bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Work‐related asthma prevalence among US employed adults
Authors: Syamlal Girija , Dodd Katelynn E. , Mazurek Jacek M.
Published: April 2024

Background

Work‐related asthma (WRA), a preventable occupational disease, can result in adverse health outcomes and employment disability, including decreased productivity, lost workdays, and job loss. Early identification of WRA cases and avoidance of further exposures is crucial for optimal management.

Objective

We estimate WRA prevalence among US workers by selected sociodemographic characteristics, industry, and occupation groups and assess the differences in adverse health outcomes, preventive care, and lost workdays between persons with WRA and those with non‐WRA.

Methods

The 2020 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) data for working adults aged ≥18 years employed in the 12 months before the survey were analyzed. Prevalence, and adjusted prevalence ratios with 95% confidence intervals were estimated using multivariate logistic regression.

Results

Of the estimated 170 million US adults working in the past year, 13.0 million (7.6%) had asthma. Among workers with asthma, an estimated 896,000 (6.9%) had WRA. WRA prevalence was highest among males, workers aged ≥55 years, those with no health insurance, those living in the Midwest, and those employed in the accommodation, food, and other services industry, and in production, installation, transportation, and material moving occupations. Workers with WRA were significantly more likely to use preventive medication and rescue inhalers, and to experience adverse health outcomes and lost workdays than workers with non‐WRA.

Conclusion

Early identification of WRA cases, assessment of workplace exposures, and implementation of targeted interventions that consider the hierarchy of controls are critical to preventing future WRA cases and associated adverse health consequences.
Biopolymer‐based intelligent packaging integrated with natural colourimetric sensors for food safety and sustainability
Authors: Chiu Ivy , Yang Tianxi
Published: April 2024

Increasing concerns about global food safety and security demands innovative solutions, particularly in food packaging technologies. This review paper investigates the advanced integration of natural colourimetric sensors with biopolymer‐based packaging materials, with a focus on developments over the past 5 years. These sensors change colour in response to environmental stimuli such as oxygen, temperature, pH and relative humidity, intuitively indicating food freshness and safety. The paper emphasizes the recent advancements in using natural colourants, such as alizarin, anthocyanins, betacyanins, chlorophyll, curcumin and shikonin. When combined with either natural or synthetic biopolymers, these colourants contribute to a sustainable and eco‐friendly approach to food packaging. Such technological advances could notably decrease the incidence of foodborne illnesses by signaling potential spoilage or contamination, while also addressing food wastage by providing clear indications of edibility. Although challenges remain in sensor longevity and widespread adoption, the prospects for biopolymer‐based food packaging with embedded natural colourimetric sensors are promising.
Copper(I) complexes of acylthiourea ligands: structural insights and cytotoxic potential
Authors: Doss Periyanayagam Arockia , Dharmasivam Mahendiran , Swaminathan Srividya , Haribabu Jebiti , Echeverria Cesar , Bhuvanesh Nattamai , Karvembu Ramasamy
Published: April 2024

The reaction of substituted acylthiourea derivatives (L1–L4) with [(PPh3)2Cu(μ‐Cl)2Cu(PPh3)] in a proper stoichiometric proportion gave the complexes (1–4) in good yields. The structures of the compounds (ligands and complexes) were advocated through spectroscopic analyses and x‐ray diffraction (XRD) studies; the latter confirmed their molecular structures. The complexes (1–4) were assessed for their cytotoxic potential through MTT assay against A549, T24, and HepG2 cancer cells, and their toxicity was evaluated using Vero and MCF‐10a normal cells. The complexes (1–4) displayed better cytotoxic action toward HepG2 cancer cells than cisplatin. Complexes 3 and 4 significantly destroyed A549 cancer cells with the IC50 values of 16.25 and 4.90 μM, respectively, which were lower than that of cisplatin (IC50 = 17.73 μM). Furthermore, the higher IC50 values in normal cells showed that the complexes were less hazardous to the normal cells except complex 3. The biocompatibility study showed that the complexes had minimal impact on normal human dermal fibroblast (NHDF) cells. The mode of cell death of complexes 3 and 4 against cancer cells was evaluated using staining assays. Both compounds demonstrated a significant reduction in live cells, an increase in early apoptotic cells, and pronounced proapoptotic effects, as evidenced by fragmented nuclei. Flow cytometry revealed a distinctive subpopulation in the subG0 phase, highlighting the compounds' ability to induce apoptosis and inhibit cell cycle progression.
“On/off” switchable ε‐caprolactone polymerization initiated by rare‐earth metal complexes supported by ferrocenyl‐functionalized arylamido ligands
Authors: Ye Qiujin , Wang Yukun , Zhong Yi , Chen Yanjun , Chen Jue , Luo Yunjie
Published: April 2024

