bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
c-Myc, AKT, Hsc70, and the T-Box Transcription Factor TBX3 Form an Important Oncogenic Signaling Axis in Breast Cancer
Authors: Ncube Stephanie M. , Nagarajan ArulJothi , Lang Dirk , Sinkala Musalula , Burmeister Carly A. , Serala Karabo , Blackburn Jonathan , Prince Sharon
Published: September 2024

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death in women globally, and it remains a health burden due to poor therapy response, cancer cell drug resistance, and the debilitating side effects associated with most therapies. One approach to addressing the need to improve breast cancer therapies has been to elucidate the mechanism(s) underpinning this disease to identify key drivers that can be targeted in molecular therapies. The T-box transcription factor, TBX3, is upregulated in breast cancer, in which it contributes to important oncogenic processes, and it has been validated as a potential therapeutic target. Here, we investigated the molecular mechanisms that upregulate TBX3 in breast cancer, and we show that it involves transcriptional activation by c-Myc, post-translational modification by AKT1 and AKT3, and interaction with the molecular chaperone Hsc70. Together, the results from this study provide evidence that c-Myc, AKT, Hsc70, and TBX3 form part of an important oncogenic pathway in breast cancer and thus reveal versatile ways of interfering with the oncogenic activity of TBX3 for the treatment of this neoplasm.

Implications: Targeting the c-Myc/AKT/TBX3/Hsc70 signaling axis may be an effective treatment strategy for TBX3-driven breast cancer.
Figure 5 from Targeting TREX1 Induces Innate Immune Response in Drug-Resistant Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Murayama Takahiko , Mahadevan Navin R. , Meador Catherine B. , Ivanova Elena V. , Pan Yuqiao , Knelson Erik H. , Tani Tetsuo , Nakayama Jun , Ma Xueying , Thai Tran C. , Hung Yin P. , Kim William , Watanabe Hideo , Cai Kathy Q. , Hata Aaron N. , Paweletz Cloud P. , Barbie David A. , Cañadas Israel
Published: September 2024

TREX1 expression is induced in posttreated human SCLC tumors. A, IF staining of CK + EpCAM (green), TREX1 (red) protein in patient 25 and patient 6 SCLC tumors are shown, pre- and post-chemotherapy treatment. B, TREX1 IF intensity in 10 patients is compared between pre- and post-chemotherapy treatment. C, TREX1 IHC intensity in a paired PDX tumor is compared between pre- and post-chemotherapy treatment. Scale bar, 100 μm. Data represent mean ± SEM. ns, not significant; *, P < 0.05; **, P < 0.01; ***, P < 0.001; ****, P < 0.0001 by paired Student t test (B).
Spheroid-Hydrogel-Integrated Biomimetic System: A New Frontier in Advanced Three-Dimensional Cell Culture Technology
Authors: Yoo Seungyeop , Lee Hyun Jong
Published: September 2024

Background: Despite significant advances in three-dimensional (3D) cell culture technologies, creating accurate in vitro models that faithfully recapitulate complex in vivo environments remains a major challenge in biomedical research. Traditional culture methods often fail to simultaneously facilitate critical cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions while providing control over mechanical and biochemical properties. Summary: This review introduces the spheroid-hydrogel-integrated biomimetic system (SHIBS), a groundbreaking approach that synergistically combines spheroid culture with tailored hydrogel technologies. SHIBS uniquely bridges the gap between traditional culture methods and physiological conditions by offering unprecedented control over both cellular interactions and environmental properties. We explore how SHIBS is revolutionizing fields ranging from drug discovery and disease modeling to regenerative medicine and basic biological research. The review discusses current challenges in SHIBS technology, including reproducibility, scalability, and high-resolution imaging, and outlines ongoing research addressing these issues. Furthermore, we envision the future evolution of SHIBS into more sophisticated organoid-hydrogel-integrated biomimetic systems and its integration with cutting-edge technologies such as microfluidics, 3D bioprinting, and artificial intelligence. Key Messages: SHIBS represents a paradigm shift in 3D cell culture technology, offering a unique solution to recreate complex in vivo environments. Its potential to accelerate the development of personalized therapies across various biomedical fields is significant. While challenges persist, the ongoing advancements in SHIBS technology promise to overcome current limitations, paving the way for more accurate and reliable in vitro models. The future integration of SHIBS with emerging technologies may revolutionize biomimetic modeling, potentially reducing the need for animal testing and expediting drug discovery processes. This comprehensive review provides researchers and clinicians with a holistic understanding of SHIBS technology, its current capabilities, and its future prospects in advancing biomedical research and therapeutic innovations.
Transamniotic Fetal Immunotherapy with Secretory IgA: A Potential Novel Ancillary Strategy for the Prevention of Necrotizing Enterocolitis
Authors: Whitlock Ashlyn E. , Moskowitzova Kamila , Kycia Ina , Nelson Jeffrey , Zurakowski David , Fauza Dario O.
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Secretory immunoglobulin-A (SIgA), which is not produced perinatally, binds bacteria enhancing mucosal immunity. Higher levels of intestinal bacteria bound by SIgA are protective against necrotizing enterocolitis. Transamniotic fetal immunotherapy (TRAFIT) has previously been used to deliver SIgA to the fetal digestive tract, however, with unclear functional impact. We sought to determine whether SIgA administered via TRAFIT could functionally bind intestinal bacteria postnatally. Methods: Fetuses (n = 38) from 4 dams underwent intra-amniotic injections of human SIgA on gestational day 19 (E19; term = E22–E23). After spontaneous delivery, pups were survived for 1–2 days postnatally before intestinal contents were procured and submitted to flow cytometry. Specimens were stained for bacteria (Syto-GFP) and human SIgA (PE) to prevent cross-reactivity with maternal rat SIgA. Results: Overall survival was 94.7% (36/38). SIgA-bacterial complexes were identified in all samples at all time points showing significantly higher positive PE events than unstained controls (p = 0.03–0.05). The proportion of bacteria bound by IgA decreased daily, from 45.6% to 29.9% bound at 4–6 days post-TRAFIT, respectively (overall p = 0.05). Conclusions: TRAFIT with secretory IgA leads to functionally IgA-bound bacteria into the postnatal period and may be a novel strategy for enhancing early mucosal immunity, potentially protecting the neonate against necrotizing enterocolitis.
After Nostalgia: Revisiting Palestine’s Poetics of al-Andalus
Authors: England Samuel
Published: September 2024

