bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Industry Reacts to ‘Forever Chemicals’ Report
Authors: McCarthy-McClean Andrew
Published: November 2024

Andrew McCarthy-McClean reports on a study that identified health harming PFAS in contact lenses
Arthroscopic Bankart repair versus arthroscopic Latarjet for anterior shoulder instability in adolescents
Authors: Delgado Cristina , Martínez-Rodríguez Jose M. , Candura Dario , Valencia María , Martínez-Catalán Natalia , Calvo Emilio
Published: November 2024

Aims

The Bankart and Latarjet procedures are two of the most common surgical techniques to treat anterior shoulder instability with satisfactory clinical and functional outcomes. However, the outcomes in the adolescent population remain unclear, and there is no information regarding the arthroscopic Latarjet in this population. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of the arthroscopic Bankart and arthroscopic Latarjet procedures in the management of anterior shoulder instability in adolescents.

Methods

We present a retrospective, matched-pair study of teenagers with anterior glenohumeral instability treated with an arthroscopic Bankart repair (ABR) or an arthroscopic Latarjet (AL) procedure with a minimum two-year follow-up. Preoperative demographic and clinical features, factors associated with dislocation, and complications were collected. Recurrence, defined as dislocation or subluxation, was established as the primary outcome. Clinical and functional outcomes were analyzed using objective (Rowe), and subjective (Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (WOSI) and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE)) scores. Additionally, the rate of return to sport was assessed.

Results

A total of 51 adolescents were included, of whom 46 (92%) were male, with 17 (33%) in the Latarjet group and 34 (66%) in the Bankart group. The mean age at time of surgery was 18 years (15 to 19). There were no intraoperative complications. At a median follow-up of nine years (IQR 2 to 18), recurrence was observed in 12 patients in the Bankart group (35.3%) and one patient in the Latarjet group (5.9%) (p = 0.023). Satisfactory postoperative outcomes were obtained, with mean Rowe, WOSI, and SANE scores noted at 95 (10 to 100), 325 (25 to 1,975), and 87.5 (10 to 100), respectively. Most patients (29 in the Bankart group (85.3%) and 16 in the Latarjet group (94.1%)) were able to return to sport (p = 0.452).

Conclusion

The ABR and AL procedures both obtain satisfactory clinical and functional outcomes in the treatment of anterior glenohumeral instability in adolescents with a low complication rate. However, the ABR is associated with a significantly higher recurrence rate.

Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(11):1041–1048.
A New Exponential Gompertz Distribution: Theory and Applications
Authors: Alsaggaf Ibtesam Ali
Published: November 2024

With the rise of numerous phenomena that require interpretation and investigation, developing novel distributions has become an important need. This research introduced a new probability distribution called New Exponential Gompertz distribution based on the new exponential-X family to enhance flexibility and improve performance. The most significant benefit of this novel distribution is that its hazard function could be increasing, decreasing and bathtub which reflects the flexibility of the distribution to fit various applications. Furthermore, its density can adopt a variety of symmetric and asymmetric possible shapes. Some of the theoretical characteristics such as quantile, order statistic and moment are provided. The parameter estimates are derived using five different estimation methods including maximum likelihood, ordinary least square, weighted least square, Cramér-von mises and maximum product of spacing methods. Simulation studies are conducted to assess the effectiveness of the five estimation methods. The maximum likelihood estimate shows the most reliable estimate for estimating parameters since it provides the smallest mean square error While the maximum product of spacing method is less efficient. The performance of the proposed distribution is assessed through real-world applications in medical, engineering and physics with competitive distributions. The results indicate that the new distribution efficiently represents various types of data compared to other distributions.
From Patients to Citizens—Narrative Solidarity in Healthcare
Authors: Glos Aleksandra
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT: This article analyzes the meaning of solidarity for bioethics and healthcare. Drawing on the anthropology of embodiment, it argues that solidarity arises upon relations of care for our vulnerable bodies and transforms it into our common democratic project. Its main focus is, therefore, not on distribution, which is the purpose of justice, but on the recognition and democratic inclusion of persons who—due to the vulnerable condition of their bodies—are still deprived of full participation in the public sphere. By reorienting caring relationships around the horizontal axis, solidarity obliges us to treat a person who is cared for not only as a passive recipient of healthcare goods, but as a fellow citizen and a partner in the process of care. It is argued that the model of narrative citizenship, by establishing discursive equality between a patient and a physician, can contribute to greater inclusion of vulnerable individuals into our societies.
Inverted meniscus IOLs reduce image shifts in the periphery compared to biconvex IOLs
Authors: Robles Consuelo , Prieto Pedro M. , Marin-Sanchez Jose M. , Alcon Encarna , Hervella Lucia , Theotoka Despoina , Ginis Harilaos S. , Artal Pablo
Published: November 2024

