bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Causes of death and patterns of metastatic disease at the end of life for patients with advanced melanoma in the immunotherapy era
Authors: Lee Daniel Y. , McNamara Madeline , Yang Alexander , Yaskolko Maxim , Kluger Harriet , Tran Thuy , Olino Kelly , Clune James , Sznol Mario , Ishizuka Jeffrey J.
Published: July 2024

Despite remarkable advances in immunotherapy, melanoma remains a significant cause of cancer mortality. Many factors concerning melanoma mortality are poorly understood, posing an obstacle to optimal care. We conducted a retrospective observational cohort study of 183 patients with metastatic melanoma who died following immunotherapy treatment to investigate sites of metastases at death, settings of death, and mechanisms of death. The median time from metastatic diagnosis to death was 16.1 months (range 0.3–135.1 months). Most patients experienced hospitalization within 3 months before death (80.3%), with 31.7% dying while hospitalized, 31.2% while in inpatient hospice, and 29.4% while in home hospice. The most common sites of metastases at death were distant lymph nodes (62.8%), lung (57.9%), liver (50.8%), brain (38.8%), and bone (37.7%). The most common causes of death were progressive failure to thrive (57.5%), respiratory failure (22.4%), and infection (21.8%); the vast majority (87.9%) of patients died from melanoma‐specific causes. Overall, 10.9% of patients in our cohort had survival >5 years after metastatic diagnosis, and 76.2% of long‐term survivors died due to melanoma. This study describes factors associated with melanoma mortality, highlighting an ongoing need for therapeutic advancements.
Cross‐sectional study to identify health literacy, health behavior, and quality of life in Chofu and Komae cities in Japan: Formative research in community‐based nursing practice
Authors: Shimazaki Takashi , Shimura Yuri , Ohashi Toya , Nakamura Hideki , Asakawa Yuiko , Takahashi Kinu
Published: July 2024

The Jikei Academic Nursing Practice Center for the Community developed a community nursing practice that matched community health problems and concerns in Chofu and Komae cities, suburban areas of the Tokyo Metropolis. This study aimed to identify health problems and high‐risk populations via an understanding of the practice of health behaviors, health literacy, and quality of life. This was an online, cross‐sectional study conducted in September 2023. In total, 1520 (Chofu: n = 1170; Komae: n = 350) participants were enrolled. Participants’ demographic characteristics, health literacy, health behaviors, and quality of life scores were obtained. Sleep quality was poor compared with national data. Younger participants had higher poor health literacy, did not practice health behaviors, and had a lower quality of life. In addition, parenting and informal nursing care for family members were associated with unhealthy eating, smoking, drinking, and poor quality of life. This study found that health problems and concerns before planning were significant in increasing the salience of interventions for community residents. Based on the findings of this study, an action plan for community‐wide nursing practice was created.
Subjective and objective assessment of color match of universal tinted sunscreens in Fitzpatrick skin phototypes I–VI
Authors: Bardhi Redina , Mokhtari Mohsen , Masood Mavra , Abdel‐Gadir Deena , McGowan Dorothea , Failla Olivia , Hamzavi Iltefat H. , Lim Henry W. , Kohli Indermeet , Mohammad Tasneem F.
Published: July 2024

Background

Tinted sunscreens not only shield against UV rays but also provide protection against visible light, as opposed to traditional sunscreens. Universal tinted sunscreens are marketed to complement all skin tones.

Objective

To assess color match and subject satisfaction for 7 universal tinted sunscreens across various price ranges in all Fitzpatrick skin phototypes (SPT).

Methods

Products A‐G were applied at concentrations of 1 and 2 mg/cm2 on the dorsal arms of 30 subjects spanning SPT I–VI. Photography, colorimetry, and subject and investigator surveys were utilized to determine color match.

Results

Using colorimetry analysis at the recommended 2 mg/cm2 concentration, two of seven products were identified as suitable matches for SPT I–II, while six out of seven were determined to be a good match for SPT III–IV. However, only one product was found to be a good match for SPT V–VI at the recommended concentration according to colorimetry results.

Conclusion

Universal tinted sunscreens do not provide an adequate color match for all skin phototypes, especially for individuals with very fair or very dark skin tones.
Fluorescence in situ hybridization‐negative intra‐articular myxoid liposarcoma with complex rearrangements involving EWSR1::DDIT3 detected using nanopore sequencing
Authors: Makise Naohiro , Lin Jason , Kageyama Hajime , Takeda Naoki , Oikawa Mariko , Sugiyama Takahiro , Kawana Hidetada , Araki Akinobu , Kinoshita Hideyuki , Kamoda Hiroto , Hagiwara Yoko , Yoshida Akihiko , Yonemoto Tsukasa , Kawazu Masahito , Itami Makiko
Published: July 2024

Myxoid liposarcoma (MLPS) is a rare sarcoma, typically arising in deep soft tissues during the fourth to fifth decades of life. Histologically, MLPS is composed of uniform oval cells within a background of myxoid stroma and chicken‐wire capillaries. Genetically, MLPS is characterized by the FUS/EWSR1::DDIT3 fusion gene, which generally results from balanced interchromosomal translocation and is detectable via DDIT3 break‐apart fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Here, we report an unusual intra‐articular MLPS case, negative for DDIT3 break‐apart FISH but positive for EWSR1::DDIT3. An 18‐year‐old female was referred to our hospital complaining of an intra‐articular mass in the right knee joint. Histologically, the tumor was mainly composed of mature adipocytes, brown fat‐like cells, and lipoblasts. Nanopore sequencing detected DNA rearrangements between EWSR1 and DDIT3 and clustered complex rearrangements involving multiple chromosomes, suggesting chromoplexy. Methylation classification using random forest, t‐distributed stochastic neighbor embedding, and unsupervised hierarchical clustering correctly classified the tumor as MLPS. The copy number was almost flat. The TERT promoter C‐124T was also detected. This report highlights, for the first time, the potential value of a fast and low‐cost nanopore sequencer for diagnosing sarcomas.
Mass political murder: What and where is the hate?
Authors: McCauley Clark
Published: July 2024

