bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lipoprotein(a) in patients with breast cancer after chemotherapy: exploring potential strategies for cardioprotection
Authors: Wang Ziqing , Li Jian
Published: September 2023

Developments in neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy (CHT) have led to an increase in the number of breast cancer survivors. The determination of an appropriate follow-up for these patients is of increasing importance. Deaths due to cardiovascular disease (CVD) are an important part of mortality in patients with breast cancer.

This review suggests that chemotherapeutic agents may influence lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) concentrations in breast cancer survivors after CHT based on many convincing evidence from epidemiologic and observational researches. Usually, the higher the Lp(a) concentration, the higher the median risk of developing CVD. However, more clinical trial results are needed in the future to provide clear evidence of a possible causal relationship. This review also discuss the existing and emerging therapies for lowering Lp(a) concentrations in the clinical setting. Hormone replacement therapy, statins, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin-type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors, Antisense oligonucleotides, small interfering RNA, etc. may reduce circulating Lp(a) or decrease the incidence of CVD.
Engineering exosomes derived from subcutaneous fat MSCs specially promote cartilage repair as miR-199a-3p delivery vehicles in Osteoarthritis
Authors: Zhao Shu , Xiu Guanghui , Wang Jian , Wen Yi , Lu Jinyuan , Wu Baitong , Wang Guangming , Yang Danjing , Ling Bin , Du Dajiang , Xu Jun
Published: September 2023

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease involving cartilage. Exosomes derived from Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) therapy improves articular cartilage repair, but subcutaneous fat (SC) stromal cells derived exosomes (MSCsSC-Exos), especially engineering MSCsSC-Exos for drug delivery have been rarely reported in OA therapy. This objective of this study was to clarify the underlying mechanism of MSCsSC-Exos on cartilage repair and therapy of engineering MSCsSC-Exos for drug delivery in OA. MSCsSC-Exos could ameliorate the pathological severity degree of cartilage via miR-199a-3p, a novel molecular highly enriched in MSCsSC-Exos, which could mediate the mTOR-autophagy pathway in OA rat model. Intra-articular injection of antagomiR-199a-3p dramatically attenuated the protective effect of MSCsSC-Exos-mediated on articular cartilage in vivo. Furthermore, to achieve the superior therapeutic effects of MSCsSC-Exos on injured cartilage, engineering exosomes derived from MSCsSC as the chondrocyte-targeting miR-199a-3p delivery vehicles were investigated in vitro and in vivo. The chondrocyte-binding peptide (CAP) binding MSCsSC-Exos could particularly deliver miR-199a-3p into the chondrocytes in vitro and into deep articular tissues in vivo, then exert the excellent protective effect on injured cartilage in DMM-induced OA mice. As it is feasible to obtain human subcutaneous fat from healthy donors by liposuction operation in clinic, meanwhile engineering MSCsSC-Exos to realize targeted delivery of miR-199a-3p into chondrocytes exerted excellent therapeutic effects in OA animal model in vivo. Through combining MSCsSC-Exos therapy and miRNA therapy via an engineering approach, we develop an efficient MSCsSC-Exos-based strategy for OA therapy and promote the application of targeted-MSCsSC-Exos for drug delivery in the future.

Graphical Abstract
Transcriptional landscape of Kaposi sarcoma tumors identifies unique immunologic signatures and key determinants of angiogenesis
Authors: Ramaswami Ramya , Tagawa Takanobu , Mahesh Guruswamy , Serquina Anna , Koparde Vishal , Lurain Kathryn , Dremel Sarah , Li Xiaofan , Mungale Ameera , Beran Alex , Ohler Zoe Weaver , Bassel Laura , Warner Andrew , Mangusan Ralph , Widell Anaida , Ekwede Irene , Krug Laurie T. , Uldrick Thomas S. , Yarchoan Robert , Ziegelbauer Joseph M.
Published: September 2023

Background

Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is a multicentric tumor caused by Kaposi sarcoma herpesvirus (KSHV) that leads to morbidity and mortality among people with HIV worldwide. KS commonly involves the skin but can occur in the gastrointestinal tract (GI) in severe cases.

Methods

RNA sequencing was used to compare the cellular and KSHV gene expression signatures of skin and GI KS lesions in 44 paired samples from 19 participants with KS alone or with concurrent KSHV-associated diseases. Analyses of KSHV expression from KS lesions identified transcriptionally active areas of the viral genome.

Results

The transcript of an essential viral lytic gene, ORF75, was detected in 91% of KS lesions. Analyses of host genes identified 370 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) unique to skin KS and 58 DEGs unique to GI KS lesions as compared to normal tissue. Interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-10 gene expression were higher in skin lesions as compared to normal skin but not in GI KS lesions. Twenty-six cellular genes were differentially expressed in both skin and GI KS tissues: these included Fms-related tyrosine kinase 4 (FLT4), encoding an angiogenic receptor, and Stanniocalcin 1 (STC1), a secreted glycoprotein. FLT4 and STC1 were further investigated in functional studies using primary lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs). In these models, KSHV infection of LECs led to increased tubule formation that was impaired upon knock-down of STC1 or FLT4.