During the past thirty years, scholars of Arab cultural politics have struggled to articulate modern Palestinians’ unique ways of viewing the medieval past. Al-Andalus in particular fascinates authors and visual artists of Palestine. Our current theoretical framework within Arabic literature is poorly adapted to the sweeping historiography that these authors and artists create. This article revises the academic consensus that nostalgia is the organizing principle for Palestinian expressions of Andalusi identity. It provides a new way to understand the relationship between modern Palestinian poetics and the idea of a past Arab Iberia. Shifting from the affective theory of nostalgia that culminated in the early 1990s, I argue that Palestine’s version of al-Andalus in the twenty-first century works primarily as an artistic technique of reading Maghrebi texts rather than as an idyllic geographic place.
Tenebrio molitor flour as a partial fish replacer and its effect on the quality of hake sausages
Authors: Rodrı́guez R. , Alvarez-Sabatel S. , Ibargüen M. , Tueros I. , Talens C.
Published: September 2024

The effect of replacing hake with Tenebrio molitor on the physicochemical, nutritional and sensory characteristics of fish sausages was investigated in this study. Two types of samples were prepared, a control hake sausage (HFC, 49.3% hake) and a modified version in which hake was partially replaced by Tenebrio molitor insect flour (HFT, 44.37% hake + 4.93% insect flour). The colour, nutritional profile (including fatty acid profile), instrumental texture (TPA, texture profile analysis) and sensory analyses (QDA, quantitative descriptive analysis) were performed. The results showed that the sample including insect flour was darker, more yellowish and more reddish than the control sample. The replacement of 10% of the hake resulted in a reduction of fat and saturated fatty acids (SFAs) content and an increase in protein and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) content. The instrumental texture did not show significant differences between samples. The results of the sensory analysis indicated that there were significant differences () between all the parameters, with the exception of non-typical odour and pastiness. The results obtained indicate that Tenebrio molitor flour for partial fish (hake) substitution could be used as a sustainable strategy to promote the consumption of processed fish products, such as sausages, by improving their nutritional profile.
A new species of Huarpea Pate, 1947 (Hymenoptera, Sapygidae) from the semiarid region of Brazil
Authors: LOPES ROGÉRIO BOTION , MOLEIRO HENRIQUE PEREIRA , LUCENA DAERCIO A. A.
Published: September 2024

The genus Huarpea is recorded for the ﬁrst time in northeastern Brazil. A new species, H. rotundicornis Lopes, Moleiro & Lucena, sp. nov., is described and illustrated. The new species represents the first record of Huarpea in the Brazilian semiarid region, and the easternmost record of this genus in South America. A revised key for all known species of Huarpea, with illustrations of diagnostic features, as well as geographical distribution maps are also presented.
Chapter 3
Authors: Rudy Kathryn M.
Published: September 2024

Chapter 3 explores the pedagogical use of manuscripts in the Late Middle Ages, particularly how medieval individuals learned to interact with books and adopt reading behaviors. It begins by examining a miniature in a private prayer book from the1440s showing Christ as a teacher and brandishing a book. The image emphasizes how books served as educational tools linking teachers and students in a shared learning experience. This chapter shifts the discussion from production to reception, considering how medieval learners mimicked behaviors through performative demonstrations with books.

The chapter surveys educational practices, from children learning to read to adults engaging in complex religious instruction, and how these practices are reflected in manuscripts' wear patterns. It details the use of “picture Bibles” as educational tools, highlighting the effectiveness of colorful images and simpler texts for children. A key focus is how manuscripts designed for children, featuring alphabets and vivid imagery, prompted codified gestures.

