bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prunella vulgaris polysaccharide inhibits herpes simplex virus infection by blocking TLR-mediated NF-κB activation
Authors: Zhong Xuanlei , Zhang Yibo , Yuan Man , Xu Lin , Luo Xiaomei , Wu Rong , Xi Zhichao , Li Yang , Xu Hongxi
Published: August 2023

Background
Prunella vulgaris polysaccharide extracted by hot water and 30% ethanol precipitation (PVE30) was reported to possess potent antiviral effects against herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection. However, its anti-HSV mechanism has not yet been fully elucidated.
Purpose
This study aimed to investigate the potential mechanisms of PVE30 against HSV infection.
Methods
Antiviral activity was evaluated by a plaque reduction assay, and the EC50 value was calculated. Immunofluorescence staining and heparin bead pull-down assays confirmed the interactions between PVE30 and viral glycoproteins. Real-time PCR was conducted to determine the mRNA levels of viral genes, including UL54, UL29, UL27, UL44, and US6, and the proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6. The protein expression of viral proteins (ICP27, ICP8, gB, gC, and gD), the activity of the TLR-NF-κB signalling pathway, and necroptotic-associated proteins were evaluated by Western blotting. The proportion of necroptotic cells was determined by flow cytometric analysis.
Results
The P. vulgaris polysaccharide PVE30 was shown to compete with heparan sulfate for interaction with HSV surface glycoprotein B and gC, thus strongly inhibiting HSV attachment to cells. In addition, PVE30 downregulated the expression of IE genes, which subsequently downregulated the expression of E and L viral gene products, and thus effectively restricted the yield of progeny virus. Further investigation confirmed that PVE30 inhibited TLR2 and TLR3 signalling, leading to the effective suppression of NF-κB activation and IL-6 and TNF-α expression levels, and blocked HSV-1-induced necroptosis by reducing HSV-1-induced phosphorylation of MLKL.
Conclusion
Our results demonstrate that the P. vulgaris polysaccharide PVE30 is a potent anti-HSV agent that blocks TLR-mediated NF-κB activation.
Risk and extent of intracranial haemorrhage in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection admitted to intensive care unit
Authors: Simion George , Martinez Sergio Calero , Klumbies Katharina , Kamp Marcel Alexander , Won Sae-Yeon , Ehler Johannes , Brämer Dirk , Senft Christian , Dinc Nazife
Published: August 2023

Introduction
The severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-Cov2) pandemic has been overcome after more than 3 years1. Several patients were affected by neurosurgery-related complications during SARS-CoV-2 infection 2,3. The aim of the present study was to assess the incidence of SARS-Cov2-associated intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), the reasons therefore and to identify predictors of outcome.
Methods
We retrospectively analyzed data of patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of our hospital in the period of 2 years. We included all patients who acquired a SARS-CoV-2 infection and required intensive care treatment. All patients were followed up until death or discharge from ICU. The primary outcome was the incidence of mortality during ICU stay and occurrence of ICH. We compared survivors and non-survivors with ICH during their ICU stay and patients who developed intracerebral hemorrhage with those who did not.
Results
Four hundred and sixty-seven patients with a mean age of 64.33 (± 14.76) years with confirmed SARS-CoV2-infection were registered. The mortality rate during ICU stay was 32.11%. Within the two years period, 18 out of 467 patients (3,85%) with spontaneous SARS-Cov2-associated ICH were treated in our department. In the multivariate analysis, ICH was not identified as an independent risk factor for mortality. ECMO treatment (OR 5.130, 95%: 1.739-15.133, p=0.003) was the only independent risk factor of the occurrence of ICH.
Conclusion
SARS-Cov2-associated ICH itself did not result in increased mortality in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection treated on the ICU. We hypothesize, that increased mortality in patients with ICH is caused by other comorbidities such as renal failure requiring dialysis, age over 65, the use of ECMO and mechanical ventilation. The use of ECMO was found to be the strongest independent risk factor associated with the occurrence of ICH.
Mesenchymal stromal cells-derived secretome attenuates cisplatin induced injury in vitro modifying the interplay between proximal tubular epithelial cells and macrophages
Authors: Rendra Erika , Uhlig Stefanie , Moskal Isabell , Thielemann Corinna , Klüter Harald , Bieback Karen
Published: August 2023

