bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The ‘New Catholicity’ of Fascism
Authors: Muraca Simone
Published: June 2024

This article highlights the intellectual trajectory of the Spanish writer Ernesto Gimenez Caballero (1899–1988) as mediator of fascist internationalism during the 1930s. Caballero, a writer and journalists, was known in Italy thanks to important friendships with leading intellectual, diplomatic and political figures of the Fascist regime. His theory of fascist universalism, presented at the Volta Conference of 1932, identified fascism as the true, unifying principle of Europe. He regarded fascism as ‘the new Catholicity’ of Europe. Inspired by ‘the thaumaturgic genius’ of Mussolini, Caballero pointed out that the center of this new Europe was Rome, which he considered had been reborn with the glories of the ancient times after a long period of uncertainty. The article will explore the key features of Caballero’s idea and their origins within his intellectual biography, stressing the role of personal and transnational networking in the construction of his vision.
Clinopodium eplingianum (Lamiaceae), a new species from Oaxaca, Mexico
Authors: GONZÁLEZ-GALLEGOS JESÚS GUADALUPE , MARTORELL CARLOS , GARCÍA-MEZA DIEGO
Published: June 2024

Recent botanical exploration in grasslands in northwestern Oaxaca have revealed a Clinopodium (Lamiaceae) taxon that cannot be referred to any of the current described species. This plant is most similar to C. hintoniorum from northeastern Mexico, in Nuevo Léon, in general habit and architecture; however, it can be easily distinguished by leaf blade shape and width, calyx teeth shape and length, lack of tufts of hairs between them and a distinction in the relative proportion between calyx and corolla tube. This new species represents an addition to the flora of Oaxaca and to the biogeographic province of Sierra Madre del Sur, being endemic to these two areas. The taxon is here presented as C. eplingianum in honor to Carl Epling, the most prominent scholar in the study of American Lamiaceae. Morphological description, distribution map and illustration of the species are provided.
Revisiting the identity and distribution of Allspice (Myrtaceae), a misidentified spice in India
Authors: NISSAR VETTATHUKATTIL ABDULGAFOOR MUHAMMED , RAJAGOPAL SIVARANJANI , CHERUPPOYILATH MANA HARINARAYANAN , THOTTEN ELAMPILAY SHEEJA , ILLATHIDATH PAYATATTI VIJESH KUMAR , PRABHUKUMAR KONICKAL MAMBETTA , JAGADAMMA REMA , SAJI KORYAMPALLIL VIJAYAN
Published: June 2024

Our recent studies revealed that the species being grown throughout India as ‘Allspice’ is not Pimenta dioica but an allied species, P. racemosa or Bay rum tree. We could locate true allspice (P. dioica), only at a single location in southern India. P. racemosa can be distinguished by its five lobed calyx and corolla and slightly larger fruits with 3–6 seeds in place of four lobed calyx and corolla and smaller fruits with 1–2 seeds in P. dioica. To elucidate its identity and to avoid the trade of a commodity under an erroneous name, the morphological, anatomical and molecular characters delineating the two species are studied and the distribution of the genus Pimenta in India is discussed here.
A new species of Anthurium sect. Tetraspermium (Araceae) for eastern slope of the Andes Mountains Range
Authors: LÓPEZ-FLORIANO OSCAR MAURICIO , CORREA-MUNERA MARCO A. , ZULUAGA ALEJANDRO
Published: June 2024

N/A
The genus Coenagrion Kirby, 1890 (Odonata: Coenagrionidae) in the Russian part of the Caucasus
Authors: KOSTERIN OLEG E. , ONISHKO VLADIMIR V. , ILYINA ELENA V. , CHEPURNOV GRIGORY YU. , BLINOV ALEXANDER G.
Published: June 2024

Distribution, characters and habitats of Coenagrion spp. in the Russian part of the Caucasus is considered, chiefly by the authors’ own data. There are seven species, of which C. australocaspicum Dumont & Heidari, 1996 is for the first time recorded in Russia (Dagestan), C. ornatum (Selys, 1850) and C. scitulum (Rambur, 1842) in Karachay-Cherkess and Dagestan Republics and C. pulchellum (Vander Linden, 1825) in Dagestan. Coenagrion lunulatum is still known from the territory only by a century-old record by A.N. Bartenev from the highlands of West Caucasus. Keys for identification of the Caucasian species of the puella-group in a broad sense—C. australocaspicum, C. puella (Linnaeus, 1758), C. pulchellum and C. ponticum (Bartenef, 1929)—are provided. Coenagrion ponticum is supposed to be a hybridogenic species resulting from hybridiisation between C. puella and C. pulchellum in the past. Three of the EPIC (exon-primed intron-crossing) molecular markers, AgT, MLC and PRMT, were sequenced from the above mentioned puella-group spp. and C. ornatum, from the territory considered and elsewhere, plus from C. persicum (Lohmann, 1993) from Iran. Coenagrion ponticum thus entered molecular analysis for the first time. Coenagrion australocaspicum appeared divergent from the rest of the group. Coenagrion ponticum appeared inside the cluster of C. pulchellum while C. persicum outside it, so the species status of the former is challenged while that of the latter confirmed. The joint tree showed two clades in C. puella (with no difference in outer characters), one composed of specimens originating from the regions to the south of the Main Caucasian Range and from the Caspian areas of Dagestan including foothills, and the other with specimens from Inner Dagestan (plus one locality in the Caspian-faced foothills), West Caucasus, Western Europe, Ural and West Siberia.
Species distribution ranges of Ilyocryptus Sars, 1862 (Cladocera: Ilyocryptidae) fit the transitional zone between Boreal and Tropical Provinces in the Far East
Authors: KOTOV ALEXEY A. , GARIBIAN PETR G. , DADYKIN IVAN A. , GUSAKOV VLADIMIR A. , ÐỊNH CÙ NGUYÊN , TIẾN TRẦN VĂN , JI GAOHUA , SHIEL RUSSELL J.
Published: June 2024

