bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relative brain size is associated with natal dispersal rate and species' vulnerability to climate change in seabirds
Authors: Constanti Crosby Laurel , Sayol Ferran , Horswill Catharine
Published: March 2023

The cognitive buffer hypothesis proposes that species with larger brains (relative to their body size) exhibit greater behavioural flexibility, conferring an advantage in unpredictable or novel environments. Therefore, behavioural flexibility – and relative brain size – are likely to be important predictors of a species' vulnerability to anthropogenic pressures and, ultimately, extinction risk. However, current evidence linking brain size to species' vulnerability and extinction risk is inconclusive. Furthermore, studies examining the relationship between relative brain size and behavioural flexibility have mainly focused on foraging innovations, whilst other forms of behavioural flexibility remain unexplored. In this study, we collate species‐specific information and examine links between relative brain size, rates of natal and adult dispersal (a measure of flexibility in breeding site fidelity), vulnerability to six anthropogenic threats and extinction risk for 131 species of seabird. We focused our study on seabirds, a highly threatened group that displays large variation in both relative brain size and dispersal behaviour. We found a significant positive relationship between relative brain size and natal dispersal rate, suggesting that relative brain size could enhance flexibility in breeding site choice in seabirds, consistent with the cognitive buffer hypothesis. However, this relationship does not persist when we consider adult dispersal, possibly reflecting constraints imposed by mate selection and knowledge transfer in seabirds. We also show that relative brain size is negatively associated with vulnerability to climate change. These findings have immediate application for predicting interspecific variation in species' vulnerability to climate change and identifying priority species for conservation.
A DOG’S LIFE IN THE IRON AGE OF THE SOUTHERN LEVANT: CONNECTING THE TEXTUAL AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL EVIDENCE
Authors: Sapir‐Hen Lidar , Fulton Deirdre N.
Published: March 2023

Studies of dog remains focused on the Iron Age southern Levant generally highlight their unique nature in the archaeological context, specifically in relation to their post‐mortem exploitation. Here we review the published archaeological and textual data to evaluate the current understanding of dogs’ roles in their Iron Age settings. The analysis reveals that dogs are relatively common in the archaeological record, having been reported at 66% of sites. This study further contextualizes this presence in light of their co‐occurrence with caprine and wild taxa. The significant number of dog remains indicates that they were part of the social matrix of a village. While dogs have been viewed as ‘unclean’ or pariah, based on certain textual references in the Hebrew Bible, we assert, on the basis of the archaeological record, that they were part of the life of the village, functioning as herders, guards and occasionally hunters.
First report of glyphosate resistance in an Amaranthus palmeri population from Europe
Authors: Manicardi Alfredo , Milani Andrea , Scarabel Laura , Mora Germán , Recasens Jordi , Llenes Josep María , Montull José María , Torra Joel
Published: March 2023

The invasive weed Amaranthus palmeri is spreading throughout Spain, with Catalonia being one of the most affected regions. For this species, acetolactate synthase‐inhibiting herbicide‐resistant populations have been reported, and now glyphosate resistance is also suspected. Glyphosate targets and inhibits the enzyme 5‐enolpyruvylshikimate‐3‐phosphate synthase (EPSPS), but A. palmeri has evolved different resistant mechanisms leading to plant survival. One of the most effective is the EPSPS overexpression due to copy number variation (CNV). Gene copies accumulate within the EPSPS cassette that is an extrachromosomal circular DNA displaying unique structural polymorphisms. This study aims to determine the response to glyphosate of a suspected resistant population collected from a roadside and investigate the resistance mechanism involved. The herbicide bioassay confirmed that 40% of the plants survived glyphosate applied at 540 g a.i. ha−1. No known mutations endowing glyphosate resistance were found at EPSPS amongst confirmed resistant plants, while in most of them (70%) specific molecular markers revealed the presence of the EPSPS cassette. All these results indicate that this population is glyphosate resistant and it is very likely that the EPSPS gene CNV is the main resistance mechanism. This is the first case of glyphosate resistance in A. palmeri in Europe whose introduction is likely due to importation of contaminated seed with glyphosate‐resistant Palmer amaranth from the Americas. This introduction poses a significant danger to summer crops in our continent.
Antibodies against hyaluronan oligosaccharides in xenotransplantation
Authors: Bello‐Gil Daniel , Olivera‐Ardid Sara , Tuzikov Alexander B. , Costa Cristina , Bovin Nicolai V. , Mañez Rafael
Published: March 2023

Carbohydrate‐specific antibodies are significant mediators of xenograft rejection. This study analyzed the carbohydrate specificity of antibodies in baboons before and after xenotransplantation of organs or injection of porcine red blood cells from hDAF transgenic pigs, using a glycan array with structurally defined glycans. Antibodies against hyaluronic acid disaccharide (HA2) showed the highest reactivity at baseline and rose after xenogeneic exposure. We also investigated in the serum of baboons that underwent xenotransplantation with either hDAF or hDAF/hMCP transgenic pig organs and Lewis rats after hamster‐skin xenotransplantation the specificity of anti‐HA antibodies on a glycan microarray representing HA oligosaccharides containing from two to 40 saccharides. Notably, the HA oligosaccharides ranging from 32 to 40 saccharides exhibited the highest antibody binding intensities at baseline in baboon and rat sera. After xenotransplantation, antibodies against HA38 and HA40 in baboons, and HA32, HA34, and HA36 in rats showed the highest titer increases. The changes of anti‐HA IgM and IgG antibodies in rats after skin xenotransplantation was also confirmed by an ELISA specific for HA2, HA24, and HA85 antibodies. Thus, xenotransplantation is associated with increased antibodies against HA‐oligosaccharides, which may represent a new target for intervention.
A Harder–Narasimhan stratification of the -Grassmannian
Authors: Nguyen Kieu Hieu , Viehmann Eva
Published: March 2023

