bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metabolomic profiling of exosomes reveals age-related changes in ovarian follicular fluid
Authors: Gu Yanqiong , Zhang Xunyi , Wang Ruixue , Wei Yingying , Peng Hao , Wang Kai , Li Han , Ji Yazhong
Published: January 2024

Background

Female fertility declines with increased maternal age, and this decline is even more rapid after the age of 35 years. Follicular fluid (FF) is a crucial microenvironment that plays a significant role in the development of oocytes, permits intercellular communication, and provides the oocytes with nutrition. Exosomes have emerged as being important cell communication mediators that are linked to age-related physiological and pathological conditions. However, the metabolomic profiling of FF derived exosomes from advanced age females are still lacking.

Methods

The individuals who were involved in this study were separated into two different groups: young age with a normal ovarian reserve and advanced age. The samples were analysed by using gas chromatography–time of flight mass spectrometry (GC–TOFMS) analysis. The altered metabolites were analysed by using Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis to identify the functions and pathways that were involved.

Results

Our data showed that metabolites in exosomes from FF were different between women of young age and women of advanced age. The set of 17 FF exosomal metabolites (P ≤ 0.05) may be biomarkers to differentiate between the two groups. Most of these differentially expressed metabolites in FF were closely involved in the regulation of oocyte number and hormone levels.

Conclusions

In this study, we identified differences in the metabolites of exosomes from FF between women of young age and women of advanced age. These different metabolites were tightly related to oocyte count and hormone levels. Importantly, these findings elucidate the metabolites of the FF exosomes and provide a better understanding of the nutritional profiles of the follicles with age.
Surgical treatment for right-side aortic arch concomitant with Kommerell’s diverticulum: techniques selection and follow-up results
Authors: Wang Yali , Li Shuchun , Jin Min , Xue Yunxing , Wang Dongjin , Zhou Qing
Published: January 2024

Background

Right-side aortic arch concomitant with Kommerell’s diverticulum (KD) is a rare and complex ailment, and there is no consensus on the optimal strategy to deal with this congenital anomaly. We retrospectively analyzed and summary of the cases treated in our center with individual treatment methods for different situations.

Methods

Between September 2018 and December 2021, 10 patients experienced surgical therapy at our institution who presented with a Kommerell’s diverticulum arising from an aberrant subclavian artery from the right-side aortic arch. Four main surgical techniques were applied to those patients: 1. total arch replacement with frozen elephant trunk implantation (n = 2); 2. hybrid procedure combining open arch repair and endovascular intervention (n = 1); 3. total endovascular repair using thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) with or without left subclavian artery (LSCA) revascularization (n = 6); 4. direct repair underwent endoaneurysmorrhaphy. Clinical characteristics and outcomes were collected.

Results

The mean age of these 10 patients was 56.5 years (range 29–79 years) and only 1 woman. The pathology includes aortic dissection (n = 6) and aneurysm (n = 4). The mean diverticulum size was 41.4 [24.2–56.8] mm. There were no in-hospital deaths, and the median hospital stay was 22 [15–43] days. During the follow-up period (21.4 months, 1–44 months), one died of an unknown cause and one died of esophageal fistula. Two patients underwent second-stage endovascular intervention for distal lesion. And none of the patients had endoleak during the follow-up period.

Conclusions

Each of the procedures we have mentioned here has its advantages and disadvantages; individualized treatment should meet the appropriate indications. A single-branched stent graft is feasible and effective in the treatment of aortic disease combined with Kommerell’s diverticulum.
The diversity and clinical implications of genetic variants influencing clopidogrel bioactivation and response in the Emirati population
Authors: Khasawneh Lubna Q. , Alsafar Habiba , Alblooshi Hiba , Allam Mushal , Patrinos George P. , Ali Bassam R.
Published: January 2024

Background

Clopidogrel is a widely prescribed prodrug that requires activation via specific pharmacogenes to exert its anti-platelet function. Genetic variations in the genes encoding its transporter, metabolizing enzymes, and target receptor lead to variability in its activation and platelet inhibition and, consequently, its efficacy. This variability increases the risk of secondary cardiovascular events, and therefore, some variations have been utilized as genetic biomarkers when prescribing clopidogrel.

Methods

Our study examined clopidogrel-related genes (CYP2C19, ABCB1, PON1, and P2Y12R) in a cohort of 298 healthy Emiratis individuals. The study used whole exome sequencing (WES) data to comprehensively analyze pertinent variations of these genes, including their minor allele frequencies, haplotype distribution, and their resulting phenotypes.

Results

Our data shows that approximately 37% (n = 119) of the cohort are likely to benefit from the use of alternative anti-platelet drugs due to their classification as intermediate or poor CYP2C19 metabolizers. Additionally, more than 50% of the studied cohort exhibited variants in ABCB1, PON1, and P2YR12 genes, potentially influencing clopidogrel’s transport, enzymatic clearance, and receptor performance.

