bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interventions to reduce social isolation and loneliness among minority ethnic populations in OECD countries: A scoping review
Authors: Nwofe Emmanuel Sunday , Akhtar Amirah , Parveen Sahdia , Windle Karen
Published: December 2024

Background

Social isolation and loneliness (SIL) are complex issues that impact mental and physical wellbeing and are significant public health concerns. People from minority ethnic backgrounds living in Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) member states may be particularly vulnerable to experiencing SIL. This is due to various challenges associated with life in foreign countries, including cultural differences, settlement issues, low incomes, and discrimination. While many interventions have been developed to address SIL in the general population, there is little information about interventions designed for minority ethnic populations in OECD countries. Our study aimed to 1) Investigate existing interventions for minority ethnic communities in OECD countries; 2) Assess how these interventions are conceptualised to increase awareness of SIL risks on health factors.3) Explore culturally sensitive approaches in these interventions, and 4) Identify the most effective interventions in reducing SIL in minority ethnic populations.

Methods and findings

We searched Medline, APA PsycINFO, Psychology and Behavioural Sciences Collection, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Scopus from their inception to September 19th, 2023, and registered the scoping review at https://osf.io/fnrvc. Our search yielded 10,479 results, of which 12 studies were included: five RCTs, six non-randomized quasi-experimental studies, and one qualitative study. Interventions were grouped into four main categories: social facilitation, befriending, leisure and skills development, and health education programmes. While only a few interventions targeted minority ethnic populations specifically, our findings highlight the potential of culturally sensitive interventions in reducing social isolation and loneliness among minority ethnic communities in OECD countries. However, given the type and extent of evidence, it is still unclear which interventions are superior in reducing SIL in minority ethnic populations in OECD countries. Further research is necessary to understand which activities may be most effective for which communities. Such interventions should be designed and tailored to account for the broader risk implications of SIL to raise awareness of the population’s peculiar health risk profile.

Discussion

Interventions designed to address SIL among minority ethnic groups in OECD member states are scarce and have not been designed to account for the health risks profile of the population. Integrated research designs involving groups linked with minority ethnic populations are needed to link individual, community, and societal factors alongside population risk profiles for increased recognition of SIL as an important health factor.
Eat a little and save a little: A qualitative exploration of acceptability of a potential savings intervention to reduce HIV risk among female sex workers in Western Kenya
Authors: Otticha Sophie , Moraa Jane , Onyango Jacob , Okumu Olivia , Ochillo Marylyn , Ayallo Judith , Owiti Phillip , Ouma Lillian , Ounda Nancy , Odwar Tobias , Ogot Shantana Carol , Agot Kawango
Published: December 2024

Background

The burden of HIV among female sex workers (FSWs) remains higher in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), with an estimated prevalence of 36.9%. In Kenya, HIV prevalence among FSWs is 29.3% compared to 6.6% among adult women in the general population. Economic disempowerment is a significant driver of HIV among FSWs, specifically manifested in engagement in higher-paying, high risk sex. Saving interventions to improve financial security have the potential to reduce HIV risk among FSWs.

Methods

We conducted 24 focus group discussions (FGD) with each session involving 6–10 respondents. The FGD guide explored saving history and income sources, spending and loan-taking practices as factors associated with saving. Thematic analysis identified themes related to financial burden, loaning, saving and spending, sources of income, HIV risk behaviors in the context of sex work, and acceptability of the proposed saving intervention to reduce HIV risk.

Results

We conducted 24 FGDs with 221 respondents, of whom 19.9% were married and 85.4% reported being heads of households. We identified the following key themes, that FSWs were: open to participating in a saving intervention being proposed to reduce their HIV risk; financially insecure, thus engaging in sexual practices that increase their HIV risk; living beyond their means leading to further financial insecurity; and desiring an intervention that equips them with knowledge and skills on how to balance earning and spending in order to save and how to take and repay loans without increasing their HIV risk.

Conclusion

FSWs in western Kenya were receptive to the proposed savings intervention, believing that it would increase their financial stability and reduce the need to engage in risky sex when faced with emergency situations that require immediate cash.
Deprescribing attitudes and predictors among older adults attending geriatric clinics in Kuwait
Authors: Alshammari Hesah , Al-Saeed Eman , Ahmed Zamzam , Aslanpour Zoe
Published: December 2024

