bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Copper ions inhibit Streptococcus mutans–Veillonella parvula dual biofilm by activating Streptococcus mutans reactive nitrogen species
Authors: Yun Zhang , Xianghong Liu , Qianhua Gao , Qin Du
Published: January 2023

Background

To investigate the inhibition mechanism of copper ions onStreptococcus mutans–Veillonella parvuladual biofilm.

Methods

S. mutans–V. parvuladual biofilm was constructed and copper ions were added at different concentrations. After the biofilm was collected, RNA-seq and qRT-PCR were then performed to get gene information.

Results

The coculture ofS. mutansandV. parvulaformed a significantly better dual biofilm of larger biomass thanS. mutansmono biofilm. And copper ions showed a more significant inhibitory effect onS. mutans–V. parvuladual biofilm than onS. mutansmono biofilm when copper ions concentration reached 100 µM, and copper ions showed a decreased inhibitory effect onS. gordonii–V. parvuladual biofilm andS. sanguis–V.parvuladual biofilm than on the two mono biofilms as the concentration of copper ions increased. And common trace elements such as iron, magnesium, and zinc showed no inhibitory effect difference onS. mutans–V. parvuladual biofilm. The RNA-seq results showed a significant difference in the expression of a new ABC transporterSMU_651c,SMU_652c,SMU_653c, andS. mutanscopper chaperonecopYAZ.SMU_651c,SMU_652c, andSMU_653cwere predicted to function as nitrite/nitrate transporter-related proteins, which suggested the specific inhibition of copper ions onS. mutans–V. parvuladual biofilm may be caused by the activation ofS. mutansreactive nitrogen species.

Conclusions

Streptococcus mutansandVeillonella parvulaare symbiotic, forming a dual biofilm of larger biomass to better resist the external antibacterial substances, which may increase the virulence ofS. mutans. While common trace elements such as iron, magnesium, and zinc showed no specific inhibitory effect onS. mutans–V. parvuladual biofilm, copper ion had a unique inhibitory effect onS. mutans–V. parvuladual biofilm which may be caused by activatingS. mutansRNS when copper ions concentration reached 250 µM.
Clinical evaluation of marginal fit of uncemented CAD-CAM monolithic zirconia three-unit restorations in anterior areas, using scannable and conventional polyvinyl siloxane impression materials
Authors: Kalantari Mohammad Hassan , Abbasi Benika , Giti Rashin , Rastegar Zahra , Tavanafar Saeid , Shahsavari-pour Sheila
Published: January 2023

Background

The accuracy of impression techniques determines the marginal fit of fixed prostheses. Marginal accuracy plays a main role in the success and failure of treatments. This in-vivo study evaluated the marginal fit of anterior three-unit monolithic zirconia fixed partial dentures (FPDs) using conventional and scannable polyvinyl siloxane impression materials.

Methods

Ten patients were selected to replace the lateral teeth with a three-unit monolithic zirconia bridge. For each patient, in the first group, an impression was made with a two-step putty-wash technique using scannable polyvinyl siloxane material (BONASCAN; DMP, Greece). In the identical session, as the second group, an impression of conventional putty-wash polyvinyl siloxane was taken (BONASIL A+ Putty; DMP, Greece). The marginal discrepancy was measured through the replicas, which were cut perpendicularly within the buccolingual and mesiodistal directions. An Independent t-test was employed for data analyses (P < 0.05).

Results

The marginal discrepancy in a conventional method for central abutment in mid-buccal, mid-lingual, mid-mesial, and mid-distal was higher than in the scannable method but it was not significant (P > 0.05). Also, the marginal discrepancy for canine abutment in the conventional method was higher than in the scannable method, but it was not significant, either (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

FPDs fabricated from both scannable and conventional impression materials were not superior to each other in marginal fit for both central and canine abutments by evaluation using the replica technique.
Potent hepatoprotective activity of common rattan (Calamus rotang L.) leaf extract and its molecular mechanism
Authors: Anwar Walaa S. , Abdel-maksoud Fatma M. , Sayed Ahmed M. , Abdel-Rahman Iman A. M. , Makboul Makboul A. , Zaher Ahmed M.
Published: January 2023

Background

Calamus rotangL. (CR) is an Indian shrub. The leaves and other organs of the plant are traditionally used in India for treatment of various diseases. The in vitro antioxidant property of the leaves extract was previously established. Thus, the current study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of CR ethyl acetate extract at a dose of 350 mg/kg on CCl4induced hepatotoxic rats through different mechanisms.

Methods

Histopathological examination of the treated rats’ group in comparison with positive and negative controls were performed. Quantitative measuring of the proinflammatory cytokines (TNF α), inflammatory regulators (Arginase, PPAR α) and the antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2 in comparison with positive and negative control groups was achieved using immunohistochemical examination. HPLC profiling of the polyphenol contents and molecular docking of the identified compounds against BH3 proapoptotic protein were correspondingly studied to evaluate the potential antiapoptotic property.

Results

The CR extract greatly protects the liver tissue through the suppression of TNF α, arginase and PPAR α induced by CCl4as well as its enhancement of the antiapoptotic Bcl-2 protein. Fourteen polyphenols of different classes were identified in CR extract and tested via molecular docking for their potential antiapoptotic activities against BH3 protein. Naringin, rutin, 7-hydroxy flavone, and ellagic acid compounds exhibit the highest affinity and potential inhibition of pro-apoptotic protein BH3 via molecular docking study.

