bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Negotiation in group interaction: Longitudinal evidence from Chinese postgraduate EFL learners
Authors: Xu Jinfen , Shu Jing
Published: August 2024

Negotiation serves to solve communication problems in second language (L2) learners’ peer interaction including negotiation of meaning (NoM), negotiation of form (NoF), negotiation of content (NoC) and negotiation of procedure (NoP). The four negotiation types are initiated through negotiation strategies. This study examined how negotiation types and negotiation strategies were distributed and how the distributions developed. The data came from five rounds of group interaction conducted by 52 Chinese postgraduate students in a semester. The findings reveal significant differences in the distributions of negotiation types and negotiation strategies. NoC occurred significantly more frequently than NoM and NoF. Each negotiation type had its major negotiation strategies and they had significantly higher percentages than the other negotiation strategies. Specifically, NoM was mostly initiated by clarification requests, NoF by recasts, NoC by explicit appeals for assistance, and NoP by direct negotiations. Both competitive and supportive growths occurred in the longitudinal trajectories. This study provides a comprehensive and developmental insight into negotiation in EFL learners’ peer interaction and offers significant pedagogical implications.
Latin* Student Success After the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Victorino Christine A. , Ing Marsha , Claassen Thrush Elizabeth , Heil Scott , Harris Hayden , Cano Matute Arlene , Colchete Nicole
Published: August 2024

One notable outcome of the COVID-19 pandemic was the increased availability of online learning opportunities for higher education students. Despite the increased access and flexibility, few studies have examined the impact of Latin* students’ academic outcomes. Using a mixed-methods design, this study utilized administrative and focus group data from students enrolled in a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) to examine the educational outcomes and experiences of Latin* undergraduates. Findings suggest that the impact was especially acute for Latina students, who opted to complete courses online rather than in-person, enrolled in fewer credits, and experienced lower grade point averages compared to other female students.
Advocating the Use of Informal Conversations as a Qualitative Method at Live Events
Authors: Davis Leon , Brown Alyssa Eve
Published: August 2024

Informal conversations have been used in qualitative research for over 100 years. Whilst originally identified as a minor part of ethnographic study, scholarly literature in the 2020s has aimed to promote a greater use of the informal conversation method in qualitative research. In agreement with Swain and King (2022), informal conversations create a greater ease of communication and often produce more naturalistic data than other forms such as interviews. Using experiences from two qualitative studies at a range of multi-purpose arenas in the UK and Europe and English association football stadia, this article explores the use of informal conversations as a research method at live events. It provides strategies and guidance regarding how to successfully implement this method when collecting data; explains how informal conversations can be recorded effectively; and outlines how beneficial they are in producing valid and authentic data. The article also explores the ethical challenges that are faced when conducting informal conversations in live event spaces in terms of ethics, validity, and reliability.
From the Anthropocene to the Capitalocene and beyond
Authors: Horváth Márk , Lovász Ádám
Published: August 2024

Ever since its inception, the Anthropocene as a concept has proven divisive among researchers in both the natural sciences and humanities. While some accept its validity, integrating the Anthropocene into a broader postanthropocentric turn alongside related ideas such as posthumanism, others reject the Anthropocene as somehow incriminating a collective ‘humanity’ as a whole. For its critics, the Anthropocene is a mistaken concept, because it is supposedly blind to historical, social and political factors. Jason W. Moore, a Marxist environmental historian, has argued for replacing the Anthropocene altogether, in favor of the ‘Capitalocene’. This would denote the causal effect capital accumulation exerts upon planetary processes. For Clive Hamilton, however, it is the Capitalocene which is too shallow. Similarly, Dipesh Chakrabarty has argued that exclusively society- or history-centric ideas are not enough and fail to take account of the ways in which geological deep time radically transcends the bounds of human history. Chakrabarty admits the local relevance of critical theory – as do many Anthropocene researchers. Emphasizing the importance of social critique need not necessarily come at the expense of privileging a human temporal perspective In this article, we argue that the Capitalocene and related concepts fail to take account of how the Anthropocene challenges Western humanist meta-narratives of linear temporality, progress and emancipation.
Don’t Turn a Blind Eye to ENVIRONMENTAL VIOLATIONS
Authors: Y. Lo Chris K. , Tang Christopher S. , Zhou Paul , Andy C. L. Yeung , Fan Di
Published: August 2024

Many firms believe that the way to cope with environmental violations by their contract manufacturers is through greenwashing initiatives which they hope will protect them from collateral damage. Chris Lo, Christopher Tang, Paul Zhou, Andy Yeung, and Di Fan disagree, arguing that turning a blind eye to polluters in their supply chains can cause major problems for firms.
The New AAA Supply Chain
Authors: Lee Hau L.
Published: August 2024

Agility, adaptability, and alignment (AAA) have long been key factors in the success of world- class supply chains. In recent years, changes in environments and natural forces pose new challenges. For those who wish to remain competitive, Hau Lee suggests that it is time to revisit these AAA capabilities to understand what they mean today.
Admiral Jacky Fisher and the Art of DISRUPTIVE LEADERSHIP
Authors: Steenkamp Jan-Benedict
Published: August 2024

