bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laparoscopic deroofing of a large hepatic cyst to relieve atypical cardiac symptoms
Authors: Rao Mihir , Karki Bishow , Jeffery Julie , Hakeem Abdul
Published: December 2023

A woman in her 60s was referred to the hepato-pancreato-biliary clinic for further assessment of a large hepatic cyst, which was incidentally identified by echocardiography. She was being investigated for possible crescendo angina on the backdrop of a 6-month history of increasing chest pain, shortness of breath, sweating, orthopnoea and paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnoea. Coronary angiography and echocardiography demonstrated normal cardiac physiology. A CT abdomen/pelvis confirmed an 8.5 cm hepatic cyst indenting the posterior and caudate lobes and abutting the inferior vena cava. Nocturnal dyspnoea was attributed to diminished venous return. Due to worsening symptoms and their impact on her job, the patient underwent laparoscopic deroofing of the hepatic cyst. Histopathology confirmed a simple hepatic cyst. In her first postoperative review clinic, 8 months after her initial visit to the cardiology team, the patient was asymptomatic and fully functional with a considerably improved quality of life.
Dietary habits in adolescent male and female handball players: the Swedish Handball Cohort
Authors: Onell Clara , Skillgate Eva , Melin Anna , Källberg Henrik , Waldén Markus , Edlund Klara , Hägglund Martin , Côté Pierre , Asker Martin
Published: December 2023

Objectives

This cross-sectional study aimed to describe dietary habits in Swedish adolescent handball players and differences with respect to sex and school grade.

Methods

Participants in the Swedish Handball Cohort answered a web-survey assessing adherence to sports nutrition recommendations for meal frequency and meal timing, and the Nordic Nutrition Recommendations (NNR) for fruits/vegetables and fish/seafood, food exclusions and use of dietary supplements. Differences with respect to sex and school grade were estimated with generalised linear models, generating prevalence ratios (PR) with 95% CIs.

Results

A total of 1040 participants (16.6±0.9 years, 51% males) were included. Overall, 70% and 90%, respectively, met recommendations for meal frequency and meal timing, whereas adherence to recommended carbohydrate intake during training/game was met by 17%. Adherence to the NNR for fruits/vegetables and fish/seafood was met by 16% and 37%, respectively. Twenty-eight per cent reported using dietary supplements. Females reported lower frequency of meals, especially morning snacks (−0.6 days/week (95% CI −0.3 to −0.9)) and evening snacks (−0.8 days/week (95% CI −0.5 to –1.1)), higher prevalence of exclusions due to intolerances (PR 1.66 (95% CI 1.31 to 2.01)) and other reasons (PR 1.36 (95% CI 1.08 to 1.64)), higher adherence to the NNR for fruits/vegetables (PR 2.30 (95% CI 1.98 to 2.62)) and use of micronutrient supplements (PR 1.72 (95% CI 1.43 to 2.00)) compared with males. Only small differences were observed between school grades.

Conclusions

Swedish adolescent handball players’ dietary habits are fairly in accordance with sports nutrition recommendations but not the NNR. Females appear to display more restrictive habits than males.
Women have less progression of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation: data from the RACE V study
Authors: Mulder Bart A , Khalilian Ekrami Neda , Van De Lande Martijn E , Nguyen Bao-Oanh , Weberndorfer Vanessa , Crijns Harry J , Geelhoed Bastiaan , Blaauw Yuri , Hemels Martin EW , Tieleman Robert G , Scheerder Coert OS , De Melis Mirko , Schotten Ulrich , Linz Dominik , Van Gelder Isabelle C , Rienstra Michiel
Published: December 2023

Background

Sex differences in atrial fibrillation (AF) are observed in terms of comorbidities, symptoms, therapies received, AF progression and cardiovascular complications.

Methods

We assessed the differences in prevalence and the determinants of AF progression, as well as the clinical characteristics and quality of life (QoL), between women and men with paroxysmal AF included in the RACE V (Reappraisal of Atrial Fibrillation: Interaction between hyperCoagulability, Electrical remodeling, and Vascular Destabilisation in the Progression of AF) study. At baseline, extensive phenotyping was done. To assess AF progression, implantable loop recorder (ILR) monitoring was used throughout follow-up. AF progression was defined as (1) progression to persistent or permanent AF or (2) progression of paroxysmal AF (>3% burden increase).

Results

417 patients were included, 179 (43%) of whom were women. Women were older (median 67 years vs 63 years, p<0.001), less often had coronary artery disease (n=11 (6%) vs n=36 (16%), p=0.003), had more obesity (n=57 (32%) vs n=50 (21%), p=0.013), had less epicardial and pericardial fat (median 144 (interquartile range [IQR] 94–191) mL vs 199 (IQR 146–248) mL, p<0.001; and median 89 (ICQ 61–121) mL vs 105 (IQR 83–133) mL, p<0.001, respectively) and had more impaired left atrial function. The median follow-up was 2.2 (1.6–2.8) years. 51 of 417 patients (5.5% per year) showed AF progression (15/179 (8.4%) women and 36/238 (15.1%) men, p=0.032). Multivariable analysis showed tissue factor pathway inhibitor, N-terminal prohormone brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and PR interval being associated with AF progression in women and factor XIIa:C1 esterase, NT-proBNP and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 in men. QoL was not different between sexes.

