bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extracellular vesicles: a potential new player in antibody-mediated rejection in lung allograft recipients
Authors: Bansal Sandhya , Arjuna Ashwini , Franz Brian , Guerrero-Alba Alexa , Canez Jesse , Fleming Timothy , Rahman Mohammad , Hachem Ramsey , Mohanakumar T.
Published: September 2023

Identification of recipients with pre-existing antibodies and cross-matching of recipient sera with donor lymphocytes have reduced the incidence of antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) after human lung transplantation. However, AMR is still common and requires not only immediate intervention but also has long-term consequences including an increased risk of chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD). The mechanisms resulting in AMR remain largely unknown due to the variation in clinical and histopathological features among lung transplant recipients; however, several reports have demonstrated a strong association between the development of antibodies against mismatched donor human leucocyte antigens [donor-specific antibodies (DSAs)] and AMR. In addition, the development of antibodies against lung self-antigens (K alpha1 tubulin and collagen V) also plays a vital role in AMR pathogenesis, either alone or in combination with DSAs. In the current article, we will review the existing literature regarding the association of DSAs with AMR, along with clinical diagnostic features and current treatment options for AMR. We will also discuss the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in the immune-related pathogenesis of AMR, which can lead to CLAD.
Exploring potato seed research: a bibliometric approach towards sustainable food security
Authors: Lal Priyanka , Tiwari Rahul Kumar , Behera Biswaranjan , Yadav Malu Ram , Sharma Eshita , Altaf Muhammad Ahsan , Jena Rupak , Ahmad Ajaz , Dey Abhijit , Kumar Awadhesh , Singh Brajesh , Lal Milan Kumar , Kumar Ravinder
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Potato is considered to be complete food that will not only ensure food security but also alleviate poverty. Seed production of potato requires specific temperatures and conditions. In response to the growing emphasis on sustainable production, there has been an increasing focus on research on tuber seed production.

Methods

In our study, we have employed bibliometric analysis to investigate the trends in potato seed research and assess its correlation with sustainable development. Tabular analysis and network analysis are employed in the study to understand the prominent authors and institutions and research trends across time. For this purpose, Biblioshiny and Vosviewer software were used. The steps of bibliometric analysis were used, which included data retrieval from Dimensions software. Owing to its limitations, a major analysis was conducted without affecting the results.

Result and discussion

It was found from the analysis that it was SDG 2 that was mostly linked with the theme of potato seed production. The results depicted an increasing trend of publications and citations. Co-authorship analysis of authors showed high linkage among groups of authors that formed clusters while other authors remained disconnected. Among countries United States, China and the United Kingdom had a higher impact on publications and citations. Our analysis showed that there is still scope for collaboration among countries as there is no evidence of multidisciplinary interlinkages. By understanding the current research landscape, identifying influential works and authors, and uncovering collaboration patterns, we can pave the way for future advancements in potato seed production. Ultimately, this research contributes to achieving sustainable agriculture and ensuring food security for future generations.
Impact of Hepatitis E Virus Screening in the UK Deceased Organ Donor Population
Authors: Ushiro-Lumb Ines , Forsythe John , Haywood Becky , Geoghegan Christie , Maddox Victoria , Ijaz Samreen , Manas Derek , Thorburn Douglas
Published: September 2023

Universal Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) screening of deceased organ donors was implemented by the UK national organ procurement organisation in October 2017. Donor testing for HEV infection is done post-transplant; detection of HEV ribonucleic acid (RNA) in donor plasma is therefore not a contra-indication for organ donation, with the result being used to inform recipient management. Immediate post-transplant detection of donor HEV viraemia triggers notification to transplant centres. Follow up of liver and kidney recipients has shown that transmission through solid organs is very efficient, particularly through liver grafts, as expected; no other organ types were transplanted in this cohort. Although donors with higher plasma viral load (VL > 103 IU/mL) were invariably associated with recipient infection, transmission was also documented at lower VL levels. Knowledge of donor HEV status has led to identification of transmission of infection via solid organ grafts followed by close patient monitoring and informed clinical management decisions. The purpose of this strategy is to allow early detection of infection and recurrence and treatment to circumvent the risk of accelerated liver damage from chronic HEV infection due to undiagnosed, inadvertent donor-derived transmission of infection.
Five-Year Outcome After Continuous Flow LVAD With Full-Magnetic (HeartMate 3) Versus Hybrid Levitation System (HeartWare): A Propensity-Score Matched Study From an All-Comers Multicentre Registry
Authors: Francica Alessandra , Loforte Antonio , Attisani Matteo , Maiani Massimo , Iacovoni Attilio , Nisi Teodora , Comisso Marina , Terzi Amedeo , De Bonis Michele , Vendramin Igor , Boffini Massimo , Musumeci Francesco , Luciani Giovanni Battista , Rinaldi Mauro , Pacini Davide , Onorati Francesco
Published: September 2023