Background: The interplay between renal proximal tubular epithelial cells (PTECs) and macrophages plays an important role in the progression of acute kidney injury (AKI) caused by the chemotherapeutic agent cisplatin. Upon injury, damaged PTECs attract macrophages to the injury site. Macrophages can either aggravate the injury by producing pro-inflammatory factors or promote healing by supporting tissue homeostasis. Because of its high pro-regenerative capacity, MSC secretome can rescue damaged kidneys directly by acting on PTEC and indirectly by modulating macrophage responses. We hypothesize that the MSC secretome beneficially orchestrates the crosstalk between conditionally immortalized PTECs (ciPTECs) and macrophages in a cisplatin injury setting.
Methods: MSC secretome was harnessed by producing MSC conditioned medium (CM). First, the effect of CM on cisplatin injury was assessed on ciPTEC alone, measuring apoptosis, gene expression and reactive oxygen species of ciPTECs. Second, CM and cisplatin effects on macrophage surface marker expression and phagocytosis capacity were measured. Lastly, the interplay between ciPTECs and macrophages was investigated using an indirect co-culture system. ciPTEC injury was evaluated by measuring their apoptosis, nuclei fragmentation, and TNF-α secretion, while phagocytosis was taken as measure for macrophage polarization and function. The crosstalk of ciPTECs and macrophages was interrogated by measuring secreted factors within the cocultures.
Results: First, CM rescued ciPTEC from cisplatin-induced apoptosis by reducing oxidative stress and gene expression modification. Second, while cisplatin exerted only minor effects on macrophages, CM skewed macrophage phenotypes to be more anti-inflammatory. Finally, also in the co-culture system, CM suppressed ciPTEC death by inhibiting apoptosis and nuclei fragmentation. CM also downregulated pro-inflammatory response of ciPTEC, by lowering TNF-α release. While cisplatin inhibited macrophage phagocytosis, ciPTEC, and CM, to a greater extent, enhanced it. CM dampened inflammatory macrophage cytokine secretion triggered by ciPTECs.
Conclusion: Taken together, CM rescued cisplatin injury on ciPTECs and promoted M2 polarization of macrophages, individually. Combining ciPTECs and macrophages did not boost CM amelioration of injury on ciPTECs, perhaps because MSC-CM overrules macrophage effect in cisplatin injury. Nonetheless, the positive effects on reducing cisplatin cytotoxicity on ciPTEC, on polarizing macrophages individually and on fine-tuning macrophage cytokine secretion in co-cultures underscores MSCs CM benefit to prevent AKI progression and warrants further studies.
Change of dominant material properties in laserperforation process with high-energy lasers up to 120kilowatt
Authors: Reich Stefan , Goesmann Marcel , Heunoske Dominic , Schäffer Sebastian , Lueck Martin , Wickert Matthias , Osterholz Jens
Published: August 2023

In laser materials processing, energy losses due to reflection, heat conduction and thermal radiation play an important role. In this publication, we show that with increasing laser intensity, the energy lost within the sample becomes less important for metal perforation processes. We compare the laser-matter interaction of aluminium and steel plates. Material parameters such as density, melting point and especially thermal conductivity differ strongly, leading to much longer perforation times for aluminium in comparison to steel at laser powers of 20 kW. However, this behaviour changes at laser powers of more than 80 kW where the perforation times of aluminium become shorter than the corresponding times for steel. By comparing experimental data and simulations, we conclude that thermal conduction is the dominant factor of energy loss at low powers, but is reduced at high laser powers.
Urban Heat Island and Green Spaces in the City of Skopje: An Environmental Health Approach Combined with Remote Sensing data
Authors: Bukovetz Jansun , Kochubovski Mihail , Kaplan Gordana
Published: August 2023

Surface Urban Heat Island (SUHI) is a documented urbanization-driven phenomenon, causing higher temperatures in cities than in surrounding rural areas. Combining global warming, rapid urbanization, and UHI amplifies thermal stress, endangering public health. This research assesses the positive impact of greenery in reducing ambient temperatures during Skopje's summer. The cross-sectional study ran from 22.07. − 28.07.2022, in Skopje, Republic of North Macedonia. Monitoring temperatures thrice daily, we compared locations with and without tree coverage. Utilizing Landsat-8 data on July 22, 2022, we extracted SUHI patterns. Out of nine locations studied, four displayed (UHI) effects. The largest temperature difference, 7.9°C, occurred between a treeless one-way street and City Park. On average, temperature differences between the hottest and coolest spots were 6.8°C. All tree-covered areas showed lower ambient temperatures. Green spaces, like parks and tree-lined gardens, play a crucial role in mitigating thermal stress and counteracting UHI's adverse impact on public health. This research emphasizes the importance of urban planning and incorporating green infrastructure to combat UHI's detrimental effects amidst climate change and urbanization challenges. Policies promoting and preserving green spaces are essential for creating climate-resilient and sustainable cities prioritizing inhabitants' well-being.
Combination of blockade of endothelin signalling and compensation of IGF1 expression confers protective effects on degenerating retina
Authors: Shigesada Naoya , Shikada Naoya , Shirai Manabu , Toriyama Michinori , Higashijima Fumiaki , Kimura Kazuhiro , Kondo Toru , Bessho Yasumasa , Shinozuka Takuma , Sasai Noriaki
Published: August 2023

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and macular dystrophy (MD) cause severe retinal dysfunction, from which 1 in 4,000 people suffer worldwide. This disease is currently assumed to be intractable because effective therapeutic methods have not been established, regardless of genetic or sporadic traits. Here, we took advantage of RP model mice in which theProminin-1(Prom1) gene is deficient and investigated the molecular events occurring at the outset of retinal dysfunction. We extracted the Prom1-deficient retina subjected to light exposure for a short time, carried out single-cell expression profiling, and compared the gene expression with that without stimuli. We identified the cells and genes whose expression levels change directly in response to light stimuli. Among the genes altered by light stimulation, we found thatIgf1was decreased in rod photoreceptor cells and astrocytes under light-stimulated conditions. Consistently, the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) signal was weakened in the light-stimulated photoreceptor cells. The recovery ofIgf1expression with the adeno-associated virus (AAV) prevented photoreceptor cell death, and its treatment in combination with the endothelin receptor antagonist led to the blockade of abnormal glial activation and the promotion of glycolysis, and thereby resulted in the improvement of retinal functions, as assayed by electroretinography. We additionally demonstrated that the attenuation of mammalian/mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), which mediates IGF signalling, leads to complications in retinal homeostasis. Together, we propose that combinatorial manipulation of distinct mechanisms is useful for the maintenance of the retinal condition.
IRIS U kit usefulness in transanal total mesorectal excision for lower rectal cancer to avoid urethral injury
Authors: Ishii Masatsugu , Nitta Toshikatsu , Kataoka Jun , Ueda Yasuhiko , Senpuku Sadakatsu , Matsutani Ayumi , Taki Masataka , Horiguchi Kohei , Ota Masato , Ishibashi Takashi
Published: August 2023

