bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Matricaria chamomilla L. Ameliorates Asthma by Protecting OVA‐Induced Rats and LPS‐Induced Human Bronchial Epithelial Cells Through Suppressing Autophagy and Apoptosis
Authors: Peng Jun , Zhao Feicui , Kang Xiaolong , Aierken Nadire , Li Qian
Published: February 2025

The rising prevalence of asthma has heightened awareness of the benefits of functional foods and nutraceuticals for managing the condition. Matricaria chamomilla L., a plant with various health benefits, is commonly consumed as tea in China and other countries. We previously reported the chemical composition and anti‐asthma effect of the active fraction of M. Chamomile (MC). This study investigated the protective mechanism of MC on asthma using an ovalbumin (OVA)‐induced asthma model in rats and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced human bronchial epithelial cells (16HBE). The effect of MC on asthmatic rats was evaluated through biochemical and histological analyses. Following treatment with MC in OVA‐induced asthmatic rats, improvements were observed in behavioral measures, total and differential cell counts of leukocytes in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), inflammatory cell infiltration, and the structural integrity of lung and bronchial tissues. Additionally, immunohistochemical analysis revealed an increase in the protein expression level of Kif3a, while the expression levels of LC‐3B, BECN1, and Caspase‐3 were decreased. Furthermore, the effect of MC on autophagy was analyzed using an LPS‐induced 16HBE cell model. MC reduced cell damage and determined the optimal treatment concentration at 200 μg/mL for 48 h; LPS‐induced cell apoptosis was reversed by MC using flow cytometry analysis. Autophagy flux was measured through mRFP‐GFP‐LC3 adenovirus, and MC blocked the autophagic flux of 16HBE cells induced by LPS. The mRNA and protein expression of LC3‐II, BECN1, and Cleaved Caspase‐3 were decreased, whereas Kif3a was increased following treatment with MC. The protective effect of co‐treatment with 3‐MA and MC was more significant, and MC exhibited similar efficacy to 3‐MA in inhibiting autophagy. Hence, MC is a potential autophagy inhibitor, which could inhibit over‐activated autophagy levels to enhance Kif3a expression, thereby decreasing apoptosis to against asthma. M. Chamomile is a promising pharmaceutical and dietary supplement candidate for the amelioration of asthma.
Synchronous clear cell renal cell carcinoma and classic Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Christie‐Nguyen Phuoc , Ahmed Ahmed A , Ibrahim Nourhan , Armstrong Jacob , Mai Brenda
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The coexistence of renal cell carcinoma and classic Hodgkin lymphoma is exceedingly rare, with only two documented cases. Here, we present the third case diagnosed in our institution.

Case presentation

A 46‐year‐old man presented with right flank pain, fever, mild pancytopenia, and renal mass on computed tomography scan, suggesting renal malignancy. Despite intravenous antibiotics and extensive workup for recurrent fever, his condition did not improve. A bone marrow biopsy revealed rare large EBV‐positive B cells. Surprisingly, imaging only showed minimal intraabdominal lymphadenopathy in the perinephric region. Subsequent surgery confirmed clear cell renal cell carcinoma in the kidney and scattered large, atypical cells consistent with classic Hodgkin lymphoma in the suprahilar lymph node.

Conclusion

This case presents a rare case of classic Hodgkin lymphoma occurring in the perirenal region. When clinicians encounter unexplained symptoms in patients with primary tumors, additional biopsies should be considered for possible secondary malignancy.
Epidemiology of hallux valgus surgery in Italy: A nationwide study from 2001 to 2016
Authors: Longo Umile Giuseppe , Papalia Rocco , Mazzola Alessandro , De Salvatore Sergio , Marinozzi Andrea , Campi Stefano , Piergentili Ilaria , D'Hooghe Margaux , Zaffagnini Stefano , Samuelsson Kristian , Denaro Vincenzo
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study intended to estimate the annual number of hallux valgus surgical procedures in Italy and the patients' epidemiological features. A secondary goal was to compare the demographic differences in access to hallux valgus surgery amongst three Italian macroregions.

Methods

The analysis was conducted by using the National Hospital Discharge Records database provided by the Italian Ministry of Health.

Results

721,514 surgical procedures for Acquired Hallux valgus were performed. The cumulative incidence was 88.2 procedures for every 100,000 Italian residents. The highest number of procedures was found in the 60–64 age class. 91.2% of patients were females. The mean length of hospitalisation was 2.1 ± 2.2 days. Patients aged 95–99 had more days of hospitalisation on average. 51.9% of procedures were performed in the North, 25.7% in the Centre and 22.4% in the South. 98.5% of patients from the North received surgical treatment in the same macroregion of domicile: 90% in the Centre and 78.5% in the South. The main primary procedure was: bunionectomy with soft tissue correction and osteotomy of the first metatarsal (79.9%, 77.51 International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification code).

