bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decoding conscience: drawing inspiration from the ethical journey of Thomas More
Authors: Hernandez-Ojeda Jaime , Requena Pablo
Published: November 2024

This article is dedicated to meticulously exploring the intricate facets of Thomas More's conscience, seeking insightful comparisons with the perspectives of his contemporaries. In the pursuit of a comprehensive understanding, the narrative carefully considers the profound teachings concerning synderesis and conscience, with a particular focus on highlighting the interplay between prudence and conscience as perceived by More. Furthermore, the analysis contrasts these foundational ideas with modern interpretations of the concept of conscience. Currently, concerns arise over the suppression of conscience, which can result in the dehumanization of society and present moral hazards. Equating conscience with superficial conviction is seen as a form of bondage, fostering reliance on prevailing opinions. Examining More's ethical journey proves valuable in comprehending the genuine significance of conscience. By delving into More's ethical dilemmas, we understand that objections raised by individuals stem not from whims but from deeply held convictions intricately linked to truth.
THE EFFECT OF DİFFERENT PROCESSİNG METHODS ON AMYGDALİN LEVELS AND SOME PHYSİCOCHEMİCAL PROPERTİES OF APRİCOT KERNELS
Authors: Nalçacı Sultan , Oruç Mucahit , Şamdancı Emine
Published: November 2024

Apricot seeds, particularly bitter seeds, pose health risks due to their cyanogenic glycosides content. Therefore, determining the amount of amygdalin in seeds is important for the food industry. In this study, the amygdalin content of sweet apricot varieties Hacıhaliloğlu and Kabaaşı, as well as bitter apricot (zerdali), was determined using LS-MS/MS devices. Methods to reduce the amygdalin levels in raw apricot seeds to safe consumption limits were established. The treatments to remove bitterness included sodium bicarbonate alkalinization (4-10% NaHCO3 for 7-15 min), ultrasonic waves (30-50°C for 30-60 min), microwave (240W-560W for 2-5 min), and roasting (120-160°C for 10-20 min). After all treatments, samples were analyzed for fat content, protein, amygdalin content via HCN, antioxidant activity, phenolic compounds, and color values (L, a*, b*, Chroma, Hue) using Soxhlet extraction. The fat content (42.99, 44.35, 40.75 ), protein content (34.14, 30.36, 29.27), and hydrocyanic acid content (mg/kg) (24.56, 30.31, 1630.66) of Hacıhaliloğlu, Kabaaşı, and zerdali varieties were found, respectively. Among the methods used to reduce or eliminate the amygdalin content of raw apricot seeds, roasting emerged as the most effective. For raw zerdali seeds, the amygdalin content was 27.64 mg/g, which decreased to 9.77 after 10 min of roasting at 160°C. In terms of total phenolic content, sweet and bitter seeds had similar values. The antioxidant activity (mg TE/100g) was 82.59 for raw zerdali seeds, with the lowest being for sodium bicarbonate (81.72), ultrasonic (57.5), microwave (52.65), and roasting (97.04) treatments.
RİZİKONUN TRAFİK IŞIĞI KURALLARININ İHLALİ SEBEBİYLE GERÇEKLEŞMESİNDE KUSUR VE SİGORTA ETTİRENİN BU İHLALİNİN SİGORTA TAZMİNATININ ÖDENMESİNE ETKİSİ
Authors: Özkan Aktan
Published: November 2024

Sigorta sözleşmesinde teminat altına alınmış bir riziko gerçekleştiğinde, sigortacının sigorta tazminatını ödeme yükümlülüğü doğmaktadır. Ancak bazı durumlarda, rizikonun gerçekleşmesinde sigorta ettirenin kusuru büyük rol oynamaktadır. Bu açıdan sigorta ettirenin trafik ışığı kurallarını ihlal ederek rizikoya sebebiyet vermesi, sigorta hukukunda ezelden beridir tartışma konusu olan bir durumdur. Gerek yargı kararlarında gerekse de doktrinde, bu ihlal türü özellikle kusurun derecelendirilmesi yönünden tartışılmıştır.
Bu çalışmada öncelikle trafik ışığı kurallarını ihlal halinde failin kusurunun derecesine ilişkin doktrindeki görüşler ve mahkeme kararları derlenmiştir. Ardından trafik ışığı kurallarını ihlalin çeşitli görünüş biçimleri tasnife tabi tutulmuş ve bu çeşitli görünüş türleri, özellikle kusurun derecelendirilmesi yönünden değerlendirilmiştir. Yine kusurun nitelendirilmesine yönelik uygulamadaki terminoloji farklılıklarına değinilmiştir.
Sigorta hukuku bağlamında trafik ışığı kurallarını ihlalin kusur yönünden değerlendirilmesi yapıldıktan sonra, sigorta ettirenin bu çerçevedeki bir ihlalinin sigorta tazminatının ödenmesi üzerine bir etkisi olup olmadığı irdelenmiştir. Gerçekten de TTK m.1429 göz önüne alındığında, trafik ışığı kurallarının ihlal edilip trafik kazasına sebebiyet verilmesi, sigorta ettirenin kusurunun derecesine göre, kasko sigortası tazminatının veya zorunlu mali mesuliyet (trafik) sigortası tazminatının ödenmesinde farklı hukuki sonuçlar doğurmaktadır.
İŞVERENİN İŞ KAZASINDAN DOĞAN HUKUKİ SORUMLULUĞUNUN İŞYERİ DEVRİ AÇISINDAN SONUÇLARI
Authors: Demir Kübra , Karaç Serkan Taylan
Published: November 2024

