bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inclusion of diabetic retinopathy screening strategies in national-level diabetes care planning in low- and middle-income countries: a scoping review
Authors: Curran Katie , Piyasena Prabhath , Congdon Nathan , Duke Lisa , Malanda Belma , Peto Tunde
Published: January 2023

Background

Diabetes is a major public health concern, with approximately 80% of the burden falling on low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the most common microvascular complications of diabetes, and early detection through diabetic eye screening programmes is essential to prevent visual impairment and blindness. Careful planning at a national level is crucial for effective implementation of such programmes.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted, and the protocol was published previously to explain the methods in detail. Data were collected from databases and searches, including grey literature. Furthermore, consultations were conducted with key informants from LMICs.

Results

Lower-middle-income countries (29/50, 58%) and upper-middle-income countries (27/59, 45.8%) are making more progress than low-income countries (4/29, 13.8%) in terms of DR policy planning. However, no identified data for published policies have actually implemented national DR policies. Compared to low-income and lower-middle-income countries, upper-middle-income countries are making the most progress in implementing national diabetic eye screening programmes; however, their progress is still slow, with only 5/59 (8.5%) having such programmes.

Conclusion

There are significant gaps in the literature, with no data reported for 78/138 (56.5%) LMICs. Further research is clearly needed to support and document DR policy development in LMICs.
Extracellular vesicles from mesenchymal stem cells reduce neuroinflammation in hippocampus and restore cognitive function in hyperammonemic rats
Authors: Izquierdo-Altarejos Paula , Cabrera-Pastor Andrea , Martínez-García Mar , Sánchez-Huertas Carlos , Hernández Alberto , Moreno-Manzano Victoria , Felipo Vicente
Published: January 2023

Chronic hyperammonemia, a main contributor to hepatic encephalopathy (HE), leads to neuroinflammation which alters neurotransmission leading to cognitive impairment. There are no specific treatments for the neurological alterations in HE. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) from mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) reduce neuroinflammation in some pathological conditions. The aims were to assess if treatment of hyperammonemic rats with EVs from MSCs restores cognitive function and analyze the underlying mechanisms. EVs injected in vivo reach the hippocampus and restore performance of hyperammonemic rats in object location, object recognition, short-term memory in the Y-maze and reference memory in the radial maze. Hyperammonemic rats show reduced TGFβ levels and membrane expression of TGFβ receptors in hippocampus. This leads to microglia activation and reduced Smad7–IkB pathway, which induces NF-κB nuclear translocation in neurons, increasing IL-1β which alters AMPA and NMDA receptors membrane expression, leading to cognitive impairment. These effects are reversed by TGFβ in the EVs from MSCs, which activates TGFβ receptors, reducing microglia activation and NF-κB nuclear translocation in neurons by normalizing the Smad7–IkB pathway. This normalizes IL-1β, AMPA and NMDA receptors membrane expression and, therefore, cognitive function. EVs from MSCs may be useful to improve cognitive function in patients with hyperammonemia and minimal HE.
Premature ovarian insufficiency in female adolescent and young adult survivors of non-gynecological cancers: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Flatt Sydney B. , Baillargeon Amanda , McClintock Chad , Pudwell Jessica , Velez Maria P.
Published: January 2023

Background

The risk of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is increased in adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors, with the prevalence depending on cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient factors. Prior studies are limited by sample size and type of cancer included. The objective of this study was to assess the risk of POI in female AYA survivors of non-gynecologic cancers, using a population-based approach.

Methods

This population-based retrospective cohort study comprises 21,666 females, 15–39 years old, diagnosed with a single non-gynecologic cancer in Ontario, Canada from 1995 to 2015.

Through health administrative data linkage, participants were followed until their 40th birthday, December 31, 2018, bilateral oophorectomy, loss of health insurance eligibility or death. Each cancer survivor was matched to 5 females who were not diagnosed with cancer (unexposed, n = 108,330). Women with bilateral oophorectomy or a prior menopause diagnosis were excluded. POI was identified through use of the ICD-9 code for menopause (ICD9-627). Modified Poisson regression models were used to calculate the adjusted relative risk (aRR) of POI for AYA cancer survivors compared to unexposed individuals, adjusted for income, parity, age, and immigration status.

Results

The occurrence of POI was higher in survivors of AYA cancer versus unexposed patients (5.4% vs. 2.2%). Survivors of AYA cancer had an increased risk of POI relative to unexposed patients (aRR 2.49; 95% CI 2.32–2.67). Risk varied by type of cancer: breast (4.32; 3.84–4.86), non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (3.77; 2.88–4.94), Hodgkin’s lymphoma (2.37; 1.91–2.96), leukemia (14.64; 10.50–20.42), thyroid (1.26; 1.09–1.46) and melanoma (1.04; 0.82–1.32). Risk varied by age at time of cancer diagnosis, with a higher risk among females diagnosed at age 30–39 years (3.07; 2.80–3.35) than aged 15–29 years (1.75; 1.55–1.98).

Conclusions

AYA survivors of non-gynecologic cancers are at an increased risk of POI, particularly survivors of lymphomas, leukemia, breast, and thyroid cancer. The risk of POI is increased for those diagnosed with cancer at an older age. These results should inform reproductive counseling of female AYAs diagnosed with cancer.
Mediation of PKM2-dependent glycolytic and non-glycolytic pathways by ENO2 in head and neck cancer development
Authors: Gao Lixia , Yang Fan , Tang Dianyong , Xu Zhigang , Tang Yan , Yang Donglin , Sun Deping , Chen Zhongzhu , Teng Yong
Published: January 2023

Background

Enolase 2 (ENO2) is a crucial glycolytic enzyme in cancer metabolic process and acts as a “moonlighting” protein to play various functions in diverse cellular processes unrelated to glycolysis. ENO2 is highly expressed in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) tissues relative to normal tissues; however, its impact and underlying regulatory mechanisms in HNSCC malignancy remain unclear.

