bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incremental net benefit of cholecystectomy compared with alternative treatments in people with gallstones or cholecystitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of cost–utility studies
Authors: Bagepally Bhavani Shankara , Sajith Kumar S , Natarajan Meenakumari , Sasidharan Akhil
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Cholecystectomy is a standard treatment in the management of symptomatic gallstone disease. Current literature has contradicting views on the cost-effectiveness of different cholecystectomy treatments. We have conducted a systematic reappraisal of literature concerning the cost-effectiveness of cholecystectomy in management of gallstone disease.

Methods

We systematically searched for economic evaluation studies from PubMed, Embase and Scopus for eligible studies from inception up to July 2020. We pooled the incremental net benefit (INB) with a 95% CI using a random-effects model. We assessed the heterogeneity using the Cochrane-Q test, I2statistic. We have used the modified economic evaluation bias (ECOBIAS) checklist for quality assessment of the selected studies. We assessed the possibility of publication bias using a funnel plot and Egger’s test.

Results

We have selected 28 studies for systematic review from a search that retrieved 8710 studies. Among them, seven studies were eligible for meta-analysis, all from high-income countries (HIC). Studies mainly reported comparisons between surgical treatments, but non-surgical gallstone disease management studies were limited. The early laparoscopic cholecystectomy (ELC) was significantly more cost-effective compared with the delayed laparoscopic cholecystectomy (DLC) with an INB of US$1221 (US$187 to US$2255) but with high heterogeneity (I2=73.32%). The subgroup and sensitivity analysis also supported that ELC is the most cost-effective option for managing gallstone disease or cholecystitis.

Conclusion

ELC is more cost-effective than DLC in the treatment of gallstone disease or cholecystitis in HICs. There was insufficient literature on comparison with other treatment options, such as conservative management and limited evidence from other economies.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020194052.
JAK and mTOR inhibitors prevent cytokine release while retaining T cell bispecific antibody in vivo efficacy
Authors: Leclercq Gabrielle , Haegel Hélène , Toso Alberto , Zimmermann Tina , Green Luke , Steinhoff Nathalie , Sam Johannes , Pulko Vesna , Schneider Anneliese , Giusti Anna Maria , Challier John , Freimoser-Grundschober Anne , Larivière Laurent , Odermatt Alex , Stern Martin , Umana Pablo , Bacac Marina , Klein Christian
Published: January 2022

Background

T cell engaging therapies, like chimeric antigen receptor T cells and T cell bispecific antibodies (TCBs), efficiently redirect T cells towards tumor cells, facilitating the formation of a cytotoxic synapse and resulting in subsequent tumor cell killing, a process that is accompanied by the release of cytokines. Despite their promising efficacy in the clinic, treatment with TCBs is associated with a risk of cytokine release syndrome (CRS). The aim of this study was to identify small molecules able to mitigate cytokine release while retaining T cell-mediated tumor killing.

Methods

By screening a library of 52 Food and Drug Administration approved kinase inhibitors for their impact on T cell proliferation and cytokine release after CD3 stimulation, we identified mTOR, JAK and Src kinases inhibitors as potential candidates to modulate TCB-mediated cytokine release at pharmacologically active doses. Using an in vitro model of target cell killing by human peripheral blood mononuclear cells, we assessed the effects of mTOR, JAK and Src kinase inhibitors combined with 2+1 T cell bispecific antibodies (TCBs) including CEA-TCB and CD19-TCB on T cell activation, proliferation and target cell killing measured by flow cytometry and cytokine release measured by Luminex. The combination of mTOR, JAK and Src kinase inhibitors together with CD19-TCB was evaluated in vivo in non-tumor bearing stem cell humanized NSG mice in terms of B cell depletion and in a lymphoma patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model in humanized NSG mice in terms of antitumor efficacy.

Results

The effect of Src inhibitors differed from those of mTOR and JAK inhibitors with the suppression of CD19-TCB-induced tumor cell lysis in vitro, whereas mTOR and JAK inhibitors primarily affected TCB-mediated cytokine release. Importantly, we confirmed in vivo that Src, JAK and mTOR inhibitors strongly reduced CD19-TCB-induced cytokine release. In humanized NSG mice, continuous treatment with a Src inhibitor prevented CD19-TCB-mediated B cell depletion in contrast to mTOR and JAK inhibitors, which retained CD19-TCB efficacy. Ultimately, transient treatment with Src, mTOR and JAK inhibitors minimally interfered with antitumor efficacy in a lymphoma PDX model.

Conclusions

Taken together, these data support further evaluation of the use of Src, JAK and mTOR inhibitors as prophylactic treatment to prevent occurrence of CRS.
What amount of structural damage defines sacroiliitis: a CT study
Authors: Hermann Kay Geert A , Ziegeler Katharina , Kreutzinger Virginie , Poddubnyy Denis , Proft Fabian , Deppe Dominik , Greese Juliane , Sieper Joachim , Diekhoff Torsten
Published: January 2022

Objectives

To propose a data-driven definition for structural changes of sacroiliac (SI) joints in the context of axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) imaging on a large collective of CT datasets.

