bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Legacies of States and Social Revolutions
Authors: Kalyvas Stathis N
Published: September 2024

Forty years after its publication, Theda Skocpol’s States and Social Revolutions confronts us with a series of questions: Are social revolutions different today compared with 50 years ago, and if yes in what ways and why? What is the state of the study of Revolutions in political science and sociology? More generally, how do we understand and relate to social revolutions in the post-Cold War world? Why do we pay more attention to civil wars now compared with then – and vice versa? If the 40th anniversary of Theda Skocpol’s path-breaking book forces these questions on us, answering them opens up fundamental concerns about how we approach the study of social phenomena and the way we are embedded, as social scientists, into the politics of our world.
Youth-led social action at school: ‘It made me think that there could be a way to make things better in the future’
Authors: Crook Deborah J , Zoha  , Zainab  , Alice  , Elodie  , Erin  , Isabelle  , Safiya  , Terry
Published: September 2024

This article critically reflects on the Education Peace Project, instigated by seven young people in a northern England secondary school. It explores how this different beginning makes visible the relational, place-based approaches involved in collaborative research. We suggest schools could do more to support young people to think, talk and act on issues that concern them, by addressing deep-seated attitudes about childhood, knowledge and learning, and opening up spaces where young people can participate differently, by working collectively for meaningful change.
Second slavery, capital and other slaveries
Authors: Piqueras José Antonio
Published: September 2024

The present contribution examines three historical problems of theoretical implications that are present in Dale Tomich’s work on the “second slavery”. I find it more interesting to reflect on three basic points that are part of Tomich’s thesis: The crisis of “old colonial slavery” because of the irruption and development of the world-economy. The relationship between slavery and capital. The conception of the world-economy as a transnational social formation, in which capitalism plays the role of nexus and motor of local particularities (with their corresponding labor modalities), particularities that were gradually subordinated to the market and to “social labor” (commodity-producing labor with the abstraction of the relations of production in which commodities are produced).
Effectiveness and safety of tildrakizumab in individuals with HIV and psoriasis: A case series
Authors: Krygier Jonathan , Richert Bertrand
Published: September 2024

Psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin disease, presents unique challenges when co-occurring with HIV. Tildrakizumab, an IL-23p19 inhibitor, has demonstrated efficacy in treating moderate-to-severe psoriasis. This retrospective case series reports three individuals living with HIV and psoriasis treated with tildrakizumab. Clinical outcomes, including Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) and HIV viral load, were recorded over a year. All three patients achieved significant clinical improvements with tildrakizumab, with PASI scores improving by over 95%. No adverse effects were reported, and HIV viral loads remained undetectable. Tildrakizumab appears to be a safe and effective treatment option for psoriasis in individuals living with HIV, providing significant benefits without compromising HIV control.
Introducing simulation-based education to Genitourinary Medicine specialty training in the North West of England: A quality improvement project exploring trainee perspectives and impact
Authors: Ezeh Izuchukwu Williams
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Simulation-based education (SBE) provides enactive experiences for learners. This project explores the utility of SBE in GUM training.

Methods

Phase 1 was a qualitative survey of GUM trainees across the UK exploring their views on SBE. Phase 2 involved roll-out of SBE to new GUM trainees. Feedback was subsequently obtained.

Results

Twenty-three participants were surveyed in phase 1. When asked to rate the relevance of SBE to curriculum competencies on a scale of 1 to 5 (1 = not relevant, 5 = highly relevant), the highest ratings (score ≥4) were for proctoscopy (4.1), IUD insertion (4.1), SDI removal (4.1), SDI insertion (4.0), and punch biopsy (4.0). All curriculum items scored ≥3. Eighty-three percent ( n = 19) felt SBE will improve clinician confidence and competence. Following introduction of SBE, participants fed back on the relevance of the session. All 5 respondents rated the session ≥4 for addressing their clinical and curriculum goals. All respondents rated the session ≥4 for improving clinician confidence and competence. The session received an overall rating of 5, and respondents similarly rated 5 for more sessions.

Conclusion

Trainees recognise the value of simulated learning experiences and its role in improving procedural competence and addressing bespoke human factor skills relevant to GUM.
Determination of Four Compositions of Lonicerae japonicae flos Based on UPLC–MS/MS Method
Authors: Ran Xie , Feng Liu , Hongying Fang , Yuguo Xu , Honglian Zhang
Published: September 2024

Background

Lonicerae japonicae flos, a representative kind of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for clearing heat and detoxifying, is known as Jinyinhua in China. The determination of multiple components’ content, especially multiple pharmacological components’ content, is often used to evaluate the quality of TCM, which could objectively evaluate the quality of TCM.

Objectives

The ultra high-performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (UPLC–MS/MS) method was used to determine the content of chlorogenic acid, isochlorogenic acid A, isochlorogenic acid C, and luteoloside in the current study.

