bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Covid-19 e os povos indígenas da Guiana Francesa: desafios e estratégias governamentais
Authors: Costa Beatriz Souza , Santos Henrique de Almeida , Castro Paula Rezende de
Published: June 2024

This study aimed to analyze the fight Against the COVID-19 pandemic in the largest French overseas region, mainly in relation to the indigenous communities in the Amazon Forest. The method used was hypothetical-deductive, with a quantitative and qualitative problem. The objectives were exploratory, descriptive, and explanatory in nature, and the collection techniques used were documentary and bibliographic research. It was concluded that the country has adopted public policies as a way to prevent the spread of the disease, including monitoring of infected citizens. However, the precariousness of the local health system, the low supply of hospital services, and also several difficulties caused by local pluralism and the geography of the territory made it difficult to manage the pandemic, especially in indigenous communities.
Internação involuntária e direitos humanos: a percepção dos usuários de drogas como protagonistas da fala
Authors: Correia Junior Rubens , Brito Emanuele Seicenti de , Bonato Patrícia de Paula Queiroz , Ventura Carla Aparecida Arena
Published: June 2024

This article aimed to understand the perception of drug users involuntarily admitted, in a therapeutic clinic in the countryside of Minas Gerais, on the experience of their human rights, focusing on situations of exclusion favored by the evolution of legislation, public policies, and practices of health services for drug users. It is a qualitative research, whose data collection took place through semistructured interviews, participant observation, and documentary analysis having as reference the dialectical approach, in which the researcher, when looking at the individual, interprets their speech considering the surrounding environment and also considering and distinguishing the cultural, emotional, and social nuances of the discourse. The results identified the exclusion of drug users and intramural consolidation of a segregating and repressive character without a commitment to the re-socialization and reintegration of vulnerable people into society. The interviews revealed a lack of perception by drug users of their fundamental rights and guarantees. Furthermore, there was a lack of support in relation to the protagonism of their speech and the absence of possibilities for listening and autonomy. It was also observed the absence of guarantees and fundamental rights, which were sometimes suspended despite a fully consolidated institution. It is concluded that drug users belong to a portion of society that is excluded and weakened by the object of consumption, which ends up mitigating and deconstructing their rights and voice.
Behavioral responses of tadpoles of Sphaerotheca breviceps (Dicroglossidae), Duttaphrynus melanostictus (Bufonidae), and Polypedates maculatus (Rhacophoridae) to kairomones and dietary cues of a rare insect predator, Ranatra elongata (Nepidae)
Authors: Mogali Santosh M. , Shanbhag Bhagyashri A. , Saidapur Srinivas K.
Published: June 2024

Os girinos de três espécies simpátricas de anuros, Sphaerotheca breviceps, Duttaphrynus melanostictus e Polypedates maculatus, usam a quimiorrecepção para detectar sinais de cairomônios e metabólitos excretórios de girinos predadores ativos de anuros (Hoplobatrachus tigerinus) que os consomem. Neste trabalho, descrevemos as respostas comportamentais dos girinos dessas três espécies a um raro inseto predador do tipo senta-e-espera, o nepídeo Ranatra elongata. Os cairomônios do predador (água condicionada por um predador faminto) ou cairomônios + metabólitos derivados da dieta (sinais dietéticos liberados na excreta do predador após o consumo de presas coespecíficas) foram usados para simular o risco de predação. Os girinos das três espécies não apresentaram respostas comportamentais aos cairomônios do predador. No entanto, todas as três espécies reduziram drasticamente os movimentos de natação e o tempo total gasto nadando e tiveram uma maior velocidade de explosão/velocidade de natação em resposta a sinais transportados pela água e liberados da excreta de predadores alimentados com presas coespecíficas. Como a presença de R. elongata não provoca comportamentos de defesa nos girinos dessas três espécies de presas, informação adicional relacionada à digestão de coespecíficos é necessária para eliciar comportamentos defensivos, sugerindo que a presença de cairomônios não é suficiente para provocar comportamentos de defesa.
Desburocratização e silêncio administrativo na liberação de atividade econômica
Authors: Martins Pedro Henrique Incerpi Paiva , Martins Junior Wallace Paiva
Published: June 2024

The Economic Freedom Act suppresses or reduces the state intervention in economic activity, what is convenient to study the desbureaucracy measures provided for in it. Beyond criticism on the way of regulation on low-risk activies (which dispenses governmental release), the utilization of eloquente silente on liberation acts of economic activies, althought might be advantageous to the development, and due to the existence of impediments to its application, is an exception to the duties of deciding and motivation that guide the public administration. Administrative silence could be limited to situations of recognition of subjetive law, denying it to the discretionary assessment acts of the Administration, and, based on a distinction between primary and secondary public interest, reserved for the Administration's financial or patrimonial interest. It should also impose the duty of supervision as an adjunct to the positive effect of silence, not only when the act of release is waived, additionally to obliging the individual to declare the beginning of activity. As a general rule, it doesn’t change special laws that do not establish positive effect of administrative silence or deny it on issues related to liberation of economic activity, notably for matters marked by principles such as precaution and prevention.
Is My Tailor a Sinner? Fashion, Economics, and Moral Theology in Early Modern France
Authors: Meiss Marjorie
Published: June 2024