Conclusions

The socio‐economic burden of hallux valgus surgery in Italy is relevant. The incidence of hallux valgus surgery has progressively increased between 2001 and 2012 and decreased from 2012 to 2016. A geographically unequal distribution of procedures between the three Italian macroregions was pointed out. Migratory flows of patients from the South to the North for undergoing the procedure were observed.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
Analysis of C4 Concentrations to Predict Impact of Patient‐Reported Diarrhea Associated With the Ileal Bile Acid Transporter Inhibitor Linerixibat
Authors: Carreño Fernando , Mehta Rashmi , de Souza Andrea Ribeiro , Collins Jon , Swift Brandon
Published: February 2025

Linerixibat, an ileal bile acid transporter (IBAT) inhibitor, is being evaluated for the treatment of pruritus in primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). Diarrhea is commonly reported with this drug class as IBAT inhibition redirects bile acids (BA) to the colon. Serum 7‐alpha‐hydroxy‐4‐cholesten‐3‐one (C4) measurement is a validated method to identify BA diarrhea. To inform dose selection, we characterized the relationship between linerixibat dose, C4 levels, and patient‐reported bother on the gastrointestinal symptom rating scale (GSRS) diarrhea question. A kinetic‐pharmacodynamic model was developed using data from five Phase 1/2 trials, to describe the effect of linerixibat dose (1–180 mg) and regimen (once/twice daily) on C4 concentrations over time. GSRS data from patients with PBC and pruritus in the Phase 2b GLIMMER study (NCT02966834) were used to develop a proportional odds model to predict the probability of a score of 1–7 (no–very severe discomfort) to the question “Have you been bothered by diarrhea during the past week?” in relation to linerixibat dose. The two models were linked to describe the linerixibat dose‐C4‐diarrhea bother relationship. Models were validated using graphical and numerical assessment and visual predictive checks. Linerixibat caused dose‐dependent increases in C4 until saturation (~180 mg total daily dose). Increased C4 concentrations trended with increased GSRS diarrhea scores. Simulations demonstrated increases in moderate‐to‐very severe (≥ 4) diarrhea scores with increasing linerixibat dose. Increases in patient‐reported diarrhea scores were linerixibat dose‐dependent. Selecting an optimal dose that maximizes linerixibat's ability to improve pruritus while minimizing patient‐reported diarrhea bother is important to support treatment adherence.
Post pubertal outcome after use of oral mucosa in urethral reconstruction for hypospadias in prepubertal boys: a systematic review
Authors: Tsachouridis George , Nijman Rien , de Kort Laetitia M. O. , de Graaf Petra
Published: February 2025

Oral mucosa graft urethroplasty (OMGU) is a surgical technique used in complex hypospadias repair. However, long-term outcomes in prepubertal boys, particularly through and after puberty, are not well established. To systematically review the long-term outcomes of OMGU in prepubertal boys with hypospadias, focusing on changes observed after puberty. A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library. Studies reporting long-term outcomes of OMGU in prepubertal boys with hypospadias were included. The quality of evidence was assessed using the ROBINS-I tool. Three studies of moderate quality met the inclusion criteria. Outcomes were mixed, with some patients experiencing favorable results and others facing complications such as meatal stenosis, urethral strictures, and fistulas. The scarcity of high-quality, long-term studies highlights a significant knowledge gap in this area. This systematic review reveals insufficient evidence to establish the long-term efficacy and safety of OMGU in prepubertal boys with hypospadias, particularly concerning pubertal development and post-pubertal outcomes. Future research should prioritize prospective, longitudinal studies with larger sample sizes and standardized outcome measures to address these critical gaps in understanding.
Unforeseen nodal upstaging in patients undergoing segmentectomy without frozen section: a multicenter retrospective cohort study
Authors: Huang Lin , Brunelli Alessandro , Stefanous Demetrios , Zanfrini Edoardo , Donlagic Abid , Gonzalez Michel , Petersen René Horsleben
Published: February 2025

Objective

The study aimed to evaluate the risk of unforeseen nodal upstaging (pN+) after pulmonary segmentectomy without intraoperative frozen section.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis for consecutive patients who underwent segmentectomy for clinical stage IA1-2 non-small cell lung cancer (cIA1-2 NSCLC) in three centers between January 2017 and December 2022. A backward stepwise logistic regression analysis for variables with P < 0.1 in univariable analysis was performed to predict pN+. Kaplan–Meier analysis with log-rank test evaluated the discrepancy for overall (OS) and recurrence-free survivals (RFS).

Results

Among 478 patients included in the final analysis, 19 (4.0%) had pN+, including 10 (2.1%) pN1, 6 (1.3%) pN2, and 3 (0.6%) pN1+2. With a median follow-up of 23.5 months (interquartile range 12.6–39.0), patients with pN+ had poorer OS compared to those with pN0 (3-year OS: 70.2% vs. 89.7%, P = 0.002). However, there was no significant difference in RFS and recurrence. The maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) of tumor in positron emission tomography scan ≥ 4.5 (versus < 4.5) was the only independent factor for pN + (odds ratio 3.5). Patients with a SUVmax ≥ 4.5 had 7.3% pN+, which was associated with poorer OS and similar RFS and recurrence compared to pN0. In contrast, those with a SUVmax < 4.5 had 2.2% pN+, which had comparable recurrence and survival to pN0.

