bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data from Correlates of Circulating Osteoprotegerin in Women with a Pathogenic or Likely Pathogenic Variant in the BRCA1 Gene
Authors: Park Sarah Sohyun , Zaman Tasnim , Kim Shana J. , Brooks Jennifer D. , Wong Andy Kin On , Lubiński Jan , Narod Steven A. , Salmena Leonardo , Kotsopoulos Joanne
Published: February 2024

AbstractBackground:
Lower levels of osteoprotegerin (OPG), the decoy receptor for receptor activator of NFκB (RANK)-ligand, have been reported among women with a BRCA1 mutation, suggesting OPG may be marker of cancer risk. Whether various reproductive, hormonal, or lifestyle factors impact OPG levels in these women is unknown.
Methods:
BRCA1 mutation carriers enrolled in a longitudinal study, no history of cancer, and a serum sample for OPG quantification, were included. Exposure information was collected through self-reported questionnaire at study enrollment and every 2 years thereafter. Serum OPG levels (pg/mL) were measured using an ELISA, and generalized linear models were used to assess the associations between reproductive, hormonal, and lifestyle exposures at the time of blood collection with serum OPG. Adjusted means were estimated using the fully adjusted model.
Results:
A total of 701 women with a median age at blood collection of 39.0 years (18.0–82.0) were included. Older age (Spearman r = 0.24; P < 0.001) and current versus never smoking (98.82 vs. 86.24 pg/mL; Pcat < 0.001) were associated with significantly higher OPG, whereas ever versus never coffee consumption was associated with significantly lower OPG (85.92 vs. 94.05 pg/mL; Pcat = 0.03). There were no other significant associations for other exposures (P ≥ 0.06). The evaluated factors accounted for 7.5% of the variability in OPG.
Conclusions:
OPG is minimally influenced by hormonal and lifestyle factors among BRCA1 mutation carriers.
Impact:
These findings suggest that circulating OPG levels are not impacted by non-genetic factors in high-risk women.
Data from The Influence of Smoking and Occupational Risk Factors on DNA Methylation in the AHRR and F2RL3 Genes
Authors: Pelland-St-Pierre Laura , Pham Michael C. , Nguyen Alice Quynh Huong , Pasquet Romain , Taylor Sherryl A. , Bosson-Rieutort Delphine , Koushik Anita , Ho Vikki
Published: February 2024

AbstractBackground:
AHRR and F2RL3 hypomethylation has been associated with lung cancer. In this study, we investigated the cross-sectional association between smoking and occupational exposures, and AHRR and F2RL3 methylation.
Methods:
A case–control study was nested in CARTaGENE to examine the association between AHRR and F2RL3 methylation and lung cancer risk (200 cases; 400 controls). A secondary analysis was conducted using the data collected from this nested study; namely, baseline information on participants’ smoking behavior and longest-held job was obtained. A cumulative smoking index summarized information on the number of cigarettes smoked, duration of smoking, and time since cessation. Exposure to 13 occupational agents was estimated using the Canadian Job Exposure Matrix. In baseline blood samples, methylation ratios of 40 CpG sites in the AHRR and F2RL3 genes were measured using Sequenom EpiTYPER. Separate least squares regression models were used to estimate the associations between smoking and occupational exposures, and average AHRR and F2RL3 methylation levels, while adjusting for confounders identified from directed acyclic graphs.
Results:
In both genes, smoking was associated with lower average methylation levels. Occupational exposure to aromatic amines, cadmium, and formaldehyde were associated with lower AHRR methylation while, only benzene was associated with F2RL3 hypomethylation; these associations were stronger among ever smokers.
Conclusions:
Our findings support that smoking and occupational exposures to some agents are associated with AHRR and F2RL3 hypomethylation.
Impact:
Our results inform on mechanisms underlying environmental exposures in lung cancer etiology; future studies should prioritize studying joint exposures.
The Reach of Calls and Text Messages for Mailed FIT Outreach in the PROMPT Stepped-Wedge Colorectal Cancer Screening Trial
Authors: Coronado Gloria D. , Nyongesa Denis B. , Petrik Amanda F. , Thompson Jamie H. , Escaron Anne L. , Pham Tuan , Leo Michael C.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Mailed fecal immunochemical test (FIT) outreach can improve colorectal cancer screening participation. We assessed the reach and effectiveness of adding notifications to mailed FIT programs.

Methods:

We conducted secondary analyses of a stepped-wedge evaluation of an enhanced mailed FIT program (n = 15 clinics). Patients were stratified by prior FIT completion. Those with prior FIT were sent a text message (Group 1); those without were randomized 1:1 to receive a text message (Group 2) or live phone call (Group 3). All groups were sent automated phone call reminders. In stratified analysis, we measured reach and effectiveness (FIT completion within 6 months) and assessed patient-level associations using generalized estimating equations.

Results:

Patients (n = 16,934; 83% Latino; 72% completed prior FIT) were reached most often by text messages (78%), followed by live phone calls (71%), then automated phone calls (56%). FIT completion was higher in patients with prior FIT completion versus without [44% (Group 1) vs. 19% (Group 2 + Group 3); P < 0.01]. For patients without prior FIT, effectiveness was higher in those allocated to a live phone call [20% (Group 3) vs. 18% (Group 2) for text message; P = 0.04] and in those who personally answered the live call (28% vs. 9% no call completed; P < 0.01).

Conclusions:

Text messages reached the most patients, yet effectiveness was highest in those who personally answered the live phone call.

