bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract B069: ACCESS: Advancing childhood cancer experience, science and survivorship in Canada
Authors: Grover Stephanie A. , Williams Christine J. , Co-Dyre Adrienne , Malkin David , Whitlock James A. , ACCESS consortium on behalf of the
Published: September 2024

In Canada, roughly 1,500 children and adolescents are diagnosed with cancer each year. Advocacy for enhanced childhood cancer research and care in Canada by patients, families and the academic community led to a $23M investment through the Canadian Institutes of Health Research to establish a national pediatric cancer consortium (termed ‘ACCESS’). ACCESS’ mission is to ensure every child with cancer in Canada has access to the latest scientific advances, diagnostic tools, therapies, and supportive care leading to better outcomes and quality of life. ACCESS is a unique collective of scientists, healthcare providers, industry leaders, partner organizations, advocates, patients, and their families who are conducting research, changing policy, and developing new tools to ensure better lives for children who experience cancer in Canada and for their loved ones.

The goal is to implement transformative change in the delivery of fair, fast, effective, and safe cancer care for all children. ACCESS is driven and led by people with lived experience of pediatric cancer and framed by the patient journey. In its first year, ACCESS has unified a national community. It has: connected a community of more than 700 people and stimulated a culture of open communication in which diverse viewpoints, including those of people with lived experience of cancer, are sought and valued; built productive and effective partnerships to connect and leverage the work of organizations working to improve childhood cancer; initiated 20 new innovative pan-Canadian research studies that impact all aspects of the patient journey, including new Canadian-led clinical trials; developed an educational hub for all ACCESS members, and produced accessible communications materials such as webinars, a newsletter and a comprehensive website; developed national best practice standards and tools for research and care; started to address the complex policy, regulatory and practical barriers that prevent equitable access to cancer diagnosis and treatment for all children in Canada.Future priorities include development of a national data system for pediatric cancer, modernizing pediatric clinical trials to reduce barriers to participation in Canada, and the development of a national strategy for pediatric cancer.

Citation Format: Stephanie A. Grover, Christine J. Williams, Adrienne Co-Dyre, David Malkin, James A. Whitlock, on behalf of the ACCESS consortium. ACCESS: Advancing childhood cancer experience, science and survivorship in Canada [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference in Cancer Research: Advances in Pediatric Cancer Research; 2024 Sep 5-8; Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(17 Suppl):Abstract nr B069.
Figure 4 from Inferring Characteristics of the Tumor Immune Microenvironment of Patients with HNSCC from Single-Cell Transcriptomics of Peripheral Blood
Authors: Cao Yingying , Chang Tiangen , Schischlik Fiorella , Wang Kun , Sinha Sanju , Hannenhalli Sridhar , Jiang Peng , Ruppin Eytan
Published: September 2024

Exhausted T-cell signature in the TME can be inferred from the blood and the inferred exhausted T-cell score can further predict immunotherapy response in HNSCC. A, Correlation between the predicted and the measured exhausted T-cell signature scores in TME in the matched blood/tumor training dataset (n = 25) and validation dataset (n = 5). B, ROC curve for predicting ICB RECIST response (n = 16) and pathologic response (n = 26) by the predicted exhausted T-cell signature scores. C, OS and PFS analyses of ICB-treated patients in exhausted-high (exhausted score > quantile 50%) vs. exhausted-low (exhausted score ≤ quantile 50%) tumor groups using the predicted exhausted T-cell signature scores. D–F are the same as A–C, respectively, except that the predicted exhausted T-cell signature scores in the TME are replaced by the measured exhausted T-cell signature scores in the blood. r, Pearson correlation coefficient; ρ, Spearman correlation coefficient. FPR, false-positive rate; TPR, true-positive rate.
Figure 2 from Inferring Characteristics of the Tumor Immune Microenvironment of Patients with HNSCC from Single-Cell Transcriptomics of Peripheral Blood
Authors: Cao Yingying , Chang Tiangen , Schischlik Fiorella , Wang Kun , Sinha Sanju , Hannenhalli Sridhar , Jiang Peng , Ruppin Eytan
Published: September 2024

The ICFs of major immune cell types in the TME can be predicted from the blood. A, Correlation matrix of ICFs between the TME and the blood. For immune cell types in the TME (columns), the cell types in the blood (rows) with the highest correlations are marked in black boxes. Pearson correlation values shown are mean ± SD over 1,000-replicate bootstrapping. B, Distribution of correlations between the model-predicted ICFs and the true TME ICFs are shown on the test sets across 1,000 replicates. C, Correlation between the model-predicted TME ICF and the measured TME ICF for each cell type on a small, independent validation dataset (n = 5). Cycling T cells are not studied as they are not present in all tumor tissue samples; monocytes and DC are excluded as their pertaining predictive clinical information is missing. r denotes the Pearson correlation coefficient, and ρ denotes the Spearman correlation coefficient. Statistical notation: ***, FDR < 0.001; **, FDR < 0.01; *, FDR < 0.05. FDRs are calculated using Benjamini–Hochberg correction. Alc., alcohol; info., information; Tob., tobacco.
Supplementary Figure 2 from Phase I Study of Simlukafusp Alfa (FAP-IL2v) with or without Atezolizumab in Japanese Patients with Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Koyama Takafumi , Yonemori Kan , Shimizu Toshio , Sato Jun , Kondo Shunsuke , Sudo Kazuki , Yoshida Tatsuya , Katsuya Yuki , Imaizumi Tatsuki , Enomoto Masashi , Seki Ryoko , Yamamoto Noboru
Published: September 2024

