bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Challenges, experiences, and potential supports for East and Southeast Asian mothers in the workforce: a systematic review
Authors: Ho Peh Joo , Sim Tomiko Mei Ying , Loo Christine Kim Yan , Li Jingmei
Published: July 2024

Objective

To examine the challenges faced by Asian working mothers with a focus on re-entry to the workplace. In addition, we highlight potential supports that retain women in the workforce.

Design

A systematic review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) recommendations and registered with PROSPERO database (CRD42022341130).

Methods

Three independent reviewers were involved in the study selection to screen the search results sequentially by title, abstract, and full text using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The methodological quality of each article was assessed via the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tool.

Results

We analysed a total of 36 studies conducted across different regions: 30 from the East and 6 from Southeast Asia. Among these studies, 20 were quantitative in nature, 15 were qualitative, and one intervention. The 36 studies cover five themes: 1) policies, 2) external support sources, 3) external pressure, 4) breastfeeding and 5) health status. Within each theme the same factor can have a positive or negative impact on the mother depending on her having a pro-career or pro-family mindset.

Companies can take various initiatives to support working mothers, such as providing facilities for expressing breast milk at the workplace, educating staff to promote breastfeeding and accommodate childcare needs, and extending maternity leaves. However, there is a lack of literature that directly addresses the barriers and concrete support available to working mothers in Asia, beyond the scope of breastfeeding.

Conclusions

Our findings underscore several obstacles that can impede a woman's seamless return to work. Pro-family and pro-career mothers have differing needs that cannot be addressed at the same time. There is a lack of comprehensive understanding regarding effective strategies or interventions that can support a positive reintegration into the workforce.
Efficacy and safety of 12-hour versus 24-hour magnesium sulfate in management of patients with pre-eclampsia and eclampsia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Shaheen Rahma Sameh , Ismail Rahma Abdelaziz , Salama Esraa Y. , Korini Sally Median , Elsaeidy Ahmed Saad
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Magnesium sulfate is the most utilized anticonvulsant for treating patients with eclampsia and pre-eclampsia. The purpose of this study is to determine whether the 12-h regimen of magnesium sulfate outweighs the 24-h regimen in both efficacy and safety in the management of patients with mild or severe pre-eclampsia and eclampsia.

Methods

We searched six electronic databases: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Ovid, and Google Scholar. This search was conducted to yield any studies that were published until 15 January 2023. We did the statistical analysis plan by Review Manager Software version 5.4.

Results

We included 13 randomized control trials with 2813 patients in this systematic review. Our meta-analysis revealed that there were no statistically significant differences between the 12-h regimen of the magnesium sulfate group and the 24-h regimen of the magnesium sulfate group in our outcome of interest: occurrence of seizure (RD: -0.00, 95% CI [-0.01, 0.00], P = 0.56), diminished deep tendon reflexes (RD: -0.00, 95% CI [-0.01, 0.01], P = 0.80), respiratory depression (RD: -0.00, 95% CI [-0.02, 0.01], P = 0.57), and pulmonary edema (RD: -0.00, 95% CI [-0.01, 0.01], P = 0.85).

Conclusion

Our study showed no statistically significant difference in effectiveness and toxicity risk between the 12-h and 24-h regimens.
Machine learning for the prediction of 1-year mortality in patients with sepsis-associated acute kidney injury
Authors: Li Le , Guan Jingyuan , Peng Xi , Zhou Likun , Zhang Zhuxin , Ding Ligang , Zheng Lihui , Wu Lingmin , Hu Zhicheng , Liu Limin , Yao Yan
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Sepsis-associated acute kidney injury (SA-AKI) is strongly associated with poor prognosis. We aimed to build a machine learning (ML)-based clinical model to predict 1-year mortality in patients with SA-AKI.

Methods

Six ML algorithms were included to perform model fitting. Feature selection was based on the feature importance evaluated by the SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) values. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) was used to evaluate the discriminatory ability of the prediction model. Calibration curve and Brier score were employed to assess the calibrated ability. Our ML-based prediction models were validated both internally and externally.

Results

A total of 12,750 patients with SA-AKI and 55 features were included to build the prediction models. We identified the top 10 predictors including age, ICU stay and GCS score based on the feature importance. Among the six ML algorithms, the CatBoost showed the best prediction performance with an AUROC of 0.813 and Brier score of 0.119. In the external validation set, the predictive value remained favorable (AUROC = 0.784).

Conclusion

In this study, we developed and validated a ML-based prediction model based on 10 commonly used clinical features which could accurately and early identify the individuals at high-risk of long-term mortality in patients with SA-AKI.
GluOC promotes proliferation and metastasis of TNBC through the ROCK1 signaling pathway
Authors: Xu Jiaojiao , Dong Keting , Bai Xue , Zhang Miao , Du Qian , Chen Lei , Yang Jianhong
Published: July 2024

Background

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a type of breast cancer that is negative for oestrogen receptor, progesterone receptor and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2, is highly malignant and aggressive, lacks of corresponding targeted therapy, and has a relatively poor prognosis. Therefore, understanding the mechanism of TNBC development and formulating effective treatment strategies for inducing cell death are still urgent tasks in the treatment of TNBC. Research has shown that uncarboxylated osteocalcin can promote the proliferation of prostate cancer, lung adenocarcinoma and TNBC cells, but the mechanism by which GluOC affects TNBC growth and metastasis needs further study.