Methods

546 individuals (102 axSpA, 80 non-axSpA low back pain and 364 controls without back pain) with SI joint CTs were evaluated for erosions, sclerosis and ankylosis using a structured scoring system. Lesion frequencies and spatial distribution were compared between groups. Diagnostic performance (sensitivity (SE), specificity (SP), positive predictive values, negative predictive values and positive and negative likelihood ratios) was calculated for different combinations of imaging findings. Clinical diagnosis served as standard of reference.

Results

Ankylosis and/or erosions of the middle and dorsal joint portions yielded the best diagnostic performance with SE 67.6% and SP 96.3%. Inclusion of ventral erosions and sclerosis resulted in lower diagnostic performance with SE 71.2%/SP 92.5% and SE 70.6%/SP 90.0%, respectively.

Conclusions

Sclerosis and ventrally located erosions of SI joints have lower specificity on CT of the SI joint in the context of axSpA imaging. Ankylosis and/or erosions of the middle and dorsal joint portions show a strong diagnostic performance and are appropriate markers of a positive SI joint by CT.
Is the Ibero-Armorican Arc primary or secondary? An analysis of the contraction required to form it by rotation around a vertical axis
Authors: Casas Josep Maria , Guimerà Joan , Alvarez-Marron Joaquina , Días da Silva Ícaro
Published: January 2022

Various models have been proposed to explain the formation of the Ibero-Armorican Arc (IAA) as either primary or secondary (rotational). Models for secondary arc formation require significant rotation around a vertical axis at the end of the Variscan orogeny. Estimates for the amount of north–south (present coordinates) contraction (horizontal shortening) required for these rotations range from 54 at the core to 91% at the SE tip of the arc, near to the present day Mediterranean coast. These estimates are compared with coeval deformational structures developed in three areas of the orogen: (1) in the autochthonous hinterland in the southern branch of the arc; (2) in the Cantabrian Zone foreland fold–thrust belt in the core of the arc; and (3) in the SE continuation of the southern branch of the IAA in the present day Iberian Chain. From this analysis it follows that the contraction associated with late Variscan deformation is much less than that needed to explain the formation of the IAA from a formerly linear orogen via rotation around a vertical axis. We therefore propose that the geometry of the arc should be re-evaluated. We discuss the palaeomagnetic data purported to support the secondary origin, as well as the role of late Variscan regional strike-slip faults in modifying the geometry of the Iberian and Armorican massifs. Our analysis suggests that the IAA formed mainly from a primary non-rotational margin-controlled curvature, slightly modified by
c.
5–20% of superposed contraction during late Carboniferous and/or Alpine times.
Is One of the E’s in IEEE for Environmental?
Authors: Fenton James M.
Published: January 2022

Every year the Industrial Electrolysis and Electrochemical Engineering (IEEE) Division of ECS sponsors a Report of the Electrolytic Industries for the past year. Even as far back as 1980, either in a footnote or later as the first paragraph in the report, it states that, “environmental aspects in the electrolytic and related industries” also are summarized.
How to Evaluate the Coordination of Green Economy, Education Development, and Technological Innovation? Take China as Example
Authors: Wu Junqi , Zhang Kui
Published: January 2022

The coordination of green economy, education development, and technological innovation is of great significance for reversing the trend of ecological environmental deterioration and promoting high‐quality economic development. This study first designs the indicator system of green economy, education development, and technological innovation, then uses the entropy method to calculate the comprehensive level of green economy, education development, and technological innovation of 30 provinces and cities in China, and finally uses the coupling coordination model to measure the coordination level among them. The research shows that, first, the comprehensive level of green economy, education development, and technological innovation in 30 provinces and cities in China showed a rising trend from 2005 to 2016, but there were some regional differences in their levels. Second, the coordination level of green economy, education development, and technological innovation in different regions of China was in a rising trend from 2005 to 2016, but in 2005, they were extremely uncoordinated. Also, the coordination level of green economy, education development, and technological innovation in most regions of China grew very slowly from 2005 to 2010 but showed a rapid increase from 2011 to 2016. The coordination level of green economy, education development, and technological innovation in eastern China was visibly higher than that of the central region. The coordination level of the central region was higher than that of the northeast region, and the coordination level of the northeast region was higher than that of the western region. Finally, the limitations of this paper are summarized and proposed the direction of future research.
System Optimization of Talent Life Cycle Management Platform Based on Decision Tree Model
Authors: Han Jiaonan
Published: January 2022

Decision tree algorithm is a widely used classification and prediction method. Because it generates a tree‐like classifier, it has a simple structure and is extensively used by people. Regardless of the decision tree algorithm, the decision attributes are classified according to the condition attributes. The judgment process is from the root node to the leaf node. Each branch of the tree takes the form of selecting the best split attribute. However, this classification method of decision tree makes it rely too much on training data. If the data are more complicated, there are noisy data, incomplete data, etc. The decision tree will often have overfitting problems. This study mainly analyzes the random forest algorithm model and the CART algorithm and applies the CART algorithm to the model according to the random forest model. Aiming at the algorithm’s shortcomings in solving big data, this study will improve the algorithm through the MapReduce programming model to achieve parallelization of the process and construction of the function. Combining the construction goals and principles of the talent supply chain management system, this study constructs the overall framework and operational process of the enterprise talent supply chain management system based on the decision tree model from the overall level and the operational level. Aiming at the enterprise’s talent management problems, it focuses on designing integrated management, flexible management, talent information integrated management, and evaluation and optimization management models to ensure that the constructed system is operable and measurable and can achieve dynamic optimization. Based on the current situation of talent management in a company, this study analyzes the enterprise talent supply chain management model based on the decision tree model proposed in this study and constructs the overall framework and core model of a company’s talent supply chain management system. The current situation of the company puts forward the safeguard measures for the implementation of the management system to assure that the established management system can be effectively implemented.
Representation by Degenerate Genocchi Polynomials
Authors: Kim Taekyun , San Kim Dae , Kwon Jongkyum , Park Seong-Ho
Published: January 2022

