bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of the Oxygenated Monoterpene Linalool in Alleviating Saline Stress Effects on Allium cepa L
Authors: Silva Jailson Renato de Lima , Santos Larisse Bernardino dos , Hassan Waseem , Kamdem Jean Paul , Duarte Antonia Eliene , Soufan Walid , Sabagh Ayman El , Ibrahim Mohammad 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Sodium chloride (NaCl) can cause oxidative stress in plants, which represents a potential obstacle to the development of monocultures worldwide. Onion (Allium cepaL.) is a famous vegetable consumed and used in world cuisine. In the present study, we analyzed the influence of soil physicochemical profile and the remedial capacity of linalool on seed emergence, roots and leaf growth in onions subjected to salt stress, as well as itsin vivoandin vitroantioxidant potential, Fe2 + chelating activity and reducing power of Fe3+. The result of the soil analysis provided the relationship: S > Ca > K > Mg > Na. NaCl (150 mM) significantly reduced the Emergence Speed Index (ESI), leaf and root length, while increasing the peroxidation content. The length of leaves and roots significantly increased after treatment with linalool (300 and 500 µg/ml). Our data showed negative correlations between seed emergence and K + concentration, which was reversed after treatments. Linalool (500 µg/mL) significantly reduced oxidative stress, but increased Fe2 + concentration and did not show potential to reduce Fe3+. The in vivo antioxidant effect of linalool is thought to primarily result from an enzymatic activation process. This mechanism underscores its potential as a therapeutic agent for oxidative stress-related conditions. Further investigation into this process could unveil new avenues for antioxidant therapy.
Understanding what aspects of Parkinson’s Disease matter most to patients and families
Authors: Mammen Jennifer , Tyo Mirinda , Cadorette Joyce , Adams Jamie , Xiao Yuge , Stephenson Diane , Bale Claire 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background: Understanding what matters to people with Parkinson’s (PwP) and their family is essential to derive relevant clinical outcome measures and guide clinical care.
Objectives: To explore what is important to PwP vs. family over time.
Methods: A qualitative content-analysis of online survey data was conducted to identify types and frequencies of important symptoms and impacts of Parkinson's for PwP vs. family. Independent T-tests were used to identify significant between group differences for PwP vs. family at <2, 2-5, 6-10, 11-20, >20-year durations. ANOVA was used to assess for within group differences by disease duration.
Results: Symptom priority changed over time with disease duration for both groups. PwP identified movement-related symptoms (walking, bradykinesia) as the most bothersome at all durations (n=677), while family (n=103) more strongly prioritized physical and psychosocial impacts (e.g., mobility, safety, interpersonal interactions, independence, and family impact).
Conclusions: Important differences may exist between family and patient perspectives of what matters.
Key technology and application of surface well drainage of coalbed methane in mining area of high gas mine
Authors: Fu Junfui , Wen Guangcai , Zhang Bichuan , Sun Haitao , Li Rifu , Liu Jiaqi 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