Impact:

Despite the broad reach and low cost of text messages, personalized approaches may more successfully boost FIT completion.
Addressing Social Risks to Accelerate Health Equity in Cancer Prevention and Control
Authors: McDougall Jean A. , Hastert Theresa A. , Teteh Dede K. , Rogers Charles R. , Moss Jennifer L. , Ochoa-Dominguez Carol Y. , Chebli Perla , Sutton Arnethea L. , Qin Bo , Warner Erica T. , Xiong Serena
Published: February 2024

Addressing social risks in cancer prevention and control presents a new opportunity for accelerating cancer health equity. As members of the American Society of Preventive Oncology (ASPO) Cancer Health Disparities Special Interest Group, we describe the current state of science on social risks in oncology research and practice. To reduce and eliminate the unjust burden of cancer, we also provide recommendations for multilevel research examining social risks as contributors to inequities and the development of social risks-focused interventions. Suggestions for research and practice are provided within levels of the socio-ecological model, including the interpersonal, organizational, community, and policy levels.
Obinutuzumab Pretreatment as a Novel Approach to Mitigate Formation of Anti-Drug Antibodies Against Cergutuzumab Amunaleukin in Patients with Solid Tumors
Authors: Peters Solange , Angevin Eric , Alonso-Gordoa Teresa , Rohrberg Kristoffer , Melero Ignacio , Mellado Begoña , Perez-Gracia Jose-Luis , Tabernero Josep , Adessi Celine , Boetsch Christophe , Watson Carl , Dal Porto Joseph , Dejardin David , Del Nagro Christopher , Nicolini Valeria , Evers Stefan , Klein Christian , Leutgeb Barbara , Pisa Pavel , Rossmann Eva , Saro José , Umana Pablo , Charo Jehad , Teichgräber Volker , Steeghs Neeltje
Published: February 2024

Purpose:

The immunocytokine cergutuzumab amunaleukin (CEA-IL2v) showed manageable safety and favorable pharmacodynamics in phase I/Ib trials in patients with advanced/metastatic carcinoembryonic antigen-positive (CEA+) solid tumors, but this was accompanied by a high incidence of anti-drug antibodies (ADA). We examined B-cell depletion with obinutuzumab as a potential mitigation strategy.

Experimental Design:

Preclinical data comparing B-cell depletion with rituximab versus obinutuzumab are summarized. Substudies of phase I/Ib trials investigated the effect of obinutuzumab pretreatment on ADA development, safety, pharmacodynamics, and antitumor activity of CEA-IL2v ± atezolizumab in patients with advanced/metastatic or unresectable CEA+ solid tumors who had progressed on standard of care.

Results:

Preclinical data showed superior B-cell depletion with obinutuzumab versus rituximab. In clinical studies, patients received CEA-IL2v monotherapy with (n = 16) or without (n = 6) obinutuzumab pretreatment (monotherapy study), or CEA-IL2v + atezolizumab + obinutuzumab pretreatment (n = 5; combination study). In the monotherapy study, after four cycles (every 2 weeks treatment), 0/15 evaluable patients administered obinutuzumab pretreatment had ADAs versus 4/6 patients without obinutuzumab. Obinutuzumab pretreatment with CEA-IL2v monotherapy showed no new safety signals and pharmacodynamic data suggested minimal impact on T cells and natural killer cells. Conversely, increased liver toxicity was observed in the combination study (CEA-IL2v + atezolizumab + obinutuzumab pretreatment).

Conclusions:

These preliminary findings suggest that obinutuzumab pretreatment before CEA-IL2v administration in patients with CEA+ solid tumors may be a feasible and potent ADA mitigation strategy, with an acceptable safety profile, supporting broader investigation of obinutuzumab pretreatment for ADA mitigation in other settings.
Oncogenic GNAS Uses PKA-Dependent and Independent Mechanisms to Induce Cell Proliferation in Human Pancreatic Ductal and Acinar Organoids
Authors: Desai Ridhdhi , Huang Ling , Gonzalez Raul S. , Muthuswamy Senthil K.
Published: February 2024

Ductal and acinar pancreatic organoids are promising models for the study of pancreatic diseases. Genome sequencing studies have revealed that mutations in a G-protein (GNASR201C) are exclusively observed in intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMN). The biological mechanisms by which GNASR201C affects the ductal and acinar exocrine pancreas are unclear. Here, we use human stem-cell-derived pancreatic ductal and acinar organoids and demonstrate that GNASR201C was more effective in inducing proliferation in ductal organoids compared with acinar organoids. Surprisingly, GNASR201C-induced cell proliferation was protein kinase A (PKA)-independent in ductal organoids and an immortalized ductal epithelial cell line. Co-expression of oncogenic KRASG12V and GNASR201C retained PKA-independence in ductal organoids to stimulate cell proliferation. Thus, we identify cell lineage-specific roles for PKA signaling in GNASR201C-driven cell proliferation in precancerous lesions and report the development of a human pancreatic ductal organoid model system to investigate mechanisms regulating GNASR201C-induced IPMNs.

