bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk of hepatitis B virus reactivation in people with multiple sclerosis treated with ocrelizumab: an observational study from Turkey
Authors: Çelik Muammer , Baba Cavid , Irmak Çağlar , Özakbaş Serkan , Avkan-Oğuz Vildan
Published: April 2024

Background

The risk of hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation remains unclear in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) receiving ocrelizumab. We aimed to assess HBV seroprevalence and reactivation risk in MS patients on ocrelizumab and to evaluate the effectiveness of antiviral prophylaxis against HBV reactivation.

Methods

In this single-center, cross-sectional study, 400 people with MS receiving ocrelizumab were screened for HBV at baseline and antiviral prophylaxis was implemented based on serological results. Patients were monitored for HBV reactivation, and outcomes were analyzed.

Results

Among 56 (14%) patients who had serology compatible with occult or resolved HBV infection, 49 (85.7%) received antiviral prophylaxis regularly and had no HBV reactivation during the follow-up. Reactivation of HBV occurred in 2 out of 7 (28.6%) patients who did not receive antiviral prophylaxis and in one patient who did not adhere to the prophylaxis regimen. All patients with reactivation had anti-HBs levels below 100 mIU/mL and the median titer was significantly lower than the patients with no HBV reactivation (p = 0.034).

Conclusion

This study highlights a 14% anti-HBc positivity, indicating a potential risk for HBV reactivation in people with MS receiving ocrelizumab. This suggests the importance of vigilant monitoring and the implementation of prophylactic measures. Our recommendation emphasizes antiviral prophylaxis, particularly for patients with low anti-HBs, and a pre-emptive strategy for others.
Galaninergic and hypercapnia-activated neuronal projections to the ventral respiratory column
Authors: Dereli Ayse S. , Oh Alice Y. S. , McMullan Simon , Kumar Natasha N.
Published: April 2024

In mammals, the ventral respiratory column (VRC) plays a pivotal role in integrating neurochemically diverse inputs from brainstem and forebrain regions to generate respiratory motor patterns. VRC microinjection of the neuropeptide galanin has been reported to dampen carbon dioxide (CO2)-mediated chemoreflex responses. Additionally, we previously demonstrated that galaninergic neurons in the retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN) are implicated in the adaptive response to hypercapnic stimuli, suggesting a link between RTN neuroplasticity and increased neuronal drive to the VRC. VRC neurons express galanin receptor 1, suggesting potential regulatory action by galanin, however, the precise galaninergic chemoreceptor-VRC circuitry remains to be determined. This study aimed to identify sources of galaninergic input to the VRC that contribute to central respiratory chemoreception. We employed a combination of retrograde neuronal tracing, in situ hybridisation and immunohistochemistry to investigate VRC-projecting neurons that synthesise galanin mRNA. In an additional series of experiments, we used acute hypercapnia exposure (10% CO2, 1 h) and c-Fos immunohistochemistry to ascertain which galaninergic nuclei projecting to the VRC are activated. Our findings reveal that a total of 30 brain nuclei and 51 subnuclei project to the VRC, with 12 of these containing galaninergic neurons, including the RTN. Among these galaninergic populations, only a subset of the RTN neurons (approximately 55%) exhibited activation in response to acute hypercapnia. Our findings highlight that the RTN is the likely source of galaninergic transmission to the VRC in response to hypercapnic stimuli.
Effect of acute inflammatory reaction induced by biopsy on tumor microenvironment
Authors: Chen Yuanyuan , Liu Hualian , Sun Yadong
Published: April 2024

When it comes to the diagnosis of solid tumors, biopsy is always the gold standard. However, traumatic and inflammatory stimuli are so closely related to tumor initiation and development that the acute inflammatory response induced by biopsy can give rise to changes in the tumor microenvironment, including recruitment of immunosuppressive cells (M2 macrophages, Treg cells, Tumor-associated neutrophils) and secretion of inflammation-associated cytokines, to create immunosuppressive conditions that enable the increase of circulating tumor cells in the peripheral circulation and promote the metastatic spread of tumors after surgery. In this review, we discuss dynamic changes and inhibitory characteristics of biopsy on tumor microenvironment. By investigating its mechanism of action and summarizing the current therapeutic strategies for biopsy-induced tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment, the future of using biopsy-induced inflammation to improve the therapeutic effects and prognosis of patients is prospected.
Are children with IgA nephropathy different from adult patients?
Authors: Su Baige , Jiang Yuanyuan , Li Zhihui , Zhou Jianhua , Rong Liping , Feng Shipin , Zhong Fazhan , Sun Shuzhen , Zhang Dongfeng , Xia Zhengkun , Feng Chunyue , Huang Wenyan , Li Xiaoyan , Chen Chaoying , Hao Zhihong , Wang Mo , Qin Li , Chen Minguang , Li Yuanyuan , Ding Juanjuan , Bao Ying , Liu Xiaorong , Deng Fang , Cheng Xueqin , Zhang Li , Zhang Xuan , Yang Huandan , Peng Xiaojie , Sun Qianliang , Deng Linxia , Jiang Xiaoyun , Xie Min , Gao Yan , Yu Lichun , Liu Ling , Gao Chunlin , Mao Jianhua , Zheng Weihua , Dang Xiqiang , Xia Hua , Wang Yujie , Zhong Xuhui , Ding Jie , Lv Jicheng , Zhang Hong
Published: April 2024

Background

Previously, several studies have indicated that pediatric IgA nephropathy (IgAN) might be different from adult IgAN, and treatment strategies might be also different between pediatric IgAN and adult IgAN.

