bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bored and spoiling for a flight: capabilities lost and found in lockdown
Authors: Sommer Doris
Published: November 2023

Human beings are dynamic; our innate faculties beg to engage in activities. To achieve fullness and human dignity, people “convert” personal capabilities into active “functionings,” Amartya Sen explains. This means that staying still is not a normal state. It can feel like punishment. Forced inactivity will generate resentment, resistance, and boredom that can fester until pent-up energy explodes violently, or implodes in depression. Boredom defaults on capabilities and resources in many cases. In other cases, stillness is a gift. It can stimulate the imagination to fill in emptiness with memories and new explorations. Either boredom builds toward doing damage, or it releases energy to think and to create. What people don't do is stay put, mentally or physically. Authorities-including police, judges, teachers, parents –should take this dynamic human condition into account and reconsider the effects of conventional command and control policies. Then they can choose between violence and creativity as alternative outlets for the energy that boredom generates. Short of facing up to human dynamism, decision-making may continue to favor strong-arm tactics, which trigger the violence and pain that policing is meant to mitigate. Is it surprising that apparently peaceful peoplebecome enraged in lockdown conditions? Do adults wonder why students drop-out of school and suffer escalating rates of depression and suicide? Boredom is certainly not the only cause for these disastrous effects, but to ignore it risks remaining complicit with processes that perpetuate personal and collective dysfunctions. Complicity with harmful practices will miss opportunities to channel frustrated energy toward developing human capabilities. Authorities are responsible for promoting peaceful development. We are all responsible.[2] Normally, people stay busy with routine activities. We work, play, attend to family and to friends. Particular activities have even become our public badges of identity, as is evident in surnames (Cooper, Baker, Taylor, Farmer, etc.) that trace back to work that ancestors answered to. Lockdown during COVID-19 meant that many otherwise occupied people had few outlets for energy. Those who knew how to meditate managed to assuage anxiety through contemplation and the pursuit of ideal emptiness.
Brain Death and Organ Transplantation in Nepal: Navigating Cultural, Legal, and Ethical Landscapes
Authors: Atreya Alok , Bastola Priska , Bhandari Swasti , Nepal Samata , Bhandari Prawesh Singh
Published: November 2023

Organ transplantation after brain death is challenging in Nepal due to cultural beliefs, legal frameworks, and ethical considerations. The Human Body Organ Transplantation (Regulation and Prohibition) Act (HBOTA) has not met with substantial success after its amendment. This review critically appraises the current state of brain death and organ transplantation in Nepal. It explores challenges, evaluates progress, and provides recommendations. Literature review of databases was conducted to find articles on brain death, organ donation, and transplantation in Nepal. Analysis of cultural, legal, ethical, and practical factors influencing implementation. Key challenges include limited awareness, religious beliefs, infrastructure gaps, and family consent barriers. HBOTA amendments in 2016 enabled brain death donations, however, donation rates remain low. Strategies are needed to improve public education, resources, personnel training, and collaboration. Cultural sensitivity and stakeholder engagement are crucial. A multifaceted approach addressing cultural, legal, ethical and practical dimensions is essential to improve organ donation rates in Nepal. Despite progress, substantial challenges persist requiring evidence-based strategies focused on awareness, capacity building, policy improvements, and culturally appropriate community engagement.
A Comprehensive Study on the Aerodynamic Characteristics of Electrically Controlled Rotor Using Lattice Boltzmann Method
Authors: Wang Lingzhi , Su Taoyong
Published: November 2023

An electrically controlled rotor (ECR) is a kind of swashplateless rotor that implements the primary control via the trailing-edge flap system instead of a swashplate and demonstrates great potential in vibration reduction and noise alleviation. In this paper, the mesoscopic numerical simulation method known as the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) is employed to investigate the aerodynamic characteristics of an ECR. In the LBM, the discretized Boltzmann transport equation is solved to simulate the macroscopic motion of the fluid, and the D3Q27 model is applied for this study. The effects of the flap deflection on the ECR aerodynamic characteristics can be accurately included with the appropriate refined wall lattice resolution. On this basis, the adaptive wake-refinement strategy is applied to track the evolution of the wake and adequately capture details of the wake structure in the wake flow field. Based on this method, an aerodynamic analysis model for the ECR can be established on the XFlow simulation platform. The aerodynamic analysis model is validated, and the results indicate that the LBM can accurately capture the details of the rotor flow field and calculate blade aerodynamic load, as well as predict the downwash of the rotor. Therefore, based on this model, the ECR aerodynamic characteristics under hovering and forward flight conditions are analyzed, and the effects of the flap deflection on the wake structure, induced inflow, and disc load can be captured. The results indicate that a relatively large flap deflection required to trim the rotor will cause the additional intense flap wake vortex in the ECR wake flow field, apart from the concentrated vorticity at the blade tip and root demonstrated in the conventional rotor wake flow field, and thus significantly change the distributions of the disc-induced inflow and aerodynamic load.
The Effects of Acute Bisphenol A Toxicity on the Hematological Parameters, Hematopoiesis, and Kidney Histology of Zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Smorodinskaya Svetlana , Kochetkov Nikita , Gavrilin Kirill , Nikiforov-Nikishin Dmitry , Reznikova Diana , Vatlin Aleksey , Klimuk Anastasia , Odorskaya Maya , Nikiforov-Nikishin Alexei , Ponomarev Andrey , Marsova Maria , Danilenko Valery
Published: November 2023

