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Simple Summary: Obesity is a significant risk factor for breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Regardless of menopausal status, women with obesity have an elevated incidence of metastasis and a decreased response to treatment. Understanding how obesity promotes the development and progression of breast cancer could improve interventions for women with obesity. Breast tissue contains fat. In response to obesity, breast tissue fat contains more collagen that surrounds the fat cells and epithelial cells. Supportive cells within the fat increase collagen production, which elevates the stiffness of the tissue. Inflammatory cells called macrophages interact with other supportive cells within the fat to increase collagen in the surrounding breast tissue. While weight loss is recommended to reduce obesity, the long-term effects on improving inflammation and the amount of collagen are less clear. Increased collagen and inflammation within breast tissue may enhance the risk for tumor development and promote characteristics associated with a worsened prognosis. Obesity is a rising health concern and is linked to a worsened breast cancer prognosis. Tumor desmoplasia, which is characterized by elevated numbers of cancer-associated fibroblasts and the deposition of fibrillar collagens within the stroma, may contribute to the aggressive clinical behavior of breast cancer in obesity. A major component of the breast is adipose tissue, and fibrotic changes in adipose tissue due to obesity may contribute to breast cancer development and the biology of the resulting tumors. Adipose tissue fibrosis is a consequence of obesity that has multiple sources. Adipocytes and adipose-derived stromal cells secrete extracellular matrix composed of collagen family members and matricellular proteins that are altered by obesity. Adipose tissue also becomes a site of chronic, macrophage-driven inflammation. Macrophages exist as a diverse population within obese adipose tissue and mediate the development of fibrosis through the secretion of growth factors and matricellular proteins and interactions with other stromal cells. While weight loss is recommended to resolve obesity, the long-term effects of weight loss on adipose tissue fibrosis and inflammation within breast tissue are less clear. Increased fibrosis within breast tissue may increase the risk for tumor development as well as promote characteristics associated with tumor aggressiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: In the prevailing era of focused health, consumers are looking for wholesome and nutritious deals wherein smoothies are wonderful options to provide high‐density nutrient content. Owing to its high nutritional compactness, the processing parameters play an important role in product development. In this present study, the functional smoothie was developed. Further to enhance the life of the product, processing conditions like conventional heat treatment (82 °C for 15 min) and ultrasonication (60 amplitude/10 min) assisted heat treatment were assessed. The individual heat treatment, and treatment with combined duos in assisted effect, helped to draw some significant highlights revealing the intricacies of the processes and their effect. The smoothie with the ultrasonicated treatment showed more stable properties like viscosity, serum separation, sensory profile and microbiological aspects also it helped to homogenise the product by reducing its particle size, whereas the smoothie with only pasteurisation treatment showed the higher antioxidant and phenol content. FTIR spectra revealed changes in spectral peaks, wave numbers and corresponding absorbance exhibiting velvety smoothie due to reduced particle size (D90). The other physico‐chemical parameters illustrated non‐significant differences between both treatments. However, the duos in combination manifested a significant reduction in microbes compared with raw samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim: Anatomical variations of the gastric vessels during laparoscopic surgeries of the stomach and related viscera frequently impair the surgeon's judgment, extend the duration of surgery and sometimes can lead to accidental surgical injuries, rendering it not possible to assure the safety and effectiveness of the surgical treatment. This research paper aimed to examine the variations of the left gastric artery (LGA), which could have implications for surgical and interventional procedures of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and related organs. Methods: Fifty specimens, of which 22 were dissected from cadavers and 28 were acquired from post-mortems among the Indian population, regardless of age or sex were examined for variant LGA. In addition, the variation of the celiac trunk was observed in 10 patients using 3D-CT images, which were created by reconstructing multiple-slice computed tomography (CT) using 3-dimensional CT simulation software (3D-CT). Results: The classical pattern origin of LGA from the celiac trunk was observed in 96 % specimens. In 2 % gastrophrenic trunk emerged from the abdominal aorta (AA) slightly proximal to the celiac trunk, then it branched into LGA and left and right inferior phrenic arteries. In remaining 2 %, LGA was the branch of the splenic artery. In 10 individuals radiological examination was conducted and found no abnormal pattern of celiac trunk. Conclusion: Observing and reporting the variation in the gastric vessels by different methods has certain clinical value in upper gastrointestinal surgeries and interventions. The duration can be prolonged and the intraoperative blood loss is increased with the vascular variations. Overall, this research paper provides important information on the prevalence of anatomical variations of the LGA, which could help improve the safety and efficacy of upper gastrointestinal procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Functional constipation (FC) affects up to 32% of the pediatric population, and some of these patients are referred to pediatric surgery units to manage their constipation and/or fecal incontinence. The aim of the current paper is to report the recent updates on the evaluation and management of children with FC as a part of a manuscript series on bowel management in patients with anorectal malformations, Hirschsprung disease, spinal anomalies, and FC. Methods: A literature search was performed using Medline/PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane, and EMBASE databases and focusing on the manuscripts published within the last 5–10 years. Results: The first step of management of children with FC is to exclude Hirschsprung disease with a contrast study, examination under anesthesia, anorectal manometry (AMAN). If AMAN shows absent rectoanal inhibitory reflex, a rectal biopsy is performed. Internal sphincter achalasia or high resting pressures indicate botulinum toxin injection. Medical management options include laxatives, rectal enemas, transanal irrigations, and antegrade flushes. Those who fail conservative treatment require further assessment of colonic motility and can be candidates for colonic resection. The type of resection (subtotal colonic resection vs. Deloyer's procedure) can be guided with a balloon expulsion test. Conclusion: Most of the patients with FC referred for surgical evaluation can be managed conservatively. Further studies are required to determine an optimal strategy of surgical resection in children unresponsive to medical treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients with anorectal malformation (ARM) need long-term follow-up, in order to evaluate fecal continence; the main predictors of longer-term success are the type of ARM, associated anomalies and sacral integrity. Three-Dimensional High Resolution Anorectal Manometry (3D-HRAM) gives detailed information on pressure on the anal complex profile. Our objective was to analyze anal sphincter activity in ARM patients with 3D-HRAM establishing the correlation between manometric and clinical data. Methods: Forty ARM patients were submitted to 3D-HRAM: manometric, anatomical and clinical scores were correlated with each other and with the bowel management response (BM). Results: A positive correlation between all scores and types of ARM was found: in high ARM and in patients with spinal anomalies (regardless to ARM type) lower scores were reported and even after BM they did not achieve good continence. Conclusions: 3D-HRAM gives detailed data on the functional activity of the anal sphincter complex. Our study revealed a correlation between manometric parameters and clinical outcomes, confirming spinal malformations and ARM type as the most important prognostic risk factors for a bad outcome. Specific sphincteric defects can also be explored with manometry, allowing for tailored bowel management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA)was introduced as an alternative to laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF). This reproducible, outpatient procedure addresses the etiology of gastroesophageal reflux disease by implanting a ring of magnetic beads across the esophagogastric junction (EGJ). MSA is designed to resist effacement of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and, similar to LNF, results in restoration of anti-reflux barrier competency by increasing overall length, intraabdominal length and resting pressure of the sphincter. However, the