bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Levelized profits for residential PV-battery systems and the role of regulatory and fiscal aspects in Germany
Authors: Kuckshinrichs Wilhelm , Ball Christopher Stephen , Aniello Gianmarco
Published: May 2023

Background

The levelized cost of electricity (LCOE), expressing the price per unit that a technology must receive over its lifetime to break even, is a useful indicator, but insufficient for a comprehensive investment appraisal of PV-battery (PV-BES) projects. For household PV-BES systems, aimed at prosumers in the German context, our paper seeks to look at the revenue side in addition to the costs side of the investment decision. We extend the LROE (levelized revenue of electricity) to consider the impact of different fiscal options available to households seeking to install PV-BES systems. From this, we calculate the levelized profit of electricity (LPOE), linking the cost-focused and revenue-focused perspectives of prosumers facing investment options. We calculate the LPOE for six different fiscal options available to prosumers, four household types with different socio-economic characteristics and for different sizes of PV-BES systems.

Results

In terms of preliminary results, we identify the most advantageous fiscal option and the drivers of LPOE in relation to PV-BES systems in Germany. We find that the switching from the standard to small business tax setup is the optimal fiscal option for all households and all technology combinations, but the optimal income tax decision depends on the present value of revenues compared to tax deductibles. The LPOE is particularly sensitive to changes in CAPEX and retail electricity prices, with the FiT rate, VAT rate and Income Tax rate being somewhat influential. From an LPOE perspective, self-consumption is incentivized through lower FiT rates and higher electricity prices, whereas the abolition of the EEG contribution and low FiT rate adversely affect the LPOE of different options. Stand-alone PV remains the most attractive option, with bundles with storage showing weaker profitability performance.

Conclusions

LPOE complements the LCOE and LROE indicators and offers a comprehensive investment analysis, integrating fiscal considerations. Moreover, it offers greater guidance as to the relative attractiveness of different technology configurations and technology sizing. Mechanisms could be implemented to enhance the profitability of residential PV-BES systems in line with energy policy objectives.
Genetic basis of STEM occupational choice and regional economic performance: a UK biobank genome-wide association study
Authors: Zhu Chen , Zhao Qiran , He Jianbo , Böckerman Petri , Luo Siyang , Chen Qihui
Published: May 2023

Background

Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professionals are regarded as the highly skilled labor force that fosters economic productivity, enterprise innovation, and international competitiveness of a country. This study aims to understand the genetic predisposition to STEM occupations and investigate its associations with regional economic performance. We conducted a genome-wide association study on the occupational choice of STEM jobs based on a sample of 178,976 participants from the UK Biobank database.

Results

We identified two genetic loci significantly associated with participants’ STEM job choices: rs10048736 on chromosome 2 and rs12903858 on chromosome 15. The SNP heritability of STEM occupations was estimated to be 4.2%. We also found phenotypic and genetic evidence of assortative mating in STEM occupations. At the local authority level, we found that the average polygenic score of STEM is significantly and robustly associated with several metrics of regional economic performance.

Conclusions

The current study expands our knowledge of the genetic basis of occupational choice and potential regional disparities in socioeconomic developments.
SARS-Cov-2 infection and neuropathological findings: a report of 18 cases and review of the literature
Authors: Lebrun Laetitia , Absil Lara , Remmelink Myriam , De Mendonça Ricardo , D’Haene Nicky , Gaspard Nicolas , Rusu Stefan , Racu Marie-Lucie , Collin Amandine , Allard Justine , Zindy Egor , Schiavo Andrea Alex , De Clercq Sarah , De Witte Olivier , Decaestecker Christine , Lopes Maria-Beatriz , Salmon Isabelle
Published: May 2023

Introduction

COVID-19-infected patients harbour neurological symptoms such as stroke and anosmia, leading to the hypothesis that there is direct invasion of the central nervous system (CNS) by SARS-CoV-2. Several studies have reported the neuropathological examination of brain samples from patients who died from COVID-19. However, there is still sparse evidence of virus replication in the human brain, suggesting that neurologic symptoms could be related to mechanisms other than CNS infection by the virus. Our objective was to provide an extensive review of the literature on the neuropathological findings of postmortem brain samples from patients who died from COVID-19 and to report our own experience with 18 postmortem brain samples.

Material and methods

We used microscopic examination, immunohistochemistry (using two different antibodies) and PCR-based techniques to describe the neuropathological findings and the presence of SARS-CoV-2 virus in postmortem brain samples. For comparison, similar techniques (IHC and PCR) were applied to the lung tissue samples for each patient from our cohort. The systematic literature review was conducted from the beginning of the pandemic in 2019 until June 1st, 2022.

Results

In our cohort, the most common neuropathological findings were perivascular haemosiderin-laden macrophages and hypoxic-ischaemic changes in neurons, which were found in all cases (n = 18). Only one brain tissue sample harboured SARS-CoV-2 viral spike and nucleocapsid protein expression, while all brain cases harboured SARS-CoV-2 RNA positivity by PCR. A colocalization immunohistochemistry study revealed that SARS-CoV-2 antigens could be located in brain perivascular macrophages.

