bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Unveiling Spontaneous Renal Tubule-Like Structures from Human Adult Renal Progenitor Cell Spheroids Derived from Urine
Authors: Giannuzzi Francesca , Picerno Angela , Maiullari Silvia , Montenegro Francesca , Cicirelli Antonella , Stasi Alessandra , De Palma Giuseppe , Lorenzo Vito Di , Pertosa Giovanni Battista , Pontrelli Paola , Rossini Michele , Leo Vincenzo Di , Errede Mariella , Tamma Roberto , Ribatti Domenico , Gesualdo Loreto , Sallustio Fabio 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The rapidly developing field of renal spheroids and organoids has emerged as a valuable tool for modeling nephrotoxicity, kidney disorders, and kidney development. However, existing studies have relied on intricate and sophisticated differentiation protocols to generate organoids and tubuloids, necessitating the external administration of multiple growth factors within precise timeframes. In our study, we demonstrated that human adult renal progenitor cells (ARPCs) isolated from urine of both healthy subjects or patients, have the capacity to form spheroids that naturally can form very long tubule-like structures. Importantly, the generation of these tubule-like formations is driven solely by ARPCs, without the need for the external use of chemokines or growth factors to artificially induce the process. These tubule-like structures exhibit expression of structural and functional renal tubule markers and bear, in some cases, striking structural similarities to various nephron regions, including the distal convoluted tubule, the loop of Henle, and proximal convoluted tubules. Furthermore, ARPC spheroids express markers typical of pluripotent cells, such as stage-specific embryonic antigen 4 (SSEA4), secrete elevated levels of renin, and showed angiogenic properties. Notably, ARPCs isolated from urine of patients with IgA nephropathy form spheroids capable of recapitulating the characteristic IgA1 deposition observed in this disease. These findings represent a significant advancement in the field, opening up new avenues for regenerative medicine in the study of kidney development, mechanisms underlying renal disorders, and the development of regenerative therapies for kidney-related ailments.
Effects of atmospheric systems operating in the Northeast of Brazil on the volumes of artificial reservoirs
Authors: Gomes Rafaela dos Santos , Lima Kellen Carla 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

This study aims to quantify the impact of rainfall patterns influenced by the seasonal movement of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) southward, Frontal Systems (FS), and South Atlantic Convergence Zone (SACZ) during El Niño, La Niña, and neutral years on water volumes in artificial reservoirs across the Northeast of Brazil (NEB) from 1998 to 2018. Data sources include outgoing longwave radiation from NOAA, daily rainfall from the Global Precipitation Climatology Project, and reservoir volume from the National Water Agency and state departments. ITCZ identification employed semi-objective techniques, while CPTEC/INPE reports aided in identifying ITCZ and SACZ. The study calculated reservoir water volume percentages and applied correspondence analysis between volume changes and atmospheric systems during El Niño, La Niña, and neutral years. Typically, the ITCZ central position during February-May hovered around − 1ºS; when deviated, negative rainfall anomalies occurred, correlating with reduced reservoir volumes. El Niño years consistently exhibited negative rainfall anomalies with the ITCZ between − 1ºS and 1ºN. Approximately 17% of FS reaching Brazil during November-February reached southern NEB, with an average of three FS and SACZ cases per season in this region. Lower FS and SACZ occurrences during November-February often corresponded with negative reservoir volume trends.