This article explores the meaning and importance of hate in intergroup conflict, especially in conflict that moves to genocide or politicide. Review of controversies in defining hate leads to definition of hate as an extreme form of negative identification that includes perception of bad essence. Negative identification is inverse caring for others, as seen in studies of schadenfreude and gluckschmerz. Studies of dehumanization suggest that two forms of bad essence can be distinguished: evil human (entitativity essentializing) and infrahuman animal (natural kind essentializing). Studies also show that those who essentialize more are more ready to punish indiscriminately all members of a rival group—thus essentializing facilitates killing by category. Application of the negative‐identification‐bad‐essence definition of hate in the Nazi, Cambodian, and Rwandan cases indicates that leaders of political mass murder hate their victims, but that hate is relatively unimportant for those who do the killing. For the mass public that leaders and perpetrators claim to represent, the importance of hate as defined here is currently unknown. Implications are considered for measuring hate in texts and polls and for future directions of research on hate.
Passive representation: The effect of affirmative action bans on female representation in law enforcement
Authors: Nam Jaeyeong
Published: July 2024

Studies of representative bureaucracy often focus on underrepresented social groups in the public sector and examine the link between passive representation and active or symbolic representation. This study emphasizes that passive representation is not a fixed condition but can be influenced by policy interventions and shaped by historical passive representation. This study proposes hypotheses that affirmative action bans at the state level, which were adopted with an expectation to yield neutral outcomes by proponents, may not lead to neutral outcomes but can disproportionately decrease female representation in law enforcement. It tests hypotheses using both staggered and two‐way fixed‐effects difference‐in‐difference methods with city‐level panel data from 1988 to 2019. The findings indicate that affirmative action bans have decreased female representation in cities with more than 100 sworn officers. This study provides empirical evidence that the absence of affirmative action may result in the decreased representation of underrepresented and marginalized social groups.
Associations among the largest follicle, preovulatory estradiol concentrations, and predominant vaginal epithelial cells at the completion of hormonal ovarian stimulation for fixed‐time artificial insemination in goats
Authors: Promsao Nalinthip , Yama Punnawut , Suriard Assawadet , Butmata Wichayaporn , Mektrirat Raktham , Panatuk Julakorn , Inyawilert Wilasinee , Intawicha Payungsuk , Jitjumnong Jakree , Wang Chien‐Kai , Moonmanee Tossapol
Published: July 2024

The objective of the present study was to investigate the association among the largest follicle (LF), preovulatory estradiol (E2), and predominant vaginal epithelial cell at the completion of hormonal ovarian stimulation for fixed‐time artificial insemination (FTAI) in goats. Thirty‐seven crossbred Boer does received gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) and intravaginal progesterone (P4)‐releasing devices (day 0). On day 5, P4 devices were removed and does received prostaglandin F2α and equine chorionic gonadotrophin. On day 7, does received GnRH, and FTAI was undertaken. On day 7, does were divided into three groups, i.e. small‐sized (3–3.9 mm; n = 5), medium‐sized (4–4.9 mm; n = 8), and large‐sized (≥5 mm; n = 24) according to the diameter of the ovarian LF; follicular characteristics (number and diameter) were identified, and blood samples and vaginal smears were collected. The average diameters of total antral follicles and LF and the percentage of superficial cell were greatest in large‐sized LF does (p < .01). The average diameters of total antral follicle (r = .68) and LF (r = .71), number of preovulatory follicle (r = .58), and plasma E2 concentrations (r = .61) were positively correlated with the percentage of superficial cells (p < .01). The likelihood of a pregnancy outcome after the FTAI increased by 13.71 times in does with a greater average diameter of antral follicle, 14.18 times with emergence of a large preovulatory follicle, and 36.83 times with a higher percentage of vaginal superficial cells (p < .01). It was concluded that there is a relationship between the cell types of the vaginal epithelium, the diameters of the largest ovarian follicles, and the concentration of E2 in goats subjected to FTAI protocols.
Organic farming improves soil carbon pools and aggregation of sandy soils in the Brazilian semi‐arid region
Authors: de Alencar Guilherme Viana , Gomes Lucas Carvalho , Barros Vanessa Maria de Souza , Ortiz Escobar Maria Eugenia , de Oliveira Teógenes Senna , Mendonça Eduardo de Sá
Published: July 2024

