bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blood Markers Predicting Clinically Occult Lymph Node Metastasis in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Gaudioso Piergiorgio , Borsetto Daniele , Polesel Jerry , Tirelli Giancarlo , Emanuelli Enzo , Menegaldo Anna , Molteni Gabriele , Nicolai Piero , Tomasoni Michele , Montenegro Claudia , Piazza Cesare , Bossi Paolo , Ciorba Andrea , Canzi Pietro , Giacomarra Vittorio , Giudici Fabiola , Fussey Jonathan , Boscolo-Rizzo Paolo
Published: November 2023

Introduction: The presence of cervical lymph node metastases is an unfavorable prognostic factor in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and a potential cause of treatment failure. Occult lymph node metastasis occurs in approximately 15–20% of HNSCC patients with a clinically negative neck (cN0), greatly impacting on their prognosis. The present study aimed to investigate the role of pre-treatment peripheral blood markers in predicting clinically occult cervical lymph node metastasis. Methods: This multicenter, retrospective study was performed in a cohort of 472 patients diagnosed with cN0 HNSCC who underwent up-front surgery. Baseline neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), systemic inflammatory marker (SIM), and systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) were calculated from available blood parameters. Results: Oro-hypopharyngeal and oral cancers, locally advanced stage, moderately (G2), and poorly (G3) differentiated grade were associated with an increased risk of pathological lymph node involvement. NLR, LMR, PLR, SIM, and SII were significantly associated at multivariable analysis. NLR >2.12 was the most reliable at predicting occult lymph node metastasis (OR = 5.22; 95% CI: 2.14–12.75). We describe a predictive score integrating cancer site, local stage, and NLR which is effective at predicting positive lymph node pathological status. Conclusions: The present study provides evidence that pre-treatment peripheral blood markers, in particular NLR, represent reliable predictors of clinically occult cervical lymph node metastasis in cN0 HNSCC. Therefore, the present study provides a novel useful predictive score for directing the elective management of the neck in patients with cN0 HNSCC.
Role of Gut Microbiota in Statin-Associated New-Onset Diabetes—A Cross-Sectional and Prospective Analysis of the FINRISK 2002 Cohort
Authors: Koponen Kari , Kambur Oleg , Joseph Bijoy , Ruuskanen Matti O. , Jousilahti Pekka , Salido Rodolfo , Brennan Caitriona , Jain Mohit , Meric Guillaume , Inouye Michael , Lahti Leo , Niiranen Teemu , Havulinna Aki S. , Knight Rob , Salomaa Veikko
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND:

Dyslipidemia is treated effectively with statins, but treatment has the potential to induce new-onset type-2 diabetes. Gut microbiota may contribute to this outcome variability. We assessed the associations of gut microbiota diversity and composition with statins. Bacterial associations with statin-associated new-onset type-2 diabetes (T2D) risk were also prospectively evaluated.

METHODS:

We examined shallow-shotgun-sequenced fecal samples from 5755 individuals in the FINRISK-2002 population cohort with a 17+-year-long register-based follow-up. Alpha-diversity was quantified using Shannon index and beta-diversity with Aitchison distance. Species-specific differential abundances were analyzed using general multivariate regression. Prospective associations were assessed with Cox regression. Applicable results were validated using gradient boosting.

RESULTS:

Statin use associated with differing taxonomic composition (R
2
, 0.02%; q=0.02) and 13 differentially abundant species in fully adjusted models (MaAsLin; q<0.05). The strongest positive association was with
Clostridium sartagoforme
(β=0.37; SE=0.13; q=0.02) and the strongest negative association with
Bacteroides cellulosilyticus
(β=−0.31; SE=0.11; q=0.02). Twenty-five microbial features had significant associations with incident T2D in statin users, of which only
Bacteroides vulgatus
(HR, 1.286 [1.136–1.457]; q=0.03) was consistent regardless of model adjustment. Finally, higher statin-associated T2D risk was seen with
[Ruminococcus] torques
(ΔHR
statins
, +0.11; q=0.03),
Blautia obeum
(ΔHR
statins
, +0.06; q=0.01),
Blautia
sp
. KLE 1732
(ΔHR
statins
, +0.05; q=0.01), and beta-diversity principal component 1 (ΔHR
statin
, +0.07; q=0.03) but only when adjusting for demographic covariates.