Conclusions

Recognizing these alleles and genotype frequencies may explain the clinical differences in medication response across different ethnicities and predict adverse events. Our findings underscore the need to consider genetic variations in prescribing clopidogrel, with potential implications for implementing personalized anti-platelet therapy among Emiratis based on their genetic profiles.
Fenofibrate alleviates NAFLD by enhancing the PPARα/PGC-1α signaling pathway coupling mitochondrial function
Authors: Wang Xuemei , Wang Jieying , Ying Cao , Xing Yuan , Su Xuan , Men Ke
Published: January 2024

Background

To comprehend the influences of fenofibrate on hepatic lipid accumulation and mitochondrial function-related signaling pathways in mice with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) secondary to high-fat diets together with free fatty acids-influenced HepG2 cells model.

Materials and methods

A random allocation of male 6-week C57BL/6J mice into three groups was done, including controls, model (14 weeks of a high-fat diet), and fenofibrate [similar to the model one with administered 0.04 g/(kg.d) fenofibrate by gavage at 11 weeks for 4 weeks] groups, which contained 10 mice each. This study verified NAFLD pathogenesis via mitochondrial functions in hepatic pathological abnormalities, liver index and weight, body weight, serum biochemical indexes, oxidative stress indicators, mitochondrial function indexes, and related signaling pathways. The effect of fenofibrate intervention was investigated in NAFLD model mice. In vitro, four groups based on HepG2 cells were generated, including controls, the FFA model (1.5 mmol/L FFA incubation for 24 h), LV-PGC-1α intervention (similar to the FFA model one after PPARGC1A lentivirus transfection), and LV control intervention (similar to the FFA model one after negative control lentivirus transfection) groups. The study investigated the mechanism of PGC-1α related to lipid decomposition and mitochondrial biosynthesis by Oil red O staining, colorimetry and western blot.

Results

In vivo experiments, a high-fat diet achieved remarkable changes regarding liver weight, liver index, serum biochemical indicators, oxidative stress indicators, liver pathological changes, mitochondrial function indicators, and body weight of the NAFLD model mice while fenofibrate improved the objective indicators. In the HepG2 cells model, the lipid accumulation increased significantly within the FFA model group, together with aggravated hepatocytic damage and boosted oxidative stress levels. Moreover, FFA induced excessive mitosis into fragmented in mitochondrial morphology, ATP content in cells decreased, mtDNA replication fold decreased, the expression of lipid decomposition protein PPARα reduced, mitochondrial biosynthesis related protein PGC-1α, NRF-1 and TFAM decreased. PGC-1α overexpression inhibited lipid deposition by improving mitochondrial biosynthesis and lipid decomposition.

Conclusion

Fenofibrate up-regulated PPARα/PGC-1α signaling pathway, promoted mitochondrial β-oxidation, reduced oxidative stress damage and lipid accumulation of liver. PGC-1α overexpression enhanced mitochondrial biosynthesis and ATP production, and reduced HepG2 intracellular accumulation of lipids and oxidative stress.
Lactadherin immunoblockade in small extracellular vesicles inhibits sEV-mediated increase of pro-metastatic capacities
Authors: Durán-Jara Eduardo , del Campo Matías , Gutiérrez Valentina , Wichmann Ignacio , Trigo César , Ezquer Marcelo , Lobos-González Lorena
Published: January 2024

Background

Tumor-derived small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) can promote tumorigenic and metastatic capacities in less aggressive recipient cells mainly through the biomolecules in their cargo. However, despite recent advances, the specific molecules orchestrating these changes are not completely defined. Lactadherin is a secreted glycoprotein typically found in the milk fat globule membrane. Its overexpression has been associated with increased tumorigenesis and metastasis in breast cancer (BC) and other tumors. However, neither its presence in sEVs secreted by BC cells, nor its role in sEV-mediated intercellular communication have been described. The present study focused on the role of lactadherin-containing sEVs from metastatic MDA-MB-231 triple-negative BC (TNBC) cells (sEV-MDA231) in the promotion of pro-metastatic capacities in non-tumorigenic and non-metastatic recipient cells in vitro, as well as their pro-metastatic role in a murine model of peritoneal carcinomatosis.

Results

We show that lactadherin is present in sEVs secreted by BC cells and it is higher in sEV-MDA231 compared with the other BC cell-secreted sEVs measured through ELISA. Incubation of non-metastatic recipient cells with sEV-MDA231 increases their migration and, to some extent, their tumoroid formation capacity but not their anchorage-independent growth. Remarkably, lactadherin blockade in sEV-MDA231 results in a significant decrease of those sEV-mediated changes in vitro. Similarly, intraperitoneally treatment of mice with MDA-MB-231 BC cells and sEV-MDA231 greatly increase the formation of malignant ascites and tumor micronodules, effects that were significantly inhibited when lactadherin was previously blocked in those sEV-MDA231.

