bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sol-gel CdS layer for TiO2 nanorod-based quantum dots-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Chen Shixin , Meng Yangqi , Feng Shuang , Ou Tianji
Published: December 2023

The CdS layer was essential for CdSe quantum dot-sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs) as the seed layer and energy barrier. Here, a novel sol–gel method was employed to prepare the CdS interlayer (SG-CdS) for TiO2 nanorod-based QDSSCs. Due to the sufficient reaction of the Cd and S sources in the sol–gel solution, SG-CdS exhibited fewer impurities than CdS produced by commonly used chemical bath deposition (CBD-CdS). QDSSCs with SG-CdS exhibited an open-circuit voltage of 490 mV, a short-circuit current density of 14.12 mA cm−2, and a fill factor of 0.35. The power conversion efficiency of the QDSSCs with SG-CdS was 2.48%, which was higher than that of the QDSSCs with CBD-CdS (2.02%). Moreover, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy showed that the QDSSCs with SG-CdS yielded a charge recombination resistance of 99.92 Ω at a bias voltage of −0.5 V, demonstrating less charge recombination than the QDSSCs with CBD-CdS (82.16 Ω). Therefore, the performance of the CdSe QDSSCs could be improved by reducing the impurities in CdS. This study revealed the advantages of SG-CdS in replacing CBD-CdS as the interlayer for charge transport, as well as good applicability with nanorod photoanodes in QDSSCs.
Three-dimensional analysis of vortex-lattice formation in rotating Bose–Einstein condensates using smoothed-particle hydrodynamics
Authors: Tsuzuki Satori , Itoh Eri , Nishinari Katsuhiro
Published: December 2023

Recently, we presented a new numerical scheme for vortex lattice formation in a rotating Bose–Einstein condensate (BEC) using smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) with an explicit time-integrating scheme; our SPH scheme could reproduce the vortex lattices and their formation processes in rotating quasi-two-dimensional (2D) BECs trapped in a 2D harmonic potential. In this study, we have successfully demonstrated a simulation of rotating 3D BECs trapped in a 3D harmonic potential forming ‘cigar-shaped’ condensates. We have found that our scheme can reproduce the following typical behaviors of rotating 3D BECs observed in the literature: (i) the characteristic shape of the lattice formed in the cross-section at the origin and its formation process, (ii) the stable existence of vortex lines along the vertical axis after reaching the steady state, (iii) a ‘cookie-cutter’ shape, with a similar lattice shape observed wherever we cut the condensate in a certain range in the vertical direction, (iv) the bending of vortex lines when approaching the inner edges of the condensate, and (v) the formation of vortex lattices by vortices entering from outside the condensate. Therefore, we further validated our scheme by simulating rotating 3D BECs.
The world was their laboratory: how two pioneer scientist-administrators, James Watt and Zdenek Fejfar, advanced methods and international collaboration in cardiovascular disease epidemiology during the Cold War
Authors: Blackburn Henry , Oppenheimer Gerald
Published: December 2023

In 1952, James Watt, a young US Public Health Service (PHS) infectious disease epidemiologist, was appointed—amid wide surprise—director of the US National Heart Institute (NHI) where he served until 1961. He skillfully advanced epidemiologic research methods and study conduct nationally while also establishing epidemiology in the administrative hierarchy of the institute. Watt soon turned to development of an effective program in international cardiovascular disease (CVD) epidemiology under auspices of the World Health Organization (WHO) at the United Nations in Geneva. That effort resulted in the 1959 appointment of Zdenek Fejfar, a young Czech clinical investigator, as director of the WHO CVD Unit. The coming together of Watt and Fejfar, with a joint focus on improved methods and population comparisons, helped establish a vigorous international community of CVD epidemiology. Their collaboration and friendship remained active and close throughout their career assignments and thereafter, as documented in this story.
An exploratory mixed-methods evaluation of continuing education opportunities related to the care of sexual and gender minority patients from ACPE-accredited providers
Authors: A. Nardolillo Joseph , DiLucia Alex , Kerwin Taya , Ramirez Samantha R , Vazquez Maria C , Murry Logan T , Medlin Christopher G
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The objective of this analysis was to describe trends in continuing education opportunities for pharmacy professionals across the US related to the care of sexual and gender minority (SGM) patients.

Methods

Continuing education programs offered by Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE)–accredited providers from 2012 through 2022 were identified by searching the ACPE database for titles containing SGM terminology. Data including ACPE provider classification, activity type, format, audience, ACPE topic designator, interprofessional accreditation, contact hours, and learning objectives were collected. Content analysis was used to categorize activities.

Results

Following removal of duplicates and non–SGM-focused programming, 726 programs were identified. The most commonly observed program characteristics included a live format (67.6%, n = 491), a pharmacist audience (77.1%, n = 560), knowledge-based activities (90.8%, n = 656), a college or school of pharmacy provider (21.6%, n = 157), an ACPE topic of pharmacy administration (50.6%, n = 367), and a focus on pharmacy rather than interprofessional audiences (87.1%, n = 632). The median program length was 1 hour (interquartile range, 1-1.25 hours). The qualitative analysis identified programs focused on topics of gender-affirming care (pharmacotherapy) (32.1%, n = 233), general SGM (26.7%, n = 194), gender-affirming care (nonpharmacotherapy), sexually transmitted infections (7.2%, n = 52), and health disparities (3.9%, n = 28).

