bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The important role of NLRP6 inflammasome in Pasteurella multocida infection
Authors: Wu Xingping , Zeng Zheng , Tian Hongliang , Peng Lianci , Xu Dongyi , Wang Yu , Ye Chao , Peng Yuanyi , Fang Rendong
Published: October 2022

Pasteurella multocida (P. multocida) can cause severe respiratory disease in cattle, resulting in high mortality and morbidity. Inflammasomes are multiprotein complexes in the cytoplasm that recognize pathogens and play an important role in the host defense against microbial infection. In this study, the mechanism of P. multocida-induced NLRP6 inflammasome activation was investigated in vitro and in vivo. Firstly, P. multocida induced severe inflammation with a large number of inflammatory cells infiltrating the lungs of WT and Nlrp6−/− mice. Nlrp6−/− mice were more susceptible to P. multocida infection and they had more bacterial burden in the lungs. Then, the recruitment of macrophages and neutrophils in the lungs was investigated and the results show that the number of immune cells was significantly decreased in Nlrp6−/− mice. Subsequently, NLRP6 was shown to regulate P. multocida-induced inflammatory cytokine secretion including IL-1β and IL-6 both in vivo and in vitro while TNF-α secretion was not altered. Moreover, NLRP6 was found to mediate caspase-1 activation and ASC oligomerization, resulting in IL-1β secretion. Furthermore, NLRP6 inflammasome mediated the gene expression of chemokines including CXCL1, CXCL2 and CXCR2 which drive the activation of NLRP3 inflammasomes. Finally, NLRP3 protein expression was detected to be abrogated in P. multocida-infected Nlrp6−/− macrophages, indicating the synergic effect of NLRP6 and NLRP3. Our study demonstrates that NLRP6 inflammasome plays an important role in the host against P. multocida infection and contributes to the development of immune therapeutics against P. multocida.
RNA binding protein HuR protects against NAFLD by suppressing long noncoding RNA H19 expression
Authors: Wang Yanyan , Tai Yun-Ling , Way Grayson , Zeng Jing , Zhao Derrick , Su Lianyong , Jiang Xixian , Jackson Kaitlyn G. , Wang Xuan , Gurley Emily C. , Liu Jinze , Liu Jinpeng , Chen Weidong , Wang Xiang-Yang , Sanyal Arun J. , Hylemon Phillip B. , Zhou Huiping
Published: October 2022

Background

NAFLD has become the most common chronic liver disease worldwide. Human antigen R (HuR), an RNA-binding protein, is an important post-transcriptional regulator. HuR has been reported as a key player in regulating lipid homeostasis in the liver and adipose tissues by using tissue-specific HuR knockout mice. However, the underlying mechanism by which hepatocyte-specific HuR regulates hepatic lipid metabolism under metabolic stress remains unclear and is the focus of this study.

Methods

Hepatocyte-specific HuR deficient mice (HuRhKO) and age-/gender-matched control mice, as well as long-noncoding RNA H19 knockout mice (H19−/−), were fed a Western Diet plus sugar water (WDSW). Hepatic lipid accumulation, inflammation and fibrosis were examined by histology, RNA transcriptome analysis, qRT–PCR, and Western blot analysis. Bile acid composition was measured using LC–MS/MS.

Results

Hepatocyte-specific deletion of HuR not only significantly increased hepatic lipid accumulation by modulating fatty acid synthesis and metabolism but also markedly induced inflammation by increasing immune cell infiltration and neutrophil activation under metabolic stress. In addition, hepatic deficiency of HuR disrupted bile acid homeostasis and enhanced liver fibrosis. Mechanistically, HuR is a repressor of H19 expression. Analysis of a recently published dataset (GSE143358) identified H19 as the top-upregulated gene in liver-specific HuR knockout mice. Similarly, hepatocyte-specific deficiency of HuR dramatically induced the expression of H19 and sphingosine-1 phosphate receptor 2 (S1PR2), but reduced the expression of sphingosine kinase 2 (SphK2). WDSW-induced hepatic lipid accumulation was alleviated in H19−/− mice. Furthermore, the downregulation of H19 alleviated WDSW-induced NAFLD in HuRhKO mice.

Conclusions

HuR not only functions as an RNA binding protein to modulate post-transcriptional gene expression but also regulates H19 promoter activity. Hepatic HuR is an important regulator of hepatic lipid metabolism via modulating H19 expression.
Surface fungal diversity and several mycotoxin-related genes’ expression profiles during the Lunar Palace 365 experiment
Authors: Yang Jianlou , Hao Zikai , Zhang Lantao , Fu Yuming , Liu Hong
Published: October 2022

Background

Chinese Lunar Palace 1 (LP1) is a ground-based bio-regenerative life support system (BLSS) test bed integrating highly efficient plant cultivation, animal protein production, urine nitrogen recycling, and bioconversion of solid waste. To date, there has been no molecular method-based detailed investigation of the fungal community and mycotoxin potential in BLSS habitats. To ensure safe BLSS design for actual space missions, we analyzed the LP1 surface mycobiome and mycotoxin potential during the Lunar Palace 365 project through internal transcribed spacer region 1 (ITS1) amplicon sequencing and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) with primers specific foridh,ver1,nor1,tri5, andITS1.