novel use of magnets to augment the physiology of the LES poses unique challenges to the physiology of the EGJ and esophagus. These impacts are best revealed through manometry. The degree of restrictive forces at the EGJ, as measured by intrabolus pressure and integrated relaxation pressure, is higher after MSA compared with LNF. In addition, contrary to the LNF, which retains neurohormonal relaxation capability during deglutition, the magnetic forces remain constant until forcibly opened. Therefore, the burden of overcoming EJG resistance is placed solely on the esophageal body contractile force, as measured by distal contractile integral and distal esophageal amplitude. The main utility of preoperative manometry is in determining whether a patient's esophagus has sufficient contractility or peristaltic reserve to adapt to the challenge of an MSA. Manometric thresholds predictive of MSA outcomes deviate from those used to define named Chicago Classification motility disorders. Therefore, individual preoperative manometric characteristics should be analyzed to aid in risk stratification and patient selection prior to MSA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The echolocating bat is used as a model for studying the auditory nervous system because its specialized sensory capabilities arise from general mammalian auditory percepts such as pitch and sound source localization. These percepts are mediated by precise timing within neurons and networks of the lower auditory brainstem, where the gap junction protein Connexin36 (CX36) is expressed. Gap junctions and electrical synapses in the central nervous system are associated with fast transmission and synchronous patterns of firing within neuronal networks. The purpose of this study was to identify areas where CX36 was expressed in the bat cochlear nucleus to shed light on auditory brainstem networks in a hearing specialist animal model. Methods: We investigated the distribution of CX36 RNA throughout the cochlear nucleus complex of the echolocating big brown bat, Eptesicus fuscus, using in situ hybridization. As a qualitative comparison, we visualized Gjd2 gene expression in the cochlear nucleus of transgenic CX36 reporter mice, species that hear ultrasound but do not echolocate. Results: In both the bat and the mouse, CX36 is expressed in the anteroventral and in the dorsal cochlear nucleus, with more limited expression in the posteroventral cochlear nucleus. These results are generally consistent with previous work based on immunohistochemistry. Conclusion: Our data suggest that the anatomical substrate for CX36-mediated electrical neurotransmission is conserved in the mammalian CN across echolocating bats and non-echolocating mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The olive tree (Olea europaea L.) is the main fruit tree in most of the arid and semi-arid regions of Tunisia, which is where the problem of salinity is more pronounced. Salinity is one of the main factors that affects the productivity of olive trees, so the objective of this experiment was to study the effects of salinity on the photosynthesis, water relations, mineral status, and enzymatic activity of two cultivars of Olea europaea L., 'Chemlali' and 'Koroneiki'. The trial was conducted under controlled conditions in a greenhouse for a period of 49 days and included two treatments: T0 control and T100 (irrigation with 100 mM of NaCl solution). Under salinity stress, the photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, and leaves of both cultivars were negatively affected. 'Chemlali' showed greater tolerance to NaCl salinity, based on a progressive decrease in osmotic potential (Ψπ) followed by a progressive and synchronous decrease in gs, without a comparable decrease in photosynthesis. The water use efficiency (WUE) improved as a result. In addition, the K+/Na+ ratio in 'Chemlali' rose. This appears to be crucial for managing stress. Conversely, enzymatic activity showed an accumulation of glutathione peroxidase (GPX) in stressed plants. The catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) content decreased in both stressed varieties. It can be concluded that the cultivar 'Koroneiki' is more susceptible to salt stress than the cultivar 'Chemlali', because the accumulation of GPX and the decreases in CAT and APX were more pronounced in this cultivar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monitoring global greenhouse gas concentration information via satellite remote sensing has become a critical area of research to support the further understanding of global carbon emissions. The Greenhouse-gases Absorption Spectrometer-2 (GAS-2) is being developed as the primary payload of the Fengyun-3H (FY-3H), which will be launched in 2024. Achieving high-precision mesurements of greenhouse gases requires precise spectral calibration. However, currently, there is no method for assessing the detection accuracy of GAS-2 using spectral calibration light sources, and quantitative studies are lacking. In this study, the influence model of calibration light sources on spectral calibration accuracy is established, and the spectral radiance acquired via GAS-2 is simulated using the line-by-line radiative transfer model (LBLRTM). We investigated the impact of different linewidths and wavelength stabilities of the calibration light source on its accuracy in four wavelength bands. This study is the first to examine the effects of the linewidth and wavelength stability of a calibration light source on the spectral radiance acquired via GAS-2. The initial results demonstrate that if the linewidth of the calibration light source is approximately 100 MHz and the wavelength stability is in the order of subpicometers, the radiance error obtained by GAS-2 is less than 10%. Among the four bands, the 2.06 μ m (strong- C O 2 ) band is more affected by the calibration light source than the other three bands. In addition, the wavelength stability of the light source has a greater influence on the error than the linewidth of the light source under the same error condition. The research findings can be used to guide and reference the selection of light sources in the laboratory spectral calibration of GAS-2, ultimately contributing to the instrument's quantitative development level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a rare cancer characterized by a global increasing incidence. Extracellular vesicles (EV) contribute to many of the hallmarks of cancer through transfer of their cargo molecules. The sphingolipid (SPL) profile of intrahepatic CCA (iCCA)-derived EVs was characterized by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analysis. The effect of iCCA-derived EVs as mediators of inflammation was assessed on monocytes by flow cytometry. iCCA-derived EVs showed downregulation of all SPL species. Of note, poorly-differentiated iCCA-derived EVs showed a higher ceramide and dihydroceramide content compared with moderately-differentiated iCCA-derived EVs. Of note, higher dihydroceramide content was associated with vascular invasion. Cancer-derived EVs induced the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines in monocytes. Inhibition of synthesis of ceramide with Myriocin, a specific inhibitor of the serine palmitoyl transferase, reduced the pro-inflammatory activity of iCCA-derived EVs, demonstrating a role for ceramide as mediator of inflammation in iCCA. In conclusion, iCCA-derived EVs may promote iCCA progression by exporting the excess of pro-apoptotic and pro-inflammatory ceramides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of crop water requirements is important in supporting irrigation management. Evapotranspiration (ET) is commonly measured with a variety of instruments and field procedures, but it is also typically computed or modeled using the FAO56 or FAO66 methods. The adoption of this approach requires the assessment of the crop coefficients. Some data are available for own-rooted hazelnut trees, but no data have been reported for young and grafted hazelnut trees. There is a need to update nut–tree crop coefficients, especially considering modern cultivars and production systems, such as those with a high tree density per ha−1. In this paper, the FAO66 crop transpiration coefficient Kc,Tr and the FAO56 dual crop coefficients Kcb were assessed for the mid-growing season of a young grafted hazelnut orchard. The field data were acquired manually and using UAV. The coefficients were determined for three tree densities and for two growing seasons. The crop coefficients, obtained using the FAO66 method, agreed with the literature data referring to low densities, while the FAO56 method could allow us to better define the crop coefficients for high-density hazelnut orchards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose of Review: The present review aims to systematically assess published data to elucidate benralizumab efficacy on nasal outcomes in comorbid patients. Recent Findings: Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is a heterogeneous inflammatory disease of the nasal cavity often associated with severe asthma (SA), contributing to a global disease burden in asthmatics. The two pathologies share common underlying mechanisms (e.g., type-2 inflammation), which sustain symptoms and poor comorbid patient quality of life. Therefore, it is of primary importance to identify the correct therapeutic option in order to achieve the optimal management of patients affected by both