bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RANCANG BANGUN E-INVENTORY SPARE PART KAPAL BERBASIS CODEIGNITER PADA PT PELAYARAN NASIONAL SANDICO OCEAN LINE BATAM
Authors: Lindo Junius , Tukino Tukino
Published: October 2023

With the rapid advancement of information technology, computers have become highly useful devices for humans in various fields. In the context of companies, an inventory system is needed to ensure smooth operational activities. Inventory encompasses a complete list of items owned by an office, institution, factory, or company, and is used to carry out specific tasks. PT Pelayaran Nasional Sandico Ocean Line Batam is one company that still uses a manual or conventional inventory system to record ship spare parts inventory. Therefore, a web-based information system is proposed to replace the existing system. In the development of this website, the PHP programming language is used to create dynamic and interactive web pages. For the framework, Codeigniter is chosen based on the previously explained concepts. Codeigniter is selected as one of the best frameworks for building web applications because it provides various tools that aid in faster development, a stable structure, and ease of maintenance. The development of this Codeigniter-based website aims to assist developers in efficiently building web applications. By using Codeigniter, developers can easily handle complex PHP code, seamlessly integrate components, and achieve useful functionality with simple configuration.
Five-years post commercial approval monitoring of eucalyptus H421
Authors: Pinheiro Ana Cristina , dos Santos Anselmo Azevedo , Avisar Dror , Gonsalves José Mateus , Galan Maria Paula , Abramson Miron , Barimboim Noga , Abrahão Othon , Graça Rodrigo Neves , Drezza Thaís Regina , Silva William
Published: October 2023

Eucalyptus comprises the largest planted area of cultivated production forest in Brazil. Genetic modification of eucalyptus can provide additional characteristics for increasing productivity, protecting plant yield, and potentially altering fiber for various industrial uses. With this objective, a transgenic eucalyptus variety, event H421, received regulatory approval for commercial release after 6 years of approved risk assessment studies by the Brazilian National Technical Biosafety Commission (CTNBio) in 2015, becoming the first approved genetically modified (GM) eucalyptus in the world. GM event H421 enables increased plant biomass accumulation through overexpression of the Arabidopsis 1,4-β-endoglucanase Cel1, which remodels the xyloglucan–cellulose matrix of the cell wall during development to promote cell expansion and growth. As required, in that time, by the current normative from CTNBio, a post-commercial release monitoring plan for H421 was submitted, incorporating general surveillance for five consecutive years with the submission of annual reports. The monitoring plan was conducted on fields of H421 progenies, with conventional clones as comparators, cultivated in representative regions where eucalyptus is cultivated in the states of São Paulo, Bahia, and Maranhão, representing Southeast, Northeast, and Northern Brazil. Over the course of the five-year general surveillance monitoring plan for the approved GM eucalyptus H421, no adverse effect that could impact the biosafety of the commercially approved event was identified. Additionally, the GM eucalyptus exhibited behavior highly consistent with that of conventional commercial clones. Therefore, there was no need for an extra risk assessment study of a case-specific monitoring plan. The results show the importance of continuously updating the regulation norms of governmental agencies to align with scientific advances.
A novel fluorescent sensor for diammonium and metal ions based on a supramolecular charge-transfer complex of bis(aza-18-crown-6)-containing dienone
Authors: Gromov Sergey P. , Fomina Marina V. , Zdorovenko Ilia P. , Fakhrutdinov Artem N. , Ushakov Evgeny N.
Published: October 2023

A bis(aza-18-crown-6)-containing 2,5-di(benzylidene)cyclopentanone and a bis(ammoniopropyl) derivative of 1,2-di(4-pyridyl)ethylene in MeCN were found to form a supramolecular charge-transfer complex, which can act as an “off–on” fluorescent sensor for the Ca2+ and 1,12-dodecanediammonium ions. The molecular structure of this complex in solution was studied by density functional theory calculations.
Nano wear particles and the periprosthetic microenvironment in aseptic loosening induced osteolysis following joint arthroplasty
Authors: Xie Yu , Peng Yujie , Fu Guangtao , Jin Jiewen , Wang Shuai , Li Mengyuan , Zheng Qiujian , Lyu Feng-Juan , Deng Zhantao , Ma Yuanchen
Published: October 2023

Joint arthroplasty is an option for end-stage septic arthritis due to joint infection after effective control of infection. However, complications such as osteolysis and aseptic loosening can arise afterwards due to wear and tear caused by high joint activity after surgery, necessitating joint revision. Some studies on tissue pathology after prosthesis implantation have identified various cell populations involved in the process. However, these studies have often overlooked the complexity of the altered periprosthetic microenvironment, especially the role of nano wear particles in the etiology of osteolysis and aseptic loosening. To address this gap, we propose the concept of the “prosthetic microenvironment”. In this perspective, we first summarize the histological changes in the periprosthetic tissue from prosthetic implantation to aseptic loosening, then analyze the cellular components in the periprosthetic microenvironment post prosthetic implantation. We further elucidate the interactions among cells within periprosthetic tissues, and display the impact of wear particles on the disturbed periprosthetic microenvironments. Moreover, we explore the origins of disease states arising from imbalances in the homeostasis of the periprosthetic microenvironment. The aim of this review is to summarize the role of relevant factors in the microenvironment of the periprosthetic tissues, in an attempt to contribute to the development of innovative treatments to manage this common complication of joint replacement surgery.
Feasibility of cardiac MR thermometry at 0.55 T
Authors: Mooiweer Ronald , Rogers Charlotte , Vidya Shankar Rohini , Razavi Reza , Neji Radhouene , Roujol Sébastien
Published: October 2023

