bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PCSK9 and Cardiovascular Disease in Individuals with Moderately Decreased Kidney Function
Authors: Kheirkhah Azin , Lamina Claudia , Kollerits Barbara , Schachtl-Riess Johanna F. , Schultheiss Ulla T. , Forer Lukas , Sekula Peggy , Kotsis Fruzsina , Eckardt Kai-Uwe , Kronenberg Florian
Published: May 2022

Background and objectives

Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is a key regulator of lipid homeostasis. Studies investigating the association between PCSK9 and cardiovascular disease in large cohorts of patients with CKD are limited.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

The association of PCSK9 concentrations with prevalent and incident cardiovascular disease was investigated in 5138 White participants of the German Chronic Kidney Disease study with a median follow-up of 6.5 years. Inclusion criteria were eGFR of 30–60 or >60 ml/min per 1.73 m2 in the presence of overt proteinuria (urine albumin-creatinine ratio >300 mg/g or equivalent). Prevalent cardiovascular disease was defined as a history of nonfatal myocardial infarction, coronary artery bypass grafting, percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty, carotid arteries interventions, and stroke. Incident major adverse cardiovascular disease events included death from cardiovascular causes, acute nonfatal myocardial infarction, and nonfatal stroke.

Results

Median PCSK9 concentration in the cohort was 285 ng/ml (interquartile range, 231–346 ng/ml). There was no association between PCSK9 concentrations and baseline eGFR and albuminuria. With each 100-ng/ml increment of PCSK9, the odds for prevalent cardiovascular disease (n=1284) were 1.22-fold (95% confidence interval, 1.12 to 1.34; P<0.001) higher in a model with extended adjustment for major confounders. This association was stronger in nonstatin than statin users (P value for interaction =0.009). During follow-up, 474 individuals experienced a major adverse cardiovascular disease event, and participants in PCSK9 quartiles 2–4 had a 32%–47% higher risk compared with those in quartile 1 (P<0.05). Subgroup analysis revealed that this association was restricted to those participants who already had cardiovascular disease at baseline (all hazard ratios >1.75; P=0.01). In addition, PCSK9 showed a valuable gain in classification accuracy for both prevalent cardiovascular disease (net reclassification index =0.27; 95% confidence interval, 0.20 to 0.33) and incident major adverse cardiovascular disease events during follow-up (net reclassification index =0.10; 95% confidence interval, 0.01 to 0.21) when added to an extended adjustment model.

Conclusions

Our findings reveal no relation of PCSK9 with baseline eGFR and albuminuria but a significant association between higher PCSK9 concentrations and risk of cardiovascular disease independent of traditional risk factors, including LDL cholesterol levels.

Clinical Trial registry name and registration number: German Chronic Kidney Disease Study (GCKD), DRKS 00003971
POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL-CHITOSAN NANOPARTICLE GEL FOR THE CONTROLLED NASAL DELIVERY OF NOSCAPINE AGAINST GLIOMA
Authors: DIXIT NOOPUR , TRIVEDI ADITYA , AHIRWAR DHEERAJ
Published: May 2022

Objective: To synthesize the PEG surface modulated Chitosan Nanoparticles aiding in Pluronic intranasal gel (PEG-CHT-PL) encapsulating cytotoxic noscapine for enhanced anticancer effect against glioma.
Methods: The PEG-CHT-PL was synthesized by inotropic gelation method and evaluated for in vitro characterization parameters such as zeta sizer, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), zeta potential followed by gelling time, Thixotropy and flow index evaluation. The cell uptake assay, 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) evaluation and apoptosis was evaluated on human Glioblastoma U-87 cell line post evaluation by evaluating drug release pattern at 7.4 pH by PBS buffer for stable intranasal brain delivery.
Results: The synthesized PEG-CHT-PL showed nanosize range of 110 nm and a smooth spherical shape with a negative zeta potential of27±1.9 mV. The gel showed stable rheology exhibiting negligible normal deviation in viscosity, Thixotropy and flow index on long-term storage. The drug release pattern followed the Higuchi’s model in 48 h at 7.4pH showed sustained noscapine discharge. The in vitro Glioblastoma U-87 cell line studies showed enhanced cell uptake and distribution, with notable cell toxicity by MTT and apoptosis evaluation confirming significant antitumor efficiency via intranasal delivery.
Conclusion: The present research has showed promising operational intranasal therapy against brain tumor crossing BBB efficiently and can be subjected for an effective antitumor approach in clinical platform in future drug delivery system.
BIOPHARMACEUTICAL STUDY OF BINARY POLOXAMER SYSTEMS AS IN SITU DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEMS POLOXAMER POLYCOMPLEXES: THE STUDY
Authors: BAKHRUSHINA ELENA O. , NOVOZHILOVA ELIZAVETA V. , KASHPERKO ALENA S. , SOKOLOVA ANNA V. , DEMINA NATALIA B. , KRASNYUK IVAN I.
Published: May 2022