Conclusions

As to our knowledge, our study provides the first evidence on the role of lactadherin in metastatic BC cell-secreted sEVs as promoter of: (i) metastatic capacities in less aggressive recipient cells, and ii) the formation of malignant ascites and metastatic tumor nodules. These results increase our understanding on the role of lactadherin in sEVs as promoter of metastatic capacities which can be used as a therapeutic option for BC and other malignancies.
Motives for Caffeine Consumption Questionnaire (MCCQ): validity and reliability of Turkish version
Authors: Küçükkasap Tuğba , Uslu Burcu
Published: January 2024

Objectives

The aims of this study are to make the Turkish validity and reliability of the scale that explain why caffeine intake. Additionally, it is crucial to highlight that the adaptation of the scale involved a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to validate its structure and the need for this adaptation in the Turkish context.

Materials and methods

The study was carried out with a total of 200 university students, comprised of 93.5% female and 6.5% male participants, with a mean age of 21.74 ± 6.15 years who were actively studying in the faculties of the universities who accepted to participate voluntarily in the study were included. The Turkish version of the Motives for Caffeine Consumption Questionnaire (MCCQ) scale and the MCCQ was used as the data collection tools. To evaluate the statistical analysis findings, the margin of error was taken as 5%. The entire application was carried out with the R-project software. CFA was used to test the adaptation of the MCCQ scale from English to Turkish.

Results

The alpha internal consistency coefficient for the whole scale was calculated as 0.959. Just like the original scale, the Turkish version shows a six-factor structure: habit, alertness, mood, social, taste, and symptom management. In MCCQ-TR, it showed a low level of positive correlation with Yale Food Addiction Scale (YFAS). For the final scale with 23 items and 6 sub-dimensions, it was determined that the fit indices were at an acceptable level, and the internal consistency was highly reliable for all sub-dimensions and the total scale.

Conclusions

It has been determined that the Turkish version of the MCCQ is a valid and reliable measurement tool to operationalize the motives of caffeine consumption and to reveal possible differences in the motives regarding gender, age, and the type of caffeinated products consumed. The use of CFA in adapting the scale ensures the robustness of the structural validity in the Turkish context, making this adaptation a valuable contribution to the field.
Avoiding adverse events in interventional radiology – a systematic review on the instruments
Authors: Blum Sophia Freya Ulrike , Hoffmann Ralf-Thorsten
Published: January 2024

Background

Avoiding AEs is a pivotal fundament for high patient safety in an efficient interventional radiology (IR) department. Although IR procedures are considered to have a lower risk than their surgical alternatives, they account for one third of all radiological adverse events (AEs) and in general, the number of AEs is increasing. Thus, measures to prevent AEs in IR are of interest.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted via handsearch and Ovid. A structured data extraction was performed with all included studies and their quality of evidence was evaluated. Finally, data were aggregated for further statistical analysis.

Results

After screening 1,899 records, 25 full-text publications were screened for eligibility. Nine studies were included in the review. Of those, four studies investigated in simulator training, one in team training, three in checklists, and one in team time-out. Eight were monocenter studies, and five were conducted in a non-clinical context. Study quality was low. Aggregation and analysis of data was only possible for the studies about checklists with an overall reduction of the median error per procedure from 0.35 to 0.06, observed in a total of 20,399 and 58,963 procedures, respectively.

Conclusion

The evidence on the instruments to avoid AEs in IR is low. Further research should be conducted to elaborate the most powerful safety tools to improve patient outcomes in IR by avoiding AEs.
Beyond pediatrics: noninvasive spinal neuromodulation improves motor function in an adult with cerebral palsy
Authors: Sachdeva Rahul , Girshin Kristin , Shirkhani Yousef , Gad Parag
Published: January 2024

Regaining motor function in individuals with cerebral palsy (CP) has been predominantly studied in children, resulting in an underrepresentation of adults in research efforts. We tested the efficacy of noninvasive spinal neuromodulation with neurorehabilitation (Spinal Cord Innovation in Pediatrics; SCiP™ therapy). A 60-year-old CP participant underwent 8 weeks of SCiP™ therapy, resulting in significant motor recovery measured by 14.2-points increase in gross motor function measure (GMFM-88) score, ~ three times the Minimal Clinically Important Difference (MCID) of 5-points. This represented gains in kneeling, sitting, and walking functions. The improvement in GMFM-88 score was maintained above the MCID at the follow up visit (10.3 points above the baseline), twenty weeks following the last therapy session, indicating a persistent effect of the therapy. Our preliminary findings support the therapeutic promise of SCiP™ therapy for enhancing motor function in CP adults. Broader investigations are needed to establish its wider applicability.
Analysis of social media compliance with cannabis advertising regulations: evidence from recreational dispensaries in Illinois 1-year post-legalization
Authors: Marinello Samantha , Valek Rebecca , Powell Lisa M.
Published: January 2024

Background

In the USA, an increasing number of states have legalized commercial recreational cannabis markets, allowing a private industry to sell cannabis to those 21 and older at retail locations known as dispensaries. Research on tobacco and alcohol suggests this new industry will use aggressive marketing tactics to attract new users and promote greater intensity of use. Of concern is that cannabis company advertising campaigns may be appealing to youth, promote false or misleading health claims, and disproportionately target low-income and minority communities. In this study, we evaluated recreational cannabis dispensary compliance with advertising regulations on social media in the state of Illinois.