Organic agriculture can be a feasible alternative to improve soil organic carbon contents, but its effects on different carbon pools and the benefits for soil quality in sandy soils of warm climates are still poorly understood. This study aimed to assess the influence of organic and conventional farming systems on carbon pools, and its effects on soil chemical, physical, and biological quality in sandy soils of a semi‐arid region in northeastern Brazil. The experiment was conducted at three sites with different soil managements and adjacent natural vegetations in the municipality of Guaraciaba do Norte, Ceará, Brazil. Four soil profiles were opened, and soil samples were collected from 0 to 1 m depth for soil chemical analysis, and undisturbed soil samples from 0 to 40 cm depth for soil physical and micromorphological analysis. Organic management led to an increase in total organic carbon (from 7.34 to 20.47 g kg−1) at the 0–0.10 m depth, especially in the labile fraction. There was also a threefold increase in cation exchange capacity and up to a fourfold increase in P content in the soil surface layers. Additionally, organic systems led to better soil structure, porosity, and stability, as evidenced by an increase in the average diameter of soil aggregates. Within the aggregates, we found 240% more total organic carbon and 170% more total nitrogen in organic compared to conventional soil management. Micromorphological analysis allowed us to observe that soils under forestry and organic management have coarse quartz grains either totally or partially coated with clay by organic assemblage, while under conventional cultivation, there were reduced amounts of organic assemblages in the spaces between sand grains. Thus, organic farming is seen as a suitable practice for soil organic carbon formation in a short space of time (6 years), contributing to improving soil chemical quality and aggregation in sandy soils in semi‐arid northeastern Brazil.
Low relative air humidity and increased stomatal density independently hamper growth in young Arabidopsis
Authors: Tulva Ingmar , Koolmeister Kaspar , Hõrak Hanna
Published: July 2024

Stomatal pores in plant leaves mediate CO2 uptake for photosynthesis and water loss via transpiration. Altered stomatal density can affect plant photosynthetic capacity, water use efficiency, and growth, potentially providing either benefits or drawbacks depending on the environment. Here we explore, at different air humidity regimes, gas exchange, stomatal anatomy, and growth of Arabidopsis lines designed to combine increased stomatal density (epf1, epf2) with high stomatal sensitivity (ht1‐2, cyp707a1/a3). We show that the stomatal density and sensitivity traits combine as expected: higher stomatal density increases stomatal conductance, whereas the effect is smaller in the high stomatal sensitivity mutant backgrounds than in the epf1epf2 double mutant. Growth under low air humidity increases plant stomatal ratio with relatively more stomata allocated to the adaxial epidermis. Low relative air humidity and high stomatal density both independently impair plant growth. Higher evaporative demand did not punish increased stomatal density, nor did inherently low stomatal conductance provide any protection against low relative humidity. We propose that the detrimental effects of high stomatal density on plant growth at a young age are related to the cost of producing stomata; future experiments need to test if high stomatal densities might pay off in later life stages.
Techno-Entrepreneurship, Relevance Of Techno Entrepreneurship, Challenges of Technology Entrepreneurship
Authors: Onileowo Temitope , Muharam Farrah Merlinda
Published: July 2024

This chapter explores technology entrepreneurs’ role in business, challenges, and opportunities. Technology has become essential to the success of almost any endeavour in modern times, affecting global human activity. The advent of these developments has allowed entrepreneurs and customers to improve business processes, grow businesses, and increase profit margins. However, entrepreneurs encounter challenges in adapting to the swift advancements in technology and adjusting their business models, which inhibits corporate performance and harms the economy. This chapter offers recommendations for technology entrepreneurs to prioritise the acquisition of technological knowledge, optimise the utilisation of available information, and focus on cultivating psychological capital to enhance their chances of success. And for policymakers and the government to streamline regulations, provide financial incentives to support research and development, and facilitate access to funding and resources for entrepreneurs at fair prices. Establishing a collaborative platform for entrepreneurs and government organisations to engage will foster innovative job opportunities and contribute to overall economic growth.
IMPROVING INDOOR AIR QUALITY FOR PREVENTING TRANSMISSION OF COVID-19 AT BACTIGUARD MALAYSIA SDN. BHD AND BACTIGUARD SOUTH EAST ASIA
Authors: Subarmaniam Diroshaa , Hassim Mimi Haryani
Published: July 2024

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Covid-19 was regarded as pandemic in the year 2020. However, the status had eventually changed to endemic in 2022 since there are still until now, cases being reported in daily basis, but mostly those infected person will only experienced reversible health effects, with almost none resulted to death after all countries applied the vaccination and booster program including Malaysia. Covid-19 spread mostly by close contact and respiratory droplets. Covid-19 is a viral transmission via small airborne microdroplets or known as 'aerosols'. According to current information on the airborne transmission of SARS-CoV-2, inhalation at distances greater than 1-2 m from an infected source. As a result, optimising ventilation and air quality in indoor areas is crucial to reducing this risk of airborne transmission especially in workplace. Appropriate ventilation distribution ensures that appropriate dilution is achieved. Filtration is the most effective way for HVAC systems. Small particles are removed most effectively by HEPA filters. The purpose of this research was to analyse potential transmission of Covid-19 at Bactiguard Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. and Bactiguard Malaysia South East Asia, to evaluate existing ventilation system is sufficient to reduce the risk of airborne transmission and propose ventilation air system through engineering control that will reduce risk of airborne transmission via droplets. The research was equipped with survey questionnaire to assess employee knowledge and awareness against transmission of Covid-19 by offering insight of indoor air properties that can be adapted at Bactiguard Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. and Bactiguard South-East Asia based on statistical analysis performed using SPSS statistical analysis, risk assessment and documentation for continuous monitoring of Covid-19 transmission rate.
A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF CIRCULAR ECONOMY ADOPTION IN THE AVIATION INDUSTRY
Authors: Hisan Hafiz , Yusof Khairul Huda , Arshad Azim
Published: July 2024