Materials and Methods

15 batches of Lonicera japonica flos were collected from different sources. 75% methanol was taken as a solvent, and the solution ratio was 1 (mg:mL). The ultrasonic method was utilized to prepare the sample solution for 30 min, which was centrifuged for 10 min at 10,000 rpm. Then, the supernatant was taken for reserve. C18 was chosen as the fixed phase, and acetonitrile (A)–0.1% phosphate acid solution (B) was chosen as the mobile phase. The flow rate was 0.3 mL.min−1. The column temperature was 40°C, and the sample injection was 1 µL. In the negative ion mode, data were collected using multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) scan mode.

Results

The scope of chlorogenic acid, isochlorogenic acid A, isochlorogenic acid C, and luteoloside was in the range of 62.5–6,250 ng. mL−1, which had good linearity ( r2 = 0.9997). The content of the four components showed some differences among different sources.

Conclusion

The method was fast and sensitive, which could effectively evaluate and control the quality of Lonicera japonica flos.
Design and development of closed-loop controllers for trajectory tracking of a planar vibration-driven robot
Authors: Mousavi Seyed Mehdi , Fakhari Vahid
Published: September 2024

Vibration-driven robots constitute an innovative paradigm for achieving locomotion, leveraging periodic vibrations to meticulously control the movement of an internal mass, thus affording them a high degree of precision while navigating surfaces with varying friction characteristics. This paper is dedicated to the refinement of trajectory tracking in planar vibration-driven robots, achieved through the meticulous design and implementation of a Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) controller and Sliding Mode Controller (SMC). The considered vibration-driven robot is propelled using two parallel reciprocating unbalanced masses which allows the robot to have various maneuvers in two dimensions. The movement of the robot is improved by employing bristles to make non-isotropic Coloumb’s friction on the surfaces. At first, the governing dynamic equations of the robot are derived by considering the stick-slip effect and using the Euler–Lagrange method. Moreover, a PID controller for accurate trajectory tracking within the robot’s natural coordinate system is designed and employed. The fine-tuning of the PID controller’s coefficients is accomplished through the application of the NSGA-II optimization method. Subsequently, a SMC strategy is introduced to enable the robot’s control in an absolute coordinate system. The paper culminates with the presentation, in-depth analysis, and evaluation of the simulation results, shedding light on the significant enhancements in performance and capabilities achieved by vibration-driven robots. In conclusion, the pivotal role of the NSGA II algorithm in optimizing controller parameters is emphasized, and although the PID controller excels in trajectory tracking, challenges with sudden acceleration changes are identified.
Collaborative International Nursing Writing Group: A Nonpatriarchal Approach
Authors: Richardson Sandy , Krueger Louisa , Richardson Anna , Coleman Elizabeth , Ogilvie Sarah , De La Fosse Kara , Tobita Itoko , van der Wath Anna , Mondejar-Pont Meritxell , Mitterdorfer Anita , de Ruiter Hans-Peter
Published: September 2024

This paper offers a critical discussion of the evolution and impact of an international nursing writing group, developed to support nursing faculty and academics globally. Amid the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the writing group adapted and thrived online with a flattened power structure, and shared influence and acknowledgment of mutual capacity and contribution. The writing group attracted participants from various countries, with international members enriching collaboration, and fostering a global network of nursing scholars. By embracing diverse perspectives and promoting nonpatriarchal approaches to scholarly writing, the International Writing Group became a unique and valuable platform for academic growth and cross-cultural exchange in nursing.
Safe Infant Sleep Practices and Associated Factors Among Mothers Attending Vaccination Service at Dessie Town Governmental Health Care Facilities, 2021
Authors: Goshiye Debrnesh , Gedamu Sisay
Published: September 2024

Background:

Babies spend a lot of their time with sleeping thus they need to have a safe sleep. Inadequate sleeping arrangements might heighten the likelihood of Sudden Unexpected mortality in Infancy (SUDI), including SIDS and lethal sleeping mishaps, which continue to be the most prevalent cause of mortality for individuals aged 1 to 1 year.

Objective:

The study aimed to assess safe baby sleep practices and associated factors among women receiving immunizations at government healthcare facilities in Dessie Town.

Design:

An institution-based cross-sectional study

Methods:

We conducted interviews with a total of 392 mothers using semi-structured questionnaires at public health facilities of Dessie town, in 2021. After the data were entered into the EPI data version 3.1, SPSS 23 was utilized for the analysis. Additionally, multivariate and binary logistic regression analyses were carried out. In multivariate analysis, a P-value less than .05 indicate a significant association.

Results:

About 38.3%, 21.9%, and 14.7% had safe infant sleep practice regarding sleep position, no soft-bedding and sleep arrangement respectively. Significant association was observed between safe infant sleep position with baby age less than 3 months (AOR = 2.96, 95% CI = 1.50-5.84), baby age of 7 to 9 months (AOR = 3.84, 95% CI = 2.15-6.85), maternal level of education(AOR = 4.48, 95% CI = 1.87-10.76), relative/friend as their source of information (AOR = 1.98, 95% CI = 1.14-3.44), grandmother as their source of information (AOR = 1.89, 95% CI = 1.00-3.57).Additionally, baby age 4 to 6 months (AOR = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.19-0.94) and maternal level of education (AOR = 0.19, 95% CI = 0.04-0.92) shows a significant safe infant bed arrangement practice. Furthermore, baby age of 10 to 12 months (AOR = 0.49, 95% CI = 0.25-0.98) and maternal education level of college and above (AOR = 3.44, 95% CI = 1.18-10.03) also shows significant association with safe soft-bedding practice.