Radiofrequency catheter ablation is an established treatment strategy for ventricular tachycardia, but remains associated with a low success rate. MR guidance of ventricular tachycardia shows promises to improve the success rate of these procedures, especially due to its potential to provide real-time information on lesion formation using cardiac MR thermometry. Modern low field MRI scanners (<1 T) are of major interest for MR-guided ablations as the potential benefits include lower costs, increased patient access and device compatibility through reduced device-induced imaging artefacts and safety constraints. However, the feasibility of cardiac MR thermometry at low field remains unknown. In this study, we demonstrate the feasibility of cardiac MR thermometry at 0.55 T and characterized its in vivo stability (i.e., precision) using state-of-the-art techniques based on the proton resonance frequency shift method. Nine healthy volunteers were scanned using a cardiac MR thermometry protocol based on single-shot EPI imaging (3 slices in the left ventricle, 150 dynamics, TE = 41 ms). The reconstruction pipeline included image registration to align all the images, multi-baseline approach (look-up-table length = 30) to correct for respiration-induced phase variations, and temporal filtering to reduce noise in temperature maps. The stability of thermometry was defined as the pixel-wise standard deviation of temperature changes over time. Cardiac MR thermometry was successfully acquired in all subjects and the stability averaged across all subjects was 1.8 ± 1.0°C. Without multi-baseline correction, the overall stability was 2.8 ± 1.6°C. In conclusion, cardiac MR thermometry is feasible at 0.55 T and further studies on MR-guided catheter ablations at low field are warranted.
Predictive analytics study to determine undergraduate students at risk of dropout
Authors: Gonzalez-Nucamendi Andres , Noguez Julieta , Neri Luis , Robledo-Rella Víctor , García-Castelán Rosa María Guadalupe
Published: October 2023

In this this work, a study is presented with quantitative variables using machine learning tools to detect undergraduate students at risk of dropping out and the factors associated with this behavior. Clustering algorithms and classification methods were tested to determine the predictive power of several variables regarding the dropout phenomenon on an unbalanced database of 14,495 undergraduate students with a real dropout rate of 8.5% and a retention rate of 91.5%. The usual classification criterion that assigns individuals to a class if their probability of belonging to it is greater than 50% provided accuracies of 13.2% in the dropout prediction and 99.4% in the retention prediction. Among eight classifiers, Random Forest was selected and applied along with Threshold Probability, which allowed us to gradually increase the dropout precision to more than 50%, while maintaining retention and global precisions above 70%. Through this study, it was found that the main variables associated with student dropouts were their academic performance during the early weeks of the first semester, their average grade in the previous academic levels, the previous mathematics score, and the entrance exam score. Other important variables were the number of class hours being taken, student age, funding status of scholarships, English level, and the number of dropped subjects in the early weeks. Given the trade-off between dropout and retention precisions, our results can guide educational institutions to focus on the most appropriate academic support strategies to help students at real risk of dropping out.
The association between thyroid-stimulating hormone and thyroid nodules, goiter and thyroid antibody positivity
Authors: Li Shaohan , Guo Wenxing , Meng Qi , Zhu Mei , Wei Hongyan , Ji Fengying , Tan Long , Zhang Wanqi
Published: October 2023

Background

The relationship between normal thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels and thyroid disease in adults remains controversial. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between serum TSH levels, particularly those falling within the normal range, and thyroid diseases in Chinese adults, including thyroid nodules (TN), goiter (GR), and thyroid antibody positivity.

Materials and methods

This research was a cross-sectional study conducted in an adult population in Tianjin, China. Thyroid volume (Tvol) and TN were assessed using thyroid ultrasonography. Fasting venous blood and spot urine samples were collected to evaluate thyroid function and iodine status.

Results

A total of 2460 subjects participated in the survey. The prevalence of thyroid dysfunction was 9.76%, and abnormal TSH levels were found to potentially increase the risk of GR and thyroid antibody positivity in adults. A total of 2220 subjects with TSH within the normal reference range were included in the further study. In these patients, Tvol decreased as TSH levels increased, in both men and women (P < 0.0001). Low TSH levels (0.27–1.41 IU/mL) were identified as a risk factor for TN (odds ratio [OR], 1.46; 95% CI: 1.14-1.87) and GR (OR 5.90, 95% CI 2.27-15.3). Upon stratification by sex and age, the risk of TN was found to be higher in women and elderly individuals (≥60 years old), while the risk of GR was found to be higher in men and younger individuals (<60 years old). High TSH levels (2.55–4.2 IU/mL) were identified as a risk factor for thyroid antibody positivity (OR, 1.53; 95% CI: 1.11-2.10). Men and younger individuals with high TSH levels exhibited a higher risk of thyroid antibody positivity.

