bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender differences in spinal mobility during postural changes: a detailed analysis using upright CT
Authors: Mizukoshi Ryo , Yagi Mitsuru , Yamada Yoshitake , Yokoyama Yoichi , Yamada Minoru , Watanabe Kota , Nakamura Masaya , Nagura Takeo , Jinzaki Masahiro
Published: April 2024

Lumbar spinal alignment is crucial for spine biomechanics and is linked to various spinal pathologies. However, limited research has explored gender-specific differences using CT scans. The objective was to evaluate and compare lumbar spinal alignment between standing and sitting CT in healthy individuals, focusing on gender differences. 24 young and 25 elderly males (M) and females (F) underwent standing and sitting CT scans to assess lumbar spinal alignment. Parameters measured and compared between genders included lumbar lordosis (LL), sacral slope (SS), pelvic tilt (PT), pelvic incidence (PI), lordotic angle (LA), foraminal height (FH), and bony boundary area (BBA). Females showed significantly larger changes in SS and PT when transitioning from standing to sitting (p = .044, p = .038). A notable gender difference was also observed in the L4-S LA among the elderly, with females showing a significantly larger decrease in lordotic angle compared to males (− 14.1° vs. − 9.2°, p = .039*). Females consistently exhibited larger FH and BBA values, particularly in lower lumbar segments, which was more prominent in the elderly group (M vs. F: L4/5 BBA 80.1 mm2 [46.3, 97.8] vs. 109.7 mm2 [74.4, 121.3], p = .019 in sitting). These findings underline distinct gender-related variations in lumbar alignment and flexibility, with a focus on noteworthy changes in BBA and FH in females. Gender differences in lumbar spinal alignment were evident, with females displaying greater pelvic and sacral mobility. Considering gender-specific characteristics is crucial for assessing spinal alignment and understanding spinal pathologies. These findings contribute to our understanding of lumbar spinal alignment and have implications for gender-specific spinal conditions and treatments.
Resveratrol prevents the release of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) by controlling hydrogen peroxide levels and nuclear elastase migration
Authors: de Mattos Thayana Roberta Ferreira , Formiga-Jr Marcos Antonio , Saraiva Elvira Maria
Published: April 2024

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are defense mechanisms that trap and kill microorganisms and degrade cytokines. However, excessive production, dysregulation of suppression mechanisms, or inefficient removal of NETs can contribute to increased inflammatory response and the development of pathological conditions. Therefore, research has focused on identifying drugs that inhibit or delay the NET release process. Since reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a significant role in NET release, we aimed to investigate whether resveratrol (RSV), with a wide range of biological and pharmacological properties, could modulate NET release in response to different stimuli. Thus, human neutrophils were pretreated with RSV and subsequently stimulated with PMA, LPS, IL-8, or Leishmania. Our findings revealed that RSV reduced the release of NETs in response to all tested stimuli. RSV decreased hydrogen peroxide levels in PMA- and LPS-stimulated neutrophils, inhibited myeloperoxidase activity, and altered the localization of neutrophil elastase. RSV inhibition of NET generation was not mediated through A2A or A2B adenosine receptors or PKA. Based on the observed effectiveness of RSV in inhibiting NET release, our study suggests that this flavonoid holds potential as a candidate for treating NETs involving pathologies.
Participation and autonomy, independence in activities of daily living and upper extremity functioning in individuals with spinal cord injury
Authors: Lili Lamprini , Sunnerhagen Katharina S. , Rekand Tiina , Alt Murphy Margit
Published: April 2024

Improvements in care and rehabilitation have resulted in a higher proportion of people living with spinal cord injury (SCI), which calls for an increased focus on participation and autonomy. This observational cross-sectional study investigated the impact of SCI on autonomy and how it correlates to activity performance and upper extremity functioning. A total of 25 adults (mean age 58 years) with chronic cervical or thoracic SCI were included. Self-perceived autonomy was measured with Impact on Participation and Autonomy questionnaire, independence in activities of daily living (ADL) with Spinal Cord Independence Measure, upper extremity functioning with Action Research Arm Test (ARAT) and kinematic measures of the drinking task. The results showed that most participants perceived injury-related restrictions in outdoor autonomy (80%), family role (76%), and in indoor autonomy (72%). Independence in self-care (r = 0.72), mobility (r = 0.59) and upper extremity kinematics of movement time (r = 0.63) and smoothness (r = 0.49) were correlated to indoors autonomy. Social life autonomy was correlated to self-care (r = 0.50) and ARAT (r = 0.41). In conclusion, autonomy was perceived restricted after SCI in several major life areas and correlated with independence in ADL and upper extremity functioning. The aspects of autonomy should be considered more in goal setting and clinical decision-making.
Research on mix design and mechanical performances of MK-GGBFS based geopolymer pastes using central composite design method
Authors: Yao Ziqi , Luo Ling , Qin Yongjun , Cheng Jiangbo , Qu Changwei
Published: April 2024