Transanal total mesorectal excision (taTME) has improved the laparoscopic dissection for rectal cancer in the narrow pelvis. Although taTME has more clinical benefits than laparoscopic surgery, such as a better view of the distal rectum and direct determination of distal resection margin, an intraoperative urethral injury could occur in excision ta-TME. This study aimed to determine the feasibility and efficacy of the ta-TME with IRIS U kit surgery. This retrospective study enrolled 10 rectal cancer patients who underwent a taTME with an IRIS U kit. The study endpoints were the safety of access (intra- or postoperative morbidity). The detectability of the IRIS U kit catheter was investigated by using a laparoscope-ICG fluorescence camera system. Their mean age was 71.4±6.4 (58–78) years; 80 were men, and 2 were women. The mean operative time was 534.6 ± 94.5 min. The coloanal anastomosis was performed in 80%, and 20% underwent abdominal peritoneal resection. Two patients encountered postoperative complications graded as Clavien–Dindo grade 2. The transanal approach with IRIS U kit assistance is feasible, safe for patients with lower rectal cancer, and may prevent intraoperative urethral injury.
Ethical dilemmas in COVID-19 patients awaiting lung transplantation on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Authors: Trejnowska Ewa , Urlik Maciej , Ochman Marek , Wajda-Pokrontka Marta , Cyprys Paweł , Przybyłowski Piotr , Skoczyński Szymon , Knapik Piotr
Published: August 2023

Background: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) may serve as a bridge to
successful lung transplantation (LT) in selected patients with coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-
19) pneumonia. Compliance with the recognized LT criteria however, may be impossible to
be met in this particular and extremely challenging group of patients. This situation create
huge moral and ethical dilemmas. To indicate this, we decided to explore this difficult topic
and present how non-compliance to the recognized LT criteria enabled us to perform three
successful and life-saving LT procedures in COVID-19 patients.
Methods: Data of all consecutive patients on ECMO support as rescue treatment for COVID-
19 pneumonia, awaiting LT at SCHD between October 1, 2020 and May 31, 2021 were
reviewed.
Results: 18 patients on ECMO entered the list for LT at SCHD (mean age: 40.5 ± 5.6 years,
range 28–48 years). Mean duration of ECMO was 29.6 ± 15.5 days (range 6–71 days). 11
patients died: either during LT (n = 3), post-LT (n = 1), or on ECMO awaiting LT (n = 7).
The overall mortality rate in this group was 61.1%. Survivors (n=7) were either successfully
transplanted (n = 3) or weaned from ECMO (n = 4). In the medical literature, there are several
enthusiastic case reports describing successful LTs, however there might be a significant
publication bias in this area, as failed procedures probably remain largely under-reported.
There are no data to indicate the right time for LT in post-COVID-19 patients. Experts in this
field require minimum recovery period of 4 weeks to exclude native lung recovery, active
participation in physical rehabilitation and the possibility of providing informed consent to
proceed with LT. All these conditions were impossible to be met in our patients awaiting LT
on ECMO support.
Conclusions: Traditional lung transplantation criteria are difficult to be applied in COVID-19
patients requiring ECMO support due to medical and ethical reasons. Performing LT without
prior consent of patients violates the ethical principles of solid organ transplants, but may be
life-saving in some patients.
Rapidly adsorption of antibiotics in water onto demolded MCM-41 mesoporous materials
Authors: Chen Jie , Yang Yao , Yao Yuanyuan , Huang Zhujian , Xu Qiaolin , He Liping , Gong Beini
Published: August 2023

Antibiotic pollution has seriously affected human life and the ecological environment. And the development of economical and environmentally friendly adsorbent materials has become a research hotspot in this field. Mesoporous molecular sieve MCM-41 has good adsorption capacity, low cost, and strong adsorbent regeneration, with a high application value. Here, we studied the adsorption effects of demolded MCM-41 materials on tetracycline, doxycycline, and levofloxacin at different temperatures. The optimal demolding temperature was determined to be 800°C, and the adsorption experiments on three kinds of pollutants were conducted. The results showed that neutral or weak acid pH was beneficial to the adsorption. Also, alkaline pH inhibited adsorption; therefore, the Langmuir model could fit the adsorption thermodynamics well. The adsorption of MCM-41 for three kinds of pollutants conformed to the second-order adsorption kinetics model and belonged to chemical adsorption. The results demonstrated that MCM-41 has excellent potential for decontaminating of antibiotics wastewater.
Investigation of serious crimes using DNA from dust and air
Authors: Fantinato Chiara , Fonneløp Ane Elida , Bleka Øyvind , Vigeland Magnus Dehli , Gill Peter
Published: August 2023

