bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advancements in Endometrial Cancer Research in 2023
Authors: Scott Brigitte
Published: February 2024

Endometrial cancer is one of the most common gynaecological cancers in developed countries, and the incidence is rising significantly. The staging of this disease is evolving from anatomic staging and risk stratification to a more molecular-based stratification. Treatment of endometrial cancer is also evolving. Paclitaxel plus carboplatin is the standard first-line chemotherapy for endometrial cancer; however, there is new evidence that the combination of chemotherapy and immunotherapy has synergistic effects in the treatment of this disease. This article discusses the latest advancements in endometrial cancer research in 2023, including highlights from the Society of Gynecologic Oncology (SGO) Annual Meeting on Women’s Cancers 2023 in March, the 2023 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting in June, the 24th European Gynaecological Oncology (ESGO) Congress in September and October, and the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Congress 2023 in October. The article highlights the unprecedented progression-free survival (PFS) data from two Phase III randomised controlled trials evaluating first-line immunotherapy in combination with chemotherapy in patients with advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer: RUBY with dostarlimab, and NRG-GY018 with pembrolizumab, which created a buzz at SGO 2023 in the spring, and stimulated discussion throughout the remainder of the year. The overall survival (OS) results, the clinically meaningful benefits regardless of mismatch repair status, and health-related quality of life (QOL) in these studies are also discussed. Further topics covered in this year-in-review article include the implications of the results from RUBY and NRG-GY018 on first-line treatment and recurrent settings, and the effect of adding a poly adenosine diphosphate ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitor to immunotherapy–chemotherapy combinations in the Phase III trial, DUO-E. Disparities in endometrial cancer care, research on fertility-sparing, and the importance of the multidisciplinary team (MDT) in endometrial cancer management are also explored. Following the announcement of practice-changing findings from RUBY and NRG-GY018 in March, data presented and published throughout the remainder of 2023 show that research in endometrial cancer continues at a pace.
The Use of Appreciative Inquiries In Rural Communities
Authors: Oliphant Emmerentie , Bailey-Wallace Kristin , Wyatt Lenola , Avant Freddie L. , Rhodes Loran
Published: February 2024

Counties in East Texas experience elevated levels of poverty and underemployment, and limited access to important services. However, in these rural areas in Texas, Unites States, social capital and relationships are considered some of the most important strengths. The connection between people, ongoing support for each other, and the need to bring about change in their communities, lead people to use their own power to create sustainable change. When addressing specific needs such as rural access to services, substance use, mental health care, and supporting families with infants and children, it is important to build on the social capital of the communities. How do we connect people to engage and intervene in a sustainable way? In rural communities, coalitions have emerged for many years as an innovative way to address needs. Coalitions bring people with the same purpose together. To establish coalitions, community social workers use appreciative inquiries to strengthen the social capital and develop important sustainable and focused connections between people.The article focuses on the usability of the appreciative inquiry approach in rural communities and details three case studies of effective rural coalition development. In all three case studies the purpose was to (1) identify the needs, challenges and strengths as described by people with lived experiences and diverse stakeholders, (2) identify specific priorities and (3) develop and sustain a coalition to address the priorities in a sustainable way. As with any appreciative inquiry, the data collection takes place at the same time as reflection and development of action. A descriptive process to discover, dream, design, and deliver to establish coalitions (destiny) is introduced. At the center of this process are the people with lived experiences who participate in the discovery process, serve on the coalitions, and they are the key to the development of the coalitions.
Effect of nanoporous membranes thickness in electrochemical biosensing performance: application for the detection of a wound infection biomarker
Authors: Toyos-Rodríguez C. , Valero-Calvo D. , Iglesias-Mayor A. , de la Escosura-Muñiz A.
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Nanoporous alumina membranes present a honeycomb-like structure characterized by two main parameters involved in their performance in electrochemical immunosening: pore diameter and pore thickness. Although this first one has been deeply studied, the effect of pore thickness in electrochemical-based nanopore immunosensors has been less taken into consideration.

Methods: In this work, the influence of the thickness of nanoporous membranes in the steric blockage is studied for the first time, through the formation of an immunocomplex in their inner walls. Finally, the optimal nanoporous membranes were applied to the detection of catalase, an enzyme related with chronic wound infection and healing.

Results: Nanoporous alumina membranes with a fixed pore diameter (60 nm) and variable pore thicknesses (40, 60, 100 μm) have been constructed and evaluated as immunosensing platform for protein detection. Our results show that membranes with a thickness of 40 μm provide a higher sensitivity and lower limit-of-detection (LOD) compared to thicker membranes. This performance is even improved when compared to commercial membranes (with 20 nm pore diameter and 60 μm pore thickness), when applied for human IgG as model analyte. A label-free immunosensor using a monoclonal antibody against anti-catalase was also constructed, allowing the detection of catalase in the range of 50–500 ng/mL and with a LOD of 1.5 ng/mL. The viability of the constructed sensor in real samples was also tested by spiking artificial wound infection solutions, providing recovery values of 110% and 118%.

