bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coupling of renal sodium and calcium transport: a modeling analysis of transporter inhibition and sex differences
Authors: Hakimi Shervin , Dutta Pritha , Layton Anita T.
Published: August 2023

The kidney plays an important role in the maintenance of whole body Ca2+ balance by regulating Ca2+ reabsorption and excretion. This computational modeling study provides insights into how Ca2+ transport along the nephron is coupled to Na+. Model results indicated that along the proximal tubule and thick ascending limb, Ca2+ and Na+ transport occur in parallel, but those processes were dissociated in the distal convoluted tubule. Simulations also revealed sex-specific responses to different pharmacological manipulations.
New insights into the physiology and pathophysiology of the atypical sodium leak channel NALCN
Authors: Monteil Arnaud , Guérineau Nathalie C. , Gil-Nagel Antonio , Parra-Diaz Paloma , Lory Philippe , Senatore Adriano
Published: August 2023

Cell excitability and its modulation by hormones and neurotransmitters involve the concerted action of a large repertoire of membrane proteins, especially ion channels. Unique complements of coexpressed ion channels are exquisitely balanced against each other in different excitable cell types, establishing distinct electrical properties that are tailored for diverse physiological contributions, and dysfunction of any component may induce a disease state. A crucial parameter controlling cell excitability is the resting membrane potential (RMP) set by extra- and intracellular concentrations of ions, mainly Na+, K+, and Cl−, and their passive permeation across the cell membrane through leak ion channels. Indeed, dysregulation of RMP causes significant effects on cellular excitability. This review describes the molecular and physiological properties of the Na+ leak channel NALCN, which associates with its accessory subunits UNC-79, UNC-80, and NLF-1/FAM155 to conduct depolarizing background Na+ currents in various excitable cell types, especially neurons. Studies of animal models clearly demonstrate that NALCN contributes to fundamental physiological processes in the nervous system including the control of respiratory rhythm, circadian rhythm, sleep, and locomotor behavior. Furthermore, dysfunction of NALCN and its subunits is associated with severe pathological states in humans. The critical involvement of NALCN in physiology is now well established, but its study has been hampered by the lack of specific drugs that can block or agonize NALCN currents in vitro and in vivo. Molecular tools and animal models are now available to accelerate our understanding of how NALCN contributes to key physiological functions and the development of novel therapies for NALCN channelopathies.
Structural Characterization and Immunomodulatory Activity of Polysaccharides from Polygonatum sibiricum Prepared with Deep Eutectic Solvents
Authors: Meng Jikun , Guan Chunbo , Chen Qiufeng , Pang Xiao , Wang Heqin , Cui Xinwen , Ye Ran , Zhang Xiuqing
Published: August 2023

Deep eutectic solvents (DES), as a new, efficient, and green solvents, have attracted more attention in recent years. This study was performed to extract Polygonatum sibiricum polysaccharides using DES (DPSP). Subsequently, DPSP was subjected to DEAE-Sepharose Fast Flow and Sephadex G-100 column for further purification (DPSP-3). Structural characterization and immunomodulatory activity in RAW264.7 cells were performed. Results showed that the yield of DPSP was (15.62 ± 0.71)%, and its yield was 1.53 times that of the polysaccharides extracted using the pharmacopoeia method (PSP). DPSP-3 had a smaller molecular weight (3.2 × 106 Da) and a higher ratio of galactose (65.75%) and mannose (19.76%) as compared to PSP. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) showed that DPSP-3 had curly shape, lamellar surface, and a few spherical edges, which were significantly different from PSP and DPSP. Both PSP and DPSP-3 could significantly improve phagotrophic capacity and increase the release of ROS, NO, IL-6, and TNF-α in RAW 264.7 cells, and DPSP-3 had better immunomodulatory activity. In summary, compared to the pharmacopoeia method, polysaccharides prepared using the DES extraction method showed higher yield and improved immunomodulatory activity.
Nurses’ Perceptions on How Recovery-Oriented Mental Health Care Can Be Developed and Implemented
Authors: Kealeboga Kebope Mongie , Manyedi Mofatiki Eva , Moloko-Phiri Salaminah
Published: August 2023

Aim. This study explored how nurses working in inpatient mental health units perceived the development and implementation of a recovery-oriented mental healthcare programme (ROMHCP). Background. The recovery-oriented mental healthcare approach (ROMHCA) in mental health is regarded as the future of mental health services and has been implemented in different countries worldwide. However, regarding developing and implementing the recovery approach, Africa appears to have been left behind by the rest of the continents. Design. The study used a qualitative approach to describe how a recovery-oriented mental healthcare approach could be developed. Methods. Thirty nurses who worked in Botswana’s four inpatient mental health facilities consented and voluntarily participated in the study. Data were collected from February to mid-March 2022 through online focus group discussions and analysed using thematic analysis. The COREQ checklist was used to report the findings. Results. Two main themes emerged as follows: (i) developing and implementing a recovery-oriented mental healthcare programme is possible and (ii) certain elements are required to develop and implement ROMHCP. Conclusion. The participants believed that people diagnosed with mental illness could recover from the illness and suggested how it could be achieved. They also contended that the programme’s success would lie mainly with multisectoral support from policymakers, facilities, hospital personnel, patients, and the community. Clinical Relevance. ROMHCP has the potential to benefit people with mental illness in the country. In addition, it would allow nurses to improve their knowledge and skills in managing mental illnesses. Patient or Public Contribution. The patients and the general public did not contribute to the study’s concept, design, and outcomes. However, the nurses working in mental health facilities volunteered to participate in the study.
Assessment of Financial Literacy and Its Impact on Investor’s Decisions in Saudi Arabia: A Study in the Context of Enabling Financial Planning to Strengthen Economic Development
Authors: Johri Amar , Islam Misbah Ul , Kamal Mustafa
Published: August 2023

