bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AI Enabled Airline Cabin Services: AI Augmented Services for Emotional Values. Service Design for High‐Touch Solutions and Service Quality
Authors: Rjsé Vássil , Jylkäs Titta , Miettinen Satu
Published: November 2023

This paper highlights the significance of emotional values within digital services during the airline cabin experience. Currently, emotional engagement with front‐line AI interactions, such as AI assistants, lacks trust. Thus, the role of AI must be reimagined to better integrate the human factor into the service experience through things like high‐touch in order to create trust and improve the perception of cabin service quality. Service design is a human‐centric approach to service creation in which the user is typically made the main subject of the service research; the service process (service interaction) then co‐creates values alongside the service provider. The major concept discussed here is AI Augmented Services (AIAS), which turn high‐tech capabilities into high‐touch “human centric” services that can offer access, control, and well‐being to the user, all of which are key components in the establishment of trust. Airline future services can then implement this study for the purpose of detecting human emotions, co‐creating emotional values, and promoting emotional intelligence through the AIAS interactive communication channels, thereby transforming high‐tech capabilities into high‐touch opportunities. The methodological approach began by determining a benchmark for the state‐of‐the‐art AI technology in transport and conducting a set of expert interviews. Notably, the possible materialisation and challenges of AIAS high‐touch cabin services are also discussed here. This article can be considered to be a first step toward a service design in which opportunities are discussed with the goal of “discovering” possible AI solutions. Consecutive stages will be presented in future articles in which the concepts introduced here will be further defined and developed.
DNMTs‐mediated SOCS3 methylation promotes the occurrence and development of AML
Authors: Zhang Xiaohui , Zhang Kai , Zhang Jing , Chang Wei , Zhao Yunguo , Suo Xiaohui
Published: November 2023

Objectives

As a tumor suppressor gene, SOCS3 inhibits the growth of tumor cells by regulating JAK/STAT signaling pathway through negative feedback. This study aimed to investigate the biological function and mechanism of SOCS3 methylation mediated by DNMTs in the development of AML.

Methods

Bone marrow samples were collected from 70 AML patients and 20 healthy volunteers. The expression and methylation status of each gene were detected by RT‐qPCR, western blot and MS‐PCR, and the growth and apoptosis rate of leukemia cell lines were detected by CCK‐8 and flow cytometry. The effects of changes in SOCS3 gene expression and methylation status of AML cell lines were observed by gene transfection and gene knockdown.

Results

The methylation rate of SOCS3 in AML initial treatment group was significantly higher than that in the remission group and the normal control group (60% vs. 0%, 0%). The expression of SOCS3 in the SOCS3 methylation group was significantly lower than that in the non‐methylated group and control group, while the expression of DNMT1, DNMT3a, p‐JAK2, p‐STAT3 and p‐STAT5 were significantly higher than those in the non‐methylated group and control group. Demethylation treatment, SOCS3 transfection and DNMT3a knockdown could up‐regulate the expression of SOCS3, which decreased the proliferation and increased the apoptosis of leukemia cell lines.

Conclusion

SOCS3 methylation mediated by DNMTs promotes the occurrence and development of AML and can be used as a potential biomarker for the diagnosis and efficacy evaluation of AML.
Long‐term treatment with ganaxolone for seizures associated with cyclin‐dependent kinase‐like 5 deficiency disorder: Two‐year open‐label extension follow‐up
Authors: Olson Heather E. , Amin Sam , Bahi‐Buisson Nadia , Devinsky Orrin , Marsh Eric D. , Pestana‐Knight Elia , Rajaraman Rajsekar R. , Aimetti Alex A. , Rybak Eva , Kong Fanhui , Miller Ian , Hulihan Joseph , Demarest Scott
Published: November 2023

Objective

In the placebo‐controlled, double‐blind phase of the Marigold study (NCT03572933), ganaxolone significantly reduced major motor seizure frequency (MMSF) in patients with cyclin‐dependent kinase‐like 5 deficiency disorder (CDD). We report 2‐year safety and clinical outcomes data from the open‐label extension (OLE) phase of Marigold.

Methods

Patients with CDD who completed the double‐blind phase were eligible to continue in the OLE. Efficacy assessments included MMSF reduction from prerandomization baseline, responder rates, and Clinical Global Impression–Improvement scores, including assessment of seizure intensity and duration (CGI‐CSID). Safety assessments included treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAEs) and TEAEs leading to discontinuation.

Results

Of 101 patients who enrolled in Marigold, 88 (87.1%) entered the OLE (median age = 5 years, 79.5% female). Median 28‐day MMSF at baseline was 50.6. At 2 years in the OLE (months 22–24), MMSF was reduced by a median of 48.2% (n = 50); when missing data were imputed, median reduction in MMSF was 43.8% using a mixed effects model and 27.4% using a last observation carried forward model. During months 22–24, 23 of 50 (46.0%) patients experienced reductions in MMSF of ≥50%; 12 of 50 (24.0%) patients experienced MMSF reductions of ≥75%. During months 22–24, 40 of 49 (81.6%) patients were rated by caregivers as having improvement in seizure‐related outcomes based on CGI‐CSID scores. Thirty‐seven patients discontinued ganaxolone due to lack of efficacy (n = 13), withdrawal by caregiver (n = 12), adverse event (n = 10), physician decision (n = 1), or death (n = 1; unrelated to study drug). The most common treatment‐related TEAEs were somnolence (17.0%), seizure (11.4%), and decreased appetite (5.7%). Patients reported serious TEAEs (n = 28, 31.8%); those reported in ≥3% of patients were seizure (n = 6), pneumonia (n = 5), acute respiratory failure (n = 3), aspiration pneumonia (n = 3), and dehydration (n = 3).