In this study, the results of evaluating the acute toxicity of Bisphenol A on Danio rerio are presented, encompassing peripheral blood parameters, the composition of hematopoietic cells of erythroid and myeloid lines in the head kidney, and data from histological studies. The LC50 values of Bisphenol A for adult zebrafish individuals for 12, 24, and 48–96 h were determined, which were 18.04, 7.55, and 6.22 mg/L, respectively. The study includes data on the morphology and quantitative frequency of specific cells in the hematopoietic tissue of the head kidney, along with the consideration of adaptive mechanisms in hematopoiesis under BPA exposure. The application of polynomial regression analysis to reveal the concentration–effect relationship for some hematological and histological parameters was demonstrated. Significant increases in the frequency of erythrocyte nuclear abnormalities were observed at BPA concentrations of 6 and 8 mg/L, which indicates a genotoxic effect. BPA’s impact on fish peripheral blood parameters manifested as an increase in the number of erythrocytes (RBC) and immature erythrocytes, as well as a decrease in the number of lymphocytes. The most notable pathological changes in the head kidney’s hematopoietic tissue included circulatory disturbances and the formation of inflammation/degradation foci, as confirmed by histopathologic indices. At BPA concentrations of 2 and 4 mg/L, the observed changes were compensated for by hematopoietic adaptation mechanisms; however, at concentrations of 6 and 8 mg/L, acute systemic toxicity was evident.
Environmental DNA: The First Snapshot of the Vertebrate Biodiversity in Three Sicilian Lakes
Authors: Mauro Manuela , Lo Valvo Mario , Vazzana Mirella , Radovic Slobodanka , Vizzini Aiti , Badalamenti Rosario , Hornsby Lucie Branwen , Arizza Vincenzo
Published: November 2023

Freshwater ecosystems play a key role in global diversity and are subject to a series of anthropic impacts, often leading to biodiversity loss. The organisms inhabiting these sites continuously release DNA into the environment through cells, excrement, gametes and/or decomposing matter; thus, evaluation of this eDNA could revolutionize the monitoring of biodiversity. In this study, environmental DNA metabarcoding was used for the first time in three Sicilian lakes: Lake Poma, Piana degli Albanesi Lake and Lake Scanzano. Results obtained provide the first snapshot of vertebrate biodiversity in these three lakes, where little is known, to provide valuable information useful for creating a baseline of knowledge regarding the biodiversity in these three lakes. Another important result was the detection of marine species, most likely due to some kind of anthropogenic contamination. Environmental DNA is a useful tool to evaluate both biodiversity and the ecological status of the environment; it has the potential to complement traditional methods, and the use of both approaches may offer a more comprehensive understanding of the ecosystem.
GPT-Empowered Personalized eLearning System for Programming Languages
Authors: Jin Jennifer , Kim Mira
Published: November 2023

The eLearning approach to programming language instruction has gained widespread acceptance due to advantages such as accessibility, temporal flexibility, and content reusability. However, the current eLearning for programming predominantly employs the delivery of one-size-fits-all content, engendering elevated costs in both the development of language coursework and administration of eLearning sessions, which includes the labor-intensive task of grading student submissions. A compelling research question to consider is how to construct an eLearning system capable of delivering personalized, student-centric content, automating the generation of coursework elements, and eliminating the need for instructor involvement in the management of eLearning sessions. Our approach to delivering a definite solution to the question involves the utilization of a suite of advanced software technologies: GPT to dynamically generate course contents/components, prompt engineering to personalize course content for each individual student, and autonomous computing to manage eLearning sessions without the need for human intervention. The research results encompass the design of an eLearning framework covering all programming languages, a fully functional Python-based implementation, seamless integration with ChatGPT for dynamic content generation, a high degree of content personalization, and the elimination of manual effort required for managing eLearning sessions.
Selective Precipitation of Rare Earth Double Sulfate Salts from Industrial Ni–MH Battery Leachates: Impact of Downstream Processing on Product Quality
Authors: Guzhov Boris , Cassayre Laurent , Barnabé Antoine , Coppey Nicolas , Biscans Béatrice
Published: November 2023

This work focuses on the recovery of rare earth elements (REEs = La, Ce, Nd, Pr) from spent nickel–metal hydride batteries by hydrometallurgical processing. The REEs were precipitated in the form of sodium-lanthanide double sulfate salts by adding Na2SO4 to a leach liquor prepared from industrially processed spent batteries. The objectives were to better understand the parameters driving the purity of the product and to identify the phases involved, as well as their crystallographic structure. The methodology included experiments performed in a 2 L reactor, thermodynamic calculations and product characterization. We confirmed that high REE precipitation yields (>95%) can be achieved under a wide range of hydrodynamic conditions. Furthermore, we demonstrated and quantified how appropriately washing the product allows for a significant reduction in nickel losses while maintaining control over REE product purity. Finally, using X-ray Diffraction analyses, it was established that REEs form a solid solution with a chemical formula (Na0.9K0.1)(La0.65Ce0.24Pr0.04Nd0.07)(SO4)2·H2O, which has not been reported so far.
Silicon Negative Electrodes—What Can Be Achieved for Commercial Cell Energy Densities
Authors: Yourey William
Published: November 2023