Conclusions

This study of transcriptional profiling of KS tissue provides novel insights into the characteristics and pathogenesis of this unique virus-driven neoplasm.
Astrocytes evoke a robust IRF7-independent type I interferon response upon neurotropic viral infection
Authors: Weichert Loreen , Düsedau Henning Peter , Fritzsch David , Schreier Sarah , Scharf Annika , Grashoff Martina , Cebulski Kristin , Michaelsen-Preusse Kristin , Erck Christian , Lienenklaus Stefan , Dunay Ildiko Rita , Kröger Andrea
Published: September 2023

Background

Type I interferons (IFN-I) are fundamental in controlling viral infections but fatal interferonopathy is restricted in the immune-privileged central nervous system (CNS). In contrast to the well-established role of Interferon Regulatory Factor 7 (IRF7) in the regulation of IFN-I response in the periphery, little is known about the specific function in the CNS.

Methods

To investigate the role for IRF7 in antiviral response during neurotropic virus infection, mice deficient for IRF3 and IRF7 were infected systemically with Langat virus (LGTV). Viral burden and IFN-I response was analyzed in the periphery and the CNS by focus formation assay, RT-PCR, immunohistochemistry and in vivo imaging. Microglia and infiltration of CNS-infiltration of immune cells were characterized by flow cytometry.

Results

Here, we demonstrate that during infection with the neurotropic Langat virus (LGTV), an attenuated member of the tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) subgroup, neurons do not rely on IRF7 for cell-intrinsic antiviral resistance and IFN-I induction. An increased viral replication in IRF7-deficient mice suggests an indirect antiviral mechanism. Astrocytes rely on IRF7 to establish a cell-autonomous antiviral response. Notably, the loss of IRF7 particularly in astrocytes resulted in a high IFN-I production. Sustained production of IFN-I in astrocytes is independent of an IRF7-mediated positive feedback loop.

Conclusion

IFN-I induction in the CNS is profoundly regulated in a cell type-specific fashion.
MCM4 expression is associated with high-grade histology, tumor progression and poor prognosis in urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Kobayashi Go , Hayashi Tetsutaro , Sentani Kazuhiro , Uraoka Naohiro , Fukui Takafumi , Kido Aya , Katsuya Narutaka , Ishikawa Akira , Babasaki Takashi , Sekino Yohei , Nose Hiroyuki , Arihiro Koji , Hinata Nobuyuki , Oue Naohide
Published: September 2023

Background

We previously reported Minichromosome maintenance 4 (MCM4) overexpression in gastric cancer. However, the clinicopathological significance of MCM4 in urothelial carcinoma (UC) has not been investigated. To clarify the clinicopathological significance of MCM4 in UC, we investigated MCM4 expression with immunohistochemistry (IHC).

Methods

We analyzed the expression and distribution of MCM4 in 124 upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) samples by IHC. Additionally, using 108 urine samples, we analyzed MCM4 Immunocytochemistry (ICC) expression in urine cytology.

Results

In normal urothelium, MCM4 expression was weak or absent. Meanwhile, the strong nuclear expression of MCM4 was observed in UTUC tissues, and it was detected in 77 (62%) of a total of 124 UTUC cases. MCM4-positive UTUC cases were associated with nodular/flat morphology, high grade, high T stage, and poor prognosis. Moreover, MCM4 expression was significantly higher in the invasive front than in the tumor surface. Similar results were also obtained in TCGA bladder cancer cohort. Additionally, MCM4 expression was associated with high expression of Ki-67, HER2, EGFR, and p53 in UTUC. Among representative cancer-related molecules, MCM4 had an independent predictive value for progression-free survival and high-grade UC. ICC for MCM4 was also performed on urine cytology slides and showed that the nuclear expression of MCM4 was more frequently found in UC cells than in non-neoplastic cells. The diagnostic accuracy of urine cytology was improved by combining MCM4 immunostaining with cytology.

Conclusion

These results suggest that MCM4 might be a useful predictive biomarker for high-grade histology, tumor progression and poor prognosis in UC. Moreover, ICC for MCM4 might be helpful for UC detection as additional markers in the cytomorphology-based diagnosis.
The safe zone of distal fibula was determined based on the classification of lateral malleolus fossa
Authors: You Gui-xuan , Huang Lei , Li Ming-hui , Xiong Bin , Peng Wan-lin , Shi Hou-yin , Zhang Lei
Published: September 2023

Background

Lateral malleolus fractures are very common, and the distal fibular geometry is complex. This study aimed to classify the lateral malleolus fossa (MF) into different types by characterizing the lateral MF imaging morphology and exploring the relationship between the lateral MF and internal fixation position after distal fibula fractures.

Methods

Anteroposterior CT reconstruction was performed on 248 subjects. After reconstruction, the deepest point of the lateral MF was located, and then, the cross-sectional shape of the lateral MF was observed and classified.

Results

According to the morphology of the CT cross section, the lateral MF was divided into three types: type C (43.1%), type V (32.2%), and type Flat (24.7%). Type V (3.98 ± 0.82) was significantly longer than type C(2.83 ± 0.54) and type Flat (1.84 ± 0.42) in cd. Similarly, in ∠α, Type Flat(136.31 ± 9.63) was the largest, followed by type C (116.51 ± 8.79), and type V (89.31 ± 9.07) was the smallest. Other measurements were not found any significant differences between the above.

