bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Horizon scanning for invasive arthropods with the potential to threaten crop production industry in South Africa
Authors: Tshikhudo Phumudzo Patrick , Simandla Aviwe , Nnzeru Livhuwani R , Gebeyehu Solomon , Mokwele Julie , Rambauli Maanda , Makhado Rudzani Albert , Munyai Thinandavha C
Published: October 2023

Invasive alien pests have caused a considerable negative impact on socio-economic growth and development in the South African agricultural sector. An effective strategy called horizon scanning has recently gained momentum in assessing the preparedness level for prospective changes or threats by invasive alien pests. The study was conducted to identify and prioritize pests already occurring elsewhere in Africa that are likely to be introduced in the Republic of South Africa as well as to develop pest risk analysis reports, pest risk management measures, surveillance procedures, regulatory framework and pest response strategies. The current study revealed that out of 97 known alien invasive arthropods, only 22 invasive pests are considered to have the highest potential risk of being introduced to South Africa. Among these, 8 were Hemiptera, 6 Coleoptera, 5 Diptera, 2 Lepidoptera, one Thysanoptera. Most arthropods (80%) were likely to arrive as contaminants on plant commodities. The pests with the highest scores were Maconellicoccus hirsutus, and Thrips palmi. Both M. hirsutus, and T. palmi have higher potential for entering and establishing in the country as they are important pests of plants. Zygodacus cucurbitae, Bactrocera latifrons, B. zonata, Paracocus marginatus, and Pectinophora gossypiella were the second most economic pests in terms of likelihood of entry and establishment in the country. Complete pest risk assessments and surveillance for the presence or introduction of pests in the country were the most frequently recommended phytosanitary measures against highly prioritised pests with the highest scores. Plants and plant products are the primary pathways for these prioritised pests.
Prevalence of spondyloarthritis in inflammatory bowel disease according ASAS and ultrassonography and its correlation with plasma calprotectin.
Authors: Huber Míriam Kuster , Valim Valeria , Serrano Erica Vieira , Mendonça Jose Alexandre , Lourenço Rafael Burgomeister , Santo Thaisa Moraes Ribeiro Espirito , Nordal Hilde , Bissoli Maria de Fátima , Gavi Maria Bernadete
Published: October 2023

Background: Enteropathic spondyloarthritis is underdiagnosed and inflammatory biomarkers and ultrasonography (US) could be useful for screening inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients. The objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of spondyloarthritis (SpA) in IBD patients, according to the Assessment of SpondyloArthritis International Society (ASAS) criteria and the correlation of results of US of entheses and joints with plasma calprotectin levels.
Methods: This was an observational cross-sectional study. Patients from the IBD outpatient clinic of a reference center were evaluated according to ASAS criteria classification, results of US of entheses and joints, and inflammatory biomarker measurements (erythrocyte sedimentation rates, C-reactive protein levels, fecal and plasma calprotectin levels). A p value lower than 0.05 was considered significant.
Results: A total of 30.5% of the studied sample (n= 118) of patients with IBD presented at least one inflammatory musculoskeletal manifestation. The overall prevalence of enteropathic SpA was 13.55%, with 10.16% axial SpA and 4.23% peripheral SpA according to the ASAS criteria. A total of 42.1% of patients had an MASEI score greater than 18, 35.2% had synovitis, and 14.7% had tenosynovitis on US, increasing the frequency of diagnosis of enteropathic SpA to 22.8%. Plasma calprotectin levels were similar to those in healthy controls, and correlated only with the fecal calprotectin level (p 0.041).
Conclusions: A total of 13.5% of patients met the criteria in accordance with the ASAS criteria for enteropathic SpA, which increased to 22.8% with the addition of US. The prevalence of enthesitis, synovitis and tenosynovitis by US of symptomatic joints and entheses were 42%, 35% and 14,7% respectively. Plasma calprotectin was correlated with fecal calprotectin but not with inflammatory biomarkers or US or ASAS criteria.
Serum copper is associated with the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases: Evidence from NHANES 2011-2016
Authors: Liu Xiao , Yu Peng , Qi Xinrui , Fu Wanying , Fang Changchang , Ling Jitao , Niu Liyan , Liu Menglu , Zhao Yujie , Wu Yuting , Zhao Huilei , Li Xiaozhong
Published: October 2023

Background
Copper (Cu) is one of the minerals that has a key role in human health and cell metabolism. Recent reports show Cu homeostasis and Cu-induced cell death play crucial role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, the epidemiology evidence association between serum Cu and risk of cardiovascular disease is limited.
Objective
This national cross-sectional study aimed to assess the association between serum Cu and the risk of CVD.
Methods
Dataset were from the Nation Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011–2016. Weighted logistic regression model and dose-response curve were applied.
Results
A total of 5,154 participants were included, representing 21,995,1371 Americans adult. The average level of serum Cu was 18.6 µmol/L, and the overall prevalence of CVD was 7.4%. Serum Cu values in female, middle-aged, and non-Hispanic Black subjects were higher (P < .05). Subjects with a high prevalence of CVD had higher serum Cu levels than non-CVD subjects (P < .05). Those in tertile 3 had a significantly higher prevalence of CVD (OR: 1.64; 95% CI 1.16–2.33) than those in the lowest tertile. Continuous variable analysis showed that serum Cu was positively associated with the prevalence of CVD (per 1 SD; OR: 1.23; 95% CI: 1.03–1.47). The dose-response curve demonstrated a linear association of Cu levels with CVD prevalence (P-nonlinear = 0.40), with the OR of CVD doubled at serum Cu levels of 20.0 µmol/L.
Conclusion
Excess serum Cu is associated with the prevalence of CVD among adult Americans.
Effective coverage of antenatal care services in Ethiopia: A population-based cross- sectional study
Authors: Abdissa Zewditu , Alemu Kassahun , Lemma Seblewengel , Berhanu Della , Defar Atkure , Getachew Theodros , Schellenberg Joanna , Marchant Tanya , Shiferaw Solomon , Tariku Amare , Guadu Tadesse , Taye Girum , Zelalem Meseret , Ake Lars
Published: October 2023