İş sözleşmesinin tarafları açısından pek çok sonuç doğuran hukukî işlemlerden birisi de işyeri devridir. İşyerinin devri ile kural olarak devir tarihinde işyerinde bulunan tüm iş sözleşmeleri devralan işverene geçer. Devirle beraber devralan işveren yalnızca iş sözleşmesinin tarafı haline gelmez. Devralan aynı zamanda iş ilişkisi kapsamındaki haklar ve borçlar ile tüm çalışma şartlarını da üstlenmiş olur. İşyerinin devredilmesinden önceki bir tarihte meydana gelen iş kazası varsa kazanın hukukî sorumluluk sonuçları açısından devralan işverenin ne ölçüde sorumlu tutulması gerektiği belirlenmelidir. Ayrıca devreden işveren açısından öngörülen devir tarihinden itibaren iki yıl süre ile sınırlı sorumluluğun iş kazasından doğan tazminat talepleri açısından geçerli olup olmayacağının incelenmesi gerekir.
ALMAN HUKUKUYLA KARŞILAŞTIRMALI OLARAK KÜÇÜKLERİN EVLAT EDİNİLMESİNDE BİYOLOJİK BABANIN RIZASI VE SAHİP OLDUĞU HAKLAR
Authors: Yağcıoğlu Ali Haydar
Published: November 2024

Türk Medeni Kanunu’na (TMK) göre bir küçüğün evlat edinilmesine ana baba rıza göstermelidir. Burada tartışmaya değer konu; evlilik dışı dünyaya gelmiş çocuklar yönünden biyolojik babanın rıza göstermeye yetkili sayılıp sayılmayacağıdır. Bu mesele, TMK’nın ilgili hükmünde açıkça çözüme bağlanmış değildir. Alman Hukukunda, aile hayatına saygı şeklindeki temel insan hakkı ve çocuğun bakımı ve eğitimi şeklindeki anayasal ana baba hakkı çerçevesinde, biyolojik babanın da rızasının alınması gerektiği yönünde eğilim sergilenmekle, Alman Medeni Kanunu’nda onun da izninin alınması yönünde bir değişikliğe gidilmiştir. Ancak bu düzenlemenin, hali hazırda küçüğün hukuki babası bulunup da; biyolojik babanın başka bir erkek olduğu durumlarda geçerli olmaması karşısında, öğretide bu konuda bir yasal değişikliğe ihtiyaç bulunduğu değerlendirmeleri de yapılmaktadır. Bundan başka biyolojik babanın evlat edinme yargılaması sırasında ve sonrasında sahip olduğu haklar da ayrıntılarıyla ortaya konulmaya çalışılmaktadır. Bu çalışma, Alman Hukukunda yürürlükteki düzenlemeleri ve getirilen önerileri de dikkate alarak, evlat edinmede biyolojik babanın rızasıyla ilgili Türk Hukukundaki mevcut kuralları irdelemek, bu kuralları yorumlamak ve ihtiyaç halinde çözüm önerileri sunmak amacını taşımaktadır. Bu amaç doğrultusunda çalışmada, hukukumuzda da biyolojik babanın rızasının aranması gerektiği sonucuna ulaşılmış olup, ayrıca rıza alınmazsa sonuçlarının neler olacağı yönündeki değerlendirmelere de yer verilmiştir.
“5953 SAYILI BASIN MESLEĞİNDE ÇALIŞANLARLA ÇALIŞTIRANLAR ARASINDAKİ MÜNASEBETLERİN TANZİMİ HAKKINDA KANUN” UYARINCA GAZETECİLERİN KIDEM TAZMİNATI
Authors: Elbir Nazlı
Published: November 2024

Gazetecilik mesleğinde bir işverene bağımlı olarak çalışanların, başka bir ifadeyle basın iş sözleşmesiyle çalışan gazetecilerin iş ilişkileri, bu mesleğin icrasının demokratik toplum, ifade ve basın özgürlüğü ile ilişkisi, ayrıca çalışma koşullarının arz ettiği özellikler (bağımlılığın zayıf olması, işin belli bir yerde yapılma zorunluluğu bulunmaması, çalışma saatlerinin değişken olması) gereği, iş mevzuatındaki genel kurallardan ayrı özel düzenlemelere konu edilmiştir. Türk hukukunda bu düzenlemeler özel bir kanunda, 5953 sayılı Basın Mesleğinde Çalışanlarla Çalıştıranlar Arasındaki Münasebetlerin Tanzimi Hakkında Kanun’da yer almaktadır. Anılan kanunda gazeteciler için diğer bireysel iş mevzuatındakinden farklı öngörülmüş bir konu da kıdem tazminatıdır. Kıdem tazminatına ilişkin hükümlerde kıdem süresi hem kavramsal olarak hem de hesaplanması bakımından farklı düzenlenmiştir. Dahası, bu düzenlemedeki tartışmalı bazı hususlar yakın tarihte Anayasa Mahkemesi tarafından iptal edilmiştir. Ayrıca, kıdem tazminatına hak kazanmanın bir diğer koşulu olan iş sözleşmesinin sona ermesi de ilgili kanunda tartışmalı ve açık olmayan biçimde düzenlenmiştir.
YARGI KARARLARI IŞIĞINDA İŞÇİNİN SOSYAL MEDYA PAYLAŞIMI NEDENİYLE İŞ SÖZLEŞMESİNİN İŞVERENCE FESHİNİN KOŞULLARI
Authors: Yiğit Yusuf
Published: November 2024