The aim of this study is to represent any polynomial in terms of the degenerate Genocchi polynomials and more generally of the higher‐order degenerate Genocchi polynomials. We derive explicit formulas with the help of umbral calculus and illustrate our results with some examples.
A DSGE Decision Model for Investigating the LPR Transmission Effect
Authors: Yang Xing
Published: January 2022

In August 2019, People’s Bank of China launched the reform of Loan Prime Rate (LPR) quotation formation mechanism and then made continuous progress in the order of “new loans first, followed by exiting loans,” dredging the interest rate transmission channel of “policy interest rate, LPR, loan interest rate.” In 2020, Chinese financial institutions have mainly referred to LPR pricing for loans, and the marketization level of loan pricing has significantly improved. This paper analyzed the policy effects transmitted by LPR through constructing a Dynamic Stochastic General Equilibrium (DSGE) decision model, and it was found that the financial market structure, pricing ability of commercial banks, and the degree of LPR application all affected the policy rate transmission effect and had an impulse impact on macroeconomic growth. Based on the above analysis, this paper proposed policy suggestions on the path of interest rate market-oriented reform and coping measures of commercial banks in China.
Interleukin-32γ in the Control of Acute Experimental Chagas Disease
Authors: Braga Yarlla L. L. , Neto José R. C. , Costa Arthur W. F. , Silva Muriel V. T. , Silva Marcos V. , Celes Mara R. N. , Oliveira Milton A. P. , Joosten Leo A. B. , Ribeiro-Dias Fátima , Gomes Rodrigo S. , Machado Juliana R.
Published: January 2022

Chagas disease (CD) is an important parasitic disease caused by Trypanosoma cruzi. Interleukin-32 (IL-32) plays an important role in inflammation and in the development of Th1/Th17 acquired immune responses. We evaluated the influence of IL-32γ on the immune response profile, pathogenesis of myocarditis in acute experimental CD, and control of the disease. For this, C57BL/6 wild-type (WT) and IL-32γTg mice were infected subcutaneously with 1,000 forms of Colombian strain of T. cruzi. In the histopathological analyzes, T. cruzi nests, myocarditis, and collagen were quantified in cardiac tissue. Cytokine productions (IL-32, IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-10, and IL-17) were measured in cardiac homogenate by ELISA. The IL-32γTg mice showed a better control of parasitemia and T. cruzi nests in the heart than WT mice. Infected-WT and -IL-32γTg mice showed similar levels of IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-17, but IL-10 was significantly higher expressed in IL-32γTg than in WT mice. The cytokine profile found in IL-32γTg animals contributed to body weight maintenance, parasitemia control, and survival. Our results indicate that the presence of human IL-32γ in mice infected with the Colombian strain of T. cruzi is important for infection control during the acute phase of Chagas disease.
An Integrative Bioinformatic Analysis of Microbiome and Transcriptome for Predicting the Risk of Colon Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Yu Jieyang , Nong Cuizhen , Zhao Jingjie , Meng Lingzhang , Song Jian
Published: January 2022

The abundance of gut microbiota is significantly decreased in patients with colorectal tumors compared to healthy groups. However, few studies have been conducted to correlate the differences in gut microbiota in colon cancer patients with different prognosis. In this study, we analysed the gut microbiota among patients with colon cancer and determined the microbial characteristics of COAD and divided the overall survival of COAD data into the high- and low-risk groups. In addition, we established a microbiome-related gene map and determined the association between microbial features and immune cell infiltration in COAD. In comparison with the low-risk group, the high risk group of COAD samples exhibited a decreased proportion of activated CD4 T cells as well as an increased proportion of M2 macrophages. The current data suggested that different gut flora backgrounds lead to different gene expression profiles, which in turn affect immune cell typing and colorectal tumor prognosis.
Visual Information Management Based on Visual Communication of Deep Learning
Authors: Wang Wenting , Pan Younghwan
Published: January 2022

To speed up the buffering of visualization images and ensure the integrity of visualization images, this paper proposes the construction of a virtual packaging model of visualization images based on visual communication of deep learning (DL). Based on the visual communication, the specific calibration steps of the visual image are designed to complete the adjustment of the visual image by using the calibration process of the visual image. We introduce the minimum buffer coefficient of the visual image, calculate the size of the buffer liner of the visual image, correct the thickness of the visual image, and complete the design of the buffer package of the visual image. Finally, the process of constructing the virtual packaging model of the visualized image is constructed to realize the virtual packaging of the visualized image. The simulation results show that the visual image virtual packaging model based on visual communication improves the buffering speed of visual image by 66.6% compared with the visual image virtual packaging model based on machine vision.
A Dynamic Equilibrium Mechanism of Core Layer Interests in the Mobile Medical Platform Ecosystem
Authors: Shenghua Zheng , Bader Hakam , Jue Chen
Published: January 2022