In order to alleviate environmental problems and reduce CO2 emissions, geopolymers had drew attention as a kind of alkali-activated materials. Geopolymers are easier access to raw materials, green and environment friendly than traditional cement industry. Its special reaction mechanism and gel structure show excellent characteristics such as quick hardening, high strength, acid and alkali resistance. In this paper, geopolymer pastes were made with metakaolin (MK) and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) as precursors. The effects of liquid–solid ratio (L/S) and modulus of sodium silicate (Ms) on the performances of MK-GGBFS based geopolymer paste (MSGP) were characterized by workability, strength and microstructural tests. The regression equations were obtained by central composite design method to optimize the mix design of MSGP. The goodness of fit of all the equations were more than 98%. Based on the results of experiments, the optimum mix design was found to have L/S of 0.75 and Ms of 1.55. The workability of MSGP was significantly improved while maintaining the strength under the optimum mix design. The initial setting time of MSGP decreased by 71.8%, while both of the fluidity and 28-d compressive strength increased by 15.3%, compared with ordinary Portland cement pastes. Therefore, geopolymers are promising alternative cementitious material, which can consume a large amount of MK and GGBFS and promote green and clean production.
Associations between static and dynamic changes of platelet counts and in-hospital mortality in critical patients with acute heart failure
Authors: Wang Lili , Liu Tao , Zhu Zhijian , Wang Bing , Lu Zhigang , Pan Yesheng , Sun Lifang
Published: April 2024

To investigate the predictive value of baseline platelet count and its short-term dynamic changes in the prognosis of patients with acute heart failure (AHF) in the intensive care unit. Patients diagnosed with AHF in the medical information mart for intensive care III and their clinical data were retrospectively filtered. Patients were divided into survivor and non-survivor groups based on their prognosis during hospitalization, and differences in baseline data between groups were compared. Logistic regression models and restricted cubic spline (RCS) plots were performed to evaluate the relationship between baseline platelet counts and in-hospital mortality. Changes and trends in platelet counts were compared between the survivor and non-survivor groups after adjusting for confounders with the generalized additive mixing model (GAMM). A total of 2930 critical patients with acute heart failure were included, of which 2720 were survivors and 210 were non-survivors. Multiple logistic regression models revealed that baseline platelet count was an independent factor in hospital mortality (OR 0.997, 95% CI 0.994–0.999, P-value = 0.018). The RCS plot demonstrated a U-shaped dose–response relationship between baseline platelet count and in-hospital mortality. GAMM analysis suggested that the platelet counts decreased and then increased in the survivor group and gradually decreased in the non-survivor group, with a gradual increase of difference between two groups. After adjusting for confounders, the mean daily increase was −6.014 (95% CI −7.076–4.953, P-value < 0.001). Baseline platelet demonstrated a U-shaped dose–response relationship with adverse outcomes in critical patients with AHF. Early elevation of platelet was correlated with higher in-hospital mortality, indicating that tracking early changes in platelet might help determine the short-term prognosis of critical patients with AHF.
Relationship between the strength of the ankle and toe muscles and functional stability in young, healthy adults
Authors: Słomka Kajetan J. , Michalska Justyna
Published: April 2024

This study investigates the relationship between ankle and toe strength and functional stability in young adults, with a sample comprising sixteen females and fourteen males. The research employed force platform data to determine the center of foot pressure (COP) and calculated the forward functional stability index (FFSI) through foot anthropometric measurements. Strength measurements of toe and ankle muscles, during maximal isometric flexion and extension, were conducted using force transducers. Notable positive correlations were found between toe flexor strength and FFSI (left flexor: r = 0.4, right flexor: r = 0.38, p < 0.05), not influenced by foot anthropometry. Contrarily, no significant correlation was observed between ankle muscle strength and FFSI, despite a positive correlation with the COP range. The moderate correlation coefficients suggest that while toe flexor strength is a contributing factor to functional stability, it does not solely determine functional stability. These findings highlight the critical role of muscle strength in maintaining functional stability, particularly during forward movements and emphasize the utility of FFSI alongside traditional COP measures in balance assessment. It is recommended to employ a multifaceted approach is required in balance training programs.
Risk factors for early-onset adjacent segment degeneration after one-segment posterior lumbar interbody fusion
Authors: Nakajima Hideaki , Watanabe Shuji , Honjoh Kazuya , Kubota Arisa , Matsumine Akihiko
Published: April 2024

Adjacent segment degeneration (ASD) is a major postoperative complication associated with posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF). Early-onset ASD may differ pathologically from late-onset ASD. The aim of this study was to identify risk factors for early-onset ASD at the cranial segment occurring within 2 years after surgery. A retrospective study was performed for 170 patients with L4 degenerative spondylolisthesis who underwent one-segment PLIF. Of these patients, 20.6% had early-onset ASD at L3-4. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, preoperative larger % slip, vertebral bone marrow edema at the cranial segment on preoperative MRI (odds ratio 16.8), and surgical disc space distraction (cut-off 4.0 mm) were significant independent risk factors for early-onset ASD. Patients with preoperative imaging findings of bone marrow edema at the cranial segment had a 57.1% rate of early-onset ASD. A vacuum phenomenon and/or concomitant decompression at the cranial segment, the degree of surgical reduction of slippage, and lumbosacral spinal alignment were not risk factors for early-onset ASD. The need for fusion surgery requires careful consideration if vertebral bone marrow edema at the cranial segment adjacent to the fusion segment is detected on preoperative MRI, due to the negative impact of this edema on the incidence of early-onset ASD.
An analysis of information segregation in parallel streams of a multi-stream convolutional neural network
Authors: Tamura Hiroshi
Published: April 2024

