bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The CREB1 inhibitor 666-15 maintains cartilage homeostasis and mitigates osteoarthritis progression
Authors: Wang Ying , Wu Zhimin , Yan Guoqiang , Li Shan , Zhang Yanzhuo , Li Guangping , Wu Chengai
Published: January 2024

Aims

cAMP response element binding protein (CREB1) is involved in the progression of osteoarthritis (OA). However, available findings about the role of CREB1 in OA are inconsistent. 666-15 is a potent and selective CREB1 inhibitor, but its role in OA is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the precise role of CREB1 in OA, and whether 666-15 exerts an anti-OA effect.

Methods

CREB1 activity and expression of a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 4 (ADAMTS4) in cells and tissues were measured by immunoblotting and immunohistochemical (IHC) staining. The effect of 666-15 on chondrocyte viability and apoptosis was examined by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, JC-10, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end-labelling (TUNEL) staining. The effect of 666-15 on the microstructure of subchondral bone, and the synthesis and catabolism of cartilage, in anterior cruciate ligament transection mice were detected by micro-CT, safranin O and fast green (S/F), immunohistochemical staining, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

CREB1 was hyperactive in osteoarthritic articular cartilage, interleukin (IL)-1β-treated cartilage explants, and IL-1β- or carbonyl cyanide 3-chlorophenylhydrazone (CCCP)-treated chondrocytes. 666-15 enhanced cell viability of OA-like chondrocytes and alleviated IL-1β- or CCCP-induced chondrocyte injury through inhibition of mitochondrial dysfunction-associated apoptosis. Moreover, inhibition of CREB1 by 666-15 suppressed expression of ADAMTS4. Additionally, 666-15 alleviated joint degeneration in an ACLT mouse model.

Conclusion

Hyperactive CREB1 played a critical role in OA development, and 666-15 exerted anti-IL-1β or anti-CCCP effects in vitro as well as joint-protective effects in vivo. 666-15 may therefore be used as a promising anti-OA drug.

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2024;13(1):4–18.
RHEOLOGY AS A TOOL FOR TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENTS IN SELF-COMPACTING LIGHTWEIGHT CONCRETE MIXES
Authors:   Odessa State Academy of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Department of Processes and Apparatuses in the Technology of Building Materials, 4 Didrihsona St., 65029 Odesa, Ukraine, Ostryzniuk Maksym , Gedulyan Sergіi ,   Odessa State Academy of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Department of Processes and Apparatuses in the Technology of Building Materials, 4 Didrihsona St., 65029 Odesa, Ukraine, Antoniuk Nadіia ,   Odessa State Academy of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Department of Processes and Apparatuses in the Technology of Building Materials, 4 Didrihsona St., 65029 Odesa, Ukraine, Moskalova Khrystyna ,   Odessa State Academy of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Department of Processes and Apparatuses in the Technology of Building Materials, 4 Didrihsona St., 65029 Odesa, Ukraine
Published: January 2024

This paper outlines a methodology aimed at enhancing the technological performance of self-compacting concrete using lightweight expanded clay aggregate. One of the primary challenges encountered when employing concrete with lightweight aggregate involves displacing expanded clay grains within the solution's liquid phase to ensure necessary fluidity (workability) while upholding high stability (structural viscosity and segregation resistance). To achieve this objective, the rheological parameters of the self-compacting cement matrix have been regulated by deliberately adjusting the functional groups of additives and the microfine mineral filler, employing analytical methods from computer materials science. Through the analysis of rheometric results obtained from investigating various solution mixtures, the most suitable model that describes their rheological behaviour has been identified. The impact of finely dispersed fly ash excipient, a carboxylate superplasticiser, and a stabiliser additive on the rheological parameters of self-compacting lightweight concrete mixes has been established. The inclusion of these complex additives in the composition has enabled substantial alterations in the flow index across a wide range (0,030-0,798). This adaptability allows for the adjustment of the mortar mixture's rheological behaviour throughout a spectrum ranging from «abnormally viscous liquid» to «Newtonian liquid». This approach, examining the singular-factor dependencies' analysis on the coefficients of rheological behaviour models, aids in addressing the primary challenge encountered when using concrete with lightweight aggregate.
Timeless Todays in a Changing World: A Translation of Fujiwara no Nobuzane's Ima monogatari
Authors: Brightwell Erin L.
Published: January 2024

Abstract: War tales, historical narratives, and setsuwa collections—both Buddhist and, to a lesser degree, those concerned with court life—are today the most famous prose genres from the Kamakura period (1185–1333). Common to many of these works is a preoccupation with decline, be it the corruption of Buddhist teachings or the loss of court culture. Fujiwara no Nobuzane's court-oriented setsuwa collection Ima monogatari (Today's Tales), however, takes a different tack. Rather than fetishize the past or bemoan the current state of affairs, it recounts a world in which the present is inevitably different from the past, but without presenting that as cause for sorrow or alarm. As a collection that displays its author's literacy, social connections, and sense of humor, Today's Tales thus offers a fresh perspective on the social and cultural changes of the mid-thirteenth century.
The Dark Mark: BnF Héb. 20 and the Borders of Bible Illumination
Authors: Harris Julie A.
Published: January 2024