Redox‐switchable catalysis is an efficient process to modulate the activity and/or selectivity in the polymerization with greater polymerization control and precision. In this work, the ferrocenyl‐functionalized diarylamines 4‐Fc‐C6H4NHC6H5 (HL1), 4‐Fc‐C6H4NH(2,6‐Me2C6H3) (HL2), and 2,6‐iPr2–4‐Fc‐C6H2NHC6H5 (HL3) were prepared and used as pro‐ligands to obtain the arylamido‐ligated rare‐earth metal complexes. Treatment of RE (CH2C6H4NMe2‐o)3 with 1 equiv. of HL1–3 in toluene afforded the ferrocenyl‐functionalized‐arylamido rare‐earth metal bis(o‐dimethylaminobenzyl) complexes L1Sc(CH2C6H4NMe2‐o)2 (1), L2RE(CH2C6H4NMe2‐o)2 (RE = Sc (2), Y (3)), and L3Y(CH2C6H4NMe2‐o)2 (4) in good yields. The compositions of these complexes were verified by NMR spectroscopy and elemental analysis. HL1 and HL3 were subjected to single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. Electrochemical and NMR studies indicated that 4 could be oxidized with AgBF4 to generate the corresponding oxidized species 4ox, which could be facilely reduced back to 4 by use of CoCp2 as the reductant. The redox‐reversible ability between 4 and 4ox gave the chance to modulate the reactivity by switching the oxidized and reduced forms of one complex. For a controlled polymerization of ε‐caprolactone, 4 was active, and the polymerization process could be easily “on/off” switched by the redox reaction occurred on the ferrocenyl moiety.
Icariin alleviates renal inflammation and tubulointerstitial fibrosis via Nrf2‐mediated attenuation of mitochondrial damage
Authors: Ding Nannan , Sun Shanyue , Zhou Shuting , Lv Zhimei , Wang Rong
Published: April 2024

Tubulointerstitial fibrosis is an inevitable consequence of all progressive chronic kidney disease (CKD) and contributes to a substantial health burden worldwide. Icariin, an active flavonoid glycoside obtained from Epimedium species, exerts potential antifibrotic effect. The study aimed to explore the protective effects of icariin against tubulointerstitial fibrosis in unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO)‐induced CKD mice and TGF‐β1‐treated HK‐2 cells, and furthermore, to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. The results demonstrated that icariin significantly improved renal function, alleviated tubular injuries, and reduced fibrotic lesions in UUO mice. Furthermore, icariin suppressed renal inflammation, reduced oxidative stress as evidenced by elevated superoxide dismutase activity and decreased malondialdehyde level. Additionally, TOMM20 immunofluorescence staining and transmission electron microscope revealed that mitochondrial mass and morphology of tubular epithelial cells in UUO mice was restored by icariin. In HK‐2 cells treated with TGF‐β1, icariin markedly decreased profibrotic proteins expression, inhibited inflammatory factors, and protected mitochondria along with preserving mitochondrial morphology, reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial ROS (mtROS) overproduction, and preserving membrane potential. Further investigations demonstrated that icariin could activate nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) pathway both in vivo and in vitro, whereas inhibition of Nrf2 by ML385 counteracted the protective effects of icariin on TGF‐β1‐induced HK‐2 cells. In conclusion, icariin protects against renal inflammation and tubulointerstitial fibrosis at least partly through Nrf2‐mediated attenuation of mitochondrial dysfunction, which suggests that icariin could be developed as a promising therapeutic candidate for the treatment of CKD.
A narrative review on therapeutic potential of naringenin in colorectal cancer: Focusing on molecular and biochemical processes
Authors: Zamanian Mohammad Yasin , Golmohammadi Maryam , Abdullaev Bekhzod , García María Olalla , Alazbjee Adeeb Abdulally Abdulhussien , Kumar Abhinav , Mohaamed Sameer S. , Hussien Beneen M. , Khalaj Fattaneh , Hodaei Seyede Mahsa , Shirsalimi Niyousha , Moriasi Gervason
Published: April 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common and highly metastatic cancer affecting people worldwide. Drug resistance and unwanted side effects are some of the limitations of current treatments for CRC. Naringenin (NAR) is a naturally occurring compound found in abundance in various citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruits, and tomatoes. It possesses a diverse range of pharmacological and biological properties that are beneficial for human health. Numerous studies have highlighted its antioxidant, anticancer, and anti‐inflammatory activities, making it a subject of interest in scientific research. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the effects of NAR on CRC. The study's findings indicated that NAR: (1) interacts with estrogen receptors, (2) regulates the expression of genes related to the p53 signaling pathway, (3) promotes apoptosis by increasing the expression of proapoptotic genes (Bax, caspase9, and p53) and downregulation of the antiapoptotic gene Bcl2, (4) inhibits the activity of enzymes involved in cell survival and proliferation, (5) decreases cyclin D1 levels, (6) reduces the expression of cyclin‐dependent kinases (Cdk4, Cdk6, and Cdk7) and antiapoptotic genes (Bcl2, x‐IAP, and c‐IAP‐2) in CRC cells. In vitro CDK2 binding assay was also performed, showing that the NAR derivatives had better inhibitory activities on CDK2 than NAR. Based on the findings of this study, NAR is a potential therapeutic agent for CRC. Additional pharmacology and pharmacokinetics studies are required to fully elucidate the mechanisms of action of NAR and establish the most suitable dose for subsequent clinical investigations.
Tracking the Dimensionality Transition from a Three Dimensional Single Crystal to a Two Dimensional Perovskite
Authors: Cohen Idan , Wierzbowska Małgorzata , Aizenshtein Ben , Etgar Lioz
Published: April 2024

