bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AN EFFICIENT APPROACH FOR SOLVING THE FRACTAL, DAMPED CUBIC–QUINTIC DUFFING’S EQUATION
Authors: ELÍAS-ZÚÑIGA ALEX , MARTÍNEZ-ROMERO OSCAR , TREJO DANIEL OLVERA , PALACIOS-PINEDA LUIS MANUEL
Published: November 2023

The main goal of this work is to focus on using He’s two-scale fractal dimension transform, the Caputo–Fabrizio fractional-order derivative, and the harmonic balance and the homotopy methods are applied for deriving the approximate solution of the fractal, damped cubic–quintic Duffing’s equation when the fractional derivative order of the inertia term is not twice of that of the damping term. Numerical results obtained from the derived expressions and the numerical integration solution show good agreement, especially at small values of the nonlinear parameters. Furthermore, when the fractal order of the damping term decreases, the damping oscillation frequency values increase with a decrease in the system wavelength values, which indicates a slower decay in the system oscillation amplitudes. Our solution procedures elucidate the applicability of He’s two-scale fractal dimension transform for solving nonlinear dynamic systems with inertia and damping fractal terms.
Bridging Performance of X (formerly known as Twitter) Users: A Predictor of Subjective Well-Being During the Pandemic
Authors: Chen Ninghan , Chen Xihui , Zhong Zhiqiang , Pang Jun
Published: November 2023

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic triggered the perils of misinformation over social media. By amplifying the spreading speed and popularity of trustworthy information, influential social media users have been helping overcome the negative impacts of such flooding misinformation. In this article, we use the COVID-19 pandemic as a representative global health crisisand examine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on these influential users’ subjective well-being (SWB), one of the most important indicators of mental health. We leverage X (formerly known as Twitter) as a representative social media platform and conduct the analysis with our collection of 37,281,824 tweets spanning almost two years. To identify influential X users, we propose a new measurement called
user bridging performance
(UBM) to evaluate the speed and wideness gain of information transmission due to their sharing. With our tweet collection, we manage to reveal the more significant mental sufferings of influential users during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to this observation, through comprehensive
hierarchical multiple regression analysis
, we are the first to discover the
strong relationship
between individual social users’ subjective well-being and their bridging performance. We proceed to extend
bridging performance
from individuals to user subgroups. The new measurement allows us to conduct a subgroup analysis according to users’ multilingualism and confirm the bridging role of multilingual users in the COVID-19 information propagation. We also find that multilingual users not only suffer from a much lower SWB in the pandemic, but also experienced a more significant SWB drop.
Role of protease-activated receptor 4 in mouse models of acute and chronic kidney injury
Authors: Erreger Kevin , Cao Shirong , Pan Yu , Jiang Mengdi , Zhang Ming-Zhi , Harris Raymond C. , Hamm Heidi E.
Published: November 2023

The contribution of the thrombin receptor protease-activated receptor 4 (PAR4) to acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) is not well understood. Here we report that PAR4 expression is upregulated after kidney injury and PAR4 knockout (KO) mice are protected against fibrosis following kidney injury in two mouse models. First, PAR4 KO mice are protected against unilateral ureter obstruction. Second, PAR4 KO mice are protected against an AKI-CKD model of ischemia-reperfusion followed by contralateral nephrectomy.
Attenuated peripheral oxygen extraction and greater cardiac output in women with posttraumatic stress disorder during exercise
Authors: D’Souza Andrew W. , Yoo Jeung-Ki , Bhai Salman , Sarma Satyam , Anderson Elizabeth H. , Levine Benjamin D. , Fu Qi
Published: November 2023

The current study indicates that V̇o2max is not different between women with and without PTSD; however, women with PTSD exhibit blunted peripheral extraction of oxygen, thus requiring an increase in Q̇c to meet metabolic demand during exercise. Furthermore, following exercise, women with PTSD demonstrate impaired autonomic cardiovascular control relative to sedentary controls. We interpret these data to indicate that women with PTSD demonstrate aberrant cardiovascular responses during and immediately following fatiguing exercise.
Performance of Biopsy Tools in Procurement of Lung Tissue in Robot-Assisted Peripheral Navigation: A Comparison
Authors: Meng William D. , Lum Mendy , Yu Elizabeth , Krishna Ganesh
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Robot-assisted navigation bronchoscopy (RANB) has been gaining traction as a new technology for minimally invasive biopsies of peripheral pulmonary lesions (PPLs). Cryobiopsy is an established method of procuring satisfactory lung tissues and can be safely paired with RANB. While some studies have evaluated the diagnostic accuracy and yield of this procedure, there is limited data on the utility of various biopsy tools, the sequence of use and differences in tissue characteristics based on the sampling techniques. Therefore, this study aims to examine the real-life performance of needle, forceps and cryoprobe when utilized in succession with RANB in the biopsy of PPLs, and to evaluate the specific types of tissue samples obtained from each instrument. Methods: In a single-center retrospective study, 50 patients presenting 52 PPLs underwent biopsies sequentially using fine-needle aspiration (FNA), forceps, and cryoprobe. All procedures were performed via cone-beam CT-assisted RANB. Performance metrics, such as diagnostic yield, sensitivity, and specificity, were determined by classifying malignancy as true positives and explicit benign findings as true negatives. Tissue sizes and subtypes were based on pathology description and compared with Student’s t test and χ2, respectively. Results: Cryobiopsy, when performed sequentially after FNA then forceps, was able to retrieve more alveolar tissue (p = 0.0098) among diagnosed lesions and showed higher diagnostic yield (p = 0.001) in PPL biopsy with RANB platform. Cryobiopsy was also able to obtain larger sample size (p = 0.0087). No difference was observed in the diagnosis of malignancy between forceps and cryobiopsy (p = 0.8877). Conclusion: The integration of RANB and sequential biopsies, utilizing FNA, forceps, and cryoprobe, can efficiently diagnose PPLs and procure alveolar tissues. Further research based on histopathological subtypes is required to assess its prognostic significance.
Geriatric Assessment in Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Woods Justin D. , Klepin Heidi D.
Published: November 2023

