bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geology and Geochemical Characterization of Basement Rocks Around Burumburum Area North Central Basement Complex Nigeria
Authors: Lukman Lawal Mohammed , Najime Tavershima , Ogunleye Paul Olusegun , Magaji Shehu , Caleb Nyajon Kubuza
Published: March 2024

The geology and the geochemical characterization of rocks around Burumburum area north central basement complex of Nigeria was studied. Twelve (12) rocks samples were prepared for petrographic studies through a standard procedure while thirty (30) whole rocks samples were analyzed using X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) and Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry(ICP-MS). The result of the field investigation revealed that the study area is underlain by migmatites, gneisses, biotite microgranites, fine grained biotite granites, medium grained biotite granites, porphyritic biotite-hornblende granites, granodiorites, syenites, diorites, dolerites, quartzite, pegmatites and aplites. The geochemical characterizations of the granites, granodiorites, syenites based on Na2O/K2O versus SiO2 showed acidic compositions while diorites and dolerites are intermediate to basic compositions. The granites, granodiorites, syenites, diorites and dolerites are generally peraluminous (ASI>1.1) to metaluminous (ASI≤1). The granitic rocks, diorites, dolerites and syenites plotted mainly in shoshonite series while the granodiorites occur in High-K calc-alkaline fields. The granitic rocks, syenites, diorite and dolerites based on A/CNK versus SiO2 are of I-type while granodiorites are of S-type. The multi-elements discrimination trends for granites, granodiorites, syenites, diorites and dolerites revealed relative enrichment in Large Ion Lithophile Elements (LILE: Ba, La, Rb, and Th and depletion in High Field Strength Elements (HFSE: Nb, P, Ti and Sr) which indicates crustal contamination of magma. The enrichment in the light rare earth element (LREE) relative to heavy rare earth element (HREE) for granodiorites, fine grained biotite granites, medium grained biotite granites (except medium grained biotite granites S12 and S14 with positive Eu), porphyritic biotite-hornblende granites and syenites with negative Eu anomaly suggest moderate to high degree of fractionation. The enrichment in light rare earth element (LREE) for diorites and dolerites relative to moderate to flat HREE with weak negative Eu anomaly indicates low degree of fractionation. The Y+Nb vs Rb, Y vs Nb, Ta + Yb vs Rb and Yb vs Ta tectonic discrimination diagram revealed that granites and syenites plotted mainly within volcanic arc granite, syn-collisional granite and in the within plate granites fields, the granodiorites clearly plotted in the within the plate granites field. The tectonic ternary molecular proportions MgO – FeOt – Al2O3 revealed that dolerites and diorites plotted mainly in the spreading center island field.
A Hidden Barrier to Diversification? Performance Recognition Penalties for Incumbent Workers in Male-Dominated Occupations
Authors: Meuris Jirs , Merluzzi Jennifer
Published: March 2024

Responding to persistent gender inequity, organizations have adopted diversity initiatives to promote women’s representation in traditionally male-dominated occupations. Although studies have identified challenges to these initiatives for women entering occupations, we uncover a performance recognition penalty for incumbent workers originating from the process of occupational diversification. As women incrementally enter a male-dominated occupation, a conflict arises between the changing gender composition at the work-unit level and the masculine “ideal worker” prototype embedded in the occupation. We propose that this conflict will lower the performance expectations of the work unit, decreasing the individual likelihood of performance recognition for each worker in the unit. Using detailed panel data on police officers, we found that an officer’s individual likelihood of being nominated for a performance award consistently declined when their police unit proportionately increased in women officers. Both men and women managers enacted this penalty, with men managers penalizing men subordinates more than women subordinates. This pattern remained for awards recognizing exceptional performance, regardless of gender-typing of the unit or its work tasks, and considering officer tenure and attrition from the unit. Our findings offer novel insights into the challenge of diversifying male-dominated occupations.
Interactive control algorithm for shoulder-amputated prosthesis and object based on reinforcement learning
Authors: Li Baojiang , Ye Haiyan , Guo Yuting , Wang Haiyan , Qiu Shengjie , Bai Jibo
Published: March 2024

As a prosthesis made to compensate for the residual loss of the amputee’s limb, the shoulder disarticulation upper limb prosthesis replaces the missing arm function of the shoulder amputee to a certain extent. However, the current upper limb prosthesis mainly interacts with the outside world through the prosthetic hand for grasping and gripping, and the interaction between other parts and the environment is often neglected, which is not in line with the use habits of the human arm. To address this problem, this paper proposes a reinforcement learning–based method for controlling the forearm interaction of a shoulder-disconnected upper limb prosthesis, and analyzes and solves the forces during the interaction, reducing the impact of uncertainty on interaction actions and accelerating training while ensuring the stability of handheld items. We evaluated the performance of the control method during the interaction between the upper limb prosthesis and the external environment through simulation experiments. After the training, the bionic arm was able to push the object into the target range for different objects and pushing distance requirements, which showed the good control effect of the method. Also, the control method can be applied to improve the interaction between the robotic arm and the environment.
Clinical Evaluation of Curative Effect of SRM-IV Treatment System for Treating Refractory Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo
Authors: Li Yanan , Gao Yali , Liu Hui , Jia Weihua
Published: March 2024