CONCLUSIONS:

Statin users have compositionally differing microbiotas from nonusers. The human gut microbiota is associated with incident T2D risk in statin users and possibly has additive effects on statin-associated new-onset T2D risk.
2023 American Heart Association and American Academy of Pediatrics Focused Update on Neonatal Resuscitation: An Update to the American Heart Association Guidelines for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiovascular Care
Authors: Yamada Nicole K. , Szyld Edgardo , Strand Marya L. , Finan Emer , Illuzzi Jessica L. , Kamath-Rayne Beena D. , Kapadia Vishal S. , Niermeyer Susan , Schmölzer Georg M. , Williams Amanda , Weiner Gary M. , Wyckoff Myra H. , Lee Henry C. ,   on behalf of the American Heart Association and American Academy of Pediatrics
Published: November 2023

This 2023 focused update to the neonatal resuscitation guidelines is based on 4 systematic reviews recently completed under the direction of the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation Neonatal Life Support Task Force. Systematic reviewers and content experts from this task force performed comprehensive reviews of the scientific literature on umbilical cord management in preterm, late preterm, and term newborn infants, and the optimal devices and interfaces used for administering positive-pressure ventilation during resuscitation of newborn infants. These recommendations provide new guidance on the use of intact umbilical cord milking, device selection for administering positive-pressure ventilation, and an additional primary interface for administering positive-pressure ventilation.
Lexical Field Theory and the Translation of Philosophical Works into Chinese
Authors: Kwan Tze-wan
Published: November 2023

The translation of philosophical works is a topic that merits our attention both in respect of philosophical understanding and linguistic structure, although it is the former rather than the latter that prevails in discussions in Chinese academia. By drawing upon that branch of modern linguistics known as the lexical field theory, this paper attempts to analyze a host of related problems, including the following: readability as a basic requirement of translation, difficulties in translation caused by the syntactic-typological distance of source and target languages, consistency of translated terms in general, consistency of semantically related terms in translation, consistency of translated terms regarding the syntagmatic axis and the paradigmatic axis, the use of monosyllabic, disyllabic, or polysyllabic Chinese terms in translation, translation of long or rare terms into Chinese, the middle way between ‘under-translation’ and ‘over-translation,’ identification of lexical fields for the systematic treatment of translated terms, and finally the in-depth understanding of original texts in their source languages as a prerequisite of any serious attempt of translation.
The Reception and Enforcement of International Law in the EU Legal Order
Authors: Cremona Marise
Published: November 2023

This contribution focuses on one aspect of the complex relationship between EU law and international law: the reception and enforcement of international law in the EU legal order, from the perspective of EU law itself. Starting with the principles through which the EU’s international treaties and customary international law are declared to be “part of the EU legal order”, it turns to the place of international treaty obligations in the EU’s hierarchy of norms. The enforcement of international law norms is then considered from different jurisdictional perspectives: enforcement in national courts, judicial review proceedings before the Court of Justice and enforcement actions against Member States. Threading through these questions of reception and enforcement we find a certain level of ambivalence and ambiguity: while international law may be characterised as “an integral part” of EU law, the principle of the autonomy of EU law leads to an emphasis on the separation between EU and international law and influences the real impact of the latter.
Treaty Interpretation in the EU: Ensuring Consistency with the bona fide Principle and jus cogens
Authors: Baratta Roberto
Published: November 2023

Treaty interpretation in the EU involves not only the observance of principles governing the interpretation of international agreements, but also the observance of substantive rules of international law applicable in the relations between the parties. While compliance with the former rarely presents an issue for the EU Court of Justice, perhaps because of the open-ended character of rules on treaty interpretation, its judicial practice shows the importance of carefully interpreting treaties so as to ensure their full consistency with customary international rules of a peremptory nature, such as the principle of self-determination of peoples. The Western Sahara saga is illustrative in this regard. These issues are addressed by the article.
Sanctions, Collective Countermeasures and the EU
Authors: Gestri Marco
Published: November 2023

The invasion of Ukraine has prompted the EU, together with other like-minded States, to adopt unprecedented economic sanctions against Russia; the international legality of autonomous sanctions is consequently under the spotlight. This article discusses EU practice concerning the adoption of sanctions (or “restrictive measures”) against non-member States with a view to determining its influence upon the development of international law. After a concise overview of EU sanctions law and policy, the article underlines that, if the majority of EU measures can be qualified as retorsions, some appear to be in conflict with international obligations deriving from treaty or customary international law. Particular attention is given to the issue of whether EU autonomous sanctions can find a legal justification, under customary international law, in an independent sanctioning competence of the EU, as a regional organisation and a multilateral actor, or in the notion of “collective countermeasures”. The article concludes that de lege lata these legal foundations are controversial. On the other hand, it underscores the unique contribution given by EU practice to the development in international law of the concept of collective countermeasures and to the consolidation of the principles of the indivisibility of human rights, democracy and the rule of law.
The Conflict in Ukraine and Its Implications for the United Nations System of Collective Security
Authors: Arcari Maurizio
Published: November 2023

The armed conflict following the decision of Russia to launch a “special military operation” in Ukraine has put under severe stress the whole system of collective security of the United Nations. The Security Council was deadlocked from the very beginning of the crisis by the Russian veto, and any operative decision by that organ proved impossible. The General Assembly was convened in emergency special session and, within the first year of the conflict, managed to adopt six resolutions, inter alia determining that the Russian military operation against Ukraine constituted an aggression and declaring the invalidity of the attempts by Russia to alter the status of the Ukrainian territory under military occupation. The International Court of Justice was the only UN principal organ that proved able to issue a binding order on the matter, by indicating provisional measures demanding the immediate cessation of hostilities. The present article considers the impact of the conflict in Ukraine on the functioning of the UN organs involved, the legal implications of the actions attempted by these organs to manage the crisis, as well as the legal hurdles that impaired the effectiveness of such attempts.
How does jus contra bellum apply to States in their Relations with the Self-proclaimed Republics in the Donbass?
Authors: Lagerwall Anne
Published: November 2023

