bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Connectivity and fragment size drive plant dispersal and persistence traits in forest steppe fragments
Authors: Szitár Katalin , Tölgyesi Csaba , Deák Balázs , Gallé Róbert , Korányi Dávid , Batáry Péter 
Published: May 2023

IntroductionLand use changes have seriously fragmented grasslands leading to extensive biodiversity loss worldwide. Habitat fragmentation affects grasslands at both local and landscape scales, adversely affecting the probability of species colonisation and extinction. In our study, we addressed the effects of fragment size and landscape-scale habitat connectivity on the vegetation composition in two grassland types, i.e., loess steppe fragments (situated on kurgans) and sand steppe fragments of the Pannonian forest steppe region.MethodsWe collected frequency data on vascular plant species in 12 1 m × 1 m quadrats in altogether 60 fragments along a connectivity gradient in sand steppes and loess steppe fragments. We analysed whether habitat specialists, generalists and exotic species were affected by the level of fragmentation based on species richness and traits related to local persistence (life span, clonality and soil seed bank type) and dispersal (dispersal strategy and seed mass) in the two grassland types using linear mixed-effects models.ResultsBased on our results, both fragment size and landscape-scale connectivity were important in shaping the trait composition of the vegetation. We observed more fragmentation effects in generalist than in specialist species. We found that isolation resulted in fewer specialist species with autochorous dispersal strategy in loess steppe fragments, but, at the same time, also fewer exotics. Isolated loess steppe fragments harboured fewer generalist species with persistent seed bank. Large loess steppe fragments supported more wind-dispersed species than smaller ones. In isolated sand steppe fragments, generalists were more frequent with endozoochorous dispersal strategy and without clonal propagation. Life span, clonal propagation and seed mass did not depend on the level of fragmentation in the two grassland types.DiscussionOur results imply that both sand and loess steppe fragments can rely to some extent on the persistence of clonal perennial specialist and generalist species in small and isolated patches to mitigate fragmentation effects. In conclusion, these processes should be supported by the preservation of large fragments, increase of habitat connectivity combined with targeted management of exotic species.
Relationship between histone demethylase LSD family and development and prognosis of gastric cancer
Authors: Dong Liyan , Zhu Jiaxing , Deng Anyi , Wei Junping , Li Jiawei , Mao Xinru , Jia Zhenghu 
Published: May 2023

Objectiveto elucidate the correlation between histone demethylase and gastric cancerResearch objecthistone demethylase and gastric cancerResultsAs one of the important regulatory mechanisms in molecular biology and epigenetics, histone modification plays an important role in gastric cancer including downstream gene expression regulation and epigenetics effect. Both histone methyltransferase and histone demethylases are involved in the formation and maintaining different of histone methylation status, which in turn through a variety of vital molecules and signaling pathways involved in the recognition of histone methylation modification caused by the downstream biological process, eventually participate in the regulation of chromatin function, and with a variety of important physiological activities, especially closely related to the occurrence of gastric cancer and embryonic development.ConclusionThis paper intends to review the research progress in this field from the aspects of histone methylation modification and the protein structure, catalytic mechanism and biological function of the important histone demethylases LSD1 and LSD2, in order to provide the theoretical reference for further understanding and exploration of histone demethylases in development and prognosis of gastric cancer.
Risk factors and characteristics influencing humoral response to COVID-19 vaccination in patients after allogeneic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Hütter-Krönke Marie Luise , Neagoie Adela , Blau Igor Wolfgang , Wais Verena , Vuong Lam , Gantner Andrea , Ahn Johann , Penack Olaf , Schnell Jacqueline , Nogai Klaus Axel , Eberspächer Bettina , Saadati Maral , Benner Axel , Bullinger Lars , Döhner Hartmut , Bunjes Donald , Sala Elisa 
Published: May 2023