Aviation industry’s impact on the natural and social environment is undeniable. The industry is moving forward with implementation of initiatives that addresses these issues in which this study is attempting to understand. It is meant to explore the levels of Circular Economy adoption within the industry and the areas needed to be given attention to. However, there is yet a study that addresses industry’s level of CE implementation in a comprehensive manner. Through a systematic literature review, this study has found that the industry must broaden its scope of CE R&D and implementation to the many areas of the R-list framework. The study has finalized 21 literatures in its review and found uneven distribution of CE Rn initiatives throughout the list. From the findings, suggestion is made for the industry and its actors to establish CE units that plan, execute, review and monitor progress of CE adoption within the industry.
CAVITY FLOW CONTROL OF STEPPED HULL FOR WING-IN-GROUND CRAFT
Authors: Adli NZMA , Karimi MSA , Syahin AAT , Methal Z , Bohari B , Saad Mohd Rashdan
Published: July 2024

A wing-in-ground (WIG) craft is a vehicle that is designed to fly at a low altitude and takes advantage of the ground effect. This helps improve the craft’s aerodynamic performance, which in turn reduces fuel consumption as well as improve its overall efficiency. However, the existence of stepped hull on WIG craft causes increase in aerodynamic drag during flight. The abrupt geometry of the stepped hull causes flow separation and reduces the craft’s aerodynamic performance. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effect of cavity as passive flow control on the aerodynamic performance of a WIG craft with a stepped hull. The experiments were conducted in a subsonic wind tunnel at freestream velocity of 5 m/s to 30 m/s. The results show improvement of up to 7% in the lift-to-drag ratio for the current cavity configurations compared to the baseline model. This shows that the cavity is effective and has a huge potential as a passive flow control for a wing-in-ground craft with a stepped hull.
NUMERICAL INVESTIGATION OF BLADE TIP LOSS EFFECT ON THE TORQUE OF H-ROTOR VERTICAL-AXIS WIND TURBINE
Authors: Chun Khai Tan , Mohammad Ahmad Faiz , Rahmat Nurizzatul Atikha , Zaki Sheikh Ahmad , Mohd Redzuan Farah Liana
Published: July 2024

This study examined blade tip loss to understand flow separation around H-Rotor Vertical-Axis Wind Turbines (VAWTs). Vortex development around the blade tip requires flow separation. Near the blade tip, separation creates concentrated vorticity and vortices. Blade tip vortices affect Vertical Axis Wind Turbine (VAWT) efficiency. Understanding flow separation and vortex dynamics improves VAWT performance. This study uses 3D CFD using the Improved Delayed Detached Eddy Simulation (IDDES) turbulence model. Simulation accuracy can be studied using several test cases with different grid densities and time step durations. Comparisons include instantaneous, overall blade torque coefficient, and span-wise torque coefficient. The mid-span of the blade has the maximum torque coefficient, which drops towards the tip, reducing performance owing to tip loss. This shows that IDDES can capture blade tip vortices' creation and behaviour. Comparing IDDES simulation results with experimental data shows that it can simulate sophisticated H-Rotor VAWT vortex dynamics. Blade tip vortices affected H-Rotor VAWT torque in this investigation. The IDDES turbulence model, mesh, and time step selection demonstrate the importance of correct simulation in VAWT performance optimisation. Energy efficiency is improved by more precisely designing and operating complicated wind energy systems.
Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of bacteriophage therapy: a review with a focus on multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacterial infections
Authors: Siopi Maria , Skliros Dimitrios , Paranos Paschalis , Koumasi Nikoletta , Flemetakis Emmanouil , Pournaras Spyros , Meletiadis Joseph
Published: July 2024

Despite the early recognition of their therapeutic potential and the current escalation of multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens, the adoption of bacteriophages into mainstream clinical practice is hindered by unfamiliarity with their basic pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) properties, among others. Given the self-replicative nature of bacteriophages in the presence of host bacteria, the adsorption rate, and the clearance by the host’s immunity, their PK/PD characteristics cannot be estimated by conventional approaches, and thus, the introduction of new considerations is required. Furthermore, the multitude of different bacteriophage types, preparations, and treatment schedules impedes drawing general conclusions on their
in vivo
PK/PD features. Additionally, the drawback of acquired bacteriophage resistance of MDR pathogens with clinical and environmental implications should be taken into consideration. Here, we provide an overview of the current state of the field of PK and PD of bacteriophage therapy with a focus on its application against MDR Gram-negative infections, highlighting the potential knowledge gaps and the challenges in translation from the bench to the bedside. After reviewing the
in vitro
PKs and PDs of bacteriophages against the four major MDR Gram-negative pathogens,
Klebsiella pneumoniae
,
Acinetobacter baumannii
complex,
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
, and
Escherichia coli
, specific data on
in vivo
PKs (tissue distribution, route of administration, and basic PK parameters in animals and humans) and PDs (survival and reduction of bacterial burden in relation to the route of administration, timing of therapy, dosing regimens, and resistance) are summarized. Currently available data merit close scrutiny, and optimization of bacteriophage therapy in the context of a better understanding of the underlying PK/PD principles is urgent to improve its therapeutic effect and to minimize the occurrence of bacteriophage resistance.
Concurrent existence of cold agglutinin disease and ANCA-associated vasculitis with fulminant pulmonary-renal syndrome poses significant treatment challenges
Authors: Schanz Moritz , Wagner Benedikt , Bekeredjian Raffi , Latus Joerg
Published: July 2024

