bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Primary anastomosis of segmental external auditory canal atresia in one dog
Authors: Turner A , Levien A
Published: August 2023

This report describes a case of canine segmental external auditory canal atresia (EACA). The dog was managed medically with non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs until clinical deterioration, at which time a novel and successful end‐to‐end anastomosis surgical repair was performed. At the 30 day postoperative re‐examination, the dog was clinically well and otoscopy confirmed that there was no evidence of auditory canal stenosis. The patient remained free of ongoing issues 20 months after the surgery. End‐to‐end anastomosis should be considered for treatment of developmental segmental EACA in the canine.
Localised non‐metastatic sarcomatoid renal cell carcinoma: a 31‐year externally verified study
Authors: Blum Kyle A. , Silagy Andrew W. , Knezevic Andrea , Weng Stanley , Wang Alan , Mano Roy , Marcon Julian , DiNatale Renzo G. , Sanchez Alejandro , Tickoo Satish , Gupta Sounak , Motzer Robert , Haas Naomi B. , Kim Se Eun , Uzzo Robert G. , Coleman Jonathan A. , Hakimi A. Ari , Russo Paul
Published: August 2023

Objective

To evaluate post‐nephrectomy outcomes and predictors of cancer‐specific survival (CSS) between patients with localised sarcomatoid renal cell carcinoma (sRCC) and those with Grade 4 RCC (non‐sRCC), as most sRCC research focuses on advanced or metastatic disease with limited studies analysing outcomes of patients with localised non‐metastatic sRCC.

Patients and Methods

A total of 564 patients with localised RCC underwent partial or radical nephrectomy between June 1988 to March 2019 for sRCC (n = 204) or World Health Organization/International Society of Urological Pathology Grade 4 non‐sRCC (n = 360). The CSS at every stage between groups was assessed. Phase III ASSURE clinical trial data were used to externally validate the CSS findings. The Mann–Whitney U‐test and chi‐squared test compared outcomes and the Kaplan–Meier method evaluated CSS, overall survival (OS) and recurrence‐free survival. Clinicopathological features associated with RCC death were evaluated using Cox proportional hazards regression.

Results

The median follow‐up was 31.5 months. The median OS and CSS between the sRCC and Grade 4 non‐sRCC groups was 45 vs 102 months and 49 vs 152 months, respectively (P < 0.001). At every stage, sRCC had worse CSS compared to Grade 4 non‐sRCC. Notably, pT1 sRCC had worse CSS than pT3 Grade 4 non‐sRCC. Negative predictors of CSS were sarcomatoid features, non‐clear cell histology, positive margins, higher stage (pT3/pT4), and use of minimally invasive surgery (MIS). ASSURE external verification showed worse CSS in patients with sRCC (hazard ratio [HR] 1.63, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.12–2.36; P = 0.01), but not worse outcomes in MIS surgery (HR 1.39, 95% CI 0.75–2.56; P = 0.30).

Conclusions

Localised sRCC had worse CSS compared to Grade 4 non‐sRCC at every stage. Negative survival predictors included positive margins, higher pathological stage, use of MIS, and non‐clear cell histology. sRCC is an aggressive variant even at low stages requiring vigilant surveillance and possible inclusion in adjuvant therapy trials.
Navigating and resisting platform affordances: Online sex work as digital labor
Authors: Rand Helen M. , Stegeman Hanne M.
Published: August 2023

The context in which labor occurs shapes work. In online work, the platform is one site of work and therefore influences the experiences of workers. Current research on affordances considers how these platform features create value for the platform, shape workers' rights and safety, and reinforce existing racial hierarchies through algorithms. This project, researching online sex work practices in the UK, adds to this literature on platform work by analyzing how workers themselves experience and view the role of platform affordances in their work. With sex work as gendered and stigmatized labor, it also provides unique insights into the role of platforms in valuing typically feminized work both economically and culturally. Drawing on 19 interviews with workers on the UK‐dominant platform AdultWork and platform observations, we show that platform affordances do create, shape, and maintain the valuation of online labor but in dynamic and relational processes with workers. Structural analysis shows how platform affordances may create competition that decreases the value of labor, but individually sex workers revealed strategies to engage with these affordances to resist devaluation and set boundaries in what appears to be a highly competitive market, thus, highlighting the multidirectional, relational agency, and connectivity between platform affordances and workers. By focusing on the experiences of sex workers, the findings contribute to discussions on the role of platforms in valuing feminized online labor.
3D‐printed alumina‐based ceramics with spatially resolved porosity
Authors: Nohut Serkan , Schlacher Josef , Kraleva Irina , Schwentenwein Martin , Bermejo Raul
Published: August 2023

The interest on porous ceramics has increased in the last years with the developments in additive manufacturing methods, enabling design of components with complex geometries for membranes, filters, catalytic converters, or biostructures. In this study, porous alumina samples were produced by using different concentrations of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) as pore‐forming agent (PFA) in a photocurable slurry via vat photopolymerization (VPP). The effect of layer thickness, PMMA particle size, and sintering temperature on the mechanical properties and microstructural features of the samples was investigated as a function of PMMA concentration. It is shown that the mechanical properties of 3D‐printed porous alumina are comparable with those fabricated by conventional processes. The Young modulus, fracture toughness as well as the biaxial strength decreased with increasing weight concentration of PFA (resulting in an increased total porosity). Specially using smaller PMMA particles has a positive effect, resulting in higher Young's modulus as well as fracture toughness. The feasibility of VPP for fabricating novel parts with more complex porosity regions is explored by printing multi‐material samples and porosity‐graded architectures. The counterbalance effect between porosity and mechanical properties may be optimized by tailoring material composition and processing parameters.
Extraction and characterisation of avocado seed starch (Persea americana Miller) and application in aerogels
Authors: Frasson Sabrina Feksa , Nunes Gabrielle Tomaz , Biduski Barbara , Mendonça Carla Rosane Barboza , Colussi Rosana
Published: August 2023