Conclusion

According to the morphology of the CT cross section, the lateral MF was divided into three types: type C, type V and type Flat. Type V is most likely to be invaded when fixing the distal fibula. Screws less than 9 mm should be selected when fixing, and screws no more than 10 mm should be selected when there are type C and type Flat of MF.
Determination of a safe sedative combination of dexmedetomidine, ketamine and butorphanol for minor procedures in dogs by use of a stepwise optimization method
Authors: Imboden Tobias Jonas , Pownall William Robert , Rubin Stéphanie , Spadavecchia Claudia , Schöllhorn Bernhard , Rohrbach Helene
Published: September 2023

Background

In veterinary practice, most minor procedures such as radiographs, skin biopsies, and wound treatments require sedation. The combination of butorphanol, ketamine, and dexmedetomidine is commonly used, but the ideal dosages for this combination have not been defined. This randomized prospective clinical 3-phases trial initially tested eight clinically relevant combinations of intramuscular administration in 50 dogs (phase 1). The quality of each combination was rated using a purposefully developed negative score (NS; 0-21.5, the lower the NS the better the quality of sedation) to judge the quality of sedation, the occurrence of side effects, and the need for additional anaesthetics. Based on the results of the NS, the eight combinations were divided into “promising” and “unsatisfactory” subgroups. In phase 2, a new combination (N) was calculated and tested in six dogs replacing the worst of the eight initial combinations. This procedure was repeated until the NS could not be improved any further. In phase 3, the best combination was tested in 100 adult dogs undergoing diagnostic or therapeutic procedures.

Results

The optimal combination established was dexmedetomidine 0.005 mg/kg, ketamine 1 mg/kg, and butorphanol 0.3 mg/kg with a median NS of 1.5 (interquartile range 1.5–2.4). In all 112 dogs receiving this combination, the quality of sedation was satisfactory and no severe side effects were detected.

Conclusions

The application of this optimization method allowed the calculation of an optimal drug combination to sedate cardiovascularly healthy dogs. After having being tested in 112 animals, this combination can consequently be considered safe. Therefore, this combination can now be used in daily clinical practice for cardiovascularly healthy adult dogs undergoing minor procedures.
MEGADOCK-on-Colab: an easy-to-use protein–protein docking tool on Google Colaboratory
Authors: Ohue Masahito
Published: September 2023

Motivation

Since the advent of ColabFold, numerous software packages have been provided with Google Colaboratory-compatible ipynb files, allowing users to effortlessly test and reproduce results without the need for local installation or configuration. MEGADOCK, a protein–protein docking tool, is particularly well-suited for Google Colaboratory due to its lightweight computations and GPU acceleration capabilities. To increase accessibility and promote widespread use, it is crucial to provide a computing environment compatible with Google Colaboratory.

Results

In this study, we report the development of a Google Colaboratory environment for running our protein–protein docking software, MEGADOCK. We provide a comprehensive ipynb file, including the compilation of MEGADOCK with the FFTW library installation on Colaboratory, the introduction of related tools using PyPI/apt, and the execution and visualization of docking structures. This streamlined environment enables users to visualize docking structures with just one click. The code is available under a CC-BY NC 4.0 license from https://github.com/ohuelab/MEGADOCK-on-Colab.
Structural analysis and susceptibility inversion based on ground magnetic data to map the chromite mineral resources: a case study of the Koh Safi Chromite Ore Deposit, Parwan, Afghanistan
Authors: Rezayee Mohammad Hakim , Khalaj Mahdi , Mizunaga Hideki
Published: September 2023

The Koh Safi Chromite Ore Deposit is located in Afghanistan’s northern–northeastern end of the Kabul–Kandahar ophiolite zone. Sedimentary formations, delayed volcanic, and ultramafic rock groups, including peridotites and serpentinites, could all have been found in the Koh Safi area, where structural discontinuities with the two trends of northwest–southeast and east–west can be identified. High-grade serpentinite units have many chromite deposits, whereas peridotite has a lot of medium-grade deposits. This paper performs a ground magnetic data analysis based on structural analysis and 3-D susceptibility inversion. The boundaries of structural faults and anomalous bodies are likely delineated in a northwest-to-southeast orientation using a series of derivative maps, including Total Horizontal Derivative, Analytical Signal, and Theta Map. For inversion, many regularization norms that included the range of smooth, intermediate, and compact models were used to examine a particular susceptibility value that occurred in a model cell. The sparse and blocky norms [0,1,1,1] were suggested for our inversion in field data based on synthetic data to determine an appropriate norm. A 3-D inversion of ground magnetic data shows that the highly magnetic zone supposed to be the host rocks seems to be where chromite occurs in the study area.
Teamwork dynamics in the context of large-size software development courses
Authors: Magana Alejandra J. , Amuah Theodora , Aggrawal Sakhi , Patel Devang A.
Published: September 2023

Background

Effectively facilitating teamwork experiences, particularly in the context of large-size courses, is difficult to implement. This study seeks to address the challenges of implementing effective teamwork experiences in large courses. This study integrated teamwork pedagogy to facilitate a semester-long project in the context of a large-size class comprising 118 students organized into 26 teams. The data for this study were collected from two online teamwork sessions when teams collaborated and self-recorded during the in-class time. The video recordings were qualitatively analyzed to identify patterns in team dynamics processes through visualizations. The study aims to provide insights into the different ways team members engaged in team dynamics processes during different phases of the semester.

Results

Findings suggest that members of teams were mostly active and passive during meetings and less constructive and interactive in their engagement. Team members mainly engaged in communication, team orientation, and feedback behaviors. Over time, team members' interactions with one another remained about the same, with feedback behaviors tending to diminish and coordination behaviors staying about the same or slightly increasing over time.

