bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supplementary Table S1 from Spatial Distribution of Immune Cells Drives Resistance to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Donati Benedetta , Reggiani Francesca , Torricelli Federica , Santandrea Giacomo , Rossi Teresa , Bisagni Alessandra , Gasparini Elisa , Neri Antonino , Cortesi Laura , Ferrari Guglielmo , Bisagni Giancarlo , Ragazzi Moira , Ciarrocchi Alessia
Published: January 2024

AOI selection in training and validation cohorts.
Supplementary Figure 5 from Spatial Distribution of Immune Cells Drives Resistance to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Donati Benedetta , Reggiani Francesca , Torricelli Federica , Santandrea Giacomo , Rossi Teresa , Bisagni Alessandra , Gasparini Elisa , Neri Antonino , Cortesi Laura , Ferrari Guglielmo , Bisagni Giancarlo , Ragazzi Moira , Ciarrocchi Alessia
Published: January 2024

Supplementary Figure 5. Gene expression and RCB score
Supplementary Figure 4 from Spatial Distribution of Immune Cells Drives Resistance to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Donati Benedetta , Reggiani Francesca , Torricelli Federica , Santandrea Giacomo , Rossi Teresa , Bisagni Alessandra , Gasparini Elisa , Neri Antonino , Cortesi Laura , Ferrari Guglielmo , Bisagni Giancarlo , Ragazzi Moira , Ciarrocchi Alessia
Published: January 2024

Supplementary Figure 4. Relevant differences between pCR and pNR samples in particular regarding immune activation
Supplementary Figure S3 from Combination of Anti–PD-1 and Electroacupuncture Induces a Potent Antitumor Immune Response in Microsatellite-Stable Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Wang Yuan , Liu Fengyi , Du Xiaoxue , Shi Jiaqi , Yu Rui , Li Shuang , Na Ruisi , Zhao Ying , Zhou Meng , Guo Ying , Cheng Liang , Wang Guangyu , Zheng Tongsen
Published: January 2024

Supplementary Figure S3 and legend
Figure S4 from Bexmarilimab Activates Human Tumor-Associated Macrophages to Support Adaptive Immune Responses in Interferon-Poor Immune Microenvironments
Authors: Rannikko Jenna H. , Bono Petri , Hynninen Johanna , Hollmén Maija
Published: January 2024

Characterization of the cells in the scRNA-sequenced ovarian ascites MoMac cluster, related to Fig. 1E.
Data from Notch Signaling Regulates Immunosuppressive Tumor-Associated Macrophage Function in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Yan Wei , Menjivar Rosa E. , Bonilla Monica E. , Steele Nina G. , Kemp Samantha B. , Du Wenting , Donahue Katelyn L. , Brown Kristee L. , Carpenter Eileen S. , Avritt Faith R. , Irizarry-Negron Valerie M. , Yang Sion , Burns William R. , Zhang Yaqing , Pasca di Magliano Marina , Bednar Filip
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) continues to have a dismal prognosis. The poor survival of patients with PDA has been attributed to a high rate of early metastasis and low efficacy of current therapies, which partly result from its complex immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Previous studies from our group and others have shown that tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) are instrumental in maintaining immunosuppression in PDA. Here, we explored the role of Notch signaling, a key regulator of immune response, within the PDA microenvironment. We identified Notch pathway components in multiple immune cell types within human and mouse pancreatic cancer. TAMs, the most abundant immune cell population in the tumor microenvironment, expressed high levels of Notch receptors, with cognate ligands such as JAG1 expressed on tumor epithelial cells, endothelial cells, and fibroblasts. TAMs with activated Notch signaling expressed higher levels of immunosuppressive mediators, suggesting that Notch signaling plays a role in macrophage polarization within the PDA microenvironment. Genetic inhibition of Notch in myeloid cells led to reduced tumor size and decreased macrophage infiltration in an orthotopic PDA model. Combination of pharmacologic Notch inhibition with PD-1 blockade resulted in increased cytotoxic T-cell infiltration, tumor cell apoptosis, and smaller tumor size. Our work implicates macrophage Notch signaling in the establishment of immunosuppression and indicates that targeting the Notch pathway may improve the efficacy of immune-based therapies in patients with PDA.
Data from Tyrosine Kinase Inhibition Activates Intratumoral γδ T Cells in Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor
Authors: Etherington Mark S. , Hanna Andrew N. , Medina Benjamin D. , Liu Mengyuan , Tieniber Andrew D. , Kwak Hyunjee V. , Tardy Katherine J. , Levin Lillian , Do Kevin J. , Rossi Ferdinando , Zeng Shan , DeMatteo Ronald P.
Published: January 2024

