bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Electrochemical Behavior of Indium in DMSO-Based Electrolytes Containing Indium(III) Chloride and Indium(I) Chloride: An Interplay Between the Disproportionation and the Comproportionation Reaction, and the Occurrence of Oscillations
Authors: Monnens Wouter , Binnemans Koen , Fransaer Jan
Published: June 2024

The electrochemistry of indium was investigated using electrolytes composed of (1) indium(III) chloride (InCl3) in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and (2) indium(I) chloride (InCl) in DMSO, with tetraethylammonium chloride (TEACl) used as a conducting background electrolyte. Cyclic voltammograms (CVs) in combination with quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) and rotating ring disk electrode (RRDE) tools revealed that indium(I) species play a prominent role during reduction. Both a disproportionation reaction and a comproportionation reaction were observed involving indium metal, indium(I), and indium(III) species, with the occurrence of either reaction depending on their relative concentrations. An equilibrium can exist between indium(I), indium(III), and indium(0). The equilibrium constant for the disproportionation reaction was determined to be 6.98 × 102 M–2. For both electrolyte (1) and (2), the reduction of indium(I) to indium metal, of indium(III) to indium(I), and of indium(III) to indium metal was identified by the CVs. Stripping of indium metal led to the formation of indium(I), which could be further oxidized to indium(III). Electrochemical oscillations were observed during the reduction of indium(III) to indium(I) (followed by the reduction of indium(I) to indium(0)). These oscillations occurred at –1.5 V vs Ag+/Ag and only appear on an indium (covered) electrode surface. It was postulated that these oscillations are due to the negative resistance that originates from the chloride-catalyzed reduction of indium(III) to indium(I), due to chloride removal from the indium surface.
Electrochemical and Theoretical Investigations on the Binding of Anticancer Drug Olaparib to Human Serum Albumin
Authors: Keciba Amina , Bakirhan Nurgul K. , Gözde Gündüz Miyase , Doulache Merzak , Saidat Boubakeur , Atici Esen Bellur , Ozkan Sibel A.
Published: June 2024

This article explores the interaction between Olaparib (OLA), an anticancer drug, and human serum albumin (HSA) on a glassy carbon electrode using cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry methods. The study investigates the alterations in the electrochemical behavior of [Fe(CN)6]3–/4– redox pairs in a physiological pH buffer solution due to the OLA-HSA interaction. The electrochemical and kinetic parameters of the redox probe were calculated in the presence of both the drug and protein. Notable variations in these parameters were observed, which can be attributed to the formation of an electro-inactive complex between the protein and drug. The study determined the parameters describing the OLA-HSA complex, including the binding constant and complex stoichiometry. The results revealed the formation of a strong singular drug-albumin complex with a binding constant of 1.12 × 105 M–1. Molecular docking studies supported the experimental findings and provided insights into the binding interactions of OLA with HSA. This study provides valuable insights for future research aimed at enhancing drug delivery systems.
La0.5Sr0.5Fe0.5Ti0.5O3 as a Bifunctional Catalyst for H2/O2 Fuel Cells: Towards Enhanced Stability and Electroactivity
Authors: Sharma Uma , Jha Pardeep K. , Jha Priyanka A. , Singh Prabhakar
Published: June 2024

To address the rising demand for H2 for fuel cells, hydrogen is produced through water splitting (electrochemically/photoelectrochemically).Although perovskite-structured materials show promise for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), their effectiveness in the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) poses a challenge. Consequently, there’s a growing demand for bifunctional catalysts exhibiting high electroactivity across a broad pH range. One potential candidate for exploration as a negative electrode in batteries and fuel cells is LaFeO3. With co-substitution of Sr and Ti, La0.5Sr0.5Fe0.5Ti0.5O3 (LSFT) is formed and explored as an air electrode. In this study, we systematically assess LSFT as a bifunctional catalyst across a broad pH spectrum of electrolytic solutions. LSFT displays increased current densities in both the OER and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) domains, alongside improved stability, notably in neutral conditions. Our investigation incorporates Density Functional Theory (DFT) simulations to determine surface binding energies and construct a Pourbaix diagram. The results underscore the robustness of LSFT as a perovskite-based bifunctional catalyst, achieving a cycle stability exceeding 600 cycles and a chronopotentiometric stability of 1500 h with a stable potential of ∼2 V at the current density of 150 mA/cm2 in the neutral environment.
From the Editor: Artificial Intelligence?
Authors: Kelly Rob G.
Published: June 2024

I admit that I struggle with the issues surrounding artificial intelligence (AI). As a technologist, my knee-jerk reaction is that how it works is cool, and its potential for good amazing. As a pessimist, I can foresee an AI machine taking over writing these editorials and doing a better job of it. The more I read about it the more excited and scared I get.
Advancements in Electrodeposition for Precise Manufacturing and Sustainability
Authors: Badalbayli Anar , Sinclair Nicolas , Bernasconi Roberto , Borisenko Natalia , Venkatesh Krishna , Ispas Adriana , Akolkar Rohan , Magagnin Luca
Published: June 2024

