bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PIN1 Prolyl Isomerase Promotes Initiation and Progression of Bladder Cancer through the SREBP2-Mediated Cholesterol Biosynthesis Pathway
Authors: Wang Xue , Lee Derrick , Xu Haibo , Sui Yuan , Meisenhelder Jill , Hunter Tony
Published: January 2025

Identities of functional pSer-Thr.Pro protein substrates of the PIN1 prolyl isomerase and its effects on downstream signaling in bladder carcinogenesis remain largely unknown. Phenotypically, we found that PIN1 positively regulated bladder cancer cell proliferation, cell motility, and urothelium clearance capacity in vitro and controlled tumor growth and potential metastasis in vivo. Mechanistically, we observed a negative enrichment of SREBP2-driven cholesterol metabolism pathways and a decrease in free/total cholesterol levels in PIN1-knockout bladder cancer cells. Moreover, we showed that PIN1 interacted with SREBP2 following its phosphorylation by the JNK MAP kinase at Ser455, which lies near the site-2 cleavage site that generates the active, nuclear form of SREBP2. Therapeutically, a combination of the covalent PIN1 inhibitor sulfopin and the HMGCoA reductase inhibitor simvastatin synergistically suppressed cell proliferation in vitro and tumor growth in vivo. Together, these findings emphasize that PIN1 can act as a driver and potential therapeutic target in bladder cancer.

Significance:

This study provides deeper insights into the regulatory role of the phospho–dependent prolyl isomerase PIN1 in bladder cancer. The identification of the link between PIN1 and SREBP2-mediated transcription and cholesterol biosynthesis offers the potential for developing novel therapeutic strategies for bladder cancer.
Real-World Incidence of Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase Alterations in Hispanics with Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer at a Large Academic Institution in Los Angeles
Authors: Poei Darin , Ali Sana , Thomas Jacob S. , Nieva Jorge J. , Hsu Robert C.
Published: January 2025

Race and ethnicity affect the distribution of molecular alterations seen in patients with non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Although anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) alterations are known to occur in 4% to 5% of the population, data specific to the Hispanic population remain limited. This study describes the real-world incidence of ALK alterations in Hispanic patients with NSCLC treated at a large academic institution in Los Angeles, California, United States, to further elucidate the underlying factors that shape differences in mutational profiles. A total of 607 patients with NSCLC treated at Los Angeles General Medical Center (n = 172) and the University of Southern California Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center (n = 435) who received comprehensive genomic profiling were evaluated from January 2015 to June 2023. The Fisher exact test and multivariate logistic regression were incorporated for statistical analysis. Hispanic patients exhibited a higher incidence of ALK alterations (12.76%, n = 18/141) than non-Hispanic patients (5.36%, n = 23/466; P = 0.0046). Multivariate logistic regression showed that Hispanic ethnicity (HR, 2.393; 95% confidence interval, 1.115–5.092) and age at diagnosis (HR, 0.9325; 95% confidence interval, 0.9081–0.9558) were significant variables in ALK alteration incidence, and 55.81% (n = 24) of ALK alterations were initially found via comprehensive genomic profiling. This study highlights a significantly higher incidence of ALK alterations among Hispanic patients with NSCLC, emphasizing the impact of race and ethnicity on molecular alterations. Future research is required to evaluate this trend in a larger, more diverse cohort and investigate the roles of environmental factors and tumor microenvironments in influencing ALK alteration prevalence.

Significance:

This study identified a higher incidence of ALK alterations in Hispanic patients with NSCLC (12.76%) compared with that in non-Hispanic patients (5.36%) treated at a large academic center in Los Angeles, highlighting the impact of race on molecular alteration profiles and emphasizing the need to increase access to molecular analyses for this population. The variability in mutational alterations may be influenced by biological and environmental factors.
Stroke Subtypes Mortality Attributable to Smoking in China: A Study Based on the Global Burden of Disease Database 2021
Authors: Xiao Chunlong , Wang Jing , Cheng Zhao , Gong Jie , Yu Chuanhua
Published: January 2025

Background: The objective of this study was to analyze long-term trends in ischemic stroke (IS), subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) mortality from smoking in China from 1992 to 2021, to provide scientific advice on stroke prevention and treatment in China. Methods: The mortality data of smoking-related stroke and its subtypes in China during 1992–2021 were collected from the Global Burden of Disease 2021. Joinpoint regression model and Age-period-cohort (APC) model were used for trend analysis. Results: The age-standardized mortality rate of stroke and subtypes caused by smoking showed a decreasing trend in China from 1992 to 2021. The decline was greater for women than for men. According to APC model analysis, the age effect showed that ICH and IS showed an increasing trend, while SAH increased first and then decreased. The results of the cohort effect were similar to those of the period effect, with relative risk decreasing for all subtypes. The local drift showed that the stroke and subtypes in males showed a “U” shaped trend, a relatively stable trend for stroke and is in females, and a downward trend for SAH and ICH. Conclusions: Over the past 30 years, the burden of stroke and stroke subtype deaths attributable to smoking in China has decreased. However, future efforts should focus on preventing ICH. Strengthening tobacco control legislation, particularly targeting older men and young people, is crucial for further reducing smoking-related stroke risk.
Symptom Reporting in Patients with Primary Biliary Cholangitis: Higher Burden of Symptoms detection using an interactive App
Authors: Daza Jimmy , Espinosa-Montagut Nathally , Kautz Achim , Langenbacher Diane , Hetjens Michael , Siegel Fabian , Ebert Matthias P. , Teufel Andreas
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic autoimmune liver disease causing bile duct destruction and inflammation, impacting patient quality of life (QoL) due to variable symptoms. Digital symptom-tracker apps may improve patient care through enhanced monitoring. This feasibility study reassessed symptom burden in PBC patients using a tailored symptom-tracker app, focusing on its usability, effectiveness, and impact on management and QoL.