Methods

We analyzed two prospective cohorts established by pediatric and adult nephrologists, respectively. A comprehensive analysis was performed investigating the difference in clinical and pathological characteristics, treatment, and prognosis between children and adults with IgAN.

Results

A total of 1015 children and 1911 adults with IgAN were eligible for analysis. More frequent gross hematuria (88% vs. 20%, p < 0.0001) and higher proteinuria (1.8 vs. 1.3 g/d, p < 0.0001) were seen in children compared to adults. In comparison, the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was lower in adults (80.4 vs. 163 ml/min/1.73 m2, p < 0.0001). Hypertension was more prevalent in adult patients. Pathologically, a higher proportion of M1 was revealed (62% vs. 39%, p < 0.0001) in children than in adults. S1 (62% vs. 28%, p < 0.0001) and T1–2 (34% vs. 8%, p < 0.0001) were more frequent in adults. Adjusted by proteinuria, eGFR, and hypertension, children were more likely to be treated with glucocorticoids than adults (87% vs. 45%, p < 0.0001). After propensity score matching, in IgAN with proteinuria > 1 g/d, children treated with steroids were 1.87 (95% CI 1.16–3.02, p = 0.01) times more likely to reach complete remission of proteinuria compared with adults treated with steroids.

Conclusions

Children present significantly differently from adults with IgAN in clinical and pathological manifestations and disease progression. Steroid response might be better in children.

Graphical Abstract
Smooth approximation of Lipschitz domains, weak curvatures and isocapacitary estimates
Authors: Antonini Carlo Alberto
Published: April 2024

We provide a novel approach to approximate bounded Lipschitz domains via a sequence of smooth, bounded domains. The flexibility of our method allows either inner or outer approximations of Lipschitz domains which also possess weakly defined curvatures, namely, domains whose boundary can be locally described as the graph of a function belonging to the Sobolev space $$W^{2,q}$$

W

2
,
q

for some $$q\ge 1$$

q
≥
1

. The sequences of approximating sets is also characterized by uniform isocapacitary estimates with respect to the initial domain $$\Omega $$
Ω
.
Projected changes in rainfall and temperature using CMIP6 models over the Okavango River basin, southern Africa
Authors: Moses O.
Published: April 2024

The Okavango River Basin (ORB) which includes a renowned World Heritage site Okavango Delta, contains highly biodiverse ecosystems. Most of its rural population relies on rain-fed subsistence farming. Limited research has been done on future changes in rainfall and temperature in this region. Here, such changes are analysed for the periods 2030–2059 (near term) and 2070–2099 (long term), relative to the historical period 1985–2014. The analysis is based on the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6), under the shared socioeconomic pathways (SSPs) SSP245 and SSP585. The projected changes vary over the ORB. For rainfall, the models project some significant decreasing trends over Ngamiland in the central/southern ORB, but none are significant over the northern ORB. The significant trends during the near term period include those projected by the model average (-30.60 mm/decade) in March–April (MA) under the SSP585 scenario. Some significant decreasing rainfall trends have also been found in December-February (DJF), but none are significant in October–November (ON). DJF is the main growing season whereas ON (MA) is the onset (end) of the rainy season. For temperature, significant warming trends have been found over both Ngamiland and the northern ORB, with the strongest warming in ON particularly during the near term period. For this ON season over the northern ORB, under the SSP585 (SSP245) scenario, the model average projects a warming trend of 0.56 °C/decade (0.67 °C/decade). These findings may help with the management of agricultural activities, water resources and the highly biodiverse ecosystems in the ORB.
Prevalence, genotypes, and infection risk factors of psittacine beak and feather disease virus and budgerigar fledgling disease virus in captive birds in Hong Kong
Authors: Ko Jackie Cheuk Kei , Choi Yannes Wai Yan , Poon Emily Shui Kei , Wyre Nicole , Sin Simon Yung Wa
Published: April 2024