The chapter considers case studies of specific manuscripts, such as a Book of Hours made for the Use of Paris, showcasing how a child's physical engagement with the book could complement her religious and literary education. This chapter also reflects on manuscripts featuring moralizing texts such as the "Ci nous dist" and the "Tafel vanden kersten ghelove," which served as catechisms for both young learners and adults.

The chapter concludes by acknowledging the influential role of educators in setting norms for book handling, which shaped the behaviors of the nobility and wealthy families. Through these interactive learning experiences, people who had access to the tools of literacy were inculcated with a deep respect for the book as a conduit for knowledge, spirituality, and moral guidance.
PixPol: An In-Water Multispectral Polarized Upwelling Radiance Distribution Camera System
Authors: Blocker E. Riley , Voss Kenneth J.
Published: September 2024

PixPol is an in-water multispectral polarized upwelling radiance distribution fisheye camera system. Its imaging sensors utilize a pixel-level polarizer structure allowing for polarimetric retrieval from one image capture, offering an advantage compared to other in-water polarimetric fisheye camera systems that require information from multiple images. When submerged, PixPol images a scene from which the first three Stokes parameters are derived at an angular resolution of 1° within a field of view that encompasses all azimuthal angles up to an elevation of 43° from nadir. For all viewing angles, Stokes parameter I and the linear polarization parameters, Q/I and U/I, are retrieved with an interpixel uncertainty of ±5%, ±0.02%, and ±0.02%, respectively. From these parameters, an uncertainty of ±0.01 is attained for the degree of linear polarization and ±0.9° for the angle of linear polarization. A description of the camera system, its radiometric and polarization calibration, and the associated uncertainties are described. Example images of the distribution of downwelling polarized light in the sky just above the ocean’s surface and upwelling polarized light just below the surface are provided.
I-WP geometry structural assessment: A theoretical, experimental, and numerical analysis
Authors: González-Navarrete Roberto , Vidal-Lesso Agustín , Plascencia-Mora Héctor , Reveles-Arredondo Juan F
Published: September 2024

The triply periodic minimal surface structures remain issues for attention, offering advantages such as high porosity and a significant surface area to volume, which are important in applications related to bioengineering, heat exchangers, energy absorption, among others. In this work, the elastic modulus and structural response of the I-WP cellular structure were studied for several relative densities through Gibson-Ashby model, numerical modeling, and experimental test. The constants C and n for the Gibson-Ashby model were estimated and exhibited an approximate common value at different relative densities. The constants exhibit good correlation with experimental results from relative densities of 30%, 50%, and 60%; and accurately predict the elastic modulus for densities of 55% and 70% with low errors of 3.09% and 9.89%, respectively. The constant values for C and n, indicate a mixed mode of deformation with bending as the primary governing factor. The combination of Hooke’s law and the Gibson-Ashby model provided a practical approach for predicting the reaction force with errors ranging from 1.98% to 15%. These findings contribute to providing C and n constants to understand the elastic modulus and structural response of the I-WP cellular structure and offer valuable insights for material design and engineering applications. In addition, the validated models provide an efficient procedure for predicting material behavior under compression conditions, saving time and resources compared to full-scale experimental testing. Overall, this study offers potential for further research in mechanical properties analysis.
Twee: Artificial Intelligence Assistant to Generate Versatile Materials for Language Education
Authors: Chen Zhenchun , Liu Tongyi , Liu Xiaobin
Published: September 2024

Teaching materials supplement language input in second language classrooms, requiring teachers to possess the ability to develop their own materials to meet practical teaching needs. However, teachers often face constraints such as time limitations and insufficient training. To address these challenges, this review explores the use of Twee, an online platform utilizing artificial intelligence and its integration with language teaching. Additionally, this review deliberates on potentials of Twee to enhance multimodal input and facilitate vocabulary learning.
A large thrombus within a giant coronary artery aneurysm in a child with Kawasaki disease: A case report
Authors: Wang Nan , Wang Haiyong
Published: September 2024

Kawasaki disease (KD) is an acute systemic vasculitis that preferentially involves coronary arteries in young children, and predominantly affects young children. Cardiovascular lesions are the most severe complications of this disease. Even though giant aneurysms are rare, they can complicate thrombus formation, leading to myocardial ischemia, myocardial infarction, and even cardiac death. Later in life, it can lead to steno-occlusive lesions. Follow-up led to coronary artery stenosis. In this article, we report a case of a pediatric patient with KD who presented with a large thrombus within a giant coronary aneurysm as a consequence of delayed treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and IVIG resistance, which contributed to the formation of coronary artery lesions. Transthoracic echocardiography is a valuable tool for detecting coronary artery abnormalities; however, computed tomography coronary angiography is valuable for precisely delineating coronary anatomy and complications. It is important to maintain a slightly higher international normalized ratio to decrease the risk of thrombosis in coronary artery aneurysms.
‘You have no face – so you have no eyes’: Experiences of women with visual impairments in Ileni Mwiitaleleko centre of Namibia
Authors: Tobias Elina I , Mukhopadhyay Sourav , Hako Anna N
Published: September 2024

