bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Figure S1 from Structural Insight into Geranylgeranyl Diphosphate Synthase (GGDPS) for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Pham Andrew C. , Holstein Sarah A. , Borgstahl Gloria E.O.
Published: January 2024

Higher-order organization of GGDPS subunits. A. The dimer interface between chains A (green) and B (cyan) from hGGDPS. A ribbon diagram of the involved alpha helices and side chains in the green and cyan chains are shown. Alpha helices are labeled sequentially. Amino acids are labeled by number only at the α-carbon position. Not all residues are labeled but those found at the front were given preference. Helix α4 and helix α5 are seen to contribute the most to the dimeric organization of the chains. Helix α1 lightly contributes to the dimer interface by interacting with helices α5 and α6 of the opposing chain. Helix α3 forms interactions with helix α4. Similar dimeric interfaces are seen between chains C and D (magenta and yellow) as well as chains E and F (salmon and white). B. The trimeric interface of hGGDPS. The protein surface of solved hGGDPS structure (2Q80) is shown. Chain A (green) is seen to associate with chain D (yellow) and chain E (salmon). Similar interactions are seen for each trimer throughout the hexamer. Carbon atoms of residues contributing to the trimer interface are colored in maroon (region 1) or sky blue (region 2) and are shown in stick representation (red, oxygen; dark blue, nitrogen).
Data from SLFN11 is a BRCA Independent Biomarker for the Response to Platinum-Based Chemotherapy in High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer and Clear Cell Ovarian Carcinoma
Authors: Akashi Hidehiko , Yachida Nozomi , Ueda Haruka , Yamaguchi Manako , Yamawaki Kaoru , Tamura Ryo , Suda Kazuaki , Ishiguro Tatsuya , Adachi Sosuke , Nagase Yoshikazu , Ueda Yutaka , Ueda Masashi , Abiko Kaoru , Kagabu Masahiro , Baba Tsukasa , Nakaoka Hirofumi , Enomoto Takayuki , Murai Junko , Yoshihara Kosuke
Published: January 2024

Abstract
BRCA1/2 mutations are robust biomarkers for platinum-based chemotherapy in epithelial ovarian cancers. However, BRCA1/2 mutations in clear cell ovarian carcinoma (CCC) are less frequent compared with high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSC). The discovery of biomarkers that can be applied to CCC is an unmet need in chemotherapy. Schlafen 11 (SLFN11) has attracted attention as a novel sensitizer for DNA-damaging agents including platinum. In this study, we investigated the utility of SLFN11 in HGSC and CCC for platinum-based chemotherapy. SLFN11 expression was analyzed retrospectively by IHC across 326 ovarian cancer samples. The clinicopathologic significance of SLFN11 expression was analyzed across 57 advanced HGSC as a discovery set, 96 advanced HGSC as a validation set, and 57 advanced CCC cases, all of whom received platinum-based chemotherapy. BRCA1/2 mutation was analyzed using targeted-gene sequencing. In the HGSC cohort, the SLFN11-positive and BRCA mutation group showed significantly longer whereas the SLFN11-negative and BRCA wild-type group showed significantly shorter progression-free survival and overall survival. Moreover, SLFN11-positive HGSC shrunk significantly better than SLFN11-negative HGSC after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Comparable results were obtained with CCC but without consideration of BRCA1/2 mutation due to a small population. Multivariate analysis identified SLFN11 as an independent factor for better survival in HGSC and CCC. The SLFN11-dependent sensitivity to platinum and PARP inhibitors were validated with genetically modified non-HGSC ovarian cancer cell lines. Our study reveals that SLFN11 predicts platinum sensitivity in HGSC and CCC independently of BRCA1/2 mutation status, indicating that SLFN11 assessment can guide treatment selection in HGSC and CCC.
Data from Brentuximab Vedotin–Driven Microtubule Disruption Results in Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Leading to Immunogenic Cell Death and Antitumor Immunity
Authors: Heiser Ryan A. , Cao Anthony T. , Zeng Weiping , Ulrich Michelle , Younan Patrick , Anderson Martha E. , Trueblood Esther S. , Jonas Mechthild , Thurman Robert , Law Che-Leung , Gardai Shyra J.
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Brentuximab vedotin, a CD30-directed antibody–drug conjugate (ADC), is approved for clinical use in multiple CD30-expressing lymphomas. The cytotoxic payload component of brentuximab vedotin is monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE), a highly potent microtubule-disrupting agent. Preclinical results provided here demonstrate that treatment of cancer cells with brentuximab vedotin or free MMAE leads to a catastrophic disruption of the microtubule network eliciting a robust endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress response that culminates in the induction of the classic hallmarks of immunogenic cell death (ICD). In accordance with the induction of ICD, brentuximab vedotin–killed lymphoma cells drove innate immune cell activation in vitro and in vivo. In the “gold-standard” test of ICD, vaccination of mice with brentuximab vedotin or free MMAE-killed tumor cells protected animals from tumor rechallenge; in addition, T cells transferred from previously vaccinated animals slowed tumor growth in immunodeficient mice. Immunity acquired from killed tumor cell vaccination was further amplified by the addition of PD-1 blockade. In a humanized model of CD30+ B-cell tumors, treatment with brentuximab vedotin drove the expansion and recruitment of autologous Epstein-Barr virus–reactive CD8+ T cells potentiating the activity of anti–PD-1 therapy. Together, these data support the ability of brentuximab vedotin and MMAE to drive ICD in tumor cells resulting in the activation of antigen-presenting cells and augmented T-cell immunity. These data provide a strong rationale for the clinical combination of brentuximab vedotin and other MMAE-based ADCs with checkpoint inhibitors.
Data from MIG6 Mediates Adaptive and Acquired Resistance to ALK/ROS1 Fusion Kinase Inhibition through EGFR Bypass Signaling
Authors: Chen Nan , Tyler Logan C. , Le Anh T. , Welsh Eric A. , Fang Bin , Elliott Andrew , Davies Kurtis D. , Danhorn Thomas , Riely Gregory J. , Ladanyi Marc , Haura Eric B. , Doebele Robert C.
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Despite the initial benefit from tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) targeting oncogenic ALK and ROS1 gene fusions in non–small cell lung cancer, complete responses are rare and resistance ultimately emerges from residual tumor cells. Although several acquired resistance mechanisms have been reported at the time of disease progression, adaptative resistance mechanisms that contribute to residual diseases before the outgrowth of tumor cells with acquired resistance are less clear. For the patients who have progressed after TKI treatments, but do not demonstrate ALK/ROS1 kinase mutations, there is a lack of biomarkers to guide effective treatments. Herein, we found that phosphorylation of MIG6, encoded by the ERRFI1 gene, was downregulated by ALK/ROS1 inhibitors as were mRNA levels, thus potentiating EGFR activity to support cell survival as an adaptive resistance mechanism. MIG6 downregulation was sustained following chronic exposure to ALK/ROS1 inhibitors to support the establishment of acquired resistance. A higher ratio of EGFR to MIG6 expression was found in ALK TKI-treated and ALK TKI-resistant tumors and correlated with the poor responsiveness to ALK/ROS1 inhibition in patient-derived cell lines. Furthermore, we identified and validated a MIG6 EGFR-binding domain truncation mutation in mediating resistance to ROS1 inhibitors but sensitivity to EGFR inhibitors. A MIG6 deletion was also found in a patient after progressing to ROS1 inhibition. Collectively, this study identifies MIG6 as a novel regulator for EGFR-mediated adaptive and acquired resistance to ALK/ROS1 inhibitors and suggests EGFR to MIG6 ratios and MIG6-damaging alterations as biomarkers to predict responsiveness to ALK/ROS1 and EGFR inhibitors.
Supplementary Table 2 from T cell–Dependent Bispecific Therapy Enhances Innate Immune Activation and Antibody-Mediated Killing
Authors: Besla Rickvinder , Penuel Elicia , Del Rosario Geoff , Cosino Ely , Myrta Szymon , Dillon Mike , Lazar Greg A. , Nickles Dorothee , Spiess Christoph , Yu Shang-Fan , Polson Andrew G.
Published: January 2024

