DPAL-BERT:A Faster and Lighter Question Answering Model

Recent advancements in natural language processing have given rise to numerous pre-training language models in question-answering systems.However,with the constant evolution of algorithms,data,and computing power,the increasing size and complexity of these models have led to increased training costs and reduced efficiency.This study aims to minimize the inference time of such models while maintaining computational performance.It also proposes a novel Distillation model for PAL-BERT(DPAL-BERT),specifically,employs knowledge distillation,using the PAL-BERT model as the teacher model to train two student models:DPAL-BERT-Bi and DPAL-BERTC.This research enhances the dataset through techniques such as masking,replacement,and n-gram sampling to optimize knowledge transfer.The experimental results showed that the distilled models greatly outperform models trained from scratch.In addition,although the distilled models exhibit a slight decrease in performance compared to PAL-BERT,they significantly reduce inference time to just 0.25%of the original.This demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed approach in balancing model performance and efficiency.

Autologous peripheral blood-derived orthobiologics:Different types and their effectiveness in managing knee osteoarthritis

Knees are the most commonly impacted weight-bearing joints in osteoarthritis(OA),affecting millions of people worldwide.With increasing life spans and obesity rates,the incidence of knee OA will further increase,leading to a significant increase in the economic burden.Conventional treatment modalities utilized to manage knee OA have limitations.Over the last decade,the role of various autologous peripheral blood-derived orthobiologics(APBOs)for the treatment of knee OA has been extensively investigated.This editorial provided an overview and focused on defining and shedding light on the current state of evidence based on the most recent published clinical studies concerning the use of APBO for the management of knee OA.While numerous studies have demonstrated promising results for these preparations,a notable gap exists in the comparative analysis of these diverse formulations.This absence of head-to-head studies poses a considerable challenge for physicians/surgeons in determining the optimal preparation for managing knee OA and achieving sustained longterm results.Thus,more adequately powered,multicenter,prospective,doubleblind,randomized controlled trials with longer follow-ups are needed to establish the long-term efficacy and to aid physicians/surgeons in determining the optimal APBO for the management of knee OA.

Novel insights into D-Pinitol based therapies:a link between tau hyperphosphorylation and insulin resistance

Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the amyloid accumulation in the brains of patients with Alzheimer’s disease.The pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease is mainly mediated by the phosphorylation and aggregation of tau protein.Among the multiple causes of tau hyperphosphorylation,brain insulin resistance has generated much attention,and inositols as insulin sensitizers,are currently considered candidates for drug development.The present narrative review revises the interactions between these three elements:Alzheimer’s disease-tau-inositols,which can eventually identify targets for new disease modifiers capable of bringing hope to the millions of people affected by this devastating disease.

Ecological problems and ecological restoration zoning of the Aral Sea

The Aral Sea was the fourth largest lake in the world but it has shrunk dramatically as a result of irrational human activities, triggering the "Aral Sea ecological crisis". The ecological problems of the Aral Sea have attracted widespread attention, and the alleviation of the Aral Sea ecological crisis has reached a consensus among the five Central Asian countries(Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkmenistan). In the past decades, many ecological management measures have been implemented for the ecological restoration of the Aral Sea. However, due to the lack of regional planning and zoning, the results are not ideal. In this study, we mapped the ecological zoning of the Aral Sea from the perspective of ecological restoration based on soil type, soil salinity, surface water, groundwater table, Normalized Difference Vegetation Index(NDVI), land cover, and aerosol optical depth(AOD) data. Soil salinization and salt dust are the most prominent ecological problems in the Aral Sea. We divided the Aral Sea into 7 first-level ecological restoration subregions(North Aral Sea catchment area in the downstream of the Syr Darya River(Subregion Ⅰ);artificial flood overflow area in the downstream of the Aral Sea(Subregion Ⅱ);physical/chemical remediation area of the salt dust source area in the eastern part of the South Aral Sea(Subregion Ⅲ);physical/chemical remediation area of severe salinization in the central part of the South Aral Sea(Subregion Ⅳ);existing water surface and potential restoration area of the South Aral Sea(Subregion Ⅴ);Aral Sea vegetation natural recovery area(Subregion Ⅵ);and vegetation planting area with slight salinization in the South Aral Sea(Subregion Ⅶ)) and 14 second-level ecological restoration subregions according to the ecological zoning principles. Implementable measures are proposed for each ecological restoration subregion. For Subregion Ⅰ and Subregion Ⅱ with lower elevations, artificial flooding should be carried out to restore the surface of the Aral Sea. Subregion Ⅲ and Subregion Ⅳ have severe salinization, making it difficult for vegetation to grow. In these subregions, it is recommended to cover and pave the areas with green biomatrix coverings and environmentally sustainable bonding materials. In Subregion Ⅴ located in the central and western parts of the South Aral Sea, surface water recharge should be increased to ensure that this subregion can maintain normal water levels. In Subregion Ⅵ and Subregion Ⅶ where natural conditions are suitable for vegetation growth, measures such as afforestation and buffer zones should be implemented to protect vegetation. This study could provide a reference basis for future comprehensive ecological management and restoration of the Aral Sea.

