bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Transformable Specific‐Responsive Peptide for One‐Step Synergistic Therapy of Bladder Cancer
Authors: Wang Zi‐Qi , Qu Tian‐Rui , Zhang Zhi‐Shuai , Zeng Fan‐Shu , Song Hong‐Jian , Zhang Kuo , Guo Pengyu , Tong Zhichao , Hou Da‐Yong , Liu Xiao , Wang Lu , Wang Hao , Xu Wanhai
Published: April 2024

Synergistic therapy has shown greater advantages compared with monotherapy. However, the complex multiple‐administration plan and potential side effects limit its clinical application. A transformable specific‐responsive peptide (TSRP) is utilized to one‐step achieve synergistic therapy integrating anti‐tumor, anti‐angiogenesis and immune response. The TSRP is composed of: i) Recognition unit could specifically target and inhibit the biological function of FGFR‐1; ii) Transformable unit could self‐assembly and trigger nanofibers formation; iii) Reactive unit could specifically cleaved by MMP‐2/9 in tumor micro‐environment; iv) Immune unit, stimulate the release of immune cells when LTX‐315 (Immune‐associated oncolytic peptide) exposed. Once its binding to FGFR‐1, the TSRP could cleaved by MMP‐2/9 to form the nanofibers on the cell membrane, with a retention time of up to 12 h. Through suppressing the phosphorylation levels of ERK 1/2 and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways downstream of FGFR‐1, the TSRP significant inhibit the growth of tumor cells and the formation of angioginesis. Furthermore, LTX‐315 is exposed after TSRP cleavage, resulting in Calreticulin activation and CD8+ T cells infiltration. All above processes together contribute to the increasing survival rate of tumor‐bearing mice by nearly 4‐folds. This work presented a unique design for the biological application of one‐step synergistic therapy of bladder cancer.
Multifunctional Super‐Hydrophilic MXene/Biomass Composite Aerogel Evaporator for Efficient Solar‐Driven Desalination and Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Chen Shilin , Zheng Dafeng , Cen Qiulan , Yoo Chang Geun , Zhong Lei , Yang Dongjie , Qiu Xueqing
Published: April 2024

Solar‐driven interfacial evaporation is recognized as a sustainable and effective strategy for desalination to mitigate the freshwater scarcity issue. Nevertheless, the challenges of oil contamination, salt accumulation, and poor long‐term stability of the solar desalination process limit its applications. Herein, a 3D biomass‐based multifunctional solar aerogel evaporator is developed for water production with fabricated chitosan/lignin (CSL) aerogel as the skeleton, encapsulated with carbonized lignin (CL) particles and Ti3C2TiX (MXene) nanosheets as light‐absorbing materials. Benefitting from its super‐hydrophilic wettability, interconnected macropore structure, and high broadband light absorption (ca. 95.50%), the prepared CSL‐C@MXene‐20 mg evaporator exhibited a high and stable water evaporation flux of 2.351 kg m−2 h−1 with an energy conversion efficiency of 88.22% under 1 Sun (1 kW m−2) illumination. The CSL‐C@MXene‐20 mg evaporator performed excellent salt tolerance and long‐term solar vapor generation in a 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution. Also, its super‐hydrophilicity and oleophobicity resulted in superior salt resistance and anti‐fouling performance in high salinity brine (20 wt.% NaCl) and oily wastewater. This work offers new insight into the manufacture of porous and eco‐friendly biomass‐based photothermal aerogels for advanced solar‐powered seawater desalination and wastewater purification.
Holistic image‐based analysis of damage on concrete surfaces—A multifaceted approach based on supervised machine learning
Authors: Özcan Barış , Crampen David , Kratzer Zeno , Blankenbach Jörg
Published: April 2024

Traditional manual methods for inspecting damage on building structures, such as cracks or spalling on concrete surfaces, are laborious, costly, and error‐prone. Despite many attempts to automate this task using digital photographs, most studies primarily focus on detecting damage within images, neglecting the actual dimensions and their implications for structural integrity. To bridge this gap, we present a multifaceted approach for holistic damage analysis that not only detects damage within images but also determines its real‐world dimensions. To achieve this, we first distinguish between linear and areal damage, and apply two separate methods based on deep learning, each tailored to detect these specific types of damage within images. Additionally, we use a cost‐effective 3D‐printed laser projection device to project a grid of laser points onto the surface. This grid, with a known and fixed point‐to‐point distance, serves as a scale reference, facilitating true‐to‐scale measurements of the damage area. Furthermore, for depth estimation of areal damage, we employ models for monocular depth prediction trained in domains distinct from ours. We thoroughly evaluated our methods on realistic and challenging image datasets, which we captured ourselves in public space. The results show that our customized methods for damage detection achieved moderate results for linear damage and more promising results for areal damage. The quantification of damage area resulted in errors less than 10% across all evaluated images, which is suitable for most practical applications. However, estimating the depth of areal damage using models trained on distinct domains proved to be a challenge. Our research expands automated damage detection to include comprehensive, true‐to‐scale analysis of damage and underscores the need for continued refinement.
Are we ready for genetic testing in metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease?
Authors: Tulone Adele , Pennisi Grazia , Ciccioli Carlo , Infantino Giuseppe , La Mantia Claudia , Cannella Roberto , Mercurio Francesco , Petta Salvatore
Published: April 2024

Metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), with its steadily increasing prevalence, represents now a major problem in public health. A proper referral could benefit from tools allowing more precise risk stratification. To this end, in recent decades, several genetic variants that may help predict and refine the risk of development and progression of MASLD have been investigated. In this review, we aim to discuss the role genetics in MASLD plays in everyday clinical practice. We performed a comprehensive literature search of PubMed for relevant publications. Available evidence highlights the emergence of genetic‐based noninvasive algorithms for diagnosing fatty liver, metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatohepatitis, fibrosis progression and occurrence of liver‐related outcomes including hepatocellular carcinoma. Nevertheless, their accuracy is not optimal and application in everyday clinical practice remains challenging. Furthermore, susceptible genetic markers have recently become subjects of great scientific interest as therapeutic targets in precision medicine. In conclusion, decisional algorithms based on genetic testing in MASLD to facilitate the clinician decisions on management and treatment are under growing investigation and could benefit from artificial intelligence methodology.
Efficacy of perioperative systemic tranexamic acid along with topical hemocoagulase in decreasing axillary drain output in breast cancer patients undergoing axillary lymph node dissection: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, superiority trial
Authors: Verma Harshit , Jha Chandan Kumar , Singh Prashant Kumar , Sinha Upasna , Ahmad Shamshad , Pandey Jagjit Kumar , Kumar Manoj
Published: April 2024

Background

Excess and prolonged axillary drainage is a frequent nuisance following axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) in breast cancer patients. No consensus exists about the best method to prevent this consistently and reliably. Tranexamic acid (TA) has been found to reduce the amount and duration of drainage, but the reduction is not optimal. We hypothesized that systemic administration of TA along with the topical application of hemocoagulase (H) to the axillary dissection bed may decrease the cumulative axillary drain output and shorten the requirement of drainage after ALND as compared to placebo.

Patient and Methods

Seventy women undergoing ALND for breast carcinoma were randomized into two groups, the intervention (TA + H) group and the control (C) group. The cumulative drain output (primary objective), duration of drainage, incidence of seroma formation after drain removal, number of seroma aspirations required, volume of seroma aspirated, and incidence of surgical site infection (SSI) were compared.

Results

The mean cumulative output in the TA + H group was significantly lower than the C group (290 ± 200 mL vs. 552 ± 369 mL, p < 0.001). Axillary drains were removed significantly earlier in the TA + H group (6.6 ± 2.2 vs. 11.7 ± 6.0 days, p < 0.001), but the incidence of seroma formation (p = 0.34), number of aspirations required (p = 0.33), volume of seroma aspirated (p = 0.47), and the incidence of SSI (p = 0.07) were similar.

Conclusions

Perioperative systemic administration of tranexamic acid along with topical application of H to the axillary dissection bed is effective in reducing cumulative axillary drain output after ALND. This strategy may also facilitate earlier removal of suction drains.
Clinical effectiveness of a new scope warmer/cleaner for laparoscopic and thoracoscopic surgery
Authors: Yokouchi Takashi , Doki Yuichiro , Nakajima Kiyokazu
Published: April 2024

In laparoscopic and thoracoscopic surgery, maintaining clear visualization is crucial for safe and efficient operation. We have developed a new scope warmer/cleaner (Lapahot®) based on “hot‐pack” technology. We used our device in 20 consecutive laparoscopic and thoracoscopic cases and compared it with the conventional warm saline method. Lens fogging was not observed in any of the cases, and the cleaning function was comparable to the warm saline method. Moreover, continuous temperature monitoring showed that Lapahot® maintained its temperature much longer than warm saline. Our novel device has the potential to become the new standard for lens defogging and cleaning.
Water populism and the Iranians' collective adipsia
Authors: Khaneiki Majid Labbaf , Schmidt Matthias , Al‐Ghafri Abdullah Saif
Published: April 2024

This article examines Iran as an example, where the water crisis is dealt with through denial, projection, and securitization approaches, described as “water populism.” The Iranian polity systematically adopts denial and projection approaches to obscure an underlying causal chain whose first ring is ideology, and then, it resorts to the securitization of water to safeguard these approaches against public criticism. Ideology prescribes an intensive hydraulic mission to facilitate “strategic industries clustered together in the central desert” and “self‐sufficiency in food production,” in the wake of its antagonism toward the world's powers and the ensuing international sanctions. This hydraulic mission depletes the country's water resources and results in “water bankruptcy” that is reflected in ecological degradation and socio‐economic disintegration. Ideology not only obstructs the genuine process of problem solving but also gives rise to water populism that serves as a political sedative by either disavowing the water crisis or attributing the crisis to a wide range of technical‐managerial factors or stifling dissenting voices. Any solution to Iran's water crisis seems infeasible in the absence of an ideological reform.
Anisotropic dark energy from string compactifications
Authors: Gallego Diego , Orjuela-Quintana J. Bayron , Valenzuela-Toledo César A.
Published: April 2024