Significance

Sustained reductions in MMSF at 2 years in the OLE support the efficacy of ganaxolone in seizures associated with CDD. Safety findings in the OLE were consistent with the double‐blind phase.
Galectin‐3 in biliary atresia and other pediatric cholestatic liver diseases
Authors: Yoeli Dor , Mack Cara L. , Luo Yuhuan , Chaidez Alexander , De La Rosa Nathaly Limon , Wang Zhaohui , Cervantes‐Alvarez Eduardo , Huang Christene A. , Navarro‐Alvarez Nalu
Published: November 2023

Aims

Biliary atresia (BA) is characterized by intrahepatic inflammation and rapid progression of liver fibrosis. Galectin‐3, a beta‐galactoside binding protein, is a key regulator of inflammation and fibrosis. The aim of this study was to characterize circulating and hepatic Galectin‐3 levels in children with BA.

Methods

Plasma and liver samples were obtained from children with early BA at time of Kasai hepatoportoenterostomy, late BA at time of transplant, early and late other cholestatic liver diseases (CLD), and controls. Plasma Galectin‐3 was measured using standard enzyme‐linked immunoassay. Liver tissue was analyzed with multiplex immunohistochemistry and quantified using whole slide analysis. Statistical comparisons were made using nonparametric testing.

Results

Plasma Galectin‐3 in late BA was significantly higher than in early BA (20.82 [12.45–30.46] vs. 11.30 [8.74–16.83] ng/mL, p = 0.0096). Galectin‐3 levels correlated with markers of disease severity and interleukin‐6. There were significantly more Galectin‐3+ M2 macrophages in late BA in comparison to late other CLD (162 [157–233] vs. 49 [33–59] cells/mm2, p = 0.03). The number of Galectin‐3+ M2 macrophages correlated with the number of activated hepatic stellate cells and bile duct proliferation.

Conclusions

Plasma Galectin‐3 is higher in late BA at time of transplant in comparison to early BA at time of Kasai. The number of Galectin‐3 expressing M2 macrophages in late BA is elevated relative to late other CLD and was associated with other prognostic histological findings. Galectin‐3 targeted therapy may be beneficial in slowing disease progression to cirrhosis in children with BA.
Potential involvement of oncostatin M in the immunosuppressive tumor immune microenvironment in hepatocellular carcinoma with vessels encapsulating tumor clusters
Authors: Shigematsu Yasuyuki , Tanaka Kazuhito , Amori Gulanbar , Kanda Hiroaki , Takahashi Yu , Takazawa Yutaka , Takeuchi Kengo , Inamura Kentaro
Published: November 2023

Aim

Vessels encapsulating tumor clusters (VETC) represents an adverse prognostic morphological feature of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which is associated with an immunosuppressive tumor immune microenvironment (TIM). However, the underlying factors characterizing the TIM in HCC with a VETC pattern (VETC‐positive HCC) remain uncertain. Oncostatin M (OSM), a pleiotropic cytokine of the interleukin‐6 family, regulates various biological processes, including inflammation, proliferation, and invasiveness of tumor cells. We aimed to test a hypothesis that OSM is associated with the immunosuppressive TIM of VETC‐positive HCC.

Methods

A total of 397 consecutive HCC patients with curative‐intent hepatectomy were included. OSM‐positive cells and inflammatory cells including CD4‐, CD8‐, CD163‐, and FOXP3‐positive cells were immunohistochemically evaluated. We compared VETC‐positive and VETC‐negative HCCs in terms of the number of these cells.

Results

We found the VETC pattern in 62 patients (15.6%). Our analysis revealed a significant decrease in the expression of arginase‐1, a marker associated with mature hepatocyte differentiation, in VETC‐positive HCC (p = 0.046). The number of tumor‐infiltrating OSM‐positive cells was significantly low in VETC‐positive HCC (p = 0.0057). Notably, in VETC‐positive HCC, the number of OSM‐positive cells was not associated with vascular invasion, whereas in VETC‐negative HCC, an increase in the number of OSM‐positive cells was associated with vascular invasion (p = 0.042).

Conclusions

We identified an association between a decrease in OSM‐positive cells and the VETC pattern. Additionally, our findings indicate that VETC‐positive HCC is characterized by low hepatocyte differentiation and OSM‐independent vascular invasion. These findings highlight the potential interaction between VETC‐positive HCC cells and their TIM through the reduction of OSM‐expressing cells.
Australian data on the utilisation and duration on treatment of ibrutinib with a proton pump inhibitor in patients with relapsed or refractory chronic lymphocytic leukaemia
Authors: Salvaris Ross , Mulligan Stephen , Puig Andrea , McGeachie Marija , Opat Stephen
Published: November 2023

In Australia, over half of patients with relapsed/refractory chronic lymphocytic leukaemia treated with ibrutinib use concomitant proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). High gastric pH reduces the bioavailability of some Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors. There was no difference in duration on ibrutinib with or without concomitant PPI (unadjusted P = 0.61; adjusted hazard ratio: 1.23, 95% confidence interval: 0.75–2.02, P = 0.411). PPI use does not affect ibrutinib treatment persistence.
Look before you reach: Fixation‐reach latencies predict reaching kinematics in toddlers
Authors: Abney Drew H. , Jerry Christian M. , Smith Linda B. , Yu Chen
Published: November 2023