In recent years, with the development of the mobile Internet, big data, and cloud computing, the mobile medical platforms such as Ding Xiang Yuan aggregating platform ecological resources have played an irreplaceable role in improving efficiency, optimizing resource allocation, and even promoting the transformation and upgrading of the medical industry. Despite all this, most mobile medical platforms in China still face many problems, including the immature business model, the stagnation of the interaction of knowledge and information among platform members, and the weak platform competitiveness. Based on a review of the platform and commercial ecosystems, this paper adopts the evolutionary game method and simulation to analyze the evolutionary stability strategy of operators, partners, and users in the core layer of the platform during preflow and postflow periods of a mobile medical platform, hence, to construct a beneficial dynamic equilibrium model of a platform business ecosystem under the optimal decisions made by all parties involved in the platform: the goal in the early stage (preflow period) is to increase platform user flow. Hence, the knowledge/information sharing of platform users is needed to enhance platform’s visibility. While in the late period (postflow period), when the platform user flow reaches a certain scale, platform’s goal is to promote revenue, which relies mainly on the pricing strategy. It is critical to promote the stability of the platform and the dynamic balance of interests at the core layer in the pricing process. This paper applies the platform business ecosystem theory and the evolutionary game theory to mobile medical platform development, contributing theoretically and practically in the following: (1) providing a more solid theoretical support for the mobile medical platform research and enriching the theoretical framework of the platform business ecosystem; (2) proposing the dynamic equilibrium model based on the optimal decisions of the platform core layers, which help to reveal the inherent law of the evolution of the mobile medical platform; (3) providing policy suggestions and management implications in constructing an appropriate business ecosystem and achieving sustainable development in mobile medical platforms.
Modeling and Analysis of Learners’ Emotions and Behaviors Based on Online Forum Texts
Authors: Li Mingyong , Ge Mingyuan , Zhao Honggang , An Ziye
Published: January 2022

Under the continuous impact of the epidemic, online learning methods represented by MOOC have developed rapidly. The course forum area has produced a large amount of text-based unstructured data, which can reflect the potential characteristics of learners’ emotional states and behavioral interactions, and has an important impact on students’ learning outcomes. To this end, this paper constructs an emotional and behavioral analysis model based on online forum texts, obtains forum data from the “Python Language Programming” course on the Chinese University MOOC platform, uses domain dictionary emotion classification method to analyze learning emotions, and based on the method of cognitive behavior coding table and knowledge construction behavior coding table analyzes learners’ cognitive behavior and knowledge construction behavior. It can dynamically analyze learners’ emotions, behavior changes, and evolutionary trends. This research provides opinions and suggestions on the improvement of platform interactive functions for teachers’ online teaching, students’ online learning, and platform management, which can effectively improve the efficiency and effectiveness of online learning.
Association of Genetic Ancestry and Molecular Signatures with Cancer Survival Disparities: A Pan-Cancer Analysis
Authors: Lee Kara Keun , Rishishwar Lavanya , Ban Dongjo , Nagar Shashwat Deepali , Mariño-Ramírez Leonardo , McDonald John F. , Jordan I. King
Published: January 2022

While overall cancer mortality has steadily decreased in recent decades, cancer health disparities among racial and ethnic population groups persist. Here we studied the relationship between cancer survival disparities (CSD), genetic ancestry (GA), and tumor molecular signatures across 33 cancers in a cohort of 9,818 patients. GA correlated with race and ethnicity but showed observable differences in effects on CSD, with significant associations identified in four cancer types: breast invasive carcinoma (BRCA), head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC), and skin cutaneous carcinoma (SKCM). Differential gene expression and methylation between ancestry groups associated cancer-related genes with CSD, of which, seven protein-coding genes [progestin and adipoQ receptor family member 6 (PAQR6), Lck-interacting transmembrane adaptor 1 (LIME1), Sin3A-associated protein 25 (SAP25), MAX dimerization protein 3 (MXD3), coiled-coil glutamate rich protein 2 (CCER2), refilin A (RFLNA), and cathepsin W (CTSW)] significantly interacted with GA and exacerbated observed survival disparities. These findings indicated that regulatory changes mediated by epigenetic mechanisms have a greater contribution to CSD than population-specific mutations. Overall, we uncovered various molecular mechanisms through which GA might impact CSD, revealing potential population-specific therapeutic targets for groups disproportionately burdened by cancer.

Significance:

This large-cohort, multicancer study identifies four cancer types with cancer survival disparities and seven cancer-related genes that interact with genetic ancestry and contribute to disparities.
Night Shift Work, MTNR1B rs10830963 Polymorphism, and Prostate Cancer Risk: Findings from a Prospective, Population-Based Study
Authors: Yang Lulu , Chen Jie , Feng Hongliang , Ai Sizhi , Liu Yue , Chen Xinru , Lei Binbin , Chan Joey W.Y. , Chau Steven Wai Ho , Tse Lap Ah , Ho Amy Wing-Yin , Ho Chung Shun , Wing Yun Kwok , Zhang Jihui
Published: January 2022

Background:

The association between night shift work and prostate cancer is controversial. Evidence shows that genetic and environmental factors both contribute to the development of prostate cancer. It is well known that melatonin plays a protective role in prostate cancer. Melatonin receptor 1B gene (MTNR1B) rs10830963 influences the dynamics of melatonin secretion, and night shift work, which disrupts our internal circadian rhythms, also dysregulates the production of melatonin. Therefore, we aimed to examine the interaction between night shift work and rs10830963 polymorphism on prostate cancer.