Methods: Methods: Based on Kautz5 gUG "Symptomtracker", our app in REDCap allowed users to log PBC symptoms over four weeks, alongside medication use. Ethics approval and data security complied with German regulations. User feedback was incorporated for better usability. Symptom data were standardized, and R software was used for descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests.

Results: From March 2023 to October 2024, 207 patients (184 female, 20 male) were enrolled, median age 51 years. Among 90 patients who completed the questionnaire, fatigue was most prevalent (87.8%), followed by joint pain (80%), concentration difficulties (74.4%), abdominal discomfort (70%), and sicca symptoms. Other common symptoms were leg cramps (50%) and swollen feet (40%); jaundice was rare (7.8%). Older patients, especially those aged 50–60, reported higher symptom burden, but Chi-square tests showed no significant differences across age or gender.

Conclusion: Our study highlights a significant symptom burden in PBC, particularly fatigue and joint pain. While older patients reported more symptoms, no significant differences were observed by age or gender. The symptom-tracker app enhanced monitoring and patient engagement, showing the potential of digital tools in PBC management. Further research is needed to evaluate long-term impacts.
A prognostic survival model based on endocrine-related gene expression in acute myelogenous leukemia
Authors: Lv Weiran , Wang Yun , Hu Fang , Huang Hanying , Cui Yingying , Song Yuanbin , Chen Lezong , Wu Bingyi , Liang Yang
Published: January 2025

Accurate prediction of survival in patients with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) is challenging. Therefore, we developed a predictive survival model using endocrine-related gene expression to identify an endocrine signature for accurate stratification of AML prognosis. RNA matrices and clinical data for AML were downloaded from a training dataset (GEO) and two validation datasets (TCGA and TARGET). In relation to the survival outcome, a risk model was constructed by incorporating seven endocrine-related genes. The model exhibited favorable predictive efficacy in estimating 5-year survival rates, as demonstrated by both the training and validation cohorts. Multivariable analysis revealed that the endocrine signature demonstrated autonomous prognostic significance in the aforementioned cohorts. Prediction accuracy for 5-year overall survival increased using a nomogram combining endocrine risk score and classical prognostic factors compared with using classical prognostic factors alone. The model predictions were confirmed using AML cell lines. The endocrine-related prognostic model established in this study improves AML survival prediction accuracy.
Influential Factors on Survival in Laryngeal Cancer and Treatment Modalities Comparison
Authors: So Cher Pin , Shin Yura , Ganesh Vaishnevy , Manickavasagam Jaiganesh Jai , Casasola Richard
Published: January 2025

Introduction
Laryngeal cancer (LC) is the most common malignancy in otolaryngology, comprising 30-40% of head and neck malignancies. With an increasing incidence worldwide over the past few decades, LC has resulted in substantial strain on the NHS. There have been notable advancements in the treatment of LC over the years, particularly with the adoption of non-surgical methods, which emerged after the 1991 study conducted by the Veterans Affairs. Nevertheless, there has been an increase in mortality rates for head and neck cancer by approximately 15% in the UK over the last decade. This study aims to evaluate the survival outcomes of patients with LC in our population, considering both the disease stage and treatment modality applied.
Methods
Retrospective data were collected from 2015 to 2019 for all patients who were diagnosed with primary LC at NHS Tayside. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine the factors associated with overall survival (OS) and disease-specific survival (DSS) in LC. Survival analysis using Kaplan-Meier curve was used to compare the treatment modalities in different stages of LC.
Results
Patients with advanced LC (stages 3 and 4) had more than five times risk of mortality compared to patients with early LC (stage 1 and 2) (DSS: HR 6.10, 95% CI 1.52 to 14.61, p =0.016; OS: HR 5.52, 95% CI 1.64 to 13.34, p=0.017). In patients with stage 4 LC, laryngectomy provides better survival outcomes than chemoradiotherapy (DSS: p=0.035; OS: p=0.046). In addition, DSS was double, and OS was three times higher for patients who received adjuvant radiotherapy following laryngectomy compared to patients who underwent laryngectomy alone (DSS: p=0.036; OS: p=0.032).
Conclusion
Our study supports that surgical treatment with adjuvant radiotherapy improves the survival outcomes of advanced LC and should be considered as first line treatment in patients who are fit for surgery. More prospective studies are needed to determine the optimal treatment approach for advanced LC with consideration of organ function, patient quality of life, and treatment related morbidity and mortality.
Modalización y aspectualización: operaciones del punto de vista. La escena múltiple de la caída en Segundos afuera, de Martín Kohan
Authors: Filinich María Isabel
Published: January 2025

