bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exudate Unidirectional Pump to Promote Glucose Catabolism Triggering Fenton‐Like Reaction for Chronic Diabetic Wounds Therapy
Authors: Liang Yaxian , Wang Wenjie , Qi Kailong , Wei Yige , Zhao Weifeng , Xie Huixu , Zhao Changsheng
Published: August 2024

The massive accumulation of exudate containing high concentrations of glucose causes wound infection and triggers the release of inflammatory factors, which in turn delays the closure of diabetic wounds. In this study, a Janus membrane is constructed by combining glucose oxidase (GOx) and copper ions (Cu2+) for the treatment of diabetic wounds, which is named as Janus@GOx/Cu2+. It consists of hydrophobic, transitional, and superhydrophilic layers in a three‐layer structure with gradient hydrophilicity for self‐pumping properties. The Janus@GOx/Cu2+ membrane triggers a series of cascading reactions while pumping out diabetic wound exudates. First, glucose oxidase loaded onto the hydrophilic layer of the Janus@GOx/Cu2+ membrane decomposes glucose into hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and glucuronic acid, reducing the local glucose level. The generated glucuronic acid neutralizes the local alkaline environment of chronic wounds. Simultaneously, the H2O2 interacts with the Cu2+ contained in the hydrophobic layers of the Janus@GOx/Cu2+ membrane via a Fenton‐like reaction, generating hydroxyl radicals with excellent bactericidal properties. Cu2+ promotes angiogenesis and wound healing in diabetic wounds. Under the action of multiple responses, the Janus@GOx/Cu2+ membrane promotes wound healing in diabetic infections.
A Mutation Losing an RBP‐Binding Site in the LncRNA NORSF Transcript Influences Granulosa Cell Apoptosis and Sow Fertility
Authors: Wang Miaomiao , Sheng Wenmin , Zhang Jiyu , Cao Qiuyu , Du Xing , Li Qifa
Published: August 2024

Sow fertility is an economically important quantitative trait. Hundreds of quantitative trait loci (QTLs) containing tens of thousands of potential candidate genes are excavated. However, among these genes, non‐coding RNAs including long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are often overlooked. Here, it is reported that NORSF is a novel causal lncRNA for sow fertility traits in QTLs. QTLs are characterized for sow fertility traits at the genome‐wide level and identified 4,630 potential candidate lncRNAs, with 13 differentially expressed during sow follicular atresia. NORSF, a lncRNA that involved in sow granulosa cell (sGC) function, is identified as a candidate gene for sow fertility traits as a G to A transversion at 128 nt in its transcript is shown to be markedly associated with sow fertility traits. Mechanistically, after forming the RNA:dsDNA triplexes with the promoter of Caspase8, NORSF transcript with allele G binds to an RNA‐binding protein (RBP) NR2C1 and recruits it to the promoter of Caspase8, to induce Caspase8 transcription in sGCs. Functionally, this leads to a loss of inducing effect of NORSF on sGC apoptosis by inactivating the death receptor‐mediated apoptotic pathway. This study identified a novel causal lncRNA that can be used for the genetic improvement of sow fertility traits.
Structural Quality Factor of Flo‐TENG under Stochastic Wave Excitation
Authors: Guo Dongxin , Chen Chunjin , Li Jiawei , Zhai Lixia , Li Songying , He Sheng , Feng Junrui , Wan Lingyu , Liu Guanlin , Zhai Junyi
Published: August 2024

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) have recently emerged as a promising technology for efficient water wave energy harvesting. However, there is a paucity of clear guidance regarding the optimal designs of TENGs and their shells to achieve efficient absorption and conversion of water wave energy in real random waves. Herein, from the perspective of wave‐body interaction and energy transfer, this paper proposes a structural quality factor (Qunit) for the quantitative evaluation of both the motion of floating triboelectric nanogenerator (Flo‐TENG) shells and their capability to absorb and convert water wave energy efficiently. The factor is further subdivided into the amplitude structural quality factor (Qacc), which characterizes shell motion amplitude, and the frequency structural quality factor (Qf), which describes shell motion frequency. This paper systematically investigates the impact of various shell parameters such as bow shapes, curvatures, inclinations, and immersion ratios on Qacc and Qf. The findings indicate that variations in shell shape result in distinct Qunit values along different axial directions of wave propagation. These variations directly influence energy absorption efficiency in these directions. These results provide fundamental guidance for the design of high‐performance Flo‐TENG shells and the selection of internal energy harvesting directions to enable more efficient energy conversion.
Hypocretin‐1/Hypocretin Receptor 1 Regulates Neuroplasticity and Cognitive Function through Hippocampal Lactate Homeostasis in Depressed Model
Authors: Chen Bing , Jin Kangyu , Dong Jingyi , Cheng Shangping , Kong Lingzhuo , Hu Shaohua , Chen Zuobing , Lu Jing
Published: August 2024