Intraocular lenses (IOLs) are routinely used to replace cataractous crystalline lenses. Most current models have a biconvex design that reduces optical quality in the periphery since they are optimized only for central vision. Inverted meniscus IOLs are optimized to achieve similar optical performance to phakic eyes in the peripheral retina. Additionally, biconvex IOLs have been predicted to induce image shifts in the peripheral visual field. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether inverted meniscus IOLs produce a more consistent object-to-image mapping on the retina. For this purpose, retinal images before and after IOL implantation were recorded in subjects implanted with either standard biconvex or inverted meniscus IOLs, and the positions of landmarks were compared. The results showed that radial displacement of retinal landmarks increased with eccentricity in biconvex IOLs, as expected, but tended to have a flatter progression with smaller values in patients implanted with inverted meniscus lenses.
Monte Carlo Analysis on Parametric Influence of Beam Quality Degradation in Spectral Beam Combining
Authors: Lee Jong-Won
Published: November 2024

The beam quality of the combined beam in the SBC laser system is critical to its effectiveness. In particular, for military applications, minimizing the degradation of the combined beam quality is essential to counter drones that operate at high speeds and over long distances. The beam quality of incoherently combined beams is highly sensitive to parameter deviations between multiple beams. In this work, using the Monte Carlo method, the degradation of combined beam quality is analyzed based on parametric influences, such as deviations in individual beam quality, beam power, beam size, decentering, and pointing angle. Decentering and beam tilt, primarily caused by free-space optics components like fiber combiner, lens, and grating, significantly contribute to degradation and uncertainty. This study offers a solution to the challenges of measuring parametric influences in practical systems.
RAD52 and ERCC6L/PICH have a compensatory relationship for genome stability in mitosis
Authors: Osia Beth , Merkell Arianna , Lopezcolorado Felicia Wednesday , Ping Xiaoli , Stark Jeremy M.
Published: November 2024

Mammalian RAD52 is a DNA repair factor with strand annealing and recombination mediator activities that appear important in both interphase and mitotic cells. Nonetheless, RAD52 is dispensable for cell viability. To query RAD52 synthetic lethal relationships, we performed genome-wide CRISPR knock-out screens and identified hundreds of candidate synthetic lethal interactions. We then performed secondary screening and identified genes for which depletion causes reduced viability and elevated genome instability (increased 53BP1 nuclear foci) in RAD52-deficient cells. One such factor was ERCC6L, which marks DNA bridges during anaphase, and hence is important for genome stability in mitosis. Thus, we investigated the functional interrelationship between RAD52 and ERCC6L. We found that RAD52 deficiency increases ERCC6L-coated anaphase ultrafine bridges, and that ERCC6L depletion causes elevated RAD52 foci in prometaphase and interphase cells. These effects were enhanced with replication stress (i.e. hydroxyurea) and topoisomerase IIα inhibition (ICRF-193), where post-treatment effect timings were consistent with defects in addressing stress in mitosis. Altogether, we suggest that RAD52 and ERCC6L co-compensate to protect genome stability in mitosis.
Usability of an automated medication dispensation device and adherence dashboard: A study protocol
Authors: Patel Tejal , Laeer Christoph , Darabi Hamed , Lachance Maxime , Anawati Michelle , Chomienne Marie-Hélène
Published: November 2024

Non-adherence to prescribed medication regimens can lead to suboptimal control of chronic health conditions and increased hospitalizations. Older adults may find it particularly challenging to self-manage medications due to physical and cognitive limitations, resulting in medication non-adherence. While automated medication dispensing technologies may offer a solution for medication self-management among older adults, these technologies must demonstrate usability before effectiveness can be investigated and products made available for widespread use. This study will aim to measure usability, workload, and unassisted task completion rates of an automated medication dispenser and medication adherence dashboard on the Medipense portal with older adults and their clinicians, respectively. This study is designed as a convergent parallel mixed-methods observational study with older adults and their clinicians. Usability will be examined with the use of the System Usability Scale (SUS) while NASA Load Index (NASA-TLX) will be utilized to assess the workload of both the device and the adherence monitoring platform. Cognitive walkthrough will be utilized prior to usability testing to identify series of steps required to use the automated dispenser and adherence dashboard. The study will assess the unassisted task completion rates to successfully operate the device. Semi-structured interviews with both types of participants will provide qualitative data with which to comprehensively gauge the automated dispenser user experience. The results of this study will allow us to examine usability of both the automated medication dispensing system and the adherence monitoring dashboard from older adult and health-care provider perspectives. The results of this study will highlight and address the challenges with usability that older adults and health-care providers may face with this device and dashboard. The results of this study will be used to optimize the usability of both the automated medication dispenser and the adherence dashboard. In clinical practice, usability of technology is important to establish prior to full-scale implementation. Products that are not user friendly, add to workload, impact workflow, or are difficult to navigate by both clinicians and population in general may not be adopted. Usability permits an evaluation of the products, to identify problems that must be addressed prior to implementation and to ensure products are useful in clinical practice.
Complete genome sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 strains that were circulating in Uzbekistan over the course of four pandemic waves
Authors: Esonova Gulnoza , Abdurakhimov Abrorjon , Ibragimova Shakhnoza , Kurmaeva Diyora , Gulomov Jakhongirbek , Mirazimov Doniyor , Sohibnazarova Khonsuluv , Abdullaev Alisher , Turdikulova Shahlo , Dalimova Dilbar
Published: November 2024

