bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Membrane Residual Stress of Q690 High-Strength Steel Welded H-Section
Authors: Wang Jie , Di Jin , Zhang Qian , Qin Fengjiang , Men Pengfei
Published: July 2024

The residual compressive stress ratio of high-strength steel (HSS) members with welded sections is significantly lower than that of common mild steel (CMS) members. However, current codes apply the residual stress results of CMS members to HSS members without adjustment. This study investigated the membrane residual stress distribution of a Q690 HSS welded H-section. The membrane residual stresses of five specimens of different sizes were measured using the sectioning method, resulting in simplified membrane residual stress distribution models. The influences of the width-thickness ratio of the flange and web and the thickness of the flange and web were analyzed. The results indicated that while the welding membrane residual stress satisfied the self-equilibrium of the section, the self-equilibrium of the plates followed an inconsistent pattern. A three-dimensional thermal elastic–plastic finite element model (3DTEFEM) was established to simulate the specimen welding process, and the measured results were used to verify the 3DTEFEM. This model was then used to conduct parameter analysis on the plate width-thickness ratio of the H-section, leading to the development of a unified membrane residual stress pattern for the Q690 steel welded H-section member.
A construction of Rota−Baxter operators on cocommutative Hopf algebras
Authors: Zhu Haixing , Zhang Jing , Qiao Yuyang
Published: July 2024

Let [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] be two cocommutative Hopf algebras over a field [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] is a left [Formula: see text]-module Hopf algebra. Denote by [Formula: see text] the smash product Hopf algebra of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] Let [Formula: see text] be an [Formula: see text]-linear map from [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text] a Rota−Baxter operator on [Formula: see text]. We prove that the linear map [Formula: see text] from [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text] defined as [Formula: see text] for all [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], is a Rota−Baxter operator on [Formula: see text] if and only if [Formula: see text] is a Rota−Baxter operator on [Formula: see text] satisfying two suitable equations.
Tor-tilting and weak silting theories in comodule categories
Authors: Yuan Qianqian , Yao Hailou
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we introduce and investigate Tor-tilting comodules and weak silting comodules, providing a generalization of the established tilting and silting theories in the comodule category. Our exploration yields a comprehensive understanding of their fundamental properties, including their associated torsion theories. We delve into not only the relations between Tor-tilting and weak silting comodules but also the connections among them and (co) tilting as well as (co) silting comodules. Additionally, we define Tor-tilting coflat comodules and Tor-tilting coflat dimensions. Finally, we explore Tor-tilting and weak silting objects in the morphism category, demonstrating their equivalence.
Spatiotemporal Evolution and Prediction of the Water Ecological Footprint in Chinese Super-megacities
Authors: He Yawei , Zhang Huaxin , Liu Xinran , Liu Haiying
Published: July 2024

The harmonized development of water resources and cities is of great importance for the high-quality development of regions and water security. Study of water ecological footprint (WEF) has important theoretical and practical significance for the sustainable utilization of water resources. This study utilizes an improved WEF model and panel data from Chinese super-megacities to analyze the spatiotemporal evolution characteristics and variation trends of the WEF through the application of kernel density estimation, variable coefficient model and gray neural network model. The research findings are as follows. (1) The WEF per capita of 21 super-megacities shows significant variations from 2003 to 2020, along with large inter-annual fluctuations. This disparity seems to be widening spatially. The regions with the highest WEF per capita are concentrated in 12 cities, where the annual average value exceeded 0.006 [Formula: see text]. Besides, these super-megacities are predominantly located in the northeast. The water ecological carrying capacity (WEC) of super-megacities reflects the supply capability of water resources and is declining during the study period, with an average multiyear decline rate of 1.2%, highlighting the urgent need to enhance water production capacity. (2) Seventeen super-megacities are experiencing water resource ecological deficits and severe ecological imbalances, with the deficit primarily concentrated in the northeastern region. According to sustainability evaluation indicators, water resources in 13 super-megacities are undergoing unsustainable development, particularly with Beijing, Tianjin and Zhengzhou reaching Level I and being in a moderately unsustainable state. Research has shown that the sustainable utilization of water resources is more advanced in southern regions compared to northern regions. (3) Economic development, industrial structure, technology level and environmental regulations have a significant differentiated effect on WEF per capita across various city levels. (4) The prediction results of the gray neural network demonstrate a decrease in the WEF per capita of seven representative super-megacities from 2023 to 2027, showing significant variations across different regions.
The Impact of a Coastal Water Quality Policy in South Korea: Evidence from the Total Pollution Load Management Program
Authors: Kim Tae-Hyun
Published: July 2024

Deterioration of coastal water quality is a significant concern in economically active cities in South Korea. In response, the South Korean government initiated the total pollutant load management (TPLM) program to control pollutant levels. However, the current evaluation method, based on pre-post comparison, may lead to a biased estimate. Thus, this study aims to establish a cause-and-effect relationship between the TPLM program and coastal water quality improvement using a dataset of over 15,000 observations from 2011 to 2021. A difference-in-difference model was employed to assess the program’s impact, considering its staggered implementation and changes in evaluation frequency. Although the effects on overall treated regions remain inconclusive, the study found evidence of water quality improvement associated with changes in evaluation frequency. For instance, chemical oxygen demand levels decreased by 4.8% to 9.8% points, and total phosphorus levels decreased by 11.5% to 14.8% points, maintaining consistency across robustness checks. These findings suggest that frequent municipal evaluations are effective in managing emission reductions. Therefore, it is recommended that the South Korean government, which currently conducts quarterly water quality tests, increase the evaluation frequency for improved monitoring and better control of non-point sources.
Examining Employee Perspectives to Embrace Voice Assistant Devices in the Workplace
Authors: Bharathi S. Vijayakumar , Sheth Arushi , Perdana Arif
Published: July 2024

