bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bases teóricas e reflexões preliminares sobre democracia e gestão educacional
Authors: Campos Vanilda Maria , Moreira de Souza José Carlos , Aguiar Roselina , Alves Vieira Andreza , Rodrigues dos Santos Letícia
Published: August 2023

Este artigo visa apresentar uma revisão do modelo democrático de gestão utilizado na educação, abordando suas relações na formação humana. A investigação proposta teve como objetivo geral investigar as principais características do modelo democrático de gestão e suas implicações para o processo pedagógico na formação do ser humano, com foco na gestão e organização educacional, utilizando como exemplo a Educação Profissional e Tecnológica. Metodologicamente, este ensaio se caracteriza como uma pesquisa de revisão bibliográfica, com abordagem qualitativa de caráter descritivo reflexiva, baseada em autores como Ana (2018), Bastos (2012), Libâneo (2015) e Saviani (2012). São abordados os desdobramentos históricos, sociais e legais para a efetivação da gestão democrática no contexto educacional. A partir desses levantamentos foi possível evidenciar que a gestão das escolas democráticas inclui atores sociais ativos, tais como gestores, docentes, estudantes, pais e comunidade local; englobando conjuntamente discussões políticas, culturais e econômicas. Pode-se compreender que as decisões ou encaminhamentos relativos à educação devem ser abrangentes, com ciência legal da responsabilidade compartilhada entre os entes federativos (união, estados e municípios), não devendo estas serem restringidas a poucas pessoas. Por meio da pesquisa tornou-se evidente o papel fundamental da liderança pedagógica para a gestão escolar democrática, de modo que esta possa influenciar positivamente o desempenho escolar e garantir uma gestão administrativa eficaz para a realização de um bom trabalho acadêmico nas várias dimensões da educação. Conclui-se que a consolidação de mecanismos de participação democráticos, visando o benefício do desenvolvimento social e coletivo, torna-se essencial para uma gestão educacional democrática eficaz.
Brachytherapy of rectal cancer: comparative characteristics of techniques (review)
Authors: Novikov Roman V. , Novikov Sergey N.
Published: August 2023

Analysis of the literature indicates the absence of domestic publications on the role of brachytherapy in patients with rectal cancer (RC). The aim of the presented work was to fill this gap and systematize the available information on various aspects of the clinical application of the two main variants for RC brachytherapy.
RETRACTED: Experimental and theoretical investigations of Erbium complex: DNA/BSA interaction, anticancer and antibacterial studies
Authors: Thanoon Raid D. , Ibadi Emam Atiyah , Ahmad Irfan , Alamir Hassan Thoulfikar A. , Alwan Marim , Hashim Furqan S. , Khaled Donia Waleed , Alkhafaji Adnan Taan , Asiri Mohammed , Alsaalamy Ali
Published: August 2023

To assess the biological potential of an Er complex that contains a 2,2'-bipyridine ligand, various techniques such as multispectral and molecular modeling procedures were utilized to examine its DNA-binding ability, BSA binding affinity, antimicrobial effects, and anticancer properties. By analyzing fluorescent information and employing the vant’ Hoff equation, important parameters such as the innate docking coefficient (Kb), Stern-Volmer coefficient (KSV), and thermodynamic properties including modifications in liberated energy (ΔG°), enthalpy (∆H°), and entropy (∆S°) were determined. The trial findings suggest that the compound can bind to DNA, primarily through groove binding. Additionally, the engagement between the Er compound and the protein BSA was examined using emission spectroscopy technique, revealing a powerful binding affinity between the compound and BSA. The Er complex binds to BSA primarily via hydrogen links and van der Waals forces, as indicated by the adverse values of ΔH° and ∆S°. Through a static quenching process, the complex significantly reduces the intrinsic fluorescence of BSA. Molecular binding calculations and rivalrous binding trials confirm that this compound dock to hydrophobic remains found in site III of BSA. Additionally, the Er complex demonstrates promising results in terms of its anticancer and antimicrobial activities based on screening tests.
A time-space window between Eocene karst bauxite genesis and the first molasse deposition in the Dinaric Foreland Basin in the North Dalmatia, Croatia
Authors: Brčić Vlatko , Dunkl István , Mindszenty Andrea , Brlek Mihovil , Trinajstić Nina , Bajo Petra , Bauluz Blanca , Mišur Ivan , Karius Volker , Šuica Sanja , Kukoč Duje , Yuste Alfonso , Laita Elisa , Von Eynatten Hilmar , Zeh Armin
Published: August 2023

