bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lendo manuscritos de Marcel Proust
Authors: Ignácio Guilherme
Published: April 2024

O artigo discute questões de análise e interpretação de textos do escritor francês Marcel Proust, à luz do trabalho com seus manuscritos.
Make Me a Picture of the Future: Massinissa Selmani's 1000 Socialist Villages (2015)
Authors: Llorens Natasha Marie
Published: April 2024

Contemporary artist Massinissa Selmani's installation 1000 Socialist Villages (2015) explores how a rural land distribution and urban planning initiative in Algeria known as “1000 Socialist Villages” dissipated into rumor. The analysis relies on Djaffar Lesbet's first-hand accounts of and extensive research on the 1000 Socialist Villages, as his archives and his testimony were crucial to Selmani's artistic research process. Through close reading of Selmani's aesthetic references to the classic school notebook used during the socialist period in Algeria (1965–1979) and by drawing on Karima Lazali and Daho Djerbal's work on literature and history Algeria, the paper argues that Selmani's installation portrays the unstable character of historiography in Algeria in the post-Liberation period, thereby challenging positivist approaches to decolonial reparation.
Changes in high-frequency aperiodic 1/f slope and periodic activity reflect post-stimulus functional inhibition in the visual cortex
Authors: Manyukhina Viktoriya O. , Prokofyev Andrey O. , Obukhova Tatiana S. , Stroganova Tatiana A. , Orekhova Elena V.
Published: April 2024

It has been shown that cessation of intensive sensory stimulation is associated with a transient increase in functional inhibition in the sensory cortical areas. However, the electrophysiological correlates of this post-stimulus inhibition in the human brain have not been thoroughly investigated. To investigate post-stimulus inhibition, we analyzed magnetoencephalogram (MEG) recorded at rest and after cessation of visual stimulation of varying intensity (high-contrast gratings drifting at a slow, medium, or high rate) in 25 healthy women aged 18–40 years. We analyzed condition- and intensity-related changes in MEG parameters sensitive to functional inhibition: periodic alpha-beta power, peak alpha frequency (PAF), and 1/f aperiodic slope. We also investigated the association of these parameters with sensory sensitivity and avoidance assessed by a questionnaire. To evaluate the influence of hormonal status on the studied parameters, participants were examined twice, during the follicular and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle (MC). Regardless of the MC phase, increasing drift rate of visual gratings resulted in a proportional increase of post-stimulus posterior alpha-beta power, PAF, and a negative shift of the aperiodic (1/f) slope of the power spectrum in the high-frequency range. Compared to rest, the post-stimulus periods were characterized by higher PAF, more negative 1/f slope in posterior cortical areas, and a widespread increase in beta power. While condition- and drift-rate-dependent modulations of alpha-beta power and 1/f slope were correlated, changes in PAF did not correlate with either of them. A greater intensity-dependent increase in visual alpha-beta power predicted higher subjective sensory sensitivity/avoidance, suggesting stronger regulatory top-down modulation of the visual cortex in individuals with heightened sensitivity. Our results show that several MEG parameters concordantly indicate a post-stimulus enhancement of inhibition that is proportional to the intensity of the preceding visual stimulation. While post-stimulus changes in alpha-beta power and 1/f slope may share some common mechanisms, changes in PAF reflect a distinct aspect of inhibitory regulation. Our results inform potential inhibition-based biomarkers for clinical and translational research.
Catalogue of species of the subgenus Afromorgus Scholtz, 1986 (Coleoptera: Trogidae: Omorginae) known from the Oriental and Palaearctic Regions, including a description of one new species from the Deccan Plateau in India
Authors: KALAWATE APARNA S. , STRÜMPHER WERNER P.
Published: April 2024

In this paper, we describe and illustrate another species of the family Trogidae, Omorgus (Afromorgus) moreshwar Kalawate & Strümpher, new species from the western part of Maharashtra State in India. In addition, a catalogue of all 22 valid species with their available synonyms of the subgenus Afromorgus Scholtz, 1986 known from the Oriental and Palaearctic Regions is presented. For each species we report type depository, type locality, chresonymy and distribution. Lectotypes are designated for the following species: Trox haagi Harold, 1872 (now Omorgus (A.) haagi), Trox indicus Harold, 1872 (now Omorgus (A.) indicus) and Trox lobicollis Arrow, 1927 (now Omorgus (A.) lobicollis). Omorgus (A.) desertorum (Harold, 1872), valid species, is redescribed and raised from a subspecies of Omorgus (A.) niloticus (Harold, 1872).
A new species of Conocephalus (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae: Conocephalinae) from Argentina with extraordinarily broad-band ultrasound calling song
Authors: RUBIO LUCAS , BRAUN HOLGER
Published: April 2024

Conocephalus tuyu sp. nov. belonging to Xenocerculus subgen. nov., is described from grassland among the sand dunes of the Atlantic coast of Buenos Aires Province. The unique species can be recognized by its extremely short wings, the reddish brown dorsal band, and the curious male cerci with a very long, inward-pointing spine at the tip. The entirely ultrasound calling song of the male shows an extraordinarily broad spectrum reaching 90 kHz. Ecology and possible distribution are discussed.
Cryptotermes cubicoceps (Emerson, 1925) (Isoptera: Kalotermitidae), redescription of a lost Guyanese termite
Authors: SCHEFFRAHN RUDOLF H.
Published: April 2024