Deprescribing is defined as the reduction of medications to improve patient care. For effective deprescribing regular evaluation of medication adjustment regimens is required as it is documented to be an effective method to reduce polypharmacy and potentially inappropriate medications while improving patient well-being. Several factors, including patient-related aspects, influence the deprescribing process. Among these factors, patient willingness plays a pivotal role, making it essential to better understand their perspectives and attitudes towards medication use and deprescribing to successfully implement and maintain a deprescribing approach. We investigated the attitudes of older patients attending geriatric clinics in Kuwait toward deprescribing and identified predictors that influence their willingness to undergo this process. We enrolled patients aged ≥65 years who were attending geriatric clinics in primary care settings in Kuwait. These participants completed the revised Arabic version of the Patients’ Attitudes Towards Deprescribing (rPATD) questionnaire. The questionnaire was designed to assess the participants’ willingness to participate actively in medication decision-making and their inclination toward discontinuing certain medicines. Descriptive statistics was applied to gain insight into the characteristics of the participants and their responses to the rPATD questionnaire. Binary logistic regression identified predictors influencing the desire to deprescribe among participants. The study included 535 participants, out of which 388 were analyzed, with 233 (43.6%) being women. The majority, 77% (n = 412), were aged between 65 and 74 years. Out of the total, 205 patients (38.4%) had one to two medical conditions and were prescribed between one and five medications. The participants showed a high willingness to deprescribe, and this willingness was inversely associated with sex (p = 0.15), age (p = 0.15), and polypharmacy (p = 0.044). Many older patients visiting geriatric clinics in primary care settings in Kuwait were receptive to the concept of deprescribing medications, particularly if advised by their doctor. Nevertheless, it was observed that male patients, individuals on more than 5 medications, and older age groups showed lower willingness to deprescribe.
Spherical hard carbon/graphite anode for high performance lithium ion batteries
Authors: Liao Xingqun , Hu Dalin , Yu Lijuan , Li Bin , Xiao Feng , Wang Shanxing
Published: December 2024

The issue of long charging time for electric vehicles has been a matter of serious concern, and the problem is mainly stemmed from the graphite anode. The slow kinetics of pure graphite can lead to the formation of the lithium metal during fast charging, which triggers cycle degradation and safety issues of electric vehicles. In order to ameliorate the fast charging issue, a spherical hard carbon/graphite porous electrode is devised. Based on this, the discharge capacity ratio at 3C shows an improvement of about 40% at 25°C and at 1C shows an improvement of about 18% at 0°C. Additionally, the 300-cycle capacity retentions exhibit increases of 12% and 14% at temperature of 25°C and 50°C, respectively. Generally, the analysis shows that the spherical hard carbon/graphite porous electrode has more uniform porous structure, shorter transport path, less nano-scale powder and a certain voltage buffer ability compared to the pure graphite powder system, which enhance the ion transport kinetics, and reduce the side reactions under the high temperature, so as to effectively improve the fast charging performance and cycle life of the LIBs. It is also proved that the kinetics improvement is not only attributed to the high kinetics inherited from the instinct of hard carbon, but also the porous electrode structures constructed by the two-size powder system of graphite and hard carbon.
Perceptions, barriers, and facilitators of maternal health service utilization in southern Ethiopia: A qualitative exploration of community members’ and health care providers’ views
Authors: Yoseph Amanuel , Teklesilasie Wondwosen , Guillen-Grima Francisco , Astatkie Ayalew
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Maternal health service (MHS) use is a key strategy to reduce maternal mortality. However, evidence is scarce in designing efficient intervention strategies in Ethiopia. Thus, we aimed to explore community members and healthcare providers’ perceptions of MHS and barriers and facilitators of MHS use in southern Ethiopia.

Methods

A phenomenological qualitative study was conducted in the month of November, 2022, in the northern zone of the Sidama region. There were sixteen in-depth interviews, nine focus group discussions, and 15 key informant interviews with 112 study participants. A maximum variance sampling method was used to select study participants. Data coding and analysis were done using MAXQDA 2020 software and presented in narratives.

Results

Communities have positive perceptions and good practices of skilled antenatal care (ANC) and health facility delivery (HFD) but lack awareness of postnatal care (PNC) services and schedules. Some have experienced negative interactions with health care providers, health facilities, and ambulance drivers. The main identified barriers to ANC use were lack of awareness of ANC benefits, distance from a health facility, costs associated with ANC use, long waiting time, lack of road access, and women being busy with different household chores. Distance from health facilities, costs associated with HFD use, unpredicted labor, lack of an ANC visit, lack of a birth preparedness plan, and non-dignified care were the main barriers to HFD. The major barriers to PNC use were home delivery, lack of awareness of PNC service and schedule, and socio-cultural beliefs. The main identified facilitators of MHS use were previous experience and fear of obstetric complications, health extension workers and women’s development teams, and pregnant women’s forums.

Conclusions

Rural women still encounter challenges when using MHS, even though communities have positive perceptions and good practices of skilled MHS. Bad experiences mothers faced in health facilities, challenges associated with the costs of MHS use, poor awareness of service, and unpredictable labor continued to be fundamental barriers to MHS use. Intervention approaches should consider inter-sectoral collaboration to address community and health facility barriers. The programs must emphasize the transportation arrangements during unpredictable labor and the needs of poor mothers and women with poor awareness of MHS at the community level.
Healthcare outcomes and special education eligibility in children with congenital CMV
Authors: Rochat Ryan , Goodman Elizabeth , Miller Jerry , Wang Wei , Demmler-Harrison Gail J.
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Congenital cytomegalovirus disease (cCMV) can have significant sensory and neurodevelopmental sequelae throughout childhood. Many of these sequalae are consistent with special education eligibility, but the special education needs of affected children have not been systematically studied.

Methods

Retrospective chart reviews from two cohorts of cCMV children receiving care in a large tertiary care children’s hospital were included in this study: a historical research cohort (N = 186, 41% symptomatic at birth) and a contemporary clinical cohort of cCMV patients (N = 112, 68% symptomatic at birth). SNOMED-CT was used to identify ICD-10 codes describing special education-qualifying health outcomes fitting the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) criteria. ICD-10 codes were retrospectively applied to the historical research cohort through manual chart review, whereas the ICD-10 billing codes were extracted from the electronic medical record for all encounters in the contemporary cohort.

