bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
International Monetary Implications of a Germanized Eurozone
Authors: Steinberg Federico
Published: January 2024

This paper explores the implications of the survival of the euro for the international monetary system (IMS). Since the outset of the euro zone (EZ) crisis, a new Berlin-Frankfurt axis is providing leadership in reforming the EZ´s governance. But, in doing so, it is Germanizing EZ peripheral economies. If the process is successfully completed, the EZ would become a more powerful actor in the IMS and the euro would be more attractive for international investors. However, it is unclear if this stronger EZ would be a stabilizing or a destabilizing force for the IMS. On the one hand, a more “German” EZ could have a structural current account surplus, and that could be deflationary and problematic. On the other hand, this reborn EZ will be much more inclined to regulate financial markets (following the ordoliberal German tradition) and, to some extent, to manage exchange rates. Finally it is unclear to what extent the EZ would be willing to politically promote the international role of the euro.
La estrategia multilateral para la política de competencia internacional. Una propuesta sobre los hard core cartels
Authors: García José Luis
Published: January 2024

El presente trabajo aborda la problemática de la política de competencia internacional bajo el prisma de la solución multilateral. A partir de la inconsistencia que supone la regulación nacional para mercados globales, y dada la resistencia de los estados a ceder soberanía en el ámbito de la política de competencia, exploramos cómo podría configurarse un organismo internacional para la detección e investigación de la única práctica restrictiva para la que existe consenso inter-jurisdiccional sobre sus efectos dañinos para la economía: los hard core cartels. En concreto, planteamos la creación de un Servicio de Investigación internacional y analizamos el modo en que éste desempeñaría sus funciones en la práctica.
Zona euro: sucesión de crisis mal resueltas que cuestionan la cohesión social y la democracia
Authors: Rodriguez Ortiz Francisco
Published: January 2024

La crisis financiera ha desembocado en una crisis económica y social que supone una ruptura definitiva con el régimen de acumulación fordista. La gestión de las crisis por parte de las autoridades nacionales y europeas contribuye a agravar las debilidades de las economías europeas y, como se observa, resulta contraproducente para reducir los niveles de déficit y de deuda. Pero, ¿es dicha reducción el objetivo realmente perseguido?
Financialisation in the Post-Yugoslav Region: Monetary Policy, Credit Money and Dollarization.
Authors: Zivkovic Andreja
Published: January 2024

This paper considers long term processes of financialisation in the former and post-Yugoslavia in relation to the global emergence of financialisation. Regional monetary policy has since the 1980s defended the value of credit money in order to facilitate international capital flows. It is argued that the monetary system of fixed exchange rates, inflation targeting and capital account liberalisation has engineered the subordinate financialisation and dollarization of the region. The present debt crisis is seen as crisis of financialised capitalism and a crisis of European integration before formal European integration, mirroring that of the Eurozone periphery
Hubungan Pola Makan Dengan Kekambuhan Gastritis Pada Masyarakat di Wilayah Kerja Pustu Mantimin
Authors: Herliyanti Herliyanti , Harun Lukman , Suwandewi Alit
Published: January 2024

Latar Belakang: Pola makan yang tidak teratur akan memicu lambung sulit beradaptasi, apabila hal ini berlangsung dalam waktu yang lama, asam lambung akan diproduksi berlebih yang dapat mengiritasi dinding lambung berdasarkan jurnal kedokteran 40% penderita gastritis disebabkan oleh stress karena masalah pekerjaan, masalah dalam rumah tangga, pola makan yang tidak teratur sehingga menyebabkan terjadinya frekuensi kekambuhan gastritis. Komplikasi Gastritis adalah, perdarahan, anemia pernisiosa, dan kanker lambung.
Tujuan: penelitian ini untuk mengetahui hubungan antara pola makan dengan kekambuhan gastritis pada masyarakat di wilayah kerja pustu mantimin
Metode: Penelitian ini menggunakan jenis penelitian kuantitatif studi korelasi dengan pendekatan cross sectional yaitu suatu penelitian untuk mempelajari hubungan antara dua variabel, dimana seluruh variabel yang diamati, di ukur pada saat penelitian berlangsung. variabel bebas yaitu pola makan dan variabel terikat yaitu terjadinya kekambuhan gastritis
Hasil: Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa ada hubungan antara pola makan dengan kekambuhan gastritis pada masyarakat di Wilayah Kerja Pustu Mantimin dengan hasil nilai Chi Square hitung 5.719 Chi Square Tabel 43.775 dengan hasil taraf sig 0,022 < 0.05. maka dapat disimpulkan bahwa Ha diterima dan Ho ditolak. Hal ini bermakna bahwa Terdapat hubungan antara pola makan dengan kekambuhan gastritis pada masyarakat di Wilayah Kerja Pustu Mantimin. Pada risk estimate untuk kekambuhan pada gastritis nilai odds ratio (OR) pada penelitian ini 150 yang bermakna evaluasi dari hubungan pola makan terhadap kekambuhan gastritis
Kesimpulan: pola makan yang kurang baik akan menyebabkan terjadinya kekambuhan gastritis pada masyarakat di Wilayah Kerja Pustu Mantimin
Origanum majorana L. polyphenols: in vivo antiepileptic effect, in silico evaluation of their bioavailability, and interaction with the NMDA receptor
Authors: Amaghnouje Amal , Chebaibi Mohamed , Aldossari Saeed M. , Ghneim Hazem K. , Amrati Fatima Ez-zahra , Es-Safi Imane , Di Cristo Francesca , Calarco Anna , Achour Sanae , Carta Fabrizio , Al-Sheikh Yazeed A. , Aboul-Soud Mourad A. M. , Bousta Dalila
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Epilepsy is a chronic brain disease characterized by repeated seizures and caused by excessive glutamate receptor activation. Many plants are traditionally used in the treatment of this disease. This study aimed to evaluate the bioavailability of a polyphenolic extract obtained from Origanum majorana L. (OMP) leaves, as well as its antiepileptic activity and its potential mechanism of action.

