bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Imaging and therapy targeting PSMA receptors for enhanced vision and precise treatment
Authors: Rasul Sazan , Korn Stephan 
Published: October 2023

SummaryIn Europe, it is estimated that more than 65,000 men die each year from the consequences of advanced and metastatic prostate cancer (PCa). Currently, approximately 3.2 million European men are living with PCa. While the majority of PCa patients have favorable outcomes, the 5‑year relative survival rate for those with metastatic PCa is only 32%. Recent advances in the diagnosis of PCa have been boosted by the introduction of the prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA), which might identify patients with the most aggressive form of the disease. Molecular imaging with positron emission tomography (PET) targeting PSMA receptors (PSMA-PET) has utterly revolutionized the diagnosis and staging of PCa; however, its application is still under debate. On the one hand, there has been little progress in recent years in surpassing the limitations of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), the backbone of metastatic PCa treatment. Adding additional systemic therapy became standard in the last few decades. Current ADT is only transiently effective, and patients eventually progress during ADT treatment, a condition known as castration-resistant PCa (CRPC). On the other hand, radioligand therapy (RLT) targeting these PSMA receptors, most commonly used in the studies [177Lu]lutetium-PSMA-617, has been available for this cancer stage for nearly a decade and has been recently incorporated into the European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines as a robust treatment option for patients with metastatic CRPC.
The Multiple Roles of Autophagy in Neural Function and Diseases
Authors: Li Yan-Yan , Qin Zheng-Hong , Sheng Rui 
Published: October 2023

AbstractAutophagy involves the sequestration and delivery of cytoplasmic materials to lysosomes, where proteins, lipids, and organelles are degraded and recycled. According to the way the cytoplasmic components are engulfed, autophagy can be divided into macroautophagy, microautophagy, and chaperone-mediated autophagy. Recently, many studies have found that autophagy plays an important role in neurological diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, neuronal excitotoxicity, and cerebral ischemia. Autophagy maintains cell homeostasis in the nervous system via degradation of misfolded proteins, elimination of damaged organelles, and regulation of apoptosis and inflammation. AMPK-mTOR, Beclin 1, TP53, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and other signal pathways are involved in the regulation of autophagy and can be used as potential therapeutic targets for neurological diseases. Here, we discuss the role, functions, and signal pathways of autophagy in neurological diseases, which will shed light on the pathogenic mechanisms of neurological diseases and suggest novel targets for therapies.
Catch me if you can – wie Adenoviren das humane Immunsystem austricksen
Authors: Aichane Khadija , Windheim Mark 
Published: October 2023

AbstractHuman adenoviruses have evolved mechanisms of immune evasion to counteract antiviral measures. The E3/49K protein of species D adenoviruses and its secreted form sec49K trigger dimerization of the receptor-like tyrosine phosphatase CD45, thereby inhibiting the activation of immune cells. Intriguingly, the design of the membrane-anchored E3/49K resembles a fishing rod with an extended disordered region used as a fishing line and two N-terminal domains as baits to optimize binding to CD45.
DNA-Protein-Crosslinks: Schaden und Schutz zugleich
Authors: Dürauer Sophie , Donsbach Maximilian , Stingele Julian 
Published: October 2023

AbstractCovalent DNA-protein crosslinks (DPCs) are generally toxic DNA lesions that must be repaired to prevent premature aging and cancer formation. However, DPCs formed by the protein HMCES are important to stabilize abasic sites during replication, thereby preventing the formation of dangerous DNA breaks. Here, we discuss the principles of HMCES-DPC formation and resolution, which encompasses both proteolytic and non-proteolytic mechanisms.
Wie de novo entstandene Proteine im Labor exprimiert werden können
Authors: Aubel Margaux , Eicholt Lars , Bornberg-Bauer Erich , Lange Andreas 
Published: October 2023

AbstractNovel proteins can arise through processes like duplication, fusion, and fission. Recently, de novo proteins originating from previously non-coding DNA, lacking homology, have been discovered in numerous genomes. Consequently, their structure and function remain largely unknown. In this review, we illustrate how chaperones can facilitate the expression of de novo proteins, making them more accessible for subsequent experimental characterization.
Mapping Geodiversity at a National Scale: the Case Study of Italy
Authors: Alberico I. , Casaburi A. , Matano F. 
Published: October 2023