Cognitive dysfunction is not only a common symptom of major depressive disorder, but also a more common residual symptom after antidepressant treatment and a risk factor for chronic and recurrent disease. The disruption of hypocretin regulation is known to be associated with depression, however, their exact correlation is remains to be elucidated. Hypocretin‐1 levels are increased in the plasma and hypothalamus from chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) model mice. Excessive hypocretin‐1 conducted with hypocretin receptor 1 (HCRTR1) reduced lactate production and brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression by hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α), thus impairing adult hippocampal neuroplasticity, and cognitive impairment in CUMS model. Subsequently, it is found that HCRTR1 antagonists can reverse these changes. The direct effect of hypocretin‐1 on hippocampal lactate production and cognitive behavior is further confirmed by intraventricular injection of hypocretin‐1 and microPET‐CT in rats. In addition, these mechanisms are further validated in astrocytes and neurons in vitro. Moreover, these phenotypes and changes in molecules of lactate transport pathway can be duplicated by specifically knockdown of HCRTR1 in hippocampal astrocytes. In summary, the results provide molecular and functional insights for involvement of hypocretin‐1‐HCRTR1 in altered cognitive function in depression.
Photocurrent Spectroscopy of Dark Magnetic Excitons in 2D Multiferroic NiI2
Authors: Lebedev Dmitry , Gish J. Tyler , Garvey Ethan S. , Song Thomas W. , Zhou Qunfei , Wang Luqing , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Chan Maria K. , Darancet Pierre , Stern Nathaniel P. , Sangwan Vinod K. , Hersam Mark C.
Published: August 2024

Two‐dimensional (2D) antiferromagnetic (AFM) semiconductors are promising components of opto‐spintronic devices due to terahertz operation frequencies and minimal interactions with stray fields. However, the lack of net magnetization significantly limits the number of experimental techniques available to study the relationship between magnetic order and semiconducting properties. Here, they demonstrate conditions under which photocurrent spectroscopy can be employed to study many‐body magnetic excitons in the 2D AFM semiconductor NiI2. The use of photocurrent spectroscopy enables the detection of optically dark magnetic excitons down to bilayer thickness, revealing a high degree of linear polarization that is coupled to the underlying helical AFM order of NiI2. In addition to probing the coupling between magnetic order and dark excitons, this work provides strong evidence for the multiferroicity of NiI2 down to bilayer thickness, thus demonstrating the utility of photocurrent spectroscopy for revealing subtle opto‐spintronic phenomena in the atomically thin limit.
Dynamics of Intra‐Cell Thermal Front Propagation in Lithium‐Ion Battery Safety Issues
Authors: Jia Yikai , Zhao Peng , Finegan Donal P. , Xu Jun
Published: August 2024

Thermal runaway (TR), a critical failure mode in lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs), poses significant safety risks and hinders wider application of LIBs. TR typically begins at a localized heat source and spreads across the cell. Understanding thermal front propagation (TFP) characteristics, such as front and velocity, is crucial for assessing energy release and temperature distribution for battery hazardous estimation. Recent studies assume that TR within cells propagates at a near‐constant velocity, based on the reaction kinetics and thermal properties. Here, an intra‐battery TR model is further proposed and it indicates that TFP velocity stabilizes when the front is distanced from the heat source. Theoretical estimates for propagation velocity and front are developed and validated through numerical simulations and experimental tests from the NREL Battery Failure Databank. The energy release rate during TFP and the impact of preheating based on a point heat source are explored. This work clarifies the long‐standing clouds of the thermal font propagation behaviors within the single cell, highlights the power and beauty of mathematics modeling to describe the complicated thermal behaviors, and provides important guidelines for thermal hazardous understanding for next‐generation batteries.
Microenvironment‐adaptive nanodecoy synergizes bacterial eradication, inflammation alleviation, and immunomodulation in promoting biofilm‐associated diabetic chronic wound healing cascade
Authors: Chen Lei , Peng Mengna , He Wei , Hu Xiaoli , Xiao Jian , Shi Linqi , Liu Yong , Li Yuanfeng
Published: August 2024

The presence of bacterial biofilms and the occurrence of excessive inflammatory response greatly imped the healing process of chronic wounds in diabetic patients. However, effective strategies to simultaneously address these issues are still lacking. Here, a microenvironment‐adaptive nanodecoy (GC@Pd) is constructed via the coordination and in situ reduction of palladium ions on gallic acid‐modified chitosan (GC) to promote wound healing by synergistic biofilm eradication, inflammation alleviation, and immunoregulation. During the weakly acidic conditions of the biofilm infection stage, GC@Pd serves as a nanodecoy to induce bacterial aggregation. Subsequently, through its oxidase‐like activity generating reactive oxygen species and the hyperthermia from photothermal effects, it effectively eliminates the biofilm. As the local microenvironment of diabetic wounds transitions to an alkaline inflammatory state, the enzyme‐like activity of GC@Pd adapts to catalase‐like activity, effectively eliminating reactive oxygen species at the site of inflammation. Additionally, GC@Pd could selectively capture pro‐inflammatory cytokines through Michael addition reactions. In vivo experiments and transcriptomic analysis confirmed that GC@Pd could accelerate the wound transition from inflammatory to proliferative phase by eliminating biofilm infection and reducing the inflammatory response, thus promoting diabetic chronic wound healing. The nanodecoy provides a potential therapeutic strategy for treating biofilm‐infected diabetic chronic wounds.
COVID‐19 deaths in dental occupations and other healthcare occupations among U.S. decedents in 2020
Authors: Blackley Brie Hawley , Fechter‐Leggett Ethan D. , Alexander Talia , Panagakos Fotinos , Chipps Tammy , Cox‐Ganser Jean M.
Published: August 2024

Background

Early studies during the COVID‐19 pandemic suggested dental occupations were among the highest risk for exposure to SARs‐CoV‐2 because of multiple factors increasing exposure, including close proximity to unmasked patients and performance of aerosol‐generating procedures. However, to date, few studies have investigated COVID‐19 deaths in United States dental occupations, and compared COVID‐19 deaths among healthcare occupations.

