bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kidney Histopathology of Patients with Hepatitis C Infection and Diabetes Mellitus Before and After Availability of Direct Acting Antiviral Therapy
Authors: Kung Vanderlene L. , Giannini Gabriel , Nast Cynthia C.
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) and diabetic kidney disease are increasing. Hepatitis C infection (HCV) occurs in 1% of the world population and can induce several kidney diseases. DM prevalence is increased in individuals with HCV; however, kidney diseases in those with both DM and HCV have not been assessed. Direct acting antiviral agents (DAAs) became available for HCV treatment in 2014; it is unknown if DAAs altered the spectrum of kidney disease in patients with DM and HCV.

Methods: Case review identifying patients with kidney biopsy and clinical history of DM and HCV between 2009-2013 (pre-DAA) and 2016-2020 (post-DAA), excluding kidney transplant, hepatitis B, HIV and inadequate biopsy, identified 245 biopsies. Biopsies were evaluated for diabetic glomerulosclerosis (DGS) class, global and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), other glomerular diseases, interstitial fibrosis/tubular atrophy (IFTA), interstitial nephritis, acute tubular injury and degree of arterial and arteriolar sclerosis. Kidney disease differences in pre-DAA versus post-DAA eras and in mild versus severe DGS were assessed by Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests.

Results: The most common non-DGS lesions were non-collapsing FSGS (41%), HCV-related IgM dominant immune complex glomerulonephritis (IgM-ICGN, 18%), IgA nephropathy (9%), and membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN, 7%). Collapsing FSGS was more common pre-DAA vs post-DAA (8% v 1%, p=0.03). Biopsies from patients with HCV and DM were reduced in post-DAA (0.7%) vs pre-DAA (1.3%) (p< 0.0001). Post-DAA there were less MPGN (2% vs 10%, p=0.02) and more advanced DGS (85% v 61%, p=0.0002), non-collapsing FSGS (57% v 31%, p<0.0001), IFTA (2.0 v 1.6, p=0.0002), and vascular sclerosis (2.1 v 1.6, p<0.0001).

Conclusion: Post-DAA there were reduced biopsies and MPGN, with more severe DGS class, non-collapsing FSGS, IFTA and chronic vascular changes. This suggests a modulating effect of DAAs on HCV-related kidney pathology with DM and chronic changes driving indications for kidney biopsy.
Percepción de estudiantes universitarios respecto al bienestar subjetivo, la inteligencia emocional y el optimismo
Authors: Vera Sagredo Angelica , Molina Farfán Juan , Jiménez Pérez Laura , Jara Coatt Pilar , Constenla Núñez Jaime , Poblete Correa Susana
Published: March 2024

En el presente artículo se abordaron distintos factores socioemocionales y su relación con los Afectos Positivos (AP) y Afectos Negativos (AN) de estudiantes de dos universidades (N = 587) de la región del Biobío, Chile. A partir de una metodología cuantitativa, se examinaron diferencias y relaciones de variables como la inteligencia emocional, la satisfacción de vida, el optimismo y los afectos. Con el propósito de cuantificar las diferencias y relaciones entre las distintas variables examinadas, se procedió a realizar análisis comparativos de diferencias a través de la prueba t, el ANOVA y las correlaciones mediante el coeficiente de Pearson. Además, se realizaron modelos de regresión múltiple con el método de pasos sucesivos o step wise para predecir los afectos de los estudiantes respecto a las distintas variables analizadas. Los principales resultados darían cuenta de que las mujeres presentan mayores puntuaciones en afectos negativos y los hombres en características pesimistas. Además, se evidenciaría una relación significativa entre la inteligencia emocional, el optimismo de las mujeres y los afectos positivos, y en los hombres, se agregaría la satisfacción de vida.
Morphometric aspects of studying the features of age structural
reconstruction of the walls of the prostate arteries
Authors: Hnatjuk Mykhailo , Nesteruk Serhii , Tatarchuk Liudmyla , Monastyrska Nataliia
Published: March 2024

Summary. Age structural changes in the organ artery to date are the
subject of study for morphologists and clinicians. At the same time, the age
features of remodeling of the prostate arteries remain poorly understood.
The aim of the study – morphometric study of the features of age structural
reconstruction of the prostate artery wall. Materials and Methods.
Morphometrically studied the structural age reconstruction of the prostate
artery wall of 45 white rats, which were divided into 2 groups. Group 1
consisted of 15 animals aged 6 months, group 2 – 30 rats aged 24 months.
Euthanasia of animals was performed by bloodletting under conditions of
thiopental anesthesia. Histological micropreparations were made from the
prostate gland, which morphometrically determined the outer and inner
diameters, intima thicknesses, media, adventitia, intimo-medial,
intimo-adventitia, adventitial-medial indices of arteries of small and
medium calibers, relative volumes of damage endotheliocytes. Quantitative
morphological parameters were processed statistically. Results. The age
structural reorganization of the arterial walls of the prostate gland, which
was characterized by an increase in the thickness of the media, adventitia,
atrophy of the intima, violation of the relationship between their
morphometric parameters, increasing the number of damaged endothelial cells.
The detected structural changes dominated in the arteries of small caliber
of the studied organ, which play a major role in ensuring blood supply to
the studied organ. The increase in the relative volume of damaged
endothelial cells in the arterial bed of the prostate in laboratory white
male rats was mainly due to apoptotically altered endotheliocytes, the
number of which increases with age. Conclusions. With age, morphological
changes in the walls of the prostate arteries of laboratory adult white male
rats are characterized by their thickening, narrowing of the lumen, atrophic
processes in the intima, increasing thickness of the media and adventitia,
disruption of relations between them, increasing the relative volume of
damaged endoteliocytes. The severity of age-related structural changes in
the walls of the arterial bed of the prostate dominates in the arteries of
small caliber
Effect of stress on the development of lipid peroxide oxidation in rats
with different motor activity
Authors: Denefil Olha V. , Medynskyi Markian I.
Published: March 2024