Abstract: This paper concerns an enigmatic mark found in BnF Héb. 20—an early fourteenth-century Bible codex associated with the workshop of scribe, masorete, and painter Joshua Ibn Gaon. The dull black ovoid shape (on folio 194v) precedes the Bible portion that recounts the events leading up to King David's death (1 Kings 1). It is interesting for its divergence from the codex's extensive pericope marks (which likely served as aids to Bible use and memorization) and from its marginal decoration, which has been presented as a nascent example of Bible illumination in manuscripts made for Iberian Jews. Here, the mark, which is placed above the chapter within the confines of the text column, may be understood as "commenting" on David's complicated life as well as heralding his imminent demise. My paper suggests that the mark was originally silver and represents a contemporary mirror, making it an early example of a late medieval iconography linking mirrors and death. This reading underscores the intimate relationship between a patron/viewer and his Hebrew Bible codex.
Arabic Medical Handbooks in the Matenadaran Collection
Authors: Makaryan Venera , Avetisyan Ani
Published: January 2024

Abstract: This article presents MS 1415 and MA 1752 from the manuscript collection of the Matenadaran, which are medical treatises of the "who is not attended by a physician: genre. MS 1415 is a medical miscellany, the first work of which is Kitāb al-ghiná wa-al-muná (The book of wealth and wishes), by Mansūr al-Ḥasan Ibn Nūḥ al-Qumrī (al-Qamarī al-Bukhārī). MS 1752 is Zād al-musāfir wa-qūt al-ḥāḍir ( Provisions for the Traveller and the Nourishment for the Sedentary ), by Abū Ja'far Aḥmad Ibn Ibrāhīm Ibn Abī Khālid Ibn al-Jazzār, written in Judeo-Arabic.
Advanced technique of myocardial no-reflow quantification using indocyanine green
Authors: Sonin Dmitry , Papayan Garry , Istomina Maria , Anufriev Ilya , Pochkaeva Evgeniia , Minasian Sarkis , Zaytseva Ekaterina , Mukhametdinova Daria , Mochalov Daniil , Aleksandrov Ilia , Petrishchev Nickolay , Galagudza Michael
Published: January 2024

The post-ischemic no-reflow phenomenon after primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is observed in more than half of subjects and is defined as the absence or marked slowing of distal coronary blood flow despite removal of the arterial occlusion. To visualize no-reflow in experimental studies, the fluorescent dye thioflavin S (ThS) is often used, which allows for the estimation of the size of microvascular obstruction by staining the endothelial lining of vessels. Based on the ability of indocyanine green (ICG) to be retained in tissues with increased vascular permeability, we proposed the possibility of using it to assess not only the severity of microvascular obstruction but also the degree of vascular permeability in the zone of myocardial infarction. The aim of our study was to investigate the possibility of using ICG to visualize no-reflow zones after ischemia-reperfusion injury of rat myocardium. Using dual ICG and ThS staining and the FLUM multispectral fluorescence organoscope, we recorded ICG and ThS fluorescence within the zone of myocardial necrosis, identifying ICG-negative zones whose size correlated with the size of the no-reflow zones detected by ThS. It is also shown that the contrast change between the no-reflow zone and nonischemic myocardium reflects the severity of blood stasis, indicating that ICG-negative zones are no-reflow zones. The described method can be an addition or alternative to the traditional method of measuring the size of no-reflow zones in the experiment.
Plethysmographic assessment of vasomotor response in patients with congestive heart failure before and after heart transplantation
Authors: Mamontov Oleg V. , Zaytsev Valeriy V. , Kamshilin Alexei A.
Published: January 2024

Sympathetic vasomotor response is the most important part of the autonomic regulation of circulation, which determines the quality of life. It is disrupted in a number of diseases, particularly in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF). However, experimental evaluation of reflex vasoconstriction is still a non-trivial task due to the limited set of available technologies. The aim of this study is to assess the dynamics of vasomotor response of forearm vessels due to both the deactivation of cardiopulmonary baroreceptors and cold stress using a newly designed imaging plethysmograph (IPG) and compare its performance with classical air plethysmograph (APG). In both vasoconstriction tests, vasomotor response was assessed as a change in the blood flow rate due to venous occlusion compared to that at rest. Both tests were carried out in 45 CHF patients both before and after heart transplantation, as well as in 11 age-matched healthy volunteers. Prior to transplantation, both APG and IPG showed a significant decrease in vasomotor response in CHF patients due to both tests as compared to the control group. After heart transplantation, an increase in vasomotor reactivity was revealed in both vasoconstriction tests. We have found that both plethysmographic techniques provide correlated assessment of changes in the vasomotor response. In addition, we have found that IPG is more resistant to artifacts than APG. The new IPG method has the advantage of measuring blood flow in a contactless manner, making it very promising for experimental evaluation of vasomotor response in clinical conditions.
Parameter-free fiber coupling method for inter-satellite laser communications based on Gaussian approximation
Authors: Li Ziqiang , Pan Ziting , Li Yuting , Yang Xu , Li Feng , Geng Chao , Li Xinyang
Published: January 2024

