bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current suburbanisation trends in the Czech Republic and spatial transformation of retail
Authors: Ptáček Pavel , Szczyrba Zdeněk
Published: April 2024

The main topic of the article is commercial suburbanisation in the Czech Republic on the example of changes in retail. In the first part it is described the mechanism of suburbanisation, its causes, forms and social, economic and ecological consequences. In the next part we deal with the transition of retail, its spatial dimension with special regard to suburbanisation process. Spatial changes in retail on the example of Olomouc and their causes and consequences are described.
Spatial mobility of the employed population and occupational structure of the labour force in industry of the Tuzla valley
Authors: Nurković Rahman
Published: April 2024

The objective of this paper is to show, to a certain extent, daily migrations of labour force in industry of the Tuzla valley. In addition to Tuzla, the three centres are distinguished according to importance of their function of work: Lukavac, Živinice and Banovići. On one hand, we have a strong concentration of industrial jobs, and on the other, almost unindustrialised remaining territory.
The significance of regional planning
Authors: Černe Andrej
Published: April 2024

The article is a short summary of lectures at the 1st International Summer School GEOREGNET held at Faculty of Arts, University of Maribor in Maribor 23 September, 2008. The aim of the lecture was to discuss some of the basic dilemmas about the role of regional planning in a contemporary society within the context of market economy.
Negative Impacts of Forest Fires on Ecological Balance and Environmental Sustainability: Case of Turkey
Authors: Bakirci Muzaffer
Published: April 2024

Forests are a vital element in the Earth’s ecological balance, economy, biodiversity, water resources and air purity. On the other hand, forests are confronted with various threats – one of them being fires. Its distinctive geographical features provide Turkey with rich plant diversity along with an imbalance in the dispersion of forested land. 27% of Turkey’s surface area is covered by forests, most of which are concentrated on the coastal lands and their hinterlands. 2.135 forest fires were recorded in Turkey in 2008, resulting in a loss of 29.749 ha of forest. Although this figure translates into a decrease of 25% in the number of fires, the amount of destroyed forestland increased by 155% with respect to the previous year. This paper questions the incendiary causes and negative effects of fires in the case of Turkey.
The Importance of Complementarity in the Territorial Cohesion and Sustainability of Rural Areas: The Case of Cambres, a Douro Winegrowing Area, and Magueija, a Mountainous Area
Authors: Pina Helena
Published: April 2024

Although the rural world reveals several troubling trends, such as demographic decline and stagnation/deterioration of the economic framework, there are multiple potentialities requiring urgent vitalization. Furthermore, heterogeneity predominates, a fact that becomes very clear when comparing the territorial setting of Cambres, a parish located in the Lamego municipality, part of the Douro winegrowing area and the area classified as World Heritage by UNESCO, with another parish set within mountainous terrain, Magueija, also located in the Lamego municipality, whose endogenous potential is completely neglected. As such, many challenges compromise its development and conformance with one of the main strategic vectors for the region, which is territorial cohesion.
Livestock revolution in tropical monsoon countries: some challenges and issues
Authors: Khan Nizamuddin , Iqubal Asif , Rehman Anisur
Published: April 2024

Livestock husbandry is one of the important demand driven sectors of agriculture in the world. It acts as a global resource in the form of food, income, nutrients, employment, insurance, clothing and others purposes. It plays a vital role in socio-economic development of the farmers. Demand of livestock products is increasing on account of increasing population, changing food habits of the middle class population and urbanization in developing Asian countries. This paper seeks to understand the pattern of growth of livestock number as well as their products and to identify the issues and challenges emerged on account of dynamics in livestock husbandry in Monsoon Asian countries. By analyzing the recorded data of FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) in different years paper enables to state that all species of livestock showed positive growth rate with the exception of sheep and pigs. Now the livestock husbandry showing the structural change i.e. in general it is shifting from horizontal expansion to vertical expansion in most of the study region. The livestock improved tremendously and achieved a great success in raising livestock derived products. Various issues and challenges of livestock husbandry are now deserved for academic and scientific discussion as a result of livestock revolution in world in general and tropical monsoon countries in particular.
Problemy z opisem. Teatr i inne atrakcje w Łodzi przed I wojną światową
Authors: Olkusz Piotr
Published: April 2024

Od czasu pierwszego znanego nam profesjonalnego przedstawienia teatralnego w Łodzi (1844) miejscowe środowiska opiniotwórcze zgłaszały postulat powołania do życia stałego teatru polskojęzycznego w tym mieście. W znacznej mierze było to podyktowane postromantycznym przekonaniem o konieczności podkreślenia polskości miasta przez usytuowanie w nim stałej instytucji kultury wysokiej – było to tym ważniejsze, że relatywnie prężnie rozwijał się teatr mniejszości niemieckiej i żydowskiej. W myśl za tym projektem wielokrotnie – w tym na łamach prasy – kreślono najwłaściwszy repertuar dla takiej sceny, szczególne miejsce rezerwując dla narodowych, najlepiej poważnych, dramatów o wydźwięku patriotycznym. Kolejne próby stworzenia takiej sceny kończyły się niepowodzeniami, wzmagając frustrację dużej części lokalnych elit i przyczyniając się do tworzenia mitu o mieście niechętnym sztuce dramatycznej. Tymczasem mieszkańcy Łodzi mieli szansę oglądania repertuaru rozrywkowego pokazywanego w podobnym okresie w innych dużych miastach Europy, co świadczyć może i o zadziwiającej aktywności zespołów wędrownych, i o gustach łodzian nieodbiegających od upodobań miast przemysłowych Zachodu. Co więcej, Łódź stała się także kolebką polskiego teatru ludowego – szczególnego rodzaju przedsięwzięcia teatralnego adresowanego do publiczności robotniczej i wzorowanego na podobnych teatrach w Europie.
El arte como espejo del horror: entrevista a Juan Manuel Echavarría
Authors: Arias Herrera Juan Carlos
Published: April 2024

