bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Flare up as Acute Spinal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage with Bilateral Lower Limb Paralysis
Authors: Yang Xiang , Richard Seidu A. , Liu Jiagang , Huang Siqing
Published: May 2018

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is an uncommon complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Solitary association of fatal spinal SAH as a complication of SLE, has not been encountered much in literature although coexisting acute cerebral and spinal SAH have been associated with SLE. We present a 39-year old female with initial diagnosis of SLE eight years ago who suddenly developed a productive cough, acute abdomen and paralysis of the lower limbs. Magnetic resonance imaging of the spine revealed thoracic spinal SAH with varying degrees of thoracic spinal cord compression. The hemorrhage was total evacuated via surgery. She regained normal function of her lower limbers after the operation with no further neurological complications. One of the rare but fatal complications of SLE is solitary spinal SAH without cranial involvement. The best and most appropriate management of this kind of presentation is surgical decompression of the hematoma with total hemostasis. The cause of hemorrhage should be identified intra-operatively and treated appropriately.
The Frequency of Clinical Manifestations of Hypophosphatemic Rickets in Patients with Therapeutic Strategies
Authors: Kanafi Vahed Leila , Arianpur Afshin , Esmaeili Mohammad
Published: May 2018

The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency of clinical manifestations of various types of rickets in patients could be effective in therapeutic strategies. A total of eleven child patients (7 females and 4 males) were included in the present study. The patients were admitted to the hospital with hypophosphatemic rickets. In our study, the age at the time of diagnosis ranged from 1 to15 years. Mean age of first presentations at final diagnosis was determined to be 5.5 an 2 years, respectively. Five patients out of 11 patients had showed significant history of vitamin D3 resistance. Family history of similar skeletal problems was reported to be positive in six patients. Furthermore, there were seven relative marriages in parents. Mean value of Gomez index has been revealed as 64%. Mean serum phosphate level was detected as 2.9 mg/dL, that this level in males (2.2 mg/dL) was significantly less than females (3.4 mg/dL) (P=0.5). Mean serum alkaline phosphatase activity was reached 913 IU/L. Alkaline phosphatase activity in women (1075 IU/L) was significantly lower than that of men (750 IU/L), (P=0.5). Definitive treatment with oral phosphate and vitamin D3 can prevent complications of the disease and the side effects of unconventional treatments.
Cancer oriented biobanks: A comprehensive review
Authors: Patil Shankargouda , Majumdar Barnali , Awan Kamran Habib , Sarode Gargi S. , Sarode Sachin C. , Gadbail Amol R. , Gondivkar Shailesh
Published: May 2018

Biobanks provide a platform for innovative biomedical research and has improvised translational and personalized medicine to a great extent. Time 2009 published 10 ideas changing the world right now with biobanks on the list emphasizing its role in discovery and development of new therapeutic drugs. They form the cornerstone, providing resources for future investigations and biomarker discovery to understand the effects of genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors on human morbidity, mortality and health. The aim of this review paper is to understand the role of biobanking in cancer research, the challenges faced and strategies to overcome these, for long term and sustainable research in the field of oncology.
Cost efficiency and non-performing loans: An application of the Granger causality test
Authors: Abel Sanderson
Published: May 2018

This study evaluated the nexus between cost efficiency and non-performing loans (NPLs) in the Zimbabwean banking sector for the period 2009–2014. The study was motivated by the increase in NPLs in the banking sector while banks have been accused of profiteering through excessive bank charges and interest rates. The study contributes to the literature on the relationship between efficiency and NPLs, which is a controversial area. The study established that the average cost efficiency was 81%. It increased from 70% to 88% between 2009 and 2014. It declined in 2012 and 2013 because of slowdown in economic activity. The study established that cost efficiency negatively Granger-causes NPLs, supporting the bad management hypothesis implying that the low level of efficiency was a result of poor credit management which led to a deterioration in the quality of banks’ loan books. Although poor credit policies might look lucrative in the short run, they have detrimental effects on the quality of the loan books of banks in the long run. The policy recommendation drawn from the results is that credit managers should adhere to the international best practice in managing credit.
From jazz notes to bank notes: The determinants of spending by black music festival attendees
Authors: Kruger Martinette , Metsi Phatshimo I.
Published: May 2018

Diamonds and Dorings Music Festival is used as a strategy to increase attendee numbers and associated spending to boost the economy of Kimberley and Northern Cape Province. The festival attracts mostly the Black Diamond market, a term coined to describe South Africa’s black middle-class people. In the festival context, the Black Diamonds can be regarded as a niche and emerging market that is growing in the South African economy. Unfortunately, to date, limited research has focused on the needs and spending power of this market at music festivals. To fill this gap, this research identified the determinants of the festival attendees’ spending. A visitor survey was conducted at the festival in 2015 where 367 questionnaires were administered. A linear regression analysis identified the determinants of attendee spending that included a higher number of tickets purchased, all spending components, being a local resident, staying with family and friends, staying in a guest house or B&B and hearing about the festival on the radio. These determinants have a significant influence on respondents’ behaviour to spend more money when attending the festival. Marketers and organisers of Diamonds and Dorings should focus on these determinants to influence higher spending at the festival in future.
Seguridad alimentaria nutricional según percepción en hogares de Kukra Hill, Región Autónoma de la Costa Caribe Sur, Nicaragua 2015
Authors: Pineda Whitaker Alice Marie
Published: May 2018