N/A
Assessing Flash Characteristics in Lightning-Initiated Wildfire Events between 1995 and 2020 within the Contiguous United States
Authors: Schultz Christopher J. , Bitzer Phillip M. , Antia Michael , Case Jonathan L. , Hain Christopher R.
Published: April 2024

Twenty-six years of lightning data were paired with over 68 000 lightning-initiated wildfire (LIW) reports to understand lightning flash characteristics responsible for ignition in between 1995 and 2020. Results indicate that 92% of LIW were started by negative cloud-to-ground (CG) lightning flashes and 57% were single stroke flashes. Moreover, 62% of LIW reports did not have a positive CG within 10 km of the start location, contrary to the science literature’s suggestion that positive CG flashes are a dominant fire-starting mechanism. Nearly ⅓ of wildfire events were holdovers, meaning 1 or more days elapsed between lightning occurrence and fire report. However, fires that were reported less than a day after lightning occurrence statistically burned more acreage. Peak current was not found to be a statistically significant delineator between fire starters and non–fire starters for negative CGs but was for positive CGs. Results highlighted the need for reassessing the role of positive CG lightning and subsequently long-continuing current in wildfire ignition started by lightning. One potential outcome of this study’s results is the development of real-time tools to identify ignition potential during lightning events to aid in fire mitigation efforts.
Reconceptualizing autonomic function testing in migraine: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Pavelić Antun R. , Zebenholzer Karin , Wöber Christian
Published: April 2024

Background

Autonomic nervous system (ANS) testing has aided in our ability to evaluate autonomic dysfunction in migraine patients. We reviewed the literature in multiple databases which investigate ANS function in migraine patients and healthy subjects.

Methods

This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the respective deep breathing, Valsalva manoeuvre, orthostatic and isometric challenge results, using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) and Meta-analyses of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) statements.

Results

Seven articles met all inclusion criteria. Fixed-effects meta-analysis showed migraine patients (n = 424), collectively, had lower interictal autonomic test results compared with healthy controls (n = 268). In detail, this was true for the standardized mean difference (g) of deep breathing (g= -0.32; 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.48, -0.16), orthostatic challenge (g= -0.28; 95% CI -0.44, -0.13) and isometric challenge (g= -0.55; 95% CI -0.71, -0.39) and for the difference of means (MD) of the Valsalva ratio (MD = -0.17; 95% CI -0.23, -0.10).

Conclusions

Interictal ANS dysfunction can be identified in migraine patients when compared to healthy controls. These findings indicate the importance to evaluate ANS function in migraine patients - especially, as migraine-specific prophylactic therapies (such as anti-calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) antibodies) may affect the function of the ANS.
Mutation mapping of a variegated EMS tomato reveals an FtsH-like protein precursor potentially causing patches of four phenotype classes in the leaves with distinctive internal morphology
Authors: Dechkrong Punyavee , Srima Sornsawan , Sukkhaeng Siriphan , Utkhao Winai , Thanomchat Piyanan , de Jong Hans , Tongyoo Pumipat
Published: April 2024

Background

Leaf variegation is an intriguing phenomenon observed in many plant species. However, questions remain on its mechanisms causing patterns of different colours. In this study, we describe a tomato plant detected in an M2 population of EMS mutagenised seeds, showing variegated leaves with sectors of dark green (DG), medium green (MG), light green (LG) hues, and white (WH). Cells and tissues of these classes, along with wild-type tomato plants, were studied by light, fluorescence, and transmission electron microscopy. We also measured chlorophyll a/b and carotene and quantified the variegation patterns with a machine-learning image analysis tool. We compared the genomes of pooled plants with wild-type-like and mutant phenotypes in a segregating F2 population to reveal candidate genes responsible for the variegation.

Results

A genetic test demonstrated a recessive nuclear mutation caused the variegated phenotype. Cross-sections displayed distinct anatomy of four-leaf phenotypes, suggesting a stepwise mesophyll degradation. DG sectors showed large spongy layers, MG presented intercellular spaces in palisade layers, and LG displayed deformed palisade cells. Electron photomicrographs of those mesophyll cells demonstrated a gradual breakdown of the chloroplasts. Chlorophyll a/b and carotene were proportionally reduced in the sectors with reduced green pigments, whereas white sectors have hardly any of these pigments. The colour segmentation system based on machine-learning image analysis was able to convert leaf variegation patterns into binary images for quantitative measurements. The bulk segregant analysis of pooled wild-type-like and variegated progeny enabled the identification of SNP and InDels via bioinformatic analysis. The mutation mapping bioinformatic pipeline revealed a region with three candidate genes in chromosome 4, of which the FtsH-like protein precursor (LOC100037730) carries an SNP that we consider the causal variegated phenotype mutation. Phylogenetic analysis shows the candidate is evolutionary closest to the Arabidopsis VAR1. The synonymous mutation created by the SNP generated a miRNA binding site, potentially disrupting the photoprotection mechanism and thylakoid development, resulting in leaf variegation.