Methods

We analyzed 2020 mortality data collected by the National Center for Health Statistics' National Vital Statistics System. Multivariable logistic regression was used to generate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals for COVID‐19 as the underlying cause of death in relation to occupation in working‐age decedents (≤65 years), after adjusting for age, sex, race/ethnicity, education, and medical conditions associated with severe COVID‐19.

Results

Dental occupations did not have significantly higher risk for COVID‐19 death when compared to all other occupations combined. Among healthcare occupations with frequent, direct patient‐ or client interactions, LPNs and LVNs, and speech and language pathologists had significantly elevated adjusted ORs for COVID‐19 death when compared to dentists, dental hygienists, or dental assistants. Similarly, nurse practitioners had significantly higher ORs for COVID‐19 mortality than dentists or dental hygienists, and approached significance when compared to dental assistants. Conversely, massage therapists and other health diagnosing and treating practitioners had significantly lower adjusted ORs for COVID‐19 death compared with dental occupations.

Conclusion

Our study highlights potential differences in work‐related transmission of SARs‐CoV‐2 and subsequent COVID‐19 deaths in healthcare occupations, and furthers a previously limited understanding of COVID‐19 deaths in healthcare occupations in 2020, before COVID‐19 vaccine availability. Our results indicate that dental occupations were not among the highest, nor lowest risk, healthcare occupations for COVID‐19 deaths in 2020, despite their known risks of direct exposure.
Examining predictive meteorological variables in the singing behavior of northern white‐cheeked gibbons (Nomascus leucogenys) in northern Lao PDR
Authors: White Jay , Rasphone Akchousanh , Thoyar Anong , Nijman Vincent
Published: August 2024

Considering the conservation attention needed to keep viable the few remaining wild populations of the Critically Endangered northern white‐cheeked gibbon (Nomascus leucogenys), there has been a serious paucity of research undertaken for the species. To improve the effectiveness of surveys of this and other gibbon species, and ultimately their conservation, it is important to better understand the variables that affect their singing behavior—the feature that is currently used in most gibbon population surveys. We collected singing and meteorological data from 320 days, between October 2020 and March 2021, at 80 different locations, during an auditory presence/non‐detection survey of N. leucogenys in northeastern Lao PDR. Songs were detected on 100 of the 320 days, a total of 154 song bouts. We analyzed the differences in song bout frequency, song bout timing (in relation to sunrise), and song bout length in relation to the meteorological variables of temperature, relative humidity, cloud cover, rain, fog, and wind. We found song bout frequency to be significantly greater on mornings with cloud cover (as a function of improved detection), on mornings without fog, on mornings without rain, and on warmer mornings. We found song bouts to start significantly earlier on mornings without fog and on warmer mornings when fog was present. Finally, we found song bouts lasted longer on mornings with fog and on warmer mornings. We did not find any significant relationships with relative humidity or wind. These patterns fit with prior research on behavioral responses of gibbons to weather and improve the understanding of gibbon vocal behavior to better prepare researchers for designing auditory surveys of Nomascus and other gibbon species.
Synthesis of Cd‐MOF and Eu3+@Cd‐MOF as Multitarget Sensors for Simultaneous Sensing Cr (VI) Anion and 4‐NA
Authors: Wang Fengqin , Wang Yihui , Xie Zhijian , Zhao Zhongrui , Dong Zhenghong , Feng Xue , Ren Qian , Dong Caifu
Published: August 2024

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) as a kind of sensing material plays an important role for environmental monitoring and human health. In this paper, we prepared a luminescent Cd‐MOF: [Cd2L·4H2O]·H2O. (H4L = 2,5‐bis‐(3,4‐dicarboxy‐phenyl)thiophene‐amide) under the solvothermal condition. Single crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis shows that Cd‐MOF has a 2D layer structure, and it exhibits a strong fluorescence emission at 470 nm. The sensing experiment displays Cd‐MOF as multitarget probe can selectively detect Cr (VI) anions and 4‐nitroaniline (4‐NA) with high sensitivity, good anti‐interference ability, and good recyclability. In addition, dual‐emission Eu3+@Cd‐MOF was obtained by encapsulating Eu3+ ions into Cd‐MOF, in which Cd‐MOF sensitizes Eu3+ ion emission. Accordingly, Eu3+@Cd‐MOF also acts as multitarget and self‐calibrated probe to selectively detect Cr (VI) ions and 4‐NA synchronously at the same conditions. However, the changes of fluorescence emissions of Eu3+@Cd‐MOF toward Cr (VI) ions are different from that of the original Cd‐MOF. The possible sensing mechanism be attributed to the competitive energy absorption between Cd‐MOF or Eu3+@Cd‐MOF and the analytes. All the results may provide broad prospects for developing multitarget sensing platform for sensing environment pollutants.
Preparation of PEK‐C‐toughened epoxy structural adhesive for bonding CF/PEEK composites
Authors: Wang Dezhi , Hou Liran , Zhao Liwei , Li Hongfeng , Fan Xupeng , Liu Changwei , Guo Zhiyuan , Qu Chunyan
Published: August 2024