Implications:

The study identifies an opportunity to discover a PKA-independent pathway downstream of oncogene GNAS for managing IPMN lesions and their progression to PDAC.
An Endosomal Acid-Regulatory Feedback System Rewires Cytosolic cAMP Metabolism and Drives Tumor Progression
Authors: Prasad Hari , Mandal Susmita , Mathew John Kandam Kulathu , Cherukunnath Aparna , Duddu Atchuta Srinivas , Banerjee Mallar , Ramani Harini , Bhat Ramray , Jolly Mohit Kumar , Visweswariah Sandhya S.
Published: February 2024

Although suppressed cAMP levels have been linked to cancer for nearly five decades, the molecular basis remains uncertain. Here, we identify endosomal pH as a novel regulator of cytosolic cAMP homeostasis and a promoter of transformed phenotypic traits in colorectal cancer. Combining experiments and computational analysis, we show that the Na+/H+ exchanger NHE9 contributes to proton leak and causes luminal alkalinization, which induces resting [Ca2+], and in consequence, represses cAMP levels, creating a feedback loop that echoes nutrient deprivation or hypoxia. Higher NHE9 expression in cancer epithelia is associated with a hybrid epithelial–mesenchymal (E/M) state, poor prognosis, tumor budding, and invasive growth in vitro and in vivo. These findings point to NHE9-mediated cAMP suppression as a pseudostarvation-induced invasion state and potential therapeutic vulnerability in colorectal cancer. Our observations lay the groundwork for future research into the complexities of endosome-driven metabolic reprogramming and phenotype switching and the biology of cancer progression.

Implications:

Endosomal pH regulator NHE9 actively controls cytosolic Ca2+ levels to downregulate the adenylate cyclase–cAMP system, enabling colorectal cancer cells to acquire hybrid E/M characteristics and promoting metastatic progression.
Prognostic Value of the Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index in Previously Untreated Patients with Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Treated with a Combination Therapy of Anti-PD-1/-PD-L1 Antibodies and Platinum-Based Chemotherapy: A Multicenter Retrospective Study
Authors: Hirabayashi Taro , Sonehara Kei , Ozawa Ryota , Hachiya Tsutomu , Nozawa Shuhei , Agatsuma Toshihiko , Yamamoto Hiroshi , Kato Akane , Matsuo Akemi , Araki Taisuke , Komatsu Masamichi , Tateishi Kazunari , Hanaoka Masayuki
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Combination therapy of anti-programmed cell death 1 (PD-1)/programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) antibodies and platinum-based chemotherapy has been widely used as a first-line treatment for patients with unresectable advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in clinical settings; however, prognostic biomarkers associated with survival outcomes have not been sufficiently investigated. Methods: We enrolled 147 previously untreated patients with advanced NSCLC who were treated with a combination therapy of anti-PD-1/-PD-L1 antibodies and platinum-based chemotherapy at eight institutions in Nagano Prefecture between December 2018 and April 2023. We evaluated the prognostic value of the geriatric nutritional risk index (GNRI), a systemic inflammatory nutritional biomarker calculated from body weight and serum albumin level, for patients with NSCLC treated with a combination therapy of anti-PD-1/-PD-L1 antibodies and platinum-based chemotherapy. Results: The cutoff value of the GNRI was set at 92. The high GNRI and low GNRI groups included 88 and 59 patients, respectively. The median follow-up period was 15.9 months. The overall survival (OS) in the high GNRI group was significantly longer than that in the low GNRI group (27.9 vs. 15.6 months, p = 0.015). Multivariate analysis revealed that a high GNRI was an independently favorable prognostic predictor for OS (hazard ratio, 1.73; 95% confidence interval, 1.06–2.86; p = 0.031). Conclusion: The present study demonstrates that the GNRI is a useful prognostic predictor in patients with NSCLC treated with a combination therapy of anti-PD-1/-PD-L1 antibodies and platinum-based chemotherapy in clinical settings.
Long-Term Follow-Up of Kidney Function after Acute Liver Failure or Acute Liver Injury: A Cohort Study
Authors: Fidalgo Pedro , Póvoa Pedro , Germano Nuno , Karvellas Constantine J. , Cardoso Filipe S.
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Acute liver failure (ALF) is a rare disease with high mortality. Acute kidney injury (AKI) following ALF is frequent. We assessed AKI impact on long-term kidney function among ALF survivors. Methods: Observational cohort study including consecutive adult (age ≥16 years) patients with ALF or acute liver injury (ALI) admitted to a Portuguese tertiary center intensive care unit (ICU) between October 2013 and February 2020. KDIGO criteria were used to define AKI and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Primary outcome was the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), defined by the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration formula, at least 1 year after index ICU admission. Results: Among 104 patients with ALF (n = 74) or ALI (n = 30), mean (SD) age was 43.7 (18.0) years, and 44 were male. Among all patients (n = 104), following adjustment for age and SOFA score, AKI during the first 7 ICU days (n AKI = 57 and n renal replacement therapy [RRT] = 32) was independently associated with all-cause mortality (adjusted HR [95% CI] 11.61 [1.49–90.34]; p = 0.019). Among hospital survivors with long-term kidney function available (n = 56), median (interquartile range) >1 year eGFR was 95.3 (75.0–107.7) mL/min/1.73 m2 (mean [SD] follow-up of 3.1 [1.6] years). Among these hospital survivors, following adjustment for baseline eGFR, AKI during the first 7 ICU days (n AKI = 19 and n RRT = 10) was not associated with >1 year eGFR (p = 0.15). At least 1 year after index ICU admission, 5 patients developed CKD, none RRT-dependent. Conclusions: Among ALF or ALI survivors, AKI was not associated with significant long-term loss of kidney function.
Association between Antenatal Antibiotic Exposure and Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia: A Systematic Review and Bayesian Model-Averaged Meta-Analysis
Authors: Van Mechelen Karen , Hundscheid Tamara M. , van Westering-Kroon Elke , Bartoš František , Villamor Eduardo
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Antenatal antibiotic exposure has been suggested as a risk factor for bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). We aimed to summarize the evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies on this potential association. Methods: PubMed/Medline and Embase databases were searched. BPD was classified as BPD28 (supplemental oxygen during 28 days or at postnatal day 28), BPD36 (supplemental oxygen at 36 weeks postmenstrual age), BPD36 or death, and BPD-associated pulmonary hypertension (BPD-PH). Bayesian model-averaged (BMA) meta-analysis was used to calculate Bayes factors (BFs). The BF10 is the ratio of the probability of the data under the alternative hypothesis (H1) over the probability of the data under the null hypothesis (H0). Results: We included 6 RCTs and 27 observational studies (126,614 infants). Regarding BPD28, BMA showed that the evidence in favor of H0 (lack of association with antenatal antibiotics) was weak for the RCTS (BF10 = 0.506, 6 studies) and moderate for the observational studies (BF10 = 0.286, 10 studies). Regarding BPD36, the evidence in favor of H0 was moderate for the RCTs (BF10 = 0.127, 2 studies) and weak for the observational studies (BF10 = 0.895, 14 studies). Evidence in favor of H0 was also weak for the associations with BPD36 or death (BF10 = 0.429, 2 studies) and BPD-PH (BF10 = 0.384, 2 studies). None of the meta-analyses showed evidence in favor of H1. Conclusions: The currently available evidence suggests a lack of association between antenatal antibiotics and BPD. However, our results should not be interpreted as an argument for widespread use of antibiotics in the setting of preterm delivery.
CO2 Laser-Assisted Nail Sampling for Mycological Testing in Onychomycosis
Authors: Gnesotto Laura , Cannata Giuseppe Emilio , Pavan Giacomina , Naldi Luigi , Sechi Andrea
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Onychomycosis is the most common nail infection, predominantly caused by Trichophyton spp., and is divided into four main types. Confirmatory testing is crucial, but obtaining an adequate sample may be challenging. We suggest the use of carbon dioxide (CO2) laser for painlessly detaching the nail plate during mycological examination and ensuring a sufficient specimen. Methods: We retrospectively enrolled 25 patients with distolateral onychomycosis, treated according to the following protocol: (1) multiple passes of CO2 laser at 10 W in continuous mode along the proximal border of the affected nail plate; (2) the nail plate was gently cut; (3) the nail bed was curetted; (4) subungual debris and plate fragments were collected for KOH test and culture. Results: The mean visual analog score (VAS) for pain experienced during the procedure was 0.7 (SD: 2.1), indicating that the sampling was relatively painless for the majority of patients. There were no permanent changes observed in the nail unit of any patients during the follow-up visits as a result of using the CO2 laser. Conclusion: We firmly believe that the use of lasers offers numerous advantages, including ease of use, reduced pain perception, and the ability to target the proximal margin of fungal infections where viable hyphae are significantly represented.
The Rare of the Rarest: Placental Site Trophoblastic Tumor, Epithelioid Trophoblastic Tumor, Atypical Placental Site Nodule
Authors: Marquina Gloria , Szewczyk Grzegorz , Goffin Frederic
Published: February 2024