Figure S2 shows the study progression and dose steps.
Identification of Renal Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury Subtypes and Predictive Model for Graft Loss after Kidney Transplantation Based on Programmed Cell Death-Related Genes
Authors: Ji Jing , Ma Yuan , Liu Xintong , Zhou Qingqing , Zheng Xizi , Chen Ying , Li Zehua , Yang Li
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is detrimental to kidney transplants and may contribute to poor long-term outcomes of transplantation. Programmed cell death (PCD), a regulated cell death form triggered by IRI, is often indicative of an unfavorable prognosis following transplantation. However, given the intricate pathophysiology of IRI and the considerable variability in clinical conditions during kidney transplantation, the specific patterns of cell death within renal tissues remain ambiguous. Consequently, accurately predicting the outcomes for transplanted kidneys continues to be a formidable challenge. Methods: Eight Gene Expression Omnibus datasets of biopsied transplanted kidney samples post-IRI and 1,548 PCD-related genes derived from 18 PCD patterns were collected in our study. Consensus clustering was performed to identify distinct IRI subtypes based on PCD features (IRI PCD subtypes). Differential enrichment analysis of cell death, metabolic signatures, and immune infiltration across these subtypes was evaluated. Three machine learning algorithms were used to identify PCD patterns related to prognosis. Genes associated with graft loss were screened for each PCD type. A predictive model for graft loss was constructed using 101 combinations of 10 machine learning algorithms. Results: Four IRI subtypes were identified: PCD-A, PCD-B, PCD-C, and PCD-D. PCD-A, characterized by high enrichment of multiple cell death patterns, significant metabolic paralysis, and immune infiltration, showed the poorest prognosis among the four subtypes. While PCD-D involved the least kind of cell death patterns with the features of extensive activation of metabolic pathways and the lowest immune infiltration, correlating with the best prognosis in the four subtypes. Using various machine learning algorithms, 10 cell death patterns and 42 PCD-related genes were identified as positively correlated with graft loss. The predictive model demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity, with area under the curve values for 0.5-, 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-year graft survival at 0.888, 0.91, 0.926, 0.923, and 0.923, respectively. Conclusion: Our study explored the comprehensive features of PCD patterns in transplanted kidney samples post-IRI. The prediction model shows great promise in forecasting graft loss and could aid in risk stratification in patients following kidney transplantation.
What Is “Advanced” Parkinson’s Disease? Defining What Determines Medicare Coverage for Deep Brain Stimulation in the USA
Authors: Ponce Francisco A. , Shill Holly A.
Published: September 2024

Background: The National Coverage Determination (NCD) by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for deep brain stimulation requires that a patient have “advanced idiopathic Parkinson’s disease (PD) as determined by Hoehn and Yahr (HY) stage or the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale part III motor subscale (UPDRS III).” How to apply the HY or UPDRS III scales to define “advanced” PD is unclear. Summary: There is an ongoing recovery audit by the CMS of deep brain stimulation cases that were covered by Medicare but are deemed not to have met the NCD requirements and therefore not to have been medically necessary. Whether a hospital is asked to refund Medicare often hinges upon whether medical documentation supports the diagnosis of advanced PD. However, neither the HY nor the UPDRS III scales use “advanced” to define or describe stages of PD. The NCD has an accompanying National Coverage Analysis that reviews the studies that inform the NCD. These studies use “advanced” as well as the HY and UPDRS III scales. This review identifies how the HY and UPDRS III scales were used to categorize advanced PD in the studies that were cited in the National Coverage Analysis. Key Messages: In the studies used for the NCD for deep brain stimulation for PD, an HY score ≥3 or a UPDRS III score ≥30 was used to describe patient cohorts considered to have advanced PD.
Description of Baseline Quality of Life in Patients Diagnosed with Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Lendínez-Cano Guillermo , Congregado Ruíz Carmen Belén , Gómez Luque Miguel Ángel , Medina López Rafael Antonio
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Renal cancer (RC) is not typically symptomatic until it reaches a considerable size and an advanced stage [World J Oncol. 2020;11(3):79–87]. The 5-year survival rate for metastatic renal cancer (mRC) is estimated at 13% [CA Cancer J Clin. 2021;71(1):7–33]. Health-related quality of life (HRQoL), obtained as patient-reported outcomes (PRO), reflects the patient’s subjective perception of the disease and treatment impact on their normal activity and well-being [Lancet Oncol. 2016;17(11):e510–4]. Measuring HRQoL can facilitate doctor-patient communication, aid in decision-making, and improve clinical outcomes [Eur Urol Focus. 2020;6(1):26–30]. We will analyse the baseline quality of life of patients diagnosed with mRC, who are candidates for systemic treatment, in our setting, as measured by responses to the NCCN-FKSI 19 questionnaire. Methods: We analysed 78 consecutive patients diagnosed and treated for mRC from September 2012 to September 2019. We described the baseline questionnaire responses of our patients before initiating systemic treatment and analysed their responses. Results: Over 60% of the patients reported some degree of lack of energy or fatigue, 60.8% were very or extremely worried about their disease worsening, and 47.9% had some issues related to rest. Additionally, 26.8% of the patients were not at all satisfied with their quality of life at that time. Conclusions: Patients diagnosed with mRC exhibit deterioration in their quality of life, mostly showing asthenia and concern about their disease. The quality of life of “real-life patients” seems to be worse than that of those included in clinical trials.
Association between Urinary Flora and Urinary Stones
Authors: Qiao Sihang , Yang Jianwei , Yang Li
Published: September 2024

