bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advanced drug delivery and therapeutic strategies for tuberculosis treatment
Authors: Nair Ayushi , Greeny Alosh , Nandan Amritasree , Sah Ranjay Kumar , Jose Anju , Dyawanapelly Sathish , Junnuthula Vijayabhaskarreddy , K. V. Athira , Sadanandan Prashant
Published: November 2023

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant global health challenge, necessitating innovative approaches for effective treatment. Conventional TB therapy encounters several limitations, including extended treatment duration, drug resistance, patient noncompliance, poor bioavailability, and suboptimal targeting. Advanced drug delivery strategies have emerged as a promising approach to address these challenges. They have the potential to enhance therapeutic outcomes and improve TB patient compliance by providing benefits such as multiple drug encapsulation, sustained release, targeted delivery, reduced dosing frequency, and minimal side effects. This review examines the current landscape of drug delivery strategies for effective TB management, specifically highlighting lipid nanoparticles, polymer nanoparticles, inorganic nanoparticles, emulsion-based systems, carbon nanotubes, graphene, and hydrogels as promising approaches. Furthermore, emerging therapeutic strategies like targeted therapy, long-acting therapeutics, extrapulmonary therapy, phototherapy, and immunotherapy are emphasized. The review also discusses the future trajectory and challenges of developing drug delivery systems for TB. In conclusion, nanomedicine has made substantial progress in addressing the challenges posed by conventional TB drugs. Moreover, by harnessing the unique targeting abilities, extended duration of action, and specificity of advanced therapeutics, innovative solutions are offered that have the potential to revolutionize TB therapy, thereby enhancing treatment outcomes and patient compliance.

Graphical Abstract
Inhibition of USP7 upregulates USP22 and activates its downstream cancer-related signaling pathways in human cancer cells
Authors: Zhang Keqiang , Sun Ting , Li Wendong , Guo Yuming , Li Aimin , Hsieh Marcus , Wang Jinghan , Wu Jun , Arvanitis Leonidas , Raz Dan J.
Published: November 2023

Deubiquitinases (DUBs) play important roles in various human cancers and targeting DUBs is considered as a novel anticancer therapeutic strategy. Overexpression of ubiquitin specific protease 7 and 22 (USP7 and USP22) are associated with malignancy, therapy resistance, and poor prognosis in many cancers. Although both DUBs are involved in the regulation of similar genes and signaling pathways, such as histone H2B monoubiquitination (H2Bub1), c-Myc, FOXP3, and p53, the interdependence of USP22 and USP7 expression has never been described. In the study, we found that targeting USP7 via either siRNA-mediated knockdown or pharmaceutical inhibitors dramatically upregulates USP22 in cancer cells. Mechanistically, the elevated USP22 occurs through a transcriptional pathway, possibly due to desuppression of the transcriptional activity of SP1 via promoting its degradation upon USP7 inhibition. Importantly, increased USP22 expression leads to significant activation of downstream signal pathways including H2Bub1 and c-Myc, which may potentially enhance cancer malignancy and counteract the anticancer efficacy of USP7 inhibition. Importantly, targeting USP7 further suppresses the in vitro proliferation of USP22-knockout (USP22-Ko) A549 and H1299 lung cancer cells and induces a stronger activation of p53 tumor suppressor signaling pathway. In addition, USP22-Ko cancer cells are more sensitive to a combination of cisplatin and USP7 inhibitor. USP7 inhibitor treatment further suppresses in vivo angiogenesis and tumor growth and induced more apoptosis in USP22-Ko cancer xenografts. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that USP7 inhibition can dramatically upregulate USP22 in cancer cells; and targeting USP7 and USP22 may represent a more effective approach for targeted cancer therapy, which warrants further study.
IRE1-mediated degradation of pre-miR-301a promotes apoptosis through upregulation of GADD45A
Authors: Gebert Magdalena , Bartoszewska Sylwia , Opalinski Lukasz , Collawn James F. , Bartoszewski Rafał
Published: November 2023

The unfolded protein response is a survival signaling pathway that is induced during various types of ER stress. Here, we determine IRE1’s role in miRNA regulation during ER stress. During induction of ER stress in human bronchial epithelial cells, we utilized next generation sequencing to demonstrate that pre-miR-301a and pre-miR-106b were significantly increased in the presence of an IRE1 inhibitor. Conversely, using nuclear-cytosolic fractionation on ER stressed cells, we found that these pre-miRNAs were decreased in the nuclear fractions without the IRE1 inhibitor. We also found that miR-301a-3p targets the proapoptotic UPR factor growth arrest and DNA-damage-inducible alpha (GADD45A). Inhibiting miR-301a-3p levels or blocking its predicted miRNA binding site in GADD45A’s 3’ UTR with a target protector increased GADD45A mRNA expression. Furthermore, an elevation of XBP1s expression had no effect on GADD45A mRNA expression. We also demonstrate that the introduction of a target protector for the miR-301a-3p binding site in GADD45A mRNA during ER stress promoted cell death in the airway epithelial cells. In summary, these results indicate that IRE1’s endonuclease activity is a two-edged sword that can splice XBP1 mRNA to stabilize survival or degrade pre-miR-301a to elevate GADD45A mRNA expression to lead to apoptosis.
Repeated sleep deprivation decreases the flux into hexosamine biosynthetic pathway/O-GlcNAc cycling and aggravates Alzheimer’s disease neuropathology in adult zebrafish
Authors: Park Jiwon , Kim Dong Yeol , Hwang Geum-Sook , Han Inn-Oc
Published: November 2023