Avocado seed (Persea americana Miller) is a by‐product of fruit processing and is considered a potential alternative source of starch. The use of starches from unconventional sources can be an alternative to replace modified starches as a functional ingredient in food systems. This study aimed to extract and characterise starch from avocado seed varieties Fortuna and Hass and produce aerogels. Starches were characterised by physical, chemical, thermal and morphological properties. The aerogels were produced by physical crosslinking and evaluated for water absorption capacity and physical properties. The starch extraction yield was 12%, and the granules had oval and spherical morphology. Amylose content ranged from 41.95% to 49.46%, and relative crystallinity from 22% to 25% for Hass and Fortuna, respectively. The Fortuna starch showed higher pasting temperature, peak viscosity, peak time and final viscosity values. Aerogels had excellent structural characteristics and had not deformed after 24 h of hydration; the Fortuna starch aerogels showed higher water absorption and mechanical resistance. The properties of avocado seed starch indicate a vast potential for application in food industries and for developing biodegradable packaging with excellent physical properties and excellent water retention capacity.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for Applied Economics and Finance, Vol. 10, No. 3
Authors: Gibbs Nikki
Published: August 2023

Applied Economics and Finance (AEF) would like to acknowledge the following reviewers for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Many authors, regardless of whether AEF publishes their work, appreciate the helpful feedback provided by the reviewers. Their comments and suggestions were of great help to the authors in improving the quality of their papers. Each of the reviewers listed below returned at least one review for this issue.Reviewers for Volume 10, Number 3 Ali Darub Al-Hiyali, University of Anbar, IraqBabacar Seck, University of Bahrain, BahrainHichem Maraghni, University of Taibah, TunisiaIgor Matyushenko, School of Foreign Economic Relations and Touristic Business, UkraineKeffala Mohamed Rochdi, University of Manouba, TunisiaLingkai Kong, Izmir University of Economics, TurkeyMagdalena Radulescu, University of Pitesti, RomaniaMarco Muscettola, Independent Researcher-Credit Risk Manager, ItalyNikoloz Chikhladze, Akaki Tsereteli State University, GeorgiaPatrycja Kowalczyk-Rolczynska, Wroclaw University of Economics and Business, PolandRajeev Rana, APB Govt. P.G. College, IndiaRamona Orastean, Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, RomaniaSzabolcs Blazsek, Universidad Francisco Marroquín, GuatemalaY. Saidi, M’sila University, Algeria     Nikki GibbsEditorial AssistantOn behalf of,The Editorial Board of Applied Economics and FinanceRedfame Publishing9450 SW Gemini Dr. #99416Beaverton, OR 97008, USAURL: http://aef.redfame.com
Physical Activity During the COVID-19 Stay-at-Home Order in Active Older Adults: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Damewood Maria E. , Clark Savannah-Faith , Artese Ashley L.
Published: August 2023

To reduce the spread of COVID-19, in March of 2020, the state of Virginia issued a stay-at-home order requiring fitness center closures for 2.4 months. The purpose of this study was to explore how the fitness center closures influenced physical activity (PA) in older adults who previously participated in the centers’ exercise classes. Eleven older adults (69.0 ± 6.6 years) completed semistructured interviews, which were transcribed and analyzed to identify emergent themes. Ten participants reported engaging in PA during the stay-at-home order; four participants maintained/increased PA compared to prepandemic levels. Four themes emerged regarding PA are as follows: recognition of the value of PA, high self-efficacy in regard to PA, adaptation to circumstances, and functional limitations. Findings suggest that prior exercise class participation positively influenced PA. While most participants did not maintain prepandemic PA levels, they remained active because they recognized the benefits of PA, had high self-efficacy for exercise, and adapted to their circumstances.
Universal theory of strange metals from spatially random interactions
Authors: Patel Aavishkar A. , Guo Haoyu , Esterlis Ilya , Sachdev Subir
Published: August 2023

Strange metals—ubiquitous in correlated quantum materials—transport electrical charge at low temperatures but not by the individual electronic quasiparticle excitations, which carry charge in ordinary metals. In this work, we consider two-dimensional metals of fermions coupled to quantum critical scalars, the latter representing order parameters or fractionalized particles. We show that at low temperatures (
T
), such metals generically exhibit strange metal behavior with a
T
-linear resistivity arising from spatially random fluctuations in the fermion-scalar Yukawa couplings about a nonzero spatial average. We also find a
T
ln(1/
T
) specific heat and a rationale for the Planckian bound on the transport scattering time. These results are in agreement with observations and are obtained in the large
N
expansion of an ensemble of critical metals with
N
fermion flavors.
Chemical remodeling of a cellular chaperone to target the active state of mutant KRAS
Authors: Schulze Christopher J. , Seamon Kyle J. , Zhao Yulei , Yang Yu C. , Cregg Jim , Kim Dongsung , Tomlinson Aidan , Choy Tiffany J. , Wang Zhican , Sang Ben , Pourfarjam Yasin , Lucas Jessica , Cuevas-Navarro Antonio , Ayala-Santos Carlos , Vides Alberto , Li Chuanchuan , Marquez Abby , Zhong Mengqi , Vemulapalli Vidyasiri , Weller Caroline , Gould Andrea , Whalen Daniel M. , Salvador Anthony , Milin Anthony , Saldajeno-Concar Mae , Dinglasan Nuntana , Chen Anqi , Evans Jim , Knox John E. , Koltun Elena S. , Singh Mallika , Nichols Robert , Wildes David , Gill Adrian L. , Smith Jacqueline A. M. , Lito Piro
Published: August 2023