The escalation in February 2022 of the conflict between Ukraine and Russia that first began in 2014 has not been the subject of particularly divergent opinions from an international legal perspective. The overwhelming majority of States and authors condemn the Russian military operations as a blatant act of aggression pursued in violation of the United Nations Charter. Yet, it might be useful to examine the reactions prompted by the main argument deployed by Russia as to the right of the Peoples’ Republics of Donetsk and Luhansk to benefit from military assistance by virtue of collective self-defence recognized in customary international law and codified in Article 51 of the United Nations Charter. This argument raises the question of the applicability of the jus contra bellum regime to relations between States and secessionist entities which has already been debated. This contribution argues that the war in Ukraine sets a precedent which confirms that self-defence is a justification exclusively available to States and that secession or territorial annexation secured through forceful means cannot be recognized, while addressing how one can understand, from an international legal perspective, that this has sometimes been the case in the past.
The Conflict in Ukraine and its Implications for International Refugee and Migration Law
Authors: Nesi Giuseppe
Published: November 2023

The massive flow of people from the territory of Ukraine as a consequence of Russia’s recent aggression has been met with a strong and prompt reaction by States, international organizations, and public opinion. Even though conventional international refugee law does not provide for its automatic application to people fleeing armed conflicts, in this case the essential elements to apply that law are present for the overwhelming majority of Ukrainians. Does the case of Ukraine pave the way for a further evolution of international refugee law?
The 2022 “Environmental Reform” of the Italian Constitution and International Law
Authors: Greco Donato
Published: November 2023

The present contribution deals with the amendment to Article 9 of the Italian Constitution introduced by Constitutional Law No. 1 of 11 February 2022 which foresees a duty for the Italian Republic to protect the environment, biodiversity and ecosystems, also in the interest of future generations. The contribution pursues a twofold objective. First, it aims to analyse the content of the reform to appraise its impact on environmental protection in the Italian legal system, also in light of the previous case law of the Italian Constitutional Court. Second, it intends to assess the influence of international (environmental) law on the amendment to the Constitution. In this respect, it will be argued that the relationship between domestic law and international law follows two main trajectories: on the one hand, the constitutionalisation of international law and, on the other, the internationalisation of constitutional law.
On the markedness of tense-aspect stems in Classical Armenian
Authors: Kocharov Petr
Published: November 2023

The paper offers a synchronic and diachronic account of markedness of the oppositional tense-aspect stems in Classical Armenian. The synchronic part explores the correspondence between markedness and productivity of verb classes as attested in the Armenian Bible translation, as well as the correspondence between markedness and token frequency of a selection of fifty most frequent verbs in the same text. The default pattern, characterized by an unmarked present and marked aorist stems, constitutes some two-thirds of the entire dataset but is less common in the most frequent verbs. By contrast, the two patterns with the unmarked aorist are significantly better represented and the token frequency of their aorist stems is typically higher for such verbs. This evidence is discussed in the context of a typological generalization predicting the lower markedness of more frequently used forms. An outlook on the historical grammar of Classical Armenian suggests that the attested system reflects a transition from aspect- to tense-oriented marking of stems.
Chironius scurrula, the correct nomen for Chironius scurrulus (Squamata, Serpentes, Colubridae), with a list of the correct spellings of specific epithets currently in use in this genus
Authors: BERNAL RODRIGO , DUBOIS ALAIN
Published: November 2023

The correct epithet of the snake species so far known as Chironius scurrulus Wagler in Spix, 1824 is shown to be scurrula, as it is not an adjective but a noun in apposition to the generic substantive, therefore invariable. This case prompted us to review the grammatical status of the epithets of the 23 species currently considered valid in the genus Chironius Fitzinger, 1826. Only about 56.5 % of these epithets turned out to be adjectives agreeing in gender with the generic nomina with which they are combined. Although this proportion will be very variable from one zoological genus to another, it is likely that in genera with a high number of species (10‒20 or more), some epithets will not agree in gender with the genus nomina. In order to avoid subsequent corrections in the spellings of epithets (and therefore ‘nomenclatural instability’), taxonomists are therefore encouraged to pay attention to this question. As a consequence of this survey, we also provide new information on a few miscellaneous questions: the author of the type species designation for Chironius; the author, date, type specimen and type locality of the nominal taxon Chironius flavolineatus; and the etymology and status of the epithets of the bionomina Chironius foveatus and Chironius leucometapus.
A new species of the genus Enneapterygius (Perciformes: Tripterygiidae) from Japan and the Philippines, with a synopsis and synonymy of related species
Authors: DEWA YUNA , TASHIRO SATOKUNI , MOTOMURA HIROYUKI
Published: November 2023