This study investigated chronic and repeated sleep deprivation (RSD)-induced neuronal changes in hexosamine biosynthetic pathway/O-linked N-acetylglucosamine (HBP/O-GlcNAc) cycling of glucose metabolism and further explored the role of altered O-GlcNAc cycling in promoting neurodegeneration using an adult zebrafish model. RSD-triggered degenerative changes in the brain led to impairment of memory, neuroinflammation and amyloid beta (Aβ) accumulation. Metabolite profiling of RSD zebrafish brain revealed a significant decrease in glucose, indicating a potential association between RSD-induced neurodegeneration and dysregulated glucose metabolism. While RSD had no impact on overall O-GlcNAcylation levels in the hippocampus region, changes were observed in two O-GlcNAcylation-regulating enzymes, specifically, a decrease in O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT) and an increase in O-GlcNAcase (OGA). Glucosamine (GlcN) treatment induced an increase in O-GlcNAcylation and recovery of the OGT level that was decreased in the RSD group. In addition, GlcN reversed cognitive impairment by RSD. GlcN reduced neuroinflammation and attenuated Aβ accumulation induced by RSD. Repeated treatment of zebrafish with diazo-5-oxo-l-norleucine (DON), an inhibitor of HBP metabolism, resulted in cognitive dysfunction, neuroinflammation and Aβ accumulation, similar to the effects of RSD. The pathological changes induced by DON were restored to normal upon treatment with GlcN. Both the SD and DON-treated groups exhibited a common decrease in glutamate and γ-aminobutyric acid compared to the control group. Overexpression of OGT in zebrafish brain rescued RSD-induced neuronal dysfunction and neurodegeneration. RSD induced a decrease in O-GlcNAcylation of amyloid precursor protein and increase in β-secretase activity, which were reversed by GlcN treatment. Based on the collective findings, we propose that dysregulation of HBP and O-GlcNAc cycling in brain plays a crucial role in RSD-mediated progression of neurodegeneration and Alzheimer’s disease pathogenesis. Targeting of this pathway may, therefore, offer an effective regulatory approach for treatment of sleep-associated neurodegenerative disorders.
The power of connected clinical teams: from loneliness to belonging
Authors: Hoare Jacqueline
Published: November 2023

Background

We need to preserve the lessons of the COVID-19 pandemic in caring for the mental health of clinicians, of shared experiences, interdependence, team cohesion and vulnerability, among others. We need reform in the way that clinicians are cared for, and a resistance to the idea of a post-pandemic ‘return to normal’.

Main text

To build connected and optimally functioning clinical teams, we need to create an inclusive culture in which difficult conversations and caring are the expectation. If we are to be better at solving problems and better at serving our patients, we should be vigilant about creating a psychologically safe medical culture in which colleagues feel safe, seen, heard, and respected.

Conclusion

Going forward, each of us, regardless of seniority, needs to take responsibility for this culture change. We need to create and participate in weekly collegial peer support sessions that feel nurturing and safe, that allow us to reveal parts of ourselves, to be vulnerable with each other in a way that reduces loneliness, and encourages and maintains social connections and a sense of belonging within clinical teams, improves clinician well-being and reduces the risk of burnout.

“Care is a practice of informed responsive actions on behalf of the one cared for and authentically aimed toward their growth and flourishing.”Care Ethics in the Age of Precarity; Maurice Hamington and Michael Flower.
Thinner femoral cortical thickness in patients with destructive rheumatoid arthritis of the knee
Authors: Kakutani Rika , Kondo Naoki , Yamako Go , Mochizuki Tomoharu , Someya Keiichiro , Kawashima Hiroyuki
Published: November 2023

Background

The examination of femoral cortical bone thickness in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has been notably limited in prior research. We aimed to compare femoral cortical thickness in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and healthy controls and to investigate the association between femoral cortical thickness and clinical parameters within the RA group.

Methods

Forty-four patients (58 limbs) with RA who underwent total knee arthroplasty were enrolled. Preoperative computed tomography images of the lower limbs were analyzed. The femoral cortex was divided into the proximal, central, and distal diaphysis regions and further into the anterior, posterior, medial, and lateral regions. The divisions were measured using Stradwin® software and standardized by femoral length. Femoral cortical thickness was compared between RA and healthy control (n = 25) groups. Correlation analyses between standardized cortical thickness and disease parameters were performed in the RA group.

Results

The RA group had significantly lower standardized femoral cortical thickness at the anterior and medial distal diaphysis than healthy controls. Standardized proximal lateral and central lateral in the RA group were significantly larger than those in the healthy control groups. Standardized femoral cortical thickness was significantly correlated with bone mineral density (BMD) in 11 areas, except the posterior central diaphysis, and with body mass index in 8 areas, except the central posterior, distal lateral, distal anterior, and distal medial diaphysis.

