bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Concelhos, Leis, Estatutos e Querelas: Uma Trama Social em Évora e no Reino de Portugal dos Séculos XIV e XV
Authors: Eto Paulo Henrique Miranda
Published: February 2024

A partir da análise de duas fontes normativas municipais dos séculos XIV e XV, o Livro das Posturas Antigas de Évora e o Regimento de Évora, o presente artigo almeja compreender os discursos jurídico-estamental dos setores hegemônicos urbanos, e seus níveis de eficiência sobre a vida social da cidade, em especial a dos grupos subalternos. De modo geral, pretende-se construir um recorte espaço temporal sobre Évora e o Reino de Portugal na Baixa Idade Média. Com isso, ao longo do texto serão feitas aproximações sobre os conflitos, as ações coletivas e as relações de poder e trabalho nessas fontes primárias. Além disso, buscar-se-á produzir uma genealogia histórica e uma contextualização dos concelhos urbanos, e o papel dessas instituições e seus agentes no cenário urbano/rural nos últimos séculos do medievo português. Desse modo, partindo da ótica das representações dessas oligarquias, será feito um enquadramento acerca das implicações materiais e jurídicas dessa visão de dominação sobre as demais capas sociais, expondo as contradições e tensões dentro dessa relação.
Fernando de Noronha e a Guerra Fria: a base de rastreio de mísseis nas páginas do “Diário de Pernambuco” (1957-1962)
Authors: Sousa Francisco Weslley Pinheiro
Published: February 2024

O presente artigo analisa as notícias no jornal “Diário de Pernambuco” acerca da Cessão de Fernando de Noronha para os Estados Unidos entre os anos de 1957 até 1962, ou seja, em parte da Guerra Fria. Para fundamentar a pesquisa usou-se dos trabalhos de Rolim (2021) e Nascimento (2009), como também Luca (2008) para fundamentar a análise do periódico. Como resultado, pudemos compreender como o jornal buscou se alinhar com o governo em prol da cessão do arquipélago e como isso “inflamou” a política da época.
Marcas de Certificação no Brasil: um estudo sobre os atos normativos infralegais e os julgamentos de pedidos de registros no Instituto Nacional da Propriedade Intelectual
Authors: Flôr Priscila Grazielle , Foster André Xavier , Sartori Rejane , Marin João Paulo
Published: February 2024

A marca de certificação tem a finalidade de aferir características e níveis de qualidade à produtos e serviços, tornando-se um valioso mecanismo que lhes agrega valor de mercado. Ela só pode ser requerida por pessoa sem interesse na produção e comercialização do produto ou serviço a ser certificado. Devido a suas características intrínsecas, pedidos de marcas dessa natureza exigem atendimento a uma documentação mais complexa do que nos demais casos de sinais distintivos. Por essa razão, um número significativo de pedidos indeferidos foi observado ao longo dos anos, concluindo-se que o motivo se deve ao não atendimento de exigências legais e até mesmo ao desconhecimento desse expediente. O objetivo desse artigo é apresentar os atos normativos infralegais criados para contribuir no processamento desses pedidos, além de demonstrar o panorama atual das marcas certificatórias vigentes ou em fase de concessão, contemplando desde o primeiro pedido concedido no país, em 1957, até o ano de 2022. Esta é uma pesquisa documental e exploratória, com abordagem qualitativa, instrumentalizada com dados obtidos em pesquisas efetuadas no site do Instituto Nacional da Propriedade Industrial.
The Many Quarrels of Cain and Abel
Authors: Efrati Shlomi
Published: February 2024

Various Targums to the Pentateuch include an expansion to the biblical story of Cain and Abel, where the two brothers engage in a debate concerning divine justice and providence. The contents and form of the targumic debate vary widely, and its textual problems and possible theological and historical contexts have been discussed extensively. In this paper, I reconsider the relationships between the different versions of the debate in light of previously unnoticed textual evidence, primarily from textual witnesses of Targum Onqelos. I show that the Palestinian Targum tradition conflates, in different ways, two alternative versions of the debate, whereas some witnesses of Onqelos preserve only one of these versions in a slightly different form. I conclude that these witnesses preserve a source which was also used by the PalTg tradition and are not derived from the PalTg sources at our disposal.
From everyday exposure to pragmatic mastery
Authors: Wermelinger Stephanie , Daum Moritz M. , Gampe Anja
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we review recent findings on the development of communicative behaviour of monolingual and bilingual toddlers and preschoolers. We describe how the unique experience of growing up with two (or more) languages affects children’s everyday experiences and the pragmatics of their communicative behaviour. Deriving from this literature, we introduce a novel perspective on children’s development of communicative behaviour (COMmmunicative-Experience, COME), discussing potential mechanisms behind this pragmatic behaviour. It assumes that children experience communicative situations of varying efficiency and that these experiences shape their communicative behaviour: The more experiences children have with non-effective communicative situations, the larger their communicative repertoire becomes and the more flexibly this repertoire can be applied in a given situation. Notably, the COME perspective is not limited to bilingual communicative development but can be applied to a variety of other pragmatic contexts. Therefore, we broaden the discussion by identifying open questions for future research.
Revision of the alvinocaridid shrimp genus Rimicaris Williams & Rona, 1986 (Decapoda: Caridea) with description of a new species from the Mariana Arc hydrothermal vents
Authors: METHOU PIERRE , CHEN CHONG , KOMAI TOMOYUKI
Published: February 2024