Since the rapid emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) as a global COVID-19 pandemic affecting millions of people globally, it has become one of the most urgent research topics worldwide to better understand the pathogenesis of COVID-19 and the impact of the harmful variants. In the present study, we conducted whole genome sequencing (WGS) analysis of 110 SARS-CoV-2 genomes, to give more data about the circulation of SARS-CoV-2 variants during the four waves of pandemic in Uzbekistan. The whole genome sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 samples isolated from PCR-positive patients from Tashkent, Uzbekistan, in the period of 2021 and 2022 were generated using next‐generation sequencing approaches and subjected to further genomic analysis. According to our previous studies and the current genome-wide annotations of clinical samples, we have identified four waves of SARS-CoV-2 in Uzbekistan between 2020 and 2022. The dominant variants observed in each wave were Wuhan, Alpha, Delta, and Omicron, respectively. A total of 347 amino acid level variants were identified and of these changes, the most frequent mutations were identified in the ORF1ab region (n = 159), followed by the S gene (n = 115). There were several mutations in all parts of the SAR-CoV-2 genomes but S: D614G, E: T9I, M: A63T, N: G204 R and R203K, NSP12: P323L, and ORF3a(NS3): T223I were the most frequent mutations in these studied viruses. In our previous study, no mutation was found in the envelope (E) protein. In contrast, in our present study, we identified 3 (T9I, T11A and V58F) mutations that made changes to the structure and function of the E protein of SARS-CoV-2. In conclusion, our findings showed that with the emergence of each new variant in our country, the COVID-19 pandemic has also progressed. This may be due to the considerable increase in the number of mutations (Alpha—46, Delta- 146, and Omicron—200 mutations were observed in our samples) in each emerged variant that shows the SARS-CoV-2 evolution.
Intrastromal graft of anterior lens capsule. A substitute for Bowman layer graft transplantation for keratoconus
Authors: Rodríguez-Barrientos Carlos A. , Translateur-Grynspan Amir , Zavala Judith , Valdez Jorge E. , Santaella Gisella , Barraquer-Coll Carmen
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The shortage of donor corneas limits Bowman layer transplantation for keratoconus. In this study, we evaluate the clinical outcome of porcine anterior lens capsule (xenograft) transplantation in the corneal stroma of a rabbit model as substitute for Bowman layer graft that is used in stromal transplantation for advanced keratoconus.

Methods

Transplantation of porcine anterior lens capsule in the corneal stroma was performed in four New Zealand white rabbits through the creation of a stromal pocket. Corneal transparency, central corneal thickness, and topographic characteristics of corneas were evaluated at different time points: pre- (0) and post- (7, 14, 21, and 28) operative days. Additionally, at the end of the study histopathological findings were evaluated.

Results

In comparison to pre-operative day, transplantation of an anterior lens capsule preserved corneal transparency, central corneal thickness, and topographic characteristics remained constant throughout the study period. Histopathological analysis revealed the presence of the anterior lens capsule as a fully integrated lamellar graft without adverse effects in host stroma.

Conclusion

The anterior lens capsule may be useful as a graft for intrastromal corneal trasplantation. Similarly to Bowman layer, anterior lens capsule has mechanical characteristics that facilitate corneal transplantation. In post-transplanted corneas the preservation of transparency, as well as the effect on corneal thickness, and topographic characteristics support the possibility of using anterior lens capsule as a substitute for Bowman layer graft.
Industrial technological advance and the employment demand for China’s labour force—Micro evidence from labour hiring in companies
Authors: Liu Jianmin , Shen Yifeng , Fan Wenye , Wu Xiya
Published: November 2024

Technological advance in industry has complexity, divisibility, systematicity and market selectivity, and companies may generate technological investment expansion and form technological job demand, which may also lead to the occupation of company resources and trigger the replacement of the original jobs. This paper empirically examines the impact of technological advance in industry on the labour employment demand of companies by taking Chinese A-share listed companies as research samples from 2008 to 2022, and finds that: overall technological advance in industry has a suppressive effect on the labour employment demand of companies; The heterogeneity test shows that industrial technological advancement mainly produces inhibitory effects on the labour employment of low-education level employees and production sectors, while it produces incentive effects on the labour employment of high-education level employees and non-production sectors Industrial technological advancement mainly produces job substitution and destructive effects on the labour employment of low-education level employees and production sectors, while it produces incentive effects on the labour employment of high-education level employees and non-production sectors. Mechanism test shows that industrial technological advancement has incentive effects such as technology investment expansion effect and industry chain conduction effect, and also produces inhibitory effects such as enterprise resource occupation effect and employment delay effect. This paper extends the research on the impact of industrial technological advances on the labour employment demand of companies, and provides empirical evidence and policy insights for rationally arranging industrial structural transformation and labour employment decisions of companies in the context of ‘stable employment’.
Does the impact of open innovation depend on contextual factors? A case of the Korean biopharmaceutical industry
Authors: Wang HyeJoo , Song Changhyeon , Shin Kwangsoo
Published: November 2024

