bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuroblastoma Predisposition and Surveillance—An Update from the 2023 AACR Childhood Cancer Predisposition Workshop
Authors: Kamihara Junne , Diller Lisa R. , Foulkes William D. , Michaeli Orli , Nakano Yoshiko , Pajtler Kristian W. , Perrino Melissa , Scollon Sarah R. , Stewart Douglas R. , Voss Stephan , Weksberg Rosanna , Hansford Jordan R. , Brodeur Garrett M.
Published: June 2024

Genetic predisposition to neuroblastoma (NB) is relatively rare. Only 1% to 2% of patients have a family history of NB, 3% to 4% of cases present with bilateral or multifocal primary tumors, and occasional patients have syndromes that are associated with increased NB risk. Previously, a germline pathogenic variant (GPV) in PHOX2B was associated with Hirschsprung disease and congenital central hypoventilation syndrome. Recently, certain GPVs were shown to be responsible for congenital central hypoventilation syndrome and NB predisposition. Also, several groups determined that activating GPVs in ALK accounted for a substantial number of familial NB. Finally, there are additional genes and cancer predisposition syndromes in which NB occurs with greater frequency or that have been associated with NB based on genome-wide association studies. We review the evidence for all these genes and whether there is sufficient evidence to warrant surveillance. We review recommended surveillance for hereditary patients with NB, including minor updates to surveillance recommendations that were published previously in 2017.
Data from Hemangiosarcoma Cells Promote Conserved Host-derived Hematopoietic Expansion
Authors: Kim Jong Hyuk , Schulte Ashley J. , Sarver Aaron L. , Lee Donghee , Angelos Mathew G. , Frantz Aric M. , Forster Colleen L. , O'Brien Timothy D. , Cornax Ingrid , O'Sullivan M. Gerard , Cheng Nuojin , Lewellen Mitzi , Oseth LeAnn , Kumar Sunil , Bullman Susan , Pedamallu Chandra Sekhar , Goyal Sagar M. , Meyerson Matthew , Lund Troy C. , Breen Matthew , Lindblad-Toh Kerstin , Dickerson Erin B. , Kaufman Dan S. , Modiano Jaime F.
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Hemangiosarcoma and angiosarcoma are soft-tissue sarcomas of blood vessel–forming cells in dogs and humans, respectively. These vasoformative sarcomas are aggressive and highly metastatic, with disorganized, irregular blood-filled vascular spaces. Our objective was to define molecular programs which support the niche that enables progression of canine hemangiosarcoma and human angiosarcoma. Dog-in-mouse hemangiosarcoma xenografts recapitulated the vasoformative and highly angiogenic morphology and molecular characteristics of primary tumors. Blood vessels in the tumors were complex and disorganized, and they were lined by both donor and host cells. In a series of xenografts, we observed that the transplanted hemangiosarcoma cells created exuberant myeloid hyperplasia and gave rise to lymphoproliferative tumors of mouse origin. Our functional analyses indicate that hemangiosarcoma cells generate a microenvironment that supports expansion and differentiation of hematopoietic progenitor populations. Furthermore, gene expression profiling data revealed hemangiosarcoma cells expressed a repertoire of hematopoietic cytokines capable of regulating the surrounding stromal cells. We conclude that canine hemangiosarcomas, and possibly human angiosarcomas, maintain molecular properties that provide hematopoietic support and facilitate stromal reactions, suggesting their potential involvement in promoting the growth of hematopoietic tumors.
Significance:
We demonstrate that hemangiosarcomas regulate molecular programs supporting hematopoietic expansion and differentiation, providing insights into their potential roles in creating a permissive stromal-immune environment for tumor progression.
Psychological, Psychiatric, and Organic Brain Manifestations of Celiac Disease
Authors: Ciaccio Edward J. , Lee Anne R. , Lebovits Jessica , Wolf Randi L. , Lewis Suzanne K. , Ciacci Carolina , Green Peter H.R.
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition that affects approximately 1% of the population worldwide. Although its main impact often concerns the small intestine, resulting in villous atrophy and nutrient malabsorption, it can also cause systemic manifestations, particularly when undiagnosed or left untreated. Method: Attention is directed to the possible psychological, psychiatric, and organic brain manifestations of celiac disease. Specific topics related to the influence and risk of such manifestations with respect to celiac disease are defined and discussed. Overall, eighteen main topics are considered, sifted from over 500 references. Results: The most often studied topics were found to be the effect on quality of life, organic brain dysfunction and ataxia, epilepsy, Down syndrome, generalized psychological disorders, eating dysfunction, depression, and schizophrenia. For most every topic, although many studies report a connection to celiac disease, there are often one or more contrary studies and opinions. A bibliographic analysis of the cited articles was also done. There has been a sharp increase in interest in this research since 1990. Recently published articles tend to receive more referencing, up to as many as 15 citations per year, suggesting an increasing impact of the topics. The number of manuscript pages per article has also tended to increase, up to as many as 12 pages. The impact factor of the publishing journal has remained level over the years. Conclusion: This compendium may be useful in developing a consensus regarding psychological, psychiatric, and organic brain manifestations that can occur in celiac disease and for determining the best direction for ongoing research focus.
The Incidence and Outcomes of Venous Thromboembolisms in Patients Admitted with Different Gastrointestinal Malignancies
Authors: Darweesh Mohammad , Haddaden Metri , Fatima Zainab , Mansour Mahmoud , Dalbah Rami , Fahmawi Suhib , Mahfouz Ratib , Obeidat Adham E. , Gajjar Bhavesh
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality in cancer patients. Our study compares the mortality in hospitalized VTE patients among the four most common Gastrointestinal (GI) malignancies which includes esophageal, gastric, pancreatic, colorectal cancer.