Conclusion

We described the histology, anatomy, physiology, and image analysis of four classes of cell layers and chloroplast degradation in a tomato plant with a variegated phenotype. The genomics and bioinformatics pipeline revealed a VAR1-related FtsH mutant, the first of its kind in tomato variegation phenotypes. The miRNA binding site of the mutated SNP opens the way to future studies on its epigenetic mechanism underlying the variegation.
Ultrasound-guided stellate ganglion block benefits the postoperative recovery of patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal surgery: a single-center, double-blinded, randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Lu Di-han , Xu Xuan-xian , Zhou Rui , Wang Chen , Lan Liang-tian , Yang Xiao-yu , Feng Xia
Published: April 2024

Background

With the increasing prevalence of colorectal cancer (CRC), optimizing perioperative management is of paramount importance. This study investigates the potential of stellate ganglion block (SGB), known for its stress response-mediating effects, in improving postoperative recovery. We postulate that preoperative SGB may enhance the postoperative recovery of patients undergoing laparoscopic CRC surgery.

Methods

We conducted a randomized controlled trial of 57 patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery at a single center. Patients, aged 18–70 years, were randomly assigned to receive either preoperative SGB or standard care. SGB group patients received 10 mL of 0.2% ropivacaine under ultrasound guidance prior to surgery. Primary outcome was time to flatus, with secondary outcomes encompassing time to defecation, lying in bed time, visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, hospital stays, patient costs, intraoperative and postoperative complications, and 3-year mortality. A per-protocol analysis was used.

Results

Twenty-nine patients in the SGB group and 28 patients in the control group were analyzed. The SGB group exhibited a significantly shorter time to flatus (mean [SD] hour, 20.52 [9.18] vs. 27.93 [11.69]; p = 0.012), accompanied by decreased plasma cortisol levels (mean [SD], postoperatively, 4.01 [3.42] vs 7.75 [3.13], p = 0.02). Notably, postoperative pain was effectively managed, evident by lower VAS scores at 6 h post-surgery in SGB-treated patients (mean [SD], 4.70 [0.91] vs 5.35 [1.32]; p = 0.040). Furthermore, patients in the SGB group experienced reduced hospital stay length (mean [SD], day, 6.61 [1.57] vs 8.72 [5.13], p = 0.042).

Conclusions

Preoperative SGB emerges as a promising approach to enhance the postoperative recovery of patients undergoing laparoscopic CRC surgery.

Clinical trial registration

ChiCTR1900028404, Principal investigator: Xia Feng, Date of registration: 12/20/2019.
Navigating the future of diabetes: innovative nomogram models for predicting all-cause mortality risk in diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Wu Sensen , Wang Hui , Pan Dikang , Guo Julong , Zhang Fan , Ning Yachan , Gu Yongquan , Guo Lianrui
Published: April 2024

Objective

This study aims to establish and validate a nomogram model for the all-cause mortality rate in patients with diabetic nephropathy (DN).

Methods

We analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning from 2007 to 2016. A random split of 7:3 was performed between the training and validation sets. Utilizing follow-up data until December 31, 2019, we examined the all-cause mortality rate. Cox regression models and Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression models were employed in the training cohort to develop a nomogram for predicting all-cause mortality in the studied population. Finally, various validation methods were employed to assess the predictive performance of the nomogram, and Decision Curve Analysis (DCA) was conducted to evaluate the clinical utility of the nomogram.

Results

After the results of LASSO regression models and Cox multivariate analyses, a total of 8 variables were selected, gender, age, poverty income ratio, heart failure, body mass index, albumin, blood urea nitrogen and serum uric acid. A nomogram model was built based on these predictors. The C-index values in training cohort of 3-year, 5-year, 10-year mortality rates were 0.820, 0.807, and 0.798. In the validation cohort, the C-index values of 3-year, 5-year, 10-year mortality rates were 0.773, 0.788, and 0.817, respectively. The calibration curve demonstrates satisfactory consistency between the two cohorts.

Conclusion

The newly developed nomogram proves to be effective in predicting the all-cause mortality risk in patients with diabetic nephropathy, and it has undergone robust internal validation.
Bronchiectasis-associated infections and outcomes in a large, geographically diverse electronic health record cohort in the United States
Authors: Dean Samantha G , Blakney Rebekah A , Ricotta Emily E , Chalmers James D , Kadri Sameer S , Olivier Kenneth N , Prevots D Rebecca
Published: April 2024

Background

Bronchiectasis is a pulmonary disease characterized by irreversible dilation of the bronchi and recurring respiratory infections. Few studies have described the microbiology and prevalence of infections in large patient populations outside of specialized tertiary care centers.

Methods

We used the Cerner HealthFacts Electronic Health Record database to characterize the nature, burden, and frequency of pulmonary infections among persons with bronchiectasis. Chronic infections were defined based on organism-specific guidelines.

Results

We identified 7,749 patients who met our incident bronchiectasis case definition. In this study population, the organisms with the highest rates of isolate prevalence were Pseudomonas aeruginosa with 937 (12%) individuals, Staphylococcus aureus with 502 (6%), Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) with 336 (4%), and Aspergillus sp. with 288 (4%). Among persons with at least one isolate of each respective pathogen, 219 (23%) met criteria for chronic P. aeruginosa colonization, 74 (15%) met criteria for S. aureus chronic colonization, 101 (30%) met criteria for MAC chronic infection, and 50 (17%) met criteria for Aspergillus sp. chronic infection. Of 5,795 persons with at least two years of observation, 1,860 (32%) had a bronchiectasis exacerbation and 3,462 (60%) were hospitalized within two years of bronchiectasis diagnoses. Among patients with chronic respiratory infections, the two-year occurrence of exacerbations was 53% and for hospitalizations was 82%.