Supplemental Table S2: Results of a gene set enrichment analysis comparing baseline NK cells to NK cells 24 hours after T cell-dependent bispecific (TDB) treatment.
Supplementary Table 1 from T cell–Dependent Bispecific Therapy Enhances Innate Immune Activation and Antibody-Mediated Killing
Authors: Besla Rickvinder , Penuel Elicia , Del Rosario Geoff , Cosino Ely , Myrta Szymon , Dillon Mike , Lazar Greg A. , Nickles Dorothee , Spiess Christoph , Yu Shang-Fan , Polson Andrew G.
Published: January 2024

Supplemental Table S1: Results of a differential gene expression analysis comparing baseline NK cells to NK cells 24 hours after T cell-dependent bispecific (TDB) treatment.
Supplementary Figure 6 from T cell–Dependent Bispecific Therapy Enhances Innate Immune Activation and Antibody-Mediated Killing
Authors: Besla Rickvinder , Penuel Elicia , Del Rosario Geoff , Cosino Ely , Myrta Szymon , Dillon Mike , Lazar Greg A. , Nickles Dorothee , Spiess Christoph , Yu Shang-Fan , Polson Andrew G.
Published: January 2024

In vivo CD20-TDB induces systemic cytokine release.
Supplementary Figure.1 from The Tautomerase Activity of Tumor Exosomal MIF Promotes Pancreatic Cancer Progression by Modulating MDSC Differentiation
Authors: Jia Xuebing , Xi Jianbei , Tian Binle , Zhang Yuanyuan , Wang Zhilong , Wang Fan , Li Zheng , Long Jiang , Wang JianFei , Fan Guo-Huang , Li Qi
Published: January 2024

Elevation of MDSC in both the peripheral and tumor tissues of pancreatic cancer patients.
Supplementary Figure Legend from The Tautomerase Activity of Tumor Exosomal MIF Promotes Pancreatic Cancer Progression by Modulating MDSC Differentiation
Authors: Jia Xuebing , Xi Jianbei , Tian Binle , Zhang Yuanyuan , Wang Zhilong , Wang Fan , Li Zheng , Long Jiang , Wang JianFei , Fan Guo-Huang , Li Qi
Published: January 2024

Supplementary figure legend of supplementary figure 1 to 6.
Table S1 from Notch Signaling Regulates Immunosuppressive Tumor-Associated Macrophage Function in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Yan Wei , Menjivar Rosa E. , Bonilla Monica E. , Steele Nina G. , Kemp Samantha B. , Du Wenting , Donahue Katelyn L. , Brown Kristee L. , Carpenter Eileen S. , Avritt Faith R. , Irizarry-Negron Valerie M. , Yang Sion , Burns William R. , Zhang Yaqing , Pasca di Magliano Marina , Bednar Filip
Published: January 2024