Methods

Molecular alterations were examined by bioinformatics, qRT-PCR, western blotting, immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, immunoprecipitation, and ChIP-PCR assays. Metabolic changes were assessed by intracellular levels of ATP and glucose. Animal study was used to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of the ENO inhibitor.

Results

ENO2 is required for HNSCC cell proliferation and glycolysis, which, surprisingly, is partially achieved by controlling PKM2 protein stability and its nuclear translocation. Mechanistically, loss of ENO2 expression promotes PKM2 protein degradation via the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway and prevents the switch of cytoplasmic PKM2 to the nucleus by inactivating AKT signaling, leading to a blockade in PKM2-mediated glycolytic flux and CCND1-associated cell cycle progression. In addition, treatment with the ENO inhibitor AP-III-a4 significantly induces HNSCC remission in a preclinical mouse model.

Conclusion

Our work elucidates the signaling basis underlying ENO2-dependent HNSCC development, providing evidence to establish a novel ENO2-targeted therapy for treating HNSCC.
PCSK9 facilitates melanoma pathogenesis via a network regulating tumor immunity
Authors: Gu Yan , Lin Xiaozeng , Dong Ying , Wood Geoffrey , Seidah Nabil G. , Werstuck Geoff , Major Pierre , Bonert Michael , Kapoor Anil , Tang Damu
Published: January 2023

Background

PCSK9 regulates cholesterol homeostasis and promotes tumorigenesis. However, the relevance of these two actions and the mechanisms underlying PCSK9’s oncogenic roles in melanoma and other cancers remain unclear.

Methods

PCSK9’s association with melanoma was analysed using the TCGA dataset. Empty vector (EV), PCSK9, gain-of-function (D374Y), and loss-of-function (Q152H) PCSK9 mutant were stably-expressed in murine melanoma B16 cells and studied for impact on B16 cell-derived oncogenesis in vitro and in vivo using syngeneic C57BL/6 and Pcsk9−/− mice. Intratumoral accumulation of cholesterol was determined. RNA-seq was performed on individual tumor types. Differentially-expressed genes (DEGs) were derived from the comparisons of B16 PCSK9, B16 D374Y, or B16 Q152H tumors to B16 EV allografts and analysed for pathway alterations.

Results

PCSK9 expression and its network negatively correlated with the survival probability of patients with melanoma. PCSK9 promoted B16 cell proliferation, migration, and growth in soft agar in vitro, formation of tumors in C57BL/6 mice in vivo, and accumulation of intratumoral cholesterol in a manner reflecting its regulation of the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR): Q152H, EV, PCSK9, and D374Y. Tumor-associated T cells, CD8 + T cells, and NK cells were significantly increased in D374Y tumors along with upregulations of multiple immune checkpoints, IFNγ, and 143 genes associated with T cell dysfunction. Overlap of 36 genes between the D374Y DEGs and the PCSK9 DEGs predicted poor prognosis of melanoma and resistance to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy. CYTH4, DENND1C, AOAH, TBC1D10C, EPSTI1, GIMAP7, and FASL (FAS ligand) were novel predictors of ICB therapy and displayed high level of correlations with multiple immune checkpoints in melanoma and across 30 human cancers. We observed FAS ligand being among the most robust biomarkers of ICB treatment and constructed two novel and effective multigene panels predicting response to ICB therapy. The profiles of allografts produced by B16 EV, PCSK9, D374Y, and Q152H remained comparable in C57BL/6 and Pcsk9−/− mice.

Conclusions

Tumor-derived PCSK9 plays a critical role in melanoma pathogenesis. PCSK9’s oncogenic actions are associated with intratumoral cholesterol accumulation. PCSK9 systemically affects the immune system, contributing to melanoma immune evasion. Novel biomarkers derived from the PCSK9-network effectively predicted ICB therapy responses.
Interactive effects of intrinsic capacity and obesity on the KDIGO chronic kidney disease risk classification in older patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Tang Wei-Hua , Yu Teng-Hung , Lee Hui-Lan , Lee Yau-Jiunn
Published: January 2023

Background

Intrinsic capacity (IC) is a novel concept focusing on normal and healthy aging. The effect of IC on the risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) according to KDIGO category in older type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients has rarely been studied. We investigated whether a decline in IC is associated with the risk of CKD according to KDIGO 2012 categories.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study. The exposure variables (IC score and body mass index) and outcome variable (KDIGO categories of the risk of CKD) were collected at the same timepoint. A total of 2482 older subjects with T2DM managed through a disease care program were enrolled. The five domains of IC, namely locomotion, cognition, vitality, sensory, and psychological capacity were assessed. Based on these domains, the IC composite score was calculated. CKD risk was classified according to the KDIGO 2012 CKD definition. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to assess the association between IC score and KDIGO categories of risk of CKD.

