bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication and Construction
Authors:   Commentary Task Group
Published: December 2023

This section describes the provisions of the Code for Concrete Reactor Vessels and Containments as related to fabrication and construction.
Teacher-Coaches in an Australian Regional Independent School: An Exploratory Case Study
Authors: Johnson Matthew G. , Stylianou Michalis , Mallett Clifford J.
Published: December 2023

Grounded in role socialization theory, we examined the perceptions of teacher-coaches at an Australian independent, regional school regarding the challenges and opportunities associated with performing this dual role. This interpretivist exploratory case study was conducted with 10 teacher-coaches of various backgrounds and experience levels. Data were collected through semistructured interviews and analyzed using a data-driven reflexive thematic analysis. Three themes were identified: (a) teacher-coaches preferred teaching over coaching, and a mismatch existed between administrators’ position and teacher-coaches’ perceptions of school practice; (b) participants identified enhanced relationships with students and career enhancement as opportunities in performing the dual roles; and (c) perceived challenges included time pressures, insufficient coaching preparation, and development opportunities. Findings highlight the complexities in successfully navigating the dual role in this context. Consideration of role preferences, challenges and opportunities, and localized coaching supports may help optimize teacher-coach, student, and school outcomes.
Exploring Blind and Visually Impaired Students’ Views on How to Improve Physical Education
Authors: Keene M. Ally , Haegele Justin A. , Ball Lindsay E. , Nowland Lindsey A. , Zhu Xihe
Published: December 2023

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore blind and visually impaired students’ opinions on ways to improve physical education. Method: Twenty-two blind and visually impaired youth (age 12–17 years) completed one-to-one interviews. Three themes were constructed using a reflexive thematic analysis approach. Findings: The first theme depicted participants’ views that physical education was a break during the day that did not have educational benefits. In the second theme, the participants highlighted communication and collaboration as important elements that could improve their experiences. The final theme centered on the nonexistent, insufficient, or demoralizing nature of seldom existing accommodations. Discussion: Blind and visually impaired students noted aspects of curriculum content, communication, and accommodations in physical education that may be changed to enhance their experiences, which largely centered on their physical educators’ behaviors.
Providing Support to First-Year Graduate Teaching Assistants: What Do They Really Need?
Authors: Brock Sheri J. , Miller Brenna Cosgrove , Hollett Nikki , Grimes Jessica R. , Moore Michele
Published: December 2023

Purpose: Graduate teaching assistants (GTAs) often play a vital role in the delivery of university programs, yet GTAs may lack pedagogical experience. The purpose of this study was to explore the perceptions of GTAs during their first semester of university teaching. Specifically, we provide a descriptive account of the GTAs’ lived experiences and how departments can best prepare GTAs. Method: Four first-year GTAs at a university in the United States participated in the study. Data collection included participant journals, focus group interviews, and individual interviews. Results: Utilizing situated learning theory as a theoretical frame, data sources generated four themes. GTAs reported positive experiences as ample support was provided, expectations were outlined, experiential learning occurred, and confidence increased through the establishment of routines. Discussion/Conclusion: Findings indicated that GTAs can acclimate to their new universities and responsibilities with guidance, resources, and support.
A molecular sieve with ultrafast adsorption kinetics for propylene separation
Authors: Cui Jiyu , Zhang Zhaoqiang , Yang Lifeng , Hu Jianbo , Jin Anye , Yang Zhenglu , Zhao Yue , Meng Biao , Zhou Yu , Wang Jun , Su Yun , Wang Jun , Cui Xili , Xing Huabin
Published: December 2023

The design of molecular sieves is vital for gas separation, but it suffers from a long-standing issue of slow adsorption kinetics due to the intrinsic contradiction between molecular sieving and diffusion within restricted nanopores. We report a molecular sieve ZU-609 with local sieving channels that feature molecular sieving gates and rapid diffusion channels. The precise cross-sectional cutoff of molecular sieving gates enables the exclusion of propane from propylene. The coexisting large channels constituted by sulfonic anions and helically arranged metal-organic architectures allow the fast adsorption kinetics of propylene, and the measured propylene diffusion coefficient in ZU-609 is one to two orders of magnitude higher than previous molecular sieves. Propylene with 99.9% purity is obtained through breakthrough experiments with a productivity of 32.2 L kg
−1
.
Emission and coherent control of Levitons in graphene
Authors: Assouline A. , Pugliese L. , Chakraborti H. , Lee Seunghun , Bernabeu L. , Jo M. , Watanabe K. , Taniguchi T. , Glattli D. C. , Kumada N. , Sim H.-S. , Parmentier F. D. , Roulleau P.
Published: December 2023

Flying qubits encode quantum information in propagating modes instead of stationary discrete states. Although photonic flying qubits are available, the weak interaction between photons limits the efficiency of conditional quantum gates. Conversely, electronic flying qubits can use Coulomb interactions, but the weaker quantum coherence in conventional semiconductors has hindered their realization. In this work, we engineered on-demand injection of a single electronic flying qubit state and its manipulation over the Bloch sphere. The flying qubit is a Leviton propagating in quantum Hall edge channels of a high-mobility graphene monolayer. Although single-shot qubit readout and two-qubit operations are still needed for a viable manipulation of flying qubits, the coherent manipulation of an itinerant electronic state at the single-electron level presents a highly promising alternative to conventional qubits.
The history of the Coast Salish “woolly dogs”
Authors: Orlando Ludovic
Published: December 2023