Results

Of the 56 unique special education-qualifying ICD-10 codes we identified as pertinent to the IDEA, at least one was noted in 39% of those asymptomatic at birth (AcCMV) as compared to 94% of the patients symptomatic at birth (ScCMV). In the contemporary clinical cohort, at least one of these codes was noted in 67% of the AcCMV patients as compared to 95% for ScCMV patients. 61% of patients in the historical and 86% in the contemporary cohort had at least one special education-qualifying ICD-10 code. Developmental, mobility, physical therapy and hearing-related health outcomes were common in both ScCMV and AcCMV patients.

Conclusions

Health outcomes qualifying for special educational services occur commonly in children with cCMV, including those who are classified as asymptomatic at birth. The emergence of qualifying conditions beyond the neonatal period among these children suggests that continued surveillance of this vulnerable population throughout early childhood may facilitate the timely identification of health outcomes requiring special educational services.
A novel technique using integral transforms and residual functions for nonlinear partial fractional differential equations involving Caputo derivatives
Authors: Khan Zareen A. , Riaz Muhammad Bilal , Liaqat Muhammad Imran , Akgül Ali
Published: December 2024

Fractional nonlinear partial differential equations are used in many scientific fields to model various processes, although most of these equations lack closed-form solutions. For this reason, methods for approximating solutions that occasionally yield closed-form solutions are crucial for solving these equations. This study introduces a novel technique that combines the residual function and a modified fractional power series with the Elzaki transform to solve various nonlinear problems within the Caputo derivative framework. The accuracy and effectiveness of our approach are validated through analyses of absolute, relative, and residual errors. We utilize the limit principle at zero to identify the coefficients of the series solution terms, while other methods, including variational iteration, homotopy perturbation, and Adomian, depend on integration. In contrast, the residual power series method uses differentiation, and both approaches encounter difficulties in fractional contexts. Furthermore, the effectiveness of our approach in addressing nonlinear problems without relying on Adomian and He polynomials enhances its superiority over various approximate series solution techniques.
Organ pedalboard as a rehabilitation tool: A qualitative exploratory study of healthcare providers’ perceptions and recommendations
Authors: Kan Mandy M. P. , Kwok Wai Hang , Fan Eric C. , Al Zoubi Fadi M.
Published: December 2024

Objective

This qualitative study explored healthcare providers’ perceptions and attitudes regarding the use of organ pedalboards as a rehabilitation tool, particularly for lower extremity conditions. The study also sought to identify the perceived barriers and facilitators to adopting organ pedalboards within rehabilitation settings, as well as gather healthcare providers’ recommendations for integrating this tool into clinical practice.

Method

Healthcare providers, including physiotherapists, occupational therapists, music therapists, and sports therapists, were recruited for focus group interviews using purposive and snowball sampling. At the outset of the interview, participants watched an organist playing musical notes on a pedalboard and had the opportunity to try on the pedalboard. A researcher then modulated the group discussion with the organist and asked questions following a semi-structured interview guide. The guided questions concern the perceptions of using organ pedal training for patients, as well as participants’ attitudes and perceived barriers towards it. Verbatim transcription and content analysis were performed on qualitative data.

Findings

Seventeen healthcare providers were interviewed in four focus groups. Healthcare providers perceive music as a motivator in rehabilitation, aiding in natural movement through rhythm and beats. Music intervention, particularly training on the pedalboard, is seen as beneficial for lower extremity rehabilitation, improving range of motion, balance, and coordination. It also offers cognitive benefits and enhances patient engagement and psychosocial well-being. Its safety concerns were addressed and discussed.

Conclusion

Our study is the first to explore the feasibility of using a pedalboard as a rehabilitation tool. Healthcare providers identify the circumstances and potential therapeutic benefits of the use of organ pedal training in the management of lower extremity problems. This will assist in the development of a lower extremity training protocol that can accommodate all the physiological hip, knee, ankle, and foot movements in the future.
Comparative transcriptome analysis in two contrasting genotypes for Sclerotinia sclerotiorum resistance in sunflower
Authors: Zhao Mingzhu , Yi Bing , Liu Xiaohong , Wang Dexing , Song Dianxiu , Sun Enyu , Cui Liangji , Liu Jingang , Feng Liangshan
Published: December 2024