The coalbed methane drainage with surface well, under the mining effects in a high gas coal mine has become increasingly important, especially for a complex region for the coalbed methane drainage. In contrast, due to the effects of coal mining, the surface wells are prone to deformation and damage. In this paper, a displacement and deformation model for the overlying strata was established. Three forms of deformation and failure of the surface well casing were proposed, such as shearing, stretching and uneven extrusion. Moreover, the mathematical model functions of “S” - type shear deformation, delamination tensile deformation and non-uniform extrusion for the surface well were established. In the ShanXi Coal Group YueCheng Mine, on the mining affected area surface well the coalbed methane drainage practice was conducted, producing a good coalbed methane drainage effect. YCCD-04 well without local protective device was deformed and damaged, and the dynamic deformation and failure process of surface well was detected by well imager; YCCD-02 well with local protective device has experienced mining and gas drainage effect is good, which verifies the effectiveness of local protective device. The YCCD-02 well coalbed methane drainage was 35 months in duration and the cumulative extraction of coalbed methane drainage volume was 1.3×107 m3. Simultaneously, the problem of gas control in the working face was solved, to ensure the safety of coal mining, achieving good social and economic effects.
Weak sectors and weak ties? Labour dependence and asymmetric positioning in GVCs
Authors: Cresti Lorenzo , Virgillito Maria Enrica 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Focusing on labour requirements incorporated into GVCs, in the following, we develop a novel, non conventional measure of learning capabilities, represented by knowledge embodied along the division of labour within global production networks. In order to capture the division of labour, and the ensuing division of embodied knowledge, we move from monetary flows of production, or value-added embodied, to labour embodied in the I-O linkages. We focus on mature economies as offshoring has been particularly in place there. After constructing a new indicator ofBilateral Net Labour Dependence, we estimate its relationship with a measure of performance of industries, namely, labour productivity, seeking to challenge the established findings generally reporting a positive effect of GVCs participation for sector-level productivity. Our conjecture is that being in a weak position in terms of (net) labour provision results in an overall weakening of the capabilities of the loosing productive structure. We corroborate the conjecture with a panel analysis of OECD countries and industries for the time period 2000–2014.JEL classification codes: F16, F6, J24, L6, O14
Does preoperative sarcopenia in esophageal cancer affect short-term outcomes in patients with esophageal cancer?
Authors: Katayama Yoshimi , Noma Kazuhiro , Hamada Masanori , Senda Masuo , Ozaki Toshifumi 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Sarcopenia is a condition in which muscle mass decreases with age. With the aging of society, the number of cancer cases is increasing, as is the number of sarcopenia cases. Many studies have investigated the relationship between sarcopenia and postoperative survival in patients with cancer; however, the diagnostic criteria for sarcopenia varied among the studies. Using the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS) 2019 criteria to diagnose sarcopenia, this study investigated the impact of preoperative sarcopenia on the short-term outcomes of patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC).
Methods
Ninety-two Japanese patients (73 men and 19 women) with ESCC who underwent radical esophagectomy were retrospectively reviewed. The association between sarcopenia and demographic, nutritional, and clinicopathologic factors was investigated. Survival was assessed via Kaplan–Meier analysis, and factors affecting overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival were identified via regression analysis.
Results
Patients with preoperative sarcopenia (n = 11) had a significantly lower body mass index and lost more blood during surgery than did patients without sarcopenia (n = 81). Age, sex, respiratory function, and nutritional status were not associated with sarcopenia. Recurrence rates did not differ between patients with vs. without sarcopenia, whereas deaths were significantly more frequent in patients with sarcopenia. Sarcopenia and higher pathological stage independently predicted worse OS.
Conclusions
Preoperative sarcopenia diagnosed according to the AWGS 2019 criteria negatively influences short-term outcomes in patients with ESCC.
Measuring and Mismeasuring Income Polarization
Authors: Hoffmann Rodolfo , Kassouf Ana Lucia 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

The main contribution of this paper is to clarify some of the misconceptions about income polarization indices observed in the existing literature. Our analysis explores the domain of measures of polarization of the income distribution, with a specific emphasis on elucidating the importance of distinguishing between bipolarization and multipolarization measures. Additionally, we assert that a valid polarization metric must satisfy the principle of scale-invariance. Furthermore, in cases where the income distribution is categorized into relatively poor and relatively rich, a valid bipolarization measure should consistently increase when regressive transfers occur from poorer to richer individuals and when progressive transfers occur between two poorer or two richer individuals. The study identifies instances where bipolarization measures that fail to satisfy these criteria have been employed in previous research, leading to erroneous conclusions. The research also provides a succinct analysis of the challenges faced by scholars in employing Esteban and Ray’s multipolarization measure and its adapted versions. The study pinpoints errors in previously published works, particularly in those using the Median Relative Polarization measure with an additive median adjustment. Additionally, a real-world illustration is presented that depicts a declining trend of the bipolarization of income distribution in Brazil from 2001 to 2015, coinciding with a decrease in inequality during this period.
A qualitative, theory-based exploration of facilitators and barriers for implementation of pharmacist prescribing in chronic kidney disease
Authors: Raisi Fatma Ali Al , Cunningham Scott , Stewart Derek 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background

While there is an accumulation of evidence that pharmacist prescribing is safe and effective, there is a lack of research on processes of implementation into practice, particularly for patients with complex clinical conditions such as chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Aim

The aim was to explore the facilitators and barriers to the implementation of pharmacist prescribing for patients with CKD in the United Kingdom (UK).

Method

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with UK Renal Pharmacy Group members who were independent prescribers. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) underpinned the interview schedule. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and independently coded by two researchers. A thematic approach was used for analysis, with data generation continuing until saturation of themes. Ethical approval was granted.

Results

Data saturation was achieved following 14 interviews. Most interviewees were female (n=11), all had secondary care as their main practice setting, and were highly experienced prescribers with 8 having 11 or more years of prescribing practice. Interviewees were positive regarding the development of their prescribing practice. Facilitators and barriers emerged across all 5 of the CFIR domains. Key facilitators were aspects of inner setting (e.g., organisational support and communication) while key barriers were also related to inner setting, specifically the need for adequate structural and financial resources.

