bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phenotypic, Molecular Detection, and Antibiogram Analysis of Pseudomonas strain from Oreochromis Niloticus .L 1758 (Nile Tilapia) from aquaculture pond, Ethiopia
Authors: Abdi Alemu kebede , pavanasam NATARAJAN , Rufael Tesfaye , Senbata Bayeta , Mohamed Abde Aliy
Published: September 2024

Pseudomonas species (including P. aeruginosa, P. putida, and P. fluorescens) are zoonotic bacterial pathogens that frequently cause disease and significant mortality among both cultured and wild fish worldwide. In Ethiopia, Pseudomonas species have been identified in Sebeta fish ponds and Rift Valley lakes. However, information on the molecular and phenotypic characteristics of Pseudomonas species in Ethiopian aquaculture ponds is limited. To address this gap, a cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2022 to May 2023 in selected aquaculture ponds in Ethiopia. A total of 637 samples were aseptically collected from the muscle, liver, spleen, and kidney of fish in these ponds using purposive sampling methods. The samples were cultured on Pseudomonas base agar with the selective supplement cetriNix (FD029) media and glycerol and subjected to morphological and biochemical tests to isolate and identify Pseudomonas species. The pathogen was isolated from 81 samples, accounting for 12.7% of the total. Among these isolates, 85.6% exhibited virulence traits, such as β-hemolysis on blood agar with 5% sheep blood. Additionally, 75 strains (92.59%) were confirmed using conventional PCR with Pseudomonas-specific primers and an optimized protocol. Among the PCR-positive samples, 8 (10.66%) were identified as P. aeruginosa, 28 (37.63%) as P. putida, and 39 (52%) as P. fluorescens from Nile Tilapia (O. niloticus). Antibiotic susceptibility testing on ten representative isolates showed that all Pseudomonas isolates were susceptible to Ciprofloxacin, Gentamicin, and Ceftriaxone, but resistant to Amoxicillin and Penicillin. The study concludes that Pseudomonas species (including P. aeruginosa, P. putida, and P. fluorescens) strains carrying the virulence gene Psul, which are β-hemolytic and resistant to commonly used antibiotics in human and veterinary medicine, are present in Ethiopian aquaculture. The detection of this pathogen in 75 fish samples is concerning due to the potential for outbreaks and zoonotic transmission. Therefore, further research into the molecular epidemiology of the disease is needed to understand potential inter-host transmission and antibiotic resistance traits. Additionally, public awareness about the risks of consuming undercooked or raw fish meat should be raised.
The Association Between Family Rituals, Family Functioning, and Student Well-being
Among Asian Undergraduates
Authors: Perez Jeannie A. , Tauy Jhunar John M. , Gomes Cedila P. , Pitogo Eden Grace , Ynalvez Cherry V.
Published: September 2024

Family rituals and routines are associated with family dynamics and children’s well-being. However, no study examines the specific family ritual and routine settings related to family functioning and student well-being. This study explores the association of family rituals and routine settings- such as dinnertime, weekends, and annual celebrations—on family functioning and student well-being. Likewise, it investigates whether family functioning mediates the association between family rituals and student well-being. This non-experimental quantitative research involved 622 undergraduate students from Thailand, Vietnam, India, and the Philippines with 71 percent female, and 29 percent male participants. The participants completed an online survey that included the Family Ritual Questionnaire, McMaster Family Functioning Scale, and the Student Well-being Scale (Five-Factor). Path analysis was conducted using the PROCESS module within the SMART-PLS environment to examine the proposed model. Results indicate that weekends and annual celebrations are positively associated with overall student wellbeing, whereas dinnertime is not. However, dinnertime, weekends, and annual celebrations are positively associated with family functioning. Family functioning served as a mediating factor for the positive associations of all three settings on student well-being, controlling for the effects of gender and country differences. Additionally, the study found variations in well-being across countries and variations in family functioning by gender and by country. These results emphasize the importance of fostering and maintaining family rituals and routines to enhance overall family dynamics and student well-being within Asian contexts.
CORRELATION ENTRE LES PARAMETRES DE MYCORHIZATIONET LES METAUX LOURDS DANS UN CHAMP EXPERIMENTAL DE TOMATE DANS LA REGION DE SAGUIA, SUD-OUEST NIAMEY
Authors:   Laboratoire Biologie/ENS/ Universite Abdou Moumouni, BP 10 960 Niamey (Niger)., Salissou Ibrahim Jamilou , Doka Dahiratou Ibrahim ,   Laboratoire Biologie/ENS/ Universite Abdou Moumouni, BP 10 960 Niamey (Niger)., Abdou Issoufou Mamane ,   Laboratoire Materiaux Eaux Environnement/FAST/Universite Abdou Moumouni, PB 10 662 Niamey (Niger)., Moussa Barage ,   Faculte DAgronomie, Universite Abdou Moumouni, BP 10 960 Niamey (Niger).
Published: September 2024