Firms around the world strive for disruptive leadership. Through a case study of Admiral Jacky Fisher, who completely disrupted the immensely powerful British Royal Navy at the beginning of the 20th century, preparing it for the onset, just four years later, of World War I, Jan-Benedict Steenkamp identifies six key characteristics of disruptive leadership.
Money, money, money… in the world of academia: On the relation of financial means, academic structures and knowledge production
Authors: Mayer Lina
Published: August 2024

Money plays a crucial role in science in many ways. Aspects of content in the context of everyday practice and scientific activity are also significantly influenced by financial means as well as funding conditions. The associated structures play a crucial role and can have a significant impact on work ethic and academic freedom of scientists. This particularly affects young researchers, as they are inferior to it in terms of both financial resources and decision-making power due to academic structures. Therefore, it is important to shed light on the role of money in academia and to reflect on the relation of conditions of financing, current academic structures, scientific work and knowledge production. To this end, a critical look at the related aspects will be taken. First, the question of why money is so important for scientific work and who is funded in the first place will be explored. Related to this is the question of how the exguidelines and existing circumstances contribute to the persistence of hierarchical structures in science and how this influences academic freedom and freedom of thinking. Finally, consequences for scientific practice will be discussed.
YAP1 regulates thrombopoiesis by binding to MYH9 in immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Hu Shuhong , Liu Yifei , Zhang Xiang , Wang Xiaoqi , Li Yanting , Chu Mengqian , Yin Jie , Fang Yanglan , Ruan Changgeng , Zhu Li , Wu Depei , Xu Yang
Published: August 2024

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is a complicated bleeding disease characterized by a sharp platelet reduction. As a dominating element involved in ITP, megakaryocytes (MKs) are responsible for thrombopoiesis. However, the mechanism underlying the dysregulation of thrombopoiesis that occurs in ITP remains unidentified. In this study, we examined the role of Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) in thrombopoiesis during ITP. We observed reduced YAP1 expression with cytoskeletal actin misalignment in MKs from patients with ITP. Using an experimental ITP mouse model, we showed that reduced YAP1 expression induced aberrant MK distribution, reduced the percentage of late MKs among the total MKs, and caused submaximal platelet recovery. Mechanistically, YAP1 upregulation by binding of GATA-binding protein 1 to its promoter promoted MK maturation. Phosphorylated YAP1 promoted cytoskeletal activation by binding its WW2 domain to myosin heavy chain 9, thereby facilitating thrombopoiesis. Targeting YAP1 with its activator XMU-MP-1 was sufficient to rescue cytoskeletal defects and thrombopoiesis dysregulation in YAP1+/− mice with ITP and patients. Taken together, these results demonstrate the crucial role of YAP1 in thrombopoiesis, providing potential for the development of diagnostic markers and therapeutic options for ITP.
Genetic engineering of transfusable platelets with mRNA-lipid nanoparticles is compatible with blood banking practices
Authors: Strong Colton , Leung Jerry , Kang Emma , Badior Katherine E. , Robertson Madelaine , Pereyra Nicolas , Rowe Elyn M. , Wietrzny Amanda , Ma Brenda , Noronha Zechariah , Arnold Deaglan , Ciufolini Marco A. , Devine Dana V. , Jan Eric , Cullis Pieter R. , Kastrup Christian J.
Published: August 2024

Platelets contribute to a variety of physiological processes, including inflammation, sepsis, and cancer. However, because of their primary role in hemostasis, platelet transfusions are largely restricted to managing thrombocytopenia and bleeding. One way to expand the utility of platelet transfusions would be to genetically engineer donor platelets with new or enhanced functions. We have previously shown that lipid nanoparticles containing mRNA (mRNA-LNP) can be used to genetically modify authentic platelets in a nonclinical crystalloid solution. Currently, platelets collected for transfusion are stored in plasma or in plasma supplemented with platelet additive solution (PAS) at supraphysiological concentrations at room temperature, or at 4°C if intended for use in acute hemorrhage. Here, we describe a new plasma-optimized mRNA-LNP for transfecting platelets directly in plasma and plasma supplemented with PAS that is scalable to physiological and supraphysiological platelet concentrations. Transfecting platelets in clinical solutions with mRNA-LNP does not affect aspects of in vitro physiology, and transfected platelets are storable. The compatibility of this transfection system with current clinical practices could enable future mRNA-LNP–based platelet products and cell therapies.
Exploring the efficacy and advancements of medical pleurodesis: a comprehensive review of current research
Authors: Castaldo Nadia , Fantin Alberto , Palou-schwartzbaum Michelangelo , Viterale Giovanni , Crisafulli Ernesto , Sartori Giulia , Aujayeb Avinash , Patrucco Filippo , Patruno Vincenzo
Published: August 2024

