bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Il DGA: inquadramento e cura nel percorso residenziale
Authors: Fontanella T. , Martinelli D. , Valentini F.
Published: October 2023

In community settings, the treatment of Gambling Disorder is based on a multidisciplinary approach, which takes into account the multidimensional aspects of addiction, which is treated from all points of view – medical, psychological, educational and social/family. The experience of the last 6 years of the Comunità Incontro Onlus has shown, both in individual and personalized treatment, and thanks to the therapeutic groups that out of 100 guests of the Structure, 32 gambling addicts were detected in the year 2022, of which 5 "pure" and 27 "non-pure", i.e. multi-addicted to cocaine and alcohol, demonstrating how awareness of this problem is underestimated. From the study of the Comunità Incontro, it emerged that at the beginning of the path in the community, the difficulty in understanding the reported problem emerges, since the idea that "sooner or later you win" still exists. It is important to work on awareness, to understand each of the player's perceptions and cognitive distortions. It is essential to work on personal acceptance of the pathology, on not fearing the judgment of the other, on the motivation for the treatment path. Group work proved to be important, as it starts from the experiences of the participants or from events that occurred in the previous days and tries to recognize the typical dynamics of gambling. The group experience has proved to be useful in allowing the participation of subjects with very low levels of awareness as well, since they are invited to compare themselves with the experiences of others without necessarily having to expose themselves personally. It has been shown that, thanks to community and individual and group therapeutic work, there is an increase in awareness, from admission to the following six months, but above all in the number of people who experience the ability to control impulse and reduce desire, as measured at admission, 6 months and 12 months after the start of the course, also with the aid of diagnostic tools.
Propiedades psicotécnicas de la Escala de Clima Emocional en habitantes del Estado de México
Authors:   Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Rodríguez Hernández Gabriela , Juárez Lugo Saúl ,   Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Cruz Calderón Karla ,   Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Flores Pérez Alejandra ,   Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México
Published: October 2023

El estudio analiza las propiedades psicométricas y la estructura factorial de la Escala de Clima Emocional (Páez et al., 1997). Se aplicó la escala a una muestra de 552 personas, habitantes del Estado de México. El análisis de confiabilidad indicó que la escala cuenta con una consistencia interna moderada (alfa = .64). Los dos factores encontrados se conformaron de igual manera a los reportados originalmente por los autores de la escala (clima emocional positivo y clima emocional negativo) y explicaron el 52.1% de la varianza. La escala mostró adecuada validez convergente con la Escala de Percepción de Problemas Sociales (Páez, Fernández, Ubillos, & Zubieta, 2004). Éste es el primer estudio que reporta las propiedades psicométricas de la Escala de Clima Emocional en México.
Experiencias perceptuales inusuales en el constructo de límite “fino”: su relación con la esquizotipia
Authors:   Universidad Abierta Interamericana, Parra Alejandro
Published: October 2023

De acuerdo con ciertas tradiciones ocultistas y esotéricas, y con determinados creyentes de la Nueva Era, el aura representa un campo de energía en torno a todos los seres vivientes. Sin embargo, un estudio psicológico muestra que las personas que han experimentado la percepción de “energías” o aura podrían tener mayor nivel de actividad imaginativa o propensión a la fantasía (Parra, 2010). Evaluamos aquí tres hipótesis: Las personas que afirman haber visto el “aura” (auropercipientes) tienen mayor capacidad de tener (1) experiencias cognitivas anómalas, (2) alta transliminalidad, y (3) límites “finos”. La muestra estuvo compuesta por 212 adultos reclutados a través de una lista de correo electrónico e interesados en temas paranormales. Estos datos se compararon en auropercipientes (n = 97) y noauropercipientes (n = 115). Se confirmaron las tres hipótesis y, además, se encontró que la transliminalidad era la mejor predictora de la experiencia de ver el aura.
Las fortalezas humanas como arquetipo de la humanidad
Authors:   Instituto Europeo de Psicología Positiva, Ovejero Bruna María Mercedes
Published: October 2023

En el presente artículo se reúne y debaten los artículos-comentario surgidos a raíz del ARTÍCULO OBJETIVO “Las fortalezas humanas desde la perspectiva de género: un estudio piloto en población española”. Se estructura el trabajo aunando los artículos sobre diferencias entre hombres y mujeres en las fortalezas humanas, actualizando dicha información, para posteriormente estudiar la relación entre las fortalezas y el bienestar, el rol del lenguaje a la hora de generar la psicopatología y la salud, y finalizar con los retos y avances de la Psicología Positiva, el modelo de fortalezas y la incorporación de la perspectiva de género en el estudio del potencial de las personas.
Cross-flow separation characteristics and piloting of graphene oxide nanofiltration membrane sheets and tubes for kraft black liquor concentration
Authors: SCOTT CHEN MA , SINQUEFIELD SCOTT A. , WANG ZHONGZHEN , SHOFNER MEISHA L. , NAIR SANKAR
Published: October 2023