We establish a Harder–Narasimhan formalism for modifications of $G$-bundles on the Fargues–Fontaine curve. The semi-stable stratum of the associated stratification of the ${B^+_{{\rm dR}}}$-Grassmannian coincides with the variant of the weakly admissible locus defined by Viehmann, and its classical points agree with those of the basic Newton stratum. When restricted to minuscule affine Schubert cells, the stratification corresponds to the Harder–Narasimhan stratification of Dat, Orlik and Rapoport. We also study basic geometric properties of the strata, and the relation to the Hodge–Newton decomposition.
Effects of hyperprotein diet on anxiety, haemodynamics and morphofunctional aspects of the heart of Wistar rats
Authors: de Souza Flander Diego , Fidale Thiago Montes , Pereira Talita Cristina Rodrigues , Mantovani Matheus Matioli , Deconte Simone Ramos , Moreira‐Silva Daniel , de Moura Francyelle Borges Rosa , Martins Letícia de Queiroz , Alex dos Santos Luciano , Medeiros Robson da Silva , Neto Marcos Luiz Ferreira , Resende Elmiro Santos
Published: March 2023

Anxiety is a mechanism preparatory to a response in situations of threat and danger, involving behavioural, affective and physiological factors. Protein‐based foods have a high concentration of amino acids which perform multiple functions, including in the biosynthesis of excitatory transmitters for the central nervous system. In recent years, adherence to high‐protein diets has been gaining ground in society, on the basis that it brings benefits to the musculoskeletal system and cardiovascular health. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of a high‐protein diet in a state of anxiety and to investigate morphofunctional cardiovascular effects of a high‐protein diet in Wistar rats. The experiment lasted 8 weeks and two groups of male rats were submitted to either a normoproteic or a hyperproteic diet. Anxiety was assessed using the plus maze test and cardiovascular morphofunctional aspects using transthoracic echocardiography and invasive measurements of femoral blood pressure. There was no statistically significant difference in the anxiety test, but the hyperproteic group was more agitated, with greater displacement during the test. Changes were found in systolic and end‐diastolic volume, left ventricular diameter in systole and heart rate, which were significantly lower in the hyperproteic group, and there was an increase in the thickness of the interventricular septum in diastole. The results showed no influence of the higher protein diet on the animals’ anxiety, body weight and haemodynamics.
A Hurdle-Based Learning Design Effect on Locomotion Pattern and Hurdle Clearance Kinematic Reorganization
Authors: Panteli Flora , Theodorou Apostolos , Smirniotou Athanasia
Published: March 2023

The study assessed the manifestation of a regulated locomotion pattern while clearing the first two hurdles during running. In addition, the effect of a hurdles’ learning design, using specific activities and manipulated task constraints, on regulation strategies and kinematic reorganization was examined. Pre- and posttests were conducted. Twenty-four young athletes were randomly assigned into an experimental and a control group, and performed 18 training sessions, consisting of a hurdle-based intervention for experimental participants and a more generalized athletics training for control participants. Different footfall variability curves were recorded, suggesting that young athletes regulated locomotion pattern to clear the hurdles according to their needs. Task-specific training contributed to lower values of variability for the entire approach run and to functional movement reorganization, affording learners to take-off further from the hurdle with a higher horizontal velocity, leading to a more flat hurdle clearance stride and to a significant hurdle running performance improvement.
The neuronal pentraxin Nptx2 regulates complement activity and restrains microglia-mediated synapse loss in neurodegeneration
Authors: Zhou Jiechao , Wade Sarah D. , Graykowski David , Xiao Mei-Fang , Zhao Binhui , Giannini Lucia A. A. , Hanson Jesse E. , van Swieten John C. , Sheng Morgan , Worley Paul F. , Dejanovic Borislav
Published: March 2023

Complement overactivation mediates microglial synapse elimination in neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD), but how complement activity is regulated in the brain remains largely unknown. We identified that the secreted neuronal pentraxin Nptx2 binds complement C1q and thereby regulates its activity in the brain. Nptx2-deficient mice show increased complement activity, C1q-dependent microglial synapse engulfment, and loss of excitatory synapses. In a neuroinflammation culture model and in aged TauP301S mice, adeno-associated virus (AAV)–mediated neuronal overexpression of Nptx2 was sufficient to restrain complement activity and ameliorate microglia-mediated synapse loss. Analysis of human cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples from a genetic FTD cohort revealed reduced concentrations of Nptx2 and Nptx2-C1q protein complexes in symptomatic patients, which correlated with elevated C1q and activated C3. Together, these results show that Nptx2 regulates complement activity and microglial synapse elimination in the brain and that diminished Nptx2 concentrations might exacerbate complement-mediated neurodegeneration in patients with FTD.
Retrospective Evaluation of the Association of Oxacillin MIC on Acute Treatment Outcomes with Cefazolin and Antistaphylococcal Penicillins in Methicillin-Susceptible Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia
Authors: Hess Kyle A. , Kooda Kirstin , Shulha Jennifer A. , Mara Kristin , Go John R. , Fida Madiha , DeSimone Daniel C. , Stevens Ryan W.
Published: March 2023