Por más de 25 años, el artista colombiano Juan Manuel Echavarría se ha dedicado a investigar la violencia del conflicto armado en Colombia a través del arte. Principalmente a través de la fotografía, pero también experimentando con otros medios como el video y la instalación, su obra ha intentado revelar aspectos de la guerra que han permanecido invisibles, imperceptibles. Dentro de la avalancha de imágenes y relatos de la violencia que existen hoy en Colombia, y en muchos otros países que han sufrido la guerra, es importante preguntarse por el papel del arte, por aquello que lo diferencia de uno u otro modo, y que le permite construir memoria desde lugares inesperados.
Involving women in the apparatus of the Volost Executive Committees of the Komi Autonomous Region in the 1920s
Authors: Karakchiev V.
Published: April 2024

The paper deals with the study of the activities of government bodies to attract women to the grassroots management apparatus in the 1920s, as well as consideration of the implementation of this work using the example of the Komi Autonomous Region. The study considers certain normative legal acts concerning the involvement of female workers and peasants to work in Soviet government bodies. They legislated gender equality between men and women and proposed to select the most capable delegates to work in the grassroots authorities. The most important aspects of the functioning of the Volost Eexecutive Committees are revealed, including a description of the directions of socio-economic and cultural work. Data on the number of women in the grassroots Soviet apparatus are considered. In general, women’s social activity increased: from 1922 to 1927 their number in the Volost Executive Committees of the country increased from 0.3% to 10.1%, participants in the elections to the Soviets of the Komi Autonomous Region per 100 people from 1924 to 1927 - from 8% to 45% and members of the Presidium of the Volost Executive Committee from 1925 to 1927 – from 0.7% to 2.1%. In the 1920s, the prerequisites were laid for increased activity and a gradual increase in the number of women in government.
Examination of Pre-Service Teachers' Experiences on Student-Centered Instruction
Authors: Demir Fehmi
Published: April 2024

The teaching approach, in which the student is at the center of learning, is becoming more and more common. The teacher is an important factor in the implementation of this approach. Pre-service education plays an important role in the qualified training of teachers. If teacher candidates learn student-centered teaching through experience at the university, they are expected to apply it more easily when they start working. In this direction, it was aimed to examine the student-centered teaching experiences of pre-service teachers. It is supposed that pre-service teachers' views on this process will contribute to the development of pre-service teacher education. The research was carried out with the phenomenology design, and 67 pre-service teachers were included in the research with the criterion sampling method. The research data collected with an open-ended questionnaire form were analyzed by content analysis. According to the results of the research, pre-service teachers think that student-centered teaching encourages them, makes them effective, and provides them with skills. Because of these features, they consider the approach as an effective learning approach and think that the experiences give them emotional awareness and improve their professional competencies. However, pre-service teachers experience educational problems such as indecision, anxiety, lack of self-confidence and knowledge, and inexperience while performing student-centered teaching.
A produção científica brasileira sobre a História da Educação em circulação internacional (2008-2022)
Authors: Neves Vanusa Nascimento Sabino , Machado Charliton José dos Santos
Published: April 2024

Objetivou-se analisar a produção científica sobre História da Educação publicada pelos pesquisadores brasileiros indexada na base de dados Web of Science no período de 2008 a 2022. Desenvolveu-se um estudo bibliométrico, que analisou 229 produtos. O programa VOSviewer ancorou o processamento e a análise dos dados. Até o ano de 2016, a produção era bastante diminuta, com um a quatro artigos por ano. A partir de 2017, tornou-se mais expressiva, com 31 a 54. A produção emergiu de 373 autores e houve coautoria com 12 países. A temática abrangeu múltiplas categorias relacionadas à História da Educação, com destaque para a preservação das fontes historiográficas. Conclui-se que é importante ampliar a produção científica brasileira em História da Educação no âmbito internacional e o fortalecimento das redes de colaboração pode ser uma estratégia promissora.
Literacia nutricional e literacia alimentar: uma revisão narrativa sobre definição, domínios e ferramentas de avaliação
Authors:   Associação Portuguesa de Nutrição, Rua João das Regras, n.º  278 e 284, R/C3,  4000-291 Porto, Portugal, Torres Rafael ,   Instituto Universitário de Ciências da Saúde, Cooperativa de Ensino  Superior Politécnico e  Universitário,  Rua Central da Gandra,  n.º 1317,  Gandra, Portugal, Real Helena ,   Associação Portuguesa de Nutrição, Rua João das Regras, n.º  278 e 284, R/C3,  4000-291 Porto, Portugal,   Instituto Universitário de Ciências da Saúde, Cooperativa de Ensino  Superior Politécnico e  Universitário,  Rua Central da Gandra,  n.º 1317,  Gandra, Portugal
Published: April 2024