Conclusion:

Mothers’ safe infant sleep practices were found to be low in Dessie town. Therefore, efforts should be made to enhance mothers’ attentiveness and engagement. This will help them follow healthy infant sleep practices.
Spectacular whiteness: The tactics and mediation of white protests for Black Lives
Authors: Vilanova John
Published: September 2024

This article critically examines the 2020 Black Lives Matter uprisings in Portland, Oregon, focusing on the strategic and rhetorical deployment of whiteness in support of Black lives in the protest space. It observes that whiteness, as mediated through various news and journalistic texts, assumes a privileged position in this moment as spectacular, exploring the consequences of leveraging whites’ exceptional status in support of Black lives. The analysis focuses on two emblematic case studies: Christopher David, a white Navy veteran beaten by federal troops and ‘Naked Athena’, a white-presenting woman who posed nude in front of advancing police. Each is analyzed to understand how the protesters’ actions reveal a heuristic of spectacular whiteness for understanding the significance of Portland-based protests for Black lives. Analysis of media representations of each case reveals the ways whiteness inappropriately informed how the protests were narrativized.
Custom design approach of design of experiment as a tool for the optimisation of parameters for corrosion inhibition study of (+)-arabinogalactan on AISI 5140 steel
Authors: Jomy Jilna , Prabhu Deepa
Published: September 2024

Biopolymers have become prevalent in industries to prevent acid corrosion because of their robust structure and biodegradability. The current research investigates the effectiveness of the biopolymer (+)-arabinogalactan (AG) in inhibiting corrosion on AISI 5140 steel in H2SO4 media, employing a novel approach to experimental design called the custom design of experiment (DoE). Temperature and medium concentration have the greatest effects on the response, according to p-value analysis. The highest inhibitory efficiency (IE) at 50 °C, 0.1 M H2SO4 concentration, and 0.1 g/L of AG is predicted to be 75.57%. Density functional theory-based computational investigations demonstrate the potential of AG as a corrosion inhibitor, with chemisorption being the primary mode of adsorption. AG's adsorption on the metal surface is further confirmed by scanning electron microscope and energy-dispersive X-ray studies. Thus, this study pioneers the application of custom DoE in investigating AG's corrosion inhibition properties on AISI 5140 steel in H2SO4 medium.
Proposed Mechanisms and Associations of COVID-19 with Cardiometabolic Risk Factors
Authors: Reddy Koushik R. , Faridi Kamil F. , Aggarwal Monica , Tirumalai Adithi A. , Singh Tamanna , Tejtel Kristen S. , Williams Kim , Litwin Sheldon E. , Dastmalchi Lily Nedda , White Beth Ann , Barnard Neal , Ornish Dean , Batts Travis , Ajene George , Aspry Karen , Kris Etherton Penny , Hull Sarah C. , Freeman Andrew M.
Published: September 2024

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cardiometabolic risk (CMR) are highly prevalent globally. The interplay between CVD/CMR and COVID-19 morbidity and mortality has been intensely studied over the last three years and has yielded some important discoveries and warnings for public health. Despite many advances in cardiovascular medicine, CVD continues to be the global leading cause of death. Much of this disease burden results from high CMR imposed by behaviors centered around poor nutrition related to lifestyle choices and systemic constraints. Increased CVD/CMR contributed to the COVID-19 pandemic’s unprecedented wave of disability and death, and the current state of cardiovascular health been equated to a “Population Code Blue.” There is an urgent and unmet need to reorient our priorities towards health promotion and disease prevention. This manuscript will review how nutrition and lifestyle affect outcomes in COVID-19 and how some interventions and healthy lifestyle choices can markedly reduce disease burden, morbidity, and mortality.
Amphicrine carcinoma of the right colon, a report of a case and review of literature
Authors: Al-Mustafa Sahar , Aljalabneh Basim , Al-Hussaini Maysa
Published: September 2024

Mixed neuroendocrine and non-neuroendocrine neoplasms, recently recognized in the WHO classification as (MiNEN), are rare tumors of the gastrointestinal tract. These tumors are composed of two distinct cellular components; a well- or poorly differentiated neuroendocrine tumor and a non-neuroendocrine tumor, usually in the form of an adenocarcinoma, either admixed with or adjacent to one another. A rarer phenotype is a tumor in which the endocrine and epithelial cell features occur within the same cell; i.e. amphicrine carcinoma. Herein, we report the case of an 80-year-old female patient who presented with melena, and who, on biopsy was diagnosed as amphicrine carcinoma that was mismatch repair deficient (MMRd) with loss of MLH1/PMS2 nuclear expression by immunohistochemistry. The histological and immunohistochemical findings of this rare entity are presented with review of pertinent literature.
Bilateral rubber hand illusion induced by unilateral visuotactile stimulation
Authors: Yamamoto Shinya
Published: September 2024