Conclusions

The ethyl acetate fraction of the leaves ofC. rotangis rich in polyphenols that exhibited potent hepatoprotective effect on CCl4induced hepatotoxic rats through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-steatosis and antiapoptotic properties.
Objective structured clinical examination versus traditional written examinations: a prospective observational study
Authors: Lebdai Souhil , Bouvard Béatrice , Martin Ludovic , Annweiler Cédric , Lerolle Nicolas , Rineau Emmanuel
Published: January 2023

Background

Recently, Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCE) became an official evaluation modality for 6-year medical students in France. Before, standard examination modalities were: written progressive clinical cases (PCC), written critical reading of scientific articles (CRA), and internship evaluation (IE). The aim of this study was to assess the performances of 6-year medical students in their final faculty tests by comparing OSCE-exams with standard examination modalities.

Methods

This was a prospective observational study. We included all 6-year medical students in our university from 2020 to 2021. The endpoints were the scores obtained at the following final faculty tests during the 6thyear of medical studies: OSCE-training, OSCE-exams, written PCC, written CRA, and IE. All scores were compared in a paired-analysis.

Results

A total of 400 students were included in the study. No student was excluded in the final analysis. The mean scores obtained at the OSCE-exams were significantly different from those obtained at OSCE-training, PCC, CRA, and IE (12.6 ± 1.7, 11.7 ± 1.7, 13.4 ± 1.4, 13.2 ± 1.5, 14.7 ± 0.9, respectively;p < 0.001). OSCE-exams scores were moderately and significantly correlated with OSCE-training and PCC (Spearman rho coefficient = 0.4,p < 0.001); OSCE examination scores were lowly but significantly correlated with CRA and IE (Spearman rho coefficient = 0.3,p < 0.001). OSCE-scores significantly increased after an OSCE training session.

Conclusion

In our faculty, 6-year medical students obtained lower scores at OSCE exams compared to other standard evaluation modalities. The correlation was weak to moderate but significant. These results suggest that OSCE are not redundant with the other evaluation modalities. Interestingly, a single OSCE training session led to an improvement in OSCE scores underlining the importance of a specific training.
Chronic stress in solid tumor development: from mechanisms to interventions
Authors: Yan Jiajing , Chen Yibing , Luo Minhua , Hu Xinyu , Li Hongsheng , Liu Quentin , Zou Zhengzhi
Published: January 2023

Chronic stress results in disturbances of body hormones through the neuroendocrine system. Cancer patients often experience recurrent anxiety and restlessness during disease progression and treatment, which aggravates disease progression and hinders treatment effects. Recent studies have shown that chronic stress-regulated neuroendocrine systems secret hormones to activate many signaling pathways related to tumor development in tumor cells. The activated neuroendocrine system acts not only on tumor cells but also modulates the survival and metabolic changes of surrounding non-cancerous cells. Current clinical evidences also suggest that chronic stress affects the outcome of cancer treatment. However, in clinic, there is lack of effective treatment for chronic stress in cancer patients. In this review, we discuss the main mechanisms by which chronic stress regulates the tumor microenvironment, including functional regulation of tumor cells by stress hormones (stem cell-like properties, metastasis, angiogenesis, DNA damage accumulation, and apoptotic resistance), metabolic reprogramming and immune escape, and peritumor neuromodulation. Based on the current clinical treatment framework for cancer and chronic stress, we also summarize pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapeutic approaches to provide some directions for cancer therapy.
Health and healthcare equity within the Canadian cancer care sector: a rapid scoping review
Authors: Lambert Leah K. , Horrill Tara C. , Beck Scott M. , Bourgeois Amber , Browne Annette J. , Cheng Shannon , Howard A. Fuchsia , Kaur Jagbir , McKenzie Michael , Stajduhar Kelli I. , Thorne Sally
Published: January 2023

Background

Despite a publicly-funded healthcare system, alarming cancer-related health and healthcare inequities persist in Canada. However, it remains unclear how equity is being understood and taken up within the Canadian cancer context. Our objective was to identify how health and healthcare equity are being discussed as goals or aims within the cancer care sector in Canada.

Methods

A rapid scoping review was conducted; five biomedical databases, 30 multidisciplinary websites, and Google were searched. We included English-language documents published between 2008 and 2021 that discussed health or healthcare equity in the Canadian cancer context.

Results

Of 3860 identified documents, 83 were included for full-text analysis. The prevalence of published and grey equity-oriented literature has increased over time (2008-2014 [n = 20]; 2015-2021 [n = 62]). Only 25% of documents (n = 21) included a definition of health equity. Concepts such as inequity, inequality and disparity were frequently used interchangeably, resulting in conceptual muddling. Only 43% of documents (n = 36) included an explicit health equity goal. Although a suite of actions were described across the cancer control continuum to address equity goals, most were framed as recommendations rather than direct interventions.