Results

The LP1 system exhibited significant differences in fungal community diversity compared to other confined habitats, with higher fungal alpha diversity and different community structures. Significant differences existed in the surface fungal communities of the LP1 habitat due to the presence of different occupant groups. However, there was no significant difference between fungal communities in the plant cabin with various occupants. Source tracker analysis shows that most of the surface fungi in LP1 originated from plants. Regardless of differences in occupants or location, there were no significant differences in mycotoxin gene copy number.

Conclusions

Our study reveals that plants are the most crucial source of the surface fungal microbiome; however, occupant turnover can induce significant perturbations in the surface fungal community in a BLSS. Growing plants reduced fungal fluctuations, maintaining a healthy balance in the surface fungal microbiome and mycotoxin potential. Moreover, our study provides data important to (i) future risk considerations in crewed space missions with long-term residency, (ii) an optimized design and planning of a space mission that incorporates crew shifts and plant growth, and (iii) the expansion of our knowledge of indoor fungal communities with plant growth, which is essential to maintain safe working and living environments.
Metaverse through the prism of power and addiction: what will happen when the virtual world becomes more attractive than reality?
Authors: Bojic Ljubisa
Published: October 2022

New technologies are emerging at a fast pace without being properly analyzed in terms of their social impact or adequately regulated by societies. One of the biggest potentially disruptive technologies for the future is the metaverse, or the new Internet, which is being developed by leading tech companies. The idea is to create a virtual reality universe that would allow people to meet, socialize, work, play, entertain, and create.

Methods coming from future studies are used to analyze expectations and narrative building around the metaverse. Additionally, it is examined how metaverse could shape the future relations of power and levels of media addiction in the society.

Hype and disappointment dynamics created after the video presentation of meta’s CEO Mark Zuckerberg have been found to affect the present, especially in terms of certainty and designability. This idea is supported by a variety of data, including search engine n-grams, trends in the diffusion of NFT technology, indications of investment interest, stock value statistics, and so on. It has been found that discourse in the mentioned presentation of the metaverse contains elements of optimism, epochalism, and inventibility, which corresponds to the concept of future essentialism.

On the other hand, power relations in society, inquired through the prism of classical theorists, indicate that current trends in the concentration of power among Big Tech could expand even more if the metaverse becomes mainstream. Technology deployed by the metaverse may create an attractive environment that would mimic direct reality and further stimulate media addiction in society.

It is proposed that future inquiries examine how virtual reality affects the psychology of individuals and groups, their creative capacity, and imagination. Also, virtual identity as a human right and recommender systems as a public good need to be considered in future theoretical and empirical endeavors.
Southern Carpathian ultramafic grasslands within the central-southeast European context: syntaxonomic classification and overall eco-coenotic patterns
Authors: Coldea Gheorghe , Gafta Dan , Negrean Gavril , Stoica Adrian Ilie , Hurdu Bogdan-Iuliu
Published: October 2022

Background

Previous investigations carried out in ultramafic habitats emphasized the greater importance of site conditions over soil toxic metal content for vegetation composition. Very little is known about the floristic structure of the Southern Carpathian ultramafic grasslands and there is no information on the local environmental drivers of their composition and coenotic features. Here, we aim to fill these knowledge gaps by referring to similar phytocoenoses described in the Balkan Peninsula and central Europe. In particular, we searched for: (i) floristic and ecological patterns supporting the classification and taxonomic assignment of these grasslands, and (ii) simple relationships between serpentine vegetation characteristics and its physiographic environment. A total of 120 phytosociological relevés, of which 52 performed in the Southern Carpathians, were analysed through cluster, ordination and regression procedures.

Results

Despite some floristic similarities with their Balkan counterparts, the Southern Carpathian ultramafic grasslands were clustered into four distinct groups, which were assigned to as many new syntaxa: Plantago serpentinae–Armerietum halleri, Asplenio serpentini–Achnatheretum calamagrostis, Minuartio frutescentis–Plantaginetum holostei and Sileno saxifragae–Plantaginetum holostei. The latter was best individualised through the occurrence of several Carpathian endemic taxa. The first two ordination axes were significantly related with the terrain slope/presence of xerophilous species and respectively, with site elevation/presence of calcifugous species. The total plant cover showed a unimodal relationship with respect to site elevation. While controlling for the effect of the sampled area, species richness showed a unimodal response to both elevation and slope of the terrain, although their effects were not singular.