Dewatering of weak black liquor (WBL) in the kraft cycle by evaporation is highly energy intensive. Membranes are an attractive alternative for energy-efficient dewatering, but existing commercial polymeric or ceramic membranes are either degraded in BL or have high capital costs.
Our recent works have demonstrated the engineering of graphene oxide (GO) nanofiltration membranes, their stability and promising performance in BL conditions, and preliminary scale-up into sheets and tubes. Here, we describe in detail the separation characteristics of GO membrane sheets and tubes under real BL conditions and crossflow operation. Recycle-mode piloting of a GO tubular membrane showed average “production flux” of 16 L/m2/h (LMH) and high rejections of lignin (98.3%), total solids (66%), and total organic carbon (83%), with no signs of irreversible fouling identified. A corresponding GO sheet membrane produced an average flux of ~25 LMH and maintained high lignin rejection of ~97% during a slipstream pilot at a kraft mill site using WBL with ~16 wt% total solids (TS). Finally, we piloted a Dow/DuPont XUS1808 polyamide composite reverse osmosis (RO) membrane for last-mile processing of the GO nanofiltration membrane permeate. The RO membrane showed a steady state flux of 19 LMH at 65 bar and produced ~0.02 wt% TS water product, which is highly suitable for reuse in pulp washing operations in the kraft process. The results have strong positive implications for the industrial application of GO membranes in BL concentration and other related applications.
Extensive function of green synthesized titania nanoparticles: Photodegradation of Congo red
Authors: Saikumari N. , Sudhakhar K.S.
Published: October 2023

Several extensive research studies have explored the advantages of green templates in the synthesis of structure and morphology-controlled photocatalytic nanomaterials. This paper compares the abilities of zingiber rhizome extract (ZE) and tapioca starch extracts (TS) in modifying the surface and optical properties of titania nanoparticles (TNP) synthesized by solgel technique.
The synthesized nanocatalysts were characterized using various physicochemical techniques. While zingiber (ginger) extract effectively promotes the formation of dual anatase and rutile phases, tapioca extract supports formation of the single anatase phase of titania. These two extracts were examined for the degradation of Congo red in the presence of sunlight. The photomineralization and recyclability of catalysts were evaluated through total organic content analysis. The easy recovery and reusability of zingiber and tapioca biomasses, along with good control over the growth of nanoparticles, enable them to be implicit novel green templates in the successful synthesis of photoactive mesoporous nanotitania.
The influence of thickeners on coating surface structure: pair distribution analysis and correlations to structure and porosity
Authors: WALLSTRÖM ALEXANDRA , JÄRNSTRÖM LARS
Published: October 2023

We investigated the relationship between surface structure and porosity of coated layers and compared the effects of three thickeners: carboxymethyl cellulose, polyvinyl alcohol, and an alkali-swellable emulsion. The pair distribution function, g(r), was used to measure the effects of thickeners on surface structure. The main objectives were to investigate whether the surface structure correlates with the structure of the dry coated layers and if pair distribution function analysis can be used to give additional structural information, compared with traditional methods. We found that the surface structure (of ordered domains) was not automatically determined by the bulk structure. Thus, the pair distribution function was found to be a powerful tool for characterizing the effect of thickeners on coatings. The surfaces of the coated layers were characterized with respect to smoothness (RMS roughness) and order/disorder (ordered domains). These two features seem to be governed by different mechanisms.
Paradigm Shift in the Management of Upper Tract Urothelial Cancer
Authors: Kabir Md Jahangir
Published: October 2023

Abstract not available
Bangladesh J. Urol. 2022; 25(2): 67-69
Povidone Iodine Intrarectal Cleaning versus Formalin Needle Disinfection for Minimizing Transrectal Prostate Biopsy-related Infections
Authors: Rajib Md Asaduzzaman , Islam Md Faisal , Enayetullah Imtiaz , Joarder Md Abdul Baten , Khanduker Adeeba
Published: October 2023

Background: A most feared complication of transrectal prostate biopsy is post-biopsy infection and/or sepsis. Safe intraprocedural measures that complement the antibiotic prophylaxis are intrarectal povidone iodine instillation or formalin needle disinfection after every core of the biopsy. Both are more effective at preventing post-biopsy infection than performing antibiotic prophylaxis alone.
Objective: To assess the effectiveness of povidone-iodine intrarectal cleaning and formalin needle disinfection to prevent infection after prostate biopsy.
Methodology: This study was conducted from July 2021 to June 2022 with 90 patients who underwent prostate biopsy at NIKDU. Patients were randomized into 2 equal groups, 45 in each group, by lottery. Two groups were Group-F: Standard biopsy, where the needle is disinfected with 10% formalin after each core, and Group-P: intrarectal luminal instillation of 10 ml 10% povidone-iodine for 10 min before the biopsy. Endpoint of the study was the development of signs and symptoms of infection within 7 days of prostate biopsy.
Result: In terms of age, S. PSA & prostate volume, there was no significant difference between the two group. Infective complications within 7 days of the prostate biopsy were observed in 14 patients (15.6%), 3.67 times more in Group-F patients (p=0.03), and a higher incidence of UTI (72.73%) was observed in Group-F (p=0.03) than Group- P patients. The incidence of septicemia, epididymal-orchitis, and acute prostatitis was not statistically significant between the two groups. E. coli was the predominant organism found on urine culture, followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterococcus faecalis, and proteus species.
Conclusion: Along with prophylactic antibiotics, povidone iodine intrarectal cleaning is superior to formalin needle disinfection in preventing infective complications of prostate biopsy.
Bangladesh J. Urol. 2022; 25(2): 80-83
Efficacy and Safety of Treatment Options for Large Upper Ureteral Stone
Authors: Enayetullah Imtiaz , Rajib Md Asaduzzaman , Rahman Mohammad Mahfuzur , Rahman Ashraf , Khan Sharif Md Shahadat Ali , Islam Md Faisal
Published: October 2023