Conclusions

Patients with bronchiectasis experiencing chronic respiratory infections have high rates of hospitalization.
Dental patients as partners in promoting quality and safety: a qualitative exploratory study
Authors: Obadan-Udoh Enihomo , Sundararajan Vyshiali , Sanchez Gustavo A. , Howard Rachel , Chandrupatla Siddardha , Worley Donald
Published: April 2024

Objective

Active patient involvement in promoting quality and safety is a priority for healthcare. We investigated how dental patients perceive their role as partners in promoting quality and safety across various dental care settings.

Methods

Focus group sessions were conducted at three dental practice settings: an academic dental center, a community dental clinic, and a large group private practice, from October 2018-July 2019. Patients were recruited through flyers or word-of-mouth invitations. Each session lasted 2.5 h and patients completed a demographic and informational survey at the beginning. Audio recordings were transcribed, and a hybrid thematic analysis was performed by two independent reviewers using Dedoose.

Results

Forty-seven participants took part in eight focus group sessions; 70.2% were females and 38.3% were aged 45-64 years. Results were organized into three major themes: patients’ overall perception of dental quality and safety; patients’ reaction to an adverse dental event; and patients’ role in promoting quality and safety. Dental patients were willing to participate in promoting quality and safety by careful provider selection, shared decision-making, self-advocacy, and providing post-treatment provider evaluations. Their reactions towards adverse dental events varied based on the type of dental practice setting. Some factors that influenced a patient’s overall perception of dental quality and safety included provider credentials, communication skills, cleanliness, and durability of dental treatment.

Conclusion

The type of dental practice setting affected patients’ desire to work as partners in promoting dental quality and safety. Although patients acknowledged having an important role to play in their care, their willingness to participate depended on their relationship with their provider and their perception of provider receptivity to patient feedback.
A pedicled buccal periosteal flap for the closure of oro-antral fistula
Authors: Ibrahim Marwa T. , Gharieb Eslam A. , Sheta Mona S.
Published: April 2024

Background

An oroantral fistula is a communication between the maxillary antrum and oral cavity. This pathological communication is formed mainly due to dental extraction of maxillary premolars and molars. Adequate management should include closing the oroantral fistula and eliminating sinus infections to prevent recurrence and sinusitis.

Purpose

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of using the pedicled buccal periosteal flap for closing an oroantral fistula without changing the native intraoral structure.

Patients & Methods

Patients with oroantral fistulas were included in this study. The patients were examined clinically by Valsalva test and cheek-blowing test, the hole was probed, and the extent of the underlying bone defect was determined radiographically using computed tomography preoperatively. All patients underwent surgical closure of oroantral fistula using a pedicled buccal periosteal flap.

Results

All 10 patients obtained satisfactory results with marked improvement in the function of the maxillary sinus and complete healing of oroantral fistula with no recurrence except in Case No. 5, who had a recurrence of the oroantral fistula, also there was no statistically significant difference between the vestibular depth preoperatively and postoperatively.

Conclusion

A pedicled buccal periosteal flap is a novel technique for oroantral fistula closure as it preserves vestibular depth with a tension-free closure flap and harbors the advantages of the regenerative potential of the periosteum.

Registration date

14/8/2023

Registration number

NCT05987943
Using mobile health in primiparous women: effect on awareness, attitude and choice of delivery type, semi-experimental
Authors: Moghbeli Fatemeh , Setoodefar Masood , Mazaheri Habibi Mohammad Reza , Abbaszadeh Zohreh , Keikhay Moghadam Hanieh , Salari Sajedeh , Gholamhosseini Leila , Fallahnezhad Meysam , Fatemi Aghda Seyed Ali
Published: April 2024

Background

One of the reasons for the increase in cesarean section is the lack of knowledge of mothers in choosing the type of delivery. The present study aimed to determine the effect of education through pregnancy application during pregnancy on awareness and attitude and choice of delivery type in primiparous women at Shahid Alavi Specialized Medical Center clinic in Mashhad.

Methods

This study was a semi-experimental type. Seventy primiparous pregnant women who had no restrictions for birth was selected. Sampling was randomized and purpose-based. The data collection tool was a questionnaire. The starting time of the training was considered from the end of the 27th week of pregnancy and continued with regular intervals until the end of the pregnancy. The questionnaires were completed once before the training and once after the training as a pre-test and post-test by the research units. SPSS software (version 26) and MacNemar test and descriptive statistics were used for data analysis.

Results

According to the results of the MacNemar test, a significant statistical difference was seen between women’s knowledge and attitude after the training compared to before (p-value < 0.01). Choosing the type of birth was preferred before and after the training. But following the performance of women showed that only 62.86% of them chose natural birth. In fact, before the training, 40% and after 72.86% of women had chosen birth.