Karst bauxite deposits in the North Dalmatian piggyback basin (NDPGB) are a part of the Mediterranean bauxite belt, which is the largest European bauxite deposit zone; however, there is a general lack of information regarding the genesis, age, and precursor of the bauxite deposits in this region. In this study, we combined detrital zircon U–Pb geochronology with compositional, mineralogical, and morphological data from four bauxite locations in the NDPGB to provide a new palaeogeographical and palaeoenvironmental evolution model for the Lutetian–Rupelian timeframe of the NDPGB. The Eocene climatic conditions began with the Palaeocene–Eocene Thermal Maximum event (∼56 Ma), followed by the Early Eocene Climatic Optimum (∼49 Ma) and Middle Eocene Climatic Optimum (∼40 Ma), and were completed as a cooling trend culminating around the Eocene/Oligocene boundary (∼34 Ma), with a shift towards an icehouse climate. These events were coeval with the continuous drift of the African continent towards Eurasia and the subsequent closure of the western part of the former Neo-Tethys Ocean associated with massive volcanic activity. Based on the bauxite deposits of the NDPGB, Early Eocene limestones formed in the last phase of the long-lasting Adriatic Carbonate Platform. The Middle Eocene orogenic activity resulted in an elevation in this area. High average temperatures, accelerated hydrological cycles and precipitation, and intensive continental weathering with increased volcanic carbon input resulted in favourable conditions for the development of karst bauxites at this time. Further Upper Eocene tectonic deformation of the NDPGB area resulted in the development of bauxite traps and enabled redeposition of the initial bauxite material. Subsequently, the bauxite deposits were covered with clastic carbonate molasse derived from the intensive erosion of the young Dinaric orogeny. The implications of this study are as follows. First, it provides new information on the timing of bauxitisation in the area by providing the first radiometric zircon geochronology, which refined and restricted the time window for bauxite formation in this region. Additionally, our results provide a new perspective on the possibility of aeolian precursors in karst bauxite formation and provide new constraints on the first tectonic marks of the initial Dinaric orogeny.
Adaptation and validation of the research task distractor scale in Peruvian university students
Authors: Mamani-Benito Oscar , Zurita Jhoanna Marilú Llaguento , Vásquez Olga Lidia García , Guerrero Fiorella Sadith Castañeda , Morales-García Wilter C. , Chaparro Josué Turpo
Published: August 2023

Unconventional distractions such as electronic devices are stimuli that divert attention during study tasks, especially those related to scientific research exercises in undergraduate education. In the absence of precise instruments to measure this phenomenon, the objective was to adapt and validate the Scale of Distractions in Research Tasks among Peruvian university students. The study is classified as an instrumental cross-sectional design, involving 1,003 university students aged between 18 and 47 years (M = 20.93, SD = 4.30) from three regions of Peru (Coast, Highlands, and Jungle), selected through convenience sampling. Content validity was assessed using Aiken’s V coefficient, internal structure was examined through confirmatory factor analysis, and reliability was measured using the Omega coefficient. The results indicated that the judges positively evaluated the 5 items (V > 0.70), the internal structure confirmed the original model with satisfactory fit indices (χ2 (2) = 5.47, p = 0.187, CFI = 0.998, RMSEA = 0.023, and SRMR = 0.010), and the reliability was acceptable (ω = 0.86). In conclusion, the Peruvian version of the Scale of Distractions in Research Tasks has demonstrated to be a valid and reliable instrument, characterized by its brevity and a unifactorial structure.
Protective effects of exogenous melatonin therapy against oxidative stress to male reproductive tissue caused by anti-cancer chemical and radiation therapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis of animal studies
Authors: Dehdari Ebrahimi Niloofar , Sadeghi Alireza , Shojaei-Zarghani Sara , Shahlaee Mohammad Amin , Taherifard Erfan , Rahimian Zahra , Eghlidos Zahra , Azarpira Negar , Safarpour Ali Reza
Published: August 2023

Background

Male testicular dysfunction is a considerable complication of anti-cancer therapies, including chemotherapy and radiotherapy, partly due to the increased oxidative stress caused by these treatments. Melatonin is an effective antioxidant agent that protects testicles against physical and toxic chemical stressors in animal models. This study aims to systematically review the melatonin’s protective effects against anti-cancer stressors on rodential testicular tissue.

Materials and Method

An extensive search was conducted in Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed for animal studies investigating exogenous melatonin’s protective effects on rodent testicles exposed to anti-cancer chemicals and radiotherapeutic agents. Using the DerSimonian and Laird random-effect model, standardized mean differences and 95% confidence intervals were estimated from the pooled data. The protocol was prospectively registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO: CRD42022355293).

Results

The meta-analysis included 38 studies from 43 studies that were eligible for the review. Rats and mice were exposed to radiotherapy (ionizing radiations such as gamma- and roentgen radiation and radioactive iodine) or chemotherapy (methotrexate, paclitaxel, busulfan, cisplatin, doxorubicin, vinblastine, bleomycin, cyclophosphamide, etoposide, Taxol, procarbazine, docetaxel, and chlorambucil). According to our meta-analysis, all outcomes were significantly improved by melatonin therapy, including sperm quantity and quality (count, motility, viability, normal morphology, number of spermatogonia, Johnsen’s testicular biopsy score, seminiferous tubular diameter, and seminiferous epithelial height), serum level of reproductive hormones (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone and testosterone), tissue markers of oxidative stress (testicular tissue malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, glutathione, caspase-3, and total antioxidant capacity), and weight-related characteristics (absolute body, epididymis, testis, and relative testis to body weights). Most SYRCLE domains exhibited a high risk of bias in the included studies. Also, significant heterogeneity and small-study effects were detected.