The significance of financial literacy is increasing faster in today’s world. Financial literacy provides individuals with necessary and adequate financial knowledge and makes them professionally aware of managing their finances. It plays a vital role in the economic development of an economy. The study examines the impact of financial literacy on investors’ financial decisions, financial planning, selection of financial products, and financial literacy awareness program and its influence on investors’ investment decisions. In order to obtain information from the respondents, we employed a questionnaire that was both structured and self-administered. The investigation analyzes the survey responses from 360 respondents in Saudi Arabia. Various statistical methods such as descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, analysis of reliability, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and regression analysis were utilized to evaluate the data obtained. The results obtained in the study indicated that financial literacy has a significant impact on investors’ financial decisions, financial planning, and the selection of financial products that influence investors’ investment decisions. The research also found that financial literacy is affected by financial literacy awareness programs, which have a favorable influence on the investment decisions made by investors. The study’s findings will help prospective investors understand the importance of raising financial knowledge for their future financial goals.
RYZ101 (Ac-225 DOTATATE) Opportunity beyond Gastroenteropancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors: Preclinical Efficacy in Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Han Guangzhou , Hwang Eunmi , Lin Fanching , Clift Renee , Kim Daniel , Guest Matt , Bischoff Eric , Moran Susan , Li Gary
Published: August 2023

Overexpression of somatostatin receptors (SSTR), particularly SSTR2, is found in gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NET), and subsets of other solid tumors such as small-cell lung cancer (SCLC). SCLC accounts for approximately 13% to 15% of lung cancer and lacks effective therapeutic options. IHC analysis indicates that up to 50% of SCLC tumors are SSTR2-positive, with a substantial subset showing high and homogenous expression. Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy with radiolabeled somatostatin analogue, Lu-177 DOTATATE, has been approved for GEP-NETs. Different strategies aimed at improving outcomes, such as the use of alpha-emitting radioisotopes, are currently being investigated. RYZ101 (Ac-225 DOTATATE) is comprised of the alpha-emitting radioisotope actinium-225, chemical chelator DOTA, and octreotate (TATE), a somatostatin analogue. In the cell-based competitive radioligand binding assay, RAYZ-10001-La (lanthanum surrogate for RYZ101) showed high binding affinity (Ki = 0.057 nmol/L) to human SSTR2 and >600-fold selectivity against other SSTR subtypes. RAYZ-10001-La exhibited efficient internalization to SSTR2-positive cells. In multiple SSTR2-expressing SCLC xenograft models, single-dose intravenous RYZ101 3 μCi (0.111 MBq) or 4 μCi (0.148 MBq) significantly inhibited tumor growth, with deeper responses, including sustained regression, observed in the models with higher SSTR2 levels. The antitumor effect was further enhanced when RYZ101 was combined with carboplatin and etoposide at clinically relevant doses. In summary, RYZ101 is a highly potent, alpha-emitting radiopharmaceutical agent, and preclinical data demonstrate the potential of RYZ101 for the treatment of patients with SSTR-positive cancers.
The World Health Organization Legal Regimes and the Shaping of Nigeria’s Health Law and Policy
Authors: Anaemene Benjamin , Iwuh John
Published: August 2023

Global health governance concerns the collective responses needed within the public health community to effectively tackle the shared challenges arising in an increasingly connected world. It is a truism that promoting a robust health infrastructure is critical to the attainment of good health and wellbeing. Yet the legal infrastructure – the laws and policies that empower and obligate as well as limit government and private action concerning health, has been neglected in the mainstream literature. This is because health infrastructure has focused more on physical structures of public health agencies such as clinics, hospitals and the human resources that operate them. The purpose of the study was to explore the extent to which the World Health Organization legal regimes such as the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (2003) and the Revised International Health Regulations, have impacted on health law and policy in Nigeria. It posits that the various conventions and regulations adopted, which were subsequently ratified and declared applicable to Nigeria, had been domesticated. However, the lack of respect for the rule of law has stymied the maximisation of the expected benefits from such legal regimes. It concludes that the World Health Organization should develop a programme for public health law capacity-building and policy surveillance to ensure continuous and organised efforts to assist member states including Nigeria to strengthen their legal infrastructure.
Cartas de Gottfried W. Leibniz a Pe. des Bosses 1-3
Authors: Silveira Beatriz Cardoso , Kontic Sacha Zilber , Lacerda Tessa Moura
Published: August 2023

Tradução das três primeiras cartas de Leibniz a des Bosses.
Relação dos trabalhos de Marilena Chaui sobre Espinosa (1970-2021)
Authors: Santiago Homero
Published: August 2023

Apresentamos uma bibliografia dos trabalhos da filósofa brasileira Marilena Chaui dedicados ao espinosismo e publicados entre 1970 e 2021.
Comunidad y Comunicación: un encuentro posible entre Peirce y Spinoza
Authors: Rodríguez Amieva José Manuel
Published: August 2023