Early modern theologians’ concerns about the fashion industry’s moral implications impacted tailoring practices and the evolution of clothing. Casuistry, a case-based moral reasoning method, helped to shape ethical norms, and tailors were not exempt from scrutiny, with some casuists emphasizing tailors’ moral responsibility in ensuring decency and modesty. The tension between moral imperatives and economic realities caused some tailors to cite customer demands and the risk of losing clientele as reasons for producing immodest garments. This article highlights the complex interplay of morality, economics, and society in the fashion industry during the Early Modern Era.
Consumer Goods or Store of Value? Textile Evidence and Standards of Living in Eighteenth-Century Amsterdam
Authors: Spero Ellan F. , McCants Anne E. C.
Published: June 2024

Before the advent of cheap, mass-produced (and largely cotton) textiles during the classic period of the Industrial Revolution (late eighteenth to mid-nineteenth centuries), clothing was relatively expensive and, because of the care it received, remarkably durable. Textiles often represented a substantial portion of the total assets held by early modern households. Drawing on over 900 after-death inventories of poor and lower middling Amsterdam burgher families registered by the Municipal Orphanage between 1740 and 1782, this article examines the role played by textiles as a “store of value.” The retention of clothing designated as “old,” “very old,” or “old and poor” reveals understandings of the worth of possessions. Indeed, textile goods were for many poor households their main store of wealth, comprising a significant portion of their accumulated assets over a lifetime. Textile goods were also a key access point to new kinds of consumption (new fabrics sometimes from exotic locations and made up in new styles) despite the relative poverty of the population leaving children to the Municipal Orphanage, suggesting that such items also carried important symbolic value not easily captured by their financial value alone.
The first sphagnum bug (Hemiptera: Hebridae) from the Late Cretaceous Kachin amber
Authors: ZHANG XIAO-YU , REN DONG , YAO YUN-ZHI
Published: June 2024

A new genus and species of Hebridae, Archaeohebrus alius gen. et sp. nov., is described from the Late Cretaceous Kachin amber. The new genus is assigned to the Hebridae based on the bucculae elevated posteriorly forming a pair of ridges, short transverse mesoscutellum, and triangular metanotal elevation. This new genus differs from other genera of Hebridae in the forewing having three cells, three-segmented tarsi, and terminally inserted genital segments. The new genus might represent the most basal lineage of Hebridae, and the forewing venation of this Cretaceous hebrids hints at a close relationship between the Mesoveliidae and Hebridae.
A new sawfly from the Paleocene of Menat (Hymenoptera: Tenthredinidae)
Authors: NEL ANDRÉ , WEI MEI-CAI , NIU GENG-YUN , JOUAULT CORENTIN
Published: June 2024

The new tenthredinid Palaeocaiina menatensis gen. et sp. nov. is described and illustrated from the Paleocene of Menat (Puy-de-Dôme, France). Although its preservation complicates the observation of several key characters useful to distinguish between tenthredinid subfamilies, we decided to place this new taxon within the tribe Allantini of the subfamily Allantinae. Its venation of fore- and hind wings combined with the shape of its ovipositor sheaths leads us assume that Palaeocaiina gen. nov. is possibly related to the extant genus Caiina Wei, 2004 distributed in the east Palearctic. Interestingly, this new genus is the oldest known fossil of the subfamily Allantinae.
Introduction to a review series on oncogenic signaling and immune evasion in hematologic malignancies
Authors: Zeiser Robert
Published: June 2024

Introduced by Associate Editor Robert Zeiser, this Review Series focuses on the problem of immune escape by acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The series opens with a review of how AML escapes T-cell–driven elimination and then focuses on how p53 function impinges on AML recognition by immune cells. The series finishes with a summary of new approaches to tackling this major problem.
Alleviating salinity stress in canola (Brassica napus L.) through exogenous application of salicylic acid
Authors: Ilyas Maria , Maqsood Muhammad Faisal , Shahbaz Muhammad , Zulfiqar Usman , Ahmad Kamran , Naz Nargis , Ali Muhammad Fraz , Ahmad Muhammad , Ali Qasim , Yong Jean Wan Hong , Ali Hayssam M.
Published: June 2024