Discussion: The results obtained in this work evidence the key relevance of the nanochannel thickness in the biosensing performance. Such findings will illuminate nanoporous membrane biosensing research, considering thickness as a relevant parameter in electrochemical-based nanoporous membrane sensors.
Dimethyloxallyl glycine-loaded mesoporous bioactive glass/poly(D,L-lactide) composite scaffolds with ultrasound stimulation for promoting bone repair
Authors: Han Lei , Zhao Chaoqian , Zhu Yufang , Li Huang
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Bone tissue engineering is considered the ideal approach for bone repair. Mesoporous bioactive glass (MBG) possesses the characteristics of high drug-loading capacity and bioactivity. Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound contributes to promoting fracture healing and bone defect repair, and dimethyloxalyl glycine (DMOG) is a small molecular inhibitor that can suppress prolyl hydroxylase, reducing the degradation of hypoxia-inducible factor.

Methods: In this study, we proposed to prepare DMOG-loaded MBG/poly(D,L-lactide) composite scaffolds (DMOG-MBG/PDLLA) for promoting bone repair. The effects of ultrasound stimulation and DMOG release on the cell responses of rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and bone repair in vivo were investigated.

Results and Discussion: The results showed that both ultrasound stimulation and DMOG release could promote the proliferation, adhesion and differentiation of BMSCs and HUVECs, respectively. After the implantation of scaffolds in rat cranial bone defect model for 8 weeks, the results indicated that the combined ultrasound stimulation and DMOG release contributed to the highest ability for promoting bone repair. Hence, the DMOG-MBG/PDLLA scaffolds with ultrasound stimulation are promising for application in bone repair.
Life cycle assessment for early-stage process optimization of microbial biosurfactant production using kinetic models—a case study on mannosylerythritol lipids (MEL)
Authors: Bippus Lars , Briem Ann-Kathrin , Beck Alexander , Zibek Susanne , Albrecht Stefan
Published: February 2024

Introduction: This study assesses the environmental impacts of mannosylerythritol lipids (MELs) production for process optimization using life cycle assessment (LCA). MELs are glycolipid-type microbial biosurfactants with many possible applications based on their surface-active properties. They are generally produced by fungi from the family of Ustilaginaceae via fermentation in aerated bioreactors. The aim of our work is to accompany the development of biotechnological products at an early stage to enable environmentally sustainable process optimization.

Methods: This is done by identifying hotspots and potentials for improvement based on a reliable quantification of the environmental impacts. The production processes of MELs are evaluated in a cradle-to-gate approach using the Environmental Footprint (EF) 3.1 impact assessment method. The LCA model is based on upscaled experimental data for the fermentation and purification, assuming the production at a 10 m³ scale. In the case analyzed, MELs are produced from rapeseed oil and glucose, and purified by separation, solvent extraction, and chromatography.

Results: The results of the LCA show that the provision of substrates is a major source of environmental impacts and accounts for 20% of the impacts on Climate Change and more than 70% in the categories Acidification and Eutrophication. Moreover, 33% of the impacts on Climate Change is caused by the energy requirements for aeration of the bioreactor, while purification accounts for 42% of the impacts respectively. For the purification, solvents are identified as the main contributors in most impact categories.

Discussion: The results illustrate the potentials for process optimization to reduce the environmental impacts of substrate requirements, enhanced bioreactor aeration, and efficient solvent use in downstream processing. By a scenario analysis, considering both experimental adaptations and prospective variations of the process, the laboratory development can be supported with further findings and hence efficiently optimized towards environmental sustainability. Moreover, the presentation of kinetic LCA results over the fermentation duration shows a novel way of calculating and visualizing results that corresponds to the way of thinking of process engineers using established environmental indicators and a detailed system analysis. Altogether, this LCA study supports and demonstrates the potential for further improvements towards more environmentally friendly produced surfactants.
Growth capacity of a Wharton’s Jelly derived mesenchymal stromal cells tissue engineered vascular graft used for main pulmonary artery reconstruction in piglets
Authors: Iacobazzi Dominga , Ghorbel Mohamed T. , Rapetto Filippo , Narayan Srinivas A. , Deutsch Julia , Salih Tasneem , Harris Amy G. , Skeffington Katie L. , Parry Richard , Parolari Giulia , Chanoit Guillaume , Caputo Massimo
Published: February 2024

Background: Surgical treatment of congenital heart defects affecting the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) often requires complex reconstruction and multiple reoperations due to structural degeneration and lack of growth of currently available materials. Hence, alternative approaches for RVOT reconstruction, which meet the requirements of biocompatibility and long-term durability of an ideal scaffold, are needed. Through this full scale pre-clinical study, we demonstrated the growth capacity of a Wharton’s Jelly derived mesenchymal stromal cells (WJ-MSC) tissue engineered vascular graft used in reconstructing the main pulmonary artery in piglets, providing proof of biocompatibility and efficacy.

