bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Causing Delays for Higher Education Students in Completing Final Undergraduate Assignments
Authors: Prihantini . , Rustini Tin , Rukmini Ai , Bawamenewi Arozatulo
Published: May 2024

Procrastination often occurs among students in higher education. Facts in higher education in 2018 from 27 students were found, and 22.22% of students had not attended a proposal seminar and had not completed a final assignment or thesis, 40.74% of students had attended a proposal seminar but had not completed a final assignment or thesis, and 37, 03% of students have attended proposal seminars and have completed their final assignments or theses. This is an urgent matter to research because there is a gap between theory, expectations, and reality in the field. The research aims to find out what factors cause procrastination, which causes students to be late in completing their thesis in higher education. The research method is descriptive qualitative. The subject and object are higher education, totaling 34 students. Data collection techniques using questionnaires, interviews, and direct observation of students. Analysis techniques by collecting data, reducing and drawing conclusions. Data is depicted in diagrams, and the results of interviews and observations are interpreted. As a result, it was found that students working on their thesis encountered many obstacles due to internal factors, namely self-control, self-efficacy, and motivation. In the process of completing the final assignment or thesis, students must learn to motivate themselves, control themselves, and develop high self-efficacy so that students can focus more on completing their thesis.
A Study On a New Generalization of $\delta$-Supplemented Modules
Authors: Önal Kır Emine
Published: May 2024

For any ring $S$ and an $S$-module $W$, a submodule $G$ of $W$ is termed \emph{co$_\delta$-coatomic} if the quotient module $W/G$ is $\delta$-coatomic. In this study, we introduce the term ($\oplus$-)\emph{co$_\delta$-coatomically $\delta$-supplemented module}, or shortly ($\oplus$-)\emph{co$_\delta$-$\delta$-supplemented module} to describe a module $W$ where each co$_\delta$-coatomic submodule has a $\delta$-supplement (that is a direct summand) in $W$. Furthermore, a module $W$ is identified as \emph{co$_\delta$-coatomically $\delta$-semiperfect}, or shortly \emph{co$_\delta$-$\delta$-semiperfect}, provided each $\delta$-coatomic quotient module of $W$ has a projective $\delta$-cover. It has been proved that over a $\delta$-semiperfect ring $S$, the module $_{S}S$ is $\oplus_{\delta}$-co-coatomically supplemented if and only if $_{S}S$ is co$_\delta$-$\delta$-semiperfect if and only if $_{S}S$ is $\oplus$-co$_\delta$-$\delta$-supplemented.
Role of invasive hemodynamics monitoring in sepsis intensive care
Authors: Kozlov I. A. , Ovezov A. M. , Rautbart S. A.
Published: May 2024

The objective was to study the effect of early planned use of transpulmonary thermodilution (TPTD) and therapeutic measures to stabilize blood circulation on the clinical outcome of sepsis.

Materials and methods. The cohort study involved 132 patients with abdominal sepsis with SOFA >7 and blood lactate >1.6 mmol/L. Septic shock was diagnosed in 56 % of patients. TPTD in the early periods of intensive care was began in 53.8 % of patients. Logistic regression and ROC-analysis were used to process the data.

Results. Early use of invasive monitoring (OR 2,3715, 95 % CI 1,1107–5,0635, p=0,026, AUC 0.655) and infusion volume >43 ml/kg per day (OR 1.0313, 95 % CI 1.0073–1.0558, p=0.01, AUC 0.677) were predictors of survival in patients with abdominal sepsis. The use of TPTD compared to patients of group II was accompanied by an increase in the daily infusion volume (53.7 [38.1–63.5] vs 38.2 [29.9–47.2], ml/kg per day, p = 0.0001), more frequent use of inotropic drugs (39.4 vs 16.4 %, p = 0.004), and higher level of the inotropic scale (0 [0–4.7] vs 0 [0–0], p = 0.01). There were no differences in the frequency of prescription (57.7 vs 65.5 %, p = 0.376) and dosages (0.2 [0.1–0.4] vs 0.3 [0.2–0.4] μg/kg/min, p = 0.554) of norepinephrine. Twenty-eight-day mortality in groups I and II was 31 and 50.8 % (p = 0.022), hospital mortality was 32.9 and 54.0 % (p = 0.014).

Conclusion. When assessed by SOFA > 7 points and lactatemia > 1.6 mmol/L, the onset of TPTD and infusion volume > 43 mL/kg/day increase the likelihood of survival of patients with abdominal sepsis, as a result, 28-day and hospital mortality decrease by 1.6 times. The use of invasive monitoring of central hemodynamics in this clinical situation is accompanied by an increase in the prescription of inotropes by 2.4 times with an unchanged intensity of norepinephrine use.
Alexander Sergeevich Puchkov’s activities as a member of the Russian Red Cross Society during the First World War
Authors: Rozhenetskij A. N. , Plavunov N. F. , Kadyshev V. A.
Published: May 2024

The article is devoted to the activities of Alexander Sergeevich Puchkov as part of the Russian Red Cross Society, which during the First World War was one of the largest public organizations that provided assistance to wounded soldiers and officers in the theater of military operations and in the rear. The Red Cross appointed those responsible for all military sanitary, medical evacuation and organizational measures in this area of military operations: a special officer, a chief officer. The events of the period 1914–1918, which formed the professional qualities of the organizing physician A.S., are described. Puchkova, approaches and principles to providing medical care to the wounded in case of mass injuries and injuries in the performance of official duties of the special representative of the Russian Red Cross Society under the 2nd Army of the Western Front.
Renal replacement therapy in critical ill patients
Authors: Aleksandrovskiy A. A. , Suryakhin V. S. , Salikov A. V. , Rautbart S. A. , Makhmudov D. M. , Geise A. V.
Published: May 2024