Antistaphylococcal penicillins (ASP) and cefazolin are first-line treatment of methicillin-susceptible
Staphylococcus aureus
(MSSA) bacteremia. Borderline oxacillin resistance (i.e., oxacillin MICs 1-8 μg/mL) is observed in strains hyperproducing beta-lactamases.
Niche Modification by Sulfate-Reducing Bacteria Drives Microbial Community Assembly in Anoxic Marine Sediments
Authors: Liang Qi-Yun , Zhang Jin-Yu , Ning Daliang , Yu Wen-Xing , Chen Guan-Jun , Tao Xuanyu , Zhou Jizhong , Du Zong-Jun , Mu Da-Shuai
Published: March 2023

Our model offers insight into the ecological properties of SRB and identifies a previously undocumented dimension of OM degradation. This targeted inhibition approach could provide a novel framework for illustrating how functional microbial taxa associate the composition and structure of the microbial community, molecular ecological network, and community assembly processes.
Supplemental Material: Geoheritage: Progress toward Preservation
Authors: Clary Renee , al. et
Published: March 2023

 Table S1. Geoheritage video and Story Maps, aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards Earth and Space Science Disciplinary Core Ideas, with suggested free resources from SERC Carlton Teach the Earth Collection.  
Orbital bone infarction masquerading as preseptal cellulitis in a child with sickle beta-thalassaemia
Authors: Alrajhi Furat , Jamjoom Hanan , Alharbi Suzan , Alrajhi Amir
Published: March 2023

Although several ophthalmic manifestations of sickle cell disease (SCD) are common, orbital bone infarction is rare. Orbital bones have less bone marrow creating an unlikely place to develop infarction. However, having a patient with SCD presenting with periorbital swelling should warrant imaging to rule out bone infarction. We present a case of a child with sickle beta-thalassaemia who was misdiagnosed with preseptal cellulitis in the right eye. Later upon review of the subtle signs of bone infarction in imaging, she was discovered to have orbital bone infarction.
Risk factors for cardiovascular events in patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia: protocol for a systematic review
Authors: Mansilla-Rodríguez María Elena , Romero-Jimenez Manuel J , Rigabert Sánchez-Junco Alina , Gutierrez-Cortizo Eva Nadiedja , Sánchez-Ramos José Luis , Mata Pedro , Pang Jing , Watts Gerald F
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia (heFH) is the most common monogenic cause of premature atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The precise diagnosis of heFH is established by genetic testing. This systematic review will investigate the risk factors that predict cardiovascular events in patients with a genetic diagnosis of heFH.

Methods and analysis

Our literature search will cover publications from database inception until June 2023. We will undertake a search of CINAHL (trial), clinicalKey, Cochrane Library, DynaMed, Embase, Espacenet, Experiments (trial), Fisterra, ÍnDICEs CSIC, LILACS, LISTA, Medline, Micromedex, NEJM Resident 360, OpenDissertations, PEDro, Trip Database, PubPsych, Scopus, TESEO, UpToDate, Web of Science and the grey literature for eligible studies. We will screen the title, abstract and full-text papers for potential inclusion and assess the risk of bias. We will employ the Cochrane tool for randomised controlled trials and non-randomised clinical studies and the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale for assessing the risk of bias in observational studies. We will include full-text peer-reviewed publications, reports of a cohort/registry, case–control and cross-sectional studies, case report/series and surveys related to adults (≥18 years of age) with a genetic diagnostic heFH. The language of the searched studies will be restricted to English or Spanish. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach will be used to assess the quality of the evidence. Based on the data available, the authors will determine whether the data can be pooled in meta-analyses.

Ethics and dissemination

All data will be extracted from published literature. Hence, ethical approval and patient informed consent are not required. The findings of the systematic review will be submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal and presentation at international conferences.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022304273.
Risk factors associated with cognitive impairment in patients with COVID-19: a protocol of systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Jiao Bo , Chen Mingyuan , Li Shuanger , Jiang Yingying , Chen Chan , Zhu Tao
Published: March 2023

Introduction

COVID-19 infections have become a global public health emergency. Although COVID-19 is primarily a respiratory disease, some of hospitalised patients exhibit cognitive impairment-related neurological damage. Using a systematic review and meta-analysis, we aim to investigate the risk factors for cognitive impairment in patients with COVID-19.

Methods and analysis

This meta-analysis has been registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews. From inception to 5 August 2022, we will search PubMed, Web of Science, Embase via Ovid, the Chinese Biological Medical Database and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) for relevant studies . We will also look for additional studies in the reference lists of selected articles. To ensure data quality and accuracy, only researches published in English and Chinese will be included. Fixed or random-effects model will be used to calculate the relative risk (RR) or odds ratio (OR) and 95% CIs for pooled data about dichotomous outcomes. We will also assess heterogeneity using Cochrane’s Q and I2tests. Cognitive impairment RR or OR is the primary outcome.

Ethics and dissemination

Data will be extracted from published studies, so ethical approval is not required. The outcomes of this meta-analysis will be published in a journal with peer review.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022351011.
Cognitive and mental fatigue in chronic pain: cognitive functions, emotional aspects, biomarkers and neuronal correlates—protocol for a descriptive cross-sectional study
Authors: Möller Marika C , Berginström Nils , Ghafouri Bijar , Holmqvist Anna , Löfgren Monika , Nordin Love , Stålnacke Britt-Marie
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Chronic pain (CP) is one of the most frequently presenting conditions in health care and many patients with CP report mental fatigue and a decline in cognitive functioning. However, the underlying mechanisms are still unknown.