Methods: We have developed and validated a simple, rapid, and accurate stability-indicating reversed-phase liquid chromatographic method for the simultaneous determination of caffeine and quercetin in rat plasma. The OMP antiepileptic effect was evaluated with pilocarpine-induced seizures, and a docking method was used to determine the possible interaction between caffeic acid and quercetin with the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor.

Results and Discussion: Both compounds tested showed low bioavailability in unchanged form. However, the tested extract showed an anticonvulsant effect due to the considerably delayed onset of seizures in the pilocarpine model at a dose of 100 mg/kg. The molecular docking proved a high-affinity interaction between the caffeic acid and quercetin with the NMDA receptor. Taken together, OLP polyphenols demonstrated good antiepileptic activity, probably due to the interaction of quercetin, caffeic acid, or their metabolites with the NMDA receptor.
Application of adipose-derived stem cells in ischemic heart disease: theory, potency, and advantage
Authors: Xiao Weizhang , Shi Jiahai
Published: January 2024

Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) represent an innovative candidate to treat ischemic heart disease (IHD) due to their abundance, renewable sources, minor invasiveness to obtain, and no ethical limitations. Compared with other mesenchymal stem cells, ASCs have demonstrated great advantages, especially in the commercialization of stem cell-based therapy. Mechanistically, ASCs exert a cardioprotective effect not only through differentiation into functional cells but also via robust paracrine of various bioactive factors that promote angiogenesis and immunomodulation. Exosomes from ASCs also play an indispensable role in this process. However, due to the distinct biological functions of ASCs from different origins or donors with varing health statuses (such as aging, diabetes, or atherosclerosis), the heterogeneity of ASCs deserves more attention. This prompts scientists to select optimal donors for clinical applications. In addition, to overcome the primary obstacle of poor retention and low survival after transplantation, a variety of studies have been dedicated to the engineering of ASCs with biomaterials. Besides, clinical trials have confirmed the safety and efficacy of ASCs therapy in the context of heart failure or myocardial infarction. This article reviews the theory, efficacy, and advantages of ASCs-based therapy, the factors affecting ASCs function, heterogeneity, engineering strategies and clinical application of ASCs.
Efficacy and safety of insulin glargine 300 units/mL vs insulin degludec in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Alhmoud Eman N. , Saad Mohamed Omar , Omar Nabil Elhadi
Published: January 2024

Background

Ultra-long-acting insulin analogs [insulin degludec (IDeg) and insulin glargine 300 units/mL (IGla-300)] offer a longer duration of action with less risk of hypoglycemia compared to other long-acting insulins. However, data about the comparative efficacy and safety are inconsistent.

Methods

We searched CENTRAL, PubMed, Embase, ICTRP Search Portal, and ClinicalTrials.gov on 7 October 2022. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the safety and efficacy of IDeg (100 or 200 units/mL) and IGla-300 in patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes were included. Three review authors independently selected trials, assessed the risk of bias, extracted data, and evaluated the overall certainty of the evidence using GRADE. The primary outcomes were the change in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and any hypoglycemia; the secondary outcomes were the change in fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and severe and nocturnal hypoglycemia.

Results

Four open-label RCTs were included (2727 participants), 3 parallel and 1 cross-over. Overall, the risk of bias assessment yielded some concern or high risk. There was a comparable change in HbA1c from baseline to the end of treatment, a mean difference of 0.07% (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.06 – 0.19; p = 0.29; 3 trials; 2652 patients; very low-certainty evidence), and a comparable rate of any hypoglycemia, rate ratio 1.02 (95% CI 0.8 – 1.3; p = 0.87; 3 trials; 2881 patients; very low-certainty evidence). IDeg resulted in more reduction in FPG compared to IGla-300, mean difference of 10.27 mg/dL (95% CI 7.25 – 13.29; p < 0.001; 3 trials; 2668 patients; low-certainty evidence). Similar rates of nocturnal and severe hypoglycemia were observed, rate ratio of 1.13 (95% CI 0.72 – 1.78; p = 0.54; 3 trials; 2668 patients; very low-certainty evidence) and 1.4 (95% CI 0.41 – 4.73; p = 0.59; 2 trials; 1952 patients; very low-certainty evidence), respectively.

Conclusion

There is no evidence of a difference between IDeg and IGla-300 in the mean change in HbA1c and the risk of anytime, nocturnal, and severe hypoglycemia. IDeg appeared to cause a higher reduction in FPG compared to IGla-300. However, this finding should be interpreted with caution due to the small number of trials included and their high risk of bias.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42022364891, identifier CRD42022364891.
Meta-analysis of the effect and clinical significance of Delphian lymph node metastasis in papillary thyroid cancer
Authors: Chen Yan , Wang YiHan , Li Changlin , Zhang XueYan , Fu Yantao
Published: January 2024

Objective

To investigate the effect and clinical significance of Delphian lymph nodes (DLN) on the factors influencing papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) to provide individualized guidance for the surgical treatment of thyroid cancer.