En el texto Del sentido II, de Greimas (1989 [1983]), se otorga un lugar central a la reflexión sobre la modalización del discurso. En el presente trabajo, intentamos mostrar cómo la modalización y aspectualización, operaciones centrales del funcionamiento del discurso, se encuentran en la base de la configuración de los puntos de vista en la narración. Pensar la puesta en perspectiva en el horizonte abierto por Greimas, como así también por otros semiotistas colaboradores suyos, en las dimensiones cognitiva y pasional del discurso, permite reconocer el alcance y la importancia de los puntos de vista en la conformación de la significación. Para tal propósito, analizamos algunos fragmentos de la novela Segundos afuera, de Martín Kohan (2018).
La théorisation sémiotique des modalités et le statut de la vérité
Authors: Badir Sémir
Published: January 2025

This article dynamically rereads four of Greimas’s texts in Du sens II, which are devoted to the semiotic theorization of modalities. We begin by showing how this theorization relates to the progress of narrative semiotics, and in what direction it takes it. We then set out to clarify the problems it raises regarding the definition of modalities, their typology and their metalinguistic designations. Finally, given that this theorization encounters in these texts interests specific to the theory of logic (from which the very notion of modality is borrowed), we attempt to grant the notion of truth a status that is compatible with semiotic theory. To this end, a distinction is made between truth enunciated by default and modal enunciations (alethic and epistemic, no less than axiological and fiduciary) of truth.
Du sens II : les passions entre sémiotique narrative et sémiotique discursive
Authors: Fontanille Jacques
Published: January 2025

La conception des passions, dans le champ de la sémiotique structurale, est depuis le début, dans Sémantique structurale (Greimas), jusqu’à plus récemment dans Sémiotique des passions (Greimas et Fontanille) marquée par un double ancrage : un ancrage dans le système immanent des énoncés narratifs et des modalités des sujets d’état, et un autre ancrage dans la manifestation discursive et les articulations entre actions, interactions et passions. Cette étude, centrée sur Du sens II, navigue néanmoins entre l’amont et l’aval de cet ouvrage, et y compris chez les auteurs (Coquet, Landowski) qui ont pris quelque distance avec la sémiotique narrative de Greimas. On peut examiner en détail les conséquences de cette tension entre deux conceptions différentes de la passion, et ce détail, on le verra, explique bien des difficultés déjà identifiées. Mais on doit aussi tenter de résoudre cette tension, et plus explicitement articuler le système général des descripteurs disponibles, et les compositions catégorielles particulières (les régimes sémiotiques) dont la manifestation discursive se constitue.
Sobre o sentido II: fidelidade e mudança
Authors: Barros Diana Luz Pessoa de
Published: January 2025

This article aims to highlight some of the contributions the book Du sens II. Essais sémiotiques (1983) has brought to Discursive Semiotics, especially in Brazil. The discussion is organized into three sections: in the first section, for a general approach to the work, parts of the Preface written by the author for the Brazilian translation of Sobre o sentido II. Ensaios Semióticos, published in 2014, are revisited; in the second and third sections, two specific questions are examined, that of enunciation and that of veridiction, concepts whose trajectories have been drawn from the theoretical and methodological approach presented in Greimas’ book.
De la Sopa al pistou a la cocina con 20 soles: semiótica del valor entre lo estético y lo cotidiano
Authors: Macchiavello Óscar Quezada , Dongo Eduardo Yalán , Cuevas-Calderon Elder
Published: January 2025

El objetivo de este artículo es analizar las tensiones entre lo estético y lo utilitario en las representaciones culinarias, comparando la receta-parangón de la alta gastronomía con las recetas populares en plataformas digitales y televisivas como "20 Lucas". La metodología empleada es el análisis semiótico estructural, basado en los trabajos de Algirdas Julien Greimas y Émile Benveniste, enfocándose en cómo el lenguaje configura los objetos de valor en ambos contextos. El hallazgo principal revela que mientras las recetas clásicas, como la sopa al pistou, enfatizan el hedonismo estético y la estabilidad cultural, las recetas populares contemporáneas responden a un utilitarismo poético, adaptándose a restricciones económicas y prácticas cotidianas. Este artículo aporta una extensión crítica al análisis de Greimas al integrar las realidades económicas y mediáticas actuales, mostrando que la semiótica culinaria no solo debe enfocarse en el valor ideal, sino también en los procesos de ajuste y negociación que caracterizan las prácticas sociales contemporáneas.
História e Dialética do Esclarecimento: alegoria e crítica ao progresso
Authors: Teixeira Filho Francisco Luciano
Published: January 2025

O texto apresenta duas formas de compreender a história no interior da Dialética do esclarecimento. A primeira tem a função de denunciar as contradições do presente por meio da construção de alegorias. A segunda, por outro lado, tem uma compreensão da história como crítica do progresso. Na primeira concepção, a história constrói um retrato do presente; na segunda, a história tensiona com sua paralisia. Os dois casos, no entanto, servem ao plano político de esclarecer o esclarecimento.
História e autenticidade em Heidegger: o problema do determinismo no acontecimento apropriador
Authors: Moreira Nathalia Claro
Published: January 2025