Frente a la acepción de la comunidad que la considera una esencia dada, masificada y homogénea, en este artículo buscamos reconstruir otra concepción de la comunidad que la entiende como una producción recursiva mediante un proceso de comunicación en distintos registros entre sus integrantes. Una comunicación que a la vez que construye la composición humana preserva la potencia singular de cada cuerpo componente. Con este fin, recuperamos la noción spinozista de la comunidad como un individuo compuesto por el mecanismo de la imitatio affectuum y procesos de convenir, consensuar y concordar. Retomamos, asimismo, en interconexión, los planteos peirceanos sobre la comunidad entablada en procura de un crecimiento indefinido del conocimiento, mediante la cooperación y comunicación de todos sus miembros. Veremos, a fin de cuentas, que tanto la existencia individual como la realidad social requieren por precondición y principio activo, un proceso iterativo de comunicación, un «hacer comunidad» asiduamente renovado.
A existência real só pode ser provada pela existência real? A crítica de Locke contra a prova a priori cartesiana
Authors: Silva Leandro Alves da
Published: August 2023

No Ensaio sobre o Entendimento Humano (iv.x.7), John Locke registrou uma breve apreciação da prova a priori cartesiana, afirmando que ela seria, isoladamente, uma maneira imperfeita de abordar a questão da existência de Deus. Todavia, num manuscrito de duas páginas, datado de 1696, ele considerou essa prova inconclusiva, pois poderia ser utilizada tanto por teístas como por ateus, ficando a questão inacabada. Considerando a escassez de estudos lockeanos tratando desse manuscrito, este artigo propõe uma interpretação da crítica lockeana à prova a priori cartesiana, de modo a verificar se o filósofo inglês modificou sua opinião. A análise do texto em questão aponta que não houve mudança significativa por parte de Locke, pois suas conclusões registradas no manuscrito têm como fundamento a rejeição das ideias inatas e das essências imutáveis, em conformidade com o livro i do Ensaio. Adicionalmente, suas críticas têm um provável antecedente tomista nas objeções de Johannes Caterus.
Research and Clinical Approaches to Assess Platelet Function in Flowing Blood
Authors: Hearn James I. , Gardiner Elizabeth E.
Published: August 2023

Platelet adhesion and activation is fundamental to the formation of a hemostatic response to limit loss of blood and instigate wound repair to seal a site of vascular injury. The process of platelet aggregate formation is supported by the coagulation system driving injury-proximal formation of thrombin, which converts fibrinogen to insoluble fibrin. This highly coordinated series of molecular and membranous events must be routinely achieved in flowing blood, at vascular fluid shear rates that place significant strain on molecular and cellular interactions. Platelets have long been recognized to be able to slow down and adhere to sites of vascular injury and then activate and recruit more platelets that forge and strengthen adhesive ties with the vascular wall under these conditions. It has been a major challenge for the Platelet Research Community to construct experimental conditions that allow precise definition of the molecular steps occurring under flow. This brief review will discuss work to date from our group, as well as others that has furthered our understanding of platelet function in flowing blood.
Morphological and molecular evidence reveals a new species of Anteaeolidiella (Mollusca, Nudibranchia, Aeolidiidae) from the Yellow Sea, China
Authors: ZHANG SHUQIAN , ZHANG SUPING
Published: August 2023

During an investigation of nudibranch gastropods in the Yellow Sea, several specimens were collected from the intertidal zone of Qingdao, Shandong Province, China. Morphological observation of their external and internal anatomy revealed that they represent an undescribed species belonging to the genus Anteaeolidiella M. C. Miller, 2001. This new species, Anteaeolidiella decorus sp. nov., can be differentiated from other congeners by both external morphology and internal anatomy. Phylogenetic analyses of two mitochondrial (COI, 16S rRNA) and a nuclear (H3) gene using Bayesian inference, maximum likelihood analysis, and species delimitation analyses also support the separation of Anteaeolidiella decorus sp. nov. from its congeners.
Effects of Prior Knowledge and Peer Assessment on the Quality of English as a Foreign Language Poetry Writing
Authors: Xue Shuwei , Son Ye Jun , Yang Lianrui , Chen Shifa
Published: August 2023

Poetry, being a distinct literary art form, fosters meaningful literacy, but few studies focus on enhancing its writing quality. Using a 2 × 2 between-subject design, this study explored the effects of prior knowledge and peer assessment on the quality of English as a foreign language poetry writing. A total of 81 English majors participated in a 7-week online poetry writing task, generating 567 poems on seven themes. Literary experts evaluated the poems across seven aspects. Results revealed that peer assessment enhanced general writing quality, specifically for participants with high prior knowledge. Prior knowledge negatively influenced personal voice and organization, with the low prior knowledge group showing a stronger focus on personal expressions and the flow of the poem. Peer assessment positively influenced the use of poetry schemes, with the assessed group demonstrating better utilization compared to the non-assessed group. The findings guide teaching poetic knowledge, encourage communication among students, and ultimately improve the quality of L2 poetry writing.
Crystal chemistry of zemannite-type structures: IV. Wortupaite, the first new tellurium oxysalt mineral described from an Australian locality
Authors: Missen Owen P. , Mills Stuart J. , Brugger Joël , Birch William D. , Elliott Peter
Published: August 2023