Methods

Relevant studies from PubMed, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, Embase, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases were searched until February 13, 2023. Stringent selection parameters were used to obtain included data and homogeneous articles. Analyses were performed using Revman 5.4 and SPSS software. A P-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Five studies were finally included in this study. The results revealed a higher risk of DLN metastasis (DLNM) in patients with tumor size >1cm, multifocality, and extrathyroidal extension (ETE) of the thyroid. The risk of central lymph node metastasis (CLNM) was 11.25 times higher in DLN-positive patients with PTC than in DLN-negative (OR = 11.25, 95% CI: 8.64–14.64, P < 0.05) patients. The risk of LLNM was 5.57 times higher in DLN-positive patients with PTC than in DLN-negative (OR = 5.57, 95% CI: 4.57–6.78, P < 0.001) patients. The risk of postoperative recurrence in DLN-positive patients with PTC was 3.49 times higher (OR = 3.49, 95% CI: 1.91–6.38, P < 0.001) than in DLN-negative patients with PTC.

Conclusion

Patients with tumor size >1 cm in diameter, multifocality, and ETE have an increased risk for DLN development. DLN-positive patients with central and lateral cervical lymph node metastasis and postoperative recurrence are at higher risk than DLN-negative patients.
CRISPR/Cas9: an advanced platform for root and tuber crops improvement
Authors: Divya K. , Thangaraj Makeshkumar , Krishna Radhika N.
Published: January 2024

Root and tuber crops (RTCs), which include cassava, potato, sweet potato, and yams, principally function as staple crops for a considerable fraction of the world population, in addition to their diverse applications in nutrition, industry, and bioenergy sectors. Even then, RTCs are an underutilized group considering their potential as industrial raw material. Complexities in conventional RTC improvement programs curb the extensive exploitation of the potentials of this group of crop species for food, energy production, value addition, and sustainable development. Now, with the advent of whole-genome sequencing, sufficient sequence data are available for cassava, sweet potato, and potato. These genomic resources provide enormous scope for the improvement of tuber crops, to make them better suited for agronomic and industrial applications. There has been remarkable progress in RTC improvement through the deployment of new strategies like gene editing over the last decade. This review brings out the major areas where CRISPR/Cas technology has improved tuber crops. Strategies for genetic transformation of RTCs with CRISPR/Cas9 constructs and regeneration of edited lines and the bottlenecks encountered in their establishment are also discussed. Certain attributes of tuber crops requiring focus in future research along with putative editing targets are also indicated. Altogether, this review provides a comprehensive account of developments achieved, future lines of research, bottlenecks, and major experimental concerns regarding the establishment of CRISPR/Cas9-based gene editing in RTCs.
Optimal dosage protocols for mathematical models of synergy of chemo- and immunotherapy
Authors: Ledzewicz Urszula , Schättler Heinz
Published: January 2024

The release of tumor antigens during traditional cancer treatments such as radio- or chemotherapy leads to a stimulation of the immune response which provides synergistic effects these treatments have when combined with immunotherapies. A low-dimensional mathematical model is formulated which, depending on the values of its parameters, encompasses the 3 E’s (elimination, equilibrium, escape) of tumor immune system interactions. For the escape situation, optimal control problems are formulated which aim to revert the process to the equilibrium scenario. Some numerical results are included.
Cracking characteristics evaluation for reinforcement basalt fiber reactive powder concrete beam using acoustic emission
Authors: Lyu Xiang , Li Wenjun , Hu Hang , Ding Xuezheng , Hu Xiaochuan
Published: January 2024

New types of fibers such as basalt fibers are gradually being used to reinforce cement-based concrete materials. To provide a basis for the further popularization of basalt fibers and basalt fiber reinforced reactive powder concrete (BFRPC) materials, the bending mechanical properties and fracture properties of BFRPC beams were investigated by innovatively applying four-point bending test and multiple acoustic parameter analysis methods. On the one hand, the load vs. displacement curve and crack pattern of reinforcement BFRPC beam were obtained from the four-point bending test. On the other hand, Acoustic emission (AE) technology was used to monitor the cracking process of reinforcement BFRPC beam under four-point bending load, and the AE signal was analyzed to illustrate the cracking characteristics of reinforcement BFRPC beam. The results revealed that AE hits, amplitude, counts, duration, and energy have a similar changing trend with bending load. Cumulative hits and cumulative energy are positively linearly related to the displacement and quadratically related to the sum of crack widths, and the correlation coefficients are all above 0.95. Besides, the cracking process of reinforcement BFRPC beam can be divided into four stages by the variation of AE basic parameters with bending load. The main rebars yielding is an important turning point of the crack characteristic of reinforcement BFRPC beam. AE signal data varies greatly in different locations, and it has an obvious advantage to detect the formation of invisible cracks. The results of predicting concrete damage and cracking by AE signal data are consistent with the experimental phenomenon. The low-stress brittle fracture caused by tensile fracture was reduced, and the tensile resistance and flexural bearing capacity of the reinforcement BFRPC beam were increased. The results obtained in this paper support the damage assessment and structural health monitoring for cement base concrete materials under bending load.
Association of urine autoantibodies with disease activity in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Zhang Yuxian , Qu Xiaoxia , Wang Lishui , Song Lijun
Published: January 2024

Objective

The presence of urinary autoantibodies in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has been confirmed by several studies; however, the significance of their presence in urine remains unclear. This study aims to further investigate the association between urine autoantibodies and disease activity as well as organ involvement in SLE.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 89 SLE patients. Data collected included anti-nuclear antibody (ANA), anti-ENA antibodies, and anti-dsDNA antibody levels in both serum and urine, complement (C) 3, C4 levels in serum, SLE disease activity index-2000 (SLEDAI-2000), renal domains of SLEDAI (RSLEDAI) and non-renal SLEDAI (NRSLEDAI).