Antibodies
Figure S3 from Notch Signaling Regulates Immunosuppressive Tumor-Associated Macrophage Function in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Yan Wei , Menjivar Rosa E. , Bonilla Monica E. , Steele Nina G. , Kemp Samantha B. , Du Wenting , Donahue Katelyn L. , Brown Kristee L. , Carpenter Eileen S. , Avritt Faith R. , Irizarry-Negron Valerie M. , Yang Sion , Burns William R. , Zhang Yaqing , Pasca di Magliano Marina , Bednar Filip
Published: January 2024

Notch activation detected in C57BL/6J:CBF:H2B-Venus mouse pancreatic orthotopic tumor.
Figure S2 from Notch Signaling Regulates Immunosuppressive Tumor-Associated Macrophage Function in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Yan Wei , Menjivar Rosa E. , Bonilla Monica E. , Steele Nina G. , Kemp Samantha B. , Du Wenting , Donahue Katelyn L. , Brown Kristee L. , Carpenter Eileen S. , Avritt Faith R. , Irizarry-Negron Valerie M. , Yang Sion , Burns William R. , Zhang Yaqing , Pasca di Magliano Marina , Bednar Filip
Published: January 2024

Notch activation detected in C57BL/6J:CBF:H2B-Venus mouse pancreas and tumor microenvironment of spontaneous PanIN lesions.
Figure S2 from Tyrosine Kinase Inhibition Activates Intratumoral γδ T Cells in Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor
Authors: Etherington Mark S. , Hanna Andrew N. , Medina Benjamin D. , Liu Mengyuan , Tieniber Andrew D. , Kwak Hyunjee V. , Tardy Katherine J. , Levin Lillian , Do Kevin J. , Rossi Ferdinando , Zeng Shan , DeMatteo Ronald P.
Published: January 2024

Supplemental Figure S2. Relative expression on a per cell basis in KitV558Δ/+ tumors of (A) Trdv4 and (B) multiple genes known to be members of the SCART1+ γδ T cell phenotype. Dot plots represent scRNAseq data of γδ T cells from 6 mice as detailed in the methods section.
Supplementary Figure 7 from Spatial Distribution of Immune Cells Drives Resistance to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Donati Benedetta , Reggiani Francesca , Torricelli Federica , Santandrea Giacomo , Rossi Teresa , Bisagni Alessandra , Gasparini Elisa , Neri Antonino , Cortesi Laura , Ferrari Guglielmo , Bisagni Giancarlo , Ragazzi Moira , Ciarrocchi Alessia
Published: January 2024

Supplementary Figure 7. A) Diagnostic FFPE Tru-Cut biopsies from the validation cohort were stained with H&E staining and acquired with Aperio GT450 system (Leica) (right 1x magnification with scale bar 1mm, left 20x magnification with
scale bar 50µm). B-C) Heatmaps representing unsupervised clustering considering immune activating (B) and immune inhibitory (C) genes
Supplementary Figure 3 from Spatial Distribution of Immune Cells Drives Resistance to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Donati Benedetta , Reggiani Francesca , Torricelli Federica , Santandrea Giacomo , Rossi Teresa , Bisagni Alessandra , Gasparini Elisa , Neri Antonino , Cortesi Laura , Ferrari Guglielmo , Bisagni Giancarlo , Ragazzi Moira , Ciarrocchi Alessia
Published: January 2024

Supplementary Figure 3. Analysis of differences among TME AOIs comparing pCR and pNR patients.
Supplementary Figure S4 from Combination of Anti–PD-1 and Electroacupuncture Induces a Potent Antitumor Immune Response in Microsatellite-Stable Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Wang Yuan , Liu Fengyi , Du Xiaoxue , Shi Jiaqi , Yu Rui , Li Shuang , Na Ruisi , Zhao Ying , Zhou Meng , Guo Ying , Cheng Liang , Wang Guangyu , Zheng Tongsen
Published: January 2024

Supplementary Figure S4 and legend
Supplementary Figure S1 from Combination of Anti–PD-1 and Electroacupuncture Induces a Potent Antitumor Immune Response in Microsatellite-Stable Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Wang Yuan , Liu Fengyi , Du Xiaoxue , Shi Jiaqi , Yu Rui , Li Shuang , Na Ruisi , Zhao Ying , Zhou Meng , Guo Ying , Cheng Liang , Wang Guangyu , Zheng Tongsen
Published: January 2024

Supplementary Figure S1 and legend
Table S2 from Bexmarilimab Activates Human Tumor-Associated Macrophages to Support Adaptive Immune Responses in Interferon-Poor Immune Microenvironments
Authors: Rannikko Jenna H. , Bono Petri , Hynninen Johanna , Hollmén Maija
Published: January 2024

MATINS trial pre-treatment biopsies used in this study, related to Figure
4G.
Table S1 from Bexmarilimab Activates Human Tumor-Associated Macrophages to Support Adaptive Immune Responses in Interferon-Poor Immune Microenvironments
Authors: Rannikko Jenna H. , Bono Petri , Hynninen Johanna , Hollmén Maija
Published: January 2024

Characteristics of ex vivo treated ovarian ascites samples used in this study.
Figure S7 from Bexmarilimab Activates Human Tumor-Associated Macrophages to Support Adaptive Immune Responses in Interferon-Poor Immune Microenvironments
Authors: Rannikko Jenna H. , Bono Petri , Hynninen Johanna , Hollmén Maija
Published: January 2024

Co-staining of CD68 and IL4I1, related to Figure 4.
Figure S6 from Bexmarilimab Activates Human Tumor-Associated Macrophages to Support Adaptive Immune Responses in Interferon-Poor Immune Microenvironments
Authors: Rannikko Jenna H. , Bono Petri , Hynninen Johanna , Hollmén Maija
Published: January 2024