Conclusion

Despite older age, the incidence of AF progression was lower in women. Parameters associated with AF progression varied in part between sexes, suggesting different underlying pathophysiological mechanisms.
Connection between gravitational and inertial masses of compound objects and the weak equivalence principle
Authors: Silenko Alexander J.
Published: December 2023

The connection between gravitational and inertial masses of compound objects (e.g. nucleons, nuclei, atoms, and molecules) in the presence of rapid internal motions of their constituent parts is considered. The equality of gravitational and inertial masses of such objects confirming the weak equivalence principle is proven provided that their moving constituent parts are confined. The result is very nontrivial because of a substantial difference between particle dynamics in noninertial frames and gravitational fields. Paradoxically, gravitational effects are different for the same particles moving in the closed box and in the free space. The gravitational and inertial masses are equal to the corresponding kinematic masses. In contrast, gravitational masses of ensembles of noninteracting moving particles cannot be introduced because the total gravitational forces acting on these ensembles do not correspond to their kinematic masses.
10 Things Software Developers Should Learn about Learning
Authors: Brown Neil C. C. , Hermans Felienne F. J. , Margulieux Lauren E.
Published: December 2023

Understanding how human memory and learning works, the differences between beginners and experts, and practical steps developers can take to improve their learning, training, and recruitment.
Overview of GECCO 2023
Authors: Silva Sara , Paquete Luís
Published: December 2023

The 2023 Genetic and Evolutionary Computation Conference (GECCO 2023) took place in Lisbon, Portugal, on July 15th-19th, in hybrid mode. This was the second fully hybrid GECCO, where both speakers and non-speakers were able to participate either onsite or online. In the following, we provide statistics about submissions and authorship, as well as the evolution and growth of GECCO since 2005.
Review—Photoluminescence Spectroscopy of Mn2+-Activated Phosphors: Part II. Some Representative Phosphors
Authors: Adachi Sadao
Published: December 2023

The purpose of this review article, Part II, is to present the photoluminescence properties of Mn2+ ion in the intra-3d
5-shell electronic configuration activated in the various kinds of host materials. An analysis method presented in a separate article, Part I, are applied to the present Mn2+-activated phosphors. The characteristic photoluminescence (PL) properties for the Mn2+-activated phosphors are then discussed from a spectroscopic point of view. The phosphors considered herein can be classified into nine groups: (1) stoichiometric phosphor, (2) Mn2+-activated oxide phosphor, (3) Mn2+-activated phosphate phosphor, (4) Mn2+-activated nitride phosphor, (5) Mn2+-activated oxynitride phosphor, (6) Mn2+-activated chalcogenide phosphor, (7) Mn2+-activated halide phosphor, (8) Mn2+-activated organic−inorganic hybrid phosphor, and (9) Mn2+-activated multiple-site phosphor. The PL and PL excitation spectra are analyzed based on the theoretical modelling. Particularly, the effects of the lattice temperature on the PL intensity and luminescence lifetime are discussed in more detail. Key properties of the Mn2+-activated phosphors for use in a variety of device applications are also presented.
The influence of maturation and sex on intracranial blood velocities during exercise in children
Authors: Douglas Andrew J. M. , Talbot Jack S. , Perkins Dean , Dawkins Tony G. , Oliver Jon L. , Lloyd Rhodri S. , Ainslie Philip N. , McManus Ali , Pugh Christopher J. A. , Lord Rachel N. , Stembridge Mike
Published: December 2023

Cerebral blood velocity (CBv) in the anterior circulation was higher in females compared with males irrespective of maturational stage, but not in the posterior circulation. In response to exercise, females demonstrated a greater CBv compared with males, especially post-peak height velocity (post-PHV) where the CBv response to exercise was more pronounced. Our findings suggest that both CBv at rest and in response to acute submaximal exercise are altered by biological sex in a maturity-dependent manner.
Effect of acute heparin administration on glycocalyx thickness and endothelial function in healthy younger adults
Authors: Gimblet Colin J. , Ernst Jackson W. , Bos Kyle D. , Stroud Amy K. , Donato Anthony J. , Jalal Diana I. , Pierce Gary L.
Published: December 2023

The endothelial glycocalyx’s role in modulating vascular endothelial dysfunction with aging and disease is becoming increasingly recognized. This study presents novel findings that acute heparin administration is not a feasible method to experimentally degrade the endothelial glycocalyx and measure concurrent changes in vascular endothelial function in healthy humans. Alternative approaches will be needed to translate findings from preclinical studies and test the effects of acute endothelial glycocalyx degradation on vascular endothelial function in humans.
Retinal Toxicity after Initial Administration of Nivolumab and Ipilimumab
Authors: Kilani Adnan , Vounotrypidis Efstathios , König Susanna F. , Wolf Armin
Published: December 2023