DNA and traditional knowledge reveal the history of an extinct dog bred for its wool
In Other Journals
Authors: Smith H. Jesse , Uzogara Ekeoma , Kelly Priscilla N. , McCartney Melissa , Ash Caroline , Stern Peter , Szuromi Phil
Published: December 2023

Editors’ selections from the current scientific literature
Their budget bursting, U.S. particle physicists dream small
Authors: Cho Adrian
Published: December 2023

New effort to study big bang afterglow heads to-do list
Do tiny black holes from cosmic dawn hide within giant stars?
Authors: Mann Adam
Published: December 2023

Idea could account for universe’s mysterious dark matter
Oteseconazole versus fluconazole for the treatment of severe vulvovaginal candidiasis: a multicenter, randomized, double-blinded, phase 3 trial
Authors: Wang Xiaoqian , Chen Lihong , Ruan Hongjie , Xiong Zhengai , Wang Wenying , Qiu Jin , Song Weihua , Zhang Chunlian , Xue Fengxia , Qin Tianhua , Zhang Bei , An Ruifang , Luo Xiping , Wang Wei , Zhang Songling , Cai Yunlang , Kang Jiali , Deng Henan , Fan Shangrong , Cui Manhua , Wang Shijin , Luo Xiaowan , Su Zhiying , Shu Jing , Wang Quanren , Wang Fang , Bai Jianling , Liao Qinping
Published: December 2023

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a common condition among women. Fluconazole remains the dominant treatment option for VVC. Oteseconazole is a highly selective inhibitor of fungal CYP51. This randomized, double-blinded, phase 3 trial was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of oteseconazole compared with fluconazole in treating severe VVC. Female subjects presenting with vulvovaginal signs and symptoms score of ≥7 and positive
Candida
infection determined by potassium hydroxide test or Gram staining were randomly assigned to receive oteseconazole (600 mg on D1 and 450 mg on D2) or fluconazole (150 mg on D1 and D4) in a 1:1 ratio. The primary endpoint was the proportion of subjects achieving therapeutic cure [defined as achieving both clinical cure (absence of signs and symptoms of VVC) and mycological cure (negative culture of
Candida
species)] at D28. A total of 322 subjects were randomized and 321 subjects were treated. At D28, a statistically significantly higher proportion of subjects achieved therapeutic cure in the oteseconazole group than in the fluconazole group (66.88% vs 45.91%;
P
= 0.0002). Oteseconazole treatment resulted in an increased proportion of subjects achieving mycological cure (82.50% vs 59.12%;
P
< 0.0001) and clinical cure (71.25% vs 55.97%;
P
= 0.0046) compared with fluconazole. The incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events was similar between the two groups. No subjects discontinued study treatment or withdrew study due to adverse events. Oteseconazole showed statistically significant and clinically meaningful superiority over fluconazole for the treatment of severe VVC and was generally tolerated.
Systematic functional analysis of the Com pilus in
Streptococcus sanguinis
: a minimalistic type 4 filament dedicated to DNA uptake in monoderm bacteria
Authors: Mom Jeremy , Chouikha Iman , Valette Odile , Pieulle Laetitia , Pelicic Vladimir
Published: December 2023

Type 4 filaments (T4F) are a superfamily of versatile nanomachines, ubiquitous in prokaryotes, which use conserved multi-protein machineries to assemble and operate filamentous polymers of type 4 pilins. In the best-studied T4F, these machineries are complex, which has posed challenges to understanding the mechanisms of filament assembly and their multiple functions. Here, we report the systematic functional analysis of the Com pilus, a widespread T4F mediating DNA uptake during natural transformation in monoderm bacteria. Using
Streptococcus sanguinis
, we show that Com pili are
bona fide
type 4 pili (T4P), representing a new pilus sub-type. We show that with only eight components necessary for pilus assembly and functioning—all “core” proteins universally conserved in this superfamily—the Com pilus epitomizes a minimalistic T4F. We further demonstrate that core T4F components are sufficient for filament assembly. Paradoxically, akin to the more elaborate T4F, the Com pilus contains four minor pilins forming a complex, probably tip-located. Our results have global implications for T4F and make the Com pilus a model for elucidating fundamental processes underpinning filament assembly.

IMPORTANCE

Type 4 filaments (T4F) are nanomachines ubiquitous in prokaryotes, centered on filamentous polymers of type 4 pilins. T4F are exceptionally versatile and widespread virulence factors in bacterial pathogens. The mechanisms of filament assembly and the many functions they facilitate remain poorly understood because of the complexity of T4F machineries. This hinders the development of anti-T4F drugs. The significance of our research lies in characterizing the simplest known T4F—the Com pilus that mediates DNA uptake in competent monoderm bacteria—and showing that four protein components universally conserved in T4F are sufficient for filament assembly. The Com pilus becomes a model for elucidating the mechanisms of T4F assembly.
Mucorales
fungi suppress nitric oxide production by macrophages
Authors: Soare Alexandra Y. , Bruno Vincent M.
Published: December 2023

Mucormycosis is classified by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases as an emerging disease and is caused by
Mucorales
fungi. Despite the high morbidity and mortality rates associated with the disease, little is known about the host-pathogen interactions that dictate disease progression. The recent surge of mucormycosis cases among COVID-19 patients has thrust the disease and the lack of available treatments into the spotlight. Despite severe fungal angioinvasion and tissue necrosis during infection, clinical observations suggest a lack of pro-inflammatory responses. Understanding immune evasion mechanisms in mucormycosis can help guide potential therapeutic options. In this study, we demonstrate that
Mucorales
fungi can suppress the accumulation of nitric oxide (NO) in lipopolysaccharide- and interferon gamma-stimulated macrophages despite robust expression of the
Nos2
mRNA and inducible nitric oxide synthase protein. This suppressive activity requires fungal viability and direct contact with macrophages and is not due to restricted access to L-arginine substrate. While
Mucorales
fungi appear to be able to remove NO from its environment, it does not account for the full suppression that we observe and suggests that
Mucorales
employs at least two mechanisms. Future experiments will elucidate the mechanisms by which
Mucorales
fungi deplete NO accumulation by macrophages and the implications of this depletion in mucormycosis pathogenesis.