Despite the withdrawal of the HeartWare Ventricular Assist Device (HVAD), hundreds of patients are still supported with this continuous-flow pump, and the long-term management of these patients is still under debate. This study aims to analyse 5 years survival and freedom from major adverse events in patients supported by HVAD and HeartMate3 (HM3). From 2010 to 2022, the MIRAMACS Italian Registry enrolled all-comer patients receiving a LVAD support at seven Cardiac Surgery Centres. Out of 447 LVAD implantation, 214 (47.9%) received HM3 and 233 (52.1%) received HVAD. Cox-regression analysis adjusted for major confounders showed an increased risk for mortality (HR 1.5 [1.2–1.9]; p = 0.031), for both ischemic stroke (HR 2.08 [1.06–4.08]; p = 0.033) and haemorrhagic stroke (HR 2.6 [1.3–4.9]; p = 0.005), and for pump thrombosis (HR 25.7 [3.5–188.9]; p < 0.001) in HVAD patients. The propensity-score matching analysis (130 pairs of HVAD vs. HM3) confirmed a significantly lower 5 years survival (41.7% vs. 64.1%; p 0.02), freedom from haemorrhagic stroke (90.5% vs. 70.1%; p < 0.001) and from pump thrombosis (98.5% vs. 74.7%; p < 0.001) in HVAD cohort. Although similar perioperative outcome, patients implanted with HVAD developed a higher risk for mortality, haemorrhagic stroke and thrombosis during 5 years of follow-up compared to HM3 patients.
Kogo i jak teraz uczymy? Demografia
a glottodydaktyka polonistyczna w zbiorowości polonocentrycznej USA
Authors: Dubisz Stanisław , Jędryka Beata K.
Published: September 2023

The outline of the history of creation of Polish (Polonocentric) communities in the USA evidences the process of the demographic and social transformation of the diaspora from Polish populations of settlers to Polish communities abroad to Polonocentric circles, which has a substantive influence on education of Polish communities abroad in the areas of command of Polish and knowledge of Poland. The results of the research conducted in the period 2015–2022 in the educational system for Polish communities on the East Coast of the USA permit the conclusions on the necessity to modify the teaching methods, techniques, and materials used in teaching Polish to children and youth of Polish descent.
Keywords: glottodidactics – Polish as a foreign language – inherited Polish language – Polish community in the USA
W poczuciu obywatelskiego obowiązku. Rzecz o gramatyce
Antoniego Morzyckiego
Authors: Decyk-Zięba Wanda
Published: September 2023

A study titled Rys grammatyki języka polskiego (Outline of the Polish grammar) was published in 1857. Antoni Morzycki, the author of the grammar book, was not a philologist by education, he wrote his study out of a sense of civic duty. He founded his concept on the dogma of the speech originating from the Word, as John the Evangelist wrote: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” The man received the Word as a gft from God. The author divides grammar into three sections: phonetics and phonology, the science of the word and clause, and spelling. He adopted parallelism of parts of speech and clause as one of the rules organising the grammatical description. The book evoked an intense reaction of his contemporaries.
Keywords: grammar books – Polish language – 19th century – terminology
Integracja obywateli Ukrainy jako nowy etap procesu narodotwórczego
Authors: Wierzbicki Andrzej
Published: September 2023

Referring to the concept of the nation by Ernst Renan and the nation-building process of Antonina Kłoskowska, as well as based on Samuel Huntington’s statements the author attempts to verify the hypothesis that the Polish national community retaining its demographic and ethnocultural core, undergoes Ukrainization in the sphere of collective consciousness. For this purpose, using the causal explanation and integral explanation of political actions and phenomena developed by Tadeusz Klementewicz, analyzes the impact of migration on nation-building processes, the status of Ukrainian citizens in Poland, the problems of assimilation and integration, and what speaks for the Ukrainization of the Polish nation.
Zmiana wizerunku uchodźcy i migranta wśród społeczeństwa polskiego na wybranych przykładach
Authors: Zaręba Agnieszka
Published: September 2023

The purpose of the article is to indicate the variability of the image of a refugee and a migrant in Poland. The change of image is directly related to the intensity of media coverage and specific conditions resulting from the international and current situation in a given country. In the case of Poland, we have several examples in which the image in the context changed from a refugee to a migrant, from a positive perception to a negative perception of specific national groups, but reverse processes were observed, from the image of a labour migrant to a refugee. The article has been divided into three parts. The first concerns the change in the image of Chechens, the second is related to the crisis on the Polish-Belarusian border in 2021, while the third concerns the change in the image of Ukrainians after the outbreak of war in 2022. The article was based on the analysis of existing data, surveys of the Public Opinion Research Center after 1989.
Swoi czy obcy? „Studia nad antagonizmem do obcych” Floriana Znanieckiego jako rama analizy stosunku do migrantów wojennych z Ukrainy na podstawie danych sondażowych i obserwacji ukraińskich znaków w krajobrazie Wrocławia
Authors: Niedźwiecka-Iwańczak Natalia
Published: September 2023

The aim of this article is to analyse the attitudes of Poles towards war migrants from Ukraine in the period after the invasion of troops of the Russian Federation in February 2022. The empirical base for the considerations is formed by opinion polls and visual data collected by the author – references to Ukrainians and Ukraine in the space of Wrocław registered on photographs. The theoretical framework for the considerations is the concept of Znaniecki. This concept was used as a theoretical framework to try to answer the question at which pole of the “insider-stanger” axis war migrants are placed by Poles.
Budowanie systemu pomocy dla uchodźców wojennych z Ukrainy w Polsce z perspektywy doświadczeń uczestników tego procesu
Authors: Firlit-Fesnak Grażyna
Published: September 2023