Conclusion

Advancement has occurred in the number of available continuing pharmacy education programs focused on the care of SGM patients. Further information regarding specific content and effectiveness of continuing education is necessary to determine strategies to better prepare pharmacy professionals to care for this growing patient population.
The links between wood traits and species demography change during tree development in a lowland tropical rainforest
Authors: González-Melo Andrés , Posada Juan Manuel , Beauchêne Jacques , Lehnebach Romain , Levionnois Sébastian , Derroire Géraldine , Clair Bruno
Published: December 2023

One foundational assumption of trait-based ecology is that traits can predict species demography. However, the links between traits and demographic rates are, in general, not as strong as expected. These weak associations may be due to the use of traits that are distantly related to performance, and/or the lack of consideration of size-related variations in both traits and demographic rates. Here, we examined how wood traits were related to demographic rates in 19 tree species from a lowland forest in eastern Amazonia. We measured 11 wood traits (i.e. structural, anatomical and chemical traits) in sapling, juvenile and adult wood; and related them to growth and mortality rates (MR) at different ontogenetic stages. The links between wood traits and demographic rates changed during tree development. At the sapling stage, relative growth rates (RGR) were negatively related to wood specific gravity (WSG) and total parenchyma fractions, while MR decreased with radial parenchyma fractions, but increased with vessel lumen area (VA). Juvenile RGR were unrelated to wood traits, whereas juvenile MR were negatively related to WSG and axial parenchyma fractions. At the adult stage, RGR scaled with VA and wood potassium concentrations. Adult MR were not predicted by any trait. Overall, the strength of the trait-demography associations decreased at later ontogenetic stages. Our results indicate that the associations between traits and demographic rates can change as trees age. Also, wood chemical or anatomical traits may be better predictors of growth and MR than WSG. Our findings are important to expand our knowledge on tree life-history variations and community dynamics in tropical forests, by broadening our understanding on the links between wood traits and demography during tree development.
Highly efficient biallelic correction of homozygous COL7A1 mutation using ABE8e adenine base editor
Authors: Brooks Imogen R , Alrokh Yara , Kazemizadeh Aidin , Balon Katarzyna , Newby Gregory , Liu David R , Łaczmański Łukasz , McGrath John A , Jacków-Malinowska Joanna
Published: December 2023

Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) is a genetic skin disorder characterized by severe skin blistering. With no cure at present, we have pursued a gene repair approach using base editing of COL7A1. Following on from our previous report of highly efficient base editing using the novel base editor, ABE8e, here we explore the use of lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-based delivery systems instead of electroporation to effect base editing in RDEB fibroblasts and correct a missense G > A mutation. We demonstrate increasingly high editing efficiencies, averaging 90%, which vary with the ABE8e dosage. We then demonstrate the viability of topical delivery of mRNA encapsulated in an LNP. Our work underscores the translational potential of this therapeutic route for DEB.
Comparing the accuracy of prediction models to detect clinically relevant post-hepatectomy liver failure early after major hepatectomy
Authors: Baumgartner Ruth , Engstrand Jennie , Rajala Patric , Grip Jonathan , Ghorbani Poya , Sparrelid Ernesto , Gilg Stefan
Published: December 2023

Background

Arterial lactate measurements were recently suggested as an early predictor of clinically relevant post-hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF). This needed to be evaluated in the subgroup of major hepatectomies only.

Method

This observational cohort study included consecutive elective major hepatectomies at Karolinska University Hospital from 2010 to 2018. Clinical risk factors for PHLF, perioperative arterial lactate measurements and routine lab values were included in uni- and multivariable regression analysis. Receiver operating characteristics and risk cut-offs were calculated.

Results

In total, 649 patients constituted the study cohort, of which 92 developed PHLF grade B/C according to the International Study Group of Liver Surgery (ISGLS). Lactate reached significantly higher intra- and postoperative levels in PHLF grades B and C compared to grade A or no liver failure (all P < 0.002). Lactate on postoperative day (POD) 1 was superior to earlier measurement time points in predicting PHLF B/C (AUC 0.75), but was outperformed by both clinical risk factors (AUC 0.81, P = 0.031) and bilirubin POD1 (AUC 0.83, P = 0.013). A multivariable logistic regression model including clinical risk factors and bilirubin POD1 had the highest AUC of 0.87 (P = 0.006), with 56.6% sensitivity and 94.7% specificity for PHLF grade B/C (cut-off ≥0.32). The model identified 46.7% of patients with 90-day mortality and had an equally good discriminatory potential for mortality as the established ISGLS criteria for PHLF grade B/C but could be applied already on POD1.