Research on infant and toddler reaching has shown evidence for motor planning after the initiation of the reaching action. However, the reach action sequence does not begin after the initiation of a reach but rather includes the initial visual fixations onto the target object occurring before the reach. We developed a paradigm that synchronizes head‐mounted eye‐tracking and motion capture to determine whether the latency between the first visual fixation on a target object and the first reaching movement toward the object predicts subsequent reaching behavior in toddlers. In a corpus of over one hundred reach sequences produced by 17 toddlers, we found that longer fixation‐reach latencies during the pre‐reach phase predicted slower reaches. If the slowness of an executed reach indicates reach difficulty, then the duration of pre‐reach planning would be correlated with reach difficulty. However, no relation was found with pre‐reach planning duration when reach difficulty was measured by usual factors and independent of reach duration. The findings raise important questions about the measurement of reach difficulty, models of motor control, and possible developmental changes in the relations between pre‐planning and continuously unfolding motor plans throughout an action sequence.
Improving post‐acute stroke follow‐up care by adopting telecare consultations in a nurse‐led clinic: Study protocol of a hybrid implementation‐effectiveness trial
Authors: Wong Arkers Kwan Ching , Kwok Vivian Wai Yan , Wong Frances Kam Yuet , Tong Danny Wah Kun , Yuen Bernard Man Kam , Fong Ching Sing , Chan Shun Tim , Li Wah Chun , Zhou Shiyi , Lee Athena Yin Lam
Published: November 2023

Aim

To evaluate the clinical effectiveness and implementation strategies of telecare consultations in post‐stroke nurse‐led clinics.

Background

Telecare consultations could be an alternative to conventional in‐person consultations and improve continuity of care for stroke survivors following their discharge from hospital. Previous studies utilizing telecare consultations only focused on testing their clinical effectiveness on stroke survivors; the appropriateness and feasibility of adopting this new delivery modality in a real‐world setting were not examined.

Design

A Type II hybrid effectiveness‐implementation design will be adopted.

Methods

Eligible stroke survivor participants will be randomly assigned to the intervention group (telecare consultation) or control group (usual in‐person clinic consultation). Both groups will receive the same nursing intervention but delivered through different channels. The Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, Maintenance framework will be used to evaluate the clinical effectiveness and implementation outcomes. The primary outcome is the non‐inferiority of the degree of disability between the two groups at 3 months into the intervention and at 3 months post‐intervention. The paper complies with the SPIRIT guidelines for study protocols adapted for designing and reporting parallel group randomized trials.

Conclusion

The findings of this study will provide key insights into the processes for implementing and adopting telecare consultations into long‐term services for post‐stroke patients.

Impact

This study contributes to the translation of telecare consultations for stroke survivors into real‐life settings. If effective, this program may provide guidance for expanding telecare consultations to other post‐stroke nurse‐led clinics or to patients with other chronic diseases.

Trial Registration

This study has been registered at clinicaltrials.gov (identifier: NCT05183672). Registered on 10 January 2022.
Tenacibaculum dicentrarchi produce outer membrane vesicles (OMV) that are associated with the cytotoxic effect in rainbow trout head kidney macrophages
Authors: Echeverría‐Bugueño Macarena , Avendaño‐Herrera Ruben
Published: November 2023

Tenacibaculum dicentrarchi is the second most important pathogen in Chilean salmon farming. This microorganism causes severe skin lesions on the body surface of farmed fish. The bacterium can also adhere to surfaces and form biofilm, survive in fish skin mucus, and possess different systems for iron acquisition. However, the virulence mechanisms are still not fully elucidated. Outer membrane vesicles (OMV) are nanostructures released by pathogenic Gram‐negative bacteria during growth, but none has been described yet for T. dicentrarchi. In this study, we provide the first reported evidence of the fish pathogen T. dicentrarchi producing and releasing OMV from 24 h after incubation, increasing thereafter until 120 h. Analyses were conducted with T. dicentrarchi TdCh05, QCR29, and the type strain CECT 7612T. The OMV sizes, determined via scanning electron microscopy, ranged from 82.25 nm to 396.88 nm as per the strain and incubation time point (i.e., 24 to 120 h). SDS‐PAGE revealed that the number of protein bands evidenced a drastically downward trend among the T. dicentrarchi strains. In turn, the OMV shared five proteins (i.e., 22.2, 31.9, 47.7, 56.3, and 107.1 kDa), but no protein pattern was identical. A heterogeneous amount of protein, RNA, and DNA were obtained, depending on the time at which OMV were extracted. Purified OMV were biologically active and induced a cytotoxic effect in macrophage‐enriched cell cultures from rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) head kidneys. This is the first step towards understanding the role that OMV could play in the pathogenesis of T. dicentrarchi.
Fatty Acid Composition of Total Lipids in Atlantic Salmon Salmo salar L. Parr and Smolts Reared in Aquaculture at Various Lighting Regimes
Authors: Provotorov D. S. , Murzina S. A. , Voronin V. P. , Kuritsyn A.E. , Nemova N. N.
Published: November 2023