The use of mineralfertilizersat the local levelis the basis of soil pollution in Niger, adding to the aridity in the Sahel. The objective of thisstudyis to analyze the correlationbetweenmycorrhizationparameters and heavymetals in the experimentaltomatofield in the study area of Sguia, southwest Niamey. The experimentaldeviceis a Ficher block with 48 plots, thensoil and rootletsampleswerecollected and analyzed in the mycologylaboratory by the methods of extraction of spores of arbsclairemycorrhizalfungi (CMA) and those of mycorrhizationparameter analyses. Total heavymetals (Pb, Cu, Zn, Ni and Cr) weremeasuredafteracid digestion (HF + HNO3) withmicrowaves of crushedsoils. For data processing, the Pearson test and the principal component analysis (PCA) test wereapplied. The resultsobtained show that the correlationbetween the differentgenera of spores (Glommusspp.,Gigasporaspp. and Scutellosporaspp.) isverystrongwith a positive interaction, but between the genera of spores and heavymetals, thiscorrelationisveryweak. The linearcorrelation test showed a verystrongcorrelation in the positive direction between all the mycorrhizalparameters. Thenbetween the CMA spores and someheavymetalsincludingcopper (Cu), nickel (Ni) and chromium (Cr). It appearsthat the soilsstudied are not contaminated by pollutants.
EFFICIENCY OF TRANSCUTANEOUS ELECTRICAL NERVE STIMULATION AND PIROXICAM TO ALLEVIATE PAIN DURING ORTHODONTIC TOOTH SEPARATION - A PROSPECTIVE STUDY
Authors: Bahadur Archit , K. Chandna Anil , Bhandari Ravi , Bhattacharya Deepankar , Ankur Gupta Sr. , Irshad Resham
Published: September 2024

Objective: This study was conducted to assess the effectiveness of TENS in comparison with TENS-Placebo and prophylactic Piroxicam (20 mg) for pain control before orthodontic tooth separation by Elastomeric separators, Brasswire and Kesling separators. Study design: 108 patients seeking orthodontic treatment were categorically administered extraoral TENS, TENS-Placebo and Piroxicam (20 mg) using Elastomeric, Kesling and Brasswire separators prior to their orthodontic treatment. The subjects were instructed to rate their pain 2, 6, 12, 24 and 48 hours after the procedure on a Visual Analog Scale. Results: No statistically significant difference was found in the mean VAS scores when TENS group was compared with Piroxicam. However, significant differences were found between the mean VAS scores when placebo TENS group was compared to the aforementioned groups. Maximum pain was perceived at 24 hours with elastomeric and Kesling springs, but brasswire separators were most painful 6 hours after placement altogether. At all time stamps, pain felt was significantly less with brasswire separators than elastomeric separators and Kesling springs. Conclusion: TENS was found to be equally effective in reducing pain as Piroxicam. TENS could be thus stated as an effective pain management modality which is safe, comfortable and easy to use and also eliminates adverse drug effects of NSAIDs like GI irritation and reduced orthodontic tooth movement.
Influence of pre-inoculation of soybean seeds with Bradyrhizobium 15 days before sowing
Authors: Venancio Wilson Story , Dallago Eduardo Gilberto , Slusarz Gislaine Martins , Boratto Ibraian Valério , Boratto Vanessa Nathalie Modesto , Leite Ana Carolina , Cuenca Rebeca , Ratuchne Aline
Published: September 2024

Nitrogen is an essential nutrient for the soybean cultivation, which can be fully supplied by the biological nitrogen fixation process. This study evaluated the effectiveness of pre-inoculation of soybean seeds with the inoculant Biofix Protec (Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens SEMIA 5080 and Bradyrhizobium japonicum SEMIA 5079, 5x109 UFC/mL), accompanied by cell protector and chemical treatment. Four trials were done in Brazilian states during the soybean harvest 2021/2022, following a randomized complete block design with six replications. The cultivars used were TMG 7067 IPRO Inox, BRS 245 RR, N 7780 PRO, and Extrema IPRO, chosen according to the characteristics of each region. The treatments were: T1- Control, without inoculation; T2- Fertilization with 200 kg/ha of nitrogen; T3- Inoculation with commercial inoculant (50 mL/50 kg of seeds) on the day of sowing; T4- Biofix Protec (100 mL/50 kg of seeds), cell protector (0.5 mL/kg), Potenzial TS (0.2 mL/kg) and CoMo Platinum (100 mL/ha), all applied 15 days before planting. The results indicated that the application of Biofix Protec 15 days before planting increased the nodulation of the main root and the dry mass of nodules. The pre-inoculation of Biofix Protect, with protective agents and chemical treatments, demonstrated comparable efficacy to the inoculation carried out at the time of sowing and increase in yield between 4.8-11%, compared to the control, being statistically equivalent or superior to the commercial inoculant available in the market, applied on the day of sowing. The use of Biofix Protec favored nodulation and enhanced productivity, being recommended for the treatment of soybean seeds in agricultural production systems.
Physiological and sanitary quality of sorghum seeds under the effect of oxalic and salicylic acid
Authors: de Oliveira Gemerson Machado , Souza Jardel da Silva , de Sousa Alex Sandro Bezerra , Porcino Mirelly Miguel , Nascimento Luciana Cordeiro do , Santos Eduardo Felipe da Silva , Oliveira Matheus Siqueira de , Unêda-Trevisoli Sandra Helena
Published: September 2024

