bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acinetobacter in fresh faecal samples is related to sperm motility: A case report in Piétrain boars housed on different deep‐litter bedding materials
Authors: Riedel Anine , Vahjen Wilfried , Lautner Matthias , Leiding Claus , Jung Markus , Zentek Jürgen , Schulze Martin
Published: May 2024

The swine gastrointestinal tract contains a great variety of microbes, forming a complex and dynamic ecosystem. Various internal and external factors (e.g. age, breed and diet) may influence its composition. This study aimed to investigate the gut microbial diversity of German Piétrain boars housed on different deep‐litter bedding materials (regional wood shavings, linen, hemp, spelt husks, and wood shavings) via 16S‐rDNA sequencing. Additionally, short‐chain fatty acids were analysed using gas chromatography. Fresh faecal samples (n = 80) from 40 Piétrain boars were collected twice during the trial. Although it can be assumed that boars ingest bedding orally, no differences in the microbiome composition could be found. The main phyla were Firmicutes and Bacteroides. Acinetobacter was identified as a biomarker for sperm quality differences (total sperm motility) in breeding boars.
Adjusting ram semen preservation: Exploring the impact of oxygen exposure during liquid storage
Authors: Ben Moula Anass , Hamidallah Naima , Badi Abdelmoughit , El Fadili Moussa , El Amiri Bouchra
Published: May 2024

This study investigated the effects of storage conditions on the quality of chilled ram semen stored at 4°C for 48 h, comparing aerobic and anaerobic conditions. Ejaculates from INRA180 rams were collected and stored under both conditions, with assessments at 0‐, 24‐, and 48‐h intervals. Various sperm parameters were examined, including motility, velocity, viability, morphology, membrane integrity, and lipid peroxidation. Results showed that storage duration significantly impacted sperm quality, leading to a gradual decline from 0 to 24 h and 24 to 48 h. Notably, after the initial 24 h, progressive motility (PM) and membrane integrity (MI) demonstrated distinct responses to storage conditions. Anaerobic storage consistently improved PM and MI values compared to aerobic storage between 24 and 48 h. Anaerobic conditions also enhanced viability and reduced abnormality at the 48‐h mark. Total motility remained stable throughout storage. Velocity parameters (VCL: curvilinear velocity; VSL: straight velocity and VAP: velocity average path) exhibited differences between the 24‐ and 48‐h intervals, with anaerobic storage resulting in higher VAP and VSL values. Moreover, lipid peroxidation exhibited a progressive increase from 0 to 24 h and 24 to 48 h, independent of storage conditions. Remarkably, anaerobic storage consistently yielded lower lipid peroxidation levels compared to aerobic storage, regardless of storage duration. In conclusion, this study highlights that the anaerobic storage proved advantageous for chilled ram semen quality, particularly after the initial 24 h.
Dynamics of transcription is affected by oxygen tension and developmental speed during in vitro production of bovine embryos
Authors: de Lima Camila Bruna , do Amaral Danilo Trabuco , Ispada Jéssica , dos Santos Érika Cristina , Fontes Patrícia Kubo , Nogueira Marcelo Fábio Gouveia , Milazzotto Marcella Pecora
Published: May 2024

This study examines the impact of oxygen tension and embryo kinetics on gene transcription dynamics in pathways crucial for embryonic preimplantation development, including lipid metabolism, carbohydrate transport and metabolism, mitochondrial function, stress response, apoptosis and transcription regulation. Bovine embryos were generated in vitro and allocated into two groups based on oxygen tension (20% or 5%) at 18 h post insemination (hpi). At 40 hpi, embryos were categorized into Fast (≥4 cells) or Slow (2 cells) groups, resulting in four experimental groups: FCL20, FCL5, SCL20 and SCL5. Embryo collection also occurred at 72 hpi (16‐cell stage; groups FMO20, FMO5, SMO20 and SMO5) and at 168 hpi (expanded blastocyst (BL) stage; groups FBL20, FBL5, SBL20 and SBL5). Pools of three embryos per group were analysed in four replicates using inventoried TaqMan assays specific for Bos taurus, targeting 93 genes. Gene expression patterns were analysed using the K‐means algorithm, revealing three main clusters: genes with low relative abundance at the cleavage (CL) and 16‐cell morula (MO) stages but increased at the BL stage (cluster 1); genes with higher abundances at CL but decreasing at MO and BL (cluster 2); and genes with low levels at CL, higher levels at MO and decreased levels at BL (cluster 3). Within each cluster, genes related to epigenetic mechanisms, cell differentiation events and glucose metabolism were particularly influenced by differences in developmental kinetics and oxygen tension. Fast‐developing embryos, particularly those cultured under low oxygen tension, exhibited transcript dynamics more closely resembling that reported in vivo‐produced embryos.
Everyday acts of kindness predict greater well‐being during the transition to university
Authors: Cash Tiara A. , Aknin Lara B. , Girme Yuthika U.
Published: May 2024

From becoming a teenager to starting university, life transitions are an inevitable part of human existence. While exciting, life transitions can be stressful because they involve changes in identity, routine, and expectations. What can support people during this period of change? Informed by past research demonstrating the emotional benefits of prosocial behavior, we examined whether everyday acts of prosociality might predict well‐being during a life transition using a pre‐registered 6‐week diary study conducted with students starting university (N = 193; 1544 observations). Consistent with pre‐registered hypotheses, participants experienced higher well‐being on scales capturing happiness, flourishing, thriving, optimism, resilience, anxiety and loneliness during weeks in which they completed more prosocial acts than their personal average. This research extends our understanding of the relationship between prosociality and well‐being to new theoretically relevant contexts, including extended, multi‐faceted personal stressors, and suggests that one potentially useful route to well‐being during life transitions could be helping others.
Redesigning the survey course: A focus on music, historically excluded identities, and the canon
Authors: Schicker Juliane
Published: May 2024

