bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Nomogram for Predicting Liver Metastasis of Lymph-Node Positive Luminal B HER2 Negative Subtype Breast Cancer by Analyzing the Clinicopathological Characteristics of Patients with Breast Cancer
Authors: Yue Yuhan , Liang Junqing , Wu Yuruo , Tong Weibing , Li Dan , Cao Xuchen , Wang Xin
Published: October 2022

Background: Luminal B-like human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 negative (Luminal B [HER2−]) is the most common molecular subtype of breast cancer (BC). Since the relationship between Luminal B (HER2−) BC and liver metastasis (LM) is poorly defined, this retrospective study aimed to develop an LM risk nomogram for patients with lymph node-related (N + Luminal B [HER2−]) BC. Methods: Data were obtained for patients initially diagnosed with BC from the Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital. There were 30,975 Chinese female patients with stage I–III BC and follow-up confirming 1217 subsequent patients with LM, and 427 patients with N + Luminal B (HER2−). The LM risk was assessed using Cox proportional hazards regression, histogram, Venn diagram, and Kaplan–Meier survival analysis, with further analysis for patients with N + Luminal B (HER2−) BC. A nomogram was established based on the N + Luminal B (HER2−) BC data, which was validated using calibration plots. Results: The median age of 427 patients with N + Luminal B (HER2−) liver metastasis of breast cancer (BCLM) was 49 years. The largest number of patients with BCLM was diagnosed between the second to the 6th year, the longest interval from initial BC diagnosis to subsequent LM was 145 months. The patients with LM as the first site of distant metastasis which is associated with better survival were analyzed by Kaplan–Meier. The nomogram was constructed for the risk of LM that included age, menstrual status, unilateral oophorectomy, pregnancy, hepatitis B antigen, region of residence, tumor size, lymph node, clavicular lymph nodes, progesterone receptor, and lymph vessel invasion. Conclusion: We described the clinicopathological characteristics of patients with stage I–III BC, and constructed a nomogram for calculating personalized LM probabilities for patients with N + Luminal B (HER2−), which could guide future prolonged or early extensive treatment decisions.
Adverse Cardiac Effects of CAR T-Cell Therapy: Characteristics, Surveillance, Management, and Future Research Directions
Authors: Dalal Prarthana J. , Patel Nikita P. , Feinstein Matthew J. , Akhter Nausheen
Published: October 2022

This review summarizes the current literature on the adverse cardiac effects of CAR T-cell therapy. Case reports and series suggest that major adverse cardiovascular events are not uncommon after CAR T-cell therapy; however, limited data exist regarding incidence, pathophysiology, and prevention strategies related to CAR T-associated cardiovascular events. As cellular therapy advances and the indications for its use continue to expand, it is essential to better understand its associated cardiovascular toxicities. Biomarkers, cardiac imaging, longitudinal data from larger populations, and translational research are all essential areas for further research. Interestingly, CAR T-cell therapy can also be used to reverse cardiac fibrosis in murine models. Altogether this underscores the need to broadly understand how T-cells, endogenous and engineered, may impact cardiovascular diseases.
Berberine Suppressed the Progression of Human Glioma Cells by Inhibiting the TGF-β1/SMAD2/3 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Jin Yun , Zhang Jiawei , Pan Yunfeng , Shen Wangzhen
Published: October 2022

Background:

Previous studies have shown that berberine can inhibit glioma progression, although the underlying molecular mechanisms needed to be explored further. The aim of this study was to evaluate the suppressive effects of berberine on human glioma cells, and identify the underlying signaling pathways.

Material and Methods:

The cytotoxic effect of different concentrations of berberine against normal human glial cells (HEB) and 4 glioma cell lines was evaluated by the CCK-8 assay. Apoptosis was assayed by flow cytometry. In vitro migration and invasion were analyzed by the wound healing and transwell assays. The expression levels of specific proteins were measured by western blotting and ELISA.

Results:

Berberine significantly inhibited the proliferation of human glioma U-87 cells, and induced apoptosis in the U-87 and LN229 cells by downregulating Bcl-2, and upregulating Bax and caspase-3. In addition, berberine also inhibited migration and invasion of the glioma cells. Furthermore, berberine exerted its effects on the proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis of glioma cells by inhibiting the TGF-β1/SMAD2/3 signaling pathway, and exogenous TGF-β abrogated the pro-apoptotic and anti-oncogenic effects of berberine.

