bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The dilution evaluation as a corrective measure for interference in the white blood cell scattergram in Beckman Coulter DxH 900
Authors: Freitas Filipa P. , Reis Jorge , Oliveira Joana , Veiga Pedro Mota , Raquel Paiva Ana , Soares Rui 
Published: April 2024

AbstractBackgroundThe Beckman Coulter DxH 900 is a haematological analyser capable of counting and sizing blood cells, and obtaining a complete blood cell count (CBC). This analyses different parameters of red blood cells (RBC), platelets and white blood cells/leukocytes. Some automated CBC counters present limitations due to specimen characteristics, abnormal cells or both factors. In the presence of abnormalities, the DxH 900 has a flagging system, warning the laboratory technician that something needs to be verified. In the present work, we evaluated samples from oncologic patients, presenting a population erroneously perceived as being lymphocytes. The most common explanations for this situation are RBC resistant to lysis or serum hyperbilirubinaemia.MethodsIn an attempt to solve and understand what the cause of this problem might be, we diluted our samples (1:3) and analysed the serum total bilirubin. To identify cells' abnormalities, the samples were also analysed by manual DLC counts. During the study, we also checked the different flags presented by the equipment.ResultsThe results evidenced that the major interference was due to RBC lysis resistance, corresponding to 94.7% of the cases, while hyperbilirubinaemia was only present in 73.4%. Besides, we determined that some samples with normal bilirubin levels also presented interference, suggesting that hyperbilirubinaemia was not the main cause of the error. The most recurrent flag observed was “High event rate”.ConclusionThe dilution solved all of the observed interferences. The results between diluted and manual counts showed a strong correlation, leading us to introduce dilution in our laboratory routine.
Exploring the interaction of a potent anti‐cancer drug Selumetinib with bovine serum albumin: Spectral and computational attributes
Authors: Jalan Ankita , Sangeet Satyam , Pradhan Amit Kumar , Moyon N. Shaemningwar 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThe binding of drugs to plasma proteins determines its fate within the physiological system, hence profound understanding of its interaction within the bloodstream is important to understand its pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics and thereby its therapeutic potential. In this regard, our work delineates the mechanism of interaction of Selumetinib (SEL), a potent anti‐cancer drug showing excellent effect against multiple solid tumors, with plasma protein bovine serum albumin (BSA), using methods such as absorption, steady‐state fluorescence, time‐resolved, fluorescence resonance energy transfer, Fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR), circular dichroism (CD), synchronous and 3D‐fluorescence, salt fluorescence, molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulations. The BSA fluorescence intensity was quenched with increasing concentration of SEL which indicates interactions of SEL with BSA. Stern–Volmer quenching analysis and lifetime studies indicate the involvement of dynamic quenching. However, some contributions from the static quenching mechanism could not be ruled out unambiguously. The association constant was found to be 5.34 × 105 M−1 and it has a single binding site. The Förster distance (r) indicated probable energy transmission between the BSA and SEL. The positive entropy changes and enthalpy change indicate that the main interacting forces are hydrophobic forces, also evidenced by the results of molecular modeling studies. Conformation change in protein framework was revealed from FTIR, synchronous and 3D fluorescence and CD studies. Competitive binding experiments as well as docking studies suggest that SEL attaches itself to site I (subdomain IIA) of BSA where warfarin binds. Molecular dynamic simulations indicate the stability of the SEL–BSA complex. The association energy between BSA and SEL is affected in the presence of different metals differently.
When do part‐time workers increase effectiveness? A study of food banks and the SNAP program outreach
Authors: Sharma Luv , Pekgün Pelin , Öztürk Orgül D. , Ahire Sanjay L. 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThe use of part‐time employees to support operations has been a contentious topic in the literature. While part‐time employees add cost‐effective flexibility to operations, their impact on operational outcomes has largely been documented as negative. However, there are a number of sectors (e.g., non‐profit) which rely heavily on part‐time employees, with anecdotal evidence supporting their role in improving outcomes. Through this research, we seek to shed light on these contradicting perspectives. We do so by investigating the impact of the percentage of part‐time employees in the workforce dedicated to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) outreach efforts at United States (U.S.) food banks on the effectiveness of this initiative. SNAP is the largest domestic hunger program in the U.S., assisting over 42 million individuals, and food banks play a critical role in outreach and enrollment for SNAP. We utilize data on the operational characteristics and SNAP activities of food banks that are members of the Feeding America network and U.S. Census data on the demographic characteristics of their service area. We find that an increased percentage of part‐time FTEs (full‐time equivalent) in a food bank's workforce dedicated to SNAP outreach efforts increases its effectiveness, particularly in relation to operational and contextual factors that can benefit from a more flexible workforce. Based on these findings and our review of the literature, we propose a conceptual framework on the effectiveness of part‐time employees in different settings.
Comparison of nonlinear trends and influencing factors of carbon sinks in four ecological restoration projects in China
Authors: Xu Xiaojuan , Liu Jing , Qiu Jie , Zhang Kun , Jiao Fusheng , Lin Dayi , Yang Yue , Lin Naifeng , Zou Changxin 
Published: April 2024