pathologies. Benralizumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody directed at the α subunit of the interleukin-5 receptor (IL-5Rα) approved for the treatment of severe eosinophilic asthma. Increasing body of literature provides data on its efficacy also on CRSwNP in the comorbid SA patient. Summary: Based on the data described in this review, when benralizumab is administered to comorbid patients, it does not only control severe asthma but also improves CRSwNP clinical outcomes, although we need further studies to add stronger evidence and to improve the correct pheno-endotyping of the comorbid patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increase in the incidence of thyroid nodules with cytological findings of TIR3b requires the identification of predictive factors of malignancy. We prospectively evaluated 2160 patients from January 2018 to June 2022 and enrolled 103 patients with indeterminate cytology TIR3b nodules who underwent total (73 patients) and hemi-thyroidectomy (30 patients). Among them, 61 had a histological diagnosis of malignancy (30 classic papillary thyroid carcinoma, 19 had follicular papillary thyroid carcinoma variant, 3 had Hurtle cell carcinoma and 9 had follicular thyroid carcinoma), while 42 had a benign histology. Clinical, ultrasonographic and cytological characteristics were recorded. In addition, BRAF mutation was analysed. Patients with a histological diagnosis of malignancy had a higher frequency of nodule diameter ≤11 mm (p = 0.002), hypoechogenicity (p < 0.001), irregular borders (p < 0.001), peri- and intralesional vascular flows (p = 0.004) and microcalcifications (p = 0.001) compared to patients with benign histology. In contrast, patients with benign histology had more frequent nodules with a halo sign (p = 0.012) compared to patients with histological diagnosis of malignancy. No significant differences were found in BRAF mutation between the two groups. Our study suggests that the combination of ultrasonographic and cytological data could be more accurate and reliable than cytology alone in identifying those patients with TIR3b cytology and a histology of malignancy to be referred for thyroidectomy, thus reducing the number of patients undergoing thyroidectomy for benign thyroid disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In semiarid environments of the Mediterranean region, intercropping is a sustainable agricultural system of long standing. In this area, the pea (Pisum sativum L.) is one of the most commonly grown legume crops. Little information is available on the quality of silages to be obtained from forage mixtures of pea intercropped with cereals or annual grasses. In this study, two experiments were conducted over the course of two growing seasons in Sicily (Italy) with the aim to determine the biomass production of forage crop mixtures and assess, only in the second experiment, the silage quality of grass and legumes. Four cereals and one annual grass species were grown in pure stand and in mixture with pea, and their main agronomic traits were determined. The land equivalent ratio (LER), competitive ratio, and aggressivity index were also calculated. A number of parameters were considered to assess the quality of silage obtained from fermented biomasses derived from pea–ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam. var. Westerwoldicum) intercropping. In the first experiment, the best performance between the intercrops was recorded for the pea–wheat mixture. The total LER calculated for fodder yields was always greater than 1, indicating crop yield advantages ranging from 2.0% to 47.0%. In the second experiment, the pea–ryegrass mixture appeared to respond well, depending on plant arrangement and seeding ratio factors: the ratios 50:50 and 100:50 showed the greatest crop yield advantages, of 12.0% and 11.0%, respectively. All silages revealed a very good suitability of a pea–ryegrass intercropping system with high‐quality silage production in the Southern Mediterranean region. Core ideas: Intercrops represent a key strategy to increase the sustainability of forage production in Sicily.Legumes in forage mixtures provide potential benefits to soil fertility and fodder quality for livestock feeding.Plant arrangement and seeding ratio should be jointly assessed to maximize yield and pea–ryegrass silages' quality.Pea–ryegrass intercrop is very suitable for quality silage production in the Southern Mediterranean regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Light‐driven 3D printing can empower the liberty of creation and concretize the original creation in versatile conditions with plenty of choices in resolution or properties. However, photopolymerization‐based 3D printing inks are facing a trade‐off between requiring processing rate and satisfying performance, and a chemical optimization strategy is proposed to achieve the ink demands of rapid direct ink writing utilizing up‐conversion assisted photopolymerization. Since acylphosphonate can generate two reactive radicals and tertiary amine can reinitiate polymerization in oxygen inhibition, the yielded active species in limited irradiation of 3D printing are maximized to accelerate the polymerization by theoretically and experimentally interpreting the roles of up‐conversion particle, photoinitiators, and co‐initiator played in printing. High print speed in depositing and in situ curing (3.56 × 104 mm3 h−1) are realized, and the manufacturing time is shortened by multi‐resolution printing which is impressive compared to current 3D printing methods. The strategy is simultaneously compatible with rigid and elastomeric materials, and will surely contribute to other light‐driven 3D printing technologies for extensive applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In the last decade, advances in surgical techniques, and the introduction of adjuncts for organ protection, have modified the approach for thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA) surgical repair. The aim of this study is to determine whether the contemporary approach influenced the outcomes. Methods: From 1989 to 2022, patients who had received elective open surgical repair (OSR) for TAAA at our institution were retrospectively analyzed. This series has been divided in two groups: Group 1 (1989–2009), and Group 2 (2010–2022). Patients included in Group 1 were those treated with a selective use of adjuncts, and Group 2 included patients treated with the systematic use of adjuncts. Results: A total of 1107 patients were treated (Group 1: 455; Group 2: 652). The surgical management was significantly different between the two groups. The in-hospital mortality was significantly different between the two groups (Group 1: 13.4%, Group 2: 8.1%; p 0.004), as was the rate of permanent spinal cord ischemia (Group 1: 11.9%, Group 2: 7.8%; p 0.023). Renal and respiratory failure were reduced in Group 2, but not significantly. Conclusions: The use of the adjuncts enabled the achievement of improvement in mortality and SCI prevention in TAAA OSR. Although a refined surgical technique, mortality and morbidity are still noteworthy in this complex aortic field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the serious effects of coronavirus disease 2019 on academic burnout, this study aims to examine the multiple mediating roles of negative emotions and phubbing in the relationship between parental marital conflict and academic burnout. A total of 1353 college students participated in this study. The results showed that parental marital conflict not only had a direct effect on academic burnout but also affected academic burnout through three indirect paths: parental marital conflict‐negative emotions‐academic burnout, parental marital conflict‐phubbing‐academic burnout, and parental marital conflict‐negative emotions‐phubbing‐academic burnout. The parental marital conflict increased the risk of negative emotions and phubbing in college students and had a subsequent impact on academic burnout. Implications for prevention and intervention are discussed. Highlights: Parental marital conflict significantly predicted academic burnout in college students.Parental marital conflict affected academic burnout through the indirect effect of negative emotions and phubbing.Negative emotions and phubbing played chain‐mediating roles in the relations between parental marital conflict and academic burnout. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) often coexists with lower airway disease. With the overlap between upper and lower airway disease, optimal management of the upper airways is undertaken in conjunction with that of the lower airways. Biologic therapy with targeted activity within the Type 2 inflammatory pathway can improve the clinical signs and symptoms of both upper and lower airway diseases. Knowledge gaps nevertheless exist in how best to approach patient care as a whole. There have been sixteen randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trails performed for CRSwNP targeted components of the Type 2 inflammatory pathway, notably interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5 and IL-13, IL- 5R, IL-33, and immunoglobulin (Ig)E. This white paper considers the perspectives of experts in various disciplines such as rhinology, allergy, and respirology across Canada, all of whom have unique and valuable insights to contribute on how to best approach patients with upper airway disease from a multidisciplinary perspective. Methods: A Delphi Method process was utilized involving three rounds of questionnaires in which the first two were completed individually online and the third was discussed on a virtual platform with all the panelists. A national multidisciplinary expert panel of 34 certified specialists was created, composed of 16 rhinologists, 7 allergists, and 11 respirologists who evaluated the 20 original statements on a scale of 1–9 and provided comments. All ratings were quantitively reviewed by mean, median, mode, range, standard deviation and inter-rater reliability. Consensus was defined by relative interrater reliability measures—kappa coefficient (κ ) value > 0.61. Results: After three rounds, a total of 22 statements achieved consensus. This white paper only contains the final agreed upon statements and clear rationale and support for the statements regarding the use of biologics in patients with upper airway disease. Conclusion: This white paper provides guidance to Canadian physicians on the use of biologic therapy for the management of upper airway disease from a multidisciplinary perspective, but the medical and surgical regimen should ultimately be individualized to the patient. As more biologics become available and additional trials are published we will provide updated versions of this white paper every few years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochemical confirmation of a diagnosis of hypercortisolism (Cushing syndrome) is vital to direct further investigations, especially given the overlap with non-autonomous conditions, such as pseudo-Cushing, and the morbidity associated with missed diagnoses. A limited narrative review was performed focusing on the laboratory perspective of the pitfalls of making a biochemical diagnosis of hypercortisolism in those presenting with presumed Cushing syndrome. Although analytically less specific, immunoassays remain cheap, quick, and reliable in most situations. Understanding cortisol metabolism can help with patient preparation, specimen selection (e.g., consideration of urine or saliva for those with possible elevations of cortisol binding globulin concentration), and method selection (e.g., mass spectrometry if there is a high risk of abnormal metabolites). Although more specific methods may be less sensitive, this can be managed. The reduction in cost and increasing ease of use makes techniques such as urine steroid profiles and salivary cortisone of interest in future pathway development. In conclusion, the limitations of current assays, particularly if well understood, do not impede diagnosis in most cases. However, in complex or borderline cases, there are other techniques to consider to aid in the confirmation of hypercortisolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids is essential to meet the diverse needs of cells. The autophagy cellular pathway is crucial for normal cellular function through its ability to target and degrade damaged organelles and misfolded proteins. Autophagy also provides cells with necessary energy as an end product. Cancer cells have a high rate of proliferation and, thus, require more energy compared to normal cells. Not surprisingly, cancer cells are highly dependent on these metabolic pathways. This review provides an in-depth review of recent research findings on how carbohydrate and lipid metabolism regulate autophagy and how this impacts cancer cells. Metabolic changes are an important component of tumor cell progression. Tumor cells adapt to environmental stresses via changes to carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. Autophagy, a physiological process in mammalian cells that digests damaged organelles and misfolded proteins via lysosomal degradation, is closely associated with metabolism in mammalian cells, acting as a meter of cellular ATP levels. In this review, we discuss the changes in glycolytic and lipid biosynthetic pathways in mammalian cells and their impact on carcinogenesis via the autophagy pathway. In addition, we discuss the impact of these metabolic pathways on autophagy in lung cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This Article reports on new empirical evidence discrediting the widely held view that judges have resisted applying the Supreme Court's teachings in eBay Inc. v. MercExchange, L.L.C. about injunctive relief in copyright cases. That 2006 patent law decision ruled that courts should not automatically issue injunctions upon a finding of infringement; instead, plaintiffs must prove their entitlement to injunctive relief. eBay had a seismic impact on patent litigation and greatly reduced the threat that small infringements could be leveraged into billion-dollar settlements. Yet prior empirical work, at least one major copyright law treatise, and many articles assert that eBay had little or no effect on the neighboring arena of copyright law. They assert that eBay was rarely cited and infrequently applied. By examining a longer timeline of cases and more carefully distinguishing between default judgments and contested cases, we find substantial evidence that eBay has become profoundly important in copyright injunction cases. The decision's true impact becomes apparent by looking at citations to eBay and related cases as well as the language judges have been using to discuss the need to balance hardships to plaintiffs and defendants when considering whether to grant copyright injunctions. We also find evidence suggesting that injunctions have become more difficult to obtain in the aftermath of eBay. Our data suggest that the early impression that eBay had little impact in copyright cases was a product of hysteresis--a time lag between cause and effect--as lower courts initially resisted, but eventually embraced, eBay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of anatomical variations of the hepatic artery from its origin to intrahepatic segmentation is of utmost importance for planning upper abdominal surgeries including liver transplantation, pancreatoduodenectomy, and biliary reconstruction. The origin and branching pattern of the hepatic artery was thoroughly described by the classification of Michels and Hiatt. Some rare variations of the hepatic artery were classified by Kobayashi and Koops. By the use of the multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) technique, the branching pattern of the hepatic artery can be visualized quite accurately. Unawareness of these arterial variations may lead to intraoperative injuries such as necrosis, abscess, and failure of the liver and pancreas. The origin and course of the aberrant hepatic arteries are crucial in the surgical planning of carcinoma of the head of the pancreas and hepatobiliary surgeries. In liver transplant surgeries, to minimize intraoperative bleeding complications and postoperative thrombosis, exact anatomy of the branching of the hepatic artery, its variations and intrahepatic course is of utmost importance. This review discusses variations in the anatomy of the hepatic artery from its origin to branching by the use of advanced imaging techniques and its effect on the liver, pancreatic, biliary and gastric surgeries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a case study for the testing of locally available resources selected to form a clay barrier. This is a promising technique for protecting historic masonry from ground moisture intrusion. There are several historical precedents for the use of calcareous, clayey soils to form moisture resilient barriers in architecture. More recently, specialised bentonite mixtures have arrived on the market. Assessment protocols for suitable barrier material will help establish general codes and the potential for this technique to make use of locally available resources, either in their raw state or in mixtures. In this project, a variety of different geo-materials are collected from around Pompeii to test their suitability for use in a barrier installation on a tomb in the archaeological site. The methodology consists of laboratory tests used in the assessment of barrier material for landfill engineering, and rapid tests used in earth construction. A mixture of a calcareous clay and a sand produced barrier material with suitable properties. The methodology can form the basis of assessments elsewhere, to further develop the potential of using locally available geo-resources for conservation and construction projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To report a case of a rare disease entity Posterior Microphthalmos Pigmentary Retinopathy Syndrome (PMPRS) in a 47-year-old female with a brief review of literature. Case Report: A 47-year-old woman presented with a history of defective vision with an associated difficulty in night vision. Clinical workup was done, which included a thorough ocular examination showing diffuse pigmentary mottling of fundus, ocular biometry showing short axial length with normal anterior segment dimensions, electroretinography showing extinguished response, optical coherence tomography showing foveoschisis, and ultrasonography showing thickened sclera-choroidal complex. Findings were consistent with those reported by other authors with PMPRS. Conclusion: Posterior microphthalmia with or without other ocular and systemic associations should be suspected in cases with high hyperopia. It is mandatory to carefully examine the patient at presentation and close follow-ups are needed to maintain visual function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent times, financial globalization has drastically increased in different ways to improve the quality of services with advanced resources. The successful applications of bitcoin Blockchain (BC) techniques enable the stockholders to worry about the return and risk of financial products. The stockholders focused on the prediction of return rate and risk rate of financial products. Therefore, an automatic return rate bitcoin prediction model becomes essential for BC financial products. The newly designed machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) approaches pave the way for return rate predictive method. This study introduces a novel Jellyfish search optimization based extreme learning machine with autoencoder (JSO-ELMAE) for return rate prediction of BC financial products. The presented JSO-ELMAE model designs a new ELMAE model for predicting the return rate of financial products. Besides, the JSO algorithm is exploited to tune the parameters related to the ELMAE model which in turn boosts the classification results. The application of JSO technique assists in optimal parameter adjustment of the ELMAE model to predict the bitcoin return rates. The experimental validation of the JSO-ELMAE model was executed and the outcomes are inspected in many aspects. The experimental values demonstrated the enhanced performance of the JSO-ELMAE model over recent state of art approaches with minimal RMSE of 0.1562. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Determine the precorneal retention time of five different ocular lubricants commonly used in dogs. Animals Studied: Six healthy Beagle dogs (n = 12 eyes). Procedures: Five ocular lubricants were studied: Artificial Tears Solution® (1.4% polyvinyl alcohol), I‐Drop® Vet Plus (0.25% hyaluronate), Optixcare® Eye Lube Plus (0.25% hyaluronate), Systane® Ultra (0.4% polyethylene glycol 400 and 0.3% propylene glycol), and Artificial Tears Ointment® (mineral oil/white petrolatum). Each lubricant was mixed with 10% sodium fluorescein to achieve 1% fluorescein formulations. Following topical administration of 35 mg in each eye, tear fluid was collected with capillary tubes at selected times (0, 1, 5, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 90, 120, 180 min) and fluorescein concentrations were measured with a computerized scanning ocular fluorophotometer. Results: Tear fluorescence was significantly greater with Artificial Tears Ointment® compared with other lubricant formulations from 1 to 20 min post‐administration. Median (range) precorneal retention times were significantly different among the 5 lubricants, ranging from 40 minutes (20–90 min) for Artificial Tears Ointment®, 35 min (20–90 min) for Systane® Ultra, 30 min (10–60 min) for I‐Drop® Vet Plus, 25 min (10–60 min) for Optixcare® Eye Lube Plus, and 10 min (10–20 min) for Artificial Tears Solution®. Precorneal retention time was significantly lower for Artificial Tears Solution® compared with the other 4 formulations. Conclusions: This study established normative data for the retention time of common lubricants on the ocular surface of dogs, which may be used to guide clinicians with their choice of lubricant and frequency of administration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A healthy stress response is critical for good mental and overall health and promotes neuronal growth and adaptation, but the intricately balanced biological mechanisms that facilitate a stress response can also result in predisposition to disease when that equilibrium is disrupted. The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis neuroendocrine system plays a critical role in the body's response and adaptation to stress, and vasopressinergic regulation of the HPA axis is critical to maintaining system responsiveness during chronic stress. However, exposure to repeated or excessive physical or emotional stress or trauma can shift the body's stress response equilibrium to a "new normal" underpinned by enduring changes in HPA axis function. Exposure to early life stress due to adverse childhood experiences can also lead to lasting neurobiological changes, including in HPA axis function. HPA axis impairment in patients with depression is considered among the most reliable findings in biological psychiatry, and chronic stress has been shown to play a major role in the pathogenesis and onset of depression and other neuropsychiatric disorders. Modulating HPA axis activity, for example via targeted antagonism of the vasopressin V1b receptor, is a promising approach for patients with depression and other neuropsychiatric disorders associated with HPA axis impairment. Despite favorable preclinical indications in animal models, demonstration of clinical efficacy for the treatment of depressive disorders by targeting HPA axis dysfunction has been challenging, possibly due to the heterogeneity and syndromal nature of depressive disorders. Measures of HPA axis function, such as elevated cortisol levels, may be useful biomarkers for identifying patients who may benefit from treatments that modulate HPA axis activity. Utilizing clinical biomarkers to identify subsets of patients with impaired HPA axis function who may benefit is a promising next step in fine-tuning HPA axis activity via targeted antagonism of the V1b receptor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite surgical correction, children with anorectal malformations may experience long-term bowel dysfunction, including fecal incontinence and/or disorders of evacuation. Anorectal manometry is the most widely used test of anorectal function. Although considerable attention has been devoted to its application in the anorectal malformation cohort, there have been few attempts to consolidate the findings obtained. This systematic review aimed to (1) synthesize and evaluate the existing data regarding anorectal manometry results in children following anorectal malformation repair, and (2) evaluate the manometry protocols utilized, including equipment, assessment approach, and interpretation. We reviewed four databases (Embase, MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library, and PubMed) for relevant articles published between 1 January 1985 and 10 March 2022. Studies reporting post-operative anorectal manometry in children (<18 years) following anorectal malformation repair were evaluated for eligibility. Sixty-three studies were eligible for inclusion. Of the combined total cohort of 2155 patients, anorectal manometry results were reported for 1755 children following repair of anorectal malformations. Reduced resting pressure was consistently identified in children with anorectal malformations, particularly in those with more complex malformation types and/or fecal incontinence. Significant variability was identified in relation to manometry equipment, protocols, and interpretation. Few studies provided adequate cohort medical characteristics to facilitate interpretation of anorectal manometry findings within the context of the broader continence mechanism. This review highlights a widespread lack of standardization in the anorectal manometry procedure used to assess anorectal function in children following anorectal malformation repair. Consequently, interpretation and comparison of findings, both within and between institutions, is exceedingly challenging, if not impossible. Standardized manometry protocols, accompanied by a consistent approach to analysis, including definitions of normality and abnormality, are essential to enhance the comparability and clinical relevance of results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity is a well-known modifiable risk factor for breast cancer and is considered a poor prognostic factor in pre- and post-menopausal women. While the systemic effects of obesity have been extensively studied, less is known about the mechanisms underlying obesityassociated cancer risk and the local consequences of obesity. Thus, obesity-induced inflammation has become the focus of research interest. Biologically, the development of cancer involves a complex interaction with numerous components. As the tumor immune microenvironment changes due to obesity-triggered inflammation, an increase in infiltration occurs for proinflammatory cytokines and adipokines, as well as adipocytes, immune cells, and tumor cells in the expanded adipose tissue. Complicated cellular-molecular crosstalk networks change critical pathways, mediate metabolic and immune function reprogramming, and have a significant role in tumor metastasis, proliferation, resistance, angiogenesis, and tumorigenesis. This review summarizes recent research findings on how inflammatory mediators in the in situ tumor microenvironment regulate the occurrence and development of breast cancer in the context of obesity. We analyzed the heterogeneity and potential mechanisms of the breast cancer immune microenvironment from the perspective of inflammation to provide a reference for the clinical transformation of precision targeted cancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our aim was to review the current literature regarding the effect of antioxidant supplementation (AS) on male fertility parameters, as AS is commonly used to treat male infertility due to the availability and affordability of antioxidants in many parts of the world. Materials and methods: PubMed, Medline, and Cochrane electronic bibliographies were searched using the modified Preferred Reporting Items for