We present a case of a man in his 40s with pulmonary-renal syndrome due to myeloperoxidase-positive antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies-associated vasculitis and concurrent cold agglutinin disease, a combination that has not yet been described in the literature. The fulminant course of the disease, including the need for kidney replacement therapy and mechanical ventilation posed a significant treatment challenge due to haemolytic complications.
Spatial Distribution and Pollution Assessment of Metals in Sediments of the Babon River, Central Java, Indonesia
Authors: Haeruddin Haeruddin , Soegianto Agoes , Purwanti Frida , Rahman Arif , Payus Carolyn Melissa , Effendi Hefni
Published: July 2024

Background. The Babon River is one of the drainage channels in Semarang, Indonesia, that is used for drinking water, irrigated agriculture of paddy fields and gardens, fish farming media, and the disposal of industrial wastewater. This study aimed to assess the spatial distribution of metals in the sediment of the Babon River through the utilization of different pollution indices. These indices included concentration factor (Cf), contamination factor (CF), enrichment factor (EF), geoaccumulation index (Igeo), sediment pollution index (SPI), threshold effect level (TEL), and probable effect level (PEL). Methods. Seven sampling locations were sampled for water and sediment in April, June, and September of 2021. The measurement of the metal was conducted using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Results. The findings of the study demonstrated that sediments with a predominant sand texture exhibited higher levels of Cd and Pb, while the sediments characterized by a predominant clay texture had a higher concentration of Cr. Upon analyzing the Cf, CF, EF, Igeo, and SPI data, it has been confirmed that the sediment in the Babon River has substantial levels of Cd, Cr, and Pb. According to the TEL and PEL values, it can be observed that the presence of Cd and Pb has detrimental effects on the biological health of the benthic biota. Conclusions. The aquatic biota and the benthic environment may be subject to adverse effects in the event where the concentration of metals in the sediment is higher than the natural concentration of metals.
Factors Predicting Insecticide‐Treated Bednet Use among Children under Age Five in Female‐Headed Households in Ghana: An Analysis of the 2019 Malaria Indicator Survey
Authors: Klu Desmond , Afrifa-Anane Grace Frempong , Odame Michael Larbi
Published: July 2024

Background. Malaria remains a major cause of death for children under five in most sub‐Saharan African countries. Previous research has indicated a potential role of the sex of household heads in household health‐seeking behaviour. However, there is limited knowledge on the factors that affect the use of insecticide‐treated bednets among children under five residing in female‐headed households (FHHs) in Ghana. This paper aims to examine the household factors that influence insecticide‐treated bednet (ITN) use among children under five living in FHH in Ghana. Methods. The study used data from the 2019 Ghana Malaria Indicator Survey (GMIS), which included a weighted sample of 2,018 female household heads across the 16 regions of Ghana. This survey was carried out between September 25 and November 24, 2019. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, employing both descriptive and binary logistic regression modelling. A P value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results. Only 18% of children under five living in FHHs slept under ITNs. Children under age five residing in female headed household with poorest (aOR = 2.54; CI: 1.19–5.39), poorer (aOR = 2.65; CI: 1.42–4.93), and middle (aOR = 1.97; CI: 1.13–3.44) wealth index and with 5–10 (aOR = 4.09; CI: 3.02–5.54) and 11+ (aOR = 8.56; CI: 2.90–25.28) household members were more likely to use ITN for malaria prevention. However, children living with older female household heads aged 70 years and above (aOR = 0.12; CI: 0.07–0.21), 60–69 years (aOR = 0.23; CI: 0.14–0.38), and those residing in urban areas (aOR = 0.59; CI: 0.43–0.82) were less probable to sleep under treated bednet. Conclusion. The study recommends continuous and intensified advocacy campaigns in ITN use among poor households headed by females and urge the relevant stakeholders to target older FHHs for support that would encourage the use of ITNs among children.
Capillary Glycated Hemoglobin A1c Percentiles and the Risk Factors Associated with Abnormal HbA1c among Chinese Children Aged 3–12 Years
Authors: Ren Longbing , Yang Jing , Wu Lezhou , Gao Yan , Zhou Zhitong , Li Pin , Shen Zhiping , Wu Juanli , Li Jue , Zhang Lijuan
Published: July 2024