Conclusion

In male rodents, melatonin therapy was related to improved testicular histopathology, reproductive hormones, testis and body weights, and reduced levels of oxidative markers in testicular tissues of male rodents. Future meticulous studies are recommended to provide a robust scientific backbone for human applications.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42022355293, identifier CRD42022355293.
The effect of forskolin and the role of Epac2A during activation, activity, and deactivation of beta cell networks
Authors: Skelin Klemen Maša , Dolenšek Jurij , Križančić Bombek Lidija , Pohorec Viljem , Gosak Marko , Slak Rupnik Marjan , Stožer Andraž
Published: August 2023

Beta cells couple stimulation by glucose with insulin secretion and impairments in this coupling play a central role in diabetes mellitus. Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) amplifies stimulus-secretion coupling via protein kinase A and guanine nucleotide exchange protein 2 (Epac2A). With the present research, we aimed to clarify the influence of cAMP-elevating diterpene forskolin on cytoplasmic calcium dynamics and intercellular network activity, which are two of the crucial elements of normal beta cell stimulus-secretion coupling, and the role of Epac2A under normal and stimulated conditions. To this end, we performed functional multicellular calcium imaging of beta cells in mouse pancreas tissue slices after stimulation with glucose and forskolin in wild-type and Epac2A knock-out mice. Forskolin evoked calcium signals in otherwise substimulatory glucose and beta cells from Epac2A knock-out mice displayed a faster activation. During the plateau phase, beta cells from Epac2A knock-out mice displayed a slightly higher active time in response to glucose compared with wild-type littermates, and stimulation with forskolin increased the active time via an increase in oscillation frequency and a decrease in oscillation duration in both Epac2A knock-out and wild-type mice. Functional network properties during stimulation with glucose did not differ in Epac2A knock-out mice, but the presence of Epac2A was crucial for the protective effect of stimulation with forskolin in preventing a decline in beta cell functional connectivity with time. Finally, stimulation with forskolin prolonged beta cell activity during deactivation, especially in Epac2A knock-out mice.
Trends in metabolic dysfunction in polycystic ovary syndrome: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Xu Yan , Cao Zhiqun , Chen Ting , Ren Jian
Published: August 2023

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a very common chronic disease and causes reproductive disorders in women of childbearing age worldwide. The cause of metabolic dysfunction in PCOS is unknown, and there is a lack of systematic bibliometric analysis for this disease. This study included 3,972 articles on metabolic dysfunction in PCOS published from 2012 to 2021. We applied the VOSviewer and the CiteSpace scientometric analysis software to analyze the data regarding the publication of the articles, countries, authors, institutions, scientific categories, cited journals, and keywords. Through this analysis, we determined the research efforts and their developing trends and anticipated the progress in understanding PCOS-related metabolic dysfunction.
Changes in the bacterial and microeukaryotic communities in the bioreactor upon increasing heavy metal concentrations
Authors: Aceves-Suriano Claudia E. , Montoya-Ciriaco Nina , Hernández-Guzmán Mario , Hernández-Martínez Gabriel R. , Navarro-Noya Yendi E. , Thalasso Frédéric , Dendooven Luc
Published: August 2023

Heavy metals are necessary at low concentration for biological activity, but they are often toxic for microorganisms at high concentrations. Amplicon sequencing of 16S rRNA and 18S rRNA was used to investigate changes in the bacterial and microeukaryotic communities in an activated sludge bioreactor incrementally contaminated with nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) with an IC50 value ranging from 0% to 100%, as previously determined, while an uncontaminated bioreactor served as a control. The chemical oxygen demand (COD) was on average 90% in the uncontaminated bioreactor but dropped to 49% when the heavy metal concentration was 100% IC50. The bacterial community in the uncontaminated bioreactor was dominated by Alphaproteobacteria (mostly Agrobacterium and Brevundimonas) when the heavy metal concentrations were low and Bacteroidetes (mostly Sphingobacterium) when the highest amounts of heavy metal concentrations were applied. The members of Ciliophora, Ascomycota, and Basidiomycota alternatively dominated in the uncontaminated bioreactor, while Ascomycota (mostly Fusarium) dominated in the contaminated bioreactor. The results revealed that increased concentrations of Ni, Cu, and Zn altered the bacterial and microeukaryotic communities and some putative metabolic functions.
Evaluating the performance of the twin tunnel complex in soft soil subjected to horizontal ground shaking
Authors: Naseem Ahsan , Ansari Wajahat Sammer , Kashif Muhammad , Sadiq Shamsher , Schotte Ken , De Backer Hans
Published: August 2023

Tunnel construction in soft soil necessitates a thorough evaluation of soil behavior, embedment depth, ground heaves, and tunnel distortions, especially in earthquake-prone areas. This study presents a numerical parametric investigation of an unconventional tunnel complex formed by combining the closely located twin tunnels. The complex is subjected to varying horizontal ground vibrations, and the influence of lining thickness, embedment depth, and interface conditions on seismic-induced thrusts, shear forces, bending moments, tunnel distortions, and ground heaves is assessed. The applicability of analytical solutions from existing literature for singular tunnels is examined through detailed analyses of different embedment ratios. The study reveals that increased tunnel flexural rigidity leads to higher seismic-induced bending moments in the tunnel complex. Comparison of full-slip and no-slip interface conditions shows that the former exhibits reduced overall tunnel distortions. Furthermore, a comparison is made with a conventional-shaped rectangular tunnel complex. The results indicate that the twin tunnel complex behaves more rigidly under a constant embedment ratio and input motion amplitude. It also results in lower ground heaves and suffers lesser induced lining forces during seismic events, making it a superior performer in comparison. Overall, this research provides valuable insights into the behavior of twin tunnel complexes in soft soil under seismic conditions, showcasing their advantages over conventional shaped tunnels in terms of tunnel distortions, ground heaves, and overall structural response.
Assessing the limiting factors of natural regeneration in Mediterranean planted hedgerows
Authors: García de León David , Rey Benayas José M. , Villar-Salvador Pedro
Published: August 2023