The article discusses the authenticity of Dasein and the problem of determinism in Heidegger's onto-historical debate. Contrasting different, sometimes contradictory notions about time and history, it seeks to question whether, in his later phase, the philosopher became a historical determinist. After all, if, in Heidegger's interpretation, the major revelations of traditional metaphysics are now transmuted into the global framework that has appropriated the Seyn, is it possible to consider that the history of the Seyn is reduced to a totalization that subjugates the truth of all eras? What would be the relationship between Dasein and the Seyn in the event?
A fundamentação ontológica da estrutura ética do juízo estético no primeiro-romantismo alemão: para construção histórico-sistemática do Juízo Infinito
Authors: Ramos Gabriel  Loureiro Pereira da Mota
Published: January 2025

Reading the fragments of Schlegel and Novalis in Blüthenstaub (2016), the article seeks to understand how the romantic thinkers ontologize Kant's argument regarding aesthetic judgment. To do this, we read the Analitik des Schönen, from the Kritik der Urteilskraft (1974b), to understand how the ethical structure of aesthetic judgment, suggested in Kant only by the as-if clause, receives an ontological interpretation in Novalis and Schlegel. We thus develop the figure of unending judgment, a concept with which we seek to circumscribe the triple movement by which Schlegel and Novalis ontologically ground the ethical structure of aesthetic judgment.
Validation Status of Electronic Sphygmomanometers in China: A National Survey
Authors: Zhang Xianghui , Xu Zhimin , Yao Yingchun , Zheng Huilei , Wu Jian , Hu Jingwen , Wu Shenggen , Lyu Quanjun , Liu Yong , Wu Min , Chen Liangxia , Xu Lina , Zhou Haiyan , Duan Peifen , Dai Jianghong , Ding Hong , Wang Shuang , Zhao Yi , Hu Jihong , Zhu Liyue , Hai Rong , Zhong Baoliang , Zhu Huilian , Li Kui , Lu Yao , Tang Shaowen , Li Xingming , Zhang Yan , Chen Zongtao , Wang Tongyu , Li Mei , Liu Fuxu , Liu Chengluan , Yang Xiaoling , Dong Lihua , Ma Jixiang , Gao Pei , Xie Wuxiang , Wu Yangfeng
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND:

Although the information on the validation status of electronic sphygmomanometer (ES) devices in use in health care institutions and households is much more clinically relevant than that of ES models available on the market, it remains insufficient.

METHODS:

A national survey was conducted across all administrative regions of mainland China to assess the validation status of ESs. Fifty-eight cities were selected with stratification by municipality, provincial capital, and other cities, and health care institutions and households in each city were chosen by convenience to identify ES devices in use according to the study protocol. Information on devices’ model, type, was collected. The validation status of each device was ascertained through searching international online registries of its models.

RESULTS:

A total of 3230 ES devices (1924 from health care institutions and 1306 from households), encompassing 498 ES models, were actually selected. The weighted proportion of accuracy-validated devices was significantly higher in health care institutions (33.9% [95% CI, 31.8–36.0%]) compared with households (23.0% [95% CI, 20.8–25.4%];
P
<0.001), and both exceeded the proportions for models (17.7% [95% CI, 13.7–22.6%] and 12.5% [95% CI, 9.5–16.3%], respectively). Regional economic development, device type, and years in use were associated with the proportion of accuracy-validated devices. Notably, 8.8% of devices used in secondary hospitals were wrist type.

CONCLUSIONS:

The accuracy validation status of ESs in China in the number of devices in use shows a more favorable situation than that in the number of models but remains low and concerning. Policies are urgently needed to promote the widespread adoption of accuracy-validated models among all users.
A revision of five genera of Alysiini (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Alysiinae) from China, with description of five new species
Authors: ZHU JIACHEN , ACHTERBERG CORNELIS VAN , CHEN XUEXIN
Published: January 2025

Five genera of Alysiini (Alysiinae, Braconidae) from China are reviewed. Five new species are described and illustrated, i.e., Anisocyrta parallela sp. nov., A. rugosa sp. nov., Trachyusa punctata sp. nov., T. microporosa sp. nov. and Separatatus platystigma sp. nov. Seven species are newly recorded from China: Adelurola florimela (Haliday, 1838), Anisocyrta perdita Haliday, 1838; Pentapleura savva Belokobylskij, 1998; P. atlasovi Belokobylskij, 1998; P. angustula (Haliday, 1838); P. fuliginosa (Haliday, 1838); and Trachyusa vasilisk Belokobylskij, 1998. Keys to the species of Anisocyrta Foerster, Pentapleura Foerster, and Separatatus Chen & Wu are provided.
Nylanderia of the World, Part IV: Taxonomic contributions to the American Clade I of New World Nylanderia (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)
Authors: WILLIAMS JASON L. , WILLIAMS JOHN F. , LAPOLLA JOHN S. , LUCKY ANDREA
Published: January 2025