Abstract

We explore the cosmological dynamics of a minimalistic yet generic string-inspired model for multifield dark energy. Adopting a supergravity four-dimensional viewpoint, we motivate the model’s structure arising from superstring compactifications involving a chiral superfield and a pure U(1) gauge sector. The chiral sector gives rise to a pair of scalar fields, such as the axio-dilaton, which are kinetically coupled. However, the scalar potential depends on only one of them, further entwined with the vector field through the gauge kinetic function. The model has two anisotropic attractor solutions that, despite a steep potential and thanks to multifield dynamics, could explain the current accelerated expansion of the Universe while satisfying observational constraints on the late-times cosmological anisotropy. Nevertheless, justifying the parameter space allowing for slow roll dynamics together with the correct cosmological parameters, would be challenging within the landscape of string theory. Intriguingly, we find that the vector field, particularly at one of the studied fixed points, plays a crucial role in enabling geodesic trajectories in the scalar field space while realizing slow-roll dynamics with a steep potential. This observation opens a new avenue for exploring multifield dark energy models within the superstring landscape.
Efficiency of working coveralls and chemical resistant gloves in reducing operator exposure to pesticides
Authors: Kuster Christian J. , Kluxen Felix M. , Felkers Edgars , Morgan Neil , Hewitt Nicola J. , Durand-Reville Julien
Published: April 2024

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is used to reduce exposure when working with chemicals. For pesticides, exposure scenarios comprise mixing and loading (M&L) and application. The exposure prediction model recommended by European regulatory agencies for operator risk assessments—the Agricultural Operator Exposure Model (AOEM) – is based on 48 operator exposure studies involving over 500 professional operators from 10 European countries in typical working situations to assess exposure under realistic field conditions. We used the AOEM data to assess the efficiency of exposure reduction resulting from wearing chemical-resistant nitrile gloves and non-certified working coveralls during M&L (tank and backpack sprayer), applications using groundboom and airblast spraying, and outdoor and indoor (greenhouse) applications using handheld sprayers. All studies indicated consistent and high exposure reduction > 90% for gloves and non-certified coveralls across all investigated scenarios. Exceptions were almost exclusively observed when an operator incorrectly used the PPE. The mean exposure reduction from all operators, including those that used PPE incorrectly, was 95.0% for gloves and 96.4% for polyester/cotton working coveralls during M&L, and 91.1% for gloves and 94.9% for non-certified coveralls during all application scenarios. This analysis confirms the essential role of PPE and non-certified working coveralls in reducing operator exposure to pesticides. Outliers indicate that operators need to be properly trained and adhere to label instructions to apply pesticides according to good agricultural practices.
Interleukin 33 supports squamous cell carcinoma growth via a dual effect on tumour proliferation, migration and invasion, and T cell activation
Authors: Perri Graziela , Vilas Boas Vanessa Garcia , Nogueira Maria Renata Sales , Mello Júnior Edgard José Franco , Coelho Ana Lucia , Posadas Edwin M. , Hogaboam Cory , Cavassani Karen A , Campanelli Ana Paula
Published: April 2024

Interleukin (IL)-33 is an important cytokine in the tumour microenvironment; it is known to promote the growth and metastasis of solid cancers, such as gastric, colorectal, ovarian and breast cancer. Our group demonstrated that the IL-33/ST2 pathway enhances the development of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Conversely, other researchers have reported that IL-33 inhibits tumour progression. In addition, the crosstalk between IL-33, cancer cells and immune cells in SCC remains unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of IL-33 on the biology of head and neck SCC lines and to evaluate the impact of IL-33 neutralisation on the T cell response in a preclinical model of SCC. First, we identified epithelial and peritumoural cells as a major local source of IL-33 in human SCC samples. Next, in vitro experiments demonstrated that the addition of IL-33 significantly increased the proliferative index, motility and invasiveness of SCC-25 cells, and downregulated MYC gene expression in SCC cell lines. Finally, IL-33 blockade significantly delayed SCC growth and led to a marked decrease in the severity of skin lesions. Importantly, anti-IL-33 monoclonal antibody therapy increase the percentage of CD4+IFNγ+ T cells and decreased CD4+ and CD8+ T cells secreting IL-4 in tumour-draining lymph nodes. Together, these data suggest that the IL-33/ST2 pathway may be involved in the crosstalk between the tumour and immune cells by modulating the phenotype of head and neck SCC and T cell activity. IL-33 neutralisation may offer a novel therapeutic strategy for SCC.
Evaluation of anorectal function using real-time tissue elastography before and after preoperative chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Sakamoto Akira , Sasaki Kazuhito , Nozawa Hiroaki , Murono Koji , Emoto Shigenobu , Yokoyama Yuichiro , Matsuzaki Hiroyuki , Nagai Yuzo , Abe Shinya , Shinagawa Takahide , Sonoda Hirofumi , Ishihara Soichiro
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to clarify the relationship between changes in elasticity and anorectal function before and after chemoradiotherapy.

Methods

This is a single-center prospective cohort study (Department of Surgical Oncology, The University of Tokyo). We established a technique to quantify internal anal sphincter hardness as elasticity using transanal ultrasonography with real-time tissue elastography. Twenty-seven patients with post-chemoradiotherapy rectal cancer during 2019–2022 were included. Real-time tissue elastography with transanal ultrasonography was performed before and after chemoradiotherapy to measure internal anal sphincter hardness as “elasticity” (hardest (0) to softest (255); decreased elasticity indicated sclerotic changes). The relationship between the increase or decrease in elasticity pre- and post-chemoradiotherapy and the maximum resting pressure, maximum squeeze pressure, and Wexner score were the outcome measures.