So‐called survey courses have been a persistent but contested genre in world languages, especially in regard to “the canon,” an unstable concept that has historically determined the textual choices of such surveys. This article presents a case study for redesigning the survey course genre in line with theory to diversify, decolonize, and decanonize the curriculum. It discusses a number of steps concerning the theoretical background, textual improvements, approaches to assignments, classroom atmosphere, and general pedagogy. It reflects on questions of positionality, institutional support, and workload. Focusing on music and short texts, the survey course described here questions the common practices and core values of German studies, music history, and musicology, and takes a critical stance toward privilege and power. In this context, the course counters tokenization, juxtaposes non‐canonical and canonical works, and focuses on inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility work, as well as universal instructional design principles and social justice education. Thus, the survey becomes a new genre—one that still offers students the breadth of cultural production but relies on a particular set of prerequisites determined by factors such as the space, time, and accessibility of a course, as well as the identity markers of instructor and students.
Diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma affecting the third eyelid of two young adult FeLV‐infected cats
Authors: Reis Ribeiro Paula , Bandinelli Marcele Bettim , Viezzer Bianchi Matheus , Brambatti Gustavo , de Campos Pereira Vanessa , Machado Sousa da Silva Emanoelly , Souza Monteggia Rafael , Driemeier David , Petinatti Pavarini Saulo
Published: May 2024

Lymphoma is one of the most frequently diagnosed tumors in FeLV‐infected cats. Extranodal lymphomas include lymphomas in ocular and periocular tissues, such as the third eyelid (TEL), which is an uncommonly diagnosed type of lymphoma in cats. This study aimed to describe the clinicopathological features of lymphoma in the TEL of two FeLV‐infected cats. A retrospective study in two anatomic pathology laboratories was performed, and two cases met the inclusion criteria. A 4‐year‐old, female cat (case 1), positive for FIV gp40 antigen and FeLV gp70 antigen by immunohistochemistry (IHC), and a male cat of 22 months old (case 2), positive both serologically for FeLV p27 antigen and for FeLV gp70 antigen by IHC, were referred to veterinary clinics with unilateral swelling and mass in the TEL, which had rapid growth in case 2. Histological and immunohistochemical analysis established the final diagnosis of diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma in both cases. The cat in case 2 died 4 months after the diagnosis, with clinical worsening prior to death. Necropsy was not performed in either case, which precluded the definition of a primary or secondary involvement. However, the ocular lesions were the reason for consultation in both cases and it may have been an initial manifestation of a multicentric disease. Thus, FeLV‐infected cats with clinical finding of eyelid swelling or mass formation should have lymphoma as a differential diagnosis, and a complete physical examination should be performed to detect extraocular involvement.
Digital Resilience, Digital Stress, and Social Support as Predictors of Academic Well-Being among University Students
Authors: Zayed Amal Mohamed
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to explore the relationship between academic well-being, digital resilience, digital stress, and social support among university students. Also, identify the students’ levels of these variables. As well as detecting differences due to gender, study level, academic specialization, and achievement level. A sample of 600 undergraduate students studying at Kafrelsheikh University, Egypt, participated in the study. Scales of digital resilience, digital stress, social support, and academic well-being were used to collect the required the data. The comparative-descriptive approach was used in this study. The study revealed a positive correlation between academic well-being, digital resilience, and social support, while a negative correlation was found with digital stress. The results also showed an average level in all the study variables, with no significant differences based on gender. Fourth-year students showed higher digital resilience and less digital stress compared to first-year students. High academic achievers had higher scores in digital resilience, social support, and academic well-being and lower scores in digital stress. Furthermore, the results indicated that digital resilience, digital stress, and social support significantly predict academic well-being. Some suggestions and educational recommendations were addressed, considering the results.
Dynamic Sensor Selection for Efficient Monitoring of Coupled Multidisciplinary Systems
Authors: Asadi Negar , Fatemeh Ghoreishi Seyede
Published: May 2024

Coupled multidisciplinary systems involve different disciplines/subsystems with feedback-coupled interactions, illustrating the complex interdependencies inherent in real-world engineering systems. Effective monitoring of a coupled multidisciplinary system is crucial for real-time assessment of the interactions between various disciplines within the system. This monitoring provides the data necessary for detecting and addressing issues in a timely manner and facilitates adaptive decision-making for taking reliable design or control actions. However, processing and analyzing data in real time is computationally intensive, and limited resources, such as computational power, sensor capabilities, and budget, may constrain the extent to which a system can be monitored comprehensively. To address this, this article develops a particle-based approach that dynamically selects a subset of sensors that provides the highest information about the state of the system in real time. The proposed approach first predicts the amount of uncertainty in the estimation of the state of the system given noisy measurements from different subsets of available sensors. Then, it selects the sensors that reduce this uncertainty the most, enhancing the precision and efficiency of the monitoring process. The efficacy of the proposed framework is demonstrated via two coupled multidisciplinary systems in the numerical experiments.
Investigation of an Inter-Compressor S-Duct Using the Lattice Boltzmann Method
Authors: Gianoli Thomas , Boussuge Jean-François , Sagaut Pierre , de Laborderie Jérôme
Published: May 2024