Methods and analysis

This study protocol describes a cross-sectional study aimed at investigating the presence of self-rated mental fatigue, objectively measured cognitive fatigability and executive functions and their relation to other cognitive functions, inflammatory biomarkers and brain connectivity in patients with CP. We will control for pain-related factors such as pain intensity and secondary factors such as sleep disturbances and psychological well-being. Two hundred patients 18–50 years with CP will be recruited for a neuropsychological investigation at two outpatient study centres in Sweden. The patients are compared with 36 healthy controls. Of these, 36 patients and 36 controls will undergo blood sampling for inflammatory markers, and of these, 24 female patients and 22 female controls, between 18 and 45 years, will undergo an functional MRI investigation. Primary outcomes are cognitive fatigability, executive inhibition, imaging and inflammatory markers. Secondary outcomes include self-rated fatigue, verbal fluency and working memory. The study provides an approach to study fatigue and cognitive functions in CP with objective measurements and may demonstrate new models of fatigue and cognition in CP.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been approved by the Swedish Ethics Review Board (Dnr 2018/424-31; 2018/1235–32; 2018/2395–32; 2019–66148; 2022-02838-02). All patients gave written informed consent to participate in the study. The study findings will be disseminated through publications in journals within the fields of pain, neuropsychology and rehabilitation. Results will be spread at relevant national and international conferences, meetings and expert forums. The results will be shared with user organisations and their members as well as relevant policymakers.

Trial registration number

NCT05452915.
Effects of a computerised diagnostic decision support tool on diagnostic quality in emergency departments: study protocol of the DDx-BRO multicentre cluster randomised cross-over trial
Authors: Marcin Thimo , Hautz Stefanie C , Singh Hardeep , Zwaan Laura , Schwappach David , Krummrey Gert , Schauber Stefan K , Nendaz Mathieu , Exadaktylos Aristomenis Konstantinos , Müller Martin , Lambrigger Cornelia , Sauter Thomas C , Lindner Gregor , Bosbach Simon , Griesshammer Ines , Hautz Wolf E
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Computerised diagnostic decision support systems (CDDS) suggesting differential diagnoses to physicians aim to improve clinical reasoning and diagnostic quality. However, controlled clinical trials investigating their effectiveness and safety are absent and the consequences of its use in clinical practice are unknown. We aim to investigate the effect of CDDS use in the emergency department (ED) on diagnostic quality, workflow, resource consumption and patient outcomes.

Methods and analysis

This is a multicentre, outcome assessor and patient-blinded, cluster-randomised, multiperiod crossover superiority trial. A validated differential diagnosis generator will be implemented in four EDs and randomly allocated to a sequence of six alternating intervention and control periods. During intervention periods, the treating ED physician will be asked to consult the CDDS at least once during diagnostic workup. During control periods, physicians will not have access to the CDDS and diagnostic workup will follow usual clinical care. Key inclusion criteria will be patients’ presentation to the ED with either fever, abdominal pain, syncope or a non-specific complaint as chief complaint. The primary outcome is a binary diagnostic quality risk score composed of presence of an unscheduled medical care after discharge, change in diagnosis or death during time of follow-up or an unexpected upscale in care within 24 hours after hospital admission. Time of follow-up is 14 days. At least 1184 patients will be included. Secondary outcomes include length of hospital stay, diagnostics and data regarding CDDS usage, physicians’ confidence calibration and diagnostic workflow. Statistical analysis will use general linear mixed modelling methods.

Ethics and dissemination

Approved by the cantonal ethics committee of canton Berne (2022-D0002) and Swissmedic, the Swiss national regulatory authority on medical devices. Study results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals, open repositories and the network of investigators and the expert and patients advisory board.

Trial registration number

NCT05346523.
Types of diagnostic errors reported by paediatric emergency providers in a global paediatric emergency care research network
Authors: Mahajan Prashant , Grubenhoff Joseph A , Cranford Jim , Bhatt Maala , Chamberlain James M , Chang Todd , Lyttle Mark , Oostenbrink Rianne , Roland Damian , Ruddy Richard M , Shaw Kathy N , Zuniga Robert Velasco , Belle Apoorva , Kuppermann Nathan , Singh Hardeep
Published: March 2023

Background

Diagnostic errors, reframed as missed opportunities for improving diagnosis (MOIDs), are poorly understood in the paediatric emergency department (ED) setting. We investigated the clinical experience, harm and contributing factors related to MOIDs reported by physicians working in paediatric EDs.

Methods

We developed a web-based survey in which physicians participating in the international Paediatric Emergency Research Network representing five out of six WHO regions, described examples of MOIDs involving their own or a colleague’s patients. Respondents provided case summaries and answered questions regarding harm and factors contributing to the event.

Results

Of 1594 physicians surveyed, 412 (25.8%) responded (mean age=43 years (SD=9.2), 42.0% female, mean years in practice=12 (SD=9.0)). Patient presentations involving MOIDs had common undifferentiated symptoms at initial presentation, including abdominal pain (21.1%), fever (17.2%) and vomiting (16.5%). Patients were discharged from the ED with commonly reported diagnoses, including acute gastroenteritis (16.7%), viral syndrome (10.2%) and constipation (7.0%). Most reported MOIDs (65%) were detected on ED return visits (46% within 24 hours and 76% within 72 hours). The most common reported MOID was appendicitis (11.4%), followed by brain tumour (4.4%), meningitis (4.4%) and non-accidental trauma (4.1%). More than half (59.1%) of the reported MOIDs involved the patient/parent–provider encounter (eg, misinterpreted/ignored history or an incomplete/inadequate physical examination). Types of MOIDs and contributing factors did not differ significantly between countries. More than half of patients had either moderate (48.7%) or major (10%) harm due to the MOID.