Methods:

This is a prospective cohort study based on UK Biobank that included 133,416 employed male participants. Exposures included night shift work and rs10830963 polymorphism. The primary outcome was the incidence of prostate cancer. Cox regression analysis was used to estimate the association of night shift work and MTNR1B rs10830963 with prostate cancer.

Results:

A significant interaction was found between night shift work and MTNR1B rs10830963 on the incidence of prostate cancer (P = 0.009). Among non–night shift workers, rs10830963 polymorphism was not significantly associated with the risk of prostate cancer. Among night shift workers, compared with CC carriers, GC carriers had a significantly lower risk of prostate cancer [HR: 0.69; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.51–0.93], and similar associations were more evident for GG carriers (HR: 0.33; 95% CI: 0.15–0.75).

Conclusions:

Compared with MTNR1B rs10830963 CC, carrying allele G may reduce the risk of prostate cancer when exposed to night shift work.

Impact:

These results suggest that rs10830963 G carriers may have a lower risk of prostate cancer when taking night shifts.
Preoperative Chemoradiotherapy plus Nivolumab before Surgery in Patients with Microsatellite Stable and Microsatellite Instability–High Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer
Authors: Bando Hideaki , Tsukada Yuichiro , Inamori Koji , Togashi Yosuke , Koyama Shohei , Kotani Daisuke , Fukuoka Shota , Yuki Satoshi , Komatsu Yoshito , Homma Shigenori , Taketomi Akinobu , Uemura Mamoru , Kato Takeshi , Fukui Makoto , Wakabayashi Masashi , Nakamura Naoki , Kojima Motohiro , Kawachi Hiroshi , Kirsch Richard , Yoshida Tsutomu , Suzuki Yutaka , Sato Akihiro , Nishikawa Hiroyoshi , Ito Masaaki , Yoshino Takayuki
Published: January 2022

Purpose:

Preoperative chemoradiotherapy (CRT) and surgical resection are the standard treatment for locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC). Combining immune checkpoint inhibitors with radiation suggests a promising approach for enhancing efficacy. We investigated the efficacy of CRT followed by nivolumab and surgery in patients with LARC.

Patients and Methods:

In phase I, we investigated the feasibility of sequentially combined CRT, 5 cycles of nivolumab, and radical surgery. In phase II, patients with microsatellite stable (MSS) and microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) LARC were evaluated.

Results:

Three patients in phase I received full courses of CRT and nivolumab without dose modification; the schedule was recommended for phase II. A pathologic complete response (pCR) was centrally confirmed in 30% [11/37; 90% confidence interval (CI), 18%–44%] and 60% (3/5) of the MSS and exploratory MSI-H cohorts, respectively. While immune-related severe adverse events were observed in 3 patients, no treatment-related deaths were observed. In 38 patients with MSS who underwent surgery, pCR rates of 75% (6/8) and 17% (5/30; P = 0.004, Fisher exact test) were observed in those with programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) tumor proportion score ≥1% and <1%, respectively; IHC staining was performed using pre-CRT samples. In 24 patients with MSS, pre-CRT samples were analyzed by flow cytometry; pCR rates of 78% (7/9) and 13% (2/15; P = 0.003, Fisher exact test) were observed for CD8+ T cell/effector regulatory T cell (CD8/eTreg) ratios of ≥2.5 and <2.5, respectively, in tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes.

Conclusions:

CRT followed by consolidation nivolumab could increase pCR. PD-L1 expression and an elevated CD8/eTreg ratio were positive predictors in patients with MSS LARC.
Examining Tobacco Treatment Perceptions and Barriers among Black versus Non-Black Adults Attending Lung Cancer Screening
Authors: Bold Krysten W. , Cannon Sydney , Ford Bennie B. , Neveu Susan , Sather Polly , Toll Benjamin A. , Fucito Lisa M.
Published: January 2022

The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends annual lung cancer screening for patients at high risk based on age and smoking history. Understanding the characteristics of patients attending lung cancer screening, including potential barriers to quitting smoking, may inform ways to engage these high-risk patients in tobacco treatment and address health disparities. Patients attending lung cancer screening who currently smoke cigarettes completed a survey at Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale-New Haven (N = 74) and the Medical University of South Carolina (N = 73) at the time of their appointment. The survey assessed demographics, smoking history, and perceptions and concerns about quitting smoking.