El estudio tiene como objetivo conocer la situación de Seguridad Alimentaria Nutricional y algunos factores asociados, en los hogares del municipio de Kukra Hill-Región Autónoma Costa Caribe Sur (RACCS). Es un estudio analítico de factores de riesgo, con una muestra constituida por 107 jefes de hogares. El instrumento utilizado fue la Escala Latinoamericana y Caribeña de Seguridad Alimentaria, se agregaron algunos indicadores condicionantes. Entre los principales hallazgos se destaca que la Inseguridad Alimentaria afecta a la tercera parte de los hogares estudiados. La inseguridad Alimentaria Severa alcanzo un 32%. Los resultados de la encuesta evidencia preocupación en más de la mitad de los hogares de que el alimento se acabara, y por falta de dinero u otros recursos veían la disponibilidad y el acceso limitado. Más de la mitad de los hogares no tienen una alimentación nutritiva, hay poca variedad de alimentos. En relación a la cantidad de alimentos, el 50% de los hogares en algún momento se quedaron sin alimento, muchos comieron menos de lo acostumbrado y hasta dejaron de desayunar, almorzar o cenar, por falta de dinero u otro recurso. El hambre afecto a todos los hogares, donde algunos de los integrantes, sintieron hambre pero no había que comer, por lo tanto no comieron y a veces solo comieron una vez al día, o pasaron todo el día sin comer. La Inseguridad Alimentaria en los hogares de los encuestados estuvo asociado a: ubicación geográfica. Vivir en las zonas 3, OR= 3.43; Ji²= 5.03 vivir en la zona 5, OR=3.48; Ji²=5.64. Escolaridad, Ser analfabeto OR=2.73; Ji²=3.49. Ingreso mensual menor a C$ 2,850 OR=4.72; Ji²=4.30. Ser de la Etnia Miskita OR=4.68; Ji²=5.79. Cobertura del Ingreso, cubre menos que los gastos mínimos. OR= 2.05, Ji=3.48.
In memoria Roberto Lucio Paredes Ortiz (1935-2016) Fundador y primer rector de la Universidad Evangélica de El Salvador (1981-1987)
Authors: Quinteros César Emilio
Published: May 2018

Revista ciencia, cultura y sociedad Vol. 3 No. 2 julio-diciembre 2016; 5-6
Epidemiological study of honeybee pathogens in Europe: The results of Castilla-La Mancha (Spain)
Authors: Buendía Maria , Martín-Hernández Raquel , Ornosa Concepción , Barrios Laura , Bartolomé Carolina , Higes Mariano
Published: May 2018

As a part of a Pilot Monitoring Program of honey bee health coordinated by the EURL (European Union Reference Laboratory) and according to the criteria established for Spain, 14 apiaries in Castilla-La Mancha were selected at random and sampled during the autumns of 2012-2014 to identify the most prevalent nosogenic agents, potentially those related to the honey bee colony collapse phenomenon. In all the apiaries studied, Nosema ceranae was the most prevalent pathogen detected over the three years, confirming the worldwide spread of this microsporidian, a pathogen that negatively affects honey bee health at an individual and colony level. Trypanosomatids were also very prevalent in honey bee colonies, although the majority of Trypanosomatids detected were not Crithidia mellificae but rather the genetically distinct Lotmaria passim lineage. We also detected Varroa destructor mites, and the particularly high prevalence in 2014 suggests a possible problem regarding mite control in field conditions that requires attention. In agreement with data from other regions, the BQCV and DWV were the most prevalent viruses in honey bee colonies and thus, the Varroa-DVW interaction may be an important cause of bee colony mortality. While there was little evidence of a relationship between the BQCV virus and N. ceranae under field conditions during 2012, this was not the case in 2013 and 2014. Finally, the AKI-complex or LSV-complex was not detected. The information obtained in this study should help orientate future plans for honey bee disease control.
Creation of Zero Carbon Emissions Wastewater Treatment Plants - A Case Study in Crete, Greece
Authors: Vourdoubas John
Published: May 2018

Wastewater treatment plants use energy intensive processes for removing pollutants, consuming large amounts of electricity and emitting greenhouse gases. The possibility of zeroing carbon emissions due to energy use in these plants has been investigated in the current work with reference to the municipal treatment plant of Chania on the island of Crete, Greece. The sewage treatment plant processes 19,400 M3 daily consuming 0.543 KWh per M3 or 3840 MWh annually. The use of locally available renewable energies has been proposed for electricity generation combined with co-generation of heat and power from the biogas already produced in the plant with sludge digestion. Installation of solar-PV systems and wind turbines in the plant could generate electricity, each equal to 25 % of the annual electricity consumption in the plant. Additionally, biogas use can cover all the heating needs in the plant and can generate electricity corresponding at 20% of the total annual grid electricity use. Creation of a tree plantation, irrigated by the treated effluent, of 118.4 hectares, has been proposed which could annually offset carbon emissions due to the remaining grid electricity use. Creation of the tree plantation will create additional benefits, due to existing land desertification in Crete, additionally to carbon sequestration. The size of the required solar-PV and wind turbine systems has been estimated at 640 KWp and 391 KW and their cost at 0.832 mil € and 0.430 mil € correspondingly. Current work indicates that the combined use of solar energy, wind energy, biogas and carbon sequestration with tree plantations could zero carbon emissions in the municipal sewage treatment plant of Chania, Crete.
Posthumain, postmachine
Authors: CHASSAY JEAN-FRANÇOIS
Published: May 2018

