bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plasminogen Activation System in Human Milk
Authors: Heegaard Christian W. , Larsen Lotte B. , Rasmussen Lone K. , Højberg Karen‐Elise , Petersen Torben E. , Andreasen Peter A.
Published: February 2024

Background

Plasmin is the major endogenous protease present in milk. The level of plasmin activity is controlled by the availability of the precursor plasminogen and by the levels of plasminogen activators and inhibitors. Recently, a differential distribution of tissue‐type plasminogen activator (t‐PA) and urokinase‐type plasminogen activator (u‐PA) has been demonstrated in bovine milk. To assess whether this distribution pattern is a general feature, the occurrence of components of the plasminogen activation system in different fractions of human milk was investigated.

Methods

Milk samples were separated into the following fractions; milk fat, skim milk, and milk cells by centrifugation. The different fractions were detected for the presence of plasminogen and plasminogen activators by immunoblotting and zymography. The distribution of t‐PA and u‐PA was investigated by ligand binding analysis. t‐PA‐catalyzed plasminogen activation was examined by a coupled chromogenic assay.

Results

A differential distribution of plasminogen, t‐PA, and u‐PA was found. Casein micelles were found to exhibit t‐PA and plasminogen binding activity, whereas the u‐PA receptor was identified as the u‐PA binding component in the cell fraction. Furthermore, human casein enhanced t‐PA‐catalyzed plasminogen activation, comparable to the enhancing effect obtained with fibrinogen fragments.

Conclusion

The finding of a differential distribution of u‐PA and t‐PA in milk suggests that the two activators may have different physiological functions, which involve protection against invading microorganisms and maintenance of patency and fluidity in the ducts of mammary gland, respectively.
Nutrient Accretion in Preterm Infants Fed Formula with Different Protein:Energy Ratios
Authors: Fairey Ann K. , Butte Nancy F. , Mehta Nitesh , Thotathuchery Mary , Schanler Richard J. , Heird William C.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Although standard formulas for preterm infants promote intrauterine rates of weight gain, fat deposition in preterm infants fed these formulas has been reported to be considerably higher than that in the fetus. We hypothesized that a preterm infant formula with a higher protein:energy (P:E) ratio would promote accretion rates of fat, fat‐free mass, and minerals closer to those of the fetus.

Methods:

As part of a larger study to determine whether accretion rates of fat and fat‐free mass closer to those of the fetus can be achieved with a higher P:E ratio, we present a descriptive analysis of 72‐h nutrient balance studies performed on a subset (n = 15/30) of the infants randomly assigned to be fed formula with a P:E ratio of either 3.2 g/100 kcal or 2.6 g/100 kcal.

Results:

Despite the higher intake and net absorption of nitrogen by infants fed the higher P:E formula, there was no statistically significant difference in net nitrogen retention between groups. There also were no statistically significant differences between groups in digestible energy, metabolizable energy, energy expenditure, or energy storage. Thus, partitioning of stored energy as protein and fat did not differ between groups. The retention of calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, copper, and zinc also did not differ between groups, and nitrogen intake did not affect mineral retention.

Conclusions:

In this study, formula for preterm infants with a P:E ratio of 3.2 g/100 kcal vs. 2.6 g/100 kcal provided no apparent benefit in terms of the proportion of fat to lean tissue accretion as determined from nutrient balance data.
The Effect of Zinc‐Supplemented Bread Consumption on School Children with Asymptomatic Zinc Deficiency
Authors: Kiliç İlknur , Özalp İmran , Coŝkun Turgay , Tokatli Ayşeül , Emre Serap , Saldamli İlbilge , Köksel Hamit , O¨zboy Ozen
Published: February 2024

Background:

Zinc deficiency has been seen in developing countries in which grain‐based vegetable protein is consumed more often than animal protein. This study was done to emphasize the importance of zinc‐fortified foods and to investigate bioavailability of zinc in zinc‐fortified bread.

Methods:

Serum zinc concentrations in healthy 7‐ to 11‐year‐old school children were determined. In 24 of 101 children serum zinc concentrations were below 65μg/dl. These 24 children with asymptomatic zinc deficiency were divided into two equal groups. The 12 children with low serum zinc concentrations received the zinc‐fortified bread providing 2 mg/kg/day elemental zinc acetate for 90 days (zinc‐supplemented group), whereas the other 12 children received the same quality bread with no zinc fortification (control group).

Results:

By the end of the period, the zinc‐supplemented group had significantly higher serum and leukocyte zinc concentrations (p < 0.01) and the weight, serum albumin levels, and alkaline phosphatase increased (p< 0.01). Immune functions improved, evidenced by conversion of delayed hypersensitivity skin reactions. Zinc‐fortified bread (2 mg/kg/day) caused no side effects or manifestations of zinc toxicity.