Methods

MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells were used for in vitro cell analysis. Key target molecules or pathways were identified by RNA sequencing, and migration ability was detected by scratch assays, Transwell assays, cell adhesion assays and western blot analysis. Fluorescence staining, colony detection, qRT‒PCR and flow cytometry were used to detect apoptosis, oxidative stress, the cell cycle and the stemness of cancer cells, and a xenotransplantation model in BALB/C nude mice was used for in vivo analysis.

Results

This study demonstrated that GluOC facilitates the migration of MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells through the ROCK1/MYPT1/MLC2 signalling pathway and promotes the proliferation of TNBC cells via the ROCK1/JAK2/PIK3CA/AKT signalling pathway. Experiments in nude mice demonstrated that GluOC promoted tumour cell proliferation and metastasis in tumour-bearing mice, which further clarified the molecular mechanism of TNBC growth and invasion.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight the importance of GluOC in driving TNBC progression and its association with poor patient outcomes. This study clarifies the functional effects of GluOC on TNBC growth, providing insight into the molecular basis of TNBC and potentially providing new ideas for developing targeted therapies to improve patient outcomes.
The systematic role of pancreatic cancer exosomes: distant communication, liquid biopsy and future therapy
Authors: Qin Cheng , Li Tianyu , Lin Chen , Zhao Bangbo , Li Zeru , Zhao Yutong , Wang Weibin
Published: July 2024

Pancreatic cancer remains one of the most lethal diseases worldwide. Cancer-derived exosomes, benefiting from the protective role of the lipid membrane, exhibit remarkable stability in the circulatory system. These exosomes, released by tumor microenvironment, contain various biomolecules such as proteins, RNAs, and lipids that plays a pivotal role in mediating distant communication between the local pancreatic tumor and other organs or tissues. They facilitate the transfer of oncogenic factors to distant sites, contributing to the compromised body immune system, distant metastasis, diabetes, cachexia, and promoting a microenvironment conducive to tumor growth and metastasis in pancreatic cancer patients. Beyond their intrinsic roles, circulating exosomes in peripheral blood can be detected to facilitate accurate liquid biopsy. This approach offers a novel and promising method for the diagnosis and management of pancreatic cancer. Consequently, circulating exosomes are not only crucial mediators of systemic cell-cell communication during pancreatic cancer progression but also hold great potential as precise tools for pancreatic cancer management and treatment. Exosome-based liquid biopsy and therapy represent promising advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic cancer. Exosomes can serve as drug delivery vehicles, enhancing the targeting and efficacy of anticancer treatments, modulating the immune system, and facilitating gene editing to suppress tumor growth. Ongoing research focuses on biomarker identification, drug delivery systems, and clinical trials to validate the safety and efficacy of exosome-based therapies, offering new possibilities for early diagnosis and precision treatment in pancreatic cancer. Leveraging the therapeutic potential of exosomes, including their ability to deliver targeted drugs and modulate immune responses, opens new avenues for innovative treatment strategies.
Development of a humanized anti-FABP4 monoclonal antibody for potential treatment of breast cancer
Authors: Hao Jiaqing , Jin Rong , Yi Yanmei , Jiang Xingshan , Yu Jianyu , Xu Zhen , Schnicker Nicholas J. , Chimenti Michael S. , Sugg Sonia L. , Li Bing
Published: July 2024

Background

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women diagnosed in the U.S. and worldwide. Obesity increases breast cancer risk without clear underlying molecular mechanisms. Our studies demonstrate that circulating adipose fatty acid binding protein (A-FABP, or FABP4) links obesity-induced dysregulated lipid metabolism and breast cancer risk, thus potentially offering a new target for breast cancer treatment.

Methods

We immunized FABP4 knockout mice with recombinant human FABP4 and screened hybridoma clones with specific binding to FABP4. The potential effects of antibodies on breast cancer cells in vitro were evaluated using migration, invasion, and limiting dilution assays. Tumor progression in vivo was evaluated in various types of tumorigenesis models including C57BL/6 mice, Balb/c mice, and SCID mice. The phenotype and function of immune cells in tumor microenvironment were characterized with multi-color flow cytometry. Tumor stemness was detected by ALDH assays. To characterize antigen-antibody binding capacity, we determined the dissociation constant of selected anti-FABP4 antibodies via surface plasmon resonance. Further analyses in tumor tissue were performed using 10X Genomics Visium spatial single cell technology.

Results

Herein, we report the generation of humanized monoclonal antibodies blocking FABP4 activity for breast cancer treatment in mouse models. One clone, named 12G2, which significantly reduced circulating levels of FABP4 and inhibited mammary tumor growth, was selected for further characterization. After confirming the therapeutic efficacy of the chimeric 12G2 monoclonal antibody consisting of mouse variable regions and human IgG1 constant regions, 16 humanized 12G2 monoclonal antibody variants were generated by grafting its complementary determining regions to selected human germline sequences. Humanized V9 monoclonal antibody showed consistent results in inhibiting mammary tumor growth and metastasis by affecting tumor cell mitochondrial metabolism.

