bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
New insights on testicular cancer prevalence with novel diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic approaches
Authors: Sadek Kadry M. , AbdEllatief Hazem Y. , Mahmoud Sahar F. E. , Alexiou Athanasios , Papadakis Marios , Al‐Hajeili Marwan , Saad Hebatallah M. , Batiha Gaber El‐Saber 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBackgroundTesticular cancer (TC), comprising merely 1% of male neoplasms, holds the distinction of being the most commonly encountered neoplasm among young males.Recent findingsMost cases of testicular neoplasms can be classified into two main groups, namely germ cell tumors representing approximately 95% of the cases, and sex cord‐stromal tumors accounting for about 5% of the cases. Moreover, its prevalence is on the rise across the globe. TC is a neoplastic condition characterized by a favorable prognosis. The advent of cisplatin‐based chemotherapeutic agents in the latter part of the 1970s has led to a significant enhancement in the 5‐year survival rate, which presently surpasses 95%. Given that TC is commonly detected before reaching the age of 40, it can be anticipated that these individuals will enjoy an additional 40–50 years of life following successful treatment. The potential causes of TC are multifactorial and related to different pathologies. Accurate identification is imperative to guarantee the utmost efficacious and suitable therapy. To a certain degree, this can be accomplished through the utilization of blood examinations for neoplastic indicators; nonetheless, an unequivocal diagnosis necessitates an evaluation of the histological composition of a specimen via a pathologist.ConclusionTC is multifactorial and has various pathologies, therefore this review aimed to revise the prenatal and postnatal causes as well as novel diagnostic biomarkers and the therapeutic strategies of TC.
Minimizing Shear Stress in Cell Signaling Studies
Authors: Mendez Josefina , Toker Alex 
Published: March 2024

AbstractCellular signal transduction comprises a complex series of biochemical reactions by which extracellular signals such as growth factors, hormones, cytokines, and neurotransmitters are translated into specific intracellular responses. Signal transduction is mediated by protein kinase phosphorylation cascades that culminate in the regulation of numerous cellular responses, including division, differentiation, migration, and survival. Importantly, signal relay pathways are dysregulated in human diseases, making the study of signal transduction important for both uncovering basic biology and understanding pathophysiology. Established laboratory cell culture models are useful for studying signal transduction mechanisms, but differences in sample handling procedures can introduce unwanted variability in experimental outcomes and conclusions. One such potential source of experimental variability is the introduction of fluid shear stress upon handling of tissue culture cells. Fluid shear stress triggers a wide range of cellular responses in adherent cell culture, including stimulating the production of cyclic AMP, potentiating the activation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2), and ultimately inducing changes in the gene expression of growth and remodeling factors. Further, mechanical stress on cells is physiologically relevant to the development of many pathologies. Here, we describe a detailed protocol for cell lysis and protein extraction that minimizes shear stress induced by classical cell harvest protocols. We also highlight the impact of fluid shear stress by using immunoblotting to assess ERK pathway activation as a readout for this protocol. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.Basic Protocol 1: Gentle cell lysis and protein extractionBasic Protocol 2: Immunoblotting for cell signaling readouts by SDS‐PAGE
Evolution of avian heat tolerance: The role of atmospheric humidity
Authors: Freeman Marc T. , Coulson Bianca , Short James C. , Ngcamphalala Celiwe A. , Makola Mathome O. , McKechnie Andrew E. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThe role of atmospheric humidity in the evolution of endotherms' thermoregulatory performance remains largely unexplored, despite the fact that elevated humidity is known to impede evaporative cooling capacity. Using a phylogenetically informed comparative framework, we tested the hypothesis that pronounced hyperthermia tolerance among birds occupying humid lowlands evolved to reduce the impact of humidity‐impeded scope for evaporative heat dissipation by comparing heat tolerance limits (HTLs; maximum tolerable air temperature), maximum body temperatures (Tbmax), and associated thermoregulatory variables in humid (19.2 g H2O m−3) versus dry (1.1 g H2O m−3) air among 30 species from three climatically distinct sites (arid, mesic montane, and humid lowland). Humidity‐associated decreases in evaporative water loss and resting metabolic rate were 27%–38% and 21%–27%, respectively, and did not differ significantly between sites. Decreases in HTLs were significantly larger among arid‐zone (mean ± SD = 3.13 ± 1.12°C) and montane species (2.44 ± 1.0°C) compared to lowland species (1.23 ± 1.34°C), with more pronounced hyperthermia among lowland (Tbmax = 46.26 ± 0.48°C) and montane birds (Tbmax = 46.19 ± 0.92°C) compared to arid‐zone species (45.23 ± 0.24°C). Our findings reveal a functional link between facultative hyperthermia and humidity‐related constraints on evaporative cooling, providing novel insights into how hygric and thermal environments interact to constrain avian performance during hot weather. Moreover, the macrophysiological patterns we report provide further support for the concept of a continuum from thermal specialization to thermal generalization among endotherms, with adaptive variation in body temperature correlated with prevailing climatic conditions.