Conclusion

Unforeseen nodal upstaging in segmentectomy for cIA1-2 NSCLC is low. Frozen section of lymph nodes may be necessary for lesions with high metabolic activity.
Analysis of Attitudes Toward Breastfeeding and Spiritual Life During Pregnancy in Türkiye: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Dinçer Yeliz , Erciyas Şeyma Kilci
Published: February 2025

It is crucial for nurses to understand the meaning of spirituality, which can become more pronounced during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding, and to take a supportive approach to breastfeeding attitudes during pregnancy. This study aimed to explore pregnant women’s attitudes and spiritual experiences in Türkiye regarding breastfeeding. A qualitative inductive content analysis design was employed. Seventeen pregnant women (36–39-week gestation) were admitted to a maternity hospital in Zonguldak, Türkiye. They were selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected through semi-structured, face-to-face, in-depth interviews and analyzed using an inductive content analysis approach. The mean age of the participants was 27.41 years, and ten participants were primiparous. Multiparous participants had previously breastfed for a mean duration of 19.1 months. Three main themes emerged: “Breastfeeding and life,” “Spiritual life and breastfeeding,” and “Cultural synthesis.” Considering the impact of spirituality on breastfeeding during pregnancy, these findings may help nurses recognize pregnant women’s spiritual needs and value the protective role of spirituality. Understanding these dimensions could improve the quality of support provided by healthcare professionals and potentially enhance breastfeeding outcomes.
The disservice of publishing preliminary results based on a premature hypothesis – Semmelweis’ ordeal revisited
Authors: Lynøe Niels , Juth Niklas , Eriksson Anders
Published: February 2025

In an interesting article, Dr Zuzana Parusniková claimed: (i) that Semmelweis’ colleagues did not recognise the importance of his animal experiments, (ii) that the resistance to Semmelweis’ hypothesis and results was due mainly to applying mono-causality and (iii) Semmelweis inability to communicate, (iv) that the New Vienna Medical School applied evidence-based medicine, and (v) that the philosophy of Karl Popper is the best interpretation of Semmelweis’ scientific approach. Here, we present some factual aspects of Semmelweis’ text from 1861 and discuss Dr Parusniková’s claims against this backdrop. We conclude that Semmelweis might intentionally have abstained from communicating his hypothesis and results between 1847 and 1849 – including the results from his animal experiments – as he thought that they would eventually be understood and accepted. Semmelweis’ hypothesis was that cadaveric matters and decaying particles were the cause of childbed fever and increased maternal mortality. This hypothesis might have been controversial, but we claim that the major reason for the resistance was eminence-based and induced by the publication of preliminary and suboptimal results, based on a premature version of his hypothesis. If the New Vienna Medical School had been influenced by evidence-based medicine, we believe that Semmelweis’ empirical results would have been accepted - as they were based on an almost randomised controlled trial - and if the results had not been associated with his hypothesis but instead had focused on a black box procedure. We agree that the philosophy of Popper might be appropriate when analysing Semmelweis’ scientific approach when abandoning low-level theories. However, to understand the resistance against Semmelweis’ hypothesis and results, it is not sufficient to refer to a Pickwickian discussion; a Kuhnian framework is more adequate.
Markov chains as a conceptual probabilistic model according to Vistelius
Authors: Thiergärtner Hannes
Published: February 2025

This geo-historical case study analyses Vistelius’ ingenious idea of conceptual stochastic models and their application as Markov chain analysis in the geosciences. Vistelius (1915–1995) is regarded as one of the founders of mathematical geology. He was the first to define mathematical geology as “a scientific discipline concerned with the construction, analysis and use of conceptual mathematical models of geological events to solve concrete problems” (Vistelius in Principles of mathematical geology, Nauka, Leningrad, 1980; Principles of mathematical geology, Kluwer Academic Publishers, Dordrecht, 1992). Mathematical models in this context should be primarily probabilistic because of the large number of influencing natural factors. They must be conceptual to avoid fundamental errors in application. Vistelius devoted his seminal book to geological random sequences and their description and analysis using Markov models as stochastic tools. He applied this approach to grain sequences in granitic intrusive rocks and to sedimentary rock layers. Among other things, Vistelius has used Markov chain analysis in mineral resource exploration to distinguish between “ideal” granites, which are not subsequently mineralized, and mainly hydrothermally mineralized, sometimes ore-bearing granites which contain at least two generations of main minerals. The application of this special conceptual stochastic model is demonstrated on Lusatian granite (Saxony, Germany).
Bubbles, Seekers, and Servers: A Metaphor Analysis of Jewish Identity Construction
Authors: Bankier-Karp Adina L. , Southcott Jane , Cooper Rebecca
Published: February 2025

Quantitative studies of contemporary Jewry have primarily focused on Jewish identity, examining the categories that differentiate Jewish self-conceptions, and their implications for belief, behavior, and belonging. In contrast, qualitative studies have deepened this understanding by exploring the process of identity construction. However, significant gaps remain in our knowledge about how identity is understood, particularly regarding how young people perceive agency and self-awareness when reflecting on their identity-related choices. Metaphor analysis offers insights into conceptual frameworks shaping attitudes and behaviors. This method is especially well suited for examining young people’s beliefs about identity construction and the ways these beliefs are expressed. In our study of young Australian Jews, participants used rich metaphors to describe their Jewish identities. Three dominant metaphors—the bubble, the seeker, and the server—capture participants’ Jewish identity, shaped by upbringing, milestones, and communal ties. By illuminating these metaphors, metaphor analysis enhances our understanding of the lived experience of identity construction. It offers a novel lens for studying how young Jews conceptualize their developing sense of self within a Jewish context.
A review: the potential impact of large-scale solar farms (LSSFs) on the water cycle
Authors: Alzahrani Abdulaziz S.
Published: February 2025