Due to the scale, dynamics and structure of the influx of war refugees from Ukraine to Poland in the first weeks of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the Polish state and society faced tasks beyond the world’s previous experience in granting protection to foreigners. Nevertheless, an inclusive model of migrant’s protection was quickly developed, combining formal and informal means of assistance from multiple state and non-state institutions and citizens into an effective way of dealing with the migrant’s crisis. The following article contains an analysis of the formation process of the Ukraine war migrant’s protection model in Poand and its characteristic features, as well as the political, social and cultural context of its implementation in the public and non-public aid system. The results showcase the particular value of citizen involvement in the process for the efficiency of the public assistance system. Additionally, potential opportunities to use the Polish experience in other countries offering protection to migrants are estimated, alongside a summary of strong and weak points of the Polish migrants reception system.
Machine-Learning-Based Imputation Method for Filling Missing Values in Ground Meteorological Observation Data
Authors: Li Cong , Ren Xupeng , Zhao Guohui
Published: September 2023

Ground meteorological observation data (GMOD) are the core of research on earth-related disciplines and an important reference for societal production and life. Unfortunately, due to operational issues or equipment failures, missing values may occur in GMOD. Hence, the imputation of missing data is a prevalent issue during the pre-processing of GMOD. Although a large number of machine-learning methods have been applied to the field of meteorological missing value imputation and have achieved good results, they are usually aimed at specific meteorological elements, and few studies discuss imputation when multiple elements are randomly missing in the dataset. This paper designed a machine-learning-based multidimensional meteorological data imputation framework (MMDIF), which can use the predictions of machine-learning methods to impute the GMOD with random missing values in multiple attributes, and tested the effectiveness of 20 machine-learning methods on imputing missing values within 124 meteorological stations across six different climatic regions based on the MMDIF. The results show that MMDIF-RF was the most effective missing value imputation method; it is better than other methods for imputing 11 types of hourly meteorological elements. Although this paper applied MMDIF to the imputation of missing values in meteorological data, the method can also provide guidance for dataset reconstruction in other industries.
Anatomist and Co-Founder of Polish Veterinary Education—Ludwik Henryk Bojanus (1776–1827)
Authors: Sobolewski Jarosław , Zdun Maciej
Published: September 2023

Ludwig Henry Bojanus was born on 16 July 1776 in Buchsweiler, Alsace. After studying in Jena and Vienna, L. H. Bojanus enrolled at the University of Jena for his doctoral studies. Bojanus’s scientific activities are closely associated with Vilnius, where he was a professor of veterinary medicine from 1806 (he was elected to this position in 1804). In 1815, he became a professor of comparative anatomy. These were the times of the greatest flourishing of Vilnius University, where the foundations of modern Polish science were being laid. At Vilnius University, he established a technical and anatomical-pathological office for the zoo, a veterinary clinic and a model forge for shoeing horses in 1823. Bojanus founded a veterinary school in Vilnius and drew up a plan for a veterinary institute, which was not opened until 1832, simultaneously with the opening of the medico-surgical academy. He became known as one of Europe’s most prominent anatomists and zoologists. A lasting memorial to the scientist is the monograph “Anatomy of the Tortoise”, which many scholars still point to today as a model of accurate and precise anatomical research. He was the first to identify the anatomical differences between the European bison (Bos bonasus) and the aurochs (Bos primigenius). In his lectures on comparative anatomy, Bojanus presented the principle of uninterrupted development. He can be described as one of the most decisive and consistent evolutionists before Darwin. He died in 1827.
Ionospheric Variations Induced by Thunderstorms in the Central Region of Argentina during the RELAMPAGO–CACTI Campaign
Authors: Villagrán Asiares Constanza Inés , Nicora María Gabriela , Meza Amalia , Natali María Paula , Ávila Eldo Edgardo , Rubinstein Marcos , Rachidi Farhad
Published: September 2023

The ionosphere can be perturbed by solar and geomagnetic activity, earthquakes, thunderstorms, etc. In particular, electromagnetic pulses produced by thunderstorms can generate wave structures in the ionospheric plasma, which are known as atmospheric gravity waves (AGWs), which can be detected by measuring the total electron content (TEC). We studied ionospheric variations resulting from thunderstorms on 10 November 2018, between 00:00 and 08:00 UTC, in the central region of Argentina, site of the RELAMPAGO–CACTI Project (Remote sensing of Electrification, Lightning, and Mesoscale/Microscale Processes with Adaptive Ground Observations; Clouds, Aerosols, and Complex Terrain Interactions). Atmospheric electrical activity data were provided by the Earth Networks Total Lightning Network (ENTLN) and the TEC was computed from Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurements provided by the Argentinian Continuous Satellite Monitoring Network (RAMSAC by its Spanish acronym). We found AGWs with periods less than or equal to 100 min and peak-to-peak Differential Vertical Total Electron Content (DVTEC) amplitude values up to 1.35 TECU (1 total electron content unit =1016 electrons/m2). We observed that AGWs show the highest peak-to-peak amplitudes during intense thunderstorm periods. On a day without thunderstorms, the peak-to-peak amplitudes were approximately 2.91 times lower.
Evaluation of Extreme Hydroclimatic Trends in River Basins Located in the Northeast and South Regions of Brazil
Authors: Esposte Coutinho Priscila , Cataldi Marcio
Published: September 2023