Background. To present a rare case of a bilateral immune checkpoint inhibitor- (ICI-) induced photoreceptor injury with a bacillary layer detachment (BALAD) and a dissection of the photoreceptor inner and outer segment, accompanied by ICI-induced Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada- (VKH-) like uveitis after initial administration of nivolumab and ipilimumab. Case Presentation. A 52-year-old female with metastatic malignant cutaneous melanoma experiencing bilateral progressive visual acuity reduction, after treatment initiation with 1 mg/kg nivolumab and 3 mg/kg ipilimumab two weeks prior symptom onset. An extensive laboratory workup, including uveitis workup, onconeuronal and retinal antibodies, ruled out a paraneoplastic autoimmune disorder and a granulomatous disease. Furthermore, a B-scan was performed to exclude a posterior scleritis. Ensuing temporary treatment discontinuation of nivolumab and complete discontinuation of ipilimumab, treatment with high-dose systemic steroids was initiated, which resulted in alleviation of her symptoms and stability of ocular findings. Conclusions. ICIs can induce significant ocular side effects. As ocular inflammation can be well controlled using systemic steroids, treatment with ICIs can be continued whenever possible, in particular, if there is a good treatment response of the systemic malignancy.
Data from Cytoplasmic Irradiation Results in Mitochondrial Dysfunction and DRP1-Dependent Mitochondrial Fission
Authors: Zhang Bo , Davidson Mercy M. , Zhou Hongning , Wang Chunxin , Walker Winsome F. , Hei Tom K.
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Direct DNA damage is often considered the primary cause of cancer in patients exposed to ionizing radiation or environmental carcinogens. Although mitochondria are known to play an important role in radiation-induced cellular response, the mechanisms by which cytoplasmic stimuli modulate mitochondrial dynamics and functions are largely unknown. In the present study, we examined changes in mitochondrial dynamics and functions triggered by α particle damage to the mitochondria in human small airway epithelial cells, using a precision microbeam irradiator with a beam width of 1 μm. Targeted cytoplasmic irradiation using this device resulted in mitochondrial fragmentation and a reduction of cytochrome c oxidase and succinate dehydrogenase activity, when compared with nonirradiated controls, suggesting a reduction in respiratory chain function. In addition, mitochondrial fragmentation or fission was associated with increased expression of the dynamin-like protein DRP1, which promotes mitochondrial fission. DRP1 inhibition by the drug mdivi-1 prevented radiation-induced mitochondrial fission, but respiratory chain function in mitochondria inhibited by radiation persisted for 12 hours. Irradiated cells also showed an increase in mitochondria-derived superoxide that could be quenched by dimethyl sulfoxide. Taken together, our results provide a mechanistic explanation for the extranuclear, nontargeted effects of ionizing radiation. Cancer Res; 73(22); 6700–10. ©2013 AACR.
A Composite Decision Rule of CD8+ T-cell Density in Tumor Biopsies Predicts Efficacy in Early-stage, Immunotherapy Trials
Authors: Dejardin David , Kraxner Anton , Blank Annika , Rieder Natascha , Teichgräber Volker , Städler Nicolas , Beyer Ulrich , Gomes Bruno , Charo Jehad
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

To examine whether CD8+ T-cell numbers in paired tumor biopsies in early-stage clinical trials can be used as an early indicator of clinical benefit for cancer immunotherapies.

Experimental Design:

Paraffin sections of tumor biopsies were stained immunohistochemically for CD8+ T cells, which were digitally enumerated. The tumor biopsies were from cancer patients in early-phase trials testing novel immunotherapeutic agents. Paired biopsies taken before the start of treatment and on-treatment were compared. A total of 155 patients were used as the training set and an additional 221 patients were used as the validation set.

Results:

Using the Cox proportional hazard model, a ≥0.9- increase in fold change (FC) on a ln scale in CD8+ T cells (corresponding to a 2.5-fold increase on the linear scale), from baseline, demonstrated a greater association with prolonged progression-free survival and allowed improved differentiation between groups above and below the threshold. Similarly, a ≥6.2 threshold in geometric mean of the on-treatment density (OTD) of T cells, which approximately corresponds to 500 cells/mm2, correlated with longer PFS. The combination of both criteria (FC and OTD) provided the best discrimination between clinically nonactive and active compounds.

Conclusions:

We propose that a composite score of CD8+ T-cell density in paired biopsies taken before and on-treatment may be a new biomarker to inform on clinical outcomes in early immunotherapy clinical trials.
Figure S1 from FBXW7-loss Sensitizes Cells to ATR Inhibition Through Induced Mitotic Catastrophe
Authors: O'Brien Siobhan , Ubhi Tajinder , Wolf Lucie , Gandhi Krishna , Lin Sichun , Chaudary Naz , Dhani Neesha C. , Milosevic Michael , Brown Grant W. , Angers Stephane
Published: December 2023

Supplementary figure S1 shows flow cytometry gating strategy and additional DNA combing data
FIGURE 4 from FBXW7-loss Sensitizes Cells to ATR Inhibition Through Induced Mitotic Catastrophe
Authors: O'Brien Siobhan , Ubhi Tajinder , Wolf Lucie , Gandhi Krishna , Lin Sichun , Chaudary Naz , Dhani Neesha C. , Milosevic Michael , Brown Grant W. , Angers Stephane
Published: December 2023

Isogenic FBXW7-knockout cervical tumor organoids recapitulate AZD6738 sensitivity. A, Schematic of generation of patient-derived cervical tumor organoid cultures. B, Imaging of M45 cervical tumor organoid isolation over 7 days, scale bar 200 µm, arrows indicate actively expanding organoids. C, Representative Z-stack images of a single organoid stained with DNA stain (DAPI) and marker of proliferation (Ki67), 50 µm scale bar. D, Schematic of infection and selection of isogenic cervical tumor organoids. E, Representative Western blot analysis of FBXW7 knockout in isogenic organoids. F, Western blot analysis of pCHK1 (S345) in indicated organoids, representative of three independent replicates. G, Dose–response assay in organoids treated with AZD6738, over 7 days, scale bars 200 µm. Data are representative of three independent replicates. H, Quantification of cell viability relative to untreated cells in three independent replicates of organoid dose–response assay, mean ± SD, two-way ANOVA.
monumento à ruína: Santo Antônio como um bairro-jardim no Recife
Authors: Costa Thais Santos , Felix Neto Antonio Severino , Sá Carneiro Ana Rita , Pereira Larissa Maria Sotero
Published: December 2023