This article presents the study of a subsonic inter-compressor S-duct. Numerical simulations are performed using large-eddy simulation (LES) based on a compressible hybrid thermal lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) implemented within the ProLB solver. Comparisons are made between the LES–LBM results, Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) computations, and experimental measurements on a representative S-duct taken from the European project AIDA. Several cases with increasing complexity are addressed where the different rows surrounding the duct are gradually included in the computations. The effects of each row on the flow field development and loss levels are studied. The goal is to evaluate the ability of the LES–LBM to recover the aerodynamic behavior and the total pressure loss evolution within the duct. Results show that the LES–LBM retrieves the correct flow evolution inside the S-duct compared to the experiment and previous RANS results. The case where the upstream stator row or the low-pressure compressor stage is integrated shows an increase in total pressure loss, as previously observed in the literature, and a more developed flow field with complex flow features contributing to the loss generation. To further analyze the loss mechanism, an entropy-based approach is presented and highlights that most losses are generated close to the hub wall due to the migration of the upstream stator wakes.
Impact of NICE clinical guidelines for prevention and treatment of neonatal infections on antibiotic use in very preterm infants in England and Wales: an interrupted time series analysis
Authors: Saunders Mike , Ojha Shalini , Szatkowski Lisa
Published: May 2024

Objective

To assess the impact of publication of UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines on the prevention and treatment of early-onset infections (EOIs) in neonates (clinical guideline 149 (CG149), published in 2012, and its 2021 update (NG195) on antibiotic use in very preterm infants.

Design

Interrupted time series analysis using data from the National Neonatal Research Database.

Setting

Neonatal units in England and Wales.

Participants

Infants born at 22–31 weeks’ gestation from 1 January 2010 to 31 December 2022 and survived to discharge.

Interventions

Publication of CG149 (August 2012) and NG195 (April 2021).

Main outcome measures

Measures of antibiotic use, aggregated by month of birth: antibiotic use rate (AUR), the proportion of care days in receipt of at least one antibiotic; percentage of infants who received ≥1 day of antibiotics on days 1–3 for EOI and after day 3 for late-onset infection (LOI); percentage who received ≥1 prolonged antibiotic course ≥5 days for EOI and LOI.

Results

96% of infants received an antibiotic during inpatient stay. AUR declined at publication of CG149, without further impact at NG195 publication. There was no impact of CG149 on the underlying trend in infants receiving ≥1 day antibiotics for EOI or LOI, but post-NG195 the monthly trend began to decline for EOI (−0.20%, −0.26 to −0.14) and LOI (−0.23%, −0.33 to −0.12). Use of prolonged antibiotic courses for EOI and LOI declined at publication of CG149 and for LOI this trend accelerated post-NG195.

Conclusions

Publications of NICE guidance were associated with reductions in antibiotic use; however neonatal antibiotic exposure remains extremely high.
Comprehensive preimplantation genetic testing for balanced insertional translocation carriers
Authors: Zhang Shuo , Pei Zhenle , Xiao Min , Zhou Jing , Hu Bin , Zhu Saijuan , Sun Xiaoxi , Wu Junping , Lei Caixia , Xu Congjian
Published: May 2024

Background

Balanced insertional translocations (BITs) can increase the risk of infertility, recurrent miscarriages or neonatal birth defects due to chromosomal imbalances in gametes. However, studies on preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) for patients carrying BITs are inadequate.

Methods

A preimplantation genetic genotyping and haplotype analysis approach was developed and implemented in this study. Genome-wide SNP genotyping was performed, followed by core family-based haplotype analysis. The balanced insertion segments in euploid embryos were inferred from the haplotypes inherited from the carrier parent.

Results

A total of 10 BIT carrier couples were enrolled in our study. 15 in vitro fertilisation cycles were conducted, resulting in 73 blastocysts biopsied and subjected to PGT analysis. Among these, 20 blastocysts displayed rearrangement-related imbalances, 13 exhibited de novo aneuploidies, 15 presented a complex anomaly involving both imbalances and additional aneuploidies, while 25 were euploid. Within the euploid embryos, 12 were balanced carrier embryos and 13 were non-carrier embryos. To date, eight non-carrier and one carrier embryos have been transferred, resulting in seven clinical pregnancies. All pregnancies were recommended to perform prenatal diagnosis, our date revealed complete concordance between fetal genetic testing results and PGT results. Presently, five infants have been born from these pregnancies, and two pregnancies are still ongoing.