Conclusions

The syntaxonomic distinctiveness of the Southern Carpathian ultramafic grasslands is mainly supported by their overall species composition rather than regional differential species. The main limiting factors driving the composition, cover and species richness of all studied ultramafic grasslands are the water deficit at low elevation and on steep slopes, and the low soil fertility at higher elevations. Our results confirm the previous findings according to which physiographic conditions and, to a lesser extent, soil base nutrients are more important than heavy metal concentrations in structuring the ultramafic vegetation.
Adherence to metformin in adults with type 2 diabetes: a combined method approach
Authors: Syafhan Nadia Farhanah , Donnelly Rosemary , Harper Roy , Harding Janet , Mulligan Ciara , Hogg Anita , Scott Michael , Fleming Glenda , Scullin Claire , Hawwa Ahmed F. , Chen Gaoyun , Parsons Carole , McElnay James C.
Published: October 2022

Background

Medication adherence, one of the most important aspects in the process of optimal medicines use, is unfortunately still a major challenge in modern healthcare, and further research is required into how adherence can be assessed and optimised. The aim of this study was to use a combined method approach of self-report and dried blood spot (DBS) sampling coupled with population pharmacokinetic (PopPK) modelling, to assess adherence to metformin in adult patients with type 2 diabetes. Further aims were to assess metformin exposure levels in patients, determine factors associated with non-adherence with prescribed metformin, and to explore the relationship between adherence and therapeutic outcomes.

Methods

A combined method approach was used to evaluate metformin adherence in patients with type 2 diabetes who had been prescribed metformin for a minimum period of 6 months. Patients were recruited from consultant-led diabetic outpatient clinics at three hospitals in Northern Ireland, UK. Data collection involved self-reported questionnaires [Medication Adherence Report Scale (MARS), Beliefs about Medicines Questionnaire and Centre for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale], direct measurement of metformin concentration in DBS samples, and researcher-led patient interviews. The DBS sampling approach was coupled with population pharmacokinetic (PopPK) modelling, which took account of patient characteristics, metformin dosage and type of formulation prescribed (immediate or sustained release).

Results

The proportion of patients considered to be adherent to their prescribed metformin, derived from self-reported MARS scores and metformin concentration in DBS samples, was 61.2% (74 out of 121 patients). The majority (n = 103, 85.1%) of recruited patients had metformin exposure levels that fell within the therapeutic range. However, 17 patients (14.1%) had low exposure to metformin and one patient (0.8%) had undetectable metformin level in their blood sample (non-exposure). Metformin self-administration and use of a purchased adherence pill box significantly increased the probability of a patient being classified as adherent based on logistic regression analysis. Both HbA1c and random glucose levels (representing poor glycaemic control) in the present research were, however, not statistically linked to non-adherence to metformin (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

A significant proportion of participating patients were not fully adherent with their therapy. DBS sampling together with the use of a published PopPK model was a useful, novel, direct, objective approach to estimate levels of adherence in adult patients with type 2 diabetes (61.2%).
An exploratory study of STEM teachers’ mentorship networks
Authors: Alemdar Meltem , Cappelli Christopher J. , Gale Jessica , Boice Katherine L.
Published: October 2022

Background

The Noyce Scholarship Program was created to attract and retain science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) teachers in high-need schools. Teacher support networks, and specifically mentorship support, have been linked to increased retention of high-quality teachers in the classroom. Using a sample of Noyce teachers, we used a multilevel model to explore how the characteristics and composition of novice teachers’ support networks are related to the likelihood that they receive mentorship support, and further, how characteristics common among Noyce programs are related to mentorship support.

Results

Findings suggest that the characteristics and composition of a teacher’s network, as well as certain Noyce program characteristics, contribute to the likelihood that teachers receive mentorship support from their larger support network.

Implications

The results of this study highlight the importance of considering how the design of teacher preparation programs may contribute to continued mentorship support for early career teachers, and ultimately, their retention in the classroom.
Evaluation of cloud and precipitation processes in regional and global models with ULTIMATE (ULTra-sIte for Measuring Atmosphere of Tokyo metropolitan Environment): a case study using the dual-polarization Doppler weather radars
Authors: Satoh Masaki , Matsugishi Shuhei , Roh Woosub , Ikuta Yasutaka , Kuba Naomi , Seiki Tatsuya , Hashino Tempei , Okamoto Hajime
Published: October 2022

We describe a collaborative analysis study involving numerical models and observation data for the Tokyo metropolitan area called the ULTra-sIte for Measuring Atmosphere of Tokyo Metropolitan Environment (ULTIMATE) project. It evaluates cloud microphysics schemes of numerical models using extensive observation data for the Tokyo area. We have access to various remote sensing and in situ data for the Tokyo area for operational and research purposes, particularly by enhancing observations for ground validation of the EarthCARE satellite, which is set to launch in 2023. This study focuses on using the dual-polarization Doppler weather radar, operated by the Japan Meteorological Agency. In terms of numerical models, we use and compare multi-models with single-moment (SM) and double-moment (DM) cloud microphysics schemes; the global non-hydrostatic model, Non-hydrostatic ICosahedral Atmospheric Model (NICAM) and the two regional models with A System based on a Unified Concept for Atmosphere (ASUCA) and Scalable Computing for Advanced Library and Environment (SCALE) are used. In particular, because NICAM can be used as both a global and a regional model, we can immediately test the improved scheme on a global scale for its effect on climatology and the evaluation of climate sensitivity. This paper introduces the methodology for evaluating numerical models by the dual-polarization radar using the observation simulator and compares numerical model results with observations. In particular, we evaluate the simulated rain in the lower level near the ground and the large ice particles just above the melting level. The simulation with NICAM-DM reproduces the comparable polarimetric radar characteristics of rain as the observation. However, the simulations with NICAM-SM and ASUCA-SM show larger raindrop sizes in stronger rain areas compared to the observation. For the larger ice particles just above the melting level around 4 km, NICAM-DM and ASUCA-SM overestimate particle sizes of graupel or snow, while NICAM-SM has a similar size of the ice particles. In future studies, we will use the present results to improve the cloud microphysics scheme, which will be tested on a global model.
Dietary patterns and childhood stunting in Zimbabwe
Authors: Marume Anesu , Archary Moherndran , Mahomed Saajida
Published: October 2022

Background

Diet is one important predictor of children’s growth, and often dietary interventions can assist with reversing adverse nutrition outcomes. Traditionally research has focused on individual food items or food classes to generate an understanding of disease risk. Dietary patterns provide a holistic approach to understanding the relationship between exposure and outcome.