AbstractIn order to assess the geodiversity of the Italian Peninsula, which covers approximately 300.000 km2, a semi-quantitative method based on the use of grids recording several indicators and indices was developed. The variety of geological, geomorphological, and pedological elements, characterizing the Italian territory, has been assessed with a two-step procedure. Firstly, the variety algorithm has been applied using grid cells with variable size, related to the spatial resolution of the input data, then the resulting variety values were averaged with a fixed cell size functional to the extent of the study area and the output scale of the geodiversity map. This procedure made it possible to preserve the spatial resolution of the input data (Digital Terrain Model, lithological and soil maps) providing as output a geodiversity map that faithfully reproduces the features of the Italian territory. In case of discrete data (rivers, lakes, glaciers, etc.), a procedure that assigns to each cell the maximum area or length values out of all its elements has been implemented. It made possible to preserve the hydrological elements that shape the landscape (e.g., the longest rivers, largest lakes, etc.) and represent important freshwater resource. An overview of the geographical distribution of geodiversity classes over the whole Italian territory has been elaborated. The resulting geodiversity map is a valuable tool for environmental planning, in particular for the identification of areas to be preserved, for the proper management of geo-resources and natural services.
Disaster vulnerability and flood management policy framework in the Himalayas
Authors: Wani Shahid Nabi , Malik Ishfaq Hussain 
Published: October 2023

AbstractThe Himalayas are one of the most disaster-prone regions in the world and have experienced an increasing number of disasters, particularly floods in recent years that have hampered the socio-economic development in the region. Flood management policies are key in mitigating and managing disasters and are an important part of disaster risk reduction. In the present study, we discuss the disaster vulnerability and policy framework in the North-Western Himalayas, with a focus on the flooding in the Kashmir Valley, which is one of the most vulnerable regions in the Himalayas. Kashmir has a long history of flooding that has affected society and the environment on a wide scale. However, flood management began at the beginning of the nineteenth century. The present work explores the primary sources to make a historical analysis of flood management in Kashmir. The study provides an in-depth analysis of the important policies and proposals for flood management in the region. It discusses the top priorities established by various flood management suggestions and examines how the focus was given to Srinagar city and the reclamation of agricultural land while neglecting other areas. The study highlights the failure of the flood management plans and why the problem of flood management persists in the Kashmir Valley. The study also discusses the vulnerability of the Kashmir Valley to floods and the resultant causes.
Regulation of T cells by myeloid-derived suppressor cells: emerging immunosuppressor in lung cancer
Authors: He Zhong-Ning , Zhang Chun-Yu , Zhao Yu-Wei , He Shu-Lin , Li Yue , Shi Bo-Lun , Hu Jia-Qi , Qi Run-Zhi , Hua Bao-Jin 
Published: October 2023

AbstractMyeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), major components maintaining the immune suppressive microenvironment in lung cancer, are relevant to the invasion, metastasis, and poor prognosis of lung cancer, through the regulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition, remodeling of the immune microenvironment, and regulation of angiogenesis. MDSCs regulate T-cell immune functions by maintaining a strong immunosuppressive microenvironment and promoting tumor invasion. This raises the question of whether reversing the immunosuppressive effect of MDSCs on T cells can improve lung cancer treatment. To understand this further, this review explores the interactions and specific mechanisms of different MDSCs subsets, including regulatory T cells, T helper cells, CD8 + T cells, natural killer T cells, and exhausted T cells, as part of the lung cancer immune microenvironment. Second, it focuses on the guiding significance confirmed via clinical liquid biopsy and tissue biopsy that different MDSC subsets improve the prognosis of lung cancer. Finally, we conclude that targeting MDSCs through action targets or signaling pathways can help regulate T-cell immune functions and suppress T-cell exhaustion. In addition, immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting MDSCs may serve as a new approach for enhancing the efficiency of immunotherapy and targeted therapy for lung cancer in the future, providing better comprehensive options for lung cancer treatment.
A critical assessment of conservation agriculture among smallholders in the Mediterranean region: adoption pathways inspired by agroecological principles
Authors: Cicek Harun , Topp Emmeline , Plieninger Tobias , Blanco-Moreno José M. , Gultekin Irfan , Mohamed Hatem Cheikh , El Gharras Oussama 
Published: October 2023