Conclusions:

The results indicate that the bioavailability of zinc in the bread is satisfactory. The use of zinc‐fortified bread was found to be an economical and readily accessible method to eliminate zinc deficiency and to prevent further occurrence.
Persistent Hepatitis G Virus Infection After Neonatal Transfusion
Authors: Woelfle Joachim , Berg Thomas , Keller Klaus M. , Schreier Eckhard , Lentze Michael J.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Recently two Flaviviridae‐like viruses have been discovered and named GB virus C and hepatitis G virus. Molecular characterization showed them to be different subtypes of the same virus. An association with posttransfusion hepatitis and with sporadic and fulminant hepatitis was reported, but most infected people remain asymptomatic. Data concerning hepatitis G virus infection in infants and children have not been reported to date. The prevalence of hepatitis G virus infection in children after transfusion of blood products in the neonatal period was studied.

Methods:

Serum samples from 251 children, who had received blood products in the first 4 weeks of life and who had been reexamined as part of another study at a mean interval of 37 months (range, 10‐70) after last transfusion, were analyzed for hepatitis G virus infection. Follow‐up examinations were performed in 14 of 19 hepatitis G virus‐positive children 12 to 17 years after the last transfusion. Presence of hepatitis G virus RNA in serum was determined by a reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction assay with nested primers from the helicase region of the hepatitis G virus. To prove specificity of the hepatitis G virus, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction assay and compare follow‐ups with initial sequences, direct sequencing of the NS3 and NS5 regions of the hepatitis G virus was performed.

Results:

Hepatitis G virus RNA was detected in 19 of 251 patients (7.6%); sequence analysis showed the isolates to be of hepatitis G virus type. None of the patients with hepatitis G virus infection had evidence of liver disease, although 3 patients were coinfected with hepatitis C virus. Four of 14 patients who were reinvestigated after a mean of 15 years showed persistent hepatitis G virus infection. Each of the 4 children was healthy. In none were clinical signs of liver disease observed; liver function test results were within the normal range.

Conclusions:

Children receiving blood transfusions in the neonatal period are at increased risk of hepatitis G virus infection with a high rate of chronic infection. However, as in the findings in several studies of adult transfusion recipients, in the current results, no association between hepatitis G virus infection and clinical or biochemical signs of hepatitis or extrahepatic disease could be seen.
Proabsorptive Effects of Modified Tapioca Starch as an Additive of Oral Rehydration Solutions
Authors: Wapnir Raul A. , Wingertzahn Mark A. , Moyse Jeffrey , Teichberg Saul
Published: February 2024

Background:

Partially hydrolyzed starches from staple cereals, obtained by heat or by enzymatic treatment, are often used in the formulation of homemade or extemporaneously used oral rehydration solutions used in developing countries. Conflicting or anecdotal results obtained thus far could be clarified with a standardized preparation tested under well‐controlled laboratory conditions.

Methods:

A modified commercial tapioca starch was tested. Textra (National Starch and Chemical Co. Bridgewater, NJ, U.S.A.) added at 0, 5 or 10 g/l to an oral rehydration solution with 90 mM sodium and 111 mM glucose, in 30 rats malnourished by a protein‐deficient diet for 3 weeks and in 26 well‐fed control animals, using a one‐pass jejunal perfusion.

Results:

In protein‐deficient rats, Textra stimulated sodium absorption at 5 and 10 g/l (mean ± SEM); 0 g/l Textra: 160 ± 13 nmol/min × cm; 5 g/l Textra: 406 ± 31 (p < 0.0001); and 10 g/l Textra 230 ± 27 (p < 0.02). Potassium absorption was comparably increased. Textra also improved net water absorption and the water influx:efflux ratio. Glucose absorption was increased only at 10 g/l Textra. In control rats, Textra improved sodium and net water absorption at 5 g/l, but not at 10 g/l Textra; but the influx:efflux ratio and potassium absorption were unaltered.

Conclusions:

These data, obtained in normal and protein‐deficient rats, support the view that modified starch is a potentially useful, energy‐rich additive for oral rehydration solution, which does not introduce an osmotic penalty.
Intraduodenal Lipase Activity in Celiac Disease Assessed by Means of 13C Mixed‐Triglyceride Breath Test
Authors: Perri Francesco , Pastore Maria , Festa Virginia , Clemente Rocco , Quitadamo Michele , D'Altilia Mario R. , Niro Grazia , Paolucci Paolo , Andriulli Angelo
Published: February 2024

Background:

In patients with celiac disease, the occurrence of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency has been related to an impairment of the gut‐mediated stimulatory effect of the meal on the pancreas. The purpose of this study was to assess the intraduodenal lipase activity in patients with celiac disease by means of the 13C mixed‐triglyceride breath test and to monitor pancreatic function after the institution of a gluten‐free diet.

Methods:

Seventeen untreated patients with celiac disease (mean age, 17.4 ± 10.5 years) were studied. After an overnight fast, patients were given a standard test meal consisting of 100 g of white bread and 0.25 g of butter per kilogram of body weight, to which 16 mg di‐stearyl‐13C‐octanoyl‐glyceride (mixed triglyceride) had been added. Breath samples were taken twice at baseline and at 30‐minute intervals for 6 hours after the meal. 13C enrichment in breath was determined by means of Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometer (IRMS) (ANCANT; Europa Scientific, Crewe, UK). Results were expressed as the maximum percentage of 13C recovery per hour at any time, the time to reach peak excretion of 13C, and the percentage of 13C cumulative dose over 6 hours.