Acute kidney injury (AKI), especially when caused or accompanied by sepsis, is associated with prolonged hospitalization, progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD), financial burden on the health care system, and increases mortality in various entities. Extended renal replacement therapy (CRRT) is the predominant form of renal replacement therapy (RRT) in intensive care units (ICU) by providing hemodynamic stability in critically ill patients, more precise control of fluid balance, correction of acid-base imbalances, electrolyte disorders and achieving a stable level of osmolarity correction, including in multimorbid patients. This article examines the various aspects of CRRT in critically ill patients with severe AKI with high comorbidity, as well as in patients with sepsis and multiple organ failure. An analytical evaluation of the choice of CRRT over intermittent/intermittent hemodialysis (IHD) in selected clinical settings is being conducted. Filter/dialyzer life is assessed, including assessment of filtration fraction, use of anticoagulation options including regional citrate anticoagulation (RCA), dose of CRRT prescribed and delivered, vascular access management, general criteria, timing of initiation and cessation of CRRT, and initiation of renal replacement therapy for nonrenal indications. with AKI and/or sepsis.
Signaling Modifications Associated with Obesity and Dysbiosis and Their Impact on Metabolic Disorders
Authors: Armutcu Ferah , McCloskey Eugene
Published: May 2024

The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in various physiological functions such as the production of essential compounds like short-chain fatty acids and vitamins, as well as in controlling inflammation, immune response, and maintaining intestinal barrier integrity. The imbalance in microbial composition, termed dysbiosis, is closely associated with both the pathogenesis of obesity and the development of obesity-related metabolic disorders such as metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Dysbiosis leads to inflammation, harmful metabolite production, reduced microbial diversity, and elevated proinflammatory markers, all contributing to obesity progression. Molecular links between gut bacteria-derived metabolites and adipokine imbalance in obesity suggest that there may be adaptive changes and modifications in signaling pathways. Although the interaction between gut microbiota and host health involves complex signaling pathways that are not fully understood, various interventions targeting gut microbiota and dysbiosis have the potential to develop alternative treatments for obesity and T2D. This mini-review aims to explore these interactions further to advance research in managing these conditions.
Complexity by Design: a nature-inspired approach to generative product design
Authors: Alves Filipa
Published: May 2024

Biological morphogenesis can be analysed from different points of view: from the construction of form during embryonic development to the evolutionary origin and diversification of morphologies. In these contexts, we can identify key interaction networks governing the functional responses of cells (or organisms) to internal and external stimuli in a wide variety of signalling—sensing—response conditions. We have been focusing on the properties of these interaction networks as complex systems, analysing their temporal and spatial dynamics, parameter sensitivity, robustness to varying conditions, adaptability, potential for self-organisation and pattern formation, among others. Taking as a source of knowledge and inspiration the mechanisms responsible for the generation of form and function in nature, we are currently applying a complex systems approach to develop and test new algorithms for the generative design of artificial products and systems. Our approach draws directly on a set of biophysical mechanisms that can generate functional dynamics and organised form as emergent properties of the system (e.g. regulatory networks, reaction-diffusion, surface instabilities). In contrast to linear parametric approaches, these generative processes behave as complex systems, leading to non-linear responses to changes in parameter values. In this way, we can perform rich and unpredictable explorations of possible variants that are capable of meeting a predefined set of design requirements and constraints. In proof-of-principle applications we discuss how form and function are associated in these emergent morphologies, and highlight the essential creative role of the designer in the process.
Pleiotropic roles of LAMMER kinase, Lkh1 in stress responses and virulence of Cryptococcus neoformans
Authors: Kwon Sunhak , Choi Yeseul , Kim Eui-Seong , Lee Kyung-Tae , Bahn Yong-Sun , Jung Kwang-Woo
Published: May 2024

Dual-specificity LAMMER kinases are highly evolutionarily conserved in eukaryotes and play pivotal roles in diverse physiological processes, such as growth, differentiation, and stress responses. Although the functions of LAMMER kinase in fungal pathogens in pathogenicity and stress responses have been characterized, its role in Cryptococcus neoformans, a human fungal pathogen and a model yeast of basidiomycetes, remains elusive. In this study, we identified a LKH1 homologous gene and constructed a strain with a deleted LKH1 and a complemented strain. Similar to other fungi, the lkh1Δ mutant showed intrinsic growth defects. We observed that C. neoformans Lkh1 was involved in diverse stress responses, including oxidative stress and cell wall stress. Particularly, Lkh1 regulates DNA damage responses in Rad53-dependent and -independent manners. Furthermore, the absence of LKH1 reduced basidiospore formation. Our observations indicate that Lkh1 becomes hyperphosphorylated upon treatment with rapamycin, a TOR protein inhibitor. Notably, LKH1 deletion led to defects in melanin synthesis and capsule formation. Furthermore, we found that the deletion of LKH1 led to the avirulence of C. neoformans in a systemic cryptococcosis murine model. Taken together, Lkh1 is required for the stress response, sexual differentiation, and virulence of C. neoformans.
The long-term effects of the fenestration in patients with extracardiac Fontan circulation—a multicenter Korean cohort study based on national Fontan registry
Authors: Ko Hoon , Song Jinyoung , Chi Sang Ah , Lee Sang-Yun , Kim Soo-Jin , Lee Chang-Ha , Park Chun Soo , Choi Eun Seok , An Hyo Soon , Kang I. Seok , Yoon Ja Kyoung , Baek Jae-Suk , Lee Jae-Young , Lee Joowon , Huh June , Ahn Kyung-Jin , Jung Se Yong , Cha Seul Gi , Kim Yeo-Hyang , Lee Young-Seok
Published: May 2024