Visual information is processed in hierarchically organized parallel streams in the primate brain. In the present study, information segregation in parallel streams was examined by constructing a convolutional neural network with parallel architecture in all of the convolutional layers. Although filter weights for convolution were initially set to random values, color information was segregated from shape information in most model instances after training. Deletion of the color-related stream decreased recognition accuracy of animate images, whereas deletion of the shape-related stream decreased recognition accuracy of both animate and inanimate images. The results suggest that properties of filters and functions of a stream are spontaneously segregated in parallel streams of neural networks.
Changes in anti-Müllerian hormone values for ovarian reserve after minimally invasive benign ovarian cystectomy: comparison of the Da Vinci robotic systems (Xi and SP) and the laparoscopic system
Authors: Park Yunjeong , Song Ayoung , Jee Junghyun , Bae Nayoung , Oh Sumin , Shin Jung-Ho , Kim Yong Jin
Published: April 2024

To investigate the impact on the ovarian reserve after minimally invasive ovarian cystectomy using two platforms, the Da Vinci robotic system (Xi and SP) and the laparoscopic system. Patients underwent laparoscopic or Da Vinci robotic (Xi or SP) ovarian cystectomy for benign ovarian cysts between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2022 at Guro Hospital, Korea University Medical center. We measured the change of AMH values (%) = [(postAMH − preAMH)] × 100/preAMH. No significant differences in preoperative age, cyst size, estimated blood loss during surgery, hemoglobin drop, length of hospital stay, adhesion detachment rate and cyst rupture rate were observed. However, the operative time was significantly shorter in the laparoscopic group than that in the robotic group (67.78 ± 30.58 min vs. 105.17 ± 38.87 min, p < 0.001) The mean preAMH and postAMH were significantly higher with the Da Vinci robotic group than with the laparoscopic group (preAMH: 5.89 ± 4.81 ng/mL vs. 4.01 ± 3.59 ng/mL, p = 0.02, postAMH: 4.36 ± 3.31 ng/mL vs. 3.08 ± 2.60 ng/mL, p = 0.02). However, the mean ΔAMH was not significantly different between two groups. ΔAMH also did not demonstrate significant differences among the three groups; laparoscopic, Xi and SP robotic. Even in the patient groups with preAMH < 2 and diagnosed with endometriosis, the ΔAMH did not show significant differences between the laparoscopic and robotic groups. The Da Vinci robotic system is no inferior to conventional laparoscopic systems in preserving ovarian function.
Association between maternal cardiometabolic markers and fetal growth in non-complicated pregnancies: a secondary analysis of the PRINCESA cohort
Authors: Omaña-Guzmán Isabel , Ortiz-Hernández Luis , Ancira-Moreno Monica , Godines-Enriquez Myrna , O’Neill Marie , Vadillo-Ortega Felipe
Published: April 2024

The objective of this study was to evaluate the association of maternal cardiometabolic markers trajectories (glucose, triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol, systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP)) with estimated fetal weight trajectories and birth weight in Mexican pregnant women without medical complications. Cardiometabolic marker trajectories were characterized using group-based trajectory models. Mixed-effect and linear regression models were estimated to assess the association of maternal trajectories with estimated fetal weight and birth weight. The final sample comprised 606 mother–child dyads. Two trajectory groups of maternal cardiometabolic risk indicators during pregnancy were identified (high and low). Fetuses from women with higher values of TG had higher weight gain during pregnancy ($$\hat{\beta }$$

β
^

 = 24.00 g; 95%CI: 12.9, 35.3), were heavier at the sixth month ($$\widehat{\beta }$$

β
^

=48.24 g; 95%CI: 7.2, 89.7) and had higher birth weight ($$\widehat{\beta }$$

β
^

= 89.08 g; 95%CI: 20.8, 157.4) than fetuses in the low values trajectory. Fetuses from mothers with high SBP and DBP had less weight in the sixth month of pregnancy ($$\widehat{\beta }$$

β
^

= − 42.4 g; 95%CI: − 82.7, − 2.1 and $$\widehat{\beta }$$

β
^

= − 50.35 g; 95%CI: − 94.2, − 6.4), and a higher DBP trajectory was associated with lower birth weight ($$\widehat{\beta }$$

β
^

= − 101.48 g; 95%CI: − 176.5, − 26.4). In conclusion, a longitudinal exposition to high values of TG and BP was associated with potentially adverse effects on fetal growth. These findings support the potential modulation of children’s phenotype by maternal cardiometabolic conditions in pregnancies without medical complications.
Statistical data pre-processing and time series incorporation for high-efficacy calibration of low-cost NO2 sensor using machine learning
Authors: Koziel Slawomir , Pietrenko-Dabrowska Anna , Wojcikowski Marek , Pankiewicz Bogdan
Published: April 2024

