bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Globális ellátási láncok aktuális kihívásai
Authors: Király Éva , Hegedűs Ferenc , Domboróczky Zoltán
Published: October 2023

A közelmúlt környezeti-, társadalmi- és gazdasági változásai ráirányították a figyelmet a globális ellátási láncok sérülékenységére. Különösen azokban az esetekben igaz ez, amikor a külső befolyásoló tényezők válságszerűek, hiszen a válságok – természetükből adódóan – újszerű kezelést, megoldást kívánnak. Az ellátási lánc menedzsment tudományterülete jelenleg éppen olyan periódusban van, amikor ezeket az újszerű megoldásokat szükséges felszínre hozni, hiszen a korábbi gyakorlatok már nem feltétlenül képesek szavatolni az ellátási láncok szakadásmentes és kiszámítható működését a megváltozott feltételrendszerben. Tanulmányunkban összefoglaljuk a közelmúlt azon traumáit, amelyek közvetlen vagy közvetett hatást gyakoroltak a globális ellátási láncokra. E tekintetben nem a közvetlen vagy közvetett jellemzőre koncentráltunk, hanem az ellátási láncokra gyakorolt hatás mértékére. A globális befolyásoló hatások számbavételén túl vizsgáljuk az egyes jelenségek logisztikai, ellátási lánc szervezési következményeit, melyek okán várhatóan számos vállalat átalakítja üzleti modelljét.  Tanulmányunkban a szcenárió-elemzés módszertanát alkalmazva megfogalmazzuk az átalakulás lehetséges jövőbeli dimenzióit, szem előtt tartva ezek gyakorlati alkalmazhatóságát, hiszen olyan kihívásokra igyekeznek választ adni, melyekkel a közeljövőben a vállalatoknak szembesülni kell ellátási láncaik megszervezése és működtetése során.
TRABALHO DO ATOR E EMOÇÕES
Authors: Rosa Ronald , Tavares dos Santos Bárbara
Published: October 2023

Este trabalho tem como objetivo demonstrar por meio do diálogo da neurociência das emoções e o conceito de memória das emoções de Constantin Stanislavski (1863 – 1938), a importância das emoções humanas no trabalho de ator/atriz sobre em processos de criação cênica. Também faz parte desta pesquisa a exploração do conceito imagem mental que possui correspondente no campo da neurociência e das artes cênicas, assim como, a reflexão do corpo como potência de criação artística, sendo a emoção uma reação a estímulos ambientais ou cognitivos que podem contribuir significativamente para processos criativos. Para fomentar o diálogo entre teatro e neurociências é apresentado o percurso histórico em que a arte se relaciona com as ciências médicas, pelo viés da filosofia ocidental, partindo de Aristóteles na história antiga e culminando nos escritos do escritor e neurocientista português Antônio Damásio (1994) sobre o processo neurofisiológico e a interpretação das emoções humanas. Realiza-se um estudo sobre as contribuições da neurociência das emoções para o trabalho de ator/atriz na composição artística orgânica.
ARTE E(M) EDUCAÇÃO
Authors: Wosniak Cristiane do Rocio
Published: October 2023

Trata-se de uma publicação decorrente de um conjunto de textos autorais de Marcos H. Camargo, anteriormente publicados sob o formato de artigos, ensaios, excertos e capítulos de livros, ao longo dos últimos 14 anos. O objetivo do autor, neste livro publicado em 2021 pela Editora Syntagma e contendo 260 páginas, é oferecer praticidade na busca de leituras e consultas aos/às interessados/as em pesquisas sobre educação, arte, filosofia e estética como produtoras de conhecimento. Na coletânea, composta por 11 textos, chama a atenção o protagonismo do corpo, visto que é por meio das relações experienciais/sensíveis entre o corpo e o mundo das coisas existentes que se produz pensamento e(m) apreensão do conhecimento.
QUANDO A ARTE E O ARTISTA SE MISTURAM
Authors: Araujo Fernandes Felipe
Published: October 2023

Neste trabalho nos interessa apresentar a Capoeira e extrair ensinamentos desse tesouro que foi forjado em anos de luta contra a colonização e o imperialismo. Sendo uma expressão performática enraizada na cultura mais genuinamente popular, de origem africana, em que a obra se mescla com o próprio artista, e que só se realiza por completo enquanto uma produção coletiva, e não individual, tomando um papel de intervenção social e de educação de seus agentes, com sofisticados conceitos filosóficos, bem como arcabouço técnico e marcial, com potencial imenso em educar os corpos-mentes para a luta ela liberdade, com estratégias e táticas militares de autodefesa e de ampliação da humanidade e da liberdade. Tendo o ritual da roda como uma “escola” para ensinar a como lidar com os conflitos da vida, a “grande roda”, utilizando-se da malandragem, mandinga, ginga de corpo e tantos outros artificio cunhados no decorrer de gerações de sobrevivência dessa arte marcial.
MATERIALIZAÇÃO DA IMAGINAÇÃO
Authors: Jacques de Moraes Dalgalarrondo Luisa
Published: October 2023

