bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in muscle-to-fat ratio are associated with lung function decline and airflow obstruction in the general population
Authors: Kim Eunwoo , Leem Ah Young , Jung Ji Ye , Kim Young Sam , Park Youngmok
Published: December 2024

Background

The long-term relationship between body composition and lung function has not yet been fully demonstrated. We investigated the longitudinal association between muscle-to-fat (MF) ratio and lung function among middle-aged general population.

Methods

Participants were enrolled from a community-based prospective cohort between 2005 and 2014. Lung function parameters (forced vital capacity [FVC], forced expiratory volume in 1 s [FEV1], and FEV1/FVC) and the MF ratio (total body muscle mass [kg]/fat mass [kg]) were assessed biannually via spirometry and bioelectrical impedance analysis, respectively.

Results

We followed up 4,712 participants (age 53.9 ± 7.9 years, men 45.8%) for 8 years. With an increase in MF ratio of 1, in men, the FVC increased by 43.9 mL, FEV1 by 37.6 mL, and FEV1/FVC by 0.320%, while in non-smoking women, the FVC increased by 55.8 mL, FEV1 by 44.3 mL, and FEV1/FVC by 0.265% (all P < 0.001). The MF ratio-decreased group showed further annual deterioration in lung function than the MF ratio-increased group (men: FVC − 44.1 mL vs. -28.4 mL, FEV1 -55.8 mL vs. -39.7 mL, FEV1/FVC − 0.53% vs. -0.42%; non-smoking women: FVC − 34.2 mL vs. -30.3 mL, FEV1 -38.0 mL vs. -35.2 mL; all P < 0.001, except FEV1 in non-smoking women; P = 0.005). The odds ratio for the incidence of airflow obstruction according to the MF ratio was 0.77 (95% CI, 0.68–0.87) in men and 0.85 (95% CI, 0.74–0.97) in non-smoking women.

Conclusions

Long-term changes in the MF ratio are related to lung function deterioration and incidence of airflow obstruction in middle-aged general population.
Simplified Plasmodium falciparum membrane feeding assay using small Petri dishes and gel warmers
Authors: Mlambo Godfree , Thanakornsombut Tassanee , Tripathi Abhai K.
Published: December 2024

Studies on Plasmodium falciparum transmission require blood-feeding infectious gametocytes to mosquitoes using standard membrane-feeding assays (SMFAs). SMFAs are routinely performed using electric heating coils or glass membrane feeders connected to a circulatory water bath using tubing and clamps. Each of these approaches is expensive and requires a complex setup, hence restricting the number of assays that can be performed simultaneously. Furthermore, existing methods cannot be easily applied in low-resource field settings. This study presents a low-cost and simplified method for feeding mosquitoes with an infectious blood meal using 35 mm Petri dishes where temperature is maintained by using reusable gel warmers. The intensity and prevalence of infection in mosquitoes (Anopheles stephensi and Anopheles gambiae) fed via a Petri dish overlaid with gel warmers were comparable to mosquitoes fed using standard glass membrane feeders. The methodology described here can be easily applied in low-resource and field settings due to its low cost, ease of set up, and use of easily available supplies, such as Petri dishes, and reusable gel warmers. We believe a wide range of laboratories can easily adapt this method for P. falciparum transmission studies.
Impact of drug-resistant tuberculosis on socio-economic status, quality of life and psychological well-being of patients in Bucharest, Romania: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Ramachandran Rupa , Dumitrescu Andreea , Baiceanu Dragos , Popa Cristina , Dragomir Antonela , Mahler Beatrice , Hoelscher Michael , Lange Christoph , Heyckendorf Jan , Rachow Andrea , Ibraim Elmira , Ivanova Olena
Published: December 2024

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a global health challenge, with 1.3 million deaths in 2022. Ten countries in the European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) accounted for 88.3% of TB cases, of which 23.8% were from Romania. Evidence shows that mental health issues, decreased quality of life and negative socio-economic impact are common among TB patients; however, there is limited evidence available in Romania. The main aim of this study is to longitudinally assess the quality of life, mental health, and socio-economic status of patients with drug-resistant TB (DR TB) in Romania.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted at the Marius Nasta Institute of Pneumology in Bucharest, Romania, enrolling 50 participants with DR TB. Demographic data, clinical examinations, laboratory test and medical history were recorded at study start. At baseline (week two), month 10, and month 20 we also administered the Short-Form-36 and Kessler Psychological Distress Scale to assess health-related quality of life and mental health status, and socio-economic questionnaires to 46 participants.

Results

Of the 46 participants with median age of 48.9 years, 71.7% were males. Majority of the participants were employed at the baseline but due to the rigorous treatment and hospitalization had to take sick leave, thereby affecting the individual and household income. 26.1% and 39.3% of participants reported psychological distress at baseline and at the end of month 20, respectively. The quality-of-life scores improved during treatment: PCS with a mean of 67.0 (SD-33.9) at baseline, 63.3 (SD-31.9) at month 10 and 70.3 (SD-30.3) at month 20, and MCS with 62.8 (SD-30.6), 67.8 (SD-29) and 70.8 (SD-27.3), accordingly, but differences were not significant.