Objective: This study aimed to explore the clinical characteristics of the automatic vestibular function therapy system (SRM-IV) fully automated benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) diagnosis and treatment system in the treatment of refractory BPPV and evaluate the clinical effect of reduction therapy. Methods: The clinical data of 39 patients with refractory BPPV who were admitted to our hospital’s department of neurology from January 2020 to May 2022 were analyzed retrospectively. Results: Eighteen, 14, and 5 patients were cured after 3, 4, and 5 reduction treatments, respectively, with the SRM-IV vertigo diagnosis and treatment system. Another 2 patients were unable to recover through canalith repositioning procedure, although they improved after alternating between manual repositioning and Brandt-Daroff habituation training. Conclusions: Most patients with refractory BPPV were cured after canalith repositioning procedure. The causes of intractability might involve many different aspects. Longer disease history and poor otolith mobility are also one of the reasons for this difficulty.
Parental psychological control and emotional well-being among emerging adults: The moderating role of parent-oriented self-construals
Authors: Shi Zeyi , Qu Yang , Wang Qian , Li Yan
Published: March 2024

It has been well documented that parental psychological control is detrimental to child and adolescent development. Yet, when entering emerging adulthood, the centrality of relationships with parents in youth’s lives may differ across individuals as well as cultures, making both cross- and within-cultural variations in the implications of parental psychological control for emerging adults’ emotional well-being worth exploration. Therefore, this research examined the relations from parental psychological control to youth’s emotional well-being among emerging adults from two cultures, and the moderating role of youth’s parent-oriented interdependent self-construals (i.e., the extent to which youth view their relationships with parents as self-defining) in these relations within each culture. A cross-cultural study was conducted among European American and Hong Kong Chinese college students in the United States and China, respectively ( N = 276; 68.1% females; mean age = 20.39 years, SD = 1.33). It was found that youth’s perceived parental psychological control related to their dampened emotional well-being to a similar extent in both cultures. Moreover, these relations were moderated by youth’s parent-oriented self-construals similarly in both cultures, such that the negative associations between youth’s perceived parental psychological control and their emotional well-being were significant only among youth with high (vs low) levels of parent-oriented self-construals. The findings demonstrate the negative implications of parental psychological control for youth’s emotional well-being during emerging adulthood, and suggest that youth’s parent-oriented self-construals may amplify such implications.
“Belief Initiates and Guides Action—Or it Does Nothing”: An Exploration of the Political Functions of Watching and Reading Dystopian Fiction
Authors: Donstrup Mayte
Published: March 2024

This article addresses the question of how dystopian fiction can produce civic and ideological connections among audiences. To this end, we have drawn from different theoretical perspectives on public connectivity to show how audience involvement with fictional entertainment can forge clear links with the political sphere. In short, we offer a qualitative reception study that has yielded six features of dystopias: cognition, rejection of socially negative themes, warning, speculation, ideology, and narcosis. These features are empirically grounded in extensive qualitative research. Finally, based on the participants’ responses, we have proposed a specific reception strategy for the dystopian genre: dystopian imaginative engagement.
Morin loaded mesoporous molecular sieves as novel devices to the potential treatment of tumor pathologies
Authors: Montiel Schneider María Gabriela , Martín María Julia , Cuello Natalia , Favatela María Florencia , Gentili Claudia , Elias Verónica , Eimer Griselda , Lassalle Verónica
Published: March 2024

Morin is an antioxidant and anticancer flavonoid, extracted from natural sources, that may exert beneficial effects for several pathologies. Despite this, the administration of morin represents a challenge due to its low aqueous solubility. Mesoporous silica materials have emerged as biocompatible tools for drug delivery, as their pore size can be modulated for maximum surface area to volume ratio. In this contribution, we evaluate the ability of iron-modified mesoporous materials, for morin loading and controlled delivery. The SBA-15 and MCM-41 sieves were synthesized and modified with iron (metal content 4.02 and 6.27 % wt, respectivily). Characterization by transmission electron microscopy, XRD and UV-Vis revealed adequate pore size and agglomerates of very small metallic nanospecies (nanoclusters), without larger iron oxide nanoparticles. FT-IR spectra confirmed the presence of silanol groups in the solid hosts, which can interact with different groups present in morin molecules. SBA-15 materials were more efficient in terms of morin loading capacity (LC) due to their larger pore diameter. LC was more than 35% for SBA-15 materials when adsorptions studies were carried out with 9 mg of drug. Antioxidant activity were assayed by using DPPH test. Free iron materials presented a significate improvement as antioxidants after morin incorporation, reaching a scavenging activity of almost a 90%. On the other hand, in iron modified mesoporous materials, the presence of morin did not affect the scavenging activity. The results could be related with the formation of a complex between the flavonoid and the iron. Finally, biosafety studies using normal epithelial cells revealed that neither the loaded nor the unloaded materials exerted toxicity, even at doses of 1 mg/ml. These findings expand knowledge about mesoporous materials as suitable carriers of flavonoids with the aim of improving therapies for a wide range of pathologies.
Multi-criteria structural optimization of a hood inner structure using machine learning technique
Authors: Rostami Pooya , Afshar Mohammad , Jahangirpour Milad , Sayar Hassan , Arjmandi Nima Sattar
Published: March 2024

