Stern-Green Elizabeth A. , Klimo Kelly R. , Day Elizabeth , Shelton Erica R. , Robich Matthew L. , Jordan Lisa A. , Racine Julie , VanNasdale Dean A. , McDaniel Catherine E. , Yuhas Phillip T.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

This study tested whether multiple traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) alter the structure of the Henle fiber layer (HFL) and degrade cell-specific function in the retinas of human participants.

Methods

A cohort of case participants with multiple TBIs and a cohort of pair-matched control participants were prospectively recruited. Directional optical coherence tomography and scanning laser polarimetry measured HFL thickness and phase retardation, respectively. Full-field flash electroretinography (fERG) assessed retinal function under light-adapted (LA) 3.0, LA 30 Hz, dark-adapted (DA) 0.01, DA 3.0, and DA 10 conditions. Retinal imaging and fERG outcomes were averaged between both eyes, and paired t-tests or Wilcoxon signed-rank tests analyzed inter-cohort differences.

Results

Global HFL thickness was significantly (p = 0.02) greater in cases (8.4 ± 0.9 pixels) than in controls (7.7 ± 1.1 pixels). There was no statistically significant difference (p = 0.91) between the cohorts for global HFL phase retardation. For fERG, LA 3.0 a-wave amplitude was significantly reduced (p = 0.02) in cases (23.5 ± 4.2 μV) compared to controls (29.0 ± 8.0 μV). There were no other statistically significant fERG outcomes between the cohorts.

Discussion

In summary, the HFL thickens after multiple TBIs, but phase retardation remains unaltered in the macula. Multiple TBIs may also impair retinal function, indicated by a reduction in a-wave amplitude. These results support the potential of the retina as a site to detect TBI-associated pathology.
Rapid outpatient transient ischemic attack clinic and stroke service activity during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: a multicenter time series analysis
Authors: Lim Andy , Rothwell Peter M. , Li Linxin , Coutts Shelagh B. , Hill Michael D. , Guarino Maria , Barone Valentina , Rondelli Francesca , Kleinig Timothy , Cornell-Farrow Reid , Krause Martin , Wronski Miriam , Singhal Shaloo , Ma Henry , Phan Thanh G.
Published: February 2024

Background and aim

Rapid outpatient evaluation and treatment of TIA in structured clinics have been shown to reduce stroke recurrence. It is unclear whether short-term downtrends in TIA incidence and admissions have had enduring impact on TIA clinic activity. This study aims to measure the impact of the pandemic on hospitals with rapid TIA clinics.

Methods

Relevant services were identified by literature search and contacted. Three years of monthly data were requested – a baseline pre-COVID period (April 2018 to March 2020) and an intra-COVID period (April 2020 to March 2021). TIA presentations, ischemic stroke presentations, and reperfusion trends inclusive of IV thrombolysis (IVT) and endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) were recorded. Pandemic impact was measured with interrupted time series analysis, a segmented regression approach to test an effect of an intervention on a time-dependent outcome using a defined impact model.

Results

Six centers provided data for a total of 6,231 TIA and 13,191 ischemic stroke presentations from Australia (52.1%), Canada (35.0%), Italy (7.6%), and England (5.4%). TIA clinic volumes remained constant during the pandemic (2.9, 95% CI –1.8 to 7.6, p = 0.24), as did ischemic stroke (2.9, 95% CI –7.8 to 1.9, p = 0.25), IVT (−14.3, 95% CI −36.7, 6.1, p < 0.01), and EVT (0, 95% CI –16.9 to 16.9, p = 0.98) counts. Proportion of ischemic strokes requiring IVT decreased from 13.2 to 11.4% (p < 0.05), but those requiring EVT did not change (16.0 to 16.7%, p = 0.33).