The literature review highlighted that the most frequent neuropathological findings were ischaemic and haemorrhagic lesions, including hypoxic/ischaemic alterations. However, few studies have confirmed the presence of SARS-CoV-2 antigens in brain tissue samples.

Conclusion

This study highlighted the lack of specific neuropathological alterations in COVID-19-infected patients. There is still no evidence of neurotropism for SARS-CoV-2 in our cohort or in the literature.
A comprehensive evaluation of the development degree and internal impact factors of desiccation cracking in the Sanxingdui archaeological site
Authors: Yao Xue , Zhao Fan
Published: May 2023

Desiccation cracking is a common deterioration that occurs in archaeological excavation sites and greatly threatens long-term preservation. The aim of this research is to comprehensively evaluate the development degree of desiccation cracking (DOC) and explore the relationships between soil properties and its development. Seven indicators are selected to comprehensively describe the DOC, and principal component analysis (PCA) is applied to calculate the weight of each indicator. Linear correlation analysis (LCA) is adopted to calculate the correlations of six soil properties and DOC. The results showed that each indicator has an influence on the DOC. The clay particle content, clay mineral content, and plasticity index showed a positive correlation with the DOC, and the moisture content showed a negative correlation. This research proposed a comprehensive evaluation method to describe the development degree of deterioration at the earthen site, and the results revealed the internal factors influencing desiccation cracking from a qualitative perspective, which can lay a foundation for further conservation research.
Impact of essential oils on seed quality and seed-borne pathogens of Althea officinalis seeds of different ages
Authors: Terzić Dragan , Tabaković Marijenka , Oro Violeta , Poštić Dobrivoj , Štrbanović Ratibor , Filipović Vladimir , Stanisavljević Rade
Published: May 2023

Background

The cultivation of medicinal plants is a promising alternative to overcoming problems in the overharvesting of wild plants and ecosystem degradation. Cultivation depends upon two major factors: seed quality and the presence of seed-borne pathogens. Organic production of marshmallow plants (Altheaofficinalis L.) does not allow for the use of conventional pesticides. This study aimed to find an environmentally safe solution and the equilibrium between seed germination and the presence of fungal pathogens. The study was performed on a population of marshmallows which were cultivated for a period of 3 years (2018–2020) in Pančevo, The Republic of Serbia. The following six essential oils: Origanumvulgare L.,Cinnamomumcassia Presl.,Ocimumbasilicum L.,Carumcarvi L.,Menthapiperita L.,Lavandulaangustifolia Mill. at five concentrations (1%, 0.5%, 0.2%, 0.02%, 0.002%) were used for seed treatment along with water and PEG-40 (emulsifier) as controls. Germination, dormant seeds, dead seeds, abnormal seedlings and the presence of seed-borne pathogens were determined under laboratory conditions.

Results

Among the aforementioned treatments using oregano, cinnamon, basil, caraway, mint, and lavender essential oils, the most effective treatment resulted with lavender essential oil at a concentration of 0.02% in 3-year-old seeds. The highest values for seed germination and dead seeds were 46% and 20% in 3-year-old seeds, respectively. This treatment increased seed germination by 13%, and seedling growth i.e., the growth of seedling stems and radicles by 24–35%, respectively. It also reduced the presence of seed-borne fungal pathogens from 53 to 100%.

Conclusions

The results revealed that an increase in seed germination rate and simultaneous reduction in seed-borne fungal infection was achieved with the lavender essential oil seed treatments. This is the first discovery of the stimulating effect of lavender essential oil on seed quality parameters. Furthermore, the study demonstrates its potential application in seed processing in the organic production of marshmallow plants.

Graphical Abstract
Whole genome level analysis of the DEATH protein superfamily in sheep (Ovis aries) and their coordination relationship in regulating lactation
Authors: Gai Zhongchao , Hu Songhao , He Yujiao , Gong Guoli , Zhao Jieqiong
Published: May 2023

Background

Sheep milk is a nutritional and health-promoting food source for humans. The DEATH superfamily is a conserved protein family, and some of its members are closely related to lactation. Systematic studies of the members of the DEATH superfamily are important for further understanding its functions in the mammary gland during lactation; however, there studies are currently lacking.

Results

Herein, 74 members of the DEATH superfamily were identified in sheep, and phylogenetic analyses indicated that four subfamilies were strongly correlated in evolution. The Ka/Ks calculations demonstrated that negative selection was the primary pressure acting on DEATH members; however, the immune-related gene IFI203 was undergoing strong positive selection in sheep. Furthermore, in the late pregnancy and lactation period, these DEATH genes exhibited similar expression patterns under different nutritional conditions in the mammary gland, and four subfamilies were positively correlated in expression patterns. Additionally, half or more DEATH genes were upregulated in the lactation period, which implied their crucial roles in the lactation of sheep.