In renewable energy sources, wind and solar power plants are the anticipated largest benefactors to worldwide decarbonization and will be ranked as the most projected energy suppliers by 2050. Solar energy has reached new levels of affordability as a renewable energy source though they have a firm impression on the environment. The large-scale solar farms (LSSFs) cover hundreds of acres, potentially impacting the natural environmental ecohydrological processes like runoff generation and erosion. The purpose of the present paper is to appraise the present status of systematic exploration of LSSFs and their impact on the water cycle and the environment and the currently known recommendations for site management. Key findings demonstrate that LSSFs have substantial variations in hydrological cycle components in soil moisture, temperature and evaporation. Erosion reduction, strategies to control runoff and water management plans are warranted to diminish adversative impacts safeguarding sustainable amalgamation of LSSFs into the milieu.
A Study on SP-A Expression in Rat Testis during Postnatal Development
Authors: Özbek Mehmet , Ata Ayhan , Karaca Harun , Öztop Mustafa , Ergün Emel , Kankavi Orhan
Published: February 2025

Background

Surfactant proteins A (SP-A) is integral components of the host defense system, known for their significant antimicrobial properties and diverse immunomodulatory functions, particularly within the lung alveolus. Although SP-A is expressed in the testis, its specific roles in testicular cells, especially in relation to spermatogenesis, remain inadequately characterized.

Objective

This study addresses the gap by investigating the localization and expression of SP-A in rat testis tissue at 5, 20, 50, and 70 days of postnatal development. Additionally, it examines the localization of SP-A in developing spermatid to spermatozoa within seminiferous tubules.

Materials and Methods

Wistar albino rats were divided into four groups (N = 6 per group) based on distinct postnatal developmental days (PNDs): 5, 20, 50, and 70. The expression level of SP-A was estimated using Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry analysis was conducted.

Results

At PND 50, SP-A immunoreactivity was present in elongating spermatids (steps 9–15) and increased at PND 70. Notably, SP-A signals in elongated spermatids (steps 16–19) at PND 50 intensified and peaked at step 16 in early-stage I-II at PND 70 and began to decrease in steps 17–19 in stages IV-XIV at PND 70. Western blot analysis of testis tissue extracts also confirmed the gradual increase in SP-A expression corresponding to postnatal development days.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that SP-A may serve similar functions in rat testicular tissue as in lung alveoli, including roles in innate immunity, host defense, modulation of the immune response, regulation of inflammation, and protection against infections also may play a role in spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis.
Usefulness of hepatic CT attenuation values in assessment of Fontan-associated liver disease progression: a comparative study with Model of End-stage Liver Disease Excluding International Normalized Ratio scores
Authors: Kugo Yosuke , Kido Takashi , Watanabe Takuji , Nagashima Toshiaki , Taira Masaki , Yoshioka Daisuke , Shimamura Kazuo , Miyagawa Shigeru
Published: February 2025

Fontan-associated liver disease leads to liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, worsening patient prognosis. Although the Model of End-Stage Liver Disease Excluding International Normalized Ratio score correlates with disease severity, precise prediction methods remain elusive. The hepatic computed tomography (CT) attenuation is used to assess steatohepatitis, which may offer insight into disease progression. This study aimed to determine the usefulness of hepatic CT attenuation values in assessing Fontan-associated liver disease progression. All post-Fontan patients with >20 years’ follow-up data between 1980 and 2021 were reviewed. We set five regions of interest with a 20-mm-diameter circle in the peripheral region of the liver to obtain minimum, maximum, mean, and standard deviation of the CT attenuation values, which were adjusted to those of the aorta. The impact of hepatic CT attenuation values on cirrhosis development was evaluated. Cox regression revealed significant associations between adjusted minimum (hazard ratio: 0.01 [0.00–0.02, p < 0.01), adjusted maximum (hazard ratio: 159 [4.34–5831, p < 0.01]), and standard deviation (hazard ratio: 1.89 [1.29–2.76, p < 0.01]) and Model of End-Stage Liver Disease Excluding International Normalized Ratio score (hazard ratio: 1.2 [1.02–1.43, p = 0.03]) with cirrhosis. In cirrhosis cases, the adjusted minimum value exhibited significant longitudinal alteration prior to cirrhosis (p < 0.01), whereas Model of End-Stage Liver Disease Excluding International Normalized Ratio scores remained stable. The hepatic CT attenuation values were associated with cirrhosis development and the longitudinal changes are more sensitive than the Model of End-Stage Liver Disease Excluding International Normalized Ratio score.
Poetry as Conversation: Introduction to the Contemporary Ukrainian Poetry Archive
Authors: Glaser Amelia M.
Published: February 2025

Social Media did not invent poetry. But in some ways, it reinvented it. Much like the explosion of small journals in the modernist period, social media platforms have created interconnected networks of writers who share their own and others’ work, in real time, sometimes writing poems directly onto their Facebook pages or in the comment thread. This article introduces the Contemporary Ukrainian Poetry Archive, an interactive web platform, which catalogues Ukrainian poems posted to Facebook since 2013. The roughly 100 poets featured in this archive were either born in Ukraine or moved to Ukraine before 2014. The archive is multilingual, and organized by poet, theme, and language. It is also searchable by text string. This growing web resource enables and encourages scholars to engage with contemporary writing shared to social media.
“In the Language of the Aggressor, I Cry for its Victims”: Russophone Anti-War Poetry of Witnessing
Authors: Parts Lyudmila
Published: February 2025