Sorghum is one of the world's most important cereal crops, but it is susceptible to several diseases, particularly fungal diseases, with seeds being the main vehicle for dissemination. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of salicylic acid (SA) and oxalic acid (OA) on the physiological and sanitary quality of sorghum seeds. The seeds of Sorghum bicolor (L.) were immersed for 1 hour in solutions of OA (0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 mM) and SA (0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 mM). A treatment with Captan® fungicide was also used, and the control group was immersed in distilled H2O for 1 hour. Variables from seed vigor tests and fungal incidence tests were evaluated. The control group showed the highest germination rate. However, among the treatments, the doses of 1 mM OA and 0.5 mM SA resulted in higher germination in the first germination count. The application of 1 mM OA and both doses of SA (0.5 mM and 1 mM) promoted a greater seedling vigor index (GVI). Seeds treated with 1 mM OA and doses of 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2.0 mM SA, as well as those treated with fungicide, had the highest emergence rates, and with 1.5 mM SA, the highest length of the longest root (LVEI). Seedlings from seeds treated with 0.5, 1, and 1.5 mM SA and with 0.5 and 1.5 mM had the highest coleoptile length (CPA). The 0.5 mM dose of SA reduced the incidence of Aspergillus flavus, and the doses of 2 mM OA and 1, 1.5, and 2 mM SA reduced the incidence of Rhizopus stolonifer to 0%. SA provided the best physiological and health effects for sorghum seeds, making it the best treatment.
El abogado como sujeto socialmente responsable en Colombia en el ejercicio de su profesión en asuntos de familia
Authors: Montoya Ahmedt Carlos Arturo
Published: September 2024

La incorporación de la institución familiar en el articulado nor­mativo constitucional colombiano de 1991, ha significado el recono­cimiento de una protección especial a la familia en tanto desempeña un papel fundamental en la configuración del entramado social. Es por ello que el abogado de familia, en el marco de una gestión pro­fesional socialmente responsable, habrá de propender por la generación permanente de actuaciones estratégicas o de alto impacto en beneficio de la armonía y la unidad familiar, las cuales abunden en garantías para la convivencia pacífica en procura del interés social antes que el particular.
Consideraciones teóricas en torno a la necesidad de regulación del derecho a la protección de datos en Cuba
Authors: Gallardo Villavicencio Mayda
Published: September 2024

Este artículo pretende contribuir a la reflexión en torno a la ne­cesidad de regulación de la protección de datos personales en Cuba. La autora parte del concepto de dignidad previsto en la legislación cubana, sobre el cual habría de constituirse el derecho a la autode­terminación informativa. En el texto se hace referencia a la situación de los países del área iberoamericana, en la mayoría de los cuales existe una regulación detallada sobre este derecho. Se aportan además las líneas funda­mentales que deberían orientar la regulación en Cuba, y se señalan también diversos argumentos a favor de esta normativa en el país.
Carl Schmitt, democracia y conflicto político. Aportes para una discusión contemporánea
Authors: Ayala Ruiz Sergio
Published: September 2024

Este artículo pretende situar, a partir de un diálogo teórico con Carl Schmitt, las implicaciones de una comprensión «existencial» del conflicto político a la hora de pensar la democracia. El diálogo hace igualmente uso de lecturas contemporáneas de algunos autores (Mouffe, Zizek) a propósito de las menciones del jurista alemán en relación con la cuestión de la democracia. Se argumenta que la dimensión existencial del conflicto político le plantea fuertes retos al formalismo liberal convencional, pero no por ello deja de inquietar la cuestión de la pluralidad y la pregunta por la diferencia en la democracia.|
Improved YOLOv8 garment sewing defect detection method based on attention mechanism
Authors: Xu Zengbo , Bao Yuchen , Tian Bingqiang
Published: September 2024

For the garment sewing defect detection method, this paper proposes an improved YOLOv8-FPCA scheme based on the YOLOv8 algorithm, which improves the YOLOv8 target detection head to enhance the information extraction of small target defects, then introduces Focal Loss to optimize the loss function to guide the network to better handle target data sets with different difficulties and imbalances. Finally, the attention mechanism CA is added to the YOLOv8 network structure to achieve multi-scale feature fusion extraction, and the attention mechanisms CABM and SENet are added at the same locations for experimental comparison. The results show that after increasing the attention mechanisms of CBAM and SENet, the mAP@0.5 model increased by 1.7 % and 1.9 % respectively. The CA attention mechanism emphasizes the importance of location information, and the model has better accuracy and recall after adding the CA attention mechanism, with a 3.7 % increase in mAP@0.5, indicating that YOLOv8-CA has better performance in sewing defect detection.
Evolution of Composition of the Gostilitsy Palace and Park Ensemble
Authors:   St. Petersburg Repin Academy of Fine Arts, Sadovnikova Natalia V.
Published: September 2024

The Gostilitsy Palace and Park Ensemble is in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage list. Now in 2021 the palace-park complex is ruined and may be included in List of World Heritage Sites in Danger. This paper built on earlier analyses and presented new research results. Historiographical data about transfer the estate from Razumovsky brothers to other owners Potemkin and also fact of ownership of the estate by merchant Akimov in 1875 were rediscovered. For the first time graphic data is published — piece of the park layout near Lower Pond. Iconographic data are also published, it is watercolor depicting an open wooden gallery, which made it possible a number of findings about the planning structure the estate holding period of the Kirill Razumovsky, and two watercolors with views of the park. The resulting data and using the cartographic method there has been four development periods and Basic Plans were made. Elizabethan Baroque, Classicism and Romantic Gothic — style of the ensemble changed with the building of each new palace. During the ownership of the Gostilitsy by the Siemens family in the late 19th — early 20th centuries, the park was in its prime. Locations of viewpoints in today’s park were identified using watercolors of the 1850s by the artist Vasily Sadovnikov and photographs of the beginning of the 20th century, and the park pictures were recreated using 3D model. Graphic reconstruction of the park mid-19th — early 20th centuries is product of the work. The graphic reconstruction was analyzed in the context of the theory of A. T. Bolotov, and compared with the Palace and Park Ensemble of Bogoroditsk. As a result of art analysis, similar principles of space organization of both parks were noted, and a compositional structure was revealed, which was a landscape network of scenes and transit spaces.
Enhancing groundwater resource detection in Ahmednagar District through an integrated GIS framework utilizing AHP, SI, and FR models
Authors: Dongare Pranit Nitin , Sharma Kul Vaibhav , Kumar Vijendra , Gautam Lilesh , Singh Karan
Published: September 2024