Determination of the appropriate chemotherapy for patients aged 80 years or older with diffuse large B cell lymphoma
Authors: Kim Min Jung , Cho Junhun , Kim Won Seog , Kim Seok Jin , Yoon Sang Eun 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The optimal chemotherapy for newly diagnosed (ND) diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) in patients aged 80 years or older has not been conclusively determined. Due to the expected toxicities and comorbidities in this age group, intensifying the dosages of chemotherapy may not always be a viable solution. However, undertreating the disease based solely on a patient’s frailties can lead to disease progression, and patients often succumb to the disease in routine practices. This retrospective study was conducted to determine whether there is an optimal regimen for elderly DLBCL patients. We selected ND-DLBCL patients aged 80 years or older and excluded those who did not receive chemotherapies or those who received treatment other than combinations of rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone (R-CHOP) or rituximab and bendamustine (BR). We assessed the efficacies, survival outcomes, and toxicity according to the regimen, including standard-dose R-CHOP, R-miniCHOP, and BR. The patients who received the standard dose of R-CHOP presented a better overall response rate (ORR) than those who received R-miniCHOP. Moreover, there was no significant difference in progression-free survival (PFS, p = 0.581) or overall survival (OS, p = 0.693) among the patients who received standard-dose R-CHOP, R-miniCHOP, or BR. The patients with Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0–1, serum albumin ≥ 3.5 g/dL, early stage, and GCB subtype were associated with superior PFS and OS. The incidence of any grade or grade ≥ 3 neutropenia was reported in patients who received the standard dose of R-CHOP, but there were no significant differences in treatment-related mortality across the regimens. Nevertheless, the patients who addressed adverse events and followed the planned treatment schedules seemed to achieve better treatment survival outcomes. No single superior regimen was found for DLBCL patients ≥80 years. These insights provide valuable guidance for tailoring treatment strategies to optimize outcomes for elderly DLBCL patients, particularly those with poor health conditions and specific phenotypic characteristics. Thus, comprehensive evaluation before chemotherapy initiation needs to be performed for better survival outcomes.
Superficial abdominal surgical site infection caused by Aspergillus welwitschiae: a case report
Authors: Horiuchi Hiroshi , Watanabe Akira , Yaguchi Takashi , Ban Sayaka , Otsuka Tsuyoshi , Miyazaki Hiroshi , Furuya Ryosuke 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Aspergillus spp. are rare causes of surgical site infections (SSIs). Aspergillus section Nigri, commonly identified as Aspergillus niger through morphological findings, has been sparsely reported as a cause of abdominal SSIs.
Case presentation
An 86-year-old woman with a history of hypertension, chronic kidney disease, and atrial fibrillation who was taking 6 mg of prednisolone daily for rheumatoid arthritis was admitted to our hospital because of sudden abdominal pain. An open Hartmann operation was performed on the day of admission with a diagnosis of sigmoid colon perforation. A superficial abdominal SSI was observed. Aspergillus welwitschiae, which belongs to Aspergillus section Nigri, was identified through calmodulin gene analysis. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of voriconazole (VRCZ) was 2 mg/L. Surgical removal of the infected tissue and administration of VRCZ were effective in treating the infection.
Conclusions
Given the reported tolerance of azoles in Nigri section species, identification and drug susceptibility testing of these fungi are highly important.
Clinical efficacy of thalidomide for various genotypes of beta thalassemia
Authors: Yang Wei-jia , Kang Qing-ping , Zhou Qian , Lin Tao , Gong Xiao-min , Huang Cui-juan , Dou Min , Lin Ying 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Objective
The objective of this study was to investigate the therapeutic efficacy of thalidomide across various genotype presentations of β-thalassemia so as to facilitate the early screening of thalidomide-sensitive thalassemia cases and to understand the impact of iron overload on thalidomide.
Methods
From our initial sample of 52 patients, we observed 48 patients with β-thalassemia for two years after administration of thalidomide. This cohort included 34 patients with transfusion-dependent thalassemia (TDT) and 14 patients with non-transfusion-dependent thalassemia (NTDT). We recorded the values of hemoglobin (Hb), fetal hemoglobin (HbF), and serum ferritin (SF) in the baseline period and at 1, 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months after enrollment, as well as the pre- and post-treatment blood transfusion volume in all 48 cases. According to the increase in Hb levels from baseline during the 6-month observation period, the response to thalidomide was divided into four levels: main response (MaR), minor response (MiR), slow response (SLR), and no response (NR). A decrease in serum ferritin levels compared to baseline was considered alleviation of iron overload. We calculated the overall response rate (ORR) as follows: ORR = MaR + MiR + SLR/number of observed cases.