Wortupaite (IMA2022–107) is a new hydrated magnesium nickel tellurite mineral with a zemannite-like structure, described from the Wortupa gold mine, South Australia, Australia. Wortupaite forms needles up to 25 μm in length, generally clustered and sometimes in blocky masses of shorter (10‒15 μm) crystals. Wortupaite is found growing on melonite, from which the component nickel and tellurium are derived, and is associated with calcite. The strongest powder diffraction lines are [dobsÅ(Iobs)(hkl)]: 8.059 (93) (100), 4.034 (92) (200), 2.832 (43) (211 and 121), 2.769 (100) (202) and 1.920 (45) (213 and 123). The empirical formula of wortupaite as determined by electron probe microanalysis is (Mg0.57Ni0.39Mn0.04)Σ1(Ni2+1.87Fe3+0.13)Σ2(Te4+O3)3⋅3H2O, simplified to the ideal formula of MgNi2+2(Te4+O3)3⋅3H2O with H2O content calculated from the crystal structure. The average crystal structure of wortupaite was determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction with synchrotron radiation (R1 = 0.0558 for 100 independent reflections). Wortupaite is hexagonal, crystallising in the space group P63/m, with a = 9.2215(13) Å, c = 7.5150(15) Å, V = 553.43(19) Å3 and Z = 2. Wortupaite has a microporous structure, with the negatively charged zemannite-like framework formed by Te4+O3 trigonal pyramids and Ni2+O6 octahedra. For charge balance, Mg2+ and Ni2+ dominant sites are assumed to be located on central sites in the channels, coordinated by 6 H2O groups. An OW site was refined around the Mg2+ dominant site, but OW position(s) were not locatable around the Ni2+ dominant site. A discussion of the different models for crystallographic arrangement of channel species is provided, taking into account possible Fourier truncation effects. Unlike the other four minerals with zemannite-like structures which have a near 50% split of divalent and trivalent framework cations, wortupaite is the first natural phase to have only divalent cations in the framework sites.
Adiponectin receptor 1-mediated stimulation of Cav3.2 channels in trigeminal ganglion neurons induces nociceptive behaviors in mice
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Wei Yuan , Zheng Tingting , Tao Yu , Sun Yufang , Jiang Dongsheng , Tao Jin
Published: August 2023

Background

Adipokines, including adiponectin, are implicated in nociceptive pain; however, the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms remain unknown.

Methods

Using electrophysiological recording, immunostaining, molecular biological approaches and animal behaviour tests, we elucidated a pivotal role of adiponectin in regulating membrane excitability and pain sensitivity by manipulating Cav3.2 channels in trigeminal ganglion (TG) neurons.

Results

Adiponectin enhanced T-type Ca2+ channel currents (IT) in TG neurons through the activation of adiponectin receptor 1 (adipoR1) but independently of heterotrimeric G protein-mediated signaling. Coimmunoprecipitation revealed a physical association between AdipoR1 and casein kinase II alpha-subunits (CK2α) in the TG, and inhibiting CK2 activity by chemical inhibitor or siRNA targeting CK2α prevented the adiponectin-induced IT response. Adiponectin significantly activated protein kinase C (PKC), and this effect was abrogated by CK2α knockdown. Adiponectin increased the membrane abundance of PKC beta1 (PKCβ1). Blocking PKCβ1 pharmacologically or genetically abrogated the adiponectin-induced IT increase. In heterologous expression systems, activation of adipoR1 induced a selective enhancement of Cav3.2 channel currents, dependent on PKCβ1 signaling. Functionally, adiponectin increased TG neuronal excitability and induced mechanical pain hypersensitivity, both attenuated by T-type channel blockade. In a trigeminal neuralgia model induced by chronic constriction injury of infraorbital nerve, blockade of adipoR1 signaling suppressed mechanical allodynia, which was prevented by silencing Cav3.2.

Conclusion

Our study elucidates a novel signaling cascade wherein adiponectin stimulates TG Cav3.2 channels via adipoR1 coupled to a novel CK2α-dependent PKCβ1. This process induces neuronal hyperexcitability and pain hypersensitivity. Insight into adipoR-Cav3.2 signaling in sensory neurons provides attractive targets for pain treatment.
Lightning can strike twice: recurrent multiple evanescent white dot syndrome (MEWDS) following both COVID-19 vaccination and subsequent COVID-19 infection
Authors: Ng Hannah W. , Niederer Rachael L.
Published: August 2023

Multiple evanescent white dot syndrome has been reported to occur following COVID-19 vaccination and also secondary to COVID-19 infection. Increasingly, patients are querying their risk from further vaccination against COVID-19, vaccination for other diseases (such as influenza) and the risk of disease with COVID-19 infection itself. Here we report an interesting case in which the patient developed MEWDS following COVID vaccination, then, one year later, developed MEWDS in the fellow eye associated with COVID-19 infection.
A multilevel and multicenter assessment of health care system capacity to manage cardiovascular diseases in Africa: a baseline study of the Ghana Heart Initiative
Authors: Doku Alfred , Tuglo Lawrence Sena , Chilunga Felix , Edzeame Juliette , Peters Ron J.G. , Agyemang Charles
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) remain the leading cause of death worldwide, with over 70% of these deaths occurring in low- and middle-income regions such as Africa. However, most countries in Africa do not have the capacity to manage CVD. The Ghana Heart Initiative has been an ongoing national program since 2018, aimed at improving CVD care and thus reducing the death rates of these diseases in Ghana. This study therefore aimed at assessing the impact of this initiative by identifying, at baseline, the gaps in the management of CVDs within the health system to develop robust measures to bolster CVD management and care in Ghana.