Conclusion

Pregnancy education and application during pregnancy is effective in reducing the choice of cesarean section, so this application with the topic of birth and cesarean section has improved the level of attitude and also the positive attitude of pregnant women towards birth. Creation of facilities and promotion of different methods of painless childbirth and training of maternity staff to perform birth is expected.
Can small bowel obstruction during pregnancy be treated with conservative management? A review
Authors: Ling Xiao Shuang , Anthony Brian Tian Wei Cheng , Augustin Goran , Catena Fausto
Published: April 2024

Background

Small bowel obstruction can occur during pregnancy, which, if missed, can lead to dire consequences for both the mother and foetus. Management of this condition usually requires surgical intervention. However, only a small number of patients are treated conservatively.

Objective

The objective was to review the literature to determine the feasibility of conservative management for small bowel obstruction.

Methods

A systematic search of the PubMed and Embase databases was performed using the keywords [small bowel obstruction AND pregnancy]. All original articles were then reviewed and included in this review if deemed suitable.

Conclusion

Conservative management of small bowel obstruction in pregnant women is feasible if the patient is clinically stable and after ruling out bowel ischaemia and closed-loop obstruction.
Compound Shenma Jingfu granule alleviates cerebral ischemia via HIF-1α-mediated promotion of angiogenesis
Authors: He Ruihua , Xu Yi , Liu Jingxue , Liu Jing , Chen Jing , Wang Xufang , Qiu Lei , Huang Jin
Published: April 2024

Background

Shenma Jingfu Granule, a traditional Chinese medicine formula, has been used clinically for the treatment of cerebral circulation insufficiency. However, the mechanism involved in alleviating cerebral ischemia has not yet been fully elucidated.

Methods

An integrated approach involving network pharmacology and transcriptomics was utilized to clarify the potential mechanisms of SMJF Granule. Molecular docking and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) were employed to identify potential targets and ingredients of SMJF Granule. The anti-CI effect of SMJF Granule was determined on the middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model by using hematoxylin–eosin (H&E) and Nisslʼs staining, as well as triphenyl tetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining, and the potential targets involved in the mechanisms were validated by RT-qPCR and western blotting.

Results

Integrated analysis revealed the mechanism of SMJF Granule intervening in CI injury might be related to the HIF-1 signaling pathway and angiogenesis. Molecular docking and SPR assays demonstrated robust binding interactions between key compounds like salvianolic acid A and naringenin with the core target HIF-1α protein. The experiment confirmed that SMJF Granule lowered neurological scores, diminished infarct volume, and alleviated histopathological changes in vivo. The possible mechanism of SMJF Granule was due to regulating HIF-1 pathway, which contributed to up-regulating expression of VEGF and vWF in the penumbral region, showing a significant promotion of angiogenesis.

Conclusion

SMJF Granule promoted angiogenesis through HIF-1α pathway, thereby alleviating cerebral ischemia injury. In addition, our findings provide some evidence that SMJF Granule is a candidate compound for further investigation in treating CI in the clinical.

Graphical Abstract
Universal, school-based transdiagnostic interventions to promote mental health and emotional wellbeing: a systematic review
Authors: Wang Peng , Wang Zhaoqi , Qiu Shuiwei
Published: April 2024

Objective

This systematic review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of universal school-based transdiagnostic interventions in promoting the mental health of children and adolescents. It compares and discusses interventions targeting the prevention of mental disorders versus the promotion of mental health. Additionally, the roles of teachers and psychologists as intervention conductors are examined.

Methods

A comprehensive search of the Psycinfo, Pubmed, and Web of Science databases was conducted without any time restrictions to identify relevant literature on universal school-based transdiagnostic interventions promoting children and adolescents' mental health.

Results and discussion

The findings reveal that universal school-based transdiagnostic promotion/prevention programs have a small to medium overall effect size. These interventions demonstrate a broad coverage of different aspects of children and adolescents' mental health. However, the relative effectiveness of teacher-led versus psychologist-led interventions remains unclear. Interventions focused on preventing mental disorders exhibit a higher effect size, albeit on a narrower range of mental health aspects for children and adolescents.

Significance

This study enhances our understanding of universal school-based transdiagnostic interventions and their impact on children and adolescents' mental health. Further research is needed to elucidate the comparative efficacy of teacher-led and psychologist-led interventions and to explore the specific dimensions of mental health targeted by these interventions.
A paclitaxel-hyaluronan conjugate (ONCOFID-P-B™) in patients with BCG-unresponsive carcinoma in situ of the bladder: a dynamic assessment of the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Tosi Anna , Parisatto Beatrice , Gaffo Enrico , Bortoluzzi Stefania , Rosato Antonio
Published: April 2024

Background

The intravesical instillation of the paclitaxel-hyaluronan conjugate ONCOFID-P-B™ in patients with bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG)-unresponsive bladder carcinoma in situ (CIS; NCT04798703 phase I study), induced 75 and 40% of complete response (CR) after 12 weeks of intensive phase and 12 months of maintenance phase, respectively. The aim of this study was to provide a detailed description of the tumor microenvironment (TME) of ONCOFID-P-B™-treated BCG-unresponsive bladder CIS patients enrolled in the NCT04798703 phase I study, in order to identify predictive biomarkers of response.

