bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Safety and Efficacy of the Combination Lurbinectedin plus Doxorubicin from a Phase 1b Trial in Patients with Advanced/Metastatic Soft-Tissue Sarcoma
Authors: Cote Gregory M. , Haddox Candace L. , Choy Edwin , Merriam Priscilla A. , Mazzola Emanuele , Venkataraman Vinayak , Alcindor Thierry , Wagner Andrew J. , Demetri George D. , George Suzanne
Published: May 2024

Purpose:

While cytotoxic chemotherapy is the standard first-line treatment for patients with metastatic soft-tissue sarcoma (STS), clinical outcomes remain suboptimal. Our prior study showed lurbinectedin plus doxorubicin is well tolerated with promising clinical activity in STS. We designed this phase 1b trial to optimize dosing as the basis for a randomized trial in leiomyosarcoma and to further explore the safety profile and efficacy signal.

Patients and Methods:

Patients had advanced/metastatic STS and no prior anthracycline/lurbinectedin/trabectedin. Escalation followed a 3 + 3 design with 3-week cycles: lurbinectedin (3.2 mg/m2 day 1) and two doxorubicin levels (DL1, 25 mg/m2 day 1; DL2, 25 mg/m2 days 1 and 8). The primary objectives were to identify the maximum tolerated dose and recommended dose for subsequent randomized trials.

Results:

Ten patients were enrolled in a 6-month period. The most common treatment-emergent adverse events were grade (G) 2 fatigue and nausea, and G2 cytopenias with no febrile neutropenia events. There were two dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) at DL2 [day 8 (G2 alanine aminotransferase [ALT]/aspartate aminotransferase increase, G3 neutropenia)], and one DLT in DL1 (G3 ALT increase). These were reversible and all patients continued the study. DL1 was chosen for further study. At the time of data cutoff, the estimated median progression-free survival is 16.5 months [95% confidence interval (CI), 6.0–ND]. The objective response rate was 60% (6/10 confirmed partial responses).

Conclusions:

In this phase 1b study, the recommended dose is lurbinectedin 3.2 mg/m2 in combination with doxorubicin 25 mg/m2 every 3 weeks. The study combination was well tolerated and demonstrated intriguing clinical activity.
Figure S3 from Small Extracellular Vesicles Promote Stiffness-mediated Metastasis
Authors: Sneider Alexandra , Liu Ying , Starich Bartholomew , Du Wenxuan , Nair Praful R. , Marar Carolyn , Faqih Najwa , Ciotti Gabrielle E. , Kim Joo Ho , Krishnan Sejal , Ibrahim Salma , Igboko Muna , Locke Alexus , Lewis Daniel M. , Hong Hanna , Karl Michelle N. , Vij Raghav , Russo Gabriella C. , Gómez-de-Mariscal Estibaliz , Habibi Mehran , Muñoz-Barrutia Arrate , Gu Luo , Eisinger-Mathason T.S. Karin , Wirtz Denis
Published: May 2024

Comparison of protein cargo for plastic, stiff and soft EVs
FIGURE 5 from Small Extracellular Vesicles Promote Stiffness-mediated Metastasis
Authors: Sneider Alexandra , Liu Ying , Starich Bartholomew , Du Wenxuan , Nair Praful R. , Marar Carolyn , Faqih Najwa , Ciotti Gabrielle E. , Kim Joo Ho , Krishnan Sejal , Ibrahim Salma , Igboko Muna , Locke Alexus , Lewis Daniel M. , Hong Hanna , Karl Michelle N. , Vij Raghav , Russo Gabriella C. , Gómez-de-Mariscal Estibaliz , Habibi Mehran , Muñoz-Barrutia Arrate , Gu Luo , Eisinger-Mathason T.S. Karin , Wirtz Denis
Published: May 2024