Methods

This study employed a cross-sectional study design and was conducted from November 2019 to March 2020 in 44 health facilities in the Greater Accra region. The assessment covered CVD management, equipment availability, knowledge of health workers in CVD and others including the CVD management support system, availability of CVD management guidelines and CVD/NCD indicators in the District Health Information Management System (DHIMS2).

Results

The baseline data showed a total of 85,612 outpatient attendants over the period in the study facilities, 70% were women and 364(0.4%) were newly diagnosed with hypertension. A total of 83% of the newly diagnosed hypertensives were put on treatment, 56.3% (171) continued treatment during the study period and less than 10% (5%) had their blood pressure controlled at the end of the study (in March 2020). Other gaps identified included suboptimal health worker knowledge in CVD management (mean score of 69.0 ± 13.0, p < 0.05), lack of equipment for prompt CVD emergency diagnosis, poor management and monitoring of CVD care across all levels of health care, lack of standardized protocol on CVD management, and limited number of indicators on CVD in the National Database (i.e., DHIMS2) for CVD monitoring.

Conclusion

This study shows that there are gaps in CVD care and therefore, there is a need to address such gaps to improve the capacity of the health system to effectively manage CVDs in Ghana.
The impact of maternal morbidity on cesarean section rates: exploring a Latin American network of sentinel facilities using the Robson’s Ten Group Classification System
Authors: Sosa Claudio , de Mucio Bremen , Colomar Mercedes , Mainero Luis , Costa Maria L. , Guida Jose P. , Souza Renato T. , Luz Adriana G. , Cecatti José G. , Sousa Maria H. , Cruz Carmen M. , Chevez Luz M. , Lopez Rita , Carrillo Gema , Rizo Ulises , Saint Hillaire Erika E. , Arriaga William E. , Guadalupe Rosa M. , Ochoa Carlos , Gonzalez Freddy , Castro Rigoberto , Stefan Allan , Moreno Amanda , Serruya Suzanne J.
Published: August 2023

Background

Latin America has the highest Cesarean Section Rates (CSR) in the world. Robson’s Ten Group Classification System (RTGCS) was developed to enable understanding the CSR in different groups of women, classified according to obstetric characteristics into one of ten groups. The size of each CS group may provide helpful data on quality of care in a determined region or setting. Data can potentially be used to compare the impact of conditions such as maternal morbidity on CSR. The objective of this study is to understand the impact of Severe Maternal Morbidity (SMM) on CSR in ten different groups of RTGCS.

Methods

Secondary analysis of childbirth information from 2018 to 2021, including 8 health facilities from 5 Latin American and Caribbean countries (Bolivia, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and the Dominican Republic), using a surveillance database (SIP-Perinatal Information System, in Spanish) implemented in different settings across Latin America. Women were classified into one of RTGCS. The frequency of each group and its respective CSR were described. Furthermore, the sample was divided into two groups, according to maternal outcomes: women without SMM and those who experienced SMM, considering Potentially Life-threatening Conditions, Maternal Near Miss and Maternal Death as the continuum of morbidity.

Results

Available data were obtained from 92,688 deliveries using the Robson Classification. Overall CSR was around 38%. Group 5 was responsible for almost one-third of cesarean sections. SMM occurred in 6.7% of cases. Among these cases, the overall CSR was almost 70% in this group. Group 10 had a major role (preterm deliveries). Group 5 (previous Cesarean section) had a very high CSR within the group, regardless of the occurrence of maternal morbidity (over 80%).

Conclusion

Cesarean section rate was higher in women experiencing SMM than in those without SMM in Latin America. SMM was associated with higher Cesarean section rates, especially in groups 1 and 3. Nevertheless, group 5 was the major contributor to the overall CSR.
The correlation of two bone turnover markers with bone mineral density: a population-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Wang Gao-Xiang , Li Jun-Tong , Cai Fang-ying , Huang Bao-Li , Fang Ze-Bin , Zhao Heng-Xia , Chu Shu-Fang , Liu De-Liang , Li Hui-Lin
Published: August 2023

Objective

Exploring the correlation between bone turnover marks (BTMs) with lumbar BMD in middle-aged populations.

Methods

The cross-sectional analysis fetched data came from NHANES. The level of serum bone alkaline phosphatase (sBAP) and urinary N-telopeptide (uNTx) were regarded as representative of bone turnover. Lumbar BMD was the outcome of the study. Multivariable linear regression models were utilized to detect the correlation of sBAP and uNTx with Lumbar BMD.

Results

The level of sBAP and uNTx was negatively correlated with lumbar BMD in every multivariable linear regression. For sBAP, this inverse correlation was stable in both men and women (P < 0.01). uNTx indicated a negative association after all relevant covariables were adjusted (P < 0.01). The men group remained the negative correlation in gender subgroup analysis (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

This study indicated that the increased level of sBAP and uNTx associated with lumbar BMD decreased among middle-aged adults. This correlation could prompt researchers to explore further the relationship between bone turnover rate and BMD, which may provide information for the early detection of BMD loss and provide a new strategy for clinical practice.
Composite hemangioendothelioma- report of two cases located in bone and review of the literature
Authors: Deng Yunyang , Li Mei
Published: August 2023

Background

Composite hemangioendothelioma (CHE) is a rare intermediate-grade vascular tumor characterized by a complex histologic component. It occasionally metastasizes, but local recurrence is not uncommon. CHE is mainly located in the extremities’ distal dermis and subcutaneous soft tissues. It is rarely located in the bone. We report here two cases originally occurred in bone.