Methods

The composition and spatial interactions of tumor-infiltrating immune cells and the expression of the most relevant hyaluronic acid (HA) receptors on cancer cells, were analyzed in biopsies from the 20 patients enrolled in the NCT04798703 phase I study collected before starting ONCOFID-P-B™ therapy (baseline), and after the intensive and the maintenance phases. Clinical data were correlated with cell densities, cell distribution and cell interactions. Associations between immune populations or HA receptors expression and outcome were analyzed using univariate Cox regression and log-rank analysis.

Results

In baseline biopsies, patients achieving CR after the intensive phase had a lower density of intra-tumoral CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL), but also fewer interactions between CTL and macrophages or T-regulatory cells, as compared to non-responders (NR). NR expressed higher levels of the HA receptors CD44v6, ICAM-1 and RHAMM. The intra-tumoral macrophage density was positively correlated with the expression of the pro-metastatic and aggressive variant CD44v6, and the combined score of intra-tumoral macrophage density and CD44v6 expression had an AUC of 0.85 (95% CI 0.68–1.00) for patient response prediction.

Conclusions

The clinical response to ONCOFID-P-B™ in bladder CIS likely relies on several components of the TME, and the combined evaluation of intra-tumoral macrophages density and CD44v6 expression is a potentially new predictive biomarker for patient response. Overall, our data allow to advance a potential rationale for combinatorial treatments targeting the immune infiltrate such as immune checkpoint inhibitors, to make bladder CIS more responsive to ONCOFID-P-B™ treatment.
Who was the first to visualize the malaria parasite?
Authors: Drouin Emmanuel , Hautecoeur Patrick , Markus Miles
Published: April 2024

Human malaria, an ancient tropical disease, is caused by infection with protozoan parasites belonging to the genus Plasmodium and is transmitted by female mosquitoes of the genus Anopheles. Our understanding of human malaria parasites began officially in 1880 with their discovery in the blood of malaria patients by Charles Louis Alphonse Lavéran (1845–1922), a French army officer working in Algeria. A claim for priority was made by Philipp Friedrich Hermann Klencke (1813–1881) in 1843, who wrote a chapter entitled: “Marvellous parallelism between the manifestations of vertigo and the presence of animalcule vacuoles in living blood.” We should not lose sight of this old controversy, which is rarely mentioned in historical reviews on malaria.

Graphical Abstract
Anxiety and depression symptoms in adolescents and young adults with juvenile idiopathic arthritis: results of an outpatient screening
Authors: Milatz Florian , Klotsche Jens , Niewerth Martina , Sengler Claudia , Windschall Daniel , Kallinich Tilmann , Dressler Frank , Trauzeddel Ralf , Holl Reinhard W. , Foeldvari Ivan , Brück Normi , Temming Svenja , Hospach Toni , Warschburger Petra , Berendes Rainer , Erbis Gabriele , Kuemmerle-Deschner Jasmin B. , Weller-Heinemann Frank , Haas Johannes-Peter , Müller-Stierlin Annabel S. , Mutter Agnes , Meissner Thomas , Baumeister Harald , Minden Kirsten
Published: April 2024

Background

Previous studies have shown that growing up with rheumatic conditions can fuel dissatisfaction and psychological distress, which in turn affects disease self-management and treatment adherence. Primary objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of anxiety and depression symptoms in adolescents and young adults (AYA) with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and to identify correlates of conspicuous screening results.

Methods

Initiated as part of the COACH multicenter observational study, outpatients aged 12 to 21 years participating in the National Pediatric Rheumatological Database (NPRD) were prospectively screened for mental health using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and the Generalised Anxiety Disorder Scale-7 (GAD-7).

Results

Data from 1,150 adolescents with JIA (mean age 15.6 ± 2.2 years; mean disease duration 7.2 ± 4.9 years, 69% female, 43% oligoarthritis, 26% polyarthritis) were analysed. Overall, 32.7% (n = 316) of AYA showed conspicuous screening results, of whom 30.4% reported clinically relevant suicidal or self-harm thoughts. About 19% of screened patients showed moderate to severe depressive or anxious symptoms. AYA with conspicuous screening results were older (15.8 vs. 15.2 years; p < 0.0001), more often female (81% vs. 64%; p < 0.0001) and more often overweight (25% vs. 17%; p = 0.006). They had higher disease activity (physician global assessment on NRS 0–10; 1.7 vs. 1.2; p < 0.0001), more functional limitations (CHAQ; 0.44 vs. 0.14; <0.0001) and rated their health status worse (NRS 0–10; 3.5 vs. 1.8; p < 0.0001) than AYA with inconspicuous screening results. Females (OR 2.33 [CI 1.53–3.56]; p < 0.0001), older age (OR 1.09 [CI 1.01–1.18]; p = 0.026), patients with more functional limitations (OR 3.36 [CI 1.98–5.72]; p < 0.0001), and patients with worse subjective health status (OR 1.17 [CI 1.07–1.27]; p < 0.0001) were more likely to have a conspicuous screening result. Regular sports participation was associated with a lower likelihood of conspicuous screening result (OR 0.69 [CI 0.49–0.98]; p = 0.039).