Background
Antenatal care (ANC) is a principal component of safe motherhood and reproductive health strategies across the continuum of care. Although the coverage of antenatal care visits has increased in Ethiopia, there needs to be more evidence of effective coverage of antenatal care. The 'effective coverage' concept can pinpoint where action is required to improve high-quality coverage in Ethiopia. Effective coverage indicates a health system's performance by incorporating need, utilization, and quality into a single measurement.The concept includes the number of contacts, facility readiness, interventions received, and components of services received. This study aimed to measure effective antenatal care coverage in Ethiopia.
Methods
A two-stage cluster sampling method was used and included 2714 women aged 15-49 years and 462 health facilities from six Ethiopian regions from October 2019 to January 2020. The effective coverage cascade was analyzed among the targeted women by computing the proportion who received four or more antenatal care visits where the necessary inputs were available, received iron folate supplementation and two doses of tetanus vaccination according to process quality components of antenatal care services.
Results
Of all women, 40% (95%CI; 38, 43) had four or more visits, ranging from 3% in Afar to 74% in Addis Ababa. The overall mean health facility readiness score of the facilities serving these women was 70%, the vaccination and iron folate supplementation coverage was 26%, and the ANC process quality was 64%. In the effective coverage cascade, the input-adjusted, intervention-adjusted, and quality-adjusted antenatal coverage estimates were 28%, 18%, and 12%, respectively.
Conclusion
The overall effective ANC coverage was low, primarily due to a considerable drop in the proportion of women who completed four or more ANC visits. Regarding quality, relatively little emphasis was given to discussion between care providers and clients. Community-based interventions to mobilize women to utilize the recommended number of ANC visits are crucial alongside interventions that improve care provider discussion with women about ANC components.
Association of Cognitive Deficits with Sociodemographic Characteristics among Adults with Post-COVID Conditions: Findings from the United States Household Pulse Survey
Authors: Wu Daniel J. , Liu Nianjun
Published: October 2023

Background

People infected with COVID-19 may continue to experience symptoms for several weeks or even months after acute infection, a condition known as long COVID. Cognitive problems such as memory loss are among the most commonly reported symptoms of long COVID. However, a comprehensive evaluation on the risks of cognitive decline following COVID infection among different sociodemographic groups has not been undertaken at the national level in the United States.

Methods

We conducted a secondary analysis on the datasets from U.S. Census Bureau Household Pulse Survey, encompassing the data collected from June 1, 2022 to December 19, 2022. Based on a cohort of 385,370 individuals aged 18 or older, we employed logistic regression analysis to examine the association between self-reported cognitive deficits and different sociodemographic factors among individuals with long COVID conditions.

Results

Among individuals aged 18 or older, 44.7% of survey respondents report having been diagnosed with COVID in the past, and 29.0% of those with previous COVID infection experienced long COVID symptoms lasting for more than 3 months. We have demonstrated that individuals with long COVID had significantly higher risk of experiencing cognitive deficits compared to those with no history of COVID infection. Furthermore, females, young adults, people with multiple races, or low levels of education attainment are at higher risk of cognitive deficits if they experience long COVID. At the state level, the prevalence of cognitive deficits among long COVID patients varied across different US states, with the highest prevalence in West Virginia and Kentucky, and the lowest prevalence in Connecticut and Maryland. The variation could be due to differences in racial composition and education level among long COVID patients in the four states.

Conclusions

The risks of cognitive deficits among adults with post-COVID conditions are substantial. Various sociodemographic groups can have different risks of developing cognitive deficits after experiencing long COVID. Findings of this large-scale study can help identify sociodemographic groups at higher risk of cognitive deficits, and facilitate medical interventions and guide resource allocation to target populations at risk and to prioritize areas with a high rate of cognitive decline.
Mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis with full-house pattern observed during treatment of immune thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Ueki Ai , Fukunaga Tsugumi , Hoshi Takafumi , Umetani Jun , Miyake Yuka , Goto Hiroyasu , Tanoue Keiko , Yamashiro Aoi , Minakuchi Hitoshi , Imakiire Toshihiko , Oshima Naoki
Published: October 2023