Results

The KDIGO CKD risk category increased in parallel with IC score (p for trend < 0.0001). In multivariate analysis, compared to those with an IC score 0, the odds ratio of having a KDIGO moderately increased to very high risk category of CKD was 1.76 (1.31–2.37) times higher for those with an IC score of 2–5. Furthermore, an increased IC score was associated with a higher prevalence of moderate and severe obesity. Moreover, there was a synergistic interaction between IC score and obesity on the KDIGO moderately increased to very high risk category of CKD (synergy index = 1.683; 95% CI 0.630–3.628), and the proportion of the KDIGO moderately increased to very high risk category of CKD caused by this interaction was 25.6% (attributable proportion of interaction = 0.256).

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that IC score may be closely related to the KDIGO moderately increased to very high risk category of CKD. In addition, there may be a synergistic interaction between IC score and obesity, and this synergistic interaction may increase the KDIGO CKD risk stage.
Study of microencapsulated fatty acid antimicrobial activity in vitro and its prevention ability of Clostridium perfringens induced necrotic enteritis in broiler chicken
Authors: Qi Nanshan , Liu Shaobing , Yan Fangquan , Chen Bing , Wu Shilin , Lin Xuhui , Yan Zhuanqiang , Zhou Qingfeng , Liao Shenquan , Li Juan , Lv Minna , Cai Haiming , Hu Junjing , Zhang Jianfei , Gu Youfang , Sun Mingfei
Published: January 2023

Background

Necrotic enteritis (NE) is an infectious intestinal disease caused by Clostridium perfringens (C. perfringens) that is now re-emerging and causing concern within the poultry industry. Previously, the supplementation of antibiotics in feed was the most popular control strategy against C. perfringens. However, with the ban on supplementing growth-promoting antibiotics in livestock feed, alternatives to antibiotics will be essential in order to control necrotic enteritis. A possible alternative to antibiotics could be the medium or long chain fatty acids (MCFA or LCFA) as these are able to destroy cell membranes which in turn results in the death of bacteria. In this study, the in vitro antimicrobial activity of different combinations with microencapsulated caprylic acid (C8: 0), capric acid (C10: 0), lauric acid (C12: 0) and myristic acid (C14: 0) against C. perfringens and in vivo control the NE-inducing C. perfringens in broiler chicken were analyzed.

Results

The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) assay results revealed that three different combinations of medium/long chain fatty acids varied in antimicrobial activities against C. perfringens type A strain (CVCC52, quality control), C. perfringens type A strain (C8-1), C. perfringens type G strain (D25) and C. perfringens type G strain (MZ1). Specifically, combination of C12: 0 and C14: 0 (C12–14) showed the highest antimicrobial activity against the four strains of C. perfringens (MIC ≤ 12.5 μg/mL, MBC = 50 μg/mL), followed by the combination of C10: 0 and C12: 0 (C10–12) (MIC, MBC ≤ 50 μg/mL). The in vivo study, 189 of 818-crossbred chickens that were fed a wheat-based diet and randomly divided into nine groups, with six treatment groups supplemented with either a high dose (1 g/kg) or low dose (0.5 g/kg) of three combinations respectively. The remaining three groups comsisted of a positive group supplement with avilamycin (0.01 g/kg), an infected control and an uninfected control. All chickens were challenged with C. perfringens from day 14 to day 17, except those in the uninfected control group. On day 20, the duodenum and jejunum necrotic lesions scores were calculated and the results showed that there was significant decrease in the C12–C14 high dose group (1.43 ± 0.23, 0.48 ± 0.13) and the C10–12 high dose group (1.52 ± 0.19, 0.48 ± 0.11) compared to the infected group (2.86 ± 0.21, 1.20 ± 0.28).

Conclusions

This finding indicated that dietary microencapsulated C12–C14 and C10–C12 could inhibit the growth of C. perfringens in chickens, which proves is viability to serve as an alternative to antibiotics used for necrotic enteritis caused by C. perfringens.
MORTAR: a rich client application for in silico molecule fragmentation
Authors: Bänsch Felix , Schaub Jonas , Sevindik Betül , Behr Samuel , Zander Julian , Steinbeck Christoph , Zielesny Achim
Published: January 2023

Developing and implementing computational algorithms for the extraction of specific substructures from molecular graphs (in silico molecule fragmentation) is an iterative process. It involves repeated sequences of implementing a rule set, applying it to relevant structural data, checking the results, and adjusting the rules. This requires a computational workflow with data import, fragmentation algorithm integration, and result visualisation. The described workflow is normally unavailable for a new algorithm and must be set up individually. This work presents an open Java rich client Graphical User Interface (GUI) application to support the development of new in silico molecule fragmentation algorithms and make them readily available upon release. The MORTAR (MOlecule fRagmenTAtion fRamework) application visualises fragmentation results of a set of molecules in various ways and provides basic analysis features. Fragmentation algorithms can be integrated and developed within MORTAR by using a specific wrapper class. In addition, fragmentation pipelines with any combination of the available fragmentation methods can be executed. Upon release, three fragmentation algorithms are already integrated: ErtlFunctionalGroupsFinder, Sugar Removal Utility, and Scaffold Generator. These algorithms, as well as all cheminformatics functionalities in MORTAR, are implemented based on the Chemistry Development Kit (CDK).

Graphical Abstract
Are sub-Saharan African national food and agriculture policies nutrition-sensitive? A case study of Ethiopia, Ghana, Malawi, Nigeria, and South Africa
Authors: Asirvatham Roshaany , Demi Suleyman M. , Ezezika Obidimma
Published: January 2023

Background

In sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), malnutrition coupled with rising rates of undernutrition and the burden of overweight/obesity remains one of the most significant public health challenges facing the region. Nutrition-sensitive agriculture can play an important role in reducing malnutrition by addressing the underlying causes of nutrition outcomes. Therefore, we aim to assess the nutrition-sensitivity of food and agriculture policies in SSA and to provide recommendations for identified policy challenges in implementing nutrition-sensitive agriculture initiatives.