Introduction

The long-term effects of fenestration in patients with Fontan circulation remain unclear. We aim to evaluate the fenestration impact on early and late outcomes in patients with extracardiac Fontan (ECF) using a propensity score matching analysis.

Methods

We performed an extensive retrospective multicenter clinical data review of the Korean Fontan registry and included 1,233 patients with surgical ECF (779 fenestrated, 454 non-fenestrated). Demographics, baseline, and follow-up data were collected and comprehensively analyzed. Patients were divided into two groups according to the baseline presence or absence of surgical fenestration. Subsequently, patients were sub-divided according to the fenestration status at the last follow-up. Propensity-score matching was performed to account for collected data between the 2 groups using a multistep approach. The primary outcomes were survival and freedom from Fontan failure (FFF). We also looked at postoperative hemodynamics, cardiopulmonary exercise test results, oxygen saturations, and functional status.

Results

After propensity-score matching (454 matched pairs), there was no difference in survival or FFF between the 2 groups. However, ECF patients with baseline fenestration had significantly lower oxygen saturation (p = 0.001) and lower functional status (p < 0.001). Patients with fenestration had significantly longer bypass times, higher postoperative central venous pressure, higher postoperative left atrial pressure, and less prolonged pleural effusion in the early postoperative period. The propensity score matching according to the fenestration status at the last follow-up (148 matched pairs) showed that patients with a persistent fenestration had significantly lower oxygen saturation levels (p < 0.001). However there were no intergroup differences in the functional status, survival and FFF.

Conclusions

Our results showed no long-term benefits of the Fenestration in terms of survival and FFF. Patients with persistent fenestration showed oxygen desaturation but no difference in exercise intolerance was shown between the 2 groups.
Influence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease severity on carotid adventitial vasa vasorum
Authors: León-Mengíbar Josep , Sánchez Enric , Herrerías Ferrán , De La Fuente Mari Cruz , Santamaría Maite , Valdivielso José Manuel , Bermúdez-López Marcelino , Castro Eva , Pallarés Judit , Matias-Guiu Xavier , Vilardell Felip , Caixàs Assumpta , Bueno Marta , Martí Raquel , Lecube Albert
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects a quarter of the world’s population and encompasses a spectrum of liver conditions, from non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) to inflammation and fibrosis. In addition, NAFLD also links to extrahepatic conditions like diabetes or obesity. However, it remains unclear if NAFLD independently correlates with the onset and progression of atherosclerosis.

Material and methods

This cross-sectional study aimed to explore the relationship between NAFLD severity, assessed via liver biopsy, and early atherosclerosis using adventitial vasa vasorum (VV) density. It included 44 patients with obesity (33 with steatosis, 11 with NASH) undergoing bariatric surgery.

Results

Results revealed no significant differences in adventitial VV density between steatosis and NASH groups, neither in the mean values [0.759 ± 0.104 vs. 0.780 ± 0.043, P=0.702] nor left-right sides. Similarly, carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) did not vary between these groups. Additionally, no linear correlation existed between VV density and cIMT. Only gender showed an association with VV density.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that NASH severity doesn’t independently drive early atherosclerosis or affects cIMT. Gender might play a role in early atherosclerotic disease in NAFLD, impacting VV density and cIMT. This highlights the need to consider other risk factors when evaluating cardiovascular risk in NAFLD patients.
Current immunotherapeutic approaches to diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma
Authors: Lin Catherine , Smith Christian , Rutka James
Published: May 2024

Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is an aggressive brain tumour that occurs in the pons of the brainstem and accounts for over 80% of all brainstem gliomas. The median age at diagnosis is 6–7 years old, with less than 10% overall survival 2 years after diagnosis and less than 1% after 5 years. DIPGs are surgically inaccessible, and radiation therapy provides only transient benefit, with death ensuing from relentless local tumour infiltration. DIPGs are now the leading cause of brain tumour deaths in children, with a societal cancer burden in years of life lost (YLL) of more than 67 per individual, versus approximately 14 and 16 YLL for lung and breast cancer respectively. More than 95 clinical drug trials have been conducted on children with DIPGs, and all have failed to improve survival. No single or combination chemotherapeutic strategy has been successful to date because of our inability to identify targeted drugs for this disease and to deliver these drugs across an intact blood-brain barrier (BBB). Accordingly, there has been an increased focus on immunotherapy research in DIPG, with explorations into treatments such as chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cells, immune checkpoint blockades, cancer vaccines, and autologous cell transfer therapy. Here, we review the most recent advances in identifying genetic factors influencing the development of immunotherapy for DIPG. Additionally, we explore emerging technologies such as Magnetic Resonance-guided Focused Ultrasound (MRgFUS) in potential combinatorial approaches to treat DIPG.
Exploring the genetic causal association of TIMP3 on CKD and kidney function: a two-sample mendelian randomization
Authors: Chen Huang , Chen Lixun , Chen Yufeng , Guo Qinyu , Lin Shirong
Published: May 2024