This study reports a rare case of mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis with a full-house pattern in a 56-year-old Japanese man. Mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis was observed during the treatment of immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). After his diagnosis with ITP in 2012, abnormal urinary findings with renal dysfunction were observed in July 2018. His complement titers were low, and he was negative for antinuclear antibodies. A percutaneous renal biopsy was performed in January 2019. Light microscopy revealed mesangial cell proliferation and double basement membrane; immunofluorescence indicated a full-house pattern; and electron microscopy revealed electron-dense deposits in the mesangial and subendothelial regions. He was diagnosed with mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis and non-lupus full-house nephropathy by renal biopsy. Because of coexisting hypocomplementemia and findings suggestive of membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN) on renal biopsy, he was treated as MPGN clinically with prednisolone, and his urinary findings improved markedly. However, as the complement titers were still low, mycophenolate mofetil was also prescribed, which normalized complement levels. Production of anti-platelet antibodies is involved in the etiology of ITP. Although little is known about the mechanism by which ITP causes glomerulonephritis, including MPGN, glomerular deposition of circulating immune complexes synthesized by antiplatelet antibodies may be involved. This case shows full-house nephropathy, suggesting the involvement of immune complexes, which in turn, suggested an association between ITP and glomerulonephritis.
Idiopathic Inflammatory Myopathies in the Post-COVID-19 Era: A Spotlight on Cardiac Impairment
Authors: Cheng Lu , Li Yanhong , Wu Yinlan , Luo Yubin , Zhou Yu , Ye Tong , Wen Ji , Liang Xiuping , Wu Tong , Huang Deying , Zhao Jing , Liang Zongan , Tan Chunyu , Liu Yi
Published: October 2023

Background
As the COVID-19 pandemic progresses, there have been reports of a syndrome involving multisystem organ damage following the immune response to the virus. However, it remains unclear whether patients with specific autoimmune diseases, such as idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs), exhibit a predisposition to unique pathological damage and whether their clinical phenotypes are altered by COVID-19.
Methods
This study was a retrospective case‒control study that included 62 patients with IIMs who had a prior history of COVID-19 (prior COVID-19, PC) and 52 patients without such a history (no prior COVID-19, NPC). Medical histories, laboratory examinations, and echocardiography data were compared between the two groups. Additionally, we investigated the potential molecular mechanisms underlying the association between COVID-19 and post infection clinical phenotypes in IIMs using publicly available transcriptome databases.
Results
Compared to the NPC group, patients in the PC group exhibited a higher prevalence of cardiopulmonary symptoms, including palpitation and dyspnea, as well as elevated levels of pulmonary and cardiovascular myositis activity assessment visual analog scales (MYOACT)/myositis intention-to-treat activity index (MITAX), cardiac troponin T, and hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase (HBDH). Echocardiographic analysis revealed larger left atrium (LA) dimensions, interventricular septum (IVS) thickness, and an increased ratio of peak velocity of left ventricular early-diastolic fast filling to the velocity of early diastolic myocardial movement at mitral ring (E/e’) in the PC group compared to the NPC group. Transcriptional data analysis based on public databases revealed that various mechanisms, including collagen matrix proliferation, regulation of the calcium ion pathway, oxidative stress, cell proliferation, and inflammatory molecules, collectively contribute to the pathogenesis of IIMs and COVID-19 infection.
Conclusion
Patients with IIMs exhibit more pronounced myocardial damage and impaired cardiac diastolic function following COVID-19, thereby offering valuable insights for the clinical management of IIMs patients and potential avenues for further investigation into the long-term consequences of COVID-19.
The functional study of core genes in systemic lupus erythematosus obtained through WGCNA analysis and two- sample Mendelian randomization research
Authors: Yan Haiying , Zheng Anmei , Zhan Huakui
Published: October 2023

Background：Systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by systemic inflammation. The underlying mechanisms of the disease are not yet clear, resulting in limited treatment options. The aim of this study is to investigate the potential core genes of systemic lupus erythematosus and evaluate their clinical applications in predicting the disease.
Method：We employed differential expression analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) to explore novel susceptibility modules and core genes associated with systemic lupus erythematosus. Further investigation of these core genes was carried out using KEGG and GO analyses to examine their potential roles. We established column line plot models and ROC curves to evaluate the diagnostic performance of the core genes. Additionally, we investigated the correlation between the core genes and immune infiltration. Finally, based on genome-wide association studies, we conducted a Mendelian randomization study to determine the causal effect of GYPB on systemic lupus erythematosus.
Results：We used the WGCNA method to construct a gene co-expression network and identified the most relevant modules related to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), as well as 144 overlapping key genes. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed that these core genes are closely associated with pathways such as DNA polymerase complex, astral microtubule and transferase complex, Malaria, and Porphyrin metabolism. Through analysis using Cytoscape software, we found that the top 10 upregulated genes with high scores were SLC4A1, EPB42, FECH, GYPB, ALAS2, AHSP, GATA1, KLF1, SNCA, and DMTN. Additionally, we observed that the column line graph model performed well in predicting the risk of systemic lupus erythematosus, and the ROC curve indicated its effectiveness for diagnosis.
In the end, we confirmed a causal relationship between the top five ranked core genes and immune cell infiltration in systemic lupus erythematosus. Additionally, in the inverse-variance weighted analysis, we found a negative correlation between GYPB and systemic lupus erythematosus, with an odds ratio (OR) of 0.620 (95% confidence interval = 0.4056-0.948, p=0.02).
Conclusion：We used WGCNA to construct a gene co-expression network and identified the core genes associated with systemic lupus erythematosus. These core genes help uncover the molecular mechanisms of systemic lupus erythematosus and enable further investigation into potential therapeutic targets.
Patient characteristics and reasons for discontinuation in a cardiovascular risk management programme in The Netherlands
Authors: Smits Geert H.J.M. , Doorn Sander , Bots Michiel L. , Hollander Monika
Published: October 2023