The discovery of small-molecule inhibitors requires suitable binding pockets on protein surfaces. Proteins that lack this feature are considered undruggable and require innovative strategies for therapeutic targeting.
KRAS
is the most frequently activated oncogene in cancer, and the active state of mutant KRAS is such a recalcitrant target. We designed a natural product–inspired small molecule that remodels the surface of cyclophilin A (CYPA) to create a neomorphic interface with high affinity and selectivity for the active state of KRAS
G12C
(in which glycine-12 is mutated to cysteine). The resulting CYPA:drug:KRAS
G12C
tricomplex inactivated oncogenic signaling and led to tumor regressions in multiple human cancer models. This inhibitory strategy can be used to target additional KRAS mutants and other undruggable cancer drivers. Tricomplex inhibitors that selectively target active KRAS
G12C
or multiple RAS mutants are in clinical trials now (NCT05462717 and NCT05379985).
The tRNA methyltransferase TrmB is critical for
Acinetobacter baumannii
stress responses and pulmonary infection
Authors: McGuffey Jenna C. , Jackson-Litteken Clay D. , Di Venanzio Gisela , Zimmer Aubree A. , Lewis Jessica M. , Distel Jesus S. , Kim Kyusik Q. , Zaher Hani S. , Alfonzo Juan , Scott Nichollas E. , Feldman Mario F.
Published: August 2023

Successful pathogens must be able to adapt to a multitude of stressors imposed by their host.
Acinetobacter baumannii
has emerged as a major global health threat due to its exceptional ability to adapt to hostile environments and skyrocketing rates of multidrug resistance. Recent studies have begun to explore the importance of tRNA methylation in the regulation of bacterial stress responses, including adaptation to antibiotic and oxidative stresses. However, tRNA methyltransferases (trms) have not been investigated in
A. baumannii
. Bioinformatic analyses revealed nine putative, SAM-dependent trms conserved across clinical
A. baumannii
isolates and laboratory strains. We generated eight
trm
mutants in a modern, colistin-resistant clinical isolate, ARC6851, and analyzed the mutants’ stress responses. One mutant, Δ
trmB
, was vastly more sensitive to oxidative stress and displayed a growth defect at low pH. Accordingly, Δ
trmB
was unable to replicate in J774A.1 macrophages and had decreased virulence in an acute pneumonia murine model. Subsequently, we showed that
A. baumannii
TrmB makes the m
7
G tRNA modification. A proteomic analysis revealed that ARC6851 significantly upregulates a siderophore biosynthesis and uptake cluster, acinetobactin, under oxidative stress. In contrast, the upregulation of the acinetobactin proteins in Δ
trmB
was only modest, which impacted its ability to withstand iron deprivation under oxidative stress. qRT-PCR data showed that TrmB-dependent regulation of acinetobactin is post-transcriptional. Our results indicate that TrmB-mediated stress responses are important for
A. baumannii
pathogenesis, highlighting the therapeutic potential of targeting trms to combat the rise of multidrug-resistant
A. baumannii
.

IMPORTANCE

As deficiencies in tRNA modifications have been linked to human diseases such as cancer and diabetes, much research has focused on the modifications’ impacts on translational regulation in eukaryotes. However, the significance of tRNA modifications in bacterial physiology remains largely unexplored. In this paper, we demonstrate that the m
7
G tRNA methyltransferase TrmB is crucial for a top-priority pathogen,
Acinetobacter baumannii
, to respond to stressors encountered during infection, including oxidative stress, low pH, and iron deprivation. We show that loss of TrmB dramatically attenuates a murine pulmonary infection. Given the current efforts to use another tRNA methyltransferase, TrmD, as an antimicrobial therapeutic target, we propose that TrmB, and other tRNA methyltransferases, may also be viable options for drug development to combat multidrug-resistant
A. baumannii
.
Outcome of cochlear implantation in a case of cochlear aplasia with cochlear nerve deficiency
Authors: Hota Bibhu Prasad , Behera Sanjay Kumar , Karakkandy Vinusree , Chappity Preetam
Published: August 2023

Cochlear nerve deficiency in cochlear aplasia is a contraindication for cochlear implantation (CI) anticipating poor auditory response. Few authors have reported auditory outcomes even without nerves following CI. This study outlines the audiological outcomes of a patient in early childhood with cochlear aplasia and cochlear nerve deficiency who underwent CI. Auditory and speech-language development were assessed using the Categories of Auditory Performance (CAP) scale, Speech Intelligibility Rating (SIR) scale and Ling-6 sound test; at the time of switch-on, after 6 and 12 months of auditory verbal therapy. Significant differences across CAP, SIR and Ling-6 sound detection scores were noted, with the highest mean scores at the 12th-month postimplantation, indicating substantial improvement in auditory and speech-language skills. In cochlear aplasia cases, residual cochlear elements and nerve fibres cannot be ruled out. Our report emphasises the need for research, as this has the potential to impact the existing guidelines for CI candidacy.
Forensic rhetoric: COVID-19, the forum and the boundaries of healthcare evidence
Authors: Jones David Houston
Published: August 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought into sharp focus the shifting role of healthcare evidence in public health presentations. This article investigates the rhetoric of those presentations as a phenomenon indicating both the commitment to evidence-based public health messaging and its political loading in three interlinked case studies: computer-generated imagery ; ‘podium’ presentation and the NSO Fleming leak of COVID-19 contact tracing data. The pandemic has seen healthcare evidence attain ever-greater visibility in public forums, and those forums have themselves undergone rapid transformation. ‘Podium’ presentations such as press conferences have featured colourful imagery, and the manifold visualisations of SARS-CoV-2 which have accompanied television broadcasts and web pages display an insistent internal rhetoric. I analyse both forms of rhetoric for what they say about the ‘forensic’ moment created by COVID-19, and evaluate each in relation to Weizman’s conception of the forum, which enables both ‘frontstage’ corporate and governmental image-building and public scrutiny. This paper evaluates the politics of the presentational strategies which have arisen around COVID-19 and the ethical potential of the forum.
Deep Neural Network-based Mixed Speech Recognition Technology for Chinese and English
Authors: Han Lei
Published: August 2023