This narrative review aims to provide an overview of medical pleurodesis techniques, and their indications and potential adverse effects. Pleurodesis is a procedure performed with the aim of obliterating the pleural space. It has indications in the management of both malignant and benign pleural effusions and pneumothorax. Various nonsurgical techniques exist to perform pleurodesis. The scope of this work is to review the different nonsurgical techniques and their indications. This narrative review was performed checking scientific databases for medical literature, focusing especially on the data derived from randomised controlled trials. Pleurodesis is an effective method to manage pleural effusions and pneumothorax, and minimally invasive techniques are now frequently used with good results. Further research is needed to assess the efficacy of new treatments and the possibility of using different techniques in association.
Stage I and II nonsmall cell lung cancer treatment options
Authors: Hardavella Georgia , Magouliotis Dimitrios E. , Chalela Roberto , Januszewski Adam , Dennstaedt Fabio , Putora Paul Martin , So Alfred , Bhowmik Angshu
Published: August 2024

Chest radiography, computed tomography (CT) and positron emission tomography (PET)-CT are required for staging nonsmall cell lung cancers. Stage I cancers may be up to 4 cm in maximal diameter, with stage IA tumours being up to 3 cm and stage IB up to 4 cm. A lung cancer becomes stage II if the tumour is between 4 and ≤5 cm (stage IIA), or it spreads to ipsilateral peribronchial or hilar lymph nodes (stage IIB).

Stage IA tumours should be surgically resected, ideally using minimally invasive methods. Lobectomy is usually performed, although some studies have shown good outcomes for sublobar resections. If surgery is not possible, stereotactic body radiotherapy is a good alternative. This involves delivering a few high-dose radiation treatments at very high precision. For stage IB to IIB disease, combinations of surgery, chemotherapy or immunotherapy and radiotherapy are used. There is evidence that neoadjuvant treatment (immunotherapy with nivolumab and chemotherapy for stage IB and II) optimises outcomes. Adjuvant chemotherapy with a platinum-based doublet (typically cisplatin+vinorelbine) should be offered for resected stage IIB tumours and considered for resected IIA tumours. Adjuvant pembrolizumab is used for stage IB–IIIA following resection and adjuvant platinum-based chemotherapy. Osimertinib may be used for resected stage IB to IIIA cancers which have relevant mutations (epidermal growth factor receptor exon 19 deletions or exon 21 (L858R) substitution). There are no fixed guidelines for follow-up, but most centres recommend 6-monthly CT scanning for the first 2–3 years after definitive treatment, followed by annual scans.
Costs of HIV testing services in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic literature review
Authors: Ahmed Nurilign , Ong Jason J. , McGee Kathleen , d’Elbée Marc , Johnson Cheryl , Cambiano Valentina , Hatzold Karin , Corbett Elizabeth L. , Terris-Prestholt Fern , Maheswaran Hendramoorthy
Published: August 2024

Objective

To review HIV testing services (HTS) costs in sub-Saharan Africa.

Design

A systematic literature review of studies published from January 2006 to October 2020.

Methods

We searched ten electronic databases for studies that reported estimates for cost per person tested ($pptested) and cost per HIV-positive person identified ($ppositive) in sub-Saharan Africa. We explored variations in incremental cost estimates by testing modality (health facility-based, home-based, mobile-service, self-testing, campaign-style, and stand-alone), by primary or secondary/index HTS, and by population (general population, people living with HIV, antenatal care male partner, antenatal care/postnatal women and key populations). All costs are presented in 2019US$.

Results

Sixty-five studies reported 167 cost estimates. Most reported only $pptested (90%), while (10%) reported the $ppositive. Costs were highly skewed. The lowest mean $pptested was self-testing at $12.75 (median = $11.50); primary testing at $16.63 (median = $10.68); in the general population, $14.06 (median = $10.13). The highest costs were in campaign-style at $27.64 (median = $26.70), secondary/index testing at $27.52 (median = $15.85), and antenatal male partner at $47.94 (median = $55.19). Incremental $ppositive was lowest for home-based at $297.09 (median = $246.75); primary testing $352.31 (median = $157.03); in the general population, $262.89 (median: $140.13).

Conclusion

While many studies reported the incremental costs of different HIV testing modalities, few presented full costs. Although the $pptested estimates varied widely, the costs for stand-alone, health facility, home-based, and mobile services were comparable, while substantially higher for campaign-style HTS and the lowest for HIV self-testing. Our review informs policymakers of the affordability of various HTS to ensure universal access to HIV testing.
Assessing the validity of maternal report on breastfeeding counselling in Kosovo’s primary health facilities
Authors: McKay Melinda , Munos Melinda K. , Kim Sunny S. , Bryce Emily , Bucina Hana , Marchant Tanya
Published: August 2024

Background

Improving the quality of breastfeeding counselling delivered by primary care providers can improve breastfeeding outcomes and ultimately reduce mortality and morbidity of children and mothers. Accurate data on coverage and quality of primary care breastfeeding counselling is essential for monitoring progress; however, global and national indicators are limited. To help address this gap, this study validated indicators of receipt and quality of breastfeeding counselling during routine consultations for infant care at seven primary health facilities across Kosovo.