Sclerotinia sclerotiorum as a necrotrophic fungus causes the devastating diseases in many important oilseed crops worldwide. The preferred strategy for controlling S. sclerotiorum is to develop resistant varieties, but the molecular mechanisms underlying S. sclerotiorum resistance remain poorly defined in sunflower (Helianthus annuus). Here, a comparative transcriptomic analysis was performed in leaves of two contrasting sunflower genotypes, disease susceptible (DS) B728 and disease resistant (DR) C6 after S. sclerotiorum inoculation. At 24 h post-inoculation, the DR genotype exhibited no visible growth of the hyphae as well as greater activity of superoxide dismutase activity (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and monodehydroascorbate reductase (MDAR) than DS genotype. A total of 10151 and 7439 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were detected in DS and DR genotypes, respectively. Most of DEGs were enriched in cell wall organisation, protein kinase activity, hormone, transcription factor activities, redox homeostasis, immune response, and secondary metabolism. Differential expression of genes involved in expansins, pectate lyase activities, ethylene biosynthesis and signaling and antioxidant activity after S. sclerotiorum infection could potentially be responsible for the differential resistance among two genotypes. In summary, these finding provide additional insights into the potential molecular mechanisms of S. sclerotiorum’s defense response and facilitate the breeding of Sclerotinia-resistant sunflower varieties.
A curved compliant spinal bone anchor to enhance fixation strength
Authors: de Kater Esther P. , Jager David J. , Breedveld Paul , Sakes Aimée
Published: December 2024

Pedicle screws have long been established as the gold standard for spinal bone fixation. However, their fixation strength can be compromised in cases of low bone density, particularly in osteoporotic bone, due to the reliance on a micro-shape lock between the screw thread and the surrounding bone. To address this challenge, we propose augmenting conventional pedicles screws with a curved compliant anchor. This anchor integrates a curved super-elastic nitinol rod that is advanced through a canulated pedicle screw, forming a macro-shape lock within the vertebral body to aid the fixation strength. Both placement safety and fixation strength of this novel spinal bone anchor were validated on tissue phantoms (Sawbones). The radius of the curved compliant anchor’s path demonstrates high precision while exhibiting strong dependence on the bone density in which the anchor is placed. When the curved compliant anchor is combined with a conventional pedicle screw, the mean maximum pull-out force elevated to 290 N, marking a 14% enhancement in pull-out resistance compared to using pedicle screw alone. Further augmentation with multiple curved compliant anchors holds promise for even greater fixation. The application of a curved compliant spinal bone anchor offers a promising means of increasing the fixation strength of pedicles screws, which is especially relevant in challenging clinical scenarios such a patient suffering from osteoporosis.
Use of vasopressors in patients with acute kidney injury on continuous kidney replacement therapy
Authors: Ramesh Ambika , Doddi Akshith , Abbasi Aisha , Al-Mamun Mohammad A. , Sakhuja Ankit , Shawwa Khaled
Published: December 2024

Objective

To investigate whether the use of a specific vasopressor was associated with increased mortality or adverse outcomes in patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) receiving continuous kidney replacement therapy (CKRT).

Methods

Patients with AKI who underwent CKRT between 1/1/2012-1/1/2021 at a tertiary academic hospital were included. Cox proportional hazard model was used to assess the relationship between time-dependent vasopressor dose and in-hospital mortality.

Results

There were 641 patients with AKI that required CKRT. In-hospital mortality occurred in 318 (49.6%) patients. Those who died were older (63 vs 57 years), had higher SOFA score (10.6 vs 9) and lactate (6 vs 3.3 mmol/L). In multivariable model, increasing doses of norepinephrine [HR 4.4 (95% CI: 2.3–7, p<0.001)] per 0.02 mcg/min/kg and vasopressin [HR 2.6 (95% CI: 1.9–3.2, p = 0.01)] per 0.02 unit/min during CKRT were associated with in-hospital mortality. The model was adjusted for vasopressor doses and fluid balance, SOFA score, lactate and other markers of severity of illness. Baseline vasopressor doses were not associated with mortality. Most vasopressors were associated with positive daily fluid balance. Among survivors at day 30, mean values of vasopressors were not associated with persistent kidney dysfunction.

Conclusion

The associations between norepinephrine and vasopressin with in-hospital mortality could be related to their common use in this cohort.
Analysis of contemporary value and influence of intangible cultural heritage based on online review mining
Authors: Xu Qiaoyun , Xu Yan , Ma Chao
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The development of new media has enabled intangible cultural heritage to be disseminated through online platforms and attracted the attention of many contemporary young people. Classification and discussion on the value of intangible cultural heritage is an important way to help the inheritance and dissemination.

Design/Methodology/Approach

Real online reviews were collected based on the Bilibili website as the research data source. A text-based BiGRU-Attention model was conducted to achieve value recognition and classification, and keyword statistics and topic analysis were performed for topic discussion among comments.

Findings

Using the BiGRU-Attention model to classify intangible cultural heritage’s contemporary values has a performance with precision, recall, and F1 score of more than 77%, the category of CVP (Cultural Value Perception) has the best classification performance. Through the topic analysis of comments and keywords, the cultural value of intangible cultural heritage is its core connotation, social value is the main purpose, and economic value is the power source.