Simply expressed, the circular economy implies that the people living on Earth should reuse and recycle the products that are currently in use as long as possible and reduce the waste produced, thus reducing CO2 emissions. The latter goal is fundamental from the perspective of mitigating the well-known greenhouse effect and the consequent global warming observed at the planetary scale. Under these conditions, advanced electrodeposition processes can play a fundamental role in the optimization of materials use and in the reduction of the energetic footprint for a wide variety of industrial processes. The aim of the present paper is precisely to suggest how this is possible, showing readers the potential that electrodeposition holds for efficient manufacturing of many different products that have a huge significance for industry.
TRPV4 and chloride channels mediate volume sensing in trabecular meshwork cells
Authors: Baumann Jackson M. , Yarishkin Oleg , Lakk Monika , De Ieso Michael L. , Rudzitis Christopher N. , Kuhn Megan , Tseng Yun Ting , Stamer W. Daniel , Križaj David
Published: June 2024

Intraocular pressure is dynamically regulated by the flow of aqueous humor through paracellular passages within the trabecular meshwork (TM). This study shows hypotonic gradients that expand the TM cell volume and reduce the outflow facility in mouse eyes. The swelling-induced current consists of TRPV4 and chloride components, with TRPV4 as a driver of swelling-induced calcium signaling. TRPV4 inhibition reduced swelling, suggesting a novel treatment for trabeculitis and glaucoma.
Plasma epinephrine and norepinephrine responses to extreme heat exposures in young and older adults
Authors: McKenna Zachary J. , Foster Josh , Atkins Whitley C. , Jarrard Caitlin P. , Sarma Satyam , Crandall Craig G.
Published: June 2024

Herein we present plasma epinephrine and norepinephrine concentrations to 3 h of very hot and dry, as well as hot and humid, heat exposures with accompanying activities of daily living in young and older participants. We found 1) increased plasma concentrations of epinephrine in young and older adults following the hot and humid, but not the very hot and dry exposures and 2) decreased concentrations of norepinephrine in both groups following exposure to both conditions.
The multidrug resistance protein 4 is expressed and functionally active in isolated bladder from pig
Authors: Gomes Erick de Toledo , Passos Gabriela Reolon , Antunes Natalícia de Jesus , de Oliveira Mariana Gonçalves , de Souza Valeria Barbosa , Schenka André Almeida , da Costa José Luiz , Antunes Edson , Mónica Fabiola Zakia
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the impact of pharmacological inhibition of MRP4 and MRP5 transporters on cyclic nucleotide signaling in isolated pig bladders. MK571 administration led to modest relaxation, with enhanced effects observed in the presence of phosphodiesterase inhibitors. However, substances elevating cAMP levels remained unaffected. MK571 selectively reduced extracellular cGMP levels. These findings shed light on the role of MRP4 transporters in the porcine bladder, opening avenues for further research into bladder disorders.
Mitochondrial microRNA profiles are altered in thirteen-lined ground squirrels (Ictidomys tridecemlineatus) during hibernation
Authors: Robichaud Karyn , Duffy Brynne , Staples James F. , Craig Paul M.
Published: June 2024

During the hibernation season, thirteen-lined ground squirrels periodically increase metabolism remarkably between torpor and interbout euthermia (IBE). This process involves rapid reactivation of mitochondrial respiration. We predicted that mitochondrial microRNA (mitomiRs) might be altered during this response. We found that the abundance of 38 liver mitomiRs differs based on hibernation state (summer, IBE, and torpor). Small RNA sequencing identified mitomiR profiles, including some mitomiRs that are predicted to bind to mitochondrial RNAs.
Biogenic Waste from Two Varieties of Plantain in Ghana Contain Pectin with Potential Binding Properties in Conventional Tablets
Authors: Otu Desmond Asamoah Bruce , Owusu Frederick William Akuffo , Boakye-Gyasi Mariam El , Johnson Raphael , Acquah Prince George Jnr , Edzor-Agbo Yayra , Bayor Marcel Tunkumgnen , Archer Mary-Ann
Published: June 2024

Pharmaceutical formulations have traditionally relied on plants and their derivatives for various APIs and excipients. In Ghana, the widespread utilization of plantains, irrespective of their ripeness, generates significant waste at every stage of processing, posing disposal issues. Fascinatingly, these wastes, often discarded, possess significant economic potential and can be recycled into valuable raw materials or products. Pectin, a polysaccharide that occurs naturally, has seen a surge in interest in recent times. It has found widespread use in the pharmaceutical sector, particularly as a binding agent in tablet formulations. This study aimed to evaluate pectin from two popular plantain varieties, Apem (M) and Apantu (T) at different ripening stages, for pharmaceutical use as a binding agent in immediate‐release tablets. The ripening stages selected were the matured‐green (G), half‐ripe (H), and full‐ripe (R). Acid (D) and alkaline (L) mediums of extraction were employed for each ripening stage for both varieties. Wet granulation method was used to prepare the granules using paracetamol as a model drug, and their flow properties were subsequently assessed. Postcompression tests including, hardness, friability, weight uniformity, disintegration, assay, and in vitro dissolution were also assessed. Granules from all formulation batches had good flow properties indicated by their angle of repose (14.93 ± 1.41–21.80 ± 1.41), Hausner ratio (0.96 ± 0.27–1.22 ± 0.02), and compressibility (%) (7.69 ± 0.002–20.51 ± 0.002). All the tablets passed the uniformity of weight with none deviating by ±5%. The hardness of all the formulated tablets ranged between 3.96 ± 0.32 and 13.21 ± 0.36, while the friability for all tablets was below 1%. The drug content was between 100.1 ± 0.23% and 103.4 ± 0.01%. Tablets formulated with pectin as a binding agent at concentrations of 10% w/v and 15% w/v successfully met the disintegration test criteria for immediate release tablets. However, those prepared with a concentration of 20% w/v (MGL, MHD, MHL, MRD, MRL, TGL, THD, THL, and TRL) did not pass the disintegration test. Consequently, all batches of tablets successfully met the dissolution test requirement (Diss, Q > 75%), except for the batches that did not pass the disintegration test (Diss, Q < 75%). Ultimately, pectins extracted from the peels of Apem and Apantu at different ripening stages using acid and alkaline extraction can be commercially exploited as pharmaceutical binders at varying concentrations in immediate‐release tablets.
A Case of Sublingual Gland Hypertrophy in the Setting of Submandibular Gland Aplasia Presenting as a Neck Mass
Authors: Wolf Colten , Hubbell Richard
Published: June 2024