Case presentation

The first case of CHE occurred solely on the left pubis. The second case is a patient post-resection of CHE in the manubrium sterni 10 years ago [1], who presented with multiple lesions in the left ilium and T6, T12 vertebra. All these lesions in the two cases showed osteolytic bone destruction on computed tomography (CT) scans and showed relatively high signal intensity on the fat-suppressed sequences of T2-weighted magnetic resonance (MR) images and isointense signal intensity on T1-weighted MR images. After injection of contrast agent (Gd-DTPA), the lesions showed inhomogeneous enhancement. 2-deoxy-2 [F-18] fluoro-D-glucose positron emission tomography-computed tomography (18FDG PET-CT) showed increased FDG uptake in these osteolytic bone destruction areas with SUVmax around 5.0. Both patients underwent surgery. Lesions in the left pubis and left ilium were confirmed by postoperative pathology while lesions on the vertebrae were only biopsied, not surgically resected. The first patient had no recurrence or metastasis in 5 years after surgery. The second patient had surgery recently and is still being followed up.

Conclusions

CHE occurring in bone is rarely reported. Our report provides more detailed information on the diagnosis of CHE. Given that CHE is locally aggressive and occasionally metastatic, PET-CT may be helpful in staging and follow-up.
Complementary and alternative medicine use by pregnant women in Japan: a pilot survey
Authors: Watanabe Ayana , Inoue Satomi , Okatsu Aiko , Eto Hiromi , Oguro Michiko , Kataoka Yaeko
Published: August 2023

Background

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) are popular among women, and are used during their pregnancy in Japan. This study aimed to survey the prevalence of CAM use by healthy pregnant women as a health-care prescribed therapy or self-care and to investigate the factors associated with CAM use in Japan.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, pregnant women after 34 weeks of gestation were asked to respond to a questionnaire at the clinic or online. The questionnaire comprised questions on the participants’ characteristics and their use of CAM for therapy and self-care. Descriptive statistics were calculated in the analyses, and bivariate and multivariate logistic analyses were performed to evaluate the associations between factors and CAM use.

Results

A total of 394 women responded from three hospitals, two clinics, and two midwifery birth centers. CAM was received as treatment by practitioners during pregnancy by 75 women (19.0%). The following therapies were used: traditional Chinese medicine (7.9%), chiropractic (6.9%), moxibustion (6.4%), and acupuncture (5.3%). One or more types of therapy were used as self-care by 348 women (88.3%). Highly used CAM for self-care were: folic acid supplementation (75.4%), other supplements (51.5%), herbs (20.8%), and yoga (19.0%). Multiple logistic regression analyses revealed that the factors associated with CAM use as a therapy were midwifery birth centers for planned childbirth settings (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 3.64, 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.69–7.83]) and pregnancy complications diagnosed (AOR 2.46, 95%CI [1.38–4.39]). The factors associated with CAM use for self-care were age 30–39 years (AOR 4.48, 95%CI [2.14–9.73]) and over 40 years (AOR 3.92, 95%CI [1.10–13.91]), junior college education or above (AOR 2.30, 95%CI [1.18–4.51]), and primiparas (AOR 3.82, 95%CI [1.86–7.86]). The most common source of information was the “Internet” (43.8%).

Conclusions

Approximately 20% of Japanese pregnant women received CAM as therapy by practitioners, and the related factors were: tended to have baby at midwifery birth center and pregnancy complications. Almost 90% of respondents used CAM as self-care and the related factors were: older, had a higher educational level and tended to be primiparas. They used the Internet as their main source of information about CAM. Health care providers need to provide evidenced-based information on CAM and to help decision making to ensure safe and effective CAM utilization by pregnant women.
Advances in nanomedicines for lymphatic imaging and therapy
Authors: He Pan , Tang Haitian , Zheng Yating , Xiong Yongfu , Cheng Hongwei , Li Jingdong , Zhang Yang , Liu Gang
Published: August 2023

Lymph nodes play a pivotal role in tumor progression as key components of the lymphatic system. However, the unique physiological structure of lymph nodes has traditionally constrained the drug delivery efficiency. Excitingly, nanomedicines have shown tremendous advantages in lymph node-specific delivery, enabling distinct recognition and diagnosis of lymph nodes, and hence laying the foundation for efficient tumor therapies. In this review, we comprehensively discuss the key factors affecting the specific enrichment of nanomedicines in lymph nodes, and systematically summarize nanomedicines for precise lymph node drug delivery and therapeutic application, including the lymphatic diagnosis and treatment nanodrugs and lymph node specific imaging and identification system. Notably, we delve into the critical challenges and considerations currently facing lymphatic nanomedicines, and futher propose effective strategies to address these issues. This review encapsulates recent findings, clinical applications, and future prospects for designing effective nanocarriers for lymphatic system targeting, with potential implications for improving cancer treatment strategies.
Calcineurin stimulation by Cnb1p overproduction mitigates protein aggregation and α-synuclein toxicity in a yeast model of synucleinopathy
Authors: Chawla Srishti , Ahmadpour Doryaneh , Schneider Kara L. , Kumar Navinder , Fischbach Arthur , Molin Mikael , Nystrom Thomas
Published: August 2023

