bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Omniscient Narrative Modes in Law: From Trial Strategy to the Fellow-Servant Rule
Authors: Stern Simon
Published: March 2023

Research in law and literature often uses the term “narrative” as a shorthand for various kinds of motivated legal reasoning, indicating that facts, doctrines, and the relations among them have been chosen and arranged for a particular purpose. Alternatively, speaking of “narrative” may be a way of conveying that one is concerned with interpretation, and may be a signal that the discussion will focus on images, symbols, representations, or ideologies, even if their narrative features play little or no role in the analysis. This article shows how research on narrative might help to clarify aspects of trial strategy and legal doctrine. The first section considers omniscient narration as a way of understanding the effects of various defense strategies, in a criminal trial. The second section considers the role of omniscient narration in the development of the “fellow- servant” rule in the nineteenth century. The law of evidence provides an especially fruitful area for such investigations, but questions of narrative form and technique can help to clarify many other aspects of forensic argumentation and analysis, in both procedural and substantive contexts.
On Captain Vere and the Electric Chair: Capital Punishment, Billy Budd, and Fantasies of Sovereign Power in the Late 19th Century
Authors: LaChance Daniel
Published: March 2023

While Herman Melville was writing Billy Bud, Sailor, political elites in his home state of New York were overhauling their state’s death penalty. Their work culminated in the Electrical Execution Act of 1888. In addition to changing the state’s execution method from hanging to electrocution, the legislation introduced new policies and execution procedures aimed at projecting an image of law as majestic and inexorable in its operation. By bringing new discipline and secrecy to executions, reformers hoped that they could exert greater control over the public’s response to them. Through a close reading of Billy Budd and archival documents related to the adoption of the electric chair, I argue that the novella grapples with a fantasy of sovereign power similar to the one that drove execution reform efforts in New York. Efforts to achieve total control over life and death, Melville suggests, are bound to fail because they require a depersonalization of both the agent and the subject of sovereign power that is unjust and, mercifully, unfeasible. Neither Billy’s death by hanging nor the first execution by electricity in New York had the effects on the public’s responses to executions that elites desired. Ironically, though, the failure of efforts to control the meaning of executions may have made capital punishment more palatable to the public than it otherwise would have been.
Why, when and how to give safety-netting advice
Authors: Silverston Visiting Professor Paul
Published: March 2023

In primary care, consultations often conclude with the patient being advised to seek medical care if their symptoms become worse or do not resolve; which is known as safety-netting advice (SNA). Although it is widely accepted that patients should be given SNA, studies have shown that there is a wide variation in the quantity and quality of SNA given to patients, with patients reporting that the information they receive is often vague and unhelpful. This article explains why providing patients with SNA is essential for safe practice and describes how safety-netting can be improved by coming to the consultation with pre-prepared SNA and a system for delivering that advice to the patient.
Health care associated infections, antimicrobial resistance and outcomes in patients admitted to intensive care unit, India: A five-Year retrospective cohort study
Authors: Chenchula Santenna , Sadasivam Balakrishnan , Shukla Ajay , Pathan Saman , Saurabh saigal
Published: March 2023

Background

The present study was conducted to study the prevalence of HAIs in a newly established MICU, common microorganisms causing HAIs and their antibiotic-sensitivity profile, and antimicrobial utilization and mortality rate.

Methods

The present retrospective cohort study was carried out at AIIMS, Bhopal (2015–2019). The prevalence of HAIs was determined; sites of HAIs and common causative microorganisms were identified, and their antibiotic-sensitivity profiles were studied. The group of patients with HAIs was matched with a control group drawn from the pool of patients without HAIs; this matching was done with respect to age, gender, and clinical diagnosis. Antimicrobial utilization, Period of ICU stay, comorbidities and patient mortality rates in the two groups were analyzed. The clinical criteria by the CDC- National Nosocomial Infections Surveillance to diagnose HAIs.

Results

A total of 281 ICU patients’ records were analyzed. The mean age was 47.21 ± 19.07 years. Of these 89 were found to have developed ICU-acquired HAIs (Prevalance:32%). Bloodstream infections (33%) and respiratory tract infections (30.68%), catheter-associated urinary tract infections (25.56%), and surgical site infections (6.76%) were the commonest. The most frequently isolated microorganism causing HAIs was K. pneumonia (18%), A. baumannii (14%) and E. coli (12%), 31% isolates of which were multidrug resistant. The average length of ICU stay was high in patients with HAIs (13.85 vs 8.2 days). The most common co-morbidity was type 2 diabetes mellitus (42.86%). Prolonged ICU stays [OR 1.13, (95% CI; 0.04–0.10)] and the presence of HAIs [OR 1.18(95%CI; (0.03–0.15)] were associated with an increased risk of mortality

Conclusions

An increased prevalence of HAIs essentially bloodstream infections and respiratory infections with MDR organisms to antimicrobials in the watch group is highly considerable. Acquisition of HAIs with MDR organisms and increased length of hospital stay are considerable risk factors for increased mortality in ICU-admitted patients. Regular antimicrobial stewardship activities and revising existing hospital infection control policies accordingly may reduce HAIs.
Narrowing the Divide: The Role of Telehealth in Type 1 Diabetes Care for Marginalized Communities
Authors: Crossen Stephanie S. , Wagner David V.
Published: March 2023