Background: Epithelioid Trophoblastic Tumor (ETT) and Placental Site Trophoblastic Tumor (PSTT) are two of the rarest GTNs that share certain features at diagnosis and management. Atypical Placental Site Nodule (APSN) is a relatively new entity considered as a premalignant lesion. Objectives and Methods: The aim of this review was to summarize the main characteristics of each of these entities, their diagnostic features, and their treatment’s standard of care including fertility-sparing treatments. Outcome: This study provides a thorough review of ETT, PSTT, and APSN. Conclusions: The reader will gain an insight view of these rare tumors arising from the intermediate trophoblast.
Postoperative Dumping Syndrome, Health-Related Quality of Life, Anxiety, Depression, and Eating Disturbances: Results of a Longitudinal Obesity Surgery Study
Authors: Müller Astrid , Efeler Salih , Laskowski Nora M. , Pommnitz Melanie , Mall Julian W. , Meyer Günther , Wunder Ruth , Köhler Hinrich , Hüttl Thomas P. , de Zwaan Martina
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Given the lack of research on the relationship of post-surgery dumping syndrome and eating disturbances, the purpose of the present longitudinal study was to investigate whether dumping after obesity surgery is associated with pre-/postoperative eating disorder symptoms or addiction-like eating beyond the type of surgery, gender, health-realted quality of life (HRQoL) and anxiety/depressive symptoms. Methods: The study included 220 patients (76% women) before (t0) and 6 months after (t1) obesity surgery (sleeve gastrectomy [n = 152], Roux-en-Y gastric bypass [n = 53], omega loop gastric bypass [n = 15]). The Sigstad Dumping Score was used to assess post-surgery dumping syndrome. Participants further answered the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q), Yale Food Addiction Scale 2.0 (YFAS 2.0), Short-Form Health Survey (SF-12), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) at t0 and t1. Results: The point prevalence of symptoms suggestive of post-surgery dumping syndrome was 33%. Regression analyses indicate an association of dumping with surgical procedure (bypass), female gender, reduced HRQoL, more anxiety/depressive symptoms, and potentially with binge eating but not with eating disorder symptoms in general or with addiction-like eating. Conclusion: The current study failed to show a close relationship between the presence of self-reported dumping syndrome and eating disorder symptoms or addiction-like eating following obesity surgery. Further studies with longer follow-up periods should make use of clinical interviews to assess psychosocial variables and of objective measures to diagnose dumping in addition to standardized self-ratings.
Analysis of the Differences between Bethesda Groups according to Conventional Smear and Liquid-Based Cytology Methods in Cervicovaginal Cytology: A Single-Center Experience with 165,915 Cases
Authors: Ucak Ramazan , Dilbaz Omer Faruk , Polat Nedim
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Liquid-based cytology (LBC) has replaced conventional smear (CS) in the world. In this study, through a series with a large number of cases, we aimed to make a comparison and general evaluation in all groups, primarily epithelial abnormalities, according to LBC and CS methods. This study was carried out in a private pathology laboratory located in a metropolitan city, where cytological materials sent from many clinics were examined. Material and Methods: There were 165,915 cases whose smears were examined between 2012 and 2020, most of them conventional (131,224 CS, 34,691 LBC). Cases were evaluated on the basis of the Bethesda 2014 classification and divided into sub-diagnostic categories after they were divided into two main groups as “with epithelial abnormalities” and “without.” χ2 and Fischer’s precision statistical tests were conducted using SPSS 23.0 package. In the CS process, cervical samples were obtained using an endocervical brush and a spatula. Cells were directly spread onto the slides and promptly fixed in 95% ethanol, followed by staining with the standard Papanicolaou stain. For LBC ThinPrep, cervical specimens were gathered using a cervix brush. The brush was washed in a vial and discarded. Finally, cells were isolated through vacuum filtration and transferred to the slide using air pressure. Results: Squamous cell abnormalities (atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance [ASC-US], atypical squamous cells – cannot exclude high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion [ASC-H], low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion [LSIL], high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion [HSIL], squamous cell carcinoma, atypical glandular cells of undetermined significance) were reported in 5,696 (3.43%) cases. ASC (ASC-US + ASC-H)/SIL ratio (1.36/2.04) was found to be 0.67 (recommended Bethesda ratio is <3). ASC-US (p < 0.001), ASC-H (p < 0.001), and HSIL(p < 0.001) detection rate of LBC was found to be significantly higher than CS. ASC-US (1.8/1.2), ASC-H (0.08/0.008), and HSIL (0.6/0.3) case ratios of LBC/CS were found to be significantly higher in LBC. LSIL (1.72/1.66) rate was similar. Conclusion: LBC is superior to CS in detecting epithelial lesions. In addition to being used as a screening method, it is clear that it makes a great contribution to reducing cervical carcinomas due to HPV typing. Definitive comments regarding comparison of methods on reactive changes and microorganism detection are challenging. Preanalytical factors might account for these situations.
Preservação de vestígios de crime em unidades de emergência: serviço de atendimento móvel de urgência
Authors: Costa Ligia Ferreira , Silva Marcos Santos , Azevedo Vitória Maria Costa da Silva Estevão de , Petraki Gabriela Granja Porto , Almeida Adriana Conrado de
Published: February 2024