O bairro de Santo Antônio, localizado na ilha de Antônio Vaz, reúne uma história ilustrada pela monumentalidade na arquitetura e na arte dos jardins, entre o colonial e o moderno, compondo com a paisagem das águas. Dos atributos naturais nasceram jardins e ruas arborizadas distribuídos por entre as edificações institucionais e religiosas, na sua maioria, dando-lhe especial destaque. Entre os séculos XVIII e XX sofreu transformações urbanas que provocaram alterações de grande magnitude na sua configuração e na sua dinâmica. Ainda hoje, apesar de ser um sítio histórico, constata-se um processo gradual de deterioração resultante da decadência de usos que implicam o abandono das edificações e dos espaços públicos, fazendo-o perecer do monumento à ruína. A título de registro de uma época de glória, este artigo objetiva demonstrar, por meio da história urbana, em que medida as diversas camadas históricas desse palimpsesto, enraizadas de cultura popular, aliadas aos significativos espaços ajardinados caracterizaramSanto Antônio como um bairro-jardim.
"A Morte", de Gonçalves Dias: uma proposta de letramento literário através do gótico
Authors: Melo Eduardo Oliveira , Santana Gilberto Freire de , Silva Maria da Guia Taveiro
Published: December 2023

Por meio do presente artigo, visa-se propor um modelo de letramento literário no ensino médio a partir do gênero gótico, especialmente a poesia. Para esse fim, emprega-se o poema “A Morte”, de Gonçalves Dias, de seu livro “Primeiros Cantos” (1846). A proposta se baseia na sequência básica concebida por Rildo Cosson (2009), contemplando as etapas de motivação, introdução, leitura e interpretação. Todavia, emprega-se a perspectiva de outros autores para o aprimoramento do método.
Bilateral giant adrenal myelolipoma associated with congenital adrenal hyperplasia
Authors: Guimarães Isabela Milagres , Carrijo Alice Mirane Malta , Jorge Paulo Tannus , Penha-Silva Nilson , Gonçalves Fabrícia Torres
Published: December 2023

Adrenal myelolipomas are rare benign tumors, often non-functioning, located in the adrenal cortex, consisting mainly of mature adipose tissue and hematopoietic tissue. Although uncommon, the number of reported cases has increased due to the greater use of diagnostic imaging techniques. This tumor is usually unilateral and found as an adrenal incidentaloma, although there is a predominance of bilaterality in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). In this study, we report the case of a 33-year-old male patient with CAH due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency, in non-regular use of the control medication, with bilateral giant adrenal myelolipoma and subsequent evolution of bilateral testicular adrenal rest tumors. He underwent bilateral adrenalectomy by video laparoscopy. The anatomopathological analysis, which confirmed myelolipomas’ diagnosis, revealed the right adrenal with 430 g and 12.5 x 9.3 cm and the left with 257 g and 11.5 x 10.4 cm. This tumor may be accompanied by adrenocortical adenoma and carcinoma, ganglioneuroma, pheochromocytoma, Addison’s disease, Cushing’s syndrome, or CAH.Among the hypotheses of its pathogenesis, we highlight an association between the development of adrenal myelolipoma and chronic hormonal stimulation by the adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH), especially in CAH. The non-regular treatment of CAH with glucocorticoids may have contributed to the chronic and elevated secretion of ACTH and, consequently, to the development of bilateral giant adrenal myelolipoma.
A rare case of oxacillin-induced leukocytoclastic vasculitis
Authors: Rodrigues Cássio Alexandre Oliveira , Paiva Vaneska Silveira de , Martins Rand Randall
Published: December 2023

Leukocytoclastic vasculitis is a pathology whose mechanisms are associated with the process of vascular inflammation. It is estimated that up to 24% of the cases of vasculitis are drug-related, with beta-lactam antimicrobials being one of the pharmacological groups commonly associated with this adverse outcome. Oxacillin, a semisyntheticpenicillin, has a beta-lactam ring that confers biological activity and is most frequently associated with reports of leukocytoclastic vasculitis. However, similar cases related to this antimicrobial are rare, with only three cases identified in the literature. Against this background, we report a fourth case of leukocytoclastic vasculitis in a 56-yearold man, on oxacillin treatment, who developed the vasculitis on the 3rd day of antimicrobial use. In addition to oxacillin suspension, he was treated with 125 mg/day of intravenous methylprednisolone for seven days, followed by 20 mg/day of oral prednisone for four days, resulting in satisfactory remission of the skin lesions and no new adverse outcomes. This case provides further evidence supporting the potential causal relationship between the use of oxacillin and the development of leukocytoclastic vasculitis, albeit a rare occurrence. The positive response to therapeutic interventions, such as oxacillin suspension and corticosteroid treatment, underscores the effectiveness of these approaches in addressing this complication.
Histopathological findings of inflammatory activity in patients with subclinical carditis
Authors: Saraiva Lurildo Cleano de Ribeiro , Lima Sandro Golçalves de , Neves Catarina de Oliveira , Ferreira Gabriel Marino , Tenório Maiza de Oliveira
Published: December 2023

