bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oral Decoctions Based on Qi-Yin Syndrome Differentiation After Adjuvant Chemotherapy in Resected Stage ΙΙΙA Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Jiang Yi , Liu Fang-fang , Cai Yu-qing , Zhang Peng , Yang Xiao-feng , Bi Xiang-yan , Qin Ruo-yan , Zhang Shi , Yin Ju-hua , Shen Li-ping , Liu Jia-xiang , Liu Ling-shuang
Published: July 2024

Objective:

Powerful adjuvant strategies are required to improve the survival of patients with completely resected stage ΙΙΙA non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We aimed to compare the efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) treatment versus observation after adjuvant chemotherapy in these patients.

Methods:

Eligible patients were randomized 1:1 to receive either oral decoctions based on Qi-Yin syndrome differentiation (TCM group) or observation (observation group). The intervention lasted for 12 months. The primary endpoint was 1-year disease-free survival (DFS). Secondary endpoints were DFS, quality of life, regulatory T cells (Tregs), and cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen-4 (CTLA-4) on the surface of Tregs in peripheral blood. We used EORTC QLQ-LC43 to evaluate quality of life.

Results:

Between Apr 29, 2019, and Nov 11, 2021, 75 patients were randomly assigned to oral decoctions based on Qi-Yin syndrome differentiation (n = 38) or observation (n = 37). The full analysis set included 35 patients in the TCM group and 35 in the observation group. After a median follow-up of 24.2 months, oral decoctions based on Qi-Yin syndrome differentiation improved DFS compared with observation (HR 0.378, 95% CI: 0.157-0.912; P = .03). One-year DFS was 82.1% in the TCM group and 61.9% in the observation group ( P = .06). Three months after randomization, scores of total health, role function, emotional function, and social function in the TCM group were higher than those in the observation group ( P < .01 for all), scores of fatigue, pain, insomnia, appetite loss, constipation, cough, and chest pain were lower than those in the observation group ( P < .05 for all); there was no significant difference in the proportion of Tregs between the TCM group and the observation group ( P = .58); the proportion of CTLA-4+Tregs in the TCM group was lower than that in the observation group ( P = .046). There were no adverse events that occurred in both groups.

Conclusions:

Oral decoctions based on Qi-Yin syndrome differentiation after adjuvant chemotherapy prolonged DFS, reduced the risk of disease recurrence and metastasis, improved quality of life, and down-regulated the proportion of CTLA-4+Tregs in completely resected stage ΙΙΙA NSCLC patients.

Trial Registration:

Chinese Clinical Trial Register, No. ChiCTR1800019396. Date of registration: 9 November 2018.
Struggle Over Rights and Duties at Work: Storylines and Discursive Self-Other Positioning in Workplace Bullying Stories
Authors: Kuusela Pekka , Hirvonen Pasi , Van Langenhove Luk
Published: July 2024

This study examines the phases and dynamics of workplace bullying (WB) as a social positioning phenomenon within moral orders. Applying the positioning theory (PT) and the relational model of WB, the study analyses 136 written online stories of WB, utilizing narrative analysis of positioning in self-other relationships. The findings, limited to the perspective of the bullied (targets), identify four distinct storylines of WB that involve different forms of positioning: (1) the loss of health and ability to work, (2) passive acceptance of bullying, (3) unresolved conflict, and (4) active opponent in bullying. These findings shed light on the development and variations in WB storylines regarding the target, perpetrator, and work community, with a focus on the organizational and interpersonal power dynamics associated with WB. Furthermore, each WB storyline emphasizes the diverse strategies employed in response to WB and the various paths WB can follow over time.
The Gendered Language of Financial Advice: Finfluencers, Framing, and Subconscious Preferences
Authors: Ben-Shmuel Ambreen Tour , Hayes Adam , Drach Vanessa
Published: July 2024

As financial advice migrates online, “finfluencers” are democratizing access to financial knowledge, challenging the historically male-dominated advisory landscape. This mixed-methods study explores how gender shapes the creation and consumption of finfluencer content. Qualitative analysis reveals gendered advice patterns: Men emphasize quantitative aspects, whereas women incorporate narratives and personal stories. Experimental surveys uncover subconscious same-gender preferences in advice receptivity, contrasting with stated desires for gender-neutral guidance. These implicit affinities persist even when advice content is anonymized and gender-balanced. Paradoxically, finfluencers introduce diverse voices and challenge traditional norms yet also subtly cater to gendered perspectives. The research highlights the complex role of gender in the digital financial advice market, where expanding inclusivity coexists with enduring biases. Findings offer insights for developing more equitable and empowering financial education in the digital age while revealing the subconscious factors shaping the emerging finfluencer discourse.
Individual or successiveseed priming with nitric oxide and calcium toward enhancing salt tolerance of wheat crop through early ROS detoxification and activation of antioxidant defense
Authors: El-Shazoly Rasha M. , Hamed H. M. A. , El-Sayed Mahmoud M.
Published: July 2024