This article presents an efficient multi-criteria structural optimization process based on machine learning for shape and size optimization of the hood inner. For this purpose, a low dimensional parameterization based on two-dimensional mapping and dimensionality reduction is used to decrease the number of design variables. There are many design parameters to be considered for designing this structure. In this study, the effect of three important criteria consisting of head injury, eigenfrequency, and static load were analyzed. A full vehicle finite element model is prepared for a newly developed product because head injury analysis requires a full vehicle model due to contact with the inner components of the engine compartment. Then, an experimental study is performed based on the real test scenario for model verification. A new rating method for analyzing the head injury criteria evaluated in different points is proposed and different machine learning techniques are compared in the approximation of the objective function. Finally, the problem is solved as both single and multi-objective optimization problems. Results present considerable improvement in accuracy and efficiency in the identified structure while the method has a low computational cost and the implementation is not difficult.
Energy price shocks and stock market volatility in an energy-importing country
Authors: Son Jaemin , Ryu Doojin
Published: March 2024

We examine volatility dynamics in the Korean market using heterogeneous autoregressive models with exogenous covariates. The COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia–Ukraine War have caused substantial fluctuations in energy prices. We assess how these energy shocks affect stock market-implied volatility in Korea, a representative energy-importing country. During the pre-pandemic period, domestic and U.S. market factors affect Korea's volatility dynamics, whereas crude oil and natural gas futures prices have little explanatory power for these dynamics. In contrast, during the pandemic (war), oil (natural gas) futures prices become the key explanatory variable, and other market factors lose their explanatory power.
Same Game, Different Participation in Nigeria: A qualitative study of (2006) National Gender Policy
Authors: Gbenga Owoeye , Michael Aleyomi , Ogor-Igbosuah Ngozi Bridget , Samson Babatunde
Published: March 2024

Equal participation in politics are a goal of democracy, independent of gender, race, or ethnicity. This essay contends that if these values are not given top priority and prominence in society, democracy will have failed. By examining the opinions of participants, this study assesses the implementation of the 2006 National Gender Policy in Nigeria. To learn how participants, assess the policy’s execution since it was created, the research employs a qualitative methodology.

The results show that sexism, illiteracy, and a lack of strong government support are the main barriers to full implementation of the national gender policy. The policy implementation framework is hindered, as evidenced by the participants’ experiences, raising questions about its efficacy in promoting gender equality. In order to accomplish the goals of the policy, the government and other players will need to provide better support, raise awareness of the issue, and make firmer promises.

The implications of these findings are examined within the social learning theory, which suggests that behavior is learned from the environment, and that people adapt by observing the consequences of their actions and the actions of others. The research reveals that social learning is critical in the implementation of gender policies, but the limited application of the policy undermines its ability to promote change. Therefore, this paper argues that there is an urgent need for comprehensive action and policy reform, aimed at addressing the limitations identified and ensuring gender equity in Nigeria.
Engaging a Team of Rivals to Address the Problem of Gun Violence
Authors: Sparks Jayne
Published: March 2024

Gun violence in the United States is a serious problem. Addressing the problem will require not only strong leadership but also a unique approach. One such approach was utilized by U.S. President Abraham Lincoln, who assembled a “Team of Rivals” with positions different than his own that provided helpful perspective in finding solutions to the problems of the time. This article applies the team of rivals approach to the problem of gun violence.
Three-year clinical course after fluoropolymer-based drug-eluting stent implantation for femoropopliteal lesions
Authors: Iida Osamu , Takahara Mitsuyoshi , Soga Yoshimitsu , Yamaoka Terutoshi , Fujihara Masahiko , Kawasaki Daizo , Ichihashi Shigeo , Sakata Yasushi , Mano Toshiaki , Higuchi Yoshiharu
Published: March 2024

Background:

Although the 1-year clinical outcomes of fluoropolymer-based drug-eluting stents (FP-DES) were favorable for the treatment of real-world femoropopliteal lesions in symptomatic peripheral artery disease (PAD), their performance beyond 1 year remained unknown. The current study determined the 3-year clinical course of FP-DES implantation for real-world femoropopliteal lesions.

Methods:

This multicenter, prospective, observational study evaluated 1204 limbs (chronic limb-threatening ischemia, 34.8%; mean lesion length, 18.6 ± 9.9 cm, chronic total occlusion: 53.2%) of 1097 patients with PAD (age, 75 ± 9 years; diabetes mellitus, 60.8%) undergoing FP-DES implantation for femoropopliteal lesions. The primary outcome measure was 3-year restenosis. The secondary outcome measures included 3-year occlusive restenosis, stent thrombosis, target lesion revascularization (TLR), and aneurysmal degeneration.