Sosyal medya kullanımı, günümüz internet teknolojisi ve iletişim araçlarının sunduğu önemli bir imkandır. Bununla birlikte ifade özgürlüğü, özel hayatın gizliliğinin ve kişisel verilerin korunması gibi temel hakların en çok tartışıldığı alanlardan biri haline gelmiştir. Kolaylıkla milyonlara varan kitlelere erişim imkanının varlığı sosyal medya paylaşımlarına önem kazandırmıştır. Belirtilen etki sosyal hayat dışında çalışma hayatı ile de yakından ilişkilidir. Çalışanların kendi özel hayatları dışında iş hayatına ilişkin paylaşımlar yapması, işveren ve yöneticiler hakkında söylemlerde bulunması öğreti görüşleri ve yargı içtihatlarına yansımış ve çalışanın iş görme, sadakat, talimatlara uyma gibi yükümlülüklerinin ihlali konularında tartışmalar doğmasına ve iş sözleşmesinin feshine varan sonuçların ortaya çıkmasına yol açmıştır.
İş sözleşmesinin feshine ilişkin sebepler mevzuatımızda haklı ve geçerli sebepler olarak ayrıma tabi tutulmuştur. Sosyal medya paylaşımını, doğrudan onun içeriğini dikkate alarak ve iş hukukunun ilke ve uygulamaları çerçevesinde fesih için haklı veya geçerli sebep olup olmayacağını değerlendirmek, hatalı sonuçlara götürebilir. Bunun yanında paylaşımın feshe konu olabilmesi için içeriğin işçi tarafından paylaşılıp paylaşılmadığı, kişisel verilerin korunması ve özel hayatın gizliliği gibi temel haklara uygun davranılıp davranılmadığının da içerikle birlikte dikkatle incelenmesi gerekmektedir.
Incidental learning of phonetically (un)motivated tone sandhi patterns by tonal and non-tonal L1 speakers
Authors: Luo Xinbing , Williams John , Post Brechtje
Published: November 2024

This study examines how native Cantonese and English speakers acquire novel tone sandhi rules (i.e., contextually dependent tonal-phonological alternations) after incidental exposure, focusing on three aspects: the impact of prior tonal knowledge, learners’ post-exposure awareness, and the effects of phonetic motivation. We hypothesized that (1) native Cantonese speakers would outperform native English speakers, (2) learners could gain implicit knowledge after exposure, and (3) phonetically motivated tone sandhi rules would be easier to learn than unmotivated ones. To test these hypotheses, native Cantonese and native English speakers were incidentally exposed to pseudo-words featuring the Third-Tone and Half-Third sandhi in a Mandarin dialect. Following exposure, participants were asked to identify the more likely correct pronunciation between tonally licit and illicit options. Structural knowledge attribution was used to assess their awareness. Both tonal and non-tonal L1 speakers acquired tone sandhi knowledge, with the former outperforming the latter, supporting hypothesis (1). Participants gained both implicit and explicit knowledge, partially supporting hypothesis (2). However, phonetic motivation did not significantly affect the learnability of tone sandhi, challenging hypothesis (3). This study is seminal in showing that adults without a tonal L1 can incidentally learn disyllabic tonal-phonological rules, also challenging the notion of substantive bias in L2 phonological learning.
NATIONAL LEGISLATION GOVERNING ACCESSIBILITY TO DRIVING VEHICLES FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
Authors: Gorpyniuk Andrii , Taraban Serhii , Bregida Fedir , Mykhailova Maryna
Published: November 2024

The analysis of normative legal acts and normative documents in the field of ensuring and implementing the rights and guarantees of persons with disabilities was carried out. Areas of improvement of domestic legislation regulat-ing the issue of accessibility to driving vehicles for persons with disabilities have been determined.
National legal acts and normative documents related to the mentioned sphere can be divided hierarchically and by types as follows: Constitution of Ukraine; international treaties of Ukraine (conventions, multilateral and bilateral agreements, protocols); codes of Ukraine; laws of Ukraine; acts of the President of Ukraine (decrees); acts of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine (resolutions, orders); acts of ministries and other central executive bodies (orders); acts of local state admin-istrations and local self-government bodies (orders, orders, decisions); normative documents (international, regional and national standards).
The formation and implementation of state policy regarding persons with disabilities, including in the part related to the issue of their accessibility to driving vehicles, is carried out on the basis of the norms of the Constitution of Ukraine; Con-vention on the rights of persons with disabilities; laws of Ukraine, in particular “On the basics of social protection of the disabled in Ukraine”, “On the rehabilitation of the disabled in Ukraine”, “On social services”; National strategy for creat-ing a barrier-free space in Ukraine for the period until 2030, approved by the order of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine of April 14, 2021 No. 366-р; Action plan for 2023-2024 for the implementation of the National Strategy for the creation of a barrier-free space in Ukraine for the period until 2030, approved by the order of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine of April 25, 2023 No. 372-р; and other legal acts.
Keywords: barrier-free, accessibility, legislation, driving a vehicle, a person with a disability.
The combined signatures of programmed cell death and immune landscape provide a prognostic and therapeutic biomarker in the hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Liu Wanghu , Huang Yan , Xu Yang , Gao Xuanji , Zhao Yifan , Fan Simin , Geng Yuanzhi , Zhu Shajun
Published: November 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) ranks as the fourth most common cause of mortality globally among all cancer types. Programmed cell death (PCD) is a crucial biological mechanism governing cancer progression, tumor expansion, and metastatic dissemination. Furthermore, the tumor microenvironment (TME) is critical in influencing overall survival (OS) and immune responses to immunotherapeutic interventions. From a multi-omics perspective, the combination of PCD and TME could help to predict the survival of HCC patient survival and immunotherapy response. Our study analyzed variations in the PCD- and TME-classifier used in the classification of HCC patients into two subgroups: PCD high-TME low and PCD low-TME high. In the following step, we compared the tumor somatic mutation (TMB), immunotherapy response, and functional annotation of both groups of patients. Lastly, Western Blot (WB) were conducted. The immunohistochemistry (IHC) was performed on the Human Protein Atlas (HPA). In the PCD–TME classifier, 23 PCD-related genes and three immune cell types were identified. Patients’ prognoses and responses to therapy could be accurately predicted using this model. The findings of this study provide a new instrument for the clinical management of HCC patients, and they contribute to the development of accurate treatment strategies for these patients.
Genomic characterization of a blaKPC-2–producing IncM2 plasmid harboring transposon ΔTn6296 in Klebsiella michiganensis
Authors: Song Jian-Mei , Long Hu-Bo , Ye Mei , Yang Bao-Rui , Wu Guang-Juan , He Hong-Chun , Wang Jun-Ling , Li Hong-Wei , Li Xiao-Gang , Deng De-Yao , Li Bo , Yuan Wen-Li
Published: November 2024