Abstract
γδ T cells are a rare but potent subset of T cells with pleiotropic functions. They commonly reside within tumors but the response of γδ T cells to tyrosine kinase inhibition is unknown. To address this, we studied a genetically engineered mouse model of gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) driven by oncogenic Kit signaling that responds to the Kit inhibitor imatinib. At baseline, γδ T cells were antitumoral, as blockade of either γδ T-cell receptor or IL17A increased tumor weight and decreased antitumor immunity. However, imatinib therapy further stimulated intratumoral γδ T cells, as determined by flow cytometry and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq). Imatinib expanded a highly activated γδ T-cell subset with increased IL17A production and higher expression of immune checkpoints and cytolytic effector molecules. Consistent with the mouse model, γδ T cells produced IL17A in fresh human GIST specimens, and imatinib treatment increased γδ T-cell gene signatures, as measured by bulk tumor RNA-seq. Furthermore, tumor γδ T cells correlated with survival in patients with GIST. Our findings highlight the interplay between tumor cell oncogene signaling and antitumor immune responses and identify γδ T cells as targets for immunotherapy in GIST.
Data from Spatial Distribution of Immune Cells Drives Resistance to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Donati Benedetta , Reggiani Francesca , Torricelli Federica , Santandrea Giacomo , Rossi Teresa , Bisagni Alessandra , Gasparini Elisa , Neri Antonino , Cortesi Laura , Ferrari Guglielmo , Bisagni Giancarlo , Ragazzi Moira , Ciarrocchi Alessia
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) alone or combined with target therapies represents the standard of care for localized triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). However, only a fraction of patients have a response, necessitating better understanding of the complex elements in the TNBC ecosystem that establish continuous and multidimensional interactions. Resolving such complexity requires new spatially-defined approaches. Here, we used spatial transcriptomics to investigate the multidimensional organization of TNBC at diagnosis and explore the contribution of each cell component to response to NAC. Starting from a consecutive retrospective series of TNBC cases, we designed a case–control study including 24 patients with TNBC of which 12 experienced a pathologic complete response (pCR) and 12 no-response or progression (pNR) after NAC. Over 200 regions of interest (ROI) were profiled. Our computational approaches described a model that recapitulates clinical response to therapy. The data were validated in an independent cohort of patients. Differences in the transcriptional program were detected in the tumor, stroma, and immune infiltrate comparing patients with a pCR with those with pNR. In pCR, spatial contamination between the tumor mass and the infiltrating lymphocytes was observed, sustained by a massive activation of IFN-signaling. Conversely, pNR lesions displayed increased pro-angiogenetic signaling and oxygen-based metabolism. Only modest differences were observed in the stroma, revealing a topology-based functional heterogeneity of the immune infiltrate. Thus, spatial transcriptomics provides fundamental information on the multidimensionality of TNBC and allows an effective prediction of tumor behavior. These results open new perspectives for the improvement and personalization of therapeutic approaches to TNBCs.
Data from Combination of Anti–PD-1 and Electroacupuncture Induces a Potent Antitumor Immune Response in Microsatellite-Stable Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Wang Yuan , Liu Fengyi , Du Xiaoxue , Shi Jiaqi , Yu Rui , Li Shuang , Na Ruisi , Zhao Ying , Zhou Meng , Guo Ying , Cheng Liang , Wang Guangyu , Zheng Tongsen
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) inhibitors are ineffective against microsatellite-stable (MSS) colorectal cancer. Electroacupuncture (EA) has oncosuppressive and immunomodulatory properties. Here, we investigated the antitumor effects of EA and explored the feasibility of EA combined with anti–PD-1 in MSS colorectal cancer. Results showed that EA exerted its antitumor effect in an intensity-specific manner, and moderate-intensity EA (1.0 mA) induced maximal tumor inhibition. EA enhanced antitumor immune responses by increasing lymphocytes and granzyme B (GzmB) levels, as well as activating the stimulator of IFN genes (STING) pathway. EA combined with anti–PD-1 showed superior efficacy compared with either monotherapy in multiple MSS colorectal cancer mouse models. Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed that cotreatment reprogrammed the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), as characterized by enhancement of cytotoxic functions. Mechanically, we found that the potentiated effect of EA was dependent upon the STING pathway. Collectively, EA reshapes the TIME of MSS colorectal cancer and sensitizes tumors to anti–PD-1 in a STING pathway–dependent manner. These results provide a mechanistic rationale for using EA as an immunomodulatory strategy to improve the clinical efficacy of anti–PD-1 in MSS colorectal cancer. EA is safe, well-tolerated, and feasible for clinical translation as a promising strategy for treating MSS colorectal cancer.
Data from Intracellular K+ Limits T-cell Exhaustion and Preserves Antitumor Function
Authors: Collier Camille , Wucherer Kelly , McWhorter Matthew , Jenkins Chelsea , Bartlett Alexandra , Roychoudhuri Rahul , Eil Robert
Published: January 2024

Abstract
T cells are often compromised within cancers, allowing disease progression. We previously found that intratumoral elevations in extracellular K+, related to ongoing cell death, constrained CD8+ T-cell Akt–mTOR signaling and effector function. To alleviate K+-mediated T-cell dysfunction, we pursued genetic means to lower intracellular K+. CD8+ T cells robustly and dynamically express the Na+/K+ ATPase, among other K+ transporters. CRISPR-Cas9–mediated disruption of the Atp1a1 locus lowered intracellular K+ and elevated the resting membrane potential (i.e., Vm, Ψ). Despite compromised Ca2+ influx, Atp1a1-deficient T cells harbored tonic hyperactivity in multiple signal transduction cascades, along with a phenotype of exhaustion in mouse and human CD8+ T cells. Provision of exogenous K+ restored intracellular levels in Atp1a1-deficient T cells and prevented damaging levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and both antioxidant treatment and exogenous K+ prevented Atp1a1-deficient T-cell exhaustion in vitro. T cells lacking Atp1a1 had compromised persistence and antitumor activity in a syngeneic model of orthotopic murine melanoma. Translational application of these findings will require balancing the beneficial aspects of intracellular K+ with the ROS-dependent nature of T-cell effector function.