Globally, potentially hundreds of Nylanderia species remain undescribed, hidden within several broadly distributed complexes of morphologically cryptic species. By integrating phylogenomics, geography, and morphology, we describe eight new Nylanderia species from southern Mexico and Mesoamerica, increasing the total number of known species in the genus to 131. In the Americas, Nylanderia is divided into two distantly related clades: American Clade I (AC1) and American Clade II (AC2). Within AC1, Nylanderia austroccidua (Trager) was originally described as a widespread and morphologically variable species distributed from Utah to Costa Rica. This species was diagnosed by a slight concavity in the anterior face of the pronotum and varying degrees of fine cuticular microsculpturing across the body that causes blue cuticular iridescence under microscopic examination. Using Ultraconserved Elements (UCEs) for molecular phylogenetic analysis, we found that taxa matching the original description of N. austroccidua are paraphyletic with respect to Nearctic Nylanderia species. We also found that AC1 includes a Neotropical subclade extending into Mesoamerica, the distribution of which overlaps with AC2, which is exclusively Neotropical. Along with an updated description of N. austroccidua, we also describe the following new species belonging to clade AC1: N. breviscapa, sp. nov., N. contraria, sp. nov., N. lazulina, sp. nov., N. luceata, sp. nov., N. mendax sp. nov., N. mosaica sp. nov., N. polita sp. nov., and N. usul, sp. nov. A dichotomous key and images of the worker caste of these species are included and, where available, images of queens and males are provided.
Margaropus Karsch, 1879 is not closely related to Boophilus Curtice, 1891 (Acari: Ixodidae)
Authors: BARKER STEPHEN C. , KELAVA SAMUEL , MURRELL ANNA , CHO MINGEUN , TEO ERNEST J. M. , NAKAO RYO , APANASKEVICH DMITRY A.
Published: January 2025

Margaropus Karsch, 1879 and Boophilus Curtice, 1891 have been thought to be sister-taxa for over 75 years since these ticks share features like circular spiracles, no festoons, no distinct grooves behind the anus and one-host life cycles. We inferred the first phylogeny with Margaropus from 4,218 bp of mitochondrial (cox 1, 12S) and nuclear DNA (ITS2, 18S rRNA). Margaropus is not the sister-group to Boophilus or even closely related to Boophilus, but rather Margaropus is either the sister-group to, or embedded in, the genus Rhipicephalus.
Localised heating of carbon fibre reinforced thermoplastic tubes in rotary draw bend forming process
Authors: Li Mengyuan , Stokes-Griffin Chris , Sommacal Silvano , Holmes John , Compston Paul
Published: January 2025

This paper presents a localised heating technique using an induction heater and a steel spring mandrel for post-forming of polyamide six carbon (CF/PA6) thermoplastic tubes. During heating, the mandrel is heated up more rapidly than the tube to catalyse tube heating to its formable temperature of 220°C. Upon heating, the tube matrix softens to enable fibre movements when a tube undergoes rotary draw bending (RDB), forming the desired curvature. Four sets of [±60°]₄ CF/PA6 tubes were formed using an induction heater incorporated RDB setup into 45°, 90°, 135°, and 180° bends with a bending ratio of 2. Optical characterisation and micro-computed tomography were performed to analyse tube fibre angle and geometry changes. Results suggest that the presented technique is capable of producing tube bends with significant improvements in efficiency and quality as compared to oven and infrared heating, opening up the potential for rapid post-forming of composite tubes for high performance applications.
Novel phenolphthalein-based aromatic polyesters: The investigations of the relationships between refractive index and structure
Authors: Wu Zihao , Wang Jian , Liu Jiaxin , Lei Jinhua , Nie Heran , Yuan Qiliang , Wang Zhipeng , Li Liang
Published: January 2025

Aromatic polyesters are an attractive class of engineering thermoplastics with excellent chemical properties, thermal stability and environmental stability, as well as good optical properties, but they have rarely been reported. Refractive index (RI) is one of the properties commonly used to compare the optical properties of materials. The higher the refractive index, the thinner the lens made of the corresponding material; however, the preparation of high-refractive-index polymers is currently a thorny issue, in which the structure of the polymer molecules has a great impact on their refractive index, to design high-refractive-index materials requires starting from the structure of the molecules. Phenolphthalein has a unique structure with a molecular skeleton consisting of three benzene rings and a cyclic lactone that exhibits a twisted non-coplanar structure. This cyclic side group can hinder the accumulation between the polymer molecular chains, not only improving the solubility of the polymer molecules, but also increasing the transparency of the polymer films. In this work, we used phenolphthalein (PHT) and its derivatives to polymerize with terephthaloyl chloride (TPC), respectively, through the structural differences between them, the influence of polymer structure on the refractive index and thermal properties was discussed. Among them, polyester PAR-NPHT had the highest refractive index ( nd>1.67), and is expected to be a new generation of optical materials.
Ayurvedic Management of Sciatica with Medicated Enema and Bloodletting: A Case Report
Authors: Basnal Pooja , Borkar Preeti , Manda Sonia , Pal Pratyendra
Published: January 2025

Background: The most common condition that restricts movement is low back pain, which is particularly common in the most productive years of life. Sciatica syndrome accounts for 40% of patients’ severe lower back pain. Psychological strain places excessive strain on the spinal column and is a major contributing factor to the development of sciatica and lower back pain.

Purpose: The illness indicated in Ayurveda has symptoms and signs similar to “Sciatica” in modern, contemporary medicine. In clinical practice, Gridhrasi (Sciatica), the conditions stated in Ayurveda are comparable to those treated in contemporary medicine.

Methods: A 38-year-old female patient suffering from the above ailments, having pain in the lumbar region radiating pain to the left leg, tingling sensation in both legs, difficulty in walking, irregular sleep, and limping gait, was admitted to an Ayurvedic hospital. Her treatment comprised external and internal, consisting of Snehan with Vishgarbha Taila, Kati Basti with Mahamasadi Taila, and Kala Basti with Panchtiktaksheer (medicated enema).