Conclusions

Our current evidence suggests that targeting FABP4 with humanized monoclonal antibodies may represent a novel strategy for the treatment of breast cancer and possibly other obesity- associated diseases.
SonicParanoid2: fast, accurate, and comprehensive orthology inference with machine learning and language models
Authors: Cosentino Salvatore , Sriswasdi Sira , Iwasaki Wataru
Published: July 2024

Accurate inference of orthologous genes constitutes a prerequisite for comparative and evolutionary genomics. SonicParanoid is one of the fastest tools for orthology inference; however, its scalability and accuracy have been hampered by time-consuming all-versus-all alignments and the existence of proteins with complex domain architectures. Here, we present a substantial update of SonicParanoid, where a gradient boosting predictor halves the execution time and a language model doubles the recall. Application to empirical large-scale and standardized benchmark datasets shows that SonicParanoid2 is much faster than comparable methods and also the most accurate. SonicParanoid2 is available at https://gitlab.com/salvo981/sonicparanoid2 and https://zenodo.org/doi/10.5281/zenodo.11371108.
“Adjusting internal organs and dredging channelon” electroacupuncture glycolipid metabolism disorders in NAFLD mice by mediating the AMPK/ACC signaling pathway
Authors: Jia Xinyu , Li Mengyuan , Zhang Wen , Guo Yihui , Xue Fuyu , Ma Shiqi , Yu Shuo , Zhong Zhen , Huang Haipeng
Published: July 2024

To investigate the effect mechanism of electroacupuncture based on the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) /acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) signaling pathway to improve glycolipid metabolism disorders in db/db mice. 10 db/m mice with normal genotype were used as the normal control group without diabetes (Con), and 30 db/db mice were divided randomly into three groups: Pathological model mice (Mod), Acupuncture + ACC antagonist group (Acu + ACC), and Acupuncture + AMPK antagonist group (Acu + AMPK). Con and Mod did not receive any special treatment, only as a control observation. The latter two groups of mice received electroacupuncture treatment for 4 weeks. Mouse triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C), and cholesterin(CHO) levels were detected by colorimetric assay. Enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) was used to detect insulin(INS) levels. Liver histopathologic changes and hepatic glycogen synthesis were observed by HE and PAS staining. The mRNA and protein expression of insulin receptor substrate-1(IRS1), Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase(PI3K), protein kinase B (AKT), AMPK, and ACC were detected by Western blot and qRT-PCR.The results show that compared with Mod, TG, LDL, CHO, and INS levels of Acu + AMPK and Acu + ACC mice were significantly reduced (P < 0.05), and the HDL levels were significantly increased (P < 0.05), the steatotic degeneration of mice hepatocytes was reduced to different degrees, and the hepatocyte glycogen particles were increased, and the latter two groups had a decrease in AKT, ACC mRNA expression was reduced (P < 0.05), PI3K protein expression was increased, and AKT and ACC protein expression was reduced (P < 0.05), in addition, protein expression of AMPK was increased and IRS1 protein expression was reduced in Acu + ACC (P < 0.05). The study showed that electroacupuncture improves glucose-lipid metabolism disorders in db/db mice, and this mechanism is related to the AMPK/ACC signaling pathway.
Plasma neurofilament light, glial fibrillary acid protein, and phosphorylated tau 181 as biomarkers for neuropsychiatric symptoms and related clinical disease progression
Authors: Rabl Miriam , Zullo Leonardo , Lewczuk Piotr , Kornhuber Johannes , Karikari Thomas K. , Blennow Kaj , Zetterberg Henrik , Bavato Francesco , Quednow Boris B. , Seifritz Erich , von Gunten Armin , Clark Christopher , Popp Julius
Published: July 2024

Background

Neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) are common in older people, may occur early in the development of dementia disorders, and have been associated with faster cognitive decline. Here, our objectives were to investigate whether plasma levels of neurofilament light chain (NfL), glial fibrillary acid protein (GFAP), and tau phosphorylated at threonine 181 (pTau181) are associated with current NPS and predict future NPS in non-demented older people. Furthermore, we tested whether the presence of NPS combined with plasma biomarkers are useful to predict Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathology and cognitive decline.

Methods

One hundred and fifty-one participants with normal cognition (n = 76) or mild cognitive impairment (n = 75) were examined in a longitudinal brain aging study at the Memory Centers, University Hospital of Lausanne, Switzerland. Plasma levels of NfL, GFAP, and pTau181 along with CSF biomarkers of AD pathology were measured at baseline. NPS were assessed through the Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire (NPI-Q), along with the cognitive and functional performance at baseline and follow-up (mean: 20 months). Different regression and ROC analyses were used to address the associations of interest.

Results

None of the three plasma biomarker was associated with NPS at baseline. Higher GFAP levels were associated with the presence of NPS at follow-up (OR = 2.8, p = .002) and both, higher NfL and higher GFAP with an increase in the NPI-Q severity score over time (β = 0.25, p = .034 and β = 0.30, p = .013, respectively). Adding NPS and the plasma biomarkers to a reference model improved the prediction of future NPS (AUC 0.72 to 0.88, p = .002) and AD pathology (AUC 0.78 to 0.87, p = .010), but not of cognitive decline (AUC 0.79 to 0.85, p = .081).

Conclusion

Plasma NfL and GFAP are both associated with future NPS and NPS severity change. Considering the presence of NPS along with blood-based AD-biomarkers may improve the prediction of clinical progression of NPS over time and inform clinical decision-making in non-demented older people.
Clinical presentation, outcome and prognostic factors in dogs with immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia: a retrospective single-centre study of 104 cases in Ireland (2002–2020)
Authors: Duclos Antoine A. , Bailén Esther López , Barr Kathryn , Le Boedec Kevin , Cuq Benoît
Published: July 2024

Background

Immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia (IMHA) has a high mortality rate within the first weeks to months of diagnosis. Identifying dogs at increased risk of death may help guide decision-making for owners and veterinarians. Prior studies have identified several but inconsistent prognostic factors. The objectives of the study were to describe the clinical presentation and outcome of canine immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia in Ireland and to assess for independent factors associated with survival including long-term survival. Medical records from a single centre were reviewed between 2002 and 2020 to identify dogs with immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia using the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) consensus statement algorithm. Survival analysis was performed using univariable Cox proportional hazards regression models with Breslow method for ties to identify prognostic factors.