Methods

Primary data were collected from a census of recreational dispensary Facebook and Twitter business pages during the first year of recreational sales in 2020. A quantitative content analysis was conducted to systematically analyze the data; a codebook that detailed a protocol for classifying posts was developed prior to the analysis using advertising regulations outlined in the Illinois Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act. Violations of advertising regulations were organized into three categories: advertisements that may be appealing to youth (< 21 years old), advertisements that make health claims, and other advertising violations. The data were analyzed cross-sectionally and longitudinally. Additionally, differences in compliance were assessed by dispensary and neighborhood characteristics.

Results

The results of the analysis revealed substantial and persistent non-compliance throughout the entire study period. Overall, nearly one third of posts had at least one violation and approximately one in ten posts met the criteria for appealing to youth or contained health claims. The majority of posts with health claims included health claims that were not qualifying conditions for medical cannabis access in the state of Illinois. No differences in compliance by neighborhood and dispensary characteristics were found.

Conclusions

The findings from this study suggest that systematic monitoring and enforcement is needed to ensure compliance with advertising regulations.
Comparison of perceptions in Canada and USA regarding cannabis and edibles
Authors: Music Janet , Sterling Brian , Charlebois Sylvain , Goedhart Christine
Published: January 2024

Background

Canada took a national approach to recreational cannabis that resulted in official legalization on October 17, 2018. In the United States (US), the approach has been more piecemeal, with individual states passing their own laws regulating adult use. The objective of this study was to compare the two jurisdictions.

Methods

Two exploratory, quantitative surveys were administered in May of 2021 in both Canada and the US. One thousand forty-seven Canadian and 1037 US residents (age 19 and older) were surveyed on approaches to and attendant regulations of consumer cannabis. Tests of significance were performed to analyze differences between two groups.

Results

No statistically significant differences exist between the two countries in terms of cannabis legalization acceptance. Usage rates among adults was similar with 45% of Canadians and 42% of Americans confirming they consume cannabis. Respondents maintain that they intend to increase their usage, with edibles attracting a rising level of interest from consumers.

Conclusions

Results suggest that public policy in both Canada and the USA needs to change to reflect rapidly evolving acceptance of cannabis products in North America to realize potential economic returns.
Functional somatic syndromes are associated with inferior outcomes and increased complications after hip and knee arthroplasty: a systematic review
Authors: Masood Raisa , Mandalia Krishna , Pagani Nicholas R. , Moverman Michael A. , Puzzitiello Richard N. , Menendez Mariano E. , Salzler Matthew J.
Published: January 2024

Background

Functional somatic syndromes (FSSs), defined as chronic physical symptoms with no identifiable organic cause, may impact results after hip and knee arthroplasty. The purpose of this study was to perform a systematic review assessing the relationship between FSSs and clinical outcomes after primary total hip arthroplasty (THA), total knee arthroplasty (TKA), and unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA).

Methods

The PubMed and Web of Science databases were queried from January 1955 through December 2021 for studies investigating the impact of at least one FSS (fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), chronic headaches, and chronic low back pain) on outcomes after primary THA/TKA/UKA. Outcomes of interest included patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), postoperative opioid use, complications, revisions, and costs of care.

Results

There were twenty-eight studies, including 768,909 patients, of which 378,384 had an FSS. Five studies reported preoperative PROMs prior to THA/TKA, all of which showed worse PROMs among patients with at least 1 FSS diagnosis. Thirteen studies reported postoperative PROMs after THA/TKA, all of which demonstrated worse PROMs among patients with at least 1 FSS diagnosis. Patients with FSS diagnoses were more likely to continue using opioids at 3, 6, and 12 months following TKA, THA, and UKA. Medical and surgical complications, as well as revision rates, were higher among patients with FSSs.

Conclusion

Patients with FSSs have inferior PROMs and are at increased risk for prolonged postoperative opioid use, medical and surgical complications, and revision after hip and knee arthroplasty. Improved understanding of the factors influencing the success of hip and knee arthroplasty is critical. Future studies should address the biopsychosocial determinants of health that can impact outcomes after total joint arthroplasty.
The significance of miRNA-191-5P and miRNA-24-3P as novel biomarkers for multiple sclerosis: a case–control study
Authors: Shaheen Noha Mohamed Hosny , Sherif Mai Mahmood Sherif Salahe Eldain , El Sayed Amr Hassan , El Toukhy Marwan Mohamed , Ahmed Shaimaa Raafat Metwally Sayed , Samy Lamees Ahmed , Tamim Hend Hamed
Published: January 2024

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a long-term disease that can lead to disability. microRNAs (miRNA) can provide noninvasive markers allowing more frequent and easy testing in MS. Treatment methods based on manipulating miRNA activity can be innovative. The purpose of this work is to measure the serum expression of miRNA-191-5P and miRNA-24-3P in MS patients. The investigation was carried out on 80 patients with MS (68 patients with Relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), 12 patients with Progressive MS) and 40 healthy controls. The serum expression of miRNA-191-5P and miRNA-24-3P was measured using real-time quantitative PCR. The expression of the studied miRNAs was relatively calculated using the Eq. 2−ΔΔCt.