A new species of alvinocaridid shrimp is reported, from the Northwest Eifuku hydrothermal vent field at 1619–1667 m depth on the Mariana Arc. A comprehensive phylogenetic reconstruction of Alvinocarididae based on the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene including this new species reveals the paraphyly of the genus Rimicaris Williams & Rona, 1986 with four other genera—Alvinocaridinides, Manuscaris, Opaepele, and Shinkaicaris—nested within it. We re-examine material of these four problematic genera, and synonymise them under Rimicaris whose diagnosis has been amended, in order to maintain a monophyletic Rimicaris. Our new species, Rimicaris cambonae sp. nov. is genetically close to Rimicaris loihi (Williams & Dobbs, 1995) comb. nov. (previously Opaepele loihi) with which it co-occurs, but can be morphologically distinguished by the less elevated dorsal surface of the rostrum, this being devoid of a median carina, a stronger pterygostomial tooth on the carapace, and a blunt rather than acuminate proximolateral process on the antennular stylocerite. Species previously assigned to the above listed, synonymized genera are also discussed, with new material examined for three key species: R. loihi, R. acuminata, and R. leurokolos. Further, Alvinocaridinides formosa Komai & Chan, 2010 and Manuscaris liui Wang & Sha, 2016 are synonymized under Rimicaris leurokolos (Kikuchi & Hashimoto, 2000) comb. nov. and R. acuminata (Komai & Tsuchida, 2015) comb. nov., respectively. Revised diagnoses are presented for R. loihi, R. acuminata, and R. leurokolos. After the present revision revision, Rimicaris now consists of 15 species.
Integrative description of a new species of Dugesia (Platyhelminthes, Tricladida, Dugesiidae) from Shennongjia, Central China
Authors: ZENG ZHI-YU , WANG JIA , SLUYS RONALD , GUO ZHI-PENG , SUN TING , HUANG XIA-ZI , LI SHUANG-FEI , WANG AN-TAI
Published: February 2024

A new species of the genus Dugesia (Platyhelminthes, Tricladida, Dugesiidae) from Xiangxi River, Shennongjia Forestry District, Hubei Province, China, is described on the basis of an integrative approach, involving morphology, and molecular systematics. The new species Dugesia saccaria A-T. Wang & Sluys, sp. nov. is characterized by the following features: a dumb-bell-shaped, muscularized hump located just anterior to the knee-shaped bend in the bursal canal; a ventrally displaced ejaculatory duct, which, however, opens terminally through the dorsal portion of the blunt tip of the penis papilla; a ventrally located seminal vesicle, giving rise to a vertically running duct that eventually curves downwards to communicate with the ejaculatory duct via a small diaphragm; oviducts opening asymmetrically into the dorsal portion of the common atrium and at the knee-shaped part of the bursal canal. The phylogenetic position of the new species was determined using four molecular markers (18S rDNA; ITS-1; 28S rDNA; COI), which suggested that it groups with other species of Dugesia from the Australasian and Oriental biogeographical regions.
Efficacy and tolerability of SEDIFLÙ in treating dry or productive cough in the pediatric population (SEPEDIA): A pilot, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter clinical trial
Authors: Núñez Carlos , Chiatti María Cristina , Tansella Francesco , Coronel-Rodríguez Cristóbal , Risco Ester
Published: February 2024

The aim of this trial was to assess the effectiveness of Sediflù, a medical device containing active herbal ingredients, on nocturnal and diurnal persistent coughs in children, with a duration of 3 to 7 days. Children with a dry and/or productive cough were enrolled in this prospective, interventional, multicenter, placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized clinical study. Clinical efficacy was assessed through the evaluation of the soothing action of Sediflù against dry and/or productive coughing, both at night and during the day, and other effects of coughing associated with quality of sleep: frequency, child’s quality of sleep, parental quality of sleep and severity. Treatment with Sediflù improved both night-time and day-time cough scores from day 2. The diurnal score also improved significantly in the Sediflù group at days 3 and 7. Sediflù syrup can be considered a valid treatment for cough management in younger children with upper respiratory tract infections, shortening the cough duration.
Multicentric Study on Oncological Outcomes and Prognostic Factors of Open Partial Horizontal Laryngectomies
Authors: Allegra Eugenia , Bianco Maria Rita , Modica Domenico Michele , Azzolina Alfio , Privitera Elio , Latella Daniele , Occhiuzzi Federico , Galfano Mario , Saita Vincenzo
Published: February 2024