Conclusion

The potential of lactate to predict PHLF following major hepatectomy was inferior to a prediction model consisting of clinical risk factors and bilirubin on first post-operative day.
Empowering emerging leaders: a model public planning academy
Authors: Mandarano Lynn A
Published: December 2023

Public planning academies are a form of community leadership development programming utilized by cities to increase community engagement. This article presents a case study of the Citizens Planning Institute in Philadelphia, in the US state of Pennsylvania, and documents the program’s outcomes using the Community Capitals Framework. The results highlight the capacities developed by participants and their community engagement post program. The findings contribute to understanding how public planning academies support emerging leaders with new knowledge and skills, and enhanced leadership traits (human capital) as well as social, political, and cultural capitals that enhance engagement.
Pseudolymphoma on the face involving the conjunctiva
Authors: Orita Akihiro , Takashima Shota , Yoshimoto Norihiro , Narahira Atsushi , Mai Yosuke , Arita Ken , Kase Satoru , Nishie Wataru , Ujiie Hideyuki
Published: December 2023

Pseudolymphoma is a benign lymphoproliferative disorder characterized by an excessive response of inflammatory cells to various triggers. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of pseudolymphoma occurring concurrently on the face and the conjunctiva.
DrugGen: a database of de novo-generated molecular binders for specified target proteins
Authors: Qian Hao , Zhou Jingyuan , Tu Shikui , Xu Lei
Published: December 2023

De novo molecular generation is a promising approach to drug discovery, building novel molecules from the scratch that can bind the target proteins specifically. With the increasing availability of machine learning algorithms and computational power, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a valuable tool for this purpose. Here, we have developed a database of 3D ligands that collects six AI models for de novo molecular generation based on target proteins, including 20 disease-associated targets. Our database currently includes 1767 protein targets and up to 164 107 de novo-designed molecules. The primary goal is to provide an easily accessible and user-friendly molecular database for professionals in the fields of bioinformatics, pharmacology and related areas, enabling them to efficiently screen for potential lead compounds with biological activity. Additionally, our database provides a comprehensive resource for computational scientists to explore and compare different AI models in terms of their performance in generating novel molecules with desirable properties. All the resources and services are publicly accessible at https://cmach.sjtu.edu.cn/drug/.

Database URL: https://cmach.sjtu.edu.cn/drug/.
Unravelling translanguaging: a critical appraisal
Authors: Treffers-Daller Jeanine
Published: December 2023

The concept of translanguaging is one of the most successful ones in the recent history of multilingualism research. But what does it really mean? It covers such a wide semantic field that users seem to be free to decide its meaning in whatever way they wish. A key uniting idea of the different approaches is that teachers should ‘draw upon’ the first language(s) of learners in language teaching or allow the learners to do so to scaffold the learning process. However, this is by no means novel or controversial. The conceptual vagueness of the term translanguaging invites researchers and practitioners to propose a flurry of operationalisations, and make recommendations for practice for which there is no empirical evidence. The concept and the pedagogical applications fall apart as soon as one digs a little deeper. It is timely to either radically revisit the concept and narrow it down or abandon it altogether.
Code-switching and translanguaging: why they have a lot in common
Authors: Treffers-Daller Jeanine
Published: December 2023

The proponents of translanguaging are often not aware of the history of code-switching research and the relevance of this research for a range of the claims they make, for example on the issue of the separability of systems. While it is understandable that new paradigms try to emphasize how different they are from others, we cannot see why and how a new approach is different from previous ones unless a fair presentation is given of the position of others and detailed evidence is provided of the claims that are being made. In this rebuttal I show that the translanguaging literature owes a lot to the literature on code-switching, and that the translanguaging practices as found in the instructions to teachers look very similar to examples of code-switching as found in the extensive academic literature. In addition, many of the recommendations for pedagogical practice are not as novel as the proponents of translanguaging would like us to believe: many teachers when they hear about translanguaging say that they have been doing it for years but haven’t had a name for it. It is time for the translanguaging papers to now recognize that the translanguaging agenda developed out of the ideas of other excellent researchers in bilingualism.
PBRM-1/PBAF-regulated genes in a multipotent progenitor in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Mathies Laura D , Kim Andrew C , Soukup Evan M , Thomas Alan’da E , Bettinger Jill C
Published: December 2023