Methods: A retrospective study was conducted utilizing the Nationwide Inpatient Sample database (NIS) from 2016 to 2019. Patients with Venous thromboembolism (VTE) were identified using ICD-10 codes from all primary discharge diagnoses. Only deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) were considered. Patients with VTE were further divided into groups: esophageal cancer, gastric cancer, pancreatic cancer, colorectal cancer, and compared with patients who did not have these malignancies. Adjusted odds ratio (aOR) was calculated using multivariate regression analysis.

Results: Among 999,559 patients discharged with a VTE diagnosis, 25,775 (2.6%) had one of the four GI malignancies. Among patients with one of the four included GI malignancy diagnosis, 18,816 (73%) patients had PE and 6,959 (27%) patients had DVT. The study shows that adults admitted to the hospitals for VTE have higher mortality when compared to patients who did not have GI malignancies, with esophageal cancer having the highest inpatient mortality with an aOR of 2.701; 95% Confidence interval (CI) 1.989-3.669, P-value < 0.000. For the remaining GI cancers, gastric cancer had an aOR 1.576; CI 1.094-2.269, P-value 0.015, pancreatic cancer had an aOR of 1.736; 95% CI 1.445-2.085, P-value < 0.000). Patients with colorectal cancer had no significant increase in the odds of mortality with aOR of 1.213; 95% CI 0.988-1.489, P-value 0.066.