Background: Urinary system stones are a common clinical disease, with significant differences in incidence and recurrence rates between different countries and regions. The etiology and pathogenesis of urinary system stones have not been fully elucidated, but many studies have found that some bacteria and fungi that are difficult to detect in urine constitute a unique urinary microbiome. This special urinary microbiome is closely related to the occurrence and development of urinary system stones. By analyzing the urinary microbiome and its metabolic products, early diagnosis and treatment of urinary system stones can be carried out. Summary: This article reviews the relationship between the urinary microbiome and urinary system stones, discusses the impact of the microbiome on the formation of urinary system stones and its potential therapeutic value, with the aim of providing a reference for the early diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of urinary system stones. Key Messages: (i) Urinary stones are a common and recurrent disease, and there is no good way to prevent them. (ii) With advances in testing technology, studies have found that healthy human urine also contains various types of bacteria. (iii) Is there a potential connection between the urinary microbiota and urinary stones, and if so, can understanding these connections offer fresh perspectives and strategies for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of urinary stones?
Endovascular Treatment for Transplant Renal Artery Stenosis: 10 Years’ Experience from a Single Center
Authors: Pu Xibin , Wang Bing , Pan Jun , Yu Xinyu , Dai Wei , He Yangyan
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Transplant renal artery stenosis (TRAS) is a common post-renal transplant complication. Although endovascular treatment is widely used to treat TRAS, previous research has been limited by small sample sizes. This article aimed to present the clinical outcomes of endovascular treatment for TRAS in a large sample. Methods: Between January 2010 and December 2019, this study included patients with TRAS who were admitted to our center. All patients’ clinical symptoms, comorbidities, imaging data, treatment, and follow-up results were reviewed retrospectively. Results: Seventy two patients participated in this study. The median time between renal transplantation and TRAS was 5.25 months. Out of 72 patients, 55 (76.4%) received balloon dilatation in conjunction with stent deployment, 10 (13.9%) received drug-coated balloon dilatation alone, and 7 (9.7%) received balloon dilatation alone. The median follow-up period was 27 months. Primary patency rates were 100%, 81.8%, 74.5%, 64.6%, and 61.8% at 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months. A total of 23 patients were found to have restenosis during follow-up, with 6 (26.1%) requiring reintervention and none remaining restenosis after the second treatment. In the subgroup analysis of the three types of stenosis, patients with transplant renal stenosis at the anastomosis had a significantly higher rate of primary patency. Between endovascular treatments, the primary patency rate, postoperative creatinine clearance, and mean systolic blood pressure did not differ significantly. Conclusion: Endovascular treatment resulted in favorable short-term patency as well as effective relief of renal dysfunction and renal hypertension in TRAS patients.
Arzneimittelzulassung zur Behandlung der geografischen Atrophie: Wie wir dorthin kamen, wo wir heute stehen, und welchen Weg wir nun einschlagen müssen,
Authors: Csaky Karl G. , Miller Jason M. L. , Martin Daniel F. , Johnson Mark W.
Published: September 2024