Results

The rate of positive urine ANA (uANA) was 33.3% (29/87) among the enrolled patients. Compared to the uANA negative group, the positive group exhibited significantly higher SLEDAI-2000 scores (7.85 ± 5.88 vs. 18.69 ± 6.93, p < 0.001), RSLEDAI scores [0 (0, 4.0) vs. 12.0 (8.0, 16.0), p < 0.001], and NRSLEDAI [4 (2.0, 8.0) vs. 6.0 (4.0, 9.5), p = 0.038]. Patients with positive urine anti-Sm antibody demonstrated significantly elevated SLEDAI-2000 scores compared to those who were negative (25.0 ± 8.80 vs. 10.09 ± 6.63, p < 0.001). Similarly, they also had higher RSLEDAI [16.0 (12.0, 16.0) vs. 4.0 (0, 8.0), p < 0.001] and NRSLEDAI [9.5 (6.0, 13.5) vs. 4.0 (3.0, 8.0), p = 0.012], as well as a greater prevalence of renal involvement compared to their negative counterparts (100% vs. 58.2, p = 0.022). There was a positive correlation between uANA titer and both SLEDAI-2000 (rs = 0.663, p < 0.001) and RSLEDAI (rs = 0.662, p < 0.001). The serum anti-dsDNA antibody level did not exhibit a significant correlation with RSLEDAI (rs = 0.143, p = 0.182). Conversely, the urine anti-dsDNA antibody level demonstrated a significant positive correlation with RSLEDAI (rs = 0.529, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Urine ANA is associated with both global SLEDAI and RSLEDAI scores. Urine anti-Sm antibody is associated with an increased incidence of renal involvement in SLE. The urine anti-dsDNA antibody level, rather than the serum anti-dsDNA antibody level, exhibits a significant association with RSLEDAI in SLE.
Potential effects of specific gut microbiota on periodontal disease: a two-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Xu Meng , Shao Qiang , Zhou Yinglu , Yu Yili , Wang Shuwei , Wang An , Cai Yida
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Periodontal disease (PD) presents a substantial global health challenge, encompassing conditions from reversible gingivitis to irreversible periodontitis, often culminating in tooth loss. The gut-oral axis has recently emerged as a focal point, with potential gut microbiota dysbiosis exacerbating PD.

Methods

In this study, we employed a double-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomized (MR) approach to investigate the causal relationship between specific gut microbiota and periodontal disease (PD) and bleeding gum (BG) development, while exploring the interplay between periodontal health and the gut microenvironment. We performed genome-wide association studies (GWAS) with two cohorts, totalling 346,731 (PD and control) and 461,113 (BG and control) participants, along with data from 14,306 participants’ intestinal flora GWAS, encompassing 148 traits (31 families and 117 genera). Three MR methods were used to assess causality, with the in-verse-variance-weighted (IVW) measure as the primary outcome. Cochrane’s Q test, MR-Egger, and MR-PRESSO global tests were used to detect heterogeneity and pleiotropy. The leave-one-out method was used to test the stability of the MR results. An F-statistic greater than 10 was accepted for instrument exposure association.

Results and conclusion

Specifically, Eubacterium xylanophilum and Lachnoclostridium were associated with reduced gum bleeding risk, whereas Anaerotruncus, Eisenbergiella, and Phascolarctobacterium were linked to reduced PD risk. Conversely, Fusicatenibacter was associated with an elevated risk of PD. No significant heterogeneity or pleiotropy was detected. In conclusion, our MR analysis pinpointed specific gut flora with causal connections to PD, offering potential avenues for oral health interventions.
Application of a nomogram model for the prediction of 90-day poor outcomes following mechanical thrombectomy in patients with acute anterior circulation large-vessel occlusion
Authors: Li Xia , Li Chen , Liu Ao-fei , Jiang Chang-chun , Zhang Yi-qun , Liu Yun-e , Zhang Ying-ying , Li Hao-yang , Jiang Wei-jian , Lv Jin
Published: January 2024

Background

The past decade has witnessed advancements in mechanical thrombectomy (MT) for acute large-vessel occlusions (LVOs). However, only approximately half of the patients with LVO undergoing MT show the best/independent 90-day favorable outcome. This study aimed to develop a nomogram for predicting 90-day poor outcomes in patients with LVO treated with MT.

Methods

A total of 187 patients who received MT were retrospectively analyzed. Factors associated with 90-day poor outcomes (defined as mRS of 4–6) were determined by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyzes. One best-fit nomogram was established to predict the risk of a 90-day poor outcome, and a concordance index was utilized to evaluate the performance of the model. Additionally, 145 patients from a single stroke center were retrospectively recruited as the validation cohort to test the newly established nomogram.