As technology evolves into streamlined tasks, Voice Assistant Devices (VADs) have become increasingly valuable for office settings. This study explores the factors influencing employees’ intentions to use VADs at work using a sample of 324 respondents from India. Integrating theories from technology adoption, innovation diffusion, and trust, this study highlights that performance expectancy, compatibility and observability significantly improve attitudes toward VAD usage in professional settings. The quality of VAD outputs notably boosts user trust, emphasizing the need for high-performance devices. Employees’ receptiveness to innovation also heightens their expectations for VADs’ effectiveness. Moreover, the compatibility and visibility of VAD benefits critically shape user attitudes, directly affecting users’ willingness to adopt this technology. Our study can help organizations plan strategies for applying VADs to support workplace tasks.
Toward Healthcare 4.0: Industry 4.0 Innovating Hospital Management
Authors: de Oliveira Karine Borges , de Oliveira Otávio José
Published: July 2024

Healthcare 4.0 (H4.0) is revolutionizing the way hospitals are managed, bringing innovations to the health service. Therefore, this work proposes the use of drivers aimed at hospital management improvement through H4.0 grounded in a Content Analysis. It resulted in 36 booster elements for hospital management grouped into five drivers: Process management, Data management, Resource management, Patient management, and Assistance and Development of Healthcare Professionals. These drivers contribute to strengthen the link between the main needs of hospital settings and technologies capable of meeting them in an applied manner. The most significant scientific contribution of this work lies in deepening and extending the recent block of knowledge on integrating hospital management with H4.0 technologies. Future studies should investigate the application of H4.0 technologies to assist in managing environmental, social and economic sustainability aspects of hospital settings.
Fluid Property Characterization for Underground Gas Storage
Authors: Machado Marcos Vitor Barbosa , Alhotan Muhammad M. , Jerauld Gary Russell , Delshad Mojdeh , Sepehrnoori Kamy
Published: July 2024

Numerical simulation is a widely employed technique for investigating the storage of carbon dioxide (CO2) or hydrogen (H2) in porous media. Consequently, it is crucial to have an accurate characterization of the properties of CO2, H2, and other gases such as methane (CH4), which necessitates the use of experimental data to support the numerical modeling studies. These data are utilized for calibrating empirical model parameters. In this study, laboratory data for pure components (H2, CH4, and CO2) and their mixtures were collected from various sources. The data encompassed density and viscosity measurements across a wide range of pressures, compositions, and temperatures. Measurements of H2 and CO2 solubility in pure water and brine with different salinities were also included. The Peng–Robinson Equation of State (PR EoS) was used to calculate the density while different models were calibrated to match viscosity and solubility. The results demonstrate significant disparities between the properties calculated using default model parameters and those after parameter tuning, particularly for viscosity and solubility values, as well as the density at high pressures. The models with tuned parameters had accuracy comparable to the uncertainties of the measurements. For density, the simulations had an accuracy within 1% of the measured values, while for viscosity, the accuracy was within 5% of the measured values. In terms of solubility, the models could also provide reliable predictions (errors lower than 5% for different brine salinities). These calibration steps were crucial in generating representative fluid models for the numerical simulation of gas storage in geological formations.
Metabolic theory of preeclampsia: implications for maternal cardiovascular health
Authors: Manoharan Mistina M. , Montes Guilherme C. , Acquarone Mariana , Swan Kenneth F. , Pridjian Gabriella C. , Nogueira Alencar Allan Kardec , Bayer Carolyn L.
Published: July 2024

Preeclampsia (PE) is a multisystemic disorder of pregnancy that not only causes perinatal mortality and morbidity but also has a long-term toll on the maternal and fetal cardiovascular system. Women diagnosed with PE are at greater risk for the subsequent development of hypertension, ischemic heart disease, cardiomyopathy, cerebral edema, seizures, and end-stage renal disease. Although PE is considered heterogeneous, inefficient extravillous trophoblast (EVT) migration leading to deficient spiral artery remodeling and increased uteroplacental vascular resistance is the likely initiation of the disease. The principal pathophysiology is placental hypoxia, causing subsequent oxidative stress, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction, mitophagy, and immunological imbalance. The damage imposed on the placenta in turn results in the “stress response” categorized by the dysfunctional release of vasoactive components including oxidative stressors, proinflammatory factors, and cytokines into the maternal circulation. These bioactive factors have deleterious effects on systemic endothelial cells and coagulation leading to generalized vascular dysfunction and hypercoagulability. A better understanding of these metabolic factors may lead to novel therapeutic approaches to prevent and treat this multisystemic disorder. In this review, we connect the hypoxic-oxidative stress and inflammation involved in the pathophysiology of PE to the resulting persistent cardiovascular complications in patients with preeclampsia.
Microscopic Properties of Capacitor Insulating Oil under External Electric Field Based on Density Functional Theory
Authors: Shi Meijuan , Pang Zhiyi , Li Yi , Qin Rui
Published: July 2024