In this paper, an epoxy structural adhesive was fabricated by using the high‐performance thermoplastic engineering plastic phenolphthalein‐based polyaryletherketone (PEK‐C) as tougheners, and 4,4′‐diaminodiphenylsulfone (DDS) and 4,4‐diaminodiphenylmethane (DDM) as the curing agents. The effect of PEK‐C on the mechanical properties, microstructure, and adhesive properties of the modified epoxy resin system was investigated. Epoxy structural adhesive with 20 phr PEK‐C exhibited excellent bonding performance and thermal stability. The PEK‐C toughened adhesive presented high shear strength of 31.6 MPa and 27.6 MPa at 120°C and 150°C, respectively. The PEK‐C toughened epoxy structural adhesive was then used to bond CF/PEEK composites, and the effects on the bonding properties of CF/PEEK were investigated. By the combined treatment of sandpaper grinding and corona discharge (80 mesh sandpaper sanding + corona treatment for 30 s), the shear strength of the composite joints is increased to 18.73 MPa. And the shear strength retention rate of the joint was 99.8%. The strategy can be used to fabricate sandwich structures with CF/PEEK as the skin with excellent performance. Therefore, PEK‐C toughened modified epoxy resin is conducive to the enhancement of adhesive properties and has a better performance for the bonding of CF/PEEK materials.
Preparation of P/N/Si‐containing covalent organic framework‐based flame retardants and their application in epoxy resins
Authors: Liu Jian , Yu Yongxin , Ji Xiaoli
Published: August 2024

Balancing the enhancement of flame retardancy of epoxy resin while maintaining its mechanical capacities intact poses a significant challenge in the realm of flame‐retardant epoxy resins. To reach the above objectives, a COF‐based synergistic flame retardant with phosphorus, nitrogen, and silicon (PA‐COF@MT) was synthesized using phytic acid (PA), montmorillonite (MT), and covalent organic framework (COF). When PA‐COF@MT was added at 4 wt%, EP/PA‐COF@MT exhibited a reduction of 42.1% in peak heat release rate (PHRR), 45.84% in total heat release (THR), and 59.8% in total smoke production (TSP) compared with the pure EP. LOI increased by 30.5% and UL‐94 tested to V‐0 grade. flame‐retardant index (FRI) value of 3.03, achieving a “good” rating. Fire growth indices and mean effective combustion heat were increased while mechanical properties also improved. These findings suggest that the flame retarding mechanism of PA‐COF@MT is mainly through vapor phase and condensed phase actions. The combined effects of phosphorus, nitrogen, and silicon make the surface of carbon residue solid and dense, resulting in excellent heat insulation and smoke suppression effects. In simple terms, this study provides new insights into COF‐based flame retardants. Combining low‐cost and simple preparation methods, PA‐COF@MT has broad application prospects in flame‐retardant epoxy resin systems.
Frontal sinus size in South African Later Stone Age Holocene Khoe‐San
Authors: Grine Frederick E. , Post Nicholas W. , Greening Victoria , Crevecoeur Isabelle , Billings Brendon K. , Meyer Anja , Holt Sharon , Black Wendy , Morris Alan G. , Veeramah Krishna R. , Mongle Carrie S.
Published: August 2024

Frontal size variation is comparatively poorly sampled among sub‐Saharan African populations. This study assessed frontal sinus size in a sample of Khoe‐San skeletal remains from South African Later Stone Age contexts. Volumes were determined from CT scans of 102 adult crania; individual sex could be estimated in 82 cases. Sinus volume is not sexually dimorphic in this sample. The lack of frontal sinus aplasia is concordant with the low incidences recorded for other sub‐Saharan African and most other global populations save those that inhabit high latitudes. There is considerable variation in frontal sinus size among global populations, and the Khoe‐San possess among the smallest. The Khoe‐San have rather diminutive sinuses compared to sub‐Saharan Bantu‐speaking populations but resemble a northern African (Sudanese) population. Genetic studies indicate the earliest population divergence within Homo sapiens to have been between the Khoe‐San and all other living groups, and that this likely occurred in Africa during the span of Marine Isotope Stages 8–6. There is scant information on frontal sinus development among Late Quaternary African fossils that are likely either closely related or attributable to Homo sapiens. Among these, the MIS 3 cranium from Hofmeyr, South Africa, exhibits distinct Khoe‐San cranial affinities and despite its large size has a very small frontal sinus. This raises the possibility that the small frontal sinuses of the Holocene South African Khoe‐San might be a feature retained from an earlier MIS 3 population.
Evaluation of the temperature adaptation of three rubber tree pest mites based on their two‐sex life table
Authors: Wang Weihua , Wan Sanlian , Zheng Lijiu , Zhang Fangping , Chen Junyu
Published: August 2024

To determine the optimal temperature range for the development and reproduction of three spider mites (Eotetranychus sexmaculatus, Eotetranychus orientalis, and Oligonychus biharensis), this study investigated their developmental period, survival rate, lifespan, and reproduction under five temperatures, 21, 24, 27, 30, and 33°C, to predict and control in the field. With the gathered data, a two‐sex life table was constructed for each of them. The results revealed that as the temperature increased, both O. biharensis and E. orientalis displayed a gradual reduction in their generation period. Furthermore, an inverse relationship was observed between lifespan and temperature for all three spider mite species. When examining the survival rates at varying temperatures, E. sexmaculatus exhibited the highest rate (98%) at 33°C, while E. orientalis and O. biharensis demonstrated their highest survival rates at 24°C, reaching 90% and 100% respectively. Regarding reproduction, O. biharensis displayed the highest oviposition rates at 30°C with an average of 17.45 eggs per individual. Conversely, E. sexmaculatus and E. orientalis exhibited the highest oviposition rates at 33°C, averaging at 15.22 and 21.38 eggs per individual respectively. Significantly higher intrinsic growth rates were observed for O. biharensis and E. orientalis at 33°C, with rates of 0.22 and 0.26 respectively. In contrast, E. sexmaculatus demonstrated the highest intrinsic growth rate at 27°C. The temperature of 27°C was more suitable for the growth of the E. sexmaculatus, while 33°C was the optimal temperature for the E. orientalis and O. biharensis. The current findings provide valuable guidance for the control and prevention of these three spider mites.
All for one and one for all: The good inclusion game
Authors: Graham Scott , Keenan Mickey , Dillenburger Karola
Published: August 2024