Conclusion

In adults with normal TSH levels, low TSH levels were associated with an increased risk of TN and GR, whereas high TSH levels were associated with thyroid antibody positivity. The research also suggests that adults whose TSH levels at upper or lower limits of the normal range should be reviewed regularly.
Lupus and recurrent pregnancy loss: the role of female sex hormones and B cells
Authors: Valeff Natalin Jimena , Ventimiglia Maria Silvia , Diao Lianghui , Jensen Federico
Published: October 2023

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a debilitating autoimmune disease characterized by uncontrolled activation of adaptive immunity, particularly B cells, which predominantly affects women in a 9 to 1 ratio compared to men. This stark sex disparity strongly suggests a role for female sex hormones in the disease’s onset and progression. Indeed, it is widely recognized that estradiol not only enhances the survival of autoreactive B cells but also stimulates the production of autoantibodies associated with systemic lupus erythematosus, such as anti-nuclear antibodies and anti-dsDNA antibodies. Clinical manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus typically emerge after puberty and persist throughout reproductive life. Furthermore, symptoms often exacerbate during the premenstrual period and pregnancy, as increased levels of estradiol can contribute to disease flares. Despite being fertile, women with lupus face a heightened risk of pregnancy-related complications, including pregnancy loss and stillbirth, which significantly surpass the rates observed in the healthy population. Therefore, this review aims to summarize and discuss the existing literature on the influence of female sex hormones on B-cell activation in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, with a particular emphasis on their impact on pregnancy loss.
Dissolved oxygen concentration inversion based on Himawari-8 data and deep learning: a case study of lake Taihu
Authors: Shi Kaifang , Lang Qi , Wang Peng , Yang Wenhao , Chen Guoxin , Yin Hang , Zhang Qian , Li Wei , Wang Haozhi
Published: October 2023

Dissolved Oxygen (DO) concentration is an essential water quality parameter widely used in water environments and pollution assessments, which indirectly reflects the pollution level and the occurrence of blue-green algae. With the advancement of satellite technology, the use of remote sensing techniques to estimate DO concentration has become a crucial means of water quality monitoring. In this study, we propose a novel model for DO concentration estimation in water bodies, termed Dissolved Oxygen Multimodal Deep Neural Network (DO-MDNN), which utilizes synchronous satellite remote sensing data for real-time DO concentration inversion. Using Lake Taihu as a case study, we validate the DO-MDNN model using Himawari-8 (H8) satellite imagery as input data and actual DO concentration in Lake Taihu as output data. The research results demonstrate that the DO-MDNN model exhibits high accuracy and stability in DO concentration inversion. For Lake Taihu, the performance metrics including adj_R2, RMSE, Pbias, and SMAPE are 0.77, 0.66 mg/L, −0.44%, and 5.36%, respectively. Compared to the average performance of other machine learning models, the adj_R2 shows an improvement of 6.40%, RMSE is reduced by 8.27%, and SMAPE is decreased by 12.1%. These findings highlight the operational feasibility of real-time DO concentration inversion using synchronous satellite data, providing a more efficient, economical, and accurate approach for real-time DO monitoring. This method holds significant practical value in enhancing the efficiency and precision of water environment monitoring.
Material identification and heavy metal characteristics of plastic packaging bags used in Chinese express delivery
Authors: Jiang Yinhua , Song Guanghan , Zhang Hui
Published: October 2023

With the rapid development of China’s express delivery services, environmental concerns have increased owing to the use of plastic packaging bags (PPBs) which have a heavy metal (HM) content due to the incorporation of scrap plastics in the production process. We sourced a variety of PPBs from different express delivery parcels, identified the materials in the samples using Fourier-transform infrared spectrometry, and conducted HM analysis using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The results demonstrated that the main material type in the PPBs was polyethylene. The results showed that the potential health concerns were posed by the four HMs (nickel [Ni], copper [Cu], zinc [Zn], and arsenic [As]) presented in the PPB samples. The mean concentrations of HMs in the PPBs were ranked as follows (presented in unit mg kg−1): Zn (120.42 ± 85.15)> Cu (45.21 ± 56.55) > lead [Pb] (6.43 ± 6.57) > Cr (6.03 ± 6.82) > Ni (2.13 ± 2.14) > As (0.19 ± 0.15) > mercury [Hg] (0.17 ± 0.71) > cadmium [Cd] (0.14 ± 0.20). HM content varied according to sample type, with a ranking order of Rm > Pm > Bm, corresponding to the degree of environmental and health risk. For Rm samples, high levels of low-toxicity HMs, such as Zn and Cu were detected, with respective maximum values of 365.9 and 184.2 mg kg−1; furthermore, the levels of high-toxicity HMs (i.e., Cd and Hg) exceeded the standard values set by the express delivery sector (0.5 mg kg−1). Thus, more attention should be paid to the effective management of PPBs for polyethylene-based Rm types, such as the limitation of Zn, Cu, Cd, and Hg. This study provides baseline data regarding HM-incorporating PPBs for stakeholders and is expected to support the formulation of relevant products for use in greener packaging policy and, thus, contributes to the re-assessment of China’s “plastic ban” policy.
Economic and financial instruments of forest management in the Czech Republic
Authors: Perunová Michaela , Zimmermannová Jarmila
Published: October 2023