Objective: The article presents the results of studying the parameters of in situ systems based on poloxamers.
Methods: Natural, synthetic and semi-synthetic polymers were considered as additional gel-forming agents. The above-mentioned agents were cellulose derivatives, as well as rare-cross-linked acrylic polymers, alginic acid salts, and xanthan gum. The gelation temperature was visually recorded during the gradual heating. Mucoadhesion was determined by measuring the separation force of the sample from the mucosal model using pig stomach mucin. The concentration of gel formation was determined using an Ostwald capillary viscometer.
Results: During the experiment, 20 samples based on poloxamer 407 18% were examined with the addition of excipients in concentrations of 0.5-2.0%. It was found that the introduction of additional gel-forming agents has a positive effect on the mucoadhesive properties of poloxamer 407. To increase the temperature of gelation of the binary mixture, it is necessary to take into account the own concentration of gelation of the introduced additional polymer, which was confirmed by capillary viscometry. Also, additional viscometric studies revealed the reasons for the absence of a thermoreversible effect in the composition of a poloxamer with xanthan gum and confirmed its use as an excipient in the thermoreversible matrix of poloxamer 407 is impractical. Composition with the best-investigated biopharmaceutical properties-the composition with HEC in a concentration of 0.5%
Conclusion: The obtained results can be explained by the fact that when the concentration of additional polymer was exceeded, binary mixtures showed a decrease in the gel formation temperature up to a complete loss of the ability to temperature-dependent sol-gel transition. The choice of an additional gel-forming agent to improve the properties of the system should be based on some specific properties that affect the thermoreversible properties of the system.
COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW ON RECENT UPDATES OF GASTRORETENTIVE RAFT-FORMING SYSTEMS
Authors: TEAIMA MAHMOUD , ABDELMONEM REHAB , SAADY MARWA , EL-NABARAWI MOHAMED , SHOMAN NABIL A.
Published: May 2022

A Raft-forming system is an auspicious approach for systematic drug delivery with steady plasma profiles and drug sustained release manner. It has advantages like enhanced bioavailability, better floating capabilities than other floating systems, more patient compliance, and promoting drug efficacy. Although, it has some problems as it can’t be used for drugs that possess low acid solubility, drugs that are unstable in gastric media, and drugs used for selective release in the colon along with stability difficulties. This system can be successfully prepared by three methods: the physical approach, chemical approach, and physiologically-stimuli approach. The comparative studies showed that the raft-forming system has more advantage over the other comparatives in the antacid potency and in vitro gastric residence time, allowing an intact prolonged delivery of the antacid drug. All the listed applications of the raft system were, fortunately, possessing promising drug delivery with a well-designed drug delivery system. There was a good variety in the active ingredients formulated in a raft, starting from some anti-coughs, anti-spasmodic, anti-inflammatories, and antacids to drugs treating osteoporosis and finally anti-depressants and anti-epileptic drugs. This diversity along with simple in vitro and in vivo evaluations, gives the potentiality to raft for leading the other gastro retentive drug delivery systems for decades.
PREPARATION AND EVALUATION OF NANOSPONGES BASED TRAMADOL HCL C/R TABLETS USING DESIGN OF EXPERIMENT
Authors: REDDY DUGGI VAMSHIDHAR , RAO AMBATI SAMBASHIVA
Published: May 2022

Objective: The goal was to develop a controlled release formulation of tramadol utilizing the cyclodextrin-based nanosponges as a nanocarrier.
Methods: Based on the preliminary trials a 3-factor, 3-level Box-Behnken design was employed. Five types of nanosponges from β-cyclodextrin (NS1-NS5) were purposely designed. Tramadol was loaded into nanosponges by the freeze-drying method. The prepared nanosponges were characterized and formulated into tablets and evaluated.
Results: The particle sizes of tramadol-loaded nanosponges are in between 34.38 to 134.26 nm, encapsulation efficiency of 41.13-86.72% and drug release% at 6h of 52.34-81.12%. In vitro release studies showed that more than 90 % of the drug were released from nanosponge formulations as compared to only around 20% from free drug suspension after 24 h. The FTIR, DSC and XRPD studies confirmed the interaction of Tramadol with nanosponges. TEM image revealed the spherical structure of drug-loaded nanosponges. The drug-loaded in the nanosponge structure can be retained and released slowly over time. The nanosponges were formulated into tablets and evaluated for weight variation, hardness, friability and disintegration studies and obtained satisfactory results. In vitro release of drug from tablet showed controlled release behavior for a period of 12 h. The percentage of tramadol released from nanosponges tablets after was 87.48 percent and stability studies indicated no significant changes within 6 months.
Conclusion: Cyclodextrin-based nanosponges showed superior complexing ability with increased solubility of poorly soluble Tramadol tablets made for controlled drug delivery, which can reduce dosing frequency.
PREPARATION, CHARACTERIZATION AND SAFETY ASSESSMENT OF COMBINATORIAL NANOPARTICLES OF CARVEDILOL AND SERICIN
Authors: SHARIQ MOHAMMAD , ANSARI TARIQUE MAHMOOD , KUSHWAHA POONAM , PARVEEN SABA , SHAMIM ARSHIYA , AHSAN FAROGH , TAHA KAZMI MOHAMMAD
Published: May 2022

Objective: The objective of the study is to prepare and evaluate the safety assessment of novel combinatorial Nanoparticle formulation.
Methods: Chitosan nanoparticles were prepared by the ionic gelation method with slight modification. Drug-drug interaction was evaluated by Fourier Transform Infra-Red Spectroscopy. Size, Polydispersity Index, Zeta potential, Transmission Electron Microscopy Characterizations were performed as per standard procedures. Acute and subacute toxicity assessments were done by the standard protocol of OECD guideline number 425 and 407, respectively.
Results: Size and zeta-potential were found to be 186.7 nm and-12.0mV, respectively. TEM analysis showed uniform, smooth, and spherical-sized particles. FTIR analysis of carvedilol, sericin, and physical mixture showed no interaction between them. The safety evaluation of prepared nanoparticle which was found to be safe at a dose of up to 1000 mg/kg body weight in single-dose acute toxicity and multiple-dose subacute toxicity study. Biochemical estimations were statistically evaluated and no significant differences were found that the mean P-value is greater than 0.05 and Histopathological examination has shown no marked disparity when compared to the normal control group.
Conclusion: It can be concluded that the prepared Nanoparticles are safe in rodents and can be preceded for further evaluation for its preclinical cardioprotective potential.
BIOANALYTICAL METHOD FOR SIMULTANEOUS ESTIMATION OF RIBOCICLIB AND LETROZOLE AND ITS APPLICATION TO PHARMACOKINETIC STUDIES USING ULTRA-PERFORMANCE LIQUID CHROMATOGRAPHY
Authors: PRASANTHI S. , HIMABINDU G. , KUMAR YAGATI VAMSI
Published: May 2022