Results

One hundred and four cases were included. The diagnosis of immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia was classified as definitive, supportive and suspicious in 42 (40%), 50 (48%), and 12 dogs (12%) respectively. Twenty-two dogs (21%) were diagnosed with associative IMHA and 82 dogs were diagnosed with non-associative IMHA (79%). 65% of the cases received more than one immunosuppressive medication during the course of treatment. The mortality rate at one and three months was 16% (95% confidence interval [CI] 9–26) and 31% (95% CI 21–43) respectively. Excluding dogs that died within three months, the median survival time was 2664 days. The relapse rate during the follow-up period was 7%. Survival did not improve over the course of the study period. Thrombocytopenia and hyperbilirubinaemia were identified as negative prognostic indicators (Hazard ratio 2.2 and 2.5, 95% CI 1.1–4.1 and 1.1–5.6, respectively).

Conclusions

Excluding dogs that died within three months, the outcome was good in dogs with non-associative immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia in Ireland. The relapse rate was low regardless of the presence of associative causes. Thrombocytopenia and hyperbilirubinaemia were the only independent negative prognostic factors. The one-month and three-month mortality rates were similar compared to prior studies and survival did not improve over time during the study period: the mortality rate of canine immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia remains high in the acute phase.
Generative innovations for paleography: enhancing character image synthesis through unconditional single image models
Authors: Aswathy A. , Maheswari P. Uma
Published: July 2024

Data scarcity in paleographic image datasets poses a significant challenge to researchers and scholars in the field. Unlike modern printed texts, historical manuscripts and documents are often scarce and fragile, making them difficult to digitize and create comprehensive datasets. Recently many innovations have been arrived on single image generative models for natural images but none of them are focused on paleographic character images and other handwritten datasets. In paleographic images like stone inscription characters, maintaining exact shape and structure of character is important unlike natural images. In this paper we propose an unconditional single image generative model, CharGAN for isolated paleographic character images. In the proposed system, augmented images are generated from a single image using generative adversarial networks, while maintaining their structure. Specifically, an external augmentation inducer is used to create higher-level augmentations in the generated images. In addition, the input to the generator is replaced with dynamic sampling from a Gaussian mixture model to make changes to the low-level features. From our experimental results, we infer that these two enhancements make single-image generative models suitable not only for natural images, but also for paleographic character images and other handwritten character datasets, the AHCD dataset, and EMNIST, where the global structure is important. Both the qualitative and quantitative results show that our approach is effective and superior in single-image generative tasks, particularly in isolated character image generation.
Biostimulation of humic acids on Lepidium sativum L. regulated by their content of stable phenolic O⋅ radicals
Authors: Vitti Antonella , Coviello Leonardo , Nuzzaci Maria , Vinci Giovanni , Deligiannakis Yiannis , Giannakopoulos Evangelos , Ronga Domenico , Piccolo Alessandro , Scopa Antonio , Drosos Marios
Published: July 2024

Background

Humic acid affects plant growth. Its source and structure may play a central role to its functionality. The relationship between humic acid and plant bioactivity is still unclear. This study investigated the biostimulation effects of two natural humic acids derived from soil (SHA) and lignite (LHA) on Lepidium sativum in comparison to a synthetic humic acid model (HALP) with known structure.

Results

All humic acids positively affected cress seed germination and root elongation. Greater root hairs density and dry matter, compared to control, were observed using concentration of 5 mg L−1 for HALP, 50 mg L−1 for LHA, and 100 mg L−1 for SHA. The germination index was the largest (698% more effective than control) with 50 mg L−1 of SHA, while it was 528% for LHA, and 493% for HALP at 5 mg L−1. SHA contained the lowest aromatic and phenolic C content, the largest pK2 value of 9.0 (7.7 for LHA and 7.6 for HALP), the least ratio between the aromaticity index and lignin ratio (ARM/LigR) of 0.15 (0.66 for LHA and 129.92 for HALP), and at pH 6.3 the lowest amount of free radicals with a value of 0.567 × 1017 spin g−1 (1.670 × 1017 and 1.780 × 1017 spin g−1 for LHA and HALP, respectively), with the greatest g value of 2.0039 (2.0035 for LHA and 2.0037 for HALP).

Conclusions

The overall chemical structure of humic acids exerted a biostimulation of cress plantlets. The level of the intrinsic stable free radicals identified by EPR in the humic acids resulted well correlated to the ARM/LigR ratio calculated by NMR. Our results suggested that HA biostimulation effect is related to its applied concentration, which is limited by its free radical content. The modulation of the humic supramolecular structure by ROS and organic acids in root exudates can determine the release of bioactive humic molecules. When the content of the intrinsic humic free radicals is high, possible molecular coupling of the bioactive humic molecules may hinder their biostimulation activity. In such cases, a low humic acid concentration appears to be required to achieve the optimum biostimulation effects.

Graphical Abstract
Comparison of human milk bottle with infant/toddler test weights in the community setting
Authors: Esquerra-Zwiers Anita L. , Heter Madeline , Perecki Anastasia , Jackson Olivia , Jongekryg D. Addam , Yurk Brian
Published: July 2024

Background

The accuracy of infant intake using test weights (TWs), the change in weight before and after an infant feeds, has only been validated in hospitalized premature infants. This study’s primary aim was to identify how accurate parent infants/toddler (< 2 years old) TWs are at measuring infant intake.