Zweck: Diskussion der Ergebnisse von klinischen Studien, die zur FDA-Zulassung von Anti-Komplement-Therapien der geografischen Atrophie (GA) geführt haben, sowie der Perspektiven auf funktionale Daten aus klinischen GA-Studien und der Lehren aus der FDA-Zulassung, die für die künftige Grundlagen- und klinische Forschung zur AMD richtungsweisend sein können. Design: Übersicht über die ausgewählte Literatur mit Analyse und Perspektive. Methoden: Wir haben eine gezielte Überprüfung veröffentlichter Daten aus klinischen Studien zu Pegcetacoplan und Avacincaptad zur Behandlung von GA durchgeführt sowie der wissenschaftlichen Literatur zum Verlauf der GA, zur Genetik und zur Grundlagenforschung des Komplementsystems bei AMD. Ergebnisse: Die Zulassung von Pegcetacoplan und Avacincaptad basierte auf dem anatomischen Endpunkt einer Verringerung der GA-Ausbreitungsrate im Zeitverlauf. Funktionale Daten aus 2 klinischen Phase-3-Studien für jedes Medikament zeigten jedoch, dass sich für die Patienten in den Behandlungsgruppen kein visueller Vorteil ergab. Eine Betrachtung der Genetik der AMD und der grundlegenden wissenschaftlichen Erkenntnisse zur Rolle des Komplementsystems bei der AMD liefert nur mäßige Belege für die gezielte Verwendung des Komplementsystems als Behandlungsmethode gegen die GA-Ausbreitung. Daher werden alternative molekulare Ziele für die GA-Behandlung diskutiert. Gründe für die Diskrepanz zwischen den anatomischen und funktionalen Ergebnissen in den klinischen Studien zu Anti-Komplement-Therapien werden erörtert; diese geben einen Einblick in den möglichen Aufbau künftiger klinischer Studien zur GA. Schlussfolgerung: Während es sich bei Avacincaptad und Pegcetacoplan um die ersten verfügbaren, von der FDA zugelassenen Behandlungsformen der GA handelt, zeigte sich in den Ergebnissen der klinischen Studien nach 1 bzw. 2 Jahren keine funktionale Verbesserung, was die Frage aufwirft, ob die Medikamente tatsächlich einen «klinisch relevanten Outcome» liefern. Um die Chancen auf wirksamere Therapien in der Zukunft zu verbessern, i) liefern wir die wissenschaftlichen Grundlagen für die Verfolgung nicht komplementbezogener Ziele, ii) betonen wir die Bedeutung laufender klinischer Forschung, die die anatomischen Merkmale der GA genauer mit funktionellen Ergebnissen verknüpft, und iii) machen Vorschläge für klinische Endpunkte künftiger klinischer Studien zur GA.
Conversion Rates, Causes, and Preoperative Associated Factors in 3,411 Laparoscopic Appendectomies: Insights after Nearly Three Decades of Laparoscopy and an Analysis of the Learning Curve
Authors: Aragone Lucía , Arrechea Ramiro , Toffolo Mariana , Nardi Walter , Pirchi Daniel
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Laparoscopic appendectomy is the current gold standard in treating acute appendicitis. Despite the low frequency of conversion to open surgery, it remains necessary in certain cases. Our primary outcome was to identify the conversion rate of laparoscopic appendectomy to open surgery and how this rate has changed over the learning curve. Second, we aim to determine the causes of conversion, their changes in frequency over time and to identify preoperative factors associated with conversion. Methods: A retrospective comparative study with prospective case registry was conducted. All patients who underwent laparoscopic appendectomy from January 2000 to December 2023 at a high-volume center were analyzed. The series was divided into six periods, each spanning 4 years. All patients who underwent totally laparoscopic appendectomy and those requiring conversion to open appendectomy were included. Results: A total of 3,411 appendectomies were performed during the study period, with an overall conversion rate of 0.96% (33/3,411). Our analysis showed that after the first three periods (12 years), the conversion rate decreased and reached a plateau of approximately 0.4%. The most common causes of conversion were perforation of the appendix base (9/33), abdominal cavity adhesions (8/33), and pneumoperitoneum intolerance (3/33). Age over 65, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score III/IV and symptom duration exceeding 24 h were preoperative factors significantly associated with conversion at univariate analysis. However, only age (p 0.0001) and symptoms exceeding 24 h (p 0.01) remained independently associated with conversion after multivariate analysis. Conclusion: In experienced centers, conversion from laparoscopic appendectomy to open appendectomy is uncommon, but remains necessary in certain cases. Despite identifying a population with higher association with conversion which should be advised preoperatively, due to the low incidence of conversions once the learning curve is overcome, an initial laparoscopic approach is the preferred choice.
Selection of the Most Suitable Culture Medium for Patient-Derived Lung Cancer Organoids
Authors: Acosta-Plasencia Melissa , He Yangyi , Martínez Daniel , Orozco Juan Pablo , Carrasco Antonio , Altuna-Coy Antonio , Yang Tianmiao , Díaz Tania , Molins Laureano , Ramos Ricard , Marrades Ramón M. , Navarro Alfons
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Patient-derived organoids have emerged as a promising in vitro model for precision medicine, particularly in cancer, but also in noncancer-related diseases. However, the optimal culture medium for culturing patient-derived lung organoids has not yet been agreed upon. This study aimed to shed light on the optimal selection of a culture media for developing studies using patient-derived lung organoids. Methods: Tumor and normal paired tissue from 71 resected non-small cell lung cancer patients were processed for organoid culture. Lung cancer organoids (LCOs) were derived from tumor tissue and normal lung organoids (LNOs) from nonneoplastic lung tissue. Three different culture media were compared: permissive culture medium (PCM), limited culture medium (LCM), and minimum basal medium (MBM). We assessed their effectiveness in establishing organoid cultures, promoting organoid growth and viability, and compared their differential phenotypic characteristics. Results: While PCM was associated with the highest success rate and useful for long-term expansion, MBM was the best option to avoid normal organoid overgrowth in the organoid culture. The density, size, and viability of LNOs were reduced using LCM and severely affected with MBM. LNOs cultured in PCM tend to differentiate to bronchospheres, while alveolosphere differentiation can be observed in those cultured with LCM. The morphological phenotype of LCO was influenced by the culture media of election. Mesenchymal cell overgrowth was observed when LCM was used. Conclusion: This work highlights the importance of considering the research objectives when selecting the most suitable culture medium for growing patient-derived lung organoids.
Exploring insect meals as novel sources of vitamin D: evaluation of vitamin D precursors, biofortification by UV-B exposure, and in vivo efficacy
Authors: Grundmann S.M. , Jerathe S.D. , Pfeiffer J. , Most E. , Klüber P. , Rühl M. , Eder K.
Published: September 2024