The forest bioeconomy becomes a feature of a climate-neutral economic system, while effective financial support is crucial for sustainable forest management. The main goal of this paper is to explain the impact of economic and financial instruments on the development of the forestry sector in the Czech Republic in the period 2000–2020. For research objectives, the methods of literature review, data analysis, correlation analysis, and regression analysis were used. Several models were established and tested. This paper presents the forest land model (FOLM) and wood biomass production model (WBIOM). In the monitored period, there was an increase in forest land in hectares in the Czech Republic, which was positively influenced by environmental investments in biodiversity and negatively by subsidies from the Rural Development Programme and the price of European Union Allowance. Based on the FOLM model results, 100 million CZK (4.07 million EUR) of environmental investments in biodiversity would contribute to an increase of 228 hectares of forest land. Concerning wood biomass production in cubic meters, it was influenced positively by the whole mixture of economic and financial instruments, such as emission trading, environmental taxation, financial contributions for forest management, state financial obligations, and subsidies. Based on the WBIOM model results, an increase in the price of an emission allowance by 100 CZK Mg–1 (approx. 4 EUR Mg–1) would increase wood biomass production by approximately 934,614 cubic meters. Generally, the economic and financial instruments in the Czech Republic have an environmental impact and can influence the forest bioeconomy, at least in the long-term period. Concerning the complex influence of the emission trading on the forestry sector in the Czech Republic, it is ambiguous—in the case of forest land rather negative, and in the case of wood biomass production positive. Therefore, focusing on the policy recommendations, we should underline economic and financial instruments connected with positive motivation in the forestry sector, such as grant schemas, subsidies, and investments in biodiversity.
Incidental finding at methylation-specific multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MS-MLPA): how to proceed?
Authors: Manero-Azua Africa , Pereda Arrate , Llano-Rivas Isabel , Garin Intza , Perez de Nanclares Guiomar
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Since the advent of new generation sequencing, professionals are aware of the possibility of obtaining findings unrelated to the pathology under study. However, this possibility is usually forgotten in the case of studies aimed at a single gene or region. We report a case of a 16-month-old girl with clinical suspicion of Silver-Russell syndrome (SRS).

Methods: Following the international SRS consensus, methylation alterations and copy number variations (CNVs) at 11p15 region and maternal uniparental disomy of chromosome 7 were analysed and discarded by MS-MLPA.

Results: Unexpectedly, the 11p15 region MS-MLPA showed a decrease in the signal of a copy number reference probe. Deletions affecting a single probe are inconclusive. So, we faced the ethical dilemma of whether it was appropriate to confirm this alteration with independent techniques and to offer a diagnostic possibility that was in no way related to clinical suspicion. Fortunately, in this particular case, the informed consent had not been specific to a particular pathology but to any disorder associated with growth failure. Performed alternative studies allowed the final diagnosis of 22q deletion syndrome.

Conclusion: We demonstrate the importance of informing patients about the possibility of obtaining incidental findings in genetic techniques (not only in next generation sequencing) during pre-test genetic counselling consultations. In addition, we highlight the relevance of including in the informed consent the option of knowing these unexpected incidental findings as in some cases, this will help to elucidate the definitive diagnosis and provide the correct follow-up and treatment.
Sex- and gender-related differences in inflammatory bowel diseases
Authors: Blumenstein Irina , Sonnenberg Elena
Published: October 2023

This review provides an overview of the current data regarding sex- and gender-specific aspects in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases. A particular focus will be on disease course, medical and surgical treatment strategies, psychosocial differences, and special requirements during pregnancy and family planning. The most significant and clinically meaningful gender differences in IBD relate to psychosocial functioning. Although depression, fatigue, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and sexual dysfunction also occur in male IBD patients, women seem to be affected much more frequently and severely in these areas.
Case Report: A de novo NLRP3 variant resulting in autoinflammatory disease in a Chinese newborn
Authors: Xie Mingyu , Wan Jingjing , Zheng Xin , Zou Xian , Chen Wanting , Zhang Kanglin , Yuan Huiting , Zhang Zhenhong , Zeng Haisheng
Published: October 2023

Background

Cryopyrin-associated periodic syndromes (CAPS) have been considered autoinflammatory diseases resulting from NLRP3 gene mutations. In recent years, these conditions have been redefined as NLRP3-associated autoinflammatory diseases (NLRP3-AID). Our previous study highlighted a case of a Chinese individual carrying the de novo NLRP3 mutation.