Investments in the strategic development of the biopharmaceutical industry are increasing in both developed and developing countries. The biopharmaceutical industry is a technology-intensive industry where securing original technology and intellectual property rights is important. The role of open innovation is becoming more important due to the enormous research and development (R&D) funds and long development period in the early development process, and open innovation (OI) is becoming more important in the corporate world. Many empirical studies have been conducted on the impact on performance. However, the contextual factors that affect the relationship between OI activities and innovation performance have received relatively little attention, and studies from the perspective of developing countries catching up with developed countries are even rarer. Accordingly, this study examined the moderating effects (government R&D support, absorptive capacity, and alliance management capacity) that affect open innovation and innovation performance in the biopharmaceutical industry using data from Korea, one of the most representative latecomer countries in the biopharmaceutical industry. The basic information, OI activities, and patent achievements of Korean biopharmaceutical firms were collected and organized into a database. Samples with missing or incorrect information were excluded, and 527 firms were analyzed. Negative binomial regression analysis was performed considering the characteristics of patent performance, which is the dependent variable, and a time lag of one to two years was assumed considering the time required to generate results. OI in the form of technological cooperation, rather than technology purchasing, has a positive effect on patent performance. Meanwhile, the greater the absorptive capacity and government R&D support, the greater the positive impact of technological cooperation on patent performance. Conversely, the greater the alliance management capacity, the greater the positive impact of technological cooperation. These results indicate that the impact of OI activities on technological innovation performance may vary depending on context.
Artificial intelligence model for predicting sexual dimorphism through the hyoid bone in adult patients
Authors: Ferraz Aline Xavier , Schroder Ângela Graciela Deliga , Gonçalves Flavio Magno , Küchler Erika Calvano , Santos Rosane Sampaio , Zeigelboim Bianca Simone , Pezzin Ana Paula Testa , Taveira Karinna Verissimo , Abuabara Allan , Baratto-Filho Flares , de Araujo Cristiano Miranda
Published: November 2024

The objective of this study was to develop a predictive model using supervised machine learning to determine sex based on the dimensions of the hyoid bone. Lateral cephalometric radiographs of 495 patients were analyzed, collecting the horizontal and vertical dimensions of the hyoid bone, as well as the distance from the hyoid to the mandible. The following algorithms were trained: Logistic Regression, Gradient Boosting Classifier, K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Multilayer Perceptron Classifier (MLP), Decision Tree, AdaBoost Classifier, and Random Forest Classifier. A 5-fold cross-validation approach was used to validate each model. Model evaluation metrics included areas under the curve (AUC), accuracy, recall, precision, F1 score, and ROC curves. The horizontal dimension of the hyoid bone demonstrated the highest predictive power across all evaluated models. The AUC values of the different trained models ranged from 0.81 to 0.86 on test data and from 0.78 to 0.84 in cross-validation, with the random forest classifier achieving the highest accuracy rates. The supervised machine learning model showed good predictive accuracy, indicating the model’s potential for sex determination in forensic and anthropological contexts. These findings suggest that the application of artificial intelligence methods can enhance the accuracy of sex estimation, contributing to significant advancements in the field.
In vitro comparative quality evaluation of different brands of Amlodipine Tablets Commercially available in Jimma Town, South-western Ethiopia
Authors: Milkesa Abera , Hasen Gemmechu , Mohammed Tesfaye , Mekasha Yesuneh Tefera , Dedefo Duresa , Umeta Belachew , Suleman Sultan
Published: November 2024

Background

The incidence of hypertension in persons 25 years of age and older is estimated to be 46% in Africa, where it is still very common. This concerning rate could be explained by the pharmaceutical markets’ accessibility to poor quality antihypertensive drugs. Thus, the purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the quality different brands of Amlodipine Tablets Commercially available in Jimma Town, South-western Ethiopia.

Methods

The quality control test was conducted from August 30, 2019 to February 27, 2020 at Jimma University in the Laboratory of Drug Quality Control (JuLaDQ). The laboratory test was carried out in accordance with WHO inspection guidelines and United States Pharmacopeia. A statistically significant was considered when P<0.05. For further comparison of the in-vitro dissolution profiles of amlodipine tablets, model-independent model-dependent parameters and statistical Dunnetts tests for ensuring bioequivalence were used to further compare the in-vitro dissolution profiles.

Results

With the exception of brand AMD-5 (1/10), the remaining nine (n = 9) brands were within WHO visual inspection criteria. The quality control parameters such as friability, weight variation, identity, assay, and dissolution test were within the United States Pharmacopeia. The model independent parameters (f1, and f2) confirmed that, all generic products were bio-equivalence, and interchangeable with comparator product. The model dependent approaches revealed the Weibull model (AMD-10), the Zero order (AMD-3), and the Korsemeyer-Peppas models were the most effective predictions for the release of the pharmaceutical substance from the dosage form. The Korsemeyer-Peppas model (r2 ≥0.9695) was the best descriptive model for determining the amlodipine drug kinetics from the point of view of all brands examined. The evaluated amlodipine brand tablets were in line with quality standards. The model independent methods confirmed that the generic brand tablets were interchangeable in clinical practice. The tested products follow more than two drug release kinetics.