Results: These treatments had a very favorable outcome, it was discovered. Following therapy, there was a significant improvement in walking time, lower extremity motions, and pain alleviation.

Conclusion: This method of treating Sciatica may be helpful in clinical settings and future research.
Influencing Factors in Urinary Retention in Parturients With Epidural Anesthesia Following Term Vaginal Birth
Authors: Wang Qingge , Xu Mengqi
Published: January 2025

Background: Epidural analgesia is a widely employed method in obstetric care for labor pain management. Postpartum urinary retention is a common complication that can arise during the postnatal period. This study aimed to evaluate the current status and influencing factors of postpartum urinary retention in parturients who received epidural anesthesia. Methods: We retrospectively included parturients who underwent vaginal delivery at our institution from June 2022 to October 2024. The characteristics of parturients with and without postpartum urinary retention were analyzed and compared. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to evaluate the influencing factors of postpartum urinary retention. Results: This study enrolled a cohort consisting of 520 parturients who underwent epidural anesthesia, resulting in a total of 520 instances of childbirth. Among this population, 56 parturients were identified as experiencing postpartum urinary retention. The incidence of postpartum urinary retention in parturients with epidural anesthesia was 10.77%. Correlation analysis results showed that the parity (r = 0.582), duration of analgesia (r = 0.554), degree of perineal laceration (r = 0.656) and use of oxytocin (r = 0.580) were correlated with the occurrence of postpartum urinary retention among parturients with epidural anesthesia (all p < .05). Logistic regression analysis indicated that parity (OR = 2.587, 95% CI: 1.890∼3.225), duration of analgesia (OR = 2.778, 95% CI: 2.104∼3.467), degree of perineal laceration (OR = 3.265, 95% CI: 2.620∼3.815) and use of oxytocin (OR = 2.436, 95% CI: 1.909∼3.875) were the independent influencing factors of postpartum urinary retention (all p < .05). Conclusion: It is imperative that clinical healthcare providers implement targeted preventative and management strategies to reduce postpartum urinary retention.
Research on the construction of intelligent-aided design platform for green buildings
Authors: Li Gang , Huang Yuan , Ye Wenliang
Published: January 2025

While socio-economic development and technological advancement bring great convenience to our life, energy consumption and environmental pollution have also become the core issues affecting human survival and development. This study focuses on the development of an intelligent design platform for green buildings, aimed at promoting sustainability through low energy consumption and reduced environmental impact. The study of existing national standards and requirements for the intelligent design of green buildings, combined with the unique characteristics of green buildings and user needs, has led to the development of an optimized auxiliary design platform system. By incorporating algorithm optimization and modeling techniques, this platform enhances the design process. Experimental evaluations of the system reveal that the intelligent auxiliary design offers more accurate predictions, thereby improving user service and experience. Additionally, the system contributes to energy efficiency and environmental sustainability by reducing the building’s ecological footprint. This research highlights the potential of intelligent systems to facilitate more efficient and environmentally friendly green building designs.
How I diagnose and treat systemic mastocytosis with an associated hematologic neoplasm
Authors: Radia Deepti H.
Published: January 2025

Over the last decade significant advances have been made by honing in on the diagnostic evaluation and the significance of molecular profiles in patients with systemic mastocytosis (SM), non-advanced and advanced.This is reflected in the 2022 iterations of the World Health Organization Edition 5 and International Consensus Criteria classifications.The impact of targeted KIT inhibitor therapies on patients treated within global trials has demonstrated significant improvements in the prognosis and overall survival for patients, leading to a change the treatment paradigm.Patients with SM and an associated hematologic neoplasm (SM-AHN) comprise of up to 70% of those in the advanced SM category, posing varying challenges in diagnosis and clinical heterogeneity due to the occupation of the bone marrow niche by two hematologic neoplasms.We are constantly learning about the complex, heterogenous genotypic and phenotypic spectrum of these patients with a view to provide personalised treatment options, aiming to improve outcomes, quality of life and ultimately a cure. This paper focuses on the management of patients with advanced systemic mastocytosis with an associated hematologic neoplasm and is a personal perspective using some illustrative patient cases treated at our centre, Guys and St Thomas's Hospitals, London: UK centre of excellence in Mastocytosis.
How I Treat Higher-Risk MDS
Authors: Mina Alain , Komrokji Rami S.
Published: January 2025

Myelodysplastic syndromes/neoplasms (MDS) are a widely heterogenous group of myeloid malignancies characterized by morphologic dysplasia, a defective hematopoiesis, and recurrent genetic abnormalities. The original and revised International Prognostic Scoring Systems (IPSS) have been used to risk-stratify patients with MDS to guide treatment strategies. In higher-risk MDS, the therapeutic approach is geared toward delaying leukemic transformation and prolonging survival. For over a decade, the hypomethylating agents azacitidine and decitabine have been the standard of care and, when feasible, an allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) should be considered. However, the IPSS scoring systems solely rely on clinical, morphological, and cytogenetic features and do not account for somatic mutations present in over 80% of cases. These genetic abnormalities have been shown to play a crucial role in prognostication, prompting the development of molecular IPSS, and the integration of genomic features into MDS classification systems in recent years. In this review, we delineate our approach to higher-risk MDS in the context of updated classifications and the latest prognostication tools. We employ illustrative clinical cases to support our discussion and share insights from recent clinical trials, highlighting lessons learned.
Socioeconomic, Race-Ethnicity, Household, and Infrastructure Disparities of Hematologic Cancer Outcomes in the US
Authors: Fei-Zhang David Jun , Wu Erik , Stanisic Alexander , Hou Lifang , Platanias Leonidas C , Ansell Stephen M. , Lewis Marquita W , Badawy Sherif M. , Paludo Jonas
Published: January 2025

