bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anti-Biofilm Effect of Ampicillin-Loaded Poly (Lactic-co-glycolic Acid) Nanoparticles Conjugated with Lysostaphin on Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Norouzi Elahe , Hosseini Seyed Mostafa , Asghari Babak , Mahjoub Reza , Nazarzadeh Zare Ehsan , Shahbazi Mohammad-Ali , Kalhori Fereshte , Arabestani Mohammad Reza
Published: December 2023

Staphylococcus aureus exhibits the capacity to develop biofilms on various surfaces, encompassing both living and nonliving substrates, enabling it to develop resistance against the immune system and antibiotics. Therefore, this bacterium can cause numerous challenges in healthcare and treatment systems. The present study aimed to investigate the ampicillin-loaded PLGA nanoparticles’ effect on preventing the methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) biofilm formation when it is conjugated with lysostaphin. With the use of the double emulsion evaporation technique, nanodrug carriers were created. Physicochemical attributes of the nanoparticles, such as particle size, drug loading, PDI, encapsulation efficiency, zeta potential, efficiency of lysostaphin conjugation, and morphology, were measured. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), well diffusion, and other techniques were used to investigate the effect of the produced nanodrug carrier on strains of S. aureus. A toxicity test was conducted to examine the toxic effects of artificially generated nanomedicines on the L929 fibroblast culture. The nanoparticle average size, zeta potential, PDI, lysostaphin conjugation efficiency and drug loading encapsulation efficiency, and in the optimum PLGA-AMP-LYS (F4) formulation were 301.9 ± 32 nm, 0.261 ± 0.010, −19.2 ± 3.4 mV, 18.916 ± 1.6, and 94.53 ± 3.8, 40%, respectively. After 72 hours, neither the well diffusion nor MIC techniques revealed any discernible variation between ampicillin and nanodrug carriers. The biofilm investigation’s findings, however, indicated that compared to the free drug, the hindering effect of the nanodrug carrier was greater after 72 hours. The toxicity test findings revealed that the synthesized nanodrug had no toxic effects on the cells. Given the excellent efficacy of the nanomedicine carrier established in the present study, applying this technology to combat hospital-acquired infections caused by Staphylococcus bacteria could yield significant benefits in managing staphylococcal infections.
Acute Cheilitis Associated with Oseltamivir after Influenzae A Infection
Authors: Yokoyama Koji , Mamada Mitsukazu
Published: December 2023

Oseltamivir is a neuraminidase inhibitor used to treat acute influenza A or B in adult and pediatric patients. Adverse reactions are usually mild. Here, we report novel side effects associated with oseltamivir. The patient was an 11-year-old girl who developed lower lip cheilitis and stomatitis, after taking oseltamivir. Her symptoms and signs resolved within 36 h of oseltamivir discontinuation. She has clinically fully recovered and has remained well.
Advances and Challenges in Cancer Stem Cells for Onco-Therapeutics
Authors: Alnasser Sulaiman Mohammed
Published: December 2023

Six decades have passed since the foundational recognition of the primary properties of the stem cells. Research on stem cells has since remained at the forefront of efforts to combat a spectrum of diseases, most notably cancer. Despite remarkable progress in medical science, a definitive cure for cancer has remained elusive, spurring the pursuit of diverse therapeutic strategies, among which stem cell therapy is a particularly promising avenue. Moreover, the utilization of cancer stem cells as a therapeutic source holds immense potential for addressing intractable diseases. The strategy of targeting cancer stem cells is beset with challenges, including immune rejection and disease relapse. Additionally, the capacity to inadvertently generate cancer stem cells upon transplantation underscores the critical need to eliminate these cells to ensure the efficacy of cell-based therapies. This paper underscores the pivotal role of cancer stem cells in onco-therapeutics and their potential to aid in early cancer diagnosis. With the proliferation of tissue banks and their collection of malignant tissue types, a renewable source of medications to combat cancer is on the horizon. While cancer stem cell-based therapy presents sophisticated and significant challenges, it offers unprecedented opportunities to extend human life. Continued technological advancements in stem cell therapy promise to provide new insights and refine approaches for cancer treatment, ushering in a new era of hope and innovation in the fight against this formidable disease.
Coagulation Function and Type 2 Diabetic Kidney Disease: A Real-World Observational Study
Authors: Liu Meng-chao , Niu Wen-quan , Wang Yue-fen , Meng Yuan , Zheng Gui-min , Cai Zhen , Shen Cun , Zhu Xiang-gang , Wang Meng-di , Li Jia-lin , Zhao Wen-jing , Wang Yao-xian
Published: December 2023

Objectives. Type 2 diabetic kidney disease (DKD), a chronic microvascular complication of diabetes, may exhibit a complex interrelation with coagulation function. This study is aimed at elucidating the association between coagulation function and DKD. Methods. This was a real-world observational study conducted in Beijing, involving 2,703 participants. All patients with diabetes were classified into two groups, viz., DKD and non-DKD groups. Effect magnitudes are denoted as odds ratios (OR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). To mitigate potential bias in group comparisons, we employed propensity score matching (PSM). Results. After adjusting for variables such as age, gender, systolic blood pressure (SBP), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), triglyceride (TG), c-reactive protein (CRP), platelet (PLT), and serum albumin (sALB), it was discerned that fibrinogen (FIB) (OR, 95% CI,