Objective: An easy, quick, precise, active and reproducible UPLC technique was developed for the bioanalytical method of Ribociclib and Letrozole using Lapatinib as the internal standard.
Methods: This article summarizes the recent progress on bioanalytical UPLC method using phenyl column (100x2.1 mm, 1.7µ) column and an organic mobile phase of 0.1% Tri fluoro acetic acid and Acetonitrile in 50:50 with a flow of 0.5 ml/min. An injection volume of 5 microliters was used. Lapatinib was used as an internal standard.
Results: The drugs were found at Letrozole (m/z 435.46/216.55), Ribociclib (m/z 506.34/167.43) and Lapatinib (internal standard, m/z 582.37/184.29), respectively. Tests were performed in less than five minutes on Ribociclib (r2 = 0.99953; concentration range: 2 to 40 ng/ml) and Letrozole (r2 = 0.99915; concentration range: 0.025 to 0.5 ng/ml). The study's precision and recovery results were determined to be accurate. Accuracy, precision, recovery, matrix effect and stability results were found to be within the suitable limits. Simple and efficient method was developed and utilized in pharmacokinetic studies to see the investigated analyte in body fluids.
Conclusion: The application denotes all the parameters of system suitability, specificity, linearity and accuracy are in good agreement with USFDA guidelines and applied effectively for the investigation of pharmacokinetic studies in rabbit.
Dampak COVID-19 Terhadap Sektor Pendidikan
Authors: Sucia Dara , Kusuma Wahyu Andhyka
Published: May 2022

Pendidikan saat ini menjadi dasar dari kemajuan generasi bangsa. Peserta didik sebagai generasi penerus bangsa dipersiapkan untuk masa depan. Pastinya tenaga pendidik merupakan kunci utama untuk menghasilkan generasi emas indonesia. Wabah COVID-19 telah menggangu proses pembelajaran, yang menuntut sektor pendidikan untuk melakukan berbagai perubahan dan adaptasi demi pelaksanaan proses pembelajaran tetap berjalan dengan baik. Tentunya banyak kendala dalam pelaksanaan pembelajaran secara daring dimana peserta didik diharuskan belajar dirumah saja untuk menghindari terpapar virus. Sistem pembelajaran dilaksanakan melalui ponsel, komputer, laptop yang terhubungan dengan koneksi internet. Dosen dapat melakukan pembelajaran bersama diwaktu yang sama menggunakan media sosial, seperti google classroom, edmodo, whatsapp dan sebagainya. Dengan demikian, dosen dapat memastikan mahasiswa mengikuti kegiatan pembelajaran meski tidak secara keseluruhan.
Corporate governance and firm integrated performance: A conceptual framework
Authors: Nagendrakumar Nagalingam , Kumarapperuma Chathurini , Malinga Chathura , Gayanthika Kalpani , Amanda Nethmi , Perera Ashini
Published: May 2022

Though the corporate governance has been studied from the viewpoint of first, accounting and financial performance (Khatib & Nour, 2021; Goel, 2018; Mohamed, Basuony, & Badawi, 2013), next, marketing performance (El Fawal & Mawlawi, 2018), and finally, logistic and supply chain performance (Hernawati & Surya, 2019) in isolation, moreover, literature on the first is comparatively higher than on the other two, it is further argued that it has not been studied from the viewpoint of firm integrated performance. The purpose of this study, therefore, is to conceptualize the relationship between corporate governance and firm integrated performance. The study adopted a rigorous literature review in forming critical arguments for the theme studied. Accordingly, the study embraced rigorous a priori knowledge in building the arguments for hypotheses development. The study proposes a conceptual framework for the relationship between corporate governance and firm integrated performance which has the potential of facilitating efficient decision-making on corporate governance and firm integrated performance. The study concludes with a foundation for the theoretical basis of the relationship between corporate governance and firm integrated performance
A high-order predictor-corrector method for initial value problems with fractional derivative involving Mittag-Leffler kernel
Authors: ALJHANI SAMI , Noorani Mohd Salmi Md , Douaifia Redouane , Abdelmalek Salem
Published: May 2022

In this paper, we propose a numerical scheme of the predictor-corrector
type for solving nonlinear fractional initial value problems, the chosen
fractional derivative is called the Atangana-Baleanu derivative defined
in Caputo sense (ABC). This proposed method is based on Lagrangian
quadratic polynomials to approximate the nonlinearity implied in the
Volterra integral which is obtained by reducing the given fractional
differential equation via the properties of the ABC-fractional
derivative. Through this technique, we get corrector formula with high
accuracy which is implicit as well as predictor formula which is
explicit and has the same precision order as the corrective formula. On
the other hand, the so-called memory term is computed only once for both
prediction and correction phases, which indicates the low cost of the
proposed method. Also, the error bound of the proposed numerical scheme
is offered. Furthermore, numerical experiments are presented in order to
assess the accuracy of the new method on two differential equations.
Moreover, a case study is considered where the proposed
predictor-corrector scheme is used to obtained approximate solutions of
ABC-fractional generalized SI (susceptible-infectious) epidemic model
for the purpose of analyzing dynamics of the suggested system as well as
demonstrating the effectiveness of the new method to solve systems
dealing with real-world problems.
Application of polyether ether ketone in obturator telescopic prosthesis fabrication: A case report
Authors: Radosavljevic Radivoje , Tabakovic Sasa , Todic Jelena , Mitic Ankica , Djordjevic Nadica , Lazic Vojkan , Dubovina Dejan
Published: May 2022

