bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and safety of robot-assisted laparoscopic myomectomy versus laparoscopic myomectomy: a systematic evaluation and meta-analysis
Authors: Sheng Yannan , Hong Ziqiang , Wang Jian , Mao Baohong , Wu Zhenzhen , Gou Yunjiu , Zhao Jing , Liu Qing
Published: July 2023

Objective

Systematic evaluation of the efficacy and safety of robotic-assisted laparoscopic myomectomy (RALM) versus laparoscopic myomectomy (LM).

Methods

PubMed, Embase, The Cochrane Library, and Web of Science database were searched by computer to seek relevant literature in order to compare the efficacy and safety of RALM with that of LM from the establishment of the databases to January 2023, and Review Manager 5.4 software was utilized to perform a meta-analysis on the literature.

Results

A total of 15 retrospective clinical controlled studies were included. There exists a total of 45,702 patients, among 11,618 patients in the RALM group and the remaining 34,084 patients in the LM group. Meta-analysis results revealed that RALM was associated with lesser intraoperative bleeding (MD =  − 32.03, 95%CI − 57.24 to − 6.83, P = 0.01), lower incidence of blood transfusions (OR = 0.86, 95%CI 0.77 to 0.97, P = 0.01), shorter postoperative hospital stay (MD =  − 0.11, 95%CI − 0.21 to − 0.01, P = 0.03), fewer transitions to open stomach (OR = 0.82, 95%CI 0.73 to 0.92, P = 0.0006), and lower incidence of postoperative complications (OR = 0.58, 95%CI 0.40 to 0.86, P = 0.006) than LM, whereas LM is more advantageous in terms of operative time (MD = 38.61, 95%CI 19.36 to 57.86, P < 0.0001). There was no statistical difference between the two surgical methods in terms of maximum myoma diameter (MD = 0.26, 95%CI − 0.17 to 0.70, P = 0.24).

Conclusion

In the aspects of intraoperative bleeding, lower incidence of blood transfusions, postoperative hospital stay, transit open stomach rate, and postoperative complications, RALM has a unique advantage than that of LM, while LM has advantages over RALM in terms of operative time.
Changes in work conditions and well-being among healthcare professionals in long-term care settings in the Netherlands during the COVID-19 pandemic: a longitudinal study
Authors: Scheepers Renée A. , van den Broek Thijs , Cramm Jane Murray , Finkenflügel Harry , Nieboer Anna Petra
Published: July 2023

Background

Healthcare professionals working in long-term care facilities reported heavy job demands and a lack of job resources during the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. However, how job demands and resources in these facilities changed during the pandemic, and how possible changes affected professionals’ work-related well-being, remains unclear. Thus, we explored changes in job demands and resources in the face of surging COVID-19 infection rates, and investigated associations of these changes with changes in burnout and work engagement, among healthcare professionals working in long-term care facilities in the Netherlands.

Methods

This longitudinal study was conducted with healthcare professionals working in five long-term care facilities in the Netherlands. Data were collected in early and late 2021, when infection rates in long-term care facilities were low and high (mean, 29.1 and 275.4 infections/day), respectively. In total, 173 healthcare professionals completed the validated Job Demands and Resources Questionnaire, Copenhagen Burnout Inventory, and Utrecht Work Engagement Scale at both timepoints. We performed paired-samples t tests to examine changes in job demands and resources, and fixed-effects linear regression analyses to examine associations of within-person changes in job demands and resources with those in burnout and work engagement.

Results

Healthcare professionals perceived increased workloads, associated with increased burnout and decreased work engagement during the study period. Within-person increases in perceived collegial support were associated positively with work engagement and negatively with burnout symptoms.

Conclusions

Healthcare professionals in long-term care facilities perceived increased workloads in the wake of surging infection rates during the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in increased burnout and decreased work engagement. These changes in burnout and work engagement were also perceived in response to declining collegial support. Efforts to protect the work-related well-being of healthcare professionals working in long-term care facilities in the pandemic context that focus on workload reduction and the promotion of collegial support may be most beneficial.
Cost-effectiveness of stereotactic body radiotherapy versus conventional fractionated radiotherapy for medically inoperable, early-stage non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Sun Hui , Wang Huishan , Wei Yan , Wang Haiyin , Jin Chunlin , Chen Yingyao
Published: July 2023

Background

Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) is a novel radio-therapeutic technique that has recently emerged as standard-of-care treatment for medically inoperable, early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In this study, we compared the cost-effectiveness of SBRT with that of conventional fractionated radiotherapy (CFRT) in patients with medically inoperable, early-stage NSCLC from the perspective of the Chinese health system.

Methods

A Markov model was developed to describe health states of patients after treatment with SBRT and CFRT. The recurrence risks, treatment toxicities, and utilities inputs were obtained from the literature. The costs were based on listed prices and real-world evidence. A simulation was conducted to determine the post-treatment lifetime years. For each treatment, the total costs, quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs), and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) per QALY were calculated. Deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed to assess the uncertainty of the model parameters.

Results

In the base case analysis, SBRT was associated with a mean cost of USD16,933 and 2.05 QALYs, whereas CFRT was associated with a mean cost of USD17,726 and 1.61 QALYs. SBRT is a more cost-effective strategy compared with CFRT for medically inoperable, early-stage NSCLC, with USD 1802 is saved for every incremental QALY. This result was validated by DSA and PSA, in which SBRT remained the most cost-effective option.