Psittacine beak and feather disease virus (PBFDV) and budgerigar fledgling disease virus (BFDV) are significant avian pathogens that threaten both captive and wild birds, particularly parrots, which are common hosts. This study involved sampling and testing of 516 captive birds from households, pet shops, and an animal clinic in Hong Kong for PBFDV and BFDV. The results showed that PBFDV and BFDV were present in 7.17% and 0.58% of the samples, respectively. These rates were lower than those reported in most parts of Asia. Notably, the infection rates of PBFDV in pet shops were significantly higher compared to other sources, while no BFDV-positive samples were found in pet shops. Most of the positive samples came from parrots, but PBFDV was also detected in two non-parrot species, including Swinhoe’s white-eyes (Zosterops simplex), which had not been reported previously. The ability of PBFDV to infect both psittacine and passerine birds is concerning, especially in densely populated urban areas such as Hong Kong, where captive flocks come into close contact with wildlife. Phylogenetic analysis of the Cap and Rep genes of PBFDV revealed that the strains found in Hong Kong were closely related to those in Europe and other parts of Asia, including mainland China, Thailand, Taiwan, and Saudi Arabia. These findings indicate the presence of both viruses among captive birds in Hong Kong. We recommend implementing regular surveillance for both viruses and adopting measures to prevent contact between captive and wild birds, thereby reducing the transmission of introduced diseases to native species.
Returning to work after maternity leave: a systematic literature review
Authors: Franzoi Isabella Giulia , Sauta Maria Domenica , De Luca Alessandra , Granieri Antonella
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Working women often experience difficulties associated with balancing family and career, particularly if they choose to have children. This systematic literature review aimed at investigating women’s experience in returning to work after maternity leave.

Methods

The review was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. The literature search led to the identification of 52 articles, which underwent data extraction and qualitative analysis.

Results

Results were organized in 5 categories: (1) Work-life balance; (2) Women’s mental and physical health; (3) Job-related wellbeing and working experience; (4) Breastfeeding. Women’s both mental and physical health seem connected to a longer maternity leave and a greater coworkers’ and supervisors’ support. Returning to work seems to constitute one of the most important barriers for exclusive breastfeeding or breastfeeding continuation. A shorter duration of maternity leave, a higher workload and the lack of occupational policies supporting breastfeeding seem to be hindering factors. Partner and family support, and the opportunity for fathers to work under a flextime system after childbirth seem to increase both breastfeeding initiation and duration. Women who continue breastfeeding after returning to work seem to experience more family-to-work conflict and overload.

Conclusions

This paper show that there are still many understudied aspects in exploring women’s experience of returning to work after maternity leave. This represents an important gap in the literature, since returning to work represents a particularly critical time in women’s personal and occupational life, in which challenges and barriers may arise, potentially affecting their experience in the immediate future and years to come.
Establishment of the mid-sagittal reference plane for three-dimensional assessment of facial asymmetry: a systematic review
Authors: Ajmera Deepal Haresh , Singh Pradeep , Leung Yiu Yan , Khambay Balvinder S. , Gu Min
Published: April 2024

Objective

To systematically review the literature for mid-sagittal plane establishment approaches to identify the most effective method for constructing the mid-sagittal plane for the evaluation of facial asymmetry.

Materials and methods

Six electronic databases (PubMed, Medline (via Ovid), EMBASE (via Ovid), Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus) and grey literature were searched for the studies that computed the mid-sagittal reference plane three-dimensionally, using a combination of MeSH terms and keywords. The methodological quality and the level of evidence for the included studies were analyzed using QUADAS-2 and GRADE, respectively.

Results

The preliminary search yielded 6746 records, of which 42 articles that met the predefined inclusion criteria were included in the final analysis. All the included articles reported the construction of the mid-sagittal reference plane (MSP) using varied methods. The risk of bias and concerns regarding the applicability of the included studies were judged to be ‘low’. The level of evidence was determined to be ‘low’ for the effectiveness of the technique and ‘moderate’ for the ease of clinical applicability.

Conclusion

Despite methodological heterogeneity, this review substantiates the comparable efficacy of cephalometric and morphometric MSP construction methods. A fully automated morphometric MSP holds promise as a viable option for routine clinical use. Nevertheless, future prospective studies with an emphasis on the impact, accuracy, and clinical applicability of MSP construction techniques in cases of facial asymmetry are required.

Clinical relevance

The present review will assist clinicians in selecting the most suitable method for MSP construction, leading to improved treatment planning and ultimately more favorable treatment outcomes.
Novel insights into the classification of Shamblin III carotid body tumors from a neurosurgical perspective
Authors: Ma Qianquan , Si Yu , Sun Mingyang , Yuan Wanzhong , Wu Chao , Han Yunfeng , Yin Xiaoliang , Yang Jun , Wang Tao
Published: April 2024

Background and purpose

The classic Shamblin system fails to provide valuable guidance in many Shamblin’s III carotid body tumors (III-CBTs) due to the variable forms of carotid arteries and the complex anatomic relationships in parapharyngeal space. We proposed a modified classification to separately divide III-CBTs into different subgroups on the basis of arterial relevant features and anatomical relevant features.

Materials and methods

From 2020 to 2023, a total of 129 III-CBTs at a single institution were retrospectively analyzed. All cases were independently classified as arterial-relevant and anatomical-relevant subgroups. The pre-, peri- and postoperative data were summarized and compared accordingly.

Results

Among the 129 cases, 69 cases were identified as “Classical type”, 23 cases as “Medial type”, 27 cases as “Lateral type” and 10 cases as “Enveloped type” according to arterial morphologies. Besides, 76 cases were identified as “Common type”, 15 cases as “Pharynx- invasion type”, 18 cases as “Skull base-invasion type” and 20 cases as “Mixed type” according to anatomical relationships. “Enveloped type” of tumors in arterial-relevant classification and “Mixed type” of tumors in anatomical-relevant classification are the most challenging cases for surgeons with the lowest resection rate, highest incidence of carotid arteries injury and postoperative stroke.