Continuous artificial lighting (24LD) was introduced experimentally in the standard technology to grow salmon juveniles in a southern region (Republic of North Ossetia–Alania) and its effect on fatty acid (FA) composition of total lipids in muscles and the liver was assessed in parr and smolts of the Atlantic salmon Salmo salar L. Changes in the key FA were observed in the FA spectrum of fish, indicating that smoltification was complete and that smolts were ready for new habitat conditions. Thus the content of polyunsaturated FAs (PUFAs) significantly increased as a result of an increase in (n-3) PUFAs, and, in particular, marine-type 22:6(n-3), and high values were observed for (n-3)/(n-6) and 22:6(n-3)/18:3(n-3) PUFA ratios. The most significant changes were detected in muscles. In all experimental groups, a decrease in saturated FAs (SFAs) and an increase in total lipid unsaturation was attributed primarily to PUFAs, while monounsaturated FAs (MUFAs) decreased along with SFAs. The experimental data on the lipid and FA composition in salmon juveniles and a higher proportion of smolts in the test groups indicated that smoltification was the most successful in groups with continuous lighting and 24-h feeding and a natural regime of lighting and feeding.
Content of 13С and 15N Isotopes in Bone Collagen of Geographical, Age, and Sex Groups of the Ural Cave Bear (Mammalia, Carnivora, Ursidae, Ursus (Spelaearctos) kanivetz Verestchagin, 1973)
Authors: Kosintsev P. A. , Konovalova K. Yu. , Simonova G. V.
Published: November 2023

Data on the content of 13C and 15N isotopes in the collagen of bones of the Ural cave bear (Ursus (S.) kanivetz Verestchagin, 1973) from the North and Middle Urals were analyzed. The bones date from the first half of MIS 3. The bones of newborn individuals, individuals aged 1 year, males and females aged 2, 3, and 4 years, and older than 4 years were studied. Differences in δ13С values between age, sex, and geographical samples are not significant. With age, the value of δ15N significantly decreases, which is associated with weaning from milk nutrition to independent nutrition. The proportion of meat food in the diet of adult bears in the Middle Urals was higher than in the diet of adult bears in the North Urals. There are no noticeable differences in isotope signatures between males and females of different ages. The large cave bears of the Urals and Europe had a similar type of diet.
Hidden risk of gadolinium-based contrast agents during interventional pain medicine procedures: a retrospective chart review
Authors: Hallo-Carrasco Alejandro , Eldrige Jason , Provenzano David Anthony , Gonzalez-Estrada Alexei , Abdel-Latif Tesneem , Klasova Johana , Furtado-Pessoa-de-Mendonca Laura , Yan Dan , Hunt Christine
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Epidural steroid injections and epidural blood patches commonly involve the injection of a small amount of radiocontrast media under fluoroscopy to properly identify the target tissue or anatomic space and prevent off-target or intravascular delivery of therapeutic or diagnostic drugs. Iodinated low osmolar non-ionic contrast media is the standard preparation used as it is considered safe and cost-effective, but gadolinium-based preparations have been used as an alternative for patients with an ‘iodine’-related or radiocontrast media allergy label to prevent hypersensitivity reactions. The risk of neurotoxic events when gadolinium is inadvertently injected into the intrathecal space has been reported in recent years, raising concerns when gadolinium-based contrast media is used in lieu of iodinated low osmolar non-ionic contrast media.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted of patients who received gadolinium-based contrast media for procedures with risk of inadvertent intrathecal access from January 1, 2019 to May 1, 2022. Information on patient demographics, allergy label information, and procedure description was documented for all patients who receivedgadolinium-based contrast media for axial spine procedures (including epidural steroid injections, epidural blood patch procedures, and selective nerve root blocks), and all side effects reported within 1 month of the procedure were recorded. Saved fluoroscopy images of all procedures for which there was concern for possible gadolinium-based contrast media-related side effect were reviewed for evidence of inadvertent intrathecal gadolinium-based contrast media administration. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed using REDCap and IBM SPSS Statistics V.28.

Results

We identified 508 patients who received gadolinium-based contrast media during a fluoroscopically guided axial spine procedure. These patients underwent 697 epidural procedures and 23 patients were identified as experiencing an adverse event that could be consistent with possible, probable, or clear signs of exposure to intrathecal gadolinium. Our calculated adverse event rate was 3.3%. Ten patients required additional medical evaluation or treatment.

Discussion

Almost all patients in our cohort had an allergy label on their chart that guided the provider to switch to gadolinium-based contrast media, but most were incomplete, ill-defined, or related to allergy to iodine but not iodinated contrast media. Such practice is not recommended based on current guidelines. The current study raises concern regarding the use of gadolinium-based contrast media in axial spine procedures, with the risk of potential severe adverse events, without evidence-based need for avoiding iodinated contrast media.
Changes in needle maneuver space and optimal insertion site for midline neuraxial puncture with progressive age: an analysis in computed tomography scans
Authors: Hagenaars Martin , van den Dobbelsteen John J , van Gerwen Dennis J
Published: November 2023

Introduction

We systematically describe the morphology and accessibility of interspinous spaces across age groups of patients. Our primary goal was to objectively estimate if the maneuver space for a virtual spinal needle changes with age. Our secondary goal was to estimate if the optimal site and angle for midline neuraxial puncture change with age.

Methods

Measurements were performed in mid-sagittal CT images. The CT images were retrospectively collected from the database of the Department of Radiology of our hospital. Three age groups were studied: 21–30 years (n=36, abbreviated Y(oung)), 51–60 years (n=43, abbreviated M(iddle-aged)) and older than 80 years (n=46, abbreviated Old).