Background: There are three minimally invasive methods for the treatment of large (>1 cm) upper ureteral stones: ureteroscopic lithotripsy (URSL), percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) and laparoscopic ureterolithotomy (LUL). With multiple surgical options, the controversy of choosing the best option for a given patient lies.
Objective: To compare efficacy and safety between URSL, PCNL and LUL to determine the best choice.
Methodology: This study was conducted from March 2020 to February 2022 with 120 patients who had upper ureteral stones admitted at NIKDU. They were randomized into 3 equal URSL, PCNL & LUL groups, 40 patients in each group. The primary outcome was a stone-free rate after 1 month of surgery, and the secondary outcomes were the duration of surgery, length of hospital stay, and complication rate postoperatively.
Result: Eight patients needed auxiliary PCNL after URSL and 1 patient after LUL, but none after PCNL. The stone-free rate was 78.1% (25/32) in the URSL group, 95% (38/ 40) in the PCNL group and 100% (39/39) in the LUL group. Operation time was the shortest with URSL and the longest with LUL (all p <0.05). Hospital stay was shorter in the URSL group compared with PCNL & LUL group (p=0.0001). Operation-related complications were almost similar among the three groups.
Conclusion: Laparoscopic ureterolithotomy followed by PCNL is the most efficacious modality for treating large upper ureteral stones with a superior stone-free rate and lesser need for auxiliary treatments compared to URSL.
Bangladesh J. Urol. 2022; 25(2): 93-97
Effect of sowing dates and cultivars on incidence of the exotic army worm Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) of maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Longkumer Bendangsenla , Neog Pankaj , Waluniba  , Devi H. S.
Published: October 2023

The Effect of sowing dates and cultivars on the incidence of fall army worm Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) and yield attributes of maize (Zea mays L.) was carried out with five  cultivars  namely, Zarsi (local), Sipho (local), Ronimi (local), Khoi (local) and HQPM-1 (composite) and three different sowing dates (6th March, 21st March and 5th April). Among the different dates of sowing, 6th March recorded maximum pest incidence, while 5th April recorded the least on maize. The interaction between sowing dates and cultivars showed significant effect on the incidence of army worm at different days after sowing. The maize sown on 21st March, recorded the highest grain yield (4.12 t ha-1). It can be suggested that manipulating the sowing date and growing of tolerant variety of maize such as HQPM1 can be an effective measure to manage exotic army worm infestation. Mid sowing of maize (21st March) and growing of local cultivars such as Sipho observed  significantly better yield attributes which will ensure higher economic returns to the farmers.
Prevalence of antibiotic misuse in cases of pneumonia and diarrhea in Saudi Arabia
Authors: ALmughais Ebtehaj Saud , Alreshidi Fatmah Fahad , Ahmed Hussain
Published: October 2023

Background: Antibiotic misuse is a major public health issue with long-term repercussions.
Objective: The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the effects of pneumonia and diarrhea, with an emphasis on antibiotic misuse.
Methodology: This study included 410 participants (217 fathers and 193 mothers), of whom 239 purchased antibiotics for their children without a prescription, whereas 171 had a prescription or were unsure if one was required.
Results: Antibiotics were used incorrectly by 58.1% of respondents. About 51.2% of participants said they were taking two antibiotics at the same time. Around 30% of people admitted to using antibiotics inefficiently. The most prevalent reason for use was “viral and bacterial,” followed by “viral,” and then “bacterial,” with 35%, 21%, and 20%, respectively. In addition, 22.4% of patients have used antibiotics for an unknown reason.
Conclusion: Saudi parents of children with pneumonia and diarrhea abuse antibiotics. Saudi legislation banning medications without a prescription has helped reduce antibiotic abuse, but more community-based education and awareness are needed.
Examining the effect of environmental variability on the viability of endangered Steller sea lions using an integrated population model
Authors: Warlick AJ , Johnson DS , Sweeney KL , Gelatt TS , Converse SJ
Published: October 2023

Understanding spatio-temporal variability in demography and the influence of environmental conditions offers insight into the factors underlying population dynamics. This is particularly true for species with divergent demographic patterns across large geographic areas. The contrasting abundance trends observed across the range of Steller sea lionsEumetopias jubatushave been studied extensively, with research suggesting that the primary drivers of localized population dynamics vary over time and space. We developed a Bayesian integrated population model for the endangered western distinct population segment of Steller sea lions that combines mark-recapture and count data from 2000 to 2021 to estimate demographic rates, abundance trends, and the effects of environmental variability on population growth. Our results highlight subregional demographic differences, including reduced pup survival in the central Aleutian Islands and reduced yearling survival west of Samalga Pass. Range-wide abundance increased by 1.7% yr-1(95% credible interval: 0.14 to 3.4%) over the study period, with a positive annual growth rate of 3.0% (1.1 to 5.1%) yr-1east of Samalga Pass, a negative growth rate of -2.1% (-4.6 to 0.5%) yr-1west of Samalga Pass, and an overall low probability of local extirpation (<2%) in 100 yr even in subregions experiencing continued decline. The effect of environmental variability on population growth varied depending on subpopulation size and vital rates and was strongest in the area of greatest decline. Our model improves upon existing approaches for estimating abundance, accounts for environmental variability within the viability analysis, and can facilitate evaluating the efficacy of conservation actions and progress toward recovery goals.
UKRAINIAN DIGITAL ART DURING THE FULL-SCALE RUSSIAN-UKRAINIAN WAR
Authors: SYDORENKO ANDRIY , CHIBALASHVILI ASMATI , SHALINSKYI IHOR , BERDYNSKIKH SVIATOSLAV , MAZUR VIKTORIYA
Published: October 2023