La figure de l’hybridité traverse aujourd’hui la fiction, dans un univers social où
les manipulations biomédicales et la génétique autant que les études de genre remettent en
question diverses formes d’essentialisme, alors que le réseautage planétaire et le cyborg
vont jusqu’à interroger la réalité humaine. Dans ce contexte, cet article se penche sur le
roman Suréquipée, de Grégoire Courtois, qui pousse très loin la métaphore de
l’anthropomorphisme, faisant d’une voiture une entité vivante, principal témoin dans une
histoire de disparition. Une machine qui devient une sorte de monstre, de cyborg d’un genre
particulièrement inusité.
Hypothesis of the conjunct expression gene: can random mutation explain the phenotypic variability?
Authors: Zapata Trejo Víctor A
Published: May 2018

The epigenome regulates the gene expression of all differentiated cells and indicates which specific genes must be transcribed. It is argued that the expression factors that act in specific genes of the somatic cells involved in a behavior also act in the partial transcription of the same genes in the most undifferentiated cells of the germ line. It is proposed how a probabilistic view of the random mutation can explain the evolution of the phenotypes and integrate all the evidence pointing to a conjunct evolution with the environment.
RNA interference-mediated silencing of genes involved in the immune responses of the soybean pod borer Leguminivora glycinivorella (Lepidoptera: Olethreutidae)
Authors: Ran Ruixue , Li Tianyu , Liu Xinxin , Ni Hejia , Li Wenbin , Meng Fanli
Published: May 2018

RNA interference (RNAi) technology may be useful for developing new crop protection strategies against the soybean pod borer (SPB; Leguminivora glycinivorella), which is a critical soybean pest in northeastern Asia. Immune-related genes have been recently identified as potential RNAi targets for controlling insects. However, little is known about these genes or mechanisms underlying their expression in the SPB. In this study, we completed a transcriptome-wide analysis of SPB immune-related genes. We identified 41 genes associated with SPB microbial recognition proteins, immune-related effectors or signalling molecules in immune response pathways (e.g., Toll and immune deficiency pathways). Eleven of these genes were selected for a double-stranded RNA artificial feeding assay. The down-regulated expression levels of LgToll-5-1a and LgPGRP-LB2a resulted in relatively high larval mortality rates and abnormal development. Our data represent a comprehensive genetic resource for immune-related SPB genes, and may contribute to the elucidation of the mechanism regulating innate immunity in Lepidoptera species. Furthermore, two immune-related SPB genes were identified as potential RNAi targets, which may be used in the development of RNAi-mediated SPB control methods.
The transcriptomic and epigenetic map of vascular quiescence in the continuous lung endothelium
Authors: Schlereth Katharina , Weichenhan Dieter , Bauer Tobias , Heumann Tina , Giannakouri Evangelia , Lipka Daniel , Jaeger Samira , Schlesner Matthias , Aloy Patrick , Eils Roland , Plass Christoph , Augustin Hellmut G
Published: May 2018

Maintenance of a quiescent and organotypically-differentiated layer of blood vessel-lining endothelial cells (EC) is vital for human health. Yet, the molecular mechanisms of vascular quiescence remain largely elusive. Here we identify the genome-wide transcriptomic program controlling the acquisition of quiescence by comparing lung EC of infant and adult mice, revealing a prominent regulation of TGFß family members. These transcriptomic changes are distinctly accompanied by epigenetic modifications, measured at single CpG resolution. Gain of DNA methylation affects developmental pathways, including NOTCH signaling. Conversely, loss of DNA methylation preferentially occurs in intragenic clusters affecting intronic enhancer regions of genes involved in TGFβ family signaling. Functional experiments prototypically validated the strongly epigenetically regulated inhibitors of TGFβ family signaling SMAD6 and SMAD7 as regulators of EC quiescence. These data establish the transcriptional and epigenetic landscape of vascular quiescence that will serve as a foundation for further mechanistic studies of vascular homeostasis and disease-associated activation.
High-quality ultrastructural preservation using cryofixation for 3D electron microscopy of genetically labeled tissues
Authors: Tsang Tin Ki , Bushong Eric A , Boassa Daniela , Hu Junru , Romoli Benedetto , Phan Sebastien , Dulcis Davide , Su Chih-Ying , Ellisman Mark H
Published: May 2018

Electron microscopy (EM) offers unparalleled power to study cell substructures at the nanoscale. Cryofixation by high-pressure freezing offers optimal morphological preservation, as it captures cellular structures instantaneously in their near-native state. However, the applicability of cryofixation is limited by its incompatibility with diaminobenzidine labeling using genetic EM tags and the high-contrast en bloc staining required for serial block-face scanning electron microscopy (SBEM). In addition, it is challenging to perform correlated light and electron microscopy (CLEM) with cryofixed samples. Consequently, these powerful methods cannot be applied to address questions requiring optimal morphological preservation. Here, we developed an approach that overcomes these limitations; it enables genetically labeled, cryofixed samples to be characterized with SBEM and 3D CLEM. Our approach is broadly applicable, as demonstrated in cultured cells, Drosophila olfactory organ and mouse brain. This optimization exploits the potential of cryofixation, allowing for quality ultrastructural preservation for diverse EM applications.
Ten years of progress and promise of induced pluripotent stem cells: historical origins, characteristics, mechanisms, limitations, and potential applications
Authors: Omole Adekunle Ebenezer , Fakoya Adegbenro Omotuyi John
Published: May 2018