Conclusions

The current research contributes to a better understanding of the evolutionary characteristics of the DEATH superfamily and their roles in sheep lactation, and it also provides potential target genes for the molecular breeding of dairy sheep.

Graphical Abstract
Sulfur reduction distillation of sulfides and verification of the effect of sulfur isotopic fractionation during pretreatment
Authors: Jo Jaeguk , Yamanaka Toshiro , Chiba Hitoshi , Shin Dongbok
Published: May 2023

Toxic gases can be emitted when sulfides form compounds with heavy metals; thus, a series of pretreatments are required prior to the analysis of sulfur isotope ratios to remove unnecessary elements. In addition, it is necessary to verify the effect of sulfur isotope fractionation caused by the plurality of sulfides comprising different sulfide species during the pretreatment process. In this study, H2S(gas) was extracted from mixed sulfides comprising pyrite and galena and reacted with mixed acids (i.e., HCl + HI + H3PO2) at 200 °C, in sealed conditions filled with N2. Subsequently, CdS(s) was precipitated from the reaction with H2S(gas) in a trap filled with Cd(CH3COO)2(aq). CdS(s) was then ionized to SO42−(aq) after reacting with H2O2(l), followed by the addition of BaCl2(l) to precipitate BaSO4(s). The sulfur isotope values of the products (barite: av. 5.9‰) were lower than those of the reactants (sulfides: av. 6.9‰); this is attributed to the preferential fractionation of galena with a low isotope ratio when converting sulfide to H2S(gas). Therefore, in the pretreatment process for the sulfur isotope analysis of a sample composed of a sulfide mixture, the effect of isotope fractionation between sulfur species should be considered.
A rare case of pyosalpinx in adolescent girl with Hirschsprung’s disease who underwent transvaginal ultrasound-guided drainage
Authors: Sugai Yu , Kinoshita Yoshiaki , Kobayashi Takashi , Takahashi Yoshiaki , Arai Yuhki , Ohyama Toshiyuki , Yokota Naoki , Takano Shoichi , Kobayashi Akiko
Published: May 2023

Background

Hydrosalpinx and pyosalpinx are rare gynecologic problems during adolescence, especially in girls without a history of sexual activity. They are even rarer in women with Hirschsprung’s disease (HD). We herein report a case of pyosalpinx in an adolescent girl with HD treated by transvaginal ultrasound-guided drainage.

Case presentation

The present patient was a 12-year-old girl (weight 83 kg; height 159 cm; body mass index 32.8 kg/m2). She had undergone five laparotomies for long-segment HD by 2 years. Her menarche had occurred at 10 years. She was admitted with lower abdominal and anal pain. Computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and transvaginal ultrasound showed left pyosalpinx and abdominal abscess. Surgical drainage was necessary; however, she had a history of polysurgery and was severely obese, so laparotomy was considered to carry a high risk. Transvaginal ultrasound was deemed more likely to reach the abscess safely. Therefore, she was treated with transvaginal ultrasound-guided drainage by a gynecologist skilled in the procedure. She was discharged home after 52 days. One year and nine months after discharge, there was no reformation of either the abscess or pyosalpinx.

Conclusions

Adolescent girls with HD are at risk of developing hydrosalpinx. Depending on the defecation status, pyosalpinx may also develop. As a less-invasive surgical treatment, transvaginal ultrasound-guided drainage can avoid laparotomy. Collaboration with a gynecologist is essential for the diagnosis and treatment of this clinical condition. Pediatric surgeons should communicate with gynecologists for such cases beginning around puberty for continuous follow-up.
Bionic natural small molecule co-assemblies towards targeted and synergistic Chemo/PDT/CDT
Authors: Fu Shiyao , Wang Mingao , Li Bin , Li Xu , Cheng Jianjun , Zhao Haitian , Zhang Hua , Dong Aijun , Lu Weihong , Yang Xin
Published: May 2023

Background

Multi-component nano-delivery systems based on chemotherapy (chemo)- photodynamic therapy (PDT)- chemodynamic therapy (CDT) have gained increased attention as a promising strategy to improve clinical outcomes in cancer treatment. However, there remains a challenge in developing biodegradable, biocompatible, less toxic, yet highly efficient multicomponent nanobased drug delivery systems (DDS). Here, our study presents the screening and development of a novel DDS based on co-assemblies natural small molecule (NSMs). These molecules (oleanolic acid, and betulinic acid) are combined with photosensitizers Chlorine6 (Ce6) and Cu
2+
that are encapsulated by tumor cell membranes. This nanocarrier encapsulated in tumor cell membranes achieved good tumor targeting and a significant improvement in tumor accumulation.

Methods

A reprecipitation method was used to prepare the co-assembled nanocarrier, followed by the introduction of Cu
2 +
 into the DDS (OABACe6 NPs). Then, by wrapping the surface of NPs with the cell membranes of 4T1 which is a kind of mouse breast cancer cells (CM@OABACe6/Cu NPs). and analysis of its structure and size distribution with UV–Vis, XPS, FT-IR, SEM, TEM, and DLS. The synergistic effects of in vitro chemotherapy, CDT and PDT and targeting were also validated by cellular and animal studies.