Methods

Mothers’ reports of breastfeeding counselling received during routine consultations for their infants (0–12 months of age) were collected by exit interview in 2019 and 2021 (n = 609). Responses were compared against direct observation of their consultation using a structured checklist (reference standard) by a trained third-party observer at the primary care facility. We assessed 13 indicators; ten were related to the receipt and content of breastfeeding counselling, and three were specific to the provider’s interpersonal skills. We calculated sensitivity, specificity, and area under the receiver operating curve (AUC) to determine individual-level reporting accuracy.

Results

Ten indicators had an agreement rate above 70% and seven indicators had high overall individual-level validity (AUC ≥ 0.7). High prevalence indicators recorded high sensitivity and low specificity, and the inverse for low prevalence indicators. More subjective indicators were less reliable, e.g., mothers over-reported the prevalence of all three indicators related to providers’ interpersonal skills.

Conclusions

This study offers evidence on breastfeeding counselling quality by validating maternal reports of whether a provider discussed breastfeeding, the clinical content of that counselling, and how it was delivered. It is also situated in a primary care setting within a fragile state of which there is limited evidence. We observed that mothers reported accurately when asked directly to recall breastfeeding counselling services received. However, there is a need to further validate subjective questions about interpersonal skills and other measures for the ‘experience of care’ quality dimension.
Effect of self-directed versus traditional learning model on nurses’ airway management competencies and patients’ airway-related incidents
Authors: Elhabashy Sameh , Moawad Amen
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Self-directed learning (SDL) stands as a contemporary approach to learning, offering efficient and sustainable strategies for enhancing knowledge and practices. Given the pivotal role of nurses in ensuring patient safety and care effectiveness, this study aims to assess the impact of the SDL model compared to the traditional learning model (TLM) on elevating nurses’ airway management (AM) competencies and minimizing airway-related incidents.

Methodology

The study employed an experimental research design using a posttest-only control group structure within a two-group comparison framework. Seventy-two nurses participated, with 35 in the study group and 37 in the control group at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital affiliated with Cairo University, Egypt. The trial was carried out between February 2020 and July 2021. Following an assessment of SDL readiness for the intervention group, they received SDL model training based on Knowles’ SDL principles, while the control group received TLM. The primary endpoint was a significant elevation in nurses’ airway management competency, with the secondary outcome being a significant decrease in airway-related incidents reported by nurses. Competency assessments occurred immediately after completion of the intervention and again three months later.

Results

A statistically significant difference was observed between the control and intervention groups regarding their practice and knowledge scores, with p-values of 0.02 and < 0.01, respectively. Additionally, the clinically relevant difference between control and intervention groups was evidenced by the effect size (ES) Cohen’s d in both practices and knowledge levels (-0.56 and − 1.55, respectively). A significant difference was also noted between the first post-assessment and the paired second post-assessment concerning nurses’ knowledge and practices among control and intervention groups, as indicated by the paired t-test with p < .01. Over three months, the intervention group reported 18 airway incidents, while the control group reported 24, with no statistically significant difference (> 0.05).

Conclusion

The SDL model significantly enhanced nurses’ competencies in AM compared to the TLM. However, the efficacy of both learning models diminishes over time. Although nurses who underwent SDL model reported fewer airway incidents compared to those who received TLM approach of learning, no statistically significant difference was detected.

Trial registration

The study has been registered with Clinical Trials.gov under the registration number (NCT04244565) on 28/01/2020.
A qualitative study exploring how vocational rehabilitation for people with multiple sclerosis can be integrated within existing healthcare services in the United Kingdom
Authors: De Dios Perez Blanca , Booth Vicky , das Nair Roshan , Evangelou Nikos , Hassard Juliet , Ford Helen L. , Newsome Ian , Radford Kate
Published: August 2024

Background

To explore how a vocational rehabilitation (VR) intervention can be integrated within existing healthcare services for people with multiple sclerosis (MS) in the United Kingdom (UK) National Health Service (NHS).

Methods

Data from 37 semi-structured interviews with 22 people with MS, eight employers, and seven healthcare professionals were analysed using a framework method informed by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research and an intervention logic model.

Results

Four themes were identified relating to the structure of current NHS services, how to improve access to and awareness of VR services, the collaboration between internal and external networks, and the benefits of integrating VR within the NHS services. Participants identified several implementation barriers such as poor links with external organisations, staffing issues, and lack of funding. To overcome these barriers, participants suggested enablers such as technology (e.g., apps or online assessments) and collaboration with third-sector organisations to reduce the pressure on the NHS.