In previous papers, it was shown that the Far East is a territory where moving south, Boreal fauna is fluently changed to Tropical fauna. Kotov (2016) proposed to place all taxa from the northern portion of Far East in several faunistic complexes according to the area of their differentiation in the past, i.e. in Pleistocene refugia. But many daphniids and chydorids were placed in an artificial group of non-revised taxa rather than a certain faunistic complex. Ilyocryptids are less numerous and better studied, and they could be used as a model group to test such an approach. Totally, 10 species were found in the Far East: from the very common I. spinifer group, the relatively common I. acutifrons, I agilis, I. yooni, I. raridentatus and I. cuneatus to the very rare I. cf. bhardwaji, I. isanensis, I. thailandensis and I. uenoi. Note that four species are found in Vietnam for the first time, namely, I. isanensis, I. cf. raridentatus, I. thailandensis and I. yooni. In contrast to the aforementioned daphniids and chydorids, ten Far Eastern ilyocryptid taxa accurately fit three faunistic complexes: WE—widely distributed in North Eurasia; ST—southern tropical; EN—Far Eastern endemic. Ilyocryptid distribution fits well with the “wide transitional zone concept” between “Palaearctic” (in reality, we have found that its separation within the Holarctic does not work well for the cladocerans) and Oriental zones, and such our conclusion is made based on the analysis of the adequately known group.
Three new species of Pomphopsilla Jałoszyński in Togo (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Scydmaeninae)
Authors: JAŁOSZYŃSKI PAWEŁ
Published: June 2024

The cephenniine genus Pomphopsilla currently comprises twelve nominal species distributed in Burundi, DR Congo, Kenya, Rwanda and the Seychelles. Three new species are described, all based on specimens collected in Togo: P. spinosa sp. n., P. bifurcata sp. n. and P. klotoensis sp. n. The distribution of Pomphopsilla is summarized.
Beyond the Rings: Exploring the Cultural and Behavioral Impact of the 2024 Paris Olympics
Authors: Galily Yair , Spaaij Ramón , McGannon Kerry R.
Published: June 2024

The Olympic Games stand as a pinnacle of human achievement, captivating global attention for over a century. Beyond the remarkable athletic displays, they serve as a rich tapestry for studying the intricate interplay of psychology, sociology, politics, and behavior. The forthcoming 2024 Paris Olympics offer a unique lens to probe deeper into these phenomena, serving as a catalyst for cutting-edge research across disciplines. This special issue of American Behavioral Scientist aims to illuminate the multifaceted dimensions of the Games, exploring their profound implications on human behavior, performance, identity, media, culture, and statecraft.
Complex In Vitro Model Characterization for Context of Use in Toxicologic Pathology: Use Cases by Collaborative Teams of Biologists, Bioengineers, and Pathologists
Authors: Stokar-Regenscheit Nadine , Bell Luisa , Berridge Brian , Rudmann Daniel , Tagle Danilo , Hargrove-Grimes Passley , Schaudien Dirk , Hahn Kerstin , Kühnlenz Julia , Ashton Randolph S. , Tseng Min , Reichelt Mike , Laing Steven T. , Kiyota Tomomi , Chamanza Ronnie , Sura Radhakrishna , Tomlinson Lindsay
Published: June 2024

Complex in vitro models (CIVMs) offer the potential to increase the clinical relevance of preclinical efficacy and toxicity assessments and reduce the reliance on animals in drug development. The European Society of Toxicologic Pathology (ESTP) and Society for Toxicologic Pathology (STP) are collaborating to highlight the role of pathologists in the development and use of CIVM. Pathologists are trained in comparative animal medicine which enhances their understanding of mechanisms of human and animal diseases, thus allowing them to bridge between animal models and humans. This skill set is important for CIVM development, validation, and data interpretation. Ideally, diverse teams of scientists, including engineers, biologists, pathologists, and others, should collaboratively develop and characterize novel CIVM, and collectively assess their precise use cases (context of use). Implementing a morphological CIVM evaluation should be essential in this process. This requires robust histological technique workflows, image analysis techniques, and needs correlation with translational biomarkers. In this review, we demonstrate how such tissue technologies and analytics support the development and use of CIVM for drug efficacy and safety evaluations. We encourage the scientific community to explore similar options for their projects and to engage with health authorities on the use of CIVM in benefit-risk assessment.
Associations of Depression and Cognition in Acute, Chronic, and Recurrent Cerebrovascular Accidents: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Bhogaraju Anand , Gopichand Sreevani
Published: June 2024

Background:

About 10% of first-time strokes and 30% of recurrent strokes develop into post-stroke cognitive impairment and are severe when associated with post-stroke depression.