Flow cytometry staining of primary human macrophages after IFN priming, related to Figure 4.
Figure S5 from Bexmarilimab Activates Human Tumor-Associated Macrophages to Support Adaptive Immune Responses in Interferon-Poor Immune Microenvironments
Authors: Rannikko Jenna H. , Bono Petri , Hynninen Johanna , Hollmén Maija
Published: January 2024

Characterizing ovarian cancer ascites immune cell subtypes, related to Figure 3.
Figure S2 from Bexmarilimab Activates Human Tumor-Associated Macrophages to Support Adaptive Immune Responses in Interferon-Poor Immune Microenvironments
Authors: Rannikko Jenna H. , Bono Petri , Hynninen Johanna , Hollmén Maija
Published: January 2024

scRNA-seq profiling of ovarian ascites cells after ex vivo bexmarilimab treatment, related to Figure 1.
Figure S1 from Bexmarilimab Activates Human Tumor-Associated Macrophages to Support Adaptive Immune Responses in Interferon-Poor Immune Microenvironments
Authors: Rannikko Jenna H. , Bono Petri , Hynninen Johanna , Hollmén Maija
Published: January 2024

Flow cytometry analysis of ovarian cancer ascites cells, related to Figure 1.
Data from Bexmarilimab Activates Human Tumor-Associated Macrophages to Support Adaptive Immune Responses in Interferon-Poor Immune Microenvironments
Authors: Rannikko Jenna H. , Bono Petri , Hynninen Johanna , Hollmén Maija
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) show substantially greater efficacy in inflamed tumors characterized by preexisting T-cell infiltration and IFN signaling than in noninflamed “cold” tumors, which often remain immunotherapy resistant. The cancer immunotherapy bexmarilimab, which inhibits the scavenger receptor Clever-1 to release macrophage immunosuppression and activate adaptive immunity, has shown treatment benefit in subsets of patients with advanced solid malignancies. However, the mechanisms that determine bexmarilimab therapy outcome in individual patients are unknown. Here we characterized bexmarilimab response in ovarian cancer ascites macrophages ex vivo using single-cell RNA sequencing and demonstrated increased IFN signaling and CXCL10 secretion following bexmarilimab treatment. We further showed that bexmarilimab was most efficacious in macrophages with low baseline IFN signaling, as chronic IFNγ priming abolished bexmarilimab-induced TNFα release. These results highlight an approach to target immunologically cold tumors and to increase the likelihood of their subsequent response to ICIs.
Atemwegsinfektionen bei Kindern: Fieber(-phobie) beeinflusst die ambulante Antibiotikaverordnung
Authors: Jorczyk Maximilian
Published: January 2024

Background: Antibiotic overuse in children is a significant public health concern, as it can lead to the emergence and spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Although respiratory infections account for most antibiotic prescriptions in children, many of these infections are viral and do not require antibiotics. In this study, we aimed to investigate the use of antibiotics in children with respiratory infections in a primary care setting and to explore the possible role of fever on antibiotic prescription. Methods: We conducted a prospective observational study that evaluated preschool children aged 0–5 years who were assessed by their primary care pediatricians for respiratory infectious diseases between October 2019 and March 2021. The study involved 69 public primary care pediatricians and a total of 678 pediatric episodes for respiratory infections. Results: Amoxicillin/clavulanate was the most frequently prescribed drug. Bronchitis accounted for most of inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions (73%). Furthermore, the presence of fever was associated with a  ~300% increase in the likelihood of prescribing antibiotics for respiratory infections that do not typically require antibiotics.
Knowledge and Beliefs on Mental Illness among Church Leaders: Basis for Training and Development
Authors: Del Rosario Ma. Camille P. , Lacerna Clarita , Castaños Kyle Irvine O. , Fabon Joseph , Malang Bernandino P.
Published: January 2024

Mental health awareness and support have become increasingly important worldwide, including in the Philippines. In this context, religious institutions play a crucial role in shaping societal beliefs, attitudes, and approaches to mental illness. This study investigates the knowledge and beliefs about mental illness among church leaders in the Philippines, with a focus on five religious’ denominations: Jehovah’s Witnesses, Baptist, Born Again, Iglesia Ni Cristo, and Roman Catholic.

One of the primary objectives of this research was to assess the level of knowledge church leaders possess regarding mental health. The findings indicate that church leaders in the Philippines have a moderate level of knowledge about mental health issues. The mean knowledge score, computed from their responses to a set of Likert-scale questions, falls into the category of "A little." While this level of knowledge may not be extensive, it is a positive starting point for discussions surrounding mental health within religious communities. In terms of beliefs, the respondents exhibited a somewhat agreeable perspective. 

In conclusion, this study sheds light on the knowledge and beliefs of church leaders in the Philippines regarding mental illness. While they possess a moderate level of knowledge and hold diverse beliefs about the causes and remedies for mental health challenges, their perspectives reflect a nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between religion and mental health. These findings have significant implications for mental health care and support within religious communities and provide a foundation for future research and intervention programs.
Knowledge and Attitudes Towards Mental Health Conditions among Pharmacy Interns of Specialized Hospital
Authors: Dela Cruz Joanna Mae , Orfanel-Fabon Eden , Gatpo Madelane , Mativo Cynthia , Malang Bernandino
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study is to determine the knowledge and attitudes toward mental health conditions of Pharmacy Interns in Specialized Hospital, and the role of demographic characteristics needs to be considered when investigating stigma and its relationship to mental health knowledge. Finally, align and formulate programs for Pharmacy Internship in Specialized Hospital to strengthen the positive attitudes and mitigate the negative attitudes toward mental health further.