Conclusion

This theory-based study has illuminated the facilitators and barriers for the implementation of pharmacist prescribing in CKD. There is a need to consider the resources required for implementation of prescribing practice at an early stage of planning and development.
ICU admission preferences in the hypothetical event of acute critical illness: A survey of very old Norwegians and their next-of-kins
Authors: Schwarz Gabriele Leonie , Skaar Elisabeth , Miljeteig Ingrid , Hufthammer Karl Ove , Burns Karen E.A. , Kvåle Reidar , Flaatten Hans , Schaufel Margrethe Aase 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Purpose
We aimed to explore older patients’ intensive care unit (ICU) admission preferences and their next-of-kins’ ability to predict these preferences.
Methods
We conducted a self-administered survey of a purposive sample of outpatients ≥ 80 years regarded as potential ICU candidates, and of their next-of-kins. We asked about the patients’ ICU admission preferences in three hypothetical scenarios of acute critical illness. Next-of-kin respondents were asked to make a proxy statement of the older respondent’s wishes regarding ICU admission. For each treatment choice, all respondents could provide their level of confidence. Additionally, we sought to identify demographic and healthcare-related characteristics that potentially influenced ICU admission preferences and proxy accuracy.
Results
Of 202 outpatients ≥ 80 years, equal proportions opted for (39%, CI 33–45%) and against (40%, CI 34–46%) ICU admission, and one in five (21%, CI 17–26%) did not wish to engage decision-making. Male gender, religiosity, and prior ICU experience increased the likelihood of older respondents opting for ICU admission. Although next-of-kins’ proxy statements had only weak agreement with the older respondents ICU admission preferences (52%, CI 45–59%), they significantly agreed with the next-of-kins’ own ICU admission preferences (79%, CI 73–84%). Decisional confidence was high for both older and the next-of-kin respondents.
Conclusion
There was substantial variation in the ICU admission preferences of very old patients. Although next-of-kins’ proxy statements regarding ICU admission preferences only weakly agreed with those of the older respondents, next-of-kins’ and older respondents’ confidence levels in rendering these judgments were high.
Rapid assessment of pre-service midwifery education in conflict settings: Findings from a cross-sectional study in Nigeria and Somalia
Authors: Iwu Emilia , Elnakib Shatha , Abdullahi Hawa , Abimiku Rejoice Helma , Maina Charity , Mohamed Asia , Ayodeji Kazeem Olalekan , Odonye George , Sunday Rifkatu , Grant Emilie , Tappis Hannah 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background: There is a dearth of evidence on the scale, scope and quality of midwifery education programs in conflict-affected settings. This study sought to assess the extent to which midwifery pre-service education programs meet national and global standards, and to explore how conflict affects pre-service midwifery education in Yobe State Nigeria and the Benadir and Galgaduud regions of Somalia.
Methods: A rapid assessment of midwifery education programs was conducted in the two midwifery education programs in Yobe State, Nigeria and in seven purposively selected programs in Somalia using an adaptation of the Midwifery Education Rapid Assessment Tool.Information was collected through interviews with program leadership, teachers, students, and clinical preceptors during school and clinical practice site visits. Researchers adapted the tool to reflect national and international standards, incorporating supplementary questions to capture considerations specific to conflict-affected contexts. Data were analyzed by program and country using Stata and Excel.
Results: In Nigeria, each school met 17 and 18 standards, respectively, out of 22 across assessment domains (77.3% - 81.8%). In contrast, in Somalia, schools met between 6 to 10 standards out of the 18 standards for which data was available (33.3% - 55.6%). The biggest gaps in Somalia were in leadership, infrastructure and resources. No schools in either setting had sufficient space or clinical practice sites that met International Confederation of Midwives (ICM) criteria, and only two were led by midwives. In Nigeria, all infrastructure, curriculum and student- and regulatory-related standards examined were met, but gaps were identified in program staffing and preceptor capacity, and support for faculty and clinical practice-sites. In both countries, none of the programs met the average number of clinical practice experiences stipulated in the ICM guidelines due to a lack of teaching hospitals. Students in both countries felt safe on campus but did not feel safe traveling to and from the schools and clinical practice sites.
Conclusions:More investment in midwifery education is needed to ensure international standards for quality education are met. Proactive measures are needed to enhance student safety between school and practice settings in conflict-affected settings. By addressing these gaps, we can strive toward improving midwifery education.
Associations Between Body Mass Index and All-Cause Mortality Among Individuals with Psoriasis: Results from the NHANES database retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wei ZhiHong , Nie GuanHua , Sadik Christian D , Shan Dan 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background
Previous findings imply a potential positive association between BMI and all-cause mortality in individuals with psoriasis, yet direct evidence remains absent. This study aimed to fill this gap.
Methods