Methods

We assessed past and current national policies relevant to agriculture and nutrition from Ethiopia, Ghana, Malawi, Nigeria, and South Africa. Thirty policies and strategies were identified and reviewed after a literature scan that included journal articles, reports, and policy documents on food and agriculture. The policies and strategies were reviewed against FAO’s Key Recommendations for Improving Nutrition Through Agriculture and Food Systems guidelines.

Results

Through the review of 30 policy documents, we found that the link between agriculture and nutrition remains weak, particularly in agriculture policies. The review of the policies highlighted insufficient attention to nutrition and the production of micronutrient-rich foods, lack of strategies to increase farmer market access, and weak multi-sectoral collaboration and capacity building.

Conclusion

Nutrition-sensitive agriculture has received scant attention in previous agricultural and food policies in SSA that were riddled with implementation issues, lack of capacity, and ineffective methods for multi-sector collaboration. Recognition of these challenges are leading countries to revise and create new policies that prioritize nutrition-sensitive agriculture as a key driver in overcoming malnutrition.
Primary upper lumbar hernia repaired by transabdominal preperitoneal approach technique using a self-expanding mesh with a memory-recoil ring, report of a case
Authors: Yamashita Reika , Suwa Katsuhito , Okamoto Tomoyoshi , Eto Ken
Published: January 2023

Background

Upper lumber hernia is a rare entity which can cause obstruction and strangulation. Laparoscopic technique has been considered effective for such hernia repairs; however, there is no report of use of the self-expanding mesh.

Case presentation

A 77-year-old woman visited to our hospital complaining of a bulge of about 5 cm in the left lumbar dorsal region while standing. Abdominal CT and MRI scans showed a fascial defect in the left lumbar abdominal wall and confirmed the presence of a hernia, in which retroperitoneal fatty tissue and the descending colon protruded. Transabdominal preperitoneal repair (TAPP) was performed and the operative findings revealed the hernia orifice, 3 × 2.5 cm in diameter, between two intercostal nerves. To avoid nerve injury or entrapment, the number of mesh fixation was desirable minimum; therefore, a self-expanding mesh with a memory-recoil ring was used. The mesh, 9.5 × 13 cm in diameter, was placed and tacked to the abdominal wall at two points, 1 cm ventral and dorsal to the hernia orifice. The postoperative course was uneventful and no pain or recurrence was observed with follow-up of 6 months.

Conclusion

We herein present a case of upper lumber hernia successfully repaired by TAPP with a self-expanding mesh.
Nutraceutical with a promising oral anticancer effect: in vitro study on apricot oil extract
Authors: Ellithy Marwa Mohamed , Tarek Heba Elsayed , Shalash Heba Nader
Published: January 2023

Background

One of the major threats to human health is malignancy. Treatment regimens usually followed by either chemo or radiotherapy have a wide range of collateral unwanted side effects. Scientists seek alternatives with less or no adverse consequences. Nutraceuticals possess disease-modifying implications in medicine related to Alzheimer’s, cardiovascular, Parkinson’s diseases and malignancy. Apricot oil extract is one such nutraceutical. Its active component is amygdalin, known also as vitamin B.17 or laetrile. It is found in a wide range of vegetable species. Amygdalin is found in high concentration in the kernels of rosaceous fruits such as bitter nuts and apricot kernels. Amygdalin is an aromatic cyanogenic component with a glycoside group. It has a diverse effect on different systems and organs of the body. Recently, it has shown an anticancer potential as it can decompose carcinogenic elements found in the body and kill malignant cells, so it results in cancer growth inhibition. There is a great debate related to the cyanide toxicity of amygdalin. The presented study aims to evaluate apricot oil extract’s impact on squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue, HNO97, while testing its safety on non-tumorigenic oral epithelial cells.

Results

HNO97 cell line viability was markedly decreased. This may be induced by the upregulation of autophagy, apoptosis enhancement as well as cell cycle arrest. Cancer cell migration was also decreased. Apricot oil caused no significant inhibition of normal OEC viability in low doses.

Conclusions

Apricot oil extract from apricot kernel had a notably antitumorigenic impact on oral cancer cells. It may be later subjected to pre- as well as clinical trials.
Exploring trade prospects of Chhurpi and the present status of Chhurpi producers and exporters of Nepal
Authors: Panta Rajendra , Paswan Vinod Kumar , Kanetkar Prajasattak , Bunkar Durga Shankar , Rose Hency , Bakshi Shiva
Published: January 2023