The Mental Illness: Clinician's Attitudes Scale (Medical Student Version MICA-2) and the Mental Health Knowledge Schedule (MAKS) were completed by 25 Pharmacy Interns of Specialized Hospitals. Descriptive statistics were done to describe differences in demographic characteristics. Parametric Test Pearson R was used to assess the relationship between the knowledge and attitudes of Pharmacy Interns. The Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was the test used to compare the variations in total scores between MICA and MAKS based on various demographic factors. This study revealed that pharmacy interns of specialized hospitals have a generally positive attitude and are knowledgeable about mental health conditions. In this study, having more mental health knowledge correlates with a less stigmatizing attitude.

There was a significant difference in the attitude of Pharmacy Interns when grouped according to their educational attainment. As a recommendation, evaluation after the Pharmacy Internship through MICA and MAKS can be done. Also, Specialized Hospitals should consider implementing intervention programs to advance mental health knowledge and positive attitudes among Pharmacy Interns.
A new species Eremogone (Caryophyllaceae) from Türkiye
Authors: BEHÇET LÜTFİ , YAPAR YAKUP
Published: January 2024

Eremogone bingolense is described a new species from Bingöl province (Türkiye). The new species is related to E. cucubaloides and E. dianthoides, but it differs from E. cucubaloides by the glabrous stem, sheat and pedicel lengths, length of glabrous sepals, and petals shape and size (about 2 times longer than the sepals). E. bingolense differs from E. dianthoides by inflorescence shape and number of flowers, sheath, pedicel and sepal lengths. Ecological data and conservation status of the new species are also presented. A distribution map of the new taxon and related species is provided.
T﻿he Periphery of the USSR: Indian Travellers’ Perception of the Eastern Bloc and Non-Russian Soviet Republics in the Cold War Era
Authors: Rokicka Weronika
Published: January 2024

This article examines the perception of countries of the Eastern bloc and Soviet republics other than the Russian Soviet Republic in Indian travelogues of the Cold War era written in the Bengali language. Although most Indian travellers who came to the European countries of the Eastern bloc and the USSR at that period only visited the main cities of the Russian Soviet Republic, some ventured into lesser known territories, e.g. Estonia, Poland, or Ukraine, and in their travel accounts included one or two chapters on those regions. The distinctive feature of their travelogues is the strong focus on various aspects of social and economic life, from the education system, through workers’ rights, to public housing, and on the progress Eastern bloc countries made since coming under Soviet influence. The article argues that Indian travellers created the image of Eastern bloc countries and Soviet republics other than the Russian Soviet Republic as a periphery of Soviet Russia by constantly comparing the two, presenting Russia as the heart of the Soviet world and focusing on problems other parts of the USSR and the Eastern bloc still faced despite of what they perceived as Moscow’s assistance.
The Response of Precipitation to Initial Soil Moisture over the Tibetan Plateau: Respective Effects of Boundary Layer Vertical Heat and Vapor Diffusions
Authors: Zhang Feimin , Bi Kaixuan , Wei Sentao , Wang Chenghai
Published: January 2024

This study investigates the influences of initial soil moisture over the Tibetan Plateau (TP) on precipitation simulation, and the respective effects of boundary layer vertical diffusion for heat (Kh) and vapor (Kq). Results indicate that the responses of boundary layer vertical diffusion to soil moisture are obvious mainly in the daytime. Wetter land surface corresponds to weaker vertical diffusion, which could strengthen thermal forcing and dynamic lifting in the lower atmosphere, and encourage water vapor saturation near the top of boundary layer to prevent the environmental dry air entrainment/invasion, which would be beneficial to more convection and precipitation. Wetter land surface over the TP could enhance the contrast between the cold in the northwestern TP and the warm in the southeastern TP, which would be conducive to the southeastward propagation of precipitation. The simulation of heat and moisture in the boundary layer could be improved by perturbing the relative intensity of Kh and Kq. From the perspective of heat and moisture, Kh affects atmospheric stability, while Kq affects moisture and its vertical transport in the boundary layer. The Kh and Kq have competitive effects on precipitation intensity by influencing the relative importance of moisture and atmospheric stability conditions in the boundary layer. Adjusting the relative intensity of Kh and Kq would deactivate the competitive effects. Stronger Kh but weaker Kq would alleviate the overestimated precipitation by inhibiting vertical transport of moisture to the top of boundary layer and attenuating convective instability in the boundary layer.

Significance Statement

The purpose of this study is to better understand the effects of boundary layer vertical heat and moisture diffusion in the response of precipitation to soil moisture. This is important because boundary layer vertical diffusion is a crucial factor influencing the relation between soil moisture and precipitation. Our results reveal the competitive effects of boundary layer vertical diffusion for heat and vapor on the simulation of precipitation. These results point a potential way toward better understanding the response of precipitation to soil moisture.
Thermal regulation capacity of a green roof in the Mediterranean climate of Istanbul
Authors: İokhim Pavel , Ekşi Mert
Published: January 2024

Green roofs are considered sustainable practices in the urban environment as they provide several benefits to the city and to the building such as mitigating the urban heat island effect and optimizing the energy performance of buildings. The impact of green roofs on the energy balance of urban building surfaces in warmer climates, such as the Mediterranean, is still under investigation. In this study, 5 years of experimental data recorded between 2015 and 2020 were analyzed in comparison between a non-insulated flat roof and a green roof. The aim of this study is to investigate the thermal regulation capacity of green roofs on the energy balance of buildings and their efficiency as potential UHI mitigation strategies to make cities more resilient. Results of the study demonstrated that despite the limited depth of the substrate and plant diversity, the green roof provided thermal regulation to the building by reducing temperature fluctuations and moderating temperatures for both the building and its surrounding environment.