Conclusions:

Berberine inhibits glioma progression by targeting the TGF-β1/SMAD2/3 signaling pathway.
The impact of sports bra features on measured and perceived pressure for torso movement of the upper body
Authors: Ocran Francisca Margarita , Ji Xiaofen , Zhai Lina
Published: October 2022

The interpretation of pressure between a sports bra and the skin is highly significant to females, marketers, and designers because it helps reduce discomfort. So far, many studies on sports bras pressure have focused mainly on static activities such as standing or sitting and dynamic activities such as jumping, walking and running, skipping, and jogging that cause vertical movement of the body. Therefore, this study focuses on upper body torsion rather than vertical or horizontal motion. The objective is to identify and compare factors that restrict females with large breasts from playing golf using two types of sports bras, an Encapsulation and Compression sports bras. The Novel Pliance-X® pressure system assessed the contact pressures from the shoulder straps, underbust, and backband. The results demonstrated that the underband of both sports bras generated less pressure than other features, while the backband of sports bras produced more pressure. It was concluded that the encapsulation sports bra with a racerback design has acceptable results for females with larger breasts when playing golf.
Study on the reliability of accident analysis results: Taking two groups of four accident analysis references with the 24Model as samples
Authors: Jia Qingsong , Fu Gui , Xie Xuecai , Hu Shihan , Wang Yuxin , Lyu Qian
Published: October 2022

Accident prevention depends on accident analysis. In order to improve the reliability of accident analysis and find the common problems related to reliability in accident analysis, two groups of four papers of master’s and doctor’s theses which applied 24Model to analysis coal mine gas explosion accident were selected as samples. The unsafe act results obtained from the analysis are compared. The results show a low consistency level, which reflects that the reliability of the output needs to be improved. Through analysis, the inconsistency of details in causes description, the difficulty in the cause description and the omission of unsafe acts are the main reasons leading to the above situation. In order to standardize the description of cause items, the components of unsafe acts were defined as “premise + action”, and seven types of premises were summarized to judge unsafe acts. In order to improve the efficiency and reliability of accident analysis, it is suggested that the current data should be taken as reference, and the taxonomy based on consequences should be established to unify unsafe act detail description level, and the corresponding computer software should be developed to assist accident analysis.
Damsels in distress: Fragile masculinity in digital war
Authors: Gaufman Elizaveta
Published: October 2022

The Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine on 24 February 2022 was a culmination of anti-Ukrainian rhetoric that Russian political elite and state-controlled media have been promoting at least since 2013. Apart from accusing Ukraine of being a Neo-Nazi state, pro-Kremlin commentators have espoused a heavily gendered rhetoric describing Ukraine as a loose woman in need of saving by its older brother. Gendered discourse was instrumentalized in Russian foreign policy not only through aggressive masculinity, but also through femininity. The latter, in contrast, sought to downplay the aggressive masculinity associated with fascism and consequently diminish Ukraine’s agency and status compared to Russia. This article offers a taxonomy of feminization rhetoric that shows how different types of gendered constructs influence the success of securitization process. Drawing on empirical material from Russian social networks during the first war in Ukraine in 2014–2016, this article argues against gender’s silencing role but, instead, its central role in influencing every stage of securitization process. Moreover, the author shows how feminization rhetoric paved the way to the legitimation of the current war.
Individual and contextual factors in the Swedish Nutrition Care Process Terminology implementation
Authors: Lövestam Elin , Orrevall Ylva , Boström Anne-Marie
Published: October 2022

Background

Standardised terminologies and classification systems play an increasingly important role in the continuous work towards high quality patient care. Currently, a standardised terminology for nutrition care, the Nutrition Care Process (NCP) Terminology (NCPT), is being implemented across the world, with terms for four steps: Nutrition Assessment (NA), Nutrition Diagnosis (ND), Nutrition Intervention (NI) and Nutrition Monitoring and Evaluation (NME).

Objective

To explore associations between individual and contextual factors and implementation of a standardised NCPT among Swedish dietitians.

Method

A survey was completed by 226 dietitians, focussing on: (a) NCPT implementation level; (b) individual factors; and (c) contextual factors. Associations between these factors were explored through a two-block logistic regression analysis.

Results

Contextual factors such as intention from management to implement the NCPT (OR (odds ratio) ND 15.0, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 3.9–57.4, NME 3.7, 95% CI 1.1–13.0) and electronic health record (EHR) headings from the NCPT (OR NI 3.6, 95% CI 1.4–10.7, NME 3.8, 95% CI 1.1–11.5) were associated with higher implementation. A positive attitude towards the NCPT (model 1 OR ND 3.8, 95% CI 1.5–9.8, model 2 OR ND 5.0, 95% CI 1.4–17.8) was also associated with higher implementation, while other individual factors showed less association.

Conclusion

Contextual factors such as intention from management, EHR structure, and pre-defined terms and headings are key to implementation of a standardised terminology for nutrition and dietetic care.

Implications for practice

Clinical leadership and technological solutions should be considered key areas in future NCPT implementation strategies.
Prediction Targets of a Novel Sesquiterpene Lactone From Eupatorium lindleyanum DC. Against Viral Pneumonia Using Computational Pharmacology
Authors: Shen Xintong , Hu Hongtao , Xu Jiajin , Tian Shasha
Published: October 2022