The Good Inclusion Game (GIG) is a class‐wide education intervention employing interdependent group contingencies to increase inclusive behaviors between pupils with and without special educational needs (SEN). While previous research provided evidence of effectiveness when the class of children was split into two groups, it did not assess the effects of the GIG for one whole‐class group or in the long term. The present study addresses both of these issues. Using an ABAB design, results show a one‐team version of the GIG to be effective in increasing inclusive behaviors between pupils with and without SEN. Gains were maintained across time. Implications for inclusive education interventions and teacher training are discussed.
Truncation of a novel C‐terminal domain of a β‐glucanase improves its thermal stability and specific activity
Authors: Klemanska Anastasia , Dwyer Kelly , Walsh Gary
Published: August 2024

Enzymes that degrade β‐glucan play important roles in various industries, including those related to brewing, animal feed, and health care. Csph16A, an endo‐β‐1,3(4)‐glucanase encoded by a gene from the halotolerant, xerotolerant, and radiotrophic black fungus Cladosporium sphaerospermum, was cloned and expressed in Pichia pastoris. Two isoforms (Csph16A.1 and Csph16A.2) are produced, arising from differential glycosylation. The proteins were predicted to contain a catalytic Lam16A domain, along with a C‐terminal domain (CTD) of unknown function which exhibits minimal secondary structure. Employing PCR‐mediated gene truncation, the CTD of Csph16A was excised to assess its functional impact on the enzyme and determine potential alterations in biotechnologically relevant characteristics. The truncated mutant, Csph16A‐ΔC, exhibited significantly enhanced thermal stability at 50°C, with D‐values 14.8 and 23.5 times greater than those of Csph16A.1 and Csph16A.2, respectively. Moreover, Csph16A‐ΔC demonstrated a 20%–25% increase in halotolerance at 1.25 and 1.5 M NaCl, respectively, compared to the full‐length enzymes. Notably, specific activity against cereal β‐glucan, lichenan, and curdlan was increased by up to 238%. This study represents the first characterization of a glucanase from the stress‐tolerant fungus C. sphaerospermum and the first report of a halotolerant and engineered endo‐β‐1,3(4)‐glucanase. Additionally, it sheds light on a group of endo‐β‐1,3(4)‐glucanases from Antarctic rock‐inhabiting black fungi harboring a Lam16A catalytic domain and a novel CTD of unknown function.
The survival outcomes of localized low‐risk prostate cancer, a population‐based study using NCDB
Authors: Mao Shifeng , Samiei Arash , Yin Yue , Wegner Rodney E. , Sanguino Angela , Lyne John , Miller Ralph , Cohen Jeffrey
Published: August 2024

Background

The optimal treatment approach for low‐risk prostate cancer (LRPC) remains controversial. While active surveillance is an increasingly popular option, definitive local treatments, including radical prostatectomy (RP), external beam radiotherapy (EBRT), and prostate seed implantation (PSI), are also commonly used. This study aimed to evaluate the survival outcomes of patients with LRPC using a large patient population from the National Cancer Database (NCDB).

Methods

We analyzed data from 195,452 patients diagnosed with LRPC between 2004 and 2015 using the NCDB. Patients were classified based on their treatment modalities, including RP, EBRT, PSI, or no local treatment (NLT). Only patients with Charlson–Deyo comorbidity scores of 0 or 1 were included to ensure comparability. Propensity score analysis was used to balance the treatment groups, and the accelerated failure time model was used to analyze the survival rates of the treatment groups.

Results

After a median follow‐up of 70.8 months, 24,545 deaths occurred, resulting in an all‐cause mortality rate of 13%. RP demonstrated a survival benefit compared with NLT, particularly in patients younger than 74 years of age. In contrast, radiation treatments (EBRT and PSI) did not improve survival in the younger age groups, except for patients older than 70 years for EBRT and older than 65 years for PSI. Notably, EBRT in patients younger than 65 years was associated with inferior outcomes.

Conclusion

This study highlights the differences in survival outcomes among LRPC treatment modalities. RP was associated with improved survival compared to NLT, especially in younger patients. In contrast, EBRT and PSI showed survival benefits primarily in the older age groups. NLT is a reasonable choice, particularly in younger patients when RP is not chosen. These findings emphasize the importance of individualized treatment decisions for LRPC management.
Causes of death analysis and the prognostic model construction in neuroendocrine carcinoma of the cervix: A SEER‐based study
Authors: Yu Haijuan , Lin Yongtian , Lin Jie , Xie Ning , Liu Linying , Deng Sufang , Sun Yang
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Neuroendocrine carcinoma of the cervix (NECC) is rare but results in poor prognosis. The causes of death (CODs) in NECC patients are rarely reported. Our study aimed to explore the distributions of death causes of NECC patients compared with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and adenocarcinoma (ADC) and to develop a validated survival prediction model.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with NECC, SCC, or ADC were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program database from 1975 to 2019. We analyzed the standardized mortality ratio (SMR) to determine each cause of death for each survival time category. The Kaplan–Meier method was used for survival analysis. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to establish a nomogram model.