The rubber hand illusion involves the sense of body ownership of a fake hand. We showed that concurrent visuotactile stimuli to unilateral rubber and real hands can induce the embodiment of bilateral rubber hands when both rubber hands are positioned on the table. This phenomenon indicates that the brain has an integrated representation of the sense of body ownership for both hands.
Deep venous thrombosis, as the earliest presenting feature of gallbladder carcinoma: Case report
Authors: Adikari Yugantha , Wijesinghe Harshima , Fernandopulle Nilesh , Subasinghe Duminda
Published: September 2024

Deep venous thrombosis is a common and potentially life-threatening condition that is often associated with various risk factors including underlying malignancy. In this case report, we present a male patient who presented with deep venous thrombosis as the earliest presenting feature of metastatic gallbladder carcinoma. This case report emphasizes the importance of thorough evaluation of patients presenting with unprovoked deep venous thrombosis to early detection of underlying malignancy.
Usability Assessment of a Conversational Agent Among Older Adults Ages 65+: Gender and Marital Status Differences
Authors: Gleaton Emily , Catrambone Richard
Published: September 2024

Understanding how technology enhances the well-being of older adults is crucial with an aging population. While smart technologies hold promise, older adults often abandon or disuse many of these technologies. Evidence suggests that spousal support might improve user experience, but there is limited quantitative research investigating whether differences in user experience exist between individuals of different marital statuses. A five (relationship type) by two (gender) ANOVA was performed using an archival dataset with 194 older adults ( x̅ age = 69.5). Results indicated no significant effects for marital status, F (4, 190) = 0.99, p > 0.05, or gender, F (1, 190) = 2.18, p > 0.05, on user experience. However, the interaction effect was significant F (4, 190) = 3.04, p < 0.05. Post hoc analysis revealed a significant difference ( p < 0.05) in user experience scores between widowed males ( x̅ = -1.17, σ = 1.36) and widowed females ( x̅ = 0.30, σ = 0.91). These results suggest a gender difference between widowed individuals, with females exhibiting higher user experience scores than males. No other significant pairwise comparisons were found. Further exploration of the role of spousal support in technology use within this demographic is necessary.
A Sociology of Artificial Intelligence: Inequalities, Power, and Data Justice
Authors: Joyce Kelly , Cruz Taylor M.
Published: September 2024

Recent years have witnessed a surge of interest in artificial intelligence (AI). To address AI’s growing visibility and importance, the authors edited a special collection that showcases cutting-edge sociological research on AI in areas such as health and medicine, work and labor, new research methodologies, and policy. The articles collectively position AI as a sociotechnical system, recognizing that AI integrates heterogeneous elements that intertwine the social and the technical. Each article brings different aspects of sociotechnical systems to light. The authors highlight three contributions sociologists are poised to make to the study of AI: (1) critical analysis of AI hype, promotion, and adoption; (2) empirical study of AI’s co-constitution with processes of social life; and (3) identification of avenues for structural change in creating equitable AI futures. The authors call for the development of novel research methods to study distributed AI platforms and for future research on inequalities, power, and data justice.
The role of critical remote sensing in environmental justice struggles
Authors: Segarra Joel , González-Fernández Andrea , Osorno-Covarrubias Javier , Couturier Stéphane
Published: September 2024

Since the 1970s, remote sensing has been used to monitor the environment, address national security concerns, and manage Earth resources within a market framework. However, environmental organizations can also utilize remote sensing data infrastructure to support oppositional narratives, legal processes, and direct action. We present a framework for the socio-technical practice of remote sensing in alliance with those communities and organizations that are struggling for environmental justice on the global commodity frontiers. Positioned at the intersection of critical geography and political ecology, we examine the ways that critical remote sensing has been adopted in five major types of environmental conflict: struggles opposing fossil fuel exploitation, timber extraction, intensive food production, water management practices, and the effects of mining. We present a baseline inventory of remote sensing resources that are useful to the five conflict types and are freely accessible online. A global perspective on the planetary environmental crisis is essential, and we suggest that remote sensing practitioners can, through workshops or online tutorials, help environmental justice organizations towards independent use of remote sensing data. The local communities should then determine whether remote sensing products can contribute to their struggles.
Mitochondrial dsRNA from B-ALL cells stimulates mesenchymal stromal cells to become cancer-associated fibroblasts
Authors: Burt Richard J. , Dey Aditi , Akarca Ayse , Allen Hermione , Amerikanou Rodothea , Atkinson Samantha , Auty David , Chatzigerou Jenny , Cutler Emily , Guerra-Assuncao Jose Afonso , Kirschner Kristina , Kumari Ruchi , Manji Jiten , Marafioti Teresa , Ward Juma , Fielding Adele K.
Published: September 2024