Introduction. The retention, stability, and plaque resistance of the obturator prosthesis significantly impact the improvement of the patient?s quality of life. The aim of this paper was to draw attention to the benefits of telescopic obturator prostheses made of polyether ether ketone (PEEK). Case report. We present an approach to the telescopic obturator fabrication using PEEK as the material of choice for the primary and secondary telescopic crowns, which are an integral part of the framework, in a 65-year-old patient with partial maxillectomy. The positioning of the teeth was made with a silicone key, and the featuring of the gingival part of the prosthesis was performed by a composite. Conclusion. PEEK is a polymer with good mechanical and chemical properties besides being bio-compatible. An obturator prosthesis made of this material does not incur enormous fabrication costs, and its satisfactory functionality contributes to the improvement of patients? lives.
The importance of muscle mass in predicting intradialytic hypotension in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis
Authors: Son Hyung Eun , Ryu Ji Young , Lee Kyunghoon , Choi Young Il , Kim Myeong Sung , Park Inwhee , Shin Gyu Tae , Kim Heungsoo , Ahn Curie , Kim Sejoong , Chin Ho Jun , Na Ki Young , Chae Dong-Wan , Ahn Soyeon , Hwang Seung Sik , Jeong Jong Cheol
Published: May 2022

Background: Patients undergoing hemodialysis are susceptible to sarcopenia. As intracellular reservoirs of water, skeletal muscles are important contributors to intradialytic hypotension. This study was designed to determine the role of skeletal muscle mass in intradialytic hypotension. Methods: In a cross-sectional study, the body composition of 177 patients was measured immediately after hemodialysis using bioelectrical impedance analysis. The parameters measured were skeletal muscle mass, intracellular and extracellular water contents, total body water, and cell-membrane functionality (in phase angle at 50 kHz). Data from laboratory tests, chest radiography, measurements of handgrip strength and mid-arm circumference, and questionnaires were collected. The main outcome was intradialytic hypotension, defined as more than two episodes of hypotension (systolic blood pressure of <90 mmHg) with intervention over the 3 months following enrollment. Logistic regression models including each parameter related to sarcopenia were compared with a clinical model. Results: Patients with a low ratio of skeletal muscle mass to dry body weight (SMM/WT) had a higher rate of intradialytic hypotension (40.7%). Most low-SMM/WT patients were female, obese, diabetic, and had a lower handgrip strength compared with the other patients. In the high-SMM/WT group, the risk of intradialytic hypotension was lower, with an odds ratio of 0.08 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.02–0.28) and adjusted odds ratio of 0.06 (95% CI, 0.01–0.29). Conclusion: Measurement and maintenance of skeletal muscle can help prevent intradialytic hypotension in frail patients undergoing hemodialysis.
Making the most of cybercrime and fraud crime report data: a case study of UK Action Fraud
Authors: Giro Correia Sara
Published: May 2022

IntroductionResearchers and public authorities are increasingly exploring the potential of administrative data to generate new insights. This includes recent work leveraging the opportunities of the crime report data collected by the UK's national reporting centre Action Fraud (AF). However, the quality of these data and its implications for data users have not been systematically analysed.
ObjectivesThis paper outlines challenges and opportunities of using AF data in cybercrime and fraud victimisation research and practice and makes recommendations to improve the quality of this dataset.
MethodsThe author has undertaken two studies using samples of AF data pertaining to crime reports within the Welsh police forces, between 2014 and 2020. Quality diagnostic checks, reflections and methodological decisions were considered across each study. These were reviewed, key themes were identified and discussed with data users and a broader group of researchers to finalise the recommendations presented.
ResultsThe strengths and limitations of AF data are discussed and grouped into themes, closely aligned with four quality dimensions widely used by statistical authorities. This includes an assessment of 1) the impact of under-reporting and 2) the purpose and rules of crime recording, on the relevance of the data to its users; 3) the accuracy and reliability of the data; 4) the consistency of recording and its impact on coherence and comparability; and 5) the accessibility and timeliness of the data.
ConclusionsRecommendations are made to improve AF data to generate better quality insights across the dimensions of relevance, accuracy & reliability, coherence & comparability and the accessibility & timeliness of this dataset. Additionally, a data catalogue would enable frontline officers and researchers to make the most of this dataset, harnessing it to produce key insights for crime prevention, investigation, and victim support.
Study of the Behavior of Wall Sandwich Panels Irrigated with a Drencher Curtain at the Unilateral Thermal Exposure
Authors:   Ufa State Petroleum Technical University, Sharafutdinov A.A. , Krasnov A.V. ,   Ufa State Petroleum Technical University, Gazizov A.M. ,   Ufa State Petroleum Technical University
Published: May 2022