Background: Numerous studies have demonstrated a positive association between the level of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 3 (TIMP3) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Nevertheless, whether those associations reflect causal links still to be determined. This study intended to research the causal relationship of TIMP3 with CKD and markers of kidney function, such as creatinine‐based estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFRcrea), cystatin C‐based estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFRcys), eGFRcrea in diabetics (eGFRcrea (DM)) and eGFRcrea in non diabetics (eGFRcrea (No DM)).

Methods: In this study, we investigated the causal relationships between TIMP3 and CKD and kidney function markers using a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) technique. We used summary level datasets for TIMP3 and CKD from genome-wide association studies that we were able to access through the study by Suhre K and Pattaro C.

Results: We found that TIMP3 had a significant positive causal effect on the risk of CKD (Inverse variance weighted (IVW):odds ratio (OR):0.962, 95% confidence interval (CI): (0.936-0.988),P:0.005). However TIMP3 levels had no significant effect on risk of eGFRcys (PIVW: 0.114),eGFRcrea (PIVW:0.333). After grouping patients based on their diabetes status, we found that genetically higher levels of TIMP3 had a significant impact on eGFRcrea in participants without diabetes (OR:1.003,95%CI (1.001-1.006),P IVW:0.007), but not in participants with diabetes (PIVW = 0.057). Heterogeneity and pleiotropy analyses were carried out to verify the accuracy of the MR findings. Their findings were all not statistically significant.

Conclusion: Our study suggests that TIMP3 may be causally associated with CKD and eGFRcrea (No DM)in people of European ancestry. Strategies aimed to increase TIMP3 levels may provide new ways to delay the deterioration of renal function.
Clinical biomarkers for thyroid immune-related adverse events in patients with stage III and IV gastrointestinal tumors
Authors: Xing Na , Liu Jing , Hou Lin , Zhao Yue , Ma Hongfang , Wang Fujun , Guo Zhanjun
Published: May 2024

Background

Thyroid immune-related adverse events (irAEs) associated with immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) treatment appear to correlate with a better prognosis. We aimed to investigate clinical biomarkers associated with thyroid irAEs.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed data from 129 patients receiving programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) inhibitors for stage III and IV gastrointestinal tumors. Patients were divided into two groups: “thyroid irAEs” group and “no thyroid irAEs” group. We compared continuous variables using Mann–Whitney U and Kruskal–Wallis tests and categorical variables using Pearson’s chi–square test. Survival curves were generated using the Kaplan–Meier method, and associations between clinical features and thyroid irAEs were assessed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression models. Associations for thyroid irAEs and outcomes [progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS)] of the patients were performed with a Cox proportional hazard model.

Results

A total of 129 patients, including 66 gastric cancer, 30 esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, and 33 hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), were involved in this analysis with 47 cases of thyroid irAEs occurrence. The Cox proportional hazard model analysis confirmed the extended PFS [hazard rate (HR) = 0.447, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.215 to 0.931, p = 0.031] and OS (HR = 0.424, 95% CI: 0.201 to 0.893, p = 0.024) for thyroid irAEs group when compared with those of the no thyroid irAEs group. Association between thyroid irAEs and clinical characteristics at baseline was analyzed subsequently by univariate analysis. Higher body mass index (p = 0.005), increased eosinophil count (p = 0.014), increased lactate dehydrogenase (p = 0.008), higher baseline thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) (p = 0.001), HCC (p = 0.001) and increased adenosine deaminase (ADA) (p = 0.001) were linked with thyroid irAEs occurrence. The multivariable logistic regression model indicated that ADA [odds rate (OR) = 4.756, 95% CI: 1.147 to 19.729, p = 0.032] was independently associated with thyroid irAEs occurrence.

Conclusions

Increased baseline level of ADA was associated with thyroid irAEs occurrence in patients with advanced gastrointestinal tumors who received ICI treatment. In the case of abnormal ADA, attention should be paid to the risk of thyroid irAEs.
Lower thermal tolerance restricts vertical distributions for juvenile albacore tuna (Thunnus alalunga) in the northern limit of their habitats
Authors: Matsubara Naoto , Aoki Yoshinori , Aoki Akiko , Kiyofuji Hidetada
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Evaluating the thermal tolerance of commercially valuable tuna species and their behavioral responses to the limits of this tolerance is essential for evaluating the effects of changes in water temperature driven by global climate change on their distribution and fisheries. We aimed to identify the lower thermal tolerance (Tmin) of juvenile albacore tuna (ALB) and evaluate their behavioral response to Tmin by focusing on wild behavior in the northern distributional limit. Additionally, we investigated how vertical behavior is linked to the vulnerability of ALB to Japanese longline (LL) and pole-and-line (PL) fisheries.

Methods

We explored the swimming depths and water temperatures of four previously reported tagged individuals migrating from subtropical to temperate areas and identified Tmin and its depths in the water column as unfavorable depths (DTmin). To investigate the spatial patterns of ALB fishery grounds for LL and PL fisheries, we analyzed hotspots specific to each type of gear using the historical Japanese fishery logbook for both fisheries.