See related Spotlight by Banuelos and Borges da Silva, p. 6
Figure S5 from Inhibition of PRL2 Upregulates PTEN and Attenuates Tumor Growth in Tp53-deficient Sarcoma and Lymphoma Mouse Models
Authors: Nguele Meke Frederick , Bai Yunpeng , Ruiz-Avila Diego , Carlock Colin , Ayub Jinan , Miao Jinmin , Hu Yanyang , Li Qinglin , Zhang Zhong-Yin
Published: January 2024

Prl2 deletion does not affect Erk activation in inducible Tp53-/- mice derived thymic lymphomas
Figure S3 from Inhibition of PRL2 Upregulates PTEN and Attenuates Tumor Growth in Tp53-deficient Sarcoma and Lymphoma Mouse Models
Authors: Nguele Meke Frederick , Bai Yunpeng , Ruiz-Avila Diego , Carlock Colin , Ayub Jinan , Miao Jinmin , Hu Yanyang , Li Qinglin , Zhang Zhong-Yin
Published: January 2024

Prl2 deletion inhibits tumor cell proliferations
Produção textual e argumentação: desafios e perspectivas para a formação docente na contemporaneidade
Authors: Lima Nelci Vieira de , Cabral Ana Lúcia Tinoco , Albert Silvia Augusta de Barros
Published: January 2024

Este artigo reflete sobre desafios e perspectivas concernentes à formação docente em Língua Portuguesa, no contexto da contemporaneidade. Discute, especificamente, sobre a importância do ensino e aprendizagem da produção textual, com foco na argumentação. Para tanto, analisa dois memes digitais sobre a temática ‘escola’, tendo em vista a força argumentativa e semioses que os envolvem. Os preceitos teóricos encontram-se em Danblon (2005), Angenot (2008) e Toulmin ([1958] 2001). Apoiam também as análises as perspectivas da BNCC (2018) acerca da produção textual, das TDIC e da argumentação; e para tratar das multissemioses toma-se Rojo (2016). Conclui-se que embora as novas gerações, tanto de estudantes, quanto de professores, nascidos no contexto tecnológico, já dominem ferramentas tecnológicas e, consequentemente, práticas de linguagem multissemióticas, urge proporcionar-lhes uma formação crítica e reflexiva, que permita-lhes tomar posicionamentos e defender pontos de vista que visem ao bem comum de toda a sociedade, local e global.
Fungi Fabrics and Living Colors: Toward Ecocentric Biodesign?
Authors: Toussaint Lianne , Bruggeman Daniëlle , van den Eijnde Jeroen
Published: January 2024

This article argues for a shift toward more ecocentric, rather anthropocentric, biodesign processes for clothing and textile design. It discusses mainstream understandings of biomimicry and biodesign, rethinking these approaches in a more-than-human and ecocentric direction. The article analyzes the cases of mycelium-based garments and bacterial textile dyes to, on the one hand, show how current biodesigners are already successfully working with natural resources by growing, collaborating with, regenerating, and restoring nature. On the other hand, these two cases are used to show the potential for biodesign practices to move even further beyond a human-centered understanding of designing with nature.
Human Visual Cortex and Deep Convolutional Neural Network Care Deeply about Object Background
Authors: Loke Jessica , Seijdel Noor , Snoek Lukas , Sörensen Lynn K. A. , van de Klundert Ron , van der Meer Matthew , Quispel Eva , Cappaert Natalie , Scholte H. Steven
Published: January 2024

Deep convolutional neural networks (DCNNs) are able to partially predict brain activity during object categorization tasks, but factors contributing to this predictive power are not fully understood. Our study aimed to investigate the factors contributing to the predictive power of DCNNs in object categorization tasks. We compared the activity of four DCNN architectures with EEG recordings obtained from 62 human participants during an object categorization task. Previous physiological studies on object categorization have highlighted the importance of figure-ground segregation—the ability to distinguish objects from their backgrounds. Therefore, we investigated whether figure-ground segregation could explain the predictive power of DCNNs. Using a stimulus set consisting of identical target objects embedded in different backgrounds, we examined the influence of object background versus object category within both EEG and DCNN activity. Crucially, the recombination of naturalistic objects and experimentally controlled backgrounds creates a challenging and naturalistic task, while retaining experimental control. Our results showed that early EEG activity (< 100 msec) and early DCNN layers represent object background rather than object category. We also found that the ability of DCNNs to predict EEG activity is primarily influenced by how both systems process object backgrounds, rather than object categories. We demonstrated the role of figure-ground segregation as a potential prerequisite for recognition of object features, by contrasting the activations of trained and untrained (i.e., random weights) DCNNs. These findings suggest that both human visual cortex and DCNNs prioritize the segregation of object backgrounds and target objects to perform object categorization. Altogether, our study provides new insights into the mechanisms underlying object categorization as we demonstrated that both human visual cortex and DCNNs care deeply about object background.
The Self-reference Effect Can Modulate Language Syntactic Processing Even Without Explicit Awareness: An Electroencephalography Study
Authors: Rubianes Miguel , Drijvers Linda , Muñoz Francisco , Jiménez-Ortega Laura , Almeida-Rivera Tatiana , Sánchez-García José , Fondevila Sabela , Casado Pilar , Martín-Loeches Manuel
Published: January 2024

