bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hyperleukocytosis in a neuroblastoma patient after treatment with natural killer T cells expressing a GD2-specific chimeric antigen receptor and IL-15
Authors: Tian Gengwen , Courtney Amy N , Yu Hangjin , Bhar Saleh , Xu Xin , Barragán Gabriel A , Martinez Amador Claudia , Ghatwai Nisha , Wood Michael S , Schady Deborah , Montalbano Antonino , Reddy Shantan , Roche Aoife M , de la Cerda David , Parsons Donald Williams , Di Pierro Erica J , Bushman Frederic D , Heczey Andras , Metelitsa Leonid S
Published: January 2025

The ability of immune cells to expand numerically after infusion distinguishes adoptive immunotherapies from traditional drugs, providing unique therapeutic advantages as well as the potential for unmanageable toxicities. Here, we describe a case of lethal hyperleukocytosis in a patient with neuroblastoma treated on phase 1 clinical trial (NCT03294954) with autologous natural killer T cells (NKTs) expressing a GD2-specific chimeric antigen receptor and cytokine interleukin 15 (GD2-CAR.15). This patient was the first to be treated on dose level (DL) 5 and the first patient whose product was restimulated with K562-derived artificial antigen-presenting cells (aAPCs) instead of autologous peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). 12 previously treated patients on DLs 1 through 4 did not experience significant toxicity. Our root-cause analysis revealed no genetic alterations of known clinical significance and excluded the possibility of clonal expansion due to insertional retroviral mutagenesis. We report that the use of aAPCs instead of PBMCs for CAR-NKT restimulation contributed to a hyperproliferative state associated with distinct gene expression that possibly led to explosive lymphocyte expansion and uncontrolled toxicity in the patient. These findings warrant the implementation of measures to control immune cell activation during manufacture of cell therapy products, especially those armed with transgenic cytokines.
HDAC and MEK inhibition synergistically suppresses HOXC6 and enhances PD-1 blockade efficacy in BRAFV600E-mutant microsatellite stable colorectal cancer
Authors: Sun Zhuang , Shi Mengyuan , Xia Jinhong , Li Xin , Chen Nan , Wang Hanyang , Gao Zhaoya , Jia Jinying , Yang Peng , Ji Dengbo , Gu Jin
Published: January 2025

Background

B-Raf proto-oncogene, serine/threonine kinase (BRAF)V600E-mutant microsatellite stable (MSS) colorectal cancer (CRC) constitutes a distinct CRC subgroup, traditionally perceived as minimally responsive to standard therapies. Recent clinical attempts, such as BRAF inhibitors (BRAFi) monotherapy and combining BRAFi with other inhibitors, have yielded unsatisfactory efficacy. This study aims to identify a novel therapeutic strategy for this challenging subgroup.

Methods

We first performed a large-scale drug screening using patient-derived organoid models and cell lines to pinpoint potential therapies. Subsequently, we investigated the synergistic effects of identified effective inhibitors and probed their cooperative mechanisms. Concurrently, we explored the immune characteristics of BRAFV600EMSS CRC using RNA sequencing and multiplex immunohistochemistry. Finally, we established a CT26 BRAFV637Emouse cell line and validated the efficacy of combining these inhibitors and programmed death 1 (PD-1) blockades in immunocompetent mice.

Results

Drug screening identified histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor and mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK) inhibitor as significantly effective against BRAFV600EMSS CRC. Further research revealed that these two inhibitors have superior synergistic effects by comprehensively inhibiting the activation of the epidermal growth factor receptor, mitogen-activated protein kinase, and phosphoinositide 3-kinase-protein kinase B pathways and suppressing the key target homeobox C6 (HOXC6). HOXC6, overexpressed in BRAFV600EMSS CRC, regulates the MYC gene and contributes to treatment resistance, tumor growth, and metastasis. Moreover, the combination therapy demonstrated the ability to enhance antitumor immunity by synergistically upregulating the expression of immune activation-related genes, activating the cyclic guanosine monophosphate–adenosine monophosphate synthase/stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS/STING) pathway, and diminishing the tumor cells’ DNA mismatch repair capacity. Notably, BRAFV600EMSS CRC was identified to exhibit a distinct immune microenvironment with increased PD-1+cell infiltration and potential responsiveness to immunotherapy. Echoing the above findings, in vivo, HDAC and MEK inhibitors significantly improved PD-1 blockade efficacy, accompanied by increased CD8+T-cell infiltration.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that combining HDAC inhibitor, MEK inhibitor, and PD-1 blockade is a potential strategy for treating BRAFV600E-mutant MSS CRC, warranting further investigation in clinical settings.
Utilization of primary tumor samples for cancer neoantigen discovery
Authors: Leko Vid , Groh Eric , Levi Shoshana T , Copeland Amy R , White Bradley Sinclair , Gasmi Billel , Li Yong , Hill Victoria , Gurusamy Devikala , Levin Noam , Kim Sanghyun Peter , Sindiri Sivasish , Gartner Jared J , Prickett Todd D , Parkhust Maria , Lowery Frank J , Goff Stephanie L , Rosenberg Steven A , Robbins Paul
Published: January 2025

Background

The use of tumor-infiltrating T lymphocytes (TIL) that recognize cancer neoantigens has led to lasting remissions in metastatic melanoma and certain cases of metastatic epithelial cancer. For the treatment of the latter, selecting cells for therapy typically involves laborious screening of TIL for recognition of autologous tumor-specific mutations, detected through next-generation sequencing of freshly resected metastatic tumors. Our study explored the feasibility of using archived formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) primary tumor samples for cancer neoantigen discovery, to potentially expedite this process and reduce the need for resections normally required for tumor sequencing.