Soft EVs transform the phenotype of resident lung fibroblasts. A and B, Gene expression fold change in ACTA2, CCN2, COL1A1, IL6, KGF, MMP1, VIM, VEGFA, S100A4, S100A6, S100A10, S100A11, S100A12, S100A13, S100A14, S100A16 assessed by qRT-PCR in IMR90 human lung fibroblasts exposed to PBS only, 25 kPa EVs, and 0.5 kPa EVs. Gene expression data normalized to PBS condition. Two biological repeats. Welch ANOVA. C, Schematic showing the arrival of stiff EVs in the lung after being secreted from the primary tumor. Left panel shows a mechanically soft environment, and EVs encountering resident normal lung fibroblasts; (middle) cancer cells are then recruited to the lung; and (right) the cells, now experiencing a soft environment, release soft EVs that transform the resident fibroblasts to a CAF phenotype.
Data from Small Extracellular Vesicles Promote Stiffness-mediated Metastasis
Authors: Sneider Alexandra , Liu Ying , Starich Bartholomew , Du Wenxuan , Nair Praful R. , Marar Carolyn , Faqih Najwa , Ciotti Gabrielle E. , Kim Joo Ho , Krishnan Sejal , Ibrahim Salma , Igboko Muna , Locke Alexus , Lewis Daniel M. , Hong Hanna , Karl Michelle N. , Vij Raghav , Russo Gabriella C. , Gómez-de-Mariscal Estibaliz , Habibi Mehran , Muñoz-Barrutia Arrate , Gu Luo , Eisinger-Mathason T.S. Karin , Wirtz Denis
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Tissue stiffness is a critical prognostic factor in breast cancer and is associated with metastatic progression. Here we show an alternative and complementary hypothesis of tumor progression whereby physiologic matrix stiffness affects the quantity and protein cargo of small extracellular vesicles (EV) produced by cancer cells, which in turn aid cancer cell dissemination. Primary patient breast tissue released by cancer cells on matrices that model human breast tumors (25 kPa; stiff EVs) feature increased adhesion molecule presentation (ITGα2β1, ITGα6β4, ITGα6β1, CD44) compared with EVs from softer normal tissue (0.5 kPa; soft EVs), which facilitates their binding to extracellular matrix proteins including collagen IV, and a 3-fold increase in homing ability to distant organs in mice. In a zebrafish xenograft model, stiff EVs aid cancer cell dissemination. Moreover, normal, resident lung fibroblasts treated with stiff and soft EVs change their gene expression profiles to adopt a cancer-associated fibroblast phenotype. These findings show that EV quantity, cargo, and function depend heavily on the mechanical properties of the extracellular microenvironment.
Significance:
Here we show that the quantity, cargo, and function of breast cancer–derived EVs vary with mechanical properties of the extracellular microenvironment.
Beta Spectral Power during Passive Listening in Preschool Children with Specific Language Impairment
Authors: Fatić Saška , Stanojević Nina , Jeličić Ljiljana , Bilibajkić Ružica , Marisavljević Maša , Maksimović Slavica , Gavrilović Aleksandar , Subotić Miško
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Children with specific language impairment (SLI) have difficulties in different speech and language domains. Electrophysiological studies have documented that auditory processing in children with SLI is atypical and probably caused by delayed and abnormal auditory maturation. During the resting state, or different auditory tasks, children with SLI show low or high beta spectral power, which could be a clinical correlate for investigating brain rhythms. Methods: The aim of this study was to examine the electrophysiological cortical activity of the beta rhythm while listening to words and nonwords in children with SLI in comparison to typical development (TD) children. The participants were 50 children with SLI, aged 4 and 5 years, and 50 age matched TD children. The children were divided into two subgroups according to age: (1) children 4 years of age; (2) children 5 years of age. Results: The older group differed from the younger group in beta auditory processing, with increased values of beta spectral power in the right frontal, temporal, and parietal regions. In addition, children with SLI have higher beta spectral power than TD children in the bilateral temporal regions. Conclusion: Complex beta auditory activation in TD and SLI children indicates the presence of early changes in functional brain connectivity.
Preclinical Milestones in MECP2 Gene Transfer for Treating Rett Syndrome
Authors: Jagadeeswaran Indumathy , Oh Jiyoung , Sinnett Sarah E.
Published: May 2024

Background: Rett syndrome (RTT) is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by mutations in the transcriptional regulator methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2). After gene transfer in mice, exogenous MeCP2 expression must be regulated to avoid dose-dependent toxicity. Summary: The preclinical gene therapy literature for treating RTT illustrates a duly diligent progression that begins with proof-of-concept studies and advances toward the development of safer, regulated MECP2 viral genome designs. This design progression was partly achieved through international collaborative studies. In 2023, clinicians administered investigational gene therapies for RTT to patients a decade after the first preclinical gene therapy publications for RTT (clinical trial numbers NCT05606614 and NCT05898620). As clinicians take on a more prominent role in MECP2 gene therapy research, preclinical researchers may continue to test more nuanced hypotheses regarding the safety, efficacy, and mechanism of MECP2 gene transfer. Key Message: This review summarizes the history of preclinical MECP2 gene transfer for treating RTT and acknowledges major contributions among colleagues in the field. The first clinical injections are a shared milestone.
Comparison of different group-level templates in gradient-based multimodal connectivity analysis
Authors: Kim Sunghun , Yoo Seulki , Xie Ke , Royer Jessica , Larivière Sara , Byeon Kyoungseob , Lee Jong Eun , Park Yeongjun , Valk Sofie L. , Bernhardt Boris C. , Hong Seok-Jun , Park Hyunjin , Park Bo-yong
Published: May 2024

The study of large-scale brain connectivity is increasingly adopting unsupervised approaches that derive low-dimensional spatial representations from high-dimensional connectomes, referred to as gradient analysis. When translating this approach to study interindividual variations in connectivity, one technical issue pertains to the selection of an appropriate group-level template to which individual gradients are aligned. Here, we compared different group-level template construction strategies using functional and structural connectome data from neurotypical controls and individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to identify between-group differences. We studied multimodal magnetic resonance imaging data obtained from the Autism Brain Imaging Data Exchange (ABIDE) Initiative II and the Human Connectome Project (HCP). We designed six template construction strategies that varied in whether (1) they included typical controls in addition to ASD; or (2) they mapped from one dataset onto another. We found that aligning a combined subject template of the ASD and control subjects from the ABIDE Initiative onto the HCP template exhibited the most pronounced effect size. This strategy showed robust identification of ASD-related brain regions for both functional and structural gradients across different study settings. Replicating the findings on focal epilepsy demonstrated the generalizability of our approach. Our findings will contribute to improving gradient-based connectivity research.
Afghanistan
Authors: Rahimi Haroun
Published: May 2024

This survey provides an examination of the legal innovations introduced by the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) under the Taliban’s governance since their return to power in August 2021. In the absence of a defined constitutional text or a permanent government, the IEA’s political project centers on the double objectives of implementing classical Hanafi jurisprudence (fiqh) through modern state apparatus and maintaining control over the IEA’s burgeoning state structure. The chapter focuses on three key legal developments: The Procedure of Processing Legislative Documents, the Law on the Duties and Authorities of the High Directorate of Supervision and Prosecution of Decrees and Edicts, and the establishment of provincial Ulama councils.