Background. Absence or aplasia of the major salivary glands is an uncommon diagnosis and is often associated with other congenital abnormalities. Agenesis of a single submandibular gland, however, is an even more rare phenomenon and can be associated with hypertrophy of other salivary glands. Methods. A 48‐year‐old female presented to the clinic with a left‐sided neck mass below her mandible. Workup including a CT scan showed an absent left‐sided submandibular gland and an enlarged sublingual gland protruding through the mylohyoid muscle. Results. The patient underwent a transoral resection of the mass with subsequent resolution of the mass. The pathology returned as normal salivary gland tissue. Conclusions. Sublingual gland hypertrophy is a very uncommon presentation for a patient with a neck mass. This situation can arise in the setting of submandibular gland aplasia and compensatory hypertrophy of other salivary glands.
Senior Nurse Manager Perceptions of Nurse Practitioner Integration: A Quantitative Study
Authors: Ryder M. , Lowe G. , Gallagher P. , Plummer V. , Mcentee J. , Driscoll A. , Furlong E.
Published: June 2024

Aim. To determine Senior Nurse Managers’ perceptions of integration of Nurse Practitioner roles in Healthcare Organisations across Ireland and Australia. Background. Introduction of the Nurse Practitioner role in both countries is well established with national policies aimed at developing a critical mass in the health workforce. Current policy requires Senior Nurse Managers to be actively involved in the introduction of and oversight of the integration of Nurse Practitioners across healthcare settings. This is integral in the context of the success and sustainability of the services provided by the Nurse Practitioner. Methods. A quantitative, cross‐sectional cloud‐based survey of senior nurse managers across Ireland and Australia from April to September 2022. Results. Of 300 responses received, 122 were eligible for analysis. Of these, 77% expressed that there should be a specific role to support the integration of Nurse Practitioner roles at local level, and 61% recommended that this should occur at a national level, whilst 48% reported the absence of a standardised governance structure. Three reporting structures were identified: professional, clinical, and operational. Autonomous clinical decision making and prescribing were two Nurse Practitioner functions most identified. Fifty‐five percent reported having performance indicators for Nurse Practitioner roles, with 24% agreeing that performance indicators captured the quality of care provided. Thirty‐five percent of senior nurse managers indicated that there were agreed reporting timelines for performance indicators and a requirement for the provision of an annual report. Conclusion. Whilst some participants reported structure to guide and evaluate the work and value of Nurse Practitioners, the approach was inconsistent across organisations and countries. This paper demonstrates that integration is not broadly established across both countries. Implications for the Profession. The main findings were that Nurse Practitioners were misunderstood and the development of a structured framework to support the integration of Nurse Practitioners would provide long‐term benefits.
Oncogenic Calreticulin Induces Immune Escape by Stimulating TGFβ Expression and Regulatory T-cell Expansion in the Bone Marrow Microenvironment
Authors: Schmidt Dominik , Endres Cornelia , Hoefflin Rouven , Andrieux Geoffroy , Zwick Melissa , Karantzelis Nikolaos , Staehle Hans F. , Vinnakota Janaki Manoja , Duquesne Sandra , Mozaffari Jovein Miriam , Pfeifer Dietmar , Becker Heiko , Blazar Bruce R. , Zähringer Alexander , Duyster Justus , Brummer Tilman , Boerries Melanie , Baumeister Julian , Shoumariyeh Khalid , Li Juan , Green Anthony R. , Heidel Florian H. , Tirosh Itay , Pahl Heike L. , Leimkühler Nils , Köhler Natalie , de Toledo Marcelo A.S. , Koschmieder Steffen , Zeiser Robert
Published: June 2024

Increasing evidence supports the interplay between oncogenic mutations and immune escape mechanisms. Strategies to counteract the immune escape mediated by oncogenic signaling could provide improved therapeutic options for patients with various malignancies. As mutant calreticulin (CALR) is a common driver of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN), we analyzed the impact of oncogenic CALRdel52 on the bone marrow (BM) microenvironment in MPN. Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed that CALRdel52 led to the expansion of TGFβ1-producing erythroid progenitor cells and promoted the expansion of FoxP3+ regulatory T cells (Treg) in a murine MPN model. Treatment with an anti-TGFβ antibody improved mouse survival and increased the glycolytic activity in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in vivo, whereas T-cell depletion abrogated the protective effects conferred by neutralizing TGFβ. TGFβ1 reduced perforin and TNFα production by T cells in vitro. TGFβ1 production by CALRdel52 cells was dependent on JAK1/2, PI3K, and ERK activity, which activated the transcription factor Sp1 to induce TGFβ1 expression. In four independent patient cohorts, TGFβ1 expression was increased in the BM of patients with MPN compared with healthy individuals, and the BM of patients with MPN contained a higher frequency of Treg compared with healthy individuals. Together, this study identified an ERK/Sp1/TGFβ1 axis in CALRdel52 MPNs as a mechanism of immunosuppression that can be targeted to elicit T-cell–mediated cytotoxicity.