Conclusion

This suggests that the pandemic has not had an enduring effect on TIA clinic or stroke service activity for these centers. Furthermore, the disproportionate decrease in IVT suggests that patients may be presenting outside the IVT window during the pandemic – delays in seeking treatment in this group could be the target for public health intervention.
Gene-dosage- and sex-dependent differences in the prodromal-Like phase of the F344tgHD rat model for Huntington disease
Authors: Ratz-Wirsching Veronika , Habermeyer Johanna , Moceri Sandra , Harrer Julia , Schmitz Christoph , von Hörsten Stephan
Published: February 2024

In Huntington disease (HD) the prodromal phase has been increasingly investigated and is currently in focus for early interventional treatments. Also, the influence of sex on disease progression and severity in patients is under discussion, as a sex-specific impact has been reported in transgenic rodent models for HD. To this end, we have been studying these aspects in Sprague Dawley rats transgenic for HD. Here, we took up on the congenic F344tgHD rat model, expressing a fragmented Htt construct with 51 CAG repeats on an inbred F344 rat background and characterized potential sexual dimorphism and gene-dosage effects in rats during the pre-symptomatic phase (1–8 months of age). Our study comprises a longitudinal phenotyping of motor function, emotion and sensorimotor gating, as well as screening of metabolic parameters with classical and automated assays in combination with investigation of molecular HD hallmarks (striatal cell number and volume estimation, appearance of HTT aggregates). Differences between sexes became apparent during middle age, particularly in the motor and sensorimotor domains. Female individuals were generally more active, demonstrated different gait characteristics than males and less anxiolytic-like behavior. Alterations in both the time course and affected behavioral domains varied between male and female F344tgHD rats. First subtle behavioral anomalies were detected in transgenic F344tgHD rats prior to striatal MSN cell loss, revealing a prodromal-like phase in this model. Our findings demonstrate that the congenic F344tgHD rat model shows high face-validity, closely resembling the human disease’s temporal progression, while having a relatively low number of CAG repeats, a slowly progressing pathology with a prodromal-like phase and a comparatively subtle phenotype. By differentiating the sexes regarding HD-related changes and characterizing the prodromal-like phase in this model, these findings provide a foundation for future treatment studies.
Electrical and chemical modulation of homogeneous and heterogeneous human-iPSCs-derived neuronal networks on high density arrays
Authors: Parodi Giulia , Zanini Giorgia , Chiappalone Michela , Martinoia Sergio
Published: February 2024

The delicate “Excitatory/Inhibitory balance” between neurons holds significance in neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental diseases. With the ultimate goal of creating a faithful in vitro model of the human brain, in this study, we investigated the critical factor of heterogeneity, focusing on the interplay between excitatory glutamatergic (E) and inhibitory GABAergic (I) neurons in neural networks. We used high-density Micro-Electrode Arrays (MEA) with 2304 recording electrodes to investigate two neuronal culture configurations: 100% glutamatergic (100E) and 75% glutamatergic / 25% GABAergic (75E25I) neurons. This allowed us to comprehensively characterize the spontaneous electrophysiological activity exhibited by mature cultures at 56 Days in vitro, a time point in which the GABA shift has already occurred. We explored the impact of heterogeneity also through electrical stimulation, revealing that the 100E configuration responded reliably, while the 75E25I required more parameter tuning for improved responses. Chemical stimulation with BIC showed an increase in terms of firing and bursting activity only in the 75E25I condition, while APV and CNQX induced significant alterations on both dynamics and functional connectivity. Our findings advance understanding of diverse neuron interactions and their role in network activity, offering insights for potential therapeutic interventions in neurological conditions. Overall, this work contributes to the development of a valuable human-based in vitro system for studying physiological and pathological conditions, emphasizing the pivotal role of neuron diversity in neural network dynamics.
Public acceptance of using artificial intelligence-assisted weight management apps in high-income southeast Asian adults with overweight and obesity: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Chew Han Shi Jocelyn , Achananuparp Palakorn , Dalakoti Mayank , Chew Nicholas W. S. , Chin Yip Han , Gao Yujia , So Bok Yan Jimmy , Shabbir Asim , Peng Lim Ee , Ngiam Kee Yuan
Published: February 2024

Introduction

With in increase in interest to incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) into weight management programs, we aimed to examine user perceptions of AI-based mobile apps for weight management in adults with overweight and obesity.