Conclusion

Health and healthcare equity is a growing priority in the cancer care sector; however, conceptual clarity is needed to guide the development of robust equity goals, and the development of sustainable, measurable actions that redress inequities across the cancer control continuum. If we are to advance health and healthcare equity in the cancer care sector, a coordinated and integrated approach will be required to enact transformative and meaningful change.
A case report of Indium lung with progressive emphysema and fibrosis underwent lung unilateral transplantation 20 years after the end of the exposure
Authors: Inoue Chihiro , Ohkouchi Shinya , Chonan Tatsuya , Amata Atsuko , Hirama Takashi , Saito-Koyama Ryoko , Kawabata Yoshinori , Suzuki Takashi , Okada Yoshinori , Tanaka Akiyo , Kurosawa Hajime
Published: January 2023

Background

Indium lung is characterized by interstitial pneumonia and/or emphysema which occurs in indium-tin oxide (ITO) workers. Indium lung is now known to progress after stopping exposure to ITO, but the long-term influences of ITO remain unclear.

Case presentation

Forty seven years old, a never-smoker, who had been engaged in an ITO manufacturing process for 8 years. Emphysema was indicated by the medical check-up for ex-ITO workers, and he was diagnosed with indium lung. He underwent partial lung resections for pneumothorax two times, and obstructive pulmonary dysfunction had progressed through the years. He underwent right single lung transplant 20 years after ITO exposure. Pathologically, his lung showed severe distal acinar emphysema and honeycomb change. Fibrosis and destruction of the lung tissue significantly progressed compared to the previous partial resections. Scanning electron microscopy combined with energy dispersive spectroscopy revealed that the deposited particles contained indium and tin. After the transplantation, his respiratory function was improved.

Conclusions

In this case, ITO resided in the lung tissue for 20 years, and lung tissue destruction kept progressing. Careful medical follow-up is recommended for ITO-workers even if they are asymptomatic.
YOLO POD: a fast and accurate multi-task model for dense Soybean Pod counting
Authors: Xiang Shuai , Wang Siyu , Xu Mei , Wang Wenyan , Liu Weiguo
Published: January 2023

Background

The number of soybean pods is one of the most important indicators of soybean yield, pod counting is crucial for yield estimation, cultivation management, and variety breeding. Counting pods manually is slow and laborious. For crop counting, using object detection network is a common practice, but the scattered and overlapped pods make the detection and counting of the pods difficult.

Results

We propose an approach that we named YOLO POD, based on the YOLO X framework. On top of YOLO X, we added a block for predicting the number of pods, modified the loss function, thus constructing a multi-task model, and introduced the Convolutional Block Attention Module (CBAM). We achieve accurate identification and counting of pods without reducing the speed of inference. The results showed that the R2 between the number predicted by YOLO POD and the ground truth reached 0.967, which is improved by 0.049 compared to YOLO X, while the inference time only increased by 0.08 s. Moreover, MAE, MAPE, RMSE are only 4.18, 10.0%, 6.48 respectively, the deviation is very small.

Conclusions

We have achieved the first accurate counting of soybean pods and proposed a new solution for the detection and counting of dense objects.
Germline heterozygous exons 8–11 pathogenic BARD1 gene deletion reported for the first time in a family with suspicion of a hereditary colorectal cancer syndrome: more than an incidental finding?
Authors: Carrera Sergio , Rodríguez-Martínez Ana Belén , Garin Intza , Sarasola Esther , Martínez Cristina , Maortua Hiart , Callejo Almudena , Ruiz de Lobera Abigail , Muñoz Alberto , Miñambres Nagore , Jiménez-Labaig Pablo
Published: January 2023

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a highly prevalent disease in developed countries. Inherited Mendelian causes account for approximately 5% of CRC cases, with Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis being the most prevalent forms. Scientific efforts are focused on the discovery of new candidate genes associated with CRC and new associations of phenotypes with well-established cancer-related genes. BRCA1-associated ring domain (BARD1) gene deleterious germline variants are associated with a moderate increase in the relative risk of breast cancer, but their association with other neoplasms, such as CRC, remains unclear.

Case presentation

We present the case of a 49-year-old male diagnosed with rectal adenocarcinoma whose maternal family fulfilled Amsterdam clinical criteria for Lynch syndrome. Genetic test confirmed the presence in heterozygosis of a germline pathogenic deletion of exons 8–11 in BARD1 gene. The predictive genetic study of the family revealed the presence of this pathogenic variant in his deceased cancer affected relatives, confirming co-segregation of the deletion with the disease.

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first published work in which this BARD1 deletion is detected in a family with familial colorectal cancer type X (FCCTX) syndrome, in which the clinical criteria for Lynch syndrome without alteration of the DNA mismatch repair (MMR) system are fulfilled. Whether this incidental germline finding is the cause of familial colorectal aggregation remains to be elucidated in scientific forums. Patients should be carefully assessed in specific cancer genetic counseling units to account for hypothetical casual findings in other genes, in principle unrelated to the initial clinical suspicion, but with potential impact on their health.
Efficacy and safety of the novel GlyT1 inhibitor BI 425809 in Alzheimer’s dementia: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wunderlich Glen , Blahova Zuzana , Garcia Miguel , Jessen Frank
Published: January 2023

Background

This phase II proof-of-concept study assessed the efficacy and safety of BI 425809, a novel selective glycine transporter-1 inhibitor, for the treatment of cognitive impairment associated with probable Alzheimer’s disease dementia.

Methods

This 12-week, multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study randomized (1:1:1:1:1) patients with mild-to-moderate probable Alzheimer’s disease dementia to BI 425809 2, 5, 10, and 25 mg or placebo once daily. The primary efficacy endpoint was the change from baseline in Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale 11-item total score after 12 weeks of treatment. Safety was also assessed.