The discovery of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) by Shinya Yamanaka in 2006 was heralded as a major breakthrough of the decade in stem cell research. The ability to reprogram human somatic cells to a pluripotent embryonic stem cell-like state through the ectopic expression of a combination of embryonic transcription factors was greeted with great excitement by scientists and bioethicists. The reprogramming technology offers the opportunity to generate patient-specific stem cells for modeling human diseases, drug development and screening, and individualized regenerative cell therapy. However, fundamental questions have been raised regarding the molecular mechanism of iPSCs generation, a process still poorly understood by scientists. The efficiency of reprogramming of iPSCs remains low due to the effect of various barriers to reprogramming. There is also the risk of chromosomal instability and oncogenic transformation associated with the use of viral vectors, such as retrovirus and lentivirus, which deliver the reprogramming transcription factors by integration in the host cell genome. These challenges can hinder the therapeutic prospects and promise of iPSCs and their clinical applications. Consequently, extensive studies have been done to elucidate the molecular mechanism of reprogramming and novel strategies have been identified which help to improve the efficiency of reprogramming methods and overcome the safety concerns linked with iPSC generation. Distinct barriers and enhancers of reprogramming have been elucidated, and non-integrating reprogramming methods have been reported. Here, we summarize the progress and the recent advances that have been made over the last 10 years in the iPSC field, with emphasis on the molecular mechanism of reprogramming, strategies to improve the efficiency of reprogramming, characteristics and limitations of iPSCs, and the progress made in the applications of iPSCs in the field of disease modelling, drug discovery and regenerative medicine. Additionally, this study appraises the role of genomic editing technology in the generation of healthy iPSCs.
Do running speed and shoe cushioning influence impact loading and tibial shock in basketball players?
Authors: Lam Wing-Kai , Liebenberg Jacobus , Woo Jeonghyun , Park Sang-Kyoon , Yoon Suk-Hoon , Cheung Roy Tsz-Hei , Ryu Jiseon
Published: May 2018

Background

Tibial stress fracture (TSF) is a common injury in basketball players. This condition has been associated with high tibial shock and impact loading, which can be affected by running speed, footwear condition, and footstrike pattern. However, these relationships were established in runners but not in basketball players, with very little research done on impact loading and speed. Hence, this study compared tibial shock, impact loading, and foot strike pattern in basketball players running at different speeds with different shoe cushioning properties/performances.

Methods

Eighteen male collegiate basketball players performed straight running trials with different shoe cushioning (regular-, better-, and best-cushioning) and running speed conditions (3.0 m/s vs. 6.0 m/s) on a flat instrumented runway. Tri-axial accelerometer, force plate and motion capture system were used to determine tibial accelerations, vertical ground reaction forces and footstrike patterns in each condition, respectively. Comfort perception was indicated on a 150 mm Visual Analogue Scale. A 2 (speed) × 3 (footwear) repeated measures ANOVA was used to examine the main effects of shoe cushioning and running speeds.

Results

Greater tibial shock (P < 0.001; η2 = 0.80) and impact loading (P < 0.001; η2 = 0.73–0.87) were experienced at faster running speeds. Interestingly, shoes with regular-cushioning or best-cushioning resulted in greater tibial shock (P = 0.03; η2 = 0.39) and impact loading (P = 0.03; η2 = 0.38–0.68) than shoes with better-cushioning. Basketball players continued using a rearfoot strike during running, regardless of running speed and footwear cushioning conditions (P > 0.14; η2 = 0.13).

Discussion

There may be an optimal band of shoe cushioning for better protection against TSF. These findings may provide insights to formulate rehabilitation protocols for basketball players who are recovering from TSF.
Testing methods to mitigate Caribbean yellow-band disease on Orbicella faveolata
Authors: Randall Carly J. , Whitcher Elizabeth M. , Code Tessa , Pollock Clayton , Lundgren Ian , Hillis-Starr Zandy , Muller Erinn M.
Published: May 2018

Outbreaks of coral diseases continue to reduce global coral populations. In the Caribbean, yellow band is a severe and wide-spread disease that commonly affects corals of the Orbicella spp. complex, significantly impeding coral reproduction, and hindering the natural recovery of Orbicella spp. populations. Caribbean yellow-band disease (CYBD) lesions may be severe, and often result in the complete loss of coral tissue. The slow spread of CYBD, however, provides an opportunity to test methods to mitigate the disease. Here we report the results of in situ experiments, conducted within Buck Island Reef National Monument in St. Croix, USVI, to test the effectiveness of three techniques to minimize disease impact on Orbicella faveolata: (1) shading, (2) aspirating, and (3) chiseling a “firebreak” to isolate the lesion. Neither shading nor aspirating the diseased tissue significantly reduced CYBD tissue loss. However, chiseling reduced the rate and amount of tissue lost by 31%. While 30–40% of the chiseled lesions appeared to be free of disease signs 12–16 months after treatment, success significantly and steadily declined over 23 months, indicating a possible lack of long-term viability of the technique. The results of this study demonstrate that creating a “firebreak” between diseased and healthy-appearing tissue slows the spread of the disease and may prolong the life of O. faveolata colonies. The firebreak method yielded the best results of all the techniques tested, and also required the least amount of effort and resources. However, we do not recommend that this treatment alone be used for long-term disease mitigation. Rather, we propose that modifications of this and other treatment options be sought. The results also highlight the need for extended monitoring of CYBD after any treatment, due to the slow but variable rate and pattern of tissue loss in this disease.
Laparoscopic Resection of Subclinical Functioning Para-aortic Paraganglioma
Authors: Nakao Yousuke , Sakamoto Yasuo , Miyamoto Yuji , Kurashige Junji , Imamura Yu , Hiyoshi Yukiharu , Ida Satoshi , Iwagami Shiro , Baba Yoshifumi , Yoshida Naoya , Baba Hideo
Published: May 2018

Introduction:

Extra-adrenal pheochromocytomas (paragangliomas) are neuroendocrine tumors derived from extra-adrenal chromaffin cells. Although laparoscopic resection of adrenal pheochromocytomas is a common procedure, there are few reports of the use of this approach in extra-adrenal para-aortic paragangliomas. Here, we report the case of a patient with a subclinical functioning para-aortic paraganglioma that was successfully resected laparoscopically.