AbstractChina's ecological restoration projects aim to safeguard natural forests, improve the ecological environment, and achieve carbon neutrality. Previous studies at multiple scales have reported that the ecological projects contributed to enhancing carbon sinks. However, the effect of these projects on the carbon sinks has remained uncertain. Thus, we conducted a comparative analysis of nonlinear trends and influencing factors of carbon sink trends in the four ecological restoration project areas. Our findings suggested that the Pearl River shelterbelt program and middle reaches of the Yellow River shelterbelt program areas have experienced significant enhancements in ecosystem carbon sinks. The carbon sink exhibiting monotonically increasing trends and decreasing to increasing trends (positive shifts) accounted for 74.48% and 71.76% in these two shelterbelt program areas, respectively. However, less than half of the carbon sinks (41.38% and 31.80%, respectively) demonstrated monotonically increasing trends or positive shifts in the Yangtze River and Three North Shelterbelt program areas. The high background value of carbon sinks played a crucial role in the monotonically increasing trends of carbon sinks in the four ecological restoration projects. Additionally, in the Pearl River program areas, economic development and urban greening promoted the monotonically increasing trends of carbon sink. In the Yellow River program areas, CO2 fertilization, appropriate warming, and increased precipitation were helpful to promote the carbon sink with monotonically increasing trends. Moreover, the positive shifts of the carbon sinks were attributed to the implementation of these two ecological restoration projects. However, the low temperature and drought hindered the enhancement of carbon sinks in the Three North program areas, and extreme climate (flood and drought) hindered it in the Yangtze River program areas. These findings can provide a comprehensive evaluation of the effectiveness of ecological restoration projects on terrestrial ecosystems and offer practical guidelines to achieve carbon neutrality.
Bio‐Polyethylene and Polyethylene Biocomposites: An Alternative toward a Sustainable Future
Authors: Soo Xiang Yun Debbie , Muiruri Joseph Kinyanjui , Wu Wen‐Ya , Yeo Jayven Chee Chuan , Wang Suxi , Tomczak Nikodem , Thitsartarn Warintorn , Tan Beng Hoon , Wang Pei , Wei Fengxia , Suwardi Ady , Xu Jianwei , Loh Xian Jun , Yan Qingyu , Zhu Qiang 
Published: April 2024