Towards sustainable urban transport—Political agenda formation and policy windows in Helsinki, Oslo, and Stockholm
Authors: Karjalainen Linda E. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThis paper examines the development of urban transport political agendas in three Nordic capital cities, Helsinki, Oslo, and Stockholm, that strive towards urban sustainability. Utilising the Multiple Streams framework as a basis for analysis, an overview of local problems, policy solutions, and politics that have characterised transport systems and the related policy development processes over time is constructed. The attention is then drawn towards the points in time where the streams connect, and policy windows occur, to detect formative changes and their enablers towards sustainability. The data consists of 18 semi‐structured expert interviews, conducted amongst municipal policymakers and planners. The results reveal several policy windows that have transformed the local transport systems towards sustainability and an increasingly people‐oriented approach. The relevance of global climate change awareness, international planning trends for liveability and cycling, public pressure, individual political decisions, and establishment of modal hierarchy is evident across the case cities, while car traffic regulation is politically challenging and addressed through very different means at very different times. The findings of this paper outline diverse ways for advancing sustainability in local policy development but also detect methods for politically halting the process.
Trajectories and predictive factors of weight recovery in patients with anorexia nervosa completing treatment. A latent class mixed model approach
Authors: Di Lodovico Laura , Al Tabchi Amir , Clarke Julia , Mancusi Rossella Letizia , Messeca Dylan , Duriez Philibert , Hanachi Mouna , Gorwood Philip 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBackgroundTreatment of anorexia nervosa (AN) sometimes requires hospitalisation, which is often lengthy, with little ability to predict individual trajectory. Depicting specific profiles of treatment response and their clinical predictors could be beneficial to tailor inpatient management. The aim of this research was to identify clusters of weight recovery during inpatient treatment, and their clinical predictors.MethodsA sample of 181 inpatients who completed a treatment programme for AN was included in a retrospective study. A latent class mixed model approach was used to identify distinct weight‐gain trajectories. Clinical variables were introduced in a multinomial logistic regression model as predictors of the different classes.ResultsA four‐class quadratic model was retained, able to correctly classify 63.7% of the cohort. It encompassed a late‐rising, flattening, moderate trajectory of body mass index (BMI) increase (class 1), a late‐rising, steady, high trajectory (class 2), an early‐rising, flattening, high trajectory (class 3) and an early‐rising, steady, high trajectory (class 4). Significant predictors of belonging to a class were baseline BMI (all classes), illness duration (class 2), and benzodiazepine prescription (class 3).ConclusionPredicting different kinetics of weight recovery based on routinely collected clinical indicators could improve clinician awareness and patient engagement by enabling shared expectations of treatment response.