Results
The ORR was 91.7% (44/48 cases), and 72.9% showed MaR (35/48 cases). Among the 34 patients with TDT, 21 patients (61.8%) were free of blood transfusion, and the remaining 13 patients still required blood transfusion, but their total blood transfusion volume reduced by 31.3% when compared to the baseline. We found a total of 33 cases with 10 combinations of advantageous genes, which included 5 cases with βCD41-42/βCD17 and 6 cases with βCD41-42/β-28. Based on the treatment outcomes among the 48 cases in the observation group, there were 33 cases in the MaR group and 15 cases in the SLR/NR group. There was a difference in HbF between the two groups at baseline (P = 0.041). There were significant differences between the two groups in Hb and HbF at the time points of 6 and 12 months, respectively (P < 0.001). Compared to the baseline measurement, there was a significant decrease in the level of SF at months 12 and 24 (P < 0.001).
Conclusion
In this study, we identified 10 β-thalassemia gene combinations that were sensitive to thalidomide. These gene combinations can be used for initial screening and to predict the therapeutic effect of thalidomide in clinical practice. We examined the therapeutic response to thalidomide and found that the administration of thalidomide in combination with standardized iron removal was more beneficial in reducing iron overload.
12/15-Lipooxygenase Inhibition Reduces Microvessel Constriction and Microthrombi after Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in Mice
Authors: Dienel Ari , Hong Sung Ha , Zeineddine Hussein A , Thomas Sithara , M Shafeeque C , Jose Dania A , Torres Kiara , Guzman Jose , Dunn Andrew , T P Kumar , Rao Gadiparthi N. , Blackburn Spiros L. , McBride Devin W. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background and Purpose
Impaired cerebral circulation, induced by blood vessel constrictions and microthrombi, leads to delayed cerebral ischemia after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). 12/15-Lipooxygenase (12/15-LOX) overexpression has been implicated in worsening early brain injury outcomes following SAH. However, it is unknown if 12/15-LOX is important in delayed pathophysiological events after SAH. Since 12/15-LOX produces metabolites that induce inflammation and vasoconstriction, we hypothesized that 12/15-LOX leads to microvessel constriction and microthrombi formation after SAH, and thus 12/15-LOX is an important target to prevent delayed cerebral ischemia.
Methods
SAH was induced in C57BL/6 and 12/15-LOX−/− mice of both sexes by endovascular perforation. Expression of 12/15-LOX was assessed in brain tissue slices and in vitro. C57BL/6 mice were administered either ML351 (12/15-LOX inhibitor) or vehicle. Mice were evaluated for daily neuroscore and euthanized on day five to assess cerebral 12/15-LOX expression, vessel constrictions, platelet activation, microthrombi, neurodegeneration, infarction, cortical perfusion, and for development of delayed deficits. Finally, the effect of 12/15-LOX inhibition on platelet activation was assessed in SAH patient samples using a platelet spreading assay.
Results
In SAH mice, 12/15-LOX was upregulated in brain vascular cells and there was an increase in 12-S-HETE. Inhibition of 12/15-LOX improved brain perfusion on days 4–5 and attenuated delayed pathophysiological events, including microvessel constrictions, microthrombi, neuronal degeneration, and infarction. Additionally, 12/15-LOX inhibition reduced platelet activation in human and mouse blood samples.
Conclusions
Cerebrovascular 12/15-LOX overexpression plays a major role in brain dysfunction after SAH by triggering microvessel constrictions and microthrombi formation, which reduces brain perfusion. Inhibiting 12/15-LOX may be a therapeutic target to improve outcomes after SAH.