In the field of human-computer interaction, the current more advanced speech recognition systems are all single speech recognition, and it is urgent to adopt new in-depth learning technology to improve the existing speech recognition system. In this context, this research is based on DNN and investigates mixed speech recognition techniques for both Chinese and English. A single speech recognition algorithm based on DNN is first investigated, and then a new hybrid Chinese and English speech recognition model is constructed by fusing the attention mechanism and CTC loss function. In the construction of the hybrid speech recognition model, the end-to-end model and Transformer framework are used to combine the monotonic alignment property of the CTC loss function, which allows complex sound units to be transformed into characters for easy extraction and recognition. The performance of the constructed models was tested on Chinese speech dataset, English speech dataset and mixed Chinese and English speech dataset to determine the recognition accuracy and speed of the models. The results show that the proposed recognition model achieves 81.2% recognition accuracy and 100 recognition speed/minute on the Chinese-English mixed speech dataset, which is much better than the other three models. This study successfully addresses the need for improved speech recognition systems by introducing a novel hybrid model for mixed Chinese-English speech recognition. The experimental results confirm the superiority of the proposed model, achieving high accuracy and rapid recognition speed. The developed model holds promising potential for enhancing human-computer interaction and enabling efficient communication between Chinese and English speakers.
Survey on Digital Sovereignty and Identity: From Digitization to Digitalization
Authors: Tan Kheng Leong , Chi Chi-Hung , Lam Kwok-Yan
Published: August 2023

Through digital transformation, lots of personal data are captured, but individuals often do not have ownership or control over them. This results in the emerging Web 3.0, where people demand data sovereignty. There are actually two conceptually related terms, data sovereignty and digital sovereignty. This paper first explains these two concepts in terms of their points of focus, guiding principles, laws and regulations requirements, and then analyses the requirements and technical challenges of their implementation. To understand the emerging trend shift in digital sovereignty towards individuals taking control of security and privacy preserving over their own digital assets, this paper conducts a systematic review and analysis on Self-Sovereign Identity (SSI), which is a user-centric decentralized model and autonomy for an individual to self-determine the access and use of one's identity and credentials. The review covers existing SSI solutions and points out that an efficient key management system, the scalability and interoperability of the solution, and a well-established standard are some of the challenges for SSI deployment. Finally, the paper concludes with open issues about digital identity, including dynamic attributes, persona, and attribute ownership, that challenge the current reference architecture of SSI as well as its implementation.
Role of the SLC22A17/lipocalin-2 receptor in renal endocytosis of proteins/metalloproteins: a focus on iron- and cadmium-binding proteins
Authors: Thévenod Frank , Herbrechter Robin , Schlabs Carolin , Pethe Abhishek , Lee Wing-Kee , Wolff Natascha A. , Roussa Eleni
Published: August 2023

The transmembrane protein SLC22A17 [or the neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin/lipocalin-2 (LCN2)/24p3 receptor] is an atypical member of the SLC22 family of organic anion and cation transporters: it does not carry typical substrates of SLC22 transporters but mediates receptor-mediated endocytosis (RME) of LCN2. One important task of the kidney is the prevention of urinary loss of proteins filtered by the glomerulus by bulk reabsorption of multiple ligands via megalin:cubilin:amnionless-mediated endocytosis in the proximal tubule (PT). Accordingly, overflow, glomerular, or PT damage, as in Fanconi syndrome, results in proteinuria. Strikingly, up to 20% of filtered proteins escape the PT under physiological conditions and are reabsorbed by the distal nephron. The renal distal tubule and collecting duct express SLC22A17, which mediates RME of filtered proteins that evade the PT but with limited capacity to prevent proteinuria under pathological conditions. The kidney also prevents excretion of filtered essential and nonessential transition metals, such as iron or cadmium, respectively, that are largely bound to proteins with high affinity, e.g., LCN2, transferrin, or metallothionein, or low affinity, e.g., microglobulins or albumin. Hence, increased uptake of transition metals may cause nephrotoxicity. Here, we assess the literature on SLC22A17 structure, topology, tissue distribution, regulation, and assumed functions, emphasizing renal SLC22A17, which has relevance for physiology, pathology, and nephrotoxicity due to the accumulation of proteins complexed with transition metals, e.g., cadmium or iron. Other putative renal functions of SLC22A17, such as its contribution to osmotic stress adaptation, protection against urinary tract infection, or renal carcinogenesis, are discussed.
Loss of endothelial glucocorticoid receptor accelerates organ fibrosis in db/db mice
Authors: Srivastava Swayam Prakash , Goodwin Julie E.
Published: August 2023