Vision plays an important role in every individual’s life. Women with visual impairment face significant barriers in participating in academic, social, and community life and gather various experiences in their daily lives. This qualitative phenomenological study aimed to gain insights into the lived experiences of women with visual impairment and how they meet their everyday basic needs in the centre where they are accommodated. Employing a purposive sampling, nine women with visual impairment who are active members of the Ileni Mwiitaleleko Centre in the Oshikoto region of Namibia were recruited. Data were collected using individual interviews and focus group discussions with the help of interview guides. Data were analysed using the thematic approach. The study revealed that women with visual impairment encounter complex challenges to access and participate in family, social, and community events. Findings revealed complex challenges of accessing public services as participants have to hire someone to take them to various places; spending the social grant on water bills, electricity, and pond repair. They also experienced difficulties in maintaining steady love relationships and become highly vulnerable for neglect, abuse as well as discrimination. Currently, there is a lack of coordination among the three agencies and this has an implication for the inhabitants of the centre. The study recommends that both government and non-government agencies should continue providing support to the women with visual impairment in Ileni Mwiitaleleko Centre.
Compression-only versus standard cardiopulmonary resuscitation in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Ahmed Mushood , Fatima Laveeza , Ahsan Areeba , Jain Hritvik , Zahra Rubab , Asif Muhammad Hamza , Jain Jyoti , Basit Jawad , Ahmed Raheel
Published: September 2024

Background

Bystander-initiated cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can improve survival rates in individuals with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). Two CPR approaches are commonly utilized, standard (S-CPR) with mouth-to-mouth breathing and compression-only (CO-CPR). We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to compare clinical outcomes associated with S-CPR versus CO-CPR in OHCA.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) focused on adult OHCA patients receiving CO-CPR or S-CPR. Forest plots were generated for pooled data analysis using Review Manager version 5.4. Random-effect analyses were used, and statistical significance was set at p < .05.

Results

Four randomized controlled trials were included in the final analysis, encompassing a total sample size of 4987 patients (2482 in the CO-CPR group and 2505 in the S-CPR group). CO-CPR was associated with significantly improved 1-day survival compared with S-CPR (OR = 1.15; 95% CI: 1.02–1.31; p = .03) and survival to hospital discharge (OR = 1.25; 95% CI: 1.01-1.55; p = .04). No heterogeneity was observed among the studies for either outcome.

Conclusion

CO-CPR emerges as a promising strategy for improving outcomes in OHCA compared to S-CPR. However, further large-scale RCTs are required to generate more robust evidence.
Evidence-Based Infant Assessment for Cerebral Palsy: Diagnosis Timelines and Intervention Access in a Newborn Follow-up Setting
Authors: Sutter Ellen N. , Legare Janet M. , Villegas Melissa A. , Collins Kellie M. , Eickhoff Jens , Gillick Bernadette T.
Published: September 2024

Evidence-based assessment pathways inform early detection of cerebral palsy and access to intervention. This study investigated the relationships between early evidence-based assessments, diagnosis timeline, and rehabilitation intervention access in a population of children with cerebral palsy who were seen between 2010 and 2022 at the University of Wisconsin Waisman Center Newborn Follow Up Clinic. Cerebral palsy–specific assessments were increasingly integrated after the publication of early detection guidelines by Novak et al. in 2017. Age at cerebral palsy first mention (high risk for cerebral palsy) decreased over time, although age at diagnosis remained similar. Infants who received multiple evidence-based assessments were diagnosed at a younger age. Ninety-nine percent of children were referred to rehabilitation therapies before diagnosis. Infant age at referral to outpatient therapies decreased over time. This study provides novel clinical data on diagnosis timelines and identifies remaining gaps related to implementation feasibility toward improved early diagnosis and intervention access.
A Nomogram for Predicting Postoperative Pulmonary Complications in Critical Patients Transferred to ICU After Abdominal Surgery
Authors: Wang Bin , Liang Han Sheng , Shen Jia Wei , An You Zhong , Feng Yi
Published: September 2024

Objective

The purpose of this study was to investigate the risk factors associated with postoperative pulmonary complications(PPCs) in critically ill patients transferred to intensive care unit(ICU) after abdominal surgery and develop a predictive model for this disease.

Methods

Data for 3716 patients who were admitted to ICU after abdominal surgery in Peking University People's Hospital between January 2015 and December 2020 were retrospectively collected and analyzed to identify the risk factors and develop a nomogram prediction model. Data for patients admitted to ICU following abdominal surgery at Peking University People's Hospital from March 2021 to December 2022 were prospectively collected as a validation set to validate and assess the model.