Vitamin D deficiency is a global problem due to limited dietary sources, necessitating the exploration of alternative sources. The objective of this study was to investigate the suitability of UV-B-exposed insect meals as a source of vitamin D. First, two insect meals from Hermetia illucens and Tenebrio molitor larvae were analysed for their concentrations of vitamin D2, D3 and their precursors ergosterol and 7-dehydrocholesterol (7-DHC). Second, the insect meals were exposed to UV-B light to stimulate the synthesis of vitamin D from the precursors. Finally, to determine the efficacy of insect meal-derived vitamin D in contributing to an adequate vitamin D status, UV-B-exposed insect meals were fed to rats for 4 weeks in comparison to pure vitamin D2 or D3. H. illucens meal had a high concentration of ergosterol, whereas T. molitor meal had a high concentration of 7-DHC. H. illucens meal contained vitamin D3 (0.302 μg/g), whereas in T. molitor neither vitamin D2 nor D3 was detectable. UV-B exposure resulted in a significant enrichment of vitamin D2 in H. illucens meal and of vitamin D3 in T. molitor meal, depending on spreading density and the exposure time. Concentrations of up to 13.8 μg vitamin D2 per g and 34.4 μg vitamin D3 per g in H. illucens and T. molitor meal, respectively, were achieved under optimum exposure conditions. The rat study showed that feeding UV-B-exposed insect meals was successful in increasing serum 25(OH)D concentrations. Serum 25(OH)D concentrations were even higher in rats fed UV-B-exposed insect meals than in rats fed pure vitamin D2 or D3. In conclusion, meals from H. illucens or T. molitor contain high amounts of vitamin D precursors which can be converted to vitamin D by UV-B exposure. Thus, UV-B-exposed insect meals could be considered as novel sources of vitamin D for human and animal nutrition.
More In-Depth Analysis Needed
Authors: van den Brink Gijsbert
Published: September 2024

In his Understanding the Christianity-Evolution Relationship, Michael Ruse puts old wine in new skins. In an original and illuminating way, he approaches his topic from the perspective of the age-old divide between mechanistic and organicist ways of thinking. Yet, this does not bring him to new conclusions as compared to his earlier work on the topic. In response, I argue that a more rigorous conceptual and doctrinal analysis is needed to sort out whether Darwinian evolution makes God redundant or whether it actually accords more with theism than with naturalism.
Estimating Fiscal Multipliers for States in India
Authors: Koley Madhurima , Mandal Kumarjit
Published: September 2024

We estimate state-level fiscal multipliers for Indian states using a panel data set of 17 non-special and 10 special category states covering the period 2001–02 to 2016–17. The impacts of shocks to states’ own tax revenue, revenue expenditure, capital expenditure and grants from centre on income are measured employing panel vector autogressive technique of estimation. We find the effect of shocks to fiscal variable on income is greater in the long run vis-à-vis the immediate impact. For non-special category states, own tax revenue, capital outlay and grants from centre multiplier are over unity. Thus, capital expenditure expansion or tax cut are both effective to increase output. For special category states, fiscal stimuli based upon tax cuts are more effective than those based upon spending increases. Capital outlay multiplier, however, stands at 0.83. Hence, the study provides a rationale for ring-fencing of capital expenditure target to be most crucial for reviving growth in Indian states.

JEL Codes: E62, H71, H72
Cultivating Teacher Identity in a Graduate Program: A Holistic Approach
Authors: Philpott Rhonda , Ilieva Roumiana
Published: September 2024

Engaging with recent calls to incorporate teacher identity as a central principle in language teacher education, this article aims to address practical ways to support teacher identity development in students in a graduate program for language educators. Employing duoethnography as a qualitative research approach and reflective practice, the two authors, who are instructors in the program, engage in conversation on coursework and activities that invite reflection on and negotiation of identities among participants in the program. The work we have been doing explores a variety of aspects to create a more holistic lens from which to support the development of teacher identity as connected to professional identities (educational beliefs, practices, and experiences) and personal identities (cultural background, ethnicity, language, gender, etc.). The idea that who we are is continuously evolving in a process of becoming is a metaphor guiding identity work in the program. This process of becoming and teaching who we are calls for teacher educators to consider in depth the impact of teacher education activities and processes on student teachers’ developing understandings of themselves as language educators in our globalized world.
Heat and sweat regulating performance of zoning structure weft-knitted sportswear
Authors: Dong Zhijia , Ding Yuqin , Han Luyi , Fang Xueming , Ma Pibo
Published: September 2024

In this study, weft-knitted seamless technology was used to configure different structures in different positions of sportswear to realize the regulation of heat and moisture partition of the human body. Six kinds of weft-knitted fabric with different structures were designed by using super-fine polyester functional yarn as face yarn and ground yarn of different raw materials. We studied the effects of the types of ground yarns and fabric structures on the thermal and wet comfort of fabrics. According to the comprehensive evaluation of fabric and the difference of sweat in different parts of the human body, the clothing with zoning structure was designed and tested. The experiment showed that fabric made of 55 dtex polyester with 14 single fibers combined with 93.3 dtex polyester with 384 single fibers exhibited excellent moisture management properties. Compared with 55.5 dtex nylon/22.2 dtex spandex covered yarn, the combination of 55.5 dtex polyester/22.2 dtex spandex covered yarn and 93.3 dtex/384 f polyester yarn had superior performance. In the process of zone clothing, the temperature inside decreases and sweat accumulates less. However, the temperature of the inner side of the clothing on the market rises and the humidity accumulates obviously during exercise, which shows that the zone structure can respond to the heat and moisture change of different parts more effectively.
The union default: Increasing union membership by facilitating the experience of unionism and overcoming the role of inertia
Authors: Harcourt Mark , Gall Gregor , Wilson Margaret
Published: September 2024