Widespread uptake of telehealth in response to the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted geographic, demographic, and economic disparities in access to virtual care. However, research studies and clinical programs that predate the pandemic demonstrate the potential for telehealth-based interventions to improve access to and outcomes of type 1 diabetes (T1D) care for individuals in geographically or socially marginalized communities. In this expert commentary, we discuss telehealth-based care models that have been successful in improving care for marginalized T1D populations. We also outline the policy changes needed to expand access to such interventions to reduce established disparities in T1D care and promote better health equity among people living with T1D.
MRI findings of sporadic/simple lymphoepithelial cyst of the parotid gland
Authors: Suto Taketo , Kato Hiroki , Kawaguchi Masaya , Kobayashi Kazuhiro , Ando Tomohiro , Shibata Hirofumi , Ogawa Takenori , Noda Yoshifumi , Hyodo Fuminori , Matsuo Masayuki
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to determine the MRI features of sporadic/simple lymphoepithelial cyst (SLEC) of the parotid gland.

Methods

Ten patients (seven men, three women; mean age, 60 years; age range, 38–77 years) with histopathologically and clinically proven SLEC of the parotid gland who underwent MRI before surgical resection were enrolled in this study. No enrolled patient had HIV infection or Sjögren syndrome. MRI findings of SLEC were retrospectively assessed.

Results

We confirmed 10 SLECs larger than 10 mm with a mean maximum diameter of 26.6 mm (range, 12–42 mm). Nine patients (90%) had a single cyst, and one (10%) had a large cyst accompanied by small cysts (<10 mm) within the ipsilateral parotid gland. Eight SLECs (80%) were unilocular, and two (20%) were bilocular, with complete septa. Among seven SLECs (70%) with internal septa, five unilocular SLECs (50%) had incomplete septa. Six SLECs (60%) had eccentric cyst wall thickening, and five (50%) were surrounded by small solid nodules that were isointense relative to lymph node. On T1-weighted images, all cyst contents were homogeneously hyperintense relative to cerebrospinal fluid.

Conclusion

SLECs of the parotid gland are usually single unilocular lesions. Internal septa, eccentric cyst wall thickening, and small solid nodules surrounding the lesion were often observed. Cyst contents are always homogeneously hyperintense on T1-weighted images.
Anomalous Origin of Left Circumflex Coronary Artery From Right Pulmonary Artery: An Unusual Cause of Sudden Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Schmiady Martin O. , Cesnjevar Robert , Yakupoglu Yakup , Adjibodou Ojuola B. , Spirig Andreas , Bettex Dominique , Meier Lukas , Carrel Thierry
Published: March 2023

Anomalous origin of the left circumflex coronary artery from the right pulmonary artery is an extremely rare coronary anomaly out of the group of anomalous coronary arteries arising from the pulmonary artery. We present the case of a 27-year-old male, in whom the diagnosis of an anomalous left circumflex coronary artery from the pulmonary artery was made after sudden cardiac arrest. The diagnosis was confirmed by multimodal imaging and the patient underwent successful surgical correction. Abnormal origins of a coronary artery may become symptomatic later in life and may occur as an isolated cardiac malformation. Due to a potentially unfavorable clinical course, surgical correction should be considered as soon as a diagnosis is made.
Mobility and Hip Function Among Geriatric Patients With Displaced Neck of Femur Fractures Treated With Arthroplasty
Authors: Ho Jade Pei Yuik , Wong Amy Yoke Foong , Ong Lik Han , Rutel Ankimtay , Abdullah Sabaruddin , Jaffar Mohd Shahrul Azuan , Bong Chun Haw , Tan Kean Tee , Rao Reuben Prashant , Kamaruddin Faris
Published: March 2023

Background

Neck of femur fractures result in impaired function for older people. Despite surgery, many patients experience a decrease in functional level and poorer health status after the injury. The objectives of this study were (1) to determine the short-term mobility and hip function of geriatric patients who underwent hip replacement surgery for a displaced neck of femur fracture in our local population and (2) to identify factors which affect the functional outcome of these patients.

Methods

Patients aged 60 years and above, who were admitted for neck of femur fracture from January 2017 to December 2020, and treated surgically with arthroplasty, were included. Information on patient demography, comorbidities, perioperative data, mobility, hip function and complications were retrospectively collected. Outcome measures used were independent ambulation and recovery of pre-fracture mobility at 1 year after surgery while hip function was assessed using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) total, pain, stiffness, and physical function scores. Factors associated with these outcomes were analyzed.

Results

168 patients with a mean age of 75.2 (SD 8.4) years met the inclusion criteria. 32.1% of patients regained their pre-fracture mobility and 59.6% remained independent 1 year after surgery. Logistic regression analysis identified age, gender, surgical procedure, and time to surgery as significant contributors to recovery of pre-fracture mobility. Older age and increasing requirement for postoperative ambulatory aid resulted in worse WOMAC total and physical function scores. No significant differences were observed in patient-reported hip function between those who had a total hip arthroplasty and those who had a hemiarthroplasty.