O aumento das doenças relacionadas com a alimentação tem sido associado a maus hábitos alimentares e a baixos níveis de conhecimentos e competências relacionados com a alimentação. Por isso mesmo a Literacia Alimentar e a Literacia Nutricional têm ganho cada vez mais relevância na promoção da saúde. A Literacia Nutricional concentra-se nas capacidades para compreender informações relacionadas com nutrientes, enquanto que a Literacia Alimentar constitui um conceito mais holístico, capaz de abordar todos os conhecimentos e competências necessários para escolhas alimentares e comportamentos mais saudáveis. Tendo em conta a falta de consenso na literatura relativamente a estes dois conceitos, a definição de Vidgen & Gallegos (2014) sobre Literacia Alimentar é a mais completa e inclusiva até à data. Foram analisadas 18 ferramentas de avaliação de Literacia Nutricional e Literacia Alimentar, e identificadas as ferramentas SPFL e IT-FLS como as mais indicadas para uma futura aplicação na população portuguesa. Apesar disto, existe ainda necessidade de uma maior investigação no sentido de desenvolver uma ferramenta suficientemente abrangente que permita avaliar e comparar níveis de Literacia Alimentar como um todo, e por sua vez trabalhar na melhoria da saúde das populações.
Visual-Servo Micromanipulation Platform for Patterned and Complex Organoid Biofabrication
Authors: Gao Huijun , Tong Mingsi , HUANG GANG , Zhuang Songlin , Jiang Meng
Published: April 2024

Microwells array-based cellular self-assembly approaches are frequently utilized in organoid manufacturing due to their ability to generate consistent 3D cell spheroids. However, in the context of the microenvironments contained, multiple organ combinations and other complex organoid biofabrication processes are essential, and the lack of controllable inter- and intra-wells heterogeneity has hindered the broader application of these approaches. In this study, we introduce a micromanipulation-based robotic platform that integrates advanced robotic technology and visual-servo systems to enable the patterned and complex organoid biofabrication. By addressing cell seeding-induced fluid perturbations within microwells, we effectively control the spatial distribution of cell, promote self-assembly and achieve precisely arranged of varied types tissue spheroids. This platform supports advancements in complex organoid-based biomechanism discovery, drug screening, and other organoid-based investigations.
Bacterial Diversity Associated with Feeding Boschveld Indigenous Chickens with Sorghum-Based Diets
Authors: Nemukondeni Ndivho , Mafuna Thendo , Sebola Amanda Nthabiseng , Mbajiorgu Christian Anayochukwu , Mabelebele Monnye
Published: April 2024

The metagenomics technique was applied to assess the effects of sorghum-based diets on the gut microbes of Boschveld indigenous chickens. A total of 420 unsexed, day-old Boschveld indigenous chickens, in a completely randomized design, were assigned to a three sorghum varieties (red, brown, and white) x 5 inclusion levels (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100%) x 4 replicate with 7 chicks per replicate for 90 days. The bacterial communities at alpha diversity indices at observed; Shannon and Simpson indexes were more abundant at day 90 of sample collection than on day 60. The group of chickens offered diets with 50% (level 3) inclusion of sorghum varieties had more bacteria than other inclusion levels. The dominant bacteria communities at the phylum level were Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, and Bacteroidia, while Lactobacillus - Aviarius, Comamoducuae, and Methylobacterium were dominant at the genus level. Boschveld chickens fed diets with the white sorghum variety were the only group with 1% of Campybacterales present in their guts compared to groups fed red and brown sorghum varieties at the phylum level. The same group of chickens fed diets, including the white sorghum variety, showed Streptococcus at 6%, which was unique to the guts of this group compared to their counterparts at the genus level. This study provided information about how feeding different diets influences bacterial diversity and dominance in chickens' gut microbiomes.
Kinetic modelling of aromaticity and water colour changes during diclofenac oxidation by UV/H2O2
Authors: Villota Natalia , Echevarria Begoña , De Luis Ana
Published: April 2024