Background
Since 2010, an increasing number of patients have participated in a nurse-led integrated cardiovascular risk management programme in the Netherlands. Because it is important to understand which patients discontinue and why, when evaluating the effectiveness of the care programme, the aim was to identify the reasons for discontinuation.
Methods
Electronic health records of 3997 patients enrolled in a nurse-led integrated cardiovascular risk management programme that started on April 1st, 2010, were manually scrutinized for reasons for discontinuation between April 1st, 2010, and April 1st, 2018. In addition to death and moving to a diabetes care programme, we describe 7 different reasons why patients discontinued the programme and compared the patient characteristics of those who discontinued the programme without specific reasons with those who remained in the care programme for 8 years.
Results
Between April 1st, 2010, and April 1st, 2018, 1,190 participants (29.8%) discontinued the CVRM care programme, of whom 271 participants died (6.8%) and 195 were transferred to a diabetes care programme (4.9%). The remaining 724 patients (18.1%) participated 5 years before discontinuation. Of these, 67 (9.3%) had a previous cardiovascular event at the start of the programme. In 355 patients, a specific reason for discontinuation was not found. At baseline, these patients less frequently had a history of CVD than those who continued the programme for 8 years (1.7 vs 22.6%), were younger (62 vs 67 years), had less registered cardiovascular comorbidity (atrial fibrillation: 1.1 vs 7.2%; congestive heart failure 0.3 vs 1.2%; chronic kidney disease 0.0 vs 4.5%), were more often smokers (13.0% vs 4.3%) and took blood pressure- and lipid-lowering drugs twice as often.
Conclusions
Participants who drop out of a nurse-led integrated CVRM programme without any reason clearly seem to be a selective population with a different cardiovascular risk profile than those continuing the programme. Apart from the viewpoint of providing adequate health care adapted to the wishes of the patient, these findings are important to consider when evaluating the effectiveness of the programme.
Metabolomic profiling analysis reveals benefits of ginseng berry intake on mitochondrial function and glucose metabolism in liver of obese mice
Authors: Lee Kyun-Hee , Hong Moonju , Hur Haeng Jeon , Sung Mi Jeong , Lee Ae Sin , Kim Min Jung , Yang Hye Jeong , Kim Myung-Sunny
Published: October 2023

Introduction Ginseng berry (GB) has previously been demonstrated to improve systemic insulin resistance and regulate hepatic glucose metabolism and steatosis in mice with diet-induced obesity (DIO).Objectives In this study, the role of GB in metabolism was assessed using metabolomics analysis on the total liver metabolites of DIO mice.Methods Metabolomic profiling was performed using capillary electrophoresis time-of-flight mass spectrometry (CE-TOF/MS) of liver tissue from mice on a 12-wk normal chow diet (NC), high-fat diet (HFD), and HFD supplemented with 5% GB (HFD + GB). The detected metabolites, their pathways, and functions were analyzed through partial least square discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), the small molecular pathway database (SMPDB), and MetaboAnalyst 5.0.Results The liver metabolite profiles of the NC, HFD, and GB-fed mice (HFD + GB) were highly compartmentalized. The metabolites involved in major liver functions, such as mitochondrial function, gluconeogenesis/glycolysis, fatty acid metabolism, and primary bile acid biosynthesis, showed differences after GB intake. The metabolites that showed significant correlations with fasting blood glucose (FBG), insulin, and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were highly related to mitochondrial membrane function, energy homeostasis, and glucose metabolism. Ginseng berry intake increased the levels of metabolites involved in mitochondrial membrane function, decreased those involved in glucose metabolism, and was highly correlated with metabolic phenotypes.Conclusion This study demonstrated that long-term intake of GB changed the metabolite of hepatosteatotic livers in DIO mice, normalizing global liver metabolites involved in mitochondrial function and glucose metabolism and indicating the potential mechanism of GB in improving hyperglycemia in DIO mice.
Asymmetric convolution multi lane detection and tracking network based on spatial semantic segmentation
Authors: Shi Jinpeng , Zhang Xu , Zhang Xuechang
Published: October 2023