Conclusions

An international cohort of paediatric ED physicians reported several MOIDs, often in children who presented to the ED with common undifferentiated symptoms. Many of these were related to patient/parent–provider interaction factors such as suboptimal history and physical examination. Physicians’ personal experiences offer an underexplored source for investigating and mitigating diagnostic errors in the paediatric ED.
Targeting tumor vasculature to improve antitumor activity of T cells armed ex vivo with T cell engaging bispecific antibody
Authors: Park Jeong A , Espinosa-Cotton Madelyn , Guo Hong-fen , Monette Sebastien , Cheung Nai-Kong V
Published: March 2023

Background

Success of T cell immunotherapy hinges on the tumor microenvironment (TME), and abnormal tumor vasculature is a hallmark of most solid tumors and associated with immune evasion. The efficacy of T cell engaging bispecific antibody (BsAb) treatment relies on the successful trafficking and cytolytic activity of T cells in solid tumors. Normalization of tumor vasculature using vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) blockades could improve efficacy of BsAb-based T cell immunotherapy.

Methods

Anti-human VEGF (bevacizumab, BVZ) or anti-mouse VEGFR2 antibody (DC101) was used as VEGF blockade, and ex vivo armed T cells (EATs) carrying anti-GD2, anti-HER2, or anti-glypican3 (GPC3) IgG-(L)-scFv platformed BsAb were used. BsAb-driven intratumoral T cell infiltration and in vivo antitumor response were evaluated using cancer cell line-derived xenografts (CDXs) or patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) carried out in BALB-Rag2-/-IL-2R-γc-KO (BRG) mice. VEGF expression on human cancer cell lines was analyzed by flow cytometry, and VEGF levels in mouse serum were measured using VEGF Quantikine ELISA Kit. Tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) were evaluated using flow cytometry and by bioluminescence; both TILs and tumor vasculature were studied using immunohistochemistry.

Results

VEGF expression on cancer cell lines increased with seeding density in vitro. BVZ significantly reduced serum VEGF levels in mice. BVZ or DC101 increased high endothelial venules (HEVs) in the TME and substantially enhanced (2.1–8.1 fold) BsAb-driven T cell infiltration into neuroblastoma and osteosarcoma xenografts, which was preferential for CD8(+) TILs versus CD4(+) TILs, leading to superior antitumor effects in multiple CDX and PDX tumor models without added toxicities.

Conclusions

VEGF blockade using specific antibodies against VEGF or VEGFR2 increased HEVs in the TME and cytotoxic CD8(+) TILs, significantly improving the therapeutic efficacy of EAT strategies in preclinical models, supporting the clinical investigation of VEGF blockades to further enhance BsAb-based T cell immunotherapies.
Risk of relapse of ANCA-associated vasculitis among patients homozygous for the proteinase 3 gene Val119Ile polymorphism
Authors: Casal Moura Marta , Deng Zuoming , Brooks Stephen R , Tew Wei , Fervenza Fernando C , Kallenberg Cees G M , Langford Carol A , Merkel Peter A , Monach Paul A , Seo Philip , Spiera Robert F , St Clair E William , Stone John H , Prunotto Marco , Grayson Peter C , Specks Ulrich
Published: March 2023

Background

The frequency of proteinase 3 gene (PRTN3) polymorphisms in patients with antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) is not fully characterised. We hypothesise that the presence of a PRTN3 gene polymorphism (single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs351111) is relevant for clinical outcomes.

Methods

DNA variant calling for SNP rs351111 (chr.19:844020, c.355G>A) in PRTN3 gene assessed the allelic frequency in patients with PR3-AAV included in the Rituximab in ANCA-Associated Vasculitis trial. This was followed by RNA-seq variant calling to characterise the mRNA expression. We compared clinical outcomes between patients homozygous for PRTN3-Ile119or PRTN3-Val119.

Results

Whole blood samples for DNA calling were available in 188 patients. 75 patients with PR3-AAV had the allelic variant: 62 heterozygous PRTN3-Val119Ile and 13 homozygous for PRTN3-Ile119. RNA-seq was available for 89 patients and mRNA corresponding to the allelic variant was found in 32 patients with PR3-AAV: 25 heterozygous PRTN3-Val119Ile and 7 homozygous for PRTN3-Ile119. The agreement between the DNA calling results and mRNA expression of the 86 patients analysed by both methods was 100%. We compared the clinical outcomes of 64 patients with PR3-AAV: 51 homozygous for PRTN3-Val119and 13 homozygous for PRTN3-Ile119. The frequency of severe flares at 18 months in homozygous PRTN3-Ile119was significantly higher when compared with homozygous PRTN3-Val119(46.2% vs 19.6%, p=0.048). Multivariate analysis identified homozygous PR3-Ile119as main predictor of severe relapse (HR 4.67, 95% CI 1.16 to 18.86, p=0.030).