Systemic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to evaluate studies on the benefit of antioxidant therapy on infertile men. Results were analyzed regarding the following aspects: (a) ingredient and dose; (b) potential mechanism of action and rationale for use; and (c) effect on various reported outcomes. Results: Thus, 29 studies found a substantial positive effect of AS on outcomes of assisted reproductive therapy (ART), WHO semen parameters, and live-birth rate. Carnitines, Vitamin E and C, N-acetyl cysteine, coenzyme Q10, selenium, zinc, folic acid, and lycopene were beneficial ingredients. Nevertheless, some studies did not show a substantial change in one or more factors. Conclusion: AS seems to have a positive effect on male fertility. Environmental factors may play an increasing role in fertility. Further studies are needed to determine the optimal AS combination and the influence of environmental factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of the present study was to investigate increase in delivery of drug upon formulation as mucoadhesive microemulsion system and further to investigate possibility of any cytotoxic effects using such formulation. Material and methods: Considering hydrophilic and small molecular nature of the drug, it was attempted to be formulated as microemulsion, by using pseudo ternary phase diagram method. Thus, three types of microemulsions were prepared; oil in water, water in oil type and chitosan-coated microemulsion. These microemulsions were characterized for several physicochemical properties like size, zeta potential, Polydispersity index, and compared for in vitro cell viability and ex vivo corneal irritation study. Results: All three microemulsions were quite stable, transparent and homogenous systems. They showed similar drug release pattern, but highest ex vivo goat corneal permeation was observed with Chitosan coated microemulsion when compared with ganciclovir solution. Conclusion: All microemulsions were found to be non-irritant in in vitro cell viability assay and ex vivo corneal irritation study, indicating the potential of using such systems for delivery of drug to eye. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Citizen energy in general and renewable energy communities (RECs) in particular are becoming key vehicles for decentralisation, but also for the democratisation of the energy system. These initiatives are now more diverse than ever and are likely to continue to act as incubators for significant projects in the transition to a renewable energy system. Beside the legal, regulatory, and financial challenges, there are several socio-economic and regulatory barriers that hinder the implementation of community energy projects. For this reason, policy learning and the dissemination of good/best practices that are transferable also to other contexts are important. This is an aspect that has not yet attracted much investigation, and only a few studies have explored the importance of transfer activities for the implementation of REC initiatives and their motives. This article aimed to address this knowledge gap by focussing on the transfer processes of best practices initiated in a particular region and discusses how these can be adapted and transferred to other contexts. We analysed the transfer case of a community renewable energy initiative, the multifunctional energy gardens, from the Netherlands to the German federal State of Thuringia, and extracted lessons with an overall validity for the transferability of drivers and success factors. We show how examples from other contexts with similar enabling conditions can represent significant foundations on which to build an effective strategy and what framework conditions are necessary to enhance the uptake of pervasive community energy initiatives in regions with low community energy development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lake chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) is one of the important components of the lake ecosystem. Numerous studies have analyzed Chl-a in ocean and inland water ecosystems under pressures from climate change and anthropogenic activities. However, little research has been conducted on lake Chl-a variations in the Tibet Plateau (TP) because of its harsh environment and limited opportunities for in situ data monitoring. Here, we combined 95 in situ measured lake Chl-a concentration data points and the Landsat reflection spectrum to establish an inversion model of Chl-a concentration. For this, we retrieved the mean annual Chl-a concentration in the past 35 years (1986–2021) of 318 lakes with an area of > 10 km2 in the TP using the backpropagation (BP) neural network prediction method. Meteorological and hydrological data, measured water quality parameters, and glacier change in the lake basin, along with geographic information system (GIS) technology and spatial statistical analysis, were used to elucidate the driving factors of the Chl-a concentration changes in the TP lakes. The results showed that the mean annual Chl-a in the 318 lakes displayed an overall decrease during 1986–2021 (−0.03 μg/L/y), but 63%, 32%, and 5% of the total number exhibited no significant change, significant decrease, and significant increase, respectively. After a slight increase during 1986–1995 (0.05 μg/L/y), the mean annual lake Chl-a significantly decreased during 1996–2004 (−0.18 μg/L/y). Further, it decreased slightly during 2005–2021 (−0.02 μg/L/y). The mean annual lake Chl-a concentration was significantly negatively correlated with precipitation (R2 = 0.48, p < 0.01), air temperature (R2 = 0.31, p < 0.01), lake surface water temperature (LSWT) (R2 = 0.51, p < 0.01), lake area (R2 = 0.42, p < 0.01), and lake water volume change (R2 = 0.77, p < 0.01). The Chl-a concentration of non-glacial-meltwater-fed lakes were higher than those of glacial-meltwater-fed lakes, except during higher precipitation periods. Our results shed light on the impacts of climate change on Chl-a variation in the TP lakes and lay the foundation for understanding the changes in the TP lake ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The dual role of GCs has been observed in breast cancer; however, due to many concomitant factors, GR action in cancer biology is still ambiguous. In this study, we aimed to unravel the context-dependent action of GR in breast cancer. Methods. GR expression was characterized in multiple cohorts: (1) 24,256 breast cancer specimens on the RNA level, 220 samples on the protein level and correlated with clinicopathological data; (2) oestrogen receptor (ER)-positive and -negative cell lines were used to test for the presence of ER and ligand, and the effect of the GRβ isoform following GRα and GRβ overexpression on GR action, by in vitro functional assays. Results. We found that GR expression was higher in ER− breast cancer cells compared to ER+ ones, and GR-transactivated genes were implicated mainly in cell migration. Immunohistochemistry showed mostly cytoplasmic but heterogenous staining irrespective of ER status. GRα increased cell proliferation, viability, and the migration of ER− cells. GRβ had a similar effect on breast cancer cell viability, proliferation, and migration. However, the GRβ isoform had the opposite effect depending on the presence of ER: an increased dead cell ratio was found in ER+ breast cancer cells compared to ER− ones. Interestingly, GRα and GRβ action did not depend on the presence of the ligand, suggesting the role of the "intrinsic", ligand-independent action of GR in breast cancer. Conclusions. Staining differences using different GR antibodies may be the reason behind controversial findings in the literature regarding the expression of GR protein and clinicopathological data. Therefore, caution in the interpretation of immunohistochemistry should be applied. By dissecting the effects of GRα and GRβ, we found that the presence of the GR in the context of ER had a different effect on cancer cell behaviour, but independently of ligand availability. Additionally, GR-transactivated genes are mostly involved in cell migration, which raises GR's importance in disease progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In this study, we examined how age impacts the outcomes of breast cancer by comparing three age groups: patients 45 years old or younger, patients between 46 and 69 years old, and patients 70 years old or older. Despite similar cancer staging and tumor characteristics among the age groups, the study found that older patients were prone to suboptimal treatment. Older patients also had a lower overall survival rate, but this was not related to cancer itself. Instead, we found that undertreatment was a factor that negatively impacted survival for older women with breast cancer. This study suggests that tumor characteristics and treatment compliance are more important predictors of survival than chronological age. Age as a breast cancer (BC) prognostic factor remains debatable. Several studies have investigated clinicopathological features at different ages, but few make an age group direct comparison. The European Society of Breast Cancer Specialists quality indicators (EUSOMA-QIs) allow a standardized quality assurance of BC diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up. Our objective was to compare clinicopathological features, compliance to EUSOMA-QIs and BC outcomes in three age groups (≤45 years, 46–69 years, and ≥70 years). Data from 1580 patients with staged 0–IV BC