Klebsiella michiganensis is an emerging hospital-acquired bacterial pathogen, particularly strains harboring plasmid-mediated carbapenemase genes. Here, we recovered and characterized a multidrug-resistant strain, blaKPC-2–producing Klebsiella michiganensis LS81, which was isolated from the abdominal drainage fluid of a clinical patient in China, and further characterized the co-harboring plasmid. K. michiganensis LS81 tested positive for the blaKPC-2 genes by PCR sequencing, with blaKPC-2 located on a plasmid as confirmed by S1 nuclease pulsed-field gel electrophoresis combined with Southern blotting. In the transconjugants, the blaKPC-2 genes were successfully transferred to the recipient strain E. coli EC600. Whole-genome sequencing and bioinformatics analysis confirmed that this strain belongs to sequence type 196 (ST196), with a complete genome comprising a 5,926,662bp circular chromosome and an 81,451bp IncM2 plasmid encoding blaKPC-2 (designated pLS81-KPC). The IncM2 plasmid carried multiple β-lactamase genes such as blaTEM-1B, blaCTX-M-3, and blaKPC-2 inserted in truncated Tn6296 with the distinctive core structure ISKpn27–blaKPC-2–ISKpn6. A comparison with 46 K. michiganensis genomes available in the NCBI database revealed that the closest phylogenetic relative of K. michiganensis LS81 is a clinical isolate from a wound swab in the United Kingdom. Ultimately, the pan-genomic analysis unveiled a substantial accessory genome within the strain, alongside significant genomic plasticity within the K. michiganensis species, emphasizing the necessity for continuous surveillance of this pathogen in clinical environments.
Effectiveness and safety of hydrogen inhalation therapy as an additional treatment for hypertension in real-world practice: a retrospective, observational study in China
Authors: Ji Hongxiang , Sun Hualin , Zhang Yinghui , Zhao Ziyi , Gao Xin , Wang Chunhe , Yang Yang , Zhang Xiaodong , Gao Jianyong , Man Dequan , Yang Qian , Yang Ying , Yue Chengbin , Chen Changjiang , Ding Xiaoheng , Ni Tongshang
Published: November 2024

Aim

To evaluate the real-life effectiveness and safety of hydrogen inhalation (HI) therapy as an additional treatment in Chinese adults with hypertension.

Methods

This observational, retrospective clinical study included hypertensive patients receiving routine antihypertensives with or without HI initiation from 2018 to 2023. Participants were assigned to the HI group or non-HI group (control group) after propensity score matching. The changes in mean systolic blood pressure (SBP) level during the 24-week follow-up period in different groups were examined primarily. The secondary outcome was the changes in diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and blood pressure (BP) control rate during the study. Several subgroup and sensitivity analyses were performed to confirm the robustness of our main findings. Adverse event (AE) was also assessed in patients of both groups.

Results

In total, we selected 2,364 patients into the analysis. Both mean SBP and DBP levels significantly decreased in the HI group compared to control group at each follow-up visit with the between group difference of −4.63 mm Hg (95% CI, −6.51 to −2.74) at week 8, −6.69 mm Hg (95% CI, −8.54 to −4.85) at week 16, −7.81 mm Hg (95% CI, −9.57 to −6.04) at week 24 for SBP, and −1.83 mm Hg (95% CI, −3.21 to −0.45) at week 8, −2.57 mm Hg (95% CI, −3.97 to −1.17) at week 16, −2.89 mm Hg (95% CI, −4.24 to −1.54) at week 24 for DBP. Patients in the HI group were more likely to attain controlled BP at the follow-up period with odds ratio of 1.44 (95% CI, 1.21–1.72) at week 8, 1.90 (95% CI, 1.59–2.27) at week 16, and 2.24 (95% CI, 1.87–2.68) at the end. The trends of subgroup and sensitivity analyses were mostly consistent with the main analysis. The incidences of AEs were similar between the HI group and control group with all p-value >0.05.