This work carefully studied the transition from 3D perovskite to 2D perovskite. Our system includes single crystals (SCs) of MAPbBr3, which were dipped in a solution of barrier molecules. Three monoammonium cations and one di‐ammonium cation were studied. Absorbance and cathodoluminescence were used to follow the formation of low‐dimensional perovskite on the SC surface. Quantitative nuclear magnetic resonance and scanning electron microscopy assist in quantitatively tracking the exchange process. We followed the barrier molecules′ concentration during the exchange process and their penetration depth into the 3D single crystal. The short aliphatic chain penetrates much farther into the crystal (ca. 450 μm) than the long aliphatic chain barrier molecule. In contrast, the process time is the opposite: the long aliphatic chain requires 5 days to achieve an equilibrium state compared with 15 days for the short aliphatic chain. Ab initio calculations indicate that the exchange process initiates due to the methylammonium vacancies on the surface, and the process is inhibited by the interactions between the −NH3 group and the PbBr2 planes. This work sheds light on the kinetics and thermodynamics of the transition from 3D to 2D perovskites, which is important for stabilizing the hybrid perovskites.
Pt(II)‐Phenanthroline‐Ln(III)‐DOTA d–f Hybrids as Small‐Molecule Theranostics
Authors: Brito Beatriz , Price Thomas W. , Bañobre‐López Manuel , Gallo Juan , Stasiuk Graeme J.
Published: April 2024

1,10‐Phenanthroline d‐ or f‐metal complexes can be utilised in biomedical applications such as imaging or therapeutics. Herein, we designed bimetallic d‐block metal‐phenanthroline f‐block metal‐1,4,7,10‐tetraazacyclododecane‐1,4,7,1,0‐tetraacetic acid (DOTA) conjugates as theranostic agents to simultaneously achieve both of these applications. Luminescence studies show the 1,10‐phenanthroline‐Eu(III)‐DOTA complexes displayed an off/on/off pH‐dependent switch, demonstrating their potential as pH‐responsive lanthanide luminescence probes. Relaxometry studies showed that the 1,10‐phenanthroline‐Gd(III)‐DOTA complexes present a r1 of 5.15±0.05 mM−1 s−1 and could thus be used as magnetic resonance (MR) contrast agents. Complexation of Pt(II) by the 1,10‐phenanthroline moiety resulted in quenching of the Eu(III) luminescence, but an enhancement of the Gd(III) relaxivity (r1=7.53±0.69 mM−1 s−1). Cell viability studies of the d–f hybrids in a cancer cell line showed the potential of these complexes as anticancer agents, as the IC50 for the Pt(II)/Gd(III) complex (IC50=24.9 μM) was lower than that of cisplatin (IC50=31.6 μM). As such, Pt(II)‐1,10‐phenanthroline‐Gd(III)‐DOTA complexes are promising theranostic agents for cancer therapy.
Children's bias beyond group boundaries: Perceived differences, outgroup attitudes and prosocial behaviour
Authors: Razpurker‐Apfeld Irene , Shamoa‐Nir Lipaz , Taylor Laura K. , Dautel Jocelyn B.
Published: April 2024

This study explored how children's perceptions of social group differences relate to attitudes and behaviour towards real‐world outgroups. We examined Arab‐Christian children living in Israel (N = 231, 52% female, average age 9.8 years) and randomly presented them with either Arab‐Muslim or Jewish outgroup targets. The children performed tasks measuring attitudes and prosocial behaviour towards the outgroup. Additionally, they were asked to describe the differences between their ingroup and the outgroup target. We found that children favoured the Arab‐Muslim outgroup over the Jewish outgroup, and perceived it as having fewer dimensions of difference from their ingroup. Fewer perceived dimensions of difference correlated with more positive attitudes. By the age of 12, however, perceiving more dimensions of difference was linked to increased compensatory prosocial behaviour towards the Jewish outgroup. The findings emphasize the dynamic interplay between cognitive development and intergroup experiences in understanding children's prosocial behaviour towards different outgroups.
Early warning methods of chemical agent channeling in polymer–surfactant flooding reservoirs
Authors: Du Qingjun , Zhao Dong , Wu Jintao , Hou Jian , Wei Zhijie , Shi Lina , Zhou Kang , Zheng Haoyu , Zhang Jian , Liu Yongge
Published: April 2024

In the chemical flooding process, the premature breakthrough of chemical agents in production wells results in a large waste of chemical agents and increases the volume and processing difficulty of the produced fluids. The early warning method of chemical agent channeling can predict the strength of agent channeling in advance. The practice of chemical flooding shows that the production performance can be used for early warning of chemical agent channeling. In this paper, we analyze the relationship between cumulative oil production and cumulative polymer production of production wells in polymer–surfactant flooding. Three types of curves according to the enhanced oil production characteristics of chemical flooding, including convex type, S‐type, and concave type. We use the drop speed of the water–oil ratio and the rapid‐decline speed of water cut as early warning indicators to predict the channeling coefficient. A Latin hypercube experimental design method is used to design a polymer–surfactant flooding scheme with the main control factors of the channeling coefficient and early warning indicators. Numerical simulation is used to calculate samples of the channeling coefficient and early warning indicators under various conditions. The drop speed of the water–oil ratio reference value model and the rapid‐decline speed of the water cut reference value model are determined with a multiple regression method. A prediction model for the chemical agent channeling coefficient is established using the deviation coefficient of an early warning index. The method is applied in the Ng54‐61 polymer–surfactant flooding pilot area in the west of the Gudong Seventh District, Shengli Oilfield, China, and the error between the predicted result and the actual value is less than 10%. This research is helpful in taking effective antichanneling measures and improving the oil recovery degree of chemical flooding reservoirs.
Unlocking photocatalytic NO removal potential in an S‐type UiO‐66‐NH2/ZnS(en)0.5 heterostructure
Authors: Dai Wenrui , Wang Chenxiang , Wang Yi , Sun Jieting , Ruan Hang , Xue Yuhua , Xiao Shuning
Published: April 2024