Satellite constellation networks play a pivotal role in making Beyond 5G services universally accessible to people worldwide. Inter-satellite laser communication is a crucial component of satellite communication networks. To utilize fiber amplifiers, it is imperative to couple the free-space optical beam into a single-mode fiber. However, vibrations and non-coaxial errors significantly impact coupling efficiency, thereby affecting communication quality. We have developed a parameter-free fiber coupling method based on Gaussian approximation to rectify non-coaxial errors and mitigate incident angle deviations induced by vibrations, ensuring consistently high coupling efficiency. This method is fast, stable, and parameter-free, eliminating the need for manual intervention. Furthermore, experimental results demonstrate the method’s effectiveness across the entire correction range of the correction device. In environments with strong vibrations, the communication link experiences a bit error rate of 6.734 E-2, which is reduced to zero bit errors after implementing this method in a closed loop.
Dual-interrogation method for suppressing light shift in Rb 778 nm two-photon transition optical frequency standard
Authors: Li Dou , Liu Kangqi , Wang Pengfei , Kang Songbai
Published: January 2024

In this study, a dual-interrogation (DI) method was used to suppress the light shift in the Rb 778 nm 5S1/2→5D5/2 two-photon transition optical frequency standard (2hν-OFS). The approach used an auxiliary system to calibrate the light shift of the primary system in real time to mitigate the absolute light shift and suppress the sensitivity of the system to the light power. Results show that after using the DI method, the absolute light shift and light-power sensitivity of the system were reduced by a factor of 10. The proposed method will improve the accuracy of the Rb 778 nm 2hν-OFS and increase the mid- and long-term stability. The method can also be applied to other vapor-cell atomic frequency standards that experience light shifts.
Multiplexed wavefront sensing with a thin diffuser
Authors: Wu Tengfei , Guillon Marc , Tessier Gilles , Berto Pascal
Published: January 2024

In astronomy or biological imaging, refractive index inhomogeneities of, e.g., atmosphere or tissues, induce optical aberrations that degrade the desired information hidden behind the medium. A standard approach consists of measuring these aberrations with a wavefront sensor (e.g., Shack–Hartmann) located in the pupil plane, and compensating for them either digitally or by adaptive optics with a wavefront shaper. However, in its usual implementation this strategy can only extract aberrations within a single isoplanatic patch, i.e., a region where the aberrations remain correlated. This limitation severely reduces the effective field-of-view in which the correction can be performed. Here, we propose a wavefront sensing method capable of measuring, in a single shot, various pupil aberrations corresponding to multiple isoplanatic patches. The method, based on a thin diffuser (i.e., a random phase mask), exploits the dissimilarity between different speckle regions to multiplex several wavefronts incoming from various incidence angles. We present proof-of-concept experiments carried out in widefield fluorescence microscopy. A digital deconvolution procedure in each isoplanatic patch yields accurate aberration correction within an extended field-of-view. This approach is of interest for adaptive optics applications as well as diffractive optical tomography.
Micro-opto-mechanical glass interferometer for megahertz modulation of optical signals
Authors: Memeo Roberto , Crespi Andrea , Osellame Roberto
Published: January 2024

Waveguide-based interferometric circuits are widely employed in optical communications, sensing, and computing applications. In particular, glass-based devices are appealing due to the transparency and bio-compatibility of this substrate, or where low-loss interfacing with fiber networks is required. However, fast electro-optic phase modulation is hard to achieve in glass materials. Here, we demonstrate an optical phase and intensity modulator in glass, working in the megahertz range. This modulator exploits the elasto-optic effect inside a mechanical microstructure, brought to oscillation at resonance, and is entirely realized by femtosecond laser micromachining. In detail, we demonstrate 23-dB optical intensity modulation at 1.17 MHz, with an internal optical loss of the phase-modulator component as low as 0.04 dB.
A computational modeling of pri-miRNA expression
Authors: Zheng Hansi , Wang Saidi , Li Xiaoman , Hu Haiyan
Published: January 2024

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play crucial roles in gene regulation. Most studies focus on mature miRNAs, which leaves many unknowns about primary miRNAs (pri-miRNAs). To fill the gap, we attempted to model the expression of pri-miRNAs in 1829 primary cell types, cell lines, and tissues in this study. We demonstrated that the expression of pri-miRNAs can be modeled well by the expression of specific sets of mRNAs, which we termed their associated mRNAs. These associated mRNAs differ from their corresponding target mRNAs and are enriched with specific functions. Most associated mRNAs of a miRNA are shared across conditions, while on average, about one-fifth of the associated mRNAs are condition-specific. Our study shed new light on understanding miRNA biogenesis and general gene transcriptional regulation.
Micropulse cyclophotocoagulation compared to continuous wave cyclophotocoagulation for the management of refractory pediatric glaucoma
Authors: Wang Bo , Wallace Ryan T. , Musser John A. , Chaya Craig J. , Kraus Courtney L.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Micropulse cyclophotocoagulation (MPCPC) has been shown in adults to offer a favorable post-operative safety profile compared to continuous wave transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (CWCPC) in the management of glaucoma. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the long term efficacy, safety, and effectiveness of MPCPC in the management of pediatric glaucoma when compared to CWCPC.

Methods

IRB approved retrospective chart review of patients with pediatric glaucoma that underwent MPCPC and CWCPC at 2 separate institutions. Success was defined as intraocular pressure (IOP) between 5 and 21mmHg on any number of topical glaucoma medication without requiring additional surgical intervention or oral IOP lowering medication.