The survey sheds light on the evolving legal landscape in Afghanistan under the IEA’s rule, highlighting the intricate balance between classical Hanafi jurisprudence, modern state governance, and internal control. The legal innovations analyzed provide valuable insights into the ideological and practical considerations shaping the IEA’s approach to governance in post-2021 Afghanistan.
Recent Developments concerning the Rights of Migrant Workers and of Women: a Survey of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) States Oman, Saudi Arabia and the UAE
Authors: Kanchana Radhika
Published: May 2024

The survey of the Gulf Cooperation Council states reviews some key legislative and executive measures of particularly the governments of Oman, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the year 2023 (largely between December 2022–2023). It focuses mainly on the rights of the migrant workers. Further, and in less detail, it also notes some of the developments pertinent to the rights of women. More generally, these rights are less relevant to women who are not national citizens. The GCC comprises six member countries in the Arab-Gulf region: Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, the UAE (it is a federal state comprising seven emirates namely, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Dubai, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah), Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia. These oil-producing countries have a significant proportion of foreign workforce in the population. At 88.1 per cent, the UAE has the highest proportion of migrants in its population among the GCC members (UN DESA, 2020). Foreign workers work mostly in the private sector and are also residents in the host countries. Therefore, a broader spectrum of governments’ measures relating to the issues like labour, entry and residence, and ownership of property or business touch the lives of the foreign/migrant workers or expatriates in the Gulf country. Governments’ initiatives targeting domestic workers are relevant also for women because they comprise the majority in this group. Apparently, the most prolific among the GCC countries in governmental initiatives during the surveyed period is the UAE, both concerning migrant workers and women. The Gulf states appear to have showed more responsiveness to their public image as a few important global events have happened in the region in the past year or discussion was in progress. For instance, the FIFA World Cup 2022 was hosted in Doha, Qatar from 20 November to 18 December 2022. The 28th United Nations Climate Change conference or COP28 was hosted in Dubai, the UAE from 30 November to 12 December 2023. Announced at the conclusion of the competitive bidding process in November 2023, Saudi Arabia has won the bid to host the 2030 World Expo in Riyadh from October 2030 to March 2031.
Public Law Developments in Türkiye on Its Centennial
Authors: Tekin-Apaydın Deniz
Published: May 2024

As the centennial anniversary of the Turkish Republic has been celebrated in 2023, by virtue of a dynamic interplay between law and politics both nationally and internationally, year 2023 has been a legally active one for Türkiye. The general elections and the presidential elections were held in May, and Recep Tayyip Erdoğan extended his twenty years of power by five more at the end of the second round, while AKP (Justice and Development Party, led by Erdoğan) once again became the leading political party in the Parliament. Along with the ongoing economic hardship the State is in for the last few years now, which was deteriorated with the devastating earthquakes of 6 February, and the wars in nearby countries, it may be submitted that the legal outlook has been heavily influenced by internal and external stress factors. This survey presents a selection of public law related legal developments that took place in Türkiye, between January and November of 2023.
Lythria (Microlythria subgen. nov.) venustata Staudinger, 1882 (Lepidoptera: Geometridae): distribution and description of the female, with a brief review of the genus
Authors: MAKHOV I.A. , GORBUNOV P.YU. , LUKHTANOV V.A.
Published: May 2024

The article provides new localities for the little-known species Lythria venustata Staudinger, 1882; a map with all currently known locations is presented. A new subgenus, Microlythria subgen. nov., within Lythria Hübner is proposed for L. venustata. A morphological description of L. venustata female and illustration of its genital structure are given for the first time; some corrections in the description of the male genitalia are made. Both male and female genitalia of all other species of the genus are also shown, and a comparison of L. venustata with its congeners is made. Colour plates depicting males and females of all species of the genus Lythria are provided. The systematic position of the genus in the family Geometridae, and the implication of the features of L. venustata female genitalia for tribal association within the Sterrhinae are discussed. Identification keys (based on external morphology and genital structure) to Lythria species are given.
One new species of Imitomyia Townsend and five newly recorded species of Dexiinae (Diptera: Tachinidae) from China
Authors: LI JUNJIAN , LI YUE , NIE XUTONG , ZHANG CHUNTIAN
Published: May 2024

During our study of the Chinese Fauna of Diptera, many specimens from the subfamily Dexiinae were examined. One new species was recognized, Imitomyia wangi sp. nov. Additionally, five species, Actinochaetopteryx patellipalpis Richter, Chetoptilia puella (Rondani), Leptothelaira longicaudata Mesnil & Shima, Phyllomya takanoi Mesnil and Rutilia (Chrysorutilia) rubriceps Macquart, are newly recorded in China. Their descriptions, illustration and diagnoses are given.
A Flexible, Multi-Instrument Optimal Estimation Retrieval for Wind Profiles
Authors: Gebauer Joshua G. , Bell Tyler M.
Published: May 2024