The Caenorhabditis elegans somatic gonadal precursors (SGPs) are multipotent progenitors that generate all somatic cells of the adult reproductive system. The 2 SGPs originate in the mesodermal layer and are born through a division that produces one SGP and one head mesodermal cell (hmc). One hmc terminally differentiates, and the other dies by programmed cell death. The polybromo-associated BAF (PBAF) chromatin remodeling complex promotes the multipotent SGP fate. The complete loss of PBAF causes lethality, so we used a combination of Cre/lox recombination and GFP nanobody-directed protein degradation to eliminate PBRM-1, the signature subunit of the PBAF complex, from 83 mesodermal cells, including SGPs, body muscles, and the hmc. We used RNA sequencing to identify genes acting downstream of PBAF in these cells and identified 1,955 transcripts that were significantly differentially expressed between pbrm-1(−) and pbrm-1(+) in the mesoderm of L1 larvae. We found that genes involved in muscle cell function were overrepresented; most of these genes had lower expression in the absence of PBRM-1, suggesting that PBAF promotes muscle differentiation. Among the differentially expressed genes were 125 that are normally expressed at higher levels in SGP vs hmc and positively regulated by pbrm-1 and 53 that are normally expressed at higher levels in hmc vs SGP and are negatively regulated by pbrm-1; these are candidate regulators of the SGP/hmc fate decision. We validated one candidate gene using a fluorescent reporter; the hsp-12.3 reporter was derepressed in SGPs in pbrm-1 mutants, suggesting that hsp-12.3 expression is normally repressed by pbrm-1 in SGPs.
Difference-Making Pathways to Frailty Through Social Factors: A Configurational Analysis
Authors: Pollak Chava , Verghese Joe , Blumen Helena M
Published: December 2023

Background and Objectives

Social disconnection is highly prevalent in older adults and is associated with frailty. It is unclear which aspects of social disconnection are most associated with frailty, which ones are difference-making, and which combination of social factors are directly linked to frailty.

Research Design and Methods

We conducted a secondary coincidence analysis (CNA) of 1,071 older adults from the Rush Memory and Aging Project (mean age 79.3 ± 7.1; 75.8% female) to identify combinations of social factors that are difference-making for frailty. We included 7 demographic (e.g., age, sex, socioeconomic status) and structural (e.g., social network), functional (e.g., social support, social activity), and quality (e.g., loneliness) aspects of social connection. An established cut score of 0.2 on a frailty index was used to define frailty as the outcome.

Results

CNA produced 46 solution models for the presence of frailty in the data set. The top-scoring model was underfit, leaving a final complex solution path for frailty with the highest fit-robustness score that met the fit parameter cutoffs. We found that the combination of loneliness, low social activity, and older age was present 82% of the time when frailty was present.

Discussion and Implications

The combination of loneliness, social activity, and old age is difference-making for frailty, and supports the inclusion of social factors in frailty prevention and intervention. Further research is needed in diverse data sets to better understand the interrelationships between the 3 aspects of social connection and frailty.
News media framing of food poverty and insecurity in high-income countries: a rapid review
Authors: Kerins Claire , Furey Sinéad , Kerrigan Páraic , McCartan Aodheen , Kelly Colette , Vaughan Elena
Published: December 2023

Food poverty and insecurity have become a public health emergency in many high-income countries. News media coverage can shape public and political views towards such issues. This rapid review synthesizes the evidence on how food poverty and insecurity are represented in the news media. Peer-reviewed publications were accessed through three electronic databases, with reference lists of all included studies screened. Primary research studies conducted in high-income countries and published in English since 1995 were included, with no restrictions on study methods. A combination of deductive coding to Entman’s framing theory and inductive analysis was used. Ten studies, mostly rated as low quality, were included in the review. Newspapers were the only type of news media examined. The findings showed a largely absent nuanced understanding of food poverty and insecurity, with the problem often defined by food bank use and the consequences mainly focused on physical health. The causes were mostly attributed to structural factors, with the solutions largely focused on charitable food aid. The discourse of recipient (un)deservingness of food aid was evident. Articles often contained views from government officials and charities, with individuals’ experiences of food poverty and insecurity largely absent. The findings of this review highlight that a major shift in print media discourse on food poverty and insecurity is required. More balanced and critical news reporting is required to present a more realistic picture of food poverty and insecurity, including its multi-dimensional nature, limitations of food charity and the need for structural solutions to this important issue.
Initial Health Outcomes of a Community-Based Collaboration for Children in Foster Care
Authors: Espeleta Hannah C , Schelbe Lisa , Ruggiero Kenneth J , Klika J Bart
Published: December 2023

Children entering foster care have complex health needs that can persist across the lifespan. Efforts to improve access to primary care services exist; however, few have been tested. This study evaluated the Missoula Foster Child Health Program, a tri-agency, community-based collaboration in Montana, to determine its impact on health outcomes for youth in care. Demographic, health outcome, and child welfare data were collected from 485 children (50 percent male, 50 percent female, aged 0–18). At program admission, children had unmet service needs, lacking a primary care provider (30 percent), a dental provider (58 percent), and required vaccinations (33 percent). Three-quarters of children had at least one health condition, and one-third had a behavioral health concern. Overall, children in the program had significant decreases in physical and behavioral health problems from admission to discharge. Older children and those with fewer placements were more likely to have positive health changes. Data are promising, representing positive health outcomes of a community-based model for children in care.
Oral β-Lactam Pairs for the Treatment of Mycobacterium avium Complex Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Negatu Dereje A , Shin Sung Jae , Kim Su-Young , Jhun Byung Woo , Dartois Véronique , Dick Thomas
Published: December 2023