In patients with Chronic Rheumatic Carditis, active carditis is an often underdiagnosed condition. Rheumatic attacks promote the aggravation of existing lesions, leading to a deterioration of the patient’s clinical condition. Thus, reducing the morbidity and mortality of the disease depends, in part, on controlling relapses through secondary prophylaxis. Underdiagnosis is due in part to the occurrence of subclinical rheumatic attacks. This study was carried out with data from patients who were diagnosed with Chronic Rheumatic Carditis and who underwent cardiac surgery for valve replacement or repair, without clinical or laboratory evidence of rheumatic outbreak. A fragment of myocardium was sent for histopathological analysis. Data on the frequency of histopathological alterations compatible with a rheumatic outbreak were analyzed. After analysis, 80% of patients showed changes compatible with inflammatory activity. Of these, 87.5% had lymphocytic infiltrate; 25% had Aschoff’s nodules. The most frequent histopathological findings of chronic disease were myocardial hypertrophy in 56.7% of patients and fibrosis in 53.3%.
Lasar Segall: o pintor de almas
Authors: Barbosa Dayse Oliveira
Published: December 2023

ZATZ, Lia. Lasar Segall: o pintor de almas. São Paulo: Callis, 2001.
Autoria e Literatura Infantil em O Diabo na noite de Natal, de Osman Lins
Authors: Andrade Wesley Moreira de
Published: December 2023

O presente trabalho irá analisar o livro O Diabo na noite de Natal, de Osman Lins, sob a luz da noção de autoria, defendida pelo próprio escritor pernambucano em seu livro Guerra sem testemunhas (O Escritor, sua Condição e a Realidade Social) e por Maurice Blanchot, nos ensaios de O livro por vir. Além disso, veremos como a incursão osmaniana pela literatura infantil atende às expectativas do público para o qual se destina, remontando aos estudos de especialistas na área como Maria José Palo, Maria Rosa D. Oliveira e Maria Antonieta Antunes Cunha, através de uma escrita e uma linguagem criativa que entretém, educa e engaja o pequeno leitor.
Entre mensagem e desígnio: o lugar do desenho industrial na FAUUSP em meados da década de 1960
Authors: Fiammenghi João Bittar
Published: December 2023

Este artigo tem como objetivo debater os sentidos da inclusão das disciplinas de Desenho Industrial (DI) na reforma de ensino de 1962 ocorrida na Faculdade de Arquitetura e Urbanismo da Universidade de São Paulo (FAUUSP). A partir da interpelação de documentos oficiais da instituição e dos enunciados produzidos por seus docentes, procurou-se evidenciar duas questões principais. Primeiro, a diversidade de objetivos e intenções na origem do ensino de desenho industrial em São Paulo, destacando-se o ideário do “projetista total”, a ampliação das escalas de projeto nos estúdios e os problemas em torno da industrialização da construção. Depois, o texto discute e contextualiza os enunciados elaborados por Lucio Grinover em meados da década de 1960, colocando em primeiro plano sua aposta na cientificidade do ensino de projeto possibilitada pelas disciplinas de DI.
Experimental Models of Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome: A Review From Pathophysiology to Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Largeau Bérenger , Bergeron Sandrine , Auger Florent , Salmon Gandonnière Charlotte , Jonville-Béra Annie-Pierre , Ehrmann Stephan , Gautier Sophie , Bordet Régis
Published: December 2023

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a clinical and radiological entity characterized by nonspecific symptomatology (eg, headache, visual disturbances, encephalopathy, and seizures) and classically cortical and subcortical vasogenic edema predominantly affecting the parietooccipital region. PRES etiologies are usually dichotomized into toxic PRES (eg, antineoplastic drugs, illicit drugs) and clinical condition-associated PRES (eg, acute hypertension, dysimmune disorders). Although the pathophysiology of PRES remains elusive, 2 main pathogenic hypotheses have been suggested: cerebral hyperperfusion due to acute hypertension and cerebral hypoperfusion related to endothelial dysfunction. Research into the pathogenesis of PRES has emerged through the development of animal models in the last decade. The motivation for developing a suitable PRES model is 2-fold: to fill in knowledge gaps of the pathophysiological mechanisms involved, and to open new perspectives for clinical assessment of pharmacological targets to improve therapeutic management of PRES. All current models of PRES have a hypertensive background, on which other triggers (acute hypertension, inflammatory, drug toxicity) have been added to address specific facets of PRES (eg, seizures). The initial model consisted in inducing a reduced uterine perfusion pressure that mimics preeclampsia, a leading cause of PRES. More recently, a model of stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats on high-salt diet, originally developed for hypertensive small vessel disease and vascular cognitive impairment, has been studied in PRES. This review aims to discuss, depending on the research objective, the benefits and limitations of current experimental approaches and thus to define the desirable characteristics for studying the pathophysiology of PRES and developing new therapies.
Finding Fairness: Two Perspectives in International Criminal Law
Authors: Coleman Michelle
Published: December 2023

This review essay discusses two books: Fairness and Rights in International Criminal Procedure by Sophie Rigney and Punishing Atrocities through a Fair Trial by Jonathan Hafetz. It discusses the methods used in each book, their conceptions of fairness, and what they see as the future of fairness in international criminal law. The review argues that when the two books are read together they show how far fairness has come, where it is now, and where fairness is headed in the future.
On-Orbit Response Characteristics of Fengyun-4A Lightning Mapping Imager (LMI) and Their Impacts on LMI Detection
Authors: Hui Wen , Zhang Wenjuan , Lyu Weitao , Zhang Yijun , Li Pengfei
Published: December 2023