Results

Six hundred and ten male and female patients were randomized to BI 425809 2 mg (n = 123), 5 mg (n = 122), 10 mg (n = 122), and 25 mg (n = 123) or placebo (n = 120). Approximately 47% (n = 286) were male; the mean (standard deviation) age was 72.9 (7.7) years. Treatment compliance was above 97% for all dose groups. The Mini-Mental State Examination category on the median score was < 22 in 47% (n = 287) of patients and ≥ 22 in 53% (n = 322) of patients. No significant, non-flat dose–response relationship was detected for the primary endpoint (adjusted p-value > 0.76 for all models). BI 425809 was generally well-tolerated. Overall, 47.9% (n = 292) of patients reported at least one adverse event during the trial; the frequency of patients with investigator-defined drug-related adverse events was similar in all treatment groups, ranging from 15.4 to 19.5% across the BI 425809 treatment groups and 15.8% for placebo.

Conclusions

No clinically meaningful changes from baseline were observed following treatment with BI 425809 in patients with mild-to-moderate probable Alzheimer’s disease dementia.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02788513 (1346-0023). Registered on June 2, 2016. EU Clinical Trials Register 2015-005438-24. Registered on May 6, 2016
Identifying clinically useful biomarkers in neurodegenerative disease through a collaborative approach: the NeuroToolKit
Authors: Johnson Sterling C. , Suárez-Calvet Marc , Suridjan Ivonne , Minguillón Carolina , Gispert Juan Domingo , Jonaitis Erin , Michna Agata , Carboni Margherita , Bittner Tobias , Rabe Christina , Kollmorgen Gwendlyn , Zetterberg Henrik , Blennow Kaj
Published: January 2023

Background

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a complex and heterogeneous disease, which requires reliable biomarkers for diagnosis and monitoring disease activity. Preanalytical protocol and technical variability associated with biomarker immunoassays makes comparability of biomarker data across multiple cohorts difficult. This study aimed to compare cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarker results across independent cohorts, including participants spanning the AD continuum.

Methods

Measured on the NeuroToolKit (NTK) prototype panel of immunoassays, 12 CSF biomarkers were evaluated from three cohorts (ALFA+, Wisconsin, and Abby/Blaze). A correction factor was applied to biomarkers found to be affected by preanalytical procedures (amyloid-β1–42, amyloid-β1–40, and alpha-synuclein), and results between cohorts for each disease stage were compared. The relationship between CSF biomarker concentration and cognitive scores was evaluated.

Results

Biomarker distributions were comparable across cohorts following correction. Correlations of biomarker values were consistent across cohorts, regardless of disease stage. Disease stage differentiation was highest for neurofilament light (NfL), phosphorylated tau, and total tau, regardless of the cohort. Correlation between biomarker concentration and cognitive scores was comparable across cohorts, and strongest for NfL, chitinase-3-like protein-1 (YKL40), and glial fibrillary acidic protein.

Discussion

The precision of the NTK enables merging of biomarker datasets, after correction for preanalytical confounders. Assessment of multiple cohorts is crucial to increase power in future studies into AD pathogenesis.
Decreased ratios of matrix metalloproteinases to tissue-type inhibitors in cerebrospinal fluid in sporadic and hereditary cerebral amyloid angiopathy
Authors: Vervuurt Marc , de Kort Anna M. , Jäkel Lieke , Kersten Iris , Abdo Wilson F. , Schreuder Floris H. B. M. , Rasing Ingeborg , Terwindt Gisela M. , Wermer Marieke J. H. , Greenberg Steven M. , Klijn Catharina J. M. , Kuiperij H. Bea , Verbeek Marcel M.
Published: January 2023

Background

To evaluate the potential of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels of matrix metalloproteinases and tissue-type inhibitors (MMP; TIMP), and ratios of MMPs to TIMPs, to function as biomarkers for sporadic or hereditary cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA).

Methods

CSF concentrations of the matrix metalloproteinases MMP-2, MMP-9 and MMP-14, as well as the tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases TIMP-1, TIMP-2 and TIMP-3, were determined using immunoassays. These assays were applied to two, independent study groups of sporadic CAA (sCAA) (n = 28/43) and control subjects (n = 40/40), as well as to groups of pre-symptomatic (n = 11) and symptomatic hereditary Dutch-CAA (D-CAA) patients (n = 12), and age-matched controls (n = 22/28, respectively).

Results

In the sCAA/control cohorts, inconsistent differences were found for individual MMPs and TIMPs, but MMP-2/TIMP-2 (discovery/validation: p = 0.004; p = 0.02) and MMP-14/TIMP-2 ratios (discovery/validation: p < 0.001; p = 0.04) were consistently decreased in sCAA, compared to controls. Moreover, MMP-14 was decreased in symptomatic D-CAA (p = 0.03), compared to controls. The MMP-14/TIMP-1 (p = 0.03) and MMP-14/TIMP-2 (p = 0.04) ratios were decreased in symptomatic D-CAA compared to controls and also compared to pre-symptomatic D-CAA (p = 0.004; p = 0.005, respectively).