Conclusion

The implications of this study extend to both practice and theory. Practically, combining cooperative learning and scrum practices enabled a blend of collaborative and cooperative work, which suggests providing teams with tools and structures to coordinate teamwork processes and promote interaction among team members. From a theoretical perspective, this study contributes to the understanding of temporal aspects of teamwork dynamics by examining how team interactions evolve during working sessions at different points in time. Overall, this research provides valuable insights for educators, practitioners, and researchers aiming to enhance teamwork experiences in large courses, particularly in software development disciplines.
Motivation, anxiety, and self-efficacy in learning aviation English: a study of Indonesian aviation cadets
Authors: Rochmawati Laila , Fatmawati  , Sukma Meita Maharani
Published: September 2023

Indonesian aviation cadets’ complex and multi-faceted tasks have directed them to exhaustion and less learning focus. Their motivation and self-efficacy in learning Aviation English are hampered so their anxiety dominates. This hypothetical cause and effect enforce the present study to describe their motivation, anxiety, and self-efficacy in learning Aviation English. The present study also aimed to reveal the effect of each construct on their learning performance and identify the most predictive sub-skills that contribute to their motivation, anxiety, and self-efficacy formation. This study used a cross-sectional survey research design with a quantitative research approach. There were 207 aviation cadets chosen purposively to participate in the study. Data were collected using the Motivation, Anxiety, and Self-Efficacy Scale (MASS) with a 6-point Likert’s scaling method (α = .987) and cadets’ final test scores. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson r correlation, and hierarchical multiple regression with the assistance of SPSS software. Results showed that cadets’ motivation, anxiety, and self-efficacy in learning Aviation English were high, thus, their learning optimism and pessimism were growing together. Each variable had a positive and strong relationship with one other (r > .05, p < .001). Another finding was that communication and test anxiety was the most influencing factor in determining cadets’ learning performance.
Mediation effect of anxious attachment on relationship between childhood trauma and suicidal ideation sensitive to psychological pain levels
Authors: Ihme Hannah , Courtet Philippe , Risch Nathan , Dubois Jonathan , Belzeaux Raoul , Olié Emilie
Published: September 2023

Background

Childhood trauma (CT), depression, and psychological pain are known predictors of suicidal ideation. Recent literature additionally highlights the importance of the attachment system.

Methods

We aimed to predict suicidal ideation through CT, attachment, and psychological and social pain by using mediation models aiming to predict suicidal ideation through CT (predictor) and attachment (mediator). In the same models, we introduced psychological or social pain as a moderator of the relationship between attachment, CT, and suicidal ideation. We included 161 depressed patients and assessed depression, attachment, CT, suicidal ideation, psychological pain, and social pain.

Results

We found (1) a complete mediating effect of anxious attachment (a2b2= 0.0035, CI95%= [0.0010; 0.0069]) on the relationship between CT on suicidal ideation, and (2) a significant complete conditional mediating effect of anxious attachment and psychological pain (index of moderated mediation VAS: 0.0014; CI95%= [0.0002; 0.0032]) but not social pain on the relationship between CT and suicidal ideation. Both models were controlled for history of suicidal attempt, depression severity, and sex.

Conclusions

Our results suggest a developmental profile of suicidal ideation in mood disorder that is characterized by the presence of CT and insecure attachment, especially anxious attachment, that is sensitive to experiences of psychological pain. Nevertheless, we cannot conclude that avoidantly attached individuals do not present the same mechanism, as they may not disclose those ideas.
Health Care Contact Days Experienced by Decedents With Advanced GI Cancer
Authors: Patel Vishal R. , Ramesh Vidhyalakshmi , Tsai Alexander K. , Sedhom Ramy , Westanmo Anders D. , Blaes Anne H. , Vogel Rachel I. , Parsons Helen M. , Hanna Timothy P. , Ganguli Ishani , Dusetzina Stacie B. , Rocque Gabrielle B. , Booth Christopher M. , Gupta Arjun
Published: September 2023

Patients with stage IV GI cancer spent 1 in 4 days alive with health care contact!
Clonal Hematopoiesis as a Molecular Risk Factor for Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity: A Proof-of-Concept Study
Authors: Mammadova Jamila , Colin-Leitzinger Christelle , Nguyen Diep , Mhaskar Rahul , Ganesan Shridar , Tang Yi-Han , Teng Mingxiang , Ismail-Khan Roohi , Gillis Nancy
Published: September 2023

Clonal hematopoiesis is associated with 8.6-fold higher risk of doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity.
Vitamin D Deficiency Increases Vulnerability to Canagliflozin-induced Adverse Effects on 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D and PTH
Authors: Shahidzadeh Yazdi Zhinous , Streeten Elizabeth A , Whitlatch Hilary B , Montasser May E , Beitelshees Amber L , Taylor Simeon I
Published: September 2023

Context

Canagliflozin has been reported to increase the risk of bone fracture—possibly mediated by decreasing 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25(OH)2D) and increasing parathyroid hormone (PTH).

Objective

This work investigated whether baseline vitamin D (VitD) deficiency renders individuals vulnerable to this adverse effect and whether VitD3 supplementation is protective.