Conservation and restoration of hedgerows promote biodiversity and multi-functionality in agricultural landscapes. However, in Mediterranean environments, natural regeneration of hedgerows is often poor, and factors hindering the establishment and growth of hedgerow woody species remain unclear. This study aimed to address this gap by (1) quantifying natural regeneration, including seedling establishment and resprouting of planted hedgerow species and the establishment of woody species coming from outside the hedgerows; and (2) experimentally assessing the impact of drought, herbivory, and herb competition on seedling establishment. We selected 12 planted, 11–13-year-old hedgerows in four sites in Central Spain to sample their natural regeneration. In addition, we transplanted 1,356 seedlings of Colutea arborescens L., Crataegus monogyna Jacq. and Rhamnus alaternus L. to two field sites under three treatments that were applied factorially for two years: irrigation to alleviate summer drought, protection against herbivory, and herb clipping to reduce competition with transplanted seedlings. We found that only 66 juveniles of woody species, including 29 of species that were not planted in the hedgerows, developed from seed germination, and 316 sprouts recruited spontaneously along 10 years (14 individuals ha−1 year−1). Of the transplanted seedlings, only 22% survived after two years with protection against herbivory strongly enhancing seedling survival. To a lesser extent, irrigation and herb competition affected survival through interactions with herbivory and species identity. Irrigation and protection against herbivores accelerated seedling growth. Survival and growth of C. arborescens (14%; seedling height = 12 ± 9 cm) were lower than those of C. monogyna (41%; 21 ± 11 cm) and R. alaternus (17%; 13 ± 8 cm). We conclude that natural regeneration in Mediterranean planted hedgerows is low, herbivory is the main limiting factor for seedling survival, especially for deciduous species, and summer drought and herb competition mostly limit growth. These findings have important implications for the conservation and restoration of hedgerows in Mediterranean environments.
Divergent CD4+ T-cell profiles are associated with anti-HLA alloimmunization status in platelet-transfused AML patients
Authors: Khelfa Mehdi , Leclerc Mathieu , Kerbrat Stéphane , Boudjemai Yakout Nait Sidenas , Benchouaia Médine , Neyrinck-Leglantier Déborah , Cagnet Léonie , Berradhia Lylia , Tamagne Marie , Croisille Laure , Pirenne France , Maury Sébastien , Vingert Benoît
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is one of the commonest hematologic disorders. Due to the high frequency of disease- or treatment-related thrombocytopenia, AML requires treatment with multiple platelet transfusions, which can trigger a humoral response directed against platelets. Some, but not all, AML patients develop an anti-HLA immune response after multiple transfusions. We therefore hypothesized that different immune activation profiles might be associated with anti-HLA alloimmunization status.

Methods

We tested this hypothesis, by analyzing CD4+ T lymphocyte (TL) subsets and their immune control molecules in flow cytometry and single-cell multi-omics.

Results

A comparison of immunological status between anti-HLA alloimmunized and non-alloimmunized AML patients identified differences in the phenotype and function of CD4+ TLs. CD4+ TLs from alloimmunized patients displayed features of immune activation, with higher levels of CD40 and OX40 than the cells of healthy donors. However, the most notable differences were observed in non-alloimmunized patients. These patients had lower levels of CD40 and OX40 than alloimmunized patients and higher levels of PD1. Moreover, the Treg compartment of non-alloimmunized patients was larger and more functional than that in alloimmunized patients. These results were supported by a multi-omics analysis of immune response molecules in conventional CD4+ TLs, Tfh circulating cells, and Tregs.

Discussion

Our results thus reveal divergent CD4+ TL characteristics correlated with anti-HLA alloimmunization status in transfused AML patients. These differences, characterizing CD4+ TLs independently of any specific antigen, should be taken into account when considering the immune responses of patients to infections, vaccinations, or transplantations.
Transcriptomic profiling and longitudinal study reveal the relationship of anti-MDA5 titer and type I IFN signature in MDA5+ dermatomyositis
Authors: Wang Yan , Jia Hongxia , Li Wei , Liu Hongping , Tu Meng , Li Jing , Cheng Jiuling , Zhang Guojun
Published: August 2023

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between anti-MDA5 titer and type I IFN signature in patients with MDA5+ DM.

Methods

We explored the transcriptome profiling of PBMCs in MDA5+ DM patients with high-titer of antibody at disease onset or relapse and normal low-titer after treatment and healthy donors. Subsequently, we revealed the dynamic relationship between serum type I IFN scores and antibody titers.