The responses by Russian, Ukrainian, and other countries’ Russophone poets to Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 constitute a unified artistic discourse, animated by recurring topics, motifs, and images. This article aims to open a discussion of this body of work by examining one of its major topics—the Russian language as both a weapon and victim of war—and by offering an overarching theoretical framework, based on the concept of witnessing, for the analysis of contemporary artistic modes generated by war, extremity, and crisis. The topic of language foregrounds the problem of the speaking subject, participating or implicated in ongoing traumatic events. I examine these poems as poetry of witnessing: verses that employ digital media to respond to traumas and atrocities from within the events and as they unfold, while questioning the moral parameters of their response and the adequacy of their artistic instruments.
The accuracy of edentulous arch impression between intraoral scanner and laboratory scanner: a scoping review
Authors: Achmadi Athiyyah Aura , Rikmasari Rasmi , Oscandar Fahmi , Novianti Vita Mulya Passa
Published: February 2025

Objective

This study aims to compare the utilization of intraoral scanners and laboratory scanners as an alternative impression method in fully and partially edentulous cases.

Materials and methods

This scoping review that implemented the PRISMA-ScR instrument and the methodological approach by Arksey and O’Malley. A comprehensive search was conducted across four databases (PubMed, Scopus, SpringerLink, and ScienceDirect) to retrieve articles published within the last decade. Inclusion criteria were established to identify articles that analyzed the accuracy of both intraoral scanners and laboratory scanners in edentulous cases. Data extraction was performed and results were presented in tables. Subsequently, a thematic analysis was conducted to conclude the accuracy of the intraoral scanners and laboratory scanners in edentulous cases.

Results

A total of 312 articles were retrieved from four databases. After eliminating duplicates and screening based on titles, abstracts, and eligibility criteria, eight articles were selected for detailed analysis of the accuracy of each technology. Most studies investigated fully and partially edentulous arches and demonstrated the utilization of intraoral scanners and laboratory scanners. Some studies additionally analyzed the correlation between various factors influencing digital scans and the condition of edentulous arch. Evaluations of edentulous digital impressions have been conducted, with an assessment of the reliability of intraoral scanners and laboratory scanners.

Conclusion

Intraoral scanners are extensively utilized and demonstrate considerable promise for edentulous impression procedures. However, morphological differences may impact scanning outcomes.
Intermediate-dose TBI/fludarabine conditioning for allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation in patients with peripheral T-cell lymphoma
Authors: Krämer Isabelle , König Laila , Luft Thomas , Hegenbart Ute , Schönland Stefan , Eichkorn Tanja , Stadtherr Peter , Selberg Lorenz , Müller-Tidow Carsten , Dreger Peter
Published: February 2025

Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (alloHCT) is an effective treatment for patients with relapsed/refractory peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL), but the contribution of the conditioning regimen is still unclear. Here we present a retrospective single-center study using conditioning with intermediate-dose total body irradiation (TBI) and fludarabine for alloHCT in PTCL. Forty-seven patients underwent alloHCT for PTCL between 2010 and 2023 after conditioning with fludarabine and intermediate-dose TBI (8 Gy in 87% of the cases). In most patients alloHCT was administered as part of second-line therapy, in 22 (47%) patients after having been primary refractory, and 21 (45%) of the patients were chemoresistant at alloHCT. With a median follow-up of 5.5 years, 5-year progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival, relapse incidence, and non-relapse mortality were 61%, 65%, 24%, and 15%, respectively. The 5-year PFS of patients transplanted with stable disease and progressive disease was 57% and 26%, respectively. Of 11 relapses, only 2 (18%) occurred beyond 6 months post transplant, and no relapse was observed after onset of chronic graft-versus-host disease. AlloHCT with intermediate-dose TBI/fludarabine conditioning is associated with a favorable toxicity/efficacy profile and can provide durable survival in a substantial fraction of patients with PTCL including those with poorly controlled disease at transplant.
Advances of dual-organ and multi-organ systems for gut, lung, skin and liver models in absorption and metabolism studies
Authors: Brandauer Konstanze , Schweinitzer Sophie , Lorenz Alexandra , Krauß Judith , Schobesberger Silvia , Frauenlob Martin , Ertl Peter
Published: February 2025

This review highlights current in vitro models as well as microfluidic dual- and multi-organ systems with a focus on absorption (skin, lung, gut) and metabolism (liver) studies.
Sustainable nanofibrous membranes for air filtration, water purification and oil removal
Authors: Surat'man Nayli Erdeanna Binte , Quek Xin Lin , Wang Nannan , Ye Enyi , Xu Jianwei , Li Zibiao , Li Bofan
Published: February 2025

The increasing demand for sustainable solutions to address environmental and energy challenges has driven the development of advanced materials. This paper highlights recent advancements in the development of sustainable nanofibrous membranes.
3D printing of tailored veterinary dual-release tablets: a semi-solid extrusion approach for metoclopramide
Authors: Mathiyalagan Rathna , Westerlund Max , Mahran Alaa , Altunay Rabia , Suuronen Jarkko , Palo Mirja , Nyman Johan O. , Immonen Eero , Rosenholm Jessica M. , Monaco Erica , Wang Xiaoju
Published: February 2025