In the last ten years, drencher curtains are widely used at the large production facilities to increase fire resistance of the building structures. The length of the drencher curtains used as a compensating measure instead of fire walls can reaches 250 m. A three-dimensional modeling of the operation of a drencher curtain together with a type 1 fire barrier in the form of a sandwich panel was performed. FireCat software package was used for modeling. One of its components is the PyroSim software package designed for fire modeling. A field model was chosen as a mathematical model of fire development. A number of simulations was carried out at a given sprinkler flow rate of 1 l/s, but at different distances between the sprinklers (different number of sprinklers operating in one stream was used) — from 0.5 to 5 m. As a result, it is established that when sprinklers are placed at a distance of no more than 2.5 meters from each other, the model meets the fire resistance requirements for type 1 fire walls. The experiments were carried out in the irrigation intensity range of 0.1–0.5 l/s·m. It is established that in order to achieve fire resistance limit REI 150, the irrigation intensity must be at least 0.37 l/s·m. The studies carried out made it possible to obtain qualitative data on the efficiency of drencher curtains plaсed in one line as a measure to increase the time limits of fire resistance of fire barriers from 45 to 150 minutes.
Klassische und agile Ansätze in Verbindung. Zukunftweisendes Projektmanagement
Authors: Rank Ann-Kathrin
Published: May 2022

Die Zahl der durchgeführten Projekte und die damit verbundenen Anforderungen steigen zunehmend. Dadurch rückt auch die Frage nach der passenden Vorgehensweise immer stärker in den Fokus der leitenden Projektmitarbeiter. Die Abschlussarbeit „Der Projektmanagement Prozess – Verzahnung von klassischen und agilen Vorgehensweisen am Beispiel der W&W AG“ liefert hierfür eine konkrete Antwort. Durch eine enge Verknüpfung von Theorie und Praxis wurde in der Arbeit ein handlungsleitendes Modell geschaffen, mithilfe dessen die sinnvollste Vorgehensweise für jeden Projektgegenstand der Wüstenrot & Württembergische (W&W) AG ermittelt werden kann. In diesem Artikel erfahren Sie mehr über die Entstehung dieses Modells und wie es bei der W&W AG im Unternehmen eingebunden wird.
Three-dimensional hydrogel culture systems support growth and determination of chemosensitivity of feline sarcoma and carcinoma cell lines
Authors: Cavalcanti Jacqueline V. J. , Selting Kimberly A. , Ngo Mai T. , Tran Hoang Christine K. , Schaeffer David J. , Fan Timothy M. , Harley Brendan A. C. , Phillips Heidi
Published: May 2022

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate feline injection site-associated sarcoma (FISAS) and oral squamous cell carcinoma (FOSCC) cells in 3-D hydrogel-based cell cultures to determine chemosensitivity to carboplatin at concentrations comparable to those eluted from carboplatin-impregnated calcium sulfate hemihydrate (C-ICSH) beads.

SAMPLE

2 immortalized cell lines, each from a histologically confirmed primary FISAS and FOSCC.

PROCEDURES

Hydrogels (10% wt/vol) were formed via UV exposure from methacrylamide-functionalized gelatin dissolved in PBSS. For each cell line, approximately 100,000 cells were encapsulated per hydrogel. Three cell-seeded 3-D hydrogels were evaluated for each carboplatin concentration (0, 150, 300, 450, and 600 µM) across 3 experiments. Drug efficacy was assessed by luminescence assay 72 hours after treatment. Growth of tumor cells treated with 300 µM or 600 µM carboplatin was evaluated using live-cell morphology imaging and confocal microscopy at 3, 7, and 14 days after treatment.

RESULTS

Mean half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values for FISAS and FOSCC cells ranged from 123 to 171 µM and 155 to 190 µM, respectively, based on luminescence assay. Viability at 3, 7, and 14 days for both cell lines at 300 µM carboplatin was 50%, 25%, and 5% and at 600 µM carboplatin was 25%, 10%, and < 5%.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

3-D hydrogel cell culture systems supported growth of feline tumor cells for determination of in vitro chemosensitivity. IC50s of each cell line were within the range of carboplatin concentrations eluted from C-ICSH beads. Cells from FISAS and FOSCC cell lines treated with carboplatin showed dose-dependent and time-dependent decreases in viability.
Veterinarians’ use of the Talking Physical Exam as a communication tool
Authors: da Costa Judith C. , Coe Jason B. , Blois Shauna L. , Stone Elizabeth A.
Published: May 2022

OBJECTIVE

To describe veterinarians’ communication of the companion animal physical exam (CAPE) to veterinary clients and to identify factors associated with the number of physical exam components communicated by veterinarians to clients.

SAMPLE

376 video-recorded veterinarian-client-patient interactions, involving 60 veterinarians.

PROCEDURES

18 CAPE components were studied in relation to veterinarians’ use of 7 communication-related parameters. A mixed linear regression model was used to assess veterinarian, patient, and appointment factors associated with the number of components conveyed by a veterinarian.

RESULTS

Veterinarians conveyed 1,566 of 2,794 (56.1%) of the components that they examined to clients, as having been examined. Of those components that were examined and conveyed by veterinarians, the impact of the finding was communicated for 496 of 1,566 (31.7%) of the components. Visual aids and take-home literature were each used in relation to an examined component during 15 of the 376 interactions (4%). A significant association was found between number of CAPE components conveyed and gender of the veterinarian (females conveyed 1.31 more), as well as the type of appointment (2.57 more were conveyed in wellness appointments and 1.37 more in problem appointments, compared to rechecks).