Originality

A BiGRU-Attention model based on BERT word embedding is proposed to achieve a text contemporary value perception recognition method based on user-generated content.
Sodium butyrate is incorporated into central metabolism in fly head while inducing oxygen consumption increase
Authors: Müller-Eigner Annika , Gille Benedikt , Dethloff Frederik , Meng Chen , Ludwig Christina , Heiker John T. , Giavalisco Patrick , Peleg Shahaf
Published: December 2024

Butyrate has been proposed as a drug therapy by acting as a lysine deacetylase (KDAC) inhibitor and elevating protein acetylation, in particular on histones. Nonetheless, recent studies suggest that tissues such as the gut can utilize butyrate as a metabolite. We have previously shown that the addition of butyrate induces a rapid increase of oxygen consumption in whole Drosophila melanogaster heads. Here we show that while head oxygen consumption is increased by the addition of butyrate, no apparent changes are observed on the proteome and acetylome. Instead, we show that butyrate is metabolized and incorporated into the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. Collectively our data supports the notion that the therapeutic benefits of acute butyrate treatment may be also mediated by improving metabolic rates, rather than solely targeting the epigenome or acetylome.
The relationship between physical activity and sleep quality among college students: The chain-mediating effects of self-control and mobile phone addiction
Authors: Yin Zhonggen , Yang Chengbo , Liu Tong , Yu Jialiang , Yu Xiaomei , Huang Shuting , Zhang Yanhong
Published: December 2024

The psychological and physiological health of undergraduates was correlated with the sleep quality, which can be improved through increasing physical activity. However, the correlations between physical activity and sleep quality are subject to various factors. In this study, we investigated the effects of self-control and mobile phone addiction on the correlations between physical activity on undergraduates’ sleep quality at the psychological and behavioral levels. Data was collected through a survey with a convenient sample of 2,274 students in China. The study utilized scales of physical activity, sleep quality, self-control, and mobile phone addiction to quantitatively evaluate the impact of physical activity on the sleep quality of undergraduates. The correlations were analyzed using SPSS 26.0, including descriptive statistics, confidence tests, common method bias tests, correlation analysis, and hypothesis tests. Pearson correlation analysis shows that physical activity was significantly correlated with sleep quality (r = -0.541, p < 0.001), and that physical activity and sleep quality were significantly correlated with self-control and mobile phone addiction. Regression analysis shows that physical activity had a significant positive regression effect on self-control (standardized regression coefficient β = 0.234, p < 0.001), a significant negative regression effect on mobile phone addiction (β = –0.286, p < 0.001), and a significant negative regression effect on sleep quality (β = –0.351, p < 0.001). Further, a chain mediation model of physical activity → self-control → mobile phone addiction → sleep quality was proposed. The findings provide basic data for college students to promote physical activity and improve sleep quality.
Plasma and serum concentrations of VEGF-A121, but not of VEGF-A165, increase post-bevacizumab administration
Authors: Okawa Masashi , Yamakuchi Munekazu , Bibek Aryal , Takenouchi Kazunori , Maywar Drew N. , Yamada Shingo , Inoue Keiichi , Higurashi Kazuhiko , Nakazawa Junichi , Kawahira Masahiro , Kodama Tomoko , Tanoue Kiyonori , Oyama Yoko , Higashi Sadayuki , Fujisaki Chieko , Hashinokuchi Hirohito , Tabaru Akito , Kanda Hideaki , Tachioka Shuji , Imoto Yutaka , Hashiguchi Teruto , Soga Yoshiharu
Published: December 2024

Background

VEGF-A concentrations were measured in the blood of bevacizumab-treated cancer patients in previous studies, but a consensus has not formed that would develop VEGF-A into a clinical biomarker. Recently, methods to strictly distinguish between the VEGF-A isoforms have been developed but have not yet been applied to cancer patients undergoing bevacizumab treatment.

Methods

An ELISA that strictly distinguishes between VEGF-A121 and VEGF-A165—the major isoforms of VEGF-A—and a commercially available ELISA for VEGF-A are used to determine the concentration of VEGF-A121, VEGF-A165, and VEGF-A in the blood of 12 patients with advanced colorectal cancer receiving bevacizumab therapy.

Results

The serum and plasma concentrations of VEGF-A121 increased substantially post-bevacizumab administration; the median increase in serum was 860.8 pg/mL, 95% confidence interval (CI) [468.5, 1128.9], p = 0.0024, and in plasma was 808.6 pg/mL, 95% CI [748.7, 874.0], p = 0.00049. In stark contrast, VEGF-A165 after bevacizumab administration decreased in serum by a medium change of –73.8 pg/mL, 95% CI [–149.4, –10.2], p = 0.0034, with 83.3% of the post-bevacizumab concentrations falling below the high-accuracy threshold of 38 pg/mL; in plasma, all pre and post VEGF-A165 concentrations fell below this threshold. Concentrations of VEGF-A121 and VEGF-A165 in platelets did not change to a statistically significant degree. Adding recombinant VEGF-A121 (and -A165) or bevacizumab to plasma in patients post-bevacizumab administration increased or decreased, respectively, VEGF-A121 and VEGF-A165 levels. The increase in VEGF-A121 in plasma and serum after bevacizumab administration may be due to the dissociation of the complex of tumor-derived VEGF-A121 and bevacizumab when it moves from the stroma into the blood.

Conclusions

The VEGF-A121 isoform has been uniquely demonstrated as a clear marker of bevacizumab therapy in both plasma and serum, motivating further research on pursuing these isoforms as biomarkers in cancer care.
Coloration enhancement in Procambarus clarkii crayfish through dietary supplementation of phycocyanin extracted from Arthrospira platensis BUUC1503
Authors: Yodngam Pisan , Hiransuchalert Rachanimuk
Published: December 2024

Background and Aim: The effects of phycocyanin (PC) on pigmentation have been extensively studied in fish; however, its specific impact on crustaceans, particularly Procambarus clarkii, remains underexplored. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of PCs extracted from Arthrospira platensis BUUC1503 on the color enhancement of P. clarkii crayfish when added to food pellets.