Results

A female child carrying a de novo variant (c.1718T>G, p. L573W) in the NLRP3 gene was presented in this work. The patient manifested various symptoms, including recurrent fever, a rash resembling urticaria, arthritis, physical growth retardation, a notable prominence of the forehead, and a flat nose bridge. Additionally, inflammatory markers, like WBC count, PLT count, CRP, ESR, and IL-6 showed elevated levels. Additionally, we observed interstitial pulmonary disease in the patient, which is not frequently mentioned in previous studies. Notably, the proband did not present with any ocular, auditory, or neurological symptoms. After 12 weeks of subcutaneous canakinumab injection, there was a clear improvement in the patient’s clinical manifestations and inflammatory markers.

Conclusion

Our study contributes to broadening the clinical spectrum of established pathogenic variants of NLRP3 gene, which are related to NLRP3-AID.
Distinct defects in early innate and late adaptive immune responses typify impaired fracture healing in diet-induced obesity
Authors: Khajuria Deepak Kumar , Reider Irene , Kamal Fadia , Norbury Christopher C. , Elbarbary Reyad A.
Published: October 2023

Bone fractures, the most common musculoskeletal injuries, heal through three main phases: inflammatory, repair, and remodeling. Around 10% of fracture patients suffer from impaired healing that requires surgical intervention, a huge burden on the healthcare system. The rate of impaired healing increases with metabolic diseases such as obesity-associated hyperglycemia/type 2 diabetes (T2D), an increasing concern given the growing incidence of obesity/T2D. Immune cells play pivotal roles in fracture healing, and obesity/T2D is associated with defective immune-cell functions. However, there is a gap in knowledge regarding the stoichiometry of immune cells that populate the callus and how that population changes during different phases of healing. Here, we used complementary global and single-cell techniques to characterize the repertoire of immune cells in the fracture callus and to identify populations specifically enriched in the fracture callus relative to the unfractured bone or bone marrow. Our analyses identified two clear waves of immune-cell infiltration into the callus: the first wave occurs during the early inflammatory phase of fracture healing, while the second takes place during the late repair/early remodeling phase, which is consistent with previous publications. Comprehensive analysis of each wave revealed that innate immune cells were activated during the early inflammatory phase, but in later phases they returned to homeostatic numbers and activation levels. Of the innate immune cells, distinct subsets of activated dendritic cells were particularly enriched in the inflammatory healing hematoma. In contrast to innate cells, lymphocytes, including B and T cells, were enriched and activated in the callus primarily during the late repair phase. The Diet-Induced Obesity (DIO) mouse, an established model of obesity-associated hyperglycemia and insulin resistance, suffers from multiple healing defects. Our data demonstrate that DIO mice exhibit dysregulated innate immune responses during the inflammatory phase, and defects in all lymphocyte compartments during the late repair phase. Taken together, our data characterize, for the first time, immune populations that are enriched/activated in the callus during two distinct phases of fracture healing and identify defects in the healing-associated immune response in DIO mice, which will facilitate future development of immunomodulatory therapeutics for impaired fracture healing.
Systemic inflammation early after kidney transplantation is associated with long-term graft loss: a cohort study
Authors: Heldal Torbjørn F. , Åsberg Anders , Ueland Thor , Reisæter Anna V. , Pischke Søren E. , Mollnes Tom E. , Aukrust Pål , Reinholt Finn , Hartmann Anders , Heldal Kristian , Jenssen Trond G.
Published: October 2023

Background

Early graft loss following kidney transplantation is mainly a result of acute rejection or surgical complications, while long-term kidney allograft loss is more complex. We examined the association between systemic inflammation early after kidney transplantation and long-term graft loss, as well as correlations between systemic inflammation scores and inflammatory findings in biopsies 6 weeks and 1 year after kidney transplantation.

Methods

We measured 21 inflammatory biomarkers 10 weeks after transplantation in 699 patients who were transplanted between 2009 and 2012 at Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Norway. Low-grade inflammation was assessed with predefined inflammation scores based on specific biomarkers: one overall inflammation score and five pathway-specific scores. Surveillance or indication biopsies were performed in all patients 6 weeks after transplantation. The scores were tested in Cox regression models.

Results

Median follow-up time was 9.1 years (interquartile range 7.6-10.7 years). During the study period, there were 84 (12.2%) death-censored graft losses. The overall inflammation score was associated with long-term kidney graft loss both when assessed as a continuous variable (hazard ratio 1.03, 95% CI 1.01-1.06, P = 0.005) and as a categorical variable (4th quartile: hazard ratio 3.19, 95% CI 1.43-7.10, P = 0.005). In the pathway-specific analyses, fibrogenesis activity and vascular inflammation stood out. The vascular inflammation score was associated with inflammation in biopsies 6 weeks and 1 year after transplantation, while the fibrinogenesis score was associated with interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a systemic inflammatory environment early after kidney transplantation was associated with biopsy-confirmed kidney graft pathology and long-term kidney graft loss. The systemic vascular inflammation score correlated with inflammatory findings in biopsies 6 weeks and 1 year after transplantation.
Case Report: Successful treatment with methotrexate in a 10-year-old boy with co-occurrence of generalized psoriasis and vitiligo
Authors: Leong Pui-Ying , Chiu Tsu-Man , Wei James Cheng-Chung , Huo An-Ping
Published: October 2023