Conclusions

A large-scale outpatient screening of AYA with JIA in Germany shows a high prevalence of anxiety and depression symptoms. The need for routine screening for early detection of mental health problems became apparent.
Hypoglycemia during hyperosmolar hyperglycemic crises is associated with long-term mortality
Authors: González-Vidal Tomás , Lambert Carmen , García Ana Victoria , Villa-Fernández Elsa , Pujante Pedro , Ares-Blanco Jessica , Menéndez Torre Edelmiro , Delgado-Álvarez Elías
Published: April 2024

Background

Previous research has indicated that hypoglycemia during hospitalization is a predictor of unfavorable outcomes in patients with diabetes. However, no studies have examined the long-term impact of hypoglycemia in adults admitted for hyperglycemic crises. The study was aimed to investigate the long-term implications of hypoglycemia during hyperosmolar hyperglycemic crises, particularly in terms of all-cause mortality.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included 170 patients (82 men [48.2%], median age 72 years) admitted to a university hospital for hyperosmolar hyperglycemic crises, including pure hyperosmolar hyperglycemic states and hyperosmolar diabetic ketoacidoses. We separately investigated the prognostic significance of hypoglycemia on mortality during the initial intravenous insulin therapy phase and during the later subcutaneous insulin therapy phase, both during hospitalization and in the long term (median follow-up, 652 days; range 2–3460 days).

Results

Both hypoglycemia during the initial intravenous insulin therapy phase (observed in 26.5% of patients) and hypoglycemia during the later subcutaneous insulin therapy phase (observed in 52.7% of patients) were associated with long-term mortality. After adjusting for potential confounders, hypoglycemia during the initial intravenous insulin therapy phase remained associated with mortality (hazard ratio 2.10, 95% CI 1.27–3.46, p = 0.004).

Conclusions

Hypoglycemia during hyperosmolar hyperglycemic crises is a marker of long-term mortality, especially when it occurs during the initial intravenous insulin therapy phase.
Polycomb repressive complex 2 and its core component EZH2: potential targeted therapeutic strategies for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Cheng Yuxi , Song Zhengzheng , Fang Xiaodan , Tang Zhangui
Published: April 2024

The polycomb group (PcG) comprises a set of proteins that exert epigenetic regulatory effects and play crucial roles in diverse biological processes, ranging from pluripotency and development to carcinogenesis. Among these proteins, enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) stands out as a catalytic component of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), which plays a role in regulating the expression of homologous (Hox) genes and initial stages of x chromosome inactivation. In numerous human cancers, including head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), EZH2 is frequently overexpressed or activated and has been identified as a negative prognostic factor. Notably, EZH2 emerges as a significant gene involved in regulating the STAT3/HOTAIR axis, influencing HNSCC proliferation, differentiation, and promoting metastasis by modulating related oncogenes in oral cancer. Currently, various small molecule compounds have been developed as inhibitors specifically targeting EZH2 and have gained approval for treating refractory tumors. In this review, we delve into the epigenetic regulation mediated by EZH2/PRC2 in HNSCC, with a specific focus on exploring the potential roles and mechanisms of EZH2, its crucial contribution to targeted drug therapy, and its association with cancer markers and epithelial–mesenchymal transition. Furthermore, we aim to unravel its potential as a therapeutic strategy for oral squamous cell carcinoma.
Substantial viral diversity in bats and rodents from East Africa: insights into evolution, recombination, and cocirculation
Authors: Wang Daxi , Yang Xinglou , Ren Zirui , Hu Ben , Zhao Hailong , Yang Kaixin , Shi Peibo , Zhang Zhipeng , Feng Qikai , Nawenja Carol Vannesa , Obanda Vincent , Robert Kityo , Nalikka Betty , Waruhiu Cecilia Njeri , Ochola Griphin Ochieng , Onyuok Samson Omondi , Ochieng Harold , Li Bei , Zhu Yan , Si Haorui , Yin Jiefang , Kristiansen Karsten , Jin Xin , Xu Xun , Xiao Minfeng , Agwanda Bernard , Ommeh Sheila , Li Junhua , Shi Zheng-Li
Published: April 2024

Background

Zoonotic viruses cause substantial public health and socioeconomic problems worldwide. Understanding how viruses evolve and spread within and among wildlife species is a critical step when aiming for proactive identification of viral threats to prevent future pandemics. Despite the many proposed factors influencing viral diversity, the genomic diversity and structure of viral communities in East Africa are largely unknown.

Results

Using 38.3 Tb of metatranscriptomic data obtained via ultradeep sequencing, we screened vertebrate-associated viromes from 844 bats and 250 rodents from Kenya and Uganda collected from the wild. The 251 vertebrate-associated viral genomes of bats (212) and rodents (39) revealed the vast diversity, host-related variability, and high geographic specificity of viruses in East Africa. Among the surveyed viral families, Coronaviridae and Circoviridae showed low host specificity, high conservation of replication-associated proteins, high divergence among viral entry proteins, and frequent recombination. Despite major dispersal limitations, recurrent mutations, cocirculation, and occasional gene flow contribute to the high local diversity of viral genomes.

Conclusions

The present study not only shows the landscape of bat and rodent viromes in this zoonotic hotspot but also reveals genomic signatures driven by the evolution and dispersal of the viral community, laying solid groundwork for future proactive surveillance of emerging zoonotic pathogens in wildlife.
Sex-specific prevalence and correlates of possible undiagnosed obstructive sleep apnea in rural Canada
Authors: Zaman Ishita B. , Janzen Bonnie , Karunanayake Chandima , Dosman James A. , Pahwa Punam
Published: April 2024

Background

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) has been under-investigated in rural communities, particularly through a sex/gender lens. The purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence and correlates of OSA risk among rural-dwelling women and men in Saskatchewan, Canada.