Result

Differentially expressed genes in MDA5+ DM patients were enriched for related pathways and biological functions linked to viruses and cytokines compared to healthy donors. Similar differences remained pooled between the high-titer and low-titer group, and type I-specific interferon response genes showed upregulation in high-titer group. Significant correlations were found between anti-MDA5 titers and type I IFN scores (r = 0.50, P< 0.001). Contemporaneous anti-MDA5 titers revealed to be significantly higher in the group with ultra-high type I IFN scores (vs. high group, P = 0.027; vs. low group, P< 0.001). Longitudinal assessment of type I IFN scores and anti-MDA5 titers, including pre- and post-treatment changes at initial diagnosis and dynamic changes during treatment, presented an asynchrony between the two parameters in response to treatment.

Conclusion

Anti-MDA5 antibody titers correlated with type I IFN signature in patients with MDA5+ DM and they both changed dynamically but not synchronously over the course of treatment.
Platelet status in cancer cachexia progression in ApcMin/+ mice
Authors: Cunningham Patrice , Unger Christian A. , Patton Emma A. , Aiken Akyla , Browne Alea , James Ella , Aladhami Ahmed K. , Hope 3rd Marion C. , VanderVeen Brandon N. , Cardaci Thomas D. , Murphy E. Angela , Enos Reilly T. , Velázquez Kandy T.
Published: August 2023

Cachexia, a complex wasting syndrome, significantly affects the quality of life and treatment options for cancer patients. Studies have reported a strong correlation between high platelet count and decreased survival in cachectic individuals. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the immunopathogenesis of cancer cachexia using the ApcMin/+ mouse model of spontaneous colorectal cancer. The research focused on identifying cellular elements in the blood at different stages of cancer cachexia, assessing inflammatory markers and fibrogenic factors in the skeletal muscle, and studying the behavioral and metabolic phenotype of ApcMin/+ mice at the pre-cachectic and severely cachectic stages. Platelet measurements were also obtained from other animal models of cancer cachexia - Lewis Lung Carcinoma and Colon 26 adenocarcinoma. Our study revealed that platelet number is elevated prior to cachexia development in ApcMin/+ mice and can become activated during its progression. We also observed increased expression of TGFβ2, TGFβ3, and SMAD3 in the skeletal muscle of pre-cachectic ApcMin/+ mice. In severely cachectic mice, we observed an increase in Ly6g, CD206, and IL-10 mRNA. Meanwhile, IL-1β gene expression was elevated in the pre-cachectic stage. Our behavioral and metabolic phenotyping results indicate that pre-cachectic ApcMin/+ mice exhibit decreased physical activity. Additionally, we found an increase in anemia at pre-cachectic and severely cachectic stages. These findings highlight the altered platelet status during early and late stages of cachexia and provide a basis for further investigation of platelets in the field of cancer cachexia.
Applying a logistic growth equation to model flocculation of sediment in the presence of living and dead organic matter
Authors: Safar Zeinab , Deng Zhirui , Chassagne Claire
Published: August 2023

In the present study, we aim to parameterize a flocculation model, based on a logistic growth equation, by conducting laboratory experiments. The flocculation experiments are performed using two types of natural sediments and different flocculating agents: salt (monovalent and divalent), extracellular polymeric substances, and living and dead microalgae Skeletonema costatum. It was found that the median size of flocs (D50) did not exceed the Kolmogorov microscale when salt-induced flocculation was performed (in the absence of organic matter), which is in line with previous studies. Flocs with organic matter reach sizes that are larger than the Kolmogorov microscale, and both their growth and steady-state size are salinity-dependent. In particular, divalent salts are shown to promote flocculation of sediment to organic matter. The logistic growth model can be used to study either the evolution of a class volume concentration as function of time or the change in size of a given class as function of time. The fine particle volume concentration decreases in time, whereas the coarse particle volume concentration increases, during the flocculation process. The mass balance between the two classes as defined by Chassagne and Safar (Modelling flocculation: Towards an integration in large-scale sediment transport models. Marine Geology. 2020 Dec 1;430:106361) is estimated.
Simulated video-based telehealth training for emergency physicians
Authors: Hayden Emily M. , Nash Christopher J. , Farrell Susan E.
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Little exists in the literature describing video-based telehealth training, especially for practicing Emergency Physicians.

Materials and methods

This was a retrospective, pre- and post-assessment of physicians’ knowledge and confidence on video-based telehealth after two simulated telehealth encounters. Attending physicians voluntarily participated in Zoom-based trainings and received feedback from the patient actors immediately after each simulation. Post-experience surveys queried participants on the training, aspects of telehealth, and confidence in features of optimal telehealth practice.

Results

The survey had 100% response rate (13/13 physicians). Participants recommended the simulated training experience, mean of 8.38 (SD 1.89; 0 = Not at all likely, 10 = Extremely likely). Pre- and post-response means increased in two questions: “I can describe at least two ways to improve my video-based clinical care”: delta: 1.54, t(12) = 3.83, p = 0.002, Cohen’s d effect size of 1.06, and “I know when video-based telehealth could be helpful in clinical practice”: delta: 0.99, t(12) = 3.09, p = 0.009, Cohen’s d effect size of 0.86.