Results:

Mixed‐triglyceride breath test results were pathologic in three patients and at the lower limit of the normal range in another patient. In the remaining 13 patients, the results were within normal values. At the 6‐ and 12‐month follow‐ups, all patients showed normal intraduodenal lipase activity.

Conclusions:

In approximately 24% of patients with celiac disease, the intraduodenal pancreatic lipolytic activity is impaired. The mixed‐triglyceride breath test could be used to assess fat maldigestion and to monitor the need for enzyme replacement therapy in such patients.
Unmasking the pivotal role of ad–target ethnic congruence in driving consumers' response to fear appeals
Authors: Talebi Arash , Mukherjee Sourjo , Das Gopal
Published: February 2024

Fear appeals are persuasive messages that scare consumers into compliance with the appeals' recommendation by highlighting a personally relevant threat. Several factors, including personality traits and message features, can influence the effectiveness of fear appeals. This article proposes an additional element that contributes to the persuasiveness of fear appeals: ethnic congruence between the fear appeal and the target audience. Specifically, this research examines the interplay of high fear arousal appeals and ad–target congruence on message persuasiveness. We operationalize congruence by ethnicity match (vs. mismatch). A series of three experiments and a follow‐up study reveal that while high fear arousal appeals are more persuasive than low‐arousal appeals in general, their effectiveness is accentuated when the target audience feels congruent with the elements of the appeal. We argue that when encountering fear appeals, consumers' perceived ethnic congruence with the elements of the advertisement (e.g., ad character–target ethnic similarity) affects whether they identify with the ad and thus influences their perceived vulnerability to the publicized threat. This, in turn, influences the level of the induced emotion (i.e., fear), which subsequently drives persuasiveness. We document this effect using both self‐reported and behavioral measures. We also rule out an alternative account based on appraisal‐tendency theory, which predicts that the uncertainty dimension characterizing the emotions—for example, fear (anger) is associated with high (low) uncertainty—explains the results. The findings highlight the importance of representing diverse characters in marketing and public policy campaigns relying on fear appeals.
Model Credibility
Authors: Courcelles Eulalie , Horner Marc , Afshari Payman , Kulesza Alexander , Curreli Cristina , Vaghi Cristina , Morales-Orcajo Enrique , Pappalardo Francesco , Maquer Ghislain , Russo Giulia , Geris Liesbet , Viceconti Marco , Neidlin Michael , Favre Philippe , Lesage Raphaëlle , Kreuzer Steve , Carbone Vincenzo
Published: February 2024

The need for a framework to justify that a model has sufficient credibility to be used as a basis for internal or external (typically regulatory) decision-making is a primary concern when using modelling and simulation (M&S) in healthcare. This chapter reviews published standards on verification, validation, and uncertainty quantification (VVUQ) as well as regulatory guidance that can be used to establish model credibility in this context, providing a potential starting point for a globally harmonised model credibility framework.
Promoting Social Inclusion and Mutual Understanding: Intertwined Efforts at Local, National and International Level
Authors: Agrusti Gabriella , Caramelo João , Marra Andrea Ciasca
Published: February 2024

This chapter considers the European framework of policies for inclusion, illustrating how those are translated into practices a national and local level. It offers a rich and yet necessarily partial appreciation of some of the most highly respect projects funded by the Erasmus+ programme. They read as success stories and a possible path for further developments. Finally, the point of view of local administrators and educators on the possible impact of the policy and resulting project initiatives is presented, proposing a snapshot of lessons learned in the eyes of stakeholders.
Chronic otorrhea and osteomyelitis of the external auditory canal by Achromobacter xylosoxidans: an uncommon diagnosis
Authors: Grau-van Laak Coloma , Ruiz-García Carmen , Lassaletta Luis , Morales-Puebla J. Manuel
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Achromobacter xylosoxidans is an emerging pathogen mainly associated with resistant nosocomial infections. This bacteria had been isolated in the ear together with other pathogens in cultures from patients with chronic otitis media, but it had never been reported as a cause of osteomyelitis of the external auditory canal.

Case presentation

We present a unique case of a healthy 81-year-old woman who presented with left chronic otorrhea refractory to topical and oral antibiotic treatment. Otomicroscopy revealed an erythematous and exudative external auditory canal (EAC) with scant otorrhea. The tympanic membrane was intact, but an area of bone remodeling with a small cavity anterior and inferior to the bony tympanic frame was observed. Otic culture isolated multi-drug-resistant A. xylosoxidans, only sensitive to meropenem and cotrimoxazole. Temporal bone computed tomography showed an excavation of the floor of the EAC compatible with osteomyelitis. Targeted antibiotherapy for 12 weeks was conducted, with subsequent resolution of symptoms and no progression of the bone erosion.