Results

It was shown that CM@OABACe6/Cu NPs achieved good tumor targeting and a significant improvement in tumor accumulation. In the composite nano-assembly, the NSMs work together with the Ce6 to provide effective and safe chemo and PDT. Moreover, the effect of reduced PDT due to the depletion of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by excess glutathione (GSH) in the tumor can be counteracted when Cu
2 +
 is introduced. More importantly, it also confers CDT through a Fenton-like catalytic reaction with H
2
O overexpressed at the tumor site.

Conclusions

By constructing CM@OABACe6/Cu NPs with homologous targeting, we create a triple synergistic platform for cancer therapy using PDT, chemo, and CDT. We propose here a novel combinatorial strategy for designing more naturally co-assembled small molecules, especially for the development of multifunctional synergistic therapies that utilize NSMs.
The benefit of vegetarian diets for reducing blood pressure in Taiwan: a historically prospective cohort study
Authors: Feng Hsin-Pei , Yu Pi-Ching , Huang Shi-Hao , Huang Yao-Ching , Chen Chin Fu , Sun Chien-An , Wang Bill-Long , Chien Wu-Chien , Chiang Chun-Hsien
Published: May 2023

Objective

Past vegetarians research has often found that they have lower blood pressure (BP). Effects may include their lower BMI and higher intake levels of fruit and vegetables. Besides, the study pursues to extend this evidence in a diverse population containing vegans, lacto-ovo vegetarians and omnivores.

Design

The study analyzed data on five hundred vigorous individuals aged 20 years or older from a standard medical screening program and provided validated questionnaire. Criteria were established for vegan, lacto-ovo vegetarian, partial vegetarian and omnivorous dietary patterns.

Setting

Health screening programs were conducted at a standard medical screening program in Taiwan between 2006 and 2017. Dietary data were gathered by self-administered questionnaire.

Subjects

Five hundred Taiwanese subjects representing the cohort.

Results

Multiple regression analyses confirmed that the vegan vegetarians had lower systolic and diastolic BP (mmHg) than omnivorous Taiwanese (β =  − 6.8, p < 0.05 and β =  − 6.9, p < 0.001). Findings for lacto-ovo vegetarians (β =  − 9.1, p < 0.001 and β =  − 5.8, p < 0.001) were similar. The vegetarians were also less likely to be using antihypertensive medications. Defining hypertension as systolic BP > 139 mmHg or diastolic BP > 89 mmHg or routine of antihypertensive medications, the odds ratio of hypertension compared with omnivores was 0.37 (95% CI = 0.19–0.74), 0.57 (95% CI = 0.36–0.92) and 0.92 (95% CI = 0.50–1.70), respectively, for vegans, lacto-ovo vegetarians and partial vegetarians. Results were reduced after adjustment for BMI.

Conclusions

The study concludes from this relatively large study that vegetarians, especially vegans, with otherwise diverse characteristics but stable diets, do have lower systolic and diastolic BP and less hypertension than omnivores.
Sustainable small ports: performance assessment tool for management, responsibility, impact, and self-monitoring
Authors: Brunila Olli-Pekka , Kunnaala-Hyrkki Vappu , Inkinen Tommi
Published: May 2023

This paper proposes a conceptual performance assessment tool for evaluating the environmental performance in small seaports. The developed tool is based and built based on a literature review. Ports, depending on their size, tend to have several sustainability and environmental management needs. However, especially small or cargo specialized ports do not often have sufficient resources to implement environmental effectiveness enhancing tools, even if they need them. This paper reviews international quality and environmental management tools, standards, and selected frameworks. These include International Organization for Standardization standards, and Global Reporting Initiative and Corporate Social Responsibility concepts. Because checklist type self-diagnosis solutions are the easiest to adopt, and universally most applicable, the proposed environmental performance measurement tool has four specific categories: (1) environmental management; (2) responsibility; (3) impact assessment; and (4) self-monitoring. The proposed tool allows the ports to assess whether their environmental management practices are comparable to more expensive standards and certificates. The paper concludes with a discussion on the limitations and challenges related to different port types and their specific needs.
Neuroinflammation in Alzheimer’s disease: microglial signature and their relevance to disease
Authors: Sobue Akira , Komine Okiru , Yamanaka Koji
Published: May 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia, pathologically characterized by senile plaques and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs), resulting in neurodegeneration. Neuroinflammation, defined as the activation of glial cells such as microglia and astrocytes, is observed surrounding senile plaques and affected neurons in AD. Recently conducted genome-wide association studies (GWAS) indicate that a large section of identified AD risk genes are involved in immune responses and are enriched in microglia. Microglia are innate immune cells in the central nervous system (CNS), which are involved in immune surveillance and maintenance of homeostasis in the CNS. Recently, a novel subpopulation of activated microglia named as disease-associated microglia (DAM), also known as activated response microglia (ARM) or microglial neurodegenerative phenotype (MGnD), was identified in AD model mice. These microglia closely associate with β-amyloid (Aβ) plaques and exhibit characteristic gene expression profiles accompanied with reduced expressions of homeostatic microglial genes. However, it remains unclear whether decreased homeostatic microglia functions or increased DAM/ARM/MGnD functions correlate with the degree of neuronal loss in AD. To translate the results of rodent studies to human AD, precuneus, the brain region vulnerable to β-amyloid accumulation in preclinical AD, is of high interest, as it can provide novel insights into the mechanisms of microglia response to Aβ in early AD. In this study, we performed comparative analyses of gene expression profiles of microglia among three representative neurodegenerative mouse models and the human precunei with early AD pathology. We proceeded to evaluate the identified genes as potential therapeutic targets for AD. We believe that our findings will provide important resources to better understand the role of glial dysfunction in AD.
A comprehensive review on cement-based batteries and their performance parameters
Authors: Sundaramoorthi Arjun , Thangaraj Palanisamy
Published: May 2023