Results

A decrease in elasticity was observed in 16/27 (59.3%) patients after chemoradiotherapy. Patients with and without elasticity decrease after chemoradiotherapy comprised the internal anal sphincter sclerosis and non-sclerosis groups, respectively. The maximum resting pressure post-chemoradiotherapy was significantly high in the internal anal sphincter sclerosis group (63.0 mmHg vs. 47.0 mmHg), and a majority had a worsening Wexner score (60.0% vs. 18.2%) compared with that of the non-sclerosis group. Decreasing elasticity (internal anal sphincter sclerosis) correlated with a higher maximum resting pressure (r = 0.36); no correlation was observed between the degree of elasticity change and maximum squeeze pressure.

Conclusion

Internal anal sphincter sclerosis due to chemoradiotherapy may correlate to anorectal dysfunction.
Complex periprosthetic wound coverage in patients undergoing revision total knee arthroplasty: a single plastic surgeon study
Authors: Brenneis Marco , Flevas Dimitrios A. , Gayle Lloyd B. , Boettner Friedrich , Sculco Peter K. , Westrich Geoffrey H.
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Options for soft tissue coverage in revision total knee arthroplasty (rTKA) range from primary wound closure to complex muscle flap reconstructions. The purpose of this study was to investigate the institutional experience of wound coverage options for complex soft tissue defects in rTKA.

Materials and methods

77 patients undergoing rTKA with complex wound closure by a single plastic surgeon were retrospectively reviewed. The average follow-up was 30.1 months. In 18 (23.4%) patients, an intraoperative decision for primary closure was made. Fifty-nine patients (76.6%) received either a local fasciocutaneous (N = 18), a medial gastrocnemius (N = 37), a free latissimus dorsi (N = 3) or a lateral gastrocnemius flap (N = 1). Revision-free survival and complication rates were assessed and risk factors were analyzed with Cox-regression analysis.

Results

Medial gastrocnemius flaps had significant lower cumulative revision-free survival rates than local fasciocutaneous flaps (P = 0.021) and primary closures (P < 0.001) (42.5% vs. 71.5% vs. 100%,respectively). Comparing the most common complex closure procedures medial gastrocnemius flaps had the highest rate of prolonged wound healing (29.7%) and infection/reinfection (40.5%). Infection-associated flap procedures had significant lower cumulative revision-free survival rates (30.5%) than non-infection associated flap procedures (62.8%,P = 0.047). A history of more than two prior surgeries (HR = 6.11,P < 0.001) and an age ≥ 65 years (HR = 0.30,P = 0.018) significantly increased the risk of revision.

Conclusions

The results of this study indicate that primary closure -if possible- should be preferred to early proactive muscle flap coverage. Even in the hands of an experienced plastic surgeon muscle flaps have high revision and complication rates. The study highlights the need to clarify flap indications and to investigate alternative approaches.
Subthreshold micropulse laser combined with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy for diabetic macular edema: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Hosoya Hironori , Ueta Takashi , Hirasawa Kazunori , Toyama Taku , Shiraya Tomoyasu
Published: April 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the effects of subthreshold micropulse laser (SML) in addition to anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy for diabetic macular edema (DME).

Methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were systematically searched for studies that compared anti-VEGF with SML and anti-VEGF monotherapy for DME. Outcome measures were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central macular thickness (CMT), and the number of anti-VEGF injections.

Results

Eight studies including 493 eyes were selected. Four studies were randomized controlled, and the other four were retrospective. Meta-analysis showed that there was no significant difference in BCVA (mean difference [MD] -0.04; 95%CI -0.09 to 0.01 logMAR; P = 0.13;). CMT was thinner in the group of anti-VEGF with SML (MD -11.08; 95%CI -21.04 to -1.12 µm; P = 0.03); however, it was due to a single study that weighed higher, and the sensitivity and subcategory analyses did not support the finding. The number of anti-VEGF injections was significantly decreased in the group of anti-VEGF with SML (MD -2.22; 95%CI -3.02 to -1.42; P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Current evidence indicates that adding SML to anti-VEGF therapy could significantly reduce the number of anti-VEGF injections compared to anti-VEGF monotherapy, while achieve similar BCVA and CMT.
Anatomical and volumetric description of the guiana dolphin (Sotalia guianensis) brain from an ultra-high-field magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Avelino-de-Souza Kamilla , Mynssen Heitor , Chaim Khallil , Parks Ashley N. , Ikeda Joana M. P. , Cunha Haydée Andrade , Mota Bruno , Patzke Nina
Published: April 2024