Results

The overall incidence of 90-day poor outcomes was 45.16%, affecting 84 of 186 patients in the training set. Moreover, five variables, namely, age (odds ratio [OR]: 1.049, 95% CI [1.016–1.083]; p = 0.003), glucose level (OR: 1.163, 95% CI [1.038–1.303]; p = 0.009), baseline National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score (OR: 1.066, 95% CI [0.995–1.142]; p = 0.069), unsuccessful recanalization (defined as a TICI grade of 0 to 2a) (OR: 3.730, 95% CI [1.688–8.245]; p = 0.001), and early neurological deterioration (END, defined as an increase of ≥4 points between the baseline NIHSS score and the NIHSS score at 24 h after MT) (OR: 3.383, 95% CI [1.411–8.106]; p = 0.006), were included in the nomogram to predict the potential risk of poor outcomes at 90 days following MT in LVO patients, with a C-index of 0.763 (0.693–0.832) in the training set and 0.804 (0.719–0.889) in the validation set.

Conclusion

The proposed nomogram provided clinical evidence for the effective control of these risk factors before or during the process of MT surgery in LVO patients.
Natural deep eutectic solvents-based green extraction of vanillin: optimization, purification, and bioactivity assessment
Authors: Xu Lingxia , Liaqat Fakhra , Khazi Mahammed Ilyas , Sun Jianzhong , Zhu Daochen
Published: January 2024

The sustainable extraction of natural compounds has recently attracted significant attention. The extraction of high-quality natural vanillin in active form is crucial for its efficient use in various industries, but conventional solvents are not suitable for this purpose. The flammability, volatility, and toxicity of organic solvents can harm extraction personnel, and their waste liquid can cause environmental pollution. Natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) are cost-effective, environmentally friendly, biodegradable, and non-toxic organic alternative to conventional solvents. In this study, 20 different NADES were tested for the sustainable extraction of natural vanillin. Among these, a DES system composed of choline chloride: 1,4-butanediol: lactic acid exhibited the highest extraction rate (15.9 mg/g). Employing response surface methodology (RSM), optimal extraction conditions were determined, yielding a vanillin content 18.5 mg/g with water content of 33.9%, extraction temperature of 64.6°C, extraction time of 32.3 min, and a solid-liquid ratio of 44.9 mg/mL. Subsequently, the optimized NADES system was then assessed for reusability in extracting vanillin from vanilla pods and kraft lignin over three cycles, retaining 43% of its extraction efficiency and demonstrating potential for waste reduction. Purification of vanillin was achieved through chromatography using a non-polar resin SP700, with ethanol as a desorption eluent and a feed solution pH of 4.0, resulting in the highest vanillin purity. HPLC and GC-MS analyses confirmed purity, while antioxidant activity assays (DPPH and ABTS) showcased significant antioxidant activity of the purified vanillin. Moreover, vanillin exhibited notable antimicrobial activity against a panel of food-borne bacteria. This study introduces an environmentally friendly approach to vanillin extraction highlights using NADES, emphasizing the potential for producing high-quality bioactive vanillin with reduced environmental impact. The applicability of NADES systems extends beyond vanillin, offering a versatile method for extracting diverse natural compounds.
Promoting healthy eating in early pregnancy in individuals at risk of gestational diabetes mellitus: does it improve glucose homeostasis? A study protocol for a randomized control trial
Authors: Bernier Emilie , Plante Anne-Sophie , Lemieux Patricia , Robitaille Julie , Lemieux Simone , Desroches Sophie , Bélanger-Gravel Ariane , Maheux-Lacroix Sarah , Weisnagel S. John , Demers Suzanne , Camirand Lemyre Félix , Boulet Mélanie , Baillargeon Jean-Patrice , Morisset Anne-Sophie
Published: January 2024

Background

Healthy eating during pregnancy has favorable effects on glycemic control and is associated with a lower risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). According to Diabetes Canada, there is a need for an effective and acceptable intervention that could improve glucose homeostasis and support pregnant individuals at risk for GDM.

Aims

This unicentric randomized controlled trial (RCT) aims to evaluate the effects of a nutritional intervention initiated early in pregnancy, on glucose homeostasis in 150 pregnant individuals at risk for GDM, compared to usual care.

Methods

Population: 150 pregnant individuals ≥18 years old, at ≤14 weeks of pregnancy, and presenting ≥1 risk factor for GDM according to Diabetes Canada guidelines. Intervention: The nutritional intervention initiated in the first trimester is based on the health behavior change theory during pregnancy and on Canada’s Food Guide recommendations. It includes (1) four individual counseling sessions with a registered dietitian using motivational interviewing (12, 18, 24, and 30 weeks), with post-interview phone call follow-ups, aiming to develop and achieve S.M.A.R.T. nutritional objectives (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound); (2) 10 informative video clips on healthy eating during pregnancy developed by our team and based on national guidelines, and (3) a virtual support community via a Facebook group. Control: Usual prenatal care. Protocol: This RCT includes three on-site visits (10–14, 24–26, and 34–36 weeks) during which a 2-h oral glucose tolerance test is done and blood samples are taken. At each trimester and 3 months postpartum, participants complete web-based questionnaires, including three validated 24-h dietary recalls to assess their diet quality using the Healthy Eating Food Index 2019. Primary outcome: Difference in the change in fasting blood glucose (from the first to the third trimester) between groups. This study has been approved by the Ethics Committee of the Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval.

Discussion

This RCT will determine whether a nutritional intervention initiated early in pregnancy can improve glucose homeostasis in individuals at risk for GDM and inform Canadian stakeholders on improving care trajectories and policies for pregnant individuals at risk for GDM.