Objective: In recent years, the number of open preservation surgeries for the treatment of laryngeal Cancer has increased. This surgery aims to maintain laryngeal function and ensure oncological radicality, thereby avoiding a total laryngectomy (TL) that could significantly impact the patient’s quality of life. The purpose of this study was to assess the oncologic results of OPHL I and II and to identify prognostic factors that could impact patient survival and local failure rates. Methods: This study was conducted on 182 patients with laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma treated with OPHLs between 2005 and 2015. The survival rates of a group of patients treated with TL between 2004 and 2014 were taken into consideration to compare survival outcomes. Results: The disease-specific survival in pT2 and pT3 tumors in relation to the type of surgery showed no statistically significant difference between OPHLs and TL ( P = .54 and P = .63, respectively). The 5-year T-recurrence-free survival showed that pT4 tumors, perineural/vascular positive invasion, and OPHL IIb + ARY-treated tumors were associated with a higher risk of tumor recurrence ( P < .0001, P = .0005 and P = .016 respectively). Conclusions: OPHLs represent an excellent alternative to TL considering the characteristics of the tumor and the general conditions of the patient.
Small Sample Size and Group Homogeneity: A Crucial Ingredient to Inter-Group Bias
Authors: Ziegler Johannes , Fiedler Klaus
Published: February 2024

Applying a recently developed framework for the study of sample-based person impressions to the level of group impressions resulted in convergent evidence for a highly robust judgment process. How stimulus traits mapped on the resulting group impressions was subject to two distinct moderators, diagnosticity of traits, and the amplifying impact of early sample truncation. Three indices of diagnosticity—negative valence, extremity, and distance to other traits in a density framework—determined participants’ decision to truncate trait sampling early and hence the final group judgments. When trait samples were negative and extreme and when the distance between high-density traits was small, early truncation of the trait samples fostered high group homogeneity and polarized impressions. Granting that mental representations of in-groups and out-groups rely on systematically different samples, our sampling approach can account for various inter-group biases: out-group homogeneity, out-group polarization and (because negative traits are more diagnostic) out-group derogation.
Secrecy in Everyday Life
Authors: Bianchi Valentina , Greenaway Katharine H. , Moeck Ella K. , Slepian Michael L. , Kalokerinos Elise K.
Published: February 2024

Secrecy is common, yet we know little about how it plays out in daily life. Most existing research on secrecy is based on methods involving retrospection over long periods of time, failing to capture secrecy “in the wild.” Filling this gap, we conducted two studies using intensive longitudinal designs to present the first picture of secrecy in everyday life. We investigated momentary contextual factors and individual differences as predictors of mind-wandering to and concealing secrets. Contextual factors more consistently predicted secrecy experiences than person-level factors. Feeling more negative about a secret predicted a greater likelihood of mind-wandering to the secret. Interacting with the secret target was linked with a greater likelihood of secret concealment. Individual differences were not consistently associated with mind-wandering to secrets. We conclude that daily experiences with secrets may be better predicted by momentary feelings rather than individual differences such as personality traits.
Mortality associated with SARS-CoV-2 in nondomestic felids
Authors: Drozd Mary , Ritter Jana M. , Samuelson Jonathan Peter , Parker Maryanna , Wang Leyi , Sander Samantha J. , Yoshicedo Jill , Wright Louden , Odani Jenee , Shrader Trent , Lee Elizabeth , Lockhart Shawn R. , Ghai Ria R. , Terio Karen A.
Published: February 2024

Between September and November 2021, 5 snow leopards ( Panthera uncia) and 1 lion ( Panthera leo) were naturally infected with severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and developed progressive respiratory disease that resulted in death. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 sequencing identified the delta variant in all cases sequenced, which was the predominant human variant at that time. The time between initial clinical signs and death ranged from 3 to 45 days. Gross lesions in all 6 cats included nasal turbinate hyperemia with purulent discharge and marked pulmonary edema. Ulcerative tracheitis and bronchitis were noted in 4 cases. Histologically, there was necrotizing and ulcerative rhinotracheitis and bronchitis with fibrinocellular exudates and fibrinosuppurative to pyogranulomatous bronchopneumonia. The 4 cats that survived longer than 8 days had fungal abscesses. Concurrent bacteria were noted in 4 cases, including those with more acute disease courses. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 was detected by in situ hybridization using probes against SARS-CoV-2 spike and nucleocapsid genes and by immunohistochemistry. Viral nucleic acid and protein were variably localized to mucosal and glandular epithelial cells, pneumocytes, macrophages, and fibrinocellular debris. Based on established criteria, SARS-CoV-2 was considered a contributing cause of death in all 6 cats. While mild clinical infections are more common, these findings suggest that some SARS-CoV-2 variants may cause more severe disease and that snow leopards may be more severely affected than other felids.
Effects of Homework Policy on EFL Literacy Development in Emergency Remote Learning: A Focus on Academic Self-Regulation
Authors: Cheraghi Fatemeh , Rahimi Mehrak
Published: February 2024

Homework as an essential component of the academic process supports teaching and learning by consolidating what the students learn in class and promoting their study skills and self-paced work capacities. While homework characteristics and its efficacy are reported to be interrelated, there is a lacuna in the research on the effectiveness of homework policy in learning outcomes in online classes, particularly under adverse conditions. As a result, the current study investigated the effects of homework policy (leniency vs. strictness) on EFL learners literacy (reading and writing) development, focusing on their academic self-regulation (ASR) level in a distance learning course amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were gathered from 36 K-10 students organized into homework packet and homework leniency groups. Their literacy skills and ASR were assessed before and after the study. Due to schools closure during the COVID-19 pandemic, both groups participated in distance learning courses delivered via the national mobile-based LMS. The results of the two-way Analysis of Variance primarily revealed a significant development in the reading and writing skills of the homework-packet group. Despite the marginal difference between the reading performance of high and low self-regulated participants of both homework conditions at the end of the study, a significant difference in the development of the writing skills of high self-regulated participants of the homework-packet condition was observed. The critical role of homework strictness in online courses and promoting learners’ self-regulation skills to benefit from the assigned homework, particularly in teaching writing, is underscored.
Development of a multiple cross displacement amplification combined with nanoparticles-based biosensor assay for rapid and sensitive detection of Streptococcus pyogenes
Authors: Dou Zhiqian , Xie Ling , Gao Meiling , Liu Dexi
Published: February 2024