Although it is well established that self-related information can rapidly capture our attention and bias cognitive functioning, whether this self-bias can affect language processing remains largely unknown. In addition, there is an ongoing debate as to the functional independence of language processes, notably regarding the syntactic domain. Hence, this study investigated the influence of self-related content on syntactic speech processing. Participants listened to sentences that could contain morphosyntactic anomalies while the masked face identity (self, friend, or unknown faces) was presented for 16 msec preceding the critical word. The language-related ERP components (left anterior negativity [LAN] and P600) appeared for all identity conditions. However, the largest LAN effect followed by a reduced P600 effect was observed for self-faces, whereas a larger LAN with no reduction of the P600 was found for friend faces compared with unknown faces. These data suggest that both early and late syntactic processes can be modulated by self-related content. In addition, alpha power was more suppressed over the left inferior frontal gyrus only when self-faces appeared before the critical word. This may reflect higher semantic demands concomitant to early syntactic operations (around 150–550 msec). Our data also provide further evidence of self-specific response, as reflected by the N250 component. Collectively, our results suggest that identity-related information is rapidly decoded from facial stimuli and may impact core linguistic processes, supporting an interactive view of syntactic processing. This study provides evidence that the self-reference effect can be extended to syntactic processing.
Review of the lanternfly genus Pyrops of Thailand (Hemiptera: Fulgoridae) with notes and keys to species
Authors: JIARANAISAKUL KAWIN , CONSTANT JEROME , PINKAEW NANTASAK
Published: January 2024

Fourteen species of the lanternfly genus Pyrops Spinola were documented from Thailand during expeditions across the country and from citizen scientists’ records. The distribution maps of each species are provided, based on the examined material and records from iNaturalist citizen science platform. The species are illustrated and an identification key is also provided. The intraspecific colour variations of P. oculatus (Westwood, 1838) and P. pyrorhynchus (Donovan, 1800) are briefly discussed.
Catamicrophyllum beroni sp. nov.—the first European record of the genus Catamicrophyllum Verhoeff, 1901 (Diplopoda: Julida: Julidae)
Authors: VAGALINSKI BOYAN
Published: January 2024

A new species of Catamicrophyllum Verhoeff, 1901, Catamicrophyllum beroni sp. nov., is described from Rila Mts, southwest Bulgaria. The new species is compared to its most similar congener, Catamicrophyllum caucasicum (Attems, 1901) known from the Caucasus and Eastern Anatolia, including descriptive notes and scanning electron micrographs of the latter. The remarkably disjunct distribution areas of the two species are briefly discussed in the context of similar distribution patterns in other members of Julidae. In addition, some ecological notes and conservation issues in connection with the climatic changes occurring in the area of the type locality of C. beroni sp. nov. are presented.
What Controls the December Precipitation Deficit over the Southern Tibetan Plateau and the Northern Indian Continent?
Authors: Liu Yong , Zhang Zhongshi , Li Xiangyu , Li Hua , Chen Huopo
Published: January 2024

Winter precipitation is critical for glacier growth, snow accumulation, and terrestrial storage on the Tibetan Plateau (TP). However, less attention has been paid to the changes in winter precipitation on the TP. In this study, based on the newly developed high-accuracy precipitation dataset, our diagnosis illustrated a distinct precipitation deficit over the southern TP and northern Indian continent (STNI) in December. Together with the ERA5 reanalysis, CESM1.1 large ensemble experiments, and pacemaker experiments, the dynamic diagnosis revealed that the precipitation deficit was attributed to the decrease in dynamic effects. In particular, the enhanced descending motion, accompanied by the strengthened anticyclone and regional meridional circulation over the STNI, resulted in the precipitation deficit. The changes in circulation system related to the precipitation deficit could be attributed to the Pacific and Indian sea surface temperature (SST) variability. With the negative interdecadal Pacific oscillation (IPO), there were circumglobal alternative geopotential height anomalies and an anomalous anticyclone over the southern TP, and descending motion around the STNI associated with the enhanced Walker circulation over the Indo-Pacific, which exhibited a similar pattern to the precipitation deficit over the STNI in the observations. In addition, the synergistic effect of Pacific and Indian SST variability can improve the simulated precipitation deficit over the STNI relative to the Pacific SST variability alone. These results imply a contribution of the tropical SST variability to the precipitation trends over the STNI in early winter and provide an insight into the understanding of climate warming on the winter climate over the TP.
Three-dimensional printing with waste acrylonitrile butadiene styrene: Processing and characterization
Authors: Mishra Vishal , Negi Sushant , Kar Simanchal
Published: January 2024

Three-dimensional (3D) printing of waste plastic such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) is challenging because multiple heating cycles and irregular cooling cause accumulation of stress in 3D-printed structures, which significantly affects mesostructured and fiber-to-fiber bond strength. Hence, this study demonstrates the ability to print high-quality parts via 3D printing using ABS waste. The different weight proportions (100, 90/10, 80/20, 70/30, 60/40, 50/50) of recycled ABS (RABS)/virgin ABS (VABS) are selected for experimentation. It is found that increasing VABS content in RABS significantly improved the physical properties of samples. Due to VABS blending in RABS, the average enhancement in flexural strength (Sf), flex modulus (Ef), and work of fracture (WOF) are 11.49%, 5.45%, and 17.31%, respectively, when compared with 100% RABS samples. Similarly, the average increase in Young’s modulus (E), tensile strength at yield (Ty), and ultimate tensile strength (UTS) are 7.71%, 5.19%, and 3.51%, respectively. The samples printed with 50% RABS/50% VABS blends show superior mechanical properties than others, also the properties of 90% RABS/10% VABS and 80% RABS/20% VABS are very close to 100% VABS samples. Hence, this study provides unique opportunities for the sustainable use of waste ABS using 3D printing technology.
Prospective screening for monkeypox infection among users of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis in Denmark
Authors: Thomassen Sofie Ellen , von Schreeb Sebastian , Kirkby Nikolai Søren , Pinholt Mette , Lebech Anne-Mette , Kronborg Gitte , Engsig Frederik Neess
Published: January 2024