Conclusions

Femoral cortical thinning was noted in patients with RA complicated with destructive knee, particularly at the anterior and medial distal diaphysis. Femoral cortical thickness was significantly correlated with BMD and body mass index (BMI); thus, patients with RA and low BMD and BMI should be cared for to prevent fragility fractures.
Case report: hunting the hidden: surgical treatment of chronic silent thrombus in the left ventricle in a young alcoholic patient with myocardial bridging
Authors: He Fengpu , Jiao Yiping , Jiang Lijun
Published: November 2023

Background

A silent left ventricular thrombus is dangerous. The current standard anticoagulation therapy was ineffective in our case or similar, and the outcome was poor.

Case presentation

A 33-year-old man with a silent left ventricular thrombus was detected incidentally by transthoracic echocardiography. After admission, anti-coagulation with low-molecular-weight heparin therapy was carried out. The CAG revealed 70% systolic stenosis in the middle of the right coronary artery along with myocardial bridging. Unfortunately, an acute left temporal embolism emerged 5 days later, then the patient was transferred to the neurology department for further treatment. One month later, the patient underwent left ventricular thrombectomy, ventricular aneurysm resection, and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and was discharged uneventfully after surgery.

Conclusions

Surgical treatment should be a priority for patients with giant or hypermobile left ventricular thrombus or recurrent systemic emboli.
Adenoid cystic carcinoma of the thymus gland
Authors: Shatila Mohamed , Hemead Hanan , Murukesh Nishanth , Taniere Philippe , Russell Caroline , Menon Ashvini , Patel Akshay J.
Published: November 2023

Background

Thymic carcinomas are rare and aggressive tumours. They constitute a heterogeneous group of tumours with various histological patterns and subtypes resembling epithelial tumours arising from other organs.

Case presentation.

We hereby represent a case of primary thymic carcinoma with adenoid cystic carcinoma-like features (TCACC) which is an extremely rare variant of thymic adenocarcinoma. To date and to the best of our knowledge, there are nine reported cases in literature and ours is the tenth. Our case was treated surgically but the implementation of adjuvant chemoradiotherapy has been reported in few of the published cases.

Conclusions

TCACC constitutes a rare entity of thymic adenocarcinoma with limited available literature. The current data is derived from few case reports and case series. The histological overlap of these tumours and primary ACC of salivary glands poses a diagnostic challenge. Radiological investigations, immunohistochemical phenotyping and genetic analysis are crucial in establishing the diagnosis.
A single-center observational study on long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes in children with tuberous sclerosis complex
Authors: Mammadova D. , Vecko J. , Hofmann M. , Schüssler S. C. , Deiters L. , Canda A. , Wieland A. K. , Gollwitzer S. , Hamer H. , Trollmann Regina
Published: November 2023

Background

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a rare multisystem disorder caused by mutations in the TSC1 or TSC2 gene. More than 90% of patients with TSC develop neurological and/or neuropsychiatric manifestations. The aim of the present study was to determine the developmental and cognitive long-term outcomes of pediatric TSC patients.

Methods

This cross-sectional, monocenter study included pediatric TSC patients who received multidisciplinary long-term care with a last visit between 2005 and 2019. Neurological manifestations and cognitive development (BSID, K-ABC) were analyzed in relation to age and type of mutation.

Results

Thirty-five patients aged 13.5 ± 7.8 years were included in the study. Diagnosis was confirmed genetically in 65.7% of patients (TSC1, 26.1%; TSC2, 65.2%; NMI, 8.7%). Mean age at diagnosis was 1.3 ± 3.5 years; 74.3% of the patients had been diagnosed within the first year of life due to seizures (62.9%) or/and cardiac rhabdomyomas (28.6%). The most common TSC manifestations included structural brain lesions (cortical tubers, 91.4%; subependymal nodules, 82.9%), epilepsy (85.7%), and cardiac rhabdomyomas (62.9%). Mean age at seizure onset was 1.5 ± 2.3 years, with onset in 80.0% of patients within the first two years of life. Infantile spasms, which were the first seizure type in 23.3% of the patients, developed earlier (0.6 ± 0.4 years) than focal seizures (1.8 ± 2.5 years). Refractory epilepsy was present in 21 (70.0%) patients, mild or severe intellectual impairment in 66.6%, and autism spectrum disorders in 11.4%. Severe cognitive impairment (33.3%) was significantly associated with epilepsy type and age at seizure onset (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The results emphasized the phenotypic variability of pediatric-onset TSC and the high rate of neurological and neuropsychiatric morbidity. Early-onset refractory epilepsy was associated with impaired cognitive development. Children of all ages with TSC require multidisciplinary long-term care and individual early-intervention programs.
Peptide-based approaches to directly target alpha-synuclein in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Allen Scott G. , Meade Richard M. , White Stenner Lucy L. , Mason Jody M.
Published: November 2023