Objective. Capillary glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) may enhance screening for childhood prediabetes and diabetes, but variations in this parameter remain unclear. We aimed to develop percentiles of HbA1c and explore the influence of various variables on HbA1c level among Chinese children. Study Design and Methods. The data were derived from the Shanghai Children’s Health and Nutrition Community‐based Epidemiologic Survey (CHANCE). A total of 4,615 children aged 3–12 years were included. The capillary HbA1c level was measured using point‐of‐care (POC) testing analyzers. Abnormal HbA1c level was identified as HbA1c (%) value equal to or above the 95th percentile of the nomograms. Results. The mean HbA1c value was 5.30% (SD = 0.50%). The age‐specific 95th percentile thresholds of HbA1c (%) ranged from 5.9 to 6.2 among all children. In the whole participants, body mass index (BMI), total cholesterol (TC), outdoor activity frequency, and daily sleep duration were positively associated with high HbA1c. Among preschool‐aged children, TC and sleep duration ≥10 hr per day were associated with increased risk of being in the higher HbA1c (both P < 0.05). Among the school‐aged group, positive associations with HbA1c levels were identified for TC, living with grandparents, frequency of outdoor activity, and sleep duration (all P < 0.05). Conclusions. The present study established capillary HbA1c percentiles based on a large sample of Chinese children among aged 3–12 years. Daily sleep duration and frequency of outdoor activity, BMI, and TC were found to be associated with high HbA1c. Actions of successful public strategies that focus on promoting a healthy lifestyle, including regular physical exercise to reduce weight among children, are needed. Key Points. We used POC testing for capillary HbA1c with a finger‐stick sample which may offer an opportunity to enhance screening and early diagnosis for childhood and adolescent diabetes, which was suggested as an essential premise to determine the subject’s glycemic status by the American Diabetes Association (ADA). Capillary HbA1c levels fluctuate during childhood, while there has been no population‐based study on HbA1c reference values in Chinese youths.
Targeting YAP Activity and Glutamine Metabolism Cooperatively Suppresses Tumor Progression by Preventing Extracellular Matrix Accumulation
Authors: Park Mihyang , Jin Jonghwa , An Da Young , Kim Dong-Ho , Lee Jaebon , Yun Jae Won , Hwang Ilseon , Park Jae Seok , Kim Mi Kyung , Lee You Mie , Byun Jun-Kyu , Choi Yeon-Kyung , Park Keun-Gyu
Published: July 2024

Cancer cells use multiple mechanisms to evade the effects of glutamine metabolism inhibitors. The pathways that govern responses to alterations in glutamine availability within the tumor may represent therapeutic targets for combinatorial strategies with these inhibitors. Here, we showed that targeting glutamine utilization stimulated Yes-associated protein (YAP) signaling in cancer cells by reducing cyclic adenosine monophosphate/protein kinase A (PKA)–dependent phosphorylation of large tumor suppressor (LATS). Elevated YAP activation induced extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition by increasing the secretion of connective tissue growth factor that promoted the production of fibronectin and collagen by surrounding fibroblasts. Consequently, inhibiting YAP synergized with inhibition of glutamine utilization to effectively suppress tumor growth in vivo, along with a concurrent decrease in ECM deposition. Blocking ECM remodeling also augmented the tumor suppressive effects of the glutamine utilization inhibitor. Collectively, these data reveal mechanisms by which targeting glutamine utilization increases ECM accumulation and identify potential strategies to reduce ECM levels and increase the efficacy of glutamine metabolism inhibitors.

Significance: Blocking glutamine utilization activates YAP to promote ECM deposition by fibroblasts, highlighting the potential of YAP inhibitors and antifibrotic strategies as promising approaches for effective combination metabolic therapies in cancer.
NQO1 Triggers Neutrophil Recruitment and NET Formation to Drive Lung Metastasis of Invasive Breast Cancer
Authors: Wang Xinzhi , Qu Yi , Xu Qianqian , Jiang Zeyu , Wang Hang , Lin Binyan , Cao Zehong , Pan Yuqi , Li Sheng , Hu Yili , Yang Hui , He Li , Chang Hang , Hang Bo , Wen Hongmei , Wu Hao , Mao Jian-Hua
Published: July 2024

Metastasis to the lungs is a leading cause of death for patients with breast cancer. Therefore, effective therapies are urgently needed to prevent and treat lung metastasis. In this study, we uncovered a mechanism by which NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) orchestrates lung metastasis. NQO1 stabilized and upregulated peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase A (PPIA), a chaperone that regulates protein conformation and activity, by preventing its oxidation at a critical cysteine residue C161. PPIA subsequently activated CD147, a membrane protein that facilitates cell invasion. Moreover, NQO1-induced secretion of PPIA modulated the immune landscape of both primary and lung metastatic sites. Secreted PPIA engaged CD147 on neutrophils and triggered the release of neutrophil extracellular traps (NET) and neutrophil elastase, which enhanced tumor progression, invasiveness, and lung colonization. Pharmacological targeting of PPIA effectively inhibited NQO1-mediated breast cancer lung metastasis. These findings reveal a previously unrecognized NQO1-PPIA-CD147-NET axis that drives breast cancer lung metastasis. Inhibiting this axis is a potential therapeutic strategy to limit lung metastasis in patients with breast cancer.

 Significance: NQO1 stabilizes and promotes the secretion of PPIA to activate CD147 in neutrophils and stimulate NET formation, promoting breast cancer lung metastasis and providing therapeutic targets for this fatal condition.
Figure 3 from A Kinome-Wide Synthetic Lethal CRISPR/Cas9 Screen Reveals That mTOR Inhibition Prevents Adaptive Resistance to CDK4/CDK6 Blockade in HNSCC
Authors: Goto Yusuke , Koshizuka Keiichi , Ando Toshinori , Izumi Hiroki , Wu Xingyu , Sato Kuniaki , Ishikawa Tomohiko , Ford Kyle , Feng Xiaodong , Wang Zhiyong , Arang Nadia , Allevato Michael M. , Kishore Ayush , Mali Prashant , Gutkind J. Silvio
Published: July 2024