Methods

280 participants were recruited between May and November 2022. Participants completed a questionnaire on sociodemographic profiles, Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT2), and Self-Regulation of Eating Behavior Questionnaire. Structural equation modeling was performed using R. Model fit was tested using maximum-likelihood generalized unweighted least squares. Associations between influencing factors were analyzed using correlation and linear regression.

Results

271 participant responses were analyzed, representing participants with a mean age of 31.56 ± 10.75 years, median (interquartile range) BMI, and waist circumference of 27.2 kg/m2 (24.2–28.4 kg/m2) and 86.4 (80.0–94.0) cm, respectively. In total, 188 (69.4%) participants intended to use AI-assisted weight loss apps. UTAUT2 explained 63.3% of the variance in our intention of the sample to use AI-assisted weight management apps with satisfactory model fit: CMIN/df = 1.932, GFI = 0.966, AGFI = 0.954, NFI = 0.909, CFI = 0.954, RMSEA = 0.059, SRMR = 0.050. Only performance expectancy, hedonic motivation, and the habit of using AI-assisted apps were significant predictors of intention. Comparison with existing literature revealed vast variabilities in the determinants of AI- and non-AI weight loss app acceptability in adults with and without overweight and obesity. UTAUT2 produced a good fit in explaining the acceptability of AI-assisted apps among a multi-ethnic, developed, southeast Asian sample with overweight and obesity.

Conclusion

UTAUT2 model is recommended to guide the development of AI-assisted weight management apps among people with overweight and obesity.
Caregiver use of MUAC tapes in South Sudan: a three-group prospective comparison
Authors: Doocy Shannon , Ismail Sule , Lyles Emily , Altare Chiara , Bauler Sarah , Obali Francis , Atem Daniel , Leidman Eva ,   The South Sudan MUAC Study Team
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Nutrition program modifications occurred globally in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Within community management of acute malnutrition (CMAM), community screenings for acute malnutrition were replaced by caregivers monitoring child mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), but questions remain about different MUAC tapes’ performance and acceptability for caregiver use.

Methods

The study was conducted in Central Equatoria and Warrap States, South Sudan, between March 2022 and January 2023. A three-group prospective non-randomized design was used to compare the performance of three MUAC tapes (UNICEF 2009, UNICEF 2020, and GOAL MAMI) used by caregivers. The primary outcome was the false negative rate (i.e., the proportion of children not identified as wasted by the caregiver but classified as wasted by enumerators). Caregivers with children aged 5–53 months were assigned to and trained on the use of 1 of the 3 tapes and followed for 8 months, including three monitoring visits and baseline/endline surveys.

Results

Of the 2,893 enrolled children, 2,401 (83.0%) completed baseline, endline, and two or more monitoring visits. Only 3.7% of children were identified as wasted by caregivers and 3.8% by study team measurement. Cumulative measurement agreement between caregivers and enumerators was similar by tape. False negative and false positive rates were both <0.5% overall and similar among the tapes. There were differences in training needs and durability between the tapes, but all three were acceptable and performed equally well.

Discussion

Caregiver measurement of child MUAC is feasible in South Sudan. The three MUAC tapes were acceptable, and caregivers could measure accurately with minimal support. All tapes performed similarly and are appropriate for use in Family MUAC programs in South Sudan. There were indications that the UNICEF 2020 tape may be less durable; the GOAL MAMI tape has the added benefit of being suitable for assessments of infants <6 months of age.
High replacement of soybean meal by different types of rapeseed meal is detrimental to rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) growth, antioxidant capacity, non-specific immunity and Aeromonas hydrophila tolerance
Authors: Jiang Wen , Wang Hengzhi , Zhang Lu , Mi Haifeng , Deng Junming
Published: February 2024