A needle trajectory is defined by the chosen puncture point and by the angle at which the needle is directed to its target. We define a Spinal Accessibility Index (SAI) by numerically integrating for an interspaceall possible combinationsof puncturepointsandanglesthat lead to a successful virtual puncture. Successful in this context means that the needle tip reaches the spinal or epidural space without bone contact. Reproducible calculation of the SAI was performed with the help of custom-made software. The larger the value of the SAI, the more possible successful needle trajectories exist that the practitioner may choose from.

The optimal puncture point and optimal angle in an age group at a certain level of the spine are defined by the combination of these two, which generates the highest success rate of the entire sample of this age group.

Results

At all levels of the spine, the median SAI differed significantly between age groups (independent-samples Kruskal-Wallis test, p<0.001–0.047). The SAI consistently decreased with increasing age. Post-hoc analyses using pairwise comparisons showed a significantly higher SAI in group Y versus Old at all levels (p<0.001—0.006) except at level thoracic (Th)1–Th2 (p=0.138). The SAI was significantly higher in group M versus Old at all levels (p<0.001–0.028) except at level Th1–Th2 (p=0.061), Th4–Th5 (p=0.083), Th9–Th10 (p=1.00) and Th10–Th11 (p=1.00).

Conclusions

Needle maneuver space in midline neuraxial puncture significantly decreases with progressive age at all levels of the spine. Optimal puncture points and angles are similar between age groups.
The Factors of Adolescent Depression in Jiangsu Province, China, from the Perspective of Social Ecosystem: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Xu Hua , Chen Zhao-hong , Ji Jin-jie , She Juan , Hou Chun-ting , Zhang Yan-hong
Published: November 2023

Background. The prevalence of adolescent depression is continuously increasing, impacting the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral development of adolescents. Therefore, it is crucial to comprehend depression from the perspective of the social ecosystem, necessitating further empirical evaluation. Methods. This study utilized a case-control study design. The cases consisted of adolescents with depression (aged 13–18 years) admitted to a psychiatric hospital in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China, from November 2021 to July 2022, meeting the diagnostic criteria for depression in the 11th Edition of the International Classification of Diseases. Control group students, with a matching gender ratio in the same region, were randomly recruited. Logistic regression analysis was employed to investigate the factors associated with depression, with gender and age as covariates. Results. The study comprised 200 participants, with 44 (22.0%) males and 156 (78.0%) females. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that increased adolescent depression was associated with being an only child (

AOR
=
2.680

, 95% CI: 1.106–6.492), living in urban areas (

AOR
=
3.324

, 95% CI: 1.077–10.267), experiencing school bullying (

AOR
=
9.087

, 95% CI: 2.044–40.408), having severe family dysfunction (

AOR
=
6.491

, 95% CI: 1.109–37.995), and possessing low core self-evaluation (

AOR
=
11.746

, 95% CI: 3.305–41.746). Odds ratios for each factor were statistically significant. Conclusions. Our results improve the evidence for associations between adolescent depression and core self-evaluation, school bullying, family function, living in urban areas, and being an only child. These findings should be taken into consideration in the assessment, intervention, and related policies for adolescent depression.
A Case of Myroides odoratimimus Bacteremia due to a Tunneled Dialysis Catheter-Associated Infection in a Paraplegic Patient
Authors: Chapman Carter , Meeks Barrett , Ung Liam , Nichols Jacob
Published: November 2023

Myroides odoratimimus is a Gram-negative opportunistic pathogen known to rarely cause a wide range of opportunistic infections in humans. We report a novel case of M. odoratimimus bacteremia in a paraplegic patient with an extensive medical history likely due to a tunneled dialysis catheter infection that was successfully treated with levofloxacin.
Diagnostic and Treatment-Related Challenges in Sinonasal Teratocarcinosarcoma: A Report of Three Cases
Authors: Scheurleer W. F. Julius , Braunius Weibel W. , Tijink Bernard M. , Janssen Luuk M. , Pameijer Frank A. , Breimer Gerben E. , Smid Ernst J. , de Bree Remco , Devriese Lot A. , Rijken Johannes A.
Published: November 2023

Background. Sinonasal teratocarcinosarcoma is a rare, aggressive malignancy located almost exclusively in the nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses, or anterior skull base. Histopathological diagnosis can be challenging due to the heterogeneous composition. Methods. Retrospective analysis of 3 patients with sinonasal teratocarcinosarcoma diagnosed and treated at the University Medical Center Utrecht was conducted. Results. Patients presented with nasal obstruction, epistaxis, headaches, or behavioral changes. All three patients had locally advanced disease, and one had lymph node metastases. Two patients underwent surgery followed by radiotherapy, and one underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by surgery. The follow-up duration ranged from 3 to 32 months. All three patients died due to progression of their disease. Conclusion. Sinonasal teratocarcinosarcoma is characterized by rapid, aggressive local expansion. The prognosis is poor due to a high risk of metastases and locally recurrent disease. Multimodality treatment consisting of surgery, followed by (chemo)‐radiotherapy, is essential for optimizing outcomes. Neoadjuvant therapy offers a promising treatment option.
An Enhanced Ant Colony Algorithm-Based Low-Carbon Distribution Control Method for Logistics Leveraging Internet of Things (IoT)
Authors: Liu You-wu , Li Jun-long , Liu Ming-yue , Jiao Bian-bian
Published: November 2023