Method

Whole-exome sequencing was conducted on matched primary and metastatic colorectal cancer samples from 22 patients. The distribution of metastatic tumor mutations that were confirmed as neoantigens through cognate TIL screening was evaluated in the corresponding primary tumors. Mutations unique to primary tumors were screened for recognition by metastasis-derived TIL and circulating T lymphocytes.

Results

We found that 25 (65.8%) of the 38 validated neoantigens identified in metastatic tumors from 18 patients with colorectal cancer were also present in matched primary tumor samples. This included all 12 neoantigens encoded by putative cancer driver genes, which are generally regarded as superior targets for adoptive cell therapy. The detection rate for other neoantigens, representing mutations without an established role in cancer biology, was 50% (13/26). Gene products encoding neoantigens detected in the primary tumors were not more likely to be clonal or broadly distributed among the analyzed metastatic lesions compared with those undetected in the primary tumors. Additionally, we found that mutations detected only in primary tumor samples did not elicit recognition by metastatic tumor-derived TIL but could elicit specific recognition by the autologous circulating memory T cells.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that primary FFPE tumor-derived screening libraries could be used to discover most neoantigens present in metastatic tumors requiring treatment. Furthermore, this approach can reveal additional neoantigens not present in resected metastatic tumors, prompting further research to understand their clinical relevance as potential therapeutic targets.
What is the risk of transfusing group O RhD-positive red blood cells to female service personnel of childbearing potential?
Authors: Yazer Mark H , Scorer T , McConnell D , Gluyas-Harris J
Published: January 2025

The traditional approach to resuscitating injured women of childbearing potential (WCBP) with an unknown RhD type is to transfuse RhD-negative blood products. This is to prevent alloimmunisation to the RhD antigen and ultimately prevent haemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN) in future pregnancies should she survive. RhD-negative blood products are scarce in both military and civilian blood stocks. It is likely that only RhD-positive blood products are available for a servicewoman injured in combat. This analysis will review the latest models of D-alloimmunisation following transfusion of RhD-positive blood products to injured WCBPs, the subsequent rates of adverse events from HDFN and describe some surveys of WCBPs’ preferences for transfusion in emergency situations. These data and opinions all point to the same conclusion: RhD-negative blood products should be the first choice for the resuscitation of women at risk of HDFN, but their absence should never lead to withholding a lifesaving transfusion.
Association between left ventricular reverse remodelling and the B-type natriuretic peptide–cGMP cascade after anterior acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Arai Marina , Asaumi Yasuhide , Honda Satoshi , Ogata Soshiro , Kiyoshige Eri , Nakao Kazuhiro , Miura Hiroyuki , Morita Yoshiaki , Nakashima Takahiro , Murai Kota , Iwai Takamasa , Sawada Kenichiro , Matama Hideo , Fujino Masashi , Takahama Hiroyuki , Yoneda Shuichi , Takagi Kensuke , Otsuka Fumiyuki , Kataoka Yu , Nishimura Kunihiro , Noguchi Teruo , Minamino Naoto , Yasuda Satoshi
Published: January 2025

Background

The role of cyclic guanosine 3′,5′-monophosphate (cGMP) after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is not well understood despite its significance as a second messenger of natriuretic peptides (NPs) in cardiovascular disease. We investigated the association between the NP-cGMP cascade and left ventricular reverse remodelling (LVRR) in anterior AMI.

Methods

67 patients with their first anterior AMI (median age, 64 years; male, 76%) underwent prospective evaluation of plasma concentrations of the molecular forms of A-type and B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and cGMP from immediately after primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) to 10 months post-AMI. The estimated mature BNP (emBNP) concentration was calculated as the difference between total BNP and prohormone of BNP (proBNP) concentrations. Patients were divided into LVRR and non-LVRR groups on the basis of residuals between observed change in left ventricular end-systolic volume index on MR during the first 11 months after AMI and change adjusted for proBNP concentration immediately post-PPCI, which was calculated with regression. The LVRR group (n=33) had residuals below the median; the non-LVRR group (n=34) had residuals at or above the median.

Results

The LVRR group had higher freedom from major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) than the non-LVRR group during a median follow-up of 9.9 years (p=0.008). The presence of LVRR (HR 0.256; 95% CI 0.081 to 0.809; p=0.028) and peak creatine phosphokinase–myocardial band level (per 100 IU/L) (HR 1.22; 95% CI 1.02 to 1.46; p=0.027) were independent predictors of MACCE after adjusting for age, male sex, infarct size and hypertension. Multivariable analyses identified logarithmic proBNP and emBNP concentrations from 12 hours to 5 days post-AMI and logarithmic cGMP concentration from immediately post-PPCI to 3 days post-AMI as independent predictors of LVRR (p<0.05).

Conclusions

Early-phase BNP-cGMP cascade activation might play a crucial role in LVRR in anterior AMI.
Can aortic valve calcium score predict a need for permanent pacemaker implantation after transcatheter aortic valve implantation?
Authors: Barbe Thomas , Fauvel Charles , Hemery Thibaut , Le Pessec Guillaume , Tron Christophe , Bouhzam Najime , Bettinger Nicolas , Burdeau Julie , Makke Jade , Laissac Quentin , Dacher Jean-Nicolas , Eltchaninoff Helene , Durand Eric
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Conductive disturbances requiring permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation remain a major concern after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI).

Aims

To assess the impact of aortic valve calcium score (AVCS) on conductive disturbances requiring PPM after TAVI.