Diclofenac (DCF) is degraded by UV/H2O2 following first-order kinetics to highly aromatic species, while generating an intense yellow tint in the water. During the oxidation, turbidity remains under 1 NTU. The formation of aromatic intermediates has been modelled considering a first-order series reaction system, where DCF degrades to aromatic species (anilines and phenols), according to a kinetic constant kDCF,254=0.3 (1/min), until the maximum concentration of aromatic compounds \({\text{[}{\text{A}}_{\text{254}}\text{]}}_{\text{max }}\text{=0.2116 }{\text{[}{\text{H}}_{\text{2}}{\text{O}}_{\text{2}}\text{]}}_{\text{0}}^{\text{0.6}}\text{ – 0.9327 }{\text{[}{\text{H}}_{\text{2}}{\text{O}}_{\text{2}}\text{]}}_{\text{0 }}^{\text{0.3}}\text{+ 3.3602}\). The aromaticity then decreases, following kArom (1/min), as carboxylic acids (acetic, formic) and inorganic ions (CO2, NO3−, Cl−) are created. The evolution of colour presents the kinetics of a reaction intermediate following first-order kinetics, where DCF degrades to coloured intermediates (quinone-like compounds), in agreement with kDCF,455=0.2 (1/min), until reaching a maximum intensity \({\text{[Colour]}}_{\text{max }}\text{=0.0043 }{\text{[}{\text{H}}_{\text{2}}{\text{O}}_{\text{2}}\text{]}}_{\text{0}}^{}\text{ - 0.0538 }{\text{[}{\text{H}}_{\text{2}}{\text{O}}_{\text{2}}\text{]}}_{\text{0 }}^{\text{0.5}}\text{+ 0.2758. }\) After, tint diminishes following a kinetic constant kColour (1/min). Conducting with ratios over 1 mol DCF : 6 mol H2O2, waters with colourless appearance, low aromaticity and DCF degradation output >95% are attained. Both aromaticity and colour elimination rates increase with the oxidant concentration, reaching their maximum kArom=0.08 (1/min) and kColour=0.14 (1/min) when using 1 mol DCF : 150 mol H2O2. When performing with higher molar ratios, the kinetic constants slow down, due to the self-decomposition of H2O2 that acts as a HO• scavenger agent.
Investigation of multifaceted wound healing effect of exopolysaccharide (EPS) produced from probiotic strain Lactiplantibacillus plantarum GD2 as in vitro and in ovo
Authors: Demir Abdullah , Aslim Belma
Published: April 2024

Skin wounds may threaten quality of life and cause serious complications. This study aimed to investigate the effects of lyophilized exopolysaccharide (L-EPS) obtained from the probiotic strain Lactiplantibacillus plantarum GD2 on various stages of wound healing. The results revealed that L-EPS accelerated in vitro wound healing and increased COL1A1 in L929 cells. L-EPS affected the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway by increasing the expression of the TGF-β1, Smad2, Smad3, and Smad4 genes. L-EPS also exerted anti-inflammatory effects by reducing the gene expression of IL-1β, IL-6 and iNOS in TNF-α-induced fibroblasts. Additionally, L-EPS demonstrated fibroproliferative effect on both healthy and TNF-α-induced fibroblasts. Furthermore, L-EPS was found to have a proangiogenic effect in ovo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model. This study presents the first-ever characterization of the multifaceted effects of L-EPS derived from the probiotic strain L. plantarum GD2 on wound healing. Our findings highlight the potential of L-EPS as effective agent for wound healing and suggest possible application in the development of wound healing biomaterials. By elucidating the mechanism of action of L-EPS in wound healing, this research may provide new perspectives for advanced treatment strategies in the field of wound care.
Study on the Configuration Causal Factors of Electric power Generation Safety Incidents Based on Grounded Theory and fsQCA
Authors: Zhu Lin , Xiong Ke , Pang Min
Published: April 2024

Electric power generation safety incidents can lead to severe consequences, including casualties and widespread power outages. Previous research has mainly focused on the mechanisms and causal relationships of accidents. However, these incidents result from multiple factors working together, lacking systematic analysis. This study examines 161 electric power generation safety incidents from 2015 to 2022, utilizing grounded theory for coding to construct a causal model. The derived model is used as a conditional variable for fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA), with accident severity as the outcome variable. Forty-five cases are selected for assigning values, and R language and fsQCA software are integrated for univariate necessary condition analysis, followed by configurational analysis. Results show the grounded theory-derived causal model includes six factors: human unsafe behavior, equipment factors, enterprise safety management, on-site safety management, safety qualifications of personnel, and environmental factors. Necessary condition analysis indicates incidents result from multiple conditions. Configurational analysis identifies seven paths condensed into three types: management deficiency, low safety qualifications, and unsafe behavior. Recommendations are proposed for each type, discussing intrinsic connections between variables based on conditional variables in configurational paths. The aim is to reduce electric power generation safety incidents, ensure personnel safety, and guarantee continuous electricity supply.
Effect of Common Ions in Natural Water on the Generation of Trihalomethanes by Chlorination
Authors: Fu Shijun , Feng Yu , Zhang Dongdong , Long Xiaoxia , Ma Haixiang , Li Yonghui
Published: April 2024

In the present study, the effect of common ions, such as Br-, NH4+, Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Fe3+ and Al3+ in natural water on the generation of THMs in the process of chlorination has been investigated. The effect of Br- and NH4+ was significant while in the case of Na+ and K+ was not significant. Furthermore, divalent metal ions (Ca2+, Mg2+) and trivalent metal ions (Fe3+ and Al3+) have the ability to form complexes with humic acids. Thus, the trend of THMs generation was complicated in different conditions. It can be seen that Ca2+ ions had little effect on the formation of THMs. In contrast, the effect of Mg2+ was more obviously, showing a trend of decreasing first and then increasing. The effect of Fe3+ and Al3+ on THMs was similar to that of Mg2+, the concentration of THMs also showed a trend of decreasing firstly and then increasing.
Rapid breeding of an early maturing, high-quality, and high-yielding rice cultivar using marker‑assisted selection coupled with optimized anther culture
Authors: Chen Junxiao , Li Sanhe , Zhou Lei , Zha Wenjun , Xu Huashan , Liu Kai
Published: April 2024