Conclusions

The findings suggested that, compared to CFRT, SBRT may be considered a more cost-effective strategy for medically inoperable, early-stage NSCLC.
Perspectives in Melanoma: meeting report from the Melanoma Bridge (December 1st–3rd, 2022—Naples, Italy)
Authors: Ascierto Paolo A. , Agarwala Sanjiv S. , Warner Allison Betof , Ernstoff Marc S. , Fox Bernard A. , Gajewski Thomas F. , Galon Jérôme , Garbe Claus , Gastman Brian R. , Gershenwald Jeffrey E. , Kalinski Pawel , Krogsgaard Michelle , Leidner Rom S. , Lo Roger S. , Menzies Alexander M. , Michielin Olivier , Poulikakos Poulikos I. , Weber Jeffrey S. , Caracò Corrado , Osman Iman , Puzanov Igor , Thurin Magdalena
Published: July 2023

Outcomes for patients with melanoma have improved over the past decade with the clinical development and approval of immunotherapies targeting immune checkpoint receptors such as programmed death-1 (PD-1), programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) or cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4). Combinations of these checkpoint therapies with other agents are now being explored to improve outcomes and enhance benefit-risk profiles of treatment. Alternative inhibitory receptors have been identified that may be targeted for anti-tumor immune therapy, such as lymphocyte-activation gene-3 (LAG-3), as have several potential target oncogenes for molecularly targeted therapy, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Unfortunately, many patients still progress and acquire resistance to immunotherapy and molecularly targeted therapies. To bypass resistance, combination treatment with immunotherapies and single or multiple TKIs have been shown to improve prognosis compared to monotherapy. The number of new combinations treatment under development for melanoma provides options for the number of patients to achieve a therapeutic benefit. Many diagnostic and prognostic assays have begun to show clinical applicability providing additional tools to optimize and individualize treatments. However, the question on the optimal algorithm of first- and later-line therapies and the search for biomarkers to guide these decisions are still under investigation. This year, the Melanoma Bridge Congress (Dec 1st–3rd, 2022, Naples, Italy) addressed the latest advances in melanoma research, focusing on themes of paramount importance for melanoma prevention, diagnosis and treatment. This included sessions dedicated to systems biology on immunotherapy, immunogenicity and gene expression profiling, biomarkers, and combination treatment strategies.
MiR-320a upregulation improves IL-1β-induced osteoarthritis via targeting the DAZAP1 and MAPK pathways
Authors: Mao Jing , Zhang Lei
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Osteoarthritis (OA), a constant illness described by articular cartilage degeneration, usually manifested by joint pain and helpless development. Numerous literatures suggest that microRNAs play an important regulatory role in OA, yet the role of miR-320a in OA remains largely obscure.

Materials and methods

To evaluate the expression of miR-320a mRNA, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was used. Cell counting kit-8 assay, Edu staining, Annexin V-FITC/PI apoptosis detection assay, Caspases 3 staining, and trypan staining were conducted to monitor cell proliferation and apoptosis. Western blot was applied to examine DAZAP1 and ERK/JNK/MAPK associated protein expression. Luciferase reporter gene experiments were performed to confirm the relationships between miR-320a and DAZAP1. ELISA assay was adopted to analyze the secretion of inflammation cytokines IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α.

Results

In an in vitro osteoarthritis model caused by IL-1β, miR-320a expression was markedly reduced. Overexpression of miR-320a restored IL-1β-inhibited chondrocyte proliferation, induced apoptosis and inflammatory response. Mechanistically, miR-320a affected HC-A cell proliferation, apoptosis and inflammatory response by regulating DAZAPI. Meanwhile, the ERK/JNK/MAPK pathway is also involved in the regulatory role of miR-320a on OA.

Conclusion

Our results show an important role for miR-320a and provide new therapeutic targets for avoiding and treating osteoarthritis.
High tibial osteotomy improves balance control in patients with knee osteoarthritis and a varus deformity
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Tao Hai , Zhao Yingchun , Xiang Wei , Cao Hui , Tao Fenghua
Published: July 2023

Background

Impaired knee stability is observed in patients with medial compartment knee osteoarthritis (OA) and varus malalignment. Although high tibial osteotomy (HTO) is widely used to treat OA-related knee varus deformity, its long-term influence on balance control in OA patients is poorly reported. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of HTO on balance control and assess its biological and functional significance.

Methods

Thirty-two patients with medial compartment knee OA as well as varus deformity who were scheduled for HTO underwent static posturographic tests one month pre- and three months as well as one year postoperatively, respectively, along with forty matched control subjects. Radiographic and clinical evaluations were synchronously carried out on patients pre- and postoperatively.

Results

Decreased postural sway was observed in patients one year after HTO. When compared to the control subjects, more postural sway was found in patients one month pre- and three months postoperatively. No difference was observed between the patients and control subjects one year postoperatively. The alignment and joint function of the affected knees significantly improved after HTO.