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Findings identify an opportunity for veterinarians to further emphasize components of the CAPE, which may in turn increase clients’ perceived value of the CAPE due to understanding the benefits for their pet. This may be accomplished with the Talking Physical Exam, in which veterinarians discuss CAPE components findings with clients in real time, and the relevance of the findings to the patient’s health.
Bronchoscopic Intrapulmonary Recombinant Factor VIIa for Diffuse Alveolar Hemorrhage-induced Acute Respiratory Failure in MPO-ANCA Vasculitis: A Case Report
Authors: Smesseim Illaa , Schaepman-Ruys Titia , Duitman Jan Willem , Vegting Yosta , Raasveld Jorinde , Hilhorst Marc , Vlaar Alexander , van Es Josien , Bonta Peter
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Diffuse alveolar haemorrhage (DAH) is a potentially life-threatening disease, characterized by diffuse accumulation of red blood cells within the alveoli. It can be caused by a variety of disorders. In case DAH results in severe respiratory failure, veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO) can be required. Since VV-ECMO coincides with the need for anticoagulation therapy, this results in a major clinical challenge in DAH patients with hemoptysis.

Case presentation

We report a patient case with severe DAH-induced acute respiratory failure and hemoptysis in need for VV-ECMO complicated by life-threatening membrane oxygenator thrombosis. The DAH-induced hemoptysis was successfully treated with local bronchoscopic recombinant factor VIIa (rFVIIa), allowing systemic anticoagulation to prevent further membrane oxygenator thrombosis. Neither systemic clinical side effects nor differences in the serum coagulation markers occurred after applying recombinant factor VIIa (rFVIIa) treatment endobronchially.

Conclusion

This is, to our knowledge, the first case that reports the use of rFVIIa in a patient with DAH due to vasculitis and in need for VV-ECMO complicated by membrane oxygenator thrombosis.
Severe Coronary Artery Vasospasm after Mitral Valve Replacement in a Diabetic Patient with Previous Stent Implantation: A Case Report
Authors: Stoica Alexandra Iulia , Harpa Marius , Banceu Cosmin Marian , Kovacs Judith , Suciu Horatiu
Published: May 2022

Postoperative coronary vasospasm is a well-known cause of angina that may lead to myocardial infarction if not treated promptly. We report a case of a 70-year-old female with severe mitral regurgitation submitted to mitral valve replacement, and a history of diabetes mellitus type II, stroke, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura on steroid therapy, and previous percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for severe obstruction of the circumflex coronary artery, 4 months prior to surgery. Immediately after intensive care unit admission, the patient developed pulseless electrical activity which required extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for hemodynamic support. The coronary angiography showed diffuse occlusive coronary artery vasospasm, ameliorated after intra-coronary administration of nitroglycerin. The following postoperative evolution was marked by cardiogenic shock and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome. Subsequent echocardiographic findings showed an increase in left ventricular function with an EF of 40%, and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support was weaned after seven days. However, after a few hours, the patient progressively deteriorated, with cardiac arrest and no response to resuscitation maneuvers. Hemodynamic instability following the surgical procedure in a patient with previous PCI associated with an autoimmune disease and diabetes mellitus should raise the suspicion of a coronary artery vasospasm.
Ecological and morphological differentiation among COI haplotype groups in the plant parasitic nematode species Mesocriconema xenoplax
Authors: Matczyszyn Julianne N. , Harris Timothy , Powers Kirsten , Everhart Sydney E. , Powers Thomas O.
Published: May 2022

DNA barcoding with the mitochondrial COI gene reveals distinct haplotype subgroups within the monophyletic and parthenogenetic nematode species, Mesocriconema xenoplax. Biological attributes of these haplotype groups (HG) have not been explored. An analysis of M. xenoplax from 40 North American sites representing both native plant communities and agroecosystems was conducted to identify possible subgroup associations with ecological, physiological, or geographic factors. A dataset of 132 M. xenoplax specimens was used to generate sequences of a 712 bp region of the cytochrome oxidase subunit I gene. Maximum-likelihood and Bayesian phylogenies recognized seven COI HG (≥99/0.99 posterior probability/bootstrap value). Species delimitation metrics largely supported the genetic integrity of the HG. Discriminant function analysis of HG morphological traits identified stylet length, total body length, and stylet knob width as the strongest distinguishing features among the seven groups, with stylet length as the strongest single distinguishing morphological feature. Multivariate analysis identified land cover, ecoregion, and maximum temperature as predictors of 53.6% of the total variation (P = 0.001). Within land cover, HG categorized under “herbaceous,” “woody wetlands,” and “deciduous forest” were distinct in DAPC and RDA analyses and were significantly different (analysis of molecular variance P = 0.001). These results provide empirical evidence for molecular, morphological, and ecological differentiation associated with HG within the monophyletic clade that represents the species Mesocriconema xenoplax.
Dynamics of hydrological droughts propagation in mountainous catchments
Authors: Kozek Malwina , Tomaszewski Edmund
Published: May 2022

In the study, hydrological drought was identified assuming that the occurrence of river low-flow is a symptom of drought, and is also a good estimator of its progress. The research was conducted in the upper Dunajec river catchment, for which a series of daily discharges from 20 gauging stations during the period 1989–2018 were available. The low-flow periods were identified on the basis of the Threshold Level Method, which corresponds to the seventieth percentile of the flow duration curve. On the basis of a developed algorithm, 41 drought events were identified. Analysis included spatial parameters referring to range, severity, concentration, continuation, and the development pace of hydrological drought. Finally, on the basis of cluster analysis, five dynamic types of hydrological drought were identified.
Municipal investment expenditures by pork-barrel mayors: evidence from a transition economy
Authors: Leśniewska-Napierała Katarzyna , Napierała Tomasz
Published: May 2022