Introduction

During the 2022 outbreak of mpox (previously called monkeypox), which primarily affected Gay, Bisexual, and other Men who have Sex with Men (GBMSM), testing was mainly limited to individuals with symptoms of infection. Although sporadic cases of mpox continue to be diagnosed in Denmark, the feasibility of screening asymptomatic high-risk populations, such as those using HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), is still unknown.

Methods

During the autumn of 2022, a rectal swab test for mpox PCR was included in the routine sexually transmitted infections (STI) screening for PrEP users.

Results

The screening included 224 asymptomatic men with a median age of 36.5 years. One patient (0.4%) tested positive for mpox. Ten (4.5%) and nine (4.0%) had chlamydia and gonorrhea, respectively.

Discussion

Our study demonstrates that screening for mpox is feasible in two Danish PrEP clinics.
Modeling the co-combustion of bi-fuel blends in a drop tube furnace: A numerical approach
Authors: Aich Subhajit , Nandi Barun Kumar , Sengupta Aditi , Sharma Piyush
Published: January 2024

The present study focuses on the numerical modeling of the co-combustion of reject coal (RC) and sal leaves (SL) in a drop tube furnace (DTF) under different conditions, including air-fuel and oxy-fuel environments. The numerical results highlight the significant influence of replacing the N2 atmosphere with CO2 on the temperature profiles of individual fuels and their blends. For instance, when exposed to a 21%O2/79%CO2 atmosphere, Blend SL3 and Blend SL5 experience a decrease in temperature from 1372 K to 1559 K to 1327 K and 1395 K, respectively. Conversely, increasing the O2 concentration to 35% leads to a temperature rise. Furthermore, the combustion analysis reveals that the addition of 10% SL to RC in a 21%O2/79%N2 environment enhances the devolatilization rate from 1.41 × 10−12 kg/s to 1.77 × 10−12 kg/s. Additionally, the char combustion process for all blends is completed closer to the DTF inlet at 0.28 m, compared to 0.32 m for RC alone. These findings indicate that blending SL with RC promotes a favorable combustion process. Moreover, increasing the O2 concentration to 35% in oxy-fuel conditions enhances the temperature profiles. The numerical analysis demonstrates good agreement with experimental data within a range of ±5%–11%. This suggests that the developed model can be effectively utilized for optimizing and designing biomass co-firing systems in industrial applications, considering both air-fuel and oxy-fuel conditions.
Patient’s best interest as viewed by nursing students
Authors: Zolkefli Yusrita , Chandler Colin
Published: January 2024

Background

In recent years, patient advocacy has emerged as a prominent concept within healthcare. How nursing students decide what is best for their patients is not well understood.

Objective

The objective is to examine nursing students' views on doing what is best for patients during their clinical experiences and how they seek to establish patient interests when providing care. Research questions guiding the interview were as follows: (1) What are nursing students' perceptions of patient interests? (2) What factors influence nursing students' perceptions of advocating for patient’s interests?

Research design

Qualitative descriptive research using thematic analysis.

Participants and research context

Data was collected through individual online interviews with nine nursing students with clinical experience.

Ethical considerations

The study was approved by the University Research Ethics Committee. Participants provided digital informed consent.

Results

The students asserted that they are able to understand the patients' interests by placing emphasis on the patients' needs. They believe that it is crucial to adopt a collaborative strategy for the provision of care to meet these requirements. In addition, some of them expressed concern over the most effective methods of advocating for the interests of patients. Three themes were identified. (1) Focussing on patient needs first, (2) taking a collective approach, and (3) learning how to advocate.

Conclusions

Students understand and value the ethical commitments associated with advocating for the patient's best interest by considering factors such as prioritising the patient's needs, adopting a strategy that involves everyone, and acquiring the ability to undertake the advocacy role. Additionally, nursing education strategies in clinical contexts require additional study to inspire students to do what is in their patient’s best interests.
Peace and Development in South Asia: Problems and Prospects
Authors: Dutt Sagarika
Published: January 2024

South Asia has been recognised by the World Bank as an important region in the Global South. It has achieved robust economic growth over the past 20 years which has helped in reducing poverty and improving standards of human development. On the other hand, 36% of the world’s poor live in South Asia, so a lot more needs to be done. This article argues that South Asian countries need peace and stability in order to be able to concentrate on their economic development and achieve the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Centuries of colonial rule had led to the impoverishment of the South Asian region and its people. It also created two states, India and Pakistan, that have never had good relations with each other. This has had an impact on regional cooperation and prevented the countries in the region from working together to achieve their developmental goals. The article concludes that while the region needs to sustain high economic growth rates, it does not automatically lead to the reduction of poverty. Other measures have to be adopted to promote the welfare of the people of South Asia.
Fully analytic approach to study bifurcation phenomenon for a shape memory alloy beam under temperature variation and lateral white-noise excitation
Authors: Asnafi Alireza
Published: January 2024