Background: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogenous disease that affects mostly older adults with varying baseline health and functional status. Treatment options have expanded for older adults, ranging from less intensive chronic therapies to intensive induction strategies with curative intent. Despite this, outcomes remain poor with advancing age due to underlying disease biology and variability in treatment tolerance. Reliance on chronological age alone, however, increases risks of both over- and under-treatment. Strategies to better characterize fitness in the context of therapy are needed to optimize decision-making and enhance clinical trial design. Summary: Geriatric assessment (GA) is a series of validated tools that evaluate multiple health and functional domains of an older adult including physical function, comorbidities, cognition, nutrition, psychological health, and social support. While studies of GA in AML remain limited, current evidence shows that it is feasible to perform GA among older adults starting therapy for AML. GA measures including those assessing physical function, cognition, and mood are associated with mortality and toxicity in both intensive and less intensive treatment settings. Key Messages: In this review, we discuss the existing evidence to support use of GA in AML and highlight implications for clinical practice and future research.
Anticoagulation in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Elenjickal Elias John , Travlos Christoforos K. , Marques Pedro , Mavrakanas Thomas A.
Published: November 2023

Background: Both atrial fibrillation and venous thromboembolism (VTE) are highly prevalent among patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Until recently, warfarin was the most commonly prescribed oral anticoagulant. Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) have important advantages and have been shown to be noninferior to warfarin with respect to stroke prevention or recurrent VTE in the general population, with lower bleeding rates. This review article will provide available evidence on the use of DOACs in patients with CKD. Summary: In post hoc analyses of major randomized studies with DOACs for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation, in the subgroup of participants with moderate CKD, defined as a creatinine clearance (CrCl) of 30–50 mL/min, dabigatran 150 mg and apixaban were associated with lower rates of stroke and systemic embolism, whereas apixaban and edoxaban were associated with lower bleeding and mortality rates, compared with warfarin. In retrospective observational studies in patients with advanced CKD (defined as a CrCl <30 mL/min) and atrial fibrillation, DOACs had similar efficacy with warfarin with numerically lower bleeding rates. All agents warrant dose adjustment in moderate-to-severe CKD. In patients on maintenance dialysis, the VALKYRIE trial, which was designed initially to study the effect of vitamin K on vascular calcification progression, established superiority for rivaroxaban compared with a vitamin K antagonist (VKA) in the extension phase. Two other clinical trials using apixaban (AXADIA and RENAL-AF) in this population were inconclusive due to recruitment challenges and low event rates. In post hoc analyses of randomized studies with DOACs in patients with VTE, in the subgroup of participants with moderate CKD at baseline, edoxaban was associated with lower rates of recurrent VTE, whereas rivaroxaban and dabigatran were associated with lower and higher bleeding rates, respectively, as compared to warfarin. Key Messages: DOACs have revolutionized the management of atrial fibrillation and VTE, and they should be preferred over warfarin in patients with moderate-to-severe CKD with appropriate dose adjustment. Therapeutic drug monitoring with a valid technique may be considered to guide clinical management in individualized cases. Current evidence questions the need for oral anticoagulation in patients on maintenance dialysis with atrial fibrillation as both DOACs and VKAs are associated with high rates of major bleeding.
"Homeopatia não é efeito placebo": comprovação das evidências científicas da homeopatia
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Medicina, Teixeira Marcus Zulian
Published: November 2023