Despite the considerable efforts reported so far to enhance seed priming, novel ideas are still needed to be suggested to this sustainable sector of agri-seed industry. This could be the first study addressing the effect of nitric oxide (NO) under open field conditions. The impacts of seed redox-priming using sodium nitroprusside (SNP) and osmo-priming with calcium chloride (CaCl2), both applied individually or successively, were investigated under salinity stress conditions on wheat plants (Triticum aestivum L.). Various parameters, including water relations, growth, yield, photosynthetic pigments, and antioxidant activities (enzymatic and non-enzymatic), were recorded to assess the outcomes of these priming agents on mitigating the negative impacts of salinity stress on wheat plants. Water consumptive use (ETa) and irrigation water applied (IWA) decreased with seeds priming. Successive priming with SNP + CaCl2 induced the greatest values of crop water productivity (CWP), irrigation water productivity (IWP), seed index, grain yield and grain nitrogen content.Under salinity stress, the dry weight of plants was decreased. However, hydro-priming and successive chemical priming agents using combinations of calcium chloride and sodium nitroprusside (CaCl2 + SNP & SNP + CaCl2) preserved growth under salinity stress.Individual priming with sodium nitroprusside (SNP) and calcium chloride (CaCl2) resulted in the lowest recorded content of sodium in the shoot, with a value of 2 ppm. On the other hand, successive priming using CaCl2 + SNP or SNP + CaCl2 induced the contents of potassium in the shoot, with values of 40 ppm and 39 ppm, respectively. Malondialdehyde decreased in shoot significantly withapplicationof priming agents. Successive priming with CaCl2 + SNP induced the highest proline contents in shoot (6 µg/ g FW). The highest value of phenolics and total antioxidants contents in shoot were recorded under successive priming using CaCl2 + SNP and SNP + CaCl2.Priming agents improved the activities of ascorbate peroxidase and catalase enzymes. The successive priming improved water relations (ETa, IWA, CWP and IWP) and wheat growth and productivity under salinity stress more than individual priming treatments.
Phenotypic and genotypic assessment of fluoroquinolones and aminoglycosides resistances in Pseudomonas aeruginosa collected from Minia hospitals, Egypt during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Boushra Maria Refaat , Gad Gamal Fadl Mahmoud , Hassuna Noha Anwar , Waly Nancy Gamil Fawzy , Ibrahem Reham Ali
Published: July 2024

Background

One of the most prevalent bacteria that cause nosocomial infections is Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Fluoroquinolones (FQ) and aminoglycosides are vital antipseudomonal drugs, but resistance is increasingly prevalent. The study sought to investigate the diverse mechanisms underlying FQ and aminoglycoside resistance in various P. aeruginosa strains particularly during the COVID-19 crisis.

Methods

From various clinical and environmental samples, 110 P. aeruginosa isolates were identified and their susceptibility to several antibiotic classes was evaluated. Molecular techniques were used to track target gene mutations, the presence of genes encoding for quinolone resistance, modifying enzymes for aminoglycosides and resistance methyltransferase (RMT). Efflux pump role was assessed phenotypically and genotypically. Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis was used to measure clonal diversity.

Results

QnrS was the most frequently encountered quinolone resistance gene (37.5%) followed by qnrA (31.2%) and qnrD (25%). Among aminoglycoside resistant isolates, 94.1% harbored modifying enzymes genes, while RMT genes were found in 55.9% of isolates. The aac(6')-Ib and rmtB were the most prevalent genes (79.4% and 32.3%, respectively). Most FQ resistant isolates overexpressed mexA (87.5%). RAPD fingerprinting showed 63.2% polymorphism.

Conclusions

Aminoglycosides and FQ resistance observed in this study was attributed to several mechanisms with the potential for cross-contamination existence so, strict infection control practices are crucial.
Violence and its related factors among infertile women attending assisted reproductive technique unit at Al-Azhar University, Cairo
Authors: Ahmed Doaa Sadek , Elela Asmaa Mohammed Abo , Ismail Samar Samy , Almowafy Abeer A. , Abou-Elyazid Hanaa
Published: July 2024

Background

Violence against women is a distressing issue particularly when they are infertile. Nevertheless, many women who are infertile and exposed to violence continue their marriage and justify such choice.

Aim

The current study aimed to assess the prevalence of violence against infertile women and its associated factors.

Participants and methods

This cross-sectional study involved 364 Egyptian women with primary infertility; they were randomly selected from the assisted reproductive technique unit of Al-Azhar University’s International Islamic Center for Population Studies and Research. The data were collected through an interview questionnaire including the Infertile Women’s Exposure to Violence Determination Scale (IWEVDS), socio-demographic, conception, and community-related factors.

Results

Moderate/high violence level was detected among 50.5% (95% CI = 45.3- 55.8%) of the studied infertile women, the mean ± SD of total score of IWEVDS was 48.27 ± 21.6. Exclusion was the most frequent type of violence among them. Binary logistic regression revealed that wives who had lower-educated husbands, lived in low-income families, had undergone prior IVF treatment, and who perceived gender inequality acceptance in society were more likely to expose to violence than others (OR = 3.76, 4.25, 2.05, and 2.08 respectively) (Pvalue < 0.05).