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) arising from bone marrow–derived mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are prominent in B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL). We have previously shown that CAF formation is triggered by exposure to reactive oxygen species–inducing chemotherapy and that CAFs support chemoresistance by donating mitochondria to the cancer cells through tunneling nanotubes. In the present study, we show that exposure of MSCs to ALL cell lines, patient-derived xenografts, and primary cells or their conditioned media can also trigger CAF formation. Using bulk RNA sequencing in cell lines, we show that the MSC to CAF transition is accompanied by a robust interferon pathway response, and we have validated this finding in primary cells. Using confocal microscopy and flow cytometry, we identify the uptake of leukemia cell–derived mitochondrial double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) by MSCs as a proximate trigger for the MSC to CAF transition. We demonstrate that inhibiting dsRNA formation in ALL cells by treatment with low-dose ethidium bromide or the mitochondrial transcription inhibitor IMT1, or degrading dsRNA in conditioned media by 100°C exposure eliminates the ability of the ALL conditioned media to stimulate MSC to CAF transition. Our data reveal, to our knowledge, a novel and previously undescribed mechanism by which cancer cells induce a CAF phenotype in stromal cells, showing how B-ALL cells can directly induce the previously described niche-mediated protection within the bone marrow.
Liver-related aspects of valoctocogene roxaparvovec gene therapy for hemophilia A: expert guidance for clinical practice
Authors: La Mura Vincenzo , Cardinale Vincenzo , De Cristofaro Raimondo , De Santis Adriano , Di Minno Giovanni , Fabris Luca , Marra Fabio , Morisco Filomena , Peyvandi Flora , Pompili Maurizio , Santoro Cristina , Zanon Ezio , Castaman Giancarlo
Published: September 2024

Adeno-associated virus–based gene therapy (valoctocogene roxaparvovec) is an attractive treatment for hemophilia A. Careful clinical management is required to minimize the risk of hepatotoxicity, including assessment of baseline liver condition to determine treatment eligibility and monitoring liver function after gene therapy. This article describes recommendations (developed by a group of hemophilia experts) on hepatic function monitoring before and after gene therapy. To prevent harmful liver-related effects, gene therapy is contraindicated in patients with uncontrolled liver infections, autoimmune hepatitis, liver stiffness ≥8 kPa, or cirrhosis. Before using gene therapy in patients with liver steatosis or other liver disorders, the risk of liver damage should be considered using a highly individualized approach. Treatment is not recommended in patients with abnormal liver enzymes, including alanine aminotransferase (ALT) at any level above the upper limit of normal (ULN). Therefore, pretreatment assessment of liver health should include laboratory tests, abdominal ultrasound, and liver stiffness measurements by transient elastography (TE). In the first year after therapy, ALT levels should be monitored 1 to 2 times per week to detect elevations ≥1.5× ULN, which may require immunosuppressant therapy. Patients with ALT elevation should receive prednisone 60 mg/d for 2 weeks, followed by stepwise tapering when ALT returns to baseline. ALT monitoring should continue long term (every 3-6 months), along with abdominal ultrasound (every 6 months) and TE (yearly) evaluations. When patients with good liver health are selected for treatment and closely monitored thereafter, ALT elevations can be promptly treated and are expected to resolve without long-term hepatic sequelae.
Acute and preventive treatment of menstrual migraine: a meta-analysis
Authors: Khoo Cindy Ciat-Wuah , Liu Chan-Cheng , Lu Michael , Huang Yu-Chen , Weng Hsing-Yu
Published: September 2024

Background and objectives

About a quarter of migraine cases among women have menstrual migraine (MM), which is usually more severe, longer lasting, and less responsive to treatment than typical migraine. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have evaluated the efficacy of several medication in the acute and preventive treatment of MM; this meta-analysis compared the effectiveness of these treatments.

Methods

We conducted systematic searches in the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, and Embase databases. The primary outcomes of acute treatment trials were pain relief at 2 and 24 h after treatment compared with placebo or another treatment. The three endpoints we checked for studying MM prevention were: no recurrence of headaches each month, a 50% reduction in monthly migraine days from baseline, and a decrease in the mean number of headache days per month.

Results

Out of 342 studies, 26 RCTs met the criteria. Triptans, combined with or without other analgesics, were superior to placebo in providing pain relief in the acute treatment and prevention of MM. Among the treatments, sumatriptan and lasmiditan demonstrated superior pain relief at 2 h (OR: 4.62) and 24 h (OR: 4.81). Frovatriptan exhibited effectiveness in preventing headache recurrence, whereas galcanezumab and erenumab displayed significant preventive benefits in reducing headache days per month.