Conclusion

The proposed method facilitates comprehensive chromosome screening and the concurrent identification of balanced insertions or normal karyotypes in embryos. This study offers an effective and universally applicable strategy for BIT carriers to achieve a healthy pregnancy and prevent the transmission of BITs to their offspring.
Full quantum tomography study of Google’s Sycamore gate on IBM’s quantum computers
Authors: AbuGhanem Muhammad , Eleuch Hichem
Published: May 2024

The potential of achieving computational hardware with quantum advantage depends heavily on the quality of quantum gate operations. However, the presence of imperfect two-qubit gates poses a significant challenge and acts as a major obstacle in developing scalable quantum information processors. Google’s Quantum AI and collaborators claimed to have conducted a supremacy regime experiment. In this experiment, a new two-qubit universal gate called theSycamoregate is constructed and employed to generate random quantum circuits (RQCs), using a programmable quantum processor with 53 qubits. These computations were carried out in a computational state space of size$9 \times 10^{15}$9×1015. Nevertheless, even in strictly-controlled laboratory settings, quantum information on quantum processors is susceptible to various disturbances, including undesired interaction with the surroundings and imperfections in the quantum state. To address this issue, we conduct both quantum state tomography (QST) and quantum process tomography (QPT) experiments on Google’sSycamoregate using different artificial architectural superconducting quantum computer. Furthermore, to demonstrate how errors affect gate fidelity at the level of quantum circuits, we design and conduct full QST experiments for the five-qubit eight-cycle circuit, which was introduced as an example of the programability of Google’sSycamorequantum processor. These quantum tomography experiments are conducted in three distinct environments: noise-free, noisy simulation, and on IBM Quantum’s genuine quantum computer. Our results offer valuable insights into the performance of IBM Quantum’s hardware and the robustness ofSycamoregates within this experimental setup. These findings contribute to our understanding of quantum hardware performance and provide valuable information for optimizing quantum algorithms for practical applications.
Multidirectional Intervention of Chinese Herbal Medicine in the Prevention and Treatment of Atherosclerosis: From Endothelial Protection to Immunomodulation
Authors: Li Jia-Ni , Wang Meng-Yu , Tan Yu-Rong , Wang Li-Li
Published: May 2024

Atherosclerosis is a significant risk factor for developing cardiovascular disease and a leading cause of death worldwide. The occurrence of atherosclerosis is closely related to factors such as endothelial injury, lipid deposition, immunity, and inflammation. Conventional statins, currently used in atherosclerosis treatment, have numerous adverse side effects that limit their clinical utility, prompting the urgent need to identify safer and more effective therapeutic alternatives. Growing evidence indicates the significant potential of Chinese herbs in atherosclerosis treatment. Herbal monomer components, such as natural flavonoid compounds extracted from herbs like Coptis chinensis and Panax notoginseng, have been utilized for their lipid-lowering and inflammation-inhibiting effects in atherosclerosis treatment. These herbs can be used as single components in treating diseases and with other Chinese medicines to form herbal combinations. This approach targets the disease mechanism in multiple ways, enhancing the therapeutic effects. Thus, this review examines the roles of Chinese herbal medicine monomers and Chinese herbal compounds in inhibiting atherosclerosis, including regulating lipids, improving endothelial function, reducing oxidative stress, regulating inflammation and the immune response, and apoptosis. By highlighting these roles, our study offers new perspectives on atherosclerosis treatment with Chinese herbs and is anticipated to contribute to advancements in related research fields.
Ginsenoside Rk1 Ameliorates ER Stress-Induced Apoptosis through Directly Activating IGF-1R in Mouse Pancreatic β-Cells and Diabetic Pancreas
Authors: Vong Chi Teng , Tan Dechao , Liao Fengyun , Chen Zhejie , Chen Zhangmei , Tseng Hisa Hui Ling , Cheang Wai San , Wang Shengpeng , Wang Yitao
Published: May 2024

Hyperglycemia induces chronic stresses, such as oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, which can result in [Formula: see text]-cell dysfunction and development of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). Ginsenoside Rk1 is a minor ginsenoside isolated from Ginseng. It has been shown to exert anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and neuroprotective effects; however, its effects on pancreatic cells in T2DM have never been studied. This study aims to examine the novel effects of Ginsenoside Rk1 on ER stress-induced apoptosis in a pancreatic [Formula: see text]-cell line MIN6 and HFD-induced diabetic pancreas, and their underlying mechanisms. We demonstrated that Ginsenoside Rk1 alleviated ER stress-induced apoptosis in MIN6 cells, which was accomplished by directly targeting and activating insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R), thus activating the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt)/Bcl-2-associated agonist of cell death (Bad)-B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) pathway. This pathway was also confirmed in an HFD-induced diabetic pancreas. Meanwhile, the use of the IGF-1R inhibitor PQ401 abolished this anti-apoptotic effect, confirming the role of IGF-1R in mediating anti-apoptosis effects exerted by Ginsenoside Rk1. Besides, Ginsenoside Rk1 reduced pancreas weights and increased pancreatic insulin contents, suggesting that it could protect the pancreas from HFD-induced diabetes. Taken together, our study provided novel protective effects of Ginsenoside Rk1 on ER stress-induced [Formula: see text]-cell apoptosis and HFD-induced diabetic pancreases, as well as its direct target with IGF-1R, indicating that Ginsenoside Rk1 could be a potential drug for the treatment of T2DM.
Design and Analysis of an Interior Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor for a Traction Drive Using Multiobjective Optimization
Authors: Xu Yingying , Chen Yiguang , Fu Zhihua , Xu Mingxia , Liu Haiyu , Cheng Li
Published: May 2024