Materials and Methods: The following five dietary treatments were prepared: a control (without PC) and four experimental diets with PC supplementation at concentrations of 10, 50, 100, and 500 mg/kg. The stability of the pellets in water was ensured for 180 min. P. clarkii crayfish were fed these diets at 5% of their body weight daily for 10 weeks. Body weight and total length were measured. Color changes in P. clarkii were also assessed. After the experiments, we treated the samples according to Animal Welfare Technical Information No.16.8 Correct euthanasia of decapods.

Results: Although PC supplementation did not significantly affect the yellowness (b* value) of P. clarkii, it significantly enhanced the redness (a* value) and lightness (L* value) pigmentation compared with the control. At week 10, crayfish fed a diet containing 100 mg/kg PC exhibited the highest L* value (36.51 ± 1.59) (p < 0.001). Diet with 500 mg/kg PCs had the highest a* value (26.96 ± 0.64) (p < 0.001). Crayfish fed 50, 100, or 500 mg/kg PC had the highest survival rate (100%). PCs appear to positively affect weight gain in P. clarkii crayfish during weeks 8, 9, and 10 (p = 0.013, 0.003, and 0.034, respectively). However, statistical analysis revealed no significant differences in length among the dietary treatments.

Conclusion: PCs effectively weight-gain and enhance red pigment deposition in the epidermal layer of P. clarkii. Further investigation is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

Keywords: diet supplementation, phycocyanin, pigmentation enhancement, Procambarus clarkii.
“QUANTO SOFRIMENTO PARA QUE OS AVANÇOS FOSSEM FEITOS”: GÊNERO E CIÊNCIA NAS CONVERSAÇÕES SOBRE O FILME RADIOACTIVE
Authors: Massarani Luisa , Leal Tatiane , Lopes Amanda Rezende
Published: December 2024

Neste artigo, investigamos as percepções públicas acerca do filme Radioactive, baseado na trajetória da cientista Marie Skłodowska-Curie. Por meio da análise de conteúdo, examinamos as conversações sobre a obra na rede social Twitter, identificando três principais aspectos: cinematográficos, científicos e de gênero. Esses eixos apareceram de maneira proporcional e interligada, reforçando o potencial do longa-metragem para promover a divulgação científica e o debate das problemáticas sociais que atravessam a ciência. Destacou-se, também, a exaltação de Marie Curie enquanto mulher cientista, demonstrando que as desigualdades de gênero no campo foram discutidas não somente atreladas a seu tempo histórico, mas ao contemporâneo.
QUALIDADE DO AR E DESIGUALDADE SOCIAL NA CIDADE DO RECIFE – PERNAMBUCO - BRASIL
Authors: Nascimento Bandeira Elyenay Mikaelle , Menezes da Silva Carlos Eduardo , Da Silva Pessoa Max Antônio , De Lima e Silva Michele , Da Silva Avelino dos Santos Rosane , Vidal de Freitas Maria Clara , Vasconcelos Bezerra Anselmo César
Published: December 2024

A poluição atmosférica é um dos principais problemas ambientais globais. Os danos à saúde e ao ambiente afetam a imensa maioria das regiões e população no planeta. Porém ainda existe uma grande lacuna em termos de monitoramento em especial em regiões mais pobres do planeta. Este trabalho visou contribuir com o preenchimento da lacuna de monitoramento da qualidade do ar na cidade do Recife, no Nordeste do Brasil. Através do uso de sensores de baixo custo e do uso de geotecnologias. Os resultados iniciais demonstraram que nos 9 meses de monitoramento da qualidade do ar, a cidade do Recife apresentou índices de qualidade do ar ótimos. Porém alguns dias com índices de poluição moderado e alto, levantam a necessidade de atenção aos riscos de exposição de curto prazo ao PM2,5 e outros poluentes atmosféricos. Em especial durante festividades como as juninas quando a qualidade do ar na cidade chegou a níveis insalubres. Aliados aos dados espaciais, esse monitoramento inicial demonstrou potenciais evidências de uma desigualdade da exposição à poluição do ar na cidade do Recife. Esses dados ressaltaram a importância de um monitoramento da qualidade do ar em áreas diversas, ainda que utilizando sensores de baixo custo.
Ultrasound-guided attenuation parameter for identifying metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease: a prospective study
Authors: Huang Yun-Lin , Sun Chao , Wang Ying , Cheng Juan , Wang Shi-Wen , Wei Li , Lu Xiu-Yun , Cheng Rui , Wang Ming , Fan Jian-Gao , Dong Yi
Published: December 2024