Results

Of the 48 patients in the study, 22 (26 eyes) underwent MPCPC and 26 (30 eyes) underwent CWCPC. At 1 year, 7 out of 26 eyes (26.9%) achieved success in the MPCPC group compared to 13 out of 30 eyes (43.3%) in the CWCPC group. Survival analysis unveiled a statistically significant difference in success between the two groups (p = 0.03).

Conclusion

In pediatric glaucoma patients undergoing cyclophotocoagulation procedures, CWCPC outperformed MPCPC using default settings in terms of achieving long-term IOP control. Additional studies are required to evaluated augmented MPCPC settings in pediatric glaucoma patients.
Factors associated with the acceptability of Lopinavir/Ritonavir formulations among children living with HIV/AIDS attending care and treatment clinics in Mbeya and Mwanza, Tanzania
Authors: Jiwa Nadiya Alnoor , Ketang’enyi Eunice , Nganyanyuka Kapongola , Mbwanji Ruth , Mwenisongole Danistan , Masuka Eutropia , Brown Mary , Charles Mary , Mwasomola Davance Leonard , Nyangalima Thomas , Olomi Willyhelmina , Komba Lilian , Gwimile Judith , Kasambala Bertha , Mwita Lumumba
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Children living with chronic illnesses are offered formulations based on manufacturer and distributor research. The aim of this study is to better understand the perspectives of children and their caregivers in accepting Lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV/r) formulations.

Methods

362 participants were recruited from two pediatric HIV/AIDS clinics in Mbeya and Mwanza, Tanzania, from December 2021 to May 2022. A translated questionnaire was piloted and validated at both clinics, followed by the implementation of a cross-sectional study.

Results

169 participants (47.1%) reported general difficulties in swallowing, regardless of formulation, while 34.3% and 38.5% reported vomiting tablets and syrups, respectively. Statistical significance is shown to support that children can swallow medications if they can eat stiffened porridge (Ugali). This correlated with the lower incidence of younger children being able to swallow compared to older children (above six years of age). Children older than six years preferred taking tablets (independent of daily dosage) better than other formulations. Significantly, older children who attend school were associated with high odds of swallowing medicine (AOR = 3.06, 95%CI; 1.32–7.05); however, age was not found to be statistically related to ease of administration for Lopinavir/Ritonavir in this study.

Conclusions

Lopinavir/Ritonavir tablets remain the most accepted formulation among children and adolescents with HIV/AIDS. This study highlights the impact of various factors affecting the acceptability of pediatric formulation, suggesting that children younger than six years, unable to eat Ugali and not attending schools may be most vulnerable regarding their ability to accept Lopinavir/Ritonavir formulations. Further studies are needed to assess the acceptability of other medications in chronically ill children.
Distribution characteristics and diversity of myxomycetes in three parallel rivers in Yunnan, China
Authors: Zhu Xiangyang , Naicker Odeshnee , Peng Zhanwu , Qi Bao , Wang Qi , Li Yu
Published: January 2024

Three Parallel Rivers is one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. However, the research on myxomycetes diversity is scarce in this area. Random sampling was used to investigate myxomycetes’ diversity and distribution characteristics in this area. One hundred and seventeen species, including three varieties, were obtained, belonging to 28 genera, nine families, and six orders, with Arcyria cinerea and Physarum viride being the dominant species. Moreover, four species and one variety were first reported in China. Twenty-six species and one variety were first reported in Yunnan Province. The species’ most commonly utilized substrate for fruiting bodies was decaying wood, and Cribraria was the dominant genus. The species diversity was most abundant in mixed broadleaf-conifer forests. Species similarity between coniferous and broad-leaved forests was much higher than the pairwise comparison of other forest types. NMDS analysis shows that substrate and forest types had insignificant effects on myxomycetes communities, while river valley had a significant effect. The myxomycetes community similarity between river valleys is unrelated to geographical proximity.
Liver transplant recipients with polycystic liver disease have longer waiting times but better long-term clinical outcomes than those with liver disease due to other causes: A retrospective cross-sectional study
Authors: Gittus Matt , Moore Joanna , Ong Albert C. M.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Liver transplantation is the only curative option for patients with polycystic liver disease (PLD). In the United Kingdom, these patients are listed on the variant syndrome list due to their preserved liver function reflected in the United Kingdom End-stage Liver Disease (UKELD) score. The transplantation and survival rates for this patient group in the UK have not been previously reported.

Methods

A retrospective cross-sectional analysis of patients receiving liver transplantation between 2010 and 2017 was performed using the NHS blood and transplantation database. This database contains the demographic, clinical parameters, indication for transplantation and follow-up of all patients in UK-based transplant centres. Basic statistics was performed using SPSS version 27.

Results

5412 recipients received elective liver allografts in the study period. 1.6% (100) of recipients had PLD as their primary indication for transplantation with 60 receiving liver only allografts and 40 receiving combined liver-kidney allografts. PLD patients had a >3-fold longer mean waiting time for transplantation compared to non-PLD patients, 508 days v 154 days respectively. PLD patients receiving combined liver-kidney allografts had a longer waiting time than those receiving a liver only allograft, 610 days v 438 days respectively. There were comparable patient survival rates for people with PLD and non-PLD primary indications at 30 days (94.0% vs 97.6%) and 1 year (92.0% vs 93.2%) but improved survival rates at 5 years (81.3% vs 76.5%). There were also comparable allograft survival rates for people with PLD and non-PLD primary indications at 30 days (93.9% vs 95.3%) and 1 year (91.9% vs 91.2%) but improved survival rates at 5 years (82.5% vs 77.3%). Transplant centre-level analysis identified variation in the proportion of liver transplantations for people with PLD as their primary listed indication.