Cure rates for pulmonary disease caused by the Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) are poor. While β-lactam are front line antibiotics against Mycobacterium abscessus pulmonary disease, they have not been used or recommended to treat MAC lung infections. Through a comprehensive screen of oral β-lactams, we have discovered that selected pairs combining either a penem/carbapenem or penicillin with a cephalosporin are strongly bactericidal at clinically achieved concentrations. These dual β-lactam combinations include tebipenem and sulopenem, both in phase 3, and Food and Drug Administration-approved amoxicillin and cefuroxime. They could therefore immediately enter clinical trials or clinical practice.
Contextualizing the Contextualizers: How the Area Studies Controversy is Different in Different Places
Authors: Busse Jan , Valbjørn Morten , Doolotkeldieva Asel , Ortmann Stefanie , Smith Karen , Shami Seteney , Costa Sérgio , Weipert-Fenner Irene , Wolff Jonas , Schäfer Saskia , Osterberg-Kaufmann Norma
Published: December 2023

As part of recent years’ efforts at reaching a more context- and diversity-sensitive study of international relations, the nexus between fields of IR and Area Studies (AS) has received a renewed attention. While AS is usually presented as the “contextualizer” of the disciplines, this forum reverses the perspective by suggesting that an awareness of both diversity and context is also relevant when it comes to understanding the evolution of the field of AS and its relations to IR. In this forum, a selection of scholars with diverse backgrounds (US, Middle East, Europe, Latin America, Africa, and Central Asia), different (inter)disciplinary trainings and regional orientations examines how various fields of AS and its relations to the disciplines vary, and what follows from a stronger attention to such kind of diversity. By contextualizing the contextualizers, the forum brings attention to how a context-sensitive field can also suffer from its own provincialism. While the US-centric narrative about AS might have been almost “hegemonic,” at closer inspection, it turns out that AS in different (sub)disciplinary and geographical settings have evolved differently, and in some places the so-called Area Studies controversy (ASC) has been almost absent. A broadening of the perspective also reveals how the challenges to a successful cross-fertilization are not limited to those outlined in the “classic” ASC, but the forum does simultaneously offer encouraging lessons on how dialogues between area specialists and discipline-oriented scholars can help to overcome epistemological, theoretical, or methodological blind spots. Rather than presenting the IR/AS nexus as a panacea per se, the aim of the forum is therefore to invite to a broader and more self-reflective discussion on some of the opportunities as well as challenges associated with this strategy for making the study of international relations more context-sensitive and attentive to different forms of diversity.
Storytelling of Indigenous patient and family advocates engaged in patient-oriented research initiatives in the field of inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Sanderson Rhonda , Porter Linda , Porter Robert , Brass Colten , Jennings Derek , Johnson-Jennings Michelle , Andkhoie Mustafa , Bukassa-Kazadi Germain , Fowler Sharyle , Santos Jose Diego Marques , Osei Jessica Amankwah , Quintin Carol-Lynne , Teucher Ulrich , Peña-Sánchez Juan Nicolás
Published: December 2023

Background and aim

The history of colonization and its ongoing impact poses significant health disparities among Indigenous communities. We aimed to centre the voices and stories of Indigenous patients and family advocates (IPFAs—Indigenous patients living with inflammatory bowel disease [IBD] and family members of Indigenous individuals with IBD) engaged in patient-oriented research projects and who are part of the IBD among Indigenous Peoples Research Team (IBD-IPRT).

Methods

IPFAs and Indigenous and non-Indigenous researchers of the IBD-IPRT followed a storytelling research methodology to let IPFAs share their stories as research team members. Four IPFAs documented their experiences as IBD patients, advocates, and research partners. The stories were analyzed for themes. The identified themes were collaboratively verified with the IPFAs.

Results

The full stories shared by the IPFAs were transcribed and presented in this paper. Following a background analysis of themes in the 4 narratives, we were also able to identify 4 key themes that could be relevant to improving patient-oriented research initiatives: (1) health promotion, (2) leadership and voice, (3) community engagement, and (4) disease awareness and access to care. Trust building, strong relationships, and effective partnerships are core components for conducting patient-oriented research with Indigenous community members.

Conclusions

Indigenous patient engagement in health research is crucial to ensure that lived experiences, knowledge, and cultural values are adequately adopted to improve research outcomes. Centering IPFAs in IBD research can promote cultural awareness and actionable recommendations to improve health outcomes for individuals with IBD and their families and caregivers.
Lipocalin-2 as a mediator of neuroimmune communication
Authors: Afridi Ruqayya , Kim Jae-Hong , Bhusal Anup , Lee Won-Ha , Suk Kyoungho
Published: December 2023