A homeopatia é uma prática médica reconhecida mundialmente há mais de dois séculos, desenvolvendo atividades de assistência, ensino e pesquisa em diversas instituições de saúde e faculdades de medicina. Emprega uma abordagem clínica baseada em princípios científicos heterodoxos e complementares (princípio da similitude terapêutica, experimentação patogenética homeopática, uso de doses dinamizadas e medicamentos individualizados), com o objetivo de despertar uma resposta curativa do organismo contra seus próprios distúrbios ou doenças. Baseando-se em premissas distintas das empregadas pela prática médica convencional, a homeopatia é muitas vezes alvo de críticas infundadas e generalizadas por parte de indivíduos que, sistematicamente, negam os pressupostos homeopáticos e quaisquer evidências científicas que os comprovem, em vista de uma postura pseudocética e pseudocientífica que impede uma análise correta e isenta de preconceitos. Atuando como terapêutica integrativa e complementar às demais especialidades, a homeopatia pode acrescentar eficácia, efetividade, eficiência e segurança à prática médica, atuando de forma curativa e preventiva, diminuindo as manifestações sintomáticas e a predisposição ao adoecer, com baixo custo e eventos adversos mínimos.
Single-use plastic in Brazil: policies and laws
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola de Artes, Ciências e Humanidades, Gonçalves-Dias Sylmara Lopes Francelino , Vallin Isabella de Carvalho ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola de Artes, Ciências e Humanidades, Carvalho Isabela Ribeiro Borges de ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Instituto de Energia e Ambiente, Dias Beatriz Magalhães ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Instituto de Energia e Ambiente, Corrêa Carolina Berti de Souza ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola de Artes, Ciências e Humanidades, Salles Guilherme dos Santos ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola de Artes, Ciências e Humanidades, Silva Júlia Valle ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola de Artes, Ciências e Humanidades
Published: November 2023

The observation of several members of society about the environmental and social impacts of plastic pollution reverberates in numerous measures to reduce plastic consumption, in Brazil and around the world. In this context, it is relevant to reflect on how society and inserted groups organize themselves to make decisions about something of public interest. Thus, the second volume presents the policies and laws that deal with the problem of plastic in Brazil, and reflects on the strategies employed to solve the challenges imposed by pollution.
Plástico de uso único no Brasil: políticas e leis
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola de Artes, Ciências e Humanidade, Gonçalves-Dias Sylmara Lopes Francelino , Vallin Isabella de Carvalho ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola de Artes, Ciências e Humanidades;, Carvalho Isabela Ribeiro Borges de ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Instituto de Energia e Ambiente, Dias Beatriz Magalhães ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Instituto de Energia e Ambiente, Corrêa Carolina Berti de Souza ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola de Artes, Ciências e Humanidades, Salles Guilherme dos Santos ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola de Artes, Ciências e Humanidades, Silva Júlia Valle ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola de Artes, Ciências e Humanidades
Published: November 2023

A constatação de diversos membros da sociedade acerca dos impactos ambientais e sociais da poluição por plástico reverbera em inúmeras medidas para a redução do consumo de plásticos, no Brasil e ao redor do mundo. Nesse contexto, é relevante refletir sobre sobre como a sociedade e grupos inseridos se organizam para tomar decisões a respeito de algo de interesse público. Assim, o segundo volume apresenta as políticas e leis que tratam da problemática do plástico no Brasil, e reflete sobre as estratégias empregadas para resolver os desafios impostos pela poluição. Esta obra integra a coleção "NOSS Repensando o Plástico".
A tempestade
Authors: Chopin Kate , Siqueira Alexander Barutti Azevedo
Published: November 2023

Tradução do conto “A tempestade”, de Kate Chopin (1850-1904), publicado originalmente em 1898 e de domínio público. A tradução é acompanhada de uma breve apresentação, com informações sobre a autora, o conto e a justificativa da escolha de traduzi-lo, bem como a base teórica do tradutor. O texto traz notas explicativas de certas escolhas feitas pelo tradutor.
The Concatenating Relationship between Political Clientelism and Citizen Quiescence in Kenya
Authors: Mutuku Richard K. , Owuoche Solomon O. , Jonyo Fred O.
Published: November 2023

Political clientelism is an intractable problem that neuters transparent governance and public accountability in Kenya. On the one hand, is the patron (ruler/politician), and on the other hand, a client (voter) who engages in a reciprocal exchange of tokens, monetary donations, and favors to extract benefits from one another. Often, the patron gains by garnering loyalty from voters, while the client may benefit from small rewards such as monetary gains and favors. Such a dyadic relationship yields an unequal reciprocal exchange between the two agents. The aim of this study is to investigate the extent to which political clientelism influences citizen inaction (quiescence) when demanding public accountability from their patrons in Kenya. The study applied a mixed-method technique. The primary data was collected from a sample of 100 respondents drawn from Nairobi City County using self-administered questionnaires. The data was analyzed using SPSS to perform both descriptive and inferential statistics. The results revealed a direct relationship between political clientelism and citizen quiescence, yielding R(98) = 0.896, p < 0.05, and R2 0.803. The findings indicate that political clientelism could explain 80.3% of the variance in predicting citizen quiescence. In other words, the researchers concluded that citizens were less likely to demand more accountability from political leaders in an environment undergirded by high levels of clientelism.
An Embodiment of Hope and Unanticipated Horror: Civil Society’s Expectations and Views on the Transition from Mugabe to Mnangagwa
Authors: Mutekwe Paddington
Published: November 2023