Clinical trial registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05299502, NCT05299502
On-demand plerixafor added to high-dose cyclophosphamide and pegylated recombinant human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor in the mobilization of patients with multiple myeloma: a treatment with high effectiveness, convenient, and affordable cost
Authors: Hou Li-qiong , Liu Jun-Ru , Gu Jing-Li , Chen Mei-Lan , Kuang Li-Fen , Huang Bei-Hui , Zou Wai-yi , Li Juan
Published: January 2024

Objective

The combination of high-dose cyclophosphamide (HD-Cy) (3g/m2) plus granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) and on-demand plerixafor (PXF) has been considered an effective mobilization regimen of patients with multiple myeloma(MM). However, the daily multi-injection regimen of G-CSF poses challenges. This study delves into the efficiency and cost implications of a novel approach, using HD-Cy alongside pegylated G-CSF (PEG G-CSF) and on-demand PXF. Unlike G-CSF, which necessitates daily injections, the half-life of PEG G-CSF extended allows for a single injection.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 350 MM patients, which were categorized based on their mobilization regimens: Cy+PEG G-CSF+/-PXF (n=66), Cy+PEG G-CSF (n=91), Cy+ G-CSF (n=169), and G-CSF+PXF (n=24).

Results

Mobilization with Cy+PEG G-CSF+/-PXF(8.79)yielded a notably higher median CD34+ cell count compared to the other regimens: Cy+PEG G-CSF(4.96), Cy+G-CSF (4.65), and G-CSF+PXF (2.99) (P<0.001). The percentage of patients who achieved >6×106/kg CD34+ cells was significantly higher in the Cy+PEG G-CSF+/-PXF group (77.3%) than in the other mobilization regimens: Cy+PEG G-CSF (41.8%), Cy+ G-CSF (37.3%), and G-CSF+PXF (8.3%) (P<0.001). From a cost perspective, the Cy+PEG G-CSF+/-PXF approach was more economical than the G-CSF+PXF strategy but was marginally costlier than the other two methods. A multivariate assessment highlighted that the combination of Cy+PEG G-CSF with on-demand PXF had a superior potential to achieve the desired harvest (6×106/kg) compared to the Cy+PEG G-CSF protocol without PXF. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for each 1% increase in the probability of achieving a successful optimal harvest was $ 97.02 per patient. The incidence of neutropenic fever was 3.0% in the Cy+PEG G-CSF+/-PXF group.

Conclusion

The combination of on-demand PXF with HD-Cy and PEG G-CSF offers a cost-effective approach with a high mobilization success rate, manageable side effects, and the convenience of fewer injections. It stands as a promising mobilization strategy for MM patients.
Traumatic irreducible dislocation of the fifth metatarsophalangeal joint in pediatrics: case report and clinical experience
Authors: Li Wen Chao , Liu Li , Chen Hui , Wang Zhen Dong , Zhou Hui Xia
Published: January 2024

Dislocation of the metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) by trauma commonly occurs in adults. Most dislocations of the MTPJ could be reduced by closed reduction. However, isolated traumatic irreducible dislocation of the fifth MTPJ is an extremely rare injury, particularly in children. We report the case of a 10-year-old boy with irreducible dislocation of the fifth MTPJ who presented with a dorsiflexion injury of the right foot 1 year previously. Closed reduction was attempted but failed. Computed tomography showed the dorsolateral dislocation of the fifth MTPJ. We performed an open reduction and metatarsal bone osteotomy, with a short osteotomy at approximately 0.8 cm. The osteotomy was adjusted to a reduction of the MTPJ and fixation by a lock compression plate. The distal growth plate in the metatarsal bone was protected to avoid pre-closure of the growth plate. There were no instances of dislocation or signs of avascular necrosis of the head of the metatarsal bone. The results of this study demonstrated that open reduction and metatarsal bone osteotomy could be an optional treatment for irreducible dislocation of the fifth MTPJ in children. We should pay more attention to the distal growth plate in the metatarsal bone to avoid pre-closure of the growth plate.
Klippel–Trénaunay syndrome with profound abdominal lymphatic-venous malformation in a three-day-old newborn: a case report and literature review
Authors: Wei Shih Yang , Liu Yu Peng , Lin Dao Chen , Tsai Pei Shan
Published: January 2024

Background

Klippel–Trénaunay syndrome, a kind of congenital limb-length-discrepancy disorder, is commonly associated with a variety of vascular anomalies.

Case presentation

We present the case of a three-day-old newborn with a profound abdominal mass lesion during prenatal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination. After delivery, physical examination revealed mild hemihypertrophy of the left lower extremity and red lesions on the left thigh. MRI of the abdomen showed a cyst-like lesion measuring 6.3 cm × 2.7 cm × 5.5 cm in the upper abdomen. Within the mass, there were also some possible calcified spots exhibiting high T1WI signals and low T2WI signals. A computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen was consistent with an ill-defined cystic tumor with small calcifications and encasement of mesenteric vessels. A MRI of the left lower extremity showed a tubular structure with a signal void and homogeneous strong enhancement located in the anterior subcutis of the left lower limb. The CT scan confirmed that the tubular structure was consistent with a venous malformation. This patient had features of Klippel–Trénaunay syndrome, including port-wine stains, a profound abdominal mass, and vascular malformations of the left lower extremity.