The major finding of this work is that endothelial glucocorticoid receptor-mediated upregulation of Wnt signaling and concurrent hyperinflammation work synergistically to exacerbate organ fibrosis in a genetic mouse model of diabetes. This study adds to our understanding of diabetic renal fibrosis and has important implications for the use of metformin in this condition.
“Hi, how can i help you?”: embracing artificial intelligence in kidney research
Authors: Layton Anita T.
Published: August 2023

In recent years, biology and precision medicine have benefited from major advancements in generating large-scale molecular and biomedical datasets and in analyzing those data using advanced machine learning algorithms. Machine learning applications in kidney physiology and pathophysiology include segmenting kidney structures from imaging data and predicting conditions like acute kidney injury or chronic kidney disease using electronic health records. Despite the potential of machine learning to revolutionize nephrology by providing innovative diagnostic and therapeutic tools, its adoption in kidney research has been slower than in other organ systems. Several factors contribute to this underutilization. The complexity of the kidney as an organ, with intricate physiology and specialized cell populations, makes it challenging to extrapolate bulk omics data to specific processes. In addition, kidney diseases often present with overlapping manifestations and morphological changes, making diagnosis and treatment complex. Moreover, kidney diseases receive less funding compared with other pathologies, leading to lower awareness and limited public-private partnerships. To promote the use of machine learning in kidney research, this review provides an introduction to machine learning and reviews its notable applications in renal research, such as morphological analysis, omics data examination, and disease diagnosis and prognosis. Challenges and limitations associated with data-driven predictive techniques are also discussed. The goal of this review is to raise awareness and encourage the kidney research community to embrace machine learning as a powerful tool that can drive advancements in understanding kidney diseases and improving patient care.
The Immunomodulatory Activity of Punica granatum L. Peel Extract Increases the Lifespan of Mice with Lethal Sepsis
Authors: de O. Trovão Liana , dos S. Rodrigues Liliane , Mendes Priscila M. , Alves Patrícia C. S. , da S. Oliveira Aluísio , Brito Jefferson M. , Vale André A. M. , de O. Garbis Dimitrius V. , Simão Gisele , dos Santos Ana Paula S. A. , Pereira Paulo V. S. , Silva Lucilene A. , Berretta Andresa A. , Nascimento Flávia R. F. , Guerra Rosane N. M. , Monteiro-Neto Valério , Fernandes Elizabeth S. , Maciel Márcia C. G.
Published: August 2023

Sepsis is an organ dysfunction syndrome associated with high mortality. To date, no effective treatment is available to combat this disease. Punica granatum L. is a potential alternative treatment due to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of a hydroalcoholic crude extract from the peels of P. granatum (HCEPg) in mice with lethal sepsis. Lethal polymicrobial sepsis was induced in female Swiss mice via cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). Initially, the animals were divided into three groups: Sham (false-operated), CLP-control (phosphate-buffered saline), and CLP-HCEPg (single dose, 5 mg/kg, subcutaneous administration). Treatment was initiated immediately after the induction of sepsis, and survival was evaluated every 12 hr for 5 days. Those who survived were euthanized. Serum cytokine levels were measured using a cytometric bead array Mouse Inflammatory Cytokine Kit. The number of colony-forming units, as well as the number of cells in the lymphoid organs and their activation markers, were analyzed. Results showed that treatment with HCEPg increased lifespan and reduced bacterial counts in the peritoneum, bloodstream, and spleen. HCEPg also decreased hydrogen peroxide secretion by phagocytes and augmented serum IL-10 levels, indicating its systemic anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, treatment with HCEPg attenuated infection-induced lung hemorrhage. Overall, P. granatum extract improved the lifespan of septic mice, possibly due to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects, thereby regulating bacterial load and translocation, as well as controlling the systemic inflammation induced by sepsis.
Does Aortic Arch Anatomy Affect Stroke Laterality in Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation?
Authors: Campanella Caterina , Vitanova Keti , Burri Melchior , Ruge Hendrik , Lange Rüdiger , Voss Stephanie
Published: August 2023

Background. Current data reveal a predominace of left as opposed to right-sided cerebral strokes after transcatether aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Aortic arch variations might raise the likelihood of cardioembolic particles entering predominantly the left cerebral circulation during catheter tracking and manipulation. Aim. We sought to analyse the impact of aortic arch anatomy on stroke laterality (right vs. left) in patients undergoing TAVR. Methods. All patients who developed a symptomatic, periprocedural left- or right-sided ischemic stroke after TAVR between June 2007 and August 2022 were included in this study. Multislice computed tomography (MSCT) analysis was used to assess aortic arch anatomy, arch configuration (types I–III), arch tortuosity, and the determination of the take-off angles of the supraaortic arteries. Results. The final study cohort comprised 77 patients. Periprocedural ischemic stroke was left-sided in 66.2% of the patients (n = 51) and right-sided in 33.8% (n = 26) (p = 0.006). MSCT analysis revealed a standard aortic arch branching pattern in 70.1% (n = 54) and a common origin of the brachiocephalic and left common arteries (bovine arch anatomy) in 29.9% (n = 23) of the patients. There was no association between the anatomical variations of the aortic arch and stroke laterality

p
=
0.601

. Frequency of arch configuration types was 15.6% (type I), 74.0% (type II), and 10.4% (type III). There was no correlation between the different types of configuration and the laterality of periprocedural stroke (type I:

p
=
0.526

, type II:

p
=
0.585

, and type III:

p
=
1.000

). Aortic arch tortuosity and angulation of the supraaortic arteries did also not differ between right- and left-sided strokes. Conclusion. Our data add evidence that there is a significant propensity for left-hemispheric strokes in patients undergoing TAVR. However, MSCT analysis in our cohort did not reveal an association between aortic arch geometry and laterality of stroke.
Spatiotemporal Variability of Hot Days in Association with the Large-Scale Atmospheric Drivers over Vietnam
Authors: Ta Huu Chinh , Phan Van Tan , Mai Van Khiem , Vu Van Thang , Hoang Phuc Lam , Lohpaisankrit Worapong , Bao Pham Quoc , Trong Nguyen Trinh , Nguyen Thanh Phong
Published: August 2023