Chhurpi is the hardest cheese known in the world that is typically made in the mountain region of Nepal by coagulating milk with the help of coagulating agents and thereby partly draining the whey from the milk of Yaks, Chauris, Cows, and Buffaloes. Especially hard Chhurpi of Nepal is gaining popularity abroad as a dog food. However, the crosscutting issues of Chhurpi production and trade have remained largely unexplored. Therefore, to increase our understanding and add some information on the Chhurpi enterprise in Nepal, the present study was undertaken to investigate the current status of producers and exporters of Chhurpi and the crosscutting issues of the Chhurpi trade. The study was conducted during the month of July/August (2021) by preparing a different set of questionnaires for exporters and producers, for which five municipalities of Ilam were purposively selected for producers, while Kathmandu was selected for exporters as a study area. The study was performed during COVID-19 pandemic, so a survey was done via telephonic and electronic means at the Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University. After analysis of obtained data, results revealed that exporting companies are making annual average growth of 10–11% from the last five fiscal years resulting in an increment of export. With an increase in annual sales, exporters are earning 10–15% profit of sales which is surging each year. The percentage of annual export decreased recently in the fiscal year 2020/21 due to COVID-19 as demand was low so production was made lower. The study area was dominated by educated, middle-aged respondents who mostly were males. Brahmin and Chhetri were major ethnic groups among producers most of whom are involved in cooperatives. Most of the producers were earning up to NPR 5 lakhs (USD 3817) annually only from Chhurpi. Price variation among wholesalers and retailers was prevalent in the production area. Most producers have reared cattle and their major problem includes feed shortage, disease in animal and breed improvement. Production areas should be made Foot and Mouth Disease free zone by the government through specific laws to further increase export to new countries.
Application of sodium diacetate, potassium lactate and calcium lactate as a microbial decontaminant during processing and storage of the traditional meatballs (rista)
Authors: Mir Sajad Ahmad , Wani Shoib Mohmad , Naseem Zahida , Rizwan Danish
Published: January 2023

The traditional meat products undergo microbial spoilage and lipid oxidation like other meat products because of their suitability as a medium for microbial growth, which in turn affect safety, quality and shelf life. In the case of traditional meat products like rista, ghostabha, kebab and several other products prepared in Kashmiri wazwan, organic acids or their salts have not been used to date. The present study was therefore aimed to evaluate the effect of different organic acid salts and storage conditions on various quality parameters of traditional meat products. Sodium diacetate (0.25%), potassium lactate (2.5%) and calcium lactate (2.5%) were used in three batches of traditional meat products. Sodium diacetate (SDA) treated samples showed lower total plate count (TPC) under refrigerated storage as compared to ambient storage. The SDA-treated sample retained the lowest value for TBARS (1.9 mg MDA/kg) and free fatty acid (3.2%) on the 15th day of refrigerated storage. Significantly (P ≤ 0.05) higher values for L*, a* and b* were maintained by SDA treated samples as compared to control, potassium lactate (PL) and calcium lactate (CL) treated samples under refrigeration conditions throughout the storage period. Organic acid treatment improved the quality attributes of the meat product during the storage period. The use of organic acids as a preservative in these products will help in reducing the use of synthetic agents. Further increase in the shelf life of traditional meat products by application of organic acids will help in their commercialization, marketing and round the year availability.

Graphical Abstract
Combination of chemotherapeutic agents and biological response modifiers (immunotherapy) in triple-negative/Her2( +) breast cancer, multiple myeloma, and non-small-cell lung cancer
Authors: Morse William , Nawaz Haroon , Choudhry Ayesha A.
Published: January 2023

Hypothesis

Biological response modifiers (immunotherapy) in combination to chemotherapy are superior to that of chemotherapy in treatment of breast cancer (triple-negative/HER-2 ( +)), multiple myeloma, and non-small-cell lung cancer.

Methods

This review article consists of a total of eighteen independent randomized controlled clinical trials ranging from phases one to three. Patients were randomly selected for immunomodulatory treatment or chemotherapy and assessed for a specific mutation expression that the immunomodulatory agent targets. Kaplan–Meier plots, swimmer plots, and bar graphs depict overall/progression-free survival, objective response, and clinical response rates. The data collected was assessed by using 95% confidence interval and a p value of 0.05. Patients were treated until disease progression.

Results

Biological response modifiers (immunotherapy) resulted in significantly longer median progression-free survival in PD-L1-positive breast cancer (7.5 months compared to 5.0 months in control group), multiple myeloma (60.7% compared to 26.9% in the daratumumab and placebo groups, respectively), and in non-small-cell lung cancer (median progression-free survival was 10.3 months in the pembrolizumab group compared to 6.0 months in the chemotherapy group): higher complete responses in multiple myeloma (79% and 66% in the elotuzumab and control groups, respectively) and lower disease progression in PD-L1-positive non-small-cell lung cancer (62.1% of pembrolizumab versus 50.3% of chemotherapy patients had no disease progression at 6 months).

Conclusion

Combination biological response modifiers (immunotherapy) and chemotherapy displayed benefit in overall/progression-free survival, response rate, duration of response, clinical benefit, and invasive disease-free survival in triple-negative/HER2-2( +) breast cancer, multiple myeloma, and non-small-cell lung cancer.
Phase-encoding-based least-squares reverse time migration of controlled-order multiples
Authors: Zhang Yanbao , Liu Yike
Published: January 2023

Reverse time migration of controlled-order multiples (RTM-CM) can significantly remove strong crosstalk artifacts in multiples imaging. However, the computational cost is demanding if all pairs of consecutive-order multiples are considered, and an RTM-CM image retains residual crosstalk. To address these issues, we have developed a phase-encoding-based migration approach. This approach first phase-encodes different-order multiples by randomly modifying time shifts and polarity reversals, and then blends the encoded data into supergathers. As a result of using supergathers, migrations of different-order multiples are simultaneously accomplished, which considerably improves computational efficiency. As the simultaneous migration inherits the advantages of RTM-CM and provides good gradients for least-squares migration (LSM), we introduced an iterative LSM to gradually attenuate residual crosstalks in our approach. Numerical experiments on synthetic and field data sets revealed that our approach can significantly enhance imaging quality by suppressing crosstalks, increasing spatial resolutions, and reducing computational costs.
Radial solution of Schrödinger equation with generalized inverse Hulthen and Yukawa potentials in topological defect
Authors: Ahmed Faizuddin
Published: January 2023