Lipocalin-2, a neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, is a 25-kDa secreted protein implicated in a broad range of inflammatory diseases affecting the brain and periphery. It is a pleotropic protein expressed by various immune and nonimmune cells throughout the body. Importantly, the surge in lipocalin-2 levels in disease states has been associated with a myriad of undesirable effects, further exacerbating the ongoing pathological processes. In the brain, glial cells are the principal source of lipocalin-2, which plays a definitive role in determining their functional phenotypes. In different central nervous system pathologies, an increased expression of glial lipocalin-2 has been linked to neurotoxicity. Lipocalin-2 mediates a crosstalk between central and peripheral immune cells under neuroinflammatory conditions. One intriguing aspect is that elevated lipocalin-2 levels in peripheral disorders, such as cancer, metabolic conditions, and liver diseases, potentially incite an inflammatory activation of glial cells while disrupting neuronal functions. This review comprehensively summarizes the influence of lipocalin-2 on the exacerbation of neuroinflammation by regulating various cellular processes. Additionally, this review explores lipocalin-2 as a mediator of neuroimmune crosstalk in various central nervous system pathologies and highlights the role of lipocalin-2 in carrying inflammatory signals along the neuroimmune axis.
Morphomics via next-generation electron microscopy
Authors: Son Raku , Yamazawa Kenji , Oguchi Akiko , Suga Mitsuo , Tamura Masaru , Yanagita Motoko , Murakawa Yasuhiro , Kume Satoshi
Published: December 2023

The living body is composed of innumerable fine and complex structures. Although these structures have been studied in the past, a vast amount of information pertaining to them still remains unknown. When attempting to observe these ultra-structures, the use of electron microscopy (EM) has become indispensable. However, conventional EM settings are limited to a narrow tissue area, which can bias observations. Recently, new trends in EM research have emerged, enabling coverage of far broader, nano-scale fields of view for two-dimensional wide areas and three-dimensional large volumes. Moreover, cutting-edge bioimage informatics conducted via deep learning has accelerated the quantification of complex morphological bioimages. Taken together, these technological and analytical advances have led to the comprehensive acquisition and quantification of cellular morphology, which now arises as a new omics science termed ‘morphomics’.
Potential interactions between triazole antifungal agents and lorlatinib based on ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry in rat plasma
Authors: Ye Zhongjiang , Wang Chenxiang , Li Rongqi , Chen Chuang , Yang Jianhui , Chen Yizhang , Fu Jing , Zhou Tao , Jin Mi , Huang Aifang , Zhang Xiuhua , Zhou Ziye
Published: December 2023

Aim

Our study is to investigate the effects of triazole antifungal drugs on the pharmacokinetics of lorlatinib in rats.

Methods

The samples were precipitated with methanol. Chromatographic separation was performed on a ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) system using a BEH C18 column. The mobile phase consisted of 0.1% formic acid water and methanol. Lorlatinib and crizotinib (internal standard) were detected in multiple reaction monitoring mode. The fragment ions were 407.3–228.07 for lorlatinib and m/z 450.3–260.0 for crizotinib. Lorlatinib and different triazole antifungal drugs were given to Sprague Dawley rats by gavage, and blood was collected from the tail vein at a certain time point. The validated UPLC–MS/MS method was applied to a drug interaction study of ketoconazole, voriconazole, itraconazole, and posaconazole with lorlatinib in rats.

Results

Ketoconazole and voriconazole significantly inhibited lorlatinib metabolism. When administration with ketoconazole and voriconazole, the area under the curve from time zero to infinity of lorlatinib increased by 49.0% and 104.3%, respectively; the clearance decreased by 40.0% and 40.0%, respectively. While itraconazole and posaconazole did not affect lorlatinib pharmacokinetics.

Conclusion

The UPLC-MS/MS-based assay is helpful to further understand the pharmacokinetics of lorlatinib in rats, and confirmed the findings that the combination of lorlatinib with CYP3A inhibitors should be avoided as predicted by our pre-clinical studies.
The Exploration of the GWOT Combat Amputee’s Experience With Longitudinal Care: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Pursel Alexander , Nichols Ryoma , Evans Dan , Lindquist Kristina
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Contemporary advances in combat medicine have allowed greater numbers of wounded service members to survive their injuries. An estimated 1,705 combat veterans sustained major lower or upper extremity amputations between 2001 and 2017 during the Global War on Terror. This study intends to answer the following question utilizing a qualitative study design: What were the common and abnormal experiences of the Global War on Terror combat amputees relative to their mechanism of injury, perception of injury, and systems of care utilized during their recovery and rehabilitation process?.

Methods

During the months of December 2022 and January 2023, individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with U.S. Marines that served in the Global War on Terror (total n = 10). Deductive and inductive approaches were employed to identify codes, themes, and meta-themes in the data.

Results

All participants deployed to Afghanistan between the years 2010 and 2014 and were assigned to the following military occupational specialties: Explosive Ordnance Disposal technicians (total n = 2); combat engineers (total n = 2); and infantrymen (total n = 6). Analysis of data collected from interviews highlighted these key observations: (1) Themes in the combat amputee experience include support, systems of care, and mindset and (2) the themes synergistically contribute to the meta-themes mental health and pain and vice versa. As all participants were subjected to a blast mechanism of injury, it is difficult to determine if this played a role in deviating rehabilitation and recovery processes. Perception of injury and how well participants adapted to their new lifestyle, meaning how optimistic they were, appeared to play a significant role in recovery. Participants had mixed feelings about the care they had received but generally spoke favorably of military hospitals and were frustrated with the Veteran Affairs, and there was no clear consensus on their relationship with civilian health care, though most participants chose to seek most of their care through the Veteran Affairs.