Low-Cost Federated Broad Learning for Privacy-Preserved Knowledge Sharing in the RIS-Aided Internet of Vehicles

High-efficiency and low-cost knowledge sharing can improve the decision-making ability of autonomous vehicles by mining knowledge from the Internet of Vehicles(IoVs).However,it is challenging to ensure high efficiency of local data learning models while preventing privacy leakage in a high mobility environment.In order to protect data privacy and improve data learning efficiency in knowledge sharing,we propose an asynchronous federated broad learning(FBL)framework that integrates broad learning(BL)into federated learning(FL).In FBL,we design a broad fully connected model(BFCM)as a local model for training client data.To enhance the wireless channel quality for knowledge sharing and reduce the communication and computation cost of participating clients,we construct a joint resource allocation and reconfigurable intelligent surface(RIS)configuration optimization framework for FBL.The problem is decoupled into two convex subproblems.Aiming to improve the resource scheduling efficiency in FBL,a double Davidon–Fletcher–Powell(DDFP)algorithm is presented to solve the time slot allocation and RIS configuration problem.Based on the results of resource scheduling,we design a reward-allocation algorithm based on federated incentive learning(FIL)in FBL to compensate clients for their costs.The simulation results show that the proposed FBL framework achieves better performance than the comparison models in terms of efficiency,accuracy,and cost for knowledge sharing in the IoV.

A novel approach to the dynamic response analysis of Euler-Bernoulli beams resting on a Winkler soil model and subjected to impact loads

This work presents a novel approach to the dynamic response analysis of a Euler-Bernoulli beam resting on a Winkler soil model and subjected to an impact loading.The approach considers that damping has much less importance in controlling the maximum response to impulsive loadings because the maximum response is reached in a very short time,before the damping forces can dissipate a significant portion of the energy input into the system.The development of two sine series solutions,relating to different types of impulsive loadings,one involving a single concentrated force and the other a distributed line load,are presented.This study revealed that when a simply supported Euler-Bernoulli beam,resting on a Winkler soil model,is subject to an impact load,the resulting vertical displacements,bending moments and shear forces produced along the span of the beam are considerably affected.In particular,the quantification of this effect is best observed,relative to the corresponding static solution,via an amplification factor.The computed impact amplification factors,for the sub-grade moduli used in this study,were in magnitude greater than 2,thus confirming the multiple-degree-of-freedom nature of the problem.