The calcium-responsive phosphatase, calcineurin, senses changes in Ca2+concentrations in a calmodulin-dependent manner. Here we report that under non-stress conditions, inactivation of calcineurin signaling or deleting the calcineurin-dependent transcription factorCRZ1triggered the formation of chaperone Hsp100p (Hsp104p)-associated protein aggregates inSaccharomyces cerevisiae. Furthermore, calcineurin inactivation aggravated α-Synuclein-related cytotoxicity. Conversely, elevated production of the calcineurin activator, Cnb1p, suppressed protein aggregation and cytotoxicity associated with the familial Parkinson’s disease-related mutant α-Synuclein A53T in a partlyCRZ1-dependent manner. Activation of calcineurin boosted normal localization of both wild type and mutant α-synuclein to the plasma membrane, an intervention previously shown to mitigate α-synuclein toxicity in Parkinson’s disease models. The findings demonstrate that calcineurin signaling, and Ca2+influx to the vacuole, limit protein quality control in non-stressed cells and may have implications for elucidating to which extent aberrant calcineurin signaling contributes to the progression of Parkinson’s disease(s) and other synucleinopathies.
Identification and characterization of a polyomavirus in the thornback skate (Raja clavata)
Authors: Abrantes Joana , Varsani Arvind , Pereira Paulo , Maia Catarina , Farias Inês , Veríssimo Ana , Neves Fabiana
Published: August 2023

Members of the family Polyomaviridae have a circular double-stranded DNA genome that have been identified in various hosts ranging from mammals to arachnids. Here we report the identification and analysis of a complete genome sequence of a novel polyomavirus, Raja clavata polyomavirus (RcPyV1), from a cartilaginous fish, the thornback skate (Raja clavata). The genome sequence was determined using a metagenomics approach with an aim to provide baseline viral data in cartilaginous fish in different ecosystems. The RcPyV1 genome (4,195 nucleotides) had typical organization of polyomavirus, including early antigens (small T; Large T) encoded on one strand and late viral proteins (VP1; VP2) on the complementary strand. Maximum-likelihood phylogenetic analysis of the large T-antigen revealed that RcPyV1 clusters with a polyomavirus obtained from another cartilaginous fish, the guitarfish polyomavirus 1 (GfPyV1). These two share ~ 56% pairwise identity in LT and VP1 protein sequences. These analyses support the hypothesis that cartilaginous fishes have a specific lineage of polyomaviruses.
Soil bacterial community composition is more stable in kiwifruit orchards relative to phyllosphere communities over time
Authors: Louisson Ziva , Ranjard Louis , Buckley Hannah L. , Case Bradley S. , Lear Gavin
Published: August 2023

Background

Soil and phyllosphere (leaves and fruit) microbes play critical roles in the productivity and health of crops. However, microbial community dynamics are currently understudied in orchards, with a limited number incorporating temporal monitoring. We used 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing to investigate bacterial community temporal dynamics and community assembly processes on the leaves and fruit, and in the soil of 12 kiwifruit orchards across a cropping season in New Zealand.

Results

Community composition significantly differed (P < 0.001) among the three sample types. However, the communities in the phyllosphere substrates more closely resembled each other, relative to the communities in the soil. There was more temporal stability in the soil bacterial community composition, relative to the communities residing on the leaves and fruit, and low similarity between the belowground and aboveground communities. Bacteria in the soil were more influenced by deterministic processes, while stochastic processes were more important for community assembly in the phyllosphere.

Conclusions

The higher temporal variability and the stochastic nature of the community assembly processes observed in the phyllosphere communities highlights why predicting the responsiveness of phyllosphere communities to environmental change, or the likelihood of pathogen invasion, can be challenging. The relative temporal stability and the influence of deterministic selection on soil microbial communities suggests a greater potential for their prediction and reliable manipulation.
Sustainable approaches for the synthesis of biogenic platinum nanoparticles
Authors: Malode Ulka , Patil Yamini S. , Selokar Yajurved Narhari , Yadav Pratima R. , Bhagat Rupali Patil , Nikose Vibha M. , Thakare Rakesh U. , Nimbarte Seema
Published: August 2023

Background

The era of nanotechnology become widespread for research and human resource development due to its functionalized tuning with economical, eco-friendly, effective and sustainable end-products. Hence, the present review illustrates the biogenic fabrication of platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs) through the different sustainable and cheaper approaches.

Main body of the abstract

Over the physicochemical-based nanotechnology, the biogenic active substances-based synthesis displayed the more promising candidature due to its non-toxic, Broad-spectrum applicability and defendable type character. The biogenic synthesis method is capable with and without capping and highly motif of reducing agents. The morphology and stability of synthesized PtNPs are mostly mediated by various experimental conditions such as pH, temperature, incubation time, concentrations of biomaterials and salts or enzymes used. Hence, the review is aiming to discuss the methodology of biogenic synthesis of PtNPs by plant stem, root, leaf, flower, fruit, extracts, algae, fungi and egg yolk. Also, we have illustrated the pharmaceutical drug model application and its adverse effect.