Cement-based battery is a new area of research that is gaining popularity with the evolving idea of developing multifunctional and smart building solutions. This is deemed as a concept stirring revolution, because of the ability of the buildings to store energy and then power certain electronic applications. The core principle behind the development of cement-based batteries is the characteristics of the cement electrolyte acting as ionic conductor thereby facilitating the migration of ions between the electrodes. This review paper presents a compilation of works carried out by various researchers working towards the development of cement-based batteries along with a review on the various performance assessment parameters used by the authors, related to cement-based battery systems. In addition to the earlier works, the scope for future works in the development of cement-based batteries and the current work in progress from the authors’ front are reported as well.
Depressive symptoms moderate functional connectivity within the emotional brain in chronic pain
Authors: Quidé Yann , Norman-Nott Nell , Hesam-Shariati Negin , McAuley James H. , Gustin Sylvia M.
Published: May 2023

Background

Depressive symptoms are often comorbid with chronic pain. These conditions share aberrant emotion processing and regulation, as well as having common brain networks. However, the relationship between depressive symptoms and chronic pain and the effects on emotional brain function are unclear.

Aims

The present study aimed to disentangle the effects of chronic pain and depressive symptoms on functional connectivity between regions implicated in both these conditions.

Method

Twenty-six individuals with chronic pain (referred to as the pain group) and 32 healthy controls underwent resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging and completed the Beck Depression Inventory. Main effects of group, depressive symptoms (total severity score) and their interaction on the functional connectivity of three seed regions (the left and right amygdalae and the medial prefrontal cortex; mPFC) with the rest of the brain were evaluated. In cases of significant interaction, moderation analyses were conducted.

Results

The group × depressive symptoms interaction was significantly associated with changes in connectivity between the right amygdala and the mPFC (family-wise error-corrected P-threshold (pFWEc = 0.008). In the moderation analysis, the pain group showed weaker connectivity between these regions at lower levels of depressive symptoms (P = 0.020), and stronger connectivity at higher levels of depressive symptoms (P = 0.003), compared with the healthy controls. In addition, the strength of connectivity decreased in the healthy controls (P = 0.005) and increased in the pain group (P = 0.014) as the severity of depressive symptoms increased.

Conclusions

Depressive symptoms moderate the impact of chronic pain on emotional brain function, with potential implications for the choice of treatment for chronic pain.
COVID-19 and Other Viral Infections in Patients With Hematologic Malignancies
Authors: Harris Courtney E. , Vijenthira Abi , Ong Shin Yeu , Baden Lindsey Robert , Hicks Lisa K. , Baird John H.
Published: May 2023

COVID-19 and our armamentarium of strategies to combat it have evolved dramatically since the virus first emerged in late 2019. Vaccination remains the primary strategy to prevent severe illness, although the protective effect can vary in patients with hematologic malignancy. Strategies such as additional vaccine doses and now bivalent boosters can contribute to increased immune response, especially in the face of evolving viral variants. Because of these new variants, no approved monoclonal antibodies are available for pre-exposure or postexposure prophylaxis. Patients with symptomatic, mild-to-moderate COVID-19 and risk features for developing severe COVID-19, who present within 5-7 days of symptom onset, should be offered outpatient therapy with nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (NR) or in some cases with intravenous (IV) remdesivir. NR interacts with many blood cancer treatments, and reviewing drug interactions is essential. Patients with severe COVID-19 should be managed with IV remdesivir, tocilizumab (or an alternate interleukin-6 receptor blocker), or baricitinib, as indicated based on the severity of illness. Dexamethasone can be considered on an individual basis, weighing oxygen requirements and patients' underlying disease and their perceived ability to clear infection. Finally, as CD19-targeted and B-cell maturation (BCMA)–targeted chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapies become more heavily used for relapsed/refractory hematologic malignancies, viral infections including COVID-19 are increasingly recognized as common complications, but data on risk factors and prophylaxis in this patient population are scarce. We summarize the available evidence regarding viral infections after CAR T-cell therapy.
Targeted Therapies and the Evolving Standard of Care for Triple-Negative and Germline BRCA1/2-Mutated Breast Cancers in the High-Risk, Early-Stage Setting
Authors: Desai Neelam V. , Tan Antoinette R.
Published: May 2023