Conclusion and recommendations

Infertile women have frequent exposure to different types of violence and many factors were implicated in such condition. Despite exposure to violence, infertile women refused divorce because they had no alternative financial sources as well as they were afraid of loneliness. A community mobilization approach to control this problem through a collaboration of all stakeholders is recommended.
Night shift work and female breast cancer: a two-stage dose-response meta-analysis for the correct risk definition
Authors: Moon Jinyoung , Ikeda-Araki Atsuko , Mun Yongseok
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The hypothesis of this study is night shift work exposure can increase the risk of female breast cancer. To validate this hypothesis, the authors conducted a two-stage dose-response meta-analysis with improved quality on this topic.

Methods

The medical librarian searched PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library on December 30th, 2022. The eight inclusion criteria were determined and strictly applied to the selection process. A reliable dose-response meta-analysis methodology was applied.

Results

Reliable 10 cohort (total cases: 15,953, and total person-years: 6,812,138) and 11 case-control reports (total cases: 9196, and total controls:12,210) were included in the final analysis. The pooled risk ratio (RR) of female breast cancer (from cohort studies) for 1, 10, 20, and 30 years of night shift work exposure was 1.0042 (95% CI 1.0014–1.0070), 1.0425 (95% CI 1.0138–1.0719), 1.0867 (95% CI 1.0278–1.1490), and 1.1328 (95% CI 1.0419–1.2317), respectively. The pooled odds ratio (OR) of female breast cancer (from case-control studies) for 1, 10, 20, and 30 years of night shift work exposure was 1.0213 (95% CI 1.0108–1.0319), 1.2346 (95% CI 1.1129–1.3695), 1.5242 (95% CI 1.2386–1.8756), and 1.8817 (95% CI 1.3784–2.5687), respectively.

Discussion

This study has several strengths from the perspective of a dose-response meta-analysis: Strictly applied eight inclusion criteria, separately synthesized RRs from cohort studies and ORs from case-control studies, clearly defined exposure dose, years of night shift work for each risk estimate, a reliable dose-response meta-analysis methodology, and careful considering of selection, exposure, and outcome biases and confounder adjustment for each study. This careful consideration of potential biases and confounding led to the exclusion of unreliable two cohort and five case-control studies.
Clinical significance of lower respiratory tract culture within 48 h of admission in patients with viral pneumonia: an observational study
Authors: Chen Lu-Lu , Weng Heng
Published: July 2024

Background

The aim of this retrospective study was to examine the risk factors of positive lower respiratory tract cultures and to investigate whether nosocomial infections are common in patients with positive lower respiratory tract cultures.

Methods

We enrolled 86 patients diagnosed with influenza A-related critical illness who were treated at Fuzhou Pulmonary Hospital of Fujian in China between 1st October 2013 and 31st March 2019. The of admission were used to divide the enrolled patients into two groups. Sputum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid specimens were collected within 48 h after admission for culture. All samples were cultured immediately after sampling. Nosocomial infections are defined as any symptom or sign of pulmonary infiltration, confirmed by X-ray, after 5 days of admission and positive results from one or more cultures.

Results

The average age of this cohort was (54.13 ± 16.52) years. Based on the culture results, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans had the highest positive rates (3.40% (3/86) and 20.90% (18/86), respectively). In patients with positive lower respiratory tract cultures, the incidence of nosocomial infection was 73.30% (22/30) five days after admission. However, the incidence of nosocomial infection was lower (42.80%, 24/56) in patients with negative lower respiratory tract cultures. Hemoptysis, systolic pressure at admission, and blood urea nitrogen level at admission were all independent risk factors for positive lower respiratory tract cultures within 48 h of admission.

Conclusion

Our data showed that a significant proportion of patients with pneumonia exhibited co-infections with bacteria or fungi within five days of hospital admission. Hemoptysis, systolic pressure, and blood urea nitrogen levels at admission emerged as the key risk factors. These findings underscore the necessity of closely monitoring patients with influenza infection, particularly for positive bacterial or fungal cultures within the initial 48 h of admission.
Static magnetic field-modulated mesenchymal stem cell-derived mitochondria-containing microvesicles for enhanced intervertebral disc degeneration therapy
Authors: Shi Pengzhi , Gao Haiyang , Cheng Zhangrong , Zhao Kangcheng , Chen Yuhang , Chen Xianglong , Gan Weikang , Zhang Anran , Yang Cao , Zhang Yukun
Published: July 2024

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is characterized by the senescence and declining vitality of nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs), often driven by mitochondrial dysfunction. This study elucidates that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) play a crucial role in attenuating NPC senescence by secreting mitochondria-containing microvesicles (mitoMVs). Moreover, it demonstrates that static magnetic fields (SMF) enhance the secretion of mitoMVs by MSCs. By distinguishing mitoMV generation from exosomes, this study shifts focus to understanding the molecular mechanisms of SMF intervention, emphasizing cargo transport and plasma membrane budding processes, with RNA sequencing indicating the potential involvement of the microtubule-based transport protein Kif5b. The study further confirms the interaction between Rab22a and Kif5b, revealing Rab22a’s role in sorting mitoMVs into microvesicles (MVs) and potentially mediating subsequent plasma membrane budding. Subsequent construction of a gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) hydrogel delivery system further addresses the challenges of in vivo application and verifies the substantial potential of mitoMVs in delaying IVDD. This research not only sheds light on the molecular intricacies of SMF-enhanced mitoMV secretion but also provides innovative perspectives for future IVDD therapeutic strategies.
Two mini transverse-incision repair yields better results than percutaneous repair for acute closed midsubstance Achilles tendon rupture: a retrospective case-control study
Authors: Jin Wen Tao , Huang Li Fang , Guo Hai Hua , Wang Lei , Li Xiang , Wang Ze Jin
Published: July 2024

Background

Acute closed midsubstance Achilles tendon rupture(ACMATR) is common, with various treatment methods developed over time. We retrospectively compared the two mini transverse-incision repair (2MTIR) with percutaneous repair (PR) to determine which method yields better results.