Methods

Data were collected from 101 paired bottle and infant/toddler TWs with 31 participants. Parents participated in the feeding sessions by completing infant/toddler TWs blinded to the researcher. Research assistants completed human milk bottle TWs. Infants were fed previously expressed human milk, initially 30 g, but volumes were increased to not exceed the scale’s capacity.

Results

The mean difference between the bottle TWs measured using the Tanita and OHAUS scales was not significantly different from zero (95% CI (Tanita – OHAUS): (-0.251, 0.108) g). The mean difference between infant/toddler and bottle TWs was significantly different from 0 (95% CI (infant—bottle): (-3.45, -0.915 g or -3.57, -0.95 mL). Infant/toddler and bottle TWs were in agreement with a difference of 2.18 g (SD = 6.63) or 2.25 mL within the scale stated accuracy.

Conclusions

The Tanita infant digital scale accurately measures bottle TWs. The differences in parent infant/toddler TWs are within a clinically acceptable range.
Intrauterine device (IUD) migration to the fallopian tube: a rare location for a translocated IUD with no visceral injury
Authors: Wangwe Peter Joseph , Awadh Najma , Angelus Magreth
Published: July 2024

Background

Loss of Intra Uterine Device (IUD) following silent perforation of the uterus either during or after IUD insertion is an uncommon finding due to a lack of immediate follow-up. We report a rare case in which uterine perforation following the migration of IUD to the right fallopian tube without visceral injury. The patient presented with lower abdominal pain and pain during sex for one year since IUD insertion. On examination, we noted tenderness on the right suprapubic region and on speculum examination, no IUD thread was seen. A radiological pelvic examination showed an empty uterus without an IUD. Laparotomy and retrieval of migrated IUD was done followed by repair of perforated uterus.

Conclusion

Migrated IUD with silent uterine perforation without visceral injury is a distressing clinical condition both to the patient and the clinician. This case is reported to increase awareness in doing immediate vaginal examination and pelvic ultrasound post-IUD insertion.
Reflections on working as and supervising trial therapists on trials of psychosocial interventions
Authors: Berry Katherine , Ellis Joanne , Pratt Daniel , Haddock Gillian
Published: July 2024

This editorial provides an overview of the challenges and benefits of working as and supervising trial therapists from the perspective of investigators and trial therapists. Key differences between trial therapy and standard care are considered, with recommendations for best practice.
Circulating Tumor DNA Assay Detects Merkel Cell Carcinoma Recurrence, Disease Progression, and Minimal Residual Disease: Surveillance and Prognostic Implications
Authors: Akaike Tomoko , Thakuria Manisha , Silk Ann W. , Hippe Daniel S. , Park Song Youn , So Naomi A. , Maloney Nolan J. , Gunnell Lindsay , Eschholz Alec , Kim Emily Y. , Sinha Sumi , Hall Evan Thomas , Bhatia Shailender , Reddy Sunil , Rodriguez Angel Augusto , Aleshin Alexey , Choi Jacob S. , Tsai Kenneth Y. , Yom Sue S. , Yu Siegrid S. , Choi Jaehyuk , Chandra Sunandana , Nghiem Paul , Zaba Lisa C.
Published: July 2024

PURPOSE

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive skin cancer with a 40% recurrence rate, lacking effective prognostic biomarkers and surveillance methods. This prospective, multicenter, observational study aimed to evaluate circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) as a biomarker for detecting MCC recurrence.

METHODS

Plasma samples, clinical data, and imaging results were collected from 319 patients. A tumor-informed ctDNA assay was used for analysis. Patients were divided into discovery (167 patients) and validation (152 patients) cohorts. Diagnostic performance, including sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV), was assessed.

RESULTS

ctDNA showed high sensitivity, 95% (discovery; 95% CI, 87 to 99) and 94% (validation; 95% CI, 85 to 98), for detecting disease at enrollment, with corresponding specificities of 90% (95% CI, 82 to 95) and 86% (95% CI, 77 to 93). A positive ctDNA during surveillance indicated increased recurrence risk, with hazard ratios (HRs) of 6.8 (discovery; 95% CI, 2.9 to 16) and 20 (validation; 95% CI, 8.3 to 50). The PPV for clinical recurrence at 1 year after a positive ctDNA test was 69% (discovery; 95% CI, 32 to 91) and 94% (validation; 95% CI, 71 to 100), respectively. The NPV at 135 days after a negative ctDNA test was 94% (discovery; 95% CI, 90 to 97) and 93% (validation; 95% CI, 89 to 97), respectively. Patients positive for ctDNA within 4 months after treatment had higher rates of recurrence, with 1-year rates of 74% versus 21% (adjusted HR, 7.4 [95% CI, 2.7 to 20]).

CONCLUSION

ctDNA testing exhibited high prognostic accuracy in detecting MCC recurrence, suggesting its potential to reduce frequent surveillance imaging. ctDNA also identifies high-risk patients who need more frequent imaging and may be best suited for adjuvant therapy trials.
Heavyweight
Authors: Saggese Jordana Moore
Published: July 2024