Conclusion

The modified classifications provide comprehensive understanding of different III-CBTs which are applicable for individualized treatment in clinical practice.
The performance of the EQ-HWB-S as a measure of quality-of-life of caregivers in families that have experienced adverse events
Authors: Bailey Cate , Dalziel Kim , Constable Leanne , Devlin Nancy J. , Hiscock Harriet , Skouteris Helen , Peasgood Tessa
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The recently developed EQ Health and Wellbeing Instrument (EQ-HWB) is a broad, generic measure of quality-of-life designed to be suitable for caregivers. The aim of this study was to investigate performance and validity of the 9-item version (EQ-HWB-S) for caregivers where families had experienced adverse-life-events.

Methods

Using survey data from caregivers of children aged 0–8 years attending a community-health centre in 2021–2022, the general performance, feasibility, convergent and known-group validity, responsiveness-to-change, and test–retest reliability of the EQ-HWB-S was assessed. Twelve semi-structured interviews were conducted with survey respondents to assess acceptability and content validity.

Results

The sample included  234 caregivers at baseline (81% female, mean age 36-years, 38% Australian-born) and 190 at 6-months follow-up. Most EQ-HWB-S item responses were evenly spread, except for ‘Mobility’. The instrument showed good convergent validity with psychological distress (Kessler 6 (K6)) and personal-wellbeing (PWI-A) scales. EQ-HWB-S level sum-scores and preference-weighted scores were significantly different in all known-group analyses, in expected directions, and the instrument was responsive to change. For test–retest reliability, Intraclass Correlation Coefficients were excellent and individual item Kappa scores were moderate. The instrument was well received by interviewees who found the questions clear and relevant. The items were appropriate for parents experiencing adversity and carers of children with additional needs.

Conclusion

The EQ-HWB-S appeared valid, responsive to change, feasible, and well accepted by caregivers. By demonstrating the validity of the EQ-HWB-S in this hard-to-reach population of caregivers in families experiencing adverse events, this study adds to existing international evidence supporting its use.
Associations between sleep quality and coping style among front-line nurses: a cross-sectional study in China
Authors: Wang Hui , Shen Jin-hua , Dai Jun , Zhu Jiang-xia , Tong Li , Zhang Xue-qing
Published: April 2024

Aims

Good sleep is crucial for healthcare professionals, especially nurses, to prevent errors and injuries that may occur during caregiving. This study investigated the sleep quality and coping styles of nurses during the post-pandemic period, as well as related factors.

Subject and methods

An online observational cross-sectional study involving 1022 nursing staff was conducted. Participants completed questionnaires on job characteristics, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Simplified Coping Style Questionnaire (SCSQ). Pearson’s correlation and multiple logistic regression analyses confirmed interactions between these factors.

Results

A total of 1022 nurses completed the survey, of whom 90.90% (n = 929) were female, and 87.38% were over 25 years old. The PSQI score was 10.51(2.23), and 91.1% (n = 931) of the nurses had sleep disturbances. In this study, we found that PSQI was associated with SCSQ. Multivariate analysis showed that age (36–40 years), frequency of night shifts (9–11 times/month, ≥ 12 times/month), and less humanistic care were risk factors for sleep disorders among night shift nurses (P < 0.05), whereas frequency of exercise (1 time/week), non-attendance of training and learning after night shifts, and SCSQ positivity were protective factors for sleep disorders (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Sleep quality of medical staff, especially nurses, was affected by shift work during the post-pandemic era. Designing the best strategy for employees who are more likely to have sleep disorders, such as experienced nurses, will support them through sleep hygiene education and strengthen the humanistic solicitude of nurses.
Imperfect adaptation by freshwater crocodiles to the invasion of a toxic prey species
Authors: Letnic Mike , Dempster Tim , Jessop Tim S. , Webb Jonathan K.
Published: April 2024

Novel interactions between invaders and native species that have evolved in their absence may impose strong selective pressures that drive species to extinction or prompt rapid co-evolution and learning. Here, we report on the effects that invasive cane toads, a toxic prey species, have had on freshwater crocodile populations in 7 waterholes of the Victoria River, Australia, before and up to 14 years after toads invaded. We recorded observations of crocodiles attacking toads, dissected dead crocodiles to determine if they had eaten toads and indexed the abundances of cane toads, live crocodiles and dead crocodiles. Following toad-invasion we observed crocodiles attacking cane toads. Dead crocodiles were only observed following the invasion of toads and 62% of the 71 dead crocodiles we dissected had toads in their stomachs. Counts of dead crocodiles showed a humped relationship with time since toad invasion and declined markedly after 3 years post-toad invasion. Live crocodile abundance declined sharply following toad-invasion, but this decline attenuated approximately 4 years post-invasion. The pulse of crocodile mortality and attenuation of the rate of crocodile population decline suggests that crocodiles have evolved or learned to enable co-existence with toads. However, crocodile populations have shown no sign of recovery in the 8–14 years post toad invasion. Our findings highlight that adaptation by native species to the presence of invaders may be imperfect and thus may not necessarily entail numerical recovery of populations to pre-invasion levels, but instead downward shifts to new equilibria due to ongoing interactions with invaders.
Correct Use of Oscillating-Cup Viscometers for High-Temperature Absolute Measurements of Newtonian Melts
Authors: Nunes Valentim M. B. , Lourenço Maria José V. , Nieto de Castro Carlos A.
Published: April 2024