IntroductionVaccination against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is approved and recommended for immunocompromised patients such as patients after allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT). Since infections represent a relevant cause of transplant related mortality we analyzed the advent of immunization to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in a bicentric population of allogeneic transplanted patients.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed data of allo-SCT recipients in two German transplantation centers for safety and serologic response after two and three SARS-CoV-2 vaccinations. Patients received mRNA vaccines or vector-based vaccines. All patients were monitored for antibodies against SARS-CoV2-spike protein (anti-S-IgG) with an IgG ELISA assay or an EIA Assay after two and three doses of vaccination.ResultsA total of 243 allo-SCT patients underwent SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. The median age was 59 years (range 22-81). While 85% of patients received two doses of mRNA vaccines, 10% had vector-based vaccines and 5% received a mixed vaccination. The two vaccine doses were well tolerated with only 3% patients developing a reactivation of graft versus host disease (GvHD). Overall, 72% of patients showed a humoral response after two vaccinations. In the multivariate analysis age at time of allo-SCT (p=0.0065), ongoing immunosuppressive therapy (p= 0.029) and lack of immune reconstitution (CD4-T-cell counts &lt;200/μl, p&lt; 0.001) were associated with no response. Sex, intensity of conditioning and the use of ATG showed no influence on seroconversion. Finally, 44 out of 69 patients that did not respond after the second dose received a booster and 57% (25/44) showed a seroconversion.DiscussionWe showed in our bicentric allo-SCT patient cohort, that a humoral response could be achieve after the regular approved schedule, especially for those patients who underwent immune reconstitution and were free from immunosuppressive drugs. In over 50% of the initial non-responders after 2-dose vaccination, a seroconversion can be achieved by boostering with a third dose.
Reduced immunogenicity of a live Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium vaccine in aged mice
Authors: Allen Jessica C. , Toapanta Franklin R. , Baliban Scott M. , Sztein Marcelo B. , Tennant Sharon M. 
Published: May 2023

IntroductionNon-typhoidal Salmonella (NTS) is responsible for a high burden of foodborne infections and deaths worldwide. In the United States, NTS infections are the leading cause of hospitalizations and deaths due to foodborne illnesses, and older adults (≥65 years) are disproportionately affected by Salmonella infections. Due to this public health concern, we have developed a live attenuated vaccine, CVD 1926 (I77 ΔguaBA ΔclpP ΔpipA ΔhtrA), against Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium, a common serovar of NTS. Little is known about the effect of age on oral vaccine responses, and due to the decline in immune function with age, it is critical to evaluate vaccine candidates in older age groups during early product development.MethodsIn this study, adult (six-to-eight-week-old) and aged (18-month-old) C57BL/6 mice received two doses of CVD 1926 (109 CFU/dose) or PBS perorally, and animals were evaluated for antibody and cell-mediated immune responses. A separate set of mice were immunized and then pre-treated with streptomycin and challenged orally with 108 CFU of wild-type S. Typhimurium SL1344 at 4 weeks postimmunization.ResultsCompared to PBS-immunized mice, adult mice immunized with CVD 1926 had significantly lower S. Typhimurium counts in the spleen, liver, and small intestine upon challenge. In contrast, there were no differences in bacterial loads in the tissues of vaccinated versus PBS aged mice. Aged mice exhibited reduced Salmonella-specific antibody titers in the serum and feces following immunization with CVD 1926 compared to adult mice. In terms of T cell responses (T-CMI), immunized adult mice showed an increase in the frequency of IFN-γ- and IL-2-producing splenic CD4 T cells, IFN-γ- and TNF-α-producing Peyer’s Patch (PP)-derived CD4 T cells, and IFN-γ- and TNF-α-producing splenic CD8 T cells compared to adult mice administered PBS. In contrast, in aged mice, T-CMI responses were similar in vaccinated versus PBS mice. CVD 1926 elicited significantly more PP-derived multifunctional T cells in adult compared to aged mice.ConclusionThese data suggest that our candidate live attenuated S. Typhimurium vaccine, CVD 1926, may not be sufficiently protective or immunogenic in older humans and that mucosal responses to live-attenuated vaccines decrease with increasing age.
Preparation of terminal blend/ grafting activated crumb rubber composite modified asphalt based on response surface methodology
Authors: Xie Juan , Zhao Xucheng , Zhang Yongning , Yu Fan , Luo Haochen , Chen Xueru , He Wen 
Published: May 2023