Conclusions

We examined the socio-economic impact, quality of life, and psychological distress among patients affected by DR TB in Romania. The results of this study suggest that social and psychological support will ensure a better standard of living during and following TB treatment.
Seismic repair of severely corroded precast RC columns with FRP shell and headed steel bars
Authors: Shrestha Sayal , Pantelides Chris P.
Published: December 2024

Corrosion of reinforced concrete bridge columns degrades their seismic performance. A seismic repair strategy for severely corroded reinforced concrete columns is developed. Three specimens were constructed; one served as the control, and two were corroded with a 25% target mass loss of longitudinal steel bar area. The control and one of the corroded columns were tested under cyclic loads, and the remaining corroded column was repaired before being tested. Repair consisted of a carbon fiber reinforced polymer shell filled with concrete and connected to the footing using headed steel bars. All three columns failed due to longitudinal steel bar fracture; the control column failed at 9.0% drift ratio, the severely corroded column failed at 6.0% drift ratio after longitudinal steel bars buckled, and the repaired corroded column failed at 10.0% drift ratio. This demonstrates the effectiveness of the repair method. A numerical model was developed to simulate the seismic performance of the control, the corroded, and the repaired columns, which matched the experimental hysteresis curves and predicted fracture of longitudinal steel bars at the same drift ratio as the experiment. The numerical model is extended for parametric analysis of reinforced concrete columns with varying levels of corrosion and repaired columns.
Microbiological Spectrum and Antibiotics Sensitivity Pattern of Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media (CSOM) Patients: A prospective study from a Tertiary Care Hospital in Peshawar
Authors: Imran Khan  , Muhammad Osama  , Ihsan Ullah  , Inzimam Ul Haq
Published: December 2024

Background & Objective: Chronic suppurative otitis media is a fatal condition owing to its propensity for intracranial extension. The inadvertent use of antibiotics has led to resistance among causative organisms. The objectives of this study were to determine causative bacteria, their antibiotic resistance and susceptibility patterns, and their response to antibiotics after a one-month follow-up.
Method: It was a prospective study conducted in the ENT department of Khyber Teaching Hospital, Peshawar from June 2023 to March 2024. Ear swabs were collected for microscopy and bacterial culture. Statistical analysis was done using IBM-SPSS-20, and GraphPad Prism.
Results: Data was collected from 113 patients. The mean age of the patients was 22 + 2 years. Out of 113 samples, 97(85.5%) showed growth on culture whereas 16(14%) showed no growth, with 95 (98%) unimicrobial, while 2 (2%) showed polymicrobial growth. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the commonest bacteria isolated 38(38%), followed by S. aureus, Proteus species, and S. saprophyticus. Gram-positive bacteria were susceptible to Linezolid (80%), followed by Vancomycin (76%), with resistance to Ciprofloxacin (75-84%), Ampicillin (70%), and Ceftriaxone (75-80%). Gram-negative bacteria showed susceptibility to carbapenem (50-100%) and Piperacillin/Tazobactam (50% to 93%), with resistance to Ciprofloxacin (50-87%), Ceftriaxone (87%), and Amoxicillin/Clavulanate (72-90%). After one month of follow-up, 82% of patients showed improvements, with noncompliance significantly associated with the persistence of symptoms (p<0.01).
Conclusion: Moderate to high resistance against ciprofloxacin, third-generation cephalosporin, ampicillin, amoxicillin plus clavulanate, and clindamycin is an eye-opener. Our results underscore the critical need for judicious administration of empirical antibiotics.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.41.1.9992
How to cite this: Khan I, Osama M, Ihsan Ullah, Inzimam Ul Haq. Microbiological Spectrum and Antibiotics Sensitivity Pattern of Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media (CSOM) Patients: A prospective study from a Tertiary Care Hospital in Peshawar. Pak J Med Sci. 2025;41(1):194-199.   doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.41.1.9992
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Non-invasive rehabilitation in Morbus Ledderhose disease, methods, techniques, efficiency
Authors: Costescu Elena , Păduraru Oana , Călin Gabriela , Țabrean (Partene) Mihaiela Camelia , Păduraru Călin Ștefan
Published: December 2024

The abnormal proliferation of the fibrous tissue in the plantar fascia, Morbus Ledderhose is a non-malignant thickening of the deep connective tissue of the foot, a relatively rare pa-thology that intensely affects patients through marked pain and functional impotence. Re-habilitation treatments are poorly presented in the literature. To apply a non-invasive physiotherapeutic treatment which leads to consistent results in reducing pain, reducing the size of nodules or even their disappearance, the functional resumption of the foot, an increase in the life quality of affected patients. In the study, pa-tients were divided into 2 groups: G1 received treatment consisting of shockwave therapy complemented with SIS therapy, G2 received treatment consisting of ultrasound, laser therapy, kinesiotherapy, massage, excluding the application of shockwave therapy and SIS. Some of the patients associate comorbidities such as type II diabetes, Dupuytren’s disease or, more rarely, with Peyronie’s disease (penile fibromatosis). Important positive results have been obtained: a considerable decrease in the pain level of patients, the dissi-pation of consistency and decrease in the size of plantar nodules, an increase in the life quality of the patients with the resumption of productive activities. The treat-ment with shock waves and super inductive system has an increased efficiency both folowing the first cure and after various consecutive cures applied consistently at 6 months or maybe even faster, at 4-5 months, if necessary, if the pathology advances faster by intensifying fibrosis.
ECOLOGICAL AND RECLAMATION EFFECT OF TREE AND SHRUBBY PLANTATIONS ON PASTURES
Authors: Rybashlykova Ludmila P. , Sivceva Svetlana N. , Mahovikova Tatyana F.
Published: December 2024