Este artigo analisa o processo de criação da diretora, dramaturga e performer Carolina Bianchi, evidenciando a relação entre as práticas utilizadas pela artista em processo e suas produções artísticas. É feita uma breve análise de duas obras de Bianchi, LOBO (2018) e O Tremor Magnífico (2020) e das principais práticas investigadas pela artista. É abordado como Bianchi contribui para o cenário artístico através de propostas de construção de uma corporalidade performativa tendo a imaginação como aspecto central em seu processo de criação .
APROPRIAÇÕES POÉTICAS DE BIOSSENSORES
Authors: De Pellegrin Ricardo , Stumm Rebeca  Lenize
Published: October 2023

A neurociência é uma área da ciência dedicada ao estudo dos processos cognitivos e suas relações com o corpo e o ambiente. Os progressos na compreensão do funcionamento mental, em grande parte, ocorreram mediante o desenvolvimento de tecnologias de inspeção e monitoramento do corpo, entre elas os biossensores. Este artigo tem como objetivo investigar o emprego de biossensores no processo poético em Arte Contemporânea, a partir da arte, da neurociência e da tecnologia. Para tanto, inicio com a definição de neurociência seguido de uma contextualização na qual elenco alguns momentos, de diferentes períodos históricos, que apresentam o desenvolvimento e aplicações de biossensores no campo das Artes Visuais. Os exemplos escolhidos serviram para auxiliar a elaboração e a apresentação do processo poético autoral, considerando os biossensores como um recurso de monitoramento do corpo na concepção de uma visualidade que revela a mente corporificada. A metodologia envolveu a pesquisa bibliográfica associada à abordagem poética, empregando como suporte conceitual, especialmente, os escritos de Vilayanur S. Ramachandran (2014) e Hosana Celeste Oliveira (2019).
CORPOGRAFIAS EM PERFORMANCES DE CANÇÃO AO VIVO
Authors: (Felipe Saldanha Odier) Mamutte
Published: October 2023

Nesse artigo ensaiaremos a aproximação entre a arte da performance e o fazer do artista da música atuando ao vivo. Para sustentar essa ideia introduziremos a noção de corpografia, cunhada por Ricardo Aleixo, que corrobora para o entendimento de abordagens interartes em um show de música cantada, em que há repertórios estéticos de fazeres corporais que se borram como disciplina ou área específica, ou definida/definitiva. Outras noções que contribuem para o entendimento teórico-prático da corpografia são, máquina performática, proposto por Gonzalo Aguilar e Mario Cámara, verbivocovisual, termo citado por Haroldo de Campos desde a poesia e programa performativo, de Eleonora Fabião, relacionados aos comportamentos identificados nas artes ao vivo. Esses acontecimentos performativos se encontram em um campo experimental, mesmo estando em contextos mercadológicos que se constroem desde o pop. Como exemplos desse estudo identificamos alguns casos em shows dos artistas Caetano Veloso, Adriana Calcanhotto, Rogério Skylab e Sílvia Machete.
O PENSAMENTO E A TERRA
Authors: Nicoliello Ana Rita
Published: October 2023

Este ensaio é uma reflexão sobre a pergunta “qual é a relação do pensamento com a Terra?”, colocada por Gilles Deleuze e Félix Guattari no livro O que é a Filosofia? Partindo de uma perspectiva situada que engloba experiências em primeira pessoa com mudanças, trânsitos e deslocamentos, além da prática da caminhada e da dança, agencio-me com alguns aliados e aliadas para defender o pensamento deambulatório: um pensamento sensível, ancorado no chão, que se expressa como rastro de movimentos do corpo, que toma posição, que é consciente de sua parcialidade e necessidade de formar redes e que, por todas essas razões, é capaz de sonhar novas paisagens na Terra.
CONFLUÊNCIAS ENTRE ARTE E NATUREZA NA CONTEMPORANEIDADE EM CORPOS LATINO-AMERICANES [COMO ENTIDADES] NAS ARTES VISUAIS
Authors: Pagotto Gislaine
Published: October 2023

O presente artigo pretende apontar algumas características de produções artísticas contemporâneas a partir da década de 1950, em correlação com a ideia de natureza. Para tanto, a proposta é pontuar e percorrer por contextos culturais, políticos e sociais a partir das décadas de 1960 e 1970 americanos e latino-americanos, e discorrer sobre noções de entidade através da produção de artistas latinos e suas proposições artísticas a partir de corpos-artistas e corpos-obras com Ana Mendieta, Panema e Uýra Sodoma, afim de refletir a respeito dos movimentos dos corpos (de artistas, de obras, do mundo e do espectador) em cada contexto, respectivamente, a partir de suas diferentes noções de natureza, cultura e ancestralidade. As leituras de obras feitas no decorrer deste artigo, podem ser compreendidas como possíveis relações entre corpos-espectadores e corpos-obras a partir de fotos e vídeos como objetos artísticos desenvolvidos a partir de ações performáticas, porém imprimindo certas individualidades em seus estados de ser autônomos das performances no mundo.
HORREUR COSMIQUE ET L’EXTÉRIORITÉ RADICALE
Authors: Menon Junior Walter
Published: October 2023

Ce texte prêtent rend compte de la notion d’ontologie élaborée à partir de la lecture de l’œuvre de H. P. Lovecraft par Fabián Ludueña Romandini. Le philosophe argentin prend le texte lovecraftien en tant que le développement d’une ontologie, dont l’aspect fictionnel est entendu comme la procédure spéculative qui produit une cosmologie et une mythologie. Cette ontologie parle de ce qui est hors de tout mode d’existence et donc de ce qu’on appellerait d’extériorité radicale, de laquelle on ne peut connaitre que ce qu’on représente fictionnellement à partir des rêves, des transes mystiques ou des délires et hallucinations. Dans ce sens, l’extériorité radicale présuppose une ontologie sans catégories possibles. Une autre lecture de l’œuvre lovecraftienne est possible cependant : l’extériorité radicale n’est qu’autre dénomination de la différence incarnée dans le primitif, dont la représentation n’est que l’incorporel, ou le corp non individualisé, déformé de l’immigrant qu’incarne, pour HPL, la dégénération biologique et sociale.