Background

S. pyogenes, is a primary pathogen that leads to pharyngitis and can also trigger severe conditions like necrotizing fasciitis and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS), often resulting in high mortality rates. Therefore, prompt identification and appropriate treatment of S. pyogenes infections are crucial in preventing the worsening of symptoms and alleviating the disease's impact.

Results

In this study, a newly developed technique called multiple cross displacement amplification (MCDA) was employed to detect S. pyogenes,specifically targeting the speB gene, at a temperature of 63°C within 30 min. Then, an easily portable and user-friendly nanoparticles-based lateral flow biosensor (LFB) assay was introduced for the rapid analysis of MCDA products in just 2 min. The results indicated that the LFB offers greater objectivity compared to Malachite Green and is simpler than electrophoresis. The MCDA-LFB assay boasts a low detection limit of 200 fg and exhibits no cross-reaction with non-S. pyogenes strains. Among 230 clinical swab throat samples, the MCDA-LFB method identified 27 specimens as positive, demonstrating higher sensitivity compared to 23 samples detected positive by qPCR assay and 18 samples by culture. The only equipment needed for this assay is a portable dry block heater. Moreover, each MCDA-LFB test is cost-effective, priced at approximately $US 5.5.

Conclusion

The MCDA-LFB assay emerges as a straightforward, specific, sensitive, portable, and user-friendly method for the rapid diagnosis of S. pyogenes in clinical samples.
Longitudinal relationship between social participation, depressive symptoms, and activity impairment among older patients with arthritis: a moderated mediation analysis
Authors: Yan Zeping , Luan Xiaorong , Meng LiJun , Wu Yu , Qu Wenran , Zhang Simeng , Wei Huimin , Wu Shicai
Published: February 2024

Background

Arthritis primarily affects older people and is a prominent cause of their activity impairment. This study aimed to examine the mediating role of depressive symptoms in the relationship between social participation and activity impairment, as well as to determine whether sex moderated the mediating effect.

Methods

A total of 2247 older patients with arthritis were included from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study between 2015 and 2018. We first examined a simple mediation model where depressive symptoms were a mediator between social participation and activity impairment. Furthermore, sex was systematically integrated into the model as a moderator. The mediation model and moderated mediation model were analyzed using PROCESS macro.

Results

Mediation analysis revealed that the association between social participation and activity impairment was partially mediated by depressive symptoms (B = -0.10, 95% CI = [-0.14, -0.06]) with intermediary effect of 28.6%. Moderated mediation analysis indicated that mediation model was moderated by sex. The indirect effect of social participation on activity impairment among female patients (B = -0.15, 95% CI = [-0.21, -0.09]) was stronger than male patients (B = -0.04, 95% CI = [-0.09, -0.01]).

Conclusion

Social participation was the key protective factor associated with depressive symptoms and activity impairment among arthritis patients. Encouraging arthritis patients to social participation and improving the depressive symptoms might avoid activity impairment, especially for female patients.
Bisphosphoglycerate mutase predicts myocardial dysfunction and adverse outcome in sepsis: an observational cohort study
Authors: Huang Long , Wang Xincai , Huang Bawei , Chen Yu , Wu Xiaodan
Published: February 2024

Background

Sepsis not only causes inflammation, but also damages the heart and increases the risk of death. The glycolytic pathway plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of sepsis-induced cardiac injury. This study aims to investigate the value of bisphosphoglycerate mutase (BPGM), an intermediate in the glycolytic pathway, in evaluating cardiac injury in septic patients and predicting poor prognosis in sepsis.

Methods

This prospective study included 85 patients with sepsis. Serum BPGM was measured at the time of enrollment, and the patients were divided into a BPGM-positive group (n = 35) and a BPGM-negative group (n = 50) according to their serum BPGM levels. Baseline clinical and echocardiographic parameters, and clinical outcomes were analyzed and compared between the two groups. Kaplan–Meier analysis was used to compare the 28-day survival rate between BPGM-negative and BPGM-positive patients. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to explore the independent risk factors for 28-day mortality in septic patients. The predictive value of serum BPGM for sepsis-induced myocardial injury and poor prognosis in sepsis was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC)curve analysis.