Results:

The 3-year cumulative occurrence of restenosis was 27.3%, whereas that of occlusive restenosis, stent thrombosis, and TLR was 16.1%, 7.3%, and 19.6%, respectively. The annual occurrence of restenosis decreased by 12.0%, 9.5%, and 5.8% in the first, second, and third year, respectively ( p < 0.001). Similarly, the rates of occlusive restenosis and stent thrombosis decreased ( p < 0.001 and p = 0.007, respectively), whereas the rate of TLR remained unchanged for 3 years ( p = 0.15). The incidence of aneurysmal degeneration at 3 years (15.7%) did not significantly differ from that at 1 and 2 years ( p = 0.69 and 0.20, respectively).

Conclusions:

This study highlights the favorable long-term clinical course of FP-DES in real-world practice, emphasizing the importance of monitoring for occlusive restenosis and stent thrombosis while considering the potential onset of aneurysmal degeneration.
What words can tell us about social determinants of mental health: A multi-method analysis of sentiment towards migration experiences and community life in Lima, Perú
Authors: Gargano Maria Caterina , DiBiase Crystal Elizabeth , Miller-Graff Laura E.
Published: March 2024

To support resilience in contexts of migration, a deeper understanding of the experiences of both receiving communities and migrants is required. Research on the impacts of migration on community life is limited in contexts with high internal migration (i.e., migrating within one's country of origin). Evidence suggests that cultural similarity, community relationships, and access to resources may be protective factors that could be leveraged to support the mental health of internal migrants. The current study uses data drawn from a sample of pregnant Peruvian women ( N = 251), 87 of whom reported being internal migrants and 164 of whom reported being from the locale of the study (Lima, Perú). The aim was to better understand the social experience of internal migration for both local and migrant women. Inductive thematic analysis was used to examine migration experience and perceived impact of migration on community life. Internal migrants discussed three themes relative to their experiences: motivations, adjustment, and challenges. Experiences of women in receiving communities consisted of four themes related to migration: positive, negative, neutral, and mixed perceptions. Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count (LIWC-22) software was also used to assess sentiment towards migration. Across both analytic methods, migration motivations and perceptions were multifaceted and migrants reported a wide range of challenges before, during, and after migration. Findings indicated that attitudes toward migration are broadly positive, and that there is a more positive appraisal of migration's impact on the community life for internal as opposed to international migration.
Understanding Variations in the Management of Displaced Distal Radius Fractures With Satisfactory Reduction
Authors: Aryee Jomar N. A. , Frias Giulia C. , Haddad Daniel K. , Guerrero Kevin D. , Chen Vivian , Ling Fan , Kirschenbaum David , Monica James T. , Katt Brian M.
Published: March 2024

Background:

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons has set forth Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPGs) to help guide management of closed, displaced distal radius fractures (DRFs). There still exists variation in practice regarding operative vs nonoperative decision-making. This study aims to identify which factors influence the decision to treat DRFs not indicated for surgery by the CPGs after initial closed reduction.

Methods:

Fifteen sets of DRFs and clinical vignettes were distributed via email to over 75 orthopedic residency programs, Orthopaedic Trauma Association, and New York Society for Surgery of the Hand membership. A Qualtrics survey collected respondent demographics, choice of treatment, and rationale.

Results:

Responses were received from 106 surgeons and resident trainees. The odds of selecting operative management for fractures with 5 or more radiographic instability signs versus 3 or 4 was 3.11 ( P < .05). Age over 65, higher patient activity level, and dominant-hand injury were associated with greater odds of operative management (3.4, 30.28, and 2.54, respectively). In addition, surgeons with more years in practice and high-volume surgeons had greater odds of selecting operative management (2.43 and 2.11, respectively).

Conclusions:

Assessment of instability at the time of injury, patient age and activity level, as well as surgeon volume and time in practice independently affect the decision to manage well-reduced DRF with surgical or nonsurgical treatment. The source of heterogeneity in the treatment of these fractures is borne at least in part from a lack of formal direction on the importance of prereduction instability from the CPGs.
Managing menopause in an irradiated pelvis – uncharted territory
Authors: Darnborough Sally
Published: March 2024

Radiotherapy is an effective cancer treatment, particularly for pelvic tumours. The number of patients with pelvic cancer being diagnosed and successfully treated is growing. Radiotherapy to the pelvis causes lasting side-effects collectively referred to as pelvic radiation disease (PRD), including bowel, bladder, sexual dysfunction, vaginal and cervical stenoses, and menopause. There is growing interest in management of menopause in cancer survivors, with the primary focus on the oncologic risk of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Research examining if the modality with which the cancer was treated causes menopause-specific side effects is rare; however, malabsorption syndromes and anatomical changes in the pelvis post-radiotherapy may complicate effective delivery and monitoring of HRT. Consideration of these changes may significantly benefit patients in this young and growing cohort; thus, there is an urgent need to raise awareness of PRD among all clinicians, including those providing menopause care.
The Ross-Konno Procedure With or Without Mitral Valve Surgery: A Systematic Review With Individual Data Pooling
Authors: Dib Nabil , Ducruet Thierry , Poirier Nancy , Khairy Paul
Published: March 2024