Conclusions

Atypical pathogens such as A. xylosoxidans can be the cause of chronic otitis externa. Early diagnosis and specific antibiotherapy can prevent the development of further complications, such as osteomyelitis. In these cases, otic cultures play an essential role to identify the causal germ. This is the first case of EAC osteomyelitis due to A. xylosoxidans reported to date.
Gender Incongruence and Autistic Traits: Cerebral and Behavioral Underpinnings
Authors: Khorashad Behzad S. , Wang Yanlu , Holmberg Mats , Dhejne Cecilia , Savic Ivanka
Published: February 2024

Gender dysphoria and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) co-occur at high rates. Yet, it is unknown whether gender dysphoria and ASD are associated with common or distinct neurobiological correlates or how they relate to experiences of gender-related body incongruence. Using the Social Responsiveness Scale, we assessed autistic traits in 99 transgender and 99 cisgender individuals and investigated their associations with gender-related body incongruence, measured via a visually based “Body Morph” test, and with cortical thickness in the brain. Autistic traits were significantly higher among transgender individuals, and those with higher autistic traits had higher body incongruence scoring. Among transgender individuals, higher autistic traits were linked with a thinner cortex bilaterally in the temporal pole and the superior and inferior temporal gyri. Autistic traits were only partly associated with cortical morphology patterns previously reported in transgender individuals; instead, they were primarily linked to temporal lobe areas mediating social cognition. While replicating the previous literature on the increased prevalence of autistic traits among transgender individuals, this study reports specific regions in the brains of transgender individuals where cortical thickness is associated with autistic traits.
The impact of diets containing Hermetia illucens meal on the growth, intestinal health, and microbiota of gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata)
Authors: Rimoldi Simona , Di Rosa Ambra Rita , Oteri Marianna , Chiofalo Biagina , Hasan Imam , Saroglia Marco , Terova Genciana
Published: February 2024

The present study investigated the effect of replacing fishmeal (FM) with insect meal of Hermetia illucens (HI) in the diet of Sparus aurata farmed inshore on growth, gut health, and microbiota composition. Two isolipidic (18% as fed) and isoproteic (42% as fed) diets were tested at the farm scale: a control diet without HI meal and an experimental diet with 11% HI meal replacing FM. At the end of the 25-week feeding trial, final body weight, specific growth rate, feed conversion rate, and hepatosomatic index were not affected by the diet. Gross morphology of the gastrointestinal tract and the liver was unchanged and showed no obvious signs of inflammation. High-throughput sequencing of 16S rRNA gene amplicons (MiSeq platform, Illumina) used to characterize the gut microbial community profile showed that Proteobacteria, Fusobacteria, and Firmicutes were the dominant phyla of the gut microbiota of gilthead seabream, regardless of diet. Dietary inclusion of HI meal altered the gut microbiota by significantly decreasing the abundance of Cetobacterium and increasing the relative abundance of the Oceanobacillus and Paenibacillus genera. Our results clearly indicate that the inclusion of HI meal as an alternative animal protein source positively affects the gut microbiota of seabream by increasing the abundance of beneficial genera, thereby improving gut health and maintaining growth performance of S. aurata from coastal farms.
Reduced Identification as a Mother Mediates the Effect of Prenatal Risk Factors on Mother and Infant Socio-Emotional Functioning
Authors: Cruwys Tegan , Corkin Natalie , Pasalich Dave S.
Published: February 2024

To support good outcomes for mothers and babies, it is essential to understand the prenatal factors that place both at risk, such as birth trauma, the mother’s attachment history, and unplanned motherhood. However, for health professionals supporting mothers, interventions must target malleable intervening factors. One of these, we propose, is social identification as a mother. Among women who had become mothers in past 12 months (N = 317), we assessed prenatal risk factors, social identification as a mother, and three socio-emotional outcomes: mother’s depression, infant temperament, and mother-infant attachment. Consistent with hypotheses, all prenatal risk factors negatively predicted social identification as a mother, which was itself positively associated with socio-emotional functioning. Model fit was excellent. Reduced social identification as a mother may be a key mechanism through which prenatal risk factors produce poorer outcomes for mothers and babies. Interventions may be enhanced by supporting the development of strong and positive social identities.
Strong Political Liberalism
Authors: Kugelberg Henrik D.
Published: February 2024

Public reason liberalism demands that political decisions be publicly justified to the citizens who are subjected to them. Much recent literature emphasises the differences between the two main interpretations of this requirement, justificatory and political liberalism. In this paper, I show that both views share structural democratic deficits. They fail to guarantee political autonomy, the expressive quality of law, and the justification to citizens, because they allow collective decisions made by incompletely theorised agreements. I argue that the result can only be avoided by changing public reason’s role in collective decision-making. Instead of incompletely theorised agreements, we should demand agreement both on the public reasons themselves and on the other premises that justify political decisions. In this way, it is always possible to point to a procedure-independent reason that justifies democratic decisions, and the reasoning of the state is public and contestable. Finally, I explain how this, in turn, implies that only political liberalism can be rescued—by accepting what I will call strong political liberalism. Modifying justificatory liberalism in the necessary way will inevitably open the door to an objectionable form of perfectionism.
Strigolactone roles in maize tolerance to low nitrogen involve shifts in acquisition and partitioning of protein, sulfur, and iron
Authors: Quaggiotti Silvia , Buzzicotti Leonardo , Koch Karen E. , Guan Jiahn Chou , Trevisan Sara , Varotto Serena , Ruperti Benedetto , Ravazzolo Laura
Published: February 2024

Background and Aims

Nitrogen (N) is an essential macronutrient that can limit plant development and crop yield through widespread physiological and molecular impacts. In maize, N-starvation enhances biosynthesis and exudation of strigolactones (SLs) in a process reversible by nitrate addition and consequent repression of genes for SL biosynthesis.