Methods: Sixteen four-week-old Landrace pigs were randomized to undergo supravalvar Main Pulmonary Artery (MPA) replacement with either unseeded or WJ-MSCs-seeded Small Intestinal Submucosa-derived grafts. Animals were followed up for 6 months by clinical examinations and cardiac imaging. At termination, sections of MPAs were assessed by macroscopic inspection, histology and fluorescent immunohistochemistry.

Results: Data collected at 6 months follow up showed no sign of graft thrombosis or calcification. The explanted main pulmonary arteries demonstrated a significantly higher degree of cellular organization and elastin content in the WJ-MSCs seeded grafts compared to the acellular counterparts. Transthoracic echocardiography and cardiovascular magnetic resonance confirmed the superior growth and remodelling of the WJ-MSCs seeded conduit compared to the unseeded.

Conclusion: Our findings indicate that the addition of WJ-MSCs to the acellular scaffold can upgrade the material, converting it into a biologically active tissue, with the potential to grow, repair and remodel the RVOT.
Picornavirus 2C proteins: structure-function relationships and interactions with host factors
Authors: Yin Chunhui , Zhao Haomiao , Xia Xiaoyi , Pan Zhengyang , Li Daoqun , Zhang Leiliang
Published: February 2024

Picornaviruses, which are positive-stranded, non-enveloped RNA viruses, are known to infect people and animals with a broad spectrum of diseases. Among the nonstructural proteins in picornaviruses, 2C proteins are highly conserved and exhibit multiple structural domains, including amphipathic α-helices, an ATPase structural domain, and a zinc finger structural domain. This review offers a comprehensive overview of the functional structures of picornaviruses’ 2C protein. We summarize the mechanisms by which the 2C protein enhances viral replication. 2C protein interacts with various host factors to form the replication complex, ultimately promoting viral replication. We review the mechanisms through which picornaviruses’ 2C proteins interact with the NF-κB, RIG-I, MDA5, NOD2, and IFN pathways, contributing to the evasion of the antiviral innate immune response. Additionally, we provide an overview of broad-spectrum antiviral drugs for treating various enterovirus infections, such as guanidine hydrochloride, fluoxetine, and dibucaine derivatives. These drugs may exert their inhibitory effects on viral infections by targeting interactions with 2C proteins. The review underscores the need for further research to elucidate the precise mechanisms of action of 2C proteins and to identify additional host factors for potential therapeutic intervention. Overall, this review contributes to a deeper understanding of picornaviruses and offers insights into the antiviral strategies against these significant viral pathogens.
Targeting behavioral factors with digital health and shared decision-making to promote cardiac rehabilitation—a narrative review
Authors: Höppchen Isabel , Wurhofer Daniela , Meschtscherjakov Alexander , Smeddinck Jan David , Kulnik Stefan Tino
Published: February 2024

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) represents an important steppingstone for many cardiac patients into a more heart-healthy lifestyle to prevent premature death and improve quality of life years. However, CR is underutilized worldwide. In order to support the development of targeted digital health interventions, this narrative review (I) provides understandings of factors influencing CR utilization from a behavioral perspective, (II) discusses the potential of digital health technologies (DHTs) to address barriers and reinforce facilitators to CR, and (III) outlines how DHTs could incorporate shared decision-making to support CR utilization. A narrative search of reviews in Web of Science and PubMed was conducted to summarize evidence on factors influencing CR utilization. The factors were grouped according to the Behaviour Change Wheel. Patients' Capability for participating in CR is influenced by their disease knowledge, awareness of the benefits of CR, information received, and interactions with healthcare professionals (HCP). The Opportunity to attend CR is impacted by healthcare system factors such as referral processes and HCPs' awareness, as well as personal resources including logistical challenges and comorbidities. Patients' Motivation to engage in CR is affected by emotions, factors such as gender, age, self-perception of fitness and control over the cardiac condition, as well as peer comparisons. Based on behavioral factors, this review identified intervention functions that could support an increase of CR uptake: Future DHTs aiming to support CR utilization may benefit from incorporating information for patients and HCP education, enabling disease management and collaboration along the patient pathway, and enhancing social support from relatives and peers. To conclude, considerations are made how future innovations could incorporate such functions.
Large-scale drivers of the exceptionally low winter Antarctic sea ice extent in 2023
Authors: Ionita Monica
Published: February 2024