3D printable metoclopramide-containing ink formulation was developed for additive manufacturing of dual-release dosage forms suitable for tailored medicine to small animals.
Disentangling the stellar atmosphere and the focused wind in different accretion states of Cygnus X-1
Authors: Brigitte M. , Hadrava P. , Kubátová B. , Cabezas M. , Svoboda J. , Šlechta M. , Skarka M. , Alabarta K. , Maryeva O. , Russell D.M. , Baglio M. C.
Published: February 2025

In high-mass X-ray binaries (HMXBs), the compact object accretes the strong stellar wind of an O-B supergiant companion star. X-ray flux variations alter the stellar wind's ionization state and optical line profiles, which are important in the determination of the orbital parameters of the system. We analyzed the state-dependent variability of the line profiles by separating the components coming from the star’s atmosphere and the accreted stream of matter located between the star and the accretion disk (i.e. the focused wind). We then determined the radial velocities and the intensities of the absorption and emission lines with respect to the continuum. We performed optical high-resolution spectroscopy of the HMXB Cyg X-1 in the hard and soft-intermediate X-ray spectral states, respectively from 2022 and 2023, over multiple orbital phases. We then applied the method of Fourier disentangling to combine the spectra and isolate the stellar atmosphere and focused wind components. We observe P-Cygni profiles of the mathrm H α line in the stellar atmosphere and a wide emission from the focused wind, indicating an outflowing material. While He I 6678 is in absorption in the stellar atmosphere and not detected in the focused wind, we see a broad emission feature of He II 4686 in the focused wind. Moreover, we identify an X-ray/optical anticorrelation traced by the strength of the line intensity. The intensity of the lines drops in the soft-intermediate spectral state and the lines are more absorbed at the inferior conjunction of the star. Our results confirm that the He II emission comes from the focused wind rather than the stellar atmosphere and is produced from the re-scattering of the resonance line due to high-density clumps in the focused wind. The X-ray/optical anticorrelation shows a stronger wind in the low-hard state and the lines are stronger at the inferior conjunction of the star.
Investigating ultraviolet and infrared radiation through the turbulent life of molecular clouds
Authors: Di Mascia Fabio , Pallottini Andrea , Sommovigo Laura , Decataldo Davide
Published: February 2025

Molecular clouds (MCs) are the places where stars are formed and their feedback starts to take place, regulating the evolution of galaxies. Therefore, MCs represent the critical scale at which to study how ultraviolet (UV) photons emitted by young stars are reprocessed in the far-infrared (FIR) by interaction with dust grains, thereby determining the multiwavelength continuum emission of galaxies. Our goal is to analyze the UV and IR emission of a MC at different stages of its evolution and relate its absorption and emission properties with its morphology and star formation rate. Such a study is fundamental to determining how the properties of MCs shape the emission from entire galaxies. We considered a radiation-hydrodynamic simulation of a MC with self-consistent chemistry treatment. The MC has a mass of M_ MC is resolved down to a scale of $0.06 pc$, and evolves for ≃ 2.4 Myr after the onset of star formation. We post-processed the simulation via Monte Carlo radiative transfer calculations to compute the detailed UV-to-FIR emission of the MC. Such results were compared with data from physically motivated analytical models, other simulations, and observations. We find that the simulated MC is globally UV-optically thick, but optically thin channels allow for photon escape ($0.1%-10%$), a feature that is not well captured in analytical models. The dust temperature spans a wide range (T_ dust ∼ 20-300 K) depending on the dust-to-stellar geometry, which is reproduced reasonably well by analytical models. However, the complexity of the dust temperature distribution is not captured in the analytical models, as is evidenced by the 10 K (20 K) difference in the mass (luminosity) average temperature. Indeed, the total IR luminosity is the same in all the models, but the IR emission peaks at shorter wavelengths in the analytical ones. Compared to a sample of Galactic clouds and other simulations, our spectral energy distribution (SED) is consistent with mid-IR data, but peaks at shorter wavelengths in the IR. This is due to a lack of cold dust, as a consequence of the high gas -- and thus dust -- consumption in our simulated MC. The attenuation properties of our MC change significantly with time, evolving from a Milky-Way-like relation to a flatter, featureless one. On the IRX-β plane, the MC position strongly depends on the observing direction and on its evolutionary stage. When the MC starts to disperse, the cloud settles at log( IRX) ∼ 1 and β ∼ -0.5, slightly below most of the local empirical relations. This work represents an important test for MC simulations and a first step toward the implementation of a physically informed, sub-grid model in large-scale numerical simulations to describe the emission from unresolved MC scales and its impact on the global galaxy SED.
Three-dimensional memory of nuclear organization through cell cycles
Authors: Fujishiro Shin , Sasai Masaki
Published: February 2025