The Guiana dolphin (Sotalia guianensis) is a common species along Central and South American coastal waters. Although much effort has been made to understand its behavioral ecology and evolution, very little is known about its brain. The use of ultra-high field MRI in anatomical descriptions of cetacean brains is a very promising approach that is still uncommon. In this study, we present for the first time a full anatomical description of the Guiana dolphin’s brain based on high-resolution ultra-high-field magnetic resonance imaging, providing an exceptional level of brain anatomical details, and enriching our understanding of the species. Brain structures were labeled and volumetric measurements were delineated for many distinguishable structures, including the gray matter and white matter of the cerebral cortex, amygdala, hippocampus, superior and inferior colliculi, thalamus, corpus callosum, ventricles, brainstem and cerebellum. Additionally, we provide the surface anatomy of the Guiana dolphin brain, including the labeling of main sulci and gyri as well as the calculation of its gyrification index. These neuroanatomical data, absent from the literature to date, will help disentangle the history behind cetacean brain evolution and consequently, mammalian evolution, representing a significant new source for future comparative studies.
Electron Scattering on $$^4$$He from Coupled-Cluster Theory
Authors: Sobczyk Joanna E.
Published: April 2024

We present a coupled-cluster calculation for the electron-$$^4$$

4

He scattering in the region of the quasi-elastic peak. We show the longitudinal and transverse responses separately, and discuss results within two distinct theoretical methods: the Lorentz integral transform and spectral functions. The comparison between them allows to investigate the role of final state interactions, two-body currents and relativistic effects.
Mapping functions for the PHQ-9 and GAD-7 to generate EQ-5D-3L for economic evaluation
Authors: Mukuria Clara , Franklin Matthew , Hinde Sebastian
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Generic preferenced-based measures, such as EQ-5D-3L, that are used to estimate quality adjusted life years (QALYs) for economic evaluation are not always available in clinical trials. Predicting EQ-5D-3L values from the commonly used Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9) and Generalised Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) would allow estimation of QALYs from such trials. The aim was to provide mapping functions to estimate EQ-5D-3L from PHQ-9 and GAD-7 to facilitate economic evaluation.

Methods

Data was drawn from four trials of patients with symptoms of depression testing collaborative care or computerised cognitive behavioural therapy. Patients completed PHQ-9, GAD-7, and EQ-5D-3L at different timepoints. Mapping was undertaken using adjusted limited dependent variable mixture models (ALDVMM), ordinary least squares (OLS), and Tobit models based on PHQ-9, GAD-7 scores or questions, and age to predict EQ-5D-3L utilities. Models were selected based on mean error (ME), mean absolute error (MAE), root mean squared error (RMSE), model goodness of fit, and visual inspection of the predictions.

Results

There were 5583 and 3942 observations for EQ-5D-3L combined with PHQ-9 and GAD-7 respectively. ALDVMM models had low ME ( ≤|0.0018|) and MAE ranging from 0.189 to 0.192, while RMSE was from 0.251 to 0.254 and had better predictions than OLS and Tobit models. ALDVMM models with four components based on PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scores are recommended for estimating EQ-5D-3L utilities.

Conclusions

Recommended mapping functions provide users with an approach to estimate EQ-5D-3L utilities for economic evaluation using PHQ-9, GAD-7, or both scores where they have been used together.
Infectious complications in pediatric patients undergoing CD19+CD22+ chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy for relapsed/refractory B-lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Wu Xiaochen , Cao Zhanmeng , Chen Zihan , Wang Yi , He Hailong , Xiao Peifang , Hu Shaoyan , Lu Jun , Li Benshang
Published: April 2024

Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy is effective in the treatment of relapsed/refractory acute B-lymphoblastic leukemia (R/R B-ALL); however, patients who receive CAR-T therapy are predisposed to infections, with considerable detrimental effects on long-term survival rates and the quality of life of patients. This study retrospectively analyzed infectious complications in 79 pediatric patients with R/R B-ALL treated with CAR-T cells at our institution. Overall, 53 patients developed 88 infections. Nine patients experienced nine infections during lymphodepletion chemotherapy, 35 experienced 41 infections during the early phase (days 0–+ 30 after infusion), and 29 experienced 38 infections during the late phase (day + 31–+ 90 after infusion). Pathogens were identified in 31 infections, including 23 bacteria, seven viruses, and one fungus. Four patients were admitted to the intensive care unit for infection and one died. In a univariate analysis, there were ten factors associated with infection, including tumor load, lymphodepleting chemotherapy, neutrophil deficiency and lymphocyte reduction, cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS), etc. In a multivariate analysis, CRS ≥ grade 3 was identified as a risk factor for infection (hazard ratio = 2.41, 95% confidence interval: 1.08–5.36, P = 0.031). Therefore, actively reducing the CRS grade may decrease the risk of infection and improve the long-term quality of life of these patients.
Fibroblast expression of neurotransmitter receptor HTR2A associates with inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis joint
Authors: Xiang Chunyan , Hong Soon-Min , Zhao Bingjiao , Pi Hui , Du Fang , Lu Xingyu , Tang Yuanjia , Shen Nan , Yang Chunxi , Wang Runci
Published: April 2024