Insights and reviews on battery lifetime prediction from research to practice

The rising demand for energy storage solutions,especially in the electric vehicle and renewable energy sectors,highlights the importance of accurately predicting battery health to enhance their longevity and reliability.This article comprehensively examines various methods used to forecast battery health,including physics-based models,empirical models,and equivalent circuit models,among others.It delves into the promise of data-driven prognostics,utilizing both conventional machine learning and cuttingedge deep neural network techniques.The advantages and limitations of hybrid models are thoroughly analyzed,with a focus on the benefits of integrating diverse data sources to improve prognostic precision.Through practical case studies,the article showcases the effectiveness and flexibility of these approaches.It also critically addresses the challenges encountered in applying battery health prognostics in realworld scenarios,such as issues of scalability,complexity,and data anomalies.Despite these challenges,the article underscores the emerging opportunities brought about by recent technological,academic,and research advancements.These include the development of digital twin models for batteries,the use of data-centric AI and standardized benchmarking,the potential integration of blockchain technology for enhanced data security and transparency,and the synergy between edge and cloud computing to boost data analysis and processing.The primary goal of this article is to enrich the understanding of current battery health prognostic techniques and to inspire further research aimed at overcoming existing hurdles and tapping into new opportunities.It concludes with a visionary perspective on future research directions and potential developments in this evolving field,encouraging both researchers and practitioners to explore innovative solutions.

Optimisation of Thermal Comfort of Building in a Hot and Dry Tropical Climate: A Comparative Approach between Compressed Earth/Concrete Block Envelopes

Compressed earth blocks (CEB) are an alternative to cement blocks in the construction of wall masonry. However, the optimal architectural construction methods for adequate thermal comfort for occupants in hot and arid environments are not mastered. This article evaluates the influence of architectural and constructive modes of buildings made of CEB walls and concrete block walls, to optimize and compare their thermal comfort in the hot and dry tropical climate of Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. Two identical pilot buildings whose envelopes are made of CEB and concrete blocks were monitored for this study. The thermal models of the pilot buildings were implemented in the SketchUp software using an extension of EnergyPlus. The models were empirically validated after calibration against measured thermal data from the buildings. The models were used to do a parametric analysis for optimization of the thermal performances by simulating plaster coatings on the exterior of walls, airtight openings and natural ventilation depending on external weather conditions. The results show that the CEB building displays 7016 hours of discomfort, equivalent to 80.1% of the time, and the concrete building displays 6948 hours of discomfort, equivalent to 79.3% of the time. The optimization by modifications reduced the discomfort to 2918 and 3125 hours respectively;i.e. equivalent to only 33.3% for the CEB building and 35.7% for the concrete building. More study should evaluate thermal optimizations in buildings in real time of usage such as residential buildings commonly used by the local middle class. The use of CEB as a construction material and passive means of improving thermal comfort is a suitable ecological and economical option to replace cementitious material.

Advanced Sheet Pile Curtain Design: Case Study of Cotonou East Corniche

This paper delves into the critical aspects of sheet pile walls in civil engineering, highlighting their versatility in soil protection, retention, and waterproofing, all while emphasizing sustainability and efficient construction practices. The paper explores two fundamental approaches to sheet pile design: limit equilibrium methods and numerical techniques, with a particular focus on finite element analysis. Utilizing the robust PLAXIS 2016 calculation code based on the finite element method and employing a simplified elastoplastic model (Mohr-Coulomb), this study meticulously models the interaction between sheet pile walls and surrounding soil. The research offers valuable insights into settlement and deformation patterns that adjacent buildings may experience during various construction phases. The central objective of this paper is to present the study’s findings and recommend potential mitigation measures for settlement effects on nearby structures. By unraveling the intricate interplay between sheet pile wall construction and neighboring buildings, the paper equips engineers and practitioners to make informed decisions that ensure the safety and integrity of the built environment. In the context of the Cotonou East Corniche development, the study addresses the limitations of existing software, such as RIDO, in predicting settlements and deformations affecting nearby buildings due to the substantial load supported by sheet pile walls. This information gap necessitates a comprehensive study to assess potential impacts on adjacent structures and propose suitable mitigation measures. The research underscores the intricate dynamics between sheet pile wall construction and its influence on the local environment. It emphasizes the critical importance of proactive engineering and vigilant monitoring in managing and mitigating potential hazards to nearby buildings. To mitigate these risks, the paper recommends measures such as deep foundations, ground improvement techniques, and retrofitting. The findings presented in this study contribute significantly to the field of civil engineering and offer invaluable insights into the multifaceted dynamics of construction-induced settlement. The study underscores the importance of continuous evaluation and coordination between construction teams and building owners to effectively manage the impacts of sheet pile wall construction on adjacent structures.