In this work, the generalized inverse Yukawa potential is used to explore the radial Schrödinger equation in three dimensions in a topological defect caused by a point-like global monopole. We analyze the quantum system under the influence of the quantum flux field and see that the angular quantum number l is shifted, that is,

which shows an analogue to the Aharonov-Bohm effect. We use a suitable approximation scheme in the centrifugal and reciprocal terms that appear in the radial equation and solve the equation through the parametric Nikiforov-Uvarov method. Afterwards, we consider the potential of the superposition of generalized inverse Hulthen and generalized inverse Yukawa potentials in the quantum system and solve the radial equation using the same technique. The obtained eigenvalue solutions are analyzed for the topological defects of the geometry and the quantum flux and see that the results get shifted in comparison to the flat space case with these potentials.
Use Of Medical English Writing Corpus Among Contemporary Chinese Medical Students: A Needs-Based Analysis
Authors: Su Huanan
Published: January 2023

The current research paper attempts to expose and analyze the general situation and the need for using meforcusersEnglish writing corpus among contemporary Chinese college medical students. At the same time, it makes efforts to uncover how to meet its needs. One hundred medical students participated in the research and were asked to answer questionnaires purposefully designed to collect comprehensive data regarding medical English writing corpus use. The current research results have shown a strong need to use medical English writing corpus among contemporary Chinese college medical students, as well as a severe lack of guidance from medical teachers in Chinese medical universities. Thus, this research further suggests that medical teachers should also guide medical students to meet the needs of selecting proper medical English writing corpus sensibly in their language learning process.
Problem Solving Matematika dengan Menggunakan Barang Bekas dalam Materi Himpunan
Authors: Lestari Eka Dwi
Published: January 2023

Pada saat ini, sudah terlihat peningkatan kemampuan komunikasi yang menekankan kemampuan siswa dalam menyampaikan ide matematika baik secara lisan maupun tulisan, kemampuan komunikasi matematis ini peserta didik dapat dikembangkan melalui proses pembelajaran di sekolah, salah satunya adalah proses pembelajaran matematika. Dengan berbasis preloved atau barang bekas ini, hal inilah penulis yang mendasari penulis menggunakan bahan preloved pada materi himpunan disekolah SMP Ar-rahmaniyah, sehingga siswa mendapatkan pengalaman karena sudah membuat atau melakukan dengan media pembelajaran, maka terlihat hasil pembelajaran siswa menunjukkan adanya peningkatan kemampuan komunikasi sistematis ini dengan menggunakan media tutup botol terlihat hasil dari kuisioner.
RIO DE JANEIRO: UM ESTADO EM BUSCA DA INSTITUCIONALIDADE DA SUA ADMINISTRAÇÃO PÚBLICA
Authors: Tinoco Vinicius Boechat
Published: January 2023

Este artigo tem como objetivo contribuir para o debate sobre o desenvolvimento do estado do Rio de Janeiro tendo como objeto de análise da trajetória histórica das transformações da sua Administração Pública. Considerando o processo recente de modernização administrativa, argumenta-se que, diferentemente de um “choque de gestão”, as mudanças representaram, externamente, a imagem de um Brasil emergente no cenário global, enquanto que internamente serviu de plataforma de circulação das ideias gerencialistas e de intermediação de interesses de diferentes atores. Neste sentido, entende-se que o melhor entendimento sobre o papel da Administração Pública e do planejamento no desenvolvimento estadual deve levar em consideração aspectos históricos da sua formação e o ambiente nacional e internacional de cada período.Palavras-chave: administração pública; desenvolvimento; estado do Rio de Janeiro
DESENVOLVIMENTO BASEADO EM EVIDÊNCIAS: PROPOSTA DE METODOLOGIA PARA A CONSTRUÇÃO DE UMA AGENDA ESTRATÉGICA PARA O ESTADO DO RIO DE JANEIRO
Authors: Fontes Marcela , Santos Guilherme De Oliveira
Published: January 2023

A ausência de um instrumento de planejamento de longo prazo que oriente a formulação de políticas públicas com diretrizes para o desenvolvimento socioeconômico está amalgamada às origens da crise fiscal do Estado do Rio de Janeiro. Mais do que uma situação conjuntural de fundo econômico a realidade fluminense possui profundas questões estruturais. O termo “estrutura produtiva oca” cunhado por Sobral a partir de estudos no âmbito estadual colocam à tona a situação (SOBRAL, 2017). Pretendendo superar esses desafios desde o nível estratégico, apresenta-se a proposta dessa Agenda Estratégica de Estado como fundamento para a elaboração de um Planejamento Estratégico de Estado a se vincular aos demais instrumentos institucionais de médio e curto prazos. A Agenda Estratégica é elaborada com base em premissas, teorias, instrumentos para tratamento de dados e metodologia sistematizados por equipe multidisciplinar em uma proposta congruente. Afastando proposta de caminhos únicos e irrefutáveis constrói-se uma pedra fundamental para que um repertório de combinações seja disponibilizado ao Chefe do Executivo para elaboração do futuro Planejamento Estratégico. Ainda que aderente ao contexto fluminense, o instrumento é um caso de estrutura com possibilidade de replicação a outros entes e um vislumbre de estabelecimento de posição sustentável de destaque do Estado do Rio de Janeiro no cenário nacional e global.
EXPEDIENTE - v22n4
Authors: Mattos Amana
Published: January 2023