The contamination of nitric oxide presents a significant environmental challenge, necessitating the development of efficient photocatalysts for remediation. Conventional heterojunctions encounter obstacles such as large contact barriers, sluggish charge transport, and compromised redox capacity. Here, we introduce an innovative S‐type heterostructure photocatalyst, UiO‐66‐NH2/ZnS(en)0.5, designed specifically to overcome these challenges. The synthesis, employing a unique microwave solvothermal method, strategically aligns the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital of UiO‐66‐NH2 with the highest occupied molecular orbital of ZnS(en)0.5, fostering the formation of a stepped heterojunction. The resulting intimate interface contact generates a built‐in electric field, facilitating charge separation and migration, as evidenced by time‐resolved photoluminescence spectroscopy and photoelectrochemical tests. The abundant active sites in the porous UiO‐66‐NH2 counterpart provide adsorption and activation sites for nitrogen monoxide (NO) oxidation. Performance evaluation reveals exceptional photocatalytic NO removal, achieving 70% efficiency and 99% selectivity toward nitrates under simulated solar illumination. Evidence from X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and trapping experiments supports the effectiveness of the S‐type heterostructure, showcasing refined reactive oxygen species, particularly superoxide. Thus, this study introduces a new perspective on advanced NO oxidation and unlocks the potential of S‐scheme heterojunctions to refine reactive oxygen species for NO remediation.
Application of standardized methods to evaluate the environmental safety of polyvinyl alcohol disposed of down the drain
Authors: McDonough Kathleen , Hall Maura J. , Wilcox Ashley , Menzies Jennifer , Brill Jessica , Morris Brian , Connors Kristin
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this research was to use polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) 18-88 as a case study to evaluate the environmental fate, ecotoxicity, and overall safety profile of water-soluble, nonmodified PVOH polymers used in detergent films. An OECD 303A Wastewater Treatment Plant Simulation Study was conducted with dissolved organic carbon as the analytical endpoint to evaluate the removal of PVOH 18-88 during wastewater treatment. During the plateau phase, high levels of removal due to biodegradation were observed (average 97.4 ± 7.1, range: 88%–116%). The OECD 303A study quantitatively verified that surface water is the dominant receiving compartment for PVOH 18-88 post wastewater treatment. Acute algae, invertebrate, and fish embryo (fish embryo acute toxicity test [FET]) ecotoxicity studies quanitified the 50% lethal/effect concentration (L/EC50) for PVOH 18-88. Due to the potential for the chorion to impact PVOH 18-88 bioavailability, both chorionated and dechorionated FET tests were conducted. L/EC50 > 1000 mg/L for FET (chorionated and dechorionated), invertebrate, and algae were observed. The Sustainable Futures (US) and REACH (EU) frameworks were used to evaluate environmental risk. For the US assessment, the Exposure and Fate Assessment Screening Tool was used to predict the single day lowest flow over a 10-year period (1Q10) surface water concentration and the seven consecutive days of lowest flow over a 10-year period (7Q10) surface water concentration and compared with acute and chronic concentrations of concern. For the EU assessment, the European Union System for the Evaluation of Substances was used to predict local and regional exposure concentrations and compared to the predicted no effect concentration. For both regulatory assessments, the exposure concentrations were >2 orders of magnitude below the effect concentrations. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;20:1693–1705. © 2024 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC).

Key Points

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) 18-88 was used as a case study to evaluate the environmental fate, ecotoxicity, and overall safety profile of water-soluble, nonmodified PVOH polymers used in detergent films. Polyvinyl alcohol 18-88 was biodegraded extensively during wastewater treatment. Low ecotoxicity was observed with measured LC/EC50s > 1000 mg/L. The US and EU environmental risk assessments predicted exposure concentrations were >2 orders of magnitude below effect concentrations, providing significant assurance of safety for PVOH 18-88 as a representative test substance for nonmodified PVOH polymers used in detergent films.
Identifying and interpreting gendered violence: Visual literacy in an audience reception study of Issa López' Casi Divas
Authors: DeFeo Dayna Jean , García Rebeca Maseda , Kılıç Zeynep
Published: April 2024

We present an audience reception study of participant reactions to gender‐based violence in Issa López' 2008 film, Casi Divas, chosen for its nuanced depiction of women grappling with several violences. Over three focus groups with 15 adult participants, we used Galtung's conflict theory to explore what participants identified as violence, and how victims should respond to violence in various forms. We find that participants have a narrow definition of violence, seeing it as an individualized act and therefore neglecting to consider its cultural or structural foundations. The participants' responses to violence largely reflected neoliberal values of personal empowerment and choice, resilience, and “leaning in.” We recommend critical visual literacy as a tool in the educational context to identify and address violence, to fight inequity, and to establish emancipatory discourses.
Predicting stroke risk after sepsis hospitalization with new‐onset atrial fibrillation
Authors: Myers Laura C. , Peltan Ithan D. , Thai Khanh K. , Kipnis Patricia , Desai Manisha , Devis Ycar , Clancy Heather , Lu Yun W. , Brown Samuel M. , Go Alan S. , Neugebauer Romain S. , Liu Vincent X. , Walkey Allan J.
Published: April 2024

Background

New‐onset atrial fibrillation (AF) during sepsis is common, but models designed to stratify stroke risk excluded patients with secondary AF. We assessed the predictive validity of CHA2DS2VASc scores among patients with new‐onset AF during sepsis and developed a novel stroke prediction model incorporating presepsis and intrasepsis characteristics.