Air pollution stands as a significant modern-day challenge impacting life quality, the environment, and the economy. It comprises various pollutants like gases, particulate matter, biological molecules, and more, stemming from sources such as vehicle emissions, industrial operations, agriculture, and natural events. Nitrogen dioxide (NO2), among these harmful gases, is notably prevalent in densely populated urban regions. Given its adverse effects on health and the environment, accurate monitoring of NO2 levels becomes imperative for devising effective risk mitigation strategies. However, the precise measurement of NO2 poses challenges as it traditionally relies on costly and bulky equipment. This has prompted the development of more affordable alternatives, although their reliability is often questionable. The aim of this article is to introduce a groundbreaking method for precisely calibrating cost-effective NO2 sensors. This technique involves statistical preprocessing of low-cost sensor readings, aligning their distribution with reference data. Central to this calibration is an artificial neural network (ANN) surrogate designed to predict sensor correction coefficients. It utilizes environmental variables (temperature, humidity, atmospheric pressure), cross-references auxiliary NO2 sensors, and incorporates short time series of previous readings from the primary sensor. These methods are complemented by global data scaling. Demonstrated using a custom-designed cost-effective monitoring platform and high-precision public reference station data collected over 5 months, every component of our calibration framework proves crucial, contributing to its exceptional accuracy (with a correlation coefficient near 0.95 concerning the reference data and an RMSE below 2.4 µg/m3). This level of performance positions the calibrated sensor as a viable, cost-effective alternative to traditional monitoring approaches.
Leukemia circulation kinetics revealed through blood exchange method
Authors: Miller Alex B. , Rodriguez Felicia H. , Langenbucher Adam , Lin Lin , Bray Christina , Duquette Sarah , Zhang Ye , Goulet Dan , Lane Andrew A. , Weinstock David M. , Hemann Michael T. , Manalis Scott R.
Published: April 2024

Leukemias and their bone marrow microenvironments undergo dynamic changes over the course of disease. However, little is known about the circulation kinetics of leukemia cells, nor the impact of specific factors on the clearance of circulating leukemia cells (CLCs) from the blood. To gain a basic understanding of CLC dynamics over the course of disease progression and therapeutic response, we apply a blood exchange method to mouse models of acute leukemia. We find that CLCs circulate in the blood for 1–2 orders of magnitude longer than solid tumor circulating tumor cells. We further observe that: (i) leukemia presence in the marrow can limit the clearance of CLCs in a model of acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), and (ii) CLCs in a model of relapsed acute myeloid leukemia (AML) can clear faster than their untreated counterparts. Our approach can also directly quantify the impact of microenvironmental factors on CLC clearance properties. For example, data from two leukemia models suggest that E-selectin, a vascular adhesion molecule, alters CLC clearance. Our research highlights that clearance rates of CLCs can vary in response to tumor and treatment status and provides a strategy for identifying basic processes and factors that govern the kinetics of circulating cells.
Regulation of enzymatic reactions by chemical composition of peptide biomolecular condensates
Authors: Harris Rif , Veretnik Shirel , Dewan Simran , Baruch Leshem Avigail , Lampel Ayala
Published: April 2024

Biomolecular condensates are condensed intracellular phases that are formed by liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) of proteins, either in the absence or presence of nucleic acids. These condensed phases regulate various biochemical reactions by recruitment of enzymes and substrates. Developments in the field of LLPS facilitated new insights on the regulation of compartmentalized enzymatic reactions. Yet, the influence of condensate chemical composition on enzymatic reactions is still poorly understood. Here, by using peptides as minimalistic condensate building blocks and β-galactosidase as a simple enzymatic model we show that the reaction is restricted in homotypic peptide condensates, while product formation is enhanced in peptide-RNA condensates. Our findings also show that condensate composition affects the recruitment of substrate, the spatial distribution, and the kinetics of the reaction. Thus, these findings can be further employed for the development of microreactors for biotechnological applications.
Synthetic aperture radar backscatter is influenced by bubbles at the ice/water interface of an Antarctic lake
Authors: Gaudreau Adam , Lacelle Denis , Andersen Dale T.
Published: April 2024

Synthetic aperture radar is an invaluable tool for monitoring lake ice. This study utilizes synthetic aperture radar to analyze the 2019-2023 backscatter time series of perennially ice-covered Lake Untersee in East Antarctica. We observed stark seasonal backscatter variations, averaging –9.6 dB from December to March and –3.7 dB from May to November. These fluctuations correspond to the abundance of sub-centimeter bubbles at the ice/water interface. Notably, the backscatter increase in April-May aligns closely with variations in ice thickness across the lake. Our findings suggest that ice cover thickness influences the timing and duration of ice accretion at the bottom, the accumulation of dissolved gases and bubbles, and the resultant changes in surface roughness at the ice/water interface. These factors collectively impact the backscatter response. This study enhances our understanding of the interactions between subsurface processes and synthetic aperture radar backscatter, shedding light on the seasonal dynamics of perennially ice-covered lakes.
MusE GAs FLOw and Wind (MEGAFLOW)
Authors: Schroetter Ilane , Bouché Nicolas F. , Zabl Johannes , Wendt Martin , Cherrey Maxime , Langan Ivanna , Schaye Joop , Contini Thierry
Published: April 2024