The forceful removal of Robert Mugabe in 2017 brought about high expectations of political transformation and debates on civil society’s role in Mugabe’s downfall. This paper examines civil society’s role in the removal of Mugabe and the continuities and changes brought by the Emerson Mnangagwa regime. The paper contributes to studies that convincingly show that the Mnangagwa regime has failed to bring fundamental change to the ‘new dispensation.’ However, these studies do not capture civil society’s role in Mugabe’s downfall, its expectations of life after Mugabe, and people’s lived experiences in the new dispensation. This paper locates this gap in the methodology employed by studies on the transition from Mugabe to Mnangagwa – these studies mostly analyzed policy documents, published literature, and newspapers. This methodology did not capture the voices of grassroots activists and organizations. Therefore, this paper used in-depth interviews to capture civil society’s role in the downfall of Mugabe, its expectations of the new dispensation, and its lived experiences in the new dispensation. The paper argues that civil society played a sanitizing role in the ZANU-PF factional battles and the new dispensation that was an embodiment of hope has turned out to be an unanticipated horror since the expectations that the masses had have not been met.
Transnational Mobilities in Search of Refuge
Authors: Onanuga Ayobami Olajumoke , Onanuga Paul Ayodele
Published: November 2023

Geographical considerations continue to manifest in and influence the narratives surrounding non-heteronormative sexualities. Within this context, borders become central to the politics of inclusion-exclusion. In this study, we engage Jude Dibia’s Walking with Shadows, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s “The Shivering,” and Uzondinma Iweala’s Speak No Evil in view of their engagement of the tripodal issues of homosexuality, home and migration. We interrogate the depictions and counterbalances evoked by the juxtaposition of the artistic motifs of ‘home’ versus migration; and argue that this dichotomy is wielded firstly as a form of escape from a judgmental ‘home’ and then as a means of providing a contrastive engagement of the perception of homosexuality within different territorial borders. Such transnational enactments of mobilities, we believe, also constitute platforms though which these authors channel energies and support on the way to soliciting acknowledgement and acceptance for people of alternative sexualities.
Preparation and Surface Modification of Nanocellulose and Its Adsorption Performance on Cu2+
Authors: Yang Yantao , Li Yuanna , Yang Wenkai , Cui Xiunan , Lei Tingzhou
Published: November 2023

Nanocellulose fibers (NCFs) were converted to cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) and then modified with diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (DTPA) to form modified CNCs (DTPA–CNCs), which were investigated as adsorbents for removing Cu2+ from aqueous solution. The adsorption
behavior was affected by pH, contact time, dosage and raw Cu2+ concentration. Langmuir model is the best method to fit the adsorption isotherm of experimental results. The optimal conditions for Cu2+ adsorption were 2 h at 35 °C and pH 3, the optimal adsorption capacity
is 94.5 mg/g. These functional groups on the DTPA–CNCs provided enhanced adsorption capacity, compared with unmodified NCFs.
Cleaning Process of Diosgenin from Dioscorea nipponica
Authors: Liu Jinwei , Xu Weichang , Yan Feng , Liu Xinqi , Wang Yuan
Published: November 2023

This investigation employed HPLC and LC-MS techniques to elucidate the enzymolysis and acid hydrolysis mechanisms of diosgenin obtained through a cleaning process. The findings revealed that the enzymolysis led to the cleavage and subsequent recombination of the glycosidic bond at the
C-26 position of protodioscin, resulting in the formation of dioscin present in the enzymatic hydrolysis filter residue. Leveraging this observation, a streamlined and eco-friendly method for diosgenin extraction was devised. Incorporating the Box-Behnken response surface methodology alongside
wastewater assessment, the optimal parameters for the cleaning process were established: a sulfuric acid concentration of 3 mol · L−1, a solid–liquid ratio of 1:10, an acid hydrolysis temperature of 100 °C, and an acid hydrolysis duration of 3 h. Under these
parameters, the yield and purity of diosgenin were 31.07±0.56% and 72.30±0.24% respectively. When benchmarked against the direct acid hydrolysis approach, there was an increase of 133.08% in diosgenin yield, 44.08% enhancement in diosgenin purity, 50% reduction in wastewater
generation and acid utilization, and an 83.57% decrease in wastewater’s chemical oxygen demand (COD). This optimized cleaning process is viable for large-scale production and offers a sustainable method for diosgenin production.
Analysis of the Therapeutic Effect of Shengmai Yin Chinese Herbal Medicine in Pneumonia
Authors: Wang Lili , Yi Shoucong
Published: November 2023