Objective: This study employed computational pharmacology to explore the possible therapeutic targets and molecular mechanisms of F1012-2, a novel sesquiterpene lactone from Eupatorium lindleyanum DC. (EL), against viral pneumonia. Methods: With network pharmacology, we first looked into various databases for genes and proteins related to viral pneumonia, as well as the potential targets of F1012-2. By overlapping these 2 groups of genes, we acquired the candidate targets of F1012-2 against viral pneumonia. Afterward, enrichment analysis was performed to elucidate the interactive targets in the Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) database. The protein–protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed through the STRING database, and the results were imported into Cytoscape software to search for the key genes by Network Analyzer. Finally, molecular docking analysis was used to further validate the candidate targets of F1012-2 against viral pneumonia. Results: A total of 110 target genes were found for the 3 compounds within F1012-2 (Eupalinolide G, [EG] Eupalinolide I, [EI] and Eupalinolide J [EJ]), while 4322 potential therapeutic targets were uncovered related to viral pneumonia, and the intersection of the 2 groups generated 78 target genes. Among the candidate genes, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), interleukin-1beta (IL1B), tyrosine-protein kinase SRC, Caspase-3 (CASP3), and transcription factor and oncoprotein JUN have the highest degree, betweenness, and closeness, which could fit into binding with EG, EI, and EJ. The enrichment analysis indicated that the major pathways involved were sphingolipid, neurotrophin, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and Toll-like receptor signaling pathways. Conclusion: These findings showed that by the combination of network pharmacology and molecular docking, we could speculate on the possible mechanism of F1012-2's effect on viral pneumonia, with EGFR, IL1B, SRC, and CASP3 as the promising targets.
Spontaneous regression of an orbital Langerhans cell histiocytosis after biopsy: A case report. Spontaneous regression of an orbital Langerhans cell histiocytosis
Authors: Yahiaoui Safia , Ghorbel Asma , Ben Zid Khadija , Zarraa Semia , Kchaou Lina , FidaNoubigh  , Kaabia Wael , Bouguerra Fadoua , Mousli Alia , Abidi Rim , Yousfi Amani , Nadia Boujelbene , Nasr Chiraz
Published: October 2022

Langerhans histiocytosis or Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare benign pathology representing less than 1% of orbital tumors. It can cause either localized or generalized lesions, leading to the destruction of hard and soft tissues. Eosinophilic granuloma is the most benign form and the predominant clinical presentation of LCH. We report a case of eosinophilic granuloma with orbital involvement in an 18-year-old male patient. Orbital radiotherapy was initially planned, but finally it was not performed due to a spontaneous regression of the lesion after the incisional biopsy. The presented case supports an expectant attitude given the possibility of a spontaneous regression after the biopsy, especially in small lesions. However, long-term follow-up is essential given the risk of recurrence.
Diagnosing disseminated histoplasmosis in advanced HIV/AIDS disease in Cameroon using a point of care lateral flow assay
Authors: Kuate Marius Paulin Ngouanom , Abessolo Abessolo Hermine , Denning David W. , Stone Neil R. , Ndip Roland Ndip
Published: October 2022

Histoplasmosis is an AIDS-defining opportunistic infection. Disseminated histoplasmosis (DH) can be fatal without early diagnosis and treatment initiation. We present one confirmed and three probable cases of DH in advanced HIV/AIDS disease patients diagnosed using OIDx Histoplasma LFA in Yaoundé, Cameroon. Four women with HIV but unknown CD4 count presented with asthenia, weight loss, productive cough, and fever (39°C) as common symptoms for at least 3 weeks. Two of the patients had skin lesions. These included facial papules, macules, and umbilicated vesicles scattered over the trunk and limbs. These were diffuse lesions which were purulent, itching, and papillomatous lesions with a necrotic centre, and one patient had a right forearm ulcer. We performed the Histoplasma antigen tests using the OIDx Histo LFA, and they were strongly positive in all four patients. Histopathology in skin biopsy allowed identification of the species as Histoplasma capsulatum var capsulatum in one patient. In this same patient, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Proteus mirabilis were cultured from the forearm ulcer. This patient later commenced antibiotics (Levofloxacin 500 mg) and oral itraconazole (800 mg/day) with immediate improvement. Unfortunately, the other three patients could not access itraconazole, were discharged and lost to follow-up. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for the management of DH. LFA is a test that can be set up in any setting with limited resource. Access to this can be a major advance in the diagnosis of histoplasmosis in resource-limited settings.
Factors associated with uncontrolled asthma among adult asthmatic patients in eastern Ethiopia: A multicenter study
Authors: Heluf Helina , Assefa Nega , Dessie Yadeta , Goshu Abel Tibebu , Fekadu Gelana , Abdisa Lemesa , Tamiru Dawit
Published: October 2022

Objective:

Asthma is a major public health problem worldwide. Despite various attempts, it is still uncontrolled in most parts of the world. Moreover, it is contributing to the national and global burden of non-communicable diseases. Studying factors associated with uncontrolled asthma in different parts of Ethiopia is crucial to control the disease and improving the quality of life of asthmatic patients. Thus, this study aimed to determine the factors associated with uncontrolled asthma among adult asthmatic patients in Eastern Ethiopia.

Methods:

Facility-based cross-sectional study was employed from 1st October 2020 to 30th January 2021. A total of 416 adult asthmatic patients participated in the study from six hospitals follow-up clinics. Asthma control test was used to assess the participants level of asthma control and a score of ⩽19 were regarded to have uncontrolled asthma. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 24. Bivariable and multivariable analyses were carried out to identify factors associated with uncontrolled asthma and variables with a p value of less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Result:

The prevalence of uncontrolled asthma was 66.1 % (95% confidence interval: 61.5–70.4). Not attending scheduled medical follow-up (adjusted odds ratio: 2.54; 95% confidence interval: 1.28–4.99), poor knowledge about asthma (adjusted odds ratio = 4.59; 95% confidence interval: 2.01–10.51), negative attitude toward asthma (adjusted odds ratio = 3.72; 95% confidence interval: 1.83–7.59), and poor adherence to medications (adjusted odds ratio = 2.53; 95% confidence interval: 1.25–5.13) were significantly associated with uncontrolled asthma.