IMPORTANCE

In October 2022,
Mucorales
fungi were listed in the “High Priority Group” on the first-ever list of fungal priority pathogens by the World Health Organization. As the causative agent of mucormycosis,
Mucorales
have become of great clinical and public health importance with growing mucormycosis numbers, notably with the exponential rise of COVID-19-associated mucormycosis cases. Despite the dire need, there are limited therapeutic options to treat mucormycosis. Our research fills in critical gaps of knowledge about how
Mucorales
fungi evade the host immune system. Specifically, we offer evidence that
Mucorales
block nitric oxide production, which is a key mediator and signaling molecule of the mammalian innate immune response to microbial pathogens. Our work offers new insight into immune evasion mechanisms by
Mucorales
fungi.
Interrelation between gut microbiota, SCFA, and fatty acid composition in pigs
Authors: Sebastià Cristina , Folch Josep M. , Ballester Maria , Estellé Jordi , Passols Magí , Muñoz María , García-Casco Juan M. , Fernández Ana I. , Castelló Anna , Sánchez Armand , Crespo-Piazuelo Daniel
Published: December 2023

The gut microbiota is a key player in the host metabolism. Some bacteria are able to ferment non-digestible compounds and produce short-chain fatty acids that the host can later transform and accumulate in tissue. In this study, we aimed to better understand the relationships between the microorganisms and the short-chain fatty acid composition of the rectal content, including the possible linkage with the fatty acid composition in backfat and muscle of the pig. We studied a Duroc × Iberian crossbred population, and we found significant correlations between different bacterial and archaeal genera and the fatty acid profile. The abundance of n-butyric acid in the rectal content was positively associated with
Prevotella
spp. and negatively associated with
Akkermansia
spp., while conversely, the abundance of acetic acid was negatively and positively associated with the levels of
Prevotella
spp. and
Akkermansia
spp., respectively. The most abundant genus,
Rikenellaceae
RC9 gut group, had a positive correlation with palmitic acid in muscle and negative correlations with stearic acid in backfat and oleic acid in muscle. These results suggest the possible role of
Prevotella
spp. and
Akkermansia
spp. as biomarkers for acetic and n-butyric acids, and the relationship of
Rikenellaceae
RC9 gut group with the lipid metabolism, building up the potential, although indirect, role of the microbiota in the modification of the backfat and muscle fatty acid composition of the host.

IMPORTANCE

The vital role of the gut microbiota on its host metabolism makes it essential to know how its modulation is mirrored on the fatty acid composition of the host. Our findings suggest
Prevotella
spp. and
Akkermansia
spp. as potential biomarkers for the levels of beneficial short-chain fatty acids and the possible influence of
Rikenellaceae
RC9 gut group in the backfat and muscle fatty acid composition of the pig.
Suicidality Treatment Occurring in Paediatrics (STOP) Medication Suicidality Side Effects Scale in young people in two cohorts across Europe
Authors: Santosh Paramala , Sala Regina , Lievesley Kate , Singh Jatinder , Arango Celso , Buitelaar Jan K , Castro-Fornieles Josefina , Coghill David , Dittmann Ralf W , Flamarique Itziar , Hoekstra Pieter J , Llorente Cloe , Purper-Ouakil Diane , Schulze Ulrike , Zuddas Alessandro , Parnell Nathan , Mohan Mohapradeep , Fiori Federico
Published: December 2023

Objectives

As part of the ‘Suicidality: Treatment Occurring in Paediatrics (STOP)’ study, we developed and performed psychometric validation of an electronic-clinical-outcome-assessment (eCOA), which included a patient-reported-outcome (ePRO), an observer-rated-outcome (eObsRO) for parents/carers and a clinician-reported-outcome (eClinRO) that allows identification and monitoring of medication-related suicidality (MRS) in adolescents.

Design

STOP: Prospective study: A two phase validation study to assess the impact of medication on suicidal ideations.

Setting

Six participating countries: Netherlands, UK, Germany, France, Spain and Italy that were part of the Community’s Seventh Framework Programme (FP7/2007-2013) under grant agreement no. 261411.

Participants

Cohort 1 consisted of 41 adolescent-completions, 50 parent-completions and 56 clinician-completions. Cohort 2 consisted of 244 adolescent-completions, 198 parent-completions and 240 clinician-completions from across the six countries. The scale was administered only to participants who have screened positive for the STOP-Suicidality Assessment Scale (STOP-SAS).