P

: 1.565, 1.289-1.901, <0.001) and fibrinogen degradation products (FDP) (1.203, 1.077-1.344, 0.001) were significantly correlated with an increased risk of DKD. To facilitate clinical applications, a nomogram prediction model was established, demonstrating commendable accuracy for DKD prediction. Conclusions. Our findings suggest that elevated levels of FIB and FDP serve as potential risk indicators for DKD, and coagulation function may play an important role in the occurrence and development of DKD.
A computational approach for analysis of art compositions
Authors: Özgün Feyza Nur Koçer , Alaçam Sema
Published: December 2023

New approaches emerging from the analysis of artworks with computational tools have the potential to offer different perspectives to artworks recreated in digital environments. This study aims to reveal the implicit relationships between Mondrian compositions with different visual representations. In the scope of the study, compositions completed between 1938 and 1943, which have a strong geometry-color relationship, were first investigated through a pixel-based approach. In the fragmentation method followed, the similarities and differences are expressed with data transferred from pixels to numerical matrices in two different steps: 1. Between the artifacts in pairs, 2. Between an artifact and all the other selected artifacts. The visualization of the matrices was represented by 2D color maps and 3D texture maps. These interpretation styles allow the compositions to be expressed from general to specific and again, from specific to general, by gaining a new meaning.
Assédio em A menina santa
Authors: Aguilar Gonzalo
Published: December 2023

3 de junho de 2015: A marcha "Nem uma a menos", contra a violência de gênero e o feminicídio, é realizada em Buenos Aires e outras oitenta cidades argentinas. Embora o tema já estivesse presente nos debates sociais, a marcha dá uma voz poderosa não só para denunciar a violência contra a mulher, mas também para questionar como as relações afetivas entre homens e mulheres foram historicamente condicionadas. Desde seu primeiro curta-metragem, em 1995, Lucrecia Martel se concentrou na situação das mulheres e em sua percepção do afeto, como já haviam feito María Luisa Bemberg e Raúl de la Torre (cujo filme Heroína é citado em A menina santa). No entanto, Martel apresenta fatores ausentes na obra dos diretores anteriores: a vida provinciana, a violência extrema na família, o assédio sexual em espaços públicos, seus vínculos com a cultura popular e as reticências como forma narrativa do não dito e do oculto. Em 2004, La niña santa foi lançado. Neste artigo, analisarei o filme visto a partir da ruptura produzida pelo movimento 'Nem uma a menos', que transformou a forma como valorizamos, observamos e julgamos as relações afetivas entre homens e mulheres.
Múltiples exposiciones montajes fotográficos en la obra de Annemarie Heinrich
Authors: Pestarino Julieta
Published: December 2023

Este artículo explora diversas opciones de creación que desplegó la fotógrafa germano-argentina Annemarie Heinrich a partir del uso de múltiples exposiciones y montajes fotográficos, analizando también la circulación de estas imágenes, sus perspectivas estéticas y sus posibles alcances en tanto producciones desarrolladas por una fotógrafa mujer. Se propone pensar a dichas exploraciones fotográficas como procedimientos clave del medio para expandir las posibilidades de representación y crear una nueva realidad imaginada; un ámbito para la investigación que le permitió Heinrich expandir su creatividad y cuestionar el estatuto de verdad de la imagen fotográfica, como así también contar una vía para desarrollar su camino como fotógrafa dentro del panorama fotográfico local e internacional.
Inventário do potencial científico das marmitas (weathering pits) no distrito de Fazenda Nova, Pernambuco, Nordeste do Brasil
Authors: Lima Gerlando Rodrigues de , Listo Danielle Gomes da Silva , Guimarães Thaís de Oliveira , Arruda Ítalo Rodrigo Paulino de
Published: December 2023

As marmitas correspondem a depressões originadas nas rochas graníticas e são consideradas como unidade de paisagem por serem geoformas existentes na superfície. Essas geoformas apresentam um valor científico por terem servido no passado como áreas de estocagem de sedimentos e ossos da megafauna pleistocênica. Dessa forma, o objetivo desta pesquisa foi a inventariação das marmitas localizadas no distrito de Fazenda Nova, semiárido pernambucano, buscando estabelecer índices do seu potencial científico para futuras políticas e instrumentos de gestão desses patrimônios em âmbito regional. A primeira etapa do processo de inventário foi organizada por meio de uma ficha que teve o papel de identificar e caracterizar morfologicamente a distribuição das marmitas, e a segunda foi realizada seguindo o método de quantificação para valor científico. Considerando as marmitas apresentadas no contexto do inventário realizado neste estudo, reforça-se a certeza de que esse patrimônio guarda em sua conjuntura a história evolutiva de paisagens geomorfológica e geológica diversas, que são informações pertinentes daquela região, ou podem ir além dessas contribuições, pois esses geomorfossítios têm valor científico que está correlacionado com várias ciências, e seu uso pode fornecer descobertas bastante significativas.
El paseo de San Pedro, Morelia, México: una mirada a sus jardines
Authors: Ettinger Catherine
Published: December 2023

Este texto aporta a la historia de los paseos y alamedas iberoamericanos a través de la revisión detallada del Paseo de San Pedro, hoy Bosque Cuauhtémoc, de la ciudad de Morelia, en México. Hasta ahora la historiografía sobre este espacio se ha enfocado a su origen, su traza y la arquitectura de sus casas de campo. Este trabajo retoma el tema a partir de fuentes que incluyen reglamentos municipales, documentos que resultaron de litigios y traslados de propiedad y fotografía histórica para trazar el carácter de los jardines a través del tiempo. El texto cierra con reflexiones sobre la conservación de los elementos paisajísticos del espacio.
Paisaje cultural y sostenibilidad: una mirada en dos ejemplos latinoamericanos de México y Brasil
Authors: Salomao Eugenia Maria Azevedo
Published: December 2023