Objectives:

To examine the association of depression and cognitive impairment in patients after a stroke in acute, subacute, or chronic phases.

Methods:

Cross-sectional data of CT/MRI brain-confirmed stroke patients was obtained after protocol approval by the ethics committee. Socio-demographic data, the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ9), the Addenbrooke Cognitive Examination (ACE3), and the Barthel Index for Activities of Daily Living were administered. Normality assumptions and frequencies with percentages were assessed for continuous data. One-way ANOVA for group comparisons and Spearman’s nonparametric correlation with matrix plot display were done.

Results:

Stroke patients (13 with acute, 8 each with chronic and recurrent) aged 46–80 years were recruited. Higher Barthel Index scores across all groups were seen. Mean PHQ9 scores were in the moderate depression range with no differences among groups. The mean (SD) ACE3 attention score in acute cerebrovascular accident (CVA), 13.62 (2.76), was significantly higher than in chronic CVA, 9.63 (5.50). ACE3 language score was 20.15 (3.72) in acute CVA and 14.75 (6.84) in chronic CVA. Significant negative correlations were seen in ACE3 Memory in acute –.56 and in chronic cases- Attention –.76, Memory –.79, Fluency –.76. All CVA groups had moderate depression. Chronic CVA impacts cognition associated with depression more than other groups.

Conclusion:

The study shows a need for the assessment of cognitive impairments and depression for CVAs even where activities of daily living were better.
Re-positionings and reductions: A case of curriculum evolution in senior secondary music in Victoria, Australia
Authors: Crawford Renée , Southcott Jane
Published: June 2024

The impact of neoliberal and postmodern agendas on teaching and learning is explored in this paper through a systematic document analysis of the case of current and recent curricula for the Victorian Certificate of Education Study Designs for Music spanning accreditation periods 2011 to 2027. Careful reading and analysis were conducted to develop emerging themes that revealed patterns of reinvention. It was found that changing language and expectations are intended to be broadly inclusive and focused on student wellbeing. Despite this seemingly noble shift in focus driven by curriculum reform, there is an undercurrent of curriculum reduction and marginalisation that glosses over musically specific terminology, difficult knowledge, understanding and practice. The situation in Victoria, Australia is not unique, but a careful analysis and consideration of this serious issue will reassure school music educators that they are experiencing considerable challenge driven by neoliberal and postmodern agendas. This paper is intended to offer insight and possibly raise caution to those in positions of authority and influence concerning curriculum design and expectations about senior music education.
Life Journeys and Influential Contributions of Six Marketing Visionaries
Authors: Basalingappa Anita , Namboodiri Sooraj
Published: June 2024

This article is about the life journeys and influential contributions of six marketing visionaries: Wroe Alderson, Robert Bartels, Philip Kotler, Michael Baker, Jagdish Sheth, and Shelby Hunt. Drawing from a range of sources including research journals, biographies, autobiographies, popular press articles, personal websites, and curriculum vitae, the study examines: 1) Personal Life, 2) Education and Career, and 3) Key Contributions to Academia and Society. This exploration informs how the visionaries have shaped the field of marketing, each leaving a distinct legacy that continues to influence contemporary marketing practices. By presenting a multifaceted understanding of their life journeys and contributions, this article serves as an invaluable resource to comprehend the human beings behind the research that may have shaped their influential contributions to the marketing discipline.
Comparison of staining quality between rapid and routine hematoxylin and eosin staining of frozen breast tissue sections: an observational study
Authors: Ma Zhen Yi , Zhang Xiao Fang , Hu Yan Ze , Zhu Min Da , Jin Jia , Qian Ping
Published: June 2024

Objective

To compare the staining quality between rapid hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and routine H&E staining of frozen breast tissue sections.

Methods

In this cross-sectional observational study, 120 frozen breast tissue sections were randomly assigned to rapid or routine H&E staining ( n = 60 per group). Rapid H&E staining used a 7:1 mixture of modified Gill’s hematoxylin and alcohol-soluble 1% eosin Y. The staining quality of each section was evaluated and scored. A score of >7 was considered excellent, a score of 6 to 7 good, and a score of ≤5 poor.

Results

The staining time for rapid staining was approximately 3 minutes, whereas that of routine staining was approximately 12 minutes. There were no significant differences in the staining quality scores or proportions of sections in each grade between the two staining methods. The proportions of sections that were classified as excellent or good were 96.7% and 98.3% for rapid and routine staining, respectively.

Conclusions

In frozen breast tissue sections, rapid H&E staining may provide staining quality that is comparable to that of routine staining, while markedly reducing the staining time.
Preventing Trivialization of Global Social Justice Discourse: A Framework of Critical Social Media Literacy
Authors: Hayvon John C.
Published: June 2024