Results

A total of 24 items for the development of the STOP-Medication Suicidality Side Effects Scale (STOP-MS3) were identified and three versions (for patients, parents and clinicians) of the STOP-MS3were developed and validated in two separate study cohorts comprising of adolescents, their parents and clinicians. Cronbach’s α coefficients were above 0.85 for all domains. The inter-rater reliability of the STOP-MS3was good and significant for the adolescent (ePRO), clinician (eClinRO) (r=0.613), parent (eObsRO) versions of the scale (r=0.394) and parent and clinician (r=0.347). Exploratory factor analysis identified a 3-factor model across 24 items for the adolescent and parent version of the scale: (1) Emotional Dysregulation, (2) Somatic Dysregulation and (3) Behavioural Dysregulation. For the clinician version, a 4-factor model defined the scale structure: (1) Somatic Dysregulation, (2) Emotional Dysregulation, (3) Behavioural Dysregulation and (4) Mood Dysregulation.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that the STOP-MS3scale, a web-based eCOA, allows identification and monitoring of MRS in the adolescent population and shows good reliability and validity.
DETERMINISTIC AND STOCHASTIC ANALYSIS OF A SIZE-DEPENDENT PHYTOPLANKTON–ZOOPLANKTON MODEL WITH ADDITIVE ALLEE EFFECT
Authors: LIAO TIANCAI , RUAN XINYANG
Published: December 2023

In this paper, a deterministic size-dependent phytoplankton–zooplankton (PZ) model with additive Allee effect as well as its stochastic differential equation version is formulated to explore the growth dynamic of phytoplankton. A stability and Hopf bifurcation analysis is performed towards deterministic PZ model, and stochastic dynamic analysis is carried out on the stochastic PZ model, including the stochastic extinction, persistence in mean and the unique ergodic stationary distribution, which in turn provides a theoretical basis for numerical simulation analysis. Numerical simulations reveal that the synergistic effect of plankton body size and Allee effect can have a complex impact on the growth of phytoplankton in the deterministic and stochastic environments. One of the most interesting findings suggests that the reduced phytoplankton cell size can trigger bistable phenomenon, while the increased phytoplankton cell size or the weakened Allee effect has the ability to destroy such bistable phenomenon.
Designing Public Identity: Finding Voice in Coalitional Technical Writing with Black-Led Organizations
Authors: Grant Carrie , Walker Dorian
Published: December 2023

This experience report offers an applied example of coalitional communication design, written collaboratively by a white faculty member for a student grant writing program and a Black executive director of a community organization. Highlighting the needs, thought processes, and practical considerations of doing antiracist technical communication work collaboratively from varied identity positions, we detail an ongoing effort to redesign a Black community organization's public voice to honor Black humanity and communal healing. This example spotlights the possibilities of coalitional technical writing that deeply engages with and supports community needs, one way to meet the challenge of TPC's social justice imperative.
Trichomonas vaginalis and Associated Factors among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care at Bule Hora University Teaching Hospital, Oromia Region, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Husen Oliyad , Aliyo Alqeer , Boru Kalicha , Gemechu Tibeso , Dedecha Wako , Ashenafi Girma
Published: December 2023

Trichomoniasis is caused by a flagellated protozoan parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. It is one of the most common, curable nonsexually transmitted infections globally. In Ethiopia, complications associated with genital infection in pregnant women are a common problem. Despite the burden of the disease, epidemiological data related to this disease is currently rare in Africa, particularly in Ethiopia. Objective. This research is aimed at assessing the prevalence of Trichomonas vaginalis and associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care at Bule Hora University Teaching Hospital. Methods. An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 196 pregnant women attending ANC at Bule Hora University Teaching Hospital. Structured questionnaires were used to collect sociodemographic and associated factor data. The consecutive sampling technique was used to include study participants. The two vaginal swabs were collected by brushing the vagina with a sterile cotton swab and tested by using direct wet mount and the Giemsa staining. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 26 for logistic regression analysis. A

p

value < 0.05 with 95% CI was used to declare it statistically significant. Result. An overall prevalence of T. vaginalis among pregnant women was 7.7% (95% with confidence interval (CI), 0.043-0.123). The highest prevalence was observed among the 35–39-year-old age group with 18.2% and among widowed women with 25%. This study revealed that the number of sexual partners (AOR: 3.215, 95% CI: 1.062-9.731) was a significant associated factor of T. vaginalis.Conclusion. The prevalence of T. vaginalis was considerably high among pregnant women in this study. This finding emphasizes the need for routine screening and treatment of pregnant women in the first antenatal care and enhances the need for regular health education for pregnant women at antenatal clinics to make them aware of their health, and avoidance of the risk of trichomoniasis is advised.
“Surthriving” Hand Rehabilitation: Proposing Interventions to Support Novice Occupational Therapists Working in Underserved Contexts
Authors: van Stormbroek Kirsty , van der Merwe Tania , O’Brien Lisa , Myezwa Hellen
Published: December 2023