The purpose of the article is to find out how the full-scale Russian-Ukrainian war and today's technological innovations affected the artistic community, the themes and the creative methods of Ukrainian digital art. The authors of the investigation, on the one hand, consider the digital works of Nikita Titov, Albina Yaloza, Kateryna Lisova, Mykhailo Rai, Oksana Chepelyk, Yulia Shibirkina, Zibra AI, ZViT, Beata Kurkul and Maria Sharlai, and others, and on the other hand, they highlight the biggest events related to the demonstration of digital art, in particular, “Artists support Ukraine”, “Meta History: Museum of War”, “Peace Letters to Ukraine”, “Art on the battlefront”, “UBIENNALE”, “Ukrainian wartime poster”, and others. The analysis of the collected material revealed that the vast majority of war posters are works of digital art, which in general has become one of the leading media in the work of Ukrainian artists. On the one hand, this was the result of a number of steps taken by the Ukrainian authorities aimed at liberalizing the cryptocurrency market, and encouraging computer game developers to fundraise with the help of NFT in support of Ukraine, on the other hand, the threat of Russian air attacks prompted representatives of the creative class to transfer a significant part of their activity to online, and see the benefits of digital art, which, compared to most traditional media, requires significantly less effort and resources to create, securely store, sell and display. The use of neural networks as a tool to create digital art has become one of the trends in war-themed art, but no catastrophic changes for visual art and design have been detected yet. A significant historical event after February 24, 2022 was the unprecedented support of Ukraine from the world cultural community, in particular, international developers of computer games, as well as famous artists of contemporary art, including Marina Abramovych, Ron Arad, Banksy, Francesco Vezzoli, Nan Goldin, Douglas Gordon, Ivan Messak, Lorenzo Quinn, Luke Tuymans, and others.
EUROPEAN LAW AS A LEGAL SYSTEM
Authors: SŁOMSKI WOJCIECH , LISIECKI MICHAŁ , KURNICKI LESZEK , JAROSIŃSKI GAWEŁ
Published: October 2023

The article considers the main stages of European law-making, traces the historical development of the law of the European Union. European law is considered as a set of legal norms that regulate the relationships which develop within the framework of European integration associations. An attempt was made to reveal the role of the EU legal system in creating a political and legal space in which European legal and administrative norms operate; the structure and functions of the EU institutions are outlined in terms of assessing the degree of their supranationality. The main scientific and practical significance of this study lies, in particular, in the possibility of using its provisions to enrich the concept of the legal standing of international organizations.
Simple method for quantification of anionic biosurfactants in aqueous solutions
Authors: Sass Gabriele , Groleau Marie-Christine , Déziel Eric , Stevens David A.
Published: October 2023

Biosurfactants are microbial products that have applications as cleaning agents, emulsifiers, and dispersants. Detection and quantification of biosurfactants can be done by various methods, including colorimetric tests, high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled to several types of detectors, and tests that take advantage of biosurfactants reducing surface tension of aqueous liquids, allowing for spreading and droplet formation of oils. We present a new and simple method for quantifying biosurfactants by their ability, on paper, to reduce surface tension of aqueous solutions, causing droplet dispersion on an oiled surface in correlation with biosurfactant content. We validated this method with rhamnolipids, surfactin, sophorolipids, and ananatoside B; all are anionic microbial surfactants. Linear ranges for quantification in aqueous solutions for all tested biosurfactants were between 10 and 500 µM. Our method showed time-dependent biosurfactant accumulation in cultures of Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains PA14 and PAO1, and Burkholderia thailandensis E264. Mutants in genes responsible for surfactant production showed negligible activity on oiled paper. In summary, our simple assay provides the opportunity to quantify biosurfactant contents of aqueous solutions, for a diversity of surfactants, by means readily available in any laboratory.
First results of the biostratigraphy and geochronology of the classic Nihewan Fauna, China
Authors: Farjand Arya , Zhang Zhaoqun , Gibbard Philip L. , Bi Shundong
Published: October 2023