Objetivo: analisar o conhecimento das equipes móveis do Serviço de Atendimento Móvel de Urgência (SAMU) do município de Recife, sobre a preservação dos vestígios de crime. Metodologia: estudo descritivo, transversal, realizado na central de regulação médica 192 e equipes móveis do SAMU/Recife, em 2021 e 2022. Construiu-se um questionário com 24 perguntas validado por discentes e docentes do Programa de Mestrado acadêmico em Perícias Forenses da Universidade de Pernambuco aplicado aos profissionais do SAMU. Utilizou-se para a análise dos dados a estatística descritiva. Resultados: a população do estudo foi constituída por profissionais do sexo masculino, faixa etária entre 38 e 47 anos, tempo de formação e tempo de atuação no SAMU com um a quatro anos no serviço, em relação à preservação de vestígios apresentaram um conhecimento mínimo ou nenhum, apesar de reconhecerem a importância da temática e de expressarem a necessidade de capacitação em Ciências Forenses. Conclusão: conclui-se que existe um conhecimento sobre a importância de preservar os vestígios de crimes embora desconheça o que é Central de Cadeia de Custódia. Os profissionais não sentem segurança e entendem que não é atribuição das equipes do SAMU a responsabilidade em preservar os vestígios.
A estética do ruído
Authors: Sangild Torben , Frontin Juliana
Published: February 2024

No ensaio “A estética do ruído”, Torben Sangild busca definir o ruído e traçar um breve esboço de sua história na sociedade. Ele o classifica em três categorias: o ruído acústico, o ruído comunicativo e o ruído subjetivo. Sangild então passa a explorar o ruído no rock e na música eletrônica, investigando como o uso da guitarra, de samples e de glitches em bandas como Sonic Youth, My Bloody Valentine, Merzbow e Curd Duca ajudaram a estabelecer o poder estético que o ruído pode transmitir. Sangild trata o ruído como um fenômeno estético, um sentimento explosivo que pode ter um potencial crítico numa sociedade imersa em racionalidade e individualidade.
Unilateral Primary Aldosteronism: Long-Term Disease Recurrence After Adrenalectomy
Authors: Tetti Martina , Brüdgam Denise , Burrello Jacopo , Udager Aaron M. , Riester Anna , Knösel Thomas , Beuschlein Felix , Rainey William E. , Reincke Martin , Williams Tracy Ann
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Primary aldosteronism (PA) is frequently caused by a unilateral aldosterone-producing adenoma with a PA-driver mutation. Unilateral adrenalectomy has a high probability of short-term biochemical remission, but long-term postsurgical outcomes are relatively undefined. Our objective was to investigate the incidence of long-term recurrence of PA in individuals with postsurgical short-term biochemical remission.