The focus of this study is electoral accounting practices employed by mayors in municipalities in a selected, exemplary region in a post-socialist country – the Lodz region in Central Poland. The goal is to identify characteristics of pork-barrel mayors responsible for municipal investment expenditures: their terms of office, partisan affiliation, and gender. The generalised method of moments was applied to estimate the impact that the electoral accounting practices of mayors had on municipal investment expenditures. All 177 municipalities in the Lodz region were investigated, from 2003 until 2019. Contrary to expectations, it was found that electoral accounting was practised by next-term and independent mayors rather than first-term or party-affiliated ones.
SIX NEW SPECIES OF WURFBAINIA (ZINGIBERACEAE) FROM THAILAND
Authors: Kaewsri W. , Sangvirotjanapat S.
Published: May 2022

Six new species are described from Thailand: Wurfbainia ellipticarpa, W. geostachyoides, W. globosa, W. longiflora,  W. parviflora and W. yingyongii. A line drawing and photographs, information on phenology,  distribution, ecology and etymology, and a proposed IUCN conservation category are provided for each species. A key to the species of Wurfbainia in Thailand is also provided.
Fatores sociodemográficos, clínicos e funcionais associados à felicidade em idosos: uma revisão integrativa de literatura
Authors: Assis Bárbara Lima
Published: May 2022

Objetivo: Realizar uma revisão integrativa de literatura sobre os fatores sociodemográficos, clínicos e funcionais associados à autopercepção de felicidade em idosos. Metodologia: Foram feitas buscas por meio das bases de dados MEDLINE via PubMed, Science Direct, SciELO, LILACS, MedCarib e PEDro, nos últimos 10 anos com as palavras happiness, aged, variables. Resultados: Foram considerados elegíveis para esta revisão 10 artigos. Os estudos selecionados, todos observacionais, totalizando 23.165 idosos, com média de idade de 71,05 anos e prevalência do sexo feminino, apontaram que possuir uma boa renda, boa condição de saúde, funcionalidade e praticar atividade física são aspectos favoráveis relacionados com a felicidade em idosos. Não possuir companheiro(a), doenças crônicas, pior função física, baixo volume de atividade física, má alimentação e baixa renda estabelecem relações negativas com a felicidade em idosos. Idade e gênero não apresentaram significância estatística. Conclusão: Os fatores sociodemográficos, clínicos e funcionais influenciam positivamente e negativamente a autopercepção de felicidade em idosos, observando-se um maior nível de felicidade nos indivíduos que apresentam aspectos positivos da velhice.
Stryphnodendron adstringens (MART.) Coville (barbatimão): POTENCIAL BIOPRAGUICIDA
Authors: Pereira Sinval Garcia , Gonçalves Flávio Guilherme Pereira
Published: May 2022

Introdução: Abordagem ecológica de manejo com uso de biopesticidas é uma alternativa aos produtos químicos sintéticos, são naturalmente biodegradáveis, apresentam diferentes modos de ação, são mais baratos e possuem menos toxicidade para os organismos vivos. Objetivo: Estudos em laboratório foram conduzidos para avaliar o potencial biopraguicida de extratos de Stryphnodendron adstringens contra o gorgulho-do-milho (Sitophilus zeamais), usando quatro concentrações (15, 30, 60 e 100%) e também a fitotoxicidade sobre feijão-caupi (Vigna unguiculata) em laboratório. Resultados: Os resultados revelaram que a mortalidade do gorgulho-do-milho aumentou com o aumento da concentração, a mortalidade máxima (92,0 %) da praga foi observada com o uso de extrato de S. adstringens nas concentrações de 60 e 100%, enquanto a fitotoxicidade, as maiores inibições foram de em 67,5 e 95,2%, respectivamente, para a radícula e hipocótilo na maior concentração. Conclusão: Se bem especificado, o biopesticida obtido de S. adstringens pode ser benignos em seus efeitos humanos e ambientais.
Palavras-chave: Bioensaio; Extrato; Vigna unguiculata; Sitophilus zeamais.
O uso de agrotóxicos no Brasil a partir de uma visão histórica acerca das bases legislativas
Authors: Sousa Damiao sampaio de , Mendes Francisco Rogênio da Silva , Vasconcelos Sandro Olímpio Silva , Santos Hélcio Silva dos , Marinho Gabrielle Silva , Marinho Márcia Machado , Marinho Emmanuel Silva
Published: May 2022

Introdução: O Brasil tornou-se um dos maiores consumidores de agrotóxicos do mundo, devido ao sistema agrícola convencional, arcabouço tecnológico e influência política, fatores esses que contribuíram para uma industrialização rápida, imprudente e precoce. Entretanto, a preocupação com a preservação ambiental e saúde pública foram negligenciados, pois os interesses das empresas multinacionais e políticos prevaleceram acerca das questões sanitárias. Objetivo: O estudo é uma reflexão acerca da temática dos agrotóxicos no cenário brasileiro, com ênfase na faixa histórica da legislação brasileira, na perspectiva da proteção ambiental e saúde coletiva. Metodologia: Foi baseada em uma análise legislativa dos agrotóxicos no Brasil fundamentada em uma faixa histórica de antes e depois da Constituição Federal de 1988 visando investigar os avanços e retrocessos políticos no aspecto ambiental. Resultados:  A partir do referencial histórico percebe-se que anterior a Lei dos Agrotóxicos a liberação de agrotóxicos no Brasil foi facilitada pela criação de diversos instrumentos legislativos com influências sociais, econômicas e políticas. As demais legislações instituídas após 1988, nota-se as perceptíveis tentativas de retrocessos diante dos aspectos de monitoramento e liberação de agrotóxicos. Conclusão: Aponta-se que a legislação dos agrotóxicos apesar de seus avanços está perante um retrocesso histórico após diversas lutas e vitórias, apresentando de forma contundente, que essa nova construção histórica ambiental envolve em sua maior componente influências políticas.
Violencia Estatal y Resistencias: Memorias de la Revuelta de octubre 2019 en Chile
Authors: Quiñones Natalia , Galaz Caterine
Published: May 2022