Canola, a vital oilseed crop, is grown globally for food and biodiesel. With the enormous demand for growing various crops, the utilization of agriculturally marginal lands is emerging as an attractive alternative, including brackish-saline transitional lands. Salinity is a major abiotic stress limiting growth and productivity of most crops, and causing food insecurity. Salicylic acid (SA), a small-molecule phenolic compound, is an essential plant defense phytohormone that promotes immunity against pathogens. Recently, several studies have reported that SA was able to improve plant resilience to withstand high salinity. For this purpose, a pot experiment was carried out to ameliorate the negative effects of sodium chloride (NaCl) on canola plants through foliar application of SA. Two canola varieties Faisal (V1) and Super (V2) were assessed for their growth performance during exposure to high salinity i.e. 0 mM NaCl (control) and 200 mM NaCl. Three levels of SA (0, 10, and 20 mM) were applied through foliar spray. The experimental design used for this study was completely randomized design (CRD) with three replicates. The salt stress reduced the shoot and root fresh weights up to 50.3% and 47% respectively. In addition, foliar chlorophyll a and b contents decreased up to 61–65%. Meanwhile, SA treatment diminished the negative effects of salinity and enhanced the shoot fresh weight (49.5%), root dry weight (70%), chl. a (36%) and chl. b (67%). Plants treated with SA showed an increased levels of both enzymatic i.e. (superoxide dismutase (27%), peroxidase (16%) and catalase (34%)) and non-enzymatic antioxidants i.e. total soluble protein (20%), total soluble sugar (17%), total phenolic (22%) flavonoids (19%), anthocyanin (23%), and endogenous ascorbic acid (23%). Application of SA also increased the levels of osmolytes i.e. glycine betaine (31%) and total free proline (24%). Salinity increased the concentration of Na+ ions and concomitantly decreased the K+ and Ca2+ absorption in canola plants. Overall, the foliar treatments of SA were quite effective in reducing the negative effects of salinity. By comparing both varieties of canola, it was observed that variety V2 (Super) grew better than variety V1 (Faisal). Interestingly, 20 mM foliar application of SA proved to be effective in ameliorating the negative effects of high salinity in canola plants.
WRKY transcription factors modulate flowering time in four Arachis species: a bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Fang Xiao , Liu Lubin , Li Meiran , Song Hui , Zhou Yihui
Published: June 2024

Background

WRKY proteins are important transcription factors (TFs) in plants, involved in growth and development and responses to environmental changes. Although WRKY TFs have been studied at the genome level in Arachis genus, including oil crop and turfgrass, their regulatory networks in controlling flowering time remain unclear. The aim of this study was to predict the molecular mechanisms of WRKY TFs regulation flowering time in Arachis genus at the genome level using bioinformatics approaches.

Results

The flowering-time genes of Arachis genus were retrieved from the flowering-time gene database. The regulatory networks between WRKY TFs and downstream genes in Arachis genus were predicted using bioinformatics tools. The results showed that WRKY TFs were involved in aging, autonomous, circadian clock, hormone, photoperiod, sugar, temperature, and vernalization pathways to modulate flowering time in Arachis duranensis, Arachis ipaensis, Arachis monticola, and Arachis hypogaea cv. Tifrunner. The WRKY TF binding sites in homologous flowering-time genes exhibited asymmetric evolutionary pattern, indicating that the WRKY TFs interact with other transcription factors to modulate flowering time in the four Arachis species. Protein interaction network analysis showed that WRKY TFs interacted with FRUITFULL and APETALA2 to modulate flowering time in the four Arachis species. WRKY TFs implicated in regulating flowering time had low expression levels, whereas their interaction proteins had varying expression patterns in 22 tissues of A. hypogaea cv. Tifrunner. These results indicate that WRKY TFs exhibit antagonistic or synergistic interactions with the associated proteins.

Conclusions

This study reveals complex regulatory networks through which WRKY TFs modulate flowering time in the four Arachis species using bioinformatics approaches.
Determining the extent and frequency of on-site monitoring: a bayesian risk-based approach
Authors: Xie Longshen , Liu Lin , Chow Shein-Chung , Lu Hui
Published: June 2024

Background

On-site monitoring is a crucial component of quality control in clinical trials. However, many cast doubt on its cost-effectiveness due to various issues, such as a lack of monitoring focus that could assist in prioritizing limited resources during a site visit. Consequently, an increasing number of trial sponsors are implementing a hybrid monitoring strategy that combines on-site monitoring with centralised monitoring. One of the primary objectives of centralised monitoring, as stated in the clinical trial guidelines, is to guide and adjust the extent and frequency of on-site monitoring. Quality tolerance limits (QTLs) introduced in ICH E6(R2) and thresholds proposed by TransCelerate Biopharma are two existing approaches for achieving this objective at the trial- and site-levels, respectively. The funnel plot, as another threshold-based site-level method, overcomes the limitation of TransCelerate’s method by adjusting thresholds flexibly based on site sizes. Nonetheless, both methods do not transparently explain the reason for choosing the thresholds that they used or whether their choices are optimal in any certain sense. Additionally, related Bayesian monitoring methods are also lacking.

Methods

We propose a simple, transparent, and user-friendly Bayesian-based risk boundary for determining the extent and frequency of on-site monitoring both at the trial- and site-levels. We developed a four-step approach, including: 1) establishing risk levels for key risk indicators (KRIs) along with their corresponding monitoring actions and estimates; 2) calculating the optimal risk boundaries; 3) comparing the outcomes of KRIs against the optimal risk boundaries; and 4) providing recommendations based on the comparison results. Our method can be used to identify the optimal risk boundaries within an established risk level range and is applicable to continuous, discrete, and time-to-event endpoints.

Results

We evaluate the performance of the proposed risk boundaries via simulations that mimic various realistic clinical trial scenarios. The performance of the proposed risk boundaries is compared against the funnel plot using real clinical trial data. The results demonstrate the applicability and flexibility of the proposed method for clinical trial monitoring. Moreover, we identify key factors that affect the optimality and performance of the proposed risk boundaries, respectively.