Background: The Ross-Konno procedure is a technically demanding surgical option to treat multilevel left ventricular outflow tract obstruction. Methods: A systematic review with pooled analyses was conducted according to PRISMA criteria on studies published between January 2000 and May 2022 that assessed outcomes following the Ross-Konno intervention in children. Individual patient data were extracted from published Kaplan-Meier curves using digitalization software. Overall survival and freedom from reintervention were assessed by time-to-event approaches. Determinants of one-year survival were investigated by meta-regression analyses. Results: Ten studies with a total population of 274 patients were included. The overall pooled early (≤30 days) survival rate was 86.9% (95% CI [87.6%-78.4%]). Five-year survival rates in patients without and with (N = 50 [18.2%] of 274 total patients) concomitant mitral valve surgery were 82.5% (95% CI [87.6%-77.4%]) versus 56.1% (95% CI [74.1%-38.1%]), hazard ratio 2.67, 95% CI (1.44-4.93), P < .0001. Five- and ten-year freedom from pulmonary autograft reoperation rates were 93.5% and 90.9%, respectively. Five- and ten-year freedom from right ventricular outflow tract reoperation rates were 74.3% and 57.3%, respectively. By meta-regression analysis, resection of endocardial fibroelastosis (N = 32 [11.7%] of 274 total patients) was associated with superior one-year survival ( P = .027). Conclusion: The Ross-Konno procedure is associated with substantial early mortality and gradual attrition thereafter. Mortality is higher in patients with concomitant mitral valve surgery. Resection of endocardial fibroelastosis is associated with superior survival. Right ventricular outflow tract reinterventions are common.
Book review: Divya Cherian, Merchants of Virtue: Hindus, Muslims, and Untouchables in Eighteenth-century South Asia
Authors: Habib Irfan
Published: March 2024

Divya Cherian, Merchants of Virtue: Hindus, Muslims, and Untouchables in Eighteenth-century South Asia (USA: University of California Press), 2023, 284 pp., (Pb.).
Association Between Psychosocial Acuity and Glycemic Control in a Pediatric Type 1 Diabetes Clinic
Authors: Wardell Joseph , Albright Dana , Chang Claire , Plegue Melissa A. , Lee Jung Eun , Hirschfeld Emily , Garrity Ashley , Lee Joyce M. , DeJonckheere Melissa
Published: March 2024

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to describe the frequency of psychosocial risk and its associations with glycemic levels in youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D) seen by social work staff during regular clinical care.

Methods:

A retrospective longitudinal analysis of observational clinical data was conducted. Individuals (1-26 years) with known T1D who were seen at a pediatric diabetes clinic in a US academic medical center between 2014 and 2021 were included. Variables included psychosocial acuity, A1C, and demographic characteristics. Chi-square tests, Wilcoxon rank sum tests, and mixed linear regressions were used to examine associations between demographic variables, psychosocial acuity, and A1C.

Results:

Of 966 patients, 513 (53.1%) were male, 76 (7.9%) were non-Hispanic Black, and 804 (83.2%) were non-Hispanic White. There was a mean of 6.9 annual social work encounters per patient, with 3 psychosocial domains measured at each visit. Results showed that as psychosocial acuity level increased, glycemic control decreased. There were significant differences in A1C according to race/ethnicity, insurance, age, and psychosocial acuity.

Conclusions:

In a real-world clinical population, psychosocial acuity was associated with glycemic control. Presenting for psychosocial issues in their diabetes clinic was associated with reduced glycemic control among youth with T1D. There is an opportunity to connect pediatric patients with appropriate mental health services and psychosocial supports.
Targeting triple negative breast cancer stem cells using nanocarriers
Authors: Dasari Nagasen , Guntuku Girija Sankar , Pindiprolu Sai Kiran S. S.
Published: March 2024

Breast cancer is a complex and heterogeneous disease, encompassing various subtypes characterized by distinct molecular features, clinical behaviors, and treatment responses. Categorization of subtypes is based on the presence or absence of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), leading to subtypes such as luminal A, luminal B, HER2-positive, and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). TNBC, comprising around 20% of all breast cancers, lacks expression of ER, PR, and HER2 receptors, rendering it unresponsive to targeted therapies and presenting significant challenges in treatment. TNBC is associated with aggressive behavior, high rates of recurrence, and resistance to chemotherapy. Tumor initiation, progression, and treatment resistance in TNBC are attributed to breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs), which possess self-renewal, differentiation, and tumorigenic potential. Surface markers, self-renewal pathways (Notch, Wnt, Hedgehog signaling), apoptotic protein (Bcl-2), angiogenesis inhibition (VEGF inhibitors), and immune modulation (cytokines, immune checkpoint inhibitors) are among the key targets discussed in this review. However, targeting the BCSC subpopulation in TNBC presents challenges, including off-target effects, low solubility, and bioavailability of anti-BCSC agents. Nanoparticle-based therapies offer a promising approach to target various molecular pathways and cellular processes implicated in survival of BSCS in TNBC. In this review, we explore various nanocarrier-based approaches for targeting BCSCs in TNBC, aiming to overcome these challenges and improve treatment outcomes for TNBC patients. These nanoparticle-based therapeutic strategies hold promise for addressing the therapeutic gap in TNBC treatment by delivering targeted therapies to BCSCs while minimizing systemic toxicity and enhancing treatment efficacy.