The Nihewan Basin is infilled by a relatively complete Pliocene to Pleistocene sequence, rich mammalian fossils and containing many Palaeolithic artefacts, implying that it is a unique location for Quaternary multidisciplinary study. Fossil excavations in these deposits have been carried out for nearly a century. The systematic study of the fossils by Teilhard de Chardin and Piveteau in 1930 laid the foundations for the classic Nihewan Faunal assemblage, which has been widely followed as a standard for the Early Pleistocene biochronology in eastern Asia. With the availability of magnetostratigraphic analyses on several sections in the Nihewan basin, a comprehensive geochronological study is timely pending. Here we report the results of a comprehensive survey of the Xiashagou section, where the classic Nihewan Fauna was discovered. By synthesising the lithostratigraphical, biostratigraphical, and magnetostratigraphical information, together with measurements taken by the authors, the total thickness of the Nihewan Formation in the Xiashagou section being 116 m. Furthermore, the geochronological study demonstrates that the classic Nihewan Fauna was originally recovered from at least 6 fossil horizons, spanning from ∼2.4 Ma to ∼1.8 Ma, i.e., the early Early Pleistocene. The new evidence from the Xiashagou section also suggests several cycles of fluctuations in the biodiversity and population of the classic Nihewan Fauna during the early Pleistocene. The preliminary correlation of these cycles matches the short periods of glaciation in the early Pleistocene.
Recent advances in primary cilia in bone metabolism
Authors: Lian Fenfen , Li Hui , Ma Yuwei , Zhou Rui , Wu Wei
Published: October 2023

Primary cilia are microtubule-based organelles that are widespread on the cell surface and play a key role in tissue development and homeostasis by sensing and transducing various signaling pathways. The process of intraflagellar transport (IFT), which is propelled by kinesin and dynein motors, plays a crucial role in the formation and functionality of cilia. Abnormalities in the cilia or ciliary transport system often cause a range of clinical conditions collectively known as ciliopathies, which include polydactyly, short ribs, scoliosis, thoracic stenosis and many abnormalities in the bones and cartilage. In this review, we summarize recent findings on the role of primary cilia and ciliary transport systems in bone development, we describe the role of cilia in bone formation, cartilage development and bone resorption, and we summarize advances in the study of primary cilia in fracture healing. In addition, the recent discovery of crosstalk between integrins and primary cilia provides new insights into how primary cilia affect bone.
Clinicopathological characteristics, evolution, treatment pattern and outcomes of hormone-receptor-positive/HER2-low metastatic breast cancer
Authors: You Shuhui , Gong Chengcheng , Li Yi , Xie Yizhao , Li Yumeng , Zhao Yannan , Wang Biyun
Published: October 2023

Objective

Despite the promising efficacy of the novel antibody-drug conjugate trastuzumab deruxtecan in treating Hormone Receptor (HoR)-positive/Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 (HER2)-low metastatic breast cancer (MBC), its categorization as a distinct entity remains disputed, as does the divergence in its endocrine and chemotherapy outcomes. This study aimed to elucidate the clinical characteristics, primary/metastatic lesion HER2 expression, and treatment outcomes of HoR-positive/HER2-low patients.

Methods

We included HoR-positive/HER2-negative MBC patients who underwent 1st and 2nd line endocrine treatment from July 2010 to October 2022 at the Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, comparing the clinical pathological characteristics, HER2 expression in primary/metastatic lesions, treatment, and therapeutic effects of the HER2-low and HER2-zero groups.

Results

Among the 458 HoR-positive/HER2-negative MBC patients, 54.37% (249/458) were HER2-low. The HER2-low group and the HER2-zero group had similar clinical pathological characteristics and similar progression-free survival (PFS) of 1st and 2nd line endocrine treatment (median PFS: 8.05 months vs 10.12 months, p=0.114, HR 1.257, 95% CI 0.771 to 1.028). The PFS of the HER2-low and HER2-zero groups was also similar, treated with different endocrine drugs (including aromatase inhibitors, tamoxifen/toremifene, fulvestrant, palbociclib, and everolimus). However, the HER2-low group had significantly shorter PFS during 1st and 2nd line chemotherapy compared to the HER2-zero group (median PFS: 8.64 vs 9.03 months, p=0.027, HR 0.841, 95% CI 0.721-0.980). Additionally, 41.18% (63/153) of patients exhibited a change in HER2 expression between primary and metastatic lesions. Notably, patients whose HER2 status changed from zero to low expression had significantly prolonged PFS during chemotherapy compared to those who maintained low HER2 expression (median PFS: 14.29 vs 11.27 months, p=0.048, HR 0.597, 95% CI 0.358-0.996).

Conclusion

In HoR-positive MBC, patients with low and zero HER2 expression have similar clinical characteristics and respond similarly to endocrine treatment, but the chemotherapy effect is worse in the HER2-low patients. Moreover, the transformation of HER2 status from primary to metastatic lesions may have potential influence on chemotherapy outcomes. Therefore, the expression and heterogeneity of HER2 should be considered in clinical decisions.
Identifying patient-related predictors of permanent growth hormone deficiency
Authors: Mericq Veronica , Iñiguez German , Pinto Graziella , Gonzalez-Briceño Laura G. , Samara-Boustani Dinane , Thalassinos Caroline , Flechtner Isabelle , Stoupa Athanasia , Beltrand Jacques , Besançon Alix , Brabant Séverine , Ghazal Khaldoun , Leban Monique , Touraine Philippe , Cavada Gabriel , Polak Michel , Kariyawasam Dulanjalee
Published: October 2023

Objective

Isolated childhood growth hormone deficiency (GHD) can persist into adulthood, and re-testing at the transition period is needed to determine whether continued growth hormone therapy is indicated. Here, our objective was to identify predictors of permanent GHD.

Design

Retrospective single-centre study of patients with childhood-onset GHD who were re-tested after adult height attainment.