Purpose: This study assessed the performance of the ultrasound-guided attenuation parameter (UGAP) in diagnosing and grading hepatic steatosis in patients with metabolic dysfunctionassociated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Magnetic resonance imaging proton density fat fraction (MRI-PDFF) served as the reference standard.Methods: Patients with hepatic steatosis were enrolled in this prospective study and underwent UGAP measurements. MRI-PDFF values of ≥5%, ≥15%, and ≥25% were used as references for the diagnosis of steatosis grades ≥S1, ≥S2, and S3, respectively. Spearman correlation coefficients and area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs) were calculated.Results: Between July 2023 and June 2024, the study included 88 patients (median age, 40 years; interquartile range [IQR], 36 to 46 years), of whom 54.5% (48/88) were men and 45.5% (40/88) were women. Steatosis grades exhibited the following distribution: 22.7% (20/88) had S0, 50.0% (44/88) had S1, 21.6% (19/88) had S2, and 5.7% (5/88) had S3. The success rate for UGAP measurements was 100%. The median UGAP value was 0.74 dB/cm/MHz (IQR, 0.65 to 0.82 dB/ cm/MHz), and UGAP values were positively correlated with MRI-PDFF (r=0.77, P<0.001). The AUCs of UGAP for the diagnoses of ≥S1, ≥S2, and S3 steatosis were 0.91, 0.90, and 0.88, respectively. In the subgroup analysis, 98.4% (60/61) of patients had valid controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) values. UGAP measurements were positively correlated with CAP values (r=0.65, P<0.001).Conclusion: Using MRI-PDFF as the reference standard, UGAP demonstrates good diagnostic performance in the detection and grading of hepatic steatosis in patients with MASLD.
Rhythms of nature: exploring the phenology of Guapira opposita (Vell.) Reitz in southern Espírito Santo, Brazil
Authors: Glüter Lübe Sara , Chichorro José Franklim , Horn Kunz Sustanis , Borges Dias Patrícia , Catein dos Santos Kézia , De Maria Sales Denyse Cássia
Published: December 2024

Plant phenology makes it possible to understand the dynamics of vegetative and reproductive events in response to the environmental conditions that affect populations and communities in a given habitat. In addition, this knowledge enriches the ecological aspects of species and supports the development, recovery and conservation of ecosystems. With this in mind, the aim of this study was to characterize the phenology of Guapira opposita (Vell.) Reitz and verify the influence of climatic variables (factors and temperature) on the different phenophases of the species, which comes from two forest remnants located in the south of the state of Espírito Santo. Phenological data was collected monthly during 2014 and the Fournier intensity index and percentage intensity methods were used in the analysis. There was little variation in the vegetation behavior of the species, which led to its classification as evergreen. No reproductive phenophases were observed, which may be related to climatic factors. It is known that the behavior of G. opposita vegetation is not very variable and the water deficit that occurred in the sampling year was probably the limiting factor for the non-occurrence of the species' reproductive phenophases.
Integrating Religion and Spirituality into Practice
Authors: Ahearn Sister Mary Patrice
Published: December 2024

As clinicians and academics who come from a faith background, we know and deeply value the dialogue between science and religion. In a recent article, Vieten et al. (2023) point out that there is significant data indicating that spiritual and religious backgrounds, including one’s personal beliefs and practices, are related to better psychological health. Vieten et al. further state that clients want to discuss their spirituality/religion and incorporate it into their treatment, and the authors rightfully note that religion and spirituality is also an issue of multicultural diversity. Significantly, however, they conclude that it is not clear how much mental health professionals view someone’s religion or spirituality as relevant to treatment.
Application of salmonella phage to reduce in-vitro and in-vivo colonization of salmonella enteritidis and salmonella typhi
Authors: Mahmud Muayad , Abdul-Rahman Sherko , Jafaar Aziz , Hassan Zuber
Published: December 2024

Background and objective: Salmonella typhi is the causative agent of enteric fever while Salmonella enteritidis causes gastroenteritis. Lytic bacteriophages can be applied as biocontrol agents to prevent Salmonella infections. The purpose of this study was to prepare a proper Salmonella phage therapy candidate to be used against pathogenic Salmonella enteritidis and Salmonella typhi.

Methods: We used clinical isolates of Salmonella typhi and Salmonella enteritidis as host bacteria, to isolate Salmonella-specific phages from raw sewage water in four locations (Bahrka, Farmnbaran neighborhoods, Korey and Shaqlawa towns) in Erbil district. We assessed the efficacy of this phage as a biocontrol agent against Salmonella enteritidis in-vivo using four groups of 8 pathogen-free duck chicks. A group was kept as uninfected control while the other three groups were artificially infected with a clinical strain of Salmonella enteritidis. Two of the infected groups were treated by oral administration of phage suspension using two different doses of Salmonella enteritidis phage (7 and 12 Log10 Plague Forming Unit respectively). To compare the bacterial growth dynamics among the infected groups, one group was kept untreated.

Results: We found that the four sewage samples contained bacteriophages for the two bacterial isolates with different plaque diameters and morphology. Salmonella enteritidis phage isolates collected from the Farmanbaran neighborhood showed the best lysing efficacy in-vitro hence it was selected to be tested in-vivo experiment. Phage-treatment significantly reduced the colonization burden of Salmonella enteritidis in feces and cecum contents of the experimentally infected chicks.