Methods

In the present study, a maize mutant deficient in SL biosynthesis (zmccd8) allowed an in-depth analysis of SL contributions under low N. Both hydroponic and field conditions were used to better characterize the response of the mutant to N availability.

Results

The severity of responses to N-limitation by the SL-deficient zmccd8 mutant extended from growth parameters to content of iron, sulfur, protein, and photosynthetic pigments, as well as pronounced impacts on expression of key genes, which could be crucial molecular target for the SL-mediated acclimatation to N shortage.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that SLs are critical for physiological acclimation to N deficiency by maize and identify central players in this action. Further contributions by iron and sulfur are implicated in the complex pathway underlying SL modulation of responses to N-deprivation, thus widening our knowledge on SL functioning and providing new hints on their potential use in agriculture.
Parabolicity of Invariant Surfaces
Authors: Del Prete Andrea , Gimeno i Garcia Vicent
Published: February 2024

We present a clear and practical way to characterize the parabolicity of a complete immersed surface that is invariant with respect to a Killing vector field of the ambient space.
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder in School-age Children: A Nationwide Prospective Birth Cohort Study
Authors: Christoffersen Mogens Nygaard , Thorup Anne A. E.
Published: February 2024

Traumatic childhood events are some of the few identifiable and to some extent preventable causes of psychiatric illness. Children exposed to severely stressful events may react with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and this may impact their level of function in daily life, their future development and mental health. The traumatic stress model suggests that traumatic stress in the family, community violence, and other traumas are regarded as additive environmental factors that can outweigh protective compensatory factors and thus interact with individual vulnerabilities. This study is based on prospective panel data including the whole population of children born in Denmark from 1984 to 1994, who are followed from age 7 to age 18 (N = 679,000) in the window between 2001 and 2012. Risk factors for first-time diagnose with PTSD are analyzed by the discrete time log-odd model. We found a lifetime prevalence of 2.3% PTSD in school-age children (n = 15,636). In accordance with the model, indicators of traumatic stress in the family, family disintegration, community violence, and individual vulnerabilities predicted later diagnose with PTSD. Individual neurodevelopmental disorder – especially autism (adjusted Odds Ratio (OR 7.1) and ADHD (OR 10.7) – were predicative of PTSD. The results cooperated the traumatic stress model. Some results were inconsistent with the traumatic stress model e.g., parental substance abuse were associated with less than expected PTSD in school-age children when adjusted for other risk factors. This indicates that PTSD may be underestimated in these groups. PTSD diagnoses in administrative records underestimate the prevalence, systematically. Efforts to increase PTSD screening may allow for better management.
Loss of EIF4G2 mediates aggressiveness in distinct human endometrial cancer subpopulations with poor survival outcome in patients
Authors: Meril Sara , Muhlbauer Avni Maya , Lior Chen , Bahlsen Marcela , Olender Tsviya , Savidor Alon , Krausz Judit , Belhanes Peled Hila , Birisi Hila , David Nofar , Bialik Shani , Scherz-Shouval Ruth , Ben David Yehuda , Kimchi Adi
Published: February 2024

The non-canonical translation initiation factor EIF4G2 plays essential roles in cellular stress responses via translation of selective mRNA cohorts. Currently there is limited and conflicting information regarding its involvement in cancer development and progression. Here we assessed its role in endometrial cancer (EC), in a cohort of 280 EC patients across different types, grades, and stages, and found that low EIF4G2 expression highly correlated with poor overall- and recurrence-free survival in Grade 2 EC patients, monitored over a period of up to 12 years. To establish a causative connection between low EIF4G2 expression and cancer progression, we stably knocked-down EIF4G2 in two human EC cell lines in parallel. EIF4G2 depletion resulted in increased resistance to conventional therapies and increased the prevalence of molecular markers for aggressive cell subsets, altering their transcriptional and proteomic landscapes. Prominent among the proteins with decreased abundance were Kinesin-1 motor proteins, KIF5B and KLC1, 2, 3. Multiplexed imaging of the EC patient tumor cohort showed a correlation between decreased expression of the kinesin proteins, and poor survival in patients with tumors of certain grades and stages. These findings reveal potential novel biomarkers for Grade 2 EC with ramifications for patient stratification and therapeutic interventions.
Clinical implications of AR alterations in advanced prostate cancer: a multi-institutional collaboration
Authors: Zengin Zeynep B. , Henderson Nicholas C. , Park Joseph J. , Ali Alicia , Nguyen Charles , Hwang Clara , Barata Pedro C. , Bilen Mehmet A. , Graham Laura , Mo George , Kilari Deepak , Tripathi Abhishek , Labriola Matthew , Rothstein Shoshana , Garje Rohan , Koshkin Vadim S. , Patel Vaibhav G. , Schweizer Michael T. , Armstrong Andrew J. , McKay Rana R. , Alva Ajjai , Dorff Tanya
Published: February 2024

Background

AR gene alterations can develop in response to pressure of testosterone suppression and androgen receptor targeting agents (ARTA). Despite this, the relevance of these gene alterations in the context of ARTA treatment and clinical outcomes remains unclear.