Conclusion

The study revealed a manifest discrepancy in the dissolution profiles’ releases. Therefore, it is strongly advised to use appropriately designed dissolution profile evaluation methods with various pH values in the dissolution media, as well as to do comprehensive visual inspections. This will make it easier to do a thorough investigation of any potential quality issues that might be related to various generic products available in the pharmaceutical market.
Identification and quantification of the molecular species of bilirubin BDG, BMG and UCB by LC‒MS/MS in hyperbilirubinemic human serum
Authors: Castillo-Castañeda Stephany M. , Rivera-Espinosa Liliana , Gómez-Garduño Josefina , Cordova-Gallardo Jacqueline , Chávez-Pacheco Juan Luis , Méndez-Sánchez Nahum
Published: November 2024

Background and aims

Unconjugated bilirubin (UCB) is a byproduct of the heme group that indicates irregularities in the metabolism of several important biological molecules, such as hemoglobin. UCB is processed by hepatic UGT1A1, which catalyzes its conjugation to the metabolites bilirubin diglucuronide (BDG) and bilirubin monoglucuronide (BMG). The serum concentrations of BDG and BMG may indicate liver injury or dysfunction. The aim of this study was to standardize and validate a method for the identification and simultaneous quantification of BMG, BDG and UCB by LC‒MS/MS.

Methods

Liquid‒liquid extraction allows the separation of UCB, BMG and BDG from the serum of healthy subjects or patients with liver injury. Detection and quantification were performed using an LC‒MS/MS method. Compound separation was achieved with a BEH-C18 column at 40°C. The mobile phase was prepared with 5 mM ammonium acetate (pH 6) and acetonitrile, and a flow gradient was applied.

Results

This is the first study to directly quantify BMG and UCB levels in human serum; no postcalculations or correction factors are needed. However, BDG quantification requires calculations and a correction factor. We identified the molecular species with ionic transitions m/z1+ 585.4 > 299.2 for UCB, 761.3 > 475.3 for BMG, 937.3 > 299.5 for BDG and mesobilirubin 589.4 > 301.3 (IS).

Conclusion

The procedures used in this study allowed the simultaneous identification and quantification of the molecular species of bilirubin, BDG, BMG and UCB. Analysis of the serum levels in patients with hyperbilirubinemia revealed that patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure had elevated levels of these species.
Corneal steep island formation after primary pterygium surgery
Authors: Ha Dong Hee , Kim Kyoung Woo
Published: November 2024

Aims

This study aimed to report corneal steep island (CSI) formation following primary pterygium surgery and to identify preoperative pterygium morphological features that predict the likelihood of CSI.

Methods

A total of 93 eyes from 84 subjects with primary nasal pterygium, who underwent pterygium excision combined with conjunctival-limbal autograft, were included in this retrospective longitudinal cohort study. CSI was defined using anterior segment swept-source optical coherence tomography (AS SS-OCT). Eyes were divided into two groups: those with postoperative CSI formation (Group 1) and those without postoperative CSI (Group 2). We compared postoperative anterior corneal astigmatism (ACA, in diopters [D]) and root mean square (RMS) values of anterior corneal lower-order (LoA) and higher-order aberrations (HoA) between the groups. Baseline clinical severity grades of pterygium based on the pre-established pterygium body morphology and vascularity, ACA, and AS SS-OCT-guided pterygium morphological profiles (horizontal invasion length [HIL, mm], height [μm], thickness (μm), and residual corneal thickness [RCT]/central corneal thickness [CCT] ratio [RCT/CCT]) were also compared.

Results

Postoperative CSI occurred in 26 eyes (28.0%) with a maximum follow-up duration of 22.9±27.4 months. Group 1 exhibited significantly higher postoperative anterior corneal RMS LoA and HoA, as well as the RMS values of the 4th to 6th orders. Although clinical severity grades of pterygium did not differ between groups, baseline ACA was higher in Group 1 (4.56±5.49 D vs. 2.70±3.80 D, P = 0.009). HIL (4.49±0.84 mm vs. 3.77±1.29 mm, P = 0.010) was higher in Group 1, while pterygium height (930.8±84.4 μm vs. 999.3±128.0 μm, P = 0.015) and RCT/CCT ratio (1.07±0.13 vs. 1.14±0.16, P = 0.049) were lower in Group 1.

Conclusions

CSI may develop after primary pterygium surgery, particularly in patients with relatively higher preoperative ACA, longer HIL, and shorter height. Given that CSI can significantly increase both lower and higher-order aberrations, it is crucial to anticipate CSI probability and inform patients before surgery.
Evaluation of the antitrypanosomal activity, cytotoxicity and phytochemistry of red Brazilian propolis
Authors: Alanazi Samyah , Alenzi Naif D.
Published: November 2024