Due to its high flash point, low viscosity, high solubility, low poor point, strong coloration ability, and high voltage resistance, 1‐phenyl‐1‐xylylethane (PXE) is widely utilized as an electrical insulation oil. In this study, density functional theory is employed to apply an electric field within the molecule for calculating the molecular structure and spatial charge characteristics of PXE under external electric fields. The alterations in molecular structure, reaction activity, and insulation properties of PXE when subjected to external electric fields are analyzed correspondingly. As the external electric field gradually increases, the potential energy of the molecule elevates leading to a decrease in stability of the molecular chain. Under conditions of high electric field intensity, the molecule experiences enhanced polarity and polarization, leading to alterations in the chemical bonds within the benzene ring and ultimately resulting in structural degradation. The space charge characteristics further demonstrate a gradual decrease in the energy gap of PXE molecule, accompanied by an enhancement in molecular conductivity under the influence of an external electric field. Meanwhile, the HOMO and LUMO orbitals exhibit a gradual localization towards the two termini of the molecular chain, and the active sites of PXE molecular chain underwent alterations, resulting in both ends of the chain exhibiting electrophilic and nucleophilic reactivity. The variation in trap energy levels at different depths results in the distortion of local field strength within the PXE. The absorption peak in the high frequency region of the molecular infrared spectrum exhibits a noticeable redshift, while the absorption peak in the low frequency region experiences a blue shift. The research findings can establish a theoretical framework for the micromorphology analysis of electric aging insulation oil in power capacitors, thereby offering a reference point for determining the breakdown voltage value in macroscopic electrical breakdown experiments. Additionally, these results provide valuable insights into material optimization and modification strategies.
Assessment of Debris Extrusion in Curved Canals: An In Vitro Analysis of Various Single‐File Endodontic Instrumentation Systems
Authors: Ahmad Muhammad Zubair
Published: July 2024

Objectives. Rotary single‐file endodontic systems are commonly used for root canal treatment. However, very few studies have evaluated the apical extrusion of debris generated by these systems during canal preparation at normal body temperature in laboratory conditions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the amount of apically extruded debris caused by seven different single‐file endodontic instrumentation systems at body temperature in mandibular molar teeth with curved root canals. Methods. One hundred forty mandibular first permanent molars were randomly divided into seven groups (n = 20) to be prepared by one of the following systems at 35°C: Reciproc Blue (REC Blue), WaveOne Gold (WOG), One Reci (OR), Neoniti, HyFlex EDM (HEDM), One Curve (OC), or XP Shaper (XPS). Debris was collected into preweighted Eppendorf tubes. The weight of the extruded debris was recorded by subtracting the weight of the tooth‐free apparatus from the post‐procedure weight. Data were analyzed by one‐way ANOVA and Tukey’s tests (p  < 5%). Results. REC Blue, WOG, and OR groups extruded significantly more debris from the apex than XPS, OC, and Neoniti groups (p  < 0.05). No significant difference was observed among the XPS, OC, Neoniti, and HEDM groups (p  > 0.05). Conclusion. All the instruments were associated with debris extrusion. However, REC Blue, WOG, and OR extrude significantly more debris than other instruments. The amount of debris with different files was REC Blue > OR > WOG > HEDM > OC > Neoniti > XPS. XPS, Neoniti, and OC caused significantly less extrusion of debris than REC Blue, WOG, and OR.
Community Social Capital and Self‐Reported Oral Health among Chinese Older Adults: The Moderating Role of Income and the Mediating Role of Depressive Symptoms
Authors: Lu Nan , Wu Bei , Mao Shan
Published: July 2024

This study examined the associations between community social capital and self‐reported oral health among older adults in urban China, as well as the moderating effect of household income and the mediating role of depressive symptoms in these associations. Data were obtained from a community survey conducted in 2020 in Tianjin and Shijiazhuang City, China; the final analytical sample comprised 776 adults aged 60 years and above. To test the proposed moderation and mediation models, the data were analysed using binary logistic regression models and a path analysis, respectively. The findings showed that cognitive social capital and social participation (i.e., an indicator of structural social capital) were significantly associated with self‐reported oral health. Additionally, the results revealed that while income significantly moderated the association between cognitive social capital and self‐reported oral health, depressive symptoms significantly mediated it. The findings not only highlight the crucial role of community social capital in promoting oral health in later life among low‐income older adults but also provide important evidence for a psychosocial pathway between social capital and oral health. Given the impacts of income and depressive symptoms on the relationship between community social capital and oral health among older adults, future social policies and interventions to support oral health should target financially vulnerable older adults with poor psychological well‐being.
Supplementary Figure S7 from The Novel ATR Inhibitor Tuvusertib (M1774) Induces Replication Protein Overexpression and Broad Synergy with DNA-targeted Anticancer Drugs
Authors: Jo Ukhyun , Arakawa Yasuhiro , Zimmermann Astrid , Taniyama Daiki , Mizunuma Makito , Jenkins Lisa M. , Maity Tapan K. , Kumar Suresh , Zenke Frank T. , Takebe Naoko , Pommier Yves
Published: July 2024