In Heavyweight, Jordana Moore Saggese examines images of Black heavyweight boxers to map the visual terrain of racist ideology in the United States, paying particular attention to the intersecting discourses of Blackness, masculinity, and sport. Looking closely at the “shadow archive” of portrayals across fine art, vernacular imagery, and public media at the turn of the twentieth century, shedemonstrates how the images of boxers reveal the racist stereotypes implicit in them, many of which continue to structure ideas of Black men today. With a focus on both anonymous fighters and notorious champions, including Jack Johnson, Saggese contends that popular images of these men provided white spectators a way to render themselves experts on Blackness and Black masculinity. These images became the blueprint for white conceptions of the Black male body—existing between fear and fantasy, simultaneously an object of desire and an instrument of violence. Reframing boxing as yet another way whiteness establishes the violent mythology of its supremacy, Saggese highlights the role of imagery in normalizing a culture of anti-Blackness.
Tetraspanin proteins in membrane remodeling processes
Authors: Dharan Raviv , Sorkin Raya
Published: July 2024

Membrane remodeling is a fundamental cellular process that is crucial for physiological functions such as signaling, membrane fusion and cell migration. Tetraspanins (TSPANs) are transmembrane proteins of central importance to membrane remodeling events. During these events, TSPANs are known to interact with themselves and other proteins and lipids; however, their mechanism of action in controlling membrane dynamics is not fully understood. Since these proteins span the membrane, membrane properties such as rigidity, curvature and tension can influence their behavior. In this Review, we summarize recent studies that explore the roles of TSPANs in membrane remodeling processes and highlight the unique structural features of TSPANs that mediate their interactions and localization. Further, we emphasize the influence of membrane curvature on TSPAN distribution and membrane domain formation and describe how these behaviors affect cellular functions. This Review provides a comprehensive perspective on the multifaceted function of TSPANs in membrane remodeling processes and can help readers to understand the intricate molecular mechanisms that govern cellular membrane dynamics.
Μελέτη της συσχέτισης της αλλεργικής ρινίτιδας και της αποφρακτικής υπνικής άπνοιας σε συνάρτηση και με τις διαστάσεις του στοματοφάρυγγα
Authors: Γκάμαρη Φωτεινή
Published: July 2024

Εισαγωγή: Ο επιπολασμός της αλλεργικής ρινίτιδας και της αποφρακτικής υπνικής άπνοιας παρουσιάζει αύξηση της τελευταίες δεκαετίες παγκοσμίως. Αρκετές μελέτες έχουν προτείνει τη συμμετοχή της αλλεργικής ρινίτιδας στην παθογένεση της υπνικής άπνοιας. Στόχος της παρούσας μελέτης είναι η συσχέτιση των δύο νοσολογικών οντοτήτων, η αναζήτηση επίδρασης των διαστάσεων του στοματοφάρυγγα σε αυτές, καθώς και η ανασκόπηση της σύγχρονης βιβλιογραφίας. Υλικό και μέθοδοι: Πρόκειται για μια προοπτική μελέτη κοόρτης, στην οποία συμμετείχαν 500 ασθενείς , που προσήλθαν στα τακτικά εξωτερικά ΩΡΛ ιατρεία του νοσοκομείου μας λόγω δυσχέρειας ρινικής αναπνοής. Το δείγμα κατηγοριοποιήθηκε σε δύο ομάδες, μετά από διενέργεια δοκιμασίας δια νυγμού: σε ασθενείς με αλλεργική ρινίτιδα και ασθενείς με δυσχέρεια ρινικής αναπνοής άλλης αιτιολογίας. Όλοι υπεβλήθησαν σε πλήρη ΩΡΛ εξέταση, συμπλήρωσαν αξιολογημένα ερωτηματολόγια (VAS, SNOT-22, Epworth, STOP-Bang) και υπεβλήθησαν σε πολυσωματοκαταγραφική μελέτη ύπνου για την ανάδειξη αποφρακτικής υπνικής άπνοιας.Αποτελέσματα: Το ποσοστό της αποφρακτικής υπνικής άπνοιας στους αλλεργικούς ασθενείς ήταν στη μελέτη μας 71,3%, ενώ στους μη αλλεργικούς έφτανε το 80,1%. Οι ασθενείς με αλλεργική ρινίτιδα εμφάνισαν μία τάση να έχουν μεγαλύτερη βαρύτητα άπνοιας. Στο σύνολο του δείγματος, σημαντικά υψηλότερο ήταν το ποσοστό αποφρακτικής υπνικής άπνοιας όταν η προσθιοπίσθια διάμετρος του στοματοφάρυγγα ήταν μικρότερη ή ίση από 2 εκ και σημαντικά χαμηλότερο στις περιπτώσεις αμυγδαλεκτομής. Συγκρίνοντας ωστόσο τα ποσοστά αποφρακτικής υπνικής άπνοιας, ανάλογα με την προσθιοπίσθια διάμετρο του στοματοφάρυγγα χωριστά στις δύο ομάδες, βρέθηκε σημαντική συσχέτιση μόνο στους μη αλλεργικούς. Το φύλο, η ηλικία, η απουσία αλλεργικής ρινίτιδας, το κάπνισμα και οι διαστάσεις του στοματοφάρυγγα βρέθηκαν να σχετίζονται ανεξάρτητα με την ύπαρξη άπνοιας, ενώ το φύλο και η ηλικία με το δείκτη απνοιών-υποπνοιών. Συμπεράσματα: Σε συμφωνία με τη βιβλιογραφία, δεν τεκμηριώνεται ότι η αλλεργική ρινίτιδα αποτελεί παράγοντα κινδύνου εμφάνισης αποφρακτικής υπνικής άπνοιας, ωστόσο πιθανόν να επηρεάζει τη βαρύτητα της νόσου. Οι μειωμένες διαστάσεις του στοματοφάρυγγα σχετίζονται με την ύπαρξη αποφρακτικής υπνικής άπνοιας σε μη αλλεργικούς ασθενείς, υποδεικνύοντας τη ύπαρξη και άλλων παραγόντων με αποφρακτική συνιστώσα που ενδεχομένως εμπλέκονται στην παθοφυσιολογία της υπνικής άπνοιας.
Recognition and initial management of acute aortic dissection
Authors: Kesieme Emeka B , Iruolagbe Christopher Ojemiega , Ngaage Dumbor L
Published: July 2024

Acute aortic dissection is a cardiovascular emergency that should be recognised on presentation in the Emergency Department (ED) because clinical outcome is time-dependent.