Conclusion:

In this study, the prevalence of uncontrolled asthma was considerably high. Not attending scheduled medical follow-up, poor knowledge about asthma, negative attitude toward asthma, and poor adherence to anti-asthma medications were associated with uncontrolled asthma. Therefore, it is crucial to focus on increasing the patients’ level of awareness about asthma control, improving medication adherence, and avoiding triggering factors.
Determining laboratory parameters in pregnant women with severe COVID-19
Authors: Djusad Suskhan , Irwinda Rima , Harzif Achmad Kemal , Surya Raymond , Wibowo Noroyono , Saroyo Yudianto Budi , Adjie JM Seno
Published: October 2022

Objective:

Coronavirus disease causes a wide spectrum of clinical picture in pregnant women. There are still a few studies concerning laboratory parameters to differentiate the severity of coronavirus disease-19 in pregnant patients. This article aims to identify the cut-off on laboratory parameters between pregnant women with asymptomatic/mild/moderate and severe/critical coronavirus disease-19 illness.

Methods:

All coronavirus disease-19 pregnant women coming to Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo hospital between January and August 2021 were recruited into this cross-sectional study. All data extracted from medical records were classified into demographic characteristics and laboratory parameters. We defined demographic characteristics as age, parity, systolic, and diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation. Laboratory parameters measured in this study consisted of complete blood count, renal function test including urea, creatinine, liver function test including aspartate transferase, alanine transferase, infection marker test including procalcitonin, C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, cycle threshold values, ferritin, coagulation test including d-dimer, fibrinogen, random blood glucose, albumin, electrolytes. Data analysis was performed using SPSS statistics.

Results:

There were 159 cases assessed in this study consisting of 130 (81.8%) patients with asymptomatic/mild/moderate illness and 29 (18.2%) patients with severe/critical illness of coronavirus disease-19. Of 28 laboratory parameters, 12 of them were significant statistically; thus, it resulted to make a cut-off using receiver operating characteristic curve and show relative risk, and 95% confidence interval. In multivariate analysis that aspartate transferase, D-dimer, and albumin were laboratory parameters impacted to the severity of coronavirus disease-19 in pregnant women. The area under receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.834 (95% CI 0.736–0.932).

Conclusion:

Of all laboratory parameters, urea, aspartate transferase, alanine transferase, procalcitonin, C-reactive protein, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), ferritin, D-dimer, random blood glucose, cycle threshold values, albumin, and chloride differs between asymptomatic/mild/moderate, and severe/critical illness coronavirus disease-19 in pregnant women; aspartate transferase, D-dimer, and albumin were laboratory parameters impacted the most to the severity of coronavirus disease-19 in pregnant women.
Emergence of colistin-resistant gram-negative rods in intensive care units: A cross-sectional study from a developing country
Authors: Syed Beenish , Ishaque Sadia , Imran Abira , Muslim Osaid , Khalid Seema , Siddiqui Abdul Basit
Published: October 2022

Objectives:

To determine the clinical features, outcomes, and factors associated with the emergence of colistin-resistant gram-negative rods isolated from patients admitted to intensive care units.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted at the intensive care units of Liaquat National Hospital, from April 2019 to February 2020. Gram-negative rods resistant to colistin with minimum inhibitory concentrations ⩾ 4 mcg/mL according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute criteria as reported in cultures were included. Clinical, demographical data and treatment given were recorded and analyzed using SPSS version 25.

Results:

A total of 93 patients were included; 58.1% were males. The mean age of patients was 59.48 ± 18.36 years. The most common organism isolated was Klebsiella pneumoniae (91.4%). The most common specimen was the tracheal (62.4%). Ventilator-acquired pneumonia was seen in 38.7%. The most common co-morbid disease seen in patients was diabetes (41%); 77% had a symptomatic infection and were treated with a combination of 2 or more antibiotics, most commonly meropenem plus fosfomycin. The most common susceptible antibiotics were fosfomycin (72%) and tigecycline (50.5%). Mean intensive care unit stay and total duration of hospital stay were prolonged (16.83 ± 12.93 and 23.34 ± 17.52 days, respectively). Forty-eight (62.3%) patients with symptomatic infection with colistin-resistant isolates were treated and discharged, and mortality was seen in 23 (29.9%). A significant association was found between mortality and symptomatic infection, endotracheal intubation with mechanical ventilation (p = 0.003), and a prolonged hospital stay of >20 days (p = 0.041).