This figure shows synergistic combination effects, representative images, and profiling of cell viability in colorectal cancer organoids.
Figure S13 from A Compound That Inhibits Glycolysis in Prostate Cancer Controls Growth of Advanced Prostate Cancer
Authors: Uo Takuma , Ojo Kayode K. , Sprenger Cynthia C.T. , Epilepsia Kathryn S. , Perera B. Gayani K. , Damodarasamy Mamatha , Sun Shihua , Kim Soojin , Hogan Hannah H. , Hulverson Matthew A. , Choi Ryan , Whitman Grant R. , Barrett Lynn K. , Michaels Samantha A. , Xu Linda H. , Sun Vicky L. , Arnold Samuel L.M. , Pang Haley J. , Nguyen Matthew M. , Vigil Anna-Lena B.G. , Kamat Varun , Sullivan Lucas B. , Sweet Ian R. , Vidadala Ram , Maly Dustin J. , Van Voorhis Wesley C. , Plymate Stephen R.
Published: July 2024

Figure S13 shows effects of BKIDCs on intracellular ATP levels in HK1 and HK2 KO LNCaP cell lines.
Figure S10 from A Compound That Inhibits Glycolysis in Prostate Cancer Controls Growth of Advanced Prostate Cancer
Authors: Uo Takuma , Ojo Kayode K. , Sprenger Cynthia C.T. , Epilepsia Kathryn S. , Perera B. Gayani K. , Damodarasamy Mamatha , Sun Shihua , Kim Soojin , Hogan Hannah H. , Hulverson Matthew A. , Choi Ryan , Whitman Grant R. , Barrett Lynn K. , Michaels Samantha A. , Xu Linda H. , Sun Vicky L. , Arnold Samuel L.M. , Pang Haley J. , Nguyen Matthew M. , Vigil Anna-Lena B.G. , Kamat Varun , Sullivan Lucas B. , Sweet Ian R. , Vidadala Ram , Maly Dustin J. , Van Voorhis Wesley C. , Plymate Stephen R.
Published: July 2024

Figure S10 shows measurement of the oxygen consumption rate (OCR) and extracellular acidification rate (ECAR) using the Seahorse assay.
Table S2 from Zinc-alpha-2-glycoprotein Secreted by Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Promotes Peritumoral Fibrosis
Authors: Verma Surbhi , Giagnocavo Stephanie D. , Curtin Meghan C. , Arumugam Menusha , Osburn-Staker Sandra M. , Wang Guoying , Atkinson Aaron , Nix David A. , Lum David H. , Cox James E. , Hilgendorf Keren I.
Published: July 2024

Supplemental Table 2: Secretome proteomics
Supplementary Methods from Zinc-alpha-2-glycoprotein Secreted by Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Promotes Peritumoral Fibrosis
Authors: Verma Surbhi , Giagnocavo Stephanie D. , Curtin Meghan C. , Arumugam Menusha , Osburn-Staker Sandra M. , Wang Guoying , Atkinson Aaron , Nix David A. , Lum David H. , Cox James E. , Hilgendorf Keren I.
Published: July 2024

Additional Materials and Methods
Figure S6 from Zinc-alpha-2-glycoprotein Secreted by Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Promotes Peritumoral Fibrosis
Authors: Verma Surbhi , Giagnocavo Stephanie D. , Curtin Meghan C. , Arumugam Menusha , Osburn-Staker Sandra M. , Wang Guoying , Atkinson Aaron , Nix David A. , Lum David H. , Cox James E. , Hilgendorf Keren I.
Published: July 2024

Supplemental Figure and Figure Legend 6
Figure S3 from Zinc-alpha-2-glycoprotein Secreted by Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Promotes Peritumoral Fibrosis
Authors: Verma Surbhi , Giagnocavo Stephanie D. , Curtin Meghan C. , Arumugam Menusha , Osburn-Staker Sandra M. , Wang Guoying , Atkinson Aaron , Nix David A. , Lum David H. , Cox James E. , Hilgendorf Keren I.
Published: July 2024

Supplemental Figure and Figure Legend 3
Figure S2 from Zinc-alpha-2-glycoprotein Secreted by Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Promotes Peritumoral Fibrosis
Authors: Verma Surbhi , Giagnocavo Stephanie D. , Curtin Meghan C. , Arumugam Menusha , Osburn-Staker Sandra M. , Wang Guoying , Atkinson Aaron , Nix David A. , Lum David H. , Cox James E. , Hilgendorf Keren I.
Published: July 2024

Supplemental Figure and Figure Legend 2
Figure S1 from Zinc-alpha-2-glycoprotein Secreted by Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Promotes Peritumoral Fibrosis
Authors: Verma Surbhi , Giagnocavo Stephanie D. , Curtin Meghan C. , Arumugam Menusha , Osburn-Staker Sandra M. , Wang Guoying , Atkinson Aaron , Nix David A. , Lum David H. , Cox James E. , Hilgendorf Keren I.
Published: July 2024

Supplemental Figure and Figure Legend 1
Figure 5 from Zinc-alpha-2-glycoprotein Secreted by Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Promotes Peritumoral Fibrosis
Authors: Verma Surbhi , Giagnocavo Stephanie D. , Curtin Meghan C. , Arumugam Menusha , Osburn-Staker Sandra M. , Wang Guoying , Atkinson Aaron , Nix David A. , Lum David H. , Cox James E. , Hilgendorf Keren I.
Published: July 2024