Conclusion

Significant organisational changes are required to ensure a successful implementation of a VR intervention within current NHS services. Despite this, the NHS was seen as a trustworthy organisation to offer support that can optimise the health and professional lives of people with MS.
The burden of cough in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and other interstitial lung diseases: a systematic evidence synthesis
Authors: Green Rhiannon , Baldwin Michael , Pooley Nick , Misso Kate , Mölken Maureen PMH Rutten-van , Patel Nina , Wijsenbeek Marlies S.
Published: August 2024

Background

Cough remains a persistent symptom in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and other interstitial lung diseases (ILDs). To inform future research, treatment and care models, we conducted the first systematic synthesis of evidence on its associated burden.

Methods

A literature search was performed for articles published between January 2010 and October 2023 using databases including Embase, MEDLINE and the Cochrane Library. Studies in patients with IPF and other ILDs reporting cough-related measures were eligible for inclusion. Included studies were categorised based on the types of ILD they examined and their design. Study details, patient characteristics and outcomes were extracted, and the risk of bias was assessed. A narrative synthesis approach was employed to interpret the findings.

Results

Sixty-one studies were included: 33 in IPF, 18 in mixed-ILDs, six in connective tissue disease-associated-ILDs and four in sarcoidosis. Across the studies, a range of tools to assess cough and its impact were used. The most frequently used measures of cough were cough severity visual analogue scale (VAS) and objective cough counts, whereas the most frequently used health-related quality of life (HRQoL)/impact measures were the St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) and Leicester Cough Questionnaire (LCQ). In IPF, studies consistently reported correlations between various cough and HRQoL measures, including between cough VAS scores and objective cough counts, LCQ scores and SGRQ scores. Similar correlations were observed in studies in other ILDs, but data were more limited. Qualitative studies in both IPF and other ILDs consistently highlighted the significant cough-related burden experienced by patients, including disruption of daily activities, fatigue and social embarrassment. Although there were no studies specifically investigating the economic burden of cough, one study in patients with fibrotic ILD found cough severity was associated with workplace productivity loss.

Conclusions

Our study underscores the heterogeneity in assessing cough and its impact in IPF and other ILDs. The findings confirm the negative impact of cough on HRQoL in IPF and suggest a comparable impact in other ILDs. Our synthesis highlights the need for standardised assessment tools, along with dedicated studies, particularly in non-IPF ILDs and on the economic burden of cough.
Natural medicines-derived carbon dots as novel oral antioxidant administration strategy for ulcerative colitis therapy
Authors: Wu Tong , Bai Xue , Zhang Yue , Dai Ertong , Ma Jinyu , Yu Cai , He Chenxin , Li Qiannan , Yang Yingxin , Kong Hui , Qu Huihua , Zhao Yan
Published: August 2024

Background

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic intestinal inflammation, resulting in a global healthcare challenge with no real specific medicine. Natural medicines are recognized as a potential clinical alternative therapy, but their applications are limited by poor solubility and low bioavailability.

Results

In this work, inspired by the natural medicines of ancient China, novel functional carbon dots derived from Magnetite and Medicated Leaven (MML-CDs) were synthesized by hydrothermal method, and confirmed their ultrasmall nano-size (3.2 ± 0.6 nm) and Fe doped surface structure, thereby with excellent gastrointestinal stability, remarkable capabilities in eliminating ROS, and highly biocompatibility. With no external stimuli, the oral administration of MML-CDs demonstrated obvious alleviation to UC. Further experiments pointed that MML-CDs could improve hemostasis capability, suppress inflammation reactions and oxidative stress, and up-regulate the expression of tight junction proteins. Furthermore, MML-CDs also showed well regulation in the dysbiosis of intestinal flora.

Conclusion

Overall, above evidence reveals that green-synthesized MML-CDs can significantly alleviate intestinal bleeding, inhibit colon inflammation, and repair colonic barrier damage, further regulating intestinal flora and intestinal inflammation microenvironment. Our findings provide an efficient oral administration of MML-CDs as a novel therapy strategy for ulcerative colitis.

Graphical Abstract
Chromatographic fingerprinting of ipratropium and fenoterol in their novel co-formulated inhaler treating major respiratory disorders; application to delivered dose uniformity testing along with greenness and whiteness assessment
Authors: Ali Salma N. , Saad Samah S. , Fayed Ahmed S. , Marzouk Hoda M.
Published: August 2024