In suspected cases of acute aortic dissection, immediate imaging with chest computed tomography scan followed by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is essential to confirm diagnosis.

Immediate medical management is aimed at controlling the heart rate (60–80 beats/min), systolic blood pressure (100–120 mmHg) and pain. Patients with Type A acute aortic dissection should immediately be referred to the cardiothoracic surgeons for emergency aortic surgery while those with Type B acute aortic dissection should be referred to the vascular surgeons for surgical/endovascular interventions if indicated.
LOGÍSTICA REVERSA E ECONOMIA CIRCULAR: PRINCIPAIS MOTIVADORES
Authors: Santos Mario Roberto dos , Brito José Luiz Romero de , Shibao Fabio Ytoshi
Published: July 2024

O objetivo foi verificar na literatura a relação entre logística reversa (LR) e economia circular (EC) e responder à questão: quais são os principais motivadores para a implementação de logística reversa visando a economia circular? Para isso foram realizadas pesquisas na base de dados ScienceDirect. Foram encontrados e selecionados 59 artigos. Os artigos foram classificados quanto a abordagem da pesquisa, em nove temas: desempenho das cadeias de suprimentos; equipamentos elétricos e eletrônicos; indústria automotiva; resíduos em geral; remanufatura; barreiras e desafios; indústria da construção e outros temas. Os motivos citados para a adoção das práticas de LR visando a EC foram ambientais (21 artigos), financeiros (20), operações (7), inovação (3) e outros motivos (8). As publicações mostraram que a academia está focada em pesquisas que mostram a preocupação das organizações com o meio ambiente e também o lado de sobrevivência dessas organizações nos respectivos setores industriais.
INFLUÊNCIA DOS PRINCÍPIOS E VALORES DO COOPERATIVISMO NA RELAÇÃO ENTRE GOVERNANÇA CORPORATIVA E TRIPÉ DA SUSTENTABILIDADE
Authors: Kraus Camila Belli , Adam Camila , Cunha Paulo Roberto da , Mazzioni Sady
Published: July 2024

O objetivo foi analisar a influência dos princípios e valores do cooperativismo na relação entre a governança corporativa e o tripé da sustentabilidade de cooperativas de crédito. Aplicou-se o estudo com 41 agentes de governança de uma cooperativa de crédito e suas singulares do Sul do Brasil, empregando análise fatorial e regressão linear múltipla como análise. Os resultados indicam que quanto mais desenvolvidos os mecanismos de governança de uma cooperativa de crédito, maior tende a ser o tripé da sustentabilidade e que a aplicação dos princípios e valores do cooperativismo melhoram as práticas do pilar econômico. Ademais, as cooperativas de crédito potencializam o pilar social quando adotam boas práticas de governança corporativa e quando alinhadas com os princípios e valores do cooperativismo. Sinaliza-se às cooperativas de crédito a importância de se trabalhar o tripé da sustentabilidade, pois quando relacionado aos princípios e valores da organização, contribui com o crescimento desta.
UM MAR DE LAMA: HÁ IMPACTO NO VALOR DE MERCADO DA VALE S/A PÓS DESASTRES?
Authors: Dalcero Kátia , Rover Suliani , Ferreira Denize Demarche Minatti
Published: July 2024

Este artigo tem por objetivo verificar o impacto dos desastres do rompimento das barragens de Mariana e Brumadinho e seus desdobramentos na evidenciação e divulgação das provisões de passivos e contingências e no valor de mercado da Vale S/A. Foi realizada análise documental das demonstrações contábeis para avaliar a evolução das provisões e passivos contingentes da companhia e método de estudo de eventos para verificar o impacto dos desastres ambientais e seus desdobramentos no valor de mercado da companhia. Os resultados apontam aumento no reconhecimento das informações das provisões de passivos e passivos contingentes, principalmente após o desastre da barragem de Brumadinho. O estudo de eventos apontou que o desastre de Brumadinho e seus desdobramentos possuem impacto significativo no valor de mercado da Vale S/A e ainda que o desastre de Brumadinho apresentou impacto significativo e negativo no valor de mercado da companhia.
Inventing Exceptional Religion: U.S. Catholics and Cognitive Disability in Postwar America
Authors: Walker-Cornetta Andrew
Published: July 2024

Abstract: After the Second World War, U.S. Catholics invented what this article identifies as “exceptional religion.” This invention entailed two interrelated projects: 1) efforts to prepare people with cognitive disabilities for First Communion and 2) efforts to represent such persons as uniquely powerful spiritual beings within broader economies of the sacred. Exploring the postwar emergence of new catechetical materials aimed at so-called “exceptional children” and depictions of people with cognitive disabilities in various Catholic media, this article demonstrates the importance of these forms of difference to the making and re-making of U.S. Catholicism in a wider moment of social change. The end of the essay turns to interrogate the impacts of this invention on the lives of the persons it identified and those close to them.
Eating the Discipline
Authors: Stirner Simone
Published: July 2024