Patients were 55 to 76 years old (mean = 63.3, SD = 5.3), N = 64 (43.5%) female, and N = 31 (21.1%) non-Hispanic Black. Patients smoked 16.3 cigarettes per day on average (SD = 9.2) and rated interest in quitting smoking in the next month as moderate (mean = 5.6, SD = 3.1, measured from 0 = “very definitely no” to 10 = “very definitely yes”). The most frequently endorsed concerns about quitting smoking were missing smoking (70.7%), worry about having strong urges to smoke (63.9%), and concerns about withdrawal symptoms (59.9%). In comparison with other races/ethnicities, Black patients were less likely to report concerns about withdrawal symptoms and more likely to report smoking less now and perceiving no need to quit. Findings identified specific barriers for tobacco treatment and differences by race/ethnicity among patients attending lung cancer screening, including concerns about withdrawal symptoms and perceived need to quit. Identifying ways to promote tobacco treatment is important for reducing morbidity and mortality among this high-risk population.

Prevention Relevance:

The current study examines patient characteristics and tobacco treatment perceptions and barriers among patients attending lung cancer screening who continue to smoke cigarettes that may help inform ways to increase treatment engagement and address tobacco-related health disparities to reduce morbidity and mortality from smoking.
A diferença em outros contextos: profissionais transexuais com ensino superior inseridos no mundo do trabalho
Authors: Ziliotto Denise Macedo , Davies Simone Maria , Itaqui Cintia
Published: January 2022

O artigo tem como objetivo analisar narrativas de profissionais transexuais acerca de suas experiências no mundo do trabalho. Com esse intuito, foi desenvolvida pesquisa qualitativa exploratória, realizada por meio de entrevistas com três mulheres transexuais e um homem trans, que possuem vínculos formais de trabalho em empresas e são residentes emdiferentes cidades brasileiras. A coleta de dados, submetida à análise de conteúdo, identificou que a empregabilidade dosprofissionais se relaciona com aspectos como escolaridade e raça. A não identificação da transexualidade no ambiente laboral é percebida como um facilitador, em razão da passibilidade e cisnormatividade dos corpos; contudo, foram vivenciadas situações de discriminação em razão de atitudes transfóbicas em processos seletivos e no contexto laboral. A mudança no registro civil e a abertura à diferença nas empresas são defendidas pelo/as participantes como decisivas, assinalando-se como questões estruturais a importância de ações afirmativas que incidam no âmbito educacional e nomundo do trabalho.
Profissão e profissionalização de cuidadores: um estudo a partir dos discursos de sites de empresas especializadas no Brasil
Authors: Silva Clara Luisa Oliveira , Silva Alice Gerlane Cardoso da , Palhares José Vitor , Paiva Kely César Martins de
Published: January 2022

No Brasil, a precariedade das políticas públicas voltadas ao cuidado abriu espaço para a privatização e mercantilização do cuidado por meio de planos de saúde e outros tipos de serviços de assistência oferecidos pelas empresas e agências de home care. Mediante esse contexto, o objetivo deste estudo é analisar o discurso empresarial oficial brasileiro sobre o profissional e a profissionalização do cuidador. Para isso, desenvolveu-se um estudo descritivo, de abordagem qualitativa. Os dados foram empreendidos a partir da seleção de discursos apresentados em sites de empresas que oferecem a contratação e/ou indicação dos serviços de cuidador profissional. Para a interpretação do material coletado, utilizou-se o aparato teórico-metodológico de análise do discurso em sua vertente francesa. Dentre os principais resultados, destacamos o discurso da humanização, compromisso e emoções do cuidado propagado pelas empresas em uma tentativa de omitir a relação comercial proveniente da dinâmica dessa ocupação e da precarização das relações de trabalho no âmbito desse mercado.
Um resgate de si: itinerário terapêutico de um caso de adoecimento mental relacionado ao trabalho
Authors: Rodrigues Joyce Cristina , Chamouton Carla Salles , Nakamura Helenice Yemi , Souza Heloisa Aparecida de
Published: January 2022

Este artigo reflete sobre o processo de reabilitação de adoecimento mental relacionado ao trabalho por meio da reconstituição do Itinerário Terapêutico de uma trabalhadora, evidenciando a importância dos serviços públicos de saúde. Mesmo diante do expressivo aumento dos casos de adoecimento mental e das evidências de relação com as condições e formas de organização do trabalho, raramente as situações laborais são consideradas nas avaliações dos serviços de saúde. Mesmo com o atual contexto de desmonte da saúde pública, existem exemplos de atuações exitosas, como a que discutimos aqui. Por meio de entrevista semidirigida com uma trabalhadora e construção do Itinerário Terapêutico, buscou-se compreender seu processo de adoecimento mental, a relação com o trabalho e o percurso de reabilitação. Os resultados demonstram a importância do entendimento do trabalho como determinante de saúde, da elaboração de projetos terapêuticos singulares e da atenção integral, revelando que a articulação em rede, o estabelecimento de vínculo e a busca pelo protagonismo do usuário são essenciais na atenção à saúde mental relacionada ao trabalho.
Toward a Reading of Proverbs 30:1b: Tracing the Life of the Text in the Versions
Authors: Kirk Alexander T.
Published: January 2022