Conclusions: This study demonstrates that VTE in hospitalized patients with esophageal cancer is associated with greater mortality compared to other GI malignancies.
TLR9 dependent activation by inactivated parapoxvirus ovis (iPPVO) in murine bone marrow-derived dendritic cells is associated with specific strain-dependent dendritic cell subsets
Authors: Du Yanqin , Sun Hang , Bhattacharjee Sonakshi , Birkmann Alexander , Dittmer Ulf , Lu Mengji
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Inactivated parapoxvirus ovis (iPPVO) exerts strong immunomodulatory effects on innate immune cells, making it an attractive therapeutic candidate. However, little is known about the signaling pathways involvIing in iPPVO-induced immune responses. Methods: In this study, we systematically analyzed how different types of dendritic cells (DCs) react to iPPVO (Zylexis, strain D1710) in both BALB/c and C57BL/c mice by Flow cytometry and ELISAs, and investigated which signaling pathway is related to DC activation by Western blotting and Protein profiling. Results: We demonstrated that bone marrow-derived conventional DCs (BM-cDCs) and bone marrow-derived plasmacytoid DCs (BM-pDCs) matured and secreted IFN-α/β in response to Zylexis stimulation in both mouse strains. Similarly, Zylexis promoted the secretion of IL-12/23p40 and TNF by pDCs. However, IL-12/23p40 and TNF secretion by cDCs was induced in BALB/c mice but not in C57BL/6 mice. Analyzing the underlying signaling pathways revealed that iPPVO-induced maturation of cDCs was TLR9 independent, while the maturation of pDCs partially depended on the TLR9 pathway. Moreover, the production of proinflammatory cytokines by cDCs and the secretion IFN-α/β by pDCs partially depended on the TLR9 pathway in both mouse strains. Therefore, other signaling pathways seem to participate in the response of DCs to iPPVO, supported by protein profiling.Conclusion: Our data provide useful insights into the diversity of iPPVO sensors and their varying effects across different strains and species.
Spectrum of Nondiabetic Kidney Diseases in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Who Underwent Kidney Biopsy in Egypt
Authors: Kaawele Salem , Elkeraie Ahmed Fathy , Youssef Eman , Elrggal Mohamed , Elrggal Mahmoud , Zyada Rowan , Esmail Wessam
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) affects 30–40% of patients with diabetes. The prevalence of nondiabetic kidney disease (NDKD) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) in Egypt is unknown. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of NDKD in patients with T2D in Egypt. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we searched the data of patients with T2D who underwent a native kidney biopsy between January 2010 and December 2020 in a kidney pathology laboratory in Egypt. Results: Of 12,006 patients who underwent kidney biopsy, 677 patients had T2D. NDKD was found in 285 patients (42.7%), DKD in 220 patients (33%), and mixed DKD and NDKD in 162 patients (24.3%). The total prevalence of NDKD was 67% in patients with T2D in our study group. Membranous nephropathy was the most common histopathological disease in patients with NDKD (20.6%) followed by acute tubular injury (ATI) (19.2%) and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (15.2%). The presence of ATI in a kidney biopsy was associated with a significantly higher mean serum creatine level (p < 0.001). Minimal change disease was associated with a significantly higher proteinuria level (p < 0.001). In binary logistic regression analysis, combining NDKD and mixed groups, the duration of diabetes was a negative predictor of NDKD, with a longer duration decreasing the likelihood of NDKD. Conclusion: NDKD is prevalent among patients with T2D who underwent a kidney biopsy. Kidney biopsy remains the gold standard for diagnosing NDKD in patients with T2D.
Challenges in Psoriasis Research: A Systematic Review of Preclinical Models
Authors: Ubago-Rodríguez Ana , Quiñones-Vico María I. , Sánchez-Díaz Manuel , Sanabria-de la Torre Raquel , Sierra-Sánchez Álvaro , Montero-Vílchez Trinidad , Fernández-González Ana , Arias-Santiago Salvador
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with variable clinical presentation, multifactorial etiology and an immunogenetic basis. Several studies demonstrate that it results from a dysregulated interaction between skin keratinocytes, immune cells, and the environment that leads to a persistent inflammatory process modulated by cytokines and T cells. The development of new treatment options requires increased understanding of pathogenesis. However, the successful implementation of effective drugs requires well-characterized and highly available preclinical models that allow researchers to quickly and reproducibly determine their safety and efficacy. Methods: A systematic search on PubMed and Scopus databases was performed and assessed to find appropriate articles about psoriasis models applying the key words previously defined. The PRISMA guidelines were employed. Results: A total of 45 original articles were selected that met the selection criteria. Among these, there are articles on in vivo, in vitro, and ex vivo models, with the in vitro model being the majority due to its ease of use. Within animal models, the most widely used in recent years are chemically induced models using a compound known as imiquimod. However, the rest of the animal models used throughout the disease’s research were also discussed. On the other hand, in vitro models were divided into two and three dimensions. The latter were the most used due to their similarity to human skin. Lastly, the ex vivo models were discussed, although they were the least used due to their difficulty in obtaining them. Conclusions: Therefore, this review summarizes the current preclinical models (in vivo, in vitro, and ex vivo), discussing how to develop them, their advantages, limitations, and applications. There are many challenges to improve the development of the different models. However, research in these in vitro model studies could reduce the use of animals. This is favored with the use of future technologies such as 3D bioprinting or organ-on-a-chip technologies.
The Effectiveness of Digital Interactive Intervention on Reducing Older Adults’ Depressive and Anxiety Symptoms: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Shi Xinyu , Zhang Jiaxin , Wang Hailiang , Luximon Yan
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Anxiety and depression are prevalent among older adults, and digital interactive interventions have shown promise in promoting their mental well-being. However, limited research has explored the effects of different types of digital interactive interventions across various devices on anxiety and depression in older adults with different health conditions. Methods: A systematic literature review and meta-analysis were conducted using seven selected databases to identify relevant studies up to July 19, 2023. Two reviewers independently conducted study selection, data extraction, and quality appraisals. The risk of bias in the included studies was assessed using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. For the meta-analysis, the effect size was calculated as the standardized mean difference (SMD) using a random-effects model. Results: A total of 20 randomized control trails involving 1,309 older adults fulfilled inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis results demonstrates that the digital interactive intervention technologies had a significance on depression (SMD = −0.656 s, 95% confidence interval [CI] = −0.992 to −0.380, p < 0.001) and anxiety (SMD = −0.381 s, 95% CI = −0.517 to −0.245, p < 0.001). Physical interactive interventions demonstrated a significant effect on depression and anxiety (SMD = −0.711 s, 95% CI = −1.102 to −0.319, p < 0.001) and (SMD = −0.573 s, 95% CI = −0.910 to −0.236, p = 0.001). Similarly, immersive interactive interventions also showed a significant effect on depression and anxiety (SMD = −0.699 s, 95% CI = −1.026 to −0.373, p < 0.001) and (SMD = −0.343 s, 95% CI = −0.493 to −0.194, p < 0.001). Additionally, in the internal medicine group, significant intervention effects were observed for depression (SMD = −0.388, 95% CI = −0.630 to −0.145, p = 0.002) and anxiety (SMD = −0.325, 95% CI = −0.481 to −0.169, p < 0.001). Similarly, in the neurocognitive disorders group, significant intervention effects were found for depression (SMD = −0.702, 95% CI = −0.991 to −0.413, p < 0.001) and anxiety (SMD = −0.790, 95% CI = −1.237 to −0.342, p = 0.001). Conclusion: The results indicated that various digital interactive devices, including physical and immersive interactive devices, have a positive impact on depression and anxiety among older adults. However, mobile games were not effective in addressing depression. Digital interactive technologies did not significantly influence anxiety intervention, except for elderly individuals undergoing surgical procedures. Nevertheless, these interventions effectively addressed depression and anxiety in older individuals with neurocognitive disorders, internal medical issues, and those without health issues.
The Association between Retinal Thickness Fluctuations and Visual Outcomes under Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Therapy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Pandya Bhadra , Mihalache Andrew , Hatamnejad Amin , Grad Justin , Popovic Marko M. , Wong David T.W.
Published: June 2024