Conclusion

In patients with PR3-AAV, homozygosity for PRTN3-Val119Ile polymorphism appears associated with higher frequency of severe relapse. Further studies are necessary to better understand the association of this observation with the risk of severe relapse.
Amiata donkey body conformation, udder characteristics, and their relationship with milk yield and quality
Authors: Salari Federica , Altomonte Iolanda , Boselli Carlo , Martini Mina
Published: March 2023

To date, no selective actions have been taken to improve milk traits in dairy donkeys, and the characteristics of the udder are not well defined in relation to the productive characteristics. This study aimed at increasing knowledge on Amiata dairy donkey body conformation, udder traits, and their relationship with milk yield and quality. Morphological, udder, and teat measurements and milk evaluations of 45 pluriparous jennies were carried out. The average wither height of the jennies was 126 cm and the chest girth was 148 cm; a large standard deviation of some body measurements was found. Forty-nine percent of the animals showed a moderately developed udder, while most of the jennies had symmetrical half-udders (96%) and the intermammary cleft was clearly visible in 53% of subjects. Correlation analysis indicated that bigger animals tend to have bigger udders, higher teat diameter, and greater distance between teat tips. A positive correlation between the teat length and the milk fat was found ( p < 0.01), which suggests that jennies with longer teats have a better ability to release milk fat. The results of this paper may be useful to define the characteristics of the milking device and address selective choices of the animals.
Catch-23: The New C Standard Sets the World on Fire
Authors: Kelly Terence , Pan Yekai
Published: March 2023

A new major revision of the C programming language standard is nearly upon us. C23 introduces pleasant conveniences, retains venerable traps for the unwary, and innovates a gratuitous catastrophe. A few steps forward, much sideways shuffling, and a drunken backward stumble into the fireplace come together in the official dance of C standardization, the Whiskey Tango Foxtrot.
An Innovative Process for the Direct Recovery of Lead from Waste Lead Paste
Authors: Xie Sen , Qin Songyan , Su Zihan , Feng Xin , Zhao Lixin
Published: March 2023

A new process was proposed to recover high-purity lead by direct electrolysis in a sulfuric acid electrolyte without changing the composition of the cathode products. Compacting the waste lead paste products from suspension electrolysis significantly enhanced the conductivity of the cathode products. The dynamic reduction mechanism and microscopic morphological changes of the cathode product during compaction electrolysis was investigated. Compared with the direct compaction process (3.71 W·h/g), the electrolysis using precursors (1.91 W·h/g) could significantly reduce energy consumption, and the recovery of metallic lead reached 97. 12%. Meanwhile, suspension electrolysis was favorable for producing the active intermediate BS(PbO) (PbSO4), and the electrolyte could be recovered to collect H2SO4 during the entire electrolysis process. This innovative technology may provide an efficient, convenient, environmentally friendly and low-cost process for recovering metallic Pb from waste Pb paste.
Continuous Growth of Carbon Nanotubes on Carbon Fiber Surface by Chemical Vapor Deposition Catalyzed by Cobalt with Thiourea
Authors: Wang Chengjuan , Wang Yanxiang , Jiang Haotian
Published: March 2023

The continuous preparation of carbon nanotubes (CNTs)/carbon fiber (CF) multiscale reinforcements was realized via one-step chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method. In order to alleviate the damage of CF caused by catalyst etching at high temperature, catalytic promoter was adopted to improve the activity of the catalyst, thus reducing the CVD temperature. By adjusting the cobalt-based catalyst system, the effects of thiourea concentration on the morphology, microstructure and tensile strength of CNTs/CF samples were systematically investigated. It was found that the length and quantity of CNTs were added as the thiourea concentration increased, and the graphitization degree of the sample increased at first because of the well-grown CNTs, and then decreased due to the formation of amorphous carbon. Moreover, the tensile strength of CNTs/CF multiscale reinforcements was improved, which derived from the enhanced defect repair function of synthesized CNTs. Remarkably, CNTs/CF-0.02 exhibited a high single-filament tensile strength value (up to 4.51 GPa), which was about 6.6% higher than that of Desized cf Besides, the crystal structure and composition of reduced catalysts were analyzed, confirming the successful sulfur doping into cobalt particles. Therefore, the work offers a facile, economical, and efficient route for manufacturing CNTs/CF multi-scale reinforcements at comparatively low temperature.
Eye movements disrupt EEG alpha-band coding of behaviorally relevant and irrelevant spatial locations held in working memory
Authors: Bullock Tom , Pickett Kamryn , Salimian Anabel , Gregory Caitlin , MacLean Mary H. , Giesbrecht Barry
Published: March 2023

Neural oscillations in the alpha frequency band support selective attention to visual items and maintenance of their spatial locations in human working memory. Here, we investigate how eye movements disrupt representations of item locations held in working memory. Although it was not possible to recover item locations from alpha during eye movements, retained location information could be recovered from select lower frequency bands. This suggests that during eye movements, stored spatial information may be represented in other frequencies.
Applications of nth Power Root Fuzzy Sets in Multicriteria Decision Making
Authors: Ibrahim Hariwan Z. , Al-Shami Tareq M. , Mhemdi Abdelwaheb
Published: March 2023

An nth power root fuzzy set is a useful extension of a fuzzy set for expressing uncertain data. Because of their wider range of showing membership grades, nth power root fuzzy sets can cover more ambiguous situations than intuitionistic fuzzy sets. In this article, we present several novel operations on nth power root fuzzy sets, as well as their various features. Besides, we develop a new weighted aggregated operator, namely, nth power root fuzzy weighted power average (nPR-FWPA) over nth power root fuzzy sets to deal with choice information and show some of their basic properties. In addition, we define a scoring function for nth power root fuzzy sets ranking. Furthermore, we use this operator to determine the optimal location for constructing a home and demonstrate how we may choose the best alternative by comparing aggregate outputs using score values. Finally, we compare the nPR-FWPA operator outcomes to those of other well-known operators.
Finite Element Model Updating of Bridge Structures Based on Improved Response Surface Methods
Authors: Zhao Ying , Zhang Jingjing , Li Dongsheng , Zhou Daocheng , Xin Dabo
Published: March 2023