This paper presents a low-carbon vehicle routing optimization model to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions in logistics and distribution. The model is solved using a hybrid algorithm of simulated annealing and ant colony optimization. It enhances the information pheromone concentration update process and directionality by introducing a carbon emission factor and a multifactor operator. Additionally, an adaptive elite individual reproduction strategy is employed to improve algorithm efficiency. In this case study focusing on cold chain logistics distribution, both the model and algorithm under consideration were evaluated. The findings affirm the effectiveness of the model in reducing carbon emissions and demonstrate the efficiency and robustness of the algorithm. Through this analysis, the paper sheds light on environmentally sustainable practices in logistics distribution.
Reactive Blue 2 Labels Protamine in Late-Haploid Spermatids and Spermatozoa and Can Be Used for Toxicity Evaluation
Authors: Yokota Satoshi , Wakayama Tomohiko , Miyaso Hidenobu , Suga Kousuke , Fujinoki Masakatsu , Kaneko Satoru , Kitajima Satoshi
Published: November 2023

Reactive blue 2 (RB2) dye specifically binds to the nuclei of human spermatozoa under weakly alkaline conditions, thereby providing a new method for assessing sperm quality. However, this technique has not yet been applied to other mammalian species, such as well-established rodent models, which would allow evaluation of the male reproductive toxicity of new drug candidates in nonclinical studies. We aimed to evaluate the usefulness of RB2 staining in assessing testicular and epididymal sperm toxicity in mice using a busulfan-induced infertility model. Male C57BL/6J mice were intraperitoneally administered 40 mg/kg of busulfan. After 28 days, the testes and epididymis were collected and stained with RB2 at pH 10. In vitro evaluations were conducted on uncoated glass slides with RB2 mixed with mouse synthetic protamines, protamines extracted from the human spermatozoa or intracellular protein components from somatic cells without protamines. Following peanut agglutinin lectin histochemistry, RB2-positive cells were observed in elongating and elongated spermatids at all stages except for stages IX–XI of the seminiferous epithelium. After busulfan administration, the proportion of RB2-positive germ cells in the seminiferous tubules was significantly decreased, and no RB2-positive spermatozoa were found in the caput epididymis of treated mice. Aggregates were observed in a mixture of RB2 dye (pH 10) and protamines but not in a mixture of intracellular protein components without protamines, and this specificity was lost at a neutral pH. Our study demonstrated that RB2 specifically stains steps 12–16 spermatids, indicating specific binding to the protamines expressed in these spermatids. The RB2 staining technique has potential as a biomarker for male reproductive toxicity, allowing for the rapid visualization of protamination in an animal model commonly used for the evaluation of male reproductive toxicity.
Exploring the Factors That Influence Stakeholder Participation in Decision-Making for the Moat System Restoration Project in Tianchang City, China
Authors: Yan Shihua , Ibrahim Roziya Binti
Published: November 2023

The driving factors have a critical effect on shaping stakeholder behavior toward participating in decision-making for river restoration initiatives. The participation of stakeholders is a vital determinant for increasing public confidence in the government and enhancing the acceptance of government decisions. Conversely, insufficient stakeholder participation in decision-making may lead to resistance to decisions on river restoration projects. Thus, the primary purpose of this investigation is to shed light on the complex interactions between the various drivers that underpin stakeholder participation in the context of the Moat System Restoration Project (MSRP). The extended Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) describes the relationships between seven drivers that have positively influenced stakeholder participation behaviors: stakeholder attitude, priority, risk perception, trust in government decisions, motivation, intention, and knowledge. The empirical underpinning of this research was obtained through a questionnaire survey conducted in Tianchang, China, encompassing a sample size of 473. The empirical findings discern that stakeholder attitudes vis-à-vis the MSRP favorably influence stakeholder participation behaviors. Additionally, stakeholder motivation and intention have been discerned as catalysts for heightened stakeholder participation behavior. These findings promise to furnish invaluable insights, benefit forthcoming river restoration initiatives, and equip decision-makers with a profound understanding of strategies to enhance stakeholder participation.
Mental Well-Being of AIMS Students During the Pre-Pandemic: A Case Study
Authors: Monsale Imelda , Garibay Marianne , Jasmin Patricia Camille
Published: November 2023

Using the Qualitative method, 25 AIMS students participated, sharing their mental health perceptions, status, and recommendations through Focus Group Discussions (FGD). Demographics show participants aged 18-22, mostly male, single, and Roman Catholic, with a significant representation from maritime programs. Clinical profiles reveal varied family arrangements, active campus involvement, full study loads, and some engagement in drinking and smoking. Mental health is mostly associated with cognition, with concerns including eating habits, sleep, medical issues, anxiety, and depression. Family-related stressors are primary, leading to emotion-focused coping strategies. Physical/social activities, education, and psycho-spiritual practices are suggested for promoting mental health on campus. The findings inform the development of mental health initiatives for the institution, emphasizing holistic well-being.

The study findings indicate that mental health, as perceived by these students, predominantly revolves around cognitive aspects. Concerns encompass eating habits, sleep patterns, medical issues, anxiety, and depression. The primary stressors identified are related to family dynamics, leading students to employ emotion-focused coping strategies.