Summary. Today in Ukraine and in the world the study of the stress
problem has become especially acute. Firstly, it is connected with sedentary
lifestyle during the COVID-19 pandemic, and secondly, in connection with the
war in Ukraine, in which the whole world is involved. Both causes contribute
to the development of stress, which will lead to further diseases of various
organs and systems. The aim of the study – to evaluate the development of
oxidative stress in the blood of male rats with different motor activity
under stress. Materials and Methods. The experiments performed on Wistar
male-rats of 150– 170 grams, aged 3.5 months. Selection of animals for motor
activity carried out using the method of "white open field". The number of
horizontally intersected squares and vertical posts taken into account. At
high level indicators were referred to were the group of highly active
animals, at low – low-active. Chronic stress in rats was from 1.5 to 3
months of age, the animals kept in cages with limited living space twice.
Slaughter of rats was performed under thiopental-sodium anesthesia, blood
was taken, where the diene conjugates (DC), TBA-active products (TBA-ap),
oxidatively modified proteins (OMP), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase
activity where determined. All animals underwent histological examination of
the heart at the level of both ventricles in Heidenhain-stained
preparations. Apoptosis was predominant in animals with high motor activity
in both control rats and stressed animals. The number of cells that
underwent apoptosis was significantly higher in highly active animals.
Results. Products of lipid peroxidation and OMP, SOD and catalase activity
were dominated in the group of control animals in highly active males,
compared with low-activity. In stressed rats, the DC, TBA-ap, OMP increased,
and were more in highly active rats. Antioxidant activity increased in
stressed animals. SOD and catalase activity were higher in low-activity rats
The obtained data indicate the development of oxidative stress. Conclusion.
The development of stress depends on the motor activitys. Stress causes an
increase of proteins and lipid peroxidation in rats, which is more in high
motor activity. The activity of antioxidants, more in low-activity
individuals increased compensatory in the blood
The role of situation and personal anxiety levels in patients with type
2 diabetes mellitus under stress
Authors: Marushchak Mariya I. , Kuts U.S. , Mokhir Mariia O. , Hashуnska Olena S.
Published: March 2024

Summary. Chronic stress leads to the chronicity of visceral and
autonomic disorders, which indicates the possibility of autonomy of somatic
disorders and justifies the relevance of this study. Depression, eating
disorders and emotional stress make it difficult to control type 2 diabetes
mellitus, which requires the intervention of a nurse. The aim of the study –
to determine the level of anxiety and its effect on glucose concentration in
patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus depending on the action of stress
factors. Materials and Methods. To achieve this goal, 30 female patients
with type 2 diabetes mellitus aged 54–62 were interviewed using the
Spielberger Alarm Scale (STAI) (Spilberger, 1983), in particular the
Ukrainian-language modification of this scale, who applied for medical
assistance to the Starosambir District Hospital. Respondents were
interviewed twice: the first in 2021, the second time after the imposition
of martial law (February 24, 2022), which was considered a stressor.
Results. Under the influence of the stress factor, personal anxiety did not
change, while a high level of situational anxiety prevailed (in 22 patients)
and a low level of situational anxiety was not detected. Analysis of glucose
levels showed its dependence on the level of situational anxiety, in
particular, the highest concentration of glucose was recorded at high levels
of anxiety. In patients with diabetes mellitus under stress, glucose levels
were significantly higher at moderate (10.5 %) and high (12.6 %) levels of
anxiety, according to such data in patients with diabetes without stress.
Conclusions. Moderate levels of situational and personal anxiety predominate
in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Under conditions of stress, a
high level of situational anxiety prevails, while personal anxiety is
virtually unchanged. Under conditions of stress, glucose levels in patients
with diabetes mellitus are likely to be higher at moderate (10.5 %) and high
(12.6 %) levels of anxiety, according to such data in patients with diabetes
without stress. In type 2 diabetes mellitus some dissatisfaction with life
predominates, while the combination of diabetes and stress is characterized
by 40 % of some dissatisfaction and 36.0 % of dissatisfaction with life
Mastering the technology and practical skills of emergency medical care
in response to emergencies in the system of training general practitioners
–family medicine in the context of the formation of professional
competencies at the undergraduate and postg
Authors: Hrynzovskyi Anatoliy M. , Lutsak Olena О. , Kalashchenko Svitlana , Diudina I.O. , Chernenko Lyudmila M.
Published: March 2024