Conclusion:

Colistin-resistant gram-negative rods pose a significant problem especially in developing countries because of limited therapeutic options. Stringent infection control and comprehensive antimicrobial stewardship programs are needed to overcome this challenge.
Exploring the sociocultural contexts in which healthcare staff respond to and use online patient feedback in practice: In-depth case studies of three NHS Trusts
Authors: Ramsey Lauren , Lawton Rebecca , Sheard Laura , O’Hara Jane
Published: October 2022

Objectives

Patients are increasingly reporting about their healthcare experiences online and NHS Trusts are adopting different approaches to responding. However, the sociocultural contexts underpinning these organisational approaches remain unclear. Therefore, we aimed to explore the sociocultural contexts underpinning three organisations who adopted different approaches to responding to online patient feedback.

Methods

Recruitment of three NHS Trusts was theoretically guided, and determined based on their different approaches to responding to online patient feedback (a nonresponding organisation, a generic responding organisation and an organisation providing transparent, conversational responses). Ethnographic methods were used during a year of fieldwork involving staff interviews, observations of practice and documentary analysis. Three in-depth case studies are presented.

Findings

The first organisation did not respond to or use online patient feedback as staff were busy firefighting volumes of concerns received in other ways. The second organisation adopted a generic responding style due to resource constraints, fears of public engagement and focus on resolving known issues raised via more traditional feedback sources. The final organisation provided transparent, conversational responses to patients online and described a 10-year journey enabling their desired culture to be embedded.

Conclusions

We identified a range of barriers facing organisations who ignore or provide generic responses to patient feedback online. We also demonstrated the sociocultural context in which online interactions between staff and patients can be embraced to inform improvement. However, this represented a slow and difficult organisational journey. Further research is needed to better establish how organisations can recognise and overcome barriers to engaging with online patient feedback, and at pace.
Investigation of Play Intervention for Dementia (PID) Activities in Addressing Cognitive Domains Reflected in Hong Kong Montreal Cognitive Assessment (HK-MoCA)
Authors: Lo Calvin Ka-Fung , Yung Eric Andrew , Tsang Ka Tat
Published: October 2022

Background/Objectives: Yee Hong Play Intervention for Dementia (PID) is a community program strengthening East Asians >65 years with dementia in their daily functional activities. We analyzed how PID activities align with Hong Kong Montreal Cognitive Assessment. Methods: Utilizing observation sheets procured from documentation notes from the twice-weekly PID sessions, cognitive domains were identified. Mean time duration and activity frequencies were compared between high and low competency client groups. Results: Independent of competency group, activities predominantly targeted attention/concentration (23.8% HC, 16.4% LC), and hand-eye coordination (19.1% HC, 28.7% LC). Less focused domains were delayed recall (3.1–4.7%) and naming (1.3–1.5%). Conclusions: Yee Hong PID tested innovative cognitive domains not currently covered in HK-MoCA screening assessment, emphasizing attention/concentration-oriented activities and none assessing orientation and language domains. Additionally, presence of new domains such as hand-eye coordination and fine motor dexterity suggested that strict adherence with standardized screening tools (e.g., MoCA) may not be ideal. Likely, facilitators have developed innovative measures to assess individual competency to strengthen resilience in our geriatric population.
Professionalisation and the spectacle of nature: Understanding changes in the visual imaginaries of private protected area organisations in Australia
Authors: Damiens Florence LP , Davison Aidan , Cooke Benjamin
Published: October 2022

Imaginaries of protected areas as state-based fortresses have been challenged by expansion of the global nature conservation estate on non-government lands, notably in contexts such as Australia where neoliberal reform has been strong. Little is known about the implications of this change for the meanings, purposes and practices of nature conservation. Images are central to public understandings of nature conservation. We thus investigate the visual communication of environmental non-government organisations (ENGOs) involved in private protected areas in Australia, with particular focus on Bush Heritage Australia (BHA). We employ a three-part design encompassing quantitative and qualitative methods to study the visual imaginaries underlying nature conservation in BHA's magazines and the web homepages of it and four other ENGOs over 2004–2020. We find that visual imaginaries changed across time, as ENGOs went through an organisational process of professionalisation comprising three dynamics: legitimising, marketising, and differentiating. An imaginary of dedicated Western volunteer groups protecting scenic wilderness was replaced by the spectacle of uplifting and intimate individual encounters with native nature. Amenable to working within rather than transforming dominant political-economic structures, the new imaginary empowers professional ENGOs and their partners as primary carers of nature. It advertises a mediated access to spectacular nature that promises positive emotions and redemption for environmental wrongs to financial supporters of ENGOs. These findings reveal the role of non-government actors under neoliberal conditions in the use of visual representations to shift the meanings, purposes and practices of nature conservation.
Use of Medicinal Plants by Cancer Patients Under Chemotherapy in the Northwest of Morocco (Rabat Area) : Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: El Orfi Nadia , Boutayeb Saber , Haddou Rahou Bouchra , Errihani Hassan
Published: October 2022

Background

Variety of conventional treatments are used to treat cancer. Cancer patients adopt other alternative therapies including medicinal plants. Their curative power results in the presence of secondary metabolites in its different parts. However, they can have toxic effects and interactions with conventional treatment and even chemosensitivity of the cancer cells.

Objectives

This study aims to determine the prevalence of the use of medecinal plants by cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, list the medecinal plants used, identify the most consumed, present the reported adverse effects and determine the predictive factors of their use.