Historically, lithium cobalt oxide and graphite have been the positive and negative electrode active materials of choice for commercial lithium-ion cells. It has only been over the past ~15 years in which alternate positive electrode materials have been used. As new positive and negative active materials, such as NMC811 and silicon-based electrodes, are being developed, it is crucial to evaluate the potential of these materials at a stack or cell level to fully understand the possible increases in energy density which can be achieved. Comparisons were made between electrode stack volumetric energy densities for designs containing either LCO or NMC811 positive electrode and silicon-graphite negative electrodes, where the weight percentages of silicon were evaluated between zero and ninety percent. Positive electrode areal loadings were evaluated between 2.00 and 5.00 mAh cm−2. NMC811 at 200 mAh g−1 has the ability to increase stack energy density between 11% and 20% over LCO depending on percentage silicon and areal loading. At a stack level, the percentage of silicon added results in large increases in energy density but delivers a diminishing return, with the greatest increase observed as the percentage of silicon is increased from zero percent to approximately 25–30%.
Influence of the Biotechnological Process of Mezcal Fermentation on Yeast Diversity in Four palenques of Oaxaca, Mexico
Authors: Espinoza-Martinez Victor Adrian , Alvarez-Gutierrez Peggy Elizabeth , Palma-Cruz Felipe de Jesus , Enriquez-Valencia Raul , Ramirez-Lopez Marcos Pedro , Lopez-Sanchez Claudia , Vazquez-Lopez Hector Gilberto
Published: November 2023

Mezcal is an alcoholic beverage obtained by distilling musts and juices fermented by spontaneous or cultivated microorganisms, which are extracted from ripe stems of cooked Agaves and harvested in Mexico. Both raw material and production practices differ markedly between producing regions, locations, and even factories, resulting in a very distinctive set of products. The state of Oaxaca is the top producer worldwide of mezcal, and 35,000 families are involved in the production of this aromatic alcoholic beverage. Fermentation is the most important stage of mezcal production and is performed by different yeast and bacteria. In this study, the yeast strains were isolated from fermentation containers of four mezcal factories (palenques) in Oaxaca. Taxonomic determination was verified by ITS, and an analysis of the biotechnological process through personal interviews and principal component analysis was performed. Eighteen different isolates of eight different genera (Candida, Clavispora, Meyerozyma, Metarhizium, Pichia, Saccharomyces, Torulaspora, and Yarrowia) were identified. According to the biotechnological process analysis and principal component analysis, the artisanal palenques (palenques 1, 3, and 4) are more like each other than and differ radically from palenque 2, which is where the artisanal process has changed towards technical production.
Comparison of Bone Bruise Pattern Epidemiology between Anterior Cruciate Ligament Rupture and Patellar Dislocation Patients—Implications of Injury Mechanism
Authors: Dai Ruilan , Wu Yue , Jiang Yanfang , Huang Hongshi , Yan Wenqiang , Shi Huijuan , Meng Qingyang , Ren Shuang , Ao Yingfang
Published: November 2023

Different bone bruise patterns observed using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) after non-contact anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture and lateral patellar dislocation may indicate different knee injury mechanisms. In this study, 77 ACL ruptures and 77 patellar dislocations in knee MR images taken from patients with bone bruises at our institution between August 2020 and March 2022 were selected and analyzed. In order to determine typical bone bruising patterns following by ACL rupture and patellar dislocation, sagittal- and transverse-plane images were used to determine bone bruise locations in the directions of medial-lateral and superior-inferior with MR images. The presence, intensity, and location of the bone bruises in specific areas of the femur and tibial after ACL rupture and patellar dislocation were recorded. Relative bone bruise patterns after ACL rupture and patellar dislocation were classified. The results showed that there were four kinds of bone bruise patterns (1-, 2-, 3-, and 4- bone bruises) after ACL rupture. The most common two patterns after ACL rupture were 3- bone bruises (including the lateral femoral condyle and both the lateral-medial tibial plateau, LF + BT; both the lateral-medial femoral condyle and the lateral tibial plateau, BF + LT; and the medial femoral condyle and both the medial and lateral tibial plateau, MF + BT) followed by 4- bone bruises (both the lateral-medial femoral condyle and the tibial plateau, BF + BT), 2- bone bruises (the lateral femoral condyle and tibial plateau, LF + LT; the medial femoral condyle and the lateral tibial plateau, MF + LT; the lateral femoral condyle and the medial tibial plateau, LF + MT; the medial femoral condyle and the tibial plateau, MF + MT; both the lateral-medial tibial plateau, 0 + BT), and 1- bone bruise (only the lateral tibial plateau, 0 + LT). There was only a 1- bone bruise (the latera femoral condyle and medial patella bone bruise) for patellar dislocation, and the most common pattern of patellar dislocation was in the inferior medial patella and the lateral anterior inferior femur. The results suggested that bone bruise patterns after ACL rupture and patellar dislocation are completely different. There were four kinds of bone bruise patterns after non-contact ACL rupture, while there was only one kind of bone bruise pattern after patellar dislocation in patients, which was in the inferior medial patella and lateral anterior inferior femur.
Personality Disorders and Traits of ABC Clusters in Fibromyalgia in a Neurological Setting
Authors: Romanov Dmitry V. , Nasonova Tatiana I. , Isaikin Aleksey I. , Filileeva Olga V. , Sheyanov Andrey M. , Iuzbashian Polina G. , Voronova Evgenia I. , Parfenov Vladimir A.
Published: November 2023