Although social determinants of health (SDoH) investigations have shown limited analyses of socioeconomic and race-ethnic status on certain hematologic malignancies, the impact of factors beyond those across a fuller scope of hematologic cancers remains unknown. The Social Vulnerability Index (SVI), a tool for assessing varied US-census derived sociodemographic factors, allows the specific quantification of SDoH in dynamic, regional contexts for their associations with hematologic-malignancy inequities. To assess the summative influence of varied SDoH-factors on hematologic malignancy outcomes and discern which SDoH-factors contributed the largest associations towards disparities 796,005 adults with hematologic malignancies between 1975-2017 were identified for this retrospective cohort study. Vulnerability in 15 SDoH-factors was measured using composite and subcategory SVI scores geographically matched to patients. Regressions between SVI factors and follow-up time after diagnosis and survival period were performed. Increasing overall SVI correlated with significantly decreased surveillance period in 11/14 hematologic malignancies, with decreases upwards of 33.4% (39.0 to 26.0 months-acute lymphocytic leukemia). Increasing SVI significantly associated with decreased survival period across 11/14 hematologic malignancies, with decreases upwards of 47.2% (89.5 to 47.3 months-Hodgkins). Socioeconomic status and housing-transportation-vulnerabilities showed the largest-magnitude contributions, followed by minority-language and household composition. Significant decreases in hematologic-malignancy prognosis associate with increasing overall SDoH-vulnerability in varied sociodemographic contexts in the US. Furthermore, there are quantifiable differences in which types of SDoH contribute more to trends per malignancy-type. These findings demonstrate specific SDoH-targets for further research and policy-initiatives to combat hematologic-malignancy disparity more effectively.
Subclonal TP53 and KRAS variants combined with poor treatment response identify ultra-high-risk pediatric T-ALL patients
Authors: Kempter Tamara , Richter-Pechanska Paulina , Michel Katarzyna , Rausch Tobias , Erarslan Uysal Büşra , Eckert Cornelia , Zimmermann Martin , Stanulla Martin , Schrappe Martin , Cario Gunnar , Köhrer Stefan , Attarbaschi Andishe , Korbel Jan O , Kunz Joachim B. , Kulozik Andreas
Published: January 2025

Variations in the TP53 and KRAS genes indicate a particularly adverse prognosis in relapsed pediatric T-ALL. We hypothesized that these variations might be subclonally present at disease onset and contribute to relapse risk. To test this, we examined two cohorts of children diagnosed with T-ALL: one with 81 patients who relapsed and 79 matched non-relapsing controls, and another with 226 consecutive patients, 30 of whom relapsed. In cohort 1, targeted sequencing revealed TP53 clonal and subclonal variants in 6 of 81 relapsing patients but none in the non-relapsing group (p=0.014). KRAS alterations were found in 9 of 81 relapsing patients compared to 2 of 79 non-relapsing patients (p=0.032). Survival analysis showed that none of the relapsed patients with TP53 and/or KRAS alterations survived, whereas 19 of 67 relapsed patients without such variants did with a minimum follow-up time of 3 years (p=0.023). In cohort 2, none of the relapsing patients but 10 of 196 non-relapsing patients carried TP53 or KRAS variants, indicating that mutation status alone does not predict poor prognosis. All ten non-relapsing patients with mutations had a favorable early treatment response. Among the total cohort of 386 patients, 188 showed poor treatment response of whom 69 relapsed. Nine of these poor responders harbored TP53 or KRAS variants. In conclusion, subclonal TP53 and KRAS alterations identified at the time of initial diagnosis, along with a poor treatment response, characterize a subset of children with T-ALL who face a dismal prognosis and may benefit from alternative treatment approaches.
Impacts of donor age and HLA mismatch on HCT outcomes differ according to the donor CMV serostatus in unrelated allo-HCT
Authors: Kawamura Shunto , Nakagawa Daishi , Nagayama Takashi , Katayama Yuta , Doki Noriko , Takeda Wataru , Nishida Tetsuya , Matsuoka Ken-ichi , Ikeda Takashi , Ohigashi Hiroyuki , Sawa Masashi , Fukushima Kentaro , Kanda Junya , Serizawa Kentaro , Onizuka Makoto , Fukuda Takahiro , Atsuta Yoshiko , Kanda Yoshinobu , Nakasone Hideki
Published: January 2025