Methods

Patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) who had undergone genomic testing and received ARTA treatment were identified in the Prostate Cancer Precision Medicine Multi-Institutional Collaborative Effort (PROMISE) database. Patients were stratified according to the timing of genomic testing relative to the first ARTA treatment (pre-/post-ARTA). Clinical outcomes such as time to progression, PSA response, and overall survival were compared based on alteration types.

Results

In total, 540 CRPC patients who received ARTA and had tissue-based (n = 321) and/or blood-based (n = 244) genomic sequencing were identified. Median age was 62 years (range 39−90) at the time of the diagnosis. Majority were White (72.2%) and had metastatic disease (92.6%) at the time of the first ARTA treatment. Pre-ARTA genomic testing was available in 24.8% of the patients, and AR mutations and amplifications were observed in 8.2% and 13.1% of the patients, respectively. Further, time to progression was longer in patients with AR amplifications (25.7 months) compared to those without an AR alteration (9.6 months; p = 0.03). In the post-ARTA group (n = 406), AR mutations and AR amplifications were observed in 18.5% and 35.7% of the patients, respectively. The most common mutation in post-ARTA group was L702H (9.9%).

Conclusion

In this real-world clinicogenomics database-driven study we explored the development of AR alterations and their association with ARTA treatment outcomes. Our study showed that AR amplifications are associated with longer time to progression on first ARTA treatment. Further prospective studies are needed to optimize therapeutic strategies for patients with AR alterations.
Robotic assisted orbital surgery for resection of advanced periocular tumours – a case series report on the feasibility, safety and outcome
Authors: Malik Mohsan , Daniel Claire , Faulkner Jack , Uddin Jimmy , Arora Asit , Jeannon Jean-Pierre
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Orbital surgery benefits from well-designed instrumentation that offers gentle tissue manipulation, high manoeuvrability and control. Nevertheless, in confined spaces, tissue manipulation must be accomplished with exceptionally high accuracy and precision. This is where robotic surgery offers an advantage. We aimed to evaluate a robotic-assisted surgical system’s feasibility, safety and outcome in assisting tumour clearance.

Patients and methods

A case series of patients with advanced periocular tumours undergoing robotic-assisted globe-sparing resection was performed using the DaVinci XI system (Intuitive Surgical, Inc). Institutional ethics and multidisciplinary approval were sought in all cases.

Results

Four patients with advanced periocular tumours underwent robotic-assisted orbital surgery at a mean age of 63 years (range 42–86). Two patients were diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma, and two had basal cell carcinoma. One patient was found to have positive lymph nodes at the time of surgery and underwent simultaneous parotidectomy and lymph node clearance. Clear resection of the primary tumour was achieved in all patients; three patients underwent further resection due to narrow margins prior to reconstruction. Patients were follow-up for at least one year, and three remained disease-free. One patient with pre-existing extra-orbital disease developed metastatic disease four months post-op. All patients preserved vision peri-operatively, with no complaints of diplopia. Moderate ocular surface disease was noted in two patients.

Conclusion

Our series highlights the potential advantage of three-dimensional optics, multi-directional instrumentation and motion scaling technology to achieve globe-sparing tumour resection in advanced periocular tumours. However, further robotic instrumentation development is required for orbital surgery.
Identifying CTH and MAP1LC3B as ferroptosis biomarkers for prognostic indication in gastric cancer decoding
Authors: Qu Haishun , Liang Yunxiao , Guo Quan , Lu Ling , Yang Yanwei , Xu Weicheng , Zhang Yitian , Qin Yijue
Published: February 2024

Gastric cancer (GC), known for its high incidence and poor prognosis, urgently necessitates the identification of reliable prognostic biomarkers to enhance patient outcomes. We scrutinized data from 375 GC patients alongside 32 non-cancer controls, sourced from the TCGA database. A univariate Cox Proportional Hazards Model (COX) regression was employed to evaluate expressions of ferroptosis-related genes. This was followed by the application of Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) and multivariate COX regression for the development of prognostic models. The composition of immune cell subtypes was quantified utilizing CIBERSORT, with their distribution in GC versus control samples being comparatively analyzed. Furthermore, the correlation between the expressions of Cystathionine Gamma-Lyase (CTH) and Microtubule Associated Protein 1 Light Chain 3 Beta (MAP1LC3B) and the abundance of immune cell subtypes was explored. Our bioinformatics findings underwent validation through immunohistochemical analysis. Our prognostic models integrated CTH and MAP1LC3B. Survival analysis indicated that patients categorized as high-risk, as defined by the model, exhibited significantly lower survival rates compared to their low-risk counterparts. Notably, CTH expression inversely correlated with monocyte levels, while MAP1LC3B expression showed an inverse relationship with the abundance of M2 macrophages. Immunohistochemical validation corroborated lower expressions of CTH and MAP1LC3B in GC tissues relative to control samples, in concordance with our bioinformatics predictions. Our study suggests that the dysregulation of CTH, MAP1LC3B, and the accompanying monocyte-macrophage dynamics could be pivotal in the prognosis of GC. These elements present potential targets for prognostic assessment and therapeutic intervention.
Weight biases, body image and obesity risk knowledge in the groups of nursing students from Poland and Nigeria
Authors: Styk Wojciech , Samardakiewicz Marzena , Zmorzynski Szymon
Published: February 2024