PURPOSE

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors have transformed the treatment landscape of metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Trial results have demonstrated the clinical benefit of these targeted agents in the advanced TNBC setting and have led to their evaluation in the treatment of high-risk, early-stage TNBC and BRCA-mutated breast cancer. We provide a summary of the results that have led to the establishment of the ICI pembrolizumab and the PARP inhibitor olaparib as new standards of care.

METHODS

Using PubMed, we searched for original articles published in English between 2017 and 2022. Search terms included triple-negative breast cancer, adjuvant, neoadjuvant, immunotherapy, and PARP inhibitors.

RESULTS

Two targeted therapies have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of TNBC and BRCA-mutated breast cancers in the high-risk, early-stage setting on the basis of clinical trial results demonstrating improved clinical outcomes. For high-risk, early-stage TNBC, pembrolizumab was approved as neoadjuvant therapy in combination with chemotherapy and as a single agent for continued treatment after surgery; this approval was based on results of the KEYNOTE-522 trial. Olaparib was approved for the adjuvant treatment of patients with high-risk, early-stage human epidermal growth factor receptor type 2 (HER2)–negative breast cancer with germline BRCA1/ 2 mutations who have been previously treated with neoadjuvant or adjuvant chemotherapy on the basis of the OlympiA trial results.

CONCLUSION

Clinical trial results demonstrate the pronounced clinical benefits of pembrolizumab combined with chemotherapy for high-risk, early-stage TNBC and adjuvant olaparib for high-risk, early-stage HER2-negative BRCA1/ 2-mutated breast cancer.
Unearthing the Time/Space/Matter of Multispecies Justice
Authors: Winter Christine J.
Published: May 2023

Multispecies justice is a developing field—or perhaps more accurately, a set of fields. It draws together a range of academic disciplines to examine human and nonhuman relationships. These include relationships of respect, responsibility, and, to some, reciprocity. The extent of those relationships and the range of species, forms, and being to be included, however, remains indistinct and variable. Whereas within traditional theories of justice concern for other beings remains tied to the desire to enhance human experience, life opportunities, goods, and virtues, the call to multispecies justice is motivated by the recognition that the nonhuman realm has intrinsic value and values. This article's argument is that given the relative infancy of multispecies justice as a field of study in the Western academy, there is an opportunity to ensure that it examines not only how to avoid damaging domination of the nonhuman realm but also the ongoing colonial domination of Indigenous epistemologies and ontologies. The article does not suggest an appropriation of Indigenous knowledge but rather an exploration of ways in which the field may remain sufficiently nuanced and open to accommodate multiple epistemological and ontological framings of theory. Drawing from Mātauranga Māori the article discusses an aspect of that decolonial project—why the scope of multispecies justice needs to be open to all planetary being and all time.
Transitional Justice beyond the Human
Authors: Ruiz-Serna Daniel
Published: May 2023

Indigenous and Afro-Colombian peoples often describe the harm caused by armed conflict in terms of damage inflicted on their traditional territories. To these peoples, the concept of territory makes reference not only to their lands but to a set of emplaced practices and relationships through which they share life with wider assemblages of human and other-than-human beings. It is the threat faced by these large communities of life that was invoked by Indigenous organizations when they succeeded in including the territory as a victim in the transitional justice framework recently implemented by the Colombian state. This article argues that the consideration of the territory as a victim means more than the full enjoyment of the land ownership rights Indigenous and Afro-Colombian peoples are entitled to. Instead, said consideration challenges some received notions regarding justice and reparation, particularly because war becomes an experience that extends beyond human losses and environmental degradation. The terms and practices mobilized by Indigenous and Afro-Colombian peoples compel us to examine the limits that concepts such as human rights, reparation, or even damage have in the understanding of war and its aftermath.
Biofortified andean blackberry (rubus glaucus benth) powder with Lacticaseibacillus casei: process and formulation effects
Authors: Marín-Arango Zaira Tatiana , Cortés R. Misael , Gil G. Jesús , Agudelo-Laverde Lina Marcela
Published: May 2023

Background: Physical, chemical, bromatological and morphological characteristics are some of the quality aspects that regulate food products. The Andean blackberry is a very perishable fruit, due to its moisture, acidity, and water activity. Dehydration is one of the most common techniques in food preservation.

Methods: In this research, blackberry concentrate, inulin and Lacticaseibacillus casei (L. casei), were co-encapsulated by spray drying using different conditions: maltodextrin (MD: 4-8%), inlet air temperature (IAT: 120-140 ºC), outlet air temperature (OAT: 70-80 ºC) and atomizing disc speed (ADS: 20000-24000 rpm).