Method

A matched case-control study was conducted. Caregivers of 450 children (225 cases, 225 controls) aged 6–59 months were asked to describe the diet their children had consumed in the previous 7 days using a Food Frequency Questionnaire. Dietary patterns were developed using factor analysis and regression analysis was conducted to assess which dietary pattern was associated with childhood stunting.

Results

Three dietary patterns were identified: modern (n = 181), low animal-source (n = 158), and traditional (n = 111). Children with the low animal source dietary pattern had increased odds of being stunted (AOR 1.03, p < 0.05). Three demographic factors (Child’s age, father’s age and having a sibling < 24 months apart) were identified as significant predictors of consumption of any of the traditional and low animal source diet (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Nutrition intervention such as health education, counselling and supplementary feeding should include a holistic approach to dietary education not only focusing on promoting a balanced diet but improvement strengthening the upgrading of child’s dietary pattern taking into cognisant both quantity, and quality of nutrients provided to the child.
The majority oppressed? On asymmetrical multiculturalism and majority rights
Authors: de Waal Tamar , Duyvendak Jan Willem
Published: October 2022

There has been an increase of academic publications that argue in favor of ‘majority rights,’ ‘majority precedence,’ or ‘white identity,’ claiming that the (cultural) interests of majorities in liberal-democratic countries have been ignored due to ‘asymmetrical multiculturalism.’ This article critically examines this academic trend. In particular, we question the claim that liberal-democratic and multicultural theories to date have ignored the importance of the majority (culture). We observe that liberal-democratic and multicultural theory in fact strongly promote and privilege the majority culture, although in ways that do not violate core individual rights and accommodate minorities. In addition, we explore several more empirical issues regarding the claim that the interests of majorities are under threat in liberal-democratic countries today. Among other things, we observe that pro-majority theories tend to work with specific understandings of who embodies the majority. These theories rest on the idea that immigrants and their descendants (may) ‘dilute’ majorities, as they are (culturally) ‘not native.’ As a result, majority rights theorists ‘freeze’ the majority culture claimed to be worth protecting in ways that it, first, neglects ongoing processes of integration and, second, disregards possibilities for social and political change and emancipation, particularly if triggered by immigrant groups. Finally, we wonder why majority rights theories currently seem to resonate. We discuss the possibility that certain pro-diversity voices, such as those who claim that Europe has become superdiverse or who defend multiculturalism, might have (unintentionally) enabled alarmist defenses of majority rights.
Anesthetic management using high-flow nasal cannula therapy during cardiac catheter examination of a neonate with hypoplastic left heart syndrome
Authors: Ito Yoshiaki , Yamashita Tomonori , Tachibana Kazuya
Published: October 2022

Background

Sedation during cardiac catheter examination in neonates with complex congenital heart disease is challenging, as even the slightest change in the circulatory or respiratory status can lead to hemodynamic collapse. Here, we report a case wherein we achieved adequate sedation with a high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) for catheter examination in a neonate with a congenital cardiac anomaly.

Case presentation

An 11-day-old boy with hypoplastic left heart syndrome was scheduled for a cardiac catheter examination prior to the Norwood procedure. He underwent bilateral pulmonary artery banding (PAB) on day 1 and was receiving dobutamine, milrinone, alprostadil, and dexmedetomidine in addition to air and nitrogen insufflation via HFNC, which was applied following extubation on day 3 and nitrogen therapy on day 6 owing to persistent pulmonary overcirculation symptoms (tachypnea and low arterial blood pressure) despite bilateral PAB. A catheter examination was performed on day 11 with careful monitoring of expired carbon dioxide and observation of chest wall motion. Adequate sedation was provided with supplemental midazolam and fentanyl along with HFNC without tracheal intubation.