The year 2023 marked a turning point for the Antarctic region as the Southern Hemisphere experienced a significant reduction in its sea ice extent, with a record-breaking sea ice minimum in July 2023 of approximately 2.4 million square kilometers below the long-term average. This study highlights the drivers behind this exceptional event by combining observational, satellite, and reanalysis data, with a special focus on the large-scale atmospheric circulation. Throughout the year, the Antarctic Sea ice extent broke record after record, ranking as the lowest sea ice on record from January to October, except for March and April. The exceptionally low sea ice extent from May to August was mainly driven by the prevalence of a zonal wave number 3 pattern, characterized by alternating surface high- and low-pressure systems, which favored the advection of heat and moisture, especially over the Ross Sea (RS), Weddell Sea (WS), and Indian Ocean (IO). The anomalous large-scale circulation was accompanied by record-high sea surface and subsurface temperatures over the regions with reduced sea ice extent. In addition to the air and ocean temperature, record-breaking heat, moisture, and sensible heat fluxes have been observed, especially over the WS, RS, and IO, which further amplified the reduction in the sea ice extent over these areas. Notably, over the Weddell Sea, we observed air temperature anomalies reaching up to 8°C and sea surface temperature anomalies of up to 3°C from May to July. Similar temperature anomalies were recorded over the Ross Sea, particularly in July and August. A change point analysis indicates that a regime shift in the Antarctic Sea ice, as well as in the average mean air temperature and (sub)surface ocean temperature over the Weddell Sea, started around 2015. The low sea ice extent in Antarctica in 2023 was a stark reminder of the ongoing changes in the polar regions. Thus, understanding the underlying mechanisms of these extreme events provides crucial insights into the changing dynamics of Antarctic Sea ice and its broader climatic significance.
Study on the rock physical mechanical properties evaluation of tight oil reservoir in Chang 7 member, Longdong area, Ordos Basin, China
Authors: Wang Ruifei , Tang Ying
Published: February 2024

The study aims to investigate the rock mechanical properties of the Chang 7 member tight oil reservoir in the Longdong region of the Ordos Basin, China, with the goal of enhancing the efficiency of oilfield development. Despite numerous contributions in the field of rock mechanics, challenges persist in reconciling experimental results with actual geological conditions and achieving comprehensive understanding of rock mechanical properties in tight oil reservoirs. To address this, a variety of experimental methods were employed to systematically assess the mechanical properties of the target reservoir. Rock density was measured using volumetric methods, tensile strength was evaluated through the Brazilian test, uniaxial and triaxial compression tests were conducted to assess rock mechanics properties, and dynamic elastic modulus and Poisson’s ratio were obtained via sonic velocity measurements. Furthermore, differential strain analysis and imaging log analysis were employed to determine the magnitude and direction of geostress. The results revealed that fine-grained sandstone exhibited higher rock density and relatively higher tensile strength, while muddy siltstone exhibited comparatively lower values in these aspects. Analysis of the influence of confining pressure on rock mechanics properties demonstrated a strong positive correlation between compressive strength and Young’s modulus with confining pressure, while Poisson’s ratio exhibited more irregular variations. Additionally, a mathematical relationship between dynamic and static rock mechanical parameters was established. Lastly, based on the characteristics of geostress, reliable foundations for optimizing hydraulic fracturing and wellbore layout were provided. This study has enriched and complemented the investigation of rock mechanical properties in tight reservoirs, offering vital parameters and theoretical support for the development of tight oil reservoirs. This bears significant importance in enhancing petroleum extraction efficiency and optimizing engineering design.
Challenges and opportunities for process intensification in Europe from a process systems engineering perspective
Authors: Li Qing , Somoza-Tornos Ana , Grievink Johan , Kiss Anton A.
Published: February 2024

Process Intensification (PI) is an effective way to enhance process efficiency and sustainability at affordable costs and efforts, attracting particular interest in the European area, as one of the most important chemical production areas in the world. PI primarily contributes by developing and testing new processing technologies that once integrated within a process improve the overall process performance substantially but as a result, it may alter the overall process (flowsheet) structure and its dynamic behavior. As such PI plays a key role in improving energy efficiency, optimizing resource allocation, and reducing environmental impact of industrial processes, and thereby leading to a cost-effective, eco-efficient, low-carbon and sustainable industry. However, along with opportunities, the PI new technologies have challenges related to failures in longer-term performance. In this respect, Process Systems Engineering (PSE) stance is more on integration aspects of new PI technologies into processes by making process (re)designs, doing operability studies, and performance optimizations within a supply chain setting. PSE contributes to overcoming the challenges by providing systematic approaches for the design and optimization of PI technologies. This perspective paper is a lightly referenced scholarly opinion piece about the status and directions of process intensification field from a PSE viewpoint. Primarily, it focuses on PSE perspectives towards sustainable lower energy usage process systems and provides a brief overview of the current situation in Europe. It also emphasizes the key challenges and opportunities for (new) PI technologies considering their integration in a process in terms of process synthesis and design, process flowsheet optimization, process and plantwide control, (green) electrification, sustainability improvements. Potential research directions on these aspects are given from an industrial and academic perspective of the authors.
Study on the coupling coordination effect and dynamic relationship between tourism development and the ecological environment: a case study of Hainan Island
Authors: Zhong Chongqing , Wu Xiaowei , Jia Peihong , Zhang Kehui
Published: February 2024