By understanding both the role of unions as an ‘experience good’ and the place of inertia in contributing to the prevalence of non-unionism, this article suggests that a union default could have a major impact in recruiting new members. Drawing upon a sub-sample of non-union workers in unionised workplaces from a study conducted in New Zealand, the authors show that a significant minority would stay in membership and support a union default. These results have positive implications for understanding how to shape the preferences of non-union workers in union and non-union workplaces.
Aspects of mass and thermal relaxation time and exothermic chemical processes on the flow of a ternary hybrid Sutterby nanofluid via slant surface with activation energy and linear convection limits
Authors: Alarabi TH , Alzahrani SS , Mahdy A , Abo-zaid Omima A
Published: September 2024

This research scrutinizes the radiative convective heat transfer of non-Newtonian ternary hybrid nanofluid across slant surface of equal quantities of nanoparticles dispersed in raw fluid subjected to a constant magnetic field. The contribution assumes the existence of an exothermic reaction a process of diffusion of nanoparticles of copper metal and metal oxides in the raw liquid to enhance combustion and particle concentration of reactants in chemical processes. The model is governed by thermal and mass relaxation times that appear in partial derivative equations and the mathematical analysis is derived using dimensionless quantities and subsequently solved using the RK45 technique. The computations indicate that both the exothermic reaction and the reaction rate factors increase heat distribution, facilitating the complete combustion process. Tri-nanofluid exerts the highest shear stress on the solid boundary while the minimal shear stress on the surface is seen in the case of mono-nanofluid. A 13.3% upgrade in the thermal efficiency is noticed if tri-nanoparticles are dispersed rather than mono-nanoparticles. Therefore, the significant rise in heat transmit is possible due to the dispersion of tri-nanoparticles.
Effect of Meaning-in-Life Interventions for Advanced Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kim Youjin , Nam Soo-Hyun , Hwang Boyoung
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to explore the effects of meaning-in-life intervention on meaning in life, quality of life, spiritual well-being, anxiety, and depression in advanced cancer patients. Databases, including Ovid Medline, Cochrane, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Embase, were searched to identify relevant randomized controlled trials based on predefined criteria. Seven studies were included. Meta-analysis was performed for five studies, involving 718 patients with advanced cancer. The meta-analysis revealed no significant effects of the meaning-in-life intervention on spiritual well-being, depression, and anxiety of advanced cancer patients. The insufficient number of studies and risk of bias limit the strength of the conclusions. Therefore, further studies with larger sample sizes and methodologically rigorous designs are required to evaluate the effects of meaning-in-life interventions for advanced cancer patients. Our findings can support a better understanding of the need to study meaning-in-life interventions in advanced cancer patients and foster sustained attention to recognize meaning-in-life interventions as an effective method in healthcare.
Analysis of dimer and trimer complexes of the non-amyloidogenic rat islet amyloid polypeptide 21–37 by electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Lim Jin Young , Kim Seo Yeon , Kim Ho-Tae
Published: September 2024

The dimer and trimer structures of the non-amyloidogenic rat islet amyloid polypeptide 21–37 peptide, formed in an H2O/CH3OH (1% CH3COOH) solution were investigated using electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry (ESI-MS/MS). The dissociation of monomers, dimers, and trimers was investigated by MS/MS using collision-induced dissociation. The peptide bond dissociation between L7 and P8 was mainly observed in the tandem mass spectra of the monomers and oligomers, regardless of the parent ion charge state. The fragment ions were observed as a series of bu (u = 3–4, 6–7, 12) or yn (n = 10–11, 13–14) in the [Mono + 2H]2+ (=[monomer + 2H]2+) tandem mass spectrum. MS/MS analysis of the [Di + 3H]3+ (=[dimer + 3H]3+) complex indicated that [Di + 3H]3+ comprised [Mono + H]1+ and [Mono + 2H]2+ subunits. During covalent bond dissociation of the [Di + 3H]3+ complex, a fragmentation pattern was observed in the form of {mono + (fragment ion of [Mono + 2H]2+)}, resulting from the collision energy dissociation of the [Mono + 2H]2+ peptide. The [(C-terminal)–(C-terminal)] interaction geometry was proposed for the [Di + 3H]3+ complex based on the observation of [y10 + yn]2+ (n = 10–11, 13–16) fragment ions in the [Di + 3H]3+ tandem mass spectrum. MS/MS analysis of the [Tri + 4H]4+ (=[trimer + 4H]4+) complex indicated that [Tri + 4H]4+ comprised [Mono + H]1+ and [Di + 3H]3+ subunits. The (monomer–[Di + 3H]3+)4+ complex geometry was assumed to be stable based on the presence of {mono + (fragment ion of [Di + 3H]3+)} ions in the tandem mass spectrum of the [Tri + 4H]4+ complex. The two [Mono + (y10 + y10)]2+ and [Mono + (Mono + y10)]3+ fragment ions also supported the (monomer–[Di + 3H]3+)4+ complex geometries of the [Tri + 4H]4+ complex. The [(C-terminal)–(C-terminal)] interaction geometry of the [Di + 3H]3+ subunit is thought to be conserved in the [Tri + 4H]4+ complex geometries.
Fissured thought for fractured times: Reflections on geography, ecology and the state
Authors: Usher Mark
Published: September 2024