Background: Evidence suggests that there is substantial comorbidity between fibromyalgia and Axis II pathology (i.e., personality disorders—PDs). The aim of the current study was to find out the exact cluster (A, B, C) of PDs or traits that are more prominent in FM and may be predictors of FM diagnosis. Methods: Data from 86 subjects (53 with FM and 33 controls without FM) were analyzed in an observational, cross-sectional, comparative study in a neurological setting. The assessment of categorical PDs and traits was performed independently with the Structured Clinical Interview for Personality Disorders (SCID-II). Binary logistic regression was used to determine FM predictors among PD traits. Results: Compared with controls, FM patients had a higher rate of PD diagnoses (56.7 vs. 18.2%, p < 0.001). However, the rate was significantly higher only for borderline PD diagnosis (28.3% vs. 6.1% p < 0.05). The binary logistic regression analysis showed that schizotypal and schizoid (cluster A), borderline (cluster B), and dependent (cluster C) personality traits may be significant predictors of fibromyalgia (Nagelkerke R2 = 0.415). Conclusions: Our results may reflect the association of FM with personality traits of all three PD clusters: A (eccentric), B (dramatic), and C (anxious). However, the most consistent evidence seems to be for borderline PD.
Dysuricemia
Authors: Nakayama Akiyoshi , Kurajoh Masafumi , Toyoda Yu , Takada Tappei , Ichida Kimiyoshi , Matsuo Hirotaka
Published: November 2023

Gout results from elevated serum urate (SU) levels, or hyperuricemia, and is a globally widespread and increasingly burdensome disease. Recent studies have illuminated the pathophysiology of gout/hyperuricemia and its epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, and complications. The genetic involvement of urate transporters and enzymes is also proven. URAT1, a molecular therapeutic target for gout/hyperuricemia, was initially derived from research into hereditary renal hypouricemia (RHUC). RHUC is often accompanied by complications such as exercise-induced acute kidney injury, which indicates the key physiological role of uric acid. Several studies have also revealed its physiological role as both an anti-oxidant and a pro-oxidant, acting as both a scavenger and a generator of reactive oxygen species (ROSs). These discoveries have prompted research interest in SU and xanthine oxidoreductase (XOR), an enzyme that produces both urate and ROSs, as status or progression biomarkers of chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular disease. The notion of “the lower, the better” is therefore incorrect; a better understanding of uric acid handling and metabolism/transport comes from an awareness that excessively high and low levels both cause problems. We summarize here the current body of evidence, demonstrate that uric acid is much more than a metabolic waste product, and finally propose the novel disease concept of “dysuricemia” on the path toward “normouricemia”, or optimal SU level, to take advantage of the dual roles of uric acid. Our proposal should help to interpret the spectrum from hypouricemia to hyperuricemia/gout as a single disease category.
Declarative Learning Mechanisms Support Declarative but Not Probabilistic Feedback-Based Learning in Children with Developmental Language Disorder (DLD)
Authors: Gul Asiya , Baron Lauren S. , Black Kelsey B. , Schafer Annika L. , Arbel Yael
Published: November 2023

Declarative and probabilistic feedback-based learning was evaluated in 8–12-year-old school-age children with developmental language disorder (DLD; n = 14) and age-matched children with typical development (TD; n = 15). Children performed a visual two-choice word-learning task and a visual probabilistic classification task while their electroencephalogram (EEG) was recorded non-invasively from the scalp. Behavioral measures of accuracy and response to feedback, and electrophysiological responses to feedback were collected and compared between the two groups. While behavioral data indicated poorer performance by children with DLD in both learning paradigms, and similar response patterns to positive and negative feedback, electrophysiological data highlighted processing patterns in the DLD group that differed by task. More specifically, in this group, feedback processing in the context of declarative learning, which is known to be dominated by the medial temporal lobe (MTL), was associated with enhanced N170, an event-related brain potential (ERP) associated with MTL activation. The N170 amplitude was found to be correlated with declarative task performance in the DLD group. During probabilistic learning, known to be governed by the striatal-based learning system, the feedback-related negativity (FRN) ERP, which is the product of the cortico-striatal circuit dominated feedback processing. Within the context of probabilistic learning, enhanced N170 was associated with poor learning in the TD group, suggesting that MTL activation during probabilistic learning disrupts learning. These results are interpreted within the context of a proposed feedback parity hypothesis suggesting that in children with DLD, the system that dominates learning (i.e., MTL during declarative learning and the striatum during probabilistic learning) dominates and supports feedback processing.
Quantitative Analysis of Bone, Blood Vessels, and Metastases in Mice Tibiae Using Synchrotron Radiation Micro-Computed Tomography
Authors: Xu Hao , Langer Max
Published: November 2023