Humans constantly shed DNA into the surrounding environment. This DNA may either remain suspended in the air or it settles onto surfaces as house dust.
In this study, we explored the potential use of human DNA recovered from air and dust to investigate crimes where there are no visible traces available – for example, from a recently vacated drugs factory where multiple workers had been present. Samples were collected from three indoor locations (offices, meeting rooms and laboratories) characterized by different occupancy types and cleaning regimes. The resultant DNA profiles were compared with the reference profiles of 55 occupants of the premises. Our findings showed that household dust samples are rich sources of DNA and provide an historical record of occupants within the specific locality of collection. Detectable levels of DNA were also observed in air and dust samples from ultra-clean forensic laboratories which can potentially contaminate casework samples. We provide a Bayesian statistical model to estimate the minimum number of dust samples needed to detect all inhabitants of a location. The results of this study suggest that air and dust could become novel sources of evidence to identify current and past occupants of a crime scene.
Have clinical research and related recommendations been consistent enough for informing the treatment of advanced esophageal cancer patients with anticancer drugs? A critical historical review
Authors: Santero Marilina , Savall-Esteve Olga , Bracchiglione Javier , Requeijo Carolina , Cosp Xavier Bonfill
Published: August 2023

Purpose
to analyse the soundest research and recommendations that have informed the potential superiority of treatments with anticancer drugs over any type of supportive care for advanced esophageal cancer (EC).
Methods
We conducted a critical historical review. First, we identified randomised clinical trials (RCTs) from a previous scoping review performed by our research group ASTAC updating the search strategy. Second, we searched for the most important and recognized international clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) in advanced EC. Finally, we performed a systematic document analysis comparing whether the recommendations proposed in the CPGs were supported by the previously identified relevant evidence.
Results
We identified and assessed 15 randomised clinical trials and 11 clinical practice guidelines from ESMO (eight), ASCO (two) and NICE (one) published in the last 40 years. There is a clear mismatch between these guidelines’ recommendations and the available RCTs in order to inform whether anticancer drugs are more beneficial than BSC.
Conclusion
There is a lack of consistent evidence to treat advanced EC patients as well as a mismatch between the existing evidence and the recommendations made by relevant CPGs. As a consequence, they could have been biased when favouring the use of anticancer drugs over the supportive care.
Between the dog and the wolf – An interpretative phenomenological analysis of bicultural, sexual minority people’s lived experiences
Authors: Miller Emelie Louise , Zakrisson Ingrid
Published: August 2023

Previous research in social psychology has, via intersectional approaches, established that individuals with multiple-minority identities frequently wrestle with psychosocial dilemmas in both ingroup and outgroup settings, which can impede a positive belonging and identity formation. The present study investigates lived experiences held by a multiple-minority group seldom provided sufficient consideration; bicultural, sexual minorities. In-depth interviews were conducted with eight non-heterosexual individuals, with second-generation immigration backgrounds, living in Sweden. Data was analyzed through a collaborative interpretative phenomenological analysis. Two overarching group experiential themes (GETs) were created: “A puzzle of identity struggles” and “Sources of empowerment”. The former included GETs detailing experiences of bullying, misidentification, parental shortcomings, gender issues, and severe mental health challenges. “Sources of empowerment” covered GETs focusing on strengthening factors in the participants’ experiences, which incorporated acts of love, pride in heritage, improved identification with sexuality, creative coping strategies, purpose in life, and positive belonging. Blurred lines existed between general stressors’ and minority-specific stressors’ impact on the participants’ lived experiences, which problematizes simplified understandings of multiple-minorities. Further research on experiences held by ethnic, sexual minority individuals is strongly encouraged, as are advances in multiple-minority knowledge among professionals within the educational, and mental health systems. This would facilitate preventive and interventive work that could improve life conditions and sense of belonging among non-heterosexual, ethnic minorities.
Low Dose Post-transplant Cyclophosphamide and Sirolimus Induce Mixed Chimerism with CTLA4-Ig or Lymphocyte Depletion in an MHC-Mismatched Murine Allotransplantation Model
Authors: Fitzhugh Courtney , Kabore Mariama Djelika , McElrath Corbin , Ali Mohamed , Almengo Katherine , Gangaplara Arun , Fisher Cameron , Barretto Mauricio , Shaikh Ahmad , Olkhanud Purevdorj , Xu Xin , Gaskin Deanna , Saxena Ankit , Lopez-Ocasio Maria , McCoy Phillip
Published: August 2023

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HCT) offers a curative option for patients with non-malignant hematological diseases. High-dose post-transplant cyclophosphamide (PT-Cy, 200 mg/kg) and sirolimus (Sir, 3 mg/kg) synergistically induce stable mixed chimerism. Further, Sir and cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen-4 immunoglobulin (CTLA4-Ig) promote immune tolerance and allograft survival. Here, in a major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-mismatched allo-HCT murine model, we combined CTLA4-Ig and T-cell depleting anti-Thy1.2 with a lower dose of PT-Cy. We demonstrate that low-dose PT-Cy and Sir combined with anti-Thy1.2, with or without CTLA4-Ig, induced similar donor chimerism levels compared to high-dose PT-Cy and Sir. Engrafted groups displayed significantly reduced frequencies of recipient-specific interferon-γ-producing T cells and natural killer (NK) cells. Interestingly, an increased frequency in regulatory T cells (Tregs) was found in engrafted mice except when CTLA4-Ig is combined with low-dose PT-Cy. Splenocytes collected from engrafted mice showed no proliferation upon restimulation with Balb/c stimulators. Collectively, low-dose PT-Cy and Sir combined with Thy1.2 with or without CTLA4-Ig induced mixed chimerism and Treg mediated donor unresponsiveness and reduced inflammatory T cells and B cells. In combination with CTLA4-Ig or lymphocyte depletion, low-dose PT-Cy and Sir may be considered in future regimens to reduce graft rejection in patients who undergo allo-HCT.
New Insights into RPE-Photoreceptor Complex Ultrastructure using Focused Ion Beam-Scanning Election Microscopy (FIB-SEM)
Authors: Low Shermaine W.Y. , Lim Rayne R. , Grant DeAna G. , Patterson Sam , Chaurasia Shyam S.
Published: August 2023