Oscillating-body viscometers have been used in the past to measure, in an absolute way, the viscosity of molten materials at high temperatures, from salts, metals, alloys, and semiconductors. However, the simultaneous use of basic or incomplete mathematical models, to mimic the experiment, and less careful engineering solutions for the design and operation of the instruments, led in the past to high discrepancies between the data obtained in several laboratories. This was caused by the incorrect use of the method’s theory, less accurate solutions of the complex solutions, that involve solid state and fluid mechanics, and unreal instrument design. From these types of viscometers, oscillating-cup instruments have had the most success in measuring viscosity at high temperatures, and they will be the object of this paper. It was written as a resource for workers interested in transport properties of materials when considering its use for the absolute measurement of fluids viscosity in their work, or in judging the results of others' work when comparing data with their own. The paper starts with the most accurate theory of the method’s description, followed by a discussion of its validity, application to instrument design, and consequent operation. Several constraints were identified and recommendations were made to minimize the effects of failing to satisfy them. Finally, a discussion about the uncertainty budget calculations for a real experiment is made. If all these points are followed in the design and operation of the instrument, results in global uncertainties Ur(η) between 0.02 and 0.04 are possible to obtain, up to high temperatures. If these constraints are not satisfied, erroneous measurements can be made, making comparisons and quality assessment difficult.
Teachers’ Ideas about what and how they Contribute to the Development of Students’ Ethical Compasses. An Empirical Study among Teachers of Dutch Universities of Applied Sciences
Authors: Van Stekelenburg Lieke , Smerecnik Chris , Sanderse Wouter , De Ruyter Doret J.
Published: April 2024

In this empirical study, we investigate what and how teachers in Dutch universities of applied sciences (UAS) think they contribute to the development of students’ ethical compasses. Six focus groups were conducted with teachers across three programmes: Initial Teaching Education, Business Services, and Information and Communication Technology. This study revealed that teachers across the three different professional disciplines shared similar ideas about what should be addressed in the development of students’ ethical compasses. Their contributions were grouped into three core themes: creating students’ moral awareness, developing students’ moral skills and promoting students’ moral professional behaviour. The majority of the teachers used a wide range of planned and unplanned pedagogic–didactic actions (reflecting individual learning and cooperative and group learning) to enhance the development of students’ ethical compasses. However, teachers’ strategies were mostly unstructured and unreflective and depended on the individual teacher’s ability and knowledge to address moral themes. Furthermore, the study revealed two incompatible ideals: as role models, the teachers aimed to exemplify explicitly how to be a professional with an ethical compass. However, they also wanted to adopt a neutral stance because they were afraid to manipulate the students’ ethical compasses. Therefore, they avoided promoting the ethical compass that they believed to be the best.
Ursodeoxycholic and chenodeoxycholic bile acids attenuate systemic and liver inflammation induced by lipopolysaccharide in rats
Authors: Milivojac T , Grabež M , Krivokuća A , Maličević U , Gajić Bojić M , Đukanović Đ , Uletilović S , Mandić-Kovačević N , Cvjetković T , Barudžija M , Vojinović N , Šmitran A , Amidžić Lj , Stojiljković MP , Čolić M , Mikov M , Škrbić R
Published: April 2024

Bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induces general inflammation, by activating pathways involving cytokine production, blood coagulation, complement system activation, and acute phase protein release. The key cellular players are leukocytes and endothelial cells, that lead to tissue injury and organ failure. The aim of this study was to explore the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cytoprotective properties of two bile acids, ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) and chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) in LPS-induced endotoxemia in rats. The experiment involved six distinct groups of Wistar rats, each subjected to different pretreatment conditions: control and LPS groups were pretreated with propylene glycol, as a bile acid solvent, while the other groups were pretreated with UDCA or CDCA for 10 days followed by an LPS injection on day 10. The results showed that both UDCA and CDCA reduced the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines: TNF-α, GM-CSF, IL-2, IFNγ, IL-6, and IL-1β and expression of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) induced by LPS. In addition, pretreatment with these bile acids showed a positive impact on lipid profiles, a decrease in ICAM levels, an increase in antioxidant activity (SOD, |CAT, GSH), and a decrease in prooxidant markers (H2O2 and O2–). Furthermore, both bile acids alleviated LPS-induced liver injury. While UDCA and CDCA pretreatment attenuated homocysteine levels in LPS-treated rats, only UDCA pretreatment showed reductions in other serum biochemical markers, including creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase, and high-sensitivity troponin I. It can be concluded that both, UDCA and CDCA, although exerted slightly different effects, can prevent the inflammatory responses induced by LPS, improve oxidative stress status, and attenuate LPS-induced liver injury.
Enhanced adsorption of phenolic compounds using biomass-derived high surface area activated carbon: Isotherms, kinetics and thermodynamics
Authors: Patil Praveengouda , Jeppu Gautham , Vallabha Manjunath Singanodi , Girish Chikmagalur Raju
Published: April 2024