Methods

This community-based, outpatient study had a paired design comparing individual participants before and after VitD3 supplementation. Eleven VitD-deficient (25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] ≤ 20 ng/mL) individuals were recruited from the Amish population in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Participants underwent 2 canagliflozin challenge protocols (300 mg daily for 5 days): the first before and the second after VitD3 supplementation. In the VitD3 supplementation protocol, participants received VitD3 supplementation (50 000 IU once or twice a week depending on body mass index for 4-6 weeks) to achieve 25(OH)D of 30 ng/mL or greater. Two coprimary end points were identified: effects of VitD3 supplementation on canagliflozin-induced changes in 1,25(OH)2D and PTH. Secondary end points included effects of VitD3 supplementation on baseline levels of VitD metabolites and PTH.

Results

VitD3 supplementation increased mean 25(OH)D from 16.5 ± 1.6 to 44.3 ± 5.5 ng/mL (P = .0006) and 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (24,25(OH)2D) from 1.0 ± 0.1 to 4.3 ± 0.6 ng/mL (P = .0002). Mean 1,25(OH)2D and PTH were unchanged. VitD3 supplementation decreased the magnitude of canagliflozin-induced changes in 1,25(OH)2D (from −31.3%±4.7% to −9.3%±8.3%; P = .04) and PTH (from +36.2%±6.2% to +9.7%±3.7%; P = .005).

Conclusion

VitD deficiency rendered individuals more vulnerable to adverse effects of canagliflozin on biomarkers associated with bone health. VitD3 supplementation was protective against canagliflozin's short-term adverse effects on 1,25(OH)2D and PTH.
Association of Circulating Very Long-Chain Saturated Fatty Acids With Cardiovascular Mortality in NHANES 2003-2004, 2011-2012
Authors: Tao Xinmiao , Liu Lin , Ma Pingnan , Hu Jinxia , Ming Zhu , Dang Keke , Zhang Yuntao , Li Ying
Published: September 2023

Context

Limited studies have shown a protective effect of very long-chain saturated fatty acids (VLSFAs) on healthy aging, diabetes, heart failure, and risk factors related to cardiovascular disease (CVD), but the role of VLSFAs on mortality risk is unclear.

Objective

We aimed to investigate the association of serum docosanoic acid (C22:0) and serum lignoceric acid (C24:0) with all-cause and disease-specific mortality and to confirm the effect of VLSFAs on mortality risk in the whole, hyperlipidemia, and hypertensive populations.

Methods

A total of 4132 individuals from the 2003-2004, 2011-2012 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were included in this study. There were 1326 and 1456 participants in the hyperlipidemia and hypertensive population, respectively. Mortality information was confirmed using the National Death Index (NDI). Multiple model calibration was performed using Cox regression analysis for known risk factors to explore the association between circulating VLSFAs and all-cause or CVD or coronary heart disease (CHD) mortality.

Results

In the whole population, individuals with higher circulating C22:0 and C24:0 as a percentage of total serum fatty acid levels reduced the risks of mortality of all-cause (C22:0: HR = .409; 95% CI, 0.271-0.618; C24:0: HR = 0.430; 95% CI, 0.283-0.651), CVD (C22:0: HR = 0.286; 95% CI, 0.134-0.612; C24:0: HR = 0.233; 95% CI, 0.101-0.538), and CHD (C22:0: HR = 0.401; 95% CI, 0.187-0.913; C24:0: HR = 0.263; 95% CI, 0.082-0.846). Similar to the whole population, individuals with higher circulating C22:0 and C24:0 as a percentage of total serum fatty acid levels in the hyperlipidemia and hypertensive populations were also protective for all-cause, CHD, and CVD mortality.

Conclusion

Our results confirm the protective effect of high levels of circulating VLSFAs (C22:0 and C24:0) on CVD, CHD, and all causes of death in the whole, hyperlipidemia, and hypertensive populations.
TSH and FT4 Reference Interval Recommendations and Prevalence of Gestational Thyroid Dysfunction: Quantification of Current Diagnostic Approaches
Authors: Osinga Joris A J , Derakhshan Arash , Feldt-Rasmussen Ulla , Huang Kun , Vrijkotte Tanja G M , Männistö Tuija , Bassols Judit , López-Bermejo Abel , Aminorroaya Ashraf , Vafeiadi Marina , Broeren Maarten A C , Palomaki Glenn E , Ashoor Ghalia , Chen Liangmiao , Lu Xuemian , Taylor Peter N , Tao Fang-Biao , Brown Suzanne J , Sitoris Georgiana , Chatzi Lida , Vaidya Bijay , Popova Polina V , Vasukova Elena A , Kianpour Maryam , Suvanto Eila , Grineva Elena N , Hattersley Andrew , Pop Victor J M , Nelson Scott M , Walsh John P , Nicolaides Kypros H , D’Alton Mary E , Poppe Kris G , Chaker Layal , Bliddal Sofie , Korevaar Tim I M
Published: September 2023

Context

Guidelines recommend use of population- and trimester-specific thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and free thyroxine (FT4) reference intervals (RIs) in pregnancy. Since these are often unavailable, clinicians frequently rely on alternative diagnostic strategies. We sought to quantify the diagnostic consequences of current recommendations.

Methods

We included cohorts participating in the Consortium on Thyroid and Pregnancy. Different approaches were used to define RIs: a TSH fixed upper limit of 4.0 mU/L (fixed limit approach), a fixed subtraction from the upper limit for TSH of 0.5 mU/L (subtraction approach) and using nonpregnancy RIs. Outcome measures were sensitivity and false discovery rate (FDR) of women for whom levothyroxine treatment was indicated and those for whom treatment would be considered according to international guidelines.