Abstract: To be nourished, fed, cared for; to provide sustenance; to have a place at the table; to be satisfied. But also: to hunger; to hoard; to scrap; to envy; to ration. These expressions can serve as metaphors for issues of nourishment and scarcity in academia, but they also become materially manifest in scenes of eating—from pizza shared in a seminar room to leftovers scraped together in take-out containers after a reception. Drawing together personal anecdotes and critical reflection, dreams and creative imaginings, this autotheoretical piece approaches the question of nourishment and scarcity in academia by looking to moments when we get together to eat or are left alone to feed ourselves. Scenes of eating, it suggests, can highlight stratifications along lines of class, race, gender, and body type, index the failures and fantasies of the neoliberal university, and create openings to imagine environments that nourish, not starve.
Native American Princess Pageants and Their Role in Maintaining Tribal Cultures
Authors: Ziyanak Sebahattin , Aicinena Steve
Published: July 2024

Abstract: This study employs qualitative fieldwork experiences to assess the role of Native American princess pageants in maintaining tribal cultures and Native American identity. We first defined and described the term “princess” and the institution that is the Native American princess pageant. After completing an extensive literature review of beauty contests, Native American culture, Native American history, and Native American pageants, we developed seven themes and seven subthemes accounting for the role of the Native American princess pageant in the maintenance of tribal cultures. We employed participant observation to collect data over 28 hours of activities related to the public 2022 Miss Indian World pageant and the Gathering of Nations powwow, which included the introduction of the pageant contestants and crowning of the 2022 Miss Indian World. We focused on performances of culture and verbal depictions of culture. Our findings aligned with the seven themes and seven subthemes derived from our literature review and supported the role of the Native American princess pageant in maintenance of tribal and pantribal cultures.
Building the NHPI Data Policy Platform to Identify the Most Pressing SDOH Policy Domains for the NHPI Community
Authors: Chang Richard Calvin , Tulua 'Alisi , Thomas Karla , Penaia Corina S. , Ponce Ninez A.
Published: July 2024

Abstract: Access to accurate Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (NHPI) social drivers of health (SDOH) data is crucial for understanding health needs and shaping effective public health strategies. However, this data often gets obscured within broader racial and ethnic categories making NHPI issues invisible. Moreover, NHPI communities face barriers when published data formats are inaccessible to community-based organization staff. To tackle these challenges, we initiated the Assessing Social Determinants of Health Data Through Local Data Intermediaries Initiative (AHEAD), supported by the federal Office of Minority Health. We developed two community-centered resources: 1. The NH PI Data Policy Platform, shaped by 138 NHPI community leaders from 13 states and Washington, D.C., representing nine NHPI subgroups. This platform highlights NHPI priority issues and provides equitable data policy recommendations for advocates and policymakers. 2. An NHP I SDOH Dashboard for California Counties, tailored to offer accessible data for community-based organization staff, ensuring better-informed interventions and support.
Promoting Health Literacy and Cultural Humility: CBOs and Wraparound Services
Authors: Allen-Meares Paula , Suarez-Balcazar Yolanda , Garcia-Bedoya Olga , Khare Manorama , Brazil Eryn A. , Ford Chloe
Published: July 2024

Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic placed demands on community-based organizations (CBOs) to address human needs to promote the health and well-being of diverse communities experiencing high rates of disparities. To enhance the capacity of CBOs in engaging with their communities, we developed webinars on health literacy and cultural humility. The concept that drove the training was wraparound services, with the objective to increase CBOs' skills and knowledge for addressing the needs of the whole person.
Public Health Youth Ambassador Program: Educating and Empowering the Next Generation of Public Health Leaders to Build Thriving Communities
Authors: Tobe Lisa , Ilyas Khudeja , Ingoglia Julie Nelson , Addo-Ayensu Gloria , Revere Christopher , Allston Adam , Getachew Mahadere , Mingo Anthony J. , Folks Scott , Scott Andrea , Velasco Ivory
Published: July 2024

Summary: Through a collaboration among Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD), Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS), Morehouse School of Medicine (MSM), George Mason University College of Public Health, federally qualified health centers, hospital systems, non-profits, and other agencies, this initiative targets underserved high school students as a way to increase diversity among community health professionals, build generational health, and provide participants with tools to enhance their post-secondary educational and career opportunities.
Bioethics as a Dynamic Issue: Holistic Approaches to Understanding and Applying Ethics to Study Design
Authors: Winful Taiye
Published: July 2024

abstract: Anthropologists have challenged bioethicists to incorporate more holistic approaches to applying ethics in real-world situations. Where bioethicists tend to use systematic philosophical approaches to moral dilemmas, anthropologists apply malleable approaches designed to be responsive to variable cultural contexts. For example, in decision making anthropologists emphasize the importance of community and the effects of social issues, political economy, and cultural tradition. This difference in approaches contributes to the contentious relationship between anthropologists and bioethicists. Despite nuanced perspectives, anthropologists have not enjoyed a durable role in shaping contemporary bioethics. This lack of nuance becomes problematic when researchers attempt to reconcile ethical issues against a rigid standard of morality, rather than what Patricia Marshall defines as a “culturally constituted and continually evolving” process. Reflecting on the institutional review board (IRB) review of the author’s work with African descendants in the United States and Nigeria, this discussion covers the importance of conceptualizing bioethics as a dynamic issue, especially when working with communities abroad. Comparing these review processes reveals the organizational structures, influenced by culture and society, that impact decision making in respective communities. This contribution to the special issue suggests that a focus on how IRB reviews are done can also offer insights and contextualization into community decision making. Within a cross-cultural setting, considerations of the IRB review processes can lead to more informed conversations on bioethics and can aid researchers in applying more holistic approaches to study design.