The severe heatwaves and hot spells in Vietnam were observed more frequently in intensity and duration due to global warming and climate change impacts. The hot days and extreme summer events make the weather harsh and significantly affect human health and the environment. This study presents the spatiotemporal distribution of the number of hot days (NHDs) in Vietnam. The variability of NHD in seven climate subregions is also examined in association with the large-scale drivers. The European Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) reanalysis version 5 (ERA5) data for the period 1981–2020 are used. Principal component analysis is also applied to the observed monthly NHD to obtain spatial patterns and time series. The results show that the NHD in the Highland and South subregions from March to May is linked with the subtropical high associated with decreased 500hPa-level vertical velocity (VV500). From May to June, the North and Central subregions seem related to deepening the Asiatic low and enhancement of southwest flows across the Indochina Peninsula. Finally, both increased southwest flows and decreased VV500 can partly contribute to the intensification of NHD in the North and Central subregions during July and August. The long trends of NHD are also examined. The results reveal that the increasing trends in NHD occur in most subregions, except for the Central Highland, and changing trends of NHD in June greatly contribute to the annual trend of NHD. Finally, the examinations with the El Niño-Southern Oscillation events show that NHD is significantly higher in El Niño events than in La Niña events in March and April for the Northwest, South Central, Central Highlands, and South, in May and June for all subregions, and in July and August for only the Red River Delta subregion. This suggests that ENSO can provide the potential for improving seasonal climate forecasts and mitigating natural disaster risks for the community.
Refining National Forest Cover Data Based on Fusion Optical Satellite Imageries in Indonesia
Authors: Aulia Ogy Dwi , Apriani Isnenti , Juanda Andi , Barri Mufti Fathul , Dewi Rosima Wati , Muharam Fauzan Nafis , Oktanine Bryandanu , Phoa Theresia Bernadette , Condro Aryo Adhi
Published: August 2023

Precision mapping towards tropical forest cover data is critical to address the global climate crisis, such as land-based carbon measurement and potential conservation areas identification. In the recent decade, accessibility to open public datasets on forestry is rapidly increased. However, the availability of finer-resolution of forest cover data is still very limited. As a developing country with numerous rainforests, Indonesia suffered multifaceted threats, particularly deforestation. Thus, precise forest cover data can be useful to fulfill Indonesia’s nationally determined contribution to climate change. In this study, we mapped the national forest cover data for Indonesia using a new object-based image classification approach based on combined Planet-NICFI and Sentinel-2 optical imageries. Our findings had relatively high accuracy compared with the other studies, with the F score ranging from 0.67 to 0.99 and can capture the fragmented forest in fine resolution (i.e., ∼5 m). In addition, we found that Planet-NICFI bands had a higher contribution in predicting forest cover than Sentinel-2 imageries. Utilizing forest cover data for further analyses should be performed to help the achievement of national and global agenda, e.g., related to the FOLU net sink in 2030 and the Global Biodiversity Framework.
Lorazepam Stimulates IL6 Production and Is Associated with Poor Survival Outcomes in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Cornwell Abigail C. , Tisdale Arwen A. , Venkat Swati , Maraszek Kathryn E. , Alahmari Abdulrahman A. , George Anthony , Attwood Kristopher , George Madison , Rempinski Donald , Franco-Barraza Janusz , Seshadri Mukund , Parker Mark D. , Cortes Gomez Eduardo , Fountzilas Christos , Cukierman Edna , Steele Nina G. , Feigin Michael E.
Published: August 2023

Purpose:

This research investigates the association between benzodiazepines (BZD) and cancer patient survival outcomes, the pancreatic cancer tumor microenvironment, and cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) signaling.

Experimental Design:

Multivariate Cox regression modeling was used to retrospectively measure associations between Roswell Park cancer patient survival outcomes and BZD prescription records. IHC, H&E, Masson's trichrome, RNAscope, and RNA sequencing were used to evaluate the impact of lorazepam (LOR) on the murine PDAC tumor microenvironment. ELISA and qPCR were used to determine the impact of BZDs on IL6 expression or secretion by human-immortalized pancreatic CAFs. PRESTO-Tango assays, reanalysis of PDAC single-cell sequencing/TCGA data sets, and GPR68 CRISPRi knockdown CAFs were used to determine the impact of BZDs on GPR68 signaling.

Results:

LOR is associated with worse progression-free survival (PFS), whereas alprazolam (ALP) is associated with improved PFS, in pancreatic cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. LOR promotes desmoplasia (fibrosis and extracellular matrix protein deposition), inflammatory signaling, and ischemic necrosis. GPR68 is preferentially expressed on human PDAC CAFs, and n-unsubstituted BZDs, such as LOR, significantly increase IL6 expression and secretion in CAFs in a pH and GPR68-dependent manner. Conversely, ALP and other GPR68 n-substituted BZDs decrease IL6 in human CAFs in a pH and GPR68-independent manner. Across many cancer types, LOR is associated with worse survival outcomes relative to ALP and patients not receiving BZDs.