Groundwater resources affected by climate change exacerbate groundwater level declines in areas relying on erratic monsoons and finite surface water supplies. This research developed and compared an integrated geographic information system (GIS) with the analytical hierarchy process (AHP), the statistical index model (SI), and the frequency ratio model (FR). Multiple layers of the GIS framework have captured surface and subsurface characteristics, including rainfall, slope, elevation, land use/land cover, soil, geology, and geomorphology. 30% of the 69 wells in the study area are the testing dataset, and the remaining 70% make up the training dataset. Based on AHP, the results show that 35.34% of the region has low potential, 43.47% has moderate potential, and 21.09% has high potential. While SI modeling reveals 9.60, 57.36, and 24.79% for low, moderate, and high potential, respectively, FR analysis suggests 25.50% low potential, 52.74% moderate potential, and 21.60% high potential areas. The superior reliability of the SI model has been indicated by the validation of the GWPZ map using receiver operating characteristic area under the curve values. The results of this study are crucial for planning sustainable water supplies and managing groundwater resources in areas susceptible to climate change and groundwater depletion.
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in crude oil-contaminated water and soil and their removal using locally available plant materials
Authors: Ayedun Hassan , Jaiyeola Oluyimika Omowoleola , Onigbinde Stephen Oluwapelumi , Folarin Olujimi Moses , Oyedeji Abdulrasaq Olalekan
Published: September 2024

The presence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in water and soil can be harmful to human life when ingested. PAHs are determined in the water and soil of the B-Dere community of Rivers State, Nigeria. The concentration level, source identification, and treatment were carried out. The water samples were treated with garlic and Moringa seed extracts, while the soil samples were treated with garlic and Fenton oxidation reagents. PAHs were extracted before and after treatment. The gas chromatograph mass spectrometer analyses showed 13 PAHs in the water and 10 PAHs in the soil. The highest concentration in water was recorded for benzo(ghi)perylene, with a mean value of 27.7 ± 0.25 ngL−1, while that of soil was recorded for benz(a)anthracene, with a mean value of 14.4 ± 0.631 ngkg−1. The source of PAHs in water was pyrogenic, while that of soil was petrogenic. Garlic extract removed 100% of benz(a)anthracene and benzo(b)fluorothane from the water, while Moringa removed 100% biphenylene from the water. However, garlic extract removed 2.59% of acenaphthylene, while Fenton reagents removed 100% of anthracene, phenathrene, and chrysene from the soil. Moringa seed and garlic extracts can be used in PAH's polluted water treatment.
Expression Profile and Prognostic Values of IRX Family Members in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhang Jieli , Zhou Yanqiu , Li Xiaoli , Wang Shufang , Zhang Peng , Li Dongbing , Zhou Yunzhi
Published: September 2024

Background:

The potential role of the iroquois homeobox (IRX) genes in tumorigenesis
is a subject of interest, yet their specific involvement in lung adenocarcinoma
(LUAD) has not been extensively examined.

Objective:

This research endeavored to explore the impact of the IRX genes on the onset
and progression of LUAD.

Methods:

Utilizing data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), samples of LUAD
were selected for analysis. The influence of the IRX genes was scrutinized through various
tools, including Kaplan-Meier Plotter, cBioPortal, and the R programming language
(version 3.6.3), with gene expression levels being confirmed in cellular models via quantitative
real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR).

Results:

It was observed that the levels of IRX1/2/3/6 were notably diminished in LUAD
tissues when juxtaposed with healthy lung tissue. Conversely, the expression of
IRX4 was found to be elevated in LUAD. Correlations were identified between IRX
gene expression and several clinical parameters such as T stage, smoking history quantified
in pack-years, lymph node involvement, patient gender, initial treatment responses,
and smoking status. The diminished expression of IRX2/5 emerged as a significant indicator
of an unfavorable prognosis in LUAD. The study also highlighted the potential of
various IRX genes as diagnostic indicators for LUAD. These genes were implicated in
the facilitation of LUAD's growth and spread through a range of biological pathways, encompassing
the Ras signaling and more. Additionally, a pronounced link was discovered
between the infiltration of immune cells and the expression patterns of the IRX genes.
IRX genes were abnormally expressed in LUAD cell lines.

Conclusion:

IRX gene family could serve not only as indicators of LUAD prognosis but
also as therapeutic targets for LUAD.
DRP1 Association in Inflammation and Metastasis: A Review
Authors: Nandan Parmar Keshri , Job Anica Tholath , Ramasamy Tamizhselvi
Published: September 2024

:

In recent years, mitochondria have gained significant interest in the field of biomedical
research due to their impact on aging, human health, and other advanced findings in metabolic
functions. The latest finding shows that metabolic interventions are a leading cause of several diseases,
which has sparked interest in finding new therapeutic treatments. Apart from this, the
unique inheritance of genetic material from mother to offspring can help scientists find ways to
prevent mitochondrial inherited diseases. Additionally, the anti-aging benefits of controlling mitochondrial
functions are also being researched. The present study aims to provide a cohesive
overview of the latest findings in mitochondrial research, focusing on the role of DRP1 (Dynamin-
related protein 1), a member of the GTPase family, in mediating mitochondrial fission. The
first section of this paper provides a concise explanation of how DRP1 controls processes such as
mitophagy and mitochondrial fission. Subsequently, the paper delves into the topic of inflammation,
discussing the current findings regarding the inflammatory response mediated by DRP1. Finally,
the role of mitochondrial fission mediated by DRP1 in cancer is examined, reviewing ongoing
research on various types of cancer and their recurrence. Moreover, this review also covers the
epigenetic regulation of mitochondrial fission. The studies were selected, and evaluated, and the
information was collected to present an overview of the key findings. By exploring various aspects
of research and potential links, we hope to contribute to a deeper understanding of the intricate
relationship between the fields of cancer research and inflammation studies with respect to mitochondrial-
based research.
Laparoscopic ureteroplasty of a transplanted kidney using a healthy native ureter
Authors: Guliev B. G. , Komyakov B. K. , Avazkhanov Zh. P. , Abdurakhmanov O. Sh.
Published: September 2024

Introduction. Ureteral strictures are a common urological complication of kidney transplantation. For short narrowings of the ureter, endoscopic operations are used; for extended defects the Boari operation is often performed. An alternative method may be to use a native ureter.

Purpose of the study. To study the results of such operations in four patients.

Materials & methods. We observed four patients with extended ureteral strictures of a transplanted kidney. Among them were three women and one man. Previously, all patients had undergone a cadaveric kidney transplant; the time from the operation itself to the development of stricture ranged from 3 months to 13 years. Initially, all patients underwent percutaneous drainage of the pyelocaliceal system of the transplanted kidney. After stabilization of creatinine values, the pelvis or pyeloureteral segment of the transplanted kidney was isolated using a transperitoneal approach. Further, the lower third of the ipsilateral native ureter was crossed at the level of the iliac vessels. Its upper end was clipped and anastomosis with the pelvis or ureteropelvic junction of the graft was performed.

Results. The procedures were successful in all patients. In three patients the operation was completed using a laparoscopic approach. In one patient in whom extensive ureteral obliteration developed 3 months after transplantation against the background of incompetent ureterocystoneoastomosis and urinary leakage, when the pelvis was isolated, which was covered by the external iliac vein, the latter was injured with bleeding. This required conversion to open access, suturing of the iliac vein defect, further excision of the pelvis and anastomosis with the native ureter. In the post-operative period, the patient developed thrombosis of the iliac and femoral veins below the suturing area, and successful thrombolytic therapy was performed. Nephrostomy drain was removed before discharge and the stent was removed on an outpatient visit 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. Currently the condition of all patients is stable, the graft is functioning, and their diuresis is unchanged, serum creatinine ranges from 106 to 180 μmol/l.

Conclusion. The use of a healthy native ureter is an adequate method of replacement of extended ureteral strictures of the transplanted kidney.
Androgen receptor gene CAG-trinucleotide repeat length affects function of endothelium in men with hypogonadism and type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Khripun I. A. , Ismailov R. S. , Belousov I. I. , Ibishev Kh. S. , Kogan M. I.
Published: September 2024

Introduction. The influence of the length of the number of CAG repeats in the androgen receptor gene (nCAG AR) on endothelial dysfunction (EnD) is currently understudied.

Objective. The study aimed to evaluate the relationship between the nCAG AR and the dynamics of biochemical and ultrasound markers of EnD in men with functional hypogonadism and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) receiving testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).

Materials & methods. This study included 45 hypogonadal men with T2DM, receiving TRT for 1 year. Patients were assessed for carbohydrate and lipid metabolism parameters; total and free T; sex hormone-binding globulin; biochemical markers of EnD (NO, eNOS3, endothelin) and the nCAG AR; brachial artery (BA) vasoreactivity. Patients were divided into 3 groups: group I — 9 men with nCAG AR < 19; group II — 27 men with nCAG AR > 19 – 24; and group III — 9 men with nCAG AR >24.

Results. Patients with nCAG AR < 19 exhibited a 2-fold greater and faster increase in BA vasoreactivity on TRT compared to patients with nCAG AR 19-24 and 3-fold greater than men with nCAG AR >24 (p < 0.05). Patients with nCAG AR < 19 also demonstrated the most pronounced rise in NO and eNOS3 on TRT compared to men with nCAG AR > 24. Patients with nCAG AR < 19 experienced the most pronounced decreases in weight, waist circumference, and HbA1c on TRT compared to other patients (p < 0.05).

Conclusion. The nCAG AR length significantly affects the response to TRT in men with hypogonadism and T2DM. The most significant improvements are seen in patients with short nCAG AR.
Bladder cancer: issues requiring further research
Authors: Rozhkov I. A. , Bulychkin P. V.
Published: September 2024

The article discusses issues related to the treatment of patients diagnosed with locally advanced bladder cancer.
Transurethral balloon dilation safety and efficacy in patients with recurrent bladder neck contracture after transurethral interventions
Authors: Abbosov Sh. A. , Shomarufov A. B. , Aminova D. R.
Published: September 2024

Introduction. Currently, urologists are divided on which method is most effective for treating bladder neck contracture (BNC) after surgery: transurethral resection (TUR) or incision.

Objective. The study aimed to assess the balloon dilation safety and success in patients with recurrent bladder neck contracture (BNC) after endoscopic surgery for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Materials & Methods. This study involved 110 patients with recurrent BNC after transurethral interventions for BPH. All patients underwent TUR of the bladder neck and were divided into 2 groups: group A (n = 45) included men who, after TUR, additionally underwent repeated balloon dilation, while the control group B (n = 65) included men who were treated with alpha-blockers alone.