The progress of industrial and agricultural pursuits, along with the release of inadequately treated effluents especially phenolic pollutant, has amplified the pollution load on environment. These organic compounds pose considerable challenges in both drinking water and wastewater systems, given their toxicity, demanding high oxygen and limited biodegradability. Thus, developing an eco-friendly, low-cost and highly efficient adsorbent to treat the organic pollutants has become an important task. The present investigation highlights development of a novel adsorbent (CFPAC) by activation of Cassia fistula pod shell for the purpose of removing phenol and 2,4-dichlorophnenol (2,4-DCP). The significant operational factors (dosage, pH, concentration, temperature, speed) were also investigated. The factors such as pH = 2 and T = 20°C were found to be significant at 1.6 g/L and 0.6 g/L dosage for phenol and 2,4-DCP respectively. Batch experiments were further conducted to study isotherms, kinetic and thermodynamics studies for the removal of phenol and 2,4-DCP. The activated carbon was characterised as mesoporous (specific surface area 1146 m2/g, pore volume = 0.8628 cc/g), amorphous and pHPZC = 6.4. At optimum conditions, the maximum sorption capacity for phenol and 2,4-DCP were 183.79 mg/g and 374.4 mg/g respectively. The adsorption isotherm was better conformed to Redlich Peterson isotherm (phenol) and Langmuir isotherm (2,4-DCP). The kinetic study obeyed pseudo-second-order type behaviour for both the pollutants with R2 > 0.999. The thermodynamic studies and the value of isosteric heat of adsorption for both the pollutants suggested that the adsorption reaction was dominated by physical adsorption (ΔHx < 80 kJ/mol). Further, the whole process was feasible, exothermic and spontaneous in nature. The overall studies suggested that the activated carbon synthesised from Cassia fistula pods can be a promising adsorbent for phenolic compounds.

Graphical Abstract
Effects of availability of diagnostic and non-diagnostic cues on the accuracy of teachers’ judgments of students’ text comprehension
Authors: van de Pol Janneke , Rowan Eleanor , Janssen Eva , van Gog Tamara
Published: April 2024

Accurately judging students’ comprehension is a key professional competence for teachers. It is crucial for adapting instruction to students’ needs and thereby promoting student learning. According to the cue-utilization framework, the accuracy of teachers’ judgments depends on how predictive (or diagnostic) the information (or cues) that teachers use to make judgments is of student performance. It is, however, unclear from prior studies if merely providing access to diagnostic cues aids accuracy, or whether this only helps if non-diagnostic cues are unavailable or ignored. Therefore, we investigated, using a within-subjects experimental design, the accuracy of secondary school teachers’ (N = 33) judgments of anonymous students’ text comprehension under four cue availability conditions: 1) non-diagnostic cues only; 2) diagnostic cues only; 3) a mix of diagnostic and non-diagnostic cues; and, 4) after an intervention informing them of the diagnosticity of cues, again a mix of diagnostic and non-diagnostic cues. Access to diagnostic cues enhanced teachers’ judgment accuracy, while access to non-diagnostic cues hindered it. While teachers’ judgment accuracy was not enhanced by the intervention (presumably because it was already relatively high), their diagnostic cue utilization increased, and non-diagnostic cue utilization decreased. In addition, teachers’ calibration increased after the intervention: They knew better when their judgments were (in)accurate. Furthermore, teachers were quite aware that diagnostic cues are diagnostic, but their awareness that non-diagnostic cues (especially students’ interest) are not, could be improved. These results could be useful in designing effective interventions to further foster teachers’ judgment accuracy.
A Forgotten Maritime Highway: Maritime Cultural Heritage of the Emperor Seamounts with Implications for High Seas Conservation
Authors: Delgado James P. , Brennan Michael L. , Stokes Emily , Wagner Daniel
Published: April 2024

This article seeks to complement efforts to summarize information on the exceptional natural significance of the Emperor Seamounts. The human history of the Emperor Seamounts is culturally diverse and spans thousands of years. This ranges from indigenous cultures to the period of European colonial exploration and expansion to the rise of the modern global economy and its impact on the area through the hunting of marine mammals, fishing, and the transportation of commodities across these remote waters on ships. Some of these vessels were wrecked or disappeared, and may rest on the seabed of the Emperor Seamounts. Understanding this human history is critical in approaching the assessment, ongoing study, public outreach and management of this remote region, which has been highlighted as one of the most important areas beyond national jurisdiction to protect globally.
Strategies to Improve Drug Delivery Across the Blood–Brain Barrier for Glioblastoma
Authors: Narsinh Kazim H. , Perez Edgar , Haddad Alexander F. , Young Jacob S. , Savastano Luis , Villanueva-Meyer Javier E. , Winkler Ethan , de Groot John
Published: April 2024

Purpose of Review

Glioblastoma remains resistant to most conventional treatments. Despite scientific advances in the past three decades, there has been a dearth of effective new treatments. New approaches to drug delivery and clinical trial design are needed.