Conclusions

The findings from this case suggest that HFNC is a safe and effective tool for oxygenation during cardiac catheter examination under sedation in neonates.
Italian grandparenthood within the European context: an introduction
Authors: Glaser Karen F. , Albertini Marco , Arpino Bruno , Tomassini Cecilia
Published: October 2022

This thematic collection seeks to reflect and push forward the current state of the art in the study of grandparenthood and grandparenting in Italy in a comparative European perspective. Starting from the demography of grandparenthood, intergenerational transfers, contacts and living proximity between grandparents, parents and children and the characteristics of such exchanges are analysed. Furthermore, the consequences of grandparenting and especially of grandchild care provision in terms of fertility behaviour and work participation and well-being are investigated. The research articles aim to shed light on the complexity of factors which shape the effects of grandparents’ availability and the behaviour and well-being of each of the three generations involved.
Verifying unfamiliar identities: Effects of processing name and face information in the same identity-matching task
Authors: Trinh Anita , Dunn James D. , White David
Published: October 2022

Matching the identity of unfamiliar faces is important in applied identity verification tasks, for example when verifying photo ID at border crossings, in secure access areas, or when issuing identity credentials. In these settings, other biographical details—such as name or date of birth on an identity document—are also often compared to existing records, but the impact of these concurrent checks on decisions has not been examined. Here, we asked participants to sequentially compare name, then face information between an ID card and digital records to detect errors. Across four experiments (combined n = 274), despite being told that mismatches between written name pairs and face image pairs were independent, participants were more likely to say that face images matched when names also matched. Across all experiments, we found that this bias was unaffected by the image quality, suggesting that the source of the bias is somewhat independent of perceptual processes. In a final experiment, we show that this decisional bias was found only for name checks, but not when participants were asked to check ID card expiration dates or unrelated object names. We conclude that the bias arises from processing identity information and propose that it operates at the level of unfamiliar person identity representations. Results are interpreted in the context of theoretical models of face processing, and we discuss applied implications.
Association between VTE and antibiotic prophylaxis guideline compliance and patient-reported outcomes after total hip and knee arthroplasty: an observational study
Authors: Badge Helen , Churches Tim , Naylor Justine M. , Xuan Wei , Armstrong Elizabeth , Gray Leeanne , Fletcher John , Gosbell Iain , Christine Lin Chung-Wei , Harris Ian A.
Published: October 2022

Background

Surgical site infection (SSI) and venous thromboembolism (VTE) are associated with high burden and cost and are considered largely preventable following total knee or hip arthroplasty (TKA, THA). The risk of developing VTE and SSI is reduced when prophylaxis is compliant with evidence-based clinical guidelines. However, the association between VTE and antibiotic prophylaxis clinical guideline compliance and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) after THA/TKA is unknown. This study aims to explore whether care that is non-compliant with VTE and antibiotic guideline recommendations is associated with PROMs (Oxford Hip/Knee Score and EQ-5D Index scores) at 90- and 365-days after surgery.

Methods

This prospective observational study included high-volume arthroplasty public and private sites and consenting eligible participants undergoing elective primary THA/TKA. We conducted multiple linear regression and linear mixed-effects modelling to explore the associations between non-compliance with VTE and antibiotic guidelines, and PROMs.

Results

The sample included 1838 participants. Compliance with VTE and antibiotic guidelines was 35% and 13.2% respectively. In adjusted modelling, non-compliance with VTE guidelines was not associated with 90-day Oxford score (β = − 0.54, standard error [SE] = 0.34, p = 0.112) but was significantly associated with lower (worse) 365-day Oxford score (β = − 0.76, SE = 0.29, p = 0.009), lower EQ-5D Index scores at 90- (β = − 0.02 SE = 0.008, p = 0.011) and 365-days (β = − 0.03, SE = 0.008, p = 0.002).. The changes in Oxford and EQ-5D Index scores were not clinically important. Noncompliance with antibiotic guidelines was not associated with either PROM at 90- (Oxford: β = − 0.45, standard error [SE] = 0.47, p = 0.341; EQ-5D: β = − 0.001, SE = 0.011, p = 0.891) or 365-days (Oxford score: β = − 0.06, SE = 0.41, p = 0.880 EQ-5D: β = − 0.010, SE = 0.012, p = 0.383). Results were consistent when complications were included in the model and in linear mixed-effects modelling with the insurance sector as a random effect.

Conclusions

Non-compliance with VTE prophylaxis guidelines, but not antibiotic guidelines, is associated with statistically significant but not clinically meaningful differences in Oxford scores and EQ-5D Index scores at 365 days.
Variations induced by body weight and background lesion normalization in standardized uptake value estimated by F18-FDG PET/CT
Authors: Badawe Eman M. , Abdel Gawad Hesham , El-Nagdy Mohamed S. , Khalil Magdy M.
Published: October 2022

Aim

This work aims to study the impact of different SUV variants in terms of mean and maximum measures as well as various normalization methods with respect to body weight, body mass index, body surface area, and lean body mass in patients with lymphoma.

Methods

Sixty-nine patients (34 male–35 female) were retrospectively selected. All patients had undergone F18-FDG PET/CT using the standard imaging protocol. In the first part of this study, SUVmean and SUVmax of patients’ lesions and three background sites including liver, aorta, and muscle were determined. Then, the normalization of lesion SUV to body weight and body background sites was performed. The ratio of lesion SUVmax to body background sites (muscle, aorta, and liver) SUVmax was determined in addition to the ratio of lesion SUVmean to body background sites SUVmean. The second part of the study included the calculations of the body mass index (BMI), body surface area (BSA), and lean body mass (LBM). The normalization of lesion, liver, aorta, and muscle SUV to BMI, BSA, and LBM was calculated and compared to each other.