Results. In 9 months after TUR and 3 months after the fourth balloon dilation procedure in group A, the mean international prostate symptom score (IPSS) decreased from 20.1 ± 8.4 to 17.2 ± 7.4, and the IPSS-quality of life (QoL) was 4.2 ± 1.2 (p > 0.05). In group B, they were 21.7 ± 7.7 and 4.7 ± 1.1 (p > 0.05), respectively. Additionally, the mean flow rate in group A was 13.2 ± 5.4 ml/s, while in group B, it was 8.7 ± 4.9 ml/s (p < 0.05). There was a significant decrease in the post-void residual urine volume (PVR) from 76.2 ± 96.1 ml to 37.6 ± 55.1 ml in group A, whereas, in group B, it increased from 63.0 ± 36.9 ml to 79.4 ± 71.6 ml (p > 0.05). Also, 28.0% of patients of group B, and 13.3% of patients of group A underwent repeated TUR of the bladder neck in 9 months follow-up period (p < 0.05).

Conclusion. Balloon dilation procedure is a relatively safe less invasive procedure and can reduce the BNC recurrence rate and consequently the rate of repeated transurethral interventions.
Design and Implementation of an Opioid Scorecard for Hospital System–Wide Peer Comparison of Opioid Prescribing Habits: Observational Study
Authors: Slovis Benjamin Heritier , Huang Soonyip , McArthur Melanie , Martino Cara , Beers Tasia , Labella Meghan , Riggio Jeffrey M , Pribitkin Edmund deAzevedo
Published: September 2024

Background

Reductions in opioid prescribing by health care providers can lead to a decreased risk of opioid dependence in patients. Peer comparison has been demonstrated to impact providers’ prescribing habits, though its effect on opioid prescribing has predominantly been studied in the emergency department setting.

Objective

The purpose of this study is to describe the development of an enterprise-wide opioid scorecard, the architecture of its implementation, and plans for future research on its effects.

Methods

Using data generated by the author’s enterprise vendor–based electronic health record, the enterprise analytics software, and expertise from a dedicated group of informaticists, physicians, and analysts, the authors developed an opioid scorecard that was released on a quarterly basis via email to all opioid prescribers at our institution. These scorecards compare providers’ opioid prescribing habits on the basis of established metrics to those of their peers within their specialty throughout the enterprise.

Results

At the time of this study’s completion, 2034 providers have received at least 1 scorecard over a 5-quarter period ending in September 2021. Poisson regression demonstrated a 1.6% quarterly reduction in opioid prescribing, and chi-square analysis demonstrated pre-post reductions in the proportion of prescriptions longer than 5 days’ duration and a morphine equivalent daily dose of >50.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first peer comparison effort with high-quality evidence-based metrics of this scale published in the literature. By sharing this process for designing the metrics and the process of distribution, the authors hope to influence other health systems to attempt to curb the opioid pandemic through peer comparison. Future research examining the effects of this intervention could demonstrate significant reductions in opioid prescribing, thus potentially reducing the progression of individual patients to opioid use disorder and the associated increased risk of morbidity and mortality.
From Tweets to Streets: Observational Study on the Association Between Twitter Sentiment and Anti-Asian Hate Crimes in New York City from 2019 to 2022
Authors: Wei Hanxue , Hswen Yulin , Merchant Junaid S , Drew Laura B , Nguyen Quynh C , Yue Xiaohe , Mane Heran , Nguyen Thu T
Published: September 2024

Background

Anti-Asian hate crimes escalated during the COVID-19 pandemic; however, limited research has explored the association between social media sentiment and hate crimes toward Asian communities.

Objective

This study aims to investigate the relationship between Twitter (rebranded as X) sentiment data and the occurrence of anti-Asian hate crimes in New York City from 2019 to 2022, a period encompassing both before and during COVID-19 pandemic conditions.

Methods

We used a hate crime dataset from the New York City Police Department. This dataset included detailed information on the occurrence of anti-Asian hate crimes at the police precinct level from 2019 to 2022. We used Twitter’s application programming interface for Academic Research to collect a random 1% sample of publicly available Twitter data in New York State, including New York City, that included 1 or more of the selected Asian-related keywords and applied support vector machine to classify sentiment. We measured sentiment toward the Asian community using the rates of negative and positive sentiment expressed in tweets at the monthly level (N=48). We used negative binomial models to explore the associations between sentiment levels and the number of anti-Asian hate crimes in the same month. We further adjusted our models for confounders such as the unemployment rate and the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic. As sensitivity analyses, we used distributed lag models to capture 1- to 2-month lag times.

Results

A point increase of 1% in negative sentiment rate toward the Asian community in the same month was associated with a 24% increase (incidence rate ratio [IRR] 1.24; 95% CI 1.07-1.44; P=.005) in the number of anti-Asian hate crimes. The association was slightly attenuated after adjusting for unemployment and COVID-19 emergence (ie, after March 2020; P=.008). The positive sentiment toward Asian tweets with a 0-month lag was associated with a 12% decrease (IRR 0.88; 95% CI 0.79-0.97; P=.002) in expected anti-Asian hate crimes in the same month, but the relationship was no longer significant after adjusting for the unemployment rate and the emergence of COVID-19 pandemic (P=.11).