Results

10 independent risk factors for PPCs in critically ill patients transferred to ICU after abdominal surgery were identified. A nomogram prediction model was constructed for PPCs in this group patients, the area under ROC curve was 0.771[95%CI: 0.756,0.786] and 0.759[95%CI: 0.726,0.792] in the training set and validation set, respectively.

Conclusions

In this study, independent risk factors for PPCs in critically ill patients transferred to ICU after abdominal surgery were identified. A nomogram prediction model for PPCs in critically ill surgical population was constructed using these factors, demonstrating a good predictive value.
Multi-body dynamics modeling and energy consumption optimization of electromagnetic mechanical fully variable valve system
Authors: Zhang Eryong , He Fengshuo , Lu Yong , Yang Xiaotao
Published: September 2024

Electromagnetic Mechanical Variable Valve Actuation (EMVVA) technology has the capability to improve engine performance and decrease pollutant emissions. A new type of EMVVA composed of electromagnetic driver and mechanical transmission is proposed to realize the flexible adjustment of valve parameters whether the valve is open or closed process. The geometric mathematical model of the mechanical transmission is developed based on the motion laws of the valve and the geometrical construction of the mechanical transmission, and the conjugate cam curve is solved. A multi-body dynamic model is constructed to calculate the driving torque and energy consumption needed by the mechanical transmission based on the mass, rotational inertia, centroid position of the parts, combining the normal contact force model and the friction model of the clearance contact pair at the same time. Based on the geometric model and multi-body dynamics model, the test platform is established. The test results demonstrated that within the specified valve lift, EMVVA system could accomplish variable valve lift, variable valve timing, and variable valve duration at maximum lift. The maximum timing error does not exceed 1° crank angle, and the maximum valve lift error does not exceed 0.25 mm at 11 mm valve lift. In addition, the error of driving torque between the multi-body dynamics model and the test is less than 0.3 [Formula: see text].Low energy optimization of mechanical transmission was completed using the NSGA-II method and multi-body model. According to the results of the optimization, energy consumption was reduced by 14%, and the peak driving torque was decreased by 54.3%.
Implementation of routine HIV testing policy in medical admissions in the sultanate of Oman: An experience from the Middle East
Authors: Al-Habsi Zeyana , Elgalib Ali , Shah Samir , Al-Fouri Maha , Al-Rawahi Bader , Al-Maani Amal
Published: September 2024

Objectives

To tackle the issue of late HIV diagnosis in the country, the Ministry of Health (MOH) in Oman introduced a national policy of routine opt-out HIV in medical admission units in September 2022. We hereby report the implementation and outcomes of this policy.

Method

All patients aged 16–65 years admitted to a medical ward in secondary and local hospitals were offered an HIV test regardless of their symptoms by medical doctors, with training and support from HIV teams. A retrospective review for the period from September 2022 to September 2023 was conducted to determine the HIV testing rate and outcomes of those testing HIV seropositive.

Result

Over 12 months, there were 23,399 admissions; 6889 had HIV tests. Thirty-two patients (0.46 %) were diagnosed with HIV; all of them were new diagnoses. Two cases were diagnosed during seroconversion. 12 cases had AIDS-defining illnesses. Four contacts were tested HIV positive. Twenty-five out of 28 alive patients are on ART.

Conclusion

This is the first national policy of a routine opt-out HIV in medical admission units in the MENA region. Our experience showed that, even in low HIV prevalence and high HIV stigma settings, this policy is feasible, acceptable, and effective.
The Role of Real-World Statistical Regularities in Visual Perception
Authors: Beck Diane M. , Center Evan G. , Shao Zhenan
Published: September 2024

Multiple models of vision propose that perception involves a process of prediction and verification. Here we argue that real-world statistical regularities—representations that, on average, more quickly make contact with meaning—serve as the basis of these predictions. We show that statistically regular images—those, we argue, that more closely match perceptual predictions—are more readily perceived and more efficiently processed than statistically irregular images.
Vibro-acoustic characteristics of rectangular plates with any number of point masses and translational springs
Authors: Liu Weilong , He Yijie , Zhu Ziyuan , Chen Feng , Wang Gang
Published: September 2024

In this paper, the vibration and the sound radiation characteristics of a rectangular plate loaded with concentrated masses and translational springs are analyzed using the Rayleigh-Ritz solution, in which the modified Fourier series is used to describe the vibration displacements of the structure. Arbitrary boundary conditions are simulated by artificial virtual spring technique. The vibro-acoustic field coupling model is developed and the accuracy of the present method is validated by several numerical examples. The effect of different parameters on the vibration response and sound radiation power of the coupled model is discussed, including plate parameters, point mass and translational spring size, position and number, as well as the location of that point where the excitation force acts. The method and its analysis results can be used for vibro-acoustic coupling analysis and control of rectangular plates.
A prognostic prediction model for acute pulmonary embolism
Authors: Zhan Yang , Che Xing
Published: September 2024