Recycling waste tires, crushing them into crumb rubber (CR) and adding them to asphalt can effectively improve the performance and prolong the service life of asphalt pavement. However, the crumb rubber modified asphalt (CRMA) prepared by aforementioned process is prone to segregation during storage and transportation. The terminal blend rubber asphalt (TB) prepared with fine rubber powder by high-speed shearing at high temperature for long time, which effectively improves the storage stability and working performance of crumb rubber modified asphalt, but reduces the high-temperature performance. In this study, grafting activated crumb rubber (GACR) was incorporated into TB to improve its high temperature performance without impairing storage stability. Using shearing temperature, shearing time and grafting activated crumb rubber content as influencing factors, the response surface method (RSM) was carried out to optimize the preparation process. The results indicated that 180°C was a critical temperature, and the swelling of crumb rubber dominated with the temperature below it, but the desulfurization prevailed with the temperature above it. The extension of time favored the swelling of crumb rubber at low temperature but promoted desulfurization at high temperature. With the increase of crumb rubber content, the high temperature performance of modified asphalt improved whereas the storage stability deteriorated. According to the determination of response values and the prediction of optimal values, the suitable preparation conditions and parameters were recommended as shearing temperature of 190°C, shearing time of 90 min, and GACR content of 15%. The composite modified asphalt prepared through the optimized process showed good high temperature stability and storage stability.
Anesthesia and analgesia for experimental craniotomy in mice and rats: a systematic scoping review comparing the years 2009 and 2019
Authors: King Hannah , Reiber Maria , Philippi Vanessa , Stirling Helen , Aulehner Katharina , Bankstahl Marion , Bleich André , Buchecker Verena , Glasenapp Aylina , Jirkof Paulin , Miljanovic Nina , Schönhoff Katharina , von Schumann Lara , Leenaars Cathalijn , Potschka Heidrun 
Published: May 2023

Experimental craniotomies are a common surgical procedure in neuroscience. Because inadequate analgesia appears to be a problem in animal-based research, we conducted this review and collected information on management of craniotomy-associated pain in laboratory mice and rats. A comprehensive search and screening resulted in the identification of 2235 studies, published in 2009 and 2019, describing craniotomy in mice and/or rats. While key features were extracted from all studies, detailed information was extracted from a random subset of 100 studies/year. Reporting of perioperative analgesia increased from 2009 to 2019. However, the majority of studies from both years did not report pharmacologic pain management. Moreover, reporting of multimodal treatments remained at a low level, and monotherapeutic approaches were more common. Among drug groups, reporting of pre- and postoperative administration of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, opioids, and local anesthetics in 2019 exceeded that of 2009. In summary, these results suggest that inadequate analgesia and oligoanalgesia are persistent issues associated with experimental intracranial surgery. This underscores the need for intensified training of those working with laboratory rodents subjected to craniotomies.Systematic review registrationhttps://osf.io/7d4qe.
Impact of hospital characteristics on implementation of a Pediatric Early Warning System in resource-limited cancer hospitals
Authors: Abutineh Farris , Graetz Dylan E. , Muniz-Talavera Hilmarie , Ferrara Gia , Puerto-Torres Maria , Chen Yichen , Gillipelli Srinithya R. , Elish Paul , Gonzalez-Ruiz Alejandra , Alfonso Carreras Yvania , Alvarez Shillel , Arce Cabrera Daniela , Arguello Vargas Deiby , Armenta Cruz Miriam , Barra Camila , Calderon Sotelo Patricia , Carpio Zulma , Chavez Rios Mayra , Covarrubias Daniela , de Leon Vasquez Lucy , Diaz Coronado Rosdali , Fing Soto Ever Amilcar , Gomez-Garcia Wendy , Hernandez Cinthia , Juarez Tobias María Susana , Leon Esmeralda , Loeza Oliva Jose de Jesus , Mendez Alejandra , Miller Kenia , Montalvo Cozar Erika , Negroe Ocampo Natalia del Carmen , Penafiel Eulalia , Pineda Estuardo , Rios Ligia , Rodriguez Ordonez Esperanza , Soto Chavez Veronica , Devidas Meenakshi , Agulnik Asya 
Published: May 2023