Health education is an important method to improve patients’ cognitive level and quality of life. Shengmai Yin (SMY) contain a variety of active ingredients of Chinese herbal medicine, pathology effect is relatively broad, plays an important role in a variety of chronic diseases
treatment. This study aims to analyze the effect of nursing health education combined with the treatment with SMY on elderly patients with community-acquired pneumonia. Meanwhile, pharmaceutical information regarding the chemical composition, pharmacological effects, and pharmacokinetic characteristics
of SMY in traditional Chinese medicine was summarized and analyzed. Animal experiments were conducted to analyze the immunomodulatory effects of SMY on elderly community acquired pneumonia. A total of 80 elderly patients with community-acquired pneumonia admitted to our hospital from July
2019 to July 2022 were selected as the research objects. According to different nursing models, they were divided into a control group and a study group, with 40 cases in each group. Patients in the control group were given routine nursing, while patients in the study group were given health
education nursing and SMY treament on the basis of the control group. The overall differences were compared between the two groups. In rat experiment, a rat model of chronic bronchitis was used and divided into control, model control group, low-dose group, medium-dose group, and high-dose
group according to the dosage. The levels of immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG, IgM), and cytokines (IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α) in rat serum were determined using ELISA. The disease knowledge, the quality of life score and the effect of health education of the study group was better than that
of the control group (P < 0.05), the temperature remission time of the two groups was not significantly different (P > 0.05), but the respiratory rate remission time and cough remission time were shorter than that of the control group (P < 0.05). In rat experiment,
The levels of IgA, IgG, IgM, IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α in the serum of the model control group were higher than those in the normal control group. Compared with those in the model control group, the low-dose group exhibited lower levels of IgG, IgM, and IL-1, whereas the medium- and
high-dose groups exhibited lower levels of IgA, IgG, IgM, IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α (all P < 0.05). Health education and SMY treatment have a good impact on elderly patients with community-acquired pneumonia, which can effectively improve the patients’ mastery of health
knowledge, treatment effect and quality of life. In addition, SMY had a significant downregulating effect on immunity and cytokines, providing anti-infective, antiallergic, and immunomodulatory effects, and is hence effective in treating bronchitis.
Anomaly Detection in Species Distribution Patterns: A Spatio-Temporal Approach for Biodiversity Conservation
Authors: He Mingyang , Chen Hao
Published: November 2023

Monitoring and maintaining biodiversity are crucial for the ecological balance and overall health of ecosystems. Detecting anomalies in species distribution patterns is essential for identifying areas of concern and implementing timely conservation measures. This paper introduces an
approach to detect anomalies in spatiotemporal species activity data by integrating time series analysis, machine learning techniques, and spatial statistics. Our method identifies distribution patterns of various species and groups regions with similar patterns, enabling the segmentation
of the study area into distinct categories. Within these categorized regions, we apply a combination of clustering algorithms and outlier detection techniques to pinpoint anomalous behaviors in species distribution. In order to confirm the reliability of our findings, we cross-reference them
with verified data acquired through field observations or other credible data sources. These corroborations indicate that anomalies are frequently indicative of sudden variations in species numbers or unexpected alterations in spatial distribution at certain places and times. To gain a more
robust understanding of how species are distributed, we curate a data set that excludes these anomalous observations and use it to develop a predictive algorithm. Our analysis shows that a predictive model trained on this refined, anomaly-free dataset achieves a lower normalized mean square
error (NMSE), which suggests a higher level of predictive accuracy as compared to a model trained on data containing anomalies. Utilizing this methodology can facilitate the creation of effective conservation plans and contribute to more sustainable ecosystem management.
Genome-Wide Identification of BrassinaZole Resistant (BZR) Gene Family in Brassica rapa ssp. pekinensis and Its Expression Pattern During Flowering Process
Authors: Qi Xianhui , Du Zeguang , Zhang Fengqin , Li Meilan , Li Gaizhen
Published: November 2023

The BrassinaZole Resistant (BZR) gene family mediates the signal transduction of brassinolide, which is vital in regulating vegetative and reproductive growth of plants. In this research, a comprehensive analysis of all candidate BrBZR genes in Chinese cabbage (Brassica
rapa ssp. pekinensis) was conducted using bioinformatics methods, including protein physicochemical properties, evolutionary relationship, gene structure, and conserved domains. Additionally, these candidate genes’ expression patterns during flowering development were analyzed
utilizing transcriptome data, and key genes that regulate flowering of Chinese cabbage were screened. In the results, 14 BrBZR genes were identified, with coding sequence (CDS) lengths of 460–1162 bp, and encoding proteins of 152–386 amino acids. The majority of BrBZRs
had a highly conserved motif 1 as well as numerous regulatory elements associated with hormone and abiotic stress responses. Transcriptome sequencing showed that 12 BrBZRs were expressed during the flowering development, among which BrBES1.1 and BrBES1.2 were highly expressed,
with FPKM ranges of 61.78–99.91 and 43.71–76.69, respectively. Their expression was upregulated during vernalization and flower bud differentiation, suggesting that they may play a key role in regulating the flowering process of Chinese cabbage. Overall, our study provides comprehensive
insights into the BrBZR gene family, and has important implications for the further elucidation of the mechanisms that regulate flower development in Chinese cabbage and potentially other related Brassica species.
Molecular Mechanisms of Phyllanthus urinaria in Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Qin Deyuan , Wei Jiangcun , Ma Xiumei , Qing Bing , Qiu Meiyan , Yang Peng , Yang Zhengteng
Published: November 2023