Short conclusion

Synthesized PtNPs are open a new trend in catalyst, drug and its carrier and in cancer treatment. PtNPs are utilized as a new therapeutic agent for inhibiting the microbial pathogens with non-toxic behavior. The characterization of PtNPs could estimate the bio-sensitized properties which leads the commercial applications.
Relationships Among Health Insurance Literacy, Financial Toxicity, and Sociodemographic Factors in Patients With Cancer
Authors: Lee Minji K. , Durani Urshila , Zhang Nan , Hilal Talal , Warsame Rahma M. , Borah Bijan , Khera Nandita , Griffin Joan M.
Published: August 2023

Health insurance literacy (HIL) constructs are related to financial toxicity in patients with cancer.
Everybody's Maybes: Reproducing Feminism's Bad Objects
Authors: Nash Jennifer C. , Pinto Samantha
Published: August 2023

In this introduction, we reconsider how we can tell the stories of Black feminist thought and institutional feminist study through uncertainty and incommensurability rather than clear reproducibility of good and bad objects. We then consider the speculative place of reproductive history, metaphor, and technology vis-à-vis intersectionality as a foundational object of worry for and in feminist thought. Taking seriously the sustained focus on white women and white feminism as the quintessential bad objects and actors in the present of US feminism, we engage how the reproductive in Black feminism has been both an occluding and elucidating genre to refract Black women as subjects of a “white” field of feminism and the academy at large. We pay particular attention to the social reproduction of race in analyses of gestation, birth, and motherhood and the opportunities these sites represent for disorienting intersectional analysis rather than shoring up its contours. By challenging feminism's critical attachments to self-evidently ethical objects, this introduction, and this issue, offer a way forward in feminist study that imagines uncertainty as a core method and value of feminist inquiry.
Doing Laundry with the TERF
Authors: Owens Emily
Published: August 2023

TERF, or trans-exclusionary radical feminist, is a contemporary configuration that has gained traction in this feminist political moment to encapsulate an imagined set of generational tensions among feminists and queers with respect to gender's essential and/or expansive possibilities. It is also loaded with negative affect. This essay traces the ways that TERF travels in feminist dialogue—often alongside “lesbian”—and argues that loud disavowals of TERFs accumulate into discursive routines that present as anti-anti-trans, but (and) primarily function to preserve a sense of the threatened status of lesbians.
Viabilizando a estratégia de crédito mercantil no agronegócio
Authors: Franco Goulart Daniel
Published: August 2023

A despeito das operações de curto prazo, vendas via crédito mercantil de longo prazo são incomuns no agronegócio. Em um movimento inovador, a GSC passou a oferecer aos produtores rurais prazo de cinco anos para o pagamento pelos seus produtos. A solução foi bem-sucedida, alavancando as vendas da companhia em 2021. Contudo, a deterioração do ciclo de conversão de caixa observado em 2021 ameaça a continuidade da estratégia. O objetivo deste caso é discutir como as estruturas de supply chain finance podem auxiliar as empresas com esse problema. Trata-se de um caso fictício baseado na experiência gerencial do autor.
Market fit e decisões empreendedoras em uma cidade desigual
Authors: De Queiroz Adylson , Vinicius Doria Calvosa Marcello
Published: August 2023

O presente caso de ensino representa a realidade de uma pequena empresa. O objetivo é integrar dificuldades reais de um negócio, estatísticas do setor e fatores como: mudanças culturais, ambientais, demográficas, econômicas e sociais vivenciadas às teorias de marketing usadas em sala de aula para estudantes de Administração e áreas afins, de graduação ou pós-graduação. O empreendimento, embora longevo, apresenta dificuldades em: (i) identificar sua segmentação de mercado; (ii) compreender o momento adequado para uma filial e (iii) buscar e usufruir do market fit. A contribuição do caso será o debate levado à sala de aula, e discussão dos caminhos propostos pelos estudantes para as questões levantadas, baseados nos conceitos primários trazidos no caso.
Sustainable Development in Emerging Markets & CSR Codes of Conduct: Oil and Gas Industry in Brazil
Authors: Costa Ligia Maura
Published: August 2023

This paper intends to provide a comparative analysis of corporate social responsibility codes of conduct (CSR Codes) of the oil and gas industry operating in Brazil with the provisions embodied in the international legal framework system, such as the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights and the Fundamental Conventions of the International Labour Organization. For comparative purposes, and given the usual structure that CSR Codes tend to follow, the analysis has been developed around the three most emphasized issues - namely, labor and human rights, environment and socio-economic issues - which in turn have been divided into common subcategories of CSR Codes. One can argue that if CSR Codes are actually based on the new international sustainable development law, which may be used to verify CSR Codes' compliance and enforcement, CSR Codes can be seen as a «global commons» understanding framework to improve sustainable development operations in emerging markets such as Brazil.
Editorial Board
Authors: Admin JOSCM
Published: August 2023

Editorial Board, JOSCM v. 4. n. 1, 2011
Editorial Board
Authors: Admin JOSCM
Published: August 2023

Editorial Board, JOSCM v. 5, n. 2, 2012
Dos pressupostos de validade para a prorrogação por interesse público das concessões de serviço público
Authors: Guimarães Felipe Montenegro Viviani
Published: August 2023

Este artigo trata da prorrogação das concessões de serviço público por meras razões de conveniência e oportunidade das partes (ou prorrogação por interesse público). Seu objetivo é verificar os pressupostos de validade para a realização dessa espécie de prorrogação. O método de abordagem do tema é o dedutivo, e o método de pesquisa, o bibliográfico. Por fim, a principal conclusão deste artigo é que os pressupostos de validade da prorrogação por interesse público são: (i) previsão em lei; (ii) outorga precedida de licitação; (iii) previsão no edital de licitação; (iv) concessão em vigor; (v) não realização de prorrogação por interesse público anteriormente; (vi) fiel cumprimento do contrato pela concessionária; (vii) vantajosidade da medida; (viii) consenso entre as partes; e, em alguns casos, (ix) qualificação no Programa de Parcerias de Investimentos (PPI).