Materials and Methods

This was a cross-sectional study of 203 patients followed at the National Institute of Oncology in Rabat from 01 October 2018 to 30 November 2018. Regarding socio-demographic and clinical characteristics and data on the use of medicinal plants were collected from a questionnaire.

Findings

of 203 patients, 37% used medicinal plants. 30 plants also the honey were identified during this study. The “euphorbia honey"was consumed at (40%), The most used plants were garlic (13%), turmeric, fenugreek and thyme (11% each). 5% of patients presented side effects related to the consumption of medicinal plants. There is a significant association between the use of medicinal plants and socio-economic level (p  =  0.004) and duration of illness (p  =  0.048).

Conclusion

This study revealed a high prevalence of medicinal plants used by cancer patients receiving chemotherapy at National Institute of Oncology. The more clinical studies are desirable to demonstrate the efficacy of medicinal plants and their therapeutic effects to encourage their consumption or prohibit them.
An Examination of a Cognitive Dissonance Body Image and Health Intervention for the College Classroom
Authors: Colgary Christina D. , Swanbrow Becker Martin , Zhang Qian , Konopa Jillian
Published: October 2022

Creating a positive college environment regarding body image concerns is warranted given their strong association with eating disorders (EDs) and the alarming rates of EDs on college campuses. There is also a growing need to universally diversify ED prevention programs and enhance selective prevention recruitment initiatives. This study included 132 undergraduate students in a universal and mixed-gendered setting (i.e., classrooms). Participants in the intervention condition received a single session of an adapted cognitive dissonance-based intervention aimed at reducing ED risk factors. The control condition included participants who received a general classroom lecture. Women and men in the two conditions were compared at pre-intervention, post-intervention, and 1-month follow-up timepoints on appearance-ideal internalization (thin-ideal and muscular-ideal), body image satisfaction, and behavioral intention to enroll in a selective ED prevention program, known as The Body Project (BP). Using mixed-effects modeling, results showed that women in the intervention condition significantly lowered muscular-ideal internalization scores at follow-up when compared to the control condition. There were no significant differences across all other variables, which suggests that the single session universal intervention was not effective in reducing body image dissatisfaction or triaging participants into The BP. Implications include further exploration of muscular-ideal internalization in ED development for women and the examination of other underlying dimensions of body image, such as internalized weight stigma and body functionality. Mixed-gendered settings might also benefit from cultivating conversations regarding the social injustices of beauty standards. These adjustments may help enhance the levels of cognitive dissonance experienced by participants.
Identification of miRNA biomarkers for breast cancer by combining ensemble regularized multinomial logistic regression and Cox regression
Authors: Li Juntao , Zhang Hongmei , Gao Fugen
Published: October 2022

Background

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women. It is necessary to classify breast cancer subtypes because different subtypes need specific treatment. Identifying biomarkers and classifying breast cancer subtypes is essential for developing appropriate treatment methods for patients. MiRNAs can be easily detected in tumor biopsy and play an inhibitory or promoting role in breast cancer, which are considered promising biomarkers for distinguishing subtypes.

Results

A new method combing ensemble regularized multinomial logistic regression and Cox regression was proposed for identifying miRNA biomarkers in breast cancer. After adopting stratified sampling and bootstrap sampling, the most suitable sample subset for miRNA feature screening was determined via ensemble 100 regularized multinomial logistic regression models. 124 miRNAs that participated in the classification of at least 3 subtypes and appeared at least 50 times in 100 integrations were screened as features. 22 miRNAs from the proposed feature set were further identified as the biomarkers for breast cancer by using Cox regression based on survival analysis. The accuracy of 5 methods on the proposed feature set was significantly higher than on the other two feature sets. The results of 7 biological analyses illustrated the rationality of the identified biomarkers.

Conclusions

The screened features can better distinguish breast cancer subtypes. Notably, the genes and proteins related to the proposed 22 miRNAs were considered oncogenes or inhibitors of breast cancer. 9 of the 22 miRNAs have been proved to be markers of breast cancer. Therefore, our results can be considered in future related research.
Renal–hepatic–pancreatic dysplasia-1 with a novel NPHP3 genotype: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Zhu Hui , Zhao Zhi-hui , Zhu Shu-yao , Xiong Fu , He Li-hong , Zhang Yong , Wang Jin
Published: October 2022

Background

Renal–hepatic–pancreatic dysplasia type 1 (RHPD1) is a rare sporadic and autosomal recessive disorder with unknown incidence. RHPD1 is caused by biallelic pathogenic variants in NPHP3, which encode nephrocystin, an important component of the ciliary protein complex.

Case presentation

In this case report, we describe a male newborn who was confirmed by ultrasound to have renal enlargement with multiple cysts, pancreatic enlargement with cysts, and increased liver echogenicity, leading to the clinical diagnosis of RHPD. In addition, a compound heterozygous pathogenic variant, namely, NPHP3 c.1761G > A (p. W587*) and the c.69delC (p. Gly24Ala24*11) variant, was detected by WES. The patient was clinically and genetically diagnosed with RHPD1. At 34 h of life, the infant died of respiratory insufficiency.