The effects of the response characteristics of the Fengyun-4A Lightning Mapping Imager (LMI) on its detection capability were studied using the raw event data of LMI in 2020. The simultaneous observation data of the Lightning Imaging Sensor (LIS) on the International Space Station (ISS) were used to evaluate the LMI detection capability. The results reveal that the minimum detectable radiance of lightning events in the 16 subregions of LMI has shown regional differences, with the southern subregions lower than the northern subregions, indicating that the southern ones are more conducive to the identification of events. The diurnal variation of the detectable event radiance in all subregions presents the main peak around noon, which comes from the influence of the bright background and varies largely in different subregions depending on the subregions’ response capability. The overall high values and regional differences of flash properties observed by LMI also show strong correlation with the variation of the minimum detectable radiance of events. Moreover, it is found that the southwest subregions have the highest coincidence ratio (CR) with ISS LIS, followed by the southeast subregions and the northeast subregions, and the northwest subregions have the lowest CR, which is closely related to the response of each subregion. The LIS flashes that can be detected by LMI are brighter, larger, and last longer compared to the total LIS flashes. The findings in this study will help explain the inconsistency of the LMI detection capability and promote the LMI data processing associated with pixel energy distribution.

Significance Statement

The Fengyun-4A (FY-4A) Lightning Mapping Imager (LMI) is the first geostationary satellite-borne lightning imager developed in China, which has the ability to continuously observe lightning within a large field of view. However, in the application of the data, it was found that the detection capability of the LMI differed significantly in different regions and exhibited diurnal variations, which may be related to the response characteristics of the LMI detector. This study reveals the effect of the response characteristics of the LMI detector on its detection results. The findings will help improve the usability of LMI data and improve the processing of these data to adjust the observation inconsistency.
PWSC: a novel clustering method based on polynomial weight-adjusted sparse clustering for sparse biomedical data and its application in cancer subtyping
Authors: Zhang Xiaomeng , Zhang Hongtao , Wang Zhihao , Ma Xiaofei , Luo Jiancheng , Zhu Yingying
Published: December 2023

Background

Clustering analysis is widely used to interpret biomedical data and uncover new knowledge and patterns. However, conventional clustering methods are not effective when dealing with sparse biomedical data. To overcome this limitation, we propose a hierarchical clustering method called polynomial weight-adjusted sparse clustering (PWSC).

Results

The PWSC algorithm adjusts feature weights using a polynomial function, redefines the distances between samples, and performs hierarchical clustering analysis based on these adjusted distances. Additionally, we incorporate a consensus clustering approach to determine the optimal number of classifications. This consensus approach utilizes relative change in the cumulative distribution function to identify the best number of clusters, resulting in more stable clustering results. Leveraging the PWSC algorithm, we successfully classified a cohort of gastric cancer patients, enabling categorization of patients carrying different types of altered genes. Further evaluation using Entropy showed a significant improvement (p = 2.905e−05), while using the Calinski–Harabasz index demonstrates a remarkable 100% improvement in the quality of the best classification compared to conventional algorithms. Similarly, significantly increased entropy (p = 0.0336) and comparable CHI, were observed when classifying another colorectal cancer cohort with microbial abundance. The above attempts in cancer subtyping demonstrate that PWSC is highly applicable to different types of biomedical data. To facilitate its application, we have developed a user-friendly tool that implements the PWSC algorithm, which canbe accessed at http://pwsc.aiyimed.com/.

Conclusions

PWSC addresses the limitations of conventional approaches when clustering sparse biomedical data. By adjusting feature weights and employing consensus clustering, we achieve improved clustering results compared to conventional methods. The PWSC algorithm provides a valuable tool for researchers in the field, enabling more accurate and stable clustering analysis. Its application can enhance our understanding of complex biological systems and contribute to advancements in various biomedical disciplines.
Unveiling promising immunogenic targets in Coxiella burnetii through in silico analysis: paving the way for novel vaccine strategies
Authors: Kodori Mansoor , Amani Jafar , Ahmadi Ali
Published: December 2023

Background

Coxiella burnetii, an intracellular pathogen, serves as the causative agent of zoonotic Q fever. This pathogen presents a significant threat due to its potential for airborne transmission, environmental persistence, and pathogenicity. The current whole-cell vaccine (WCV) utilized in Australia to combat Q fever exhibits notable limitations, including severe adverse reactions and limited regulatory approval for human use. This research employed the reverse vaccinology (RV) approach to uncover antigenic proteins and epitopes of C. burnetii, facilitating the development of more potent vaccine candidates.

Methods

The potential immunogenic proteins derived from C. burnetii RSA493/Nine Mile phase I (NMI) were extracted through manual, automated RV, and virulence factor database (VFDB) methods. Web tools and bioinformatics were used to evaluate physiochemical attributes, subcellular localization, antigenicity, allergenicity, human homology, B-cell epitopes, MHC I and II binding ratios, functional class scores, adhesion probabilities, protein-protein interactions, and molecular docking.