Bone metastases are one of the most dangerous consequences of breast cancer. Early diagnosis and treatment would slow down the development of the disease and increase the survival rates of patients. Bone micro-vasculature is believed to play a major role in the development of bone metastases. It could be used for both diagnosis and as a therapeutic target. Synchrotron radiation micro-computed tomography (SR-µCT) with a contrast agent of blood vessels has been used to analyze the bone vasculature both in healthy and in metastatic bone. However, few studies have investigated the local features of blood vessels around metastases so far. For this purpose, the metastases first need to be automatically segmented. This is a challenging task, however, since the metastases do not contribute a specific contrast to the three-dimensional (3D) SR-µCT images. Here, we propose a new method for the simultaneous segmentation of bone, blood vessels, and metastases from contrast enhanced 3D SR-µCT images based on the nnU-Net architecture. In this study, we showed that only minimal training data was required to achieve a high quality of segmentation. The proposed method allowed for the automatic segmentation of metastases and provided an improved segmentation of bone and blood vessels compared to previous methods while being much more efficient to apply once trained. Further, the automatic segmentation allowed for the measurement of vascular metastases interdistance and to restrict measurements to volumes of interest around the metastases. Finally, we quantitatively analyzed blood vessel parameters locally around metastases. This allowed for the demonstration that a combined anti-angiogenic treatment significantly decreased the volume and thickness of blood vessels close to metastases. The proposed method showed the capacity of the method to reveal new aspects of the blood vessel structure interaction with metastases. This could be further used to both define new targets for precocious detection of metastases as well as to study the kinetics of metastasis development in bone and the action of drugs on this process.
Effects of Physical Activity Interventions on Self-Perceived Health Status among Lung Cancer Patients: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Barrera-Garcimartín Alejandro , Sánchez-Polán Miguel , López-Martín Ana , Echarri-González María José , Marquina Moisés , Barakat Rubén , Cordente-Martínez Carlos , Refoyo Ignacio
Published: November 2023

Patients with lung cancer may experience deterioration in quality of life due to adverse effects caused by their disease and its treatment. Although exercise programs have been shown to improve quality of life in certain stages of the disease, the overall impact on this population is unknown. The objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of physical activity on the self-perception of quality of life, physical wellbeing and dyspnea in lung cancer patients. Thirteen articles were included. Five meta-analyses were performed using the standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) to evaluate the target outcomes. Results showed significant differences in quality of life (p = 0.01; SMD = 0.43, 95% CI = 0.10, 0.75), physical functioning (p = 0.01; SMD = 0.27, 95% CI = 0.06, 0.49) and physical wellbeing (p = 0.01; SMD = 0.37, 95% CI = 0.08, 0.67) in favour of participants who have undergone the programme compared to those who have not, without significant differences between the two groups in dyspnea. This study shows how physical activity interventions could have positive effects on physical functioning and physical wellbeing but could also be effective for improving quality of life in patients with lung cancer.
The Clinical Significance of Circulating Lymphocytes Morphology in Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma As Determined by a Novel, Highly Sensitive Microscopy
Authors: Fridberg Gil , Horn Galit , Globerson Levin Anat , Benisty Dan , Kay Sigi , Glait-Santar Chen , Perry Chava , Ram Ron , Avivi Irit , Katz Ben-Zion
Published: November 2023

Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell (CAR T) therapy has become the preferable treatment in relapsed/refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphomas (DLBCL) patients. Detection of CAR Ts in peripheral blood smear (PBS) is challenging due to insufficient data regarding their morphology and low sensitivity. The morphological evolution of CAR Ts along their production process, and in patients, was established by Full-Field Morphology (FFM), a novel digital microscopy approach that provides highly sensitive PBS analysis. At day 8 of production, 42.7 ± 10.8% of the CAR T transduced cells exhibited activated morphology compared with 9.3 ± 3.8% in untransduced cells. Moreover, engagement of transduced CAR Ts with target cells resulted in further morphological transformation into activated morphology (83 ± 5.6% of the cells). In patients, the average number of day 5 CAR Ts, and their sustained presence, were significantly higher in patients obtaining complete response. A high number of activated morphology CAR Ts at day 14 was associated with prolonged cytokine release storm. Overall, CAR Ts exhibited heterogeneous morphology, with the activated morphology attributed predominantly to transduced cells following engagement with target cells. Post-transfusion CAR T detection was associated with increased complete responses. FFM CAR T surveillance in PBS may serve as a simple inexpensive method to provide clinically relevant insights into this treatment modality.
Targeting Metabolic Vulnerabilities to Overcome Prostate Cancer Resistance: Dual Therapy with Apalutamide and Complex I Inhibition
Authors: Baumgartner Valentin , Schaer Dominik , Eberli Daniel , Salemi Souzan
Published: November 2023