Results

A total of 358 NECC patients were included in this study, and 270 (75.4%) died during the follow‐up period. Patients with NECC had 5.55 times (95% CI, 4.53–6.79, p < 0.0001) higher risk of death compared with patients with SCC and 10.38 times (95% CI, 8.28–13.01, p < 0.0001) higher compared with ADC. Cervical cancer is the main cause of death in NECC. As the diagnosis time increased, the risk of death from all causes and cervix cancer gradually decreased. While after at least 10 years of follow‐up time, the highest and most dramatical SMR values were observed for metastasis (SMR, 138.81; 95% CI, 37.82–355.40; p < 0.05) and other cancers as the reason for death has an over 7‐fold higher SMR (SMR: 7.07; 95% CI: 2.60–15.40, p < 0.05) more than 5 years after the cancer diagnosis. Race, FIGO stage, and surgery were independent risk factors for the overall survival (OS) of NECC patients. For the predictive nomogram, the C‐index was 0.711 (95% CI: 0.697–0.725) and was corrected to 0.709 (95% CI: 0.680, 0.737) by bootstrap 1000 resampling validation.

Conclusion

Compared with SCC and ADC, NECC patients have an elevated risk of mortality due to cervical cancer and metastasis. We successfully constructed a prognostic nomogram for patients with NECC. Based on refractoriness and high mortality of NECC, targeted treatment strategies and follow‐up plans should be further developed according to the risk of death and distribution characteristics of CODs.
Impact of intra‐tumoral immunity on predicting response and survival after neoadjuvant cisplatin‐based chemotherapy in patients with muscle invasive bladder cancer
Authors: Mendoza‐Valderrey Alberto , Choe Jane , Kessler Daria M. , Jimenez Gianna , Li Xinmin , Kolker Steven , Allen Warren , Linehan Jennifer A. , Twardowski Przemyslaw W. , Ascierto Maria Libera
Published: August 2024

Background

Neoadjuvant cisplatin‐based chemotherapy (NAC) followed by cystectomy is the standard of care for patients with muscle‐invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). Pathologic complete response (pCR) is associated with favorable outcomes, but only 30%–40% of patients achieve that response. The aim of this study is to investigate the role played by the Tumor and Immune Microenvironment (TIME) in association with the clinical outcome of patients with MIBC undergoing NAC.

Methods

Nineteen patients received NAC and were classified as pCR (n = 10) or non‐pCR (n = 9). Bulk RNA‐seq and immune protein evaluations using Digital Spatial Profiling (DSP) were performed on formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) tumor biopsies collected before NAC (baseline). Immunohistochemistry (IHC) evaluation focused on CD3 and CD20 expression was performed on baseline and end‐of‐treatment (EOT) FFPEs. Baseline peripheral blood was assessed for lymphocyte and neutrophil counts. Kaplan–Meier analyses and Cox PH regression models were used for survival analyses (OS).

Results

In the periphery, pCR patients showed lower neutrophil counts, and neutrophil/ lymphocyte ratio (NLR) when compared to non‐pCR patients. In the tumor microenvironment (TME), gene expression analysis and protein evaluations highlighted an abundance of B cells and CD3+ T cells in pCR versus non‐pCR patients. On the contrary, increased protein expression of ARG1+ cells, and cells expressing immune checkpoints such as LAG3, ICOS, and STING were observed in the TME of patients with non‐pCR.

Conclusions

In the current study, we demonstrated that lower NLR levels and increased CD3+ T cells and B cell infiltration are associated with improved response and long‐term outcomes in patients with MIBC receiving NAC. These findings suggest that the impact of immune environment should be considered in determining the clinical outcome of MIBC patients treated with NAC.
Complex evaluation of serum immunoglobulin levels in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia: Significant increase in IgA after first‐line chemoimmunotherapy
Authors: Vodárek Pavel , Écsiová Dominika , Řezáčová Vladimíra , Souček Ondřej , Šimkovič Martin , Vokurková Doris , Belada David , Žák Pavel , Smolej Lukáš
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The impact of chemoimmunotherapy (CIT) on immunoglobulin (Ig) quantities in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) has not been extensively studied.

Methods

We analyzed Ig levels in 45 stable patients with indolent CLL (without indication for treatment) and 87 patients with progressive disease before first‐line treatment. Fifty‐five patients were evaluated again after the treatment with CIT.

Results

We observed significantly lower levels of all Ig classes and subclasses in patients with progressive disease compared to patients with indolent disease. After treatment, median IgA increased from 0.59 g/L to 0.74 g/L (p = 0.0031). In stable patients, lower IgA2 was associated with shorter time to first treatment, although it did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.056). Shorter overall survival was observed in patients with progressive disease and lower IgG2 (p = 0.043). Surprisingly, among the patients with progressive CLL, unmutated IGHV genes were associated with higher levels of IgG, IgG1 and IgM, while TP53 mutation and/or 17p deletion were associated with higher levels of IgA and IgA1.

Conclusions

CIT may lead to increase in IgA levels. Hypogammaglobulinemia is more common in patients with progressive CLL and unmutated IGHV or TP53 dysfunction.
Examining inequities associated with incarceration among breast cancer patients
Authors: Iwai Yoshiko , Yu Alice Yunzi L. , Thomas Samantha M. , Jones Tyler , Westbrook Kelly E. , Knittel Andrea K. , Fayanju Oluwadamilola M.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Breast cancer treatment patterns and quality of care among patients experiencing incarceration are underexplored. This study examined associations between incarceration and breast cancer disease and treatment characteristics.