The genome in the cell nucleus is organized by a dynamic process influenced by structural memory from mitosis. In this study, we develop a model of human genome dynamics through cell cycles by extending the previously developed whole-genome model to cover the mitotic phase. With this extension, we focus on the role of mitotic and cell cycle memory in genome organization. The simulation progresses from mitosis to interphase and the subsequent mitosis, leading to successive cell cycles. During mitosis, our model describes microtubule dynamics, showing how forces orchestrate the assembly of chromosomes into a rosette ring structure at metaphase. The model explains how the positioning of chromosomes depends on their size in metaphase. The memory of the metaphase configuration persists through mitosis and into interphase in dimensions perpendicular to the cell division axis, effectively guiding the distribution of chromosome territories over multiple cell cycles. At the onset of each G1 phase, phase separation of active and inactive chromatin domains occurs, leading to A/B compartmentalization. Our cycling simulations show that the compartments are unaffected by structural memory from previous cycles and are consistently established in each cell cycle. The genome model developed in this study highlights the interplay between chromosome dynamics and structural memory across cell cycles, providing insights for the analyses of cellular processes.
Reactive rate coefficients and machine learning predictions for O(3P) + C2(X1Σg+) collisions on an accurate PIP-NN potential energy surface
Authors: Huang Xia , Wang Guosen , Guo Changmin , Cheng Xinlu , Zhang Hong
Published: February 2025

A full-dimensional potential energy surface (PES) for the 3A″ state of the [CCO] system has been constructed using neural networks (NNs) with permutationally invariant polynomials. This global analytical PES was accurately fitted from 9293 ab initio energies at the MRCI + Q/aug-cc-pVTZ level of theory. Based on the newly developed surfaces, the microscopic chemical reaction mechanisms of the O(3P) + C2(X1Σg+) → CO(X1Σ+) + C(3P) reactive collision were investigated using the quasi-classical trajectory (QCT) method. The reaction cross sections and rate coefficients obtained from QCT calculations are in good agreement with available theoretical and experimental data reported in the literature. Rate coefficient calculations indicate that for O + C2 collisions, the results for the reactive channel are significantly higher than those for the inelastic channel across a wide temperature range of 1000–20 000 K. Finally, to reduce computational demands, we also established an NN-based model to predict cross section by combining QCT with NNs. The developed model accurately reproduces the original QCT results.
Characteristic parameters and patterns of buoyancy-driven currents in inclined tunnels with a closed end
Authors: Du Tao , Wang Yu , Shao Hongrui , Han Jiabo , Mao Zerui , Liu Zengyu , Song Xing
Published: February 2025

Inclined narrow spaces with a closed end, such as inclined shafts and tunnels under construction, are common in modern society. This study presents a series of brine-water experiments examining buoyancy-driven flow in such inclined corridors or tunnels. In the experiments, once buoyant fluid is released into the tunnel, the buoyancy-driven outflow advances forward at an approximately constant velocity, which is mainly determined by the buoyancy flux. Dye-tracing observations reveal that, in addition to the outflow layer, buoyancy drives an inflow layer and creates an interior recirculating zone between these two layers. Velocity and reduced gravity exhibit an approximately linear variation across the tunnel, with slightly steeper gradients in the outflow and inflow currents. The thickness of the recirculating zone is minimally affected by source parameters but increases with the tunnel inclination angle. This recirculating flow results in contaminant accumulation in the center of the tunnel, with gradual dilution occurring due to ongoing turbulent exchange with inflow and outflow layers. Notably, contaminant dilution is enhanced as the tunnel inclination angle increases. The findings provide important insights into smoke movement and the timescale required to remove pollutants, such as gaseous contaminants and airborne aerosols, in such scenarios.
Wildfire in rainforest margins is associated with variation in mammal diversity and habitat use
Authors: Bird Rhiannon R. , Zsoldos Rebeka R. , Jimenez Sandoval Martha V. , Watson Shania J. , Smith Annabel L.
Published: February 2025

Context Rainforests typically evolved without the influence of fire or with only low-intensity fires, making them vulnerable to contemporary increases in fire frequency and intensity. Rainforest-associated species are predicted to be less adaptable than generalist species, but little is known about how fire in rainforest margins affects their habitat use and behaviour. Aims We investigated how mammal community composition, diversity, probability of habitat use and probability of movement were affected by wildfires that occurred in rainforest margins in South East Queensland, Australia, in 2019–20. Methods We deployed camera traps at 23 sites spanning the following three fire-habitat categories: unburnt rainforest (UR), burnt rainforest (BR) and surrounding burnt sclerophyll forest (BS), and used passive detection to analyse habitat use and behaviour. Key results Fire-habitat category had little influence on community composition. Species diversity was highest in unburnt rainforest compared with burnt rainforest and surrounding burnt sclerophyll forest. The probability of habitat use was highest in unburnt rainforest for both the long-nosed bandicoot (Perameles nasuta, estimated mean probability (95% CI): UR = 57.1% (22.98, 85.6), BR = 0%, BS = 0%) and the fawn-footed melomys (Melomys cervinipes: UR = 100%, BR = 87.5% (46.3, 98.3), BS = 50% (20.0, 80.0)). Probability of movement for the bush rat (Rattus fuscipes) increased with increasing elevation in burnt sclerophyll and was unaffected by elevation in unburnt and burnt rainforest. Conclusions Rainforest margins that experienced wildfire had reduced species diversity, most likely owing to a reduction in habitat use by rainforest-associated species. Movement patterns of mammal species were complex and not consistently related to recent fire history. Implications Rainforest margins and associated species are likely to be negatively affected by increasing wildfire intensity and frequency. In addition to urgent climate-change mitigation, land management that prevents wildfire incursion is likely to benefit rainforest communities in future.
Photoreceptor-induced LHL4 protects the photosystem II monomer in
Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Dannay Marie , Bertin Chloé , Cavallari Eva , Albanese Pascal , Tolleter Dimitri , Giustini Cécile , Menneteau Mathilde , Brugière Sabine , Couté Yohann , Finazzi Giovanni , Demarsy Emilie , Ulm Roman , Allorent Guillaume
Published: February 2025