Introduction: The objective of this study was to examine the association between retinal thickness (RT) fluctuations and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in eyes with neovascular AMD, macular edema secondary to RVO, and DME treated with anti-VEGF therapy. Methods: A systematic search of Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library was performed from January 2006 to March 2024. Studies comparing visual or anatomic outcomes of patients treated with anti-VEGF therapy, stratified by magnitudes of RT fluctuation, were included. ROBINS-I and Cochrane RoB 2 tools were used to assess risk of bias, and certainty of evidence was evaluated with GRADE criteria. Meta-analysis was performed with a random-effects model. Primary outcomes were final BCVA and change in BCVA relative to baseline. Results: 15,725 articles were screened; 15 studies were identified in the systematic review and 5 studies were included in the meta-analysis. Final ETDRS VA was significantly worse in eyes with the highest level of RT fluctuation (weighted mean difference [WMD] = 7.86 letters; 95% CI, 4.97, 10.74; p < 0.00001; I2 = 81%; 3,136 eyes). RT at last observation was significantly greater in eyes with high RT fluctuations (WMD = −27.35 μm; 95% CI, −0.04, 54.75; p = 0.05; I2 = 88%; 962 eyes). Conclusions: Final visual outcome is associated with magnitude of RT fluctuation over the course of therapy. It is unclear whether minimizing RT fluctuations would help optimize visual outcomes in patients treated with anti-VEGF therapy. These findings are limited by a small set of studies, risk of bias, and considerable heterogeneity.
Epidemiology of Faecal Incontinence for People with Dementia Living in the Community in New Zealand: A Retrospective Cohort Study Using interRAI Home Care Assessment Data
Authors: Burholt Vanessa , Pillai Avinesh , Cheung Gary , Awatere Sharon Aroha , Daltrey Julie
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Globally, there are few studies but wide variation in the epidemiology of faecal incontinence (FI) for people living with dementia in the community. Our objectives are to identify 1-year period prevalence, 5-year incidence, and risks for FI for people living with dementia. Methods: A retrospective cohort study comprising the International Residential Assessment Instrument Home Care version (interRAI‐HC) assessments in a 5-year period in New Zealand (N = 109,964). For prevalence analysis, we selected a dementia cohort for a 1-year period from August 1, 2020, to July 31, 2021 (n = 7,775). For the incidence analysis, participants in the dementia cohort were followed up from the day of the first dementia diagnosis during the period August 1, 2016, and July 31, 2021. Dementia was identified by combining diagnosis of “Alzheimer’s disease” and “Dementia other than Alzheimer’s disease.” Participants were coded with faecal incontinence if they were continent with a stoma, seldom incontinent, occasionally incontinent, often incontinent and incontinent. Results: One year period (1 August 2020-31 July 2021) prevalence of FI was 26.7% (2,082/7,775) of people with dementia. 5-Year incident FI rate was 19.0 per 100 person-years for people with dementia and 12.3 per 100 person-years for people without dementia. Controlling for risk factors for FI in both groups the hazard ratio for FI was 1.7 for people with dementia. Conclusion: FI affects a significant proportion of people with dementia in New Zealand. interRAI-HC data could facilitate global epidemiological studies to estimate service or intervention needs for people with dementia to redress or manage FI.
Timing of Meal Consumption on Glucose Profiles in Latino Adolescents with Obesity
Authors: Vidmar Alaina P. , Wee Choo Phei , Salvy Sarah-Jeanne , Bakhsh Jomanah Abduljalil , Goran Michael I.
Published: June 2024

Introduction: To date, there has been no study investigating how meal-timing impacts glucose and insulin resistance among Latino youth at high risk of type 2 diabetes. A proof-of-concept study was conducted to assess metabolic response to a test-meal consumed in the morning, afternoon, and evening among 15 Latino adolescents with obesity using a within-participant design. Methods: Youth, 13–19 years of age, with obesity, consumed the same test-meal after a 16 h fast at three different times on separate days. Immediately after consumption of the test meal, a mixed meal tolerance test (MMTT) was performed. The co-primary outcomes were the area under the curve (AUC) for glucose, insulin, and C-peptide, and insulinogenic index (IGI). Results: Twenty-two youth consented to participate for a 24% recruitment rate (78% female, 100% Latino, mean age 16.5 ± 1.3 years, 70% publicly insured). There was a significantly greater rise in glucose and c-peptide levels following at 4:00 p.m. compared to 8:00 a.m. (glucose: p = 0.006; C-peptide: p < 0.0001) with no significant association found between insulin levels and timing of meal consumption. Pairwise comparisons showed a greater rise in AUC glucose and C-peptide levels at 4:00 p.m. compared to 8:00 a.m. (glucose p = 0.003; C-peptide p < 0.001) with no significant association found between insulin AUC and timing of meal consumption (p = 0.09). There was a greater reduction in IGI at 4:00 p.m. compared to 8:00 a.m. (p = 0.027). Conclusion: Similar to findings in adults at risk for diabetes, Latino youth with obesity show greater insulin resistance in response to a meal consumed in the afternoon and evening compared to early morning food consumption.
The best machine learning model for fraud detection on e-platforms: a systematic literature review
Authors: Yussiff Alimatu-Saadia , Frank Prikutse Lemdi , Asuah Georgina , Yussiff Abdul-Lateef , Dortey Tetteh Emmanuel , Ibrahim Norshahila , Wan Ahmad Wan Fatimah
Published: June 2024