AbstractConservation agriculture (CA) is the key agricultural soil management approach for Mediterranean rainfed systems facing extreme droughts and soil degradation. Yet, CA uptake and applicability is still marginal and disputed in the Mediterranean region, where smallholder farmers are most representative. Lack of widespread adoption of CA in the Mediterranean region despite international efforts is perplexing. In order to investigate this paradox and provide solutions, we set out to examine the perceived constraints to CA implementation among farmers and stakeholders. Our approach is based on systems analysis of Mediterranean grain production systems, considering plant and livestock production, as well as sustainability and social-ecological interactions. CA promotion efforts are rarely adapted to the context of the Mediterranean region. We argue for adopting a more pragmatic and flexible approach to CA. Such an approach should be based on site-specific bio-physical and sociocultural considerations and augmented with principles of agroecology. Our review of perceived constraints allows us to suggest five pathways that could promote CA adoption in the Mediterranean across two main areas: (i) introduction of flexible, context-specific technical solutions and (ii) change of social perceptions and literacy on soil. Our five pathways aim to enhance farmers’ resilience to challenges of climate and market shocks, while integrating agroecological principles that enhance ecosystem multifunctionality. We advocate using agroecological principles to enable a more pragmatic application of CA with respect to its strict application—such as continuous no-till—to rehabilitate degraded lands, to increase water use efficiency, and to improve food security and economic well-being of communities in the Mediterranean region.
Topology uniformity pinning control for multi-agent flocking
Authors: Liu Jintao , Wu Zhonghong , Xin Qiao , Yu Minggang , Liu Lianlian 
Published: October 2023

AbstractThe optimal selection of pinning nodes for multi-agent flocking is a challenging NP-hard problem. Current pinning node selection strategies mainly rely on centrality measures of complex networks, which lack rigorous mathematical proof for effective flocking control. This paper proposes a pinning node selection strategy based on matrix eigenvalue theory. First, the effect of the pinning node on the eigenvalue of the Laplacian matrix is analyzed. Then, a synchronization index representing the topology uniformity of the multi-agent system is proposed to exert maximum influence on the system synchronizability. A practical optimal pinning node selection method based on the synchronization index is proposed and analyzed using the eigenvalue perturbation method. Finally, simulations demonstrate that the convergence rate of the system obtained using the optimal synchronizability pinning node selection method is better than that achieved with the maximum degree centrality node selection strategy.
Nonlinear relationships between Foreign Direct Investment decisions and environmental degradation in high- and middle-income countries
Authors: Caetano Rafaela Vital , Marques António Cardoso 
Published: October 2023

AbstractGlobalization, although beneficial in spreading knowledge and improving green technologies worldwide, is also considered one of the main drivers of global warming. Recent world events, such as the pandemic, with all its economic and social consequences, have exposed the external dependence of many countries, particularly the reliance of many developing countries on foreign investment. Although it contributes to economic growth, Foreign Direct Investment may also be harmful to the environment. Hence, this study analyses the impact of Foreign Direct Investment on emissions of Greenhouse Gases, Carbon Dioxide, Nitrous Oxide and Particulate Matter 2.5. A Panel Autoregressive Distributed Lag model was conducted for a group of 25 high-income and 10 middle-income countries from 1995 to 2019, allowing the analysis of short- and long-run impacts. Given the likelihood of nonlinear impacts, a Nonlinear Panel Autoregressive Distributed Lag model was also conducted to provide a more detailed understanding of the effects of expansion or contraction on the variables, and also to analyse short- and long-run impacts. The main findings suggest that electrification and energy transition away from fossil fuels to renewable energy may be crucial to limiting the polluting effect of Gross Fixed Capital Formation, Trade Openness and Foreign Direct Investment. However, it would be a mistake to simply reduce these three factors as the results reveal that it also contributes to increase pollution. Foreign Direct Investment and Trade Openness reduce environmental degradation in high-income countries and increase it in middle-income countries, except for Nitrous Oxide emissions.
First molecular analysis of wisteria vein mosaic virus in Italy: eight new variants reported in Wisteria sinensis
Authors: Pedrelli Athos , Panattoni Alessandra , Cotrozzi Lorenzo 
Published: October 2023