Conclusion

Given the aforementioned advantages of the proposed risk boundaries, we expect that they will benefit the clinical trial community at large, in particular in the realm of risk-based monitoring.
Prevalence and associated factors of maternal birth trauma following vaginal delivery at University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, North-West Ethiopia, 2022
Authors: Addis Nigat Amsalu , Abraham Demelash , Getnet Mihret , Bishaw Alehegn , Mengistu Zelalem
Published: June 2024

Background

Maternal injury with any form of perineal trauma following vaginal delivery is very common which ranges globally from 16.2 to 90.4%. The frequency of Obstetric anal sphincter Injuries and the incidence of cervical laceration increases rapidly. However, in Ethiopia, there is limited evidence on the prevalence of maternal birth trauma and its determinant factors after vaginal delivery.

Objective

To assess the magnitude and associated factors of Maternal Birth Trauma after vaginal delivery at University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Gondar, North-West Ethiopia, 2022.

Methods

An Institution based cross-sectional study was conducted among mothers with singleton vaginal delivery at University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital from 9th May to 9th August 2022 among 424 study participants. Pre-tested semi-structured questioner was utilized. Epi-Data version 4.6 was used for data entry and exported to SPSS version 25 for data management and analysis. To identify the determinant factors, binary logistic regression model was fitted and variables with p-value < 0.2 were considered for the multivariable binary logistic regression analysis. In the multivariable binary logistic regression analysis, Variables with P-value < 0.05 were considered to have statistical significant association with the outcome variable. The Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) with 95% CI was reported to declare the statistical significance and strength of association between Maternal Birth Trauma and independent variables.

Results

A total of 424 mothers who delivered vaginally were included. The mean age of participants was 26.83 years (± 5.220 years). The proportion of birth trauma among mothers after vaginal delivery was47.4% (95%CI: 43.1, 51.7). Of different forms of perineal trauma, First degree tear in 42.8%, OASIs in 1.5% and Cervical laceration in 2.5% study participants. In the multivariable binary logistic regression analysis being primiparous (AOR = 3.00; 95%CI: 1.68, 5.38), Gestational age ≥ 39 weeks at delivery (AOR = 2.96; 95%CI: 1.57, 5.57), heavier birth weight (AOR = 12.3; 95%CI: 7.21, 40.1), bigger head circumference (AOR = 5.45; 95%CI: 2.62, 11.31), operative vaginal delivery (AOR = 6.59; 95%CI: 1.44, 30.03) and delivery without perineum and/or fetal head support (AOR = 6.30; 95%CI: 2.21, 17.94) were significantly associated with the presence of maternal birth trauma.

Conclusion and recommendation

Maternal birth trauma following vaginal delivery was relatively high in this study. Prim parity, gestational age beyond 39 weeks at delivery, heavier birth weight, bigger head circumference, operative vaginal delivery and delivery without perineum and/or fetal head supported were factors affecting perineal outcome. The Ministry of Health of Ethiopia should provide regular interventional training as to reduce maternal birth trauma.
Discrepancies in perceived family resilience between adolescents with chronic illness and parents: using response surface analysis to examine the relationship with adolescents’ psychological adjustment
Authors: Chen Meijia , Ren Liya , Jiang Hao , Wang Yuxin , Zhang Liping , Dong Chaoqun
Published: June 2024

Background

This study aimed to explore discrepancies in adolescents with chronic illness and their parents’ perceptions of family resilience, as well as the relationship between these differences and the psychological adjustment of adolescents with chronic illness.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted. A total of 264 dyads of parents (77.7% mothers, mean age 41.60 years, SD = 6.17) and adolescents (48.5% girls, mean age 12.68 years, SD = 2.11) with chronic illness were recruited through convenience sampling from three children’s hospitals in Wenzhou, Hangzhou, and Shanghai, China between June 2022 and May 2023. The Chinese version of the Family Resilience Scale and the Psychological Adjustment Scale, which are commonly used measures with good reliability and validity, were employed to assess family resilience and psychological adaption, respectively. The data were analyzed using polynomial regression and response surface analysis.

Results

Adolescents with chronic illness reported higher family resilience than their parents (t=-2.80, p < 0.05). The correlations between family resilience and adolescents’ psychological adjustment reported by the adolescents (r = 0.45–0.48) were higher than parents (r = 0.18–0.23). In the line of congruence, there were positive linear (a1 = 1.09–1.60, p < 0.001) and curvilinear (a2=-1.38∼-0.72, p < 0.05) associations between convergent family resilience and adolescents’ psychological adjustment. In the line of incongruence, when adolescents reported lower family resilience than parents, adolescents had a lower level of psychological adjustment (a3=-1.02∼-0.45, p < 0.05). Adolescents’ sociability decreased when the perceived family resilience of parent-adolescent dyads converged (a4 = 1.36, p < 0.01).