Case presentation:

A 58-year-old man was referred to our department for treatment of a para-aortic tumor after endoscopic submucosal dissection of early-stage colorectal cancer. Positron emission tomography-computed tomography showed abnormal accumulation by the para-aortic tumor. During its laparoscopic resection, the patient's blood pressure unexpectedly rose to over 180 mmHg, which suggested that the tumor was a paraganglioma. The diagnosis was confirmed by immunohistochemical staining, which showed chromogranin-positive cells forming a Zellballen pattern. The operation was successfully completed, and the patient's postoperative course was uneventful.

Conclusion:

Laparoscopic resection may be a suitable procedure for the treatment of retroperitoneal paraganglioma.
Actionable Structural Variant Detection via RNA-NGS and DNA-NGS in Patients With Advanced Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Owen Dwight , Ben-Shachar Rotem , Feliciano Josephine , Gai Lisa , Beauchamp Kyle A. , Rivers Zachary , Hockenberry Adam J. , Harrison Genelle , Guittar John , Catela Catarina , Parsons Jerod , Cohen Ezra , Sasser Kate , Nimeiri Halla , Guinney Justin , Patel Jyoti , Morgensztern Daniel
Published: November 2024

Importance

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines for non–small cell lung cancer suggest that RNA next-generation sequencing (NGS) may improve the detection of fusions and splicing variants compared with DNA-NGS alone. However, there is limited adoption of RNA-NGS in routine oncology clinical care today.

Objective

To analyze clinical evidence from a diverse cohort of patients with advanced lung adenocarcinoma and compare the detection of NCCN-recommended actionable structural variants (aSVs; fusions and splicing variants) via concurrent DNA and RNA-NGS vs DNA-NGS alone.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This multisite, retrospective cohort study examined patients sequenced between February 2021 and October 2023 within the deidentified, Tempus multimodal database, consisting of linked molecular and clinical data. Participants included patients with advanced lung adenocarcinoma and sufficient tissue sample quantities for both RNA-NGS and DNA-NGS testing.

Exposures

Received results from RNA-NGS and DNA-NGS solid-tissue profiling assays.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Detection rates of NCCN guideline–based structural variants (ALK, ROS1, RET and NTRK1/2/3 fusions, as well as MET exon 14 skipping splicing alterations) found uniquely by RNA-NGS.

Results

In the evaluable cohort of 5570 patients, median (IQR) age was 67.8 (61.3-75.4) years, and 2989 patients (53.7%) were female. The prevalence of actionable structural variants detected by either RNA-NGS or DNA-NGS was 8.8% (n = 491), with 86.7% (n = 426) of these detected by DNA-NGS. Concurrent RNA-NGS and DNA-NGS identified 15.3% more patients harboring aSVs compared with DNA-NGS alone (491 vs 426 patients, respectively), including 14.3% more patients harboring actionable fusions (376 vs 329 patients) and 18.6% more patients harboring MET exon 14 skipping alterations (115 vs 97 patients). There was no significant association between the assay used for aSV detection and aSV-targeted therapeutic adoption or clinical outcome. Emerging structural variants (eSVs) were found to have a combined prevalence to be 0.7%, with only 47.5% of eSVs detected by DNA-NGS.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study, the detection of structural variants via concurrent RNA-NGS and DNA-NGS was higher across multiple NCCN-guideline recommended biomarkers compared with DNA-NGS alone, suggesting that RNA-NGS should be routinely implemented in the care of patients with advanced NSCLC.
Food Insecurity Among LGBQ+ Veterans
Authors: Haigh Sylvia V. , Halladay Christopher W. , Kauth Michael R. , Going Christine , Cohen Alicia J.
Published: November 2024

Importance

Food insecurity is associated with numerous adverse health outcomes. Little is known about the prevalence of and risks for food insecurity among veterans identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, and similar (LGBQ+), a population facing unique social barriers and medical comorbidities.

Objective

To examine food insecurity and potential risk factors among LGBQ+ veterans.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective, cross-sectional study used administrative data from all US Veterans Health Administration (VHA) facilities nationally. Participants included veterans screened for food insecurity between March 1, 2021, and August 31, 2023.

Exposure

Positive response to food insecurity screening administered in VHA facilities as part of routine clinical care.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Prevalence of and sociodemographic, clinical, and psychosocial factors associated with food insecurity among veterans identifying as LGBQ+ or heterosexual and those with “don’t know” responses regarding their sexual orientation.