The co-occurrence of psoriasis (PsO) and vitiligo is rare in Asian countries, especially in children. This case report presents the first-ever occurrence of PsO combined with vitiligo in an Asian boy under 6 years of age, in whom symptom improvement was observed after the use of methotrexate (MTX) as the sole treatment. Although previous studies have indicated that there is a close correlation between the two diseases, methotrexate (MTX), which is a commonly used treatment for PsO, is not a standard treatment for vitiligo. Even with advanced progress in biologics and Janus kinase inhibitor (JAKi), the biologics and JAKi used in vitiligo are still inconsistent. In our case report, the successful use of MTX indicated that there are shared immune pathways between PsO and vitiligo. Further exploration is needed to optimize the treatment options for this co-occurrence of PsO and vitiligo.
Safety of JAK and IL-6 inhibitors in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a multicenter cohort study
Authors: Yoshida Shuhei , Miyata Masayuki , Suzuki Eiji , Kanno Takashi , Sumichika Yuya , Saito Kenji , Matsumoto Haruki , Temmoku Jumpei , Fujita Yuya , Matsuoka Naoki , Asano Tomoyuki , Sato Shuzo , Migita Kiyoshi
Published: October 2023

Background

The ORAL Surveillance trial showed a potentially higher incidence of malignancy and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) associated with tofacitinib than those associated with tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors (TNFis). However, few studies have compared the safety of non-TNFis or other Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors (JAKis). This study was aimed at comparing the incidence rates (IRs) of malignancies and MACEs in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treated using interleukin-6 (IL-6) inhibitors (IL-6is) or JAKis.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 427 patients with RA who were treated using an IL-6i (n = 273) or a JAKi (n = 154). We determined the IRs of malignancy and MACEs, and the standardized incidence ratio (SIR) of malignancies and investigated factors related to malignancy and MACEs. After adjusting the clinical characteristic imbalance by propensity score matching (PSM), we compared the IRs of adverse events between the JAKi and IL-6i groups.

Results

After PSM, the observational period was determined to be 605.27 patient-years (PY), and the median observational period was determined to be 2.28 years. We identified seven cases of malignancy (IR: 2.94 per 100 PY) in the JAKi-treated group and five cases (IR: 1.36 per 100 PY) in the IL-6i-treated group after PSM. The IR of MACEs was 2.56 and 0.83 (per 100 PY) in the JAKi- and IL-6i-treated groups. The IRRs of JAKi-treated patients versus IL-6i-treated patients were 2.13 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.67–7.42) for malignancy and 3.03 (95% CI: 0.77–15.21) for MACE. There were no significant differences in IRR for malignancy and MACE between both groups after PSM. Univariate and multivariable Cox regression analyses revealed that older age and JAKi use were independent risk factors for malignancy, while older age, hypertension, and JAKi use were independent risk factors for MACEs. The overall malignancy SIR was significantly higher in the JAKi-treated group compared to the general population (2.10/100 PY, 95% CI: 1.23–2.97).

Conclusion

The IRs of malignancy and MACE in patients with RA after PSM were comparable between IL-6i-treated and JAKi-treated patients. However, the SIR of malignancy in JAKi treatment was significantly higher than in the general population; therefore, further safety studies comparing JAKi to non-TNFi biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) are needed.
Tumor-infiltrating CCR2+ inflammatory monocytes counteract specific immunotherapy
Authors: Bartneck Joschka , Hartmann Ann-Kathrin , Stein Lara , Arnold-Schild Danielle , Klein Matthias , Stassen Michael , Marini Federico , Pielenhofer Jonas , Meiser Sophie Luise , Langguth Peter , Mack Matthias , Muth Sabine , Probst Hans-Christian , Schild Hansjörg , Radsak Markus Philipp
Published: October 2023

Tumor development and progression is shaped by the tumor microenvironment (TME), a heterogeneous assembly of infiltrating and resident host cells, their secreted mediators and intercellular matrix. In this context, tumors are infiltrated by various immune cells with either pro-tumoral or anti-tumoral functions. Recently, we published our non-invasive immunization platform DIVA suitable as a therapeutic vaccination method, further optimized by repeated application (DIVA2). In our present work, we revealed the therapeutic effect of DIVA2 in an MC38 tumor model and specifically focused on the mechanisms induced in the TME after immunization. DIVA2 resulted in transient tumor control followed by an immune evasion phase within three weeks after the initial tumor inoculation. High-dimensional flow cytometry analysis and single-cell mRNA-sequencing of tumor-infiltrating leukocytes revealed cytotoxic CD8+ T cells as key players in the immune control phase. In the immune evasion phase, inflammatory CCR2+ PDL-1+ monocytes with immunosuppressive properties were recruited into the tumor leading to suppression of DIVA2-induced tumor-reactive T cells. Depletion of CCR2+ cells with specific antibodies resulted in prolonged survival revealing CCR2+ monocytes as important for tumor immune escape in the TME. In summary, the present work provides a platform for generating a strong antigen-specific primary and memory T cell immune response using the optimized transcutaneous immunization method DIVA2. This enables protection against tumors by therapeutic immune control of solid tumors and highlights the immunosuppressive influence of tumor infiltrating CCR2+ monocytes that need to be inactivated in addition for successful cancer immunotherapy.
Using ecosystem models to inform ecosystem-based fisheries management in Europe: a review of the policy landscape and related stakeholder needs
Authors: Rodriguez-Perez Ana , Tsikliras Athanassios C. , Gal Gideon , Steenbeek Jeroen , Falk-Andersson Jannike , Heymans Johanna J.
Published: October 2023