Este artículo muestra cómo los conceptos de paisaje cultural y paisaje ur­bano histórico pueden generar mejores actuaciones en la protección de valores culturales, naturales, materiales e inmateriales, de los territo rios culturales y ciudades históricas, bajo la visión de la conservación sostenible. Se presentan ejemplos de dos contextos culturales latinoamericanos: Méx­ico y Brasil. Para el caso mexicano se seleccionó la ciudad de Morelia, en Michoacán, para realizar una lectura desde la mirada de paisaje urbano histórico. En el contexto brasileño, el caso abordado está vinculado al con­cepto de paisaje cultural con el ejemplo de la región del Triângulo Mineiro y Alto Paranaíba. La metodología se fundamenta en la revisión bibliográfica y el trabajo de campo. De los ejemplos seleccionados se observan los cambios sucedidos en el tiempo, diagnosticando los problemas que presentan para una correcta gestión integral ante los riesgos de pérdida de valores cul­turales materiales, inmateriales y naturales. Se concluye con una reflexión sobre la importancia del patrimonio en las sociedades actuales, afirmando la necesidad de visiones holísticas en las políticas de gestión del paisaje cultural y urbano histórico.
Área verde é tudo igual? a importância de se considerar tipologias de áreas verdes urbanas para avaliar seus benefícios em Curitiba
Authors: Viezzer Jennifer , Biondi Daniela , Martini Angeline , Scarano Fabio Rubio
Published: December 2023

Áreas verdes urbanas (AVU) são espaços livres de edificações, com predominância de cobertura vegetal, que geram serviços ecossistêmicos importantes nas cidades, como a melhoria microclimática, a segurança hídrica, e a saúde física e mental dos seus habitantes. Geralmente, as AVU são consideradas como um só componente em estudos sobre a floresta urbana, embora possam ter coberturas do solo e qualidade da vegetação diferentes entre si. Esta pesquisa buscou caracterizar tipologias de áreas verdes usando o índice de vegetação por diferença normalizada (NDVI) para investigar se existe distinção entre elas. Para isso, Curitiba foi selecionada como área de estudo, tendo 18 tipologias de áreas verdes. O NDVI do município, das áreas verdes em conjunto, e de cada tipologia foi calculado com base em imagem LANDSAT-8 e classificado em água, não-vegetação, vegetação gramínea e ou arbustiva, vegetação arbórea esparsa, ou vegetação arbórea densa. Uma análise estatística descritiva e um teste t de igualdade de médias também foram realizados. Os resultados demonstraram diferenças entre a maioria das tipologias, com alta amplitude entre valores mínimos, máximos e médios, estes diferentes entre si na maioria dos casos (72,50%). A proporção ocupada por cada classe de NDVI variou bastante entre as tipologias, principalmente para vegetação gramínea e ou arbustiva (0,00% a 72,22%) e arbórea esparsa (5,26% a 80,00%). Por isso, destaca-se a importância de se conhecer e qualificar a vegetação de diferentes áreas verdes em estudos futuros.
A banana que o diabo amassou: uma fruta que soube bem às figurações dos projetos imperiais?
Authors: Ramos Karina Helena
Published: December 2023

Inspirado pela análise ricoeuriana acerca do mundo narrativo e esteado nas ponderações teóricas dos intelectuais dedicados aos Estudos Culturais em perspectiva pós-colonial, o presente artigo visa, ao interconectar discursos construídos por diferentes campos do saber colonial, demonstrar em que medida as figurações em torno das bananas serviram aos projetos imperiais.
Eunice Caldas: poetisa do amor e do mar
Authors: Cruz Eduardo da , Oliveira da Silva Julie
Published: December 2023

Na polêmica conhecida como Literatura de Sodoma, ficou claro o embate entre o conservadorismo e o discurso homoerótico desafiador nos anos 1920. No Brasil, na mesma época, uma poetisa ousou cantar seus amores por mulheres. Os poemas de Eunice Caldas (1879-1967) reunidos em Anfitrite (1924) são marcados por um lirismo sensual que se opõe aos padrões monogâmicos heteronormativos. Quase 100 anos após seu lançamento, este artigo se propõe a libertar mais uma vez sua voz, trazendo seus versos a novos olhos. Para isso, além de alguns dados biográficos da poetisa, incluindo sua relação com as portuguesas Maria da Cunha (1872-1917) e Ana de Villalobos Galheto (1863-1944), são estabelecidos diálogos com outras escritoras herdeiras de Safo: Judith Teixeira (1888-1959) e Renée Vivien.
Judith Teixeira e Angélica Freitas: o corpo lésbico em dois tempos
Authors: Silva Telma
Published: December 2023

Este artigo tem como intuito analisar as figurações do corpo lésbico em produções das poetisas Judith Teixeira (1880) e Angélica Freitas (1973), cujas primeiras obras estão distanciadas no tempo por mais de 80 anos. Nesse sentido, buscamos pensar as formulações ideológicas em torno das palavras “corpo”, “mulher” e “lésbica” presentes nas poéticas das duas escritoras, tendo em vista que estas mesmo separadas pelo tempo e por culturas bastante diferentes, ainda assim, refletem os interditos sociais impostos ao amor e desejo homoafetivo femininos.
Kota Djogo: The Island that Never Was …
Authors: Ramenzoni Victoria C.
Published: December 2023