At present, the target detection network based on deep learning still has some problems in the field of lane line recognition, such as unclear Lane difference, low recognition accuracy, high false detection rate and high missed detection rate, high delay and high power consumption. In order to solve these problems, this paper proposes an asymmetric convolutional lane detection and tracking network AK-SCNNLane based on spatial instance segmentation. In the coding part, VGG16 network with asymmetric convolution kernel and spatial convolution neural network (SCNN) are applied to improve the ability of network structure to learn spatial relationships, which solves the problems of fuzzy, discontinuous and low real-time prediction of lane lines. At the same time, based on LaneNet, two branch tasks after encoding output are coupled to improve the poor foreground and background recognition and the indistinguishability between lanes. Finally, the method is compared with several semantic segmentation-based lane line algorithms in TuSimple dataset. Experimental results show that the accuracy score of this algorithm is 97.12% , and the false detection rate and missing detection rate are better than other networks. Compared with LaneNet, the false detection rate and missing detection rate are reduced by 44.87% and 12.7%, respectively. At the same time, the amount of calculation is significantly reduced, and the runtimes is reduced by 89.74% compared with LaneNet, which effectively improves the recognition and detection speed, and meets the real-time requirements (+30fps) that automatic driving scenes must meet. To sum up, the detection algorithm is not only effective, but also efficient, and basically meets the requirements of real-time lane detection and tracking.in comparison with LaneNet, the false detection rate is reduced by 44.87% and 12.7%.
Study of Diminutive Antenna employing identical elliptical notch in Elliptical Microstrip patch for multiband applications
Authors: Jat Nairaj , Gupta Manisha
Published: October 2023

The focus of discussion in this paper is an acceptable small configuration for an elliptical microstrip patch antenna. This is featured with planer geometry embedded mirror ellipse with elliptical notch layout. It can be used for multiband application in wireless communication. The chosen antenna produces seven echoing frequencies that operate across the frequency range of 5 to 18 GHz, including 5.9 GHz (use in WiMAX), 8.2 GHz, 9.99 GHz (use in X- band), 12.63 GHz (use in space services and within rise-data-rate), 13.97 GHz (land portable spacecraft, broadcast navigating implementation), 16.24 GHz and 17.57 GHz (use in Ku- band). The proposed antenna has mirror-imaged elliptical slots with embedded ellipse in slots having the microstrip signal line feed without any defects in the ground structure. A simulation tool that uses the finite element modelling set up (ex. CST) created the potential antenna. On a dual-sided FR-4 substrate (ɛᵣ = 4.3) with a layer thickness ‘h’ of 1.6 mm and a surface size (Ls× Ws) of 20 x 24 mm², the recommended antenna is modelled. The outcomes of the simulations show the fact that our presented antenna has satisfactory gain and S11 ≤ -10 dB input impedance bandwidths across seven working frequencies. This offered antenna design concept is a major contender for multiple purposes in wireless communication and is backed by resonant frequency regions spread throughout a broad spectrum.
CAR affinity modulates the sensitivity of CAR-T cells to PD-1/PD-L1-mediated inhibition
Authors: Guedan Sonia , Andreu-Saumell Irene , Rodriguez-Garcia Alba , Gimenez-Alejandre Marta , Castellsagué Joan , Mühlgrabner Vanessa , Brasó-Maristany Fara , Calderon Hugo , Marzal Berta , Colell Salut , Nuding Mara , Soria-Castellano Marta , Barbao Paula , Prat Aleix , Urbano-Ispizua Alvaro , Huppa Johannes
Published: October 2023

CAR-T cell therapy for solid tumors faces significant hurdles, including T-cell inhibition mediated by the PD-1/PD-L1 axis. The effects of disrupting this pathway on T-cells are being actively explored and controversial outcomes have been reported. Here, we hypothesize that CAR-antigen affinity may be a key factor modulating T-cell susceptibility towards the PD-1/PD-L1 axis. We systematically interrogated CAR-T cells targeting HER2 with either low (LA) or high affinity (HA) in various preclinical models. Our results revealed an increased sensitivity of LA CAR-T cells to PD-L1-mediated inhibition when compared to their HA counterparts by using in vitro models of tumor cell lines and supported lipid bilayers (SLB) modified to display varying PD-L1 densities. CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout (KO) of PD-1 enhanced LA CAR-T cell cytokine secretion and polyfunctionality in vitro and antitumor effect in vivo and resulted in downregulation of gene signatures related to T-cell exhaustion. By contrast, HA CAR-T cell features remained unaffected following PD-1 KO. This behavior held true for CD28 and ICOS but not 4-1BB co-stimulated CAR-T cells, which were less sensitive to PD-L1 inhibition. Our findings may inform CAR-T therapies involving disruption of PD-1/PD-L1 pathway tailored in particular for effective treatment of solid tumors.
High Solids Fibrillation of Cellulosic Fibers with and without Pretreatments through Planetary Ball Milling
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxue , Yelle Daniel , Kitin Peter , Tong Guolin , Zhu J. Y.
Published: October 2023

This study conducted a detailed evaluation of the feasibility of producing microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) from a kraft bleached hardwood pulp at high solids loadings with and without pretreatments. MFCs produced by planetary ball milling at solids loading at 17% and 28% were compared with those from 1% and 5% under the same milling conditions. Fiber pretreatments using a commercial endoglucanase and mechanical refining using a laboratory PFI mill were also applied before ball milling at solids loading of 28%. Two mechanisms of fiber fibrillation were identified from the results obtained: (i) ball and fiber/fibril interactions and (ii) inter-fiber/fibril frictional and tensional interactions. High solids loading with both mechanisms (i) and (ii) enhanced fiber fibrillation. A higher solids loading tends to result in a more uniformly fibrillated MFC than that from a lower solids loading run. Endoglucanase pretreatment substantially shortened fibers to result in a pulverized-like MFC with short fibrils at extended milling time. Mechanical refining of fibers facilitated fibrillation to result in MFCs with a morphology similar to that from fibers without any pretreatment but for a much shorter ball milling time. The insights gained through this study provides relevant information with commercial significance about MFC production at high solids, not available in the literature.
Silk gland morphology of the net-casting spider Deinopis spinosa
Authors: Correa-Garhwal Sandra M , Stafstrom Jay , Baker Richard H. , Hayashi Cheryl Y. , Hoy Ronald , Reeve Kern , Garb Jessica E.
Published: October 2023