Conclusion

Based on the research question, this study found an intricate relationship between mental health, pain, and the experiences of the participants regarding their care and rehabilitation. However, the nature of qualitative research makes it impossible to determine generalizations that can be used to create meaningful change to address improving combat amputee veteran care. Further research into long-term health outcomes based on hypotheses not evaluated in existing literature would further improve the ability of health care providers to care for this unique patient population.
Toward image-based personalization of glioblastoma therapy: A clinical and biological validation study of a novel, deep learning-driven tumor growth model
Authors: Metz Marie-Christin , Ezhov Ivan , Peeken Jan C , Buchner Josef A , Lipkova Jana , Kofler Florian , Waldmannstetter Diana , Delbridge Claire , Diehl Christian , Bernhardt Denise , Schmidt-Graf Friederike , Gempt Jens , Combs Stephanie E , Zimmer Claus , Menze Bjoern , Wiestler Benedikt
Published: December 2023

Background

The diffuse growth pattern of glioblastoma is one of the main challenges for accurate treatment. Computational tumor growth modeling has emerged as a promising tool to guide personalized therapy. Here, we performed clinical and biological validation of a novel growth model, aiming to close the gap between the experimental state and clinical implementation.

Methods

One hundred and twenty-four patients from The Cancer Genome Archive (TCGA) and 397 patients from the UCSF Glioma Dataset were assessed for significant correlations between clinical data, genetic pathway activation maps (generated with PARADIGM; TCGA only), and infiltration (Dw) as well as proliferation (ρ) parameters stemming from a Fisher–Kolmogorov growth model. To further evaluate clinical potential, we performed the same growth modeling on preoperative magnetic resonance imaging data from 30 patients of our institution and compared model-derived tumor volume and recurrence coverage with standard radiotherapy plans.

Results

The parameter ratio Dw/ρ (P < .05 in TCGA) as well as the simulated tumor volume (P < .05 in TCGA/UCSF) were significantly inversely correlated with overall survival. Interestingly, we found a significant correlation between 11 proliferation pathways and the estimated proliferation parameter. Depending on the cutoff value for tumor cell density, we observed a significant improvement in recurrence coverage without significantly increased radiation volume utilizing model-derived target volumes instead of standard radiation plans.

Conclusions

Identifying a significant correlation between computed growth parameters and clinical and biological data, we highlight the potential of tumor growth modeling for individualized therapy of glioblastoma. This might improve the accuracy of radiation planning in the near future.
Hidden Burden of Bartonella quintana on the African Continent: Should the Bacterial Infection Be Considered a Neglected Tropical Disease?
Authors: Boodman Carl , Fongwen Noah , Pecoraro Alfonso J , Mihret Adane , Abayneh Hiwot , Fournier Pierre-Edouard , Gupta Nitin , van Griensven Johan
Published: December 2023

Bartonella quintana is a louse-borne gram-negative bacillus that remains a poorly characterized cause of bacteremia, fever, and infective endocarditis. Due to the link with pediculosis, B quintana transmission is tied to poverty, conflict, overcrowding, and inadequate water access to maintain personal hygiene. Although these risk factors may be present globally, we argue that a substantial burden of undocumented B quintana infection occurs in Africa due to the high prevalence of these risk factors. Here, we describe the neglected burden of B quintana infection, endocarditis, and vector positivity in Africa and evaluate whether B quintana meets criteria to be considered a neglected tropical disease according to the World Health Organization.
Candida auris: A Systematic Review of a Globally Emerging Fungal Pathogen in Africa
Authors: Osaigbovo Iriagbonse I , Ekeng Bassey E , Davies Adeyinka A , Ebeigbe Ejime , Bongomin Felix , Kanyua Alice , Revathi Gunturu , Oladele Rita O
Published: December 2023

Candida auris is a World Health Organization critical priority fungal pathogen. We conducted a systematic review to describe its epidemiology in Africa. PubMed and Google scholar databases were searched between January 2009 and September 2023 for clinical studies on C. auris cases and/or isolates from Africa. Reviews were excluded. We included 19 studies, involving at least 2529 cases from 6 African countries with the most, 2372 (93.8%), reported from South Africa. Whole-genome sequencing of 127 isolates identified 100 (78.7%) as clade III. Among 527 isolates, 481 (91.3%) were resistant to fluconazole, 108 (20.5%) to amphotericin B, and 9 (1.7%) to micafungin. Ninety of 211 (42.7%) patients with clinical outcomes died. C. auris is associated with high mortality and antifungal resistance, yet this critical pathogen remains underreported in Africa. Collaborative surveillance, fungal diagnostics, antifungals, and sustainable infection control practices are urgently needed for containment.
Advances of presepsin in sepsis-associated ARDS
Authors: Wei Senhao , Shen Ziyuan , Yin Yiyuan , Cong Zhukai , Zeng Zhaojin , Zhu Xi
Published: December 2023