There is a large corpus of myths and legends about sea creatures in the maritime world, a record that portrays incredible and wondrous feats, wrecks, calamities, and disasters. In this article, I present an account of the mythological cosmology of the Endenese, a group of fearless seafarers that scoured the Eastern Indonesian seas for over four centuries. By discussing the legend of Kota Djogo, an island that disappeared into the sea in time immemorial, I reconstruct Endenese explanations for luck and uncertainty in a world plagued by volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, tsunamis, and typhoons. Going beyond the legend’s veracity, I build on the study of the narrative to show how symbolic accounts of environmental events can provide important clues to the understanding of ecological disasters. I argue that the indigenous rationalizations of uncertainty present in oral legends and myths can function as coping mechanisms that reconcile communities with the unpredictable and the ambiguous.
Imitation Is the Most Sincere Form of Mockery: Mock Jewish English in Online Extremist Communities
Authors: McCullough Rachel
Published: December 2023

This article examines the use of Mock Jewish English (MJE) among members of the modern far right as a means of perpetuating ideologies centered around antisemitic canards originating from the 19th and 20th centuries. In order to investigate MJE as an act of language crossing, I examine the 900+ million token Unicorn Riot subcorpus of the Corpus of Digital Extremism and Conspiracies (CoDEC). Following this analysis, I describe the linguistic features of MJE when it is used as ventriloquation, specifically the lexical and phonological features employed by the white supremacist parody advice show, Dear Rabbi. In my analysis, I find that these two strategies of MJE are used by members of the far right to spread antisemitic ideologies, further the semantic pejoration of Jewish lexical borrowings, and covertly affiliate themselves with one another in public spaces (via language crossing) or distance themselves from Jewishness (via ventriloquation).
National Action Plans on Business and Human Rights and Protecting Displaced Populations through Human Rights Due Diligence
Authors: Ling Bonny
Published: December 2023

In 2020, Taiwan released its National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights (NAP) to implement the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, with the government committing to release a revised plan by the end of 2024. In parallel was the release of Taiwan’s first National Human Rights Action Plan (NHRAP) in 2022, where refugee protection was expressed as a priority. In this, the government commits to codify legal mechanisms for asylum and clarify application procedures. These developments on business and human rights, on the one hand, and refugee protection, on the other, are significant for the Asia-Pacific because the region hosts the highest number of displaced persons and is the global manufacturing hub. This article examines the nexus between business, human rights and protection for displaced individuals. It provides recommendations on how Taiwan’s next NAP can address refugee protection in line with its human rights protection commitment.
Giffenia koreana sp. nov. (Bacillariophyta): A newly identified epipelic diatom in the tidal flat sediments of Suncheonman Bay, extant for over 1,400 Years
Authors: LEE SANG DEUK , PARK MIRYE , LEE JIN-YOUNG , LEE HOIL , CHOI JUNG-MIN
Published: December 2023

An unknown Giffenia taxon was sampled from the tidal flat sediment of Suncheonman Bay in the Republic of Korea on June 11, 2018. To identify the species, a detailed analysis using light and electron microscopy and a literature review were conducted. The important morphological characteristics—thin lip-shaped sternum, elongated alveoli, and eccentric raphe slit—were found in the species. These features are not present in previously described Giffenia taxa (Giffenia cocconeiformis). The new diatom species is characterized by (1) a slightly undulated valve face, (2) a lip-shaped sternum with a slightly rough surface, (3) numerous elongated alveoli on the valve face, and (4) an eccentric raphe slit. We propose Giffenia koreana sp. nov. as a new epipelic diatom taxon.
A new Liparis species (Orchidaceae, Liparidinae) in L. section Platyglossum
Authors: MARGOŃSKA HANNA B.
Published: December 2023

N/A
New species of genus Brixia Stål, 1856 (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Cixiidae) from Madagascar
Authors: WALCZAK MARCIN , GĘBICKI CEZARY , JUNKIERT ŁUKASZ , TASZAKOWSKI ARTUR
Published: December 2023

A new species of the genus Brixia Stål, 1856 (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha: Cixiidae) from Madagascar is described: B. herczeki Walczak, Gębicki et Junkiert sp. nov. A detailed description of the body morphology (including a description of female genitalia) is provided. Illustrations of genital structures, as well as SEM micrographs, are presented. Additionally, short descriptions of other Brixia species from Madagascar are presented with notes on their biology and ecology.
Teacher-Principal Ethnoracial Matching, Geography, and Novice Teacher Career Outcomes
Authors: Edwards Wesley , Anderson Cornelius Q.
Published: December 2023

Nationally, many school districts are facing a teacher workforce sustainability crisis, and job retention for novice teachers of color is a key area of focus for educational leaders and policymakers. In this study, we draw on nine years of administrative data from Texas K–12 public schools to better understand how teacher-principal ethnoracial matching is associated with patterns of teacher retention and system-exit. Teacher labor markets are geographically small, so we link data from the National Center for Education Statistics containing geographic locale information to explore how the relationship between ethnoracial matching and novice teacher career outcomes varies across urban, suburban, rural, and town school contexts. We find that matching is associated with an increase in the probability of retention and a decrease in the probability of system-exit, with important variation for novice Black and Latinx teachers working in some nonurban school locales.
Comparison of efficacy and safety between PD-1 inhibitors and PD-L1 inhibitors plus platinum-etoposide as first-line treatment for extensive-stage small-cell lung cancer: a multicenter, real-world analysis
Authors: Wang Yanrong , Li Lingling , Hu Jia , Zhao Yan , Yan Huan , Gao Ming , Yang Xuejiao , Zhang Xia , Ma Junxun , Dai Guanghai
Published: December 2023