Phyllanthus urinaria (P. urinaria), a prominent herb in traditional Zhuang medicine, is characterized by its heat clearance, detoxification, diuresis, and detumescence. This study investigates the therapeutic effects and molecular mechanisms of P. urinaria on cerebral
ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI). 60 adult SD rats were randomly divided into four groups: a sham operation group, a model group of right middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO), a low-dose group treated with P. urinaria at 5 g/kg, and a high-dose group treated with P. urinaria
at 10 g/kg, each consisting of 15 rats. After seven days of continuous administration, a rat model of the right MCAO was established to simulate CIRI. Nerve function was assessed using the Longa scoring method, the cerebral infarction area was evaluated with TTC staining, and cytokine levels
(IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6) were measured via ELISA. PI3K and AKT protein expression in brain tissues was analyzed by Western blot. The results revealed a significant improvement in neurological function scores in both low and high-dose P. urinaria groups compared
to the MCAO model group. Treatment with P. urinaria led to a notable reduction in cerebral infarction area after 72 hours of cerebral ischemia. The levels of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6) were decreased in both treatment groups compared to the
MCAO model group. There was a significant increase in the expression of PI3K and AKT proteins in both treatment groups. In conclusion, P. urinaria exhibits a protective effect against CIRI by inhibiting inflammatory responses, improving neurological function, and reducing brain injury.
Effect of Steam Explosion on the Structure, Chemical Composition and Pyrolytic Volatile Composition of Tobacco Waste
Authors: Liu Ze , Xu Gaoxiang , Song Chenhao , Zuo Wen , Li Siyuan , Gui Chao , Liu Na , Hu Peng , Yang Ji , Zhou Guofu , Zhang Wei , Chen Yubao
Published: November 2023

Tobacco stems are an important part of the tobacco leaf, containing a lot of cellulose, result in the low utilization of tobacco leaves in cigarettes. The pre-treatment technology of tobacco stems is a key to increase the utilization of tobacco stems. In this work, steam explosion treatment
was carried out on tobacco stems with different moisture contents containing 2%, 5% and 10%, respectively. The steam explosion is carried out under different pressure and pressure holding time conditions, the changes in physical structure, chemical composition and pyrolysis volatiles of tobacco
stem was investigated. The results indicate that steam explosion has a negligible impact on the crystalline structure of cellulose and low-order polysaccharide crystals, while it has an obvious effect on KCl. Steam explosion increases the specific surface area by destroying the amorphous structure
on tobacco stems. The contents of chemical constituents and pyrolytic volatiles indicate that there is a significant leaching effect of lignin, but no change in cellulose content. Soluble polysaccharides, the main component of hemicellulose, were converted into pyrolytic volatiles e.g., furfural
and furfuryl alcohol. In conclusion, the technology of steam explosion promotes the leaching, decomposition and chemical transformation of amorphous structures on tobacco stems, thus destroying the structure of the cell walls.
The Expression of Circ_0000615 in Tenon’s Capsule Fibroblasts and Its Effect on Cell Proliferation and Migration
Authors: Wang Yanxi , Chen Xing , Yang Zhenhua , Yu Xuelin , Xu Manhua , Kang Gangjin
Published: November 2023

To explore the expression of circ_0000615 in HTFs and its effect on cell proliferation and migration. With in vitro culture of HTFs, qRT-PCR was performed to detect the expression of circ_0000615 in HTFs. Cells in logarithmic phase were taken for subsequent experiments, and the
following groups were constructed, including HTF blank control group (C group); HTFs+10 ng/mL TGF-β1 group (TGF-β1 group); HTFs+si-NC group (si-NC group); and HTFs+si-circ_0000615 group (si-circ_0000615 group). CCK-8 assay was performed to detect cell proliferation,
Cell Monoclonal Assay was used to detect Cell Monoclonal Formationand, Transwell assay was conducted simultaneously to detect cell migration. According to the results of qRT-PCR, compared with C group, after induction of HTFs with TGF-β1 for 24 h and 48 h, TGF-β1 group
showed significantly increased expressions of circ_0000615, with statistically significant differences (P < 0.05). After induction of HTFs with TGF-β1, compared with C group, TGF-β1 group had enhanced cell proliferation, monoclonal formation and migration,
showing statistically significant differences (P < 0.05). Furthermore, after cell transfections for HTFs, compared with si-NC group, si-circ_0000615 group showed obviously downregulated expression of circ_0000615 in HTFs, accompanied by evidently weakened cell proliferation, monoclonal
formation and migration, statistically significant differences (P < 0.05). Circ_0000615 is highly expressed in HTFs. A silenced expression of circ_0000615 may inhibit the proliferation and migration of HTFs.
Effect of miR-21 Inhibitor Coated with Ferric Oxide on Ovarian Cancer Cells Through Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Signaling Pathway
Authors: Qian Weiwei , Feng Wen
Published: November 2023