Ipratropium bromide (IPR) and fenoterol hydrobromide (FEN) have recently been combined in a promising inhaler to treat two prevalent inflammatory illnesses of the airways: bronchial asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The necessity for a single, sensitive, and trustworthy analytical approach to cover the diverse and necessary tests of in-vitro and in-vivo studies is greatly grown with the rising production of new fixed combinations. Two novel, selective and environmentally friendly LC techniques were developed in order to guarantee precise measurement of IPR and FEN in their challenging formulation. The initial technique involved high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) in conjunction with densitometric quantification. Chromatographic separation was attained on HPTLC plates utilizing ethyl acetate - ethanol - acetic acid (5.0:5.0:0.1, by volume) as a developing system. Densitometric quantification of the separated bands was carried out at 220.0 nm over concentration ranges of 0.50–15.0 µg/band for IPR and 0.50–12.0 µg/band for FEN. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) paired with diode array detection (DAD) was the core of the second technique. The optimized separation was achieved on a Zorbax SB C18 (150 × 4.6 mm, 5 μm) column with a combination of 10.0 mM potassium dihydrogen orthophosphate, pH 5.0 ± 0.1, adjusted with o-phosphoric acid and methanol (70:30, v/v) as the mobile phase and pumped at flow rate of 1.0 mL/min. The peaks were monitored at 220.0 nm using diode array detection, achieving linearity range of 5.0–200.0 µg/mL for both drugs. The ICH criteria have been verified and both methods have been confirmed to be valid, and successfully applied for assay the cited drugs in the Atrovent® comp HFA metered dose inhaler as well as delivered dose uniformity testing of the final product. Finally, whiteness appraisal and several state-of-the-art green evaluation metrics were applied to evaluate the sustainability of the proposed methods. The suggested approaches produced promising results and are the first simple and sustainable methodologies for the simultaneous quantification of both drugs in different real samples, all of which strongly suggest their application in quality control laboratories.
First detection of kdr L1014F allele in Anopheles ziemanni and Anopheles pharoensis in Cameroon and distribution of the allele in members of the Anopheles gambiae complex
Authors: Mayi Marie Paul Audrey , Antonio-Nkondjio Christophe , Bamou Roland , Damiani Claudia , Cappelli Alessia , Djiappi-Tchamen Borel , Djamouko-Djonkam Landre , Ilbeigi Khamseh Nejad Mahdokht , Pichler Verena , Ricci Irene , Favia Guido
Published: August 2024

Background

Knockdown resistance (kdr) is one of the primary resistance mechanisms present in anopheline species. Although this mutation is largely spread across the Anopheles gambiae s.l. members, its prevalence in other species is still not well documented.

Methods

The present study investigated the distribution and allelic frequencies of kdr in An. gambiae s.l., An. pharoensis, and An. ziemanni samples collected in 2022 and 2023 in nine sites spread across five ecogeographical settings in Cameroon. Members of the An. gambiae complex were identified molecularly by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). kdr L1014F and L1014S alleles were screened by PCR and confirmed by sequencing.

Results

An. gambiae (49.9%), An. coluzzii (36.5%), and An. arabiensis (13%) were identified, and the frequency of the kdr L1014F was high in both An. gambiae and An. coluzzii in all sites. The kdr L1014F allele was detected for the first time in 8 out of 14 An. ziemanni samples examined and in 5 out of 22 An. pharoensis samples examined. The kdr L1014S allele was scarce and found only in the heterozygote “RS” state in An. arabiensis and An. gambiae in Yangah and Santchou.

Conclusions

The present study sheds light on the rapid expansion of the kdr L1014F allele in malaria vectors in Cameroon and stresses the need for surveillance activities also targeting secondary malaria vectors to improve the control of malaria transmission.

Graphical Abstract
The role of hexokinases in epigenetic regulation: altered hexokinase expression and chromatin stability in yeast
Authors: Karri Srinivasu , Dickinson Quinn , Jia Jing , Yang Yi , Gan Haiyun , Wang Zhiquan , Deng Yibin , Yu Chuanhe
Published: August 2024

Background

Human hexokinase 2 (HK2) plays an important role in regulating Warburg effect, which metabolizes glucose to lactate acid even in the presence of ample oxygen and provides intermediate metabolites to support cancer cell proliferation and tumor growth. HK2 overexpression has been observed in various types of cancers and targeting HK2-driven Warburg effect has been suggested as a potential cancer therapeutic strategy. Given that epigenetic enzymes utilize metabolic intermediates as substrates or co-factors to carry out post-translational modification of histones and nucleic acids modifications in cells, we hypothesized that altering HK2 expression could impact the epigenome and, consequently, chromatin stability in yeast. To test this hypothesis, we established genetic models with different yeast hexokinase 2 (HXK2) expression in Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast cells and investigated the effect of HXK2-dependent metabolism on parental nucleosome transfer, a key DNA replication–coupled epigenetic inheritance process, and chromatin stability.

Results

By comparing the growth of mutant yeast cells carrying single deletion of hxk1Δ, hxk2Δ, or double-loss of hxk1Δ hxk2Δ to wild-type cells, we firstly confirmed that HXK2 is the dominant HXK in yeast cell growth. Surprisingly, manipulating HXK2 expression in yeast, whether through overexpression or deletion, had only a marginal impact on parental nucleosome assembly, but a noticeable trend with decrease chromatin instability. However, targeting yeast cells with 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2-DG), a clinical glycolysis inhibitor that has been proposed as an anti-cancer treatment, significantly increased chromatin instability.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that in yeast cells lacking HXK2, alternative HXKs such as HXK1 or glucokinase 1 (GLK1) play a role in supporting glycolysis at a level that adequately maintains epigenomic stability. While our study demonstrated an increase in epigenetic instability with 2-DG treatment, the observed effect seemed to occur dependent on non-glycolytic function of Hxk2. Thus, additional research is needed to identify the molecular mechanism through which 2-DG influences chromatin stability.
Sonographic findings using the SAFE-A protocol in pre- and post-hemodialysis patients
Authors: Rabahi Matheus , Polito Maria Goretti , Takaoka Larissa Louise Cândida Pereira , Conte Marcus Barreto , Colares Philippe Figueiredo Braga
Published: August 2024