Results

The study population comprised 52 496 participants from 18 cohorts. Compared with the use of trimester-specific RIs, alternative approaches had a low sensitivity (0.63-0.82) and high FDR (0.11-0.35) to detect women with a treatment indication or consideration. Sensitivity and FDR to detect a treatment indication in the first trimester were similar between the fixed limit, subtraction, and nonpregnancy approach (0.77-0.11 vs 0.74-0.16 vs 0.60-0.11). The diagnostic performance to detect overt hypothyroidism, isolated hypothyroxinemia, and (sub)clinical hyperthyroidism mainly varied between FT4 RI approaches, while the diagnostic performance to detect subclinical hypothyroidism varied between the applied TSH RI approaches.

Conclusion

Alternative approaches to define RIs for TSH and FT4 in pregnancy result in considerable overdiagnosis and underdiagnosis compared with population- and trimester-specific RIs. Additional strategies need to be explored to optimize identification of thyroid dysfunction during pregnancy.
The Beginning is the End and the End is the Beginning
Authors: Huggins Nadia
Published: September 2023

On 9 April 2021, La Soufrière, the volcano in the main island in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, began to erupt explosively, forcing approximately 22,440 people in the north of the island to evacuate to the south. As the ash rained down, the landscape typically known for its lush greens and blues became muted and desaturated. The images selected for this photo essay were taken from a powerboat, with friends on board, during the first series of explosive eruptions that occurred that day. They are merely a snapshot of the larger project—The Beginning is the End and the End is the Beginning—which is an attempt to unlearn the aesthetics of photography and the politics of the image in the midst of catastrophe. The entire series focuses on exploring intimacy in physical spaces during catastrophes, and in the case of La Soufrière, the photographer’s relationships with kin and friends during the crisis. Further, the series hopes to examine the impact of ashfall on the terrestrial, coastal, and submarine environments, as well as the built environment.
“We Are Animal. So What?”
Authors: Mohabir Rajiv
Published: September 2023

This essay is a reading of Andil Gosine’s Nature’s Wild: Love, Sex, and Law in the Caribbean (2021) that thinks through the author’s contributions on LGBTQ+ history, art, and activism in the Caribbean. It begins with a look at how the animal is wielded discursively to deride queerness and thinks through the constructions of animality. Central to much of the essay is the framing of how for queer people Gosine’s ideas of either rejecting the animal or reclaiming it can be read in Colin Robinson’s poetry, and how liberation for the queer subject comes at a fraught cost. The essay concludes by looking at Gosine’s notions of “wrecking work” and uses them to read the history of Indian indenture in the literary arts.
Bacteriophage-Conjugated Fluorescent Nanoemulsion as a Novel Optical Probe for Highly Selective Bacterial Detection
Authors: Sekida Shin-ya , Chisaka Takatoshi , Uchiyama Jumpei , Takemura-Uchiyama Iyo , Matsuzaki Shigenobu , Niko Yosuke , Hadano Shingo , Watanabe Shigeru
Published: September 2023

Infectious disease mortality has decreased due to effective drugs and healthcare. However, global health remains threatened by infectious diseases. New methods of rapid and accurate bacterial detection have attracted considerable attention. Fluorescence detection of whole bacterial cells offers high sensitivity, quantitative analysis, and simple operation. A highly fluorescent bioconjugated probe improves sensitivity and selectivity. This study presents a novel, bright fluorescent probe comprising a bacteriophage and a fluorescent nanoemulsion (fNE) as biorecognition and signal transduction elements, respectively. We demonstrate that fluorescence microscopy imaging using the S. aureus-specific phage, S13′-fNE (phage-fNE), detects S. aureus in the presence of E. coli or S. pseudintermedius, another closely related Staphylococci, in a highly selective manner. Furthermore, fNEs with high dye loadings exhibit considerably greater brightness compared to the fluorescent dye alone, making them suitable for sensitive fluorescence imaging. Phage-fNEs can quantitatively detect S. aureus at 104–108 colony-forming units per milliliter (CFU mL−1), with a limit of detection of 8 × 104 CFU mL−1. This result is comparable to the lowest value achieved by microscopic bacterial detection, with no preconcentration or enzymatic signal enhancement methods used. Bioconjugated fNEs open new avenues for highly selective and sensitive fluorescent detection of bacteria.
Hezbollah’s Diversionary War in Lebanon: Continuity and Change in the Threat Perception
Authors: Elhan Nail
Published: September 2023

Hezbollah intervened in the civil war in Syria when the Assad regime was under threat of overthrow. Its intervention caused criticism from Lebanese actors and therefore required the organization to find legitimate foundations upon which to base its involvement. Discourse and rhetoric were the first elements that changed following the organization’s decision to intervene. Hezbollah revised its traditional discourse of security, which refers to Israel as the main threat, in 2013 and added an external enemy, the takfiris, which referred to fundamentalist groups in the civil war, as a new threat. However, it returned to its traditional discourse due to the domestic criticisms that followed. This study aims to explain the changing rhetoric of Hezbollah during the civil war in Syria through the frame of the diversionary theory of war. This theory claims that Hezbollah used a diversionary tactic to justify its intervention in the civil war and invented an external enemy as a threat to Lebanese security and territorial integrity.
Correlations between APACHE-II score and pressure parameters of mechanical ventilation in patients with ARDS and their value in prognostic evaluation
Authors: Lu Wei , Zhang Jiansong , Qiu Yao , Fei Na , Yin Liansen
Published: September 2023

Objective: To investigate the correlations between APACHE-II score and pressure parameters of mechanical ventilation in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and their value in prognostic evaluation.