Geochemical assessment of mineral sequestration of carbon dioxide in the midcontinent rift
Authors: Abousif Alsedik , Wronkiewicz David , Masoud Abdelmoniem 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThis study examines the potential of Midcontinent Rift rocks to facilitate long‐term CO2 sequestration by providing the necessary Ca and Mg for carbonate mineralization. Surface samples were collected from the Oronto and Bayfield‐Jacobsville Groups around Lake Superior and used for petrography and X‐ray diffraction to determine their mineral composition. Also, X‐ray fluorescence was also used to assess their bulk chemical composition. The samples were then exposed to CO2 and deionized water in Teflon‐lined vessels at 90°C, and the resulting leachate fluids were analyzed for the cation released during the testing. SEM microscopy was used to examine the samples for potential mineralization of carbonate minerals. The Oronto Group sediments consist primarily of feldspathic to feldspathic lithic arenites with a chlorite‐dominated matrix, and the primary porosity is blocked by calcite and hematite cement. The Bayfield–Jacobsville sequences are porous quartz arenites to feldspathic quartz arenites that do not contain significant accumulation of Ca‐, Mg‐, and Fe‐bearing minerals. The leachate fluids obtained from Oronto Group samples exhibit a maximum Ca release rate (5.2 × 10−4 mole/cm2.day), indicating rapid calcite cement dissolution and increased porosity and permeability. SEM/EDS microanalysis revealed areas where pore‐filling calcite was preferentially dissolved. Longer‐term rock‐water reactions resulted in induced carbonate mineralization, as evidenced by calcite crystals observed in a sample reacted for 102 days. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Activity counseling early postelective percutaneous coronary intervention (ACE‐PCI): Mixed‐methods pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Freene Nicole , Carroll Suzanne J. , Flynn Allyson , Bowen Sarah , Holley Roslyn , Rodway Kerry , Niyonsenga Theo , Davey Rachel 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBackgroundPhysical activity (PA) levels of people with coronary heart disease are low in the first 30 days after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), increasing the risk of recurrent cardiac events. Following PCI, PA counseling delivered by a physiotherapist before discharge may increase the PA levels of patients. Preliminary work is required to determine the effects of the counseling session compared to usual care.ObjectivesTo investigate the feasibility and potential efficacy of a brief physiotherapist‐led PA counseling session immediately after an elective PCI compared to usual care for improved PA early post‐PCI.MethodsUsing concealed allocation and blinded assessments, eligible participants (n = 30) were randomized to a physiotherapist‐led PA counseling session (30 min) or usual care (nurse‐led PA advice < 5 min). The primary outcome was daily minutes of moderate‐to‐vigorous PA (accelerometry; 3 weeks). Secondary outcomes included cardiac rehabilitation intention, anxiety and depression levels (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), and quality‐of‐life (MacNew questionnaire). Recruitment, retention, and attrition were assessed for feasibility. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 13 participants to determine intervention acceptability, and barriers and enablers to PA.ResultsBetween and within‐group comparisons were not significant in intention‐to‐treat analyses. All feasibility criteria were met except for retention and attrition of participants. At 3 weeks, only 25% of participants were planning to attend cardiac rehabilitation, with no between‐group differences. Increased PA at 3 weeks was associated with participants that were younger, without other chronic disease,s and more active immediately following discharge. Interviews revealed personal, environmental, and program‐based themes for barriers and enablers to PA.ConclusionsA physiotherapist‐led PA counseling session may not improve PA levels early post‐elective PCI compared to very brief PA advice delivered by nurses. A larger multicentre randomized controlled trial is feasible with minor modifications to participant follow‐up. Further research is required.