Result

The serum level of BPGM was significantly higher in patients who died within 28 days compared to survivors (p < 0.001). Kaplan–Meier analysis showed that serum BPGM-positive sepsis patients had a significantly shorter 28-day survival time (p < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that serum BPGM (OR = 9.853, 95%CI 1.844–52.655, p = 0.007) and left ventricular ejection fraction-simpson(LVEF-S) (OR = 0.032, 95% CI 0.002–0.43, p = 0.009) were independent risk factors for 28-day mortality in sepsis patients. Furthermore, BPGM levels was negatively correlated with LVEF-S (p = 0.005) and positively correlated with the myocardial performance (Tei) index (p < 0.001) in sepsis patients. ROC curve analysis showed that serum BPGM was a good predictor of septic myocardial injury and 28-day mortality in sepsis patients.

Conclusion

The level of BPGM in the serum of sepsis patients can serve as a monitoring indicator for myocardial injury, with its high level indicating the occurrence of secondary myocardial injury events and adverse outcomes in sepsis patients.
Clinical and diagnostic values of metagenomic next-generation sequencing for infection in hematology patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Yuhui , Wang Jinjin , Niu Ting
Published: February 2024

Objectives

This meta-analysis focused on systematically assessing the clinical value of mNGS for infection in hematology patients.

Methods

We searched for studies that assessed the clinical value of mNGS for infection in hematology patients published in Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and CNKI from inception to August 30, 2023. We compared the detection positive rate of pathogen for mNGS and conventional microbiological tests (CMTs). The diagnostic metrics, antibiotic adjustment rate and treatment effective rate were combined.

Results

Twenty-two studies with 2325 patients were included. The positive rate of mNGS was higher than that of CMT (blood: 71.64% vs. 24.82%, P < 0.001; BALF: 89.86% vs. 20.78%, P < 0.001; mixed specimens: 82.02% vs. 28.12%, P < 0.001). The pooled sensitivity and specificity were 87% (95%CI: 81–91%) and 59% (95%CI: 43–72%), respectively. The reference standard/neutropenia and research type/reference standard may be sources of heterogeneity in sensitivity and specificity, respectively. The pooled antibiotic adjustment rate according to mNGS was 49.6% (95% CI: 41.8–57.4%), and the pooled effective rate was 80.9% (95% CI: 62.4–99.3%).

Conclusion

mNGS has high positive detection rates in hematology patients. mNGS can guide clinical antibiotic adjustments and improve prognosis, especially in China.
Examining second-stage shelters: insights into housing instability and tailored support for IPV survivors
Authors: Rempel Ebony , Donelle Lorie , Hall Jodi , Wathen Nadine
Published: February 2024

Background

Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) exposes women and children to a wide range of challenges across housing, employment, social connections, and child well-being and is a public health issue. IPV survivors are at heightened risk of housing insecurity and homelessness. Emergency shelters have historically offered respite and support, but the emergence of second-stage shelters provides longer-term solutions. Despite their significance, there has been a lack of comprehensive research on second-stage shelters. This study focuses on understanding the needs of IPV survivors accessing second-stage shelters, aiming to illuminate unexplored aspects of support. To examine the current published peer-reviewed literature and gray literature on second-stage shelters, a scoping review was conducted.

Methods

This scoping review used the method suggested by Arksey & O’Malley (2005) and considered all studies that focused on women who had experienced IPV and were accessing transitional housing/second-stage shelters.

Results

Sixteen articles, mainly from the USA and published between 1985 and 2022, were included in the analysis. The findings highlighted themes of (1) a safe(r) place, with the subtheme of ‘gated’ communities, and (2) programming and services, with the subtheme of does one size fit all? and (3) insider support, with subthemes of paid insider support and peer insider support.

Conclusions

Housing instability was evident, and the need for multiple and individualized tailored options of programming and support along with housing security was identified. Second-stage housing policy and practice implications are addressed which illuminate unexplored aspects of support.
De-obstruction of bladder outlet in humans reverses organ remodelling by normalizing the expression of key transcription factors
Authors: Akshay Akshay , Gheinani Ali Hashemi , Besic Mustafa , Braga Sophie , Uldry Anne-Christine , Heller Manfred , Rehrauer Hubert , Fournier Catharine Aquino , Burkhard Fiona C. , Monastyrskaya Katia
Published: February 2024

Background

Benign prostatic hyperplasia in elderly males often causes bladder outlet obstruction termed benign prostatic obstruction (BPO). BPO induces lower urinary tract symptoms and quantifiable urodynamic alterations in bladder function. When conservative medical treatments are exhausted, surgical interventions like transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) are employed for bladder outlet de-obstruction. Elucidating the molecular changes in the human bladder resulting from BPO and their reversal post-de-obstruction is pivotal for defining the “point of no return”, when the organ deterioration becomes irreversible. In this study we carried out a comprehensive molecular and urodynamic characterization of the bladders in men with BPO before TURP and 3 months after the relief of obstruction.

Methods

We report integrated transcriptome and proteome analysis of bladder samples from male patients with BPO before and 3 months after de-obstruction surgery (TURP). mRNA and protein profiles were correlated with urodynamic findings, specifically voiding detrusor pressure (PdetQmax) before TURP. We delineated the molecular classifiers of each group, pointing at the different pre-TURP bladder status.