A new species of triplefin (Tripterygiidae), Enneapterygius olivaceus n. sp., is described on the basis of 28 type specimens (13.7–25.1 mm standard length: SL) from Japan (Ryukyu Islands) and the Philippines. The new species is characterized by having 18–22 (20) notched lateral-line scales, 2 or 3 (2) scales below the 1st notched lateral-line scale, a single symphyseal mandibular-pore (mandibular pore formula 3 + 1 + 3), black pectoral fins in nuptial males, and no distinct line on the anal-fin membranes. In this study, Enneapterygius minutus (Günther, 1877), previously regarded as a junior synonym of Enneapterygius philippinus (Peters, 1868), is considered a valid species, being redescribed based on 109 specimens, including the re-examined type specimens. Diagnostic characters and distributional records of the species closely related to E. olivaceus n. sp. are reviewed. Enneapterygius tusitalae Jordan & Seale, 1906, Enneapterygius pardochir Jordan & Seale, 1906 and Enneapterygius punctulatus Herre, 1935 are regarded here as junior synonyms of E. minutus; Tripterygium callionymi Weber, 1909 and Enneapterygius waigiensis Herre, 1935 are junior synonyms of Enneapterygius tutuilae Jordan & Seale, 1906; Enneapterygius cerasinus Jordan & Seale, 1906 is a junior synonym of Enneapterygius unimaculatus Fricke, 1994; Enneapterygius fuligicauda Fowler, 1946 is a senior synonym of Enneapterygius similis Fricke, 1997.
The status of Tomopterna pulchra Boulenger, 1896 (Anura: Pyxicephalidae)
Authors: WILLEMS FRANK , CHANNING ALAN
Published: November 2023

Tomopterna pulchra (Boulenger, 1896) was described from “Lake Tanganyika” based on a single specimen. It was synonymised with Tomopterna tuberculosa (Boulenger, 1882) by Loveridge (1957) who noted that it did not fully agree with the description of T. tuberculosa, especially in the difference in dorsal colouration. Genetic differences show that two species are confused, although their advertisement calls and morphology are similar, except for the presence of a pale vertebral stripe mostly in eastern populations. We consider the advertisement calls, morphology, and genetic differences, and remove Tomopterna pulchra (Boulenger, 1896) from the synonymy of Tomopterna tuberculosa. Divergence dating shows that these two species separated in the mid-Miocene. Tomopterna pulchra breeds in rocky habitats, whereas T. tuberculosa breeds in sandy areas, typical of the genus. Based on genetically confirmed specimens, presently T. tuberculosa is known in the west (Angola and Namibia) while T. pulchra is only known from the east (Zambia and Tanzania). The examination of specimens for the presence or absence of a vertebral stripe infers that these species are widespread. Further work is required to determine if the two species are sympatric, and the extent of their ranges.
Two new species of Asymphyloptera Collin (Diptera: Empididae: Clinocerinae) from Colombia, with an updated key to males of New World species
Authors: RAMOS-PASTRANA YARDANY , CÓRDOBA-SUAREZ ERIC , SINCLAIR BRADLEY J.
Published: November 2023

The genus Asymphyloptera is recorded from Colombia for the first time, with the description of two new species from Parque Natural Regional Cerro Páramo de Miraflores: A. miraflorensis sp. nov. and A. tama sp. nov. The two species are illustrated, and an updated key and distribution map for all New World species are presented.
Outcomes of Preperitoneal Packing and Angioembolization for Hemorrhage Control in Hemodynamically Unstable Pelvic Fractures: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Martinez Brian , Breeding Tessa , Katz Joshua , Patel Heli , Santos Radleigh. G. , Elkbuli Adel
Published: November 2023

Background

Hemodynamically unstable pelvic fractures are often life-threatening injuries; however, the optimal management remains uncertain. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to evaluate the most appropriate primary management of hemorrhage in adult patients with hemodynamically unstable pelvic fractures by comparing outcomes following the initial use of preperitoneal packing (PPP) vs angioembolization (AE).

Methods

A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar, and ProQuest databases was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Studies assessing hemorrhage management in trauma patients with hemodynamically unstable pelvic fractures were included. The data extracted from selected articles included patient demographics, study design, and outcomes such as 24-hour PRBC transfusions, in-hospital mortality, and DVT rate.

Results

Eight articles were included in the systematic review. Among the included studies, 2040 patients with hemodynamically unstable pelvic fractures were analyzed. Meta-analyses revealed that treatment with PPP was associated with fewer 24-hour PRBC transfusions (mean difference = −1.0, 95% CI: −1.8 to −.2) than AE. However, no significant differences were noted in in-hospital mortality (RR: .91, 95% CI: .80-1.05) and the rate of deep vein thrombosis (RR: .89, 95% CI: .62-1.28) between groups.