With the global shift towards healthier eating habits, the focus of the rice industry has evolved from quantity to quality. In China, the Yangtze River Basin is the main area consuming long-grain and high-quality indica rice. Hubei Province, a significant rice-producing area, currently cultivates a limited range of rice varieties, risking degradation and diminishing economic returns. Therefore, it is imperative to cultivate elite rice varieties tailored to the local production conditions and can significantly enhance the added value. This study bred the novel rice cultivar “Runxiangyu”, characterized by early maturity, high quality, and high yield. It is a hybrid of Ezhong 5, known for its moderate height and excellent quality, albeit with a long growth period and lack of fragrance, and Yuzhenxiang, renowned for its high quality, short growth period, and fragrance but limited by its tall stature and poor tillering ability. The breeding process utilized optimized anther culture coupled with molecular marker-assisted selection (MAS) and phenotype analysis. In the field, the developed cultivar was 120.9 cm tall and had an entire growth period of 117.5 days, demonstrating moderate disease resistance and excellent heat tolerance. Its grains are fragrant, meeting the national standard of grade two high-quality rice set by the Food Quality Supervision and Inspection Center of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Areas). Exhibiting superior agronomic traits, such as plant type, height, growth period, and stress resistance, along with and quality attributes, including grain shape, chalkiness, fragrance, and taste, “Runxiangyu” was certified by the Agricultural Crop Variety Certification Commission of Hubei in 2022. These findings suggested that molecular MAS coupled with optimized anther culture and multi-site phenotype analysis is an efficient and rapid method for crop breeding.
Indirect comparison of finerenone and SGLT 2 inhibitors in established chronic kidney disease: evidence based on Bayesian methods
Authors: Chen Hai-Bin , Li Dong-Yi , Meng Rong-Sen , Yang Yao-Lin , Yu Tian-Hao
Published: April 2024

Background
Head-to-head comparison of finerenone and SGLT2 inhibitors in patients with established chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains absent.
Methods and results
All dedicated CKD trials about finerenone versus placebo or SGLT2 inhibitors versus placebo were searched. A Bayesian approach to network meta-analysis was applied. In patients with CKD, no significant difference in the composite of renal outcomes (OR 1.14, 95% CI 0.92–1.88), the composite of cardiovascular death or hospitalization for heart failure (OR 0.94, 95% CI 0.58–1.56), all-cause mortality (OR 1.04, 95% CI 0.78–1.43), and cardiovascular death (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.73–1.35) was observed between finerenone and SGLT2 inhibitors. In patients with type 2 diabetes and CKD, no significant difference in the composite of renal outcomes (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.50–1.69), the composite of cardiovascular death or hospitalization for heart failure (OR 0.86, 95% CI 0.48–1.62), all-cause mortality (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.74–1.28), and cardiovascular death (OR 0.95, 95% CI 0.65–1.38) was observed between finerenone and SGLT2 inhibitors. We ranked the risk of the major outcomes in patients with CKD. As a result, dapagliflozin was identified as having the lowest risk of renal outcomes and all-cause mortality, while canagliflozin was identified as having the lowest risk of cardiovascular outcomes.
Conclusions
In patients with CKD, there was no significant difference in the major outcomes between finerenone and SGLT2 inhibitors; however, dapagliflozin and canagliflozin may be associated with the lowest risk of the major outcomes.
Sildenafil Citrate Induces Prostatic Hyperplasia in BPH Model Rats and Aged Rats
Authors: Huang Sisi , Huang Dongyan , Su Xin , Yang Rongfu , Shao Congcong , Jiang Juan , Li Jun , Wu Jianhui
Published: April 2024

Erectile dysfunction (ED), a prevalent disease among middle-aged and elderly males, significantly impacts both patient and partner quality of life. Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor (PDE5i) represents an effective therapeutic method for ED. Given their widespread global utilization, concerns arise regarding potential reproduction-related problems arising from clinical use. During the extensive development of PDE5i, we speculated that the potential of these inhibitors to variably induce prostatic hyperplasia, but this field remains unexplored. In order to verify the male reproductive toxicity of PDE5i, sildenafil citrate at doses of 5, 10 and 20 mg/kg was administered in BPH model rats and aged rats. Anatomical and pathological analyses indicate a compelling association between sildenafil citrate administration and the promotion of prostatic hyperplasia in both BPH model rats and aged rats. Serum analyses revealed a notable increase in serum prostate binding protein (PBP) in BPH model rats following sildenafil citrate administration. Furthermore, significant increase in serum levels of E2 and T, as well as T in dorsal lobe prostate tissue of aged rats, were observed compared to the model control group. The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) microarray demonstrated that sildenafil citrate upregulated Fgfb1 and Tmeff1 within the EMT signaling pathway of the dorsal lobe prostate in BPH model rats, concurrently down-regulating Itga5, Versican and Vimentin. These results confirm the hypothesis that sildenafil citrate has reproductive toxicity in males and suggest that the EMT signaling pathway has a potential role in the proliferation of the dorsal lobe prostate in BPH model rats.
Real-life use of ropeg-interferon α2b in Polycythemia Vera: patient selection and clinical outcomes
Authors: Palandri Francesca , Branzanti Filippo , Venturi Marta , Dedola Alessandra , Fontana Gabriele , Loffredo Michele , Patuelli Agnese , Ottaviani Emanuela , Bersani Marco , Reta Massimo , Addimanda Olga , Vicennati Valentina , Vianelli Nicola , Cavo Michele
Published: April 2024

Background

Ropeginterferon-alfa2b (ropegIFNα2b) is a long-acting IFN formulation with broad FDA/EMA approval as a therapy of polycythemia vera (PV) with no symptomatic splenomegaly.
There is currently lack of information on the real-world patient selection, including the impact of local reimbursement policies, and drug management, particularly: type/timing of screening and follow-up tests; absolute/relative contraindications to therapy; ropegIFNα2b dose and combinations with hydroxyurea.