Background

Immunotherapy in combination with platinum-etoposide (EP) chemotherapy has been approved as a first-line treatment for extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC). However, real-world (RW) data regarding the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in ES-SCLC are lacking. We aimed to assess the differences between programmed death protein 1 (PD-1) inhibitors and programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibitors, both in conjunction with EP chemotherapy, as first-line treatment for ES SCLC.

Methods

We conducted a real-world, multicenter, retrospective cohort, controlled study to compare the prognosis, efficacy, and safety of PD-1 and PD-L1 inhibitors in ES-SCLC patients when used along with chemotherapy. Each patient received up to six cycles of etoposide, carboplatin, or cisplatin combined with ICI drugs, including PD-1 and PD-L1 inhibitors. The primary endpoints were investigator-assessed progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). The secondary endpoints were the investigator-assessed objective response rate (ORR) and disease control rate (DCR) according to the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST, version 1.1).

Results

Between January 2017 and December 2021, 194 patients with ES-SCLC from three clinical centers in a PLA general hospital were included in our study, including 93 patients in the PD-1 group and 101 patients in the PD-L1 group. At the time of data cutoff, progression-free survival in the PD-1 group (median PFS, 6.8 months; 95% CI, 5.3–8.1) was similar to that in the PD-L1 group (median PFS, 6.4 months; 95% CI, 5.5–7.5); the stratified hazard ratio for PFS was 1.12 (95% CI, 0.83–1.53; P = 0.452). The median OS was similar in the PD-1 and PD-L1 groups (15.8 m vs. 17.7 m, P = 0.566); the hazard ratio was 0.90 (95% CI, 0.62–1.30, P = 0.566). The two groups had comparable investigator-assessed confirmed objective response rates (ORR) (76.3% vs. 76.2%). Adverse effect (AE)-related discontinuation occurred in 4 (4.3%) patients in the PD-1 group and 2 (2.0%) patients in the PD-L1 group. Deaths due to AEs of any cause occurred in 2 (2.2%) patients in the PD-1 inhibitor group and 1 (1.0%) patient in the PD-L1 inhibitor group.

Conclusions

Our research revealed that there were no significant differences in efficacy or prognosis between PD-1 inhibitor + EP chemotherapy and PD-L1 inhibitor + EP chemotherapy. The two groups seemed to have comparable safety profiles, but the number of discontinuation or death events was too small to draw a firm conclusion.
Association of GAB1 gene with asthma susceptibility and the efficacy of inhaled corticosteroids in children
Authors: Zhang Yuxuan , Liu Jun , Zhi Yanjie , You Xuan , Wei Bing
Published: December 2023

Asthma is a polygenic disease that may onset during childhood. Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are the main therapy in asthma, although their efficacy varies among individuals. Nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) is an important target of ICS treatment of asthma. Recent research has reported that GRB2 associated binding protein 1 (GAB1) gene may participate in the pathogenesis of asthma by regulating the NF-κB pathway. Therefore, we used the technique of an improved multiplex ligation detection reaction to sequence GAB1 gene and investigated the involvement of Single-nucleotide variants (SNVs) in GAB1 gene in asthma and ICS efficacy in asthmatic children. We found no differences between asthma cases and controls in allele or genotype frequencies of GAB1. Haplotype analysis showed an increased tendency for AGGAGC frequency in asthma patients compared with controls (OR = 2.69, p = 0.018). The percentage of EOS and genotype distribution of rs1397527 were associated (p = 0.007). The EOS percentage was higher in GT genotype when compared to the GG genotype (5.50 vs 3.00, Bonferroni adjusted p = 0.005). After 12-weeks ICS treatment, GAB1 rs1397527 TT and GT genotype carriers had a smaller change in forced expiratory volume in 1 second/forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) than GG carriers (p = 0.009), and rs3805236 GG and AG genotype carriers also had a smaller change in FEV1/FVC than AA carriers (p = 0.025). For ICS response, the frequency of GG genotype of rs1397527 was significantly higher in good responders (p = 0.038). The generalized multifactor dimensionality reduction (GMDR) analysis showed a best significant four-order model (rs1397527, allergen exposure, environmental tobacco smoke exposure, and pet exposure) involving gene-environment interactions (p = 0.001). In summary, we found that GAB1 SNVs were not associated with asthma susceptibility. Haplotype AGGAGC was a risk factor for asthma. GAB1 variants were associated with eosinophils and ICS response in asthmatics. Furthermore, gene-environment interaction was observed.
The accuracy of multiple regression models for predicting the individual risk of recurrent lateral patellar dislocation
Authors: Yu Jiang , Li Yijin , Zhang Kaibo , Yang Runze , Yang Xiaolong , Gong Meng , Long Cheng , Fu Weili
Published: December 2023

Background

Recurrent lateral patellar dislocation (RLPD) poses a significant threat to patients’ quality of life due to knee pain, patellofemoral cartilage damage, and potential traumatic arthritis. Predictive scoring systems have been developed to assess the risk of RLPD; however, their relative accuracy remains uncertain.