Absorption line spectroscopy using background quasars can provide strong constraints on galactic outflows. In this paper we investigate possible scaling relations between outflow properties, namely outflow velocity Vout, mass ejection rate Ṁout, and mass loading factor η, and the host galaxy properties, such as star formation rate (SFR), SFR surface density, redshift, and stellar mass, using galactic outflows probed by background quasars from MEGAFLOW and other surveys. We find that Vout (η) is (anti-)correlated with SFR and SFR surface density. We extend the formalism of momentum-driven outflows from a previous study to show that it applies not only to “down-the-barrel” studies, but also to winds probed by background quasars, suggesting a possible universal wind formalism. Under this formalism, we find a clear distinction between strong and weak outflows where strong outflows seem to have tighter correlations with galaxy properties (SFR or galaxy stellar mass) than weak outflows.
Absorbable Hemostatic Agents Mimic Gossypiboma or Infected Collection on Imaging
Authors: Koikkara Kirti Anna , Paul Joseph Chacko , Abraham Vineeth Joseph , Lakhani Aisha , Kanamathareddy Harsha Veena , Kathirvelu Gopinathan , Chandramohan Anuradha
Published: April 2024

Absorbable hemostatic agents are commonly used in clinical practice and their imaging appearance is less known. In our case series, we demonstrate how absorbable hemostatic agents can masquerade as other clinically and medicolegally significant conditions such as gossypiboma and infected collections. Through our report, we aimed to describe the imaging features of absorbable hemostatic agents, to compare them with their imaging mimics, and provide a comprehensive review of the available literature.
Can Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced MRI Be Used to Differentiate Hepatic Hemangioma from Other Lesions in Early Infancy?
Authors: Halevy Dan , Sayed Blayne A. , Shaikh Furqan , Siddiqui Iram , Chavhan Govind B.
Published: April 2024

Background Confident diagnosis of hepatic hemangioma on imaging can avoid biopsy in early infancy and helps guide conservative management.

Purpose This article aims to determine if dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to differentiate liver hemangioma from other lesions in infants ≤ 100 days and to determine association of MRI features with hepatic lesions.

Methods MRI performed for liver lesions were retrospectively reviewed to note imaging characteristics and the MRI diagnosis. Final diagnosis was assigned based on pathology in available cases and by corroborative standard of reference including overall clinical features, lab findings, and follow-up.

Results Of 30 infants (18 boys, 12 girls; average age 42.2 days) included, 18 had solitary and 12 had multifocal lesions. Diagnoses in total 33 lesions included hemangiomas (23), hepatoblastoma (6), arteriovenous malformation (2), neuroblastoma metastases (1), and infarction (1). MRI and final diagnosis matched in 94% lesions with almost perfect agreement (kappa 0.86) for reader 1, and matched in 88% lesions with substantial agreement (kappa 0.71) for reader 2. Interobserver agreement for MRI diagnosis was substantial (kappa 0.62). Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy of MRI in differentiating hemangioma from other lesions were 100, 90, 96, 100, and 97%, respectively. Centripetal (16/23) or flash (5/23) filling were only seen with hemangioma. There was no significant difference in alpha-fetoprotein elevation (p 0.08), average size (p 0.35), multifocality (p 0.38), and intralesional hemorrhage (p 1) between hemangioma and hepatoblastoma.

Conclusion Centripetal filling on dynamic imaging and absence of washout are characteristic MRI features of hepatic hemangioma that can help to differentiate it from other lesions in early infancy.
COVID-19 Vaccines: A Radiological Review of the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
Authors: Kumar Ishan , Ansari Mohammad Sharoon , Verma Ashish , Singh Pramod Kumar , Chakrabarti Sankha Shubhra , Shukla Ram Chandra
Published: April 2024

The World Health Organization has declared “with great hope” an end to COVID-19 as a public health emergency. The vaccination drive that started in December 2020 played a crucial role in controlling the pandemic. However, the pace at which COVID-19 vaccines were developed and deployed for general population use led to vaccine hesitancy, largely owing to concerns regarding the safety and efficacy of the vaccines. Radiology has been instrumental in demonstrating the extent of pulmonary involvement and identification of the complications of COVID-19, and the same holds true for vaccine-related complications. This review summarizes the existing body of radiological literature regarding the efficacy, adverse events, and imaging pitfalls that accompany the global rollout of various COVID-19 vaccines.
Plastic-Free Brand Choices as a Holistic Approach to Self-Care: A Netnographic Analysis of Young Consumers’ Motivations
Authors: Beccanulli Angela A. , Biraghi Silvia
Published: April 2024