Results

After performing the appropriate statistical calculations, the results showed that there is a significant difference in SUV measurements between the three background sites. Lesions normalized to the liver were significantly lower than those normalized to aorta and muscle and the results also showed a higher magnitude of lesions normalized to muscle in comparison to the aorta. The SUVmax and SUVmean normalized to different body weight indices showed the lowest variation with BSA and BMI while being increasingly higher with lean body mass using the two methods James and Janmahasatian, respectively, and then highest with body weight.

Conclusion

The SUVmax and SUVmean showed lower variance in comparison to other background regions. Less variation was also remarkable in SUVmean normalized to BSA and Janma lean mass and also when SUVmax is normalized to James lean body mass. The SUVmax normalized to lean (i.e., James) as well as SUVmean normalized to lean (i.e., Janma) and BSA showed a significant independence with body weight.
A terrifying problem: healthcare professionals’ homicides
Authors: Aydogan Halit Canberk , Yıldırım Mahmut Şerif , Soyyiğit Muhammet , Akçan Ramazan
Published: October 2022

Background

As in all over the world, healthcare professionals in Turkey are increasingly affected by violence. The purpose of this study was to evaluate homicide, which is the most severe form of violence against health care professionals.

Methods

Information regarding characteristics of the incidents, victims, and perpetrators were gathered from the media reports subjecting murders of healthcare professionals between 2000 and 2019 were compiled and discussed with descriptive statistics.

Results

There were 60 homicides involving health professionals (35 male, 25 female) between 2000 and 2019. Homicides of health professionals were found to have increased significantly between 2015 and 2019. The most common crime scene was the victim’s workplace, whereas the most common method of homicide was the use of firearms. In female healthcare professional homicides, the murderer was a former or existing partner in most cases.

Conclusions

The assessment of cultural factors, and the performance of various studies to prevent homicide of health professionals is crucial. Policies against individual weaponry and the prevention of armed persons entering healthcare facilities could be useful. In addition, regulations prohibiting targeting health professionals as a scapegoat for system failures will help address this problem.
Oral acute toxicity study on stem bark extracts of Bombax costatum Pellegr. and Vuillet on wistar albino rats
Authors: Bello Abubakar M. , Malgwi Ibrahim S. , Adegoke Salami H. , Abubakar Abdulwasi’u , Ibrahim Bilal M. , Chiroma Samaila M.
Published: October 2022

Background

Acute toxicity (LD50) test provides an indication on the range of doses of a substance that could be toxic to the body systems. This study was aimed at determining the LD50 of different extracts of Bombax costatum stem bark and its effects on the histology of liver and kidneys in rats.

Results

Phytochemical screening of n-hexane, ethanol and chloroform extracts of B. costatum stem bark has revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoid, saponins, steroid, terpenes, anthraquinones and cardiac glycosides. No mortality was recorded after testing all the different extracts on rats. However, mild body weaknesses and pilo erection were observed in the first hour of extracts’ administration. No statistically significant differences was observed in most of the serum levels of kidney function biomarkers, although a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in bicarbonate and increase (p < 0.05) in urea, respectively, were observed in chloroform extract treated group when compared to control. Further, no marked differences (p > 0.05) were observed in hematological parameters as well as in the liver functions biomarkers in all the 3 extract exposed groups when compared to the control, except significant decrease (p < 0.05) of total bilirubin level in chloroform extract exposed rats. Finally, histological sections of the liver and kidneys showed no aberrations.

Conclusions

Since no mortality and serious clinical manifestation were recorded, it is suggestive that oral acute administration of n-hexane, chloroform and ethanol extracts of B. costatum is greater than 5000 mg/kg. Hence, the plant has high safety margin and can be used within the dose of 5000 mg/kg body weight.
Mineral profile, carbohydrates fractionation, nitrogen compounds and in vitro gas production of elephant grass silages associated with cactus pear
Authors: de Sousa Cunha Diego , da Conceição da Silva Rodrigues Jessica Maria , de Jesus Pinheiro Costa Claudenilde , da Silva Lima Raquel , de Almeida Araújo Cleyton , de Oliveira Getúlio Figueiredo , Campos Fleming Sena , Magalhães André Luiz Rodrigues , de Araújo Gherman Garcia Leal , Gois Glayciane Costa
Published: October 2022

Background

The high amount of soluble carbohydrates and the reduced dry matter content in cactus pear can cause excessive fermentation, resulting in nutrient losses, when it is preserved in the silage form. Thus, the association of cactus pear with elephant grass in the production of mixed silages may reduce nutritional losses during the ensiling process. Thus, the aim was to evaluate the mineral profile, carbohydrates fractionation, nitrogen compounds, and in vitro gas production of elephant grass silages associated with a cactus pear levels (0, 150, 300, and 450 g/kg on dry matter basis). The study was carried out in a completely randomized design, with 4 treatments and 5 replications, totaling 20 experimental silos.