Recently, the growth in the consumption of functional foods with potential nutritional and health benefits revealed rapid progress in phytochemical analysis to assure quality and profile the chemical composition. Bee propolis, a gummy exudate produced in beehives after harvesting from different plant species and showed to contain bioactive secondary metabolites with biological importance. The main goal of the current study is to profile the chemical composition of red propolis samples from the Brazilian stingless bee Tetragonula biroi for the first time using HPLC-UV-ELSD and NMR analysis for assignment of the abundant metabolites’ classes as well as extraction and isolation of the major compounds. Column chromatography and size exclusion chromatography were applied for the purification of the major compounds in red Brazilian propolis. Further, testing the antitrypanosomal and cytotoxic activities against Trypanosoma brucei and human leukemia cell lines (U937) was performed. A total of 29 secondary metabolites were identified as two anthocyanins, 6 flavonoids, 8 isoflavonoids, 10 phenolics, two phenolic acids, and one triterpenoid. Two phenolic compounds were purified and identified using 1D and 2D NMR analysis along with MS analysis as liquiritigenin and calycosin. Red Brazilian propolis FB-3 fraction showed the highest inhibitory activity against T. brucei at 1.6 μg/ml, compared to 12.4 μg/ml of the crude extract. The isolated compounds showed moderate activity with an MIC of 8.5 μg/ml for liquiritigenin and 8.7 μg/ml for calycosin. Moreover, FB-3 fraction and calycosin were showed the potent cytotoxic effect with IC50 = 45.1 and 35.8μg/ml, respectively compared to IC50 = 29.5 μg/ml of the standard diminazen. Hence, red Brazilian propolis is rich source of polyphenols with myriad biological importance. Propolis fractions and purified compounds showed moderate antiprotozoal activity and potent cytotoxic activity against human leukemia cell lines.
Sustained immune activation and impaired epithelial barrier integrity in the ectocervix of women with chronic HIV infection
Authors: Franzén Boger Mathias , Hasselrot Tyra , Kaldhusdal Vilde , Miranda Gisele H. B. , Czarnewski Paulo , Edfeldt Gabriella , Bradley Frideborg , Rexaj Genta , Lajoie Julie , Omollo Kenneth , Kimani Joshua , Fowke Keith R. , Broliden Kristina , Tjernlund Annelie
Published: November 2024

Chronic systemic immune activation significantly influences human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) disease progression. Despite evidence of a pro-inflammatory environment in the genital tract of HIV-infected women, comprehensive investigations into cervical tissue from this region remain limited. Similarly, the consequences of chronic HIV infection on the integrity of the female genital epithelium are poorly understood, despite its importance in HIV transmission and replication. Ectocervical biopsies were obtained from HIV-seropositive (n = 14) and HIV-seronegative (n = 47) female Kenyan sex workers. RNA sequencing and bioimage analysis of epithelial junction proteins (E-cadherin, desmoglein-1, claudin-1, and zonula occludens-1) were conducted, along with CD4 staining. RNA sequencing revealed upregulation of immunoregulatory genes in HIV-seropositive women, primarily associated with heightened T cell activity and interferon signaling, which further correlated with plasma viral load. Transcription factor analysis confirmed the upregulation of pro-inflammatory transcription factors, such as RELA, NFKB1, and IKZF3, which facilitates HIV persistence in T cells. Conversely, genes and pathways associated with epithelial barrier function and structure were downregulated in the context of HIV. Digital bioimage analysis corroborated these findings, revealing significant disruption of various epithelial junction proteins in ectocervical tissues of the HIV-seropositive women. Thus, chronic HIV infection associated with ectocervical inflammation, characterized by induced T cell responses and interferon signaling, coupled with epithelial disruption. These alterations may influence HIV transmission and heighten susceptibility to other sexually transmitted infections. These findings prompt exploration of therapeutic interventions to address HIV-related complications and mitigate the risk of sexually transmitted infection transmission.
Barriers and facilitators to fecal sludge treatment in humanitarian camps: A systematic review of interventions
Authors: Ricau Marine , Kelly Christine , Schmitt Aoife , Lantagne Daniele
Published: November 2024

Treatment of human excreta in humanitarian camps remains rare, leading to environmental and public health risks. Fecal sludge treatment (FST) can help reduce these risks. Our objective was to summarize barriers (hindering implementation) and facilitators (enabling implementation) to FST in humanitarian camps to inform guidance. We completed a systematic review of eight databases and 39 websites in 2020, with an update in April 2023. Documents were included if they assessed FST implementation, in a humanitarian camp setting, with primary data collection of at least output level indicators. Overall, 53 documents, including 75 FST interventions from 12 countries were included. We identified 424 barriers and 435 facilitators in 11 categories: performance (239), operation (146), technical (109), economic (78), environmental (59), spatial (55), social/cultural (47), temporal (44), safety (34), supply (29), and institutional (19). The most common facilitators of FST implementation were: high reduction efficiencies; rapid implementation with available technologies; low capital and operational costs; ease of operation and maintenance; and, achieving effluent discharge standards, effluent reuse, and safe discharge. The most common barriers included under- or over-designed systems with inappropriate materials, needing strong operational supervision and additional treatment, with effluents not meeting discharge standards. Future guidance should focus on recommendations to enable facilitators and hinder barriers. Limitations included that most of the research was from one country (Bangladesh), and in stable contexts. Strengths of this work include a holistic, broad, example-based summary of actual FST implementations in camps in humanitarian settings. This review can be used to develop guidance and checklists for implementing FST in humanitarian camps, and future research needed.
Queer(ing) art, curation and collaboration
Authors: Green Chris , Bilton Dominic
Published: November 2024