Net-casting spiders (Deinopidae) are cribellate spiders that spin a rectangular, sticky net that is held stretched between the claws of their first two pairs of legs. Deinopids produce eight distinct silk types, but knowledge of the silk-producing morphologies is mostly limited to the spigots associated with different fibers. As there have been no studies of deinopid silk gland structure, we dissected all the silk glands from Deinopis spinosa and document their number and morphology. We found silk gland position and morphology consistent with the type and number of silk spigots described for Deinopidae. Notably, for the first time, we describe the silk glands associated with cribellate silk: paracribellate, pseudoflagelliform, and cribellar silk glands. Our findings support the homology of pseudoflagelliform glands with araneoid flagelliform glands and will have importance for informing our understanding of spider web evolution.
Causal association between physical activity and sedentary behavior and gestational diabetes mellitus: A Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Gao Jie , Liu Jingfang
Published: October 2023

Introduction Evidence of an association between physical activity (PA), sedentary behavior (SB) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) remains controversial in observational studies, this study aimed to explore the causal association between PA, SB and GDM.
MethodsOur study performed Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to explore the effects of three types of PA (moderate physical activity (MPA), moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA), accelerometer-based physical activity (ABPA)), three types of SB (television watching (TV), leisure computer use (PC), driving (DR)) on GDM and the mediating effect of body mass index (BMI). The inverse variance weighted method was used for the major analysis.
ResultsIn univariate MR analysis, we found that genetically predicted TV and PC among SB were associated with GDM (OR = 1.61, P = 0.001; OR = 0.71, P = 0.037), whereas, DR was not (OR = 1.68, P = 0.623). However, no association was found between physical activity and GDM: MPA (OR = 0.40, P= 0.273), MVPA (OR = 0.96, P = 0.861), and ABPA (OR = 0.99, P = 0.838). Multivariate MR analysis found that the causal effect of a 1 SD (1.5h) independently increase in the duration of TV was a 64% increase in the odds of GDM (OR = 1.64, P = 0.008) and that BMI was a mediating factor with a 62% mediating effect.
ConclusionsThis study demonstrated an independently causal association between TV and GDM, which is mediated by BMI, providing evidence for reducing the risk of GDM during pregnancy by reducing television watching time.
Corporate Wealth and Socioeconomic Conditions: How Globalization affects Domestic Economies
Authors: Mehar Muhammad Ayub Khan
Published: October 2023

Based on empirical pieces of evidence, this study supports globalization. It concludes that the use of the Internet, the arrival and departure of tourists, and the quantum of external trade play significant and robust roles in the alleviation of poverty, improving decent employment, reducing income inequalities, and improving domestic businesses. The major contribution of foreign direct investment is derived through improvement in local businesses. More importantly, information technology plays a substantial role in the progress of the domestic economy. Growth in merchandising trade improves GDP growth and alleviates vulnerable employment. Trade in services improves GDP growth and labor participation rate, while it alleviates poverty, unemployment, and inflation. The effectiveness of monetary policies has also been confirmed in this analysis. The panel least square techniques have been applied to estimate the effects of explanatory variables. This research is based on 14 years data (from 2008 to 2021) from 187 countries.
JEL Classification: E51, I32, J64, O21
Fulminant hepatitis revealing complicated Crohn’s disease of budd chiari syndrome:about a case
Authors: Belkhatir Amal , Hassaine Mahdi
Published: October 2023

The Budd-chiari syndrome (BCS) is a rare vascular disease of multifactorial etiopathogenesis, represents a serious thromboembolic complication of Crohn's disease(CD), and may be the revealing mode. This condition results from obstruction of hepatic venous drainage from the hepatic venules to the terminal part of the inferior vena cava, and can be primary or secondary. Here, we report a case of a young woman with fulminant hepatitis whose etiological diagnosis revealed Crohn's disease with acute budd chiari syndrome and who was successfully treated with anticoagulants associated with biotherapy. The patient had a very good clinical evolution, after three months total recovery from the BCS. Very few cases have been published on this association.
Perforation of the brachial artery during percutaneous lower extremity angioplasty via the brachial artery approach resulted in difficulties in balloon catheter removal: a case report
Authors: Yoshishige Yusuke , Kashima Katsuro , Arata Kenichi , Ooi Masaomi , Kawabata Kazuyo
Published: October 2023