AbstractPolyethylene (PE), a highly prevalent non‐biodegradable polymer in the field of plastics, presents a waste management issue. To alleviate this issue, bio‐based PE (bio‐PE), derived from renewable resources like corn and sugarcane, offers an environmentally friendly alternative. This review discusses various production methods of bio‐PE, including fermentation, gasification, and catalytic conversion of biomass. Interestingly, the bio‐PE production volumes and market are expanding due to the growing environmental concerns and regulatory pressures. Additionally, the production of PE and bio‐PE biocomposites using agricultural waste as filler materials, highlights the growing demand for sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics. According to previous studies, addition of ≈50% defibrillated corn and abaca fibers into bio‐PE matrix and a compatibilizer, results in the highest Young's modulus of 4.61 and 5.81 GPa, respectively. These biocomposites have potential applications in automotive, building construction, and furniture industries. Moreover, the advancement made in abiotic and biotic degradation of PE and PE biocomposites is elucidated to address their environmental impacts. Finally, the paper concludes with insights into the opportunities, challenges, and future perspectives in the sustainable production and utilization of PE and bio‐PE biocomposites. In summary, production of PE and bio‐PE biocomposites can contribute to a cleaner and sustainable future.
Ultrasonic surface acoustic wave elastography: A review of basic theories, technical developments, and medical applications
Authors: Masud Abdullah Al , Liu Jingfei 
Published: April 2024

AbstractPhysiological and pathological changes in tissues often cause changes in tissue mechanical properties, making tissue elastography an effective modality in medical imaging. Among the existing elastography methods, ultrasound elastography is of great interest due to the inherent advantages of ultrasound imaging technology, such as low cost, portability, safety, and wide availability. However, most current ultrasound elastography methods are based on the bulk shear wave; they can image deep tissues but cannot image superficial tissues. To address this challenge, ultrasonic elastography methods based on surface acoustic waves have been proposed. In this paper, we present a comprehensive review of ultrasound‐based surface acoustic wave elastography techniques, including their theoretical foundations, technical implementations, and existing medical applications. The goal is to provide a concise summary of the state‐of‐the‐art of this field, hoping to offer a reliable reference for the further development of these techniques and foster the expansion of their medical applications.
Does ejaculation have an effect on urinary flow rates?
Authors: Erkan Erbay M. , Tarhan Fatih 
Published: April 2024

AbstractIntroductionThe primary objective of this investigation is to explore the impact of ejaculation on urinary flow rates in men experiencing lower urinary tract symptoms.Materials and MethodsThis study involved the enrollment of 55 male patients who presented with lower urinary tract symptoms. An assessment encompassed components, including medical history, questionnaires related to sexual activity and lower urinary tract symptoms, bladder diary, physical examination, urinalysis, urine culture, ultrasound examination and measurements of serum prostate‐specific antigen, free flow uroflowmetry, and post‐void residual urine volume. All participants were instructed to abstain from ejaculation for 3 days before undergoing uroflowmetry (UF1). Subsequently, they were required to ejaculate. Subsequent uroflowmetry assessments were conducted at 2 to 4 h (UF2) and 48 to 50 h (UF3) after ejaculation. No further ejaculations were permitted during this timeframe.ResultsThe patients had a mean age of 50.97 ± 1.47 years. Statistically significant differences were observed in the mean values of Qmax and corrected Qmax (cQmax) between UF1 and UF2 measurements (p < 0.05). These differences were only in patients with benign prostatic enlargement (BPE) (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the number of patients with Qmax <15 mL/s showed a statistically significant difference between UF1 and UF2 measurements, specifically in the BPE group (p = 0.016).ConclusionsIn this study, we have observed a significant and temporary increase in the Qmax following ejaculation, particularly among patients with BPE. This indicates that ejaculation can potentially complicate the interpretation of uroflowmetry results. Therefore, further research is necessary to gain a more comprehensive understanding of this phenomenon.
Insight into the autoproteolysis mechanism of the RsgI9 anti‐σ factor from Clostridium thermocellum
Authors: Takayesu Allen , Mahoney Brendan J. , Goring Andrew K. , Jessup Tobie , Ogorzalek Loo Rachel R. , Loo Joseph A. , Clubb Robert T. 
Published: April 2024