Fewer berries and more pods: losers and winners of chronic disturbance in an Ecuadorian tropical dry forest
Authors: Espinosa Carlos Iván , Jara-Guerrero Andrea , Castillo-Escobar Judith , Cueva-Ortiz Jorge , Gusmán-Montalván Elizabeth , Stimm Bernd , Hildebrandt Patrick , Escudero Adrián 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Although chronic disturbance is widely recognized as a main driver of biodiversity loss in tropical dry forests, their consequences beyond the taxonomic loss perspective (i.e the functional dimension of diversity) still need to be clarified, especially in those plant traits associated with dispersal. Here, we evaluated the effects of chronic disturbance on the functional diversity of a seasonally dry tropical forest, and their potential effects on the frugivores guild. We characterized eight plant traits related to seed dispersal and calculated the community weighted means and functional diversities for trees and the whole woody community. We used generalized linear models to evaluate the effects of the disturbance on these functional estimates in relation with the abundance and diversity of fruits as resources for wildlife. Our results revealed that, the dominance of plants with costly fruiting species was reduced with disturbance. Functional richness and divergence were reduced with the disturbance, mainly in the qualitative traits. Finally, the availability of resources was slightly different between groups of dispersers, observing a general pattern of reduction in the availability and richness of fruits with disturbance. Our results suggest that the changes in species richness and abundance are not random but the result of filtering on traits related to dispersal costs and their subsequent ability to withstand environmental stress. The observed changes in vegetation have a direct effect on the availability of resources for frugivorous species, which in the medium term can affect the woody species persistence and catalyze the woody species loss.
Probabilistic Nested Model Selection in Pharmacokinetic Analysis of DCE-MRI Data in Animal Model of Cerebral Tumor
Authors: Bagher-Ebadian Hassan , Brown Stephen , Ghassemi Mohammad M. , Acharya Prabhu C. , Chetty Indrin J. , Ewing James R. , Movsas Benjamin , Thind Kundan 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Best current practice in the analysis of dynamic contrast enhanced (DCE)-MRI is to employ a voxel-by-voxel model selection from a hierarchy of nested models. This nested model selection (NMS) assumes that the observed time-trace of contrast-agent (CA) concentration within a voxel, corresponds to a singular physiologically nested model. However, admixtures of different models may exist within a voxel’s CA time-trace. This study introduces an unsupervised feature engineering technique (Kohonen-Self-Organizing-Map (K-SOM)) to estimate the voxel-wise probability of each nested model.
Methods
Sixty-six immune-compromised-RNU rats were implanted with human U-251N cancer cells, and DCE-MRI data were acquired from all the rat brains. The time-trace of change in the longitudinal-relaxivity (ΔR1) for all animals’ brain voxels was calculated. DCE-MRI pharmacokinetic (PK) analysis was performed using NMS to estimate three model regions: Model-1: normal vasculature without leakage, Model-2: tumor tissues with leakage without back-flux to the vasculature, Model-3: tumor vessels with leakage and back-flux. Approximately two hundred thirty thousand (229,314) normalized ΔR1 profiles of animals’ brain voxels along with their NMS results were used to build a K-SOM (topology-size: 8x8, with competitive-learning algorithm) and probability map of each model. K-fold nested-cross-validation (NCV, k = 10) was used to evaluate the performance of the K-SOM probabilistic-NMS (PNMS) technique against the NMS technique.
Results
The K-SOM PNMS’s estimation for the leaky tumor regions were strongly similar (Dice-Similarity-Coefficient, DSC = 0.774 [CI: 0.731–0.823], and 0.866 [CI: 0.828–0.912] for Models 2 and 3, respectively) to their respective NMS regions. The mean-percent-differences (MPDs, NCV, k = 10) for the estimated permeability parameters by the two techniques were: -28%, + 18%, and + 24%, for vp, Ktrans, and ve, respectively. The KSOM-PNMS technique produced microvasculature parameters and NMS regions less impacted by the arterial-input-function dispersion effect.