A 12-week feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of replacing soybean meal with different types of rapeseed meal (RSM; Chinese 95-type (oil press model) rapeseed meal [C95RM], Chinese 200-type rapeseed meal [C200RM], cold pressed rapeseed cake [CPRC], Indian rapeseed meal [IRM] and Canadian rapeseed meal [CRM]) on growth, antioxidant capacity, non-specific immunity and Aeromonas hydrophila infection tolerance in 990 fingering (average weight 12.77 ± 0.01 g) rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). A basal diet was prepared using fishmeal and soybean meal as the main protein sources, the other 10 diets were formulated with five types of RSM at 20% (C95RM20, C200RM20, CPRC20, IRM20, CRM20) or 35% (C95RM35, C200RM35, CPRC35, IRM35, CRM35) inclusion levels to replace iso-nitrogenous soybean meal. Regardless of the RSM source, dietary inclusion of 20% RSM significantly reduced the weight gain rate (WGR) and digestive enzymes activities (except C200RM20) of fish, but increased the blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA) content (except CRM20). Fish fed with CPRC20 and IRM20 exhibited relatively higher plasma cortisol and MDA content, but lower content/activities of triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) in plasma, lysozyme (LZM) and complement 3 (C3) in serum, catalase (CAT) in liver, and respiratory burst activity (RBA) of head kidney macrophages. The intestinal and hepatic tissues fed with 20% RSM were damaged to some extent, with the CPRC20 and IRM20 groups being the most severely affected. Regardless of the RSM source, dietary inclusion of 35% RSM significantly decreased WGR and digestive enzymes activities, but significantly increased plasma BUN and MDA content. The fish fed with CPRC35 and IRM35 exhibited relatively higher plasma cortisol, MDA, serum triglyceride, BUN content, but lower content/activities of T3, T4, C3, and LZM in serum, CAT, peroxidase and GPx in plasma, CAT in liver, RBA and phagocytic activity of head kidney macrophage. The hepatic and intestinal tissues damage was the worst in the IRM35 group among the 35% RSM inclusion groups. These results indicate that including ≥20% RSM in the diet, regardless of the source, reduced the growth, antioxidant capacity, immunity, and survival to Aeromonas hydrophila infection in rainbow trout.
Transcatheter arterial chemoembolization of apatinib and camrelizumab (SHR1210) against liver metastasis from hepatic neuroendocrine tumor: a case report
Authors: Qi Ruobing , Yang Wenhua , Zhu Sixian , Mao Jie , Yang Bei , Xu Anhui , Fu Qiang
Published: February 2024

In this case report, we present the case of a 46-year-old woman with a hepatic neuroendocrine tumor (NET G2)-induced liver metastases. Initially, the left lateral lobectomy of the liver was performed. The post-operative pathological examination revealed NET G2, leading to the post-operative recovery with a general review. Further, the re-examination of liver magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed post-operative changes in the tumor of the left lateral lobe, with multiple liver masses and possible metastasis. Thus, the liver interventional therapy and apatinib-based targeted therapy based on the “camrelizumab + apatinib” regimen were performed, respectively. The 20-month follow-up indicated a slightly increased hepatic hilum and retroperitoneal lymph nodes, accompanied by hand-foot syndrome. Eventually, the overall condition continued to relieve, indicating that the combined treatment could substantially improve the NET G2 conditions-associated liver metastasis.
Metabolomic biomarkers in liquid biopsy: accurate cancer diagnosis and prognosis monitoring
Authors: Wang Wenqian , Zhen Shanshan , Ping Yu , Wang Liping , Zhang Yi
Published: February 2024