Prostate cancer (PCa) often becomes drug-treatment-resistant, posing a significant challenge to effective management. Although initial treatment with androgen deprivation therapy can control advanced PCa, subsequent resistance mechanisms allow tumor cells to continue growing, necessitating alternative approaches. This study delves into the specific metabolic dependencies of different PCa subtypes and explores the potential synergistic effects of combining androgen receptor (AR) inhibition (ARN with mitochondrial complex I inhibition (IACS)). We examined the metabolic behaviors of normal prostate epithelial cells (PNT1A), androgen-sensitive cells (LNCaP and C4-2), and androgen-independent cells (PC-3) when treated with ARN, IACS, or a combination. The results uncovered distinct mitochondrial activities across PCa subtypes, with androgen-dependent cells exhibiting heightened oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). The combination of ARN and IACS significantly curbed cell proliferation in multiple PCa cell lines. Cellular bioenergetics analysis revealed that IACS reduced OXPHOS, while ARN hindered glycolysis in certain PCa cells. Additionally, galactose supplementation disrupted compensatory glycolytic mechanisms induced by metabolic reprogramming. Notably, glucose-deprived conditions heightened the sensitivity of PCa cells to mitochondrial inhibition, especially in the resistant PC-3 cells. Overall, this study illuminates the intricate interplay between AR signaling, metabolic adaptations, and treatment resistance in PCa. The findings offer valuable insights into subtype-specific metabolic profiles and propose a promising strategy to target PCa cells by exploiting their metabolic vulnerabilities.
Extracellular Vesicles: Biological Packages That Modulate Tumor Cell Invasion
Authors: Schmidtmann Madison , D’Souza-Schorey Crislyn
Published: November 2023

Tumor progression, from early-stage invasion to the formation of distal metastases, relies on the capacity of tumor cells to modify the extracellular matrix (ECM) and communicate with the surrounding stroma. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) provide an important means to regulate cell invasion due to the selective inclusion of cargoes such as proteases and matrix proteins into EVs that can degrade or modify the ECM. EVs have also been shown to facilitate intercellular communication in the tumor microenvironment through paracrine signaling, which can impact ECM invasion by cancer cells. Here, we describe the current knowledge of EVs as facilitators of tumor invasion by virtue of their effects on proteolytic degradation and modification of the ECM, their ability to educate the stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment, and their role as mediators of long-range communication aiding in cell invasion and matrix remodeling at secondary sites.
Comment on Golčić et al. Evaluation of Systemic Treatment Options for Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumours. Cancers 2023, 15, 4081
Authors: Chen Anni , Zhang Xinhua
Published: November 2023

We carefully read the article written by Golčić et al. “Evaluation of Systemic Treatment Options for Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumours” [...]
Reply to Chen, A.; Zhang, X. Comment on “Golčić et al. Evaluation of Systemic Treatment Options for Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumours. Cancers 2023, 15, 4081”
Authors: Golčić Marin , Jones Robin L. , Huang Paul , Napolitano Andrea
Published: November 2023

We appreciate the comment made by Chen et al. on our manuscript evaluating the systemic treatment options for gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GIST) [...]
Surface-Energy-Driven Tin Whisker Growth on Pure Tin
Authors: Liu Yushuang , Huang Miaoyan , Chen Yue , Liu Ying , Zhu Yumeng , Cui Limin
Published: November 2023

Spontaneous Sn whisker growth, as a reliability issue in electronic assemblies, has drawn much attention in the past several decades. However, the underlying mechanism is still ambiguous. Herein, the growth of Sn whiskers on pure Sn with different specific surface areas was studied to elucidate the effect of surface energy on Sn whisker growth. Though fabricated and cultivated using the same parameters, it was found that Sn whiskers were obtained on the sample of nano-Sn, which possesses excess surface energy, while no whiskers were observed on the sample of micro-Sn, indicating that surface energy plays a significant role in Sn whisker growth. In addition, the whiskering phenomenon is confirmed to be an abnormal recrystallization process according to the microstructure of the whisker root. Therefore, a Sn whisker growth mechanism companied with an abnormal recrystallization process is proposed, which is driven by the excess surface energy. This work provides a new perspective on understanding the long-standing Sn whiskering problem.
An Advanced Software Platform and Algorithmic Framework for Mobile DBH Data Acquisition
Authors: Zhang Jiaming , Liang Hanyan , Tong Siyuan , Zhou Yunhe , Kan Jiangming
Published: November 2023

Rapid and precise tree Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) measurement is pivotal in forest inventories. While the recent advancements in LiDAR and Structure from Motion (SFM) technologies have paved the way for automated DBH measurements, the significant equipment costs and the complexity of operational procedures continue to constrain the ubiquitous adoption of these technologies for real-time DBH assessments. In this research, we introduce KAN-Forest, a real-time DBH measurement and key point localization algorithm utilizing RGB-D (Red, Green, Blue-Depth) imaging technology. Firstly, we improved the YOLOv5-seg segmentation module with a Channel and Spatial Attention (CBAM) module, augmenting its efficiency in extracting the tree’s edge features in intricate forest scenarios. Subsequently, we devised an image processing algorithm for real-time key point localization and DBH measurement, leveraging historical data to fine-tune current frame assessments. This system facilitates real-time image data upload via wireless LAN for immediate host computer processing. We validated our approach on seven sample plots, achieving bbAP50 and segAP50 scores of: 90.0%(+3.0%), 90.9%(+0.9%), respectively with the improved YOLOv5-seg model. The method exhibited a DBH estimation RMSE of 17.61∼54.96 mm (R2=0.937), and secured 78% valid DBH samples at a 59 FPS. Our system stands as a cost-effective, portable, and user-friendly alternative to conventional forest survey techniques, maintaining accuracy in real-time measurements compared to SFM- and LiDAR-based algorithms. The integration of WLAN and its inherent scalability facilitates deployment on Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs) to improve the efficiency of forest inventory. We have shared the algorithms and datasets on Github for peer evaluations.
Enhancements in BlenderBot 3: Expanding Beyond a Singular Model Governance and Boosting Generational Performance
Authors: Kobza Ondrej , Herel David , Cuhel Jan , Gargiani Tommaso , Pichl Jan , Marek Petr , Konrad Jakub , Sedivy Jan
Published: November 2023