Methods

Auxological, clinical, laboratory, and MRI data throughout follow-up were collected.

Results

We included 101 patients. At GH treatment initiation, age was 8.1 ± 0.4 years, height -2.25 ± 0.8, and BMI -0.27 ± 0.1 SDS. The 29 (28.7%) patients with persistent GHD had lower height SDS (-2.57 ± 0.1 vs. -2.11 ± 0.1, p<0.001) and mean GH peaks (8.4 ± 1.0 vs.13.2 ± 0.5 mIU/L, p<0.001) at GHD diagnosis; at adult height, they had lower IGF1 (232 ± 19.9 vs. 331 ± 9.1 ng/mL, p<0.001) and higher BMI SDS (-0.15 ± 0.27 vs. -0.73 ± 0.13, p<0.005). By multivariate analysis, the best predictive model included height and BMI SDS, both GH peaks, and MRI findings at diagnosis. Patients with height at diagnosis <-3 SDS had a 7.7 (95% IC 1.4-43.1, p=0.02) fold higher risk of persistent GHD after adjustment on BMI SDS. An abnormal pituitary region by MRI was the strongest single predictor (7.2 times, 95% CI 2.7-19.8) and after multivariate analysis adjustment for GH peaks and height SDS at diagnosis, the risk increased to 10.6 (1.8 - 61.3) times.

Conclusions

Height <-3 SDS at GHD diagnosis and pituitary MRI abnormalities should lead to a high index of suspicion for persistent GHD.
Functional and ecological diversification of underground organs in Solanum
Authors: Gagnon Edeline , Baldaszti Ludwig , Moonlight Peter , Knapp Sandra , Lehmann Caroline E. R. , Särkinen Tiina
Published: October 2023

The evolution of geophytes in response to different environmental stressors is poorly understood largely due to the great morphological variation in underground plant organs, which includes species with rhizomatous structures or underground storage organs (USOs). Here we compare the evolution and ecological niche patterns of different geophytic organs in Solanum L., classified based on a functional definition and using a clade-based approach with an expert-verified specimen occurrence dataset. Results from PERMANOVA and Phylogenetic ANOVAs indicate that geophytic species occupy drier areas, with rhizomatous species found in the hottest areas whereas species with USOs are restricted to cooler areas in the montane tropics. In addition, rhizomatous species appear to be adapted to fire-driven disturbance, in contrast to species with USOs that appear to be adapted to prolonged climatic disturbance such as unfavorable growing conditions due to drought and cold. We also show that the evolution of rhizome-like structures leads to changes in the relationship between range size and niche breadth. Ancestral state reconstruction shows that in Solanum rhizomatous species are evolutionarily more labile compared to species with USOs. Our results suggest that underground organs enable plants to shift their niches towards distinct extreme environmental conditions and have different evolutionary constraints.
Functional role of microRNA in the regulation of biotic and abiotic stress in agronomic plants
Authors: Samynathan Ramkumar , Venkidasamy Baskar , Shanmugam Ashokraj , Ramalingam Sathishkumar , Thiruvengadam Muthu
Published: October 2023

The increasing demand for food is the result of an increasing population. It is crucial to enhance crop yield for sustainable production. Recently, microRNAs (miRNAs) have gained importance because of their involvement in crop productivity by regulating gene transcription in numerous biological processes, such as growth, development and abiotic and biotic stresses. miRNAs are small, non-coding RNA involved in numerous other biological functions in a plant that range from genomic integrity, metabolism, growth, and development to environmental stress response, which collectively influence the agronomic traits of the crop species. Additionally, miRNA families associated with various agronomic properties are conserved across diverse plant species. The miRNA adaptive responses enhance the plants to survive environmental stresses, such as drought, salinity, cold, and heat conditions, as well as biotic stresses, such as pathogens and insect pests. Thus, understanding the detailed mechanism of the potential response of miRNAs during stress response is necessary to promote the agronomic traits of crops. In this review, we updated the details of the functional aspects of miRNAs as potential regulators of various stress-related responses in agronomic plants.
Identification of subclusters and prognostic genes based on glycolysis/gluconeogenesis in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Chen Dan , Aierken Ayinuer , Li Hui , Chen Ruihua , Ren Lei , Wang Kai
Published: October 2023

Background

This study aimed to examine glycolysis/gluconeogenesis-related genes in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and evaluate their potential roles in HCC progression and immunotherapy response.

Methods

Data analyzed in this study were collected from GSE14520, GSE76427, GSE174570, The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), PXD006512, and GSE149614 datasets, metabolic pathways were collected from MSigDB database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between HCC and controls. Differentially expressed glycolysis/gluconeogenesis-related genes (candidate genes) were obtained and consensus clustering was performed based on the expression of candidate genes. Bioinformatics analysis was used to evaluate candidate genes and screen prognostic genes. Finally, the key results were tested in HCC patients.

Results

Thirteen differentially expressed glycolysis/gluconeogenesis-related genes were validated in additional datasets. Consensus clustering analysis identified two distinct patient clusters (C1 and C2) with different prognoses and immune microenvironments. Immune score and tumor purity were significantly higher in C1 than in C2, and CD4+ memory activated T cell, Tfh, Tregs, and macrophage M0 were higher infiltrated in HCC and C1 group. The study also identified five intersecting DEGs from candidate genes in TCGA, GSE14520, and GSE141198 as prognostic genes, which had a protective role in HCC patient prognosis. Compared with the control group, the prognostic genes all showed decreased expression in HCC patients in RT-qPCR and Western blot analyses. Flow cytometry verified the abnormal infiltration level of immune cells in HCC patients.