Conclusions

Patients with PLD wait significantly longer for liver transplantation compared to other indications. However, transplanted PLD patients demonstrate better longer-term patient and liver allograft survival rates compared to transplanted non-PLD patients. The unexpected variation between individual UK centres transplanting for PLD deserves further study.
Diagnostic psychiatric and somatic comorbidity in patients with depression in the Western Balkan countries
Authors: Latas Milan , Stefanovski Branko , Mihaljević-Peleš Alma , Memić Serdarević Amra , Pajević Izet , Radulović Nera Zivlak , Radulović Sabina , Đukić Bojana , Korugić Vasilije , Jovandić Željko
Published: January 2024

Introduction

This paper aims to examine the frequency and significance of diagnostic comorbidity of psychiatric disorders and somatic diseases in a sample of patients with depression as well as present current psychopharmacological treatment of the patients in the sample.

Methods

The subjects in this study sample were 489 patients from the four Western Balkan countries with current primary diagnosis of major depression according to ICD 10. Comorbid psychiatric disorders and non-psychiatric illnesses were noted according to ICD 10 criteria during the diagnostic interview and analysed later. Additionally, the pharmacological treatment (existing and newly introduced) for each patient was noted and analysed later.

Results

At least one comorbid psychiatric disorder was present in 72.5% of patients. The most frequent were anxiety disorders (53.6%), specifically generalized anxiety disorder (20.2%); non-organic sleep disorders (50.7%), specifically insomnia (48.4%); and sexual dysfunctions (21.4%), specifically lack of sexual desire (20.2%). Comorbidity with any non-psychiatric illness was present in 80.3% of patients. The most frequent were circulatory system diseases (55.9%), specifically hypertension (45.9%); endocrine, nutritional and metabolic disorders (51.3%), specifically hyperlipidaemia (24.0%); and other non-psychiatric disorders (60.7%), specifically low back pain (22.7%). All patients received pharmacological treatment with different medications. Most patients received monotherapy or combination therapy of antidepressants, anxiolytics, antipsychotics and antiepileptics. The most frequently used antidepressants were escitalopram, sertraline, and duloxetine. The most frequently used anxiolytics were alprazolam and diazepam, the most used antiepileptic was pregabalin, and the most used antipsychotics were olanzapine, quetiapine, and aripiprazole.

Conclusion

The results of the study confirm the results of previous research studies about the high prevalence of psychiatric and non-psychiatric comorbidities in patients with depression that were conducted in the past. It would be important if future studies could prove the importance of those comorbidities on clinical severity, choice of treatment, and its outcome in patients with depression.
Immigrant men ‘s perceptions and experiences of accompanying their partner for contraceptive counselling provided by midwives in Sweden- a qualitative study
Authors: Kolak Mia , Agardh Anette , Rubertsson Christine , Hansson Stefan R. , Ekstrand Ragnar Maria
Published: January 2024

Background

Male involvement in maternal health care has proven to be beneficial for improving maternal and child health and is often crucial in areas of family planning and contraceptive use. However, compared to male involvement in maternal health care, male involvement in contraceptive counselling is complex and controversial and thus faces certain challenges. Immigrant men in Sweden are often accompanying their partner for contraceptive counselling. Little is known about their presence and role.

Aim

To explore how immigrant men from the Middle East and Afghanistan perceive and experience accompanying their partner for contraceptive counselling provided by midwives in Sweden.

Methods

Inductive qualitative content analysis guided the interpretation of data based on 21 individual in-depth interviews.

Findings

Balancing conflicting values and norms about sexual and reproductive health and rights including family planning was challenging and confusing when living in Sweden. Contraceptive counselling was perceived as a joint visit, and men were often acting as decision makers. The midwife’s role as a contraceptive counsellor was perceived as trusted, but knowledge was lacking about the Swedish midwifery model and the Swedish healthcare system. Providers’ ways of communicating sensitive information were crucial. Without marriage contraceptive counselling was unthinkable.

Conclusion

Highlighting male engagement and including men’s sexual and reproductive health at policy levels are necessary for improving women’s sexual and reproductive health and rights. Additional and new ways of contraceptive counselling and midwifery services, such as outreach work and joint visits, are needed in order to reach both men and women.
Sex differences in cardiovascular risk factors and quality of life among individuals with hypertension in Korea from 2013 to 2018: A cross-sectional cohort study
Authors: Jung Hyejin
Published: January 2024