With the development of new energy industries, the demand for the driving range and power quality of electric vehicle (EV) drive systems is growing rapidly. The drive motor is faced with the challenge of continuously improving power density and performance. This paper proposes a multiobjective optimization method for an interior permanent magnet synchronous motor for a traction drive (IPMSMTD). Based on the flat wire winding technology, the multiobjective optimization design of the IPMSMTD is carried out to improve the motor power density and high-efficiency range, reduce the torque ripple, and suppress the electromagnetic vibration and noise. The structure and size equation of the IPMSMTD are described. The mathematical model considering iron losses is established, and the optimization objectives are determined. Based on the genetic algorithm, a multiobjective optimization mechanism of the magnetic pole structure is established. The operation performance of the motor is analyzed by the finite element simulation and efficiency map. In order to ensure the comprehensive operation index of the IPMSMTD, the vibration noise and modal analysis are carried out, which verifies the rationality of the designed motor and the optimization method.
Characterization of AB598, a CD39 Enzymatic Inhibitory Antibody for the Treatment of Solid Tumors
Authors: Anderson Amy E. , Parashar Kaustubh , Jin Ke , Clor Julie , Stagnaro Carlo E. , Vani Urvi , Singh Jaskirat , Chen Ada , Guan Yihong , Talukdar Priyanka , Sathishkumar Pavithra , Juat Damie J. , Singh Hema , Kushwaha Ritu , Zhao Xiaoning , Kaplan Angelo , Seitz Lisa , Walters Matthew J. , Fernandez-Salas Ester , Walker Nigel P.C. , Bowman Christine E.
Published: May 2024

AB598 is a CD39 inhibitory antibody being pursued for the treatment of solid tumors in combination with chemotherapy and immunotherapy. CD39 metabolizes extracellular adenosine triphosphate (eATP), an alarmin capable of promoting antitumor immune responses, into adenosine, an immuno-inhibitory metabolite. By inhibiting CD39, the consumption of eATP is reduced, resulting in a proinflammatory milieu in which eATP can activate myeloid cells to promote antitumor immunity. The preclinical characterization of AB598 provides a mechanistic rationale for combining AB598 with chemotherapy in the clinic. Chemotherapy can induce ATP release from tumor cells and, when preserved by AB598, both chemotherapy-induced eATP and exogenously added ATP promote the function of monocyte-derived dendritic cells via P2Y11 signaling. Inhibition of CD39 in the presence of ATP can promote inflammasome activation in in vitro-derived macrophages, an effect mediated by P2X7. In a MOLP8 murine xenograft model, AB598 results in full inhibition of intratumoral CD39 enzymatic activity, an increase in intratumoral ATP, a decrease of extracellular CD39 on tumor cells, and ultimately, control of tumor growth. In cynomolgus monkeys, systemic dosing of AB598 results in effective enzymatic inhibition in tissues, full peripheral and tissue target engagement, and a reduction in cell surface CD39 both in tissues and in the periphery. Taken together, these data support a promising therapeutic strategy of harnessing the eATP generated by standard-of-care chemotherapies to prime the tumor microenvironment for a productive antitumor immune response.
Beyond Restrictive: Sleeve Gastrectomy to Single Anastomosis Duodeno-Ileal Bypass with Sleeve Gastrectomy as a Spectrum of One Single Procedure
Authors: Pereira Ana Marta , Moura Diogo , Pereira Sofia S. , Andrade Sara , Almeida Rui Ferreira de , Nora Mário , Monteiro Mariana P. , Guimarães Marta
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Single anastomosis duodeno-ileal bypass with sleeve gastrectomy (SADI-S) is a restrictive/hypoabsorptive procedure recommended for patients with obesity class 3. For safety reasons, SADI-S can be split into a two-step procedure by performing a sleeve gastrectomy (SG) first. This stepwise approach also provides an unprecedented opportunity to disentangle the weight loss mechanisms triggered by each component. The objective was to compare weight trajectories and post-prandial endocrine and metabolic responses of patients with obesity class 3 submitted to SADI-S or SG as the first step of SADI-S. Methods: Subjects submitted to SADI-S (n = 7) or SG (n = 7) at a tertiary referral public academic hospital underwent anthropometric evaluation and a liquid mixed meal tolerance test (MMTT) pre-operatively and at 3, 6, and 12 months post-operatively. Results: Anthropometric parameters, as well as metabolic and micronutrient profiles, were not significantly different between groups, neither before nor after surgery. There were no significant differences in fasting or post-prandial glucose, insulin, C-peptide, ghrelin, insulin secretion rate, and insulin clearance during the MMTT between subjects submitted to SADI-S and SG. There was no lost to follow-up. Conclusions: The restrictive component seems to be the main driver for weight loss and metabolic adaptations observed during the first 12 months after SADI-S, given that the weight trajectories and metabolic profiles do not differ from SG. These data provide support for surgeons’ choice of a two-step SADI-S without jeopardizing the weight loss outcomes.
Efficacy and Safety of Dupilumab in Chinese Elderly Patients with Atopic Dermatitis: A Real-World Study
Authors: Hu Yu-Qing , Zhang Jian-Zhong , Zhao Yan
Published: May 2024

Introduction: With the aging of the population in China, the prevalence of atopic dermatitis (AD) is high in elderly patients. These patients usually have more comorbidities and they need more effective and safer treatments. Dupilumab is an anti-interleukin-4 (IL-4) receptor monoclonal antibody which was approved for the treatment of moderate-to-severe AD. Methods: Elderly patients (60 years or older) with moderate-to-severe AD who treated with dupilumab were included. Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) score, Peak Pruritus Numerical Rating Scale (PP-NRS), EASI-50, EASI-75, and EASI-50 were evaluated. The efficacy in subgroups was also investigated. Results: Fifty-eight patients were enrolled. The EASI score and PP-NRS score were significantly reduced at weeks 4, 16, 28, and 52. 91.2% and 79.4% of the patients achieved EASI-50 and EASI-75 at week 16, respectively. 95.8% and 87.5% patients achieved EASI-50 and EASI-75 at week 52, respectively. Adverse events were reported in 10 (17.2%) patients, and no severe adverse event was reported. Male, older age, and moderate AD (EASI <21) were related to better efficacy. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that dupilumab is effective and safe in elderly patients with AD.
A Cluster Randomised Controlled Trial of a Targeted Distributed Toothpaste and Toothbrushing Programme
Authors: Goodwin Michaela , MacKay Laura , Walsh Tanya , Akram Karim , Pretty Iain A.
Published: May 2024