Brazil has a large availability of natural resources, and its economy was historically built around their exploitation. Changes in climate trends are already causing several environmental impacts, which affect the economic and social organization of the country. Impacts linked to the hydrological cycle are particularly concerning since water resources are used for electricity production, representing approximately 65% of the Brazilian electricity matrix. This study, therefore, aims to evaluate the extreme hydroclimatic trends of river basins located in the Northeast and South regions of the country. For this purpose, we carried out a flow analysis from 2020 to 2100, considering the precipitation data from the BCC CSM1-1, CCSM4, MIROC5, and NorESM1-M models presented in the Fifth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). We used the SMAP rainfall-runoff model to obtain future flow projections for the RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 scenarios. As a result, we observed a trend toward water loss and the intensification of extreme events, with an increase in variability in both scenarios. We also noted that these climate models have difficulty reproducing the natural variability of southern basins, as parameterization of small-scale atmospheric processes prevents them from correctly projecting the precipitation.
Examining Work Stress and Air Pollutants Exposure of Home Healthcare Workers
Authors: Gerding Thomas , Wang Jun , Newman Nicholas
Published: September 2023

Occupational exposures in on-campus healthcare settings have increasingly been investigated, while the sector of home healthcare typically receives less focus. This study explored work stress exposure and air pollution’s effects on home healthcare workers through the collection of multiple salivary cortisol samples per day, the completion of stress diaries, and the use of low-cost personal air monitors. This study was designed to identify the physiological responses to various types of stress, as well as the impact of air pollution on the home healthcare workforce. Due to the sample size and duration, the data showed that neither the stress levels recorded in the diaries (p = 0.754), nor the air pollution data (with only VOC and PM1 having Pearson correlation coefficients of >0.25), exhibited a significant association with the cortisol levels. The air sensor data were inconsistent with previously published indoor air pollutant literature. Forty percent of events reported by participants were identified as high stressor (level 6–10) events. One participant in this study accounted for 18% of these high-stress events. The most common emotional responses to these stressor events included feelings of frustration, irritation, anger, and fury, which together comprised 22.4% of the reactions. Future work should include studies with a larger sample size, a more robust air quality monitor, and a longer study duration to improve the power to detect potential associations. Although previous studies have indicated that home healthcare workers experience workplace stress and exposure to multiple air pollutants, this study did not detect a consistent relationship between these exposures and the physiological stress response.
A Flexible and Self-Healing Ionic Gel Electrolyte Based on a Zwitterion (ZI) Copolymer for High-Performance Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Chen Wenting , Yi Yikun , Hai Feng , Wu Zhendi , Guo Jingyu , Tian Xiaolu , Gao Xin , Tang Wei , Li Mingtao
Published: September 2023

Ionic gel electrolyte retains the characteristics of non-volatilization, non-flammability and outstanding electrochemical stability of ionic liquid, and shows good electrochemical performance combined with the excellent characteristics of different matrix materials, which is considered to be the best choice to achieve high energy density and safety at the same time. In this paper, a flexible and self-healing ionic gel electrolyte was prepared using a solvent-assisted method based on a zteric ion (ZI) copolymer. Abundant hydrogen bonds and synergistic interaction of ions in the electrolyte system endowed it with remarkable self-healing ability. An ionic conductivity of 9.06 × 10−4 S cm−1 at room temperature was achieved. Moreover, the lithium-ion transference number was increased to 0.312. The ionic gel electrolyte has a self-healing function which guarantees long-term tolerance during charging and discharging. The capacity retention rate of the Li//LiFePO4 battery was 96% after 155 cycles at 0.1 C at 60 °C. This polymer electrolyte is expected to solve the problem of increasing polarization, which is caused by the low lithium ions migration number in ionic liquid electrolyte. And ultimately, it gave rise to a good rate performance.
Exoskeletons: Contribution to Occupational Health and Safety
Authors: Flor-Unda Omar , Casa Bregith , Fuentes Mauricio , Solorzano Santiago , Narvaez-Espinoza Fabián , Acosta-Vargas Patricia
Published: September 2023

This review aims to characterize the current landscape of exoskeletons designed to promote medical care and occupational safety in industrial settings. Extensive exploration of scientific databases spanning industries, health, and medicine informs the classification of exoskeletons according to their distinctive attributes and specific footholds on the human physique. Within the scope of this review, a comprehensive analysis is presented, contextualizing the integration of exoskeletons based on different work activities. The reviewers extracted the most relevant articles published between 2008 and 2023 from IEEE, Proquest, PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, and other databases. In this review, the PRISMA-ScR checklist was used, and a Cohen’s kappa coefficient of 0.642 was applied, implying moderate agreement among the reviewers; 75 primary studies were extracted from a total of 344. The future of exoskeletons in contributing to occupational health and safety will depend on continued collaboration between researchers, designers, healthcare professionals, and industries. With the continued development of technologies and an increasing understanding of how these devices interact with the human body, exoskeletons will likely remain valuable for improving working conditions and safety in various work environments.
Risk Factors of Suicidal Ideation in Iraqi Crystal Methamphetamine Users
Authors: Al-Imam Ahmed , Motyka Marek A. , Hoffmann Beata , Al-Ka’aby Hussein , Younus Manal , Al-Hemiary Nesif , Michalak Michal
Published: September 2023