This article reviews the correlation between presepsin and sepsis and the resulting acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). ARDS is a severe complication of sepsis. Despite the successful application of protective mechanical ventilation, restrictive fluid therapy, and neuromuscular blockade, which have effectively reduced the morbidity and mortality associated with ARDS, the mortality rate among patients with sepsis-associated ARDS remains notably high. The challenge lies in the prediction of ARDS onset and the timely implementation of intervention strategies. Recent studies have demonstrated significant variations in presepsin (PSEP) levels between patients with sepsis and those without, particularly in the context of ARDS. Moreover, these studies have revealed substantially elevated PSEP levels in patients with sepsis-associated ARDS compared to those with nonsepsis-associated ARDS. Consequently, PSEP emerges as a valuable biomarker for identifying patients with an increased risk of sepsis-associated ARDS and to predict in-hospital mortality.
Gamma rays and neutrons attenuation performance of a developed lead borate glass for radiotherapy room
Authors: Zeed Mona Abo , El Shazly Raed M , Elesh Eman , El-Mallah Hanaa M , Saeed Aly
Published: December 2023

The development of radiation therapy necessitated a continuous R&D for radiotherapy rooms' glass windows to reach the highest levels of protection for the staff of the radiotherapy facility. Therefore, in this article, a novel type of lead borate glass depending on parallel augmenting of lead and boron was produced to be used as gamma-rays and fast and thermal neutrons barriers in radiotherapy rooms. Neutrons and gamma rays’ attenuation parameters, fast neutrons removal cross section ${\varSigma}_R$, thermal neutron total cross section ${\sigma}_T$, mass attenuation coefficient $\sigma$, linear attenuation coefficient μ, half-value layer, mean free path, effective atomic number Zeff, effective electron density Neff, and buildup factor for energy absorption (energy absorption buildup factor) and exposure (exposure buildup factor) were studied extensively. Three tools, Phy-X/PSD, EpiXS and XCOM computer programs and the standard mixture rules were utilized to estimate the attenuation parameters. The improvement caused by the augmentation of lead and boron in both gamma rays and neutrons attenuation was evident from the obtained results. The glass containing the highest lead and boron concentration PbB5, 40Pb-50B, which is the most efficient attenuator for gamma rays and both thermal and fast neutrons was recommended to be a distinguished choice as a shield in a radiotherapy room.
“What if that’s your last sleep?” A qualitative exploration of the trauma of incarceration and sleep
Authors: Elumn Johanna E , Li Patrick , Lytell Malcolm S , Garcia Marisol , Wang Emily A , Klar Yaggi Henry
Published: December 2023

Study Background/Objectives

Sleep is an underexplored factor in the health of people involved in the criminal legal system. This study addresses the paucity of research on how individual, social, and physical environmental factors impact sleep health during and after incarceration by highlighting the voices of people involved in the criminal legal system through a community-engaged qualitative research approach.

Methods

We conducted 20 semi-structured interviews with men recently released from prison for a study on trauma and healthcare during incarceration and after release. Interviews were coded and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis and a critical realist framework. Our research team included people with a history of incarceration who performed central roles in the research process.

Results

Three themes emerged from participants’ descriptions of sleep during and after incarceration: (1) concerns about health contributing to sleep problems, (2) lack of access to treatment for sleep disorders leading to ongoing sleep problems, and (3) issues of safety contributing to sleep problems during incarceration and after release.

Conclusions

This study identifies factors and domains influencing sleep during and after incarceration. By identifying which interpersonal, environmental, and structural factors impact sleep quality, medical and carceral staff are better equipped to ameliorate sleep health disparities within populations with a history of incarceration and those actively bound by the criminal legal system. Future research should examine other factors impacting sleep in incarcerated and recently released populations and develop multi-level interventions to improve sleep health.
Persistence of Abortion Stigma Inscribed in the Legal Framework: The Case of Abortion Attitudes in Poland
Authors: Kwiatkowska Agnieszka , Pustułka Paula , Buler Marta
Published: December 2023

This article offers novel insights into the mechanism of abortion stigma and its pervasive impact on attitudes toward abortion. Specifically, it tracks the impact of the restrictive Polish 1993 law, known as the “abortion compromise,” on attitudes toward pregnancy terminations over three decades, exploring the role of abortion stigma in the observed shifts. Employing data from representative surveys and in-depth interviews with young women, this study demonstrates how gendered sexuality norms inscribed in the law are responsible for locating abortion in the realm of morality, thus intensifying its stigma. Remarkably, we uncover a unique convergence of “pro-choice” and “pro-life” perspectives in Poland. The growing unanimity of attitudes is attributed to the stigmatization of abortion that surpasses the medical or legal justifications of the 1993 law. Thus, the results crucially inform the strategies needed for the women’s rights movement aiming to liberalize the restrictive legislation.