Conclusion

The findings highlighted the importance of considering the discrepancies and congruence of family resilience in the parent-child dyads when developing interventions to improve the psychological adjustment of adolescents with chronic illness. Interventions aimed at strengthening family communication to foster the convergence of perceptions of family resilience in parent-adolescent dyads were warranted.
Integrated surveillance systems for antibiotic resistance in a One Health context: a scoping review
Authors: Delpy Léo , Astbury Chloe Clifford , Aenishaenslin Cécile , Ruckert Arne , Penney Tarra L. , Wiktorowicz Mary , Ciss Mamadou , Benko Ria , Bordier Marion
Published: June 2024

Background

Antibiotic resistance (ABR) has emerged as a major threat to health. Properly informed decisions to mitigate this threat require surveillance systems that integrate information on resistant bacteria and antibiotic use in humans, animals, and the environment, in line with the One Health concept. Despite a strong call for the implementation of such integrated surveillance systems, we still lack a comprehensive overview of existing organizational models for integrated surveillance of ABR. To address this gap, we conducted a scoping review to characterize existing integrated surveillance systems for ABR.

Methods

The literature review was conducted using the PRISMA guidelines. The selected integrated surveillance systems were assessed according to 39 variables related to their organization and functioning, the socio-economic and political characteristics of their implementation context, and the levels of integration reached, together with their related outcomes. We conducted two distinct, complementary analyses on the data extracted: a descriptive analysis to summarize the characteristics of the integrated surveillance systems, and a multiple-correspondence analysis (MCA) followed by a hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) to identify potential typology for surveillance systems.

Results

The literature search identified a total of 1330 records. After the screening phase, 59 references were kept from which 14 integrated surveillance systems were identified. They all operate in high-income countries and vary in terms of integration, both at informational and structural levels. The different systems combine information from a wide range of populations and commodities -in the human, animal and environmental domains, collection points, drug-bacterium pairs, and rely on various diagnostic and surveillance strategies. A variable level of collaboration was found for the governance and/or operation of the surveillance activities. The outcomes of integration are poorly described and evidenced. The 14 surveillance systems can be grouped into four distinct clusters, characterized by integration level in the two dimensions. The level of resources and regulatory framework in place appeared to play a major role in the establishment and organization of integrated surveillance.

Conclusions

This study suggests that operationalization of integrated surveillance for ABR is still not well established at a global scale, especially in low and middle-income countries and that the surveillance scope is not broad enough to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the complex dynamics of ABR to appropriately inform mitigation measures. Further studies are needed to better characterize the various integration models for surveillance with regard to their implementation context and evaluate the outcome of these models.
Association between metabolic score of visceral fat and carotid atherosclerosis in Chinese health screening population: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Qian Jiayu , Huang Guoqing , Mao Yushan
Published: June 2024

Background

The metabolic score for visceral fat (METS-VF) quantifies the cumulative burden of visceral and intra-abdominal adipose tissues. However, the relationship between the METS-VF and carotid atherosclerosis (CAS) has not been extensively explored. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the association between the METS-VF and CAS.

Methods

This cross-sectional study enrolled 7089 Chinese adults who underwent physical examinations at the Zhenhai Lianhua Hospital, Zhejiang, China, in 2020. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to explore the linear relationship between METS-VF and CAS. Generalised additive models (GAM) were employed to evaluate potential nonlinear associations. The inflection points of METS-VF were determined using segmented logistic regression analysis optimised for maximum likelihood ratios and recursive algorithms.

Results

Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed a positive correlation between METS-VF and CAS (odds ratio [OR]: 1.824, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.753–1.899; P < 0.001). The GAM analysis confirmed a nonlinear association between them [effective degrees of freedom: 4.803, χ2: 876.7, P < 0.001], with an inflection point at a METS-VF of 8.09 (P < 0.001 for log-likelihood ratio test). Below this inflection point, METS-VF exhibited a significant positive association with CAS risk (OR: 1.874, 95% CI: 1.796–1.954; P < 0.001). Conversely, no significant association was observed when METS-VF ≥ 8.09 (OR: 0.998, 95% CI: 0.786–1.268; P = 0.989).

Conclusions

METS-VF and CAS demonstrated a positive non-linear correlation, with the curve indicating a saturation effect at METS-VF = 8.09.
Evaluation of the resection plane three-dimensional positional accuracy using a resection guide directional guidance slot; a randomized clinical trial
Authors: El-Mahallawy Yehia , Dessoky Noha Y. , Abdelrahman Hams H. , Al-Mahalawy Haytham
Published: June 2024

Aim

The study was performed to compare the mandibular resection guide with a directional guidance slot with the conventional guide regarding three-dimensional positional accuracy.

Materials and methods

Twenty-six patients with lateral segmental mandibular defects were selected, and randomly allocated into two groups. All defects were managed with preoperative virtual surgical planning. Resection in the test group was conducted using a resection guide with a directional guidance slot, while a conventional resection guide design was utilized in the control group. The linear and angular deviation of the osteotomy planes was analyzed for both groups, along with the accuracy of the insertion of the reconstruction bone block in the resected defect. Data were documented, absolute deviation was calculated, statistical analysis was performed and significance was set at the 5% level.