Crystal methamphetamine, a potent psychostimulant, presents a complex clinical landscape. However, insights into the predisposing factors for suicidal tendencies among Iraqi users remain limited. Our study delves into these risks among 165 patients. Rigorous multivariable analysis was conducted, employing binary logistic regression, drawing from patients from Baghdad Medical City and Ibn-Rushd Teaching Hospital. Most participants were in their third decade (26.62 ± 0.53 years). Regarding suicidal ideation, our model demonstrated robust accuracy, supported by the Hosmer–Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test (NagelKerke’s R2 = 0.49, accuracy = 79.4%, p = 0.885). Notably, chronic methamphetamine use exceeding a year (OR = 6.15, p = 0.001), absence of psychological trauma (OR = 4.58, p = 0.006), and incidence of visual hallucinations (OR = 4.52, p = 0.001) rendered users more susceptible to suicidal ideation. Furthermore, our investigation unveiled risk factors tied to psychotic features and withdrawal manifestations. The study underscores pivotal predictors of suicidal ideation, warranting interdisciplinary vigilance from psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, and social workers. By monitoring at-risk individuals, progression toward the intricate spectrum of suicide can be potentially averted. These findings illuminate the urgency of tailored interventions for crystal methamphetamine users, contributing to enhanced holistic care.
The Correlation between Neck Pain and Disability, Forward Head Posture, and Hyperkyphosis with Opium Smoking: A Cross-Sectional Study from Iran
Authors: Massah Omid , Arab Amir Masoud , Farhoudian Ali , Noroozi Mehdi , Hashemirad Fahimeh
Published: September 2023

Opium smoking has been a common practice in Iran for many years, with people often smoking for long hours. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was an increase in opium smoking due to false beliefs about its protective effects against COVID-19 infection. In this study, we aimed to examine the association between the non-ergonomic positions associated with traditional opium smoking in Iran and the development of neck pain and disability, forward head posture (FHP), and hyperkyphosis (HK). In this cross-sectional, correlational study, a total of 120 individuals who smoked opium were selected based on the inclusion criteria. They were interviewed about their addiction profile using the Lite version of the Addiction Severity Index and the Leeds Dependence Questionnaire. The presence of neck pain and disability was also evaluated using the Visual Analog Scale and the Neck Disability Index. The participants were examined for FHP via side-view photography and for HK using a flexible ruler. Data were analyzed using correlation coefficient tests and stepwise linear regression analysis. Based on the results, homelessness, the lifetime duration of opium smoking (in months), the duration of daily opium smoking (in minutes), and the severity of drug dependence had significant relationships with the severity of neck pain, neck disability, FHP, and HK. Homelessness was the strongest predictor of neck pain and disability (R2 = 0.367, p < 0.001), FHP (R2 = 0.457, p < 0.001), and HK (R2 = 0.476, p < 0.001), followed by the lifetime duration of opium smoking and the duration of daily opium smoking, respectively, in which R2 increased to 0.505 (p = 0.011), 0.546 (p = 0.022), and 0.570 (p = 0.004) with the addition of two other variables. Overall, an increase in the duration of sitting in non-ergonomic positions could lead to neck pain and disability, FHP, and HK due to the non-neutral posture of opium smokers.
A Matched Molecular and Clinical Analysis of the Epithelioid Haemangioendothelioma Cohort in the Stafford Fox Rare Cancer Program and Contextual Literature Review
Authors: Abdelmogod Arwa , Papadopoulos Lia , Riordan Stephen , Wong Melvin , Weltman Martin , Lim Ratana , McEvoy Christopher , Fellowes Andrew , Fox Stephen , Bedő Justin , Penington Jocelyn , Pham Kym , Hofmann Oliver , Vissers Joseph H. A. , Grimmond Sean , Ratnayake Gayanie , Christie Michael , Mitchell Catherine , Murray William K. , McClymont Kelly , Luk Peter , Papenfuss Anthony T. , Kee Damien , Scott Clare L. , Goldstein David , Barker Holly E.
Published: September 2023