Results

Of 3 580 148 veterans screened, the mean (SD) age was 61.6 (0.4) years; 3 192 507 (89.2%) were assigned male sex at birth. A total of 83 292 veterans (2.3%) identified as LGBQ+, and 10 183 (0.3%) had “don’t know” responses. LGBQ+ veterans (5352 [6.4%]) and veterans with “don’t know” responses (635 [6.2%]) were more than twice as likely as heterosexual veterans (90 426 [2.6%]) to have positive screen results for food insecurity. While risk factors for food insecurity were similar for veterans across sexual orientation groups, LGBQ+ veterans had higher rates of several risk factors compared with heterosexual veterans, including age younger than 45 years (45.3% vs 19.5%), female sex assigned at birth (44.1% vs 10.0%), being in a minoritized racial or ethnic group (34.7% vs 29.8%), unmarried or unpartnered status (69.1% vs 39.7%), low income (16.4% vs 14.9%), homelessness or housing instability (10.3% vs 5.4%), anxiety (7.7% vs 4.3%), depression (31.1% vs 19.3%), suicidality (3.6% vs 1.4%), posttraumatic stress disorder (42.2% vs 30.2%), substance use disorder (13.1% vs 9.0%), military sexual trauma (24.0% vs 5.4%), and recent intimate partner violence (2.6% vs 1.4%).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of veterans screened for food insecurity, LGBQ+ veterans and those with “don’t know” responses for sexual orientation experienced food insecurity at nearly 2.5 times the rate of heterosexual veterans. While risk factors for food insecurity were similar across groups, LGBQ+ veterans faced a higher prevalence of particular risks, including homelessness and several mental health and trauma-related comorbidities. Future work should examine targeted screening and interventions tailored to identifying and addressing food insecurity in this population, given their increased vulnerability and burden of food insecurity.
Remembering the Physician’s Humanity—Physicians Are Humans Too
Authors: Anderson Noriko
Published: November 2024

This essay describes the microaggressions and burnout faced by physicians and the importance of boundaries to preserve physicians’ humanity and well-being.
Cold‐Sprayed Boron‐Nitride‐Nanotube‐Reinforced Aluminum Matrix Composites with Improved Wear Resistance and Radiation Shielding
Authors: John Denny , Sukumaran Abhijith Kunneparambil , Mohammed Sohail Mazher Ali Khan , Orikasa Kazue , Lou Lihua , Nisar Ambreen , Paul Tanaji , Lama Anil , Park Cheol , Chu Sang‐Hyon , Agarwal Arvind
Published: November 2024

In this study, the influence of cold‐spray processing on the integration of 1D boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) into aluminum (Al) matrix composite deposits is delved into. Successful deposition of Al‐BNNT composite is achieved by pre‐spray dispersion of BNNTs in Al powder via wet mixing aided by ultrasonication. Pure Al powder deposition at 380 °C is limited by nozzle clogging, restricting the deposit thickness to 0.2 mm, while the presence of BNNTs enables longer spraying due to nozzle cleaning and damping by hard BNNTs, allowing thicker Al‐BNNT deposits of about 2 mm. Microstructural analysis reveals severely deformed Al splats decorated with a uniformly distributed network of BNNTs at the intersplat boundaries, reducing the porosity from 8% to 4% and increasing the splat flattening by 40%. Tribological testing demonstrates resistance of BNNTs to normal force, resulting in a 21% improvement in coefficient of friction and a 65% reduction in wear volume in the Al‐BNNT composite. Additionally, incorporating 3 vol.% BNNTs enhances the neutron radiation shielding by 35%. These improvements in the composites are attributed to reduced porosity and the inherent properties of BNNTs, such as high strength, the ability to produce tribofilm lubrication during dry sliding wear, and their high neutron absorption cross‐sectional area.
A Programmable Oral Nanomotor Microcapsule for the Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Han Jingwen , Ye Jiamin , Shi Jiacheng , Fan Yueyue , Yuan Xue , Li Ruiyan , Niu Gaoli , Abubakar Muhammad , Kang Yong , Ji Xiaoyuan
Published: November 2024

Given the unique anatomy and location of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), oral pharmacological treatment is the mainstay for managing IBD because of its convenience and direct accessibility to the gastrointestinal tract. However, efficient delivery systems must be designed to navigate the harsh gastrointestinal environment during application. Here, an innovative oral drug delivery system was proposed using nanomotor (NM)‐loaded soluble microcapsules for treating IBD. MnO2‐Au‐mSiO2 NMs incorporate partially encapsulated MnO2 antennas that convert reactive oxygen species into oxygen, autonomously propelling the NMs. Astaxanthin (AST), known for its anti‐inflammatory properties, is loaded into the mesoporous silica (mSiO2) of NMs (AST@NMs). AST effectively reduces inflammation and shifts macrophages from a proinflammatory (M1) phenotype to an anti‐inflammatory (M2) phenotype. To protect the nanomotors from harsh digestive conditions and achieve intestinal‐responsive release, using photocurable 3D printing, we fabricated enteric‐coated oral microcapsules (MCs). Additionally, to prevent leakage of AST@NMs, a calcium alginate shell was cured in situ on the surface of the microcapsules (AST@NMs@MCs). In vitro and in vivo, AST@NMs@MCs effectively reduced inflammation, repaired the intestinal barrier, and modulated the gut microbiota. These findings underscore the protective effects of the microcapsules on AST@NM, highlighting their potential as a promising strategy for treating colitis.
Engineering Co Single Atoms in Ultrathin BiOCl Nanosheets for Boosted CO2 Photoreduction
Authors: Zhao Lulu , Hou Huilin , Wang Shuo , Wang Lin , Yang Yang , Bowen Chris R. , Wang Jinguo , Liao Ziyi , Yang Dongjiang , Yan Ruifang , Yang Weiyou
Published: November 2024