Conclusion

The findings of this study suggest that primary management with PPP was associated with fewer 24-hour PRBC transfusions compared to AE. The choice of primary management with PPP or AE did not significantly impact in-hospital mortality. Future studies should address clinical outcomes and the factors that affect them to better understand the impact of different management strategies and direct the creation of practice management guidelines.
A Scoping Review of Australian Literature on People Who Use MDMA and Their Harm Reduction Practices
Authors: Span Chloe , Farah Baillee , Ivetìc Nathan , Stronach Oisin
Published: November 2023

Background: Discourses around MDMA are often predominantly concerned with identifying risk and characterizing harm. Reluctance from Australian governments to reform drug policy and implement harm reduction services has created a policy and service gap, and it is therefore pertinent to consider how people who use MDMA mediate potential harms, and how this knowledge can inform approaches to drug use and policy reform. This community-led scoping review aimed to identify Australian literature on the practices of harm reduction strategies by people who use MDMA. Methods: Seven topic-specific and multidisciplinary databases were searched in February 2023 in line with conventional scoping review methodology. Eligible articles were published from 2002 onwards, reported on the voices of people who use MDMA as primary evidence within the context of Australia, and included at least one strategy to reduce harm. Data were analyzed by drawing on conventional content analysis and thematic analysis frameworks. Results: Twenty-three peer-reviewed and gray literature sources were included. Five key themes were identified on how people mediate harms and enhance the pleasurable aspects of MDMA use: drug consumption practices, planning and preparation, testing drugs, accessing health services, and community care practices. Conclusion: The results suggest that people who use MDMA take care to identify and reduce unwanted harms. The way people who use MDMA make decisions around drugs is mediated by peer groups and online technologies, as well as broader social and cultural contexts of drug use and drug prohibition. More qualitative, participatory, and action research projects are recommended to accurately reflect the views and needs of people who use MDMA and meaningfully shape service reform.
Precarity among transient migrants: Mainland Chinese workers in Brunei Darussalam during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Zhao Kaili
Published: November 2023

Precarity often characterizes the inadequate social and legal protection that transient migrants receive. Drawing on participant observation and semi-structured interviews of Chinese migrant workers of Mainland Chinese enterprises in Brunei Darussalam between 2021 and 2022, this paper discusses their precarious experiences by demonstrating their encounters with local communities and when interacting with their families in China during the COVID-19 pandemic. It unveils that the daily struggles and precariousness of Mainland Chinese workers in Brunei are due to both exogenous and endogenous factors. This study sheds light on the vulnerable conditions of Chinese workers resulting from their individual choices and institutional factors that affect transient migrants.
Socio-ecological precarity at the juncture of multiple crises
Authors: Petrova Saska
Published: November 2023

Drawing upon the literature on the critical geographies of precarity, as well as feminist readings of non- and more-than-human geographies and political ecologies, this review proposes a socio-ecological precarity framеwork to address gaps in discussions and examinations of nonhuman vulnerabilities, forms of resistance, and infrastructures of conviviality and care. Socio-ecological precarity is posited as relational, politically generative, and transformative.
Real world utilisation of doravirine among people living with human immunodeficiency virus in England (DRIVE-REAL)
Authors: O’Halloran Charlotte , Gilleece Yvonne , Leung Suki , Canuto Veronica , McAlpine Connor , Ross Sophie , Norcross Claire , Gaffney Stuart , Siani Nipur , Hickey William , Moore Adam , Rajkovic-Hooley Olivera , Milinkovic Ana
Published: November 2023

Background

Doravirine is a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor recommended for the treatment of virologically suppressed and treatment naïve people living with HIV. The DRIVE-REAL study aimed to describe the characteristics, treatment patterns, and virological outcomes of doravirine users in a real-world cohort in the UK.

Methods

A retrospective, observational, multi-centre chart review was conducted for 300 adults living with HIV initiating doravirine-containing antiretroviral therapy.

Results

At baseline 83% of individuals were male, 45% aged ≥50 years, 65% white ethnicity. Median time since HIV diagnosis was 12 years. 96% were antiretroviral therapy-experienced, 87% had a HIV viral load <50 copies/ml, and 15% had resistance to at least one antiretroviral drug. 66% had comorbidities, most commonly depression (26%), and 70% were taking at least one co-medication. At six months, 94% ( n = 283/300) were still receiving doravirine. Viral load data were available for n = 266/300 individuals and 95% ( n = 253/266) had viral load <50 copies/ml.