Conclusion

Most geriatric patients with displaced neck of femur fractures did not regain pre-fracture mobility despite surgical treatment with arthroplasty.
Parental Involvement With Early Adolescents: Variations Related to the Gender in Rural and Urban Areas
Authors: Morales-Castillo Miguel , Meza Rodríguez Ana Estrella , Murcia Piñeros Lina Maria
Published: March 2023

The current study addressed the variations of parental involvement according to the home location and the gender of adolescents, considering the mother’s education. Through a cross-sectional design, variations in parental involvement were analyzed with 1,079 mothers and their adolescents between 11 and 14 years old (mean age = 12.88, SD = 0.98) in Colombia, registering the home location, gender of adolescents, educational level of mothers, and the perceived parental involvement at home and at school. The data were analyzed through a multivariate general linear model and multiple linear regression. In the results, there were no significant differences in direct effects of home location and gender of adolescents in involvement, but they were found in the interaction, where less parental involvement of mothers is dedicated to girls in urban areas compared with girls in rural areas and boys in urban areas. It was possible to establish that the interaction between variables seems to be related to the educational level of the mothers. The findings supported a situated approach to parental involvement in the case of mothers, where factors associated with parents and adolescents are relevant in specific settings.
Inclusion and equity: Experiences and dilemmas of disability resource centers at world-class universities
Authors: Li Huan , Yu Jing , Luo Yueling , Guo Congyun
Published: March 2023

The disability resource centers (DRCs) of world-class universities play a central role in achieving the goal of promoting inclusion and equity in higher education. To provide a reference for the development of inclusive education in China’s double first-class universities, the DRCs of the top 10 universities were selected as typical cases to analyze their experiences and dilemmas. Regarding service mechanisms, DRCs aimed to ensure equitable access so that students with disabilities (SWD) could fully and holistically participate in universities, thereby improving inclusion on campus. In addition, DRCs established official websites as a service platform and developed clear service procedures and grievances to ensure the quality of service. Regarding service content, DRCs emphasized enhancing the disability awareness of campus members and provided support and services for SWD in their study, life, and employment to ensure that SWD could receive high-quality higher education. However, DRCs also suffered from dilemmas of low service application rates, flawed service mechanisms, and controversial service quality. Accordingly, suggestions and implications are proposed to improve inclusion and equity in China’s double first-class universities, including establishing a collaborative disability service system with DRCs as the core, optimizing the service mechanism, and providing personalized and diversified support service content.
Understanding data-driven decision making approach in Chinese higher education through the lens of Bakers model
Authors: Kalim Usama , Bibi Saira
Published: March 2023

Making decisions based on data is evolving in higher education worldwide. Higher education institutions (HEIs) in China are also adopting this trend of data-driven decision making to improve the quality standards in higher education. However, the data-driven decision making (DDDM) approach has recently evolved in China, and the data based decision-making models are still immature. Therefore, this study investigates the DDDM approach of Chinese HEIs through an established theoretical data model lens to highlight some of its immaturities and weaknesses for improvement. The study analyzes the DDDM approach in Chinese higher education by exploring the data-mining practices of a case study university. A leading Chinese university has been taken as a sample case study. The multiple interviews have been taken at both faculty and university levels to explore the DDDM practices. The results suggest that the Chinese university DDDM approach is consistent with the established Bakers model. However, the scope of data mining is limited in some areas when compared with the theoretical model. The university is also behind in using advanced applications and software required for DDDM. The results of this study highlight the DDDM approach in Chinese higher education and some of its immaturity. The results can be used to improve the DDDM approach in Chinese HEIs further to ensure more effective and efficient decision-making.
Using neighborhood characteristics to predict vacancy types: Comparing multi-scale conditions surrounding existing vacant lots
Authors: Lee Ryun Jung , Newman Galen , Van Zandt Shannon
Published: March 2023

Vacant and abandoned land can be public eyesores that can potentially result in neighborhood distress in the long term. In some cases, the contextual conditions of a neighborhood have been shown to have more of a negative effect on communities than the vacant property itself. Maximum opportunities to actually reuse vacant and abandoned land is known to primarily exist in cases where the surrounding area has locational benefits or when local economic conditions are hopeful. This study examines and compares neighborhood socioeconomic characteristics around vacant lots in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA, to identify spatial heterogeneity within vacancy types and neighborhood characteristics. Specifically, we examine 1) if the socioeconomic characteristics of a neighborhood can predict existing vacant lots and 2) what neighborhood characteristics are associated with certain vacant lot types. Three logistic regressions were tested with different buffers around each vacant lot, and a total of eighteen regressions were performed to capture the effects on six vacancy types. Results suggest that there are various types of vacancies interacting differently at the neighborhood scale, and that a large-scale neighborhood context matters when predicting vacancy types. The results also indicate three salient points. First, minority populations are a strong predictor of residential and commercial vacancies. Second, high-income areas tend to predict vacancies with potential investment opportunities or vacancies as a part of an existing park or recreational system. Third, vacant properties designated for institutional land uses tend to be found in lower-income areas, yet, not necessarily in areas with high minority populations. Managing and repurposing vacant and abandoned land should be handled more progressively with a better understanding of the socioeconomic characteristics of neighborhoods. Further, examining vacancy types by community can be a way to diagnose potential neighborhood risks associated with vacant and abandoned land.
Pornography and Its Impact on Adolescent/Teenage Sexuality
Authors: Adarsh Himani , Sahoo Swapnajeet
Published: March 2023