Conclusion

The HI therapy is related to significant amelioration in BP levels with acceptable safety profile in Chinese hypertensive adults after 24 weeks of treatment, building a clinical ground for further research to evaluate the antihypertensive effect of HI therapy.
Preoperative management and anticoagulant efficacy in atrial myxoma-associated acute ischemic stroke: a case report and literature review
Authors: Chen Yu , Huang Qian , Bai Chengping , Zhang Hao , Zhang Bo
Published: November 2024

Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is a common complication of atrial myxoma (AM), and most emboli originate from a thrombus attached to the surface of the myxoma, with occasional shedding of tumor fragments leading to stroke. Clinical manifestations of AM include mitral valve obstruction, systemic embolism, and weakness. However, neurological deficits and other nonspecific manifestations may mask the presence of AM. The surgical resection is the most effective treatment for these conditions. However, the main problem is the lack of consensus regarding the prevention and treatment of stroke complicated by myxoma during the perioperative period. This study aims to improve the diagnosis and treatment of AM and the associated AIS. Here, we report the case of a 27-year-old patient with AM who presented with chest pain, palpitations, and sudden dizziness and had a stroke under anticoagulant treatment during the admission period. We also reviewed and summarized the clinical presentations and characteristics of similar previously reported cases. Our review emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and appropriate perioperative management of AM and its associated AIS.
Fitness and psychological effects of tele-exercise in healthy populations. Preliminary study
Authors: Fucarino Alberto , Zimatore Giovanna , Fabbrizio Antonio , Garrido Nuno D. , Reis Victor Machado , Vilaça-Alves José , Sausa Martina , Matteo Barbara , Peixoto Rafael , Perušina Paulina , Aristova Aleksandra , De Giorgio Andrea , Baldari Carlo , Macaluso Filippo , Iuliano Enzo , Cantoia Manuela
Published: November 2024

Background

The study investigates the impact of tele-exercise on physical fitness and psychological well-being in healthy individuals. Tele-exercise, facilitated by technology, offers a flexible and accessible alternative to traditional exercise, particularly beneficial during restricted in-person interactions.

Methods

In this study, 52 participants were divided into three groups: athletes, women, and young adults. They took part in an eight-week tele-exercise program, either synchronously or asynchronously. Physical fitness was evaluated using tests such as the 2-Minute Step and Curl Up Test, while psychological well-being was assessed using the Psychological General Well-Being Index (PGWBI) and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10).

Results

Significant improvements in physical fitness and psychological well-being were observed in post-intervention across all groups, regardless of training mode. In the fitness tests, a significant improvement was obtained in the 2-Minute-Step (p = 0.004), in the curls up (p = 0.017), and in squats test (p = 0.004). In the forward bending test, the increment was very close to the significance (p = 0.051). In the psychological well-being tests, both PGWBI and WHO-5 scores increased after the training (p = 0.024 and p = 0.001 respectively) with no significant change in the PSS-10 score. The study found that tele-exercise can effectively introduce physical activity to previously inactive individuals and motivate them to adopt healthier lifestyle behaviors.

Conclusions

The TELEexe4ALL project demonstrates the potential of tele-exercise to improve physical fitness and psychological well-being. The study suggests that tele-exercise is a feasible and well-accepted approach for enhancing overall wellness in healthy populations.
Introducing dental practice management in the undergraduate curriculum through an interprofessional module: experience from an Indian dental school
Authors: Sujir Nanditha , Naik Dilip G. , Mohammed Ciraj Ali , Jain Animesh , Uppoor Ashita
Published: November 2024

Introduction

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a dental practice management education module developed through interprofessional collaboration.

Materials and methods

A dental practice management module was developed through need assessment, literature review, and interprofessional collaboration. The IP team included dental practitioners, dental educators, business expert, lawyer, bioethicist, engineer, and architects. Thirty interns were included in the study. Participants were assessed through pre-and post-test. Evaluation of the program was carried out by obtaining feedback from the students and dental practitioners who were invited to attend the program. The pre-and post-test results were compared by paired student t-test. p-value of <0.01 was considered significant. The content of the feedback forms was subjected to qualitative and descriptive analysis.

Results

Through the process of module preparation, pertinent competencies were identified and included in the program. There was a statistically significant increase in knowledge among students with respect to the domains included, as shown in the pre-post-test comparisons. The feedback obtained was positive. IP collaboration in module design and implementation was considered an important factor for dental practice management.

Conclusion

Practice management education can be made effective through IP collaborations.
Radiation therapy in functioning and no functioning pituitary neuroendocrine tumor: systematic review of the recent literature after 2011
Authors: Hemaidia Racha-Miloda , Cebula Hélène , Goichot Bernard , Noel Georges
Published: November 2024

Neuroendocrine pituitary tumor, a benign cells proliferation, can cause significant morbidity due to its local invasiveness and secretory properties. Historically, radiotherapy has been employed as a second or third-line treatment option, with studies dating back to the mid-20th century. However, advancements in radiotherapy techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), stereotactic radiosurgery, and proton therapy, have revolutionized treatment approaches. This review aims to critically evaluate the recent literature (2011–2022) on the use of radiotherapy in both functioning and nonfunctioning neuroendocrine pituitary tumor. We employed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) methodology to systematically analyze 52 articles, focusing on local and hormonal control, radiotherapy protocols, and treatment-related side effects.
Development and characterization of an in vitro fluorescently tagged 3D bone-cartilage interface model
Authors: Adams Mary , Cottrell Jessica
Published: November 2024