Dossiê Psicologia, Política e Sexualidades: Crises, Antagonismos e Agências
Criança como Método como um Recurso para Interrogar Crises, Antagonismos e Agências
Authors: Burman Erica
Published: January 2023

Neste artigo, discuto as "agências" peculiares atribuídas à criança/infância sob o neoliberalismo como um sintoma de suas crises e antagonismos, com foco também nas lutas práticas e solidariedades que tais análises podem promover e oferecer. Especificamente, o tema deste dossiê se alinha com uma abordagem que denominei "Criança como método", que analisa a dinâmica geopolítica e as interseções performadas e resistidas pelas práticas em torno das crianças e da infância. Começarei delineando pontos de partida para a discussão que se segue, tais como a relação entre a criança e o (neo)liberalismo e a criança como um local de consumo/exposição. Descrevo as maneiras pelas quais a criança, como uma cifra para o sujeito europeu do capitalismo moderno tardio, esteve alinhada com o imperialismo, o colonialismo e o capitalismo racial extrativista como uma leitura particular de "Sua Majestade, o Bebê" de Freud. Em seguida, exploro uma série de posições (inclusive afetivas) de sujeito atribuídas às crianças (que, às vezes, as próprias crianças podem ocupar) como uma expressão dos compromissos da "Criança como método" para mapear como a "criança" reflete e contribui para a dinâmica geopolítica transnacional, no serviço de identificar novas possibilidades e relações subjetivas.
Racismo, Trauma Colonial e Agência Crítica: Fórum Estadual de Mulheres Negras do Rio de Janeiro
Authors: França Neto Jacqueline De , Lima Fátima , Oliveira Luiza Rodrigues de
Published: January 2023

A relação entre racismo, subjetividade e o trauma colonial tem, cada vez mais, ocupado os debates no campo dos estudos e pesquisas em Psicologia. Este artigo tem como foco os processos de subjetivação, levando em consideração a relação entre racismo, gênero e o trauma colonial, bem como as agências possíveis que emergem nas vidas das mulheres negras ativistas. Adotando a interseccionalidade enquanto lente epistemológica e metodológica negra, os discursos e práticas de mulheres que fazem parte do Fórum Estadual de Mulheres Negras do Rio de Janeiro assumem aqui o protagonismo, compondo um espaço perpassado por agências políticas de re-existência e reivindicação de falas, escutas e ações de mulheres negras. Pode-se considerar, a partir da atuação no Fórum, que a consciência e a participação em uma instituição coletiva política feminina negra atuam como forças impulsionadoras, tanto em espaços públicos, pressionando o poder do Estado, quanto formando as mulheres negras nos/para espaços microcapilares e cotidianos. Foi possível perceber como a agência das mulheres negras possibilita formas de devolver o trauma colonial ao mundo através de uma mística quilombola coletiva pelo bem viver.
Precarização e Plataformização do Trabalho: Efeitos Entre Homens Trabalhadores do Sexo pela Internet
Authors: Oliveira-Soares Gianluca Augusto , Pizzinato Adolfo
Published: January 2023

O mercado do sexo é amplo e não se resume à prostituição e, em geral, a pesquisa acadêmica é vinculada ao trabalho realizado presencialmente. Com a pandemia de Covid-19 plasmada com as políticas neoliberais vinculadas ao trabalho, houve maior migração das práticas para o ambiente online. Nesse sentido, este artigo almeja refletir sobre as vivências profissionais e histórias de vida dos homens trabalhadores sexuais participantes, correlacionando-as com as políticas de desmonte de direitos sociais e a plataformização do trabalho, majoradas pela pandemia de Covid-19. Realizou-se exploração preliminar do ambiente online do mercado do sexo e, após, procedeu-se às entrevistas narrativas com 5 homens trabalhadores sexuais, que utilizam o Twitter e o OnlyFans para venda de seus serviços. Percebeu-se que a implementação dessas políticas junto com o trabalho plataformizado vulnerabilizam a categoria já marginalizada; que os processos de uso de redes sociais para o trabalho oportunizam o colamento de uma posição influencer dos trabalhadores sexuais, em busca de engajamento; e o mercado sexual transnacional ganha configuração digital, mas mantém recortes raciais e coloniais.
Violência Íntima entre Homens que se Relacionam com Homens - Revisão da Literatura
Authors: Souza Daniel Cerdeira de , Silva Mateus Alves da , Beiras Adriano
Published: January 2023

O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a literatura sobre a violência por parceiro íntimo nas relações entre homens que se relacionam com homens. Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa. Foram analisados 66 artigos publicados entre 2012-2019 em língua inglesa, espanhola e portuguesa nas bases SCIELO, Biblioteca Virtual de Saúde, Redalyc, Dialnet e no Portal Periódicos CAPES. Os dados foram analisados de maneira descritiva, a partir da elaboração de um instrumento chamado de "Protocolo". Os dados possibilitaram a construção de quatro categorias: 1) Masculinidades; 2) Estresse social minoritário; 3) O uso de álcool e outras drogas; 4) Mecanismos utilizados pela vítima para lidar com a VPI, que demonstraram as principais formas de violência íntima entre esse público, fatores socioculturais relacionados às mesmas e os mecanismos que as vítimas utilizaram para lidar com elas. A teoria do estresse social minoritário é aceita como forma de explicar a violência íntima entre homens que se relacionam com homens e isso alia-se a categorias de gênero que denotam como aceitável o uso da violência por homens. A principal forma para lidar com a violência relatada na literatura foi a informal, através de amigos, mostrando uma lacuna nas políticas públicas sobre o tema para pessoas não-heterossexuais.
Costura Político-Clínica por um Cuidado Feminista: Relato de Experiência
Authors: Vasconcelos Michele De Freitas Faria de , Lazzarotto Gislei Domingas Romanzini , Paulon Simone Mainieri , Oliveira Sandra Raquel Santos de
Published: January 2023