The internet has been instrumental in the development and facilitation of online payment systems. However, its associated fraudulent activities on eplatforms cannot be overlooked. As a result, there has been a growing interest in the application of machine learning (ML) algorithms for fraud detection on financial e-platforms. The goal of this research is to identify common types of fraud on financial e-platform, highlight different machine learning algorithms employed in fraud detection, and derive the best machine learning algorithms for fraud detection on e-platforms. To achieve this goal, the research followed a nine steps systematic review approach to retrieve Journals and conference publications from science direct, Google Scholar and IEEE Xplore between 2018 and 2023. Out of 2,071 articles identified and screened, 44 publications (23 articles and 21 conference proceedings) satisfied the inclusion criteria for further analysis. The random forest algorithm turned out to be the best ML algorithm because it ranked first in the frequency of usage analysis and ranked first in the performance analysis with an average accuracy of 96.67%. Overall, this review has identified the kinds of fraud on financial e-platforms, and proclaimed the best and least ML algorithm for fraud detection on financial e-platform. This can help guide future research and inform the development of more effective fraud detection systems.
Memória Textual e Identidade Cultural
Authors: Segala Amos
Published: June 2024

Considerando o diálogo intercultural apoiado em documentos que fundam  uma nova universalidade, o estudo dos manuscritos revitaliza potencialidades esquecidas na cultura e na história da humanidade. Daí a importância do texto escrito, não só para a compreensão das humanidades greco-latinas ou da espiritualidade judaico-cristã, como para a recaptura de raízes americanas na sociedade asteca.
Notas Historiográficas (1982/86) Sobre o Programa Antártico Brasileiro: "É assim que passou a haver tudo o que não havia..."
Authors: D´Elia Lúcia Regina M.
Published: June 2024

Trata-se de um relato histórico da participação do Brasil na exploração da Antártica e dos objetivos brasileiros na área. Em primeiro lugar, o Brasil tem-se dedicado à pesquisa científica, abordando diversos campos. Deste modo, cientistas de diversas áreas têm sido contato direto uns com os outros. No entanto, uma das contribuições mais significativas da experiência na Antártica foi a de provar que, ao menos nessa empreitada, houve a possibilidade de diálogo entre as comunidades militar e acadêmica.
Consumerist Prosperity Churches and Communality in Africa: An Eco-Social and Theological Evaluation of the Relationships
Authors: Golo Ben-Willie Kwaku
Published: June 2024

Using review of secondary literature, I examine the inordinate materialist orientations and attitudes of consumerist prosperity churches in Africa and their consequences for communality – the ethos that seeks to safeguard social and environmental relationships. Following an examination of the consumerist orientation of these churches within the framework of communality, I argue that these churches are inconsistent with communality in African societies, considering the potential social and environmental costs of this orientation. I also argue that, by being inconsistent with communality, these churches cannot be described as reflecting the holistic salvation vision of indigenous African worldviews and/or responding to the contexts, desires and needs of many African societies and, therefore, are contextually theologically problematic. I conclude that for a contextually and theologically defensible prosperity preaching by consumerist prosperity churches, communality in African societies will have to feature in its thinking and articulation.
Cloud Droplet Collision Induced by Thunder
Authors: Temkin S.
Published: June 2024

No abstract available.
Latinx Immigrant-Origin Community College Students: Examining Persistence and Transfer Through a Funds of Identity Framework
Authors: Murillo Marco A.
Published: June 2024

Objective: The study aimed to understand how Latinx immigrant-origin community college students draw upon their funds of identity to persist and transfer. Methods: Utilizing a multimethodological qualitative approach, self-portraits and testimonios were collected from 20 Latinx immigrant-origin California community college students in spring 2022. All participants planned to transfer to a 4-year college in the fall. Data analysis included deductive, inductive, and axial coding. Results: Family ties shaped students’ aspirations and persistence while the development of new funds of identity help define their community college journey. In addition, culturally affirming courses and programs that aligned with students’ funds of identity supported persistence and transfer during challenging moments. Finally, students’ academic interests and career exploration operated as motivating factors to help them reach their future goals. Contributions: The results from this study demonstrate the need for community colleges to recognize and affirm Latinx immigrant-origin students’ diverse identities. Community colleges also need to ensure that programs and services align with students’ lived experiences.
Pathological findings and differential diagnoses of lymph node diseases in slaughtered cattle in Brazil: A study of 2000 samples
Authors: Lopes Carlos E. B. , Xavier Fabiana G. , Nicolino Rafael R. , Cordeiro Luana F. M. , Rezende Leandro C. , Lopes Marcelo C. , Silva Dayse H. L. , Fonseca Júnior Antônio A. , Ferreira Luciana R. , Camargos Marcelo F. , Soares Filho Paulo M. , Souza Ivy C. C. , Ecco Roselene
Published: June 2024