Mots clés : Lovecraft ; extériorité radicale ; Romandini ; cosmologie ; politique.
Assessment of Herbal Product Use Among Infertile Women: A Survey-Based Study in Türkiye
Authors: Cumhur Hilal , Aydin Abdulkadir , Oturak Gokhan , Ekerbicer Hasan Cetin , Etcioglu Erkut
Published: October 2023

Aim: The use of herbal products is the most commonly preferred traditional and complementary medicine method. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of herbal product use among infertile women in Türkiye and identify the factors affecting the use of these products.

Methods: We created a survey consisting of 31 questions, six of which were open-ended and used to interview 108 infertile women at the infertility clinic of Sakarya University Hospital to assess herbal product use. SPSS v20 was used for data analysis.

Results: Of the participants, 69 (63.8%) had previously used herbal products to treat their infertility. They were found to have used 62 different herbal products for their condition. In order, the five most commonly used plants were onions, figs, carobs, yarrows, and walnuts. However; 15.94% of the participants who used herbal products experienced mild to moderate side effects, with the most common side effects being nausea, dizziness, and muscle weakness. In addition, 79.71% of the participants who used herbal products had not consulted their doctor about using these products.

Conclusion: At present, alternative treatments have become more common, and people use alternative treatment methods for many health problems, such as infertility. According to the literature, herbal products are one of the most frequently used alternative treatment methods. However, there is insufficient evidence-based research on the positive and negative effects of these products. Hence, more comprehensive studies on the impacts of herbal products are needed.

Keywords: herbal, products, infertility, complementary medicine
PERANCANGAN SISTEM INFORMASI PELAYANAN PADA MOGELLE CAFE
Authors: Sianturi Nico Bangun Rezkyanto , Tukino Tukino
Published: October 2023

The development of the café industry or similar restaurant service industries is increasingly popular among consumers in the city of Batam. Efforts to improve the services provided to all customers coming to Café are being carried out, including café mogelle, which is facing issues in the digitalization of café management services. The researchers used the waterfall development method to develop the service information system in the café and used UML diagrams to design the entire process that occurs in the café mogelle service information system. The results of this research show the proposed solution to café mogelle, which adds value that can be felt by consumers by improving services through the café mogelle service information system. This research has a positive impact on café owners or managers and enhances the productivity or performance of staff and cashiers. Through this café mogelle information system, payment and ordering processes can be carried out through the built system, thus increasing efficiency in providing services to customers.
Strategies for integral rehabilitation and improvement of the energy efficiency of Lagos Park building in Madrid
Authors: Maciá-Torregrosa María Eugenia , Camacho-Diez Javier , González-Lezcano Roberto Alonso
Published: October 2023

As a primary goal, Inadequate energy consumption and outdated construction systems are causing financial losses for homeowners. Spain’s failure to meet European guidelines on CO2 emissions highlights the urgent need to address the energy inefficiency of buildings, responsible for 40% of such emissions. This article presents a comprehensive refurbishment project undertaken in the Lagos Park residential building in Madrid. The paper offers a detailed analysis of common building issues related to excessive humidity in the surrounding areas and deficiencies in the energy performance of the building envelope, including facades and roofs. Precise measures for achieving compliance with the Spanish Technical Building Code (CTE), as well as enhancing energy efficiency and functionality, are explained through the renovation of the building envelopes. The study also encompasses improvements made to the domestic hot water supply systems and the air-conditioning system, which contribute to the building’s attainment of an optimal energy rating (energy Class A). The extensive renovation undertaken in the complex has transformed Lagos Park homes into “zero energy consumption” residences. The strategies employed, ranging from electrical appliances to the house’s structural design, are all geared towards maximizing energy usage efficiency, resulting in significantly reduced monthly electricity bills by 65%–75%.
A software pipeline for automated wildlife population sampling
Authors: Marsh Peter K. , Kurfess Franz J.
Published: October 2023

Ecologists today face significant challenges in accurately modeling wildlife populations. Population surveys provide an essential understanding of an ecosystem; however, they currently require an extensive amount of labor and resources to carry out which limits the frequency at which they are conducted. Lack of population data presents a significant barrier to ecologists in their ability to understand and model interactions between species and their surroundings. Preliminary work has been done in employing consumer drones and object detection software to automate data collection and processing on large mammal species. Such work suggests these technologies can significantly ease the process of data collection while maintaining an accuracy comparable to manual surveying techniques. While previous studies indicate the use of drone and object detection technology can aid in the collection of population data, there remain significant barriers in applying such methods to aid in ecological research on a broader scale. In particular, using object detection to identify target individuals involves combining many software tools, each of which comes with its own challenges and complexities. This paper presents a flexible software framework for automated population sampling that is accessible to researchers in the field of wildlife research. To achieve this we combine orthomosaic stitching, object detection, label post-processing, and visualization solutions into a single software pipeline. We then show how such a pipeline can be run in the cloud and provide documentation for others to replicate this process. Finally, we use a consumer drone and free navigation software to demonstrate the proposed workflow on a herd of cattle and assess its viability in providing useful population data.
Body mass index, neck circumference, and hypertension: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Ren Tao-jun , Zhang Kun , Li Wen-juan , Ren Shu-tang , Huang Yun-zhou , Yang Ning , Wu Shou-ling , Li Yu-ming
Published: October 2023

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the association between BMI combined with neck circumference and the risk of hypertension.