Growing scholarship emphasizes social media as potential platforms to facilitate social justice discourse, while others document simultaneous polarization and trivialization. With the objective of supporting educators, students, and community members, this article conceptualizes a framework of critical social media literacy (CSML) based upon Freirean pedagogy. While social media platforms exist in diverse formats, social media numbers in the form of likes, shares, and views emerge as common elements to influence social justice ideologies. Building upon this preliminary conceptualization, the framework proposes that students may benefit from understanding how social media numbers can: grant automatic, unfounded legitimacy; be mobilized toward not social justice but the pursuit of profit; be a prerequisite for visibility of content; replace critical thinking as ubiquitous metrics; lead to false sense of disorienting dilemmas; facilitate antagonization of nuanced perspectives; encourage conformity; and be directly purchased. Implications on conformity—and expanded thinking for students—conclude the study.
Evaluation of Sequential Oral Versus Intravenous Antibiotic Treatment of Enterococcus faecalis Bloodstream Infections
Authors: Loudermilk Carly , Eudy Joshua , Albrecht Stephanie , Slaton Cara N. , Stramel Stefanie , Tu Patrick , Albrecht Benjamin , Green Sarah B. , Bouchard Jeannette L. , Orvin Alison I. , Caveness Christian F. , Newsome Andrea Sikora , Bland Christopher M. , Anderson Daniel T.
Published: June 2024

Background:

Intravenous (IV) antibiotics have historically been considered standard of care for treatment of bloodstream infections (BSIs). Recent literature has shown sequential oral (PO) therapy to be noninferior to IV antibiotics for certain pathogens and disease states. However, a gap exists in the literature for BSI caused by Enterococcus faecalis.

Objective:

To compare outcomes of definitive sequential PO therapy to definitive IV therapy in patients with E faecalis BSI.

Methods:

Multicenter, retrospective, matched cohort study of adult patients with at least one blood culture positive for E faecalis from January 2017 to November 2022. Patients with polymicrobial BSI, concomitant infections requiring prolonged IV antibiotic therapy, those who did not receive antibiotic therapy, and those who died within 72 hours of index culture were excluded. Subjects were matched based on source of infection in a 2:1 (IV:PO) ratio. The primary outcome was a composite of all-cause mortality and treatment failure. Secondary outcomes included hospital length of stay (LOS), antibiotic duration, and 30-day readmission rate.

Results:

Of the 186 patients who met criteria for inclusion, there was no statistically significant difference in the primary composite outcome for PO compared to IV therapy (14.5% vs 21.8%; OR 0.53 [0.23-1.25]) or 30-day readmission (17.5% vs 29%; OR 0.53 [0.25-1.13]). Hospital LOS was significantly longer in patients receiving IV-only therapy (6 days vs 14 days; P < 0.001).

Conclusion and Relevance:

Sequential oral therapy for E faecalis BSI had similar outcomes compared to IV-only treatment and may be considered in eligible patients.
Strategies for Evaluating Collective Impact Initiatives: Lessons Learned from a Community-Academic Partnership
Authors: DeZelar Margaret , Burns Maureen T.S. , Rosania Kimberly , Bohnert Amy M.
Published: June 2024

Collective impact (CI) initiatives provide a promising collaborative community-based approach for addressing health disparities, but they are challenging to evaluate. This paper provides a detailed strategy for addressing these challenges through a case study, with the goal of not only of evaluating the CI, but also putting organizations in a position to implement and maintain sustainable self-evaluation efforts over time. A three-phase evaluation strategy was developed and implemented via a community-academic partnership to assess the impact of the CI. Process and outcome data from a CI to address health disparities in a Chicago community were collected and analyzed. The evaluation strategy, following the developmental, formative, and summative phases, helped a CI overcome barriers and build capacity for ongoing evaluative work for its members. Considering the flexible, low-technology approach, this strategy is a valuable resource in assisting individuals seeking to create a successful and sustainable CI evaluation.
Social connectedness and loneliness in school for autistic and allistic children
Authors: Tsou Yung-Ting , Nasri Maedeh , Li Boya , Blijd-Hoogewys Els M A , Baratchi Mitra , Koutamanis Alexander , Rieffe Carolien
Published: June 2024

Autistic children are often reported less socially connected, while recent studies show autistic children experiencing more loneliness in school than allistic (i.e. non-autistic) children, contradicting the traditional view that autistic children lack social motivation. This study aimed to understand individual differences in how social connectedness is construed, between and within groups of autistic and allistic pupils, using a multimethod approach. Forty-seven autistic and 52 neurodiverse-allistic classmates from two special primary schools participated (8–13 years). Proximity sensors worn by pupils on playgrounds during recess measured (1) total time in face-to-face contacts, (2) number of contact partners, and (3) centrality in playground networks. Peer reports measured (4) reciprocal friendships and (5) centrality in classmate networks. To evaluate their feelings of connectedness, pupils rated the level of loneliness in school. Compared with allistic pupils, autistic pupils had fewer reciprocal friendships, but similar total time in social contacts, number of partners, classmate/playground centrality, and levels of loneliness. Lower levels of loneliness related to higher classmate centrality in autistic children, but longer time in social contacts in allistic children. For these autistic children, being liked as part of a peer group seems essential. Understanding relevant differences in children’s needs could lead to a more welcoming school climate.