Conclusion

This is the first published case of RHPD1 in China. This study broadens the known range of RHPD1 due to NPHP3 pathogenic variants.
Evaluation of large airway specimens obtained by transbronchial lung cryobiopsy in diffuse parenchymal lung diseases
Authors: Sato S. , Yamakawa H. , Takemura T. , Nakamura T. , Nishizawa T. , Oba T. , Kawabe R. , Akasaka K. , Amano M. , Matsushima H.
Published: October 2022

Background

The difference in diagnostic yield between surgical lung biopsy and transbronchial lung cryobiopsy (TBLC) in diffuse parenchymal lung diseases (DPLD) has been reported to be due to differences in the rate of interpathologist agreement, specimen size, and specimen adequacy. In TBLC, the specimens containing large airway components are generally believed as inadequate specimens for histological evaluation, but the detailed characteristics of TBLC specimens including the large airway and the impact on histological diagnostic rates of DPLD have not been investigated.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the specimen characteristics of patients with DPLD who underwent TBLC.

Results

Between February 2018 and January 2020, 74 patients and 177 specimens were included. There were 85 (48.0%) large airway specimens (LAS) that contained bronchial gland or bronchial cartilage. The ideal specimen ratio was significantly lower in the LAS-positive group than that in the LAS-negative group (5.8% vs. 45.6%), and the proportion of bronchioles, alveoli, and perilobular area were similarly lower in the LAS-positive group. The presence of traction bronchiectasis and diaphragm overlap sign on high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) were also significantly higher in the LAS-positive group than those in the LAS-negative group. We observed a statistically significant trend in histological diagnostic yield (40.7% in LAS positive group; 60.8% in LAS positive and negative group; 91.6% in LAS negative group) (Cochran-Armitage trend test).

Conclusion

LAS is a specimen often collected in TBLC and contains a low percentage of bronchioles, alveoli, and perilobular area. Since the histological diagnostic yield tends to be higher in cases that do not contain LAS, it may be important to determine the biopsy site that reduces the frequency of LAS collection by referring to the HRCT findings in TBLC.
Global well-posedness and large time behavior of epitaxy thin film growth model
Authors: Duan Ning , Yuan Shuang
Published: October 2022

We consider the global well-posedness and large time behavior of solutions for epitaxy thin film growth model in $\mathbb{R}^{d}$

R
d

with the dimensional $d\geq 3$
d
≥
3
. First, using the pure energy method and a standard continuity argument, we prove that there exists a unique global strong solution under the condition that the initial data is sufficiently small. Moreover, we also establish the suitable negative Sobolev norm estimates and obtain the optimal decay rates of the higher-order spatial derivatives of the strong solution.
Continuous estimation of coseismic and early postseismic slip phenomena via the GNSS carrier phase to fault slip approach: a case study of the 2011 Tohoku-Oki sequence
Authors: Tanaka Yusuke , Ohta Yusaku , Miyazaki Shin’ichi
Published: October 2022

The transition process from coseismic to early postseismic phenomena within a half-day remains a significant topic for understanding the slip budget and friction properties of the fault. However, the investigation of this phase has undergone limited advancement. This is mainly due to the lack of precision pertaining to the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) analysis caused by difficulty of separation between fault slip and other unknown parameters such as tropospheric delay. Therefore, we propose an alternative approach (phase-to-slip; PTS) that detects fault slip directly from GNSS carrier phase variation without conventional positioning. Since the PTS simultaneously estimates fault slip and other unknowns, we can quantitatively evaluate their separation accuracy and contribution in the estimation. This study attempts to continuously estimate the coseismic and early postseismic slip of the 2011 Tohoku-Oki sequence using the PTS method. We analyzed 1-Hz carrier phase data for approximately 2 h before and after the mainshock origin (2011/03/11/05:46UTC). As a result, we successfully obtained the coseismic slip of the Mw9.0 mainshock and two major aftershocks in the off-Ibaraki (Mw7.8) and off Iwate (Mw7.4) regions. For all three events, the estimated slip distribution, equivalent moment magnitude, and calculated displacement field well agreed with those from the conventional positioning. Additionally, our results suggest postseismic slip mainly in the downdip area adjacent to the mainshock rupture. We obtained three major slip areas around the downdip region near Aomori, Iwate, and Miyagi. The estimated slip amount reaches approximately 0.1–0.2 m in 34 min immediately after the mainshock. The equivalent seismic moment of the slip areas near Iwate and Miyagi were approximately Mw7.4. This amount is similar or slightly greater than the estimations based on conventional positioning. Significant overlap is observed in the locations of the slip areas. In this manner, PTS continuously detected a series of coseismic and early postseismic slips with timescale ranging from a few minutes to an hour. Our results demonstrate the capability of the PTS method for broadband fault slip monitoring and its potential contribution to the investigation of early postseismic phenomena.
Fluids and physicochemical properties and processes in the Earth
Authors: Mysen Bjorn
Published: October 2022

The Earth's fluid budget is dominated by species in the system C–O–H–N–S together with halogens such as F and Cl. H2O is by far the most abundant. Such fluids are one of the two main mass transport agents (fluid and magma) in the Earth. Among those, in particular aqueous fluids are efficient solvents of geochemically important components at high temperature and pressure. The solution capacity of aqueous fluids can be enhanced further by dissolved halogens and sulfur. CO2or nitrogen species has the opposite effect.