Conclusions

A higher negative sentiment level was associated with more hate crimes specifically targeting the Asian community in the same month. The findings highlight the importance of monitoring public sentiment to predict and potentially mitigate hate crimes against Asian individuals.
United Voices Group-Singing Intervention to Address Loneliness and Social Isolation Among Older People With HIV During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Intervention Adaption Study
Authors: Hill Miranda , Greene Meredith , Johnson Julene K , Tan Judy Y
Published: September 2024

Background

People living with HIV experience HIV stigma alongside a spectrum of aging-related health conditions that accelerate their vulnerability to the ill effects of loneliness and social isolation. Group-singing interventions are efficacious in improving psychosocial well-being among older people in the general population; however, the social curative effects of group singing have not been explored in relation to HIV stigma. By promoting group identification, bonding, and pride, group singing may reduce loneliness, social isolation, and other negative impacts of HIV stigma among older people living with HIV. Access to group-singing programs may be enhanced by technology.

Objective

While group singing has been extensively studied in older adults, group-singing interventions have not been adapted for older people living with HIV to target loneliness and social isolation in the context of HIV stigma. The objective of this study was to describe the systematic development of a group-singing intervention to reduce loneliness and social isolation among older people living with HIV.

Methods

In the San Francisco Bay Area between February 2019 and October 2019, we engaged older people living with HIV in a rigorous, 8-stage, community-engaged intervention adaptation process using the Assessment, Decision, Adaptation, Production, Topical Experts, Integration, Training, and Testing (ADAPT-ITT) framework. On the basis of a formative assessment of the needs and preferences of older people living with HIV, we selected an evidence-based group-singing intervention for older adults and systematically adapted the intervention components by administering them to a community advisory council (n=13).

Results

The result was United Voices, a 12-week hybrid (web-based and in-person) group-singing intervention for older people living with HIV. United Voices comprises 12 web-based (ie, via Zoom [Zoom Video Communications]) rehearsals, web-based and in-person drop-in helpdesk sessions, and a professionally produced final concert recording.

Conclusions

Through an iterative process and in consultation with stakeholders and topic experts, we refined and manualized United Voices and finalized the design of a pilot randomized controlled trial to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of the intervention protocol and procedures. The findings provide insights into the barriers and facilitators involved in culturally tailoring interventions for older people living with HIV, implementing intervention adaptations within web-based environments, and the promise of developing hybrid music-based interventions for older adults with HIV.
Characteristics of and Factors Associated With Partner Service Uptake Cascade Among People With Newly Reported HIV/AIDS Diagnoses in Southeastern China in 2022: Cross-Sectional Survey (Preprint)
Authors: Jiang Jun , Chen Lin , Cheng Wei , Chen Wanjun , Yang Jiezhe , Xu Yun , Zhou Xin , Pan Xiaohong , Chai Chengliang
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

HIV notification and testing integrated into partner service (PS) practices among HIV-positive individuals have been proven to be an efficient approach for case finding, although it remains a weak link in China. Although nonmarital sexual activities accounted for a large proportion of newly diagnosed HIV-positive cases in China, little is known about PS uptake and associated factors within nonmarital partnerships.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to describe HIV PS utilization and its associated factors among HIV-positive individuals with nonmarital sexual partners.

METHODS

We recruited newly diagnosed HIV-positive individuals who had nonmarital sexual partners in 2022 in Zhejiang Province and offered them PS. We described the PS uptake cascade within sexual partner categories and analyzed the associated factors with 3 primary outcomes from the participants’ perspective: nonmarital partner enumeration, HIV testing, and HIV positivity.

RESULTS

In this study, 3509 HIV-positive individuals were recruited as participants, and they enumerated 2507 nonmarital sex partners (2507/14,556, 17.2% of all nonmarital sex partners) with contact information. Among these, 43.1% (1090/2507) underwent an HIV test, with an HIV-positive rate of 28.3% (309/1090). Heterosexual commercial partners were the least likely of being enumerated (441/4292, 10.3%) and had the highest HIV-positive rate (40/107, 37.4%). At the participant level, 48.1% (1688/3509) of the participants enumerated at least one nonmarital sex partner with contact information, 52.7% (890/1688) had a sex partner tested for HIV, and 31% (276/890) had at least one nonmarital sex partner who tested positive. Multivariate analysis indicated that gender and transmission route were associated with both nonmarital sex partner enumeration and HIV testing. Age and occupation were associated with nonmarital sex partner enumeration and HIV positivity. Compared with participants who had no regular nonmarital sex partner, those who had a regular nonmarital sex partner were more likely to enumerate nonmarital sex partners (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 3.017, 95% CI 2.560-3.554), have them get tested for HIV (aOR 1.725, 95% CI 1.403-2.122), and have an HIV-positive nonmarital sex partner (aOR 1.962, 95% CI 1.454-2.647).