In unrelated allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT), older and/or HLA-mismatched donors are known risk factors for survival outcomes. In healthy individuals, cytomegalovirus (CMV) seropositivity is associated with impaired adaptive immune systems. We assessed whether the adverse effects of donor risk factors are influenced by the donor CMV serostatus. We analyzed 5836 CMV seropositive patients who received unrelated allo-HCT. We divided the entire cohort into two cohorts according to the donor CMV serostatus: CMV-positive (DP) and -negative (DN). We also stratified each cohort into four groups based on donor age (≥ 40 or < 40) and HLA parity (8/8 or 7/8): Young88, Old88, Young78, and Old78. In the CMV-DP cohort, the Old88 (HR 1.20, P = 0.012), Young78 (HR 1.35, P < 0.001), and Old78 (HR 1.60, P < 0.001) groups were associated with inferior OS compared with the Young88 group. On the other hand, in the CMV-DN cohort, neither donor age nor HLA disparity was associated with inferior OS. The adverse impact of donor age was different between the cohorts (CMV-DP; HR 1.19, P = 0.001, CMV-DN; HR 1.04, P = 0.53; P for interaction 0.070), as was the impact of HLA (CMV-DP; HR 1.34, P < 0.001, CMV-DN; HR 1.08 P = 0.23; P for interaction 0.012). The impacts of donor age and HLA mismatch on OS might differ according to the donor CMV serostatus. In unrelated allo-HCT from a CMV seronegative donor, an HLA-mismatched older donor may be able to be selected without affecting OS.
Analysis of macular retinal thickness in polyarteritis nodosa using spectral domain optical coherence tomography
Authors: Yang Che-Ning , Chen Chia-Ping , Hsieh Yi-Ting
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To identify the macular retinal layer thickness changes in polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) patients without pathological findings appearing in color fundus photography (CFP), and to investigate the correlations with disease durations.

Methods

A total of 24 PAN patients who had been for 3 years or more and underwent SD-OCT were recruited from the UK Biobank, with exclusions for diabetes, eye disease, or abnormal CFP findings. Only the right eyes were included, with each PAN patient paired one-to-one with a control matched for age, sex, and ethnicity. Paired t-tests or Wilcoxon Signed-Rank tests were used to assess the differences in thickness of different retinal layers between groups, followed by linear regression analysis to evaluate the correlations with disease durations.

Results

PAN patients had significantly thinner retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) by 12.27% (mean ± standard deviation = 27.39 ± 8.94 μm for PAN patients and 31.22 ± 5.57 μm for controls, p = 0.048) and thinner outer plexiform and outer nuclear layers (OPL-ONL complex) by 10.67% (44.93 ± 6.59 μm for PAN patients and 50.31 ± 7.60 μm for controls, p = 0.032). Visual acuity and the whole macular thickness showed no statistical difference. The RNFL was thinned by 1.22 μm per year of disease progression (95% confidence interval: 0.12, 2.32, p = 0.042).

Conclusions

PAN patients without visual impairments or abnormal CFP findings may exhibit significant thinning in RNFL and OPL-ONL complex. SD-OCT may serve as a useful tool for early screening of ophthalmic changes in PAN.
Methodological challenges using routine clinical care data for real-world evidence: a rapid review utilizing a systematic literature search and focus group discussion
Authors: Pfaffenlehner Michelle , Behrens Max , Zöller Daniela , Ungethüm Kathrin , Günther Kai , Rücker Viktoria , Reese Jens-Peter , Heuschmann Peter , Kesselmeier Miriam , Remo Flavia , Scherag André , Binder Harald , Binder Nadine ,   for the EVA4MII project
Published: January 2025

Background

The integration of real-world evidence (RWE) from real-world data (RWD) in clinical research is crucial for bridging the gap between clinical trial results and real-world outcomes. Analyzing routinely collected data to generate clinical evidence faces methodological concerns like confounding and bias, similar to prospectively documented observational studies. This study focuses on additional limitations frequently reported in the literature, providing an overview of the challenges and biases inherent to analyzing routine clinical care data, including health claims data (hereafter: routine data).

Methods

We conducted a literature search on routine data studies in four high-impact journals based on the Journal Citation Reports (JCR) category “Medicine, General & Internal” as of 2022 and three oncology journals, covering articles published from January 2018 to October 2023. Articles were screened and categorized into three scenarios based on their potential to provide meaningful RWE: (1) Burden of Disease, (2) Safety and Risk Group Analysis, and (3) Treatment Comparison. Limitations of this type of data cited in the discussion sections were extracted and classified according to different bias types: main bias categories in non-randomized studies (information bias, reporting bias, selection bias, confounding) and additional routine data-specific challenges (i.e., operationalization, coding, follow-up, missing data, validation, and data quality). These classifications were then ranked by relevance in a focus group meeting of methodological experts. The search was pre-specified and registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023477616).

Results

In October 2023, 227 articles were identified, 69 were assessed for eligibility, and 39 were included in the review: 11 on the burden of disease, 17 on safety and risk group analysis, and 11 on treatment comparison. Besides typical biases in observational studies, we identified additional challenges specific to RWE frequently mentioned in the discussion sections. The focus group had varied opinions on the limitations of Safety and Risk Group Analysis and Treatment Comparison but agreed on the essential limitations for the Burden of Disease category.

Conclusion

This review provides a comprehensive overview of potential limitations and biases in analyzing routine data reported in recent high-impact journals. We highlighted key challenges that have high potential to impact analysis results, emphasizing the need for thorough consideration and discussion for meaningful inferences.