AbstractClostridium thermocellum is a potential microbial platform to convert abundant plant biomass to biofuels and other renewable chemicals. It efficiently degrades lignocellulosic biomass using a surface displayed cellulosome, a megadalton sized multienzyme containing complex. The enzymatic composition and architecture of the cellulosome is controlled by several transmembrane biomass‐sensing RsgI‐type anti‐σ factors. Recent studies suggest that these factors transduce signals from the cell surface via a conserved RsgI extracellular (CRE) domain (also called a periplasmic domain) that undergoes autoproteolysis through an incompletely understood mechanism. Here we report the structure of the autoproteolyzed CRE domain from the C. thermocellum RsgI9 anti‐σ factor, revealing that the cleaved fragments forming this domain associate to form a stable α/β/α sandwich fold. Based on AlphaFold2 modeling, molecular dynamics simulations, and tandem mass spectrometry, we propose that a conserved Asn‐Pro bond in RsgI9 autoproteolyzes via a succinimide intermediate whose formation is promoted by a conserved hydrogen bond network holding the scissile peptide bond in a strained conformation. As other RsgI anti‐σ factors share sequence homology to RsgI9, they likely autoproteolyze through a similar mechanism.
Bacterial Infections
Authors: Averbuch Dina 
Published: April 2024

AbstractHCT patients are at risk for severe bacterial infection, the most frequent of them are bloodstream infections (BSI). The majority occur at the pre-engraftment period. Primary BSIs are mainly central line catheter-related (CRBSI) or mucosal barrier injury-associated. Secondary BSI accompanies site-specific infection (e.g.,Pseudomonas aeruginosapneumonia and BSI). GNB has become an increasingly common cause of BSI, and are associated with high mortality. Specifically, an increase in infections due to resistant GNB, such as ESBL Enterobacterales, carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales (CPE), MDR GNB, or difficult-to-treat (DTR) Pseudomonas aeruginosa, leads to delay in appropriate therapy and increases mortality. Empirical antibiotic therapy should be started immediately when bacterial infection is suspected. It should be based on escalation/de-escalation principles reflecting the patient’s clinical condition, prior colonization or infection with resistant bacteria, and local epidemiology. Main targeted therapy options for severe infections caused by resistant GNB include: carbapenems for ESBL Enterobacterales; meropenem-vaborbactam or ceftazidime-avibactam for KPC-producing Enterobacterales; ceftazidime-avibactam for OXA-48-like-producing Enterobacterales; aztreonam plus ceftazidime–avibactam, or cefiderocol for Metallo-β-lactamases-producing Enterobacterales; ceftolozane-tazobactam for DTRPseudomonas aeruginosa. Routine combination therapy of β-lactams with aminoglycosides/fluoroquinolone (FQ)/polymyxins for infection due to MDR GNB susceptible to β-lactam is not recommended (with a possible exception of a severe infections due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa in neutropenic patients). High-dose prolonged β-lactam infusion can maximize efficacy. Source control with CVC removal is important. Antibiotic treatment should be continued for at least 7 days until the infection is microbiologically eradicated and all clinical signs resolved, with the patient afebrile for at least 4 days. Antimicrobial stewardship aims to individualize an empirical approach to patients with suspected infection, limiting unnecessary antibiotic use, and optimizing treatment based on pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic principles. Infection control is crucial to limit the spread of MDR pathogens. Fluoroquinolone prophylaxis is controversial. Encapsulated bacteria (Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae) cause infection during the late post-engraftment period. Preventive measures include oral prophylaxis, IVIg, and vaccinations.
Statistical Methods in HCT and Cellular Therapies
Authors: Iacobelli Simona , de Wreede Liesbeth C. 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThe analysis of data describing the outcomes of patients who have received an HCT is not only fundamental to assessing the effectiveness of the treatment but can provide invaluable information on the prognostic role of disease and patient factors. Thus, the appropriate analysis and understanding of such data are of paramount importance. This document provides an overview of the main and well-established statistical methods, as well as a brief introduction of more novel techniques. More insight is provided in theEBMT Statistical Guidelines(Iacobelli 2013). Additionally, the paper by de Wreede et al. (2022) explains the most important concepts and related pitfalls in the analysis of HCT studies.
Population parameters of Drosophila larval cooperative foraging
Authors: Liao Amy , Qian Christy , Abdi Sepideh , Yee Peyton , Cursain Sean Michael , Condron Niav , Condron Barry 
Published: April 2024