Enhanced autophagic clearance of amyloid-βvia histone deacetylase 6-mediated V-ATPase assembly and lysosomal acidification protects against Alzheimer's disease in vitro and in vivo

Recent studies have suggested that abnormal acidification of lysosomes induces autophagic accumulation of amyloid-βin neurons,which is a key step in senile plaque formation.Therefore,resto ring normal lysosomal function and rebalancing lysosomal acidification in neurons in the brain may be a new treatment strategy for Alzheimer's disease.Microtubule acetylation/deacetylation plays a central role in lysosomal acidification.Here,we show that inhibiting the classic microtubule deacetylase histone deacetylase 6 with an histone deacetylase 6 shRNA or thehistone deacetylase 6 inhibitor valproic acid promoted lysosomal reacidification by modulating V-ATPase assembly in Alzheimer's disease.Fu rthermore,we found that treatment with valproic acid markedly enhanced autophagy.promoted clearance of amyloid-βaggregates,and ameliorated cognitive deficits in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease.Our findings demonstrate a previously unknown neuroprotective mechanism in Alzheimer's disease,in which histone deacetylase 6 inhibition by valproic acid increases V-ATPase assembly and lysosomal acidification.

Effect of Aspergillus niger prolyl endopeptidase in patients with celiac disease on a long-term gluten-free diet

BACKGROUND The gluten-free diet(GFD)has limitations,and there is intense research in the development of adjuvant therapies.AIM To examine the effects of orally administered Aspergillus niger prolyl endopeptidase protease(AN-PEP)on inadvertent gluten exposure and symptom prevention in adult celiac disease(CeD)patients following their usual GFD.METHODS This was an exploratory,double-blind,randomized,placebo-controlled trial that enrolled CeD patients on a long-term GFD.After a 4-wk run-in period,patients were randomized to 4 wk of two AN-PEP capsules(GliadinX;AVI Research,LLC,United States)at each of three meals per day or placebo.Outcome endpoints were:(1)Average weekly stool gluten immunogenic peptides(GIP)between the run-in and end of treatments and between AN-PEP and placebo;(2)celiac symptom index(CSI);(3)CeD-specific serology;and(4)quality of life.Stool samples were collected for GIP testing by ELISA every Tuesday and Friday during run-ins and treatments.RESULTS Forty patients were randomized for the intention-to-treat analysis,and three were excluded from the per-protocol assessment.Overall,628/640(98.1%)stool samples were collected.GIP was undetectable(<0.08μg/g)in 65.6%of samples,and no differences between treatment arms were detected.Only 0.5%of samples had GIP concentrations sufficiently high(>0.32μg/g)to potentially cause mucosal damage.Median GIP concentration in the AN-PEP arm was 44.7%lower than in the run-in period.One-third of patients exhibiting GIP>0.08μg/g during run-in had lower or undetectable GIP after AN-PEP treatment.Compared with the run-in period,the proportion of symptomatic patients(CSI>38)in the AN-PEP arm was significantly lower(P<0.03).AN-PEP did not result in changes in specific serologies.CONCLUSION This exploratory study conducted in a real-life setting revealed high adherence to the GFD.The AN-PEP treatment did not significantly reduce the overall GIP stool concentration.However,given the observation of a significantly lower prevalence of patients with severe symptoms in the AN-PEP arm,further clinical research is warranted.