Results

Age-matched patients with BPO without DO were divided into two groups based on the PdetQmax values recorded by UDI before de-obstruction: high and medium pressure (HP and MP) groups. Three months after de-obstruction surgery, the voiding parameters PdetQmax, Qmax and RV were significantly improved in both groups, without notable inter-group differences in the values after TURP. Patients with high PdetQmax showed less advanced remodeling and inflammatory changes than those with lower values. We detected significant dysregulation of gene expression, which was at least partially reversed by de-obstruction in both patients’ groups. Transcription factor SOX21 and its target thrombospondin 4 (THBS4) demonstrated normalization post-TURP.

Conclusions

Our findings reveal substantial yet incomplete reversal of cell signalling pathways three months after TURP, consistent with improved urodynamic parameters. We propose a set of biomarker genes, indicative of BPO, and possibly contributing to the bladder changes. This study unveils the stages of progressive obstruction-induced bladder decompensation and offers insights into selecting an optimal intervention point to mitigate loss of contractility.
Betulinic and ursolic acids from Nauclea latifolia roots mediate their antimalarial activities through docking with PfEMP-1 and PfPKG proteins
Authors: Asanga Edet Effiong , Ekpo Ndifreke Daniel , Edeke Affiong Asuquo , Ekeleme Chinedum Martins , Okoroiwu Henshaw Uchechi , Edet Uwem Okon , Umoh Ekementeabasi A. , Umoaffia Nikita Elkanah , Eseyin Olorunfemi Abraham , Nkang Ani , Akpanabiatu Monday , Okokon Jude Efiom , Akpotuzor Sylvia , Effiong Bright Asuquo , Ettaba MacGeorge
Published: February 2024

Background

Chemotherapies target the PfEMP-1 and PfPKG proteins in Plasmodium falciparum, the parasite that causes malaria, in an effort to prevent the disease’s high fatality rate. This work identified the phytochemical components of Nauclea latifolia roots and docked the chemical compounds against target proteins, and examined the in vivo antiplasmodial effect of the roots on Plasmodium berghei-infected mice.

Methods

Standard protocols were followed for the collection of the plant’s roots, cleaning, and drying of the roots, extraction and fraction preparation, assessment of the in vivo antiplasmodial activity, retrieval of the PfEMP-1 and PfPKG proteins, GCMS, ADME, and docking studies, chromatographic techniques were employed to separate the residual fraction’s components, and the Swis-ADME program made it possible to estimate the drug’s likeness and pharmacokinetic properties. The Auto Dock Vina 4.2 tool was utilized for molecular docking analysis.

Results

The residual fraction showed the best therapeutic response when compared favorably to amodiaquine (80.5%) and artesunate (85.1%). It also considerably reduced the number of parasites, with the % growth inhibition of the parasite at 42.8% (D2) and 83.4% (D5). Following purification, 25 compounds were isolated and characterized with GCMS. Based on their low molecular weights, non-permeation of the blood–brain barrier, non-inhibition of metabolizing enzymes, and non-violation of Lipinski’s criteria, betulinic and ursolic acids were superior to chloroquine as the best phytochemicals. Hence, they are lead compounds.

Conclusion

In addition to identifying the bioactive compounds, ADME, and docking data of the lead compounds as candidates for rational drug design processes as observed against Plasmodium falciparum target proteins (PfEMP-1 and PfPKG), which are implicated in the pathogenesis of malaria, the study has validated that the residual fraction of N. latifolia roots has the best antiplasmodial therapeutic index.
A comparison of rapid cycle deliberate practice and traditional reflective debriefing on interprofessional team performance
Authors: Colman Nora , Wiltrakis Susan M. , Holmes Sherita , Hwu Ruth , Iyer Srikant , Goodwin Nandranie , Mathai Claire , Gillespie Scott , Hebbar Kiran B.
Published: February 2024

Background

In simulation-based education, debriefing is necessary to promote knowledge acquisition and skill application. Rapid Cycle Deliberate Practice (RCDP) and Traditional Reflective Debriefing (TRD) are based in learning theories of deliberate practice and reflective learning, respectively. In this study, we compared the effectiveness of TRD versus RCDP on acquisition of conceptual knowledge and teamwork skills among interdisciplinary learners in the pediatric emergency department.

Methods

One hundred sixty-four learners including emergency department attending physicians, fellows, nurses, medical technicians, paramedics, and respiratory therapists, participated in 28 in-situ simulation workshops over 2 months. Groups were quasi-randomized to receive RCDP or TRD debriefing. Learners completed a multiple-choice test to assess teamwork knowledge. The TEAM Assessment Tool assessed team performance before and after debriefing. Primary outcomes were teamwork knowledge and team performance.

Results

Average pre-intervention baseline knowledge assessment scores were high in both groups (TRD mean 90.5 (SD 12.7), RCDP mean 88.7 (SD 15.5). Post-test scores showed small improvements in both groups (TRD mean 93.2 (SD 12.2), RCDP mean 89.9 (SD 13.8), as indicated by effect sizes (ES = 0.21 and 0.09, for TRD and RCDP, respectively). Assessment of team performance demonstrated a significant improvement in mean scores from pre-assessment to post-assessment for all TEAM Assessment skills in both TRD and RCDP arms, based on p-values (all p < 0.01) and effect sizes (all ES > 0.8). While pre-post improvements in TEAM scores were generally higher in the RCDP group based on effect sizes, analysis did not indicate either debriefing approach as meaningfully improved over the other.