Proverbs 30:1b presents one of the most intractable text-critical dilemmas in the HB. Following Ronald Troxel’s suggestion that text criticism be reimagined as “a commentary on the life of the text,” I suggest the way forward in reading Prov 30:1b lies in carefully engaging with the versions as a window on its history. Emerging from this process, I argue that Prov 30:1b may have once read *לָאִיתִי וְלֹא אוּכָל, “I am weary and powerless.” Early on, however, this text was conflated with another textual tradition that read a proper name thus producing a double reading. In time, scribes harmonized this double reading which then calcified in MT. The versions and analogous biblical passages suggest the proposed text, while documented scribal practice and lexical usage support it.
The Profit of a Land and the Purpose of a King: The Translation and Interpretation of Ecclesiastes 5:8
Authors: Rogland Max
Published: January 2022

The MT of Eccl 5:8 presents challenges of lexicography, grammar, and syntax, in addition to exegetical and text-critical difficulties. This article surveys some attempts to interpret Eccl 5:8 without resorting to textual emendation, and then proposes a new translation and analysis of the MT in its exegetical context. Ecclesiastes 5:8 delineates the benefit of a land or country as being found “in the whole” rather than in one of its component parts. While one will observe governmental corruption in an individual “province” (v. 7), Qoheleth observes that a national governing structure, embodied in a king, brings the benefit of political stability, which ultimately enables an agrarian society to flourish.
Scholarly Values, Methods, and Evidence in the Academic Study of Religion
Authors: Taves Ann , Wildman Wesley J. , Shults F. LeRon , Paloutzian Raymond F.
Published: January 2022

The Values in Scholarship on Religion (VISOR) project collected data on the preferred methods and values of scholars in the academic study of religion. This dataset supports comparisons between members of the American Academy of Religion (AAR) and partner organizations, such as the North American Association for the Study of Religion (NAASR), as well as members of the Society for the Scientific Study of Religion (SSSR). The AAR-partner sample differs from the SSSR sample in consistently preferring humanities over empirical approaches. Both samples were modestly aligned with the secular academy in rejecting theological claims as evidence. The subgroups within the AAR-partner sample that were affiliated with the International Association for the History of Religions (IAHR) were the most firmly committed to secular approaches and evidence. These findings indicate the range of perspectives currently present in the big-tent AAR, which deliberately embraces theological scholarship as well as secular religious studies research.
Six new and a little-known species of Rudgea (Rubiaceae—Palicoureeae) from the Guianas
Authors: LACHENAUD OLIVIER , BRUNIERA CARLA P. , ZAPPI DANIELA C.
Published: January 2022

The Neotropical genus Rudgea (Rubiaceae) includes at least 120 species, 18 of which have previously been reported from the Guianas. While revising the material for the Flora of the Guianas, the authors uncovered and hereby describe six new species: R. approuaguensis, R. glomerulata, R. graniticola, R. itoupensis, R. jadinii and R. leucocarpa. Most of these are endemic to French Guiana, except R. graniticola which also occurs in Suriname, and R. leucocarpa, recorded also from Suriname and northern Brazil. Additionally, the original description of Rudgea ayangannensis, endemic of Guyana, is emended as it was based on a mixture of two different species, and adjustments are provided in a new description.
First comprehensive study on distribution frequency and incidence of seed-borne pathogens from cereal and legume crops in Sri Lanka
Authors: GANESHALINGAM ARCHCHANA , DARANAGAMA DINUSHANI A.
Published: January 2022

Sri Lanka as an agricultural country requires seed health testing to manage crop diseases. So far no comprehensive research has been carried out for the proper identification of seed mycoflora affecting the seed quality in Sri Lanka. The present study strives to address this issue by identifying seed-borne fungal pathogens from stored seeds using morpho-molecular characterization. Fungal pathogens were isolated from surface-sterilized and non-surface sterilized seeds of Arachis hypogea, Oryza sativa, Vigna radiata, and Vigna sinensis. PCR amplification and DNA sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region was carried out for molecular identification of pathogens. The germination quality of each seed variety was calculated by pot experiments. Distribution frequencies, percentage of germination, and seedling vigor were calculated and analyzed for each seed variety tested. In total eighteen isolates were recovered from the four seed varieties. Molecular characterization revealed that the fungal isolates recovered from all the four seed varieties belong to seven genera: Aspergillus, Bipolaris, Daldinia, Macrophomina, Orbilia, Rhizopus, and Talaromyces. Rhizopus spp. showed the highest distribution frequency (75%). Arachis hypogea showed the lowest germination percentage (20%) and lowest seedling vigor index (585). The seeds of Oryza sativa showed no germination probably due to their high incidence of fungal pathogens (four out of seven genera). This study is the first comprehensive study analyzing the seed-borne pathogens of the four most commonly consumed Sri Lankan cereal and legume crops. Results reported in this study helps to identify and implement optimum storage facilities and control such fungal pathogens in future agricultural practices.
A Quantitative Analysis of Drug Loading Efficiency and Real-Time Drug Release in ZrO2 Nanoparticles with Energy Spectrum Computed Tomography
Authors: Ji Wanying , Qi Xun , Li Hui , Zhang Yanyan , Sun Yang , Wang Jun , Xu Ke , Liu Yi
Published: January 2022