Después de más de 30 años del fin de la dictadura en Chile, se desarrollan una serie de movilizaciones sociales a través del país levantando una crítica directa al modelo neoliberal, el cual fue reforzado por los gobiernos en democracia. Este artículo analiza las memorias que se construyen a partir de la violencia de Estado vivida durante la revuelta social de octubre de 2019 en Chile y las prácticas de resistencia de individuos y colectivos a las violaciones a Derechos Humanos que se produjeron en dicho contexto. Siguiendo una metodología cualitativa se llevó a cabo la recopilación de una serie de testimonios sobre estos eventos, principalmente a través de entrevistas en profundidad de personas que vivieron y/o fueron testigo de violencia de Estado en el levantamiento y de diversas prácticas de resistencia social. Se concluye que existen continuidades y discontinuidades con los recuerdos sobre la violencia dictatorial del pasado, como también nuevas formas de resistencia y organización social no formal a la luz de estos hechos.
Entre el recuerdo y el olvido. Dos masacres estudiantiles en México
Authors: Mendoza Jorge , Carpio Pérez Amílcar , Zavala Rayas Javier
Published: May 2022

Dos matanzas estudiantiles en un lapso breve, menos de tres años. México en los años sesenta y setenta del siglo XX vivió en una lógica autoritaria y de represión en distintos órdenes sociales y políticos. De la matanza de Tlatelolco ya han transcurrido 53 años, del Jueves de Corpus va a cumplirse medio siglo. El trabajo que presentamos es una reconstrucción narrativa por parte de participantes de esos dos movimientos y que sobrevivieron a las balas que esos días apagaron incontables vidas de sus compañeros. La reconstrucción se efectúa desde la perspectiva teórica de la memoria colectiva; en términos metodológicos se trabaja desde la narración. Se entrevista a participantes de ese entonces y a jóvenes actuales para conocer el significado de esos eventos a varias décadas de distancia; lo colectivo, es que estos sucesos resultan de especial relevancia desde una lógica grupal.
Prácticas De Resistencia En Territorios De Conflicto Armado.
Authors: Sánchez García Claudia Johana , Hincapié Gómez Ángela Esmeralda
Published: May 2022

El presente artículo analiza las prácticas de resistencia de personas y colectivos que, sin acceso a programas de reparación del Estado, decidieron quedarse en territorios de confrontación armada entre las FARC-EP y los paramilitares (1998-2004); prácticas que les permitieron sobrevivir, tramitar efectos de esas experiencias en su salud mental y establecer una posición crítica frente al abandono del Estado y el accionar de los violentos. El método fue un estudio de caso con población rural perteneciente al Oriente Antioqueño Colombiano, usando instrumentos de entrevistas, observación participativa y revisión documental. Entre los resultados, hay tres que merecen ser citados: a) la población rural que ha permanecido en territorios de intensa y prolongada confrontación armada construyó una forma de resistir cotidiana, individual, de carácter sutil y oculto, b) también lograron formas de resistir en lo colectivo, confrontando de manera directa los actores armados para protegerse conjuntamente, c) a pesar del sufrimiento y las pérdidas causadas por el conflicto armado, el dolor no paralizó su existencia, por el contrario, ellos demuestran una capacidad de agencia y la posibilidad de movilizarse ante el sufrimiento.
Abusos de la memoria por el Gobierno salvadoreño y las prácticas de resistencia desde las nuevas generaciones
Authors: Chacón Serrano Fernando , Fabián Rodríguez Cristian , Escobar Pacheco Jacqueline , Marroquín Salamanca Daniela , Aparicio Silis Andrea , Menjívar Cartagena Flavio
Published: May 2022

El Salvador atraviesa una crisis sociopolítica significativa, relacionada a una historia reciente marcada por la violencia y el miedo como constantes. A casi 30 años del fin formal del Conflicto Armado que le azotó por doce años, las dinámicas sociales y políticas consecuentes se han ido configurando como contexto posibilitador de prácticas autoritarias por parte del gobierno de turno; uno que pretende imponer una narrativa hegemónica del Conflicto y los Acuerdos de Paz. El presente ensayo pretende reflexionar de qué manera el gobierno actual abusa de la memoria del Conflicto Armado salvadoreño para favorecer sus prácticas autoritarias; cuyo (contra)efecto es la emergencia de prácticas de resistencia desde las nuevas generaciones, usando como caso de reflexión la movilización ciudadano-cibernética “#ProhibidoOlvidarSV”, acontecida en las redes sociales en enero de 2021. La intención es poner sobre la mesa la potencialidad del fenómeno de la memoria como base para la acción política, vista desde una perspectiva intergeneracional, que le haga contrapeso a las iniciativas que atentan contra la poca democracia alcanzada hasta ahora.
Políticas de la memoria como herramientas para la acción en el actual escenario latinoamericano.
Authors: Vélez-Maya Margarita María , Arboleda-Ariza Juan Carlos , Piper- Shafir Isabel
Published: May 2022

América Latina en sus últimos años asiste a un ciclo de revueltas sociales que se configuran a partir de un conjunto heterogéneo de demandas, enfrentamientos, formas de organización y violencias. Estas distintas experiencias se han caracterizado, entre otras cosas, por una fuerte circulación de elementos artísticos, simbólicos y performativos que se han constituido en repertorios de lucha para los colectivos y grupos movilizados en los diferentes contextos. En muchos casos, estos se constituyen en reapropiaciones y/o reinterpretaciones de elementos empleados en el pasado, vinculando las nuevas luchas con las memorias del pasado reciente en la región.