Conclusions

Individuals initiating doravirine in this cohort are predominantly treatment-experienced white middle-aged males, with a high frequency of comorbidities and co-medication. The majority of individuals at 6 months remained on doravirine and maintained or achieved HIV viral suppression. This study provides epidemiologic characteristics that can inform clinical care and subsequent hypothesis-testing studies.
Perceptions Toward Exercise or Mindful Exercise Participation Among Patients With Primary Osteoporosis: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Lyu Fang Fei , Ramoo Vimala , Chui Ping Lei , Ng Chong Guan
Published: November 2023

Exercise is significantly beneficial for patients with osteoporosis. However, physiological and psychological factors such as pain and kinesiophobia prevent patients from participating in exercise. Therefore, it is important to understand how these patients perceive participation in exercise. This qualitative study was conducted in China using conventional content analysis. Using a purposeful sampling method, 17 patients with primary osteoporosis were recruited. Data were collected through a semi-structured interview and managed using ATLAS.ti 21. Nine generic categories were developed from 26 subcategories and two main categories were identified: Barriers and facilitators, support systems, network resources, positive emotions, and reactions were the facilitators for exercise in this study. In addition, mindful exercise was positively viewed by the patients. Inefficient awareness, weak support systems, and burdens were identified as barriers. To improve compliance in clinical practice, targeted exercise protocols should be developed for patients based on these perceptions.
Effects of CPAP treatment on electroencephalographic activity in patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome during deep sleep: Preliminary findings of a cross-sectional study
Authors: Li Yiran , Li Qi , Zou Xueliang , Zhong Zhijun , Ouyang Qian , Zeng Qinghong , Hu Yinyin , Wang Mengmeng , Luo Yaxing , Yao Dongyuan
Published: November 2023

Study objectives: To investigate whether electroencephalographic (EEG) activities during non-rapid eye movement sleep stage 3 (N3) in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) patients were changed with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment.

Methods: A cross-sectional study of EEG activity during N3 sleep was conducted in 15 patients with moderate to severe OSAS without and with CPAP treatment compared to 15 normal controls. The amplitude, and absolute and relative power of delta, theta, alpha and beta waves as well as the absolute power ratio of slow to fast EEG waves (i.e., absolute power of delta and theta waves/absolute power of alpha and beta waves) and the spectral power density of 0-30 Hz EEG activities were analyzed.

Results: CPAP significantly increased N3 sleep, the absolute and relative powers, amplitudes of delta and theta waves, and absolute power ratio of slow to fast EEG waves, but decreased relative alpha and beta powers during N3 sleep. However, there were no significant differences in those parameters between the OSAS patients with CPAP treatment and normal controls.

Conclusions: CPAP prolongs N3 sleep and increases the power and amplitude of slow EEG waves during N3 sleep, which indicates an improvement in sleep quality and further provides evidence for recommendation of CPAP treatment for OSAS patients.
Institutional Investors, CSR Report Readability and the Moderating Role of ESG Performance
Authors: Lin Philip Teng , Jin Yanhui , Gao Fei , Yang Ruifeng , Lin Qian
Published: November 2023

This study examines the impact of institutional investors on the readability of corporate social responsibility (CSR) reports in the Chinese polluting industry. All available CSR reports in the listed polluting industries in China from 2010 to 2019 are analyzed to develop a readability score for each company. To differentiate the heterogenous motivation of institutional investors, we classify institutional investors into long-term and short-term investors based on their holding purpose and trading frequency. The results show that long-term institutional investors with long-term horizons have strong motivation to engage in the CSR reports disclosure. However, short-term institutional investors pursue near-term interests and they may have weak incentives to participate in the corporate governance and improve CSR report readability. Furthermore, we also find that the positive relationship between long-term institutional investors and CSR readability is stronger in polluting firms with higher environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance. The significant role of institutional investors in promoting CSR reporting highlights the importance for polluting firms to acknowledge the needs of large and influential investors.
Mapping the role of oral cavity physiological factors into the viscoelastic model of denture adhesives for numerical implementation
Authors: Ramakrishnan Anantha Narayanan , Röhrle Oliver , Ludtka Christopher , Koehler Josephine , Kiesow Andreas , Schwan Stefan
Published: November 2023

Physiological parameters of the oral cavity have a profound impact on any restorative solutions designed for edentulous patients including denture adhesives. This study aims to mathematically quantify the influence of three such variables, namely: the temperature, pH, and the swelling of such adhesives under the influence of saliva on its mechanical behavior. The mathematical quantification is further aimed to implement a material model for such adhesives which considers the impact of such physiological factors. The denture adhesive is experimentally investigated by means of rheological steady state frequency sweep tests to obtain the relaxation spectrum of the material. The relaxation behavior is measured for a wide range of oral cavity temperatures and pH. Also, the adhesive is hydrated and upon swelling to different levels again tested to understand the impact of swelling on the mechanical behavior. The experimentally measured continuous relaxation spectrum is modeled as a viscoelastic material using a discrete set of points based on the Prony series discretization technique. The relaxation spectrums for various temperatures are compared and the possibility of a time-temperature superposition is explored for the model. Similarly, the measured values of Storage and loss modulus are investigated to understand the role of pH and swelling. The results in this study clearly indicated a horizontal shift in the relaxation behavior with increase in temperature. And hence, the time-temperature shift factor was calculated for the adhesive. The relaxation spectrum also showed a strong correlation with swelling of the adhesive and the pH. The influence of these two parameters were captured into the model based on the relaxation time parameter in the Prony series approach. Based on this study the impact of these parameters could be appreciated on the performance and mechanical behavior of denture adhesives and implemented into a Prony series based viscoelastic material model which can be used with numerical simulations.
Role of Social Enterprises in Bridging Healthcare Sector Gap: A Case of ‘Santhwanam’
Authors: Swain Sasmita , Patoju Sri Krishna Sudheer
Published: November 2023