Results

The increase in cactus pear levels in elephant grass silages composition provided an increase in the contents of K (P = 0.013), Ca (P < 0.001), Mg (P < 0.001), Na (P = 0.001), B (P = 0.044) and Zn (P = 0.016), reduced P (P = 0.039) and promoted a quadratic effect for Fe (P = 0.045) content. The addition of cactus pear levels in elephant grass silages increased the total carbohydrates (P < 0.001) and A + B1 fraction (P = 0.002) and promoted a quadratic effect for B2 fraction (P = 0.032). For nitrogen compounds, the increase in cactus pear levels in elephant grass silages composition reduced the B1 + B2 fraction (P = 0.002) and increased the C fraction (P = 0.007). There was no effect of cactus pear levels on the in vitro gas production of elephant grass silages (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Under the experimental conditions, the addition of cactus pear in elephant grass silage at levels up to 450 g/kg dry matter does not affect the in vitro gas production, however, it improves the mineral profile, contributes to the increase in the total carbohydrate content and the A + B1 fraction in the silages. Besides this, cactus pear addition reduces the B1 + B2 protein fraction, increasing the fraction C content in the silages, suggesting the necessity to supply an additional soluble nitrogen source for good ruminal functioning.
Etiology and presenting features of vocal cord paralysis: changing trends over the last two decades
Authors: Bhatta Subash , Gandhi Sachin , Ghanpur Asheesh Dora , Ganesuni Dushyanth
Published: October 2022

Background

The study was performed to evaluate the changing trends in etiology and presenting features of vocal cord paralysis (VCP) from March 1998 to March 2020.

Methods

Patient’s record collected from hospital database and divided into two groups, from March 1998 to March 2009 and from April 2009 to March 2020, to evaluate the changing trends in etiology and presenting features.

Results

Total of 711 VCP patients, 80.3% with unilateral (UVCP) and 19.7% with bilateral vocal cord paralysis (BVCP) included. The commonest etiology was non-surgical (57.1%) for UVCP and surgical (55.7%) for BVCP. The commonest surgical etiology was thyroid and parathyroid surgery for both UVCP (16.6%) and BVCP (38.5%). The commonest non-surgical etiology was idiopathic for UVCP (23.1%) and malignancies for BVCP (13.6%). There was increase in surgical etiology for both UVCP (39.3 to 45.3%) and BVCP (51.2 to 57.7%), and decrease in non-surgical etiology for both UVCP (60.7 to 54.6%) and BVCP (48.8 to 42.3%). The change in voice was most common presenting features for both UVCP (69.2%) and BVCP (92.8%). The frequency of the presenting features was comparable, with decrease in the duration of symptom onset over the time period.

Conclusion

The most common etiology for UVCP was idiopathic, and for BVCP was thyroid and parathyroid surgery. For both, UVCP and BVCP there was increasing trend for surgical and decreasing trend for non-surgical etiology. The change in voice was the most common presenting complain, with decrease in duration of symptom onset over time period.
The Cup Runneth Over: Treatment Strategies for Newly Diagnosed Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Cooperrider Jennifer H. , Shukla Navika , Nawas Mariam T. , Patel Anand Ashwin
Published: October 2022

Since 2017, the number of agents for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has rapidly expanded. Given the increased therapeutic options, better identification of high-risk subsets of AML and more refined approaches to patient fitness assessment, the decisions surrounding selection of intensive chemotherapy versus lower-intensity treatment have grown increasingly more nuanced. In this review, we present available data for both standard and investigational approaches in the initial treatment of AML using an intensive chemotherapy backbone or a lower-intensity approach. We summarize management strategies in newly diagnosed secondary AML, considerations around allogeneic stem-cell transplantation, and the role of maintenance therapy. Finally, we highlight important areas of future investigation and novel agents that may hold promise in combination with standard therapies.
Diagnosis and Medical Management of Parkinson Disease
Authors: Thaler Avner , Alcalay Roy N.
Published: October 2022

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Parkinson disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative movement disorder, the prevalence of which is rising as the world population ages. It may present with motor and nonmotor symptoms, and symptomatic treatment significantly improves quality of life. This article provides an overview of the workup and differential diagnosis for PD and reviews genetic and environmental risk factors and current treatments.

RECENT FINDINGS

Novel treatments for the motor (eg, fluctuations and off times) and nonmotor (eg, hallucinations and orthostatic hypotension) complications of PD have been approved in recent years. In addition, with recent advances in our understanding of the genetics of PD, significant research is focusing on identifying at-risk populations and introducing genetically targeted interventions (precision medicine).

PD is a heterogeneous neurodegenerative movement disorder. Affected individuals may receive substantial symptomatic relief from nonpharmacologic, pharmacologic, and surgical interventions. Although no intervention to modify the progression of PD is currently available, precision medicine and modulation of the immune system are a major focus of ongoing research.
Surgical Therapies for Parkinson Disease
Authors: Rawls Ashley E.
Published: October 2022

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Parkinson disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that is often difficult to manage with medications alone. This article reviews the current therapeutic surgical interventions for PD, patient selection criteria, timing of patient referral to surgical services, procedure overview, and future directions.

RECENT FINDINGS

Adaptive, or closed-loop, deep brain stimulation is a promising therapy that can detect ongoing circuit changes and deliver appropriate stimulation based on the patient’s dominant symptom and level of dopaminergic medication.