Energy spectrum computed tomography (CT) can quantify the concentrations of substances in vitro and in vivo. In this study, we designed a single-shell system of doxorubicin (DOX) loaded in zirconium dioxide nanoparticles (DOX@ZrO2 NPs) as a novel chemotherapy
drug delivery system. The concentration of DOX@ZrO2 NPs in tissue was monitored with energy spectrum CT to calculate the release of DOX from the NPs. The standard curve of the gradient concentrations of ZrO2 NPs and base material content fit a logarithmic equation. HepG2
cells were incubated with 200 μmL DOX@ZrO2 for different times. The concentration in the cells detected with energy spectrum CT correlated strongly with the concentration of chemotherapeutics in the cells (r = 0.98, P < 0.05). The data indicate that energy
spectrum CT is a reliable means of real-time monitoring of the transport of NPs and release of the NP payload in local tissue. The finding could improve the accuracy of clinical imaging and promote the therapeutic use of NPs. Free of clinical trial registeration: There were no animal and human
materials involved in this experiment.
Silk Cocoon-Derived Protein Bioinspired Gold Nanoparticles as a Formidable Anticancer Agent
Authors: Baker Abu , Wahid Iram , Hassan Baig Mohammad , Alotaibi Saqer S. , Khalid Mohammad , Uddin Imran , Dong Jae-June , Khan Mohd Sajid
Published: January 2022

We synthesized bioinspired sericin encapsulated gold nanoparticles (SGNPs) using HAuCl4 as the starting material in a bottom-up approach. Further, two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) conformational changes (folding and unfolding) in sericin were studied using
circular dichroism (CD) and fluorescence spectroscopy, respectively, during and after the synthesis of particles. Finally, the synthesized SGNPs were characterized using several physical techniques to ensure their correct synthesis and study the size, stability, and charge over the surface
of particles. At the beginning of the reaction, when gold was in the ionic form (Au+3), sericin exhibited maximum electrostatic interaction and underwent unfolding. Au+3 reduced to Au during the reaction, and sericin regained its 3D confirmation due to a decrease in its
native electrostatic interactions. However, CD revealed the same patterns of unfolding and folding; a decrease in α helix and an increase inβ3 pleated sheets were noticed. Although the 3D structure of sericin was restored after the synthesis of SGNPs, it was substantially
altered. In addition, certain changes in the 2D structure were observed; however, these did not alter the activity of sericin. Furthermore, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed these findings. The SGNPs were found to be effective against lung cancer (A549 cells), with an
IC50 of 145.49 βM, without exerting any toxic effects on normal cells (NRK cells). The effectiveness of SGNPs was examined by MTT cytotoxicity and nuclear fragmentation assays. Furthermore, we assessed their ability to produce excessive ROS and release Cyt-c from the
mitochondria for caspase-3-mediated apoptosis.
Cisplatin Loaded Poly(L-glutamic acid)-g-Methoxy Polyethylene Glycol Complex Nanoparticles Combined with Gemcitabine Presents Improved Safety and Lasting Anti-Tumor Efficacy in a Murine Xenograft Model of Human Aggressive B Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Liu Zhihe , Wang Shunan , Guo Wei , Zhang Dawei , Yu Haiyang , Song Wantong , Tang Zhaohui , Bai Ou
Published: January 2022

Cisplatin (CDDP) is a highly effective anti-tumor drug with a broad spectrum of activity. However, the clinical efficacy of CDDP-containing regimens is yet unsatisfactory due to the severe dose-related toxicity of CDDP. In a previous study, CDDP nanoparticles (L-CDDP) forms a complex
as CDDP with poly(L-glutamic acid)-g-methoxy poly(ethylene glycol) with improved safety compared to CDDP. Herein, a murine xenograft model of human aggressive B cell lymphoma (BCL) was established to explore anti-lymphoma efficiency of L-CDDP combined with GEM. BJAB cells represent an aggressive
BCL, which were utilized to explore the anti-proliferative effect, cell apoptosis via CCK-8 test and flow cytometry technology, respectively. Toxicity experiment and the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) test were conducted in Kunming mice. Tumor inhibition experiment was conducted at the dose
of MTD in SCID beige mice-bearing lymphoma. In this study, the loading capacity and encapsulating efficiency of CDDP in the L-CDDP was 18.3% and 89.7%, respectively, and the hydrodynamic diameter of the prepared L-CDDP was 20.6 nm. The CCK-8 data indicated that the anti-proliferative activity
of monodrug groups (GEM, CDDP, L-CDDP) was dose- and time-dependent in BJAB cells. The synergistic effects in anti-lymphoma were detected in these two groups (GEM+CDDP, GEM + L-CDDP). Compared to control group, the proportion of apoptotic cells in experimental groups in BJAB cells was significantly
higher at 48 h. Toxicity assays revealed that GEM + L-CDDP regimen had low hematological toxicity, hepatotoxicity, and nephrotoxicity. Tumor inhibition experiment demonstrated that GEM + L-CDDP group exhibited significant tumor-suppressing effects. Moreover, tumors continued to shrink in GEM
+ L-CDDP group, while these appeared to grow in the GEM + CDDP group. Finally, tumor necrosis was most prominent in the GEM + CDDP and GEM + L-CDDP groups, as assessed by hematoxylin-eosin staining. In conclusion, compared to CDDP, L-CDDP combined with GEM seriously induces BJAB cell apoptosis.
Also, GEM + L-CDDP exhibits low hematotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, and nephrotoxicity. Importantly, GEM + L-CDDP presents lasting anti-lymphoma efficacy in a SCID beige mice-bearing lymphoma.