Conclusions

This study revealed that HTO improves balance control in patients with knee OA and varus deformity. Correct alignment and improved joint function enhance the likelihood of normal postural stability. Hence, this intervention allows the knee joint to recover its corrective compensatory role in postural regulation and should be taken into account for managing knee OA patients.
Novel ADCs and combination therapy in urothelial carcinoma: latest updates from the 2023 ASCO-GU Cancers Symposium
Authors: Yu Jiazheng , Wu Siyu , Li Rong , Jiang Yuanhong , Zheng Jianyi , Li Zeyu , Li Mingyang , Xin Kerong , Guan Xiaojiao , Li Shijie , Chen Xiaonan
Published: July 2023

Antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) combine the cytotoxicity of small-molecule drugs with antibody targeting. Due to their precise and powerful effect, they have become a new hotspot and an important trend in the research and development of anti-tumor antibody drugs. Every year, exciting new developments and innovations in the treatment of urological tumors are introduced at the American Society of Clinical Oncology-Genitourinary (ASCO-GU) Cancers Symposium. In this article, we summarize some of the most impressive advances in new clinical trials and clinical data on ADCs in the 2023 ASCO-GU Cancers Symposium for the treatment of urothelial carcinoma.
BCMA-targeted CAR-T cell therapies in relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma: latest updates from 2023 ASCO Annual Meeting
Authors: Wu James F. , Dhakal Binod
Published: July 2023

Treatment of relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) utilizing the novel therapeutic target of the B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) has demonstrated incredible results, leading to regulatory approval of BCMA-targeted chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapies in RRMM. With now two approved BCMA-targeted CAR-T cell therapies, investigators globally are working to build off and improve upon BCMA-targeted therapies. We discuss long-term data from the pivotal study that led to CAR-T approval, a phase 3 trial supporting their use in earlier lines, and novel manufacturing platforms to decrease vein-to-vein time. We highlight five key abstracts from the 2023 ASCO Annual Meeting that showcase these exciting updates in BCMA-directed CAR-T cell therapies in RRMM.
Identification of indications for albumin administration in septic patients with liver cirrhosis
Authors: Hu Wenhan , Chen Hui , Ma Chencheng , Sun Qin , Yang Meicheng , Wang Haofei , Peng Qingyun , Wang Jinlong , Zhang Chen , Huang Wei , Xie Jianfeng , Huang Yingzi
Published: July 2023

Background

Albumin infusion is the primary therapeutic strategy for septic patients with liver cirrhosis. Although recent studies have investigated the efficacy of albumin in the resuscitation stage of septic patients with liver cirrhosis, it remains unclear whether daily albumin administration can improve outcomes. Furthermore, the indications for initiating albumin therapy are not well defined.

Methods

Septic patients with liver cirrhosis were obtained from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care (MIMIC-IV 2.0) database. Marginal structural Cox models were employed to investigate the association between daily albumin infusion and 28-day mortality. We also aimed to explore under what circumstances enrolled patients could benefit most from albumin administration, based on the clinical parameters collected on the day of albumin infusion, including serum albumin concentration, serum lactate concentration, mean arterial pressure (MAP), and vasopressor dosage.

Results

A total of 2265 patients were included in the final analysis, of whom 1093 (48.3%) had received albumin treatment at least once. The overall 28-day mortality was 29.6%. After marginal structural modeling, daily albumin infusion was associated with a reduced risk of 28-day death (hazard ratio, 0.76; 95% CI 0.61–0.94). We found that patients benefit most from albumin infusion when initiated on the day of serum albumin concentration between 2.5 and 3.0 g/dL, serum lactate concentration greater than or equal to 2 mmol/L, MAP less than 60 mmHg, or vasopressor dosage between 0.2 and 0.3 mcg/kg/min (norepinephrine equivalent, NEE).

Conclusions

Albumin infusion is associated with a reduction in mortality in septic patients with liver cirrhosis under specific circumstances. Serum albumin concentration, serum lactate, MAP, and vasopressor dosage were found to be modifiers of treatment effectiveness and should be considered when deciding to initial albumin infusion.
Hypocalcemic tetany associated with simultaneous administration of cimetidine and nifedipine: a case report
Authors: Bezabih Yihienew M. , Bimrew Mekides A. , Bezabhe Woldesellassie M.
Published: July 2023

Background

Acute hypocalcemia is generally caused by a sudden drop in serum calcium ion and presents with a mild or severe form of tetany. Even though the occurrence of hypocalcemia is well documented with certain drugs such as calcium chelators, bisphosphonates, and cisplatin, it is a very unusual and poorly documented adverse event with cimetidine and nifedipine. Here, we present a case of severe hypocalcemic tetany during simultaneous administration of cimetidine and nifedipine in a hypertensive patient with dyspepsia.

Case presentation

A 46-year-old known human immunodeficiency virus patient from Ethiopia on antiretroviral therapy over the past 14 years presented to the emergency department with acute exacerbation of dyspepsia and hypertensive urgency. She was given intravenous cimetidine (400 mg) and oral nifedipine (30 mg) simultaneously. One hour after the administration of these two drugs, she developed severe hypocalcemic tetany with carpopedal spasm, involuntary plantar flexion, and muscle spasms. She also had severe retrosternal chest pain and shortness of breath. Her blood pressure was 160/110 mmHg during the attack and she had no skin changes, such as urticaria. She was immediately given 1 g of calcium gluconate intravenously over 30 minutes. The carpopedal spasm progressively decreased during calcium gluconate administration. An hour later, she completely regained voluntary movement of her fingers and feet. The chest pain persisted, but resolved over the next 12 hours. The patient was discharged home after 2 days of observation. This is an unusual adverse effect that needs caution during concomitant administration of these drugs.