Nonaqueous potassium-ion full-cells:Mapping the progress and identifying missing puzzle pieces

This review addresses the growing interest for potassium-ion full-cells(KIFCs)in view of the transition from potassium-ion half-cells(KIHCs)toward commercial K-ion batteries(KIBs).It focuses on the key parameters of KIFCs such as the electrode/electrolyte interfaces challenge,major barriers,and recent advancements in KIFCs.The strategies for enhancing KIFC performance,including interfaces co ntrol,electrolyte optimization,electrodes capacity ratio,electrode material screening and electrode design,are discussed.The review highlights the need to evaluate KIBs in full-cell configurations as half-cell results are strongly impacted by the K metal reactivity.It also emphasizes the importance of understanding solid electrolyte interphase(SEI)formation in KIFCs and explores promising nonaqueous as well as quasiand all-solid-state electrolytes options.This review thus paves the way for practical,cost-effective,and scalable KIBs as energy storage systems by offering insights and guidance for future research.

Event-triggered robust cooperative output regulation for a class of linear multi-agent systems with an unknown exosystem

This paper investigates the robust cooperative output regulation problem for a class of heterogeneousuncertain linear multi-agent systems with an unknown exosystem via event-triggered control (ETC). By utilizingthe internal model approach and the adaptive control technique, a distributed adaptive internal model isconstructed for each agent. Then, based on this internal model, a fully distributed ETC strategy composed ofa distributed event-triggered adaptive output feedback control law and a distributed dynamic event-triggeringmechanism is proposed, in which each agent updates its control input at its own triggering time instants. It isshown that under the proposed ETC strategy, the robust cooperative output regulation problem can be solvedwithout requiring either the global information associated with the communication topology or the bounds ofthe uncertain or unknown parameters in each agent and the exosystem. A numerical example is provided toillustrate the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy.

Regional economic assessment of a novel place-based model for sustainable food systems

Several actions from both the environmental and human viewpoints have already been made to meet the sustainability goals targeted at food systems.Still,new place-based ideas to improve sustainability are needed.Agroecological symbiosis(AES),a novel food system model,is an example of a suggested system-level change to attain sustainability targets;it is a symbiosis of food production and processing using renewable energy that uses its own feedstock.AES has already been found advantageous from the ecological and biophysical viewpoints,but a regional economic evaluation of the model is still lacking.Thus,the aim of our paper is to assess the regional economic impact of a possible systemic change in the food system using the network of agroecological symbiosis(NAES)as an example.We applied scenarios representing different ways of moving towards envisioned NAES models in Mäntsälä,Finland,and a computable general equilibrium model to evaluate the regional economic impact.According to our results,both regional economy and employment would increase,and the regional production base would diversify with NAES implementation applied to the region,but the extent of the benefits varies between scenarios.The scenario that includes change in both public and private food demand,production of bioenergy and utilization of by-products would cause the largest impacts.However,realizing NAES requires investments that may influence the actual implementation of such models.Nonetheless,a change towards NAES can promote an economically and spatially just transition to sustainability,as NAES seems to be economically most beneficial for rural areas.

A novel histone methyltransferase gene Cg SDG40 positively regulates carotenoid biosynthesis during citrus fruit ripening

The flesh color of pummelo(Citrus maxima)fruits is highly diverse and largely depends on the level of carotenoids,which are beneficial to human health.It is vital to investigate the regulatory network of carotenoid biosynthesis to improve the carotenoid content in pummelo.However,the molecular mechanism underlying carotenoid accumulation in pummelo is not fully understood.In this study,we identified a novel histone methyltransferase gene,CgSDG40,involved in carotenoid regulation by analyzing the flesh transcriptome of typical white-fleshed pummelo,red-fleshed pummelo and extreme-colored F1 hybrids from a segregated pummelo population.Expression of CgSDG40 corresponded to flesh color change and was highly coexpressed with CgPSY1.Interestingly,CgSDG40 and CgPSY1 are located physically adjacent to each other on the chromosome in opposite directions,sharing a partially overlapping promoter region.Subcellular localization analysis indicated that CgSDG40 localizes to the nucleus.Overexpression of CgSDG40 significantly increased the total carotenoid content in citrus calli relative to that in wild type.In addition,expression of CgPSY1 was significantly activated in overexpression lines relative to wild type.Taken together,our findings reveal a novel histone methyltransferase regulator,CgSDG40,involved in the regulation of carotenoid biosynthesis in citrus and provide new strategies for molecular design breeding and genetic improvement of fruit color and nutritional quality.