Methods

This retrospective analysis was conducted at a tertiary center in the Southeastern United States that serves as the state's safety‐net hospital and primary referral site for the state's prisons. All patients ≥18 years diagnosed with breast cancer between 4/14/2014–12/30/2020 were included. Incarceration status was determined through electronic health record review. Linear regression was used to estimate the association of incarceration with time to treatment. Unadjusted overall survival (OS) was estimated using the Kaplan–Meier method with log‐rank tests to compare groups.

Results

Of the 4329 patients included, 30 (0.7%) were incarcerated at the time of diagnosis or treatment (DI) and 4299 (99.3%) had no incarceration history (NI). Compared to patients who were NI, patients who were DI were younger (p < 0.001), more likely to be unmarried (p < 0.001), and more likely to have family history of breast cancer (p = 0.02). Patients who were DI had an increased time from diagnosis to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (+47.2 days on average, 95% CI 3.9–90.5, p = 0.03) and from diagnosis to surgery (+20 days on average, 95% CI 6.5–33.5, p = 0.02) compared to NI patients. No difference in OS was observed (log‐rank p = 0.70).

Conclusions

Patients who are incarcerated experienced significant delays in breast cancer care. While no differences in mortality were appreciated, these findings are concerning, as they indicate poorer care coordination for patients who are incarcerated. Further research is necessary to understand the full scope of these disparities and elucidate factors that contribute to them.
A multivariate retrospective analysis of high‐grade gliomas: Survival and prognostic factors
Authors: Shi Weiyan , Wang Xuanzhong , Liu Shiyu , Zheng Zhuangzhuang , Dong Lihua , Jiang Xin
Published: August 2024

Objectives

High‐grade gliomas (HGGs) are highly malignant, aggressive, and have a high incidence and mortality rate. The aim of this study was to investigate survival outcomes and prognostic factors in patients with HGGs.

Methods

In this retrospective study, a total of 159 patients with histologically confirmed HGGs were included. The recruitment period was from January 2011 to December 2019. We evaluated patient demographic data, tumor characteristics, treatment methods, immunocytochemistry results, overall survival (OS) time, and progression‐free survival (PFS) time using Kaplan–<>Meier survival analysis with log‐rank testing. Additionally, we employed Cox regression analysis to identify independent factors associated with survival outcomes.

Results

Kaplan–Meier survival analysis revealed that the 1‐, 2‐, and 5‐years OS rates were 81.8%, 50.3%, and 12.6%, respectively. Similarly, the 1‐, 2‐, and 5‐years PFS rates were 50.9%, 22.4%, and 3.1%, respectively. The median OS duration was 35.0 months. The univariate analysis indicated that postoperative pathological classification, grade, and age were significantly associated with patient outcomes (p < 0.01). Among the patients, 147 received concurrent chemoradiotherapy, while 12 did not. The immunohistochemical markers of ki‐67, MGMT, IDH1R132H, and p53 demonstrated statistically significant differences in their prognostic impact (p = 0.001, p = 0.020, p = 0.003, and p = 0.021, respectively). In conclusion, we found that grades, age, pathological classification, ki‐67, MGMT, and IDH1R132H expression were statistically significantly associated with PFS (p < 0.01, p = 0.004, p = 0.003, p = 0.001, p = 0.036, and p = 0.028). Additionally, immunohistochemical expressions of TRIB3 and AURKA were significantly higher in patients with shorter survival (p = 0.015 and p = 0.023).

Conclusions

Tumor grade and the use of concurrent chemoradiotherapy after surgery were independent prognostic factors that significantly influenced patient survival. Additionally, tumor grade and MGMT expression were found to be independent factors affecting progression‐free survival (PFS). Notably, the expression of TRIB3 and AURKA was higher in patients with poor survival outcomes.
Bringing ‘care’ back into locked residential institutions: What can we learn from adolescents' experiences of secure care?
Authors: Turcotte Mathilde , Fenchel François
Published: August 2024

In Canada and elsewhere, efforts have been made to regulate the use of secure care on welfare grounds. Yet, studies raise questions about its usefulness as a psychosocial intervention since it appears to be mostly experienced as a punishment. The main objective of the current study was therefore to explore adolescents' experiences of secure care. We conducted qualitative interviews with 25 adolescents aged 14 to 17 years old while they were placed in secure care units in the province of Quebec, Canada. Uncertainty regarding how to exit secure care was the most important theme that emerged. Participants did not always understand the words used by practitioners to frame their expectations. Adolescents were also uncertain about how to prove they no longer presented a risk to others or themselves while being in locked settings. This uncertainty generated a lot of anger and distress. To get some control back, adolescents chose to just comply and pretend to agree with practitioners. The present paper questions the utility and even legitimacy of secure care as it is currently used. However, we argue that if an ethic of care predominated our conceptualisation of secure care, rather than an ethic of justice, adolescents could feel both secure and cared for.
Thrombus in transit associated with fatal pulmonary thromboembolism in an elderly Ethiopian man following a surgical procedure: A case report
Authors: Ahmed Mohammed , Solela Gashaw
Published: August 2024

Key Clinical Message

Early detection, timely management, and exploration of alternative treatment options are crucial for patients with high‐risk pulmonary thromboembolism, particularly those with thrombus in transit. Furthermore, prophylactic measures against thromboembolic events should be highly considered for patients with predisposing conditions for venous thromboembolism, including surgical procedures.