Conclusions

Our study did not demonstrate that either TRD versus RCDP was meaningfully better in teamwork knowledge acquisition or improving skill application and performance. As such, we propose Reflective Deliberate Practice as a framework for future study to allow learners to reflect on learning and practice in action.
Association between cardiometabolic index and controlled attenuation parameter in U.S. adults with NAFLD: findings from NHANES (2017–2020)
Authors: Xi Wen-feng , Yang Ai-ming
Published: February 2024

Background

Cardiometabolic index (CMI), a novel indicator that combines abdominal obesity and lipid levels, has been confirmed to correlate with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, limited research has been conducted on the relationship between CMI and controlled attenuation parameter (CAP), a parameter measured by transient elastography and reflecting the extent of fat accumulation in the liver. The objective of our study was to investigate the relationship between the two variables.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study with a sample size of 1,759 U.S. adults with NAFLD sourced from the NHANES 2017–2020. Participants with a median CAP ≥ 248 dB/m were considered to have hepatic steatosis. CMI was calculated as [waist circumference (cm)/height(cm)]×[TG (mmol/L)/HDL-C (mmol/L)]. Multivariate linear regression, generalized additive model and subgroup analysis were employed to examine the association of CMI and CAP.

Results

The average age of the 1,759 participants was 50.2 years, with males accounting for 50.76% and females 49.24%. The average BMI was 32.23 kg/m². The multivariate linear regression model indicated that with every 1-unit increase in CMI, there was an associated rise of 10.40 dB/m in CAP (95% CI, 7.14–13.67) after adjusting for covariates and a p for trend < 0.05 suggested the existence of a linear association between the two variables. Similarly, generalized additive model also found it a roughly linear relationship between the two. Subgroup analysis revealed a positive correlation in the majority of subgroups.

Conclusions

CMI was positively associated with CAP in U.S. adults with NAFLD. Our findings indicated that CMI may serve as an ideal indicator for monitoring the degree of hepatic steatosis among patients with NAFLD.
The association between remnant cholesterol and rheumatoid arthritis: insights from a large population study
Authors: Yan Yuxin , La Rui , Jiang Ming , Xu Wu , Jiang Dinghua , Wang Shenghao , Huang Lixin , Wu Qian
Published: February 2024

Objectives

While lipid metabolism disorder is widely acknowledged as a contributing factor to inflammation, the association between remnant cholesterol (RC), which indicates lipid metabolism, and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has not been investigated. Accordingly, this study evaluated whether RC is associated with RA disease events.

Methods

Data were collected and specifically extracted from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1999–2008 database. The RC value was derived by subtracting the combined amount of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) from the total cholesterol (TC). The association between RC and RA was evaluated using multivariate regression analysis and subgroup analysis.

Results

The study analyzed 7777 patients, of which 581 patients (7.47%) were diagnosed with RA. After accounting for different covariates, the multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed a notable correlation between increased RC levels and an increased likelihood of RA (odds ratio OR = 1.54; 95% confidence interval CI: 1.11–2.13; P = 0.0092). The interaction test did not yield statistically significant effects on this association. The linear correlation between RC and RA was observed within restricted cubic spline regression model limitations.

Conclusion

The results suggest that higher RC levels are associated with increased odds of RA, indicating that RC can serve as a novel and convenient index for forecasting the likelihood of RA in the United States. Additionally, these findings offer insights into early intervention strategies for susceptible populations at risk of developing RA.
Dosimetric evaluation of LINAC-based single-isocenter multi-target multi-fraction stereotactic radiosurgery with more than 20 targets: comparing MME, HyperArc, and RapidArc
Authors: Jung Hyunuk , Yoon Jihyung , Dona Lemus Olga , Tanny Sean , Zhou Yuwei , Milano Michael , Usuki Kenneth , Hardy Sara , Zheng Dandan
Published: February 2024

Background

To compare the dosimetric quality of three widely used techniques for LINAC-based single-isocenter multi-target multi-fraction stereotactic radiosurgery (fSRS) with more than 20 targets: dynamic conformal arc (DCA) in BrainLAB Multiple Metastases Elements (MME) module and volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) using RapidArc (RA) and HyperArc (HA) in Varian Eclipse.

Methods

Ten patients who received single-isocenter fSRS with 20–37 targets were retrospectively replanned using MME, RA, and HA. Various dosimetric parameters, such as conformity index (CI), Paddick CI, gradient index (GI), normal brain dose exposures, maximum organ-at-risk (OAR) doses, and beam-on times were extracted and compared among the three techniques. Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used for statistical analysis.

Results

All plans achieved the prescribed dose coverage goal of at least 95% of the planning target volume (PTV). HA plans showed superior conformity compared to RA and MME plans. MME plans showed superior GI compared to RA and HA plans. RA plans resulted in significantly higher low and intermediate dose exposure to normal brain compared to HA and MME plans, especially for lower doses of ≥ 8Gy and ≥ 5Gy. No significant differences were observed in the maximum dose to OARs among the three techniques. The beam-on time of MME plans was about two times longer than RA and HA plans.