Conclusion

CSF MMP-2/TIMP-2 and MMP-14/TIMP-2 were consistently decreased in sCAA, compared to controls. Additionally, MMP-14/TIMP-2 levels were also decreased in symptomatic D-CAA, compared to both pre-symptomatic D-CAA and controls, and can therefore be considered a biomarker for sporadic and late-stage hereditary forms of CAA.
Altered dynamics of glymphatic flow in a mature-onset Tet-off APP mouse model of amyloidosis
Authors: Ben-Nejma Inès R. H. , Keliris Aneta J. , Vanreusel Verdi , Ponsaerts Peter , Van der Linden Annemie , Keliris Georgios A.
Published: January 2023

Background

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is an incurable neurodegenerative disorder characterised by the progressive buildup of toxic amyloid-beta (Aβ) and tau protein aggregates eventually leading to cognitive decline. Recent lines of evidence suggest that an impairment of the glymphatic system (GS), a brain waste clearance pathway, plays a key role in the pathology of AD. Moreover, a relationship between GS function and neuronal network integrity has been strongly implicated. Here, we sought to assess the efficacy of the GS in a transgenic Tet-Off APP mouse model of amyloidosis, in which the expression of mutant APP was delayed until maturity, mimicking features of late-onset AD—the most common form of dementia in humans.

Methods

To evaluate GS function, we used dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) in 14-month-old Tet-Off APP (AD) mice and aged-matched littermate controls. Brain-wide transport of the Gd-DOTA contrast agent was monitored over time after cisterna magna injection. Region-of-interest analysis and computational modelling were used to assess GS dynamics while characterisation of brain tissue abnormalities at the microscale was performed ex vivo by immunohistochemistry.

Results

We observed reduced rostral glymphatic flow and higher accumulation of the contrast agent in areas proximal to the injection side in the AD group. Clustering and subsequent computational modelling of voxel time courses revealed significantly lower influx time constants in AD relative to the controls. Ex vivo evaluation showed abundant amyloid plaque burden in the AD group coinciding with extensive astrogliosis and microgliosis. The neuroinflammatory responses were also found in plaque-devoid regions, potentially impacting brain-fluid circulation.

Conclusions

In a context resembling late-onset AD in humans, we demonstrate the disruption of glymphatic function and particularly a reduction in brain-fluid influx in the AD group. We conjecture that the hindered circulation of cerebrospinal fluid is potentially caused by wide-spread astrogliosis and amyloid-related obstruction of the normal routes of glymphatic flow resulting in redirection towards caudal regions. In sum, our study highlights the translational potential of alternative approaches, such as targeting brain-fluid circulation as potential therapeutic strategies for AD.
Dynamic single-cell RNA-seq analysis reveals distinct tumor program associated with microenvironmental remodeling and drug sensitivity in multiple myeloma
Authors: Chen Mengping , Wan Yike , Li Xin , Xiang Jing , Chen Xiaotong , Jiang Jinxing , Han Xiaofeng , Zhong Lu , Xiao Fei , Liu Jia , Huang Honghui , Li Hua , Liu Junling , Hou Jian
Published: January 2023

Background

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a hematological malignancy characterized by clonal proliferation of malignant plasma cells. Despite extensive research, molecular mechanisms in MM that drive drug sensitivity and clinic outcome remain elusive.

Results

Single-cell RNA sequencing was applied to study tumor heterogeneity and molecular dynamics in 10 MM individuals before and after 2 cycles of bortezomib–cyclophosphamide–dexamethasone (VCD) treatment, with 3 healthy volunteers as controls. We identified that unfolded protein response and metabolic-related program were decreased, whereas stress-associated and immune reactive programs were increased after 2 cycles of VCD treatment. Interestingly, low expression of the immune reactive program by tumor cells was associated with unfavorable drug response and poor survival in MM, which probably due to downregulation of MHC class I mediated antigen presentation and immune surveillance, and upregulation of markers related to immune escape. Furthermore, combined with immune cells profiling, we uncovered a link between tumor intrinsic immune reactive program and immunosuppressive phenotype in microenvironment, evidenced by exhausted states and expression of checkpoint molecules and suppressive genes in T cells, NK cells and monocytes. Notably, expression of YBX1 was associated with downregulation of immune activation signaling in myeloma and reduced immune cells infiltration, thereby contributed to poor prognosis.

Conclusions

We dissected the tumor and immune reprogramming in MM during targeted therapy at the single-cell resolution, and identified a tumor program that integrated tumoral signaling and changes in immune microenvironment, which provided insights into understanding drug sensitivity in MM.
Antioxidant capacity, flavor and physicochemical properties of FH06 functional beverage fermented by lactic acid bacteria: a promising method to improve antioxidant activity and flavor of plant functional beverage
Authors: Yan Xian-Tao , Zhang Ziqi , Wang Yubao , Zhang Wenmiao , Zhang Longfei , Liu Yang , Chen Dawei , Wang Wenqiong , Ma Wenlong , Qian Jian-Ya , Gu Ruixia
Published: January 2023

The ability of natural plants to treat chronic diseases is closely related to their antioxidant function. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) fermentation is an effective way to improve the nutritional value, biological activity and flavor of food. This study investigated the pH, titratable acidity, total polysaccharide, total flavone, total saponin, total polyphenol, and antioxidant activity of the FH06 beverage before and after probiotic fermentation. Results: After fermentation, FH06 had lower contents of total polysaccharides, total flavonoids, total saponins and total polyphenols but higher titratable acidity. The antioxidant activity was tested by total antioxidant capacity (FRAP method) and DPPH· scavenging ability. The FRAP value significantly increased after fermentation (P < 0.05), and the maximum increase was observed for Lactobacillus fermentum grx08 at 25.87%. For DPPH· scavenging ability, the value of all fermentations decreased, and L. fermentum grx08 had the smallest reduction at 2.21% (P < 0.05). The results of GC–MS and sensory analysis showed that fermentation eliminated bad flavors, such as grass, cassia and bitterness, and highlighted the fruit aroma and soft sour taste. Conclusion: The FRAP value and sensory flavor of FH06 fermentation by L. fermentum grx08 were significantly improved, indicating its great potential as a functional food with both strong antioxidant activity and good flavor.