Graphical abstract
Is central venous catheter in haemodialysis still the main factor of mortality after hospitalization?
Authors: Campos Erwin , Cuevas-Budhart Miguel Angel , Cedillo-Flores Renata , Candelario-López Julián , Jiménez Rigoberto , Flores-Almonte Alberto , Ramos-Sanchez Alfonso , Divino Filho Jose C.
Published: March 2024

Background

Haemodialysis is the most frequently prescribed Renal Replacement Therapy modality worldwide. However, patients undergoing this therapy have an unpredictable evolution related to vascular access.

Objective

To determine the factors associated with the mortality and hospitalization rate in haemodialysis patients at a third-level care Centre in the Dominican Republic.

Methods

This was an observational and prospective study involving a cohort of 192 haemodialysis patients. The patient selection was non-probabilistic for convenience, and a direct source questionnaire was applied.

Results

Of the 192 patients in the cohort, 103 (53.6%) were hospitalized and evaluated. The most frequent cause of hospitalization was catheter-related bloodstream infections (53.4%). Almost one-third (28.2%) of the hospitalized patients died, mostly due to infections (12.6%). Of those who died 29 patients (90%) had a Central venous catheter (CVC) with a non-tunnelled catheter (NTCVC) (65.5%); having an NTC CVC makes a patient 85.5 times more likely to be hospitalized than patients with arteriovenous fistulas.

Conclusion

Vascular access plays a predominant role in the hospitalization and mortality rates in haemodialysis. Patients with an arteriovenous fistula obtained significantly better outcomes than those with central venous catheters.
Mortality and associated factors among children admitted to an intensive care unit in muhimbili national hospital, from the time of admission to three months after discharge: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Lyimo Rehema E. , Said Yasser H. , Kivuyo Sokoine L. , Nkya Deogratias , Furia Francis F.
Published: March 2024

Background

Mortality of children admitted to Intensive Care Units (ICU) is higher in low-to-middle-income countries (LMICs) as compared to high-income countries (HICs). There is paucity of information on outcomes following discharge from ICU, especially from sub-Saharan Africa region. This study was conducted to determine mortality and its associated factors among children admitted to Pediatric ICU (PICU) at Muhimbili National Hospital, from admission to three months after discharge.

Methodology

This was a hospital-based prospective cohort study conducted between July 2021 and May 2022, among children admitted to PICU who were followed up for 3-month after discharge. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data from their medical charts. Telephone interviews were made after discharge. Medical records and verbal autopsy were used to determine the cause of death after discharge. Cox regression analysis was performed to assess the association between variables. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Survival after PICU discharge was estimated by Kaplan - Meier curve.

Results

Of 323 children recruited, 177(54.8%) were male, with a median age of 17 months (1-168). The leading cause of PICU admission was severe sepsis 90/323(27.9%). A total of 161/323 children died, yielding an overall mortality of 49.8%. Of 173 children discharged from PICU, 33(19.1%) died. The leading cause of death among children who died in the general ward or as readmission into PICU was sepsis 4/17(23.5%). Respiratory diseases 4/16(25.0%) were the commonest cause of death among those who died after hospital discharge. Independent predictors of overall mortality included single organ dysfunction with hazard ratio(HR):5.97, 95% confidence interval (CI)(3.05–12.26)] and multiple organ dysfunction [HR:2.77,95%CI(1.03–2.21)]. Chronic illness[HR:8.13,95%CI(2.45–27.02)], thrombocytosis [HR:3.39,95%CI(1.32–8.73)], single[HR:3.57,95%CI(1.42–9.03)] and multiple organ dysfunction[HR:3.11,95%CI(1.01–9.61)] independently predicted post-PICU discharge mortality.

Conclusion

Overall mortality and post- PICU discharge mortality were high and more likely to affect children with organ dysfunction, chronic illness, and thrombocytosis. The leading causes of mortality post- PICU discharge were sepsis and respiratory diseases. There is a need for a focused follow up plan of children post- PICU discharge, further research on the long term survival and strategies to improve it.
Evaluation of monkeypox knowledge and attitudes among Chinese medical students
Authors: Yu Liliang , Shen Yan , Liu Min , Ma Junchun , Long Jiang , Zheng Daikun
Published: March 2024

Background

Monkeypox is a zoonotic disease caused by the monkeypox virus and is increasingly recognized as a serious public health concern worldwide. Our aim was to investigate the knowledge and attitudes of Chinese medical students regarding monkeypox.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 8,897 college students from China. An e-questionnaire was used to collect data on knowledge (17 items), attitudes (12 items), and baseline criteria. The relationships between a range of factors and knowledge and attitudes were studied using univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

A total of 79.33% of the study participants were female, 89.10% were of Han ethnicity, 72.50% were from rural areas, 50.39% were in their first year, and 80.65% were medical majors. A total of 50.88% had good knowledge of monkeypox, and 57.11% had a positive attitude towards monkeypox knowledge. Univariate analysis revealed that origin and major were the factors affecting the knowledge level of monkeypox among participants. Rural students had more knowledge of monkeypox than urban students, and nonmedical students had greater awareness of monkeypox than did medical students. Moreover, sex and grade were the factors influencing participants’ attitudes towards monkeypox; men had more positive attitudes than women did, and senior students had more positive attitudes than junior students did. Multivariate analysis revealed that major and the origin of the students independently influenced the monkeypox knowledge of Chinese medical students, while sex, grade and monkeypox knowledge were significantly related to attitudes towards monkeypox.