The need to implement an ecosystem-based fisheries management (EBFM) is enshrined in numerous regulations and strategies, at both global and European level. In practice, it is challenging to implement EBFM because it requires a complex evaluation of interlinked management effects and environmental and climate forcing on multi-species interactions, habitat status and human activities. Ecosystem models are one of the most critical research tools to inform EBFM, because they can integrate a wide variety of data, examine multiple and complex ecosystem interactions, and can make forecasts based on specific management scenarios. However, despite clear progress in marine ecosystem modelling, many models do not address policy goals and targets, which hinders uptake in policy. In this paper, we review the global and European policies and implementing bodies which directly or indirectly have a repercussion on the implementation of EBFM. Moreover, we highlight specific stakeholder needs related to the implementation of EBFM in European waters, which ecosystem models could help address. We review the policy commitments that drive these needs and the concerns raised by stakeholders during a survey and dedicated workshop. Key topics of concern were effects of climate change; bycatch; protected areas/fisheries restricted areas; and reducing the impacts of trawling. Stakeholders also provided specific questions related to these topics which ecosystem models could help address. Scenario and data results visualizations, as well as specific barriers in using the results of ecosystem models for decision-making are also discussed. A close involvement of stakeholders in scenario development and in designing graphical outputs is important, and can help overcome some of the main barriers that can hinder uptake of models and scenarios, including a lack of understanding of the benefits and limits of ecosystem models; insufficient involvement and interaction with stakeholders; and inadequate characterization of uncertainties.
Bridging the gap for ice–ocean–ecosystem processes: integrated observing system for the Ross Sea-far East Antarctic Region
Authors: Heil Petra , Stevens Craig , Lee Won Sang , Eayrs Clare , Shin Hyoung Chul , Alexander Simon P. , Rack Wolfgang
Published: October 2023

Our understanding of cross-disciplinary connections for Antarctica’s role in the Earth system remains incomplete, especially around its coastal margins. The focus here is on sea-ice, oceanic, and atmospheric drivers in the joint Ross Sea-far East Antarctic Region (RSfEAR)—one which spans a large longitudinal range and connects a number of ice shelves and polynyas promoting sea-ice growth and underpinning a diverse and rich ecosystem. Here, we present a minireview of recent case studies and how these inform the design for a future integrated ocean–sea ice–atmosphere observing system. The review is built around five themes: i) regional setting, ii) recent studies in the region and current strategies, iii) gap analysis, iv) future observing system design, and v) wider implications for stakeholders.
Sol-gel synthesis of magnesium aluminate and synergistic degradation of Cr(VI) ion by adsorption and photocatalysis
Authors: Liu Miao , Wang Yi , Wu Yingjun , Liu Chunyang , Liu Xin
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Magnesium aluminate (MgAl2O4) is a new adsorbent, which can be used to adsorb dyes and drugs, but it has not been used to adsorb Cr(VI) ions.

Methods: A conventional polyacrylamide gel route with the different chelating agents including ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA), oxalic acid and salicylic acid have been applied to synthesis the MgAl2O4 nanoparticles with the high adsorption capacity and photocatalytic reduction capacity for the adsorption and reduction of Cr(VI). The phase compositions, microstructure characteristics, optical properties, adsorption capacities and photocatalytic reduction capacities of MgAl2O4 nanoparticles can be effectively regulated by changing the type of chelating agent.

Results and discussion: The pure phase MgAl2O4 nanoparticles were obtained by using EDTA and oxalic acid as chelating agents, but a small amount of MgO impurity appeared in the MgAl2O4 nanoparticles obtained by salicylic acid as chelating agents, which inhibited the adsorption and photocatalytic reduction ability of MgAl2O4 nanoparticles. The optimal MgAl2O4 content, Cr(VI) initial concentration and pH value were 0.75 mg/L, 100 mg/L and 5, respectively. The photocatalytic reduction capacity of MgAl2O4 nanoparticles obtained by oxalic acid as chelating agents was 3.56 times that of MgAl2O4 nanoparticles obtained by salicylic acid as chelating agents. The high adsorption capacity of MgAl2O4 nanoparticles is mainly due to electrostatic adsorption, while the high photocatalytic reduction capacity is mainly due to the high reduction capacity of active free radicals generated by the conduction electrons and valence band holes of MgAl2O4 nanoparticles.
High-Flow Nasal Cannula oxygen therapy in COVID-19: retrospective analysis of clinical outcomes – single center experience
Authors: Obradović Dušanka , Milovančev Aleksandra , Plećaš Đurić Aleksandra , Sovilj-Gmizić Stanislava , Đurović Vladimir , Šović Jovica , Đurđević Miloš , Tubić Stevan , Bulajić Jelena , Mišić Milena , Jojić Jovana , Pušara Miroslava , Lazić Ivana , Đurković Mladen , Bek Pupovac Renata , Vulić Aleksandra , Jozing Marija
Published: October 2023