This article serves as an introduction to this Special Issue of Art & the Public Sphere on the topics of Queer(ing) art, curation and collaboration. The overall aim of this issue is to explore current trends in queer art, curatorial practice and forms of collaboration. The articles in this issue draw on international perspectives that provide the reader with global approaches to the topics in question. The following editorial is in three parts, the first explores a range of definitions or (un)definitions of queer and queering. Drawing on key theorists to provide context for their usage, we must preface that these definitions are by no means exhaustive but are illustrative of the type of writing available (although authors might also offer their own definition). The second part of the editorial explores a small selection of examples and approaches to queer art, curation and collaboration that we identify as significant. Again, this is not a full list of queer practice ongoing globally, but a small selection of case studies that act as examples that are pertinent to us. The final section of the editorial functions as a question and answer/interview between academic Dr Chris Green and project producer Dominic Bilton about Bilton’s recent curatorial project (Un)Defining Queer, an exhibition held at the Whitworth Art Gallery, Manchester throughout 2023.
Considering care as relational queer praxis
Authors: Munley Thomas
Published: November 2024

In this article, I analyse Nicolas Bourriaud’s Relational Aesthetics and some early critical responses, primarily from art historian Claire Bishop, from two perspectives: firstly, positing care as an alternative mode of assessment for relational work; and secondly, from the queer perspective, exploring the radical implications of the little-discussed queer roots of Bourriaud’s theory, the work of Cuban–American artist Félix González-Torres. From this analysis and a reflection on my personal experience of a relational artwork, I develop a theory of care as relational queer praxis and consider some of its possibilities for the design of contemporary art exhibitions and space.
Scriptwriting with AI: A comparative analysis of ChatGPT and human-crafted short-film scripts: A South African perspective
Authors: Viljoen Aimee
Published: November 2024

Following the release of the ChatGPT chatbot in 2023, by OpenAI, this research project conducted a comparative analysis between a short-film script generated by ChatGPT-3.5 and one crafted by a human scriptwriter, both tasked with creating South African-based scripts focused on African aesthetics and storytelling techniques. While ChatGPT proved efficient in generating scripts, it was primarily programmed by non-Africans and thus cannot produce authentic South African experiences in its narratives. The platform is useful for African filmmakers as a tool to assist them with formatting, structure, enhancing conflict and improving action descriptions. ChatGPT is not autonomous and cannot produce creative work like humans can. It generates scripts based on programmed narrative models such as the three-act structure, the Hero’s Journey and Freytag’s Pyramid. While African writers are encouraged to use these platforms for brainstorming and structuring, the core of the story and its authenticity will come from the human screenwriter.
Global silences on African cinemas: Dialectic of omission in western canons
Authors: Cunha Paulo
Published: November 2024

This article examines the absence of African cinemas in three key fronts of western-led global film canons: cinema history, film criticism and the industry. It reflects on the mechanisms and processes that, invariably, have been creating and replicating in mass form the so-called global film culture that reveals itself in a more or less evident, hegemonic way. It also argues that as world cinemas advance on these three fronts, African cinemas have not made much headway to impact global directions in cinema canons significantly.
To Professor Ken Harrow: Scholar, human rights activist and friend (1943–2024)
Authors: Eke Maureen N.
Published: November 2024

This is an obituary for Professor Kenneth Harrow (Ken as we knew him) who passed away in April 2024. A draft version of the obituary was first delivered at the 49th Annual Conference of the African Literature Association, Louisville, KY, 23–25 May 2024.
The Digital Double Bind: Change and Stasis in the Middle East, Joe F. Khalil and Mohamed Zayani (2023)
Authors: Siyabi Noora Al
Published: November 2024

Review of: The Digital Double Bind: Change and Stasis in the Middle East, Joe F. Khalil and Mohamed Zayani (2023)

Oxford: Oxford University Press, 316 pp.,

ISBN 978-0-19750-862-6, h/bk, $99

ISBN 978-0-19750-863-3, p/bk, $27.95

ISBN 978-0-19750-865-7, e-book, $18.99
Editorial
Authors: Grove Jaleen
Published: November 2024

Introduction and outline of Volume 11 issue 1 of the Journal of Illustration, a Special Issue (one of two) on the theme of ‘Illuminating the Non-Representable’, a research series initiated by Professor Emerita Hilde Kramer, University of Bergen.
Speculative illustration: From thinking with images to speculative visuality
Authors: Adamczewski Tymon
Published: November 2024

The article aims to address the challenge that the current wide-ranging and multifaceted planetary crisis poses to representation and to ways of thinking about it. It focuses on examining the role of illustration and images in selected recent theoretical works, especially in the ones concerned with the relationship between humans and the environment. What is surveyed is the terrain of selected theoretical texts associated with New Materialisms and Speculative Realism (including Object-Oriented Ontology), as both orientations, respectively, argue for a recognition of a vibrant sense-making agency of matter and for thinking that does away with privileging specifically human ways of interacting with reality. More importantly, these discourses often rely on visual arts and artistic projects or interventions as important means to make their point and to illustrate the ‘non-representable’.
Entrevista com Vera Alves Cepêda
Authors: Souza José Augusto Marques de , Leandro Maycon
Published: November 2024