Background

Accurate assessment of relative intravascular volume is one of the cornerstones for the proper management of hospitalized patients requiring hemodialysis. Currently, the use of dynamic parameters such as bedside ultrasonography is recommended to support the assessment of the intravascular volume profile. This study aimed to prospectively evaluate findings of sonographic assessment of intravascular volume estimate (SAFE-A) protocol among hemodialysis inpatients with end-stage renal disease, before and after the hemodialysis sessions, and correlate these findings with the net ultrafiltrate (UFNET).

Results

A positive correlation was found between the negative variation of 1 point in the score of the SAFE-A protocol with the withdrawal of 426.73 mL of net ultrafiltrate.

Conclusions

There was a strong correlation between the score of the SAFE-A protocol and the net ultrafiltrate. Therefore, this study concludes that the application of the SAFE-A protocol in dialysis patients demonstrates a correlation between the suggested score and volume status, consistent with findings from the original study conducted in a distinct population.
Organoid as a promising tool for primary liver cancer research: a comprehensive review
Authors: Hu Xuekai , Wei Jiayun , Liu Pinyan , Zheng Qiuxia , Zhang Yue , Zhang Qichen , Yao Jia , Ni Jingman
Published: August 2024

Primary liver cancer (PLC) is one of the most common malignant gastrointestinal tumors worldwide. Limited by the shortage of liver transplantation donors and the heterogeneity of tumors, patients with liver cancer lack effective treatment options, which leads to rapid progression and metastasis. Currently, preclinical models of PLC fall short of clinical reality and are limited in their response to disease progression and the effectiveness of drug therapy. Organoids are in vitro three-dimensional cultured preclinical models with a high degree of heterogeneity that preserve the histomorphological and genomic features of primary tumors. Liver cancer organoids have been widely used for drug screening, new target discovery, and precision medicine; thus representing a promising tool to study PLC. Here, we summarize the progress of research on liver cancer organoids and their potential application as disease models. This review provides a comprehensive introduction to this emerging technology and offers new ideas for researchers to explore in the field of precision medicine.
Situational Judgement Tests among Palestinian community members and Red Crescent volunteers to inform humanitarian action: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Moussaoui L. S. , Quimby M. , Avancini H. , Salawdi A. , Skaik F. , Bani Odeh R. , Desrichard O. , Claxton N.
Published: August 2024

Background

Informing humanitarian action directly from community members is recognized as critical. However, collecting community insights is also a challenge in practice. This paper reports data collected among community members and Red Crescent volunteers in the occupied Palestinian territory. The aim was to test a data collection tool, situational judgment tests (SJTs), to collect insights in the community around three themes.

Methods

The SJTs covered violence prevention, road safety, and environmental pollution (waste), and were constituted of hypothetical scenarios to which respondents indicated how they would react. For each theme, the answers’ pattern provides insights for humanitarian action regarding which beliefs to address. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in January and February 2023 with 656 community members, and 239 Red Crescent volunteers.

Results

Data showed that violence is the theme for which the need is the highest among community members. Some responses varied according to the public (age, governorate, or disability level), suggesting actions could be tailored accordingly.

Conclusions

Despite many difficulties during data collection, this study show that the tool allowed to collect community insights, a crucial task to ensure adequate response to the challenges faced by community members and Red Crescent volunteers in occupied Palestine.
Causal relationships between baseball-team participation and academic performance among students
Authors: Lin Huei-Min , Huang Kai-Cheng , Tsai Ching-Chih
Published: August 2024

The understanding that students on varsity baseball teams exhibit lower academic performance amid the growth of baseball in Taiwan is well established. However, some studies have indicated a positive correlation between sports participation and academic achievement. Therefore, this study delved into the causal relationships between baseball-team participation and academic performance among ninth-grade students in Taiwan. It further explored the influence of various background factors based on the three facets of family capital on their academic performance. Data collected from an education longitudinal survey of secondary school students. Through bivariate analysis, factor analysis, and multiple regression analysis, the following findings emerged: (a) Baseball-team students exhibited 47.5 points lower academic performance than non-baseball-team ones. (b)The low academic performance was not exclusively a result of the poorer academic performance of indigenous students. (c)The hypothesis that three dimensions of family capital impact on academic performance was supported. (d) Baseball-team participation contributed to the low academic performance, which was not caused by the low eighth-grade results of the students. They exhibited low BCT scores after their 8th-grade results was controlled.
The novel circFKBP8/miR-432-5p/E2F7 cascade functions as a regulatory network in breast cancer
Authors: Jin Zhongkui , Xu Wang , Yu Kunlin , Luo Cailu , Luo Xiaodan , Lian Tao , Liu Changshan
Published: August 2024

Background

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are capable of affecting breast cancer (BC) development. However, the role and underneath mechanism of circFKBP8 (also known as hsa_circ_0000915) in BC remain largely unknown.