Methods

We included patients ≥40 years old who survived hospitalizations with sepsis and new‐onset AF across 21 Kaiser Permanente Northern California hospitals from January 1, 2011 to September 30, 2017. We calculated the area under the receiver operating curve (AUC) for CHA2DS2VASc scores to predict stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) within 1 year after a hospitalization with new‐onset AF during sepsis using Fine‐Gray models with death as competing risk. We similarly derived and validated a novel model using presepsis and intrasepsis characteristics associated with 1‐year stroke/TIA risk.

Results

Among 82,748 adults hospitalized with sepsis, 3992 with new‐onset AF (median age: 80 years, median CHA2DS2VASc of 4) survived to discharge, among whom 70 (2.1%) experienced stroke or TIA outcome and 1393 (41.0%) died within 1 year of sepsis. The CHA2DS2VASc score was not predictive of stroke risk after sepsis (AUC: 0.50, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.48–0.52). A newly derived model among 2555 (64%) patients in the derivation set and 1437 (36%) in the validation set included 13 variables and produced an AUC of 0.61 (0.49–0.73) in derivation and 0.54 (0.43–0.65) in validation.

Conclusion

Current models do not accurately stratify risk of stroke following new‐onset AF secondary to sepsis. New tools are required to guide anticoagulation decisions following new‐onset AF in sepsis.
Long‐term outcome of high‐power ablation guided by ablation index in the treatment of atrial fibrillation
Authors: Mao Shaobin , Wang Leigang , Fan Hongxuan , Yang Ling , Wang Xun , Liang Bin
Published: April 2024

Objective

High‐power ablation has been widely used in atrial fibrillation (AF). However, there were many studies observed the outcomes of the short‐term follow‐up. This study aims to the long‐term results of high‐power ablation guided by ablation index (AI) in patients with AF.

Methods

Analysis of patients with AF, who first received high‐power (40–50 W) ablation, to pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) in the Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University from May 2020 to March 2022. All patients were managed perioperatively according to the routine treatment procedures. High‐power ablation was conducted under the guidance of our conventional power AI and baseline data, first‐pass PVI rate, ablation time, operative time, and long‐term surgical success rate were analyzed.

Results

A total of 83 patients with atrial fibrillation were enrolled in the study, with an average age of 61.62 ± 9.04 years, 47 male patients, and 49 paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. All patients achieved PVI, and the rate of first pass was 82%. The ablation time of the left atrial was 28.54 ± 9.11 min. There were no serious complications related to ablation, and only a small amount of pericardial effusion was found in 4 patients. During the follow‐up period of 26.36 ± 6.11 months, 8 patients were lost to follow‐up and the overall success rate was 84%, including 91% for paroxysmal AF and 71% for persistent AF.

Conclusion

High‐power ablation long‐term results appear a high freedom atrial arrhythmia, but further expanded samples are needed for controlled studies.
Near‐infrared fluorescence lymph node template region dissection plus backup lymphadenectomy in open radical cystectomy for bladder cancer using an innovative handheld device: A single center experience
Authors: Püllen Lukas , Costa Pedro F. , Darr Christopher , Hess Jochen , Kesch Claudia , Rehme Christian , Wahl Milan , Yirga Leubet , Reis Henning , Szarvas Tibor , van Leeuwen Fijs W. B. , Herrmann Ken , Hadaschik Boris A. , Tschirdewahn Stephan , Krafft Ulrich
Published: April 2024

Background

The extent of pelvic lymphadenectomy (PLND) as part of radical cystectomy (RC) for bladder cancer (BC) remains unclear. Sentinel‐based and lymphangiographic approaches could lead to reduced morbidity without sacrificing oncologic safety.

Objective

To evaluate the feasibility and diagnostic value of fluorescence‐guided template sentinel region dissection (FTD) using a handheld near‐infrared fluorescence (NIRF) camera in open radical cystectomy.

Design, Setting, and Participants

After peritumoral cystoscopic injection of indocyanine green (ICG) 21 patients underwent open RC with FTD due to BC between June 2019 and June 2021. Intraoperatively, the FIS‐00 Hamamatsu Photonics® NIRF camera was used to identify and resect fluorescent template sentinel regions (FTRs) followed by extended pelvic lymphadenectomy (ePLND) as oncological back‐up.

Outcome Measurement and Statistical Analysis

Descriptive analysis of positive and negative results per template region.

Results and Limitations

FTRs were identified in all 21 cases. Median time (range) from ICG injection to fluorescence detection was 75 (55–125) minutes. On average (SD), 33.4 (9.6) lymph nodes were dissected per patient. Considering template regions as the basis of analysis, 67 (38.3%) of 175 resected regions were NIRF‐positive, with 13 (7.4%) regions harboring lymph node metastases. We found no metastatic lymph nodes in NIRF‐negative template regions. Outside the standard template, two NIRF‐positive benign nodes were identified.