Conclusions

Severe hypocalcemic tetany can occur with concomitant administration of cimetidine and nifedipine. Immediate treatment with calcium gluconate quickly reverses this adverse event. Concomitant administration of these drugs should be done with caution or be avoided if possible.
Mitochondrial genome study in blood of maternally inherited ALS cases
Authors: Brockmann Sarah J. , Buck Eva , Casoli Tiziana , Meirelles João L. , Ruf Wolfgang P. , Fabbietti Paolo , Holzmann Karlheinz , Weishaupt Jochen H. , Ludolph Albert C. , Conti Fiorenzo , Danzer Karin M.
Published: July 2023

Background

ALS is a heterogeneous disease in which different factors such as mitochondrial phenotypes act in combination with a genetic predisposition. This study addresses the question of whether homoplasmic (total mitochondrial genome of a sample is affected) and/or heteroplasmic mutations (wildtype and mutant mitochondrial DNA molecules coexist) might play a role in familial ALS. Blood was drawn from familial ALS patients with a possible maternal pattern of inheritance according to their pedigrees, which was compared to blood of ALS patients without maternal association as well as age-matched controls. In two cohorts, we analyzed the mitochondrial genome from whole blood or isolated white blood cells and platelets using a resequencing microarray (Affymetrix MitoChip v2.0) that is able to detect homoplasmic and heteroplasmic mitochondrial DNA mutations and allows the assessment of low-level heteroplasmy.

Results

We identified an increase in homoplasmic ND5 mutations, a subunit of respiratory chain complex I, in whole blood of ALS patients that allowed maternal inheritance. This effect was more pronounced in patients with bulbar onset. Heteroplasmic mutations were significantly increased in different mitochondrial genes in platelets of patients with possible maternal inheritance. No increase of low-level heteroplasmy was found in maternal ALS patients.

Conclusion

Our results indicate a contribution of homoplasmic ND5 mutations to maternally associated ALS with bulbar onset. Therefore, it might be conceivable that specific maternally transmitted rather than randomly acquired mitochondrial DNA mutations might contribute to the disease process. This stands in contrast with observations from Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases showing an age-dependent accumulation of unspecific mutations in mitochondrial DNA.
A study on ancient casting method via microstructures of impurities and copper found in bronze excavated from the Unified Silla Period (7th to 10th centuries)
Authors: Choi Jungeun
Published: July 2023

At the Hwangnyongsa temple site, which was founded in 633, at Dongdaebong Mountain in Korea, a large number of gilt-bronze artefacts  have been excavated. Optical microscopy, X-ray fluorescence, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, focused ion beam and transmission electron microscopy were used to identify the structure of specimen and impurities. This article investigated the impurities and copper grains in bronze Buddha robes from the Hwangnyongsa temple site to determine the ancient bronze craft technology in the  Unified Silla period (seventh–tenth). The XRF results of the specimens indicated that they were made using an alloy of copper and tin, and gold plating was only added on the front side. The microstructure of the specimen was confirmed to be a recrystallized equiaxed hexagonal structure with twins and impurities. The EDS results of the impurities indicated the molar ratio of Cu:S was 2:1, and the electron diffraction pattern substantiated this result  by indicating Cu2S (JCPDF 33-0490). The surface of the specimen consisted of a highlead layer and copper grains. It was hypothesized that the copper grains were formed by the reaction of Pb with the matte (Cu2S) during casting. Lead with black gas would aid in the production of high-quality bronze. The copper grains used were found in Silla, as they have been detected in Koryo bronze artefacts. Hence, it is plausible that the ancient artisans knew that lead provided good bronze quality during the casting process.
The making of dispensable subjects in the Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia: the relocation of the Gich community as an example
Authors: Endeshaw Marshet Girmay
Published: July 2023

The Simien Mountains National Park’s (SMNP) exoneration from the List of World Heritage Endangered is the recent story of the park. It is in September 2017 that the park has restored its place in UNESCO. Significant and sustainable reduction of human population within the park was one of the four basic standards set by the UNESCO World Heritage Commission in order to undo their decision. To fulfill UNESCO’s standard, the local government undertook relocations but inconsistently. By employing anthropological insights, this paper narrates the tale of the relocated Gich and Arkwazeye communities in the SMNP. The research used in-depth interview, discourse analysis and household surveys. Contrary to local government’s discourse on compensations, the Gich community suffered both socially and economically as a result of involuntary relocation. All the problems attached to this community are the result of the government’s non-participatory relocation plan which thus has created a dispensable subject. The Arkwazeye community, on the other hand, is experiencing a relatively stable life as they have maintained all social assets they have created as a community. The paper, therefore, recommends to the local government to individually take care of the lives of the Gich community.
Sexual dysfunction in Egyptian patients with migraine
Authors: Ragab Osama A. , Mohamed Ehab S. , Ghazi Eman A. , Basiouny Mohamed A.
Published: July 2023

Background

Migraine is believed to affect over 20% of people at some point in their lives. The presence of sexual dysfunction in migraine sufferers can cause lack of self-confidence and divorces. The aim of this work is to study sexual dysfunction in migraine headache patients.