Methods

All cases meeting criteria from 2018 to 2021 in our hospital were included and followed up for 1 to 5 years. A final questionnaire with multiple indexes was conducted via phone call. Comparative analysis of these indexes between the two groups was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics (V.26). Continuous variables that passed tests for normality and equal variance were compared using the Student’s t-test. Ranked data were compared using the Mann-Whitney U test. Categorical variables were tested with the chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

There was one rerupture in the PR group. The final indexes for “Tightness Feeling”, “Heel Rising Strength”, and “Foot Numbness” were statistically different (P < 0.05) between the two groups. The “Re-rupture” and “Return to Sports” indexes showed no statistical difference (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

The 2MTIR technique provided a technically straightforward, minimally invasive procedure with well-preserved paratenon and direct end-to-end firm fixation in cases of ACMATR. It resulted in very low complications, easy rehabilitation, and full weight-bearing as early as 5–6 weeks postoperatively, yielding better functional outcomes compared to the PR technique in the 1–5 year follow-up.

Trial registration

The study was preliminarily registered and approved by the University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital Ethical Board with Project number: hkuszh2023074 on May 4, 2023.
Feasibility of safe outpatient treatment in pediatric patients following intraventricular radioimmunotherapy with 131I-omburtamab for leptomeningeal disease
Authors: Prasad Kavya , Serencsits Brian E. , Chu Bae P. , Dauer Lawrence T. , Donzelli Maria , Basu Ellen , Kramer Kim , Pandit-Taskar Neeta
Published: July 2024

Background

Radiolabeled antibody 131I-omburtamab was administered intraventricularly in patients with leptomeningeal disease under an institutionally approved study (#NCT03275402). Radiation safety precautions were tailored for individual patients, enabling outpatient treatment based on in-depth, evidence-based recommendations for such precautions. The imperative advancement of streamlined therapeutic administration procedures, eliminating the necessity for inpatient isolation and resource-intensive measures, holds pivotal significance. This development bears broader implications for analogous therapies within the pediatric patient demographic.

Methods

Intraventricular radioimmunotherapy (RIT) with 925–1850 MBq (25–50 mCi) of 131I-omburtamab was administered via the Ommaya reservoir, in designated rooms within the pediatric ambulatory care center. Dosimeters were provided to staff involved in patient care to evaluate exposure during injection and post-administration. Post-administration exposure rate readings from the patient on contact, at 0.3 m, and at 1 m were taken within the first 30 min, and the room was surveyed after patient discharge. Duration of radiation exposure was calculated using standard U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (US NRC) regulatory guidance recommendations combined with mean exposure rates and whole-body clearance estimates. Exposure rate measurements and clearance data provided patient-specific precautions for four cohorts by age: < 3 y/o, 3–10 y/o, 10–18 y/o, and 18+.

Results

Post-administration exposure rates for patients ranged from 0.16 to 0.46 µSv/hr/MBq at 0.3 m and 0.03–0.08 µSv/hr/MBq at 1 m. Radiation exposure precautions ranged from 1 to 10 days after release for the four evaluated cohorts. Based on the highest measured exposure rates and slowest whole-body clearance, the longest precautions were approximately 78% lower than the regulatory guidance recommendations. Radiation exposure to staff associated with 131I-omburtamab per administration was substantially below the annual regulatory threshold for individual exposure monitoring.

Conclusion

131I-omburtamab can be administered on an outpatient basis, using appropriate patient-based radiation safety precautions that employ patient-specific exposure rate and biological clearance parameters. This trial is registered with the National Library of Medicine’s ClinicalTrials.gov. The registration number is NCT03275402, and it was registered on 7 September 2017. The web link is included here. https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03275402.
Interpretation of results of PCR and B-D-glucan for the diagnosis of Pneumocystis Jirovecii Pneumonia in immunocompromised adults with acute respiratory failure
Authors: Calvet Laure , Lemiale Virginie , Mokart Djamel , Peter Schellongowski , Peter Pickkers , Demoule Alexande , Mehta Sangeeta , Kouatchet Achille , Rello Jordi , Bauer Philippe , Martin-Loeches Ignacio , Seguin Amelie , Metaxa Victoria , Bisbal Magali , Azoulay Elie , Darmon Michael
Published: July 2024

Background

The accuracy of a diagnostic test depends on its intrinsic characteristics and the disease incidence. This study aims to depict post-test probability of Pneumocystis pneumonia (PJP), according to results of PCR and Beta-D-Glucan (BDG) tests in patients with acute respiratory failure (ARF).

Materials and methods

Diagnostic performance of PCR and BDG was extracted from literature. Incidence of Pneumocystis pneumonia was assessed in a dataset of 2243 non-HIV immunocompromised patients with ARF. Incidence of Pneumocystis pneumonia was simulated assuming a normal distribution in 5000 random incidence samples. Post-test probability was assessed using Bayes theorem.