Upregulation of CCNE1 by palbociclib confers resistance to palbociclib, which can be reverted by INK128. A, Relative mRNA levels of CCND1 and CCNE1 in Cal27 treated with INK128 and/or palbociclib for 24 hours. B, Signaling change with INK128 and/or palbociclib treatment. Cal27 cells were treated with 50 nmol/L of INK128, 1 µmol/L of palbociclib, or both for 48 hours after serum starvation overnight and were analyzed for indicated proteins by Western blotting. C, Cell viability of Cal27 cells treated with palbociclib. Comparison of wt, overexpressing CCND1, CCNE1, and both (mean ± SEM, n = 3). D, Cell viability of Cal27 cells treated with palbociclib. Comparison of wt, overexpressing CCNE1, and CCNE1+INK128 treatment (mean ± SEM, n = 3). E, eIF4G binding assay with INK128 and/or palbociclib treatment for CCNE1. Proteins from each treated Cal27 were immunoprecipitated by eIF4G. RNA was extracted from the IP product, and expression of CCNE1 was determined by qPCR (mean ± SEM, n = 3). F, eIF4G binding assay with INK128 and/or palbociclib treatment for CCND1. Proteins from each treated Cal27 were immunoprecipitated by eIF4G. RNA was extracted from the IP product, and expression of CCND1 was determined by qPCR (mean ± SEM, n = 3). G, Schema for CCND1 and CCNE1 mRNA translation. mTORC1 phosphorylates 4EBP1 and promotes mRNA translation. ****, P < 0.0001; ***, P < 0.001; **, P < 0.01; *, P < 0.05; ns, nonsignificant. P value was determined using one-way ANOVA with the Tukey post hoc test in A. P value was determined using two-way ANOVA with the Tukey post hoc test in E and F. (Created with BioRender.com.)
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Assessment of Pulmonary Vascularity in Preterm Infants with Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia
Authors: Mukthapuram Shanmukha , Donaher Addison , Higano Nara S. , Rowe James A. , Tkach Jean A. , Woods Jason C. , Kingma Paul S.
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Pulmonary hypertension often complicates bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) and infants with BPD plus pulmonary hypertension experience higher mortality rates. Current methods to evaluate pulmonary hypertension fail to evaluate the primary cause of this disease. We hypothesize that preterm infants with BPD experience altered pulmonary vascular growth and that magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to assess vascularity in BPD. Methods: In this observational cohort study, preterm infants with BPD (n = 33) and controls (n = 6) received a postnatal chest MRI that included a 2-dimensional time-of-flight acquisition. Semi-automatic segmentation was performed to measure vascularity parameters including vascular volume and density (vascular density = vascular volume/lung volume). Results: Vascular volume on MRI increases with post-menstrual age (877.2 mm3/week); however, the vascular density does not significantly change. Vascular volume is higher in infants with more severe BPD (p < 0.002), but vascular density did not significantly change when comparing mild, moderate, and severe BPD. Vascular density in infants with severe BPD requiring tracheostomy trended lower when compared to infants not requiring tracheostomy (0.18 mm3/mm3 vs. 0.27 mm3/mm3, p = 0.06). Vascular density increases with increasing days of inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) therapy in infants with severe BPD (0.02 mm3/mm3/week of iNO, rho = +0.56, p = 0.03). Conclusion: Neonatal MRI can be used to assess pulmonary vascularity in preterm infants with BPD. Infants with BPD experience altered vascular growth and while higher vascular volume is associated with more severe BPD, lower vascular density trends toward worse clinical outcomes. Vascular density increases with iNO therapy in severe BPD.
Volitionally Regulated Breathing with Prolonged Expiration Influences Food Craving and Impulsivity
Authors: Telles Shirley , Gupta Ami , Sharma Sachin Kumar , Balkrishna Acharya
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Previously, an intervention involving volitional slow breathing reduced trait food craving with protective effects on cardiac vagal activity (CVA). Breathing with a low inspiration-to-expiration (i/e) ratio also increases CVA. High CVA was separately associated with low unregulated eating and lesser impulsivity. Hence, the present study assessed breathing with a low i/e for effects on state food craving, hunger and satiety, state impulsivity, and heart rate variability (HRV) in healthy obese persons. Methods: Forty obese persons were randomized to two groups. The intervention group (mean age ± SD, 41.15 ± 12.63, M:F, 10:10) practiced metronome-regulated breathing with low i/e at 12 breaths per minute (expiration 72% of total breath duration) and attained expiration 55.8% of total breath duration, while the active control group (mean age ± SD, 44.45 ± 11.06, M:F, 13:07) sat motionless and directed their gaze and awareness to the stationary metronome without modifying their breath consciously. The HRV was recorded before, during, and after breathing intervention (or control) (standard limb lead I, acquisition at 2,000 Hz, with an LF filter = 0.5 Hz and HF filter = 50 Hz). Time-domain and frequency-domain HRV parameters were obtained with Kubios software. State food craving, and hunger and satiety were recorded before and after the intervention/control. Results: The intervention group decreased total state food craving scores and the sub-domains (i.e., desire to eat, positive reinforcement, lack of control and hunger), increased current satisfaction with food, decreased total state impulsivity (repeated measures ANOVA, p < 0.05 in all cases), increased HF-HRV and RMSSD (linear mixed model analyses with age and gender as fixed factors; p < 0.05 in all cases) during the intervention compared to the preceding baseline. The intervention group also showed an increase in positive mood and a decrease in aroused and negative mood states. Conclusion: Changes in state food craving and impulsivity could be related to an increase in HRV or to changes in subjective relaxation and positive mood or to both.
Unsupervised Clustering of Membranoproliferative Glomerulonephritis and C3 Glomerulopathy Patients Discovers Distinct Patient Groups unlike the Current Classification
Authors: Kovala Marja , Seppälä Minna , Wojnicki Mikolaj , Honkanen Eero , Meri Seppo , Kaartinen Kati , Räisänen-Sokolowski Anne
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis is currently divided into immunoglobulin-mediated glomerulonephritis (IC-MPGN) and C3 glomerulopathy (C3G); however, the patients often overlap with histology, complement, clinical and prognostic factors. Our aim was to investigate if an unsupervised clustering method finds different patient groups in 44 IC-MPGN/C3G patients using only histological and clinical data available in everyday clinical work. Methods: Primary IC-MPGN/C3G adult patients were included whose diagnostic (baseline) native biopsy was obtained in 2006–2017. The biopsies were reassessed and the clinical data at baseline and during follow-up were obtained from the medical records. There were 39 baseline histological and clinical variables included in the unsupervised clustering. Follow-up information was combined with the clustering results. Results: The clustering resulted in two clusters (n = 24 and n = 20 patients for clusters 1–2, respectively), where cluster 1 had a significantly higher baseline plasma creatinine (mean 213 vs. 104, respectively, p value <0.001) and a lower baseline eGFR than cluster 2 (mean 37 vs. 70, respectively, p value <0.001). Regarding histology, chronic changes such as lobulated glomeruli, mesangial matrix expansion, and glomeruli double contours were more prevalent in cluster 1 (p value <0.001). Biopsy morphology was more often crescentic and membranoproliferative in cluster 1 (p value <0.001). Although the differences were insignificant, cluster 1 patients were in dialysis in the last follow-up or had a progressive disease more often than cluster 2 patients (21% vs. 5%, 38% vs. 10%). Conclusions: Our results indicate that these patients share greater similarity than the current classification IC-MPGN versus C3G indicates.
Recommendations for Implementing the INTERACT3 Care Bundle for Intracerebral Hemorrhage in Latin America: Results of a Delphi Method
Authors: Allende Ma. Ignacia , Muñoz-Venturelli Paula , Gonzalez Francisca , Bascur Francisca , Anderson Craig S. , Ouyang Menglu , Cabieses Baltica , Obach Alexandra , Cano-Nigenda Vanessa , Arauz Antonio ,   on behalf of the LATAM INTERACT3 Consensus Statement Panel
Published: July 2024