To promote mental health on campus, students recommend a multifaceted approach encompassing increased participation in physical and social activities, heightened educational efforts and awareness, and the incorporation of psycho-spiritual practices. These insights serve as a foundation for the development of tailored mental health initiatives within the institution, emphasizing the holistic well-being of AIMS students.
Measuring Recidivism Rate: Its Predictive Variables and Antecedents
Authors: Delfin Maria Diana B. , Dalugdog Wilfredo D. , Dausan Alrien F. , Villa-Buena Elizabeth S.
Published: November 2023

This study examined the recidivism rate at the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology – National Capital Region (BJMP-NCR), Philippines, from 2020 to 2022 based on predictive variables and antecedents of recidivism. The results revealed that young individuals; males; married; Person Deprived of Liberty (PDL) with drug cases, leading to death or intending to cause death, and acts involving fraud and deception; and those having shorter stays in prison tend to recidivate more. Likewise, the pattern of recidivism in the Metro Manila District Jail (MMDJ) from 2020 to 2022 was affected by the existence of the COVID-19 pandemic. In conclusion, both predictive variables and antecedents of recidivism show no significant association with the pattern of recidivism.
Islamic Political Thought and the “Constitution of Medina”
Authors: Namazi Rasoul
Published: November 2023

The present inquiry is a contribution to the study of early Islamic political thought focusing on the earliest document of Islamic political doctrine, the so-called Constitution of Medina. What particularly distinguishes the procedure followed here is the attempt to establish a link between the source-critical approach to the study of early Islamic history and the historiography of Islamic political thought. This study will argue that the “Constitution of Medina,” whose authenticity is accepted even by the most skeptical scholars, can be a source for reconstructing a historically reliable understanding of early Islamic political thought. Without making a claim about the legitimacy of the source-critical approach, the objective here is to show how an unmediated study of this classic document made possible by the rise of the source-critical approach is a fruitful procedure. This will be shown through establishing a link between this unmediated approach and two of the classic issues in the thought of Muslim political thinkers: the questions of the relationship between Islam and citizenship and of the place of religious law in a Muslim political order.
Maono ya Bonde la Kilombero, Tanzania
Authors: Jackson Jonathan M. , Ching’ota Francis
Published: November 2023

Ikisiri

Makala hii inaangazia historia ya maendeleo ya bonde la Kilombero na hasa, dira juu ya maendeleo ya bonde hili lililoko kusini-kati mwa Tanzania. Tangu kipindi cha mwanzo cha ukoloni, bonde lilisifiwa kuwa na rutuba ya kutosha na mipango mingi iliandaliwa kuitumia rutuba hiyo kwa uzalishaji mazao. Matumizi ya ardhi hii yalitarajiwa kuleta mageuzi makubwa vijijini na kuboresha maisha ya watu. Ili kuelewa vyema dhima na umuhimu wa mipango ya awali juu ya bonde la Kilombero, makala hii inaangazia historia ya maendeleo kupitia mipango ya siku za nyuma ili kuona namna mipango hiyo ilivyosaidia maendeleo ya sasa na siku zijazo. Dhamira kuu nne za historia ya maendeleo zimeainishwa na kujadiliwa. Dhamira hizo ni: uimarishaji wa kilimo; udhibiti wa ikolojia; miundombinu; na makazi. Makala hii inaleta mtazamo mpya kuhusu Kilombero, lakini mtazamo huo unaweza kutumiwa katika historia ya maendeleo ya mahali popote nchini Tanzania.
Understanding Environmental Destruction as a Human Rights Violation
Authors: Kivinge Ivan B.
Published: November 2023

The environment is very important for the integrity of human personhood because humans are living beings in the world. Pope Francis refers to the world as our common home since it hosts human beings and other creatures. However, despite its importance to human life, the environment undergoes constant destruction through various human activities; and environmental degradation has implications that cut across individual human and collective rights. The right to life which allows humans to exercise other rights is under attack since life is supported by the environment as it provides life’s necessities including food, water and fresh air. Since efforts to seek concrete solutions to the environmental challenges have proven ineffective, the approach here combines the normative pursuit of moral justifications for claiming certain goods as fundamental human rights with the practical pursuit of procedural and institutional mechanisms to yield realisable solutions.
Rehearsing Genealogies of Violence
Authors: Laizer Neema Eliphas
Published: November 2023

Frank Coates’s contemporary popular romance novel, Tears of the Maasai (2004) is an excellent terrain to explore the trials of violence sustained through the imposed cartography, disease, and cultural exoticization of the Maasai resulting from contacts between the African Savanna and nineteenth century British colonialism. Mary-Louise Pratt’s concept of ‘contact zones’ illuminates the abuses endemic to these asymmetrical British-Maasai encounters, exhibiting how colonial stereotypes continue to infuse contemporary literary representations of ‘Maasainess’. Using Rob Nixon’s concept of ‘slow violence’ I demonstrate the ways in which the damage first imposed through the Maasai-British colonial contacts gets sustained today, as is evident in the grammar through which ‘Maasainess’ continues to be narrated, contributing to the contemporary predicaments of the Maasai. Thus I argue that the continuation of slow violence is perpetuated and enhanced through today’s exoticization, cultural tourism and appropriation.
Reference intervals of complete blood count and coagulation tests in Vietnamese pregnant women
Authors: Pham Huan Nguyen , Huynh Nghiem Xuan , Pham Phuc Nguyen Huu , Dang Dung Ngoc Yen , Cao Long Thang , Huynh Diem Minh , Thoi Hau Thi Thu , Le Oanh Hoang , Beaupha Suzanne Monivong Cheanh
Published: November 2023

Background

Pregnancy has major effects that make hematology parameters outside of normal reference ranges. Therefore, we conducted this study to establish reference intervals for Vietnamese pregnant women.