Instruments such as Doppler lidars, radar wind profilers, and uncrewed aircraft systems could be used in observation networks to fill in the temporal and spatial gap that exists for low-level wind observations. These instruments, however, do not directly observe the wind and require a retrieval to be used to obtain wind estimates from their observations. Also, the depth and uncertainty of observations collected by these instruments vary depending on the environment that they are sampling. Optimal estimation is a variational retrieval method that combines information from a prior dataset and observations to retrieve an atmospheric state. This technique can be beneficial to use when observations have large uncertainties or provide insufficient information to obtain the atmospheric state by themselves. A new optimal estimation retrieval for obtaining wind profiles from typical lower atmospheric wind profiling instrumentation has been developed. This retrieval allows for more observations from wind profiling instrumentation to be used when retrieving wind profiles, increases the depth of retrieved profiles, and eliminates vertical data gaps. This retrieval can also be used to easily combine observations from different instruments or even with model data to create combined data wind retrievals that leverage the strengths of the different data sources to retrieve a wind profile that is superior to those obtained by the individual observations or data sources. It is envisioned that this retrieval will be continued to be developed and maintained as community software as lower atmospheric wind observing capabilities further develop and expand.
Gender Conundrum and Unpaid Work in India: Empirical Evidence from India’s First Large-scale Time Use Survey
Authors: Sahu Dakrushi
Published: May 2024

The study was aimed at (a) exploring the anomalies in conceptualising and measuring work, especially that of the women, (b) analysing the patterns of unpaid work distribution between men and women, and (c) examining the drivers of time spent on unpaid work in India. It has been argued that the under-conceptualisation of work and the methodological constraints led to invisibilising several activities, mostly performed by girls and women, in the prevailing labour force statistics and national income accountings. We have noted that such anomalies could be overcome with the advancement of robust statistical tools like that of time use survey. By employing the first and the most recent pan time use survey, conducted by the National Sample Survey Organization across the country in 2019, we have assessed the gender patterns of unpaid work and its determinants. We found the existence of a stark gender gap both in terms of participation and average time spent on unpaid work across rural and urban regions. Again, the findings, obtained through the Tobit regression model, reveal that the nature of the association and the extent of time allocated to unpaid work vary substantially across the demographic and socio-economic characteristics.

JEL Codes: J22, J21, J40, J46, C10
The Role of Public Assistance in Improving Food Security During Covid-19 in Togo
Authors: Gnedeka Kodjo Théodore , Douvi Edem
Published: May 2024

This paper provides insights into the potential implication of public assistance on food insecurity in the Togolese population during the Covid-19 period. The Oaxaca–Blinder Non-Linear decomposition technique and binary logit model were applied to Data of Round 8 of Afrobarometer of Togo. The empirical results reveal that women were more food insecure in Togo during the Covid-19 period. This particular vulnerability of women was explained by the difference in economic resources, place of residence, and response measures put in place by the State. However, the public assistance received has helped to reduce the gaps observed in food insecurity. The study reveals the importance of public assistance measures, especially those based on gender, during shocks that may occur in an economy.
Varicose vein treatment reduces edema not only in the treated legs but also in the entire body
Authors: Tomita Shinji , Mizukami Takuya , Koyama Yutaka , Inagaki Masahiro , Ozoe Satoki , Okawa Yasuhide
Published: May 2024

Objectives

We explored the connection between varicose vein and edema, by investigating extracellular water ratio (E/T) using bioelectrical impedance analysis.

Methods

In a prospective cohort study 120 patients underwent varicose vein surgery with extracellular fluid to total body water ratio (E/T) and E/T postop divided by E/Tpreop (E/T ratio) measured using a body composition analyzer. Edema was defined as E/T ≥0.390. Seventy-nine patients received unilateral treatment, while 41 underwent bilateral. p < .05 is statistically significant.

Results

Preoperatively, patients exhibited edema (E/T) in the treated leg (0.394 ± 0.009), untreated leg (0.392 ± 0.009), trunk (0.390 ± 0.007), and whole body (0.391 ± 0.007). Postoperatively, E/T decreased across body ( p < .05). The lowest E/T ratio was observed in the treated leg (0.991 ± 0.012), followed by the untreated leg (0.994 ± 0.012), the trunk (0.995 ± 0.009), and the whole body (0.994 ± 0.009). E/T ratio of bilateral group were lower than unilateral group ( p < .05).

Conclusion

Varicose vein contributes to generalized edema, and treatment alleviates edema in the treated leg and the entire body.
The genitourinary system in ancient Greece: a historical perspective
Authors: Tsili Athina C , Benekos Thomas , Argyropoulou Maria I
Published: May 2024

The Ancient Greeks were great innovators in all academic fields, including medicine. Hippocrates of Kos, the Father of Medicine, established many terms for the genitourinary (GU) system, such as nephros, urethra, urogenital, and adenocarcinoma. According to Hesiod's Theogony, Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, was born off the coast of Kythera, from the foam produced by Uranus's genitals, after his son Cronus had thrown them into to the sea. In this review, we present the etymology of the GU vocabulary, review the Ancient Greeks’ understanding of the GU system and the origins of Greek myths related to the male genitals.
Characterization of Asphalt Filler Mastics with Industrial By-Products as Fillers under the Coupled Effect of Aging and Moisture
Authors: Dash Saswat Biswapriya , Choudhary Rajan , Kumar Ankush , Sharma Ashish
Published: May 2024