Peptides and their mimetics are increasingly recognised as drug-like molecules, particularly for intracellular protein-protein interactions too large for inhibition by small molecules, and inaccessible to larger biologics. In the past two decades, evidence associating the misfolding and aggregation of alpha-synuclein strongly implicates this protein in disease onset and progression of Parkinson’s disease and related synucleinopathies. The subsequent formation of toxic, intracellular, Lewy body deposits, in which alpha-synuclein is a major component, is a key diagnostic hallmark of the disease. To reach their therapeutic site of action, peptides must both cross the blood-brain barrier and enter dopaminergic neurons to prevent the formation of these intracellular inclusions. In this review, we describe and summarise the current efforts made in the development of peptides and their mimetics to directly engage with alpha-synuclein with the intention of modulating aggregation, and importantly, toxicity. This is a rapidly expanding field with great socioeconomic impact; these molecules harbour significant promise as therapeutics, or as early biomarkers during prodromal disease stages, or both. As these are age-dependent conditions, an increasing global life expectancy means disease prevalence is rising. No current treatments exist to either prevent or slow disease progression. It is therefore crucial that drugs are developed for these conditions before health care and social care capacities become overrun.
Outcomes of patients with secondary central nervous system lymphoma following CAR T-cell therapy: a multicenter cohort study
Authors: Epperla Narendranath , Feng Lei , Shah Nirav N. , Fitzgerald Lindsey , Shah Harsh , Stephens Deborah M. , Lee Catherine J. , Ollila Thomas , Shouse Geoffrey , Danilov Alexey V. , David Kevin A. , Torka Pallawi , Hashmi Hamza , Hess Brian , Barta Stefan K. , Romancik Jason T. , Cohen Jonathon B. , Annunzio Kaitlin , Kittai Adam S. , Reneau John , Zurko Joanna , Nizamuddin Imran A. , Winter Jane N. , Gordon Leo I. , Ma Shuo , Patel Romil , Nastoupil Loretta , Ahmed Sairah , Karmali Reem
Published: November 2023

Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy (CAR-T) has been successful in treating relapsed/refractory B-cell lymphomas. However, its role in the treatment of diseases involving the central nervous system (CNS) is not well studied. We performed a multicenter retrospective cohort study to evaluate the outcomes of patients with secondary CNS lymphoma (SCNSL) who received CAR-T. Eligibility required active CNSL at the time of apheresis. The objectives included evaluation of overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), identification of predictors of complete response (CR) post-CAR-T, and assessment of risk factors for cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS). Sixty-one patients were included in the analysis. The overall response rate was 68% with a CR rate of 57%. In the multivariable analysis, patients who experienced any grade CRS had higher odds of achieving CR (OR = 3.9, 95% CI = 1.01–15.39, p = 0.047). The median PFS was 3.3 months (95% CI = 2.6–6.0 months) with 6- and 12-month PFS rates of 35% and 16%, respectively. The median OS was 7.6 months (95% CI = 5.0–13.5 months) with 6- and 12-month OS rates of 59% and 41%, respectively. Any grade CRS and ICANS were 70% (n = 43) and 57% (n = 34), respectively with grade ≥ 3 CRS and ICANS rates of 16% and 44%. Factors associated with increased risk of CRS and ICANS included receiving axi-cel or having leptomeningeal ± parenchymal + CNS involvement, respectively. Despite achieving high response rates, most patients experience early relapse or death following CAR-T in SCNSL. The current study provides a benchmark for future trials exploring novel therapeutic options in SCNSL.
Effects of proprioceptive training on gait and plantar pressure after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Xiaojun Zhao , Ming Ma , Jianye Guo , Wudong Sun , Yi Qu , Jun Cui , Ningqinq Huang , Panpan Feng
Published: November 2023

Background

People who have undergone anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction have an increased risk of osteoarthritis. Abnormality of lower limb kinematics will occur after the operation. This may be related to lower limb muscle strength, the co-excitation of hamstrings and quadriceps femoris, and the weakness of proprioception. Proprioceptive training can improve the proprioception of lower limbs and promote the recovery of lower limb kinematics. Our research objective is to observe whether proprioceptive training can improve the proprioception of lower limbs within 3 months after surgery and whether the recovery of proprioception can correct the abnormal lower limb kinematics. The secondary objective is to explore the underlying mechanism of postoperative lower limb gait abnormalities.

Methods/design

This study is a prospective single-center randomized clinical trial to be conducted in the Sports Medicine and Orthopedics of Zhongda Hospital Southeast University. Forty participants aged 18–50, preparing to undergo anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, and initial anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using hamstring tendons as grafts will be randomly assigned to the intervention or comparator group. People in the intervention group will add proprioceptive training three times a week, 20 min each time. The intervention will be conducted on the first day after surgery. The researcher mainly collects the data of joint of sense, gait, and plantar pressure. The assessment will be divided into three stages: after signing the informed consent form (within 2 weeks before surgery), 6 weeks after surgery, and 12 weeks after surgery.

Discussion

The main purpose of our study is to explore whether the proprioception of patients after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction is weakened, whether the lower limb kinematics is abnormal and whether the lower limb kinematics can be corrected through proprioceptive training.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2200065808. Registered on 15 November 2022; Version 1.
The potential of shallot skin powder and actinomycetes metabolites as antimicrobe and antibiofilm in the treatment of eel (Anguilla bicolor bicolor) infected with Aeromonas hydrophila
Authors: Wahjuningrum Dinamella , Hilal Aisyah , Waturangi Diana Elizabeth , Nuryati Sri
Published: November 2023

Background

Eel (Anguilla bicolor bicolor) is an Indonesian export commodity. However, it is facing a problem related to Aeromonas hydrophila, which can cause motile aeromonas septicemia (MAS) and produce biofilm formation. Problem with antibiotic resistance challenges the need of an alternative treatment. Therefore, it is important to explore a solution to treat infection and the biofilm formed by A. hydrophila.