Results: The experimental optimization had a desirability function (71.9%), MD (5.0%), IAT (121.1 ºC), OAT (71.6 ºC) and ADS (24000 rpm). Physicochemical characteristics and antioxidant capacity were determined in spray dried product. The blackberry powder biofortified with L. casei and inulin (BPLI) achieved 7.12±0.69 Log CFU/g, total phenols (2912.9±96.4 mg eq-gallic acid/100g), anthocyanins (202.9±5.2 mg eq-cyd-3-glu/100g), and antioxidant capacity (ABTS: 2423.1±96.6 mg Trolox/100g and DPPH: 3302.6±76.4 mg Trolox/100g).

Conclusions: The physicochemical properties of biofortified blackberry powder indicate that it is a product with appropriate solubility, humidity, and water activity for consumption and storage. BPLI has the potential to be a health food and could be positioned as a functional food due to its probiotic and prebiotic characteristics and the antioxidants that are beneficial to modern consumers; on the other hand, it represents a raw material with potential use in the food industry.
A study on biomedical researchers’ perspectives on public engagement in Southeast Asia
Authors: Tran Dong Thai Han , Van Thuy Qui Huong , Vu Duy Thanh , Fisher Jaom , Chambers Mary
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Public engagement is increasingly promoted in the scientific community. Although there are studies about researchers’ perspectives on public engagement, these are predominantly from Global North settings and there is little data from the context of Southeast Asia. The Oxford University Clinical Research Unit (OUCRU) is a clinical and public health research programme with sites in Vietnam, Nepal and Indonesia. There is a dedicated public engagement team, and it is recognised as an important part of the research process.  

Methods: Through this study we explored the views and needs of local researchers with regards to practicing public engagement. We obtained opinions of 70 researchers through an online survey with both open-ended and closed-ended questions.  

Results: Most researchers perceived public engagement as improving public science literacy, rather than supporting public participation in science and research. While the participants largely see public engagement as a necessary practice, they experienced four main barriers to taking part in public engagement: time, lack of capacity, lack of support and personal perceptions. Most participants indicated they had somewhat to low confidence to communicate about science to the public. Experience, skill and knowledge, and personal preference emerged as factors that influence their perceived confidence for science communication. In our analysis, experience appeared to be the main factor contributing to researchers' high confidence.  

Recommendations: We recommended to support researchers by not only providing them with training for skills and knowledge, but also with opportunities to conduct public engagement, and a range of methods to suit their personal styles of communicating. It is also evident that more support is needed to build an enabling institutional environment that gives researchers professional recognition for their engagement work. This study, while modest in its scope, has informed our approach to supporting researcher-led engagement, and may guide other institutes wishing to improve this.
The genome sequence of the Small Phoenix, Ecliptopera silaceata (Denis & Schiffermüller, 1775)
Authors: Boyes Douglas , Lewis Owen T. ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: May 2023

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Ecliptopera silaceata (the Small Phoenix; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Geometridae). The genome sequence is 316.5 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 29 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the assembled Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 17.5 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 16,770 protein coding genes.
The genome sequence of the Pebble Hook-tip, Drepana falcataria (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: Boyes Douglas , Lewis Owen T. ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: May 2023

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Drepana falcataria (the Pebble Hook-tip; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Drepanidae). The genome sequence is 326.7 megabases in span. The whole assembly is scaffolded into 31 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the assembled Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.4 kilobases in length.
The genome sequence of the Pinion-streaked Snout, Schrankia costaestrigalis (Stephens, 1834)
Authors: Boyes Douglas , Holland Peter W.H. ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: May 2023

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Schrankia costaestrigalis (the Pinion-streaked Snout; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Erebidae). The genome sequence is 572.0 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 31 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 16.1 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 19,453 protein coding genes.
RUSSIA IN TRANSFORMATIONAL PROCESSES OF MODERNITY: CULTURAL ASPECT
Authors: Tarasov Aleksey N.
Published: May 2023

The article analyzes the cultural aspect of the ongoing geopolitical transformation in the world, as well as the impact of these processes on Russia.
FEATURES OF CULTURAL AND LEISURE ACTIVITIES OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE YOUNGER GENERATION
Authors: Safonov Kirill B.
Published: May 2023

The article is devoted to the study of the features of cultural and leisure activities of modern youth. The author notes that properly organized leisure plays an important role in the personal development of every young person. The result of this can be considered the optimization of the processes of socialization and social adaptation of the younger generation.
ARCHITECTONICS OF THE SOCIO-CULTURAL SPACE OF THE CITY (ON THE EXAMPLE OF CHITA)
Authors: Kondakova Natalia S.
Published: May 2023