Liquid biopsy, a novel detection method, has recently become an active research area in clinical cancer owing to its unique advantages. Studies on circulating free DNA, circulating tumor cells, and exosomes obtained by liquid biopsy have shown great advances and they have entered clinical practice as new cancer biomarkers. The metabolism of the body is dynamic as cancer originates and progresses. Metabolic abnormalities caused by cancer can be detected in the blood, sputum, urine, and other biological fluids via systemic or local circulation. A considerable number of recent studies have focused on the roles of metabolic molecules in cancer. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of metabolic markers from various biological fluids in the latest clinical studies, which may contribute to cancer screening and diagnosis, differentiation of cancer typing, grading and staging, and prediction of therapeutic response and prognosis.
Immunotherapy utilization in stage IIIA melanoma: less may be more
Authors: Frey Alexander E. , Kerekes Daniel M. , Khan Sajid A. , Tran Thuy T. , Kluger Harriet M. , Clune James E. , Ariyan Stephan , Sznol Mario , Ishizuka Jeffrey J. , Olino Kelly L.
Published: February 2024

Background

Immunotherapy agents are approved for adjuvant treatment of stage III melanoma; however, evidence for survival benefit in early stage III disease is lacking. Current guidelines for adjuvant immunotherapy utilization in stage IIIA rely on clinician judgment, creating an opportunity for significant variation in prescribing patterns. This study aimed to characterize current immunotherapy practice variations and to compare patient outcomes for different prescribing practices in stage IIIA melanoma.

Study design

Patients with melanoma diagnosed from 2015-2019 that met American Joint Committee on Cancer 8th edition criteria for stage IIIA and underwent resection were identified in the National Cancer Database. Multiple imputation by chained equations replaced missing values. Factors associated with receipt of adjuvant immunotherapy were identified. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression compared overall survival across groups.

Results

Of 4,432 patients included in the study, 34% received adjuvant immunotherapy. Patients had lower risk-adjusted odds of receiving immunotherapy if they were treated at an academic center (OR=0.48, 95%CI=0.33-0.72, p<0.001 vs. community facility) or at a high-volume center (OR=0.69, 0.56-0.84, p<0.001 vs. low-volume). Immunotherapy receipt was not associated with risk-adjusted survival (p=0.095). Moreover, patients treated at high-volume centers experienced longer overall risk-adjusted survival than those treated at low-volume centers (HR=0.52, 0.29-0.93, p=0.030). Risk-adjusted survival trended toward being longer at academic centers than at community centers, but the difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusion

Academic and high-volume centers utilize significantly less adjuvant immunotherapy in stage IIIA melanoma than community and low-volume centers without compromise in overall survival. These findings suggest that this population may benefit from more judicious immunotherapy utilization.
Case Report: Transcatheter interventional procedure to innominate vein turn-down procedure for failing fontan circulation
Authors: Schaffner Damien , Perez Maria-Helena , Duran Rafael , Pretre René , Di Bernardo Stefano
Published: February 2024

Fontan physiology creates a chronic state of decreased cardiac output and systemic venous congestion, leading to liver cirrhosis/malignancy, protein-losing enteropathy, chylothorax, or plastic bronchitis. Creating a fenestration improves cardiac output and relieves some venous congestion. The anatomic connection of the thoracic duct to the subclavian-jugular vein junction exposes the lymphatic system to systemic venous hypertension and could induce plastic bronchitis. To address this complication, two techniques have been developed. A surgical method that decompresses the thoracic duct by diverting the innominate vein to the atrium, and a percutaneous endovascular procedure that uses a covered stent to create an extravascular connection between the innominate vein and the left atrium. We report a novel variant transcatheter intervention of the innominate vein turn-down procedure without creating an extravascular connection in a 39-month-old patient with failing Fontan circulation complicated by plastic bronchitis and a 2-year post-intervention follow-up.
Integrating fecal metabolomics and intestinal microbiota to study the mechanism of cannabidiol in the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Sun Mengdi , Zhang Feiyu , Lu Fang , Yu Donghua , Wang Yu , Chen Pingping , Liu Shumin
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic interstitial lung disease characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix. Cannabidiol, a natural component extracted from plant cannabis, has been shown to have therapeutic effects on lung diseases, but its exact mechanism of action is unknown, hindering its therapeutic effectiveness.