Fluid-mediated transport in the Earth is by fluids passing through cracks at shallow depth and via percolation channels along grain boundaries at greater depth. Percolation velocity is linked to permeability, which, in turn is governed by rock porosity. Porosity is controlled by wetting angles,θ, at the interface between fluid and mineral surfaces. Whenθ < 60°, fluid will wet all grain boundaries of an isotropic crystalline material, whereas when greater than 60°, grain boundary wetting does not occur as readily, and fluid-mediated transport efficiency can be greatly reduced. The size of the wetting angle is negatively correlated with the solubility of silicate components in the fluids, which means that fluid composition, temperature, and pressure affect the wetting angles and, therefore, fluid-mediated mass transport efficiency in the interior of the Earth.

Geophysical and geochemical anomalies in the Earth's interior have been linked to the presence of fluids. Fluid infiltration in crustal and mantle rocks will enhance electrical conductivity and seismic wave attenuation. For example, 5–10% H2O-rich fluids in the mantle wedge above subducting plates have been suggested from enhanced electrical conductivity. Similar fluid fractions have been suggested to be consistent with seismic velocities in these regions. The geochemistry of the crust and the mantle can be affected by fluid-mediated transport of major, minor, and trace elements. When such altered materials serve as source rocks of partial melts, those geochemical alterations also lead to changes in partial melt compositions. As an example, the presence of such aqueous fluid in the mantle wedge above subducting and dehydrating subducting slabs is consistent with partial melting of an H2O-bearing mantle wedge above subducted oceanic crust.
Amisulpride augmentation therapy improves cognitive performance and psychopathology in clozapine-resistant treatment-refractory schizophrenia: a 12-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Zhu Ming-Huan , Liu Zhen-Jing , Hu Qiong-Yue , Yang Jia-Yu , Jin Ying , Zhu Na , Huang Ying , Shi Dian-Hong , Liu Min-Jia , Tan Hong-Yang , Zhao Lei , Lv Qin-Yu , Yi Zheng-Hui , Wu Feng-Chun , Li Ze-Zhi
Published: October 2022

Background

Although clozapine is an effective option for treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS), there are still 1/3 to 1/2 of TRS patients who do not respond to clozapine. The main purpose of this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was to explore the amisulpride augmentation efficacy on the psychopathological symptoms and cognitive function of clozapine-resistant treatment-refractory schizophrenia (CTRS) patients.

Methods

A total of 80 patients were recruited and randomly assigned to receive initial clozapine plus amisulpride (amisulpride group) or clozapine plus placebo (placebo group). Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms (SANS), Clinical Global Impression (CGI) scale scores, Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS), Treatment Emergent Symptom Scale (TESS), laboratory measurements, and electrocardiograms (ECG) were performed at baseline, at week 6, and week 12.

Results

Compared with the placebo group, amisulpride group had a lower PANSS total score, positive subscore, and general psychopathology subscore at week 6 and week 12 (PBonferroni < 0.01). Furthermore, compared with the placebo group, the amisulpride group showed an improved RBANS language score at week 12 (PBonferroni < 0.001). Amisulpride group had a higher treatment response rate (P = 0.04), lower scores of CGI severity and CGI efficacy at week 6 and week 12 than placebo group (PBonferroni < 0.05). There were no differences between the groups in body mass index (BMI), corrected QT (QTc) intervals, and laboratory measurements. This study demonstrates that amisulpride augmentation therapy can safely improve the psychiatric symptoms and cognitive performance of CTRS patients.

Conclusion

This study indicates that amisulpride augmentation therapy has important clinical significance for treating CTRS to improve clinical symptoms and cognitive function with tolerability and safety.

Trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov identifier- NCT03652974. Registered August 31, 2018, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03652974
Corneal reflections and skin contrast yield better memory of human and virtual faces
Authors: Vaitonytė Julija , Alimardani Maryam , Louwerse Max M.
Published: October 2022

Virtual faces have been found to be rated less human-like and remembered worse than photographic images of humans. What it is in virtual faces that yields reduced memory has so far remained unclear. The current study investigated face memory in the context of virtual agent faces and human faces, real and manipulated, considering two factors of predicted influence, i.e., corneal reflections and skin contrast. Corneal reflections referred to the bright points in each eye that occur when the ambient light reflects from the surface of the cornea. Skin contrast referred to the degree to which skin surface is rough versus smooth. We conducted two memory experiments, one with high-quality virtual agent faces (Experiment 1) and the other with the photographs of human faces that were manipulated (Experiment 2). Experiment 1 showed better memory for virtual faces with increased corneal reflections and skin contrast (rougher rather than smoother skin). Experiment 2 replicated these findings, showing that removing the corneal reflections and smoothening the skin reduced memory recognition of manipulated faces, with a stronger effect exerted by the eyes than the skin. This study highlights specific features of the eyes and skin that can help explain memory discrepancies between real and virtual faces and in turn elucidates the factors that play a role in the cognitive processing of faces.