Introduction: The aim was to assess the effectiveness of a distributed, targeted toothbrush and toothpaste programme on referrals for tooth extraction under Dental General Anaesthetic (DGA), in children of high-risk families compared to usual care. Methods: A recruiter and assessor-blinded, clustered parallel randomised control trial (RCT). Families with one or more children aged between 3 and 10 years having undergone a DGA operation for extraction of carious teeth, were approached within hospitals in the North West of England. Families were randomised at the cluster level in a 1:1 ratio. All eligible children within the family consented to the study. The primary outcome was participant referral for a DGA 6–24-month post-randomisation. Results: A total of 961 families (1,671 children) were randomised, 482 families (832 children) to the intervention, and 479 families (839 children) to the control group. Families (1,662 children, 955 families) were included in the final analysis (825 intervention, 837 control). Marginal regression models (generalised estimating equation approach) taking into account cluster membership were used to model the effectiveness of the intervention at 24 and 48 month follow-up, including the variables, age, sex, and IMD quintile. Seventy-six children (9.2%) in the intervention group had a DGA referral within 2 years compared to 57 children (6.8%) in the control group. The study found no effect of a clinically meaningful difference between the intervention group and usual care (risk ratio 1.36, 95% CI: 0.98–1.89) in reducing referral for DGA for a targeted postal toothpaste/toothbrush program in a contemporary, population with previous family experience of DGA residing in an area of high deprivation. Conclusion: The target of the intervention (families of children with a DGA) was the correct focus given the referrals observed over 2 and 4 years. The study can aid policymakers, local authorities and commissioners to understand repeat DGA within families and further need for intervention.
Novel Compound Heterogeneous Mutations in CYB5R3 Gene Leading to Methemoglobinemia (Type I) in a Chinese Boy: Case Report and Relevant Comprehensive Analysis
Authors: Yang Yeyi , Yang Yezhen , Meng Ye , Huang Lihua , Yang Zuocheng
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Recessive congenital methemoglobinemia (RCM) caused by CYB5R3 deficiency due to the mutations in the reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) cytochrome b5 reductase (CYB5R) gene is an autosomal recessive inherited disease. Clinically, it can be divided into two types, namely red blood cell affected type (RCM I) and systemically affected type (RCM II). Case Presentation: A 5-year-old male patient was diagnosed with cyanosis for 5 years. Physical examination showed cyanosis in areas such as the lips, fingers, and toes. Laboratory examination revealed low pulse oxygen saturation (81%) and increased blood methemoglobin (23.6%). Gene testing revealed the compound heterozygous mutations in the CYB5R3 gene, c.149G>A (p.Arg50Gln) and c.331A>G (p.Lys111Glu), respectively originating from his parents. By constructing 3D models of CYB5R3 wild-type and mutant types using SWISS-MODEL software, it was found that the mutation caused significant structural abnormalities in the CYB5R protein. The relationship between CYB5R3 gene mutation sites, amino acid change, enzyme activity, and methemoglobinemia type I and II were listed and analyzed. Conclusion: A case of congenital RCM type I caused by compound heterozygous mutations in the CYB5R3 gene was reported, with c.331A>G (p.Lys111Glu) being the newly reported mutation. The homozygosity or heterozygosity of CYB5R3 gene mutations that lead to premature termination, loss of exons, and change in amino acid properties in FAD or NADH binding domains, is positively correlated with the severity (from type I to type II) of methemoglobinemia.
Association of Foot Health and Lower Extremity Function in Older People with Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Stolt Minna , Narsakka Noora , Katajisto Jouko , Suhonen Riitta
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Foot health and lower extremity function are important in older people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), as they maintain and promote these individuals’ independent living and functional health. RA is a long-term inflammatory health condition that alters foot structure and function. Relatively little is known about the association between foot health and lower extremity function in older people with RA. Therefore, the aim of the study was to analyse the levels of foot health and lower extremity function in older people with RA and to explore the associations between these factors. Methods: A cross-sectional survey design study was conducted. The data were collected online in April 2023 from a national association of patients with rheumatic conditions in Finland using two instruments: the Self-administered Foot Health Assessment Instrument (S-FHAI) and the Lower Extremity Function Scale (LEFS). The data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: Older people with RA (n = 270) reported many foot health problems, the most common of which were foot pain, dry skin, and oedema. Lower extremity function in older people with RA was at the mild-to-moderate functional limitation level and respondents reported major difficulties running or hopping, squatting, carrying out their usual hobbies, performing strenuous activities outside their homes or putting on shoes/socks. Poor levels of foot health were correlated with decreased lower extremity function. Conclusion: Foot health is associated with lower extremity function in older people with RA. Therefore, it is essential that older people with RA be provided with systematic foot health assessments, care and rehabilitation to promote their lower extremity health and improve their functional health. Multiprofessional collaboration and seamless care chains at different levels of health care could benefit older people with RA looking to maintain their functional ability and – above all – promote their active ageing.
A reference profile of N-glycosylation for human kidney and the identification of cell-cell interactions between parietal epithelial cells and capillary endothelial cells by single-cell glycosylation-sequencing
Authors: Xiao Mengyun , Yan Qiang , Luan Shaodong , Lai Liusheng , Xu Zigan , Zou Yaoshuang , Zeng Zhipeng , Li Haitao , Qiu Jing , Tang Donge , Yin Lianghong , Dai Yong
Published: May 2024