Methods

All patients who underwent TAVI with accessible AVCS from the preprocedural CT scan report were included in this retrospective single-centre study. The primary endpoint was the occurrence of a conductive disturbance requiring PPM at 30 days. The association between PPM and AVCS, with its incremental prognostic value, was analysed using multivariable logistic regression, receiver operating characteristic curve analysis and likelihood ratio (LR) test.

Results

We included 761 patients of which 125 (16%) required PPM at 30 days. AVCS score was significantly higher in patients requiring PPM (3788 (2487–5218) vs 3050 (2043–4367) AU, p<0.001). Using multivariable analysis, preprocedural right bundle branch block (RBBB) (OR 6.61, 95% CI 3.82 to 11.5, p<0.001), first atrioventricular block (OR 1.71, 95% CI 1.03 to 2.83, p=0.037), self-expanding valve (OR 3.25, 95% CI 1.17 to 9.09, p=0.025) and AVCS>4510 AU (OR 1.83, 95% CI 1.04 to 3.20, p=0.035) were independently associated with PPM. AVCS had an incremental discriminative value (C-index 0.79 vs 0.77, LR test p=0.036) over and above traditional PPM risk factors. An algorithm was proposed based on the initial presence of RBBB, AVCS and the type of implanted valve.

Conclusion

Even if RBBB remained the strongest predictor of PPM post-TAVI, this study suggests that a high AVCS may help identifying patients at increased risk of PPM after TAVI, especially among those without pre-existing RBBB.
End-to-end deep-learning model for the detection of coronary artery stenosis on coronary CT images
Authors: Gupta Vibha , Petursson Petur , Rawshani Aidin , Boren Jan , Ramunddal Truls , Bhatt Deepak L , Omerovic Elmir , Angerås Oskar , Smith Gustav , Sattar Naveed , Andersson Erik , Redfors Björn , Hilgendorf Lukas , Bergström Göran , Pirazzi Carlo , Skoglund Kristofer , Rawshani Araz
Published: January 2025

Purpose

We examined whether end-to-end deep-learning models could detect moderate (≥50%) or severe (≥70%) stenosis in the left anterior descending artery (LAD), right coronary artery (RCA) or left circumflex artery (LCX) in iodine contrast-enhanced ECG-gated coronary CT angiography (CCTA) scans.

Methods

From a database of 6293 CCTA scans, we used pre-existing curved multiplanar reformations (CMR) images of the LAD, RCA and LCX arteries to create end-to-end deep-learning models for the detection of moderate or severe stenoses. We preprocessed the images by exploiting domain knowledge and employed a transfer learning approach using EfficientNet, ResNet, DenseNet and Inception-ResNet, with a class-weighted strategy optimised through cross-validation. Heatmaps were generated to indicate critical areas identified by the models, aiding clinicians in understanding the model’s decision-making process.

Results

Among the 900 CMR cases, 279 involved the LAD artery, 259 the RCA artery and 253 the LCX artery. EfficientNet models outperformed others, with EfficientNetB3 and EfficientNetB0 demonstrating the highest accuracy for LAD, EfficientNetB2 for RCA and EfficientNetB0 for LCX. The area under the curve for receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) reached 0.95 for moderate and 0.94 for severe stenosis in the LAD. For the RCA, the AUROC was 0.92 for both moderate and severe stenosis detection. The LCX achieved an AUROC of 0.88 for the detection of moderate stenoses, though the calibration curve exhibited significant overestimation. Calibration curves matched probabilities for the LAD but showed discrepancies for the RCA. Heatmap visualisations confirmed the models’ precision in delineating stenotic lesions. Decision curve analysis and net reclassification index assessments reinforced the efficacy of EfficientNet models, confirming their superior diagnostic capabilities.

Conclusion

Our end-to-end deep-learning model demonstrates, for the LAD artery, excellent discriminatory ability and calibration during internal validation, despite a small dataset used to train the network. The model reliably produces precise, highly interpretable images.
Diabetes is associated with a higher incidence of short-term mortality risk and readmission in patients who undergo surgical but not transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: D Souza Ahston , Bsheish Khalifa , Dargham Soha , Jayyousi Amin , Al Suwaidi Jassim , Abi Khalil Charbel
Published: January 2025

Background

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is increasingly used for aortic valve replacement instead of surgical aortic valve replacement (sAVR). We aimed to examine the impact of diabetes on 30-day mortality, 30-day readmission and compare outcomes between TAVR and sAVR.

Methods

Data were extracted from the Nationwide Readmissions Database from 2012 to 2017. The primary outcome was 30-day mortality, and the secondary outcome was 30-day readmission.

Results

The study included 110 135 patients who underwent aortic valve replacement. Of these, 59 466 (54.0%) were hospitalised for TAVR, and 50 669 (46.0%) underwent sAVR. Diabetes was present in 36.4% of TAVR patients and 29.1% of sAVR patients. In TAVR patients, the adjusted risk of 30-day readmission and mortality was similar regardless of diabetes status (aHR=0.94 (0.86–1.03); 0.97 (0.84–1.12); respectively). However, sAVR patients with diabetes had a higher adjusted risk of 30-day mortality (aHR=1.13 (1.01–1.25)) but not readmission (aHR=0.92 (0.84–1.01)). When comparing outcomes between TAVR and sAVR in patients with diabetes, TAVR patients were older and had a higher prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Nevertheless, 30-day readmission and mortality were lower in patients who underwent TAVR (aHR=0.59 (0.53–0.67), aHR=0.29 (0.25–0.34), respectively) compared with sAVR. Coronary artery disease was the most significant predictor of readmission in patients with diabetes. CKD increased the risk of mortality by almost twofold in both techniques.