Despite the development of a range of photocatalysts for CO2 reduction, the practical applications are significantly limited by low conversion efficiencies and their reliance on sacrificial agents, which are rooted in thermodynamic and kinetic challenges related to CO2 conversion. Here, the engineering of Co single atoms in ultrathin single‐crystal BiOCl nanosheets for boosted photocatalytic CO2 reduction is reported. The engineering of Co atoms modulates the distribution of photogenerated charges at the catalyst surface, controlling key surface reaction dynamics and suppressing surface electron‐hole recombination. This modulation also improves light absorption and enhances CO2 adsorption and activation, leading to more efficient surface reactions. Notably, CO2 is stably adsorbed onto the (001) face of BiOCl through a Bi‐O‐C(= O)‐Co‐O coordination unit, which lowers the activation energy for CO2 reduction and reduces the formation energy of COOH− intermediates. As a result, the BiOCl photocatalysts achieve a CO formation rate of 183.9 µmol g−1 h−1, when irradiated with a 300 W Xe lamp without cocatalysts or sacrificial agents. It represents an ≈13‐fold increase compared to that of pristine BiOCl, and surpasses most reported Bi‐based photocatalysts to date. Current work provides valuable insights into engineering of single atoms for developing advanced CO2‐reduction photocatalysts.
Minimalist Adjuvant‐Free Nano‐Vaccine Based on Antigen Self‐Assembled Amyloid‐Like Fibrils to Induce Potent Immune Response
Authors: Wang Xiang , Xia Haiyang , Li Tiantian , Zuo Qinhua , Wang Zhen , Yan Kangjian , Xu Zejun , Xue Wei , Sun Guodong , Liu Zonghua , Zhang Yi
Published: November 2024

The development of cancer vaccines is at the forefront of cancer immunotherapy. Most existing strategies to induce an efficient anti‐tumor immune response rely on molecular adjuvants and the incorporation of complex synthetic vectors into vaccine formulations. In contrast, this study introduces a one‐step engineering technique to assemble the model antigen, Ovalbumin (OVA), into amyloid aggregates, leveraging biomimetic folding and aggregation to create non‐fibrillar OVA globular aggregates and OVA amyloid‐like fibrils as single‐component, adjuvant‐free vaccines. Notably, the OVA amyloid‐like fibrils induced stronger immune responses compared to the native form, as evidenced by robust humoral immune reactions and the establishment of immune memory. These enhanced responses can be attributed to the self‐adjuvant effect of the unique assembled structure, which preserves antigenic epitopes, improves antigen stability, facilitates antigen internalization, prolongs retention at the injection site, enhances antigen trafficking to the lymphoid organs, and promotes increased secretion of antibodies and cytokines. Furthermore, the efficacy of the vaccine was validated in a high OVA‐expressing tumor model, demonstrating the potential of OVA amyloid‐like fibrils as an effective vaccine for cancer immunoprevention. This minimalist self‐adjuvant vaccine strategy holds promising implications for cancer immunotherapy and can inform the design of other protein antigen‐based vaccines.
Leveraging Organ‐on‐Chip Models to Investigate Host–Microbiota Dynamics and Targeted Therapies for Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Kaden Tim , Alonso‐Román Raquel , Stallhofer Johannes , Gresnigt Mark S. , Hube Bernhard , Mosig Alexander S.
Published: November 2024

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an idiopathic gastrointestinal disease with drastically increasing incidence rates. Due to its multifactorial etiology, a precise investigation of the pathogenesis is extremely difficult. Although reductionist cell culture models and more complex disease models in animals have clarified the understanding of individual disease mechanisms and contributing factors of IBD in the past, it remains challenging to bridge research and clinical practice. Conventional 2D cell culture models cannot replicate complex host–microbiota interactions and stable long‐term microbial culture. Further, extrapolating data from animal models to patients remains challenging due to genetic and environmental diversity leading to differences in immune responses. Human intestine organ‐on‐chip (OoC) models have emerged as an alternative in vitro model approach to investigate IBD. OoC models not only recapitulate the human intestinal microenvironment more accurately than 2D cultures yet may also be advantageous for the identification of important disease‐driving factors and pharmacological interventions targets due to the possibility of emulating different complexities. The predispositions and biological hallmarks of IBD focusing on host–microbiota interactions at the intestinal mucosal barrier are elucidated here. Additionally, the potential of OoCs to explore microbiota‐related therapies and personalized medicine for IBD treatment is discussed.
Dopaminergic Axon Tracts Within a Hyaluronic Acid Hydrogel Encasement to Restore the Nigrostriatal Pathway
Authors: Gordián‐Vélez Wisberty J. , Browne Kevin D. , Galarraga Jonathan H. , Chouhan Dimple , Duda John E. , España Rodrigo A. , Chen H. Isaac , Burdick Jason A. , Cullen D. Kacy
Published: November 2024