Methods

As a sub-analysis of the PV-ARC retrospective study (NCT06134102), we here report our monocenter experience with ropegIFNα2b in the period from January 2021, corresponding to drug availability outside clinical trial, and December 2023.

Results

Among the 149 patients with EMA/FDA indication, only 55 (36.9%) met the local reimbursement criteria and 18 (12.1%) received ropegIFNα2b. Thanks to appropriate screening, relative/absolute contraindications to ropegIFNα2b were detected and managed in a multidisciplinary manner. Efficacy and safety of ropegIFNα2b was confirmed, with 3 cases of early molecular response. General use of low ropegIFNα2b dose, with frequent need for hydroxyurea combinations, was noted.

Conclusions

This real-world experience suggests a significant impact of local regulations on drug prescription and the need for greater real-world data collection on ropegIFNα2b in PV patients. Also, it describes appropriate multidisciplinary screening and monitoring procedures during ropegIFNα2b therapy.
Effects of three prophylactic interventions on French middle-schoolers' mental health: protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Vaillant-Coindard Eugénie , Briet Gaëtan , Lespiau Florence , Gisclard Béatrice , Charbonnier Elodie
Published: April 2024

Adolescence is a strategic developmental stage in terms of preventing later difficulties and ensuring good mental health. Prophylactic interventions, which are conducted before the onset, prolongation, or worsening of difficulties, and aim to prevent or reduce symptoms or to promote wellbeing, therefore appear particularly appropriate for adolescents. However, existing prophylactic interventions conducted with adolescents have several weaknesses, including sparse theoretical frameworks, ambivalent evidence of their efficacy, and implementation and dissemination difficulties. In addition, no data are currently available on the effectiveness of such interventions in France. To fill this gap, a four-arm randomized controlled trial will be performed to assess the effectiveness of three prophylactic interventions targeting reactive, proactive and interpersonal adaptation in fourth-grade middle-school students, together with participants’ experience and perception of the interventions. Based on existing knowledge about adolescents, their learning mechanisms, and field constraints, these three interventions have been designed to promote their learning and receptiveness to interventions. Compared with baseline (i.e., before the intervention), we expect to observe a significant decrease in the level of distress (anxiety and depressive symptoms, functional impairment, and psychosocial difficulties) and a significant increase in the level of wellbeing after the intervention, across the three intervention groups, but not in the control group. In addition, we expect to observe post-intervention improvements in the processes targeted by the reactive adaptation intervention (operationalized as coping strategy use and flexibility), those targeted by the proactive adaptation intervention (operationalized as the tendency to engage in committed actions and general self-efficacy), and those targeted by the interpersonal adaptation intervention (operationalized as assertiveness in interactions), but only in the corresponding groups, with no change in any of these processes in the control group. The results of this research will not only enrich our knowledge of the processes involved in adolescents’ distress and wellbeing, but also provide clues as to the best targets for intervention. Moreover, the material for these interventions will be freely available in French on request to the corresponding author, providing access to innovative and fully assessed interventions aimed at promoting adolescents’ mental health in France. This clinical trial is currently being registered under no. 2023-A01973-42 on https://ansm.sante.fr/. This is the first version of the protocol.
Coral-seeding devices with fish-exclusion features reduce mortality on the Great Barrier Reef
Authors: Whitman Taylor Nicole , Hoogenboom Mia , Negri Andrew , Randall Carly
Published: April 2024

Restoration methods that seed juvenile corals show promise as scalable interventions to promote population persistence through anthropogenic warming. However, challenges including predation by fishes can threaten coral survival. Coral-seeding devices with refugia from fishes offer potential solutions to limit predation-driven mortality. In an 8-month field study, we assessed the efficacy of such devices for increasing the survival of captive-reared Acropora digitifera (spat and microfragments) over control devices (featureless and caged). Devices with fish-exclusion features demonstrated a 2-fold increase in coral survival, while most corals seeded without protection suffered mortality within 48 hours. Overall, spat faced more grazing and higher mortality compared to microfragments, and upward-facing corals were more vulnerable than side-facing corals. Grazing-induced mortality varied by site, with lower activity in locations abundant in mat-forming cyanobacteria or Scleractinian corals. Many scraping parrotfish were found feeding on or near the seeded corals; however, bites by Scarus globiceps explained the most site-related variation in grazing. Cyanobacteria may be preferred over corals as a nutritional resource for scraping parrotfish—advancing our understanding of their foraging ecology. Incorporating side-facing refugia in seeding devices and deploying to sites with nutrient-rich food sources for fish are potential strategies to enhance coral survival in restoration programs.
TransU2Net: A Hybrid Network for Retinal Layer Segmentation in OCT
Authors: Zhu Zhean , Chen Yiwei , Shi Guohua , He Yi
Published: April 2024