Hand rehabilitation delivered to underserved South African communities is often the responsibility of novice or generalist occupational therapists. Novice therapists typically work with restricted supervision, support, and resources. Little is known about how these therapists should be supported in order to strengthen the services that they deliver. This study is aimed at understanding how novice occupational therapists in their first year of practice describe their experience of delivering hand rehabilitation in order to identify their support and development needs and propose interventions to address these needs. A qualitative instrumental case study design was used. Data were collected from novice occupational therapists (

n
=
9

) who participated in an online community of practice. Data collection techniques included photoelicitation, facilitated reflection activities, and case discussion. Reflexive thematic analysis was employed. Trustworthiness strategies included reflexive writing, prolonged engagement, data source triangulation, member checking, and peer audit. Analysis generated three themes: (1) “submerged: I had to drown a little” captured participants’ experience of being saturated by contextual features including poverty and poor basic management of hand injuries. (2) “Starting somewhere” captured participants’ journey of treating patients with hand injuries. They transitioned from an initial sense of having “no idea” to developing “some idea”; their clinical reasoning was challenged when working with no diagnosis, unfamiliar presentations, or when contextual features rendered traditional approaches to therapy inappropriate. Finally, (3) “dynamics of ‘surthrival’” captured elements that contributed to participants either thriving or merely surviving their hand rehabilitation experience. The proposed strategies identified in this study to address the support and development needs of novice therapists include interventions focused on systems and health services; learning opportunities to support competency and physical resources; and emotional support. Beyond application to the South African context, these strategies may be considered for supporting generalist or novice therapists delivering hand rehabilitation in other low- to middle-income countries.
Comparative Analysis of the European Regulatory Framework for C&D Waste Management
Authors: Colmenero Fonseca Fabiola , Cárcel-Carrasco Javier , Preciado Adolfo , Martínez-Corral Aurora , Salas Montoya Andrés
Published: December 2023

This article presents a comprehensive analysis of construction and demolition waste (C&D waste) management in European Union (EU) Member States. The study utilizes official data and reports to assess the current C&D waste management status, revealing substantial disparities in recycling rates across countries, ranging from 100% to 24%. These variations emphasize the importance of knowledge sharing and collaborative efforts to improve C&D waste practices. The paper explores the complex factors influencing C&D waste management performance, offering a nuanced discussion of these dynamics. It provides a comprehensive set of practical strategies to address existing challenges, with a focus on reducing C&D waste sent to landfills or incineration. These recommendations align with the EU’s commitment to sustainable resource management and the transition to a circular economy. The research’s informed measures, driven by environmental responsibility and economic prudence, can significantly diminish C&D waste’s environmental impact. Policymakers, environmentalists, and industry stakeholders can utilize these findings to develop and implement improved C&D waste management practices, promoting sustainability and resource efficiency across the EU. This research contributes valuable insights to the field of C&D waste management, offering a road map for improvement and highlighting the need for collaboration among EU Member States to create a more sustainable and resilient future.
temas prominentes en la discusión Constitucional
Authors: Heresi José Ignacio
Published: December 2023

A unas pocas semanas del plebiscito en que se decidirá si se acepta o rechaza la nueva propuesta de constitución, la opción “En contra” parece correr con ventaja. La encuesta CEP de septiembre y octubre de 2023 arrojó una ventaja para esta opción: si bien un 53% declara que aún no ha decidido, un 30% se manifestó en contra y un 8% a favor. La encuesta Feedback, por su parte, realizada entre el 14 y el 16 de noviembre, encuentra que el 53,2% de los encuestados votará en contra y el 33,8% a favor. Continuar leyendo-
Nueva Propuesta Constitucional
Authors: Geldes Cristian
Published: December 2023

El próximo 17 de diciembre en Chile se vota respecto de aprobación o rechazo de la propuesta de nueva Constitución realizada por Consejo Constitucional. Si en la elección gana la opción “en contra”, el país seguirá regido por la actual Constitución promulgada el año 2005. En este marco, surge el interés por saber si hay un avance en materia de generar un marco legal para abordar la sostenibilidad. Continuar leyendo...
Derechos de Propiedad en la Nueva Propuesta de Constitución
Authors: Ponce Carlos J.
Published: December 2023

En un artículo previo, abordé los derechos de propiedad propuestos en la nueva Constitución de Chile. En este artículo, reviso nuevamente las disposiciones sugeridas por la nueva propuesta en materia de derechos de propiedad. Aunque no siempre será factible, intentaré realizar una comparación entre ambas propuestas. A modo de resumen, una primera lectura sugiere que el nuevo texto refuerza los derechos de propiedad que la versión anterior debilitaba. Continuar leyendo...
Apuntes laborales de la Propuesta Constitucional 2023
Authors: Araneda Mauricio
Published: December 2023

Expectación existía entre los actores laborales y especialistas en torno a cómo quedarían plasmados los derechos de las y los trabajadores al texto que redactó el Consejo Constitucional, pues nuestro Observatorio de Huelgas Laborales (OHL) había presentado propuestas y análisis a este organismo. Continuar leyendo...
Fimepinostat Impairs NF­κB and PI3K/AKT Signaling and Enhances Gemcitabine Efficacy in H3.3K27M-Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma
Authors: Wang Dan , Yan Kun , Yu Hongxing , Li Haocheng , Zhou Wei , Hong Yaqiang , Guo Shuning , Wang Yi , Xu Cheng , Pan Changcun , Tang Yujie , Liu Nian , Wu Wei , Zhang Liwei , Xi Qiaoran
Published: December 2023

Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is the most aggressive pediatric brain tumor, and the oncohistone H3.3K27M mutation is associated with significantly worse clinical outcomes. Despite extensive research efforts, effective approaches for treating DIPG are lacking. Through drug screening, we identified the combination of gemcitabine and fimepinostat as a potent therapeutic intervention for H3.3K27M DIPG. H3.3K27M facilitated gemcitabine-induced apoptosis in DIPG, and gemcitabine stabilized and activated p53, including increasing chromatin accessibility for p53 at apoptosis-related loci. Gemcitabine simultaneously induced a prosurvival program in DIPG through activation of RELB-mediated NF­κB signaling. Specifically, gemcitabine induced the transcription of long terminal repeat elements, activated cGAS-STING signaling, and stimulated noncanonical NF­κB signaling. A drug screen in gemcitabine-treated DIPG cells revealed that fimepinostat, a dual inhibitor of HDAC and PI3K, effectively suppressed the gemcitabine-induced NF­κB signaling in addition to blocking PI3K/AKT activation. Combination therapy comprising gemcitabine and fimepinostat elicited synergistic antitumor effects in vitro and in orthotopic H3.3K27M DIPG xenograft models. Collectively, p53 activation using gemcitabine and suppression of RELB-mediated NF­κB activation and PI3K/AKT signaling using fimepinostat is a potential therapeutic strategy for treating H3.3K27M DIPG.