Background: Epithelioid haemangioendothelioma (EHE) is an ultra-rare malignant vascular tumour with a prevalence of 1 per 1,000,000. It is typically molecularly characterised by a WWTR1::CAMTA1 gene fusion in approximately 90% of cases, or a YAP1::TFE3 gene fusion in approximately 10% of cases. EHE cases are typically refractory to therapies, and no anticancer agents are reimbursed for EHE in Australia. Methods: We report a cohort of nine EHE cases with comprehensive histologic and molecular profiling from the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research Stafford Fox Rare Cancer Program (WEHI-SFRCP) collated via nation-wide referral to the Australian Rare Cancer (ARC) Portal. The diagnoses of EHE were confirmed by histopathological and immunohistochemical (IHC) examination. Molecular profiling was performed using the TruSight Oncology 500 assay, the TruSight RNA fusion panel, whole genome sequencing (WGS), or whole exome sequencing (WES). Results: Molecular analysis of RNA, DNA or both was possible in seven of nine cases. The WWTR1::CAMTA1 fusion was identified in five cases. The YAP1::TFE3 fusion was identified in one case, demonstrating unique morphology compared to cases with the more common WWTR1::CAMTA1 fusion. All tumours expressed typical endothelial markers CD31, ERG, and CD34 and were negative for pan-cytokeratin. Cases with a WWTR1::CAMTA1 fusion displayed high expression of CAMTA1 and the single case with a YAP1::TFE3 fusion displayed high expression of TFE3. Survival was highly variable and unrelated to molecular profile. Conclusions: This cohort of EHE cases provides molecular and histopathological characterisation and matching clinical information that emphasises the molecular patterns and variable clinical outcomes and adds to our knowledge of this ultra-rare cancer. Such information from multiple studies will advance our understanding, potentially improving treatment options.
Unlocking the Power of Benchmarking: Real-World-Time Data Analysis for Enhanced Sarcoma Patient Outcomes
Authors: Fuchs Bruno , Schelling Georg , Elyes Maria , Studer Gabriela , Bode-Lesniewska Beata , Scaglioni Mario F. , Giovanoli Pietro , Heesen Philip ,   on behalf of the SwissSarcomaNetwork
Published: September 2023

Benchmarking is crucial for healthcare providers to enhance quality and efficiency, notably for complex conditions like sarcomas. Multidisciplinary teams/sarcoma boards (MDT/SBs) are vital in sarcoma management, but differences in their processes can affect patient outcomes and treatment costs, despite adherence to international guidelines. To address this issue, this study aimed to compare two MDT/SBs and establish an interoperable digital platform, Sarconnector®, for real-time-world data assessment and automated analysis. The study included 983 patients, 46.0% of whom female, with a median age of 58 years, and 4.5% of patients presented with metastasis at diagnosis. Differences were observed in the number of first-time presentations, follow-up presentations, primary sarcomas, biopsies and chemotherapy indications between the two MDT/SB. The results highlight the importance of benchmarking and utilizing a harmonized data approach, such as the RWT approach provided by the Sarconnector®, to standardize and evaluate quality and cost metrics. By identifying areas of improvement and making data-driven decisions on the meta-level, healthcare providers can optimize resources and improve patient outcomes. In conclusion, benchmarking with the RWT harmonized data approach provided by the Sarconnector® can help healthcare providers improve the overall effectiveness of the healthcare system and achieve better outcomes for their patients in terms of both outcomes and costs.
Weight Management Effectiveness and Predictors of Dropout in Breast Cancer Survivors: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Cava Edda , Spadaccini Daniele , Aimaretti Gianluca , Marzullo Paolo , Cavigiolo Beatrice , Farinelli Deborah , Gennari Alessandra , Saggia Chiara , Carbonelli Maria Grazia , Riso Sergio , Prodam Flavia
Published: September 2023

Background: Reducing obesity and weight gain, which often occurs during breast cancer treatment, may represent an efficient secondary or tertiary prevention against cancer. Purpose: This retrospective observational cohort study aimed to assess the impact of a Mediterranean diet on weight and anthropometric changes in women completing active breast cancer treatment. Additionally, we sought to identify factors associated with study dropout within one year. Methods: A total of 182 female patients (20 normal weight, 59 overweight, 103 obese) received personalized Mediterranean diet interventions and underwent monthly outpatient visits. Results: Dropout rates were 42.3% at 6 months and 64.1% at 12 months. Among the obese subgroup, BMI (p < 0.001) and fat mass (p < 0.05) decreased after 6 months. At 12 months, the obese subgroup showed a borderline significant further reduction in BMI (p = 0.062). BMI or weight loss did not predict dropout at any time point. However, age (OR = 0.91) and diastolic blood pressure (OR = 1.07) were significant predictors of dropout at 12 months. Conclusion: Implementing a Mediterranean diet can lead to weight and anthropometric improvements in breast cancer survivors. Further research is necessary to explore the long-term effects of weight loss on these individuals, identify effective dietary approaches, and consider specific predictors of dropout.
Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase C677T (rs1801133) Polymorphism Is Associated with Bladder Cancer in Asian Population: Epigenetic Meta-Analysis as Precision Medicine Approach
Authors: Purnomo Athaya Febriantyo , Daryanto Besut , Seputra Kurnia Penta , Budaya Taufiq Nur , Lutfiana Nurul Cholifah , Nurkolis Fahrul , Chung Sanghyun , Suh Jin Young , Park Moon Nyeo , Seo Byung-Kwan , Kim Bonglee
Published: September 2023