Purpose

To investigate the accuracy of the multiple regression models to predict the individual risk of recurrent LPD.

Methods

The Patellar Instability probability calculator (PIP), Recurrent Instability of the Patella Score (RIP), and Patellar Instability Severity Score (PIS) scoring rules were measured in 171 patients with a history of patellar dislocation and 171 healthy individuals. Three prediction models were calculated based on the data to predict the risk of recurrent lateral patellar dislocation. The inter-observer and intra-observer reliability of each measurement parameter was evaluated. The predictive capacity of the three-prediction model was investigated using the receiver operating characteristic curve.

Results

In the case group of 171 patients, PIS accurately predicted recurrent lateral Patella dislocation in 143 patients. RIP was 96, and PIP was 83. The positive predictive values were 92.9%, 64%, and 68% respectively. In the control group of 171 patients, the PIS was validated in 160 patients who would not experience dislocations. RIP was 117, and PIP was 50. The negative predictive values were 85.1%, 60.9%, and 36.2%, respectively. The area under the curve score for the PIS was 0.866, and the RIP was 0.673. the PIP was 0.678.

Conclusion

RIP and PIP did not work to predict LPD. PIS can accurately predict recurrent lateral patellar dislocation. It can aid doctors in making treatment decisions.

Level of evidence

Level III, retrospective comparative study.
Molecular detection of bornavirus in parrots imported to China in 2022
Authors: Zhang Li-Na , Huang Yu-Han , Liu Hao , Li Li-Xia , Bai Xue , Yang Guang-Da
Published: December 2023

Background

Avian bornavirus (ABV) is a neurotropic virus, it has been established as the primary causative agent of proventricular dilatation disease (PDD). However, substantial international trade and transnational trafficking of wild birds occur, potentially enabling these birds to harbor and transmit pathogens to domestic poultry, adversely affecting their well-being. Real-time RT-PCR was employed to detect the presence of PaBV-4 in parrots imported to China in 2022.

Results

In 2022, a total of 47 cloacal swabs from 9 distinct species of parrots were collected at the Wildlife Rescue Monitoring Center in Guangdong, China. The purpose of this collection was to detect the presence of PaBV-4. Using real-time PCR techniques, it was determined that the positive rate of PaBV-4 was 2.12% (1 out of 47) in parrots. The PaBV-4 virus was detected in a Amazona aestiva that had been adopted for one month. Conversely, all other species tested negative for the virus. Subsequently, the whole genome of the PaBV-4 GD2207 strains was sequenced, and the homology and genetic evolution between these strains and previously published PaBV-4 strains on GenBank were analyzed using DNAStar and MEGA7.0 software. The findings revealed that the full-length genome of PaBV-4 consisted of 8915 nucleotides and encoded six proteins. Additionally, it exhibited the highest nucleotide similarity (99.9%) to the GZ2019 strain, which causes death and severe clinical symptoms in Aratinga solstitialis. Furthermore, when compared to other strains of PaBV-4, the GD2207 strain demonstrated the highest amino acid homology with GZ2019. The phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that the GD2207 strain clustered with various strains found in Japanese, American, and German parrots, indicating a close genetic relationship with PaBV-4, but it revealed a distant relationship with PaBV-5 Cockg5 from America. Notably, the GD2207 was closely associated with the GZ2019 strain from Aratinga solstitialis in China.

Conclusion

This study presents the preliminary identification of PaBV-4 in Amazona aestiva parrots, emphasizing its importance as the predominant viral genotype linked to parrot infections resulting from trade into China. Through genetic evolution analysis, it was determined that the GD2207 strain of PaBV-4 exhibits the closest genetic relationship with GZ 2019 (Aratinga solstitialis, China), M14 (Ara macao, USA), AG5 (Psittacus erithacus, USA) and 6758 (Ara ararauna, Germany) suggesting a shared ancestry.
Using digital platforms to promote a healthcare provider community of practice for abortion care in Uganda
Authors: Kaye Dan Kabonge , Kayondo Simon Peter , Nabatanzi Stella Lovina , Nassuuna Susan , Musana Othiniel , Namagembe Imelda , Nsanja John Paul , Kakaire Othman , Ssebadduka Peter , Ssekimpi Cissy
Published: December 2023

Background

A community of practice (CoP) is defined as a group of people who share a concern, set of problems, or a passion about a topic, and who deepen their knowledge and expertise by interacting on an ongoing basis. The paper presents a case study on the design, implementation and management of a CoP. The objective is to share experiences, opportunities, challenges and lessons learnt in using digital platforms for clinical mentorships to establish a CoP that promotes enhanced service provision of abortion care.

Methods

We employed competence-based training and ongoing virtual mentorship for abortion care, employing the abortion harm reduction model, and using several digital platforms to create and nurture community of practice for abortion care. Using the Capability-Opportunity-Motivation for Behavior (COM-B) model and textual data analysis, we evaluated the performance of the CoP as a tool to support abortion care, using data from in-depth interviews and information shared on the platforms. The data was analyzed by thematic analysis using text data analytical approach.

Results

CoPs have much unrealized potential for networking to improve abortion care, as they are more inclusive, interactive and equalizing than typical webinars, yet less expensive and can complement (though not replace) physical mentorships. CoPs’ focus on sharing best practices and creating new knowledge to advance professional practice, faces challenges of maintaining regular interaction on an ongoing basis. CoP members need to share a passion for their practice and mutual trust is key to success.