Conclusion

Results showed that glycolysis/gluconeogenesis-related genes were associated with patient prognosis, immune microenvironment, and response to immunotherapy in HCC. It suggests that the model based on five prognostic genes may valuable for predicting the prognosis and immunotherapy response of HCC patients.
Impact of climate change on berthing areas in ports of the Balearic Islands: adaptation measures
Authors: Sierra Joan Pau , Sánchez-Arcilla Agustín , Gironella Xavier , Gracia Vicente , Altomare Corrado , Mösso César , González-Marco Daniel , Gómez Jesús , Barceló Mateo , Barahona Cristina
Published: October 2023

Climate change generates impacts on coastal areas due to sea-level rise and potential modifications in wave and storm surge patterns. Since harbours are located in littoral areas, they will experience different impacts associated to such processes. In this paper, the effects of climate change on port berthing areas in terms of operability are quantified. The study is focused on the ports of the Balearic Islands (Western Mediterranean Sea) and analyses the loss of operability due to the reduction of freeboard in berthing structures and the potential variation in agitation within these harbours during the 21st century, considering two different climate scenarios (RCP4.5 and RCP8.5) and two-time horizons (2045 and 2100). In addition, adaptation measures to address such impacts are proposed and their cost estimated. The results indicate that climate change will not generate significant changes in wave agitation due to negligible variations in wave patterns under future scenarios. On the contrary, sea-level rise will cause huge increases of inoperability for berthing structures due to insufficient freeboard: 10.5% under RCP4.5 or 20.5% under RCP8.5 in 2045, increasing to 57.1% (RCP4.5) and even 83.2% (RCP8.5) in 2100.
Is the long-term mortality similar in COVID-19 and community-acquired pneumonia?
Authors: Méndez Raúl , González-Jiménez Paula , Latorre Ana , Mengot Noé , Zalacain Rafael , Ruiz Luis A. , Serrano Leyre , España Pedro P. , Uranga Ane , Cillóniz Catia , Hervás David , Torres Antoni , Menéndez Rosario ,   NEUMONAC,   RECOVID
Published: October 2023

Introduction

There are no data on the association of type of pneumonia and long-term mortality by the type of pneumonia (COVID-19 or community-acquired pneumonia [CAP]) on long-term mortality after an adjustment for potential confounding variables. We aimed to assess the type of pneumonia and risk factors for long-term mortality in patients who were hospitalized in conventional ward and later discharged.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of two prospective and multicentre cohorts of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 and CAP. The main outcome under study was 1-year mortality in hospitalized patients in conventional ward and later discharged. We adjusted a Bayesian logistic regression model to assess associations between the type of pneumonia and 1-year mortality controlling for confounders.

Results

The study included a total of 1,693 and 2,374 discharged patients in the COVID-19 and CAP cohorts, respectively. Of these, 1,525 (90.1%) and 2,249 (95%) patients underwent analysis. Until 1-year follow-up, 69 (4.5%) and 148 (6.6%) patients from the COVID-19 and CAP cohorts, respectively, died (p = 0.008). However, the Bayesian model showed a low probability of effect (PE) of finding relevant differences in long-term mortality between CAP and COVID-19 (odds ratio 1.127, 95% credibility interval 0.862–1.591; PE = 0.774).

Conclusion

COVID-19 and CAP have similar long-term mortality after adjusting for potential confounders.
The varied roles of pilA-N, omcE, omcS, omcT, and omcZ in extracellular electron transfer by Geobacter sulfurreducens
Authors: Jiang Jie , He Pengchen , Luo Ying , Peng Zhaofeng , Jiang Yongguang , Hu Yidan , Qi Lei , Dong Xiuzhu , Dong Yiran , Shi Liang
Published: October 2023

Geobacter sulfurreducens mediates extracellular electron transfer (EET) reactions with different substrates, such as solid-phase Fe(III)-containing minerals, anodes and the cells of Geobacter metallireducens. To compare their roles in EET, the pilA-N, omcE, omcS, omcT and omcZ genes of G. sulfurreducens were systematically deleted. All mutants showed impaired and varied ability to form biofilms on nonconductive surface. Deletion of omcE also impaired bacterial ability to reduce ferrihydrite, but its impacts on the ability for anode reduction and the co-culture of G. metallireducens-G. sulfurreducens were minimal. The mutant without omcS showed diminished ability to reduce ferrihydrite and to form the co-culture, but was able to regain its ability to reduce anodes. Deletion of omcT, omcZ or pilA-N alone impaired bacterial ability to reduce ferrihydrite and anodes and to form the co-culture. Deletion of all tested genes abolished bacterial ability to reduce ferrihydrite and anodes. Triple-deletion of all omcS, omcT and omcZ abolished the ability of G. sulfurreducens to co-culture with G. metallireducens. However, deletion of only omcZ or pilA-N or both omcS and omcT abolished the ability of G. sulfurreducens without hydrogenase gene hybL to co-culture with G. metallireducens, which show their indispensable roles in direct electron transfer from G. metallireducens to G. sulfurreducens. Thus, the roles of pilA-N, omcE, omcS, omcT and omcZ for G. sulfurreducens in EET vary substantially, which also suggest that possession of PilA-N and multiple cytochromes of different structures enables G. sulfurreducens to mediate EET reactions efficiently with substrates of different properties.
The role of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria in strengthening plant resistance to fluoride toxicity: a review
Authors: Singh Anamika , Yadav Virendra Kumar , Gautam Hemant , Rathod Lokendra , Chundawat Rajendra Singh , Singh Gulab , Verma Rakesh Kumar , Sahoo Dipak Kumar , Patel Ashish
Published: October 2023