Young consumers are increasingly taking on the mantle of champions for sustainable behavior. However, notwithstanding the long-established and rich debate on sustainable consumption, studies are missing that delve deeper on how young consumers, especially Millennials and Gen Z, dialogically frame their sustainable consumption choices and their favor for sustainable brands. We conduct an in-depth netnographic investigation that provides a deep cultural understanding of the motivations and priorities that young consumers associate with sustainable choices in their social media conversations, which represent the most common ground where sustainable commitments are discussed. Considering that plastic-free refillable water bottles are emerging as the daily consumption choice that young consumers are adopting to pursue a more sustainable lifestyle, we see in that a compelling research context in which the motivations that young consumers prioritize when they embrace plastic-free brands can be explored. Our findings visually map and dig deeper into the complex constellation of the dominant themes and interplays among them that young consumers discuss in their conversations about the adoption of plastic-free refillable water bottles. Across all the conversations we analyzed, the notion of care emerges as the key priority for young consumers and sustainable consumption is depicted as a holistic form of self-care. Our paper contributes to delve deeper into those conversational dynamics in and through which the priorities related to sustainable consumption choices are shaped and constructed through the expressive and material capacities of the different social formations that are engaged into the discussion of sustainability issues. Our paper also provides a methodological blueprint for the investigation of the dialogic process of sustainable brand building.
p53 immunohistochemistry as an ancillary tool for rapid assessment of residual disease in TP53-mutated acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndromes
Authors: Brar Nivaz , Lawrence Lauren , Fung Eula , Zehnder James L , Greenberg Peter L , Mannis Gabriel N , Zhang Tian Y , Gratzinger Dita , Oak Jean , Silva Oscar , Kurzer Jason , Tan Brent , Menke Joshua R , Fernandez-Pol Sebastian
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Measurable residual disease flow cytometry (MRD-FC) and molecular studies are the most sensitive methods for detecting residual malignant populations after therapy for TP53-mutated acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic neoplasms (TP53+ AML/MDS). However, their sensitivity is limited in suboptimal aspirates or when the immunophenotype of the neoplastic blasts overlaps with erythroids or normal maturing myeloid cells. In this study, we set out to determine if p53 immunohistochemistry (IHC) correlates with MRD-FC and next-generation sequencing (NGS) in the posttherapy setting and to determine the utility of p53 IHC to detect residual disease in the setting of negative or equivocal MRD-FC.

Methods

We retrospectively identified 28 pre- and posttherapy bone marrow biopsy specimens from 9 patients with TP53+ AML/MDS and a p53 overexpressor phenotype by IHC (strong 3+ staining at initial diagnosis). Next-generation sequencing and/or MRD-FC results were collected for each specimen.

Results

Using a threshold of more than ten 2-3+ cells in any one 400× field, p53 IHC detected residual disease with a sensitivity of 94% and a specificity of 89%. The threshold used in this study showed a high degree of concordance among 6 blinded pathologists (Fleiss κ = 0.97).

Conclusions

Our study suggests that p53 IHC can be used as a rapid tool (within 24 hours) to aid in the detection of residual disease that may complement MRD-FC or NGS in cases in which the flow cytometry immunophenotype is equivocal and/or the bone marrow aspirate is suboptimal.
Introducing/Testing New SFL-Inspired Communication/Content/Function-Focused Measures for Assessing L2 Narrative Task Performance
Authors: Qin Jie , Liu Dilin
Published: April 2024

In response to calls for an assessment tool that provides a separate performance dimension from the linguistic quality-oriented measures of complexity, accuracy, and fluency (CAF) and guided by systemic functional linguistic (SFL) theories, this study introduces a set of fine-grained objective measures of communication/content/function (CCF)-related performance in second language (L2) narratives and empirically tests the validity of these measures using vigorous research procedures and statistical tests. The test results show that these CCF measures assessed their intended SFL functional dimensions, in contrast to the key CAF measures that evaluated mainly linguistic dimensions of narrative performance. More specifically, these CCF measures offered an objective evaluation of the communication/content quality of narrative task performance as evaluated by the subjective functional adequacy scales, while the key CAF measures provided an objective assessment of the linguistic quality of task performance as measured by the largely subjective International English Language Testing System (IELTS) scales. The study also discusses the implications of the results for making the assessment of L2 task performance more accurate and comprehensive.
An attentional and working memory theory of hallucination vulnerability in frontotemporal dementia
Authors: Devenney Emma M , Tse Nga Yan , O’Callaghan Claire , Kumfor Fiona , Ahmed Rebekah M , Caga Jashelle , Hazelton Jessica L , Carrick James , Halliday Glenda M , Piguet Olivier , Kiernan Matthew C , Hodges John R
Published: April 2024

The rate and prevalence of hallucinations in behavioural variant frontotemporal dementia is well established. The mechanisms for underlying vulnerability however are the least well described in FTD compared with other neuropsychiatric conditions, despite the presence of these features significantly complicating the diagnostic process. As such, this present study aimed to provide a detailed characterization of the neural, cognitive and behavioural profile associated with a predisposition to hallucinatory experiences in behavioural variant frontotemporal dementia. In total, 153 patients with behavioural variant frontotemporal dementia were recruited sequentially for this study. A group of patients with well characterized hallucinations and good-quality volumetric MRI scans (n = 23) were genetically and demographically matched to a group without hallucinations (n = 23) and a healthy control cohort (n = 23). All patients were assessed at their initial visit by means of a detailed clinical interview, a comprehensive battery of neuropsychological tests and MRI. Data were analysed according to three levels: (i) the relationship between neural structures, cognition, behaviour and hallucinations in behavioural variant frontotemporal dementia; (ii) the impact of the C9orf72 expansion; and (iii) hallucination subtype on expression of hallucinations. Basic and complex attentional (including divided attention and working memory) and visual function measures differed between groups (all P < 0.001) with hallucinators demonstrating poorer performance, along with evidence of structural changes centred on the prefrontal cortex, caudate and cerebellum (corrected for False Discovery Rate at P < 0.05 with a cluster threshold of 100 contiguous voxels). Attentional processes were also implicated in C9orf72 carriers with hallucinations with structural changes selectively involving the thalamus. Patients with visual hallucinations in isolation showed a similar pattern with emphasis on cerebellar atrophy. Our findings provided novel insights that attentional and visual function subsystems and related distributed brain structures are implicated in the generation of hallucinations in behavioural variant frontotemporal dementia, that dissociate across C9orf72, sporadic behavioural variant frontotemporal dementia and for the visual subtype of hallucinations. This loading on attentional and working memory measures is in line with current mechanistic models of hallucinations that frequently suggest a failure of integration of cognitive and perceptual processes. We therefore propose a novel cognitive and neural model for hallucination predisposition in behavioural variant frontotemporal dementia that aligns with a transdiagnostic model for hallucinations across neurodegeneration and psychiatry.
Development and Validation of Fast and Sensitive RP-HPLC Stability-Indicating Method for Quantification of Piroxicam in Bulk Drug
Authors: Chauhan Vikas , Grover Parul , Bhardwaj Monika , Kumar Sandeep , Nagarajan K
Published: April 2024