Background. Based on the analysis of previously conducted long-term scientific research, the development of this research topic is justified, which consists in studying the effect of agroforestry, using multi-tiered tree and shrubby backstage-strip plantations, on the productivity of pastures of the arid zone of the Caspian Sea region.
The purpose assessment of the ecological and reclamation effect of tree and shrubby backstage-strip plantations on the productivity and condition of pastures in semi-desert conditions.
Materials and methods. The research was carried out according to generally accepted methods in forest taxation, soil science and geobotany. The species composition of the herbage and feed productivity were studied on 6 rectangular sample areas with an area of 0.30 hectares. The yield of the foot feed was determined by the mowing method of accounting sites with an area 2.5 m2 in 4-fold repetition, nutritional value in laboratory conditions according to generally accepted methods.
Results. As a result of the conducted research in the Nogai steppe, a high reclamation efficiency of pasture-protective plantations from Ulmus pumila in the form stripes alternating with open areas of pasture vegetation was revealed. In the Astrakhan Volga region, on the bumpy sandy complexes of forest pastures, a combination of shrubby tiers in the form of backstage and strip plantations of Haloxylon aphyllum, Krascheninnikovia ceratoides and Calligonum aphyllum has high efficiency. On the territory of the Black Lands of Kalmykia, in modern foci of deflation, a reliable method of phytomelioration is the creation of pastures with protective strips and reclamation and forage plantations of Krascheninnikovia ceratoides and Calligonum aphyllum, because the range of meliorant species is limited to shrubby life forms capable of surviving droughts.
Conclusion. To restore and increase the productivity of land and improve the quality of feed, different types of pasture-protective and reclamation-forage plantations of shrub and tree species are most effective. Pastures in the semi-desert, taking into account tree and shrub plantations, provide an average of 1-3 t/ha of feed per unit area, depending on the forest cover, which is 1.2-3 times more than native vegetation.
Why Investors Want Risk
Authors: Johnstone David , Lin Yan-Xia
Published: December 2024

We imagine investors taking shares in an exogenous lognormal cash payoff with known parameters. Using a power utility (constant relative risk aversion (CRRA)) replica of Lintner’s static payoffs-based constant absolute risk aversion-normal capital asset pricing model, we examine how an investor’s expected utility is affected by the payoff parameters and surrounding market conditions. The market clearing asset price falls as a proportion of wealth when market wealth is higher, implying that CRRA investors hold a lower (rather than fixed) proportion of wealth in the risky asset when they are wealthier. Investors prefer conditions where they can obtain more risk, either because the risky payoff is exogenously riskier or competing investors want less. The equilibrium asset price is “disproportionately” lower when the asset is riskier, or when there are fewer willing buyers, leaving a better opportunity with higher expected utility.
Therapeutic Role of Nutraceuticals in Ameliorating Neurodevelopmental Disorders: A Focus on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) – State of art Review
Authors: Yogitha Palanivelrajan Sumathi , Suchitra Melapalayam Rengarajan , Parthasarathy Srinivasan
Published: December 2024

Nutraceuticals are beneficial compounds present in foods that act as therapeutic and preventive agents against diseases. By following a diet designed for the diseased condition, the nutraceuticals provide an ameliorating effect. Nutritional foods comprise active components like polyphenols, flavonoids, and alkaloids with unquestionable antioxidant activity. For many disorders, oxidative stress and free radicals are the foremost causes. So, the antioxidant activity of functional foods has the capability to fight against countless physiological defects. The most intricate disorder with an unpredictable, definite cause with a high range of aetiology in infants these days is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Treatment for ASD is a highly challenging research field for upcoming researchers on the same side. ASD patients also needed an effective treatment without side effects. Then diet-based approaches are the main aim, due to their beneficial effects with less toxicity, to maintain the homeostatic condition of the ASD patients. Foodiceuticals ameliorate the adverse effects of neurodevelopment, neurodegenerative disorders, and other metabolic disorders. The upgrading effects of superfoods like resveratrol, curcumin, crocin, catechin, lycopene, probiotics, melatonin, withaferin, and carotene, etc., are examined in the ASD animal models with varied dosages. However, it showed a better effect in improving ASD behaviour via mediating the genetic alterations. In this review, the detailed mechanisms of pharmaceutical foods are reviewed. The potential therapeutic value of nutraceuticals and functional foods in ASD lies in their antioxidant capability and ability to modulate genetic alterations. Promising such results are reported from foods, such as resveratrol, curcumin, and probiotics in preclinical studies related to ASD behaviours. The results further warrant clinical trials to establish their efficacy and safety. The article highlights their antioxidant activity, ability to modulate genetic alterations, and promising effects in preclinical studies, emphasizing the need for clinical trials to confirm efficacy and safety. Based on the review of nutraceuticals given a clear-cut point in the treatment of ASD, there is a positive result in prevention and treatment not only in ASD but in other diseases too.
Cocoa Shell as a Bulking Agent in Nutritionally Improved Cocoa Spreads with Sugar Substitutes
Authors: Barišić Veronika , Ačkar Đurđica , Lončarević Ivana , Petrović Jovana , Benšić Mirta , Paulik Daniela , Doko Kristina , Jozinović Antun , Babić Jurislav , Šubarić Drago , Flanjak Ivana
Published: December 2024