Ovarian cancer (OC) incidence has in recent years been on the rise among common gynecological cancers. Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs), as emerging nanomedicines, have been widely used in research on cancer therapy. However, with in-depth research on microRNA (miRNA), the effect of
combining miRNA with nanoparticles on ovarian cancer is not yet clear. We deeply explored the mechanism of IONPs loading miRNA to regulate ovarian cancer cells. In this study, novelmiR-21 inhibitor-IONPs nanoparticles were prepared by loading miR-21 inhibitor into IONPs. Electron microscopy
was used to observe nano-encapsulation and miR-21 expression was measured along with analysis of cell proliferation, apoptosis by flow cytometry, and phosphorylation of apoptotic proteins and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways by Western blot. Our results showed that
miR-21 inhibitor-IONPs reduced miR-21 expression, thereby inhibiting ovarian cancer cells activities and promoting apoptosis. miR-21 inhibitor-IONPs also inhibited p-p38MAPK and p-ERK levels, which were increased after addition of MAPK agonist (U-46619). Moreover, ovarian cancer cell proliferation
increased and apoptosis decreased. miR-21 inhibitor-IONPs can thus inhibit MAPK signaling, thereby reducing the activities of ovarian cancer cells. This study provides theoretical support for application of miR-21 inhibitor-IONPs as novel nanoparticles for the treatment of ovarian cancer.
Enhancing Glioma Treatment by Using Novel Cryptotanshinone-Loaded Nano-Liposomes
Authors: Shi Zuolin , Chen Mengjia , Chen Ligang , Zou Zheng , Gong Shun , Liang Guobiao
Published: November 2023

Despite the efficacy of cryptotanshinone (CPT) against glioma, it has issues such as poor solubility and limited tumor penetration. To address these challenges, the development of a nano drug delivery system with high penetration and precise targeting is crucial. In this study, we utilized
the emulsification-evaporation technique to create tLyp-1 modified liposomes that contain CPT. The tLyp-1 peptide, which is a membrane-penetrating agent, allows for precise targeting of brain glioma and drug release. We characterized the TLCP using particle size, polydispersity index (PDI),
intracellular fluorescence, and transmission electron microscopy and found that it had a mean particle size of (169.1±22.0) nm and a PDI of 0.34±0.093. High performance liquid chromatography was used to quantify the encapsulation efficiency (74.33±8.9%). Our results showed
that tLipo, the targeting liposome modified with tLyp-1, was taken up more by GL261 cells than regular liposomes. The intracellular fluorescence intensity of the tLipo group also increased. Fluorescence was observed in the mouse brain 0.5 h after tail vein injection of DiR-labeled tLipo, confirming
its ability to penetrate the blood–brain barrier (BBB). The fluorescence was still present in the brain 24 h later. Our results further confirmed the BBB-penetration and anti-glioma efficacy of the nanodrug in reducing glioma cell growth.
Canary Categories
Authors: Anderson Eric , Chen Chaoqun , Israeli Ayelet , Simester Duncan
Published: November 2023

Past customer spending in a category is generally a positive signal of future customer spending. Analyses of historical data at two retailers demonstrate that there exist “canary categories” for which the reverse is true. Purchases in these categories are a signal that customers are less likely to return to that retailer. The authors propose an explanation for the existence of canary categories and then develop a stylized model that illustrates four contributing factors: the probability that a customer finds their favorite brand, customers’ willingness to substitute brands, the cost and attractiveness of visiting other stores, and expectations about future brand availability. The analysis uses both field data and experiments to investigate these factors. The findings suggest that canary categories exist (at least in part) because store assortments are not completely adjusted to local preferences. An implication is that canary categories are endogenous to each retailer; the same category may be a canary category at one retailer and a destination category at a competing retailer.
Lessons Learned From Applying a Monitoring and Evaluation Framework to Economic, Social, and Other Health Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Laurent Amy A. , Vo Linda , Wong Eva Y.
Published: November 2023

Individual and community-level COVID-19 mitigation policies can have effects beyond direct COVID-19 health outcomes, including social, behavioral, and economic outcomes. These social, behavioral, and economic outcomes can extend beyond the pandemic period and have disparate effects on populations. Public Health–Seattle & King County (PHSKC) built on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s community mitigation strategy framework to create a local project tracking near–real-time data to understand factors affected by mitigation approaches, inform decision-making, and monitor and evaluate community-level disparities during the pandemic. This case study describes the framework and lessons learned from PHSKC’s collation, use, and dissemination of local data from 20 data sources to guide community and public health decision-making. Social, behavioral, economic, and health indicators were regularly updated and disseminated through interactive dashboards and products that examined data in the context of applicable policies. Data disaggregated by demographic characteristics and geography highlighted inequities, but not all datasets contained the same details; local surveys or qualitative data were used to fill gaps. Project outcomes included informing city and county emergency response planning related to implementation of financial and food assistance programs. Key lessons learned included the need to (1) build on existing processes and use automated processes and (2) partner with other sectors to use nontraditional public health data for active dissemination and data disaggregation and for real-time data contextualized by policy changes. This project provided programs and communities with timely, reliable data to understand where to invest recovery funding. A similar framework could position other health departments to examine social and economic effects during future public health emergencies.
Analysis of performance properties of retro-reflective woven fabrics made with retro-reflective yarns and natural yarns
Authors: Seidu Raphael Kanyire , Jiang Shouxiang
Published: November 2023