Methods

We selected participants from the Kailuan study in 2014 who were normotensive as our research subjects. We compared the risk of hypertension among individuals in group 1 (non-obese with low neck circumference), group 2 (non-obese with high neck circumference), group 3 (obese with low neck circumference), and group 4 (obese with high neck circumference).

Results

After a median observation period of 3.86 years, hypertension occurred in 13,383 participants. Subjects in Group 2, 3, and 4 had significantly higher risks of hypertension compared to Group 1, with hazard ratios (HRs) of 1.066 (95% CI: 1.025, 1.110), 1.322 (95% CI: 1.235, 1.415), and 1.422 (95% CI: 1.337, 1.512), respectively. Additionally, adding BMI to a conventional model had a greater incremental effect on predicting hypertension compared to adding neck circumference alone. However, considering both BMI and neck circumference together further improved the prediction of hypertension.

Conclusion

Individuals with both high BMI and high neck circumference face a higher risk of hypertension. Moreover, BMI is a superior predictor of hypertension risk compared to neck circumference, but using both of these measures can further enhance the accuracy of hypertension risk prediction.
Fluid-mineral dynamics at the Rincón de la Vieja volcano—hydrothermal system (Costa Rica) inferred by the study of major, minor and rare earth elements in the hyperacid crater lake
Authors: Pappaterra Sabrina , Inguaggiato Claudio , Rouwet Dmitri , Levresse Gilles , Peiffer Loic , Apollaro Carmine , Mora-Amador Raúl , Ramírez-Umaña Carlos , González Gino , Schiavo Benedetto , Kretzschmar Thomas Gunter , Brusca Lorenzo
Published: October 2023

Volcanic lakes are complex natural systems and their chemical composition is related to a myriad of processes. The chemical composition of major, minor, Rare Earth Elements (REE) and physico-chemical parameters at the hyperacid crater lake of Rincón de la Vieja volcano (Costa Rica) are here investigated during February 2013–August 2014. The study of the lake chemical composition allows to identify the main geochemical processes occurring in the lake and to track the changes in the volcanic activity, both important for active volcanoes monitoring. The total REE concentration (∑REE) dissolved in the crater lake varies from 2.7 to 3.6 mg kg−1 during the period of observation. REE in the water lake samples normalized to the average volcanic local rock (REEN-local rock) are depleted in light REE (LREE). On the contrary REEN-local rock in the solids precipitated (mainly gypsum/anhydrite), from lake water samples in laboratory at 22°C, are enriched in LREE. The low variability of (La/Pr)N-local rock and (LREE/HREE)N-local rock ratios (0.92–1.07 and 0.66–0.81, respectively) in crater lake waters is consistent with the low phreatic activity (less than 10 phreatic eruptions in 2 years) observed during the period of observation. This period of low activity precedes the unrest started in 2015, thus, it could be considered as a pre-unrest, characterized by infrequent phreatic eruptions. No clear changes in the REE chemistry are associated with the phreatic eruption occurred at mid-2013. The results obtained investigating water-rock interaction processes at the Rincón de la Vieja crater lake show that rock dissolution and mineral precipitation/dissolution are the main processes that control the variability of cations composition over time. In particular, precipitation and dissolution of gypsum and alunite are responsible for the variations of REE in the waters. Despite the low variations of (La/Pr)N-local rock and (LREE/HREE)N-local rock ratios, this study allows to suggest that REE can be used, together with major elements, as practical tracers of water-rock interaction processes and mineral precipitation/dissolution at active hyperacid crater lakes over time, also during periods of quiescence and low phreatic activity.
Simulating infection prevention and control through virtual reality: a vehicle for equity, diversity, and inclusivity in Africa
Authors: Botha Benjamin S. , Hugo-van Dyk Lizemari , Nyoni Champion N.
Published: October 2023

Endemics in Africa are prominent, especially in countries with low income and inadequate infection prevention and control (IPC) measures. Additionally, poorly trained nurses negatively influence infection-related indicators, and these nurses may require re-training. Re-training is expensive, and due to limited resources, healthcare institutions in Africa may not have the opportunity for their nurses to be re-trained in a critical competence such as IPC. Simulation-based education, including virtual reality (VR), has shown numerous benefits in acquiring critical thinking, communication, and clinical skills. However, VR has been reserved for healthcare education in the global north. Also, no educational programmes currently exist that harness the power of VR in a low-resource context such as Africa. We argue that VR is a possible low-cost simulation modality that can create standardised training resulting in equitable, diverse, and inclusive IPC education for nursing students. However due to a lack of technological training and ongoing support, low to middle-income countries often end up failing to implement the interventions over a longer term than the initial investment. Authors like Hofstede identified dimensions causing problems between various cultures, which might restrict the implementation of newer technologies in a diverse, equitable, and inclusive manner. The design and implementation of an educational innovation must address and integrate the cultural dimensions of the targeted context. Embracing, understanding, and respecting the variations in local culture within African universities is essential to inclusive and diverse education practices and the subsequent designing and implementation of educational innovation such as VR.
A systematic review and meta-analysis: clinical outcomes of recurrent pregnancy failure resulting from preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy
Authors: Liang Zhuo , Wen Qiuyue , Li Jingjing , Zeng Dingyuan , Huang Pinxiu
Published: October 2023

Background

Preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) is an emerging technology that aims to identify euploid embryos for transfer, reducing the risk of embryonic chromosomal abnormalities. However, the clinical benefits of PGT-A in recurrent pregnancy failure (RPF) patients, particularly in young RPF patients, remains uncertain.