Due to unhealthy lifestyle, Western countries are dealing with pandemic of overweight and obesity. To tackle the problem, industry has been looking for solutions to produce nutritionally improved foods. In the present research, sucrose was fully substituted with xylitol, or by combination of xylitol and stevia with cocoa shell as a bulking agent. Apart from reducing caloric value of the sweet spreads, protein, ash, methylxanthine and phenolic compound contents were increased, without major influence on fatty acid composition. The spreads with added cocoa shell may be declared as a source fibre. Although stability of sweet spreads during storage was not compromised, which is visible from low water activity (between 0.132 for control sample and 0.233 for sample with 52 % xylitol) and high colloidal stability (above 99), rheological properties and texture of the spreads deteriorated (increase of plastic viscosity from 3.708 Pas up to 18.280 Pas and decrease of spreadability from 1180.43 gs up to 334.670 gs), which could pose an issue from the technological and sensorial points of view. Overall, satisfactory products were obtained with potential for further upgrade for industrial production.
Impact of Almond (Terminalia catappa) Ethanolic Leaf Extracts on an Ethylene Glycol-Induced Urolithiasis Rat Model
Authors: Shamlan Ghalia , Alansari Wafa Suliman
Published: December 2024

The disease of renal stones has been recognized for centuries. It is one of the most common disorders, characterized by calcifications in the kidneys, bladder, or urethra. Phytomolecules are effectively used in traditional medicine. The current study aimed to evaluate the effects of high and low doses of Terminalia catappa (T. catappa) leaf extracts on renal stone formation in a rat model of urolithiasis. The rats werehoused individually in metabolic cages and were given drinking water containing 0.75% Ethylene Glycol (EG) and 1% Ammonium Chloride (AC) to induce the production of kidney stones. EG and AC elevated the levels of molecules indicative of renal efficiency, including citrate, oxalate, urobilinogen, and microalbumin. Additionally, they reduced urine volume and urinary pH. After administering (200 or 400 mg/kg body weight) of Cystone or ethanolic extracts of T. catappa leaves orally, renal function parameters returned to normal ranges. Additionally, the urinary electrolytes were diluted, which may have contributed to a reduced risk of calculus formation. Histological analyses were consistent with the biochemical data. This study demonstrated that Cystone and ethanolic extracts of T. catappa leaves exhibited protective properties against urolithiasis induced by EG in rats. The higher dose of T. catappa extracts showed a more significant effect compared to the lower dose.
Hybrid Energy Storage Unites Supercaps and Batteries
Authors: Wade Andrew
Published: December 2024

Collaboration identifies and validates key mechanisms of breakthrough energy storage technology
Polarization maintaining, normal-dispersion silica fiber for dispersion compensation in ultrafast erbium and thulium-doped fiber lasers
Authors: Łaszczych Zbigniew , Żołnacz Kinga , Szewczyk Olga , Statkiewicz-Barabach Gabriela , Olszewski Jacek , Krakowski Mikołaj , Puła Anna , Piwowar Paweł , Polewska Anita , Klein Magdalena , Wrona Paulina , Urbańczyk Wacław , Dłubek Michał , Mergo Paweł , Soboń Grzegorz , Sotor Jarosław
Published: December 2024

We present a highly birefringent silica fiber with normal dispersion up to 2334 nm, designed to control a net-cavity dispersion of pulsed fiber lasers at different wavelengths. The fiber is characterized by a large normal dispersion, slowly growing from -87 ps/nm/km at 1200 nm to -42 ps/nm/km at 2000nm, and high phase birefringence exceeding 1.9 × 10−4 in this spectral range which ensures a polarization extinction ratio as high as 28 dB for a 1 m long fiber section. The industrially fabricated fiber was examined in two all-polarization-maintaining mode-locked fiber oscillators operating at central wavelengths of 1560 nm and 1980nm. We confirmed the ability to manage the dispersion of the oscillators, which worked in both anomalous and normal dispersion, maintaining stable mode-locking. Employing the developed fiber with normal dispersion has resulted in a broadening of spectral full width at half maximum from 7.8 to 44.3 nm and from 5.5 to 25.8 nm for the erbium and thulium lasers, respectively. The ability to support operation in the range of tens of MHz allows for the application of the developed laser sources in systems reducing the repetition rate via e.g. pulse picking.
The predictive value of heparin-binding protein for bacterial infections in patients with severe polytrauma
Authors: Li Li , Tian Xiao-xi , Feng Gui-long , Chen Bing
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Heparin-binding protein is an inflammatory factor with predictive value for sepsis and participates in the inflammatory response through antibacterial effects, chemotaxis, and increased vascular permeability. The role of heparin-binding protein in sepsis has been progressively demonstrated, but few studies have been conducted in the context of polytrauma combined with bacterial infections. This study aims to investigate the predictive value of heparin-binding protein for bacterial infections in patients with severe polytrauma.

Materials and methods

This is a prospective single-center study. Patients with polytrauma in the emergency intensive care unit were selected for the study, and plasma heparin-binding protein concentrations and other laboratory parameters were measured within 48 hours of admission to the hospital. A two-sample comparison and univariate logistic regression analysis investigated the relationship between heparin-binding protein and bacterial infection in polytrauma patients. A multifactor logistic regression model was constructed, and the ROC curve was plotted.