Methods: This was a retrospective study. The clinical data of 79 patients with ARDS treated in Shengzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine from April 2020 to April 2022 were analyzed retrospectively. According to whether their APACHE-II scores were higher than 15, they were divided into low score group (n= 20) and high score group (n= 59). The plateau pressure (Pplat), driving pressure(ΔP) and mean airway pressure (Pmean) were compared. The correlation between APACHE-II score and pressure parameters of mechanical ventilation was analyzed. Based on the follow-up of 28-d survival, their Pplat, ΔP, Pmean and APACHE-II scores were compared. The value of APACHE-II score and pressure parameters in the prognostic evaluation of ARDS patients was analyzed.

Results: Pplat, ΔP and Pmean in the low score group were significantly lower than those in the high score group(P<0.05). Pplat, ΔP, Pmean and APACHE-II score in the survival group were significantly lower than those in the control group(P<0.05). APACHE-II score showed significantly positive correlations with Pplat, ΔP and Pmean. The AUC of Pmean, Pplat, ΔP and APACHE-II score in predicting the prognosis and diagnosis of ARDS patients was 0.761, 0.833, 0.754 and 0.832, respectively.

Conclusion: APACHE-II score of ARDS patients shows significantly positive correlations with pressure parameters of mechanical ventilation, and has diagnostic value for the prognosis of ARDS patients.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.6.7190

How to cite this: Wei Lu, Jiansong Zhang, Yao Qiu, Na Fei, Liansen Yin. Correlations between APACHE-II score and pressure parameters of mechanical ventilation in patients with ARDS and their value in prognostic evaluation. Pak J Med Sci. 2023;39(6):1584-1588.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.6.7190

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Artificial Intelligence Technologies and Practical Normativity/Normality: Investigating Practices beyond the Public Space
Authors: Bode Ingvild , Huelss Hendrik
Published: September 2023

This essay examines how artificial intelligence (AI) technologies may shape international norms. Following a brief discussion of the ways in which AI technologies pose new governance questions, we reflect on the extent to which norm research in the discipline of International Relations (IR) is equipped to understand how AI technologies shape normative substance. Norm research has typically focused on the impact and failure of norms, offering increasingly diversified models of norm contestation, for instance. But present research has two shortcomings: a near-exclusive focus on modes and contexts of norm emergence and constitution that happen in the public space; and a focus on the workings of a pre-set normativity (ideas of oughtness and justice) that stands in an unclear relationship with normality (ideas of the standard, the average) emerging from practices. Responding to this, we put forward a research programme on AI and practical normativity/normality based on two pillars: first, we argue that operational practices of designing and using AI technologies typically performed outside of the public eye make norms; and second, we emphasise the interplay of normality and normativity as analytically influential in this process. With this, we also reflect on how increasingly relying on AI technologies across diverse policy domains has an under-examined effect on the exercise of human agency. This is important because the normality shaped by AI technologies can lead to forms of non-human generated normativity that risks replacing conventional models about how norms matter in AI-affected policy domains. We conclude that AI technologies are a major, yet still under-researched, challenge for understanding and studying norms. We should therefore reflect on new theoretical perspectives leading to insights that are also relevant for the struggle about top-down forms of AI regulation.
Liderazgo ético y compromiso organizacional. El rol inesperado de la motivación intrínseca
Authors: Santiago Torner Carlos
Published: September 2023

El efecto del liderazgo ético sobre el comportamiento empresarial es un área de interés que no ha recibido suficiente atención en los últimos años. En consecuencia, esta investigación tiene como objetivo principal analizar la repercusión del liderazgo ético sobre el compromiso organizacional, utilizando la motivación intrínseca como variable mediadora, a través de cinco modelos independientes. La muestra está constituida por 448 empleados. El liderazgo ético se relaciona con el compromiso organizacional y, específicamente, con las dimensiones afectiva, normativa y de sacrificios percibidos (continuidad 2), pero no con la faceta de falta de alternativas laborales (continuidad 1). La motivación intrínseca es un mecanismo que facilita la relación del liderazgo ético con el compromiso organizacional y en concreto con el afectivo. Sin embargo, no logra explicar empíricamente cómo el líder ético se asocia con el compromiso normativo o de sacrificiospercibidos (continuidad 2). Como era de esperar, la motivación intrínseca no se relaciona, ni media, la falta de alternativas laborales (continuidad 1). En conclusión, la relación entre el liderazgo ético y el compromiso organizacional no depende, en todo caso, de la motivación intrínseca del seguidor.
Market Reaction to CEOs’ Dynamic Hemifacial Asymmetry of Expressions
Authors: Banker Rajiv D. , Ding Hui , Huang Rong , Li Xiaorong
Published: September 2023

Neuropsychological studies propose that listeners unconsciously assess speakers’ trustworthiness via their facial expressions. Building on this theory, we investigate how investors respond to CEOs’ dynamic hemifacial asymmetry of expressions (HFAsy) shown in CNBC’s video interviews about corporate earnings. Consistent with the neuropsychological prediction that facial asymmetry induces distrust, we document that (1) the stock market reacts negatively to the CEO’s HFAsy shown in the interview video, and (2) the market reaction to favorable earnings news is negatively associated with the CEO’s HFAsy. We also find a significantly positive association between the short-window abnormal bid-ask spreads and HFAsy, suggesting a larger investor disagreement for firms with high-HFAsy CEOs. Furthermore, we show that analyst forecast revisions are negatively associated with CEOs’ HFAsy. Our results are robust to conducting a falsification test using the previous quarter as a pseudo-event, employing an alternative measure of HFAsy, and using more granular trading data at the second level. Overall, our study provides evidence that investor trust and trading behavior are affected by the dynamic hemifacial asymmetry of expressions appearing on CEOs’ faces.