The retina, a transparent membrane at the eye’s back, is crucial for capturing light signals. OCT provides a non-invasive method for high-resolution imaging of these layers. Its complex, uneven structure, along with OCT imaging low contrast and noise, complicates segmentation for clinical or research applications. Different eye diseases variably affect retinal layers. This paper introduces TransU2Net, a hybrid network for retinal layer segmentation in OCT images. TransU2Net combines U2-Net and Transformer architectures, utilizing U2Net_Half Encoder for feature extraction and a Transformer module to capture global and local features. Additionally, the model incorporates a Convolutional Block Attention Module (CBAM) in its decoder to enhance its performance. We conducted ablation experiments on our collected dataset to demonstrate the respective roles of U2Net_Half_Encoder and CBAM in the encoding and decoding processes. Subsequently, we compared the TransU2Net with other state-of-the-art (SOTA) models. On the private dataset, the average Dice and IoU achieved 91.64% and 84.80%. On the Duke OCT dataset, the average Dice achieved 84.80%, surpassing other SOTA models in both datasets.
CRISPR/Cas9-engineering of Kell null erythrocytes to unveil host targeted irresistible antimalarial
Authors: Singh Shailja , Kumari Geeta , Gupta Pragya , Goswami Sangam , Jain Ravi , Anand Sakshi , Biswas Shreeja , Garg Swati , Thakur Priya , Saravanakumar Vinodh , Goswami Bidhan , Bhowmick Ipshita , Mohandas Narla , Burrows Jeremy , Ramalingam Sivaprakash
Published: April 2024

Malaria elimination faces challenges from drug resistance, stemming from mutations within the parasite's genetic makeup. Genetic adaptations in key erythrocyte proteins offer malaria protection in endemic regions. Emulating nature's approach, and implementing methodologies to render indispensable host proteins inactive, holds the potential to reshape antimalarial therapy. This study delves into the functional implication of the single-span membrane protein Kell ectodomain, which shares consensus sequence with the zinc endopeptidase family, possesses extracellular enzyme activity crucial for parasite invasion into host erythrocytes. Through generating Kell-null erythrocytes from an erythroid progenitor, BEL-A, we demonstrate the indispensable nature of Kell activity in P. falciparum invasion. Additionally, thiorphan, a metallo-endopeptidase inhibitor, which specifically inhibits Kell activity, inhibited Plasmodium infection at nanomolar concentrations. Interestingly, individuals in malaria-endemic regions exhibit low Kell expression and activity, indicating a plausible Plasmodium-induced evolutionary pressure. Both thiorphan and its prodrug racecadotril, demonstrated potent antimalarial activity in vivo, highlighting Kell's protease role in invasion and proposing thiorphan as a promising host-oriented antimalarial therapeutic.
Race Against Time: A Conversation Analysis of Ambulance Doctors’ Strategies
Authors: Tian Yinong , Ma Jizhi , Li Xin , Su Yonggang
Published: April 2024

Objective:
Emergency nursing is one of the most challenging and understaffed areas of professional nursing. This study looks at the ambulance doctors’ strategies towards emergency decision making.
Methods:
A multi-modal conversation analysis study in a comprehensive 3A hospital is carried out. 27 video recordings are identified, involving 27 patients, 45 patients’ relatives, 40 emergency doctors, and 20 ambulance drivers.
Results:
Based on the analysis of doctor-patient-relative interaction, we conclude that a series of multi modal strategies adopted by ambulance doctors for emergency nursing practices. In terms of patient transfer, a comfortable transfer condition could be better presented with interruption avoidance and cushion sequences. As for the patient evaluation, the utilization of embodied resources along with the relatives’ participation serves a strategy. The flow of handover teamwork requires collaboration and coordination among participants in a calm, concise, and incredibly logical way.
Conclusion:
This study furthers our understanding of ambulance doctors’ strategies in emergency nursing by analyzing the decision making dilemma in which ambulance doctors communicate with patients’ relatives and other emergency departments.
Practice implications:
Further research could find strength from a larger number of emergency interactions.
Dapagliflozin Improves Skeletal Muscle Insulin Sensitivity through SIRT1 activation Induced by Nutrient Deprivation State
Authors: Gao Qi , Jiang Yingying , Song Zhenqiang , Ren Huizhu , Kong Yan , Wang Cong , Zheng Miaoyan , Shan Chunyan , Yang Yanhui
Published: April 2024

Lipid peroxidation and mitochondrial damage impair insulin sensitivity in skeletal muscle. Sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) protects mitochondria and activates under energy restriction. This study investigates whether dapagliflozin (Dapa) can trigger nutrient deprivation to activate SIRT1 and enhance insulin sensitivity in skeletal muscle. We treated diet-induced obese (DIO) mice with Dapa and measured metabolic parameters, lipid accumulation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial function, and glucose utilization in skeletal muscle. Ketogenesis is the most important feature of the nutrient deprivation state, so β-hydroxybutyric acid (β-HB) administration was used in C2C12 myotubes to verify the effect. The role of SIRT1 was verified by RNA interference. We found that the Dapa-induced nutrient deprivation state was characterized by increased lipolysis, urinary glucose excretion, ketogenesis. What’s more, Dapa treatment reduced lipid deposition and oxidative stress, improved mitochondrial function and glucose tolerance in skeletal muscle. The same positive effects were observed after β-HB intervening for C2C12 myotubes, and the promoting effects on glucose utilization were diminished by SIRT1 RNA interference. Thus, Dapa promotes a nutrient deprivation state and enhances skeletal muscle insulin sensitivity via SIRT1 activation. In this study, we identified a novel hypoglycemic mechanism of Dapa and the potential mechanistic targets.
Use of an intermediate cervical plexus block in carotid endarterectomy –an alternative to deep cervical plexus block: A case series
Authors: Ratnayake Ashani , Abeysundara Anura , Samarasinghe Bandula , Rathnayake Jeewantha , Samarasinghe Senani , Perera Rochana , Bandara Chamoda
Published: April 2024