Methods

Participants for this cross-sectional study were 2340 women and 2030 men living in rural Saskatchewan, Canada and were without a prior diagnosis of OSA. The dependent variable, OSA risk, was estimated from self-reported symptoms of OSA and percentage body fat. Independent variables included socio-demographic characteristics, health behaviors, comorbidities, and quality of life indicators. Multivariable logistic regression was the primary statistical technique employed, conducted separately for women and men.

Results

A greater proportion of men (30.1%) than women (19.4%) were at high risk of OSA. While many of the correlates of OSA risk were similar for women and men, sex differences emerged for marital status, educational attainment, financial strain, depression, asthma, and perceptions of community support.

Conclusion

A sizable minority of rural women and men may have possible undiagnosed OSA, which in turn, is associated with substantial comorbidity and reduced quality of life. Additional research with enhanced measurement and a longitudinal design is required to test the veracity of these findings and further clarify the role of sex/gender in relation to OSA risk in rural adults.
A modalidade convencional de ajuste administrativo na lei de execução penal: entidades privadas e o Estado na implementação de políticas públicas de educação em estabelecimentos prisionais
Authors: Nunes Filho José Tenório
Published: April 2024

A Lei de Execução Penal reconhece a educação como direito das pessoas privadas de liberdade pelo Estado. Para sua concretização estipula, em seu artigo 20, a possibilidade de a administração pública firmar ajustes, nomeados de convênios, com entidades públicas ou particulares, que instalem escolas ou ofereçam cursos especializados. A Lei nº 13.019/2014 estabelece normas gerais sobre os ajustes estipulados pela administração com entidades privadas sem fins lucrativos e disciplina alguns pontos sobre a formalização de convênios. Essa norma pode gerar a falsa impressão da revogação, ou mesmo de uma interpretação restritiva, do dispositivo da lei executiva penal, necessitando-se, assim, de uma averiguação para obtenção da máxima efetividade do direito fundamental à educação.
Compromissos como técnica de administração consensual: breves comentários ao art. 26 da LINDB
Authors: Marrara Thiago
Published: April 2024

O art. 26 da LINDB surge como norma autorizativa geral nacional para que a concertação possa ser usada pela administração pública por meio da celebração de compromissos. O objetivo desse artigo é verificar o significado jurídico da palavra “compromisso” e relacioná-la com os conceitos de acordos integrativos ou substitutivos. Em seguida, parte-se para o exame do texto do art. 26 da LINDB, buscando-se extrair, por meio do método analítico dedutivo, os requisitos finalísticos, materiais e formais para a celebração de compromissos. Ademais, a partir desse exame, busca-se apontar os aspectos do art. 26 que merecem regulamentação.
Developmental Politics, Urban and Agrarian Reforms, and Eminent Domain Laws in ‘Era Vargas’ (1930-1964): Some Sociolegal Historical Considerations on the Concept and Its Reflections on Nowadays Brazilian Land Law
Authors: Pezzolo Farina Marcelo
Published: April 2024

The 'Era Vargas' brought a shift in Brazilian economic politics, using a developmentalist approach. Named after President Getúlio Vargas, who ruled as a dictator from 1930 to 1945 and was later elected from 1951 to 1954, the era focused on development through public enterprises, including petroleum, steel, and urban renewal. Vargas and his successors planned the Basic Reforms, encompassing labor, tax, state, administrative, urban, and agrarian reforms. However, conservative forces hindered agrarian and urban reforms, maintaining classical liberal property and eminent domain concepts. This study aims to revisit the history of these reforms, focusing on property and eminent domain, as they continue to shape contemporary land regulations and takings.
Una perspectiva desde la ciudadanía y los derechos sociales sobre el sector del empleo informal en América Latina
Authors: Thoene Ulf
Published: April 2024

Este capítulo examina la relación entre el Estado y la sociedad por medio de los conceptos de ciudadanía y derechos sociales en el contexto de América Latina. Se discute cómo los procesos políticos moldean la estructura de la sociedad, así como la protección social a través de la legislación. Se destaca la importancia de los medios para implementar los derechos sociales y legalmente exigibles. También se plantean preguntas sobre el valor de la libertad, la igualdad y la integración social a la hora de crear el Estado de bienestar
Iniciativas productivas informales de población víctima de desplazamiento a razón del conflicto armado
Authors: Uribe Sarmiento John Jairo , Salamanca Santos María del Pilar
Published: April 2024

El capítulo explora la relación entre la violencia, la informalidad y la supervivencia en el Tolima. Se discute la capacidad de resistencia de las víctimas del conflicto, así como las soluciones que han desarrollado para enfrentar los problemas. Se destaca la imposibilidad de contar con empleos formales y los requisitos necesarios para acceder a ellos, así como el recurso a la economía informal para hacer frente a la precariedad. El capítulo emplea unas interesantes estrategias metodológicas empleadas en la investigación y los aspectos centrales de las dinámicas de economía informal.