This paper was accepted by Brian Bushee, accounting.

Funding: Financial support from the National Natural Science Foundation of China [Grants 71772123, 72132006, 72172038, 72241425, 72273088, 72372103, and 72310107002], the National Social Science Foundation of China [Grant 23ZDA039], Fudan University (Sci-Tech Innovation Foundation of School of Management), and the Research Fund of Shanghai Data Exchange Corporation is gratefully acknowledged.

Supplemental Material: The data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2023.4922 .
Dynamics of Export of Soy Meal from India
Authors: Chaturvedi* Poonam , Nahatakar S. B. , Rajput Ankita
Published: September 2023

Significant changes had occurred in agricultural trade and export in the recent times in terms of cereals, pulses, oilseeds and their products. In the present study, an analysis had been carried out to estimate the growth rate of export of soybean and its main by-products particularly soy meal from India. The study was conducted using the data for the period of 2000-01 to 2020-21. The results revealed that there had been growth in export quantity and value of soybean from India however, negative growth rate was observed for export quantity of soy meal, but positive growth was observed for trade value. Republic of Korea emerged as the major importer for soy meal from India followed by Indonesia. China and USA emerged as major soybean meal exporter in the world. From India, export of soy meal was higher as compared to soybean, but lower growth rate of export value over the years clearly indicating that some other countries are competing the Indian export in world trade of soy meal due to increase awareness about non-GMO soybean in GMO soybean producing countries like Brazil, USA etc. For export of soy meal globally India is competing mainly with Argentina, Brazil, China and USA.
Recommending and Predicting Crop Yield using Smart Machine Learning Algorithm (SMLA)
Authors: Sutha* K. , Indumathi N. , Uma Shankari S.
Published: September 2023

Agriculture is always needed by every human and responsible for the economic growth of a country. Developed countries likewise America, Japan, China are leading and making other countries too dependent on their technologies. But developing countries like India are expecting a lot of new technological innovations in the field of agriculture. Innovations may be in the form of smart machines, automation systems, sensor-based instruments, etc. and an advantage for society. In this paper, we have proposed Recommending and Predicting Crop Yield using Smart Machine Learning Algorithm (SMLA). The proposed algorithm namely SMLA is compared with other traditional algorithms to predict crop yield. In comparison to other algorithms the proposed algorithm works efficiently and produces 95% accuracy.
Identifying barriers and enablers for a robust independent second check of medication in adult intensive care
Authors: Milic Vladimir , Cameron Lynda , Jones Carol
Published: September 2023

Background:

Independent second-checking of medication is part of everyday practice across many parts of the NHS. A robust, independent second check is built into medication administration protocols to reduce the risk of drug errors affecting patients.

Aim:

This work aims to determine the barriers and facilitators regarding a robust independent second check of medication before administration to patients within adult critical care.

Method:

Nurses in adult critical care were invited to participate in focus groups. They were asked to discuss factors that they felt enabled or prevented a robust second check of medication. Thematic analysis was undertaken by three critical care pharmacists.

Findings:

The major themes identified as barriers to an independent second check were: geography of the critical care unit; IT; routine; complex process; and personnel.

Conclusion:

There are complex barriers to undertaking a robust second check and addressing some of these could improve patient safety.
Supporting patients to reclaim their lives on home dialysis
Authors: Palmer Nick
Published: September 2023

Nick Palmer delves into the topic of home dialysis, shedding new light on it and its benefits
Annual Kidney Patient Reported Experience Measures survey goes digital
Authors: Slevin Julie , Elson Kay
Published: September 2023

The National Kidney PREM survey will go live online from 11th September until 6th November
Martin Heidegger's Changing Destinies
Authors: Payen Guillaume
Published: September 2023

In this biography of Martin Heidegger (1889–1976), now available in English, the connections between the German philosopher's life and work are synthesized. Critically, but without polemics, the book creates a portrait of Heidegger in his time, using all available sources—lectures, letters, and the notorious “black notebooks.” The book chronicles Heidegger's “changing destinies”: after the First World War, an uncompromising Catholicism gave way to a vigorous striving for a philosophical revolution—fertile ground for National Socialism. The book reflects a life of light and shadow. Heidegger was a great philosopher and teacher who cultivated friendships and love affairs with Jews but also was an anti-Semitic nationalist who lamented the “Judaization” of German intellectual life.
Interlude
Authors: Valenze Deborah
Published: September 2023

This interlude examines the place of bread in the history of scarcity. Despite widespread acceptance of tastes changing with the times, Thomas Robert Malthus viewed laborers' demands for white bread as an indication of their self-defeating sense of entitlement. More important, however, was the way in which the subject of bread brought to light his own hierarchy of dietary classification, drawn from what was essentially a customized historical and imperial map of civilization. His trademark principle repeated that once a people were well fed, they would reproduce more prolifically. Ultimately, the issue of hunger remained unresolved between the lines of the first Essay, and Malthus's subsequent writing on the subject remained focused on the inescapable problem of scarcity.