Conclusion

Diabetes increases the risk of short-term mortality in sAVR but not TAVR. Moreover, the incidence of 30-day mortality and readmission is lower in TAVR compared with TAVR among patients with diabetes.
Evaluation of three diagnostic algorithms to reduce normal scan rates, radiation exposure and costs in patients with suspected chronic coronary syndrome referred for 82Rb-Positron Emission Tomography (82Rb-PET)
Authors: Frey Simon M , Huré Gabrielle , Leibfarth Jan-Philipp , Thommen Kathrin , Amrein Melissa L , Schaefer Ibrahim , Rumora Klara , Schneider Igor G , Caobelli Federico , Wild Damian , Haaf Philip , Mahfoud Felix , Müller Christian , Zellweger Michael J
Published: January 2025

Background

The majority of functional ischemia tests in patients with suspected chronic coronary syndromes (CCS) yield normal results. Implementing gatekeepers for patient preselection, such as pretest probability (PTP) and/or coronary artery calcium score (CACS), could reduce the number of normal scan results, radiation exposure and costs. However, the efficacy and safety of these approaches remain unclear.

Methods

Three diagnostic algorithms based on PTP, as summarised in the 2019 European Society of Cardiology (ESC) CCS guidelines, were retrospectively applied to 1792 patients with suspected CCS referred for 82Rb-Positron Emission Tomography (82Rb-PET): (1) defer testing if PTP ≤5%; (2) defer if PTP <15%; and (3) defer if PTP ≤5% or PTP 5–15% and CACS 0. The proportion of missed ischemia, number of scans and reduction of normal scan results, radiation exposure and costs were compared with the current gold standard (CACS+PET in every patient). Endpoints were defined as small ischemia (SDS ≥2) and relevant ischemia (≥10% of myocardium).

Results

The mean age of the patients was 65±11 years, and 43% were female. PTP ≤5% and <15% were present in 7.5% and 41.0%, respectively. Algorithm 1 reduced scans, radiation and costs by 7.5% without significantly missing ischemia (sensitivity/negative predictive value (NPV) 98.6%/99.7%). Algorithm 2 showed the largest reduction (41.0%), but sensitivity was significantly reduced (80.2%). Algorithm 3 demonstrated optimal performance, reducing radiation by 17.0% and costs by 17.3% without significantly missing ischemia suggesting excellent safety (sensitivity/NPV 98.0%/99.5%).

Conclusion

Using a diagnostic algorithm combining PTP and CACS (algorithm 3), the number of normal scan results, radiation exposure and costs could be significantly reduced without a significant increase in missed diagnoses suggesting similar outcome and excellent patients safety. Consequently, this approach could help to optimally allocate limited healthcare resources while maintaining patient’s safety.
Diagnostic accuracy in coronary CT angiography analysis: artificial intelligence versus human assessment
Authors: Bernardo Rachel , Nurmohamed Nick S , Bom Michiel J , Jukema Ruurt , de Winter Ruben W , Sprengers Ralf , Stroes Erik S G , Min James K , Earls James , Danad Ibrahim , Choi Andrew D , Knaapen Paul
Published: January 2025

Background

Visual assessment of coronary CT angiography (CCTA) is time-consuming, influenced by reader experience and prone to interobserver variability. This study evaluated a novel algorithm for coronary stenosis quantification (atherosclerosis imaging quantitative CT, AI-QCT).

Methods

The study included 208 patients with suspected coronary artery disease (CAD) undergoing CCTA in Perfusion Imaging and CT Coronary Angiography With Invasive Coronary Angiography-1. AI-QCT and blinded readers assessed coronary artery stenosis following the Coronary Artery Disease Reporting and Data System consensus. Accuracy of AI-QCT was compared with a level 3 and two level 2 clinical readers against an invasive quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) reference standard (≥50% stenosis) in an area under the curve (AUC) analysis, evaluated per-patient and per-vessel and stratified by plaque volume.

Results

Among 208 patients with a mean age of 58±9 years and 37% women, AI-QCT demonstrated superior concordance with QCA compared with clinical CCTA assessments. For the detection of obstructive stenosis (≥50%), AI-QCT achieved an AUC of 0.91 on a per-patient level, outperforming level 3 (AUC 0.77; p<0.002) and level 2 readers (AUC 0.79; p<0.001 and AUC 0.76; p<0.001). The advantage of AI-QCT was most prominent in those with above median plaque volume. At the per-vessel level, AI-QCT achieved an AUC of 0.86, similar to level 3 (AUC 0.82; p=0.098) stenosis, but superior to level 2 readers (both AUC 0.69; p<0.001).

Conclusions

AI-QCT demonstrated superior agreement with invasive QCA compared to clinical CCTA assessments, particularly compared to level 2 readers in those with extensive CAD. Integrating AI-QCT into routine clinical practice holds promise for improving the accuracy of stenosis quantification through CCTA.
Automated electronic health record-based screening for Fabry disease in unexplained left ventricular hypertrophy (FAPREV-HCM)
Authors: Lau Kolja , Sokalski Victoria , Lorenz Lora , Fette Georg , Sommer Claudia , Üçeyler Nurcan , Wanner Christoph , Nordbeck Peter
Published: January 2025

Background and aims

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) has various aetiologies, including genetic conditions like Fabry disease (FD), a lysosomal storage disorder. FD prevalence in high-risk HCM populations ranges from 0.3% to 11.8%. Early diagnosis of FD is crucial due to available treatments, but its rarity and diverse symptoms complicate identification. Heart-specific FD variants often lead to late diagnoses due to the absence of typical FD symptoms. This prospective study (NCT04943991) was conducted to identify patients with undiagnosed FD using electronic health records (EHR) at a German tertiary-care hospital.