Results

Incidence of PJP in non-HIV ARF patients was 4.1% (95%CI 3.3-5). Supervised classification identified 4 subgroups of interest with incidence ranging from 2.0% (No ground glass opacities; 95%CI 1.4–2.8) to 20.2% (hematopoietic cell transplantation, ground glass opacities and no PJP prophylaxis; 95%CI 14.1–27.7). In the overall population, positive post-test probability was 32.9% (95%CI 31.1–34.8) and 22.8% (95%CI 21.5–24.3) for PCR and BDG, respectively. Negative post-test probability of being infected was 0.10% (95%CI 0.09–0.11) and 0.23% (95%CI 0.21–0.25) for PCR and BDG, respectively. In the highest risk subgroup, positive predictive value was 74.5% (95%CI 72.0-76.7) and 63.8% (95%CI 60.8–65.8) for PCR and BDG, respectively.

Conclusion

Although both tests yield a high intrinsic performance, the low incidence of PJP in this cohort resulted in a low positive post-test probability. We propose a method to illustrate pre and post-test probability relationship that may improve clinician perception of diagnostic test performance according to disease incidence in predefined clinical settings.
Gaseous ozone inactivation of Bacillus atrophaeus spores on ceramic and porcelain tiles
Authors: Kwon Dokyung , Jo Yongju , Sohn Youngku , Kim Jeongkwon
Published: July 2024

In this study, we investigated the ozone inactivation efficiency of Bacillus atrophaeus spores attached to various tile surfaces. Eight different types of tiles were employed, considering factors such as porosity (ceramic, porcelain), color (white, black), and glossiness (matte, glossy). Inactivation was performed by exposing the spore-loaded tiles to ozone gas for a specified duration. The inactivation efficiencies of ozone gas on different tile surfaces were compared by analyzing the colony-forming units of desorbed Bacillus atrophaeus cultured in a growth medium. Results revealed a reduction in colony counts with increasing ozone exposure time, indicating a proportional enhancement in inactivation effectiveness on ozone exposure time. After exposure to ozone gas for 30 min or longer, more than 90% of spores on each tile were inactivated. Regarding porosity, ceramic tiles exhibited slightly superior inactivation effects compared to porcelain tiles. Additionally, in terms of glossiness, glossy tiles demonstrated better inactivation effects than matte tiles. However, no significant differences were observed in inactivation effects based on the color of the tiles.
The color systematics of volcanic ashfall samples in estimating eruption sequences: a case study of the 2017–2018 eruption at Shinmoe-dake, Kirishima volcano, Southwest Japan
Authors: Shimano Taketo , Suzuki Yuki , Yasuda Atsushi , Maeno Fukashi , Miwa Takahiro , Nagai Masashi , Nakada Setsuya , Nakamura Michihiko
Published: July 2024

The color of pyroclasts is fundamental, because it reflects various magma properties and eruption processes, including particle morphology, chemistry, and petrological characteristics. However, deriving the componentry ratio (CR) of pyroclasts for ongoing eruption monitoring remains challenging due to the lack of a robust quantitative standard. The derivation of the CR, as well as other petrological analyses, is too laborious and time-consuming to introduce as a sustainable monitoring method. To address this, we employed spectroscopic colorimetry to rapidly and quantitatively describe eruptive product colors, enabling CR derivation based on clear, objective standards for ash particle classification. Through color spectroscopy of bulk and sieved ash samples, we analyzed the major size fraction for time-series samples during the waxing stage of the 2017–2018 Shinmoe-dake eruption in Kirishima volcano, Southwest Japan. Our findings reveal that the color changes in bulk ash systematically changed with the evolution of componentry. This temporal color change was due to an increase in the amount of vesicular particles with clear glass against dark angular lava particles, as well as a grain size change, which we interpret as an indication of a transition from phreatic/phreatomagmatic to magmatic eruption. Subsequently, the color of the ash changed when the amount of different lava particles increased gradually, coinciding with a shift toward a more dominant effusion of lava. As the lava effusion continued, a slight reddening of the ash, indiscernible to the naked eye, was clearly detected by the spectrometer before the onset of intermittent Vulcanian eruptions. We interpreted this reddening as oxidation resulting from decreased ascent speed and caprock formation, which accumulates overpressure for Vulcanian explosions. These results highlight the potential of rapid, objective color value and componentry derivation for sustainable quasi-real-time monitoring of ongoing eruption materials.