Recent Findings

We discuss how the blood–brain barrier and tumor microenvironment pose challenges for development of effective therapies for glioblastoma. Next, we discuss treatments in development that aim to overcome these barriers, including novel drug designs such as nanoparticles and antibody–drug conjugates, novel methods of drug delivery, including convection-enhanced and intra-arterial delivery, and novel methods to enhance drug penetration, such as blood–brain barrier disruption by focused ultrasound and laser interstitial thermal therapy. Lastly, we address future opportunities, positing combination therapy as the best strategy for effective treatment, neoadjuvant and window-of-opportunity approaches to simultaneously enhance therapeutic effectiveness with interrogation of on-treatment biologic endpoints, and adaptive platform and basket trials as imperative for future trial design.

New approaches to GBM treatment should account for the blood-brain barrier and immunosuppression by improving drug delivery, combining treatments, and integrating novel clinical trial designs.
Efficacy and Tolerability of Intranasal Midazolam Administration for Antiseizure Treatment in Adults: A Systematic Review
Authors: Dittrich Tolga D. , Vock Dominik , Fisch Urs , Hert Lisa , Baumann Sira M. , Kliem Paulina S.C. , Rüegg Stephan , Marsch Stephan , De Marchis Gian Marco , Sutter Raoul
Published: April 2024

Objective

The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy and tolerability of intranasal midazolam (in-MDZ) administration for antiseizure treatment in adults.

Methods

Embase and Medline literature databases were searched. We included randomized trials and cohort studies (excluding case series) of adult patients (≥ 18 years of age) examining in-MDZ administration for epilepsy, epileptic seizures, or status epilepticus published in English between 1985 and 2022. Studies were screened for eligibility based on predefined criteria. The primary outcome was the efficacy of in-MDZ administration, and the secondary outcome was its tolerability. Extracted data included study design, patient characteristics, intervention details, and outcomes. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool.

Results

A total of 12 studies with 929 individuals treated with in-MDZ were included. Most studies were retrospective, with their number increasing over time. Administered in-MDZ doses ranged from 2.5 to 20 mg per single dose. The mean proportion of successful seizure termination after first in-MDZ administration was 72.7% (standard deviation [SD] 18%), and the proportion of seizure recurrence or persistent seizures ranged from 61 to 75%. Most frequent adverse reactions to in-MDZ were dizziness (mean 23.5% [SD 38.6%]), confusion (one study; 17.4%), local irritation (mean 16.6% [SD 9.6%]), and sedation (mean 12.7% [SD 9.7%]).

Conclusions

Administration of in-MDZ seems promising for the treatment of prolonged epileptic seizures and seizure clusters in adults. Limited evidence suggests that intranasal administration is safe. Further research is warranted because of the heterogeneity of cohorts, the variation in dosages, and the lack of uniformity in defining successful seizure termination.
Modification of response reduction factors of overhead water tanks based on ductility factor
Authors: Pandian Antony Vimal Paul , Arunachalam Krishna Prakash , Avudaiappan Siva , Jasmin S. Sahaya , Romero Lenin Miguel Bendezu , Awoyera Paul O.
Published: April 2024

In the earthquake-resistant design of overhead tanks, this research dealt with the determination of the response reduction factor applicable to overhead water tanks performing beyond the elastic limit. Eight existing water tanks were selected for the investigation and 127 ground accelerations due to 10 Indian earthquakes were selected. The magnitude of the earthquakes selected ranges from 4.5 to 7.2. Initially, 10.16 million nonlinear dynamic data of response reduction factor had been produced using Newmark’s β method by varying parameters. From the results obtained, multi-linear regression analysis was made to arrive at the empirical formula relating the parameters and it was found that ductility factor was the most significant factor among others such as damping ratio, pre-post stiffness ratio, natural period, and soil types, in influencing response reduction factor. Eventually, It is concluded that the values of the response reduction factor to be adopted in the dynamic analysis of Overhead water tanks should be based on the desired value of the ductility factor.
Exploring the chemical properties and microstructural characterisations of hybrid asphalt binders for enhanced performance
Authors: Mior Sani Wan Noor Hin , Jaya Ramadhansyah Putra , Masri Khairil Azman , Saptaji Kushendarsyah , Dulaimi Anmar
Published: April 2024

Approximately 3 billion metric tonnes of garbage involving industrial and agricultural waste is expected to be generated by 2030, posing a significant environmental hazard. Notably, recycling or reusing asphalt modification components (palm oil fuel ash (POFA), garnet waste, and sawdust) in pavement construction encounter ongoing challenges. This study comprehensively assessed the chemical characteristics and microstructure analysis of individual wastes and various hybrid asphalt binder and mixtures incorporated with these components. The mixture consisted of asphalt grade 60/70 blended with varying amounts (0%, 3%, 6%, and 9%) of POFA, garnet waste, and sawdust. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses were also employed to examine the chemical compositions of the raw waste materials. Meanwhile, the microstructure properties of various hybrid asphalt binder mixtures were analysed utilising Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). Consequently, this study presented that the correlation between the 6% POFA, 6% garnet waste, and 6% sawdust substantially impacted the chemical composition and morphology of the mixture. The findings of this study demonstrated that including POFA, garnet waste, and sawdust in a hybrid asphalt binder and mixture could enhance performance and engineering properties.
Not so simple: evaluating consequences validity evidence for a workplace-based assessment in surgery
Authors: Zhao Nina W. , Haddock Lindsey M. , O’Brien Bridget C.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Workplace-based assessments (WBAs) of trainee operative skills are widely used in surgical education as formative assessments to facilitate feedback for learning, but the evidence to support this purpose is mixed. Further evaluation of the consequences of assessment use and score interpretation is needed to understand if there is alignment between the intended and actual impacts of assessment. This study examines consequences validity evidence for an operative WBA, exploring whether WBA use is consistent with the goals of formative assessment for learning.