Slaughterhouse inspections play a crucial role in the sanitary control of zoonoses and foodborne diseases. This study aimed to identify and analyze the frequencies of lymph node diseases in cattle slaughtered for human consumption, using the samples sent to the anatomic pathology service of the Federal Laboratory for Agricultural Defense ( Laboratório Federal de Defesa Agropecuária), Minas Gerais, Brazil, from January 2015 to September 2022. In total, 2000 lymph node samples were analyzed, and additional information was individually retrieved. Lesions were most frequently identified in thoracic lymph nodes. Bacterial isolation and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) were performed using samples suspected of tuberculosis. Tuberculosis cases accounted for 89.3% of the samples. Histopathology was more sensitive than other ancillary tests for diagnosing tuberculosis. Paraffin-embedded tissues from lymphoma cases were subjected to immunophenotyping using anti-CD3 and anti-CD79a immunohistochemistry. Frozen and/or paraffin-embedded tissues from lymphoma cases were used to identify the enzootic bovine leukosis (EBL) retrovirus through qPCR. Other diagnoses included primary (T- and B-cell lymphoma) and metastatic neoplasms (squamous cell carcinoma, pulmonary adenocarcinoma, undifferentiated carcinoma, undifferentiated adenocarcinoma, undifferentiated sarcoma, undifferentiated round cell tumor, mesothelioma, hepatic carcinoid, meningioma, and seminoma), actinogranulomas (pyogranulomatous lymphadenitis [actinobacillosis and actinomycosis]), idiopathic lymphadenitis (neutrophilic and/or histiocytic, granulomatous, and suppurative), and miscellaneous nonspecific lymphadenopathies (depletion/lymphoid atrophy, lymphangiectasia, erythrocyte drainage, parasitic eosinophilic lymphadenitis, follicular hyperplasia, and toxic granulomatous lymphadenitis). The combination of histopathology with complementary techniques is important for successful diagnosis, especially in complex cases of high epidemiological, economic, and zoosanitary importance, such as tuberculosis and EBL.
Nature, significance, and the human perspective: Refusing the choice between scientism and posthumanism
Authors: Abbott Mathew
Published: June 2024

This paper criticises contemporary posthumanist theories of anthropocentrism by reading an early essay by Bertrand Russell alongside work by Rosi Braidotti and Jane Bennett. It argues that, despite appearances, scientism and posthumanism share key commitments in common, such that clarifying the problems with which Russell struggles regarding nature and significance can illuminate symmetrical problems in posthumanism. Against these alternatives, the paper draws on insights from Bernard Williams, contemporary Hegelian philosophy, and J. J. Gibson’s work on animal agency to sketch a picture of what it means to take a human perspective. It is the perspective of one species among others, with a particular evolutionary history; it is also the perspective of a species that, because of certain developments in that history, knows itself as such. That opens us to forms of answerability to the world that do not touch the lives of unselfconscious animals. Some critics of the theoretical discourse on anthropocentrism have argued that taking a human perspective is morally unobjectionable. This paper goes further: it is necessary for grasping our relation to the rest of nature and so our responsibilities for it.
Multi-approach synthesis of functionalized graphene oxide as reinforcement for polyethylene: Make a strong interaction
Authors: Azizi Mustafa , Elhamnia Mehdi , Hashemi Motlagh Ghodratollah
Published: June 2024

Nanoparticles need to be well dispersed in a polymer matrix to employ their advantages. Their agglomeration may cause defects and stress concentrations, deteriorating the final properties of polymer/graphene nanocomposite. Here graphene oxide (GO) was functionalized in several ways to improve its interaction with polyethylene and dispersion. Polyethylene-grafted maleic anhydride (PE-g-MA) with strong polar groups was used as the matrix to consider a high potential of enhanced interaction with the GO nanoparticles and therefore obtain a high-performance polyolefin composite. First, GO was produced by modified Hammer’s method from graphite. The GO was aminated by phenylene diamine and named FGO. Also GO was reduced chemically to obtain CRGO and thermally to obtain TRGO and then the recent ones were amino functionalized, named FCRGO and FTRGO, respectively. In another route GO was first amino functionalized and then was reduced chemically and named FCRGO+. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by visual tests, FTIR, XRD, SEM, and TGA analysis. Subsequently, the study investigates the fabrication of nanocomposites using these nanoparticles at 2 wt% in the PE-g-MA matrix by solution-casting method. The nanocomposites were characterized by optical microscopy, tensile and rheometric tests, FTIR, DSC, and SEM analysis. Based on the results, FCRGO+ was identified as the optimum nanoparticle having better dispersion, improved interfacial interaction, and stronger mechanical properties. The GO functionalized nanocomposites showed up to 36% in tensile modulus, 56% in tensile strength and 70% in elongation at break as compared to those of GO nanocomposites without functionalization of GO.
Contributions of Griffith Pugh to Success on Mt. Everest and His Impact on the Advancement of Altitude and Environmental Physiology
Authors: Olatunji Mayowa A. , Cornish Stephen , Gardiner Phillip , Giesbrecht Gordon G.
Published: June 2024