Conclusion

Though it faced initial challenges of connectivity, and limited interaction, the CoP approach using digital platforms promoted shared experiences, personal connections, communication, collaboration and application of knowledge for improved abortion care.
Critical illness among patients experiencing homelessness: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Sauro K. M. , O’Rielly C. M. , Kersen J. , Soo A. , Bagshaw S. M. , Stelfox H. T.
Published: December 2023

Purpose

To understand the epidemiology and healthcare use of critically ill patients experiencing homelessness compared to critically ill patients with stable housing.

Methods

This retrospective population-based cohort study included adults admitted to any ICU in Alberta, Canada, for a 3-year period. Administrative and clinical data from the hospital, ICU and emergency department were used to examine healthcare resource use (processes of care, ICU and hospital length of stay, hospital readmission and emergency room visits). Regression was used to quantify differences in healthcare use by housing status.

Results

2.3% (n = 1086) of patients admitted to the ICU were experiencing homelessness; these patients were younger, more commonly admitted for medical reasons and had fewer comorbidities compared to those with stable housing. Processes of care in the ICU were mostly similar, but healthcare use after ICU was different; patients experiencing homelessness who survived their index hospitalization were more than twice as likely to have a visit to the emergency department (OR = 2.3 times, 95% CI 2.0–2.6, < 0.001) or be readmitted to hospital (OR = 2.1, 95% CI 1.8–2.4, p < 0.001) within 30 days, and stayed 10.1 days longer in hospital (95% CI 8.6–11.6, p < 0.001), compared with those who have stable housing.

Conclusions

Patients experiencing homelessness have different characteristics at ICU admission and have similar processes of care in ICU, but their subsequent use of healthcare resources was higher than patients with stable housing. These findings can inform strategies to prepare patients experiencing homelessness for discharge from the ICU to reduce healthcare resource use after critical illness.
Evaluating active leprosy case identification methods in six districts of Nepal
Authors: Mahato Ram Kumar , Ghimire Uttam , Lamsal Madhav , Bajracharya Bijay , Poudel Mukesh , Napit Prashnna , Lama Krishna , Dahal Gokarna , Hayman David T. S. , Karna Ajit Kumar , Pandey Basu Dev , Das Chuman Lal , Paudel Krishna Prasad
Published: December 2023

Background

Nepal has achieved and sustained the elimination of leprosy as a public health problem since 2009, but 17 districts and 3 provinces with 41% (10,907,128) of Nepal’s population have yet to eliminate the disease. Pediatric cases and grade-2 disabilities (G2D) indicate recent transmission and late diagnosis, respectively, which necessitate active and early case detection. This operational research was performed to identify approaches best suited for early case detection, determine community-based leprosy epidemiology, and identify hidden leprosy cases early and respond with prompt treatment.

Methods

Active case detection was undertaken in two Nepali provinces with the greatest burden of leprosy, Madhesh Province (40% national cases) and Lumbini Province (18%) and at-risk prison populations in Madhesh, Lumbini and Bagmati provinces. Case detection was performed by (1) house-to-house visits among vulnerable populations (n = 26,469); (2) contact examination and tracing (n = 7608); in Madhesh and Lumbini Provinces and, (3) screening prison populations (n = 4428) in Madhesh, Lumbini and Bagmati Provinces of Nepal. Per case direct medical and non-medical costs for each approach were calculated.

Results

New case detection rates were highest for contact tracing (250), followed by house-to-house visits (102) and prison screening (45) per 100,000 population screened. However, the cost per case identified was cheapest for house-to-house visits [Nepalese rupee (NPR) 76,500/case], followed by contact tracing (NPR 90,286/case) and prison screening (NPR 298,300/case). House-to-house and contact tracing case paucibacillary/multibacillary (PB:MB) ratios were 59:41 and 68:32; female/male ratios 63:37 and 57:43; pediatric cases 11% in both approaches; and grade-2 disabilities (G2D) 11% and 5%, respectively. Developing leprosy was not significantly different among household and neighbor contacts [odds ratios (OR) = 1.4, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.24–5.85] and for contacts of MB versus PB cases (OR = 0.7, 95% CI 0.26–2.0). Attack rates were not significantly different among household contacts of MB cases (0.32%, 95% CI 0.07–0.94%) and PB cases (0.13%, 95% CI 0.03–0.73) (χ2 = 0.07, df = 1, P = 0.9) and neighbor contacts of MB cases (0.23%, 0.1–0.46) and PB cases (0.48%, 0.19–0.98) (χ2 = 0.8, df = 1, P = 0.7). BCG vaccination with scar presence had a significant protective effect against leprosy (OR = 0.42, 0.22–0.81).

Conclusions

The most effective case identification approach here is contact tracing, followed by house-to-house visits in vulnerable populations and screening in prisons, although house-to-house visits are cheaper. The findings suggest that hidden cases, recent transmission, and late diagnosis in the community exist and highlight the importance of early case detection.
Atypical antipsychotic use does not impact weight gain for individuals with extreme anorexia nervosa: a retrospective case–control study
Authors: Bauschka Maryrose , Watters Ashlie , Blalock Dan , Farooq Asma , Mehler Philip , Gibson Dennis
Published: December 2023

Background

There are no U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved medications for the treatment of anorexia nervosa (AN). Various medication classes have been evaluated for benefits in this population, including antipsychotics. Studies focused on use of antipsychotics for assistance with weight restoration in AN produced conflicting results. While current evidence does not suggest that antipsychotic medications can be generally recommended for persons with AN, some individuals might benefit from an antipsychotic medication for anxiety, mood, and the cognitive distortions that accompany the illness. It is well-established that atypical antipsychotics can cause weight gain when taken by other psychiatric populations. This published data can understandably limit the willingness of persons with AN to trial these medications. Given the conflicting results of studies examining antipsychotic-related weight gain in AN, it is currently hypothesized that individuals with extreme anorexia nervosa, restricting type, do not experience the weight gain seen in other psychiatric populations utilizing atypical antipsychotics.