Methods: To establish a pulmonary fibrosis model, combined with UPLC-Q-TOF/MS metabolomics and 16S rDNA sequencing, to explore cannabidiol’s mechanism in treating pulmonary fibrosis. The rats were randomly divided into the control group, pulmonary fibrosis model group, prednisone treatment group, and cannabidiol low, medium, and high dose groups. The expression levels of HYP, SOD, and MDA in lung tissue and the expression levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in serum were detected. Intestinal microbiota was detected using UPLC-QTOF/MS analysis of metabolomic properties and 16S rDNA sequencing.

Results: Pathological studies and biochemical indexes showed that cannabidiol treatment could significantly alleviate IPF symptoms, significantly reduce the levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, MDA, and HYP, and increase the expression level of SOD (p < 0.05). CBD-H can regulate Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group, Pseudomonas, Clostridia_UCG-014, Collinsella, Prevotella, [Eubacterium]_coprostanoligenes_group, Fusobacterium, Ruminococcus, and Streptococcus, it can restore intestinal microbiota function and reverse fecal metabolism trend. It also plays the role of fibrosis through the metabolism of linoleic acid, glycerol, linolenic acid, and sphingolipid.

Discussion: Cannabidiol reverses intestinal microbiota imbalance and attenuates pulmonary fibrosis in rats through anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-fibrotic effects. This study lays the foundation for future research on the pathological mechanisms of IPF and the development of new drug candidates.
A global crisis manager during the COVID-19 pandemic? The OECD and health governance
Authors: Meier Sooahn , Martens Kerstin
Published: February 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has triggered turbulent times across the globe, reminding us of the highly multidimensional and interdependent nature of today's world. Next to diverging national attempts to constrain the spread of the virus, numerous international organizations worked intensely to minimize the impacts of the disease on a regional or/and global scale. Albeit not considered a conventional agency responsible for global infectious diseases, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has surprisingly been one of the most proactive IOs in the pandemic response. In this context, this article examines to what extent the OECD's COVID-19 pandemic response adheres to the role of a global crisis manager. By adapting the theoretical concepts of crisis leadership, we explore the extent of sense-making, decision-making, and learning capacities of the OECD during the pandemic, upon which we draw the organization's position-making. Based on expert interviews and document analysis, this article illustrates that the OECD's concerns regarding the pandemic's severe effects across socioeconomic sectors focused exclusively on its member states. This sense-making enabled prompt and multilayered top-down as well as bottom-up decision-making to provide member states with policy options as solutions to the new challenges. However, the OECD's engagement during the crisis was proactive only to the extent that several limitations allowed, such as resource inflexibility and internal dynamics between the Secretariat and member states. In conclusion, we argue that the OECD did not present itself to be a global crisis manager during the COVID-19 pandemic. Rather, the IO's responses consolidated its position-making as a policy advisor for member states.
Neural manifestation of L2 novel concept acquisition from multi-contexts via both episodic memory and semantic memory systems
Authors: Xu Shuang , Wang Hailing , Li Shouxin , Ouyang Guang
Published: February 2024

This study aims to examine the process of L2 novel word learning through the combination of episodic and semantic memory, and how the process differs between the formation of thematic and taxonomic relations. The major approach adopted was observing the neural effects of word learning, which is manifested in the N400 from event-related potentials (ERPs). Eighty-eight participants were recruited for the experiment. In the learning session, L2 contextual discourses related to novel words were learned by participants. In the testing session, discourses embedded with incongruous and congruous novel words in the final position were used for participants to judge the congruency which affected the N400 neural activity. The results showed that both recurrent and new-theme discourses elicited significant N400 effects, while taxonomic sentences did not. These results confirmed the formation of episodic and semantic memory during L2 new word learning, in which semantic memory was mainly supported by thematic relations.
Music performance as knowledge acquisition: a review and preliminary conceptual framework
Authors: Reybrouck Mark , Schiavio Andrea
Published: February 2024