A thrombus in transit refers to a thrombus that is temporarily lodged in the right‐side chambers of the heart with a high risk of embolization to the pulmonary artery. A 75‐year‐old man presented to the emergency department with a sudden onset of retrosternal chest pain for an hour associated with shortness of breath, which developed a week after transurethral resection of the prostate was done for the indication of benign prostatic hyperplasia. The physical examination was remarkable for tachycardia, tachypnea, hypoxia, and raised jugular venous pressure. Echocardiography revealed a serpiginous echogenic density in the right atrium, protruding through the tricuspid valve and extending to the right ventricle. He was put on facemask oxygen, and he received anticoagulation with unfractionated heparin, followed by thrombolytic therapy with streptokinase. However, the patient experienced cardiac arrest during the administration of thrombolytic therapy, and he died despite all the efforts, most likely due to a massive pulmonary thromboembolism resulting from the thrombus in transit. This case report has brought attention to the rare occurrence of a thrombus in transit complicated by fatal pulmonary thromboembolism. It has also highlighted the significant mortality risk that this condition carries, even with thrombolytic therapy.
The Solid‐State Multi‐Color Fluorescence Switching from a [2.2]Paracyclophane‐Based Triarylborane
Authors: Guo Lian‐Feng , Wang Min , Zhao Cui‐Hua
Published: August 2024

The fluorophores, the fluorescence of which can be switched between multi bright colors in the solid state, show promising applications not only in the sophisticated multicolor display but also in the advanced encryption and anti‐counterfeiting systems. However, it is very challenging to obtain such fluorophores. Herein, we disclose such an example, g‐BPhANMe2‐Cp, which contains an electron‐donating dimethylamino (NMe2) and an electron‐accepting [(2‐dimesitylboryl)phenyl]acetyl at the pseudo‐gem position of [2.2]paracyclophane skeleton. This molecule can display tricolor mechanochromic luminescence (MCL) due to the different responses of the mechanically ground amorphous state to heating and solvent‐fuming. Owing to the absence of intermolecular π‐π interactions in the solid state, the fluorescence efficiency is very high irrespective of its morphological state (ΦF=0.60–0.87). Moreover, this molecule also displays reversible acidochromic luminescence (ACL) by protonation and deprotonation of NMe2 with trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) and triethylamine (TEA), respectively. The protonated sample fluoresces (ΦF=0.31) at much shorter wavelength due to the interruption of intramolecular charge transfer process. Therefore, with the combination of tricolor MCL and ACL properties, the solid‐state emission of g‐BPhANMe2‐Cp can be switched among four bright fluorescence colors of yellow, green, cyan and blue via treatment with appropriate stimulus.
Synthesis of Three‐Dimensional Chiral Covalent Organic Frameworks Using Surfactant as Inducer in Water
Authors: Huang Meiying , Zhou Zhipeng , Dong Xin , Li Yuyao , Yang Yonghang , Zhan Changye , Lu Jiaxing , Wei Xiaoshu , Hong Yuexian , Cheng Weiqi , Liu Wei , Yuan Zhongke , Chen Xudong , Zheng Zhikun
Published: August 2024

Comprehensive Summary

Chiral covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have shown promising applications in asymmetric catalysis, enantiomer separation and chiral recognition due to their tunable structures and permanent porosity. Currently, synthesis of chiral COFs mainly relies on direct‐ synthesis method which requires asymmetric monomers to polymerize and crystallize with symmetric monomers and post‐synthesis method which has been greatly limited to having complete reactions with the micro‐/meso‐sized pores of COFs. Recently, the synthesis of two‐dimensional COFs by covalent replacement of chiral competitor has been reported. Herein, we present the synthesis of three types of 3D COFs with tunable chirality using chiral amino acid derivative surfactant as inducer in water under ambient conditions. The hydrogen bonds and electrostatic interactions between amino acid derivative surfactant and monomers as well as their precursors facilitate the transfer of the chirality.
IBSP Promotes Breast Cancer Bone Metastasis and Proliferation via BMP‐SMAD Signaling Pathway
Authors: Ding Wei , Lv Di , Wang Mengshen , Pei Dongsheng
Published: August 2024

Background

Integrin‐Binding Sialoprotein (IBSP) has been implicated in tumor progression across various cancers. However, the specific role of IBSP in breast cancer remains underexplored. There is a need to investigate the mechanisms by which IBSP influences breast cancer progression and its potential as a therapeutic target.

Aims

This study aims to elucidate the role of IBSP in breast cancer, particularly its impact on tumor progression and its relationship with prognosis. We also seek to understand the underlying mechanisms, including the involvement of the BMP‐SMAD signaling pathway, and to explore the potential of targeting IBSP for therapeutic interventions.

Methods and Results

Overexpression of IBSP in breast cancer cells led to increased migration and invasion, whereas IBSP interference reduced these behaviors, indicating its role in enhancing tumor progression. Differentially expressed genes were significantly enriched in the BMP‐SMAD signaling pathway, a critical pathway for osteogenic differentiation. Transcription Factor Binding: Dual luciferase reporter assays demonstrated that SMAD4 specifically binds to the IBSP promoter, establishing a regulatory link between SMAD4 and IBSP expression. Silencing IBSP (si‐IBSP) mitigated the effects of SMAD4‐induced tumor proliferation, confirming that IBSP acts as a downstream target of SMAD4 in the BMP signaling pathway.

Conclusion

Our study reveals that IBSP plays a significant role in breast cancer progression through the BMP‐SMAD4 signaling pathway. Targeting IBSP could be a promising therapeutic strategy for breast cancer treatment. Further research into IBSP inhibitors may offer new avenues for improving treatment outcomes and managing breast cancer more effectively.