Methods

Eight residents and 9 faculty within the Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery at a tertiary institution completed semi-structured interviews after participating in a pilot of a surgical WBA, the System for Improving and Measuring Procedural Learning in the OR (SIMPL OR). Residents received feedback from attendings via both scores (performance and autonomy ratings) and recorded dictations. Interview questions explored faculty and resident perceptions of feedback behaviors and perceived impacts on their teaching or learning practices. Three researchers analyzed transcripts using directed qualitative content analysis to generate themes and evaluated how the perceived impacts aligned with formative purposes for assessment and score use.

Results

Both faculty and residents identified intended impacts of formative assessment, including (1) greater emphasis on feedback, (2) support for a postoperative feedback routine, and (3) facilitation of case-specific reflection. Residents also used score and verbal feedback for (1) calibrating case perceptions and (2) benchmarking performance to an external standard. The recorded dictations supported feedback by (1) providing context for ratings, (2) facilitating review of dictated feedback, and (3) prompting faculty for deliberate feedback. Unintended impacts included: (1) emotional discomfort during the assessment process, (2) increased feedback frequency but not diversity or quality, (3) inadequate support for feedback conversations, and (4) limited next steps for teaching or learning. Assessment usage declined over the pilot period.

Conclusions

The validity evidence gathered in this study suggests an operative WBA can be used for formative purposes to improve perceptions of feedback, but unintended consequences and implementation challenges limited ultimate impacts on teaching and learning. User perspectives can add important elements to consequences validity evidence and should be further evaluated in different implementation settings to better understand how WBAs can achieve their formative goals.
Structure and complexation mechanism of aqueous Zn(II)-acetate complex studied by XAFS and Raman spectroscopies
Authors: Munoz-Noval Alvaro , Fukami Kazuhiro , Kuruma Takuya , Hayakawa Shinjiro
Published: April 2024

In this work, the structure of Zn acetate has been determined by a combination of X-ray absorption fine structure and Raman spectroscopy. We have analyzed the local atomic environment and the main vibrational bands of the acetate and Zn acetate at different pH. The results suggest that Zn acetate complex acquires a bidentate structure that modifies its first coordination shell. Meanwhile, the coordination shell of the hydrated Zn cation is formed by 6 hydroxides at a mean distance of 2.06 Å, the coordination shell of the Zn cation in the complex is formed by 2 hydroxides and 2 oxygens from the carboxyl group of the acetate, at a mean Zn–O distance of 1.96 Å. The structure of the Zn acetate complex is compared to those of Zn malonate and Zn citrate, none of which present a reduction in the coordination shell neither a shrinkage of the Zn–O shell distance.

Graphical abstract
Breaking barriers in trauma research: A narrative review of opportunities to leverage veterinary trauma for accelerated translation to clinical solutions for pets and people
Authors: Hall Kelly E. , Tucker Claire , Dunn Julie A. , Webb Tracy , Watts Sarah A. , Kirkman Emrys , Guillaumin Julien , Hoareau Guillaume L. , Pidcoke Heather F.
Published: April 2024

Trauma is a common cause of morbidity and mortality in humans and companion animals. Recent efforts in procedural development, training, quality systems, data collection, and research have positively impacted patient outcomes; however, significant unmet need still exists. Coordinated efforts by collaborative, translational, multidisciplinary teams to advance trauma care and improve outcomes have the potential to benefit both human and veterinary patient populations. Strategic use of veterinary clinical trials informed by expertise along the research spectrum (i.e., benchtop discovery, applied science and engineering, large laboratory animal models, clinical veterinary studies, and human randomized trials) can lead to increased therapeutic options for animals while accelerating and enhancing translation by providing early data to reduce the cost and the risk of failed human clinical trials. Active topics of collaboration across the translational continuum include advancements in resuscitation (including austere environments), acute traumatic coagulopathy, trauma-induced coagulopathy, traumatic brain injury, systems biology, and trauma immunology. Mechanisms to improve funding and support innovative team science approaches to current problems in trauma care can accelerate needed, sustainable, and impactful progress in the field. This review article summarizes our current understanding of veterinary and human trauma, thereby identifying knowledge gaps and opportunities for collaborative, translational research to improve multispecies outcomes. This translational trauma group of MDs, PhDs, and DVMs posit that a common understanding of injury patterns and resulting cellular dysregulation in humans and companion animals has the potential to accelerate translation of research findings into clinical solutions.