To what extent does playing a musical instrument contribute to an individual’s construction of knowledge? This paper aims to address this question by examining music performance from an embodied perspective and offering a narrative-style review of the main literature on the topic. Drawing from both older theoretical frameworks on motor learning and more recent theories on sensorimotor coupling and integration, this paper seeks to challenge and juxtapose established ideas with contemporary views inspired by recent work on embodied cognitive science. By doing so we advocate a centripetal approach to music performance, contrasting the prevalent centrifugal perspective: the sounds produced during performance not only originate from bodily action (centrifugal), but also cyclically return to it (centripetal). This perspective suggests that playing music involves a dynamic integration of both external and internal factors, transcending mere output-oriented actions and revealing music performance as a form of knowledge acquisition based on real-time sensorimotor experience.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on behavioral changes in healthcare workers in Italy
Authors: Sansone Vincenza , Miraglia del Giudice Grazia , Della Polla Giorgia , Angelillo Italo Francesco ,   The Collaborative Working Group
Published: February 2024

Introduction

During the COVID-19 pandemic, adherence to wearing face mask and washing hands procedures and achieving high COVID-19 vaccine coverage among healthcare workers (HCWs) were essential to minimize morbidity and possible death and limit the transmission of the virus. The objectives of the cross-sectional survey were to explore the influence of COVID-19 on the use of preventive measures and vaccination willingness among HCWs in the southern part of Italy and the associated factors.

Methods

The survey was carried out from 15 June 2023 to 15 July 2023 among 521 HCWs who worked in three randomly selected public hospitals. All data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire.

Results

HCWs had a positive change in the use of preventive measures if they did not often/always use them before the pandemic, but they are using in the current epidemiologic context and they were willing to use in a future epidemic situation. A positive change in the adherence to face mask-wearing (24.6%) was more likely among those with at least 5 years of university degree, nurses/midwives, and who had worked in COVID-19 wards. A positive change in alcohol-based hand rubbing (3.1%) was more likely in HCWs in Emergency/Critical/Infectious Diseases wards compared with medical wards. HCWs who were more likely to believe that the COVID-19 vaccine should be mandatory for them (58.1%) had at least 5 years of university degree, in Emergency/Critical/Infectious Diseases wards compared with surgical and medical wards, had received more than three doses of this vaccine, were more concerned to get infected during their activity, and had received information from scientific journals. HCWs more willing to receive the COVID-19 vaccine every year (39.8%) were males, physicians, those in Emergency/Critical/Infectious Diseases wards compared with medical wards, who had received more than three doses of this vaccine, who believed that this vaccine should be mandatory for HCWs, and who needed additional information.

Discussion

The survey showed that the COVID-19 pandemic had an impact on the use of preventive measures among HCWs, not necessarily for the improvement or increase. Educational messages on the importance of these measures regarding the promotion and recommendation of the vaccine need to be investigated and applied among HCWs in order to reduce vaccination gaps and the spread of the infection.
Evaluation of the astrometric capability of Multi-Channel Imager and simulated calculation of proper motion of M31
Authors: Fang Wenfeng , Yu Yong , Peng Xiyan , Yan Zhaojun , Hao Yanzhen , Shan Huanyuan , Qi Zhaoxiang , Liao Shilong , Tang Zhenghong , Wu Qiqi , Fu Zhensen
Published: February 2024

Introduction: The Multi-Channel Imager (MCI), one of the back-end modules of the future China Space Station Telescope (CSST), is designed for high-precision spacebased astronomical observations. This paper evaluates the astrometric capability of the MCI based on simulated observational images and Gaia data: the M31 galaxy is selected as a representative case to validate the astrometric capability by calculating the proper motions (PMs) of the M31 member stars.

Method: We analyze the stellar centroids of the simulated images in the R, I and G bands, positional uncertainty of 2.5 mas for brighter foreground reference stars from the Gaia DR3 catalog and of 7.5 mas for the fainter M31 member stars, are adopted respectively. The theoretical PMs are generated from the adopted velocity field model, rotation curve, and stellar surface density profile. And the simulated observed PMs are generated from the aforementioned position uncertainties and theoretical PMs.