Results

Out of the 1850 proteins encoded by RSA493/NMI, a subset of 178 demonstrated the potential for surface or membrane localization. Following a series of analytical iterations, 14 putative immunogenic proteins emerged. This collection included nine proteins (57.1%) intricately involved in cell wall/membrane/envelope biogenesis processes (CBU_0197 (Q83EW1), CBU_0311 (Q83EK8), CBU_0489 (Q83E43), CBU_0939 (Q83D08), CBU_1190 (P39917), CBU_1829 (Q83AQ2), CBU_1412 (Q83BU0), CBU_1414 (Q83BT8), and CBU_1600 (Q83BB2)). The CBU_1627 (Q83B86 ) (7.1%) implicated in intracellular trafficking, secretion, and vesicular transport, and CBU_0092 (Q83F57) (7.1%) contributing to cell division. Additionally, three proteins (21.4%) displayed uncharacterized functions (CBU_0736 (Q83DJ4), CBU_1095 (Q83CL9), and CBU_2079 (Q83A32)). The congruent results obtained from molecular docking and immune response stimulation lend support to the inclusion of all 14 putative proteins as potential vaccine candidates. Notably, seven proteins with well-defined functions stand out among these candidates.

Conclusions

The outcomes of this study introduce promising proteins and epitopes for the forthcoming formulation of subunit vaccines against Q fever, with a primary emphasis on cellular processes and the virulence factors of C. burnetii.
Does the ultrasound imaging predict lower limb tendinopathy in athletes: a systematic review
Authors: Sharif Faiza , Ahmad Ashfaq , Shabbir Aliha
Published: December 2023

Background

To conduct a systematic review looking into the possibility of US imaging to anticipate and identify future patellar or Achilles tendinopathy symptoms.

Methods

The studies that were taken into consideration for this review were prospective studies that employed baseline US imaging of the patellar OR Achilles tendons in asymptomatic patients and follow-up measures of pain and/or function. Two impartial reviewers evaluated the study’s quality using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme instrument.

Results

Participants in the included studies in this review came from various sports. The systematic review revealed a link between baseline tendon abnormalities in the US and a higher chance of developing both patellar and Achilles tendinopathy as well as their future occurrence. Nine of the included studies examined the patellar tendon alone, eight the patellar and Achilles tendon together, and four the Achilles tendon exclusively. For both tendons, US administration is done in a largely consistent manner. The tendon abnormalities of tendon thickness, hypoechogenicity and vascularity at baseline were associated with an increased risk of both Achilles and patellar tendinopathy.

Conclusions

This systematic review shows that abnormal tendon structures seen by US in asymptomatic persons can predict the development of tendinopathy.
Relationship between mental health literacy and professional psychological help-seeking attitudes in China: a chain mediation model
Authors: Yang Jingyuan , Li Yunjia , Gao Rui , Chen Hui , Yang Zhihui
Published: December 2023

Background

Mental health literacy is considered an important factor in promoting professional psychological help-seeking attitudes. However, it is important to clarify the emotional and behavioral factors that underlie this association. Drawing from the ABC model of attitudes and the Health Disclosure Decision-Making Model, this study aimed to examine the mediating role of psychological help-seeking stigma and distress disclosure in the relationship between mental health literacy and professional psychological help-seeking attitudes.

Methods

We collected data from 827 participants in seven regions of China (597 female; Mage = 26.019, SD = 5.592 years old) using self-report measures, including the Mental Health Literacy Scale, Questionnaire of Stigma for Seeking Professional Psychological Help, Distress Disclosure Index, and Attitudes Toward Seeking Professional Psychological Help-Short Form. A chain mediation model was built to examine the relationships among mental health literacy, psychological help-seeking stigma, distress disclosure, and professional psychological help-seeking attitudes.

Results

The results of the analyses showed a positive association between mental health literacy and professional psychological help-seeking attitudes, with psychological help-seeking stigma and distress disclosure playing mediating roles in this relationship. Furthermore, even after controlling for participants’ age, gender, and education, the chain mediation effect of psychological help-seeking stigma and distress disclosure on the relationship between mental health literacy and professional psychological help-seeking attitudes was observed among the Chinese population.

Conclusions

These findings underscore the significance of mental health literacy in shaping professional psychological help-seeking attitudes, while emphasizing the need to account for psychological help-seeking stigma and distress disclosure when examining this association. Additionally, the model proposed in this study provides a valuable framework for promoting the utilization of professional mental health services.
Challenges in conducting population-based seroepidemiology survey of COVID-19 in Lagos State, Nigeria
Authors: Ojogbede Adewale Kayode , Bamidele Tajudeen Akanji , Aina Oluwagbemiga , Raheem Toyosi , Okwuraiwe Azuka , Amoo Olufemi , Osuolale Kazeem Adewale , Oladele David , Salako Abideen , Ige Fehintola , Musa Adesola Zaidat , Idigbe Ifeoma , Anwoju Fatimah , Baruwa Basit , Abdur-Razzak Hussein , Adebayo Bisola , Wright Kikelomo , Ohihoin Aigbe , Ezechi Oliver , Audu Rosemary
Published: December 2023

Population-based study is known to be a very essential type of study during and after a pandemic or epidemic, as it provides crucial information on the incidence, prevalence, and risk factors of the disease in question. There has been limited information about the challenges faced in conducting such surveys in Nigeria. In this paper, we will share our experience, and describe the challenges faced in conducting a population-based seroepidemiological study of COVID–19 in Lagos, Nigeria. Some challenges were peculiar to specific Local Government Areas (LGAs) while others were general. The challenges include general misconceptions of community members about health research, difficulties in mapping houses, planning for data collection, standardizing data collection, working in hard-to-reach communities when resources were limited as well as difficulty in collection of blood and naso-oropharyngeal swabs. Ways of overcoming these problems, lessons learnt, and recommendations are hereby discussed.
Unveiling the intersection: exploring obstetric violence in the Era of COVID-19 in Ecuador
Authors: Fors Martha , González Paloma , Jacho Santiago , Mena-Tudela Desirée , Falcón Kirsten
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Changes to healthcare delivery organization that have occurred to protect people from the virus COVID-19 may have led to harmful consequences to pregnant women intensifying obstetric violence. Prevalence of obstetric violence in Ecuador is high with a range between 30 and 70% approximately.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was performed with the participation of 1298 women who answered EPREVO questionnaire from June 2021 to January 2022. Obstetrics characteristics’ relationship before and during COVID-19 were examined using Fisher exact test.