We utilized data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) for the periods 2003–2006 and 2009–2014. Participants' BMI was categorized as lean (< 25), overweight (25 ≤ BMI < 30), and obese (BMI ≥ 30). Psoriasis status was determined through self-reporting. The main outcome measured was all-cause mortality up to December 2019. We accounted for multiple covariates, such as sociodemographic factors and histories of smoking and alcohol consumption. Our statistical analyses mainly included Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, Restricted Cubic Spline (RCS) and Multivariate Cox Regression (MCR). We also applied propensity score matching (PSM) to verify the robustness of our findings.
Results
Among 22,876 participants, 618 (2.70%) reported a history of psoriasis. An overall effect from the MCR analysis showed that, among individuals with psoriasis, a higher baseline BMI was independently associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality, noting a 5.5% rise in mortality risk per BMI unit [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.055, 95% CI: 1.004–1.110, p = 0.035]. This significant relationship persisted after PSM. A statistically significant positive correlation was consistent among males, smokers, and individuals younger than 60. However, no such association was found in individuals without a history of psoriasis. Additionally, no significant difference in mortality risk was found between lean and overweight groups with psoriasis, according to the RCS regression and stratified analysis.
Conclusions
Our findings indicated a trend that, higher BMIs significantly correlated with increased risks of all-cause mortality in people with psoriasis, particularly among obese ones. However, the impact of being overweight on this relationship remains underexplored. Moreover, the necessity to employ alternative metrics beyond BMI for body fat assessment to further investigate these associations is critical.
Electrochemical characterization of Cu film fabricated via wire arc additive manufacturing in oxic groundwater
Authors: Kim Gha-Young , Jang Junhyuk , Woo Jeong-Hyun , Jung Yang-Il , Lee Young-Ho , Yoon Seok 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
We investigated the electrochemical corrosion behavior of Cu films fabricated using wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) as a candidate canister material for deep geological disposal (DGD). The investigation was conducted in an oxic groundwater solution. The initial corrosion potential and corrosion current density of the WAAM-Cu film obtained from potentiodynamic measurements were similar to those of conventionally fabricated Cu (forged Cu) in oxic groundwater, regardless of the addition of chloride ions. To investigate the long-term corrosion behavior, WAAM-Cu was immersed in a chloride-added oxic groundwater environment for 120 d, and open-circuit potential and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements were performed at specific time intervals. The total polarization resistance of the WAAM-Cu was lower than that of the forged Cu; this was possibly due to the difference in the structural properties of the copper oxide layer formed on the surface. Surface analysis revealed that general corrosion occurred on the WAAM-Cu; however, the surface roughness was higher than that of forged Cu. Moreover, delamination of the corroded layer of the WAAM-Cu was observed. To ensure corrosion resistance and long-term stability in the context of DGD repository conditions, further research is necessary to optimize the WAAM technique for the fabrication of Cu films.
CD133 expression is associated with less DNA repair, better response to chemotherapy and survival in ER-positive/HER2-negative breast cancer
Authors: Sato Takumi , Oshi Masanori , Huang Jing Li , Chida Kohei , Roy Arya Mariam , Endo Itaru , Takabe Kazuaki 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Purpose: CD133, a cancer stem cells (CSC) marker, has been reported to be associated with treatment resistance and worse survival in triple-negative breast cancer (BC). However, the clinical relevance of CD133 expression in ER-positive/HER2-negative (ER+/HER2-) BC, the most abundant subtype, remains unknown.
Methods: The BC cohorts from the Molecular Taxonomy of Breast Cancer International Consortium (METABRIC, n = 1904) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA, n = 1065) were used to obtain biological variables and gene expression data.
Results: Epithelial cells were the exclusive source of CD133 gene expression in a bulk BC. CD133-high ER+/HER2- BC was associated with CD24, NOTCH1, DLL1, and ALDH1A1 gene expressions, as well as with WNT/β-Catenin, Hedgehog, and Notchsignaling pathways, all characteristic for CSC. Consistent with a CSC phenotype, CD133-low BC was enriched with gene sets related to cell proliferation, such as G2M Checkpoint, MYC Targets V1, E2F Targets, and Ki67 gene expression. CD133-low BC was also linked with enrichment of genes related to DNA repair, such as BRCA1, E2F1, E2F4, CDK1/2. On the other hand, CD133-high tumors had proinflammatory microenvironment, higher activity of immune cells, and higher expression of genes related to inflammation and immune response. Finally, CD133-high tumors had better pathological complete response after neoadjuvant chemotherapy in GSE25066 cohort and better disease-free survival and overall survival in both TCGA and METABRIC cohorts.
Conclusion: CD133-high ER+/HER2- BC was associated with CSC phenotype such as less cell proliferation and DNA repair, but also with enhanced inflammation, better response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy and better prognosis.