Summary. Doctors of general practice must know the algorithms to
provide emergency medical care (EMC). It’s considered to be an extremely
important part of learning and consolidating EMC practical skills for the
doctors of general practice. Also, necessary to improve the pre-graduate
training level for doctors of general practice with an emphasis on emergency
medical care. The aim of the study – to emphasize the need for qualitative
provision of emergency medical care in case of emergencies by doctors of
general practice on a pre- and postgraduate level. Materials and Methods.
With the help of the analysis of professional publications in recent years,
the main aspects of the need for proper training of general
practitioners-family medicine at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels
were determined. Analytical and comparative methods and information
retrieval methods were also used. Results. It is difficult to overestimate
the undergraduate training of general practitioners in family medicine,
which must begin during training. As the number of emergencies increases, so
does the need to train general practitioners in family medicine and other
primary care professionals. The methods of continuous lifelong learning are
the most suitable for consolidating theoretical knowledge and practical
skills for constant readiness to provide quality medical care in the event
of an emergency. Prospects for further research are aimed at improving the
level of primary care physicians to provide quality medical care in the
event of an emergency. Conclusions. Thus, fully aware of the importance of
primary care physicians to be prepared to provide medical care in
emergencies
Classificação textural de rochas carbonáticas do pré-sal da Bacia de Santos e análise do sistema permoporoso: uma abordagem baseada na interpretação de imagens de tomografia computadorizada de raios X
Authors: Barboza Ana Carolina Carius Lisboa , Landau Luiz
Published: March 2024

Pre-salt lacustrine carbonates remain in evidence for being rocks of high complexity and responsible for the great economic potential of the Santos Basin. Aiming to contribute to studies in this field, the objective of this research was to define the key textures of the carbonate rocks in X-ray computed tomography (CT) images. For the execution of this study, core samples from two wells were used, and the adopted methodology comprises detailed geological description, characterization of the permoporous system, definition of the main textures in CT images, and analysis of the relationship between textures and their permoporous systems. The description of the main properties enabled the definition of six lithofacies and, through the analysis of CT images, a recurring pattern of certain textural attributes in specific lithofacies was identified. Thus, a representative proposal with four textural classes was established: laminated, shrubby, clastiform fragmented, and recrystallized. A direct relationship was observed between certain textures and the progression of diagenetic processes, as well as their corresponding permoporous systems. Finally, the proposed textural classification of CT images applied to Brazilian pre-salt lacustrine carbonate rocks demonstrates effectiveness in standard segmentation performed by expert technicians, enabling rapid identification of reservoir intervals of interest. For future work, it is recommended to employ this classification as an input base for training algorithms using machine learning techniques.
Brain sodium MRI-derived priors support the estimation of epileptogenic zones using personalized model-based methods in epilepsy
Authors: Azilinon Mikhael , Wang Huifang E. , Makhalova Julia , Zaaraoui Wafaa , Ranjeva Jean-Philippe , Bartolomei Fabrice , Guye Maxime , Jirsa Viktor
Published: March 2024

Patients presenting with drug-resistant epilepsy are eligible for surgery aiming to remove the regions involved in the production of seizure activities, the so-called epileptogenic zone network (EZN). Thus the accurate estimation of the EZN is crucial. Data-driven, personalized virtual brain models derived from patient-specific anatomical and functional data are used in Virtual Epileptic Patient (VEP) to estimate the EZN via optimization methods from Bayesian inference. The Bayesian inference approach used in previous VEP integrates priors, based on the features of stereotactic-electroencephalography (SEEG) seizures’ recordings. Here, we propose new priors, based on quantitative 23Na-MRI. The 23Na-MRI data were acquired at 7T and provided several features characterizing the sodium signal decay. The hypothesis is that the sodium features are biomarkers of neuronal excitability related to the EZN and will add additional information to VEP estimation. In this paper, we first proposed the mapping from 23Na-MRI features to predict the EZN via a machine learning approach. Then, we exploited these predictions as priors in the VEP pipeline. The statistical results demonstrated that compared with the results from current VEP, the result from VEP based on 23Na-MRI prior has better balanced accuracy, and the similar weighted harmonic mean of the precision and recall.
Forbidden Books and Royal Horoscopes: the Practice and Censorship of Astrology in Early Modern Portugal
Authors: Ribeiro Luís Campos , Malta Romeiras Francisco
Published: March 2024

In sixteenth-century Lisbon, Aires Vaz and Manuel Rodrigues were summoned to the Inquisition on account of their astrological practices. Records of the trial of Vaz and Rodrigues provide valuable information regarding the training and practice of an astrologer in sixteenth-century Portugal. Prior to this study, however, our knowledge on these matters was scarce and mostly indirect. In this article, we argue that the study of these trial records is crucial to understanding both the practice and the regulation of astrology. Studies on the censorship of astrology usually emphasize the importance of the Roman Index, the Tridentine Rules, and the papal bulls against astrology. By looking at these two trials, this article sheds new light on the application of the Roman rules and allows us to trace the general profile of an astrologer in early modern Portugal.
The Anatomy of Galileo’s Anagram
Authors: Reeves Eileen
Published: March 2024