Conclusion
This study introduces an unsupervised model-averaging technique (K-SOM) to estimate the contribution of different nested-models in PK analysis and provides a faster estimate of permeability parameters.
Urban-rural differences in factors associated with smartphone addiction among preschoolers in Dhaka district, Bangladesh: a cross-sectional investigation
Authors: Kibria Md. Golam , Islam Taslima , Sultana Papia , Jahan Nusrat , Anannna Sadia Anjum , Mohiuddin Golam , Roy Manoranjan , Alif Sheikh M 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background: Children are increasingly becoming addicted to smartphones and screens, which is raising concerns about their physical and mental wellbeing. This study aimed to assess urban-rural differences in the prevalence and correlates of smartphone addiction among preschoolers in Dhaka district, Bangladesh.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among the mothers of 840 preschoolers living in Dhaka city and two sub-districts. We assessed preschoolers’ smartphone addiction using the child version of the Smartphone Addiction Proneness Scale. Logistic regression was performed to identify the correlates of smartphone addiction among preschoolers, adjusting for potential confounders.
Results: The overall prevalence of smartphone addiction was 59.9%, and it was higher among urban preschoolers (urban: 70.5% vs. rural: 49.3%). Playing games on smartphones was a risk factor for smartphone addiction, and the likelihood of addiction was higher among rural children (aOR: 3.76, 2.18 to 6.5) compared to urban children (aOR: 2.30, 95% CI: 1.25 to 4.26). Mother’s daily smartphone use at home for more than two hours in both urban (aOR: 2.65, 95% CI: 1.31 to 5.35) and rural areas (aOR: 1.91, 95% CI: 1.11 to 3.28) were associated with smartphone addiction. Both urban and rural children were respectively 1.64 (95% CI: 1.08 to 2.47) and 1.53 (95% CI: 1.14 to 2.07) times more likely to develop smartphone addiction if the number of smartphones they accessed increased by one. In urban areas, the children of working mothers were at 2.91 (95% CI: 1.09 to 7.73) times higher risk of smartphone addiction compared to those of stay-at-home mothers. Rural children who used the Wi-Fi internet had the higher odds of showing addictive behaviours (aOR: 3.03, 95% CI: 1.88 to 4.88).
Conclusions: The prevalence of smartphone addiction was higher among urban children compared to rural ones. We found sociodemographic and smartphone use pattern-related risk factors for smartphone addiction among children in both urban and rural areas. Therefore, it is very important to adopt appropriate counselling and health education to prevent and control smartphone addiction in preschoolers.
Cerebral Insights into Olfactory Discrimination: Vanillin, Vanitrope, and Vanillyl Ethyl Ether
Authors: Joshi Akshita , Thaploo Divesh , Weise Susanne , Warr Jonathan , Hummel Thomas 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The study investigates neural processing underlying the perception of vanillin and structurally similar odorants, vanitrope, and vanillyl ethyl ether (VEE), aiming to discern subtle differences in odor perception using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Despite similar psychophysical ratings of intensity, pleasantness, and familiarity for the odors, fMRI analysis with 44 individuals revealed distinct activation patterns in brain regions associated with olfactory processing, memory retrieval, and odor recognition. Specifically, increased activations were observed in the parahippocampal gyrus and left amygdala during the perception of vanillin compared to vanitrope and VEE. This indicates a link between emotional responses and familiarity; particularly during vanillin's resemblance to the familiar scent of vanilla. Results from further analysis could imply that the orbitofrontal cortex is involved in the diffentiation of odors, especially in linking vanillin to the the familiar aroma of vanilla, while the hippocampus might be involved in consolidating odor-induced memories. The findings underscore the intricate interplay between olfactory perception, emotional processing, and memory consolidation within the human brain. The study demonstrates the utility of fMRI in elucidating subtle perceptual differences in similar odorants and sheds light on the underlying neural mechanisms governing odor discrimination and recognition.