Results

Ninety-seven patients with polytrauma were included in the study, 43 with bacterial infection and 54 without infection. Heparin-binding protein was higher in the infected group than in the control group [(32.00±3.20) ng/mL vs. (18.52±1.33) ng/mL, P = 0.001]. Univariate logistic regression analysis shows that heparin-binding protein is related to bacterial infection (OR = 1.10, Z = 3.91, 95%CI:1.05~1.15, P = 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression equations showed that patients were 1.12 times more likely to have bacterial infections for each value of heparin-binding protein increase, holding neutrophils and Procalcitonin (PCT) constant. ROC analysis shows that heparin-binding protein combined with neutrophils and PCT has better predictive value for bacterial infection [AUC = 0.935, 95%CI:0.870~0.977].

Conclusions

Heparin-binding protein may predict bacterial infection in patients with severe polytrauma. Combining heparin-binding protein, PCT, and neutrophils may improve bacterial infection prediction.
Histopathological domain adaptation with generative adversarial networks: Bridging the domain gap between thyroid cancer histopathology datasets
Authors: Dee William , Alaaeldin Ibrahim Rana , Marouli Eirini
Published: December 2024

Deep learning techniques are increasingly being used to classify medical imaging data with high accuracy. Despite this, due to often limited training data, these models can lack sufficient generalizability to predict unseen test data, produced in different domains, with comparable performance. This study focuses on thyroid histopathology image classification and investigates whether a Generative Adversarial Network [GAN], trained with just 156 patient samples, can produce high quality synthetic images to sufficiently augment training data and improve overall model generalizability. Utilizing a StyleGAN2 approach, the generative network produced images with an Fréchet Inception Distance (FID) score of 5.05, matching state-of-the-art GAN results in non-medical domains with comparable dataset sizes. Augmenting the training data with these GAN-generated images increased model generalizability when tested on external data sourced from three separate domains, improving overall precision and AUC by 7.45% and 7.20% respectively compared with a baseline model. Most importantly, this performance improvement was observed on minority class images, tumour subtypes which are known to suffer from high levels of inter-observer variability when classified by trained pathologists.
Photobiomodulation as part of multimodal analgesia to improve pain relief and wound healing after elective caesarean section: A protocol for randomized controlled trial
Authors: Khaled Maram , Baranov Adriana , Diaz Alvaro , Patel Mansi , Clements Sarah , Farsinejad Parsa , Khatana Kabir , Gnanapragasam Ashmitha , Selvanayagam Sathurthika , Muhsen Zeineb , Chan Jocelyn , Hunjan Sanjum , Kazi Ayman , Sharma Sapna , Luketic Lea , Ewusie Joycelyne Efua , Cordovani Daniel , Shanthanna Harsha
Published: December 2024

Background

Caesarean section (CS) is the most common inpatient surgical procedure performed in Canada. CS is known to cause moderate-to-severe pain, which is suggested to be associated with postpartum depression and persistent pain. Existing limitations in multimodal analgesia and conscious attempts to avoid opioids highlight the need for non-pharmacological strategies. Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) uses light-emitting diode (LED) and laser and has suggested potential for improving pain control and wound healing. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of PBMT as part of existing multimodal analgesia after elective CSs.

Methods

This placebo-controlled, two-arm, multi-centre, parallel-design randomized controlled trial includes women aged ≥16 years with planned CS under spinal anesthesia (Clinical Trials Registration: NCT05738239). Patients will be randomized post-CS to intervention (n = 90) or placebo (n = 90). Study interventions will be carried out using equipment supported by Meditech International Incorporated (approved by Health Canada for pain relief). Patients will receive a maximum of 5 post-surgical treatment sessions of active PBMT (intervention: LED therapy: DUO 240 [red at 660nm and near-infrared at 840nm] applied parallel to the abdominal incision scar, followed by BIOFLEX LDR-100 laser probe (660nm red light) and the LD1-200 laser probe (825nm near-infrared light), applied at the incision wound edges) or non-effective doses of LED array and laser therapy (placebo), 4–6 hrs post-CS, and at 8am and 7pm of postoperative days 1 and 2. Patients, research assistants involved in patient recruitment and follow-up, health care providers, and data analysts will be blinded. All patients will have access to routine multimodal analgesia. Patients will be followed up in hospital on the evening of surgery and on postoperative days 1 and 2 (morning, noon, and evening); at 6 weeks; and at 3 months by telephone. Primary outcome is pain intensity with movement (elicited by asking the patient to move from supine to sitting position) using 0–10 Numerical Rating Scale (0 = no pain, 10 = worst possible pain).