Practical application

This study provides evidence that the implementation of a green roof could effectively moderate roof temperatures and reduce fluctuations, especially during the summer season. Furthermore, the study demonstrated that even a simple and shallow extensive green roof could provide thermal benefits in a Mediterranean climate. Therefore, due to its structural lower weight, this type of green roofs could be installed on existing buildings and could provide thermal benefits to the building and the city.
Traffic Performance of Successive Freeway Merge Segments
Authors: Brandenburg Alexander , Sauer Julian , Geistefeldt Justin
Published: January 2024

At freeway interchanges with high entering flows, implementing two successive merges can improve traffic flow and capacity by distributing the merging maneuvers. The German Guidelines for the Design of Motorways define different types of successive (“double”) merges. According to the quality of service assessment procedure for freeway merge segments given in the German Highway Capacity Manual, successive merge segments can be evaluated separately. However, depending on the distance between the merges, the capacity of the second (downstream) merge might be affected by the entering traffic at the first (upstream) merge, which influences the lane-flow distribution. For a more precise evaluation of traffic flow performance and traffic safety depending on the geometric design characteristics, vehicle interactions, lane changes, the resulting capacity of successive merge segments, accident rates, and crash types were analyzed in the study. The research was based on loop detector data as well as trajectory data obtained from video measurements, which provide an insight into the interactions between mainline and entering vehicles. For the analysis of traffic safety, crash data were evaluated over a period of 3 years. Furthermore, successive merge segments with different geometric and traffic characteristics were modeled with the microscopic traffic simulation tool BABSIM to analyze the influence on traffic flow and capacity. As a result, capacity models and recommendations for the geometric design of successive freeway merge segments are provided.
Transfer RNA-derived small RNA tRF-Glu-CTC attenuates neointimal formation via inhibition of fibromodulin
Authors: Jiang Qi-Lan , Xu Jia-Ying , Yao Qing-Ping , Jiang Rui , Xu Qin , Zhang Bo-Tao , Li Tao , Jiang Jun
Published: January 2024

Neointimal hyperplasia is a pathological vascular remodeling caused by abnormal proliferation and migration of subintimal vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) following intimal injury. There is increasing evidence that tRNA-derived small RNA (tsRNA) plays an important role in vascular remodeling. The purpose of this study is to search for tsRNAs signature of neointima formation and to explore their potential functions. The balloon injury model of rat common carotid artery was replicated to induce intimal hyperplasia, and the differentially expressed tsRNAs (DE-tsRNAs) in arteries with intimal hyperplasia were screened by small RNA sequencing and tsRNA library. A total of 24 DE-tsRNAs were found in the vessels with intimal hyperplasia by small RNA sequencing. In vitro, tRF-Glu-CTC inhibited the expression of fibromodulin (FMOD) in VSMCs, which is a negative modulator of TGF-β1 activity. tRF-Glu-CTC also increased VSMC proliferation and migration. In vivo experiments showed that inhibition of tRF-Glu-CTC expression after balloon injury of rat carotid artery can reduce the neointimal area. In conclusion, tRF-Glu-CTC expression is increased after vascular injury and inhibits FMOD expression in VSMCs, which influences neointima formation. On the other hand, reducing the expression of tRF-Glu-CTC after vascular injury may be a potential approach to prevent vascular stenosis.
Intergrative metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses reveal the potential regulatory mechanism of unique dihydroxy fatty acid biosynthesis in the seeds of an industrial oilseed crop Orychophragmus violaceus
Authors: Jia Changfu , Lai Qiang , Zhu Yiman , Feng Jiajun , Dan Xuming , Zhang Yulin , Long Zhiqin , Wu Jiali , Wang Zeng , Qumu Xiner , Wang Rui , Wang Jing
Published: January 2024

Background

Orychophragmus violaceus is a potentially important industrial oilseed crop due to the two 24-carbon dihydroxy fatty acids (diOH-FA) that was newly identified from its seed oil via a ‘discontinuous elongation’ process. Although many research efforts have focused on the diOH-FA biosynthesis mechanism and identified the potential co-expressed diacylglycerol acyltranferase (DGAT) gene associated with triacylglycerol (TAG)-polyestolides biosynthesis, the dynamics of metabolic changes during seed development of O. violaceus as well as its associated regulatory network changes are poorly understood.

Results

In this study, by combining metabolome and transcriptome analysis, we identified that 1,003 metabolites and 22,479 genes were active across four stages of seed development, which were further divided into three main clusters based on the patterns of metabolite accumulation and/or gene expression. Among which, cluster2 was mostly related to diOH-FA biosynthesis pathway. We thus further constructed transcription factor (TF)-structural genes regulatory map for the genes associated with the flavonoids, fatty acids and diOH-FA biosynthesis pathway in this cluster. In particular, several TF families such as bHLH, B3, HD-ZIP, MYB were found to potentially regulate the metabolism associated with the diOH-FA pathway. Among which, multiple candidate TFs with promising potential for increasing the diOH-FA content were identified, and we further traced the evolutionary history of these key genes among species of Brassicaceae.