Conclusion

The concept of NIRF‐guided FTD proved for this group all lymph node metastases to be found in NIRF‐positive template regions. Pending validation in a larger collective, resection of approximately 40% of standard regions may be sufficient and may result in less morbidity.
Oncoplastic reconstruction with breast‐conserving treatment versus breast‐conserving treatment alone in the elderly
Authors: Ambika Menon , Lara Schwieger , Faulkner Heather R. , Toncred Styblo , Albert Losken
Published: April 2024

Background/Objectives

Oncoplastic reconstruction (IOR) performed in conjunction with breast conserving therapy (BCT) has been found to improve psychosocial well‐being, reduce hospitalization time, and reduce cost burden. Few studies have looked at the safety profile, complication rates, and overall outcomes in patients ages 65 years and older undergoing IOR versus BCT alone.

Methods

A retrospective, cross‐sectional, single‐institution medical record review was conducted of women diagnosed with breast cancer age 65 years or older who received IOR or BCT alone. Demographics, clinical data, and major and minor complication profiles were compared between cohorts.

Results

A total of 310 patients were included. Of these, 126 received IOR, while 184 received BCT alone. Age >85 was found to have a significantly higher risk for any complication and was an independent predictor for experiencing any complication (OR: 8.5, p = 0.015; OR: 1.06, p = 0.029). Major complication rates were significantly higher in the BCT cohort (16.9% vs. 7.9%, p = 0.023).

Conclusion

IOR in the elderly is a safe option and was not found to be a predictor of experiencing higher complications. Patients who are 85 years and older had a higher risk of complications, and future studies may explore risk‐benefit in that particular cohort of patients in which BCT is planned.
Nonresponse data in sexual well‐being among breast reconstruction patients—who are we overlooking?
Authors: Kim Minji , Vingan Perri , Boe Lillian A. , Tadros Audree B. , Nelson Jonas A. , Stern Carrie S.
Published: April 2024

Background

Missing data can affect the representativeness and accuracy of survey results, and sexual health‐related surveys are especially at a higher risk of nonresponse due to their sensitive nature and stigma. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the proportion of patients who do not complete the BREAST‐Q Sexual Well‐being relative to other BREAST‐Q modules and compare responders versus nonresponders of Sexual Well‐being. We secondarily examined variables associated with Sexual Well‐being at 1‐year.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of patients who underwent breast reconstruction from January 2018 to December 2021 and completed any of the BREAST‐Q modules postoperatively at 1‐year was performed.

Results

The 2941 patients were included. Of the four BREAST‐Q domains, Sexual Well‐being had the highest rate of nonresponse (47%). Patients who were separated (vs. married, OR = 0.69), whose primary language was not English (vs. English, OR = 0.60), and had Medicaid insurance (vs. commercial, OR = 0.67) were significantly less likely to complete the Sexual Well‐being. Postmenopausal patients were significantly more likely to complete the survey than premenopausal patients. Lastly, autologous reconstruction patients were 2.93 times more likely to respond than implant‐based reconstruction patients (p < 0.001) while delayed (vs. immediate, OR = 0.70, p = 0.022) and unilateral (vs. bilateral, OR = 0.80, p = 0.008) reconstruction patients were less likely to respond. History of psychiatric diagnosis, aromatase inhibitors, and immediate breast reconstruction were significantly associated with lower Sexual Well‐being at 1‐year.

Conclusion

Sexual Well‐being is the least frequently completed BREAST‐Q domain, and there are demographic and clinical differences between responders and nonresponders. We encourage providers to recognize patterns in nonresponse data for Sexual‐Well‐being to ensure that certain patient population's sexual health concerns are not overlooked.
Massed written exposure therapy delivered to veterans with posttraumatic stress symptoms on an acute inpatient mental health unit
Authors: Ennis Chelsea R. , Raines Amanda M. , Boffa Joseph W. , Shapiro Mary O. , Dornbach‐Bender Allison , Ferrie Mara L. , Fondren Alana H. , Vidaurri Desirae N. , Walton Jessica L. , Chambliss Jessica L. , Franklin C. Laurel
Published: April 2024

Written exposure therapy (WET) is a brief, manualized trauma‐focused treatment typically delivered in five individual weekly sessions. Given the brevity and effectiveness of WET, researchers have begun to focus on its delivery in a massed format. However, only one case study examining massed delivery has been published to date. As such, the objective of the current study was to examine the acceptability, feasibility, and preliminary effectiveness of massed WET among veterans with a trauma‐ and stressor‐related disorder receiving care on an acute inpatient mental health unit. Veterans (N = 26) were assessed prior to, immediately after, and 1 month following massed WET. Most veterans found massed WET to be useful and acceptable. Recruitment and retention rates suggested that the treatment was feasible. Notably, the results revealed statistically significant reductions in overall posttraumatic stress symptoms, ηp2 = .81, p < .001; depressive symptoms, ηp2 = .71, p < .001; and functional impairment, ηp2 = .42, p = .002. These findings add to a growing body of literature highlighting the preliminary effectiveness of WET across various settings, populations, and delivery formats. Limitations include the small sample size and uncontrolled design.
Characteristic Laryngeal Findings in Patients with Pemphigus Vulgaris
Authors: Hosoya Makoto , Tomisato Shuta , Matsumoto Nobuharu , Yabe Haruna , Takaoka Takuji , Ozawa Hiroyuki , Kono Takeyuki
Published: April 2024

Objective

Pemphigus Vulgaris (PV) is a rare autoimmune disease that could cause laryngeal lesions; however, only a few studies have described the localization of the laryngeal lesions associated with this disease owing to its rarity. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the localization of laryngeal lesions in patients with PV.

Methods

Fourteen patients with PV accompanied by laryngeal or pharyngeal lesions, who underwent flexible laryngeal endoscopy performed by laryngologists, were examined retrospectively.