Objectives

In this study, we used shallot skin powder and actinomycetes metabolite 20 PM as antimicrobe and antibiofilm to treated eels infected with A. hydrophila.

Results

Shallot skin powder (6.25 g 100 g−1 feed) and Actinomycetes 20 PM metabolite (2 mL 100 g−1 feed) were found to be effective as antimicrobe and antibiofilm agent in treating eels infected with A. hydrophila. Eel treated with antibiotic, shallot skin powder, and actinomycetes metabolite had 80%, 66%, and 73% survival rates, respectively. Other indicators such as red blood cell count, hemoglobin, and hematocrit were increased, but white blood cell count and phagocytic activity were dropped. Biofilm destruction were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy to determined antibiofilm activity of actinomycetes metabolite against biofilm of A. Hydrophila.

Conclusions

Shallot skin powder and actinomycetes metabolite were potential to treat infection of A. hydrophila in eel as an alternative treatment to antibiotics.
Fairness resource allocation based on blockchain for secure communication in integrated IoT
Authors: Liang Wei , Zhao Jun , Liu Yan , Liang Yan , Li Jingwen
Published: November 2023

The emerging Space-Air-Ground, Artificial intelligence, blockchain and Vehicle-to-everything technology in Integrated Internet of Things (IoT) enables vehicles to communicate with other vehicles and roadside units (RSU), which improves communication efficiency and driving safety. Due to the rich data in the Integrated IoT, it is easy for illegal persons to steal data or deceive users. While reasonably allocating resources to complete the transmission task, it is still a challenge to ensure the communication security of vehicle users in Integrated IoT. In this paper, we study the cost of vehicle users transmitting tasks by Vehicle to Infrastructure and Vehicle to Vehicle (V2V) in Integrated IoT. In order to protect the information security, we establish the identity authentication and matching model to obtain a better channel environment of Integrated IoT. Moreover, we consider dynamic pricing based on bandwidth resource occupancy to ensure user experience and server load in Integrated IoT. Under the constraints of task tolerable delay, we fix the bandwidth on the V2V side and decouple the task decomposition and bandwidth allocation in Integrated IoT. Then, we propose algorithms Blockchain-based Vehicle Identity Authentication (BVIA) and Delay Weight Fairness Bandwidth Allocation (DWFBA). In this way, vehicle users and RSUs entering the Integrated IoT system are authenticated and matched with devices with good trust value, and the fairness of users resource allocation is guaranteed. Simulation results show that BVIA algorithm can reduce communication overhead, and DWFBA algorithm can control user costs and effectively reduce the number of task failures in Integrated IoT.
Importance of categories of crime for predicting future violent crime among handgun purchasers in California
Authors: Shev Aaron B. , Wright Mona A. , Kagawa Rose M. C. , Wintemute Garen J.
Published: November 2023

Background

Prohibiting the purchase and possession of firearms by those at risk of violence is an established approach to preventing firearm violence. Prior studies of legal purchasers have focused on convictions for specific crimes, such as violent misdemeanors and driving under the influence (DUI). We broaden that line of inquiry by investigating and comparing the associations between prior arrests for most categories of crime and subsequent arrest for violent offenses among legal handgun purchasers in California.

Methods

In this longitudinal cohort study of 79,678 legal handgun purchasers in California in 2001, we group arrest charges prior to their first purchases in 2001 according to categories defined by the Uniform Crime Report (UCR) Handbook. We use a gradient boosting machine to identify categories of offenses that are most important for predicting arrest for violent crime following firearm purchase. For each category identified, we then estimate the difference in risk of subsequent arrest for a violent offense using survival regression models.

Results

We identified eight crime categories with high predictive importance: simple assaults, aggravated assaults, vehicle violations, weapon, other crimes, theft, drug abuse, and DUI. Compared to purchasers with no prior arrests, those with a prior arrest for any one of the eight important categories and no other categories were found to be at increased risk of arrest for a Crime Index-listed violent crime (murder, rape, robbery, aggravated assault), with the greatest estimated risk corresponding to the simple assault UCR category (adjusted hazard ratio 4.0; 95% CI 2.8–5.9). Simple assault was also associated with the greatest risk for subsequent arrest for firearm violence (adjusted hazard ratio 4.6; 95% CI 2.4–9.0) and any violent offense (adjusted hazard ratio 3.7; 95% CI 2.7–5.0).

Conclusion

The findings of this study suggest that prior arrests for a broad array of crimes, both violent and non-violent, are associated with risk of subsequent violent crimes, including Crime Index-listed violent crimes and firearm violence, among legal purchasers of firearms. Current policies aimed at restricting access to firearms for individuals at increased risk of violence should be re-examined considering these findings.
Impact of malnutrition on the outcome and length of hospital stay in elective pediatric surgical patients: prospective cohort study at tertiary hospitals in Ethiopia
Authors: Wondemagegnehu Belachew D. , Aklilu Woubedel K. , Beyene Milliard D. , Nonyane Bareng A. Sanny
Published: November 2023

Background

Pediatric surgical patients in low and middle-income countries suffer from malnutrition on top of the surgical pathology and post-operative stress which increases post-operative morbidity and mortality. Malnutrition is highly prevalent in Africa and is expected to impact the outcome of surgical patients. The study was aimed at determining the impact of malnutrition on the outcome and length of hospital stay in elective pediatric surgical patients.