Conclusions:

We demonstrate that LOR stimulates fibrosis and inflammatory signaling, promotes desmoplasia and ischemic necrosis, and is associated with decreased pancreatic cancer patient survival.
Perfil sociodemográfico e saúde mental de pacientes em tratamento oncológico durante a pandemia da COVID-19 em uma unidade de combate ao câncer de Anápolis – GO
Authors: Macedo Rafaela Melo , Garcia Thaís Ribeiro , Castanheira Eduarda Pereira , Noleto Débora Costa , Freitas Thales Vieira Medeiros , Silva Priscilla Ramos de Alencar , Alvares Laize Evelyn Magalhães de Brito , Brito Marina Angélica Magalhães de , Issa Guilherme Antonio Caixeta , Bessa Milena Aparecida Coelho Ribeiro , Cardoso Hígor Chagas
Published: August 2023

A doença por coronavírus 2019 (Covid-19) repercutiu em diversas dimensões, afetando aspectos como o socioeconômico, o educacional e o da saúde, corroborando para o aumento de distúrbios mentais na população em geral. Por conseguinte, os pacientes em tratamento oncológico são afetados psicologicamente por esse cenário, o que pode refletir diretamente em adesão terapêutica, prognóstico e qualidade de vida. Sendo assim, o presente estudo teve como objetivo descrever o perfil sociodemográfico e avaliar a influência do cenário pandêmico na saúde mental de pacientes em tratamento oncológico na cidade de Anápolis – Goiás. Trata-se de um estudo descritivo, transversal, de abordagem quantitativa, envolvendo pacientes entre 18 e 90 anos de idade em tratamento antineoplásico de março de 2020 à março de 2021, sendo usado para coleta de dados o Questionário de Saúde Geral (QSG-12). Participaram da pesquisa 133 pacientes, sendo 66,2% do sexo feminino; a idade variou de 20 a 87 anos, com prevalência entre 50 e 70 anos (54,13%); a situação conjugal predominante foi “casado” (52,6%); pertencentes à religião católica (61,7%); a maioria com baixa escolaridade (51,9%); e com uma renda de até um salário mínimo (58,6%). Em relação à saúde mental, percebeu-se que a sensação de agonia (42,1%), a incapacidade em concentrar-se no que faz (45,1%) e a a perda do sono pelas preocupações (45,1%) foram os aspectos negativos mais relatados. Também notou-se que não houve diminuição significativa das visitas ambulatoriais em razão da pandemia, sendo os aspectos mais considerados por aqueles que reduziram suas idas, o isolamento social e o receio de contrair a doença da Covid-19. Desse modo, deve-se haver um maior fomento a pesquisas sobre esse assunto, a fim de oferecer um melhor atendimento a esse perfil de pacientes.
Desafios terapêuticos da mucosite oral em oncopediatria
Authors: Oliveira Iasminy Soares de , Deus Larissa Pavan de , Esteves Tereza Cristina , Chaves Maria das Graças Afonso Miranda , Fabri Júlia Campos , Fabri Gisele Maria Campos
Published: August 2023

O Neuroblastoma (NB) é uma neoplasia do sistema nervoso simpático, e o segundo tumor sólido maligno extracraniano mais comum da infância. Na terapia antineoplásica, complicações orais podem ser observadas, dentre elas a mucosite oral (MO). Trata-se de uma inflamação aguda da mucosa, proveniente da toxicidade dos quimioterápicos. Este relato de caso enfatiza o manejo da MO, bem como sua influência na condição sistêmica e qualidade de vida. Paciente do sexo feminino, nove anos, apresentou recidiva de NB metastático, após tratamento de primeira linha. Admitida na unidade hospitalar para tratamento oncológico na enfermaria de pediatria oncológica, queixando-se de dor intensa em cavidade bucal e orofaringe, associada a pancitopenia severa febril. Ao exame físico apresentava disfagia e déficit ponderal grave, que debilitava a deglutição da própria saliva. O exame intraoral revelou lesões de MO grau 3, segundo a Organização Mundial de Saúde (OMS), em lábios, gengiva anterior e orofaringe. O tratamento consistiu em remoção de debris local, higiene da cavidade bucal com clorexidina 0,12% e utilizando haste flexível de algodão estéril tipo “Swab”, visando controle microbiano local, diariamente. Além disso, foi aplicado no leito eritematoso e hemorrágico fotobiomodulação (660 nm, 50 mW, 2 J/cm2, 90 segundos) pontualmente nas áreas do leito da lesão e em varredura na região de orofaringe (sessões intercaladas). Foi prescrito acetato de racealfatocoferol (vitamina E) para ação antioxidante e hidratação dos lábios. Concomitante a mucosite, a paciente apresentou pancitopenia febril severa, sendo necessário uso de cefepima 150 mg/kg/dia, com coleta prévia de hemoculturas, fator estimulador de colônias de granulócitos, Fluconazol, hidratação e suporte nutricional. As hemoculturas foram negativas. As consequências da mucosite contribuíram para desnutrição e piora da qualidade de vida. Conclui-se que a intervenção odontológica em interdisciplinaridade, possibilitou o restabelecimento físico e emocional, possibilitando melhor uma qualidade de vida da paciente.
High levels of blood pressure among Brazilian overweight and obese children and adolescents
Authors: Nogueira-de-Almeida Maria Eduarda , Mello Elza Daniel de , Ued Fábio da Veiga , Del Ciampo Luiz Antonio , Ferraz Ivan Savioli , Rodrigues Andrea Contini , Silva Raquel Farias Barreto , Nogueira-de-Almeida Carlos Alberto
Published: August 2023