Conclusion

Sumatriptan and lasmiditan are effective first-line treatments for acute MM. For prevention, frovatriptan may be the more effective of triptans. Compared with triptans, CGRP monoclonal antibodies, here including erenumab and galcanezumab, are more effective in reducing headache days, and therefore, in preventing MM.
Facile synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Calotropis procera leaves: unraveling biological and electrochemical potentials
Authors: Nagime Pooja V. , Shaikh Nishat M. , Shaikh Sohel B. , Lokhande Chandrakant D. , Patil Vinod V. , Shafi Sheeba , Syukri Dwi Marlina , Chidrawar Vijay R. , Kumar Ashwini , Singh Sudarshan
Published: September 2024

Highlights

CPL-AgNPs exhibited improved biomimetic attributes.

Antibiotic resistance against pathogens were challenged through use of CPL-AgNPs.

Supercapacitor application of facile synthesized AgNPs for the first time demonstrated improved physical application.
Experiences of patients with advanced chronic diseases and their associates with a structured palliative care nurse visit followed by an interprofessional case conference in primary care – a deductive-inductive content analysis based on qualitative interviews (KOPAL-Study)
Authors: Pohontsch Nadine Janis , Weber Jan , Stiel Stephanie , Schade Franziska , Nauck Friedemann , Timm Janina , Scherer Martin , Marx Gabriella
Published: September 2024

Background

Chronic, non-malignant diseases (CNMD) like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), congestive heart failure (CHF) and dementia in advanced stages are very burdensome for patients. Timely palliative care with strong collaboration between general practitioners (GPs) and specialist palliative home care (SPHC) teams can reduce symptom burden, hospitalization rates, hospitalization costs and overall healthcare costs. The KOPAL-study on strengthening interprofessional collaboration for patients with palliative care needs tested the effect of an intervention comprising of a SPHC nurse assessment and an interprofessional case conference. This qualitative evaluative study explores patients’, proxies’ and their associates’ motivation to participate in the KOPAL-study and views on the (benefits of the) intervention.

Methods

We interviewed 13 male and 10 female patients as well as 14 proxies of patients with dementia and six associates of study participants using a semi-structured interview guide. All interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed with deductive-inductive qualitative content analysis.

Results

Motivation for participation was driven by curiosity, the aim to please the GP or to support research, respectively to help other patients. Few interviewees pointed out to have expected positive effects for themselves. The nurse visit was evaluated very positively. Positive changes concerning health care or quality of life were reported sparsely. Most study participants did not prepare for the SPHC nurse assessment. They had no expectations concerning potential benefits of such an assessment, the interdisciplinary case conference and an early integration of palliative care. The majority of interviewees reported that they did not talk about the nurse visit and the interprofessional case conference with their GPs.

Conclusion

Our results lead to the conclusion that SPHC nurses can serve as an advocate for the patient and thereby support the patients’ autonomy. GPs should actively discuss the results of the interdisciplinary case conference with patients and collaboratively decide on further actions. Patient participation in the interdisciplinary case conference could be another way to increase the effects of the intervention by empowering patients to not just passively receive the intervention.

Trial registration

DRKS00017795 German Clinical Trials Register, 17Nov2021, version 05.
Communication during telemedicine consultations in general practice: perspectives from general practitioners and their patients
Authors: Nguyen Amy D , White Sarah J. , Tse Tim , Cartmill John A. , Roger Peter , Hatem Sarah , Willcock Simon M.
Published: September 2024

Background

Telemedicine allows delivery of healthcare to occur between parties that are not in the same location. As telemedicine users are not co-present, effective communication methods are crucial to the delivery and reception of information. The aim of this study was to explore perspectives of general practitioners (GPs) and patients on the interactional components of telemedicine consultations.

Methods

Semi-structured qualitative interviews were held with telemedicine users; 15 GPs and nine patients self-selected from a larger telemedicine study. Participants were asked about their preparation for telemedicine consultations, conducting telemedicine consultations and post-consultation activities. Deidentified transcripts from the interviews were analysed thematically.

Results

GPs and patients discussed factors they used to decide whether a consultation would be best conducted by telemedicine or in-person; the condition to be discussed, the existing doctor-patient relationship and whether physical examination was required. Participants also described how they prepared for their telemedicine consultations, gathering relevant documents, and reading previous notes. Participants described strategies they employed to optimise the telemedicine interaction; improving conversational flow and building rapport, as well as difficulties they experienced when trying to provide and receive care via telemedicine.

Conclusions

Patient factors including health literacy and familiarity with technology affect the transfer of information shared during telemedicine consultations and consideration of these factors when choosing patients for telemedicine is required. Many GPs and patients have innate communication skills to effectively deliver and receive care through telemedicine. However, they may not be aware of these subconscious techniques to use to optimise telemedicine consultations. Communication training could be delivered to increase conversational flow, build rapport, and establish safety netting.
Can formal home and community-based care substitute informal care? Evidence from Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey
Authors: Wang Yixiao , Wu Bei , Yang Wei
Published: September 2024

Background

Formal home and community-based care are often considered as the preferable option to institutional care, offering older individuals the convenience of receiving care in their homes. Although research has found that these services may alleviate the burden on informal caregivers, there is a lack of research on which specific types of formal home and community-based care influence informal care provision.