Three-dimensional cultures are widely used to study bone and cartilage. These models often focus on the interaction between osteoblasts and osteoclasts or osteoblasts and chondrocytes. A culture of osteoblasts, osteoclasts and chondrocytes would represent the cells that interact in the joint and a model with these cells could be used to study many diseases that affect the joints. The goal of this study was to develop 3D bone-cartilage interface (3D-BCI) that included osteoblasts, osteocytes, osteoclasts, and cartilage. Fluorescently tagged cell lines were developed to assess the interactions as cells differentiate to form bone and cartilage. Mouse cell line, MC3T3, was labeled with a nuclear GFP tag and differentiated into osteoblasts and osteocytes in Matrigel. Raw264.7 cells transfected with a red cytoplasmic tag were added to the system and differentiated with the MC3T3 cells to form osteoclasts. A new method was developed to differentiate chondrocyte cell line ATDC5 in a cartilage spheroid, and the ATDC5 spheroid was added to the MC3T3 and Raw264.7 cell model. We used an Incucyte and functional analysis to assess the cells throughout the differentiation process. The 3D-BCI model was found to be positive for TRAP, ALP, Alizarin red and Alcian blue staining to confirm osteoblastogenesis, osteoclastogenesis, and cartilage formation. Gene expression confirmed differentiation of cells based on increased expression of osteoblast markers: Alpl, Bglap, Col1A2, and Runx2, cartilage markers: Acan, Col2A1, Plod2, and osteoclast markers: Acp5, Rank and Ctsk. Based on staining, protein expression and gene expression results, we conclude that we successfully developed a mouse model with a 3D bone-cartilage interface.
Land-use competition in 1.5°C climate stabilization: is there enough land for all potential needs?
Authors: Gurgel Angelo , Morris Jennifer , Haigh Martin , Robertson Andy D. , van der Ploeg Robin , Paltsev Sergey
Published: November 2024

Achieving a low-carbon future requires a comprehensive approach that combines emission mitigation options from economic activities with the sustainable use of land for numerous needs: food production, energy production, carbon sequestration, nature preservation and broad ecosystem services. Using the MIT Integrated Global System (IGSM) framework we analyze land-use competition in a 1.5°C climate stabilization scenario, in which demand for bioenergy and natural sinks increase along with the need for sustainable farming and food production. We find that to address the numerous trade-offs, effective approaches to nature-based solutions (NBS) and agriculture practices are essential. With proper regulatory policies and radical changes in current practices, global land is sufficient to provide increased consumption of food per capita (without large diet changes) over the century while also utilizing 2.5–3.5 billion hectares (Gha) of land for NBS practices that provide a carbon sink of 3–6 gigatonnes (Gt) of CO2 per year as well as 0.4–0.6 Gha of land for energy production—0.2–0.3 Gha for 50–65 exajoules (EJ) per year of bioenergy and 0.2–0.35 Gha for 300–600 EJ/year of wind and solar power generation. We list the competing uses of land to reflect the trade-offs involved in land use decisions, and note that while there is sufficient land in our scenario, attaining this outcome, capable of delivering a 1.5°C future, requires effective policies and measures at national and global levels that promote efficient land use for food, energy and nature (including carbon sequestration) and ensure long-term commitments by decision makers from governments and industry in order to realize the benefits of climate change mitigation.
Increasing detections of the margay: occupancy, density, and activity patterns in Madre de Dios, Peru
Authors: Zwicker Samantha , Sánchez-Latorre Clara , Lukasser Clemens
Published: November 2024

This study provides novel insights into the ecology of the margay (Leopardus wiedii), focusing on its occupancy, density, and activity patterns in the Madre de Dios region, Peru, by utilizing both arboreal and terrestrial camera traps. Conducted across 10 km2, the research achieved 47 detections, utilizing semi-arboreal, lower canopy cameras for the first time to capture margay activities. Occupancy models revealed a mean occupancy probability of 53.82% and a detection probability of 6.57%. Among the environmental covariates, diameter at breast height (DBH) was identified as a significant predictor, negatively impacting occupancy, suggesting margays favor areas with smaller tree diameters. Contrary to expectations, the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) did not significantly influence occupancy. Tree density exhibited a positive, though non-significant, association with margay presence. Spatial capture-recapture (SECR) models estimated a margay density of 71.46 individuals per 100 km², with significant sex-based differences in spatial behavior. Males demonstrated larger home ranges (approximately 13.50 km²) compared to females (approximately 3.79 km²). Activity pattern analyses indicated primary nocturnal behavior with peaks at midnight to 3 am, 5 am, and 6 pm. Temporal overlap analysis revealed a low overlap coefficient with jaguarundis (Dhat1 = 0.21) and a higher overlap with ocelots (Dhat4 = 0.79), reflecting intricate interspecies dynamics. Our findings highlight important ecological aspects of margay behavior, including habitat preferences, nocturnal activity patterns, and interspecies interactions, which were effectively captured through the combined use of terrestrial and arboreal camera traps. The study emphasizes the importance of habitat preservation and the development of conservation strategies tailored to the ecological needs of margays, potentially influencing global practices for the management and protection of lesser-studied semi-arboreal wild cats.
Multi-omics insights implicate the remodeling of the intestinal structure and microbiome in aging
Authors: Chen Shaohua , Wang Chengbang , Zou Xiong , Li Hanwen , Yang Guanglin , Su Xiaotao , Mo Zengnan
Published: November 2024

Background

Aging can impair the ability of elderly individuals to fight infections and trigger persistent systemic inflammation, a condition known as inflammaging. However, the mechanisms underlying the development of inflammaging remain unknown.

Methods

We conducted 16S rRNA sequencing of intestinal contents from young and old C57BL/6J mice to elucidate changes in gut microbiota diversity and microbial community composition after aging. Aging-related differential bacterial taxa were then identified, and their abundance trends were validated in human samples. The variances in intestinal barrier function and circulating endotoxin between groups were also assessed. Furthermore, widely targeted metabolomics was conducted to characterize metabolic profiles after aging and to investigate the key metabolic pathways enriched by the differential metabolites.