Graphical Abstract
Intelligent generation of Peking opera facial masks with deep learning frameworks
Authors: Yan Ming , Xiong Rui , Shen Yinghua , Jin Cong , Wang Yan
Published: January 2023

The production of traditional Peking opera facial masks often relies on hand painting by experienced painters, which restricts the inheritance and development of this intangible cultural heritage. Current research mainly focuses on the digital reconstruction and storage of existing Peking opera facial masks, while high-quality facial mask generation technology is still in an infancy stage. In this paper, different deep learning frameworks are improved for learning features of Peking opera facial masks and generating new masks, which can effectively promote the creative application of Peking opera facial masks. First, using different data enhancement methods, an improved Style Generative Adversarial Network-2 (StyleGAN2) can learn implicit and explicit features of Peking opera facial masks and automatically generate new facial masks. In addition, an image translation framework for joint cross-domain communication under weak supervision is used to translate face sketches and color reference maps to an intermediate feature domain, and then synthesize new facial masks through an image generation network. The experimental results show that the generated Peking opera facial masks have good local randomness and excellent visual quality.
Adhesive hydrogels in osteoarthritis: from design to application
Authors: Duan Wang-Lin , Zhang Li-Ning , Bohara Raghvendra , Martin-Saldaña Sergio , Yang Fei , Zhao Yi-Yang , Xie Yong , Bu Ya-Zhong , Pandit Abhay
Published: January 2023

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of degenerative joint disease which affects 7% of the global population and more than 500 million people worldwide. One research frontier is the development of hydrogels for OA treatment, which operate either as functional scaffolds of tissue engineering or as delivery vehicles of functional additives. Both approaches address the big challenge: establishing stable integration of such delivery systems or implants. Adhesive hydrogels provide possible solutions to this challenge. However, few studies have described the current advances in using adhesive hydrogel for OA treatment. This review summarizes the commonly used hydrogels with their adhesion mechanisms and components. Additionally, recognizing that OA is a complex disease involving different biological mechanisms, the bioactive therapeutic strategies are also presented. By presenting the adhesive hydrogels in an interdisciplinary way, including both the fields of chemistry and biology, this review will attempt to provide a comprehensive insight for designing novel bioadhesive systems for OA therapy.
Strategic interaction between institutional investors and supervision department: a theoretical analysis of low-price collusion in SBIC
Authors: Li Xin , Chen Zhuming
Published: January 2023

We introduce evolutionary game method to analyze low-price collusion in inquiry market of Sci-Tech Innovation Board of China (SIBC) from the perspective of strategic interaction between large institutional investors (LIIs), small and medium-sized institutional investors (SMIIs), and supervision department (SD). The results show that supervision behaviors of SD, and quotation behaviors of institutional investors, are subject to supervision conditions. Under the condition that benefits of tough supervision are lower a lot than minimum benefits of light supervision (light supervision condition), SD will choose light supervision and institutional investors will turn to illegal quotation in response. Finally, a steady-state equilibrium with low-price collusion will form in SIBC’s inquiry market even with a large supervision penalty for illegal quotation. On the contrary, under the condition that benefits of tough supervision are higher a lot than maximum benefits of light supervision (tough supervision condition) and with a large penalty for illegal quotation, SD and institutional investors will choose tough supervision and legal quotation. Further numerical simulations under light supervision condition show that: (1) High-price culling rule will become a booster for low-price collusion and accelerate SMIIs’ evolutionary process to imitative quotation. (2) Blindly increasing penalties for illegal quotation or reducing the culling rate is not an appropriate approach to solve the problem of low-price collusion since it cannot shift supervision condition from light into tough and make SD supervise toughly. (3) Institutional investors’ choices of quotation strategies are more volatile and highly susceptible to supervision behaviors of SD when facing exogenous uncertainty. Therefore, the keys to solving the problem of low-price collusion are shifting supervision condition from light into tough through increasing incremental benefits of tough supervision, and providing institutional investors with a stable and predictable supervision policy. In conclusion, the creation of a fair inquiry market doesn’t only depend on restraint and punishment to institutional investors, but also requires the establishment of supervision mechanism those are compatible with market-based inquiry.
Grounding fault location method of overhead line based on dual-axis magnetic field trajectory
Authors: Wang Xiaowei , Du Huan , Gao Jie , Wei Xiangxiang , Liang Zhenfeng , Guo Liang , Liu Weibo
Published: January 2023