Therapeutic advances in neural regeneration for Huntington’s disease

Huntington’s disease is a neurodegenerative disease caused by the expansion mutation of a cytosine-adenine-guanine triplet in the exon 1 of the HTT gene which is responsible for the production of the huntingtin (Htt) protein. In physiological conditions, Htt is involved in many cellular processes such as cell signaling, transcriptional regulation, energy metabolism regulation, DNA maintenance, axonal trafficking, and antiapoptotic activity. When the genetic alteration is present, the production of a mutant version of Htt (mHtt) occurs, which is characterized by a plethora of pathogenic activities that, finally, lead to cell death. Among all the cells in which mHtt exerts its dangerous activity, the GABAergic Medium Spiny Neurons seem to be the most affected by the mHtt-induced excitotoxicity both in the cortex and in the striatum. However, as the neurodegeneration proceeds ahead the neuronal loss grows also in other brain areas such as the cerebellum, hypothalamus, thalamus, subthalamic nucleus, globus pallidus, and substantia nigra, determining the variety of symptoms that characterize Huntington’s disease. From a clinical point of view, Huntington’s disease is characterized by a wide spectrum of symptoms spanning from motor impairment to cognitive disorders and dementia. Huntington’s disease shows a prevalence of around 3.92 cases every 100,000 worldwide and an incidence of 0.48 new cases every 100,000/year. To date, there is no available cure for Huntington’s disease. Several treatments have been developed so far, aiming to reduce the severity of one or more symptoms to slow down the inexorable decline caused by the disease. In this context, the search for reliable strategies to target the different aspects of Huntington’s disease become of the utmost interest. In recent years, a variety of studies demonstrated the detrimental role of neuronal loss in Huntington’s disease condition highlighting how the replacement of lost cells would be a reasonable strategy to overcome the neurodegeneration. In this view, numerous have been the attempts in several preclinical models of Huntington’s disease to evaluate the feasibility of invasive and non-invasive approaches. Thus, the aim of this review is to offer an overview of the most appealing approaches spanning from stem cell-based cell therapy to extracellular vesicles such as exosomes in light of promoting neurogenesis, discussing the results obtained so far, their limits and the future perspectives regarding the neural regeneration in the context of Huntington’s disease.

Effect of weight-adjusted antimicrobial antibiotic prophylaxis on postoperative dosage and surgical site infection incidence in total joint arthroplasty

Surgical site infections(SSI)following total joint arthroplasty pose a significant concern for both providers and patients across the globe.Currently,administration of antimicrobial antibiotic prophylaxis is used throughout the world to reduce the incidence of SSI.However,the correct dosage and frequency of administration remains debatable.In this editorial,we emphasized the determination of the effect of administration of weight-adjusted antimicrobial antibiotic prophylaxis regime on the incidence of SSI and postoperative dosage reduction compared to the conventionally used regime during total joint arthroplasty.The results demonstrated similar efficacy between both regimes with respect to the incidence of SSI.In addition,weight-adjustment led to reduced postoperative dosage and has the potential to reduce chances of achieving lower therapeutic concentration,drug resistance,drug toxicity,and costs.