METHODS:

Adrenalectomized patients for unilateral PA were included from a single referral center. Histopathology and outcomes were assessed according to international histopathology of unilateral primary aldosteronism and PASO (Primary Aldosteronism Surgical Outcome) consensuses. Genotyping was performed using CYP11B2 (aldosterone synthase)-guided sequencing.

RESULTS:

Classical adrenal histopathology, exemplified by a solitary aldosterone-producing adenoma, was observed in 78% of 90 adrenals, compared with 22% with nonclassical histopathology. The classical group displayed higher aldosterone-to-renin ratios (
P
=0.013) and lower contralateral ratios (
P
=0.008). Outcome assessments at both short (12 months [7; 12]) and long (89 months [48; 124]) terms were available for 57 patients. At short-term assessment, 53 (93%) displayed complete biochemical success (43 classical and 10 nonclassical), but long-term assessment demonstrated biochemical PA recurrence in 12 (23%) with an overrepresentation of the nonclassical histopathology (6 [60%] of 10 nonclassical histopathology versus 6 [14%] of 43 classical histopathology;
P
=0.005). PA-driver mutations were identified in 97% of 64 aldosterone-producing adenomas; there was no association of the aldosterone-producing adenoma genotype with PA recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS:

A substantial proportion of individuals display postsurgical biochemical recurrence of PA, which is related to the histopathology of the resected adrenal gland. These findings emphasize the role of histopathology and the requirement for continued outcome assessment in the management of surgically treated patients for PA.
Sympathetic and parasympathetic central autonomic networks
Authors: Valenza Gaetano , Ciò Francesco Di , Toschi Nicola , Barbieri Riccardo
Published: February 2024

The central-autonomic network (CAN) comprises brain regions that are functionally linked to the activity of peripheral autonomic nerves. While parasympathetic CAN (i.e., the CAN projecting onto parasympathetic branches) has recently been investigated and is known to be involved in neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders, sympathetic CAN (i.e., the CAN projecting onto sympathetic nerves) has not been fully characterized. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data from the Human Connectome Project in conjunction with heartbeat dynamics and its orthonormal autoregressive descriptors as a proxy for sympathetic activity estimation, namely, the sympathetic activity index (SAI), we uncover brain regions belonging to the sympathetic CAN at rest. We uncover a widespread CAN comprising both cortical (in all lobes) and subcortical areas, including the cerebellum and brainstem, which is functionally linked to sympathetic activity and overlaps with brain regions driving parasympathetic activity. These findings may constitute fundamental knowledge linking brain and bodily dynamics, including the link between neurological and psychiatric disorders and autonomic dysfunctions.
Additions to Crassiparies and Neobrevicollum (Neohendersoniaceae, Pleosporales) associated with woody hosts in Southwest China
Authors: LU YU-HANG , ZHANG SHENG-NAN , DU HONG-ZHI , CHEEWANGKOON RATCHADAWAN , LIU JIAN-KUI
Published: February 2024

During an investigation of ascomycetous fungi from decaying wood in southwest China, seven taxa with sexual morphs were found to be saprobic from terrestrial habitats. These taxa were identified based on morphology, phylogeny, and cultural characteristics. The morphology and phylogenetic evidence placed these new fungal collections in Neohendersoniaceae, distributing in the genera Crassiparies and Neobrevicollum. The phylogenetic analyses of a combined ITS, LSU, SSU, RPB2, and TEF1-α sequence dataset also confirmed their taxonomic placement. A new species, Neobrevicollum biancaeae is introduced to accommodate the two taxa, which have thin-walled ascomata without ostiole, and smaller asci and ascospores compared to the type species, N. oleae. The other five samples were identified as Crassiparies quadrisporus and N. oleae representing three and two taxa, respectively. The identification and establishment of these species are justified based on morpho-molecular analyses. In addition, the new host records of C. quadrisporus and N. oleae were reported. Detailed descriptions and illustrations are provided for collected taxa. This study contributed to the microfungal diversity in Southwest China.
A new species of planthopper in the genus Paraphenice (Hemiptera: Derbidae: Otiocerinae) from palms in eastern Madagascar
Authors: BAHDER BRIAN W. , STROIŃSKI ADAM , ŁUKASIK PIOTR , BARTLETT CHARLES R. , PILET FABIAN , HASINJAKA RASOLONDALAO HARIN’HALA
Published: February 2024

A survey of planthoppers associated with palms in Madagascar was initiated to assess putative vectors of a phytoplasma causing palm decline. Here a derbid collected from a Chinese fan palm (Livistona chinensis) is described as Paraphenice fluctus sp. n., with supplemental molecular data for the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene, 18S rRNA gene, and D9–D10 expansion region of the 28S rRNA gene.
History of Economics in the Light of Meghnad Desai’s Poverty of Political Economy
Authors: Sinha Ajit
Published: February 2024

The article discusses some of the major theoretical and practical matters that the discipline of Economics has been grappling with from the times of Adam Smith down to Keynes. The publication of Meghnad Desai’s Poverty of Political Economy turns out to be an occasion or inspiration to revisit these ideas—the article is organised as a review article of the book.