An accurate and reasonable finite element model is essential for bridge structural health monitoring and safety assessment. To improve the accuracy and efficiency of the finite element model updating, this paper proposes a finite element model updating method for bridge structures based on an improved response surface method. By introducing the radial basis function as the augmentation term of the polynomial function, a response surface model based on the augmentation polynomial is established, and the fitting accuracy of the global response surface model is improved. The convergence speed and accuracy of the response surface model optimization solution are improved by improving the regression step and annealing strategy in the simulated annealing algorithm. The method is validated using the numerical case of a simply supported beam and the finite element model of the main bridge of the Tonghe Songhua River Highway Bridge (Tonghe Bridge), and the safety condition of the main bridge of the Tonghe Bridge is evaluated using the updated finite element model. The results show that the maximum relative error of the updated parameters of the simply supported beam decreased from 13.011% before improvement to 0.719% after improvement, and the maximum relative error of the natural frequencies decreased from 0.728% before improvement to 0.225% after improvement; the maximum relative error of the natural frequencies of the finite element model of the Tonghe Bridge main bridge decreased from 21.68% before improvement to 4.23% after improvement. In April, May, and June of 2021, the main bridge of the Tonghe Bridge operated well and had a good security reserve.
FPGA-Based Hardware in the Loop of Optimized Synergetic Controller for Active Power Filter
Authors: Bey Habib , Krim Fateh , Gherouat Oussama
Published: March 2023

This paper presents a discrete-time synergetic controller (DTSC) enhanced with ant colony optimization (ACO) technique for a shunt active power filter (SAPF). The developed controller is designed under MATLAB/Simulink environment; then, field-programmable gate array (FPGA) in the loop (FIL) technique is used to implement the DTSC model. The proposed DTSC parameters are optimally tuned according to ACO methodology. The DTSC-ACO should enhance power quality and eliminate grid current harmonics using an indirect current-controlled three-phase SAPF. Note that, the designed FPGA controller integrates the items needed to drive the SAPF. This digital implementation satisfies the hardware and recommended performance. In fact, it reduces significant resources and execution time. The experimental validation is carried out on Virtex-6 ML605 FPGA Xilinx Evaluation Kit using VIVADO processing. A total harmonic distortion (THD = 2.72%) is obtained for the grid current. Thus, the results obtained confirm proper operation of the developed approach. In addition, the proposed DTSC shows good dynamic performance during load step change and output voltage variation.
Perioperative Management of a Patient with Hemophilia C and Allergy to Fresh Frozen Plasma
Authors: Kianian Sara , Scorsese Giacomo , Zabirowicz Eric , Poppers Jeremy
Published: March 2023

Hemophilia C is a rare bleeding disorder characterized by a deficiency in clotting factor XI (fXI) and has no standard of care for preoperative optimization before cardiac surgery. Normalization of fXI levels in patients with hemophilia C can be achieved with fresh frozen plasma (FFP), which sometimes results in allergic reactions. We present a case of a patient with hemophilia C requiring coronary artery bypass grafting surgery who developed an allergic reaction to FFP. Our report underscores the balance between thrombosis and bleeding risks when devising a perioperative plan for patients with hemophilia C.
Chemical Composition, Antioxidant, and Antimicrobial Activities of the Leaf and Fruit Essential Oils of the West African Plum, Vitex doniana
Authors: Odoom Jahnissi Frimpomah , Aboagye Caleb Impraim , Acheampong Philipina , Asiamah Isaac , Darko Godfred , Borquaye Lawrence Sheringham
Published: March 2023

Vitex doniana (West African plum or black plum) is a plant with varying phytoconstituents and biological activities across different countries. In this study, essential oils extracted from the leaves and fruits of Vitex doniana cultivated in Ghana were investigated for their antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. The antioxidant actions of the essential oils were determined using hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), phosphomolybdenum, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assays. For both essential oils, the total antioxidant capacities ranged from 44 to 68 µg/g AAE, the IC50 values for H2O2 scavenging activity were between 87 and 242 µg/mL, whereas that for DPPH assay were between 322 and 599 µg/mL. The IC50 for the TBARS assay for both essential oils also ranged from 247 to 414 µg/mL. The antimicrobial activities of the essential oils were investigated using the broth dilution assay. The minimum inhibition concentration for the essential oils ranged from 12.5 to 50 mg/mL. Biofilm inhibitory activity was also evaluated for both essential oils, and the fruit essential oil showed a half-maximal inhibition of biofilm formation (BIC50) at 44.40 ± 0.6 mg/mL, whereas the BIC50 value of the leaf essential oil was 109.1 ± 0.9 mg/mL. The fruit essential oil was superior to the leaf essential oil in inhibiting the secretion of pyoverdine. Molecular docking analyses suggested that methyl cinnamate, ethyl cinnamate, p-menth-4-en-3-one, trans-α-ionone, benzyl benzoate, isobutyl cinnamate, and folic acid likely interacted with LasR and algC proteins, and hence, contributed to the inhibition of biofilm formation and pyoverdine secretion. Essential oils from Vitex doniana could, therefore, be exploited as a natural source of radical scavenging and antimicrobial agents and could be useful in the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic industries.
Table ST2 from Apolipoprotein E Promotes Immune Suppression in Pancreatic Cancer through NF-κB–Mediated Production of CXCL1
Authors: Kemp Samantha B. , Carpenter Eileen S. , Steele Nina G. , Donahue Katelyn L. , Nwosu Zeribe C. , Pacheco Amanda , Velez-Delgado Ashley , Menjivar Rosa E. , Lima Fatima , The Stephanie , Espinoza Carlos E. , Brown Kristee , Long Daniel , Lyssiotis Costas A. , Rao Arvind , Zhang Yaqing , Pasca di Magliano Marina , Crawford Howard C.
Published: March 2023