The main aim of this article is to obtain the probability density function of the response of an SMA beam under lateral white-noise excitation and study the bifurcation phenomenon through a fully analytic approach. Firstly, an efficient constitutive stress–strain relation for a shape memory alloy material supporting both martensite and austenite phases is considered. Secondly, the governing equation of motion for a typical SMA simply supported beam is derived using some dimensionless parameters. Thirdly, the corresponding probability density function of the response is computed analytically using the powerful Fokker–Planck–Kolmogorov equation, and finally, the bifurcation phenomenon for parameter variations of the beam is investigated. The results show how geometric (beam aspect ratio), force (the mean value of the white-noise excitation), and environmental (working temperature) factors can affect the nonlinear behavior and response bifurcation of the beam. A numerical validation is also done that guarantees the correctness of the method and results.
Discrete sliding mode control based on a new fractional order power reaching law
Authors: Znidi Aicha , Khlif Rim Jallouli , Nouri Ahmed Said
Published: January 2024

This paper presents a robust controller design for a discrete linear system, dealing with internal and external disturbances. The main focus is to reduce chattering, minimize undesirable oscillations, and enhance robustness against disturbances using a new discrete sliding mode control. The novel approach involves replacing the classical Gao’s reaching law with a fractional order reaching law based on the Grunwald–Letnikov definition, leading to advantages like a simplified algorithm and improved performance against disturbances. The performances of the suggested method are evaluated through two simulation examples.
Quasiconvexity in a model of fiber-reinforced solids based on Cosserat elasticity theory
Authors: Shirani Milad , Bîrsan Mircea , Steigmann David J
Published: January 2024

The quasiconvexity inequality associated with energy minimizers is derived in the context of a nonlinear Cosserat elasticity theory for fiber-reinforced elastic solids in which the intrinsic flexural and torsional elasticities of the fibers are taken into account explicitly. The derivation accounts for non-standard kinematic constraints, associated with the materiality of the embedded fibers, connecting the deformation gradient and the Cosserat rotation field.
Factors Associated With Fatigue in Persons With Atrial Fibrillation in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study
Authors: Wood Kathryn A. , Alam Aniqa B. , Chen Lin Yee , Soliman Elsayed Z. , Quyyumi Arshed A. , Alonso Alvaro
Published: January 2024

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common cardiac arrhythmia affecting over 6 million people in the U.S. Fatigue is a frequent symptom of AF, yet no underlying biological mechanisms have been identified in AF-related fatigue as in other chronic conditions such as cancer or HIV fatigue (inflammation, tissue injury). We aimed to identify biomarkers and correlates of AF-fatigue in ARIC participants.

Methods

Participants with AF from ARIC visit 5 (2011–2013) were included in the study. Multiple linear regression was used to estimate the association of high sensitivity troponin (hs-TnT), N-terminal fragment B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) levels with self-reported fatigue (SF-12 and PROMIS Fatigue Scale), depressive symptoms (Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression survey), and physical functioning (Short Physical Performance Battery) scores. All biomarkers underwent natural-log transformation.

Results

There were 446 participants (mean age: 78 y ± 5; 44% women). In adjusted analyses, NT-proBNP was associated with AF-fatigue (β: 0.11, 95% CI: 0.03, 0.19), increased depressive symptoms (β: 0.44, 95% CI: 0.19, 0.70), and decreased physical function (β: −0.48, 95% CI: −0.72, −0.23). Hs-TnT was also associated with elevated AF-fatigue (β: 0.24, 95% CI: 0.09, 0.39) along with decreased physical function (β: −1.19, 95% CI: -1.64, −0.75). No significant associations were found with hsCRP and fatigue.

Conclusion

Increased levels of cardiac injury biomarkers, depressive symptoms, and decreased physical function were associated with AF-fatigue. Inflammation was not associated with AF-fatigue; other physiological pathways, such as cardiac overload or myocardial injury may be more relevant in AF-fatigue.
An Integrated 3-Dimentional Navigation System Increases the Accuracy, Efficiency, and Safety of Percutaneous Thoracolumbar Pedicle Screw Placement in Minimally Invasive Approaches: A Randomized Cadaveric Study
Authors: Lakomkin Nikita , Eastlack Robert K. , Uribe Juan S. , Park Paul , Ryu Stephen I. , Kretzer Ryan , Mimran Ronnie I. , Holman Paul , Veeravagu Anand , Hassanzadeh Hamid , Johnson Michele M. , Sullivan Linda , Clark Aaron , Mundis Gregory M.
Published: January 2024

Study Design

Cadaveric study.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to compare a novel, integrated 3D navigational system (NAV) and conventional fluoroscopy in the accuracy, efficiency, and radiation exposure of thoracolumbar percutaneous pedicle screw (PPS) placement.

Methods

Twelve skeletally mature cadaveric specimens were obtained for twelve individual surgeons. Each participant placed bilateral PS at 11 segments, from T8 to S1. Prior to insertion, surgeons were randomized to the sequence of techniques and the side (left or right). Following placement, a CT scan of the spine was obtained for each cadaver, and an independent reviewer assessed the accuracy of screw placement using the Gertzbein grading system. Outcome metrics of interest included a comparison of breach incidence/severity, screw placement time, total procedure time, and radiation exposure between the techniques. Bivariate statistics were employed to compare outcomes at each level.