Methods

Over 20 years (2000–2020), 2824 patients with ‘left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH)’ or ‘hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)’ were identified by full-text search. Exclusion criteria were age over 85, other diagnosed cardiomyopathies, significant valvular heart disease, death, active malignancy and prior FD testing. The remaining patients received an invitation for FD genetic testing.

Results

Of the 2824 identified patients, 2626 (93%) fulfilled the exclusion criteria. Among the 198 included patients, 96 responded, and 55 underwent genetic testing, yielding a response rate of 48% and a testing rate of 28%. In one patient (1.8% of tested), FD was diagnosed with thep.N215Svariant. Subsequent family screening revealed six additional FD cases, with four initiating FD-specific therapies. Comprehensive clinical evaluations were conducted in five of the seven identified patients.

Conclusions

Genetic testing of patients with unexplained LVH/HCM using EHR is effective for identifying FD. Subsequent family screening further identified at-risk individuals, promoting regular follow-ups and if needed FD-specific therapies. This approach highlights the potential for broader application in high-risk populations to uncover treatable genetic conditions. The next phase should focus on automating the executed search process.

Trial registration number

NCT04943991.
SAFE-GOALS: a protocol for goals of care discussions in the intensive care unit
Authors: Velez David Ray , Irons Thomas Dresser , Opimo Anthony Brando , Brown Emily , Foley Doug , Velez Jamie Lynn , McNickle Allison G
Published: January 2025

Introduction

In critical care, there is often a lack of understanding regarding patient preferences toward end-of-life care. Goals of care discussions are poorly defined and inhibited by clinician apprehension, prognostic uncertainty, and discomfort from both sides. In the delivery of bad news, protocol-based discussions have proven beneficial, yet no such protocol exists for goals of care discussions in the intensive care unit (ICU). We therefore assembled a multidisciplinary team to define a specific protocol dedicated to leading goals of care discussions in the ICU setting.

SAFE-GOALS protocol

S: set up

A: acknowledgment

F: family understanding

E: events of hospital course

G: get to know the patient

O: options

AL: active listening and discussion

S: steps going forward

Conclusion

This protocol provides a framework for leading goals of care conversations in the ICU. Specific training should be incorporated and better emphasized in the modern medical education.
COTR: Efficient Job Task Recognition for Occupational Information Systems with Class-Incremental Learning
Authors: Qin Chuan , Fang Chuyu , Yao Kaichun , Chen Xi , Zhuang Fuzhen , Zhu Hengshu
Published: January 2025

Occupation-specific job tasks (OSTs) refer to the duties, responsibilities, and activities associated with a particular occupation, which define the core functions and performance expectations for those engaged in that profession. Efficient recognition and extraction of OSTs from large-scale job description data are essential for establishing a continually updated occupational information system (OIS), such as O*NET, which serves as critical tools for advancing research in work and labor markets. However, this task presents substantial challenges due to its heavy reliance on domain experts for the labor-intensive annotation of job postings, rendering the process time-consuming and difficult to scale for large-scale implementation. To this end, in this paper, we present
COTR
, a novel data-driven framework designed for the efficient recognition of OSTs from job postings, capable of continually identifying new tasks through class-incremental learning. Specifically, we first employ large language models (LLMs) and prompt learning to develop a three-phase process—“expansion, translation, and generation”—that addresses the critical challenge of the absence of predefined OSTs in non-English labor market data, leveraging O*NET as a foundational reference. Subsequently, we introduce a BERT-based model for OST recognition, incorporating a uniquely designed pair-wise loss function that distills valuable insights from ChatGPT or other LLMs, thereby substantially enhancing recognition performance. In addition, to achieve cost-effective training data annotation, we develop an LLM-based coarse-to-fine candidate OSTs generation algorithm, integrating contrastive active learning to optimize the annotation process through human-machine collaboration. Notably, we design a supervised fine-tuning strategy with a novel encoding technique to optimize LLMs, improving the recall rate of the generated candidate OSTs and achieving up to a 343-fold increase in annotation efficiency compared to traditional manual expert annotation in our experiments. Afterward, we propose an efficient class-incremental learning method that incorporates an out-of-distribution (OOD) detection module for identifying potential novel OSTs and a fine-tuning module to extend the model’s recognition capabilities to include newly discovered tasks. Finally, we construct two real-world datasets using job posting data collected from the labor markets of China and the United States, respectively. Extensive experiments on the real-world datasets, along with two publicly available datasets, have demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed COTR. Furthermore, several case studies showcase the significant benefits of COTR for various downstream applications in labor market analysis, including analyzing the evolving demand for OSTs, assessing the value of OSTs, and recognizing the relationships between OSTs and associated skills.
Hormonal Implications of SARS‐CoV‐2: A Review of Endocrine Disruptions
Authors: Yskak Aliya , Sokharev Yevgeniy , Zhumalynov Kuanysh , Koneva Elizaveta , Afanasyeva Natalia , Borodulin Dmitri , Babaskin Dmitrii , Nugmanov Almabek , Nurushev Murat , Chashkov Vadim
Published: January 2025