Significance: Targeting the mutant calreticulin/TGFβ1 axis increases T-cell activity and glycolytic capacity, providing the rationale for conducting clinical trials on TGFβ antagonists as an immunotherapeutic strategy in patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms.
High Gastric Cancer Mortality and Years of Life Lost in Nicaragua: A Population-Based Study 1997 to 2012
Authors: Peña-Galo Edgar M. , Palacios-Navarro Guillermo , Pastora-Membreño Javier , Torres-Herman Tatiana , Norwood Dalton A. , Montalvan-Sanchez Eleazar E. , Beasley Timothy , Bravo Luis E. , Morgan Douglas R.
Published: June 2024

Background:

Gastric adenocarcinoma is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related mortality and leading infection-associated cancer. Gastric adenocarcinoma has striking geographic variability, with high incidence in East Asia and mountainous Latin America. Reliable cancer data and population-based cancer registries are lacking for the majority of low- and middle-income countries, including the Central American Four region (CA-4, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Honduras, and Guatemala).

Methods:

Mortality data for Nicaragua were obtained from the highly rated Ministry of Health death registry. All the patients were diagnosed with gastric cancer between 1997 and 2012 (ICD-10 codes, C16.0–C16.9) and death due to any cause were included in the study. Data on variables such as sex, age (stratified by 5-year age groups), municipality, urban/rural, altitude, and year of death were analyzed.

Results:

A total of 3,886 stomach cancer deaths were reported in Nicaragua between 1997 and 2012, of which 2,214 (56.9%) were male. The age-standardized mortality rates were 13.1 and 8.7 per 100,000 habitants for males and females, respectively, and without significant change during the study period (annual percentage change = −0.7, P = 0.2). An average of 17.9 years were lost per death, accounting for 67,964 years of life lost (YLL).

Conclusions:

The burden of gastric cancer mortality is high in Nicaragua with a significantly elevated age-standardized mortality rate, YYL, and average YLL.

Impact:

The projected increase in mortality portends the double cancer burden in northern Central America, with persistent infection-associated cancers and growing transition cancers (e.g., breast and colon cancers), which has implications for cancer control in Mesoamerica and US Latino populations.

See related commentary by Riquelme and Abnet, p. 1550
Biomarker-Driven Personalized Immunoprevention: Toward More Efficient Clinical Trials?
Authors: Yendamuri Sai , Dragnev Konstantin H.
Published: June 2024

In this secondary analysis of specimens from the CANTOS trial, the investigators find that patients with clonal hematopoiesis mutations, particularly in the TET2 gene, predict a benefit of decreased cancer risk with the administration of the anti-IL1β agent canakinumab. Despite small numbers and the need for prospective validation, the findings are exciting as they demonstrate the potential for personalized chemoprevention approaches. Such personalized approaches can potentially enhance the feasibility of cancer prevention trials.

See related article by Woo et al., p. 429
RNA-encoded Interleukin 2 with Extended Bioavailability Amplifies RNA Vaccine–Induced Antitumor T-cell Immunity
Authors: Peters Daniel , Kranz Lena M. , Eisel David , Diken Mustafa , Kreiter Sebastian , Türeci Özlem , Sahin Ugur , Vormehr Mathias
Published: June 2024

Interleukin 2 (IL-2) is a crucial cytokine in T-cell immunity, with a promising potential in cancer vaccines. However, therapeutic application of IL-2 is hampered by its short half-life and substantial toxicity. This study reports preclinical characterization of a mouse serum albumin–IL-2 fusion protein (Alb–IL2) encoded on nucleoside-modified RNA that is delivered via a nanoparticle formulation (Alb–IL2 RNA-NP) mediating prolonged cytokine availability. Alb–IL2 RNA-NP was combined with RNA-lipoplex (RNA-LPX) vaccines to evaluate its effect on the expansion of vaccine-induced antigen specific T-cell immunity. In mice dosed with Alb–IL2 RNA-NP, translated protein was shown to be systemically available up to 2 days, with an albumin-dependent preferred presence in the tumor and tumor-draining lymph node. Alb–IL2 RNA-NP administration prolonged serum availability of the cytokine compared with murine recombinant IL-2. In combination with RNA-LPX vaccines, Alb-IL2 RNA-NP administration highly increased the expansion of RNA-LPX vaccine–induced CD8+ T cells in the spleen and blood. The combination enhanced and sustained the fraction of IL-2 receptor (IL-2R) α-positive antigen-specific CD8+ T cells and ameliorated the functional capacity of the CD8+ T-cell population. Alb–IL2 RNA-NP strongly improved the antitumor activity and survival of concomitant RNA-LPX vaccination and PD-L1 blockade in a subcutaneous mouse tumor model. The favorable pharmacokinetic properties of Alb–IL2 RNA-NP render it an attractive modality for rationally designed combination immunotherapy. RNA vaccines that induce tumor-specific T-cell immunity for Alb–IL2 RNA-NP to further amplify are particularly attractive combination partners.
Supplementary Figure 9 from Role of Gut Microbiome in Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy Response in Urothelial Carcinoma: A Multi-institutional Prospective Cohort Evaluation
Authors: Bukavina Laura , Ginwala Rashida , Eltoukhi Mohamed , Sindhani Mohit , Prunty Megan , Geynisman Daniel M. , Ghatalia Pooja , Valentine Henkel , Calaway Adam , Correa Andres F. , Brown Jason R. , Mishra Kirtishri , Plimack Elizabeth R. , Kutikov Alexander , Ghannoum Mahmoud , Elshaer Mohammed , Retuerto Mauricio , Ponsky Lee , Uzzo Robert G. , Abbosh Philip H.
Published: June 2024