Results

The cases conducted with a directional guidance templet reported a statistically significant difference when compared to the conventional edge-cutting guide regarding the linear and angular spatial osteotomy plane position (P < 0.001). The defect span analysis reported excellent levels of agreement in both groups (ICC = 1.00, ICC = 0.995), however, the difference between the groups was statistically significant (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The study demonstrated the enhanced positional accuracy of the resection plane and reconstruction block placement when a directional slot is incorporated in the computer-generated resection guide.
Uptake of cervical cancer screening and associated factors among HIV positive women attending adult art clinic at public hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2022
Authors: Zegeye Fenta Reta , Legasu Temesgen Dessalegne , Bayou Fekade Demeke , Ali Mohammed Ahmed
Published: June 2024

Background

Cervical cancer is the second most common malignancy in Ethiopia and first in some African countries. It is six times more likely to occur in positive cases of the human immunodeficiency virus than in the general population. If diagnosed and treated early enough, cervical cancer is both treatable and preventable. However, among Ethiopian women who test positive for HIV, the uptake of cervical cancer screening is low. Its determinant factors were not well studied in the study area. Hence, this study was aimed at filling this information gap.

Objective

To assess uptake of cervical cancer screening services and associated factors among HIV-positive women attending an adult antiretroviral treatment clinic at public hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, June 1–30, 2022.

Methods

A cross-sectional investigation was carried out in a hospital. 407 participants in all were chosen using the systematic sampling technique. A pretested interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect the data from respondents. The data were entered into Epi data version 4.6 and exported to SPSS version 25 for analysis. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis was employed. Adjusted odds ratio with its 95% confidence interval and p value < 0.05 were used to estimate the strength and significance of the association.

Result

Among a total of 407 respondents, 238 (58.5%), 95% CI (53.5–63.3), HIV-positive women were screened at least once in the last five years. In multivariable analysis, age > 45 years old (AOR = 0.18, 95% CI: 0.053–0.644), number of children (3 children) (AOR = 0.19, 95% CI:0.036-0.979), perception of being susceptible to cervical cancer (AOR = 6.39, 95% CI: 1.79–22.74), knowledge of cervical cancer and its screening (AOR = 19.34, 95% CI: 7.87–47.75), and positive attitude towards cervical cancer screening (AOR = 8.06, 95% CI:3.62–17.91) were significantly associated factors with the uptake of cervical cancer screening.

Conclusion and recommendation

in this study, Age > 45 years, having less than three children, feeling susceptible, knowing about cervical cancer and screening, and having a positive attitude toward cervical cancer screening were significant factor of uptake of cervical cancer screening service. There is a need to strengthen the policy and health education on safe sexual practices and healthy lifestyles through information dissemination and communication to scale up screening service utilization.
Gestational weight gain and its determinants among pregnant women in Gurage zone, Central Ethiopia: a cohort study
Authors: Beyene Girma Alemayehu , Yunus Mukrem Abdulwehab , Deribew Aberash Beyene , Kasahun Abebaw Wasie
Published: June 2024

Background

The nutritional status of the mothers before pregnancy and the weights gained during pregnancy are very crucial factors affecting the pregnancy outcomes and health of the infants. This study aimed to assess early pregnancy weight, determine the magnitude of gestational weight gain, and investigate the factors affecting gestational weight gain among pregnant women in the Gurage zone, 2022.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted among pregnant women who started antenatal care follow-up before the 16th week of gestation in the selected hospitals and health centers of the Gurage zone, Ethiopia. The gestational weight gain was obtained by subtracting the early pregnancy weight from the last pregnancy weight and categorizing based on the Institute of Medicine (IOM) recommendation.

Results

The early pregnancy weight status of the women at enrollment indicates that 10% of them were underweight and 83% of them had normal weight. On average, the study participants gained 13.3 kgs of weight with [95% CI: 13.0, 13.6]. More than half (56%) of them gained adequate weight, a quarter (26%) of them gained inadequate weight, and 18% of them gained excess weight during pregnancy compared to the IOM recommendation. Maternal age, occupational status, and early pregnancy weight status were found to have a statistically significant association with the gestational weight gained.

Conclusion

Almost half (44%) of the pregnant women gained either inadequate or excess weight during pregnancy. Promoting gestational weight gain within recommended guidelines should be emphasized for younger, employed women and those who are either underweight or overweight.
Caregiving information needs of family caregivers of adolescent patients with suicide attempts: a qualitative study in China
Authors: Wang Xiaoning , Miu Qunfang , Wang Jiannv , Huang Xiaoyu , Xie Wenru
Published: June 2024

Background

In the cultural milieu of China, family caregivers assume a pivotal role in the post-adolescent suicide attempt recovery journey. Nevertheless, they frequently encounter a dearth of requisite knowledge and information pertaining to the appropriate caregiving protocols for these adolescents. Notwithstanding, scholarly investigation into the informational requisites of this demographic concerning caregiving remains significantly constrained.

Methods

Between September and December 2023, a phenomenological approach was applied in qualitative research. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with 15 family caregivers of adolescents who had experienced suicide attempts. The amassed data underwent systematic organization and analysis through the utilization of the Colaizzi method.

Results

Four primary themes were identified: (1) negative emotional encounters; (2) requirements for addressing dilemmas; (3) addressing the needs of the unknown; and (4) insufficient access to support.