To improve medical care and rehabilitation algorithms for patients affected by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), it is important to evaluate and summarize the available data on the effect of coronavirus infection (COVID‐19) on the endocrine system. The purpose of this review was to study the effect of COVID‐19 on the endocrine system. The scientific novelty of this study is the evaluation of the effect of coronavirus infection on the endocrine system and the potential effect of hormones on susceptibility to COVID‐19. The results of this review show that the endocrine system is vulnerable to disorders caused by COVID‐19, mainly thyroid dysfunction and hyperglycemia. The information in the published literature mentioned here contains some unclear aspects and contradictory data, but much remains to be studied and clarified regarding the impact of COVID‐19 on the endocrine system. In particular, this concerns the study of the hyperglycemic status of patients who have had coronavirus infection, which is extremely important for the future metabolic health of COVID‐19 survivors. This review contributes to the scientific discourse by systematically synthesizing disparate studies to identify patterns, gaps, and emerging trends in the literature concerning the effects of COVID‐19 on the endocrine system. By integrating these findings, this study offers a novel perspective on potential hormonal interactions influencing COVID‐19 susceptibility and outcomes, proposing new hypotheses and frameworks for future research.
Socioeconomic and Environmental Impacts of Eucalyptus Plantations in Ethiopia: An Evaluation of Benefits, Challenges, and Sustainable Practices
Authors: Belachew Kiros Getachew , Minale Wondwosson Kibrie
Published: January 2025

Eucalyptus was first introduced to Ethiopia in the late 19th century to address the scarcity of firewood and construction wood in the capital city. Since then, it has spread across the country and has become an important source of income for many households while also reducing the need for deforestation. Despite concerns raised by environmentalists about its eco‐hydrological impact, the plantation has expanded to cover a vast area of the nation, including farmlands and mountainous regions. Currently, around 506,000 hectares of land in Ethiopia are covered by Eucalyptus plantations. The growth of Eucalyptus plantations can be attributed to various socioeconomic, ecological, and biological factors, including the increasing demand for wood and wood products. However, this growth has also led to negative environmental consequences such as reduced surface and groundwater flow, decreased crop productivity, soil fertility degradation and depletion, and high water consumption, which can result in water scarcity. To address these environmental impacts, it is essential to select appropriate species and sites and implement proper silvicultural and land use planning before planting. Additionally, promoting renewable energy sources and planting environmentally sound fast‐growing indigenous and exotic tree species can help reduce the adverse effects of Eucalyptus on the environment.
Πίστις—‮פסטס‬‎
Authors: Monnickendam Yifat
Published: January 2025

The term pistis, in its legal context, refers to various forms of trusts, loans, securities, credits, guarantees, and means of inheritance. One of its uses in Greek Egyptian papyri was interpreted as referring to title-transfer security or to fictitious ownership. This paper adds rabbinic sources from Greco-Roman Palestine to the discussion on pistis. The comparison sheds light on the rabbinic sources, as well as expands our understanding of the use and spread of a Greek legal term and concept in the eastern Roman Empire. It therefore serves as a test case for the importance of rabbinic literature as a source in the study of Greek and Roman legal traditions, supplying new evidence for using this term as referring to fictitious ownership and for its use as referring to title-transfer security. This use of the term pistis changes in the Babylonian Talmud, preserving only echoes of its original meaning.
Morphology and phylogeny of Pseudocercospora trifoliorum sp. nov. (Mycosphaerellaceae) on Grona triflora from India
Authors: RAJWAR SOUMYADEEP , SINGH RAGHVENDRA , KUMAR SHAMBHU , SINGH PARAS NATH , SINGH ALOK KUMAR
Published: January 2025

Pseudocercospora trifoliorum, a newly discovered foliicolous hyphomycetous fungus on Grona triflora (Fabaceae), is taxonomically described and illustrated. Its phylogeny was determined using LSU, RPB2, and ITS regions to analyze evolutionary relationships. The taxon is compared to closely related Pseudocercospora species through morphological traits and molecular analysis, improving insights into its classification and evolutionary relationships.
Molecular investigation of Nupela mongolica sp. nov. (Bacillariophyceae) with the description of the family Nupelaceae fam. nov.
Authors: TSEPLIK NATALIA , GLUSHCHENKO ANTON , MALTSEV YEVHEN , GENKAL SERGEY , NERGUI SONINKHISHIG , KULIKOVSKIY MAXIM
Published: January 2025

A new species of the genus Nupela, N. mongolica sp. nov., is described from Davaa Lake, Mongolia. The new species has been studied in LM, SEM and TEM, illustrating the unique structure of the areolae that is characteristic for this genus. According to the molecular analysis, N. mongolica sp. nov. forms an independent branch within the clade that includes other species of Nupela. The genus Nupela was originally placed in the suborder Neidiineae with an unclear position within the suborder due to its unique morphology; later it was included in the family Brachysiraceae despite the differences between Nupela and Brachysira. Molecular data show that strains of Nupela form a separate clade that is not closely related to other genera. Based on the distinct morphological structure of areolae in Nupela that is not present in any other pennate diatoms and the separate position of Nupela species on the phylogenetic tree, a new family Nupelaceae fam. nov. is suggested to accommodate this genus.
Fungal canker disease on Populus spp. in China caused by three species of Nothophoma including N. populi sp. nov.
Authors: GUO LIN-NA , WANG JIA-WEN , ZHAO LI-LI , ZHANG LIN , ZHANG YING
Published: January 2025