Supplementary Figure 9: Microbial Composition Variability by Sex in BBN-Exposed Mice

BBN Gender Female:

A: Alpha diversity indices (ACE, Chao1, Shannon) across different time points (0, 6, 12, 16-22 weeks), showing variations in microbial diversity in female mice.

B: Stacked bar chart illustrating the relative abundance of bacterial genera at each time point.

C: Dot plot depicting the percentage of specific bacterial families at different time points, providing a quantitative view of how predominant families fluctuate with BBN exposure.

D: Principal Coordinates Analysis (PCoA) plot based on weighted UniFrac distances, showing the clustering of microbial communities across time, with color-coded points representing different time points to visualize the trajectory of community changes.

E: Bar chart with Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) scores of bacterial taxa that are significantly different across the studied time points.

BBN Gender Male:

F: Alpha diversity indices (ACE, Chao1, Shannon) displayed across the same time points as the female group, illustrating the microbial diversity dynamics in male mice.

G: Stacked bar chart showing the relative abundance of bacterial genera in male mice, and the specific microbial shifts unique to male physiology under BBN influence.

H: Dot plot of the percentage representation of bacterial families over time, helps in identifying sex-specific microbial behavior in response to carcinogenic treatment.

I: PCoA plot for the male group, illustrating shifts in microbial community structure with different clusters for each time point.

J: LDA score bar chart for male mice displaying significant microbial taxa changes over time providing insight on impact of BBN exposure on the male gut microbiome.
Supplementary Figure 3 from Role of Gut Microbiome in Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy Response in Urothelial Carcinoma: A Multi-institutional Prospective Cohort Evaluation
Authors: Bukavina Laura , Ginwala Rashida , Eltoukhi Mohamed , Sindhani Mohit , Prunty Megan , Geynisman Daniel M. , Ghatalia Pooja , Valentine Henkel , Calaway Adam , Correa Andres F. , Brown Jason R. , Mishra Kirtishri , Plimack Elizabeth R. , Kutikov Alexander , Ghannoum Mahmoud , Elshaer Mohammed , Retuerto Mauricio , Ponsky Lee , Uzzo Robert G. , Abbosh Philip H.
Published: June 2024

Supplementary Figure 3: Imaging of Murine Urothelial Cancer CT urography and ultrasound images displaying bladder tumors induced by BBN in mice, shown in both axial and coronal views, with tumors highlighted by arrows.
FIGURE 3 from Role of Gut Microbiome in Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy Response in Urothelial Carcinoma: A Multi-institutional Prospective Cohort Evaluation
Authors: Bukavina Laura , Ginwala Rashida , Eltoukhi Mohamed , Sindhani Mohit , Prunty Megan , Geynisman Daniel M. , Ghatalia Pooja , Valentine Henkel , Calaway Adam , Correa Andres F. , Brown Jason R. , Mishra Kirtishri , Plimack Elizabeth R. , Kutikov Alexander , Ghannoum Mahmoud , Elshaer Mohammed , Retuerto Mauricio , Ponsky Lee , Uzzo Robert G. , Abbosh Philip H.
Published: June 2024

Microbial composition variance in relation to chemotherapy response in patients with bladder cancer. A, Proportional representation of the GM's phylogenetic composition in patients showing CR versus NR to NAC (Also depicted in C). B, Alpha diversity metrics compared across response groups, highlighting minimal statistical disparities. D, Weighted UniFrac PCoA depicting the lack of distinct microbial clustering by response category. E–G, Venn diagram and LEfSe analysis illustrating unique and differentially abundant microbial taxa associated with NAC responses, enriched in either CR or NR groups, along with a taxonomic cladogram delineating these associations.
De novo Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Single-Center Case Series Study
Authors: Ogata Masatomo , Kato Masaki , Miyauchi Takamasa , Murata-Hasegawa Marie , Sakurai Yuko , Shinoda Kazunobu , Yamazaki Hajime , Shibagaki Yugo , Yazawa Masahiko
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Gastrointestinal complications are common after solid organ transplantation. New-onset inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) after transplantation (de novo) is a major differential diagnosis of diarrhea after liver transplantation (LT) because of its high incidence in the field. However, the incidence of IBD after kidney transplantation (KT) remains unknown. Methods: This case series comprised six de novo IBD patients who had undergone KT at our hospital from April 1998 to December 2020. In this period, 232 KT recipients were identified. Participants were analyzed based on their colonoscopy diagnoses. Detailed clinical information regarding both KT- and IBD-related symptoms or outcomes was obtained, and we calculated the incidence of de novo IBD from the date of KT. Results: Of the 232 recipients in the median observation period of 6.1 (interquartile range: 2.6, 10.8) years, six recipients (one with Crohn’s disease and five with ulcerative colitis) were diagnosed with de novo IBD. The incidence of de novo IBD after KT was 355.8/100,000 person-years (95% confidence interval, 159.8–791.9 per 100,000 person-years). Bloody stools and diarrhea did not always occur, with bloody stools occurring in three and diarrhea in 2 patients at the time of diagnosis. No recipient developed graft failure or extraintestinal complications (e.g., IBD-related nephritis or arthritis). Conclusion: Despite a small sample size, this study’s results indicate that the incidence of de novo IBD after KT may be similar to that after LT and higher than that in the general population. Larger studies are required to validate these preliminary findings.
Pediatric Emergent Peritoneal Dialysis in Intensive Care Units: Indications, Techniques, and Outcomes
Authors: Huang Yi-Hsuan , Chou Chia-Man , Huang Sheng-Yang , Chen Hou-Chuan
Published: June 2024