Methods

The study was carried out at Tanta University Hospital. The study included married patients who visited our hospital clinic and have had episodic or chronic migraine headaches and another group of age and sex matched healthy subjects will be recurited as a control group. Our interview includes questions for disease duration, severity and frequency of headache attacks and attack duration. questionnaire. the Arabic Version of the Migraine Disability Assessment Scale and Beck depression inventory. Sexual function will be evaluated by an Arabic version of Arizona sexual experience scale.

Results

The ASEX score showed high significant changes between migraine patients and healthy subjects. These changes were reconfirmed when comparing male patients to healthy subjects or female patients to healthy subjects.Despite there was no significant difference regarding total ASEX score between bot male and female patients with migraine there was significant differences in the items of derive, erection/lubrication and satisfaction between them. In patients with migraine the total ASEX score was correlated with the MIDAS, Beck depression inventory, Beck anxiety inventory; but not with the age of patients or headache duration.

Conclusions

Sexual dysfunction is a common finding in migrine patients which is poorly evaluted in the clinical sitting.
Introducing Daniel Gorelick – a new Editor-in-Chief for Biology Open
Authors: Hackett Rachel
Published: July 2023

In July 2023, Daniel Gorelick was appointed Editor-in-Chief of Biology Open (BiO). Dan is currently Associate Professor in the Center for Precision Environmental Health, and Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology at the Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas, USA. He is also Director of the Zebrafish Advanced Technology Core Facility. Dan's lab studies how endocrine-disrupting chemicals and related toxicants influence embryonic development.
Impact of Laparoscopic Gastrectomy on the Completion Rate of the Perioperative Chemotherapy Regimen in Gastric Cancer: A Swedish Nationwide Study
Authors: Tsekrekos Andrianos , Borg David , Johansson Victor , Nilsson Magnus , Klevebro Fredrik , Lundell Lars , Gustafsson-Liljefors Maria , Rouvelas Ioannis
Published: July 2023

Background

Omission of prescheduled chemotherapy following surgery for gastric cancer is a frequent clinical problem. This study examined whether laparoscopic gastrectomy (LG) had a positive impact on compliance with adjuvant chemotherapy compared with open (OG).

Methods

Patients with cT2-4aN0-3M0 adenocarcinoma treated with gastrectomy and perioperative chemotherapy between 2015 and 2020 were identified in the Swedish national register. Additional information regarding chemotherapy was retrieved from medical records. Regression models were used to investigate the association between surgical approach and the following outcomes: initiation of adjuvant chemotherapy, modification, and time interval from surgery to start of treatment.

Results

A total of 247 patients were included (121 OG and 126 LG, conversion rate 11%), of which 71.3% had performance status ECOG 0 and 77.7% clinical stage II/III. In total, 86.2% of patients started adjuvant chemotherapy, with no significant difference between the groups (LG 88.1% vs OG 84.3%, p = 0.5). Reduction of chemotherapy occurred in 37.4% of patients and was similar between groups (LG 39.4% vs OG 35.1%, p = 0.6), as was the time interval from surgery. In multivariable analysis, LG was not associated with the probability of starting adjuvant chemotherapy (OR 1.36, p = 0.4) or the need for reduction (OR 1.29, p = 0.4). Conversely, major complications had a significant, negative impact on both outcomes.

Conclusions

This nationwide study demonstrated a high rate of adjuvant chemotherapy initiation after curative intended surgery for gastric cancer. A beneficial effect of LG compared with OG on the completion rate was not evident.
Modelling host-Trypanosoma brucei gambiense interactions in vitro using human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cortical brain organoids
Authors: Chandrasegaran Praveena , Nabilla Lestari Agatha , Sinton Matthew C. , Gopalakrishnan Jay , Quintana Juan F.
Published: July 2023

Background: Sleeping sickness is caused by the extracellular parasite Trypanosoma brucei and is associated with neuroinflammation and neuropsychiatric disorders, including disruption of sleep/wake patterns, and is now recognised as a circadian disorder. Sleeping sickness is traditionally studied using murine models of infection due to the lack of alternative in vitro systems that fully recapitulate the cellular diversity and functionality of the human brain. The aim of this study is to develop a much-needed in vitro system that reduces and replaces live animals for the study of infections in the central nervous system, using sleeping sickness as a model infection.

Methods: We developed a co-culture system using induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived cortical human brain organoids and the human pathogen T. b. gambiense to model host-pathogen interactions in vitro. Upon co-culture, we analysed the transcriptional responses of the brain organoids to T. b. gambiense over two time points.

Results: We detected broad transcriptional changes in brain organoids exposed to T. b. gambiense, mainly associated with innate immune responses, chemotaxis, and blood vessel differentiation compared to untreated organoids.

Conclusions: Our co-culture system provides novel, more ethical avenues to study host-pathogen interactions in the brain as alternative models to experimental infections in mice. Although our data support the use of brain organoids to model host-pathogen interactions during T. brucei infection as an alternative to in vivo models, future work is required to increase the complexity of the organoids ( e.g., addition of microglia and vasculature). We envision that the adoption of organoid systems is beneficial to researchers studying mechanisms of brain infection by protozoan parasites. Furthermore, organoid systems have the potential to be used to study other parasites that affect the brain significantly reducing the number of animals undergoing moderate and/or severe protocols associated with the study of neuroinflammation and brain infections.
Inputs-Oriented VRS DEA in dairy farms
Authors: Zuniga-Gonzalez C. A. , Jaramillo-Villanueva J. L. , Blanco-Roa N.E
Published: July 2023

Background: This paper aims to examine the efficiency of Mexico's dairy farms within its four regions of Tlaxcala Stated.