Results

Our findings demonstrated an increase in relative proportion of pathogenic bacteria with age, a trend also revealed in healthy populations of different age groups. Additionally, aging individuals exhibited reduced intestinal barrier function and increased circulating endotoxin levels. Widely targeted metabolomics revealed a significant increase in various secondary bile acid metabolites after aging, positively correlated with the relative abundance of several aging-related bacterial taxa. Furthermore, old group had lower levels of various anti-inflammatory or beneficial metabolites. Enrichment analysis identified the starch and sucrose metabolism pathway as potentially the most significantly impacted signaling pathway during aging.

Conclusion

This study aimed to provide insights into the complex interactions involved in organismal inflammaging through microbial multi-omics. These findings lay a solid foundation for future research aimed at identifying novel biomarkers for the clinical diagnosis of aging-related diseases or potential therapeutic targets.
A rat model of cirrhosis with well-differentiated hepatocellular carcinoma induced by thioacetamide
Authors: Hu Zhiping , Kurihara Takeshi , Sun Yiyue , Cetin Zeliha , Florentino Rodrigo M. , Faccioli Lanuza A. P. , Liu Zhenghao , Yang Bo , Ostrowska Alina , Locker Joseph D. , Soto-Gutierrez Alejandro , Delgado Evan R.
Published: November 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths, and commonly associated with hepatic fibrosis or cirrhosis. This study aims to establish a rat model mimicking the progression from liver fibrosis to cirrhosis and subsequently to HCC using thioacetamide (TAA). We utilized male Lewis rats, treating them with intra-peritoneal injections of TAA. These rats received bi-weekly injections of either 200 mg/kg TAA or saline (as a control) over a period of 34 weeks. The development of cirrhosis and hepatocarcinogenesis was monitored through histopathological examinations, biochemical markers, and immunohistochemical analyses. Our results demonstrated that chronic TAA administration induced cirrhosis aggressive cholangiocarcinoma in addition to well-differentiated HCC, providing a model for early-stage, stage and a mixed liver cancer phenotype. This model is characterized by increased fibrosis, altered liver architecture, and increased hepatocyte proliferation. Biochemical analyses revealed significant alterations in liver function markers, including elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels, without affecting kidney function or causing significant weight loss or mortality in rats. This TAA-induced cirrhosis and mixed HCC rat model successfully replicates the clinical progression of human HCC, particularly in terms of liver function impairment and early-stage liver cancer characteristics. It serves as a valuable tool for future research on the mechanisms of antitumor drugs in tumor initiation and development.
Predicting thyroid involvement in primary Sjögren’s syndrome: development and validation of a predictive nomogram
Authors: Yang Yixuan , Du Yanyuan , Ren Zhaoyang , Mei Qingqing , Jiang Mengyao , Liu Wenjing , Zhang Huadong , Cui Bingnan
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Patients with Primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS) are at a higher risk of thyroid disorders than the general population. This retrospective analysis of 202 patients with pSS was conducted to uncover risk factors associated with thyroid involvement and to create a predictive model for this condition.

Methods

We analyzed 202 patients with pSS from Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, with 105 cases of thyroid involvement and 97 without. The Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator method was used to identify key variables for our risk model. These variables were then subjected to multivariate logistic regression to develop the model. The accuracy of the model was assessed through the C-index, receiver operating characteristic curves, calibration plots, and decision curve analysis, with internal validation via bootstrapping.

Results

High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (HCRP), pulmonary disease, pharyngeal dryness, forgetfulness, night sweats, hyperuricemia, nasal dryness, anxiety, Ro52, and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were incorporated into the nomogram. The model showed robust discrimination and calibration abilities. Decision curve analysis indicated the clinical utility of our nomogram in intervening on the probability thresholds of thyroid disease.

Conclusion

By integrating HCRP, pulmonary disease, pharyngeal dryness, forgetfulness, night sweats, hyperuricemia, nasal dryness, anxiety, Ro52, and AST, our thyroid risk nomogram can predict the risk of thyroid involvement in patients with pSS, aiding in more informed treatment strategies.
From microbes to medicine: harnessing the power of the microbiome in esophageal cancer
Authors: Liu Xiaoyan , Li Bang , Liang Liping , Han Jimin , Mai Shijie , Liu Le
Published: November 2024

Esophageal cancer (EC) is a malignancy with a high incidence and poor prognosis, significantly influenced by dysbiosis in the esophageal, oral, and gut microbiota. This review provides an overview of the roles of microbiota dysbiosis in EC pathogenesis, emphasizing their impact on tumor progression, drug efficacy, biomarker discovery, and therapeutic interventions. Lifestyle factors like smoking, alcohol consumption, and betel nut use are major contributors to dysbiosis and EC development. Recent studies utilizing advanced sequencing have revealed complex interactions between microbiota dysbiosis and EC, with oral pathogens such as Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum promoting inflammation and suppressing immune responses, thereby driving carcinogenesis. Altered esophageal microbiota, characterized by reduced beneficial bacteria and increased pathogenic species, further exacerbate local inflammation and tumor growth. Gut microbiota dysbiosis also affects systemic immunity, influencing chemotherapy and immunotherapy efficacy, with certain bacteria enhancing or inhibiting treatment responses. Microbiota composition shows potential as a non-invasive biomarker for early detection, prognosis, and personalized therapy. Novel therapeutic strategies targeting the microbiota—such as probiotics, dietary modifications, and fecal microbiota transplantation—offer promising avenues to restore balance and improve treatment efficacy, potentially enhancing patient outcomes. Integrating microbiome-focused strategies into current therapeutic frameworks could improve EC management, reduce adverse effects, and enhance patient survival. These findings highlight the need for further research into microbiota-tumor interactions and microbial interventions to transform EC treatment and prevention, particularly in cases of late-stage diagnosis and poor treatment response.
Factors affecting treatment delays among malaria patients presenting at health facilities in Guinea, 2022–2023
Authors: Diallo Elhadj Marouf , Kourouma Karifa , Diakite Nouman , Diallo Abdourahamane , Blanquet Marie , Toure Abdoulaye , Gerbaud Laurent , Camara Alioune
Published: November 2024

Background

Early identification and management of cases are key for controlling and eliminating malaria. This study aimed to assess the factors associated with the delay malaria treatment in Guinea.