Methods

Two hundred seventy-six individuals with extreme AN were enrolled in this retrospective, case–control study between April 1, 2016 and June 30, 2022 utilizing study-specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Clinical and demographic data, including use of atypical antipsychotics and weights, were retrospectively obtained from chart review. Variables were assessed for normality using univariate statistics. Continuous variables were described using means (M) and standard deviations (SD) or medians and interquartile ranges (IQR) based on normality. Differences in weight gain between cohorts was ascertained via independent samples t-test. P values of < 0.05 were considered statistically significant, and all analyses were completed using SAS Enterprise Guide software version 7.1 (SAS Institute, Cary, NC) and R version 4.3.1 (R Core Team, 2023).

Results

Use of antipsychotics in this population of individuals with extreme AN did not impact the rate of weight gain (M: 1.7 kg/week, SD: 0.9 and 0.8, for cases and controls respectively).

Conclusions

Weight gain is often cited by individuals with AN as a feared side effect of antipsychotic medications. In this study, there was no difference in weight trends for individuals taking atypical antipsychotic medications during the refeeding process compared with individuals who were not.
Childhood immunization uptake determinants in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo: ordered regressions to assess timely infant vaccines administered at birth and 6-weeks
Authors: Boisson-Walsh Alix , Thompson Peyton , Fried Bruce , Shea Christopher Michael , Ngimbi Patrick , Lumande Fidéle , Tabala Martine , Kashamuka Melchior Mwandagalirwa , Babakazo Pélagie , Domino Marisa Elaine , Yotebieng Marcel
Published: December 2023

Background

Despite global efforts to reduce preventable childhood illness by distributing infant vaccines, immunization coverage in sub-Saharan African settings remains low. Further, timely administration of vaccines at birth—tuberculosis (Bacille Calmette–Guérin [BCG]) and polio (OPV0)—remains inconsistent. As countries such as Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) prepare to add yet another birth-dose vaccine to their immunization schedule, this study aims to improve current and future birth-dose immunization coverage by understanding the determinants of infants receiving vaccinations within the national timeframe.

Methods

The study used two ordered regression models to assess barriers to timely BCG and first round of the hepatitis B (HepB3) immunization series across multiple time points using the Andersen Behavioral Model to conceptualize determinants at various levels. The assessment leveraged survey data collected during a continuous quality improvement study (NCT03048669) conducted in 105 maternity centers throughout Kinshasa Province, DRC. The final sample included 2398 (BCG analysis) and 2268 (HepB3 analysis) women-infant dyads living with HIV.

Results

Between 2016 and 2020, 1981 infants (82.6%) received the BCG vaccine, and 1551 (68.4%) received the first dose of HepB3 vaccine. Of those who received the BCG vaccine, 26.3%, 43.5%, and 12.8% received BCG within 24 h, between one and seven days, and between one and 14 weeks, respectively. Of infants who received the HepB3 vaccine, 22.4% received it within six weeks, and 46% between six and 14 weeks of life. Many factors were positively associated with BCG uptake, including higher maternal education, household wealth, higher facility general readiness score, and religious-affiliated facility ownership. The factors influencing HepB3 uptake included older maternal age, higher education level, household wealth, transport by taxi to a facility, higher facility general and immunization readiness scores, and religious-affiliated facility ownership.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that the study participants’ uptake of vaccines was consistent with the country average, but not in a timely manner. Various factors were associated with timely uptake of BCG and HepB3 vaccines. These findings suggest that investment to strengthen the vaccine delivery system might improve timely vaccine uptake and equity in vaccine coverage.
Data-Driven Childhoods: Settler Colonialism and Numeracy in the Boys’ Literature of Francis La Flesche and Francis Rolt-Wheeler
Authors: Soderberg Laura
Published: December 2023

The turn from the nineteenth to the twentieth century marked a time of intensified data collection in the United States focused especially on childhood. This article explores how two children’s narratives, Francis La Flesche’s The Middle Five (1900) and Francis Rolt-Wheeler’s The Boy with the U.S. Census (1911), reflect and respond to this conjunction of boyhood, settler colonialism, and official surveillance. Read together, these texts provide a window into the ways that data collection mediated between the everyday lives of children and the bureaucratic machinations of US colonial governance, marking those data as a site at which governance could be asserted or contested. The colonizing discourse with which these texts engage treats numeracy (rather than the more common literacy) as the threshold for citizenship and reduces Indigenous people, in particular, to the passive objects of measurement and administration. More surprisingly, though, these books also display the role that children’s literature played in placing children themselves in a relationship with numerical data collection, either as enthusiastic and active participants or wary counteragents. While Rolt-Wheeler portrays bureaucracy as an imperialist adventure in which white boys should joyfully partake, La Flesche offers a portrayal of the harm that this incessantly quantitative thinking did to Native children, but he also adds a nuanced critique of the epistemologies underlying such thinking.