The study of neuroimmune crosstalk and the involvement of neurotransmitters in inflammation and bone health has illustrated their significance in joint-related conditions. One important mode of cell-to-cell communication in the synovial fluid (SF) is through extracellular vesicles (EVs) carrying microRNAs (miRNAs). The role of neurotransmitter receptors in the pathogenesis of inflammatory joint diseases, and whether there are specific miRNAs regulating differentially expressed HTR2A, contributing to the inflammatory processes and bone metabolism is unclear. Expression of neurotransmitter receptors and their correlated inflammatory molecules were identified in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA) synovium from a scRNA-seq dataset. Immunohistochemistry staining of synovial tissue (ST) from RA and OA patients was performed for validation. Expression of miRNAs targeting HTR2A carried by SF EVs was screened in low- and high-grade inflammation RA from a public dataset and validated by qPCR. HTR2A reduction by target miRNAs was verified by miRNAs mimics transfection into RA fibroblasts. HTR2A was found to be highly expressed in fibroblasts derived from RA synovial tissue. Its expression showed a positive correlation with the degree of inflammation observed. 5 miRNAs targeting HTR2A were decreased in RA SF EVs compared to OA, three of which, miR-214-3p, miR-3120-5p and miR-615-3p, mainly derived from monocytes in the SF, were validated as regulators of HTR2A expression. The findings suggest that fibroblast HTR2A may play a contributory role in inflammation and the pathogenesis of RA. Additionally, targeting miRNAs that act upon HTR2A could present novel therapeutic strategies for alleviating inflammation in RA.
Organic soil greenhouse gas flux rates in hemiboreal old-growth Scots pine forests at different groundwater levels
Authors: Samariks Valters , Ķēniņa Laura , Īstenais Nauris , Ozoliņš Kristaps , Köster Kajar , Jansons Āris
Published: April 2024

Tree biomass and soils (especially organic soils) are significant carbon pools in forest ecosystems, therefore forest management practices, in order to ensure carbon storage in these pools and to mitigate climate change, are essential in reaching climate neutrality goals set by the European Union. Overall studies have focused on diverse aspects of forest carbon storage and greenhouse gas (GHG) fluxes from mineral soils, and recently also from organic soils. However, the information about old-growth forests and the long-term effects of drainage on GHG fluxes of organic soils is missing. Additionally, a large proportion of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) forests on organic soils in the hemiboreal region are drained to regulate groundwater level and to improve above-ground carbon storage. The study aims to assess the intra-annual dynamics of soil carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) fluxes in hemiboreal old-growth Scots pine stands on organic soils with diverse groundwater levels. Six old-growth stands (130–180 years old) were evaluated. In old-growth forests, the main source of soil CO2 emissions is ground vegetation and tree roots (autotrophic respiration), while heterotrophic respiration contributes to almost half (41%) of the total forest floor ecosystem (soil) respiration. The total forest floor respiration and soil heterotrophic respiration are mainly affected by soil temperature, with minor but statistically significant contribution of groundwater level (model R2 = 0.78 and R2 = 0.56, respectively). The CO2 fluxes have a significant, yet weak positive relationship with groundwater level (RtCO2 R2 = 0.06 RhCO2 R2 = 0.08). In contrast, total soil CH4 uptake or release depends primarily on groundwater level fluctuations, with a minor but significant contribution of soil temperature (model R2 = 0.67). CH4 flux has high variability between stands.
Dietary multi-strains Bacillus spp. enhanced growth performance, blood metabolites, digestive tissues histology, gene expression of Oreochromis niloticus, and resistance to Aspergillus flavus infection
Authors: Dighiesh Hagar Sedeek , Alharbi Nouf A. , Awlya Ohaad F. , Alhassani Walaa E. , Hassoubah Shahira A. , Albaqami Najah M. , Aljahdali Nesreen , Abd El-Aziz Yasmin M. , Eissa El-Sayed Hemdan , Munir Mohammad Bodrul , Sakr Salah El-Sayed
Published: April 2024

The present study tested the symbiotic effects of dietary multi-strain Bacillus probiotics (MSB) (Bacillus licheniformis, B. pumilus, and B. subtilis) in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) exposed to Aspergillus flavus infection. Furthermore, this study investigated water quality, growth performance, blood metabolites, histological morphology, immune regulatory genes, and resistance to A. flavus infection. For 70 days, fish (n = 240) were divided into four groups in triplicate: T0 (control group; MSB0), T1 (1 g/kg, MSB1), T2 (2 g/kg, MSB2), and T3 (3 g/kg, MSB3). The immune response was then assessed by challenging all fish groups with the A. flavus pathogen. The results showed that the rearing water quality, fish growth, and blood parameters, as well as total proteins, albumin, globulins, and amylase activity were significantly (P < 0.05) increased in all MSB-treated groups with the best results in MSB2 and MSB3 groups. Meanwhile, the activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), cholesterol, and glucose levels were significantly (P < 0.05) modulated, particularly at higher concentrations of the probiotic mixture (MSB3 group). Fish fed with various levels of MSB showed a maintained histological structure of the hepatopancreas, intestine, and spleen tissues. The mRNA expression of growth hormone (GH), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), insulin-like growth factor receptor-1 (IGF-1R), and interleukin-8 (IL-8) were increased in a dose-dependent manner due to MSB dietary inclusion (P < 0.05). Conversely, the mRNA expression of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) gene was significantly decreased in MSB groups compared to untreated group (P < 0.05). Surprisingly, supplemented groups in Bacillus spp. probiotics exhibited significant modulations in all computed parameters. MSB supplementation improved the pathogenic tolerance of tilapia after change with A. flavus. The integration of growth performance, biochemical, and transcriptomic results confirms that the dietary intervention of multi-strain Bacillus spp. is symbiotic and enhances the benefits for the maintenance of O. niloticus’ health, growth, and digestion. This is achieved by supporting growth genes, reducing inflammatory genes, and enhancing immune-antioxidant resistance to combat A. flavus infection.
A systematic literature review: Trends and current state of research on Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris tigris), 2010–2022
Authors: Maharjan Amir , Maraseni Tek , Allen Benjamin L. , Apan Armando
Published: April 2024