Table S2
Table ST1 from Apolipoprotein E Promotes Immune Suppression in Pancreatic Cancer through NF-κB–Mediated Production of CXCL1
Authors: Kemp Samantha B. , Carpenter Eileen S. , Steele Nina G. , Donahue Katelyn L. , Nwosu Zeribe C. , Pacheco Amanda , Velez-Delgado Ashley , Menjivar Rosa E. , Lima Fatima , The Stephanie , Espinoza Carlos E. , Brown Kristee , Long Daniel , Lyssiotis Costas A. , Rao Arvind , Zhang Yaqing , Pasca di Magliano Marina , Crawford Howard C.
Published: March 2023

Table S1
Figure SF7 from Apolipoprotein E Promotes Immune Suppression in Pancreatic Cancer through NF-κB–Mediated Production of CXCL1
Authors: Kemp Samantha B. , Carpenter Eileen S. , Steele Nina G. , Donahue Katelyn L. , Nwosu Zeribe C. , Pacheco Amanda , Velez-Delgado Ashley , Menjivar Rosa E. , Lima Fatima , The Stephanie , Espinoza Carlos E. , Brown Kristee , Long Daniel , Lyssiotis Costas A. , Rao Arvind , Zhang Yaqing , Pasca di Magliano Marina , Crawford Howard C.
Published: March 2023

Figure S7
Figure SF6 from Apolipoprotein E Promotes Immune Suppression in Pancreatic Cancer through NF-κB–Mediated Production of CXCL1
Authors: Kemp Samantha B. , Carpenter Eileen S. , Steele Nina G. , Donahue Katelyn L. , Nwosu Zeribe C. , Pacheco Amanda , Velez-Delgado Ashley , Menjivar Rosa E. , Lima Fatima , The Stephanie , Espinoza Carlos E. , Brown Kristee , Long Daniel , Lyssiotis Costas A. , Rao Arvind , Zhang Yaqing , Pasca di Magliano Marina , Crawford Howard C.
Published: March 2023

Figure S6
Figure SF5 from Apolipoprotein E Promotes Immune Suppression in Pancreatic Cancer through NF-κB–Mediated Production of CXCL1
Authors: Kemp Samantha B. , Carpenter Eileen S. , Steele Nina G. , Donahue Katelyn L. , Nwosu Zeribe C. , Pacheco Amanda , Velez-Delgado Ashley , Menjivar Rosa E. , Lima Fatima , The Stephanie , Espinoza Carlos E. , Brown Kristee , Long Daniel , Lyssiotis Costas A. , Rao Arvind , Zhang Yaqing , Pasca di Magliano Marina , Crawford Howard C.
Published: March 2023

Figure S5
Figure SF4 from Apolipoprotein E Promotes Immune Suppression in Pancreatic Cancer through NF-κB–Mediated Production of CXCL1
Authors: Kemp Samantha B. , Carpenter Eileen S. , Steele Nina G. , Donahue Katelyn L. , Nwosu Zeribe C. , Pacheco Amanda , Velez-Delgado Ashley , Menjivar Rosa E. , Lima Fatima , The Stephanie , Espinoza Carlos E. , Brown Kristee , Long Daniel , Lyssiotis Costas A. , Rao Arvind , Zhang Yaqing , Pasca di Magliano Marina , Crawford Howard C.
Published: March 2023

Figure S4
Figure SF3 from Apolipoprotein E Promotes Immune Suppression in Pancreatic Cancer through NF-κB–Mediated Production of CXCL1
Authors: Kemp Samantha B. , Carpenter Eileen S. , Steele Nina G. , Donahue Katelyn L. , Nwosu Zeribe C. , Pacheco Amanda , Velez-Delgado Ashley , Menjivar Rosa E. , Lima Fatima , The Stephanie , Espinoza Carlos E. , Brown Kristee , Long Daniel , Lyssiotis Costas A. , Rao Arvind , Zhang Yaqing , Pasca di Magliano Marina , Crawford Howard C.
Published: March 2023

Figure S3
Figure SF2 from Apolipoprotein E Promotes Immune Suppression in Pancreatic Cancer through NF-κB–Mediated Production of CXCL1
Authors: Kemp Samantha B. , Carpenter Eileen S. , Steele Nina G. , Donahue Katelyn L. , Nwosu Zeribe C. , Pacheco Amanda , Velez-Delgado Ashley , Menjivar Rosa E. , Lima Fatima , The Stephanie , Espinoza Carlos E. , Brown Kristee , Long Daniel , Lyssiotis Costas A. , Rao Arvind , Zhang Yaqing , Pasca di Magliano Marina , Crawford Howard C.
Published: March 2023

Figure S2
Figure SF1 from Apolipoprotein E Promotes Immune Suppression in Pancreatic Cancer through NF-κB–Mediated Production of CXCL1
Authors: Kemp Samantha B. , Carpenter Eileen S. , Steele Nina G. , Donahue Katelyn L. , Nwosu Zeribe C. , Pacheco Amanda , Velez-Delgado Ashley , Menjivar Rosa E. , Lima Fatima , The Stephanie , Espinoza Carlos E. , Brown Kristee , Long Daniel , Lyssiotis Costas A. , Rao Arvind , Zhang Yaqing , Pasca di Magliano Marina , Crawford Howard C.
Published: March 2023

Figure S1