Lay abstract

Many previous studies reported that autistic children have fewer social connections. Yet, recent studies also show that autistic children more often feel lonely in school than allistic (i.e. non-autistic) children. This outcome seems to go against the traditional view that autistic children do not desire to have social connections. Therefore, this study aimed to find out how autistic and allistic children feel about their social connections. We included 47 autistic and 52 neurodiverse-allistic children from two special education primary schools (aged 8–13 years). We tested their social connections and loneliness in school, through a new approach. This new approach includes questionnaires, and sensors for tracking social contacts on playgrounds during school breaks. We found that allistic children felt more loneliness when they spent little time in social contacts during school breaks. Yet, autistic children felt more loneliness when their peers did not like to play with them. For these autistic children, feelings of loneliness may go beyond face-to-face contacts. Being liked as part of a peer group was key. Understanding differences in children’s needs can lead to a more effective design for a welcoming school climate.
Shear resistance test analysis and calculation method of shear capacity of UHPC-NC beam without web reinforcement
Authors: Sun Xiangdong , Ma Yuquan , Ji Zhenming , Fan Xueming , Wu Honglin
Published: June 2024

In order to study the failure phenomenon and shear resistance performance of UHPC-NC beams without web reinforcement, shear resistance tests were carried out on 15 UHPC-NC beams without web reinforcement. The variation parameters were shear span ratio, web thickness, steel fiber content, and compressive stress level. The load-deflection curve, failure phenomenon and crack development of the test beam are analyzed. The test results show that the joint between the top plate and the bottom plate of UHPC-NC I-beam without web reinforcement is the weakest, and the cracked web is easy to be “cut off” at the joint; The “banding crack area” of web is closely related to the shear span ratio, and the width of ribbon area increases with the increase of shear span ratio. The shear capacity of UHPC-NC I-beam without web reinforcement decreases with the increase of shear-span ratio. The shear capacity increases with the increase of web thickness and compressive stress level. The shear capacity has little relationship with steel fiber content, and the initial stiffness of the structure can be improved by applying prestress. Finally, considering the influence of the top slab compression-shear zone and the bottom slab tension-shear zone on the shear capacity of UHPC-NC prestressed composite beams without web reinforcement, the corresponding calculation method of shear capacity is given based on the modified compression field theory and the idea of sub-item superposition, and the applicability of the calculation method is verified by the test results.
The College Student Adaptive and Maladaptive Academic Behaviors Scale: Development, Reliability, and Validity
Authors: Fletcher Anne C. , Alligood Brittany N. , Jensen Michaeline , Vrshek-Schallhorn Suzanne
Published: June 2024

The purpose of this study was to validate a new measure of undergraduate college students’ responses to perceived academic difficulties, the College Student Adaptative and Maladaptive Academic Behaviors Scale (CSAMABS). Participants were undergraduate college students assessed at two timepoints ( N = 598). Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis and associated modifications to items resulted in three subscales indicative of avoidance behaviors, active engagement, and academic support seeking, each with strong internal consistency and test–retest reliability. Avoidance behaviors were positively associated with both procrastination and cognitive behavioral avoidance. Students scoring lower on avoidance and higher on active engagement had higher cumulative grade point averages (GPAs) both at the end of the semester in which data were collected and at the end of the following semester. Support seeking was unassociated with GPA at either timepoint. The CSAMABS is a reliable and valid measure of responses to perceived academic difficulties specific to the postsecondary context.
Basic assessment of chronic cough in primary care and referral pathways of patients to different specialists: plain language summary of publication
Authors: Domingo Christian , Gonzálvez-Rey Jaime , Dávila Ignacio , del Cuvillo Alfonso , Sánchez-Jareño Marta , Cea-Calvo Luis , Naberan Karlos
Published: June 2024

People with chronic cough (a cough lasting more than 8 weeks) are often referred to different specialists and undergo numerous diagnostic tests, but clear guidance is lacking. This work summarizes a consensus (an agreement) among medical specialists who are involved in managing people with chronic cough: primary care physicians (family doctors), pulmonologists (doctors who specialize in lung conditions), allergists (medical professionals specializing in allergies) and ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialists. They discussed how to perform a basic assessment of people with chronic cough in primary care (day-to-day healthcare given by a general practitioner or family doctor) and how to refer them to different specialists based on clinical findings or test results.
Antidiabetic, Antihyperlipidemic, Antioxidant Effects and Regulation of miRNA Expression byDianthus orientalisAdams Extract in Diabetic rat Model
Authors: Ahmed Vian Abubaker , Rahman Heshu Sulaiman , Mohammed Raheem Mohammed Omer , Othman Hemn Hassan , Algarawi Maha , Ibnaouf Khalid Hassan
Published: June 2024

Background: The Mediterranean area is a diversity center for the genus Dianthus. However, species belonging to this genus, including Dianthus orientalis Adams (DOA), have not been investigated for their medicinal activities. Objectives: To investigate antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic, antioxidant effects and molecular mechanism of D. orientalis Adams leaf extract (DOAE) in an animal model. Materials and methods: The plant leaves were collected from July to August 2021 from Penjween district, Sulaimaniyah, Iraq and then identified, authenticated, shadow-dried, and extracted using pure methanol. Thirty rats were divided randomly into 5 groups of 6 animals each. Group 1 was control negative (CN) and received distilled water (DW). Group 2 was diabetic control (DC) that received DW, while group 3 was control positive (CP) treated with Glibenclamide (GLB, 0.6 mg/kg body weight). Groups 4 and 5 were diabetic rats who received a low-dose (30 mg/kg) and a high-dose (90 mg/kg) of DOAE orally for 4 weeks. Then, lipid profile, total antioxidant capacity, histopathological examinations, and molecular studies were conducted. Results: DOAE was more effective than GLB in reducing blood glucose, lipid parameters, liver enzymes, and renal function. Micromorphological assay of livers, kidneys, and pancreas revealed significant restoration in diabetic groups treated with DOAE (90 mg/kg) and GLB compared to the DC group. Microribonuclic acid-21 (miR-21) was significantly expressed in DC but markedly lowered in both DOAE groups, while miR-24 and miR-126 were significantly suppressed in DC and expressed in the DOAE-treated groups. Conclusions: DOAE exerted significant antihyperglycemic, anti-dyslipidemic, antioxidant, and hepatorenal protective effects in diabetic rats.
Perspectives of Family Caregivers on Healthcare Provided to Older Adults With Hypertension and/or Diabetes Mellitus in Ghana
Authors: Boateng Edward Appiah , Agyapomah Rosemary , Amankwaa Isaac , Dzomeku Veronica Millicent , Peprah Lawrencia Oppong
Published: June 2024