Significance

The results of this study may result in improved pain control, maternal satisfaction and wound healing; decrease the use of perioperative opioids; potentially decrease the incidence of postpartum depression and persistent pain; and overall lead to better postoperative outcomes thereby decreasing healthcare costs.
Lyophilized powder of calf bone marrow hydrolysate liposomes improved renal anemia: In vitro and in vivo evaluation
Authors: Li Li , Zhao Shasha , Liu Xiaodun , Xu Zhe , Li Dong , Dai Xiaoyu
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to find whether oral administration of calf bone marrow hydrolysate liposomes (CBMHL) can improve renal anemia. Calf bone marrow was defatted, papain hydrolyzed, liposomalized and lyophilized. Its hematopoietic ability was proved by the colony formation experiment of umbilical cord blood hematopoietic stem cells in vitro. The rat model of renal anemia was established by adenine intragastric administration, and different concentrations of CBMHL were intragastricly administrated. Blood routine and serological indexes, transcription levels of hematopoietic factors and renal pathology were detected. From the appearance, redispersability, water content, liposome indexes and stability of Lyophilized powder of CBMHL, it could be concluded that the quality of freeze-dried CBMHL powder under this freeze-drying process was good. Compared with the control group, the burst forming unit-erythroid (BFU-E) in the CBMHL group was larger and the number of colonies increased significantly in the colony formation experiment (P < 0.05). The results of lyophilized powder of CBMHL co-culture with human adipose mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and human cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cells showed that the lyophilized powder of CBMHL had no potential toxicity and allergic reaction in vitro. Compared with the Model Group, the red blood cell (RBC) count, hemoglobin (HB) content and hematokrit (HCT) of rats blood routine in the Model+high doses of CBMHL Group (Model+H-CBMHL Group) increased significantly (P < 0.05). Serum erythropoietin (EPO) and glutathione (GSH) levels increased significantly (P < 0.05), while serum creatinine (Cr) levels decreased significantly(P < 0.05). The transcription level of Epo in kidney increased significantly (P < 0.05), the transcription levels of erythropoietin receptor (Epor) in bone marrow and interleukin 6 (Il6) in spleen were significantly increased (P < 0.01). The fragility of red blood cells decreased significantly, and the pathological structure of kidney improved significantly. It was proved that lyophilized powder of CBMHL could effectively enhance the hematopoietic ability of rats with renal anemia and protect the kidney structure and function.
Respiratory symptoms and pulmonary function in paint industry workers exposed to volatile organic compounds: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Sekhar Lavanya , Govindarajan Venguidesvarane Akila , Thiruvengadam Gayathri , Sharma Yogita , Venugopal Vidhya , Rengarajan Santhanam , Johnson Priscilla
Published: December 2024

Several epidemiological studies have examined the respiratory consequences of occupational exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs). However, their effects on paint industry workers in organised and unorganised occupational sectors vary. The present systematic review and meta-analysis aim at evaluating the respiratory symptoms and pulmonary function of paint industry workers from various occupational sectors exposed to VOCs. Relevant MESH terms were used for literature search in MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar till August 2023. The articles were independently retrieved and qualified by two reviewers and two subject experts arbitrated reviewer differences to establish relevant article inclusion. The systematic review comprised 23 observational studies that assessed respiratory symptom and pulmonary function tests (PFT) among paint industry worker from various occupational sectors. The meta-analysis included 12 studies on respiratory symptoms and 18 on PFT. Pooled meta-analysis was done using random effect model, and the crude odds of respiratory symptoms such as cough (OR: 2.72, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.74 to 4.25), dyspnoea (OR: 3.59, 95% CI: 2.13 to 6.05), nasal/throat irritation (OR: 4.5, 95% CI: 1.7 to 12.1), and wheezing (OR: 2.28, 95% CI: 1.37 to 3.82) were significantly higher among paint industry workers exposed to VOC compared to unexposed population. PFT parameters, such as forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) (SMD: -0.88, 95% CI: -1.5 to -0.2) and FEV1/forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) (SMD: -0.97, 95% CI: -1.6 to -0.32) were found to be significantly reduced among the paint industry workers. The meta-analysis has helped in generating evidence regarding the effect of VOC on respiratory symptoms and pulmonary function and the strength of the association varied with geographical regions, and the type of occupational sectors. Despite the heterogeneity (I2 > 75%) of studies, statistical power of this analysis was significant.

Trial registration: PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022311390.
Genomic insights into the probiotic potential and genes linked to gallic acid metabolism in Pediococcus pentosaceus MBBL6 isolated from healthy cow milk
Authors: Rahman Md. Morshedur , Siddique Naim , Hasnat Soharth , Rahman Md. Tanvir , Rahman Mustafizur , Alam Munirul , Das Ziban Chandra , Islam Tofazzal , Hoque M. Nazmul
Published: December 2024