Graphical Abstract
Solving the puzzle of the 1996 Biak, Indonesia tsunami
Authors: Pandadaran Sidiq Hargo , Yanagisawa Hideaki , Shibazaki Bunichiro , Fujii Yushiro , Miyagi Toyohiko , Gold David Patrick
Published: July 2024

On February 17, 1996, an earthquake ($${M}_{\text{w}}=$$

M
w

=

8.2) occurred northeast of Biak Island, Indonesia, and generated a tsunami. Interestingly, the tsunami runup on the southwest side of Biak Island, which did not face the epicenter, was higher than that on the side of the island facing the epicenter. It was earlier suggested that the earthquake triggered submarine landslides. However, this hypothesis remains unexplored and unconfirmed. In this study, tsunami arrival times obtained from eyewitness accounts were used to perform backward tsunami travel time modeling. Based on the backward tsunami travel time results and multibeam bathymetry, five submarine landslide candidates were identified: three located to the southwest of Biak Island and two to the south of the island. Our analysis indicates that tsunamis from a large submarine landslide off the southwest coast of Biak Island (SL 2) and a small submarine landslide off the south side of Biak Island (SL 4) contributed to the 1996 Biak tsunami event and came earlier than the main tsunami from the earthquake fault. Tsunami sources were earlier modeled only by fault parameters without considering submarine landslide sources. As a result, the models could not explain the observed runup and eyewitness tsunami arrival times for the southwest and south of Biak Island. To address this problem, we propose an approach that combines a submarine landslide model with a modified version of a previously proposed fault model. Our combined model explains the observed runup and eyewitness tsunami arrival times well (Aida’s index values of the model are K = 1.00 and $$\kappa$$
κ
= 1.44).

Graphical abstract
Assessing four decades of fire behavior dynamics in the Cerrado biome (1985 to 2022)
Authors: da Silva Arruda Vera Laísa , Alencar Ane Auxiliadora Costa , de Carvalho Júnior Osmar Abílio , de Figueiredo Ribeiro Fernanda , de Arruda Filipe Viegas , Conciani Dhemerson Estevão , da Silva Wallace Vieira , Shimbo Julia Zanin
Published: July 2024

Background

Fire significantly transforms ecology and landscapes worldwide, impacting carbon cycling, species interactions, and ecosystem functions. In the Brazilian Cerrado, a fire-dependent savanna, the interaction between fire, society, and the environment is evident. Given that wildfires significantly contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, our study aimed to analyze four decades of burned area data to understand changes in fire dynamics, using Collection 2 of annual MapBiomas Fire maps (1985 to 2022). Our study examined spatiotemporal patterns, fire recurrence, fire distribution across land uses, temporal changes in fire scar size, burned area variations across ecoregions, and their correlation with farming areas.

Results

From 1985 to 2022, fire impacted 40% (792,204 km2) of the Cerrado biome, with 63% burning more than once. Natural vegetation was the most affected, primarily due to human-driven ignition during the dry season. A noticeable trend of later peaks in fire activity, concentrated towards the end of the dry season, along with an increase in patch size over time, characterized a clear shift in the Cerrado fire regime. Recently, the MATOPIBA region and the northern biome exhibited significant fire clusters, with burned areas rising alongside farming expansion. The ecoregion-based analysis identified fire hotspots, with the "Bananal" ecoregion, the largest wetland area in the biome, exhibiting increased fire recurrence and larger patch size over time.

Conclusions

Our four-decade analysis of fire dynamics in the Cerrado revealed human-induced changes in the fire regime, originally shifting from July to September to a new fire season from August to October. This shift poses several environmental threats given their overlap with the driest months of the year. This study improved our understanding of changes in fire patterns and their impacts on each ecoregion and land use. Wetlands experienced the highest relative burned area, highlighting their ecological importance and increased vulnerability. In the southern Cerrado, where farming is established and natural vegetation more fragmented, fire events tend to decrease; while in the north, with recent farming expansion, fire susceptibility rises. Conservation-oriented strategies, like the Brazilian Integrated Fire Management (MIF), are crucial for mitigating impacts while enhancing the Cerrado’s resilience to climate change.
The Association Between Obesity and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: An Epidemiologic Study of Observational Data
Authors: Amiri Mina , Hatoum Sana , Hopkins Dawnkimberly , Buyalos Richard P , Ezeh Uche , Pace Lauren A , Bril Fernando , Sheidaei Ali , Azziz Ricardo
Published: July 2024

Background

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common female cardiometabolic-reproductive disorder. It is unclear whether the global obesity epidemic is impacting the high PCOS prevalence.

Objective

To determine the association between the prevalence of PCOS and obesity.

Materials and methods

A systematic review was conducted to identify population studies on PCOS prevalence globally through July 2023. Linear regression and random-effect models were applied to examine the association of mean body mass index (BMI) or obesity prevalence with the prevalence of PCOS diagnosed by 1990 National Institutes of Health (NIH), 2003 Rotterdam (Rotterdam), and 2006 Androgen Excess-PCOS (AE-PCOS) criteria. Subgroup analyses were also conducted for recruitment methods and study quality.

Results

Fifty-eight studies with 85 956 adults from 24 countries were included. Considering all available data, a borderline association was observed between PCOS and obesity prevalence when using the AE-PCOS but not the NIH or Rotterdam criteria. Alternatively, subgroup analysis of studies with better recruitment methods demonstrated a significant positive association of population mean BMI or obesity prevalence with PCOS prevalence when using the Rotterdam or AE-PCOS criteria, while using only high-quality studies revealed an association using NIH as well as Rotterdam and AE-PCOS criteria. Overall, we observed that a 1% increase in obesity prevalence resulted in an approximately 0.4% increase in PCOS prevalence by the Rotterdam criteria.