This study explored the perspectives of family caregivers of older adults with hypertension and/or diabetes mellitus on the care provided to their kin when they visit the hospital. A qualitative research approach was used to conduct the study using family members providing informal care for older adults with hypertension and/or diabetes mellitus at a teaching hospital in Ghana. A total of 20 participants were purposively sampled, interviewed, and data was analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Family caregivers mainly had perceptions that their older adult kin had poor interactions with the healthcare system because of some healthcare workers’ negative attitudes, inadequate facilities at the clinics, and lack of geriatric care services at the facility. This notwithstanding, family caregivers also derived some benefits from accompanying their kin to the hospital. Practice and education in gerontological nursing must be employed to pragmatically meet the unique healthcare needs of older adults in Ghana with a focus on geriatrics units and standalone programs of study to prepare specialized healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive services to older adults. For a thorough understanding of issues of older adult care in the country, their perspectives on this subject should also be explored in future studies.
The Demographic Intersection of Age, Race, and Immigrant Composition in the United States
Authors: Brooks Matthew M.
Published: June 2024

This visualization illustrates the proportion of U.S. residents at every age between 0 and 80 years who are foreign born and native born. The author uses a robust cross-sectional sample from the 2022 American Community Survey and groups individuals into nine distinct racial and ethnic (i.e., ethnoracial) groups. Following demographic expectations, age-specific immigrant shares of the total population are largest in midlife. However, across different ethnoracial groups the pattern varies greatly. Among Hispanic White individuals, a presumed immigrant-dominant group, there is no age at which the majority of members are foreign born. Alternatively, among non-Hispanic Asians and Pacific Islanders, Hispanics from other races, and multiracial Hispanics, there is a clear divide between majority foreign-born and majority native-born age groups. These results show the strengths of disaggregating the Hispanic population and the need to consider the intersection of age, race, and immigration when formulating social policy.
Redlining, greenlining: Discourses of race and nature in Home Owners Loan Corporation neighborhood appraisals
Authors: Walker Rebecca H , Mandal Antara , Ramer Hannah , Keeler Bonnie L , Derickson Kate D , DeBellis Ruby
Published: June 2024

Studies drawing correlations between Home Owners Loan Corporation “redlining” maps and present-day environmental outcomes have raised public attention about the role of systemic racial discrimination in producing uneven outcomes in the urban environment. In this analysis, we draw on a novel data source—narrative descriptions of neighborhood characteristics included in the area descriptions that accompanied City Survey maps—to explore the mechanisms that historically link HOLC maps and disparate environmental quality. Focusing on nine mid-sized cities in the Midwest, we draw on a combined inductive and deductive coding approach to consider how perceived urban environmental quality and neighborhood racial demographics shaped assessments of neighborhood value and risk. In doing so, we illustrate the ways in which nature, class, and race were already coupled at the time of the HOLC City Survey. The area descriptions in the HOLC City Survey illustrate the ways in which this coupling became codified and reinforced over time through housing and environmental policies, the impacts of which we still struggle to disrupt today.
Potential Risk Factors for Predicting Fetal Shoulder Dystocia
Authors: Köse Caner , Karataş Baran Gonca , Özbek İbrahim Mert , Yilmaz Ergani Seval , Varli Erol Nadi , Karadeniz Rahmi Sinan , Engin Üstun Yaprak
Published: June 2024

Objective:

The aim of this study was to assess maternal, obstetric, and fetal risk factors, as well as shoulder dystocia (SD) maneuvers and perinatal outcomes, in the management of SD.

Materials and Methods:

This descriptive retrospective cross-sectional study analyzed 66 documented patient cases of SD from a pool of 36 390 singleton vaginal deliveries. This review was based on hospital deliveries that occurred between 2017 and 2022. In addition, 201 control cases were selected from a computer-assisted randomization program, which were based pregnancy, delivery, fetal, and newborn outcome data. Regression analysis was used to elucidate the relationship between SD and associated risk factors.

Results:

The SD group exhibited a significantly higher mean age ( p < .05) compared with control group. Notably, the abdominal circumference (AC) measurement (sensitivity = 81.8% and specificity = 91.0%) and birth weight (sensitivity = 62.4% and specificity = 91.5%) emerged as the most significant risk factors for SD.