Methods

Employing fixed-effects and quantile regression models, this study seeks to explore the effects that various formal home and community-based care services have on reducing the burden of informal care. This study draws data from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey 2005, 2008, 2011, 2014, and 2018.

Results

Our findings indicate that two types of formal care substantially influence the provision of informal care. The availability of daily living assistance services correlates with reduced informal caregiving hours, especially for those with extensive care needs. The availability of community-based health care services is linked to a reduction in the direct expenses incurred from informal caregiving, especially for those incurring greater direct caregiving costs. These effects are more prominent among urban residents. Other services, such as mental health support and legal advice services, do not demonstrate significant effects on reducing informal care hours and costs.

Conclusions

Daily living assistance and community-based health care services play a crucial role in benefiting informal caregivers. It is important to prioritize the expansion of these services, especially among those with greater care needs.
Clostridium autoethanogenum alters cofactor synthesis, redox metabolism, and lysine-acetylation in response to elevated H2:CO feedstock ratios for enhancing carbon capture efficiency
Authors: Davin Megan E. , Thompson R. Adam , Giannone Richard J. , Mendelson Lucas W. , Carper Dana L. , Martin Madhavi Z. , Martin Michael E. , Engle Nancy L. , Tschaplinski Timothy J. , Brown Steven D. , Hettich Robert L.
Published: September 2024

Background

Clostridium autoethanogenum is an acetogenic bacterium that autotrophically converts carbon monoxide (CO) and carbon dioxide (CO2) gases into bioproducts and fuels via the Wood–Ljungdahl pathway (WLP). To facilitate overall carbon capture efficiency, the reaction stoichiometry requires supplementation of hydrogen at an increased ratio of H2:CO to maximize CO2 utilization; however, the molecular details and thus the ability to understand the mechanism of this supplementation are largely unknown.

Results

In order to elucidate the microbial physiology and fermentation where at least 75% of the carbon in ethanol comes from CO2, we established controlled chemostats that facilitated a novel and high (11:1) H2:CO uptake ratio. We compared and contrasted proteomic and metabolomics profiles to replicate continuous stirred tank reactors (CSTRs) at the same growth rate from a lower (5:1) H2:CO condition where ~ 50% of the carbon in ethanol is derived from CO2. Our hypothesis was that major changes would be observed in the hydrogenases and/or redox-related proteins and the WLP to compensate for the elevated hydrogen feed gas. Our analyses did reveal protein abundance differences between the two conditions largely related to reduction–oxidation (redox) pathways and cofactor biosynthesis, but the changes were more minor than we would have expected. While the Wood–Ljungdahl pathway proteins remained consistent across the conditions, other post-translational regulatory processes, such as lysine-acetylation, were observed and appeared to be more important for fine-tuning this carbon metabolism pathway. Metabolomic analyses showed that the increase in H2:CO ratio drives the organism to higher carbon dioxide utilization resulting in lower carbon storages and accumulated fatty acid metabolite levels.

Conclusions

This research delves into the intricate dynamics of carbon fixation in C. autoethanogenum, examining the influence of highly elevated H2:CO ratios on metabolic processes and product outcomes. The study underscores the significance of optimizing gas feed composition for enhanced industrial efficiency, shedding light on potential mechanisms, such as post-translational modifications (PTMs), to fine-tune enzymatic activities and improve desired product yields.
Polystyrene nanoplastic exposure actives ferroptosis by oxidative stress-induced lipid peroxidation in porcine oocytes during maturation
Authors: He Yijing , Yu Tianhang , Li Heran , Sun Qinfeng , Chen Miaoyu , Lin Yiyi , Dai Jianjun , Wang Weihan , Li Qiao , Ju Shiqiang
Published: September 2024

Background

Polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) are becoming increasingly prevalent in the environment with great advancements in plastic products, and their potential health hazard to animals has received much attention. Several studies have reported the toxicity of PS-NPs to various tissues and cells; however, there is a paucity of information about whether PS-NPs exposure can have toxic effects on mammalian oocytes, especially livestock. Herein, porcine oocytes were used as the model to investigate the potential effects of PS-NPs on mammalian oocytes.

Results

The findings showed that different concentrations of PS-NPs (0, 25, 50 and 100 μg/mL) entering into porcine oocytes could induce mitochondrial stress, including a significant decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and the destruction of the balance of mitochondrial dynamic and micromorphology. Furthermore, there was a marked increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS), which led to oocyte lipid peroxidation (LPO). PS-NPs exposure induced abnormal intracellular iron overload, and subsequently increased the expression of transferrin receptor (TfRC), solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7a11), and acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family member 4 (ACSL4), which resulted in ferroptosis in oocytes. PS-NPs also induced oocyte maturation failure, cytoskeletal dysfunction and DNA damage. Cotreatment with 5 μmol/L ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1, an inhibitor of ferroptosis) alleviated the cellular toxicity associated with PS-NPs exposure during porcine oocyte maturation.