Conclusions

Family caregivers experience complex negative emotions upon learning about a teenager’s suicide attempt. Throughout the caregiving process, they face numerous challenges, with apparent lack of external support, leading to an increased urgent need for caregiving information. Healthcare professionals, especially nurses, should actively identify and respond to the informational needs of family caregivers when caring for adolescents who have attempted suicide. This includes providing education on various coping mechanisms and support strategies, as well as assisting them in better understanding how to effectively manage the stress and challenges of caregiving. By doing so, healthcare professionals can help alleviate the psychological and emotional burden on family caregivers, thereby enhancing their caregiving abilities and overall well-being.
Systematic single-cell analysis reveals dynamic control of transposable element activity orchestrating the endothelial-to-hematopoietic transition
Authors: Feng Cong , Tie Ruxiu , Xin Saige , Chen Yuhao , Li Sida , Chen Yifan , Hu Xiaotian , Zhou Yincong , Liu Yongjing , Hu Yueming , Hu Yanshi , Pan Hang , Wu Zexu , Chao Haoyu , Zhang Shilong , Ni Qingyang , Huang Jinyan , Luo Wenda , Huang He , Chen Ming
Published: June 2024

Background

The endothelial-to-hematopoietic transition (EHT) process during definitive hematopoiesis is highly conserved in vertebrates. Stage-specific expression of transposable elements (TEs) has been detected during zebrafish EHT and may promote hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) formation by activating inflammatory signaling. However, little is known about how TEs contribute to the EHT process in human and mouse.

Results

We reconstructed the single-cell EHT trajectories of human and mouse and resolved the dynamic expression patterns of TEs during EHT. Most TEs presented a transient co-upregulation pattern along the conserved EHT trajectories, coinciding with the temporal relaxation of epigenetic silencing systems. TE products can be sensed by multiple pattern recognition receptors, triggering inflammatory signaling to facilitate HSC emergence. Interestingly, we observed that hypoxia-related signals were enriched in cells with higher TE expression. Furthermore, we constructed the hematopoietic cis-regulatory network of accessible TEs and identified potential TE-derived enhancers that may boost the expression of specific EHT marker genes.

Conclusions

Our study provides a systematic vision of how TEs are dynamically controlled to promote the hematopoietic fate decisions through transcriptional and cis-regulatory networks, and pre-train the immunity of nascent HSCs.
The double whammy of ER-retention and dominant-negative effects in numerous autosomal dominant diseases: significance in disease mechanisms and therapy
Authors: Gariballa Nesrin , Mohamed Feda , Badawi Sally , Ali Bassam R.
Published: June 2024

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) employs stringent quality control mechanisms to ensure the integrity of protein folding, allowing only properly folded, processed and assembled proteins to exit the ER and reach their functional destinations. Mutant proteins unable to attain their correct tertiary conformation or form complexes with their partners are retained in the ER and subsequently degraded through ER-associated protein degradation (ERAD) and associated mechanisms. ER retention contributes to a spectrum of monogenic diseases with diverse modes of inheritance and molecular mechanisms. In autosomal dominant diseases, when mutant proteins get retained in the ER, they can interact with their wild-type counterparts. This interaction may lead to the formation of mixed dimers or aberrant complexes, disrupting their normal trafficking and function in a dominant-negative manner. The combination of ER retention and dominant-negative effects has been frequently documented to cause a significant loss of functional proteins, thereby exacerbating disease severity. This review aims to examine existing literature and provide insights into the impact of dominant-negative effects exerted by mutant proteins retained in the ER in a range of autosomal dominant diseases including skeletal and connective tissue disorders, vascular disorders, neurological disorders, eye disorders and serpinopathies. Most crucially, we aim to emphasize the importance of this area of research, offering substantial potential for understanding the factors influencing phenotypic variability associated with genetic variants. Furthermore, we highlight current and prospective therapeutic approaches targeted at ameliorating the effects of mutations exhibiting dominant-negative effects. These approaches encompass experimental studies exploring treatments and their translation into clinical practice.
Tissue factor regulates autophagy in pulmonary artery endothelial cells from chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension rats via the p38 MAPK-FoxO1 pathway
Authors: Wu Dawen , Lin Yi , Yang Minxia , Li Hongli , Wang Wenfeng , Wu Qiuxia , Chen Maohe , Shao Nan , Deng Chaosheng
Published: June 2024

Aims

To detect the expression of autophagy components, p38 MAPK (p38) and phosphorylated forkhead box transcription factor O-1 (pFoxO1) in pulmonary vascular endothelial cells of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) rats and to investigate the possible mechanism through which tissue factor (TF) regulates autophagy.

Methods

Pulmonary artery endothelial cells (PAECs) were isolated from CTEPH (CTEPH group) and healthy rats (control group (ctrl group)) which were cocultured with TF at different time points including 12 h, 24 h, 48 h and doses including 0 nM,10 nM, 100 nM, 1µM, 10µM, 100µM and cocultured with TFPI at 48 h including 0 nM, 2.5 nM, 5 nM. The expression of forkhead box transcription factor O-1 (FoxO1), pFoxO1, p38, Beclin-1 and LC3B in PAECs was measured. Coimmunoprecipitation (co-IP) assays were used to detect the interaction between FoxO1 and LC3.