An asphalt mix comprises asphalt binder and aggregates of different sizes (coarse and fine) and filler. Even with a smaller share, filler plays a crucial role in the performance of asphalt-filler mastics. The study is motivated by the growing need to preserve natural resources and aims to investigate the utilization of four different industrial by-products/wastes (electric arc furnace slag filler, basic oxygen furnace slag filler, tire pyrolysis char filler, and plastic pyrolysis char filler, and one conventional natural stone aggregate filler (NSAF) in asphalt-filler mastics. Four conditioning environments were used to characterize the chemo-rheological properties of the mastics formulated by these five different fillers: unaged, long-term aged, freeze-thaw, and freeze-thaw of long-term aged mastics. To understand the significance of filler attributes in the filler-asphalt mastic performance, a correlation between various filler characteristics (specific surface area, Rigden voids, methylene blue value, and hydrophilic coefficient) and the mastic properties (multiple stress creep and recovery, linear amplitude sweep, binder yield energy test, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) was also attempted. The fatigue life and elastic recovery of the mastics were negatively affected by the combined effects of aging and moisture. The filler characteristics showed a negligible-to-low association with fatigue parameters and a good correlation with rutting performance. The use of these industry co-products/by-products as fillers is supported by the superior rutting and fatigue performance of steel slag and pyrolytic char fillers compared with the traditional NSAF.
Relaxation behavior of thin-ply high strain composites using a dynamic mechanical analyzer based column bending test
Authors: Islam Rashedul , Radford Donald W , Rodriguez Patrick , Murphey Thomas W
Published: May 2024

Deployable space structures made from thin-ply high-strain composite (HSC) laminates can be compactly stowed, but prolonged stowage under high curvature can alter their deployed shape due to relaxation. In this research, a dynamic mechanical analyzer-based column bending test (CBT) method, with a custom-developed fixture was used to characterize the relaxation behavior of thin-ply HSCs. Four laminate configurations were prepared from thin-ply unidirectional IM7/PMT-F7 and Astroquartz/PMT-F7 prepregs: (i) IM7/PMT-F7 [0°], (ii) Astroquartz/PMT-F7 [±45°], (iii) Flexlam [±45°/0°/±45°] and (iv) Flexlam [±45°/90°/±45°]. Surface strains of 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0% were sequentially applied to the specimen for 100-min durations, each separated by a 1000-min recovery period. This stepped strain approach was performed at 30°C, 50°C, and 70°C. The relaxation results indicate that the fiber-dominated test configuration, UD IM7/PMT-F7 [0°] lamina, shows no measurable relaxation. However, the matrix-dominated configurations, Astroquartz/PMT-F7 [±45°] lamina and the Flexlam laminates, show measurable relaxation. The Flexlam laminates show less relaxation than the Astroquartz/PMT-F7 [±45°] lamina due to the inclusion of unidirectional IM7 carbon fiber. The result also indicates that the relaxation behavior is time and strain-dependent, not temperature-dependent.
Bowel Emergencies in Patients With Cancer
Authors: Hughes Hannah , Jajodia Ankush , Soyer Philippe , Mellnick Vincent , Patlas Michael N.
Published: May 2024

Cancer is the second most common cause of death worldwide. Bowel emergencies in patients with cancer are becoming increasingly more prevalent due to advances in cancer therapy and longer overall patient survival. When these patients present acutely, they are often frail and may have pre-existing co-morbidities. This article discusses the imaging features of bowel emergencies commonly encountered in oncological patients in clinical practice. These include chemotherapy related colitis, neutropenia enterocolitis and typhlitis, toxic megacolon, bowel perforation, malignant bowel obstruction and gastrointestinal haemorrhage. The radiologist plays a key role in identifying these oncological emergencies and guiding further management.
Social Support Network and Sedentary Behavior Among US Adults With and Without Mobility Impairment
Authors: Stapleton Jessie N. , Richardson M. Ryan
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Evidence suggests that sedentary behavior is increased among those with mobility impairment, but the evidence examining the impact of social support networks (SSN) on this relationship remains limited. This study examines the relationship between SSN and sedentary behavior among adults with and without mobility impairment.

Design

Cross-sectional.

Setting

National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2007-2008.

Subjects

U.S. adults (≥40 years of age) with (n = 962) and without (n = 1393) mobility impairment.

Measures

The Social Support Network (SSN) score was created using self-reported emotional, financial, church, friends, and marital support/status. The dependent variable in this study was the upper quartile of sedentary time in minutes.

Results

Both higher SSN score (AOR .43; 95% CI 0.25-.76, P = .045) and poverty to income ratio (PIR) (AOR 2.60; 95% CI 1.40-4.82, P = .01) were significant predictors of increased sedentary time among adults with mobility impairment. Among adults without mobility impairment, higher PIR was the only significant predictor of increased sedentary time (OR 3.59; 95% Cl 1.80-7.15, P < .0001).