As a Free Trade Port in China, the protection of ecological environment and high-quality tourism development on Hainan Island have become a national strategy. Exploring the coupling relationship of the two subsystems holds great practical significance for promoting the island’s international demonstration area and high-quality development. Based on the characteristics of international islands, a comprehensive index system is established to explore the coupling coordination evolutionary process and interactive stress relationship of tourism development and the ecological environment in Hainan Island from 2005 to 2020. The results show: (1) From 2005 to 2019, the comprehensive evaluation index of the two subsystems of Hainan Island generally showed a continuous growth trend. (2) From 2005 to 2019, the coupling degree of the two subsystems of Hainan Island strengthened continuously, the coupling coordination degree increased steadily from a moderate imbalance to good coordination, and tourism development and the ecological environment entered a stage of parallel and benign interactive development. (3) In 2020, affected by COVID-19, the tourism development indicators declined rapidly, while the ecological environment still maintained a rising trend. (4) Based on the inverted U-shaped curve model, when the tourism development index reaches 0.7269, the ecological environment quality reaches the maximum value of 0.7956, which is the best state between the two subsystems. The ecological environment and tourism development of Hainan Island are generally in a benign interaction, but there are signs of interactive stress starting in 2017. In the future, the pressure on the ecological environment of Hainan Island will increase.
Enhancing multiple benefits of brownfield cleanups by applying ecosystem services concepts
Authors: Mastervich Brooke , Garbach Kelly , Harwell Matthew C.
Published: February 2024

Brownfields are increasingly called upon to be transformed from potentially contaminated, often vacant properties into community assets that provide multiple benefits. Further, brownfields revitalization can provide critical opportunities and, particularly, nature-based solutions can enhance multiple ecological, human health, and economic benefits. Through a series of non-exhaustive surveys of existing examples of environmental benefits of cleanups, case study examples of brownfield cleanups achieving environmental benefits, and potential ecosystem services tools relevant to steps of a brownfields cleanup effort, we explore practical ideas for enhancing environmental benefits of brownfields cleanups by applying ecosystem services concepts. Examples of nature-based solutions, where appropriate, include the use of rain gardens, permeable pavements, green spaces, and the use of green technologies. Further, this article provides an overview of recent policy initiatives focused on nature-based solutions and enhancing ecosystem services in brownfields cleanup, revitalization, and reuse. Our goals are to increase the knowledge base on these opportunities and discuss how these concepts can be achieved through sharing success stories, making outreach materials accessible, and holding workshops to help successfully operationalize these concepts in a community’s visioning for upcoming revitalization projects.
Antigenic epitope targets of rhesus macaques self-curing from Schistosoma mansoni infection
Authors: Vance Gillian M. , Khouri Mariana I. , Neto Almiro Pires da Silva , James Sally , Leite Luciana C. C. , Farias Leonardo Paiva , Wilson R. Alan
Published: February 2024

The self-cure of rhesus macaques from a schistosome infection and their subsequent strong immunity to a cercarial challenge should provide novel insights into the way these parasites can be eliminated by immunological attack. High-density arrays comprising overlapping 15-mer peptides from target proteins printed on glass slides can be used to screen sera from host species to determine antibody reactivity at the single epitope level. Careful selection of proteins, based on compositional studies, is crucial to encompass only those exposed on or secreted from the intra-mammalian stages and is intended to focus the analysis solely on targets mediating protection. We report the results of this approach using two pools of sera from hi- and lo-responder macaques undergoing self-cure, to screen arrays comprising tegument, esophageal gland, and gastrodermis proteins. We show that, overall, the target epitopes are the same in both groups, but the intensity of response is twice as strong in the high responders. In addition, apart from Sm25, tegument proteins elicit much weaker responses than those originating in the alimentary tract, as was apparent in IFNγR KO mice. We also highlight the most reactive epitopes in key proteins. Armed with this knowledge, we intend to use multi-epitope constructs in vaccination experiments, which seek to emulate the self-cure process in experimental animals and potentially in humans.
Mitochondria: the gatekeepers between metabolism and immunity
Authors: Trinchese Giovanna , Cimmino Fabiano , Catapano Angela , Cavaliere Gina , Mollica Maria Pina
Published: February 2024

Metabolism and immunity are crucial monitors of the whole-body homeodynamics. All cells require energy to perform their basic functions. One of the most important metabolic skills of the cell is the ability to optimally adapt metabolism according to demand or availability, known as metabolic flexibility. The immune cells, first line of host defense that circulate in the body and migrate between tissues, need to function also in environments in which nutrients are not always available. The resilience of immune cells consists precisely in their high adaptive capacity, a challenge that arises especially in the framework of sustained immune responses. Pubmed and Scopus databases were consulted to construct the extensive background explored in this review, from the Kennedy and Lehninger studies on mitochondrial biochemistry of the 1950s to the most recent findings on immunometabolism. In detail, we first focus on how metabolic reconfiguration influences the action steps of the immune system and modulates immune cell fate and function. Then, we highlighted the evidence for considering mitochondria, besides conventional cellular energy suppliers, as the powerhouses of immunometabolism. Finally, we explored the main immunometabolic hubs in the organism emphasizing in them the reciprocal impact between metabolic and immune components in both physiological and pathological conditions.
Multiple influence of immune cells in the bone metastatic cancer microenvironment on tumors
Authors: Chen Shixin , Lei Jiangchu , Mou Haochen , Zhang Wenkan , Jin Lingxiao , Lu Senxu , Yinwang Eloy , Xue Yucheng , Shao Zhenxuan , Chen Tao , Wang Fangqian , Zhao Shenzhi , Chai Xupeng , Wang Zenan , Zhang Jiahao , Zhang Zengjie , Ye Zhaoming , Li Binghao
Published: February 2024