Background
Carotid endarterectomy is performed for patients with symptomatic carotid artery occlusions. Surgery can be performed under general and regional anesthesia. Regional anesthesia is preferable in patients who are medically complicated to undergo anesthesia or in patients for whom cerebral monitoring is not available. Traditionally, surgery is performed under deep cervical plexus block which is technically difficult to perform and can cause serious complications. This case series describes 5 cases in which an intermediate cervical plexus block was used in combination with a superficial cervical plexus block for Carotid endarterectomy surgery.
Case presentation
Five patients who were classified as American Society of Anesthesiologists 2–3 were scheduled for Carotid endarterectomy due to symptoms and more than 70% occlusion of the carotid arteries. All patients were given superficial cervical plexus block followed by intermediate cervical plexus block using 2% lignocaine and 0.5% plain bupivacaine. Adequate anesthesia was achieved in 4 patients, and local infiltration was necessary in 1 patient. Two patients developed hoarseness of the voice, which settled 2 hours after surgery. Hemodynamic fluctuations were observed in all 5 patients. No serious complications were observed. All 5 patients had uneventful recoveries.
Conclusions
Superficial cervical plexus block and intermediate cervical plexus block can be used effectively for providing anesthesia for patients undergoing Carotid endarterectomy. It is safe and easier to conduct than deep cervical plexus block and enables monitoring of cerebral function.
Analysis of anxiety and pain in patients undergoing immediate sequential bilateral cataract surgery or unilateral cataract surgery
Authors: Hong Suji , Shin Hyemi , Kim Woojin , Kim Dong Hyun , Eom Young-sub , Song Jong Suk
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this study was to compare preoperative anxiety and intraoperative pain between the first and second cataract surgeries in patients who underwent immediate sequential bilateral cataract surgery (ISBCS). This retrospective study was conducted between June 20, 2023, and September 20, 2023, at Korea University Guro Hospital. A total of 170 cataract surgeries was included, and 130 eyes underwent ISBCS. Clinical records, including patients’ intraoperative pain score (visual analog scale [VAS] for pain, 1–10 points) and patients’ preoperative anxiety score (VAS for anxiety (VASA), 1–10 points), were investigated. Also, correlations between clinical factors and pain scores were analyzed. The pain score did not significantly differ between the first and second surgeries in ISBCS patients (2.51 ± 1.16 vs. 2.43 ± 1.36 points) (P = 0.692). However, the anxiety score recorded before the second eye surgery was significantly lower compared to that recorded before the first eye surgery. (3.32 ± 1.68 vs. 2.31 ± 1.29 points) (P < 0.001). Among the clinical factors, only the anxiety score was significantly correlated with the pain score (P = 0.013). We suggest ISBCS may serve as a beneficial strategy for a better surgery experience, reducing patients’ anxiety during surgery.
Causal relationship between serum uric acid and cardiovascular disease: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: zhang yu jun , Lian Qiufang , Nie Yanwu , Zhao Wei
Published: April 2024

Observational studies have established an association between serum uric acid and cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, these studies are susceptible to uncontrolled confounders and reverse causality bias, leading to ambiguity in the causal relationship. To overcome these challenges, our study employed a two-sample Mendelian randomization approach to investigate the causal link between serum uric acid and CVD. The data on serum uric acid and seven cardiovascular diseases are sourced from the IEU Open GWAS database. Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses employed inverse variance weighting (IVW), MR-Egger, weighted median, and weighted model methods. Sensitivity analyses, including Cochrane's Q test, MR-Egger intercept, MR-PRESSO, and the leave-one-out approach, were conducted to assess result reliability. IVW analysis revealed that a genetic predisposition to elevated serum uric acid levels significantly increases the risk of CVD, with higher odds ratios (ORs) observed for CAD (OR: 1.227; 95% CI: 1.107-1.360, P=0.0002), hypertension (OR: 1.318, 95%CI: 1.184-1.466, P=2.13E-06), MI (OR: 1.184, 95%CI: 1.108-1.266, P=2.13E-06), HF (OR: 1.158, 95%CI: 1.066–1.258, P=2.13E-06), AF (OR: 1.298, 95%CI: 1.125-1.497, P=0.0005), angina (OR: 1.150, 95%CI: 1.074-1.231, P=0.0002) and CHD (OR: 1.170, 95%CI: 1.072-1.276, P=0.0005). Sensitivity analyses detected no pleiotropy and heterogeneity (P>0.05). This Mendelian randomization study robustly demonstrates a significant causal relationship between genetically elevated serum uric acid and various cardiovascular diseases, suggesting that higher levels may enhance the risk of cardiovascular events. Consequently, patients with elevated uric acid levels warrant early and aggressive interventions to mitigate cardiovascular risks.