This essay offers a new reading of Galileo’s most celebrated anagram, incorporating both the prehistory of his late-1610 disclosure concerning the moon-like phases of Venus, and the awkward “leftover letters,” o and y, of the eventual cypher. It argues for a sustained analogy between components of the optical instrument, musical instruments, and particular anatomical structures described by Galen and elaborated by early modern anatomists in Padua. It proposes, finally, the cypher as a calculated response to the Neapolitan magus and playwright Giambattista della Porta’s challenge to Galileo’s claims about the telescope itself.
Nomenclatural problems raised by the recent description of a new anaconda species (Squamata, Serpentes, Boidae), with a nomenclatural review of the genus Eunectes
Authors: Dubois Alain , Denzer Wolfgang , Entiauspe-Neto Omar M. , Frétey Thierry , Ohler Annemarie , Bauer Aaron M. , Pyron Alexander
Published: March 2024

A recent paper proposing taxonomic changes in the South American snake genus Eunectes Wagler, 1830 (anacondas) is analysed. This paper raises an unusually high number of taxonomic and nomenclatural problems. The work does not rely on an explicit species concept, the analysis of the molecular data based on three mitochondrial genes is shown to be unreliable, and the validity of the ‘clades’ proposed in this work is questioned. The nomen proposed for a purported new species is a nomen nudum (nomenclaturally unavailable), and the designation of a ‘lectotype’ for the nominal species Eunectes murinus (Linnaeus, 1758) is invalid. We provide a review of the nomenclatural status of 18 nominal species (including four unavailable ones) once or still now referred to the genus Eunectes, we identify their ‘types’ (nomen-bearing specimens), we designate five lectotypes, which are all specimens figured and briefly described in ancient publications, and we explain the rationale behind this action, which will allow the subsequent designation as neotypes of recently collected specimens associated with precise type localities and molecular data. We show that the generic nomen Eunectes Wagler, 1830 does not apply to the taxonomic genus accommodating anacondas but, this nomen having been used for these giant and spectacular snakes for about 200 years and being well-known even outside the field of taxonomy, we argue that its traditional use should be maintained through an action of the International Commission of Zoological Nomenclature using its plenary power. Finally, we provide various recommendations regarding nomenclatural actions and publications presenting them.
LncRNA VASH1 antisense RNA 1/miR-199a-5p/Programmed Cell Death 4 Axis Regulate Proliferation, Apoptosis, and Cell Cycle in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Progress
Authors: Liu Wei , Tan Xiao , Huang Xing , Tian Bole
Published: March 2024

Our study investigated competitive endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) in pancreatic cancer by sequencing clinical samples, aiming to identify diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets. We conducted transcriptome sequencing on pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) tumor tissues and normal tissues
from five cases. MiR-199a-5p expression was measured in ten cancer-normal tissue pairs using quantitative PCR (qPCR). In vitro, cell lines were transfected with miR-199a-5p mimic, inhibitor, and controls. MiR-199a-5p antagomir was locally injected in a mouse xenograft model. Our findings
revealed a novel regulatory pathway involving VASH1-AS1/miR-199a-5p/PDCD4 in PDAC. Dual-luciferase reporter assays confirmed direct binding between VASH1-AS1 and miR-199a-5p. Inhibiting miR-199a-5p led to significant in vivo tumor growth inhibition. We validated PDCD4’s function
in PDAC formation using overexpression vectors and PDCD4-targeting siRNA. Our research suggests that reduced VASH1-AS1 expression in PDAC up-regulates miR-199a-5p, inhibiting PDCD4 and promoting PDAC formation. The study highlights the pivotal role of miR-199a-5p, VASH1-AS1, and PDCD4 in pancreatic
cancer’s occurrence and progression In vitro and in vivo.
Novel Polypeptide Automated Synthesis Devices: A Review
Authors: Chen Zhu , Zhou Zepeng , Zeng Meimei , Bao Yiliang , Deng Yan , Li Song , Luo Xiaofang , He Nongyue
Published: March 2024

Peptides are a unique class of proteins and one-dimensional biological nanomaterials that play an exceptionally important role in life science and industrial applications. At present, peptide synthesis equipment encounters issues like low synthetic efficiency, challenges in scaling
up, and limited automation. This article provides an overview of the key technologies in peptide synthesis equipment, covering aspects such as peptide information screening, peptide synthesis, and detection. It analyzes and summarizes the principles, methods, and critical challenges of traditional
solid-phase peptide synthesis technology, microwave-assisted solid-phase peptide synthesis technology, and continuous-flow solid-phase peptide synthesis technology. It also discusses microfluidic solid-phase peptide synthesis technology and future research trends, offering insights into the
search for an efficient, high-yield, high-purity, scalable, and intelligent peptide synthesis method, which holds significant research significance.
Wage Dispersion and Team Performance: A Review of 25 Years of Research on Professional Sports
Authors: Gove Michael
Published: March 2024