Methods: The Envelope Data Analysis (DEA) applied to the variable returns to a scale model (VRS) for the year 2020. Also, the results reveal that Tlaxcala's dairy farm efficiency, on the other hand, was adversely influenced by three inputs (costs): cost of investment in livestock, the total annual cost for feeding, reproduction, diseases and treatments, preventive medicine, sanitation, milking, fuel, and total labor.

Results:  The main findings are as follows, first, the mean efficiency for CRS, VRS, and efficiency scale was poor, below 50%. Second, 11 dairy farms were found that acted as relative pairs or reference points in the efficiency frontier. Third, excesses (slack) are estimated by identifying the farms that needed to reduce their costs to maintain the optimal level of milk production. Fourth, it observed that there were farms with very high slack; therefore, in the cost reduction projections they exceeded 50% of the original costs.

Conclusions: Finally, It concluded that based on the DEA estimates of the efficiencies indicators, discovered that the mean efficiencies of the constant and variable returns to scale, and efficiencies scale is relatively poor but significant in this production process.   As part of the study, provided The Policy suggestions.
Factors affecting the first 24-hour mortality of patients receiving emergency medical service (EMS) in a sub-urban area: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Duongthong Patcharee , Muengtaweepongsa Sombat , Lokeskrawee Thanin , Lawanaskol Suppachai , Sakornyutthadej Natee , Thongyong Patraporn
Published: July 2023

Background: Saraburi province in central Thailand connects the capital to the north and northeast. A hospital-based model drives the Emergency Medical Service (EMS) system in Saraburi’s vicinity. We studied factors related to death within 24 hours of EMS patients.

Methods:Patients who received EMS from the high-level operation team of Saraburi Hospital from 1 May 2017 - 7 July 2019 were enrolled in the study. Various factors that may affect death within 24 hours were collected. Data were analyzed by flexible parametric survival analysis using an exploratory model.

Result:Out of 2,321 patients, 118 died within 24 hours. The factors associated with a statistically significant increase in the hazard ratio of death within 24 hours were male sex (aHR, 1.69; 95% CI, 1.05-2.71; p= 0.031), time from symptom onset to calling for medical assistance within two hours (aHR, 3.04; 95% CI, 1.12-8.24; p= 0.029), diastolic blood pressure < 60 mmHg (aHR, 3.21; 95% CI, 1.01-10.21; p= 0.049), pulse < 50 or ≥120 beats/min (aHR, 2.17; 95% CI, 1.00-4.71; p= 0.050), Glasgow Coma Scale  ≤ 8 (aHR, 16.16; 95% CI, 6.68-39.11; p< 0.001), transport time >15 min (aHR, 2.02; 95% CI, 1.01-4.03;p= 0.046) and present prehospital life-saving intervention (aHR, 3.52; 95% CI, 1.30-9.51, p= 0.013). Factors associated with a statistically significant decrease in this ratio were the distance from the scene to the hospital >10 km (aHR, 0.35; 95% CI, 0.18-0.71; p= 0.004), and the synchronized operation with the Basic Life Support (BLS) team (aHR, 0.40; 95%CI, 0.20-0.81; p=0.010).

Conclusions: The study emphasizes the importance of early intervention, synchronized operations, and access to appropriate levels of care in improving patient outcomes and reducing mortality in patients receiving EMS. Further prospective studies are required to confirm these results.
Technical Note—Online Matching with Bayesian Rewards
Authors: Simchi-Levi David , Sun Rui , Wang Xinshang
Published: July 2023

In This Issue

Navigating Dynamic Resource Allocation: A Bayesian Approach

In “Online Matching with Bayesian Rewards,” D. Simchi-Levi, R. Sun, and X. Wang address an online matching problem where a central platform must allocate limited resources to user groups arriving sequentially over time. The paper innovatively considers the variability in the reward for each matching option, which depends on both the resource type and the user’s arrival time. The challenge lies in the fact that these matching rewards are initially unknown but are assumed to be drawn from known probability distributions. The platform is then tasked with learning these true rewards in real time based on the observed matching results. This intriguing exploration of online Bayesian matching techniques provides valuable insights for improving resource allocation in dynamic environments.
ANÁLISE SOBRE A GESTÃO PÚBLICA DOS RESÍDUOS SÓLIDOS EM MINAS GERAIS
Authors: Gregório Caroline Miguel , Dos Santos Ana Paula Silva , Pereira Fernando Batista , Da Silva Éverton Rodriges
Published: July 2023

Este artigo investiga a gestão dos resíduos sólidos urbanos em Minas Gerais, um dos principais assuntos na agenda urbana contemporânea. Além de análise documental e bibliográfica, a pesquisa contou com entrevistas semiestruturadas com especialistas e profissionais da área. A análise evidenciou que os municípios menores encontram dificuldades para o gerenciamento do lixo por causa da falta de recursos financeiro e técnicos, obstáculo que pode ser compensado por consórcios intermunicipais. Observou-se que poucas cidades possuem o Plano Municipal de Gestão Integrada de Resíduos Sólidos (PMGIRS) e que a coleta seletiva é uma ação inexistente na maior parte dos municípios mineiros. Adicionalmente, constatou-se que a educação ambiental ainda é frágil, o que dificulta a percepção da população quanto à necessidade de cobrança junto a políticos e atores de mercado. Conclui-se que os desafios para o destino correto do lixo no Estado envolvem mobilização, recursos e conscientização da população.
EDUCAÇÃO TRANSGRESSORA: PRÁTICAS DO INSTITUTO LIVMUNDI PARA DESPERTAR A CONSCIÊNCIA SOCIOAMBIENTAL
Authors: Coutinho Luciane Pereira , Lavaquial Ana C.C. , Tourinho Letícia Eloy
Published: July 2023