Conclusion

In this pilot, participants viewed telehealth more favorably after the experience and indicated improved confidence in focused telehealth skills. Further study is needed to determine what simulated case content provides the most value for decision-making via telehealth.
Mechanisms of action and synergetic formulas of plant-based natural compounds from traditional Chinese medicine for managing osteoporosis: a literature review
Authors: Zhou Chengcong , Shen Shuchao , Zhang Muxin , Luo Huan , Zhang Yuliang , Wu Chengliang , Zeng Lingfeng , Ruan Hongfeng
Published: August 2023

Osteoporosis (OP) is a systemic skeletal disease prevalent in older adults, characterized by substantial bone loss and deterioration of microstructure, resulting in heightened bone fragility and risk of fracture. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) herbs have been widely employed in OP treatment owing to their advantages, such as good tolerance, low toxicity, high efficiency, and minimal adverse reactions. Increasing evidence also reveals that many plant-based compounds (or secondary metabolites) from these TCM formulas, such as resveratrol, naringin, and ginsenoside, have demonstrated beneficial effects in reducing the risk of OP. Nonetheless, the comprehensive roles of these natural products in OP have not been thoroughly clarified, impeding the development of synergistic formulas for optimal OP treatment. In this review, we sum up the pathological mechanisms of OP based on evidence from basic and clinical research; emphasis is placed on the in vitro and preclinical in vivo evidence-based anti-OP mechanisms of TCM formulas and their chemically active plant constituents, especially their effects on imbalanced bone homeostasis regulated by osteoblasts (responsible for bone formation), osteoclasts (responsible for bone resorption), bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells as well as bone microstructure, angiogenesis, and immune system. Furthermore, we prospectively discuss the combinatory ingredients from natural products from these TCM formulas. Our goal is to improve comprehension of the pharmacological mechanisms of TCM formulas and their chemically active constituents, which could inform the development of new strategies for managing OP.
Identification and characterization of a novel chromosomal aminoglycoside 3’-O-phosphotransferase, APH(3′)-Id, from Kluyvera intermedia DW18 isolated from the sewage of an animal farm
Authors: Sha Yuning , Lin Naru , Zhang Guozhi , Zhang Yuan , Zhao Jingxuan , Lu Junwan , Zhu Tingting , Zhang Xueya , Li Qiaoling , Zhang Hailin , Lin Xi , Li Kewei , Bao Qiyu , Li Dong
Published: August 2023

Background

Aminoglycosides, as important clinical antimicrobials, are used as second-line drugs for treating multidrug-resistant tuberculosis or combined with β-lactam drugs for treating severe infections such as sepsis. Aminoglycoside-modifying enzyme (AME) is the most important mechanism of aminoglycoside resistance and deserves more attention.

Methods

The bacterium Kluyvera intermedia DW18 was isolated from the sewage of an animal farm using the conventional method. The agar dilution method was used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of antimicrobials. A novel resistance gene was cloned, and the enzyme was expressed. The kinetic parameters were measured by a SpectraMax M5 multifunctional microplate reader. Bioinformatic analysis was performed to reveal the genetic context of the aph(3′)-Id gene and its phylogenetic relationship with other AMEs.

Results

A novel aminoglycoside 3′-O-phosphotransferase gene designated aph(3′)-Id was identified in K. intermedia DW18 and shared the highest amino acid identity of 77.49% with the functionally characterized aminoglycoside 3′-O-phosphotransferase APH(3′)-Ia. The recombinant plasmid carrying the novel resistance gene (pMD19-aph(3′)-Id/E. coli DH5α) showed 1,024-, 512-, 128- and 16-fold increased MIC levels for kanamycin, ribostamycin, paromomycin and neomycin, respectively, compared with the reference strain DH5α. APH(3′)-Id showed the highest catalytic efficiency for ribostamycin [kcat/Km of (4.96 ± 1.63) × 105 M−1/s−1], followed by paromomycin [kcat/Km of (2.18 ± 0.21) × 105 M−1/s−1], neomycin [kcat/Km of (1.73 ± 0.20) × 105 M−1/s−1], and kanamycin [kcat/Km of (1.10 ± 0.18) × 105 M−1/s−1]. Three conserved functional domains of the aminoglycoside phosphotransferase family and ten amino acid residues responsible for the phosphorylation of kanamycin were found in the amino acid sequence of APH(3′)-Id. No mobile genetic element (MGE) was discovered surrounding the aph(3′)-Id gene.

Conclusion

In this work, a novel aminoglycoside 3’-O-phosphotransferase gene designated aph(3′)-Id encoded in the chromosome of the environmental isolate Kluyvera intermedia DW18 was identified and characterized. These findings will help clinicians select effective antimicrobials to treat infections caused by pathogens with this kind of resistance gene.
Evaluation of electroacupuncture as a non-pharmacological therapy for astrocytic structural aberrations and behavioral deficits in a post-ischemic depression model in mice
Authors: Wang Jingwen , Deng Xin , Jiang Jin , Yao Zhengyu , Ju Yaxin , Luo Yong
Published: August 2023

Background

Ascending clinical evidence supports that electroacupuncture (EA) is effective in treating post-ischemic depression (PID), but little is known about how it works at the cellular level. Astrocytes are exquisitely sensitive to their extracellular environment, and under stressful conditions, they may experience aberrant structural remodeling that can potentially cause neuroplastic disturbances and contribute to subsequent changes in mood or behavior.

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the effect of EA on behavioral deficits associated with PID in mice and verify the hypothesis that astrocytic morphology may be involved in this impact.