Conclusion:

These retrospective findings may suggest that aside from birth weight and AC measurements, other risk factors for SD demonstrate low sensitivity. This work also underscored the unpredictable nature of this obstetric complication.
Hypersensitivity to BKCa channel opening in persistent post-traumatic headache
Authors: Al-Khazali Haidar M. , Christensen Rune H. , Dodick David W. , Chaudhry Basit Ali , Melchior Anna G. , Burstein Rami , Ashina Håkan
Published: June 2024

Background

Large conductance  calcium-activated potassium (BKCa) channels have been implicated in the neurobiological underpinnings of migraine. Considering the clinical similarities between migraine and persistent post-traumatic headache (PPTH), we aimed to examine whether MaxiPost (a BKCa channel opener) could induce migraine-like headache in persons with PPTH.

Methods

This is a randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled, two-way crossover study from September 2023 to December 2023. Eligible participants were adults with PPTH after mild traumatic brain injury who reported having no personal history of migraine. The randomized participants received a single dose of either MaxiPost (0.05 mg/min) or placebo (isotonic saline) that was infused intravenously over 20 minutes. The two experiment sessions were scheduled at least one week apart to avoid potential carryover effects. The primary endpoint was the induction of migraine-like headache after MaxiPost as compared to placebo within 12 hours of drug administration. The secondary endpoint was the area under the curve (AUC) values for headache intensity scores between MaxiPost and placebo over the same 12-hour observation period.

Results

Twenty-one adult participants (comprising 14 females and 7 males) with PPTH were enrolled and completed both experiment sessions. The proportion of participants who developed migraine-like headache was 11 (52%) of 21 participants after MaxiPost infusion, in contrast to four (19%) participants following placebo (P = .02). Furthermore, the median headache intensity scores, represented by AUC values, were higher following MaxiPost than after placebo (P < .001).

Conclusions

Our results indicate that BKCa channel opening can elicit migraine-like headache in persons with PPTH. Thus, pharmacologic blockade of BKCa channels might present a novel avenue for drug discovery. Additional investigations are nonetheless needed to confirm these insights and explore the therapeutic prospects of BKCa channel blockers in managing PPTH.

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier

NCT05378074.
Comparative mitochondrial genomics in Nematoda reveal astonishing variation in compositional biases and substitution rates indicative of multi-level selection
Authors: Gendron Eli M. S. , Qing Xue , Sevigny Joseph L. , Li Hongmei , Liu Zhiyin , Blaxter Mark , Powers Thomas O. , Thomas W. Kelly , Porazinska Dorota L.
Published: June 2024

Background

Nematodes are the most abundant and diverse metazoans on Earth, and are known to significantly affect ecosystem functioning. A better understanding of their biology and ecology, including potential adaptations to diverse habitats and lifestyles, is key to understanding their response to global change scenarios. Mitochondrial genomes offer high species level characterization, low cost of sequencing, and an ease of data handling that can provide insights into nematode evolutionary pressures.

Results

Generally, nematode mitochondrial genomes exhibited similar structural characteristics (e.g., gene size and GC content), but displayed remarkable variability around these general patterns. Compositional strand biases showed strong codon position specific G skews and relationships with nematode life traits (especially parasitic feeding habits) equal to or greater than with predicted phylogeny. On average, nematode mitochondrial genomes showed low non-synonymous substitution rates, but also high clade specific deviations from these means. Despite the presence of significant mutational saturation, non-synonymous (dN) and synonymous (dS) substitution rates could still be significantly explained by feeding habit and/or habitat. Low ratios of dN:dS rates, particularly associated with the parasitic lifestyles, suggested the presence of strong purifying selection.

Conclusions

Nematode mitochondrial genomes demonstrated a capacity to accumulate diversity in composition, structure, and content while still maintaining functional genes. Moreover, they demonstrated a capacity for rapid evolutionary change pointing to a potential interaction between multi-level selection pressures and rapid evolution. In conclusion, this study helps establish a background for our understanding of the potential evolutionary pressures shaping nematode mitochondrial genomes, while outlining likely routes of future inquiry.
Effect of preharvest biofilm application regimes on cracking and fruit quality traits in ‘0900 Ziraat’ sweet cherry cultivar
Authors: Ozturk Burhan , Akkaya Husrev , Aglar Erdal , Saracoglu Onur
Published: June 2024

Background

Fruit cracking impacts the quality of sweet cherry, significantly affecting its marketability due to increased susceptibility to injury, aesthetic flaws, and susceptibility to pathogens. The effect of 1% biofilm (Parka™) application regimes on fruit cracking and other quality parameters in the ‘0900 Ziraat’ cherry cultivar was investigated in this study. Fruit sprayed with water were served as control (U1). Fruit treated only once with biofilm three, two and one week before the commercial harvest were considered as U2, U3 and U4, respectively. Fruit treated with biofilm three, two, and one week before harvest were considered as U5; three and two week before harvest as U6; two and one week before harvest as U7; and fruit treated three and one week before harvest as U8.

Results

In both measurement periods, the lower cracking index was obtained in biofilm-treated sweet cherry fruit. However, the firmness of biofilm-treated fruit was higher than that of the control fruit. The lowest respiration rate was observed in U7, while the highest weight was recorded in U4 and U5 than the control. The biofilm application decreased fruit coloration. The biofilm application also increased the soluble solids content of the fruit. The U2, U3 and U4 applications at harvest showed higher titratable acidity than the control. In both measurement periods, the vitamin C content of the U2, U5, U6, U7 and U8 applications was found to be higher than that of the control. The total monomeric anthocyanin of the U3 and U8 applications was higher than that of the control. Furthermore, the antioxidant activity of the U2, U3 and U5 in the DPPH, and the U7 and U8 in FRAP were measured higher thanthat of the control.