The increasing rate of non-communicable diseases calls for early identification and intervention. Trained paramedical forces can cater to the healthcare needs on the prevention front. This opens the doors for social enterprises to address this social need in an economically sustainable way. The present research article discusses the unique health intervention ‘Santhwanam’, a collaborative effort of Kudumbashree, the State Livelihood Mission of Kerala, the State Bank of India and Health Action by the People. It addresses the rural people’s unmet health needs by creating a pool of trained paramedical professionals. At present, ‘Santhwanam’ has trained 356 women in paramedical services and reached nearly 3.41 lakh people’s lives in 14 districts of Kerala.
Exploring the key genomic variation in monkeypox virus during the 2022 outbreak
Authors: Zhu Jie , Yu Jian , Qin Hao , Chen Xinlei , Wu Chuanchang , Hong Xiaodan , Zhang Yafei , Zhang Zhenhua
Published: November 2023

Background

In 2022, a global outbreak of monkeypox occurred with a significant shift in its epidemiological characteristics. The monkeypox virus (MPXV) belongs to the B.1 lineage, and its genomic variations that were linked to the outbreak were investigated in this study. Previous studies have suggested that viral genomic variation plays a crucial role in the pathogenicity and transmissibility of viruses. Therefore, understanding the genomic variation of MPXV is crucial for controlling future outbreaks.

Methods

This study employed bioinformatics and phylogenetic approaches to evaluate the key genomic variation in the B.1 lineage of MPXV. A total of 979 MPXV strains were screened, and 212 representative strains were analyzed to identify specific substitutions in the viral genome. Reference sequences were constructed for each of the 10 lineages based on the most common nucleotide at each site. A total of 49 substitutions were identified, with 23 non-synonymous substitutions. Class I variants, which had significant effects on protein conformation likely to affect viral characteristics, were classified among the non-synonymous substitutions.

Results

The phylogenetic analysis revealed 10 relatively monophyletic branches. The study identified 49 substitutions specific to the B.1 lineage, with 23 non-synonymous substitutions that were classified into Class I, II, and III variants. The Class I variants were likely responsible for the observed changes in the characteristics of circulating MPXV in 2022. These key mutations, particularly Class I variants, played a crucial role in the pathogenicity and transmissibility of MPXV.

Conclusion

This study provides an understanding of the genomic variation of MPXV in the B.1 lineage linked to the recent outbreak of monkeypox. The identification of key mutations, particularly Class I variants, sheds light on the molecular mechanisms underlying the observed changes in the characteristics of circulating MPXV. Further studies can focus on functional domains affected by these mutations, enabling the development of effective control strategies against future monkeypox outbreaks.
Genome-wide analysis of lectins in cyanobacteria: from evolutionary mode to motif patterns
Authors: Xu Tongli , Cui Yulin , Qin Song , Wang Yin-Chu
Published: November 2023

Lectins are glycoproteins that can bind to specific carbohydrates, and different lectin families exhibit different biological activities. They are also present in the cyanobacteria and many of them have shown excellent therapeutic effect, which deserve for bioprospecting. However, in comparison to those from terrestrial plants, the current knowledge on cyanobacterial lectins is very limited. To this end, genome-wide analyses were performed to find out their evolutionary mode and motif patterns in 316 genomes of representative taxa. In results, 196 putative cyanobacterial lectins were dig out and 105 of them were classified into known families. Seven lectins were found to be belonged to distinct two lectin families, and they may have the potential activities of both lectin families. Whereas no MFP-2, Chitin, and Nictaba family lectins were found. What’s more, the Legume lectin-like lectin family was found to be the richest and most complex in cyanobacteria, which could be a main research direction for future cyanobacterial lectin bioprospecting and development. Our classification and prediction of cyanobacteria lectins is expected to provide assistance in the development of lectin-based medicine and provide solutions to the current thorny viral and tumor diseases in humans.
Streptococcus strain D19T as a probiotic candidate to modulate oral health
Authors: Zhang Wen Xiao , Xiao Chun Ling
Published: November 2023

Background

As probiotics protect host cells, they are used to treat bacterial infections. It has been indicated that probiotics may prevent or reduce the attachment of pathogens to host cells. In this study, Streptococcus strain D19T was isolated from the oropharynx of a healthy child, and its adhesion performance and Staphylococcus aureus adhesion inhibition effect were analysed using human bronchial epithelial (16-HBE) cells, as an in vitro cell model. We evaluated the probiotic properties of the D19T strain based on its acid–base, bile salt, and lysozyme tolerance; antibacterial activity; cytotoxicity; antibiotic sensitivity; in vitro adhesion to 16-HBE cells; and competitive, exclusion, and displacement effects against S. aureus.