Griffith Pugh, MD (1909–1994), was a pioneer in altitude physiology. During World War II, he developed training protocols in Lebanon to improve soldier performance at altitude and in the cold. In 1951 he was chosen to join the British Everest team as a scientist. In preparation, he developed strategies for success on a training expedition on Cho Oyu in 1952. Results from Cho Oyu led to the use of supplemental oxygen at higher flow rates during ascent than used previously (4 L/min vs 2 L/min) and continued use (at a reduced rate of 2 L/min) during descent, enabling increased performance and improved mental acuity. Oxygen was also used during sleep, leading to improved sleep and warmth. Adequate hydration (∼3 L/day) was also stressed, and a more appealing diet led to improved nutrition and condition of the climbers. Improved hygiene practices and acclimatization protocols were also developed. These strategies contributed to the first successful summiting of Mount Everest in 1953. Pugh was then appointed as the lead scientist for a ground-breaking eight-and-a-half-month research expedition where the team was the first to overwinter at high altitude (5800 m) in the Himalayas. This current work summarizes Pugh's scientific contributions as they relate to success on Mount Everest and in inspiring future altitude research by generations of successful researchers.
Flourishing as the central aim of education: Steps toward a consensus
Authors: Martela Frank
Published: June 2024

Lately, several key experts have proposed that well-being and flourishing ought to be the ultimate aim of education. To make this aspiration into reality, we need (1) a shared normative vision, (2) a shared understanding of key features of flourishing, and (3) shared flagship indicators to assess flourishing. Normatively, while the aim of education indeed ought to be the lifelong flourishing of the students, promoting it requires recognizing potential trade-offs between students’ current well-being and lifelong flourishing as well as each student’s individualistic flourishing and the capability of the society to promote the flourishing of all. Flourishing itself involves the following three dimensions: subjectively experienced well-being, psychological functioning, and certain foundational capacities and virtues through which human potential is realized. We need consensus around these elements and their lead indicators to transform the abstract aspiration into a trackable target pursued through evidence-based practices by education systems around the world.
Optimizing Professional Development for New York State Public Health Association Members: Findings From a Mixed Methods Assessment of Public Health Professionals
Authors: Harris Brett R. , Horner Amanda
Published: June 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic placed significant burden on public health professionals, with many experiencing burnout and leaving the profession. The New York State Public Health Association (NYSPHA) recognized the impact of the pandemic on the state’s public health workforce and sought professional development opportunities to support current and future generations of public health professionals. To achieve this goal, NYSPHA solicited input from its members and potential members via survey and focus groups as part of its New Directions Initiative. Seventy individuals participated in listening sessions, and 850 responded to the survey. While more than half felt that NYSPHA is invested in the health and wellness of New Yorkers, fewer considered NYSPHA a leader in public health or a go-to source for public health information. Only about one-third felt connected to NYSPHA as a public health professional. Participants identified multiple professional development opportunities that would encourage them to join or renew their membership including sections or special interest groups (57.4%), opportunities to gain leadership experience (56.7%), volunteering (58.1%), a new committee that addresses public health in the community (55.9%), and mentorship (48.4%). NYSPHA used the results of the survey and focus groups to provide several professional development opportunities including a mentorship program, a new Public Health in Action Committee, and special interest groups in mental health and climate change that have already made a difference in local New York State communities. Similar organizations may use NYSPHA’s experience as an example for supporting their workforce to maximize impact on the communities they serve.
Development of super nanoantimicrobials combining AgCl, tetracycline and benzalkonium chloride
Authors: Hossain Syed Imdadul , Bajrami Diellza , Altun Nazan , Izzi Margherita , Calvano Cosima Damiana , Sportelli Maria Chiara , Gentile Luigi , Picca Rosaria Anna , Gonzalez Pelayo , Mizaikoff Boris , Cioffi Nicola
Published: June 2024

In this work, we demonstrate that a simple argentometric titration is a scalable, fast, green and robust approach for producing AgCl/antibiotic hybrid antimicrobial materials. We titrated AgNO3 into tetracycline hydrochloride (TCH) aqueous solution, thus forming AgCl/TCH in a one-step procedure. Furthermore, we investigated the one-pot synthesis of triply synergistic super-nanoantimicrobials, combining an inorganic source of Ag+ ions (AgCl), a disinfecting agent (benzyl-dimethyl-hexadecyl-ammonium chloride, BAC) and a molecular antibiotic (tetracycline hydrochloride, TCH). Conventional antimicrobial tests, industrial biofilm detection protocols, and in situ IR-ATR microbial biofilm monitoring, have been adapted to understand the performance of the synthesized super-nanoantimicrobial. The resulting hybrid AgCl/BAC/TCH nanoantimicrobials are found to be synergistically active in eradicating Salmonella enterica and Lentilactobacillus parabuchneri bacteria and biofilms. This study paves the way for the development of a new class of super-efficient nanoantimicrobials that combine relatively low amounts of multiple active species into a single (nano)formulation, thus preventing the development of antimicrobial resistance towards a single active principle.
Practice list size, workforce composition and performance in English general practice: a latent profile analysis
Authors: Kayira Alfred Bornwell , Painter Helena , Mathur Rohini , Ford John
Published: June 2024

Background

Following government calls for General Practices in England to work at scale, some practices have grown in size from traditionally small, General Practitioner (GP)-led organisations to large multidisciplinary enterprises. We assessed the effect of practice list size and workforce composition on practice performance in clinical outcomes and patient experience.