Results

Serum levels of miRNA-191 and miRNA-24 showed no difference between MS patients and healthy controls, and neither between RRMS and progressive MS groups. A negative correlation was detected between miRNA-191 and disease duration. Also, a positive correlation was detected between miRNA-191 and miRNA-24 expression. RRMS patients were significantly different from progressive MS patients regarding disease duration (p value 0.001) as well as expanded disability status scale score (p value < 0.001).

Conclusion

The study uniquely analyzed the correlation between the miRNA-191 and miRNA-24, being expressed in all MS patients, and being positively correlated means they are influenced by the same factors and they can be therapeutically targeted in the same way, so further studies are required. The impact of disease duration on miRNA-191 expression encourages regular monitoring of miRNA-191.
Prevalence and types of anemia in infancy, Egypt: cross-sectional study
Authors: Elattar Mahmoud Abdelgawad , Gad Samah Ahmed , Abd ela-zziz Amany Mohamed , Elsheikh Taghreed Salah , Beltagy Esraa Morshedy , Elgamal Asmaa Nabil , Elmsri Hassan Yousef , El refae Vian Abd el halim
Published: January 2024

Background

Infant anemia has a significant impact on physical and cognitive development, not only in infancy but also throughout their life.

Objective

The study aimed to estimate the prevalence, types, and risk factors of anemia in infancy.

Patients and Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 498 infants aged 6-23 months who attended five primary healthcare centers in Kafr-el Sheikh governorate, Egypt, for vaccination and follow-up.

Results

The prevalence of anemia among the study infants was 44%, with the highest in those aged 6-12 months. Maternal anemia in pregnancy, low birth weight infant, and lack of adherence to iron supplementation were the significant risk factors for anemia.

Conclusion

Infant anemia in Egypt resembles a complicated multifactorial severe health issue with a long-run burden. Health policy interventions such as early screening at 6 months old, more adherence to iron supplements for infants, maternal nutrition education, family planning, and birth spacing between siblings should be accessed to overcome and manage this health problem.
Online environmental platforms service and green consumer behavior nexus: a multi-mediator study
Authors: Rana Seemab , Shafi Fazilathunissa , Rasheed Aimen , Malik Muhammad Imran
Published: January 2024

Green purchase behavior in Pakistan faces challenges due to lack of awareness, limited availability, and greenwashing by companies that demand use of online environmental platforms. The study aims to examine the effect of Online Environmental Platforms Service on green purchase behaviors of customers who intend to buy green energy products. Moreover, the indirect effects of environmental attitude, price sensitivity and impulsiveness are examined as mediators. The relationships are examined in light of theory of planned behavior. The data from a sample of 301 customers were gathered using a closed-ended questionnaire. The customers aged between 30 and 50 years were considered for the study. The findings unequivocally reveal that the provision of online environmental platforms has a profound effect on the ecological shopping inclinations of customers. The green purchase behavior of consumers is amplified, as is their green purchase attitude and consumer impulsiveness. However, an alert emerges—price sensitivity, despite its noteworthy impact on consumer behavior, curiously, impedes actual green purchasing. Investigating deeper, it becomes apparent that the remarkable impact of online environmental platforms is mediated by two factors: the green consumer attitude and consumer impulsiveness. These two factors act as conduits for the transmission of the influence of the online platforms, empowering consumers to make eco-conscious decisions. The marketers can enhance green purchase behaviors among customers by making effective use of the online environmental platform services. The Online Environmental Platforms Services can enhance sales and can be an effective strategy for high profits.
Allocating budget in developing countries, the need to fight corruption: evidence from Sub-Saharan African countries
Authors: Bazie Porto , Thiombiano Noël , Maiga Eugénie. W. H.
Published: January 2024

This paper highlights the need to fight corruption in developing economies to ensure a better allocation of public resources in a context of institutional failure with the discretionary power of budgetary authorities. The study uses a panel of 48 Sub-Saharan African countries by combining several databases (WDI, WGI, SPEED BASE DATA and PWT), estimate by generalized moment method in system, the bias-corrected estimation linear dynamic panel data [6] and the type of error correction (Driscoll–Kraay). The results indicate that the phenomenon of corruption in the form of rent capture has two effects on public resources. One effect is linked to the level of public spending and the other to the distribution of public resources. Thus, corruption leads to an increase in the overall level of public spending. Corruption reduces spending on education, mining and communications, but increases spending on the military, health and transport. The study recommends that political leaders in developing countries strengthen and rigorously enforce anti-corruption laws, and raise public awareness of the underground economy.
Evaluating the impact of self-service cash deposit machines on the performance of commercial banks in Tanzania
Authors: Ismail Ally Mohamed , Pastory Dickson
Published: January 2024

This study aims to evaluate the impact of utilization of self-service cash deposit machines (SSCDMs) on the financial performance of Tanzanian commercial banks, focusing on key parameters like capital adequacy, asset quality, management quality, earning ability, and liquidity. The research, conducted over six years (2017–2022), utilizes a CAMEL analysis and combines secondary data review with primary data collected through interviews. Four commercial banks' audited financial statements serve as the primary data source. The findings indicate a mixed impact of SSCDM utilization on bank performance, with some banks experiencing positive effects on capital adequacy and liquidity ratios, while others show performance fluctuations. Overall, SSCDMs are found to enhance operational efficiency and convenience, attracting more customers and increasing deposit volumes. However, potential liquidity management challenges are noted. This study contributes valuable insights to the evolving Tanzanian banking sector, aiding policymakers and bank management in informed decision-making regarding self-service banking technologies.