Significance:

Gemcitabine activates p53 and induces apoptosis to elicit antitumor effects in H3.3K27M DIPG, which can be enhanced by blocking NF­κB and PI3K/AKT signaling with fimepinostat, providing a synergistic combination therapy for DIPG.
Supplementary Table 1 from Polygenic Risk Score Modifies Prostate Cancer Risk of Pathogenic Variants in Men of African Ancestry
Authors: Hughley Raymond W. , Matejcic Marco , Song Ziwei , Sheng Xin , Wan Peggy , Xia Lucy , Hart Steven N. , Hu Chunling , Yadav Siddhartha , Lubmawa Alexander , Kiddu Vicky , Asiimwe Frank , Amanya Colline , Mutema George , Job Kuteesa , Ssebakumba Mbaaga K. , Ingles Sue A. , Hamilton Ann S. , Couch Fergus J. , Watya Stephen , Conti David V. , Darst Burcu F. , Haiman Christopher A.
Published: December 2023

Rare germline pathogenic, likely pathogenic, or deleterious (P/LP/D) variants (n=51) in BRCA2, ATM, NBN, and PALB2 identified among men of African ancestry.
Cardiovascular Involvement in Patients with Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease: A Review
Authors: Pietrzak-Nowacka Maria , Safranow Krzysztof , Płońska-Gościniak Edyta , Nowacki Adam , Późniak Piotr , Gutowski Piotr , Ciechanowski Kazimierz
Published: December 2023

Background: Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is the most common hereditary kidney disease with a prevalence of 1:400 to 1:1,000 in Caucasians. It is caused by mutations in the PKD1 gene located on chromosome 16p13.3 (in about 85% cases) as well as in the PKD2 gene on chromosome 4q13-23. In the Polish population, the disease is associated with PKD1 mutations in 84% of the ADPKD-affected families. PKD1 and PKD2 genes encode the proteins polycystin-1 (PC1) and polycystin-2 (PC2), respectively. The presence of kidney cysts is a characteristic feature in the ADPKD patients. But in the ADPKD patients, cardiovascular abnormalities, such as hypertension (HT) with higher systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) values, higher left ventricular mass (LVM), intracranial (ICAN) and extracranial aneurysms, and cardiac valve defects, are significantly more common than in the general population. Summary: According to the literature data, both higher LVM and vascular dysfunction already occur in children and young adults with normal renal function and without HT. Moreover, biventricular diastolic dysfunction, endothelial dysfunction, increased carotid intima-media thickness, and impaired coronary flow velocity reserve are present even in young patients with ADPKD who have normal HT and well-preserved renal function. In patients with ADPKD, hypertension has some specific features; in the youngest age group of children, the prevalence of hypertension is greater if their parents suffer from hypertension; in normotensive young ADPKD-diagnosed individuals, ambulant SBP and DBP values were significantly higher than in age- and gender-matched controls; hypertension appears at least 10 years earlier than spontaneous HT in general population. In adults, HT is often diagnosed before any substantial reduction in the GFR, and a lower nocturnal dip in BP in comparison to hypertensives in the general population. PKD1 and PKD2 gene products (PC1 and PC2 proteins) have been shown to assemble at the plasma membrane and to regulate calcium (Ca2+) entry. A defect in Ca2+ binding mediated by mutations in polycystin proteins is a hypothetical factor contributing to left ventricular mass increase. Altered intracellular Ca2+ handling contributes importantly to impaired contractility associated with heart failure. Impairment of intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis and mitochondrial function has been implicated in the development of LVH. Key Messages: It can be assumed that the cause of LVH in ADPKD patients is the natural course of this disease with developing HT and deteriorating kidney function, which may be influenced by the presence of PKD1- and PKD2-mutated gene products: PC1 and PC2 proteins.
Plasma Volume Oscillations during Fluid Therapy in Humans
Authors: Hahn Robert G.
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Oscillations are frequently observed on plasma dilution curves during intravenous fluid therapy. This study aimed to examine how common these oscillations are and what they represent. Methods: Fourier transforms were used to analyze the residuals obtained during fitting of a volume kinetic model to 269 plasma dilution curves. Oscillating patterns were identified in two-thirds of the fluid infusion experiments. Results: The wave frequency usually had a dominating frequency of 1 h or multiples thereof. The wave amplitudes varied between 1% and 4% of the plasma volume. The “peak-to-peak” amplitudes were then twice as large, which corresponded to blood volume changes of 60–240 mL. A population kinetic analysis of the distribution of infused fluid between body fluid compartments was then applied to search for clues that could explain the oscillations. This analysis showed that amplitudes >1.5% were associated with doubled turnover of fluid in a fast-exchange interstitial fluid compartment and, together with data on plasma albumin, suggested that oscillations might represent bursts of efferent lymph. Conclusions: Oscillations with very low frequency were often observed on plasma dilution-time curves obtained during fluid therapy. They were associated with fast turnover of interstitial fluid and can possibly have resulted from accelerated lymphatic flow.
COVID-19 Lockdown and Impact on 2-Year Weight Loss in a Bariatric Center
Authors: Moreno Telma , Ribeiro Sara , Borges-Canha Marta , Silva Maria Manuel , Mendonça Fernando , Urbano Ferreira Helena , Gonçalves Juliana , Guerreiro Vanessa , Meira Inês , Menino João , Gil-Santos Sara , Calheiros Raquel , Vale Catarina , Varela Ana , Souto Selma B. , Pedro Jorge , Rodrigues Pedro , Lima Costa Eduardo , Freitas Paula , Carvalho Davide ,   The CRIO Group
Published: December 2023