Each population may have its own specific characteristics and cultural differences, which can affect perceptions of one's body, obesity, and the development of weight-related biases. The goal of our study is to (I) examine weight biases among incoming nursing students from two distinct cultures; (II) determine whether the cultural differences may be reflected in the levels of fat phobia, attitudes, and behaviors related to overweight and obesity; (III) adapt the Fat Phobia Scale and translate it into Polish. The study includes 119 Nigerian students and 120 Polish students. The following tools are used—ORK-10, ATOP, BAOP, BES and FPh. The results indicates that Nigerian students have significantly (p < 0.01) less knowledge about the risks associated with overweight and obesity. In contrast, they have a significantly (p < 0.01) more positive body image than the Polish students. Among Nigerian students, men have more positive body image in comparison to women (p = 0.01). An inverse relationship is observed in the group of Polish students, among whom women had a more positive body image than men did (p = 0.01). There are no statistically significant differences in fatphobic attitudes among the studied groups. It has been observed, that culture may be related to weight biases.
CRISPR/Cas13a-based single-nucleotide polymorphism detection for reliable determination of ABO blood group genotypes
Authors: Wei Hongjuan , Liu Liyan , Jiang Hanji , Chen Hong , Wang Yunxiang , Han Yongjun , Rong Zhen , Wang Shengqi
Published: February 2024

In this work, CRISPR/Cas13a-mediated genotyping for the ABO blood group by detecting SNPs between different alleles was proposed.
Design, synthesis and structure of a trinuclear copper(ii) complex having a Cu3OH core with regard to aspects of antiproliferative activity and magnetic properties
Authors: Mandal Naba Kr , Nandi Sudeshna , Benmansour Samia , Gómez-García Carlos J. , Acharya Krishnendu , Naskar Jnan Prakash
Published: February 2024

We report a novel triangular trinuclear copper(ii) complex with a central μ3-OH bridge, [(CuL)3(μ3-OH)(ClO4)2]·CH3OH·H2O (1), stabilised by the oxime-based Schiff base ligand, 3-(((5-bromothiophen-2-yl)methylene)hydrazineylidene)butan-2-one oxime (HL).
Preparation of nanocellulose-based nitrogen-doped carbon aerogel electrocatalysts through hydrothermal pretreatment for zinc–air batteries
Authors: Wei Yujia , Huang Yongfa , Pi Yike , Yang Wu , Wu Liping , Luo Yuling , Chen Zehong , Chen Yongkang , Shi Ge , Chi Xiao , Peng Xinwen
Published: February 2024

A cellulose-based nitrogen-doped carbon aerogel with abundant micro-mesopores for zinc–air batteries with high open-circuit voltage and long cycle stability was prepared by hydrothermal pretreatment and simple carbonization.
Using animal productivity in programming regional agricultural development
Authors: Zhichkin Kirill , Korshikova Elena , Zhichkina Lyudmila , Karnakova Victoria , Fomenko Natalya , Zoteev Stephan , Poplavskiy Sergey
Published: February 2024

The article discusses the issue of optimizing the process of programming the development of agriculture in terms of livestock breeding based on the potential productivity in dairy cattle breeding. As is known, a significant part of the milk obtained from cows is formed due to the genetic characteristics of the animals. Therefore, the fastest result in increasing productivity can be achieved through the intensification of targeted breeding work. This is precisely what the state needs to focus on when leaving programs for the development of the agro-industrial complex. Increasing the genetic potential of a region (territory) and its use should be the basis for drawing up targeted programs. The purpose of the study is to formulate the concept of the genetic potential of the region and determine the possibility of increasing it through commodity lending. Among the instruments of state support for agriculture, the use of commodity lending in livestock farming will make it possible to quickly disseminate favorable breeding achievements throughout the region. For example, in the Samara region, out of 98.8 thousand heads 29.6 thousand cows belong to the population with low genetic potential (29.9%). According to calculations, with minimal financial investments it is possible to completely replace an unproductive herd in the region.
Intensity and Direction of Dynamics of Soil Fertility Indicators in Landscape Farming
Authors: Kotlyarova E. , Kuzmina О. , Goncharova N. , Melentiev A. , Nartova E.
Published: February 2024

The purpose of the work is to study the dynamics of soil fertility indicators after the development of adaptive landscape farming systems in the most eroded region of the Belgorod region since 1981. Based on 40 years of research at the model object “Turnip Log”, it is shown that the direction and intensity of the soil-forming process is changing. Four stages are distinguished: at the first until 1993 the decrease in humus content and alkalization of the soil environment, characteristic of washed away carbonate soils, continues; at the second stage, the rate of humus loss drops 10 times; the third ten-year period is characterized by a significant increase in organic matter and its stabilization subsequently, which accompanied by a transition in pHsol. to the area of neutral values. The dynamics of mobile forms of macroelements and agronomically valuable cations Ca2+ and Mg2+ indicate the cultivation of soils in general. At the same time, it is emphasized that there are no universal elements in the agricultural system; Along with the creation of an ecological framework of protective plantings, it is necessary to comply with the principles of adaptive placement of agricultural crops and a deficit-free balance of humus and nutrients in crop rotations.
Study of Tomato Source Material for Breeding Highly Productive Hybrids
Authors: Kozlova Irina , Esaulova Lyubov , Garkusha Sergey
Published: February 2024