This paper provides a pioneering examination and enhancement of generative chat models, with a specific focus on the BlenderBot 3 model. Through meticulous interaction with a diverse set of human participants, we dissected the fundamental components of these models, unveiling several deficiencies, including long-term memory and entity recognition. Leveraging these insights, we engineered refined, streamlined iterations, culminating in a chatbot that transcends the capabilities of all existing models. Our work follows Occam’s razor principle and proves that, for tasks with relatively low complexity, using large overparameterized models instead of smaller ones does not bring significant benefits but increases latency, which may result in a lowered overall user experience. In upholding our commitment to transparency and the progression of shared knowledge, we have made our improved model universally accessible through open-source distribution.
Alu Methylation Patterns in Type 1 Diabetes: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Katsanou Andromachi , Kostoulas Charilaos A. , Liberopoulos Evangelos , Tsatsoulis Agathocles , Georgiou Ioannis , Tigas Stelios
Published: November 2023

Evidence suggests that genome-wide hypomethylation may promote genomic instability and cellular senescence, leading to chronic complications in people with diabetes mellitus. Limited data are however available on the Alu methylation status in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Methods: We investigated DNA methylation levels and patterns of Alu methylation in the peripheral blood of 36 patients with T1D and 29 healthy controls, matched for age and sex, by using the COmbined Bisulfite Restriction Analysis method (COBRA). Results: Total Alu methylation rate (mC) was similar between patients with T1D and controls (67.3% (64.4–70.9%) vs. 68.0% (62.0–71.1%), p = 0.874). However, patients with T1D had significantly higher levels of the partial Alu methylation pattern (mCuC + uCmC) (41.9% (35.8–45.8%) vs. 36.0% (31.7–40.55%), p = 0.004) compared to healthy controls. In addition, a positive correlation between levels of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and the partially methylated loci (mCuC + uCmC) was observed (Spearman’s rho = 0.293, p = 0.018). Furthermore, significant differences were observed between patients with T1D diagnosed before and after the age of 15 years regarding the total methylation mC, the methylated pattern mCmC and the unmethylated pattern uCuC (p = 0.040, p = 0.044 and p = 0.040, respectively). Conclusions: In conclusion, total Alu methylation rates were similar, but the partial Alu methylation pattern (mCuC + uCmC) was significantly higher in patients with T1D compared to healthy controls. Furthermore, this pattern was associated positively with the levels of HbA1c and negatively with the age at diagnosis.
Human Endogenous Retrovirus-K (HML-2)-Related Genetic Variation: Human Genome Diversity and Disease
Authors: Shin Wonseok , Mun Seyoung , Han Kyudong
Published: November 2023

Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) comprise a significant portion of the human genome, making up roughly 8%, a notable comparison to the 2–3% represented by coding sequences. Numerous studies have underscored the critical role and importance of HERVs, highlighting their diverse and extensive influence on the evolution of the human genome and establishing their complex correlation with various diseases. Among HERVs, the HERV-K (HML-2) subfamily has recently attracted significant attention, integrating into the human genome after the divergence between humans and chimpanzees. Its insertion in the human genome has received considerable attention due to its structural and functional characteristics and the time of insertion. Originating from ancient exogenous retroviruses, these elements succeeded in infecting germ cells, enabling vertical transmission and existing as proviruses within the genome. Remarkably, these sequences have retained the capacity to form complete viral sequences, exhibiting activity in transcription and translation. The HERV-K (HML-2) subfamily is the subject of active debate about its potential positive or negative effects on human genome evolution and various pathologies. This review summarizes the variation, regulation, and diseases in human genome evolution arising from the influence of HERV-K (HML-2).
Sll1252 Coordinates Electron Transport between Plastoquinone and Cytochrome b6/f Complex in Synechocystis PCC 6803
Authors: Balaga Radha Rani , Itoh Fumihiro , Chauhan Suraj , Mandal Mukulika , Krishna Pilla Sankara , Suzuki Iwane , Prakash Jogadhenu S. S.
Published: November 2023