Methods

We established a PID animal model induced by transient bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (BCCAO, 20 min) and chronic restraint stress (CRS, 21 days). EA treatment (GV20 + ST36) was performed for 3 weeks, from Monday to Friday each week. Depressive- and anxiety-like behaviors and sociability were evaluated using SPT, FST, EPM, and SIT. Immunohistochemistry combined with Sholl and cell morphological analysis was utilized to assess the process morphology of GFAP+ astrocytes in mood-related regions. The potential relationship between morphological changes in astrocytes and behavioral output was detected by correlation analysis.

Results

Behavioral assays demonstrated that EA treatment induced an overall reduction in behavioral deficits, as measured by the behavioral Z-score. Sholl and morphological analyses revealed that EA prevented the decline in cell complexity of astrocytes in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and the CA1 region of the hippocampus, where astrocytes displayed evident deramification and atrophy of the branches. Eventually, the correlation analysis showed there was a relationship between behavioral emotionality and morphological changes.

Conclusion

Our findings imply that EA prevents both behavioral deficits and structural abnormalities in astrocytes in the PID model. The strong correlation between behavioral Z-scores and the observed morphological changes confirms the notion that the weakening of astrocytic processes may play a crucial role in depressive symptoms, and astrocytes could be a potential target of EA in the treatment of PID.
Developing brain under renewed attack: viral infection during pregnancy
Authors: Recaioglu Hatice , Kolk Sharon M.
Published: August 2023

Living in a globalized world, viral infections such as CHIKV, SARS-COV-2, and ZIKV have become inevitable to also infect the most vulnerable groups in our society. That poses a danger to these populations including pregnant women since the developing brain is sensitive to maternal stressors including viral infections. Upon maternal infection, the viruses can gain access to the fetus via the maternofetal barrier and even to the fetal brain during which factors such as viral receptor expression, time of infection, and the balance between antiviral immune responses and pro-viral mechanisms contribute to mother-to-fetus transmission and fetal infection. Both the direct pro-viral mechanisms and the resulting dysregulated immune response can cause multi-level impairment in the maternofetal and brain barriers and the developing brain itself leading to dysfunction or even loss of several cell populations. Thus, maternal viral infections can disturb brain development and even predispose to neurodevelopmental disorders. In this review, we discuss the potential contribution of maternal viral infections of three relevant relative recent players in the field: Zika, Chikungunya, and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2, to the impairment of brain development throughout the entire route.
A novel FCTF evaluation and prediction model for food efficacy based on association rule mining
Authors: Liu Yaqun , Zhang Zhenxia , Lin Wanling , Liang Hongxuan , Lin Min , Wang Junli , Chen Lianghui , Yang Peikui , Liu Mouquan , Zheng Yuzhong
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Food-components-target-function (FCTF) is an evaluation and prediction model based on association rule mining (ARM) and network interaction analysis, which is an innovative exploration of interdisciplinary integration in the food field.

Methods

Using the components as the basis, the targets and functions are comprehensively explored in various databases and platforms under the guidance of the ARM concept. The focused active components, key targets and preferred efficacy are then analyzed by different interaction calculations. The FCTF model is particularly suitable for preliminary studies of medicinal plants in remote and poor areas.

Results

The FCTF model of the local medicinal food Laoxianghuang focuses on the efficacy of digestive system cancers and neurological diseases, with key targets ACE, PTGS2, CYP2C19 and corresponding active components citronellal, trans-nerolidol, linalool, geraniol, α-terpineol, cadinene and α-pinene.

Discussion

Centuries of traditional experience point to the efficacy of Laoxianghuang in alleviating digestive disorders, and our established FCTF model of Laoxianghuang not only demonstrates this but also extends to its possible adjunctive efficacy in neurological diseases, which deserves later exploration. The FCTF model is based on the main line of components to target and efficacy and optimizes the research level from different dimensions and aspects of interaction analysis, hoping to make some contribution to the future development of the food discipline.
Establishment of a primary renal lymphoma model and its clinical relevance
Authors: Li Xiaoxi , Deng Minyao , Zhang Chenxiao , Luo Lingli , Qian Hui
Published: August 2023

Extranodal dissemination is an important feature of aggressive B-cell lymphoma. Owing to the lack of available animal models, the study on extranodal dissemination of lymphoma is greatly limited. Here, we identified a novel cell line, named MA-K, which originated from the Eμ-Myc;Cdkn2a−/− cell line, named MA-LN in this study. Compared to MA-LN, MA-K tended to disseminate in the kidney rather than the lymph nodes in the lymphoma transplantation model, resembling human primary renal lymphoma. The transcriptome analysis revealed that MA-K had undergone transcriptional evolution during the culture. The specialized transcriptional pattern analysis we proposed in this study identified that the FOXO1-BTG1-MYD88 pattern was formed in MA-K. Further analysis found that the translation pathway was the most enriched pathway in specially expressed genes (SEGs) in MA-K. Among the SEGs, three upregulated genes, RPLP2, RPS16, and MRPS16, and five downregulated genes, SSPN, CD52, ANKRD37, CCDC82, and VPREB3, in MA-K were identified as promising biomarkers to predict the clinical outcomes of human DLBCL. Moreover, the joint expression of the five-gene signature could effectively predict clinical outcomes of human DLBCL in three groups. These findings suggested that the MA-K cell line had strong clinical relevance with human aggressive B-cell lymphoma. Moreover, the MA-K primary renal lymphoma model, as a novel syngenetic mouse model, will be greatly useful for both basic research on lymphoma dissemination and preclinical efficacy evaluation of chemotherapy and immunotherapy.
Inhomogeneously distributed ferroptosis with a high peak-to-valley ratio may improve the antitumor immune response
Authors: Chi Mau-Shin , Tien Der-Chi , Chi Kwan-Hwa
Published: August 2023