Patients with PD can benefit from surgical interventions that can be added to their medication regimen. These patients should be referred to comprehensive centers that offer complete multidisciplinary screening evaluation to ensure appropriate patient selection and intervention selection. With the appropriate surgical intervention and continued management from their care team, patients with PD can maximize their quality of life.
Diagnosing Common Movement Disorders in Children
Authors: O’Malley Jennifer A.
Published: October 2022

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article is designed to help the clinician identify the most common pediatric movement disorders and recognize benign versus pathologic movements in infancy and childhood, with a particular focus on treatable conditions and those that should not be missed.

RECENT FINDINGS

As telehealth has become more prevalent as a means of providing health care services, the challenges of obtaining relevant examination findings during telehealth encounters for assessment of children with movement disorders have become evident.

Although many children who present with a chief complaint of “abnormal movements” are found to have a benign, self-resolving etiology, it is critical that neurologists accurately recognize benign versus pathologic movements in children to ensure appropriate diagnosis and intervention.
Lolita in Humbert Humbert’s Camera Obscura and Lolita in Vladimir Nabokov’s Camera Lucida
Authors: Jung Byungsam
Published: October 2022

This article analyzes two types of visual perception in Vladimir Nabokov’s Lolita (1955): camera obscura and camera lucida, terms that are taken from photography and painting, respectively. By applying these terms, this article identifies a visual dilemma in how an artist perceives the object during the process of artistic creation—in a sense, a photographer cannot see the object itself at the moment of capturing the exposure, and a painter has to cease looking at the object and depict it from memory. Based on this visual dilemma, this article analyzes the two types of writing in Lolita: Humbert Humbert’s private diary written with his photographic memory and his manuscript for publication, his confession, written with his painterly imagination. This article argues that Humbert’s two ways of inscribing, camera obscura and lucida, fail to capture the full reality of the object because they are both based on his memory and inspiration rather than a vision of reality. Humbert is seized by his own inspiration that has been derived from his illusion, Lolita, that does not necessarily represent the reality of the object, Dolores. These examples epitomize Nabokov’s view that art has no or minimal relation to life.
Historicist Cosmopolitanism from Scandinavia’s First Novel
Authors: Larsen Mads
Published: October 2022

Today’s political despondency is informed by how Western populations no longer believe in the cosmopolitan stories that underpinned the modern world. Before Kantian universalism became hegemonic, the eighteenth century offered a variety of perspectives, like those of outpost philosophers Giambattista Vico and Johann Gottfried Herder. The scholarly and dramatic works of another thinker from the European periphery, Ludvig Holberg, have recently received new attention for their historicist themes. The ornery Norwegian polymath is praised for having anticipated the transnational cosmopolitanism that has reemerged in the past decades. Holberg was Scandinavia’s preeminent Enlightenment figure and is still beloved for his stage comedies. His only European success, Niels Klim’s Underground Travels (1741), argues for a cosmopolitanism situated in history, geography, and local culture. This article analyzes how the novel subverts its conte philosophique form to criticize common Enlightenment views on reason, universalism, and colonialism. Holberg’s philosophical “agonism of difference,” inferred from Niels Klim’s themes, is then used to evaluate four contemporary cosmopolitanisms: Appiah’s “universality plus difference” (2006), Tully’s “agonistic dialogue” (2008), and Habermas’s “legal order” (1997) and “postmetaphysical reason” (2019). What emerges suggests that Holberg anticipated a cultural collapse similar to what we experience today.
Leveraging the Multidisciplinary Tumor Board for Dissemination of Evidence-Based Recommendations on the Staging and Treatment of Gastric Cancer: A Pilot Study
Authors: Mehta Shivani N. , Shenvi Edna C. , Blair Sarah L. , Caudle Abigail , Lowenstein Lisa M. , Kelly Kaitlyn J.
Published: October 2022

Background

Compliance with evidence-based treatment guidelines for gastric cancer across the United States is poor. This pilot study aimed to create and evaluate a change package for disseminating information on the staging and treatment of gastric cancer during multidisciplinary tumor boards and for identifying barriers to implementation.

Methods

The change package included a 10-min video, a brief knowledge assessment, and a discussion guide. Commission on Cancer-accredited sites that perform gastrectomy were invited to participate. Participants completed the Organizational Readiness for Implementing Change (ORIC) scale (range, 12–60) and scales to measure the feasibility, acceptability, and appropriateness (score range, 4–20). Semi-structured interviews were conducted to further define inner and outer setting barriers.

Results

Seven centers participated in the study. A total of 74 participants completed the pre-video knowledge assessment, and 55 participants completed the post-video assessment. The recommendations found to be most controversial were separate staging laparoscopy and modified D2 lymphadenectomy. Sum scores were calculated for acceptability (mean, 17.43 ± 2.51) appropriateness (mean, 16.86 ± 3.24), and feasibility (mean, 16.14 ± 3.07) of the change package. The ORIC scores (mean, 46.57 ± 8.22) correlated with responses to the open-ended questions. The key barriers identified were patient volume, skills in the procedures, and attitudes and beliefs.

Conclusions

The change package was moderately to highly feasible, appropriate, and acceptable. The activity identified specific recommendations for gastric cancer care that are considered controversial and local barriers to implementation. Future efforts could focus on building skills and knowledge as well as the more difficult issue of attitudes and beliefs.