Conclusion

Higher SSN score was associated with significantly lower odds of increased sedentary time among adults with mobility impairment. A similar relationship was not revealed among adults without mobility impairment. Higher PIR was associated with significantly higher odds of increased sedentary time among adults with and without mobility impairment.
Like Water: Feeling and Negotiating Relational Complexity in School-Based Ethnographic Childhood Research in China Through the Lens of Emotional Reflexivity
Authors: Zhu Yan , Wang Yuchen
Published: May 2024

Ethnography is often considered as a suitable methodological approach to explore childhoods, nevertheless, there is limited reflection on ethics in the field in the Global South educational settings, such as China. Previous China-based fieldwork studies suggest complex field relationships as a major ethical challenge. Although the issue is especially prominent in research that contests “normative” Chinese childhoods, it hasn’t been sufficiently discussed due to a culture of silence surrounding researchers’ emotions and positionality. This paper uses emotional reflexivity as a lens to revisit two Chinese female researchers’ experiences of fieldwork, respectively, with left-behind children and disabled children in Chinese primary schools. The analysis examines how we identified ourselves and negotiated complex relationships with school members and unpacks experiences of “sameness” and “otherness” and the vulnerability and creditability impacted by our fluid identities. The paper adds insights into ethical considerations of school-based ethnographic research with diverse children in the Global South.
Demographic, socioeconomic, and health structure factors associated with the use of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis in Brazil: A nationwide ecological study
Authors: Rodrigues Silvia Sant’Ana , de Andrade Ana Fátima Souza Melo , da Silva Kelly , da Silva Ângela Maria , Martins-Filho Paulo Ricardo
Published: May 2024

Aims: To assess the cumulative rate of HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) users in Brazil since its 2018 implementation and to analyze the association between PrEP usage and state-level structural factors. Methods: A nationwide ecological study from 2018 to 2022 was conducted, examining the 5-year cumulative rate of PrEP users in relation to demographic, socioeconomic, and healthcare infrastructure variables. Multiple linear regression analysis identified significant predictors of PrEP utilization. Results: Between 2018 and 2022, 124,796 individuals used PrEP, with a cumulative rate of 61.5 per 100,000 population. The highest usage was in Minas Gerais, São Paulo, and Santa Catarina, while the lowest was in Distrito Federal, Maranhão, and Alagoas. Regression analysis showed that higher PrEP usage was associated with lower population density, a younger median age, a lower male to female ratio, and reduced social vulnerability. Additionally, PrEP usage was positively associated with the density of medical doctors and the number of dispensing units. Conclusions: The study reveals significant regional disparities in PrEP usage across Brazil, influenced by socioeconomic and healthcare factors. It highlights the need for targeted public health strategies to enhance PrEP access and uptake, especially in socially vulnerable regions.
Neural Signatures of Evidence Accumulation Encode Subjective Perceptual Confidence Independent of Performance
Authors: Dou Wei , Martinez Arango Lleymi J. , Castaneda Olenka Graham , Arellano Leopoldo , Mcintyre Emily , Yballa Claire , Samaha Jason
Published: May 2024

Confidence is an adaptive computation when environmental feedback is absent, yet there is little consensus regarding how perceptual confidence is computed in the brain. Difficulty arises because confidence correlates with other factors, such as accuracy, response time (RT), or evidence quality. We investigated whether neural signatures of evidence accumulation during a perceptual choice predict subjective confidence independently of these factors. Using motion stimuli, a central-parietal positive-going electroencephalogram component (CPP) behaves as an accumulating decision variable that predicts evidence quality, RT, accuracy, and confidence (Experiment 1, N = 25 adults). When we psychophysically varied confidence while holding accuracy constant (Experiment 2, N = 25 adults), the CPP still predicted confidence. Statistically controlling for RT, accuracy, and evidence quality (Experiment 3, N = 24 adults), the CPP still explained unique variance in confidence. The results indicate that a predecision neural signature of evidence accumulation, the CPP, encodes subjective perceptual confidence in decision-making independent of task performance.
Navigating the diagnostic maze: A case presentation of C1q vasculitis mimicking hypocomplementemic urticarial vasculitis in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Castellanos-Molina Veronica , Gomez Alejandra , Mejía Maddy , Toquica Alejandra , Bernal-Macías Santiago
Published: May 2024

In rare instances, patients with SLE may exhibit atypical clinical manifestations, such as Hypocomplementemic Urticarial Vasculitis, which can pose diagnostic challenges. Here, we present a case report of a 28-year-old female with a history of SLE with lupus nephritis clase IV who developed HUV-like symptoms, ultimately leading to a diagnosis of C1q Vasculitis. This case underscores the importance of considering C1q Vasculitis in SLE patients presenting with HUV-like features and highlights Rituximab as a promising therapeutic option for managing this rare condition.
Fraxinus excelsior L. for Prevention of Capecitabine-induced Enterocolitis in Rat: An Integrated Biochemical, Molecular, and Histopathological Study
Authors: Li Li , Tan HaiYan , Su TianLu
Published: May 2024

Background

Chemotherapy drugs damage intestinal cells, weakening the intestinal barrier. This damage results in higher permeability, which enables bacteria and toxins to enter the intestinal tissue.

Purpose

This study aimed to explore the protective effects of Fraxinus excelsior L. (F. excelsior) extract against Capecitabine (CT)-induced enterocolitis.