Photoreceptors in the retina are specialized neuronal cells that perceive light and play a central role in the visual system. Damage to photoreceptors is a clinical feature often associated with various retinal degenerative disorders. The photoreceptor bed comprises a unique extracellular matrix (ECM) scaffold often described as the interphotoreceptor matrix (IPM) in the subretinal space, vital during retinal development and homeostasis. In this study, we used focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to analyze the ultrastructural architecture of the retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE)-photoreceptor complex in mice. Additionally, we describe methods for retinal preparation in EM imaging. TEM images display ultrastructural retina layers, including Bruch’s membrane and the interdigitation zone (IZ). The 3-dimensional reconstruction of the outer retina revealed individual photoreceptors, the connection between their inner and outer segment via the photoreceptor cilia, and photoreceptor interaction with the RPE ciliary processes. Our findings highlight the importance of FIB-SEM in deciphering the ultrastructural details of RPE-photoreceptor interactions in the IPM complex which are essential for the maintenance of retinal architecture.
Predictors of the therapeutic effect of Nab-paclitaxel plus gemcitabine therapy for patients with recurrent pancreatic cancer after pancreatectomy
Authors: Kawaida Hiromichi , Hosomura Naohiro , Amemiya Hidetake , Saito Ryo , Shoda Katsutoshi , Furuya Shinji , Akaike Hidenori , Kawaguchi Yoshihiko , Kono Hiroshi , Fukasawa Yoshimitsu , Kawakami Satoshi , Shindo Hiroko , Takahashi Ei , Takano Shinichi , Fukasawa Mitsuharu , Simizu Tatsuya , Itakura Jun , Enomoto Nobuyuki , Fujii Hideki , Ichikawa Daisuke
Published: August 2023

Background/Aim
Nab-paclitaxel plus gemcitabine (GnP) is one of the standard chemotherapeutic schemes of treatment of advanced pancreatic cancer (PC). The current study has the aim to outline the predictors of therapeutic effect of GnP in the cases with recurrent PC after pancreatectomy.
Patients and Methods
We retrospectively evaluated the clinicopathological characteristics of patients with recurrent PC after pancreatectomy who received GnP at our institution from January 2016 to February 2021. We examined various inflammatory markers [neutrophil lymphocyte ratio (NLR), lymphocyte monocyte ratio (LMR), platelet lymphocyte ratio (PLR), C-reactive protein albumin ratio (CAR)] and a nutritional marker [ prognostic nutritional index (PNI) ] in addition to common clinicopathological characteristics as possible predictors of the chemotherapeutic effects of GnP.
Results
Univariate analysis identified PLR, CAR, and histological differentiation as significant predictors of better chemotherapeutic effects. Meanwhile, multivariate analysis identified only histological differentiation as an independent predictor of better chemotherapeutic effects. Accordingly, patients with well-differentiated adenocarcinoma showed better overall survival after recurrence than those with other histological types.
Conclusion
Histological differentiation can be a useful predictor of the therapeutic effects of GnP in the clinical cases of recurrent PC after pancreatectomy.
Abnormal Centriolar Biomarker Ratios Correlate with Unexplained Bull Artificial Insemination Subfertility – a Pilot Study
Authors: Turner Katerina A. , Achinger Luke , Kong Dong , Kluczynski Derek F. , Fishman Emily Lillian , Phillips Audrey , Saltzman Barbara , Loncarek Jadranka , Harstine Bo R. , Avidor-Reiss Tomer
Published: August 2023

The mechanisms underlying male infertility are poorly understood. Most mammalian spermatozoa have two centrioles: the typical barrel-shaped proximal centriole (PC) and the atypical fan-like distal centriole (DC) connected to the axoneme (Ax). These structures are essential for fertility. However, the relationship between centriole quality and subfertility (reduced fertility) is not well established. Here, we tested the hypothesis that assessing sperm centriole quality can identify cattle subfertility. By comparing sperm from 25 fertile and 6 subfertile bulls, all with normal semen analyses, we found that unexplained subfertility and lower sire conception rates (pregnancy rate from artificial insemination in cattle) corelate with abnormal centriolar biomarker distribution. Fluorescence-based Ratiometric Analysis of Sperm Centrioles (FRAC) found only four fertile bulls (4/25, 16%) had positive FRAC tests (having one or more mean FRAC ratios outside of the distribution range in a group’s high-quality sperm population), whereas all of the subfertile bulls (6/6, 100%) had positive FRAC tests (P=0.00008). The most sensitive biomarker was Acetylated Tubulin, which had a novel labeling pattern between the DC and Ax. These data suggest that FRAC and Acetylated Tubulin labeling can identify bull subfertility that remains undetected by current methods and may provide insight into a novel mechanism of subfertility.
Survey on Drosophila suzukii and Ceratitis capitata (Diptera: Drosophilidae, Tephritidae) and associated Eucoilinae species (Hymenoptera: Figitidae) in northwestern Argentina. First record of Dicerataspis grenadensis and Leptopilina boulardi as parasitoids of D. suzukii
Authors: Reche Vanina Anadina , Biancheri Maria Josefina Buonocore , Cao Luciana Marina , Suárez Lorena del Carmen , Ovruski Sergio Marcelo , Kirschbaum Daniel Santiago , Garcia Flávio Roberto Mello , Gallardo Fabiana Edith
Published: August 2023