Bone is a common organ for solid tumor metastasis. Malignant bone tumor becomes insensitive to systemic therapy after colonization, followed by poor prognosis and high relapse rate. Immune and bone cells in situ constitute a unique immune microenvironment, which plays a crucial role in the context of bone metastasis. This review firstly focuses on lymphatic cells in bone metastatic cancer, including their function in tumor dissemination, invasion, growth and possible cytotoxicity-induced eradication. Subsequently, we examine myeloid cells, namely macrophages, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, dendritic cells, and megakaryocytes, evaluating their interaction with cytotoxic T lymphocytes and contribution to bone metastasis. As important components of skeletal tissue, osteoclasts and osteoblasts derived from bone marrow stromal cells, engaging in ‘vicious cycle’ accelerate osteolytic bone metastasis. We also explain the concept tumor dormancy and investigate underlying role of immune microenvironment on it. Additionally, a thorough review of emerging treatments for bone metastatic malignancy in clinical research, especially immunotherapy, is presented, indicating current challenges and opportunities in research and development of bone metastasis therapies.
Potential immune evasion of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 Omicron variants
Authors: Chen Luyi , He Ying , Liu Hongye , Shang Yongjun , Guo Guoning
Published: February 2024

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which is caused by the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has caused a global pandemic. The Omicron variant (B.1.1.529) was first discovered in November 2021 in specimens collected from Botswana, South Africa. Omicron has become the dominant variant worldwide, and several sublineages or subvariants have been identified recently. Compared to those of other mutants, the Omicron variant has the most highly expressed amino acid mutations, with almost 60 mutations throughout the genome, most of which are in the spike (S) protein, especially in the receptor-binding domain (RBD). These mutations increase the binding affinity of Omicron variants for the ACE2 receptor, and Omicron variants may also lead to immune escape. Despite causing milder symptoms, epidemiological evidence suggests that Omicron variants have exceptionally higher transmissibility, higher rates of reinfection and greater spread than the prototype strain as well as other preceding variants. Additionally, overwhelming amounts of data suggest that the levels of specific neutralization antibodies against Omicron variants decrease in most vaccinated populations, although CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell responses are maintained. Therefore, the mechanisms underlying Omicron variant evasion are still unclear. In this review, we surveyed the current epidemic status and potential immune escape mechanisms of Omicron variants. Especially, we focused on the potential roles of viral epitope mutations, antigenic drift, hybrid immunity, and “original antigenic sin” in mediating immune evasion. These insights might supply more valuable concise information for us to understand the spreading of Omicron variants.
Valuation of marine areas for merchant shipping: an attempt at shipping spatial rent valuation based on Polish Marine Areas
Authors: Czermański Ernest , Zaucha Jacek , Oniszczuk-Jastrząbek Aneta , Pardus Joanna , Kiersztyn Adam , Czerwiński Dariusz
Published: February 2024

As part of the progressive process of extending spatial plans to cover an increasing number of marine areas, with the aim of objectively balancing the interests of various users of the marine area, it has become necessary to establish the value of marine areas as a yardstick or determinant of the user group for which a given marine area is of greater value. This study seeks to fill a research gap by attempting to develop a method to calculate the value of marine areas for the commercial shipping industry. This is done to make it possible in the future to prepare the ground for policy regulating the spatial rent of the sea, whose most important users are shipowners and their ships. We use the homogeneous basin of the Polish Marine Areas (PMA) in the Baltic Sea. Based on a literature review, we conclude that such a method does not exist, posing a significant challenge in the process of marine/maritime spatial planning (MSP) and maritime policy formulation. Conducting an in-depth analysis of 2020 data on ship traffic in the basin noted above, combined with a financial analysis of shipowners’ operating costs and profitability indicators, we can determine the value of marine areas both in aggregate for all shipping in the studied basin and for each of the five segments of shipping – the bulk cargo, ro-ro cargo, container, tanker, and passenger segments. In addition, through a dynamic analysis of ship traffic, it is possible to determine the value of sea area in Polish seawaters per unit of area (1 km²) at the average level and for the five specified market segments. The obtained values show that the total profits of shipowners in the Polish Marine Areas, which are at the level of more than EUR 103 million per year, and the average value of profits per 1 km² of marine area used by a ship provide future decision-makers with an objective point of reference to shape future policies for the fiscalization of public space, including the sea.
Therapeutic potential of adipose derived stromal cells for major skin inflammatory diseases
Authors: Galera Marina Ramírez , Svalgaard Jesper , Woetmann Anders
Published: February 2024