AbstractCooperative foraging behavior can be advantageous when there is a common exploitable resource. By cooperating, members of the group can take advantage of the potential of increased efficiency of working together as well as equitable distribution of the product. An experimental signature of cooperative foraging is an Allee effect where at a certain number of individuals, there is a peak of fitness. What happens when there are intruders especially ones that do not contribute to any work required for foraging? Drosophila larvae secrete digestive enzymes and exodigest food. Under crowded conditions in liquid food these larvae form synchronized feeding clusters which provides a fitness benefit. A key for this synchronized feeding behavior is the visually guided alignment between adjacent larvae in a feeding cluster. Larvae who do not align their movements are excluded from the groups and subsequently lose the benefit. This may be a way of editing the group to include only known members. To test the model, the fitness benefit from cooperative behavior was further investigated to establish an Allee effect for a number of strains including those who cannot exodigest or cluster. In a standard lab vial, about 40 larvae is the optimal number for fitness. Combinations of these larvae were also examined. The expectation was that larvae who do not contribute to exodigestion are obligate cheaters and would be expelled. Indeed, obligate cheaters gain greatly from the hosts but paradoxically, so do the hosts. Clusters that include cheaters are more stable. Therefore, clustering and the benefits from it are dependent on more than just the contribution to exodigestion. This experimental system should provide a rich future model to understand the metrics of cooperative behavior.
Impact of concurrent medications on clinical outcomes of cancer patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors: analysis of Health Insurance Review and Assessment data
Authors: Hong Soojung , Lee Ju Hyun , Heo Ja Yoon , Suh Koung Jin , Kim Se Hyun , Kim Yu Jung , Kim Jee Hyun 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Medications regulating immune homeostasis and gut microbiota could affect the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). This study aimed to investigate the impact of concurrent medications on the clinical outcomes of patients with cancer receiving ICI therapy in South Korea.

Methods
We identified patients newly treated with ICI for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), urothelial carcinoma (UC), and malignant melanoma (MM) between August 2017 and June 2020 from a nationwide database in Korea. The effect of concurrent antibiotics (ATBs), corticosteroids (CSs), proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs), and opioids prescribed within 30 days before ICI initiation on the treatment duration and survival was assessed.

Results
In all, 8870 patients were included in the ICI cohort (NSCLC, 7,128; UC, 960; MM, 782). The patients were prescribed ATBs (33.8%), CSs (47.8%), PPIs (28.5%), and opioids (53.1%) at the baseline. The median overall survival durations were 11.1, 12.2, and 22.1 months in NSCLC, UC, and MM subgroups, respectively, since starting the ICI mostly as second-line (NSCLC and UC) and first-line (MM) therapy. Early progression was observed in 34.2% of the patients. Opioids and CS were strongly associated with poor survival across all cancer types. A high number of concurrent medications was associated with early progression and short survival. Opioid and CS use was associated with poor prognosis in all patients treated with ICIs. However, ATBs and PPIs had a cancer-specific effect on survival.

Conclusion
A high number of concurrent medications was associated with poor clinical outcomes.
Studies About the Effect of Halogenated Solvents on the Fluorescence Properties of 9-Aryl-Substituted Isoquinolinium Derivatives – A Case Study
Authors: Groß Philipp , Ihmels Heiko 
Published: April 2024

AbstractIt was demonstrated that 9-aryl-substituted isoquinolinium derivatives have significantly increased fluorescence quantum yields in halogenated solvents, mostly pronounced in chloroalkanes, which appears to be specific for this type of solvents. Further analysis with selected halogenated solvents revealed that the type and number of halogen substituents and the dielectric constant of the solvent have a distinct impact on the emission quantum yield. The solvent effect is explained by a solvation of the charge shift (CS) state by attractive halogen–π interactions (halogen bond), which impedes the torsional relaxation of the excited state.