As its prevalence increases and its association with cardiovascular disease and mortality is established, there is a need to improve prevention and management strategies for hypertension. Therefore, we aimed to compare differences in cardiovascular health status between men and women with hypertension defined by systolic blood pressure ≥140 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mmHg, and/or treatment with antihypertensive drugs. The association between cardiovascular health status and health-related quality of life was also evaluated. Additionally, a secondary analysis was performed on the cross-sectional data from 7306 adults with hypertension, ≥40 years of age between 2013 and 2018. Of this sample, 51.2% of patients were women from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The seven Cardiovascular Health Metrics were used to quantify cardiovascular health status and the 5-dimensional European Quality of Life Questionnaire (EQ-5D) was used to evaluate health-related quality of life. A higher proportion of men than that of women was observed in the poor cardiovascular health score group [total score 0–7], with a higher proportion of women in the intermediate group [total score 8–10] and ideal group [total 11–14] (p<0.0001). The proportion of women in the EQ-5D index was higher than that of men in the poor and intermediate groups (p<0.0001), with no difference in the proportion of men and women in the ideal group (p = 0.1452). Furthermore, specific cardiovascular risk factors were different between men and women: women had lower physical activity level and higher prevalence of high cholesterol (≥200 mg/dl), and men had higher body mass indices and worse diet management. These findings indicate that prevention and management strategies for hypertension and cardiovascular health might need to differ for men and women to improve outcomes.
Acute and persistent effects of oral glutamine supplementation on growth, cellular proliferation, and tight junction protein transcript abundance in jejunal tissue of low and normal birthweight pre-weaning piglets
Authors: Schregel Johannes , Schulze Holthausen Johannes , Sciascia Quentin L. , Görs Solvig , Li Zeyang , Tuchscherer Armin , Albrecht Elke , Zentek Jürgen , Metges Cornelia C.
Published: January 2024

Breeding for higher fertility has resulted in a higher number of low birthweight (LBW) piglets. It has been shown that LBW piglets grow slower than normal birthweight(NBW)littermates. Differences in growth performance have been associated with impaired small intestinal development. In suckling and weaning piglets, glutamine(Gln)supplementation has been associated with improved growth and intestinal development. This study was designed to examine the effects of oral Gln supplementation on growth and small intestinal parameters in LBW and NBW suckling piglets. At birth (day 0), a total of 72 LBW (1.10 ± 0.06 kg) and 72 NBW (1.51 ± 0.06) male piglets were selected. At day 1, litters were standardized to 12 piglets, and experimental piglets supplemented daily with either Gln (1 g/kg BW) or isonitrogenous amounts of Alanine(Ala)as control (1.22 g/kg BW) until day 12. Creep feed was offered from day 14 onward. Subgroups of piglets were euthanized at days 5, 12, and 26 for the analyses of jejunal morphometry, cellular proliferation, glutathione concentration and transcript abundance of tight junction proteins. From age day 11 to 21, Gln supplemented LBW (LBW-Gln) piglets were heavier than Ala supplemented LBW (LBW-Ala) littermates (P= 0.034), while NBW piglets were heavier until age day 26 compared to LBW littermates. Villus height was higher in LBW-Gln compared to LBW-Ala on age day 12 (P= 0.031). Sporadic differences among supplementation and birthweight groups were detected for jejunal cellular proliferation, cellular population and glutathione concentration, whereas age was the most dominant factor. These results show that Gln supplementation improved the growth of LBW piglets compared to LBW-Ala beyond the termination of Gln supplementation, but this was not associated with consistent effects on selected parameters of jejunal development.
Evaluation of photoreceptor features in retinitis pigmentosa with cystoid macular edema by using an adaptive optics fundus camera
Authors: Kitahata Shohei , Gocho Kiyoko , Motozawa Naohiro , Yokota Satoshi , Yamamoto Midori , Maeda Akiko , Hirami Yasuhiko , Kurimoto Yasuo , Kadonosono Kazuaki , Takahashi Masayo
Published: January 2024

Objective

Cystoid macular edema (CME) in retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is an important complication causing visual dysfunction. We investigated the effect of CME on photoreceptors in RP patients with previous or current CME, using an adaptive optics (AO) fundus camera.

Methods

We retrospectively observed the CME and ellipsoid zone (EZ) length (average of horizontal and vertical sections) by optical coherence tomography. The density and regularity of the arrangement of photoreceptor cells (Voronoi analysis) were examined at four points around 1.5° from superior to inferior and temporal to nasal. We also performed a multivariate analysis using CME duration, central macular thickness and transversal length of CME.

Results

We evaluated 18 patients with previous or current CME (18 eyes; age, 48.7 ± 15.6 years) and 24 patients without previous or current CME (24 eyes; age, 46.0 ± 14.5 years). There were no significant differences in age, logMAR visual acuity, or EZ length. In groups with and without CME, cell density was 11967 ± 3148 and 16239 ± 2935 cells/mm2, and sequence regularity was 85.5 ± 3.4% and 88.5 ± 2.8%, respectively; both parameters were significantly different. The correlation between photoreceptor density and age was more negative in group with CME. The CME group tended toward greater reductions in duration of CME.