Results

From 1598 respondents, 1284 (80.4%) gave birth before March 2020 Most of the participants (73.6%; CI:73.59–73.61) experienced obstetric violence during childbirth. Vaginal examination, enemas and genital shaving, episiotomy and cesarean section decreased significantly as well as rooming with the baby during the pandemic. Half of the women did not breastfeed the baby in the first hour but there were not statistically significant differences between giving birth before or during the infection from COVID-19.

Conclusions

Levels of obstetric violence in Ecuador remains high but without major differences due to the COVID-19 pandemic, however some harmful medical practices considered as obstetric violence decreased but maybe to the fear to be infected by the virus.
Occupational exposures and cancer risk in commercial laundry and dry cleaning industries: a scoping review
Authors: Landskroner Emma Ann , Tsai Candace Su-Jung
Published: December 2023

Background

The laundry and dry cleaning industries are critical for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in our daily lives. However, they have also been identified as sources of hazardous chemical exposure for workers, leading to potentially severe health implications. Despite mounting evidence that solvents like perchloroethylene and trichloroethylene are carcinogenic, they remain commonly used in the industry. Additionally, while alternative solvents are increasingly being utilized in response to indications of adverse health and environmental effects, there remains a significant gap in our understanding of the potential risks associated with exposure to these new agents.

Methods

This study aims to identify gaps in the literature concerning worker exposure to contemporary toxic chemicals in the laundry and dry cleaning industry and their associated carcinogenic risks. A scoping review of peer-reviewed publications from 2012 to 2022 was conducted to achieve this objective, focusing on studies that detailed chemical exposures, sampling methods, and workers within the laundry and dry cleaning sector.

Results

In this scoping review, 12 relevant papers were assessed. A majority (66%) examined perchloroethylene exposure, with one notable finding revealing that biomarkers from dry cleaners had significant micronuclei frequency and DNA damage, even when exposed to PCE at levels below occupational exposure limits. Similarly, another study supported these results, finding an increase in early DNA damage among exposed workers. Separate studies on TCE and benzene presented varied exposure levels and health risks, raising concern due to their IARC Group 1 carcinogen classification. Information on alternative solvents was limited, highlighting gaps in health outcome data, exposure guidelines, and carcinogenic classifications.

Conclusion

Research on health outcomes, specifically carcinogenicity from solvent exposure in dry cleaning, is limited, with 66% of studies not monitoring health implications, particularly for emerging solvents. Further, findings indicated potential DNA damage from perchloroethylene, even below set occupational limits, emphasizing the need to reevaluate safety limits. As alternative solvents like butylal and high-flashpoint hydrocarbons become more prevalent, investigations into the effects of their exposure are necessary to safeguard workers’ health. This scoping review is registered with the Open Science Framework, registration DOI: https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/Q8FR3.
Respiratory syncytial virus disease morbidity in Australian infants aged 0 to 6 months: a systematic review with narrative synthesis
Authors: Self Alice , Van Buskirk Joseph , Clark Jayden , Cochrane Johanne Elizabeth , Knibbs Luke , Cass-Verco John , Gupta Leena
Published: December 2023

Background

A significant proportion of the global respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) associated morbidity is accounted for by infants aged 0 to 6 months, who are particularly vulnerable to severe disease. In 2015, 44% of global hospitalisations in infants in this age group were secondary to RSV. The objective of this systematic review is to appraise and synthesise the local evidence of RSV infection morbidity among Australian infants aged 0 to 6 months and to assess the implications for future immunisation strategies.

Methods

Electronic databases (Medline, Embase, Pubmed and Global Health) were searched for full-text articles published between 2000 and 2023 in English language. Studies that examined markers of RSV disease morbidity in infants aged 0 to 6 months in Australia who had laboratory confirmed RSV infection were eligible for inclusion. The outcomes of interest were incidence, prevalence, testing rate, positivity rate, mortality, emergency department visits, community health visits, hospitalisation, intensive care unit admission, supplementary oxygen use, mechanical ventilation, risk factors for disease severity and monoclonal antibody use.

Results

The database search identified 469 studies. After removal of duplicates and full-text review, 17 articles were eligible for inclusion. This review was reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses and Synthesis without meta-analysis guidelines.

Conclusions

Qualitative analysis of the included studies showed that Australian infants aged 0 to 6 months have higher rates of RSV testing, positivity and incidence; and more likely to develop severe disease that requires hospitalisation, intensive care unit admission or respiratory support, compared to children and adults of all ages. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander infants aged 0 to 6 months demonstrated higher rates of RSV infection and hospitalisation, compared to non-Indigenous infants. Age-related trends persisted in geographic areas with varying seasonal transmission of RSV, and during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Passive immunisation strategies targeting infants in their first 6 months of life, either via vaccination of pregnant women or administration of long-acting monoclonal antibody during infancy, could effectively reduce RSV disease burden in Australia.