Methods

Expression analyses were performed using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), western blot, and immunohistochemistry (IHC) assays. Effects on cell functional phenotypes were determined by assessing cell proliferation, migratory capacity, invasion, and stemness in vitro. The relationship between microRNA (miR)-432-5p and circFKBP8 or E2F transcription factor 7 (E2F7) was examined by RNA pull-down, dual-luciferase reporter, and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays. Xenograft assays were used to identify the function of circFKBP8 in vivo.

Results

CircFKBP8 was presented at high levels in BC tissues and cells. High circFKBP8 expression was associated with worse overall survival in BC patients. CircFKBP8 suppression inhibited BC cell proliferation, migratory capacity, invasion and stemness in vitro. CircFKBP8 suppression blocked xenograft tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistically, circFKBP8 functioned as a miR-432-5p sponge to modulate E2F7 expression. CircFKBP8 modulated BC cell malignant behaviors by miR-432-5p, and miR-432-5p affected these cell phenotypes through E2F7.

Conclusion

Our observations prove that circFKBP8 promotes BC malignant phenotypes through the miR-432-5p/E2F7 cascade, offering a promising therapeutic and prognostic target for BC.
Peritoneal-dialysis-associated peritonitis due to Staphylococcus sciuri: a case report and literature review
Authors: Ibarra-Sifuentes Héctor Raúl , Canales-Azcona Gustavo Abraham , Gómez-Arredondo Jaqueline Isabel , Rodríguez-Sifuentes Jesús Alfredo , Ríos-López Vanessa Vianey , Castellanos-Maldonado Abraham
Published: August 2024

Background

Peritoneal-dialysis-associated peritonitis is a serious complication of peritoneal dialysis; prevention and treatment are crucial to reduce patient morbidity and mortality. Staphylococcus sciuri is an organism that, although present in several animal species, rarely causes disease in humans, particularly in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis.

Case presentation

A 54-year-old man with end-stage kidney disease on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis was admitted to the emergency department with nausea, vomiting, slight abdominal distention, and cloudy peritoneal dialysis effluent. Relevant medical history included occupational exposure to different animal species. The white blood cell count in the peritoneal dialysis fluid sample was 11,200 cells/mm3 with 90% polymorphonuclear cells. Peritoneal-dialysis-associated peritonitis was diagnosed. Empirical antibiotic treatment was started according to the International Society for Peritoneal Dialysis guidelines. Staphylococcus sciuri was identified in the peritoneal dialysis effluent culture by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry. The treatment was modified on the basis of the sensitivity results. Medical cure was established on the basis of the negative result of the dialysate culture and absence of alterations in the cell count with differential after the end of treatment. The patient was instructed to be careful when administering peritoneal dialysis, especially in the care involved in being in contact with animals.

Conclusions

This article highlights the importance of Staphylococcus sciuri as a significant pathogen due to its virulence and antibiotic resistance, especially in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis. Prevention strategies as well as timely diagnosis and treatment compliance according to the International Society for Peritoneal Dialysis are essential for successful outcomes.
Machine learning approach for the prediction of macrosomia
Authors: Gu Xiaochen , Huang Ping , Xu Xiaohua , Zheng Zhicheng , Luo Kaiju , Xu Yujie , Jia Yizhen , Zhou Yongjin
Published: August 2024

Fetal macrosomia is associated with maternal and newborn complications due to incorrect fetal weight estimation or inappropriate choice of delivery models. The early screening and evaluation of macrosomia in the third trimester can improve delivery outcomes and reduce complications. However, traditional clinical and ultrasound examinations face difficulties in obtaining accurate fetal measurements during the third trimester of pregnancy. This study aims to develop a comprehensive predictive model for detecting macrosomia using machine learning (ML) algorithms. The accuracy of macrosomia prediction using logistic regression, k-nearest neighbors, support vector machine, random forest (RF), XGBoost, and LightGBM algorithms was explored. Each approach was trained and validated using data from 3244 pregnant women at a hospital in southern China. The information gain method was employed to identify deterministic features associated with the occurrence of macrosomia. The performance of six ML algorithms based on the recall and area under the curve evaluation metrics were compared. To develop an efficient prediction model, two sets of experiments based on ultrasound examination records within 1-7 days and 8-14 days prior to delivery were conducted. The ensemble model, comprising the RF, XGBoost, and LightGBM algorithms, showed encouraging results. For each experimental group, the proposed ensemble model outperformed other ML approaches and the traditional Hadlock formula. The experimental results indicate that, with the most risk-relevant features, the ML algorithms presented in this study can predict macrosomia and assist obstetricians in selecting more appropriate delivery models.