Inflammatory skin diseases like psoriasis and atopic dermatitis are chronic inflammatory skin conditions continuously under investigation due to increased prevalence and lack of cure. Moreover, long-term treatments available are often associated with adverse effects and drug resistance. Consequently, there is a clear unmet need for new therapeutic approaches. One promising and cutting-edge treatment option is the use of adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (AD-MSCs) due to its immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, this mini review aims to highlight why adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal cells are a potential new treatment for these diseases by summarizing the pre-clinical and clinical studies investigated up to date and addressing current limitations and unresolved clinical questions from a dermatological and immunomodulatory point of view.
Topological features of spike trains in recurrent spiking neural networks that are trained to generate spatiotemporal patterns
Authors: Maslennikov Oleg , Perc Matjaž , Nekorkin Vladimir
Published: February 2024

In this study, we focus on training recurrent spiking neural networks to generate spatiotemporal patterns in the form of closed two-dimensional trajectories. Spike trains in the trained networks are examined in terms of their dissimilarity using the Victor–Purpura distance. We apply algebraic topology methods to the matrices obtained by rank-ordering the entries of the distance matrices, specifically calculating the persistence barcodes and Betti curves. By comparing the features of different types of output patterns, we uncover the complex relations between low-dimensional target signals and the underlying multidimensional spike trains.
The impacts of dietary sphingomyelin supplementation on metabolic parameters of healthy adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Li Chen-Zi , Wu Li-Mei , Zhu Chen-Xi , Du Huan-Yu , Chen Guo-Xun , Yang Fang
Published: February 2024

Background

Studies have shown that sphingomyelin (SM) and its metabolites play signaling roles in the regulation of human health. Endogenous SM is involved in metabolic syndrome (MetS), while dietary SM supplementation may maintain lipid metabolism and prevent or alleviate MetS. Therefore, we hypothesized that dietary SM supplementation is beneficial for human health.

Aims

In order to examine the impacts of dietary SM on metabolic indexes in adults without MetS, we performed a meta-analysis to test our hypothesis.

Methods

A comprehensive search was performed to retrieve randomized controlled trials that were conducted between 2003 and 2023 to examine the effects of dietary SM supplementation on metabolic parameters in the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases. RevMan 5.4 and Stata 14.0 software were used for meta-analysis, a sensitivity analysis, the risk of bias, and the overall quality of the resulted evidence.

Results

Eventually, 10 articles were included in this meta-analysis. Dietary SM supplementation did not affect the endline blood SM level. When compared to the control, SM supplementation reduced the blood total cholesterol level [MD: −12.97, 95% CI: (−14.57, −11.38), p < 0.00001], low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level [MD: −6.62, 95% CI: (−10.74, −2.49), p = 0.002], and diastolic blood pressure [MD: −3.31; 95% CI (−4.03, −2.58), p < 0.00001] in adults without MetS. The supplementation also increased high-density lipoprotein level [MD:1.41, 95% CI: (0.94, 1.88), p < 0.00001] and muscle fiber conduction velocity [MD: 95% 1.21 CI (0.53, 1.88), p = 0.0005]. The intake of SM had no effect on the blood phospholipids and lyso-phosphatidylcholine, but slightly decreased phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, and phosphatidylinositol concentrations. Dietary SM supplementation reduced insulin level [MD: −0.63; 95% CI (−0.96, −0.31), p = 0.0001] and HOMA-IR [MD: −0.23; 95% CI (−0.31, −0.16), p < 0.00001] without affecting blood levels of glucose and inflammatory cytokines.

Conclusion

Overall, dietary SM supplementation had a protective effect on blood lipid profiles and insulin level, but had limited impacts on other metabolic parameters in adults without MetS. More clinical trials and basic research are required.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO, identifier CRD42023438460.
Historical context, process, and development trends of pediatric thyroid cancer research: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Song Chang , Luo Jia-Yuan , Pang Yu-Yan , He Rong-Quan , Li Xiao-Jiao , Chen Gang , Zhao Chun-Yan , Qu Ning , Chen Yan-Mei , Yang Li , Li Bi-Qi , Shi Lin
Published: February 2024

Objective

At present, the structure of knowledge in the field of childhood thyroid cancer is not clear enough, and scholars lack a sufficient understanding of the developing trends in this field, which has led to a shortage of forward-looking outputs. The purpose of this research is to help scholars construct a complete knowledge framework and identify current challenges, opportunities, and development trends.

Methods

We searched the literature in the Web of Science Core Collection database on August 7, 2023 and extracted key information from the top 100 most cited articles, such as the countries, institutions, authors, themes, and keywords. We used bibliometric tools such as bibliometrix, VOSviewer, and CiteSpace for a visualization analysis and Excel for statistical descriptions.