Innovative Techniques Unveiled in Advanced Sheet Pile Curtain Design

This thorough review explores the complexities of geotechnical engineering, emphasizing soil-structure interaction (SSI). The investigation centers on sheet pile design, examining two primary methodologies: Limit Equilibrium Methods (LEM) and Soil-Structure Interaction Methods (SSIM). While LEM methods, grounded in classical principles, provide valuable insights for preliminary design considerations, they may encounter limitations in addressing real-world complexities. In contrast, SSIM methods, including the SSI-SR approach, introduce precision and depth to the field. By employing numerical techniques such as Finite Element (FE) and Finite Difference (FD) analyses, these methods enable engineers to navigate the dynamics of soil-structure interaction. The exploration extends to SSI-FE, highlighting its essential role in civil engineering. By integrating Finite Element analysis with considerations for soil-structure interaction, the SSI-FE method offers a holistic understanding of how structures dynamically interact with their geotechnical environment. Throughout this exploration, the study dissects critical components governing SSIM methods, providing engineers with tools to navigate the intricate landscape of geotechnical design. The study acknowledges the significance of the Mohr-Coulomb constitutive model while recognizing its limitations, and guiding practitioners toward informed decision-making in geotechnical analyses. As the article concludes, it underscores the importance of continuous learning and innovation for the future of geotechnical engineering. With advancing technology and an evolving understanding of soil-structure interaction, the study remains committed to ensuring the safety, stability, and efficiency of geotechnical structures through cutting-edge design and analysis techniques.

Preclinical and clinical evidence of the association of colibactinproducing Escherichia coli with anxiety and depression in colon cancer

BACKGROUND The association between the intestinal microbiota and psychiatric disorders is becoming increasingly apparent.The gut microbiota contributes to colorectal carcinogenesis(CRC),as demonstrated with colibactin-producing Escherichia coli(CoPEC).AIM To evaluate the association between CoPEC prevalence and anxiety-and depressive-like behaviors with both preclinical and clinical approaches.METHODS Patients followed after a CRC surgery and for whom the prevalence of CoPEC has been investigated underwent a psychiatric interview.Results were compared according to the CoPEC colonization.In parallel C57BL6/J wild type mice and mice with a CRC susceptibility were chronically infected with a CoPEC strain.Their behavior was assessed using the Elevated Plus Maze test,the Forced Swimming Test and the Behavior recognition system PhenoTyper®.RESULTS In a limited cohort,all patients with CoPEC colonization presented with psychiatric disorders several years before cancer diagnosis,whereas only one patient(17%)without CoPEC did.This result was confirmed in C57BL6/J wildtype mice and in a CRC susceptibility mouse model(adenomatous polyposis colimultiple intestinal neoplasia/+).Mice exhibited a significant increase in anxiety-and depressive-like behaviors after chronic infection with a CoPEC strain.CONCLUSION This finding provides the first evidence that CoPEC infection can induce microbiota-gut-brain axis disturbances in addition to its procarcinogenic properties.

A Chinese Multi-Specialty Delphi Consensus to Optimize RAASi Usage and Hyperkalaemia Management in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease and Heart Failure

Objective Variations are present in common clinical practices regarding best practice in managing hyperkalaemia(HK),there is therefore a need to establish a multi-specialty approach to optimal renin angiotension-aldosterone system inhibitors(RAASi)usage and HK management in patients with chronic kidney disease(CKD)&heart failure(HF).This study aimed to establish a multi-speciality approach to the optimal use of RAASi and the management of HK in patients with CKD and HF.Methods A steering expert group of cardiology and nephrology experts across China were convened to discuss challenges to HK management through a nominal group technique.The group then created a list of 41 statements for a consensus questionnaire,which was distributed for a further survey in extended panel group of cardiologists and nephrologists across China.Consensus was assessed using a modified Delphi technique,with agreement defined as"strong"(≥75%and<90%)and"very strong"(≥90%).The steering group,data collection,and analysis were aided by an independent facilitator.Results A total of 150 responses from 21 provinces across China were recruited in the survey.Respondents were comprised of an even split(n=75,50%)between cardiologists and nephrologists.All 41 statements achieved the 75%consensus agreement threshold,of which 27 statements attained very strong consensus(≥90%agreement)and 14 attained strong consensus(agreement between 75%and 90%).Conclusion Based on the agreement levels from respondents,the steering group agreed a set of recommendations intended to improve patient outcomes in the use of RAASi therapy and HK management in China.