Objective and rationale

This meta-analysis aimed to determine whether RPF patients undergoing PGT-A had better clinical outcomes compared to those not undergoing PGT-A, thus assessing the value of PGT-A in clinical practice.

Search methods

We systematically searched PubMed, the Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang Data, and VIP Database for Chinese Technical Periodicals (VIP) from 2002 to 2022. Thirteen published studies involving 930 RPF patients screened using PGT-A and over 1,434 RPF patients screened without PGT-A were included in this meta-analysis. Clinical outcomes were evaluated based on embryo transfers after PGT-A (n=1,015) and without PGT-A (n=1,799).

Clinical outcomes

The PGT-A group demonstrated superior clinical outcomes compared to the in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) group. The PGT-A group had a significantly higher implantation rate (IR) (RR=2.01, 95% CI: [1.73; 2.34]), clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) (RR=1.53, 95% CI: [1.36; 1.71]), ongoing pregnancy rate (OPR) (RR=1.76, 95% CI: [1.35; 2.29]), live birth rate (LBR) (RR=1.75, 95% CI: [1.51; 2.03]), and significantly lower clinical miscarriage rate (CMR) (RR=0.74, 95% CI: [0.54; 0.99]). Subgroup analysis based on patient age (under 35 years and 35 years or older) showed that both PGT-A subgroups had significantly better CPR (P<0.01) and LBR (P<0.05) values compared to the IVF/ICSI groups.

This meta-analysis demonstrates that PGT-A in RPF patients, is associated with improved clinical outcomes, including higher IR, CPR, OPR, and LBR values, and lower CMR compared to the IVF/ICSI group. These findings support the positive clinical application of PGT-A in RPF patients.

Systematic Review Registration

http://INPLASY.com, identifier INPLASY 202320118.
The effect of growth hormone on ovarian function recovery in a mouse model of ovarian insufficiency
Authors: Kim Su Mi , Yoo Jung Young , Hong Yeon Hee , Lee Jaewang , Kim Ji Hyang , Lee Jung Ryeol
Published: October 2023

Objectives

To evaluate the effects and mechanisms of action of growth hormone (GH) in the recovery of ovarian function in ovarian insufficiency induced by cyclophosphamide (CP) in a mouse model.

Materials and methods

After inducing ovarian insufficiency by administering 400 mg/kg of CP intraperitoneally to 6-week-old ICR mice, the mice were divided into four groups (control, CP, 1 mg/kg GH, and 2 mg/kg GH) with 10 mice in each group. GH was administered a week later for 7 days. Five mice from each group were sacrificed the next day, and their ovaries were collected for histological examination. The remaining mice were superovulated for in vitro fertilization (IVF). The terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP-nick end labeling assay was performed to detect apoptosis. Masson’s trichrome staining was used to analyze the degree of fibrosis. To quantify angiogenesis, CD31 immunohistochemistry was performed. Angiogenesis-related gene expression profiles were assessed using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.

Results

CP induced the loss of non-growing (primordial and primary) follicles while GH significantly protected primordial follicles and increased follicular quality. The CP group showed a decrease in fertilization and blastocyst formation rates in IVF. In contrast, the GH treatment group showed dose-dependent enhanced IVF outcomes. Furthermore, GH treatment decreased apoptosis and stromal fibrosis and increased angiogenesis. Many genes involved in angiogenesis, especially Leptin (Lep), platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule 1 (Pecam-1), and angiogenin (Ang) were up-regulated in the GH treatment groups.

Conclusion

GH treatment may promote the recovery of ovarian function in ovarian insufficiency induced by the administration of CP via decreasing apoptosis and stromal fibrosis and upregulating Lep, Pecam-1, and Ang genes.
Association between metabolically healthy obesity and metastasis in lung cancer patients – a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Malki Ahmed , Shaik Riyaz Ahamed , Sami Waqas
Published: October 2023

Background

Many clinical trials have looked at the relationship between obesity and lung cancer (LC), however, there is scarcity of literature specifically addressing the association between metabolically healthy obesity and metastasis in LC patients. To address this gap in the body of evidence, the study was conducted to observe the association between metabolically healthy obesity and metastasis in LC patients.

Methods

We conducted a pre-registered systematic review by searching six major online databases to identify studies relevant related to our investigation, in adherence with the PRISMA guidelines. A proper data extraction protocol was further established to synthesize the findings from the selected papers through a meta-analysis.