Conclusion

Complications of CME in RP patients may lead to a decrease in photoreceptor density and regularity. Additionally, a longer duration of CME may result in a greater reduction in photoreceptor density.
Diversity and characterization of culturable fungi associated with the marine sea cucumber Holothuria scabra
Authors: Wingfield Lakkhana Kanhayuwa , Atcharawiriyakul Jirawalan , Jitprasitporn Ninadia
Published: January 2024

Fungi associated with the marine echinoderm, Holothuria scabra, produces extracellular enzymes and bioactive metabolites, and mycoviruses that could be used for biotechnological and pharmaceutical applications. The species identification based on molecular and morphological characteristics classified the culturable fungi into twenty-three genera belonging to eight orders, Chaetothyriales, Eurotiales, Hypocreales, Mucorales, Mycosphaerellales, Onygenales, Pleosporales and Venturiales, from four classes, Eurotiomycetes, Dothideomycetes, Mucoromycetes and Sordariomycetes of the two phyla Ascomycota and Mucoromycota. The most frequent genera were Aspergillus (relative frequency, 45.30%) and Penicillium (relative frequency, 22.68%). The Menhinick species richness and Shannon species diversity indices were 1.64 and 2.36, respectively, indicating a high diversity of fungi. An enzymatic production test revealed that sixteen isolates could produce proteases and amylases at different levels. The presence of mycoviruses was detected in eight isolates with different genomic profiles. Thirty-two of the 55 isolates produced antimicrobial metabolites which had an inhibitory effect on various microbial pathogens. Most of these active isolates were identified as Aspergillus, Penicillium and Trichoderma. Notably, Aspergillus terreus F10M7, Trichoderma harzianum F31M4 and T. harzianum F31M5 showed the most potent activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and human pathogenic fungi. Our study represents the first report of the mycobiota associated with the marine echinoderm Holothuria scabra.
Dose the increasing burden of social endowment affect sustainable development of economy?
Authors: Yu Zhiyang , Chen Jin , Yu Runfa
Published: January 2024

The rapid increase in the number of older people under the background of population aging has gradually changed the disease spectrum of society, making aging diseases more prevalent, and increasing the demand for health care services, medical and health services, and health insurance among older people, ultimately leading to increasing household and social spending on old age. This study is conducted to assess the impact of those spending burden on the sustainable development of economy and find out some practical and effective solutions. This paper constructs a theoretical model to illustrate the relationship between the old-age dependency ratio and the marginal product of capital (MPK), and then establishes a two-way fixed effect model based on transnational panel data of 81 countries from 1981 to 2017 to verify this relationship empirically. This paper finds that, after controlling a series of variables, an increased burden of old-age dependency leads to a decline in the MPK, a key macroeconomic variable and also a sustainable development criteria, but in which health care, health security systems, and technological innovation play a key and moderating role. The conclusion is also valid after tackling the problem of endogeneity with different methods, like two-stage least squares (TSLS) and the generalized methods of moments (GMM). Overall, before population aging, countries that are old-but-not-rich should encourage more supply-side investments in public health system or technological innovation, and adjust retirement system, or gradually encourage childbearing to strive for time and space for later sustainable development of public health system and economy.
Trichinella spiralis -induced immunomodulation signatures on gut microbiota and metabolic pathways in mice
Authors: Sun Xi-Meng , Hao Chun-Yue , Wu An-Qi , Luo Ze-Ni , El-Ashram Saeed , Alouffi Abdulaziz , Gu Yuan , Liu Sha , Huang Jing-Jing , Zhu Xin-Ping
Published: January 2024

The hygiene hypothesis proposes that decreased exposure to infectious agents in developed countries may contribute to the development of allergic and autoimmune diseases. Trichinella spiralis, a parasitic roundworm, causes trichinellosis, also known as trichinosis, in humans. T. spiralis had many hosts, and almost any mammal could become infected. Adult worms lived in the small intestine, while the larvae lived in muscle cells of the same mammal. T. spiralis was a significant public health threat because it could cause severe illness and even death in humans who eat undercooked or raw meat containing the parasite. The complex interactions between gastrointestinal helminths, gut microbiota, and the host immune system present a challenge for researchers. Two groups of mice were infected with T. spiralis vs uninfected control, and the experiment was conducted over 60 days. The 16S rRNA gene sequences and untargeted LC/MS-based metabolomics of fecal and serum samples, respectively, from different stages of development of the Trichinella spiralis-mouse model, were examined in this study. Gut microbiota alterations and metabolic activity accompanied by parasite-induced immunomodulation were detected. The inflammation parameters of the duodenum (villus/crypt ratio, goblet cell number and size, and histological score) were involved in active inflammation and oxidative metabolite profiles. These profiles included increased biosynthesis of phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan while decreasing cholesterol metabolism and primary and secondary bile acid biosynthesis. These disrupted metabolisms adapted to infection stress during the enteral and parenteral phases and then return to homeostasis during the encapsulated phase. There was a shift from an abundance of Bacteroides in the parenteral phase to an abundance of probiotic Lactobacillus and Treg-associated-Clostridia in the encapsulated phase. Th2 immune response (IL-4/IL-5/IL-13), lamina propria Treg, and immune hyporesponsiveness metabolic pathways (decreased tropane, piperidine and pyridine alkaloid biosynthesis and biosynthesis of alkaloids derived from ornithine, lysine, and nicotinic acid) were all altered. These findings enhanced our understanding of gut microbiota and metabolic profiles of Trichinella -infected mice, which could be a driving force in parasite-shaping immune system maintenance.
Moroccan Sociocultural Practices of Space: Coping with Marginalization in Bidonvilles and Social Housing
Authors: Cheddadi Mohammed Aqil , Rifki Hafsa
Published: January 2024