The Southeast Asian-nativeDrosophila suzukii(Matsumura) (Diptera: Drosophilidae), also known as “spotted-wing Drosophila”, is one of the most globally invasive agricultural species. AlthoughD. suzukiiis a pest spread throughout all the Argentinian fruit-growing regions, few information has been published on its impact on local fruit production. Parasitoid species associated withD. suzukiiin Argentina belong to Pteromalidae (Chalcidoidea), Diapriidae (Diaprioidea), both attacking host pupae, and Figitidae (Cynipoidea), which attacks host larvae. Nine Eucoilinae (Figitidae) species, belonging toDicerataspis, Dieucoila, Euxestophaga, Ganaspis, HexacolaandLeptopilinagenera, have been associated withD. suzukiiin Argentina,.Ceratitis capitata(Wiedemann), commonly known as “medfly”, is native to Africa and has a worldwide distribution, covering many tropical, subtropical and temperate regions. In Argentina,C. capitatahas been associated with several native hymenopterous parasitoids belonging to Braconidae (Ichneumonioidea), Eulophidae (Chalcidoidea), Pteromalidae, Diapriidae and Figitidae families. Only two eucoline species,Ganaspis pelleranoi(Brèthes) andRhoptromeris haywardi(Blanchard) have been related to medfly in Argentina. We report new trophic associations between the parasitoidsDicerataspis grenadensisAshmead andLeptopilina boulardi(Barbotin, Carton and Kelner-Pillault) andD. suzukii, andbetween the parasitoidOdontosema albinerveKieffer andC. capitata, after surveys conducted in Tucumán, northwestern Argentina. An annotated checklist and a taxonomic key of Eucoilinae associated with both invasive pests, in Argentina, is also provided.
Adaptive immune changes associate with clinical progression of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Olst Lynn van , Kamermans Alwin , Halters Sem , Pol Susanne M.A. van der , Rodriguez Ernesto , Verberk Inge M.W. , Verberk Sanne G.S. , Wessels Danielle W.R. , Rodriguez-Mogeda Carla , Verhoeff Jan , Wouters Dorine , Bossche Jan Van den , Garcia-Vallejo Juan J. , Lemstra Afina W. , Witte Maarten E. , Flier Wiesje M. van der , Teunissen Charlotte C.E. , de Vries Helga E.
Published: August 2023

Background: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most frequent cause of dementia. Recent evidence suggests the involvement of peripheral immune cells in the disease, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Methods: We comprehensively mapped peripheral immune changes in AD patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia compared to controls, using cytometry by time-of-flight (CyTOF). Results: We found an adaptive immune signature in AD, and specifically highlight the accumulation of PD1+CD57+CD8+T effector memory cells re-expressing CD45RA in the MCI stage of AD. In addition, several innate and adaptive immune cell subsets correlated to CSF biomarkers of AD neuropathology and measures for cognitive decline. Intriguingly, subsets of memory T and B cells were negatively associated with CSF biomarkers for tau pathology, neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation in AD patients. Lastly, we established the influence of the APOE ε4 allele on peripheral immunity. Conclusions: Our findings illustrate significant peripheral immune alterations associated with both early and late clinical stages of AD, emphasizing the necessity for further investigation into how these changes influence underlying brain pathology.
Predicting Dimensional Antidepressant Response to Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation using Pretreatment Resting-state Functional Connectivity
Authors: Wade Benjamin , Barbour Tracy , Ellard Kristen , Camprodon Joan
Published: August 2023

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is an effective treatment for depression and has been shown to modulate resting-state functional connectivity (RSFC) of depression-relevant neural circuits. To date, however, few studies have investigated whether individual treatment-related symptom changes are predictable from pretreatment RSFC. We use machine learning to predict dimensional changes in depressive symptoms using pretreatment patterns of RSFC. We hypothesized that changes in dimensional depressive symptoms would be predicted more accurately than scale total scores. Patients with depression (n=26) underwent pretreatment RSFC MRI. Depressive symptoms were assessed with the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS-17). Random forest regression (RFR) models were trained and tested to predict treatment-related symptom changes captured by the HDRS-17, HDRS-6 and three previously identified HDRS subscales: core mood/anhedonia (CMA), somatic disturbances, and insomnia. Changes along the CMA, HDRS-17, and HDRS-6 were predicted significantly above chance, with 9%, 2%, and 2% of out-of-sample outcome variance explained, respectively (all p<0.01). CMA changes were predicted more accurately than the HDRS-17 (p<0.05). Higher baseline global connectivity (GC) of default mode network (DMN) subregions and the somatomotor network (SMN) predicted poorer symptom reduction, while higher GC of the right dorsal attention (DAN) frontoparietal control (FPCN), and visual networks (VN) predicted reduced CMA symptoms. HDRS-17 and HDRS-6 changes were predicted with similar GC patterns. These results suggest that RSFC spanning the DMN, SMN, DAN, FPCN, and VN subregions predict dimensional changes with greater accuracy than syndromal changes following rTMS. These findings highlight the need to assess more granular clinical dimensions in therapeutic studies, particularly device neuromodulation studies, and echo earlier studies supporting that dimensional outcomes improve model accuracy.
Diversity of Anastrepha spp. (Diptera: Tephritidae) in the Chaco Biome
Authors: de Lima Jéssica Quéren Alves , Nascimento José Nicácio , Uchoa Manoel Araécio , Garcia Flávio Roberto Mello
Published: August 2023