Introduction: This study aimed to identify risk factors affecting outcomes in pediatric patients requiring emergent peritoneal dialysis (PD) for all causes, focusing on survival rates, kidney function recovery, PD duration, complications, and quality of life. Methods: A retrospective review was conducted on medical records of pediatric patients who received emergent bedside PD in the intensive care unit from January 2010 to February 2023. Thirty-four catheters were placed, with demographic, preoperative, and procedural data collected. MedCalc® Statistical Software was used for analysis with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Prophylactic antibiotics were administered prior to surgery, and catheters were placed using a consistent technique by a single team of pediatric surgeons. Results: The median age at catheter placement was 39 days (range 2–2,286), and the median body weight was 3.53 kg (range 1.2–48.8). The majority were male (64.7%), with 17.6% preterm. The most common indication for PD was acute kidney injury (AKI) (88.2%), followed by hyperammonemia, metabolic acidosis, and abdominal compartment syndrome. The median waiting period for PD placement was 1 day, and the median duration of PD was 7 days. Complications included dialysate leakage (22.8%) and catheter obstruction leading to PD discontinuation (31.4%). The mortality rate was high at 71.4%. Conclusion: It is advisable to advocate for the early initiation of PD in pediatric patients following cardiac surgery. AKI is a significant risk factor for mortality, while prematurity increases the risk of dialysate leakage. Omentectomy and the method of catheter exit did not significantly affect outcomes. The study’s limitations highlight the need for larger prospective studies to better understand and improve emergent PD management in this vulnerable population.
Mutation Characteristics of Primary Hyperoxaluria in the Chinese Population and Current International Diagnosis and Treatment Status
Authors: Zhu Xingying , Cheung Wai W. , Zhang Aihua , Ding Guixia
Published: June 2024

Background: Primary hyperoxaluria (PH) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder, mainly due to the increase in endogenous oxalate production, causing a series of clinical features such as kidney stones, nephrocalcinosis, progressive impairment of renal function, and systemic oxalosis. There are three common genetic causes of glycolate metabolism anomalies. Among them, PH type 1 is the most prevalent and severe type, and early end-stage renal failure often occurs. Summary: This review summarizes PH through pathophysiology, genotype, clinical manifestation, diagnosis, and treatment options. And explore the characteristics of Chinese PH patients. Key Messages: Diagnosis of this rare disease is based on clinical symptoms, urinary or blood oxalate concentrations, liver biopsy, and genetic testing. Currently, the main treatment is massive hydration, citrate inhibition of crystallization, dialysis, liver and kidney transplantation, and pyridoxine. Recently, RNA interference drugs have also been used. In addition, technologies such as gene editing and autologous liver cell transplantation are also being developed. C.815_816insGA and c.33_34insC mutation in the AGXT gene could be a common variant in Chinese PH1 population. Mutations at the end of exon 6 account for approximately 50% of all Chinese HOGA1 mutations. Currently, the treatment of PH in China still relies mainly on symptomatic and high-throughput dialysis, with poor prognosis (especially for PH1 patients).
Incorporation of Chest Computed Tomography Quantification to Predict Outcomes for Patients on Hemodialysis with COVID-19
Authors: Xing Haifan , Gu Sijie , Li Ze , Wei Xiao-er , He Li , Liu Qiye , Feng Haoran , Wang Niansong , Huang Hengye , Fan Ying
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis are vulnerable to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), exhibiting a high risk of hospitalization and mortality. Thus, early identification and intervention are important to prevent disease progression in these patients. Methods: This was a two-center retrospective observational study of patients on hemodialysis diagnosed with COVID-19 at the Lingang and Xuhui campuses of Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital. Patients were randomized into the training (130) and validation cohorts (54), while 59 additional patients served as an independent external validation cohort. Artificial intelligence-based parameters of chest computed tomography (CT) were quantified, and a nomogram for patient outcomes at 14 and 28 days was created by screening quantitative CT measures, clinical data, and laboratory examination items, using univariate and multivariate Cox regression models. Results: The median dialysis duration was 48 (interquartile range, 24–96) months. Age, diabetes mellitus, serum phosphorus level, lymphocyte count, and chest CT score were identified as independent prognostic indicators and included in the nomogram. The concordance index values were 0.865, 0.914, and 0.885 in the training, internal validation, and external validation cohorts, respectively. Calibration plots showed good agreement between the expected and actual outcomes. Conclusion: This is the first study in which a reliable nomogram was developed to predict short-term outcomes and survival probabilities in patients with COVID-19 on hemodialysis. This model may be helpful to clinicians in treating COVID-19, managing serum phosphorus, and adjusting the dialysis strategies for these vulnerable patients to prevent disease progression in the context of COVID-19 and continuous emergence of novel viruses.
Ein Fallbericht über unterschätzte Erkrankungen bei Lungenembolie: persistierendes Foramen ovale und rechtsventrikulärer Thrombus
Authors: Sera Satoshi , Okazaki Yuji , Kashiwa Kenichiro , Ichiba Toshihisa
Published: June 2024