A simple, rapid, sensitive, and cost-effective green solvent-assisted reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatographic technique, coupled with a photodiode array detector, was developed and validated for the estimation of piroxicam (PRXM). The chromatographic separation was achieved by using a C-18 (250 × 4.6) mm, 5-μm stationary phase and a mobile phase consisting of methanol and 0.1% ortho-phosphoric acid in water in a ratio of (80:20) v/v at a flow rate of 1 ml/min. The detection was carried out at a wavelength of 254 nm with a constant injection volume of 10 μL throughout the analysis. The calibration curve was observed to be linear over the optimum concentration range of 50–300 μg mL−1, with an R2 value of 0.9995. The developed method was validated as per the International Council for Harmonisation (ICH) Q2 (R1) guideline. Various parameters like selectivity/specificity, accuracy/recovery, linearity, precision, detection limit, quantitation limit, robustness and stability of analyte in solution were performed for the method validation. The PRXM was evaluated under stressed conditions, including acidic, basic, oxidative, thermal and photolytic, as per ICH Q1 (R2) guidelines. Significant degradation was observed in acidic and basic degradation conditions. Conversely, the drug substance showed stability when exposed to oxidative, photolytic and thermal degradation conditions.
Safety and Immunogenicity of Accelerated Heterologous 2-Dose Ebola Vaccine Regimens in Adults With and Without Human Immunodeficiency Virus in Africa
Authors: Mwesigwa Betty , Sawe Fredrick , Oyieko Janet , Mwakisisile Joel , Viegas Edna , Akintunde Gideon Akindiran , Kosgei Josphat , Kokogho Afoke , Ntinginya Nyanda , Jani Ilesh , Shukarev Georgi , Hooper Jay W , Kwilas Steven A , Ward Lucy A , Rusnak Janice , Bounds Callie , Overman Rachel , Badorrek Christopher S , Eller Leigh Anne , Eller Michael A , Polyak Christina S , Moodley Amber , Tran Chi L , Costanzo Margaret C , Leggat David J , Paquin-Proulx Dominic , Naluyima Prossy , Anumendem Dickson Nkafu , Gaddah Auguste , Luhn Kerstin , Hendriks Jenny , McLean Chelsea , Douoguih Macaya , Kibuuka Hannah , Robb Merlin L , Robinson Cynthia , Ake Julie A
Published: April 2024

Background

Shorter prophylactic vaccine schedules may offer more rapid protection against Ebola in resource-limited settings.

Methods

This randomized, observer-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 2 trial conducted in 5 sub-Saharan African countries included people without human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (PWOH, n = 249) and people with HIV (PWH, n = 250). Adult participants received 1 of 2 accelerated Ebola vaccine regimens (MVA-BN-Filo, Ad26.ZEBOV administered 14 days apart [n = 79] or Ad26.ZEBOV, MVA-BN-Filo administered 28 days apart [n = 322]) or saline/placebo (n = 98). The primary endpoints were safety (adverse events [AEs]) and immunogenicity (Ebola virus [EBOV] glycoprotein–specific binding antibody responses). Binding antibody responders were defined as participants with a >2.5-fold increase from baseline or the lower limit of quantification if negative at baseline.

Results

The mean age was 33.4 years, 52% of participants were female, and among PWH, the median CD4+ cell count was 560.0 (interquartile range, 418.0–752.0) cells/μL. AEs were generally mild/moderate with no vaccine-related serious AEs or remarkable safety profile differences by HIV status. At 21 days post–dose 2, EBOV glycoprotein–specific binding antibody response rates in vaccine recipients were 99% for the 14-day regimen (geometric mean concentrations [GMCs]: 5168 enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay units [EU]/mL in PWOH; 2509 EU/mL in PWH) and 98% for the 28-day regimen (GMCs: 6037 EU/mL in PWOH; 2939 EU/mL in PWH). At 12 months post–dose 2, GMCs in PWOH and PWH were 635 and 514 EU/mL, respectively, for the 14-day regimen and 331 and 360 EU/mL, respectively, for the 28-day regimen.

Conclusions

Accelerated 14- and 28-day Ebola vaccine regimens were safe and immunogenic in PWOH and PWH in Africa.