Background N-glycosylation is one of the most common post-translational modifications in humans, and these alterations are associated with kidney diseases. Methods A novel technological approach, single-cell N-acetyllactosamine sequencing (scLacNAc-seq), was applied to simultaneously detect N-glycosylation expression and the transcriptome at single-cell resolution in three human kidney tissues from zero-time biopsy. Cell clusters, glycation abundance in each cell cluster, functional enrichment analysis, cell-cell crosstalk, and Pseudotime analysis were applied. Results Using scLacNAc-seq, 24,247 cells and 22 cell clusters were identified, and N-glycan abundance in each cell was obtained. Transcriptome analysis revealed a close connection between capillary endothelial cells (CapECs) and parietal epithelial cells (PECs). PECs and CapECs communicate with each other through several pairs of ligand receptors (e.g., TGFB1-EGFR, GRN-EGFR, TIMP1-FGFR2, VEGFB-FLT1, ANGPT2-TEK, and GRN-TNFRSF1A). Finally, a regulatory network of cell–cell crosstalk between PECs and CapECs was constructed, which is involved in cell development. Conclusions We here, for the first time, constructed the glycosylation profile of 22 cell clusters in the human kidney from time-zero biopsy. Moreover, cell–cell communication between PECs and CapECs through the ligand–receptor system may play a crucial regulatory role in cell proliferation.
El papel de las expresiones artísticas en la construcción de las subjetividades políticas juveniles. Análisis en las organizaciones de jóvenes que reivindican derechos humanos
Authors: Ramírez Corredor María Fernanda
Published: May 2024

Este artículo analiza cómo las expresiones artísticas utilizadas por las organizaciones juveniles que desarrollan acciones en la defensa de los derechos humanos, son dispositivos que permiten renovar el accionar de las organizaciones sociales, involucrar herramientas novedosas a la práctica organizativa y destacar las preferencias de los mundos de vida juvenil actual; elementos que inciden en la construcción de la subjetividad política juvenil.
La formación de sujetos autónomos: una reflexión a partir de la práctica de las instituciones que hacen innovación educativa
Authors: Dallos Santander Diana Carolina , Delgado Tengono Laura Viviana , Ducón Salas Julio Cesar
Published: May 2024

En la formación de sujetos autónomos es imprescindible reconocer que el dinamismo que tiene el ámbito educativo pone en evidencia la necesidad de entenderse como personas creativas, flexibles e integrales, que tengan como base el respeto y la libertad en la construcción de conocimientos. Esto debe hacerse través del diálogo y la integración de saberes en donde maestros y alumnos puedan fortalecer su subjetividad, asumiendo una posición política en contra de la dominación y la desigualdad. De ahí que conocer la experiencia de instituciones que hacen innovación educativa con este enfoque pone de manifiesto su importancia y es la razón de este artículo.
La subjetividad política en el contexto de las organizaciones populares de vivienda - caso el trébol
Authors: Milena Quintero Sugey
Published: May 2024

El presente artículo de investigación, desarrollado en el marco del estudio, “Las Organizaciones Populares de Vivienda (OPV) - Espacio para la Configuración de la Subjetividad”, pretende aportar una reflexión en torno al proceso de constitución de la subjetividad política, en el contexto de las organizaciones populares, a partir de la comprensión del proceso de agencia del derecho a la vivienda de la OPV El Trébol, ubicada en el municipio de Sogamoso, Boyacá.

El enfoque metodológico acogido durante el ejercicio investigativo, incorpora elementos de orden cualitativo, que conjugados con la hermenéutica y el uso de técnicas propias de la etnografía, aportan un contexto de desarrollo propicio que permite comprender la cotidianidad de la realidad social, a partir del reconocimiento y resignificación de las formas de actuar, pensar y sentir de los protagonistas de los procesos. En ese orden de ideas, a través del estudio se abrió el escenario para reflexionar y reconfigurar la experiencia de la acción colectiva emprendida por El Trébol, en su camino por conseguir una vivienda digna para las familias asociadas, lo cual permitió intuir y develar las formas en que se configura la subjetividad política que serán presentadas a continuación, con la esperanza de aportar elementos a la discusión y al debate.
Habilidades de la inteligencia emocional en estudiantes y madres de grado primero de la institución educativa distrital la paz
Authors: Gutiérrez Tamayo Glomer Liliana
Published: May 2024