Conclusions

The application of biofilms has the potential to mitigate fruit cracking, prolong postharvest life of sweet cherries, and enhance fruit firmness.
Enhancing saline stress tolerance in soybean seedlings through optimal NH4+/NO3− ratios: a coordinated regulation of ions, hormones, and antioxidant potential
Authors: Noor Javaria , Ahmad Izhar , Ullah Abd , Iqbal Babar , Anwar Shazma , Jalal Arshad , Okla Mohammad K. , Alaraidh Ibrahim A. , Abdelgawad Hamada , Fahad Shah
Published: June 2024

Background

Nitrogen (N) availability is crucial in regulating plants’ abiotic stress resistance, particularly at the seedling stage. Nevertheless, plant responses to N under salinity conditions may vary depending on the soil’s NH4+to NO3−ratio.

Methods

In this study, we investigated the effects of different NH4+:NO3−ratios (100/0, 0/100, 25/75, 50/50, and 75/25) on the growth and physio-biochemical responses of soybean seedlings grown under controlled and saline stress conditions (0-, 50-, and 100-mM L− 1NaCl and Na2SO4, at a 1:1 molar ratio).

Results

We observed that shoot length, root length, and leaf-stem-root dry weight decreased significantly with increased saline stress levels compared to control. Moreover, there was a significant accumulation of Na+, Cl−, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and malondialdehyde (MDA) but impaired ascorbate-glutathione pools (AsA-GSH). They also displayed lower photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll-a and chlorophyll-b), K+ion, K+/Na+ratio, and weakened O2•−-H2O2-scavenging enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase, monodehydroascorbate reductase, glutathione reductase under both saline stress levels, while reduced ascorbate peroxidase, and dehydroascorbate reductase under 100-mM stress, demonstrating their sensitivity to a saline environment. Moreover, the concentrations of proline, glycine betaine, total phenolic, flavonoids, and abscisic acid increased under both stresses compared to the control. They also exhibited lower indole acetic acid, gibberellic acid, cytokinins, and zeatine riboside, which may account for their reduced biomass. However, NH4+:NO3−ratios caused a differential response to alleviate saline stress toxicity. Soybean seedlings supplemented with optimal ratios of NH4+:NO3−(T3 = 25:75 and T = 4 50:50) displayed lower Na+and Cl−and ABA but improved K+and K+/Na+, pigments, growth hormones, and biomass compared to higher NH4+:NO3−ratios. They also exhibited higher O2•−-H2O2-scavenging enzymes and optimized H2O2, MDA, and AsA-GSH pools status in favor of the higher biomass of seedlings.

Conclusions

In summary, the NH4+ and NO3−ratios followed the order of 50:50 > 25:75 > 0:100 > 75:25 > 100:0 for regulating the morpho-physio-biochemical responses in seedlings under SS conditions. Accordingly, we suggest that applying optimal ratios of NH4+and NO3−(25/75 and 50:50) can improve the resistance of soybean seedlings grown in saline conditions.
Use of 3D-CT-derived psoas major muscle volume in defining sarcopenia in colorectal cancer
Authors: Takahashi Makoto , Sakamoto Kazuhiro , Kogure Yosuke , Nojiri Shuko , Tsuchiya Yuki , Honjo Kumpei , Kawai Masaya , Ishiyama Shun , Sugimoto Kiichi , Nagakari Kunihiko , Tomiki Yuichi
Published: June 2024

Background

Sarcopenia is characterized by reduced skeletal muscle volume and is a condition that is prevalent among elderly patients and associated with poor prognosis as a comorbidity in malignancies. Given the aging population over 80 years old in Japan, an understanding of malignancies, including colorectal cancer (CRC), complicated by sarcopenia is increasingly important. Therefore, the focus of this study is on a novel and practical diagnostic approach of assessment of psoas major muscle volume (PV) using 3-dimensional computed tomography (3D-CT) in diagnosis of sarcopenia in patients with CRC.

Methods

The subjects were 150 patients aged ≥ 80 years with CRC who underwent primary tumor resection at Juntendo University Hospital between 2004 and 2017. 3D-CT measurement of PV and conventional CT measurement of the psoas major muscle cross-sectional area (PA) were used to identify sarcopenia (group S) and non-sarcopenia (group nS) cases. Clinicopathological characteristics, operative results, postoperative complications, and prognosis were compared between these groups.

Results

The S:nS ratios were 15:135 for the PV method and 52:98 for the PA method. There was a strong positive correlation (r = 0.66, p < 0.01) between PVI (psoas major muscle volume index) and PAI (psoas major muscle cross-sectional area index), which were calculated by dividing PV or PA by the square of height. Surgical results and postoperative complications did not differ significantly in the S and nS groups defined using each method. Overall survival was worse in group S compared to group nS identified by PV (p < 0.01), but not significantly different in groups S and nS identified by PA (p = 0.77). A Cox proportional hazards model for OS identified group S by PV as an independent predictor of a poor prognosis (p < 0.05), whereas group S by PA was not a predictor of prognosis (p = 0.60).

Conclusions

The PV method for identifying sarcopenia in elderly patients with CRC is more practical and sensitive for prediction of a poor prognosis compared to the conventional method.