Methods

We linked five practice-level datasets in England to obtain a single dataset of practice workforce, list size, proportion of registered patients ≥ 65 years of age, female-male sex ratio, deprivation, rurality, GP contract type, patient experience of care, and Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF) and non-QOF clinical processes and outcomes. Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) was used to cluster general practices into groups based on practice list size and workforce composition. Bayesian Information Criterion, Akaike Information Criterion and deliberation within the research team were used to determine the most informative number of groups. One-way ANOVA was used to assess how groups differed on indicator variables and other variables of interest. Linear regression was used to assess the association between practice group and practice performance.

Results

A total of 6024 practices were available for class assignment. We determined that a 3-class grouping provided the most meaningful interpretation; 4494 (74.6%) were classified as ‘Small GP-reliant practices’, 1400 (23.2%) were labelled ‘Medium-size GP-led practices with a multidisciplinary team (MDT) input’ and 131 (2.2%) practices were named ‘Large multidisciplinary practices’. Small GP-reliant practices outperformed larger multidisciplinary practices on all patient-reported indicators except on confidence and trust where medium-size GP-led practices with MDT input appeared to do better. There was no difference in performance between small GP-reliant practices and larger multidisciplinary practices on QOF incentivised indicators except on asthma reviews where medium-size GP-led practices with MDT input performed worse than smaller GP-reliant practices and immunisation coverage where the same group performed better than smaller GP-reliant practices. For non-incentivised indicators, larger multidisciplinary practices had higher cancer detection rates than small GP-reliant practices.

Conclusion

Small GP-reliant practices were found to provide better patient reported access, continuity of care, experience and satisfaction with care. Larger multidisciplinary practices appeared to have better cancer detection rates but had no effect on other clinical processes and outcomes. As England moves towards larger multidisciplinary practices efforts should be made to preserve good patient experience.
Impact of P2Y12 inhibitors on clinical outcomes in sepsis-3 patients receiving aspirin: a propensity score matched analysis
Authors: Jiang Shaojun , Xu Jianwen , Ke Chengjie , Huang Pinfang
Published: June 2024

Background

Sepsis is a life-threatening disease accompanied by disorders of the coagulation and immune systems. P2Y12 inhibitors, widely used for arterial thrombosis prevention and treatment, possess recently discovered anti-inflammatory properties, raising potential for improved sepsis prognosis.

Method

We conducted a retrospective analysis using the data from Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care-IV database. Patients were divided into an aspirin-alone group versus a combination group based on the use of a P2Y12 inhibitor or not. Differences in 30-day mortality, length of stay (LOS) in intensive care unit (ICU), LOS in hospital, bleeding events and thrombotic events were compared between the two groups.

Result

A total of 1701 pairs of matched patients were obtained by propensity score matching. We found that no statistically significant difference in 30-day mortality in aspirin-alone group and combination group (15.3% vs. 13.7%, log-rank p = 0.154). In addition, patients received P2Y12 inhibitors had a higher incidence of gastrointestinal bleeding (0.5% vs. 1.6%, p = 0.004) and ischemic stroke (1.7% vs. 2.9%, p = 0.023), despite having a shorter LOS in hospital (11.1 vs. 10.3, days, p = 0.043). Cox regression showed that P2Y12 inhibitor was not associated with 30-day mortality (HR = 1.14, 95% CI 0.95–1.36, p = 0.154).

Conclusion

P2Y12 inhibitors did not provide a survival benefit for patients with sepsis 3 and even led to additional adverse clinical outcomes.
Neuromuscular electrical stimulation to combat cognitive aging in people with spinal cord injury: protocol for a single case experimental design study
Authors: Vints Wouter A. J. , Levin Oron , van Griensven Martijn , Vlaeyen Johan W. S. , Masiulis Nerijus , Verbunt Jeanine , van Laake-Geelen Charlotte C. M.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) can experience accelerated cognitive aging. Myokines (factors released from muscle cells during contractions), such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), are thought to have beneficial effects on cognition. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) was shown to elicit a large release of myokines. However, the effects of NMES on cognitive function have not been studied.

Objective

To present the study protocol for a clinical trial evaluating the effects of NMES aimed at improving cognition and BDNF.

Methods

A replicated randomized three-phases single-case experimental design (SCED) with sequential multiple baseline time series and a single-armed prospective trial will be conducted with 15 adults with chronic SCI (> 12 months after injury) above L1 neurological level undergoing 30-min quadriceps NMES, 3 days per week for 12 weeks.

Main study endpoints

Primary endpoint is cognitive performance (assessed by a smartphone test) conducted three times per week during the baseline phase with random duration of 3 to 8 weeks, the intervention phase of 12 weeks, and the follow-up phase of 3 weeks after a no measurement rest period of 12 weeks. Secondary endpoints are changes in BDNF levels and cognitive performance measured before the baseline period, before and after intervention and after a 12 weeks follow-up.

Conclusion

This will be the first study investigating the effects of 12 weeks NMES on both cognition and BDNF levels in individuals with SCI. The SCED results provide information on individual treatment effect courses which may direct future research.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05822297, 12/01/2023).