Adolescents/Teenagers are exposed to pornography due to a variety of factors and it is accepted as a process of sexual exploration/normal development of sexuality. However, early exposure to pornography and unregulated/excess exposure to pornography during the formative years of adolescence has been seen to have various long-term deleterious effects on sexual maturation, sexual behavior, Internet addiction, and overall personality development. To safeguard the growing minds of the teens from the harmful effects of pornography, few rules/regulations have been passed in India as well as banning of porn sites. However, there are very limited research on the impact of pornography on various aspects of adolescents’ growth and development. This mini-review covers the issues pertinent to the effect of pornography with regard to adolescent sexuality.
How value is enacted by public actors within urban development funding and the implications for levelling up in England
Authors: Barnfield Andrew
Published: March 2023

The aim of the article is to understand how public actors perform value and how this effects urban development. This article answers this by examining how value is enacted in urban development funding in England. Urban development funding from central to local government is a key source of financing for regeneration and infrastructure projects. Attending to how value is enacted reveals who shapes the underpinning rationale, which in turn influences how value is represented in decision-making and urban development projects. Building on the recent work in geography that questions the concept of value and drawing on performativity and diagrammatic thinking, this article argues that HM Treasury is central to how value is enacted and that the prevailing conception of value in urban development prioritises short-term, financial outcomes despite an awareness of the need to be sensitive to temporal and spatial concerns. The findings proceed from 24 in-depth interviews with senior civil servants, politicians, local government representatives and policy experts that took place during the summer of 2021. The article concludes by considering the implications for enacting value under the UK government’s Levelling up agenda.
Investigation of the Laser Powder Bed Fusion Process of Ti-6.5Al-3.5Mo-1.5Zr-0.3Si Alloy
Authors: Zhang Changchun , Liu Tingting , Liao Wenhe , Wei Huiliang , Zhang Ling
Published: March 2023

Laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) is an advanced manufacturing technology; however, inappropriate LPBF process parameters may cause printing defects in materials. In the present work, the LPBF process of Ti-6.5Al-3.5Mo-1.5Zr-0.3Si alloy was investigated by a two-step optimization approach. Subsequently, heat transfer and liquid flow behaviors during LPBF were simulated by a well-tested phenomenological model, and the defect formation mechanisms in the as-fabricated alloy were discussed. The optimized process parameters for LPBF were detected as laser power changed from 195 W to 210 W, with scanning speed of 1250 mm/s. The LPBF process was divided into a laser irradiation stage, a spreading flow stage, and a solidification stage. The morphologies and defects of deposited tracks were affected by liquid flow behavior caused by rapid cooling rates. The findings of this research can provide valuable support for printing defect-free metal components.
The potential role of migratory birds in the transmission of pathogenic Campylobacter species to broiler chickens in broiler poultry farms and live bird markets
Authors: Tawakol Maram M. , Nabil Nehal M. , Samir Abdelhafez , M. Hawash H. , Yonis Ahlam E. , Shahein Momtaz A. , Elsayed Mona M.
Published: March 2023

Background

Campylobacter species (spp.) are one of the most important zoonotic bacteria possessing potential hazards for animal and human health worldwide. Migratory birds are implicated as significant carriers for microbes and a play very important role in the dissemination of Campylobacter to broiler chickens and their environment. The purpose of this investigation was to detect the prevalence, antibiotic resistant patterns, virulence and diversity of pathogenic Campylobacter spp. in 7 migratory bird species (Northern shoveler, Common pochard, Common teal, Northern pintail, Eared Grebe, Great Crested Grebe and Garganey) and broiler chickens that were collected from broiler poultry farms and live bird markets.

Results

The prevalence of Campylobacter was 12.5% (25/200), of which 15% (15/100) was recovered from 5 migratory bird species only and 10% (10/100) from broiler chickens. At the level of migratory birds, eight isolates (53.3%) were Campylobacter jejuni (C. jejuni) and 7 isolates (46.7%) were Campylobacter coli (C. coli) meanwhile, in broiler chickens C. jejuni and C. coli were 50% (5/10) for each. All isolated strains had phenotypic resistance to doxycycline, while all of the isolates were susceptible to amikacin. The multidrug resistance to three, four or five antimicrobial classes was found in 72% (18/25) of the isolated strains. The multiantibiotic resistance index between the examined isolates was 0.22–0.77, with 10 antibiotic resistance patterns. The virulence of isolated Campylobacter strains (from both migratory birds and broiler chicken birds) was detected by targeting the VirB11, ciaB and iam genes which were recorded at 16%, 52% and 100%, respectively. Additionally, 100% and 84% of the antibiotic resistance genes were identified as tetA and BlaOXA-61, respectively.