Die Lungenembolie (LE) ist eine potenziell lebensbedrohliche Erkrankung, deren klinische Symptome von asymptomatisch bis hin zur hämodynamischen Instabilität reichen. Die Frühdiagnose in der Notaufnahme ist oft schwierig. Obwohl der Zusammenhang zwischen einem persistierenden Foramen ovale (PFO) und thromboembolischen Ereignissen bei Patienten mit LE gut dokumentiert ist, wird die Bedeutung eines PFO bei Patienten mit LE möglicherweise unterschätzt. Darüber hinaus ist das Auftreten eines rechtsventrikulären Thrombus (RVT) bei LE eine seltene, aber erhebliche Komplikation mit Auswirkungen auf das Krankheitsmanagement. Wir berichten über einen Fall einer akuten chronischen LE mit begleitendem beidseitigem Niereninfarkt aufgrund einer paradoxen Embolie neben einem RVT. In unserer Notaufnahme stellte sich ein 35-jähriger Mann mit plötzlich aufgetretenen Bauchschmerzen vor. In der kontrastverstärkten Computertomographie (CT) wurde ein beidseitiger Niereninfarkt festgestellt. Die Ultraschalluntersuchung bei der patientennahen Sofortdiagnostik ergab eine LE und einen RVT. Eine nachfolgende CT-Angiografie der Lunge bestätigte eine beidseitige LE, ein PFO und einen RVT. Der Patient wurde erfolgreich mit Thrombolysetherapie behandelt, wobei eine extrakorporale Membranoxygenierung bereitgehalten wurde. Dieser Fall unterstreicht die Notwendigkeit, die verschiedenen klinischen Manifestationen der LE zu erkennen, und die Wichtigkeit der Berücksichtigung eines koexistierenden PFO und RVT bei betroffenen Patienten. Die Diagnose einer LE kann komplex sein, wenn sich die Symptome mit denen einer arteriellen Thrombose überschneiden, z.B. bei einem Niereninfarkt als Folge eines PFO. Darüber hinaus ist ein RVT, obwohl er selten auftritt, eine schwerwiegende Komplikation bei Patienten mit LE und kann eine sorgfältige Beurteilung für eine Thrombolysetherapie oder antikoagulatorische Therapie erfordern. Es ist wichtig, bei allen Fällen von LE, auch wenn keine arterielle Embolie vorliegt, die Möglichkeit eines PFO in Betracht zu ziehen und vor Beginn einer Behandlung sofort auf einen RVT zu untersuchen.
Self-Rated Health among Older Adults: Longitudinal Analyses Examining Sex Differences across Different Birth Cohorts and Educational Levels
Authors: Schaap Laura A. , Sialino Lena D. , de la Court Feline , van Oostrom Sandra H. , Picavet H. Susan J. , Verschuren W.M. Monique , Visser Marjolein , Wijnhoven Hanneke A.H.
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Given the known female disadvantage in physical and mental health, this study aimed to investigate sex differences in self-rated health (SRH) among older adults, considering the longitudinal course by age, birth cohort, and educational level. Methods: Data from birth cohort 1911–1937 with baseline age 55–81 years (n = 3,107) and birth cohort 1938–1947 with baseline age 55–65 years (n = 1,002) from the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam (LASA) were used. Mixed model analyses were used to examine sex differences in SRH (RAND General Health Perception Questionnaire [RAND-GHPQ], range 0–16) over the age course, testing for effect modification by the birth cohort and educational level (low, middle, high). Results: For both sexes, a decline in SRH was seen with increasing age. Over the age course, there was no significant sex difference in SRH within the older (1911–1937) birth cohort (0.13 lower score on SRH for women compared to men, 95% CI: −0.35 to 0.09) and only a small sex difference in the more recent (1938–1947) birth cohort (0.35 lower score on SRH for women compared to men [95% CI: −0.69 to −0.02], p = 0.04). There was no significant cohort difference in the size of the sex difference (p = 0.279). Those with a higher level of education reported a higher SRH, but between educational levels, there was no significant difference in the size of the sex difference in SRH. Discussion: In this study, no relevant sex difference in SRH over the age course was observed among older adults. Future research on SRH trajectories by sex during aging should take health-related, cognitive, psychosocial, and behavioral factors into account.
Real-Time Cardiac Abnormality Monitoring and Nursing for Patient Using Electrocardiographic Signals
Authors: Ao Huamin , Zhai Enjian , Jiang Le , Yang Kailin , Deng Yuxuan , Guo Xiaoyang , Zeng Liuting , Yan Yexing , Hao Moujia , Song Tian , Ge Jinwen , Chen Junpeng
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Cardiovascular disease nursing is a critical clinical application that necessitates real-time monitoring models. Previous models required the use of multi-lead signals and could not be customized as needed. Traditional methods relied on manually designed supervised algorithms, based on empirical experience, to identify waveform abnormalities and classify diseases, and were incapable of monitoring and alerting abnormalities in individual waveforms. Methods: This research reconstructed the vector model for arbitrary leads using the phase space-time-delay method, enabling the model to arbitrarily combine signals as needed while possessing adaptive denoising capabilities. After employing automatically constructed machine learning algorithms and designing for rapid convergence, the model can identify abnormalities in individual waveforms and classify diseases, as well as detect and alert on abnormal waveforms. Result: Effective noise elimination was achieved, obtaining a higher degree of loss function fitting. After utilizing the algorithm in Section 3.1 to remove noise, the signal-to-noise ratio increased by 8.6%. A clipping algorithm was employed to identify waveforms significantly affected by external factors. Subsequently, a network model established by a generative algorithm was utilized. The accuracy for healthy patients reached 99.2%, while the accuracy for APB was 100%, for LBBB 99.32%, for RBBB 99.1%, and for P-wave peak 98.1%. Conclusion: By utilizing a three-dimensional model, detailed variations in electrocardiogram signals associated with different diseases can be observed. The clipping algorithm is effective in identifying perturbed and damaged waveforms. Automated neural networks can classify diseases and patient identities to facilitate precision nursing.
Effective Radiation Dose from Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Guidance during Bronchoscopic Tumour Ablation
Authors: Watson Jack Mitchell , Einsiedel Paul F. , Antippa Phillip , Rangamuwa Kanishka , Irving Louis , Steinfort Daniel P.
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Endobronchial radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a novel minimally invasive approach to management of peripheral non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in medically inoperable patients. Minimally invasive ablative techniques are generally delivered with cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) guidance. CBCT requires a significant number of two dimensional imaging projections to be acquired which is then reconstructed as a three-dimensional cone-beam image. The objective of this study was to determine the radiation dosimetry consequent to use of CBCT guidance for bronchoscopic RFA. Methods: Post hoc analysis of data following bronchoscopic RFA of stage I biopsy-confirmed NSCLC performed with CBCT. Effective dose estimates for these patients were calculated using PCXMC2.0 software. Results: Ten patients underwent bronchoscopic RFA, with a median 3 (range 2–4) CBCT spins per procedure. Mean dose area product (DAP) per procedure was 7,778 μGy.m2 (±4,743) with an effective dose of 11.6 mSv (±7.4). The DAP per spin for these 10 patients varied from 83.8 to 8,625.6 μGy.m2 (effective dose range 0.15–13.81 mSv). Conclusion: This is the first study to report radiation dosimetry consequent to CT guidance for bronchoscopic RFA procedures. Effective doses appear comparable to other CT fluoroscopic procedures.
How Do the Eight Hypotheses in Plato’s Parmenides Come to Light? Chiasmus as a Method of Division
Authors: Liu Xin
Published: June 2024