Conclusions

In conclusion, PS-NPs caused ferroptosis in porcine oocytes by increasing oxidative stress and altering lipid metabolism, leading to the failure of oocyte maturation.

Graphical Abstract

PS-NPs could enter oocytes, caused mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress, induced lipid peroxidation and ferroptosis, which eventually resulted in failure of oocyte maturation.
Spatial-temporal distribution of neglected tropical diseases burdens in China from 2005 to 2020
Authors: Ouyang Hanqi , Zhao Ziyu , Fall Ibrahima Socé , Djirmay Amadou Garba , Ohore Okugbe Ebiotubo , Bergquist Robert , Yang Guojing
Published: September 2024

Background

Out of the 21 neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) listed by the World Health Organization, 15 affect the People’s Republic of China. Despite significant achievements in controlling NTDs, comprehensive assessments of the disease burden based on actual case data and detailed information on spatial and temporal dynamics are still lacking. This study aims to assess the disease burden and spatial–temporal distribution of NTDs in China from 2005 to 2020, to provide a reference for the formulation of national health agendas in line with the global health agenda, and guide resource allocation.

Methods

The number of cases and deaths of major NTDs in China from 2005 to 2020 were downloaded from the China Public Health Science Data Center (https://www.phsciencedata.cn/Share/index.jsp) of the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention and relevant literatures. Simplified formulas for disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) helped estimate the years of life lost (YLLs), years lived with disability (YLDs), and total DALYs. Spatial autocorrelation analysis of the average NTDs burden data for the years 2005 to 2020 was evaluated using Moran's I statistic.

Results

China's overall NTDs burden decreased significantly, from 245,444.53 DALYs in 2005 to 18,984.34 DALYs in 2020, marking a reduction of 92.27%. In 2005, the DALYs caused by schistosomiasis and rabies represent a substantial proportion of the total disease burden, accounting for 65.37% and 34.43% respectively. In 2015, Hunan and Sichuan provinces had the highest diversity of NTDs, with 9 and 8 number of different NTDs reported respectively. And the highest disease burden was observed in Sichuan (242,683.46 DALYs), Xizang Zizhiqu (178,318.99 DALYs) and Guangdong (154,228.31 DALYs). The “high-high” clustering areas of NTDs were mainly in China's central and southern regions, as identified by spatial autocorrelation analysis.

Conclusions

China has made unremitting efforts in the prevention and control of NTDs, and the disease burden of major NTDs in China has decreased significantly. Using the One Health concept to guide disease prevention and control in the field to effectively save medical resources and achieve precise intervention.

Graphical abstract
Acute lung injury and post-cardiac arrest syndrome: a narrative review
Authors: Endo Yusuke , Aoki Tomoaki , Jafari Daniel , Rolston Daniel M. , Hagiwara Jun , Ito-Hagiwara Kanako , Nakamura Eriko , Kuschner Cyrus E. , Becker Lance B. , Hayashida Kei
Published: September 2024

Background

Post-cardiac arrest syndrome (PCAS) presents a multifaceted challenge in clinical practice, characterized by severe neurological injury and high mortality rates despite advancements in management strategies. One of the important critical aspects of PCAS is post-arrest lung injury (PALI), which significantly contributes to poor outcomes. PALI arises from a complex interplay of pathophysiological mechanisms, including trauma from chest compressions, pulmonary ischemia–reperfusion (IR) injury, aspiration, and systemic inflammation. Despite its clinical significance, the pathophysiology of PALI remains incompletely understood, necessitating further investigation to optimize therapeutic approaches.

Methods

This review comprehensively examines the existing literature to elucidate the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and therapeutic strategies for PALI. A comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify preclinical and clinical studies investigating PALI. Data from these studies were synthesized to provide a comprehensive overview of PALI and its management.

Results

Epidemiological studies have highlighted the substantial prevalence of PALI in post-cardiac arrest patients, with up to 50% of survivors experiencing acute lung injury. Diagnostic imaging modalities, including chest X-rays, computed tomography, and lung ultrasound, play a crucial role in identifying PALI and assessing its severity. Pathophysiologically, PALI encompasses a spectrum of factors, including chest compression-related trauma, pulmonary IR injury, aspiration, and systemic inflammation, which collectively contribute to lung dysfunction and poor outcomes. Therapeutically, lung-protective ventilation strategies, such as low tidal volume ventilation and optimization of positive end-expiratory pressure, have emerged as cornerstone approaches in the management of PALI. Additionally, therapeutic hypothermia and emerging therapies targeting mitochondrial dysfunction hold promise in mitigating PALI-related morbidity and mortality.

Conclusion

PALI represents a significant clinical challenge in post-cardiac arrest care, necessitating prompt diagnosis and targeted interventions to improve outcomes. Mitochondrial-related therapies are among the novel therapeutic strategies for PALI. Further clinical research is warranted to optimize PALI management and enhance post-cardiac arrest care paradigms.

Graphical Abstract