Parkinson's disease is characterized by motor deficits emerging from insufficient dopamine in the striatum after degeneration of dopaminergic neurons and their long‐projecting axons comprising the nigrostriatal pathway. To address this, a tissue‐engineered nigrostriatal pathway (TE‐NSP) featuring a tubular hydrogel with a collagen/laminin core that encases aggregated dopaminergic neurons and their axonal tracts is developed. This engineered microtissue can be implanted to replace neurons and axons with fidelity to the lost pathway and thus may provide dopamine according to feedback from host circuitry. While TE‐NSPs have traditionally been fabricated with agarose, here a hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogel is utilized to have a more bioactive encasement while expanding control over physical and biochemical properties. Using rat ventral midbrain neurons, it is found that TE‐NSPs exhibited improved neurite growth with HA relative to agarose, with no differences in electrically‐evoked dopamine release. When transplanted, HA hydrogels reduced average host neuron loss and inflammation around the implant compared to agarose, and TE‐NSP neurons and axonal tracts survived for at least 2 weeks to structurally emulate the lost pathway. This study represents an innovative use of HA hydrogels for neuroregenerative medicine and enables future studies expanding the control and functionality of TE‐NSPs.
Self‐Reporting Multiple Microscopic Stresses Through Tunable Microcapsule Arrays
Authors: Hu Minghan , Ma Zhongqi , Kim Minsoo , Kim Donghoon , Ye Suiying , Pané Salvador , Bao Yinyin , Style Robert W. , Isa Lucio
Published: November 2024

Self‐reporting materials have emerged as a promising tool for real‐time monitoring of stress and damage in structural materials. When critical stress is applied to these materials, an optical response is triggered – for example by dye release, or molecular cleavage. A key challenge is to extend these systems to respond to multiple different stress levels. To achieve this, a novel microcapsule‐based assembly strategy is presented. Microfluidic synthesis is used to create microcapsules that release dye at a precise level of applied force. Subsequently, capillary assembly is used to combine microcapsules with different stress‐responsiveness and different fluorescent dyes into chains, which are uniformly patterned into regular arrays, and embed these into the self‐reporting materials. Through indentation experiments, it is shown that these materials can distinguish and record spatially resolved local stresses based on the fluorescence emitted upon microcapsule rupture. Crucially, the technique's accuracy is significantly improved when microcapsules are spatially organized within the material. This versatile technique can be applied to a range of different materials, via the use of thin coatings containing the regularly patterned microcapsule chains.
Dragonfly‐Inspired Compound Eye Lens with Biomimetic Structural Design
Authors: Takemura Kenshin , Motomura Taisei , Iwasaki Wataru , Morita Nobutomo , Kikunaga Kazuya
Published: November 2024

Compound eye biomimetics are extensively studied owing to their high level of functionality. However, optimizing material‐dependent parameters, such as refractive index, is essential for maximizing lens function. Therefore, metal films are deposited on Pantala flavescens compound eyes using a magnetic mirror magnetron cathode, which deposits films at low temperatures without plasma impingement. By increasing the thickness of the film on the compound eye surface, a compound eye mold is successfully fabricated with high heat tolerance. Lens fabrication is achieved using a high‐temperature‐curable resin. The resulting lens comprises numerous uniformly shaped functional units. This method offers a highly reproducible lens‐pouring molding technique using various materials, marking a significant advancement in developing imaging devices and sensors that accurately replicate the functionalities of dragonfly eyes.
Molecular Lineages and Spatial Distributions of Subplate Neurons in the Human Fetal Cerebral Cortex
Authors: Guo Xueyu , Lee Trevor , Sun Jason , Sun Julianne , Cai Wenjie , Yang Qingwei , Sun Tao
Published: November 2024

The expansion of neural progenitors and production of distinct neurons are crucial for architectural assembly and formation of connectivity in human brains. Subplate neurons (SPNs) are among the firstborn neurons in the human fetal cerebral cortex, and play a critical role in establishing intra‐ and extracortical connections. However, little is known about SPN origin and developmental lineages. In this study, spatial landscapes and molecular trajectories of SPNs in the human fetal cortices from gestational weeks (GW) 10 to 25 are created by performing spatial transcriptomics and single‐cell RNA sequencing. Genes known to be evolutionarily human‐specific and genes associated with extracellular matrices (ECMs) are found to maintain stable proportions of subplate neurons among other neuronal types. Enriched ECM gene expression in SPNs varies in distinct cortical regions, with the highest level in the frontal lobe of human fetal brains. This study reveals molecular origin and lineage specification of subplate neurons in the human fetal cerebral cortices, and highlights underpinnings of SPNs to cortical neurogenesis and early structural folding.
Machine Learning Enabled High‐Throughput Screening of 2D Ultrawide Bandgap Semiconductors for Flexible Resistive Materials
Authors: Chen Chi , Wang Hao , Wan Houzhao , Sun Dan
Published: November 2024

The 2D ultrawide bandgap (UWBG) semiconductors have attracted great attentions for the next generation of electronics and optoelectronics, owing to their superiority on material flexibility, device stability, and power consumption. However, few 2D UWBG semiconductors have been discovered, impeding their prosperous developments and widespread applications. Here, a high‐throughput workflow is constructed to screen 2D UWBG semiconductors assisted by machine learning, and 507 potential candidates are obtained. Moreover, by learning, predicting, and screening Young's modulus and Poisson's ratio, 31 flexible 2D UWBG semiconductors are identified. Then the generation and the diffusion of anion vacancies, as well as the corresponding electronic properties are investigated by using the first‐principles calculations, and 3 of them are demonstrated as the most promising candidates for the flexible resistive materials. The facile interface tunneling and the increased material conductance caused by the anion vacancies will contribute to the transition from high resistive state to low resistive state. This work provides an efficient high‐throughput screening protocol to enrich the family of 2D UWBG semiconductors and is expected to foster their practical applications.