TNBC-secreted ZAG promotes fibrosis in the surrounding adipose tissue. A–D, The adipose tissue microenvironment of MDA-MB-468 xenografts depleted for ZAG is less fibrotic. A, Quantification and (B) representative image of Picro Sirius Red staining. C, Quantification and (D) representative image of αSMA staining. Sirius Red and αSMA staining was quantified in the region of interest defined as within 2 mm surrounding the tumor. E, The secretome of MDA-MB-468 cells promotes the expression of fibrotic genes Inhba, Tnc, Acta (αSma), and Ctgf in differentiating primary murine ASPCs (day 3 of adipogenic differentiation). TGFβ treatment of ASPCs for 3 days shows similar induced expression of fibrotic genes. A and C, Data are mean ± SEM. Data points are quantification of the staining of sections from 10 independent mice. P values calculated using Student t test. E, Data are mean ± SD. Data points show independent biological replicates from separate ASPC isolations. P values calculated using one-way ANOVA followed by Dunnett’s multiple comparison test. (ns, non-significant; *, P < 0.05; **, P < 0.01.)
Figure 3 from Zinc-alpha-2-glycoprotein Secreted by Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Promotes Peritumoral Fibrosis
Authors: Verma Surbhi , Giagnocavo Stephanie D. , Curtin Meghan C. , Arumugam Menusha , Osburn-Staker Sandra M. , Wang Guoying , Atkinson Aaron , Nix David A. , Lum David H. , Cox James E. , Hilgendorf Keren I.
Published: July 2024

ZAG is secreted by TNBC cells and linked to poor prognosis. A, MDA-MB-468-secreted ZAG is highly modified (lanes 4, 5). These high molecular weight species were not observed in the secretome of ZAG depleted cells (lane 6), DMEM-only media control (lane 2), or in whole cell MDA-MB-468 lysates (lanes 8, 9). Histone 3 used as lysate loading control and also found in secretome, likely due to sparse cell death. B, TNBC outcome of combined Metabric and TCGA data sets stratified by ZAG expression. C, Table of multivariable Cox proportional hazards model shows ZAG expression is independent risk factor for poor survival in TNBC after adjusted for menopause status and therapy.
Data from Zinc-alpha-2-glycoprotein Secreted by Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Promotes Peritumoral Fibrosis
Authors: Verma Surbhi , Giagnocavo Stephanie D. , Curtin Meghan C. , Arumugam Menusha , Osburn-Staker Sandra M. , Wang Guoying , Atkinson Aaron , Nix David A. , Lum David H. , Cox James E. , Hilgendorf Keren I.
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Obesity is a modifiable predisposition factor for postmenopausal breast cancer. This suggests a localized, reciprocal interaction between breast cancer cells and the surrounding mammary white adipose tissue. To investigate how breast cancer cells alter the composition and function of adipose tissue, we screened the secretomes of 10 human breast cancer cell lines for the ability to modulate the differentiation of adipocyte stem and progenitor cells. The screen identified an adipogenic modulator, zinc-alpha-2-glycoprotein (ZAG/AZGP1) that is secreted by triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells. TNBC-secreted ZAG inhibits adipogenesis and instead induces the expression of fibrotic genes. Accordingly, depletion of ZAG in TNBC cells attenuates fibrosis in white adipose tissue and inhibits tumor growth. Further, high expression of ZAG is linked to poor prognosis in patients with TNBC but not in patients with other clinical subtypes of breast cancer. Our findings suggest a role of TNBC-secreted ZAG in promoting the transdifferentiation of adipocyte stem and progenitor cells into cancer-associated fibroblasts to support tumorigenesis.
Significance:
Functional screening of breast cancer secretomes revealed that triple-negative breast cancer promotes fibrosis in the adipose tissue microenvironment by secreting zinc-alpha-2-glycoprotein and promoting the transdifferentiation of adipocyte stem cells into myofibroblasts.
Intrauterine Device in The Bladder: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Haeruddin Muhammad Edy , Novianda Andhika Hernawan
Published: July 2024

Introduction. Uterine perforation and migration of intrauterine device (IUD) are rare complications but serious. There are several risk factors, such as consistency and thickness of the uterine wall, length of time of insertion, pelvic surgery history, and installer experience and knowledge. The IUD can migrate to the peritoneal cavity and then cause perforation of the rectum, appendix, or stones in the bladder. Although the migration of the IUD to the bladder can be asymptomatic, removing procedure should be taken as soon as possible.Case. A 74-year-old woman came to the hospital with a complaint of painful urination two years prior to admission. The patient was diagnosed with a recurrent urinary tract infection (rUTI) over the past two years. For the last two months, the patient complained of lower abdominal pain and occasional hematuria. The patient has a 50-year history of IUD insertion. On ultrasound imaging examination, stones were obtained in the bladder by 2.7cm, in cystoscopy procedures confirmed the diagnosis of IUD migration to the bladder with stone formation. Cystolasertripsy was performed to destroy stones and evacuate stones and IUDs from the bladder. The procedure went off without a hitch. After a postoperative evaluation revealed no complications.Conclusions. Migration of IUD can be found in the bladder and evaluation of the condition of the patient by radiological examination is necessary. An endoscopic approach could be performed to evacuate the IUD from the bladder.
Selective Btk inhibition by PRN1008/PRN473 blocks human CLEC-2, and PRN473 reduces venous thrombosis formation in mice
Authors: Smith Christopher W. , Campos Joana , Brown Helena C. , Jooss Natalie J. , Ivanova Vanesa-Sindi , Harbi Maan , Garcia-Quintanilla Lourdes , Jossi Sian , Perez-Toledo Marisol , Rookes Kieran , Brill Alexander , Theodore Lindsay N. , Owens Tim , LaStant Jacob , Foulke Matthew C. , Mukai Shin , Francesco Michelle , Storek Michael , Hicks Alexandra , Langrish Claire , Nunn Philip A. , Cunningham Adam F. , Chauhan Abhi , Thomas Mark R. , Watson Steve P. , Nicolson Phillip L. R.
Published: July 2024