Tigers are one of the most recognized and charismatic predator on earth, yet their habitats have declined, their numbers are low, and substantial threats to their survival persist. Although, tiger conservation is high priority globally and tigers are generally considered well studied, there has been no comprehensive global assessment of tiger-related publications aimed at identifying trends, assessing their status and pinpointing research gaps. Utilizing PRISMA framework, we conducted an extensive search across multiple databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect, to gather research related to Bengal tigers. Following thorough screening, we selected and evaluated 491 articles published between 2010 and 2022 to address these issues. The results show that publications on Bengal tigers have steadily on rise, with an average of 40 papers/year within this period. We found that most research was focused on the theme of tiger biology. Information on leopards and dholes was also frequently associated with tiger research. The highest number of lead authors originated from India (n = 192), where most research was also conducted. Authors from USA (n = 111) and UK (n = 38) were the next most productive, even though tigers are not found in or anywhere near these countries. We demonstrate that there is only limited amount of transboundary research, and that relatively little tiger research is conducted in the forests beyond protected areas. Similarly, very important but the least studied themes ─Poaching, Population and Socio-culture dimension should be the priority of future research efforts. Additionally, research on tourism, economic aspects and technological inputs are essential for the sustainable conservation of Bengal tigers.
Biocomposites and bionanocomposites from poly(lactide) and cellulosic materials – a review
Authors: Nkuna C. N. , Mhike W. , Ojijo V. , Shongwe M. B. , John M. J.
Published: April 2024

Global environmental concerns have recently accelerated interest in the usage of biodegradable polymers to replace petroleum-based conventional plastics. Lactic acid-based polymers are some of the most promising and widely studied biobased materials, which are suitable for packaging and biomedical applications. This is mainly due to their appealing characteristics such as relatively good mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and multiple end-of-life options such as recyclability and biodegradability in industrial composting conditions. However, the use of lactic acid-based polymers in advanced applications is constrained by their inherent brittleness, poor melt strength, and relatively high cost. These disadvantages can be remedied by reinforcement with cellulose nanomaterials which can enhance their mechanical properties while maintaining their biodegradability. This review provides an overview of recent studies on the development of biodegradable lactic acid-based polymer composites and nanocomposites reinforced with cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs), cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) and microcrystalline cellulose (MCC). The different processing methods and chemical modification techniques utilised on modification and functionalisation of cellulosic nanomaterials for improving the properties of lactic acid-based polymer nanocomposites are also discussed.
Real-world evidence on treatment pattern, effectiveness, and safety of blinatumomab in Chinese patients with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Zhou Huifen , Wu Xiaoxia , Yang Zhen , Lu Shenqi , Zhang Xinhui , Yang Xiaofei , Chen Suning , Wu Depei , Miao Miao
Published: April 2024

Blinatumomab is efficacious in patients with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL), yet limited real-world data exists in this context. This retrospective study provided real-world data on the treatment pattern, effectiveness, and safety of blinatumomab in Chinese patients with newly diagnosed (ND) and relapsed/refractory (R/R) B-ALL. Patients with B-ALL who received at least one dose of blinatumomab in frontline or R/R settings between August 2021 and June 2023 were included. The primary outcome was the treatment pattern of blinatumomab. Key secondary outcomes included complete remission (CR)/CR with incomplete blood cell recovery (CRi) rate, minimal residual disease (MRD) negativity, median event-free survival (EFS), and safety. The study included 96 patients with B-ALL; 53 (55.2%) patients were in the ND group and 43 (44.8%) patients were in the R/R group. The median treatment duration was one cycle (range: 1–5). Most patients underwent chemotherapies, allo-HSCT, or experimental CAR-T following blinatumomab. The ND patients using blinatumomab induction therapy achieved 100% CR/CRi rate; 87.2% achieved MRD negativity within two cycles of blinatumomab. In R/R re-induction patients, the CR/CRi rate was 50%; MRD negativity rate was 64.2%. In R/R patients using blinatumomab for consolidation, MRD negativity rate was 90.9%. The median EFS was not reached in both ND and R/R patients; 1-year EFS rate was 90.8% (95% CI: 67%, 97%) and 55.1% (95% CI: 30%, 74%), respectively. Grade ≥ 3 adverse events were observed in 12.5% patients. Blinatumomab was found to be effective with a tolerable safety profile in real world setting.
Environmental regulations and firms’ integration in global markets: using a new environmental performance index
Authors: Paschoaleto Rafael Duarte Lisboa , Martínez-Zarzoso Inmaculada
Published: April 2024