Results

Comparisons of the fishery grounds between the two fisheries revealed that PL hotspots appeared in the northern areas, while LL hotspots were in the southern regions. We also discovered that the vertical distribution of ALB became shallow in high-latitude areas, which were strongly affected by DTmin shallowing at high latitudes.

Discussion

These results provide evidence of a behavioral response among juvenile ALB that avoids Tmin by remaining at the surface. We discuss the implications of the results for latitudinal changes in the vulnerability of ALB to fisheries in terms of the overlapping depth between ALB vertical habitats and the gear-setting depth for each fishery.
Factors influencing survival and mortality among adult Aboriginal Australians with bronchiectasis—A 10-year retrospective study
Authors: Heraganahally Subash S. , Gibbs Claire , Ravichandran Shiidheshwar J. , Erdenebayar Davaadorj , Abeyaratne Asanga , Howarth Timothy
Published: May 2024

Background

The prevalence of bronchiectasis among adult Aboriginal Australians is higher than that of non-Aboriginal Australians. However, despite evidence to suggest higher prevalence of bronchiectasis among Aboriginal people in Australia, there is sparce evidence in the literature assessing clinical parameters that may predict survival or mortality in this population.

Methods

Aboriginal Australians residing in the Top End Health Service region of the Northern Territory of Australia aged >18 years with chest computed tomography (CT) confirmed bronchiectasis between 2011 and 2020 were included. Demographics, body mass index (BMI), medical co-morbidities, lung function data, sputum microbiology, chest CT scan results, hospital admissions restricted to respiratory conditions and all-cause mortality were assessed.

Results

A total of 459 patients were included, of whom 146 were recorded deceased (median age at death 59 years). Among the deceased cohort, patients were older (median age 52 vs. 45 years, p = 0.023), had a higher prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (91 vs. 79%, p = 0.126), lower lung function parameters (median percentage predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 s 29 vs. 40%, p = 0.149), a significantly greater proportion cultured non-Aspergillus fungi (65 vs. 46%, p = 0.007) and pseudomonas (46 vs. 28%, p = 0.007) on sputum microbiology and demonstrated bilateral involvement on radiology. In multivariate models advancing age, prior pseudomonas culture and Intensive care unit (ICU) visits were associated with increased odds of mortality. Higher BMI, better lung function on spirometry, prior positive sputum microbiology for Haemophilus and use of inhaled long-acting beta antagonist/muscarinic agents may have a favourable effect.

Conclusion

The results of this study may be of use to stratify high risk adult Aboriginal patients with bronchiectasis and to develop strategies to prevent future mortality.
The different responses of AOA and AOB communities to irrigation systems in the semi-arid region of Northeast China
Authors: Qiang Ruowen , Wang Meng , Li Qian , Li Yingjie , Li Cuilan , Zhang Jinjing , Liu Hang
Published: May 2024

Ammonia oxidation is the rate-limiting step in nitrification and the key step in the nitrogen (N) cycle. Most soil nutrients and biological indicators are extremely sensitive to irrigation systems, from the perspective of improving soil fertility and soil ecological environment, the evaluation of different irrigation systems and suitability of selection, promote crop production and soil quality, study the influence of the soil microenvironment contribute to accurate evaluation of irrigation farmland soil health. Based on the amoA gene, the abundance and community diversity of ammonia-oxidizing archaea (AOA) and ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) and their responses to soil physicochemical factors and enzyme activities were studied in semi-arid areas of Northeast China. The study consisted of three irrigation systems: flood irrigation (FP), shallow buried drip irrigation (DI), and mulched drip irrigation (MF). The results showed that DI and MF significantly increased the contents of alkaline hydrolyzed nitrogen (AN), nitrate nitrogen (NO3–-N), soil moisture, and the activities of ammonia monooxygenase (AMO) and hydroxylamine oxidase (HAO). Compared with FP, DI significantly increased the abundance of soil AOA and AOB, while MF significantly increased the abundance of soil AOB. Irrigation systems significantly affected the community composition of ammonia-oxidizing microorganisms (AOM). Also, AN and soil moisture had the greatest influence on the community composition of AOA and AOB, respectively. The AOB community had better stability and stress resistance. Moreover, the symbiotic network of AOB in the three irrigation systems was more complex than that of AOA. Compared with FP, the AOA community under treatment DI had higher complexity and stability, maintaining the versatility and sustainability of the ecosystem, while the AOB community under treatment MF had higher transfer efficiency in terms of matter and energy. In conclusion, DI and MF were more conducive to the propagation of soil AOM in the semi-arid area of Northeast China, which can provide a scientific basis for rational irrigation and N regulation from the perspective of microbiology.
Transcriptome analysis highlights the influence of temperature on hydrolase and traps in nematode-trapping fungi
Authors: Jia Hanqi , Xia Rui , Zhang Ruizhi , Liang Guanjun , Zhuang Yuting , Zhou Yantao , Li Danlei , Wang Feng
Published: May 2024