Platelet C-type lectin-like receptor 2 (CLEC-2) is a hem-immunoreceptor tyrosine–based activation motif-containing receptor that has a critical role in venous thrombosis but minimal involvement in hemostasis. CLEC-2 can be blocked by Btk inhibitors. Treatment with ibrutinib is associated with increased bleeding due to off-target inhibition of Src family kinases (SFKs). Patients with X-linked agammaglobulinemia (XLA) who lack Btk, however, do not bleed, suggesting selective Btk inhibition as a viable antithrombotic strategy. We assessed the effects of selective Btk inhibitors PRN1008 (rilzabrutinib) and PRN473 on platelet signaling and function mediated by CLEC-2 and glycoprotein-VI. We used healthy donors and XLA platelets to determine off-target inhibitor effects. Inferior vena cava (IVC) stenosis and Salmonella infection mouse models were used to assess antithrombotic effects of PRN473 in vivo. PRN1008 and PRN473 potently inhibited CLEC-2–mediated platelet activation to rhodocytin. No off-target inhibition of SFKs was seen. PRN1008 treatment of Btk-deficient platelets resulted in minor additional inhibition of aggregation and tyrosine phosphorylation, likely reflecting inhibition of Tec. No effect on G protein-coupled receptor-mediated platelet function was observed. PRN473 significantly reduced the number of thrombi in podoplanin-positive vessels after Salmonella infection and the presence of IVC thrombosis after vein stenosis. The potent inhibition of human platelet CLEC-2 and reduced thrombosis in in vivo models, together with the lack of off-target SFK inhibition and absence of bleeding reported in rilzabrutinib-treated patients with immune thrombocytopenia, suggest Btk inhibition as a promising antithrombotic strategy.
Caplacizumab in pediatric immune thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura: the UK TTP Registry experience
Authors: Taylor Alice , Keogh Louisa , Dickens Emmy , Dutt Tina , Grainger John , Gregory Rennick , Mapplebeck Claire , Richards Michael , Stokley Simone , Salta Styliani , Taylor Thomas , Scully Marie
Published: July 2024

Pediatric thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is an ultrarare disease. Immune TTP (iTTP) is driven by anti-ADAMTS13 autoantibodies causing an imbalanced von Willebrand factor (VWF):ADAMTS13 axis, and rarer still in children, but potentially life-threatening. Caplacizumab is licensed for iTTP treatment in adults and adolescents aged ≥12 years who weigh ≥40 kg. There is a need to clarify whether caplacizumab can be used in younger children. We retrospectively described caplacizumab use in 16 patients under 18 years of age from the UK TTP Registry, including 4 children aged <12 years. For patients weighing <40 kg (n = 3), caplacizumab was dosed at 5 mg once dailyThe youngest patient was 33 months old at diagnosis. Plasma exchange (PEX) was used in 15 patients, with a median of 5 exchanges required before platelet count normalization (range, 2-9). One patient was managed without PEX. All patients achieved normalization of platelet count (median, 5.5 days; range, 3-28) and ADAMTS13 activity (median, 35 days; range, 8-149), with a median hospital admission of 11 days (range, 5-26). There were no refractory patients. One patient relapsed 9 months after presentation. Bleeding requiring VWF supplementation and reduction of caplacizumab use occurred in 1 patient with severe epistaxis, with no significant intracranial or gastrointestinal bleeding. We demonstrated the efficacy and safety of caplacizumab in the pediatric population, which is synonymous with the adult trial data: primarily, reduction of PEX compared with the precaplacizumab era. This has implications for the intensification and duration of admission, particularly relevant in pediatric care.
Unraveling the genomic secrets of Tritonibacter mobilis AK171: a plant growth-promoting bacterium isolated from Avicennia marina
Authors: Alghamdi Amal Khalaf , Parween Sabiha , Hirt Heribert , Saad Maged M.
Published: July 2024

The scarcity of freshwater resources resulting in a significant yield loss presents a pressing challenge in agriculture. To address this issue, utilizing abundantly available saline water could offer a smart solution. In this study, we demonstrate that the genome sequence rhizosphere bacterium Tritonibacter mobilis AK171, a halophilic marine bacterium recognized for its ability to thrive in saline and waterlogged environments, isolated from mangroves, has the remarkable ability to enable plant growth using saline irrigation. AK171 is characterized as rod-shaped cells, displays agile movement in free-living conditions, and adopts a rosette arrangement in static media. Moreover, The qualitative evaluation of PGP traits showed that AK171 could produce siderophores and IAA but could not solubilize phosphate nor produce hydrolytic enzymes it exhibits a remarkable tolerance to high temperatures and salinity. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive genome sequence analysis of T. mobilis AK171 to unravel the genetic mechanisms underlying its plant growth-promoting abilities in such challenging conditions. Our analysis revealed diverse genes and pathways involved in the bacterium’s adaptation to salinity and waterlogging stress. Notably, T. mobilis AK171 exhibited a high level of tolerance to salinity and waterlogging through the activation of stress-responsive genes and the production of specific enzymes and metabolites. Additionally, we identified genes associated with biofilm formation, indicating its potential role in establishing symbiotic relationships with host plants. Furthermore, our analysis unveiled the presence of genes responsible for synthesizing antimicrobial compounds, including tropodithietic acid (TDA), which can effectively control phytopathogens. This genomic insight into T. mobilis AK171 provides valuable information for understanding the molecular basis of plant-microbial interactions in saline and waterlogged environments. It offers potential applications for sustainable agriculture in challenging conditions.
Rose Bengal diacetate-mediated antimicrobial photodynamic inactivation: potentiation by potassium iodide and acceleration of wound healing in MRSA-infected diabetic mice
Authors: Wei Danfeng , Hamblin Michael R , Wang Hao , Fekrazad Reza , Wang Chengshi , Wen Xiang
Published: July 2024