Since initial studies in the late 1990s, researchers have examined the relationship between wage dispersion and team performance in professional sports. While no definitive consensus has emerged across the sports studied, it is still useful to consider where this literature stands after 25 years of research given its clear importance not just for professional sports, but also for economic decision-making in general. This review of the relevant literature organizes discussion of: (1) the theoretical foundations underlying the wage dispersion–team performance empirical studies, (2) the favorable conditions found in professional sports that provide a unique “laboratory” for researching this topic, (3) conclusions from the empirical literature about the relationship in focus and the different factors in those studies which likely contribute to the varied conclusions, and (4) promising avenues for furthering this line of research in the near future.
Has Secondary Science Program Become an Elite Urban Education Product in the Former Colonized Nation?
Authors: Alam Gazi Mahabubul , Parvin Morsheda
Published: March 2024

A distinct education has become a heretical right for urban elites despite educational equality is an official agenda. This has not only widened the gaps between urban and rural counterparts but also developed discriminations amongst different classes of student within the urban schools. To validate this tenet, the facilities offered by various schools were compared. Yet, whether a particular secondary education program has become an exclusive right essentially for urban elites to deprive others; is not widely explored—an investigation of this study. Educational background and some selective socioeconomic status (SES) of 925,617 students; completed their secondary school certificate from 3,315 schools were collected to make comparison through descriptive analysis of secondary data. Findings note that secondary science education has become a popular program amongst the urban elites. Subsequently, they also perform well in the public examination. Furthermore, discussions suggest that science being an international education demands both formal and informal higher budgets. Hence, a greater success of urban elites in secondary science provision helps them to succeed successively in procuring higher education and thereby in job-market. Thus, a policy intervention is required to ensure an effective implementation of educational equity concept.
The ‘Strategic Relations’ and Its Forms: An Attempt at Conceptualisation
Authors: Abdi Masoud , Mousavi Seyed Abdolazim
Published: March 2024

‘Strategic Relations’ is a concept that has been used extensively in diplomatic and journalistic contexts, but it has been less investigated in scientific studies. Recently, concepts such as ‘strategic alliance’, ‘strategic coalition’, ‘strategic partnership’ and ‘strategic competition’ has been introduced to use as other forms of ‘strategic relationship’. However, the starting point of this study was composed of the following question: what is a strategic relationship and how is the concept related to a strategic alliance, coalition and partnership strategic competition? To answer this question, a descriptive-explanatory study was conducted. The data were collected through desk studies, interviews with experts by Delphi technique and inferential analysis. This study theoretically focused on concepts such as ‘cooperation’, ‘competition’ and ‘strategy’.
Socioeconomic Disparities in Neurodegenerative Disease Mortality: A Population-Based Study among Belgian Men and Women Aged 65 or Older
Authors: Dinneweth Janna , Gadeyne Sylvie
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the association between socioeconomic position (SEP) – in terms of income and education – and mortality from neurodegenerative diseases, that is, dementia, parkinsonism, and motor neuron diseases (MNDs). We calculated age-standardized mortality rates and mortality rate ratios using log linear Poisson regression for different SEP groups, stratified by gender, age-group, and care home residency, utilizing the 2011 Belgian census linked to register data on cause-specific mortality for 2011 to 2016. Mortality was significantly higher in the lowest educational- and income groups. The largest disparities were found in dementia mortality. Income had a strong negative effect on parkinsonism mortality, education a positive effect. We found no significant association between SEP and MND. Our study provides evidence supporting the presence of socioeconomic disparities in mortality due to neurodegeneration. We found a strong negative association between SEP and NDD mortality, which varies between NDD, gender and care home residency.
Book review: N. Sukumar, Caste Discrimination and Exclusion in Indian Universities: A Critical Reflection
Authors: Mhaskar Sumeet
Published: March 2024

N. Sukumar, Caste Discrimination and Exclusion in Indian Universities: A Critical Reflection, Routledge, 2022, 193 pp., ₹13,939, ISBN 978-0367556891 (Hardcover).
Book review: Balasingham Rajendran, Elayaperumal: Vaazhkai Sarithiram [Elayaperumal: Life History] (Tamil)
Authors: Sethuraman Venkatanarayanan
Published: March 2024

Balasingham Rajendran, Elayaperumal: Vaazhkai Sarithiram [Elayaperumal: Life History] (Tamil), Neelam Publications, 2023, 208 pp., ₹300, ISBN 978-93-94591-11-0 (Paperback).
The Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act 2023: A Threat to Forest Lands and Forest Dwellers
Authors: Saxena K. B.
Published: March 2024