A wide variety of bacteria are present in soil but in rhizospheric area, the majority of microbes helps plant in defending diseases and facilitate nutrient uptake. These microorganisms are supported by plants and they are known as plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR). The PGPRs have the potential to replace chemical fertilizers in a way that is more advantageous for the environment. Fluoride (F) is one of the highly escalating, naturally present contaminants that can be hazardous for PGPRs because of its antibacterial capacity. The interactions of F with different bacterial species in groundwater systems are still not well understood. However, the interaction of PGPR with plants in the rhizosphere region reduces the detrimental effects of pollutants and increases plants’ ability to endure abiotic stress. Many studies reveal that PGPRs have developed F defense mechanisms, which include efflux pumps, Intracellular sequestration, enzyme modifications, enhanced DNA repair mechanism, detoxification enzymes, ion transporter/antiporters, F riboswitches, and genetic mutations. These resistance characteristics are frequently discovered by isolating PGPRs from high F-contaminated areas or by exposing cells to fluoride in laboratory conditions. Numerous studies have identified F-resistant microorganisms that possess additional F transporters and duplicates of the well-known targets of F. Plants are prone to F accumulation despite the soil’s low F content, which may negatively affect their growth and development. PGPRs can be used as efficient F bioremediators for the soil environment. Environmental biotechnology focuses on creating genetically modified rhizobacteria that can degrade F contaminants over time. The present review focuses on a thorough systemic analysis of contemporary biotechnological techniques, such as gene editing and manipulation methods, for improving plant-microbe interactions for F remediation and suggests the importance of PGPRs in improving soil health and reducing the detrimental effects of F toxicity. The most recent developments in the realm of microbial assistance in the treatment of F-contaminated environments are also highlighted.
Casual effects of gut microbiota on risk of infections: a two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Lyu Beibei , Ma Jinghang , Bai Yongyu , Feng Zhen
Published: October 2023

Background

The correlation between gut microbiota and infections has garnered significant attention in previous studies; nevertheless, our understanding of the causal relationships and mechanisms between specific microbial species and infections remains limited.

Methods

This study aimed to employ Mendelian randomization (MR) using single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and genome-wide association study (GWAS) data of European ancestry to explore the genetic-level relationships between distinct types of gut microbiota and susceptibility to infections. Our analysis encompassed three prevalent infections: intestinal infections, pneumonia, and urinary tract infections, while concurrently examining various types of gut microbiota.

Results

We identified 18 protective gut microbiotas alongside 13 associated with increased infection risk. Particularly noteworthy are certain microbial communities capable of producing butyrate, such as the Ruminococcaceae and Lachnospiraceae families, which exhibited both favorable and unfavorable effects. Additionally, we observed a few certain communities linked to infection susceptibility, including ErysipelotrichaceaeUCG003 (OR = 0.13, 95% CI: 0.054–0.33, p = 1.24E-05), Collinsella (OR = 3.25, 95% CI: 2.00–5.27, p = 1.87E-06), and NB1n (OR = 1.24, 95% CI: 1.09–1.40, p = 1.12E-03).

Conclusion

This study reveals complex relationships between gut microbiota and various infections. Our findings could potentially offer new avenues for exploring prevention and treatment strategies for infectious diseases.
Unveiling the potential pleiotropic effects of metformin in treating COVID-19: a comprehensive review
Authors: Petakh Pavlo , Kamyshna Iryna , Kamyshnyi Aleksandr
Published: October 2023

This review article explores the potential of metformin, a medication commonly used for type 2 diabetes, as an antiviral and anti-inflammatory agent in the context of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Metformin has demonstrated inhibitory effects on the growth of SARS-CoV-2 in cell culture models and has shown promising results in reducing viral load and achieving undetectable viral levels in clinical trials. Additionally, metformin exhibits anti-inflammatory properties by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and modulating immune cell function, which may help prevent cytokine storms associated with severe COVID-19. The drug’s ability to regulate the balance between pro-inflammatory Th17 cells and anti-inflammatory Treg cells suggests its potential in mitigating inflammation and restoring T cell functionality. Furthermore, metformin’s modulation of the gut microbiota, particularly changes in bacterial taxa and the production of short-chain fatty acids, may contribute to its therapeutic effects. The interplay between metformin, bile acids, the gut microbiome, glucagon-like peptide-1 secretion, and glycemic control has implications for the management of diabetes and potential interventions in COVID-19. By refreshing the current evidence, this review highlights the potential of metformin as a therapeutic option in the management of COVID-19, while also exploring its effects on the gut microbiome and immunometabolism.