Pine wilt disease caused by Bursaphelenchus xylophilus poses a serious threat to the economic and ecological value of forestry. Nematode trapping fungi trap and kill nematodes using specialized trapping devices, which are highly efficient and non-toxic to the environment, and are very promising for use as biological control agents. In this study, we isolated several nematode-trapping fungi from various regions and screened three for their high nematocidal efficiency. However, the effectiveness of these fungi as nematicides is notably influenced by temperature and exhibits different morphologies in response to temperature fluctuations, which are categorized as “NA,” “thin,” “dense,” and “sparse.” The trend of trap formation with temperature was consistent with the trend of nematocidal efficiency with temperature. Both of which initially increased and then decreased with increasing temperature. Among them, Arthrobotrys cladodes exhibited the highest level of nematocidal activity and trap formation among the tested species. Transcriptome data were collected from A. cladodes with various trap morphologies. Hydrolase activity was significantly enriched according to GO and KEGG enrichment analyses. Eight genes related to hydrolases were found to be consistent with the trend of trap morphology with temperature. Weighted gene co-expression analysis and the Cytoscape network revealed that these 8 genes are associated with either mitosis or autophagy. This suggests that they contribute to the formation of “dense” structures in nematode-trapping fungi. One of these genes is the serine protein hydrolase gene involved in autophagy. This study reveals a potentially critical role for hydrolases in trap formation and nematocidal efficiency. And presents a model where temperature affects trap formation and nematocidal efficiency by influencing the serine protease prb1 involved in the autophagy process.
Development, feeding, and sex shape the relative quantity of the nutritional obligatory symbiont Wolbachia in bed bugs
Authors: Poulain Marius , Rosinski Elodie , Henri Hélène , Balmand Séverine , Delignette-Muller Marie-Laure , Heddi Abdelaziz , Lasseur Romain , Vavre Fabrice , Zaidman-Rémy Anna , Kremer Natacha
Published: May 2024

The common bed bug, Cimex lectularius, is a hemipteran insect that feeds only on blood, and whose bites cause public health issues. Due to globalization and resistance to insecticides, this pest has undergone a significant and global resurgence in recent decades. Blood is an unbalanced diet, lacking notably sufficient B vitamins. Like all strict hematophagous arthropods, bed bugs host a nutritional symbiont supplying B vitamins. In C. lectularius, this nutritional symbiont is the intracellular bacterium Wolbachia (wCle). It is located in specific symbiotic organs, the bacteriomes, as well as in ovaries. Experimental depletion of wCle has been shown to result in longer nymphal development and lower fecundity. These phenotypes were rescued by B vitamin supplementation. Understanding the interaction between wCle and the bed bug may help to develop new pest control methods targeting the disruption of this symbiotic interaction. The objective of this work was thus to quantify accurately the density of wCle over the life cycle of the host and to describe potential associated morphological changes in the bacteriome. We also sought to determine the impact of sex, feeding status, and aging on the bacterial population dynamics. We showed that the relative quantity of wCle continuously increases during bed bug development, while the relative size of the bacteriome remains stable. We also showed that adult females harbor more wCle than males and that wCle relative quantity decreases slightly in adults with age, except in weekly-fed males. These results are discussed in the context of bed bug ecology and will help to define critical points of the symbiotic interaction during the bed bug life cycle.
The emergence of enhanced intelligence in a brain-inspired cognitive architecture
Authors: Schneider Howard
Published: May 2024

The Causal Cognitive Architecture is a brain-inspired cognitive architecture developed from the hypothesis that the navigation circuits in the ancestors of mammals duplicated to eventually form the neocortex. Thus, millions of neocortical minicolumns are functionally modeled in the architecture as millions of “navigation maps.” An investigation of a cognitive architecture based on these navigation maps has previously shown that modest changes in the architecture allow the ready emergence of human cognitive abilities such as grounded, full causal decision-making, full analogical reasoning, and near-full compositional language abilities. In this study, additional biologically plausible modest changes to the architecture are considered and show the emergence of super-human planning abilities. The architecture should be considered as a viable alternative pathway toward the development of more advanced artificial intelligence, as well as to give insight into the emergence of natural human intelligence.
Impact of sequential (first- to third-generation) EGFR-TKI treatment on corrected QT interval in NSCLC patients
Authors: Gan Tian , Chen Jindong , Wang Hao , Shang Conghui , Xi Siqi , Fan Zixu , He Ben , Zhang Min , Zhao Liang
Published: May 2024

Objective

To evaluate the impact of sequential (first- to third-generation) epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI) treatment on top-corrected QT interval (top-QTc) in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of NSCLC patients undergoing sequential EGFR-TKI treatment at Shanghai Chest Hospital between October 2016 and August 2021. The heart rate (HR), top-QT interval, and top-QTc of their ECGs were extracted from the institutional database and analyzed. Logistic regression was performed to identify predictors for top-QTc prolongation.

Results

Overall, 228 patients were enrolled. Compared with baseline (median, 368 ms, same below), both first-generation (376 ms vs. 368 ms, p < 0.001) and sequential third-generation EGFR-TKIs (376 ms vs. 368 ms, p = 0.002) prolonged top-QT interval to a similar extent (p = 0.635). Top-QTc (438 ms vs. 423 ms, p < 0.001) and HR (81 bpm vs.79 bpm, p = 0.008) increased after first-generation EGFR-TKI treatment. Further top-QTc prolongation (453 ms vs. 438 ms, p < 0.001) and HR increase (88 bpm vs. 81 bpm, p < 0.001) occurred after treatment advanced. Notably, as HR elevated during treatment, top-QT interval paradoxically increased rather than decreased, and the top-QTc increased rather than slightly fluctuated. Moreover, such phenomena were more significant after treatment advanced. After adjusting for confounding factors, pericardial effusion and lower serum potassium levels were independent predictors of additional QTc prolongation during sequential third-generation EGFR-TKI treatment.