Results

The arytenoid area was the most frequently affected site in the larynx, followed by the epiglottis and aryepiglottic folds. Vocal folds and ventricular bands were the least affected.

Conclusion

Lesions in the arytenoid area were observed more frequently in this study than in previous studies. This result suggests that a more careful inspection of arytenoid lesions in patients with PV is required under laryngeal fiber observation. Moreover, we proposed a novel classification system for laryngeal findings in patients with PV and a systematic observation method. This novel classification and method would be useful not only for determining the lesions but also for careful inspection in this field.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 134:3719–3725, 2024
Single‐cell RNA sequencing reveals inflammatory retinal microglia in experimental autoimmune uveitis
Authors: Liu Jiangyi , Liao Xingyun , Li Na , Xu Zongren , Yang Wang , Zhou Hongxiu , Liu Yusen , Zhang Zhi , Wang Guoqing , Hou Shengping
Published: April 2024

Autoimmune uveitis (AU) is a kind of immune‐mediated disease resulting in irreversible ocular damage and even permanent vision loss. However, the precise mechanism underlying dynamic immune changes contributing to disease initiation and progression of AU remains unclear. Here, we induced an experimental AU (EAU) model with IRBP651‐670 and found that day[D]14 was the inflammatory summit with remarking clinical and histopathological manifestations and the activation of retinal microglia exhibited a time‐dependent pattern in the EAU course. We conducted single‐cell RNA sequencing of retinal immune cells in EAU mice at four time points and found microglia constituting the largest proportion, especially on D14. A novel inflammatory subtype (Cd74high Ccl5high) of retinal microglia was identified at the disease peak that was closely associated with modulating immune responses. In vitro experiments indicated that inflammatory stimuli induced proinflammatory microglia with the upregulation of CD74 and CCL5, and CD74 overexpression in microglia elicited their proinflammatory phenotype via nuclear factor‐kappa B signaling that could be attenuated by the treatment of neutralizing CCL5 antibody to a certain extent. In‐vivo blockade of Cd74 and Ccl5 effectively alleviated retinal microglial activation and disease phenotype of EAU. Therefore, we propose targeting CD74 and CCL5 of retinal microglia as promising strategies for AU treatment.
The rising roles of exosomes in the tumor microenvironment reprogramming and cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Wu Yu , Han Wenyan , Dong Hairong , Liu Xiaofeng , Su Xiulan
Published: April 2024

Exosomes are indispensable for intercellular communications. Tumor microenvironment (TME) is the living environment of tumor cells, which is composed of various components, including immune cells. Based on TME, immunotherapy has been recently developed for eradicating cancer cells by reactivating antitumor effect of immune cells. The communications between tumor cells and TME are crucial for tumor development, metastasis, and drug resistance. Exosomes play an important role in mediating these communications and regulating the reprogramming of TME, which affects the sensitivity of immunotherapy. Therefore, it is imperative to investigate the role of exosomes in TME reprogramming and the impact of exosomes on immunotherapy. Here, we review the communication role of exosomes in regulating TME remodeling and the efficacy of immunotherapy, as well as summarize the underlying mechanisms. Furthermore, we also introduce the potential application of the artificially modified exosomes as the delivery systems of antitumor drugs. Further efforts in this field will provide new insights on the roles of exosomes in intercellular communications of TME and cancer progression, thus helping us to uncover effective strategies for cancer treatment.
miR‐1246 promotes osteosarcoma cell migration via NamiRNA‐enhancer network dependent on Argonaute 2
Authors: Yang Shuai , Zou Qingping , Liang Ying , Zhang Dapeng , Peng Lina , Li Wei , Li Wenxuan , Liu Mengxing , Tong Ying , Chen Lu , Xu Peng , Yang Zhicong , Zhou Kaicheng , Xiao Jianru , Wang Hailin , Yu Wenqiang
Published: April 2024

High metastatic propensity of osteosarcoma leads to its therapeutic failure and poor prognosis. Although nuclear activation miRNAs (NamiRNAs) are reported to activate gene transcription via targeting enhancer and further promote tumor metastasis, it remains uncertain whether NamiRNAs regulate osteosarcoma metastasis and their exact mechanism. Here, we found that extracellular vesicles of the malignant osteosarcoma cells (143B) remarkably increased the migratory abilities of MNNG cells representing the benign osteosarcoma cells by two folds, which attributed to their high miR‐1246 levels. Specially, miR‐1246 located in nucleus could activate the migration gene expression (such as MMP1) to accelerate MNNG cell migration through elevating the enhancer activities via increasing H3K27ac enrichment. Instead, MMP1 expression was dramatically inhibited after Argonaute 2 (AGO2) knockdown. Notably, in vitro assays demonstrated that AGO2 recognized the hybrids of miR‐1246 and its enhancer DNA via PAZ domains to prevent their degradation from RNase H and these protective roles of AGO2 may favor the gene activation by miR‐1246 in vivo. Collectively, our findings suggest that miR‐1246 could facilitate osteosarcoma metastasis through interacting with enhancer to activate gene expression dependent on AGO2, highlighting the nuclear AGO2 as a guardian for NamiRNA‐targeted gene activation and the potential of miR‐1246 for osteosarcoma metastasis therapy.
Robust dual‐angle T1 measurement in magnetization transfer spectroscopy by time‐optimal control
Authors: Graf Christina , Stollberger Rudolf , Rund Armin , Schweiger Martina , Diwoky Clemens
Published: April 2024