Results

The top 100 most cited articles fluctuated over time, and the research was concentrated in European countries, the United States, and Japan, among which scientific research institutions and scholars from the United States made outstanding contributions. Keyword analysis revealed that research has shifted from simple treatment methods for pediatric thyroid cancer (total thyroidectomy) and inducing factors (the Chernobyl power station accident) to the clinical applications of genetic mutations (such as the BRAF and RET genes) and larger-scale genetic changes (mutation studies of the DICER1 gene). The thematic strategy analysis showed an increasing trend towards the popularity of fusion oncogenes, while the popularity of research on traditional treatments and diagnostics has gradually declined.

Conclusion

Extensive research has been conducted on the basic problems of pediatric thyroid cancer, and there has been significant outputs in the follow-up and cohort analysis of conventional diagnostic and treatment methods. However, these methods still have certain limitations. Therefore, scholars should focus on exploring fusion genes, the clinical applications of molecular targets, and novel treatment methods. This study provides a strong reference for scholars in this field.
Case report: A case of unilateral combined central retinal vein occlusion, incomplete central retinal artery occlusion, and papillitis following a third dose of COVID-19 vaccination
Authors: Furukawa Ami , Suzuki Yukihiko , Nozuki Narumi , Kurosaka Naruki , Kogawa Satomi , Hara Shinya , Ueno Shinji
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to present a case of severe visual loss due to retinal arteriovenous occlusion and papillitis in one eye following vaccination against coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

Methods

A 45-year-old man undergoing treatment for hypertension had severely reduced visual acuity in the right eye 1 day after receiving a third dose of a COVID-19 vaccine manufactured by Moderna. Clinical examination showed that the best-corrected visual acuity in the right eye was counting fingers. Other findings included circumferential retinal hemorrhage, perimacular ischemic color, severe macular edema, and severe optic disc swelling, indicating the presence of central retinal vein occlusion, incomplete central retinal artery occlusion, and papillitis. Based on the possibility of post-vaccination inflammation and/or abnormal immune response, three courses of steroid pulse therapy were administered, and the visual acuity slightly improved to 20/1,000.

Results

Three months after the onset of symptoms, macular edema disappeared; conversely, retinal thinning of the macula and extensive non-perfusion areas mainly on the nasal side were noted.

Conclusion

The findings in this case suggest that inflammation and abnormal immune response after receiving a COVID-19 vaccination may lead to combined retinal arteriovenous occlusion and papillitis.
Subcutaneous anakinra in the management of refractory MIS-C in France
Authors: Dusser Perrine , Belot Alexandre , Bajolle Fanny , Kevorkian-Verguet Charlotte , Meinzer Ulrich , Huet Frédéric , Tiriau Soizic , Kone-paut Isabelle
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Multisystemic inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a therapeutic emergency and can lead to myocardial dysfunction (17%–75%) and heart failure (52%–53%). Intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG) and corticosteroids (CST) have been validated for the management of this condition. Recent reports suggest that an interleukin-1 (IL-1) receptor antagonist, namely anakinra, may be a valuable add-on to the 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) treatment for refractory patients. The purpose of this study was to describe the clinico-biological characteristics of patients treated with anakinra as well as the efficacy and safety of subcutaneous anakinra therapy in this condition.

Methods

The prospective multicentre study of children hospitalized for MIS-C between March 2020 and September 2022, including 23 international paediatric centres, followed for a mean duration of 3.072 ± 3.508 months. The patient data were extracted from the Juvenile Inflammatory Rheumatism (JIR) cohort. The clinico-pathological characteristics, cardiac ultrasound data, and adverse events were reported in patients receiving anakinra.

Results

Of the 470 children admitted with MIS-C, 18 French patients (50% girls) with a mean age of 10.06 ± 3.9 years were treated with subcutaneous anakinra. Anakinra was used in two situations, macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) (4 patients) and heart failure (14 patients) with a median left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 39.5% (30%–45%). The average dose of anakinra received was 2.53 ± 1.3 mg/kg/day for a median duration of 3 days. Prior to introduction, 78% (n = 14/18) of the patients had received CST and 56% (n = 10/18) had received IVIG. Only two patients received IVIG alone and six received CST alone plus anakinra. In 10% of cases, IVIG was poorly tolerated from a cardiovascular point of view and was discontinued. Transient elevations in serum transaminases were noted in four patients on anakinra without the need for treatment or dose modification. In all patients, rapid (48 h) improvement in myocardial function was observed (LVEF > 55%) with a concomitant significant decrease in myocardial enzymes (p < 0.05). All patients survived with complete recovery of cardiac function without sequelae.

Conclusions

Subcutaneous anakinra appears to be a safe and effective treatment for the management of heart failure or MAS in MIS-C patients. The value of IVIG in these two situations remains to be reviewed.