Diseases affecting branches and trunks of poplar trees (Populus spp.) cause severe damage in poplar cultivation areas within China. In this study, thirty-three poplar trunks and branches exhibiting canker symptoms were collected from Beijing and Ningxia provinces, China. Forty-three isolates of Nothophoma were obtained. Phylogenetic analysis, based on combined ITS, RPB2, and TUB2 DNA sequence data along with fungal morphological characteristics, identified three species of Nothophoma, namely N. populi, N. platycladus and N. juglandis. Of these, N. populi is a new species that is fully described. Koch's postulates confirmed that all three species of Nothophoma can cause canker disease in poplar. This study is the first report of poplar diseases caused by species of Nothophoma.
Xylolentia bambusae (Rhamphoriaceae, Rhamphoriales), a novel species associated with dead bamboo in Guangdong Province, China
Authors: ZHAO HAIJUN , MAPOOK AUSANA , HYDE KEVIN D. , DOILOM MINGKWAN , AL-OTIBI FATIMAH O. , SAICHANA NATSARAN , DONG WEI
Published: January 2025

Species within Rhamphoriaceae are distributed in both terrestrial and aquatic habitats worldwide, yet the investigation into their distribution and diversity in South China remains insufficient. Through a comprehensive morphological assessment and phylogenetic analysis utilizing a combined dataset of ITS, LSU, SSU, tef1-α, and rpb2 sequences, we have isolated and identified a novel species, Xylolentia bambusae, in Rhamphoriaceae from decaying bamboo culms in Guangdong Province, China. This study provides detailed description and illustration of the novel species, along with an updated backbone tree of Rhamphoriaceae to enhance our understanding of the genera/species relationships within the family.
Lectotypification of Coelogyne zhenkangensis and its conspecificity with Coelogyne lancilabia (Arethuseae, Epidendroideae, Orchidaceae)
Authors: SHU NAN , LI RONG
Published: January 2025

The holotype of Coelogyne zhenkangensis, preserved at the Herbarium of the Institute of Botany (PE [barcode 00271824]), is an admixture. To align with the original diagnosis, we designate the flowers in the bag, the solitary inflorescence, and the illustrations on the holotype sheet as the lectotype. Coelogyne zhenkangensis is conspecific with Coelogyne lancilabia. Consequently, we place Coelogyne lancilabia under the synonym of Coelogyne zhenkangensis.
Saussurea qilangii (Asteraceae, Cardueae), a new species from Hubei, China
Authors: CHEN YOU-SHENG , GAN QI-LIANG , XU LIAN-SHENG
Published: January 2025

Saussurea qilangii (Asteraceae), a new species from Bashan mountain, Central China, is described and illustrated. The new species is similar to S. oligantha in its habit, phyllaries shape and indumentum, but differs by its lower leaves cordate (vs. broadly ovate-cordate), capitulum (15–)30–80 (vs. 2–8), involucre 4–4.5 cm in diameter (vs. 0.8–1.2 cm in diameter), and phyllaries apex obtuse and patent (cv. acuminate, reflexed to erect). The new species is also similar to S. stricta in its habit, phyllaries shape and indumentum, but differs in lower leaves cordate (vs. ovate-triangular), capitulum (15–)30–80 (vs. 8–20), involucre 4–4.5 cm in diameter (vs. 1.2–1.5 cm in diameter), and phyllaries apex obtuse and patent (cv. rounded and very shortly acuminate, patent to recurved).
Molecular insights into species delimitations of Cryptocarya, Endiandra, and Beilschmiedia (Lauraceae) in New Caledonia and neighbouring islands
Authors: MUNZINGER JÉRÔME , GEMMILL CHRISSEN E. C.
Published: January 2025

In order to gain a better understanding of the delimitation and history of species of Lauraceae present in New Caledonia, several of which are thought to be new, a phylogenetic analysis based on the ITS nuclear sequences of Cryptocaryeae was undertaken with 147 new samples from the region. This study reveals monophyly for most of the currently recognised New Caledonian species in Cryptocarya and Endiandra, and for seven recently published new species (C. adpressa, C. barrabeae, C. chrysea, C. conduplicata, C. ovoidea, E. humboldtiana, and E. trichogyna). As well, several presumed new species in these two genera, based on morphological features, were found to be monophyletic and will require formal description. The monophyly of Cryptocarya is again confirmed, and that of Endiandra appears probable. In Beilschmiedia, four genetically distinct New Caledonian clades were observed, but they do not correspond to the two described species (B. oreophila and B. neocaledonica) nor to one easily recognised morphospecies. The relationships among the genera Beilschmiedia, Endiandra, Syndiclis, Sinopora, Potameia and Yasunia remain unresolved. Beilschmiedia from New Caledonia represents a distinct clade. Finally, this study reveals a dynamic history with multiple colonisation events onto the archipelago.
New and interesting saxicolous species of Buellia De Not. (Caliciaceae, lichenized ascomycota) from India
Authors: NGANGOM ROSHINIKUMAR , NAYAKA SANJEEVA , MOHABE SATISH , REDDY A. MADHUSUDHANA
Published: January 2025

Three new saxicolous species of the lichen genus Buellia De Not. from India are described here, namely Buellia austroindica, B. subhemispherica and B. vizagensis. All the three species are characterized by an amyloid medulla and contain xanthones, connorstictic, and norstictic acid. The species B. austroindica is distinguished by its brownish yellow, rimose-areolate, UV+ pale white thallus, and orange pruina on the apothecial disc. Buellia subhemispherica is characterized by a pale grey to ivory white, rimose-areolate, UV+ orange thallus and an exciple that is aeruginose-pigmented with a paler middle layer. Buellia vizagensis is characterized by a warm white to white-grey, rimose areolate, UV+ orange thallus and yellowish brown pruina on the apothecial disc. Buellia cinnabarina and B. spuria are reported for the first time from India. Detailed descriptions, figures and distribution maps of all the species are provided.
First revision of the apodid holothurian genus Patinapta Heding, 1928 (Synaptidae) in Japanese waters, with establishment of four new species from Kyushu Island and Ryukyu Islands, southwestern Japan
Authors: YAMANA YUSUKE , HIRASHIMA KENTAROU , SATO MASANORI , YAMAMORI LUNA
Published: January 2025