Background: Arterial hypertension (AH) is a growing problem globally, bringing various health consequences. Numerous surveys show that the risk of AH is higher in overweight and obese individuals than in eutrophic ones. However, the number of data that investigates blood pressure in obese pediatric populations is still small. Therefore, this study aims to assess the prevalence of hypertension in overweight and obese children and adolescents. Methods:Retrospective cross-sectional study with children and adolescents from two health services in different regions of Brazil and distinct socioeconomic profiles. All children and adolescents seen between 1998-2020, aged 5-17 years, with a body mass index greater than +1 standard deviation (Z-score), were enrolled in the study. Blood pressure was measured once with the patient lying down and at rest. American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines were used to classify the patient’s blood pressure levels. Results: 691 patients were evaluated (49% male). Of these, 47.6% had hypertension. The prevalences of hypertension among overweight and obese subjects were 38.8% and 51.5% (p = 0.002), respectively. In addition, obese people were 1.67 times more likely to have hypertension than overweight people. Males had a higher prevalence of hypertension (52.1% vs. 43.3%; p = 0.002) and were 1.3 times more likely to have high blood pressure values. Conclusion: The prevalence of hypertension was high in overweightand obese children and adolescents from two pediatric outpatient clinics. Males and subjects with obesity were at significantly higher risk of having hypertension.
Qualidade de vida e aspectos funcionais de pacientes pós-Covid-19 submetidos à reabilitação pulmonar
Authors: Tonelli Gabriel Bessa Tibery , Mendes Giovanne Leite , Costa Alice Freitas , Borges Pedro Henrique Lacerda , Alves Rafaela de Carvalho , Silva Marcos Gontijo da , Silveira Janne Marques
Published: August 2023

INTRODUÇÃO: pacientes que tiveram Covid-19, independente do espectro clínico da doença, podem apresentar sintomas persistentes após a alta hospitalar por até 14 meses. Estes pacientes apresentam comprometimentos funcionais e de qualidade de vida sendo, portanto, indicada a reabilitação pulmonar. Este estudo avaliou os aspectos funcionais e a qualidade de vida de pacientes pós-Covid-19 atendidos em um programa de reabilitação pulmonar. MÉTODOS: trata-se de um estudo prospectivo do tipo coorte clínica. Os pacientes pós-Covid-19 que integraram um programa de reabilitação pulmonar por seis semanas consecutivas foram avaliados em relação às variáveis funcionalidade pelo Índice de Barthel e pela escala PCFS, e a qualidade de vida pelo SF-36 na admissão (T0) e após seis semanas de reabilitação (T1). RESULTADOS: Onze pacientes que participaram do estudo apresentaram melhora da funcionalidade tanto pelo Índice de Barthel (p<0,01) como pela escala PCFS (p<0,01) e, também, melhora da qualidade de vida nos domínios capacidade funcional (p< 0,01), limitação por aspectos físicos (p<0,05) e aspectos sociais (p<0,01) no T1 em relação ao T0. CONCLUSÃO: pacientes pós-Covid-19 apresentaram melhora da funcionalidade e da qualidade de vida após um programa de reabilitação pulmonar.
Organoides de cérebro como modelos de doenças de Alzheimer e Parkinson: uma revisão narrativa sobre as perspectivas para medicina regenerativa e personalizada
Authors: Souza Raysa Taynara Vasconcelos de , Santana Pedro Henrique Gomes , Parreira Ricardo Cambraia , Oliveira Lucas Felipe , Raminelli Adrieli Oliveira , Marques Bruno Lemes , Mendes Filho Daniel
Published: August 2023

Há muitos anos a cultura celular bidimensional (2D) é utilizada como modelo de estudo de doenças, possuindo grande importância na medicina regenerativa, apesar de ainda conter limitações significativas. A fim de contornar essas limitações, a cultura celular tridimensional (3D) propõe uma organização mais complexa e sustentável que pode ser produzida a partir de células-tronco adultas (ASCs), células-tronco embrionárias (ESCs) ou células-tronco pluripotentes induzidas (iPSCs). A cultura 3D possibilitou o cultivo de células em um ambiente mais próximo do fisiológico, levando à formação de distintos tecidos órgãos-específicos. Em outras palavras, a cultura de células 3D possibilita a criação de estruturas orgânicas muito semelhantes aos órgãos de um ser humano, tanto estruturalmente, quanto funcionalmente. Desse modo, tem-se o que é chamado de organoides. O uso dos organoides tem crescido exponencialmente em ambientes in vitro, permitindo a análise e observação dos diversos fenômenos fisiológicos existentes. Como exemplo, pode-se citar os organoides cerebrais (“mini-brains”) reproduzidos in vitro buscando delinear as peculiaridades e complexidades do cérebro humano, com o objetivo de compreender algumas disfunções neurológicas que acometem esse sistema, como as duas principais doenças neurodegenerativas: Doenças de Alzheimer e Parkinson. Portanto, os organoides cerebrais podem permitir notável avanço da medicina regenerativa aplicada a doenças neurodegenerativas, já que esses “mini-brains” podem ser produzidos a partir de células do próprio paciente. Isso permitirá intervenções personalizadas, como testagens farmacológicas, a fim de definir qual seria o melhor tratamento medicamentoso. Consequentemente, essa tecnologia pode permitir terapias mais eficientes e individualizadas - o que é fundamental para a Medicina Personalizada.