Methods

Cross-sectional study was conducted at 60 health facilities in eight administrative regions from December 2022 to March 2023. Patients with a diagnosis of malaria through either microscopy or a rapid diagnostic test (RDT), were interviewed using a standardized questionnaire. Treatment delays were defined as seeking care 48 hours after the onset of symptoms. Logistic regression was performed to assess factors associated with treatment delay. Adjusted odds ratio (OR) and confidence interval (CI) were used to explain the associated factors.

Results

3,300 malaria patients were included and the findings showed a median time of symptoms onset and access of malaria treatment was 3.04 days. Alarmingly, only 800 (24.24%) of all cases sought and received treatment within 48 hours of symptom onset. The multivariate logistic regression indicated that children under 5 years of age who attempted self-medication for fever were 4.32 times more likely to experience a delay in treatment than those who sought immediate medical care in health facilities (OR:4.32, 95% CI: 2.96–6.36). Children whose parents had no formal education were 3.05 times more likely to experience a delay in treatment (OR:3.05, 95% CI: 1.66–5.60). Moreover, when the disease was considered non-severe the first time by caregivers, OR = 1.71 (95% CI: 1.26–2.33). For those 5 years old and above, using university hospital OR = 4.01, (95% CI: 2.01–8.44), living in Forest Guinea OR = 3.14, (95% CI 1.93–5.10) and Middle Guinea OR = 1.46 (95% CI: 1.09–1.95) were more likely to experience delay treatment.

Conclusions

The proportion of malaria patients with treatment within 48 is low, significantly falling short of the national targets. This substantial delay in treatment was attributed to factors such the lack of formal education, self-medication practices, and failure to recognize the illness severity. These findings underscore the urgent need for NMCP to enhance awareness regarding the importance of early presentation at health facilities, with targeted interventions.
Pathways in the governance of shipping decarbonization from perspective of balancing the conflicting interests
Authors: Li Wenwen , Hu Zhengliang
Published: November 2024

The shipping industry is featured by high carbon emissions. The 2023 IMO Strategy on Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships sets forth the global goals of shipping decarbonization. Shipping decarbonization involves complicated issues of economy, technology, policy and law etc., and implies the conflicts between economic interests and environmental interests, between individual interests and public interests, between individual States’ interests and international common interests and between current interests and long-term interests. This research suggests that balancing such conflicting interests need to follow the principle of prioritizing the international public environmental interests while taking into account the other interests because protection of environmental interests should be taken as the basic value orientation in shipping decarbonization governance and the principle of collaborating governmental intervention and market mechanisms by reference to the theory on the relationship between government and market in economics. Under the guidance of these principle, by reference to the equilibrium analysis method in economics and following the progressive decision theory in management, this research demonstrates that the main pathways in achieving such balance may include: making strategic plan and basic policy for reducing GHG emissions from ships by the government, implementing economic incentive policies such as tax incentives and fiscal subsidies, implementing ship energy efficiency measures, prudently implementing shipping carbon emissions trading mechanism, accelerating the establishment of alternative marine fuel supply chain, innovating alternative marine fuel technology and ship propulsion technology, and actively engaging in international cooperation.
Pseudoalteromonas flavipulchra as a dual-functional probiotic for aquaculture: enhancing microalgae growth and antagonizing Vibrio pathogens
Authors: Wu Min-nan , Xu Yi-jun , Shao Meng-meng , Wang Zi-yue , Cao Jia-yi , Xu Ji-lin
Published: November 2024

Vibrio disease is a prevalent bacterial infection in aquaculture, and using bacteria with antagonistic properties against Vibrio species as probiotics has emerged as a promising method for disease prevention. Additionally, low biomass productivity of microalgae feed remains a significant bottleneck in bivalve aquaculture. Therefore, it is essential to screen for bacteria that both enhance microalgae growth and inhibit Vibrio pathogens. In this study, seven bacterial strains capable of promoting microalgae growth were screened for their ability to inhibit three Vibrio pathogens, i.e., Vibrio vulnificus, Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Vibrio cholerae, and thus serve as a dual-functional probiotic for aquaculture. The antagonistic mechanism of these bacteria was further investigated by analyzing the inhibitory effects of their extracellular products (ECP) on Vibrio species. Results indicated that Pseudoalteromonas flavipulchra exhibited antagonistic effects against all three Vibrio species tested. The ECP of P. flavipulchra displayed stable antibacterial activity, though this ability was lost after the ECP was treated with heat, alkali, or proteinase K. The proteinaceous fraction isolated from the ECP by precipitation with 90% saturated ammonium sulfate demonstrated concentration-dependent antibacterial activity. These findings suggest that P. flavipulchra could serve as a promising dual-functional probiotic for aquaculture, warranting further research to optimize its application in this field.