O artigo discute a necessidade de repensar a educação diante da crise socioambiental e climática. Destaca a importância de uma abordagem educacional transformadora e transgressora, que enfatize a interdependência entre os seres humanos e a natureza, e apresenta o Instituto LivMundi como uma iniciativa que busca promover essa educação crítica e transformadora. O texto aborda práticas realizadas pelo Instituto, como jornadas de aprendizagem, envolvendo educadores e estudantes. Além disso, enfatiza a importância de conectar os jovens com seus territórios de pertencimento e de promover a compreensão cognitiva e empatia emocional em relação à natureza por meio da comunicação, artes e entretenimento. O artigo conclui afirmando que é preciso repensar o modelo educacional atual, de forma a promover uma educação crítica e transformadora, que contribua para enfrentar os desafios socioambientais do presente e do futuro, através de metodologias que privilegiam experiências dos participantes para buscar o bem-estar amplo a partir dos indivíduos.
Cool Tech to Make Electric Cars Lighter
Authors: Knight Helen
Published: July 2023

Fibre-reinforced polymers could make vehicles’ motors more efficient
£1m Prize Goes to GPS Inventors
Authors: Excell Jon
Published: July 2023

Four men ‘rewrote the world's infrastructure’
Automation in the Aisles
Authors: Kenward Michael
Published: July 2023

Machines play a vital role in Amazon's Baltimore operation
Analysis of Pedagogical Content Knowledge in Science Teacher Education: A Systematic Review 2011-2021
Authors: Almonacid-Fierro Alejandro , Sepúlveda-Vallejos Sergio , Valdebenito Karla , Montoya-Grisales Noelva , Aguilar-Valdés Mirko
Published: July 2023

Pedagogical content knowledge (PCK) consists of a set of understandings, knowledge, skills, and dispositions necessary for effective performance in specific teaching and learning situations. Using Scopus, EBSCO, and Web of Science databases, the study examines the progress of the PCK in science teacher education between 2011 and 2021. In total, 59 articles were reviewed, and 13 were selected according to the inclusion criteria. Among the findings, it stands out that the articles emphasize a series of tools used when teaching applied sciences, such as the use of educational technologies beyond the textbook or the integration of students' thinking. The articles state that PCK transcends subject knowledge and leads to subject knowledge for teaching. Finally, the literature has tried to answer how science teachers use PCK in the classroom, demonstrating strategies and practical value, both of which are vital for the functioning and application of their educational work.
A linguistic and thematic analysis of Khal Torabully’s Coolitude
Authors: Cuniah Christian
Published: July 2023

Following the end of slavery, the Indians contracted to work in the colonies were always seen in a negative light; they were known as ‘beasts of burden’; the designation ‘coolie’ itself, at the time, was a derogatory term. At the beginning of the 20th century, as black intellectuals Sedar Senghor, Marcus Garvey and W.E.B. Dubois brought about a new consciousness, a renaissance of black cultures and values, other intellectuals in the colonies began to realize that their cultural specificities demanded similar awareness and recognition. Chamoiseau and Confiant were pioneers in writing about the Creole experience and identity, and popularized the concept of Creolite. However, it was recognized that Creolite could not be applied equally to all social constituents. Khal Torabully’s concept of Coolitude provides us with a theoretical framework within which the term coolie undergoes a radical change. The term is here divested of all negative associations and invested with positive connotations: shared experiences during the voyage by sea and during exile in the land of adoption, where all migrants in Coolitude have a common culture and have forged a plural identity.
Artistic meanderings through Coolitude
Authors: Amos Flynn Danny
Published: July 2023

Referencing two 19th-century identity photographs of Indian migrants named Beekano and Doorgana, taken from the research of historian Marina Carter at the Mauritian Archives, Flynn has produced artworks using the obsolete method of screen-printing to transform the portraits that originally were to aid an oppressive colonial regime focused on policing and immobilizing its immigrant labour. He has also involved the same two individuals in a fictionalized scene in which a surreal fantasy takes Beekano on a journey where he is stripped of his physical body and disappears to be released before any destination is arrived at.
(In)complete neutralization in Western Andalusian Spanish
Authors: Del Saz María
Published: July 2023

The present study addresses the occurrence of affrication in clusters other than /st/ in Western Andalusian Spanish, by means of production and perception tasks comprising /st/, /kt/, and /pt/. Our findings reveal incomplete neutralization in production, given that /kt/ presented a higher closure ratio and a lower VOT ratio than /pt/ and /st/. In perception, the three clusters were similarly labeled according to a pattern: /st/ > /kt/ > /pt/. Certain parameters such as closure and VOT ratios and center of gravity seemed to have an influence on perception. These results indicate that neutralization may be complete in perception and incomplete in production.
Forms of popular protest and notions of democracy in Italy during the Italian Wars
Authors: Cohn Jr. Samuel K.
Published: July 2023