Results

Eleven (11) studies met the requisite selection criterion and were included in the study. A random-effect model was used. Obesity was found to have a significant impact on readmission in LC patients. The combined analysis showed a significant effect size of 0.08 (95% CI 0.07 to 0.08), indicating a noticeable impact of obesity. It was also assessed that obese individuals had a 34% reduced risk of LC compared to normal weight individuals. Obesity was associated with a lower risk of surgical complications with a pooled risk ratio of 0.13 (95% CI 0.12 to 0.14). A statistically significant decreased risk of LC (pooled RR = 0.72, 95% CI: 0.68 to 0.77) was also observed in the obese individuals.

Conclusion

The analysis reveals that obesity is associated with a noticeable increase in readmissions, although the impact on LC risk itself is negligible. Moreover, obesity appears to have a beneficial effect by reducing the risk of surgical complications. These results highlight the complex relationship between the two aforementioned factors, emphasizing the importance of considering obesity as a significant factor in patient management and healthcare decision-making.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42023427612.
Research on multi-market strategies for virtual power plants with hydrogen energy storage
Authors: Zhang Wenyu , Shen Yu , Wang Xuanyuan , Li Ming , Ren Weixi , Xu Xiaochuan , Zhang Yuyuan
Published: October 2023

As the main body of resource aggregation, Virtual Power Plant (VPP) not only needs to participate in the external energy market but also needs to optimize the management of internal resources. Different from other energy storage, hydrogen energy storage systems can participate in the hydrogen market in addition to assuming the backup supplementary function of electric energy. For the Virtual Power Plant Operator (VPPO), it needs to optimize the scheduling of internal resources and formulate bidding strategies for the electric-hydrogen market based on external market information. In this study, a two-stage model is constructed considering the internal and external interaction mechanism. The first stage model optimizes the operation of renewable energy, flexible load, extraction storage, and hydrogen energy storage system based on the complementary characteristics of internal resources; the second stage model optimizes the bidding strategy to maximize the total revenue of the electricity energy market, auxiliary service market and hydrogen market. Finally, a typical scenario is constructed and the rationality and effectiveness of the strategy are verified. The results show that the hybrid VPP with hydrogen storage has better economic benefits, resource benefits and reliability.
Comprehensive molecular expression profiling of SARS-CoV-associated factors in the endometrium across the menstrual cycle and elevated susceptibility in women with recurrent pregnancy loss
Authors: Qi Ruofan , Guan Rui , Cai Shengyun , Xu Mingjuan , Yang Wen-jui , Wang Chi Chiu
Published: October 2023

Objective: To evaluate the dynamic expression profiling alterations of SARS-CoV-2-associated molecules within the fertile human endometrium throughout the menstrual cycle. Furthermore, to explore the inherent vulnerability of the endometrium to SARS-CoV-2 infection among women experiencing recurrent pregnancy failure, including both recurrent implantation failures (RIF) and recurrent pregnancy losses (RPL).

Method: The present study employed multiple datasets to investigate the expression patterns of SARS-CoV-2-associated genes. Firstly, a single-cell RNA-sequencing dataset comprising endometrial samples from 19 healthy women across the menstrual cycle was utilized. Additionally, two microarray datasets encompassing 24 women with RIF, and 24 women with RPL during the peri-implantation phase were included. To complement these analyses, immunohistochemical (IHC) staining was performed on endometrial samples collected from 30 women with RIF, 30 women with RPL, and 20 fertile controls recruited specifically during the implantation period.

Results: The investigation revealed a moderate expression percentage of CTSL (22%), TMPRSS4 (15%), FURIN (16%) and MX1 (9%) in endometrium. Conversely, the expression percentages of ACE2 (1%) and TMPRSS2 (4%) were relatively low. Notably, the expression of BSG exhibited an increment towards the window of implantation, reaching its peak during the middle secretary phase. Furthermore, a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in TMPRSS2 expression was observed in the RIF group compared to the control group. While the expression of BSG was significantly increased (p < 0.05) in the RPL group, findings that were corroborated by the IHC staining results.

Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate a noteworthy upregulation of BSG expression in the endometrium of women with RPL. These results suggest an augmented susceptibility of endometrium to SARS-CoV-2 infection, potentially contributing to unfavorable pregnancy outcomes.
Living in a hot city: thermal justice through green open space provision
Authors: Ufaira Rifda , Amir Sulfikar , Indraprahasta Galuh Syahbana , Nastiti Anindrya
Published: October 2023

Jakarta's environmental problems, the increasing temperature, and the intensifying urban heat island effect (UHIE) add weight to the deteriorating quality of life in the city. Nevertheless, chronic exposure to heat, especially experienced by inhabitants in tropical cities, receives less attention. It is often seen as a low-onset event that requires no immediate action and is not as noticeable and apparent as other heat events, such as heat waves. This slow onset environmental hazard disproportionately affects the population in the lower socio-economic condition. With their low access to cooling infrastructure, the disadvantaged people of Jakarta live and work in an environment prone to extreme heat exposure. Poor urban planning and design contribute to the intensifying urban heat in Jakarta and exacerbate the impacts of heat by providing mitigating and managing urban heat in the city. Using the Multiple Stream Framework (MSF) lenses, we analyse how and why the issue of urban heat is currently being prioritized in Jakarta and how the provision of green open space contributes to thermal justice in Jakarta. The issue is examined by analyzing urban planning policy through government strategy documents and interviews with key stakeholders. The findings reveal that while there is a growing awareness of urban heat issues in Jakarta, they are often overshadowed by other strategic issues in the policy arena. The research underscores the significance of incorporating urban heat issues into urban policy agendas and promoting equitable distribution of green open space in Jakarta.
Uncovering the neuroprotective effect of vitamin B12 in pneumococcal meningitis: insights into its pleiotropic mode of action at the transcriptional level
Authors: Cassiano Larissa Marcely Gomes , Oliveira Marina da Silva , de Queiroz Karina Barbosa , Amancio Alice Muglia Thomaz da Silva , Salim Anna Christina de Matos , Fernandes Gabriel da Rocha , Carneiro Cláudia Martins , Coimbra Roney Santos
Published: October 2023