from 2015 to 2019 were analyzed. The minimum standard and desirable target on 19 mandatory and 7 recommended QIs were studied. The 5-year relapse rate, overall survival (OS), and BC-specific survival (BCSS) were also evaluated. No meaningful differences in TNM staging and molecular subtyping classification between age groups were found. On the contrary, disparities in QIs compliance were observed: 73.1% in ≤45 years and 46–69 years women vs. 54% in older patients. No differences in loco-regional or distant progression were observed between age groups. Nevertheless, lower OS was found in older patients due to concurrent non-oncological causes. After survival curves adjustment, we underscored evidence of undertreatment impacting BCSS in ≥70 years women. Despite a unique exception—more invasive G3 tumors in younger patients—no age-specific differences in BC biology impacting outcome were found. Although increased noncompliance in older women, no outcome correlation was observed with QIs noncompliance in any age group. Clinicopathological features and differences in multimodal treatment (not the chronological age) are predictors of lower BCSS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity and related metabolic dysfunctions are associated with neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease. Aphanizomenon flos-aquae (AFA) is a cyanobacterium considered a suitable supplement for its nutritional profile and beneficial properties. The potential neuroprotective effect of an AFA extract, commercialized as KlamExtra®, including the two AFA extracts Klamin® and AphaMax®, in High-Fat Diet (HFD)-fed mice was explored. Three groups of mice were provided with a standard diet (Lean), HFD or HFD supplemented with AFA extract (HFD + AFA) for 28 weeks. Metabolic parameters, brain insulin resistance, expression of apoptosis biomarkers, modulation of astrocytes and microglia activation markers, and Aβ deposition were analyzed and compared in the brains of different groups. AFA extract treatment attenuated HFD-induced neurodegeneration by reducing insulin resistance and loss of neurons. AFA supplementation improved the expression of synaptic proteins and reduced the HFD-induced astrocytes and microglia activation, and Aβ plaques accumulation. Together, these outcomes indicate that regular intake of AFA extract could benefit the metabolic and neuronal dysfunction caused by HFD, decreasing neuroinflammation and promoting Aβ plaques clearance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elexacaftor/Tezacaftor/Ivacaftor (ELX/TEZ/IVA) is a new CFTR (Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator) modulator treatment, used over the last few years, which has shown an improvement in different clinical outcomes in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). The objective of this study was a systematic research of the literature on the efficacy and safety of this CFTR modulator on patients with CF. A search of Pubmed was conducted for randomized clinical trials and observational studies published from 2012 to September 2022. The included full manuscripts comprised nine clinical trials and 16 observational studies, whose participants were aged ≥12 years or were children 6–11 years old with at least one Phe508del mutation and/or advanced lung disease (ALD). These studies reported that ELX/TEZ/IVA has a significant positive effect on the lung function of patients with CF, by ameliorating parameters such as FEV1, LCI, pulmonary exacerbations or sweat chloride concentration, increasing BMI and improving quality of their life. Its role in cystic fibrosis-related diabetes (CFRD) is not yet clear. It was found that this new CFTR modulator has an overall favorable safety profile, with mild to moderate adverse events. Further studies are needed for a deeper understanding of the impact of CFTR modulators on other CF manifestations, or the possibility of treating with ELX/TEZ/IVA CF patients with rare CFTR mutations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) has successfully solved the black box paradox of Artificial Intelligence (AI). By providing human-level insights on AI, it allowed users to understand its inner workings even with limited knowledge of the machine learning algorithms it uses. As a result, the field grew, and development flourished. However, concerns have been expressed that the techniques are limited in terms of to whom they are applicable and how their effect can be leveraged. Currently, most XAI techniques have been designed by developers. Though needed and valuable, XAI is more critical for an end-user, considering transparency cleaves on trust and adoption. This study aims to understand and conceptualize an end-user-centric XAI to fill in the lack of end-user understanding. Considering recent findings of related studies, this study focuses on design conceptualization and affective analysis. Data from 202 participants were collected from an online survey to identify the vital XAI design components and testbed experimentation to explore the affective and trust change per design configuration. The results show that affective is a viable trust calibration route for XAI. In terms of design, explanation form, communication style, and presence of supplementary information are the components users look for in an effective XAI. Lastly, anxiety about AI, incidental emotion, perceived AI reliability, and experience using the system are significant moderators of the trust calibration process for an end-user. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last decade, 3D printing systems have greatly evolved both in terms of processable materials and printing resolutions, becoming a top seed technology for many academic and industrial applications. Nevertheless, manufacturing polymeric materials characterized by a trabecular porosity and functionally graded architecture—where both the local porosity and chemical composition of the matrix change in the 3D space—through additive platforms remains an open technical challenge. In this study, a 3D extrusion printing strategy to tackle this problem is presented. The proposed systems are based on a flow‐focusing microfluidic printing head—to continuously generate oil‐in‐water emulsion inks—and on an agarose fluid–gel used as a temporary support bath for the deposition of the photo‐curable emulsion inks. It is demonstrated that through this strategy one can design a priori and build with high accuracy both discontinuous and continuous functionally graded polymeric foams, where both the density and composition of the materials could be varied independently within arbitrarily complex 3D architectures. This study provides new means for the synthesis of microporous, polymeric FGMs which could find applications ranging from interface tissue engineering to automotive and construction industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a heterogeneous disease with a diverse genetic spectrum among populations. Few patients with CF of Chinese origin have been reported worldwide. The objective of this study is to characterise the genotypic features of CF in Chinese children. Methods We recruited and characterised the genetic manifestations of 103 Chinese children with CF in Beijing Children's Hospital from 2010 to 2022. Whole-exome sequencing were performed to define the genotypes. Meanwhile, other 99 genetically confirmed patients with Chinese origin described in 45 references were also summarised. Results 158 different variants including 23 novel observations were identified after sequencing. The majority of CFTR variants (82.3%) in Chinese have been observed only once or twice. 43.7% of the variants were only identified in patients of Chinese origin. The c.2909G>A(p.Gly970Asp), c.1766+5G>T and c.1657C>T(p.Arg553X) were the most frequent variants among Chinese patients, with allele frequency of 12.1%, 5.4% and 3.6%, respectively. The first two variants both showed significant Chinese ethnic tendency, while the latter one most likely came from Europeans for historical reasons. They also demonstrated significant differences in geographical distribution. c.1521_1523delCTT(p. F508del) was rarely observed in patients of pure Chinese origin, with an allele frequency of 1.8%. Two de novo variants (c.960dupA[p.Ser321IlefsX43] and c.2491-2A> G) and two deep-intronic variants (c.3718-2477C>T and c.3874-4522A> G) were identified, which were also quite rare among Chinese. Conclusions The genetic spectrum of CF in Chinese is unique and quite different from that observed in Caucasians. The geographical distributions of the most frequent variants were reported for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Complete mesocolic excision (CME) surgery is increasingly implemented for the resection of right-sided colonic cancer, possibly resulting in improved 5-year overall and disease-free survival compared to non-CME surgery. However, it is not clear what surgical platform should be used. The aim of this study was to compare the following outcomes between robot-assisted and laparoscopic CME-surgery for right-sided colonic cancer: (i) short-term clinical outcomes, (ii) pathological specimen quality, and (iii) long-term oncological outcomes. Methods: Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were searched from inception until August 2021. Pooled proportions were calculated by applying the inverse variance method. Heterogeneity was explored by I-square and supplemented by sensitivity- and meta-regression