This essay examines popular protest and resistance during the Italian Wars, 1494 to 1559, emphasizing the importance of the decade of the 1520s. It is acomparative analysis with Italy’s more thoroughly studied epoch of insurrection during the late fourteenth century and concludes that the latter period, characterized by warfare and the growth of absolutism, was rich in new forms of protest wedded to ideals of equality and early practices of democracy.
«Como en espejo». Scienza del governo e giustizia nel Tractado de República di fray Alonso de Castrillo
Authors: Quaglioni Diego
Published: July 2023

Il Tractado de República di Alonso de Castrillo è senza dubbio uno dei principali testi entro la tradizione umanistica del pensiero politico in spagnolo. Scritto nel 1520 e pubblicato poco prima della disfatta dei comuneros a Villalar, il trattato, a causa della sua attitudine mediatrice e pacificatrice, si è prestato a interpretazioni di segno differente e anche opposto. A mezza via tra la tradizione scolastica e i motivi schiettamente umanistici, e come opera di educazione politica diretta ai laici, il trattato di Castrillo deve essere rieletto con scrupolosa attenzione al testo originale e alle sue fonti, tra le quali si distingue la repetitio De iustitia et iniustitia del suo maestro Fernando de Roa.
La comunicazione politica tra Bisanzio e il Nuovo Mondo, passando per Creta e Venezia. I trattati di Menandro Retore
Authors: Robuschi Luigi
Published: July 2023

Victoria Pineda, in un articolo pubblicato nel 2000, considerava che i due trattati retorici attribuiti a Menandro di Laodicea erano stati usati nel 1577 come fonti per la redazione dei questionari delle Relaciones Geográficas de Indias. Seguendo questa intuizione, il presente contributo vuole analizzare come la retorica epidittica, che era ampiamente conosciuta in Italia tra il XV e il XVI secolo grazie alla circolazione dei manoscritti greci, fu adottata per promuovere efficaci strategie comunicative. Il ruolo socio-politico del discorso epidittico fu particolarmente conosciuto a Firenze e a Venezia. La circolazione dei trattati di Menandro, manoscritti e a stampa, da Venezia alla Spagna, offre quindi un nuovo sguardo sul ruolo della retorica sofistica nell’Europa del Rinascimento e sui suoi usi politici.
Conceptualization of Co-Creation, Co-Design and Co-Production with Children for Health-Promoting Physical Environments: A Systematic Search and Scoping Review
Authors: Williams Tiffany , Ward Kim , Smith Melody
Published: July 2023

Abstract: This scoping review identified 36 peer-reviewed studies that used a co-creation, co-design or co-production process with children (0-17 years) to understand and/or influence the physical (built or natural) environment. We examined conceptualizations of child participation and of "co" processes. Our findings highlight the opportunity for developing and improving use of child participation models; how children and childhood are viewed by adults involved in the process matters; a need for more discriminate use of the terms co-creation, co-design and co-production with clear definitions; and confirmed the flexibility of "co" processes. Based on these findings, we developed a reporting checklist for physical environment-focused studies using "co" processes with children.
Holistic Wellness in Elementary Schoolyard Environments: An Analysis of 2000-2021 Research Studies
Authors: Traub Julia , Mainzer Stephen
Published: July 2023

Abstract: A lack of direct experience with the natural environment puts children at higher risk for mental disorders, obesity, social disconnection, and poor critical-thinking skills. Despite the current knowledge that wellness is a multidimensional concept, traditional approaches to evaluating the performance impacts of schoolyard environments are surprisingly monodisciplinary. This study explored a sample of how wellness impacts in elementary schoolyards are currently being studied through a meta-analysis of post-2000 literature. The results suggest a recent trend of emerging diversity in approaches, yet there remains a gap in the research for multidisciplinary approaches that incorporate multivariate dimensions of wellness.
Evaluating Environmental Education Programs Using a Qualitative GIS Approach
Authors: Martz Corey J. , Powell Rebecca L. , Wee Bryan , Myers Angela
Published: July 2023

Abstract: Environmental education (EE) programs commonly emphasize experiencing the place(s) where a program is located. Yet, program evaluations seldom map locations where participants demonstrate outcomes, whether during or after program experiences. To explore the value of including location in program assessment, we pilot a qualitative, map-based analysis to complement current evaluation efforts of an organization providing EE programs aimed at improving access to nature in suburban Lafayette, Colorado. Our preliminary findings suggest that youth participants with more exposure to programming demonstrated more prominent nature connection and health and wellness outcomes, especially in locations near Lafayette, illustrating how consideration of outcome locations adds nuance to EE program evaluation.
Minimizing Nature Aversion among Elementary Students during Environmental Education Programs
Authors: Orr Brian , Hvenegaard Glen , Cook Carolyn
Published: July 2023

Abstract: Nature aversion, a negative human response toward nature, is a challenge for environmental educators seeking to connect students to nature. This field report examines nature aversion observations during elementary school field-trip programs to Miquelon Lake Provincial Park, in Alberta, Canada. Mitigation methods during program delivery included giving information, physically demonstrating safe nature interactions, challenging students, raising energy levels, providing safety reassurances and offering positive encouragement. Other factors affecting nature aversion through program design included appropriate preparation, hands-on experiences, group size, student expectations, inclement weather and adult supervision. This study can assist practitioners to develop their own responses to nature aversion among students.