Materials and Methods

Fifty Wistar rats were divided into five groups: sham, F. excelsior (750 mg/kg orally), CT (500 mg/kg orally), and two co-treatment groups receiving CT with F. excelsior (500 and 750 mg/kg orally). After 50 days, rats were sacrificed, and blood samples were collected for various analyses. Biochemical assessments included measurements of serum nitric oxide, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide mutase enzymes. Tissue oxidative stress was evaluated through FRAP, thiol, and TBARS levels. Pro-inflammatory cytokines were quantified using ELISA, and apoptosis was assessed through the evalution of p53/Bax/Bcl-2 pathway. Histopathological examination affirmed the preservation of tissue structure in groups treated with F. excelsior extract.

Results

F. excelsior extract reduced intestinal cell apoptosis and elevated the expression of intestinal aquaporin (AQP) genes/proteins by enhancing antioxidant enzymes and diminishing free radicals. Additionally, the extract modulated inflammatory cytokine levels, regulated antidiuretic hormone (ADH) and arginine vasopressin (AVP) levels, maintaining serum and intestinal osmotic balance. The study also revealed decreased expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and a positive impact on water homeostasis-related genes (AQP3, AQP8, AQP10).

Conclusion

The study concludes that F. excelsior extract exhibits potential benefits in treating enterocolitis in individuals undergoing chemotherapy, emphasizing its ability to mitigate oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and maintain osmotic balance.
Huanglian Jiedu Decoction Inhibits LPS-induced Neuroinflammation and Attenuates the Activation of NLRP3 Inflammasome in BV2 Cells
Authors: Wang Junli , Wang Rui , Du Yaming , Xu Xinzi , Liu Xin , Shao Wei , Chen Guohua
Published: May 2024

Background

Huanglian Jiedu decoction (HLJDD) is a classical herbal formula for treating inflammatory diseases with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). However, the impacts of HLJDD on neuroinflammation and the precise mechanisms involved remain poorly understood.

Purpose

In the present study, HLJDD was found to inhibit lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced neuroinflammatory responses in BV2 microglia via regulating NLRP3 inflammasome activation.

Materials and Methods

Anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated with ELISA assay and the polarization changes were observed using immunofluorescent staining. The levels of NLRP3 inflammasome activation were determined using qPCR and Western blotting.

Results

The administration of HLJDD successfully countered LPS-induced neuroinflammatory responses by attenuating microglial activation and fostering a phenotypic conversion from the pro-inflammatory M1 to the anti-inflammatory M2. Additionally, HLJDD treatment demonstrated inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome activation.

Conclusion

The findings of the present study may provide insights into how HLJDD could be a therapeutic drug for neuroinflammatory diseases associated with regulating NLRP3 inflammasome and microglial activation.
Detection of macropodid alphaherpesvirus 2 infection and lesions in sudden death of a captive Virginia opossum and a water opossum
Authors: Debrincat Steven , Rejmanek Daniel , Wünschmann Arno , Crossley Beate M. , Jelinski Jennifer , Armién Anibal G.
Published: May 2024

Macropodid alphaherpesvirus 2 (MaAHV2) is best described in macropods and has been implicated in outbreaks among captive marsupial populations in Australia. Natural disease caused by herpesviruses has not been reported previously in opossum species, to our knowledge. One Virginia opossum ( Didelphis virginiana) and 1 water opossum ( Chironectes minimus) were submitted for postmortem examination from a zoo that housed 6 opossums, all of which died within several weeks. Red kangaroos ( Macropus rufus) and red-necked wallabies ( Macropus rufogriseus) were also present at the facility. Liver samples from both opossums were submitted for transmission electron microscopy and whole-genome sequencing. Microscopically, both opossums had multifocal necrosis in the liver and lung, with intranuclear inclusion bodies within hepatocytes and pneumocytes. Another significant finding in the Virginia opossum was sepsis, with isolation of Streptococcus didelphis from various organs. Ultrastructural analysis of formalin-fixed liver tissue identified herpesviral replication complexes in both opossums; negative-stain electron microscopy of unfixed liver tissue repeatedly yielded a negative result. The herpesvirus had >99% nucleotide identity with MaAHV2. These 2 cases indicate that both opossum species are susceptible to MaAHV2 infection, and the outbreak has implications for mixed-species facilities that house macropods.
A Qualitative Analysis of the Effects of COVID-19 on Home Visiting Service Provision
Authors: Belachew Bethelhem , Damashek Amy , Presberry Joi , O’Rourke Brenda , Bautista Terra M. , Kothari Catherine
Published: May 2024

Home visiting programs have been found to improve parenting practices and to reduce negative child outcomes. The 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) resulted in an abrupt transition to telehealth services for many home visiting services. Limited research has examined the impacts of delivering home visiting services via telehealth, and the effects of this abrupt transition during COVID-19 is understudied as well. This study examined the impact of the abrupt transition to telehealth as a result of COVID-19 on home visiting service provision in one mid-sized midwestern community from the perspective of clients and providers. We conducted semi-structured interviews with both home visiting clients and providers ( N = 26) in prevention-focused home visiting services. Although some benefits to telehealth were reported, providers discussed challenges with regard to engaging clients in services and difficulties in completing important home visiting tasks (i.e., assessment of child development, teaching parent-child interaction). Providers and clients also noted that they missed face-to-face interactions. Effective use of telehealth in home visiting requires provision of devices that allow for video-chatting as well as development of effective methods to engage in observation and teaching tasks.
In Celebration of Norman K. Denzin: Scholar, Teacher, Mentor, and Friend
Authors: Giardina Michael D.
Published: May 2024