Background

High-Flow Nasal Cannula (HFNC) oxygen therapy emerged as the therapy of choice in COVID-19-related pneumonia and moderate to severe acute hypoxemic respiratory failure (AHRF). HFNC oxygen therapy in COVID-19 has been recommended based its use to treat AHRF of other etiologies, and studies on assessing outcomes in COVID-19 patients are highly needed. This study aimed to examine outcomes in COVID-19 patients with pneumonia and severe AHRF treated with HFNC.

Materials and methods

The study included 235 COVID-19 patients with pneumonia treated with HFNC. Data extracted from medical records included demographic characteristics, comorbidities, laboratory parameters, clinical and oxygenation status, clinical complications, as well as the length of hospital stay. Patients were segregated into two groups based on their oxygen therapy needs: HDU group, those who exclusively required HFNC and ICU group, those whose oxygen therapy needed to be escalated at some point of hospital stay. The primary outcome was the need for respiratory support escalation (noninvasive or invasive mechanical ventilation) and the secondary outcome was the in-hospital all-cause mortality.

Results

The primary outcome was met in 113 (48%) of patients. The overall mortality was 70%, significantly higher in the ICU group [102 (90.2%) vs. 62 (50.1%), p < 0.001]. The rate of intrahospital infections was significantly higher in the ICU group while there were no significant differences in the length of hospital stay between the groups. The ICU group exhibited significant increases in D-dimer, NLR, and NEWS values, accompanied by a significant decrease in the SaO2/FiO2 ratio. The multivariable COX proportional regression analysis identified malignancy, higher levels of 4C Mortality Score and NEWS2 as significant predictors of mortality.

Conclusion

High-Flow Nasal Cannula oxygen therapy is a safe type of respiratory support in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia and acute hypoxemic respiratory failure with significantly less possibility for emergence of intrahospital infections. In 52% of patients, HFNC was successful in treating AHRF in COVID-19 patients. Overall, mortality in COVID-19 pneumonia with AHRF is still very high, especially in patients treated with noninvasive/invasive mechanical ventilation.
Regulation of blood-screening in vitro diagnostics in sub-Saharan African countries remains a challenge
Authors: Abdurrahman Goran , Samukange Washington , Lyoko Nyambe , Shonhiwa Negus Onai , Kafere Chancelar , Nübling C. Micha , Peeling Rosanna W. , Reinhardt Jens
Published: October 2023

According to the World Health Organization, blood must be screened for major transmitted infections before transfusion to prevent the possibility of passing an infection to the recipient. For accurate detection of infectious disease pathogens in the blood of donors, in-vitro diagnostic medical devices (IVDs) of high specificity and sensitivity should be used. In mature healthcare systems, the regulatory authorities authorize the usage of devices with the highest performance capabilities, which are also controlled through active market oversight. However, in Sub-Saharan African countries, the regulation of IVDs is often poorly developed. With the lack of stringent regulatory oversight, IVDs of poor quality can be put on the market and used for blood donor screening, which, ultimately, poses a great public health threat. The BloodTrain is a humanitarian project from the Germany Federal Ministry of Health that aims to help strengthen the regulatory authorities in Sub-Saharan partner countries. Here, we present the status of IVD regulation in the partner countries and the objectives that the BloodTrain project aims to achieve in the region toward regulating IVDs.
Processing and storage methods affect oral and gut microbiome composition
Authors: Superdock Dorothy K. , Zhang Wei , Poole Angela C.
Published: October 2023

In microbiome studies, fecal and oral samples are stored and processed in different ways, which could affect the observed microbiome composition. In this study, we compared storage and processing methods applied to samples prior to DNA extraction to determine how each affected microbial community diversity as assessed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. We collected dental swabs, saliva, and fecal samples from 10 individuals, with three technical replicates per condition. We assessed four methods of storing and processing fecal samples prior to DNA extraction. We also compared different fractions of thawed saliva and dental samples to fresh samples. We found that lyophilized fecal samples, fresh whole saliva samples, and the supernatant fraction of thawed dental samples had the highest levels of alpha diversity. The supernatant fraction of thawed saliva samples had the second highest evenness compared to fresh saliva samples. Then, we investigated the differences in observed community composition at the domain and phylum levels and identified the amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) that significantly differed in relative abundance between the conditions. Lyophilized fecal samples had a greater prevalence of Archaea as well as a greater ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes compared to the other conditions. Our results provide practical considerations not only for the selection of storage and processing methods but also for comparing results across studies. Differences in processing and storage methods could be a confounding factor influencing the presence, absence, or differential abundance of microbes reported in conflicting studies.