This article examines the everyday adaptation practices of marginalized inhabitants in present-day Morocco as they respond to their urban domestic environments and resist recent slum relocation projects. We first address urban policies implemented during the French protectorate era (1912–56), many of which have continued to impact Moroccan cities in the twenty-first century. Our research emphasizes the inadequacy of current urban policies and architectural designs, as well as their incompatibility with inhabitants’ ways of living and spatial needs. We explore how different socio-spatial practices in traditional medina cities, shantytowns, and social housing complexes illustrate marginalized social groups’ adaptation to official policies and sociocultural changes. Acknowledging that the built environment expresses the beliefs, cultures, and social backgrounds of inhabitants, we aim to illustrate their ways of living through case studies of two marginalized communities in the Douar El-Garaa shantytown in Rabat and a social housing complex in the suburbs of Casablanca. Our findings identify socio-spatial appropriation and adaptation practices that are rooted in sociocultural habits codified by Islamic customs and other Moroccan cultural norms.
Narratives of Mediterranean migrants in Italian cinema: The camera angle and close-up in Terraferma and Fuocoammare
Authors: Baracco Alberto
Published: January 2024

Over the last two decades, Italian cinema has turned its gaze towards the Mediterranean Sea to dismantle the narratives constructed by populist political parties and mainstream European media, which have emphasized the rhetoric of border protection, security and legality through the systematic depersonalization of migrants. Film counter-narratives to this have been effectively developed, and cinema has responded to the materiality and fixity of migrants’ bodies by composing stories in which these migrants recover their sociopolitical agency. This article provides a close analysis of the characterization in Emanuele Crialese’s Terraferma (2011) and Gianfranco Rosi’s Fuocoammare (Fire at Sea) (2016) in relation to technical and stylistic forms of filmic representation. Particular attention is paid to the correlation between the aesthetic level of the films and the social dimension of the characters, which is primarily expressed through framing in which the migrant occupies the central position, establishing a dialectical relationship with the other characters and their social space.
Fishing new lives and minds in Italian and Maltese cinema: Tornando a casa and Simshar
Authors: Nicosia Aldo
Published: January 2024

The issues facing migrants and fishermen are at the core of Vincenzo Marra’s Tornando a casa (Sailing Home) (2002) (Italy) and Rebecca Cremona’s Simshar (2014) (Malta). Both films are shot primarily in the southern Mediterranean Sea and, although they feature similar life dramas and hazardous rescues, they are directed according to different aesthetic principles. While Simshar exhibits the highly emotional tones of a tragedy and a predictable ending, Sailing Home uses a prosaic style and offers a ground-breaking denouement. Inspired by a true story, Cremona’s film helps reinforce concepts of ‘Malteseness’ while Marra’s negotiates identity concerns, regardless of the protagonist’s nationality. The Mediterranean Sea thus becomes the backdrop to unpredictable encounters that allow the promise of new friendships and can even change human destiny. The objective of this article is to draw out an iconographic and thematic comparison between these two films, arguing that they provide deep insight into current tragedies in a documentary-like, yet highly artistic way.
Sindrom Nefrotik Idiopatik Resisten Steroid pada Anak: Telaah Perbandingan Panduan Klinis
Authors: Trihono Partini Pudjiastuti , Fahlevi Reza , Kinesya Edwin , Hidayati Eka Laksmi , Puspitasari Henny Adriani , Pardede Sudung Oloan
Published: January 2024

Latar belakang. Sindrom nefrotik idiopatik merupakan penyakit ginjal tersering pada anak di dunia. Penelitian terkait sindrom nefrotik idiopatik pada anak terus berkembang. Namun, pada praktiknya masih terdapat variasi yang lebar terkait evaluasi dan tata laksana sindrom nefrotik idiopatik pada anak di dunia. Tujuan. Membandingkan panduan klinis sindrom nefrotik idiopatik sensitif steroid pada anak. Metode. Membandingkan empat panduan klinis sindrom nefrotik idiopatik sensitif steroid pada anak, yaitu panduan klinis sindrom nefrotik idiopatik Ikatan Dokter Anak Indonesia tahun 2012, Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcome tahun 2021, International Pediatric Nephrology Association tahun 2022, dan Indian Society of Pediatric Nephrology tahun 2021. Dikembangkan 7 lingkup bahasan kajian, meliputi diagnosis, pemeriksaan penunjang awal, batasan kriteria, dan terapi sindrom nefrotik inisial, sindrom nefrotik relaps jarang, sindrom nefrotik relaps sering dan sindrom nefrotik dependen steroid.Hasil. Didapatkan beberapa perbedaan mendasar yang ditemukan, antara lain, terkait batasan proteinuria dan hipoalbuminemia yang digunakan, dosis maksimal steroid, definisi relaps sering, pilihan terapi imunosupresan pada SN relaps sering, dependen steroid, dan pemeriksaan genetik yang dirasonalisasikan berdasarkan bukti-bukti penelitian terbaru.Kesimpulan. Terdapat beberapa perbedaan mendasar antara panduan klinis sindrom nefrotik idiopatik Ikatan Dokter Anak Indonesia tahun 2012 dengan panduan klinis terbaru lainnya. Perlu dipertimbangkan pembaharuan konsensus sindrom nefrotik di Indonesia dengan menelaah bukti ilmiah terbaru dan disesuaikan dengan ketersediaan obat serta fasilitas pemeriksaan di Indonesia.