Background Percutaneous endovascular treatment of peripheral vascular disease with small-caliber short sheaths may lead to device removal difficulties.
Case presentation A 50-year-old woman on hemodialysis underwent endovascular intervention for right common femoral artery stenosis, via the right brachial artery. A 4-F short sheath was used for the procedure owing to a previous hematoma at the puncture site. However, the balloon catheter could not cross the calcified lesion and was difficult to remove. A microcatheter was inserted and withdrawn, but the guidewire was kinked and could not be retrieved. Surgical retrieval of the guidewire and balloon catheter was performed. The kinked guidewire and microcatheter had migrated outside the vessel.
Conclusions In peripheral vascular intervention, the use of a long sheath in the brachial artery approach is important. Forcible removal of a difficult-to-remove catheter may cause further vascular damage. Therefore, it is essential to stop immediately and consider surgical treatment.
Nuclear sortilin controls genes involved in oncogenic pathways in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: May Yassine , Lea Ikhlef , Boutaina Chandouri Faize , Heloise Daverat , Luc Negroni , Fabrice  Lalloue , Thomas Naves
Published: October 2023

Sortilin, a glycoprotein belonging to the Vps10 family, is mainly recognized for its contribution to protein sorting. Its dichotomous role in oncology, between tumor promotion and suppression, remains highly controversial. Our present study reveals a novel mechanism relying on the nuclear localization of sortilin, acting on transcription, chromatin reorganization and DNA repair. Its role in limiting tumor progression of lung adenocarcinoma cell lines was confirmed with sustained EGFR proliferative signaling. Furthermore, we report that sortilin overexpression limits the growth of NCI-H1975 and NCI-H3255 cell lines, regulating gene expression but also indirectly altering oncogenic pathways such as MTOR and AKT. Through its transcriptional action, sortilin interacts directly with proteins central to DNA repair mechanisms and chromatin reorganization. Finally, our findings reshape the traditional view of sortilin, suggesting implications not restricted to its simple protein transport, which contributes to explain its heterogeneous roles in different tumors. These insights also position sortilin as a promising candidate to engineer innovative therapeutics in lung adenocarcinoma.
„Widerstand mit vielleicht veralteten Mitteln“
Authors: Wintersteiner Werner
Published: October 2023

Dieser Text versucht, die politische Dimension von Deutschunterricht und Deutschdidaktik systematisch und historisch zu erfassen. Die Beschäftigung mit Sprache, Literatur und Medien ist eine naturgemäß politische Angelegenheit. Das Politische sollte jedoch nicht nur als Inhalt des Unterrichts, sondern als Herausforderung für das Selbstverständnis des Faches verstanden werden. Das Politische ist kein spezielles  Arbeitsfeld des Deutschunterrichts, wie z. B. das Barock oder die Textgrammatik. Das Politische ist eine Dimension aller Arbeitsfelder.

Der Deutschunterricht verdankt historisch gesehen politischen Zielsetzungen seinen Aufstieg als Leitfach im schulischen Fächerkanon. Die moderne Deutschdidaktik hat sich wiederum in den 1970er Jahren in explizit politischer Absicht von der Deutschmethodik abgesetzt. Deswegen wird zunächst ein Blick auf die Anfänge der Disziplin in den 1960er und 1970er Jahren geworfen. In einem weiteren Anlauf werden heutige Herausforderungen durch Globalisierung, Postkolonialismus und die aktuelle Polykrise erörtert, und es wird für einen Paradigmenwechsel plädiert. Der Text endet mit einigen Hinweisen auf eine politisch verstandene Literaturdidaktik.
THE KNEE JOINT IS THE ACHILLES' HEEL OF A CHILD'S BODY
Authors: Protsaylo Mihailo , Dzhyvak Volodymyr , Synytska Vira , Krytskyi Ihor , Hoshchynskyi Pavlo , Chornomydz Iryna
Published: October 2023

The study objective was to draw practicing physicians’ attention to the risk of knee joint disorders in children during intensive growth to ensure timely detection and treatment.
Materials and Methods. We analyzed the results of studies on the diseases of the knee joint carried out by modern scientists over the past ten years. We also took into account the clinical observations of children receiving inpatient treatment at the regional children's hospital. The examination methods were radiography, computer tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and ultrasound.
Results and Discussion. During growth, a child's knee joint is subjected to enormous loads and is sensitive to external and internal factors. The knee joint plays a dominant role in the limb’s longitudinal growth; the growth zones grow so intensively that they can be compared to the work of a "bone nuclear reactor." The bones of the skeleton grow unevenly and intermittently. The peak height velocity is observed at 10–14 years in girls and at 13–18 years in boys; then, height velocity slows down, and after 19 years, height growth almost stops.
During the period of intensive growth, bones are very sensitive to internal and external factors of shape formation (growth hormones, physiological loads, radiation, vibration, injuries, hypothermia, metabolic disorders, etc. Therefore, this part is most sensitive to various endogenous and exogenous factors, which is manifested by various dysplastic changes and diseases.
Conclusions. During the intensive growth of the child, the knee joint is most vulnerable to various endogenous and exogenous negative factors, which is manifested by various diseases. Osteogenic sarcoma, fibrous cortical defect, and juvenile osteocartilaginous exostoses most often affect the weakest place of the knee joint – the metaphyses of the femur and tibia (Achilles’ heel).
Seminal Plasma Proteins Associated with The Fertility of Brahman Bulls in The Colombian Low Tropics
Authors: Liliana J. Chacón  , Germán D. Yepes  , Jaime Cardozo  , Fabian Rueda  , Viviana Castillo  , Andres Torres  , Jorge Martins  , Ariosto Ardila
Published: October 2023