Conclusions

The results of this study revealed the diversity between all the isolated strains from migratory birds and their similarity to broiler chicken isolates. The findings of the present study highlight the impact of migratory birds visiting Egypt and other countries on pathogenic Campylobacter spp. carrying pathogenic virulence and resistance genes, necessitating the application of biosecurity measures to prevent migratory birds from entering farms during their migration period.
Foliar application of putrescine, salicylic acid, and ascorbic acid mitigates frost stress damage in Vitis vinifera cv. ‘Giziluzum’
Authors: Jalili Ilnaz , Ebadi Ali , Askari Mohammad Ali , KalatehJari Sepideh , Aazami Mohammad Ali
Published: March 2023

Background

Cold stress is an effective factor in reducing production and injuring fruit trees. Various materials, such as salicylic acid, ascorbic acid, and putrescine, are used to alleviate the damage of abiotic stress.

Results

The effect of different treatments of putrescine, salicylic acid, and ascorbic acid on alleviating the damage of frost stress (− 3 °C) to grapes ‘Giziluzum’ was investigated. Frost stress increased the amount of H2O2, MDA, proline, and MSI. On the other hand, it decreased the concentration of chlorophyll and carotenoids in the leaves. Putrescine, salicylic acid and ascorbic acid significantly increased the activities of catalase, guaiacol peroxidase, ascorbate peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase under frost stress. Following frost stress, the grapes treated with putrescine, salicylic acid, and ascorbic acid showed higher levels of DHA, AsA, and AsA/DHA than the untreated grapes. Our results showed that the treatment with ascorbic acid outperformed the other treatments in adjusting frost stress damages.

Conclusion

The use of compounds, such as ascorbic ac id, salicylic acid, and putrescine, modulates the effects of frost stress, thereby increasing the antioxidant defense system of cells, reducing its damage, and stabilizing stable cell conditions, so it can be used to reduce frost damage to different grape cultivars.
ABC-GOALScl score predicts admission to the intensive care unit and mortality of COVID-19 patients over 60 years of age
Authors: Camacho-Moll María Elena , Ramírez-Daher Zayra , Escobedo-Guajardo Brenda Leticia , Dávila-Valero Julio César , Rodríguez-de la Garza Brenda Ludmila , Bermúdez de León Mario
Published: March 2023

Background

One of the risk factors for getting seriously ill from COVID-19 and reaching high mortality rates is older age. Older age is also associated with comorbidities, which are risk factors for severe COVID-19 infection. Among the tools that have been evaluated to predict intensive care unit (ICU) admission and mortality is ABC-GOALScl.

Aim

In the present study we validated the utility of ABC-GOALScl to predict in-hospital mortality in subjects over 60 years of age who were positive for SARS-CoV-2 virus at the moment of admission with the purpose of optimizing sanitary resources and offering personalized treatment for these patients.

Methods

This was an observational, descriptive, transversal, non-interventional and retrospective study of subjects (≥ 60 years of age), hospitalized due to COVID-19 infection at a general hospital in northeastern Mexico. A logistical regression model was used for data analysis.

Results

Two hundred forty-three subjects were included in the study, whom 145 (59.7%) passed away, while 98 (40.3%) were discharged. Average age was 71, and 57.6% were male. The prediction model ABC-GOALScl included sex, body mass index, Charlson comorbidity index, dyspnea, arterial pressure, respiratory frequency, SpFi coefficient (Saturation of oxygen/Fraction of inspired oxygen ratio), serum levels of glucose, albumin, and lactate dehydrogenase; all were measured at the moment of admission. The area under the curve for the scale with respect to the variable of discharge due to death was 0.73 (IC 95% = 0.662—0.792).

Conclusion

The ABC-GOALScl scale to predict ICU admission in COVID-19 patients is also useful to predict in-hospital death in COVID-19 patients  ≥ 60 years old.
Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomal microRNA-382 promotes osteogenesis in osteoblast via regulation of SLIT2
Authors: Su Hairong , Yang Yulan , Lv Wanchun , Li Xiaoli , Zhao Binxiu
Published: March 2023

Background

Osteoporosis (OP) is a systemic skeletal disorder with increased bone fragility. Human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) have multi-lineage differentiation ability, which may play important roles in osteoporosis. In this study, we aim to investigate the role of hBMSC-derived miR-382 in osteogenic differentiation.

Methods

The miRNA and mRNA expressions in peripheral blood monocytes between persons with high or low bone mineral density (BMD) were compared. Then we collected the hBMSC-secreted sEV and examined the dominant components. The over-expression of the miR-382 in MG63 cell and its progression of osteogenic differentiation were investigated by qRT-PCR, western blot and alizarin red staining. The interaction between miR-382 and SLIT2 was confirmed by dual-luciferase assay. The role of SLIT2 was also confirmed through up-regulation in MG63 cell, and the osteogenic differentiation-associated gene and protein were tested.

Results

According to bioinformatic analysis, a series of differential expressed genes between persons with high or low BMD were compared. After internalization of hBMSC-sEV in MG63 cells, we observed that the ability of osteogenic differentiation was significantly enhanced. Similarly, after up-regulation of miR-382 in MG63 cells, osteogenic differentiation was also promoted. According to the dual-luciferase assay, the targeting function of miR-382 in SLIT2 was demonstrated. Moreover, the benefits of hBMSC-sEV in osteogenesis were abrogated through up-regulation of SLIT2.