Investigating the relationship between Epstein‐Barr virus infection and gastric cancer: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Dokanei Saman , Minai‐Tehrani Dariush , Moghoofei Mohsen , Rostamian Mosayeb 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBackground and AimsGastric cancer (GC) is a common cancer type worldwide, and various factors can be involved in its occurrence. One of these factors is Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) infection. In this regard, a systematic review and meta‐analysis was conducted to achieve a better understanding of the EBV prevalence in GC samples.MethodsEnglish databases were searched and studies that reported the prevalence and etiological factors of EBV related to GC from July 2007 to November 2022 were retrieved. The reported data were selected based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The pooled prevalence of EBV infection with 95% confidence intervals was calculated. Quality assessment, heterogeneity testing, and publication bias assessment were also performed. The literature search showed 953 studies, of which 87 studies met our inclusion criteria and were used for meta‐analysis.ResultsThe pooled prevalence of EBV infection related to GC was estimated to be 9.5% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 8.2%−11%) in the general population. The prevalence of EBV infection related to GC by gender was 13.5% (95% CI: 11.1%−16.3%) in males and 7.6% (95% CI: 5.4%−10.6%) in females. No significant differences were observed in terms of geographical region. Out of the 87 studies included in the meta‐analysis, the most common diagnostic test was in situ hybridization (58 cases).ConclusionsAltogether, the results indicated that EBV infection is one of the important factors in the development of GC. However, this does not necessarily mean that EBV infection directly causes GC since other factors may also be involved in the development of GC. Therefore, it is recommended to conduct extensive epidemiological studies on various aspects of the relationship between this virus and GC, which can provide valuable information for understanding the relationship between EBV and GC.
Japanese stock market sectoral dynamics: A time and frequency analysis
Authors: El Khoury Rim , Alshater Muneer M. , Polat Onur 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThis study examines the Japanese stock market connectedness across different sectors, focusing on both the time and frequency dimensions. The dataset used spans from January 1999 to April 2022 and employs various methodologies, including time‐varying parameter vector autoregressions, TVP‐VAR frequency dependency, and Quantile coherency. The empirical findings reveal that cyclical or aggressive stocks predominantly act as net transmitters of shocks across sectors. Moreover, short‐term spillovers are more significant compared to intermediate‐term spillovers, indicating that Japanese sectors are more pronounced to market shocks in the short run. The spillover effects are also asymmetric and vary over time. Additionally, the real estate sector exhibits diversification benefits across different time horizons, while the energy sector provides protection primarily in the short run. This research contributes to the development of financial policies aimed at reducing sectoral imbalances and promoting stable growth. Furthermore, it offers insights for investors seeking to devise optimal portfolio diversification strategies.
Phase 2 study of the efficacy and safety of ponsegromab in patients with cancer cachexia: PROACC‐1 study design
Authors: Groarke John D. , Crawford Jeffrey , Collins Susie M. , Lubaczewski Shannon L. , Breen Danna M. , Harrington Magdalena A. , Jacobs Ira , Qiu Ruolun , Revkin James , Rossulek Michelle I. , Saxena Aditi R. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBackgroundCancer cachexia is a multifactorial metabolic wasting syndrome characterized by anorexia, unintentional loss of weight involving both skeletal muscle and adipose tissues, progressive functional impairment and reduced survival. Therapeutic strategies for this serious condition are very limited. Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF‐15) is a cytokine that is implicated in cancer cachexia and may represent both a biomarker of cancer cachexia and a potential therapeutic target. Ponsegromab is a potent and selective humanized monoclonal antibody that inhibits GDF‐15‐mediated signalling. Preclinical and preliminary phase 1 data suggest that ponsegromab‐mediated inactivation of circulating GDF‐15 may lead to improvement in key characteristics of cachexia. The primary objective of this phase 2 study is to assess the effect of ponsegromab on body weight in patients with cancer, cachexia and elevated GDF‐15 concentrations. Secondary objectives include assessing physical activity, physical function, actigraphy, appetite, nausea and vomiting, fatigue and safety. Exploratory objectives include evaluating pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, immunogenicity, lumbar skeletal muscle index and Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors.MethodsApproximately 168 adults with non‐small‐cell lung, pancreatic or colorectal cancers who have cachexia and elevated GDF‐15 concentrations will be randomized in a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study (NCT05546476). Participants meeting eligibility criteria will be randomized 1:1:1:1 to one of three dose groups of ponsegromab (100, 200 or 400 mg) or matching placebo administered subcutaneously every 4 weeks for an initial 12‐week treatment period. This is followed by optional open‐label treatment with ponsegromab of 400 mg administered every 4 weeks for up to 1 year. The primary endpoint is mean change from baseline in body weight at Week 12. A mixed model for repeated measures followed by a Bayesian Emax model will be used for the primary analysis. Secondary endpoints include physical activity, physical function and actigraphy measured by remote digital sensors; patient‐reported appetite‐related symptoms assessed by Functional Assessment of Anorexia‐Cachexia Therapy subscale scores; anorexia/appetite, nausea and vomiting, and fatigue evaluated according to questions from the Cancer‐Related Cachexia Symptom Diary; and incidence of adverse events, safety laboratory tests, vital signs and electrocardiogram abnormalities.PerspectiveCancer‐related cachexia is an area of significant unmet medical need. This study will support the clinical development of ponsegromab as a novel inhibitor of GDF‐15, which may ameliorate key pathologies of cancer cachexia to improve patient symptoms, functionality and quality of life.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT05546476.