In order to check the increasing diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes, the Government of India enacted the Forest Conservation Act (FCA) 1980 which mandated the central government’s prior approval for any such diversions. This Act applied to land notified as forest under the Indian Forest Act 1927 or any other law, and the forest under the control of the forest department. The Supreme Court order in Godavarman Case (1996) expanded the definition of a forest for applicability of FCA to all forests irrespective of recognition, classification, and ownership, and also those conforming to the dictionary meaning of forests. This created operational problems. The 2023 amendments to FCA 1980 exempt certain forest lands from its purview and exclude certain activities from the definition of non-forest purposes. The amended law shrinks the forest cover besides subverting rights granted to forest dwellers under Central laws.
A review of women, power, and rape culture: The politics and policy of under-representation
Authors: Overholser Amber
Published: March 2024

In “Women, power and rape culture: The politics of policy and underrepresentation”, authors Bonnie Stabile and Aubrey Leigh Grant provide a rich overview and detailed research surrounding the reality and politics of harassment, sexual assault, and rape within Legislative, Judicial, and Executive branches, and the avenue to those branches our college campuses during former President Trump’s term. The authors’ unique ability to connect the ways in which these powerful institutions create and exacerbate structural impediment to women’s full participation in places of power provides a much-needed addition to the national conversation about how we can, and should, do better in terms of gender equity and full inclusion in places of power.
Surgical Management of a Large Well-Differentiated Liposarcoma in the Supraclavicular Fossa: A Case Report
Authors: Corona Kassandra , Ali Shahrukh R. , Rossi Nicholas , Ranasinghe Viran , Shabani Sepehr , Qiu Suimin , McKinnon Brian , Coblens Orly
Published: March 2024

Background: Liposarcomas originating in the supraclavicular fossa are exceptionally rare, with only a few documented cases in the medical literature. Methods: We present a unique case involving a remarkably large indolent, atypical lipomatous tumor or well-differentiated liposarcoma situated in the right supraclavicular region, measuring 18 cm × 18 cm × 17 cm. To our knowledge, this represents the largest liposarcoma found in the supraclavicular fossa reported in the literature. This unique case highlights the effective management of a remarkably large supraclavicular liposarcoma through complete surgical resection. Result and Conclusion: Our findings further support the existing consensus that complete surgical removal is often curative for well-differentiated liposarcoma.
The politics of freeports – a place-based analysis of regional economic regeneration in the United Kingdom
Authors: Cotton Matthew , Tyfield David , Gray Nicholas , Yuille Andy
Published: March 2024

Freeports are special economic zones, providing tax and customs benefits aimed at reducing economic friction and encouraging regional development. This place-based policy analysis of UK freeports draws upon qualitative interviews and deliberative workshops with leading industry, government, and civil society stakeholders in the two largest Freeport regions – Teesside and Liverpool. We find first, that purported tax, customs, and planning benefits are deemed less economically important than the agglomeration of innovation industries within a defined geographic boundary. Second, that stronger action on environmental and economic (in)justice is needed – Freeports could be a just transition mechanism if they can avoid capture by a ‘closed shop’ of industry players. Third, Freeports could facilitate cross-sectoral low-carbon economic regeneration, though they are subject to cycles of expectation, hype, and disappointment. We conclude that national policymakers must acknowledge the competing geographic and governance scales emerging within Freeport-hosting communities, as distributive environmental injustices between different locations remain broadly unaddressed. Finally, though cognisant of changes in political leadership on the horizon, we conclude that Freeports will increase the geographic spread of environmental injustice if this model of low-tax and low-regulation economics becomes a political norm within UK regional economic redevelopment strategy.
CAR T-cell Therapy for Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma in Canada: A Cost-Utility Analysis
Authors: Masucci Lisa , Tian Feng , Tully Stephen , Feng Zeny , McFarlane Tom , Chan Kelvin K. W. , Wong William W. L.
Published: March 2024

Background

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy is a novel cell therapy for treating non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The development of CAR T-cell therapy has transformed oncology treatment by offering a potential cure. However, due to the high cost of these therapies, and the large number of eligible patients, decision makers are faced with difficult funding decisions. Our objective was to assess the cost-effectiveness of tisagenlecleucel for adults with relapsed/refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma in Canada using updated survival data from the recent JULIET trial.

Methods

We developed an individual-simulated discrete event simulation model to assess the costs and quality-adjusted life-years (QALY) of tisagenlecleucel compared with salvage chemotherapy. Survival estimates were obtained from a published clinical trial and retrospective analysis. If patients remained progression free for 5 y, they were assumed to be in long-term remission. Costing and utility data were obtained from reports and published sources. A Canadian health care payer perspective was used, and outcomes were modeled over a lifetime horizon. Costs and outcomes were discounted at 1.5% annually, with costs reported in 2021 Canadian dollars. A probabilistic analysis was used, and model parameters were varied in 1-way sensitivity analyses and scenario analyses.

Results

After we incorporated the latest clinical evidence, tisagenlecleucel led to an additional cost of $503,417 and additional effectiveness of 2.48 QALYs, with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of $202,991 compared with salvage chemotherapy. At a willingness-to-pay threshold of $100,000/QALY, tisagenlecleucel had a 0% likelihood of being cost-effective.

Conclusions

At the current drug price, tisagenlecleucel was not found to be a cost-effective option. These results heavily depend on assumptions regarding long-term survival and the price of CAR T. Real-world evidence is needed to reduce uncertainty.