Retro-reflective (RR) materials have been the subject of recent interest largely due to their ability to ensure personal safety on the road. Their use limits vehicle–pedestrian collisions, especially at night-time. Studies have mainly developed RR textiles for aesthetics and reported on their appearance performance accordingly. This study, however, investigates the mechanical and functional properties of RR fabrics produced with RR yarns and natural yarns. The results reveal that the woven fabrics have radiative cooling effects to transmit body heat to the environment, and a good ultraviolet protection rating (15–35) with a transmittance rate below 6% depending on the weave structure. The contact angle measurements reveal that the surface of these fabrics is hydrophobic or has low wettability. The total hand value for the fabric shows their suitability for men’s dress shirts in the winter or thin women’s dresses.
Commentary: Key Aspects of Multimodal Prehabilitation in Surgical Patients With Cancer. A Practical Approach to Integrating Resistance Exercise Programs
Authors: Laza-Cagigas Roberto , Seijo Marcos , Swaine Ian , Rampal Tara , Naclerio Fernando
Published: November 2023

Surgical prehabilitation aims to optimise patients’ physiological reserves to better withstand the stress of surgery, reduce the risk of postoperative complications, and promote a faster and optimal recovery. The purpose of this commentary is to outline the key aspects of prehabilitation before surgery for cancer which seem to impact its effectiveness and wider implementation. Particular attention is paid to the role and integration of resistance training programmes as a key component of multimodal prehabilitation for patients with cancer. We firstly analyse some of the barriers currently hindering the implementation of prehabilitation programmes in the National Health Service (United Kingdom). Later, we describe essential aspects of resistance training design, such as exercise modality and order execution, volume and intensity, rest periods between sets or exercises, and workout frequency. Furthermore, we propose a methodology to use the perception of effort to control patients’ progression during a prehabilitation programme.
Protracted development in child heritage Spanish: Evidence from inalienable possession
Authors: Cuza Alejandro , Solano-Escobar Laura
Published: November 2023

The present study examined the production of inalienable possession with body parts in Spanish among 20 school-age children of Mexican-born parents born and raised in the United States. The results were compared to those of 20 first-generation immigrant parents (main input providers), 27 Spanish-dominant children of similar age, and 12 Spanish monolingual parents living in Mexico. Group and individual results obtained via a question-and-answer task showed low proportion of clitic se plus the definite determiner (e.g. Ella se rompió el brazo ‘She broke her arm’) among the heritage children in their production of the inalienable construal. The heritage children significantly overextended the possessive determiner instead of the definite determiner in contrast to their parents, the Spanish-dominant children and monolingual parents. Results also showed a significant role for dominance and language experience in the degree of morphosyntactic variability among heritage children, supporting recent research. The higher the Spanish dominance and the more Spanish contact and use the heritage children had, the more they aligned closer to their parents and the Spanish-dominant children in the use of the definite determiner. There were no divergences with the use of the definite determiner in alienable contexts. We argue for protracted development in child heritage Spanish stemming from crosslinguistic influence effects, minority language dominance and linguistic experience.
Prescribing and deprescribing in older people with life-limiting illnesses receiving hospice care at the end of life: A longitudinal, retrospective cohort study
Authors: Alwidyan Tahani , McCorry Noleen K , Black Chris , Coulter Rachel , Forbes June , Parsons Carole
Published: November 2023

Background:

Although prescribing and deprescribing practices in older people have been the subject of much research generally, there are limited data in older people at the end of life. This highlights the need for research to determine prescribing and deprescribing patterns, as a first step to facilitate guideline development for medicines optimisation in this vulnerable population.

Aims:

To examine prescribing and deprescribing patterns in older people at the end of life and to determine the prevalence of potentially inappropriate medication use.

Design:

A longitudinal, retrospective cohort study where medical records of eligible participants were reviewed, and data extracted. Medication appropriateness was assessed using two sets of consensus-based criteria; the STOPPFrail criteria and criteria developed by Morin et al.

Setting/participants:

Decedents aged 65 years and older admitted continuously for at least 14 days before death to three inpatient hospice units across Northern Ireland, who died between 1st January and 31st December 2018, and who had a known diagnosis, known cause of death and prescription data. Unexpected/sudden deaths were excluded.

Results:

Polypharmacy was reported to be continued until death in 96.2% of 106 decedents (mean age of 75.6 years). Most patients received at least one potentially inappropriate medication at the end of life according to the STOPPFrail and the criteria developed by Morin et al. (57.5 and 69.8% respectively). Limited prevalence of proactive deprescribing interventions was observed.

Conclusions:

In the absence of systematic rationalisation of drug treatments, a substantial proportion of older patients continued to receive potentially inappropriate medication until death.
I was only sixteen
Authors: Ferrari Andrea , Silva Matteo , Patriccioli Alice , Signoroni Stefano , Massimino Maura
Published: November 2023

This short piece describes a new project developed by the adolescent patients with cancer involved in the Youth Project at the Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori in Milan, Italy. This is a scheme dedicated to young cancer patients with the dual aim of optimizing medical aspects of their care and promoting a holistic approach to their needs. “ I was only sixteen” is a ballad, written in English by the patients, that became a song with the help of professional musicians (and among them international star Tony Hadley, former frontman of Spandau Ballet). This song sounds like hymn to life for teenagers with cancer in the world. It emphasizes again the value of giving young patients novel creative ways to express themselves.