The etiology of bladder cancer remains unclear. This study investigates the impact of gene polymorphisms, particularly methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene (MTHFR), on bladder cancer susceptibility, focusing on the rs1801133 single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP). A meta-analysis was conducted after systematically reviewing the MTHFR gene literature, adhering to PRISMA guidelines and registering in PROSPERO (CRD42023423064). Seven studies were included, showing a significant association between the MTHFR C677T (rs1801133) polymorphism and bladder cancer susceptibility. Individuals with the T-allele or TT genotype had a higher likelihood of bladder cancer. In the Asian population, the overall analysis revealed an odds ratio (OR) of 1.15 (95% CI 1.03–1.30; p-value = 0.03) for T-allele versus C-allele and an OR of 1.34 (95% CI 1.04–1.72; p-value = 0.02) for TT genotype versus TC+CC genotype. The CC genotype, however, showed no significant association with bladder cancer. Notably, epigenetic findings displayed low sensitivity but high specificity, indicating reliable identified associations while potentially overlooking some epigenetic factors related to bladder cancer. In conclusion, the MTHFR T-allele and TT genotype were associated with increased bladder cancer risk in the Asian population. These insights into genetic factors influencing bladder cancer susceptibility could inform targeted prevention and treatment strategies. Further research is warranted to validate and expand these findings.
Burden of Illness in Follicular Lymphoma with Multiple Lines of Treatment, Italian RWE Analysis
Authors: Ferreri Andrés J. M. , Zinzani Pier Luigi , Messina Carlo , Valsecchi Diletta , Rendace Maria Chiara , Premoli Eleonora , Giacomini Elisa , Veronesi Chiara , Degli Esposti Luca , Di Matteo Paola
Published: September 2023

This real-world analysis investigated patients with follicular lymphoma in Italy receiving three or more treatment lines (≥3L), focusing on therapeutic pathways with their rebounds on healthcare resource consumptions and costs. Data were retrieved from administrative databases from healthcare entities covering about 13.3 million residents. Adults diagnosed with follicular lymphoma were identified between January 2015 and June 2020, and among them 2434 patients with ≥3L of treatment during the data availability interval (January 2009 to June 2021) were included. Of them, 1318 were in 3L, 494 in 4L and 622 in ≥5L. A relevant proportion of patients (12–32%) switched to a later line within the same calendar year. At 3-year follow-up (median), 34% patients died. Total mean annual expenses were euro 14,508 in the year preceding inclusion and rose to euro 21,081 at 1-year follow-up (on average euro 22,230/patient/year for the whole follow-up), with hospitalization and drug expenses as weightiest cost items. In conclusion, the clinical and economic burden of follicular lymphoma increases along with later treatment lines. The high mortality rates indicate that further efforts are needed to optimize disease management.
Association of Fibrinolytic Potential and Risk of Mortality in Cancer Patients
Authors: Gois Gabriele Silva Souza , Montalvão Silmara Aparecida Lima , Anhaia Thaizy Ramires Alencar , Almeida Millene Evelyn Alves , Martinelli Beatriz Moraes , Fernandes Maria Carmen Gonçalves Lopes , Hubers Stephany Cares , Ferreira Monique R. M. , Ribeiro Daniel Dias , Teixeira Júlio César , Carvalheira José Barreto Campello , Lima Carmen Silvia Passos , Andreollo Nelson Adami , Etchebehere Maurício , Zambon Lair , Ferreira Ubirajara , Tincani Alfio José , Martins Antônio Santos , Coy Cláudio Saddy Rodrigues , Seabra José Cláudio Teixeira , Mussi Ricardo Kalaf , Tedeschi Helder , Anninchino-Bizzacchi Joyce Maria ,   ADVENTH Cancer Group
Published: September 2023

Cancer is a leading cause of death, and the fibrinolytic system shows cooperative effects that facilitate the growth of tumors and the appearance of metastases. This prospective study aimed to evaluate the fibrinolytic potential in cancer patients and its association with mortality outcomes using the fluorometric method of simultaneous thrombin and plasmin generation. The study included 323 cancer patients and 148 healthy individuals. During the 12-month follow-up, 68 patients died. Compared to the control group, cancer patients showed alterations in thrombin production consistent with a hypercoagulability profile, and an increase in plasmin generation. Mortality risk was associated with two parameters of thrombin in both univariate and multivariable analysis: maximum amplitude (Wald 11.78, p < 0.001) and area under the curve (Wald 8.0, p < 0.005), while such associations were not observed for plasmin. In conclusion, this was the first study able to demonstrate the simultaneous evaluation of thrombin and plasmin generation in newly diagnosed untreated cancer patients. Patients with cancer have been observed to exhibit a hypercoagulable profile. During the study, two parameters linked to thrombin generation, MA and AUC, were identified and found to have a potential association with mortality risk. However, no associations were found with parameters related to plasmin generation.
An Overview of Head and Neck Tumor Reirradiation: What Has Been Achieved So Far?
Authors: Gordon Konstantin , Smyk Daniil , Gulidov Igor , Golubev Kirill , Fatkhudinov Timur
Published: September 2023

The recurrence rate of head and neck cancers (HNCs) after initial treatment may reach 70%, and poor prognosis is reported in most cases. Curative options for recurrent HNCs mainly depend on the treatment history and the recurrent tumor localization. Reirradiation for HNCs is effective and has been included in most guidelines. However, the option remains clinically challenging due to high incidence of severe toxicity, especially in cases of quick infield recurrence. Recent technical advances in radiation therapy (RT) provide the means for upgrade in reirradiation protocols. While the majority of hospitals stay focused on conventional and widely accessible modulated RTs, the particle therapy options emerge as tolerable and providing further treatment opportunities for recurrent HNCs. Still, the progress is impeded by high heterogeneity of the data and the lack of large-scale prospective studies. This review aimed to summarize the outcomes of reirradiation for HNCs in the clinical perspective.
Encapsulation of Ciprofloxacin into a Cyclodextrin Polymer Matrix: The Complex Formation with Human Serum Albumin and In Vitro Studies
Authors: Skuredina Anna A. , Kopnova Tatiana Yu. , Belogurova Natalya G. , Kudryashova Elena V.
Published: September 2023