Graphical abstract
Multifaceted applications of micro/nanorobots in pharmaceutical drug delivery systems: a comprehensive review
Authors: Das Tanisha , Sultana Shirin
Published: January 2024

Background

Drug delivery systems (DDSs) encompass a wide range of methods, including oral, injectable, and topical routes of administration, all tailored to meet specific patient needs. Micro and nanorobots, equipped with pioneering propulsion mechanisms that convert external energy sources into precise movements, have revolutionized drug delivery. This cutting-edge technology ensures highly efficient drug delivery, particularly when targeting specific targets within intricate physiological environments. In contrast to traditional drug delivery approaches that rely on bloodstream circulation, engineered micro/nanorobots have autonomous mobility, enabling drug delivery to previously unreachable areas.

Main body of the abstract

Integrating micro/nanorobots into drug delivery raises vital safety and biocompatibility issues. These encompass material selection, degradation in-vivo, overcoming biological barriers, controlled movement, external interference, immune response, chemical reactions, systemic effects, long-term impact, and real-time monitoring. While micro/nanorobots hold immense transformative potential, they confront significant hurdles in their journey toward practical applications. Chief among these challenges are concerns regarding biocompatibility, ensuring that these tiny devices do not trigger adverse reactions. Long-term safety remains a critical issue, as understanding the effects of prolonged exposure and potential accumulations within the body and navigating complex biological environments with precision is another obstacle.

Short conclusion

The paper summarizes how to explore the various ways in which micro/nanorobots can be employed to enhance drug delivery, including their precision, targeting capabilities, and adaptability to different physiological conditions. Additionally, the review seeks to highlight the transformative potential of these technologies and their impact on the pharmaceutical industry.
Infestation patterns of a major wood boring pest,
Psiloptera fastuosa
(Buprestidae: Coleoptera) in Tasar,
Terminalia arjuna
(Myrtales: Combretaceae) plantation
Authors: Mandal Sumit , Dolai Avishek , Mandal Kartik Chandra , Das Amlan
Published: January 2024

Tasar silk is a significant cash crop in the tropics. In Tasar culture, arjuna (
Terminalia arjuna
) (Combretaceae) are often planted on farms because the Tasar worm largely consumes their leaves, 
Antheraea paphia
 (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae). The wood-boring 
Psiloptera fastuosa
 (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) causes severe threats to Tasar plantations during their mating season (September equinox to December solstice). After hatching, the coleopteran grubs puncture and penetrate the arjuna stem, mature into pupae inside, pass into adults, and exit through emergence holes, causing severe damage to younger plants. Though such infestations are highly fatal, no precautions have been proposed to protect the arjuna plantations. Therefore, sustainable Tasar plantation management is highly challenging because of limited bio-ecological information and the infestation pattern of the pest. This study investigates the origins and implications of 
P. fastuosa
 infestations in 
T. arjuna
 plantations. Our study focuses on seasonal changes in 
P. fastuosa
 assaults on its primary host and infestation frequency in an Indian agroecosystem. Second, we examined whether host plant age and size affected the 
P. fastuosa
 invasion. The occurrence and distribution of emergence holes for adult beetles on the arjuna bark and the intensity of wood galleries on the stem aid in assessing the beetle infestation. It was observed that 4 to 8-year-old arjuna plants wilted more frequently than younger (< 4 years) and older (> 8 years) plants. Since most infestations occur on the main trunks up to the middle of the plant's height during autumn, insecticidal treatments can be performed around the middle of the main trunks of 4–8-year-old arjuna plants during fall. The findings of this study will benefit the management and propagation of arjuna plants for tropical Tasar silk production.
Comparison of the Efficacy of Ezetimibe Combination Therapy and High-Intensity Statin Monotherapy in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Park So Young , Jun Ji Eun , Jeong In-Kyung , Ahn Kyu Jeung , Chung Ho Yeon , Hwang You-Cheol
Published: January 2024

Context

Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C)-lowering therapy is considerably important in preventing cardiovascular disease (CVD) among patients with diabetes. Studies comparing CVD, stroke, and mortality outcomes of low- or moderate-intensity statins with ezetimibe combination therapy and high-intensity statin monotherapy in patients with diabetes remain lacking.

Objective

This study compared the primary prevention effect of myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, and all-cause death between combination therapy of low- or moderate-intensity statins and ezetimibe and high-intensity statin monotherapy in patients with diabetes using the Korean National Health Insurance claims database.