Conclusions

In this article, we presented a case of Klippel–Trénaunay syndrome, emphasizing both prenatal and confirmatory postnatal cross-sectional imaging findings. The rare presentation of an abdominal lymphatic-venous formation played a pivotal role as a crucial indicator for an early diagnosis of Klippel–Trénaunay syndrome.
Compartment-based reconstruction of acquisition-weighted 31P cardiac MRSI reduces sensitivity to cardiac motion and scan planning
Authors: Tyler Andrew , Hundertmark Moritz J. , Miller Jack J. , Rider Oliver , Tyler Damian J. , Valkovič Ladislav
Published: January 2024

Motivation:31P magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (31P MRSI) is a powerful technique for investigating the metabolic effects of treatments for heart failure in vivo, allowing a better understanding of their mechanism of action in patient cohorts. Unfortunately, cardiac 31P MRSI is fundamentally limited by low SNR, which leads to compromises in acquisition, such as no cardiac or respiratory gating or low spatial resolution, in order to achieve reasonable scan times. Spectroscopy with linear algebra modeling (SLAM) reconstruction may be able to address these challenges and therefore improve repeatability by incorporating a segmented localizer into the reconstruction.

Methods: Six healthy volunteers were scanned twice in a test–retest procedure to allow quantification of repeatability. Each scan consisted of anatomical localizers and two acquisition-weighted (AW) 31P MRSI acquisitions, which were acquired with and without cardiac gating. Five patients with heart failure with a preserved ejection fraction were then scanned with the same 31P MRSI sequence without cardiac gating. All 31P MRSI datasets were reconstructed with both conventional Fourier transform (FT)-based reconstruction and SLAM reconstruction, which were compared statistically. The effect of shifting the 31P MRSI acquisition field of view was also investigated.

Results: In the healthy volunteer cohort, the spectral fit of the SLAM reconstructions had significantly improved Cramer–Rao lower bounds (CRLBs) compared to the FT-based reconstruction of non-cardiac gated data, as well as improved coefficients of variability and repeatability. The SLAM reconstruction found a significant difference in the PCr/ATP ratio between the healthy volunteer and patient cohorts, which the FT-based reconstruction did not find. Furthermore, the SLAM reconstruction was less influenced by the placement of the field of view (FOV) of the 31P MRSI acquisition in post hoc analysis.

Discussion: The experimental benefits of the SLAM reconstruction for AW data were demonstrated by the improvements in fit confidence and repeatability seen in the healthy volunteer cohort and post hoc FOV analysis. The benefit of SLAM reconstruction of AW data for clinical studies was then illustrated by the patient cohort, which suggested improved sensitivity to clinically significant changes in the PCr/ATP ratio.
Genome-wide identification of TPS and TPP genes in cultivated peanut (Arachis hypogaea) and functional characterization of AhTPS9 in response to cold stress
Authors: Zhong Chao , He Zehua , Liu Yu , Li Zhao , Wang Xiaoguang , Jiang Chunji , Kang Shuli , Liu Xibo , Zhao Shuli , Wang Jing , Zhang He , Zhao Xinhua , Yu Haiqiu
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Trehalose is vital for plant metabolism, growth, and stress resilience, relying on Trehalose-6-phosphate synthase (TPS) and Trehalose-6-phosphate phosphatase (TPP) genes. Research on these genes in cultivated peanuts (Arachis hypogaea) is limited.

Methods

This study employed bioinformatics to identify and analyze AhTPS and AhTPP genes in cultivated peanuts, with subsequent experimental validation of AhTPS9’s role in cold tolerance.

Results

In the cultivated peanut genome, a total of 16 AhTPS and 17 AhTPP genes were identified. AhTPS and AhTPP genes were observed in phylogenetic analysis, closely related to wild diploid peanuts, respectively. The evolutionary patterns of AhTPS and AhTPP genes were predominantly characterized by gene segmental duplication events and robust purifying selection. A variety of hormone-responsive and stress-related cis-elements were unveiled in our analysis of cis-regulatory elements. Distinct expression patterns of AhTPS and AhTPP genes across different peanut tissues, developmental stages, and treatments were revealed, suggesting potential roles in growth, development, and stress responses. Under low-temperature stress, qPCR results showcased upregulation in AhTPS genes (AhTPS2-5, AhTPS9-12, AhTPS14, AhTPS15) and AhTPP genes (AhTPP1, AhTPP6, AhTPP11, AhTPP13). Furthermore, AhTPS9, exhibiting the most significant expression difference under cold stress, was obviously induced by cold stress in cultivated peanut, and AhTPS9-overexpression improved the cold tolerance of Arabidopsis by protect the photosynthetic system of plants, and regulates sugar-related metabolites and genes.

Discussion

This comprehensive study lays the groundwork for understanding the roles of AhTPS and AhTPP gene families in trehalose regulation within cultivated peanuts and provides valuable insights into the mechanisms related to cold stress tolerance.
Exploring the impact of workload, organizational support, and work engagement on teachers’ psychological wellbeing: a structural equation modeling approach
Authors: Wang Yonggang
Published: January 2024

Introduction

This study delves into the intricate relationships among workload, perceived organizational support, work engagement, and psychological wellbeing within the context of 572 secondary school teachers in China.

Methods

Utilizing structural equation modeling (SEM), this research rigorously examined construct validity and the intricate interrelationships among latent variables. The data were collected and analyzed to determine the associations between workload, perceived organizational support, work engagement, and psychological wellbeing.

Results

The findings unveiled compelling negative associations between workload and perceived organizational support, workload and work engagement, and workload and psychological wellbeing among the secondary school teachers. Conversely, positive correlations emerged between perceived organizational support, work engagement, and psychological wellbeing. The structural equation modeling analysis demonstrated strong fit indices, affirming robust alignment with the anticipated models.