To address the challenges in fault location in distribution networks, the distribution of magnetic field under overhead line and its relationship with three-phase currents are explored in this paper. At the same time, considering the influence of sensor installation position, line sag and galloping on magnetic field, a grounding fault location method of an overhead line based on dual-axis magnetic field trajectory is proposed. The analytical expressions of the magnetic field on the x-axis and y-axis under the overhead line are obtained by least squares fitting. The Lissajous figure synthesized by dual-axis is then compared with the general equation of an ellipse, and the characteristic quantity expression characterizing the magnetic field trajectory structure is obtained. Finally, a fault location criterion is constructed using the difference of the characteristic quantities of the ellipses synthesized by x-axis and y-axis magnetic fields upstream and downstream of the fault point, i.e., the difference of the length of the major axis and the minor axis, and the sign for the ratio of the cosine value of the inclination angle. Compared with other location methods based on electrical quantity, the principle of this method is simpler and it can locate faults more quickly and accurately. A large number of simulation results show that the proposed method is suitable for different types of fault conditions.
Laparoscopic-assisted intraperitoneal placement of lumboperitoneal shunt in patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension
Authors: Alawamry Ahmed , Youssef Essam M. , Morsy Ahmed Ali , Ashour Hassan , Samir Mohamed A.
Published: January 2023

Background

Lumboperitoneal (LP) shunting is an effective treatment option aiming at cerebrospinal fluid diversion in cases of idiopathic intracranial hypertension. Confirming the distal end position, on the other hand, could be technically difficult, especially in obese people. With minimal invasive procedures, laparoscopic-assisted placement of the peritoneal side of the LP shunt became a valid treatment option. In this study, we aim to evaluate the operation duration, possible complications, and patient outcomes after the placement of a peritoneal catheter using the laparoscopically assisted technique.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of clinical, preoperative, and postoperative data for 18 patients diagnosed with idiopathic intracranial hypertension and undergoing LP shunt surgery using the laparoscopic-assisted technique for intraperitoneal catheter placement between 2019 and 2021 was performed.

Results

The average operating time was 93.89 min, and the average hospital stay was 2.3 days. There was no mortality among cases treated with the described technique, and no intraoperative complication occurred. Seven patients (38.9%) had LP shunt failure, with a median duration to failure of 212 days; three cases for slippage, two cases had over drainage, one case had peritoneal adhesions around the shunt tip, and one case had Arnold Chiari malformation.

Conclusions

The laparoscopic assisted technique is safe and feasible. It allowed a direct vision of the shunt tip position within the peritoneal cavity which helped in confirming position and assessing function, resulting in a superior option over classic surgical options. Short hospital stay, minimal postoperative pain, and low failure rates are the main advantages of described technique.
Metabolic and hormonal dysfunction in asymptomatic patient using selective androgen receptor modulators: a case report
Authors: Malave Brian
Published: January 2023

Background

Selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) are becoming increasingly common amongst athletes and the general population, but their side effect profile in human subjects at recreational doses is understudied.

Case presentation

A 27-year-old asymptomatic male weightlifter presented for an annual physical exam and was coincidentally found to have an abnormal lipid panel, which the patient believed to be due to recreational SARMs (LGD-4033 and S-23) usage. Further work-up revealed elevated liver enzymes suggestive of hepatocellular injury and suppression of the pituitary–gonadal axis. Lipids, hepatic function, and hormones returned to baseline after cessation of SARMs.

Conclusions

This is the first case report on how SARMs may impact LDL, cause hepatocellular rather than cholestatic liver injury, and alter health markers despite complete lack of symptoms. It is also the first case report on the potential negative effects of the SARM S-23.
An Arabic version of Barkley Deficits in Executive Functioning Scale - Children and Adolescents (BDEFS-CA): translation and validation study
Authors: Hamza Aya Maged , Ghobashy Soha A. , Abou El Wafa Heba E.
Published: January 2023

Background

While executive dysfunctions are present abundantly in children with psychiatric and developmental disorders, unfortunately, it is significantly underdiagnosed in Arab countries due to the lack of Arabic executive functions diagnostic scales. To our knowledge, there is no available Arabic rating scale for assessing executive functions in children and adolescents till this moment except for BRIEF-2 which excluded anyone with a mental, learning, developmental, or medical disorder constituting unfortunately 25% of the general population. Our paper describes the translation and validation of an Arabic version of the Barkley Deficits in Executive Functioning Scale - Children and Adolescents (BDEFS-CA) (long form). The translation was done using the forward-backward method and the study population for validation included 60 parents of children of age 6–13 years.

Results

Reliability of the scale domains was evident in Arabic showing high internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha from 0.93 to 0.97 scores over the five domains). These values were close to the original English version which is 0.95 to 0.97.

Conclusion

The reliability of the Arabic version of BDEFS-CA was adequate making it a valuable instrument for executive function assessment in Arabic children and adolescents.
Determination of intensity and spread of light to the surrounding in conventional phototherapy and comparison with novel converging photo unit — an observational study
Authors: Krishnegowda Sushma , Thandaveshwara Deepti , Doreswamy Srinivasa Murthy
Published: January 2023

Background

Blue light phototherapy used extensively in the management of hyperbilirubinemia has many side effects like dry eyes, blurring, headache, and altered circadian rhythm. Healthcare providers working around the phototherapy are unduly exposed to these side effects. Altered circadian rhythm results in disruption in the sleep-wake cycle affecting healthcare providers particularly working during the night shift. The constant glare of the blue light interrupts in clinical observation of the baby on phototherapy. With the intent of providing effective phototherapy with minimal exposure of blue light to healthcare providers, a light source called the photo unit was designed and developed.