AbstractWisteria vein mosaic virus (WVMV) is a potyvirus infecting Wisteria spp. worldwide, making these largely used ornamental plants unattractive and even unsalable. In 2021, nine Wisteria sinensis plants in Sarzana (Liguria, Italy) showing WVMV symptoms like vein mosaic with irregular patterns, mottling, deformation and twisting margin on leaves were reported. This work describes research on symptomatic and asymptomatic leaves to confirm the identity of the virus infection. All plants tested resulted positive to WVMV. Sequencing of NIb/CP genomic region and comparison on GenBank revealed the presence of eight new genetic variants named Sar 5–12. The eight nucleotide sequences alignments revealed identity ranging between 87.13 and 99.85%. Negative selection (dN/dS < 1) was detected suggesting well adaptation in the area here examined and stability in population. Through a phylogenetic tree, WVMV isolates were grouped in four clades with high bootstrap values, two of which included the eight Italian variants here identified. Since the late 1950 and 1960s, the present study represents the first additional report of WVMV in Italy, as well as its first molecular characterization ever. Further research is required to strengthen our understanding of the movement and transmission of WVMV. Examining how virus infected plants can disseminate this pathogen could help forestall potential risks that neighbouring species may face in their environments.
Research on the teaching mode of industrial design in local universities in China: from the perspective of professional ability appreciation
Authors: Wang Han-you , Pan Qin-tao , Yu Xing-zhao 
Published: October 2023

AbstractFocusing on local non-“Double First-Class” higher colleges in China, this study aims to explore the effects of classroom teaching, integration of industry and education, classroom involvement, interdisciplinary awareness and abilities, as well as teacher-student investment, on the increment of professional abilities of industrial design students, and explore effective teaching modes. Organizing questionnaire survey data, constructing a multiple linear regression model, and using the analytical method of sheaf coefficient found that student investment has the most decisive influence on low-order and high-order professional abilities, while other variables have their focuses. Teacher investment only has a direct impact on partial high-order professional capacities. The analysis of interactive effect regression models found that the interactive effects of significant influencing variables only mutually reinforce partial high-order professional abilities. The second-order factor structural equation modeling found that the professional capacities of industrial design have a strong endogeneity. The core mission of teachers is to promote “student-centered” teaching and integration of production and education and encourage students’ investment to improve their professional ability. This study provides an empirical basis for optimizing and reconstructing the conceptual framework of low-order and high-order professional capacities in higher education.
Variability in changes in physician outpatient antibiotic prescribing from 2019 to 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Tandon Pranav , Brown Kevin A. , Daneman Nick , Langford Bradley J. , Leung Valerie , Friedman Lindsay , Schwartz Kevin L. 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Objective:
To evaluate inter-physician variability and predictors of changes in antibiotic prescribing before (2019) and during (2020/2021) the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

Methods:
We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of physicians in Ontario, Canada prescribing oral antibiotics in the outpatient setting between January 1, 2019 and December 31, 2021 using the IQVIA Xponent data set. The primary outcome was the change in the number of antibiotic prescriptions between the prepandemic and pandemic period. Secondary outcomes were changes in the selection of broad-spectrum agents and long-duration (>7 d) antibiotic use. We used multivariable linear regression models to evaluate predictors of change.