Methods

A prospective study was done on children, aged one month to fourteen years, who had undergone elective general surgery. Upon admission, nutritional assessment using an anthropometric indicator was undertaken and used to derive the WHO Anthro Z scores. Malnutrition was defined as a binary outcome: severely/moderately malnourished (Z < -2) versus well nourished (Z ≥ -2). After surgery, postoperative complications were documented. Chi-squared tests and t-tests were used to assess associations.

Results

Of the 109 enrolled children, 49 (45%) had malnutrition preoperatively. Infants had a higher prevalence of malnutrition (65% versus 35%, p-value = 0·028) compared to older children. Postoperative infection was relatively more common in malnourished children (27·1% versus 20%). The mean post-operative stays were 5·69 days (SD 0.46) for well-nourished children and 6.89 days (SD 0·9) for malnourished patients but the difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusion

We observed neither significant long hospital stays nor a higher incidence of postoperative infection among children with malnutrition. Further investigations with a larger sample size are warranted.
Persistent effects of intramammary ceftiofur treatment on the gut microbiome and antibiotic resistance in dairy cattle
Authors: Vasco Karla A. , Carbonell Samantha , Sloup Rebekah E. , Bowcutt Bailey , Colwell Rita R. , Graubics Karlis , Erskine Ronald , Norby Bo , Ruegg Pamela L. , Zhang Lixin , Manning Shannon D.
Published: November 2023

Background

Intramammary (IMM) ceftiofur treatment is commonly used in dairy farms to prevent mastitis, though its impact on the cattle gut microbiome and selection of antibiotic-resistant bacteria has not been elucidated. Herein, we enrolled 40 dairy (Holstein) cows at the end of the lactation phase for dry-cow therapy: 20 were treated with IMM ceftiofur (Spectramast®DC) and a non-antibiotic internal teat sealant (bismuth subnitrate) and 20 (controls) received only bismuth subnitrate. Fecal grab samples were collected before and after treatment (weeks 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, and 9) for bacterial quantification and metagenomic next-generation sequencing.

Results

Overall, 90% and 24% of the 278 samples had Gram-negative bacteria with resistance to ampicillin and ceftiofur, respectively. Most of the cows treated with ceftiofur did not have an increase in the number of resistant bacteria; however, a subset (25%) shed higher levels of ceftiofur-resistant bacteria for up to 2 weeks post-treatment. At week 5, the antibiotic-treated cows had lower microbiota abundance and richness, whereas a greater abundance of genes encoding extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs), CfxA, ACI-1, and CMY, was observed at weeks 1, 5 and 9. Moreover, the contig and network analyses detected associations between β-lactam resistance genes and phages, mobile genetic elements, and specific genera. Commensal bacterial populations belonging to Bacteroidetes most commonly possessed ESBL genes followed by members of Enterobacteriaceae.

Conclusion

This study highlights variable, persistent effects of IMM ceftiofur treatment on the gut microbiome and resistome in dairy cattle. Antibiotic-treated cattle had an increased abundance of specific taxa and genes encoding ESBL production that persisted for 9 weeks. Fecal shedding of ESBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae, which was classified as a serious public health threat, varied across animals. Together, these findings highlight the need for additional studies aimed at identifying factors associated with shedding levels and the dissemination and persistence of antibiotic resistance determinants on dairy farms across geographic locations.
Survival After Diagnosis of Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Malawi
Authors: Kaimila Bongani , Chen Yingxi , Mulima Gift , Kajombo Chifundo , Salima Ande , Yano Yukiko , Gopal Satish , Dawsey Sanford M. , Abnet Christian C.
Published: November 2023

PURPOSE

Esophageal cancer (EC) is the second most common cancer in Malawi, with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) representing >90% of all ECs. Despite significant morbidity and mortality, little is known about disease outcomes. In this study, we assess survival after ESCC diagnosis in Malawi.

METHODS

We report on ESCC cases enrolled in a case-control study at Kamuzu Central Hospital in Lilongwe from August 2017 to April 2020. Suspected cases completed a questionnaire interview; provided blood, urine, and saliva specimens; and underwent a tumor biopsy for histologic confirmation. Cases were followed up by phone biweekly from enrollment to the study end date (December 31, 2020), date of death, or loss to follow-up. Survival was assessed using Kaplan-Meier analysis with the log-rank test. We also examined associations between treatment and ESCC mortality using Cox regression models.

RESULTS

There were 300 patients with ESCC enrolled in this study, of whom 290 (97%) had known vital status at the end of follow-up and 10 (3%) were lost to follow-up. Among the 290 patients, 282 (97%) died during follow-up. The median age at enrollment was 55 years (IQR, 48-66), and the median time to death was 106 days (95% CI, 92 to 127). The 1-year, 2-year, and 3-year survival rates were 11% (95% CI, 8 to 15), 3% (95% CI, 1 to 6), and 0.9% (95% CI, 0.8 to 4), respectively. Palliative chemotherapy significantly improved the overall survival of patients with ESCC ( Plog-rank = .038) and was significantly associated with reduced mortality (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.71 [95% CI, 0.51 to 0.99]). No significant association was observed between tobacco use, alcohol consumption, or HIV status and mortality.