El escrito sintetiza el proceso y resultados de la investigación “Caracterización de la inteligencia emocional de niños y madres de grado primero de la Institución Educativa Distrital La Paz”. El modelo de Mayer y Salovey (1997) sirvió de referente teórico. Se realizó un estudio de carácter explicativo-comprensivo, con la participación de 37 niños de grado primero con edades entre los 6 y 9 años y sus madres. Se diseñaron tres guías para lograr que los niños identificaran emociones en expresiones no verbales, frases que promovieran la autoconciencia emocional e identificaran emociones en situaciones de aula; con las madres se empleó la entrevista. Los resultados sugieren que la mayoría de los niños y niñas se encuentran en el nivel de percepción, evaluación y expresión de emociones. Tan solo unos pocos alcanzan los siguientes niveles. Las madres se encuentran igualmente en el primer nivel de la habilidad de inteligencia emocional. Además, se evidenció la importancia del docente como figura significativa y modelo emocional desde el sentir y el hacer, con la propuesta pedagógica que desarrolla en el aula.
Porque te quiero te aporreo: la violencia contra las mujeres como el sustento del patriarcado
Authors: Franco Moreno María Isleny , Rodríguez Avendaño Dora Cecilia
Published: May 2024

Este artículo pretende profundizar sobre la categoría “patriarcado”, utilizada como una de las categorías teóricas en la realización del trabajo de investigación titulado Relaciones de Poder que hacen legítimo el uso de la violencia sobre los cuerpos femeninos en parejas heterosexuales. Se desarrollará la tesis de que las relaciones de poder se constituyen de forma tal, que hacen legítimo el uso de la violencia sobre los cuerpos femeninos en las parejas heterosexuales. En consecuencia, ésta constitución de las relaciones de poder y el uso de la violencia son mecanismos mediante los cuales se mantiene vivo el patriarcado como sistema de dominación.

Para desarrollar esta tesis, se hará un análisis de los mitos de origen del Estado moderno, se revisará la promulgación de los roles de género como producto de la división sexual del trabajo y los efectos de la asunción de la familia heterosexual, monogámica y privada. Finalmente, se hará una comparación teórica del binomio “público/privado” versus “el adentro” y “el afuera”.
Morpho-anatomical and palynotaxonomic study of the genus Onobrychis Miller (Hedysareae—Fabaceae) in Pakistan, and its systematic significance
Authors: KHAN AMJAD , SULTAN AMIR , SHAH SAYED AFZAL , KHAN RAEES , KHAN NAZAR , MUMTAZ ABDUL SAMAD , KALEEM MUHAMMAD , ABDULLAH MUHAMMAD , AL-QAHTANI WAHIDAH H. , KHAN TAHIR
Published: May 2024

The present study was designed to assess the morphology, anatomy and pollen morphology of six Onobrychis species native to Pakistan, aiming at enriching their characterization. Among the morphological features, stipules, bracts, floral segments (calyx, vexillum, wing, keel, stamen and carpel) and fruits along with seed morphology were studied. Consequently, for anatomical study slides were prepared and properly stained to assess their characters in stem, petiole, peduncle and leaflet. Among the morphological characters, the ones that significantly varied among the studied taxa were the shape and size of stipules, calyx teeth shape and size, color, shape and size of the corolla, ovary shape and size, pod along with seeds shape and size. Pollen grains were tricolpate, isopolar and radially symmetrical, prolate in shape and obtuse convex in general view. Exine ornamentation was micro-reticulate (O. cornuta and O. laxiflora), supra-reticulate (O. dealbata), micro-reticulate perforate (O. micrantha), micro-reticulate granulate (O. stewartii), and reticulate (O. tavernierifolia). Polar to equatorial ratio (P/E ratio) was measured from minimum 1.35 in O. laxiflora to maximum 1.65 in O. dealbata. In addition, ordination (PCA) and clustering (UPGMA) analysis were performed on measured pollen characters. Among the anatomical features, variations were found in the outline of the stem, petiole, peduncle and leaflet, the number of layers of collenchyma and parenchyma in the stem, number of vascular bundles, pith shape in the petiole and peduncle. In leaflets anatomy, the numbers of layers of palisade and spongy parenchyma were assessed in the studied species.
Pterobryopsis siheiana (Bryophyta: Pterobryaceae)—a new species from the Western Ghats of India
Authors: DANIELS A.E.D. , ATHIRA S. , KUZNETSOVA O.I. , IGNATOV M.S.
Published: May 2024

Pterobryopsis siheiana A.E.D. Daniels & S. Athira is described as a new species from the southern part of the Western Ghats. It differs from other congeners in a combination of a large group of quadrate to subquadrate supra-alar cells above the reddish-brown tinted alar cells in both stem and branch leaves, the variable costae between stem and branch leaves, and the apical cells strongly differentiated between stem and branch leaves. The ITS sequence data support the separate position of P. siheiana and indicate its closest relationship with P. schmidii and P. divergens.
A new species of Epidendrum (Laeliinae: Orchidaceae) from the province of Zamora Chinchipe in Ecuador
Authors: LAPO-GONZALEZ NADIA , HÁGSATER ERIC , VÉLEZ-ABARCA LEISBERTH , UYAGUARI JOHNY J. MENDOZA , Jiménez Marco M. , KUETHE J.R.
Published: May 2024

A new species of Epidendrum from the province of Zamora Chinchipe, belonging to the Incomptum informal group, is described and illustrated. Information on its distribution, habitat, phenology, and conservation status is provided. The new species, Epidendrum quimiense, is compared with Epidendrum marci-jimeneziorum, Epidendrum chisquillense and Epidendrum ulcumanoae from which it is easily distinguished by having green to yellowish-green flowers, the ovary ventrally inflated along the apical half and the lip bilobed, reniform with the sides strongly revolute and apron-shaped.