This paper investigates how the environmental performance of firms impacts their participation in global value chains (GVC). The analysis is based on a dataset of 15,922 firms located in 32 European, Central Asian, Middle Eastern, and North African countries, with information on firm-level environmental practices provided by the recent Green Economy module of the World Bank Enterprise Surveys. We propose the Firm Environmental Performance Index (FEPI), a new index measuring firms’ adoption of environmental actions. The index is used in a two-part instrumental variable approach to estimate the impact of FEPI on both the probability and the intensity of GVC participation, while addressing reverse causality concerns. The results indicate that a one-standard deviation increase in the FEPI increases the probability of participation by 6.4 percentage points, a result consistently observed in all regions and sectors. The effects on the intensity of participation are mostly non-significant. However, a negative effect is observed in exceptional cases, namely for firms that are importers only, have low-technology practices, and are located in less developed regions. The results are robust to alternative definitions of GVC participation, inclusion of alternative instruments, and to partial violations of the exclusion restriction. All in all, they suggest that complying with environmental regulations could lead to higher integration in global markets, albeit with adverse effects in some particular cases.
The benefits of experimental breeding research genotypes for the genetic resources of spring durum wheat
Authors: Dvořáček V. , Jelínek M. , Jágr M. , Hermuth J.
Published: April 2024

Our study aimed to incorporate 60 newly acquired spring durum wheat genotypes into the Prague Gene Bank collection, focusing on 54 experimental breeding research genotypes and their technological quality contributions for conservation and future use. We analyzed a total of 11 field and 6 technological parameters of grain quality. Additionally, we identified the composition of high molecular weight glutenin subunits (HMW-GSs) in 13 accessions with contrasting technological characteristics. Two different extraction procedures were employed to detect HMW-GSs: one based on total protein extraction and the other on gliadin pre-extraction. The tested parameters exhibited a significant range of variability, with the relative standard deviation ranging from 2.1% for starch content to 96.7% for the gluten index. Additionally, six breeding research genotypes exhibited high technological grain quality comparable to the two modern durum wheat cultivars. Two accessions: M90-99–2 and IG 142076 showed above-average Zeleny sedimentation values, probably positively influenced by the presence of HMW-GSs A1: (2*). Genotypes PI 675012 and IG 142039 displayed the highest grain stability in technological parameters. Both extraction methods also detected the specific subunit B1: (6 + 8*) in the genotype IG 142039. Preserving these genotypes thus represents a substantial expansion of genetic resources in the genebank.
Characteristic Curves of Polar Fluids: (II) The Two-Center Lennard–Jones Plus Quadrupole Fluid
Authors: Renneis Hans , Stephan Simon
Published: April 2024

A systematic study of Brown’s characteristic curves of the two center Lennard–Jones plus point quadrupole (2CLJQ) fluid was carried out using molecular simulation and molecular-based equation of state (EOS) modeling. The model parameters (elongation and quadrupole moment) were varied systematically covering the range relevant for real fluid models. In total, 36 model fluids were studied. The independent predictions from the EOS and the computer experiments are found to be in very good agreement. Based on these results, the influence of the quadrupole moment on the fluid behavior at extreme conditions is elucidated. The quadrupole interactions are found to have a surprisingly minor influence on the extreme state fluid behavior. In particular, for the Amagat curve, the quadrupole moment is found to have an almost negligible influence in a wide temperature range. The results also provide new insights into the applicability of the corresponding states principle, which is compared to other molecular property features. Interestingly, for a wide range of quadrupole moments, the fluid behavior at extreme conditions is conform with the corresponding states principle—opposite to the influence of other molecular features. This is attributed to the symmetry of the quadrupole interactions. Moreover, an empirical correlation for the characteristic curves was developed as a global function of the model parameters and tested on real substance models. Additionally, the applicability of Batschinski’s linearity law for the Zeno curve was assessed using the results for the 2CLJQ fluid.
Preparing to “Live a Life of Possibilities”: Experiences of Healthcare Providers Readying Autistic Adolescents and Their Families for Independent Driving
Authors: Myers Rachel K. , Labows Christina , McDonald Catherine C. , Yerys Benjamin E. , Sartin Emma B. , Carey Meghan E. , Mollen Cynthia J. , Curry Allison E.
Published: April 2024

Autistic adolescents and their families may experience barriers to transportation, including independent driving, which is critical to supporting quality of life and engagement in social, educational, and employment opportunities. Healthcare providers may feel unprepared to provide guidance to autistic adolescents, although they are among the professionals families turn to for guidance. This study describes providers’ experiences supporting autistic adolescents and families in the decision to pursue licensure and identifies barriers experienced in providing support. We conducted interviews with 15 healthcare providers focused on how they support autistic adolescents and their families in navigating topics related to independence, driving, and transportation. Key themes identified included: importance of understanding adolescents’ perspectives and motivations, approaches to readying caregivers for children to pursue driving, and role of providers in fostering agreement between adolescents and caregivers. Results reflect healthcare providers as intermediaries between autistic adolescents and caregivers making the decision to pursue licensure and bring families to consensus. Our findings emphasize the importance of healthcare providers, in collaboration with community-based providers, in supporting autistic adolescents and their families considering licensure. Improving conversations between providers and families provides opportunity to better support quality of life among autistic adolescents and their caregivers navigating the transition to independence.