Result: We conclude that the precision of the MCI derived PMs strongly depends on the number of astrometric epochs per year. Specifically, uncertainty of 10 μas/yr is achievable with 10 epochs per year, and of 5 μas/yr with 50 epochs ignoring possible systematic effects. And symmetrically distributed observed fields yield better M31 kinematic parameters.

Discussion: Unknown systematic errors, space environment effects on detectors, dithering strategies, and observation schedules can affect the PMs of M31, the above issues need further analysis and validation in future work.
Globalization and food security in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Shang Yuxiao , Lv Yeming , Chen Zhenghui , Bassey Rowland , Aderemi Timothy A. , Enilolobo Oluwafemi
Published: February 2024

The research aimed to assess the impact of globalization and innovation on food security in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) between 2001 and 2021. The study utilized secondary data from the World Development Indicators to analyze the relationship. Food security was measured in terms of accessibility and availability, represented by the “Food Production Index (2014–2016 = 100)” and “Gross Domestic Product per Capita, PPP, Dissemination (constant 2017 international $)” respectively. The research employed a two-step System Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) to evaluate the data. The results indicated that globalization showed a direct and statistically insignificant influence on food security availability, but it had a negative and significant effect on food security accessibility. On the other hand, innovation had a direct but statistically insignificant effect on food security availability, while it had a positive and significant impact on food security accessibility. The interaction between globalization and innovation had an indirect but significant effect on food security availability and a direct and significant effect on food security accessibility. Additionally, the study found that arable land and population growth significantly influenced the availability aspect of food security, while arable land indirectly affected the accessibility aspect. Population had a direct but statistically insignificant effect on the accessibility measure of food security. Based on these findings, the study recommends that the governments of SSA countries and other stakeholders should adopt and operate integrated policy approaches that captures the diverse effects that globalization has on food security.
Effect of the gellan-based edible coating enriched with oregano essential oil on the preservation of the ‘Tardivo di Ciaculli’ mandarin (Citrus reticulata Blanco cv. Tardivo di Ciaculli)
Authors: Liguori Giorgia , Greco Giuseppe , Salsi Giulia , Garofalo Giuliana , Gaglio Raimondo , Barbera Marcella , Greco Carlo , Orlando Santo , Fascella Giancarlo , Mammano Michele Massimo
Published: February 2024

Mandarin, a globally recognized fruit esteemed for its nutritional content and bioactive compounds, as well as aromatic qualities, faces the critical challenge of post-harvest shelf life impacting its marketability and appeal to consumers. This study aims to assess the efficacy of edible coatings in preserving “Tardivo di Ciaculli” mandarin (Citrus reticulata Blanco cv. Tardivo di Ciaculli). Two distinct edible coating formulations, denoted as EC1(comprising gellan gum, glycerol, calcium chloride, and distilled water) and EC2 (comprising gellan gum, glycerol, calcium chloride, distilled water, and 2% oregano essential oil), were subjected to comparative analysis against control samples (CTR). In the experimental trial, mandarin fruits were immersed in the respective edible coating solutions for approximately 5 min and promptly stored at 6 ± 1°C. Qualitative, nutraceutical, microbiological, and sensory analyses were conducted throughout the cold storage period (7, 14, and 24 days at 6 ± 1°C) and during three distinct shelf-life phases (I shelf-life: 7 days at 6 ± 1°C plus 7 days at 15 ± 1°C; II shelf-life: 14 days at 6 ± 1°C plus 7 days at 15 ± 1°C; III shelf-life: 24 days at 6 ± 1°C plus 7 days at 15 ± 1°C). Chemical analysis of the oregano essential oil in EC2 revealed the presence of 27 compounds, with carvacrol being the predominant chemical, constituting 83.42% of the total oil. The findings indicate that the application of edible coatings effectively preserved the quality parameters of mandarin fruits, minimizing weight loss and water loss. Notably, the microbiological analysis, using a culture-dependent approach, demonstrated that EC2, incorporating oregano essential oil, exhibited the capability to diminish the viability of molds throughout the entire study duration, thereby extending the shelf life of mandarin fruits.