Four new species of the genus Patinapta Heding, 1928 are erected from the Kyushu Island and Ryukyu Islands in southwestern Japan, based on specimens from the Wakayama Prefectural Museum of Natural History (WMNH). The ossicles as well as the internal and external morphological features of these species showed clear differences, contrary to our original expectations. In particular, the morphology of the calcareous rings, previously considered of little use for diagnosis, is suggested in our study to be a useful feature for future phylogenetic studies. We describe here two species, P. deformis sp. nov. and P. parvaspiculus sp. nov. from Yoron-jima Island, Kagoshima; P. neglectus sp. nov. from Kagoshima Bay, Kagoshima; and one species, P. edentatus sp. nov., from Ishigaki-jima Island, Okinawa. Together with the two previously reported species P. ooplax (von Marenzeller, 1882) and P. taiwaniensis Chao, Rowe & Chang, 1988, there are now six Japanese taxa of Patinapta. In the present study, the six species occurring in Japanese waters are distinguished and presented on the basis of morphology-based sorting keys to enable correct species identification in the future.
New species and new records of Cosmolaelaps Berlese (Acari: Laelapidae) from the Republic of Korea, with a review of the Korean species of the genus
Authors: OH JAESEOK , JOHARCHI OMID , LEE SEUNGHWAN , JUNG CHULEUI
Published: January 2025

This paper reports on six species of the genus Cosmolaelaps (Laelapidae) in the Republic of Korea: Cosmolaelaps brevipedestra (Karg) and C. robustochaetes Ma & Lin collected from soil-litter, and Cosmolaelaps cavosternalis sp. nov., C. hallasanensis sp. nov., C. oedipus sp. nov., C. sansungensis sp. nov. collected in association with ants or their nests. The new species are described and illustrated based on morphological characteristics of the adults and immature stages and compared with closely related species. We provide additional morphological information and new illustrations for two other species to facilitate species delimitation. An identification key to all known Korean Cosmolaelaps species is presented, and ambiguities on the identification of C. koreicus Che & Seo are discussed.
Taxonomic contributions to Mycetomoellerius Solomon et al., 2019 (Hymenoptera: Formicidae: Myrmicinae): description of two new species and a key for the genus
Authors: SANTOS CARLOS DANIEL ASSIS DOS , CHAUL JÚLIO CEZAR MÁRIO , SERRÃO JOSÉ EDUARDO
Published: January 2025

Fungus-farming ants (Myrmicinae: Attini: Attina) form mutualistic associations with Agaricales fungi. The group is divided in lower and higher attine ants. Genera Trachymyrmex, Mycetomoellerius, and Paratrachymyrmex are part of higher attine ants, the latter two recently erected and composed of species that were all formerly within Trachymyrmex. Morphological characters to distinguish the three genera are scarce. This study describes two new species of Mycetomoellerius, provides a multi-entry key for the species of Mycetomoellerius, and complements the genus-level diagnosis of Mycetomoellerius, Paratrachymyrmex, and Trachymyrmex. The two new species, Mycetomoellerius janildae sp. nov. and Mycetomoellerius mesopleuralis sp. nov., increase to 32 the total number of extant species of the genus. Male genitalia traits were relevant in the delimitation of the new species. Our taxonomic results represent a step towards the understanding of Mycetomoellerius diversity, one of the most speciose genera among the fungus-farming ants.
Two new species of Boaedon from Ethiopia and Somalia, with a review of the species of East Africa
Authors: HALLERMANN JAKOB , HAWLITSCHEK OLIVER
Published: January 2025

We conducted a molecular study based on 112 mitochondrial 16S rRNA sequences, which revealed 20 monophyletic species-level groups in Africa, five of these in East and Northeast Africa. Based on genetic data, we describe two new species, B. broadleyi sp. nov. from Ethiopia and B. subniger sp. nov. from Somalia, and we elevate B. fuliginosus arabicus to full species level. We detected further morphologically divergent specimens that may represent a distinct taxon but refrain from a formal description due to insufficient data. The morphological variation of the recently described B. montanus from Central Africa is shown and discussed over its whole distribution area. Moreover, we provide a new country record for Sudan and South Sudan, namely of B. paralineatus. Finally, we provide an updated distribution map for all Boaedon species occurring in Northeast and East Africa.
A review of Paracricotopus (Brundin, 1947), with the description of two new species and redescription of the adult males of Paracricotopus niger (Kieffer, 1913) and Paracricotopus uliginosus (Brundin, 1947) sensu Sæther (1980) (Chironomidae: Diptera)
Authors: NAMAYANDEH ARMIN , GHADERI EDRIS
Published: January 2025

In this study, we present a review of Paracricotopus species with emphasis on the characteristics of the adult male and provide other previously unknown and/or unexamined characteristics, particularly those of tergite setation. We also described two new species, Paracricotopus sturae sp. nov. and Paracricotopus torbjorni sp. nov., from Norway, redescribed P. niger and P. uliginosus, provided an updated key to the adult males and a preliminary alternative key based on adult males tergite setation.