Combined radiotherapy (RT) and mild hyperthermia have been used clinically for decades to increase local control. Both modalities tend to achieve a homogeneous dose distribution within treatment targets to induce immunogenic cell death. However, marked, and long-lasting abscopal effects have not usually been observed. We proposed a hypothesis to emphasize the importance of the peak-to-valley ratio of the dose distribution inside the tumor to induce immunogenic ferrroptosis in peak area while avoid nonimmunogenic ferroptosis in valley area. Although inhomogeneous distributed energy absorption has been noted in many anticancer medical fields, the idea of sedulously created dose inhomogeneity related to antitumor immunity has not been discussed. To scale up the peak-to-valley ratio, we proposed possible implications by the combination of nanoparticles (NP) with conventional RT or hyperthermia, or the use of a high modulation depth of extremely low frequency hyperthermia or high resolution spatially fractionated radiotherapy (SFRT) to enhance the antitumor immune reactions.
Fifty years of BMT: risk stratification, donor matching, and stem cell collection for transplantation
Authors: Salhotra Amandeep , Yuan Shan , Ali Haris
Published: August 2023

In this review, we discuss recipient risk assessment for allo-HCT regarding comorbidities present at baseline to predict non relapse mortality. We further reviewed the incorporation of remission status and cytogenetic risk prior to allograft transplantation to predict relapse rates for hematologic malignancies. HCT-CI and DRI are tools available to physicians to assess the risk–benefit of allo-HCT in patients referred for transplantation. Next, we discuss our algorithm for donor selection and criteria for donor selection in case matched donors are not available. Finally, we discuss our approach for stem cell mobilization, especially in donors failing G-CSF, and our approach for the use of plerixafor and data supporting its use.
Wedge resection vs. segmentectomy for lung cancer measuring ≤ 2 cm with consolidation tumor ratio > 0.25
Authors: Isaka Tetsuya , Nagashima Takuya , Adachi Hiroyuki , Narimatsu Hiroto , Murakami Kotaro , Shigefuku Shunsuke , Kikunishi Noritake , Shigeta Naoko , Watabe Kozue , Kudo Yujin , Miyata Yoshihiro , Okada Morihito , Ikeda Norihiko , Ito Hiroyuki
Published: August 2023

Objectives

We aimed to clarify the differences in prognosis between wedge resection and segmentectomy performed for cN0 non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) measuring ≤ 2 cm, with consolidation tumor ratio (CTR) > 0.25.

Methods

This multicenter study included 570 patients with cN0 NSCLC (tumor size ≤ 2 cm, CTR > 0.25) who underwent wedge resection (n = 244) and segmentectomy (n = 326) between January 2010 and December 2018. After propensity score matching (PSM, 1:1 method), 182 patients were matched for clinical characteristics (age, sex, laterality, smoking index, tumor size, CTR, carcinoembryonic antigen value, positron-emission tomography-documented maximum standardized uptake value, clinical stage, and tumor disappearance rate) and intergroup comparison of disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). Using Gray’s test, an intergroup comparison of the cumulative incidence of lung cancer-specific mortality was performed.

Results

After PSM, similar DFS (5-year DFS, 79.9% vs. 87.1%, p = 0.103) and OS (5-year OS, 88.7% vs. 88.9%, p = 0.719) rates were observed in the wedge resection and segmentectomy groups. We observed no significant intergroup differences in lung cancer-specific mortality (5-year cumulative incidence: 4.6% vs. 3.5%; p = 0.235). Subgroup analysis revealed no specific subgroup demonstrating improved DFS or OS after undergoing wedge resection or segmentectomy.

Conclusion

DFS, OS, and lung cancer-specific mortality were comparable between wedge resection and segmentectomy of cN0 NSCLC—tumor size ≤ 2 cm and CTR > 0.25. Large-scale prospective clinical trials are warranted to compare the prognoses of wedge resection and segmentectomy for these tumors.
A glimpse of the connection between PPARγ and macrophage
Authors: Yu Lexiang , Gao Yuen , Aaron Nicole , Qiang Li
Published: August 2023

Nuclear receptors are ligand-regulated transcription factors that regulate vast cellular activities and serve as an important class of drug targets. Among them, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are members of the nuclear receptor family and have been extensively studied for their roles in metabolism, differentiation, development, and cancer, among others. Recently, there has been considerable interest in understanding and defining the function of PPARs and their agonists in regulating innate and adaptive immune responses and their pharmacological potential in combating chronic inflammatory diseases. In this review, we focus on emerging evidence for the potential role of PPARγ in macrophage biology, which is the prior innate immune executive in metabolic and tissue homeostasis. We also discuss the role of PPARγ as a regulator of macrophage function in inflammatory diseases. Lastly, we discuss the possible application of PPARγ antagonists in metabolic pathologies.