Methods

From June 2023 to Augst 2023, blood samples from 879 eligible pregnant women were run on DxH 900 hematology analyzer and ACL TOP 550 coagulation analyzer. The tested parameters are prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), fibrinogen (FIB), white blood cell (WBC) and its differentials (neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils and basophils), red blood cell (RBC), hemoglobin (HGB), hematocrit (HCT), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), RBC distribution width (RDW), RBC distribution width standard deviation (RDW-SD), platelet count (PLT), mean platelet volume (MPV). A non-parametric method was used to establish the 2.5th and 97.5th percentile reference intervals.

Results

PT, APTT decrease but fibrinogen increases during pregnancy. Physiological adaptations of pregnancy result in a decrease in RBC count, but an increase in WBC count and no changes in platelet count. The reference intervals for PT (seconds), APTT (seconds), fibrinogen (mg/dL), in the first trimester were 10.30–12.88, 25.40–35.46, 280.28–559.00, in the second trimester were 9.80–11.66, 24.05–33.23, 347.75–593.35, in the third trimester were 9.60–11.40, 23.40–31.80, 330.28–628.56, respectively. The reference intervals for main hematology parameters which are WBC (× 109/L), RBC (× 1012/L), HGB (g/dL), HCT (%), PLT (× 109/L) in the first trimester were 6.33–15.24, 3.73–5.32, 10.33–13.95, 32.22–42.29, 169.66–413.88, in the second trimester were 6.99–15.55, 3.33–4.98, 9.71–13.17, 30.26–40.07, 172.34–372.19, in the third trimester were 6.22–14.14, 3.54–4.98, 9.80–13.97, 31.11–42.70, 151.30–417.14, respectively.

Conclusions

Most established referenced intervals from each trimester differ from other trimesters. These trimester-specific reference ranges for Vietnamese pregnant women will aid clinicians in entepreting parameters and help other laboratories adopt these ranges after validating.

Trial registration

This study is registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT05929326.
Health effects and externalities of the popularization of sanitary toilets: evidence from Rural China
Authors: Gu Yingwen , Zhou Wanli , Zheng Tan , Huang Fang
Published: November 2023

Background

This study aimed to assess the impact of the increased prevalence of sanitary toilets in rural areas on the health of rural residents, and whether the popularity thereof has a positive externality. This study investigates whether the broader use of sanitary toilets has had a positive effect on the health of people who do not have access to them.

Methods

Data from the China Family Panel Studies from 2012 to 2014 and a two-way fixed effect model were used to investigate the relationship between the prevalence of village sanitary toilets and the health of rural residents of all ages.

Results

The results showed that: (1) the increase in the prevalence of sanitary toilets in villages is conducive to improving the health level of rural residents; (2) the widespread adoption of sanitary toilets in rural areas has improved the health of not only residents with access to these toilets but also residents without access; (3) the health of children is more sensitive to improvements in sanitary conditions of toilets; and (4) there are significant regional differences in the impact of the popularity of sanitary toilets on the health of rural residents.

Conclusions

This study found that the popularity of sanitary toilets has externalities, improving not only the health of residents who use them but also the health of other residents. This study enriches the literature in the field of health effects of sanitation improvement, while providing a reference for developing countries to further enhance the living environment in rural areas. In the future, the popularization of sanitary toilets should be vigorously promoted to reduce the incidence of diseases.
Do Modic changes contribute to lumbar instability or other way around? A retrospective study based on their types, extents, and affected lumbar segments
Authors: Mu Xiaoping , Deng Hansheng , Wei Xiaodong , Wei Jianxun , Caggiari Gianfilippo
Published: November 2023

Background

Which types of Modic changes (MCs) and whether or how specific factors associated to MCs work on lumbar instability have yet to be well understood. The purpose of this study was to investigate the influences of the types of MCs, the extent of MCs lesion involvement, and different lumbar levels involved by MCs on lumbar instability.

Methods

This retrospective study included 263 adult subjects with MCs who underwent lumbar X-ray examinations in the neutral, flexion, and extension positions. All patients who met our inclusion criteria were examined with 1.5 Tesla magnetic resonance units. Two experienced authors with more than three-year clinical experience independently evaluated and measured the subjects’ radiographic images. The subgroup analysis was performed to detect the differences in subjects’ baseline characteristics and lumbar segmental motions among three types of MCs, the extent of MCs lesion involvement and different lumbar levels involved by MCs.

Results

There was a statistical difference in body mass index (BMI) between different involvement extent of MCs (p < 0.01), indicating that the subjects with high BMI are more likely to develop severe MCs. The subjects with Modic type 1 change (MC1) had a significant increase in lumbar angular motion than those with Modic type 2 change (MC2) and Modic type 3 change (MC3) (p < 0.01) and compared with MC3, a significant increase in lumbar translation motion was detected in subjects with MC1 and MC2 (p < 0.01). While, angular motion decreased, translation motion increased significantly as the extent of MCs lesion involvement aggravated (p < 0.01). However, there were no statistical differences in lumbar angular and translation motions between different lumbar levels involved by MCs (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Higher BMI might be a risk factor for the development of severe MCs. MC1 and MC2 significantly contribute to lumbar instability. The extents of MCs lesion involvement are strongly associated with lumbar instability. However, different lumbar levels involved by MCs have little effect on lumbar stability.