Results:
There were 17,288 physicians included in the study with substantial inter-physician variability in changes in antibiotic prescribing (median change of −43.5 antibiotics per physician, interquartile range −136.5 to −5.0). In the multivariable model, later career stage (adjusted mean difference [aMD] −45.3, 95% confidence interval [CI] −52.9 to −37.8, p < .001), family medicine (aMD −46.0, 95% CI −62.5 to −29.4, p < .001), male patient sex (aMD −52.4, 95% CI −71.1 to −33.7, p < .001), low patient comorbidity (aMD −42.5, 95% CI −50.3 to −34.8, p < .001), and high prescribing to new patients (aMD −216.5, 95% CI −223.5 to −209.5, p < .001) were associated with decreases in antibiotic initiation. Family medicine and high prescribing to new patients were associated with a decrease in selection of broad-spectrum agents and prolonged antibiotic use.

Conclusions:
Antibiotic prescribing changed throughout the COVID-19 pandemic with overall decreases in antibiotic initiation, broad-spectrum agents, and prolonged antibiotic courses with inter-physician variability. These findings present opportunities for community antibiotic stewardship interventions.
Overlapping Science in Radiation and Sulfur Mustard Exposures of Skin and Lung: Consideration of Models, Mechanisms, Organ Systems, and Medical Countermeasures: Overlapping science in radiation and sulfur mustard injuries to lung and skin
Authors: Satyamitra Merriline M. , Andres Devon K. , Bergmann Julie N. , Hoffman Corey M. , Hogdahl Thomas , Homer Mary J. , Hu Tom C. , Rios Carmen I. , Yeung David T. , DiCarlo Andrea L. 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Purpose:
To summarize presentations and discussions from the 2022 trans-agency workshop titled “Overlapping science in radiation and sulfur mustard (SM) exposures of skin and lung: Consideration of models, mechanisms, organ systems, and medical countermeasures.”

Methods:
Summary on topics includes: (1) an overview of the radiation and chemical countermeasure development programs and missions; (2) regulatory and industry perspectives for drugs and devices; 3) pathophysiology of skin and lung following radiation or SM exposure; 4) mechanisms of action/targets, biomarkers of injury; and 5) animal models that simulate anticipated clinical responses.

Results:
There are striking similarities between injuries caused by radiation and SM exposures. Primary outcomes from both types of exposure include acute injuries, while late complications comprise chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and vascular dysfunction, which can culminate in fibrosis in both skin and lung organ systems. This workshop brought together academic and industrial researchers, medical practitioners, US Government program officials, and regulators to discuss lung-, and skin- specific animal models and biomarkers, novel pathways of injury and recovery, and paths to licensure for products to address radiation or SM injuries.

Conclusions:
Regular communications between the radiological and chemical injury research communities can enhance the state-of-the-science, provide a unique perspective on novel therapeutic strategies, and improve overall US Government emergency preparedness.
Recommendations for Placement of Bleeding Control Kits in Public Spaces—A Simulation Study
Authors: Steins Krisjanis , Goolsby Craig , Grönbäck Anna-Maria , Charlton Nathan , Anderson Kevin , Dacuyan-Faucher Nicole , Prytz Erik , Andersson Granberg Tobias , Jonson Carl-Oscar 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Objective:
Bleeding control measures performed by members of the public can prevent trauma deaths. Equipping public spaces with bleeding control kits facilitates these actions. We modeled a mass casualty incident to investigate the effects of public bleeding control kit location strategies.

Methods:
We developed a computer simulation of a bomb exploding in a shopping mall. We used evidence and expert opinion to populate the model with parameters such as the number of casualties, the public’s willingness to aid, and injury characteristics. Four alternative placement strategies of public bleeding control kits in the shopping mall were tested: co-located with automated external defibrillators (AEDs) separated by 90-second walking intervals, dispersed throughout the mall at 10 locations, located adjacent to 1 exit, located adjacent to 2 exits.

Results:
Placing bleeding control kits at 2 locations co-located with AEDs resulted in the most victims surviving (18.2), followed by 10 kits dispersed evenly throughout the mall (18.0). One or 2 kit locations placed at the mall’s main exits resulted in the fewest surviving victims (15.9 and 16.1, respectively).

Conclusions:
Co-locating bleeding control kits with AEDs at 90-second walking intervals results in the best casualty outcomes in a modeled mass casualty incident in a shopping mall.