Conclusion

Taken together, our study provides new insight into the gene resources and potential relevant regulatory mechanisms of diOH-FA biosynthesis uniquely in seeds of O. violaceus, which will help to promote the downstream breeding efforts of this potential oilseed crop and advance the bio-lubricant industry.
Plastid genome and its phylogenetic implications of Asiatic Spiraea (Rosaceae)
Authors: Zhang Shu-Yan , Yan Hai-Fei , Wei Lei , Liu Tong-Jian , Chen Lin , Hao Gang , Wu Xing , Zhang Qiao-Ling
Published: January 2024

Background

Spiraea L. is a genus comprising approximately 90 species that are distributed throughout the northern temperate regions. China is recognized as the center of species diversity for this genus, hosting more than 70 species, including 47 endemic species. While Spiraea is well-known for its ornamental value, its taxonomic and phylogenetic studies have been insufficient.

Results

In this study, we conducted sequencing and assembly of the plastid genomes (plastomes) of 34 Asiatic Spiraea accessions (representing 27 Asiatic Spiraea species) from China and neighboring regions. The Spiraea plastid genome exhibits typical quadripartite structures and encodes 113–114 genes, including 78–79 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 30 tRNA genes, and 4 rRNA genes. Linear regression analysis revealed a significant correlation between genome size and the length of the SC region. By the sliding windows method, we identified several hypervariable hotspots within the Spiraea plastome, all of which were localized in the SC regions. Our phylogenomic analysis successfully established a robust phylogenetic framework for Spiraea, but it did not support the current defined section boundaries. Additionally, we discovered that the genus underwent diversification after the Early Oligocene (~ 30 Ma), followed by a rapid speciation process during the Pliocene and Pleistocene periods.

Conclusions

The plastomes of Spiraea provided us invaluable insights into its phylogenetic relationships and evolutionary history. In conjunction with plastome data, further investigations utilizing other genomes, such as the nuclear genome, are urgently needed to enhance our understanding of the evolutionary history of this genus.
Impact of prognostic nutritional index change on prognosis after colorectal cancer surgery under propofol or sevoflurane anesthesia
Authors: Zhang Longtang , Liu Chong , Yan Qiang , Cai Xiaoli
Published: January 2024

Background

The alteration of the prognostic nutritional index (PNI) or the utilization of distinct anesthesia strategies has been linked to the prognosis of various cancer types, but the existing evidence is limited and inconclusive, particularly for colorectal cancer (CRC). Our objective was to evaluate the association between PNI change and progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in patients treated with CRC surgery after propofol-based or sevoflurane-based anesthesia.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of 414 patients with CRC who underwent surgical resection. Among them, 165 patients received propofol-based total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA-P), while 249 patients received sevoflurane-based inhalation anesthesia (IA-S). The PNI change (ΔPNI) was calculated by subtracting the pre-surgery PNI from the post-surgery PNI, and patients were categorized into high (≥ -2.25) and low (< -2.25) ΔPNI groups. Univariate and multivariate analyses were employed to evaluate the effects of the two anesthesia methods, ΔPNI, and their potential interaction on PFS and OS.

Results

The median duration of follow-up was 35.9 months (interquartile range: 18–60 months). The five-year OS rates were 63.0% in the TIVA-P group and 59.8% in the IA-S group (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.96; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.70–1.35; p = 0.864), while the five-year PFS rates were 55.8% and 51.0% (HR: 0.92; 95% CI: 0.68–1.26; p = 0.614), respectively. In comparison to patients in the low ΔPNI group, those in the high ΔPNI group exhibited a favorable association with both OS (HR: 0.57; 95% CI: 0.40–0.76; p < 0.001) and PFS (HR: 0.58; 95% CI: 0.43–0.79; p < 0.001). Stratified analysis based on ΔPNI revealed significant protective effects in the propofol-treated participants within the high ΔPNI group, whereas such effects were not observed in the low ΔPNI group, for both OS (p for interaction = 0.004) and PFS (p for interaction = 0.024).

Conclusions

Our data revealed that among patients who underwent CRC surgery, those treated with TIVA-P exhibited superior survival outcomes compared to those who received IA-S, particularly among individuals with a high degree of PNI change.
Carotid blood flow changes following a simulated end-inspiratory occlusion maneuver measured by ultrasound can predict hypotension after the induction of general anesthesia: an observational study
Authors: Jin Guangshan , Liu Fuqiang , Yang Yiwen , Chen Jiahui , Wen Qian , Wang Yudong , Yu Ling , He Jianhua
Published: January 2024

Background

The primary purpose of this study was to investigate the predictive value of alterations in cervical artery hemodynamic parameters induced by a simulated end-inspiratory occlusion test (sEIOT) measured by ultrasound for predicting postinduction hypotension (PIH) during general anesthesia.

Methods

Patients undergoing gastrointestinal tumor resection under general anesthesia were selected for this study. Ultrasound has been utilized to assess hemodynamic parameters in carotid artery blood flow before induction, specifically focusing on variations in corrected flow time (ΔFTc) and peak blood flow velocity (ΔCDPV), both before and after sEIOT. Anesthesia was induced by midazolam, sufentanil, propofol, and rocuronium, and blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR) were recorded within the first 10 min following endotracheal intubation. PIH was defined as fall in systolic blood pressure (SBP) or mean arterial pressure (MAP) by > 30% of baseline or MAP to < 60 mm Hg.

Results

The area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUC) for carotid artery ΔFTc was 0.88 (95%CI, 0.81 to 0.96; P < 0.001), and the optimal cutoff value was -16.57%, with a sensitivity of 91.4% and specificity of 77.60%. The gray zone for carotid artery ΔFTc was -16.34% to -15.36% and included 14% of the patients. The AUC for ΔCDPV was 0.54, with an optimal cutoff value of -1.47%. The sensitivity and specificity were calculated as 55.20% and 57.10%, respectively.