Photosynthesis, the fundamental process using light energy to convert carbon dioxide to organic matter, is vital for life on Earth. It relies on capturing light through light-harvesting complexes (LHC) in photosystem I (PSI) and PSII and on the conversion of light energy into chemical energy. Composition and organization of PSI and PSII core complexes are well conserved across evolution. PSII is particularly sensitive to photodamage but benefits from a large diversity of photoprotective mechanisms, finely tuned to handle the dynamic and ever-changing light conditions. Light Harvesting Complex protein family members (LHC and LHC-like families) have acquired a dual function during evolution. Members of the LHC antenna complexes of PS capture light energy, whereas others dissipate excess energy that cannot be harnessed for photosynthesis. This process mainly occurs through nonphotochemical quenching (NPQ). In this work, we focus on the Light Harvesting complex-Like 4 (LHL4) protein, a LHC-like protein induced by ultraviolet-B (UV-B) and blue light through UV Resistance locus 8 (UVR8) and phototropin photoreceptor-activated signaling pathways in the model green microalgae
Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
. We demonstrate that alongside established NPQ effectors, LHL4 plays a key role in photoprotection, preventing singlet oxygen accumulation in PSII and promoting cell survival upon light stress. LHL4 protective function is distinct from that of NPQ-related proteins, as LHL4 specifically and uniquely binds to the transient monomeric form of the core PSII complex, safeguarding its integrity. LHL4 characterization expands our understanding of the interplay between light harvesting and photoprotection mechanisms upon light stress in photosynthetic microalgae.
Identification of a protective antigen reveals the trade-off between iron acquisition and antigen exposure in a global fungal pathogen
Authors: Li Yeqi , Pham Tuyetnhu , Hipsher Kenton , Lee Christopher W. J. , Jiao Jie , Penninger Josef M. , Kronstad James W. , Fan Yumeng , Zhao Youbao , Ambati Suresh , Meagher Richard B. , Xie Xiaofeng , Lin Xiaorong
Published: February 2025

Systemic infections caused by
Cryptococcus
claim over 161,000 lives annually, with global mortality rate close to 70% despite antifungal therapies. Currently, no vaccine is available. To develop an effective multivalent vaccine against this free-living opportunistic eukaryotic pathogen, it is critical to identify protective antigens. We previously discovered
ZNF2
oe
strains elicit protective host immune responses and increase the abundance of antigens present in the capsule, which is required for its immunoprotection. Capsule is a defining feature of
Cryptococcus
species and composed of polysaccharides and mannoproteins. Here, we found increased levels of exposed mannoproteins in
ZNF2
oe
cells. As mannoproteins are the primary components recognized by anticryptococcal cell-mediated immune responses and few have been characterized, we systemically screened all 49 predicted GPI-mannoproteins in
Cryptococcus neoformans
for enhanced host recognition. We identified those highly present in
ZNF2
oe
cells and found Cig1 to be a protective antigen against cryptococcosis either as a recombinant protein vaccine or an mRNA vaccine. Cig1 is induced by iron limitation and is highly expressed by this fungus in infected mice and in patients with cryptococcal meningitis. Remarkably, iron restriction by the host induces cryptococcal cells to express iron-uptake proteins including Cig1, which act as cryptococcal antigens and in turn enhance host detection. Our results highlight an arms race between the pathogen and the host centered on iron competition, and the trade-off between cryptococcal iron acquisition and antigen exposure. These findings demonstrate the potential of leveraging this host–pathogen interaction for vaccine development.
Hidden complexity of α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor desensitization revealed by MD simulations and Markov state modeling
Authors: Avstrikova Mariia , Milán Rodríguez Paula , Burke Sean M. , Hibbs Ryan E. , Changeux Jean-Pierre , Cecchini Marco
Published: February 2025

The α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor is a pentameric ligand-gated ion channel that plays an important role in neuronal signaling throughout the nervous system. Its implication in neurological disorders and inflammation has spurred the development of numerous compounds that enhance channel activation. However, the therapeutic potential of these compounds has been limited by the characteristically fast desensitization of the α7 receptor. Using recent high-resolution structures from cryo-EM, and all-atom molecular dynamic simulations augmented by Markov state modeling, here we explore the mechanism of α7 receptor desensitization and its implication on allosteric modulation. The results provide a precise characterization of the desensitization gate and illuminate the mechanism of ion-pore opening/closing with an agonist bound. In addition, the simulations reveal the existence of a short-lived, open-channel intermediate between the activated and desensitized states that rationalizes the paradoxical pharmacology of the L247T mutant and may be relevant to type-II allosteric modulation. This analysis provides an interpretation of the signal transduction mechanism and its regulation in α7 receptors.