Acute pulmonary embolism (APE) is a very common and important medical emergency in intensive care units with an unfavorable prognosis. This study aims to explore the prognostic factors of APE and to construct a prognostic prediction model. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 252 APE patients in the emergency department of our hospital from January 2020 to March 2024. The initial observation endpoint was set as the mortality status of patients within 30 days of admission. Cox multivariate regression analysis was used to identify independent risk factors for prognosis. Based on these factors, a nomogram predictive model was constructed and evaluated using R software. Within 30 days of admission, 42 patients died with an overall mortality rate of 16.6% (42/252). Binary Cox multivariate regression analysis indicated that age ≥ 62.5 (HR: 2.64, 95% CI: 1.23–5.63, p = 0.012), right ventricular dysfunction (RVD) (HR: 4.58, 95% CI: 1.76–11.96, p = 0.002), white blood cell count (WBC) ≥ 13.1 (HR: 2.35, 95% CI: 1.20–4.60, p = 0.013), albumin/fibrinogen ratio (AFR) < 9.15 (HR: 3.36, 95% CI: 1.76–6.42, p < 0.001), Prognostic Nutritional Index (PNI) < 50.3 (HR: 4.35, 95% CI: 1.62–11.71, p = 0.004), and Systemic Inflammation Response Index (SIRI) ≥ 1.05 (HR: 7.21, 95% CI: 3.38–15.37,p < 0.001) were independent risk factors for mortality. The nomogram model based on these factors demonstrated a good predictive value for 30-day mortality, with an AUC of 0.908. The nomogram model based on age, RVD, WBC, AFR, PNI, and SIRI has a well prognostic value for APE patients.
Earth-centred law: Challenges and necessity
Authors: López Porras Gabriel
Published: September 2024

Earth-centred law (ECL) promotes Nature's intrinsic value and rights, challenging anthropocentric legal frameworks. Drawing from traditional knowledge, systems science, and Earth Jurisprudence, ECL addresses global ecological crises by redefining the human–Nature relationship. This opinion highlights the necessity and challenges of adopting ECL, emphasising its role in making legal and policy decisions that align human activities with Nature's stability. Despite significant obstacles, ECL is, it is argued, critical for living in harmony with Nature and for a just future for all life on Earth.
Online health monitoring of rotating machine elements using statistical spectral distances
Authors: Sankarankutty Rahul , Rathna Prasad Sagi , Shakya Piyush , Sekhar AS
Published: September 2024

The industry is increasingly recognizing the necessity for predictive maintenance solutions that are applicable for identifying various machinery faults and can be seamlessly integrated into online vibration-based condition monitoring systems. This article presents a methodology suitable for online monitoring based on statistical spectral image similarity analysis to diagnose incipient machine fault conditions induced under both stationary and nonstationary operating regimes. Discrete multivariate statistical distances are employed as similarity metrics for comparing the frequency/order spectra images computed for healthy and faulty conditions. An upper control limit to identify the anomalies and subsequently a root cause analysis to determine the underlying cause of the fault are proposed in the current work. The effectiveness of this method is illustrated by analyzing vibration data collected from extensive testing of gears, bearings, and shafts on various in-house test rigs, under both their normal and defective conditions. In addition, this method is employed for NASA IMS run-to-failure bearing dataset and found to be successful in identifying the initiation of the fault. The analyses demonstrate the proficiency of the proposed methodology in early fault detection and diagnosis, showcasing its effectiveness even with minimal raw vibration data.
When Politics Override Place: How Political Affiliation Supersedes Rural Identity
Authors: Hershewe Thomas , Smith Asher
Published: September 2024

How does partisan identity impact rural identity? While prior research has found associations between rural identity and partisanship, few studies experimentally validate this relationship. Using two separate experiments–a partisan prime and a conjoint–we explore the relationship between rural identity and partisan identity to show that when partisan identity is in conflict with rural identity, the partisan identity dominates. Our findings indicate that the relationship between partisan identity and rural identity is asymmetrical for Democrats and Republicans. For Republicans, rural identity often reinforces their partisan identity. However, for Democrats, rural identity is subordinate to their partisan identity. That is, Democrats weaken their rural identity when primed to think about their partisan identity and Democrats’ partisan identity supersedes the expression of a rural identity when rating hypothetical candidates. Overall, when rural and small town Democrats are thinking in a partisan mindset, their rural identity becomes less salient.
Abernethy Malformation and Gastrointestinal Bleeding: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Li Wenrui , Liu Bin , Feng Hai
Published: September 2024

Background: Congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunt (CEPS), also termed Abernethy malformation (AF) is a rare anomaly of the splanchnic venous system. Several approaches, including shunt closures through surgical or radiological interventions and liver transplantations, have been proposed, but clear comparisons among different treatment strategies are still unavailable. Purpose: We report a case in which an unusual portosystemic shunt was present between the dilated inferior mesenteric vein (IMV) to the right ovarian vein. A mini literature review of AF patients presented with gastrointestinal (GI) tract bleeding. Research design: Case report and literature review. Data Collection: An electronic search of PubMed was performed from inception to December 2023. Results: 34 AF patients presented with GI tract bleeding were identified published in the literature. The proportion of type II AF patients presenting with GI bleeding is greater (79%). Conclusions: We regard that both surgical ligation and endovascular closure of the shunt are effective and safe treatments for these patients, but coils embolization alone may not be sufficient to completely close the shunt when the shunt flow is high.
Paternal Postpartum Depression and Associated Factors Among Partners of Women Who Gave Birth in Seka Town, Southwest Ethiopia
Authors: Dabala Obsa , Abdulahi Misra , Worku Bekelu Teka
Published: September 2024