Conclusion

First-generation EGFR-TKI could prolong top-QTc, and sequential third-generation EGFR-TKI induced further prolongation. Top-QT interval paradoxically increased and top-QTc significantly increased as HR elevated, which was more significant after sequential EGFR-TKI treatment. Pericardial effusion and lower serum potassium levels were independent predictors of additional QTc prolongation after sequential EGFR-TKI treatment.
The comparison of contrast-enhanced ultrasound and gadoxetate disodium-enhanced MRI LI-RADS for nodules ≤2 cm in patients at high risk for HCC: a prospective study
Authors: Qin Zhengyi , Zhou Yan , Zhang Xiang , Ding Jianmin , Zhou Hongyu , Wang Yandong , Zhao Lin , Chen Chen , Jing Xiang
Published: May 2024

Objectives

To investigate the consistency of LI-RADS of CEUS and EOB-MRI in the categorization of liver nodules ≤2cm in patients at high risk for HCC.

Methods

Patients at high risk for HCC with nodules ≤2cm who underwent CEUS and EOB-MRI in our hospital were prospectively enrolled. The CEUS images and EOB-MRI imaging of each liver nodule were observed to evaluate inter-observer consistency and category according to CEUS LI-RADS V2017 and CT/MRI LI-RADS V2017 criteria double blinded. Pathology and/or follow-up were used as reference standard.

Results

A total of 127 nodules in 119 patients met the inclusion criteria. The inter-observer agreement was good on CEUS and EOB-MRI LI-RADS (kappa = 0.76, 0.76 p < 0.001). The inter-modality agreement was fair (kappa=0.21, p < 0.001). There was no statistical difference in PPV and specificity between CEUS and EOB-MRI LR-5 for HCC, while the difference in AUC was statistically significant. We used new criteria (CEUS LR-5 and EOB-MRI LR-4/5 or CEUS LR-4/5 and EOB-MRI LR-5) to diagnose HCC. The sensitivity, specificity, and AUC of this criteria was 63.4%, 95.6%, and 0.80.

Conclusions

CEUS and EOB-MRI showed fair inter-modality agreement in LI-RADS categorization of nodules ≤2 cm. The inter-observer agreement of CEUS and EOB-MRI LI-RADS were substantial. CEUS and EOB-MRI LR-5 have equally good positive predictive value and specificity for HCC ≤ 2cm, and combining these two modalities may better diagnose HCC ≤ 2 cm.

Clinical Trial Registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov/, identifier NCT04212286.
Case report: Treatment with Phesgo® in a patient receiving hemodialysis
Authors: Pulido Catarina , Albuquerque Joana , Correia Jorge , Passos-Coelho José Luís
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Patients with metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer have multiple therapeutic options. However, most are not studied in the renal replacement therapy (RRT) setting.

Case report

We report the use of Phesgo® (subcutaneous fixed-dose combination of trastuzumab and pertuzumab) combined with exemestane as a first-line treatment of metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer in a hemodialysis patient with multiple comorbidities. Partial response was attained, with disease progression after 8 months without evidence of significant toxicity.

Discussions

This case report is, to our knowledge, the first published case documenting the use of Phesgo® in a hemodialysis patient. No new safety signs were seen, and activity was documented, adding support to the use of this drug combination in such a patient population.
The impact of time between surgery and adjuvant chemoradiotherapy in advanced oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Mrosk Friedrich , Absah Majd , Richter Maximilian , Sprünken Erin , Doll Christian , Kreutzer Kilian , Rendenbach Carsten , Beck Marcus , Klinghammer Konrad , Heiland Max , Koerdt Steffen
Published: May 2024

Objective

In advanced oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), adjuvant therapy (AT) is an important part of the treatment to ensure extended locoregional control after primary surgical resection. The impact of the time interval between surgery and AT on the oncological prognosis remains unclear, particularly in high-risk constellations. The aim of this study is to categorize treatment delays and to determine their impact on the oncological prognosis within the context of the histopathological risk parameters of patients with advanced OSCC.

Methods

In this single-institutional retrospective cohort study, all patients treated for OSCC between 2016 and 2021 and who received postoperative chemoradiation (POCRT) were included. Patients were divided into two groups: Group I: ≤ 6 weeks between surgery and POCRT; and Group II: > 6 weeks between surgery and POCRT.

Results

Overall, 202 patients were included (Group I: 156 (77.2%) vs. Group II: 46 (22.8%)). There were no statistically significant differences in epidemiological aspects and histopathological risk factors between the two groups. The maximum time to initiation of POCRT was 11 weeks. Delayed POCRT initiation had no statistically significant influence on the 5-year OS (61.6% vs. 57.3%, p = 0.89), locoregional control rate (38.6% vs. 43.3%, p = 0.57), and RFS (32.3% vs. 30.4%, p = 0.21). On multivariate analysis, extracapsular spread (HR: 2.21, 95% CI: 1.21 – 4.04, p = 0.01) and incomplete surgical resection (HR: 2.01, 95% CI: 1.10 – 3.69, p = 0.02) were significantly correlated with OS. For RFS, ECS (HR: 1.82, 95% CI: 1.15 – 2.86, p = 0.01), incomplete resection (HR: 1.67, 95% CI: 1.04 – 2.71, p = 0.04), and vascular infiltration of the tumor (V-stage; HR: 2.15, 95% CI: 1.08 – 4.27, p = 0.03) were significant risk predictors.