The objective of this study was to estimate the intensity and spread of blue light to the surrounding in conventional phototherapy and to compare the same with newly developed converging photo unit.

Results

The therapeutic range of irradiance was noted up to 22 inch in diameter with conventional phototherapy compared to only 7 inch with our photo unit. The light spread with a conventional phototherapy unit was seen beyond 50 inch in all directions whereas was confined to 19-inch diameter with photo unit.

Conclusion

Photo unit developed by the authors has minimal divergence of light to the surrounding, thereby mitigating the side effects of blue light exposure to the people working in the vicinity. Multiple of these photo units can be used to make a phototherapy device.
Structural control of V2O5 nanoparticles via a thermal decomposition method for prospective photocatalytic applications
Authors: Ashery Marwa H. , Elnouby Mohamed , EL-Maghraby E. M. , Elsehly E. M.
Published: January 2023

Background

Recently, transition-metal oxides have represented an exciting research topic, especially their fundamental and technological aspects. Here, vanadium pentoxide nanoparticles (V2O5-NPs) were synthesized through the thermal decomposition of ammonium meta-vanadate. In the current study, we investigated the photocatalytic activity of V2O5-NPs to develop and regulate the V2O5 structure for adsorption applications.

Results

The obtained nanoparticles were inspected by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, and differential thermogravimetric analysis, which proved the formation of the nanorod structure. The ultraviolet–visible absorption spectra revealed a 2.26 eV band gap for V2O5-NPs that correlates with indirect optical transitions. The photocatalytic activity of the V2O5-NPs was investigated by methylene blue (MB) degradation in aqueous solutions. An initial concentration of 25 ppm, a temperature of 40 °C, 40 mg of adsorbent mass, and 1 h of contact time were the optimal conditions for the efficient removal of MB that could reach up to 92.4%. The mechanism of MB photocatalytic degradation by V2O5-NPs is explained.

Conclusions

The photodegradation data better fit with the Langmuir isotherm model. The thermodynamic parameters indicated that the adsorption was spontaneous and endothermic. The reaction kinetics followed the pseudo-second-order model. Thermally prepared V2O5-NPs offer a simple and efficient approach for selective MB removal from an aqueous medium.

Graphical abstract
Adrenal incidentaloma: A case report of Pheochromocytoma (PCC) with atypical radiological features
Authors: Al Waeli Dheyaa Kadhim , Albaghdadi Firas Abdullah , Naeem Mosa Hameed
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Adrenal incidentaloma (AI) is an adrenal lesion ≥ 1 cm discovered accidentally during an imaging technique not aimed to assess the adrenal gland (1). Most AIs are benign and nonfunctioning, about 20% are functioning in form of hypercortisolism, hyperaldosteronism, pheochromocytoma (PCC) or sex steroid overproduction (2). Computed Tomography (CT) scan is vital in differentiating adenoma from non-adenoma. Triphasic CT adrenal protocol (TCTAP) with absolute percentage washout (APW) has good sensitivity and specificity in diagnosis of AI. Here we present a case of PCC with atypical CT features.

Clinical Case

A 45 years old male patient presented with abdominal pain, abdominal US revealed a right suprarenal mass of 55 mm and referred to endocrinologist for further management. During assessment, the patient had attacks of hypertension, no cushingoid features, BMI was 35 kg/m2 and his blood pressure 180/120 mmHg.

Normetanephrine was very high (1016.9 pg/mL), cortisol (10.1 μg/dL), suppressible serum cortisol (1.7 μg/dL), normal DHEA-S (110 μg/dL) and ACTH was 13 pg/mL. Aldosterone, renin, aldosterone/renin ratio (ARR), Metanephrine, K+ are normal.

TCTAP showed a homogenous 51×46 mm right adrenal mass of a native Hounsfield units (HU) of 25, portal phase HU of 86, delayed phase (at 15 minute) HU of 36 and APW was 81%, which are features consistent with lipid poor adenoma (LPA) rather than PCC or carcinoma.

The patient referred to surgery, right adrenalectomy had been done after good preparation and the diagnosis of PCC had been confirmed by histopathological (HP) and immunohistochemical (IHC) staining.

TCTAP used to differentiate adenomatous from non-adenomatous AI with good sensitivity and specificity (3). PCC is an uncommon with variable clinical presentation ranging from severe symptoms to very mild and even sometimes discovered incidentally as AI with about 1.5–14% of all cases of AIs (1). PCC has heterogeneous texture, variable sizes, native HU > 10, avid enhancement and slow washout (4). The present AI was homogenous, has a native HU of 25 and has avid enhancement at portal phase reaching to 86 HU, but the APW was 81% which is atypical for PCC, making lipid poor adenoma at the top list of differential diagnoses. Hormonal assessment revealed the diagnosis of PCC which was confirmed by histopathological (HP) and immunohistochemical (IHC) staining. An American study showed that two of eight PCCs have an APW > 60%, but both of these cases have native HU< 10 and the APW had been calculated at 10 minutes (5). Coincided with our patient and our protocol of 15-minute APW calculation, Yoon et al presented a case of PCC with native HU of 37, portal phase HU of 127 and delayed phase HU of 62 HU with APW of 72% (6).

Conclusion

PCC is serious condition, could be asymptomatic and may be presented with a typical radiological feature, so biochemical and hormonal assessment is a cornerstone in management of AI.