JEL Codes: B0, B1, B2, B3
Youths’ Engagement in Social Accountability: A Case of Toangoma Ward in Temeke Municipal Council, Dar es Salaam
Authors: Nkyabonaki Jason
Published: February 2024

The youths voicing, protesting, and visiting service units to read notice boards are a gauge for youth’s responsible citizenship. The sample of 200 respondents was drawn randomly among the 300 targeted population. The study employed quantitative and qualitative methods in data collection, and descriptive statistics were generated. The study was conducted between 2018 and 2020. The key findings revealed that most youths are inadequately socialized to engage in social accountability for their welfare. Conclusively, youths were inadequately engaging in tracking surveys to demand accountability. The recommendation is that civic education in the educational curriculum should be enhanced.
Exploring the Ability of Educators to Identify Behaviors Indicative of Emerging Psychopathologies in Elementary School Students: Assessing the Use of a Novel Vignette Measure
Authors: Page Damian , Cunningham Todd
Published: February 2024

The present study sought to assess the ability of teachers to identify emerging mental health disorders through a novel vignette measure. Canadian certified primary grade teachers ( N = 101) completed a survey that included a novel vignette measure. Participants rated the severity of fictitious student behaviors depicted in several vignettes and their accuracy was calculated based on how closely their ratings matched the severity of symptoms depicted. Accuracy estimates derived through this measure differed considerably from previous vignette measure paradigms, producing much lower estimates of identification accuracy. A binomial logistics regression indicated that neither the gender nor pathology depicted in the vignettes significantly influenced rating accuracy. This novel vignette measure may represent a quick and effective means of assessing the accuracy of teachers in identifying emerging mental health disorders in their students.
Technical Efficiency of Handloom-based Micro-enterprises in Assam, India: A Stochastic Frontier Analysis
Authors: Baruah Manuj , Saha Paramita
Published: February 2024

Improving technical efficiency is one of the most effective ways to boost output in any manufacturing process. The efficiency level of enterprises can be improved by identifying their sources of inefficiency. The present article examines the technical efficiency and tries to identify the factors causing technical inefficiency in handloom-based micro-enterprises in Assam. The article used primary data and collected from 312 micro-level handloom enterprises spread across four districts of Assam. The stochastic frontier production with an inefficiency effects model is used for the purpose of analysis. Labour, capital and material inputs are found to be significant and labour is the most effective factor for increasing of output level. The mean technical efficiency of overall enterprises is 0.67 and a wide variation in the level of technical efficiency among the sample handloom enterprises is observed. Inefficiency model shows that a high yarn capital ratio, lower product diversity, entrepreneurs with training, a higher number of employees and adoption of promotional practices tend to reduce the technical inefficiency of the handloom enterprise significantly.
Energy Costs and Greenhouse Gas Emissions of Giant Reed (Arundo donax L.) Production for Use as a Bioenergy Vector
Authors: Santalla Estela , Ressia Juan , Córdoba Verónica , Lázaro Laura
Published: February 2024

This study estimates the energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions for the production and the processing for thermal use of Giant reed ( Arundo donax L.), a second-generation perennial energy crop. The agronomic study took place in Buenos Aires (Argentina) under humid to subhumid climatic conditions. Rhizomes and in vitro micropropagated plantlets were employed and cultivated under both fertilization and rainfed conditions during 2018–2022. The yield demonstrated a substantial increase from 3.8 t/ha to 23.1 t/ha from implantation to crop setting. Throughout this period, the energy input escalated from 23 to 70 GJ/ha, with the planting phase exhibiting the highest energy intensity. This surge can be attributed to the use of herbicides, accounting for 44.1%–61.3% of the energy consumed. Energy outputs were 17 (±0.19) MJ/kg as the low heating value obtained from the biomass elemental composition. The net energy yield for the 10-year lifecycle resulted in 2851.3 (±20.2) GJ/ha, and the output/input ratio varied from 41 (for pellets) to 126 (for chips). Carbon emissions ranged from 343.9 (for plantlets) to 371.9 (for rhizomes) kg CO2e/ha during the implantation stage, resulting in 208.3, 397.6, and 859.6 kg CO2e/ha for chips, bales, and pellets, respectively. This study reinforced the knowledge about the farming of this energy crop and displayed a promising scenario for the sustainable development of the Arundo donax L. based value chain.

JEL Classification Q4, Q43, Q56
A Multimethod Exploration of the COVID-Era Transition to Virtual Hearings in Child Welfare Court Cases
Authors: Summers Alicia , Gatowski Sophia I.
Published: February 2024

To promote open and safe access to court hearings for families and professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic, juvenile and family courts across the United States shifted towards virtual hearings in child welfare cases. Drawing on findings from a four state court observation study conducted pre and post emergence of the pandemic, as well as from a national survey of court professionals and a survey of parents, we reflect on the experiences of courts and court participants with virtual hearings in child welfare cases and specific impacts on hearing quality. Findings indicate that despite stakeholder perceptions, there is little difference in the quality of hearings with respect to judicial engagement and discussion. Differences were found however, in the attendance of fathers and relatives at hearings, with less fathers and relatives attending virtual hearings. Parents had mixed experiences with the virtual hearing process. Professionals noted challenges, as well as strategies for overcoming challenges, to engage parents and ensure their access to virtual hearings.
The potential of the effect of insulation and photovoltaic panel use in buildings on energy performance for Turkey and LCC analysis
Authors: Aşıkoğlu Ahunur
Published: February 2024