Conclusion

Delays in POCRT initiation up to 11 weeks after surgical resection for advanced OSCC were not statistically significantly associated with impaired survival. In cases of prolonged surgical treatment due to management of complications, a small delay in AT beyond the recommended time limit may be justified and AT should still be pursued.
The long-term negative impact of childhood stroke on language
Authors: Heimgärtner Magdalena , Gschaidmeier Alisa , Schnaufer Lukas , Staudt Martin , Wilke Marko , Lidzba Karen
Published: May 2024

Objectives

This study aims to investigate the long-term language outcome in children with unilateral childhood stroke in comparison to those with perinatal strokes and typically developing individuals and to explore the impact of lesion-specific modifiers.

Methods

We examined nine patients with childhood stroke, acquired between 0;2 and 16;1 years (CHILD; 3 female, median = 13.5 years, 6 left-sided), 23 patients with perinatal strokes (PERI; 11 female, median = 12.5 years, 16 left-sided), and 33 age-matched typically developing individuals (CONTROL; 15 female, median = 12.33 years). The language outcome was assessed using age-appropriate tasks of the Potsdam Illinois Test of Psycholinguistic Abilities (P-ITPA) or the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test (PPVT). For group comparisons, study-specific language z-scores were calculated. Non-verbal intelligence was assessed using the Test of Non-verbal Intelligence (TONI-4), language lateralization with functional MRI, and lesion size with MRI-based volumetry.

Results

All four patients with childhood stroke who initially presented with aphasic symptoms recovered from aphasia. Patients with childhood stroke showed significantly lower language scores than those in the control group, but their scores were similar to those of the patients with perinatal stroke, after adjusting for general intelligence (ANCOVA, language z-score CHILD = −0.30, PERI = −0.38, CONTROL = 0.42). Among the patients with childhood stroke, none of the possible modifying factors, including lesion side, correlated significantly with the language outcome.

Conclusion

Childhood stroke, regardless of the affected hemisphere, can lead to chronic language deficits, even though affected children show a “full recovery.” The rehabilitation of children and adolescents with childhood stroke should address language abilities, even after the usually quick resolution of clear aphasic symptoms.
Inadequate weight gain and factors influencing it among preterm neonates in neonatal intensive care units in the Amhara region, Ethiopia, in 2022
Authors: Semanew Yaregal , Tesfaye Eleny , Tesgera Debrework
Published: May 2024

Background

Adequate weight gain is crucial for the health and development of preterm neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). Understanding the factors influencing weight gain in this vulnerable population is essential for improving outcomes. This study aimed to assess the weight gain status and associated factors among preterm neonates admitted to NICUs in specialized hospitals in the Amhara region of Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study design involving 363 preterm neonates admitted to NICUs in specialized hospitals within the Amhara region was used. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and the Kobo Tool Box. Daily weight measurements were recorded for three consecutive days. Descriptive statistics, logistic regression analysis, and graphical presentations were utilized for data analysis and presentation.

Results

The study revealed that a significant proportion (80.8%) of preterm neonates experienced poor weight gain during their NICU stay. The factors significantly associated with poor weight gain were older maternal age, delayed initiation of enteral feeding, lack of kangaroo mother care (KMC), and inadequate antenatal care visits.

Conclusion

Addressing the identified factors, such as providing adequate support during the antenatal period, promoting a timely initiation of enteral feeding, and encouraging KMC practices, is crucial for improving weight gain outcomes in preterm neonates. The findings highlight the importance of a comprehensive approach to neonatal care targeting both maternal and neonatal factors. Policymakers and healthcare providers should prioritize interventions aimed at optimizing weight gain in preterm neonates to improve these neonates’ overall well-being and long-term outcomes.
Spatial heterogeneity in the photobiology of phototrophs—questions and methods
Authors: Kaňa Radek , Eichner Meri , Gall Andrew , Ilioaia Cristian
Published: May 2024

Photosynthesis which harvests energy from the Sun, whether it occurs in prokaryotes or eukaryotes, is a key biological process that ultimately nourishes the biosphere. The molecular efficiencies of the photo-physical and physiological processes are intricately tied not only to the photo-physics/enzymatic kinetics of the proteins involved, but also to their spatial co-localization in membrane microdomains or in cell compartments (e.g., in membrane-less organelles). Similar heterogeneity in function can be found also between cells in isogenic cell cultures (phenotypic heterogeneity) or in filaments of phototrophic cells (e.g., heterocysts/vegetative cells in nitrogen fixing cyanobacteria). This review paper delves into the connection between the spatial (co)-localization of biomolecules (lipids, RNA, DNA, proteins, membranes compartments) and their functionality in situ. We highlight recent methodological advances in the field (e.g., super-resolution microscopy, Raman micro-spectroscopy, nanoSIMS, microsensors) and showcase applications of these methods in understanding heterogeneity on single-cell and on population-scale level. This paper thus aims to highlight the avenues that will help to unravel the molecular, cellular and ecological mechanisms in photobiology by combining up-to-date microscopy techniques with more traditional functional approaches.