Pediococcus pentosaceus is well known for its probiotic properties, including roles in improving health, antimicrobial production, and enhancing fermented food quality. This study aimed to comprehensively analyze the whole genome of P. pentosaceus MBBL6, isolated from healthy cow milk, to assess its probiotic and antimicrobial potentials. P. pentosaceus MBBL6, isolated from a healthy cow milk at BSMRAU dairy farm, Gazipur, Bangladesh, underwent comprehensive genomic analysis, including whole genome sequencing, assembly, annotation, phylogenetic comparison, and assessment of metabolic pathways and secondary metabolites. Antimicrobial efficacy was evaluated through in-vitro and in-vivo studies, alongside in-silico exploration for potential mastitis therapy. We predicted 1,906 genes and 204 SEED sub-systems involved in carbohydrate metabolism and vitamin B complex biosynthesis, with a focus on lactose metabolism in MMBL6. Notably, 43 putative carbohydrate-active enzyme genes, including lysozymes, suggest the ability of MBBL6 for carbohydrate biotransformation and antimicrobial activity. The genome also revealed primary metabolic pathways for arginine and gallic acid metabolism and secondary metabolite gene clusters, including T3PKS and RiPP-like regions. Importantly, two bacteriocin biosynthesis gene clusters namely bovicin_255_variant and penocin_A, were identified in MBBL6. The safety assessment of MBBL6 genome revealed no virulence genes and a low pathogenicity score (0.196 out of 1.0). Several genes related to survival in gastrointestinal tract and colonization were also identified. Furthermore, MBBL6 exhibited susceptibility to a wide range of antibiotics in-vitro, and effectively suppressed mastitis pathogens in an in-vivo mouse mastitis model trial. The observed bacteriocin, particularly bovicin, demonstrated the ability to disrupt the function of an essential protein, Rho factor of mastitis pathogens by blocking transcription termination process. Taken together, our in-depth genomic analysis underscores the metabolic versatility, safety profile, and antimicrobial potential of P. pentosaceus MBBL6, suggesting its promise for applications in therapeutics, bioremediation, and biopreservation.
Challenges and opportunities in implementing and enforcing India’s loose cigarette sales ban: A qualitative stakeholder analysis
Authors: Sakhuja Mayank , Friedman Daniela B. , Macauda Mark M. , Hebert James R. , Pednekar Mangesh S. , Gupta Prakash C. , Thrasher James F.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Several Indian states have banned the sale of loose cigarettes, and India is considering a national ban. This study examines the perceptions of policymakers, implementers, and law enforcement officials regarding the implementation and enforcement of this ban.

Methods

Between May–October 2022, we conducted in-depth interviews with 26 key stakeholders involved in tobacco control in two Indian cities, Delhi (where the ban was not implemented) and Mumbai (where the ban was in effect). Participants included representatives from various government departments such as police, municipal corporations, FDA, health, and civil society organizations / NGOs such as Vital Strategies, World Health Organization, International Union against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease, and local NGOs. Interviews explored policy awareness, implementation and enforcement status, and factors influencing implementation and enforcement of the ban. Interview transcripts were organized in NVivo, and reflexive thematic analysis was conducted.

Results

In Mumbai, awareness of the ban was poor among implementers and law enforcers, including FDA, municipal, and police officials, while it was higher among health department officials and NGOs directly involved in tobacco control. Participants from Mumbai expressed that the implementation and enforcement of the ban was poor and loose cigarettes were still widely available. Main barriers to policy implementation included unclear implementation guidelines, poor awareness among tobacco vendors, limited resources, and lack of stakeholder commitment for tobacco control. Participants from both the cities emphasized the need for a vendor licensing system, imposing hefty penalties, imparting health education, and a multi-sectoral approach for effective policy implementation and enforcement.

Conclusion

Limited awareness of the ban and continued sale of loose cigarettes highlight gaps in policy implementation and enforcement. Effective policy implementation and enforcement requires raising awareness regarding the policy, adopting a tobacco vendor licensing system, and establishing clear implementation guidelines involving a multi-sectoral approach.
Consuming acceptance: Media consumption as LGBT activism in contemporary Japan
Authors: Doi-Benson Anya
Published: December 2024

The Japanese live-action TV adaptations of Kinō Nani Tabeta? (2019) and complement and develop widespread efforts to teach LGBT issues in contemporary Japan. As the series’ content often repudiates common LGBT and gender stereotypes in the same forms found in non-fiction media, public discourse surrounding the works lauds their depiction of ‘real’ same-sex relationships. This article analyses the series’ ‘real’ positioning through theories regarding the transmedia development of everyday participatory spaces. The series’ social instruction is echoed in their fixation on recipes made available through associated marketing materials. The combination of content lessons and participation-based marketing creates a visible spectacle of LGBT activism characterized by transmissible instructions shown as achievable in the home lives of participants. That home focus is, however, inseparable from the series’ respectability politics, which use the buzz of visibility to display invisible existences aligned with public normativity. The LGBT awareness promoted by these texts and their surrounding discourse can be read as an addition to contemporary advocacy that positions minorities as non-disruptive societal outsiders. By making invisible lifestyles replicable, these works deploy transmedia forms to construct transmission-based intimacy that is ultimately confined to personal consumption.
Queer East: Interview with festival director WANG Yi
Authors: Liu Xi W.
Published: December 2024

This interview with Wang Yi, director of the Queer East Festival, explores the festival's origins, challenges, and development over its five-year span. Wang shares the personal motivation behind creating a platform for showcasing East and Southeast Asian LGBTQ+ cinema, filling a significant gap in film circulation in the United Kingdom. The discussion highlights key issues faced by the festival, such as the pandemic’s impact and securing sustainable funding. Wang also talks about the programming strategies, emphasizing diversity in film selection and addressing the complexity of queer Asian identities. Wang reflects on the festival’s expansion to a multidisciplinary format, including dance, visual arts, and literature, aiming to provide a richer exploration of queer expression. The interview underscores Queer East’s mission to foster cross-cultural understanding and amplify underrepresented voices in the creative landscape.
Administering Affect: Pop-Culture Japan and the Politics of Anxiety, Daniel White (2022)
Authors: Liu Xi W.
Published: December 2024

Review of: Administering Affect: Pop-Culture Japan and the Politics of Anxiety, Daniel White (2022)

Stanford, CA: Stanford University Press, 246 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-50363-219-6, h/bk, $28.00
‘Being in the World’: A photo essay
Authors: Eleftheriotis Dimitris
Published: December 2024