Conclusion

Our study provided evidence that miR-382-contained hBMSC-sEV held great promise in osteogenic differentiation in MG63 cells after internalization by targeting SLIT2, which can be served as molecular targets to develop effective therapy.
Specificity protein 1-mediated ACSL4 transcription promoted the osteoarthritis progression through suppressing the ferroptosis of chondrocytes
Authors: He Wen , Lin Xuchao , Chen Kangyao
Published: March 2023

Background

Chondrocytes are the main cell damage type involved in the occurrence and development of osteoarthritis (OA). Ferroptosis has been confirmed to be related to many degenerative diseases. This research aimed to explore the role of Sp1 and ACSL4 in ferroptosis in the IL-1β-treated human chondrocyte cells line (HCCs).

Methods

The cell viability was detected with CCK8 assay. The ROS, MDA, GSH, and Fe2+ levels were assessed with corresponding detecting kits. The Col2a1, Acan, Mmp13, Gpx4 and Tfr1 levels were determined by RT-qPCR assay. Western blot was conducted to evaluate the Acsl4 and Sp1 levels. PI staining was carried out to analyze the cell death. The double luciferase report was conducted to verify the interaction between Acsl4 and Sp1.

Results

The results showed that IL-1β stimulation elevated the LDH release, cell viability, ROS, MDA and Fe2+ levels and declined the GSH levels in the HCCs. Additionally, the mRNA levels of Col2a1, Acan, and Gpx4 were prominently decreased, while Mmp13 and Tfr1 were prominently elevated in the IL-1β stimulated HCCs. Furthermore, Acsl4 protein levels were upregulated in the IL-1β-stimulated HCCs. Both Acsl4 knockdown and ferrostatin-1 treatment neutralized the role of IL-1β in the HCCs. What’s more, Acsl4 was transcriptionally regulated by Specificity protein 1 (Sp1). Sp1 overexpression enhanced the Acsl4 levels and Sp1 knockdown declined it.

Conclusion

Upregulation of Sp1 activates Ascl4 transcription and thus mediates the occurrence of ferroptosis. Hence, Acsl4 may be a therapeutic target for intervention of OA.
Decline in health‐related quality of life and foot and ankle patient reported outcomes measures in patients with haemophilia and ankle haemarthropathy
Authors: Wilkins Richard A. , Siddle Heidi J. , Chapman Graham J. , Horn Elizabeth , Walwyn Rebecca , Redmond Anthony C.
Published: March 2023

Background

Haemophilia is an X‐linked recessive genetic disorder characterised by bleeding within soft tissue and joints. The ankle is disproportionally affected by haemarthropathy when compared to the elbows and knees; reported as the most affected joints in patients with haemophilia. Despite advances in treatment, patients still report ongoing pain and disability, however, the impact has not been evaluated, nor has the effect on health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) or foot and ankle patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs). The primary aim of this study was to establish the impact of ankle haemarthropathy in patients with severe and moderate haemophilia A and B. Secondly to identify the clinical outcomes associated with a decline in HRQoL and foot and ankle PROMs.

Methods

A cross‐sectional multi‐centre questionnaire study was conducted across 18 haemophilia centres in England, Scotland and Wales with a recruitment target of 245 participants. The HAEMO‐QoL‐A and Manchester‐Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ) (foot and ankle) with total and domain scores measured impact on HRQOL and foot and ankle outcomes. Demographics, clinical characteristics, ankle haemophilia joint health scores, multi‐joint haemarthropathy and Numerical Pain Rating Scales (NPRS) of “ankle pain over the past six months” were collected as a measure of chronic ankle pain.

Results

A total of 243 of 250 participants provided complete data. HAEMO‐QoL‐A and MOXFQ (foot and ankle) total and index scores indicated worse HRQoL with total scores ranging from a mean of 35.3 to 35.8 (100 best‐health) and 50.5 to 45.8 (0 best‐health) respectively. NPRS (mean (SD)) ranged from 5.0 (2.6) to 5.5 (2.5), with median (IQR) ankle haemophilia joint health score of 4.5 (1 to 12.5) to 6.0 (3.0 to 10.0) indicating moderate to severe levels of ankle haemarthropathy. Ankle NPRS over six months and inhibitor status were associated with decline in outcome.

Conclusions

HRQoL and foot and ankle PROMs were poor in participants with moderate to severe levels of ankle haemarthropathy. Pain was a major driver for decline in HRQoL and foot and ankle PROMs and use of NPRS has the potential to predict worsening HRQoL and PROMs at the ankle and other affected joints.
Contrasting plant growth performance of invasive polyploid and native diploid Prosopis is mediated by the soil bacterial community
Authors: Kaushik Rishabh , Sharma Meesha , Ramana Ch. V. , Sasikala Ch. , Pandit Maharaj K.
Published: March 2023

Background

Soil microbial communities affect above-ground plant diversity and community composition by influencing plant growth performance. Several studies have tested the effect of soil bacterial microbiome on growth performance of native and invasive plants, but the influence of specific bacterial isolates has not been investigated. Here, we investigated the effects of soil bacterial exclusion by soil sterilization and by inoculation ofStreptomycesrhizobacterial isolates on the growth performance of native and invasiveProsopiscongeners.