The article discusses the architectonics of the socio-cultural space of the city. The relevance of the work is due to the modern processes of changing the socio-cultural space in general and the city in particular. Transformations are caused by a variety of interrelated factors, such as the intensification of the urbanization process; the layering of various spaces; the influence of the economic and environmental situation in the region; migration processes. The author, relying on a comprehensive methodology, seeks to present the urban space as an integrative whole, including subject and semantic fullness, to identify the features of its transformation. The analysis of the socio-cultural space of the city is based on the study of the space of the city of Chita, its correlation with the factors contributing to the emergence of this space and the reasons transforming it. The author notes the great importance of Chita of the historical past for the formation of urban space. To change the appearance of the socio-cultural space of the city.
GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS AND MEASURES AIMED AT PREVENTING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AGAINST CHILDREN IN AZERBAIJAN
Authors: Gahramanov Aykhan
Published: May 2023

In Azerbaijan, the most important legislative framework aimed at the support and protection of children’s rights has been created (Declaration of Children’s Rights, Convention on Children’s Rights, Activity Plan for the Implementation of the Strategy for Children 2020-2025, Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan “On Social Protection of Children, Orphans and Children, those left without parental care”, Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan “On the prevention of domestic violence”). Nevertheless, as in many countries of the world, taking into account social and legal stereotypes, the problem of child violence remains quite relevant. It is for this reason that it is necessary to take certain measures at the local level – it is especially important to increase the role of social workers in the field under consideration, as well as to increase the number of state assistance centers.
Long way to diagnosis – case report of 23-year old patient with multifocal abdominal endometriosis
Authors: Gacoń Ewa , Zembala Julita , Kucharski Jakub , Ząber Aldona , Zapała Brygida
Published: May 2023

Endometriosis is a chronic gynaecological disease characterized by the presence of the uterine mucosa that functions in accordance with the menstrual cycle outside of its usual location. This disease significantly reduces the quality of life of women facing numerous ailments, most often pain, and may lead to reduced fertility.
The prevalence of endometriosis is difficult to determine due to the complexity and lengthy diagnosis. It is estimated that this disease occurs in 3-8% of women of reproductive age, and symptoms may also appear after menopause. It is worth noting that the relationship between the disease's severity and endometriosis symptoms is often not proportional.
The aim of the paper is to present a case report of a 23-year-old female patient with endometriosis, to differentiate the disease from irritable bowel syndrome and to draw attention to the problematic and lengthy diagnostic process due to the multitude of symptoms from various organs.
Material and method: Study of an individual case of a patient and a review of scientific articles available in Google Scholar and a review of publicly available textbooks in the field of medicine.
The paper emphasizes the need to broaden the knowledge about endometriosis by specialists in many fields of medicine and points to the lack of quick, minimally invasive tests enabling efficient diagnosis of the disease.
Increasing the awareness of doctors including other specializations than gynaecology, organizing campaigns to increase awareness of the disease among women, which may contribute to earlier diagnosis of patients, earlier application of an effective treatment, and improvement of patients' quality of life.
Health behaviors of patients with arterial hypertension aged 60-70 treated in the cardiology department
Authors: Bąk Ewelina , Piętka Jadwiga , Pawlak Anna
Published: May 2023

Introduction and purpose of the study: Arterial hypertension is currently the biggest economic problem among cardiovascular diseases. It concerns the population of the elderly, in whom health behaviors are necessary, but difficult to implement. Hospitalization of such patients creates an opportunity for education and preventive actions in the field of proper health behavior.

Materials and methods: The study used the diagnostic survey method and the self-questionnaire was used in conjunction with the standardized questionnaire of the Health Behavior Inventory. The research was conducted in the Cardiology Department, among 100 patients hospitalized in the period from August to October 2019. The study was approved by the management of the Provincial Hospital in Bielsko-Biała.

Research results: In the study group of patients with arterial hypertension, the highest score among health behaviors was given to health practices and positive mental attitude, and the lowest score was given to preventive behaviors.

Conclusions: Declared health behaviors among patients with arterial hypertension were statistically significantly higher among women, people who do not work, eat a healthy diet, avoid stress, maintain physical activity, regularly take medications, regularly cooperate with a family doctor and use an adequate amount of sleep and rest.
Interpretable Matrix Completion: A Discrete Optimization Approach
Authors: Bertsimas Dimitris , Li Michael Lingzhi
Published: May 2023

We consider the problem of matrix completion on an n × m matrix. We introduce the problem of interpretable matrix completion that aims to provide meaningful insights for the low-rank matrix using side information. We show that the problem can be reformulated as an optimization problem with a convex objective and binary variables. We design an algorithm called OptComplete, based on a novel concept of stochastic cutting planes to enable efficient scaling of the algorithm up to matrices of sizes n = 106 and m = 106. We prove that OptComplete converges to an optimal solution of the interpretable matrix completion problem with exponentially vanishing failure probability. We report experiments on both synthetic and real-world data sets that show that OptComplete has favorable scaling behavior and accuracy when compared with state-of-the-art methods for other types of matrix completion while providing insight on the factors that affect the matrix.

History: Accepted by Andrea Lodi, Area Editor for Design & Analysis of Algorithms—Discrete.

Supplemental Material: The online appendices are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/ijoc.2022.0022 .