Conclusion

The corrected blood flow time changes in the carotid artery induced by sEIOT can predict hypotension following general anesthesia-induced hypotension, wherein ΔFTc less than 16.57% is the threshold.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (www.chictr.org.cn; 20/06/2023; ChiCTR2300072632).
Sutureless Biological Aortic Valve Replacement (Su-AVR) in Redo operations: a retrospective real-world experience report of clinical and echocardiographic outcomes
Authors: Cummings Ian , Salmasi M Yousuf , Bulut Halil Ibrahim , Zientara Alicja , AlShiekh Mahmoud , Asimakopoulos George
Published: January 2024

Objective

This retrospective study aimed to compare the outcomes of sutureless aortic valve replacement (su-AVR) and conventional bioprosthetic sutured AVR (cAVR) in high-risk patients undergoing redo surgery.

Methods

A total of 79 patients who underwent redo AVR between 2014 and 2021 were included in the study. Of these, 27 patients underwent su-AVR and 52 underwent cAVR. Patient characteristics and clinical outcomes were analysed using multivariate regression and Kaplan Meier survival test.

Results

The groups were similar in terms of age, gender, left ventricular function, and number of previous sternotomies. In cases of isolated AVR, su-AVR had significantly lower cross clamp times than cAVR (71 vs. 86 min, p = 0.03). Postoperatively, 4 cAVR patients required pacemaker compared to zero patients in the su-AVR group. There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of postoperative complications, intrahospital stay (median 9 days, IQR 7–20), or in-hospital mortality (1 su-AVR; 2 cAVR). The long-term survival rate was similar between the su-AVR (90%) and cAVR (92%) groups (log rank p = 0.8). The transvalvular gradients at follow-up were not affected by the type of valve used, regardless of the valve size (coef 2.68, 95%CI -3.14–8.50, p = 0.36).

Conclusion

The study suggests that su-AVR is a feasible and safe alternative to cAVR in high-risk patients undergoing redo surgery. The use of su-AVR offers comparable outcomes to cAVR, with reduced cross clamp times and a lower incidence of postoperative pacemaker requirement in isolated AVR cases. The results of this study contribute to the growing body of evidence supporting the use of su-AVR in high-risk patients, highlighting its feasibility and safety in redo surgeries.
Elevated neutrophyl-to-lymphocyte ratioand smoking are associated with chronic total occlusion in patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Fedrizal Fenandri Fadillah , Wijaya Ika Prasetya , Abdullah Murdani , Yamin Muhammad
Published: January 2024

Background

Atherosclerosis is a progressive disease characterized by the build-up of lipids and connective tissue in the large arteries. Some patients experience chronic total occlusion (CTO). Inflammation plays a key role in the development and complications of atherosclerosis. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is a marker of systemic inflammation associated with the development of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). We aimed to assess the relationship between NLR and CTO in ACS patients with ST elevated myocardial infarction (STEMI) in Indonesia.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was performed with secondary data obtained from patient medical records at Cipto Mangunkusumo National Central Hospital, Jakarta. Inclusion criteria were patients with ACS and STEMI who underwent coronary angiography in 2015–2018.

Results

A total of 98 patients were enrolled in the analysis. Most subjects with CTO were male, elderly (> 60), smoking, had no history of diabetes mellitus (DM) or hypertension, no family history of coronary heart disease (CHD), but had a history of ACS and had never consumed statin or antiplatelet medications. Bivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that male gender (PR = 1.820; 95%CI 0.871–3.805; p = 0.025) and smoking (PR = 1.781; 95%CI 1.028–3.086; p = 0.004) were significantly correlated with CTO. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve revealed that higher NLR (≥ 6.42) could predict a CTO diagnosis with positive predictive value (PPV) of 91%. Multivariate analysis revealed that NLR was correlated with an 11.2-fold increase in occurrence of CTO (95%CI 3.250-38.303; p < 0.001). Additionally, smoking was correlated with a 7-fold increase in CTO (95% CI 1.791–30.508; p = 0.006).

Conclusion

NLR value of ≥ 6.42 is potentially useful as a marker of CTO in STEMI patients. In addition, smoking increases the risk of CTO in ACS/STEMI patients.
Nurses’ challenges for disaster response: a qualitative study
Authors: Farokhzadian Jamileh , Mangolian Shahrbabaki Parvin , Farahmandnia Hojjat , Taskiran Eskici Gülcan , Soltani Goki Faezeh
Published: January 2024

Background

Healthcare providers, particularly nurses, play a critical role in mitigating the impact of disasters on victims and the healthcare system. However, nurses face unique challenges in disasters that may not experience in their daily practice, which can make it harder for them to deal with disasters efficiently. This study aimed to investigate the challenges faced by nurses for disaster response.

Methods

A qualitative content analysis approach was used in this study. Purposeful sampling was used to select 24 nurses working in the emergency departments of hospitals in Kerman, southeastern Iran. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using MAXQDA10. The conventional content analysis method proposed by Graneheim and Lundman was used to analyze the data.

Results

The analysis of the findings resulted in one major category, insufficient ability of nurses to respond to disasters, and five subcategories: diverse nursing conditions during disasters, inappropriate interactive platform during disasters, the presence of obstacles to teamwork, lack of platform for nurses to acquire adequate disaster risk management competence, and moral tension in complex disaster situations.

Conclusions

Determining the challenges that nurses face during disasters is essential for improving disaster response efforts, promoting disaster preparedness, ensuring appropriate care for patients, and reducing emotional fatigue among nurses. Finally, nursing leaders, healthcare policymakers and governments should use these findings to better support the nursing workforce in disasters.