Species of the genus Anastrepha cause injuries to several fruits and vegetables in the Nearctic and Neotropical regions. Among these species, many are present in Brazil. In this study, we surveyed the existing Anastrepha species in the Brazilian Chaco Biome. And we evaluated possible influences of climate and vegetation on the occurrence of Anastrepha spp. For this, we used McAlpine traps and hydrolyzed corn protein as bait. Collections were carried out in three distinct floristic compositions in the Chaco biome, from permanently dry areas to flooded sites. We identified Anastrepha fraterculus (Wiedemann, 1830), A. sororcula Zucchi 1979, A. undosa Stone 1942d daciformis Bezzi 1909. The dry and flooded environment did not influence the occurrence of Anastrepha species. The highest probability of occurrence was in vegetation with an intermediate density of the distribution of plants, between 25 and 75%. Being 25% low and 25% high of the total. The presence of multiple hosts increases the number of species. The richness and abundance of Anastrepha species are low in the Brazilian Chaco when compared to other native environments.
SERNA: A Stacking-Based Classification Algorithm for Early Prediction of ICU Needs for COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Fili Mohammad , Mohammadiarvejeh Parvin , Hu Guiping
Published: August 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic exerted an unprecedented strain on healthcare systems, with millions of hospitalizations and intensive care unit (ICU) admissions. The overwhelming demand for ICU beds necessitates the efficient allocation of resources and early prediction of patients’ ICU needs. In this paper, we introduce SERNA (Stacked Ensemble using Regional and Neighborhood Assessment), a novel stacking-based classification algorithm that predicts ICU needs within the first 2 hours of patient admission. The SERNA algorithm employs novel procedures to create new feature sets, establishing connections between data point locations and learners’ local performances. These generated features are then fed into a meta-learner, which strategically assigns higher weights to strong learners and lower weights to weaker ones. We evaluated the proposed algorithm using COVID-19 ICU admission data, comparing its performance against various baseline models. Remarkably, the SERNA algorithm achieved a recall of 90% and an AUC of 80%, surpassing all baseline models. It exhibited an improvement in accuracy by 3%, precision by 1%, recall by 14%, F1 score by 6%, and AUC by 4%. Notably, these results were achieved by utilizing data only from the first 2 hours after admission, enabling a crucial reduction in reaction time of 10–22 hours compared to previous studies.
Exposure of Caralluma tuberculata to Biogenic Selenium Nanoparticles as in vitro rooting agent: Stimulates Morpho-Physiological and Antioxidant Defense System
Authors: Ali Amir , Mashwani Zia-ur-Rehman , Raja Naveed Iqbal , Mohammad Sher , Luna-Arias Juan Pedro
Published: August 2023

The commercial-scale production of Caralluma tuberculata faces significant challenges due to lower seed viability and sluggish rate of root growth in natural conditions. To overcome these obstacles, using phyto mediated selenium nanomaterials as an invitro rooting agent in plant invitro cultures is a promising approach to facilitate rapid propagation and enhance the production of valuable therapeutic compounds. This study aimed to investigate the impact of phytosynthesized selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) on the morphological growth attributes, physiological status, and secondary metabolite fabrication in in vitro micro propagated Caralluma tuberculata. The results demonstrated that a lower dose of SeNPs (100 µg/L) along with Plant growth regulators (IBA: 1 mg/L) had an affirmative effect on growth parameters and promoted earliest root initiation (4.6±0.98 days), highest root frequency (68.21±5.12%), number of roots (6.3±1.8), maximum fresh weight (710±6.01 mg) and dry weight (549.89±6.77 mg). However, higher levels of SeNPs (200 and 400 µg/L) in the growth media proved detrimental to growth and development. Further, stressed caused by SeNPs at 100 ug/L along with PGRs (IBA: 1 mg/L) produced higher level of total chlorophyll contents (32.66± 4.36 ug/ml), while cultures exposed to 200 ug/L SeNPs alone exhibited maximum amount of Proline contents (10.5± 1.32 ug/ml). Interestingly, exposure to 400 µg/L SeNPs induced a stress response in the cultures, leading to increased levels of total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity (3.4 ± 0.052, 1.8 ± 0.034 and mg/g dry weight: DW and 82 ± 4.8%). Furthermore, the combination of 100 µg/L SeNPs and plant growth regulators (1 mg/L IBA) led to accelerated enzymatic antioxidant activities, including superoxide dismutase (SOD = 4.4 ± 0.067 U/mg), peroxidase dismutase (POD = 3.3 ± 0.043 U/mg), catalase (CAT = 2.8 ± 0.048 U/mg), and ascorbate peroxidase (APx = 1.6 ± 0.082 U/mg). This is the first report that highlights the efficacy of SeNPs in culture media and presents a promising approach for the commercial propagation of C. tuberculata with strong antioxidant defense system in vitro.
Improved Prediction of Clinical Pregnancy Using Artificial Intelligence with Enhanced Inner Cell Mass and Trophectoderm Images
Authors: Kim Hyung Min , Ko Taehoon , Kang Hyoeun , Choi Sungwook , Park Jong Hyuk , Chung Mi Kyung , Kim Miran , Kim Na Young , Lee Hye Jun
Published: August 2023