In this Editorial, the author introduces the special memorial issue in honor of Norman K. Denzin and highlights Denzin’s contributions to the field of qualitative research.
Liposomal amphotericin for secondary prophylaxis: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Javandoust Gharehbagh Farid , Roshanzamiri Soheil , Farjami Mohammad , Hatami Firouze , Lotfollahi Legha , Kazeminia Neda , Hatami Fatemeh , Shokouhi Shervin , Alavi Darazam Ilad
Published: May 2024

Introduction

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the safety of liposomal amphotericin B (L-AMB) compared to other antifungal agents for secondary prophylaxis.

Method

We conducted a comprehensive search across international databases and reference lists of articles to compile all relevant published evidence evaluating the efficacy and safety of L-AMB versus other antifungals (NLAMB) for secondary prophylaxis against invasive fungal infections. Pooled estimates were calculated after data transformation to evaluate mortality, breakthrough infections, and the frequency of adverse effects, including hypokalemia and nephrotoxicity. Comparisons of breakthrough fungal infection and mortality between the L-AMB and NLAMB groups were performed.

Result

We identified 10 studies. The cumulative frequency of patients using L-AMB was 148, compared to 341 patients in the NLAMB group. The mortality rates in the L-AMB and NLAMB groups were 10% and 0%, respectively. However, based on the odds ratio, the mortality in the L-AMB group was lower than that in the NLAMB group. No significant difference was observed in breakthrough invasive fungal infections between the L-AMB and NLAMB groups. The frequencies of nephropathy and hypokalemia in the L-AMB group were 36% and 18%, respectively.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate a lower incidence of mortality in the L-AMB group compared to the NLAMB group. No statistically significant difference was observed in the incidence of breakthrough infection between the two groups. L-AMB administration is associated with nephropathy and hypokalemia. However, the refusal to continue treatment due to adverse effects is not significantly high.
Characterizing Tobacco Usage in Otolaryngology Patients to Target Smoking Cessation Efforts
Authors: Kulkarni Pallavi , Dao Joseph , King Tonya S. , Yingst Jessica , Choi Karen Y.
Published: May 2024

Objective

Smoking cessation is critical in reducing incidence of head and neck cancers (HNC) and improving postoperative outcomes. Accurate documentation of tobacco usage is necessary to understand prevalence in patients to target smoking cessation. This study aims to characterize tobacco usage documentation, including electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) use, among otolaryngology patients.

Study Design

Retrospective chart review.

Setting

Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center (PSHMC).

Methods

A retrospective chart review was conducted on adult otolaryngology patients seen from January 1, 2020 – December 31, 2020. Patient demographics, details of alcohol and tobacco usage, including type of tobacco, and subspecialty seen were collected. Associations were evaluated using chi-square tests and a multivariable logistic regression model.

Results

Patients (n = 2137) were an average of 58.4 years old ±18.0, 59.3% female, and 78.0% white. Of participants with documented tobacco history (n = 944), 56.7% were never users, 28.9% were former users, and 14.4% were current users. Among current users (n = 308), 86.4% used cigarettes, and 5.2% used ENDS. The remainder used chew (4.9%) and cigars (3.25%). Odds of tobacco use were 1.5x greater for males (95% CI 1.19-2.00), 1.6x greater for unmarried patients (95% CI 1.24-2.09), 2.1x greater for those with no insurance vs government (95% CI 1.43-3.18), and 2.4x greater for those diagnosed with HNC (95% CI 1.64-3.49).

Conclusion

Most patients report cigarette smoking when asked about tobacco use. Taking into consideration the rise of ENDS use, our sample showed ENDS use that was higher than the national average. There is significant opportunity for improved history taking, especially within general and head and neck oncology subspecialties for more comprehensive treatment.
Determining pre-procedure fasting alert time using procedural and scheduling data
Authors: Zheng Litong , Beck J Christopher , Mafeld Sebastian , Parotto Matteo , Matthews Amanda , Alexandre Sheryl , Conway Aaron
Published: May 2024

Before a medical procedure requiring anesthesia, patients are required to not eat or drink non-clear fluids for 6 h and not drink clear fluids for 2 h. Fasting durations in standard practice far exceed these minimum thresholds due to uncertainties in procedure start time. The aim of this retrospective, observational study was to compare fasting durations arising from standard practice with different approaches for calculating the timepoint at which patients are instructed to stop eating and drinking. Scheduling data for procedures performed in the cardiac catheterization laboratory of an academic hospital in Canada (January 2020 to April 2022) were used. Four approaches utilizing machine learning (ML) and simulation were used to predict procedure start times and calculate when patients should be instructed to start fasting. Median fasting duration for standard practice was 10.08 h (IQR 3.5) for both food and clear fluids intake. The best performing alternative approach, using tree-based ML models to predict procedure start time, reduced median fasting from food/non-clear fluids to 7.7 h (IQR 2) and clear liquids fasting to 3.7 h (IQR 2.4). 97.3% met the minimum fasting duration requirements (95% CI 96.9% to 97.6%). Further studies are required to determine the effectiveness of operationalizing this approach as an automated fasting alert system.