Conclusion

The prevalences of PCOS and obesity appear to be modestly associated, although our data cannot establish causality. This study also emphasizes the need to undertake only high-quality studies in assessing PCOS epidemiology
Prognostic model of pain syndrome of temporomandibular joint dysfunction in patients with occlusion-articulation disorders
Authors: Proshchenko Andriy
Published: July 2024

Resume. Diagnostic efficiency and treatment of TMJ dysfunction was and remains an important problem modern dentistry. The urgency of this problem is determined by the great the prevalence of this pathology, the annual increase in the number of patient appeals, variety of clinical manifestations, significant difficulties in diagnosis and treatment. The aim of the work was to predict the pain syndrome of functional disorders of the masticatory apparatus when planning orthopedic treatment. Research materials and methods. Clinical and laboratory examination and orthopedic treatment of 150 patients with various variants of occlusal disorders were carried out, in 90 of them functional disorders of the masticatory apparatus were not accompanied by pain syndrome (comparison group), in 60 patients (main group) - TMJ dysfunction with pain syndrome Research results. The statistically significant data obtained by us demonstrate that the multi-level mechanism of changes in microarchitectonics due to occlusal and articulatory disorders, the influence of gender and age, and other unmodified factor balance of the work of muscle-articular structures of the dento-maxillary system can clinically manifest as a pain syndrome, and therefore requires orthopedic treatment taking into account correction of intra-articular disorders. Conclusions. Multivariate analysis of the cumulative effect of factors on the risk of pain syndrome development of functional disorders of the masticatory apparatus in case of violation of occlusal-articulatory relations allowed to create a prognostic model (model sensitivity - 0.967%, specificity - 0.971%) with a Youden index of 1.0. This prognostic model can serve as an accurate tool for the development of TMJ dysfunction pain syndrome at the stage of orthopedic treatment planning.
Role of Micronutrient Supplementation in the Management of Hashimoto's Thyroiditis: A Review of Current Evidence and Potential Mechanisms of Action
Authors: Michalska Sara , Makuch Rafał , Gała Kamil , Lenard Paweł , Kucharski Adam , Pilarski Konrad , Dewicka Martyna , Wawrzyniak Alicja Maria , Chrościcka Alicja , Czajka Andrzej
Published: July 2024

Introduction and objective: Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT), the most prevalent autoimmune disorder and a primary cause of hypothyroidism globally, leads to thyroid gland damage through lymphocyte infiltration. Pharmacological treatment of HT involves the use of levothyroxine, which in most cases must be taken for life. However, supplementation with micronutrients is often overlooked. Several studies have examined the impact of substances such as selenium, zinc, vitamin B12, and vitamin D on the course of Hashimoto's disease.
Review methods: Review and summary of research studies available in open-source format on Google Scholar, PubMed.
Abbreviated description of the state of knowledge: Supplementation with selenium, zinc, vitamin D, and B12 shows potential benefits for patients with Hashimoto's disease.
Summary: Regular monitoring and tailored supplementation of selenium, zinc, vitamin D, and vitamin B12 can enhance overall health and disease management. Therefore, it is worth considering the supplementation of these micronutrients in the daily routine of patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis. However, it should be noted that these supplements do not constitute a treatment for Hashimoto's disease and their effect cannot replace the intake of levothyroxine.
Capsaicin in Pain Management A Spicy Solution to Chronic and Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Pilarski Konrad , Kucharski Adam , Makuch Rafał , Chrościcka Alicja , Gała Kamil , Czajka Andrzej , Lenard Paweł , Michalska Sara , Dewicka Martyna , Wawrzyniak Alicja Maria
Published: July 2024

Introduction and purpose:
Chronic pain, defined as pain persisting for three months or longer and neuropathic pain which is a type that arises as a result of damage or disease to the somatosensory system, including peripheral fibers (Aβ, Aδ, and C fibers) and central neurons, are serious conditions pose significant challenges for modern medicine. Addressing these challenges often necessitates a multimodal approach to analgesia, involving the use of multiple analgesic agents with different mechanisms of action. Among these agents is capsaicin, a naturally occurring compound found in hot peppers. This study will collect and analyze information about the applications of capsaicin in pain management, its mechanisms of action, efficacy, and safety
Brief description of the state of knowledge:
Capsaicin is a natural compound found in chili peppers. This alkaloid is a highly selective agonist of the TRPV1 vanilloid receptor. Upon activation of these receptors, skin nociceptors become less sensitive to stimuli. Incorporating capsaicin into standard chronic and neuropathic pain management may enhance, expedite, and streamline the complex process of treatment, ultimately contributing to improved quality of life for patients and communities. It also offers certain benefits in the treatment of obesity, cardiovascular and gastrointestinal pathologies, various types of cancers, neurogenic bladder, and some dermatological conditions.
Materials and Methods:
Review and summary of research studies available in databases on Google Scholar and
PubMed.
Summary:
Topically applied capsaicin, especially in the form of an 8% patch is a valuable option for treating peripheral chronic and neuropathic pain, including bone and joint pain. The highest quality evidence has been presented in postherpetic neuralgia and HIV-related pain, where treatment efficacy is comparable to standard treatment.
How can I help? An archetype-based approach to community interpreters’ solidarity
Authors: Garcia-Beyaert Sofia
Published: July 2024