Results

The protein expression of p-FoxO1/FoxO1 was significantly lower in the CTEPH groups (cocultured with TF from 0 nM to 100 µM) than in the ctrl group at 12 h, 24 h, and 48 h (P < 0.05) and was significantly lower in the CTEPH groups (cocultured with TFPI from 0 nM to 5 nM) than in the ctrl group at 48 h (P < 0.05). The protein expression of p38 in the CTEPH groups treated with 0 nM, 10 nM, 100 nM or 1 µM TF for 48 h significantly increased than ctrl groups (P < 0.05) and was significantly increased in the CTEPH groups (cocultured with TFPI concentration from 0 nM to 5 nM) than in the ctrl group at 48 h (P < 0.05). The protein expression of Beclin1 at the same concentration (cocultured with TF from 0 nM to 100 µM) was significantly lower in the CTEPH groups than ctrl groups after 24 h and 48 h (P < 0.05) and was significantly decreased in the CTEPH groups (cocultured with TFPI concentration from 2.5 nM to 5 nM) than in the ctrl group at 48 h (P < 0.05). The protein expression of LC3-II/LC3-I at the same concentration (cocultured with TF 0 nM, 1 µM, 10 µM, and 100 µM) was significantly lower in the CTEPH than in the ctrl groups after 12 h (P < 0.05) and was significantly lower in the CTEPH groups (cocultured with TFPI concentration from 0 nM to 5 nM) than in the ctrl group at 48 h (P < 0.05). There were close interactions between FoxO1 and LC3 in the control and CTEPH groups at different doses and time points.

Conclusion

The autophagic activity of PAECs from CTEPH rats was disrupted. TF, FoxO1 and p38 MAPK play key roles in the autophagic activity of PAECs. TF may regulate autophagic activity through the p38 MAPK-FoxO1 pathway.
NFIC mediates m6A mRNA methylation to orchestrate transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation to represses malignant phenotype of non-small cell lung cancer cells
Authors: Shi Kesong , Chen Yani , Liu Ruihua , Fu Xinyao , Guo Hua , Gao Tian , Wang Shu , Dou Le , Wang Jiemin , Wu Yuan , Yu Jiale , Yu Haiquan
Published: June 2024

Background

Multiple genetic and epigenetic regulatory mechanisms are crucial in the development and tumorigenesis process. Transcriptional regulation often involves intricate relationships and networks with post-transcriptional regulatory molecules, impacting the spatial and temporal expression of genes. However, the synergistic relationship between transcription factors and N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification in regulating gene expression, as well as their influence on the mechanisms underlying the occurrence and progression of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), requires further investigation. The present study aimed to investigate the synergistic relationship between transcription factors and m6A modification on NSCLC.

Methods

The transcription factor NFIC and its potential genes was screened by analyzing publicly available datasets (ATAC-seq, DNase-seq, and RNA-seq). The association of NFIC and its potential target genes were validated through ChIP-qPCR and dual-luciferase reporter assays. Additionally, the roles of NFIC and its potential genes in NSCLC were detected in vitro and in vivo through silencing and overexpression assays.

Results

Based on multi-omics data, the transcription factor NFIC was identified as a potential tumor suppressor of NSCLC. NFIC was significantly downregulated in both NSCLC tissues and cells, and when NFIC was overexpressed, the malignant phenotype and total m6A content of NSCLC cells was suppressed, while the PI3K/AKT pathway was inactivated. Additionally, we discovered that NFIC inhibits the expression of METTL3 by directly binding to its promoter region, and METTL3 regulates the expression of KAT2A, a histone acetyltransferase, by methylating the m6A site in the 3’UTR of KAT2A mRNA in NSCLC cells. Intriguingly, NFIC was also found to negatively regulate the expression of KAT2A by directly binding to its promoter region.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrated that NFIC suppresses the malignant phenotype of NSCLC cells by regulating gene expression at both the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. A deeper comprehension of the genetic and epigenetic regulatory mechanisms in tumorigenesis would be beneficial for the development of personalized treatment strategies.
Unveiling the therapeutic promise: exploring Lysophosphatidic Acid (LPA) signaling in malignant bone tumors for novel cancer treatments
Authors: Qi Yichen , Wang Yukai , Yuan Jinping , Xu Yufei , Pan Haili
Published: June 2024

Malignant bone tumors, including primary bone cancer and metastatic bone tumors, are a significant clinical challenge due to their high frequency of presentation, poor prognosis and lack of effective treatments and therapies. Bone tumors are often accompanied by skeletal complications such as bone destruction and cancer-induced bone pain. However, the mechanisms involved in bone cancer progression, bone metastasis and skeletal complications remain unclear. Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), an intercellular lipid signaling molecule that exerts a wide range of biological effects mainly through specifically binding to LPA receptors (LPARs), has been found to be present at high levels in the ascites of bone tumor patients. Numerous studies have suggested that LPA plays a role in primary malignant bone tumors, bone metastasis, and skeletal complications. In this review, we summarize the role of LPA signaling in primary bone cancer, bone metastasis and skeletal complications. Modulating LPA signaling may represent a novel avenue for future therapeutic treatments for bone cancer, potentially improving patient prognosis and quality of life.