Results

Plant growth performance of invasiveP. juliflorawas significantly reduced when grown in sterilized soils, whereas nativeP. cinerariashowed enhanced growth performance in the sterilized soils. When grown in the soil inoculated with the specificStreptomycesisolate fromP. juliflora(PJ1), the growth performance of invasiveP. juliflorawas significantly enhanced while that of nativeP. cinerariaseedlings was significantly reduced. However, inoculation ofP. cinerariaandP. julifloraseedlings withStreptomycesisolate from the rhizosphere of nativeP. cineraria(PC1) had no significant effect on the growth performances either ofP. julifloraorP. cineraria.

Conclusion

Our study reveals that invasive P. juliflora experiences positive feedback from the non-native soil bacterial community, while the native P. cineraria experiences negative feedback from its soil bacterial community. Our results provide fresh experimental evidence for the enemy release hypothesis, and further our understanding of the contrasting growth-promoting effects of differentially recruited microbial species belonging to the same genus (Streptomyces) in the rhizospheres of alien invasive and native plants.
A study of the oxidation mechanism of the organic pigment indigo in grottoes murals by ozone under dark conditions
Authors: Li Jiaxian , Yu Zongren , Shui Biwen , Yu Yinshui , Tian Yuan , Li Xin , Wang Runquan , Chen Wanping , Zhang Yuerong , Song Kai , Shi Gaofeng , Wang Guoying
Published: March 2023

In this paper, the organic pigments indigo and isatin were detected by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) in The Mural of Four Buddhas which is in Cave 3 from the ancient Chinese Tiantishan grottoes (Ming Dynasty, East Slope). By analysing the preservation conditions of the mural and the environmental conditions of the place where the Tiantishan grottoes are located, we speculated that the isatin detected in this mural was mainly produced by the oxidative decomposition of indigo by ozone (O3), rather than by photodegradation of indigo. We have used theoretical calculation software Gaussian09 (G09) and Amsterdam Density Functional (ADF) module in the Amsterdam Modeling Suite (AMS) software to simulate the reaction mechanism of O3 oxidation of indigo, and the end products of the oxidation of the natural plant dye indigo by O3 were identified as isatin, C16H10N2O3 and C8H6NO3 using HPLC, fluorescence spectroscopy and high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry(HPLC–MS). This finding confirmed the accuracy of the mechanism of indigo fading by O3 oxidation. These findings provided a theoretical basis for subsequent research into the derivation of natural organic dyes in the face of increasing O3 pollution and for better protection of valuable historical and cultural heritage such as ancient Chinese grottoes murals.
“Dear future woman of STEM”: letters of advice from women in STEM
Authors: Freedman Gili , Green Melanie C. , Kussman Mia , Drusano Mason , Moore Melissa M.
Published: March 2023

Background

Although a large body of research has identified challenges faced by women in STEM fields and strategies to improve the experience for women in STEM, little of this research has examined which strategies undergraduate women would recommend to their peers. In the current study, undergraduate women in STEM fields (N = 89) wrote letters to younger women in STEM about their experiences. The participants were recruited from a small public liberal arts college and a large public research institution in the United States. Participants were juniors and seniors majoring in engineering, mathematics, computer science, physics, biological or biomedical sciences, and chemistry.

Results

Using thematic analysis, we identified seven types of advice. The participants shared advice about improving academically, forming communities, finding family support, and seeking out women role models. They also provided general words of encouragement and reassured women that everyone struggles, and failure is not indicative of their potential. In some cases, the letters were consistent with themes from prior research; however, other influences that have been studied by quantitative research were not prominent in women’s own advice to their fellow students. For example, although the letters focused on communal themes such as building community, they did not focus on the communal goal of helping others through their careers. Additionally, they highlighted the role of family, which has been relatively neglected in prior work.

Conclusions

The present research highlights which empirically supported theories about retention and success in STEM are reflected in students’ advice to others. These letters also provide insight into which obstacles and solutions were most salient for women students looking back on their undergraduate STEM careers. The women’s letters provide a rich understanding of how women navigate STEM fields and what they would tell future students about persisting in those fields.
Bioengineered extracellular vesicles: future of precision medicine for sepsis
Authors: Areny-Balagueró Aina , Solé-Porta Anna , Camprubí-Rimblas Marta , Campaña-Duel Elena , Ceccato Adrián , Roig Anna , Closa Daniel , Artigas Antonio
Published: March 2023

Sepsis is a syndromic response to infection and is frequently a final common pathway to death from many infectious diseases worldwide. The complexity and high heterogeneity of sepsis hinder the possibility to treat all patients with the same protocol, requiring personalized management. The versatility of extracellular vesicles (EVs) and their contribution to sepsis progression bring along promises for one-to-one tailoring sepsis treatment and diagnosis. In this article, we critically review the endogenous role of EVs in sepsis progression and how current advancements have improved EVs-based therapies toward their translational future clinical application, with innovative strategies to enhance EVs effect. More complex approaches, including hybrid and fully synthetic nanocarriers that mimic EVs, are also discussed. Several pre-clinical and clinical studies are examined through the review to offer a general outlook of the current and future perspectives of EV-based sepsis diagnosis and treatment.
Genetic mechanisms in generalized epilepsies
Authors: Wang Xiaoqian , Rao Xueyi , Zhang Jia , Gan Jing
Published: March 2023