Considering different archetypes —i.e., collective identity representations—helps to discern the multiple ways in which community and public service interpreters are compelled to be of help. I argue that archetypes are a useful analytical tool for interpreters: It allows them to name competing rationales for solidarity; it helps them identify underlying personal motivations that might otherwise remain unconscious; and it permits a conscious decision-making process for the search of ethical courses of action when faced with dilemmas. Conscious decision-making warrants coherent practice that aligns with high professional standards supporting the communicative autonomy of the parties to an interaction. In this article, I present both the model for this archetype-based approach to interpreters’ professional role as well as the analysis of three interpreters’ narrative accounts of their perceptions of role, solidarity, and the model proposed. This input from the field yields rich insights, illustrates the analytical power of the archetypes proposed, and suggests that an expansion of their list might be in order.
Argentine exiles in Spain: Translation as a practice of solidarity
Authors: Falcón Alejandrina
Published: July 2024

s part of its solidarity activities with Chilean, Uruguayan, and Argentine exiles in Catalonia, the NGO Agermanament led by Father Josep Ribera and the Lliga dels Drets dels Pobles published a register of exiles organized according to their professional activity in the magazine Agermanamentin 1979. The categories included in the list were “visual artists, doctors/psychologists, psychoanalysts and psychiatrists, musicians, actors and singers, publicists, jurists, architects, and photographers”. Translatorswere not included in the list, even thoughtheirprofessional status had been recognized by the UNESCO in 1976 and thousands of Latin American exiles who had fled dictatorships and arrived in Spain without refugee status were working as translators. Due to the toll on the publishing sector, heavily damaged by political and cultural repression, numerous exiled Latin American intellectuals and writers entered the Catalan publishing industryas translators, proofreaders, and editors. Thisarticle aims to shed light on the quantitative and qualitative importance of translation as a practice of solidarity within the publishing sector during the Spanish transition to democracy. I want to show that members of the Latin American diaspora contributed to the constitution of a transnational publishing space, which was possible thanks to the solidarity of local publishers and exiles who created a labor network through the commission of translations.
Identification of cross-equatorial northerly surge (CENS) relationship to very heavy rain events in Jakarta
Authors: Lestari Tri Anggun , Athallah M. Syauqi B. , Haryanto Yosafat D.
Published: July 2024

CENS is a meteorological phenomenon in the form of surface wind flow originating from the South China Sea (SCS), very strongly across the equator. CENS is closely related to the increase in average rainfall in parts of Indonesia. There has been very heavy rainfall on January 18, 2022 in the Jakarta area which resulted in flooding. Therefore, this study focuses on seeing if there is a CENS relationship that is factor in increasing rainfall in the Jakarta area on January 18, 2022. The results showed that the NCS began to form on January 16-17, 2022 with a Siberian High of 1040.6 hPa and the propagation of cold air masses from Asia to the south which was an indicator of CENS. The next day, the CENS phenomenon began to occur, characterized by meridional wind speeds in the 105˚- 115˚BT region of less than -5 m/s. This phenomenon triggers the strengthening of the northeast Asian monsoon flow so that the area south of the equator, including Jakarta, gets a large moisture transport from the SCS. This causes the potential for the formation of high convective clouds to trigger very heavy rain and cause flooding in the Jakarta area on January 18, 2022.
Effect of Sintering Temperature on Crystal Structure and Conductivity of the CaCO3-Doped Li4Ti5O12 Anodes from Blood Clam Shells (Anadara granosa)
Authors: Saputra Marhan Ebit , Putri Megawati Ayu , Febrianti Eka , Kurniawan Widodo Budi
Published: July 2024

CaCO3-doped Li4Ti5O12 was synthesized by solid-state method with sintering temperatures at 750 °C, 800 °C, and 850 °C. The source of CaCO3 was used from blood clam shells (Anadara granosa) with a content of 97.67%. The influence of sintering temperature on crystal structure and conductivity of CaCO3-doped Li4Ti5O12 are extensively studied. XRD results show there is no CaCO3 phase found, which indicates that the doping of Li4Ti5O12 with CaCO3 has been successful. The smallest crystallite size was obtained at a sintering temperature of 800 °C, which is 46.49 nm, which is beneficial for shortening diffusion length and facilitating the electron and ion transport, causing an increase in anode conductivity. The most optimal conductivity was obtained in samples with a sintering temperature of 800 °C with a conductivity of 2.46 x 10-4 S/cm. When the sintering temperature is increased to 850 °C, the particles tend to agglomerate and deteriorate the electrochemical properties.
Development of Photoelectric Effect Learning Media based on Arduino Uno
Authors: Hamzah Hardi , Sartika Dewi , Agriawan Muhammad Nurkhalis
Published: July 2024

This study aims to develop a photoelectric effect learning media based on Arduino Uno. The subjects in this study were students who took Modern Physics courses. The media development procedure uses the Borg and Gall model, which is limited to seven stages. The feasibility of the developed media refers to the results of the media expert's assessment, the level of practicality, and the effectiveness of the media. The test results show that the product's Planck constant of 6.62 × 10-34 J.s corresponds to the theoretical value. Three experts concluded that the learning media had a good level of feasibility to be used as an experimental tool. The level of practicality and effectiveness of the media showed good results. That is, practical and effective media to be used in experiments. So, it can be concluded that the Arduino Uno-based photoelectric effect learning media that has been developed is suitable for use in learning.