Este texto narra composições tecidas em meio à participação em atividades de extensão de duas universidades públicas brasileiras, uma do Sul e outra do Nordeste, que têm ensaiado costurar práticas clínicas com luta feminista numa perspectiva interseccional, entendendo que o sofrimento psíquico de mulheres brasileiras de periferias urbanas e de comunidades tradicionais é analisador e efeito de desigualdades de classe, raça, gênero, região da cidade. O encontro dessas duas iniciativas acabou por fiar uma rede de relações entre universidades e comunidades enlaçadas por projetos criados a partir de demandas prementes dos territórios vivos em que se situam. Tal encontro é atravessado com o tanto que se escuta de violência e de perda numa sociedade que a cada dia amplia um modo necropolítico de governar. Nesse entremeio de encontros atravessados, exercitamos a nomeação de uma clínica feminista e encontramos o exercício político de mulheres articuladas em movimento social. A singularidade e a singularização das mulheres se tecem nos tropeços das funções designadas na história deste país colonizado. Assim, esse alinhavo clínico não se interessa apenas por enredos familiares, mas quer enfrentar formas totalizantes e os códigos dominantes, e, nessa direção, afirma a radicalidade de uma indissociabilidade entre clínica e política.
Environmental perception of regular beach of Itaipu, Niterói, RJ, about the anthropogenic litter after awareness activities
Authors: Póvoa Alain Alves , Imsaurriaga Caroline Souza de Andrade , Derviche Patrick , De Araújo Fábio Vieira
Published: January 2023

Anthropogenic litter is a problem in the marine and coastal environment. Beaches are affected by the presence of litter on their sands. The large amount of litter discarded on beaches is possibly due to the actions of human. In this sense, the aim of this work is to introduce environmental awareness actions among beach goers in relation to the presence of litter in the sand strip to minimize the effects of this problem. This study evaluated the environmental perception of beachgoers at Itaipu, Niterói, RJ, Brazil, in relation to anthropogenic litter through awareness-raising activities. The questionnaire applied to assess the perception and collection of litter in the study area before and after an awareness activity realized to assess the behavior change. Although litter were found on both days, the results showed a significant difference in the values of Kg residues collected/person in the study area between the two days, showing the importance of carrying out environmental awareness activities in solid residues management processes in coastal.
Voltar Ao Passado: O Inimigo Interno Como Ameaça À Segurança Internacional | Back To The Past: The Enemy Within As A Threat To International Security
Authors: Oliveira Moreira Danilo Sorato , Lobato do Carmo Lilian
Published: January 2023

O objetivo do artigo é analisar a utilização do inimigo interno (comunismo) como ameaça à segurança internacional do Brasil no período militar e no período contemporâneo. A metodologia será o uso da comparação histórica e o método de revisão da bibliografia especializada sobre o tema. A hipótese é de que: em momentos de crise da democracia brasileira, o discurso do inimigo interno é utilizado para apaziguar os conflitos internos, ainda que não sejam ameaças reais à segurança internacional do estado. No período militar, a Doutrina de Segurança Nacional (DSN) baseou as ações teóricas, práticas, legais e burocráticas das perseguições aos opositores políticos. No período atual, não há meios e ferramentas para implantar nova DSN, sendo apenas discurso político de forças conservadoras para desviar atenção dos reais problemas nacionais.
O Protagonismo Populista No Século XXI | Populist Protagonism In The 21st Century
Authors: Daher Daniel Guedes Silva , Fagundes Liliane Gobetti
Published: January 2023

Desde a escolha pela saída do Reino Unido da União Europeia através do Brexit, e a vitória de Donald Trump nas eleições presidenciais americanas, ambos em 2016, muito tem se falado sobre a crise democrática e o populismo. O presente trabalho investiga por quê o populismo se tornou protagonista na política do século XXI. Como objetivo principal, propomos uma análise crítica sobre as causas e possíveis implicações de crises democráticas e emergência de lideranças populistas. Partimos de uma abordagem mista com análise do índice Gini em treze democracias para medirmos sua relação com a ascensão de líderes populistas ao poder. Os resultados mostram que a variação do índice Gini não é suficiente para explicar o referido fenômeno. Espera-se que este trabalho coopere para uma reflexão sobre o atual momento vivido por várias democracias no século XXI.Palavras-chave: Democracia; Instituições; Populismo.ABSTRACTSince the choice for the United Kingdom to leave the European Union through the Brexit, and the victory of Donald Trump in the American presidential elections, both in 2016, much has been said about the democratic crisis and the populism. This paper investigates why populism has become a protagonist in the 21st century’s politics. As the main objective, we propose a critical analysis of the reasons and possible implications of democracy’s crises and, the populist’s leadership emergence. We start from a mixed approach with analysis of the Gini index in thirteen democracies to measure its relationship with the rise of populist leaders to power. The results show that the variation of the Gini index is not enough to explain the mentioned phenomenon. It is expected that this work will contribute to a reflection on the current moment experienced by several democracies in the 21st century..Keywords: Democracy; Institutions; Populism. Recebido em: 31/05/2022 | Aceito em: 09/10/2022.