Conclusion

This study revealed that nearly half of the Chinese medical students had good knowledge and a positive attitude towards monkeypox. Student origin and major independently influenced the knowledge of Chinese medical students of monkeypox, while sex, grade and knowledge were independently related to the attitudes of Chinese medical students towards monkeypox.
Exploring the association between ultra-processed foods and COPD: a case-control study
Authors: Salehi Zahra , Malmir Hanieh , Ghosn Batoul , Onvani Shokouh , Ardestani Mohammad Emami , Feizi Awat , Esmaillzadeh Ahmad , Azadbakht Leila
Published: March 2024

Background

While it is known that the overconsumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) is associated with a heightened risk of respiratory ailments, the specific effects of UPF intake on COPD remain unclear. This study was designed to explore the potential link between COPD and the consumption of UPFs among adult individuals in Iran.

Methods

In this hospital-based case-control study conducted at Alzahra University Hospital in Isfahan, Iran, we enrolled 84 patients newly diagnosed with COPD, along with 252 healthy controls matched for age and sex. COPD was defined based on the results of spirometry tests, specifically when the forced expiratory volume per second (FEV1) was less than 80% or the ratio of FEV1 to forced vital capacity (FVC) was less than 70%. To evaluate the dietary intake of the participants, we utilized a validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) consisting of 168 items. Additionally, we gathered data on potential confounding factors using a pre-tested questionnaire.

Results

The mean ages for the case and control groups were 57.07 and 55.05 years, respectively. Our study found no significant association between the intake of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and the likelihood of COPD, with an odds ratio (OR: 0.78, 95% CI: 0.34–1.77). This lack of association persisted even after adjusting for factors such as energy intake, sex, and age (OR: 0.48; 95% CI: 0.19–1.21). Further controlling for potential confounders like body mass index (BMI), physical activity, and smoking status did not alter this finding (OR: 0.367; 95% CI: 0.123–1.1008, P = 0.074).

Conclusions

In our study, we observed no significant association between the intake of Ultra-Processed Foods (UPFs) and the odds of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This finding remained consistent even after adjusting for factors such as energy intake, sex, age, Body Mass Index (BMI), physical activity, and smoking status. Therefore, within the scope of our study, it appears that the consumption of UPFs does not significantly impact the likelihood of developing COPD. However, we recommend further research to deepen our understanding of the intricate relationship between dietary habits and respiratory health.
Polyphyllin B inhibited STAT3/NCOA4 pathway and restored gut microbiota to ameliorate lung tissue injury in cigarette smoke-induced mice
Authors: Wang Qing , He Zhiyi , Zhu Jinqi , Hu Mengyun , Yang Liu , Yang Hongzhong
Published: March 2024

Objective

Smoking was a major risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This study plan to explore the mechanism of Polyphyllin B in lung injury induced by cigarette smoke (CSE) in COPD.

Methods

Network pharmacology and molecular docking were applied to analyze the potential binding targets for Polyphyllin B and COPD. Commercial unfiltered CSE and LPS were used to construct BEAS-2B cell injury in vitro and COPD mouse models in vivo, respectively, which were treated with Polyphyllin B or fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT). CCK8, LDH and calcein-AM were used to detect the cell proliferation, LDH level and labile iron pool. Lung histopathology, Fe3+ deposition and mitochondrial morphology were observed by hematoxylin–eosin, Prussian blue staining and transmission electron microscope, respectively. ELISA was used to measure inflammation and oxidative stress levels in cells and lung tissues. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence were applied to analyze the 4-HNE, LC3 and Ferritin expression. RT-qPCR was used to detect the expression of FcRn, pIgR, STAT3 and NCOA4. Western blot was used to detect the expression of Ferritin, p-STAT3/STAT3, NCOA4, GPX4, TLR2, TLR4 and P65 proteins. 16S rRNA gene sequencing was applied to detect the gut microbiota.

Results

Polyphyllin B had a good binding affinity with STAT3 protein, which as a target gene in COPD. Polyphyllin B inhibited CS-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, mitochondrial damage, and ferritinophagy in COPD mice. 16S rRNA sequencing and FMT confirmed that Akkermansia and Escherichia_Shigella might be the potential microbiota for Polyphyllin B and FMT to improve CSE and LPS-induced COPD, which were exhausted by the antibiotics in C + L and C + L + P mice. CSE and LPS induced the decrease of cell viability and the ferritin and LC3 expression, and the increase of NCOA4 and p-STAT3 expression in BEAS-2B cells, which were inhibited by Polyphyllin B. Polyphyllin B promoted ferritin and LC3II/I expression, and inhibited p-STAT3 and NCOA4 expression in CSE + LPS-induced BEAS-2B cells.