In world agriculture, the tomato plays a leading role due to its high nutritional properties, high yields, adaptive abilities and a wide range of uses in fresh, culinary and processing industries. The global tomato market volume is more than 160 million tons. In the ranking of countries, Russia is in 6th place in terms of area and 11th in terms of gross production of tomatoes. Unfortunately, at the moment, a significant part of tomato seed material is imported. The implementation of the import substitution program creates the need to develop domestic breeding and seed production of this crop. The purpose of these studies was to conduct a breeding assessment of parental tomato lines for productivity traits based on statistical analysis methods and to identify promising source material for further breeding work to develop highly productive hybrids. As a result of the research, three best combinations were identified in terms of productivity of hybrids: 2f2-16(8-2) x Veneta, 108t/20 x Victor and 2f216(8-2) x Victor, which have a positive effect of specific combining ability, have average and high positive effects of the general combining ability of both maternal and paternal lines. Two maternal lines 108t/20 and 3f-14 showed a positive general combining ability for early and total productivity and its components. therefore, these parents can be successfully used in future breeding programs.
Landslide hazard assessment in Yateras municipality, Cuba
Authors: Pospehov Georgui B. , Savón Yusmira
Published: February 2024

The main objective of this study in the Yateras municipality was the landslide hazard zonation (LHZ). The multi-criteria decision method used by Saaty (1980) was adopted, considering the factors; slope angle, elevation, distance to rivers, distance to the fault, average annual rainfall, lithology, soil depth and soil type. The weights of the factors were determined using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), determining that average annual rainfall, lithology and soil depth obtained the highest weights in the process, being 0.24, 0.19 and 0.16 respectively. Landslide susceptibility indices were determined based on a continuous numerical scale developed for this purpose. It was found that the high and medium hazard zones corresponded to the northeast and east of the municipality. These zones are mainly made up of rocks of the ophiolitic complex, very affected structurally, which are characterized by a high density of faults and a dense hydrological network, shallow soils with a predominance of brown soils with a clayey matrix.
Proposals for the adjustment of design solutions in the formation of a strategy for the effective operation of oil wells
Authors: Gabdrakhmanov Nurfayaz , Fayzullin Iskander , Almukhametova El'vira , Yusupova Lilia
Published: February 2024

The article considers the features of well pattern infilling as one of the effective ways to enhance oil recovery. A brief description of the field N is given. Analysis of how the well pattern infilling enabled to enhance oil recovery in the reservoir of this field. The influence of well placement density on oil recovery is analyzed. It is proposed to evaluate the degree of influence of each infill well on oil recovery. The performance of each infill well is considered in comparison with the performance of adjacent wells in the same production row or cell, i.e. with close parameters of productive reservoirs and the same type of development conditions.
Compacting the core of a commercial high-power lead-cooled fast reactor
Authors: Okunev Viacheslav Sergeevich
Published: February 2024

Two options for the layout of a fast reactor with lead coolant are being considered. The design of the fuel assemblies and core fuel rods is identical to the BREST-OD-300 reactor. One of the layouts is traditional with a flattened core. The other layout is the most compact. It has an elongated core and is characterized by an optimal ratio of core diameter to height in terms of minimal neutron leakage. The electric capacity of the first of them is about 2.9 GW, the second - 13.3 GW. The second layout is a high-temperature reactor. When operating at rated power, the maximum coolant temperature reaches 1631 K. The use of cermets fuel based on UN-PuN mononitride micrograins and uranium metal nanopowder, coolant based on lead thorium ores and tungsten fuel rod coatings made it possible to ensure the safety of reactors in emergency modes such as "anticipated transients without scram". A distinctive feature of the layouts is to reduce the danger of emergency modes when they are applied simultaneously. In all emergency modes, large reserves are maintained up to the maximum permissible temperatures of fuel, coolant and structural materials.
The role of monitoring production environment facilities to support microbiological safety and food quality in meat processing plants
Authors: Yushina Yuliya , Zaiko Elena , Anzhelika Makhova , Dagmara Bataeva , Maria Grudistova
Published: February 2024

The results of many studies prove the microbiota of the surfaces of the production environment can be a source of food contamination. Environmental monitoring allows to identify problem areas in the enterprise and take corrective actions to eliminate them. This work is conducted to the analysis of the microbiota of abiotic objects selected in the area of close proximity to food products at a pork processing plant by sequencing the 16S RNA gene. The phylum Proteobacteria (from 37.7 to 73.6%), Firmicutes (from 0.14 to 18.6%), Bacteroidota and Actinobacteriota were the dominant components of the microbial communities of the meat processing enterprise. Bacteria of the genus Pseudomonas were found in all samples, the number of readings of these bacteria ranged from 1.90% to 28.76% of the total number of readings. Bacteria of the genus Brochotrix were found in samples from 0.02% to 2.75%. The identification of this phylum indicates the potential presence of pathogenic microorganisms and spoilage microorganisms at production facilities, which can negatively affect the quality and safety of food products.