There has been an ecologisation of social and political thought in recent decades. The planetary crisis has prompted scholars in the humanities and social sciences to become more acutely sensitive to the conditioning effect of the physical environment on their varied disciplinary interests. The growing influence of post-structuralism has also been a critical factor, giving rise to the ecologically inflected tradition of new materialism, of which Bruno Latour has been a prominent advocate. Latour's later ‘ecological’ writings seek nothing less than a Copernican-scale revolution in modern cosmology, more applicable to living in the Anthropocene. As this important intervention from Gonin et al. elucidates, this presents a challenge to the longstanding Westphalian conception of territory, which remains a dominant framework in political theory. In this commentary, however, I question their intention to transcend the state, suggesting that Gonin et al. risk downplaying Latour's own mounting concern with sovereignty while overlooking the lineage of his thought in post-structural political theory. This post-structural tradition remains more relevant than ever in an era marked by ecological crisis and the resurgence of the nation-state.
Examining the Impact of Forest Policies on Sacred Groves in India: A Historical Review
Authors: Rawat Garima , Lakra Harshit Sosan
Published: September 2024

Owing to their ecological, cultural and spiritual value in traditional civilisations, Sacred Groves have been vital to forest and biodiversity protection since ancient times. With their long-standing rituals, rites and customs, these places represent a balanced relationship between humans and the environment and act as essential linkages between communities of the past and present. However, as a result of the continuing repercussions of European colonialism, extraction of resources was given priority over the rights of Indigenous people to their forests under India’s forest rules. This led to serious environmental damage and the marginalisation of traditional forest management techniques. Utilising a qualitative, historical research approach and drawing conclusions from a range of secondary sources, this study critically investigates how Indian forest regulations have impacted traditional management methods, with a particular emphasis on Sacred Groves.
Strabismic Adults’ Experiences of Psychosocial Influence of Strabismus—A Qualitative Study
Authors: Mason Anna , Joronen Katja , Lindberg Laura , Kajander Marika , Fagerholm Nina , Rantanen Anja
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Strabismus influences health-related quality of life. Individuals may have functional and psychosocial consequences of strabismus that impact their well-being. As strabismus is prevalent in all age groups, patients are seen in varied specialties in healthcare organizations. Therefore, healthcare professionals need to be aware of the psychosocial consequences when caring for strabismic individuals.

Objective

To describe strabismic adults’ experiences of the psychosocial influence of strabismus.

Methods

Twelve strabismic adults participated in face-to-face or online semistructured individual interviews to share their experiences of the psychosocial influence of strabismus. The participants were selected purposefully. The data were analyzed using inductive content analysis.

Results

The participating adults described challenges with social environments, which showed stress in social situations and pressure in interactions. Strabismic adults had experienced staring from others, avoided social situations, and were uncomfortable with photography. They hid their strabismus, avoided eye contact, and struggled with intimate relationships. They also expressed struggles with mental well-being, which were emotional and psychological burdens. The adults described feeling negative emotions, worry, and irritation due to their condition. Struggles with self-confidence, difficulties with acceptance, negative thoughts about their appearance, experiences of bullying, and dealing with being different were described.

Conclusion

Strabismic adults experience psychosocial consequences of strabismus, influencing their psychosocial health-related quality of life. Further studies should focus on how healthcare professionals could support strabismic individuals’ psychosocial well-being.
Effectiveness of Distance Training Based on Simple Triage and Quick Treatment System (START) Triage System in Pre-Hospital Emergency
Authors: Hosseinzadeh Mofid , Nematollahi Ali-Vafagh , Afra Yasin , Amini Payam , Navaei Alireza Rafati
Published: September 2024

OBJECTIVE

Triage is the key to success in managing many injured people with limited resources. Therefore, triage training for crisis team medical staff is critical. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of asynchronous learning on immediate care personnel based on the Simple Triage and Quick Treatment System (START) triage system.

METHODS

In this quasi-experimental study, asynchronous learning based on the START triage system was performed on the immediate care staff of Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences from February 2021 to December 2021. Sixty pre-hospital emergency medical staff were randomly assigned to intervention and control groups. Intervention group participants were provided an asynchronous digital training module, and control group participants received the usual training. Data were collected in both groups as pre-test and post-test with demographic information and knowledge assessment questionnaires.

RESULTS

Distance triage training based on the START triage system has a significant effect on the level of awareness of the need for triage and knowledge (awareness) and performance (individual efficiency) of immediate care in the intervention group compared to before training ( P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Considering the positive results of the pre-organizing model on raising the level of awareness of immediate care personnel, the use of this training method in triage in emergency medicine and retraining workshops could be considered.
Hsa_circ_0000520 suppresses vasculogenic mimicry formation and metastasis in bladder cancer through Lin28a/PTEN/PI3K signaling
Authors: Zhang Chunyu , Hu Jiao , Liu Zhi , Deng Hao , Xiao Jiatong , Yi Zhenglin , He Yunbo , Xiao Zicheng , Huang Jinliang , Liang Haisu , Fan Benyi , Wang Zhihua , Chen Jinbo , Zu Xiongbing
Published: September 2024

Background

Vasculogenic mimicry (VM) is a potential cause of resistance to antiangiogenic therapy and is closely related to the malignant progression of tumors. It has been shown that noncoding RNAs play an important role in the formation of VM in malignant tumors. However, the role of circRNAs in VM of bladder cancer and the regulatory mechanisms are unclear.