Results

A total of 262 screws (131 using each technique) were placed. The incidence of cortical breaches was significantly lower with NAV compared to FG (9% vs 18%; P = .048). Of breaches with NAV, 25% were graded as moderate or severe compared to 39% in the FG subgroup ( P = .034). Median time for screw placement was significantly lower with NAV (2.7 vs 4.1 min/screw; P = .012), exclusive of registration time. Cumulative radiation exposure to the surgeon was significantly lower for NAV-guided placement (9.4 vs 134 μGy, P = .02).

Conclusions

The use of NAV significantly decreased the incidence of cortical breaches, the severity of screw breeches, screw placement time, and radiation exposure to the surgeon when compared to traditional FG.
Effect of Exosomes From Bone Marrow–Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells and Adipose-Derived Stromal Cells on Bone-Tendon Healing in a Murine Rotator Cuff Injury Model
Authors: Tan Xiaoqian , Xiao Han , Yan An , Li Miao , Wang Linfeng
Published: January 2024

Background:

Bone-tendon injury is characterized by poor self-healing. It is established that exosomes are favorable for tissue repair and regeneration. However, their effect on bone-tendon healing has not yet been determined.

Purpose:

To compare the effectiveness of exosomes derived from adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (ADSC-Exos) and bone marrow–derived mesenchymal stromal cells (BMSC-Exos) on bone-tendon interface healing in murine rotator cuff injury model and explore the underlying mechanisms thereof.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 63 male C57BL6 mice with rotator cuff injuries underwent surgery and were randomly assigned to a control group treated without exosomes (n = 21), an ADSC-Exos group (n = 21), or a BMSC-Exos group (n = 21). The mice were sacrificed 4 or 8 weeks after surgery, and tissues were collected for histologic examination and radiographic and biomechanical testing. For exosome tracing in vivo, mice were sacrificed 7 days after surgery. A series of functional assays (radiographic evaluation, proliferation assay, Alizarin Red staining, alkaline phosphatase staining and activity, Alcian blue staining, quantitative polymerase chain reaction analyses, and glycosaminoglycans quantification) were conducted to evaluate the effect of exosomes on the cellular behaviors of the BMSCs in vitro. A statistical analysis of multiple-group comparisons was performed by 1-way analysis of variance, followed by the Bonferroni post hoc test to assess the differences between the 2 groups.

Results:

The ADSCs and BMSCs were positive for surface markers CD29 and CD90 and negative for surface markers CD34 and CD45 and could differentiate into osteoblasts, chondrocytes, and adipocytes. Exosomes showed a cup- or sphere-shaped morphology and were positive for CD63 and TGS101. Local injection of ADSC-Exos and BMSC-Exos could recruit BMSCs and promote osteogenesis, chondrogenesis, and bone-tendon healing. In vitro, ADSC-Exos and BMSC-Exos could significantly promote the proliferation, migration, osteogenic differentiation, and chondrogenic differentiation ability of BMSCs. In vivo, ADSC-Exos and BMSC-Exos significantly accelerated bone-tendon injury healing, with no significant statistical difference between them.

Conclusion:

ADSC-Exos and BMSC-Exos exhibited similar therapeutic effects on bone-tendon healing in our murine animal model.

Clinical Relevance:

ADSC-Exos and BMSC-Exos may be used to develop a new cell-free therapy method for promoting rotator cuff injury repair.
Lessons learned from a cluster of immunization errors in newborns
Authors: Alj Loubna , Tebaa Amina , Talibi Ismail , Moubarik Sofia , Benazzouz Mohammed , Soulaymani Bencheikh Rachida
Published: January 2024

Background:

Vaccines are safe and effective, but adverse reactions can occur. Immunization errors (IEs) are one of the types of adverse events following immunization. The Moroccan Pharmacovigilance Centre (MPC) received a cluster of IEs from a maternity university hospital (MUH) regarding six newborns who were inadvertently administered rocuronium instead of hepatitis B (HepB) vaccine. The newborns experienced respiratory distress and one had a fatal outcome.

Objectives:

The study aimed to describe the investigation findings, the underlying causes, and contributing factors of the IEs cluster, and proposed risk minimization actions.

Design:

We carried out a descriptive analysis of the cluster of IEs related to the HepB vaccine reported to the MPC.

Methods:

An investigation was conducted by the Ministry of Health according to the World Health Organization guidance. The root cause analysis was performed to identify underlying causes and contributing factors that lead to IE occurrence.

Results:

The cluster analysis showed that the main contributing factors were the look-alike rocuronium and HepB vaccine packaging, the first-time running HepB vaccination for newborns in the MUH, the lack of a full-time pharmacist, and the unsafe storage of rocuronium and vaccines. The administration of Sugammadex to the newborns followed by their transfer to the neonatal care unit resulted in the recovery of five of the six newborns. Proposed recommendations included (1) raising awareness of healthcare professionals to the risk related to look-alike medications, (2) training nurses to ensure vaccination to implement procedures related to immunization practices, (3) nomination of a full-time pharmacist, (4) reassessment of the safety of drug storage and dispensing at the hospital pharmacy, particularly for high-alert medications.

Conclusion:

Reporting IEs, particularly serious ones, allows us to identify causes and contributing factors that led to their occurrence. Lessons learned from errors are key to take risk minimization actions to improve vaccine safety worldwide.
Demographic and Behavioral Differences Between Adolescents and Young Adults Who Use E-Cigarettes at Low and High Frequency
Authors: Singer Jill M. , Tackett Alayna P. , Klein Elizabeth G. , Lu Bo , Wagner Dylan D. , Wold Loren E. , Roberts Megan E.
Published: January 2024

Background:

Among adolescents and young adults (AYAs), “current use” of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) is commonly defined as any use in the past 30 days. However, few studies have examined differences among those within this broad category. This study examined characteristics of AYAs who used e-cigarettes at a low frequency (within the last 3 months but <6 days out of the past 30 days) and those who used e-cigarettes at a high frequency (6+ days out of the past 30 days).