Magnetization transfer spectroscopy relies heavily on the robust determination of
relaxation times of nuclei participating in metabolic exchange. Challenges arise due to the use of surface RF coils for transmission (high
variation) and the broad resonance band of most X nuclei. These challenges are particularly pronounced when fast
mapping methods, such as the dual‐angle method, are employed. Consequently, in this work, we develop resonance offset and
robust excitation RF pulses for 31P magnetization transfer spectroscopy at 7T through ensemble‐based time‐optimal control. In our approach, we introduce a cost functional for designing robust pulses, incorporating the full Bloch equations as constraints, which are solved using symmetric operator splitting techniques. The optimal control design of the RF pulses developed demonstrates improved accuracy, desired phase properties, and reduced RF power when applied to dual‐angle
mapping, thereby improving the precision of exchange‐rate measurements, as demonstrated in a preclinical in vivo study quantifying brain creatine kinase activity.
Conflicting economic policies and mental health: Evidence from the UK national living wage and benefits freeze
Authors: Akanni Lateef , Lenhart Otto , Morton Alec
Published: April 2024

This study evaluates the mental health effects of two simultaneously implemented but conflicting policies in the UK: the National Living Wage and the benefits freeze policy. We employed the Callaway and Sant'Anna (2021) DID estimator to evaluate the heterogeneous policy effects, and we found that NLW leads to positive improvements in mental health. Also, we find the negative impact of the benefits freeze policy constricts the NLW effects. Our result is robust to the sensitivity analysis of the parallel trend assumption and the comparison group definition. Additional results support the psychosocial hypothesis that increased job satisfaction is strongly correlated with improvements in mental health. Also, we found evidence of substitution effects between work hours and leisure. Overall, our findings suggest that the effects of the NLW cannot be understood in isolation from the way the entire suite of policy instruments operates on earnings and liveable income for affected low wage workers.
Combined application of entomopathogenic fungi and predatory mites for biological control of Tetranychus urticae on chrysanthemum
Authors: Hernández‐Valencia Vicente , Santillán‐Galicia Ma. Teresa , Guzmán‐Franco Ariel W , Rodríguez‐Leyva Esteban , Santillán‐Ortega Candelario
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Most studies on efficacy of fungal pathogens and predatory mites against Tetranychus urticae have been done on individual species in the laboratory. We evaluated fungi and predatory mites separately and together against glasshouse populations of T. urticae on chrysanthemum plants. First, effectiveness of the fungal pathogens Beauveria bassiana (Bb88) and Metarhizium anisopliae (Ma129) was compared; then, effectiveness of the predatory mites Phytoseiulus persimilis and Neoseiulus californicus. Based on the results, N. californicus and isolate Ma129 were selected and evaluated in combination. In all experiments, treatment effects were assessed for eggs and motile stages of T. urticae.

RESULTS

The first experiment showed no significant effect of either fungal isolate on T. urticae populations, except on plants initially infested with 20 mites, where more eggs were found in the control compared to the fungal treatments. In the second experiment, both predatory mites were equally effective at reducing T. urticae populations compared with the control, regardless of initial T. urticae population density. The last experiment demonstrated that populations of T. urticae were reduced most when M. anisopliae (Ma129) and N. californicus were applied together, compared with the control and when each natural enemy was applied separately.

CONCLUSIONS

Metarhizium anisopliae (Ma129) and B. bassiana (Bb88) isolates did not have a significant effect on reducing T. urticae populations. Both predatory mites reduced T. urticae populations, regardless of T. urticae density. Combined application of M. anisopliae (Ma129) and N. californicus were more effective against T. urticae than the control or when each agent was applied separately. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Knowledge and perception of cereal farmers and extension agents on fungicide use in northern Ghana
Authors: Otoo James , Musah Ramat , Olita Toto , Ireland Kylie B. , Zerihun Ayalsew
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Agricultural pesticide use in sub‐Saharan Africa has doubled over the past three decades, with a greater relative increase for fungicides. As pesticide inputs continue to rise, so does the potential for the development of resistance. Here, we report on a survey conducted to understand pesticide resistance awareness, pesticide‐use knowledge and practices of growers and agricultural extension officers (AEOs) in the cereals growing‐belt of northern Ghana, with emphasis on fungicides. The results may inform development of strategies for improving pesticide literacy including resistance awareness, extension services and crop protection outcomes.

RESULTS

The survey revealed a low level of pesticide‐use knowledge for AEOs and growers. This was more so for growers with low education, predominantly women. Education level (and indirectly gender) influenced perceived effectiveness of fungicides and levels of adoption of cultural and agrochemical best practices. Only 28% of growers and 11% of AEOs practiced crop and fungicide rotations, respectively. More than half (53%) of the respondents indicated that fungicides used in northern Ghana are not effective.

CONCLUSION

Given the low level of pesticide literacy of AEOs and growers, training programs on best practice for the use of pesticides, with targeted initiatives for female growers, would improve crop protection outcomes and safety. The limited adoptions of crop rotation and repeated use of fungicides with the same active ingredients, along with >50% of respondents reporting ‘fungicides not working’ suggest the potential presence of fungicide resistance cases in growers' fields in the Northern region of Ghana. Further work is needed to determine the incidence of resistance in the region. It is recommended that a key policy priority should focus on understanding broader agrochemical‐use practices, crop losses and household‐level food security in the presence of resistance risks. © 2024 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.