CONCLUSIONS

The percentage of partner enumeration was low, and HIV testing rate was moderate among nonmarital partnerships of HIV-positive individuals. More efforts should be made to improve PS practices among HIV-positive individuals and address the gap in partner enumeration, especially for heterosexual commercial nonmarital partnerships. Additionally, enhancing PS operational skills among health care personnel could increase the overall efficiency of PS uptake in China.
Evaluating the Efficiency of Smart Glasses in Reducing Patient Care Time in Emergency Medicine: Evidence from the Hangzhou Asian Games (Preprint)
Authors: Jiang Xinwei , Xia Bangbo , Ansari Mohammad Mostafa , Jiang Huiquan , Qi Jianjiang , Zhang Zhongheng , Dai Sheng , Zheng Pingping , He Yang , Liu Ning , Chen Pengpeng , Luo Ronghua , Qin Xuchang , Miao Yansong , DAI Junru , Zhou Xiaoyu , Wang Changliang , Chen Hui , Xu Wenbin , Wu Tao , Shi Qiang , Chen Zhonghua , Chen Zhonghua , Zhou Liping , Zhang Hao , Xie Yun , Zhang Quan , Zhou Bifa , Pan Xiaohong , Chen Zixi , Zhen Libo , Sun Yaqing , Lu Zelin , Loh Yihao , Sayer Shameera , Mochtar Jennifer , Wongpraewit Pannika , Hong Yucai , Wang Yifan
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

Challenges in emergency medicine include overcrowding, insufficient emergency care resources and extended Emergency Department (ED) waiting times. These issues contribute to delays in treatment and unfavorable outcomes. Particularly worsened during the Covid-19 pandemic and events with large crowds. The integration of augmented reality (AR) smart glasses could potentially enhance patient care in the ED.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the duration of patient care in ED between the use and non-use of Augmented reality (AR) smart glasses during The 19th Asian Games and 4th Asian Para Games Hangzhou 2022 (HAG2022).

METHODS

This retrospective study conducted between September 13, 2023, and October 28, 2023, during HAG2022. The data gathered from AR smart glasses at the HAG2022 village and electronic health records at Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, China. The study included two groups: teleconsultation by AR telemedicine system (ARTS) group and no teleconsultation by AR telemedicine system (non-ARTS) groups. The main data assessed were pre-preparation time (PPT) and consult response time (CRT) in ED.

RESULTS

During the research period, 80 patients were divided into two cohorts: the ARTS cohort (n=10) and the non-ARTS cohort (n=70). Gender and age demographics showed no significant differences between the cohorts. The ARTS cohort had a significantly lower average PPT of 23.0 minutes compared to the non-ARTS cohort's 40.3 minutes (P<.001). Additionally, CRT in the ARTS cohort was significantly lower at 15.6 minutes compared to the non-ARTS cohort's 164.8 minutes (P=.03). The outcomes suggest that smart glasses are effective in decreasing PPT and CRT.

CONCLUSIONS

Augmented reality smart glasses in the EDs can improve patient admissions efficiency and care time in ED. More research is needed to confirm their effectiveness in emergency medicine.

CLINICALTRIAL

approval no.srrsheca2023-0597
Patient Awareness, Understanding, and Trust in AI (Preprint)
Authors: Gualtieri Lisa , Sutherland Yolanda
Published: September 2024

UNSTRUCTURED

With artificial intelligence (AI) playing an increasingly prominent role in healthcare, patients are arguably the most impacted. For patients to be empowered in the many ways in which AI impacts their care, rather than remaining passive recipients, they need awareness, understanding, and trust in AI. We evaluate the current state of AI in healthcare from the all-important patient perspective, and consider future directions supporting a more equitable future with enhanced care for the wide variety of patient needs.
El ejercicio de la transparencia en Guanajuato y Jalisco en los marcos de la gobernanza democrática
Authors: Soto Guerrero Héctor Eduardo , Uvalle Berrones Ricardo
Published: September 2024

En este artículo se examina y explica la política pública de transparencia en Guanajuato y Jalisco como ejemplos de innovación en la construcción de la gobernanza en sistemas democráticos contemporáneos. El objetivo principal es analizar el cumplimiento de la política de transparencia por parte de los poderes en ambos estados y proponer mejoras en el diseño de mecanismos de monitoreo y vigilancia para alcanzar una mayor calidad y colaboración social en el ejercicio de la transparencia. Se concluye que en ambos estados existe un cumplimiento de transparencia activa por parte de los poderes. Además, el proceso de construcción de la transparencia basada en la colaboración social fomenta una relación de correspondencia entre gobiernos y ciudadanos. Las principales limitaciones al cumplimiento de la transparencia se encuentran en la manera en que los poderes asumen la responsabilidad de proporcionar información pública, ya que no alcanzan un nivel de transparencia proactiva que justifique el uso de un lenguaje tan accesible como sea posible.
Geopolítica: genealogía y horizonte de transformación
Authors: Saracho López Federico José
Published: September 2024

El artículo explora la transformación de la geopolítica y su papel en las ciencias sociales contemporáneas. Crítica el modelo de “geopolítica clásica” o imperialista, que se centra solamente en el análisis malogrado de la escala mundial, presentando el mundo como un “tablero de juego” distorsionado. Se hace un balance de la propuesta de Yves Lacoste y el grupo Hérodote, quienes desafían la despolitización de la geografía y promueven a la geopolítica no como campo de conocimiento sino como método para el estudio de las rivalidades de poder sobre territorios y poblaciones. Se reflexiona en torno a la geopolítica crítica anglosajona, cuya propuesta deconstruye narrativas dominantes de la geopolítica imperialista, y presenta avances importantes en la denuncia del estatocentrismo, y las formas de dominación. Igualmente, se enfoca el análisis en las representaciones de la escala mundial sin buscar una crítica a las bases materiales de la reproducción sistémica. Por último, avanza en la propuesta de una geopolítica negativa que denuncia las bases epistemológicas del modelo clásico, enfocándose en las dimensiones materiales y estructurales de los procesos sociales en el marco del sistema-mundo. Esta perspectiva resalta la importancia de las interacciones entre diferentes escalas —global, regional, local y corporal— en la producción de espacios y cuerpos en el sistema capitalista, buscando transformar la comprensión y práctica de la geopolítica.