CONCLUSION

Survival after diagnosis of ESCC was poor in Malawi. Although palliative chemotherapy was associated with improved survival, prevention and earlier detection remain key priorities to improve ESCC mortality at a population level.
Classical Estrogen Signaling in Ciliated Epithelial Cells of the Oviduct Is Nonessential for Fertility in Female Mice
Authors: McGlade Emily A , Stephens Kalli K , Winuthayanon Sarayut , Anamthathmakula Prashanth , Holtzman Michael J , Winuthayanon Wipawee
Published: November 2023

Ciliary action performs a critical role in the oviduct (Fallopian tube) during pregnancy establishment through sperm and egg transport. The disruption of normal ciliary function in the oviduct affects oocyte pick-up and is a contributing factor to female infertility. Estrogen is an important regulator of ciliary action in the oviduct and promotes ciliogenesis in several species. Global loss of estrogen receptor α (ESR1) leads to infertility. We have previously shown that ESR1 in the oviductal epithelial cell layer is required for female fertility. Here, we assessed the role of estrogen on transcriptional regulation of ciliated epithelial cells of the oviduct using single-cell RNA-sequencing analysis. We observed minor variations in ciliated cell genes in the proximal region (isthmus and uterotubal junction) of the oviduct. However, 17β-estradiol treatment had little impact on the gene expression profile of ciliated epithelial cells. We also conditionally ablated Esr1 from ciliated epithelial cells of the oviduct (called ciliated Esr1d/d mice). Our studies showed that ciliated Esr1d/d females had fertility rates comparable to control females, did not display any disruptions in preimplantation embryo development or embryo transport to the uterus, and had comparable cilia formation to control females. However, we observed some incomplete deletion of Esr1 in the ciliated epithelial cells, especially in the ampulla region. Nevertheless, our data suggest that ESR1 expression in ciliated cells of the oviduct is dispensable for ciliogenesis and nonessential for female fertility in mice.
The dual function of prokinesis in the feeding and locomotor systems of parrots
Authors: Young Melody W. , Wilken Alec T. , Manafzadeh Armita R. , Schurr Alissa F. , Bastian Aaron , Dickinson Edwin , Granatosky Michael C.
Published: November 2023

Prokinesis, a mode of avian cranial kinesis involving motion between the neurocranium and upper beak, has long been investigated in biomechanical analyses of avian feeding and drinking. However, the modern avian beak is also used for non-feeding functions. Here, we investigate the dual function of prokinesis in the feeding and locomotor systems of the rosy-faced lovebird (Agapornis roseicollis). Lovebirds and other parrots utilize their beak both during feeding and as a third limb during vertical climbing. Thus, we experimentally measured both force-generating potential and movement of the rosy-faced lovebird mandible and maxilla (via prokinetic flexion of the craniofacial hinge) during tripedal climbing and mandibular/maxillary adduction. We found that whereas the maxilla is primarily responsible for generating force during locomotion, the mandible is primarily responsible for generating force during forceful jaw adduction, hinting at a remarkable capacity to alter prokinetic function with differing neuromuscular control. The ability of the prokinetic apparatus to perform functions with competing optimality criteria via modulation of motor control illustrates the functional plasticity of the avian cranial kinesis and sheds new light on the adaptive significance of cranial mobility.
Competências no setor público: Panorama da produção científica (inter)nacional
Authors: Barros Ana Caroline de Sousa , Hoffmann Valmir Emil , Viana Luiz Fernando Câmara , Silva Morgana Siqueira da
Published: November 2023

Este estudo caracterizou a produção acadêmica teórico-empírica sobre competências na administração pública disponível em periódicos nacionais e internacionais, nas bases Spell e Web of Science, considerando aspectos metodológicos e temas abordados. Foi aplicada uma análise bibliométrica da literatura, com tipificação metodológica, análise de correspondência múltipla e diagramas estratégicos, elaborados com as palavras-chave dos 86 artigos analisados. Evidenciou-se distinção entre as pesquisas nacional e internacional, pois, enquanto a primeira empregou majoritariamente estudos de caso, a segunda se mostrou mais heterogênea. Esses resultados indicam a necessidade de diversificação metodológica e temática da pesquisa brasileira sobre o tópico, sobretudo utilizando abordagem quantitativa e considerando distintos setores da administração pública, para identificar o que influencia o desenvolvimento das competências e seus resultados. Apresenta-se uma agenda de pesquisa para atuação de pesquisadores e gestores, dada a importância do estreitamento de laços entre atividade gerencial e academia para o desenvolvimento do conhecimento sobre o tema no Brasil.
Transparência sobre dirigentes públicos estaduais: Uma análise exploratória
Authors: De Freitas Matheus Nunes , Praca Sérgio Rodrigo Marchiori
Published: November 2023

Servidores públicos são fundamentais para o funcionamento do Estado. Em especial, os dirigentes públicos ocupam um lugar central ao traduzir a direção política em políticas públicas, sendo um elo entre a burocracia de alto escalão e a burocracia da linha de frente. Mas o quanto as informações governamentais permitem conhecer as características desses agentes que detêm cargos de confiança e são responsáveis por conduzir os assuntos públicos? Este artigo busca responder a essa pergunta analisando as legislações sobre a estrutura administrativa dos estados brasileiros e seus portais de transparência, verificando a viabilidade do entendimento de aspectos como atribuições, escolaridade, gênero e raça desses burocratas. Os resultados evidenciam a existência de limites para compreender o perfil dos dirigentes em nível subnacional, seja dentro do próprio estado ou em uma perspectiva comparada. O artigo contribui assim para conectar as discussões teóricas sobre transparência e composição da força de trabalho no setor público.
Reflexões sobre a implantação de escritório de gestão de projetos no setor de TI de uma universidade
Authors: Martins de Arruda Eduardo
Published: November 2023