Conclusions

HA plans achieved the best conformity, while MME plans achieved the best dose fall-off for LINAC-based single-isocenter multi-target multi-fraction SRS with more than 20 targets. The choice of the optimal technique should consider the trade-offs between dosimetric quality, beam-on time, and planning effort.
Transbronchial lymph node forceps biopsy as a novel tool in diagnosis of mediastinal lymphadenopathy: a pilot study
Authors: Al-Halfawy Ahmed , Hussein Sabah , Ashur Wafaa , El-Hendawi Ali , Hussein Sara
Published: February 2024

Background

Differential diagnosis of mediastinal lymphadenopathy is an issue of debate. Lymph nodes may be enlarged due to a variety of inflammatory, infectious, or malignant reasons. Therefore, obtaining samples from the affected nodes is crucial for the diagnosis. Usually, these patients are subjected to TBNA (EBUS or conventional) or mediastinoscopy if TBNA is not conclusive. This study evaluated the safety and feasibility of this new technique of transbronchial forceps biopsy for the diagnosis of mediastinal lymphadenopathy.

Methods

The study included 18 patients with confirmed mediastinal lymphadenopathy who were admitted in Chest Department, Cairo University in the period from December 2019 to December 2020. All patients were subjected to flexible bronchoscopy with conventional transbronchial needle aspiration (C-TBNA) and transbronchial forceps biopsy (LN-TBFB) from the enlarged mediastinal lymph node in the same procedure.

Results

we found the technique of LN-TBFB safe with no serious complications. We were able to reach a diagnosis in 7/7 (100%) cases of sarcoidosis, 6/7 (85.7%) cases of malignant lymph nodes. We had three cases where the histopathology showed hyperactive follicular hyperplasia, and a single case of tuberculous lymphadenitis. C-TBNA was diagnostic in 71.4% of sarcoidosis cases, 42.9% of malignant cases, but failed to diagnose the one patient with tuberculous lymphadenitis.

Conclusion

Lymph node transbronchial forceps biopsy (LN-TBFB) was found to be safe and effective in the diagnosis of mediastinal lymphadenopathy. We strongly advocate the use of this minimally invasive technique for diagnosing pathologically enlarged mediastinal lymph nodes, as a last step before mediastinoscopy.
Ontologies4Cat: investigating the landscape of ontologies for catalysis research data management
Authors: Behr Alexander S. , Borgelt Hendrik , Kockmann Norbert
Published: February 2024

As scientific digitization advances it is imperative ensuring data is Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable (FAIR) for machine-processable data. Ontologies play a vital role in enhancing data FAIRness by explicitly representing knowledge in a machine-understandable format. Research data in catalysis research often exhibits complexity and diversity, necessitating a respectively broad collection of ontologies. While ontology portals such as EBI OLS and BioPortal aid in ontology discovery, they lack deep classification, while quality metrics for ontology reusability and domains are absent for the domain of catalysis research. Thus, this work provides an approach for systematic collection of ontology metadata with focus on the catalysis research data value chain. By classifying ontologies by subdomains of catalysis research, the approach is offering efficient comparison across ontologies. Furthermore, a workflow and codebase is presented, facilitating representation of the metadata on GitHub. Finally, a method is presented to automatically map the classes contained in the ontologies of the metadata collection against each other, providing further insights on relatedness of the ontologies listed. The presented methodology is designed for its reusability, enabling its adaptation to other ontology collections or domains of knowledge. The ontology metadata taken up for this work and the code developed and described in this work are available in a GitHub repository at: https://github.com/nfdi4cat/Ontology-Overview-of-NFDI4Cat.
Spherization indices measured by resting SPECT improve risk stratification in patients with ischemia with non-obstructive coronary artery disease (INOCA)
Authors: Zhao Yuting , Hu Yingqi , Li Yuanyuan , Wang Yanhui , Xiao Yuxin , Xu Li , Ren Tailin , Wu Qiuyan , Wang Ruonan , Wu Zhifang , Li Sijin , Wu Ping
Published: February 2024

Background

The prevalence of ischemia with non-obstructive coronary artery disease (INOCA) is substantial, but its risk stratification has been suboptimal. Resting SPECT myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) could provide useful heart information including spherical indices. We aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of spherical indices in individuals with INOCA.

Results

During a median follow-up of 47.2 ± 20.8 months, 49 (17.2%) patients experienced major adverse cardiac events (MACE). Compared to those without MACE, those with MACE had a higher shape index (SI) (0.60 ± 0.07 vs. 0.58 ± 0.06; P = 0.028) and a lower E2 (eccentricity index calculated by the QPS) (0.81 ± 0.05 vs. 0.83 ± 0.04; P = 0.019). MACE event-free survival analysis revealed significant differences in the SI and E2 among all patients (all log-rank P < 0.01). Multivariate Cox analysis showed abnormal SI (HR: 2.73, 95% CI 1.44–5.18, P = 0.002) and E2 (HR: 1.94, 95% CI 1.08–3.48, P = 0.026) were both independent predictors for MACE when they were put into the same model, respectively. The incorporation of the SI into the baseline model demonstrated a significant improvement in the predictive accuracy for MACEs (P = 0.026), whereas E2 did not exhibit a similar improvement (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

For patients with INOCA, spherical indices (especially the SI) were associated with long-term MACE, which could be a preferable indicator for risk stratification and prognostic prediction.