This study was carried out in a building located in Antalya in order to determine the optimum combinations of different levels of improvement and PV panel use in existing buildings in terms of energy saving and LCC. Within the framework of TS 825 Thermal Insulation Rules in Buildings, which is the national standard in Turkey, three different levels of insulation in walls, roofs, floors and windows and three different numbers of PV panels for energy production were determined. 18 different alternatives obtained using the orthogonal array for five factors with three levels analyzed have been made. In terms of energy savings, the scenario with the highest levels of insulation for walls, roofs, floors and windows and the use of 12 PV panels is the optimum combination that produces all of its energy needs and switches to surplus energy with +KW after consumption. In terms of LCC, the alternative with 12 PV panels, where wall, floor and windows are the highest and the roof is insulated at level 2, is the best combination. PV panel integration was found to be the most effective parameter in terms of energy savings and LCC.
Effectiveness of online and blended teaching methods in developing professional engineering cross-curricular skills: A study in the context of Latin America
Authors: de la Puente Pacheco Mario Alberto , Rios Mahecha Juan Diego , Maury Campo Mauro , Torres Jose
Published: February 2024

This study explores the effectiveness of online and blended teaching methods in developing cross-curricular skills crucial for an ideal engineering profile among undergraduate students. Involving 587 online and 635 blended students across 11 Latin American universities, the research incorporates Likert tests for student perceptions and Mann-Whitney statistical tests for hypothesis scrutiny. Challenges emerged due to diverse academic contexts and the subjective nature of self-reported perceptions. Despite these hurdles, findings highlight the blended method’s superior effectiveness in fostering key engineering skills. The study not only contributes to teaching method exploration but also addresses challenges in cross-cultural research settings, enhancing our understanding of the complexities and adaptations required for cross-curricular skill development in engineering education.
Subjective Confidence as a Monitor of the Replicability of the Response
Authors: Koriat Asher
Published: February 2024

Confidence is commonly assumed to monitor the accuracy of responses. However, intriguing results, examined in the light of philosophical discussions of epistemic justification, suggest that confidence actually monitors the reliability of choices rather than (directly) their accuracy. The focus on reliability is consistent with the view that the construction of truth has much in common with the construction of reality: extracting reliable properties that afford prediction. People are assumed to make a binary choice by sampling cues from a “collective wisdomware,” and their confidence is based on the consistency of these cues, in line with the self-consistency model. Here, however, I propose that internal consistency is taken to index the reliability of choices themselves—the likelihood that they will be repeated. The results of 10 studies using binary decisions from different domains indicated that confidence in a choice predicts its replicability both within individuals and across individuals. This was so for domains for which choices have a truth value and for those for which they do not. For the former domains, differences in replicability mediated the prediction of accuracy whether confidence was diagnostic or counterdiagnostic of accuracy. Metatheoretical, methodological, and practical implications are discussed.
Effects of Diclofenac Etalhyaluronate (SI-613/ONO-5704) on Cartilage Degeneration in Arthritic Rats and Inflammatory Cytokine-Stimulated Human Chondrocytes
Authors: Takada Shuhei , Nodera Risa , Yoshioka Keiji
Published: February 2024

Objective

Cartilage degeneration is a key feature of osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis and is thought to negatively impact patients’ quality of life. Diclofenac etalhyaluronate (DEH, SI-613/ONO-5704) is a hyaluronic acid (HA) derivative chemically bound to diclofenac (DF) that has been reported to improve OA symptoms; however, its effect on cartilage degeneration remains unknown. In the present study, we investigated the chondroprotective effect of DEH in rats with collagen-induced arthritis and interleukin-1β-stimulated human chondrocytes.

Design

Rats with collagen-induced arthritis were administered DEH and HA intra-articularly, and DF orally. Knee joint swelling, histological scores of articular cartilage, and inflammatory (Il1b) and catabolic (Mmp3 and Mmp13) gene expression in the synovial tissue and cartilage were evaluated. In vitro direct effects of DEH on matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-3 and MMP-13 expression were examined in interleukin-1β-stimulated human chondrocytes.

Results

In a rat model of collagen-induced arthritis, a single intra-articular dose of DEH inhibited knee joint inflammation and cartilage degeneration. Daily oral administration of DF had similar effects. Conversely, HA administered as a single intra-articular dose had no effect. Only DEH inhibited Mmp3 gene expression in the cartilage, whereas DEH and DF inhibited Mmp3 and Mmp13 mRNA expression in the synovial tissue. In interleukin-1β-stimulated human chondrocytes, DEH and HA inhibited MMP-3 and MMP-13 production, whereas DF had no effect.

Conclusions

In this study, we demonstrated the chondroprotective effect of DEH in rats with collagen-induced arthritis and in interleukin-1β-stimulated human chondrocytes. Thus, DEH may suppress cartilage degeneration in patients with musculoskeletal diseases, such as OA.
Identifying Barriers to SDG Awareness Among Scheduled Caste Youth in Tamil Nadu
Authors: Lalitha S. , Karpagam N. , Sona S. , Roul Avilash
Published: February 2024

Despite the sustainable development goals’ (SDGs) emphasis on inclusion, marginalized youths are denied full participation due to discriminatory practices. Despite a few studies examining the SDGs and their social targets, none has examined young people’s awareness of the SDGs in Scheduled Castes (SCs). In our study, we analysed the narratives of 40 SC youth in seven districts of Tamil Nadu, who have historically been marginalized. In this study, we examined how SC youth experience social exclusion and what factors contribute to their lack of awareness of schemes and programmes. We suggested ways to promote the involvement of SC youth in achieving Tamil Nadu’s SDGs.