O presente caso está centrado no dilema enfrentado pelo setor de TI de uma universidade brasileira. A Administração Pública, de maneira geral, é naturalmente mais reativa frente às mudanças da sociedade e, não raramente, incorpora e adapta tendências do setor privado. No tocante à administração das universidades públicas brasileiras, alguns pontos carecem de melhor compreensão: excesso de burocratização, entraves regulatórios, falta de articulação e integração entre setores, problemas com atribuições e funções entre setores, falta de recursos. Diante desse cenário, apresenta-se como questão central: Como melhorar o desempenho do setor de TI de uma universidade baseada numa proposta de implantação de escritório de gestão de projetos?
Morbidity profile and physical health status of orphans and vulnerable children in selected orphanages in Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Olowokere Adekemi E. , Aladegboye Mercy K , Komolafe Abiola O , Adedeji Ademidun O , Irinoye Omolola
Published: November 2023

Background:

Orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) are prone to poor health outcomes when compared to other children in society.

Aims:

This study assessed the morbidity profile and physical health status of OVC in orphanages.

Methods:

A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed and multistage sampling technique was used to select 384 OVC from the orphanages. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on morbidity profile while a head-to-toe assessment checklist and the body mass index (BMI) were used to assess their physical health status. Analysis was done using descriptive and inferential statistics at a significant level of 0.05.

Results:

Results showed that the most prevalent health problems experienced by OVC were headaches, respiratory infections, and malaria. The study further revealed that 44.8%, 29.9% and 25.3% of respondents had respectively fair, poor and good physical health.

Conclusions:

A substantial proportion of OVC have a fair and poor physical health status and the majority are underweight.
Time to Shine: The child that is fully seen, heard, and supported
Authors: Livsey Rachel
Published: November 2023

Children and young people would like school nurses to be visible, accessible and confidential. In a time of cuts and high waiting lists, especially in CAMHS services, school nurses can offer valuable evidence-based support. However, when reports suggest that school nurses spend too much time on bureaucratic child protection duties and paperwork and with depleted school nurse numbers nationally, how can this gap be bridged?

In this article, Rachel Livsey shares a new way of working where school nurses conduct a holistic health needs assessment, which considers all aspects of a child or young person's life has been suggested and created by the author. This work has been done in conjunction with a new robust safeguarding policy to allows school nurses to immerse themselves in the public health aspect of their work while participating in safeguarding duties in a proportionate and appropriate manner, with the aim of truly making every contact matter.
The remaking of working classes: digital labour platforms and workers’ struggles in the Global South
Authors: Castel-Branco Ruth , Dawson Hannah J.
Published: November 2023

This themed issue explores the impact of digital labour platforms on the conditions of work and social reproduction in the Global South. The collection of articles – most of which derive from research undertaken by the Future of Work(ers) research group, led by the Southern Centre for Inequality Studies at the University of the Witwatersrand – profile case studies from Argentina, Brazil, India, Kenya, South Africa and Uganda. The case studies focus on location-based platforms in food delivery, e-hailing, e-commerce and beauty and spa work. The collection of articles explores two broad and overlapping themes. The first is how platform business models are redefining the work process and the conditions of work. Here, labour process theory is particularly relevant because it allows us to identify both the points of value production and the sources of working-class power (Kenny and Webster, 2021). The second is the transformative possibilities and limitations of emerging forms of worker organisation. Here the power resources approach is especially useful because it allows us to analyse the extent to which organisations can leverage sources of power to transform the conditions of work and social reproduction. Ultimately, the contributions illustrate that the impact of digital technologies on the world of workers is neither predetermined nor linear. Rather it is shaped by struggle, the terms of which are themselves contingent.
Roundtable on Artificial Intelligence, Advertising, and Society
Authors: Barsan Ilinca , Chuan Ching-Hua , Martinez Luisa , Neff Christopher , Tsai Wan-Hsiu Sunny , Yang Jing , Timke Edward
Published: November 2023

Abstract: This roundtable focuses on the interplay between artificial intelligence (AI) and advertising, and its broader societal implications. The discussion first provides a historical overview of AI and then moves to AI's relevance to the advertising industry, highlighting tools like programmatic advertising and generative AI. It then covers the definitions, applications, and misperceptions surrounding AI. The participants emphasize the significant challenges of AI transparency, disclosure, and the need for consumer education, particularly given AI's potential for misinformation, biases, and deepfakes. The panel debates concerns about AI perpetuating societal biases, the need for human oversight, and AI's implications for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within advertising, marketing, and strategic communication. The roundtable delves into AI's impact on work and employment, and it underscores AI as a tool to enhance productivity that ultimately validates the enduring value of human understanding, creativity, and connection. The conclusion stresses the need for ethical considerations, ongoing learning about AI and technology, and the importance of human emotion in relating to consumers. With cautious optimism, the panelists advocate for a balanced but critical approach to AI's integration into advertising and marketing.