Cosmopolitanism is not an ethical position picked off the shelves of moral or political philosophy; cosmopolitanism is a disposition carved out of the struggles of the self, the cravings and anxieties, fears and desires that navigate our being in the world. The polysemic nature of the terms screen, frame and focus enables a cross-pollinating analysis of cultural texts and photographic experimentation. Foregrounding the experiential and autobiographical, this essay proposes a deeply relational approach to cosmopolitanism as critical and creative practice.
Medical appointments, surgeries and broken families: Transnormativity in the Czech docusoap series ‘In a Different Body’
Authors: Fikejzová Michaela , Charvát Martin
Published: December 2024

This article aims to analyse the media representation of trans* people in a non-anglophone environment, specifically on the example of a docusoap series produced by Czech Television, V jiném těle (‘In a Different Body’) (2022). Using the theoretical framework of ‘transnormativity’ and related concepts such as medicalization and the ‘born/trapped in the wrong body trope’, we analyse the narrative strategies and production and post-production practices present in the programme in question, which discursively set limits to the ways in which the participants could express themselves and how both they, and trans* identity in general, are presented to the audience. In particular, the findings of the study include the extreme medicalization of trans* identity and the significant tailoring of its expression to the cis viewers, resulting in highly stereotypical and transnormative portrayals of trans* people.
Cross-cultural comparisons of social penetration on reality dating television: A look at First Dates UK and First Dates South Africa
Authors: Ngcongo Mthobeli
Published: December 2024

Research into the initiation of romantic relationships through first dates has aided in a deeper understanding into the important norms that make for a successful first romantic encounter through variables such as the role of attachment, attractiveness and goals involved in these encounters. Yet there remains an underappreciation of the communicative processes in the social dynamics across different cultural contexts in these first romantic encounters using non-student samples. Of particular importance is the role of how partners balance the information needs of presenting themselves as a suitable partner while simultaneously assessing the suitability of their date as a potential mate. By doing so, a social exchange paradigm is often implemented in the process to find love. Through social penetration theory (SPT) as a predictive lens, I compare how couples on the first seasons of (n = 12) and (n = 10) moved through the stages of intimacy as a result of mutual communication. Textual analysis suggests that cultural variation in the communicative act of self-disclosure was less of a predictor than was the desire to form an intimate bond.
La regulación jurídica del alojamiento de los tercios españoles en el estado de Milán en el siglo XVI: un intento de evitar conflictos con la población
Authors: Belloso Martín Carlos
Published: December 2024

La presencia del ejército español en los territorios de la Monarquía de España va a provocar en el siglo XVI múltiples problemas de convivencia, produciéndose numerosos episodios de enfrentamientos entre soldados de los tercios españoles y la población autóctona. Para evitar estos conflictos, las autoridades militares con jurisdicción sobre los soldados aplicarán de forma estricta las Ordenanzas y la disciplina militar. Cuando disminuían las amenazas enemigas y comenzaban las molestias de los tercios españoles en sus alojamientos, la población pedía que se marchasen. Será una relación de “amor y odio” sin duda muy compleja que requiere un profundo análisis.
Marte en casa. Violencias y excesos en los alojamientos de soldados: experiencias y cauces jurisdiccionales durante el reinado de Felipe IV (1621-1665
Authors: Rodríguez Hernández Antonio José , Merino Maillos Imanol
Published: December 2024

La constante presencia de la guerra durante el Antiguo Régimen, con unos crecientes ejércitos, condicionó la evolución de las sociedades, y con ellas, del derecho. Las limitaciones de las infraestructuras con que contaban las Monarquías obligaron a que tuvieran que recurrir a la población civil para sustentar los ejércitos. Ello era especialmente visible en los alojamientos de soldados en las casas de los vecinos de lugares donde debían hospedarse. Una convivencia que no siempre era pacífica, y que en ocasiones derivaba en enfrentamientos violentos. En este trabajo queremos aproximarnos al fenómeno de las tensiones provocadas por esos alojamientos en los territorios de la Corona de Castilla durante el reinado de Felipe IV, y las vías de resolución.
Tortura y Naturaleza en el discurso jurídico castellano de la Edad Media
Authors: Panateri Daniel A.
Published: December 2024

Por un lado, mostraré cómo funcionaba la naturaleza en el «Derecho Romano». Por otro lado, partiendo de este funcionamiento, intentaré explicar cómo se reajustó este concepto jurídico durante la Edad Media. Aunque la diferencia en el funcionamiento del concepto de naturaleza en Roma y en la Edad Media es bien conocida, creo que el punto clave de mi investigación consiste en comprender cómo funcionaban estas instituciones y conceptos jurídicos dentro del propio discurso, más que determinar cuál fue el alcance de sus limitaciones. En resumen, pretendo demostrar que hubo una adaptación lingüística, más que conceptual, del concepto de naturaleza para hablar de la fundamentación (no histórica) de las instituciones. Para ello, tomaré diferentes textos del periodo clásico y postclásico y los compararé con lo esbozado en las Siete Partidas (1256-1284). También retomaré algunas nociones del Derecho Común. El elemento preferente de análisis será el uso de la naturaleza dentro del instituto de la tortura judicial. Espero alcanzar una visión completa de cómo funcionó el Derecho Romano en la propia formación del complejo narrativo jurídico durante el siglo XIII.