Conclusion: These results suggest that using Salmonella phage could be a good agent to control Salmonella.
Asking New Questions; Challenging the Narrative
Authors: Schultz Debra L.
Published: December 2024

Discusses the implementation of the Black, Race and Ethnic Studies Initiative (BRESI) at City University of New York. The author discusses the history, grant support, vision, and goals of the BRESI program, including key reflections from supporters and participants. This commentary describes the various student, faculty, and research components delivered and being planned as future activities.
The 1986 World Cup during Mexico’s Neoliberal Turn
Authors: Pliego Campos Noe
Published: December 2024

The bidding process, organizing, and hosting of the 1986 World Cup in Mexico spanned almost four years of President Miguel de la Madrid’s presidency (1982–88) and was tied to major events, including the 1982 debt crisis and the 1985 Mexico City earthquake. As such, its significance morphed as the nation’s economic and political landscape shifted. Drawing on press and official documents, I argue that the megasports event revealed the continuities in economic and political practices by the Partido Revolucionario Institutional (PRI) and provided oppositional critics an avenue to question the government’s response to the crises during the Lost Decade, a period of economic loss.
Novel ternary AgCl/Bi2WO6/TiO2 composites for enhanced photocatalytic activity
Authors:   School of Mechanical Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China, Ding Y. H. , Zhang Y. T. ,   School of Mechanical Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China, Guo J. L. ,   School of Mechanical Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China, Duan Y. J. ,   School of Mechanical Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China, Lei K. ,   School of Mechanical Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China, Hu S. J. ,   School of Mechanical Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China, Dong H. R. ,   School of Mechanical Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China, Xiong R. ,   Sichuan Province Engineering Technology Research Center of Powder Metallurgy, Chengdu, 610106, China, Sun Y. ,   School of Mechanical Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China
Published: December 2024

TiO2 microspheres and Bi2WO6 microflowers were fabricated by hydrothermal method and
then in-situ deposited with AgCl particles to form a ternary AgCl/Bi2WO6/TiO2 (ABT)
heterojunction. Compared with pure AgCl, Bi2WO6, and TiO2, with the mass ratio 4:1:4,
ternary heterojunction exhibited the highest photocatalytic performance, achieving 99.4%
removal efficiency of Rhodamine B (RhB) in 30 min. The improved degradation efficiency
was ascribed to the formation of heterojunctions, which reduced the combination of
photogenerated carriers and accelerated their separation and transfer.
Challenges in diagnosis and treatment of KCNJ11-MODY
Authors: Gonçalves Juliana , Ferreira Helena Urbano , Ribeiro Sara , Fernandes da Rocha Diogo , Souto Selma B , Pedro Jorge , Freitas Paula , Queirós Joana
Published: December 2024

Maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) is a subtype of monogenic diabetes and a rare type of diabetes, which accounts for 1–5% of cases and is often underdiagnosed. The importance of its diagnosis lies in the potential implications that it can have on disease management and offspring. We report a de novo KCNJ11-MODY case and the process of transition from insulin to sulfonylureas. A 24-year-old Caucasian woman was referred to the Endocrinology Department on account of newly diagnosed diabetes mellitus. Her past medical history was unremarkable; however, her family history was relevant, as three grandparents had diabetes. Blood tests showed elevated haemoglobin A1c (10.7%) and fasting glucose (278 mg/dL), prompting the initiation of insulin therapy. Further tests revealed a normal C-peptide level (2.75 ng/mL) and negative anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase and anti-insulin antibodies. The examination of past medical records revealed pre-diabetes since the age of 13. Genetic testing identified a heterozygous pathogenic variant p.(Glu227Lys) in the KCNJ11 gene. Excellent glycaemic control was achieved upon initiation of gliclazide, leading to the withdrawal of insulin treatment. KCNJ11-MODY is an extremely uncommon subtype of MODY, with only a few reported cases worldwide. This case is important, as it supports the use of sulfonylureas as an effective treatment for KCNJ11-MODY.

Learning points

De novo KCNJ11 variants challenge MODY calculators.

Gliclazide is safe, is effective in the long term and improves quality of life.

Precision medicine is essential in the management of diabetes.
Analysis of the Application of AI Generators to Solve Complex Business Problems
Authors:   Twigames Inc., Wilmington, USA, Minenko Valeryi D.
Published: December 2024

Introduction. In recent years, there has been significant growth in the use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (Generative AI) applications that create visual data based on textual descriptions. This opens up new possibilities for enhancing information systems across various applied fields. It goes beyond just vivid forms of representation or information display; it offers the potential to address complex practical tasks at a fundamentally different level. The ability to store the history of visualizations allows tracking the dynamics of changes in specific information over time, providing deeper information analysis and a higher level of decision-making and strategy formulation in complex business systems.

However, the semantic quality of generating visual content remains a challenge, influenced not only by the choice of the generation model itself but also by the accuracy of the input instructions.

This article is dedicated to analyzing the current state of Generative AI technologies, existing models, their functional capabilities, advantages, limitations, and drawbacks.

Purpose. The research aims, on one hand, to identify effective applications of these technologies in solving complex business tasks, and on the other hand, to highlight issues with existing models regarding their integration into the business process chain and possible ways to address them.

Results and conclusion. The analysis conducted allowed:

Identifying common features of existing systems and highlighting characteristics significant for choosing a model in terms of its integration into a complex system, such as the semantic accuracy of generation results, openness of code, price, multilinguality, etc.

Formulating directions for further research, primarily focused on developing methodological foundations for automatically generating input textual descriptions for Generative AI models in video content generation.