Despite epidemiologic studies demonstrating the increased incidence of paternal postpartum depression, their emotional health is overlooked throughout their partner’s pregnancy and postpartum period as postpartum depression has been traditionally construed as a disease of women. Traditional masculinity norms also result in a lack of recognition and barriers to the treatment of depression in men. This study is aimed to determine the prevalence and factors of paternal postpartum depression among fathers whose wives gave birth. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from July 7 to 17, 2023. The 288 sample size was estimated using a single population proportion formula and selected by random sampling technique. The data were exported from Kobo Toolbox and analyzed using SPSS version 26. Candidate variables were identified in bivariate at p < .25 for the multivariate analysis. A p < .05 and adjusted odds ratio (AOR) were used to determine the significance. A total of 280 partners participated making a 97.22% response rate. Paternal postpartum depression was 19.6%(95% confidence interval [CI] = [15.4%, 24.3%]). It was significantly associated with history of depression (AOR = 4.4, 95% CI = [1.7, 10.9]), unplanned pregnancy (AOR = 4.7, 95% CI = [1.9, 11.3]), alcohol consumption (AOR: 3.0, 95% CI = [1.3, 7.4]), infant sleeping problem (AOR: 3.0, 95% CI = [1.1, 8.9]), and mode of delivery (AOR: 3.0, 95% CI = [1.3, 7.6]). This study concluded that paternal postpartum depression was high. The researchers recommended the inclusion of men’s mental health services like screening into women’s postnatal health care.
Efficacy of Direct Versus Peripheral Adjuvant Dexamethasone on Duration and Rebound Pain in Regional Anesthesia for Outpatient Distal Radius Fracture Fixation: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Blinded Study
Authors: Kasper Alexis A. , Plusch Kyle , Voskerijian Armen , Barnabei David , Rivlin Michael , Beredjiklian Pedro K. , Wang Mark L.
Published: September 2024

Background:

Despite increasingly wider use, there remains controversy among anesthesiologists regarding preferred formulations and the role of steroid adjuvants in regional anesthesia. There is also uncertainty in the role of dexamethasone when administered directly versus peripherally. We hypothesize that directly mixing dexamethasone into the regional nerve block rather than peripherally administered intravenous dexamethasone will demonstrate a difference in efficacy concerning duration and rebound pain, decreased postoperative pain scores, or opioid consumption within the short-term postoperative period.

Methods:

A prospective, randomized controlled blinded study was conducted for patients undergoing open reduction and internal fixation with a volar plate technique for distal radius fractures. Patients were randomized for their preoperative anesthesia. One group had ultrasound-guided supraclavicular block with ropivacaine with a direct mix of dexamethasone 4 mg (Direct group), while the other group had ultrasound-guided supraclavicular block with ropivacaine and peripheral intravenous dexamethasone 4 mg (Indirect group). Data was collected pre, intra, and postoperatively.

Results:

Fifty patients consented and participated in the study, with 27 participants in the direct group and 23 participants in the indirect group. Compared to intravenous administration, directly administered dexamethasone demonstrated a significant difference in the average time for the block to fade, onset of motor and sensory recovery, and block resolution.

Conclusion:

Our findings prove that directly mixing dexamethasone compared to peripherally administered intravenous dexamethasone will demonstrate a difference in efficacy with regards to duration and rebound pain, but do not prove that there will be a difference in decreased postoperative pain scores or opioid consumption within the 24-hour postoperative period.

Level of Evidence:

Prognosis Level I
Managing Major Peripheral Nerves in Forearm-Level Amputations With TMR and RPNI: What’s the Best Recipe?
Authors: Rees Andrew B. , Mastracci Julia C. , Posey Samuel L. , Loeffler Bryan J. , Gaston R. Glenn
Published: September 2024

Background:

Targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR) and regenerative peripheral nerve interface (RPNI) prevent symptomatic neuroma formation in amputees. Forearm-level amputations present multiple muscular targets, making it challenging to determine the ideal treatment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the best TMR targets, role of RPNI, and appropriate patient-selection criteria in forearm-level amputations. We hypothesized that deep and distal TMR targets would best prevent symptomatic neuromas, RPNI would prove a success adjunct, and patients with poorly controlled diabetes would not develop symptomatic neuromas regardless of nerve management.