Essa entrevista com Vera Cepêda, realizada em 2024, visa discutir a democracia e desenvolvimento, através de uma análise crítica e reflexiva sobre a trajetória política brasileira para o processo de construção do projeto nacional de modernidade e do Estado Democrático de Direito, especialmente dos desdobramentos do ultraliberalismo e ascensão de governos de extrema direita em regimes democráticos.  Nesse sentido, a entrevista foi realizada a partir dos seguintes eixos norteadores: a trajetória da democracia no Brasil em diferentes contextos políticos e econômicos; os impactos do nacional desenvolvimentismo no percurso brasileiro; a concepção e panorama da esquerda e da Nova Direita como campo político e reflexões atuais do terceiro mandato do presidente Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, por meio de um olhar sobre a importância e tensionamentos enfrentados para reconstruções das políticas públicas, mudanças climáticas e do desenvolvimento social. Por fim, Vera Cepêda oferece reflexões sobre a democracia, desenvolvimentismo e as correntes político-ideológicas no âmbito da Ciência Política, especialmente da área do Pensamento Social e Político Brasileiro.
A legitimação do processo democrático
Authors: Furtado Filho Emmanuel Teófilo , Silva Emanuel Freitas da , Castro Ítalo Said de
Published: November 2024

As relações entre democracia, liberdade de expressão e desinformação tem sido objeto de diversos estudos no campo da Ciência Política, dadas as implicações que tais relações legam ao comportamento político de diversos atores na contemporaneidade, com destaque para momentos de disputa eleitoral. O presente artigo apresenta-se como um estudo de caso da atuação de um desses atores, o Tribunal Superior Eleitoral (TSE), órgão máximo de competência eleitoral no Brasil, durante as eleições presidenciais de 2022. Assim, o objetivo é, dentro da proposta do dossiê, analisar medidas de enfrentamento à desinformação quanto à atuação da Justiça Eleitoral levadas a cabo pelo TSE na busca por minorar os efeitos da articulação de atores do campo político que objetivavam deslegitimar o processo eleitoral e fazer circular inverdades acerca de adversários, fazendo com que parte considerável do trabalho da Justiça se desse em torno do julgamento de ações impetradas para desmentir fatos inverídicos. Por meio da discussão teórica acerca da desinformação e da análise de peças jurídicas e campanhas de informação geradas pelo TSE, busca-se discutir os limites e desafios que a comunicação contemporânea impõe à democracia, dada a instantaneidade da comunicação produzida pelo meio digital. Afinal, as campanhas eleitorais serão consumidas pela lógica da não factualidade?
Entre elites
Authors: Passos Ana Quele , Silva Maurício Ferreira
Published: November 2024

Este estudo aborda o perfil sociopolítico das elites políticas na Bahia, com foco na análise comparativa entre o carlismo e o lulismo, grupos de poder que protagonizam a representação política do estado após a promulgação da Constituição Federal de 1988. Para o entendimento dessa dualidade representativa, o quadro analítico aqui utilizado incluiu os governadores, os deputados federais e os senadores eleitos em nove processos eleitorais entre os anos de 1990 e 2022. A pesquisa utilizou a estatística descritiva e teve a coleta realizada através do Portal de Dados Abertos do TSE (Tribunal Superior Eleitoral). A unidade de observação correspondeu às biografias individuais, e a unidade de análise, aos representantes do carlismo (membros do extinto Partido da Frente Liberal — PFL —, do sucessor Democratas — DEM — e do atual União Brasil) e do lulismo (reunidos no Partido dos Trabalhadores — PT) na Bahia. Os resultados evidenciam que, mesmo vinculados a espectros ideológicos distintos, carlistas e lulistas apresentam perfis semelhantes, exprimindo a sobrerrepresentação de homens, com alto grau de escolaridade e oriundos de profissões liberais, convergindo para o quadro das elites nacionais.
Validity and Reliability of the Korean Version of the Patient Competency Rating Scale (K-PCRS) as an Assessment for Self-awareness of Brain Injury Patients
Authors:   The Korean Society of Occupational Therapy, Kim Heung-Su , Jeong Jin-Won , Kim Young-Geun
Published: November 2024

Purpose: The study aim was to validate the Korean version of the Patient Competency Rating Scale (K-PCRS) for accurately assessing self-awareness in patients with brain injuries. Methods: After completing the final translation through verification, data were collected from 62 patients with brain injuries, 60 relatives, and 62 occupational therapists in the experimental group, as well as 60 participants and 60 family members in the control group. The translated K-PCRS and Korean-Beck Depression Inventory (K-BDI) were evaluated to verify validity and reliability. Results: The confirmatory factor analysis supported the four-factor model of the K-PCRS, showing a good fit. A discriminant validity analysis revealed significant differences between the experimental and control groups (p < 0.05). Internal reliability was strong, with Cronbach's α values of 0.947 for patients, 0.946 for relatives, and 0.958 for therapists. The correlation analysis showed a coefficient of 0.4 between the patient-therapist discrepancy score and K-BDI. Conclusion: This study confirmed that the K-PCRS is a valid and reliable tool for objectively assessing self-awareness in patients with brain injuries, suggesting its potential for broader clinical applications.