Conclusion

Polyphyllin B improved gut microbiota disorder and inhibited STAT3/NCOA4 pathway to ameliorate lung tissue injury in CSE and LPS-induced mice.
Immuno-protective response of Asian seabass (Lates calcarifer) to inactivated vaccines against Streptococcus iniae and Vibrio harveyi
Authors: Erfanmanesh Ahmad , Beikzadeh Babak , Khanzadeh Majid , Alishahi Mojtaba
Published: March 2024

Background

In this study, the protective immunity and immunogenicity of the monovalent and bivalent Streptococcus iniae and Vibrio harveyi vaccine were evaluated in Asian seabass. To analyze immune responses, 1200 Asian seabass with an average weight of 132.6 ± 25.4 g were divided into eight treatments in triplicates (50 fish per tank) as follows: S. iniae immunized by injection (SI), V. harveyi immunized by injection (VI), bivalent S. iniae and V. harveyi (SVI) immunized by injection, S. iniae immunized by immersion (SIM), V. harveyi (VIM) immunized by immersion, bivalent S. iniae and V. harvei (SVIM) immunized by immersion, phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) by injection (PBSI) and control group without vaccine administration (CTRL). Blood and serum samples were taken at the end of the 30th and 60th days. Then the vaccinated groups were challenged with two bacteria (S. iniae) and (V. harveyi) separately and mortality was recorded for 14 days.

Results

This study reveals that there is no significant difference in the hematological parameters on the 30th and 60th days of the experiment in the vaccine-immunized groups compared to the CTRL group (P > 0.05). Meanwhile, there was no significant difference in the amount of serum albumin level, respiratory burst activity, and serum bactericidal activity in the vaccine-immunized groups compared to the CTRL group on the 30th and 60th days of the experiment (P > 0.05). Total protein on the 60th day (in the VI and SVI groups), globulin on the 30th day (in the VI and SVI groups) and the 60th day (in the VI group) compared to the CTRL and PBSI groups had a significant increase (P < 0.05). Complement activity (in the VI and SVI groups) and lysozyme (in the SI and SVI groups) increased significantly compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Serum antibody titer against S. iniae had a significant increase in the SI, VI, SVI and SVIM groups compared to the CTRL and PBSI groups (P < 0.05). Serum antibody titer against V. harveyi had a significant increase in the groups immunized with the vaccine compared to the CTRL and PBSI groups (P < 0.05). A significant increase in the relative percentage survival (RPS) following challenge with S. iniae in the SVI (86.6%), SI (83.3%,) and VI (73.3%) groups were observed compared to the CTRL (43.3%) and PBSI (40%) groups (P < 0.05). Also, a significant increase in the RPS after challenge with V. harveyi in the SVI group, VI 86.6%, SVI 83.3%, VIM 80% and SVIM 76.6% were observed compared to the CTRL (46.6%) and PBSI (50%) groups (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Overall, the results demonstrated that the bivalent vaccine of S. iniae and V. harveywas able to produce significant immunogenicity and RPS in Asian seabass
Impact of chronic psychological stress on platelet membrane fatty acid composition in a rat model of type 1 diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Bikulčienė Inga , Baleišis Justinas , Mazgelytė Eglė , Rudys Romualdas , Vosyliūtė Rūta , Šimkūnaitė-Rizgelienė Renata , Kaminskas Arvydas , Karčiauskaitė Dovilė
Published: March 2024

Background

Chronic stress and diabetes mellitus are highly associated with oxidative stress and inflammation, resulting in cell membrane disruption and platelet activity. This study aims to evaluate the impact of chronic psychological stress on the composition of the platelet phospholipid membrane and platelet activation in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM).

Methods

We enrolled 35 mature healthy female Wistar rats and randomly divided them into 4 groups, namely the control group (n = 9), stress group (n = 10), T1DM group (n = 8), and T1DM + Stress group (n = 8). The Wistar rats were treated in different experimental conditions for 28 days while being provided free access to feed and water. The concentration of corticosterone in blood serum and hair samples was measured using a competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was conducted to identify the methyl esters of fatty acids (FAs) in the platelet phospholipid membrane. A quantitative determination of 11-dehydro-thromboxane B2 in the blood serum was also performed using a competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

After 28 days, the concentration of corticosterone in blood serum (ng/mL) was observed to be higher in the stress group as compared to the T1DM and T1DM + Stress groups (P = 0.031 and P = 0.008, respectively). The percentage of C 16:0 FA in the platelet membrane was greater in the T1DM + Stress group, but its levels of C 20:1 omega (ω) 9 FA, including C 18:3ω3 FA, C 20:5ω3 FA, and the total sum of ω3 FAs, were lower as compared to the control group (P = 0.016; P = 0.016; P = 0.031; P = 0.016, P = 0.031). The concentration of 11-dehydro-thromboxane B2 in blood serum (pg/mL) was observed to be higher in the stress group than in rats with T1DM (P = 0.063).

Conclusion

Chronic psychological stress is related to higher levels of corticosterone, saturated FAs acids in the platelet membrane, and greater platelet activation. This study proves how a low percentage of unsaturated fatty acids in the DM and stress groups indicates the disturbing impact of the oxidative/inflammatory environment to lipid metabolism and neuroendocrine response.