Methods:

We retrospectively identified forearm-level amputations performed between 2017 and 2022. Patients with TMR by outside providers, follow-up <6 months, or insufficient documentation were excluded. Demographics, surgical nerve management, and postoperative complications were collected. The primary outcome was development of a painful neuroma determined by the Eberlin criteria. Patients undergoing TMR were divided a priori into two groups, superficial and proximal versus deep and distal TMR targets, and were compared.

Results:

Thirty-nine patients met inclusion criteria, and 16 developed a symptomatic neuroma. No patients with a deep or distal TMR target developed a symptomatic neuroma. One nerve out of 12 treated with RPNI developed a symptomatic neuroma. No patient with poorly controlled diabetes developed a symptomatic neuroma, despite no advanced nerve management.

Conclusions:

In a case series of forearm amputations, deep and distal TMR targets prevented symptomatic neuroma formation more than superficial and proximal targets. R﻿egenerative peripheral nerve interface is a useful adjunct for neuroma control, especially for the radial sensory nerve. Patients with poorly controlled diabetes may not require advanced nerve management.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV retrospective case series
Complex Horizontal Cleavage Tear Repair of the Lateral Meniscus With Fibrin Clot Augmentation
Authors: Tollefson Luke V. , Slette Erik L. , LaPrade Robert F.
Published: September 2024

Background:

The menisci are critical for knee stability and cushioning and tears of the menisci have been linked to the acceleration of osteoarthritis. Horizontal cleavage tears split the meniscus into a top and bottom portion and are notoriously difficult to repair due to their localization in the avascular zone of the meniscus. Repair augmentation techniques, including fibrin clot and bone marrow venting, have been reported to increase meniscus healing.

Indications:

The use of a fibrin clot is indicated when there is a complex horizontal cleavage tear of the meniscus. There must be a clear separation of the top and bottom leaflets that can hold the fibrin clot inside.

Technique Description:

The horizontal cleavage tear is first identified, and a shaver with the suction left off is used to roughen between the upper and lower leaflets of the meniscus tear. A rasp is used inside the horizontal tear to roughen up the edges and expose the entire tear. Inside-out sutures are used in a hay bale technique to surround the tear. Thirty milliliters of blood are stirred until a fibrin clot is formed. This clot is stabilized with a circumferential Vicryl stitch and shuttled in between the leaflets of horizontal tear using a suture tied around the fibrin clot. The previously placed hay bale sutures are loosened to allow for placement of the fibrin clot. All sutures are tied at the end of the procedure.

Results:

A study by Nakayama et al reported a clinical success rate of 18 of 24 patients undergoing medial meniscus horizontal cleavage tear repair with fibrin clot augmentation. All patients with failures were in significant varus alignment. Another study by Kamimura et al with 10 patients reported increases in postoperative patient reported outcomes and a healing rate of 70% on second-look arthroscopy.

Discussion:

This fibrin clot interposition technique augments the repair of a horizontal cleavage tears. Due to horizontal cleavage tears being localized in the white-white avascular zone, augmentation including using a fibrin clot can help induce healing. This repair can help restore the stability and cushioning of the meniscus to slow the progression of osteoarthritis.
Capsaicin mitigates ventilator-induced lung injury by suppressing ferroptosis and maintaining mitochondrial redox homeostasis through SIRT3-dependent mechanisms
Authors: Lin Jinyuan , Ou Huajin , Luo Bijun , Ling Maoyao , Lin Fei , Cen Liming , Hu Zhaokun , Ye Liu , Pan Linghui
Published: September 2024

Background

Ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI) is one of the severe complications in the clinic concerning mechanical ventilation (MV). Capsaicin (CAP) has anti-inflammatory and inhibitory effects on oxidative stress, which is a significant element causing cellular ferroptosis. Nevertheless, the specific role and potential mechanistic pathways through which CAP modulates ferroptosis in VILI remain elusive.

Methods

VILI was established in vivo, and the pulmonary epithelial cell injury model induced by circulation stretching (CS) was established in vitro. Both mice and cells were pretreated with CAP. Transmission electron microscopy, ELISA, Western blot, immunofluorescence, RT-PCR, fluorescent probes, and other experimental methods were used to clarify the relationship between iron death and VILI in alveolar epithelial cells, and whether capsaicin alleviates VILI by inhibiting iron death and its specific mechanism.

Results

Ferroptosis was involved in VILI by utilizing in vivo models. CAP inhibited ferroptosis and alleviated VILI's lung damage and inflammation, and this protective effect of CAP was dependent on maintaining mitochondrial redox system through SITR3 signaling. In the CS-caused lung epithelial cell injury models, CAP reduced pathological CS-caused ferroptosis and cell injury. Knockdown SIRT3 reversed the role of CAP on the maintaining mitochondria dysfunction under pathological CS and eliminated its subsequent advantageous impacts for ferroptosis against overstretching cells.

Conclusion

The outcomes showed that CAP alleviated ferroptosis in VILI via improving the activity of SITR3 to suppressing mitochondrial oxidative damage and maintaining mitochondrial redox homeostasis, illustrating its possibility as a novel therapeutic goal for VILI.

Graphical Abstract