Here, we propose a drug delivery system for ciprofloxacin (CF) based on cyclodextrin (CD) polymer. We obtained a 3D matrix system with encapsulated drug molecules by crosslinking CF+CD non-covalent complexes with 1.6-hexamethylene isocyanate. The obtained polycarbamide (MAX-system) represents particles (~225 nm in diameter) that demonstrate CF’s sustained release. We investigated how the carrier affects the drug’s interaction with the biological macromolecule human serum albumin (HSA) and CF’s antibacterial properties. Compared to a binary CF–HSA system, CD decreases CF’s binding efficiency to HSA by two times, whereas CF encapsulation in a polymer matrix doubles the Ka value and prevents protein aggregation. The changes in HSA’s secondary structure indicate no alterations in the main mechanism of complex formation between CF and HSA in the presence of both CD-based carriers. CD as well as MAX systems practically do not change CF’s activity against E. coli and B. subtilis, but for MAX systems, prolonged action is realized due to CF’s sustained release. We believe that our findings are important for the further development of new, efficient drug forms.
Physical-Literacy-Enriched Physical Education: A Capabilities Perspective
Authors: Durden-Myers Elizabeth , Bartle Gillian
Published: September 2023

(1) Background: Physical literacy is increasing in popularity across the world as a concept central to the promotion of lifelong engagement in physical activity across a multitude of sectors. The education sector has embraced physical literacy as a concept worthy of focus. Physical literacy literature is bold in its claim that physical literacy should be the foundation of physical education. The objective of this paper was to understand the value of physical literacy as the goal of physical education through the lens of the capability approach; (2) Positioning: This research adopted a post-qualitative sensibility whereby knowledge is decentered, favoring the inseparability of ethics, ontology, and knowledge (ethico-onto-epistemology); (3) Discussion: Throughout the discussion, traditional humanist examples are extended to include post-humanism perspectives to offer a more holistic and ecological appreciation of the relationship between capabilities, physical literacy, and physical education, using the ten capabilities of life, bodily health, bodily integrity, senses, imagination and thought, emotions, practical reason, affiliation, other species, play, and control over one’s environment; (4) Conclusions: The paper concludes with the recommendation that the capabilities approach offers a valuable framework for the continued justification of physical-literacy-enriched physical education, which, when aligned, can help to shape the opportunities provided for children and young people in support of their holistic development and lifelong engagement in physical activity.
A Combination of FPU-Net and Feature Clustering Methods for Accurate Segmentation of Femoral Neck in Radiographic Diagnosis
Authors: Chen Y. Y. , Chuang C. H. , Hsieh S. L. , Lin T. L. , Hsu C. J.
Published: September 2023

In this study, we develop an innovative method that assists computer-aided diagnosis in the determination process of the exact location of the femoral neck junction in plain radiographs. Our algorithm consists of two phases, i.e., coarse prediction and fine matching, which are implemented by supervised deep learning method and unsupervised clustering, respectively. In coarse prediction, standard masks are first produced by a specialist and trained in our proposed feature propagation network (FPU-Net) with supervised learning on the femoral neck dataset. In fine matching, the standard masks are first classified into different categories using our proposed three parameters with unsupervised learning. The predicted mask from FPU-Net is matched with each category of standard masks by calculating the values of intersection of union (IOU), and finally the predicted mask is substituted by the standard mask with the largest IOU value. A total of 4320 femoral neck parts in anterior–posterior (AP) pelvis radiographs collected from China Medical University Hospital database were used to test our method. Simulation results show that, on the one hand, compared with other segmentation methods, the method proposed in this paper has a larger IOU value and better suppression of noise outside the region of interest; on the other hand, the introduction of unsupervised learning for fine matching can help in the accurate localization segmentation of femoral neck images. Accurate femoral neck segmentation can assist surgeons to diagnose and reduce the misdiagnosis rate and burden.
Installation Principle and Calculation Model of the Representative Indoor Temperature-Monitoring Points in Large-Scale Buildings
Authors: Lu Mengyao , Xu Guitao , Yuan Jianjuan
Published: September 2023

Although indoor temperature was an important criterion for the evaluation of heating requirements, it was costly to install temperature-monitoring devices in every household for large-scale buildings. However, it was inexpensive to install the device at some representative locations, and the average temperature can be used to evaluate the heating requirement. In this case, it was obvious that the accuracy was limited by the location and number of installations and the calculation method. In this paper, first, the indoor temperature variation relationship between the object and adjacent households was analyzed. It was found that the correlation between the household situated above and the household in which the object was located was the strongest, which provides a new energy-saving regulation strategy. Then, the indoor temperature of households in different locations was classified using the k-means algorithm, and the installment location, number of representative points, and comprehensive indoor temperature calculation model were determined. Finally, the installment principle and calculation model were applied. The results show that, compared with the traditional method, the temperature obtained via the proposed method was closer to the actual temperature and was less affected by the instability of communication.