BackgroundPediatric Early Warning Systems (PEWS) aid in identification of deterioration in hospitalized children with cancer but are underutilized in resource-limited settings. Proyecto EVAT is a multicenter quality improvement (QI) collaborative in Latin America to implement PEWS. This study investigates the relationship between hospital characteristics and time required for PEWS implementation.MethodsThis convergent mixed-methods study included 23 Proyecto EVAT childhood cancer centers; 5 hospitals representing quick and slow implementers were selected for qualitative analysis. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 71 stakeholders involved in PEWS implementation. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and translated to English, then coded using a priori and novel codes. Thematic content analysis explored the impact of hospital characteristics and QI experience on time required for PEWS implementation and was supplemented by quantitative analysis exploring the relationship between hospital characteristics and implementation time.ResultsIn both quantitative and qualitative analysis, material and human resources to support PEWS significantly impacted time to implementation. Lack of resources produced various obstacles that extended time necessary for centers to achieve successful implementation. Hospital characteristics, such as funding structure and type, influenced PEWS implementation time by determining their resource-availability. Prior hospital or implementation leader experience with QI, however, helped facilitate implementation by assisting implementers predict and overcome resource-related challenges.ConclusionsHospital characteristics impact time required to implement PEWS in resource-limited childhood cancer centers; however, prior QI experience helps anticipate and adapt to resource challenges and more quickly implement PEWS. QI training should be a component of strategies to scale-up use of evidence-based interventions like PEWS in resource-limited settings.
Overall survival and cancer-specific survival were improved in local treatment of metastatic prostate cancer
Authors: Miao Qi , Wei Zhihao , Liu Chenchen , Ye Yuzhong , Cheng Gong , Song Zhengshuai , Chen Kailei , Zhang Yunxuan , Chen Jiawei , Yue Changjie , Ruan Hailong , Zhang Xiaoping 
Published: May 2023

BackgroundFor metastatic prostate cancer (mPCa), radical prostatectomy (RP) and radiation therapy (RT) may improve overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS). Compared with RT, RP shows significant advantages in improving patient outcomes. External beam radiation therapy (EBRT) even slightly elevates CSM with no statistical difference in OS compared with no local treatment (NLT).ObjectiveTo evaluate OS and CSS after local treatment (LT) (including RP and RT) versus NLT in mPCa.Design, setting, and participantsWithin the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database (2000-2018), 20098 patients with metastatic prostate cancer were selected in this study, of which 19433 patients had no local treatment, 377 patients with radical prostate treatment, and 288 patients with RT.Outcome measurements and statistical analysisMultivariable competing risks regression analysis after propensity score matching (PSM) was used to calculate CSM. Multivariable Cox regression analysis was used to identify the risk factors. Kaplan-Meier methods were used to calculate OS.Results and limitationsA total of 20098 patients were included: NLT (n = 19433), RP (n=377) and RT (n=288). In a competing risk regression analysis after PSM (ratio 1:1), RP resulted in a significantly lower CSM (hazard ratio [HR] 0.36, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.29-0.45) than NLT, while RT showed a slightly lower CSM (HR 0.77, 95% CI 0.63-0.95). In a competing risk regression analysis after PSM (ratio 1:1), RP led to a lower CSM (HR 0.56, 95% CI 0.41-0.76) versus RT. As for all-cause mortality (ACM), RP (HR 0.37, 95% CI 0.31-0.45) and RT (HR 0.66, 95% CI 0.56-0.79). also showed a downward trend. In terms of OS, RP and RT significantly improved the survival probability compared with NLT, with the effect of RP being more pronounced. Obviously, older age, Gleason scores ≥8, AJCC T3-T4 stage, AJCC N1, AJCC M1b-M1c were all associated with higher CSM (P &lt;0.05). The same results held true for ACM. The limitation of this article is that it is not possible to assess the effect of differences in systemic therapy on CSM in mPCa patients and clinical trials are needed to verify the results.ConclusionsFor patients with mPCa, both RP and RT are beneficial to patients, and the efficacy of RP is better than RT from the perspective of CSM and ACM. Older age, higher gleason scores and the more advanced AJCC TNM stage all put patients at higher risk of dying.Patient summaryA large population-based cancer database showed that in addition to first-line therapy (hormonal treatment), RP and radiotherapy can also benefit patients with mPCa.
Mendelian randomization to explore the direct or mediating associations between socioeconomic status and lung cancer
Authors: Wu Hong , Yang Jing , Wang Hui , Li Lei 
Published: May 2023