Methods

Patients aged ≥20 years with type 2 diabetes and dyslipidemia were enrolled. The combination therapy of low- or moderate-intensity statin and ezetimibe was compared with high-intensity statin monotherapy after a propensity score–matched analysis. The incidence of composite outcomes consisting of MI, stroke, and all-cause death and each component were analyzed.

Results

In moderate-intensity statin therapy with ezetimibe combination therapy, LDL-C (74 ± 37.9 mg/dL vs 80.8 ± 38.8 mg/dL, P < .001) and the incidence of composite outcomes were lower (hazard ratio 0.85, 95% CI 0.74-0.98) than those in high-intensity statin monotherapy. Meanwhile, no significant difference was observed in the LDL-C levels and composite outcomes between low-intensity statins with ezetimibe combination therapy and high-intensity statin monotherapy.

Conclusion

Adding ezetimibe to a moderate-intensity statin in patients with type 2 diabetes has a greater LDL-C–lowering effect and greater primary prevention of composite outcomes than that of high-intensity statin monotherapy.
Health-Related Quality of Life and Neuropsychological Outcome After EC-IC Bypass Revascularization in Adult Patients With Moyamoya Disease
Authors: Haas Patrick , Kittelberger Benjamin B. , Hurth Helene , Wang Sophie , Tellermann Jonas , Tatagiba Marcos , Khan Nadia , Roder Constantin
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Patients with Moyamoya disease (MMD) have an above-average incidence of neuropsychological impairment and psychiatric comorbidities such as depression. Prevalence and correlation with preoperative imaging findings were identified in previous studies, and a reduced health-related quality of life (HRQOL) has been shown. This study investigates changes in neuropsychological performance and HRQOL after revascularization.

METHODS:

Thirty-two adult patients with MMD (23 female, 9 male; mean age 39.1 year ±14.7) with revascularization were included in this retrospective cohort study, and their results of structured neuropsychological testing were analyzed preoperatively and 1 year postoperatively. Sensorimotor deficits assessed with the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale were considered to be possible confounders.

RESULTS:

Patients with preoperatively poor test results showed improvement in various items such as psychological well-being (95% CI [0.55-2.25], P = .002), vitality (95% CI [0.23-1.68], P = .007), general health perception (95% CI [0.09-1.44], P = .014), psychoticism (95% CI [−12.24 to −4.85], P < .001), and psychomotor processing speed (95% CI [0.10-1.14], P = .010), whereas the intensity of depression fell by a mean of 6.9 points (95% CI [−10.14 to −3.61], P < .001). For patients without preoperative neuropsychological or HRQOL deterioration, preservation of these functions without relevant worsening after revascularization was observed. Significant improvement in vitality, psychological well-being, psychoticism, psychomotor processing speed, and depression were also seen in patients with unchanged National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale.

CONCLUSION:

Chronic steno-occlusive cerebral hypoperfusion in patients with MMD not only may lead to neurological deficits but is also associated with neuropsychological impairment, reduced HRQOL, and increased depression. The results of this study show that patients with preoperative neuropsychological deterioration might benefit from revascularization surgery, whereas patients without preoperative impairment continue to remain stable postoperatively. Neuropsychological assessment should be routinely evaluated and considered a relevant variable when determining treatment for patients with MMD.
Morals and Ethics in Counterterrorism
Authors: Marsili Marco
Published: January 2024

Political leaders, philosophers, sociologists, historians, political scientists, law scholars and economists approach terrorism in diverse ways, especially its definition. Politicians assign the meaning to the term terrorism that best suits them. Political scientists analyze the actions of those in the geopolitical framework. Moral philosophers look at terrorism from the viewpoint of fairness. Historians make a comparative assessment of the phenomenon through its evolution over time, and scholars of law simply dissect counterterrorism measures and assess their consistency with customs and current legislation. Sociologists stress the importance of culture, social relationships and social interactions. Eventually, politicians and lawmakers are not immune to the influence of the common ethics and morals of their own societies and the uses and habits of their own cultures, including religious aspects. Morals and ethics relate to “right” and “wrong” conduct; the first provides guiding principles, and the latter refers to rules provided by an external source, e.g., codes of conduct in workplaces or principles in religions. While morals are concerned with principles of right and wrong, ethics are related to right and wrong conduct of an individual in a particular situation. Ethics, morals and religion are intertwined in the antithetical principles “good and evil.” This work aims to scrutinize the crucial concept of just and unjust war, and just and unjust combatants, and to elaborate on some critical moral and ethical elements within the modern understanding of the interplay between terrorism, counterterrorism, fundamental human rights, and international humanitarian law. Through the examination of all pertinent theoretical positions the paper seeks to shed light on the limits of the use of force and the justification of the violation of fundamental rights in the War on Terror.
A ‘Just Cause’ or ‘Just A Cause’: Perils of the Zero-sum Model of Moral Responsibility for War
Authors: Stanar Dragan
Published: January 2024