The sperm interacts with seminal plasma proteins during its transport through the female reproductive tract to reach the oocyte. Seminal plasma proteins have been associated as biomarkers of fertility in bovine males, while two-dimensional electrophoresis in polyacrylamide gels under denaturing conditions (2D-PAGE) is a useful technique for their separation, allowing their subsequent analysis with the aid of specialized software. Brahman bulls are known for their tolerance to tropical conditions such as low-quality pastures, high temperatures, and relative humidity as well as moderate resistance to infestations by parasites and insects. The present study describes the two-dimensional electrophoretic profiles of the seminal plasma proteins in the rainy and dry seasons, associating them with the fertility of Brahman bulls in the Colombian Orinoquía in a 90-days breeding season and a single-sire mating system (1 bull per 50 Brahman cows) with 60 consecutive days of rest. The fertility-related seminal plasma protein spots increased in the dry season. Likewise, a meaningful relationship was found between the protein spots that possibly coincide with the Binder of Sperm Proteins. It was also found that bulls with the highest percentages of pregnancy also had similarities in their 2D seminal plasma maps. We conclude that the seminal plasma protein profile of Brahman bulls raised in the Colombian low tropic changes between rainy and dry seasons, and such changes may influence the reproductive performance of those animals.
The fate of sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim in a micro-aerated anaerobic membrane bioreactor and the occurrence of antibiotic resistance in the permeate
Authors: Piaggio Antonella , Mittapalli Srilekha , Calderón-Franco David , Weissbrodt David , van Lier Jules , de Kreuk Merle , Lindeboom Ralph
Published: October 2023

This study investigates the effects, conversions, and resistance induction, following the addition of 150 μg·L−1 of two antibiotics, sulfamethoxazole (SMX) and trimethoprim (TMP), in a laboratory-scale micro-aerated anaerobic membrane bioreactor (MA-AnMBR). TMP and SMX were removed at 97 and 86%, indicating that micro-aeration did not hamper their removal. These antibiotics only affected the pH and biogas composition of the process, with a significant change in pH from 7.8 to 7.5, and a decrease in biogas methane content from 84 to 78%. TMP was rapidly adsorbed onto the sludge and subsequently degraded during the long solids retention time of 27 days. SMX adsorption was minimal, but the applied hydraulic retention time of 2.6 days was sufficiently long to biodegrade SMX. The levels of three antibiotic-resistant genes (ARGs) (sul1, sul2, and dfrA1) and one mobile genetic element biomarker (intI1) were analyzed by qPCR. Additions of the antibiotics increased the relative abundances of all ARGs and intI1 in the MA-AnMBR sludge, with the sul2 gene folding 15 times after 310 days of operation. The MA-AnMBR was able to reduce the concentration of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) in the permeate by 3 log.
Gastrointestinal Tract and Kidney Injury Pathogenesis in Post-COVID-19 Syndrome
Authors: Marzoog Basheer Abdullah
Published: October 2023

COVID-19 is a global health emergency that requires worldwide collaboration to control
its spread. The scientific community is working to understand the different aspects of the
post-COVID-19 syndrome and potential treatment strategies. Interestingly, there have been reports
of gastrointestinal tract (GIT) involvement in the post-COVID-19 syndrome, suggesting
the presence of both severe and mild GIT disorders. The development of the post-COVID-19-
GIT syndrome involves various factors, such as impaired GIT mucosa cells, disruptions in the
feeling of satiety, reduced blood supply due to the formation of small blood clots, and increased
prostaglandin secretion caused by an excessive immune response. GIT symptoms have been observed
in around 16% of COVID-19 patients. Other complications include kidney damage and
prolonged impairment in the filtration and excretion functions of the glomeruli and tubules. The
pathogenesis of post-COVID-19 renal syndrome involves factors, like an overactive immune response,
reduced lung perfusion and oxygenation, viral infection in kidney tissues, endothelial
dysfunction, and decreased blood volume. Roughly 20% of hospitalized patients experience renal
manifestations after recovering from COVID-19.
Physics of Strain Hardening of Structural Steels
Authors: Ivanov Yu.F.
Published: October 2023

The book reviews new research in the area of deformation mechanisms of structural steels and the possibilities to control the process of strain hardening. Topics covered include: The bainite, martensite and pearlite structure of these steels; the strengthening mechanisms of quenched steel; the evolution of phase composition and defect sub-structure of bainitic steel under deformation; the hardening mechanisms of bainitic steels; and the strain hardening of structural steels with pearlite structure.
Efecto de campo magnético en el tratamiento de aguas duras
Authors: Zavaleta Mery , Valera Aníbal , Rivas Enrique , Mendoza Atilio , Tinoco Soledad
Published: October 2023

El efecto del campo magnético sobre aguas duras ha sido reconocido por cerca de 100 años, no obstante, el mecanismo del mismo es aún desconocido. Una de las principales aplicaciones es la de suprimir las incrustaciones dentro de calderos, intercambiadores de calor y ductos de transmisión. En este artículo, reportamos una serie de experimentos de Laboratorio concernientes al efecto positivo del tratamiento magnético de aguas duras. Los principales métodos de diagnósticos empleados fueron: Observaciones del factor de turbiedad (Efecto Tyndall). Observaciones cristalográficas bajo luz polarizada, estructural (espectros Debye-Scherrer) y análisis químico.