Methods

Firstly, hsa_circ_0000520 was identified to have circular character by Sanger sequencing and Rnase R assays. Secondly, the potential clinical value of hsa_circ_0000520 was explored by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) of clinical specimens. Thirdly, the role of hsa_circ_0000520 in bladder cancer invasion, migration, and VM formation was examined by in vivo and in vitro experiments. Finally, the regulatory mechanisms of hsa_circ_0000520 in the malignant progression of bladder cancer were elucidated by RNA binding protein immunoprecipitation (RIP), RNA pulldown, co-immunoprecipitation (co-IP), qRT-PCR, Western blot (WB), and fluorescence co-localization.

Results

Hsa_circ_0000520 was characterized as a circular RNA and was lowly expressed in bladder cancer compared with the paracancer. Bladder cancer patients with high expression of hsa_circ_0000520 had better survival prognosis. Functionally, hsa_circ_0000520 inhibited bladder cancer invasion, migration, and VM formation. Mechanistically, hsa_circ_0000520 acted as a scaffold to promote binding of UBE2V1/UBC13 to Lin28a, further promoting the ubiquitous degradation of Lin28a, improving PTEN mRNA stability, and inhibiting the phosphorylation of the PI3K/AKT pathway. The formation of hsa_circ_0000520 in bladder cancer was regulated by RNA binding protein QKI.

Conclusions

Hsa_circ_0000520 inhibits metastasis and VM formation in bladder cancer and is a potential target for bladder cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Lysosome quality control in health and neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Ferrari Veronica , Tedesco Barbara , Cozzi Marta , Chierichetti Marta , Casarotto Elena , Pramaggiore Paola , Cornaggia Laura , Mohamed Ali , Patelli Guglielmo , Piccolella Margherita , Cristofani Riccardo , Crippa Valeria , Galbiati Mariarita , Poletti Angelo , Rusmini Paola
Published: September 2024

Lysosomes are acidic organelles involved in crucial intracellular functions, including the degradation of organelles and protein, membrane repair, phagocytosis, endocytosis, and nutrient sensing. Given these key roles of lysosomes, maintaining their homeostasis is essential for cell viability. Thus, to preserve lysosome integrity and functionality, cells have developed a complex intracellular system, called lysosome quality control (LQC). Several stressors may affect the integrity of lysosomes, causing Lysosomal membrane permeabilization (LMP), in which membrane rupture results in the leakage of luminal hydrolase enzymes into the cytosol. After sensing the damage, LQC either activates lysosome repair, or induces the degradation of the ruptured lysosomes through autophagy. In addition, LQC stimulates the de novo biogenesis of functional lysosomes and lysosome exocytosis. Alterations in LQC give rise to deleterious consequences for cellular homeostasis. Specifically, the persistence of impaired lysosomes or the malfunctioning of lysosomal processes leads to cellular toxicity and death, thereby contributing to the pathogenesis of different disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases (NDs). Recently, several pieces of evidence have underlined the importance of the role of lysosomes in NDs. In this review, we describe the elements of the LQC system, how they cooperate to maintain lysosome homeostasis, and their implication in the pathogenesis of different NDs.

Graphical Abstract
Inverse correlation between TP53 gene status and PD-L1 protein levels in a melanoma cell model depends on an IRF1/SOX10 regulatory axis
Authors: Martinkova Lucia , Zatloukalova Pavlina , Kucerikova Martina , Friedlova Nela , Tylichova Zuzana , Zavadil-Kokas Filip , Hupp Ted Robert , Coates Philip John , Vojtesek Borivoj
Published: September 2024

Background

PD-L1 expression on cancer cells is an important mechanism of tumor immune escape, and immunotherapy targeting the PD-L1/PD1 interaction is a common treatment option for patients with melanoma. However, many patients do not respond to treatment and novel predictors of response are emerging. One suggested modifier of PD-L1 is the p53 pathway, although the relationship of p53 pathway function and activation is poorly understood.

Methods

The study was performed on human melanoma cell lines with various p53 status. We investigated PD-L1 and proteins involved in IFNγ signaling by immunoblotting and mRNA expression, as well as membrane expression of PD-L1 by flow cytometry. We evaluated differences in the ability of NK cells to recognize and kill target tumor cells on the basis of p53 status. We also investigated the influence of proteasomal degradation and protein half-life, IFNγ signaling and p53 activation on biological outcomes, and performed bioinformatic analysis using available data for melanoma cell lines and melanoma patients.

Results

We demonstrate that p53 status changes the level of membrane and total PD-L1 protein through IRF1 regulation and show that p53 loss influences the recently discovered SOX10/IRF1 regulatory axis. Bioinformatic analysis identified a dependency of SOX10 on p53 status in melanoma, and a co-regulation of immune signaling by both transcription factors. However, IRF1/PD-L1 regulation by p53 activation revealed complicated regulatory mechanisms that alter IRF1 mRNA but not protein levels. IFNγ activation revealed no dramatic differences based on TP53 status, although dual p53 activation and IFNγ treatment confirmed a complex regulatory loop between p53 and the IRF1/PD-L1 axis.

Conclusions

We show that p53 loss influences the level of PD-L1 through IRF1 and SOX10 in an isogenic melanoma cell model, and that p53 loss affects NK-cell cytotoxicity toward tumor cells. Moreover, activation of p53 by MDM2 inhibition has a complex effect on IRF1/PD-L1 activation. These findings indicate that evaluation of p53 status in patients with melanoma will be important for predicting the response to PD-L1 monotherapy and/or dual treatments where p53 pathways participate in the overall response.

Graphical Abstracts