In this paper the author aims to explain the consequences of the implicit application of the zero-sum game model of distribution of moral responsibility for war, i.e., for causing war, within the context of the dominant perspective of modern-day ethics of war – Just War Theory. The main criterion of the jus ad bellum concept of Just War Theory, “just cause,” recognizes the possibility of only one “cause” of war, and every attempt to further analyze and investigate deeper causes of war is automatically perceived through the zero-sum lens, as an attempt to justify or excuse the unjust side in war. No such thing happens when analyzing other, extremely morally troubling and disturbing phenomena as we invest significant effort into attempting to explain evil without this effort ever being understood as a justification attempt. The author demonstrates how the described approach in Just War Theory prevents us from fully understanding war, and thus implicitly from how to normatively prescribe human actions in and regarding war. The author also asserts that this perspective actually represents a presupposition concerning the possibility of justness of war. The author concludes that, in order to fully understand war and properly morally evaluate it, ethics of war must adopt a non-zero-sum model of distribution of moral responsibility and acknowledge the existence of a wide variety of causes of war.
Discussion on Social Media Aesthetic War: Maurice Blanchot and the Establishment of Ethics
Authors: Šumilova Justina
Published: January 2024

This short discussion paper proposes a non-traditional view to ethics and war, and aims to highlight new perspectives on how we view and understand war. Images, images, images are everywhere in the virtual sphere of the internet, YouTube, ads, and social media. This process of expressing oneself via the virtual image accelerates the fight for the aesthetic virtual beauty when people are trying to create an image of glorified, ideal, and perfect life. This is a mode of fight which aims to narcissistically show off their grandiosity and desire for recognition, admiration, and fascination, fighting for the viewers and followers. Such mode of hedonistic desire seems to shun ethics away from the screen. However, Maurice Blanchot, a 20th century French philosopher, who was prone to denounce the issues of his contemporary time in a rather obscure and distant way, may give us the opportunity to understand this war of aesthetics in social media and ethics.
An Ethics of Sanctions? Attempt and Critique of the Moral Justification of Economic Sanctions
Authors: Ladurner Florian
Published: January 2024

In this article, I raise the question of whether economic sanctions are morally legal. I present the jus ad bellum principles and the Doctrine of Double Effect (DDE) as the theoretical basis for analyzing the ethical foundations of this political instrument. I show that economic sanctions are an instrument of war, that can be morally legitimized through the DDE and the just war principles. Using the example of the EU-sanctions against Russia I show how proponents of the DDE justify the use of economic sanctions and what negative side effects result from their application. From a critical perspective, I want to show that this kind of moral justification is wrong. My critique is based on the assumption that the individual intention of an acting person/government can be misdirected by various external factors. As the groupthink concept illustrates, dissenting opinions are neglected in the consensus-building process. In addition, advisors, experts and employees influence the opinion of government officials to a considerable extent. This leads to the formation of specific moral concepts. This is particularly evident regarding the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine. The Russian government has created its own moral code based on historical events, individual opinions and fantasies of maintaining power. This is contrary to the moral codes of Western states. The difference in moral concepts also results in different intentions to act. These different views make it difficult to evaluate sanctioning procedures as morally good or bad. Consequently, the mere focus on intention is insufficient as an assessment standard for the moral status of an action.
Military Ethics Education – What Is It, How Should It Be Done, and Why Is It Important?
Authors: Whetham David
Published: January 2024

This paper explores the topic of military ethics, what we mean by that term, what it covers, how it is understood, and how it is taught. It suggests that the unifying factor that makes this a coherent subject beyond individual national interpretations of it is the core idea of military professionalism. The paper draws out the distinction between training and education and draws on research conducted by a number of different people and agencies, including the International Committee of the Red Cross, to establish what factors contribute to effective pedagogy and the inculcation of appropriate attitudes and behaviours. The paper concludes by looking at the way military ethics contributes to military outcomes from protecting civilians and the vulnerable to building resilience in our own military personnel to protect their mental health, through to the strategic costs of losing the moral high ground if behaviour is seen to fall short of that expected from military professionals.
The Nature of War
Authors: Psarros Nikolaos
Published: January 2024

The traditional definition of war given by classical authors is, that war is a violent conflict between sovereigns. This means that war cannot be outlawed by any higher authority, since the sovereign is the uppermost authority upon the lives of the persons that are subject to them. Only the sovereign has the right and the power to forbid the violent resolution of conflicts among their subjects, and as sovereign they are not subject to any higher worldly power, but only to the power of God. The obligations to God are for the most classical authors not of legal nature but constitute the realm of morality. Thus, the main question for the classical authors on war theory is the clarification of the moral conditions that justify a sovereign to wage war against another sovereign, the so-called theory of just war. Since the classical authors subordinate the concept of war under the concept of justice, the theory of just war includes reflections about the proper means of conducting a war from the point of view of justice. In other words, the theory of just war also formulates criteria for such acts that are considered as war crimes. In this essay I will not challenge the theory of just war itself, but the traditional definition of war in terms of exertion of legitimate violence. My alternative definition will be given in the third section of the essay, and relies on the Platonic concept of peace, and on the Aristotelian concepts of privation and analogy. I think that violence is not a constitutive characteristic of war, but the conceptual, i.e., logical consequence of its definition. In other words, the state of war can be declared and persist without any acts of violence. The use of violence is justified by the manifestation of the state of war.