Introduction: The third Intensive Care Bundle with Blood Pressure Reduction in Acute Cerebral Hemorrhage Trial (INTERACT3) showed that the implementation of a care bundle improves outcomes after acute intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). We aimed to establish consensus-based recommendations for the broader integration of the care bundle across Latin American countries (LAC). Methods: A 3-phase Delphi study allowed a panel of 32 healthcare workers from 14 LAC to sequentially rank statements relevant to 7 domains (training, resources/infrastructure, patient education, blood pressure, temperature, glycemic control, and anticoagulation reversal). The pre-defined consensus threshold was 75%. Results: A total of 43 statements reached consensus by the third round, with 12 new statements emerging through rounds. The highest-ranked statements in each domain emphasized critical aspects, but successful implementation requires appropriate resourcing. Key priorities were continuous training of all healthcare workers in ICH management, establishing protocols aligned with available resources, and collaborative interdisciplinary care supported by institutional networks. Statements related to anticoagulation reversal had the highest priority. Conclusions: Consensus statements are provided to facilitate integration of the INTERACT3 care bundle to reduce disparities in ICH outcomes in LAC.
Impact of Early- and High-Dose Caffeine on the Cerebellum Development in Newborn Rats
Authors: Lemus-Varela Lourdes , Torres-Mendoza Blanca , Rabago-Domingo Paola , Cárdenas-Bedoya Jhonathan , Zúñiga-González Guillermo M. , Torres-Sanchez Erandis D. , Gabriel-Ortiz Genaro
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Preterm newborns struggle with maintaining an adequate respiratory pattern; early caffeine administration is suggested to stimulate respiration and reduce bronchopulmonary dysplasia, however, its consequences on the immature cerebellum remains unknown. This study aimed to assess the impact of early caffeine administration, at standard and high doses, accompanied by supplemental oxygen on cerebellar development in an experimental model. Methods: Five groups of Wistar pups were formed (n = 8 offspring/group): (a) negative control: no intervention; (b) placebo: pups remaining from birth until the 7th day of life (DOL) exposed to fractional inspired oxygen (FiO2) 45%, resembling preterm infant condition and as a placebo, 0.2 mL oral 5% dextrose, from the first DOL until the 14th DOL; (c) caffeine group: oral caffeine, 1st DOL 20 mg/kg, and from 2nd to 14th DOL, 5 mg/kg (standard dose); (d) caffeine at the standard dose, plus O2: during the first 7 DOLs (FiO2: 45%); (e) caffeine: 40 mg/kg in the first DOL, 10 mg/kg the next 14 DOLs, plus O2 in the first 7 DOLs (FiO2: 45%). Subjects were sacrificed on their 15th DOL; measurements were taken from the cerebellum, specifically the external granular layer (EGL) and molecular layer (ML), with quantification of cell migration. Results: Caffeine administration in pups resulted in a delay in cerebellum development based on persistent transitional EGL cells; this finding was exacerbated in groups exposed to caffeine plus O2, as evident from the thicker EGL. The negative control group showed near-complete cell migration with a thicker ML and a significantly smaller EGL. Conclusions: Early caffeine administration in newborn rats disrupts cerebellar cortex cell processes and connectivity pathways, with exacerbated effects in groups receiving caffeine plus O2.