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to verify whether there are direct or mediated causal associations between socioeconomic status and lung cancer.MethodsPooled statistics were obtained from corresponding genome-wide association studies. The inverse-variance weighted, weighted median, MR−Egger, MR-PRESSO and contamination-mixture methods were used as supplements to Mendelian randomization (MR) statistical analysis. Cochrane’s Q value and the MR−Egger intercept were used for sensitivity analysis.ResultsIn the univariate MR analysis, household income and education had protective effects on overall lung cancer (income: P = 5.46×10-4; education: P = 4.79×10-7) and squamous cell lung cancer (income: P = 2.67×10-3; education: P = 1.42×10-10). Smoking and BMI had adverse effects on overall lung cancer (smoking: P = 2.10×10-7; BMI: P = 5.67×10-4) and squamous cell lung cancer (smoking: P = 5.02×10-6; BMI: P = 2.03×10-7). Multivariate MR analysis found that smoking and education were independent risk factors for overall lung cancer (smoking: P = 1.96×10-7; education: P = 3.11×10-3), while smoking was an independent risk factor for squamous cell lung cancer (P = 2.35×10-6). Smoking, education, and household income mediate the effect of BMI on overall lung cancer (smoking 50.0%, education 49.2%, income 25.3%) and squamous cell lung cancer (smoking 34.8%, education 30.8%, income 21.2%). Smoking, education, and BMI mediate the effect of income on overall lung cancer (smoking 13.9%, education 54.8%, BMI 9.4%) and squamous cell lung cancer (smoking 12.6%, education 63.3%, BMI 11.6%). Smoking, BMI, and income mediate the effect of education on squamous cell lung cancer (smoking 24.0%, BMI 6.2%, income 19.4%).ConclusionIncome, education, BMI, and smoking are causally associated with both overall lung cancer and squamous cell lung cancer. Smoking and education are independent association factors for overall lung cancer, while smoking is an independent association factor for squamous cell lung cancer. Smoking and education also play important mediating roles in overall lung cancer and squamous cell lung cancer. No causal relationship was found between multiple risk factors associated with socioeconomic status and lung adenocarcinoma.
Correction of narrow nostril deformity secondary to cleft lip: indications for different surgical methods and a retrospective study
Authors: Wei Hongpu , Xu Xiaofeng , Wan Teng , Yang Yusheng , Zhang Yong , Wu Yilai , Liang Yun 
Published: May 2023

BackgroundCleft lip and/or palate (CLP) can lead to severe nasolabial deformities that significantly affect the appearance of the patient. Among all types of nasolabial deformities, narrow nostril deformities are the most troublesome, causing poor and unstable surgical outcomes. The purpose of this study was to develop an algorithm for surgical method selection for revision of narrow nostril deformities secondary to CLP based on retrospective clinical data.Materials and methodsPatients with narrow nostril deformities secondary to CLP were enrolled in the study. Before surgery, patients' clinical data were collected and the width of the nasal floor and the length of the alar rim were measured. Surgical methods were determined according to the measurements. After surgery, a nostril retainer was applied for 6 months to consolidate and maintain the nostril shape. The surgical method and postsurgical changes were recorded for the final summary of the algorithm to select surgical methods for narrow nostril deformities.ResultsThe data from 9 patients were analyzed. According to the width of the nasal floor and the length of the alar rim, correct surgical methods were determined. Four patients received nasolabial skin flaps to widen the soft tissue of the nasal floor. Three patients received upper lip scar tissue flaps to treat the narrow nasal floor. For the short alar rim, free alar composite tissue flap or narrowing of the nostril of the noncleft side was recommended.ConclusionThe width of the nasal floor and the length of the alar rim are critical elements to consider when selecting the correct surgical method for revising narrow nostril deformities secondary to CLP. The proposed algorithm provides a reference for selecting surgical methods in future clinical practice.