Highlights

For patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma who failed 2 or more lines of systemic therapy, CAR T was not found to be a cost-effective treatment option at a willingness-to-pay threshold of $100,000. These results heavily depend on the expected long-term survival. The uncertainty in the model may be improved using real-world evidence reported in the future.
Non-invasive assessment of response to transcatheter arterial chemoembolization for hepatocellular carcinoma with the deep neural networks-based radiomics nomogram
Authors: Liu Yushuang , Liu Zilin , Li Xinhua , Zhou Weiwen , Lin Lifu , Chen Xiaodong
Published: March 2024

Background

Transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) is a mainstay treatment for intermediate and advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), with the potential to enhance patient survival. Preoperative prediction of postoperative response to TACE in patients with HCC is crucial.

Purpose

To develop a deep neural network (DNN)-based nomogram for the non-invasive and precise prediction of TACE response in patients with HCC.

Material and Methods

We retrospectively collected clinical and imaging data from 110 patients with HCC who underwent TACE surgery. Radiomics features were extracted from specific imaging methods. We employed conventional machine-learning algorithms and a DNN-based model to construct predictive probabilities (RScore). Logistic regression helped identify independent clinical risk factors, which were integrated with RScore to create a nomogram. We evaluated diagnostic performance using various metrics.

Results

Among the radiomics models, the DNN_LASSO-based one demonstrated the highest predictive accuracy (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.847, sensitivity = 0.892, specificity = 0.791). Peritumoral enhancement and alkaline phosphatase were identified as independent risk factors. Combining RScore with these clinical factors, a DNN-based nomogram exhibited superior predictive performance (AUC = 0.871, sensitivity = 0.844, specificity = 0.873).

Conclusion

In this study, we successfully developed a deep learning-based nomogram that can noninvasively and accurately predict TACE response in patients with HCC, offering significant potential for improving the clinical management of HCC.
Dynamic Pricing and Route Guidance: A Multi-Agent System for Effective Parking and Traffic Management
Authors: Hassine Sana Ben , Kooli Elyes , Mraihi Rafaa
Published: March 2024

In a city center that is usually flooded with traffic, finding a parking space is a challenge for most commuters. Searching for parking generates additional urban traffic, increases energy consumption and vehicle emissions, and wastes time. This study examines how parking systems can be used as an effective tool for reducing traffic congestion. It proposes a new, smart approach to parking using real-time dynamic pricing and route guidance in a multi-agent system to better align supply and demand, thereby reducing both congestion and the amount of time spend by drivers searching for parking. To examine the effects of dynamic parking pricing on road traffic, we conducted a multi-agent open-source framework to simulate spatiotemporal distributions of daily individual activity. By extending MATSim, we were able to model parking usage more realistically. We developed several micro-simulation scenarios to evaluate strategy performance for both on-street and off-street parking in the city center of Tunis, Tunisia. The results show that dynamic pricing policies can be used to plan and manage parking areas more efficiently, minimizing the dispersion of parking occupancy lots. Variations in parking prices were shown to increase parking lot vacancies and reduce traffic congestion. Moreover, the system can also generate increased revenue for government and private-sector parking authorities while improving driver satisfaction. Finally, the parking dynamic pricing strategy promises a convenient mobility experience, while increasing efficiency and reducing the negative externalities of urban transportation.
Spectrum and antibiotic resistance in community- and hospital-acquired urinary tract infections among adults: Experience from a large tertiary care center in a developing country
Authors: Herbawi Aya , Abu Taha Adham , Aiesh Banan M. , Sabateen Ali , Zyoud Sa’ed H.
Published: March 2024

Background:

It is important to note that the causative agents and patterns of antibiotic resistance vary between urinary tract infections (UTIs) acquired in the community and those acquired in a hospital setting. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare the types of organisms and patterns of antibiotic resistance in adult patients with community-acquired urinary tract infections (CA-UTIs) and hospital-acquired urinary tract infections (HA-UTIs).

Methods:

Retrospectively, we collected urine samples from patients at An-Najah National University Hospital who experienced nonrecurring urinary tract infections (UTIs) between January 2019 and December 2020. The data were subsequently analyzed using IBM-SPSS® 21.0 software to determine the distribution of microorganisms and evaluate the rates of antibiotic resistance.

Results:

A total of 798 nonrepetitive UTI patients were included in our study, in which more than half of the UTIs occurred in female patients (472; 59.1%), and most of the UTIs were of community origin (611; 76.6%). Both community-acquired urinary tract infections (CA-UTIs) and hospital-acquired urinary tract infections (HA-UTIs) were more common in female patients (45.6% and 13.5%, respectively). Escherichia coli was the most commonly isolated urinary pathogen in both the CA-UTIs and HA-UTIs. The five most common isolated urinary pathogens were E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterococcus faecalis, E. faecium, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Among the isolated bacteria, 28.2% were extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing bacteria, 4.1% were carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE), and 6.5% were vancomycin-resistant Enterococci. The most commonly isolated urinary pathogens from HA-UTIs showed higher resistance rates against all the tested antibiotics except for E. faecium, which showed greater resistance to tetracycline (42.5%) and quinupristin/dalfopristin (17.5%) in CA-UTIs.