A mutant, Δsll1252ins, was generated to functionally characterize Sll1252. Δsll1252ins exhibited a slow-growth phenotype at 70 µmol photons m−2 s−1 and glucose sensitivity. In Δsll1252ins, the rate of PSII activity was not affected, whereas the whole chain electron transport activity was reduced by 45%. The inactivation of sll1252 led to the upregulation of genes, which were earlier reported to be induced in DBMIB-treated wild-type, suggesting that Sll1252 may be involved in electron transfer from the reduced-PQ pool to Cyt b6/f. The inhibitory effect of DCMU on PSII activity was similar in both wild-type and Δsll1252ins. However, the concentration of DBMIB for 50% inhibition of whole chain electron transport activity was 140 nM for Δsll1252ins and 300 nM for wild-type, confirming the site of action of Sll1252. Moreover, the elevated level of the reduced-PQ pool in Δsll1252ins supports that Sll1252 functions between the PQ pool and Cyt b6/f. Interestingly, we noticed that Δsll1252ins reverted to wild-type phenotype by insertion of natural transposon, ISY523, at the disruption site. Δsll1252-Ntrn, expressing only the C-terminal region of Sll1252, exhibited a slow-growth phenotype and disorganized thylakoid structure compared to wild-type and Δsll1252-Ctrn (expressing only the N-terminal region). Collectively, our data suggest that Sll1252 regulates electron transfer between the PQ pool and the Cyt b6/f complex in the linear photosynthetic electron transport chain via coordinated function of both the N- and C-terminal regions of Sll1252.
Implementation of a Multicomponent Otago-Based Virtual Fall Reduction, Education, and Exercise Program (MOVing FREEly) in Older Veterans
Authors: Ritchey Katherine C. , Olney Amanda , Chen Sunny , Martinez Erica , Paulsen Michelle R. , Tunoa Jennifer , Powers James S.
Published: November 2023

Purpose: The COVID-19 pandemic limited access to community fall prevention programs, thus establishing the need for virtual interventions. Herein, we describe the feasibility, effectiveness, and acceptability of a virtual, multicomponent fall prevention program (MOVing FREEly). Methods: A team of clinical falls prevention experts developed a six-week multicomponent fall prevention exercise and education class for older community-dwelling adults at risk of falling. Feasibility was measured through class attendance; effectiveness was measured through changes in performance measures, self-report of falling risk, and concern about falling; acceptability was assessed through questionnaires completed immediately upon program completion and at a three-month follow up. Results: A total of 32 patients participated in the MOVing FREEly program. Attendance for education and exercise classes on average was greater than 80% with little attrition. Patient reported reduced concern of falling, improvement in the falls efficacy scale—international (FES-I) short form, and had statistically significant improvement in 30 s sit-to-stand and single-leg balance tests. The program was well received by participants, saving them significant time and costs of travel. Conclusions: A virtual, multicomponent fall prevention program is feasible and acceptable and effective as reducing falling risk. Future studies can explore the ability of this program to reduce falling incident and injury.
Technology-Assisted Upper Limb Therapy (TAULT): Evaluation of Clinical Practice at a Specialised Centre for Spinal Cord Injury in Switzerland
Authors: Kuchen Daniela B. , Hubacher Beatrice , Ladner Andris , Velstra Inge-Marie , Widmer Mario
Published: November 2023

(1) Improving upper limb function is essential for people with tetraplegia. Although promising, technology-assisted upper limb training is understudied in this population. This article describes its implementation in a Swiss spinal cord injury rehabilitation centre and reports on the observed changes. (2) A retrospective evaluation of clinical data from January 2018 to June 2020 examined patient characteristics, training parameters, goal-setting practices, goal achievement, and changes in muscle strength over the course of technology-assisted upper limb training. (3) Data analysis included 61 individuals, 68.9% of whom had a spinal cord injury. The ArmeoSpring was the most frequently used device. The typical treatment regimen was three 25 min sessions per week, with evaluations approximately every six weeks. The 1:1 sessions, delivered by specialised staff, focused primarily on improving shoulder movement and the ability to eat and drink. Functional goals were set using a grid. Performance on selected goals in the areas of ‘body functions’ and ‘activities & participation’ as well as muscle strength, increased over the course of training. (4) The ArmeoSpring has broad applicability. Despite the observed improvements, the isolated effect of technology-assisted upper limb training cannot be concluded due to the lack of a control group and various concurrent interventions.
Self-Care Ability and Life Quality of Cured Leprosy Patients: The Mediating Effects of Social Support
Authors: Xu Li , Jin Guangjie , Li Xiang , Shao Yuting , Li Yunhui , Zhang Lianhua
Published: November 2023

Objectives: The study explores the relationship between social support, self-care ability, and life quality of cured leprosy patients (CLPs), aiming to develop strategies to enhance their overall well-being. Methods: From July to December 2021, we investigated the social support, self-care ability, and life quality of CLPs through three scales and analyzed the correlation between them. In addition, structural estimation modeling (SEM) was employed to analyze their correlation. Results: A total of 9245 CLPs were recruited, with a male-to-female ratio of 2.19:1, and 94.04% of cured patients was 60 years or above, with predominantly home-cured patients. The scores of WHOQOL-BREF, SSRS, and ESCA were (51.39 ± 9.89), (31.87 ± 8.76), and (100.95 ± 19.75), respectively. The results indicate a poorer quality of life and social support for CLPs compared to the general population in China. Furthermore, the home group had higher scores on these scales than the leprosarium group. The correlation analysis showed significant interactions between life quality, social support, self-care ability, and various domains (p < 0.05). SEM results revealed that the direct effect of self-care ability on life quality was 0.13, and the indirect effect on quality of life through social support was 0.08. The mediating effect of social support accounted for 22.86% of the total effect in the home group. In the leprosarium group, the effect of self-care ability on quality of life was 0.14. Conclusions: Most CLPs in Jiangsu Province are concentrated in the central region, with a high disease burden. We found that CLPs have a poorer life quality than the general population, with the leprosarium group being worse than the home group. The government and society should pay more attention to and support these cured patients.