Discussion

Mediation analyses further elucidated the significance of work engagement as a mediator in the relationships between workload and psychological wellbeing, as well as between perceived organizational support and psychological wellbeing. These results underscore the pivotal role of work engagement in shaping the impact of workload and organizational support on the psychological wellbeing of secondary school teachers in Chinese educational settings.
Leader humility and employees’ creative performance: the role of intrinsic motivation and work engagement
Authors: Liu Haiou , Jameel Ahmed Syed , Anjum Muhammad Adeel , Mina Azalim
Published: January 2024

Drawing on the job demand-resource (JD-R) model and self-determination theory (SDT), this study examines the relationship between humble leadership and employees’ creative performance, taking into account the sequential mediating role of intrinsic motivation and work engagement. The sequential mediation model was tested using two-wave questionnaire data collected from employees and their supervisors (n = 350) in the telecommunication sector of Pakistan. Data were processed and examined using SPSS and AMOS. The results revealed significant positive relationships among all variables. Further, it was found that intrinsic motivation and work engagement sequentially but partially mediated the positive relationship between humble leadership and creative performance. The theoretical and practical implications are discussed at the end.
Combination of sugar-sweetened beverage consumption, screen-based sedentary time, and sleep duration and their association with South Korean adolescents' mental health
Authors: Ra Jin Suk
Published: January 2024

Introduction

This study examines the combinations of sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption, screen-based sedentary time, and sleep duration and their association with adolescents' depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation.

Methods

This research followed a crosssectional study design. Secondary data analysis was conducted on the data collected from 21,046 high school students who had participated in the 17th Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-Based Survey in 2021. A complex sampling analysis, including descriptive and logistic regression analyses, was conducted in SPSS Statistics 26.0.

Results

The combination of low SSB consumption, excessive screen-based sedentary time, and short sleep duration was associated with an increase in depressive symptoms. In addition, a combination of medium/high SSB consumption, appropriate/excessive screen-based sedentary time, and short sleep duration was associated with an increase in depressive symptoms. Finally, the combination of high SSB consumption, excessive screen-based sedentary time, and short sleep duration was associated with an increase in suicidal ideation.

Discussion

The findings demonstrate that healthcare providers should develop and conduct family-and school-based programs to restrict SSB consumption, screen-based sedentary behaviors, and sleep duration to improve adolescents' mental health.
Worldwide variations in COVID-19 vaccination policies and practices in liver transplant settings: results of a multi-society global survey
Authors: Di Maira Tommaso , Vinaixa Carmen , Izzy Manhal , Paolo Russo Francesco , Kirchner Varvara A. , Rammohan Ashwin , Belli Luca Saverio , Polak Wojciech Grzegorz , Berg Thomas , Berenguer Marina
Published: January 2024

Background

Despite the WHO's report of 24 available SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, limited data exist regarding vaccination policies for liver transplant (LT) patients. To address this, we conducted a global multi-society survey (EASL-ESOT-ELITA-ILTS) in LT centers.

Methods

A digital questionnaire assessing vaccine policies, safety, efficacy, and center data was administered online to LT centers.

Results

Out of 168 responding centers, 46.4%, 28%, 13.1%, 10.7%, and 1.8% were from European, American, Western Pacific, Southeast Asian, and Eastern Mediterranean Regions. Most LT centers prioritized COVID-19 vaccine access for LT patients (76%) and healthcare workers (86%), while other categories had lower priority (30%). One-third of responders recommended mRNA vaccine exclusively, while booster doses were widely recommended (81%). One-third conducted post-vaccine liver function tests post COVID-19 vaccine. Only 16% of centers modified immunosuppression, and mycophenolate discontinuation or modification was the main approach. Side effects were seen in 1 in 1,000 vaccinated patients, with thromboembolism, acute rejection, and allergic reaction being the most severe. mRNA showed fewer side effects (−3.1, p = 0.002).

Conclusion

COVID-19 vaccines and booster doses were widely used among LT recipients and healthcare workers, without a specific vaccine preference. Preventative immunosuppression adjustment post-vaccination was uncommon. mRNA vaccines demonstrated a favorable safety profile in this population.
Being kind in unkind spaces: a qualitative examination of how medical educators and first year medical students perceive empathy training
Authors: Harvey Sarah D. C. , Stacey Clare L.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

It has become de rigueur for healthcare systems to tout their ability to provide compassionate medical care that addresses the emotional as well as physical needs of patients. Not surprisingly, then, there is considerable pressure on medical schools to train their students to be empathic. Existing literature on empathy training in medicine tends to focus on how to build emotional intelligence in individual trainees, largely ignoring the sociocultural factors that contribute to or thwart empathy development in medical school. Additionally, research tends to examine student perspectives, with little attention given to medical educators and their viewpoints.

Methods

In this paper, we adopt an “emotion practice” framework and utilize an inductive descriptive study design to qualitatively consider how first year medical students (N = 23) and their instructors (N = 9) perceive empathy training at a site we call Midtown Medical School.

Results and discussion

We find that both groups have an understanding of empathic capital but differ in their beliefs about the utility and legitimacy of this capital. Both educators and students also recognize the limitations of standardized empathy curriculum but do not agree on the implications of such rote learning. Finally, students and instructors alike find the hidden curriculum of medical school to be antithetical to empathy development, concurring that it is difficult to cultivate empathy in spaces where biomedical coursework is prioritized over social–emotional learning. In short, both groups find it difficult to be kind in an unkind place.