Conclusions:

There are similarities in the etiological profiles of CA-UTI and HA-UTI, but the resistance rates are high, and urine culture is essential for the correct treatment of individual cases, even in primary care.
Experimental study of SS316L, Inconel 625, and SS316L-IN625 functionally graded material produced by direct laser metal deposition process
Authors: Mehrabi Omid , Seyedkashi Seyed Mohammad Hossein , Moradi Mahmoud
Published: March 2024

Three types of walls were produced by the direct laser metal deposition (DLMD) process; SS316L, Inconel 625 (IN625), and SS316L-Inconel 625 FGM. The thin walls were deposited on an AISI 4130 austenitic steel substrate in five layers with a length of 2 cm. The solidification behavior, secondary dendrite arm spacing (SADS) value, chemical composition, and hardness of samples were studied. Microstructures were evaluated using optical microscopy (OM) images, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), EDS Line, EDAX, and Map analyses. OM and SEM images showed an acceptable bonding between the layers in all samples. The main solidification was equiaxed dendritic and columnar dendritic in most parts. The growth of dendrites was perpendicular to the substrate. Some dendrites grew epitaxially at the interface of two sequential layers. The standard deviation of SDAS value for SS316L, IN625, and SS316L-IN625 FGM was 0.63, 0.71, and 0.73, respectively. The lowest value of SDAS was obtained in layer one, while the highest value was obtained in layer five of the thin walls. The average SDAS values for SS316L, IN625, and SS316L-IN625 FGM were 4.40, 4.53, and 4.76 µm, respectively. Therefore, the difference between the SDAS values was not significant. EDAX and Map analyses showed that the segregation of Nb and Mo to the dendritic boundary and the formation of eutectic, secondary phases, and brittle Laves phases have occurred. Additionally, the segregation of Nb and Mo to the dendritic boundary in the SS316L-IN625 FGM sample was higher than SS316L and IN625 samples. The microhardness values oscillated significantly and decreased by moving away from the substrate (in the build direction). The microhardness values of different points of the SS316L-IN625 FGM walls were in the range of 218–278 HV. EDS line scan, microstructure, and microhardness analyses indicated the successful fabrication of the SS316L-IN625 FGM by the DLMD process.
Effect of carbon quantum dots’ surface functional groups on tribological performance of polyethylene glycol
Authors: Wu Can , Xia Qiang , Li Shuaishuai , Ni Jing , Yang Haining , Zhao Huijun
Published: March 2024

Nano additives play an important role in improving the lubricating properties and enhancing the bearing capacity of lubricants. However, traditional nano-additives contain harmful elements such as heavy metals, sulfur, phosphorus, which have a non-negligible impact on the green production of modern industry. In this study, four kinds of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) were prepared by hydrothermal synthesis method, namely CQDs, amino modified CQDs (CQDs-NH2), alkyl modified CQDs (CQDs-CH3), and hydroxyl modified CQDs (CQDs-OH). The microscopic morphology, chemical structure and luminescence of CQDs were characterized. The effects of four kinds of CQDs additives on the tribological properties of polyethylene glycol (PEG) were studied. The results showed that compared with PEG, the average friction coefficient and wear volume of PEG containing 3% CQDs-OH decreased by 60.50% and 95.05%, respectively. A composite protective film containing carbon, nitrogen, FeO, Fe2O3 forms on the worn surface, due to the end hydroxyl group of CQDs-OH has good adsorption. In addition, after 3 months of dispersion experiment, the PEG containing 3% CQDs-OH showed the best dispersion stability, and the antifriction effect was still better than that of pure PEG. Therefore, CQDs-OH is a new type of environmentally friendly lubricating additive with great potential.
Effect of ceria–silica-based synthesized catalyst in a CI engine exhaust system operating with plastic oil blend
Authors: Subramanian Premkumar , Gnanasikamani Balaji
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the impact of ceria–silica (Ce–Si)-based catalyst integrated in the catalytic converter (CC) on the compression ignition (CI) engine's exhaust manifold. The synthesis catalyst, Ce–Si was developed with the solvothermal method and aged for 4 h at 55°C. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, thermogravimetric analysis, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy analyses were carried out to conclude the synthesis of the catalyst. The catalyst performance of the CC was tested for the emission behavior of nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbon (HC) and smoke. A custom-built CC was installed on the test engine's exhaust manifold. The synthesis catalyst was installed in the engine exhaust route of the stationary single-cylinder diesel engine to conduct the study. To determine the effect of the synthesis catalyst on the exhaust manifold to test both diesel and DPB (B50) fuel with and without CC. Under maximum load conditions, the presence of CC reduced oxide of nitrogen and carbon monoxide emissions by 23% and 17%, respectively, compared to diesel. The synthesized aerogel catalyst has a low density and a high surface area relative to its volume. Ce–Si aerogel catalyst can be used to improve the conversion efficiency of nitric oxide (NO), unburned hydrocarbon and CO in the three-way CC.