Clinical Trials Registration. NCT02598388.
NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated premature immunosenescence drives diabetic vascular aging dependent on the induction of perivascular adipose tissue dysfunction
Authors: Tai Guang-Jie , Ma Yan-Jie , Feng Jun-Lin , Li Jia-Peng , Qiu Shu , Yu Qing-Qing , Liu Ren-Hua , Wankumbu Silumbwe Ceaser , Wang Xin , Li Xiao-Xue , Xu Ming
Published: April 2024

Aims

The vascular aging process accelerated by type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is responsible for the elevated risk of associated cardiovascular diseases. Metabolic disorder-induced immune senescence has been implicated in multi-organ/tissue damage. Herein, we sought to determine the role of immunosenescence in diabetic vascular aging and to investigate the underlying mechanisms.

Methods and results

Aging hallmarks of the immune system appear prior to the vasculature in streptozotocin (STZ)/high-fat diet (HFD)-induced T2DM mice or db/db mice. Transplantation of aged splenocytes or diabetic splenocytes into young mice triggered vascular senescence and injury compared with normal control splenocyte transfer. RNA sequencing profile and validation in immune tissues revealed that the toll-like receptor 4–nuclear factor-kappa B–NLRP3 axis might be the mediator of diabetic premature immunosenescence. The absence of Nlrp3 attenuated immune senescence and vascular aging during T2DM. Importantly, senescent immune cells, particularly T cells, provoked perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) dysfunction and alternations in its secretome, which in turn impair vascular biology. In addition, senescent immune cells may uniquely affect vasoconstriction via influencing PVAT. Lastly, rapamycin alleviated diabetic immune senescence and vascular aging, which may be partly due to NLRP3 signalling inhibition.

Conclusion

These results indicated that NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated immunosenescence precedes and drives diabetic vascular aging. The contribution of senescent immune cells to vascular aging is a combined effect of their direct effects and induction of PVAT dysfunction, the latter of which can uniquely affect vasoconstriction. We further demonstrated that infiltration of senescent T cells in PVAT was increased and associated with PVAT secretome alterations. Our findings suggest that blocking the NLRP3 pathway may prevent early immunosenescence and thus mitigate diabetic vascular aging and damage, and targeting senescent T cells or PVAT might also be the potential therapeutic approach.
When does antimicrobial resistance increase bacterial fitness? Effects of dosing, social interactions, and frequency dependence on the benefits of AmpC β-lactamases in broth, biofilms, and a gut infection model
Authors: Penkova Elitsa , Raymond Ben
Published: April 2024

One of the longstanding puzzles of antimicrobial resistance is why the frequency of resistance persists at intermediate levels. Theoretical explanations for the lack of fixation of resistance include cryptic costs of resistance or negative frequency-dependence but are seldom explored experimentally. β-lactamases, which detoxify penicillin-related antibiotics, have well-characterized frequency-dependent dynamics driven by cheating and cooperation. However, bacterial physiology determines whether β-lactamases are cooperative, and we know little about the sociality or fitness of β-lactamase producers in infections. Moreover, media-based experiments constrain how we measure fitness and ignore important parameters such as infectivity and transmission among hosts. Here, we investigated the fitness effects of broad-spectrum AmpC β-lactamases in Enterobacter cloacae in broth, biofilms, and gut infections in a model insect. We quantified frequency- and dose-dependent fitness using cefotaxime, a third-generation cephalosporin. We predicted that infection dynamics would be similar to those observed in biofilms, with social protection extending over a wide dose range. We found evidence for the sociality of β-lactamases in all contexts with negative frequency-dependent selection, ensuring the persistence of wild-type bacteria, although cooperation was less prevalent in biofilms, contrary to predictions. While competitive fitness in gut infections and broth had similar dynamics, incorporating infectivity into measurements of fitness in infections significantly affected conclusions. Resistant bacteria had reduced infectivity, which limited the fitness benefits of resistance to infections challenged with low antibiotic doses and low initial frequencies of resistance. The fitness of resistant bacteria in more physiologically tolerant states (in biofilms, in infections) could be constrained by the presence of wild-type bacteria, high antibiotic doses, and limited availability of β-lactamases. One conclusion is that increased tolerance of β-lactams does not necessarily increase selection pressure for resistance. Overall, both cryptic fitness costs and frequency dependence curtailed the fitness benefits of resistance in this study.
Local adaptation and reproductive isolation: when does speciation start?
Authors: Butlin Roger K , Faria Rui
Published: April 2024

The speciation process often takes a long time. The speciation continuum framework has been useful to reconstruct the evolutionary processes that result in the formation of new species but defining when this continuum starts is far from trivial. Although a panmictic population is often considered the initial condition of speciation, this is unrealistic for almost all species. Local or divergent adaptation are viewed by many researchers as processes that shape intraspecific diversity and thus are not part of speciation. We propose that speciation starts when reproductive isolation becomes greater than zero, arguing in favour of the alternative view that local adaptation necessarily involves some reproductive isolation, independently of whether it results in the completion of speciation. Given that local adaptation is widespread, the consequence is that most species are constantly in the process of speciating. The process of speciation is best represented as the formation of separate subnetworks, defined by reproductive isolation, within extended and fluid spatial networks of populations.