Results

Streptococcus strain D19T showed tolerance to a PH range of 2–5 and 0.5–1% bile. However, it was more tolerant to 0.5% bile than to 1% bile. The strain also demonstrated an ability to adapt to maladaptive oropharyngeal conditions (i.e., tolerating 200 µg/mL lysozyme). It was resistant to 0.8 mM H2O2. The results also demonstrated that D19T exhibited inhibitory activities against various common pathogenic bacteria. Furthermore, D19T was not toxic to 16-HBE cells at different multiplicities of infection and was sensitive to most antibiotics tested. The adhesion rate of D19T cells to 16-HBE cells was 47% ± 1.2%, which was significantly higher than that of S. aureus to 16-HBE cells. The competition, exclusion, and displacement assay results showed that D19T has good inhibitory effect against S. aureus adhesion.

Conclusions

The present study revealed that Streptococcus strain D19T has the potential to be developed as a respiratory microbiota preparations.
Genomic identification and expression profiling of WRKY genes in alfalfa (Medicago sativa) elucidate their responsiveness to seed vigor
Authors: Sun Shoujiang , Ma Wen , Mao Peisheng
Published: November 2023

Background

Seed aging is a critical factor contributing to vigor loss, leading to delayed forage seed germination and seedling growth. Numerous studies have revealed the regulatory role of WRKY transcription factors in seed development, germination, and seed vigor. However, a comprehensive genome-wide analysis of WRKY genes in Zhongmu No.1 alfalfa has not yet been conducted.

Results

In this study, a total of 91 MsWRKY genes were identified from the genome of alfalfa. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that these MsWRKY genes could be categorized into seven distinct subgroups. Furthermore, 88 MsWRKY genes were unevenly mapped on eight chromosomes in alfalfa. Gene duplication analysis revealed segmental duplication as the principal driving force for the expansion of this gene family during the course of evolution. Expression analysis of the 91 MsWRKY genes across various tissues and during seed germination exhibited differential expression patterns. Subsequent RT-qPCR analysis highlighted significant induction of nine selected MsWRKY genes in response to seed aging treatment, suggesting their potential roles in regulating seed vigor.

Conclusion

This study investigated WRKY genes in alfalfa and identified nine candidate WRKY transcription factors involved in the regulation of seed vigor. While this finding provides valuable insights into understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying vigor loss and developing new strategies to enhance alfalfa seed germinability, further research is required to comprehensively elucidate the precise pathways through which the MsWRKY genes modulate seed vigor.
COL10A1 promotes tumorigenesis by modulating CD276 in pancreatic adenocarcinoma
Authors: Xu Qiaodong , Zheng Jieting , Su Zegeng , Chen Binlie , Gu Songgang
Published: November 2023

Background

Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) is a lethal malignant tumour. Further study is needed to determine the molecular mechanism and identify novel biomarkers of PAAD.

Methods

Gene expression data from the GSE62165 microarray were analysed with the online software Morpheus to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The STRING database was used to generate a protein‒protein interaction (PPI) network for these DEGs. Hub genes were identified with Cytoscape. COL10A1 expression in PAAD was analysed via the GEPIA database. COL10A1 expression in pancreatic cancer cell lines was measured by using qRT‒PCR. The LinkedOmics database was utilized to perform survival analysis of pancreatic adenocarcinoma patients grouped based on COL10A1 expression level. CCK-8, wound healing, and Transwell assays were used to study the role of COL10A1 in pancreatic cancer cell viability, migration, and invasion. Differentially expressed genes that were related to COL10A1 in PAAD were analysed via the LinkedOmics portal. After COL10A1 was knocked down, CD276 expression was assessed by western blotting.

Results

COL10A1 was identified as one of the hub genes in PAAD by bioinformatics analysis of the GSE62165 microarray with Morpheus, the STRING database and Cytoscape. GEPIA revealed elevated expression of COL10A1 in PAAD samples vs. normal samples. COL10A1 expression was also increased in pancreatic cancer cells vs. control cells. Survival analysis of PAAD patients via LinkedOmics revealed that high expression of COL10A1 was associated with a poorer prognosis. Knockdown of COL10A1 inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of cells in functional assays. Furthermore, mechanistic studies indicated that CD276 was a target of COL10A1 and that knockdown of COL10A1 decreased CD276 expression. Overexpression of CD276 in cells reversed COL10A1 knockdown-induced repression of proliferation and migration.

Conclusions

Our research suggests that COL10A1 promotes pancreatic adenocarcinoma tumorigenesis by regulating CD276. This study provides new insight into biomarkers and possible targets for pancreatic cancer treatment.