The genetic generalized epilepsies (GGEs) have been proved to generate from genetic impact by twin studies and family studies. The genetic mechanisms of generalized epilepsies are always updating over time. Although the genetics of GGE is complex, there are always new susceptibility genes coming up as well as copy number variations which can lead to important breakthroughs in exploring the problem. At the same time, the development of ClinGen fades out some of the candidate genes. This means we have to figure out what accounts for a reliable gene for GGE, in another word, which gene has sufficient evidence for GGE. This will improve our understanding of the genetic mechanisms of GGE. In this review, important up-to-date genetic mechanisms of GGE were discussed.
Bioenhancers from mother nature: an overview
Authors: Thorat Suvarna S. , Gujar Kishor N. , Karale Chandrakant K.
Published: March 2023

Background

The concept of bioenhancer comes from Ayurveda. Many ways have been documented in the literature to boost the bioavailability of poorly bioavailable medications, and one of the most recent techniques is the use of bioavailability enhancers.

Main body of the abstract

Herbal bioenhancers are a choice of bioenhancer in modern medicine because of their easy absorption, safety, and lack of side effects. They also reduce drug toxicity, decrease treatment times, and lower treatment costs. Increasing drug bioavailability after oral administration is medically relevant since bioavailability has a direct impact on plasma drug concentrations and therapeutic bioefficacy. When medicine is coupled with a suitable bioenhancer, the bioavailability of the drug is increased. The drug and bioenhancers have no synergistic effect. They reduce the dosage, cost, toxicity, and other side effects, as well as the amount of time it takes to act.

Short conclusion

The objective of these survey is that to investigate the thought of the bioavailability to get a superior therapeutic response within the right portion with natural pharmaceuticals containing product, as well as the classification of bioenhancers, mechanism of action, commercial formulation, and future prospects.
Rivers and Reconciliation
Authors: Lyons Kristina
Published: March 2023

This article presents an ethnographic and participatory action research project to reconstruct the “socioecological memory” of the Mandur River watershed in the Colombian Amazon. The objective of this project was to create conditions for community dialogues over the territorial ordering, recovery, and conservation of the watershed in the midst of ongoing socio-environmental conflicts. The author introduces the proposal to engage in what grassroots organizations call “profound reconciliation” along with the ethical stakes of reconciliatory processes that tend to human and more-than-human relations damaged by the interconnected dynamics of structural violence and decades of war. The author presents the environmental humanities-based methodologies that emerged in the collective process to elaborate the memory of the Mandur. The article also discusses the importance of fostering spaces for bettering conflict and offers reflections about the challenges posed for public engaged scholarship when a post–peace accord transition shifts toward the perpetuation of violence and militarized forms of conservation. Scientific and arts-based practices provided distinct evidentiary and speculative tools for analyzing the current conditions of the watershed and imagining future reparative strategies. The article argues that these methods allowed communities to not only diagnose the problems at hand but also hesitantly ask “What else is possible?” in a context of economic precarity, chronic insecurity, and institutional omission.
Subsuperficial Pectoralis Fascial Placement of Implantable Pulse Generators in Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery: Technical Note
Authors: Evans Alexander R. , Grossen Audrey A. , Prather Kiana Y. , Conner Andrew K.
Published: March 2023

BACKGROUND AND IMPORTANCE:

The second stage of deep brain stimulation requires the placement of an implantable pulse generator (IPG). Although the current placement technique achieves acceptable outcomes, device erosion has been reported. We describe a simple surgical option aimed at increasing device longevity by placing the hardware under the superficial pectoralis fascia.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION:

We describe and illustrate the technique of placing the IPG in the subfascial space in a patient undergoing deep brain stimulation. In addition, we provide pearls and pitfalls to be mindful of when implementing this method.

CONCLUSION:

In this technical report, we have outlined a simple alternative approach to the traditional subcutaneous IPG placement by placing the IPG under the superficial pectoralis fascia. This subfascial approach can potentially reduce complications and preserve device longevity.
Translating non-coding genetic associations into a better understanding of immune-mediated disease
Authors: Stankey Christina T. , Lee James C.
Published: March 2023

Genome-wide association studies have identified hundreds of genetic loci that are associated with immune-mediated diseases. Most disease-associated variants are non-coding, and a large proportion of these variants lie within enhancers. As a result, there is a pressing need to understand how common genetic variation might affect enhancer function and thereby contribute to immune-mediated (and other) diseases. In this Review, we first describe statistical and experimental methods to identify causal genetic variants that modulate gene expression, including statistical fine-mapping and massively parallel reporter assays. We then discuss approaches to characterise the mechanisms by which these variants modulate immune function, such as clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-based screens. We highlight examples of studies that, by elucidating the effects of disease variants within enhancers, have provided important insights into immune function and uncovered key pathways of disease.