Previous studies have shown that antimicrobial photodynamic inactivation (aPDI) can be strongly potentiated by the addition of the non-toxic inorganic salt, potassium iodide (KI). This approach was shown to apply to many different photosensitizers, including the xanthene dye Rose Bengal (RB) excited by green light (540 nm). Rose Bengal diacetate (RBDA) is a lipophilic RB derivative that is easily taken up by cells and hydrolyzed to produce an active photosensitizer. Because KI is not taken up by microbial cells, it was of interest to see if aPDI mediated by RBDA could also be potentiated by KI. The addition of 100 mM KI strongly potentiated the killing of Gram-positive methicillin-resistant Staphylocccus aureus, Gram-negative Eschericia coli, and fungal yeast Candida albicans when treated with RBDA (up to 15 µM) for 2 hours followed by green light (540 nm, 10 J/cm2). Both RBDA aPDI regimens (400 µM RBDA with or without 400 mM KI followed by 20 J/cm2 green light) accelerated the healing of MRSA-infected excisional wounds in diabetic mice, without damaging the host tissue.
The impact of intraoperative hypotension on postoperative acute kidney injury, mortality and length of stay following off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting surgery: a single-center retrospective cohort study
Authors: Xiao Cheng , Yang Ming , Cao Lei , Chen Fang , Jing Sheng , Tan Yuting , Li Hong
Published: July 2024

Background

Off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCABG) presents distinct hemodynamic characteristics, yet the relationship between intraoperative hypotension and short-term adverse outcomes remains clear. Our study aims to investigate association between intraoperative hypotension and postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI), mortality and length of stay in OPCABG patients.

Methods

Retrospective data of 494 patients underwent OPCABG from January 2016 to July 2023 were collected. We analyzed the relationship between intraoperative various hypotension absolute values (MAP > 75, 65 < MAP ≤ 75, 55 < MAP ≤ 65, MAP ≤ 55 mmHg) and postoperative AKI, mortality and length of stay. Logistic regression assessed the impacts of exposure variable on AKI and postoperative mortality. Linear regression was used to analyze risk factors on the length of intensive care unit stay (ICU) and hospital stay.

Results

The incidence of AKI was 31.8%, with in-hospital and 30-day mortality at 2.8% and 3.5%, respectively. Maintaining a MAP greater than or equal 65 mmHg [odds ratio (OR) 0.408;p = 0.008] and 75 mmHg (OR 0.479;p = 0.024) was significantly associated with a decrease risk of AKI compared to MAP less than 55 mmHg for at least 10 min. Prolonged hospital stays were linked to low MAP, while in-hospital mortality and 30-day mortality were not linked to IOH but exhibited correlation with a history of myocardial infarction. AKI showed correlation with length of ICU stay.

Conclusions

MAP > 65 mmHg emerges as a significant independent protective factor for AKI in OPCABG and IOH is related to length of hospital stay. Proactive intervention targeting intraoperative hypotension may provide a potential opportunity to reduce postoperative renal injury and hospital stay.

Trial registration

ChiCTR2400082518. Registered 31 March 2024.https://www.chictr.org.cn/bin/project/edit?pid=225349.
Participants’ perspectives of being recruited into a randomised trial of a weight loss intervention before colorectal cancer surgery: a qualitative interview study
Authors: Talbot Amelia , Jebb Susan A , Foster Claire , Realpe Alba X , Wheatstone Pete , Buczacki Simon , Koutoukidis Dimitrios A
Published: July 2024

Background

The period between cancer diagnosis and surgery presents an opportunity for trials to assess the feasibility of behaviour change interventions. However, this can be a worrying time for patients and may hinder recruitment. We describe the perspectives of patients with excess weight awaiting colorectal cancer surgery about their recruitment into a randomised trial of a prehabilitation weight loss intervention.

Methods

We interviewed the first 26 participants from the 8 recruitment sites across England in the ‘CARE’ feasibility trial. Participants were randomised into either usual care (n = 13) or a low-energy nutritionally-replete total diet replacement programme with weekly remote behavioural support by a dietitian (n = 13). The semi-structured interviews occurred shortly after recruitment and the questions focused on participants’ recollections of being recruited into the trial. We analysed data rapidly and then used a mind-mapping technique to develop descriptive themes. Themes were agreed by all co-authors, including a person with lived-experience of colorectal surgery.

Results

Participants had a mean body mass index (± SD) of 38 kg/m2 (± 6), age of 50 years (± 12), and 42% were female. People who participated in the trial were motivated by the offer of structured weight loss support that could potentially help them improve their surgical outcomes. However, participants also had concerns around the potential unpalatability of the intervention diet and side effects. Positive attitudes of clinicians towards the trial facilitated recruitment but participants were disappointed when they were randomised to usual care due to clinical teams’ overemphasis on the benefits of losing weight.