In this paper, I aim to explore the structure of the exercise in the second part of the Parmenides. In analyzing the transitional section, I claim that in addition to diairesis, there is another method of division, namely, cross-division, which Porphyry terms chiasmus. On this basis, I explain how Plato uses chiasmus to divide the exercise into eight hypotheses, in which the subjects of the paired hypotheses (I–VI, II–V, III–VII, and IV–VIII) are the same and those of the nonpaired hypotheses differ. In closing, I reconstruct the universal scheme of the exercise on the basis of Plato’s use of chiasmus.
Samuel Beckett dirige Play: das colaborações com Alan Shneider, George Devine e Jean-Marie Serreau à encenação no Schiller-theater werkstatt
Authors: Santos Felipe de Souza
Published: June 2024

Este artigo tem como objetivo desenvolver uma reflexão acerca da encenação de Samuel Beckett para a peça Play (Spiel), apresentada no SchillerTheater Werkstatt em 1978. Tendo como ponto de partida as encenações de estreia nos Estados Unidos, Inglaterra e França, dirigidas por Alan Schneider, George Devine e Jean-Marie Serreau, nas quais Beckett atuará como colaborador, procuraremos estabelecer pontos de aproximação entre estas produções e a encenação dirigida pelo dramaturgo-encenador irlandês. Documentado minuciosamente nos manuscritos armazenados no Beckett Archive da Beckett International Foundation, o processo de encenação de Play com direção de Beckett será comentado em chave comparativa às encenações realizadas com sua colaboração, no intuito de apontarmos a evolução da visão do dramaturgo-encenador acerca desta peça curta a partir do processo de transposição do texto à cena. Para tanto, utilizaremos os manuscritos e datiloscritos inéditos de Beckett relativos à sua encenação da peça em Berlim, bem como depoimentos acerca das referidas encenações fornecidos por colaboradores como o assistente de direção Walter Asmus, o ator Michaël Lonsdale e a pesquisadora Ruby Cohn.
Breve história da formação do espaço e da administração do Instituto Oscar Freire de Medicina Legal (1923-1938)
Authors: Machado João Denardi
Published: June 2024

This article uses historiographical references and institutional documentation to observe the history of the Oscar Freire Institute of Legal Medicine (IOF) as the fabrication of a social space and an specialized bureaucracy, among regulations, positions, laws and hierarchies, during the years of 1923 to 1938. To this end, two interconnected historical processes are overviewed and exposed in two separate topics during the article: the first relating to the assembly of the legal and administrative entity of the IOF and the second focused on the production of the institution's physical space. Both topics demonstrate the organization of a network of texts and agents that contributed to the institutionalization of the Legal Medicine in São Paulo and determined the position of dominance of the institute as an administrative machinery, specialized in forensic practice and teaching. Along this path, it becomes clear how intra and inter-institutional mechanisms became entangled in the configuration of the IOF in São Paulo, both inseparable from the historical context of disputes and negotiations surrounding Forensic Medicine institutionalization.