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a worldwide lockdown, which affected physical exercise habits, as well as having a detrimental effect on psychological health and follow-up visits of patients submitted to bariatric surgery. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 lockdown on the 2-year weight loss of patients submitted to bariatric surgery in our center. Methods: This was an observational study comparing the weight loss of patients who underwent bariatric surgery from January to March 2020 with a control group submitted to surgery between January and March 2017. Percentage of total weight loss (% TWL) and excess weight loss (% EWL) were assessed 6, 12, and 24 months after surgery. Results: A total number of 203 patients were included in this study, 102 had bariatric surgery during the selected period in 2020 and 101 underwent surgery during the same period in 2017. There was no statistically significant difference in weight loss between the 2017 and 2020 groups which was reported as % TWL (mean 27.08 ± 7.530 vs. 28.03 ± 7.074, 33.87 ± 8.507 vs. 34.07 ± 8.979 and 34.13 ± 9.340 vs. 33.98 ± 9.993; p = 0.371) and % EWL (mean 66.83 ± 23.004 vs. 69.71 ± 17.021, 83.37 ± 24.059 vs. 84.51 ± 21.640 and 83.47 ± 24.130 vs. 84.27 ± 23.651; p = 0.506) at 6, 12, and 24 months post-surgery. Conclusion: Despite social limitations imposed by the COVID-19 lockdown, we found no significant difference between weight loss at 2 years postoperatively in the 2020 group when compared with a control group who underwent bariatric surgery in 2017. These results show that the outcomes of bariatric surgery during the COVID-19 lockdown were comparable with those recorded before the pandemic, supporting the efficacy of bariatric procedures’ metabolic effects during the first 2 years after surgery, regardless of lifestyle habits.
Contribuição ao conhecimento dos Cuterebrídeos do Brasil
Authors: Guimarães Lindolfo R. , Carrera Messias
Published: December 2023

As espécies de Cuterebrídeos dos gêneros Cuterebra e afins são exclusivamente americanas. Na presente contribuição descrevemos mais três espécies que julgamos novas, provenientes do vale Amazônico.
Ensaio monográfico sobre os Quirópteros do Brasil
Authors: Vieira Carlos O. da Cunha
Published: December 2023

No presente trabalho, procuramos tanto quanto possível, dar um cunho essencialmente prático ao conhecimento dos morcegos brasileiros. Evitamos assim cair em descrições por demais minuciosas de caracteres anatômicos internos que, alem de exigirem conhecimentos es[1]peciais para sua observação, requerem ainda muito tempo e material apropriado.
Escala de Avaliação da Necessidade de Cuidado em Saúde Mental: evidências adicionais
Authors: Mendonça Joana Moscoso Teixeira de , Rebustini Flavio , Sousa Ana Alice Freire de , Eshriqui Ilana , Bonfim Daiana , Almeida Leticia Yamawaka de
Published: December 2023

OBJETIVO: Investigar evidências de validade da estrutura interna da Escala de Avaliação da Necessidade de Cuidado em Saúde Mental (CuidaSM). MÉTODOS: Trata-se de um estudo de natureza psicométrica, que busca evidências adicionais de estrutura interna. A coleta de dados foi realizada em 11 unidades básicas de saúde que executam a metodologia da Planificação da Atenção à Saúde, distribuídas nas cinco regiões brasileiras. A versão preliminar da CuidaSM contendo um bloco autorreferido pelo usuário e outro avaliado por profissionais da atenção primária à saúde foi aplicada em usuários com 18 anos ou mais que compareceram às unidades básicas de saúde para consulta com profissional de nível superior. As técnicas de análise fatorial confirmatória e network analysis foram utilizadas para investigação das evidências de validade. Para os dados primários da análise fatorial confirmatória utilizou-se as cargas fatoriais e o poder preditivo do item (R2). Foram adotados seis índices de ajustamento do modelo e a confiabilidade foi aferida por três indicadores, por meio de bayesian estimation. RESULTADOS: Participaram do estudo 879 usuários. Pela análise fatorial confirmatória, as cargas fatoriais variaram de 0,43 a 0,99 e R2 de 0,19 a 0,98. Tanto os indicadores primários como os índices de adequação do modelo estabeleceram-se em níveis satisfatórios e consistentes. A network analysis apontou que os itens se associaram de forma adequada com seus pares respeitando as dimensões estabelecidas, o que indica, novamente, a sustentabilidade e estabilidade do modelo proposto. CONCLUSÕES: Os achados do estudo confirmam um modelo consistente e confiável do instrumento, por meio da combinação de técnicas. Considerando a relevância do uso de instrumentos sólidos na prática clínica, a CuidaSM se apresenta como uma ferramenta promissora para a gestão de base populacional e organização do cuidado em rede, alinhada às propostas da Planificação da Atenção à Saúde.
Current Status and Principles for the Treatment and Prevention of Diabetic Foot Ulcers in the Cardiovascular Patient Population: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association
Authors: Gallagher Katherine A. , Mills Joseph L. , Armstrong David G. , Conte Michael S. , Kirsner Robert S. , Minc Samantha D. , Plutzky Jorge , Southerland Kevin W. , Tomic-Canic Marjana ,   on behalf of the American Heart Association Council on Peripheral Vascular Disease; Council on Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing; Council on Clinical Cardiology; and Council on Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Health
Published: December 2023