Conclusions

Patients were motivated to take part by the prospect of improved surgical outcomes. However, the strong preference to be allocated to the intervention suggests that balanced communication of equipoise is crucial to minimise disappointment from randomisation to usual care and differential dropout from the trial.

Clinical trial registration

ISRCTN39207707, Registration date 13/03/2023.
Clinical outcome predictors for metastatic renal cell carcinoma: a retrospective multicenter real-life case series
Authors: Rizzo Mimma , Pezzicoli Gaetano , Tibollo Valentina , Premoli Andrea , Quaglini Silvana
Published: July 2024

Over the last decades, the therapeutic armamentarium of metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) has been revolutionized by the advent of tyrosin-kinase inhibitors (TKI), immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICI), and immune-combinations. RCC is heterogeneous, and even the most used validated prognostic systems, fail to describe its evolution in real-life scenarios. Our aim is to identify potential easily-accessible clinical factors and design a disease course prediction system. Medical records of 453 patients with mRCC receiving sequential systemic therapy in two high-volume oncological centres were reviewed. The Kaplan-Meier method and Cox proportional hazard model were used to estimate and compare survival between groups. As first-line treatment 366 patients received TKI monotherapy and 64 patients received ICI, alone or in combination. The mean number of therapy lines was 2.5. A high Systemic Inflammation Index, a BMI under 25 Kg/m2, the presence of bone metastases before systemic therapy start, age over 65 years at the first diagnosis, non-clear-cell histology and sarcomatoid component were correlated with a worse OS. No significant OS difference was observed between patients receiving combination therapies and those receiving exclusively monotherapies in the treatment sequence. Our relapse prediction system based on pathological stage and histological grade was effective in predicting the time between nephrectomy and systemic treatment. Our multicentric retrospective analysis reveals additional potential prognostic factors for mRCC, not included in current validated prognostic systems, suggests a model for disease course prediction and describes the outcomes of the most common therapeutic strategies currently available.
The impact of financial stress on student wellbeing in Lebanese higher education
Authors: Nasr Ramona , Rahman Abir Abdel , Haddad Chadia , Nasr Nada , Karam Joanne , Hayek Jessy , Ismael Ibrahim , Swaidan Eman , Salameh Pascale , Alami Nael
Published: July 2024

Background

The financial crisis has indirectly affected Lebanese university students, leading to economic distress. Accordingly, this study aimed to assess the substantial negative impact of financial stress on the mental health and well-being of Lebanese college students.

Methods

A quantitative research approach was applied and took place from June 13th to July 25th, 2023, targeting 1272 university students aged 17 and above from private and public universities across Lebanon through convenience sampling. The InCharge Financial Distress/Financial Well-Being scale (IFDFW), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Beirut Distress Scale (BDS-10), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), and Well-Being Index (WHO-5) were used to assess the students’ well-being. Descriptive analyses of the data was performed using SPSS software version 25.

Results

1272 university students participated in this study, mostly females, with a mean age of 21.64 (± 4.43) years. Participants reported a lack of financial independence, unemployment, and no income. Positive associations were obtained between the BDS total scale as well as the PSS total and PSQI scores, while there was a significant negative relationship between IFDFW and PSQI scores. Those with a higher GPA, majoring in science/health and medicine, living in rural areas, and graduate students were linked to lower PSQI and BDS-10 scores. Financial aid and financial independence were associated with lower PSQI and BDS-10 scores. PSS-10 scores were higher among students majoring in science/health and medicine. Higher scores on the IFDFW scale correlated with lower BDS-10 and PSS-10 scores. In contrast, females had higher BDS-10 and PSS-10 scores. Scoring higher on the PSS-10 and PSQI scales, living off campus, or majoring in science/health and medicine, were associated with higher on the WHO-5 scale.

Conclusions

A significant impact of financial stress on college students in Lebanon was obtained, affecting their well-being and mental health aspects. Marital status, gender, academic major, region of living, and financial independence also influences students’ experiences. Tailored support and further research are needed to address these multifaceted challenges.
Spinal fusion surgery use among adults with low back pain enrolled in a digital musculoskeletal program: an observational study
Authors: Yadav Sandhya , Gold Laura S. , Zaidi Qasim Hassan , Hwang Raymond , Lu Louie , Wang Grace
Published: July 2024

Objectives

To compare 12-month spinal fusion surgery rates in the setting of low back pain among digital musculoskeletal (MSK) program participants versus a comparison cohort who only received usual care.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study with propensity score matched comparison cohort using commercial medical claims data representing over 100 million commercially insured lives.

Methods

All study subjects experienced low back pain between January 2020 and December 2021. Digital MSK participants enrolled in the digital MSK low back program between January 2020 and December 2021. Non-participants had low back pain related physical therapy (PT) between January 2020 and December 2021. Digital MSK participants were matched to non-participants with similar demographics, comorbidities and baseline MSK-related medical care use. Spinal fusion surgery rates at 12 months post participation were compared.

Results

Compared to non-participants, digital MSK participants had lower rates of spinal fusion surgery in the post-period (0.7% versus 1.6%; p < 0.001). Additionally, in the augmented inverse probability weighting (AIPW) model, digital MSK participants were found to have decreased odds of undergoing spinal fusion surgery (adjusted odds ratio: 0.64, 95% CI: 0.51–0.81).

Conclusions

This study provides evidence that participation in a digital MSK program is associated with a lower rate of spinal fusion surgery.