Methods:

We conducted cross-sectional analyses among 551 Ohio AYAs (15- to 24-year-olds) who reported using an e-cigarette to vape nicotine in the past 3 months. We used descriptive statistics and logistic regression to characterize those using e-cigarettes at a low frequency and a high frequency.

Results:

Among our sample of AYAs who reported past 3-month e-cigarette use, about half (50.8%) reported using an e-cigarette 6 or more days out of the past 30 days (ie, high frequency). In the multivariable analysis, reported nicotine dependence (Odds Ratio [OR]: 7.0, 95% CI: 4.8, 10.3) and current other tobacco product use (OR: 1.8, 95% CI: 1.1, 2.9) were associated with high-frequency e-cigarette use.

Conclusion:

Our results suggest that frequency of use is an important characteristic in understanding AYA e-cigarette use. Any use in the past 30 days may not be sensitive enough to understand dependence and tobacco-use behaviors. Further characterizing “current” e-cigarette use by frequency of use may provide meaningful information for public health professionals to better target intervention and cessation efforts to AYAs.
Motivations for Misusing Opioids Among African Americans
Authors: Rigg Khary K. , Kusiak Ethan S. , Rigg Lindi K.
Published: January 2024

Background:

A wide range of opioid misuse motives have been documented in the literature, including to relieve physical pain, feel good/get high, relax, manage feelings/emotions, sleep, and moderate the effects of other substances. Despite a rise in opioid misuse among African Americans over the last 2 decades, their motivations for misuse remain unclear. Much of the research on opioid misuse motivations either rely on samples with little racial diversity or do not stratify their findings by race. As a result, less is known about the specific reasons why African Americans engage in opioid misuse. The objective of this study, therefore, was to identify and explain the most common motives for misusing opioids among African Americans. Qualitative interview data are also presented to explain/contextualize the most prevalent motivations.

Methods:

This study used data from the Florida Minority Health Survey, a mixed-methods project that included online surveys (n = 303) and qualitative in-depth interviews (n = 30) of African Americans. Data collection was conducted from August 2021 to February 2022 throughout Southwest Florida.

Results:

Analyses revealed that while some (33.9%) misused opioids for purposes of recreation/sensation seeking (eg, feel good/get high), the majority (66.1%) were attempting to self-treat perceived medical symptoms (eg, physical pain, anxiety/trauma, withdrawals, insomnia).

Conclusions:

This study contributes to a better understanding of why some African Americans engage in opioid misuse and findings highlight the need for interventions to be trauma informed and address unmanaged physical pain among African Americans. Given that most studies on motivations are quantitative in nature, the study contributes to the literature by capturing the voices of African Americans who use drugs.
Degraders upgraded: the rise of PROTACs in hematological malignancies
Authors: Casan Joshua M. L. , Seymour John F.
Published: January 2024

Targeted protein degradation (TPD) is a revolutionary approach to targeted therapy in hematological malignancies that potentially circumvents many constraints of existing small-molecule inhibitors. Heterobifunctional proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) are the leading TPD drug class, with numerous agents now in clinical trials for a range of blood cancers. PROTACs harness the cell-intrinsic protein recycling infrastructure, the ubiquitin-proteasome system, to completely degrade target proteins. Distinct from targeted small-molecule inhibitor therapies, PROTACs can eliminate critical but conventionally “undruggable” targets, overcome resistance mechanisms to small-molecule therapies, and can improve tissue specificity and off-target toxicity. Orally bioavailable, PROTACs are not dependent on the occupancy-driven pharmacology inherent to inhibitory therapeutics, facilitating substoichiometric dosing that does not require an active or allosteric target binding site. Preliminary clinical data demonstrate promising therapeutic activity in heavily pretreated populations and novel technology platforms are poised to exploit a myriad of permutations of PROTAC molecular design to enhance efficacy and targeting specificity. As the field rapidly progresses and various non-PROTAC TPD drug candidates emerge, this review explores the scientific and preclinical foundations of PROTACs and presents them within common clinical contexts. Additionally, we examine the latest findings from ongoing active PROTAC clinical trials.
Electrochemical Hydrogen Charging on Corrosion Behavior of Ti-6Al-4V Alloy in Artificial Seawater
Authors: Qiao Yanxin , Qin Yue , Zhou Huiling , Yang Lanlan , Wang Xiaojing , Wang Zhengbin , Liu Zhenguang , Zou Jiasheng
Published: January 2024

This study employs advanced electrochemical and surface characterization techniques to investigate the impact of electrochemical hydrogen charging on the corrosion behavior and surface film of the Ti-6Al-4V alloy. The findings revealed the formation of γ-TiH and δ-TiH2 hydrides in the alloy after hydrogen charging. Prolonging hydrogen charging resulted in more significant degradation of the alloy microstructure, leading to deteriorated protectiveness of the surface film. This trend was further confirmed by the electrochemical measurements, which showed that the corrosion resistance of the alloy progressively worsened as the hydrogen charging time was increased. Consequently, this work provides valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying the corrosion of Ti-6Al-4V alloy under hydrogen charging conditions.