This study aimed to assess the performance of an artificial intelligence (AI) model for predicting clinical pregnancy using enhanced inner cell mass (ICM) and trophectoderm (TE) images. In this retrospective study, we included static images of 2,555 day-5-blastocysts from seven in vitro fertilization centers in South Korea. The main outcome of the study was the predictive capability of the model to detect clinical pregnancies (gestational sac). Compared to the original embryo images, the use of enhanced ICM and TE images improved the average area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for the AI model from 0.716 to 0.741. Additionally, a gradient-weighted class activation mapping analysis demonstrated that the AI model utilizing the enhanced ICM and TE images was able to extract features from crucial areas of the embryo, including the ICM and TE, in 99% (506/512) of the cases. In contrast, the AI model trained on the original images focused on the main areas in only 86% (438/512) of the cases. Our results highlight the potential efficacy of utilizing ICM- and TE-enhanced embryo images in AI models for the prediction of clinical pregnancy.
Ability of nitrogen-fixing bacteria to alleviate drought stress in cowpea varies depending on the origin of the inoculated strain
Authors: Correa Sulamita Santos , Pacheco Rafael Sanches , Viana Guilherme Caldieraro , Vidal Márcia Soares , Xavier Gustavo Ribeiro , Simoes-Araujo Jean Luiz
Published: August 2023

Background and Aims
Drought is one of the main causes of global crop decline. Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria enhance plant tolerance to adverse environmental conditions. This study aimed to determine whether the rhizobacteria Microvirga vignae (BR 3296 and BR 3299) and Bradyrhizobium sp. (BR 3301) can maintain cowpea growth under drought stress.
Methods
We analyzed biomass, nodulation, nitrogen accumulation, and physiological traits of the inoculated plants. Rhizobacterial strains were assessed for exopolysaccharide (EPS) and indole acetic acid (IAA) production, growth, and biofilm formation in a water-stress medium induced by polyethylene glycol (PEG)-6000. The expression of genes associated with abscisic acid (ABA) biosynthesis in root nodules was also investigated.
Results
All evaluated strains were grown in a culture medium supplemented with PEG. M. vignae strains exhibited increased biofilm formation and EPS production, while Bradyrhizobium showed high IAA production. Cowpea plants inoculated with Bradyrhizobium exhibit higher levels of nodulation, biomass, and nitrogen accumulation. Conversely, M. vignae strains were more efficient at alleviating drought stress and maintaining nodulation, biomass, nitrogen accumulation, and stomatal conductance similar to well-watered plants. Drought-inducible genes were more strongly upregulated in the nodules of plants inoculated with Bradyrhizobium than in those inoculated with M. vignae.
Conclusion
Our results suggest that M. vignae strains, isolated from a semi-arid region, help plants withstand water-stress, whereas the strain of Bradyrhizobium sp. isolated from a wet region did not effectively alleviate drought stress. However, Bradyrhizobium sp. conferred growth and nitrogen accumulation to cowpea superior to M. vignae and like plants supplied with nitrogen fertilizer.
The effect of clinical nurses’ job-esteem on work engagement: Identifying mediating and moderating effects of positive nursing organizational culture
Authors: Cha Ji-Eun , Choi Eun-Hi
Published: August 2023

Background
Nursing services play an important role in providing quality healthcare. However, the association of positive nursing organizational culture with job esteem and work engagement of clinical nurses is not well established. In this study, we assessed the mediating and moderating effects of positive nursing organizational culture and job esteem on work engagement among clinical nurses.
Methods
The study adopted a descriptive correlational design. A total of 200 nurses with more than six months’ experience at two university hospitals in Korea participated in the study. Data were collected using a questionnaire which comprised questions on general characteristics of the participants, positive nursing organizational culture, the Job-Esteem Scale for Korean Nurses, and the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale.
Results
The results revealed that the direct effect of job esteem on work engagement, indirect effect via positive nursing organizational culture, and total effect were statistically significant. The moderating effect of positive nursing organizational culture on job esteem was not statistically significant.
Conclusion
The results highlight the need for a development plan to increase job esteem and create a positive nursing organizational culture to improve the work engagement of clinical nurses. Nursing colleges also need to implement measures to improve job esteem and develop step-by-step education programs, interventions, and policy support considering clinical experience. Moreover, establishment of fair procedures and appropriate compensation may boost nurses’ morale leading to increased work engagement.
Study on different mass ratio of the cathode and anode electrode of LiMn2O4//AC lithium ion capacitor
Authors: Fang Wenying , Yan Liangliang , An Zhongxun , Xia Hengheng
Published: August 2023

Lithium ion capacitors have high energy density and power density, among of which lithium manganate is low cost of intrinsic value, simultaneously the recovery technology of manganese is relatively mature. Therefore, it has special advantages in terms of economy. This paper applies for LiMn2O4 as the cathode electrode and AC as the anode electrode to explore the influence of the mass ratio of cathode and anode electrodes on the electrochemical performance of LiMn2O4//AC lithium ion capacitors. The results show that when the mass ratio of cathode and anode electrodes is 1:1, the specific capacity of the lithium ion capacitor can reach maximized, up to 24.33 mAh g-1. Meanwhile, the cathode electrode potential is below 4.3V, the anode electrode potential is above 1.6V as well as the rate performance and self-discharge performance are the best. At a voltage range of 0.3-2.5V, the energy density can reach 35.5 Wh/kg at a power density 34.9 W/kg. When the mass ratio of the cathode and anode electrodes is less than 1:1, the cathode electrode is insufficient. The capacity is basically not attenuated after 500 cycles, but the electrochemical impedance is large and the polarization is rather obvious. The XRD diffraction peak is weakened and the surface morphology of the electrode is blurred with cracking material particles. The study suggests that the capacity ratio of cathode and anode has a crucial effect on the electrical performance of lithium ion capacitors.