Background

The interplay between bacterial virulence factors and the host innate immune response in pneumococcal meningitis (PM) can result in uncontrolled neuroinflammation, which is known to induce apoptotic death of progenitor cells and post-mitotic neurons in the hippocampal dentate gyrus, resulting in cognitive impairment. Vitamin B12 attenuates hippocampal damage and reduces the expression of some key inflammatory genes in PM, by acting as an epidrug that promotes DNA methylation, with increased production of S-adenosyl-methionine, the universal donor of methyl.

Material and methods

Eleven-day-old rats were infected with S. pneumoniae via intracisternal injection and then administered either vitamin B12 or a placebo. After 24 hours of infection, the animals were euthanized, and apoptosis in the hippocampal dentate gyrus, microglia activation, and the inflammatory infiltrate were quantified in one brain hemisphere. The other hemisphere was used for RNA-Seq and RT-qPCR analysis.

Results

In this study, adjuvant therapy with B12 was found to modulate the hippocampal transcriptional signature induced by PM in infant rats, mitigating the effects of the disease in canonical pathways related to the recognition of pathogens by immune cells, signaling via NF-kB, production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, migration of peripheral leukocytes into the central nervous system, and production of reactive species. Phenotypic analysis revealed that B12 effectively inhibited microglia activation in the hippocampus and reduced the inflammatory infiltrate in the central nervous system of the infected animals. These pleiotropic transcriptional effects of B12 that lead to neuroprotection are partly regulated by alterations in histone methylation markings. No adverse effects of B12 were predicted or observed, reinforcing the well-established safety profile of this epidrug.

Conclusion

B12 effectively mitigates the impact of PM on pivotal neuroinflammatory pathways. This leads to reduced microglia activation and inflammatory infiltrate within the central nervous system, resulting in the attenuation of hippocampal damage. The anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects of B12 involve the modulation of histone markings in hippocampal neural cells.
Experimental study on the eccentrically compressive performance of square masonry columns repaired with UHPC jackets
Authors: Zhang Yifei , Jiang Peng , Song Hezhao , Leng Jingchen , Chen Rui , Jiang Zhimei
Published: October 2023

Ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) is a new class of structural material with outstanding properties of high strength, excellent ductility, and durability, which has an extremely broad application field. To examine the rehabilitation potential of UHPC on the existing masonry structures, the mechanical behavior of square masonry columns strengthened with UHPC under eccentric loading was investigated in this paper. A total of six masonry columns with or without the confinement of UHPC jackets were axially and eccentrically loaded. The strengthening effectiveness of UHPC on masonry columns was explored in terms of failure mode, deformation capacity, and carrying capacity. The results showed that UHPC jacketing is a highly effective technique for strengthening masonry columns, significantly increasing both the load-carrying capacity and transverse deformability of eccentrically compressed masonry columns (up to 103.64% and 71.43%, respectively). Furthermore, the UHPC strengthening technique modified brittle damage in unconfined masonry columns. A theoretical calculation was carried out for determining the bearing capacity of masonry columns strengthened with UHPC under eccentric loading. The accuracy of the theoretical calculation method was verified by comparing the theoretical values with the experimental values. Thus, this study provides a theoretical basis for the practical application of masonry structures strengthened with UHPC.
Training future clinicians in telehealth competencies: outcomes of a telehealth curriculum and teleOSCEs at an academic medical center
Authors: Bajra Rika , Srinivasan Malathi , Torres Elise Cheng , Rydel Tracy , Schillinger Erika
Published: October 2023

Background

This study describes the program and learning outcomes of a telehealth skills curriculum based on the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) telehealth competencies for clerkship-level medical students.

Methods

A total of 133 third- and fourth-year medical students in a required family medicine clerkship at Stanford University School of Medicine participated in a telehealth curriculum, including a telehealth workshop, site-specific telehealth clinical encounters, and telemedicine objective structured clinical examinations (teleOSCEs) between July 2020 and August 2021. Their workshop communication and physical examination competencies were assessed in two teleOSCEs utilizing a novel telehealth assessment tool. Students' attitudes, skills, and self-efficacy were assessed through voluntary pre-clerkship, post-workshop, and post-OSCE surveys.

Discussion

Most learners reported low confidence in their telehealth physical examinations [n = 79, mean = 1.6 (scale 0–5, 5 = very confident, SD = 1.0)], which improved post-workshop [n = 69, 3.3 (0.9), p < 0.001]; almost all (97%, 70/72) felt the workshop prepared them to see patients in the clinic. In formative OSCEs, learners demonstrated appropriate “webside manner” (communication scores 94–99%, four items) but did not confirm confidentiality (21%) or review limitations of the visit (35%). In a low back pain OSCE, most learners assessed pain location (90%) and range of motion (87%); nearly half (48%) omitted strength testing.