analyses. The risk of bias was evaluated by either MINORS or Cochrane's risk-of-bias tool (RoB 2). Results: Fifty-five studies with 5.357 patients (740 robot-assisted and 4617 laparoscopic) were included in the meta-analysis. Overall postoperative morbidity was 17% [95% CI (14–20%)] in the robot-assisted group and 13% [95%CI (12–13%)] in the laparoscopic group. Robot-assisted CME was associated with a shorter hospital stay, lower intraoperative blood loss, a higher amount of harvested lymph nodes, and better 3-year oerall and disease-free survival. MINORS and RoB2 indicated a serious risk of bias across studies included. Conclusions: This review which includes predominantly non-randomized studies suggests a possible advantage of the robot-assisted CME compared with a laparoscopic technique for several short-term outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Beta-thalassemia (BT) has a high prevalence in Mediterranean, Southeast Asian, and African countries. Studies stated that thalassemia is an endemic disease that causes significant health problems in Cyprus. This study aimed to measure the contact angle between the implant and blood samples from BT major patients and healthy individuals to compare the contact angles and wettability of Grade 5 titanium implant surfaces. Materials and Methods: Grade 5 titanium discs that were 10 mm in diameter were used since they mimic the surface of dental implants. Following receiving informed consent, blood samples were taken from the patients' index fingers in each group with lancet needles and a photo of the contact angle between the blood samples and the titanium surface was taken; the collected blood was transferred to a titanium disc with a medical pipette. ImageJ software with a specific contact angle plugin was used for the contact angle measurements. Results: Theta-mean, theta-circular, and theta-ellipse values were compared between all groups, and no significant difference was found (p > 0.05). Conclusions: In this study, it was hypothesized that the patients' rheological property of decreased deformability would affect the wettability of implant surfaces in vitro; however, no such finding was reached in this study. Since in-depth studies associated with dental implant success in BTM patients are absent in the literature and Cyprus is one of the Mediterranean countries with a high prevalence of BTM, this study was conducted to enrich the literature. While some systemic diseases may affect the contact angle between the implant surface and blood, it can be concluded that this condition was not present for BTM patients in our study. Last but not least, we emphasize that this experiment was done on a single surface type and the results can be totally different when using other surface types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A significant part of the current research in the field of Artificial Intelligence is devoted to knowledge bases. New techniques and methodologies are emerging every day for the storage, maintenance and reasoning over knowledge bases. Recently, the most common way of representing knowledge bases is by means of graph structures. More specifically, according to the Semantic Web perspective, many knowledge sources are in the form of a graph adopting the Resource Description Framework model. At the same time, graphs have also started to gain momentum as a model for databases. Graph DBMSs, such as Neo4j, adopt the Labeled Property Graph model. Many works tried to merge these two perspectives. In this paper, we will overview different proposals aimed at combining these two aspects, especially focusing on possibility for them to add reasoning capabilities. In doing this, we will show current trends, issues and possible solutions. In this context, we will describe our proposal and its novelties with respect to the current state of the art, highlighting its current status, potential, the methodology, and our prospect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lipoid pneumonia is a rare benign lung disease pathologically characterized by the presence of lipids in the alveoli. It may mimic lung malignancy on radiological imaging. In this case report we present a case of lipoid pneumonia that radiologically manifested as a lung mass and summarize the typical investigation findings and the management of the disease from the literature review to serve as a reminder of and refresh our knowledge of this rare disease entity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When studying the relationship between diseases and gut microbiota, in addition to using animal models, it is also necessary to study human gut microbiota. Many food components (such as phytochemicals, complex carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, etc.) have been found to have various biological activities. Subsequent research on modifying gut microbiota through bioactive nutrients to achieve health promotion needs to be carried out in more research on targeted microbiota therapies and clinical randomized trials. Based on dietary intake and the availability of nutrients in the intestine, human gut microbiota can produce harmful metabolites that cause human diseases or beneficial compounds that prevent host diseases [[1]]. [Extracted from the article]

Potato is the most consumed vegetable worldwide. Potato tubers contain water, starch, proteins, minerals, and vitamins. The amounts of these chemicals depend on the cultivar and growing location. When potatoes are exposed to high temperatures during the growing period, tuber yield and quality are detrimentally affected; however, there is limited knowledge about the influence of high temperatures on tuber chemical composition. With temperatures rising around the globe, the reaction of potato cultivars to high temperatures is increasingly important, and heat-induced changes, including changes in the chemical composition of tubers, should be considered. The Texas A&M University Potato Breeding Program has been selecting potato clones under high-temperature conditions for many years. Several released cultivars are considered heat-tolerant based on high marketable yields and low internal and external tuber defects. In this study, we used Raman spectroscopy (RS), an analytical tool, to determine whether heat stress causes changes in the chemical composition of tubers of ten potato cultivars. RS is a non-invasive method that requires less time and labor than conventional chemical analysis. We found drastic changes in the intensities of vibrational bands that originate from carbohydrates in the spectra acquired from tubers of heat-stressed plants compared to tubers produced by potato plants grown under normal conditions. These results demonstrate that RS could be used as a replacement or complement to conventional chemical analysis to inspect the effect of heat stress on tuber chemical composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the next twenty years, the scarcity of food shortage and drinking water will appear in Egypt due to the growth of industries and agriculture. This paper develops a conceptual design of the new technologies in the field of water–energy–food in new cities. Border lines are the internal relationship, external influence, and linkage system evaluation for WEF nexus. The major problems of using fossil energy in desalination are emissions and non-renewability, as well as the preference for dispersed freshwater production instead of concentrated output. The design of a desalination system that is integrated with renewable energies is critical these days. This type of system can also reduce the production of environmental pollutants due to reduced energy consumption and transfer of freshwater. GIS data from the United Nations have confirmed the existence of an underground reservoir in Wadi-Dara that can cultivate 1000 acres using smart farming techniques to reach a circular economy for an integrated solution between the water–energy nexus. The possibility of cultivating a hundred acres in Wadi-Dara on the Red Sea coast exists, through which about one million people could be settled. In this comprehensive review, we conducted a deep study in order to establish a sustainable integrated lifestyle in the Dara Valley region in terms of the availability of potable water, clean energy, and agriculture. Sustainable integrated solutions were conducted for seawater desalination using beach sand filtration wells as a pretreatment for seawater using renewable energy, e.g., wind energy (18% wind turbines), and photovoltaic panels (77% PV panels). Strategic food will be cultivated using smart farming that includes an open ponds cultivation system of microalgal cells to synthesis (5.0% of bio-fuel (. Aqua agriculture and aquaponics will cultivate marine culture and integrate mangrove, a shrimp aquaculture. A municipal waste water treatment is conceived for the irrigation of shrubby forests and landscapes. Mixotrophic cultures were explored to achieve a sustained ecological balance. Food, poultry and animal waste management, as well as a cooker factory, were included in the overall design. The environmental impact assessment (EIA) study shows a low risk due to anticipated net zero emissions, a 75% green city, and optimal waste recycling. This research assists in combining research efforts to address the challenging processes in nexus research and build resilient and sustainable water, energy, and food systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]