Wild boar effects on hair‐tube sampling
Authors: Tomassini Orlando , Pardini Andrea , Aghemo Anna , Baldeschi Benedetta , Favilla Andrea , Bedini Gianni , Petroni Giulio , Giunchi Dimitri , Massolo Alessandro 
Published: March 2024

AbstractHair tubes are one of the most effective tools for sampling small‐mammal assemblages. Despite their efficiency, they can be damaged by wildlife. We quantified wildlife‐induced disturbance of hair‐tube sampling in the Monte Pisano mountain system in Italy. At each site we tied 2 tubes together to form a hair trap and placed them in 3 different areas. We measured disturbances by counting the number of hair traps disturbed and identified the species that caused damage with cameras. Although approximately 27% (n = 164/600) of hair traps were disturbed, 2 hair traps/site allowed us to collect data from 97% of site checks from undisturbed and retrieved hair traps. Wild boars (Sus scrofa) were attracted to hair traps by olfactory and acoustic signals and caused the most disturbances. Displaced tubes detected a similar number of hairs and number of species as undisturbed tubes; species richness estimates that include retrieved displaced tubes should provide reliable data. To avoid data loss when conducting hair‐trap monitoring, we suggest using ≥2 hair traps per site.
Boosting the Biodegradation and Bioactivity of PBS‐DLS Copolymers via Incorporation of PEG
Authors: Zarei Moein , Michalkiewicz Beata , El Fray Miroslawa 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBiodegradable polymers play a crucial role in the development of materials for biomedical applications. This study investigates the enzymatic biodegradation, bioactivity, and cytotoxicity of poly(butylene succinate‐dilinoleic succinate) (PBS‐DLS) copolymers modified with poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG). Two copolymer variations with different segmental compositions (70 wt.% and 60 wt.% of hard segments) are synthesized. After modifying the copolymers with PEG, the presence of a lipase catalyst accelerated degradation after 20 days, evidenced by reduced residual content. Gel permeation chromatography analysis showed up to 40% decrease in molecular weight, while gravimetric analysis indicated a mass loss of up to 10%. Morphological examination revealed that the enzymatic breakdown, facilitated by hydrolase activity (boosted by the presence of PEG), resulted in surface erosion, holes, and changes in spherulitic morphology. Bioactivity studies demonstrated the formation of biomimetic calcium/phosphate (Ca/P) crystals. Copolymers with higher crystallinity (70 wt.% hard segments) favored tricalcium phosphate‐like crystal formation, while those with lower crystallinity (60 wt.% hard segments) are more susceptible to hydroxyapatite precipitation. In vitro cytotoxicity tests exhibited excellent cell viability and attachment for all copolymers. The ability to control degradation through PEG modification, along with their bioactivity and cell compatibility, positions them as promising candidates for diverse biomedical applications.