Despite the known higher risk of cardiovascular disease in individuals with type 2 diabetes, the pathophysiology and optimal management of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), a leading complication associated with diabetes, is complex and continues to evolve. Complications of type 2 diabetes, such as DFUs, are a major cause of morbidity and mortality and the leading cause of major lower extremity amputation in the United States. There has recently been a strong focus on the prevention and early treatment of DFUs, leading to the development of multidisciplinary diabetic wound and amputation prevention clinics across the country. Mounting evidence has shown that, despite these efforts, amputations associated with DFUs continue to increase. Furthermore, due to increasing patient complexity of management secondary to comorbid conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, the management of peripheral artery disease associated with DFUs has become increasingly difficult, and care delivery is often episodic and fragmented. Although structured, process-specific approaches exist at individual institutions for the management of DFUs in the cardiovascular patient population, there is insufficient awareness of these principles in the general medicine communities. Furthermore, there is growing interest in better understanding the mechanistic underpinnings of DFUs to better define personalized medicine to improve outcomes. The goals of this scientific statement are to provide salient background information on the complex pathogenesis and current management of DFUs in cardiovascular patients, to guide therapeutic and preventive strategies and future research directions, and to inform public policy makers on health disparities and other barriers to improving and advancing care in this expanding patient population.
Diagnostic Delay and Disease Burden in Primary Aldosteronism: An International Patient Survey
Authors: Ananda Roshan A. , Gwini Stella May , Long Katrina M. , Lai Jordan H. , Chen Gang , Russell Grant M. , Stowasser Michael , Fuller Peter J. , Yang Jun
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND:

Primary aldosteronism (PA) is a common but underdiagnosed cause of hypertension. Many patients experience preventable end-organ injury due to delayed or missed diagnosis but data on the experience of patients are limited.

METHODS:

We evaluated the lived experience of PA and determines factors associated with diagnostic delay through an international anonymous online cross-sectional survey, codesigned by researchers and PA consumers. We distributed the survey through academic medical centers, Amazon Mechanical Turk, Twitter, PA patient advocacy groups, and hypertension support groups on Facebook between March 21 and June 5, 2022.

RESULTS:

Of 684 eligible respondents, 66.5% were women. Diagnostic delay (defined as ≥5 years between the diagnosis of hypertension and PA) was reported in 35.6%. Delay was more likely in women than in men (odds ratio, 1.55 [95% CI, 1.10–2.20]) and respondents with ≥3 comorbidities versus none (odds ratio, 1.77 [95% CI, 1.05–3.02]), ≥10 symptoms versus none (odds ratio, 2.73 [95% CI, 1.74–4.44]), and on ≥4 antihypertensive medications versus none (odds ratio, 18.23 [95% CI, 6.24–77.72]). Three-quarters of patients (74.4%) experienced reduced symptom burden following targeted PA treatment. Quality of life improved in 62.3% of patients, and greater improvement was associated with being a woman (odds ratio, 1.42, [95% CI, 1.02–1.97]), receiving adrenalectomy (odds ratio, 2.36 [95% CI, 1.67–3.35]), and taking fewer antihypertensive medications following diagnosis (odds ratio, 5.28 [95% CI, 3.55–7.90]).

CONCLUSIONS:

One-third of patients with PA experienced prolonged diagnostic delays. Targeted treatment led to reduced symptom burden and improved quality of life. Gender differences in diagnostic delay and symptom burden are prominent. These findings suggest that routine screening for PA at the onset of hypertension may reduce diagnostic delay and facilitate timely diagnosis.
“If the Kingdom be Ruled According to the Tao”: Politics as “Eastern Wisdom” in Aleister Crowley’s Reception of the Daodejing
Authors: Nilsson Johan
Published: December 2023

The fascination with the “Eastern Wisdom” exhibited among esoteric movements in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century is often understood as an interest in spirituality. Existing research has focused on how these movements took an interest in beliefs in doctrines like karma and reincarnation, as well as in practices of meditation and divination. Although this characterization is broadly correct, it is not the whole picture. This article explores a case where “Eastern Wisdom” was instead conceived in a way that explicitly included politics: Aleister Crowley’s interpretation of the instructions for government given in the Daodejing. During the early twentieth century the Daodejing was the focus of broad interest by sinologists, artists, and esoteric writers alike, among them Crowley. Although intensely engaged in divination and esoteric ritual practices, Crowley was also a utopian political thinker who wanted to see radical societal reform in line with his religious and political ideals. The article explores Crowley’s interpretation of the political aspects of the Daodejing and how he strove to interpret them in light of his own religious beliefs. It suggests that, far from being exclusively private and individualistic, the esoteric understanding of “Eastern Wisdom” could include elements like political theory and utopian thinking.