Conclusion

Our telehealth curriculum demonstrated that telehealth competencies can be taught and assessed in medical student education. Improvement in self-efficacy scores suggests that an 80-min workshop can prepare students to see patients in the clinical setting. Assessment of OSCE data informs opportunities for growth for further development in the curriculum, including addressing visit limitations and confidentiality in telehealth visits.
Survival outcomes and mobilization during venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Rottmann Felix A. , Noe Christian , Bemtgen Xavier , Maier Sven , Supady Alexander , Wengenmayer Tobias , Staudacher Dawid L.
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-V ECMO) can be considered in critically ill patient in severe pulmonary failure. However, the mobilization of patients on V-V ECMO can be challenging due to logistic and safety concerns. This study aimed to investigate whether 30 days survival was improved in patients who were mobilized during V-V ECMO support.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort all-comer study that included all patients cannulated for V-V ECMO at a single center. Patients with a V-V ECMO duration below 24 h were excluded from the analysis. The patients were grouped based on the ICU mobility scale documented during V-V ECMO support. The primary endpoint was 30 days survival, and secondary endpoints included weaning from ECMO and mechanical ventilation, as well as hospital survival.

Results

A total of 343 patients were included in the study, with a median age of 56 years and 32% were female. Among them, 28% had chronic lung disease. The ICU mobilization scale ≥2 during ECMO was documented in 62/343 (18%) patients. There were no significant differences in age, gender and preexisting lung disease. Duration of ICU stay (13.1 vs. 15.6 days), time on ECMO (186 vs. 190 h) and mechanical ventilation (11.2 vs. 13.6 days) were slightly shorter in patients with ICU mobility scale <2 compared to those with ≥2 (all p = 0.0001). However, patients with ICU mobilization scale ≥2 showed significantly better 30 days survival (71.0 vs. 48.0%, OR 2.6 (1.5 to 4.8), p = 0.0012) compared to those with <2. In the ≥2 mobility scale group, a significantly higher number of patients were successfully weaned from the ventilator (61.3 vs. 46.6%, OR 1.8 (1.0 to 3.2), p = 0.049). A stronger correlation was observed between more intense mobilizations, such as being in a standing position (OR 5.0 (1.7 to 14.0), p = 0.0038), and higher 30 days survival.

Conclusion

The findings of this study suggest that active mobilization during V-V ECMO support is associated with improved 30 days survival and successful weaning from the respirator. Incorporating mobilization as part of the therapeutic approach during ECMO support may offer potential benefits for critically ill patients.
Integrating knowledge, skills, and attitudes: professional training required for virtual reality therapists in palliative care
Authors: Woo Olive K. L.
Published: October 2023

Fully immersive virtual reality (VR) is an advanced technology increasingly studied and used in palliative care for symptom management. While the findings shed a positive light on its therapeutic potential, VR carries adverse effects, leading to ethical concerns. Based on the clinical experiences of a registered clinical psychologist who is also a certified thanatologist, we put forward a perspective on the importance of professional training for VR therapists in view of the possible risks posed by VR in palliative care. We propose professional trainings on knowledge, skills, and attitudes to ensure patients’ safety while maximizing the therapeutic benefits of VR. Given the scarcity of reports on such an area, we hope this perspective article opens up discussions and contributes to current understanding and emerging future directions to ensure quality and ethical delivery of VR in palliative care.
Cabozantinib and IL-27 combinatorial therapy for bone-metastatic prostate cancer
Authors: Kumar Shreya , Mulia Grace E. , Figueiredo Marxa L.
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death among American men. Prostate tumor cells exhibit significant tropism for the bone and once metastasis occurs, survival rates fall significantly. Current treatment options are not curative and focus on symptom management. Immunotherapies are rapidly emerging as a possible therapeutic option for a variety of cancers including prostate cancer, however, variable patient response remains a concern. Chemotherapies, like cabozantinib, can have immune-priming effects which sensitize tumors to immunotherapies. Additionally, lower doses of chemotherapy can be used in this context which can reduce patient side effects. We hypothesized that a combination of chemotherapy (cabozantinib) and immunotherapy [Interleukin-27 (IL-27)] could be used to treat bone-metastatic prostate cancer and exert pro-osteogenic effects. IL-27 is a multi-functional cytokine, which promotes immune cell recruitment to tumors, while also promoting bone repair.

Methods: To test this hypothesis, in vivo experiments were performed where syngeneic C57BL/6J mice were implanted intratibially with TRAMP-C2ras-Luc cells that are able to form tumors in bone. Immunotherapy was administered in the form of intramuscular gene therapy, delivering plasmid DNA encoding a reporter gene (Lucia), and/or a therapeutic gene (IL-27). Sonoporation was used to aid gene delivery. Following immunotherapy, the animals received either cabozantinib or a vehicle control by oral gavage. Bioluminescence imaging was used to monitor tumor size over time.

Results: Combinatorial therapy inhibited tumor growth and improved survival. Further, RNA sequencing was used to investigate the mechanisms involved. Microcomputed tomography and differentiation assays indicated that the combination therapy improved bone quality by enhancing osteoblast differentiation and inhibiting osteoclast differentiation.

Discussion: Our conclusion is that a chemo-immunotherapy approach such as the one examined in this work has potential to emerge as a novel therapeutic strategy for treating bone-metastatic prostate cancer. This approach will enable a significant reduction in chemotherapy-associated toxicity, enhance sensitivity to immunotherapy, and improve bone quality.